Tate no Yuusha:Wave 3

Chapter 47

Welcome

"My my, if it isn't Hero-sama. Welcome." "I certainly was not expecting this."

We show up at the Slave trader's after the run-in with Motoyasu.

"What business do you have today?" "Putting that aside......"

I am quite concerned with how the slave trader is dressed. Even his subordinates...... They are all wearing luxurious accessories that are shaped like wings.

"That wing design looks good" "Thanks to Hero-sama. Yup" "Ha?" "These profits were due to the Hero-sama peddling." "What do you mean?"

I can think of several reasons, but none of them are too significant.

"First of all is the infamous Philo Rial Queen. Many nobles with demon collections are trying to obtain one. Yup"

Ah, so the reason his reputation rose is because Firo was pulling the carriage. Well she is certainly a rare demon, if someone wanted one they would of course come to the slave trader and check. and whenever a noble comes he just points them to my direction. I will not sell Firo because of her rampage.

"So when they give up, they purchase various other demons. Yup" "that's just like you"

At the moment the condition to become a Philo Rial Queen is uncertain. Otherwise there would be a lot more sold. Will it become a queen if it's raised by a hero? Two is not a good idea..... Firo alone is troublesome enough.

"Next, because Hero-sama's slaves are seen, there is a rumour that my shop's slaves are high quality, so I get some extra profits. Yup"

It's Raphtalia this time huh...... Raphtalia is certainly a beauty with a great figure. Once people know where she came from they would give them credit. Will everything i do raise the slave trader's reputation?

"So, what do you need this time? Another slave? Maybe your co-operation on Philo Rial experiments?"

The slave trader rubs his hands together happily.

"No, I came for demon dealer business this time." "Then Philo Rial experiments it is." "That's not it"

Are there only 2 options in this guy's head?

"So, what do you need?" "Ah, I was wondering whether or not I could purchase equipment for Firo here." "Equipment?..... that can be done"

The slave trader turns to observe Firo. The salve trader hummed cheerfully as Firo ran and hid behind my back. As expected, she is bad with him.

"Would a horseshoe shaped weapon suffice? there is also armour made for Philo Rials......"

Armour is probably impossible, it is unreasonable to tailor-make something considering Firo's body size.

"Do you have anything for charging?" "You could equip a helmet. To use when tackling" "Hmm......"

The horseshoes might work since she is not a horse.

"What about the claws?" "Firo, what do you want?" "Eh?"

Were you too scared of the slave trader to listen?

"You can get a helmet or have shoes attached to your feet." "Umm..... When Firo transforms it will dig into my skin, No~"

Ah, is the threat from the dressmaker's still working? It would be no problem in her demon form, but It would be very heavy for her in human form. The horseshoe would dig into the foot too, and the size of the armour might not be correct. We head to the magic shop, it seems to be possible to add the string to metal plates, but it would be very expensive. The defence would not increase that much either.

"How about de-attachable claws, yup." "Firo, is that fine?" "Yes" "We need to measure the size so release her demon form please. Yup" "Oh right" "Okay~"

With a Bofun, Firo returns to her demon form and sticks her foot out. A subordinate of the slave trader measured the size of Firo's foot.

"Hmm..... It is considerably larger than an average Philo Rial" "Is there any you can prepare immediately?" "I think we have one just barely her size. Are you all right with iron?"

I wonder what kind of offensive power I can expect. Should I be looking for hardness? If it's sharp......

"That's fine, I can afford to get this fellow something good." "I understand. Iron with magical properties is the best I can prepare for now." "By the way, how much is it?" "Because of the help from Hero-sama, I will sell it to you for half the market price, that will be 5 gold coins." "May I haggle further?" "Hero-sama's greed is giving me the shivers. Fine I'll compromise for 4 gold." "Done. Also, throw in a good bridle." "Sold!"

The slave trader's tension is high. Though he feels easy to deal with, I feel like i'm being used. What scary business sense. This guy. A big claw is brought out from the back of the tent. The size of the metal claw seems to fit Firo's foot just right. That's good.

"This thing is huge" "It's a claw meant for Wyvenrs. There is a bigger size too."

You're not even a Philo Rial anymore?

"I will wear this?" "yeah, it is your weapon."

Firo picks up the claw and equips it.

"It fits perfectly" "Seems like it."

All that's left is to connect the claw to the foot with a cord. Firo raises her foot to confirm if the claw is actually attached.

"Feels strange~" "This will make your offensive power even stronger than before, you'll get used to it."

Firo's attack power with her leg is still ridiculous. Having it increase even more...... The scene where Firo kicks Motoyasu is replayed in my mind. This time it seems Firo's kick will rip it apart.

"Firo, next time you kick that spear guy, do not use the claw." "Why not~?" "Because the balls will be completely crushed."

Though imperfect he is a Hero. I do not know what consequences there will be if I murder him. I feel it's a late now. For Motoyasu being kicked in the groin by my subordinate would be very mortifying. That guy's reason to live to become popular with woman. If that happened who would be the one to inform that trash king?

"Hmm"

Firo concentrates really hard on the claw that we just bought. Am I hearing properly? Oh well...... Whatever happens to Motoyasu doesn't concern me. I give the slave trader 4 gold coins.

"I don't need the armour after all~"

Do the nails not fit?Firo seems to think that the armour is unnecessary. Well, if you don't want it then that's fine.

"Now then, next......"

Hmm, I'm sure there was other business. I can't remember after watching Motoyasu get blown off. Certainly Raphtalia and Firo..... Ah I remember.

"Hey, slave trader. Is it possible for you to provide Class up here?" "Class up you say?" "Yeah because the trash king won't let my subordinates who reached level 40 class up, I am having a little trouble. I remember seeing some slaves here above level 40."

I tell the slave trader my request, and he puts his hand on his chin to think.

"Hero-sama I regret to inform you that I cannot help with that. I do not have a letter of introduction." "I see......"

Did this guy Class up from the power of a slave trader?

"If you obtain enough trust with neighboring countries, you can use their Hourglass of the Dragon's era to perform Class Up." "What?"

Wait a minute, this isn't the only country with a Hourglass of the Dragon's era?

"They are also in other countries?" "Yes, though it might take you time to gain trust there......"

Time is very precious right now and I cannot waste it. will the Hero of the Shield have a bad reputation in the neighbouring countries? This might be difficult.

"You can do it at the mercenary's country ZerutoBuru, the Demi-human country Silt Welt, and ShirudoFuriden is also available. Yup" (Tl note: 出来そうな所というと傭兵の国ゼルトブル、亜人の国シルトヴェルト、シルドフリーデン辺りですかね If anyone has better names for these countries please let me know.) "There's that many?" "Yes, for Hero-sama I would reccomend Silt Welt or ShirudoFuriden. You have a free pass there." "Hmm...... How long would it take me to get there?" "Let's see, by carriage it would be one month, and two weeks by boat."

The salve trader brought out a map and taught me the road. Certainly it is quite far from Merlot Mark country. It would take Firo a little over two weeks to arrive. Though if we don't push it 3 weeks would be the case. Two weeks on a ship sounds good, but I would not be able to do anything during that.

"If there was a wyvern around here Hero-sama would be able to get there very quickly." "It is far......"

However, it would be important to Power Up because of our situation. It shouldn't be that bad if I get new materials and monsters for my shield to absorb. There is no meaning to stay here any longer as Raphtalia and Firo cannot improve. Should we just go to the country of Demi-humans?

"I suppose we'll go when the wave is over."

Seriously, that trash king is devoting so much passion into annoying me.

"I am indebted to you." "If that's what you think then by all means-" "I refuse. oh right. Do you sell humans here?"

I was wondering if it would be better to sell thieves here instead of killing them.

"Humans are impossible in this country. If you look deeper there are people who will buy, but there is risk and quality to watch for."

Indeed, so demi-humans are fine in this country. I guess this is a country of human supremacy.

"Well then, See you."

Thus, we left the slave trader's tent. Firo returns to her human form and ties her claws with a cord to carry. however, Raphtalia was quite for the while conversation with the slave trader. Well, it is admirable that she didn't intervene in a business talk and make it awkward.

"It's your turn Raphtalia." "Ha?" "holy water. I'm sure it's sold at a church" "Ah, yeah" "you're a girl Raphtalia, these black bruises would be bad." "well..... If Naofumi-sama is worried."

Raphtalia mutters bashfully.

"No, I don't mind them. It's because i caused them." "So that's what you mean...... It's nothing"

I don't understand Raphtalia sometimes. Well, either way it's decided.

Chapter 48

Foiling another False Accusation

We arrived at an outstanding church within the castle town.

"He-Hero of the Shield!?"

I was greeted by an extremely bitter face. Just how much do you reject me to show such a face. As I expected, due to the rape accusation scandal will I be refused entry to the church?

"Do not be alarmed."

The priest from the church came and scolded the sister who scowled at us. ......Something feels off, but there is nothing I can do about it.

"What do you need from our church?" "Ah, my companion received a strong curse so I would like to purchase strong holy water."

This guy did not openly antagonize me so let's stay neutral. A price list is hanging from the wall.

"Then, please give an offering."

Are you asking for an offering because I am supposed to know the price from the price tag?

"How much is it?" "The effects from the cheapest to strongest holy water is 5 silver, 10 silver, 50 silver, and 1 gold coin."

Hmm...... It seems that they are not overcharging. I was expecting them to add sanctions but......

"It doesn't seem like a good idea to negotiate for discounts in front of god, so I'll take the strongest holy water you have for 1 gold." "Naofumi-sama you shouldn't get such an expensive thing just for me." "It's fine. I already said so before. I cherish you. Compared to Raphtalia, one gold coin is nothing." "T-thank you very much!"

I give the gold coin to the priest while Raphtalia is thanking him.

"Understood"

The priest instructed the sister to bring a bottle of holy water. ......I check the quality of it with the Judge Skill.

Low grade holy water Quality : Bad

I glare at the priest who makes a confused face. The priest then checks the holy water and his expression changes.

"Why did you bring something so low quality ?" "but he is......" "God is merciful. Repent for you barbaric act of satisfying your own sense of justice right now." "I-I am sorry!" "I apologize. Our church has been rude" "I won't complain if you give me my money's worth" "I appreciate your benevolence."

The priest personally goes to get the holy water. I check the holy water again.

Holy water of curse removal. Quality: High Quality

"Well, this is what we came for."

I receive the bottle of holy water.

"Is that water delicious? Give Firo some too!" "This is not for drinking. This is Raphtalia's medicine. Is there something wrong with you that requires it too?" "Yes. Firo is always energetic!" "Then it is not necessary." "Huh~?"

I turn to the priest while Firo has a question mark floating above her head.

"I am grateful. Later, please say the same to that sister at the Hourglass of the Dragon's era. That person is trying to make a fool of me." "I understand. They are shameful displays unworthy of a person of faith." ".....I see.Well, Good-bye" "Thank the guidance of God."

I feel that the priest is a pretty good person. This country would be a better place if there are more people like him. I leave the church with thank kind of impression.

"Ah! There you are!"

For some reason Itsuki, Ren, and their followers run up to us after we leave the church. What do these guys want. Everyone is gathering in the castle town, what kind of situation is this. This time Itsuki isn't wearing low quality equipment, he is wearing all high quality equipment. Itsuki is looking at me with displeasure and speaks first.

"You theif! you stole the achievements and rewards of my work" "What!?"

Why would I steal Itsuki's reward?

"Me too. The request that was meant for me was taken by you."

Ren is also denouncing me. I don't know what they are talking about. And then I remember, that plagued village that I helped may have requested help from them.

"I may have taken Ren's job, but I don't know about Itsuki." "Are you playing dumb?" "I just said I didn't know." "Wait wait. Even if Naofumi does not confess, I want to talk first." "Don't talk as if I am a criminal." "Did master do something?" "I did not do anything! At least nothing that I remember!"

While soothing Raphtalia and Firo, I glare at Itsuki and Ren.

"Anyway, explain the situation." "Then I'll start"

Itsuki started explaining his circumstances to me. It seems Itsuki received a request to investigate and if necessary exterminate feudal lords causing problems in the northern area, the fellow dressed in armour that stood out was his companion and went to receive the reward from the guild that requested his help. However, it was said that the reward of the request that the Hero of the Bow was already paid, and Itsuki concluded that the only person to do something like that was me.

"You know, Shogun-sama...... While you are hiding in the shadows and defeating evil, never revealing your true nature, people won't know who did what. I know revealing you are a hero is your hobby but there are many rumours going around." "Sho-Shogun!? Wh-What are you talking about!?" "Placing a sword on your waist and pretending to be an adventurer. Shogun-sama."

Itsuki seems to remember and starts shouting at me. Yup, that's the attitude toward requests that is giving Itsuki a problem in the first place. No one will identify you as the Hero of the Bow with that kind of appearance. Because of that, your recognition by the country has become either the Hero of the sword's or Hero of the spear's.

Why the hell am I actually evaluating something like this, it's meaningless. Being a secretive hero judging evil is cool, but it is not recognized by the world. While I am still an university student, I understand that appearances are necessary for society to acknowledge you. If somebody wants to take Itsuki's recognition for his job all he has to do is announce he is the one who did it. I mean that kind of hero will exterminate evil because he wants to, not for money or fame. ......It's a painful topic. In the sense of being a Saint.

"Did you resolve the request as the Hero of the Bow? It is only in the town where the tax is high did I hear it was you. And at that time it was because I was there." "Because I was keeping it a secret." "Then, to confirm. Is the Adventurer with the bow in the Resistance of the north country you?" "Yes that was me! I subjugated the tyrant king with the Resistance." "..... do you know what happened to the country after that?" "The bad king was overthrown, it should be prospering." "No it's not! They have become so starved they have buy food to smuggle by bartering!" "No way! Why!?" "You know, the king may have been bad, but the whole country was originally going through a famine. As for the country, all that changed was it's head." "That has nothing to do with me. Please do not shift the problem!"

Sigh......Irresponsible......Worry about it a little.

"Then let's reset the story. Did your subordinate go get the reward? Can your subordinate explain the situation?" "Yes he did! Explain! Explain it!" "The guild? Is there anything that proves your subordinate isn't the one that accepted the reward?" "That.....There's a deed. I showed a deed with the king's direct seal stamped on it."

Itsuki declares with a face full of conviction. what are you saying?

"It is a deed made with special techniques! It is impossible to counterfeit easily." "Then there is no way for me to get it." "!"

It seems something clicked in Itsuki's head.

"Th-Then the weapon!"

Are you that desperate for an excuse?...... It seems you want to pin it on me no matter what.

"It is a Hero only privilege to be able to change the form of your weapon. You changed your shield to look similar to a bow, and somehow forged another deed." "Is that so? Well all that is possible in this world." "Yes that's it, do you have any evidence to prove otherwise?" "Firo" "What's up?" "Return to your true form" "Ok"

Firo changed to her true form. At that time, Firo's one piece disappears and what's left of it becomes the collar. I point at the collar.

"What!?" "Do you understand? This is a world where something like that can be made. There may be a tool which changes shape into a bow. But it is possible for other heroes besides me." "B-But-" "Give it up Itsuki, with the present conditions and lack of evidence we cannot conclude that Naofumi was the criminal."

Ren stepped in-front of Itsuki before he tried to accuse me again.

"In the first place, did you ask the appearance of the fellow who took your achievement?" "Umm.....that......"

Itsuki ambiguously tries to answer Ren's question.

"Then give it up. Make yourself known as a hero more. Next is me." "Is this the matter of the epidemic in the east?" "If you understand then this will be quick. Why did you steal my request?" "Because I was in the area. Did you know? The corpse of the dragon you defeated was causing a plague." "What!?"

Ren was at a loss for words and just stood there. He didn't know? I thought he was a more cold hearted person.

"A lot of people were dying. There was a bran-new graveyard behind the storage facility. There would have been even more if I wasn't there." "No way......"

With tottering steps Ren tries to head east.

"Wait you don't have time to go now. The wave is soon" "But, this is my responsibility-" "I already removed the corpse of the dragon. The locals and the Treatment master took care of the plague. I did steal your request though." "Is that so......Well it can't be helped."

Ren's complexion is pale.

"You believe that!?"

Itsuki calls out to Ren with a perplexed expression.

"He has no reason to lie. Besides, the request was cancelled because it was solved. That means it is not wrong." "I was surprised when the dragon's corpse became a Zombie Dragon. Raphtalia received the curse at that time when fighting it."

I did not lie. But, it was my fault.

"Oh, is that why you came out of the church?"

Ren looks at Raphtalia and sees the bandages as his answer.

"I hope it heals quickly."

......This is unexpected. I thought Ren was a cold-blooded guy, but he seems to be weak to problems he caused himself. They say that weakness is evil though.

"Why did you leave the dragon's corpse there?" "Because...... my companion wanted to give the materials to the other adventurers."

Come to think of it, the village did say they were raking it in.

"I left it to the adventurers and the village. but......" "Next time make sure to dispose of the corpse neatly. Corpses will rot. There is danger of causing sickness when rotting. Disposing of entrails and meat are the highest priority." "Yeah......"

This is somewhat anti-climactic. Still I said nothing about the village. To think that it was their own fault.....well this was the consequence of their own deeds.

"I do not believe it."

Itsuki is more persistent than Ren.

"I will absolutely bring evidence." "Sure, bring it. However, do not fabricate it. Were you saying that you found the criminal as the Hero of the Shield? Don't interrogate too closely. You know my rumours" "......What do you mean?" "Because after a thief attacked me and I retaliated, he went to a town and declared that I robbed him." "Th-That......" "It's the same for you. Shogun-sama I hope you think about it carefully."

Itsuki seems to feel pity for me from that rumour, his glance makes me feel sick. Why are you looking at me with such eyes.

"For now let's put this matter on hold." "I am fine with that, I am not a criminal."

Seriously, I hate false accusations! Don't just attribute anything bad to me! Itsuki left in an irritating manner, and Ren seemed to be un settled as he left.

"Oh well, should we go?"

Today was an unlucky day. There were various experiences. After all, this is castle town under the jurisdiction of that trash king, so there is no way they won't be biased. Let's quickly return to the hotel.

Chapter 49

Applicants

The day was over so we decided to go to a hotel and give Raphtalia treatment. We re-dressed Raphtalia's wounds by Soaking the bandages in the holy water I bought. After the bandages have been applied, black smoke starts to rise from the wound.

"U......Ku....." "Are you okay?" "Y-yes. There's a feeling of stiffness leaving the body, and it's also quite itchy." "I see......"

I want to heal her as fast as possible. Because I injured her. The black bruise seems to have gotten lighter.

"The place Naofumi-sama wounded is healing quickly." "That's good"

I want you to recover as soon as possible.

"Ah, Raphtalia Onee-chan is sly, stop philandering with master."

Although Firo says that, she was clinging to me throughout the while treatment.

"I am not flirting!" "That's right, all I'm doing is treating Raphtalia's wounds."

Raphtalia and I are philandering...... what's with that outdated slang? Oh well. Where did you learn something like that, Raphtalia and I aren't in that kind of relationship.

"Raphtalia Onee-chan's back is black." "Please don't say such things"

These two get along quite well.

"Well, the wave is coming soon so just relax" "Okay~!" "That's right. We have been quite busy recently, relaxing occasionally is not bad." "Yeah." "Master, when are you going to make food?" "Let's see...... How about tomorrow?" "yaay~!"

In this way, while giving Raphtalia treatment, we slept at the inn.

The next day. The equipment I asked the old man to make hasn't been finished yet. There's nothing particularly important to do, it might be a good idea to show up at the magic shop or the pharmacy. Or should I go to the dressmaking shop and look?

"Now then, what should we do today?" "Let's see......" "Food!" "Yes Yes. I know."

As for recovery medicine I have already prepared a lot in between the waves...... Because Raphtalia and Firo have already hit their Level limit only I need to get levels. It might be a waste, but it would be fine to take a rest for a while. Raphtalia's wounds aren't completely healed either.

"Should I go get more holy water?" "Eh? There's still some left" "Is this enough for a complete recovery?"

Although the blackness has faded a bit, it is still far from a comeplete recovery. What is left leaves me uneasy. The effect won't be as potent if holy water is not changed every day, at this rate it there will still be some damage left during the wave.

"I sincerely apologize." "It is a wound I got myself. Don't worry about it." "Okay" "Then, let's go to the pharmacy shop, we can get food after." "Yeah!"

Raphtalia and Firo nodded, we left our baggage at the inn and headed out.

When we got to the pharmacy, the storekeeper's attitude did not change as he welcomed me.

"It's been a while"

I answer the storekeeper's first question.

"Ah, the intermediate recipe book was received and put to good use." "I see......"

Looking at the medicine handled, I am not up to par yet.

"That reminds me, my old friend the accessory merchant seems be your acquaintance." "Ha?"

I was surprised at the connection with an unexpected person.

"How did you get so friendly with that miser? He praised you highly." "You two are acquainted?" "We knew each other since the old days. That guy, he had an aptitude for using fragment medical herbs to make treatment medicine."

back then, that guy knew I was making middle class treatment medicine from smell alone!? Accessory merchant. What kind of person are you? I cannot fathom what else he might be hiding......

"Hm...... Are you still peddling?"

The storekeeper seems to have heard about me peddling from an acquaintance in Forest village.

"That guy was riding with us in the carriage when a thief that was after him appeared." "I don't think that guy would have been very happy about it."

I don't understand. Accessory merchant, are you some kind of celebrity?

"Ah, where was I? Oh right, after we captured the their, I stripped him of all his possessions, and confiscated everything from his hideout."

The store keep was silent, put a his hand on his forehead and nodded.

"That certainly does seem like you. Indeed, that fellow is also capable of something like that." "Afterwards he taught me a lot of things." "Oh, he was praising you as a quick learning, and said you were his successor in commercial spirit." "Please leave me alone"

I went peddling for equipment fee. The true purpose was not for money.

"So, what did you need today?" "Ah, do you have any High Class Recipes to sell?"

The storekeeper stops mixing.

"......That's fast, although I think you are not ready yet" "Yeah, there is also medicine that is not on a recipe that I can make too."

Strong Acid water, Magical power water, and Soul Medicine water, can't be made yet. There has been no need for these yet, but it is possible to acquire the rare materials through a distribution route learnt from the accessory merchant.

"But...... I was not able to save people with the medicine I made. Fortunately, the treatment master made Higher Class medicine. I felt inadequate in terms of ability."

The store keeper is convinced with my reply and nods.

"I see...... But it is still too early for a High Class recipe." "Is it that difficult.....?" "There are a lot of applications to medicine in Middle class recipes. Besides, there are other things you can make without a recipe."

Is it the materials necessary for compounding? Certainly it can't be that bad......

"I can still sell a High Recipe book though, but it will be expensive." "How much." "It's 500 silver coins. It cannot be lowered any further."

I understand that I am getting a good deal. Learning about medicine, I'm sure there are organizations and companies that are willing to teach, I can also imagine guilds trading information. But if I learn from somewhere there will be pressure to help them, but a recipe book will save me the trouble.

"I'll take it."

I obediently hand over 500 silver.

"Hmm......next is this"

I received a book called [Poisonous plants and Poison recipes]. I am slow but I am able to read the letters of this world, to some extent.

"Recipes for poison?" "It is impossible to avoid it when trying to be familiar with medicine. Those, are intermediate recipes." "Hmm......"

I skim through it. It contains a simple anaesthesia and other such drugs. This looks difficult. It won't hurt to learn it though, and learning the High Class recipes are out of my reach at the moment

"Thanks. Do you have beginner class recipes such as the heal pill and regular medicine?"

The storekeeper of the pharmacy almost did a splendid fall.

"......You were making middle class medicine without even knowing the fundamentals?" "I saw what you were making and remembered." "Are you a boy from a temple who can't read.....?"

Those words are a proverb from Japan. The shield is probably translating the corresponding phrase from this world. The shop keeper sighs and fluently writes something onto parchment.

"I wrote the basics of the beginner's class on this. Remember it." "Yeah"

When we left Firo was already outside because she disliked the smell from the medicine, and Raphtalia was looking at medical herbs.

"Hero of the Shield-sama!"

I hear an unfamiliar voice after leaving the pharmacy. There were 5, 14 year old kids dressed as soldiers who were out of breath. I start escaping at once. Raphtalia and Firo also start running. There are too many ideas in my mind.

"Please wait! we are not here to capture you! Please Wait!" "Then what do you want!" "I only want to talk for a little!"

......Doubtful.....Let's stop for now. If it is a lie, should I let Firo rampage?

"Haa.....Haa..... At last I can finally meet you"

The boy's shoulders are heaving while he gasps for breath.

"What do you want with me?" "Umm. Can you please let me go with during the waves......? "Come again?"

What are you saying? I look at the boy with a puzzled expression.

"We are junior soldiers who are impressed with the fighting method of The hero of the shield-sama during the earlier wave."

The boy's story is like this. During the previous wave, the low rank soldiers were impressed by the appearance of Raphtalia and I who were the only ones to stay behind and protect Forest Village. It seems the Knight's Order was complimenting me after the wave, looks like there were new rumours spreading about me while I was away.

"during town patrol I heard that the Hero of the shield was here in town so I came over to have this conversation" "Really......" "Our duty is to fight against the wave, but our top priority is to prevent damage done to the people."

That's a noble thought. Though you should be telling the other heroes that.

"Therefore, Please..... Let us participate together with Hero-sama during the wave." "I do not particularly want to fight against the wave, can't we just fight separately?"

There is a backside to this proposal. Perhaps,with soldiers and knights more active in fighting the wave security would be better. Their position will also rise due to actively participating as a companion of a hero. However, the Hero would also have to fight in the wave. I replied with sarcasm. There is status magic that requires companions. Perhaps, I can test this during one of the waves. Using this and establishing a party to fight the wave, it should probably be correct.

If anything, it may be something like offensive and defensive battles with guilds in a net game. The enemies are not human, but mistakes can be made. It would be extremely rash to fight alone against such a large amount of demons. a Hero is probably carrying the duty of defeating the boss class demons because they are the aces...... but the small fries should be able to be dealt with by the inhabitants of this world.

The last wave proves it. Because the wave spawned near the Forest village which was close to the castle town, the knight were able to rush there, but what about this time. This country is big. it would be catastrophic if the wave appeared somewhere far-off. Once that happens, the damage could not be suppressed with such a small group of people. Well, a standard strategy in fighting against the wave is the proposal I gave the boy, I want to hear his answer. Did he come to me because there would be little competition compared to the other heroes?

"We want to protect the nation along with Hero of the Shield-sama."

On the surface I can say anything.

"Are you aiming for promotions?" "No this is different."

The boy shakes his head and answers immediately. I beckon another boy who looks like a magician to me. The robes he was wearing wasn't purple like the magic shop, but a cheap yellow colour. they lined up in-front of me and bowed.

"I.....am a native from Forest Village. My family was helped by Hero of the shield-sama before.....Therefore I want to help, even if only a little." "Aah, I see."

This fellow wants to repay the kindness of helping his family?

"As Hero-sama says there are certainly people who want promotions. But, I want to help Hero of the Shield-sama" "I see, well I was just curious......hm?" "Umm......Hero-sama"

The boy in the wizard clothes looks up, pulls up his robe, and gives me a quill pen.

".....Please sign"

There might be a catch. Do I write Motoyasu in Japanese? Hm? When I look closely, this child is a Demi-human. Even in this country of human supremacy, when it comes to soldiers there was room for demi-humans. Comparing his age and the cheap costume with the wizards and knights, he should be at a low level.

I silently write my signature on his robe according to the wish of the boy, while preparing for any magic. There is no strange feelings or magic effects after I signed. Well it does not mean that nothing will happen later. I'll deal with it later if something does happen. The boy with the wizard clothes smiles happily with a slightly red face. What is this? It is itchy.

"this fellow, is a fan of Hero of the Shield-sama. From a long time ago, he heard traditions of heroes from different countries and wanted to meet the Hero of the Shield." "Wow......"

This party seems to extremely trust us and want to help. This boy is not talking, but people from the village of Toka who was saved during peddling gathered with the same thought. Well, should I try it? I turn to the boy captain in front and muttered the party formation magic. AS for the conditions of the party, party leader is me followed by Raphtalia and then Firo. Under that, the captain of the squad was given authority. As for this party, my authority takes precedence. In other words, it is possible to steal all the experience points.

"This is......" "You don't know?" "Nope" "If you are not in the party, go ask that fellow, and go gather any other people who want to participate. However, do not misunderstand. If you try to use me, or something impolite is done, I am dismissing you all immediately." "Yes! Thank you very much!"

The two saluted me and left together. I think that even in this country i can trust a little. It was only a moment where I felt that. Naturally, as I said if anything happens I will not be lenient.

Chapter 50

Before the Storm

"Lad. Your armour is not ready yet. If you are here to use the kitchen, I would like to ask you to refrain." "Why? I thought you gave me permission a while ago." "If you want to use my kitchen, some compensation is required."

After separating from the child soldiers, we stopped by the market to purchase large quantities of food. Then we proceed to impose on our handy equipment store acquaintance, and start cooking up a storm. Is this food not the my sincerity and gratitude for equipment store for providing cheap weapon and armour?

"Food! Food!"

For a while now Firo has been consuming the roast meat and skewers that I have been making.

"This smells great! Everyone who entered the shop was tempted by the smell, I went and checked when they left, and they all went to the market to buy food."

Raphtalia brings the old man some food while he is making my armour at the counter.

"Furthermore, some idiot stole some food from the dish the missy brought me, how did you produce such a taste! There is a crazy commotion since a while ago." "Just kick the guy who stole food out." "The guy who stole food was generous and bought a weapon. Lad, with you here my sales record for the month is going through the roof." "That's good. Take it as my thanks to you." "Alright. Not! This isn't some restaurant, it's an equipment store!"

For an equipment shop, you sure have a lot of additional pots and quite a big pan. Thanks to that I am borrowing a cauldron to make this world's unique curry.

"......"

An aunt from the neighbourhood peeks through the ventilation window. Along with several other adventurer like guys. I close the ventilation window with a bang. The smell drifts to the front of the equipment shop.

"Lad!"

I hear the old man's shout. Seriously...... After the curry was completed, we were evicted from the old man's kitchen, and thus end's our cooking session for Firo. Firo still seems dissatisfied and wants to eat more. There is only half of the contents in the pot left. Due to the pot left behind , the equipment shop later had a rumour about it having absurdly delicious food, but that is a story for later.

"Master, Firo wants to eat more food~"

I bought some skewers for Firo who inflated her cheeks with a dissatisfied expression, while wandering the town for cheap food.

"Hmm, should we just go make something by the riverside?" "Meat again?" "yeah, you're getting tired of it?" "I will not get tired of anything Master makes~" "sure sure"

We head back to the equipment shop to borrow an iron plate, which Firo carried. Well, we will probably become familiar with this place since we will barbecue here in the future too. I buy the proper materials and start barbecuing by the riverbank. Firo is concerned about insufficient meat so she went to the forest to horde Usapirus (tl note: Rip poor Usapiru population) We had to barbecue for a while until Firo was satisfied, and started discussing about what to do next.

"this is the first time we took it easy" "now that you bring it up, yeah it is"

Everyday in this abnormal world has been a battle, and now looking up to the blue sky gives off a very peaceful feeling. Makes one forget about the wave of disaster that is only a few days away. Unexpectedly, Raphtalia plays with the ball that I purchased for her a while go

"isn't that...... the ball that I bought for you?"

Raphtalia smiles when I point at the ball.

"So you remember"

I thought she lost it a while ago, to think she still had it.

"This is the first thing that Naofumi-sama gave me" "You were looking at it so wistfully that anyone would have bought it" "I don't think so" "Na?

After Firo cleaned up the rest of the barbecue she turned around.

"Onee-chan what are you talking about?" "It's just something that happened before Firo was born." "Hmm....."

I watch the ball bouncing around. It looks worn out and some parts are torn. Perhaps, Raphtalia was playing with the ball while I wasn't looking.

"Do you want me to buy you a new one?"

It's not an expensive item. If playing with balls is Raphtalia's hobby, then for the sake of her relaxation I would buy more. (Tl note:PFT anyone got a better translation? because this is too lewd.ボールで遊ぶのが趣味ならラフタリアの息抜きの為に買っても良いとは思う。)

"No, that is not necessary because this is my memento." "I don't get it, but......"

If she wants to treat it as a cherished memory then I will not question it.

"Do you want to play together?" "Eh!?"

Raphtalia looks at me in shock.

"What's wrong?" "No......I just didn't think Naofumi-sama is someone who wants to play with balls." "Well...... It was unavoidable I would seem someone who thinks like that. Though today would be a good day to take it easy and play."

Can we play volleyball with only the two of us? Well, there is always passing the ball back and forth without dropping it. The ball is thrown at me and I raise my hands to return it to Raphtalia. This is unexpectedly difficult...... Back then I barely ever played beach volleyball.

"Master and Raphtalia Onee-chan are playing! Firo wants to play too!"

The bird finished her meal and started making a commotion while we were tossing the ball back and forth.

"If you want to play make sure to control your power and not destroy the ball." "Okay~!" "fufufu"

Raphtalia tosses the boll very happily. Even though her body is grown up she is still a child.

"When the wave is over I'm thinking of going to another country to Class up" "Okay. I will follow you everywhere." "Firo too~"

The ball flies from Raphtalia to Firo and then finally me.

"Ah"

The ball flew behind Raphtalia and is about to fall to the ground.

"Ei!" "What!"

The ball was skilfully hit towards Firo with her tail.

"Wa...... Firo too"

Firo hits the ball with the wings on her back. you guys...... Don't use parts that common human beings don't have.

"Naofumi-sama"

I wonder what. This game is becoming one with strange conditions. It can't be helped.

"Air Strike Shield!"

The ball is bounced back by a shield that appears in the air.

"Ah that's dirty!" "It's not!"

Seriously......This is child's play. As a result of the cool down time I lost. Afterwards we just played volleyball normally.

"Well, what should we do now?"

It will be essential for Raphtalia to become stronger from Class up. Additionally, whenever a wave appears I am summoned. In the meantime, I should work on leveling up and earning money in a different country.

"We still have time. Raphtalia, Firo. Are there any accessories that you want?" "Accessory?" "Ah I can craft some so I was wondering if you two wanted any."

From a while ago I already decided to reward Raphtalia and Firo because of their hard work.

"Raphtalia, you're at the age where you want something like that right?" "Y-yes......" "Firo too!" "I understand. Now tell me what you two want."

Raphtalia seems to be dumbfounded. Is this such a rare occurrence?

"Uhmm Firo wants a hairpin"

Firo wants a hairpin huh...... that's surprising since I expected her to want a saddle or some reins.

"Hairpin? why?" "Because it won't dig into my skin after I transform."

You still mind that? Well perhaps something to stick on her head would be good. I guess it is appropriate considering how old Firo looks.

"Raphtalia what do you want?" "Me? Let's see......"

Raphtalia thinks for a while before answering.

"I want a bracelet. Granting an effect is important. It will be useless if there is no meaning." "Huh?" "Naofumi-sama an item that can raise my abilities would be preferable."

I wonder what. My mind seems to have trouble understanding Raphtalia's answer. A bracelet that gives an effect. I thought she would have wanted rings, earrings, or a necklace. Is my brain just bad?

"O-okay. I'll make it properly" "Firo too~" "Yeah yeah"

We played at the grassy plain till the end of the day, and then returned to the hotel to prepare for the wave.

Chapter 51

The Third Disaster

Today is the day that the old man finishes creating the equipment I ordered. We arrive when the shop opens.

"Oh, it's the lad. You sure are early" "I guess. So how is it? were you able to finish it?" "Of course. By the way, your pot of of food has become an enormous topic for some reason." "How would I know. Ask the guy who is spreading the rumour." "That's impossible......"

The old man brings out our armour from the back of the shop. Rather than making a barbaric suit by sewing bones to it, the dragon and chimera bones were grounded to a powder to make bone mail. Probably. It's like Hokuto no Ken clothing Mark 2. (tl note: Fist of the north star reference) By the way is this called a racing suit or a rider suit?

"Old man, do you want to make me the king of thieves that badly?"

It may be because originally the materials were meant to be made in to savage tribal armour.

"Huh? What're you saying lad?"

As for wearing this...... Despite this being a fantasy world all I can think about is the Showa Era. For now I might as well test its performance.

"By the way, how is this armour?" "That was already quite difficult to custom-make, it's as good as Barbarian Armour +1" "This +1 looks like it's not complete yet. Did you say whether or not there are clothes made from the Dragon skin to go with this?"

Even the design is different. The front is from Hokuto no Ken, and the lustre from the zombie dragon skin reminds me of rubber. Only the chest has a pitiful amount of metal to protecting it. What can I say? It's perfect to ride on a motorcycle with. Since there is no motorcycle in this would, will I be roaring across the lands on Firo? Stop thinking about!

Barbarian Armour +1? Defence Up Shock Resistance (Intermediate) Flame Resistance (High) Darkness Resistance (High) Hp recovery (Weak) Magic Up (Intermediate) Enchantment: Automatic Restoration

There are various resistances. Automatic restoration...... I don't know the efficiency from this alone. I wonder if it will repair itself if It is ruptured...... Based on these bonuses alone the performance should be great, I seem to have to wear these clothes that cannot be called armour.

"What's up lad? Have you seen this armour before?" "You do know I'm not from this world right? In my world...... the comparison for this would would be clothes you wear while riding Philo Rial or horses." "In that case, Master wear it and get on Firo!"

Firo stares at me with sparkling eyes.

"Lad. What this little bird Missy just said sounds incredibly obscene."

The old man mutters with a bit of a disgusted look in his eyes.

"Shut up!"

Old man, did you make this armour with thoughts of harassing me?

"What's wrong lad?"

......Should be different. There is no malice.

"W-well. I'll take it."

Raphtalia commented that I looked good dressed like that. Wearing this outfit around town......I feel isolated. ......It's not even armour, it's more like clothes. Very sad.

Well, the preparations for the wave have finished without a problem. Raphtalia's black bruises have recovered completely thanks to the strong holy water used every day. I heaved a sigh of relief because it was able to be completely cured. There might still be a scar left. But, I wanted to heal her as soon as possible. Accessories for Raphtalia and Firo were also completed today.

"Here is the accessories you asked for" "Yay~!" "Okay" "First off, Raphtalia"

I pass Raphtalia a bracelet made of jade.

"Thank you very much" "The enchantment on that is Magic Up (Small). It will also act as a lightning rod for magic cast on you that lowers your Magic Defence." "I'll treasure it." "Is that really all you want? I can seriously make you some nice looking jewellery if you want." "What are you saying. We can't afford to waste time on looks."

That's right. It can't be helped if the person herself doesn't want it.

"Next, Firo"

I pass Firo hairpin made of amber. I put emphasis on the shape to make it look like a wing, to match Firo's demon form.

"It has an enchantment for Dexterity Up (small)" "Thank you master~" "I was a little limited by the materials on hand. If you want any changes then endure it for now." "There are no problems with it. I will use this accessory to it's maximum potential." "Yup! Firo will work hard!" "I have high hopes"

We take the rest of the time to prepare. I made some arrangements with the kids who volunteered earlier. Firo has already been briefed about fighting against the wave. At first Firo had a question mark above her head asking about what the wave was, but after a while she understood. Medicine has been prepared. The carriage.....Is broken, and since the new one isn't completed yet, Firo pulled a cart instead. Anyway, it seems to have become my duty to protect any villages in the vicinity since the other heroes just run off. Though I am not actually needed to participate, it would be despicable to just abandon people.

00:05

5 Minutes left. It seems i can sense where we will appear so I let the volunteer soldiers know beforehand. Change shield to the Chimeric Viper Shield.

00:00

It's time! A loud sound similar to glass shattering echoes. The scenery changes instantly. We scan the neighbourhood calmly.

"This is......"

Yeah. Near the village with that man who was bringing medicine to his mother who was suffering from an illness. No matter how much they rush the earliest anyone would make it here form the castle town would be a day and a half. There are red cracks spreading through the sky.

"Hero of the Shield-sama!"

The volunteers who were also summoned run up to me. As for the other three heroes----.

"Firo! If you're going to kick that spear bastard do it so that he flies towards the cracks. It'll help him get there faster." "Okay~!"

Firo listens to my order and runs off. Due to her speed she catches up to the correct party.

"Eh----?"

As soon as the spear bastard looks back he is kicked by Firo.

"""Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaa"""

His whole party was kicked away. It feels good to see that fucking woman also getting blown away. Though there wasn't much damage since Firo held back.

"Wh-What did you do that for!"

It seems the spear is trying to say something to us. I ignore the spear and glare at the bow and sword. (Tl note: He's not saying any of the hero's names just calling them by their weapons)

"Stop being a fool and wasting time!" "what is up with you right now!?" "Yeah! We must defeat the enemies spawned from the wave!"

I am amazed at anger of the foolish heroes.

"Listen to me first, you can hunt the enemy afterwards."

I direct the volunteers towards the neighbouring village. They nodded and ran off towards the village according to my orders.

"Now...... Stop interfering with our work!" "It's different!"

Itsuki is surprised by my roar and looked at me with bulging eyes.

"Calm down and think about it. Because I cannot receive aid money, I will not fight against the main body of the wave. As far as I am concerned I will be trying to defend the towns and villages within the neighbourhood. Do you guys understand?" "Yeah" "You are disqualified as a hero" "that's right!"

All their followers are taunting me.

"Now you guys. Defeating the enemies who spawn from the waves is your job. I do not know whether or not the wave is stopped if you defeat the boss." "It is connected to the boss!"

Itsuki seems to have gotten excited and answers. Such a thing doesn't matter.

"However, besides that we have important work......do you guys understand?" "What would that be?"

Ren even you don't understand? I mean you should know since this world resembles a game. Why don't you understand? To ask that would sound very sarcastic so I'll hold back.

"Do you guys know about the Knights?"

The the heroes close their eyes at my voice.

"They will come later"

I bring out a magic flare and show them.

"The distance from here to the castle town is one and a half days on horse or philo rial. That's too far!. "Then, what should we do!" "How did you get this information!?"

I point at the volunteers running towards the village.

"Now that I think about it...... How did you transfer with those people?" "Seriously? You guys don't even know the Party function......?" "For companions? I thought we couldn't have that many." "This is different...... A party leader is nominated and everyone who is within the party is a subordinate, that also makes them all part of the transfer."

Perhaps......these guys. I have more knowledge about the wave compared to them?

"First of all that was confirmation. Now it is confirmed that we can bring help during the waves."

...... Nobody says anything.

"Do you guys know of the help and tutorial?" "Yeah. We have mastered this world." " Anyway, our top priority is to suppress the wave......so, see ya!" "then fighting against the wave for you guys...... is a game? "What?" "What about it?" "Let's hurry and go!"

My question was disregarded by Itsuki who ran off.

"Motoyasu, do you know the meaning of my question?" "Well...... Instant dungeon?"

No......

"This is different. Is it a time attack wave?"

Ren......that is also wrong.

"Is it like a guild war? or a game with large scale battles?"

there was a game in my original world where there was a big even in which the players had only a week to participate. As expected, It seems that the only ones who can use the party system are the heroes. In fact, if the knights were late last wave and if I retreated the damage would be tremendous.

"......Do you understand it completely because you used to run a big guild?"

Since their co-operation is top priority I'll just be subtle about it. Of course the Heroes who are ace players have to lead the charge. But, to minimize damage we must co-operate with the residents of this world. The fact that they don't understand is amusing.

"I managed a team before."

Is Motoyasu's answer. He glances at Firo's demon form. Well he probably doesn't want to be kicked.

"Then you cannot understand." "I don't need to." "Huh!?" " It will all work out one way or another."

Sigh..... Am I a secretary making sure you do your work?

"I'm not interested in this."

Ren......I'm not good at talking to people about guild warfare since I didn't participate. He is armour is quite cool. I want to know if this guy is capable of managing a large-scale guild.

"Anyway, this time we need to do our best, and make sure to bring knights next time."

I need to lay a foundation to combat the waves. Both Ren and Motoyasu run off without hiding their unpleasantness towards me. Hey, Don't spit on the road!

"Anyway. Let's go the village in the neighbourhood too." "Okay~!"

We got in the cart, and Raphtalia hurried to the village with me.

"Ouch-!"

We arrived at the village just as the wave got there. Everything is covered in shadows, wolves, lizardmen, condors, and some goblins. These guys remind me of Demi-humans, but all dark and covered with shadows. Respectively they are called, Dark Condor, Black Wolf, Assault Shadow Goblin, and Shadow Lizardmen. (tlnote: ゴブリンアサルトシャドウ That is the best name for a goblin ever) And there was "Dimensional" added before each of their names. They are just like ghosts that disappear into shadows when defeated. it's downright creepy. These demons are totally different from the previous wave, is this going to be the case from now on? At any rate, I'll leave all the troublesome things to those guys. That is.

"Acha-!"

I hear a strange battle cry from the old woman whom I fed medicine to. She is faring well with a hoe in one hand. The volunteers are perplexed by this old woman as well.

"Ah, the saint! Thanks for the medicine! Acha-!"

The old woman bows to me after delivering blow after blow with the hoe to the demons that are rushing forwards This old woman is quite strong, there are demon corpses left and right.

"Hey, you come over here and say thanks." "Uhm right, Thank you very much."

The son of the old woman bows to me too.

"Anyway, for the time being please evacuate and take shelter, these enemies are spawning from the wave."

The volunteers are instructing the villagers to take refuge. The intervals between more enemies arriving and eliminate the current demons is quite small. We also join the suppression of the enemy.

"Acha-!"

The old woman casually slaughters the enemies. Are these really the movements of a person who was about to die a month ago?

"My old strength was returned thanks to the divine blessings of the saint. Hahaha!"

The old woman glares at her son and he also starts fighting to his fullest but he seems quite shy. However, he is not as good as his parent. The volunteers are barely able to put up a fight. No one can compare to the old woman.

"Even though I look like this, back in my prime I was quite a famous adventurer. My level is the same as my age! Acha-!" "What a reckless grandmother!"

I don't think even a thousand would be a match for her. While I hold back the enemy, they are massacred by power that is comparable to Firo. I'm scared that when the battle is over she will run out of battery and drop.

"What did I give that old woman to drink?" "Who knows......"

Raphtalia watches the grandmother with utter amazement. I will have to question her son closely later. Anyway, now is time to treat any injured people.

"It is top priority for those who are injured fall back from the defence line towards the cart."

I perform treatment on injured people while giving instructions.

"Acha! Saint-sama, it seems there's a suspicious one among the invaders."

It seems there is a fairly big Dimensional Shadow Lizardman mixed in. He is about twice the size of the others.

"Raphtalia, Firo, we'll kill that fellow together."

The volunteers will be a burden.

"Okay!" "Okay~!"

I run towards the big game. The Dimensional Shadow Lizardman is brandishing a huge black sword. I run in front of it and hold up my shield. A loud screeching sound can be heard as sparks scatter. Snake's Poison Fang (Intermediate) activates and poisons the enemy. But there is barely any effect. This kind of enemy is a reptile after all. However, poison is not what I was aiming for.

"Eryaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

A fearless Raphtalia pierces her sword right in to the abdomen of the Dimensional Shadow Lizardman.

"Deryaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

The face of the Dimensional Shadow Lizardman is blown away by a single blow from Firo. Dimensional Shadow Lizardman falls over and collapses on it's back.

"Amazing......"

One of the volunteers unconsciously lets his thoughts out.

"Good! You guys go around the village and do damage control."

If the grandmother, six volunteers , and some adventurers who live here go protect the village a lot of the damage can be avoided. There should still be other villages in this neighbourhood. It will be dangerous if we do not go help as soon as possible.

"Use what medicine you need, the ride won't be comfortable. Let's get going."

Some volunteers get into the cart per my instructions.

"Let's go!" "Roger~!"

Firo pulls the cart that has become heavier, and starts running with her explosive power. When we arrived at the next village, some volunteers looked to be in pain, but it wasn't particularly bad so I ignored it. This village seems to have taken a lot more damage than the previous one. Houses were burnt, and some villagers are injured.

"Hurry go rescue anyone you can!" "O-Okay!"

While slaughtering demons we were waiting for the wave to end.

"......So slow!"

3 hours have passed since then. We are barely able to defend the villages in the neighbourhood, but dealing with endless waves of demons is not very helpful. The evacuation of villagers was done properly, and the casualties amongst villagers were minimal. The refugees were not attacked when spotted because we were here. So our offences and defences continue as is. It would be too late regardless. How long are those heroes going to take?

"Hero-sama, leave this place to us. Shouldn't you go support the other Hero-samas?"

The child soldier who greeted me first gave the proposal.

"There is no meaning if I go......"

If I go to help them defeat the boss, they will just complain that I went to steal glory.

"But......"

The volunteers looks exhausted. Fighting for 3 hours against unending enemies will do that to your stamina. Raphtalia, and Firo are also considerably tired. I am no different.

"Ahahahaha-!"

Firo kicks a Dimensional Assault Shadow Goblin while laughing. Yup. Firo is still all right. That bird is a massive lump of stamina.

"Will you be fine?" "Please leave it to me!"

There seems to be some stamina left over.

"Then I'll take you up on your offer. I'm counting on you." "Okay!' "Raphtalia, Firo, let's go!" "Understood." "Okay~!"

We left the village to the volunteers and adventurers, while we rode towards the boss of the wave on Firo.

Chapter 52

Grow Up

"It should be around here......I think" "I think so too" "Yup"

A big wine red crack is spreading from the ground, and is the foundation of the wave. One after another demons crawl out from there.

"Hm?"

There is a fish-like ghost that is pure white, has red eyes, a big wide mouth with fangs, and a brutal countenance. But, it's lying down. Did the big game from the waves already die? It's very ghost-like...... There is a feeling that physical attacks will not work on this demon.

"A fish?" "What the hell is this......" "Hmm...... This doesn't look like too difficult of an enemy." "You think so?" "Normal attacks won't be effective. Only magic should have an effect."

There is knowledge from net games about requiring magic attacks.

"Then Firo can fight!" "Huh? Won't a kick not work?" "Yup. Firo, can also use attack magic?" "Say that from the beginning!" "Noo. Kicking is faster than magic."

Sigh...... Firo does not understand how useful magic can be. Asking the person in question for answers is like trying to grasp clouds.

"Did those guys beat the boss?"

Where are they? As I look around restlessly there are sounds of clashing metal.

"Over there?" "You're right. Let's go over there"

Firo also hears it, so we run towards the direction of the sound.

"Rinbu Rei no Kata ・Gyaku Shiki Setsugekka!" (Tl note: I am not translating the name of attacks, unless you want something like Circular Dance Model Zero ・ Reverse of Sub Zero Flowers.)

The sky that is stained with red starts to shine. When I look up there is a red moon that looks like it was cast by an antagonist. Then, something in the form of a person drew a circle through it and then there was a red flash.

"""Guaaaaaaaaa!"""

We arrived as simultaneous screams erupted. Motoyasu, Ren, and Ituski are trapped within a tornado, whole their companions are collapsed all over the place.

"Guha!"

What on earth happened here? From what I can tell the enemy fired off a huge magic attack at this place. No, no, these guys should be considerably high levelled. They shouldn't have been defeated so easily. But, What is going on? Motoyasu was tossed near us.

"Meteor Spear should have hit......"

Ren mutters in response to Motoyasu.

"Metoer Sword should have worked......"

And Itsuki.

"Meteor Bow should have done something......" (Tlnote: 流星弓,流星剣,流星槍 10/10 naming sense.) What?

"......Do you guys want to be popular?"

The heroes have all fainted. Well, I think they aren't dead yet. Meteor...... is that hip?

"Are you their reinforcements?"

After the tornado stops a person appears from the centre. This fellow is wearing a jet black kimono with silver embroidery, it feels like clothes that are to be worn during a funeral back in my world. There stood a beautiful girl. Her face in no way inferior to Raphtalia. Her personality seems serious, and her hair is long. But, something is off. Sometimes, she looks slightly translucent, just like a ghost. Her weapon is an iron fan. holding an iron fan with both hands, seems like a dance. This human shaped woman seems to be victor here.

"The heroes of this world seem to be all bark and no bite, quite a disappointment."

That......human shaped woman declares as she turns around.

"Master~, this person is very strong."

Firo informs me while all the feathers on her body stand on end.

"Yes, I feel a strong pressure here. This strength is far from a normal demon."

Raphtalia also warns me while her tail is standing up.

"So you defeated these fools?"

I step on the fucking woman's unconscious face while asking.

"Hmm...... Is that how you treat your companions?"

It seems the woman in the kimono does not like my attitude.

"I apologize, but you can't be any more incorrect about her being my companion."

After trampling her face about 3 more times my anger is a little appeased.

"Doesn't matter, what you are doing is unjust." "Speaking of unjust, this bitch has done far crueller acts. I have quite a grudge." "Master is like a villain~" "Shut up" "I do not have a just argument for the enemy......"

Raphtalia is a little amazed as she mutters. The gallery is being annoying.

"Can Firo do that too?"

Firo raises her foot and aims it at Motoyasu.

"Stop it, if you do it he will die." "Okay~"

The enemy seems a little amazed at our attitude.

"......Although they are not your companions, your actions are not that of a just human's." "Say whatever you like" "Well, I lost in this world, but I cannot leave."

The enemy charges with her iron fan. That's fast! I raise my shield at once. Gagin! Damn......That's very heavy. Even the zombie dragon did not have so much weight behind it's attacks. Such a heavy attack from an iron fan, it would seriously be dangerous if Raphtalia or Firo took one of these.

"Raphtalia, Firo! Be careful......She's strong." "Okay!" "Sure!"

"I am the Hero of the shield who deciphers and calls forth the power of nature to defend!" "Fast Guard!"

After I cast support magic on all three of us, the fight begins. The opponent grasped my intention so she changed locations. We chased. So that other heroes and their companions would not wake up and interfere. She probably took down the boss of the wave too. I receive painful wounds from the iron fan whenever I receive an attack anywhere besides my shield. Whenever I have some room I cast heal on myself, but this is very intense. Her attacks are not only quick, they are also extremely strong. She tried to change her aim to Raphtalia and Firo but I prevent her.

"As if I'd let you!"

So to obstruct her I pulled her leg.

"Ugh......Release me immediately!"

However, you cannot remove my restraints with something like that.

"Are you the same combat type?......This is more troublesome than those people before."

The enemy remains nonchalant even after being subjected to Snake's Poison Fang (Intermediate). As for her defence, I had to put that under serious reconsideration after she blocked an attack from Raphtalia and Firo. In any chase, she's strong. In everything. The fact that the other heroes got defeated is proof enough.

"Master, Watch Firo's magic~"

Firo crosses her left hand over her right, and rushes towards the enemy.

"Here I come~"

For a moment, yes only a moment, Firo turned into a blur. GeshiGeshiGeshiGeshiGeshi! A shock that vibrates from impact is felt through the enemy.

"Damn......!"

The enemy has a face full of agony.

"Seriously...... this person is so obstinate. To receive Firo's attack and not fly away." "such a heavy attack...... It's strength rival's that of the Hero of the Sword. To kick me that heavily eith times in an instant......"

Eh? You can see Firo's attacks?

"Firo, do it again!" "Eh......Impossible, My magic power is exhausted and it takes time to prepare."

Was that Firo's sure kill attack?

"Eat this!"

Raphtalia pierces the opening.

"Naive!"

The iron fan intercept the sword at the last moment. Bakin!

"Wh-"

Raphtalia's sword broke? Just how much strength does she have. Originally iron fans can break swords, but that requires complete mastery. Even though I applied Fast Guard, I am barely able to block with my shield. And Firo has already used her trump card.

"Damn......"

Rapthalia backs off and pulls out a spare. Is there any way to win......

"Huff.....Huff......That's quite enough."

No, we may have a chance if this becomes a battle of attrition. This fellow fought against all 3 other heroes and their companions. No matter who you are there should still be fatigue.

"I'll end it with this."

The enemy's whole body starts glowing. That's bad! This is the same attack that took out the those 3"

"Raphtalia, Firo!"

The enemy starts to rotate at high speed like a dance. Raphtalia and Firo hide behind me, although just barely they were able to make it.

"Shield Prison!"

A cage made out of shields and magic surrounds us.

"Rinbu Rei no Kata ・Gyaku Shiki Setsugekka!"

A great storm descends from the iron-fan and starts cutting down my shields.

"Dammit......"

what an incredible attack. No wonder the other heroes got swept up in it, even I am barely able to hold.

"You two, are you okay?" "Barely" "It hurts......"

When I look back both of them looked like they've taken considerable damage. I applied heal ointment onto the wounds. Because of the ranged cure skill, their wounds were gradually cured.

"Really?......To receive my trump and stand......Your defence is quite something."

The tornado stops, and the enemy appears again.

"I am honoured by your praise."

Though I am quite beat up, we haven't lost yet. But we have nothing to get us out of this pinch.

"Ei~!"

Firo moves at high speeds and damages the enemy little by little. This will be a long battle. Whether or not we can win this battle of attrition is doubtful. What to do...... There is only one move in this circumstance that can reverse the situation.

"Raphtalia"

I catch Raphtalia who falls down.

"What's wrong?" "Lend me your power......"

It seems Raphtalia guessed what I was going to do.

"Okay. I am Naofumi-sama's sword. Even if you go through hell I will follow." "......I know"

I believe it. There is no fear at all that my trust will be betrayed. But if I lose here, then Raphtalia and Firo will die...... Though I dislike to, I wish with all my heart that I want to protect by all means. I will absolutely not get consumed by anger. I swear so...... I place my hand on my shield and think. Shield of Anger!

Growth Up due to stone of the Zombie Dragon. Ability improvement of the Curse Series, Shield of Anger! Shield of Anger 2 Ability Unsealed......Equipment Bonus: Skill "Change Shield (Attack)" "Iron Maiden" Special Effect: Self-Burning Curse Physical Strength Up Rage of the Dragon Roar Frenzy of Companions

Then----- Is this the last memory of the dragon that I absorbed into my shield? A scene is projected. A part of the chest and the middle of the forehead is pierced by the Hero of the Sword. The anger felt is far beyond imagination. I lost to that human. I was able to understand how much of a humiliation it was for the dragon Grow Up......Like hell!? The shape of the shield changed from one surrounded by flame to one that resembles a dragon. Furthermore, in conjunction with the shield, Barbarian Armour +1 also changed. Is the cause from......The decaying dragon core? The Rider Suit changes to look like a Jet-Black Dragon.

And as compensation, a black shadow clouds my view......

Chapter 53

Iron Maiden

Red Dragon Flame...... The Shield of Anger 2 that was changed by a black shadow.

"Uooooooooooooo!"

When I shout the air vibrates, it's as if the world resonated with me.

"What......"

The enemy stops fighting Firo and looks at me with a loss for words. Just like the first time it is extremely dangerous to hold the Shield of Anger, it is trying to consume my heart. The shield's anger has increased......Is this the result of my upgrades? Damn...... My view is warped.

"Naofumi-sama"

Suddenly, I feel a gentle touch. It is probably Raphtalia. I.....I will not lose here. I shake the black shadow off and restore my vision. And I look the enemy straight in the eye.

"U......Uuaaaa"

What!? When I look at Firo I feel a strange resonance with her.....The flame from my shield stays on Firo without burning her.

"Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

Firo sharpens her eyes like a bird of prey and kicks the enemy. Is this due to the Dragon Core that was absorbed by the shield?

"W-What is going on. This is even heavier than before......"

The enemy is in dismay due to Firo's attacks But, I can't tell if Firo is self-aware or not, all I can see in her eyes is rage in violence for the enemy.

"What happened."

The enemy approaches and asks.

"Oh, It's my trump card."

I still have my ego. It's going to be alright. I did not yield to anger because there was someone who will believe in me. I provoke the enemy despite all the cold sweat. I also instruct Raphtalia with my eyes to stay away.

"Are you okay?" "Yeah, I can still restrain it."

I approached the enemy

"Uaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa"

Special Effect, Roar. It is probably something that increases the vibrations in the air.

"Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!"

In response to my roar, Firo recklessly charges the enemy with me.

"Damn......" "Don't dodge please!" "As If I'd do that!"

While the enemy is dealing with Firo using her iron fan. I also enter the fray. Gagin! Alright, the attack is lighter compared to when I had the Chimeric Viper Shield. In this case it is not necessary to hunker down.

The fire from the Curse revolves around me. According to my anger, the heat increases or decreases. If I don't keep my anger in check, then the fire power would be extrodinary. But, as for the flames, the power of the curse is still in there.

"What!?"

When Firo dived recklessly through my flames she falls to the ground instantly. Good! The black flame will take down the enemy.

"But......It's not an attack that I cannot endure."

.....Though she took my flames head on it wasn't fatal.

"Rinbu Yabu No Kata ・ Kikkō wari!" (Tl note: 「輪舞破ノ型・亀甲割！」 If anyone's got anything better I'm all ears.)

The Iron Fan was retracted and came piercing towards me. It resembles an arrow. Dangerous! I ready my shield with that in mind. Gatun, a heavy impact, and pain can be felt throughout the body. My body was damaged through the shield

"Damn......" "Hey, was I supposed to fall from that attack?......"

It is hard to stay calm from the pain. But if I lose my cool we all die here.

"It was quite a good attack"

That attack was probably meant for penetration, at least that's what it would do in games. Even if defence is very high, it would be ignored and have no meaning. There is also the possibility that it will do more damage the higher defence their opponent has. Is this the weakness of the Hero of the Shield?

This is an old rule of thumb from net games, there are numerous ways to deal with any problem. I do not know if my knowledge from those games apply to this world, but there are some-things that will always be true.

The enemy's offensive ability is simply too high while the shield is weak. Next, avoid attacks. It is a common sense against enemies that use instant death attacks. Finally, need some fire power. The way to overcome absolute offensive ability without dying is the role of a tank.

Until now, I tried to think of reasons that the shield is weak, but none of them really apply. ......I don't understand. Anyway, I need to concentrate now.

Using Fast heal I cure myself. I don't know whether or not the other party can heal, but I won't take any chances.

"I know the weakness of your attacks."

The enemy declares grandly.

"Your only attack is the black flame which is close range. It cannot attack me from a distance. And that also makes your roar useless."

Damn...... It hurts to be analysed She is quite suitable as a warrior. Insight is great. It if were someone else, she would not lose. If someone like her is part of the wave then won't it become a disaster?

"However, once I take out your companions you are have chance of winning from a distance!"

The enemy changes her aim to Firo

"Gaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" "You think I'd let you!?

Damn, it takes too long to catch up since Firo and her are so fast. Anything......Isn't there anything on hand I can use? Then it hits me.

Change Shield (Attack) Iron Maiden (Tl note: Author typo'd here,it's supposed to be チェンジシールド but he wrote 　チェンジールド http://ncode.syosetu.com/n3009bk/53/ for confirmation if you want.) It is the skill that comes with the Shield of Anger. Doing a last all-or-nothing attack isn't too bad. I think it was...... Shield Prison -> Change Shield (Attack) -> Iron Maiden. This is probably a skill that can only be used by consecutively using different skills. It might be a combination skill.

"Shield Prison"

I use the skill that surrounds the enemy within shields.

"Please don't think I'll be stopped so easily."

However, it is extremely difficult to catch an enemy that moves with this skill. Damn, this is also dangerous for Firo since they are moving so recklessly. I don't know if you will receive a fatal injury. The cage disappears doing nothing and only the cool down time remains.

"Naofumi-sama, did you think of something?" "Yeah, is there any way you can stop her from moving?"

It would be very dangerous, but it would give me the best chance of catching her within the cage.

"I understand. I'll do my best" "W-Will you be alright?" "I'll be fine. I can fight today thanks to Naofumi-sama."

Raphtalia takes a stance with her sword and concentrates. Her tail is also standing up......Is she going to use magic?

"Match my timing because I'll stop her." "Yeah!"

After some light appeared from her tail Raphtalia ran towards the enemy.

"Deryaaaaaaaaaaa!" "To come from the front is truly foolish!"

An arrow of light that is the iron fan is fired towards Raphtalia. But, Raphtalia dodges it by lowering her posture.

"Deei!"

The enemy was slashed at with the sword.

"You're full of openings!"

Raphtalia resumes her posture but is slashed by the enemy. Su...... Raphtalia scattered and simmered into the air.

"What!?"

There is a fizzing sound. Then, Raphtalia appears from behind the enemy and knocks her down.

"Now!" "Got it!"

I respond to Raphtalia's instructions. Firo has already moved away since she can tell I am about to use a skill. It seems she can be manipulated by the Shield of Anger.

"Shield Prison!" "What--"

The enemy is caged by shields. The cage seems to break at any moment due to her attacks. Not happening. I will not let the chance that Raphtalia made go to waste.

"Change Shield (Attack)"

I shout the name of the skill. The shields that are available to the changed to appears. The shield which I chose is the Bee Needle Shield!

"--!"

The shields change and the inside is attacked. An impact spreads throughout the cage. Iron Maiden! When I was about to shout the name of the skill, a sentence appears in my head.

"The foolish criminal will feel with their whole body the embrace of virgin iron in a single blow.Release a cry full of painful agony that will not be heard!!" "Iron Maiden!"

A huge iron tortue device known as the iron maiden appears as I chant and wraps around the cage.

"------------!"

The cage of shield breaks and is confined by the iron maiden and pieced, not even the cry is let heard! At the same time my Sp hits 0. Th-this skill, does it use all of it's caster's SP as the sacrifice? And the effect time of the Iron Maiden disappears.

"Gufu--"

With her whole body penetrated the enemy glares at me while breathing heavily.

"I am very dissatisfied......But I have no choice but to withdraw for today......"

You can still stand after receiving such a skill?

"You think I'll let you escape!?" "Ha!"

The enemy starts running towards the crack in the sky. When I look at Firo she doesn't seem to want to chase. It seems Roar is necessary to order Firo to charge recklessly, but I cannot use it because I have no more SP. We almost beat her.

"My name is glass..... You, what is your name?"

Before she entered the crack she turned around and pointed at me.

"Is it necessary for me to respond?" "No it is not. But I want to remember the person who cornered me like this. That's it." "As expected of a warrior, though there are a lot of things I want to know." "Then, let me give the person who has the shield one piece of information."

What? What are you saying?

"It is a big mistake to think of me as a mere disaster. But, it is not I who will win, It is the one beyond the boundary."

Hm.....This information is surely important. I know nothing about what kind of thing a wave is. Glass..... It is necessary to know the meaning of her words, but also about the meaning of the waves. At least the enemy is an intellectual living entity. I have been too obsessed with that Bitch Princess and Trash King. The true enemy that we Heroes fight are these fellows from the wave.

Hm.....It seems I have enemies behind and in-front of me......

"Understood. Thanks for the information, My name is Iwatani Naofumi." "Naofumi...... I'll remember it!"

When Glass declares that and enters the crack it starts to disappear. Shortly after it vanishes. I immediately change Shield of Anger 2 to another shield. Although that shield gives me a temporary Power Up I cannot use it for too long.

"Haah......" "We did it." "I guess." "Funyaa...... Did something happen?"

Raphtalia just catches up to me as I turn around, and Firo falls to the ground in exhaustion.

"Was the wave settled somehow?" "I think so" "Firo is tired......" "Is that so. Let's ignore the other heroes and go clean up."

Thus, the third wave in this world ended.

Chapter 54

Farewell

We returned to where the boss died to check up on those heroes who have fainted with volunteers and villagers. So unnecessary.....

Well I had to return to get materials from the wave for my shield to abosrb, since the Assault Shadow Goblin and Shadow Lizardmen were only shadows they could not be absorbed. No, I have a feeling that if i make a lump of shadows and compress it I should be able to absorb it.

Shadow Shield Ability Unsealed......Equipment Bonus: Darkness Resistance (Small)

The other guys are omitted because the only equipment bonus they provided was for stats. (Tl note: It's not because I'm lazy he just says 他の奴等は全部ステータスアップ系の装備ボーナスしかないので省略する。) The big ghost-like fish that the other Heroes defeated is quite desirable.

"Aan~" "Don't eat it."

Because Firo was about to eat the head I ordered her to stop. As for why this bird went berserk, the cause is still unknown. My speculation is that it should be due to the dragon core that this fellow carelessly ate.

"But......"

When I was about to pick it up my hand fell through and onto the ground, it was quite surprising.

"How did you pick it up?" "I used wind magic on my hand" "Hah......"

I can't even touch it barehanded,this sure is quite the strange fish. I asked the volunteer soldiers to bring the other heroes here, It seems their exclusive weapons are necessary. Since one of them possess a weapon with a cheap attribute that is useful, I'll have to borrow it. According to Firo, the item itself has to have magic imbued. My shield absorbs a part of the head.

Soul Eater Shield Ability Unsealed......Equipment Bonus: Skill "Second Shield" Soul Resistance (Intermediate) Mind Attack Resistance (Intermediate) SP Up Special effect: Soul Devour Sp recovery (Weak)

Even though the demon head was dismantled the name did not disappear so it doesn't really matter. I absorb another part but there is no change either. However, I am curious as to what the Second Shield skill does. As for soul resistance......It is probably resistance against attacks of this type. the name Soul Devour makes me slightly anxious. It seems I can eat souls; it's quite unpleasant. The shape of my shield changes slowly. The design seemed to be based off of this demon's head since it is attached to my shield. ...... It's defence is greater than the Chimeric Viper Shield. It seems Soul Devour is a skill that is exclusive to this shield.

So I reach out my hand. When I do so I am unable to touch the flesh of the soul eater. But it still feels different somehow. Good. I don't want anything that will consume souls, I don't have such a hobby. It's probably a counter effect. It will probably just absorb the enemy's SP. Now then, what will the skill Second Shield do? I'll experiment.

"Second Shield!"

Air Strike Shield -> Second Shield

An icon appears.

"Air Strike Shield!"

After I confirm the Air Strike Shield appearing I once again call out

"Second Shield!"

......Another shield appears. I see. It seems I'll be able to add another shield on top of Air Strike Shield within it's effect duration. This will have various uses, but the performance of the second shield may be different.

I pay more attention to the remains of the Soul Eater.

"I want to absorb the rest, but then those annoying fellows won't shut up about it......

They probably won't shut up. This is troubling since there are beings stronger than the heroes who are already the strongest in this world. If those three are this weak, even if I become strong I won't be able to take it easy. Sigh...... Should I just leave?

"Master, can Firo have the rest?"

The bird is slobbering everywhere while being noisy.

"Can't be helped......"

I cut the area from the back bone to the tail and give it to Firo. Who ate it it one gulp.

"This texture is like a slime~" "Wait a minute bird. When did we encounter slimes?" "Uhmm you see~"

I'll omit the details and abbreviate. As a result I was angry. In the meaning that I didn't get to absorb any by my shield.

"Alright, let's help out with the reconstruction of the village."

Along with the volunteers we started helping out around the village, by processing demon corpses and reconstructing any damaged buildings. Still, I cannot help everyone. So my top priority became making meals and treating injuries.

"Okay!"

The volunteers obediently did what I asked without question. It seems I don't need to doubt them anymore. One night passed after the long fight, it seems the knights have finally arrived. Along with the volunteers I was summoned by an angry knight leader.

"Bastard! who gave you permission to selfishly take my soldiers!" "This isn't the Hero-sama's responsibility! we were the ones who wanted to help and borrow his power." "What? You lot call yourselves knights of Merlot Mark? By siding with the shield bastard?" "You know...... this is quite the disgrace scene, if you have a problem with our behaviour just get rid of us right?"

The volunteers protected my by frankly expressing their opinions. According to the stories I head, the upper echelon of the knights had a meeting after they found out that the volunteers wanted to help a Hero.

"I think that if these guys weren't here there would be much more damage."

the villagers who heard what I said also nod.

"The other heroes and their companions were brought to that building to rest after they were defeated by the formidable enemy who appeared during the wave."

Though they weren't asked to the villagers take care of the Heroes and their companions. Thanks to the prescribed medicine, they will have a complete recovery in a few days. Due to the fast recovery they regained consciousness today.

"Hurry up carry out Hero-sama and their companions, send them to the Treatment Institute Immediately!" "Hey...... They are going to be fine. Priority goes to the villagers and others who are severely injured." "The Heroes are our top Priority, For this world and our country."

What an arrogant answer...... Well, it seems their problem is that I prioritized the treatment of villagers.

"Whatever. Go away, I'm busy." "Wait, Shield"

The knight leader calls for my to stop, so I turn around and ask for the circumstances.

"What is it this time......" "You need to give a report, so come to the castle." "No thanks, that place stinks." "I'm telling you to come!"

Do you have the authority? Even though this is meaningless why does it still have to be prioritized. The volunteers lower their heads and look down, but I just ignore it and turn around.

"Hero of the Shield-sama I beg you, please go......"

......Oh, this guy obeyed my instructions and acted properly. I cannot coldly refuse,though it is also necessary to go collect my metal wagon from the old man.

"Hah......"

I look back while scratching my head.

"Fine. I'll go. But I'll only meet this guy once." "Thank you very much!"

I nodded to the volunteer who expressed his thanks. This, we went straight to the castle.

Next day. We arrive at the castle town and enter the castle.

"The shield's companions have to wait in another room." "Why am I the only one that goes?"

Why is this guy acting so overbearing?

"Hey, can I leave yet?"

This is going to be a giant waste of time.

"Please don't go. There are various things that you must hear." "I would have liked to talk about them before coming here."

The process of how the other heroes got smashed and how we defeated the enemy was already explained. It seems one of the volunteers confirmed what I said since he happened to see it. In any case, if the trash king tries to force something on me I'll just run away. Due to Raphtalia and Firo I will not be easily caught.

"Quiet! You are in the King's presence!"

I was guided to the throne and the trash king greeted me with a grim expression. It seems he already heard the story. He seems to be irritated.

"Although it is regrettable, thanks to the shield the wave was defeated. Though I don't believe it." "Is that any way to thank a person?" "Insolence!......Well, it's fine. I only want to ask one thing. Though I'm sure you're lying." "......What do you want"

It is a little annoying that he believes everything I say to be false.

"Shield, how did you outwit the other heroes and steal their strength? You have an obligation to speak, though I don't believe it. Now speak. Though I know you're lying."

......So it's about that. The trash king is concerned that the other heroes are weaker than me. Hah. I am so disgusted that I can't even talk. Honestly, Glass beat the other heroes up. Even though the Heroes outnumbered her they still lost. Did I only win due to compatibility and the fact that the other party was worn out? Or were the other heroes weak and not even exhaust her. I should look around that vicinity when I'm free. But, what to do here. Alright. I showed a radiant smile to the trash and gave him a thumbs down. "Prostrate yourself if you want to find out." "What?"

All that's on the trash king's face is a dumbfounded expression. that's a very interesting face. I want a picture.

"Did you not hear me? It seems trash has poor hearing. I told you to rub your head on the ground if you want to know." "Yo-Yo-Yo" "What's wrong? You sound like a screeching monkey. Oh I see, the trash king of this country is indeed lower than a monkey. Though I would rather be talking to a monkey."

The trash king's face is instantly dyed-red, and stares at me like I'm responsible for the murder of his parents. Ah, this feels pretty good.

"You bastard----------------------!"

The cry of the trash king echoes throughout the castle.

Enemy from the wave in front, and trash king in the back. But, I do not intend to be defeated by either.

And in this way I parted with the trash king.

Chapter 55

Departure

"I demand Decapitatiooooooooooon!"

As expected of trash. My answer is equivalent to your crown.

"Opps, it looks like you think your guillotine can hurt me"

With a clang, the knights of the trash take out their swords and surround me.

"Did you guys forget during the wave the I am the one who defeated the opponent those other heroes got trashed by?"

I equip my shield and answer. As for the knights, none of them dare to move. An appearance befitting a hero. These are people that know of what happened during the wave, so they do not attack. Even if it was a half bluff.

"What are you doing! kill this impudent bastard already!" "Hey......"

I glare at the trash king and repeat.

"Do you not understand? The present me can enter the castle from the entrance, murder you, and walk out just like that......" "Grrr......"

At last, this trash seems to finally know his position. His face is mortified.

"Do you believe I can actually do it?"

I learnt that in this world threats and bluffs during negotiations are necessary. Therefore, against this trash I'll use it to the maximum.

"If you're going to request a hero to do it, do you think they can win against me?" "Grrrrr......."

The trash is grinding his teeth with frustration.

"Being able to say such a thing--" "If you harm my subordinates? I'll kill you."

Before I lose the possibility I will take the first move. Since I have no clarification, I don't know whether or not the Iron Maiden skill can kill this trash. But, I'm quite sure it will work. If I also include the flames from the Self-Curse Burning. The trash's expression turns blue when he understands his position.

"Do not bother me trash. I will co-operate during a wave, but once it is over do not disturb me."

This is my only threat but I cannot reveal my trump card easily. I'd prefer that to be my last resort. Even if I kill him here nothing will be solved. This trash's successor will just appear and put me on the wanted list. Even if I fight the other Heroes it is doubtful that I can win. Besides, if all three of them team up on me I will lose.

"See ya"

I turn my heal and walk out of the throne room.

"Unforgivable! I won't forgive you Shieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeld!"

The trash's scream resounds throughout the throne room.

"That's my lineeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

I pointed at the trash before leaving. After leaving the throne room I pss by a noble woman-like person. Concealing her lips with a fan and an expensive looking dress. The face is too well concealed to be able to tell her age. Perhaps late 20s......? Her hair is purple......Quite a rare colour......

"thank you for participating degojaru

Was whispered to me as we passed each other. Gojaru? Dangerous, I almost turned around. Hm? A girl just like Raphtalia when she was small and Firo's humanoid form is behind the woman. Her hair colour is bluish. Also something you don't see much. She is dressed well, is she her child? However, they don't really resemble each other...... Though she her looks rivals that of Firo's human form. Is this little girl also a bird? Hm...... I cannot remember who she looks like. Oh well, that person is probably unpleasant. Remembering is just a waste of time.

So, at that time, we just crossed paths unintentionally. I had no idea this kid would become an important figure in a future uproar.

By the way, Raphtalia and Firo were waiting for me in another room. And the fact that they predicted I would cause trouble and was even ready for escape was icing on the cake. Anyway, we left there in a hurry.

The next day. I show up at the equipment store, to check on the requested carriage.

"Oh it's the lad. The carriage you asked for is done." "Pretty quick. However old man, can you make anything as long as it's metal based?" "I had my acquaintance help out, so I didn't make all of it."

Is this common for metal workers?

"Well, he's just one of those guys that can do anything as long as you have money." "Lad, don't be sad just because you found out I can't do everything. I'm not versatile like you." "I'm not omnipotent either......"

What does the old man think of me?

"Well it's parked in the back." "Ah then let's check it out. By the way, Raphtalia-"

Raphtalia grasps my hand before I finish.

"What's wrong?" "This sword is still fine. Let's conserve money for now." "Well..... If Raphtalia says so......

Though Firo is now our main attacker. It shouldn't be necessary for Raphtalia to act unless it's urgent, the same goes for me. This sounds bad, but there may be weapons somewhere else that are better than the ones in the old man's shop. We went around the equipment store to check out the metal wagon. The hood is metallic, and the whole carriage feels like an enlarged Christmas ornament that my parents bought.

"Wow~......"

Firo's eyes are shining with unprecedented brightness. She heads towards the front and grabs the handle.

"Firo is going to pull this right!?" "Yeah" "Yaay~!"

Firo is quite happy, both her feet and wings are flapping, as if wanting to bolt off at any moment. She has such a face.

"For the time being let's carry in your luggage." "Okay" "Okay~!"

We transfer the baggage from our carriage that we used in between waves to the new one. It took quite some time to carry the materials, merchandise, and tools.

"How is it lad?"

The old man from shows up when he has free time. And I answer with a thumbs up.

"yeah, it's as great as I expected." "I see, but it seems to be very heavy, will the little missy be fine......?" "Yup!" "This fellow here ran around the country with a carriage that had 3 carts attached." "That's amazing" "Rather, it's lighter than I expected so I'm a little disappointed." "You know, stop being so stubborn!"

What are the standards for Philo Rial anyway? Why do they feel great when they pull carriages?

"Hahaha, do your best. So what'll you do from now on?" "What will I do?" "I heard about the commotion at the castle."

The old man says to me with a somewhat troubled face.

"That sure travelled quick" "Rumours keep the town lively." "Oh well. I did is so that trash would understand his position." "......Though it's only a matter of time before you get falsely accused again." "That's what I expected." "If possible I don't want to know." "I believe I asked this some time ago...... Are you going to go to Silt Welt or ShirudoFuriden to Class up? (Tl note: Still need some help for names of countries. シルトヴェルト (Silt Welt) シルドフリーデン (Shirudo Furiden)

A few things come to mind when, and what I should have done when threatening trash is also get permission to use the Hourglass of the Dragon's era. But if the class up is controlled by the trash I will also fear for Raphtalia and Firo. I would rather not have that unnecessary anxiety haunting me. It would be best to get a free pass for Class up in any of these two countries.

"Well, I expected you to go to be forced to leave this country someday." "What?"

It seems the old man is nodding his head as if agreeing with himself. What does he mean?

"I would recommend you going to ShiruFuriden. Silt Welt is in turmoil......" "Is that so?" "Yeah, humans there are treated just like the demi-humans in this country."

No wonder...... It would be unsuitable for me who is a human.

"But--" "Thanks for the help. I'll be going to ShirudoFuriden"

We finished loading and got into the carriage.

"Well then, I expect you to visit a great number of shops." "Thanks, Oh right. Do you know of any weapons that have a soul attribute, or can damage ghosts?" "I see, so you've gotten to the point where you need to prepare for such enemies." "I can make something cheaply from certain materials." "I cannot match you any more. If possible don't come back for a while. I'll tell you where you can get materials." "I understand. Thanks for all the help. Then, let's go." "Okay~" "See ya. old man." "Later"

Firo pulls the rattling carriage. Our present goal is a Class up. It seems to be quite far into the future. With Firo's running speed we should arrive in two weeks.

"Thats!"

I hear a loud voice outside. Before leaving the castle town a something hits the metal carriage.

"I found you!" "......What?"

After making Firo stop, a little girl looks into the carriage and points at me. Behind the girl is a knight-like guy. These guys seems to have followed us for a while.

"You did something terrible to father!" "Hmm?"

What? The girl with blue hair that I am not familiar with gets closer.

"What's with you." "Don't play dumb! I know that you can't hide it! You are an accomplished villain! The atrocious Hero of the Shield!"

This goddamn noisy kid. Is she some aristocrat? That reminds me, I sold some cheap accessory to a noble before. Though it wasn't just once or twice. I can't remember how many times any more.

"I see, your father just can't tell quality. I am just smarter." "What did you say!?"

But, Hero of the Shield = Evil person..... That's quite unpleasant. Oh well, it's too late now.

"Tell you father. To polish his aesthetic sense next time." "Boo,Boo...... I'll never admit it, mother is wrong, the Hero of the Shield is a bad person! I'll punish you!"

The subordinate knights step forward according to the girl's order.

"Hm. can you keep them company Firo?" "what~?" "Just go." "Okay" "Ah......"

Firo stares at the goddamn kid and seems preoccupied.

"Holy Bird?" "Eh?"

Firo inclines her neck and looks at the goddamn kid puzzled.

"Hurry up and go!" "Okay~"

Firo nods, and the carriage suddenly takes off.

"AH Wait---------------! Don'r run awaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!"

The voice of the goddamn kid fades into the distance. The castle town sucks as expected. Other than coming for shopping I would rather stay away.

Chapter 56

Shield Demon

"Let's continue peddling." "I guess. Travelling expenses and the cost of weapons can get pretty expensive." "I think so too." "Though our food costs for a certain bird is the highest."

The Mileage to Food cost ratio on our bird is not negligible, but our horsepower is amazing. Feeding a demon is ridiculous, the sheer quantity required is impossible to sustain. So before all my money is consumed I need to earn more. We should be fine selling things in the villages and towns we stay at. While thinking so our treat begins. but......

"I finally caught up!"

It is now evening. The goddamn kid from the castle town caught up with us. While peddling I decided on an inn.

"What a persistent brat." "We haven't finished talking yet!" "Whatever. It's about your father. So what?" "So what!? You suck!"

The goddamn kid's face instantly turns red. Quite an emotional kid. It's annoying and hysteric.

"My father is angry at the shield." "I see, that's great." "No it's not!"

This annoying brat. After deciding on a place to stay the hotel charges are paid. I want to ignore her, but she is very persistent. I wonder how far she intends to chase. I want to ask and make sure.

"What's wrong?"

Firo got bored of playing nearby and came back.By the way, even if a party member beats a demon far away I still get a little experience. Sometimes all those minuscule experience gains block my view while peddling. Though Firo brings me materials under the pretence of souvenirs.

"Ah......"

The goddamn kid stops and watches Firo again.

"Are you the Philo Rial that pulled the carriage?" "Yeah, you understand." "You are different from all the Philo Rial that I know of. It's my first time seeing one that looks like a child."

To be fair, only a few people have actually seen a Philo Rial Queen. We might be the only ones in the country.

"Master, did you need anything?" "We are talking!" "Start from the beginning."

Firo has been talking with her since they met.

"Shouldn't you be chirping?" "Nope. Firo can speak words~" "Wow......Awesome!" "Ehehe I'm amazing."

The goddamn kid approaches Firo and touches her. Firo doesn't seem to mind. Oh their mental ages are probably similar. ......I can use this.

"If Firo agrees to it she can take her Philo Rial form and you two can go out and play together." "Really!?" "Yeah, go play until you're finished and then return." "Yay~!"

The goddamn kid pats Firo with a smile.

"Master. What about Firo?" "Play with the child. I order you not to injure her." "Yay~!"

Firo saddles the little shit on her back. Her expression instantly brightens.

"Yaay! We're so high!" "Let's go play!" "Ok!"

They happily run off together. The knights chase after them with a perplexed expression.

"It's finally quite again." "Naofumi-sama, your expression right now is very evil." "There's no problems. That goddamn brat is probably going to forget any grudges she has after this." "Goddamn brat...... Naofumi-sama do you dislike kids?" "Not particularly. If I disliked them I would have abandoned you and Firo a long time ago. "Well, that's true."

I hate her because she is accusing me. I'd like to avoid any falling sparks if possible.

"When we enter the neighbouring country they should stop."

If she's an animal enthusiast and will just play with Firo it'll be fine.

"......I guess."

That day, Firo did not come back until very late. It seems they were very exited about having new friends and played a lot, well it's good that they are happy about it. By the way the name of that goddamn kid is Mel-chan.

Next morning. After eating a light breakfast we leave the inn quickly. On the Road.

"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaait!"

I crease my brows and face palm. I knew this was going to happen, but to think she would be this quick. I already forgot about the fellow when we departed this morning.

"Ah, it's Mel-Chan"

Since Firo stopped I got off the carriage to welcome the goddamn kid.

"You should be glad Firo-chan I won't have the Hero of the Shield apologize if we can play!" "I'm sorry. Are we done?" "Don't apologize to me, do it to father!"

So annoying. I can't deal with her.

"If you don't apologize everyone won't be forgiven."

So she says, as the knight behind her pulls out a sword. You want to fight? Against a Hero? Huh? The guy behind the goddamn brat is pointing a crystal ball at me. What's that? Suddenly I notice.

This guy......He's not looking at me.

I feel a chill run up my spine. This foreboding feeling ,and atmosphere reminds me of when I was deceived by that bitch. This atmosphere that I encountered the past few months of trying to plunge another into despair.

I charge the Knight at once. And my premonition becomes reality. The knight aims his sword at the goddamn kid.

"Kyaaaaaaaaaaaa!?" "Air Strike Shield!"

The goddamn brats starts to scream. I immediately cast Air Strike Shield to intercept.

"......What the hell are you doing!"

I stand in front of the goddamn kid and glare at the enemy.

"You Shield! how dare you hold a princess hostage!" "Huh?"

Princess? Regardless of who you are looking after, isn't it weird to call them princess? The goddamn kid seems to know what's going on and her face turns blue.

"The shield is evil! I've known since the beginning."

The enemies are attacking us while saying so. I protect the goddamn kid by pulling her close. Gakin, the clashing of metal resounds in the area.

"Damn......"

The enemy starts to cast magic that rains fire. Can't be helped. I'll cover the goddamn kid with my mantle to protect her from magic.

"You......Demon of the Shield!" "Firo, Raphtalia!" "Okay!" "Okay~!"

As per my instructions. Raphtalia and Firo charges the enemy. Just as we counter attack the enemy retreats on horseback.

"Fools."

Firo's leg power overwhelms horses. One of them is instanly blown off.

"Guaaaaaaaaaaa!" "Ah, it's the devil!"

Additionally, we pursue the enemy and continue attacking, one , two, some were captured but a few of them managed to get away.

"what the hell is wrong with these guys."

Were they not the goddamn brat's guards? A princess huh. I have no choice but to perform a few interrogations here. I ask the enemies who are bound by rope.

"Now then, you bastards, tell me you are trying to kill a child. Only the reason." "As If I have anything to say to a devil" "Hooh......"

Devil, huh. It's been a while since I've been straight up called that. Regardless of who it's always Hero of the Shield.

"You. Do you understand what's happening to you?"

I give instructions to Firo.

"Food?"

The enemy's face turns blue.

"I will sacrifice myself for god...... God will lead me to heaven."

......Religion. Against these kinds of fanatics threats will not work.

"Hey brat, you have any ideas?"

The goddamn brat shakes her head in fear.

"Say, what religion do you believe in? It'll probably be to some stupid god anyway." "The three Heroes Church! You damn Devil! You dare mock God?"

As I thought. These fools can't stand it when their religion is mocked. Now, if I can skilfully manipulate him with insults I may be able to get some information.

"The religion of this country."

Raphtalia mutters alone.

"Do you know about it?" "This country mostly believes in the teachings of the Three Heroes. I did not believe since my parents were from a different religion." "......Then this guy is just using religion as a tool for personal gains." "Ah, Yeah"

I find a Rosary-like Accessory on the people who Raphtalia tied up.

"I'm going to place this on the ground." "Hah......"

What a strange symbol. Three weapons pile on top of each other. Sword, Spear, and Bow? Quite an unpleasant line up of weapons.

"Now, I will step on this tool if you guys don't speak obediently." "St-Stooooooop!"

The enemy's cry stops me. That was quite early...... Is this lump of metal so important? Rather than anything special, it just reminds me of a fashion accessory, it doesn't even have any special effects. Though it might just be the case for me since people in my world start wars for religion.

"Look at this."

I repeatedly stomp on the strange symbol with my foot.

"You devil of the shield! God will never forgive such acts!" "I know, now tell me quickly why you're trying to kill her. Or is this the degree of your faith? Huh?" "Damn......" "To think there would be a devil stepping on god's symbol right in front of you. Shouldn't god be on your side?"

It's the opposite of the loyalty test. Since this guy recognizes me as the devil, he will not stand by as I perform barbaric acts.

"If you spit it out I'll stop." "I'm not going to listen to anything a d-devil has to say." "ah I see."

I stomp on the symbol hard enough that it sinks into the ground.

"You bastaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaard!"

Hmm...... I wonder what happened. Did he finally realise his position?

"Hey brat, who is this guy anyway?" "Aau......"

The goddamn brat still seems to be recovering from the fear of almost being killed.

"Mel-chan. Master and Firo is here so you'll be alright." "......Firo-chan"

The goddamn kid collects herself, gives me a look and mutters.

"Uhm. These people are my father's knights." "That reminds me, who is your father?" "Father?" "Yeah, which noble family are you from?" "Uhm"

Not nobility? Then what is it? She looks considerably well-bred, is she the daughter of a famous merchant? Daughter of the accessory merchant? Though there should be no reason for malice if that's the case. ......From this guy's speech and behaviour her dad should be quite powerful and respected. I still think she's some noble's daughter.

"Father is the king of this country." "......What?" "Holt Clay = Merlot Mark the 32nd. I am Melty = Merlot Mark......This country's princess." (Tl note: Holt Clay...... as expected of the trash. If anyone has a better name let me know.オルトクレイ＝メルロマルク３２世。私はメルティ＝メルロマルク……この国の第二王女)

Thus, I somehow became embroiled in a ridiculous conspiracy.

Chapter 57

Church of Three Heroes

"Alright, let's throw this guy away and leave the country."

I declare immediately after finding out that this goddamn brat is the second princess of Merlot Mark, Melty.

"Please wait. Are you just going to abandon a child who is being targeted?" "She's the daughter of trash. I'm also going to be convicted regardless." "But I think the circumstances are quite strange."

Hm, Raphtalia's opinion does make sense. The second princess who was almost murdered is shaking again, while Firo is babysitting her. If she really is the second princess, there should be no reason for the knights of this country to kill her. Is this just a big conspiracy, or factional strife? Why would they want the princess dead? I am completely ignorant about the circumstances of this country's internal affairs.

"Mel-chan. Why were you almost killed?" "......I don't know. I just came to complain to the Hero of the Shield because he hurt father." "You came alone?" "No. The imperial guardsmen knights wanted to come no matter what."

It seems the second princess is merely a puppet. Even if I interrogate her it would be impossible to get any information.

"Firo will certainly help you!" "Hey, don't just go making promises without my permission!' "Master. Firo wants to help Mel-chan" "No." "I want to help! I want to help! I want to help!" "Argg, so annoying!"

Shit, I have a bad feeling about this. What's going to happen. The knight who was watching begins to laugh.

"Finally you understand your position as a devil." "Shut up. I'm done with you." "You can't escape. I'll be waiting here until the mission succeeds." "......What do you mean?" "Our goal is to kill the second princess and pin the blame on you, but even though the first condition can not be fulfilled it is fine. Your head will be worth a lot of money from now on."

That trash, to think he would do something like this. You're willing to sacrifice your daughter to find a just cause for killing me!?

"Even if you escape abroad, the royal family's assassins will pursue you!" ".....Wait, why is it necessary to kill the second princess in front of me?"

If you wanted to pin a false charge on me all you needed is the Bitch's testimony. Even if the second princess is murdered somewhere else, they just need to claim that I did it. Why aren't they doing? Suddenly, I recall that other knight's crystal ball. Due to him fleeing first, he managed to escape. If that was something that took photographs.

"Devil of the Shield, the fact that you participated in murdering princess Melty has been spread to the other countries. You will no longer be able to take refuge there."

No wonder. In this country, they cannot cross the borders to search for me. If I manage escape abroad then it will show that this country is weak. As for the other countries,they will help the Hero of the Shield to try gaining me as an ally. However, that will be impossible now. There is a crystal ball that shows the moment when the Hero of the Shield might have murdered the second princess. That is plenty of evidence. Once they show that to foreign countries I won't be able to seek refuge.

Wow...... I kind of respect how thorough they are. That leaves me with 3 choices.

Choice 1 I ditch the second princess. The knight of the trash that came to kill the second princess will fulfil his duty and give the country a just cause to hunt me. I live as a wanted man with a bounty on my head. It spreads to another country and the time that I stay as a wanted man becomes even longer. It will be the most dangerous when the wave comes. I will most likely be caught.

Choice 2 I take the second princess to the trash and explain the circumstances. The second princess will keep her life, but this is trash we are talking about. The crime of kidnapping will not be cleared. In other words I can save the life of the second princess, but my innocence will not be proven.

Choice 3 We go kill trash in an outrage. The crime will be complete which will lead to the 3 heroes, the church, and a massive amount of knights hunting me down. The possibility of failure is too high.

"No matter the choice my innocence will not be proven-! That trash king, to murder his own daughter to kill me!"

Very unpleasant! Seriously why is everyone blood related to the king so annoying,

"Hahaha! It's over for the Devil of the shield. You will perish before the Church Three Heroes!" "Shut up!"

I tell the knights to shut up while ordering Firo out of spite. You are allowed to kill them, but it's meaningless since a lot of them already escaped. But, if my false charges are dropped, they will ask about the homicide.

"Still, that Church of Three Heroes......"

Church of Three Heroes Three, Heroes, Church. Now that I think about it, aren't these things all connected? The symbol contains the holy weapons of those three. But isn't it strange? Sword, Spear, Bow, and Shield. According to legends these 4 are the only ones. But the Knights view me as the devil, and the Church of Three Heroes are also hostile.

......Is that it?

Upon arrival in this world, none of the adventurers wanted to become my companion. Naturally, the only adventurers they prepare are ones trusted by the country. It seems the religion known as the Church of Three Heroes is brought up a lot around the city. Since the Church of Three Heroes calls me the devil of the shield, I am supposed to be an absolute evil within the country. Who would willingly become the devil of the shield's companion? Were they not even aware of my situation, or were they trying to create a situation where I can be nothing but evil? ......That seems to be the case. In this country just saying Hero of the Shield will earn you a dirty look.

The majority of knights are blind believers, of course the royal family is no exception. Thinking back with this information, I can't help but be a little amused at the rape accusations placed on me. Since I am treated as a religious enemy, I was ignored intentionally and branded as a criminal without evidence. If I do anything bad the citizens will just say "Because he's the devil of the shield" That sister's hostility towards me at the Hourglass of the Dragon's era proves it.

I can somewhat understand the trash king's thoughts. If he wants to keep his standing as the king, he will not be able to treat the devil of the shield the same as the three heroes.

Currently, the reputation of the Hero of the Shield has improved within the country. Since I have been going around various places masquerading as the Saint of the Holy bird and saving people. Excluding the castle town, recently even as the Hero of the Shield, there has been no more hostility aimed towards me. The problem is related to the prestige of the church. I have no doubt they will also add threatening the church of three heroes to my list of crimes.

Is that why they played the trump card that is the second princess?

But, in the end this is all merely speculation. No matter what I do it will be impossible to get rid of the false accusations.

"Fa-father won't do something like this!

Declares the second princess.

"Maybe......" "Finish your sentence." "Mother said that Father's forte is in warfare but, recently he also has quite a short fuse." "Mother huh......"

Speaking of which, I still have not met the wife of trash. Good at war huh......That's certainly one hell of an enemy I've made. So far nothing good has happened to me.

"Mother always wins when they play intellectual games." "Aren't you just calling her cunning?"

Whenever I talked to him all I felt was the he was a fool. Not sure how smart this mother will be.

"Father cherishes me so he won't do something like this." "Then why did such a thing happen?" "Uh......"

The second princess seems to cry at an moment.

"Master is awful~" "That's right. To make such a small child cry." "She is the same age as you."

Did Raphtalia forget she was the same size about two months ago? Or is it because she has a big sister relationship with Firo. Well, that trash king wasn't exactly a good person; However, he does not seem like a criminal. I think that the trash treasures his relatives. There is also the possibility that this situation was entirely cooked up by the fanatics that are trying to label me as a devil at all costs. Besides, is the current royalty even stable? This might be a little forced, but what if there are two factions: one supporting that bitch and one for the second princess?

"What about your sister?"

The successor would want to nip a bad bud early. That bitch would pull off such a plan.

"wouldn't it be something like, I am the next queen. I need to prevent my younger sister from somehow taking the seat?" "If it's elder sister......maybe." "Well I'm not denying that possibility." "Since the old days mother would tell me not to imitate my sister in entrapping people to get whatever she wanted."

Is this the bitch's plan? I mean, even her own relatives are wary of her.

"Mother said that Father does not understand." "Now that I think about it, you've been saying mother a since a while ago but, who is she?" "Mother is the queen of this country. All year round she is in charge of diplomacy. I am always with mother." "So what does that have to do with us?" "Mother will occasionally return visit father." "Uhh......So about her diplomacy." "Because I do not want war I try my best everyday. Because of the wave the world is in danger, since I am the queen It is my duty to protect my country."

From what I hear she seems to be superior to the trash. She might not patronize me. Though a dangerous fellow may come after me to protect trash. Hmm? Thinking back seriously, did I not pass by this fellow in the castle after I parted from trash?

"The day before yesterday, were you with your mother? Is it that person with the purple hair?" "That is my mother's body double." "Body double huh...... Was there really such a feeling?"

Her outstanding purple hair left an impression.

"Yup. That's her disguise, and she talks funny." "Wow"

Doesn't matter.

"She is greater than father."

The second princess just said something outrageous.

"......What did you say?" "She is greater than father." "What?" "Naofumi-sama, in Merlot Mark the queen has the power. This country's royal family is of the female line."

Raphtalia supplemented as if it was natural. Then is that it? That trash is a son-in-law!

"Naofumi-sama why are you laughing?" "This is too funny, that trash is just a son-in-law taken into the family? Ahahahahaha!" "Master you seem to be having fun~" "Do not speak ill of father!" "Isn't it fine? He deserted you." "I wasn't thrown away! Uwaaaan"

Oh, the second princess has begun hitting me while crying. What a healing scene. I see an annoying fellow crying.

"You're the worst, making a child cry and then laughing." "I know."

Rapthalia got mad as expected.

"So is there any way we can clear the suspicions and save her life......?"

In the first place why should I defend relatives of the trash and bitch? Still, I cannot murder her. Though this fellow's blood is bad I would rather not dirty myself with it.

Sigh......

However, I do sympathize a bit with her situation. Being betrayed by blood relatives whom you believe in, the second princess has tasted the bottom of despair. All right. There must be some method.

"Do you know where you mother the queen is?"

This is the first method. If trash is of no use, I'll meet and talk with the queen. Since she has more power than trash, our problem should be solved. In this scenario, the second princess's survival has become a necessary condition. We will be heavily depending on whether she lives or dies. It also seems that from our talks her mother is quite intelligent. Though I still have my doubts considering how stupid trash is.

"......I don't know."

The second princess shakes her head.

"I see."

There is no reason to flee to another country aimlessly in this situation. I recall my talk with the old man of the equipment store. If I'm not mistaken, the country of Demi-humans Silt Welt is one that dominates humans. Merlot Mark's influence will be very low there right? The possibility is quite high that the queen will find out and come to negotiate when she finds out that the second princess leaves Merlot Mark. Of course, it would be very dangerous for us humans, but we have Raphtalia who is a demi-human. It might also be good if we disguise ourselves.

"Alright, let's run away to Silt Welt for the time being. We might be able to overcome this situation there." "That's the country of Demi-humans..... I see, It could work."

Raphtalia seems to understand.

"I'll leave the negotiations to enter the Demi-human country to you." "Okay!" "Now second princess, I will have you come with us. Rest assured, I will protect you by all means. If you do not wish to die then follow me." "......okay"

The second princess unwillingly joins our carriage.

I do not dislike children if they understand. But in this case.It would be better tell the truth about this trash king and bitch princess who are no better than filth to this world. Since the situation demands it our destinies have become intertwined, if either of us die it's over. The second princess is also still a child. If we teach her about what's correct starting from the beginning she might be able to understand.

"Then we'll be together from now on Mel-chan." "Yup......I'll be in your care Firo-chan."

Firo is in a good mood now that she found out she'll have a new friend to journey together with.

The second princess will be the key that leads us to victory. If we lose her we are done. I covered the knights who fainted in the forest and changed our direction to Silt Welt while staying cautious.

Chapter 58

Wanted.

"Umuu......"

I am observing the situation behind a bush. Its been several hours since we picked up the second princess. Since there is a village nearby we must be cautious. Nearby is the village that was plagued by the dragon corpse a while ago. It seems what the knight said was true.

"Devil of the shield Iwatani Naofumi slaughtered imperial guard knights and kidnapped the second princess while escaping. Wanted dead or alive. The prize-"

On the notice board within the village, there piece of paper that has quite a large amount of price money declared on it by the soldiers of the castle. Is this seriously only a few hours after? They seemed too prepared for this. I knew this was a set up since the beginning. For some reason they also assumed I killed off those knights that I caught.

I heard it. If you strap a bomb on yourself and charge you will go to heaven. These guys are putting similar insane thoughts to practice.

"The Imperial guardsmen knights have memorized an image of the criminal! The Imperial guardsmen knight who brought the crystal ball to the castle also died after duty was completed."

Furthermore. It seems that a hologram of me is being projected by the crystal ball. My face was twisted with wickedness and,I am strangling the second princess by her neck, which also appears to be bleeding. ......Is that amount of fabrication even possible? Should I make a habit of avoiding crystal balls at all costs in the future? Though she looks pretty healthy despite being on the verge of death......

When I look closely at the second princess's face, despite the fact that she is being strangled, her expression is more shocked than painful. By the way, the country of Silt Welt is located south east of Shirudo Furiden which is north east of our current location. It seems that it's for us necessary to cross two countries. That is considerably further than before. We will somehow have to advance without being found.

"If you see the devil that has a strange bird pulling his carriage. Contact the Country immediately."

The crystal ball then shows Firo's image, and her expression is that of a bird of prey spitting poison from the mouth. That's good. I can use poison since they put that in the forgery. This is going to be a problem though, since Firo is our main means of transportation.

We might have to leave Firo somewhere.

"So, Firo you understand right?" "Noo~!"

As I finished scouting the village, I went to Firo and to let her know. If we continue letting Firo pull the carriage to refuge she will attract a lot of attention. If it comes down to it Firo could just abandon the carriage and run off with her superior speed. They would have a hard time catching her but we would lose everything. So, I have to explain the situation.

"We can't help it. Because you stand out."

In the sense that she's an unusual demon. She is the reason I am known as the saint of the holy bird after all.

"Can't Firo just change into a different form before anything happens? Firo will work hard!" "How are you-"

Firo's body shines and starts transforming. She will probably pull the carriage in her human form anyway. Her neck and feet started extending.

"Gueeee!"

Firo has transformed into a normal Philo Rial that resembles an ostrich. Well, the size is considerably bigger than average I guess.

"Can you maintain this figure?" "Gueee!"

She nods.

"Can you only chirp in that form?" "Guee!" "I see."

I guess we will be fine if she can keep this appearance.

"Firo-chan is amazing!"

The second princess's eyes sparkles as she begins playing with Firo.

"Gueeee"

This high pitched screeching is better than her toxic mouth anyway.

"When you're in that form be quiet." "Guee!"

My head was gripped by her foot. Naturally since Raphtalia and Firo rarely attack me they forget that it violates the slave mark. The demon crest appears on her chest and she rolls over in pain.

"Gueee!?" "Firo-chan!?" "Seriously, what is it you don't like?" "Don't use violence on Firo-chan!" "I didn't. The demon crest only activated because she attacked me."

Though she is still sort of cute in this form, although her communication is lacking. But like this I don't know what Firo is saying. It seems that this could be from my inner thoughts of "it would be nice if I had a pet that will unconditionally listen to me and not be noisy." Firo returns to her human forms and starts whining like a child.

"It's painful!" "You asked for it. Even you understand. Demons can't attack their masters." "Ueh......"

The second princess is strangely worried about Firo. Is it because they are friends?

"For the time being, I'm assuming you are fine with disguising ourselves."

Up until now we were fine staying hidden as a saint, so it should work out somehow.

"Raphtalia...... can you make yourself look a little shabby, and wear a hat?"

So like this, the princess and I hid ourselves within the carriage while the transformed Firo and disguised Raphtalia took care of passing the village.

"Ah......"

Raphtalia meets the villager's eyes.

"......" "......"

We pass silently.

"......" "......"

The metal carriage passes the village as the soldiers watch.

"Wait."

We were halted. I begin preparing for being found out, we should be able to deal with the people in this village.

"O-okay. What's wrong?" "The other side of your carriage has a wing mark. It resembles the one on that devil bird......" "N-no. I'm just a merchant. "Hou......May I confirm what is inside?"

This is dangerous. The soldier puts hand on the door of the carriage. What to do. I may be fine since I am wearing common clothing and my shield is in the form of a book, but the princess will be recognized immediately.

"Ah!"

The villager who made eye contact with Raphtalia suddenly spoke.

"What's wrong!?"

The soldier turns around to face the villager.

"I heard that someone spotted the demon of the shield a while ago over there." "Really!?"

The villager nods his head. The soldier starts running towards the direction indicated by the villager.

"Over here."

The villager knocks on the carriage.

"Hurry, before it's too late."

It seems he's going to provide a hiding place for us. What to do...... the deceived soldier will come back soon and that will be disastrous.

"Please go. I'll stall them here."

Raphtalia senses my hesitation and decides for me.

"But-" "I planned to do this since the beginning."

Is that so? The second princess and I get off the carriage when we arrive at the house, I cover her with a mantle as the villager guides us.

"There is nothing." "Huh? Was I wrong?" "No, you reported as ordered and even gave details, he just got away." "I see"

The villager finishes deceiving the solder and he checks the carriage.

"Hmmm......there are only miscellaneous goods. Is this medicine?" "Yeah, an adventurer asked me to transport it. hahaha"

While in disguise Raphtalia answers with a wry smile.

"I see, well sorry I bothered you." "No it's fine."

The soldier leaves to patrol somewhere else. The villager points Raphtalia in the direction of the inn and she responds obediently.

"Hmm......"

We were peeping from the window of the private house. I was very nervous. That was pretty dangerous. If that villager choose not to help us there would have been an uproar.

"Saint-sama are you all right?" "Ah yea......somehow." "After saint-sama saved the village we noticed you were actually the Hero of the shield-sama." "And you guys don't condemn me?" "Condemn!? No way. The saint saved the people of this village. There is no way we will repay kindness with enmity." "......Are we safe?"

The second princess anxiously asks.

"You're going to side with the devil?" "We received various things from the Three Heroes church. But, the devil of the shield kindly saved us from the disaster that the god of the sword caused."

The fight here was harsh. I also learned various things from this village. It seems that the village is still recovering from after-effects of the plague.

"Although you might be called a devil,under these circumstances we would be even worse than devils if we do not repay our favour."

The villager points at the second princess is about to ask.

"This is just a little conspiracy." "Well it's fine if the princess went willingly."

The princess nods at the villager's words.

"Currently there are those within the country aiming for my life. The Hero of the Shield-sama saved me......"

The villager nods in understanding at the princess's answer.

"I get it. Some of us might be ungrateful though.So you should quickly escape." "......I know." "There is a cart in the back that is fully loaded with straw. Please hid in it, and several villagers will carry you to your companion who is at the inn." "I am grateful."

Thanks to the villagers who carried the cart of hay and distracted the soldier, we rejoined Raphtalia.

"As I thought we are in considerable danger in this carriage. Let's ditch it for something else." "Gueee!?"

Transformed Firo informs me of her displeasure. Her neck is shaking back and forth.

"Gue! Gue!" "We can't help it! Do you want to be found and caught? The second princess, Mel-chan will be killed." "Gu......"

Firo reluctantly falls silent at the mention of the second princess's life being in danger. It seems she has become quite an important friend for her to care this much......

"You're great, Firo. You can let go of important things for your friend." "Gue?"

I pat her kindly. Even if I don't understand what she is saying, she choose correctly.

"After this is over we'll certainly take it back." "Gue!"

Absolutely. I understand.

"Sorry. Would you mind looking after the carriage here?" "......Sure."

The villager seems to understand the situation and accepts it.

"I will be very grateful." "You've already done enough for us." "I see. alright, second princess,come here. Change your clothes, we'll be discovered instantly with what you're wearing now." "O.....okay"

The second princess doesn't seem very happy about the idea of wearing cheap clothing but given the situation she has no choice. It seems that the apprentice's clothing from villager barely fits. It's probably due to the villager having no children. Compared to the second princess's usual clothing, now she looks like a shabby little villager. Albeit a well-bred one since blue hair is only asserted with noble born children. Well I can worry about that as we travel. There is no reason to discard her old clothes. It will be a little awkward to bring it around though.

"Fill the bags with miscellaneous goods."

I put the more valuable things inside the straw cart and cover it. Anything bulky was given to the villagers. We should be fine going for two weeks like this. This stuff will be useful for the revival of the village.

"Alright, let's go." "Okay"

We leave the village quietly and while the villagers see us off. Well, we were still seen by another villager. After this, our best bet would be to avoid towns and villages as much as possible. The wagon made a rumbling sound as we began to run north east. If possible I hope the village won't be punished for helping us.

Chapter 59

Firo's Secret

The crackling of the camp-fire was the only thing that could be heard while we sat around. There haven't been any enemies so far, but we cannot just take it easy. In the first place we are in disguise.From the first glance it would be hard to tell that I am the Hero of the Shield. But that's to be expected.

"Ahahahahahaha Firo-chan" "Ahahahahahaha"

The second princess and Firo are running around the clearing without a care in the world. Pleasant things in life include food, sleep, and a close friends. Since I participated many times in school events in a country school and excursions to seaside summer houses, I understand how they feel. Once I became a university student I also lodged at my friend's house.

But...... To think these two would be so chummy. It might be because ever since Firo was born she never had anyone around her age or size to communicate with, so it is understandable. No, the feeling I'm getting is what an owner feels for their domestic animals. This second princess is a little surprising though. I thought that this culture looked down on animals and such. It might also be how she is coping with this unexpectedly long journey that she had no say in.

"Don't be too loud! We may be found." "Okay~"

After replying they go right back to playing. Seriously, after Firo made a friend it's gotten very noisy.

"Mel-chan, Firo will show you a treasure." "Yay!"

After saying so Firo opens a bag that is concealed within the wagon, and shows the second princess it's contents. I wonder what's in it. I am a little worried. The treasure of that bird. Is she just collecting the stuff I throw away?

"Master wants to see too~?" "Ah, yeah."

I approached Firo and took a look inside. Oh, a piece of a broken sword. Also trash jewels which I threw away after failing to make accessories with. An empty bottle. Glass marbles.

"It's shiny and beautiful" "Yeah, it's beautiful."

The second princess is putting on quite a subtle mask. Well, it's just garbage. Is it because birds like shiny objects? I heard something like this before, it was an uproar caused by a crow stealing valuables. This might be related. Hmm?

"What's this?"

Since there was something strange mixed in the bag I took it out. A big brown...... furball? It has the shape of a ball, but it is very soft. It kind of stinks. I have a really bad feeling about this.

"That is...... something that came out of Firo's mouth."

It came out of the mouth...... of the bird. Is this comparable to a cat's hairball? In human terms it's barf. Bullet of the bird = Vomit. In other words the hard objects like bones and whatnot that Firo eats are dissolved into......this.

"It's finished!"

What is? I just realised I'm still holding onto the hairball. I threw it away.

"Ah Firo's treasure!" "That's not a treasure! That's waste! If I see another one of those in your bag I'm throwing it all away!" "Boo......"

Firo and the second princess seems to have a few subtle exchanges in front of me.

"Hey, Second princess." "Hm?" "When Firo changed into her human form you were not surprised." "Yup. Because I saw it yesterday." "I see."

So you already knew. Well that's good. Today's dinner is grilled skewers consisting of meat from the demons we encounter.

"Master is good at making food!" "How is this skewer so delicious!? It's just meat on a stick!"

The second princess eats anything without flinching. It seems my fears of her not eating barbaric cuisine is groundless. I was expecting her to take a while before she was able to eat this stuff. My expectations were betrayed. It seems the queen brought her up nicely.

"If it's with Naofumi-sama we can eat this everyday." "Yay~!" "I see, that's good."

Now then,for my spare time time. I'm getting quite used to camping out. Should I study the beginner class magic book and try to learn new magic? After a few minutes the second princess and Firo quiet down. They are probably tired and sleeping. Raphtalia is going to take a nap. I can't sleep soundly if Firo or the second princess is watching the fire. And I have to prepare for any night attacks.

"Hmmm......"

Despite it being beginner class, there are various kinds of magic. There is a ranged version of Fast Guard and Fast Heal. Though I haven't read the book completely some beginner class magic was learnt. I now have magic that will increase offensive ability and speed. I would like to learn the more difficult spells, but deciphering difficult concepts and grammar is hard. As the firewood burns, time passes. While mixing medicine I am unable to calm down. I haven't advanced much in poison compounding, but I can sort poisonous herbs and understand a few recipes. There is no time to look for materials though.

"N......"

Raphtalia woke up with an absent-minded look.

"Oh? Did I wake you?" "No......Do you want to change?" "If you're fine with it." "Okay."

Since Raphtalia is taking my place I decided to lay down.

"Umm, Naofumi-sama?" "What's up?" "About Firo and Princess Melty......"

Raphtalia points towards Firo's Philo Rial · Queen form with trembling fingers. The second princess's clothes are taken off and lying around Firo who is sitting alone and rocking back and forth in her sleep.

"Ummmm"

Based on circumstantial evidence......Where is the second princess? There is nothing behind Firo either...... Even her shoes are there......Where is her body?

"No way......"

No matter how much of a glutton you are......

"Naofumi-sama, I don't want to believe it but it seems you threatening other humans with Firo eating them may not be a bluff......" "Nonono! No way!" "But......Firo is" "U....."

Can it be?Did you recognize Friend = Edible partner? Is that what you meant by wanting to help her no matter what?

"Raphtalia, let's do our best as fugitives." "Yeah. Our crimes are certain now......"

Seriously, this Fat bird does the most outrageous things.

"Funya?"

Firo wakes up and tilts her head.

"Raphtalia Onee-chan? Master? What happened?" "Firo, where is princess Melty?" "Melty-chan? Melty-chan is sleeping within Firo's feathers." "What? Not inside you?"

This is something that must be verified.

"Melty-chan. Wake up"

Firo lets her feathers on her back stand on end.

"N~?"

It is a strange sight to see, the second princess appearing from within Firo's back.

"What!?"

How is there enough room for a person inside of Firo's feathers? But it is undeniable that the second princess came out of a strange place. "Firo-chan How did you do that?" "Master did you wake me up to look for Mel-chan? Here she is." "Firo's back is very warm......" "......Why did you take your clothes off?" "Because it's hot."

Ah......That's not surprising.

"How did you get so deep?" "Firo-chan's feather's are soft and fluffy, they are also mysterious and thick you know? You want to feel it?" "Ah, Yeah"

What the heck is happening in Firo's body? Since the princess is becking I stretch my hand out. The princess catches my hand and puts it into one of Firo's feathers.

"Uwaa......This is quite deep."

I can put my whole arm into her. As I thought, her temperature is hot. If the princess snuggles up in here I may not notice. It seems to only swell a little.

"What the heck is with this bird's structure." "I know right......" "Should we examine by plucking all her feathers? I might even make a profit from selling the feathers." "No~!" "No roughing up Firo-chan!"

Hmm......Today it seems I have had a glimpse at the strange anatomy of this bird.

Chapter 60

Devilry

Several days later. Firo is pulling the wagon across the highway, while looking like an ordinary Philo Rial. We are mostly trying to ignore villages and towns. Repeatedly camping out at night. We're almost at the border.

"Gueeee!"

Firo cries in alarm. Is it an enemy!? The second princess and I hide in the straw to observe.

"Hehehe, hand over all your money and you may leave."

A familiar sounding voice. Why look at that, if it isn't the thief who tried to rob the accessory merchant before. What is wrong with this guy? He's seriously going to attack a wagon full of straw?

"Hey! Hurry up and leave all your valuables! Oh? you look pretty famili-"

The bandit's complexion instantly pales after he takes a look at Raphtalia in disguise.

"You look different."

It's probably not necessary to hide any more, so I jump out of the wagon. Firo who senses that it's not necessary to disguise herself returns to her Philo Rial · Queen form.

"Are you fighting?"

The second princess anxiously asks from the midst of straw.

"Yeah, probably. Don't worry about it." "Why not? Will we be okay?"

It seems about two thirds of the bandits haven't fought with us before, most of them look at me with a puzzled expression while the rest turn blue.

"D-D-D-Don't be afraid. Th-This guy has a bounty now. I-If we beat him we can get it."

He declares while stuttering and trembling. That's one hell of a stutter.

"Even though I ransacked you last month, you're already back on your feet. Quite quick if I do say so myself."

One of his companions who had a puzzled expression prepares to attack.

"Sh-Shut up! Because of you I'm just a lackey in another group of thieves now!" "Ah, so you guys merged?" "The boss has returned to his country!" "That's great. You should also resign from these types of jobs." "Sh-Shut up! You're going to get it!"

They all take up their weapons and charge us.

"Firo! Raphtalia!" "Okay!" "Okay~!"

I step back to protect the second princess. Neither Raphtalia nor Firo will lose to thieves of this level.

"Eat this!"

One of the thieves swings his sword at Firo.

"Firo-chan!"

The second princess pops out of the straw, extends her hands and starts to chant. What? The second princess can fight?"

"I command the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. blast them with water!" "Ars ・Tzuvait・Aqua Shot!" (Tl note: 「アル・ツヴァイト・アクアショット！」 Anyone got a better name let me know.)

Huh? Water erupts from the second princess's hands and speeds towards the thieves. Tzuvait. It is an adjective that makes a magic intermediate class. As for Ars, it means multiple magic systems.

"Uge!" "Gawa!" "Ugu!"

The thieves near Firo are blown away. That packs quite the punch.

"I command the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. Cut them with blades of water!" "Tzuvait・Aqua Slash!"

The second princess follows up immediately with another spell. More water erupts from her hands but this time instead of a ball of water, blades of water released. Somehow, I heard something dangerous. She missed her target, but the tree that she did hit was cut in half.

"Next......I'll use......"

She's gasping for breath. It seems to be difficult casting continuously.

"They have a magician! She's also an expert!" "Firo-chan!" "Okay~!"

The bandits who are staring at the second princess in surprise are kicked like toys by Firo.

"I'm finished over there." "Not yet~!"

One of the thieves snuck around us by taking advantage of the confusion, and tried to jump the second princess.

"Air Strike Shield!" "Argg!"

Right as he jumps I summon a shield in between them.

"Not yet!"

The remaining thieves start charging at the second princess who is our weakest link.

"Second shield, Change Shield"

I call another shield to protect her and then I instantly change shields. I'll just use the Bee Needle Shield this time. they may accidentally die from sustained poison damage. I'll just stun them with paralysis.

"Ugh,arg......"

One of the thieves is hit by my the second shield and falls down convulsing.

"Still not done yet!"

The first thief who approached the second princess begins to crawl.

"No, it's over." "Ah......"

A big shadow looms over the thief. It seems he noticed too. I hear crying. Probably one of thieves crying in resignation.

"I'll help Mel-chan!"

And with a thud, Firo just body slams him.

"You guys know the drill. Tell me where your hideout is."

I ask after tying up all their members.

"We'll never talk-" "Firo" "It's over there!" "H-hey!"

It seems the newbie thieves don't know their position.

"What's wrong?"

One of the thieves who encountered us last time desperately pleas.

"That fat bird will eat us if we don't accept obediently!" "Are you joking?" "Does that guy look like he jokes?"

I was surprised as the thief talks.

"Who is that anyway? He used some strange skills and magic." 'Don't you understand!? That's the shield!" "Eh!?"

The remaining members of the group of thieves all turn blue.

"The devil and his man-eating bird!?" "That's right! that bird eats everything including the head. I'd rather just get kicked and get away!" "Please just spare our lives! We'll give you all our property, even the leader's!"

It seems another rumour has been added to my notoriety...... Raphtalia sighs and face-palms.

"If you tell a lie-" "I know! so please spare our lives!"

The thieves inform me of their hideout location. Of course, we occupied it with overwhelming combat power.

That day, we spent the night at the bandit hide- I mean inn. And took everything the thieves accumulated. It was mostly just food. But since we have been living like fugitives recently,and only eating demons, a decent meal was appreciated. When we entered the second princess was scared, but after a while she settled down. Anything that was valuable was collected, and anything that was too troublesome to take was burnt. Well if anything is missed, and the thieves reclaim it, I don't really care. I half-smiled at the thieves who were despairing. They were then rolled out of the hideout.

"Hey second princess, it seems you practice magic." "Yup. I learnt it for self-defence." "How much can you use?"

If the second princess joins our party we could fight better in the future.

"What level are you?" "Uhmm, I'm level 18...... I can use a few Intermediate class water spells."

That's unexpectedly low. Well, if we're judging by appearance and age she would be very high levelled. But intermediate magic huh?

"So you are good with water?" "Yup"

Her hair is blue. Are they related?

"I can use a little earth magic too." "Hoh......"

Her repertoire is unexpectedly wide.

"Oh right,does your elder sister use wind magic?"

I would rather not remember her. I was hit in the back during that duel with wind magic. Damn, I'm getting irritated just thinking about it. Let's stop.

"Older Sister? she is proud of her fire magic, and uses a little wind."

Oh, it makes sense due to her hair colour.

"Your mother is good with fire and water?" "That's right"

Not that it matters.

"This is probably for the best. for the time being enter my party." "Okay"

I don't intend to rely on her. But this is insurance in the case of an emergency. It would be best if we didn't fight though. There is always the risk of death. I don't want to go in a direction that would not require us to rely on the second princess.

"Hey. Why did Hero of the Shield-sama make father so angry?" "Now that I think about it I didn't tell you. It all started when your sister framed me-"

That night, I told the second princess everything that trash and bitch did to me. Firo also seemed to be listening to my story for some reason, but she stayed quiet. I did not hide anything or lie, I just told her the truth. Well my feelings and grudges were mixed in a little, but I'll just think of it as education.

"Father and Elder sister are cruel! Even though Hero of the Shield-sama said bad things to them I can't complain." "Right, right." "Mother even said to value the Hero of the Shield-sama as much as possible." "What?"

What did you say? Doesn't the religion of this country designate the shield as the devil? Is the queen different?

"What's wrong?" "Nothing, I'm just wondering what your mother thinks of me." "Um......I don't know. But she sent a letter to father telling him to treat all the heroes the same."

I understand the second princess's story a little, it seems the queen was worried this would happen to me. Oh well, since it all happened anyway thanks to trash.

"Master, a lot of things happened before Firo was born." "That's right" "Eh?"

The second princess has a dumbfounded look.

"Uhmm Firo-chan how old are you?" "One month and three weeks old." "Ehh!?"

Being surprised is correct. Her growth was rapid even for a demon.

"Firo-can is so precocious" "Ehehehe......I was praised." "You were praised?" "Then I'm the older sister." "Well, in the age category. Raphtalia over there is about the same as you." "Raphtalia onee-chan is......"

Firo looks at Raphtalia with an extremely disappointed expression. Raphtalia looks at me coldly. Well, I understand your feelings since the bird said something like that.

"Wh-what?" "Demi-humans...... even if we are the same age she feels older." "Well...... I was not allowed to lose."

The atmosphere is delicate.

"Well, despite Raphtalia's age, her appearance suits her."

That would have immediately labelled me as a lolicon. Also, both the second princess and Firo are children. Not to mention, Raphtalia became my slave when she was a little girl.

"This is just how things work out." "Naofumi-sama......"

These three would be considered a Loli-Harem. I wonder what the other heroes would say.

"Anyway, we'll rest here today and cross the border tomorrow." ""Yay~!"" "Okay!"

Chapter 61

Persuasion

"Wow......"

I muttered unintentionally while looking around the checkpoints at the border to the north east. The reason I muttered is due to the enormous amount of knights patrolling the border. Did they bring a while army for this? What're you going to do if another country attacks. That trash...... Well, I was certainly expecting soldiers, but this amount is ridiculous.

"The devil of the shield will surely escape to Silt Welt! Do not miss him!" "Roger!"

So insufferably annoying...... They are being strict enough with the border patrol that not even ants can escape. If it were just Raphtalia, Firo, and I we may be able to break through the front, but now we have to worry about the second princess. It is probably impossible. Even If we do charge in from the front the other Heroes may also be here......

Well they shouldn't have recovered completely from the last wave yet though. Me charging in alone while they try to sneak past is also not going to work...... However, how did they find out I was going to Silt Welt? They probably figured that would be the most disadvantageous country for them. Either way, my imagination is running wild.

"What do we do?...... We can't pass the barricade, should we change roads?" "Impossible......"

The second princess mutters.

"Why would it be impossible?" "This seems to be an emergency deployment. Warnings will resound once people cross national borders, and soldiers will rush there." "That's pretty severe......"

I imagine something like an infra-red alarm system. These guys probably have something like this set up along the border. Even if we just camp a mountain it will only be a matter of time before we are discovered.

"Firo can you evade them while pulling the wagon?" "They were warned. It is impossible to get away since they have the warning line." "Hmm...... They are strangely detailed." "This is my mother's emergency plan, no expenses were spared since it will be used in emergencies after all." "It's quite elaborate......"

My Killing intent rises. Though there is nothing I can do to release it.

"Can't we escape to Silt Welt through another country?"

The closest border is here, and we cannot choose any others. We ended up bumping to a villager from the neighbouring village. Since we are in disguise it should be fine. The second princess and I are hiding within the straw.

"Ah......"

Raphtalia and the villager makes eye contact and there is a mysterious silence.

"Hero of the shield-sama. It is dangerous here. I recommend you take a detour."

We were found out immediately? I must reconsider Raphtalia's disguise.

"Ah, our country has improved a lot thanks to the seed Hero-sama gave us. Thank you."

Now that I look carefully. This guy is from the neighbouring country. Moreover, this guy looks like he's been peddling.

"I think your disguise will be fine if you add a little more dirt. I only recognized you since she is such a beautiful Raccoon Demi-human.

This is my fault. As expected, Raphtalia seems to be one of the better looking raccoon demi-humans. Or did she become a celebrity when we were peddling? In the first place when I bought Raphtalia the slave trader said that the raccoon class's appearance is slightly bad. Since they are very wary, they are able to disguise themselves.

"I'm sorry for everything." "Don't even think about it. Compared to what Hero of the Shield-sama has done for us, this much is nothing."

I give him some silver in exchange for food. Our food problem is quite serious due to Firo. During our fugitive life-style her stomach rumbled non-stop. I'm afraid she'll drop in speed. Our only advantages are Firo's speed and disguise ability. It is practically our life line against bounty hunters and adventurers on the road.

"Oh a peddler? I want to buy something....."

Oh shit! A soldier approaches the guy from the neighbouring country.

"......Hero of the shield-sama?"

Shit, we've been discovered by a soldier! Just as I was about to order firo to silence him and run-

"It's me. I co-operated with Hero-sama during the wave."

Ah now that I look carefully he's one of the volunteer soldiers. That reminds me, after parting with trash I couldn't follow up on any of the others that came with me to the castle. I was a little worried, but it seems like they're co-operating with us? Though at that time I did not know about the story of the Devil of the shield. It must have been a considerably hard decision to go through with. They might even have been demoted.

"......Did you get demoted?" "No, for some reason there was no blame." "I see, then you're on border patrol without getting demoted?" "It's not like that. the majority of the knights are concentrated here."

Just for me!? Hey hey. Just how much does trash hate me? It seems they really don't want me to go to Silt Welt. Catching me might not even be their true purpose here though. There must be something I don't know concerning the country called Silt Welt. It might not impossible to proceed after all. My best hand = Whatever the enemy hates. I don't know what, but there is certainly something I can exploit here.

"Anyway, It's dangerous here. Please escape as soon as possible." "I am grateful." "Don't mention it...... Hero-sama, are you troubled by the fact that we bumped into each other here, and that I recognize you as the Hero of the Shield-sama?"

......Certainly. At the time of the last wave, the other Heroes may have contributed to Glass's withdrawal. They may consider my abilities above them but...... I would be murdered if we encounter again. In any case, we change Raphtalia's clothes for some even worse ones and plaster her face with mud.

"For the time being let's get out of here." "I pray that your suspicions will be cleared up."

After parting with the villager from the neighbouring country and the volunteer, we headed south to take a detour.

We had only advanced a little. According to the volunteer's story Motoyasu and Itsuki were on their way in a carriage. .....I barely steal a glance. One of their magicians seems to be chanting something.

"There! That cart of straw!"

I seriously hope that was not us. Immediately I have a very bad feeling. Motoyasu and Itsuki rush up to our cart. Shit! Why are you guys heading here? It's probably that bastard that used magic. I suppose it's some analysis magic. I brush off the straw and jump off the wagon. Firo sensed the situation and returned to her Philo Rial · Queen form.

"So it was you after all!"

To they they were so close. Ren also appears. Shit...... Can this situation get any worse?

"We found you! Free princess Melty!"

Itsuki points at me like he's some messenger of justice and makes a provoking face.

"Release what, I'm not restraining the second princess." "Stop playing dumb, we have evidence!" "That's right. You have no justice." "Justice......huh?"

Are the knights acting based on justice during the wave? The reality is, everyone has their own sense of justice.

Wait...... If I think carefully this guy's sense of justice is very straight forward. Back in the castle town Ren was worried about the village of plague, while Itsuki just wasted my time on his useless justice impression. Can I use this?

Well, there is no way they will believe me but I might as well try. It will still be worth it trying to explain it once and the matter gets settled. In other words, If I can turn their sense of justice against each other we may get out of this yet. An evil plot is hatched. It is one of the situations that game enthusiasts long for. If it works this will make them doubt the country......

"Are you guys saying that what you believe in is truly justice?" "What are you saying?" "The second princess is here without any injuries."

I show the heroes the second princess while maintaining readiness to defend from any attacks. The second princess looks at me anxiously, and nods.

"Hero of the sword-sama, Hero of the spear-sama, Hero of the bow-sama. The Hero of the Shield-sama is innocent. Rather he has saved my life."

the second princess is not speaking with her usual childish tone, but rather with the authority of an authentic princess. The expressions of those 3 visibly change. In fact, they are just finding out they were used for evil. Since these guys are basically lumps of justice, this will be extraordinarily disgraceful.

"Please believe me. There is a big conspiracy hidden behind this." "But why did princess Melty go to this guy?" "I just asked him to protect my life."

The second princess explains what happened to them.

"Isn't it unnatural? Who would profit if the Hero of the Shield-sama kidnaps me?" "Th-Thats......

Are you trying to look for a reason? Your eyes are swimming.

"But, this guy is-" "Did the country Merlot Mark not give the Hero of the Sheild-sama different treatment?" "Certainly......" "In the first place Mother was saying. When the time of misfortune comes, the people must join hands and unite to repel it...... There is no room for Hero-samas to be fighting each other. Please lower your weapons."

The 3 heroes weaken their grips on their weapons and stood down. Though they are still wary. They were defeated in the last fight after all. As the second princess said, we need to train together and get stronger. If we are going to fulfil our missions as Heroes, we cannot just increase our levels. Both our weapons and levels must be sufficient.

"Do you understand? This is a conspiracy. I will tell you everything that I know. Whether or not you decide to fight will be up to you."

After I say so the bitch steps forward.

"Do not listen to the words of the Devil of the shield!"

Shit! You bitch, I was just about to explain our circumstances. What should I say. In the first place is she even worried about her younger sister?

"The latest incident is already solved! the devil of the shield used powerful brainwashing on the second princess!"

Chapter 62

Common Destiny

"Ah.....Melty......To think you would be brainwashed by the devil of the shield." "Elder Sister?"

The second princess gives the bitch a look of astonishment.

That bitch...... This is absolutely disgusting. What kind of shield can brainwash. If I had such a thing, I wouldn't be having such a hard time. To think she would claim I brainwashed someone without even flinching. I mean the purpose of religion is brainwashing. What a joke.

"Does the wicked shield possess the power to brainwash? It seems fake......" "I don't know if you have heard, but this was a suspicion of the church's from a month ago."

That's when I started peddling. Selling medicine to sick people was my priority back then. After that, rumours of me being the saint of the holy bird started spreading. Indeed, that cannot be a coincidence. It turned out to be convenient for the church in various ways.

"this situation proves it. Were you guys not being clouded by the information he provided?And also about to help him? Is it common to help out with criminals?" "Some of the countrymen are also acting strange. If the Hero of the shield can make an old grandmother energetic, he also might be capable of brainwashing."

That grandmother......I instantly know who that is.

However, don't I have a say in this? These guys...... It is true that a lot of people have helped me recently. However, that's just repaying me for saving them. What I don't know = The enemy's strategy. These guys are also stupid enough to believe it.

"He is probably brainwashing his companions to talk for him too. We are currently preparing some church authorized personnel with the power to remove the brainwashing." "What kind of power is that!"

No one reacts to my retort No, Raphtalia, Firo, and the second princess are also dumbfounded. Let's think about this situation, The government is ordering the country to gather information, and also placing a high bounty on me. A lie that I have the power to brainwash was fed to the three heroes by the bitch, she also has convincing fake evidence. Is that it? Realistic forgeries.That's not impossible.

"Is the hero of the shield-sama that powerful?"

The second princess looks at me anxiously.

"Do I look like that to you?" "Umm......I don't think so." "I kind of hoped for an immediate answer."

I wouldn't be struggling so hard if I had such a convenient shield. If I can brain wash the soldiers, knights, magicians, and villagers I could just become the lord. I need to defend myself in this situation. In other words this was arranged when they put that bounty on my head, the authenticity that the shield can brainwash is doubtful to say the least. Do you god damn heroes not understand something so simple?

"So Raphtalia-chan and Firo-chan are being brainwashed forcefully by that guy!" "You're wrong! We're not brainwashed!" "We'll rescue you!" "Firo wants to be with master!"

Motoyasu you bastard, still not given up on Firo and Raphtalia yet!? Just how much do you like women?

"We've heard enough! Hand over the second princess!" "Eh!?"

The second princess was surprised to gasp.

"......Will you tell us what happened?"

Ren takes the lead and asks. This is a volatile situation. I want to avoid wrong choices as much as possible.

"In the first place I have no such power as brainwashing-" "I do not believe it!" "Shut up! You're annoying, Shogun!"

Since Itsuki prevented me from explaining I told him to shut up. Aren't you a hypocrite deciding on right and wrong only after you get one-sided information?

"Anyway, this is a conspiracy. The King, that woman over there, or the church attempted to assassinate the second princess and frame me for it." "......I understand what you said. We'll just have to take you into custody first. I promise not to harm your companions. Just wait till the inspection is complete." "You actually believe it!?" "That's right!" "Hero of the Sword-sama! Don't listen to the words of the devil!" "I would rather end this without fighting. The truth can be confirmed later."

As expected Ren is the only one staying calm in this situation and analysing. ......Should I consider it?

"......No"

The second princess clenches my hand tightly and begs. She is trembling and her face is pale.

"I will most likely be murdered......"

I confirm the surrounding situation. The second princess probably will receive treatment different from us. Since in order to remove the brainwashing the second princess will be subjected to magic by magicians of this country. And what happens will be as follows: A brutal curse will be removed from the second princess, but she will die because of its power. Such a scenario will play out. Ren will surely believe it and I will be branded the culprit. The possibility that this is an event orchestrated by Bitch to frame me is very high. To even aim for your younger sister......

"Help......"

A small voice could be heard. There is also no way to prove my innocence. Sigh......

"Didn't I promise?" "Eh?"

During that day I was falsely accused to rape. Nobody believed me. And now this matter concerns the life and death of the second princess. Brainwashing...... what a convenient plot used by those that want to kill the second princess.

This is too obvious....... Even I know that much. The second princess's death means our defeat. We definitely have a common destiny. Who would trust an untrustworthy person?

"Too bad. You cannot be trusted. Even if the second princess is handed over I will still be screwed. I promised her that I would absolutely protect her."

I place the second princess on Firo's back and tell Raphtalia to get on as well.

"Firo I know you hate it but abandon the wagon and run!" "Okay~!" "See ya."

I also jump on and Firo takes off.

"Ah, wait-" "Okay let's go-!"

We are instantly 7 meters away. As I expected, Firo's leg strength is truly fearsome. But those three aren't falling behind and keep pace.

"You think you can escape!?"

Itsuki shoots magic arrows at us.

"Air Strike Shield! Second Shield!"

I turn around and chant the skills. Blocking the attacks aimed at us. The shield shattered with a loud crack, but the attacks have been neutralized.

"You won't escape!"

Itsuki's starts to prepare another arrow. I cannot use the shield any more due to cooldown time.

"Eagle Piercing Shot!"

Itsuki's arrow glows after being shot and flies straight at us. What the hell. The one you should be protecting, the second princess is here too. Why are you using such a strong skill! While riding on Firo I am forced to change my posture to receive the arrow.

"Master are you okay?"

Firo supports me so that I don't fall over.

"That arrow...... Firo! It's coming!" "Yeah, It's very fast."

The arrow which Itsuki shot is fast enough to catch up to the light-footed Firo. At first glance I understand that it's a lump of energy.This doesn't look like a beginner skill. I change my shield to the Chimeric Viper Shield and prepare. I hope I can endure this. I stare that the lump of energy. Then, I see an arrow. It's flying fast and in a straight line.

......Can it be done? Firo might fall over from the impact if I take it badly.

No.....Judging by the name of the skill, this is meant for penetrating. Because I played a fair amount of Net Games, the name of bow system attacks aren't unfamiliar. This arrow is meant to pierce a hole right through me. It is a skill used specifically since I am here, such high efficiency.

Then it's not possible to receive this arrow. Can't be helped...... the only way to escape this penetration attack is to either get out of range or to catch it. Can I do it? If I fail this will dangerous. Seriously, you guys totally forgot about the second princess right? ......I start to focus.

I intensely concentrate on the flying attack, While lightly putting my hand over it's energy, I catch the arrow by it's shaft just before it reaches me!

"What!? He caught my Eagle Piercing Shot with his hand!?"

Itsuki responds to my action by expressing his shock. The shot of energy is unexpectedly weak, I just dispersed the power and caught the arrow.

"Wait!"

Ugh! Ren and Motoyasu catch up and take out their weapons. I had to make some unnecessary movements to catch Itsuki's arrow and just barely stop falling off. Our speed fell a bit as a result. To think that they would have companions that could catch up.

"I do not want to attack Firo-chan, this is all your fau--Gefu" "Hindrance."

Firo stomps Motoyau in the face. Was it that unexpected? This isn't the time now. Ren aims his sword at me. Dokun...... The shield pulsates, and I unconsciously stretch my right hand towards Ren's sword. Fresh blood scatters and pain runs through my hand. Why!? It is different from what I expected. Ren's eyes do not shift, as if he's being manipulated by something. My shield suddenly glows red, and black flames are fired at Ren.

"Wh--"

This was probably unpredictable. Ren desperately defends with his sword. Is that Dark Curse Burning? Did the core of the dragon killed by Ren react and counter attack from the shield? To think the shield would change without permission and flash red. Dokun......Dokun...... Oh shit. It would be impossible for Firo to run away from here if the shield of anger comes out.

"Raphtalia, give me your hand......" "Yes? Naofumi-sama!? You are injured!"

An anxious Raphtalia looks at me with concern and stretches out her hand. The pulsations settled down and subsides.

"Firo are you okay? Escape as fast as possible!" "Okay~!"

Firo regains her balance and runs at full power. We lose the heroes in no time. After that, Firo ran at full power till she was exhausted.

"We should be safe for a while here." "Yeah, Firo-chan is fast~!" "Firo is a little tired." "That's fine......but we lost all our luggage and our wagon." "Can't be helped."

I have some stuff one me, portable rations, money, a knife, and simple cooking utensils. But we lost Raphtalia's armour...... I feel uneasy. I think it's showing on my expression.

"Since we did not cross the border, what will we do now?......"

We can probably run around the country aimlessly. But we have to at least try to get to Silt Welt by a detour route. We'll continue our fugitive lifestyle By the way, I cured the injury with a Fast Heal.

Chapter 63

Shadow

We are travelling south along the border, searching for any gaps within the border patrol. Motoyasu is extremely annoying. He's been chasing us ever since. There hasn't been any situations where we were truly in danger, since that one back at the border thanks to Firo's swift running.

the strange thing is that there has been no sign of either Ren or Itsuki. Did they give up? Or are they laying an ambush somewhere? In the first place trying to accuse me of brainwashing was irrational. Did they lose interest in this event and go back to levelling? I would understand if Ren gave up since he was already sceptical, but was it good luck for us that Itsuki is also nowhere to be found? On the contrary, Motoyasu is way too persistent.

Either way, it is fortunate since his attacks aren't as strong as Ren's and he doesn't have any ranged attacks like Itsuki. To be honest Motoyasu seems more interested in Firo than actually bringing the second princess back. Still problems are piling up non stop......

"What should we do?......"

It is irresponsible to just pass everyday being disgruntled, I must consider what we should do. Border patrol is too strict. Isn't there somewhere we can sneak over? Living as a fugitive everyday won't solve anything, and my life is over when the next wave arrives.

In this case, recklessly crossing the border may not actually be a bad idea. As it stands our names will never be cleared. Those chasing me may also avoid Silt Welt.

That night we discussed our course of action over the camp fire. Since Firo is stupid, she is not listening. The second princess and Raphtalia had some reaction, but that was to be expected.

"It might be a little tough, but if we want to break through, then here is our best bet."

It would be hard to pull off. But, as long as the other heroes don't interfere my defence should be able to break though.

"You're right, we won't last if we continue escaping like this......" "Yeah......" "Mel-chan!"

Firo returns to her human form and starts playing with the second princess. Kan! Hm? I heard a strange sound coming from the scruff of my neck. What? It's not painful but...... I immediately turn around, and see a needle fall down.

"Master, enemies!" "What?"

Was that a blow dart just now? Or was it something Itsuki fired? I cannot confirm anything due visibility since it's night time.

"I didn't notice until he attacked." "What?"

Bofun!a bunch of darts fly out of nowhere and Firo expands her wings to cover the second princess. Can Itsuki even fire so many at once? No, Leaving that aside! The main usage of blow darts are to apply poisons. Firo and I will be fine due to our poison resistance, but it will be dangerous if Raphtalia or the second princess gets hit. I have no idea what kind of poison they are using either. If I know what poison they are using I can make an antidote. There were a bunch of antidotes in the wagon and carriage too...... But I can't treat anyone in these conditions!

"Ah......"

I turn my gaze to Raphtalia. At that moment a blowgun dart aimed at her appears.

"Air St-

I shout for Air Strike Shield in haste, but I don't know if I can make it. Immediately, a high-pitched screech is heard and the dart was stopped.

"That was dangerous degojaru."

Suddenly, someone in jet-black clothes appears and defends Raphtalia. His face is covered by cloth so I can't see it. I can't tell if his voice is male or female. Who is that? A ninja? Degojaru?

"Hurry up and flee degojaru!

In the shadows of the trees and bushes fighting could be heard.

"Hero of the Shield-dono, leave this to us and run away degojaru. Wait for me after you have escaped, I want to talk with you degojaru." "What is going on!" "There is no time to explain right now, I'll do it later degojaru!" "Tch! Firo, Raphtalia, Second princess!" "Okay~" "Yeah" "U-understood!"

While riding on Firo, blow darts were flying around us.

"Do you know who that person was?" "I think so, that is probably my mother's secret guard corps......"

Explains the second princess while we were getting away.

"Really?" "Yeah. I know the person who helped Raphtalia-san. She is my mother's body double." "Now that I think, about it her way of speaking is familiar."

Is she that woman I passed in the hallway after parting with trash? Her behaviour and appearance left a strong impression.

"So what exactly is going on? We got ambushed, but we have no idea who did it."

I would say it was Itsuki, but that guy should not be capable of such things. Judging by his character, he would confront me head on.

"Assassination corps of the country......maybe" "There's an assassination corps?"

Now that's dangerous. Well, places where the nobles and kings completely trust each other do not exist. That leads to a great deal of problems being handled behind closed doors. It's quite simple actually.

"Though in reality they are the same as the secret guard corps......" "You guys have separate assassination corps?" "......I don't know" "I see......"

I guess there's no choice but to hear from someone who knows. After running a certain distance on Firo, we prepared and waited in case of more enemies.

"Hmm?"

Firo reacts immediately.

"Here it comes."

Suddenly, the ninja-like person appears in front of me.

"Sorry for the wait degojaruna" "Ah don't worry about it. Thanks to you we got away safely." "First of all, I should introduce myself degojaruga...... Have you already heard from princess Melty degojaruka?" "I heard you are a body double. And you are either from the secret guard crops or some assassination unit." "That is not entirely correct degojaru. We are the special duty corps of the country, and our aliases is [Shadow] degojaru." "I see." "By the way, I do not have a name degojaru. I believe shadow shall suffice degojaru."

Shadow huh...... Trying to sound cool? I wonder if it's just the difference between my world and the inhabitants of this world. Since there are ninjas I'm reminded of the Showa era.

"So, who did you fight?" "Shadows of the country and church degojaru." "Aren't you from the same organization?" "The organization is not unified degojaruyo. There are factions within the organization that are fighting each other degojaru."

There are so many things wrong with that but I'll refrain from commenting for now.....

"Why did you help us?"

Since that's what I'm most curious about I'll ask. I have a few guesses, but none are concrete.

"I cannot answer that degojaru." "I see. Are you sworn to secrecy?" "All I will say is that this one works as princess Melty's guard degojaru." "I don't believe that."

She didn't even show up when the second princess as being attacked.

"I did not appear because I knew the Hero of the shield-dono could protect her degojaru." "You bastard......"

That means she knew but stayed silent. Although,she seems fairly competent.

"Originally I was somewhere else with her majesty the queen but I was ordered to watch over Hero of the Shield-dono degojaru."

The self-named shadow shows a map and points. What she was pointing at was the neighbouring country to our south west. The opposite direction of Silt Welt.

"Right now her Majesty the Queen is there degojaru. Since this country is in the opposite direction of Silt Welt where Hero of the Shield-dono is escaping to, patrols are scarce degojaru." "Oh....."

For some reason, I feel that if I run away to the country to Demi-humans I would receive some recognition. It occurred to me that there may be something in the country of Demi-humans that believes in the shield, similar to how this country believes in the Three Heroes Church. I can probably safely go into exile there in cases like this, and it would be very bad for trash. Though since they are putting so many resources to guard the border that it makes it impossible to break through. This distance can be covered by Firo in two and a half weeks, but it will be hard to advance since the other heroes are anticipating it. Even though we have to take a detour I want to go.

"This latest case has many things behind it degojaru. I will cooperate with Hero of the shield-dono as much as possible degojaru." "What do you mean?" "Right now the higher ups of the Three Heroes Church are discussing about the activities of hero of the shield-dono degojaru. So I had no choice but to move and inform you degojaruyo." "Hmm.....So in other words, they had a reason to maintain that farce of claiming I have the power to brainwash."

My activities recently consisted mostly of selling medicine and helping people who were in trouble. However, as a result of those actions I solved problems that the other heroes have caused. It seems that due to these events, people are starting to question the legend of the Hero of the shield spread by the church. If they can prove that I am capable of large-scale brainwashing, then the people's faith in the Church would be restored. But won't it also mean that if I can prove my innocence the Three Heroes Church will receive a devastating blow?

"What should we do degojaru? If you are planning on going to Silt Welt, would you require help degojaruka? "That's......"

Giving someone else a difficult job and relaxing myself is not one of my hobbies. Even if I do just escape, when the wave comes I'll be summoned into the midst of enemies. That's very inconvenient. The church, The bitch, and the trash king will all want to capture and torture me. Rather than going into exile recklessly, and then getting summoned into a trap, this might be more effective. If this goes well my remaining days here will be easy. But......

"What would the queen gain from helping me. The Three Heroes Church may get destroyed." "I cannot answer that degojaru."

Shadow is only giving me answers about the queen, but not what I should do next. Though she is certainly the queen's subordinate. The second princess is someone we both need to protect, and since she is a subordinate of the queen, I cannot do anything that might disadvantage her. As far as I am concerned meeting the queen would be more beneficial for me.

Frankly, I cannot see what the queen's goal is. From what I can make out of the second princess's speech and behaviour, her goal would be to prevent wars between this country and another. Furthermore, she understands what is happening to me, due to the deep-rooted and crazy legends in this country about the devil of the shield. The shadow also said "I want to cooperate". It seems the queen does not share the same views as the Three Heroes Church. That is just a safe line though......

Hmm...... Perhaps she isn't my enemy. Though it is also doubtful whether or not she can be called a friend, it is still better than my current hand and the present conditions.

"You saved Raphtalia, so I'll hear you out. Do I only have to meet the queen?"

This is nothing but a farce, and I don't really have any choice but to willingly participate.

"I don't like the idea of acting based on someone else's ideas, but it seems to be for the best. But if you deceive me......" "I know degojaru. Then I'll leave at once degojaru. We don't know when the shadows on the church's side may show up degojarukara"

After saying so she disappeared instantly. Though my last words were a joke, it seems to have been taken seriously.

"Can we trust her?"

Honestly, I am slightly suspicious.

"It's alright...... because mother trusts her." "I can't understand your mother......"

Though at least her thinking seems to be different from both trash and bitch. So far all I have is that she seems to be friendly, but that is only based on information from shadow and the second princess, her true purpose still remains unknown. I also cannot deny that this could all be another a plot to assassinate the second princess by the Three Heroes Church. I have no other choices so if this is a conspiracy by the queen to kill me, I am doomed. In the end, we advance in the opposite direction of Silt Welt. I do not want to believe it, but there is also a chance that the second princess was truly abandoned.

But, it is necessary to know the queen's agenda. I cannot just view this situation as black and white any more.

"Anyway, I have decided on our destination." "Okay. Let's go." "All right.Let's go. Firo-chan" "Firo will do her best!"

We have taken a step from escaping abroad aimlessly. Now we will set a course towards the south west.

Chapter 64

Name

We changed our course and advanced south west. Since we have been riding on Firo for a while without a wagon, I'm getting cramps.

"Is there a cart somewhere that we can steal?"

Since I already have a bounty. It's just a wagon......

"Noo~!"

Firo seemed to have a reaction to that

"Firo won't pull a cart that is stolen."

Is this perhaps some Philo Rial sense of justice?

"Stealing aside, it's quite uncomfortable to ride Firo for a long time." "Does the second princess also think so?" "Ummm......"

The second princess gives me an unpleasant look and avoids my question. what's wrong?

"Even though it will be dangerous, maybe we could have Raphtalia buy a wagon in a village......"

It would be nice to just have something to ride in. Should I ask that shadow?

"Oops, it looks like nightfall soon. Shall we take a break?"

Just as we were about to rest.

"""Gua!?"""

A wild Philo Rial A appeared! A wild Philo Rial B appeared! A wild Philo Rial C appeared!

The Philo Rials saw Firo and raised their voices. They look familiar. Ah, they're the ones that ran away immediately before. Somehow these Philo Rial have the expressions of those determined to complete their mission, but after a while they run away again.

"What's that?" "How rare, being able to encounter Philo Aria and Firiru classes in the wild."

The second princess seems to be looking at those Philo Rial with entranced expressions.

"I've this suspicion for a while now, but second princess, you really like Philo Rials right?" "Yup! Ah......"

After the second princess nodded, she looked at me with an unpleasant face. Just what did I say? Gu...... Firo's stomach growls.

"I'm hungry." "Do not eat each other." "Firo-chan is such a glutton."

The second princess pokes Firo with her fingers.

"Ehehe"

It's good that they are close, but their behaviour is a little disgusting. Like some idiot couples.

I finish preparing the camp-fire and start cooking.

"Hey, second princess."

I give her today's dinner but she refuses it with a frown. What on earth did I say?

"Mel-chan doesn't want to eat?" "I'll eat. But......"

The second princess seems to be at a loss. What is going on?

"What's wrong?" "Nothing."

When Raphtalia asks the second princess picks up her dinner.

"What's wrong Mel-chan" "Um......"

Firo asks the second princess and she shows a troubled face.

"I don't have the power to brainwash you know." "That's not it!"

The second princess turns away and pouts. Her usual attitude doesn't change. She happily chats with Firo's human form and, talks with Raphtalia happily. But for some reasons she only gives me an unpleasant face, or just ignores me. I can't understand at all. After finishing our meal, I heard a few strange cries in the distance.

"The cry of Philo Rial!"

The second princess strains her ears to listen carefully.

"The second princess really likes Philo Rial huh." "Yup!" "Why do you like them so much?"

When the second princess noticed I asked the question she gave me another unpleasant look. Another Philo Rial cry is heard.

"Because......Philo Rials are legendary holy birds......" "Legendary?" "Yes. It is a common belief that Philo Rials are companions of Heroes that save people from demons in the olden times." "That so?" "Yes, in the past during another wave of calamity, the heroes used them as mounts." "There were waves back then?"

Since it was something I heard from trash I disregarded it. However, there was a prophecy of the wave. I wonder if that was it. Glass also said that thinking of the wave as a simple disaster was a big mistake. Though I don't know if I'll get an answer, I might be able to get some hints from the second princess's story.

"When travelling with mother, she told me the story of Philo Rials." "Interesting......What stories?" "You see Philo Rials are the mounts of heroes, their support,and also their protectors." "Right now Firo here is the same."

Raphtalia answers while looking at Firo. Certainly, Firo is the cornerstone of our offensive power. Her legs are fast and strong. Without Firo, earning money through peddling would have been very difficult. Not to mention our lives right now as fugitives are only possible thanks to her.

"Yes. The legends also describe the Queen of Philo Rials." "Is that so?" "Umm, the Queen of Philo Rials was also a hero's mount, and she helped them fight against the wave. It is said that the Queen of Philo Rials who also participated in the wave at that time is still alive and watching over the world to this day."

Did I just use such a legend as a substitute horse? That also explains the reason why Firo was called a holy bird.

"You see,my dream is to one day meet the Queen of Philo Rials."

The second princess embraces Firo affectionately while saying so.

"The Queen of Philo Rials. They are capable of various transformations." "Well, Firo is probaby also the Queen of Philo Rials. She has all kinds of transformations abilities too." "That's right! And since I could become friends with Firo-chan my dream was realized."

Second princess, is that the reason you wanted to become friends with Firo?

"Queen huh......"

Incidentally I start thinking about the second princess's mother. I don't know what kind of persons she is, but if possible I would like to have a talk with her and ask about the story. Since she is also a parent of that bitch. Half in expectation, half in resignation, according to degojaru's story......I have to admit she does seem to be a good person. Hmm? I have a feeling there was some sense of incongruity just now. I compare Firo with the second princess.

"Ahh, so that's what it was." "What's wrong?" "Well, according to legend the Queen of Philo Rials is still alive now, does that make Firo a princess of the Philo Rials?" "Eh, so are you saying Firo-chan is not the Queen?" "Who knows. Though there is no way to prove that the actual Queen still exists right?"

As if the second princess understood something she shook her head.

"Then are you saying that my dream of meeting the queen still hasn't been fulfilled?......" "Did I say something bad?" "No. Just that I would like to meet her some day." "What do you want to do after meeting her?" "I want to be friends!" "I see I see, when the time comes I'll help you out, second princess. After the world becomes peaceful together with Firo you can search for her." "What about Master~?" "I'm going back to my own world."

There is no reason to remain in this world, and if I had the choice I would go without hesitation. Though I do not say that.

"No~! Firo wants to go with Master!" "No, There's no way people of this world can come." "I want to go! I want to go!" "Endure it. Because the second princess will be your new master." "No~!"

Oh my, its gotten quite noisy.

"Really......Naofumi-sama will leave if it becomes peaceful." "Yeah, what about it?" "Nothing......"

Raphtalia mutters while looking at the camp-fire with deadpan eyes.

"----Don't call me that!" "Hm? Second princess what's wrong?"

The second princess seems to be talking about something while trembling.

"What did you say?" "Stop calling me the second princess!"

While looking at me with tears in her eyes the second princes shouts.

"What is with you suddenly?" "The second princess is not a name! I am Melty!" "What? Isn't that obvious?" "Why does the Hero of the shield-sama not call me by my name!?"

It seems the stress from the journey has finally exploded. Raphtalia and Firo were just as surprised as I was and looked at the second princess with eyes of bewilderment.

"How many times do I have to say!? My name is Melty! However, Hero of the Shield-sama just keeps calling me second princess, second princess! That's not my name, that's a position!" "What? Did you just want me to call you by your name?" "That's not what I mean! why is Hero of the shield-sama ostracising me!?" "Ostracised? Well, you are an outsider from the party after all." "But we are friends sharing joys and sorrows now! Don't just call me by my position!" "Hmm......But don't you call me Hero of the Shield?"

I can say the same about this second princess. My name is not Hero of the Shield.

"Then I'll call you Naofumi in the future. So Naofumi has to call me by my name too!" "Haah......" "Hey! Call my Name! Naofumi!"

To call me by my first name without even adding honorifics. Though if I don't reply she is going to become even noisier. Since I am troubled that there may be night-attacks despite camping out, I don't want to make too much noise. In the first place...... the second princess even calls Raphtalia with honorifics. But I remember the bitch calling my name with "sama". That bitch called me Hero-sama but...... Well, this is probably alright.

"Fine. Melty. Is this fine?" "You better remember it!" "Yeah Yeah."

Was she just displeased recently because I was calling her the second princess? such a troublesome fellow. Or is it because she's a girl?

"Firo was surprised."

Yeah. Firo is noisy, but she's not hysterical. Is it just noisiness peculiar to children? Though for Firo it's fine, since her age is correspondingly short.

"So princess Melty did mind it."

Raphtalia......How did you know? My name was called without me noticing.

"Since you helped me, give me your hand."

Since she insisted I shook her hands. Her fighting style is reliable, but unlike Firo it has good affinity with me who uses a shield. She can help with my business when peddling, and it should be easy for her to disguise herself.

"Are you praising me?" "Is there something wrong?" "Seriously......"

Why does Raphtalia looked troubled? I feel like something strangely annoying happened.

"Well should we sleep early to get ready for tomorrow?" "Understood." "Okay~" "Uh huh."

Chapter 65

Legend of the Holy Bird

Several days after changing the way I address the second princess to Melty. We have been making considerable progress in the opposite direction of Silt Welt thanks to Firo.

Setting that aside. Recently we have been encountering a lot of wild Philo Rials. At night their calls remind me of howling wolves in the distance, it is very annoying, especially in the middle of the night. Is there a Philo Rial habitat around here?

I wonder while sleeping. It was midnight when and I was sleeping when suddenly.

"""Gua~!""" "Firo, shut up." "It's not Firo."

That was fairly close to us though, if it wasn't Firo then what was it? Are there more wild Philo Rials?

"Umm......Naofumi-sama? I heard a lot of Philo Rial cries."

I notice another cry, and this one is quite near.

"Thanks for reminding me. Firo, do you know how many there are?" "I don't know." "Are they far off?" "Well, They are coming." "What?"

We look at Firo with strained expressions.

"Be cautious." "Everyone said they are coming to meet with Firo ." "Are they speaking to you with this cry!?" "Yep."

She nodded. I feel uneasy at large amount of Philo Rial cries that could be heard. The bushes all around us start shaking, and silhouettes of Philo Rials could be seen.

"What the hell is going on!?" "Waa......There are so many Philo Rial!"

Melty's eyes start to shine as she watches the Philo Rial.

"Umm, Melty. Listen well because I'll teach you something important." "What is it?" "Philo Rials eat everything. Firo and I may be alirght, but if these Philo Rial attack, you and Raphtalia will be eaten." "What are you saying Naofumi. Philo Rials are gentle demons. There is no way they would do something like that."

It's hard to keep a straight face after all that.

"Shit...... I can't get to the neighbouring country to meet the queen,if joke-like developments with wild demons happen."

The Philo Rials stop hiding and surround us. There are way too many to count. A bunch of Philo Rial eyes glowing in the darkness too. There are Philo Rial as far as the eye can see. The on earth is happening?

Maybe this is a territorial despite between Philo Rial. But Firo shouldn't be able to understand the concept of territory. Firo may be recognized as an extremely high ranked Philo Rial, did they come thinking of her as a menace? However, since Firo didn't give us a warning cry, this may be different. Or rather...... Did they come to scout Firo into their territory? There is a possibility that is happening. Alright, let's go with that.

"Firo, I hope you find happiness with these guys." "What are you saying suddenly,Naofumi-sama!" "Firo-chan is going to leave!?" "We can't help it. These guys came to pick up Firo." "Really!?" "Separating from Master? No~!"

Firo, don't you understand the situation? It's already too late. If we don't give up Firo here we'll be mobbed by a large amount of Philo Rials.

"Do your best for us, for these guys. Firo."

After this situation is solved I'll have to go buy a new Philo Rial. I hope the next one won't be so annoying.

"No~!"

While we were bantering.

"""Gua~!"""

A group of Philo Rials just to divided into two like that one scene from Moses and the Ten Commandments. what the hell?

"Gua~!"

One Philo Rial walks leisurely towards us. It is also pulling some luxurious carriage. ...... There are jewels fitted onto that carriage. I think I've seen some of those jewels before......Where was it? I suddenly look at the shield. There is a jewel that looks the same as those on the carriage.

"""Gua!"""

A group of Philo Rials salute and bows towards the Philo Rial that is pulling the carriage. Rattlerattle, the Philo Rial pulling the carriage stops before us.

"Wow...... that is cool. I'm jealous!"

Firo's eyes are sparkling as she watches the carriage. I hate it. It's such an upstart carriage. If I had the choice, I would rather not ride something like that.

"Gua!"

The rope that tied the Philo Rial to the wagon comes off and it steps forward. Another Philo Rial walks up to the rear.

"What's that? What's going to happen?" "Gueeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"

When the Philo Rial surrounding the carriage calls out, the surrounding plants start glowing green and wind arises.

"Ah......did they put up a barrier!?" "Barrier?"

Melty's voice is full of surprise.

"Yes. Naofumi, doesn't it look brighter? From a distance all you would see is fog."

I pay more attention to the group of Philo Rials. There doesn't seem to be anything like a dense fog.

"This is a high-class sanctuary type barrier." "What's that?" "There is a Forest of Illusion, according to legends, equipment of the old era heroes are said to be kept there; However, the fog of magic prevents all who approach." "You know quite a lot." "Mother likes stories about the Forest of Illusion. This fog resembles the one described in the stories. I'm surprised."

Does that mean? We can't escape from here even if we run?

"Will you be able to return if you enter the fog?......We seem to have set foot inside the sanctuary of Philo Rials."

Melty seems totally entranced. That reminds me, this fellow loves Philo Rials. Isn't this like a dream come true?

"Now's not the time for this!"

The plants shine until it's as bright as day. What on earth is happening? The Philo Rial that pulled the carriage starts to swell up, up the point where it's just a black silhouette. Huge...... The silhouette swells flabbily. There is probably a big chance that Firo will end up like that. At first it had the appearance of a normal Philo Rial, but now it's 6 meters tall. And...... it stops expanding when it reaches 9 meters. This figure is the same as Firo's demon form. The same as Philo Rial · Queen (Temporary) (Tl note: フィロリアル・クイーン(仮) not sure why there is a temp in the raws.)

"Wow~......Big"

I mutter, and Melty looks like she cannot contain her excitement. Compared to Firo's colour which is light pink and white, that Philo Rial · Queen is white and azure. A big difference would be a wing-like crown on top of it's head that Firo doesn't have.

"Kueeeeeeeee!"

With just it's voice, The vibrations could be felt to the bones.

"Yes.Yes. I understand."

Firo nods a few times and turns to us.

"Umm you see. It seems visiting in human form is impolite. she says."

Firo translates the words that it says. Oh, is it natural that you can communicate since you are from the same race?

"Because there is an ancient pledge and oath, I cannot speak with people easily. I hope you understand. She says." "......Well, that's fine. But what business do you have with us?" "Kueeeeeee!" "First let's have some self-introduction. I am the Queen of Philo Rials. My old name is Fitoria. She says." "Fitoria!? That's the name of the Philo Rial from the legends."

Meltly yells with an expression full of astonishment.

"Are you by any chance the Hero of the Shield? She says." "Ah, yeah......" "I apologize for the sudden visit. I have a little business here. She says." "Wh-what would that be?"

I have a pain in my neck from looking up at the big Philo Rial.

"Kueee" "Eh......No~"

Firo gives her a dirty look. What are they talking about?

"Kueee!" "Really!? All right. I understand." "What did you talk about?" "Umm you see. She wants to know Firo's ability , and she seems to want to fight Firo." "Just Firo?"

Fitoria nods at my question.

"You see. I think we will have a good fight." "Are you going to avoid killing each other?"

Fitoria nodded again. Although I was busy trying to meet the queen...... A different queen shows up.

"......Isn't it fine then?" "Kueeeee" "Thank you for listening to my request Hero of the Shield. She says."

What a troublesome conversation. you should talk from the start if you are capable of it. The Philo Rials surrounding us backs up when Fitoria expands her wings.

"Kueeee" "Hero's party should fall back too. She says." "Okay okay."

Raphtalia, Melty, and I went to the edge of the circle made by Philo Rials.

"Kueeeeeee!" "Here I go~"

Firo returns to her demon form and charges at Fitoria.

Chapter 66

Ahoge

"Ya!"

Firo attacks first. She jumps with all her might and reaches the belly of Fitoria's gigantic figure.

"Kue"

Fitora flaps her wings and dodges swiftly.

"Ha!"

While Firo was landing back on the ground, Fitoria slices at her with a wing.

"Oops!"

Firo barely avoids the wing by diving to the side.

"Firo-chan do you best!"

Melty loudly cheers her on.

"""Guaaaaaaaaaaa~!"""

The Philorials similarly support Fitoria with their cries.

"I will not lose~!"

Firo charges up to Fitoria.

"Kue!"

Fitoria tries to bat Firo away using her wings, but Firo dexterously uses the wing as a scaffold and jumps for her face.

"Wow! Amazing~!"

Firo's attack unfortunately ends in failure, but she calls out in admiration.

"Very fast. But I won't lose."

After taking a stance with her wings Firo begins preparing. Are you going to suddenly use your special ability?

"Yay, here it come~"

Firo's body becomes a blur. In the next moment, a loud wham could be heard......

"Kue"

At first glance, it seemed Fitora was slowly waving her wings up and down.

"Waaaaaaaa!"

Firo was blown into the air and knocked around. After being Forced to expand her wings to control the air flow, Firo lands.

"To think you would dodge Firo's trump card so easily-" "Kue"

Fitoria puts one of her wings on her waist and taunts Firo. To act in such a carefree attitude. Amazing. Brushing off Firo's ultimate attack just like that......

"As expected of the legendary Philorial."

Melty expresses her admiration. I agree. What can I say. Our combat expert Firo is being toyed with.

"How about this!"

Firo flaps her wings again.

"Firo commands the origin of power. Firo has read and deciphered a law of nature. Blow her away with a raging tornado!" "Tzuvait ・Tornado!" "What?"

To think Firo could use intermediate magic! I doubt she could teach me...... If you could have always used it, then you should have. We could have ran away from those heroes easily if that spell was used. The tornado brought forth from Firo's hands flies towards Fitoria-

"KueKueKueKueeeeeeeeeeeee" "Kueeeeeeeeeeeee!"

Firo's magic was enclosed and dissipated like it was never there.

"Counterbalance?"

Oh, that's a phenomenon that was described in the beginner class magic book. Interfering with magic. However, that is only possible if the user has sufficient power and is able to analyse the magic as it is cast. The proper magic system required varies every time. It is difficult because the magic cast to counterbalance must be from the proper system, and also must be cast right before the magic hits. It is easier to counterbalance high class magic than intermediate class magic due to longer cast times.

"Wow......Firo's magic is not effective either~"

Firo charges rapidly Fitoria again. Without delay Fitoria strikes at Firo with her massive wings.

"Ha!"

With a thud, Firo raised both her wings to catch the colossal attack

"Ugh......It's heavy......But"

After barely withstanding the attack, Firo kicks Fitora's wing away and jumps. As expected, Fitoria who had her wing kicked away was not in position to defend against Firo who flew up to her face. Thanks to coating herself with wind Firo's jumping power improved.

"Tei!"

Firo spun her whole body and unleashed a roundhouse kick at Fitoria's face.

It should have hit. Yet despite all that,

"Kue!"

Fitora was also coated with wind, and Firo was blown off into the sky. Basaa~! Still, Fitoria was slightly grazed and a feather was hit off.

"Kuee"

Fitora was watching the feather that Firo hit down with a smile. I noticed it. Fitoria still has a something besides magic and physical attacks. There is still something she is hiding. She hasn't moved one step either. Just how strong is she? Legendary Philorial. She certainly lives up to those words. Firo is being taken lightly. She has absolutely no chance of winning.

"Boo......"

Firo is whining with an ill-humoured expression.

"I will not lose!"

All of Firo's feathers start to stand on end.

"Suuuuu......"

She takes a giant breath.I see, Firo is absorbing the surrounding magic. Such a thing is possible? And for nearly 30 seconds she does not move.

"Ok---"

Firo flaps her wings. Everyone can see that wind magic is being condensed behind her. This is most likely Firo's strongest finisher. The prerequisite is too severe. It's not usable in actual combat.

"Here it comes!"

Firo flies at Fitoria with the speed of a bullet. She rotates her beak, by dashing off the ground and flying low. This attack is the fastest by far. Usually Firo's attacks consist of basic kicking and pecking. What can I say. This attack resembles the finisher from an air-plane shaped robot in a strategy game. (Tl note: An anon kindly informed me of what this was referencing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxkzaMVj2UE#t=140 )

"Kue!?"

Even Fitoria widened her eyes in surprise. With a large step, Firotia takes a step back and...... It was over.

Fitoria stretched both her wings and her expression changed, her posture resembled one killing bugs with both hands, and squishes Firo.

"Kyu......"

When Fitoria opens her wings and a knocked-out Firo falls down.

"Firo-chan!" """Guaaaaaaaa!"""

The Philorials start cheering. We follow after Melty who rushes out first.

"Are you okay?" "Yup......ah......"

As Melty rushes up to Firo to check on her, Firo looks up at me. After looking around restlessly I look down at her.

"Firo lost." "But you did great.You fought well against the Queen of Philorials." "She wasn't even trying, Firo couldn't hit her at all."

As Firo was sulking Firotia called with KueKue.

"What are you giving me?"

Oh, we're going to receive something?

"KueKue" "I pass? Pass what?"

Fitoria pulls off a single piece of her beautiful feather crown and gives it to Firo. Suddenly, the feather glows and is attaches itself to Firo's head. Then it splits and disperses...... On Firo's head is now an ahoge bouncing around.

"......"

Raphtalia and I are left speechless. What just happened?What was that a reward?

"Eh?" "Firo-chan is so cute!"

Melty is excitedly admiring Firo while the bird in question doesn't understand what is going on.

"Did something happen?" "Umm......"

When I point on top of her, Firo timidly touches her head.

"Something strange grew! No~!"

Buchin! Eh!? She yanked it out with all her might.

"It hurts~!"

Firo is delighted about getting rid of the ahoge, but is also in pain. Pyokon! However, from where it was pulled out another ahoge appears.

"It grew again!" "Ehh!?"

With watery eyes Firo sadly gave up on removing the ahoge after pulling it out several times. Well, the ahoge isn't that bad.

"Kue Kue" "You're terrible~!" "What did she say?" "Give up on pulling it because it will always grow back." "Kue Kue" "Eh......So its become like that......"

Firo looks at Fitoria's feather crown. What on earth did this legendary Philorial pass down to Firo? I swiftly check Firo's status screen.

......Her abilities have improved from before.

Perhaps, this is divine protection or something like a correction ability. It's a good reward for Firo who is unable to level up.

"Kue Kue"

Fitora points at me and beckons me with a Kui Kui.

"It's a gift for master." "I don't need an ahoge." "Ahoge?"

I'd rather not explain. If I tell her she'll annoy me about it.

"Kue Kue" "She said it's even better." "Hmmm......"

I don't know what it is, but I hope it's nothing strange. I can't really refuse, so I approach.

"Kue Kue"

Fitoria points at my shield and gestures upwards.

"Like this?"

I lift up my shield. Fitoria pulls out another crown feather and puts it on the shield. The shield has a huge reaction and absorbs it.

All of the the Philorial series has been unsealed.

"What?"

I check the skill tree and confirm that all of the Philorial shields are lit up and active. Most of them are basic ability and equipment bonuses, there are Speed Ups too, Philorial ability correction, Growth Correction (Big Middle Small), Growth○○Correction (Big Middle Small) there are also shields received that I cannot wear. What stands out is, Riding ability Up (Big Middle Small). However, there are a lot of shields I cannot use since my level is insufficient. It is nice to have unlocked all the Philo Rial shields though.

"I am extremely grateful." "Kue Kue"

Fitoria nodded while smiling. I was given quite an amazing reward. Are the powers of Philorials condensed into that feather? This is also very helpful since Firo cannot Level.

That reminds me, Melty said that in the legends the Queen of Philorials fought together with heroes. Is Fitoria the origin of the legend of the holy bird? Does that mean Fitoriea gave me her feather because she understands how the hero's weapon works?

"Kue" "I have finished my business here so I will take my leave." "Ah, Umm......"

Melty timidly calls out to Fitoria.

"Kue?" "Please shake my hand!"

It is Melty's cherished wish to meet and befriend the legendary Philorial so she pleas excitedly. For a handshake...... Are you meeting an idol or an athlete?

"Kue Kue"

Fitoria was dumbfounded for a few seconds before she stroked melty's head with her large wings. And she was embraced kindly with a smile. Melty sunk quite deep into Fitoria's bossom.

"Wow......"

It seems Melty has also received a large service and was placed on top of Fitoria's head.

"So high!"

Melty is extremely thrilled. Fitoria tells us to get back, and as we fall back. She expands to twice her size......18 meters. That's as big as a building already.

"This is amazing!"

Melty's voice could be heard in the distance. Isn't that a bit too high? Can this still be considered a Philorial? Just how much can it grow? No, this form or it's 9 meter form should be it's orignal size, she is probably transforming. ......Will Firo become that big too? I look at Firo suspiciously.

"What's up?" "Nothing."

If you seriously grow that big......it'll be quite a problem. To sustain that size the food expense would be astronomical. Fitoria lives in the wild. Moreover, she's the genuine queen of the group. In those conditions eating regardless of amount would be fine. But Firo is a pet Philorial. I have to take care of her. Should I reuse the Bio Plants?

After Melty and Fitoria finished played, Fitoria changed back into form of a usual Philorial that pulled the luxurious carriage and shook Melt's hand.

"You see. I have an old oath, I can only say words of parting to humans." "I see."

I wonder if this is just courtesy.

"See ya-" "Eh!?"

That voice is the same as Firo's! That bird! I mean she can even speak in the figure of a normal Philorial? The Philorials surrounding us scattered when Firoria disappeared.

"Ha......"

Melty sighed while seemingly enchanted.

"That was dreamlike......" "It was a good dream."

I feel that was a monster that is capable of Armageddon. To effortlessly toy with Firo who has the strength to kick around a dragon. Anyway, I am looking forward to how much Firo has powered up. Our journey South West continues.

Chapter 67

Jungle

"There's a village just south west of here."

Two days after the battle of monsters with Firo. We are approaching the village where Motoyasu caused the plant problem. By the way, the Ability correction from the Philorial Shield series takes precedence over the other equipment bonuses. It is necessary to use any abilities that will help in combat since Raphtalia and Firo cannot level up. The lower level Philorial shields finished granting their equipment bonuses after an hour or so.

Of course, this is a very generous gift, and at this point I'll take anything. In the first place, releasing all the Philorial Series was more than what I could have hoped for. furthermore Firo's speed became even faster due to the effects. Well, this is great. We were very lucky......

The problem is that the village south west of us has become a dense jungle again.

"This is my fault......" "Probably."

We advance through the flourishing forest by pushing aside plants. Metly was surprised to know that this was my fault. To think the Bio Plant seed I gave to the villagers turned them back to square one...... I don't have the right to judge Motoyasu.

"There are no strange demons."

Firo mutters while investigation the neighbourhood.

"I see."

Perhaps the changes I made are more powerful than I thought. While pushing through the foliage we encounter a villager.

"Ah, Hero of the Shield-sama."

What should we do? Escape? No, I hear that a lot of villagers do not believe I did the things that warranted that bounty. If that wasn't the case we would have been reported by those villages in the beginning-

"Thanks to Hero of the Shield-sama we can work in peace." "Pardon?"

I question the villager as I look around.

"This?" "Yes, can't you tell this is already an agricultural area?" "All I see is a dense forest." "We developed a large scale farming business thanks to the seed that Hero of the Shield-sama gave us."

The villager proudly points around while saying so. There are bright red fruit-like tomatoes hanging off a bunch of plants.

"The only drawback is that only the same fruit is growing, but it has become a village specialty already." "you guys are fast."

Hasn't it only been a month? That is quite amazing.

"Then there have been no problems at all?" "Nope." "Then......isn't it fine?"

The villager smiles wryly at my answer. Long ago, the creator of the Bio Plant may have wished for this. Now, his dream is being realized in front of my eyes. ......It really is quite a spectacle.

"So where is Hero of the Shield-sama heading to? Isn't Silt Welt in the opposite direction?" "Well, we are escaping this way."

I am troubled as to whether or not I can tell the villager. So I'll just give him a vague answer.

"Hah......Seems to be quite serious." "It is definitely not easy."

Well it's not their problem.

"Don't worry we will not inform any of the soldiers from the castle." "Leaving aside whether or not that is true, you have my thanks."

Gu......

"Firo is hungry"

Firo hungrily looks at the growing tomatoes. That reminds me, a lot of Firo's food supply came from here.

"Go ahead."

The villager points towards the big fruits and tells Firo to eat.

"Yay~"

We also get some fruits while Firo begins gorging down. These tomatoes have a subtle mandarin orange taste to them...... It is delicious, but I feel it is a little lacking. Raphtalia and Melty eat while exclaiming their deliciousness though.

While resting and eating lunch, several villagers come and I give them some food that I cooked.

"I am grateful, in various ways." "Don't worry about it." "For the time being...... be careful."

I was indirectly warned about a dangerous plant.

"I understand."

We finish our meal like this.

"See you." "Yup. I pray that Hero of the Shield-sama can prove your innocence."

We cross the dense forest for the border. 50 meters after parting with the villagers we are caught by a magical cage.

"Kya!?" "What's this?" "Wh-what is going on?"

It's about 40 meters in every dimension. A cage comprised of lightning. Is this......magic? Or is it some trap? Did the villagers set us up? So that they could capture us here!?

"T-Trouble! Hero of the Shield-sama is being attacked by someone-!"

Villagers that were watching yelled towards the village and it gets louder. This attack.....It's not from them?

"I finally caught up, Naofumi!" "You......Motoyasu!"

Motoyasu's party appears after pushing aside the dense forest. Did you hide yourselves in the jungle? that must have been difficult.

"Naofumi, you won't be able to escape from this magical instrument [Thunder Cage]"

Melty inspects the cage and informs me.

"This is a setting trap, it must have been used by someone experienced." "What is the purpose of this trap?" "Never letting whatever it captures free."

I see, so this trap was used because we always rely on Firo's leg strength to escape.

"Maybe I can break it, but it will take some time." "You know a method to definitely remove this trap?" "If you an get the key away from the user......"

I consider for a moment, stare at Motoyasu, and then Firo.

"Are we going to fight?" "That seems to be the case."

Rapthalia gets down from Firo and takes up a stance with her sword.

"Raphtalia, you don't have armour. Fall back." "But......" "Can Firo fight?" "Yeah."

Motoyasu is vulnerable to any beautiful girls. So far he has been treated roughly by Firo. Possibly......

"Melty can you remove the cage?" "I can try......But don't expect anything." "Raphtalia, while we fight protect Melty." "Okay!" "I'll solve this brainwashing problem, with three people."

Seriously, who in their right mind would believe a shield has the power to brainwash. I honestly honestly think that the ones framing me are the ones capable of brainwashing.

However, this guy is one of the Heroes referred to by the holy weapons manual. Companion's thoughts = Not suspecting a Companion. There is also the bitch and trash king supporting this guy. I would be a fool to really believe this guy to be friendly.

"Motoyasu-sama, please save my younger sister from the brainwashing of the devil of the shield."

Hey bitch, stop adding oil to the fire.

"Hero of the shield-sama! And......Spear......"

A villager calls towards us from outside the cage. The villager looks at Motoyasu with a troubled expression. I can easily imagine the reason. For the cause of the village's disaster to appear again, even if he is one of the three heroes it wouldn't be pleasant.

"You guys are also brainwashed too."

Motoyasu, that guy is absolutely infatuated with himself. He looks me in the eye and prepares his spear.

"I won't be defeated like last time." "...... What's with those lines."

I was summoned to a different world, and on the second day was already being looked down upon by Motoyasu. Wouldn't it be fun to retaliate here? I change the Chimeric Viper Shield and take a stance against Motoyasu. Motoyasu's companions, that bitch and two other woman. ......There should have been another man.......But it's just Motoyasu. Did he throw away the unnecessary element in his harem? We face each other with Firo standing in front of me, Melty trying to release the trap, and Raphtalia protecting her.

"What will win if the Spear and Shield fight?...... Of course it'll be me!"

Motoyasu declares while smiling full of conviction.

"Don't be a coward this time. Are you going to cheat again? Know your place, clown!"

Motoyasu was about to say something, but stops immediately. It seems words have become unnecessary. Very well. I am different from before. Melty cannot fight, but I have Raphtalia and Firo. In this situation where I can utilize the shield to it's full potential, I will not lose.

Now......Let's see who is stronger!

""Uoooooooooooooh!""

We both step forwards and charge towards each other.

Chapter 68

Battle Between Shield and Spear

"Firo, You take Motoyasu-"

I give Firo instructions as the battle begins. Motoyasu cannot lay a hand on women. Especially Firo, Motoyasu even hesitates to point his spear at her. Even if Motoyasu was able to attack Firo properly,she would be able to stop the spear.

"I am the queen who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. Rain flames upon my enemies!" "Tzuvait ・Fire Squall!"

The arrogant bitch sings an aria and casts Fire system magic.

"Naofumi! Firo-chan!"

"I am one who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. Hinder the rain of flames that pours on us!" "Anti ・Tzuvait ・Fire Squall!"

Melty instantly counterbalances the intermediate magic that the bitch chants before going back to work on the cage. However, she could not perfectly counterbalance it and the rain of fire still poured towards us. Fortunately, it only hit Firo and I who were in front. The jungle is set ablaze. The area nearby instantly becomes a sea of flames. Many villagers start to panic as the fire spreads.

"I will not forgive you for kicking Motoyasu-sama so many times."

The bitch is casting magic towards us seriously. Melty ise good at magic, but she is pretty good too. There is a big difference between the bitch and Melty known as Levels, due to her being in Motoyasu's party.

"Firo, Are you okay!?" "Yep. I'm fine-"

Firo doesn't seem affected by the rain of fire. Well...... during the first wave I also barely felt anything when the knights barraged the area with magic. But the biggest problem now is the surrounding Bio plants which have been set ablaze. What kind of dumbass uses fire magic inside a jungle? Are you even thinking about your surroundings?

"I am one who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. Bless us with the rain we eagerly long for!" "Tzuvait ・Squall!"

Melty directs her magic towards the jungle while Raphtalia protects her.

"Mein, Thank you."

Motoyasu who received the bitch's help shows his gratitude by giving her a thumbs up. Everything this guy does is infuriating.

"Now! Motoyasu-sama please concentrate onto the devil of the shield! We'll hold that damned bird back with magic!"

Under bitch's comand Motoyasu's subordinates begins to chant.

"Here I come-!"

Firo ignores the chanting and charges straight at Motoyasu.

"Wait Firo--"

I don't understand what they are doing, but charging recklessly is not going to help!

"Wing ・Tackle!"

Firo tries to tackle Motoyasu with her giant body coated in wind.

"Fube---"

As a result, Firo is blown off while spinning, she unfurls her wings to make a landing.

"That was surprising. But, here I go!"

Firo charges at Motoyasu again without learning her lesson. However, I have no idea as to what magic it was that Blew Firo off again. This is not a feasible combat strategy. While Firo is being pinned down, Motoyasu rushes at me--

"Eat this Naofumi! Meteor Spear!"

Motoyasu's spear shines brilliantly as shouts and leaps. The energy condenses to cover his spear as it heads towards me.

"Guu......!?"

I receive the attack with the thickest part of my shield. Through the shield I receive a heavy blow that affects my whole body. I'm guessing that was a finisher move. Well, there is no reason to hold back in a real fight. All the bones in my body groan under the pressure. I think this is the worst attack yet. Glass's attack wasn't as heavy thanks to the shield of anger.

"How's that! There's still more! Disorder Piercing! Rising Dragon Spear!" (Tl note: SHORYUSPEAR)

Motoyasu unleashes his skills continuously. I fire the special ability of the Chimeric Viper Shield, Snake's poison fang. Shit...... It's not effective because his level is too high! An intense pain could be felt from the attack that I failed to block. I understand that I'm bleeding even without looking. Recover magic..... But Motoyasu won't give me the room to heal.

"Shield Prison!"

I trap Motoyasu within a cage of shields.

"Giant Windmill!"

Motoyasu swings his spear around like a baton, and cuts down the shields that I summon. Damn...... His offensive power has already greatly exceeded my defensive power. Whenever a cool down is off I cast a skill. As expected there is no chance to win in a defensive fight. What do I do...... Firo can't even get close to Motoyasu thanks to the bitch and her subordinates.

"Firo commands the origin of power. Firo has read and deciphered a law of nature. Blow her away with a raging tornado!" "Tzuvait ・Tornado!"

"I am the queen who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. The Tornado shall disperse and disappear!" ""I am one who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. The Tornado shall disperse and disappear!"" """Anti ・Tzuvait ・Tornado!"

The magic that Firo casts overpowers the counterbalancing of three people and breaks through, but it loses a lot of power.

"Yaay, Here I go~" "Wing ・Tackle!"

Firo tries to take advantage of the situation and charges Motoyasu immediately. but, she is blown off again. This is......looking bleak. It seems those three are well prepared against Firo, and have taken measures in advance.

Motoyasu you bastard, I really want to kill you. Fortunately Raphtalia and Melty were excluded as targets. Are they looking down on use because we lack the power to kill them? Perhaps if Raphtalia joined the fight, and Firo was not being suppressed. It is evident that it requires three people, and they are barely stopping Firo.

Melty's speciality is magic. It would be possible to counterbalance, but her Level is too low. I told Raphtalia not to step in because of her lack of armour. No wait, if I approach together with Firo I should be able to hold back their magic. At this point both bitch's magical power and my physical strength is starting to decline.

"Hm!?"

Bitch and her lackeys drink something. Is that possibly a potion that recovers magical power? Dangerous......I don't think we can hold out until they run out of potions.

"What a tough guy. Thanks to the shield's skills he will not to fall down......"

Motoyasu seems to be out of breath as he continues using skills. I have also received considerable damage! I feel blood dripping from my body.

"I received good information and gotten strong in a different way."

So far, after coming to this world, everything has been developed through trail and error. I did not choose the means of becoming strong. Avariciously, I stacked equipment bonuses of unsealed shields. Nonetheless......I am still unable to win?

"Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" "What's going on!?"

Motoyasu got distracted. One of his companions cried out. I follow Motoyasu's line of sight and check. One of Motoyasu's companions had a sword piercing her shoulder from behind. Melty was considered too weak, and since Raphtalia was on defence she was ignored.

"You are only paying attention to Firo, there are too many openings!"

Raphtalia's figure suddenly appears.

"You!"

After her companion was stabbed, the bitch brandishes her sword and slashes.

"Hide ・Mirage"

When Raphtalia was about to be stabbed she disappeared like smoke. Raphtalia used concealment magic that uses a magic sword skill to produce a phantom, hence Hide ・Mirage. It appears to be concealment magic that utilizes illusions.

"Do not get carried away with mere illusion magic!"

"I am the queen who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. Cut down the illusions!" "Wind Flasher!"

The illusion magic Raphtalia was using to hide disappears. Raphtalia emerged from the mist that the wind cut down.

"There!"

The bitch thrusts towards Raphtalia. Raphtalia......is receiving the attack!? Rapthalia has no armour. She's wearing villager clothes. Bitch's sword is probably of a high quality. If something happens then we are finished. There is no time to choose the means. Shield of Anger! With the thought of losing Raphtalia I activate the Curse Series Shield.

"Ah, Wait!" "Uoooooooooooooo!"

Make it in time......Make it in time......Make it in timeeeeeeeeeeee! The world instantly slows down. While my mind was being eroded I cast my skills.

"Air Strike Shield! Second Shield!"

Two shields appear between Raphtalia and the sword With a clang, bitch's sword was repelled.

"Haa......Haa......"

I made it in time, somehow.

"Eat this!"

Motoyasu aims his skill at me who sighed in relief. If I'm not mistaken, those are the movements for the Meteor Spear. It seems while using the Curse Series, not only is my body enhanced, but also my kinetic vision. I powerfully grasp the the shining spear head.

"Im-Impossible! Grabbing the Meteor Spear!?"

"You retard, you just used that skill a while ago! What kind of idiot would forget!? Fool!"

The counter effect of the shield of anger is based on the attack's strength. Self Curse Burning is activated. The strength of this flame is influenced by my anger. I was almost consumed by rage when I saw Raphtalia about to be stabbed. This generated an enormous amount of power.

"Uwaaaaah!"

Motoyasu's whole body was covered in black flames, and he was rolling around in pain. Guu......If I don't change shield I'll forget myself in anger.

"Not yet!"

The bitch hasn't learnt her lesson yet and tried to stab Raphtalia again. Shit...... Cooldown time! They are just about to end!

"Shield---"

Not in time! Raphtalia was...... The bitch's assassin's knife hits Raphtalia.

"Ahahahahaha, trying to deft me......What!?"

Raphtalia disappears and all that's left is an after-image.

"Your magical power was not enough to completely nullify my illusion magic. Now it's my turn!"

Chapter 69

Judgement

Raphtalia appears behind the bitch and slashes. Clang! The bitch barely blocks Raphtalia's sword with her sword by turning around. There was probably another illusion piled upon the one that was dispelled.

"You're just a pebble on the side of the road!" "To treat others as pebbles...... Is that that attitude of one meant to rule!?"

Raphtalia and bitch continue their game of cat and mouse while also insulting each other. Bitch's sword must have been expensive. However, she is unable to break Raphtalia's sword. I don't know if it's simply because Raphtalia's ability exceeds hers, I have to hurry and help...

"I will not collapse just yet!"

Motoyasu who was on the ground from Self-Burning Curse gets up with great difficulty and is barely able to stand in front of me.

"You think you can stop me with these kind of burns? I will not acknowledge it!"

Although Motoyasu has taken considerable damage from Self Curse Burning, he continues on without consideration for his body. His steps are a little unsteady.

"This amount of damage is nothing that can't be fixed with recovery magic." "Do you have someone who can apply it?"

I do not know what kind of magic Motoyasu uses. When I look at his companions I see the one that wasn't stabbed desperately using recover magic. Raphtalia and the bitch are still engaging each other in close combat, neither of them are backing off.

"Don't forget about Firo either~!" "Firo!? Are you okay?"

Firo should have been induced into a state of frenzy when I took out the shield of anger. But she's showing no signs of losing her mind. After the shield of anger's second form shield of anger 2 was unlocked, it's power increased without changing to that form. I am also able to send my companions into a frenzy with the angry dragon's roar. Maybe that's why I can stop the shield of anger 1 from from sending Firo out of control.

"Whats up?"

When I look at Firo's head...... her ahoge is glowing.

"Somehow my body has become extremely light"

Black flames are covering Firo, her white limbs are being dyed black. Firo's mind doesn't seem to be eroded though...... It seems the reward from the Queen of Philorials is amazing.

"I am one who commands the origin of power. I have read and deciphered a law of nature. Cure this person!" "Al ・Tzuvait ・Heal!"

Motoyasu's companion casts healing magic him after a long chant. Range recovery, they had such a hand available?

"You saved me!"

But......Motoyasu, you have made one big miscalculation. The light of recovery falls onto Motoyasu and his group to heal.

"Alright......Huh?"

The recovery magic that Motoyasu was waiting for barely did anything for him. Motoyasu tilted his neck looking puzzled.

"Did you think you could recover completely with just one cast? I'm sorry to disappoint you. I have my own hand to prevent that."

This is funny, the side effect of Self-Burning Curse slows down healing. His long awaited recovery magic barely did anything.

"I think the outcome is decided."

His companions turn towards Raphtalia and starts chanting magic.

"Firo"

I give instructions to support Raphtalia.

"Okay~!"

Firo charges even faster than earlier. As Firo approaches Raphtalia who is preparing to defend with her sword, both Raphtalia and the bitch back off to start preparing magic.

"Not yet!"

Without learning his lesson Motoyasu tries to stab me with his spear.

"Air Strike Javelin!"

A thrown spear flies towards me.

"Like that would work!"

I catch the flying spear. Gakin! Sounds of metal clashing rings out when I grab the spear. When I completely stop the spear, it disappears from my hand and reappears in Motoyasu's. Throwing skills...... Certainly Self Curse Burning is ineffective at a long distance. If you are a gamer you would understand after seeing it once.

"I won't......I won't lose here! If I lose then princess Melty, Raphtalia-chan, and Firo-chan will all become tools for the devil of the shield."

...... In a way coming all the way here believing in justice in itself is somewhat praiseworthy. But I am treated as the villain. No way, In Motoyasu's eyes am I a mid-boss within a game? What an unpleasant treatment. Who is a boss character.

"I will absolutely help you!" "A buffoon of a womaniser coming here, it's too pathetic."

Don't you understand you're the one being brainwashed? It's such a waste to not be directing your passion somewhere more productive......

"Damn......"

He doesn't even respond to my remark. His Companions are being trampled on by Firo. Well, his unyielding will is certainly Hero-like. However, if you insist of blindly following justice like that, then there is no saving you.

"Give it up, you cannot beat us."

You don't even know your allies are the ones behind this. I look at Melty anxiously while thinking about what's to do next. Victory or defeat is also decided on whether or not the cage can be destroyed. It is admirable that she can act so bravely knowing her own older sister is trying to have her assassinated.

......Killing intent surges within me. But if I murder anyone here my innocence will never be proven. If I murder anyone, I will be no different than that trash who is trying to frame me. I refuse to become an existence similar to trash. To even sacrifice your own flesh and blood without hesitation. Is that really alright? No, I will prove my innocence!

"Not yet......I haven't lost yeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeet!"

Motoyasu suicidally charges me, it's like he;s trying to die an honourable death. It will be deicide with the next move-

right before a decide a foreign sound echoes. Applause is heard from a strange place.

"Iya~...... as expected of the spear, truly a strong will. It was a good show."

The area is filled with magical pressure. All of Firo's feathers stand on end as she covers Rapthalia.

"Eh--" "Mel-chan!' "Kyaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" "Uwaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" "I-I am a princess! how dare you treat me with so impolitely--" "Firo-cha--fube!"

And without any hesistation,everyone including Bitch and Motoyasu were kicked towards me, freely using high-speed magic Firo appears in front of me Everyone, whether friend or foe is gathered together at my feet by Firo.

"Master! We'll defend with everything!" "What's happening Sudden-" "Hurry up! Something big is about to come!" "Damn! I know!"

While Firo was watching with a threatening attitude, while I use Shield Prison, Air Strike Shield, and Second Shield. Just as the shields appear a huge pillar of light poured down on us from the sky.

"Guu......"

It was a heavy attack that shook my body to it's core I endure it while chanting Fast Heal. Air Strike Shield and Second Shield are blown away immediately, and Shield Prison is barely holding up. As the shield is protecting everyone from the sky a Bakin sound could be heard. The Prison is destroyed and the light falls onto me. My shield is somehow blocking the thick beam of light. As I was about to slip Firo wraps her wings around me and supports me.

"Uguguguuuuuuuuuu......"

The light reduces my physical strength.

"A little more......It's over!"

The light suddenly vanishes but I still hold my shield ready. Firo stands up and covers everyone with her wings. The area around us......It's all scorched-earth. It looks like a meteor fell and we were at it's epicentre. There were some villagers groaning outside the crater that was part of the aftermath of the magic the enemy cast. It was horrible.

"Wh-What on earth......" "Oh my what's this? To think the devil of the shield could withstand the High class synthesis magic [Judgement] and remain calm."

When I look towards the voice, what greeted me was the smiling face of the priest back in the church of castle town. Followed by a dozen church officials, with some knights mixed in.

"You.....!"

Motoyasu looks at the priest in frustration. They're not your reinforcements? No wait, Motoyasu would have been caught up in that blow as well. This is......

"Oh dear oh dear, How could I forget to introduce myself. I am the pope of the Church of Three Heroes."

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