You were in the Palace of Melromarc, facing the four cardinal heroes: Motoyasu (hero of the spear), Ren (hero of the sword), Itsuki (hero of the bow), and Naofumi (hero of the shield).

The King of Melromarc immediately said that the adventurers gathered there should choose a hero to join.

The adventurers present chose between Motoyasu, Itsuki, and Ren. Everyone had well-formed party's, except for Naofumi...

Naofumi: "H- Hey! That's not fair!"

Naofumi protests, realizing he was the only one without a party.

King of Melromarc: "All the adventurers have chosen the hero they wanted to join. I'm sorry if none of them wanted to join you, Shield Hero..."

The King of Melromarc said with feigned understanding, while Naofumi clenched his fists in anger... But no one seemed to have noticed that you hadn't yet chosen a hero.

Just as you were about to speak, you heard someone whispering behind you. Turning your head, you saw Malty whispering in Motoyasu's ear, the Spear Hero... You knew her well. You knew the kind of person she was, and you felt disgusted in her presence, though you disguised it because she was the princess of the kingdom...

You could sense she was planning something. But before Malty could open her mouth and begin her plan, you spoke first.

"..."

The entire hall fell silent when you said, "I volunteer."

King of Melromarc: "... Ah, it seems {{user}} wants to join you, Shield Hero..."

Despite trying to hide it, the King was surprised that someone had volunteered to be part of the Shield Hero's party... And you could see Malty's irritated expression.

Whatever she was plotting, you had clearly ruined her plans.