New chapter of Incompetent Bratty Prince is out. (2/8 chapters)

 

 

As Always, The Hidden Lore of Enhaz is Unbearably Heavy

(Thank you for reading at bayabuscotranslation.com)

“So, that means, she is also in the same position as me, a slave?” (Harold)

“That’s right. She’s been here for about 10 years, but even now, as the top fighter, it’s still nowhere near enough to buy herself back. You understand what that means, don’t you?” (Obul)

“…” (Harold)

At Obul’s words, I fell silent.

In other words, this is what he wants to say, right? That even Despina is in such a state, so for someone like me who just arrived here, the idea of being freed is nothing more than a dream.

“I know I was brought here by a woman, but was Despina also sold by someone like that?” (Harold)

“No, that’s not it. She wasn’t sold… she was taken.” (Obul)

“Taken?” (Harold)

“Yeah. Hard to believe, but she used to be a princess of the Nomades Kingdom.” (Obul)

The Nomades Kingdom was a southern country that existed until 10 years ago. It was destroyed in a war with the Romania Empire. According to Obul, after the kingdom fell, Despina was stripped of her status and wealth, and she was reduced to being a slave.

“So… she wasn’t the only royal, right? What about the others?” (Harold)

“The king and queen were executed. Apparently, there was another princess besides Despina. That one was kept as a surviving heir, a symbol of Nomades, and she’s still living peacefully in Nomades today. It’s also meant to help suppress local revolts.” (Obul)

“Wait a second. Then, why is Despina the only one who became a slave?” (Harold)

“It’s a simple matter. One symbol of Nomades is enough.” (Obul)

So, whether she is an older or younger sister, they only need one princess to keep the people of Nomades from rebelling. The other is seen as unnecessary and discarded.

“Well… I guess being alive is better than nothing.” (Obul)

“…” (Harold)

I wonder if Despina, who manage to survive even as a slave, could be considered fortunate. Or maybe, it would have been better for her to pass on to the afterlife together with her executed parents. I don’t know the answer to that. But still…

“I’m telling you now, don’t go feeling sorry for her. If you lose easily because of that, it’s all pointless.” (Obul)

“I know. I don’t intend to lose to anyone.” (Harold)

I have my own thoughts about Despina’s past, but I couldn’t afford to fall here either. There’s someone across the sea who is waiting for me to return. And I’m sure Despina wouldn’t be happy to be pitied either. If it were me, I’d find it unbearable.

Still, why is this game, “Engage Hazard,” so heavy on hidden lore? Is it because the developers care deeply about the characters? Or is it that they enjoy driving their characters into despair? There’s a lot I’d like to ask.

“Good then. I’m looking forward to today’s match.” (Obul)

“Yeah.” (Harold)

As Obul left the cell, I gave him a small wave.

 

—

 

“Alright… let’s go.” (Harold)

“Haru! Do your best!” (Casparleague)

“Yeah!” (Harold)

Finally, it was time for the match against Despina.

At the gate leading to the arena, I psyched myself up. Cas, who had transformed into the smartphone-sized Jet Black Shield Casparleague, cheered for me from inside my coat.

If my partner weren’t here, I might have broken down long ago from the loneliness. The reason I can stand up to my current situation is all thanks to Cas.

“Cas… once we figure out a way to remove this collar by winning match after match, let’s leave this place together.” (Harold)

“Of course! When that time comes, I’ll tear apart every one of the people who put you through this with my claws!” (Casparleague)

“Haha, that’s reassuring.” (Harold)

As we had that conversation, the door before me began to open slowly. At the same time, the waiting crowd erupted into cheers… or rather, angry shouts. Either way, they were urging us to appear.

It seems there’s only one judge in the arena. That probably means they plan to send in the disposable… me, first, and then let the star make a late entrance. Well, I’m used to being treated like that. But don’t underestimate the underdog. I’ve been sharpening my fangs for the moment I could bite back.

Then, it happened.

“““““Uooohhhh!!””””” (Audience)

A particularly loud roar greeted the woman who emerged from the opposite gate.

With eyes like a black panther, a supple body, and brown skin, she is the strongest gladiator in the Colosseum. Despina Nomades made her entrance.

 

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