Heroes of the Arks

ESKK: Well here we are Chapter 23 let's start.

(Start Forest)

The Four Pactmakers were gathered in the forest outside of a village as Jun went on to gather some information. It's been several days since the forest confrontation and so far the group had covered some good ground since then. Since they were all wanted Criminals now they needed to know what they were dealing with. Currently they were talking amongst themselves as Tsubaki was speaking with Rishia.

"How can you be hopeful in such a hopeless situation?" Rishia asked Tsubaki as she was sharpening a few arrows. Sure the bow can create its own arrows but nothing beats having your own in case magical arrows fail you

"Simply put is because it's all we really have at this point." Tsubaki said as she looked to Rishia. "I know you didn't ask to be dragged into this but I'm grateful for how you stuck through it all." Tsubaki said as she smiled to Rishia ever kindly.

"Um thank you Lady Tsubaki." Rishia said but Tsubaki then smiled to her.

"Tsubaki is just fine but I won't force you to say it." Tsubaki said and thus Ail smiled to Rishia.

"I know even after becoming the Cardinal Hero she still keeps her head on straight." Ail said as Rishia nodded as she saw how Tsubaki put her loved ones first and foremost much like the Moon Maiden had said to Tsubaki before.

Just then Jun was seen as she walked in and removed her hood while passing some stuff she got in town. "I'm back and I got good news looking around the Criminal Underworld." Jun said she got everyone's attention. "The King is doubling down defenses on the boarder to Siltvelt he actually thinks that's where we plan to go." Jun said as she smirked to the group.

"So if he's doing that the boarder to Faubley is basically wide open." Taiyo said as the King just made their trip a whole lot easier. Once they cross the border they can't be touched by his royal asshole.

"Exactly." Jun said as they can agree on this.

"So the only thing we can hope is that we get lucky on the way, find Motoyasu, and take his Spear." Shiro said as they still needed to get Taiyo's Cardinal Weapon back.

"Yeah." Jun said as they had taken time to share information about their weapons.

For starters due to the Knights double EXP when grinding near each other it made it impossible for them to grind near each other because of that. On the flip side due to the Cardinal Weapons being what hold each other back when grinding again it prevented them from doing so. But combine the two and that's where good things happen, they can now grind near each other without any worry since the Knights and Cardinal Weapons balance out the EXP gain. This means they get a steady amount of EXP near each other as if they didn't have either weapons or Knights.

They still need to be careful for Taiyo's sake since he still doesn't have his Cardinal Spear at the moment so that was a bummer for them. Still it seems like things were beginning to go their way for a bit now the question was how long it was going to last. Oh well they have a plan and a path now they have to spend a lot of time walking since they had to ditch the wagons a while back... SHIT!

(Scene Break Madoras)

Madoras rested in the basement of the Church with his head on his fist. From the reports provided Miyuki, Shiba, and Lezarg are ready to conquer the domains they are hiding out in and need only his signal. That signal of course was the rise of Valgander and right now it was not time yet. He had a location and everything but he needs followers first and foremost hence why he was carefully recruiting outside the Popes notice. The man was loyal but his narrow-minded views would only hinder his empire and thus was another means to an end. From what he gathered the Shield Hero was on his way to Siltvelt but that was false information since the Heroes target was not there. No doubt the King assumed since Shiro was worshiped as a God for the Shield he would go to Siltvelt not once considering Shieldfreeden.

The Queen was clearly on the Shields side and since it was evident the Church and the King were not supposed to summon the Heroes the Queen had to stay away to handle this international incident. Still Shiro was going to Faubey and Madoras was going to let it happen simply because he wants to see what Shiro is made of to have access his Demon Knight. He had one theory as to why he was able to do so and the Dogma Drive plays only a minor role in it. If proven correct then he might have a replacement for Elizabeth and Alexandria once their usefulness reaches the end. If his hunch is wrong then that makes him just as interesting and curious to study. Now that Medea knows he's here she will no doubt pull back for a time to avoid him until an opening presents itself to her. Still if she was smart she would keep out of his way altogether but putting her in her place was just as good too.

Still the Dragon Hourglasses may prove a bit of a problem especially if one is found in Valgander but even if that is the case he has plans for that. For now waiting was his only plan as he needed to build his powerbase for a bit longer at least until the Church finishes its super weapon. But now he wondered if he should send Alexandria and Elizabeth to hunt down the Shield Hero and his allies to test him and his strength... no he should be the one to do it on his own time. Right now Shiro is currently indisposed with recent problems.

(Scene Break Shiro's Group)

In tree lines the group looked out and saw lands being tilled by Demihumans more then what they were used to seeing in Melromarc. "Ok that is a lot of Demihumans." Taiyo said as Raphtalia agreed with him.

"There does seem to be a lot of Demihumans in this region." Raphtalia said as she looked to the scene before them.

Melty meanwhile found this area to be familiar. "I wonder." Melty said and thus it hit her. "Oh right." Melty said as she remembered.

"What is it Melty?" Filo asked as she Ryuko, and Pete looked to Melty with curiosity.

"Well I know the nobleman in charge of this region." Melty said as she smiled to the group of heroes. "He's a good man he might just be able to help us out." Melty said with pride on this.

"A nobleman?" Tsubaki asked as she was a bit suspicious of this information.

"These days' humans treat demihumans as slaves but in the past some nobility encourage peaceful relations between the races." Melty said as they all grew silent as both Raphtalia and Conan began to grow silent to this. "He was a wonderful man and was the lord of the domain of Seaett." Melty said causing the two Demihumans to perk up at the name. "But after the first wave all the nobles who sides with him were banished under fathers orders to the most remote regions of the kingdom." Melty said and thus Tsubaki thought about it.

"I met Conan in such an area also." Tsubaki said as she remembered that area which was already pretty remote as is and the lord she had helped in retaking his domain from the usurper.

"What is the Kings problem with Demihumans?" Taiyo asked as he hated the King more and more now.

During this Shiro and Tsubaki both took note to Raphtalia and Conan who grew quiet. "Raphtalia what's wrong?" Shiro asked as he looked to the girl.

"Conan are you ok?" Tsubaki asked as it seems this topic was affecting the two of them.

"The village my family is from." Raphtalia began as she looked down sadly. "It was in the Seaette district." Raphtalia confessed much to Shiro's shock.

"I heard that after the first wave the Seaette region was badly hit by Rioters." Melty said as she heard of what had happened back then.

"It was." Jun said suddenly as she knew this was a hard topic for Raphtalia. "It was hit by rioters and then some." Jun said as she clenched her fist with rage building inside her.

"Raphtalia you don't have to tell us if you." Conan began as he knew what Raphtalia was going through but Raphtalia stopped him despite his good intentions.

"No its fine really." She said and thus Conan backed off to let Raphtalia speak.

"My village was attacked by attacked by a mob of Melromarc soldiers who were totally out of control." Raphtalia said as she heard this and thus it was clear the group were sickened by such things.

Just then Shiro hit his fist into the tree getting their attention. "Those bastards." Shiro growled as Taiyo agreed.

"The more I hear about them the more sick I am of this place." Taiyo added as Rino could understand. At first she wasn't all to in on Ryuko but after spending so long with her well the girl was basically her daughter at this point in every way that really counts.

Melty was quiet about this as she felt horrible over what happened while Jun felt similar. But for Jun she also felt angry because when she had heard about it among marcs she also heard that it wasn't exactly a 'riot of out of control soldiers,' back then.

"I'm sorry." Melty said getting everyone's attention.

"It's ok Melty it wasn't your fault." Conan said as he looked to Melty while Rishia agreed with the Wolf boy.

"As Royalty there must have been something we could have done." Melty said as she felt at fault for this due to her statues as royalty. "But we did nothing to help." Melty said as she clenched her dress in grief over this. "Raphtalia please tell me everything you know about those soldiers." Melty said getting Raphtalia's attention on this. "Once things have been cleared up I'll be sure they are brought to justice." Melty said as she had a look of determination in her eyes.

Raphtalia gained a small smile to this vow and thus knew Melty meant it. "Thank you." Raphtalia said as she was grateful that Melty would do that.

As they finished this topic Shiro knew they had to focus on the task at hand. The others also agreed with him on this. "So what can you tell us about this nobleman that you know?" Jun asked as she was back in business mode.

"Depends on what you want to know." Melty said as she looked to them.

"He lives around here right?" Jun asked and thus Melty had an answer.

"Yes he does." Melty said and thus Tsubaki went asking.

"Can we actually trust him?" Tsubaki asked as they needed to be sure this won't be some sort of ambush upon them.

Just then a new voice got their attention from behind. "You are indeed correct." A voice said and thus the group gasped and looked to see a blue haired noble with glasses smiling to them. He looked young and as he met with the mismatch group before him he also didn't give off any threatening vibes. Jun saw the darkness but it wasn't an evil or malicious one it was basically overshadowed by the light the good in the man. No doubt the dark side was dormant because things such as anger or rage had not been ignited to make it act.

Jun lowered her guard but still kept it up while the older members of the group all had their guard up. Just then Melty stepped up as she greeted the noble. "It's been far too long Reichnott." Melty greeted with a smile to the now identified Reichnott.

"Princess Melty it's so good to see you again." Reichnott greeted with a small bow to the royal. He then turned to the rest of the group as he didn't stop smiling even once. "It's a pleasure to meet you all, you may call me Van Reichnott I am the reigning Lord of this Region." Reichnott said as he looked to the group.

'Wait so this wimp is the noble of this land Melty talked about.' Taiyo thought as he saw the man. 'Still looking at hit stealth is crazy good how did he get close without any of us realizing it?' Taiyo thought as he saw his friends also had similar thoughts as he did.

Reichnott of course went on as they had pressing matters. "However this is no place for a chat why don't you come over to the house and we'll talk." Reichnott said as he looked to the group and thus with nothing to lose they agreed for now.

(Scene Break Reichnott's house)

The group were in a small dining room of sorts as they were explaining their current situation. It was a bit of a tight fit but none the less they all managed to fit into the room. "I see." Reichnott began as he learned of what happened. "So you reached my domain after escaping Melromarc's forces, is that it?" Reichnott asked as he looked out the window summarizing what he was told.

"Yeah." Shiro confirmed as he looked to the noble with suspicion.

"The Knights have informed me that your group had abducted Melty, brutalized and traumatized Malty, and stolen the Cardinal Weapons of the Sword and Bow Heroes can I say that account is accurate?" Reichnott asked as he looked to the group.

"That's a lie... well two of those things were a lie." Shiro said as he can't confirm what Malty went through.

"I thought so and trust me I have no love loss for Malty." Reichnott said as he looked to the group. "In fact when I ran into your group in the woods I was patrolling the area out of concern for Princess Melty." Reichnott said as he looked to the group. Just then the door opened and in turn several maids walked in pushing carts filled with trays of food. "You must be exhausted from your travels your more than welcome to rest up here for a while if you wish." Reichnott said and thus lunch was served.

Soon enough the table was filled with lots of food for the entire party but for some reason no one was eating at the moment, with Filo and Ryuko getting a bit drolly to the site of the food as Filo asked, "Wow! Can I eat now master?"

"Not yet Filo, not until we're sure it's safe to eat and we can trust this guy," Shiro said as suddenly Reichnott reach out to his plate and grab a piece of food, as even all the plate were dished up with all the same foods, he just picked one and ate it to show it wasn't poisonous as Reichnott said, "Absolutely exquisite. Rest assure the food is not poisonous."

Shiro got annoyed at that, not because the guy was trying to show he could be trust worthy, but because he had picked at his plate of food, he hated when someone else take a piece of food off his plate like that. But regardless Shiro just turned away as Filo said, "Alright everyone time to eat!"

As Filo, Pete were about to eat with their hands until Raphtalia called out, "Filo, where are your manners? Put that down!"

Filo put down the piece of bread she had and pick up her fork and knife and did it normal as no doubt Shiro and Raphtalia were both trying to teach the young girl how to eat with silverware when she's not in her Filolial form, with Pete saw this as he didn't want to be rude either as he try to pick up the silverware but he could not grab one due to his fingers being so big and just push them around until Jun said, "Just eat with your hands Pete, no one will judge you for having big hand."

"Thank you," Pete said as he use his hand and pretty much grab everything on his plate and put it in his mouth and chew it as everyone was eating expect for Jun and Shiro as Shiro didn't like it with Jun still questioning about the guy himself as Raphtalia said, "Come on Shiro, I'm sure it's safe to eat."

"You should eat too boss, you shouldn't starve yourself," Demonicon said as Melty looks at the two of them and said, "It's incredibly rude to cast such doubts on his graces hospitality."

"We're not going to be here as long, as we're leaving first thing in the morning at dawn," Shiro said as he soon ate with Jun who sighed and ate as well with Melty look at them and asked, "Why so soon?"

"Understand this princess Melty, the longer we do stay here, the more danger we put ourselves in, no doubt the kingdom will sniff us out here as well," Jun said as she explain it to her as no doubt the king didn't give the order to stop looking for them anytime soon as Melty said, "Well yes, but I… I was hoping to rest a bit more."

"Taiyo use the silver wear properly!" Rino was heard as they looked and saw Taiyo and Ryuko were a bit sloppy with their food.

"Come on Rino food is food." Taiyo defended but Rino would not have it.

"Taiyo we need to set an example for Ryuko." Rino said as she was being strict on this. "After all it's already a struggle not to let her learn curse words from you." Rino said as she was very uptight about this.

"Oh come on Rino." Taiyo defended as Ryuko had more.

"Yeah don't be a buzz kill." Ryuko added no doubt using a word she learned from Taiyo.

"Well looks like we know who the fun and strict parents are." Tsubaki joked as Ail chuckled a bit to this as did Rishia.

Just then Reichnott spoke up to get the groups attention. "Princess Melty if you'll allow me to say so it appears you've grown." Reichnott said as he looked to Melty causing her to perk up to this. "In the past you used to reflect a mature attitude that went beyond your years." Reichnott said having a feeling this odd ball group played a role in it. "However since you've been travelling with the Shield, Sword, and Bow Heroes I would say it's helped you to grow and I mean that in a good way." The noble said and thus Melty was surprised by those words.

Seeing a chance Taiyo smirked and thus Rino gave the Dragon Knights Pactmaker a glare. "Taiyo don't you dare." Rino began but it was too late.

"I'm sure he actually means that in a bad way." Taiyo spoke and thus Melty glared at Taiyo.

"WHAT YOU KEEP QUIET YOU!" Melty yelled as she looked at Taiyo while standing up.

"Melty sit down we're trying to eat here." Jun said calmly as she ate her food.

"But Taiyo started it!" Melty yelled as she looked over to Jun.

"I don't care who started it I'm ending it." Jun countered as it was clear she just wanted to eat peacefully. During all of this Reichnott smiled as he was happy to see that Melty had changed for the better. Nearby Rino and Raphtalia sighed as it was Rino who voiced her woes.

"It's like I'm raising two instead of one." Rino sighed rubbing her head in frustration to this.

"Is it always like this?" Rishia asked as she looked to the scene before her.

"No sometimes its random stupidity from Sir Taiyo." Ail said as true to his word Taiyo and Ryuko were playing a game of food in the mouth where they throw food at each other trying to get it to land in their mouths. Rino seeing this yelled at them both to stop and behave as clearly this entire group was a band of misfits.

(Scene Break Bedroom)

The parties were provided with four separate guest rooms once for each party since they couldn't all fit in one even if they shared beds. "Wow this feels amazing." Filo cried out as she laid on her bed as they were all gathered in one room at the moment. "It's so soft and bouncy!" Filo cheered as she rolled in the bed.

"Hey I want a turn!" Ryuko called out as she looked to Filo no doubt wanting turn also.

At the window the Three Heroes plus one weaponless hero were keeping a look out of things as Melty saw this. "You four should get some rest why don't you sleep?" Melty asked as she looked to them.

"Yes you need to be at full strength don't you?" Rishia asked with concern for the group.

"There's no way of knowing when this place is going to be attacked." Shiro said as he had reason to be worried for what may or may not happen.

"I personally make it a point of not sleeping at times like these." Jun said as she glared a bit.

"Taiyo you need your rest if we're going to get the Cardinal Spear we're going to have to fight for it and we can't fight for it if you drop dead from exhaustion." Rino said as she looked to Taiyo. "Now you're going to sleep and that is that." Rino said taking control of the situation here.

"I... fine." Taiyo said as Shiro smirked a bit.

"Is that a whip I hear, Taiyo?" Shiro joked causing Taiyo to glare at Shiro for that one even if it's true.

"Shiro why don't Demonicon and I keep watch, that way you and Jun can go ahead and get some sleep." Raphtalia said as she looked to the two.

"Yeah boss no offense but you still need to work out a few kinks with that sword of yours." Demonicon said as he knew Jun was still learning on how to use the Cardinal Sword.

"I can take watch also Tsubaki." Conan added as he looked over to Tsubaki also volunteering to take first watch.

Shiro, Jun, and Tsubaki all looked at each other for a second and thus knew they needed the sleep. "Alright." Shiro said opting not to argue about this for the time being.

"Wait a minute why do you three listen to what Raphtalia, Demonicon, and Conan have to say but not to me?" Melty asked as she looked to the trio in shock.

"Don't worry about it." Jun said as in turn she got ready to head to her room.

Seeing this Ryuko, Pete, and Filo glanced at each other before nodding as well. "I know we can all do some exploring around this place." Filo said Ryuko smiled to this.

Seeing the offer Melty smiled a bit and opted to agree. "Sure let's go." Melty said as in turn the three girls headed off.

"Yay adventure!" Ryuko called out as she joined Filo and Melty leaving Pete behind for a moment. Shiro laid down on his bed before Jun looked to Pete.

"Pete go with them if you want." Jun said and thus Pete nodded and headed out with the girls to keep an eye on them.

"Jeez Pete is such a big softy." Demonicon said with a sigh. "Well we're heading to our room don't burn down the place." Demonicon said and thus he and Jun left.

"Same." Taiyo said as he also took his leave with Rino.

"Ok but no hanky-panky I don't think Ryuko wants a baby brother or sister anytime soon." Shiro teased and thus the two heard this looked at each other while blushing before looking away.

"Shiro that was a low blow." Tsubaki scolded a bit while smiling before yawning. "Well I need my sleep too so I'll see you all in the morning." Tsubaki said and thus they were all leaving the room.

(With Jun and Demonicon)

"You know... I've noticed you're kind of protective of that girl." Demonicon said as he followed after Jun in the hall. Of course Jun stayed quiet there as they got to their door. "Look you don't have to talk about it boss... but through I've got an eye for these things, one of these days you're going to tell or I'm going to figure it out but regardless of what it is... your still our boss no matter what dirty secret you got." Demonicon said as Jun stopped at the door and thus sighed.

"Melty reminds me of my sister, Kizuna." Jun said with her hand on the door. "And Malty reminds me of myself before Kizuna..." Jun said and thus Demonicon got the gist.

"I see." Demonicon said before entering the room after opening the door. "Well doesn't change the fact you're the boss, but take comfort in this... at least your trying to be better." Demonicon said and thus Jun was left there shocked by this as Demonicon entered the door.

Jun smiled and gritted her teeth as she tried to hold back the tears through it. "You damn bonehead." Jun said as she looked to the door before entering it as well to get some rest.

(Meanwhile outside with Filo, Melty, Ryuko, and Pete)

"What's wrong Mel?" Ryuko asked as she and Filo sat on either side of Melty with Pete sitting cross legged behind him and still towering over them a bit.

"I don't know why but I think I've been acting really spoiled since meeting Jun and her friends." Melty said as she looked down at her hands. "Even my speech has become more, crude as well." Melty said as Ryuko and Filo listened to what Melty has to say. "I feel like a different person and I'm not sure I like her." Melty finished and thus Filo thought it over.

"Well I um..." Filo began as she was lost on how to help.

This got a chuckle from Melty as she looked to the two girls. "I'm sorry you don't really understand me do you?" Melty asked as she looked between Filo and Melty.

"Well not exactly but we still love you." Filo said as she spoke for herself and Ryuko which got Melty's attention. "I mean you always look so cheerful and everything when you're talking to master and Big Sis Jun so I can tell you like them." Filo said as she looked away a bit to which Ryuko agreed with a happy nod to Melty causing Melty to blush in response.

"Oh I know if you want I bet Aunty Jun can dote on you if you really try hard enough." Ryuko said with a smile on her face as she looked to Melty who thought it over.

Melty had to admit Jun seemed very adamant about keeping her safe from harm. The first few nights they travelled prior to the Wave Jun seemed to zoom in when Melty was doing something. It wasn't like with Malty whom always had that bitterness and dark aura from her for Jun it was like she was trying to ensure no harm came to her and hoping no harm came to her outside her watch. In a way it was how she often pictured the ideal elder sister she wanted would have acted. Though she also noted Jun kept Melty at a distance as well almost like she was afraid that if they grew to close something would happen to Melty. Whatever it was that was going on Melty prayed that Jun would open up because honestly she felt she had a sister in Jun more than she did in Malty.

(Scene Break that Night Castle Melromarc)

Knights both regular and mech Knights were prepped for deployment to the boarder of Siltvelt. This would show the Demihumans of that country Melromarc new found might as well as aid in capturing the Shield Hero and his allies. "You still haven't found her!" Aultcray yelled as her was beyond furious now as he glared down on the kneeling Knights before him with Malty off to the side. Malty was dressed in new armor since she had yet to reclaim the one Jun stripped from her. She was not a happy camper herself as Malty's hair had yet to grow back opting her to order a hair growth tonic to regain her crimson locks. Right now she was wearing the wig Jun had made of her own hair after shaving it off and needless to say was holing in her rage. "If anything happens to Melty I'll have every one of your miserable heads on a pike!" Aultcray yelled as he glared at the Knights.

"Yes sire." The Knights responded and then left to return to the search. Once they did so Aultcray tiredly sat upon his throne and sighed a bit. They have lost both the Sword and Bow Weapons to the Shield leaving only the Spear in their possession. Aultcray was informed of what had occurred and to think he never suspected Jun impersonating his beloved daughter for nearly two weeks while dear Malty was made to suffer in a prison camp bruised, beaten, bald, and helpless.

Malty seeing her father's discomfort bowed to her before speaking. "Rest assured father I promise you I will find Melty and bring her back home to us." she said just before her wig began to slide off for this. Malty noting this fixed her wig as it was the only one Jun had not went into town to burn while under her guise. She clearly wanted Malty to know that this was once her hair and Jun had used it to impersonate her so flawlessly.

"Do what you can." Aultcray ordered and thus Malty took her leave of her father. When he was left alone Aultcray grit his teeth as the Alchemist had suddenly vanished but not before leaving behind a great deal of his research and with it the ability to construct their own Knights. But the cost was taxing to the people but sacrifices had to be made for salvation after all. "This can't happen to my family again." Aultcray said as he remembered another time and another place where his family suffered a great loss before he became king before he came to Melromarc before he had joined the war between Siltvelt and Melromarc. "How much do you intend to make me suffer, accursed Shield!" Aultcray snarled as he then slammed his fist onto his chair to show his contempt for Shiro, his allies, the Demihumans, and most of all the Cardinal Shield that binds that group together.

(Scene Break That same night Shiro's room)

Shiro began to wake up a bit as he knew shift change was soon. It was part of what he had been doing since they had been on the run and in turn Melty saw it. "You're up?" Melty asked as she looked to Shiro who began to sit up.

"Yeah I'll take over now." Shiro said as he looked to Melty.

Its fine I'm really not very sleepy actually." Melty said as she looked to Shiro.

Seeing something wasn't right Shiro looked to the crown princess. "What's wrong?" Shiro asked as he looked to Melty with concern for her.

"Shiro I..." Melty began as Shiro then swung his legs over the edge of the bed and waited. "I was just thinking that as a crown princess should I really keep running like this?" Melty asked as she looked out the window. "As a member of the Royal Family there's just so much more I can be doing." Melty said as no doubt the entire ordeal was catching up to her. "But I find that I'm doing nothing because I keep running." Melty said no doubt upset with how little she had done since she came home.

"Melty it can't be helped." Shiro began as he looked to the Princess. "Your Kingdom needs you but you can't serve it if you're dead." Shiro explained as he knew how this went. "If you die Malty will end up as the only heir and no offense to you or your family but she is the worst choice for an heir." Shiro said as he looked to Melty who showed signs of listening. "First you need to get to safety and that's in Faubey with your mom once that is done then we can worry about your duties once we get her here." Shiro said as he began to put his boots on.

"But I feel so... pathetic." Melty said and Shiro sighed to this.

"Don't be so hard on yourself Melty just rest for a bit if not Jun will murder me." Shiro said as he also felt Jun would even go through with it if Melty got hurt under his watch. "The time will come when something only you can do will occur but until then just rest." Shiro said and thus Melty nodded and went under the blanket.

"Ok... goodnight Shiro." Melty said and thus went to sleep.

"Yeah goodnight." Shiro responded before he began his watch. At least until he heard noises coming from Raphtalias bed. Hearing this Shiro walked over and in turn saw that Raphtalia was having a nightmare and thus he knew what to do. He put his hand on hers and gently squeezed it causing Raphtalia to calm down before she could shoot up and wake everyone else up. 'Poor thing... it's, happening again isn't it.' Shiro thought as he knew something about this place had triggered those nightmares in her.

(Scene Break the Next Morning)

Raphtalia's dreams were of another Demihuman being pulled via a chain around her neck. Seeing this Raphtalia suddenly awoke with a shock. "Rifana!" Raphtalia cried out in shock and in turn saw that morning had come.

"You ok?" Shiro asked as he looked to see Raphtalia breathing hard.

When Raphtalia heard Shiro speaking to her she then looked over to see Shiro was currently in full gear as were Taiyo, Tsubaki, and Jun whom had no doubt arrived after they saw something. Most of their parties were here and from the looks of things it seems that the only ones who were missing were Melty, Filo, Ryuko, and Pete.

"Yes." Raphtalia said and thus Jun spoke up.

"Then suit up we got trouble." Jun said as she then looked outside the window with Shiro as did Raphtalia who saw what they saw.

When she saw this Raphtalia gasped in shock and knew trouble had caught up to them. "Why is the lord being taken away?" Raphtalia asked in shock over what she was seeing.

Just then one of the houses maids came in and it was noted that she looked quiet panicked. "Heroes! You and your parties must leave at once!" She exclaimed with panic as she looked to the heroes.

"What's going on?" Taiyo asked as he looked to the Maid.

"A nobleman from the next town marched in here and accused us of hiding you!" The Maid explained and thus they all got panicked.

"Shit." Rino cursed realizing they were in trouble.

(Later)

The group was charging through the halls as the Maid led them through. Clearly they were in a rush as the Maid led them on through. The knights were already looking for them and needless to say they had little time to act and no time for a battle. "The kitchen is the only safe way out." The Maid said as she led the group through the house.

"Wait, where is Melty and Filo?" Shiro asked as he noted those girls were not with them.

"And while we're on the subject where is Ryuko?" Rino asked and thus Demonicon had this to say.

"Probably with Pete haven't seen the big lug since we woke up." Demonicon said as he ran with the group.

Eventually they happened upon Knights looking for them and overheard them speak. Seeing this they needed another way out as Kuro was no doubt hiding outside somewhere with Takaya waiting to be called. "Quickly, this way." The Maid said opting to use a different yet safer route as she lead them through before the Knights could close in on them.

(Later in the kitchen)

The knights kicked down the door to find a lone Maid working in the kitchen. "Hey what are you all doing?" The Knight asked as he looked to the four maids.

"Preparing Lunch." The Maid answered as she looked to the Knights before her.

"Well forget that, come here!" The Soldier ordered as he grabbed the unnamed Maid.

Shiro, Raphtalia, Taiyo, Rino, Jun, Demonicon, Tsubaki, Ail, and Conan were all hiding in the closet as they saw through the gaps of the door to see what was going on. They all looked to each other debating whether to jump in or not at least until they heard a new voice.

"What do you think you are doing?!" Melty was heard ordering as the group went wide eyed to this as Jun then looked outside to see Jun there. "I am Melty Melromarc, Second Princess of Melromarc." Melty said as she stood before them using her royal tone with them. "Let her go right now, I command you two to cease this behavior at once!" Melty ordered as she looked to the Knight before her.

"What should we do?" One of the Knights asked as he looked to his ally.

"I'm not sure." His friend responded as he looked just as loss.

Just then a new voice was heard which made Raphtalia go wide eyed to this in recognition. "My, my; if it isn't Princess Melty." The voice said as it belonged to a fat noble whom had the air of arrogance and showed close minded views common among Melromarcs nobles.

In the closet Shiro saw Raphtalia get on edge and thus knew that this man and her shared a history. Thus Shiro put a calming hand on hers and surprised her. "Let's wait and see what happens." Shiro said as Jun didn't like it as this man made her sick.

"That man his arrogance his racist views are all in the darkness surrounding him." Jun said as she saw the aura of black around the man contrasting with Melty's brighter soul.

"Aren't you?" Melty began as she looked to the man before her.

"I am so glad that you are alright Princess Melty. I was so worried for your safety that I rushed right over here." the Noble said as he bowed to Melty whom was suspicious of this man.

"Idol Rabier...I've heard that you've had disagreements with my father in the past." Melty said as she looked to the noble before her.

"You have heard correctly." the now identified Idol Rapier answered as he bowed to the crown princess Melty.

"So I am to assume that these are your troops?" Melty asked as she figured this may have been his doing.

"Indeed they are." Idol responded again as he was clearly unaware his targets were currently hidden inside the closet.

"Have them withdrawn from this premises immediately!" Melty ordered as she glared at the man before her.

"Before that, where is the Devil of the Shield as well as the Witch of the Moon and the Black Winged Demoness?" Idol asked he knew if Melty was here so were the Shield and his allies.

"All I can tell you is that the Shield Hero with the Sword and Bow Heroines are gone." Melty began as she stood her ground here. "I encouraged them to escape there is no way your men will ever catch them they are too far away." Melty lied but showed no form of doing so as she looked the man straight in the eye. Needless to say Jun was impressed with Melty but still could not shake off the dread forming in her stomach as she saw this happen. "I intend to talk to father directly and inform him what really happened. So you will take me to the capital as soon as possible so that I may clear the Shield Hero's name as well as the true Bow and Sword Heroes names." Melty said as she looked at the man before her.

"I understand. I will make arrangements for your journey at my mansion...Take her." he ordered the soldiers making Jun go wide eyed to this. She was ready to act but was stopped by Tsubaki.

"Jun don't!" Tsubaki urged as she looked to her friend.

"No don't she'll be in danger if she goes with him!" Jun urged as she struggled to get free.

"Boss think she's taking a gamble to save us don't waste it!" Demonicon said as he looked to Jun as she had a frantic look in her eyes.

"I can't let her become another Kizuna!" Jun urged as she tried her best to get free but her friends would not let her.

"Jun please Kizuna wouldn't want you to kill yourself over her!" Shiro urged and thus this got Jun to calm down as she lowered her hand from her Legendary Sword. Eventually Melty was out of the room with Idol and the Knights and in turn began to leave the mansion.

(Scene Break that afternoon Jun)

Eventually the coast was clear and thus Shiro, Tsubaki, and Taiyo with their parties began to search for Filo, Pete, and Tsubaki. Jun didn't join the search as she stood outside at the forest fountain and was smiling. But her eyes they were dull and almost lifeless as she stood there for a moment. "Kizuna... did you see me?" Jun suddenly spoke to no one there. "I screwed up again I couldn't save someone who became precious to me." Jun said as she stood there with a smile that had no joy or malice in it. "If I had more power... if I didn't choke up with fear of death like with you... maybe I could have... saved..." Jun said as she then suddenly fell to her knees. "If I had more power if I could hold onto that power long enough I could have... surely I could have." Jun spoke as her voice began to crack as in turn years upon years of anguish, self-loathing, and hatred began to spill out like a damn.

In turn the tears came and with it Jun's scream followed as she screamed out in rage, screamed out in anguish, and screamed out with sadness as the tears spilled out. "Shut up just shut your mouth you bitch!" Jun yelled as she was now on her hands and knees with tears flowing like a flood. "I'm not like you! I'm nothing like you! I'll get more power I'll get all the power I can gather and I'll use it to make sure nothing is ever taken from me again!" Jun yelled as she was now seeing this. "I won't let someone like Shappur come by to take my power and I sure as hell won't let you take my power Malty you fucking bitch!" Jun yelled out to the heavens above as her Legendary Weapon took in her feelings and thus the gem grew dark and dull for it. It flowed from Jun as her grief had reached its zenith now that it could no longer be held back. It flowed as Jun felt wage at her weakness and an emptiness forming at the pit of her stomach.

That emptiness went further to her chest and in turn she felt the hunger. She needed more power she needed that power to make sure she didn't lose anything or anyone else she cherished. Even if she must sell her soul to evil she'll do it if her loved ones would be left unharmed and safe. But unaware to Jun an alert appeared on her Statues screen as she grieved.

"REQUIREMENTS MET CURSE SERIES UNLOCKED: GLUTTONY AND GREED."

But despite how much she unleashed Jun opted to grit her teeth and stand back up. As she stood up she saw darkness around her and in turn felt comfort for it as before her the Black Knight stood before her. "I can still get her back can't I Dinivas?" Jun asked suddenly as Dinivas towered before her. "You're not finished with me Dinivas and I'm not finished with you. Difference is I'll never be finished with you." Jun said as she glared at Dinivas as a representation of all of her demons of all her mistakes and choices given a dark form by her mind. "I need power and I need it to hold on to what I have left so I will NEVER be finished with you." Jun said and thus she closed her eyes and allowed the darkness around her to be absorbed into the Cardinal Sword.

It was in her own mind yes but as she opened her eyes again the world was back to where she left it. She then turned around and saw her friends there and by the looks of it they were ready to move. "Jun we decided that we're going to save Melty so you in?" Taiyo asked as he looked to Jun.

"Do you have to ask?" Jun asked and thus walked to them with her cape billowing behind her. "Let's move the more time we waste the more danger Kizuna... I mean Melty is in." Jun said as she had to remind herself this was Melty not Kizuna.

(Scene Break Idol's Domain that same evening)

The group had arrived with the sun already down as night had come, with everyone preparing to storm the castle to rescue Melty, with Raphtalia looking over the Domain itself, remembering the times she went through with her friend and other demi-human children that were lock up in a cage together before her thought was interrupted by Shiro as he saw her reaction seeing the land she once lived in.

"I guess you know this Idol guy. Is he the reason for your nightmares?" Shiro said as Raphtalia bowed her head a bit in shame to that as she said, "Yes."

"You can stay behind if you want, let me and everyone take care of that scum, same to you Conan if you don't feel up for it," Shiro said as Conan shake his head to this and said, "I'm not afraid to fight for what's right."

"So am I, I'm not afraid anymore sense I have my sword," Raphtalia said as she put a hand over her iron magic sword as she turn to Shiro and said, "I am ready to face my past."

"That's a good attitude, we're going to need it for what's the come," Jun said as Tsubaki said, "We may have a lucky break at least."

"What's up?" Taiyo asked with Tsubaki was looking through her bow's scope as she saw a commotion going on outside the fat nobleman's house and it was all the demi-humans from Reichnott's land as they were calling out to have their lord back as Tsubaki reported it to the group as Shiro said, "That good at least, with all the guard attention on them we can sneak around back. Let's move."

Shiro and Raphtalia gotten on Filo with Taiyo and Rino gotten on Ryuko, Jun gotten on Takaya alone, as Taiyo lend the dragon to her with Ryuko telling the dragon to go with Jun, as with Tsubaki, Conan Demonicon, Pete, and Ali the only ones without a ride of sort with Tsubaki said, "You can can't head around the place, while Conan, and Ali will try to help out up crowd just in case while I also provide any cover from the distant if needed."

Tsubaki knew she was best for long distant and her party were good for med to close quarter combat with their skills, no doubt they could handle any guard that would attack the Demi-human. Plus since Shiro has support magic he was in the clear there for this also.

"Alright, then I'll lead the way just in case we meet any resistant, with Taiyo and Jun, you two and your parties go in and look for Melty," Shiro said before he took off first with Jun and Taiyo following as with Demonicon and Pete try to follow the best they can behind as they leap around the deep ditch that surrounds the manor.

(Inside)

"Look at those damn Demi's." Idol said as he look out his window of his study room with Melty in there as well with him as she said, "What are they doing out there, why are they protesting?"

"Just some annoying flies, buzzing around. Nothing to worry about. We'll get rid of them at once, and sense we're mentioning annoyance my dear, I believe it's time to tell me where the devil of the shield is along with the moon witch and black wing Demoness are at."

"I've already told you several times, I do not know," Melty said courageously without backing down her stair as suddenly the doors open and to Melty shock to see the man that had help her and also the other heroes with their party as she said, "Reichnott?!"

Idol had made his way over to Reichnott and thus proceeded to grab him by his hair. "Where are those damn devils?!" Idol demanded as he glared at Reichnott.

Despite the pain he was feeling Van refused to give Idol what he wanted. "I have no idea who you're speaking of, the only Shield I've head of is the shield Hero." Van said and in turn got punched in the gut by Idol having the air knocked out of him.

"As you can see we are having a difficult time getting him to cooperate." Idol said as Melty was shocked over what she saw. "I would very much like to avoid getting rough with you if that's at all possible." Idol began as Van Reichnott was taken away by his guards. "But as a humble servant of God, whom has at last descended upon our world, I have taken a sacred vow to punish anyone who dares to side with the devil." Idols aid as Melty heard what he said as Idol held his rosary of the Three Heroes church. "That is my holy duty dear princess." Idol said as now Melty was filled with fear.

(Meanwhile with the Parties)

Shiro, Raphtalia, and Filo came in as Jun and Taiyo with their parties kept the high ground making their way to the Nobles House. As they came in Shiro saw the opposition and drew his sword while switching to his venom shield. "Ok we got opposition!" Shiro called out as he was ready for battle. "Filo you go on ahead we'll keep things busy here!" Shiro said as he knew full well no plan survived first contact with the enemy. In turn Raphtalia came in and managed to bash through the Knights avoiding any lethal blows against them. Following it up was Shiro who used his shield to bash them as well before passing through the Archway. Following it up was Filo as the Knight gave chase to stop the heroes from entering. But of course Filo was ready and thus used her High Quick to blow away her enemies with ease.

During this Raphtalia had a flashback to her past when she passed by this same archway before. It in turn resulted with her nearly losing focus and was brought back by Tsubaki who fired off her arrows at the attacking Knights. Once she regained herself they were in the main courtyard fighting their way through the enemy Knights as best they can.

"No mech Knights thus far." Shiro said as that was either a good thing or a bad thing... but for some reason he felt there was worse to see. Once they did so Raphtalia stopped by a passage way down below as Shiro took note of this while Filo broke through the walls. "Raphtalia what's wrong?" Shiro asked as he looked to the girl and saw she was quiet while looking at the passage way. Seeing it to Shiro had a cold feeling about it and thus knew whatever it was it was not good. "Raphtalia we can come back here AFTER we rescue Melty." Shiro said and thus Raphtalia agreed.

"Alright." Raphtalia said agreeing with this plan of action for the time being.

"There they are!" A Knight was heard and thus the duo soon saw they were being attacked. Raphtalia of course attacked and managed to beat them back but as they saw this they all knew they needed an ace.

Then much to Shiro's shock they drew forth Gigas cards and thus Shiro was left wide eyed to this. "No." Shiro gasped at what he was seeing.

"Adveni." the Knights invoked and thus activated the cards. Following it up was the Knights transforming into Gigas and surrounding the group in turn. As the Gigas all roared and held their weapons Raphtalia was wide eyed at what she was seeing.

"Gigas outside the Waves?!" Raphtalia gasped as she thought they were only found during the waves.

"Where did they get all the cards for them?!" Shiro asked as he tried to make sense of this.

As they were about to attack magic bolts hit them and knocked them back a bit and thus Shiro looked to see Conan with Ail coming in. "Meteor Shot!" Tsubaki invoked firing Itsuki's attack and thus was amazed that it was more potent in her hands then it was in Itsuki's.

"Tsubaki." Shiro began as his shield shifted to the White Knight's Ark.

"I know." Tsubaki said as her own bow shifted to the Moon Maiden's Ark.

"O Wizel White Warrior Wielder of the Ancient Sword." Shiro began as he began his invocation to summon the White Knight.

"O Luthea Ardent Goddess and Beacon in the ancient Knight." Tsubaki chanted as she also began her invocation for her Knight to battle.

"Grant me you're Power." They both finished and thus had their Arks ready. "Verto!" They both invoked and thus as the Gigas came forth the White Knight and Moon Maiden were ready for battle.

"Attack!" A Knight ordered and thus the Gigas charged in to attack the two Knight not realizing in the ancient past the Knights lead the Gigas into battle.

"Come on!" Shiro roared out and thus he and Tsubaki charged in with their Knights as Raphtalia, Conan, and Ail handled the ground troops.

(Meanwhile with Jun and Taiyo)

Jun and Taiyo with their party members had entered the estate from a different route and had already met with opposition for it. As they fought their way through Jun's sword transformed into something similar to Shiro's Venom Shield and thus allowed a snake to come forth and bite down on her foe when she parried his sword.

The Knight cried out in pain as he held the bite mark as Jun stood over him after pushing him down. "That is a potent Poison that will kill you within the hour at best." Jun said as she glared down at the Knight before her. "I have the antidote so if you want to live you're going to tell me where Melty is being kept." Jun said making her demands clear for this bastard.

"Uh Jun." Taiyo said and thus he pointed to the battles nearby and thus they saw a mass of Gigas attacking with the White Knight and Moon Maiden Fighting back.

"We need to help them." Rino said as she saw what was happening.

"Go just be sure to meet back up with me." Jun said as she then looked to the Knight who was ready to lead Jun to Idol.

"Ryuko fine Melty!" Taiyo ordered and thus Ryuko nodded.

"Oh papa!" Ryuko called out and thus charged through the walls to find where Melty was.

"Did she have to do that?" Demonicon asked as he looked at the hole, Ryuko left only to see Filo making another one with her own search causing them to go wide eyed. "I guess so." Demonicon said with a shrug and thus Taiyo and Rino nodded to each other.

They ran outside and in turn began to summon the Dragon Knight to battle. "O Larvain Vermillion Drake Leveler of Ancient Lands Grant me your power!" Taiyo called out as Rino held on to him as they fell down from a window. "Verto!" He called out with his Ark secured around his waist and in turn the Dragon Knight appeared landing with Rino held in its hands. Once he landed Taiyo spread his Knights wings and flew off to aid Tsubaki and Shiro with their battles.

(Back with Shiro and Tsubaki)

The two Knights were making great progress in dealing with the Gigas as thankfully Tsubaki had air superiority on her side for this. As they continued to fight through them a small group came at them only for Taiyo to appear in his Dragon Knight and stab one in the back before spinning the trident and hitting the others as well. Rino then jumped off and slashed at another Knight as she joined with Ail, Raphtalia, and Conan.

"Taiyo did you find Melty?" Shiro asked as the three Knights regrouped.

"No but Jun is on it!" Taiyo said and thus Shiro may not say it aloud he was worried about it.

"Shiro go on ahead and meet up with Jun!" Tsubaki said as she was also worried about it. "We'll hold the line here." She added and thus Shiro nodded to this.

"Raphtalia!" Shiro called out and in turn Raphtalia nodded and when she saw Shiro vanish his sword she knew to climb on. Once that was done the White Knight took a running start before it then jumped to the wall of the tower. Once it was done he dug his feet and hands in creating holes to grip on with and thus held on tight. Shiro then began to climb as the way he did it reminded him of Gargoyles back in the 80's or 90's.

As He climbed the Knights all saw this and knew they needed to stop Shiro. "Fire upon the White Knight!" A Knight ordered and in turn the White Knight was attacked with magic and arrows to keep it from going further. The attacks hit as Raphtalia hid close to the White Knights chest to defend herself with the Knights back.

"Shiro!" Taiyo cried out and thus Conan, Ail, and Rino knew what to do.

"Go!" Rino called out and thus she and the demihuman and magic caster all went on the attack taking out the Knights to lighten the attacks on Shiro. The three worked in unison as they helped ease up the struggle of Shiro as he free climbed the wall with his Knight. After all just because the White Knight can't fly doesn't mean it can't climb.

(Meanwhile with Melty and Idol)

Melty was currently backed into a corner as Idol came upon the now scared young Princess. "Stay away!" Melty yelled as she was ready to defend herself should the need arrive which it might very well.

"I truly adore this part." Idol said as the sick noble was much like the one that Tsubaki had met long ago. Difference is that this man was in fact a noble and not a usurper of the domain. "That valiant look in your eye, I want to see it become despair watch as your fate warps in agony." Idol said as he looked at Melty ready to break her to his, hearts content. "Come on let me have a good look at you!" He called out and thus Melty closed her eyes expecting the worse.

Just then the entire estate shook from the battles and the two transforming girls bashing through the walls. "Now what the hell is going on out there?!" Idol asked as he looked to where it may have come from.

"Idol sir the devils have entered the GAUGH!?" The Knight spoke before he yelled in shock over what he saw behind Melty and Idol.

"They've done what?!" Idol asked as he then looked to his window only to cry out in shock as well when he saw the White Knights face in it.

"Peekaboo!" Shiro called out as he looked ready to punch a hole through the wall. "I see you!" Shiro called out and thus bashed a hole into the wall causing the entire place to get wrecked for it.

Following it up came Pete, Filo, and Ryuko crashing through the wall looking for Melty. "Mel are you alright?!" Filo asked as she looked to Melty.

"I'm alright, Filo, Pete, Ryuko; Raphtalia." Melty said as Raphtalia jumped off Shiro to join up with the three girls.

But before she could go far Idol grabbed Melty by her hair and pulled her back and held a sword at her neck. "Don't you dare take one step and I'll have the pleasure of making sure the princess's head will roll all the way home." Idol said and thus Shiro knew what to do.

"Good to know, Airstrike Shield!" Shiro called out and thus forced Idol away from Melty from his spot outside and following it up was Idol getting a dagger to his hand that held the sword. He cried out in pain from it as Filo came in and head-butt him and following it up was Pete grabbing Idol's head and slamming him down into the ground. Once this was done Pete jumped over to Melty and looked her over.

"Are you ok, Mel?" Pete asked as despite how scary he looked he still was a total softy to others.

"Good work." Jun said as she walked showing she threw the dagger before tossing the antidote over to the Knight. The Knight then ran off to fine cover from the battle.

"Why did you come back?" Melty asked and thus Jun was the one who spoke.

"We're heroes aren't we, saving children and damsels in distress is in the job description." Jun said as she then glared at Idol in full contempt.

Melty then turned away with a huff. "Well you realized you wasted all my hard work." Melty said and thus Shiro was the one to reply.

"Hey." Shiro said still in his White Knight form.

"But thank you." Melty said suddenly and thus Jun smiled to this as everyone began to regroup.

Meanwhile as Idol got up he saw he was cornered now as one on side he had the White Knight and his only exit was blocked by Jun and Shiro's allies. "You dare make a mockery of me?" Idol asked as the fat noble got his feet back under him. "Torture clearly isn't enough for the likes of you." Idol said as Jun pushed Melty behind her ready to protect her at a moment's notice. Idol pulled out a whip and clearly was ready to use it on them. "Your insolence can only be paid for with death!" He called out and thus Shiro had enough of this guy.

"Normally I'd say thanks for paying the bill." Shiro said as his Knight then vanished and in turn Shiro was seen at the ledge glaring at Idol. "But lucky for you you're not my demon to bury now." Shiro said glaring at Idol in pure contempt.

In turn footsteps were head and in turn Raphtalia began to march her way to Idol as everyone took note of this. All eyes were on her as Shiro knew he had to stay out of this since it was Raphtalia's demon to bury. Growling out Idol swung his whip at Raphtalia and it in turn hit her in the arm. If it caused her pain then the Demihuman girl hid it well but got Filo worried.

"Raphtalia!" Filo cried out when she saw this only for Jun to stop the Filolial.

"Wait." Jun said as she looked to Raphtalia knowing they both had demons in their lives.

"You miserable worthless demi!" Idol yelled and swung his whip at Raphtalia and got a few more licks in on her but the lashes did nothing to stop her. When Raphtalia got close the man swung his whip again only for the girl to slice through it with her sword.

Everyone was quiet through the whole ordeal and in turn simply watched with batted breaths as Idol fell over on his ass in fear of the girl before him. "I beg you oh please!" He begged as he scooted away from Raphtalia changing his tone before. In turn Raphtalia pointed her sword directly at the fat noble's neck ready to end him if he gives her reason to. Of course his begging only made her push the sword further to his neck making him cry out in fear. "Spare my life I'll give you anything!" Idol begged as he clearly was afraid of death.

"So many Demihumans begged for their lives just like that but..." Raphtalia said as the way she said it showed all of the pain and suffering she had endured. "It wasn't enough!" She said as in turn the tears began to poor down her face. But Shiro he knew that whatever happened now was Raphtalia's choice and not theirs to make. She had to be the one to exorcise her demons not them and thus it was with heavy heart that Shiro chose to simply observe and let Raphtalia decide this man's fate in the end. He hoped that whatever choice Raphtalia made would be the one she can live with from here on out.

(TBC)

ESKK: We here we are a new chapter of Heroes of the ARKs. I hope you enjoyed it and will join us for the next chapter. So until then be sure to leave a review for me and as always I will again say ja-ne.