Hey! Sorry for the slow update. Busy with work and some other stuff that I need to prioritize. Plus, this chapter was a bit boring for me to write lol. First off, I would like to give big thanks to Qinlongfei for Beta reading, pointing out a few grammar, and suggested me with ideas that I found very useful. Anyway, I have a few things I want to mention at the end, so for now, please enjoy.
Another peaceful day on the outside capital of Melromarc, where the bright sunlight rays upon the earth. A gust of wind rushed through the open grass field. Many rounded orange balls could be seen going about their own business, bouncing up and down, attempting to catch the colorful butterfly flying above them.
Yes, just another fine morning on the outside field of the capital.
Though, a certain redhead would like to say otherwise.
After what happened last night with her partner, Malty decided to spend her stressful night in a first-class hotel. Where they served her with splendid luxury such as; a warm bubble bath, high-quality wine, and most of all, a very comfortable king-size bed all for herself.
While she could return to the castle for all those royal privileges, the castle itself could hardly offer any high-quality item. While having the best service than any other place, they lack quality food, refreshment, etc.
Why is it, though?
Isn't the castle supposed to possess everything everyone could ever wish for? How can a high-class hotel be more luxurious?
It's because of the recent war.
After the war between the kingdom of men, Melromarc, and the kingdom of demi-human, Siltvelt, the treasury of the royal family was nearly empty. Her father and teachers told her the war was gruesome and had devastated the two kingdoms. It was so bad that Siltvelt almost fell apart if it weren't for the current Siltvelt King, also known as the Axe Vassel Hero or what everyone calls him, the Lion King. He somehow held everything together and managed to turn the ties of war. Her father said he was his rival in terms of tactic and strategy. Still, in combat, her father, a Vassal of the Staff, admitted his defeat to the Lion King.
But never mind that right now; currently, she is with the Sword Hero's party. After she refreshed herself last night, she is ready for what's to come!
At least she thought so.
Confused and exhausted, as it seems that all that energy she replenished from last night just suddenly vanished in a blink of an eye. Why... Exhaust breath escapes her lip as she massages her temple, wondering to herself if all of this is just some sick joke from god himself. "Please tell me this is just some sort of joke?" She said as she slowly dragged her hand down along her face after she finished massaging her forehead.
"No, I'm afraid we're not joking, Your Highness... As much as I wish otherwise." The man in full plate armor said to her in disappointment. If Malty remembers this muscle-head with a thick mustache correctly, he is one of the nobles of this kingdom.
But not important enough to be recognized by her, or should she bother to remember his name. If anyone hasn't gotten into her radar yet, she will deem them useless to her goal.
Malty looks toward the other four members of the Sword Hero party and says, "Is what he's saying true?" She crossed her arm and gave them one hell of a stern look. "Because I refuse to believe that the Sword Hero, Sir Ren, kindly told his companions to fuck off and do their own things!" Yet again, she let out another tiresome sigh.
"P-please Your Highness. Lord Ren did not say it in such a rude manner!" The mage in a thick coat tried to defend his hero while the other three nodded eagerly. "In fact, according to Lord Ren, he explains to us that by being separated, he can gain much more experience!" If Malty has, to be honest, he looks more like trying to convince himself. "Also, Lord Ren said he wishes to do things by himself; unless, of course, he's going to be hunting something dangerous." He added before suddenly becoming dejected. "He won't be needing our assistance... For now."
Malty couldn't believe what she was hearing. While it's true that by being separate, the Sword Hero will be able to make sure that all of the experiences count toward him entirely. For example, if she were the one that lands the killing blow while in the party, she would gain full experience from that kill. While the rest of the company will receive half of the amount as shared. Great, right? But that is it. If the Sword Hero were to have gone with his party member to hunt monsters, he would be getting half or less of the experience since they will be killing alongside him.
But that means, what is the point of having companions if he will not work alongside them?
If the Sword Hero desired to be isolated, he could have given the Shield Hero some in the first place, then maybe they didn't have to fight-!
She froze.
It's not the time to be thinking about that! Now that she remembers, he did offer the Shield Hero some if not all of them to him, but most protested and showed their desire to stay with the edge lord.
But, it's not like any of this is necessary anymore. So, what is Malty next move? Stay or leave?
Malty desires a hero to support her in both fame and ambition! Clearly, this is not going to work! While she could literally take over the Sword Hero's party behind his back and take charge, she will not do it. Malty has the confidence to pull it off, of course. But that's not how the way she wants to do things. Not when the throne is on the line.
Sighing to herself, she thought, I hope the other two are not as weird as this. Malty slowly turned around."Well, in this case, I don't think I belong here," She said as she began heading back to the city. "Please do tell him that I wish him good luck. And if he ever does show some sign of cooperation, please be sure to inform me." Malty walks away from them and makes her way to the city with one person in mind.
The Bow Hero. She began to remember the young boy. Even though she only managed to observe him for a short time. Malty somewhat gets the gasp of the boy persona. He seems to think highly of himself and always voice his opinion like it matters the most. She thought with a frown. But suddenly, a smirk began to creep its way upon her lip. I still can make it work. An arrogant, naive, and self-important person can be led by the nose. Like leading a pig with a carrot on a stick-! Malty quickly shakes the sinister thought away. Bad, bad Malty! She swore she would do things the right way. So no scheming!
She continued to make her way toward the gate. After she arrived, Malty asked some of the guards if they had seen the Bow Hero. Luckily for her, one of the city Patrol guards that passed by did spot the Bow Hero having breakfast in one of the inns with his companions.
With that said, off to she goes.
After she manages to find the Bow Hero and his companions, she expresses her desire to venture with him. He did ask Malty what happened between her and the Shield Hero. While she could say that he abandoned her and portrayed him on the darker side. It would be pitiful of her to be making such a desperate move, so she merely said they had a minor disagreement and decided best to separate.
The Bow Hero seems skeptical at first but ultimately lets her in without further inquiry.
Shortly after they depart from the inn, that thick mustaches in heavy armor from Ren's party show up and beg Sir Itsuki to let him in as well. Saying how the Sword Hero is not cooperating and that Sir Itsuki is the only one with real potential.
To her disrelishes. It was probably the most apparent lip service she had ever heard. However, the same could not be said to the Bow Hero as he bought the fool's word immediately without a doubt and let him in as well.
One of the many abilities that her teachers taught her is reading and analyzing individuals. Back in the day, in her pre-teen. Master Aldrecht, her father's adviser, was teaching her the way of observation. He told her, to become the future queen, she must be able to separate the backstabbers and the faithful supporters. This ability is not merely a valuable tool for the throne but an overall advantageous ability when walking on a dangerous path. With that said, what does this advantageous is telling her now?
Is that this fool just reeks with self-righteousness and a big fat of a fraud!
It didn't take them long to reach the hunting ground for Wild Boar. Too weak for her taste, but it had to do for now. Since she wishes to see how the Bow Hero operates, if he is suitable or not, or perhaps is the kind of person that easily tilts.
"Alright, since Princess Malty and Mald are new here, let's change our battle formation." Sir Itsuki said, then turned toward the heavy warrior. "Mald, since you're the big one here, can I ask you to be our vanguard?"
Mald pumped his chest upward proudly. "Of course, Lord Itsuki! To be able to figure out my expertise. Truly I made the right choice!"
Malty was able to contain the urge to roll her eyes. Where a fool like him found that mouth of his is beyond her. Probably from his mother, whoring her way to his father.
Surprisingly enough, the Bow Hero seems to take that compliment very well. It's undeniable with that pleasant look on his face.
"Thank you, Mald." Sir Itsuki nodded. "To be honest with you, I'm very pleased to have you join my party as well." He then gestures toward another tall man, almost as tall as Mald but with less armor. "Although we already have Rojeel as the vanguard, it should be fine to have another addition."
No, let's just kick that boot licker and keep the other one. He seems quiet and not annoying. Malty thought to herself, wishing she could have told the Bow Hero exactly just that.
"Now that we're done with him," Sir Itsuki said and turned to her with curious looks. "I don't know much about you, princess. Besides the fact that Naofumi mentioned you could cast spells and that you're level 29."
Malty merely nodded. "Yes, before Sir Itsuki and the rest got here, I've been training magic from Grandmaster Raymond and Swordsmanship from Captain Torn. Both of them belong in their own league." Malty tells him with pride in her tone. Although Master Torn has told her, while she is skilled in sword technique, she is still not as strong as the offspring of Lord Seaetto, Eclair Seaetto.
While Malty herself never sparred with her before, it's rumored that Lady Eclair Seaetto has been groomed to be an escort knight. It can't be her mother, the Queen, since she already has one. That only leaves it to either her or her sister...
"So, magic and sword, huh?" The Bow Hero looked thoughtful for a second before nodding. "Then you can be with Welst and support the vanguard with magic and only use your sword to defense from flanking enemies?"
...What? She thought.
"With that said, Alena can join the frontline since Princess Malty can defend the rear."
"As Lord Itsuki commanded!" The spear girl gives Malty a quick sorry glance.
Hold on just a second! I'm not a babysitter! Oh, how Malty wishes she could show that spear girl her place! I'll give it to you, just you wait! But for now, she must remember she only wishes to observe. But it doesn't make sense to even bother putting someone of my caliber in the rear... unless. It is either he is incapable or has a secret motive.
If it is the latter, then she wishes to know why…
But for now, she smiles and says, "Then please, leave it to me, Sir Itsuki." she is just going to be observing.
"Alright then, let's begin." The Bow Hero smiles broadly and readies his bow. Everyone follows.
Since their party was filled, Sir Itsuki decided to be bold and lure in the big group of Wild Boars.
They've been fighting for a while now, and Malty was surprisingly impressed by how smooth the progress went. The vanguard would provoke the enemies and hold the front line, and the backline would support the frontline by buffing. Overall, not bad.
But then she noticed something, and it's really starting to piss her off...
"Eat this!" The spear girl thrust her spear at the charging boar, killing it instantly.
"HHAAA!" Mald swung down his longsword toward the stunted boar, killing it brutally.
Boring... Malty lost track of how many times she had almost yawned in the middle of the fight. She was staring ahead, envying the people in front of her, getting all the action. If only she could just blow them all up alongside the horde of Wild Boars, roasting them all, for all she cared.
"Fast Guard!" The mage cast a support spell.
Malty looks sideways at the mage beside her, buffing all three warriors, one by one with defense buffs. She then looks away and starts scanning the area. All around them are a bunch of dead oversize pigs, and the majority of the corpses have at least one arrow sticking out of their head.
She gritted her teeth, fighting the urge to turn around at a particular person. Kills stealing bastard! She thought as she could feel her blood boiling when she gazed at the nearby Wild Boars remain and frown. I swear to god himself if he does it again-
"They got through! Watch your left!" The mage Interrupts her.
While the vanguard is fending off many angry Wild Boars, a few manage to slip through and are charging at Malty and the mage.
She merely looked at two Boars for a good second as they closed in on her, then narrowed her eyes and looked away. She decided not to do anything about it.
"P-princess!" Shout the panicked mage.
She sighs, closes her eyes, and begins massaging her temple. One, two, three... Malty then heard the sound of a whistle as she felt something fly past her, and shortly after, an ugly shriek came from the direction of the charging boar. A dull sigh escaped her lip as she merely opened her right eye to take a peek at the two beasts. The Boars that were charging at her now become lifeless and slide across the grass limply toward her, stopping an inch away from her feet.
Malty glared down at the slain Wild Boar and gritted her teeth in annoyance. Remembering what the young hero had told her when she outright slaughtered and roasted the oversize pigs on their first encounter.
"Princess Malty, I must refrain you from taking any further kill for yourself. Let us, low level, kill and raise our rank," Scold by the Bow Hero. "You're already further ahead of everybody, so please, think about everyone else. So, from now on, only support the party with buff magic."
"...Then what about the ones that are flanking me?" She asks.
The Bow Hero Gestures to himself, elegantly with the biggest smug on his face. "Worry not! Let me protect you! Not even a single scratch will be laid on your skin, not within my sight." He huffed proudly while everyone else gave him a big applause.
"Ohhh!" The idiot with the thick mustache steps forward to Sir Itsuki. "As expected of Lord Itsuki! So Heroic, he's willing to protect the princess while exposing himself to danger!" His eyes begin to leak sparkles.
To that, the Bow Hero composed himself and smiled gently. "Of course, the protection is not just limited to Her Highness, but to all of you as well."
Mald gasped dramatically and clutched his chest, faking his pain. "Oh, how unworthy of someone like me to be able to stand within your divinity, Lord Itsuki! Indeed you are the hero among all other Heroes! A true hero! This, I declare!" He then dramatically pointed to the sky while everyone gave him a big and smugly nod.
For some reason, she began to believe these people were actually started radiating with light, and it was blinding her.
Malty groans at such a memory that she wishes it was all a big goofy act! That they merely attempted to create a silly joke! But reality can be so cruel most of the time...
Pour holy water upon my eyes; what a bunch of lunatics! Malty grips her head in an attempt to calm her nerves, but it seems people just can't read the mood or just simply don't care.
After Mald butchered the last Wild Boars, he quickly shot his head toward the Bow Hero, face filled with delight. "Look, everyone. Lord Itsuki has protected Her Highness just as he claims!
"Lord Itsuki has done it again!"
"As expected!"
Everyone starts to applaud, adding to her nerves.
How many times have they gone through with this same conversation? Because certainly, Malty has lost counts! I swear if I have to endure any of this nonsense any longer-!
"Princess?" Mald asked. "Why haven't you shown Lord Itsuki some gratitude? Lord Itsuki has been protecting you all this time-"
"ENOUGH!" Gritting her teeth while holding onto her boiled head. The headache is real, and she had enough of this! "Enough of this! Why can't you all be normal!? You are acting like a bunch of mad fools! Mad I say, Mad!" Malty spat the sudden fury upon them.
Everyone present is too stunned after witnessing the surreal scene before them. Never in their lives have they thought they would ever witness such fury from someone of her status; A Princess, to lash out at them like this, truly, unbelievable.
Meanwhile, Princess Malty. "Every god forsaking time!" She yelled, "Why must you find the need to stop on every kill just to waste time raining him with fake praise!" She threw her hands up and pointed at the meathead mustache man aggressively while glaring at his face. "You! Not just a thickhead, but a liar and a fraud! I bet you got this part of your mother when she climbed her way toward your father's pants!"
Mald gasped.
Malty then looks at the other party member. "And you three have no personality at all! Like really! Only yes, a bunch of small fries!"
Everyone gasped.
"And you!" Malty turns dagger at the last person.
The Bow Hero flinches.
"I don't even know where to begin with you." Malty slowly moves closer toward the boy. "So let's start with the fact that putting me in the rear job is the worst idea ever! Not only have you put me back here; only for buffing when I'm not even specialized in that area in the first place!" She throws both her hands up in frustration, then points at herself.
"B-b-but you're already way ahead of everyone!" Sir Itsuki resort.
"Isn't that fine!? The higher I am, the merrier, isn't it? I don't mind carrying you all!"
"But that just means everyone will be getting fewer experience points, and their progress will decrease tremendously-!"
"It's already slowed because you're stealing their kills the majority of the time!"
The Bow Hero eyes widened, shocked.
Malty sharpened her glare. "Don't take me for a fool! It didn't take me long to figure it out!"
"I-I don't know what you're talking about..." He averts his eye, avoids direct eye contact.
Malty rolled her eyes in annoyance. So that's how we're going to play? Fine. She then says,"Let's start with the fact that, by positioning yourself in the very back of the formation, you're the only one with a full view of the party..." Malty pauses to take a second to observe the boy, and it seems he is a little bit on edge; eyes squirming, seeking an answer, looking for an excuse. Sweat slowly formed on his temple, pressure building up. Lip slightly agape, striving for cool fresh air, attempting to calm himself.
Oh, how she loves to corner little mice. "With that said, doesn't that make it easier for you to land the final hit? Not just stealing the kill but also making the impression that you were helping them." Malty said with a knowing smirk.
"Hahaha! Your Highness, I think you're just overthinking! Why in the world would I do that?" The young hero denied.
"Why, you say?" She tilts her head while tapping her lower lip with her figure, and then it slowly twists into one big smirk. "For praise, of course."
"Huh?" The Bow Hero stops on his track.
She looks right into his eyes. "It wasn't about the experience point or the progression, right, Sir Itsuki?" She paused, letting her words sink into him before pressing on. "It's about getting everyone to acknowledge you and wanting the spotlight for yourself." Sir Itsuki was going to protest, but Malty was quicker to cut him off. "That was one of the reasons too, wasn't it, Sir Itsuki?! By putting me in the back, you ensure that all the spotlight will be yours! Also, by demanding me not to engage, so it would be seen, "This little princess is hopeless! But don't worry, the Bow Hero is here!" I saw through your big play, you little brat!"
This time, everyone gasped, then there was silence. Even a moment later, no one dared to alter a word, even for Malty. Now that she got those furies out of her system, Malty's mind has calmed down, and she only has one thing to say.
...Fuck, I might have said it too much, She thought to herself. Rage filled her mind, and she only desired to steam it out.
But perhaps, Malty overdid it.
It took the Bow Hero a while to recover. From outright shocked by her outbursts to quickly glaring directly at her face. "I think this is not going to work out, Your Highness. So, I'm going to have to ask you to please leave."
She narrowed her eyes and huffed. Malty then began making her way back toward the capital. "You took the word right out of my mouth." Whatever, I expected this much. "See you around, Sir Itsuki. And good luck."
And just like that, one more to go.
I need to take a break for today to refresh myself before linking up with that guy. Malty sighed before shaking her head side to side. Unfortunately, those two have drained my energy. I just hope the Spear Hero is not as bad, if not downright any worse. She thought and stopped on her track to remember all her encounters with the Spear Hero before resuming walking again while rubbing her face. Though I have little hope...
To say noisy or rowdy is the word to describe the adventurer guildhall; it would do no justice. Chaotic should be the right word of the state inside the building. Low and high-rank adventurers alike are crowded together in the big hall, mixing in with each other. But since this is the capital, most adventurers are Iron-rank to gold-rank. Hardly any copper-rank or platinum-rank
While it's true that the hall is packed with people, the area where the crowd gathered most noticeably tends to be the quest board and queue line toward the receptionists. Since the main point of the hall for its members is about accepting quests posted by the people. After one accepts the job, the guild receptionist must verify the quest.
The receptionist plays a vital part in the Adventurer Guild. Such as registering to become an adventurer, taking in quests then posting it for the members to see, rewarding after finishing the job, and a general guide for minor things about the Adventurer Guild.
Talk about registering to become an Adventurer; Naofumi wonders if a hero could become one. He's just going to have to ask.
After the person in front of him finished up, the man moved away. The female Guild Receptionist then looked toward Naofumi and called him up next. He took a steady breath and walked toward the counter.
I hope Ren and Itsuki are right... He walks up to the counter and faces the female receptionist. Where do I begin... Naofumi thought.
Meanwhile, the receptionist smiled and slightly bowed toward him. "Welcome to the Adventurer Guild, sir. Am I guessing you're new around here?" She said while tilting her head.
"Hello, Miss. I was wondering if I can recruit adventurers into my party?" Naofumi asked.
"Yes, but adventurers tend to stick to themself most of the time, which means they only do work with another fellow adventurer. I'm also guessing by the question; you're not one?" She asked.
"Yes, as you said. I'm not a member. But I need companions..."
"I see. Mind if I ask you, why do you require the adventurer as your companions?" The receptionist asks. "And reasons behind your motive."
"Well...You see." Naofumi brings his right arm up to show her his shield. "I'm the Shield Hero, and I'm on the quest of saving this world."
Everyone around him suddenly stops on their track and stares at him, eyes widening in shock. The receptionist in front of him is also not an exception.
"T-the Shield Hero?" She mumbled.
He nodded and looked at her confusingly, wondering what with the sudden change. "Yes. And you see, I was not given any companionship. So my fellow heroes suggested for me to come to the guild and see if I could maybe recruit some adventurers into my party." After explaining to her, he slowly glanced around, and it seemed everyone had gone back to normal. However, he couldn't help but hear a few remarks.
"THE Shield Hero? What the hell were they thinking of summoning him here?" The unknown person sounded outraged.
"Hey, look at that. It's the shield."
"Yeah, I can't believe it…."
"What, him? A hero? Then again, what do you expect from the shield?" A snicker could be heard.
"Come on. You're being too loud. But I have to agree with ya~."
What the?! I could hear you guys! Naofumi thought in frustration. What the hell with the shield here?! While this was not his first time he encountered something like this, this was the worst of them all. The first time was when he was summoned, the king would ignore him. The second time was before he left the castle, where the hero was provided with party members except himself.
Now there's this.
It seems to him that most people in this kingdom are not very welcoming of him here.
While he still can not get the complete list of things, there's one thing that he is very sure is the main reason for such a cold treatment.
Naofumi looks down at his right arm at the shield. It's this thing! He thought as he grit his teeth. He then decided to give a quick glance at his side; as he did so, he spotted people glaring at him while some were just looking at him coldly. Like he is some sort of an insect. Really, what the hell is going on?! He thought.
"I see," The receptionist said, and she glanced around before looking at him again with concern. "I'm afraid your chance of getting anyone into your party will prove to be quite tricky, Shield Hero." She pauses for a moment before continuing, "You see, by joining the hero. It means that the adventurer will be getting involved in politics. And as rules go, the adventurer is tied to the guild, and we will not get into any sort of politics with any countries."
"W-what?" Naofumi is confused. "How is that violating the rule? Or what do you mean; how's joining with me mean that they were getting involved with politics?" It doesn't make any sense!
"Well, you see. Adventurer Guild is more of an independent organization. And by getting involved with the heroes, who have tied with one country, it will show that the guild favors that said country." She then shook her head, "And that is a big problem..."
Well, this kingdom indeed summoned me, but still, it's not like I had any choice...nor did we make any form of contract. Naofumi sighed and looked at her, "While I find it odd, rules are rules, I guess. Then is there any other way?" He asks.
The receptionist nodded but looked a little bit troubled. "There is actually... But it would cost you..."
Naofumi tilted his head. "How so?"
"While what I have told you is true, you still could hire adventurers for escort missions or monster extermination. Depending on what you need them for and their ranks, it can sometimes be rarely cheap and expensive." She said.
Well, at least there's still some option. Naofumi thought. "How much is the cheapest?"
She smiled and said, "As I mentioned earlier, it depends. But the cheapest I know for hunting weak monsters is around 10 silver, but it also depends on how many monsters; the price can be changed. while escorts tend to be around 200 silver, depending on the goods that they are escorting as well."
Naofumi widens his eyes, "That's a lot for escorting."
"Yes, because most of the adventurers who are willing to do those jobs tend to be silver rank and above, for reliability, of course." She said and looked at him before continuing. "Hunting is available to all ranks, but it's more common among the Copper Adventurer since it's a good way to start. Also, a lot of the villagers tend to request us to exterminate troublesome monsters." She explains.
I see. Maybe I can hire a low-rank adventurer to hunt for me for experiments. Naofumi cupped his chin and thought to himself before asking the receptionist. "But can you somehow negotiate the payment?"
She nodded, "As long as both parties are in agreement, it should be fine."
"Then I would like to try and place a quest for low-level monsters that copper rank would be willing to do. I don't know much about monsters in this world, and I would appreciate it if they were near the city. But since I'm new here, can you help me with that?" Naofumi asks.
"Certainly, Shield Hero." The receptionist said before she bent down and pulled out a thick book from under the counter. "Let's see... How about this?" She flipped through the page and stopped to show him a drawn picture of a monster.
Naofumi moves closer to inspect the drawing. What is that? A rabbit? But it's fat- Wait, is it even a threat? Naofumi backs up from the receptionist. "...Can this rabbit even be considered a threat?" He said while looking confused.
Her smile turned wary, "To some certain degrees, it can be a threat. Mostly for the people that wander around the woods, like the harvester." She told him as she settled the book down. "They can be pretty sneaky and attack people when the opportunity arises. While they are not life-threatening, their front teeth do hurt equally to the balloon monster."
"I see. I guess I could go with that." Naofumi nodded. "Also, I have just one last question. Can I accompany the adventurer while they are on the job?"
"That is for the adventurer to decide, so you're going to have to ask for their permission. But you must keep it in mind that you have to be respectful; if they decline, then you must comply." The receptionist then smiled. "I hope you understand that we're trying to keep a healthy environment for both parties."
He nodded and said, "I understand."
The receptionist seems to be satisfied. "Then, is there anything else I could do for you? If not, I will begin filling in your request and post it on the quest board."
"Yes, that will be all."
"Very well. With that said," The receptionist opened the drawer and pulled out a single piece of paper and handed it to him alongside a quill with an inkwell. "Then, If you don't mind, please sign your name here, and I'll take care of the rest for you."
"Uhh... You see," Naofumi becomes nervous and starts scratching the back of his head awkwardly while averting his eyes. After some hesitation, he looked at her before sighing in defeat, then moved closer to her and began whispering, "Since I'm new to this world... I don't know how to read or write the language of this kingdom, sooo..."
The receptionist responded to him by simply staring at him, dumbfounded, before realizing what he meant, "Oh, silly me! I must apologize! It just went over my head that the heroes are not from this world. So, of course, you have no knowledge of this world language." She began bowing her head apologetically.
"No, don't worry about it," Naofumi said and shook his head. "Oh, can the hero be registered as an adventurer?"
"I'm not too sure whether the hero can become a member or not..." She said with hesitation before smiling at him with wary, "I'm going to have to ask the Guild Master regarding that first. So please come in again tomorrow, and I should have your answer by then."
"That's fine, I guess."
"Thank you for understanding." The receptionist bows and retrieve the paper she gave him earlier and reaches for the quill. "Then, for now, you don't mind if I use Shield Hero as a temporary name?" She asked him while giving him a quick glance.
"I mean if that's ok."
"Of course!" She nodded and began writing.
It didn't take her long to finish. But before Naofumi leaves, he asks the receptionist to tell whoever will be taking on his quest to meet with him first. Naofumi told her which inn he would be staying in and around what time he would turn in. He also told her he would be out of the city around morning until afternoon near the balloon monster territory.
After coming out of the guild building, Naofumi looked up toward the sky to spot the sun still up. He looks down at his shield and wonders to himself, Man, that was tense in there. He let out a tiresome sigh. Even while I made my way out, people just openly glared at me! He groans as he remembers one of them purposely bumped into him and scoffed at him. Well, that's that. Let's go hunt some balloons for now since it's still too early to turn in. Also, let's see what type of shields I can unlock. And so he moves on.
Luckily for Naofumi, the Adventurer Guild is around the plaza's center near Erhard shop. The one that the princess has guided him through, so he knows where the gate is from there. Earlier today, he visited uncle Blacksmith and asked for some advice. Naofumi also told him that the princess had left him without painting her in the wrong. He just told him that they didn't get along and it would be best to part ways. Because even though they have fought, Naofumi reminds himself that the only reason he was ahead of others is because of her. So he has no right to talk bad about her; instead, if possible, he would like to thank her and return the map she left behind.
Honestly, after he took a good night's rest, he calmed down and thought straight again. It's only natural that he went through last night and wishes he could have handled the situation better. He acknowledged the point she made, and he agreed on some of them; but he still believed his point stood, though.
Bravery can only take one so far. Cowards can hardly take one anywhere.
Immediately, Naofumi starts shaking his head. Let's not think about it too much; I need to find companions for now. But where? Where can he recruit some into his cause? Does he look around and ask randomly? Sounds ridiculous.
The safer option is to wait for tomorrow and see if he could become an adventurer and observe what he could do. He's level 18 now, so maybe that can give him some advantages.
Naofumi frowns. No, that still doesn't mean anything! I need to be helpful to leave a good impression... Naofumi sighs and stops on his track. He tiredly looks down at both his palms, clenching them with all his might. I can't afford to be useless now that someone like her is no longer supporting me. He thought as he looked back up but was shocked by the person walking towards him. Even while people were walking, mixing upon each other, she stood out among them.
Princess Malty.
The only person who helped him when he was helpless yet abandoned him when he was weak. Princess Malty walks towards him while carrying herself high among those near her, to say she is above the rest. Currently, she's looking around, unaware of him until she was close enough when her eyes lay right at his. For a split second, her eyes widen, and she immediately starts glaring at him.
Oh boy, Naofumi thought. I can't just leave it like this... He hesitated but managed to build up some courage to speak. Naofumi waved at her awkwardly and tried and struggled to give her a somewhat friendly smile. "G-good afternoon, Your-"
"Screw off." she spat those simple words before turning around and walking away.
Oh, come on! Naofumi quickly caught up to her. As he closed in and was about to reach for her shoulder, Princess Malty instantly shot him a fierce look.
"Don't. Touch. Me," She said while maintaining an intense gaze.
Instinctively, Naofumi swiftly backed off and held both his hands up to try to cool her down. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry!" Naofumi could feel his heart dropping from the look she gave him a second ago. Honestly, He doesn't know how to describe it; he never felt exposed to such intense pressure before. It's so violating, to the point where he felt like she was going to tear him a new one if he didn't back off. "I-I just need a few moments of your time... P-please," Naofumi begs.
Her gaze remains unmoved as she stares into his eyes. Honestly, it is just making him more uncomfortable than it is. So he wishes she would stop.
Princess Malty continued to stare at him for a bit more before closing her eyes and sighing in annoyance. "What is it?" She asks
Oh, thank god, she is willing to talk. But... Naofumi began scanning their surroundings. He noticed some people were looking at them with concern and curiosity as they passed along. It's probably a good idea to step aside, "C-can we take this elsewhere? Somewhere close by, and it'll be quick. I-I promise." He said while pleading with his eyes.
It seems Princess Malty also comes to the same conclusion as she looks around and tilts her head for Naofumi to follow her.
They got out of the main street of the plaza, headed toward a local street, and then into the alleyway. The princess took a peek through one of the alleys and gestured for him to go in first.
It seems the princess is very cautious. She was leading him into a tight space and limiting him with little options for escape if he, for whatever reason, decides to run off. Also, by positioning herself near the exit, she can escape more quickly if he does anything.
It's not like I could do anything to her anyway with the level gap between us... Naofumi thought and sighed before complying with her and moving into the empty alleyway while Princess Malty followed him.
"Alright, that's enough. Now make it quick and spit your business," Princess Malty said harshly.
Naofumi's eyes widened. No kidding when he said that she had little expectations of people. "Please, princess, whatever you're thinking of me right now is not what you're expecting, I assure you." He stares at her for a second before taking a deep breath to relax. "I... I just want to say-" Naofumi looks away from her, nervous since he's not really good when it comes to something like this. Honestly, he has never been through this with anyone, and he has no one to get advice from. So right now, he doesn't know what the right thing to say is in this kind of situation.
With that said. The only thing that comes to Naofumi's mind at this moment is to be honest and speak from his heart. Then hope everything works out?
"I just want to say that I'm sorry." He finally said it. Though, it took Naofumi a little bit of courage. He slowly looked back at her and saw that she had some complexity on her face mixed with a little bit of confusion. She likely expected something else and not him apologizing. He takes another deep breath before continuing, "I'm sorry for yelling at you last night, and I'm also sorry for not being able to control my temper. After you helped me with everything, I should've known better..."
The princess narrowed her eye, "Look, don't you think you can mock me by trying to be pitiful, thinking I'll return to you with your awful acting?"
Naofumi looks at her strangely. Really? Can't this be any simpler? He thought before slumping down in defeat. "That's because I'm not acting."
"Ah-huh." It seems she is still not convinced.
He looks back up at her again, "I mean it! Hell, I'm not even trying to ask you to come back! I just-" Naofumi bit his tongue in an attempt to keep his cool. He sighed again before continuing, "Sorry, I need to work on my temper." He pauses to swallow his spit before reassuming, "Well, whether you believe me or not, it's up to you. But let me explain, please?" He begs again.
Princess Malty stared at him while he pleaded to her. A moment later, she started moaning in defeat and told him, "Fine, go on..."
Naofumi smiled and nodded at her, "Thank you." He pauses in hesitation before continuing while staring at the ground, "All I have to say is that you were right. After I woke up this morning and recalled the event that happened last night." He peaked at her face while she was looking away with the same complex face from earlier, but she seemed to be thinking about something this time. Suddenly her attention returned to him. He quickly looked back at the ground and proceeded, "You were right. I'm already here, and there's nothing I could do about it. But while I'm here, I should make the best of it and do my part and fight the wave so I can return home." He said and looked back up at her.
She seems to be observing him while making a grumpy face. But a moment later, her expression seemed to soften, and she nodded at him.
"That's right, after what happened, I'm sure you want to go home. But, to do so is by fighting the wave. That's your only option." She said casually, like all those moody she has shown just suddenly disappeared.
"Yeah..."
"Also, as you have said. Do work on your temper." Princess Malty crosses her arms before she continues, "While you got away with just me walking out, not everyone will be as merciful as me."
Naofumi sighed, "I'll work on that too... And yes, you're right."
The princess nodded in approval. "Anyway, is that all the business you have with me? If nothing more, I will take my leave-"
"Oh, I almost forgot about it." Naofumi reaches into the leather bag she gave him that used to contain potions and pulls out the folded map. He inspects it before handing it to her. "You forgot this."
When he handed the map to her, she took it and then looked at the item. Princess Malty unfolds the large map and takes a careful look. After she is done, she pulls back and looks at him. "Hmm, I can't believe I actually forgot about this...Thank you." she thanked him awkwardly while looking away.
"Uhh, yeah! No problem..." Feeling awkward too, he began randomly scratching his messy hair. "Well, I think that's all. So, I guess I'll take my leave." Since she blocked him, Naofumi decided to turn around and walk deeper into the alleyway, toward the exit on the other side. "I guess I'll see you around. Please have a good day!" He said, waving at her while he walked away.
After a couple of seconds, Naofumi quietly let out a sigh. I guess I did ok. I hope she doesn't hold any more grudges against me-" While he was heading toward the other side of the tight alley, the princess called out to him.
"Wait!"
Hmm? Naofumi turned around and found the princess walking toward him.
"Yes?" He didn't do anything to offend her again, did he?
"What are you going to do now that you're alone?" She asked him, to his confusion.
"Wha- Why do you ask?" He asks her with wariness.
She sighed and massaged her forehead. "Just answer the question..."
He tilted his head, looking at her skeptically. What is she up to? They are not working together anymore, so why bother? "Well, I talked with Itsuki and Ren this morning, and they both say I should visit the Adventurer Guild, see if I could hire or join as a member..."
"Hmm..." It seems she is currently in deep thought. Crossing her arm while holding onto her chin playfully with one hand.
Naofumi patiently waits while, he guesses, Her Highness is currently thinking about something deep in her thoughts. Since she hasn't said anything to him yet. But, if he has to guess again, the chance that it's probably about him is pretty high. Since she asked about his situation earlier, before she went into this state, he highly doubts it but is she reconsidering him? Can he still somehow get her to join him again?
No, he can't make the first move.
If she's going to join him again, he wants her to be the one that decides. Since he believes it was somewhat his fault that she left.
"Alright, listen to me closely, because I will only say this once," The princess said and looked at him, gaining his attention. "The advice I'm about to give you, it's up to you whether you heed my word or not. I don't care." She pauses for a moment before continuing, "Do not trust people so easily; not everyone will help you because they want to, but because they want something." Princess Malty then came over to him, only halting when she was an inch away. With her right index finger, she pointed at his chest. She then says it in a threatening tone, "And sometimes, they just want more than what you have," her eyes sharpened before she continued, "They want your life."
Naofumi stares at her in shock. What does she mean, his life? Wasn't he a hero? One of the heroes that are supposed to save this world? What would anyone accomplish by killing him in the first place? This doesn't match up!
He shook his head and asked her, "What do you mean? I-I don't follow-!"
The princess merely shrugged. "I've believed I already told you more than enough; it's up to you whether to take my word for granted or simply ignore it," Princess Malty said as she turned around. "Good luck, Sir Naofumi." She waves as she walks toward the exit.
Naofumi would call her and ask more questions but stop since it seemed the princess didn't want to elaborate any further. So instead, he bid farewell. He took a small breath and shouted at her, "Thank you!"
To his response, she merely waved as she turned the corner before disappearing.
A couple of second passes, and Naofumi allowed himself to smile. I think she is not mad anymore, that's good. At least, it seems to him that way. Well, it took a little bit longer than I anticipated. He thought before turning around to exit the alleyway, but only to stop, realizing that it's better to exit the way he came from since she moved out of the way.
The sun is still up, which means he still has time to hunt some balloons and experiment with a few things. Like try harvesting some plants with the Leaf Shield and see what it's all about. Hell, he can sell some plants. Even if it is just a little bit, he needs to be financially stable as much as possible. At some point, he even thought about buying camping gear and sleeping out. It seems dangerous, but it's the last resort. That's why Naofumi wants to check the balloon monster if they are a threat to him in any way. Since he is level 18 now, and they are level 1, he was hoping they wouldn't be able to hurt him.
Because if that's the case, he can set up camp around their territory and use the balloon monster as some sort of guard pet. After all, everyone seems to think their maw hurts like hell.
I wonder if I could carry a few of them around. I could buy a cape and hide the little fella underneath it or something. Like some sort of pet! Yeah! As Naofumi continued to have his pleasant thoughts. He got out of the alley and headed toward the city gate with great anticipation, looking forward to what he could do with those adorable mawed balls!
Thanks for reading! Down below, I want to talk about Smut for a bit if you guys know him. (I think everyone who read Malty fanfic should know him) If you don't care, then just simply ignore it. Also, I want to thank everyone for leaving a review, you guys are awesome!
OK, first off, I'm not talking about Smut here to earn attention, so screw off if you think so.
Anyway, with that out of the way. I want to mention him here because he plays the biggest part in helping me create this story. So it suck that he just left like that. it's why, in a way, I want to leave this here as a mark of some sort lol. He might see me as a bother but regardless I'm very appreciative of all his help, regardless of how he feels. He was the first person to inspire me to write, for that I'm gratful. I've learned a few things from him and I hope I can use them to improve my writing here (I highly doubt!). So whatever he is doing now and planning to do in the future, I wish him the best.
Now the salty part, that piece of crap refunded Patron even though it's my way of showing my appreciation for wasting his time! God, I hate that piece of-!