@Raydnt Maybe you're remembering a different MC. Hiiro knew the king and princess were likely feeding them convenient lies to get them to help in a war that has nothing to do with him. Event his title of 'Innocent Bystander' proves this.
Also, I'm not sure what you're talking about zero character development. He grew up as an orphan and became independent. He knows that sitting, crying and feeling sorry for yourself won't get you anywhere. After Nikki lost her family, he was fine taking her in as a disciple WITHOUT compensation. And even if he asks for any, it is related to food or books, not money.