Chapter 5: Quiet Rage
A/N: A very long delay, mostly writers block as I struggle to get Raphtalia and Chise's perspective on how I want them to go forward. It didn't happen so I just had to write around it for the time being and I want these chapters to be longer which also eats up more time. Sorry for the overdue chapter but here is 5.
Raphtalia helped Chise down the stairs, following her subsequent startling wake up which the red haired teen explained was in part due to Elias talking about personal information about her. Explaining that perhaps a King Oberon had placed a little spell on her in order to get the two of them to know when they were going to start having babies and the more open they got with each other the faster they could expect wonderful children that he and his people could fawn over.
It was a tad bit annoying but Chise did know when Elias was explaining personal things and gave her hope that he was out there and fine. The would be saint explained that while she wasn't thrilled that Elias was sharing intimate secrets with someone it did fill her with relief to know that he was alive and doing well guessing that he probably had to be in good spirits to talk about sex with someone.
The demi human girl had a growing feeling inside of her that made her feel even more indebted to Chise than Master Naofumi. Though it was true that Naofumi was the reason she was probably still alive, it didn't change the feelings twisting in her gut about the red haired teen.
Even touching her as she was almost electric and addictive. While Chise had recovered Raphtalia had remained by her side, holding onto her hand the entire time. It hadn't gone over the best with the other nuns but considering they had all fought to protect the struggling Saint who had begun throwing up blood they didn't have the necessary time to argue biblical text.
But Raphtalia knew it now, more than ever that she was compelled to remain close to Chise. She was drawn to her and nothing could make her pull away for too long. The demi Human couldn't simply ignore the truth that was sitting out there in the open.
Even leaving just for a minute to grab something or use the bathroom she would immediately feel loss and anxious, it was on par to her friends and family had been sold into slavery. She'd known Chise a week and being apart from her for a few minutes was almost heartbreaking and it shouldn't be.
'I don't know if it's just me though, but I wonder if all of these holy people are afflicted by this same compulsion?' Her mind could wonder as to what the real answer was. The Inn which had been mostly donated to the three heroes church became silent as soon as the Holy Mother was brought into the picture.
The innkeeper and his wife both grew silent as they watched Chise walk down the wooden stairs. A heavy white night gown covering her, one of many offerings given up by the townsfolk, including coin, and medicine as they rolled through town because…
"Oh, gracious Saint!" It was the ever devoted Lady Adalee who rushed forwards to take up Chise's other free hand as she neared the bottom railing.
"It's okay. I'm fine, just a little tired." Chise tried to say but she was weak too, too weak to just tell her off.
Chise's heavy eyes could see that her health bar was still low, her stamina was low and her magic was… well full. She could also see status effects upon her, 'Weakened, slowed, vitality down.' Just to name a few. There was the small benefit of having a magical display be a personal doctor at times.
"After slaying so many abominations outside the town it's alright to be tired, but you must gather your strength so we can begin our journey again." The head Nun helped guide Chise, even with the demi human still holding onto her other arm to a table in the center. There was already a fresh meal prepared for her. Nothing too fancy but several eggs over easy, fresh bread, and cut up sausages… at least Chise thought they were anyway. The gathering of her caravan did not immediately smother her which she was expecting.
Immediately Chise felt the awkwardness of the entire room playing out again, everyone staring at her, old memories from back at school. The whispers of those around her, it might not have been to bully her but it was still suffocating.
A hand touched her own, drawing the teen back from her self imposed isolation in her own mind. "Let's get some food down Chise." The gentle words of Raphtalia were there, and her other hand offered a fork out for the redhead.
There was a brief uneasy quiet that followed but as Chise slowly poked into her food the Inn's dining area returned to a relatively normal location.
'They said that frail girl killed the most monster's out there with a single blow.' One voice spoke to another, although hushed in tone the ears of a certain raccoon girl did not miss them. 'That girl? I know she's supposed to be some holy figure but she could barely walk down the steps without help. How is she supposed to be some great divine figure?'
'While I'm all for believing in God and all, you can't expect me to believe that, the amount of monsters? We've never seen numbers like that and now you want to tell me some girl barely sixteen years old killed almost a thousand of them?'
'You've seen the escort, you've heard the rumors haven't you?'
'What rumors?'
'All monster's follow the Saint, that includes… you know.'
'You can't be serious!?'
'Always trouble their kind, sullying this very place with her presence, it's practically disgusting.'
A heavy hand slammed down on the table beside Chise as Raphtalia's fists clenched. It startled almost all of those in attendance as she abruptly stood up. "Excuse me Chise." She said walking straight out of the inn and giving herself a moment to collect herself.
The outside was a relief for the demi human, escaping the confines of ignorant humans that never even think beyond what is in front of their nose. Take a look and make a determination. Just like with her captivity and slavery she was discarded simply by what she was, a target for nothing but everyone else, if there was a problem she was the cause of it.
Humans had never been her biggest fans and nor was she one of theirs. It always seemed to be that humans were pushing her towards hating them. 'First they lourd themselves over Chise like she belongs to them at all. She wants nothing to do with them!'
Finding an unoccupied bench, Raphtalia just sat down trying to push down her animosity but struggled to keep herself from going back and showing those lousy jerks that she wasn't the problem.
Covering her face the raccoon girl took in some deep breaths and focused on her own breathing. She saw Naofumi do it when he had gotten overly stressed and it seemed to work pretty well for him. It was a good chance to emulate him.
All remained quiet until a gentle hand touched her shoulder. The presence alone told Raphtalia just who it was. Taking one hand back she grasped the fingers of the Saint.
The touch calming and soothing immediately. "I know how it is." Chise spoke softly. Moving to take a seat beside her.
"These people don't deserve someone like you Chise. You should be a place where everyone is welcoming to all and would treat you like you deserve."
The redhead just smiled. "It hurts Raphtalia, but you can't let others try and dictate everything about you. My entire family abandoned me, I know how it is when no one wants you. But there's someone out there, we just have to keep working through this. I trust that Elias and I will find our way to one another." They remained quiet for several minutes, "I don't know how the caravan is planning on continuing forward but how about me and you practice some magic."
It was something to help keep her mind off their current predicament.
[***]
"Filo, stop trying to peck at Elias." The oversized bird was doing its best to try and catch Elias's shadowy form on the ground. 'It's more like a dog or a cat with a laser pointer.' The large beak tried to hit Elias's incorporeal form as he was trying to saddle her up for the ride.
"Ghnn." The bird seemed to almost grunt in annoyance as it's large beak poked and tapped at the strange thing. Yet no matter what it did nothing seemed to really occur which only frustrated it and made it want to keep trying harder to catch it.
"I am surprised that this creature grew so fast, in less than a day it's reached a mature state." The mage was surprised by the remarkable growth spurt. "And you say it's due to you being a Hero that they rapidly age? That is-'' His voice stopped as the large bird claw slapped at his red eyes. "Are you really going to continue this? You have yet to make any progress and all you're doing is annoying me, you large chicken."
"Gah, Gah!" The bird's feet scratched at the ground attempting to claw at him causing the shadow to flip around Naofumi's front and Filo to keep trying to chase after it.
"Hey, stop moving." Nafumi said, grabbing it by the bridle and pulling it back. Despite it's protests. With a frustrated grunt Naofumi grabbed a piece of bread from his front pocket. "Filo!" Treating her more like a dog.
"Guwahh!" The large bird's eyes lit up at the sight of food and forgot all about the black shadow. Opening its mouth as Naofumi tossed a small piece into its large beak.
"Perhaps you can't be a shadow around her." He said tossing another piece as he finished tying up the saddle to her back.
"SO...It would seem." The black mass rose up and formed into his refined form, not bothering to waste his magic as the two of them were in the stables owned by the slaver who had more to gain with Naofumi as an ally than as a foe. "A unique creature." Reaching up he touched the feather's but the large head swung back around to glare at Elias. "Be watchful of your agression my feathered companion." His red eyes burning a little more brightly, "Keep up this attitude and I'll turn you into salamander food." The low rumble of his voice was no idle threat.
"Guuh!" The large Filoali wanted to repost but the intense look kept her subdued… for now.
"Better." Turning his attention back to Naofumi he looked at the Hero who finished adjusting the stirrups. "What is your plan going forward, perhaps you have some leads as to where my Chise is being kept? I've already heard that she departed from the main capital some time ago but no one knows to exactly where."
For once there was some good news that the Shield Hero had to share, "Well that information was sold to me by my friend here." Gesturing back towards the direction of the slaver. "He told me where the Holy Mother was traveling, and she had Raphtalia with her as well." He actually cracked a smile, "We can take care of both of our problems at once if they stick to the path they were heading on."
'She's not too far and Elias can get his… woman? Wife? Bride? Back too so we can knock out all of our problems together and maybe this mage can find a way back home for us if it's possible.' Yet Naofumi hadn't really thought too much further about bringing Raphtalia back with him, sure it sounded appealing but he was still worried.
Yet as the Hero's eyes looked over the bone faced magus he did feel some comfort at the problem. If people like him lived on Earth they surely it would be possible for someone like Raphtalia to live there as well.
"Well then," The mage pulled him his hood. "Perhaps we should consider following them with haste?"
"Yeah I agree," throwing his foot into the stirrup he pulled himself up and into the saddle on the back of Filo. "Let's get ourselves moving then Elias."
Pulling himself up and behind the saddle of Naofumi and ignoring the large bird's visual glare Elias settled himself into a suitable position and without much more than a snap of his reins Naofumi took off from the stables the party all together as the new addition and mount Filo helped the group make up for a sluggish foot slogging pace as the large bird broke out into a decent jaunt. Most people were unable to view the face of the passenger riding behind the Shield Hero as the group departed from the front gates.
[***]
"I see this isn't good news at all then." A noble woman was being dressed in front of a mirror, several handmaids were gathered around her pinning her dress and jewels as were appropriate for her formal attire. Her arms were stretched out on both sides as she looked straight ahead into the mirror. Several of her close and trusted supporters were kneeling in a line behind her in the mirror. A beautiful woman with light purple hair and faint pink lipstick already adorning her lips, though one might make the mistake of thinking of her as a trophy. Her eyes were hardened and her figure was shaped through her role. A decorative crown was placed next to the mirror on a table, but further from there was an ornate set of half plate armor. The seal of Melramarc was engraved on the lower part of the chestplate. While pristine it did not exist without small imperfections and glints in the metal. It was not ceremonial, though more so a practical piece of armor.
"No my lady, the Shield Hero has a foreign being working with him, I dare say that he is an incredibly powerful magical caster but also somehow part monster as well given by his appearance and demeanor." The woman's face was concealed by a gray mask leaving all but the lower part of her nose and mouth exposed.
"Our trailing of them has given little to this person's true identity or intent but we highly suspect that this person is not of this world and mostly likely had been summoned to this country with help of the Three Hero's Church."
This caused the woman to stop. "My servants… leave me for the moment." Her words caused all three to tuck their heads and without even the hint of reservation departed the room hurriedly but not in a manner to rush or seem undignified.
Turning back around fully though half dressed she looked at the three kneeling figures behind her. "Explain."
"He appeared in the presence of the Shield Hero after he was sent to kill the devil that had been apparently imprisoned in the lower part of the cathedral, though we have no way of confirming that since the last shadow that was dispatched never returned after attempting to gather information. But whatever it is, I dare say… It is not human. It moves and roils in the shadows of the SHield Hero but can manifest in a physical form. But it is not a simple monster, it talks, it thinks, it moves with purpose. There is logic to everything it does, but most terrible is that it is a supremely powerful mage and dark magic at that."
The noble took in a full breath, "So the church has helped to release something just as terrifying onto this world as the wave's of catastrophe... " She brought her fingers to her brow. "I should've dealt with that cult long ago but it provided aid, brought joy to the people and served as a pillar for many communities. I guess I must've only thought that those working in the name of God would be led astray so easily." Removing her fingers she then looked to address those gathered. "What of the Church's unsanctioned summoned Hero? What can you say of Her?"
A second cloaked figure spoke, kneeling beside the others. " She is not a threat to nobility, but those who do see her are enamored by her, she has set about healing countless injured and sick and to the masses there is nothing but praise for her. The arrival of the Church's saint has solidified them in the eyes of many, their believers are more fantastical and are able to expand their faith to surrounding cities and rural areas with ease. 'Fear not the fiery tresses for the savior of Heaven has come, the three heroes are pillars to God's will and she is the will of God made manifest. Bring forth your offerings, give up what you know to God, for the Holy Mother walks this world and shall be salvation for all.' It is the spoken word of the three heroes fanatics. They are pushing this young maiden into their symbol and the Pope has some part to play in the growing calls for their Church to become the only Religion that should exist within Melramarc." There was a short pause as the woman kneeling pulled out a piece of paper. "They have also taken her from the capital with a large escort, however they were attacked by a swarm of monsters that is almost unprecedented."
Their head's didn't look up towards their noblewoman's face. "The Holy Mother, or the name she wishes to go by as Chise is also very powerful, her magic killed more than half of the monsters that attacked her in one swift blow… however, her body is frail and in doing so caused her collapse. We're not sure as to what caused it but she began to throw up blood and was rescued at the last moment by a cavalry patrol that was in the area. That is all that we have for the time being in regards to them."
"It is disappointing to hear this news, it also distresses me that there is so little that I can do from here to undo the damage the church is causing my country. But I thank you for your dutiful service, but I must ask if there is more information on the one that is currently traveling with Sir Shield Hero?"
"I will offer as much as I can my Queen but I can not promise if it will aid you in discovering information related to its motives. The alliance, or truce between Naofumi and the shadow that travels with him are working to recover their compatriots. The Shield Hero is seeking the Demi Human removed from his service by King Aultcray," The Queen's hands tightened as she heard those words. "She was sent to the church to be purified and found herself in the Church's care and directly alongside their patron saint by fortune alone. No doubt the two of them will be hunting down the Holy Mother and seek to arrive at a location to collect them, though we do not know what true motives drives the demon of sorts towards its goal or what might happen should he be united with her."
"Even more troubling, I can not even give the correct answer without more information, but considering his co-operation with the Shield Hero I can not paint him as a foe completely, but neither can I deny that he might be working to subvert the Hero in order to get what he wishes, whatever that might be." The Queen turned her head back towards the mirror. "I need more information."
THe three turned their heads towards one another. "There is little else to say, while it seems that the Shield Hero's new partner is merely that, your first born did have a private meeting with him in the palace but do your daughter's presence and personal attendants we were unable to know the full contents of their conversation but it appears that she is looking to bring him into her own court as an ally."
'That girl, I should've put my foot down on her behavior and not let her become such a spoiled child.' As a Queen she didn't vocalize her displeasure, but it was widely known as fact, considering that she'd removed her daughter from her position to become the next in line to the throne was more than evidence enough. But it seemed to do little but embolden her first born's misbehavior, although her father did not help with such events by continuing to indulge her.
After sending her on a foreign trip to gain experience and learn about the world the only thing she had come back with was the loss of her own virginity. The shame…
"I want as many of my personal Shadows that you can spare to follow the Shield Hero and gather as much information as possible about the being that he is travelling with. I must know this thing's intent before any action is taken as well as it's possible strength. Bringing another war upon my lands while we sit upon the brink of further conflict is something that Melramarc can ill afford."
"It shall be done my Lady." Their heads bowed in unison.
"Very well, send my servant's back in and summon Melty, I must speak with my other child."
Her agents disappeared without further words as the Queen directed her attention back towards the mirror. The image painted of the black demon with a skull of bone painted itself within her head. It was already straining her to be away from her country as she was stuck on this diplomatic mission, her home was being threatened by the church, by her own family, and now one of the four cardinal Hero's was allied with a powerful demon that had been summoned to this realm?
'Please Shield Hero, remain strong.'
[***]
"Well… this looks… welcoming." Naofumi came upon the first village, it looked less than appealing.
Elias looked over his shoulder towards the signs as well, "It would seem that we have not been this place's only company." Elias stepped off from the back of the large bird and onto the ground of the location. The uneven cracks in the dirt and chipped stone gave signs of what used to be around. "The tracks to this location have seemingly faded, it's been sometime since anyone has made any real movement to and from this location." Righting himself back up Elias took the moment to look around before drawing up his hand and covering his boney exterior with glamour magic.
There were humans in the area and he didn't need to cause any further incidents with their superstitions. The Slaver had been the only person to see Elias's face and have no real reaction than to laugh and congratulate Naofumi on having such a rare acquisition.
An exterior surrounded by wooden spikes, more like an old english palisade that had wood on most of its sides as there were gaps for the opening and more than a few spots that had been broken and worn out due to lack of care or damage. Elias walked around his gloved hands touching the walls and seeing the scratch marks and bite marks that existed all around.
Naofumi held onto Filo's reins as he walked forwards with his own eyes taking in the run down village. "This place doesn't seem like anyone protected it during the last wave of catastrophe." His tone somber as he thought about how so many people suffered while the royal family and other heroes sat back and did nothing or ignored the plight of everyday people.
It didn't take long for their presence to be noticed, Elias had acted reasonably quick as there was a commotion from inside. A gathering of maybe thirty or even forty villagers made their way out together, with the headmen of the small group stepping forward. His ragged clothes and appearance showed that the suffering had affected all of them equally.
Perhaps they were just as trepid as the walls themselves as Naofumi had to take the lead. "So what happened here?"
The headmen took a few steps forward, it was evident the older man was still shaken up. "I-I'm sorry, but-but who are you sir?"
Shaking his head in annoyance he held up his hand, displaying the legendary shield on his hand. "I'm the Shield Hero, this is my companion Elias, and Filo." Gesturing to the other's that were with him. "So spill it, what happened here?" He didn't want to beat around the bush.
It took a moment for the man to register that he was speaking with one of the four cardinal heroes. "O-Oh! Sir Shield Hero your company is unfamiliar to us and you have- Oh you are the host of the heavenly fowl!?"
This had Naofumi confused and Elias as well. Both looked at one another then back to the headmen. "Heavenly fowl? What are you talking about?" It was a little confusing.
"Sir Shield Hero you are traveling with the Heavenly fowl are you not?" the headmen pointed his hand towards none other than Filo who released a pleased 'Guhwehh!'.
"What do you mean Filo?" Maybe they were mistaken, Filo was just born a few days ago. Granted she had accelerated growth due to him being a Hero and all but how that made his new Filolali important was beyond him.
Elias remained quiet, his eyes looking around at the location. Trying to examine the outside area, his other monstrous senses telling him a greater picture than any rambling of a human. 'Small marks, teeth, claws, others also show hints of dissolution. Perhaps slime creatures exist in greater numbers in the area as well.' Stepping away his pristine suit appearance was mildly ignored by the villagers as he bent down and touched along the ground.
"False Holly on the wind, twine the branches and spin me a web… tell the one who speaks the tale of what has become of this place." Elias's hand glowed and the ground flared in a brilliant light for a brief moment.
'A torrent of beasts, inhuman and magical in nature alike. They are coming from all over…' The scene was painted from all over. As if looking at a still image locked in time.
The walls were still upright, perhaps a dozen or more maybe defending the walls with makeshift weapons. Pitchforks and sticks were in the hands of the brave ones that maintained the positions of minor significance. The gate's were overwhelmed by dozen's of small balloon creatures, their mouths open and agape with the red shine of their eyes showing as they were heading towards their targets.
But that wasn't the reason, he'd seen fae creatures attack humans before in the real world. Chise was perhaps the greatest witness to such things although her being a surei bega was the reason for the attacks upon her. Done by misshapen and foolish fae. However, Elias walked amongst the damage of the attack.
'They move with purpose, following the actions of one.' Elias looked even from the still image of what he saw. This wasn't the wave of catastrophe that everyone spoke about with great fear or trepidation.
He could tell as he saw the still images of the faces of those near him they were not ones of bleak resistance or a moment of desperation. Their face's showed fear, the unexpected and unknown fate. There was no organization or planning done in this moment that he saw from the past.
"So what is causing the monster's to start attacking?"
Elias stopped and knelt down, his hands touching the ground from where the road traveled along. The similar beaten path showing something irregular, Elias could see it. It was faint but it was there.
A trail of mana, one that was incredibly potent and unique to only one single person.
Elias then stood up sharply, some members of the crowd that weren't totally keen on Naofumi and the Headman's conversation watched him move around, he seemed to be in a daze but said nothing.
Yet he moved quickly, Elias walking with determined focus down the road, his pace in that of aman wanting to rush but not seem as such.
The Shield Hero barely noticed it as he talked with what had transpired and saw his companion moving quickly away. 'What's up with him?' Wishing to voice his concerns but he knew he couldn't. "It's fine, he's just looking things over, he's just an unusual wizard." ''Not lying about that part anyway.'
However, Elias departed with great haste leaving him and Filo alone with the rest of the townspeople.
"So can we start from the beginning?"
Some time later Naofumi was in the only unoccupied room in the village, only the main town center wasn't a complete write off from the attack. 'This wasn't expected,' His eyes looked down upon her from his room as Filo curled up in her stall, the long journey and recent meal having put her down for the evening. Yet as he lounged in his evening attire he just mulled over the headsman's words.
"They were just attacked from nowhere, no warning, and they were coordinated." His fingers touched the bottom of his chin as he did his best to piece things together. "There's no rhyme or reason for any of this." He'd never seen the monster population act out like this without the waves of catastrophe being involved, but this wasn't during the waves of catastrophe which only added to the confusion. "If the waves aren't the reason the monsters are being stirred up then what is causing all of this? If this was like any other game there would be some kind of event or stipulation causing all of these creatures to start acting out. But there isn't anything, just a mass assault on a small town."
'Maybe there's something to the waves that isn't known. Like a status effect or timer that causes monsters to return to the area… No. No. Then this would be happening all over, and there hasn't been any news about anything like this happening elsewhere. Even after I got back there hasn't been any huge reports of monster sightings except-'
It was stupid of him to forget that MASSIVE oversight! "Shit, how did I not see that? The monsters were swarming the capital but of course that isn't a big deal when you have an entire army stationed around it. But then they moved out the reason for causing it. I mean the minute they move out-"
"Chise." The voice startled him as Elias pulled himself out from the shadow of the room. His face was no longer concealed by magic. His tone was almost a harsh foreshadowing as he crossed his arms. "Chise was moved through here, the faint trail of her mana was all over the road."
"Well isn't that good? We know that she's here and we're on the right path." To the Hero this sounded like good news but Elias had not divulged everything.
"There is a problem however," Removing his coat and placing it on an upright chair he sat down returning his arms to the crossed position over his chest. A feeling that was creeping inside was distracting him from focusing completely. It was an unwanted feeling, something he'd like to rip away from his being. "There wasn't a single strand of her mana."
"What do you mean?"
His skull tipped upwards, "Chise's mana is unique, it is also highly doubtful another Sleigh Beggy in this world, if there is then the obsession over my bride wouldn't be warranted at all. But when I followed the trail, it split off, becoming threads and splinters from those threads into strings that grew thinner and thinner from the main trail. It is an impossibility as Chise is a single entity ..." His voice trailed off as he felt the twitching and roiling of his chest.
"Multiple paths… I guess that tells us that they aren't going to make this easy to follow her." Not that it should just be so simple, but the teenager would appreciate the chance to take things easy for once or not have to worry about solving an issue that shouldn't devolve into making things even worse. "It looks like this won't be just a simple measure of following after her. But how can they make multiple paths?"
He looked to his companion who remained utterly silent, perhaps he was deep in thought? But Naofumi could tell that he wasn't pleased with this revelation. Not that he could actually blame him, it was frustrating and knowing that Elias wasn't exactly the talkative type he decided to leave it at that. "Well it's already late we'll rest for the evening and head off first thing tomorrow."
Still silence was his response and Naofumi just rolled his eyes. He was being ignored, 'Whatever.' He extinguished the light and got into bed. He was already tired from the trip and would need the energy for tomorrow.
But the silence was quiet of his partner had been mistaken for contemplation. The gnawing and twisting inside of his chest was worse.
The human and fae amalgamation wasn't listening to that though, he had been taunted by the church that stole his love. 'This… Is Unacceptable!' She should've been close, as a mage- No by rights as a man he should've been able to track her down and locate her.
"No…" Elias's voice growled in a dry whisper. It was a harsh rasp as trails of white smoke escaped from his white skull. "They are hiding my Chise, Keeping Her From Me-!" The white gloved fingers splintered apart as black tendrils slipped outwards from his frame. "They want to trick me," hoard my Chise when she is not theirs! Chise is mine. Only MINE-!"
The monstrous form of Elias slipped further and further into the darkness as Naofumi remained unaware, while already small by comparison to Elias, became even smaller. The large looping horns spilled backwards as black feathered wings rippled outwards.
He only grew larger until the room became a third of what it had been before. A large serpent-like tail, lengthy arms that were the size of what would be a male torso. Thick saliva dripped from his jaw as he was consumed with a long forgotten desire.
What shred of humanity existed within the bloated corpus erupted outwards from the window. The few people in the area did not view where the beast had come from but they did view it's massive red glowing eyes as it stormed off. It followed the direction the mage had gone earlier, but those that witnessed the monstrosity said nothing as it slipped into the darkness.
Fighting balloon's, slimes, and other creatures was one thing, but a behemoth of black tendrils. They closed their eyes and prayed to whatever God's they believed in that the beast would not come for them.`
[***]
"All Villagers Attention! This is by Royal Decree-!" A voice shouted too loudly waking up the still slumbering Naofumi.
"Nothing is ever simple around here," Naofumi could only release a weary groan as he stood up hearing all of the commotion from outside; it only meant more work and trouble for him. The shield Hero could already see that his compatriot was already awake -if he even slept at all- the exterior gave little in terms of his physical or emotional state. He wasn't hiding his face as he stood by the window, but it would be doubtful if anyone could make out what they were looking at anyway.
A sour taste filled the Shield Hero's mouth as he took full view of what was going on. "I guess we were either followed or I still have terrible luck." There were royal soldiers standing in the battered gateway. Already not a good sign, but the second, third and probably two or three more nails in the coffin to a bad situation sprung up in the form of the Bitch Princess and the Moron of the Spear Hero.
"Jeez we leave the capitol for one day and already they're out here hounding my ass. God can't we just have one day without drama." Naofumi contented himself by bitching at his rotten luck while Elais looked on from his position, the red hue of his eyes focused on the two ring leaders coming forward.
Beyond the sight of those from town was the decrepit sections of the woods
'What is their move?' He wasn't thinking like Naofumi was in terms of luck or not, since luck was a human concept meant to explain away matters of circumstance or planning on another's part.
The ancient magus looked towards the primary two in charge, he felt no threat from the Spear Hero, this sir Motoyasu or the moron as called by Naofumi. His vision remained on the princess, she was the only one that he had a reason to be concerned about. The Second Princess Malty Melramarc was a schemer, her intelligence hidden behind the visage of a carefree noble princess. It was often females that had the most in terms of cunning among their species.
'The female is more capable of harming a person than the male counterpart, the desire to utilize others to achieve a goal is remarkable if not alarming.' Knowing that among all life exists an opposite of it. If a human could be as calm, gentle, and self sacrificing as Chise, then the opposite had to also exist. So logically a human with impatience, hurtful, and selfish had to also be in existence.
'If the world has no diversity it can not change. For if everything was stagnant then I would not exist.'
Elias was brought out of his mental break by A poke on his side, his head turned and looked down towards Naofumi.
"Are you still spacing out up there?"
"I occupy space as do all creatures, though the matter in which I remain in it can change, I am still here." It was an odd question, though Naofumi was a crass human.
"Gah, how long have you been alive again?" The shield hero turned away and scratched his head.
"My existence has a long history but I would say over a thousand years that I can remember." He wasn't entirely sure himself, "I don't remember much before I met my first Master; perhaps it was still my bestial nature but I can say a thousand years or more."
The shield Hero let out a heavy sigh, "So how do you not know about human phrases? Why do you live in isolation most of the time?"
Elias turned from the window and fixed his shirt, "My understanding of humans is limited, it is why I bought Chise. It is a method for me to better understand human emotions and feelings. But to better explain, I know why humans feel things, why you feel sadness or hurt, when you are happy or scared. These things make sense to me, however, I do not know how to replicate these feelings in myself." His hand reached up and covered his face before a bright light shined and turned the monstrous exterior into a more pleasing shape. "In essence, to better understand human's I have been learning as much as I can about your kind."
"Well you need to watch some human movies then, it'll help catch you up on the unique sayings we have." Naofumi shrugged before grabbing his cloak and boots from near the doorway.
"Perhaps, but I often find written literature to be the best form of information. Meaning can be interpreted much easier on paper than through expression at times."
The two left from their small one room Hilton in the inn and went to discover why the princess and fool were here to begin with. As they walked outside Naofumi was almost jumped by his now loyal Filolai. "Guwahhh" Her birdish expression chirped aloud as her wide open mouth told her owner of one thing and one thing only."
"Yeah, yeah Filo I know I'll get you some breakfast in a minute." He reached up and patted her beak and ruffled a bit of her feathers along the crown of her head. She released a happy yelp and trotted alongside him.
"She is quite the glutton." Elias remarked to which Filo gave him an angry glare, somewhat understanding the implication.
"It's natural though, she was just a chick a few days ago, I'd assume her growth would follow along with an increased appetite." Naofumi gave Filo another few pats on the head before greeting the new arrivals although it was less enthusiastic.
"What are you doing here Motoyasu?" His arms were already across his chest as he stared down the blonde moron.
"Heh, seems like I have to keep following and cleaning up after you." His spear was tucked along his shoulder with a single hand. The smarmy grin on his face only further annoying Naofumi.
"Clean up, if you had half a brain in that thick skull of yours you'd realize that these people were in suffering because you guys failed to protect them."
"I was busy dealing with the waves of catastrophe, which I never saw you once, so who are you claiming to be unwilling to protect people?"
The two continued to exchange less than pleasantries as both stubborn boys refused to let the other one have the last word in any capacity. Getting right up in each other's face as they berated one another verbally. The crowd of people which gathered to view the princess and spear hero's arrival did not view this as another blessing.
"Oh, Sir Lindel-!" The overly sweet voice of Princess Malty would've sent a cold shiver down the Magus's spine if he felt the need, but he turned and offered a polite gentlemanly smile. "My, it was surprising to find you here already." She came up and grasped his gloved hand with an uninhibited eagerness.
Elias swallowed the disgust in his own throat and touched her hand with his own, reminding himself a polite response is often forgettable, a harsh one leaves one worth reprisal. Keeping his composure though it almost felt painful. "Indeed as well Princess, I didn't imagine us meeting so soon either."
How fortunate she was- though she might not know- that Elias had vented a great deal of his anger recently. Though the twisting knife inside of his chest still existed it was a dull pain compared to the clawing sensation he had felt the night before.
"Terribly tragic, but if you might be remaining here a little longer I might be willing to spare an evening alone should the opportunity present itself." The tipping of her chest exposing the creamy breasts for the handsome gentleman beside her. Inching herself a bit closer until- "Bawk!" The large snort and flapping of wings interrupted the princess who recoiled back as the flapping bird wings made her pull back. "Ugh! You large ingrate you should know better than to interrupt a royal princess!" Her sweet tone had transformed into a snobbish growl.
Filo was unimpressed and stepped up to her, even if she was merely a Filolai. It already didn't like the princess.
The move drew the other two heroes from their pissing contest. "How about you keep your royal ass hands to themselves instead of all over my partner." Naofumi grabbed a handle of Filo's reins, knowing that it would probably be best that his new method of transportation not injure -though she more than deserved it- the princess if he hoped to make any sort of progress.
"Go figure you'd only get a Fiololali, I got a dragon mount." Motoyasu took note of Filo as he gestured back to the scaled mount that was a mirror of Filo's equipment.
The Shield Hero turned his head towards the Spear Hero, quickly making one guess as to why Motoaysu would get a rare find. It probably suited him. "Well at least your brain size is comparable. The two of you should be a perfect fit."
The blonde teen's face bent into a scowl. "Oh you want to just start again Naofumi? That's fine!" He grabbed his spear, and dropped it down towards his target. "I can only stand so much of your smart mouth, so either put up or shut up Naofumi."
"P-Pl-Please good Heroes, could we not fight in the center of town?" It was the headsman trying to keep control of a clearly volatile situation. "You are the four heroes, would there not be a better use of your time?"
Naofumi wanted to wipe the smirk of Motoaysu's face dearly, he was a third of the reason for all the shit that was going on in his life. The blind idiot was being used and didn't even care or maybe he was just that stupid. Yet Elias, in disguise having a reprieve from the princess, stepped between the two. Although only a head taller than both he made the effort at resolving this conflict. But inside his head the only word that repeated was 'Die'
"Sir Naofumi, Spear Hero. We do not know the other's reasons for this arrival. We should settle this with diplomacy." Despite his wishes not to involve himself at all, he had to maintain appearances. He needed all of the humans to trust him while he was like this.
'Chise is dependent upon me' A basic but simple motivator.
"Oh a wonderful Idea Sir Lindel!" The princess chirped in coming over to pull her hero from the shield. "Come Motoyasu, you can have a rematch later."
With some reluctance both parties took a step back. Giving Malty a chance to address why they were here, no doubt all of those here -aside from the shield- would be impressed by her caring, and charity. "To the matter at hand, all citizens in this town will be relocated to the capital. It is a matter of safety and royal decree for the continued prosperity of the kingdom."
'Wait? Relocation?' The Shield Hero attempted to process what was just said. "So you're going to move an entire village to the capital?"
The second princess flipped her hair back in dramatic fashion. "Of course, Sir Shield, it's in the best interests of all those gathered here to be moved into the capital. There simply aren't enough troops to spare and it would be far more beneficial to keep- I mean relocate those without means to defend themselves to a place where they can be safe?"
"On paper that sounds good, but why force them to go?" If it was the princesses idea he already didn't like it.
"It's for their own good. Even you must've seen the marks outside, surely you know that this town can't survive another attack from the waves of catastrophe." She then turned her attention to the headman of the village. "It's up to you to get your people ready to move. They can't stay here."
"But Princess, what of our homes? Our goods, we can't move all of them within the time you demanded of us, we'll have to abandon everything!"
She turned her nose up at him. "This is a royal order, this is for everyone's well being and you're worried about a few buildings, I'd figure that your lives were more important."
The older headmen tried to speak up but stopped himself, how could he possibly argue with a royal order and a princess herself. His small band of fifty villagers were in no real position to refuse.
But there was one option.
"Per-Perhaps the Heroes could come to a better resolution?" His proposition was directed towards the second Princess.
"The Heroes?" Malty sounded confused and insulted, "There's only one real Hero here and he sides with me. I doubt the Shield Hero could do anything to or even think of a single idea that might be better than this plan."
Baited into a fight and neither side even realized it.
"I could easily find a better solution than relocating an entire village to the center of the capital. I mean what's your plan to move them, just have them walk that way on foot, or better yet what about food and provisions? Are you planning on escorting them the entire way back or just hoping for the best? Get real, you have nothing in terms of a good idea here at all."
"Myne already has all of this planned with her father Naofumi, and what's your big plan anyway, wait for everyone to get massacred?" Both Heroes were promptly back in each other's faces.
"I know thinking is hard since she does all of that for you Motoyasu, but you haven't thought of anything. These people have nothing if you send them all to the city they're just going to be refugees and then what happens when the waves are over is there anything set up for them to go back home?"
"So you're saying they just sit here and wait then!?" The Spear was right back and yelling in Naofumi's face.
The Shield pushed him back, "Get the hell out of my face!" He was caught flat footed and mildly staggered backwards as a result.
Just another spark to be set. Motoyasu was seeing red, "So you want to get physical huh Shield? Well then fine!" His spear dropped forwards. "You want to fight then let's fight!"
"Come on then! There won't be anyone saving your pride this time and no reason for me to hold back!" Naofumi's shield twisted into the black and boney mass, the horrifying visage exposing itself. "I've got something interesting to show you!"
A large black cloak moved between both, "Naofumi." Elias blocked his path, "This is not beneficial to us."
"I don't think so- This needs to be settled." He attempted to side step Elias but his path blocked him again. His green eyes looked into the artificial blue ones. "What if he was holding you back from…" His voice dropped down. "Chise?"
The blue became a flicker of red for a brief moment. What if he was in Naofumi's situation? Wouldn't this be logical? Undoing a wrong caused to him, the church, humans, fae, and alchemists alike always caused him misfortune. 'It doesn't mean I could never retaliate?'
"I will stand down." Elias pulled himself from the fight that was going to happen. Not that there weren't other hidden benefits to such actions.
Both Heroes got right into each other. "So how do you want to settle this blondie?"
The insult just furthered Motoayasu's frustrations. "Oh real mature, come on slum Lord Naofumi."
It was now time for the Princess to grin, "How about a joust?" She stated simply holding up both of her hands. "Both Heroes recently acquired mounts, why not see which is the better at mounted combat?" It was a good idea and Naofumi backed off first but not because he was wholly interested but there was something else.
"Oh yeah and what are the stakes?" Naofumi knew there would have to be a catch to this.
"Hmph, well then since you are so dead set on opposing this decree, if you win, unlikely as it is the village can remain here. But should you lose they will follow me and- You will relinquish Sir Lindel from your service and he will join our party."
It would remove a powerful ally from Naofumi and give her something new to play with.
"You're on witch." Naofumi then spun around and grabbed Filo by the reins whereas Motoasyu did the same with his own personal mount.
Both sides squared off just outside the front entrance. The long ground opened up for a duel between the two of them. The shield now on the back of Filo and the Spear on his dragon serpent mount.
The magus remained silent about the entire affair, too which no one questioned why. Either side could take it as confidence in the other. However his arms were crossed and hands lost within his black robes.
"First one to hit the ground loses." Motoyasu called out as he had the definite advantage in range compared to Naofumi, able to turn his spear into a lance. The two sides were less than fifty meters from one another. Both of the Heros locked themselves into their stirrups and rested in the saddle.
Filoalial looked down at the dragon, Shield stared at Spear.
Both sides remained locked in position until the Spear Hero had enough. "Bring it on Shield Hero!" Kicking into gear his spear dropping forward and underneath the arm and locked by the joint of his shoulder like a medieval jousting lance.
"Come on Filo!" Naofumi said, kicking into the sides of his own mount.
They charged towards one another a trail of dust kicked up behind the mounts as they sprinted towards one another. Naofumi's new cursed shield glowed as the mouth that mirrored Elias's own extended outwards. The black vines twisted forwards from each side of the thorn shield as his mount dashed forwards.
"Lightning spear!" The first shot was cast as the bolt of lightning ripped forwards. Pretensions aside this wasn't just some medieval joust. It shrieked forwards.
"Air strike shield-!" The green protective appearance flaring in front of him taking the blow sent forth. Yet as the first barrier broke apart Motoyasu had already sent another. "Second Shield-! Evade Filo!"
The beast responded by jumping onto the angled shield and pushing them off the attack's path and subsequently on the other side of the Spear Hero's weapon.
He had to throw it back over to begin attacking as Naofumi came in at an angle.
"Oh no you don't! Meteor-!"
"Too slow- Thorn explosion!" Naofumi held up the cursed shield which erupted with a barrage of black thorns. The sharp barbs impacted onto his mount as Motoaysu attempted to pull himself out of the angle but Naofumi wasn't going to give up. "Ram him!"
Filo had momentum as the opponent attempted to stop and change course. If a full bird charge nailed the spear Hero it would be over which was something a party wished to avoid as the Filolial made closer a whole ripped itself open in front of him. Without even uttering a word Naofumi fired his protective shield giving his mount only a second to use it as a springboard.
Jumping up into the air and clearing the Spear Hero which rounded up behind him as the once glorious momentum was changed into a disadvantage. "Damn cheater!" The Shield Hero cursed as he was put on the defensive forming into a tight cutting circle.
"Not this time Shield! Meteor Spear-!" The massive lance erupted into a fiery bolt which launched forwards spiraly towards Nafoumi's back.
"Shadow Form!" The blazing spear streaked right up and through the Shield Hero which slammed into the ground, thankfully missing those gathered to watch.
"What the hell!?" Motoyasu hadn't seen this skill before as it affected both Naofumi and his mount which became black like ink. Their eyes both red for a few moments and then snapping back into their regular forms. Both stopped in their tracks and turned towards him. "Alright I'm not taking it easy anymore on you Naofumi! Twin Meteor Spear!"
He wasn't going to give him a chance to charge back at him. 'Range! I have to win at range. I'm not playing that same game like in the duel!' The Blonde kept himself focused as he unleashed another attack forwards giving himself only a second break then throwing the second towards the charging Naofumi.
Holes began to rip themselves open on the path of the Shield Hero and he couldn't cast Shadow Form without stopping his momentum again. Throwing up his hand he could only hope to just withstand the onslaught- but he wasn't alone in this moment.
'False Holly on a ring, Twine the branches, ten fold, twenty fold. Send forth Tendrils to disrupt my foe!' The low chant of Elias came forward in an explosion of shadow magic. Dozens upon dozens of black thorny tendrils ripped forwards. Then drove forwards becoming a mass on their own and crashed into the first meteor spear.
The explosion blew apart a portion of the black spines but the magic still continued reforming and following behind Naofumi as he raced past. The second Meteor Spear only met the same fate.
"Shi-!" Motoaysu wasn't moving nearly fast enough. The Filolial was bearing down upon him and the shield Hero wasn't going to let this go! 'Revenge!' The shield on his arm twisted and wrapped around his arm, a thick black mass swelled forwards as Naofumi reared his arm back, even though he was still a meter away he threw the blow without thinking.
Except the blow came- a blackened and gnarled hand that was not entirely human stretched outwards from the Shield Hero's hand and drove hard into the other Hero's face. The blow caused him to pull at the reins slowing the movement as a massive burst of wind surged forwards and the small Filoliali tripled its size!
With even more weight behind it Filo slammed full force into the Dragon mount sending Motoyasu up into the air and all parties watched in slow motion as he flew into the air and then crashed to the ground.
Naofumi's arm had returned to normal before anyone had realized it, if they were looking before one might have thought it a trick of the mind or a spell. The Shield Hero did not realize the effect either but as he gave himself a triumphant cheer in victory he did notice something had quite heavily changed underneath him.
"Guwahhh!" The now massive Filoliali chirped her body had swollen, her feathers a pure white with pink streaks below her neck and pink accents tipped two very long feathers that flowed outwards almost like hair from the top of her head to the sides. The striking blue of the bird took on a far more human quality as she chirped happily.
It was a momentary high that Naofumi wished to ride for a long time but it would only last a few blissful moments until being cut short by the red haired princess.
R&R