{Chapter 2} The Mastermind Makes the Strong Tremble Without Lifting a Finger...
I love beautiful things. More specifically, I love myself. Because I am beautiful. You wouldn't find a man this handsome no matter how hard you searched the world. And it wasn't just my face; my physical beauty was also magnificent!
"But the sword is even more beautiful."
I spent my days being healed by the sight of my own reflection in the mirror. However, being satisfied with just looking was something that ended when I was fifteen. That was the day I encountered it—the sword, and its techniques.
At a martial arts tournament held in the royal capital, I saw the techniques of the ninth-generation Sword Saint and was captivated. Because it was more beautiful and refined than anything else. I couldn't allow something more beautiful than myself to exist. I had to reach that level, no matter what. From that day on, I took up the sword and continued to hone my skills.
"To think I would obtain the position of the tenth generation... Life really does go exactly as planned."
The world praised me as a genius. Even the ninth-generation Sword Saint admitted that my techniques surpassed his own. I had overtaken him in just four years. I only sought beauty, and I didn't care about strength. But as a result, I’d obtained combat ability equal to the Hero.
"Heh. As expected of me."
I swung my sword in front of the mirror again today. Naked, while admiring my own face and physical beauty. This sight contained all the beauty in the world. it was the best.
I’d purchased the mansion I was currently living in with the prize money from the martial arts tournament. I was satisfied with its beautiful design. I’d chosen this city as my home because the prices were low. The reason was likely that people were leaving due to the epidemic.
The Sword Saint inherits a special sword along with the title. That sword is unique, granting its wielder resistance to disease and poison. Therefore, I had no worries about living in this city.
"Right, that’s enough training for today."
I got dressed. I had to show my face at the guild today. Apparently, the Guildmaster had summoned me, though the reason was unknown. Had a powerful magical beast appeared? He probably wanted to personally request a job from me, an S-rank adventurer.
"Everything is going so smoothly it’s almost scary."
I was well aware that I was a chosen individual. I was born more beautiful than anyone else, and I’d continued to polish myself without compromise. It was only natural that I was special. My sword techniques were just a part of that.
"Hmm...?"
As I left my home and walked through the city, I felt eyes on me. It was natural for people to stare at this beautiful face, but something felt different today.
"What is it?"
I felt a sense of wariness from the people I passed. I didn't think there was any reason to be wary of the Sword Saint. In fact, since I was the highest-ranking adventurer protecting this city, it would be normal for them to feel relieved.
"Good morning. I am passing through. Come, rejoice!"
"I’ve already told the Guildmaster about what we talked about yesterday."
"...?"
When I entered the adventurer’s guild, a C-rank adventurer spoke to me. We weren't even that close, but he spoke to me as if we’d shared a drink together. As we were talking, the Guildmaster walked toward me. He was old, but he was still as strong as a lower-tier S-rank adventurer. His presence was different.
"Sword Saint—Nar Systria. I’m grateful you came. It was a matter that I needed to confirm as well, so I summoned you."
"If the Guildmaster says so, I shall listen."
"What are you saying? You’re the one who’s going to be doing the talking, Sword Saint. I must say, I was surprised."
"...?"
Honestly, I had no idea what he was talking about.
I only came because the Guild Master summoned me. Why was he acting like it was a given that I had something to say? He was looking at me as if I’d just caused a massive incident and he was waiting for my report.
"Nar Systria. Is this Emo Sugiru really an existence worthy of a Sword Saint’s service?"
"Who’s that?"
The question slipped out in my natural tone before I could stop it. Seriously, who the hell was that?
"He is a wanted criminal, but the Guild does not judge based on standards of good and evil. Strength, and whether one can generate profit—that is everything. As a Sword Saint, you surely know we are a power independent of the state."
"Yeah..."
The Adventurer’s Guild didn't belong to any nation. It was a completely independent organization. Even if you were wanted by a country, you could still register. However, that only meant you could take jobs; it didn't mean they would protect you. The moment your identity was revealed by the adventurer card you presented to enter a city, you’d likely be detained. Living like that wasn't realistic.
"Therefore, there is no need to hide it. Even if the Sword Saint is a subordinate of Emo Sugiru, the Guild will not interfere. This is merely a personal confirmation."
"No, no, no, wait a minute."
I didn't know anyone by the name of Emo Sugiru. I certainly didn't remember becoming anyone's subordinate. He was questioning me as if it were an established fact.
"Guild Master, I’m not following. Do you really think this great me would become someone’s lackey?"
"But I heard you were boasting about it yourself?"
"Huh...?"
Was there a look-alike running around? No, he was being too persistent. There had to be a reason he was so certain.
"Hmm. It seems you have no intention of speaking."
"I’m the one who wants to ask... Who the hell is Emo Sugiru?"
"The mastermind plotting to overthrow the nation using the Demon King’s magic stone. Rumor has it he’s formed an organization with the remnants of the Demon King’s army. Are you not a member, Sir Sword Saint?"
"Absolutely not."
"Is that the truth? Can you swear it to the Gods?"
"I swear it on this beautiful face of mine."
"...I can't trust that at all."
The Guild Master looked dissatisfied. I really wasn't hiding anything. The fact was, I wasn't a subordinate of this Emo Sugiru guy. I had no intention of doing anything evil.
"If that’s all you needed, I’ll take my leave."
"Very well. Thank you for coming."
"Think nothing of—"
Think nothing of it. I intended to say that, but the words died in my throat. I felt a surge of monstrous mana. It was as if dozens of hopeless, overwhelming presences had suddenly appeared. What... what was happening?
"Guh!"
"Guild Master! Pull yourself together! Even you're affected...?"
The other adventurers in the guild hadn't noticed a thing. The scale of the mana was so far beyond them that they couldn't even perceive it. Had dozens of entities appeared that couldn't even be sensed unless you were an S-Rank adventurer?
The Guild Master was retching. Even among the A-Ranks, some seemed to be fighting back nausea. The stronger you were, the more this presence filled you with despair.
"What... what has come to this city?"
"This presence... It’s a Divine Spirit. Has an ancient existence been summoned?"
"What?"
Divine Spirits—a general term for higher-order beings. They were monsters that included angels, ancient dragons, and even gods. They were on a completely different level from mere spirits. They weren't the kind of things you could just call forth on a whim. I’d heard that even a single one required a national-level response to handle.
"There are dozens of those presences out there, you know?"
"Indeed. This city is beyond saving. I must devise a plan to let as many people escape as possible..."
This wasn't a matter of nations anymore. The world itself might be ending. It took several S-Rank adventurers just to potentially bring down one of those things, and there were only three S-Ranks in this city, including myself and the Guild Master.
"It’s impossible."
"...I suppose so."
"I’m not even sure if I’ll survive."
"Quite right. Adventurers have no obligation to protect the citizens. Choosing to save yourself would be the correct decision..."
"Hmph. Do you really think this great me would make such an un-beautiful choice?"
"As expected of the Sword Saint."
Even if it was only a few people, I would use this life to let the citizens escape. Until the Hero’s party rushed here from the Royal Capital, someone needed to lead the people while fighting off the Divine Spirits.
"Leave the leading to me. Sir Sword Saint, you deal with the Divine Spirits!"
"Understood."
The Guild Master would lead, and I would carve the path. Honestly, saving even a handful would be the limit. Even so, I wouldn't abandon hope.
"I’ll prove that the name of Sword Saint isn't just for show!"
＊
It was despair.
The sword I had inherited was shattered. They were in a different dimension entirely. My bleeding was severe. At this rate, I really might die. In fact, the Guild Master was already dead.
Several hours had passed since then... I couldn't count how many people had died.
"Damn it..."
I couldn't save them. I couldn't keep a single person alive. It was far beyond my expectations. If the summoned Divine Spirits had been something like Ancient Dragons, I could have handled them. I had that much pride.
But this was different. What had been unleashed upon this city were Seraphs.
"How many of them are there...?"
Even among Divine Spirits, they were top-tier, and Seraphs were in a class of their own. They were known as the most powerful entities next to the gods themselves. They weren't opponents you could actually fight. Even so, using my inherited sword, I had managed to slay two of them. It was a feat of legends.
"A feat of legends, and yet I saved no one."
It didn't feel like a feat. It wasn't impressive. It was a hideous conclusion.
During the battle, I realized something. These Divine Spirits were already under contract. They were being manipulated. It was hard to believe, but a human was commanding them.
"If I can just strike the caster..."
There was someone out there who commanded Divine Spirits like a Spirit User. I had to at least pass this information on. But the thought made me laugh. It was pointless.
"The Guild Master is dead. The other S-Rank adventurer is dead too."
Who was I supposed to tell? I was the only fighting force left in this city. It was a total annihilation. There weren't even any citizens left to save. Maybe some had escaped outside my field of vision, but I didn't know.
"What...?"
The Divine Spirits vanished. No, had the caster released them? The spirits rampaging through the city turned into particles of light and faded away.
"...Come to think of it, did the Hero’s party arrive? Did they kill the caster?"
Right, my goal had been to buy time. I had struggled to protect as many as possible until the strongest heroes of humanity arrived. In the end, I protected no one.
"Is that... the Hero?"
I had met the Hero once, long ago. When I participated in a martial arts tournament, I spoke with him while he was there as a spectator. He truly had the making of a hero. I had asked for a sparring match; it ended in a draw, but I felt like he had been holding back.
"Hey! What happened?! Pull yourself together!"
"..."
Walking through the rubble, I found the Hero’s party. Every single one of them was down. It was an unbelievable sight. No, it made sense. No matter how much of a hero you were, this is what happened when you faced those Divine Spirits. If they had killed the caster, it was nothing short of magnificent.
"...Sword Saint."
"Hero, did you kill the caster?"
The Hero looked at me with hollow eyes. He had no spirit left in him. He was conscious, but barely.
"No... that’s not it! We were too weak... we were nothing but toys."
"What are you talking about?"
The Hero was acting strange. Was his mind broken? I splashed a potion effective against status ailments on him. He must have been exhausted.
"We were just... let go..."
"What do you mean?"
"Hey, Sword Saint... do you think we’re strong? We’re weak. So incredibly weak. I don't even know why I'm fighting anymore. What should I do?"
"Are you... are you really that Hero...?"
He was like a different person. His heart was completely shattered. He was in total despair. Humanity’s hope, the champion, the strongest guardian—he had been transformed into something unrecognizable.
"Anyway, stand up."
"Yeah."
"You should carry your comrades and head for the Royal Capital."
"...I suppose so."
The Hero seemed to know something about the caster, and that needed to be reported to the country.
＊
A week had passed.
I arrived at the Royal Capital along with the Hero’s party. I headed straight for the Adventurer’s Guild. During the journey, I had heard stories about Emo Sugiru and the Hero Order. There was no doubt the world was in crisis. We needed to summon as many adventurers as possible. And they needed to be the cream of the crop.
The Hero’s party hadn't recovered from their fatigue, so we were operating separately for now.
"Hmm? Heh, a portrait?"
On the way to the guild, I saw a piece of paper stuck to a wall. Apparently, it was a drawing of me. The quality was quite high.
"The citizens who escaped that city must have praised me as a hero. I’m touched."
The struggle had been worth it. I felt a surge of joy, and for the first time in a while, a smile crossed my face.
"As expected of this great me, it’s a beautiful face. ...Wanted? Bounty?"
The paper was a wanted poster. It claimed I was a member of the Hero Order, that I had made naked women walk while I skipped along, and that I had ignored the cries of citizens for help.
"MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE?!"
＊
Supporting your favorites can sometimes make a person dangerous.
Even I would get angry if someone insulted the Hero. I’ve realized lately, though, that everyone in the Hero Supporters is a bit... extreme about it. It’s like they only see two kinds of people: fellow fans or enemies. They have zero tolerance for "different interpretations."
"Hey, Mr. Emo Sugiru? Could you say that one more time?"
"I said, I don't think I need you."
"..."
I gave him my refusal. In the underground hideout the Masked Demon General had prepared, a man was kneeling on one pipe, begging to join us. He was well-dressed and built like a tank—a real giant of a man. Apparently, he was the leader of a famous bandit group. He claimed to have skills rivaling an S-Rank adventurer.
The Masked Demon General told me the guy wanted to meet me, so I figured I’d give him an audience.
"I try to be humble... and you go and get cocky!"
The bandit leader seemed pissed. But what could I do? The Hero Supporters is a fan club, not some evil organization. Maybe I should try explaining my tastes?
"What do you believe in, exactly? See, I don't care for 'cheap' existences that don't know pain. I love the light of hope—those who fulfill their missions no matter what."
"Hah?"
The bandit leader didn't seem to get it. He grabbed a knife from his waist and pointed it at me.
"You telling me to believe in God or something?"
"How insulting. The object of one's faith should be a real, existing person. Don't you agree?"
"I don't understand you at all!"
He lunged at me. In that instant—the bandit’s body exploded.
The area was suddenly drenched in blood, and the bandit was reduced to a lump of meat with only his head intact. Wait, what the hell? Blood just went fwoosh everywhere... uh...
"Know your place."
"Yes, you should learn your station in life."
The Knight-sensei and Altlinde were looking quite cross. From the looks of it, those two had killed him. They didn't have to go that far...
The Masked Demon General was sitting in a chair further back, watching us in silence. Everyone was gathered here. Even if he was a criminal, killing him the second it turned out he wasn't a "fan" was... well, that’s some pretty dangerous ideology right there.
"Ihihi! I have already disposed of all this man’s subordinates as well."
"Hmph. With your Divine Spirits as opponents, that was the only possible outcome."
The Knight and Altlinde were really hitting it off. These two were surprisingly close. Then, for some reason, the Knight picked up the head and tossed it toward me. The bandit leader’s head came rolling to a stop at my feet.
"Uh...?"
"The head of the trash who acted insolently toward you. Do with it as you wish."
"A natural conclusion, indeed."
Why do you look so proud? Please don't look at me like you want a pat on the head. Well, I can't actually see the Knight’s face, but still. Even Altlinde was perfectly calm looking at the corpse. Given her background, she might be used to seeing dead people.
Honestly, these people are scary. I think of them as fellow fans, but they are terrifying.
"My apologies, Emo-san."
"Hmm?"
"When we first met, you said you would accept anyone, so I brought him along. But his level was clearly too low. I suppose a minimum level of quality is required."
"Don't worry about it."
The Masked Demon General apologized. What was he talking about? I don't remember saying I’d take bandits into the group when we first met. Maybe the General is the type who enjoys fantasizing about hanging out with his "oshi" in memories that don't exist. I guess that’s one way to enjoy fandom. I won't judge.
"What should I do with this head...?"
I think it’s pretty mean to make me handle the body disposal when they’re the ones who killed him. Well, this world isn't like my previous life in Japan; it’s survival of the fittest. Killing is a daily occurrence. Of course, there are laws and ethics, but it’s a dangerous world. Dungeons are a prime example.
"By the way, is this place a dungeon?"
"Yeah, that’s right. A very high-difficulty one, at that."
The hideout the Masked Demon General prepared was apparently a dungeon. When I heard the hideout was underground, I figured as long as there was a place to sleep, we should all go. I saw some weird doll monsters on the way, so I had a hunch, but I didn't think it was actually a dungeon...
"I happen to be a Dungeon Master. The core given to me by the Demon King is still functioning. I was using it as a place to sleep, but since it was convenient, I called everyone here."
"Huh, sounds handy."
"There are countless exits, so it’s impossible for our location to be tracked—well, maybe not impossible, since you tracked me down, Emo-san..."
"Haha, I told you, didn't I? It was just a coincidence."
"Right, so you did."
The Masked Demon General gave a wry grin. It seems he finally understands it was just luck.
"Emo-san."
"Yeah?"
"I have a proposal."
"You’re free to speak, though responsibility follows. Let’s hear it."
"Scary, aren't you?"
I prompted him to continue while sipping my tea. It was a blend I’d pulled from my Item Box. It has a wonderful aroma and I really like it, so I poured some for everyone, but no one was drinking. In fact, no one but me was even sitting. They wouldn't come to the table. Even the Masked Demon General, who had been sitting further away, stood up.
I’d better make it clear that if the General says something and Altlinde and the others snap again, it’s not my fault... I really don't want to see anyone else get decapitated and turned into a meat pile.
"Do you know the name 'The Old Man of the Back Alleys'? He’s a famous information broker. If we bring him to our side, it’ll be much easier to move. However, I don't know where he’s hiding. What about you, Emo-san?"
"I wonder..."
I tried my best to remember, but I probably didn't know him. Since the Hero’s party didn't use him, he must be a dark-web type of broker. The reason he was proposing this now was obvious. The General must be saying we should get his help to dispose of this corpse.
"No, sorry... forget I said anything."
"Why?"
"It wasn't realistic. He’s a top-tier broker who only certain people can contact. No matter how much combat ability one has, recruitment would be difficult."
It’s cruel to give me hope and then take it away. Seriously, what am I going to do with this head? It’s starting to get damp, and I really don't want to hold it anymore... But he was killed because I carelessly said I didn't need him. I should at least bury this bandit properly and offer a prayer.
"Is it okay if I explore the dungeon a bit? There’s something I want to try."
"Yeah, do whatever you like. There are countless exits, and some are random. Be careful. ...Though I suppose you’ll be fine, Emo-san."
"No, I appreciate the warning. Well then, if you’ll excuse me."
I started walking, still holding the head. If it’s a dungeon, I should be able to bury it without being seen. I just need to find a nice-looking spot and give him a proper send-off!
"...I have a terrible sense of direction, don't I?"
I’d completely forgotten, but I get lost easily. If the Hero were in front of me, I could just stalk him and I wouldn't get lost, but...
"It’s so big."
Honestly, I regret not asking for a guide. As I walked, the scenery changed. Looking around, it seemed I was in a place that looked like an abandoned village. There was no sign of anyone.
"Is this... inside the dungeon?"
Looking back, a strange shadow was floating there. It looked like a warp entrance. This must be somewhere outside the dungeon, a random point. I’ll just dig a hole in someone’s yard and bury him before I run into anyone.
"I wonder if I have a shovel."
I rummaged through my Item Box, looking for something to dig with.
"I actually had one."
I used the shovel to dig in the yard of a dilapidated, empty house. It looked like no one lived in this village anymore, so I doubted anyone would complain if I buried him here. As I dug, I hit something hard.
"...A time capsule? They had that custom in this world too?"
While I was looking at the box that seemed like a time capsule, I heard footsteps behind me. I turned around to see an old man standing there. Did someone still live here?
"Hi, I’m Emo Sugiru. May I ask your name?"
"...Me? I am called the Old Man of the Back Alleys. I am an information broker. Did you come here knowing that?"
"Just lucky, I guess."
It’s the person the Masked Demon General mentioned! What luck to run into him by chance!
"This is for you."
"...!"
I showed him the bandit’s head. He should understand that I’m asking for help with body disposal. Even if he just introduces me to a professional in that field, it would be great...
"And this time capsule, if you’d like."
I’ll hand over the time capsule I dug up too. He should be able to find the owner. We should head back to the hideout together and talk about the request...
"Lord Emo Sugiru... you have my gratitude..."
"Eh?"
The old man started crying. Was he that hard up for work? Or was he just lonely because he had no one to talk to?
"I need you."
I reached out my hand with a smile. You have to cherish the bonds formed by chance encounters, after all. With this, the body disposal problem is solved!
＊
This world is rotten.
It is clearly divided into the strong and the weak. I am not talking about wealth or assets. I am talking about pure strength. Combat ability.
"There is no God..."
The strong do not know pain. They cannot understand the pain of the weak. They casually steal the things others hold dear.
"Just once more... I want to see that child again..."
I had a daughter. She was a lovely girl. We were not related by blood, but she was my entire life. I felt that as long as she could be happy, it didn't matter what happened to me. She was my reason for living, my hope.
"Why? Why do you steal from us? If you were going to take her, you shouldn't have given her to me in the first place..."
One day, that girl was killed. She was kidnapped by a famous bandit group and found in a horrific state. Even now, it appears in my dreams and won't fade. My daughter’s corpse was gruesome. Her limbs were severed, and there was a foul stench of semen and blood. Her eyes were filled with despair. I can never forget any of it. How much resentment must she have felt? How much pain?
"Forgive me, for I cannot even complete my revenge."
I was originally a lowly information broker. But for the sake of revenge, I gathered information on the bandits who were responsible. I stepped into the underworld and swore that one day, I would find them. Eventually, I became known as the Old Man of the Back Alleys. And finally, I reached them.
'Weak. You’re so pathetic you aren't even a toy, are you? Your daughter was quite fun, though. She was the best. She was tight, and her crying was really a turn-on. After my subordinates had their turn, we had a blast with a dismantling show. Well, we failed at disposing of the body. Thanks to that, here you are, coming for revenge.'
'You monster...!'
I was defeated by the leader of that bandit group. Even with the power I obtained by paying a price to a Fallen Angel, there was a gap we couldn't bridge. Even after obtaining power rivaling an A-Rank adventurer, that was the limit for an ordinary person. The bandit man had strength that was high-tier even compared to an S-Rank adventurer.
Personality and talent have nothing to do with each other. No matter how rotten a person is, they can still be strong. To an unreasonable degree, I stood no chance.
'Old man, you aren't even worth killing.'
'Guh...'
My head was stepped on, and all I could hear was the sound of mocking laughter. I will never forget that moment for as long as I live. Even with my heart full of revenge, I was not even a threat to the strong. If you are born with special talent, is everything you do affirmed? Laws, morals, ethics—they are all worthless. No one can judge these bandits, and no one will.
"It is useless to pray to God or wish upon a Hero."
Neither God nor Heroes will help. They won't take revenge for me, either. It was only natural. No one would think of judging such a strong person at the cost of making them an enemy. It is only when disaster strikes them and those around them that they finally realize. They learn pain.
"At least, I shall return to that house where I lived with that child."
I decided to spend the rest of my life in the place of our memories. The days I spent with her were treasures. That was all I had left. Because of the price I paid to the Fallen Angel, I had lost one eye, and my remaining lifespan was fixed at seven years.
"Hmm?"
When I returned to my old house, a man was standing there. He was digging in the yard and holding something. There shouldn't be anything of value there.
"Hi, I’m Emo Sugiru. May I ask your name?"
"...Me? I am called the Old Man of the Back Alleys. I am an information broker. Did you come here knowing that?"
"Just lucky, I guess."
For someone who claimed it was a coincidence, he showed a reaction to the name of the Old Man of the Back Alleys. As I thought, he must have had business with me as an information broker. However, I had no intention of taking any more requests. My revenge had failed. There was no point in continuing.
"This is for you."
"...!"
It was a corpse. A head. And a freshly killed one at that. I recognized that face. It was that bandit man. He had a stupidly blank look on his face in death. It gave the impression that he had been killed in a split second without even realizing it.
"And this time capsule, if you’d like."
"..."
This was no coincidence. He had accurately grasped my location and come to deliver the head. He had carried out my revenge for me. I could think of no other explanation. When I looked at the box he handed me, I recognized that too. It was a letter my daughter had buried in the yard a long time ago. It was so far in the past that I had completely forgotten about it.
It was the day I had complained to my daughter about my work. I think I told her, while drinking, that my job only satisfied one client and didn't help the majority. My daughter had looked dissatisfied and desperately wrote something on a piece of paper with her small hands. She told me to read it someday if my work became hard.
I opened the box he gave me—
'I love you, Papa, for being able to make even one person happy.'
Such a short message was written there. My vision blurred. It seemed I was crying. The tears wouldn't stop. It wasn't because I was sad. It was because I was frustrated. Because I was no longer the man my daughter had loved.
I had stepped into the underworld and even stained my hands with evil. I had abandoned even making one person happy and thought only of revenge.
"I need you."
Emo Sugiru—I knew he was a wanted criminal. But I simply could not think of him as an evil man. I couldn't help but feel that he was an "evil" that knew pain, just like me. This man, who killed that bandit and stood by me, looked like a savior. The bandit, myself, and Emo Sugiru were all equally evil. Even so, I wanted to be an evil that had meaning.
"I am an evil man."
"What a coincidence. I’m no saint either. I live only for the sake of the one I love."
"...!"
It was as if he had seen right through my heart. Just what kind of pain had Lord Sugiru overcome to choose that path? And despite that, he said he needed a dying old man like me?
" I have stained my hands with misdeeds..."
"The world doesn't go 'round on pretty words alone. I’m glad I met you. See—you’re already being helpful."
"I am weak. There is no guarantee I can be of use to you."
"Combat ability isn't what I call strength. That bandit is a good example. What I need is true strength—the kind that stands back up even after being broken, like a Hero."
"To you... I offer all of my remaining seven years. Please, use this old body as you wish."
"There’s no need to 'obey' me. I just want you to come along."
"My thanks... my deepest thanks to you, Lord Sugiru."
I bowed my head and took the hand that Emo Sugiru offered—
＊
"I'm back!"
I had finally returned to the dungeon.
With the Old Man of the Back Alleys in tow, I managed to find my way back to the main room. Or rather, it felt like the Masked Demon General had used some kind of teleportation magic to guide me back?
The Old Man must have been really hurting for work, because he was practically weeping with joy. I’m sure he’ll be able to introduce me to a real pro when it comes to body disposal.
"You’re back sooner than expected, Emo-san. ...Don't tell me the old man behind you is...?"
"This is the Old Man of the Back Alleys."
"You’ve got to be kidding me."
The Masked Demon General looked genuinely stunned. I couldn't blame him. Even if it was just a lucky coincidence, bringing him back in such a short amount of time was quite a feat.
"Just like when I met you, General. Pure luck."
"How terrifying..."
The Masked Demon General gave a wry, knowing smirk. Honestly, I agreed—the coincidence was almost scary. I was on a real lucky streak.
"Let’s have a little chat to introduce everyone."
I needed to introduce the Old Man and discuss our plans for the future. I poured tea for everyone and set the cups on the table. I really wanted them to drink it this time. The aroma was divine; I was sure they’d love it. Once I confirmed everyone was seated, I got down to business.
"I’ll start." I took a sip of my tea and began my self-introduction. "I’m Emo Sugiru. I’m a transmigrator, and I’m currently a wanted man in this country."
"I am aware," the Old Man noted.
"I knew that already, of course," Altlinde added.
"Hmm, a transmigrator? That is news to me," the Knight remarked.
Come to think of it, I don't think I’d told the Knight yet. This is why introductions are important. Well, I’m sure no one’s actually that interested in me, so let’s move on.
"That’s about it for me."
"I wish to know more about you, Lord Sugiru," Altlinde insisted. "Though the mystery surrounding you is quite wonderful in its own right."
"I concur," the Knight added. "Aside from the fact that we share a similar circumstance, I know nothing of you."
I didn't really have a past worth talking about. I was just a guy who spent his time stalking—I mean, supporting the Hero, and before that, I just collected magic items. For the record, my family in this world is all dead, so I’m a loner. There’s no one left who knew me before I transmigrated.
"Let’s talk about the future rather than prying into the past."
"...I suppose you are right," Altlinde conceded. "None of us likely possess a past that is pleasant to recount. A simple introduction should suffice."
Everyone nodded. We were all on the same page. This was, after all, a meeting to discuss the future of the Hero Supporters—in other words, our fandom activities. Naturally, I was a die-hard fan of the Hero’s party! But it was possible the others wanted to support someone else. It was vital that we were all in sync.
"Then, I shall go next."
Altlinde took a sip of her tea, just as I had. I caught her whispering that it was delicious. I did a mental fist-pump; I’d gone through a lot of trouble to get those leaves, so I was thrilled.
"I am Altlinde Marteno. I am a Divine Spirit User and a practitioner of dark magic. I look forward to our time together."
"...Are those Mystic Eyes?" the Knight asked, peering at her. "To possess two... I never saw the like even in my era. Between that and your contract with a Divine Spirit, your talent is truly off the charts. If we were to fight seriously, even I might find myself at a disadvantage."
"Oh? Does that mean I am to be the Number Two of this group?"
"I do not mind."
"How anticlimactic."
"If you and I were to clash, a nation would surely perish in the crossfire," the Knight stated. "I have no desire for further senseless slaughter."
I didn't quite follow the logic, but they seemed satisfied. Those two really were close. They must support the same character.
"Such words are unexpected from the legendary Demon God," Altlinde teased.
"I was lectured by the First Hero. I have spent these past several thousand years reflecting on my actions."
"My, my."
It seemed these two weren't just fans; they had a bit of a "roleplay" streak. They set up backstories and supported their favorites while staying in character. I get it; I used to do something similar. I’d tell myself I was a member of the Hero’s party just for the fun of it.
"I think that’s perfectly fine. I won't judge," I said.
"Hmph. You truly are a man of discernment," the Knight replied, crossing his arms with a satisfied air.
We were all fellow enthusiasts here, after all. We should feel free to be ourselves.
"Now, it is my turn. Though I doubt there is anyone here who does not know me."
"I’d like to hear it," I said.
"Very well." The Knight began his introduction. "My name is Kala. Men once called me the Demon God. I wield an Inherent Magic that allows me to merge with the world itself; thus, I am an immortal existence who has lived for over ten thousand years."
"I see."
So that was his "setting." From the sounds of it, Kala was a fan of the First Hero. He must be doing this Demon God roleplay for that reason. He’d even prepared that impressive armor; it was a heartwarming level of effort. Maybe he liked cosplay even more than the actual fandom?
"I guess I’m next? I’m a former member of the Demon King’s army. They used to call me the Masked Demon General. As you can see, I’m currently in Emo-san’s care."
The Masked Demon General introduced himself with such humility. If anything, we were the ones in his care. Being able to use this dungeon as a hideout was entirely thanks to him.
"And finally, there is me. I am the one they call the Old Man of the Back Alleys, a humble information broker. I have come prepared to offer my everything to Lord Sugiru. Please, allow me a place at the bottom of your ranks."
"Hmph. Very well," Kala grunted.
"You are most welcome," Altlinde said. "You seem quite devoted to Lord Sugiru."
"It’s terrifying how quickly he manages to seize people’s hearts," the General remarked.
Everyone had something to say about the Old Man’s introduction. He must have been really desperate for work to be expressing his gratitude so dramatically.
"Lord Sugiru."
"Yes?"
"There is a pitiful young girl. She lives as a Necromancer, and I cannot save her. I beg of you, show her your mercy."
The Old Man handed me a map. The marked location appeared to be a nearby forest.
"Oh, that is quite a dangerous area," Altlinde noted.
"Do you know it, Altlinde?"
"I do." She looked at the map with interest.
Maybe I should ask her to be our guide?
"A Necromancer girl, huh? I see."
"Lord Sugiru, I beg of you, please save her."
In short—she was a pro at body disposal who was also hurting for work. If I gave her a job, just like I did for the Old Man, the problem would be solved. That had to be it.
"Then let’s head out right away. Altlinde, would you mind being our guide?"
"Of course not. ...Is this... a date?"
"Hmm?"
"Nothing, just talking to myself."
Altlinde went off to another room, saying she needed to get dressed up. Kala, the self-proclaimed Demon God, let out a bored snort.
"I shall go as well."
"Oh? You’re coming too?"
"I wish to see to what extent the resurrection of the dead is possible. If she can revive the First Hero, I would meet him again by any means necessary."
"Haha, you and I really are alike. We’re both crazy about the Hero."
"Hmph..."
Kala seemed to be a huge fan as well. It really was wonderful to be able to talk with fellow enthusiasts like this.
＊
My parents died the moment I learned to speak.
In the midst of a disaster, my young self had felt the urge to draw closer to the source of the calamity. Because I told my parents that, they died.
"I don't even want this Authority... All I ever wanted was a family."
"Razsharte..."
I was born with the Authority of Command. My words dominate the soul. To resist them is to invite agony. Every word I speak is converted into an absolute order.
I gave up on living among the living when I was five years old. I commanded the dead to awaken, and I have lived with them ever since. As a Necromancer, I live quietly in a danger zone—this forest.
"As long as I have Sensei, it’s enough."
"Someday, you will meet someone who can interact with you as an equal."
The man who spoke was a youth who had died in this forest. Sensei said he had been the leader of a top-tier adventurer party. He was dead, but he was my family—a father figure to me.
"No such person exists in this world."
"They do. I’m sure of it."
I cannot control my Authority of Command. As long as a soul was born in this world, it will inevitably be affected. Sensei said that, as an exception, it wouldn't work on transcendent beings like Divine Spirits. But that only meant there were no humans who could stand as my equal.
"Hmm...?"
"Sensei, what’s wrong?"
Sensei was scanning the forest. No, he was on guard. I had never seen him like this before. Sensei was always composed and incredibly strong. I don't think he’d been this cautious even when he fought the Master of the Forest.
"Razsharte, you must not fight the group that is approaching."
"A group?"
"I believe they are human, but they are so strong I cannot be certain. We wouldn't even be able to buy time. They are on an entirely different level... We have no choice but to let them pass without fighting or fleeing."
"Even you can't win, Sensei?"
"It wouldn't even be a fight. Even if you commanded every other undead here, our chances of victory would be zero."
Sensei was always right. He had never been wrong. A truly exceptional presence was approaching. In the seven years I’d lived in this forest, I had never felt such a threat. I couldn't imagine Sensei struggling, but if he said he couldn't win, it had to be the truth.
"Sensei and I are strong."
"We are."
"But we can't win?"
"It’s impossible. They are beings of a different dimension..."
I didn't know the outside world. Even so, I knew that Sensei and I had high combat capabilities. To think we couldn't even run away was unbelievable.
"Three of them."
"So it seems. Razsharte, try speaking to them normally."
"..."
Three figures were walking toward us. A girl in a dress with different colored eyes. A figure clad in head-to-toe red armor. And... a man who looked incredibly suspicious. The suspicious man in the middle was clapping.
"Hi! I’m Emo Sugiru. Were you the one who handled the carcasses on the way here?"
"Yes."
"Wonderful! Tell me, would you be willing to lend us your strength?"
"..."
The man who called himself Emo Sugiru was trying to recruit me. He must intend to use my Authority. There had been others like him in the past. But without exception, they had all fled in terror. They would eventually realize that my power was not something they could control. Even just having a conversation made people fear me.
"Go away."
I directed my words at the three of them. Even if I didn't mean it, it became a command. Even if these three resisted, it would cause them pain. Until now, there had never been anyone who wasn't affected.
"How cold."
Unbelievably, Emo Sugiru remained perfectly calm. Resisting my words should have caused him agony, but he didn't look like he was suffering at all.
"...How?"
"Hmm?"
"My Command... it isn't working? Emo Sugiru-san, aren't you in pain?"
"I wouldn't say I’m in pain, but I am a little sad. You’re turning me away right at the door, after all."
"..."
I couldn't believe it. It was impossible. Looking closely, it wasn't just Emo Sugiru. The knight in red armor and the girl in the dress beside him were completely unaffected as well. They weren't even enduring it; they were just... natural. These three were beyond the reach of my Command.
"My Authority should affect any soul born in this world. What are you?"
"A wanted criminal who supports the Hero, I suppose."
He was mysterious, suspicious, and by no means a "good" person. Even so. Even so, he was talking to me as an equal. He was reaching out his hand.
"Aren't you afraid of me?"
"Actually, I think you’re quite cute."
"Oh."
My Authority worked on every soul born in this world without exception. It was impossible unless they were Divine Spirits with a different grade of soul, or souls born in a different world.
"...Is it okay if I join you?"
"I have a contract with a Divine Spirit," the girl in the dress said. "A command of that level will not affect me."
"As if such a fragile power could work on the great me," the knight in red armor declared confidently.
That level. Fragile power. No one had ever said such things to me before. It was the first time I’d ever heard it.
"Ugh..."
"There is no need to cry," the girl said. "In times like these, you should smile."
"It is the fault of the other fragile fools. You are not to blame," the knight added.
I had a place where I belonged. I didn't actually want to live in solitude. I wanted comrades. I wanted a family.
"I’ve been alone for so long."
"People are essentially alone, you know? Everyone is solitary. That’s why we need something to believe in, so we can forget that fact," Emo said.
"I wanted a place to belong... I’ve wanted it for so, so long!"
"The unhappy seek warmth. The happy seek solitude."
"..."
"What about you? If you come with us, at the very least, you won't be unhappy anymore."
"I’ll go."
I had no more doubts. These people were my place to belong. These people were my comrades and my family.
"Welcome! We’re glad to have you. May I have your name? Our newest fellow enthusiast."
"Razsharte Arulgan."
Emo Sugiru reached out his hand with a smile. I took it and held it tight.
"Welcome to the Hero Order. My name is Altlinde Marteno."
"I, the Demon God Kala, shall recognize you as a compatriot."
I made sure to remember the names of the two beside him as well. Because the organization called the Hero Order was my only family and my only group of comrades.
＊
If a person can sense their own death, most will begin to make preparations. It might be physical, like organizing their belongings, or it might be settling their human relationships. Regardless, it is human nature to ironically look toward the future and take action once one becomes aware of their end.
"Though, technically, I am already dead..."
The way I died was more anticlimactic than I could have ever imagined. I had challenged a danger-zone forest for the first time and proceeded to cut down powerful monsters one after another. Perhaps that was why I let my guard down. A monster that wasn't particularly strong but was poisonous managed to sting the party member who served as our healer. Then, the monster exhaled a poisonous gas, and we died just like that. Any normal adventurer party would have prepared some kind of item to counter poison. But we had over-relied on our comrade’s skill and challenged the forest without any preparation.
As a result, we were wiped out by a trivial mistake. Eight years ago—that was how the adventurer party hailed as the strongest came to an end.
However, for me alone, there was a continuation. Yes, Razsharte. A young girl with the Authority of Command. As a Necromancer, she seemed to bear the resolve to live alongside the dead.
"I’m glad you found a place where you belong," I thought, looking at Razsharte Arulgan standing beside me. I had a feeling that the Hero Order, the place she had chosen, would be a good place for me as well.
"...Yeah. Sensei is coming too."
The man named Emo Sugiru didn't look strong. That was exactly why he was terrifying. The other two were strong. Overwhelmingly so. Even if we, the party hailed as the strongest eight years ago, had banded together at our peak with full preparation, we wouldn't have stood a chance.
"Please take care of this child."
"Of course. You’re welcome too. She called you 'Sensei'; is it a master-disciple relationship?"
"Yes, something like that, Sugiru-san."
Emo Sugiru looked pleased as he replied to me. He was a strange and terrifying man. I am strong. Because I am strong, I can grasp the difference in power between myself and the other two. An ordinary being wouldn't even be able to perceive it. But Emo Sugiru was different. I felt nothing from him. No mana, no battle spirit, not even malice...
If that were all, I might have judged him to be a commoner. However, the other two were following him, and they seemed to adore him. He was either a powerhouse so great even I couldn't grasp his strength, or he was certainly a man of immense charisma.
"I felt a bit bad about making a request of a child... I’m glad you’re here, Sensei-san. I really am lucky."
"...A request?"
"Yes."
"I see."
He likely wanted to test my and Razsharte’s strength. It was a natural decision. However, the other two were far too strong. It would be impossible to show our strength by fighting them. How did he intend to test our power...?
"Oh?"
Emo Sugiru’s attention shifted, as did the other two’s. Was it some kind of telepathy? I recalled it being a high-level skill that only special existences like Dungeon Masters could use, but perhaps things had changed in these past eight years.
"I just got a message from the General. It seems we’re under attack. Let’s talk on the way back."
"You have other comrades?"
"Yes. These two are Altlinde and the Demon God Kala. There are two others: the Old Man of the Back Alleys and the Masked Demon General. That makes a five-person organization. With you two, I suppose we’re up to seven."
It was a small group, but their fighting force was unbelievable. I knew the name of the Old Man of the Back Alleys. The same for the Masked Demon General. They were already famous eight years ago. And I couldn't ignore what I’d just heard. The Demon God Kala?
"...The Demon God Kala? The same one sealed by the First Hero?"
"Ho, so you know of me. But fear not, I have no intention of rampaging pointlessly. More importantly, if you are to fear someone, it should be that woman. She is even more than I."
"My, my, how rude. And here I am, a delicate maiden."
"What?"
I knew she was strong. I understood that. But what on earth was this organization called the Hero Order? What was this fighting force? I had never even heard of an existence greater than a Demon God. Both the organization and the man who led it, Emo Sugiru, were completely unfathomable.
"I have good news. I thought it was an enemy attack, but it seems the Hero has brought some adventurers with him."
"Ihihi..."
"Hmph. That brat, eh?"
The Hero—of this era? That meant it was him... The boy from back then had successfully become the Hero. But fate is cruel. I never thought I would end up cutting him with the very sword techniques I had taught him. Still, personally, I was looking forward to seeing how much that boy had grown.
"Leave it to me. I have a connection with the current Hero."
"Oh?"
For some reason, Emo Sugiru’s eyes seemed to sparkle. Did he have some special attachment to the Hero?
"I’m quite fond of the Hero myself," Emo said.
"...Then, is the policy to not take their lives?"
"That’s right. I don't care for senseless conflict. However, there are times when one has a pride they must uphold even through battle. The Hero is the prime example of that."
That is why I like the Hero, Emo began to explain. He seemed to be in high spirits. He spread his arms and walked along as if he were dancing. It was as if he were conducting a performance... playing a beautiful, desperate melody. It seemed our practical test was to drive them away without killing them.
"Boy, if you intend to challenge the Hero Order..."
I am now with Razsharte. If she has chosen the Hero Order as her place to belong, then its enemies are nothing more than targets for me to cut down. Even if that enemy happens to be one of my former students...
＊
Let’s talk about the First Hero.
They say she was the strongest warrior in history, and that she saved the people all on her own. No records of agony or conflict exist. She never once doubted her mission. That was the kind of hero she was. The First Hero was the only one who had no comrades. Her heroic tales were always of her alone. It is also said that she remained single her entire life and was only close to her female friends... She never drowned in romance; she simply continued to be a hero, through and through.
"I was not of the caliber of a hero..."
"Wurm..."
I had stopped caring about everything. No one would think I was a hero if they saw me now, sobbing and complaining to my comrade, the mage girl, in a room at an inn. I wasn't strong like the First Hero...
"You’ve done enough! Just rest... it’ll be okay."
"Wait, where are you going?"
"We’ll fight on our own."
"..."
It was a sound judgment. Right now, I wasn't a hero; I wasn't even a warrior. I didn't have the resolve to fight.
"Actually, we’ve found the Hero Order’s hideout."
"What...?"
"...Aurora had attached a spirit to you, remember? It seems it transferred to the Masked Demon General when you came into contact with him."
"I see."
Aurora—one of the members of the Hero’s party. An elf spirit user. Back when the Masked Demon General had his foot on me, she must have made her move so we could track their location. She was a reliable comrade, and her skill was as sharp as ever. Unlike me, she had been thinking about the next step.
"Hey, Wurm, why?"
Wurm Crailer. That was my name, a name no commoner called me anymore. Everyone just called me "Hero." The only ones who called me Wurm were my party members.
"I’ve been watching you all this time... You never broke, no matter how strong the enemy was. So why have you given up this time?"
"Altlinde Marteno was holding back against all four of us! And they have the Masked Demon General and even the Demon God Kala. There’s no way we can win!"
"...That really isn't like you."
I knew that. I was more aware of it than anyone. I was simply terrified of the mastermind who was the root of all this, the one whose name I hadn't even dared to speak—him.
"We shouldn't fight the Hero Order."
"Who else is going to win if we don't?!"
"This country has S-Rank adventurers. We should be able to ask other nations for help too."
"That won't be enough... Only if we join them will there be a chance of victory."
"We might be betrayed."
"...Are you talking about the Sword Saint?"
I had been betrayed by the Sword Saint too. No, maybe he was never on our side to begin with... After arriving at the Royal Capital, the Sword Saint had vanished. Then, wanted posters started circulating, and I learned that he was a member of the Hero Order.
"His attempt to rouse me was just so he could turn me into a toy. Don't you see? Choosing to fight the Hero Order means dancing in the palm of his hand..."
"Even so, the usual Wurm would have chosen to fight."
"You... Frimura, you don't understand. You haven't talked to Emo Sugiru."
The mage girl, Frimura, looked like she was about to cry. I must have disappointed her. I loved Frimura Marinette. As a comrade, of course, but also as a woman. I didn't want to make her look like that. But I couldn't tell her how I felt anymore. I had abandoned the fight...
"I thought I was fighting of my own will."
"..."
"But I was wrong. I didn't think deeply about the Demon King’s army; I was just killing them."
"You saved humanity!"
"We could have saved them through dialogue too. There might have been a way to save even the few we cast aside. The result of our actions was the creation of someone like Altlinde Marteno."
"That..."
We should have thought more and acted of our own will. We should have fought as warriors, not as weapons. I feel like the organization called the Hero Order is intended to call out the flaws in our Hero’s party.
"Why us? What should we have done? Tell me..."
I had fought the Demon King’s army for eight years for the sake of humanity, and all of it was just a farce prepared by him. Even the Sword Saint who had encouraged me was just a pawn used to manipulate me. I was never a hero...
"Weren't you going to look for your Sensei? Are you going to throw everything away now?"
"That’s..."
Eight years ago—back when I had just been chosen as the Hero—there was an adventurer who taught me the sword. I had met the strongest adventurer party by chance in the town where it all began. Their leader was Sensei. I heard that after we parted, Sensei and his party entered a danger zone that even the Demon King’s army avoided, and they died there. It hasn't been strictly confirmed, but since not a single person returned, their annihilation is certain. Because of that incident, the place came to be known as "The Forest of No Return."
"I can't believe it. Those people were... they were stronger than we are now. And yet they didn't come back. There’s something in that forest."
"...You promised to go look for them once the war with the Demon King’s army was over, didn't you?"
"But the Hero Order appeared."
The war with the Demon King’s army was over, but that was only the beginning. The true threat, the Hero Order, had only been using that war...
"Hey, Wurm."
"..."
"At the very least, go look for that Sensei of yours!"
"!"
"The fight with the Hero Order... we can handle that ourselves."
Please don't go. Please come with me. I’m such a weakling that those are the only words that come to mind. That must be why I fail at everything.
"And, this is a personal request."
"What is it...?"
"I want you to... to, um... hold me."
"Eh?"
"I said! I love you, Wurm!"
With her face bright red, Frimura said those words. It was so sudden I couldn't wrap my head around it.
"...What did you say?"
"Are you trying to embarrass me?"
"No, but why? Why now?"
"Because tonight might be the last time. Tomorrow, we challenge the Hero Order."
"I see."
I loved Frimura too. I had wanted to be the one to tell her. During our eight-year journey, there hadn't been a day when I didn't think of her.
"...I’m sorry."
"I see."
Hearing my words, Frimura turned away, looking lonely. Seeing her trembling back, I felt a surge of regret and realized how pathetic I was. The woman I loved was holding back her tears for my sake. I was a damn fool.
"I can't hold you. Not yet."
"...?"
"If we win tomorrow’s battle, will you marry me?"
I said it. I actually said it. I couldn't believe the words coming out of my own mouth.
"Wurm...?"
"I know it’s inappropriate. I know I’m misreading the room. But let me say it. I want to be the one to say it first."
"!"
"Marry me. I promise we’ll beat the Hero Order."
Fighting for the sake of the woman I loved rather than for humanity or justice probably made me a failure as a hero. I wouldn't be able to look the First Hero in the eye. But that was fine. I didn't care if I wasn't a hero anymore. I wasn't of the caliber of a hero. So why not fight for a thoroughly human reason?
"I’m not cut out to be a hero. I’m always relying on my comrades, and I’m fighting just so I can marry the girl I love. I’m terrible..."
"Hehe, that’s so like you, Wurm. Besides, I knew you’d come if we were in danger. I love that about you."
It seemed my conclusion had been part of her plan all along. Frimura, as she hugged me, was quite the enchantress. But I loved her for it. I wanted to protect her.
"Are we all set?"
"It went perfectly."
Aurora, the elf spirit user, and Garteld, the priest. My two other comrades were peeking their heads through the door. It seemed they had been watching us...
"You guys...!"
"Frimura’s 'crying act' is the most effective against Wurm."
"Still, the marriage proposal was a surprise."
It seemed my comrades saw right through me. Strangely, my fear had vanished.
"You guys... what were you going to do if I’d accepted Frimura’s request?"
"Wurm doesn't have the guts. He’s never even peeked at us while we were bathing."
"Indeed, it would be impossible."
I felt like I was being called a chicken rather than being told I was trusted. And yet, I was so happy I couldn't stop crying. I had been in such despair, but the world looked bright again. If I have my comrades, I can fight!
We all slept together in one cramped bed that night, for the first time in years.
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