The sun hung high above the Kingdom of Rintaru, illuminating the landscape with a golden glow. Haruto looked around, marveling at how picturesque everything was. In fact, it felt like stepping straight into a video game, complete with over-the-top graphics and an upbeat soundtrack playing in his head. “Not bad for a fantasy world,” he murmured to himself.

“Hey, Misfit Hero!” Kaelaya interrupted, pulling him from his thoughts. “We need to get to the castle. The council will want to discuss the warlord situation.”

Haruto turned to her, feigning annoyance. “You know, I prefer my titles to be more dramatic. Something like ‘Haruto the Snack-Guardian’ has a nice ring to it, don’t you think?”

Sionora raised an eyebrow, her robes flowing as she stepped closer. “Snack-Guardian? Is that a type of magic?”

“Only the tastiest kind,” he answered, grinning widely.

Miora giggled gracefully, her presence adding an ethereal quality to the air. “You’re quite different from the heroes I’ve heard about. Most are serious, brooding types.”

“That’s just a character archetype,” Haruto replied, feeling a surge of confidence. “I prefer to enjoy life… and eat snacks.”

The group began walking toward the castle, and Haruto couldn’t help but notice how each step felt incredibly cinematic, like he was on an epic quest. “So, what’s the deal with this warlord, anyway?” he asked, trying to sound both curious and nonchalant.

“The warlord Hokkirus is ruthless,” Kaelaya explained, her expression hardening. “He commands shadow creatures and intends to conquer Rintaru. The council believes he’s after the ancient artifact hidden within the castle.”

“Let me guess,” Haruto interrupted, raising his hand theatrically. “That artifact is the only thing that can defeat him, right?”

“Actually, yes.” Kaelaya looked impressed, a slight smile breaking her serious demeanor. “You’re quick on the uptake.”

“Good, because I hate spoilers, and I want to figure out the plot myself,” he said, winking at Miora. “That’s how it’s done in my world!”

As they approached the majestic castle, the grand gates swung open, revealing a bustling courtyard filled with knights, mages, and townsfolk. Haruto felt like a celebrity walking into a convention, with eyes on him and whispers floating in the air. “Hey, everyone! It’s me! The Misfit Hero!” he shouted, throwing his arms wide.

Kaelaya rolled her eyes but secretly enjoyed the attention. “Do you have to announce yourself like that?”

This text was taken from Royal Road. Help the author by reading the original version there.

“It’s part of my charm, you know,” he replied, his eyes gleaming with mischief.

They entered the castle’s main hall, where a council of dignitaries sat at a long table. The head of the council, an elderly man with a wispy beard and spectacles that seemed too large for his face, cleared his throat. “Welcome, brave heroes. We have much to discuss.”

Haruto raised a hand, interrupting once again. “Before we start, can we get some snacks around here? A hero can’t fight on an empty stomach!”

The council members exchanged baffled glances. “Snacks?” one of them asked, bewildered.

“Yes! You know, food? Sustenance? I can’t focus on warlord plots without my trusty snacks!” Haruto exclaimed, as if it were the most logical thing in the world.

“Perhaps we should discuss the warlord first,” one councilor suggested, trying to regain control of the conversation.

“Fine, fine. But seriously, get the snacks, or I’m going to starve mid-adventure,” he replied, crossing his arms.

Miora snickered, clearly amused. “You’re certainly one of a kind, Haruto.”

The council began discussing the threat posed by Warlord Hokkirus, outlining potential strategies and defenses. While they spoke, Haruto found himself zoning out, his stomach growling audibly. “I swear, if they don’t bring out food soon, I might just turn to the dark side,” he muttered to Sionora, who was taking notes.

“Dark side?” Sionora glanced at him, surprised. “Do you mean you’ll join Hokkirus?”

“Please! I’ll just find a way to negotiate snacks instead of fighting,” he replied, smirking. “That could be my secret weapon.”

Eventually, after what felt like an eternity (but was actually just a few minutes), a servant entered with a platter of various foods—breads, fruits, and cookies! Haruto’s eyes lit up as if he’d found a hidden treasure. “Yes! Now we’re talking! Finally, worthy of the title Hero!”

He dove into the platter, and even the council paused to observe him with bewilderment. Chewing with a mouthful of bread, he chimed, “Who knew diplomacy could taste so good?”

Kaelaya shook her head but couldn’t help but smile. “You really are something else, Haruto.”

As the meeting continued, the council discussed their plan to confront Warlord Hokkirus. Haruto managed to pay more attention this time, though half of his mental energy was still devoted to what was left on the food platter.

“And so, we will need a group of heroes to infiltrate Hokkirus’s lair and retrieve the artifact before he gains control over it,” the elder explained, wiping off his glasses.

“Great! Count us in,” Haruto said between bites. “I’ll be the heroic distraction while you guys do the real work!”

“That sounds kind of dangerous,” Kaelaya frowned, crossing her arms. “What if you screw up?”

“Or what if he accidentally eats our only way to defeat the warlord?” Sionora added, humor dancing in her eyes.

“What’s the worst that could happen? Falling into the abyss of mediocrity?” Haruto shot back, standing tall.

The council members exchanged looks, some amused and others unsure of how to react to this “Misfit Hero.”

“Okay, let’s stick to the plan,” Miora interjected, trying to take charge. “Let’s focus on gathering information and preparing for our quest.”

Haruto raised an eyebrow, suddenly realizing the level of responsibility placed upon him. “Hmm… I guess that means I have to put down the snacks and step up, huh?”

Sionora nodded and smiled. “No more munching until after we save the kingdom.”

With a dramatic sigh, Haruto reluctantly set down the half-eaten cookie. “Fine! But the moment we’re done, I’m raiding the snack supplies again!”

As the meeting continued, Haruto felt a sense of excitement and purpose building within him. It was an adventure waiting to happen, and he was ready to take on this new life—snacks and all.