Chapter 3: Carrot or the Stick?
A/N: I'm still pleased there's quite a few people following this story and we gain more favs almost daily. I hope it isn't too boring as I know my action scenes well but inter character dialogue often suffers and given the dynamic of someone like Elias it's a bit more challenging (but fun) to write him. I hope you continue to enjoy the updates, and believe me I'd love to churn them out faster, but these are labors of love that are 20+ pages long and roughly 20-30 minutes per page on a good day. Without some downtime at work I often don't have more than enough time than to write up a page or so a day.
But as long as this story is popular as it is I'll keep bringing it out. (Side note there may or may not be EliasxChise Lemon coming up)
Naofumi grunted as he walked along the cart trail, his hands in his pockets as the fresh mud began to cake to the bottom of his boots and the smell of wet stagnant water filled his nostrils. "You know, would it be too much to ask for you to do some of the walking?" They were supposed to be moving by carriage and should've arrived were it not for their ambush the previous evening.
Elias articulated his shadow out in front of Naofumi, the black shadow being nothing but a large mass with red eyes. "You are unable to meld into the shadows, it would be most impractical for me to waste further energy and carrying you is simply out of the question." The gentlemanly tone used by his new partner only made him exhale with mild frustration.
"Dahh," He groaned, bringing up one hand he ran it down over his face.
"That face is interesting, why are you making it?"
Unsure of what he was saying, Naofumi was not aware of the being who was currently tethered to his shadow. "I'm just more than a little frustrated at the moment."
"What reason would there be for frustration? There are no current enemies or monsters in the area that require our attention and your current pace I would estimate several hours until we reach our destination. On Top of the small collection of silver that you pulled from the brigand's pockets I do not see the need to be frustrated. Unless there is something else you are not sharing with me."
'This guy is the definition of literal,' Naofumi thought with mild annoyance, "You don't understand the significance of that crest, do you?"
"I am as much a stranger to this world as you are. You told me it was a crest from the royal family but I do not know anymore than what you've explained to me."
'Fair enough.' "Well it just overly complicates things, those guys had some type of imperial decree giving them permission to act on behest of the kingdom." The Shield Hero decided to have a break and stopped beneath an overhanging tree that didn't have water ready to start dripping from its leaves. "The letter just gives them a blessing to act under royalty's orders."
Elias slipped out from his shadow and moved into his refined form beside him. Sitting with one leg up and the other stretched out. As if he'd been sitting there from the beginning. "Well feel free to explain away I am curious as to why the rulers of a country gave a band of mercenaries a royal order to do as they wished." His head slightly leaned to the side looking over the shield Hero.
"I was betrayed by the nobility and basically scorned from day one of my arrival. Despite being one of the four cardinal Heroes this entire country is basically told that the three that matter are the sword, spear and bow heroes. The shield is disliked by the church and the upper nobility, especially the King."
"Is there any reason for this hatred, or is this a typical human nature?" Elias had seen century upon century of human violence for no other apparent reason other than to just kill each other. From the time of the Romans, the dark ages, the rise of feudal kingdoms, to the modern growth of expansion and imperialism, through the world wars. There was nothing that could surprise the elder mage about the sheer lessons that humans were okay with only furthering their basic need for violence in ever more creative manners and on even larger and larger scales.
He might've actually gotten involved had the German Reich invaded his country of England, though he very much doubted the church would've stood by and let that go on without repercussion.
Apparently even across world's human's didn't have any objections either about harming one another. 'Just that basic desire to prove one's own superiority never fades.'
"It's complicated." He'd said this far too many times to count. But he and Elias had only so much time to get acquainted with one another, perhaps it would be best to explain everything. With the sun cresting up upon the midday portion he could use this time to say his part without exhausting himself at the height of the burning sun.
The explanation of the deception of the first princess and the subsequent trial and guilty verdict tossed onto his head was still a wound that hadn't healed. His desire to pay Princess Myne back in kind for all of the humiliation he had suffered.
Elias remained quiet throughout the story, drawing the logical comparisons between humans. 'No one wishes to be falsely accused or in the wrong. Personal desire for acceptance- wanting to be in a community or family structure. Yet this one was ostracized from the beginning. Vulnerable, bitter, and filled with a desire for revenge.' "What is your goal? Should you be given an opportunity for revenge? What desire do you wish to set loose upon those who have wronged you?"
"I'd shove their faces in the same shit they put me through." His anger rising up as he looked at Elias. He was a full foot taller than him even while sitting.
"I don't understand, that act can not be repeated as it was done to you? Unless there is some hidden desire that you wish to see with this King and Princess daughter, I am unsure as to what resolution you would have."
A skull for face didn't give any real emotion or hint of subtlety. Naofumi wondered if perhaps Elias was being sarcastic or mocking him. Yet the man was pretty much a statue, he didn't really react. 'Is he thinking…' No that couldn't be, but as Elias had yet to say or make another sound, it probably was. "I don't want to have them accused like I was, I just want them humiliated for what they did to me so that I can be exonerated."
The mage turned his head away for a moment looking towards the road, "Would killing them not suffice for an apt revenge? They wronged you, you gave them death. That leaves them no chance to wrong or harm you again and send a very clear message for anyone in the future."
'That sounds good, but killing them? Is that what I would want?' Having their smug faces humiliated was what he had wanted, but… 'Would it be so bad?' Dark thoughts tickled at either side of his brain. The image of the joke of a king but before the axe of a headsman… 'no no.' That image wasn't correct, picturing the King in the tight grasp of his palm. A tight grip that wrenched the life out of his face.
However, Naofumi wasn't delusion. A childish notion of revenge was killing someone who did something bad to you. Perhaps too many movies and shows had given that idea of punishing criminals the correct way, since the law was unable to do so. An overly dramatized western style of handling things.
"No, they haven't done anything warranting death, it would also ruin my image as a Hero. Despite that being a bit childish, I can't just kill them."
The fae creature listened. "I see, perhaps you aren't like other humans." Elias's voice sounded pleased. "Normally humans don't care about the manner or method of revenge, so long as the other person is made to suffer. Perhaps it's the nature of your backgrounds but my dear Chise always wished for the best, though I will not say she never lost herself on the path because it is how I came to acquire her. But she always did right even if it meant her own suffering." He nodded his skull head.
He placed a white gloved hand on Naofumi's shoulder. "You are a good human."
'A ringing endorsement from a monster,' "You're not so bad yourself, aside from eating that one guy."
The small sarcastic quip went up and over the thick skull. "I reserve my eating of people for very rare occasions. My youth, or what you human's might call it, I spent my time lost and without purpose, there's an odd…. Hmm satisfaction when you taste the blood of such warranted prey, but human flesh pales in comparison to good cooking."
"Good to know I guess." The shield Hero was finding himself a tad bit uncomfortable. "Well, I suppose that's enough reminiscing, maybe she would start walking again. I'd like to reach the capital by the evening. Getting Raphtalia back is my first priority and-"
"And then we shall locate my Chise." Elias said standing up. "So long as your companion does not impede the return of my bride I shall let you dictate the path we take." Human's required assurances, it was the same with Chise when he brought her into his home she needed to be told that she was welcome, given food and drink, a bed and access to his study. Then he spoke with her, gave her comfort and in such a short amount of time she quickly bonded to him.
The parallels between him and Naofumi were quite alike. Though they differed heavily in many other ways.
"I don't think Raphtalia would object to rejoining me. We had a pretty good thing going and I doubt that anyone at the capital would be taking in a demi human except for her to be a slave and I wouldn't believe that she'd put herself through that considering what has already happened." Naofumi took a breath, finding that small fire in his chest burning just a little bit more. 'I'll be there soon.'
Standing up Naofumi got onto his feet once again ready for the journey. "Well let's get ourselves moving, it would be helpful if we reached the capital faster."
Elias nodded, he did not rise but let his bold shift back down into the shadows and slither along the ground and into Naofumi's own.
'Let's make haste then.'
With a short rest and a reaffirmed second wind the Devil and the Shield headed back on their path towards the capital.
As their combined forms disappeared over the next hill two figures who stood along the edge of the road. "I dare say this is most concerning." One spoke their faces hidden by their long gray cloaks and obscuring mask.
"Most. Shall I send a runner to her Majesty?" The second said to which the first nodded.
"Most unexpected, I dare say, most definitely."
[***]
"I said no." Chise was dressed up, though not as elaborately as normally. Her large gown and robes replaced by more dignified attire- it was a bit tight though- Chise had been stuffed into a corset against her wishes making her walking and bending more of a task than she would ever have imagined. A white and green dress that stopped just below her knees were covering her body with her shoulders bare, the only real holy symbol was the ornate headpiece. Like the Nun's headpiece except with the three heroes church symbol engraved in gold atop the fabric.
Of course she was standing out in the courtyard, a full caravan drafted and her personal carriage was waiting for her to be boarded and while they could stuff her on it, it probably wouldn't be the best of beginnings for their trip.
Chise counted at least four wagons, three carriages and two full carts of supplies that were gathered along with eight others on horseback. It wasn't a small showing either.
But Lady Adalee was doing her best to 'guide' her to her seat so they could begin moving out but Chise- was being herself- extra stubborn.
"Rapthalia will be joining me and I will not be leaving until she does." Her stubbornness was coming from the real possibility of something happening to the Raccoon girl the second she left. No one at the church liked her and treated her well, or did anything to help her unless directed by Chise herself.
It was angering and simultaneously tiring. Why couldn't anyone see that she was a good person, why was the fact she had raccoon ears and a tail made her less than anyone else? Chise might not be from this world but there was no way she was going to allow this. 'I won't stand by and watch people languish in misery because she was told so by someone.'
"Holy Mother, by what logic would bringing a demi help our cause? They do not abide by our religion, they do not accept the three heroes church teachings and put their faith in the Shield Hero who has often been led astray and courted calamity. Having her at your side will only ferment unrest amongst the faithful and demis alike."
"As opposed to the people who've tried to kill me?" Her argument wasn't without merit. "How many people like Raphtalia have attempted to do the same?"
"Demi's don't come to worship with us like proper humans-" They were still spinning their wheels, neither side was getting their way. But there was a benevolent and holy third party willing to step in and be the deciding factor.
"My, my, the lord has put the cross roads before us has it not."
The voice made Chise go rigid, and those who were on their feet to drop to their knees in reverence. The Pope had made his appearance. Walking with his quiet demeanor but presence was overwhelming.
The hud on Chise's vision sported all manner of alerts and warnings as his radiance quashed any sort of buffs or meaning that she had.
She wasn't sure if anyone else felt it, or was aware of it. But the Pope was very powerful, and not in the holiness or touched by god. Chise could feel the status effects begin to hit her, the bizarre game-like feelings that were manifesting inside of her caused her stomach to begin doing flip flops.
Perhaps she hadn't gotten used to the fact she had an entire set of rules to live by. A twisted fantasy world mixed with rules on how one lived and perceived things. That made things more complicated, even her several weeks spent here there was something popping up that she wasn't prepared for.
This would be another one, but fortunately. Chise could see she resisted a great deal of the Pope's effects upon her. Raphtalia had shown her how to bring up her stats, and although she had low stamina and vitality, she did have moderate intelligence and high spirit.
All except for Chise bowed their heads and spoke their prayers the Pope approached. "It seems that we have a conflict and so I ask how we can fix this? The flock await beyond the walls to hear the Holy Mother."
"Your Holiness, forgive us but our Saint wishes to bring alongside a Demi-Human. The one she saved but a fortnight ago." Rising up and bowing again, "Please might you speak with her about our plans and that such companionship might cause issues for our noble cause?"
The redhead didn't say anything looking at her nun caretaker for a moment before shifting eyes to the Pope who brought his hand to his chin and slowly stroked the lower part of his face. "Would the masses truly be afraid of merely one different than their own sister?"
Chise's eyes widened slightly, but the Pope surprised her yet further. "Surely the presence and holy righteousness of our beloved Holy Mother would be more than enough to dissuade those who might falter? Do you not have faith in the will of god and his most divine servant?"
It was highly unexpected and there were no shortage of confused looks and slight murmurings amongst those gathered. Yet as the Nun struggled to come up with a response the Pope walked forwards, "It is in God's mercy that we continue to spread his word, for those of different faiths might come and see the true message. If one can be absolved of sin and repent for it then it is Holy Will." He then gestured to Chise, "Our Holy Mother has given a decree and yet you all stand ther muted in silence? Do you deny our Lord by this very act of speaking against his most precious of Saints mean nothing?"
"No-!" "Never!" "Forgive our weakness!" Those gathered began to drop to their knees and grovel, their cries reaching for absolution. A sight most uncommon for Chise who saw once stalwart and dogmatic people drop to their hands and knees. Prostrating themselves before their holy figures gathered.
But the Pope merely continued smiling, "Be at ease my children, there are always tests to our faith. Be at ease." He looked to Lady Adalee, "Do not worry, I know God's will. If there are any concerns please bring them to me and I shall provide you with an answer."
'She looks humbled,' Chise noted as the woman bowed her head and offered her hands in prayer. "Forgive me." The Pope's hand dropped down to touch her shoulder.
"Only through challenges shall the faithful be rewarded, this is merely a stepping stone. Please continue your work as I know you only work towards bringing our light to the masses." With his short sermon over his eyes turned to Chise. "How are we doing this morning, I take it you've been well cared for?"
'Smothered would be more appropriate.' Yet Chise wasn't going to start being smug, that wasn't going to help. However… "I'm doing fine, but I want to know about Elias… how is he doing?"
The holy man didn't even seem bothered by the question, "He is still to my knowledge being restrained as I promised. No hand of the church will do anything to harm him as I promised."
It made Chise feel better, but only slightly, she had no idea if he was actually telling the truth. Perhaps going off the word of someone who kidnaps you and makes you a defacto saint wasn't screaming with the highest of praise for her own comfort. It was just a feeling.
"Would I be able to see him-"
"Follow me," He said, cutting her off sharply with a hand around her shoulder. "My disciples prepare I shall have a short word with the Holy Mother, and see to her will is done while we speak."
Guiding her away from those who quickly busied themselves with other tasks, not that there was much to do but they gave the two icons of their church space.
Walking about some forty yards away the Pope removed his arm from her shoulder. His smile dropping to a neutral position but he did not seem angry. "Your concern is noted and as I promised I will release him and you once you have assisted with our cause. This is a show of trust, I will allow you to travel unhindered spreading our good word with the demi-human that you saved and in return you shall continue to aid the flock of our church."
Chise saw that this was a token gesture, perhaps he didn't exactly mean what he said earlier. His faith only goes so far as it furthers his own goals I guess. "Will I be allowed to see Elias once this trip is concluded? I'll keep fulfilling this role if you promise me that he will be okay."
Raising up his hand with the other placed over his heart, "It will be done. I only wish for you to help those outside of the capital now. God's love needs to be seen by all, the miracle that you are is a testament to so many. You have power's unique to that of a Hero but are not granted one of their weapons. Though in time I hope you see this not as a part that needs playing to what can be your future."
"I'm not from this world, I have other friends and people close to me that I want to see again and Elias is also special to me and I know you see him as a monster, he isn't anything like that. He just doesn't understand people. If we could talk to him and explain everything there wouldn't be any issues just give me that chance." While she wasn't above helping people, that wasn't too much of a task but the means in which they had pushed her into a corner to get her help. That still left her trust issues magnifying that something could seriously be happening to her inhuman fae.
"Truly I know child, but when we attempted to speak with him he killed several people." His eyes looking at her now with all seriousness. "Prove to me what you say is true and I shall deliver your Elias back to you."
It's not like she really had a choice. She simply let her head fall in defeat. But The Pope touched her shoulder. "Do not despair, God brought you to us, the brightness in your soul is brighter than the sun itself and the reward you seek shall be greater than you imagine." Still she said nothing as she found herself slipping back into a depressive state where she was helpless.
[***]
The day had gone a bit further but Naofumi arrived at the gates of Melramarc's capital. Though his feet were killing him, and his body was covered in sweat he had accomplished his task. Yet a red eyed shadow continued to follow him. The mage had been keeping himself remarkably quiet yet Naofumi was still lamenting his now swelling feet and once inside he found an unoccupied bench near the gates that he promptly crashed upon.
"Oh, thank god," taking a chance to remove his boots as the extra water probably had incurred some unnecessary swelling from the start of his journey. The wet skin was still tender and the open air felt like soft needles. Yet he was the Shield Hero. "Fast Heal." He spoke and quickly found himself in relative comfort with his feet.
But with his focus distracted Naofumi realized that he had suddenly gained a bench companion. A man with hazel eyes and dark blonde hair that framed neatly around his face despite being somewhat impractical. Of course the answer to who he was apparent as the nice suit was a clear giveaway to the one Naofumi had worn when Elias looked to give him a more appropriate attire.
"Is… that you?" The shield Hero still wearing the confused look on his face.
The gentleman turned his face towards him and smiled, "Dashing yes?" There was quite the expression, "Magic can be quite the useful tool. Everything about this face is utilitarian but also functional." He pinched a section of his cheek to prove it as well.
There wasn't much that Naofumi could reply with. "I can't say i've ever seen magic like that."
"Fortunate for us then. Now, we should make our way into the capital. The more information I can begin gathering the faster I might locate Chise." Elias felt the odd stirring in his chest, though it wasn't excitement or warmth that he had experienced on occasion. This was something else. Like his body was going to start perspiring, and he wished to begin fidgeting.
It was definitely a perplexing emotion. Yet his companion wasn't as eager. "Hold on, how do you intend to start looking for her?"
"An odd question, I will simply ask which human's might appear to know the most information. Even if it requires asking hundreds of people."
'That's totally the wrong way to go.' "You can't go around just asking everyone about her, you'll cause people to get suspicious and we're already being targeted by the church and royal family." Yet if he expected concern from his living shadow he was disappointed as Elias just kept staring at him.
"I fail to see how that is relevant, the acquisition of our wards is the primary goal. Worrying about others interfering with our current objective is unimportant. Speed is our greatest import right now."
Shaking his head Naofumi deposited his healed foot back into his boot. "Look if the church realizes you escaped then what is protecting Chise? What is protecting Raphtalia from the royal family they could do anything they want with them and force us to either confront them on their terms or guarantee we never find them." Yet Elias did not seem bothered, Releasing a grunt of frustration. "This isn't about getting what we want quickly. We have to do this smart, the king and church run this entire country, the little bandit group they sent after us will be nothing compared to whole armies that will be sent to hunt us down if they realize that we're on the same team."
"I see your point Sir Naofumi, but I believe that if we work much faster there will be no threat to either of them. We strike before they're organized and know of our alliance then will come out ahead." While it could be a problem to attempt to overwhelm an entire country, Elias was not without his years spent in the wilds of man. 'Chise… I will find you.'
"We also have the problem of leaving, I mean you don't know how you were transported here. Do you have any idea how to send yourself back?" The idea of going home was appealing but truth be told none of Heroes that had been summoned here knew how it actually worked, other than they were just dropped into this world by the country of Melramarc. "Jumping back to our home of Earth seems like it'll be difficult and we don't know if they could block our attempt or hell just redirect the spell and we're back in square one with you imprisoned by the Pope."
"I was caught unaware by that human yes, but I would not so easily fall a second time, I am more than aware they are capable of casting magic, it just means that I must ensure the spell will be successful, and perhaps if I am able to translocate our position and make contact with the Fae or Lindel back on Earth a successful portal back home would be more than possible. Even if that option isn't available I can spend whatever time I need to learn this spell that brought us here. Reversing it should be within my powers in time."
"But what if it isn't? We can't deal in absolutes." He pressed the mage further. "What if you can't, what if none of us can go back home because of this?" Naofumi didn't want to spend anymore time than he already had in this world but he was trapped, "They never explained to us how the Heroes of this world go back, plus on top of this while searching for them the waves of catastrophe are going to spawn. Hordes of monsters are going to spill out onto this world and cause untold destruction if I and the other Heroes don't do something."
The risks were huge, the challenge to overcome an entire nation was a daunting task, "It's just me and you right now, we can't be dealing in absolutes unless we know with certainty that this will happen."
Elias remained silent, his thoughts completely removed and he closed his eyes. What Naofumi told him held merit and he gave more credence to his objections considering he was only free right now because of the Shield Hero.
'This conflict inside of me. I want to rush and find Chise so desperately, but the warnings he is giving me are valid.' What would be the right answer?
"We can save them, but we need to find out more information if we don't we put everyone's lives at risk. Please just follow me on this."
WIth a nod and heavy sigh, "Very well Shield Hero. I will let you take the reins on this for now. But we must make progress to save my Bride, this feeling of her being separated from me by force is causing pain within my ribs."
Naofumi nodded back and raised his hand to Elias. "Together we got this. Just trust me." He would need Elias's help; there would be few allies and if any further damage to his reputation occurred he knew his chances of survival would be zero."The first thing is I need to get answers straight from the King's mouth and have Raphtalia given back to me. Once we do that I'll see if I can get a meeting with the Holy Mother as some type of reward."
A turn of the mages head looked around at the city and took the moment to process everything. "Very well, lead the way."
"Wouldn't you prefer to remain in my shadow?"
Elias shook his head, "If we are to work together then it would make sense for your help to be seen? Would you be able to explain how a hero built with defense in mind could overcome an entire group of bandits? Even after I altered their memories there would be more questions and further inquiries into our goals. If it is known you have help from someone then it would be less suspicious and allow us to work in the open more without having to fear my discovery… that and I would like to see the human's who rule this country with my own eyes."
"Fair enough. Well let's not keep the bastard waiting." His feet had enough of a rest, though he was going to be looking for some better method of transportation soon and hopefully look for some upgraded armor in the process.
It took another hour or so for Naofumi to finally be given 'permission' to appear before the King and with just his luck the moron Spear Hero Motoyasu was in the palace with the conniving Bitch princess and both of them were in the room when he and Elias walked inside. The two double doors opened up and both of them were marched inside.
Elias looked incredibly bored as his hands were in his pockets, the immaculate suit making him stand out unlike most others.
King Aultcray who had been all smiles and pleasant gossip with his daughter and spear hero immediately turned his nose down at the arrival of the Shield Hero. The King's eyes immediately noticed the fine dressed gentleman at Naofumi's side and wondered just who this newcomer to the throne room was. "Well well, I'm surprised you made your return here so swiftly Shield Hero." King Aultcray keeping his autocratic tone as his daughter Myne remained at his side her fingers touching her father's wrist.
Motoyasu had his own cocky grin. "Guess you finally made some use out of yourself eh Naofumi?" The verbal jab only made the other Hero grit his teeth.
"Keep your thoughts to yourself blondie and let at least one adult in the room have a conversation." No matter how much he wanted to keep composure, seeing that moron who had been nothing but the biggest pain in the ass since his arrival Naofumi was unable to keep his mouth closed.
"You wanna have a rematch Shield Loser? You haven't gotten any stronger since our duel and I've already gone up four levels." Motoyasu could see that the only real strength that lay in Naofumi was that he had been caught off guard in their last fight. He knew that Naofumi didn't pose a threat since the duel proved that.
Both Hero's eyes locked onto one another, one eager for revenge the other ready to disprove the doubters.
While the King wouldn't mind seeing the Shield humiliated he had other more interests in the court. "Your rematch can wait sir Motoyasu," The King's jeweled hand breaking the tension for a moment. "Who is this stranger in your presence, shield Hero?"
Elias took his que and bent forward, his head dipping downwards in an exaggerated bow. Cupping his arm underneath his chest, the white gloves nearly touched the other side of his shoulder as the other arm tucked neatly behind his back as he bowed. "I am sir Lindel, your majesty Aultcray." Elias lifted his head upwards and smiled beautifully.
'Human's love smiles, it lowers their guard and the more attractive faces give less reason for suspicion. Though Chise could see through this illusion they seem to be quite accepting of it.' Noting the intrigue of the red haired woman standing next to the man holding the spear.
"What is your reason for accompanying the shield Hero sir Lindel, though I question as to if I have ever met your acquaintance. You seem the noble sort." Aultcray could see the aura this man presented, in addition to that being the finest bow he'd seen in a long time. The only issue he had was his affiliation with the accursed shield. A nearly-nearly- unforgivable action.
"Nothing but a humble mage your excellency and my time spent in the countryside has not given me such time to make efforts to meet nobility." He gave a chuckle. "I'm a bit of a recluse."
"That explains more, perhaps you could find such time later to speak with me like proper gentlemen over tea." The King actually smiled as the man who called himself Lindel dropped to a knee.
"If my duties would permit, I would be honored but I must keep the agreement with Sir Naofumi currently." He then rose up fluidly and placed both of his hands behind his back. "I would say though having such a meeting with the royal family, truly I can see a most fortunate father to have such a wonderful daughter at your side."
'Just dolling out compliments. Don't take it too far…' Naofumi thought not giving Elias any time as he imagined the mage beside him wanted to keep up good appearances and draw them in. 'Probably giving himself a back up plan if I can't deliver on my end I guess. Not that I can blame the… guy.'
"Yep, that's Myne for you. Wonderful in many ways." Motoyasu joined in the royal ass kissing contest in Naofumi's eyes.
"Oh sir Motoyasu, you are sweet as well." The princess said offering a blush as she patted her favorite hero's shoulder and then walked down the steps towards Lindel (Elias). "Truly it is an honor to meet a fine gentleman like you." Offering her hand to the mage who only smiled taking her hand with his gloved fingers delicately and brought his lips down upon the top of her palm.
"The honor is all mine, Princess." Elias's feathered kiss came before bowing once again. The mage's eyes seemed to tense and squint as his lips fumbled themselves but no one noticed as he stood back upright.
Myne sized up Lindel the man was very handsome, his soft eyes and blonde hair though not as bright as her Hero's but it certainly had its own unique touch to it. But her magical eyes looked over the mage and saw quite the magical power. 'He's a strong one, he has more magical power than mother, little mel and myself.'
The royal princess knew this one would certainly be a keeper. Sliding herself to the side she embraced the man's arm with her own, the soft pillow of her breasts touching his arm. "Sir Lindel, would you perhaps entertain a short walk with me?" Her soft words with well practiced deception were on full display. It had been the downfall of the Shield Hero and put the Spear into her pocket.
"Hey Motoyasu, how about you keep your party member off my own or can't you keep control of a single person?" His short bark sent directly at the other Hero. 'Fucking bitch, you won't win over Elias. He wouldn't-'
"I would not mind a short walk Princess," His head turned towards Naofumi, "I believe you should be able to handle your business alone while I am gone? Less distractions and all of those normal problems?"
No time for a reply was given as Myne sucked herself tightly to the man disguising himself as Lindel and walked him out of the room. "Oh come I must show this area of the palace Lindel, trust me you will not find anything better." The red haired princess gushed as she walked out of the room with Elias.
As the two rounded the corner and out of view leaving only the King's guard and the other three men. "I believe that this Lindel might have some benefit for you after all Shield Hero and with him now gone I can properly scold you for your failure."
"Failure? What the hell, I didn't fail. The monster is dead." A lie, it just walked out of the room with his daughter but Naofumi felt that was less important.
Aultcray sat back in his chair, "you collapsed a sacred church and had the priest of the three hero's church of that same town killed in the process?"
"You seriously couldn't kill a single monster, that's pretty weak Naofumi I don't know how you'll be any help to us against the waves of catastrophe."
"I did defeat it and so what, you didn't specify the manner in which it was killed, so give back Raphtalia!" Naofumi pointed a finger at the King, "Owe up to your promise and return her."
This only caused a smirk to appear on the royal's face. "Is that so sir Shield Hero?"
"We had a deal…"
"Indeed we did, but to add to your demands. I never specified her return to you directly, she will be returned once it is appropriate, in fact." The King smiled and put a hand on the Spear Hero's shoulder. "Thanks to this noble Hero the Three Hero's church has taken her in under their protection. No doubt their teachings will be more beneficial than anything you could offer."
Naofumi's teeth grinded together. 'This no good bastard! Why? Why do you keep doing this to me!?' "I promise you King…" His voice a barely controlled rage, " You will come to regret this." 'The monster that was buried beneath the church will be a pale shadow to the wrath I will bring down upon your head.'
"The only regret I have Shield is freeing that poor slave from your grasp. No one creature deserves to be stuck alongside someone like you, even for a demi-human and now you spew viritole towards this nation's King?" Aultcray then swept his hand towards Naofumi. "You are dismissed Shield Hero, let not your presence soil my throne room any further."
He made a step forwards only to hear the heavy clatter of swords and spears fall towards him. Motoyasu dropped his spear down to his side, though it was in Naofumi's direction it did not come up. "You better think your actions through Naofumi, don't force me to really hurt you."
A dark aura swirled at Naofumi's feet, a deep anger swelled up within him. The normal green of his eyes filled with rage and a deep redness overtook his eyes. "I'll make you regret this! For everything you've done to Raphtalia and to me I swear it!" His words were spat out with thick vitriol. For the King who double crossed him once again, and the spear Hero that remained blind to his own stupidity.
Reaching into his pocket the shield Hero held up the discovered note on the bandits. "Keep hunting me and I promise the next group of loyal fanatics will not be spared. I will kill them, they will become fodder on what will become your funeral pyre!" Tossing it forward the royal seal stamped onto the bottom of the parchment visible for many eyes to see.
The King cast a glance downwards, "An impressive forgery, perhaps you're desire to see everyone as an enemy is clouding your mind Devil of the Shield." Silence followed as both King and Hero looked one another down. 'Go ahead Shield. Do it.' Naofumi's next action would certainly be his true end.
But as the red in his eyes began to burn like a fire he turned around and stormed away. Two guards that had their spears leveled near the door watched as the Shield Hero only pulled back his fist and knocked one of the massive double doors clean off.
Yet the King held them back, he had gotten more than enough entertainment, and further reasons to chastise the devil of the shield. What was one door to him for such a reward?
Yet as Naofumi stormed away leaving an unforeseen ally in this damn world's quest to hinder him at all costs lurked within their midst.
[***]
Raphtalia sat in across from Chise, the carriage ride she had joined her on-albeit with some persuasion- was heading towards hard struck areas hurt by the waves of catastrophe. The goal of spreading the power of the church was evident, Raphtalia and anyone who had any concerns about the religious group spreading its appeal to the wider masses would have to be blind or completely ignorant.
'But when you can afford to travel like this, i'm sure there's no shortage of money.' The carriage was twice the size of a normal one. It's effects were designed for comfort, soft padded seats, a small table set inside of it alongside curtains and drapes. The decor that surely screams of nobility though the current primary occupant would disagree.
For the most part Chise had been quiet, her demeanor very melancholic. Staring at nothing in particular and remaining withdrawn, even when Raphtalia had attempted to make conversation Chise just seemed to stare at her blankly.
It was hard for her to really have any say in what had transpired, she simply didn't know what was going on. After Chise had been dolled up and pushed out of her room that morning she perhaps hadn't expected to see her again.
The momentary reprieve to Raphtalia probably signaled to her what would be the end of her freedom or perhaps her value. The demi human wasn't holding herself out too much hope, she'd already suffered enough in her childhood to relinquish such hopeful notions of a rescuer coming. Master Naofumi would come for her, 'But how will he find me, or would they rather just keep me away from him? That constant reminder of failure.'
It's not like they were in a party and neither could he locate her, he didn't have the magic to do that and even if he did end up arriving in her area would she expect the church to just step aside without throwing some sort of dirt his way or blocking his path? She was supposed to be 'free' from the shield hero, 'I doubt Melramarc would allow that to happen, the majority of the soldiers wouldn't stand alongside Naofumi when he was protecting a town.'
'Still.' Her eyes looked towards Chise, 'If there was anything I'd be comfortable doing right now it would be standing by Chise's side. Since my enslavement she's the second person to really care about me and it's probably why I'm here right now.'
Passing outside of the city in short order, the sun rising higher into the air did Raphtalia see Chise stir. "Are you okay?"
Her green eyes blinked the darkness within them slowly fading for a moment and then her head lifted. "I'm sorry." She apologized though not entirely sure for what. But she'd felt like she should be apologizing for something, like the problem was her. It felt strange to say the least. Blinking again she looked to the side. Two more blinks. Then she turned to Raphtalia. "When did we start traveling?"
Her eyebrow raised, "Awhile now, probably two or three hours. Why were we supposed to be there already?'
"No… well… nevermind." Chise didn't want to say it aloud right now. 'I don't even remember getting on the carriage and we've been on it for hours now?' Her memories were just a blur after talking to the Pope. Though with some fortune she was at least with Raphtalia but she wouldn't count on her possibly being able to stick around. Those in the church had made their opinions known about her.
The green eyes drifted towards the window of the carriage, looking outside she saw the countryside around them and remembered the times she had spent on the roads with Elias, those long walks along a dirt path with cobblestone walls. It looked just like those distant paths in England but the dated technology showed along the way.
Her fingers played with the small frills near the top of her dress as they traveled in silence. Yet she couldn't stop herself from asking. "What am I going to do?" Her words meant to be to herself but the ears of a racoon demi human caught them.
"You should do what you feel is right." She smiled at Chise, "Sorry I know that was probably private but I can't help it."
It made the redhead grin, "Yeah I guess so. But this isn't like how it was with Elias."
"You talk an awful lot about Elias but who is he? You never really told me what kind of person he is." Raphtalia could only imagine a person that had this much of an impact on someone like Chise had to be really special.
If she only knew.
"Elias… Well Elias is Elias. There isn't one thing that really describes him very well. He acts like a complete gentleman when he's around people that he likes. Other times he'll just say Die and sorta half means it. But it's his way of expressing displeasure. He did that with our Priest Simon whenever he'd show up and need Elias's help."
"Definitely unique, but what's he look like?" The racoon had some images in her head.
"Eh, well, he has a giant wolf skull for a face." It sounded a bit ridiculous to speak aloud and apparently the look on Raphtalia's face was telling enough as well. "Ye-Yeah it's a little crazy but he has a bone face with horns coming out the back and red eyes. He's some sort of Fae-Human hybrid you could say but not even Elias knows where he came from." She smiled recalling their memories a little bit of that warmth that he had given her returning. "He's not the best with expressing himself, he's straightforward and blunt at times. While sometimes he can be distant and almost childish because he doesn't understand emotions. He knows what they are but struggles to feel them himself."
"How can he not understand them?"
"I wish I knew, Elias sort of keeps that part of him secret even from me. His real body is sort of an amalgamation of a serpent tail, bird feathers, and other monstrous features. I know anyone else would be scared but I'm not." 'I'm not because back on Earth I was cursed. Cursed with this power I couldn't control or understand.'
"Wow that's-" A sudden and sharp stop of the carriage caused Chise to rock backwards, Raphtalia was jostled forwards grabbing onto the table between them as they both quickly recovered.
"What's going on?" Chise immediately looked to the window but couldn't see anything that would cause them to come to a screeching halt. But before she could open the door Lady Adalee was already there.
"Stay here Holy Mother, there is an unusual number of monsters gathered in the road. With the rise of monster's gathering out the capital we had hoped to avoid them but they have so far blocked the path."
She stepped back and moved towards the front and Chise had the chance to stick her head out of the window, Raphtalia as well on the other side. "..." Both of them were a little stunned silent.
A small mountain of balloons were gathered on the roadway, their orange round frames and pointed teeth mashed together stacked atop one another. Then dozens upon dozens of pink eyed slimes joined in along the sides, rolling upwards and jumping in an uncoordinated fashion with perhaps ten or so black twin headed dogs.
"So many…" Chise said, it was quite a sight to behold, although a lot of them were weak monsters, the numbers were startling. Chise had seen maybe a couple here and there, and a few pictures of monsters but this didn't appear to be normal.
The former sword of the shield Hero was going to say this wasn't too big of a problem but then the further unexpected happened. The Balloons crashed forwards like a wave towards the front of the caravan.
One or two could be dispatched by any regular person, a trained soldier could probably handle ten by themselves but over a hundred?
The five religious fanatics upfront stood firm spears and short swords in hand. "Monsters!" Their voices shouted as the sword slashed one balloon, a spear popped another. The flurry of blows rising in tempo but this was an avalanche.
One balloon latched onto a man's knee, another his elbow, smacking one free and stabbing another only to have two more jump and take the fallen's place. Their growling visages only seeming to become more emboldened as defiant cries were replaced with panicked screams.
The Filolial's upfront swiped and pecked at those that got too near but soon the balloons were rushing past their feet.
But Lady Adalee didn't flee; she gathered up those from the rear, ten more men and directed them forwards. "This is a test from God! Forwards!" Her voice shouted while holding up her hand. "Smite!" Her voice shouted and a large burst of light shot forth.
Through the shouting and hollars bright bursts of light continued from Adalee's hands each one cutting swaths through the hordes of weak monster's but just like before it was for each one cut down two more took its place. Each time she would curse and scream out prayers and inspiring chants. Driving the religious fervor to even greater heights if it were possible.
But God's righteous fury could not handle such quantities. Adalee had her hand chomped down by a Balloon causing her to scream in pain before smashing it with her hand. Yet she fell back, as several more defenders were brought down. "PROTECT THE HOLY MOTHER! PROTECT GOD'S GIFT!" Her desperate cries were heard but couldn't be fulfilled.
Raphtalia made the first move and jumped out of the carriage, grabbing a discarded sword and began to cut, slice, and hack at the approaching mass.
And while surely Adalee would love to berate and scream this was a Church matter, she took several steps back and began to cast more spells even as she felt her magic begin to drain.
'I'm not helpless.' Chise told herself as she saw so many people being swarmed by the denizens of the forest. Though she had done this a few times before. Chise followed outside of the open door, despite the craziness she felt calm. Her HUD displaying all manner of ones, twos, threes, from the small balloon monsters.
The demi human did a full spin, the popping of dozens of balloon's occurring as she rounded and swung again. 'So Many!' She and Naofumi had never killed this many in a single day and still they kept coming! But as they swept past Raphtalia their target became clearer as a brilliant white light flowed out from behind her.
"I won't twist this world's magic. I will use it." Concentrating the light flowed upwards and broke into separate sections, like thin needles each several inches long formed in the white light. She sucked in a breath. "Everyone get out of the way!" She shouted. As the small needle like projectiles spun themselves in the air.
Adalee stumbled backwards, her hands still glowing as she sent another burst of energy to break up the lines of balloons. Two more followers jumped and stumbled out of the way as Raphtalia, while winded, cleared the distance between the two.
"Any Balloon fears a sharp object, so begone." Her red hair moved on it's own floating upwards as her magic swelled again. "Shards of light!" And like a shotgun the needle like projectiles fired outwards.
A rippling sound of popping balloons squished slimes and half of the twin headed dogs all were met by the canister effect. Dust shot upwards on both sides, and the animals behind them were spooked as the massive bang of magic burst forth.
Raphtalia covered her eyes at first but as she turned backwards her eyes went wide. Where there was a sea of monsters before… there was an entire cone of the road that was completely barren. Yet Raphtalia felt a glow around herself as the familiar feeling washed over her. She gained a level, but this was more than one, perhaps several in those few moments as she was partied with Chise.
While quality was lacking for experience, the sheer quantity was undeniable! Even Chise could see that she had gained some experience if not for the sudden rush of exhaustion that overtook her. Dropping to her knees and turning the once pristine dress into a much dirtier mess.
The display flashed warning signs all across her vision, as her mana drained itself downwards, but in addition to that her hit points, that small green bar also began to fade.
Chise wretched forwards, her hands covering her mouth as she coughed, but bile did not escape her lips but the metallic taste of blood which coated both of her palms.
Chise wretched again, her body slumping forwards. As she slid and hit the ground she remembered Elias's words. 'Magic is a powerful tool, but we must use it cautiously. We mages should never bend the rules of nature to suit our needs.' Her body still had the powerful reaction to the use of magic. Even in an entirely new world, her body still subjected her to the same painful reactions.
Her vision began to darken as she coughed up a little more blood, a final name passing through her lips. "Elias…" Then swallowed entirely, the redheaded mage was now a moot factor.
Yet as the monster's continued to close in, despite their numbers being stripped by more than two-thirds with that massive display of magical power, Raphtalia and those still standing rushed forwards.
Raphtalia slashed another half dozen balloon's into nothing before dicing another two slimes. Adalee grabbed Chise along with another member of the church and picked her up. They would not sully the Holy Mother and drag her across the ground.
Sword in hand, the Demi Human was determined to make another stand, her second wind coming from the seemingly selfless act and self preservation. What remained of the caravan's escort and jumped alongside her, spearing, and stabbing anything that got close.
"Protect our Saint! In the name of God!" One man shouted his fevor continuing as Adalee loaded Chise up onto a Filolial. They would buy her time to escape, she was too important.
Yet as the numbers looked ready to swell again, the thunder of hooves boor down upon the group. Those in the caravan looked up and saw a miracle, Raphtalia was shocked. Over thirty heavy cavalry horsemen were charging full speed at the horde of monsters.
Unsure of where they had come from and the monster's caught unaware as well were slammed into by the rush of metal, man, and horse.
It was just another sign to the faithful of God's work as the monster's broke, the smashing hooves and swinging steel of trained soldiers broke apart their masses and caused them to scatter.
No matter their intentions the monsters had been thwarted.
The captain of the unit, still covered in his armor, approached on horseback towards the caravan. "We were on patrol and saw a flash of light and explosion. What happened here?" Still breathing through his helmet as he steered his horse around.
"The monsters! The monster's swarmed us! There were thousands of them!" One of the ragged men front he groups said falling to his knee's relief and the loss of adrenaline finally catching up. His garb, having bite marks, cuts, and dirt splattered all over it.
Lady Adalee who had Chise strewn over the back end of a haphazardly saddled Filolial approached. "Praise be, God has sent the righteous to save his children. Bless all of you, you saw the signal given by our saint and came to our rescue."
The leader of the heavy cavalry chuckled, "I'm not much of the religious folk but that light and explosion was one hell of a sign if any." His helmeted head swiveled around looking at the sight around them. There were some casualties and Filolial's injured. "Gather up the dead and wounded so we can escort you to town. The ride is not more than twenty minutes and hopefully you get some rest."
"We would be thankful Sir Knight." Adalee said coming closer on her own mount, the bird not struggling with the minor added weight of Chise who remained unconscious. "If perhaps you could send for a healer in the next town, we will need someone to look after our Holy Mother, she struck down perhaps a thousand of those monsters single handedly and will need tending."
Nodding his head the knight agreed, "It is Sir Lucious mam, though Lucious will suffice. I will ensure on my honor as a knight of Melramarc that I make sure it's people are safe."
With the two on horseback exchanging further pleasantries Raphtalia gathered herself up. Sword still in hand, 'I don't think I should give this one up.' Without asking for permission she found a discarded sheath and buckled it to her side. 'It's not as elegant as the one Naofumi gave me, but it won't go to waste.'
Looking towards Chise, a small trickle of red was still visible on the side of her mouth. A feeling churned within the racoon girl's stomach as she saw how Adalee kept her close. Her hand tightened on the scabbard beside her and her lips pressed flat. 'I should watch over Chise… more closely.'
R&R