The Mage Hero - Chapter 0 [Authors Notes]
Disclaimer: I do not own The Rising of the Shield Hero, nor its characters
Description: This is a what if scenario exploring the idea of an additional hero that wasn't apart of the prophecy arriving in the Kingdom of Malromarc alongside the four canon Hero's. The story of Kenjiro Saito, the Mage Hero, is one of discovery, and mystery. I will not be taking the heart out of what makes this story its own. I intend to have the main character form his own party, with his own adventures, along with having him weigh in in various key moments throughout the series. It is up for Kenjiro to not only figure out how and why he was summoned, but in the meantime, he will also be tasked with aiding the Four Cardinal Hero's in their plight against the waves. As I am an anime only viewer (to avoid major plot related spoilers) I would request that the light novel readers not flame me in the reviews.
Text:
"Speech"
"Thought"
"YELLING"
"Curse Speech"
"Attack" (jutsu will be in either Japanese or English depending on the individual jutsu)
Writing/Narration
| Time Flow |
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O (Perspective/Scene change)
Final Remarks:
Reviews are welcome, I will try to communicate as best I can.
There will be OC's, but there will be no Mary Sue/ Gary Stew's
The Rest of the Prophecy will remain intact, along with a majority of the world's inner workings.
Quest Idea's are welcome, just say you have one in the reviews and I'll contact you to see if it'll fit the story
This Is meant to be somewhat interactive, However, I will not make any decisions that would change the major outcomes of several key points in the story.
I will not be shipping any of Naofumi's party with any OC. I do not want to ruin any emotional impacts by attempting to shoehorn in the new hero.
the main character will be mainly Kenjiro, with a little bit of Naofumi. This is both of their stories.
Enjoy the Story!
The Rising of the Shield Hero
The Mage Hero – Chapter 01 [ Kenjiro the Mage Hero]
Disclaimer: I Do not own 'The Rising of the Shield Hero' or its Characters
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
Kenjiro Saito was an average 18-year-old shut in, spending his days indoors playing online games, reading manga, and watching anime. He had dark spikey hair, and abnormal violet shade of eyes due to his mother's albinism. While he was a shut in, he wasn't as average when it came to his personality. Kenjiro valued his physique enough to go on mornings runs to enjoy the outdoors and enjoy the occasional conversation. Kenjiro had left his parents after high school ended not too long ago to make his own future. Kenjiro was a polite, intelligent, and even happy kid, the only problem was he tended to pick fights with an inconsistent temper and caution mixed personality. To avoid any unnecessary confrontations he decided that he wanted a stay-at-home job to support himself, however for the time being he has turned to drawing commissions for people online.
One night after finishing one of these commissions, Kenjiro had a free night to do something, however he didn't know what he should do. "The libraries are closed right now so a light novel is outta the picture. I'd have to deal with those librarians too so it's probably for the best. I would get online, maybe check out that new MMOJRPG Amethyst Online, but after drawing for so long... I suppose a tutorial section wouldn't hurt" Kenjiro thought as he exited out of his virtual notebook, clicking onto his newly downloaded game. Kenjiro began as he clicked play. On his screen a cinematic began, showing the basic plot of the story. After a common cinematic played out showing various assumed characters battling before starting to a monologue.
The Cardinal Hero's were summoned by the people of the world to defend said people from the waves, a world ending catastrophe that summoned monsters and villains alike to destroy all in their path. Among the hero's was the wielder of the sword, master of close combat. The wielder of the spear, a medium range specialist with no equal. The wielder of the bow, an unrivaled long-range marksman. The wielder of the shield, honing an unbreakable defense.
As the silhouettes of hero's danced across the scene, demonstrating their given talents, Kenjiro openly began to speak. "Well if they have every range of DPS plus a tank, then do they have like a magic wielder? Someone who specializes in magic like a mage. In any MMO I play that's typically my role anyway, JRPG or not." Kenjiro said to himself confused. "Maybe I'm just overthinking this." He thought as he let the cutscene continue.
Just after he made his comment his screen glitched, and suddenly standing as a silhouette was a figure holding some sort of staff. "Oh so there is magic… I wonder what—" Kenjiro's Train of thought was halted as a bright yellow light emerged from his computer screen, blinding him. "What the hell is—" was all he could make out before he was engulfed in the blinding light.
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
"Shit what happened?" Kenjiro thought as he came two in a dark room atop wat appeared to be some sort of glyph on the ground.
"Fantastic! The summoning was a success!" A voice exclaimed, breaking Kenjiro's stupor. "Brave heroes would you please save our world from pure evil!" a blonde man in robes proclaimed, surrounded by four similarly clad people.
"What?" Kenjiro exclaimed, yet to his surprised his sentiment waws mimicked by four additional voices. As Kenjiro looked to his side he saw four more guys around his age. A boy in a yellowish green school uniform with blonde hair, holding an ornate bow, a younger boy in blue and black holding a similar style of sword, an older guy wearing a red shirt over a white one with long blonde hair holding the same type of spear, and a dark spiky haired guy only a little older than him wearing a green tracksuit and a shield.
"Where am I? and what the hell is this?" the green guy stated confused. This prompted Kenjiro to look at his arm, were he was wearing a silver vambrace with a purple gem on the top of it. After closer inspection he saw a similar gem on each of the other weapons, only with colors matching their users color scheme.
"If you guys have weapons, how come all I have is a bracer of sorts?" Kenjiro asked confused.
"Wait a moment, the ritual was only supposed to bring four heroes…" the head figure began confused. "Quickly, inform the king of this." The man said to one of his colleagues, causing them to head up the stairs behind the group.
"What do you mean your world is in need of saving?" the yellow kid asked.
Returning the matter at hand the leader continued. "It is a long and complicated story; however all shall be cleared up as soon as—"
"I refuse." The kid a blue stated stoically as he pointed his sword in the leader's direction. "You take us from our world and then make a very hefty request? Do you have no sympathy?"
"I'll have to refuse as well" the yellow kid added.
"You can send us back to our world right? The guy in red stated. "Do that, and we might talk.
"If you send us back as soon as we finish regardless, we would have done this for nothing." The kid in yellow began, making a lot of sense in the process.
"How well can you accommodate our requests? Depending on your answer we could become your enemies." The guy in red finished.
"Perhaps we should hear them out, I doubt what looks to be a priest would have the authority to grant our requests, perhaps we should speak to the king." Kenjiro added, hoping to not only show solidarity with his seemingly new comrades, but also to get to the bottom of this situation.
"A very wise point sir… Hero. I was just about to request you to come to an audience with the king." The head priest answered, taking the hook to continue the meeting.
"Very well."
"I suppose we should hear him out."
"I mean it doesn't matter who we talk to. Our demands won't change."
The comments of the three heroes echoed as the group followed the priest up the stairs toward the king's throne room. Following the green tracksuit guy up the stairs, their was slight conversation about the world and how different it was compared to their own, but it was cut short as the group arrived in the throne room. "This is just like every isekai I've ever seen. If I'm right, then that means I may as well do what the ask me to do." Kenjiro thought as he entered to see the priest from earlier whispering into what appeared to be an old king's ear.
"I see it is true. An additional Hero has been summoned through the ritual. This was not in the prophecy." The King spoke as the five lined up in front of him. Speaking up for the heroes to hear he began his speech. "So, you young men are the Cardinal Heroes of legend. Welcome to the kingdom of Malromarc. I am her king Aultcray XXXII. Please heroes, identify yourselves." The king requested following his introduction.
"Ren Amaki, Sword Hero, 16 years old, high school student"
"My name is Motoyasu Kitamura, 21 years old, college student, the Spear Hero."
"I am Itsuki Kawasumi, 17, also a high school student, I am the Bow Hero."
"I'm Naofumi Iwatani, 19, college student, and I guess I'm the Shield Hero."
The king looked annoyed allowing the shield to talk, but now he was more interested in what was coming next.
"I'm Kenjiro Saito, 18, out of high school but not in college quite yet, and I don't know what hero I am." Kenjiro answered as he observed his brace.
"Check the bottom right of your vision, you should see something there." The boy he now knew as Ren said in an attempt to help. Following his instruction he noticed what appeared to be a box. "If you focus on it, it should show you your stats.
After properly opening the menu, he observed his class. "It says here I'm the Mage Hero." Kenjiro confirmed as he put the menu away. "I guess that explains why I don't have a weapon."
"If you have Status magic then there is no doubt you are a hero. That magic is exclusive to the Cardinal Heroes." The king explained as he pondered what could have gone wrong. "The prophecy never mentioned a 'Mage Hero'."
"I mean as long as he's here I don't see a problem with letting him help." Motoyasu explained.
"I suppose you make a fair point, but that does not mean I am convinced. For now I shall see what becomes of this… anomaly." The king answered as he continued. Following introduction the king explained essentially what the beginning of the game that grabbed him did, only adding that the kingdom had defended against the first wave, causing them to lose more than they expected, incentivizing them to summon the heroes.
"Now that you are properly informed, you must understand we have no time to lose!" the king exclaimed.
Lightly striking the ground with his sword Ren began. "Okay I think we get the gist of it, but you can't think that we'll be doing this for free."
An advisor to the king spoke up. "Of course not, after extinguishing a wave you will be rewarded handsomely."
"Well then I see we have a deal" Motoyasu said calmly.
"So long as you don't renege, we'll work with you." Ren added.
"We won't put up with you looking down at us" Itsuki agreed.
"Whether I'm meant to be here or not, I will defend this kingdom from the waves." Kenjiro explained.
"Yeah, what they said." Naofumi finished, unsure and embarrassed.
"As you seem to have already checked your statuses, I would like to explain your tasks. Your goal is to upgrade these legendary weapons to the best of your abilities so that you may be prepared for the wave." The king turned his head to Kenjiro. "You in particular, I would request that you do the same, however I would be interested in your various discoveries along your journey." The king added, causing Kenjiro to nod in affirmation.
"Well then once the four of us are ready we can party up and—"
Naofumi began before getting cut off by the king as he said, "I'm afraid you will have to adventure separately."
"Why is that?" Itsuki asked shocked and confused.
"If the Cardinal weapons operate together, then they will not mature, and additional adverse reactions may occur." The advisor explained.
"That makes sense I suppose, but if that's the case then why have us fill all the roles any normal party should have?"
"The sun is about to set, we have prepared rooms for you, however due to the unexpected numbers, it will take some time to prepare a fifth room. After your rest, meet here tomorrow where we will have gathered the best of the best to form your parties." The king offered as a woman approached the five, gaining their attention.
"If you would please follow me to your rooms."
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
The five newly sired Cardinal Heroes sat around a royal room eating and conversating as they began discussing their current situation.
"Doesn't this kinda seem like a video game?" Naofumi began.
"That's cause it is a video game, this is exactly Emerald Online." Motoyasu confirmed.
"Emerald Online?"
"Uh… Never heard of it." Naofumi said confused.
"Are you serious? It's the most popular RPG ever?!" Motoyasu explained stunned
"That's not true. It's a console game called Dimension Web I started playing." Itsuki argued.
"Dimension Web? I haven't—"
"Your both wrong, this place is exactly like a VRMMO I play called Brave Star Online."
"That's strange, I haven't heard of any of these games. I got transported here after I started playing a new MMOJRPG called Amethyst Online. The trailers all seem very similar to this place." Kenjiro stated surprising the group.
"MMOJRPG? I don't think I've ever seen a game like that." Naofumi admitted.
"Ren, do you actually mean a VRMMO?" Motoyasu asked, receiving a nod from Ren. "I assume that everyone here at least understands that concept, so at the minimum we're from different time periods. Alright lets compare general knowledge. Who's face is on the 1000-yen bill. 1…. 2… !"
"Yawara Gotaro"
"Yuda Masato"
"Kodaka Enichi"
"Noguchi Hideyo"
"Yukichi Fukuzawa"
Each member of the Heroes said a differing name in unison, followed by a collective 'What'. After several moments of questions and vastly differing answers, the group had come to an interesting conclusion as Itsuki pointed out " It seems like we're all from different versions of Japan."
"Looks like it, the sound nothing alike." Ren added.
"I thought we might just be from different eras, but I guess not." Motoyasu said puzzled.
"It seems we all came through differing means, however Naofumi, you said yours was through a light novel, right? Did it explain any of this outside of the plot?" Kenjiro asked.
"Not really, I only got to the hero introductions before it sucked me into this world." Naofumi admitted discouraged. Noticing a solemn tone in the room he continued his questions. "What's up?"
"Its just that… since you're the shield hero." Itsuki began.
"What's wrong with that?"
"He doesn't know, alright don't worry, Motoyasu's got you covered. The shielder class is, well it's for losers and low-level gamers. No high level players use it." Motoyasu said, ripping off the band aid.
"NOOOOO!" Naofumi yelled in agony. "How about you guys?!'
"Sorry." Ren said reluctantly.
"Likewise." Itsuki added.
"I wouldn't know, but based on other MMO's I've played, its probably the case." Kenjiro said as he watched Naofumi's hope dissipate. Falling over onto the sofa. As the three heroes aside from Naofumi began talking about their common knowledge about their games and experiences, Kenjiro sat in thought.
"So it seems that we have two differences. It seems like I wasn't even supposed to be here, let alone be a mage hero. I don't think I even have a real weapon, so It doesn't make sense for me to be a cardinal hero. Then there's Naofumi. It seems, like me, we didn't get that much exposure to the world before we were dragged in. If I didn't know any better, I'd think that we were chosen pretty quick compared to the other guys, who seem to have been fairly acquainted with the setting. Why would that be the case?" Kenjiro thought as he sat contemplating the irregularities. "Perhaps there was a certain condition or something that was met for each of us? Or maybe—"
"My adventure starts tomorrow!" Naofumi exclaimed determied from the balcony as he had seemingly snuck away while everyone was preoccupied.
"He has the right idea I guess, at least he's staying positive." Kenjiro thought with a smile as he looked up at the other smiling guys determined. "Our adventure really will begin tomorrow then."
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
After a peaceful night's rest in the palace, the five heroes were once again summoned to the throne room. As Kenjiro entered with the rest he noticed a line of about twelve warriors. "So these are the 'best of the best' adventurers in this world. Assuming that this is seemingly the starting city, I don't have high hopes." Kenjiro thought as the king began his speech.
"From what I have been told, it seems that the Shield and Mage Heroes have limited knowledge of our land. This is also counter to what the prophecy explains. It makes sense as the Mage Hero himself is an anomaly, but the Shield Hero being even more unaware then him is, quite frankly it's troubling." The king began.
"Wait how do you know that? Is it really that bad?" Naofumi questioned.
"Someone was likely eavesdropping on our conversation last night." Motoyasu whispered towards the frantic man.
"Hmm, it seems that the king is just as curious as us." Kenjiro thought as he chose to speak. "Is this going to be a major issue?"
"That is what makes it troubling. This could be a benefit or a detriment. It is unknown to us. For the time being let us continue with the task at hand." The said, attempting to return to the more pressing matter. "Before you stand the best fighters that this kingdom has to offer. At this time it is time to form the parties that will aid you throughout your journey." The king explained. Following this explanation the dozen adventurers began marching their way towards the five of them.
"So they choose. I can see why this inconsistent prophecy could be a problem." Kenjiro thought as looked at the aftermath of the choosing. Sure enough both himself an Naofumi were left with no party members. Comparatively Ren had five, Itsuki had four, and Motoyasu claimed three.
"This is certainly unexpected." The king said as he looked at the groups puzzled.
"Are you serious?! Not a single person?" Naofumi explained.
"Calm down." Kenjiro cut in. "Its only natural for them to have doubts about us."
"Well yeah… but come on, Ren you don't seriously need five people, do you?!" Naofumi pleaded desperately.
"Frankly, I'm more of a loner myself, I wouldn't really care if you took all of them." Ren stated calmly.
"Lord Motoyasu, would you give me permission to join the Shield Hero's party?" a red headed woman from the back of Motoyasu's party requested.
"I mean sure, but are you sure?" Motoyasu stated reluctantly.
"Mhm, I'm sure." The woman answered in an admittedly cute fashion, making Motoyasu even more reluctant.
"Are you certain." The king asked in a confused tone.
"Yes my lord, I wish to aid the Shield Hero." The woman replied confidently.
"Very well, are there any other adventurers that would like to switch parties?" The king asked hesitantly.
"If I may interrupt." Kenjiro began, gaining the kings attention. "I would prefer starting alone, however," Kenjiro faced towards the parties. "Would any of you adventurers be willing to show me around the capital tomorrow? I could really use the expertise." Kenjiro admitted embarrassed.
"Lord Ren, may I aid the Mage Hero for a short time? That way he has a proper guide?" a woman with long dark hair, and what looked like a traditional Chinese outfit requested.
"I don't mind." Ren stated as dispassionately as before, giving the go ahead for the girl to walk her way over to stand behind Kenjiro.
"If there are no more alterations, allow me to bestow upon you a beginning sum of money." The king continued as five servants approached the group. "For everyone, you are receiving a total of 600 silver coins. The Mage and Shield however, you shall receive 700, due to your seemingly crippled starts." The king graciously added, as each Hero was awarded with their money. "Now, Heroes, begin your quest to end the nightmare that is the waves, and rid them from this world!"
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
After exiting the castle and making their way to the gates the heroes gave each other the first goodbyes before beginning their own adventures. Bringing up the rear of the group, Kenjiro witnessed the plight of Motoyasu as he jealously said to Naofumi, "You better take care of her alright?"
"Don't worry Motoyasu, that's kinda my job." Naofumi jested, holding up his shield arm.
Giving Naofumi a smile he exited the walls with the other two weapon heroes. As they were the last two left Naofumi asked a fair question. "Hey Kenjiro, you ain't going to grind yet either?"
No actually, I was going to have…" Kenjiro paused for a moment. "Oh I almost forgot, what's your name?" Kenjiro asked the dark haired monk.
"Oh my name is Daiyu Xiao, I'm a level 10 monk specialized in my father's marital art form." Daiyu introduced herself in an upbeat yet embarrassed manner.
"Thanks! My name is Kenjiro Saito, and to answer your question Naofumi, I was going to get some beginning equipment, get to know the city, and stop at a store that specializes in magic or something of the sorts." Kenjiro explained. "After that I was thinking about getting some basic leveling done to get the basics down before I brought Daiyu back to Ren."
"I was thinking the same thing, but I'm probably gonna skip out on the tour and magic stops, I really need to get some good leveling done." Naofumi admitted. "By the way, what's your name?" Naofumi questioned the red headed girl.
"My name is Myne Sophia. Lucky for you two I know the best smith in the city." Myne explained causing both the boys to become exited.
"Are you thinking of Erhard's?" Daiyu questioned.
"Exactly!" Myne answered in her own exited tone.
Following the meet and greet of the four adventurers, they made their way to Erhard's shop down in the city streets. Naofumi was noticeably enticed by the bubbly Myne based on the looks he was giving off. Kenjiro was taking in the sights of the city, amazed by how beautiful it was as Daiyu excitedly pointed out various eateries, shops, and landmarks that interested the pair. Arriving at the shop the four were greeted by a muscular bald man with a multitude of scars, and a beard that pointed in three directions.
"Welcome to my shop. What can I do for you guys today." The man began in a cheery attitude.
"Well my friend here said you had the best shop in the city, so we decided to come and get some starting gear here." Naofumi explained.
"Well she has a great eye." The man, most likely to be Erhard, paused for a moment. "I feel like I know you from somewhere."
"I've come in from time to time but I'm usually with a group, I tend to sit back normally but since I'm the guide it's a bit different." Myne answered innocently as she explained.
"That makes sense, so what can I do for you guys?"
Kenjiro began to speak first. "I was wondering if you had anything that was both light, but also protective. I'm a mage but I've never been fond of robes and the like. My plan is to see if theirs a battlemage option for me in the future." Kenjiro replied with an embarrassing pose causing his group to laugh at him. "What! Robes are boring!"
"That's fair enough." Naofumi said while laughing. "I was just here to get something protective. My budget is about 250 silver." Naofumi explained.
"Mine is about 200 silver as well, almost forgot." Kenjiro said embarrassed.
"200? You sure about that?" Daiyu questioned.
"Yeah, I have 700 so I can afford it, I plan on capping myself at spending only 450-500 today so I have money for food and shelter." Kenjiro explained.
"I'm also planning on getting a sword or—" Naofumi was cut off as he tried to pick up one of the display swords, getting zapped, dropping it back onto the table. "OW! What the?"
Caution: Legendary Rule Violation
"Here let me try—" Kenjiro began as he was similarly shocked by the weapon. "Ow!" He said with a quieter tone.
"Here let me take a look at that shield." Erhard said hoping to solve this mystery. After several moments of using his appraisal magic, he stood to give his findings. "Even with my high-level appraisal magic it's hard to say, but based on the reaction its safe to assume you can't use anything aside from your assigned weapons." Erhard explained.
"Aw seriously?!" Naofumi deflated.
"Don't worry, I'm sure you should be fine with my help." Myne said comforting her leader.
"Well since you seem to have more of a budget for your armor, I have something for the both of you." Erhard responded as he showed the two to the armors. "Naofumi was it? This chainmail is the best protection I have for your price, normally it would be a bit more expensive, but you and your friends are entertaining, plus she has a good eye for talent." Erhard said with a finger pointed towards Myne, who reflexively blushed in embarrassment.
"I'll take it." Naofumi exclaimed excitedly, handing the vendor his payment. "I'm gonna change into this real quick, this tracksuit isn't going to cut it."
Kenjiro looked at his own attire. He was wearing his favorite purple and grey hoodie, and a pair of sweatpants. After Naofumi went into a room to change, Erhard continued. "For you I have something special. Like Naofumi your getting a slight discount, but this armor is worth it. It ain't metal, but this grey leather armor is nearly as tough as that chainmail, and additionally it comes with a matching purple cloak that boosts your mana regeneration, almost like it was made for you" Erhard said with a smile.
"That IS perfect! Here have 220!" Kenjiro exclaimed. "Keep the tip!" He excitedly ordered as he sprinted to a stall with the armor.
Following the shop visit the two parties went their separate ways. While they were Changing Myne invited Daiyu and Kenjiro to a nice restaurant she planned on taking Naofumi to after they finished leveling for the day, but the two ended up declining in favor of visiting a local tavern with Ren. As Kenjiro and Daiyu made their way up and down the streets, sightseeing, and shopping for various items such as potions, camping equipment, and the like, they eventually ended up in a witch's shop.
"Welcome adventurers, how may I help you today." The witch greeted in a polite manner.
"I was wondering if you had anything you'd recommend for novice magic adventurers, ya know stuff that should be basic for any mage." Kenjiro explained.
"Well aside from the normal potions, I would recommend allowing me to determine your magic affinities with this crystal ball." She said gesturing to the item. "Also I would recommend at least some form of magical conduit, a staff or a wand, something like that."
"Would this count?" Kenjiro questioned, showing his vambrace.
"Yep, that should do it." The witch explained mesmerized. "That there bracer is unique to say the least."
"How so?" Kenjiro explained as he went to inspect the device.
"If I'm correct, you should be able to transform the brace into different forms of conduits. Each one has it's upsides and downsides, but the one you currently are using is fairly balanced." The witch explained. "Looks to me like the other setting is a staff."
"Really? Let me try something…" Kenjiro outstretched his hand, and as he concentrated, his bracer transformed itself into a long staff that had a similar make to the other legendary weapons, his gem adorning the top.
"Amazing!" Daiyu exclaimed as she was mesmerized by the transformation.
"Staffs are more powerful then items like a bracelet or vambrace, but their also more cumbersome, harder to switch from attacks, and draining more mana." The witch explained. The vambrace you were wearing is faster, and powerful, overall the more practical in surprise, and less dire situations. Then there are wands, only beating the others in speed to cast. The reason its more popular, and my favorite it is because it requires the least amount of mana to use." The witch explained.
"Interesting." Kenjiro stated as he turned the staff into his vambrace once more.
"That sure sounds like a Cardinal weapon, even if it wasn't prophesied." Daiyu assessed, surprising Kenjiro. "I guess we should feel lucky to have you here." She said with excitement.
"Since I guess you don't need a conduit, how about I take a look at your affinities and sell you a few potions, perhaps a grimoire. We'll say about 150 silver and that should be even." The witch pronounced as she grabbed about ten potions, five health and five mana, along with the grimoire.
"Sounds good to me." Kenjiro agreed as he sat a pouch of money on the counter.
"Alrighty then, would you walk over and make contact with the ball." The witch requested.
"No problem." Kenjiro stated as he did as he was told.
"Hold on a moment…this is highly irregular." The witch said astonished yet again.
"What's wrong?!" Kenjiro asked panicked.
"Nothings wrong its just… it seems you have an affinity for nearly every type of magic." The witch stated in shock.
Unfazed at this point, Daiyu began saying, "Well if he really is a Mage Hero, I guess it would make sense he at least has the potential to cast any element."
"You keep saying Mage Hero. Was the prophecy not only for the four Cardinal weapons?" the witch asked.
"There was an anomaly with the summoning, and as a result, somehow Kenjiro was transported here as the apparent Mage Hero. We have no idea why." Daiyu explained.
"That is most amazing." The witch continued. "I guess I shouldn't keep you from your duties then sir hero, thank you for coming to my shop." The witch said hastily, not wanting to hold up the hero. "If you have any other magical needs do not hesitate to stop by!" the witch finished, handing the hero a satchel with his purchases.
"Thank you!" the hero said in a moment of shock and joy. "I wont hesitate!" He finished as he left the shop with Daiyu, out to finally begin training.
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
"I can't quite understand the rest of the book, but I was able to read about this one spell." Kenjiro explained to Daiyu. The two had made their way to the fields right next to the walls of the city. It was nearly dusk so they wouldn't be there long. "Spark, is the name of it." Kenjiro explained.
"Alright but before we do any real fighting, I need to show you the basics. Since we aren't in a party, we won't share any EXP." Daiyu explained as she hammer-fisted a yellow balloon with glowing red eyes, and a spiky jaw. This showed a +5 EXP graphic popping up next to her.
"I see, and since your going to be with Ren you shouldn't party with me. Alright, I guess it's time to try out my first spell." Kenjiro began as he aimed his hand towards a balloon creature that Daiyu was holding, while also reading the grimoire with the other hand as to not mess up. "Spark!" He exclaimed as a thin purple bolt of light instantly zapped the balloon before quickly dissipating, however upon impact nothing happened.
"Uhh… was that supposed to happen?" Daiyu asked confused.
"Oh shit, I forgot that lightning doesn't affect rubber, no wonder it didn't work." Kenjiro said as he metaphorically kicked himself.
"Don't worry, we'll just have to try something else." Daiyu said as she threw the balloon up, roundhouse kicking the balloon as it fell back down. "I guess you could try it on me." Daiyu suggested.
"Are you sure about that? What if the spell does a lot of damage?" Kenjiro said skeptically as Daiyu waited.
"Well you have potions, and I don't think a low-level spell like that is going to take me down in one shot, I mean I'm a level 10 monk compared to a level one mages weak attack." Daiyu explained in an attempt to convince the boy.
"Alright, I guess you have a point." Kenjiro relented as he and Daiyu prepared for the attack. "Spark!" Kenjiro roared as a single tendril of purple lightning extended from his fingertips, hitting Daiyu. To his shock the attack actually left a mark, causing the monk to flinch. "Are you okay?!" Kenjiro exclaimed panicked.
"I'm fine but that actually hurt a lot more than I expected." Daiyo explained as she rubbed her shoulder where the attack hit. According to her stats the attack did about twenty damage. Compared to his 120 health that could be quite powerful, but to the monk it was nothing.
"Its not flashy but that lightning is fairly potent." Kenjiro said as a message appeared before him.
Lightning Affinity Level Up: ^2
Mage Level Up: ^2
Affinity Unlocked: Fire
Followed by an upgrade tree showing the progression as well. Looking at the screen he took another look at his grimoire. unexpectedly, two more spells had become readable. There was Sparks, seemingly a better version of spark, along with Flame. On top of that there was the ability to simply summon electricity to the fingertips, along with a similar ability for fire.
"It looks like since I was a high enough level, using that weak of magic just boosted it strait to the next level." Daiyu concluded. "Hey, I just noticed something."
"What's that?" Kenjiro asked looking at his spells exited.
"You haven't needed to chant an incantation before casting a spell." Daiyu explained, puzzling the mage.
"What do you mean?"
"Here let me show you." Daiyu then prepared herself before beginning a chant. "I am a daughter of the fist. I have read and deciphered the laws of nature. May the power of my ancestors guide me. Zweit Fire Fist!" Daiyu chanted as she proceeded to smash an enflamed fist into an unfortunate grouping of balloons.
After recovering from his daze of amazement, Kenjiro began thinking. "Perhaps it has something to do with this." He explained, holding up his brace, attempting to determine the cause. "It may just be a benefit of wielding the cardinal weapon, or maybe its just that you don't really need to chant." Kenjiro suggested.
"That can't be the case, my old grimoire told me the words I was supposed to speak to use the power." Daiyu explained.
"Let me check my abilities." Kenjiro stated as he began searching through his set abilities. "I think I found it." Under his Mage Hero tree he found an inherent ability exclusive to the cardinal weapons. It appears their magical attacks using the weapon themselves didn't require a chant, however any magic outside of that was not included. After reading this out to Daiyu she had an epiphany.
"Since you're the mage hero, and your weapon inherently only uses any magic, I guess then that would apply to you." She explained, causing Kenjiro to nod in agreement.
"If that's the case then I guess I might as well start leveling up as much as I can before we turn in." Kenjiro stated as he blasted a balloon with a small purple flame, destroying the monster, and awarding him his first real EXP. "Purple flames huh? I guess my attacks are gonna have a pretty unique theme."
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
Following an hour of grinding, Kenjiro was able to boost himself an additional level, along with unlocking a few more spells outside of the elements. Namely minor healing spell, and a few investigative abilities such as a low-level appraisal and a low-level lock picking spell. After deciding to turn in for the night, Daiyu and Kenjiro made their way to a tavern where Ren had told them to meet. Once the two arrived they were met with not only Ren and his party, but Ituski's as well.
"Hey they made it!" Itsuki explained as they entered the tavern. "Now all we're waiting on is Motoyasu and Naofumi."
"Actually Naofumi and Myne are going to a high-end restaurant so I think its just Motoyasu." Kenjiro explained.
"I'm glad to see you brought her back." Ren said with a hint of gratitude.
"No problem Thanks for allowing her to help me out." Kenjiro replied, then turning to Daiyu. "Thanks for your help today."
"No problem! Let me know if you ever need some more help if I'm ever in town." Daiyu replied as a she then accepted a party invite from Ren.
"Sounds good. Anyways, how did everyone's grind go?" Kenjiro asked as he took a seat with the other two hero's as Daiyu joined the other adventurers.
"I was able to get to level 5 in the woods, but I actually turned in pretty early to take in the sights." Itsuki explained as a waitress arrived with a mug, handing it to the young man.
"I was training for the entire day, I made it all the way to level 8, even picked up a few useful weapon skills like my crimson blade attack." Ren explained.
"I have a few too, but only wind-based arrow attacks." Itsuki frowned.
"Did you guys ever get your magic affinities checked?" Kenjiro asked.
"No? you did?" Ren asked.
"Yeah, I didn't train too much today, I only managed to get to level 3, but I got to know the city, grabbed this armor, looked around some more, then I made my way to a magical shop where I figured out that since I'm the mage hero, I have nearly every magical affinity." Kenjiro casually explained, shocking the two.
"Every magical affinity?" Itsuki asked astonished.
"Even things like necromancy or curse magic?" Ren asked intrigued.
"I would guess its possible, but I've only unlocked fire, lightning, support, and some miscellaneous spells." Kenjiro answered as he transformed his brace into a staff, shocking the pair again. "The problem I'm having is that I have next to know physical attack strength, which makes sense, but even with a little coaching from a monk specializing in unarmed combat, I may have some technique, but all of my experience from my own world has basically gone down the toilet." Kenjiro explained a s he began to deflate.
"I mean that makes sense for now, but what about buff magic? Wouldn't that make you attacks more powerful?" Itsuki asked.
"Maybe, that's what I'm hoping for but it's not likely with my measly strength stats." Kenjiro finished.
"So could you take us to this shop tomorrow so we can check our own affinities?" Ren asked stoically, allowing some interest bleed into his tone.
"Of course man! You helped me out today, so it's the least I can do. You interested Itsuki?" Kenjiro responded, happy he's getting along with the other heroes.
"Sounds like a plan! Maybe once Motoyasu gets here we can—"
The door to the tavern was suddenly kicked open as a frantic Motoyasu, along with his party burst into the room.
"Motoyasu?! What's going on?!" Itsuki exclaimed in a confused tone. "And why is she with you?"
Hearing this, Kenjiro turned around to see Myne in the middle of sobbing into Motoyasu's chest. Standing up quickly, making his way to her he quickly closed the distance. "Myne, Are you alright? What happened? Where's Naofumi?" He rattled off, not pausing in between questions.
Answering for the adventurer Motoyasu spoke in an angry and violent tone. "She's definitely not alright! That monster Naofumi tried to have his way with her!"
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
Kenjiro stood with the remaining for heroes inside the throne room. Next to Motoyasu was Myne, clinging onto him for protection. Sitting behind them on his throne as a disgusted king. Surrounding the room was a contingent of guards, prepared for anything, and all Kenjiro could think to himself, was "Why?"
As the doors opened, followed by Naofumi, no longer wearing any of his gear outside of some rags, and is shield, was being escorted by several guards. As they entered the throne room Naofumi was thrown onto the floor before two guards angled their spears at his throat, followed closely by the rest of the escort team pointing them at his back.
"Myne! Your alright!" He exclaimed, causing the woman to cower further behind Motoyasu.
"Myne?" Naofumi responded in shock, then turning his attention to the king. "Yo king! Someone stole all of my money and gear while I was asleep, I need you to find the thief and—"
"SILENCE YOU BASTARD!" The king roared, shocking the criminal.
"What's that for?" Naofumi responded in shock once more.
"Myne, I apologize for asking this of you again, but could you testify once more?" the king said with a heavy heart.
"When the Shield Hero came back to our rooms… he was really drunk." Myne started as she began sobbing. "He barged into my room and tried to… tried too." She began sobbing uncontrollably as her voice began to shake. "Have his way with me." She finished quietly.
Looking at the woman in clear distress Kenjiro could only feel terrible. A sentiment shared by the other heroes, aside from Naofumi, who was more confused. "How could he be so low as to try and act dumb." Kenjiro thought while clenching his fist, remembering all the times in his past how he reacted to these kinds of situations.
"What?!" Naofumi exclaimed in a clueless tone, affirming Kenjiro's thoughts.
"After I somehow managed to escape, I made my way back to Sir Motoyasu, and then I told him everything." Myne added following the Shield's charade.
"If it weren't for Myne asking me to wait till dawn to call the knights, I'd have cut you down myself last night!" Motoyasu roared.
"Wait… that chainmail! You were the robber! I bought that yesterday with Myne and—" Naofumi paused. " and Kenjiro! Kenjiro you were there, you saw it!" Naofumi exclaimed as all eyes fell onto him.
"This was a gift from Myne from after she met up with me." Motoyasu exclaimed with confidence.
After observing the armor Kenjiro felt something strange, hesitance. "That may be true, but that is indeed Naofumi's." Kenjiro said flabbergasted. That was until Myne spoke up.
"I grabbed it to cover myself, so I wasn't walking down the streets… naked… after he clothed me, I gave it to Motoyasu." Myne explained shakily.
"How could you do such a thing." Itsuki reprimanded the criminal.
"That never happened! After dinner I went straight to bed!" Naofumi pleaded.
"To think that the Shield Hero would commit one of the gravest sins in this country. If you weren't a Cardinal Hero, you would be executed where you stand!" the King barked at the seemingly lost hero.
"This is all wrong! If you really think I did it then show me the proof!" Naofumi exclaimed, however as soon as he did, a knight marched to the front.
"These were found in Naofumi's room." The night said as he cringed in anger, showing the group an exquisite looking bra, causing Myne to scream, hiding behind Motoyasu once more.
"YOU ANIMAL!" Motoyasu screamed.
Kenjiro began walking towards the knight as Naofumi gave him a face that twinkled with a hint of hope, and the king looked at him angry. "What is the meaning of this Mage." He boomed.
"Forgive me for being cautious, however I have a skill that may be able to help us cement this." Kenjiro explained angrily through his teeth.
As Kenjiro arrived at the knight he stared Naofumi in the eyes. What he saw was conflicting. As he got a closer look, as he stared back at him, Naofumi looked genuine. Looking back to the task at hand he used his new appraisal skill on the bra, and he was made even more conflicted. He expected to be angrier, but he was also… upset. Why? "This do indeed belong to Myne…". He said solemnly as he gave Naofumi one more look, seeing all the hope drain from his eyes. The statement sent the room into a multitude of angry scowls Rechecking the evidence he confirmed it had not changed, however when he looked back to Naofumi, his eyes were filled with pure hatred, he didn't know what Naofumi saw, but something changed.
"Too bad, I had hoped that there would have been some misunderstanding." Itsuki said.
"Since he's a hero he thinks he can do anything he wants." Ren added.
"You tricked me! This was a setup all along!" Naofumi exploded, causing Myne to cower behind the Spear Hero once again.
"How dare you!" Motoyasu exclaimed.
"Refusing to admit guilt and throwing out baseless accusations? Pathetic." Ren once again chimed in.
Kenjiro was completely confused by everything that was happening now. It seemed like everyone was telling the truth, but how?
"Whatever… I'm done with this shit! Just send me back to my world, pick a new hero I don't care!" Naofumi roared once again.
"I would love nothing more, but the prophecy states that the heroes cannot be resummoned until all of the previous heroes have been slain." The king responded as the heroes all let out a surprised gasp.
"SCREW THAT!" Naofumi raged, creating a barrier that knocked away all the guards. As they attempted to surround him once more, he roared once again. "STAY AWAY!", knocking them down once again.
"Barely any training and his defense is already that high?!" Kenjiro thought.
"So are you going to just imprison me, or are you going to let me get stronger." He calmly stated with a newfound bitterness.
"The wave is far to close, and they are to large a threat. You will still need to gain strength but take heed you will not be able to live a good life in this kingdom.
"Are you sure that's wise?" Motoyasu began. "We have another Hero already, and besides who wants to fight alongside a weakling and a rapist—"
"SHUT YOUR MOUTH!" Naofumi continued, scaring the entire room. Following this outburst he began walking away. Searching his pockets he grabbed the last of his coins, throwing them onto the floor at Myne's feet. "There take'em, that's what you wanted right?! Shove'em up your ass!" He exclaimed as he continued his exit.
"Naofumi, hold on!" Kenjiro tried stopping him, grabbing his arm. As Kenjiro stared into the bitter eyes of Naofumi, he knew something was wrong. Just not what.
"Let go, I'm weak remember? I need to go train." He said without any anger, only sadness, as he ripped his arm away, and left the room, answering nothing, only leaving Kenjiro with more questions.
O~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~O
Authors Notes: And thus concludes my pilot for this fic. I hope you guys enjoyed! If there are any readers coming over from my other story, don't worry, this isn't going to affect the releases of those chapters. For those new people, this is where I plan on explaining any creative liberties, I may have undergone to properly explain any changes or decisions I make. To get started, the concept of the incorrect prophecy had me intrigued when I first thought of it, making it a story point should be an enjoyable experience for you guys and myself. In terms of Kenjiro's abilities, I don't intend on explaining every attack whenever he learns one as it would be absurd. I am however going to explain if it means covering plot holes like not having him chant every spell or explaining any bonuses, he may get because of magic specifically. The character of Daiyu Xiao is one that I decided to breathe life into as she was a background character in canon, not to mention I thought her design (outside of hair color) was cool enough to want to make her a side character. Depending on popularity, she may come back occasionally, possibly permanently ;). This chapter was fairly on rails with canon, so I don't change up too much in such a short amount of time, allowing me to keep the story true to the original. If you have any questions don't hesitate to leave a review, or PM me. As a warning I don't know how to get PM notifications so if I don't answer immediately that is why. Anyways, I hope you join me in the next chapter [ Aftermath and Growth ].