Warning: The following piece of literature contains heavy spoilers for the Japanese Web Novel, known as Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari. Proceed to read with caution
Disclaimer: Tate no Yuusha no Nariagari is the property of Aneko Kusagi, Aiya Kyuu, MF Books, and Yen Press. Please support the official release
BITCH!
Overwhelmed by my emotions, I glared at the vixen with immense bloodlust. My muscles tensed, readying to go into a raging rampage, while my vision began to blur as thoughts of murder and bloodshed filled my mind. Adrenaline and strength spread through my lv. 160 body, spurring me to act. I gripped my sword and began to draw it before my conscience returns to stop me.
Calm down, Ren. Stay cool, don't let your emotions control you. Rage will only blind you.
Listening to my sense of reason, I barely restrain myself from immediately charging at the witch. That's right, I should stay calm and logically analyze the most efficient way to slaughter Bitch and rid the world of a great evil. If I just attack blindly, there might be some unwanted consequences, so I should carefully plan out how to cut her into bits.
Let's see… Right now, we were in a room filled with people, so I can't use any large AOE attacks like Thunder Sword or Hundred Sword. Even Meteor Sword's range is too large as I'd end up hitting all of the innocent woman around her. The most efficient way would simply be dashing while no one was paying attention and stab her right through her chest, piercing that black heart of hers. Alright, planning done, let's go.
"Is everything alright, Hero of the Sword-sama?" (Fauly)
"Eh?" (Ren)
Just before I launched my ultimate attack of Wrath and Justice, Fauly addressed me with a concerned tone. Quickly glancing around, I confirmed that Fauly was the only paying attention to me while everyone else was watching the scene involving Naofumi.
Luckily though, Fauly's question brought me to my actual senses and I immediately relaxed my body. With only a moment of hesitation, I released my grip on my sword. Slowly, my bloodlust is quelled with an elongated breath.
That's right. While killing Bitch as soon as possible would be best for the world, it'd only make things bad for me. I'd just be a criminal that slayed an innocent woman frivolously and turn into a fugitive. As much as it pains me, I can't kill Bitch right now, if I want happiness as well. The optimal situation would be to catch her in the middle of doing something evil, apprehend her, and become the hero that captured the witch.
Either way, I was thankful for Fauly stopping me, and turned towards him.
"Yeah, I'm fine. Th-thank you… for your concern." (Ren)
"Ah… no, I'm sorry for bothering you, Hero of the Sword-sama." (Fauly)
In response to my response and warm smile, Fauly timidly turned back to the scene. Was he being bashful? Either way, I really do owe him for stopping me, even if he did it unintentionally.
Once, I fully regained my composure, I glanced back at Naofumi and see that Bitch was now standing next to him, with an innocent smile. It seems like she had been happily accepted as Naofumi's team member while I wasn't looking. Speaking of which, her current name isn't Bitch right? What was it again? Ma… ma… Melted? Something along those lines.
"Are there any others willing to go to Naofumi's side?" (King)
"…."
"…"
"…"
Damn, that silence hurt. I could feel the tumbleweeds coming up and punching Naofumi in the gut. Not a single person even twitched at the question.
The King sighed and turned to Naofumi with pitying eyes.
"Very well. Naofumi, from this point on you are to scout suitable companions on your own and bolster your ranks. Because of these decidedly unique circumstances, I will make a special exception just this once and increase your aid for the month over that of the other Heroes." (King)
"Y-Yes, Your Majesty!" (Naofumi)
At the offer of extra funds, Naofumi's eyes lit up while Itsuki and Motoyasu turned a little bitter.
At the king's signal, some servants walked up, holding heavy, jingling moneybags and handed them out to the heroes. Naofumi received 800 silver while Itsuki, Motoyasu, and I were given 600. I took the moneybag and its contents inside with mixed feelings. To me at this point, 600 silver didn't seem like that much, not when I was used to spending absurd amounts of gold on top-notch equipment, but I suppose it's a very generous amount for a bunch of beginning adventurers. I was already the strongest thing in the universe at this point (exaggeration), so I didn't really need it. I suppose I'll invest in my comrade's equipment, instead.
Once the money was handed out, everyone unanimously decided to start heading out. As I led my comrades out of the audience chamber, I took a good look at Naofumi happily walking out with Bitch. My motivation to beat her down grew but I held it in. No matter what, I could not let her get away with any of her vile schemes. First opportunity, I'd catch her and bring her to justice.
If I remember correctly, her very first act of evil was framing Naofumi with rape and stealing his stuff, right? Wait, wasn't that tonight? Damn, that bitch works fast.
I privately clench my fist in determination. I'd act tonight and stop her. I will not let her succeed!
That said, I still have a whole day before the boss fight. I shouldn't waste it. With that in mind, I brought my party to a rather empty section of the castle to start self-introductions.
"Ah, hello, everyone. My name is Amaki Ren, the Hero of the Sword. It is… my pleasure to be fighting with you all. Let us combat the wave together." (Ren)
"The pleasure is all mine." (Bakter)
"It is an honor to be fighting with you, Hero of the Sword-sama." (Fauly)
"Same." (Terishia)
"Ha ha, nice to meet you." (Other comrade)
Fortunately, it seems that my introduction was well-received. Looks like it won't be too hard to get along with everyone.
"I'd like to know a little bit about each of you, if you don't mind. Could you all introduce yourselves?" (Ren)
Upon my suggestion, the group looked at each other for a second and nodded. The first one to step up and introduce himself was Bakter.
"My name is Bakter Fohlguard. I was a knight under the royal army when I was offered the opportunity to become a hero's companion. My weapon of choice is the sword and shield. I'm looking forward to saving the world with you all." (Bakter)
Bakter, Knight, an amiable older brother type.
He was dressed in full armour and was quite buff. Tough hardened muscle rippled hair underneath his protective gear, and a hazardous scar ran across his left cheek. Despite that, he gave off a very friendly, easy-going atmosphere. His smile had a relaxing feel, while his build and kind nature made people trust him in battle. A very reliable person, overall.
"Um… I'm Fauly Savill. I'm a magician that specializes in offensive magic. My specialty is water and ice magic, but I'm also versed in lightning and fire attacks. I'm not that powerful, but I try to make up for that with hard work. Not that, I'm saying that I'm talentless but I… uh… uh… Anyways, it's a privilege for a lowly mage like me to be working with you all. I'll do my best!" (Fauly)
Fauly, Magician, a timid but energetic youth.
He was clad in a black, magicians robe, and carried around a wooden staff. Under his wizard's hat, I could see neck-length blue hair. His facial features were young and boyish, making him seem very childish overall. However, his eyes had fire in them, though his passive nature didn't show it. He had definite potential. I wonder how old he is, though. He couldn't be younger than me… could he?
"Ah, I guess I'm next. Sorry for disappointing but I don't have anything special. Name's Conner Drayton. I come from a small village north-east, where my family lives right now. Peque Village, you've probably never heard of it. Anyways, I'm just a normal adventurer who's decent at using a spear. Pretty pumped to save the world with y'all." (Conner)
Conner, Spear-user, the easy-going, lax type.
He wore a basic adventurer's leather armour, perhaps the best he could afford. A unique red headband covered his messy, light brown hair. He was rather handsome but not to the point where girls would be drooling over him. His weapon was a long, black spear that rested gently in his hands. Out of all the companions, he was the only one that wasn't with me during the battle with the Spirit Turtle. He must've left but whether that was because I chased him out for being useless or out of his own volition wasn't too clear to my fuzzy memory. To be honest, my recollection of him is pretty vague, though I do somewhat recall partying with him. That aside, he was a pretty cool fellow. I'd like to get to know him a little better.
"I'm last. My name is Terishia Coterel. I'm also a mage but I specialize in support magic, with a little knowledge in apothecary. I also am experienced in knife fighting should the need arise, but I'd prefer to be in the backline. That is all." (Terishia)
Terishia, Support Mage, the straight-lace, serious type.
She was dressed in a green tunic and brown cloak, with a belt that held several pouches and a knife sheath. She didn't have a staff, unlike Fauly, but it wasn't really needed as magic doesn't actually require one. Her features were decently attractive, and she could be considered cute, but her deadpan face and cold business-lady like attitude turned others away. I don't really have much to comment about her. I expect that her serious attitude will prove reliable in the future though. Considering she came to me, instead of Motoyasu, I assume she isn't a sucker for pretty boys. Then again, I could be considered a bishounen too… Am I her type? No, that's not worth thinking about.
Everything here seemed like good people. I could definitely rely on them for future events. This time around, I'd really like to spend some time getting to know them all, and becoming real comrades.
"I'm happy to be fighting alongside you all, Bakter, Fauly, Conner, and Terishia. I'm expecting good results from everyone." (Ren)
"Leave it to us." (Bakter)
"Got it." (Conner)
"Understood." (Terishia)
"Yes, sir, Hero of the Sword-sama." (Fauly)
In response to his reply, I turned to Fauly with an uneasy expression.
"Um… this isn't too important but… isn't Hero of the Sword-sama a little long and formal. Just Ren, will do…" (Ren)
"Ah, right. Understood, Ren-sama!" (Fauly)
"No, the sama's a bit…" (Ren)
I scratched my head at Fauly's way of address but decided to just give up on that. He'll drop the honorifics once we get to know each other better… right?
"Ren-sama, may I ask what our first task on the agenda is?" (Terishia)
Immediately, Terishia inquires my plans.
I take a second to think about it. We could start farming right away that we were all acquainted. However, I take a good glance at my party's armour and found it a little light, even for a team comprised half by mages.
"Let's go to a weapon store first to upgrade our equipment. The king did kindly give us a generous amount of funding, after all." (Ren)
"Sounds good. Should I recommend a store? I'm pretty familiar with the blacksmiths in the town." (Bakter)
I take a second to consider it but quickly shake my head. If we're talking about equipment, there's only one person I trust, now. After my dealings with Naofumi, I'm now convinced that that guy is the best blacksmith in the country, if not this world. The Houou Sword in my possession was made by him after all.
"No need, I know a reliable blacksmith." (Ren)
"You do?" (Bakter)
Ah, right, I'm supposed to be someone from another world. Shit, need an excuse um… the servant excuse worked last time so...
"Er… I mean, I was already recommended one earlier when talking to the servants in the castle. Their reviews seemed reliable so I wanted to visit there myself." (Ren)
"I see… well, if you say so, I'll let you lead the way." (Bakter)
Bakter sounded a little uneasy as he stepped back to let me go ahead. Without a doubt, I'd need to be more careful how I revealed what I knew and didn't in this world. I don't want to do something that would bring too much suspicion and ruin my relationship with my comrades.
Keeping that in mind, I led the team to the prior mentioned weapon shop.
"Hm? Oh, hey, Ren. Coincidence to see you here." (Naofumi)
"Oh. Hey, Naofumi." (Ren)
Upon our arrival at the store with a ridiculously large sword emblazoned on its sign, we entered to see Naofumi and the Bitch inside, talking to the Weapon Shop Owner, while looking at the wares.
I took a second to glimpse at the familiar interior of the store. From floor to ceiling, the walls were littered with glittering, metal weapons and armour of all assortments. The bright light from the shop windows shone in and reflected off the metal equipment, giving them a tasteful shine. Apart from the wall displays, many, many more weapons were hidden away at the back of the store. If it could be used in a fight, the Weapon Shop Owner had it in stock.
"Ah, if it isn't the Hero of the Sword and his companions. Did you come here for equipment as well?" (Bitch)
Upon noticing us, Bitch addressed us with a bright, friendly smile. In response, Bakter grinned back and waved, but I kept my poker face. To think that such an innocent smile hid one of the greatest evils in the universe… it honestly scares me.
"What? The Hero of the Sword, too. For two heroes to come to my shop, I must be more famous than I thought." (Weapon Shop Owner)
The muscular, straight-shot shop owner eyed me and chuckled to himself. I was glad to see him, and immediately walked up to the counter.
"Your quality work is fairly well-known, sir. I'm counting on you to be supply my group with some excellent equipment." (Ren)
"I see you know good smithing when you see it, kid. Well, if you both are planning on becoming regular customers, my shop's fame will shoot up, so I think I'll be getting along with you guys just fine. Nice to meet you!" (Weapon Shop Owner)
"Ah, right. Got it." (Naofumi)
Before talking to the shop owner, I turned to my party and signaled for them to come a little closer and wait for me to negotiate.
"So, what are you two looking for you?" (Weapon Shop Owner)
"Well, I'd like a weapon for combat, to begin with." (Naofumi)
I could see in Naofumi's eyes glimmering as he glanced at the array of weapons on the wall that breaking the news to him would be tough. Well, someone had to do it.
"Um… listen, Naofumi. It's hard for me to say this but… the heroes aren't allowed to wield any weapon other than the legendary one." (Ren)
"Eh? Are you sure?" (Naofumi)
"Is that so…" (Weapon Shop Owner)
Instantly, his eyes darkened a little as he turned towards me with an expression of doubt.
"Yeah, just watch." (Ren)
To demonstrate, I strolled over to the adjacent weapon display and placed my hand on a spear. After a moment for the sword to register my grasp, an electric shock shot out repelling my hand from the shaft of the weapon.
The usual message popped up in my vision:
Legendary Weapon Contract Violation: Contact with Unauthorized Weapon
Everyone else in the shop just looked back and forth from me and the spear with looks of wonder.
"As you can see, whenever you try to wield another weapon, it'll be forcefully rejected." (Ren)
"I see… um, I guess I can only use my shield, huh…" (Naofumi)
With damped spirits, Naofumi turned back towards the still surprised shop owner and had to change his request. The shop owner, pretty dumbfounded, scratched his chin and gazed at the depressed Naofumi.
"Hmmm… I know. If weapons are out, how about I set you up with some protective gear, laddie." (Weapon Shop Owner)
"Eh? A-alright. That sounds good." (Naofumi)
"Oh, if it's armour, I'd like some too, for my party." (Ren)
Taking the chance, I step up and try to order some protective gear for my team, as planned. This, however, elicited varied reactions from them.
"Eh? For us, Ren-sama?" (Fauly)
"You don't really need to, man." (Conner)
"No, no, I insist. With the exception of Bakter, all of your armour is pretty light. You're practically walking paper targets." (Ren)
My reasonable explanation only brought out disapproving frowns from them. Fauly, in particular, was upset about my suggestion, almost sulking. I don't think I'm being unreasonable but perhaps I seem so. How could I convince them?
"U-um… I don't need any armour, Ren-sama. Instead, I'd prefer if you spent the money equipping yourself." (Fauly)
"Huh!?" (Ren)
"Fauly is correct. Your priority at the moment should be your own equipment. I am fine with my current outfit. It is easy to move in and I won't be taking that many hits in the backline." (Terishia)
"Me? But I don't really need it…" (Ren)
Even in the otherworld clothes I was wearing right now, my level of 160 kept me pretty safe from monsters. Even if they could do damage to me, my speed and skill could easily let me dodge and strike back instantly. Well, granted they didn't know that, but still…
"C'mon man. You have the lightest armour out of all of us. Grab yourself some gear." (Conner)
It doesn't look like they'd accept armour even if I bought it for them. How can I make them understand that I'm just looking out for them? Continue with presenting logical arguments, or perhaps simply use my position as Hero to listen to me?
While I contemplate that, Bakter finally steps up and speaks, having been quiet so far.
"Listen, Ren-sama. What everyone is trying to say is that your safety is of the utmost importance to us. We can't have a Legendary Hero die on us, you understand. Can you just back off here and compromise with us a little?" (Bakter)
With a warm smile, the knight reasoned with me. The word he used, Compromise, stuck especially well in my brain. I swiftly glance at Naofumi, who was watching with interest, and recall a conversation I had with him, in the other timeline…
"Listen Ren, the most important thing in business is that all parties end up happy." (Naofumi)
"Eh? Can that happen?" (Ren)
It was just after he had sent me and my group to try our hands at peddling. Of course, it ended in a failure, with very few sales to report. That night, while Naofumi was tutoring me in language as usual, he struck up the conversation, though he didn't seem too into it as he talked while grading my work.
"That's right. The worst thing you can do in business is push too hard. Whether it's having unreasonable prices or being too pushy with the customer, moderation is important. That's the problem with Female Knight and your selling methods. You're both too energetic and idealistic." (Naofumi)
"I see…" (Ren)
"Rather than staying strict to your business standards, be flexible and aim for a situation where both you and the customer can come out feeling good about the transaction. Both give and take in balance. Also, Female Knight seems like she'd be especially bad at this kind of stuff, so I'm counting on you to guide her, got it?" (Naofumi)
"Yes. I'll do my best." (Ren)
Well, in the business side of things, my actual sales never went up but the lesson of the story is still valid.
It wasn't exactly peddling, but this was the kind of situation you were talking about, right Naofumi? Heh, to think you'd be helping me out, even now. To pay you back, I'll look after this you, okay?
"Alright, you guys win. I'll get armour for myself." (Ren)
With a slight grin, I raised my hands in defeat. Elated expressions immediately broke out among my party, with the exception of the still poker-faced Terishia, of course.
"Thank you for listening to us, Ren-sama." (Fauly)
"You heard them, sir. Gimme two sets of armour, one for me and one for that guy." (Ren)
I turned to the shop owner and gave him my order while pointing backwards at Conner. The guy himself's expression was some mix of betrayed expectation and surprise.
"Oi, were you not listening, Hero-sama? I'll be fine with what I got." (Conner)
"Sorry Conner, but I refuse to leave you with that leather armour. Fauly and Terishia are one thing, but you'll be taking quite a few hits, so you'll need some protective gear as well. If I'm getting armour, you are too." (Ren)
I make a little smirk as I read out my ultimatum.
"Huh? But… I… er…" (Conner)
Conner's face contorts a little as he considers my demand. After a few moments, he shows a pained expression and raises his own hand in defeat.
"Ffff-fine. I'll take a cheap breastplate." (Conner)
"So… three sets of armour, if I listened right. What's your budget, lads?" (Weapon Shop Owner)
I take a good consideration of the funds I currently held. I had to consider accommodations, consumable supplies, and future upgrades along with the revenue we'd gather from selling monster drops. For now, I could expect a pretty decent income with a 5-man team, so I could afford to be a bit extravagant here.
"I'd say about 100 silver per set. Maybe a little more." (Ren)
"I think that's about the same for us." (Bitch)
"Alright, let me see what I have in the back." (Weapon Shop Owner)
With that, the old man disappeared for a few moments, spent in silent waiting. Conner started whistling mid-way, which only made the time seem to take a little longer. Eventually, the weapon shop owner returned with a loud, metal jingling sound in his arms. Three whole different sets of armour were carried to the counter. With little effort, he laid them out on the table for our inspection.
Naofumi's was a tunic-style set of chainmail, black in colour. Conner's was a silver breastplate that could be strapped on. Mine consisted of a thinner chainmail but with plates of black metal wielded onto vital areas. Without a doubt, I could tell that the shop owner had chosen them especially for each person's needs, even though he had only just met us. What a guy…
"For the shield laddie here, I have this suit of chainmail, my own personal recommendation. For the sword kiddo, a lighter one to not hinder your speed. Finally, you wanted just a breastplate right, spear-user? This one's good and durable, but not heavy enough to upset your balance." (Weapon Shop Owner)
"Awesome." (Naofumi)
"How much does it cost?" (Bitch)
With sparkling eyes, Naofumi was already reaching out and feeling the cold metal, examining its information on his status. I take the opportunity to do so as well.
Light Plated Chainmail
Defense Up. Slash Resist S
Looks good. As always, the old man sells some high quality stuff. I've dabbled in a little smithing myself, so I could ascertain its worth.
"Let's see… for you kids, I'll knock it down a bit. The chainmails will be 120 Silver and the breastplate 100. I'll even throw in the innerwear free of charge." (Weapon Shop Owner)
120 Silver? You could charge 150 for this without any complaints, old man. What a nice guy.
"Do you do buybacks?" (Bitch)
"Hmm? Well, I guess if you brought it back in good shape I'd be willing to pay 100 silver coins for it." (Weapon Shop Owner)
"What's wrong, Mein?" (Naofumi)
Hearing the rapid fuss that Bitch was making, Naofumi lifted his gaze from the set of armour and looked at his pretty companion.
"Oh, Shield Hero. I was just asking him how much we could make back on this armor once you outgrow it." (Bitch)
Was that the part where I was supposed to laugh? Please, Bitch. I know that you're just trying to find out how much you can sell that chainmail for once you've stolen it from Naofumi. I know your game; you can't fool me.
"Okay then. I'll take it." (Naofumi)
"We're okay with ours as well." (Ren)
Once we confirmed our purchases, we reached into our moneybags and paid the shop owner for the armour. For his generosity, I tried to give him a little extra, but he noticed it and gave it back to me, thinking I had just counted wrong. One by one, we were led into the changing room, where we put on our new equipment.
"Gahaha. You guys sure look sturdier already, though not by much." (Weapon Shop Owner)
"Er… I'll take that as a compliment." (Naofumi)
Now that we had our purchases all in order it was time for us to head out to the field. While I led my group out of the shop, I took a moment to talk with Naofumi.
"Oi, Naofumi." (Ren)
"Hm? What's wrong, Ren?" (Naofumi)
I take a good look at his face. His large eyes, excited smile, and innocent expression.
I've been in this man's care in my timeline, one where he had suffered much pain. When I was left astray, he spearheaded the mission to bring me back to my senses. Right now, the only thing I could possibly do to repay him is to keep him from feeling that pain once again. Whether it's eliminating the source of his torment or even shouldering the blows in his place, I need to do something to repay his kindness.
That's why I smiled. I smiled and spoke to him.
"Take care… okay? I understand it'll be tough for you, only having one companion and all, but I trust you'll pull through. I know you can do it." (Ren)
"Ren…" (Naofumi)
His face grew soft.
"Thank you. Thanks a lot, Ren." (Naofumi)
He held out his hand, which I grasped and shook with pleasure.
"Shield Hero, we should hurry to the field." (Bitch)
"Ah, yes. I'll see you soon, Ren." (Naofumi)
"Cya." (Ren)
With that, the pair of them retreated, strolling down the streets towards their target hunting grounds. As they left, I shot a quick "I'm coming for you" glare in Bitch's direction but she didn't notice and continued walking while speaking in a sweet tone to Naofumi.
"You seem to be very close with the Shield Hero, Ren-sama." (Bakter)
"What are you, brothers from another life?" (Conner)
My party brought my gaze back into focus with their side remarks. Bakter and Fauly had been watching the scene with warm expressions while Conner shrugged and Terishia stayed indifferent.
"Of course. We, heroes, have to be close and work together at a time like this. More importantly, we'll be heading out to the field, now. Once we get there, listen closely to my commands. We'll mainly work on getting our combat formation set up properly, today. Understood?" (Ren)
"""Understood!""" (Ren's Party)
To say the least, hunting went unnaturally smoothly. I managed to remember Bakter, Fauly, and Terishia's abilities so the only unkown variable was Conner. The Spear Fighter was very flexible, though, so I was able to construct a working formation in no time, with Bakter and I in the front, Conner a little bit behind, and the two mages in the back. Whenever there was a problem, I stepped in and eliminated it immediately.
Speaking of which, to the lv. 160 me, the balloons we faced were weaker than the smallest of small fry. They moved so slowly and I only needed to barely tap them before their HP bars hit zero, much to the amazement of my party.
As a further side note, Conner demonstrated his unnaturally skilled ability at dismantling monster corpses, leaving us with a lot of loot and plenty of leftover items for me to store in my sword's inventory hammerspace. With the excess drops, we returned to the town with quite a bit to sell. Our total profit came down to about 8 Silver, an extremely high amount for a first day.
As such, we all had a hearty toast at a nice inn, and retired for the night with pleased expressions. Well, when I saw we, I mean everyone but me. After waiting a little while upon entering my room, I discreetly snuck out, taking care not to alert anyone, including the other patrons in the inn. Once I got out onto the night streets, I gripped my sword tightly and readied myself.
"Time to go witch-hunting." (Ren)
Afterword:
Hello, citizens of the interwebs, Zikari8 checking in again with another chapter of the Redemption of the Sword Hero. Life's been busy lately but I managed to squeeze in some time to write this chapter for y'all. Well, maybe life isn't that busy if I was able to write a chapter 1.5 times the length of the previous ones. This chapter could've easily been two, but I didn't you to make you guys wait 1 more week for more action.
This chapter features the introduction of the first original characters in this fanfic so far: Ren's Party. If you have the time, go ahead and tell me what you think of these four adventurers with a review. Other than that, I'd like to continue thanking everyone who's favourited, reviewed, or even just read this fanfic. I'm glad to see it's so loved. Until next time, have a good week and build up your anger for Bitch. Bai Bai!
