Chapter 12: The Arrogant Noble

The applause finally subsided, and I allowed myself to contemplate my new title as Hero of Chalm. As curiosity got the better of me, I decided to delve into the intricacies of my newfound job. With a mere thought, I changed my job from White Mage to Hero, and at that moment, a new skill was bestowed upon me – Return.

But the practicality of my skills remained in question. Could I use my abilities without having my job equipped? A small experiment confirmed that I needed to switch back to my White Mage job to cast spells. The Refresh spell proved particularly invigorating, leaving me awake and alert. I made a mental note to remember this powerful spell.

As I pondered the implications of my skills, the mayor resumed speaking, addressing the pressing matter of the dungeon that had appeared near Chalm a month ago. A previous attempt to investigate the dungeon by a stronger party had ended in failure, and it was suspected that the undead onslaught was linked to the dungeon's ominous presence.

The idea of sending another scouting party was met with skepticism, as it might invite a more substantial attack if the dungeon's forces were allowed to amass. Thus, it was unanimously agreed that the dungeon needed to be destroyed. This called for the intervention of dungeon divers, individuals skilled in exploring and conquering such treacherous places.

Amid the discussion, a voice rang out from the entrance, interrupting the deliberations. A man, adorned in extravagant clothing and exuding arrogance, declared himself as Lord Tibult, a noble passing through. He boldly offered to solve the dungeon problem and become Chalm's hero.

However, the sight that accompanied Lord Tibult was troubling. Behind him were three animal kin, two men of middle age and a young girl, each sporting collars around their necks, denoting some form of servitude. The girl carried a cumbersome pack on her back, her downtrodden expression hinting at a difficult life.

The mayor's expression twitched, unimpressed by the self-proclaimed savior. "And what proof do you have of your capabilities, Lord Tibult?"

"Proof? My noble lineage is proof enough! Such tasks are beneath me, but I shall extend my magnanimous hand and rid you of your dungeon predicament," Lord Tibult proclaimed with haughty confidence.

The atmosphere grew tense, the townsfolk uneasy at the noble's condescending demeanor. They were not accustomed to such arrogance, especially in the face of adversity.

I hesitated, unsure of my place in this confrontation. My new status as Hero of Chalm felt shaky, and I questioned my ability to confront Lord Tibult. Nonetheless, my instincts urged me to speak out.

"Lord Tibult, the people of Chalm may have already found their hero. I have accepted the position bestowed upon me, and I shall fulfill my duty to protect this town," I asserted firmly.

The noble scoffed, his mustache twitching with disdain. "A White Mage with delusions of grandeur, I see. How amusing. Step aside, child. This is a matter best left to nobles."

I bristled at his dismissive tone. Though I was an outsider, I had come to appreciate Chalm's people and their acceptance of me. I could not allow this arrogant noble to dismiss their gratitude and loyalty.

"Lord Tibult, it is not the nobility that defines a hero, but their actions and willingness to protect those in need. If you truly wish to aid Chalm, you should do so with humility and sincerity, not with arrogance and conceit," I retorted.

The animalkin behind Lord Tibult raised their heads, seemingly surprised by my boldness. The girl's eyes held a glimmer of hope, an emotion I could not ignore.

The mayor, observing the exchange, intervened. "Enough! Chalm shall decide its hero. If Lord Tibult truly wishes to assist, he can prove his worth alongside our White Mage."

A challenge had been issued, and the fate of Chalm's future hung in the balance. With the animalkin's eyes on me, and the town's hopes resting on my shoulders, I could not back down. It was time to show that a true hero could emerge from even the unlikeliest of circumstances.