Chapter 45: The Promised Future of Victory for Hero Ryuguin VI
“How are you feeling, Hero-kun?”
Ryuguin shot a piercing glare at Cardinal Gilbert.
“…It’s the worst.”
In response to Ryuguin’s reaction, Cardinal Gilbert began to speak.
“Many of those in the Klaatel Church are genuinely pure-hearted, claiming, ‘It would be great if everyone could be happy.’ But I see things a bit differently. Of course, I want everyone to be happy, but that’s secondary.”
Then, what is the primary concern?
“I wish for the people around me to live healthily and happily first. If that spreads out and results in many people finding happiness, then that would be a dream come true.”
On Cardinal Gilbert’s face, there was not just anger but also a clear sign of exhaustion. It seemed more mental than physical.
“I consider those who belong to the church to be my family.”
Ryuguin lowered his gaze.
“You’ve done terrible things to many Sisters, haven’t you?”
“I-I did.”
Unable to lie, Ryuguin acknowledged Cardinal Gilbert’s question.
“Haro from Lemone was truly a good girl. That earnest child was so devoted to austerity that she wore patched-up clothes time and again. She would say, ‘I don’t need new clothes; please buy them for the poor.’ She acted entirely for the sake of others, yet never once did she show a pained expression. On the contrary, her innocent cheerfulness was irreplaceable. No matter how troubled someone was, being by her side warmed their heart. Haro was like the sun.”
He seemed to be lost in thought.
“I realized too late. After learning about her, I investigated the church where you all stayed. And what I found was overwhelming. I cursed my own foolishness. Jane, Cass, Kate, and everyone else were just mere extras to you, mere objects of desire, weren’t they?”
“Do you understand?” Gilbert asked, continuing without waiting for a response.
“I’m angry. So this is a revenge that is unbecoming of a clergyman. I don’t know how to act like you do. Earlier, you asked us, ‘How can you do such terrible things?’ I want to ask you the same. Why are you so insensitive to others’ pain? Why do you act so selfishly?”
Ryuguin maintained his silence.
“Silence is golden, huh? Well, whatever. The six shackles I’ve given you are a gift from us for your future.”
“What kind of gift is that?! This is a violation of human rights!!”
He must have imagined what his future would be like. Ryuguin’s hatred completely overshadowed his fear. However, Cardinal Gilbert continued speaking without concern.
“Now, let’s get to the main topic regarding your treatment…”
Time seemed to stop for Ryuguin. I was also taken aback. This isn’t the end, is it?
“You’ve been doing as you please under the pretense of conquering the seven newly constructed ultimate labyrinths. So let’s make that a reality.”
Ryuguin asked, “Huh?”
“In other words, while it’s not enough for seven, I’m thinking of entrusting you with part of the conquest of the remaining five labyrinths. While the effect of your ‘Limit Break’ isn’t permanent, your rare skill of ‘Growth Rate x5’ will surely make you a top-tier warrior in no time.”
“Why should I?! Why do I have to work that hard?!”
Ryuguin raised his voice in protest against Cardinal Gilbert’s proposal. Seeing his reaction, Cardinal Gilbert raised his hand. It was a signal. The preparations had long been completed.
“[Oath of Loyalty (Pridephobia)]”
A pillar of light rose right next to Ryuguin.
“This time, I intentionally missed. The current light is a warning against acting arrogantly. If you make any more dismissive comments about others like you just did, we will increase your shackles.”
Feeling Cardinal Gilbert’s resolve, Ryuguin muttered something under his breath.
“Why do I have to go through this? I thought coming to another world would grant me amazing skills, make me invincible, allow me to create a harem, and bring my knowledge to be adored and recognized by everyone, making everything go smoothly!”
Those were foolish, nonsensical words. Unable to hold back, Gilbert burst into laughter.
“What’s so funny? Are you laughing at me?”
Cardinal Gilbert spoke soothingly to the wide-eyed Ryuguin.
“You really are foolish. I know someone who has achieved almost everything you just mentioned.”
Ryuguin retorted, “It’s probably someone I don’t know.” Then Cardinal Gilbert laughed again.
“Of course, it’s someone you know. The answer is simple: it’s Holy Knight-kun, who was summoned alongside you.”
Oh come on, stop it. This isn’t a harem. I haven’t done anything lewd. In fact, I haven’t done anything shameful at all. I haven’t even used knowledge cheats. Instead, I almost died from eating poisonous mushrooms and got swindled by old men at the market.
“He was devoted to righteousness and earnest in everything, unlike you.”
To change the subject, Cardinal Gilbert said, “Well, that’s not important.” It’s not okay. I’d be happy to be praised.
“Hero-kun will be responsible for part of the conquest of the newly constructed ultimate labyrinths. This has already been decided. You can refuse if you want, but in that case, you’ll become a part for the bio-golem we’re currently researching. Using a hero as material, we could create a truly powerful golem.”
Ryuguin gasped, his breath hitching.
“You can try to escape while we’re not looking. We’ve already collected your individual data, including your mana. Of course, that information is also registered in our tracking items. Whether you try to run or not, we swear to pursue you to the ends of the earth. As soon as we find you, you’ll become a part of the bio-golem—”
The mere mention of becoming a part for the bio-golem was a powerful word.
“W-why?! I’m a hero!! I’m a hero!!”
Ryuguin cried out, tears streaming down his face, but Cardinal Gilbert ignored it and continued to outline the plans.
“Next, you’ll need to equip some items we’ve prepared for you. After that, you’ll join the personnel who have been waiting for you and return to Lemone. Then, Hero-kun, you will first conquer the Labyrinth of Time.”
Upon hearing Cardinal Gilbert’s words,
“Why?! Why is this happening?! Someone! Help meeeeeee!!”
Ryuguin cried out loudly, weeping uncontrollably.
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And thus, Ryuguin’s story comes to a close.
Thank you for your long-standing companionship.
I can only express my gratitude to everyone who has read this far…
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And now, I must promote something, so please forgive me!
The paper version of the comic adaptation of this work will be released on November 19th! Both volumes 1 and 2 will be released simultaneously!
We’re just ten days away now…!!
It includes Ichiro’s utterly despairing face and the stunning figure of Angelica! I hope everyone will pick it up!