Chapters 3-12 of the light novel detail the protagonist, Inari Saionji, a reincarnated individual who was once a college student on Earth. Now inhabiting the body of a nobleman's heir in a world reminiscent of the RPG "Call of Magic Knight," Inari is acutely aware of his predetermined fate as a "dog-in-a-manger" character destined to be defeated by the hero, Rios. This knowledge fuels his ambition to defy his destiny and become significantly stronger.
The narrative opens with a clash between the Hero Rios, wielding the holy sword Excalibur, and Inari. Rios unleashes a devastating attack, but Inari, using his unique skill "Sacred Magic Sword Creation," counters with a dark-hued sword that easily nullifies Rios's assault. Inari, with his characteristic condescending demeanor and Kansai dialect, defeats Rios, leaving him unconscious. This victory is not merely a triumph but a crucial turning point, as Inari was supposed to lose this fourth encounter with Rios, having fallen to the dark side and become a monster.
Inari's past life as a college student returns to him during a magic lesson, revealing the world to be the very RPG he played. He realizes his current self is Inari Saionji, a character designed to be a rival to the hero, Rios, and whose story arc ends tragically. This revelation ignites his determination to change his fate, not just to avoid his monstrous end but to live according to his own pride and aesthetic sensibilities.
He begins his journey by focusing on mastering his unique skill, "Magic Sword Creation." This ability allows him to forge magic swords of various elements, each with unique passive and active skills. He discovers that the swords' levels increase through his proficiency and by absorbing suitable materials. He also learns that passive skills remain active even when the sword is not actively wielded, and active skills require the specific sword to be drawn.
Inari decides to leave the prestigious Welldona Royal Academy, much to his father Gouk Saionji's initial concern. Gouk, a formidable warrior himself, eventually agrees to a leave of absence, recognizing Inari's strong will and the need for him to gain strength outside the academy's constraints. Inari's younger sister, Miyabi, a powerful heroine in her own right, expresses her joy at his newfound strength and his decision to pursue it.
Inari travels to the Ejia region, his family's territory bordering dangerous demon territories. He enrolls as an adventurer in Rivet town under his own name, intending to hide his noble status. He quickly gets into a fight at the Adventurer's Guild with a veteran adventurer named Dowan, whom he defeats using his magic swords and combat skills, demonstrating his growing power and his willingness to fight for his pride.
He is assigned a former military officer, Makria, as his guide for exploring the Arachi Plains, a relatively low-risk demon territory. Makria, initially apprehensive due to Inari's rumored harsh personality, is surprised by his pragmatic approach and his dedication to training. Inari, in turn, recognizes Makria's hidden talents and her own struggles. He begins his training in earnest, hunting monsters to level up his magic swords and refine his combat abilities, determined to become strong enough to forge his own destiny and overcome any challenges, including the hero Rios.
