Rise of the Sword and Shield chapter 13: Liberation
Lyall the Werewolf: I think the number 13 hates me. I had to rework this a few times before getting to uploading it. Midway through writing this chapter, I realized it didn't really make sense, and I came dangerously close to repeating the same mistake as before in the previous version of the story, so I need to think more logically to make this chapter work. I had to think of what Asuka would do in this situation, and I think I found the answer. I just hope this one works out the way I wanted it.
A lot has been happening lately, and I haven't had the time or energy to write anything. I have been feeling under the weather due to my allergies, and I hate it!
The downtime wasn't all bad, either. I got my hands on Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice and Elden Ring. Sekiro in particular has given me some ideas that'll help Asuka feel more ninja-like. And yes, both games are as difficult as promised. There are two bosses in Sekiro I haven't beaten, and I haven't made much progress in Elden Ring. I have no idea if or when I'll ever beat them.
I feel I should explain more about Asuka's strengthening method to avoid confusion later down the line. Asuka did not unlock a new strengthening method last chapter. The reason she couldn't master the skill was that Mastery Points count as EXP to a lesser extent. With Motoyasu there, it would have caused leveling problems. That's part of why I decided to change Cooking Recipes into a Passive Skill, so we wouldn't have to worry about leveling or mastering, as Passive Skills don't require mastery to be active.
Before we get started, I would like a take a moment to pay tribute to Billy Kametz, who passed away of cancer last month. He had amazing voice talent and gave such amazing performances when he did, especially as our resident Shield Hero. He will be missed.
With that out of the way, let's back into the story.
(I don't own Senran Kagura or Rising of the Shield Hero)
It was just as Felecia expected. Myne led her and Rino into a trap in the dark alley.
The three were approached by a group of armored men marching out of the shadows. They were clearly criminals. Behind them was a wooden carriage, ready for transport.
"M-Myne, what's going on? Why are these men here?" Rino nervously asked. Instead of a proper answer, Myne shoved Rino to the ground while relieving her of her sword.
"Rino-san!" Felecia cried as she rushed to Rino's side.
"I'm sorry, but I don't think you were meant to be a member of our party, dear." Myne said, "That's why I'm doing you the favor of kicking you out so you won't have to say anything to Motoyasu-sama."
"W-What?! I-I don't understand! If you want me gone, you could have just said so instead of leading us here!" Rino cried, "And where did these guys come from? What's happening?!"
"Isn't it obvious? You're about to be sold off to these gentlemen." Myne answered with dark amusement.
"W-What?" Rino gasped in horror, "Y-You gotta be kidding?! What did I do to deserve this?!"
Felecia had an equally shocked expression, and her disgust with Myne intensified. Now, she was fully aware of the sick crimes Myne committed. Her self-restraint kept her from drawing out her Legendary Sword and decapitating the vile Princess for said crimes. If she did, Felecia would only find more trouble coming her way.
"I have no use for someone who can't get with the program. In the Spear Hero's party, there are rules to follow. And I'm afraid you just couldn't hack it. For those who don't fit in with our rules, I dispose of them by handing them off to the men here. They work for a brothel I'm acquainted with." Myne explained with an arrogant grin.
"So, that's where the victims go. Vento-san mentioned he was serious about keeping Callma Village safe. These guys must be pretty smart to avoid revealing their real profession to the security detail. And maybe Myne-san had something to do with it. She must have called them here ahead of time so she could get rid of Rino-san,"
"D-Don't Motoyasu-sama will let you get away with this!" Rino furiously spat, "When he finds out-"
"Oh, please. Motoyasu-sama has yet to catch on to my activities. And he certainly won't catch on now. I just need to say you left of your own accord, and he'll believe me, like every other time." Myne bragged.
At hearing this, Rino's bravado vanished.
"T-That can't be true…"
"It is. I am Motoyasu-sama's favorite, after all. I'd say that grants me certain rights within the party. And those rights are such things our dear Motoyasu-sama doesn't need to concern himself with." Myne said. She took in the relish of Rino's ever-growing panic.
"No, you have no right whatsoever! But, as long as your father and Motoyasu-kun protect you, you can do whatever you want," thought Felecia.
Rino tried to run, but she was quickly caught and held down by the thugs.
"Please, let me go!"
"Ohohoho! Beg and plead all you want; it won't change a thing!" Myne laughed and watched in amusement at the soon-to-be sex slave's struggle.
Meanwhile, Felecia felt sympathy for Rino. If she and the other victims of this crime conformed to being one of the obedient harem girls for Motoyasu, she could have easily avoided this fate. But, no decent woman could lower their IQ or pride so readily. Felecia also suspected that Rino mentioning her little sister might have had something to do with Myne's decision.
"The lady here is really nice to us. Every so often, we come by to see if there's anyone she doesn't get along with ready for purchase. It helps our business quite a lot." said the thug with a sick grin.
Fearful of her fate, Rino pleaded to Myne, "P-Please don't do this! I-I can still help Motoyasu-sama! I'll even cheer if he wants me to, just please don't-"
"Not gonna happen! The only contribution you'll make at this point is making us a few extra coins. That's unfortunately how much you're worth, but we'll use that money for a good cause." Myne said as she was given a coin purse by one of the men. He was likely the leader of this group of kidnappers. Myne also gave away Rino's sword to him.
"You're pretty cruel, ya know that lady?" the leader chuckled, "But hey, we won't complain. We always treat the newcomers with care."
"No, please!" Rino wailed as she struggled to escape. Her pretty face was covered in fearful tears and snot. The men seemed to be enjoying her reactions with sadistic glee.
As did Myne, who boasted a cruel smirk. It was a fitting display for a sadistic sociopath. It never got old for the vile Princess, watching these miserable common pigs break so easily. Nothing brought Myne greater joy than to see insignificant worms suffer. Save for a select few, there was no way for anyone to defy her or take away her fun.
"Myne-sama, this is inhumane! Please, reconsider this rash decision!" Felecia pleaded. She decided she had seen enough and wanted to at least try to reason with her "mistress" despite knowing it would be futile.
Rino looked somewhat relieved that Felecia was willing to speak out for her. Sadly, Myne was displeased at hearing a servant's objection.
"What did you just say? Did I ask for your opinion, servant?" asked an un-amused Myne.
"Rino-san hasn't done anything wrong to deserve this! You could just let her go peacefully without any violent-Agh!"
Before Felecia could finish, Myne swiftly slapped her across the cheek.
"Don't forget your place! You're lucky to be useful for cooking, cleaning, and entertaining Motoyasu-sama, but only because I deem it so. Overstep your boundaries, and you will regret it. Why else do you think I brought you along this way?"
"To make sure I knew I could suffer the same fate as all the others…"
Felecia didn't say a word. If she went too far out of line, she might risk revealing her identity, and further complications would arise. Silently complying was the only option she could take.
"So, I take it this girl won't be joining our brothel? That's a shame. She's got quite the figure, especially up-top." the leader said while licking his lips. He and his fellows lecherously stare at Felecia. Their eyes were particularly glued to Felecia's large bust.
"These men are the worst…" Felecia thought in disgust. She made a vain attempt to her chest. First, it was that humanoid pig, and now these men. She was starting to wonder if there were any truly decent men in this world.
"If she misbehaves, then she's all yours." Myne said while expectantly looking at her servant, "And I'm sure she knows by now, should she defies me,"
"F-Felecia..." Rino whimpered. She was pleading for help from the false maid.
Unfortunately, there wasn't anything Felecia could do. She needed to stay close to Myne and Motoyasu to prevent them from getting to the Giant Scorpion King. As things stood, it was guaranteed she would miss her opportunity to abscond with the map to its lair.
"I'm sorry…" Felecia reluctantly closed her eyes and turned her back to Rino.
Whatever spirit the blonde swordswoman had was crushed instantly.
She ceased struggling altogether and was dragged away into a carefully hidden carriage. Once their "cargo" was loaded, the men rode off into the night.
"You made a wise choice tonight." Myne said, "Just do as I say, and you won't suffer the same fate she did. Now, let's go."
Myne nonchalantly walked ahead of Felecia, who was silent the entire way back to Vento's estate. However, she stopped for a moment and turned back to Felecia.
"Oh, when you said you had family here, that was a lie, wasn't it?" Myne asked.
Felecia froze in worry, "W-What makes you say that?"
"You obviously needed an excuse for Motoyasu-sama to bring you along, so you made up the story about your family living in this miserable village. That goes for the story about your friends dying during the First Wave, doesn't it?"
Felecia grimaced. She didn't think Myne would figure out the cover story the false maid created. But then again, Myne was a notorious liar herself, so maybe she could catch on to other people's lies.
"If you're wondering how I figured out you were lying, I think the fact that you trusted me up to here was a big red flag. You don't know your way around here, whereas I took the liberty of studying the layout of Callma Village and figured this area was the perfect spot to conduct my business transaction. If you truly lived here, you would know the village like the back of your hand!"
Felecia couldn't deny that. Myne's impromptu decision to leave for Callma Village immediately didn't give Felecia enough time to study up on Callma Village. She barely had any time to herself during the trip over here either. Felecia planned to leave the manor on her own and quietly take the map without anyone noticing, but she was too caught in keeping the disguise going. This was a fatal blunder for the former Shinobi. Of course, this didn't mean the mission was a failure. She could still steal the map and sneak out without detection. All Felecia had to do with continue playing the maid role a little longer. It didn't look like Myne figured out who she really was. Otherwise, the outcome would be much worse.
"Whatever the case, you still have your uses. And now you know what happens when you cross me. But, we can avoid that if you stay the obedient servant you are. Is that understood?"
"Yes, Myne-sama…" Felecia complied while clutching her skirt.
"Well said. Now, let's go. We can't keep Motoyasu-sama waiting."
The two women leave the empty alley. Myne walked ahead of her, and Felecia was trailing behind.
Guilty and anger began to fester in the false maid's mind. She began to ponder if she should have interfered and saved Rino. Should she have rescued Rino while she had the chance? Was it right to sacrifice Rino for the mission? Felecia wasn't sure what was right anymore.
She was aware of one thing, though. The woman in front of her was truly unforgivable. First Naofumi and countless other victims of her cruel schemes, and now Rino… What sense was there in relishing tormenting other people? How could a person so deprived be allowed to exist?
The only other person Felecia knew who would do such malevolent things without a care in the world was the man who sacrificed Homura and the rest of the Hebijo girls to Orochi. He didn't seem to care at all that Hebijo Academy was destroyed, and many of its students were killed or injured during Orochi's rampage. He was so gleeful at what he had done. And for what? The power to control such a monster? Only god knows if that man was still alive.
Felecia wasn't sure of everything, but she knew she would never forgive these individuals for the suffering they caused.
Meanwhile, while she was greatly relieved and satisfied to be rid of another pest at the party, Myne's displeasure at the maid's attitude hasn't been sated. Even after witnessing what she did, the maid seemed to be as resolute as ever. This servant will need taming before she could be of better use. That rebellious nature of hers has got to go. One way or another, that maid and the spiteful Sword Bimbo will learn their place in this world.
Just then, a thought struck the vile Princess, "Why am I thinking of the Sword Bimbo again? Is it because that servant reminds me of her?"
[-Vento's Manor-]
Motoyasu stood outside Vento Manor, waiting for Myne and the others to return. He was still worried about them wandering the streets alone at night.
"Excuse me, Spear Hero-sama." said a female servant of Vento. She wore a simple dark blue maid uniform. She also had short brown hair, large blue eyes, and pale skin. She was young and slender, possibly a teen, like Asuka. "Perhaps you should come inside now. It's getting chilly."
"I can't. I'm waiting here for Myne, Felecia-chan, and Rino-chan to come back."
"If that's the case, I could keep watch for you." the servant girl said.
"No, I can't let an adorable girl like you stand out here in the cold." Motoyasu refuted.
"That is very considerate of you, Spear Hero-sama, but I don't mind in the slightest." the servant assured.
"No way! I'd be a terrible excuse for a gentleman for making a girl wait out here!" Motoyasu said. Then he paused for a moment. The Spear Hero stared at the girl in front of him, "By the way, do I know you? You look familiar."
"I simply have one of those faces. I look like anybody." the servant answered without reservation.
Motoyasu wasn't convinced. He was sure he'd seen this girl before. It was the same feeling he had with Felecia. He couldn't place either of them, but he couldn't help thinking he met these two girls prior.
"I hope my employee isn't causing you trouble, Spear Hero-sama," said Vento as he appeared outside.
"Oh no, I just got a weird feeling that I've met her before," Motoyasu replied.
"Are you sure? It must be your imagination," Vento suggested.
"Really? I can't be imagining this… first Felecia-chan, and now this girl?"
"Anyway, if you're still worried about Princess Malty and the others, I already told you this town was safe. I'm a stickler for that kind of thing," Vento assured.
"No offense, but I don't want to take that chance. If they don't come back soon, I'll go look for them," said Motoyasu.
"Have it your way." sighed Vento. He heard the Spear Hero was stubborn when it came to women, especially to the ones in his party. Vento saw no point in arguing any further.
"Motoyasu-sama!" called out a familiar voice.
Motoyasu turned to see Myne and Felecia approaching the manor.
"Myne, Felecia-chan!" Motoyasu waved and ran up to them.
"I trust you won't mention anything about what happened earlier, right?" Myne whispered to the quiet Felecia.
"Yes…" Felecia stoically answered.
Immediately after, Myne ran up to Motoyasu and hugged him tightly, "We've returned safely, Motoyasu-sama!"
"I'm glad you're both back, but where's Rino-chan?" Motoyasu asked as he hugged her back.
"Regrettably, the newbie decided she wasn't fit to be among our ranks," Myne informed.
"So, she left? Just like the others?" groaned Motoyasu, "What is this? Why do new girls come and go just like that?"
"I'm sorry, but you're simply too good for them, Motoyasu-sama. It's of little wonder they feel inadequate when around you." Myne said as she gingerly held the Spear Hero's hand.
Felecia kept her stoic expression, but the bile from hearing Myne's lie made her want to vomit once again.
"But, they don't have to be so self-conscious. I'm more than enough to love and protect them, especially you, Myne!" Motoyasu declared.
"Indeed you are! That's why you're my Hero, Motoyasu-sama!" Myne squealed and hugged the ever-gullible Motoyasu again. He was just the right kind of stupid for her to manipulate, just like any other man she came across.
"Oh, Myne, you're so cute!"
"Yeah, if only that were really the case…" Felecia thought. No matter how many times she saw them flirting, the same feeling of disgust was always there.
"Felecia-chan, what's wrong?" asked Motoyasu as he released Myne and stepped in front of her. "You've been awfully quiet? Did things not go well with your family?"
"Um…"
"It turns her family was out of town. That's why she's depressed," said Myne.
"Aw, is that true, Felecia?" Motoyasu asked with sympathy and concern.
Felecia quickly glanced at Myne, who gave her a demanding scowl. Myne obviously didn't want Felecia to tell the truth.
Felecia simply nodded in confirmation.
"Tonight's pretty crappy for us, huh?" Motoyasu sighed, "Well, don't worry about it. I'm sure they'll be back soon. I'm sure that Vento guy will let you stay the night."
Felecia was truly amazed by the ignorance of this man. And it wasn't in a good way. How could he be this oblivious to the tension in the air? Was he not going to give Rino a second thought? He must be used to this by now if that were the case. Motoyasu had taken the trust of his party for granted, and those around him paid for it without him ever realizing it. Felecia may have hated the idea of Heroism in this world, but even she figured no Hero should ever be this stupid.
It wasn't as though she didn't completely understand him. She could see that he cared for his comrades, albeit misguided. Maybe, Felecia would have seen him as a friend and trusted ally if things were different. It was truly a shame he chose the wrong allies in this case.
"Let's not stand out here anymore. We should go to bed as quickly as possible." Myne suggested.
"Yeah. I'm gonna need all my energy for the Giant Scorpion King." nodded Motoyasu. He turned to Felecia, "Ready for bed Felecia-chan? Don't be afraid to come to me if you're feeling lonely."
"Oh, Motoyasu-sama, you're incorrigible!" Myne complained as she pinched his cheek in jealousy.
"O-Ow, sorry Myne!" Motoyasu chuckled like he was having a good time, "Will you forgive me if I kill the Giant Scorpion King in style!"
"Of course, I will! You'll forever be the coolest Hero in my eyes!" Myne said as she hugged the gullible Spear Hero with sickening affection. He wore a goofy grin as he felt Myne's warm body press against his.
Felecia could only watch in disgust and disappointment.
Naturally, this was all he cared about; getting any attractive girl he could find and enjoying himself without worry. She knew it a long time ago, but it was truly disappointing for Felecia. A Hero whose goals were self-serving, who was blind to the suffering of those closest to him. He truly knew nothing, and Myne will continue to feed him nothing.
Myne and Motoyasu just might deserve each other for their horrible qualities. And Felecia would rather not see any more of it tonight.
"You know what… screw it!" Felecia thought, "I'm sorry, I just remembered something I needed to do in town. I'll be back shortly!"
"Huh? This late?"
Felecia didn't bother answering as she turned around and dashed out of the gate, ignoring a surprised Motoyasu and Myne all the while.
"Felecia-chan, where are you going?!"
"Hey, servant, I didn't say you could just leave abruptly! Get back here!"
The two gave chase immediately after. Motoyasu didn't want to lose another member of the group, while Myne didn't want to lose her personal chef.
Meanwhile, Vento was still watching from a distance.
"Well, this got interesting," Vento smirked. He turned to his maidservant, but she disappeared before anyone noticed. He wasn't surprised at all. He knew from the start that she wasn't one of his employees.
"I suppose I should go back into the office. I still have some paperwork to finish." Vento said, before pondering something else, "I should also see how the little one is doing. She did want to meet a Cardinal Hero today."
[-Meanwhile-]
Motoyasu and Myne continued to chase Felecia until she ducked into a dark alley.
"Felecia-chan, don't go in there! Bad things happen to cute girls in dark alleys!" Motoyasu cried.
"Why does this feel familiar?" Myne pondered. She remembered that horrible prank from before the Sword Bimbo left the guild. The way she ducked into that alley and ran circles around her and the others for nearly a half-hour was a sore spot for the spoiled Princess. Myne swore she would get that brat back for it one day. Making her quit the guild was satisfying, but it would be better to make sure she suffered once Myne made that miserable Sword Bimbo into a slave. That was why she wanted Motoyasu to win the duel.
The two ventured into the alley the maid entered, only to find that she too had vanished. Not so much as a sound was made. It was like she completely disappeared into the shadows.
"Huh? Where'd she go? Felecia-chan?!" Motoyasu called out. No answer had come. She was truly gone. The Spear Hero wondered what made Felecia decide to leave. Did he do something to upset her? If so, what could he do to make it up to her?
"This sucks… not one, but two girls suddenly leave today? And I did everything I could to make them feel like part of the group…" Motoyasu sighed, "Felecia-chan was especially cute. She reminded me of Asuka-chan. That cute innocent face and those boobs were so identical that they could almost be the same person! Why did they have to go suddenly?!" Motoyasu whined. He was mad at himself for not realizing how similar Felecia and Asuka were in looks sooner. And now, he may never win them over.
While Motoyasu was bemoaning his luck, Myne stood quietly with a dumbstruck expression on her face.
A puzzle was forming into completion in her head after what Motoyasu had just said. When the maid suddenly left and disappeared in this empty alley just like the Sword Bimbo over a week ago, it all seemed to click. The reason why Myne didn't like that maid made sense now. The maid's defiant attitude, her sudden disappearing act, and worst of all, those absurd breasts. They all pointed to the most detestable person ever.
And this was the second time Myne made a fool by that wretch.
"SWORD BIMBOOOOOOO!"
"M-Myne…?"
Meanwhile, up above them, a certain blouse and skirt were left hanging on the clotheslines.
[-Rooftops-]
Having just ditched her Felecia disguise, Asuka, now fully dressed in her adventuring attire, made a mad dash across the rooftops, far from where Motoyasu and Myne were.
"Good thing Grandpa taught me how to quick-change clothes in case I didn't have my Ninja Scroll." Asuka thought. The specifics of how this technique works need no explanation.
She could hear Myne screaming far away. It was like music to the Sword Hero's ears.
Now that the cat was out of the bag, the Felecia disguise wouldn't work on them anymore. It didn't matter, for the Sword Hero would never again don the Felecia disguise.
Her breasts bounced freely against the wind as a symbolic way of freedom from her strenuous bonds. It would be an understatement to say that pretending to be the Spear Hero's biggest fan and Princess Malty's faithful servant was stifling. The sweet feeling of freedom was most welcome after what felt like an eternity. No longer would she be forced to up with endless flirting, condescending bullying, and excessive orders.
As of right now, she was headed somewhere specific. The place where Rino was kidnapped. Once she found it, she dropped to the ground floor and started sniffing the air.
This activated Enhanced Scent Detection. She memorized the pungent aroma of intoxicating perfume and Rino's scent among them.
"I've got the scent. Now, I just need to figure out where they are." Asuka said to herself. She turned to another individual in the shadows, "Do you have any ideas?"
The shadowy figure dressed in black emerged in a kneeling posture. They saw no reason to hide since the Sword Hero was aware of their presence.
The figure was dressed head to toe in black, including a black mask that concealed their face. But, thanks to Enhanced Scent Detection memorizing the figure's scent, Asuka knew who this shadowy person was. It also helped that this person was with Vento just moments ago.
"My compatriots and I have been monitoring the kidnappers. My comrades informed me that they were on the outskirts south of the village and are nearing the swamp area. Now that you have their scent, tracking them shouldn't be a problem," the Shadow answered.
"That's good to hear. Thanks for the info." Asuka nodded, "By the way, I was surprised to see you next to Vento-san, Lora-san."
"And I dare say, I'm surprised you caught onto me earlier than that. I sometimes had to try harder to maintain my cover from you." the Shadow said as she removed her mask. She revealed her face, confirming that it was indeed Lora, "Tell me, were you a Shadow like myself in your world?"
"You could say that." Asuka nodded, "Since I was a child, I've been training in this sort of thing, so I'm used to it."
"I see. And I dare say I commend you on your resilience until now, Asuka-sama. You put on a very convincing act with your disguise for the Spear Hero and Princess Malty."
"Thanks for the compliment because I won't be pretending to be Motoyasu-kun's fan and Myne-san's servant again." Asuka said with a dead-serious expression, "Besides, I don't think the disguise will work anymore, anyway,"
"That is to be expected since you ran away from them so brazenly, I dare say. Are you certain this is the best course of action?" asked Lora, "I was under the impression that you were aiming to steal the map to the Giant Scorpion King's lair. Tonight is a prime opportunity, yet you decide to track down and rescue your friend?"
"I know… it's dumb, but I made up my mind. I just can't sacrifice Rino-san for my own goals. I especially don't want a repeat of what happened to Naofumi-kun. I'm going to save her, no matter what!"
"You have a noble spirit, Sword Hero-sama. But, what if the Spear Hero gets to the Giant Scorpion King while you're wasting time on an impromptu rescue mission?" Lora asked, "It could be morning by the time you succeed in saving her, and the Spear Hero's party would have gone to the swamps where that monster dwells,"
Asuka immediately assumed the Shadow knew she was gathering info about the Giant Scorpion King. After all, she was following the Sword Hero for quite some time since her departure from the Adventurer's Guild.
"I'll think of something." Asuka answered, "After I'm done rescuing Rino-san, I could still follow Motoyasu-kun and his party and find a way of derailing their search. And if it doesn't work out, I'll try thinking of a countermeasure to whatever paralysis attack Motoyasu-kun throws my way in the duel. And it's not like I can't dodge it either."
"Assuming your post-traumatic stress disorder doesn't get in the way."
Asuka grimaced upon hearing that, "So, you know about that too. I should have figured PTSD existed here as well."
"I apologize for my forwardness, but the nightmares and other symptoms you've had seem to suggest it." Lora bowed apologetically.
"It's okay. The nightmares and flashbacks haven't been bothering me as of late. I should be fine." Asuka assured.
"I still strongly advise not pushing yourself. It may lead to disastrous results." Lora said, "I won't be taking up any more of your time. If you don't hurry, you'll miss your chance to save her. Before I leave you, allow me to give you one last piece of information. The area south of here houses the swamp region where the Giant Scorpion King dwells. The kidnappers must be using a shortcut that can be found near the swamp entrance to escape the vicinity."
"That means I need to catch them before they find it. In which case, I need to get going! Asuka said, "We'll talk later, Lora-san! Bye and thanks again!" Asuka sprinted off in the last seen direction of the carriage Rino was dragged into, leaving the shadow behind. She was determined to succeed in saving the victim of Myne's cruelty this time.
"Farewell, Asuka-sama," Lora said as Asuka disappeared from sight. The Shadow knew she could have told Asuka that she and the other Shadows under their employer's orders would rescue any victims of Princess Malty's crimes, including Rino. But, Asuka was determined to do right by Rino, so Lora decided it would be best to do as she wanted for now.
She also realized it might be beneficial to work together with the Sword Hero in the future. It would certainly make her employer happy. Said employer was unhappy about Lora's last report on the recent events of Melromarc. It was especially bad with King Aultcray and Princess Malty's machinations toward the Shield Hero. Knowing that Asuka could be a potential ally would be a welcome change. That was why she needed to follow close behind should anything happen to her.
[-South of Callma Village-]
On the southern outskirts of Callma Village, the carriage carrying Rino and the men who kidnapped her continued its tread on-route to their home destination.
Shackled down, Rino wept in misery. She still couldn't understand why this had to happen to her. All she wanted was to fight alongside Motoyasu or any of the Cardinal Heroes really. When Motoyasu offered to let her join, she was thrilled. She still remembered it like it was yesterday.
[-Flashback: A couple of days after Asuka's Disappearance-]
"Hey there!" a handsome stranger called to Rino. He casually approached her, wearing a charming smile. "You're free, aren't you? Wanna go on a date with me?"
"Huh? Me? I don't know…" Rino was a little surprised to be hit on so brazenly. She had been asked out before by other men, but more subtly. This young and handsome stranger was different. He was very direct and confident. One thing that caught her attention was the oddly designed spear he was carrying.
She heard the Four Cardinal Heroes were summoned to Melromarc two weeks ago. Could this man be one of them? There was only one way to find out for sure.
"T-That spear! Are you the Spear Hero?" Rino asked excitedly.
"That's right! Spear Hero, Motoyasu Kitamura, at your service!" Motoyasu declared, striking a cool pose with his spear.
"Oh wow! So cool!" Rino cheered with sparkles in her eyes. She never thought one of the Cardinal Heroes would approach her like this. He was even flirting with her too. This had to be the best day of her life.
"You're cute! Wanna join my party?"
"Y-Yes, I'd love to! I've always wanted to join a Cardinal Hero's party! My name's Rino, and it's an honor to meet you, Spear Hero-sama!"
"Likewise, Rino-chan! And just call me Motoyasu from now on." Motoyasu grinned.
"Yay!" Rino squealed happily as her dream came true. Seconds later, she was shoved aside by another girl, this one sporting red hair, and she was very beautiful.
"Motoyasu-sama, I have something I need to discuss with you," she said, ignoring Rino.
"U-Um…"
"What do you want?" the redhead spat, "Motoyasu-sama is busy, and doesn't have time to waste on a peasant like you!"
"Calm down, Myne. She's a new party member, so you and the others have to play nice." Motoyasu said as he helped her up.
"Again? Motoyasu-sama, you're incorrigible!" complained another girl. She was wearing a fur coat.
"How many is that now?" muttered a third, this one wearing a blue outfit and seemed reasonably smart.
"I-Is this the Spear Hero's party…?" Rino wondered to herself. She was surprised to see how unpleasant most of them were despite their beauty. Even more surprising was that it was all female, with no men in sight.
"Girls, girls! Be nice!" Motoyasu lightly scolded. He turned to the nervous Rino with an encouraging smile, "Don't be shy, Rino-chan. Everyone here is nice, right girls?"
"Yes, Motoyasu-sama!" Myne and the other girls cheerily said in unison. This didn't ease Rino's growing discomfort.
"M-My name is Rino. It's nice to meet everyone…" Rino wasn't sure how to take this. She heard that Spear Hero only invited women to his party, but she thought it was just weird rumors. It would appear that wasn't the case here.
"Motoyasu-sama's journey is going to be long and arduous. Are you sure you can keep up?" asked the girl in blue.
"Y-Yes, I'll do my best!" Rino said with determination.
"Awesome, but you don't need to strain yourself. Cute girls like you don't like fighting and getting dirty."
"Wha…?" Rino thought Motoyasu was probably joking about girls not liking getting dirty. Sure, she didn't like dirt as much as the next girl, but she felt a little annoyed by such a comment. She was a small-time adventurer, so camping out in the dirt if necessary wasn't a big deal to her.
"So, Myne, you said you wanted to talk?" Motoyasu quickly asked Myne, who was happy to answer his questions.
"Of course, Motoyasu-sama! Remember that monster I've been researching? I've finally found it, and made arrangements to travel to its location!" Myne smiled. She had a pleasant smile on her face, but her eyes narrowed at Rino, which caused the blond to flinch. Motoyasu didn't seem to notice.
Rino thought the redheaded woman looked familiar but wasn't sure where to place her.
Meanwhile, the woman in blue rolled her eyes, as if knowing what kind of antics were ahead. She also looked annoyed when Myne said she made the travel arrangements.
"Wait, you know that one with the paralyzing effect? I thought we talked about this Myne. I don't wanna hurt Asuka-chan with it!"
"It's a necessary precaution! I have every confidence in your skills and prowess in battle, but if that Sword Hero is even the tiniest bit faster in the duel…"
"Duel…?" Rino mumbled. "Wait, does she mean that duel between the Spear and Sword Heroes? The one concerning the Shield Hero?"
She heard about the trial for the Shield Hero and how he betrayed and attempted to abuse his comrades, but she never took it at face value and didn't know what it was about. From what she understood, the Cardinal Heroes weren't getting along very well. But they were just starting their adventures and were supposed to work together. So why would they bicker at a time like this when the next Wave was approaching?
"Look, I appreciate the effort you put into finding that monster so I can potentially get that skill, but…"
"Motoyasu-sama, have you forgotten that the Sword Hero was drugged by that dastardly Shield Hero? You have to win in order to free her from the effects making her loyal to him!"
"Of course, I haven't! And I also plan to make Naofumi pay for what he did to you and Asuka-chan!"
"That's the spirit, my brave Hero! Do whatever it takes to protect us! And yes, even the Sword Hero." Myne muttered the last bit.
"Okay, if you insist on it, I'll fight that monster and get its skill! But, I'll only use it as a last resort." Motoyasu nodded.
"Motoyasu-sama, you're the best!" Myne hugged the Spear Hero eagerly upon hearing this. The all-female party members besides Rino crowd around him.
"Good luck, Motoyasu-sama! We're rooting for you, no matter what!" said Lesty.
"Don't hold back on her! Give it your all!" Elena cheered, albeit somewhat half-heartedly.
Meanwhile, Rino stood silently as she watched Motoyasu interact with his party. She wasn't sure how to take this. Were adventuring parties always this lively? No, this was unnaturally lively, and it was baffling, to say the least. She began to wonder what she got herself into.
[-Flashback End-]
That was how she met Motoyasu, and being with the Spear Hero's party was the fun experience she hoped for. If only Rino wasn't so trusting of Motoyasu and Myne. Maybe she could have had second thoughts about the party sooner.
The upside to being in the Spear Hero's party this long was meeting Felecia. It had been a while since Rino was treated kindly by anyone. Motoyasu tended to pass off issues in the party as a thing that'll work out while the other girls bullied her for not understanding how the party functioned. Worse than that, he never allowed her t fight. He didn't treat her like a valued ally. Instead, Rino was simply a trophy to him. It was embarrassing not to realize this sooner.
When Felecia came, and they got to know each other, it was a welcome breath of fresh air for Rino. Despite becoming friends, Felecia couldn't stand up for Rino as she was getting sold off.
Granted, what could Felecia do in that situation? She was a maid, not a fighter. There was nothing she could do. It still hurt, being betrayed. Myne was one thing since her betrayal was intentionally malicious, and thus Rino had every right to be angry and hate her, but Rino found she couldn't bring herself to hate Felecia.
"Hey, so…" one of the men in the carriage spoke. He sat beside Rino while leering at her. "Is it okay if I have a little fun with our girl?"
Rino flinched at hearing this.
"Hey now, we're still on the road. Do you really think we have the time to be having fun here?"
"Yeah, at least wait til we get back to the brothel!"
Rino found some relief when the others scolded their mate.
"Hey, even if we take that shortcut through the swamp, it'll still take us days to get back to the brothel! I've been holding back for so long, too…" the first kidnapper complained.
"Hm… good point. I think we're all a little backed up." the second kidnapper said.
"Still, it's probably not a good idea to stop here and have our way with our hire just yet. You heard the rumors about the monster roaming this place, right?" asked the third kidnapper.
"You mean the First Wave's Boss? There's no way that thing is close by. We're nearing the edge of the swamp. That's where our shortcut is. Even if it was in the swamp, it wouldn't notice us because the monster's in further deep." the second answered.
"So, it's okay to do our business?" the first asked with a wicked grin.
"Might as well make it quick."
"N-No!" Rino broke out in a cold sweat as she realized. One of them crept over to her and felt up her leg. Vile damning thoughts welled up in her mind as she could only imagine the horrors awaiting her after this.
"Relax, honey! I'll treat you nice and right."
Tears of fear and pain swell in her eyes as she laments, "Why me…? What did I do to deserve this…?"
One of the vile men said to the driver.
"Hey, we're about to have fun for a while, so stop the cart!"
He halted the horses and stopped the carriage as instructed. He only did so on the promise he'd get to join in.
However, just as he stepped off the driver's seat, he heard the horses freaking out.
"Huh? What's wrong?" the driver asked as he immediately went over to check on them.
The horses continued to make loud, neighing noises. They sounded distressed. These horses were trained to maintain their composure even in the face of the smallest monster.
The driver followed the horses' eyesight. Something ahead of them must have spooked them. Whatever it was, it was probably bigger than the average monster.
"Hey, what's taking so long? Hurry up and get in it!" yelled one of his comrades.
Despite all her struggling to resist, they already had Rino halfway stripped of her clothes.
"Why is so noisy out there? Are the horses spooked by something?"
The driver hadn't answered. He barely registered their voices over the whinnying of the horses and another distinct noise coming from the thick bushes. The new sound was a loud and vicious guttural growl. It sounded vaguely canine.
"GRRRRGRRRRGRRRR…!" the growl echoed like there were three voices.
In the dark shadows of the bush, the driver could make out six glowing red lights. He couldn't see anything for a moment, but something began to move in the dark, as indicated by the lights. Upon closer observation, the driver realized that those glowing red lights were moving in pairs of two, like eyes.
"Oh god…" the driver uttered. He had just heard about his comrades talking about that thing, and it was right here this whole time.
Lyall the Werewolf: And we'll stop here for now. I apologize for the slow pace this story is currently going, but I promise, after this and the next chapter, it's on to the Second Wave. The big question is, can Asuka actually defeat Cerberus? We'll find out.