Celeste_Thorn

Kai, an unmotivated Otaku, spends his days and nights lost in the world of anime, barely connecting with reality. His latest obsession, Eldren’s Wrath, is a dark fantasy series that explores themes of power, loyalty, and sacrifice in a world of fearsome creatures and relentless warriors. One fateful night, he dies unexpectedly while halfway through the series, only to awaken in its universe—reincarnated as a lowly, unremarkable NPC merchant in a rugged, hostile village on the outskirts of civilization.

It doesn’t take long for Kai to realize he’s hopelessly out of place. Surrounded by adventurers, knights, and monsters straight from Eldren’s Wrath, he knows his days are numbered unless he finds a way to gain strength quickly. Just when despair sets in, a mysterious System activates, presenting him with a harsh ultimatum: level up every day or face relentless penalties. The penalties range from losing his meager resources to physical punishments, with each missed requirement bringing him closer to a permanent death.

Reluctantly forced into grueling training regimens, Kai must now engage in daily quests, battle deadly creatures, and learn combat techniques. As he grows, he discovers that the System tracks his achievements through "Protagonist Points," hinting that if he collects enough, he may unlock the rare “Protagonist Rank.” Reaching this rank is the key to returning to his original world, but it requires him to embrace challenges worthy of a hero.

Twist: Every action Kai takes towards becoming a hero brings him closer to the fate of the series’ true protagonist, with whom he shares a mysterious connection. To truly earn his “Protagonist Rank,” Kai must not only surpass the original hero of Eldren’s Wrath but also unravel a prophecy that foresees a dark force linked to his past life. As his abilities grow, so do his responsibilities, ultimately pushing Kai to confront his deepest fears, forge alliances, and embrace his role in a world he once dismissed as fantasy.

Now, his lazy days are behind him as he battles for survival, allies, and the ultimate prize: a way back home. But will he still want to return when the time comes, or will he find a reason to stay in this world he once admired from afar?

Table of Otaku Grind: Rise of the Reluctant Hero

Table of contents

Volume 1