Taking on others' expectations, bearing the responsibilities assigned, confronting danger, overcoming hardships, and embracing challenges.
Dangers were not uncommon, and losing one's life along the way was nothing surprising. In the most extreme cases, one might face the situation of having exhausted all efforts yet failing to save anyone, enduring others' disappointment, blame, and scorn, as well as the harsh judgement of one's own conscience.
Such was the burden that a so-called hero must bear.
Having already understood these truths, I had also believed myself to be fully prepared.
However.
However.
However—!
"What on earth is this?"
The veins at my temples throbbed, my gaze shifting to the side where Richelieu, who claimed to have a bulletproof old face, blushed for the first time in ages.
"This… um… that's a hobby item left in my care by one of my subordinates?"
Subordinate?! Left in your care?! And a hobby item?!!