So I’m a Spider, So What Vol. 11 — Part 1 of 8

Part 1 of 8

So I’m a Spider, So What?, Vol. 11

Okina Baba

Translation by Jenny McKeon

Cover art by Tsukasa Kiryu

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

KUMO DESUGA, NANIKA? Vol. 11

©Okina Baba, Tsukasa Kiryu 2019

First published in Japan in 2019 by KADOKAWA CORPORATION, Tokyo.

English translation rights arranged with KADOKAWA CORPORATION, Tokyo, through TUTTLE-MORI AGENCY, INC., Tokyo.

Yen Press, LLC supports the right to free expression and the value of copyright. The purpose of copyright is to encourage writers and artists to produce the creative works that enrich our culture.

The scanning, uploading, and distribution of this book without permission is a theft of the author’s intellectual property. If you would like permission to use material from the book (other than for review purposes), please contact the publisher. Thank you for your support of the author’s rights.

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Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Names: Baba, Okina, author. | Kiryu, Tsukasa, illustrator. | McKeon, Jenny, translator.

Title: So I’m a spider, so what? / Okina Baba ; illustration by Tsukasa Kiryu ; translation by Jenny McKeon.

Other titles: Kumo desuga nanika. English | So I am a spider, so what?

Description: First Yen On edition. | New York, NY : Yen On, 2017–

Classification: LCC PZ7.1.O44 So 2017 | DDC [Fic]—dc23

LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2017034911

ISBNs: 978-1-9753-1038-7 (paperback)

978-1-9753-1039-4 (ebook)

E3-20210621-JV-PC-COR

Contents

Cover

Insert

Title Page

J1 Julius, Age 11: Beginnings

Sophia’s Diary 1

J2 Julius, Age 12: First Expedition

Special Chapter The Empire Veteran and the Commander

Sophia’s Diary 2

J3 Julius, Age 12: Surprise Attack

Special Chapter The Saint and the Empire Veteran

Sophia’s Diary 3

J4 Julius, Age 12: Showdown

Special Chapter The Former Thief and the Adventurer

Sophia’s Diary 4

J5 Julius, Age 13: Machinations

Special Chapter The Empire Veteran’s Final Hours

Interlude The Elf Despises Wasting Time

Sophia’s Diary 5

J6 Julius, Age 13: Life and Death

Interlude The Pontiff and the Reincarnation Spy

Sophia’s Diary 6

J7 Julius, Age 13: Progress

Sophia’s Diary 7

J8 Julius, Age 14: Youth

Sophia’s Diary 8

J9 Julius, Age 15: Partner

Sophia’s Diary 9

J10 Julius, Age 16: Friends

Interlude An Unopposable Force

Sophia’s Diary 10

J11 Julius, Age 17: Accomplishments

J12 Julius, Age 21: Family

Timeline

Afterword

Yen Newsletter

JULIUS, AGE 11: BEGINNINGS

When I was young, I loved the epic tales of heroes that my mother would read to me.

Hearing my beloved mother’s gentle voice describe the great deeds of the heroes always made my heart dance.

Some were even based on heroes who really existed in the past, and I wanted to be just like them.

Banishing evil and protecting the weak…

I wanted more than anything to become a noble hero.

When I told my mother this, she simply responded with a smile.

“Of course. I’m sure you will, Julius.”

I was so thrilled by her answer that I decided right then and there to devote myself to living up to the strong yet kind heroes of legend.

To always hold justice close to my heart and never allow evil to go unpunished.

Young as I was, I knew I had no real chance of ever becoming a hero, but I wanted to at least have the attitude of one so that I could be a good prince.

I never imagined that not long after that moment, I really would be a hero.

When it happened, I was more confused and nervous than excited, but my mother gently encouraged me.

“You only need to be yourself, Julius. After all, you’re already my hero! Just having you close by gives me courage.”

At the time, I was too flustered to tell her how happy those words made me.

And I would never get another chance.

Mother…to me, you were the real hero.

Even now, thinking of you fills me with the strength to go on.

I’m trying to be myself, to embody the kind of hero I believe in, like you always told me to.

But lately, I’ve been having doubts.

What if there are some obstacles in this world that no amount of ideals can surmount?

What should I do if I run into an impassable wall?

Mother, please give me just a little more of your courage.

“Expose a human-trafficking organization?”

“Yes, that’s right. I would like you to spearhead the efforts as the hero.”

The elderly man smiling gently before me is the leader of the Word of God religion, Pontiff Dustin LXI.

He looks like a perfectly normal old man, but there’s an aura of holiness about him that makes his powerful standing incredibly apparent.

And yet, his soft smile is strangely reassuring. He isn’t intimidating at all.

But while this pontiff seems like the ideal holy man, I don’t like dealing with him.

I know he’s not the kind and saintly man he appears to be.

My first battle—the war between Ohts and Sariella—has become a bitter memory.

Following the pontiff’s orders, I participated in the fighting on the Ohts side.

Since victory was supposed to be certain and the dangers minimal, he suggested that I could at least experience what it felt like to stand on a real battlefield, and I accepted his invitation.

The hero has always acted with the support of the Word of God.

As such, there is a bond between the two that can never fully be broken, and requests from the Word of God are difficult to turn down.

Besides, at the time, I had no particular concerns about the offer, so I accepted without thinking about it too deeply.

The result of my blindness was the disaster that befell a town in Keren.

As the Ohts soldiers ravaged the place, the townspeople turned glares of hatred on me. Their warmhearted smiles were nowhere to be seen.

I endured not only their stares but every stone, kick, and punch they threw as well.

As the hero, I should be the representative of all humanity, but since I participated in a war between humans and chose a side, the natural implication was that the opposing side—the country of Sariella—must be in the wrong.

Only after I witnessed the destruction of the devastated town did I realize for the first time that I had misjudged my role as the hero.

My individual strength matters little in the grand scheme of things, but the title of Hero carries the weight of all the generations that came before me.

What people value is the concept of the hero, not me specifically.

In other words, whoever currently inhabits the role of the hero must carry the weight of every hero who has come before.

I’d allowed myself to be used because I failed to understand that properly.

Manipulated by Pontiff Dustin, the man standing before me.

“Are you aware that children all over the world have been disappearing without a trace? Our investigation has revealed that the culprits are part of a massive human-trafficking organization, one which transcends the borders between nations. In order to combat this criminal enterprise, the Word of God has created a special task force. And I would like you to lead that force.”

The pontiff quietly continues his explanation.

I have been hearing quite a bit about young children being kidnapped in countless areas.

If it’s the work of a human-trafficking organization, I definitely can’t let that slide.

Kidnapping is a crime, and all the more unforgiveable if the children are being sold.

If what the pontiff says is true, that is.

“Do you have any documents about this organization? I’d like to take a look at them before I decide, please.”

I won’t give my answer right away.

I agreed to join the battle between Ohts and Sariella without thinking things through, and I’ve regretted it ever since.

Every action I take needs to be carefully thought out.

Instead of blindly doing whatever I’m told, I have to think about what a real hero would do.

This is also important to prevent others from taking advantage of my title again.

“But of course. I shall have them brought to you at once. I should also mention that the commanding officer of the force has requested to meet you. If you have the time, would you be willing to speak with them?”

“All right.”

I part ways with the pontiff and go back to my room.

“Whew…”

As soon as I’m alone, I heave a sigh.

The Holy Kingdom of Alleius is home to the headquarters of the Word of God religion and has teleport gates linking it to every country of note.

Naturally, it also has a dedicated room that has been used by generations of heroes, located here for maximum coverage and access in case any emergencies arise.

These teleport gates are one of the reasons I can’t ignore the Word of God if I am to continue acting as humanity’s hero.

A few steps can bring me to a distant country on the other side of the continent in the blink of an eye.

I can go right from being on standby to helping the people who are in trouble moments later.

So no matter how wary I am of the pontiff, I cannot simply refuse to deal with him.

I think back on the pontiff’s gentle smile.

Hiding behind that smile is a cold, calculating politician.

You would never know it by just looking at him, but the pontiff is willing to commit any atrocity if he deems it necessary.

That became painfully clear to me during the battle between Ohts and Sariella.

But that doesn’t mean he’s a force of absolute evil, either.

The pontiff never acts out of self-interest. Everything he does is for the sake of the Word of God faith and for the people who believe in it.

He takes actions befitting a man who rules over others.

Sometimes he even seems like what all kings should aspire to be.

He’ll use any means necessary to accomplish his goals.

And his goals are never malicious or corrupt.

So while I’m bitter that he used me, I can’t wholeheartedly hate the pontiff.

I know far too well from watching my father what duties come with being king.

There often comes a time when you have no choice but to make painful decisions for the sake of your people.

I am no fan of the pontiff, and I prefer to avoid him if possible, but I don’t loathe him enough to refuse him outright.

That’s my honest opinion of the pontiff.

Which is exactly why it’s unsettling.

I was taken advantage of and witnessed the tragedy of Sariella firsthand, but the pontiff clearly doesn’t fit the description of evil.

He acts in accordance with what he believes is right and does his best to see that justice is served.

If that is true, then what is justice really?

I don’t understand.

What is the right thing for me to do?

A knock on the door pulls me out of my swirling thoughts, back into the present.

“Come in.”

It must be someone bringing the documents about the human-trafficking group that I requested from the pontiff.

But when I respond, an unexpected person opens the door.

“Pardon me. It’s good to see you again, Sir Hero.”

A graceful middle-aged man bows smartly and enters the room.

His polished manners and fine clothes mark him as a high-ranking noble.

However, the well-defined muscles that are visible even through his shirt show that he’s a seasoned fighter as well.

“Mr. Tiva! It’s good to see you, too.”

Tiva is a noble and soldier of the empire. He looked after me in Sariella.

“I am glad to see you in good health. My blood certainly ran cold when I heard of Lord Ronandt’s latest exploits.”

I force out a weak laugh at Mr. Tiva’s playful joke.

I really did think I was going to die…

Even now, my master sometimes appears in my nightmares, cackling with his body wreathed in flames.

Enough. Just thinking about it makes me shudder.

“So what are you doing here, Mr. Tiva?”

I change the subject with a question I’m genuinely curious about.

Mr. Tiva is an important figure in the empire, so I doubt he would come all this way for no reason.

“Oh, you haven’t heard? I am in fact the commanding officer of the special task force created to combat the human-trafficking organization. If you end up leading us, I shall serve as your deputy. Otherwise, I shall assume the role myself.”

This is completely unexpected, at least to me.

“Mr. Tiva, you’re acting as a commander for the Word of God?”

Tiva is a soldier of the empire. While the Word of God is the chief religion there, it seems rather unusual for a person from another nation to be heading up this force.

“Ah, yes. Your doubts are perfectly understandable. Various circumstances led to this curious development. Please allow me to explain.”

With that, he gestures for me to sit.

I comply and settle on the sofa in the reception area, and Mr. Tiva takes a seat across from me.

“First, please have a look at this.”

Tiva holds out a sheaf of papers covered in writing.

The topmost document contains the names of several nations, along with a certain set of numbers.

“These are the estimates of how many have likely been kidnapped by the human-trafficking organization.”

“What?!”

I can’t help but exclaim out loud.

This is far higher than anything I expected.

Even the lowest estimates are at least two digits, and they go up to three digits on the higher end.

The empire’s number is so high that it almost requires a fourth digit.

“I’m afraid it’s true. There has always been some degree of illegal human trafficking in the past. However, the amount of activity in recent years is beyond unusual. With more disappearances occurring throughout the world than ever before, we concluded that there must be an organization of unprecedented scope behind these kidnappings—a gigantic group determined to spread its evil influence across the world. And so the various realms have agreed to collectively combat the problem. If this league of villains has tendrils committing sinister deeds all over the world, then every nation has an obligation to work together to stop them. However, there are certain complications that come with an operation of this scope. Because of its influence over many different nations and it being the home of the main branch of the Word of God, the Holy Kingdom of Alleius was selected to take the lead on this whole endeavor.”

Judging by Mr. Tiva’s explanation, this human-trafficking organization is far larger and more dangerous than I had even imagined.

So much so that the only way to stop it was a special task force combining the powers of several states.

“No nation will openly complain about the Holy Kingdom of Alleius being in charge, no matter how they might feel privately. And you, being both the prince of the powerful Analeit Kingdom as well as the hero of humanity, are to be the commander. With myself, a soldier of the equally influential Renxandt Empire, as your right-hand man, we should be able to maintain a careful balance.”

The Holy Kingdom of Alleius, the Analeit Kingdom, and the Renxandt Empire.

This combination of the three greatest powers would naturally silence virtually all complaints.

It’s a very logical plan, typical of the pontiff.

And at the same time, I realize that I have no choice but to agree.

Considering how far things have already come, everyone involved must have already been informed that I’m the top candidate to lead the task force.

If I was to decline and Mr. Tiva became the supreme commander instead, I’m sure rumors would spread quickly.

It would be one thing if it was only my own reputation at stake, but that could cause trouble for my home country of Analeit as well.

I’m sure the people of other nations would jump to some damning conclusions about why I declined, including those critical of the kingdom itself.

That’s the last thing I want.

Again, I am reminded that my life and decisions are not truly my own.

I have two roles: as the hero and as the prince of the Analeit Kingdom.

And I must never act in a way that would tarnish either title.

Any mistakes I make will not end with only my suffering.

I’d be dragging the names of past heroes through the mud and bring shame to the Analeit Kingdom to boot.

The weight of my title and prince-hood is not so trivial as to forgive my mistakes simply because I’m still a child.

The pontiff is perfectly aware of that and crafted a scenario that leaves me no room to refuse.

I can’t say I’m surprised in the slightest.

“It doesn’t seem as if I can decline.”

As I heave a sigh and respond, Tiva smiles dryly at me.

“It appears you’ve stayed true to your resolve, seeing, thinking, and making decisions for yourself. That’s an admirable thing.”

“…Not that it matters, since my hand’s been forced regardless.”

Whatever my intentions are, the pontiff likely still sees me as a child who can be easily manipulated.

This series of events has only proven that to be true once again, which is deeply depressing.

But Tiva has a thing or two to say about my grumbling.

“Not that it matters? I would say it matters quite a bit. You are acting based on what you believe is right. That will not go unnoticed. I’m sure there will be many who decide to follow you because of your character. Such as myself, for instance.”

Mr. Tiva winks at me.

I’m impressed that the playful gesture suits him so well, even at his age.

“You are the hero, but you are also an individual human being. There are those who see you for who you are and what you do, not just your title. And if you continue to think and act based on your personal sense of justice, people will naturally come to follow in your footsteps. I’m sure in time, that will prove to be a great source of strength.”

I feel my perspective grow as I think on Mr. Tiva’s words.

I’m a hero but also an individual.

That idea is the complete opposite of how I’ve been approaching my life all this time.

But Mr. Tiva is saying that my personal decisions are what’s important, not my title as the Hero.

That I should gain more followers with my actions, not my status.

“And if those people prove to be truly trustworthy, so much the better.”

Mr. Tiva smiles, but his words also seem like a warning that I shouldn’t be too quick to accept people I’m not sure I can trust.

“At any rate, you have to build these things over time. Let more people see you in action and share your beliefs. No one will listen to someone without a proven record, no matter how loudly they shout. I’m sure there are people who would follow you based on title alone, but that isn’t reliable. You need people who will stand with you because it’s you. Now, you’re still young and inexperienced, with few accomplishments to speak of. But that also means you’ll have plenty of opportunities ahead of you. There’s no need to rush. Just keep moving forward one step at a time.”

Slowly…

It’s true that I don’t have nearly enough experience yet.

“Fortunately, there’s no hidden dark side to this request. It’s a mission of justice, to save people who are suffering because of this human-trafficking organization. You may not have enough of a voice to protest assignments from the Word of God just yet, but if you carry out these requests and amass successes, your fame is sure to rise. This request involves many different nations, too, so it’s the perfect opportunity. Use it to your advantage instead of simply letting others use you. That, too, is a kind of strength that you will need.”

This has been very educational.

Mr. Tiva’s advice is just what I needed.

I should exploit the pontiff’s requests as a stepping-stone, the same way he’s been exploiting me.

“Still, you must be careful not to be fooled by sneaky adults. For example, you should consider how I might only be saying all of this because I want you to join the force.”

Startled, I look at Tiva only to find him grinning teasingly.

From his expression, I can tell that he’s half joking.

The other half is a warning.

As if to emphasize this, Mr. Tiva’s smile fades into a serious expression as he continues.

“It’s very important to lend an ear to the viewpoints of others. But you mustn’t simply take everything they say at face value. You will have to think about it yourself and come to your own conclusions. What is right? What is wrong? Only after agonizing over these things will your answer have any worth.”

In other words, never stop thinking?

“Now then, that’s enough preachy lecturing from this old man.”

“No, it was incredibly helpful. Thank you.”

Mr. Tiva smiles kindly and hands me the other documents pertaining to the request.

“I’ll let you have a look at these. Read them over, think long and hard, then decide for yourself whether to accept.”

“I will.”

Giving a satisfied nod at my response, Mr. Tiva at last leaves the room.

Decide for myself…

I’ll review the documents and then make up my mind, like he suggested.

That said, in my heart, I’ve already decided what to do.

I’m going along for this mission.

If Mr. Tiva will be with me as my deputy, then there’s nothing to fear.

I’ll think, act, and press forward one step at a time.

So that I can live up to my vision of the ideal hero.

As I harden my resolve, I tightly clutch the scarf wrapped around my neck.

I’m sooo bored.

I don’t get to see Merazophis today, as usual.

White hasn’t come back to the duke’s mansion in a while, either.

She’s off doing something or other with Miss Ariel, apparently.

It’s not fair!

I’m bored to tears here. So bored, I could die!

The last time White returned from her little adventures, I complained about it to her, and the next day, she gave me a written training regimen.

Ugh! That couldn’t be further from what I wanted!

I mean, yes, technically this gives me something to do, but still!

Besides, who would want to do something this insanely hard-core anyway?!

Isn’t there another option?!

Like paying more attention to me!

JULIUS, AGE 12: FIRST EXPEDITION

It’s been about six months since I agreed to join the special task force for combating the human-trafficking organization.

That means the New Year has come and gone, and I’m a year older.

In those six months, the task force has been fully assembled, and we’re finally setting forth to smoke out the organization.

The reason it took half a year to mobilize is because so many different nations are supplying soldiers for this mission.

Each nation has their own goals in mind, so it took quite some time to select who they would be sending, or so I’m told.

To be fair, it must be difficult to take swift action when there are so many varying interests and expectations to account for.

I understand that’s unavoidable to a degree, but I can’t deny that I’ve begun to feel restless.

Now that the long-awaited day has finally come, all I am is eager.

This is where it begins.

“Hey, Juliuuus! Tea’s ready.”

“How can you still speak to him so impolitely?! Childhood friends or not, to address Sir Hero by name so casually is quite unacceptable!”

As I sit in the lounge mentally preparing myself, I hear two people arguing. Their voices give it away that they’re about my age.

Turning around, I see a familiar girl and boy approaching.

“Yeah, yeah. I’ll be careful from now on or whatever.”

“Honestly! What sort of attitude is that?! You don’t intend to be careful in the least, do you?!”

The boy shrugs as the girl rages at him.

This sort of exchange has become a regular ritual lately.

The boy’s name is Hyrince. He’s from the Analeit Kingdom like me, and despite his lax attitude, he hails from the noble family of Duke Quarto.

However, since he already has an adult elder brother who’s well-placed to take over as the next head of the family, Hyrince is in a bit of an odd position as the second son.

Among the nobility, a second son is often treated as a backup in case something should happen to the first, but in Hyrince’s case, his elder brother already has a child of his own, so he’s completely extraneous.

I can’t help but sympathize, as I occupy an equally strange place in my family as the second son of royalty but born to a concubine.

That’s probably why we’ve been close since we were very young.

So yes, you could call him my childhood friend.

He’s one of my few close companions whom I’ve known since before I became the hero.

And now, Hyrince is coming along as my attendant. In essence, his job is to look after my needs.

It’s not the kind of job that would normally be given to the son of a duke, second or otherwise, but since I’m royalty and the hero, I’m allowed exceptions like this.

In fact, if Hyrince hadn’t come forward for the role, I probably would’ve been inundated with petitions from all over the kingdom and even other countries as people vied to get closer to me.

It was Hyrince’s status as a person of importance from my homeland that allowed him to push aside the other contenders for this role.

I much prefer having a familiar friend by my side over someone I’ve never met, especially strangers who likely have political motives.

But there’s one person who isn’t so fond of his frank nature.

Namely, the girl who’s been chewing him out since they entered the room: Yaana the saint.

The saint is a role that pairs with the hero.

However, instead of being chosen through a title like the Hero, they have to undergo difficult training from a young age and meet certain qualifications to be selected.

In a way, candidates for sainthood must traverse an even more grueling path than heroes, so the person finally chosen for the role is an elite beyond any doubt.

At least, that’s how it’s supposed to be…

“Hey, Julius. Drink it before it gets cold, will ya? You gotta rest up while you can, or it’s gonna be rough later.”

“Hey! Don’t you ignore me!”

…Hyrince’s attitude toward her doesn’t exactly make her seem that way, though.

The saint is usually dispatched by the Word of God religion to support the hero.

To say the saint is a mediator between the hero and the Word of God would be putting it kindly. In reality, she’s more like an appointed watchdog.

At least, that was what I thought before I met Yaana here.

At first, I thought her attitude was just an act, but after half a year, I can tell that’s not the case.

She’s earnest, meticulous, honest to a fault, and sometimes I catch myself pitying her a little.

“How about you, Yaana? I did a pretty good job brewing it, if I do say so myself. C’mon—don’t worry. There’s definitely no bugs in there or anything.”

“Ugh…! No thank you!”

Strolling over boldly to sit at the table with me, his so-called master, Hyrince starts drinking his own tea without waiting for me to start first.

Meanwhile, Yaana turns red and storms out of the room after having enough of his teasing.

“Oh, some children have such short tempers.”

Hyrince can’t suppress a grin.

“That’s not very nice.”

“I can’t help it; she’s just so fun to tease.”

I sigh as my childhood friend cackles evilly.

“There’s really no need to keep provoking her, now that we know what sort of person she is…”

Originally, Hyrince teased Yaana only to gauge her temperament and feel her out.

He might seem simple and frank, but at heart, he’s more thoughtful, diligent, and sincere than anything else. Not many people know this side of him.

Hyrince’s usual attitude seems to come so naturally that you’d have to be incredibly observant to realize it’s all a facade.

And since he’s always putting on an act himself, he’s gotten very good at figuring out when other people are lying or pretending.

Once Hyrince tested Yaana by deliberately provoking her multiple times, he concluded that Yaana’s personality wasn’t a facade, and we figured she was just being herself.

“…So why did the pontiff appoint Yaana as the saint, then?”

The position of saint is decided by appointment according to the pontiff and cardinals of the Word of God. Since the pontiff has so much sway over the Church, I’m sure he has a major say in the final decision.

If he wanted someone who would keep an eye on me, I’m sure there are other candidates better suited for that role.

I hate to say it, but I don’t think Yaana is crafty enough to do that kind of thing, and I haven’t seen her ever try so far, either.

“Maybe they figured it’d be preferable to not put a collar on you if they don’t need to? Something along those lines?”

Hyrince sips his tea with such measured ease that it’s hard to believe he’s really the same age as I am.

When Hyrince isn’t putting on his act, he looks incredibly mature.

The fact that he’s already grown taller than most kids our age only enhances that effect.

Though to those who don’t know his real nature, he probably just looks like a brawny know-it-all.

“I’m sure the pontiff doesn’t really want to get on your bad side. So he probably picked a saint who would be a good ally to you. She’s honest, easy to read, but still very talented. Plus, she’s got a strong sense of justice, just like yours. Considering what a good match she is for you, it’s actually a pretty thoughtful choice, don’t you think?”

Hyrince’s analysis is consistent with my own thoughts on the matter: The pontiff was likely being deeply considerate of me when he chose the saint.

Maybe he realized that I don’t feel like I can trust him, and he decided to try to improve our relationship.

Yaana might be a peace offering of sorts.

“Julius, the pontiff isn’t your enemy. There’s no harm in being cautious of him, but if you’re too paranoid, it’ll only make things harder for you, you know?”

“Yeah…I guess you’re right.”

At Hyrince’s remark, I realize that I might’ve been subconsciously treating the pontiff as a hostile entity.

“You’re right. I can’t get my foes and allies mixed up. I’m not fighting the pontiff.”

I say it point by point, as if trying to convince myself.

But then Hyrince shrugs and adds, “Although that old man always makes me feel like I’m being hoodwinked.”

The pontiff’s gentle yet deceptive smile comes to mind.

If he knew all of this would happen and sent Yaana as a calculated move, then I’m probably playing into his hands yet again.

And I have good reason to believe that’s the case, since it’s happened before.

…He’s not an enemy, but I still can’t quite bring myself to like him.

I close the door.

Then I turn away, giving in to the feeling of helplessness for a moment.

Beyond the door at my back, the commanders sent from each nation for the task force are gathered.

With so many different nations participating, there is a great host of soldiers to manage, so each group has been dispatched with a well-known general from their respective lands.

These commanders have come here with the pride of their countries at stake.

We just finished holding a meeting with all of them.

And I’ll be standing above them as the high commander.

My heart pounded with nerves at the weight and responsibility of my role as I braced myself for the meeting.

But the result was far from what I expected.

No one, not a single person, looked at me once the actual planning began.

The only time I spoke throughout the entire meeting was to introduce myself.

Then I listened to the commanders’ introductions, and as soon as they started discussing specific strategies, I was pushed out of the room.

No one considered me to be in charge at all.

Not a real leader, just someone who happens to fill that post while possessing the title of Hero.

I remember how the various commanders looked at me the second I entered the room. They expected nothing from me, as if they were glancing at a pebble on the side of the road.

Nobody said anything of the sort to me, of course.

When I introduced myself, they all responded with respect.

But I could still tell, whether I wanted to or not.

To them, I’m nothing more than a figurehead.

I might be the hero, and the prince of a major kingdom, but they saw me as nothing more than a child.

Instead of shouldering the heavy weight of my role as high commander, I wasn’t even given a chance. It was painfully clear that nobody wanted me to.

Beyond that door, the commanders are discussing the force’s next moves.

I’m supposed to be in charge, yet I’m not even present for the discussion.

It’s not as though they physically forced me out, but once they said things like “you can leave the rest to us,” it was hard to feel welcome in my seat.

Forcing the issue and staying would have accomplished nothing but lowering their appraisal of me from a reasonable figurehead to an unreasonable, troublesome child.

I have to be patient.

The commanders and I have only just met.

They have no reason to trust me yet.

Plenty of chances for that will come soon enough.

I have to close the distance between us, little by little.

There’s no need to panic.

All in due time.

“It’s fine. We’re still only getting started.”

I cling to my scarf as I try to reassure myself.

No one will hear me through that thick door.

My grip slackens, and I walk back to my room.

Then, a few days later, the task force sets out on its first expedition.

“Hey, we’re heading into battle now, right?”

“Um. Yeah. I guess.”

My response to Hyrince’s question is slow and uncertain, but you’ll have to forgive me.

I can’t help but have my doubts about the situation.

This is the special task force’s preliminary mission.

Since it’ll be our first battle as a unit, and there’s still some anxiety about how good our coordination will be, we’re starting with a nearby area where the human-trafficking organization’s presence is relatively low to minimize potential losses.

But even so, is this really the right thing to do?

“Feels more like a sightseeing trip than anything else.”

I agree with Hyrince’s candid observation, though I don’t say so out loud.

We’re supposed to be tracking down and defeating a covert group of traffickers…and yet, here we are in a fancy carriage.

There are knights on horseback surrounding us, as if they’re supposed to guard us.

No, not “as if.” That’s exactly what they’re doing.

Judging by our carriage alone, no one would ever guess that I’m supposed to be the in command of this entire force.

It must look more like some fancy noble or royal is coming along on vacation.

This carriage sticks out like a sore thumb, milling about in the middle of an imposing army on the march.

“There you go again!”

Sitting next to Hyrince, Yaana frowns at him.

“The commanders of the force prepared this carriage specifically for Sir Hero! To complain about it is akin to rejecting their kindness!”

She’s right, of course.

And yet…

“You say that, but…do you really think that so-called kindness is for Julius’s sake?”

At Hyrince’s sharp retort, Yaana opens her mouth, then falls silent.

Seems like, deep down, she’s not thrilled about this situation, either.

That’s a bit of a relief.

I’m sure there are plenty of commoners who would love to ride in a carriage like this.

Hyrince and I are an upper-crust noble and royalty, respectively, even if our positions are unusual. We’re used to this kind of treatment, but Yaana isn’t.

From what I understand, candidates for sainthood undergo strict training from childhood and are cut off from much of the world.

If anything, I thought she might be more excited about experiencing this kind of luxury than even a commoner might be.

We haven’t known each other for long, but I admit that her straightforward personality made me suspect that would be the case.

At the same time, she also has a strong sense of responsibility, so I didn’t think she’d make a big fuss or anything.

Surprisingly, though, she seems to feel as uncomfortable in this situation as we do.

It turns out there are certain things you can’t learn about a person without spending a good deal of time with them.

I suppose that means I have to keep communicating with others as well to get a better idea of their character and, over time, find more people I can trust.

“Um, well, you know. Maybe standing out like this will make the masses feel safer or something?”

Yaana finally squeezes out an answer, but Hyrince simply snorts.

“Commoners aren’t stupid. If the point was to make people feel safe, they’d make a show of military might. You can already tell how many skilled people are in this force at a glance. I don’t see any reason to put only Julius—the high commander—in a fancy carriage like this.”

Considering how she doesn’t attempt to raise any argument, it seems like even Yaana knows that was a feeble excuse.

“If anything, using a carriage this conspicuous runs the risk of making the people even more anxious. They’ll look at it and wonder what we’re really up to, if we’re just traveling for sport.”

Hyrince smiles grimly.

We really did get dubious looks like that as we left the town.

The activities of the human-trafficking organization aren’t very widely publicized in this area.

It was natural that the townspeople who saw us setting off didn’t feel any sense of urgency or danger; they watched our procession like we were holding some kind of minor festivities.

But it’s not like there haven’t been any kidnappings here at all.

Most of the people were only watching us leave out of curiosity, but I did see a few people looking on as if praying for our success.

And the people who wore those expressions reacted all the more strongly when they saw this carriage.

Not in a good way, either.

Anxiety, disgust, resignation—those were the feelings that flashed across the faces of the people who spotted this ostentatious thing we’re riding in.

Seeing the looks on their faces made it all that much clearer how out of place the whole arrangement is.

But still…

“Even if they were able to see us, their reaction would probably be the same.”

I’m not especially trying to agree with Yaana, but I do have a thought that conflicts slightly with Hyrince’s take.

We’re kids.

Hero, saint, or whatever else we might be, it doesn’t change the fact that we’re children.

The people who are distressed about the human-trafficking organization probably wouldn’t react any better to seeing us going along with the soldiers than they did to seeing our carriage.

Because either way, we definitely don’t look reliable.

“That much is true. We are kids and all. Although I still feel like there must’ve been a better way to do this.”

Hyrince sighs and sinks deeply into his seat.

“That’s not true! Even if he is a child, Sir Hero is still a striking figure! No one could look at him and feel ill at ease! Of that I’m certain!” Yaana clenches her fists earnestly as she protests. “Anyone who would fail to recognize Sir Hero’s gravitas must be blind! Just look at how cool and handsome he is!”

I can’t help but stare at her blankly.

Even Hyrince is so stunned that he sits there blinking, forgetting to tease her for once.

Realizing from our reactions the significance of what she’s just said, Yaana turns bright red.

“P-please forget I said anything!”

She covers her face with her hands.

“Uh-huh…”

Recovering from his shock, Hyrince starts to smirk wickedly.

Normally, since Yaana can’t contend with Hyrince in a verbal battle, she tends to flee when the tide turns against her. Unfortunately, we’re currently in a carriage. There’s nowhere to run.

“Waaah!”

As if trying to escape his evil clutches nonetheless, Yaana retreats to the far end of the seat and curls up in the corner.

There are no words to describe the look on Hyrince’s face as he attempts to suppress his laughter.

“Wah! Eek!”

“Oof!”

Just then, the carriage bounces with a thunk.

Sitting in her strange position, Yaana loses her balance and almost topples out of her seat, so I hurry to catch her.

“Are you okay?”

“Y-yes, thank you…”

Yaana’s face turns even redder.

Between her previous outburst and this new development, she’s gone positively crimson.

Then, at the worst possible moment, the carriage door bangs open.

“…We’ve arrived.”

The soldier who opens the door stares at us with a dreadful expression.

I can see his thoughts written clearly on his face: Do these kids think this is a game?

…Maybe we don’t really have any right to complain about the appearance of our carriage after all.

The expedition went incredibly smoothly, at least on paper.

The members of the human-trafficking organization in this area were inferior to the task force in both skill and numbers.

Since their hideout had already been discovered beforehand, they put up very little resistance once our forces arrived and took over the place…or so I’m told.

We didn’t actually get to see this with our own eyes.

We were made to wait a considerable distance away, surrounded by guards.

Not long after, our carriage returns to town.

I can hear the cheers welcoming us back, but it does nothing to lift my spirits.

To an extent, I’d expected things to be something like this, but I was still ashamed to be so blatantly treated as a purely ornamental figurehead.

I know that a child like me could never take command of a group of seasoned officers, of course.

They might be stronger than I am in combat, too, even though I’m the hero.

But still, I’m sure there must’ve been something I could have done.

Yet, I was forced to sit in a carriage the whole way there and back.

At this rate, there’s no point in me being here at all.

Can I really go on like this?

Do I have no choice but to wait until I finally amount to something?

“Hmm? What’s going on?”

As I’m lost in thought, Hyrince peers out in front of the carriage. I follow his gaze and see that we’ve stopped our advance.

Accordingly, our carriage slows to a halt.

“Did something happen?” Hyrince asks one of the guards.

“It would appear some of the locals have approached us.”

“What, are they trying to cause trouble? Give me a break.”

Hyrince grunts irritably. This first expedition must have stressed him out as well.

But I’m more concerned about the situation up ahead.

“I’ll be right back.”

“Huh? Hey, wait a minute!”

I open the door and jump down, heading toward the source of the commotion.

It’s not long before I can make out voices.

“Did you find my daughter?!”

“Our son is safe, isn’t he?!”

“Where are the kidnapped children?!”

Some of the townspeople crowd around the soldiers, asking for the whereabouts of the children who went missing.

But the soldiers simply exchange glances with one another and refuse to answer.

“Come on! Tell us! What happened?!”

“Where is my child? Is he safe?!”

The attitude the soldiers take seems to unnerve the locals, whose questions grow even more frantic.

Yes, the expedition to root out the local branch of the human-trafficking organization went smoothly.

At least it did on paper.

But when we broke into the hideout, the kidnapped children were nowhere to be found.

And we have no idea where they might have been taken.

Some documents were recovered from the hideout, but there’s no telling if we’ll get any useful information from studying them.

Looking at our returning force, it’s easy to see the captured survivors of the human-trafficking organization being marched along, but it’s equally obvious that the kidnapped children aren’t with us.

The families of the victims, who were placing all their hopes on us, obviously want answers.

“We’ll announce the details later. For now, out of the way.”

One of the commanders tries to chase them off, but I quickly step in.

“Wait. Please.”

“Sir Hero?”

The officer looks at me doubtfully, with an expression that contains a trace of irritation that can’t be completely hidden.

In those eyes, I’m only a child who shouldn’t be involving myself in this situation.

But I can’t just mindlessly appease other people.

“We’ve taken care of all the criminals who were hiding out in this area.”

I step in front of the villagers and start to speak.

Their expressions soften slightly when I announce that the organization has been eradicated from the area.

But…there’s more.

I have no choice but to tell them.

“But the people who were kidnapped were no longer in their hideout when we arrived.”

Even if we staved them off here, they would’ve found out soon enough.

“No…”

“Does that mean…you were…too late…?”

Silence. And then…

“Damn you!”

“How could you do this?! Answer me!”

Outrage.

The villagers surge forward as if to strike me, and the soldiers scramble to hold them back.

“Sir Hero, what have you done?!”

The commander grabs my shoulder, looking frustrated at my insolence.

But I shake off the hand.

At the same time, one woman breaks through the wall of soldiers and rushes up to me.

The commander tries to step in front of me immediately, but I raise a hand to let her through.

With tears in her eyes, the woman brings her palm down to strike me.

But I catch her hand before the blow lands.

“I’m afraid we didn’t get there in time.”

I can’t let her hit me, even if I sympathize.

Once, back in the ruins of Keren County in Sariella, I allowed the survivors to take out their anger on me, making no attempt to resist their violence.

But Mr. Tiva admonished me for that.

Hitting me would only make them feel better for a few moments.

Soon enough, their hands would hurt, and their hearts would ache from the guilt.

The person who throws the punch and the person who receives it are both left with only pain.

Mr. Tiva explained to me then that it’s important not to let people hit me at times like these.

“We will continue to chase down the organization. I cannot promise you that we’ll find those who were kidnapped. But I can at least promise you that we will never give up.”

I can’t make vows lightly.

For all we know, it could very well already be too late to save the victims.

But we must do everything in our power until the moment their fates become clear.

That much I can promise.

I let go of the woman’s hand, and she breaks down sobbing.

Building up my reputation, feeling frustrated over my uselessness… How could I have gotten hung up on such useless ideas?

What am I?

I’m a hero.

And it’s a hero’s job to help people who are suffering!

I can’t believe I forgot the most important thing of all.

I don’t know if my words satisfied any of them.

But the townspeople slowly withdraw from the road, their anger retreating.

Even the woman who had fallen to her knees weeping stands up and shuffles away.

And as she does so, she murmurs, “I’m sorry.”

Mr. Tiva was right. I made the correct choice.

“Sir Hero, we cannot have you simply doing as you please.”

Once things calm down, the commander starts to scold me.

“There is no reason for you to face the anger of the public.”

“That’s not true,” I respond simply. “I am the high commander of this expedition. I have a responsibility to hear them out. Even if I am just a figurehead, I am still in charge.”

At that, the officer sucks in a breath.

“We didn’t make it in time. Yes, since we broke up the hideout, the threat here has been eliminated. But we weren’t able to undo what has already been done. That is reality.”

“But our duty is not—”

“Yes, strictly speaking, that is not our duty. But even so…we failed.”

Part 1 of 8

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