The narrative begins with the protagonist, Yukina, a simple villager, reflecting on the recurring prophecy of the Demon Lord's revival and the emergence of a Hero. Yukina, more concerned with farming and a peaceful life, finds the concept of world-ending threats distant. This perspective is shattered when a group from the "Church," a religious organization that worships the god who selects Heroes, arrives in his remote village. They identify a young man named Relics, known for his good looks, intelligence, and character, as the chosen Hero. Relics, a respected figure and potential successor to the village chief, bears a birthmark on his right hand, the "stigma," which the Church representative, Bishop Pain, confirms as proof of his divine selection. Yukina, initially detached, humorously considers getting Relics' autograph for potential profit.
Four days later, Yukina is summoned to the village chief's house, where he finds Bishop Pain. To his astonishment, Pain reveals that Yukina has also been chosen, not as a Hero, but as Relics' attendant. Yukina, who had largely forgotten about Relics' Hero status due to his focus on farming and dealing with local "nuisance beasts" (monsters), is reluctant. However, Pain outlines the necessity of Relics traveling to the capital to train with knights and gain strength to face the Demon Lord. He explains that Relics, being unfamiliar with the capital, requested a companion. Despite Yukina's protests about his farming duties, Pain assures him that the Church will handle his taxes and living expenses, even offering a salary. The prospect of a free trip to the capital, coupled with the financial benefits and the chance to pursue his own ambitions, convinces Yukina to accept the role of Relics' "babysitter."
Relics, meanwhile, grapples with his newfound identity as the Hero. He recalls being found as an abandoned infant with a distinctive birthmark, and his adoptive parents encourage him to embrace his destiny. The villagers express pride in him, but Relics notices Yukina's continued casual demeanor, finding him a unique presence. He requested Yukina accompany him, feeling a subtle connection despite their limited closeness.
Their journey to the capital, "Brestia," is uneventful, with the Church members handling any monster encounters. Upon arrival, Yukina, prioritizing his personal goal of visiting the "pleasure district" for his "first experience," immediately disembarks, leaving Relics and Pain to attend the audience with the King. Yukina, having secured sufficient funds from selling monster meat and his advance payment as an attendant, heads towards his intended destination.
While navigating the less reputable alleys of the pleasure district, Yukina intervenes when a hooded woman is harassed by ruffians. After subduing the attackers and taking their money as compensation, he is struck by the woman's extraordinary beauty. She is revealed to be a noblewoman, though she claims to be lost. Yukina, abandoning his original plan, offers to guide her through the city. They spend the day sightseeing, enjoying the festive atmosphere of the capital, which is unusually lively due to the Church's announcement of the Hero's arrival. During their outing, Yukina buys her a pendant, and she, in turn, gives him a valuable ring. They part ways at a bridge, acknowledging their brief, impactful encounter.
Relics, accompanied by Bishop Pain and other Church members, attends an audience with King Bernst. Despite his initial nervousness, Relics declares his resolve to face the Demon Lord, accepting his destiny. He learns that he will soon embark on a short expedition to a temple to retrieve the "Holy Sword," accompanied by the King's daughter. Yukina, opting out of the formal temple visit, settles into a cheap inn in the city, intending to fulfill a request from a villager to purchase a new sword. While browsing weapon shops, he witnesses a blacksmith violently ejecting troublemakers from his shop, piquing Yukina's curiosity.
