I, Who Was Criticized as the World's Weakest S-Rank Explorer, Am Actually the World's Strongest Explorer - Episode 77

Episode 77

(Note: Special for this chapter, dialogues through the telephone are in ‘….’)

‘Kiryu-san, I have a favor to ask.’

“…What is it? I’m willing to pay for any damages caused so far, but—”

‘Then, will you help us save Rin?’

“…Rin-chan?”

‘Have you been following the news online?’

“….Rin-chan………… Now that you mention it, I did see a few critical comments about her. Hold on for a moment.”  

Kiryu searched for Rin Kanzaki’s name again to confirm and furrowed his brow.

‘Did you see it?’

“…Yeah, I did. It seems like her dungeon explorations have been stagnating.”  

(…Slacking off? No, maybe it’s something else entirely…)  

Kiryu had developed a deep-seated dislike for “careless explorers”.

Their behavior negatively affected the perception of explorers and, by extension, ability users.  

Initially, his thoughts leaned toward doubting Rin. But he quickly dismissed the idea.

‘About that… it’s a lie by the Association. Rin is properly working on dungeon exploration.’

“…I see.”  

Kiryu exhaled softly. He already had his doubts about the Association. And now his mistrust had solidified.  

He had previously tried to propose improvements to the Association. But his suggestions rarely gained traction.  

Even when he pushed for increased support for explorers, most of the budget seemed to be misappropriated.  

Such was the Explorer’s Association.

‘Records of Rin’s recent dungeon explorations are properly documented. That data still exists on the Association’s computers. So, we plan to expose it all at once.’

“…I see.”  

Though it was a direct and antagonistic approach against the Association, it seemed effective in countering the criticism aimed at Rin.  

Moreover, it might even prompt a change within the Association itself.

‘Kiryu-san, I’d like you to help us find influencers or media outlets to share the videos and data we plan to release. You have a lot of connections, don’t you?’

“…Yeah, that’s true. I’m probably the right person for that.”  

Kiryu was surprised.  

He had thought Haruto was a calm and reserved person.  

He hadn’t expected him to take such bold actions or stand unfazed even when dealing with government entities.

‘So, please, help us out.’

“Alright. I’ll cooperate. Just to confirm, do you know who’s responsible for the instructions given to Rin by the Association?”

‘To some extent. It seems the directors discussed it, but Kana Aizawa from the Public Relations Bureau is the main person orchestrating things.’

“…Ah, Aizawa-san. Got it, thank you. I’ll also try to gather some information on my end.”

‘Thank you for your help. Honestly, I thought you’d be more hesitant to agree.’  

Haruto spoke in a joking tone, making Kiryu tilt his head.

“Why’s that?”

‘I thought you didn’t like me.’

“…Haha, saying that to someone directly—you’re not quite what I imagined.”

‘Am I not?’  

Haruto wasn’t timid at all.  

He possessed the poise expected of an S-Rank Explorer.  

His calm and composed decision-making likely stemmed from his experience in dungeon exploration.

“Not at all. I… I did dislike you, to be honest. But that was due to my own misconceptions. I’ve reflected on that now.”  

‘I see. In that case, I’d be happy if we could work together in the future.’  

Haruto’s tone was lighthearted and childlike. It was a contrast that made Kiryu chuckle wryly.

“…Of course. I’ve also been considering returning to my role as an S-Rank Explorer. We might end up working together at some point.”

‘That’s perfect. If you help us expose the Association’s misconduct, I think it’ll reduce the criticism against you as well.’  

Kiryu was slightly surprised by Haruto’s pointed observation but smiled wryly.

“You have… quite the personality.”  

‘Well, I’ve been through a lot, you know. And I owe some of it to you, Kiryu-san.’

“……….I see. My apologies for everything. Regardless, I understand your proposal. I’ll do my best to help.”

‘Thank you. Oh, one more thing. I was thinking of reaching out to the World Explorer Alliance. Do you have any contacts there?’

“The WEA, huh………. I do know a few people, but are you planning to join them?”

‘Not exactly. I just want to negotiate as equals and have them as a reliable ally. Is that a bad idea?’

“Not necessarily… but the organization has a lot of unknowns. I can’t say for sure. I’ll send you some contact information via message, but be careful when you approach them.”

‘Understood. Thank you for everything. Let me know when the details are finalized.’

“Yeah, thanks.” 

Kiryu let out a small breath and ended the call. 

He then composed his expression. 

A younger explorer was working hard to reform Japan’s Explorer Association. Of course, Kiryu understood that Haruto’s motivation wasn’t purely to challenge the Association—it was to protect his friend. 

Even so, Kiryu wanted to support Haruto in his efforts.

“First, I’ll record an apology video and upload it to my channel….. And then, there’s Aizawa-san.” 

Kiryu knew her well. 

She was a fellow officer close to his age. And they’d spoken on several occasions—largely because she was an avid, borderline obsessive fan of Kiryu. 

Whenever he dealt with the Association, she was almost always the one present for discussions.

“If I invite her out for a drink… she’ll probably spill everything about Rin-chan.” 

With this plan as a small form of atonement, Kiryu sent Aizawa a message inviting her out. 

Then, he began preparing to film his apology video.

He adjusted the ring light and sat in front of the camera. 

In the stillness of the room, Kiryu took a deep breath several times. 

He’d never felt this unsettled before filming a video.

Once the camera started rolling, Kiryu took a deep breath again and then bowed deeply.

“I sincerely apologize for this incident. I deeply regret making statements and displaying attitudes that damaged the honor of Haruto Amakusa, as well as failing to properly recognize and evaluate his achievements.” 

He raised his head and looked straight into the camera.

“Explorers are expected to meet the trust and expectations of the people. However, I failed to fulfill that responsibility. By refusing to see the truth, I hurt a comrade and ultimately betrayed that trust. I deeply reflect on my actions.” 

His heart pounded. 

This wasn’t a moment to be vague. He needed to speak the truth with conviction.

“Haruto Amakusa…… is, in my view, an exceptional explorer. Witnessing his abilities, efforts, and sincerity made me realize my own shortcomings. I take full responsibility for contributing to the damage to his reputation.” 

Without glancing at any notes, he continued speaking. 

“I, too, aim to become an explorer like him. I will re-examine myself from the ground up. I will strive to ensure that explorers serve as symbols of hope in society. I believe that is the only way I can atone for my actions.” 

At the end, he bowed deeply once more.

“I am truly sorry.” 

When the camera stopped, the room was engulfed in silence. 

The sound of rain outside had stopped. 

With both pride and regret as an explorer, Kiryu silently reaffirmed his determination in his heart.