I recently hit 1,000 follows on this story. I just want to thank everyone who has stuck it out with me this far in!

Also, I usually don't do this, but due to the nature of what's gone over in this chapter, I want you guys to read the AN at the end before commenting on it. You'll know what topics I'm talking about once you get to them.

In the resting quarters of Melromarc Castle, Chazon was leaning against the wall while fighting off the surges of paralysis that still plagued his system. His mind was a spiral of confusion, fear, and chaos.

He had awoken three days after the battle against the Church of Three Heroes in the royal infirmary, confused as to why he had blacked out mid-battle. The last thing he remembered was Balmus getting ready to execute Rifana and Amber and desperately trying to feel anything but Despair, since it would have made him too passive to save anyone.

When he had finally roused from his sleep his party members, including Obsidian who had rejoined them, practically dog-piled him with cries of relief. After he was able to calm them down, he was able to get the full story of what had happened during the civil war between religion and monarchy.

It included his slaughtering of church soldiers under the influence of Bloodlust's Partisan and how he was responsible for killing a good number of them off. It answered his question of why he was stuck with a paralysis status that had no defined expiry timer. His "Final Indignation" gave him the Envolted status and only with the most potent of anti-paralysis medications and purest of holy water did it downgrade.

That's not the reason behind Chazon's confusion and fear, though. When he was told the number of people he had slaughtered that day, he didn't feel anything.

He felt numb.

Am I truly getting so used to killing that I no longer feel anything for anyone I kill? I… I don't want it to be so, but my inability to feel for them… even if they were my enemies might be-

Footsteps broke Chazon out of his thoughts as he looked up. It was Naofumi approaching as he gave his fellow hero a concerned look. "Are you sure you're doing alright, Chazon?"

"Physically, just dealing with paralysis. I'm sure you have it worse, considering I heard you were left on death's door after your own "Forbidden Ultimate Skill" use. Aren't you still cursed?"

That got a grunt from the Shield Hero. "Yes, but I'll manage. I was left with no choice when I used it, so I don't regret it. But that's not what I was asking about."

There was a deafening silence before Chazon let out a shaky sigh. "Tell me… am I turning into a monster?"

"No." That earned Naofumi a surprised look. "If what I heard from your party members is correct, you were pushed into a corner with no way out unless you succumbed to your Bloodlust. Besides, if you tore yourself apart every time you were forced to kill, you'd end up shredding yourself at the subatomic level."

Chazon hesitated before shaking his head. "I get that, I really do, but I should feel at least SOMETHING, right? Not this void of nothing for every soldier who was someone's parent or child."

Naofumi knew where he was coming from. To feel nothing for such death was the sign of losing your humanity, but he had a rebuttal. "You do feel something, though. You're afraid of what it means and, to me, that means you're not completely gone. At the end of the day, you made your choice and they made theirs."

"It probably doesn't help that you two are affected by darkened emotions and corrupting forces. Willpower can only carry you so far." The two heroes look to see Ren approaching. "Queen Mirellia has summoned all 4 of us heroes to the throne room, probably for the King's trial. All of our party members will be waiting for us back here after it concludes."

As much as he didn't want to see Trash again, Naofumi figured it would be for the best. "Time to see how much Trash really regrets putting me and my party through the wringer." Chazon didn't say anything, merely deciding to push all of his fear to the side for the time being.

True to what Ren said, the only ones present in the throne room were Itsuki, Mirellia, a contingent of royal guards, and some observers on the balcony above. In the middle of the room was a wooden stand not unlike the witness stands found in courtrooms in the hero's old worlds.

Mirellia nodded at her most recent arrivals. "Thank you for joining us. I know all present have been through a lot, so I hope to make this as quick as possible."

Itsuki suppressed a scoff of annoyance. Waiting on those two before dispensing justice? Feels like a waste of time, especially when Ren and I would have served just fine...

After clearing her throat, Mirellia adopts a stern look full of authority. "The accused will enter now!"

Everyone turned to see the doors at the end swing open again, this time revealing Aultcray in shackles and a solemn look on his face. Naofumi immediately realized that, despite wishing for something like this to happen ever since his rape accusation, he didn't feel as joyful as he could have. Even so, he still held some resentment so he merely kept a stern gaze on the fallen king as he stepped onto the stand.

Mirellia glowered at her husband, not showing any sort of softness since she knew that everyone in Castle Town would be seeing this trial through magic monitors around the castle.

"Aultcray Melromarc XXXII, you have been brought before me for a crime most unforgivable. During my absence, you have chosen to slander and shun the Shield Hero and, in doing so, put our world in peril. You failed to consider not only the effect it would have on our capabilities in fighting the Waves, but also Siltvelt's reaction to disgracing their most revered hero."

Chazon immediately remembered one reason why the Queen was doing this. I forgot about the issue regarding Siltvelt's invasion! I hope this does placate them enough to call said invasion off, but… without bringing that cunt here to properly dispel the rape accusation, I'm not completely confident.

Aultcray merely stared at the railing in front of him. "I understand… or rather, I understand now that I've seen what has happened in our fair nation as of late…"

That made Mirellia narrow her eyes. "Do you truly? Can we take your words at face value, or do we need to put you under 'oath' to guarantee that you speak the truth?"

There was a moment of silence before Altcray looked up again. "Put me under oath. I doubt many would believe me after all of the terrible things that have happened under my rule unless they have that guarantee."

That surprised everyone, including Naofumi and Mirellia. Naofumi began to ponder why Trash was willing to go the distance to tell the truth when he had no problems with deceit before.

Mirellia regained her composure before ordering a slave brand to be marked on her husband, with her as the master. Once the seal process was complete, she wasted no time. "Under your brand, you will speak only the truth! Were you the one behind the Shield Hero's disgrace after the false rape accusation?"

"Partially. The Church of Three Heroes helped instigate some rumors and used "false Shield Heroes" to further ruin his reputation, but I was the one who allowed it and even ordered some of it myself. I even passed official legislation that prevented his party members from Classing Up…" No shocks were seen.

That got a slight scoff from Naofumi. Good thing I never bothered to try and Class Up Raphtalia and Filo. It would have been a complete waste of time.

"Did your legislation include preventing the Spear Hero's party from Classing Up as well?"

"No. I was unaware at the time that Chazon-dono was being persecuted by the church because of his own party members." There was a pause before Aultcray widened his eyes. "That actually explains the abnormal amount of church Shadows lurking in the room containing the Dragon Hourglass."

In other words, they were hoping for Chazon to try and Class Up to ambush and capture him right inside the church, away from prying eyes. Guess they got foiled when he read between the lines and vacated.

That got a sigh from Mirellia. "I suppose you weren't COMPLETELY unreasonable at the time, then." She corrected her posture. "Were you in on the Shield Hero's rape accusation?"

"No. I genuinely believed that Naofumi-dono had done such a terrible deed to my daughter and passed my judgement as such." Aultcray started clenching his fists with a grimace. "After my initial release from prison, one thing that I was told was how many innocent people I had condemned to death because she accused them. As such, I bear fault for blindly believing her over every innocent soul I had executed on her word alone..."

Once again no shock occurred, which caused a great stir amongst the crowds watching the trial.

"The First Princess was actually doing that?!"

"I can believe it. Despite how pretty she looked, I overheard her scheming one time. I was lucky to escape alive!"

"Explains why so many adventurers didn't want to risk letting red-heads join their parties…"

"I heard she escaped the capital during the church's battle with the Shield Hero. That's probably why the King is the one branded and being questioned and not that wench."

Rino clutched her heart with a pained look, which caused Amber to start hugging her out of worry. I never knew just how bad it was for the other adventurers because of her…

Mirellia knew that, thanks to Aultcray willingly subjecting himself to the slave brand, a good amount of the stigma surrounding Naofumi would be lifted. Because of that, she felt no further questioning besides one was needed. "Then you confirm that the rape accusation is false?"

"To the extent of my knowledge, yes. And before anyone says anything, allow me to say something." He looks at Mirellia. "I don't love you." His crest promptly shocked him at telling a blatant lie.

He did that to show that the crest was working properly… "Very well. You have told the truth and revealed to our subjects that the Shield Hero was undeserving of his reputation. However, I must speak plainly here: your final verdict and punishment will be decided by him."

Melty tensed up beside with extreme worry as she watched from above. Filo and Obsidian were with her at her request as all of them observed the trial and they both tried to comfort her. Naofumi-sama… please…

Naofumi wasn't expecting the ball to be in his court so suddenly, but recomposed himself. I won't deny, the temptation to demand his execution is present. However… From everything I've heard, he was more of a puppet than an instigator for a good amount of my misery. At the same time…

He suddenly nods with a slight smirk. "The persecution I endured because of your actions still happened, regardless of your role in them, and it's hardly something I'll forget. However, I'm feeling merciful today." He points at the King. "From today on, you shall be known by your new name of Trash and stripped of your position as King for humiliation! You're starting back at the bottom!"

He drops the smirk. "I will, however, give full custody of your punishment to her majesty. Should the day come that she deems you worthy of reclaiming your original name and title, I will have no objections to her changing them back. That is all."

Clearly nobody expected him to add that footnote as there was dead silence in the hall. Mirellia cleared her throat as she recomposed herself. "The Shield Hero has spoken! Trash, you are henceforth stripped of your title of King until such time that you have proven your worthiness of it." Trash merely bowed his head, choosing not to speak further.

Chazon wasn't expecting that turnabout. If anything, he felt a bit disappointed. I was hoping for a harsher punishment… though I suppose if Naofumi thinks that's enough, then I won't say anything.

After Trash's trial, Mirellia openly declared that the new state religion will be the Church of Four Heroes and that the Three Heroes Faith is now deemed heretical. When Chazon went to visit the Dragon Hourglass at Mirellia's request later on, he and his party members saw that the symbol had already been modified to include a shield.

Kardia smirked at the change as she held onto the incubator still containing Chazon's Filolial egg. "As it should be, honestly. All that's left is to convince Siltvelt and Shieldfreeden to change from the Church of the Shield Hero to this as well."

"Shieldfreeden would be far easier since they are a lot more open minded!" Kekal laughed haughty for a few seconds before she trailed off nervously. "Siltvelt, though…"

I'd honestly prefer if there was no religion at all, but that's wishful thinking at its finest. Chazon shook his head. "Let's not worry about other countries for now. After Naofumi's party gets their Class Ups, we're finally getting that damn level cap off you guys after how long it's been hampering us."

The Queen had apparently called for both Chazon's and Naofumi's parties to Class Up at the same time. Chazon allowed Naofumi to go first since the day was primarily centered around him and his escape from his false reputation. What seemingly solidified that fact was the honor guard the Shield Hero got as everyone exited the castle.

Rifana crossed her arms as the party entered the church. "Getting to this point is great and all, but we need to determine what Classes we're going to pick. We might not get the exact options we want."

"I'm sure the Dragon Hourglass will read our stats and give us the Classes that best fit what we want." Rino was determined to remain optimistic in trying to hide her excitement.

Not long after, Naofumi's party exited the passageway leading to the Dragon Hourglass. Everyone noticed their baffled looks. "You guys got your Class Ups… right?"

Raphtalia nodded slowly, still holding Naofumi's incubator. "We did… but we didn't get a chance to choose our Classes. The hourglass suddenly Classed us up and, according to Naofumi-sama, doubled all of our stats."

Amber tilted her head in confusion. "That's a good thing, right? Even if you didn't get the class you wanted, more stats can only be helpful!"

"Filo wanted a Class that would let her spew poison! Filo is very disappoint!" Filo pouted, much like a child that didn't get the exact flavor of ice cream they wanted.

Obsidian was exasperated at his fellow monarch. "Filo-chan… I don't think that would be very helpful considering how you fight…"

"Still!"

Naofumi let out an attention-getting cough. "I was thinking of heading back to the audience chamber and confronting the Queen over it, but I think I'll wait and see how your Class Ups go first. Maybe the parties of Legendary Heroes Class Up in that manner."

"Don't worry, we'll let you know if something happens to us as well." Merlay was trying to wrap her head around what could have potentially happened. She's no stranger to Classing Up thanks to her grandmother, but she couldn't remember anything that could alter the process at the moment.

Going into the Dragon Hourglass Chamber, the party sees Ake and a few of the others who helped them during the third wave. "Sir Chazon! Glad to see you're alright!"

"A little paralyzed, but doing fine regardless."

Rino gave Ake a questioning look. "Did you see anything peculiar happen when Raphtalia-chan and Filo-chan Classed Up?"

That got a sigh out of the young knight. "Nothing that stood out to us. Even with all of their stats being doubled, which should be nothing but good, it was discouraging to have a Class Up be something of a let-down."

Merlay shook her head. "No point in dwelling over it." She looks at her party members. "There's enough room upon the altar for all 7 of us to fit. All we need to do is coat our hand in holy water and touch the base of the Dragon Hourglass for the process to start. While we could do it one at a time, it's a bit more efficient if we all do it at once since Naofumi-sama is waiting for us."

"That's right! Do you know someone who Classed Up before, Merlay-sama?"

Clearly not expecting to be given that honorific, she stuttered a bit. "Y-yes. My grandmother told me about how her Class Up went and what to expect."

Kekal grinned. "You descended from a Class Up mage? I expect great things from you on par with mine!"

Rifana rolled her eyes. "If that's all, let's get started."

Kardia made sure to pass the incubator to Chazon before stepping up. Once everyone was in position, they touched the altar and it started glowing a brilliant golden color. Right then, a "Class Selection" window popped up on Chazon's Status magic for both Rifana and Kardia. I'm willing to bet that, because they're my slaves, I have reign over what they class into.

He decided to let them pick their own classes, trusting their judgement on the matter. Ever since he woke up from his paralysis-induced coma, Rifana in particular had been almost as headstrong as Raphtalia while also being very straightforward. Feels like yesterday I adopted her and she was acting meek… I guess that means she's made a complete psychological recovery.

The area suddenly filled with a white light, briefly blinding Chazon. The moment it passed, he looked to see all of his party members with baffled looks… and doubled HP and MP numbers. Right before he could ask what's wrong, his status magic suddenly had a bunch of pop-ups:

Rino (Holy Ninja)

75% increase to Atk and Mag, 100% increase to Agi.

Trait: Sacred Steps

Hate generation reduced, increased healing magic potency.

.

Rifana (Shield Emissary)

150% increases to Def and MDef, 50% increase to Agi and Mag, 90% Atk penalty

Trait: Perfect Blockade

Temporarily increases defenses on a perfectly timed shield parry. All attacks and spells have extreme hate generation.

.

Kardia (Multi-tailed Ascendant)

200% increase to Mag, 50% increase to Agi.

Trait: Multicast

.

Obsidian (Filolial King Candidate)

125% to Atk and Agi.

Trait: Delta Force

Temporarily increases Atk, Mag, and Agi after a perfect dodge.

.

Amber (Rising Sun)

50% increase to Mag, 100% increase to Def and MDef.

Trait: Brilliant Stalwart

Technique, lowers damage taken and dealt, causes attacks and spells to have extreme hate generation.

.

Merlay (Archsage)

100% increase to Mag and MDef, 50% increase to Agi.

Trait: Sage's Dogma

Technique, allows manual setting of magical affinity boosts. Magic limited to set affinities, can only set two, cannot be used mid-combat.

.

Kekal (Blood Bard)

100% increase to Atk and Agi, 50% increase to Mag.

Trait: Debilitation Aggregation

New debuffs inflicted will refresh any prior debuffs inflicted by the user. Grants technique "Festering Soul" which can refresh all debuffs on the target.

Information dump ahoy- wait a minute…

Ake had a look of defeat. "It happened to you guys as well…"

"I was still trying to determine what I wanted! Now I know how Filo-chan felt..." Obsidian pouted. "My hair felt funny right before it happened too."

Kardia quickly put two-and-two together. "Did our classes automatically get selected because of Obsidian's status as a King Candidate?"

Merlay remembered something right then. "Why didn't I think of that? Grandmother did mention off-handedly that certain items can affect the process." She looks at Obsidian's standing hair-strand. "Perhaps the crowns Fitoria gave the two counts as such an item?"

Chazon suddenly grabbed Obsidian's hair-strand and wiggled it, much to his son's chagrin. "That would make sense. Let's meet up with Naofumi and see the queen. I'll tell you guys just how the process enhanced you all." He got nods from everyone at that.

"Merlay's assessment is correct."

In the audience chamber, Mirellia and Melty were speaking with the parties of the two heroes, having learned of what happened during their Class Ups. Filo, Obsidian, and Amber were off to the side chattering amongst themselves.

Naofumi looked confused. "But Filo and Obsidian were considered equals by Fitoria. Why did Raphtalia and her get doubled stats across the board, while Chazon's party members were more like traditional Class Ups?"

"Probably because of how many party members it had to affect at once." Kardia spoke up after much thought of her own. "There's only 2 of your party and 7 of ours."

Merlay nodded. "Meaning that the power of Obsidian's crown was more diluted. At least, that's the current hypothesis."

Melty shot Chazon's party a concerned look. "Were the stat increases at least sufficient enough?"

"Pretty much so. From what I heard from Ake and Merlay, the average Class Up stat increases range from around 25 to 50% in select stats. The stat increases for my party members ranged more from 50 to 125% in select stats with two exceptions, so I don't think we'll fall too far behind."

Kekal let out a hearty laugh. "Certainly! Besides, I'm sure our natural growth will allow us to keep up as well!"

"You mentioned those two exceptions." Naofumi crossed his arms. "Considering you didn't talk about them coming into the castle, Rifana and Kardia had something different happen to their stats."

"Right… well Rifana's defenses skyrocketed by a whopping 150% with a 50% increase to Agility and Magic. What also happened is that she received a 90% PENALTY to her Attack."

"Wait, then that Class Up made me into a discount Shield Hero!" Rifana looked rather surprised at the information as she double-checked her status info. She didn't FEEL weaker.

"Considering your class name is "Shield Emissary," that's probably an accurate description."

Rifana suddenly had a determined smile. "All the better to defend my family with!" Raphtalia was surprised by Rifana's personality returning to how it was before the first wave back when they reunited in Castle Town. Even more so, she was happy about it as it meant to her that her dear childhood friend had finally let go of her past trauma.

Chazon looked at his Kitsune party member. "Then there's Kardia… the only stat that increased was Magic… by a gargantuan 200% along with a 50% increase to Agility."

That stunned the entire room into silence, even the three children who overheard that tidbit. Eventually, Mirellia let out a cough. "So her Magic stat… effectively tripled is what you're saying?"

"And before the Class Up, it was already potent. Let's just say… I get the feeling her Faust-class spells are going to rival most regular mage's Zweite-class or even Drifa-class spells."

Kardia just turned into a magical nuker. I shouldn't think this, but now I'm glad she's my slave…

Merlay didn't say anything, but a small feeling of inadequacy started to fester in her heart, feeling overshadowed by Kardia's magic power.

Rino went back through her personal status info and realized something. "I have the trait "Sacred Steps" which reduces hate generation and increases my healing magic potency. In fact, everyone now has a trait." She looks at Raphtalia. "Did you guys get traits as well?"

Naofumi went back into Raphtalia's status info and widened his eyes. "Raphtalia's class Blessed Warrior gave her "Sacred Strength," increasing her Attack growth and reducing hate generation from all attacks."

Raphtalia recoiled a bit. "Then not only did my Attack get doubled, but I'll be getting more from each level up? I said I would be your sword, Naofumi-sama, but I never expected this!"

Rino and Raphtalia had already compared their stats while moving to the audience chamber. Rino still had superior Agility and Magic, but Raphtalia far outmatches her in Attack and, ironically, both defenses. With the new information, Rino knew that she'd never catch up to Raphtalia on that front, but was happy for her demi-human friend.

Naofumi nods before looking at Filo's status info. "Filo got "Delta Force" as her trait."

"The same one as Obsidian, despite how their stats were increased differently." Merlay looks at the two Filolials, who were comparing their own stats. In their case, Filo had better Magic and Defenses, but was outshined in Agility and Attack.

Chazon remembered one fact that he wished to forget about. When he looked at Amber's stat increases and new trait, she was shaping up to be just as effective a defender as Rifana. That info made his soul grow cold because he refused to put his sweet, innocent daughter into the firing lane to take hits for him. Just the thought of her being hurt makes me very unsettled.

Mirellia nods at the entire group. "Regardless of what has happened, I am very glad I am to see you all being released from the level 40 shackles. However, your presence has allowed me to divulge some information that I've discovered. I would've saved this for the second Hero's meeting, but this information needs to be told to all of you."

Naofumi raised an eyebrow. "Second Hero's meeting?"

"I'll explain further when we start it. The short is that there is a banquet to be held in the castle celebrating the annexation of the Church of Three Heroes, but I wished to discuss some things with all four Heroes while it's going on."

Rifana crossed her arms. "There was one piece of information you wanted to tell us now?"

"Regarding the Replica Replicas the church was using, I have some disturbing news. Thanks to Sir Ren and his party's efforts, they managed to salvage the documents regarding their creation." Mirellia suddenly had a very dark look. "From what we learned… the gemstones that allowed those things to use hero skills? They were infused with souls, particularly the souls from demi-human children…"

In the next instant, a loud clatter rang out into the chamber. When everyone looked, they saw Rino with a sheet white complexion and very close to hyperventilation. She had thrown her two Replica Replica Swords a good distance away from herself.

Chazon wasted no time in giving Rino a cool-down hug and he tried to soothe her, with Amber and Obsidian quickly joining. Melty had pure horror plastered onto her face. "Then… all of the slaves the nobles were abusing…?

"More than likely used by the church to make those weapons. According to some of the notes, the more tortured and hopeless a soul, the better the weapon." Mirellia motions one of her royal guards to take the weapons Rino tossed away. "We'll be studying them to see if there is any way to safely remove the souls and allow them passage into the afterlife. However, that was just for the mass-produced prototypes."

"Wait, there's more?!" Kekal had lost all jolliness in her voice.

"It seems the more advanced Replica Replicas were designed to use the wielder's soul instead of using a soul-inlaid gem. The process was made highly efficient so as to not eat the user's soul within a few attacks, but… the side effects still included the rapid corrosion of the soul."

"Explaining why Glone went from a regular knight who held hard grudges to a bloody knight who was part berzerker…" Naofumi shuddered. Remembering how Glone was acting sent chills down his spine when he realized just how eroded the knight's soul could have been at that point. That's a fate I would not wish on anyone besides Bitch…

He quickly thought of something. "That doesn't explain why Glone was able to unlock the Cursed Series in that Advanced Replica!"

"That… is still undergoing investigation. Thankfully enough of the Advanced Replica survived your attack for study, but it'll take more time."

Chazon had managed to calm Rino down before giving back her Magic Gold Dual Blades. The sight of the advanced form of the very first weapon Chazon had ever given her was enough to help bring her spirit up a bit more. "Thank you… I just hope the children in those two swords don't hate me…"

"I'm sure they're happy you used them to dismantle the religion that caused them pain and suffering in life." Kekal of all people stated. "Truth be told, I always wondered what I was hearing from those weapons. The only ones that seemed positive were the ones Rino-chan were using."

"Thank you, Kekal-chan. It does my heart good to hear that."

Merlay gave Kekal an odd look. "Can Vampire demi-humans commune with the souls of the dead?"

"Only Vampires within a special bloodline can do so. It doubles as a way for us to see and even enter someone's dreams or memories." Kekal regained her confident air. "Now you see why I keep proclaiming myself a Vampire Lord?"

Chazon let out a quiet snort of amusement. While her boasting does seem a bit more warranted… I think I'll keep to myself that it sounds like she's part Succubus.

"Well… I'll let you know when we're able to free the trapped souls." Mirellia motions to the group. "The banquet will be tonight, so be prepared for it. Also, be on the lookout for potential interlopers and Three Heroes faith fanatics. They might try to do something during that time period."

Naofumi flinched a bit as he recalled the last "banquet" that he attended. Hopefully nothing bad happens this time…

That night, the parties of all four heroes were in the grand mess hall of the castle enjoying the feast that was brought before them. As it turns out, Ren and Itsuki had more party members in reserve than when they were helping with the Church of Three Heroes. They were unaware of everything that had been going on, especially Ren's extended party who were out on an assignment.

While the festivities were going on, the Queen, Melty, and the four Legendary Heroes were in one of the meeting rooms. Chazon had noted at least one improvement over the last meeting: the table was far roomier.

Itsuki, wanting to get the meeting over with, motioned towards Mirellia. "How come we're having another meeting so soon?"

She clears her throat. "Originally, I had intended this meeting to be the one where you would share your Strengthening Methods. However, thanks to the machinations of the Three Heroes Faith, we already have that completed. As such, I wished to discuss a few other things while you're all still here in the capital.

"First item on the agenda is Siltvelt. While we have put an end to the Three Heroes Faith and cleared Sir Naofumi of his false charges, even I'm uncertain if that'll be enough to stay their hand."

Ren leaned forward in a thoughtful position. "Even when we account for how slow information can travel?"

"Yes." Mirellia develops a stern look. "While we could have sir Naofumi personally sign a document saying that he's no longer marred by our nation, they might not believe it. As such, we might have to resort to a political marriage to satiate them."

Naofumi's face twisted in shock, Chazon spat back into the cup he was drinking from, and the other two heroes had baffled looks. Melty must have seen where her mother was going because she was bright red. "Y-your majesty! A-are you implying that…"

"Yes. I'll tell Siltvelt that the Shield Hero and the Crown Princess are to be wed as a symbol of our willingness to reconcile with our nation's long-standing enemy." Mirellia looks at Melty. "We won't force the marriage straightaway, if that's what you're concerned about. However, am I correct in understanding that you wouldn't be totally opposed to the arrangement?" Melty sputtered a bit but couldn't come up with a response.

Chazon wanted to argue against it, but he quickly remembered all of the political marriages that happened in his world's history. It was typically done by one country to try and dissuade another from aggressive action or as an attempt at unification… exactly the situation Melromarc is in. I have to wonder if Queen Mirellia didn't at least somewhat plan Melty getting attached to Naofumi through all of those dangerous spots they were in together…

"Please make sure you exhaust all other options first before we resort to that…" Naofumi wanted to think of Melty as more of a younger sister due to her age rather than wife material. However, he also knew he couldn't argue too much against it thanks to the high stakes.

"I cannot make any promises, Sir Naofumi, but rest assured that you won't have to worry about it for a while longer." She looks back at the other heroes. "As for the second topic, I need to warn you three about the remnants of the Three Heroes Faith. Fanatics are at their most dangerous when they're on the brink of annihilation, so I want to warn you about any attempts at them trying to turn the public against you."

Itsuki forced down a scoff. I'm pretty sure I don't need to worry about it. I've served justice around the country enough to not be affected by it. Chazon saw, for the briefest of moments, an arrogant smirk in Itsuki's face. He wondered if he was seeing things.

"We'll be careful. As I brought up before, info travels slowly in this world, especially without crystal balls." Ren had a dark look now. "Just as Naofumi might still meet resistance from those who haven't heard about the disproven charges, we might have to contend with people gullible enough to believe the fanatic's lies about the rest of us."

"It probably doesn't help my case that I've largely stuck to only Lerno and Lute Villages before now, so I'll be extra careful." Chazon felt some regret over not traveling the country more, but tried to mentally justify it as him wanting to raise all his party members up before shipping out.

Naofumi thought of something then. "If I come across villagers who trust me but distrust you guys, I'll try and persuade them to reconsider."

"Let us hope the damage is mitigatable." Mirellia's face softened a bit. "Our final point of discussion is something more positive. I was informed about an Activation Event happening at the archipelago known as Cal Mira."

Chazon had to resist pinching the bridge of his nose in exasperation. They seriously are calling it an "Event" even though it could be called a special occurrence instead? They really aren't helping their case by making summoned Legendary Heroes think this is one big game…

Itsuki smiled. "What kind of Event are we talking about?"

"Every ten years, Cal Mira goes through a strange phenomenon where demons appear all over the islands. In addition, a strange energy permeates the areas which greatly increases EXP gains for all adventurers who go. It's such a large event that Cal Mira practically based its economy and traditions around the events."

I'm not going to lie, the EXP portion of the event is more for the Shield and Spear Heroes considering how far behind they are in levels. However, I won't say anything since the Bow and Sword Heroes can still benefit from all of the materials and monster drops the event provides.

That got a small smile out of Ren. "Sounds like the perfect place to grind next. Are things calm enough to allow us to go there?"

"Yes. I'll begin the preparations to have you all granted passage to the islands. That is all, you are dismissed to inform your parties."

While the other three heroes started getting up to leave, Chazon remained sitting briefly to ponder something. Looks like we're set to start leveling up again, huh? I'm glad I managed to unlock further levels of my Companion, Slave, and Monster Spears while they were level locked. That'll allow for further stat growth and stat growth manipulation, so we'll be able to keep up with Naofumi's party.

I should probably reconfigure Kekal's stat distribution, since she was level 40 when she joined me. I also need some of her hair for the Vampire Spear for extra stats…

"Ah, I'm actually glad you lingered, Sir Chazon." Mirellia got the Spear Hero's attention as he noticed everyone, including Melty, had already left. "I wished to ask you about how you and your party members are getting along."

That earned a raised eyebrow. "They've been getting along very well, all things considered. Any fights that happen amongst themselves tend to be light-hearted at worst. Guess I got lucky having a party that meshes well."

That got a small chuckle out of the Queen. I guess even his newest addition eventually managed to fit in despite her personality. "That's not quite what I meant. I mean how far are things amongst you?"

"I'm not sure where you're-" Chazon's mind clicked as to why she was asking that and immediately put the pieces together. He glowered at her. "If I had to hazard a guess, it was you who told them about my so-called "privileges" as a hero?"

"Why not? I was certain they would get along-"

"I'd rather wish you never did."

Mirellia immediately dropped her smile as she noted the ice in his voice. "Are you saying you're dissatisfied?"

"With the way they're interacting with me now, yes. I never bought into the whole polygamious relationship schtick in my entire life. Always believed marriage to only be a two person bond." He crosses his arms. "I'd rather just be married to Rino and let the others find their true special partners to spend their lives with."

While she hid it, a small sense of dread began to grow in Mirellia's heart. "I would advise you to reconsider, lest you break their hearts. Those girls are wholly dedicated to you."

"And I am truly thankful for such dedication. However, I refuse to change my stance and feel they need to be dissuaded. I grew up surrounded by hatred towards polygamies and, while it wasn't completely illegal in my old country, a lot of friends and family jeered at any they saw. I'd rather not become something I hate as well."

"So then you're never going to marry anyone but Rino, no matter what? Even if it means-"

"If you're going to keep trying to make me reconsider, then this conversation is over. I may be a Legendary Hero, but before that I am human. And nothing pisses me off more than others trying to dictate how my life should be." With those words he exited the meeting hall, yet he held a slightly hollow feeling in his gut that he couldn't identify. It didn't help that the corners of his vision had a slight rusty orange color at that moment.

Unbeknownst to both parties, someone had overheard their conversation. Looking at the retreating back of the Spear Hero while hiding behind the door, Kardia clutched her heart in pain and frustration.

Why…?

"So the Spear Hero has made his stance…"

In her personal quarters, Mirellia had managed to get into contact with King Faubray as much as she loathed his appearance and personality. However, this subject seems to have earned a more respectable demeanor from him, given the circumstances.

"Yes… I had surmised that if I told his party members, who were all showing signs of romantic affection for him, that they could learn to share him, we could have avoided this. However, I failed to consider the Spear Hero's own obstinance."

"You've done what you can. As it stands, forcing anything on him will cause him to rebel and your country can ill afford to lose the Spear Hero. With the Seven Star Vassal Heroes being kept for the other nations to fight the Waves, it's a perilous situation."

"You mentioned something about a rumor within your borders regarding him a few days ago."

That got a sigh. "Yes. A Shadow in one of my towns closer to the border heard a rumor had started circulating, which said the Spear Hero was only taking one wife and no others. They have just recently informed me that there was already an uproar over it and… I can't stop anyone who gets the idea of going after him without risking a LOT of unrest. These things are taken very seriously, as you know."

Mirellia grimaced. "Nothing on the women of Faubray trying to go after the other three heroes?"

"I think the consensus was that both the Bow and Sword Heroes were young enough to leave alone for now, while the Shield Hero was recognized as "traumatized" by the rape accusation and off the market. Because of that, the Spear Hero is the only one the women of my country are sizing up for marriage and sex with intent of child-birth."

"And my own hands are tied if I wish to avoid an international incident, no matter how much I want to prevent it..."

"That's about the whole of it. Even worse, that self-same town is currently a hotbed for drug dealers. Succubus Lust Elixers, in particular, have become an unwanted commodity. I wouldn't doubt it if any women, who want to claim the Spear Hero for themselves, got the drug as a persuasion tool."

Mirellia remembered when she witnessed one of her subjects being forced to ingest that drug. It was what led to her trying to purge all 7 of the "Deadly Sin Drugs" from her nation. "The aphrodisiac that increases the fertility of the imbiber… take too much at once and it'll ruin your mind."

"Hmm, it seems I have another "toy" to play with right now. My advice? Try and subtly inform his party members about the very real danger of their hero and love interest being stolen away from them. The rest… is up to fate." With that, he ends the communication.

There was a pause before Mirellia sighed and summoned one of her Shadows. Particularly the one in charge of Chazon. "You understand why I had you listening in?"

"Yes my lady. I'll begin preparations to inform the Spear Hero's party about the danger." With that, she vanishes.

Mirellia looks outside at the stormy night sky. "Sir Chazon… your refusal to adapt may very well carry consequences that'll mark you for the rest of your life. Even after both of Rino's kidnappings… the third time may prove to be the final time you ever see her."

Few things I want to go over now.

First is how I did the Class Ups. I went with the stat increases that I did because I didn't want to make the Class Ups of Naofumi's party less special. As such, I decided to go the hybrid route and auto-Classed Up Chazon's party members to special classes with their respective stat increases to show they are becoming more powerful than average, while still preserving how important Raphtalia and Filo's stat increases are. I'll have Fitoria give a proper explanation later. Also, Chazon's party can afford to become overspecialized in certain stats because of how many of them are working together (Rifana and Amber got major defensive upgrades to cover for Obsidian and Kardia and how squishy they are).

Secondly, the "traits" that I added alongside the Class Ups. When I was trying to research how Classing Up works, I made note of Filo's wish to pick a class that let her spew poison. However, she was unable to because of Fitoria's Crown deciding on a special class for her. That made me think that there are class-specific abilities or techniques, hence why I chose to give everyone, including Raphtalia and Filo, traits. It also would make sense due to some of the regular classes having very similar stat distributions, since different traits would make them operate differently. Even if that's not how it works in Canon, please allow me that bit of creative freedom.

Hopefully those explanations will suffice. If you guys have any questions, feel free to PM me regarding this or something else.