To Nagisa Tr: Not sure if you are actually serious with that suggestion but no. Although I will admit that Naofumi's armor with look slightly LESS villainous since he had more money and resources to spend for his equipment.
To CAD270895: The easiest way for me to imagine adult Rifana is a white haired Suguha Kirigaya. Hehehe...
To fruitspunchsamurai-987: Thanks a lot for reminding me that detail. A bit of a spoiler but those trauma and rage WILL be resurfacing in the future. Especially when in the presence of people like Malty and Aultcray. I might even dedicate a chapter that focuses on Anna's thoughts in the future.
To Guest Squire Ann: You are actually half right and half wrong. Things would be explained a little in this Flashback chapter about Mash Kyrielight and in future updates
- Motoyasu's strengthening method is basically an improved version of Spirit Burning and Craft Essence since he puts so much focus in upgrading the weapon itself.
Meanwhile, Itsuki's strengthening method is a more downgraded version of the Ascension ritual as it focuses on Weapon Rarity and Job Levels.
- A bit of a spoiler but... only when all 4 Cardinal Heroes finally sat down together to share info will Naofumi and Eugeo unlock the Bow and Spear strengthening methods. I don't want them to be TOO overpowered this early in the story.
To The Loud Person: I will only tell you this... a fully mastered Blessed Series.
To Starwing1995: I apologise but I already had something planned for what Mash would give Naofumi. But I WILL take a FEW from your suggestions and implement them to the story. Some of the upgrades in Final Fantasy 7 remake are a bit similar to Motoyasu's strengthening method. So your ideas WILL show up in the Fanfic, but NOT right away. I hope you understand. Also, Guest Reviews sometimes don't appear instantly on the site but the author immediately sees them at the Gmail. So don't worry if it doesn't show up right away.
To Shiroyasha Rises: The things that Naofumi can now do will be showcased at the following chapters. Especially the dual that he will have with Motoyasu.
To BlazeBlade: I also did my research but some pieces were missing, so thanks for the additional information.
To Journey to the End: To answer your question. Yes, Alice has effectively replaced the Spirit partner that Eugeo was supposed to get.
- Not really sure if I should give Eugeo the previous Sword Hero's strengthening method. After all, Enhance Armament and Release Recollection are kinda OP already. Not to mention when Eugeo receives the strengthening methods of the other Heroes. Take a look at my announcements at the bottom of this chapter.
To Guest: You just have to wait and see. ;-)
192 Reviews, 225 Favorites, 316 Follows
Flashback Chapter for Naofumi
"Shield Counter!"
Naofumi released a small whirlwind of energy in all directions from his glowing Legendary Shield. While not very strong, it is more than enough to defeat eight Balloon Monsters at once. A flurry of balloon shreds got scattered all over the place as a result.
A window then appeared in front of him saying that he leveled up to Level 2.
A light clapping is heard from his companion Myne as she approached him. "Simply splendid Sir Shield Hero! You actually defeated all of those Balloon Monsters without breaking a sweat."
"Thanks for the praise." Naofumi scratches his head in slight embarrassment as he bent down to absorb all the Balloon monster's remains, "But it's all thanks to Eugeo that I now have the means to deal damage."
"Is that so? The Sword Hero sure is a nice guy for him to teach you his world's Combat Skills." Myne said as she walked to another grassy clearing where more monsters await.
"Tell me about it." Naofumi chuckled as he followed her, "Last night, I was actually really worried about how I'm supposed to do my job as a Cardinal Hero. Eugeo took pity on me, that's why he decided share some of his real world experience of being a warrior."
More Balloon monsters soon arrived, thus cutting their conversation short. Naofumi prepared himself for another round of monster slaying. For almost the entire afternoon, Naofumi spent it defeating Balloon monsters one after the other. At the end of the day, he managed to reach Level 4.
Even though the other heroes have an advantage over him because of their high Attack power, Naofumi is sure that he can manage to keep up with them now that he's got this Combat Shield Skills.
"Things are looking up." Naofumi mumbled to himself with an optimistic smile.
"I spoke too soon." Naofumi loudly groaned as he walked out of the Trash King's Castle gates.
This country... is REALLY MESSED UP for what the Trash King has been doing with his misplaced authority.
Eugeo, bless the Sword Hero's kind soul, was somehow able to create a link between their minds and told him a great deal of information. To think the Trash King will go THIS far, just because the Shield Hero is technically the champion of the Demi-Humans that he so hates. But despite Naofumi's currently bad situation, at least it isn't a total lost cause. Eugeo had already thought of a way to help him while making the entire kingdom think that he now hates him.
As Naofumi walked in the business district where Erhard's Blacksmith shop is located, he can already hear the false information being spread out to the populace. The Shielder's face scrunched into a bitter frown as he walked straight. Doing his best to ignore all the stupid rumours about his supposed crime until Naofumi noticed Erhard waiting in one of the alleys.
Erhard made quite the good act, maybe a little too good as Naofumi actually thought that he's going to be punched in the face. Erhard saying how he plans to beat Naofumi to a pulp as he picks the Shielder up from the ground and dragging him away to his shop. When they arrived in the Blacksmiths Shop, the Hero saw Kirin who flinched in fake fear of him before quickly running out the door. Leaving a pouch on top of one of the displays, just as Eugeo promised.
Naofumi then received some cheap equipment to replace the one that Bitch stole from him. The kind blacksmith told him that the gear is on the house, but he won't be able to help him any further unless it's purely business related. The Shield Hero simply nodded in understanding, fully knowing that Erhard might get into deep trouble if he helps him any more than this. The Shielder quickly swiped and stored the pouch that his fellow Hero gifted to him into his Item Storage before exiting the shop.
Naofumi made a quick stop at the Dragon Hourglass to synchronize with it and received the Wave Countdown, just as Eugeo said it would. Naofumi didn't fail to notice the absence of the Legendary Shield on the Church's emblem and the condescending looks that the nuns were giving him. So he didn't even bother to speak with them any further nor ask for some Dragon Hourglass sand.
He left and walked toward the fields as quickly as he could while ignoring the piercing gazes that are coming from Melromarc's common citizens.
The disgraced Hero materialized Eugeo's gifts once he reached a forest clearing where he had some degree of privacy. The 200 silver coins were instantly stored to his Treasury Shield for safe keeping. The monster parts on the other hand are quickly absorbed to unlock new forms...
[Green Mush Shield Unlocked]
[Blue Mush Shield Unlocked]
[Red Mush Shield Unlocked]
[Yellow Mush Shield Unlocked]
¥
{Mush Series Complete}
[Prime Mush Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 15]
[Mastery: 0/35]
[Equip Bonus: Poison Capsule]
Level 6 Required
[White Rabbit Hide Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Medium - Base Defense: 30]
[Mastery: 0/50]
[Equip Bonus: Small Cold Resistance]
Level 10 Required
[White Rabbit Bones Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Medium - Base Defense: 35]
[Mastery: 0/50]
[Equip Bonus: 5 DEF]
Level 10 Required
[White Rabbit Paws Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 20]
[Mastery: 0/40]
[Equip Bonus: Shield Bounce]
Level 5 Required
[White Rabbit Meat Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 25]
[Mastery: 0/40]
[Equip Bonus: 5 Cooking]
Level 9 Required
[White Rabbit Guts Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 25]
[Mastery: 0/40]
[Equip Bonus: 5 Foraging]
Level 8 Required
Naofumi's eye's widened at all the power ups that he will receive once he reaches the Level requirements of all of these shields! Especially the [Poison Capsule] and [Shield Bounce] Weapon Skills!
Who knew that completing a Weapon Series will unlock an additional form with a unique ability to go with it?
The Shielder chuckled to himself before pausing... could this... could this possibly be a hidden message that Eugeo wanted to convey to him. He never would have thought that completing a Weapon Series will give such a good bonus ability. Since Eugeo isn't familiar with any video game logic, this discovery is most likely accidental on the Sword Hero's part.
'Thanks a lot Eugeo.' Naofumi made a small smile as he silently thanked his fellow Hero.
As for the 2 bottles of High Quality Holy Water, the Shielder decided to postpone in absorbing them. He wanted to raise his Potion Blending Ability and see if he can dilute the Holy Water. If his hunch is correct, it just might be possible for him to get a completed Holy Series by creating lower-tier Holy Water and absorbing them from weakest to highest in succession.
Standing up from where he has been sitting for the last few minutes, Naofumi the Shield Hero faced the monsters that are now approaching with renewed resolve...
He WILL survive in this world!
He WILL prove to this entire country that he isn't useless!
He WILL finish his duty in combating the Waves!
And most importantly...
He WILL make sure that Trash King and Bitch Princess get their RIGHTFUL JUDGEMENT!
"Poison Capsule!"
A large purple dome made completely out of toxic liquid, traps a large group of Balloon and Mushroom Monsters within its confines.
"Shield Bounce!"
The caster which is Naofumi leaped forward and crashes his Legendary Shield into the big squirming ball of poison. Instead of his arm sinking into the blob like you would expect, the entire thing literally bouncing off from the Shielder and slamming against multiple trees again and again like a giant purple pinball!
The [Poison Capsule] skill soon ended and the poisonous bubble pops, revealing all the trapped monsters inside now dead. Killed by a combination of multiple impact damages and gradual poisoning damage. A window soon pops up telling him that he is now Level 9.
It has been a full week after his fall from grace... no thanks to that Bitch Princess and her Trash King father! The currently disgraced Shield Hero is actually doing better than he thought he would. A great factor of that is thanks to the Combat Shield Skills, the new Weapon Skills and the information that the Sword Hero Eugeo managed to share with him.
Unfortunately...
Eugeo's words are now being proven true as fighting solo is now becoming very inefficient. Naofumi needs to find people that can fight alongside him. But because of all the lies that has been told to all of Castle Town's citizens, no one wants to join him. Only thugs who thought that they can rob the Shield Hero tried, thinking that he's helpless and an easy prey because of his low Attack power.
Despite Naofumi being ostracized by the Town's general populace, they still had a good laugh when they saw how he thought those low lives a lesson. Watching three grown men being thrown around like rag dolls in a bouncing blob in the middle of the street was just too funny for them to stay mad. Of course, Naofumi made sure to cut off the skill's effects before he accidentally kills the thugs.
Back at the present, the Shielder collects all of the monster parts that he can get and stores them inside his Inventory.
When he returns to the town and tried to sell his spoils for additional money, the trader grinned and tried to rip him off. With an extremely unfair price. Naofumi could only mentally sigh as he resorted to his 'bad guy' persona. Opening his green cloak, revealing the still very much alive Balloon monsters that are stuck on his arms and torso. Naofumi basically threatening the biased man to agree in giving him a fair price for his monster spoils.
"Tell all of your merchant friends what happened here. If anyone else tried this bullshit on me, they are up for a nasty surprise." His piece stated, Naofumi grabbed the money and left.
He shortly entered a simple inn afterwards and ordered himself the cheapest meal on the menu. The waiter didn't like him, his frown clear on his face, but he would not turn down money. As the Shield Hero ate away, his mood worsened as the food tasted extremely bland!
Ever since the Fake Trial, he could no longer taste food properly!
At first, Naofumi thought that this is the establishment's way of cheating on him. But when he tried to cook for himself with simple barbequed meat, he still barely tasted anything! After a few more attempts with no success, the Shielder finally gave up and simply shelf that problem as unimportant.
As Naofumi walked into an alleyway after finishing his meal and paying the waiter for his services, a very shady looking man approached him.
"The Shield Hero, am I right? You made quite a reputation in your endeavors in your unorthodox way of fighting. That performance you just pulled on those thugs that tried to mug you the other day was also quite hilarious." The strangely dressed individual chuckled as he came closer
"Glad I can provide you with some entertainment." Naofumi grunted as he gave the man a bitter sideways glance. "So what do you want? If you're offering me party members then I'm not interested."
"Oh, but what I'm offering you is a service that is far more convenient." The man said, walking up behind him. "What I wish to offer you are Slave companions."
"Slave companions?"
"Interested now are we?" the little man grinned as he explained further, "You see, slaves are given a special Crest that gives them a painful electric shock whenever they try to lie, disobey or betray their masters. And if you really wanted to, you can even set a self destruct command that will instantly kill the Slave if they ever crossed the line."
While he found literally having someone else's life resting on his hands to be morally wrong. Naofumi can still see the appeal of them being unable to lie and betray him. Eugeo did mention that the Trash King, the majority of the Nobles and their Religion hates Demi-Humans, so it make sense that this country treats them as slaves.
Since Demi-Humans happens to adore the Shield Hero because of the kind and heroic actions of his predecessors. Having a Demi-Human slave companion actually sounds like a pretty good idea.
"Alright... you have successfully convinced me." Naofumi finally decided as he crossed his arms. "Show me what you got."
Long story short, Naofumi decided to purchase a little girl named Raphtalia to be his slave. Not only is she cheap, only costing him 30 silver coins, but she's also the one who desperately needs help. Both in the physical and the psychological kind!
The Shield Hero noticed her at the Slave Merchant's tent when he heard someone coughing inside one of the partially covered cages. When he pulled the tarp away, he saw a little girl who looks to be more dead than alive. Her eyes, the pupils being a dull red, stared at nothing. She is wearing tattered rags that can barely be regarded as clothes. Her long brown hair was unkempt and full of knots. Several untreated wounds littered her body with her hands weakly gripping the chain attached to a collar around her neck.
It was a sickening sight for him to see as his intense anger towards the Trash King and the rest of his enemies resurfaced.
'And they have the guts to call ME a CRIMINAL! Just look at what they are doing! Not only is this innocent little girl barely skin and bones... she actually has the eyes of someone who has given up hope! No child in ANY race should have dead eyes like that! ! !'
Despite Raphtalia being a Level 1 with no prior experience in combat, the Shielder made his choice and purchased her with little hesitation. Raphtalia is then given a renewed Slave Crest with some of Naofumi's blood so he can be registered as her new master. Raphtalia's name is then added to his Hud right below his name. A Stacia Window suddenly appeared in front of him that displays the settings of the Slave Crest contract.
The Shield Hero immediately lowered the [Violation Damage] down to Level 1 and deactivated the self destruct command as he had no desire to kill an innocent life. He also removed the [Item Using] and the [Distance Restrictions] that was set at the [Violation Conditions].
Naofumi then decided to buy and absorb the [Slave Crest Ink] also. He didn't want to leave behind any samples of his blood for the miniscule possibility that a voodoo magic might exist in this world that requires a victim's blood.
As the Shielder pours the [Slave Crest Ink] into the green gem of his Legendary Shield, a notification appeared saying...
[Slave User's Shield Unlocked
[Quality: Very Low - Base Defense: 8]
[Mastery: 0/15]
[Equip Bonus: Enhanced Slave Growth]
Level 5 Required
Naofumi's eyes widened as he read the information that the Help menu provided for him.
While the Shield form itself is almost completely useless in battle, the Equip Bonus he receives would be an incredible boon in the long run. Paying the man, who's name he learned to be Beloukas, with several additional silver coins as payment for the application of the Slave Crest and the bottle of its ink.
Raphtalia was incredibly jumpy that she can barely stop herself from shaking at first. But when she saw the soft and kind smile on the stranger's face, she realized that this man might be different to all her previous masters. Naofumi held out his hand, gently escorting her out of the Slave Merchant's tent with out most care.
Raphtalia would later regard this moment as one of the biggest and most precious turning points of her life.
"Hey there Shield boy." Erhard greeted Naofumi with a smile as he enters his shop. But paused when he noticed the little girl that's holding on to the hero's arm.
"What's with the girl?"
Not really wanting to talk about it, the Shielder simply placed some silver coins on the blacksmith's counter, "Get her some decent armor and a one-handed longsword of her size. Keep it under 20 silvers."
Erhard could only sigh as he obeyed and gave Raphtalia her equipment and pointed her to the changing room.
"So what's the deal Naofumi?" Erhard asked again with slight disappointment in his voice.
"She's only my slave." the Shield Hero answered as he looked away, "But as far as I'm concerned, she's just another poor soul that was dealt with a bad hand."
Erhard stayed quiet but it was obvious in the man's demeanor that he is relieved to see the Shield Hero's kindness shining through. The changing room rustled a bit as Raphtalia came out, now wearing her light armor.
"Not half bad for a beginner's armor." Naofumi commented as he stopped leaning on the counter and approached the girl. Lifting his green cloak to reveal an Orange Balloon monster underneath.
"Take out your sword and kill this thing." He commanded, detaching the monster from his torso and holding it out in front of him.
The girl immediately flinched and took a few steps back in fear, "M-m-monster!"
"Just take your sword and stab it." Naofumi firmly ordered but the girl didn't move, knees trembling.
"I d-don't want to…ouhhh." The Slave Crest on her chest started to shock her for disobeying, but it's noticable that the pain isn't as bad as it used to be.
"It will only hurt more if you don't kill it." Naofumi hated using his 'bad guy' persona on people who haven't wronged him, but this time it's necessary.
Raphtalia unsheathed her sword, the electrocution fading as she tried to stab her blade into the Balloon monster. Her attempt failed though as the monster managed to catch the blade with its mouth. The Balloon spitted the sword out, pushing the young Demi-Human away because her previous attack lacked power.
Naofumi grew a little frustrated until he suddenly recalled a theory he once had. He decided to test his theory by giving Raphtalia his advice, "Raise your sword a little above your right shoulder and tense the muscles on your sword arm."
Raphtalia perked up at his change of tone. She slowly obeyed and took up a stance that her master asked him to do. Much to her and everyone else's surprise, the sword started to shine with a whitish blue light. Naofumi couldn't help but grin at the little girl's accomplishment.
"Now let that energy burst and slash at this monster!"
"R-Right!"
With a newfound determination, Raphtalia stepped forward and sliced the Balloon monster in two. Effectively killing it in one blow.
"Well done." Naofumi nodded in approval as a notification popped up, telling him that they both earned EXP from her kill.
The little girl slowly smiled in return, accepting her new master's praise while she stared at her sword in awe. Amazed that she somehow managed to use that attack, largely thanks to his instruction.
Erhard, in a semi-dazed state, asked Naofumi where he learned that Combat Skill. The simple answer being that he carefully watched Eugeo train with Kirin using their respective Combat Skills during their first day after being summoned. Naofumi admitted that he focused more on memorizing Eugeo's Aincrad Style as they are much easier to use in battle.
When Naofumi asked why he received EXP too, Erhard explained to him how the party system works. The Shield Hero silently cursed, adding another reason to his growing list of why he absolutely HATES that Bitch Princess so much! She purposely withheld this information from him! Avoided adding herself to his party just so she won't accidentally help him gain EXP!
Letting out a heavy sigh of frustration, he approached his new companion who is now looking at him in wonder...
"Listen up! From here on out, you will be my main attacker as I will do my very best to teach you how to fight. In return, I will make sure to protect you from any danger that comes our way. Am I understood?!"
"Y-Yes Master!"
Thanks to Eugeo's extra money, Naofumi was able to give Raphtalia the biggest meal she's ever had in weeks! It came to no surprise that all of her previous masters barely bothered to provide her with the most basic of needs. Naofumi tried to enjoy his meal too, but for some strange reason, everything he eats always tasted bland in his mouth.
After a feeling lunch, the party of two went straight for the fields to do some Sword Skill training.
"Focus most of your weight on the right foot while moving the sword back slightly like this." Naofumi firmly instructed as he moved Raphtalia's arms and legs into the correct positions, "Yes... just like that. You will then take a step forward and use the strength of your legs, hips and arm for maximum power as you swing that sword towards that small tree over there."
Raphtalia did her best to follow his instructions, but it's easier said than done. After four failed attempts, she prepared herself to be punished for her inability. But much to her surprise, nothing like that happened as her master patiently helped her to get it right. Finally, at her seventh try...
"Alright." Naofumi softly cheered as Raphtalia's sword glowed a soft shade of blue.
The little Demi-Human yelled in triumph as she unleashed the attack towards the tree.
"AAAAAAAAHHHHH! ! !"
SWIIIISH!
At first, nothing seemed to have happened, almost as if she missed her target. But a few moments later, the tree started to lean sideways until it fully toppled over and slams into the ground with a thud. Naofumi once again praised her for her accomplishment as she looked at the tree in disbelief. SHE did THAT!?
Naofumi then deemed her ready for battle when she showed that she can now perform the two Sword Skills, {Slant} and {Horizontal} he said, consistently. The rest of the afternoon is soon spent in defeating many monsters to raise their Levels. Naofumi will block and deflect the monsters' attacks, sometimes slightly poisoning them with Poison Capsule, while Raphtalia jumps in with the finishing blow.
It's a very simple strategy...
but an effective one.
When the sun had started to set, Naofumi cooked up some dinner with the fish that they managed catch from the nearby river. It's at this time that he formally introduced himself as the Shield Hero, Naofumi Iwatani. Much to Raphtalia's amazement.
Naofumi then tried his hand with his Potion Blending Ability. Making a simple medicine by using a few smooth rocks as makeshift mortar and pestle for the medicinal herbs. Giving it to Raphtalia for her sickness, although she found it hard to drink because of how bitter it is.
Later that night, Raphtalia had a nightmare of what happened to her parents during the previous Wave. Naofumi had to hold her close to calm her down. So for the rest of the night, the Shield Hero continued to comfort her and the nightmares eventually faded away.
For the next following days, Naofumi and Raphtalia continued a routine of spending most of their time in Level Raising and Potion Blending. The Shielder even managed to earn some profit with the herbs he gathers and potions that he creates for their day to day needs.
They once tried to enter one of Melromarc's Dungeons but Naofumi eventually deemed it too dangerous as they are simply not strong enough. The monsters themselves aren't the problem, but the confined space and lack of escape routes that they could take during emergencies is what made it too risky.
At the fifth day, Naofumi managed to raise his Potion Blending Ability to a high enough level to safely dilute the Holy Water that Eugeo gifted to him. It took some purchasing of higher quality potion making tools and several painstaking hours of experimenting but he finally managed to get the completed Holy Series.
[Shield of Achilles 1 Unlocked]
[Shield of Achilles 2 Unlocked]
[Shield of Achilles 3 Unlocked]
[Shield of Achilles 4 Unlocked]
[Shield of Achilles 5 Unlocked]
¥
{Holy Series Complete}
[? ? ? ? ? Unlocked]
[Quality: Mystical - Base Defense: 350]
[Mastery: 0/380]
[Equip Bonus: Luminous Fortress]
Level 170 Required
Naofumi could hardly believe his eyes when he saw the bonus for completing the Holy Series. It will take a REALLY long time before he can use this unknown shield but the [Shield of Achilles] is still going to be useful. Especially against monsters with a dark and unholy affinity.
At the seventh day, Raphtalia is in need of a new sword as her old one finally snapped after all the abuse it had to endure in battle. With Raphtalia almost constantly using Sword Skills in conjunction with her now improving swordsmanship, her sword breaking is an inevitability.
But when they made a quick visit at Erhard's Blacksmith Shop and were about to leave for Lute Village as the kind Smith recommended, another hero came along for his services.
"Eugeo?"
'Well... that was informative.'
Naofumi thought to himself as he quickly exited Erhard's Shop after their Mindscape conversation. Staring at his Legendary Shield in a brand new light.
'To think that the Legendary Weapons all a have a Spirit sealed within them. I have to admit, having someone like Alice to aid me in managing my abilities and unlocking new skills would be a HUGE help. This new function with using Fluctlight points will also be an incredible upgrade once the Shield's Spirit fully awakens.'
The Shielder and his companion wandered around town for a little while before returning to Erhard's shop to collect the rare materials that Eugeo left for him. He instantly absorbed the Crystal Ball and received...
[Multipurpose Orb Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 40]
[Mastery: 0/60]
[Equip Bonus: Flash Shield]
[Exclusive Ability: Recording, Communication]
Level 30 Required
'Wow... This shield could be very useful once I reach the Level Requirement.' Naofumi thought to himself as this could be the easiest way for him to contact Eugeo. After that, he decided to use the Weapon Creation function for the first time.
The Legendary Shield informed him that it is now possible for him to create a new shield form with all of the metals and rare ores that Eugeo gifted for him. Activating the Weapon Creation interface, Naofumi inserted all of the materials into it. This caused a notification to pop up...
[Weapon Creation: ? ? ? ? ? Shield]
Processing: 159 Hours, 59 Minutes, 59 Seconds
'I guess I just have to keep myself busy until the processing is complete to see the finished shield. Then again, there's a good chance that my Level won't be high enough for me to use it.'
With his business finished, the party of two left Castle Town for Lute Village where they can gain access to more favorable EXP hunting grounds. Naofumi is a little lost in thought as they traveled, trying to think of a reason why or how the Shield's Spirit is now slowly starting to awaken.
He wasn't like Eugeo.
He didn't put his life on the line to save the day like Eugeo did back in his homeworld.
He didn't even want to be a hero after what Trash King and Bitch Princess did to him at his first day after being summoned.
But when he looked at Raphtalia and remembered the state she was in when he first met her... 'Yeah, I guess holding out my hand to a poor, unfortunate soul like her COULD be regarded as Heroic.'
When they eventually reached Lute Village, one of the locals told him about the abandoned mines. Saying that Naofumi can collect a lot of crystals and ores if he can somehow manage to kill the troublesome monsters that have taken residence inside. With his defense and Raphtalia's increasing fighting capabilities, Naofumi felt confident that they can handle them.
At the mines entrance, Naofumi found a storage house where the mining tools are being kept. The Shield Hero decided to absorb a few of the mining tools and other random junk that he found there for the off chance that he receives something useful.
Turns out...
his hunch is right...
[Pickaxe Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 25]
[Mastery: 0/40]
[Equip Bonus: Mining Skill 1]
Level 8 Required
[Rope Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Low - Base Defense: 15]
[Mastery: 0/40]
[Equip Bonus: Air Strike Shield]
[Exclusive Ability: Rope Lasso]
Level 5 Required
[Pipe Shield Unlocked]
[Quality: Medium - Base Defense: 65]
[Mastery: 0/110]
[Equip Bonus: Shield Prison]
Level 18 Required
"Well that's a bit unexpected." Naofumi commented as he watched the Legendary Shield turned into the [Rope Shield] form. 'It's literally a shield made out of rope?'
"Alright then... let's give this a shot." he mumbled as he stood up and held out his shield arm.
"Air Strike Shield!"
Right before his eyes, a floating semi-transparent shield materialized in front of him with a glowing green light. Naofumi stared at it in amazement as several creative battle plans filtered into his head where this specific skill would be very useful. To make things even better, another notification appeared saying...
[Combat Skill: Shield Cannon Unlocked]
[Damage dealt also depends on distance]
[Requires aerodynamic shields]
Naofumi's grin widened as things got better and better. According to the Help menu... he needed to get a {Projectile Type Weapon Skill} to unlock Shield Cannon.
Once again, he got something EXTRAORDINARY from absorbing something seemingly mundane and useless.
The Shielder now felt a bit excited to try this new and unexpected Combat Skill against the monsters that are inside the abandoned mines.
"Let's get going Raphtalia."
The two then entered the mines and... much to Naofumi's surprise, they actually found the huge deposits of rare crystals without a fuss. Feeling only a tiny bit disappointed, the Shield Hero decided to just take it as a blessing and went to work while Raphtalia stands guard for the supposed monsters that made this mine their home.
Naofumi would make quite the killing as he stored countless crystals of different sizes into his Item Storage so he can sell them later. Also putting some of them aside so he can share some of it with Eugeo as thanks for the things the Sword Hero has done for him.
Of course, he plans to absorb a few of the gems to see if he can receive new shields and unlock more Combat Skills to add to his arsenal. Things progressed quite nicely in relative silence, only the sound of Naofumi's pickaxe can be heard as he mined the gems that are stuck on the walls.
At least until the raccoon Demi-Human's sensitive ears picked up the sound of a large monster coming their way. With the early warning, Naofumi and Raphtalia prepared for battle.
Unfortunately, when the monster revealed itself from the shadows to be a two-headed dog. All of the hours of training and battle experience disappeared from Raphtalia's mind as she started screaming in fright, dropping her weapon and letting her guard down in the process.
"AAAAAHHH! ! !"
With an opening presented to it, the two-headed dog pounced at its defenseless pray. Unknowingly falling to the Shield Hero's last minute trap.
"Air Strike Shield Cannon!"
Naofumi fired a spinning Air Strike Shield right at the monster's chest. Dealing a small amount of damage as the dog slammed to a distant wall.
"Poison Capsule!"
A purple dome then envelopes the monster, temporarily immobilizing it in a poisonous sphere shaped confinement. Scanning the monster, the Shielder's Appraisal skill says that the two-headed dog is Level 15. Meaning, it's possible for this monster to pierce through his magic defences.
"Raphtalia listen!" Naofumi grabbing the still crying Demi-Human, who is experiencing dark flashbacks, by her shoulders. The Shielder had enough bits and pieces of information from passed conversations to conclude that Raphtalia's parents died during the previous Wave. And judging from her reaction, the one who did the killing is a dog type monster too.
"Your parents aren't coming back. But if you decide to step up and help me fight the Waves of Catastrophe, you can prevent other kids from suffering the same fate you had. I will do my best to help you reach your full potential, but that can only happen if you stand up and fight."
Unfortunately, the Poison Capsule suddenly pops as it already reached its limit, forcing Naofumi to meet the two-headed dog head on. Since the Shield Hero can only block one head, the second head managed to take a big bite on his shoulder. Decreasing a good chunk of his HP in the process.
"So what will it be Raphtalia?! Will you run!? Or will you fight!?"
Images appeared in Raphtalia's head, faces of the people that she failed to save because she lacked the strength to do so. Friends that are most likely suffering right now under her previous abusive master. And now... in front of her is the bitter yet kind Shield Hero who's doing his best to protect her even though she's just a lowly slave.
'No...'
'Not again...'
'Never again!'
She gritted her teeth as she snapped her teary eyes open. Quickly picking up her sword and ran to aid her kind master with renewed resolve.
'This time.'
'THIS TIME!'
'THIS TIME I'LL FIGHT!'
"MASTER NAOFUMI!"
The little girl used a nearby boulder as a springboard and jumped high, activating the Sword Skill...
"SLAAANT!"
SLINK!
A severed dog head fell on the ground while Raphtalia failed to stick the landing and stumbled to the pavement as the Sword Skill ended. The monster roared in pain and anger, releasing its sunken jaws on Naofumi's shoulder and switch targets in retaliation for the head that it lost.
"Air Strike Shield!"
The semi-invisible shield appeared and blocked against the dog monster's bite. Protecting Raphtalia and effectively stunning the remaining head in the process.
"Finish it Raphtalia!"
With the enemy in a daze, she quickly activated the Sword Skill.
"Horizontal!"
With a mad dash forward and a flash of blue light, the second head got sliced in half and a huge gash of blood spluttered on the monster's ribs. The now completely headless monster wobbled a little before finally collapsing on the ground with a soft thud. The two fighters panted in both physical and emotional exhaustion as they received a significantly large amount of EXP in just that one battle.
Naofumi gave Raphtalia a proud smile which is unsurprisingly met with the girl rushing towards him and giving him a big hug as she cried her eyes out. Both in happiness and in relief that she succeeded in saving someone precious to her. Surpassing a certain milestone within herself as she finally got over one of her traumas.
The Shield Hero stayed where he is and decided to return the gesture, whispering comforting words to the girl in his arms. Looking at the corpse of the two-headed dog, he couldn't help but grin as he will no doubt unlock something good once he absorbs that into his Legendary Shield.
Taking a glance at his Stacia Hud, he saw that he's now Level 16 while Raphtalia is Level 12. After the duo were able to catch their breath, Naofumi got busy in dissecting the dog monster's body parts and quickly absorbing them into his Legendary Shield.
With both of them very tired because of the whole ordeal, the Shielder decided that they should return to Lute Village and leave their mining expedition for the next day. Having dinner and going to sleep at the inn in a much earlier time as they simply wanted to rest after such an exhausting day.
That night, Naofumi had a dream...
The Shielder found himself on some kind of mountain top, the ground covered with a thin carpet of freshly fallen snow. But despite the snowy terrain, the sky is somewhat clear of clouds and the air is actually in a very balanced temperature. Like an air-conditioned room where it has been given just the right settings for a person to be comfortable with the cold.
"Are you my Kouhai?"
A voice suddenly spoke from behind, startling Naofumi greatly as he yelped and took a few steps away from its source.
Behind him is a girl, a beautiful 18 year old girl who possessed creamy white skin, short lilac hair and lavender eyes. She is wearing black armour with a hole exposing her stomach, black gauntlets, black boots and a garter on her right thigh. But even with all those features that proves her status as a capable warrior, what caught Naofumi's attention the most is the weapon that she's holding.
A shield... a large cross-shaped shield that's releasing an incredible amount of power! With all of these details put together, Naofumi now has a pretty good guess of who this young yet powerful girl is.
"Yeah... I guess I AM your Kouhai. My name is Naofumi Iwatani." he finally answered with a small smile before adding, "So that would make you my Senpai... correct?"
"That indeed I am." the Shield Spirit confirmed with a bright smile before looking at him with a more determined expression and bowed towards him, "My name is Mash Kyrielight... and from this point onward, I shall be your Senpai and fight by your side until your duty as Shield Hero has reached its conclusion. Whether or not you wish to stay in this world or keep me around afterwards, depends entirely on you."
"I understand... Thank you very much... Mash-senpai." Naofumi replied as he returned the gesture to his new and very important comrade.
Mash's eyes sparkled as the rest of her body started glowing brightly. In a very bright flash, her body seems to burst in light particles as Naofumi finally wakes up.
The moment Naofumi opened his eyes, he immediately rose up to check on his Legendary Shield. Drawing the letter (S) on the shield to open its Stacia Window. A notification then appears, telling him that one of his abilities have been updated...
[Weapon Fluctlight: Mash Kyrielight]
[Status: Fully Awakened]
After fully awakening the Shield's Spirit, Naofumi immediately had Mash use some of his Fluctlight points to unlock the Mindscape Ability and Telepathy so they can have better communication with each other.
This is how Naofumi nearly fainted in awe when he entered the Mindscape and found out that Mash is actually a pseudo-reincarnation of...
A Knight of THE King Arthur's Round Table?!
One of Camelot's Greatest Knights!?
THE Shield Hero of Camelot!?
SIR GALAHAD!?
Since other worlds exist, Naofumi is no longer surprised that worlds where Heroes of myths and folklore are real.
She's a freaking pseudo-reincarnation of the GREATEST Hero of the Shield that has ever lived in mythical history! Saying that Mash would be a big help for him is a MASSIVE understatement!
When Naofumi managed to calm down after all of those revelations, he asked her about the noticable size difference between his shield to hers. Mash quickly informs him about the available Shield Manipulation Ability.
Apparently, it's an ability that could allow him to change the size and shape of the Legendary Shield to follow his preference to a certain extent. Fortunately, he still has enough Fluctlight points for him to purchase it. Both Shielders agreeing that they should unlock that ability once he exits the Mindscape.
The two Shielders then discussed about Naofumi's fighting skills. Mash is pleasantly surprised that Naofumi already unlocked the Combat Shield Skills. Mash proposing that she will instruct Naofumi and give him advice on how to unlock and properly wield his shields once he returns to the real world. Naofumi is quick to agree, as it is already obvious that Mash has mastered the art of shield combat to astonishingly high levels.
Finally, Mash informs him about the main Strengthening Method of the previous Shield Hero, Sir Galahad... which is [Skill Enhancement] .
Mash explains that a Hero can Strengthen a chosen Weapon Skill by consuming specific materials to "Level up" that Skill. She also added that this also shortens the cooldown period. The catch is that a Hero can only do this 10 times before the Skill reaches its full power and each "Level Up" requires greater and rarer materials.
This is why Mash recommended that it's better for Naofumi to only use [Skill Enhancement] on Weapon Skills that he truly wants improve upon and be part of his main arsenal. Not on Skills that will eventually be rendered obsolete by other Skills that he will unlock in the future.
Naofumi thanked Mash profusely for the very crucial information that she shared with him. The young woman simply telling him with a smile that it's only natural for the Senpai to help and support her Kouhai.
Although Mash admitted that there is more than just one Strengthening Method that a Hero can use. Unfortunately, for some unexplainable reason, her memories about that information are strangely blocked. Naofumi assured her that it's okay as she has already helped him immensely and it's possible that she will regain her memories eventually.
When the countdown only had 40 seconds left, Naofumi finally asked the question that has been bugging him after all this time.
Naofumi asked, why is he worthy...as he admitted to her that he isn't like the current Sword Hero. Eugeo literally became a bonafide hero in his homeworld before he got Summoned into this one. So what does he have, as the current Shield Hero, that makes him worthy of his title.
Mash gave him a pure and innocent smile as she gave him a very confusing answer, "You treated a supposedly inferior being like Raphtalia with kindness and respect... the same way MY Senpai treated ME."
Naofumi was about to ask what she meant by that, but was only met with a giggle as Mash gestured to him that her lips are sealed.
The countdown shortly reaches zero and the current Shield Hero is sent out of the Mindscape.
For the next three days, Naofumi and Raphtalia spent their time raising their Levels, learning new skills and upgrading a few of them.
Raphtalia, who now has the appearance of a fairly attractive teenage girl, is now capable of using a large number of the Aincrad Style Sword Skills. Naofumi was extremely shocked when he noticed how fast she has aged. Raphtalia then later explained how a Demi-Human's body actually ages to match their increase in Levels. Of course, she added, that the aging process stops once the Demi-Human reaches the optimal stage of their bodies.
When Naofumi introduced Raphtalia to the Shield Spirit Mash, the two girls almost instantly became good friends as they gossiped to each other a bit about themselves.
Meanwhile, now that Naofumi has Mash acting as his mentor and guide, he can now be considered a decent damage dealer. His attack power is still a bit low, but with a little creativity, he can now hold his own against multiple monsters.
Naofumi decided to use [Skill Enhancement] on his {Air Strike Shield} , as it's by far his most versatile Weapon Skill. He managed to upgrade it up to Level 4 by using the resources he gathered so far on his travels, thus increasing its offensive and defensive powers.
With these new Upgrades, the Air Strike Shield Cannon is now capable of dealing a fair amount of damage against enemies.
Meanwhile, Mash also advised him to Upgrade {Shield Prison}, {Poison Capsule} and {Dog Bite} as they are Skills that have great potential for the very near future. Which is why Naofumi is quick to comply with her suggestions.
Although he was only able to Upgrade them to Level 2 because the materials he needed for the next Level up isn't available in Lute Village.
Looking at his Legendary Shield now, Naofumi couldn't help but chuckle, as he is literally living the dream of every single MARVEL and Avengers fan in his homeworld!
Because strapped on his arm right now is what appeared to be the famous, undecorated Vibranium Shield that Captain America wielded in the movies!
By using the Shield Manipulation Ability, Naofumi decided to change the Legendary Shield's default form (the same thing goes for a few other Shield forms) and went for the most iconic hero of the shield that he could think of. The only difference it had to the movies is the green gem that remains embedded at the center of the Legendary Shield.
He could even mimic the shield throw that Captain America is known for by using the {Shield Cannon} Skill! Effectively defeating several weak monsters with just one throw. And the best part, he didn't even have to worry about retrieving the Legendary Shield because it will always return to him no matter where it goes!
BEST... IDEA... EVER!
However...
As a sign of respect, Naofumi also decided to use Shape Manipulation to create a very similar looking cross-shaped shield to the one Mash used as the Legendary Shield's 3rd default form. Requesting to be trained on how to wield a replica of his Senpai's weapon. Mash felt very flattered by Naofumi's idea and happily agrees to grant her Kouhai's request.
Naofumi made even more progress when Mash remembered that he can actually Master any Shield form that he had unlocked by simply equipping that specific shield for an extended period of time. Although Higher Quality shields will take much longer to reach full mastery compared to lower quality shields. With this discovery, he can now permanently aquire any skills and stat bonuses that he wants even without using that specific Shield form at all!
With their improved strength and skills, the party of two decided to enter the Dungeon that they accidentally discovered in Lute Village. The monsters were no match to them now as they annihilated all of the monsters in the span of just three days!
It was during the third day that Mash informed Naofumi that he can use the Orb Shield's Communication ability now to contact Eugeo since he reached Level 30.
Raphtalia is now Level 32
After a pleasant conversation with his fellow hero, Naofumi decided that it's time for them to start traveling back to Castle Town to get better gear. With the money that he managed to earn with the crystals and ores he mined, along with the 25 gold coins that he will be receiving from Eugeo, he can now afford a full equipment upgrade for both Raphtalia and himself.
Just like Eugeo though, Naofumi forgot to mention to his fellow Hero about his breakthrough which is the Strengthening method [Skill Enhancement] . Deciding to tell him about it when they reunite at the coming Wave along with a few materials he mined as gifts. As contacting Eugeo right now might be dangerous.
"Shield Prison!" Naofumi commanded as a sphere shaped cage made completely out of shields and chains, traps the porcupine like creature that was charging towards him.
"Finish it!"
"Vertical!" the girl replied as she killed the last of the Dungeon's monsters.
"Let's go Raphtalia. We have some shopping and upgrading to do back in Castle Town."
ANNOUNCEMENTS! ! ! PLEASE READ THE NOTES BELOW! ! !
I will be taking a week long rest from my writing, my brain is starting feel burned out. I also need time to do some brainstorming for what happens at Trash King's party. The next chapter will be the Wave and it will be uploaded on April 28. Thank you!
PLEASE VOTE IN A REVIEW:
Should Eugeo receive the previews Sword Heroes' strengthening method?
I actually have an idea on how he gets it... but I also feel like Enhance Armament and Release Recollection already makes Eugeo a bit OP. What I do next will be dependent on you readers' answers.
As always, thank you for all the reviews, favorites and follows. I'm open for compatible suggestions and any advice that you readers could give. As for those nasty Reviewers who loves to Insult us authors, please just leave us alone.
Stay safe from the Coronovirus!