On an ordinary day, much like any other, I found myself wandering the bustling streets of the city, my mind preoccupied with the ever-looming rent problem. Lunch had been a simple affair of cheap but satisfying ramen, and now I strolled aimlessly, contemplating my next move.

As I approached a busy intersection, the traffic light flickered to red, signaling me to halt at the edge of the pedestrian crossing. With my thoughts still lingering on my financial woes, I absentmindedly gazed at the road ahead. And that's when I spotted it—a truly adorable puppy, sitting right in the middle of the street. The little creature seemed blissfully unaware of the imminent danger it was in.

My heart skipped a beat as I realized that a large truck was hurtling towards the oblivious puppy. I hesitated for a moment, battling my own instincts. I wasn't the hero type, after all. Courage, strength, and nobility weren't my forte. In fact, I'd never considered myself capable of heroic deeds.

I keep to myself mostly, especially since I’ve had to live out a hard life on my own for the longest time. Crowds displease me greatly, they make me sick and dizzy after a while to be perfectly honest.

But… I love dogs. I love cute animals in general to be honest I always have. My father is a veterinary and that’s how I start loving animals. I may not care much about other people, since they have nothing to do with me and I don’t want them to have anything to do with me if I can help it… But I have a huge soft spot for cute animals okay!

That puppy out there in the middle of the road, it must have a family right? Maybe parents and some siblings? Or at least a human owner or someone that just cares for it every now and then? Or maybe it’s a stray that takes care of itself mostly? Whatever the case, that puppy has so much to live for. All the people and other animals it could meet in its life, all the food it will eat and enjoy, all the wonderful places it could explore… All of those possibilities will be put to an end, because of a truck that failed to notice the puppy in the middle of the road.

I didn’t even think about it. Not one bit. It was not something I decided after thinking about the pros and cons. Before I knew it, my body was already moving.

Without even thinking about it, I was running towards the puppy. As I was but mere seconds away from reaching the cute little guy though, the puppy starts to run in the opposite direction from me!

My hand that reached for the puppy missed it by a hair’s breadth, and soon enough the puppy had reached the sidewalk on the other side of the road. Into the waiting arms of some little girl.

So, the puppy’s owner was nearby this whole time?! How did it even end up in the middle of the road all on its own?! Man, I couldn’t even save a cute little puppy properly?!

As the truck continued its relentless approach, everything around me faded into a distant blur. The chaotic noise of the city—honking horns, bustling traffic, and the panicked cries of onlookers—became muffled, like a distant echo. Time seemed to slow, stretching each second into an eternity.

In the split second before impact, my heart raced, and I braced myself for the inevitable collision with the truck. The sounds of chaos and terror engulfed me as I screamed, accepting my fate as the misguided hero. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of regret for the life I was leaving behind, knowing that at least the puppy was now safe.

But just as the truck's horn seemed to pierce through my consciousness, an unexpected flash of blinding light engulfed me. For a moment, it felt as if time stood still, and the world turned into a canvas of white. My panicked mind struggled to comprehend what was happening, wondering if this was the afterlife.

"AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!"

I screamed once more, convinced that this surreal experience confirmed my worst fears—that I had indeed met my end. My heart pounded loudly in my chest as I waited for whatever came next.

But when I cautiously opened my eyes, I was met with a scene so bizarre that I questioned my sanity. Before me stood a gathering of humanoid figures, each bearing distinct animal features. Dogs, cats, lizards, and other creatures stood in their separate groups, their eyes fixed on me with a strange, expectant curiosity.

"AAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!"

I cried again, my anxiety and fear rising to new heights. The sight of this peculiar crowd only amplified my discomfort. I had always loved animals, but this was something beyond my wildest imagination. How could such a surreal gathering of beings exist?

The humanoid creatures exchanged glances, as if trying to decipher my reaction. Despite my terror, I couldn't help but notice a sense of familiarity in their expressions—an understanding, almost as if they knew my struggle all too well.

As the initial shock began to subside, I realized that this was not the afterlife nor some dream-like illusion. The animal people before me were real, and for reasons beyond my comprehension, they had appeared at the moment of my supposed demise.

“What the hell is going on?”

“Okay, Sobbie. Take a minute and think about what is happening.”

I am in an unknown place. I am on my own. I don’t have much stuff with me. Think, think, stop for a moment. What do I know? I am not sure if this is heaven or hell, or maybe I got transported to another world like in the manga. Right, okay, I need to establish communication with these humanoid creatures. Ah! Of course! Fantasy stories! Demi-humans! Okay, let’s try.

I approach the dog-looking demi-humans first. To establish communication, I try to make the sound of a barking dog:

"Arf, arf, arf! GrrrrrrrArf, arf, arf!"

The people appear confused by my attempts.

So, I move on and approach the cat-looking demi-humans. I replicate the sound cats make with

"Meow, meow, meow!"

yet again there is no response from them so I lick my hand in an attempt to mimic a cat's behavior - this time they just look mildly irritated.

Unsure of what else to do, I turn my attention to the lizard-looking demi-humans. I make a random hissing noise that I assume lizards make: "Sssss-sshhaaaa, sssss-sssshhhhaaaaa kaka ka,sssss-sssshhhhaaaaa!". Predictably they just give me blank looks.

No matter what language or sound I use, none of these people seem able to understand me.

“Ahem,”

someone coughs into their hand to get my attention. They are standing by the doorway to the side, which I just noticed now, and I now realize that I seem to be standing on a rather intricate circle.

“My dear hero, we are able to speak the common tongue like any other major race, don’t you know?”

He's using English, isn't it? What the fuck is going on here? Oh yeah, the one who said that is a demi-human goat. With horns on his head, a goat-like face, dressed in a butler uniform, wearing shades, and all that.

Ahhh Take me Lord, I just realized I insulted a bunch of demi-humans by assuming they couldn't speak like me and could only make animal noises.

"S-sorry! That was incredibly rude of me!"

I bow over and over again at the demi-humans assembled in this rather huge room. I am aware that anime has a big influence on the action, but for some reason, it felt like the appropriate thing to do.

The goat butler simply exclaimed,

"Hahahaha!"

The still unnamed goat butler addressed the assorted demi-humans that greeted me when I arrived here in this strange place,

"Apology accepted. It must have been quite a shock being surrounded by so many demi-humans with severely animalistic characteristics, right? I'm sure now that you've apologized, all is forgiven. Isn't that right, everyone?"

All of the demi-humans present nodded in agreement or expressed their approval in some other way.

Anyway, The elephant in the room needs to be addressed, I suppose, so let's get to that. I turn to the butler, who currently seems to be the most prominent person, and say,

The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

"Excuse me." "My name is Sobbie, and right now I'm extremely lost. Maybe you could explain what's going on? And hold on, did you just refer to me as a hero?”

Actually, that is what it is, now that I think about it. Like this, I've read manga before. A man from Earth is transferred to a place where there are swords and magic and other things. I am essentially living out a Hero Summoning narrative. Fuck! I'm not a hero, though! not in the manners that generally matter!

"Ah, indeed. Greetings, Sobbie. I am Alfred Miller, the head butler of the esteemed royal family in the demi-human kingdom of Raithril. Allow me to shed some light on the situation. As word spread about the impending hero summoning ritual, citizens of the kingdom gathered here, eager to witness the momentous event unfold firsthand."

I maintained a composed demeanor, though inside, curiosity stirred about the unusual public nature of this occasion. Why would they make such an important ceremony open to all? Nonetheless, as the royal family's desires dictated, I followed Alfred, prepared to meet the enigmatic figures behind this grand affair. We ascended a grand staircase, surrounded by a diverse crowd of murmuring demi-humans, all brimming with anticipation.

"Please, follow me,"

Alfred continued, his distinguished voice guiding me through the palace's regal halls.

"The royal family eagerly awaits your presence, and they wish to personally explain the significance of your summoning."

As we walked, I couldn't help but wonder what role destiny had assigned me in this realm of demi-humans, and what kind of responsibilities would accompany the title of a summoned hero. The bustling ambiance around me heightened my sense of both excitement and uncertainty.

***

As we approached the imposing set of doors guarded by the tiger demi-humans, my mind briefly strayed from my uncertainties about being a hero. Instead, I found myself captivated by the beauty of these creatures. Their human-like facial features blended seamlessly with tiger fur and the elegant tail, evoking a sense of wonder and admiration within me.

Alfred, ever perceptive, noticed my fascination and offered an understanding smile.

"Oh, it's quite natural to be intrigued by the demi-humans, especially for someone like you, who hails from another world. Allow me to share some insight. When the gods created the demi-human race, they bestowed upon them a unique aspect: the variability of their appearance."

He continued, "

It was a conscious decision by the divine to add an element of chance to the demi-humans' physical traits. As a result, some demi-humans possess more pronounced animalistic features, resembling humanoid versions of their animal counterparts. On the other hand, others lean more toward a human appearance while still retaining at least one distinct trait from some form of animal."

I absorbed this newfound knowledge, finding the concept both intriguing and thought-provoking. It highlighted the sense of diversity and unpredictability woven into the fabric of this fantastical world, further fueling my fascination with its intricate design.

"So, each demi-human is a unique blend of human and animal characteristics, all shaped by the whims of the gods," I mused aloud, my mind delving into the implications of such a divine decision.

"Indeed,"

Alfred nodded, pleased with my curiosity. "It is one of the many marvels that define the rich tapestry of our realm. Our demi-human citizens embrace their identities wholeheartedly, cherishing the beauty of their individuality."

And as we talked a bit we finally reached just a short distance away from the two thrones at the end of the room. I spared a glance or two at the decorations of the throne room, but everything seemed par for the course for such a place. This was the royal family of the kingdom’s main place for entertaining guests they had to speak to. Of course it would have a lot of expensive looking paintings, statues and whatnot decorating the place. But again, I didn’t care much for any of it.

The first thing I noticed was this super cute looking dog seated at one of the thrones. He looked like an adult aged Siberian Husky, slightly larger than average anyway. He looked so damn fluffy!

I immediately rushed on over and began hugging and petting the dog. “Who’s a good boy? Who’s a good boy? You are!” I couldn’t help but say the stereotypical lines because hey, he really seemed like he was a good boy! Like most animals that I have come across over the years, he was behaving and seemed to take a liking to me.

“Assshhaabubu!”

I went on and started to baby talk the doggy, I couldn’t help it. He started to look like he was smiling at me! Awwwww, so the royal family has this guy as a royal pet or something huh?

I look to the other throne and see a rather buxom beauty with platinum blonde hair and large dog ears. She seemed to find something really funny if here amused expression was anything to go by. I could also clearly hear her giggling and she had one hand covering her mouth as she did this. She must be the queen.

“Excuse me Sobbie but, how long do you plan on treating the king like some regular household pet?

“ You as well, my dear king, I think it’s time you stopped with your usual practical joke.”

Alfred said all of a sudden.

Huh? King? What was he talking about? This cute doggy is the king of the demi-human kingdom? How?! Why?!

“What?! The king is just a dog?! How does this?!”

I gesture to the supposed king who still looks like a dog to me.

“End up with marrying this?!”

I gesture to the extremely hot queen with the platinum blonde hair and really insane figure that would make most models back on Earth look terrible in comparison.

To my utter surprise, the dog suddenly transformed before my eyes in a cloud of smoke. From the dissipating haze emerged a tall, muscular wolf demi-human, adorned in impressive leather armor. The truth was laid bare before me—the Raithril royal family possessed the unique ability to shift between their canine and werewolf forms.

The king let out a deep chuckle, his voice resonating with authority.

"You sure have quite the audacity to speak so boldly to the royal family of any kingdom!"

Regaining my composure, I took a few steps back, realizing my impertinence in speaking so casually to the king.

"I-I apologize. I had no idea about your unique trait. It was an honest mistake."

The queen joined in, amusement still dancing in her eyes.

"No harm done. It's not every day we meet someone unfamiliar with our abilities. It seems our playful king couldn't resist teasing you a bit."

I managed a sheepish smile, feeling both embarrassed and intrigued.

"Well, you certainly surprised me, Your Majesty. Your ability is truly fascinating."

The king's laughter echoed through the room.

"It's all in good fun, young one. We enjoy lighthearted moments amidst our royal duties."

Despite my initial confusion and awkwardness, I couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and acceptance in the presence of the Raithril royal family.

"Ah, okay, that makes sense then. Looking like that, I can see how you ended up marrying a queen who looks so stunning,"

I said, trying to be respectful despite my initial surprise at their unique abilities.

The queen responded with a playful giggle, seemingly unfazed by my comment.

"Fufufu, I think we shall take that as a compliment,"

she said with a mischievous smile, her chainmail bikini armor sparkling in the light.

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention this sooner. The queen was dressed in an honest to goodness chainmail looking bikini armor. Exposing a lot of her creamy skin. It was a really nice sight to behold. I wonder why the king is okay with the queen showing off so much skin like that? Oh well, I’m not complaining. And I won’t question it out loud or anything.

Alfred then proceeded to introduce me to the royal couple, King Rudiger and Queen Elaine of the royal line of Cloudmourn. I greeted them warmly, feeling at ease with their easygoing demeanor.

"Hi, I'm Sobbie!" I said, trying to strike a balance between friendliness and respect.

"Hello there, dear hero,"

King Rudiger replied, acknowledging my presence.

"I'm sure you're wondering why you were summoned to this world, yes?"

I nodded eagerly. "Yes, that's right. I'm really curious about the reason behind it all."

The king and queen took turns explaining the purpose of my summoning, and it all boiled down to a prophecy concerning an imminent demon invasion that was expected to occur. They sought my assistance to ensure victory for the side of Edea, their world, and to minimize casualties, as heroes possessed the potential to become formidable forces in their own right.

“I refuse!”

I shout after they are done explaining everything. Crossing both my arms in an X shape in front of my chest for emphasis.

“I can barely bring myself to kill wild animals, what more demons! And I’m terrible at fighting, as in I’ve never even been in a proper fight in my life!” and why me?

“Hahahahaha!”

The king and queen laughed at my sudden outburst. It was the queen that spoke next.

“That’s fine, Sobbie. We’re not going to force you to do anything you don’t want to do. But, could you maybe give it some thought? You do have five years to think about it after all. And in the end, even if you don’t decide to actively help out, all the major kingdoms have a treaty in place to band together when the time comes and combat the demons.”

“Ah, that’s good then. Thanks…”

I guess that’s fair then, it would be really appreciated if I do end up helping but I won’t be forced into it or anything.

"So, what happens now?"

I inquired, curious about the next steps in my journey here.

Queen Elaine smiled warmly, her platinum blonde hair shimmering as she spoke.

"Now, we shall help you awaken your power by activating your magic core. This will enable you to tap into the system of this world and access your abilities. Alfred, if you would,"

she addressed the goat butler, who seemed ready to assist.

Alfred stepped up in front of me with a reassuring smile.

"Just relax, Sobbie. The procedure is painless and quick. I will place a hand on your chest to activate your magic core. Is that alright with you?"

"Uh, yeah, sure,"

I replied, trying to hide my nervousness. The thought of unlocking magical powers was both exciting and daunting.

With a calming presence, Alfred placed his hand on my chest, and a gentle blue glow emanated from his palm. A warm sensation spread through my body, making me feel as if something within me had been awakened.

As the magical energy surged through me, I realized that my journey in this fantastical world was just beginning, and I was about to embark on an adventure unlike anything I had ever experienced before.

"Ohhhh! I feel the power!"

I exclaimed, excitement brimming as I stretched one hand towards one of the far walls to the side.

"Fireball!"

However, nothing happened. I frowned, feeling a mix of disappointment and confusion. "Huh? What gives? I thought that would awaken my power?"

Alfred looked deeply concerned, exchanging worried glances with the king and queen.

"Oh dear, this has never happened before,"

he said, his voice tinged with worry.

King Rudiger spoke with a sympathetic tone,

"Sobbie, your power seems to still be sealed. For some reason, we can't unlock it through the only method we know how. I'm deeply sorry..."

Perplexed, I inquired,

"What was supposed to happen if it worked anyway? And how do you know for sure that my power is still sealed?"

They proceeded to explain the unique system in place in their world, akin to a game-like interface. Had my power been unlocked, I would have been able to see information floating above everyone's heads. But what confirmed my power was still sealed were the question marks displayed as my class and the status boldly stating "SEALED" in all caps.

Despite the setback, I couldn't help but feel a sense of curiosity mixed with frustration. I had hoped that awakening my powers would provide some clarity on my situation, but it seemed there was more to the mystery than I initially realized.

“But why?! I thought I was supposed to have some sort of amazing potential? Why won’t my power be unlocked?!”

I couldn’t help but yell at everyone gathered here. This is so unfair! Even if I don’t have the traits of a hero, I should have the actual power right?! I was summoned and everything!

“I’m sorry Sobbie, but there’s nothing that we can do. This sort of thing regarding a magic core refusing to be awakened has never happened before. Is there anything that you want so that we may send you on your way to live out your life?”

The queen tried to reassure me.

Sigh. I guess it’s not fair to take out my anger on them. It’s not their fault my power can’t seem to be awakened. I’ll have to find some way myself to get it unlocked.

“Sorry, sorry. It was rude of me to try and blame all of you regarding what happened. Anyway, could you possible give me some form of funds? I have no money of this world after all. Some basic supplies in a backpack would be appreciated as well. Oh, and if it’s not much trouble some spare clothes?”

Gee, I hope I’m not asking for too much.

“Alright, that’s all fine. Alfred, please see to it that Sobbie gets everything that he needs before sending him on his way.”

The king addresses Alfred first and then looks back at me.

“And Sobbie, if I may make a suggestion, if there’s any race on Edea that can help figure out how to activate your magic core then it would be the elves. Find a way to reach them somehow and I’m sure they can help you out.”

“I see. Very well, then. Thanks for everything so far.”

Alfred gave me a change of clothes which is this set of dark brown and dark beige, with the shirt having something that looked like some sort of cloth wrapped around the torso area. I was also given a backpack that was greatly larger on the inside filled with red and blue potions that were apparently health and mana potions, although the mana potions would be useless to me until I unlock my power I was told, a nice looking well made dagger, and even a good amount of toiletries.

As for funds, I was given just one gold coin. Isn’t this too little? Shouldn’t I have been given a lot of gold coins to last me a while? Are they being stingy? Oh well, I should spend it on something good then. I don’t want to complain about being given only one gold coin and appear ungrateful or something to Alfred.

“Alright, that should take care of everything that you may need for now. Will there be anything else, Sobbie?”

I think on this for a bit. Given the supplies, the clothes and the gold coin I think everything I may need for the short term until I get settled in this world are taken care of. “No, I think this is good enough. Thank you, for everything, Alfred.”