Episode 8: You Are My Hero
“Believe it or not, I had a cute phase too. When I was a child, I seriously wanted to become a hero who could save everyone.”
Anon chuckled with a self-deprecating laugh, a sound different from their usual playful demeanor.
“Not to brag, but I could do anything. I was hailed as a prodigy. Whether it was studying, magic, or martial arts, once I started, I quickly caught up to my teachers and even surpassed them. I often wondered, ‘Why are the so-called experts in their fields only at this level?'”
I, on the other hand, was clumsy and always needed time to master things I couldn’t do. The view he saw was likely different from the one I was experiencing.
“But sadly, no matter how talented I was, as I grew older, I was forced to understand that becoming a hero was impossible. So, I decided I would become someone who could support heroes in the future. And I had the talent and ability to achieve that.”
“You did become one, didn’t you? Setting aside whether you’re actually supporting a hero or not, I think you’re one of the most capable people I’ve met in this world.”
His keen deduction that I was Yamada the Holy Knight, his ability to gather necessary information, his remarkable memory, and his judgment to utilize that data effectively were all impressive.
That wasn’t all. The fact that he had prepared a means of transportation, anticipating my immediate return to him, made it believable that he possessed foresight.
“I’m glad to hear that. While I often get told I’m ‘talented,’ what you just said might be the most uplifting compliment I’ve received.”
“That’s a bit exaggerated.”
“No, it’s not exaggerated at all…”
Anon murmured, “Well, that’s fine,” and continued speaking.
“I can do almost anything, but there are always those who are better. As I grew up, I finally realized that the ceiling was far above me. I understood that I couldn’t reach it. For example, I can’t use Healing Magic, and even with my swordsmanship, which I pride myself on, I can’t defeat a Sword Saint. When it comes to magic, I wouldn’t even compare to the Mage of the Hero Party.”
“But with all that you can do, you don’t need to be the best in every field, right?”
“That might be true.”
“But,” Anon continued, “back then, I didn’t think that way. I could do everything, but if I couldn’t be the best, I thought I should focus on the areas where I excelled the most. That was my intellect, my information-gathering skills, and my judgment in utilizing that information.”
“And that’s how you became the Anon you are now.”
“Exactly,” Anon nodded. Hidden beneath the hood, I couldn’t see their expression, but their gaze was undoubtedly fixed on my eyes.
“When you said, ‘If you see someone in trouble when you grow up, help them out. That’s what life is about,’ it really struck a chord with me.”
“Yeah,” I replied.
“I was truly moved by your words. How can I express this feeling… I want to convey my genuine feelings to you, but it’s so frustrating that I can’t find the right words.”
They clasped their hands in the air and brought them to their chest.
“As I approached the person I am now, I learned that there are hopeless individuals in this world. I discovered that there are nobles who oppress the people. I learned that there are villains disguised as the weak. I found out that there are monstrous people who cannot understand the hearts of others. Evil exists in as many forms as there are people.”
Hearing their story, I thought it was inevitable. Sadly, there are indeed people who are beyond help.
“When I realized this, I became someone who doubted and despised others. I completely forgot my original purpose, the reason I started. I once strongly wished to help the innocent people suffering, even if it meant throwing away everything I had…”
“That’s understandable.”
“Yes, but that’s why you, who helped everyone without asking for anything in return, not even revealing your name, shone so brightly to me. Unintentionally, you embodied the hero I wanted to become.”
“That’s not such a grand thing. I just did what I wanted to do.”
“Now I understand. A profession is merely a parameter, just a title. Just because someone is a hero doesn’t mean they are the hero from the storybooks I once loved—the one who risked their life to protect all the people.”
“I think so too, Anon.”
Anon waited for my words.
“In the end, what matters is our hearts.”
Once, I had a similar conversation with her. Now she was no longer by my side, but my feelings hadn’t changed.
“What we hold within our hearts, the core of our being that rejects any outside interference—that is what I believe to be the most important thing.”
Anon seemed to be desperately searching for words. And then, eventually—
“You are my hero, Ichiro.”
Ah, they let out a sob. I waited until they calmed down.
“Sorry for showing such an embarrassing side of myself.”
“Not at all.”
I too had my moments of tears.
“I have something I want to ask.”
“Sure. If I can answer, I will.”
“Did you conquer the Seven Labyrinths?”
“…Yeah. I conquered three with my companions. The remaining four, I tackled alone.”
“Ichiro, you did well.”
I never thought there would be anyone besides Sena and Sensei who believed in me. It felt like a miracle.
“I just did what I could.”
I tried to sound a bit cool. There were plenty of times I complained while diving into the Labyrinths.
Anon shook their shoulders again for a moment, then let out a soft sigh. In a wet voice, they said,
“Ichiro, from now on, I will become your companion.”
“Thanks, I appreciate it.”
Anon stood up from the bed, came over to me, and extended their hand.
“Don’t hesitate to rely on me. From now on, I will be your friend and ally.”
I took their hand. It was slightly cool and smooth.
“Yeah, nice to meet you.”
As it was getting late, I declined their invitation to “chat more” and returned to my room. After my exchange with Anon, I felt a light, floating sensation similar to being intoxicated by fine wine.
I never thought there would be someone who would stand by me, knowing my true identity, besides Sena and Sensei.
Anon wanted to talk a lot more with me. I also wanted to hear many stories from them.
Tonight, it seemed like it would take a while for me to fall asleep.
And thus, this chapter comes to an end.
From here on, the protagonist will gradually gather more companions.
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