kscans

Chapter 19 - The Shadow of the Reincarnated Hero Falls

"...You're kidding, right...?"

Having completed their mission to protect the spring, Mamoru and his companions received a report from the elf tribe's elder, Finaris. No one could find the words to respond to its contents.

"The chief of the Lizardman tribe, Talg-the-Vine... and also the chieftain of the Orc Tribe, Grago... we've received word that they were defeated by the hero."

Amy's shoulders trembled, and she fell to her knees.

"...Grandfather... no..."

Defray clenched his fists.

"I can't believe it... both chieftains were strong... a hero wouldn't have to...!"

Mamoru remained silent, reading through the report. The detailed records noted a certain characteristic.

"A sword of light in one hand, a spear of lightning in the other. A phantom wearing a 'blue uniform' on its back..."

"The meaning of its words was unclear. But there is testimony that it said things like 'this is a game' and 'a quick clear'."

"...So it's true, after all."

Everyone turned their eyes to Mamoru's voice.

"It's a new hero, one who has just been reincarnated. He probably hasn't even gotten used to this world yet."

"Even so... to defeat two chieftains... the difference in power is just too great..."

Amy looked down, biting her lip.

"This is a hero... a calamity chosen by humans...!"

Tiris stood up quietly.

"...Are you going to fight the hero?"

Mamoru closed his eyes and answered briefly.

"Yeah, I'll fight. He trampled on our pride. I have no intention of running away."

"You are monsters, and it should be a hopeless fight against a hero. So why go so far...?"

"Because that's my conviction."

Tiris's eyes wavered at Mamoru's voice.

"I won't just assume that heroes are justice and monsters are evil. No matter who takes a life, we have a reason to grieve. That much... should be something I can believe in, right?"

Silence fell.

After a while, Tiris let out a small sigh.

"...I was taught that monsters are a plague upon humanity. I always believed that was right. But... watching you, I'm starting to not know anymore. I shouldn't trust you... but my heart wavers."

She sheathed her sword and walked over to Mamoru.

"I have a condition for joining you."

"A condition?"

"...If you fight the hero and still prove that you will not bend your conviction, then I will entrust my sword to your back. Until then, I will be an observer. Neither an enemy nor an ally."

Mamoru smiled slightly and nodded.

"I don't mind. I'll do as I please."

Tiris smiled faintly.

"...Well then, do your best to sway my heart. Mr. Goblin Captain."

On a night when the moon quietly illuminated the forest, Mamoru carved a new resolve into his heart in a world where a shadow had begun to fall.

End of Chapter Three