Konbini Ossan Volume 1 Chapter 11 – Status Check
After receiving Marceline’s explanation, I was gathered with the other heroes in the audience chamber of the royal palace.
Apparently, once the initial explanations were done, each summoned person would be formally appointed as a hero here and given their mission.
To treat summoned outsiders like personal vassals immediately — how elitist. It practically reeks of the sentiment that lower people can be used however one sees fit.
“Now then, heroes. You’ve already heard the situation, but I’ll reiterate it once more.”
The speaker was an older gentleman, seated on the throne and wearing a crown — clearly the king, though he rubbed me the wrong way, so I’ll just call him geezer.
“In the past, our kingdom and the Demon Nation once walked hand in hand, striving toward peace and unity.
…
We promised to create a nation that transcended racial boundaries and pooled our strengths.
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However! Ten years ago, they betrayed us! Marching from the Monster Forest with their armies of monsters, they slaughtered our people living near the border.
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Even now, many of our lands remain occupied, and humans suffer cruel oppression at their hands! Such barbaric and treacherous acts must not be forgiven!”
The geezer launched into a passionate speech, but the content sounded rather suspicious. His version of events was far too convenient for the Rungald Kingdom.
No matter how wicked the Demon Nation supposedly is, it’s highly unlikely they would just launch a sudden massacre with no provocation.
More likely, some kind of diplomatic incident spiraled out of control, eventually triggering the war.
But admitting that would mean acknowledging fault on their own side, so they’re probably covering it up — especially in front of the heroes.
After all, the heroes are outsiders. If they don’t view the Demon Nation as evil incarnate, there’s no guarantee they’ll lend their strength.
That’s why the kingdom is feeding them this slanted narrative — to manipulate them into compliance.
I also noticed that the adults who were summoned with us were absent. Anyone educated in modern Japan could easily see through this kind of propaganda.
It’s likely they’ve been isolated so they don’t raise any objections. Or perhaps they’re being "persuaded" elsewhere right now.
In that sense, I’m really glad that Marceline was the one who explained things to me.
While I was deep in thought, the geezer’s speech seemed to have concluded.
“And so, we ask for your power, heroes. Of course, as we seek your aid, we shall offer fitting rewards. Whatever you desire — if it is within our means, we shall provide it.”
"Money, power, women — you name it, you can have it. Just lend us your strength." That’s the subtext.
For impulsive, self-indulgent kids, it’s all too easy to fall for that.
Even if a few resist, numbers matter. If the majority side with the kingdom, any lone dissenter will be isolated and crushed.
In an unfamiliar world with no allies, it’s only natural for them to cling to their classmates — the only familiar faces around.
Even if deep down they sense the danger, they’ll follow along with the others. Peer pressure can be a powerful weapon.
Still, there’s a glimmer of hope: the four students with Unique titles — the true heroes.
If they refuse the king’s request, there’s a chance the others can avoid being dragged into the war. Unfortunately… that chance seems slim.
Kanehama-kun is glowing with righteous enthusiasm.
Mimori-san looks determined, clearly convinced by the king’s speech.
Toudou-kun is cracking his neck with excitement, ready for action.
Only Matsuriya-kun wears a bitter expression. But he’s just one person — too few to stand against the kingdom. He likely knows that, which is why he looks so frustrated.
It doesn’t seem like things will go in a better direction.
“Now then, our pact is sealed. From this day forth, we are of one body and mind. Together, let us strike down the vile demons and liberate the suffering humans of the desecrated lands!”
“Count on me! If people are suffering, of course we’re going to help!”
“Yes. If we’ve been given this power, it’s our responsibility to use it.”
“Heh… Can’t wait to test my strength!”
“If you all say so, then I have no objection…”
Each of the four answered the king’s proclamation with their own words. Soon after, the rest of the heroes also raised their voices in resolve.
A dangerous situation, to say the least. It’s like watching eager young workers being exploited for their motivation.
“Now then, before we conclude, there is one more thing. We place great hope in your power.
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But without understanding the nature of that power, it is difficult to guide you appropriately or provide proper support. Therefore, I ask you now to show us your strength.”
The heroes murmured anxiously. "Show your strength" — it almost sounded like they were being told to fight here and now.
“Oh no, don’t misunderstand. I’m not asking you to fight here. I merely want you to display your status.”
Ah, their status, huh? I didn’t expect that. So this really is a game-like world.
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E/N:
The Sage fell to peer pressure, what a shame. I've never liked those righteous types…
The geezer sounds like a two-bit villain. The kingdom has now gotten sympathy from the heroes. Disgusting!
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