I felt ominous. Probably it was my stomach but I had to ask.

“Hey, Imro.”

“Mm-hm”

“...maybe because of the casualties yesterday, but I feel that the detachment is not, well, strong enough to fend off the demon’s onslaught…?”

Palek’s face was offended since he was part of the detachment’s command.

“You’re right. They are not enough for winning a confrontation.” Imro agreed.

“What?!” Palek was shocked.

Imro, realizing Palek’s impending outrage, reasoned. “The detached force here is not strong enough, yes, because the bulk of the power has been transferred to the hero and his company. They will be our spear in striking the demon lord. Our job here is to just halt their advances to push further behind and hold on.”

“Also, the strike force’s members have a right to the loot which were pillaged in the demon castle. Further, they will be honored by the Emperor and their names will be written by the imperial scribes on the annals of history. That is why many are envious of you being part of the Hero’s Company. After all, only veterans are allowed a position in there.”

I raised my eyebrows at the sudden development in the conversation.

“Wait… then what about Aouille? I don’t think he’s a veteran.” I asked.

Imro smiled.

“He is, though? He has been through so many battles since his very young age. The veterans consider him as one of their own. His fame is also known throughout the empire.”

Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.

“Then people are envious because I don’t have ‘enough experience’? What bullshit! 'Enough experience' didn’t retake the fort of Gamasier!”

“I do agree. Your wits and strengths are, indeed, the reason for your position in the special company. Alongside you being Vivianne’s Vice-Guildmaster, well, widened your chances.” evaluated Imro.

“I also agree. I know you, so I don’t feel wronged. However, I’m sure: If I was a stranger, how furious I would be. An upstart newbie, who’s probably the bastard of a nepotist occupying a spot… Yeah, people would definitely be angry.” Added Palek.

I would need some time and wine to digest this opinion. Still, I had to clarify my current suspicions.

“Coming back to the topic of our troop arrangement. I ask again, all of our strongest men are with the hero's squad?”

“Yes, the detached forces are determined more by balancing of troops and… politics. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the detachments or the main rear are manned by inferior skilled people. We can hold out until the wretched ruler is vanquished.”

My worst fears were coming true. The strategy employed by the adventurers, and the divide which was based on age and class. Worst of all, a low public opinion I had gathered. Things were worse than what I expected.

I tried to probe, “Hey, What if the hero… couldn’t kill… the demon lord?”

Palek fumed.

“What do you mean?! How could the hero not kill the demon lord?!”

Imro was silent. I was correct. Palek nevertheless didn’t stop,

“Have you seen his power? Oh yes, you didn’t! I will tell you, he completely obliterated that high-ranking demon! His power was so overwhelming that my whole being just froze! You don’t…”

Imro was staring at me. His eyes conveyed an intent stare of imminence.

“How can the hero be defeated?!” Now Palek was nervous that both of us were silently agreeing.

Fuck, things are bad.