Chapter 75

“Amazing…”

Dozens of monsters were utterly obliterated. No, despite limiting the avatar’s physical abilities to that of an average human, I had worried it might be dangerous… but who would’ve thought even a large bear-like monster among dozens of others would be reduced to scattered chunks of meat?

The greatsword’s power and durability were impressive. Even its cutting ability in one-handed mode was formidable. And let’s not even talk about the magical enhancement – it was extraordinary!

Through my avatar, who had never held a sword before, this blade turned a massive bear-shaped monster into dozens of meat pieces in an instant. The armor transformation’s defensive capabilities were equally impressive – with proper coverage, it could withstand a giant bear’s crushing blow without any damage.

It seemed I had created something extraordinary. This sword could potentially change everything if wielded by the wrong person. A skilled warrior with this blade might easily slay wyverns or lesser dragons. Perhaps in time, humans may evolve to fight dragons directly…

Anyway, I clearly made this sword too powerful. It needs special handling. While only those meeting the conditions can even lift it, someone might find a way around that magically. Can’t be too careful.

So until a true hero comes along, it must remain sealed in the Temple of Life at Dragon’s Tomb, its location kept secret…

Ideally I should manage it personally, but for now let me think on that…

Let’s see… what next? Should I start searching for a worthy human? No, rumors would work better than checking people individually.

Fortunately, there are many pilgrims traveling the world right now, including many who aren’t even dragons joining the Temple of Life. Through divine oracle, I’ll spread word among believers of the Goddess of Life.

Thus, I secretly placed the Sword of the Hero at Dragon’s Tomb, embedding it in a large rock. Then I wrapped it tightly with chains made from pure black adamantium, anchoring them deeply so it couldn’t be easily removed.

Of course, one link is magically split and rejoined to respond to the conditions, allowing a worthy individual to draw the blade!

Satisfied with the preparations, I descended to deliver the divine message…

One day, a revelation came to believers of the Goddess of Life:

“Though evil creatures harming others have increased, humanity lacks sufficient means to protect itself. So I forged a blade and placed it within the temple.

But its power is all too great, requiring careful selection of its wielder.

Find one with a kind heart.

Find one with exceptional talent.

Find one who cannot ignore injustice.

Find one who helps others without hesitation.

Let such a one take up the sword as a hero to protect humanity.”

With many villages falling to monsters, news of this divine blade spread far and wide among humans and other races alike.

Rumors grew extravagant:

“A blade sharp enough to cut anything.”

“One who wields it becomes invincible and immortal.”

“The goddess grants wishes to whoever draws it.”

“No mortal or dwarf could craft such a blade.”

“Marry the goddess herself and become a god!”

What’s with that last one?! Still, rumors spread fast through the pilgrims’ network.

Many came seeking the sword:

Those confident in their strength.

Those craving power.

Those desperate for wishes.

Those seeking vengeance.

Even blacksmiths curious about fine blades…

And somehow, marriage-minded fools?!

Despite their varied motives, none could budge the blade embedded in the great rock, bound by the oppressive black chains. Not the strongest warriors, famed soldiers, mighty dwarves, nor even a city-state king.

A year passed…

Did I make the conditions too harsh? Why can’t anyone draw it? It should be simple – just be kind, talented, hate injustice, and help others!

I was mistaken. My modern moral standards differed greatly from this ancient era’s. A basic blindspot – “kindness” meant very different things!

This era’s standard was far below mine. If kindness was tough, what about the other criteria?

“Talented”? What level did I subconsciously set?

From a god’s perspective, perhaps they needed potential to conquer the world with just one sword…

Each condition, seeming easy to me, combined into near-impossible difficulty. I sighed watching countless try and fail.

Then one day, a small boy approached. About 10 years old, wearing tattered rags, covered in dirt, looking malnourished. The crowd mocked him – how could such a child move what strong men couldn’t?

But he showed no hesitation. Ignoring others’ gazes, he firmly grasped the hilt taller than himself and began pulling slowly.

Creak…

As the boy strained with all his might, the adamantium chains rattled. Though destined to fail, his determination was palpable – as if losing meant losing everything.

He was kind by both ancient and modern standards, hated injustice, and wanted to help others. But talent-wise, he was a dullard.

His one strength was an unyielding spirit. So I pondered… Could relentless effort, unwavering willpower, and proper guidance compensate for lack of raw talent?

It would be grueling for him, perhaps wishing for death at times… But maybe, just maybe…

I nodded, and slowly the adamantium chains loosened, allowing the Sword of the Hero to begin emerging from the rock…