"I'm home, Father-in-law."
"...Ah."
Back at my in-laws' house, I went straight to Father-in-law's study.
Even when I greeted him, he didn't lift his eyes from the papers—just a curt reply.
Same as always, so I didn't mind.
Normally I'd leave immediately, but today I had something to discuss—so I spoke again.
"Father-in-law, I know you're busy, but could you spare a moment?"
"...What is it?"
He sighed softly, finally looking up.
"...Actually, I'm considering leaving the Hero Party. This morning's paper makes it clear the party's declining. There's no reason for me to stay. Once the penalty ends, I plan to withdraw immediately."
"What nonsense is this? —Do you have any idea what you're saying? If you do that and we lose dealings with Marquis Forgas—what then!"
My in-laws run Flockheart Trading Company.
A major domestic firm—many noble contracts.
Most heavily reliant on Forgas Marquis over the last decade.
Used to trade broadly—now mostly Forgas faction nobles.
If Forgas cuts ties—the company collapses.
◇ ◇ ◇
I was an orphan. Adopted at seven.
Never felt parental love.
Why adopt me? Simple.
Political marriage tool for childless family.
Still—I thought it was fine.
Better life than orphanage.
Future groom—big merchant or baron—meant comfortable living.
Education for that—among orphans, decent path.
But—no political marriage.
Father-in-law learned my ability through them.
Forgas proposed: accept conditions—increase trade.
They agreed instantly.
Condition: form explorer party with two boys arriving in town.
So—per instructions—I "coincidentally" joined Orun-san and Oliver-san.
Likely to recruit Orun's talent.
How they knew him—mystery.
◇ ◇ ◇
"Does the party without Orun-san have value? I think Marquis Forgas feels the same."
"What are you misunderstanding? We had you join to support Oliver Cardiff. Not some fake who 'happened' to beat a black dragon—the genuine Hero!"
Genuine Hero?
Oliver-san is talented, sure.
But Orun-san far surpasses him.
"With respect—deep-floor bosses aren't beaten by chance. Let alone solo. That's legendary hero-level feat, isn't it?"
"...Insolent girl—don't talk back! Forgas has plans beyond your comprehension! Who do you think saved you? Obey our orders—that's all! No withdrawal! Understood?"
"...Y-Yes. …Understood."
Father-in-law's point—partly right.
Without adoption—dead in that orphanage.
They saved my life.
Must repay that debt.
But staying in Hero Party—Derrick and Ane's rampage will destroy it.
Worst case—death in labyrinth.
I don't want to die...
Can't leave—so can't stay spectator.
Must actively communicate—prevent collapse.
Selling fight to Derrick recently—bad move...
No use lamenting.
Do everything possible.
Won't die over nonsense.
...Sigh. If—if they really exist—I wish fairy-tale heroes would save me.
But no such person...
My life—moved by others' convenience—ends that way.
I know it's unforgivable—but...
I want to sever every thread binding me.
Become free.