One Punch Man belongs to One.
Rising of The Shield Hero belongs to Aneko Yusagi.
I own neither of them.
| Thug Life |
"Okay, I guess that's all," muttered Suiryu as he took the Black Dragon Pendant from under Jabberwock's neck.
A content smile adorned the champion's face. He was so happy because he found a big prey. Although his effort to bring it down was far from challenging, the goodies he got were very fancy. Perhaps it would worth thrice the prize he got from the annual Super Fight Championship.
The martial artist ripped one of the dragon's scale and fed it into the green gem on his shield. He had just discovered such unique feature of his shield during his venture in the wood and it was very useful. So far, he had unlocked around 30 new shield forms and numerous additional functions that he could not remember all.
The martial artist still used his [Void Fist] for both attacking and defending, but sometimes using the ancient relic proved to be more practical, especially when facing pesky enemies that shot projectiles like Giant Hedgehog and Forest Spiders. With his shield, he could block any attack while launching a deadly blow.
He blocked his enemy's strike not because he was afraid of taking damage. He was invulnerable in his current level, but his shirt was not. He just realized that some items degraded easily as the owner level-up.
The moment the green sphere consumed Jabberwock's scale, a new window emerged in Suiryu's vision. It gave some information about his status and abilities if he unlocked the new form. 'Hmm… The additional stat bonus is decent, but firstly I need to unlock…' Suiryu squinted his eyes at the display before of him. '...Jabberwock Shield? Alright, let's try.'
Following what his shield had instructed, Suiryu yanked five spikes from the noble lizard. The desecration didn't stop there because he also pulled out three fangs, a claw and two more dozens of the scale. All of of them just for unlocking a new form of his shield!
After the greedy aegis sucked up all the ingredients, it morphed into a jet black round-shield with a dragon's head sculpted on its center. The green gem resided in its wide open mouth while some dark-purple and crimson lines adorned its side, giving the impression that it was a very cursed item. To add its awfulness, the stat bonus it gave was much higher compared to most of the forms in Suiryu's current possession.
Jabberwock Shield
Stat:
Attack: +5 | Magic: +34 | Phy. Resistance: +85 | Mag. Resistance: +73 | Speed: +28
Elemental Resistances:
Thunder: +96 | Fire: +124
Additional Skill:
- Possibility of enemy's instant death upon contact.
- Skill: Dragon-Slaying +
Despite its menacing ornaments it bore and scary ability it granted to its user, the shield's size was small, only around 21 inches in diameter. It looked more like a buckler than a round shield. Added with Suiryu's stature which dwarfed it really much, making its threatening appearance vanish. The said Jabberwock Shield appeared like a toy on his arm. However, he didn't care about it since he sought its benefit rather than its look.
'Huh? It has a one-hit-kill property?' mused Suiryu as he looked at his shield. 'I think this would be good for sweeping low-levels that like to swarm. Mowing down Killer Hornets and Flame Ants won't be a problem. And, man…! This thing can turn me into a dragon buster? Seriously!?'
The martial artist took some more spikes and scales from the dead Jabberwock. He took them since he felt that those things could be sold or kept for other use. He put them all into his handmade leather loot bag.
When Suiryu had collected all he needed, a refreshing breeze blew him. Together with it however, a faint sad melody made its way into his ears. He frowned, darted his gaze to his surroundings and finally found its source. He saw his "dear companion" was sobbing.
'Oh, she'scrying? Get a homesick, huh?' thought Suiryu as he slung his bag onto his shoulder. 'Well… I guess it's time to go back. But, hey…! Honestly I don't know where I am!'
Suiryu just realized that he was lost. He was too excited in his venture during those days that he forgot about the direction to the capital. That was not a problem for him since he would just enjoy to wander around. Probably he would find his way back to the capital in a week or so.
For Myne though, that was a big problem since her mind began to deteriorate. He should find civilization as soon as possible before she turned into a madwoman. Or worse, she would transform into a monster, just like people from his old world.
The martial artist sighed and went back with heavy steps to see the spoiled princess. Truly, it was her father's fault who chose her to become his companion. If he was alone, he would surely reach higher level without being troubled by this annoying drag.
After promising Myne that they would come back and got some slaps from her in return, Suiryu decided to trace his route back to the woods to find the spots where they stayed the previous nights. If he could find them, heading home would be easy. By doing so and added with the help of his Void-Shivering-Tiger dash, they managed to reach the capital in just a day.
Upon reaching the city's gate however, Myne's expression didn't change at all. She kept showing her unsightly sour face despite the successful homecoming. Some people who saw her flinched. Yet, Suiryu's nearly ever present smile came as its antidote. The contrast sight garnered various reactions from people.
Aside from their expressions which looked like scalding flame and fountain water, their dirty cloths and rather disheveled look gave them impression that they had just came back from a war. Some bloodstains on Suiryu's shirt concurred with such thought and the big leather bag on his back became the testament for their exploit.
"Is he the Shield Hero?"
"No way! I heard that he is the weakest among the Saint Heroes."
"Yeah, that coward will never have such perfect body!"
Those chattering and some harsh remarks didn't go unnoticed by the martial artist. He frowned slightly upon hearing such unpleasant comments. He didn't know what really happened during his journey, but the fact that people had regarded him as a bad guy confused him.
Suiryu deduced that someone had spread a rumor. About the perpetrator and what they gained by doing so, he hadn't had any idea yet.
Judging by people's looks however, they were as confused as he was. Most of them didn't recognize him at all despite the shield on his arm. Probably because the public remained in the dark about the heroes. That only means that there were still chances that some people might not believe the rumor. He hoped that Erhard was among these few.
As they walked while gaining confused stares and comments from people, the champion decided to break their silent walk. He was still wondering about why Myne didn't cheer up the moment they reached the capital.
"Myne, are you still mad?" asked the martial artist as he glanced at her tousled hair.
The redhead suddenly tilted her head and shot a very dangerous glare at Suiryu as her veins on her forehead bulged. "Of course! What kind of man who dare to drag a lady into a very dangerous journey!? You forced me to eat raw and awful things! You were snoring while I was trying to ward off bugs and mosquitoes…"
Myne banged her hand on the loot bag as she ranted about all the hardships she experienced. Suiryu could only sigh as people along the street were gawking at them. Actually he had expected her reaction, but he didn't think that it would be this violent.
Although he could bear her anger, people's shocked stare somewhat made his confidence shrink. When some of the bystanders said that they were like a quarreling newlywed couple, the champion cringed. 'The hell that I marry this harlot!' cried Suiryu internally as he grimaced while the princess kept slamming her hand on his innocent, bulky goodies-bag. 'What kind of child would I get if the mother's like her!?'
"… And you let that damn dragon to snatch me while you were doing your mad leap! All of that, just for this bunch of trash!? Truly, you are the worst jerk I have ever met in my life!"
The martial artist let out a defeated sigh. "Myne, haven't I said that–"
"–Hardship is the true friend of a hero! Hardship is what shapes someone to become a hero! And hardship is what makes someone to strive for the path of hero!" Myne interjected by quoting what she had heard from the Neo Hero Association S-Class Hero as she put her hands on her hips. "I'M FED UP WITH THIS! I'M OFF! FREAK!"
Suiryu hung his jaw when she fled with hurried pace. People along that street were also dumbfounded by the drama. They never thought that in the morning, they would see such very odd couple. Some of them found it as something funny, while others only thought that it was simply weird. Few others sympathized for the martial artist.
"Hey Myne, wait! You haven't taken your share…" Suiryu raised his hand hesitantly to call her.
"HELL! TAKE THOSE GARBAGE WITH YOU, MINDLESS OGRE!" Myne blurted out and turned away as her boots stomped the paved road.
'Yare yare… Though I don't like her, at least I would still let her take her share. Hope that her father won't kill me.' Suiryu mused as he looked at his angry companion. 'Well, I think I'll drop at the blacksmith and ask him everything during my day out.'
With that, the martial artist walked away as the gawkers dismissed.
The redhead headed directly towards the palace as she kept cursing the shield hero whom at least had kindly made her stay alive during that insane five days. Although she was very tired, her rage steadied her pace to reach the place where she belonged.
When she entered the gate of the palace, the guards were stunned. Her messy appearance nearly made them mistake her for a vagrant if she didn't bring her sword. Some of them immediately came to aid her while others could only stare at her. Some of these guards knew that her face was a sign that she wanted to be alone. A bad omen indeed.
"P-princess M-malty, c-can I help– Ooof…!"
A punch to the face was the reply from Myne or… Malty. She was so mad that she wanted to destroy anything on her way. Perhaps thanks to Suiryu, she also learned how to send a strong punch without ceasing her pace, although she applied it for a wrong purpose. As a result, the poor guard dropped down on the ground with bleeding nose while writhing in pain.
"If you want to help me, just tell my father that I come home!" The princess ordered without even slowing down her steps.
"Yes, Princess!" replied the guards in unison as they shuddered.
After the unwanted drama, Suiryu finally had arrived in front of Erhard's shop. A very wide smile rose on his face as he smelled burning iron. 'It seems that he's at the forge. I'll come in then.' Suiryu thought as he stepped closer to open the door.
As he entered, he looked at the display to find that nothing had really changed. He put down his bag near the counter as he sat down on a chair. There, he could hear clashing sound of hammer and anvil.
The martial artist always remembered how his grandfather told him not to bother a man who is busy in his work. Thus, he decided to wait for the armorer to show up, rather than disturbing him.
A moment later, Erhard came out. He was holding some blades he had just forged. He came out with a curious look.
"I heard the doorbell rang," muttered the blacksmith. "I wonder who's…"
"Oh, hi pop! How are you?" Suiryu greeted as he waved and gave his usual perfect smile.
"...That!" All the blades on Erhard's hands fell to the floor with audible clanks. "S-son! Where have you been!?"
Erhard turned around from his counter and ran to grab Suiryu's shoulders. A concerned and worried look was tangible on his face. He scanned the martial artist from head to toe and found the outfit he gave had rips here and there, not to mention the bloodstains.
"Easy there, pop, for I am here." The martial artist stood and let the armorer loose his hands. "Now, look at what I bring."
Erhard glanced at the big leather bag near his counter. His eyes bulged at such massive loot. Yet, there was something very important he wanted to tell to his "beloved son."
"Let's put about your loot aside. I want to tell you about a very important matter." The armorer took another chair and sat face to face with Suiryu.
Suiryu knew what Erhard wanted to discuss. It must be about the rumor.
"Okay. I guess it's about me right?" Suiryu tried to direct the talk to the core of the problem. "Then pray tell. Why people are talking ill about the Shield Hero?"
Erhard took a deep breath and let out a long sigh. "Just after you left, I heard a nasty rumor which said that you kidnapped the princess. I also heard that even the king warranted the knights to conduct a manhunt. I nearly believe it if you don't come back."
The champion really glad that Erhard was still on his side. He believed that the armorer was not a man who would take a hearsay easily like common people do.
On the other hand, Aultcray's decision only proved his suspicion that he was unwelcome from the beginning. Although he was sure about his chance to escape, such matter was not easy. It was as if the Neo Hero Association turned against him and imposed a false charge.
"Manhunt!?" Suiryu widened his eyes. "That's crazy! Do they have any proof to accuse me for such deed? And they didn't tell me that my companion was the princess."
It was true since Aultcray only said that the adventurers came from the adventurer guilds. The grouchy ruler didn't inform the martial artist in advance that Myne was his daughter. The blame fell on the king.
"Unfortunately, once the king's order comes, no one would object it. Maybe you should run, son." The blacksmith let out a dejected smile.
Suiryu pondered about the matter for a moment. The grim reality about the ruler's belligerence tnow bothered him. He didn't think that the matter would become this complicated.
Right at the moment, he was not only facing a person. His opponent was a political entity with a military force. If he should face them and plunge himself into a battle, he was still confident enough that he would come out as the victor. He had calculated that since their best knights wouldn't be any better than the four he faced in the throne room.
Some big questions regarding such action then emerged. Was it wise to fight a country? Would a hero enter an unnecessary bloodbath just to defend his own honor? How about taking Erhard's advice? Such thoughts whirled in his mind and finally, he came into a conclusion.
"No. I'll stay here and let them take me." The martial artist replied as he smiled.
"What!?" Erhard nearly yelled as he grabbed Suiryu's shoulder. "Son! Will you surrender yourself!?"
"Yes. But I'll prove to them that I am innocent."
That was the solution he would take. He would let the knights take him if they found him. He dared to do so since he planned to deny the false charge. He would use all his wits to clear his name. Such diplomatic path seemed unfit for him, but he was sure that he would win. If it didn't work, Erhard's advice would be the B-plan. And if the country chose to deal with him in an uncivilized way, violence would be his last resort.
Erhard pinched his bridge in response. "Ugh… You really like to try your luck, huh? I cannot stop you. But please, don't drag me into your matter!"
"Need not to worry, pop." Suiryu chuckled. "I promise nothing will harm your business. But if you don't mind, I need you to take care of my goods."
For an adventurer, Suiryu in fact had brought back too many loots. The big leather bag he carried was filled to the brim with items, making people think that it was spoils of war. Bringing that thing around was bothersome, so he needed someone to act as a custodian. The martial artist believed that the armorer was also good at such job since he dealt with many valuable stuffs.
"Take care of your goods!?" Erhard frowned. "Do you think that I'm a–"
Suiryu grabbed his bag and spilled the content onto the floor. "Take whichever you want, save the gold pouch and the black pendant. Consider this as a commission."
Erhard widened his eyes when he saw at the items Suiryu had brought. Most of the goods –if not all– were of high quality. Gems, animal furs, horns, fangs, and many rare drop-items were in front of him. The blacksmith nearly could not believe such display. He looked intensely at the fabulous wares as Suiryu took the gold pouch and the black pendant he got from Jabberwock.
"S-son…" Erhard stuttered as he switched his gaze from the items to Suiryu. "You didn't take these from someone, right?"
"Do you mean I stole those? Why should I do that if the forest is kind enough to give me those things?" Suiryu chuckled. "Come on, you can take more than one."
Erhard gulped. He didn't doubt Suiryu's capability in combat since he could bring back those drop-items in abundance. However, it was apparent that the monk-fighter before him didn't know at all about the value of each item. He should tell Suiryu about the rough estimation, just to inform him that he might get fooled by some vendors if he kept being like that.
"Son, truly… You don't know at all about the prices of these wares, right?" Erhard got a nod of confirmation from the monk-fighter. "And I also doubt that you know each name of those. Then, let me give you some info."
"Okay. But honestly, I won't regret if you take the most expensive one from among those." Suiryu commented as he smiled.
"Well, let's see later." Erhard smirked as he took a spherical blue crystal as big as a tennis-ball. "First, where did you get this?"
"I killed a giant black eel from a swamp, took some chunks of its stomach for my dinner and found that in it." The martial artist explained as he tapped his chin while imagining its lingering flavor. "It's meat was very tasty, you know!"
The armorer ever heard that many aquatic monsters dwelt in marshes, deep within the woods. There, adventurers could acquire rare items and gained fortunes from killing the dwellers. He was certain that the martial artist had reached this deep part of the forest.
"And do you know that the price of this crystal is tastier than its meat?" Erhard's smirk widened. "This is worth around 500 silver coins."
"Oh, wow! That's cool!" Suiryu's face showed a mild interest. "Then, which one is the most precious?"
"Heh? Are you ready for the surprise?" The armorer smiled teasingly as he took a bottle with ruby-like cork. "What if I really take this one? You said that I can have whichever I want, right?"
"Sure, because I have no doubt that I will get stuff more fabulous than that." Suiryu spoke proudly as he played his gold-coin pouch.
The champion had proved that getting such items by killing monsters was not as hard as he thought. He believed that if he explored wider areas and slew stronger monsters, he would find more valuable items.
"This panacea can be sold for 700 gold coins." Erhard continued his reply with much stressing in his words as he held the Panacea I bottle. "Because this is an all-heal potion."
Suiryu hummed for a moment. He thought about the price, but weirdly, he didn't find it as something interesting. For him, earning money from selling items was not as fun as earning it from fighting. Suiryu never had any interest to become a businessman after all. Besides, he had promised to give the armorer whichever he wanted.
"Well. Then, why don't you take it?" Suiryu asked as he shrugged his shoulders. "I don't mind if you have it."
Erhard's jaw dropped. His mind clogged due to how ridiculous this young man before him. In a place where people toiled much to get meager pieces of copper, this guy just tossed a great deal of fortune as if it was a small gift! It only made the armorer think that Suiryu probably came from an extravagantly rich nobility with unimaginable amount of wealth.
"O… Oi, son! Have you lost your mind!?" The blacksmith nearly yelled. "Are you going to give this to me!?"
"Why not? I've promised you that you can take anything you like. So, just take it. And we're friends, are we not?" Suiryu inquired as he smiled.
The blacksmith gasped. He never thought that Suiryu had put so much trust towards him despite their brief meetings. He nearly could not utter a word for his mind was unable to find any reason behind the monk-fighter's logic. However, to know that the young man regarded him as close friend made him delighted beyond words. Perhaps Suiryu also regarded him as a father. It made him proud and embarrassed at the same time.
"Ugh, hehehe… Well…" Erhard scratched the back of his bald head as he tittered. "I'll take that as a compliment. Yet…"
"Yet?" asked Suiryu as he raised his brow while his smile didn't waver at all.
"I don't think that I might use that. So, here. It's yours." Erhard threw the bottle to Suiryu which he caught it with his free hand. "I guess I'll take that Swamp Eel gem crystal and Gagocco Bird Latium."
"Sure. Feel free to take them, pop." The champion handed the items to the armorer.
"Besides, you are the Shield Hero. One day, you will really need that panacea." Erhard added as he took the goods from Suiryu.
Suiryu hummed as he looked at the bottle. A display which informed about its use appeared. Erhard was right since its benefits was priceless. He would really need such item in the future.
So far, he was so immersed to improve his fighting capability that he almost neglected the importance of knowledge about items and collectibles. He was aware about that and it might danger him. Thus, he should bother the good blacksmith to give him everything he needed to know.
Erhard in response gave him a lecture on items and collectibles for the next hours. The blacksmith gladly explained many useful information about them, how to collect, store, maintain, sell and even scrap them. Eagerly, the martial artist absorbed all the explanation from the tutor. When Erhard finished his class, it was already lunchtime.
"Well… I guess that is all which I can say. The rest, you will find it by yourself." The armorer said as he rose from his chair. "Oh, it's midday already! Wanna have lunch with me?"
"Sounds great." Suiryu remarked as he shoved some items into his loot bag and stood from his place. "But firstly, can I borrow your bathroom?"
The hurried travel to return the princess didn't let the martial artist to take a dip at the creek in the wood. His body became crusty and his messy look made him stand out when he walked at the street. He really needed to wash himself before he went out again.
"Oh, go on." Erhard chuckled as he came back to the counter to gather his blades. "Feel free to use it. I'll also prepare some new clothes for you. This way."
"Thanks a lot, pop." The martial artist replied as he strode behind the armorer.
"…And that was what happened." Malty who had changed into her princess gown concluded her story with teary eyes as Aultcray looked at her, eyes widened while his hands clenched.
For a father who really loved his daughter, it was very disheartening to know that his daughter was put into a very grave danger. Although for most adventurers Suiryu's journey would be regarded as unconventional, for a princess, that was downright murderous. Moreover, the man who went out with his daughter was his enemy. It made Aultcray very furious.
"Damn that shield!" Aultcray cursed as he slammed his hand onto the round table.
Some ministers and the head of the Church of Three Heroes were present in that room as well. The meeting was assembled hastily to hear Malty's witness about her absence during that five days. It also served as a mean to determine the next course of action regarding the Shield Hero.
Most of the audience put concerned looks when they heard about the princess's story. They were relieved that she was still sound, but her story about the shield hero seemed far-fetched. Her witness about the current shield hero's strength totally contradicted the legend. The explanation only garnered some puzzled looks from the gentlemen present in the room. One of them decided to word out his doubt.
"With all due respect, Princess Malty, would you care to elaborate about what the Shield Hero did during the journey?" The sly-smiled minister paused for a moment to think about his next line. "What I mean is, how he faced some dangers you mentioned earlier."
Previously, the redhead only ranted about how Suiryu dragged her into the wild life. She only gave some vague explanations related to how he killed some beasts. Basically, she only wanted to emphasize about her suffering during her unwilling venture. However, she missed some stressing point of events which might support her argument. At this point, her words were baseless.
When the question from the minister was addressed to her, her hands suddenly shook. Her memory about how the inheritor of the [Void Fist] technique fared during those days reemerged. She was trembling at how Suiryu slew forest dwellers. And his daily regimen was no less scarier.
"W-wolf… Yes… He killed wolves, bears and many… many beasts. Each with single kick!" Malty started her monologue as her lips quivered.
The ministers glanced at each others when they saw such response. They didn't know that the emotion she endured would result in such unexpected form of behavior. She looked clearly traumatized for recalling her horrifying experience with the hero. Despite how painful it was for her, they needed more explanation. And it seemed that she was going to continue her story. Just perfect.
Unfortunately, her testimony became even more bizarre. People could assume that Suiryu was some sort of monk-fighter, but such feats was never heard of. Some of these gentlemen who spent their youth as adventurers knew that even a gold-plate monk-fighter would still need to struggle to slay a forest beast. Unless he was a master of very lethal martial arts styles.
As far as they knew, there was only one person who was well-known as a prominent martial artist. She was a citizen of Melromarc who settled in a village, away from the capital. In her younger days as a pro adventurer, she had contributed so much during the war against Siltvelt, Melromarc's enemy until recent days.
"And… Oh… He obliterated a rock hill as large as this chamber with his punches!" Malty even demonstrated Suiryu's [Void Sky Dragon Fist] by thrusting her fists at the table in front of her.
Now, she really looked like a little child who told her parents about her imaginary friends. Her action only gained incredulous stares from the ministers. Aultcray who knew all too well about her behavior frowned. The idea that a guy could shatter a rock hill was foolish. Among the people however, only the head of the Church of Three Heroes who smiled sagely. He believed that her witness held some degrees of truth.
"And he killed a dragon!" The princess nearly let out a hysterical scream when she uttered the term for the flying lizard. "I swear! He slew it with a series of kick! HE IS A LITERAL MONSTER!"
Among the revelations about Suiryu, perhaps his ability to kill Jabberwock was the thing which shook Malty to her core. A man who could bring down a dragon, alone, was really scary. And without any weapon? People might think that such person was a real monster. Those who saw how he killed Jabberwock probably would go insane. The princess, was no less.
Although that seemed to make her attestation far more illogical than before, the way she expressed it was convincing. That news should not be responded with a shrug. A man who could slay a dragon –no matter how ridiculous it was– must be a serious matter. What they needed now was a proof.
As Malty ceased her speech to catch her breath while tears flowed down her cheeks, the gentlemen were discussing about how they should acquire the proof. They didn't dare to ask the princess. Fortunately, her father who heard their mutterings gave a furtive nod to the men, signaling that he would do the job.
"Oh, dear Malty… Please, put a hold on yourself. I am also aware about how perilous your journey was. As your father, I also felt the pain you suffered." Aultcray said as he came to ease his beloved daughter. "Now, you are sheltered under this strong palace. There is nothing to fear anymore. Most of all, you come back safely without any wound."
Despite being traumatized, no physical injury was present on her being. The martial artist had indeed taken a good care of her. Although she got some mosquito bites and bumpy rides, at least she didn't die of hunger.
"And to pay for the pain imposed upon you by that demon, would you like to enlighten us about any evidence you might bring to us, oh my daughter?" The king asked about the main point as he glanced at the gentlemen.
The redhead sniffed as she let parts of his father's sweet words sank into his mind. For a moment, she tried to process them and her hazy mind caught what her father inquired.
"Father… Do you mean, you need proof?" She asked between her sniffs to confirm what he had said.
"Yes, dear Malty. Anything." Aultcray replied with a pleading tone.
She put a thoughtful look for a moment. She indeed missed her chance to bring any evidence when the martial artist kindly offered her to take her share of loot. Perhaps it was her big mistake. She thought hard to find any substitute. The answer was her leather armor since it had some scratch marks from Jaberwock's claw. Not a good evidence, but at least it could confirm that she really encountered a dragon. With appraisal magic as a forensic procedure, that should do the job.
"My leather armor… Yes… My leather armor!" said the princess as she looked frantically to her sides.
"Guards! Bring her leather armor here!" Aultcray immediately ordered the knights in that room to retrieve Malty's brown armor.
A moment later, the guards came back with the said item. Their faces looked very strained for unknown reason. When they presented the stuff on the table with all reverence they could muster, the gentlemen finally knew the reason. The protective gear smelled really bad.
Some of the ministers sniffed and gagged as the odor stabbed their nostrils while Aultcray pinched his nose. The owner of the armor in response could only cringe in total embarrassment. It couldn't be helped since they demanded an evidence.
Truth be told, during those five days with the martial artist, Malty always refused to take a bath at the creek. Whenever he told her to clean herself, she always shook her head. As a result, although she was a princess, her outfit became stinky. Probably rivaling those which belonged to a beggar.
Halfheartedly, some of the ministers examined the leather gear. The moment they used their appraisal magic to make a thorough check, they could not contain their shock. The scratches indeed belonged to dragon's claw. What still puzzled them however was how the dragon could grab the princess.
"Dear Malty, you did mention that he slew the dragon." Aultcray said as he looked at his ministers who kept examining the stinky armor. "But how come the dragon could lay its claws on you?"
The redhead bit her lip. It was the most humiliating moment during her adventure with Suiryu. She fixed her gaze at her armor as she recalled how Jabberwock snatched her.
"It was his fault." Malty answered as she tried to contain her rage. "He didn't notice that a dragon had caught me until some moment. However…"
There was a long pause. Everyone was waiting for her next sentences as she gained her courage to utter the fact that infuriated her to no end.
"He then came to save me and killed the beast. But all of it was just because he wanted to take the loot!"
That was true. Suiryu chased Jabberwock because its drop-items. Yet, one should not deny that he also saved the princess before he took the prize. That means that he still had concern for his companion.
Nevertheless, the way the ungrateful princess explained about his savior's merit was intended to stir people's hate towards him. She was aware that she had messed up her initial plan, but she still believed that people might do her favor and make him suffer.
For the gentlemen, this revelation on the other hand also brought some questions about the shield hero. Questions regarding his true identity and his strength. Above all else, should they proceed with the plan to banish him?
"I… I swear! I will really crush that demon with my own hand!" Aultcray swore as he slammed his hand onto the table as the ministers nodded in response.
Malty was somewhat satisfied at how these people didn't lose their courage to stick with the plan. However, she could not think any better plan since her mind was still too battered due to the insane journey. She would just let these people deal with the matter for the time being since. She wanted to take a rest.
"I should warn you. He is a monster! So father, and dear gentlemen…" The redhead drew a deep breath afterwards. "I would not have any objection on your conduct, but be well prepared. For now, the choice is ultimately yours."
The pontifex of the Church of Three Saint Heroes smiled really wide in response. Among the audiences, he was the man who had prepared many plans up his sleeve. He joined this coven for many reasons, especially political one. The top priority at this time was to vanquish the shield hero.
"Be at ease, Princess Malty, for this humble servant of God have prepared for this. We assure you that we will prevail." The pontifex said as his spectacles glowed under the ray of the sun.
"Thank you. We would really appreciate your hard efforts, Pontifex Balmus." Malty's lips curled up as she bowed. "For now, please, let me excuse myself."
"Dear Malty, we would like to thank you for your assistance. For now, rest well and leave the matter to us." The king said reassuringly. "In the name of justice, that demon will pay for your suffering. We will not fail!"
"Thank you, Father."
Just around three hours after Suiryu bade his farewell to Erhard and strolled around the city, some garrisons spotted him. He was apprehended and brought forcefully to the palace. He just thought about that and it went as he planned. He just complied and didn't show any struggle.
Unfortunately, some of these guards confiscated his loot bag. They only said that it was a violation of palace rule, though in reality, they just really wanted to rob him. The martial artist didn't protest and let them take it. After all, he had Erhard kept his valuables. As of his gold pouch and pendant, he concealed them nicely under his shield. Basically, his bag's content was nothing but some low quality furs.
After that shenanigans along the entrance, the knights brought him directly to the throne room. Like a VIP – or rather a very dangerous inmate, around 20 guards were assigned to escort him.
The moment he entered the room, the atmosphere was really tense. Everyone gave the stink-eye at him, noblemen and the three heroes as well. Among these people however, he didn't see the redhead.
"So, it was you after all." Ren glared at the martial artist as he crossed his arms. "Much to be expected from a cheater."
"Indeed. A useless shielder like you is nothing but an eyesore!" Itsuki opened his speech with an insult. "Detestable!"
"What do you mean by this, senpai!?" Motoyasu inquired with same contempt in his tone as he poised his spear at Suiryu. "Explain!"
Still being surrounded by the guards, the champion kept silent as he maintained his cool. He had expected those reactions, yet the feeling was somewhat annoying.
'Foolish kids! What did you get in school? Math? Science?' Suiryu mocked the sword and bow heroes internally as he took a glance at them. 'Don't you also learn that your classmates like to trick you? Don't you know that your teachers also like to make fun of you? Well… Kids these days. They learn nothing.'
The champion tried his best to keep his composure by focusing his face forward, to the man who looked at him with utmost resentment, Aultcray Melromarc The 32nd. Soon enough, a court was going to be held with the ruler of the Melromarc as the judge. As the defendant, Suiryu had prepared his plea.
"You have kidnapped my daughter!" Aultcray started the trial with the initial accusation.
"I didn't. What kind of kidnapper who returns the person he kidnaps without any real reason? Only an idiot who will kidnap someone without gaining any benefit. Be it is wealth or something else." Suiryu argued nonchalantly as he put a neutral expression. "Besides, you didn't tell me that she is your daughter. And you were the one who chose her to become my companion in the first place. With all due respect, Your Highness, the blame actually falls on you."
Aultcray's face became red as if fire was burning inside it. How the champion argued had pulled his nerve. Moreover, the way the shielder countered him and reverse the blame made him very furious. Although the reason was logical, his hate towards the shield hero wouldn't let him admit it.
On the balcony, the noblemen began to murmur. They didn't expect that the shield hero would argue the king. Some of them at the moment also began to question about the accusation. However, they didn't dare to word it since they were bound to the royal family.
Meanwhile, the three heroes who joined the trial were also shocked. Suiryu's argument was right and the king only gave a blind accusation towards him. However, that was still not enough to prove the true motive of his act.
"You bring her to harm! You, BEAST!" The ruler yelled as he pointed at Suiryu.
"I don't deny that," replied the monk-fighter as he smiled. "But aren't adventurers always facing harm along their way? And by choosing your daughter to become my companion, doesn't it mean that you have fed her to a beast? That, if you already know that I am a beast."
All the blood in Aultcray's body flooded his head. Now, he looked as if he was the utter fool. The shielder had turned him into the corner.
"Then Your Highness, if I may ask, is there any evidence to support the notion that I am guilty?" The champion inquired as he let a smile of victory crept onto his face. "Beside that, you should be grateful that I still keep her intact. I think you should also thank me for saving her from a dragon."
The ruler was utterly offended. The shielder had humiliated him in front of the noblemen, knights and the Three Saint Heroes as well. At this point, such insolence would be answered with death. Yet, he still try to hold his urge to eliminate the shield hero. He thought that a threat would be enough to scare the man.
"GUARDS!"
Five guards circled around Suiryu and pointed their tridents at him. He was aware that finally, Aultcray decided to frighten him. 'Nice. Maybe playing along and pretending to be scared is enough,' thought the champion as he looked at the guards. 'Then I will… Okay, let's see later.'
For a moment, the martial artist was seen facing the floor. People might think that he was ashamed for his deeds. Or maybe frightened to face the death. But suddenly, he burst into laughter, shocking everyone present. His laughter made some people cold-sweated.
"HAHAHA… Isn't that nice! You people call me here to deal with monsters. I just get started to do the job and now you accuse me of kidnapping the princess!? Without any proof!?"
The heroes who looked at him with wide-eyes only thought that Suiryu had lost his sanity. How he humiliated the king was unnerving and maddening as well. They could not think clearly anymore as rage was welling up in their mind.
"Cheater! You're just a developer in disguise! We know about that from the start!" Ren directed his wrath at the champion.
"Yeah… Or worst, you're a hacker who pretend to be a player like us! Scumbag!" Itsuki added with another insulting remark.
"If I am the developer of this game, I will surely choose to become a god. Why should I be bothered to play with you?" The martial artist gave his reason with a shrug.
The champion in a blink had come out from the surrounding guards and started to walk around the heroes as he became the center of attention. He decided to knock some senses on the boys, if they still had some.
"If this is a game, how can you feel fatigue, hunger and pain?" Suiryu asked as he moved behind Ren. "And… How can you feel lethargic in the morning if this is a game? A lazy player? Is that possible?"
"If this is a game, can you see how your own party members reacted to your order? Have you ever found a game where your party whimpered when you order them to attack?" Suiryu strode to Itsuki's side. "Or, is it possible the monsters you fought earlier in the terrain fled without any explanation?"
Ren and Itsuki widened their eyes as they thought about Suiryu's piercing questions. The environment they were in was indeed game-like but it was also a reality at the same time. The two of them found too much striking oddities if this was a game. During their exploration, they felt everything around them was genuine.
Logically, there was no way this kind of technology which could reproduce reality existed in their respective worlds. And the fact that they were already dead only added an eerie evidence that they were in some kind of alternate reality. Or probably an odd form of afterlife.
"And if this is a game, have you found enjoyment in talking with people? Can you feel the fresh air around you as well as this… Sensation?" Suiryu bit Motoyasu's ear, making the spear hero's face turned red as he felt the overwhelming "sensation."
All the three came into realization that they might not refute Suiryu. They thought very hard but couldn't bring any reason to argue the champion. The martial artist was right. The environment was real. And it seemed that he was not bluffing. His arguments were convincing.
Despite his logical statements, Suiryu's fantastic feats still left a big question for the other heroes. It only made them go back to the premise that he was a cheater. If only they knew about his world, perhaps the story would be different.
"But that still doesn't explain why you can beat the knights in an instant." Ren stated as he frowned at the champion.
Suiryu was aware about that. His arguments was not enough to convince the boys. He could not bring any good evidence either about his crazy world. However, he didn't care anymore. It was up to them whether they would believe him or not.
"Should I repeat it, Ren-kun? The more I explain about the world I come from, the more you won't believe it." Suiryu stopped his pace in front of Aultcray as he crossed his arms. "And I say that, merely because I just want to share my story like what you asked. You may believe it, or not."
"GUARDS!" shouted Aultcray.
The ruler of Melromarc had had enough of the champion's lecturing. His face was red with tint of homicidal wrath. He really wanted to crush Suiryu. He thought that these guards could execute the martial artist on the spot.
Once again, the martial artist was surrounded by the fully armored knights. Ten men were pointing their tridents at his neck. Yet, he wasn't scared in the slightest, making some of the guard's legs tremble. When they looked at his figure, there was an engulfing dark aura which could only be described as…
ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ...
MENACING...
ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ... ゴ...
The noblemen were shocked and terrified to see that the hero of shield stood on his place, unmoved despite his neck being mere inches from blades. Aultcray's rage could not go higher anymore at this point.
"Shield! Stop your nonsense! You are here not to speak! Your preaching–"
Aultcray's words were cut when everyone saw all the tridents held by the guards were broken with audible clanks. Before audiences could even react, they heard a familiar sound of an arrow being launched from a bow. When they looked at Aultcray, just an inch above his head, the makeshift arrow settled there. Turned out, Suiryu tossed some of the trident's blades he broke to scare Aultcray.
The other heroes could do nothing to stop their fellow. Their jaws dropped as they stared at the transpiring event. The hero of the shield was out of their reach, punishing the man who had made a false charge.
"Impossible…" Aultcray uttered as he looked at the sharp edges on his head.
Aultcray was going to utter another words, but he stopped when he heard the noblemen gasped at an unexpected sight. Suiryu was not on his place anymore. Some people then screamed when they saw the champion had sat on the queen's throne, crossed-legged. The moment Aultcray moved his head to his left, he saw the shield hero had claimed his wife's throne while holding a crown. The king's hand spontaneously reached his head and to his horror, it was indeed his royal headgear.
"Are you searching for… this?" Suiryu tilted his head slowly to face terrified Aultcray as he started to spin the crown with his index finger in a playful manner.
"S-S-S-SHIELD!" Aultcray's hands clenched the armrests of his throne.
"Your Highness, I actually never have any intention to vex you. But if you were in my position, to become a man who is called to do some job, are you going to do nothing when your employer blame you for something you never did?" Suiryu asked as he spun the crown.
Terrified but furious at the same time, Aultcray could only clench his jaw. He never thought that the champion would go until this far. Never in his life he found someone who could put him in this awful situation.
Now, he realized what his beloved daughter had said about the shield hero. This shield here was a literal monster. And it seemed that the Church of The Three Saint Heroes could not give him a helping hand at the moment. It was only a matter of time until this shield hero took a step further. Either he let out his rage and doom Melromarc or he left with hatred while preparing future revenge.
"Surely, you will defend yourself from such accusation, right? And thanks for reminding me. I've talked too much." Suiryu rose from the queen's throne. "Alright. No time to waste. There are people crying out there. As a hero, I cannot leave them."
Suiryu walked casually towards the exit as everyone stared at him in horror. People realized that Melromarc had enticed a disaster by treating the shield hero unjustly. Now, only God who could grant salvation from any harm which might come from the enraged shield hero. As Suiryu passed, the noblemen were muttering their prayer in the hope that the man wouldn't unleash his rage at the moment.
However, Ren and Itsuki glared dagger at Suiryu. They swore that one day, they would kill the man they deemed as a filthy cheater. Being gamer, they would only regard a player like Suiryu as a trash for the rest of their life. And his insolence towards the ruler who had summoned them was totally unforgivable. As their hateful gaze was flared at the martial artist, the sword and the bow heroes had vowed to beat him.
Motoyasu on the other hand didn't share such hostility. He didn't know why, but he thought that Suiryu had his own reason for betraying the king. When Suiryu was mid way through the red carpet, the spear-guy dared himself to halt the man he still regarded as his senior.
"S-senpai..." Motoyasu grabbed Suiryu's arm.
To his surprise, Suiryu looked back and gave him a very genuine smile. It made Motoyasu froze.
"Before I leave, I've a piece of advice for you, Motoyasu-kun…" Suiryu said as Motoyasu was still holding his arm. "Be a free guy and don't let the girls take your wheel. They're sweet, but if you're not aware, you might get sick. And stick with your training, okay."
Suiryu winked and gently let loose his arm from Motoyasu's grip. The martial artist left the baffled audiences like there was nothing happened. Yet, there was still one thing that might make Aultcray explode.
"SHIELD!" Aultcray yelled. "Curse upon your soul! How dare you grab the sacred talisman of Melromarc with your vile hands!"
"Oh, do you mean this?" Suiryu raised the crown he pilfered from Aultcray as he grinned. "I'm so sorry, Your Majesty. But I need this to cover my travel expenses. Besides, some of your soldiers robbed me when they brought me here."
Suiryu said with a rather mocking tone. Aultcray could only grit his teeth at the endless impudence the champion could dish out.
"If you would kindly return my belongings before the next Wave comes, I promise to give this back to you. Please, have a mercy upon this cursed soul. Farewell."
"SHIELD… SHIELD! CURSED YOU…!"
The shield hero walked away as he pushed the double door. Aultcray in response slammed his fist on the armrest. It was so frustrating and he was on the end of his wits.
He thought that he should really burn the head priest on stake for summoning a wicked creature into his dominion. Aside from rage and punishment, his last hope was the archbishop who had a meticulous plan in store to hunt down the shield hero. Or so he thought.
Once again, Suiryu was free from Aultcray. He left the palace without any burden. After all, he was not guilty. Whether they would believe him and let him free or prosecute him, it was up to them. The moment he went out from the castle, he had prepared for the worst.
Despite his status as a criminal, he could roam the streets freely without anyone notice his identity. It was weird, but it was because he concealed his shield under his cape – a green cape he got from Erhard after they had a joyful lunch. Now, Suiryu was certain that the legendary weapon was what made people recognize each hero. By hiding it, he could slip anonymously.
Being a nobody was good for the time being, but that would also bring another major implications in the long run. If he kept maintaining his hidden profile, there would be chances that his merit as a hero wouldn't be regarded at all. Instead, the other hero would rob the credit. And it seemed that the Kingdom of Melromarc would bolster their action while popularizing them.
As of himself, the kingdom would push him to the side and stamp him as a fugitive. For the champion, that sounds like working like an S-Class but treated as a monster.
If that was not bad enough, there were also possibilities that the kingdom might put a bounty for his head. Not that he was scared, but it might hinder his progress severely while bloodying his own hand.
At that point, any attempt to secure his image as a nice guy was nearly impossible, unless he gained support from country other than Melromarc. Getting a backup from a legitimate and established political power seemed promising. However, such move might also ignite an unnecessary armed conflict. Worst, both countries would use the power of heroes for their favor in the political bloodshed.
Thinking about such complicated thing in the end didn't yield a solution. The martial artist finally decided to left the matter for tomorrow. Probably, he would find some nice ideas by heading out from the capital. He believed that the nature might provide him with some better solutions.
'Okay, I'll retreat to the forest for now. I'll spend my night there.' Suiryu mused as he passed a settlement complex during that dusk. 'Maybe I can get a way out for this matter while hunting some animals. I think maintaining a profile like a C-Class hero is not bad. Hope that the good smith is okay. I'll visit him whenever I can.'
On a night with a light rain, a horse-drawn carriage was running slowly on a dirt road. Its driver who dressed in knight's attire yanked the reins of his horse lazily. The horse looked strained when it pulled the carriage behind it which was not a normal one. It was a carriage for transporting slave.
From his seat, the driver heard faint sound of coughing. It bothered him too much, as annoying as the job he was doing.
"Hey, you two! Silence!" The driver said harshly as he slammed his hand onto the carriage wall. "You're so noisy! Filthy slave!"
The people inside winced upon hearing the warning. They could do nothing but comply. They huddled together near the edge of the space in fear, for their fate had been sealed.
Their body and their soul had taken too much pain from so many mistreatment, albeit their young age. On that land where they lived, people regarded them as abominations, just because they were demi-human. People's cruelty towards them knows no bound that they were hunted, maimed, massacred and enslaved.
As of the passengers of the carriage, they were being transported to a slave-merchant in the capital. The first was a female demi-human who possessed raccoon ears, fluffy tail, brown hair and a pair of tea-red eyes. The other was her friend who had weasel ears, a cat-like tail, light-brown hair, and yellow eyes. Scars and bumps adorned their child figures, result of torture. They looked malnourished to the point that the weasel-girl was very sick.
As the carriage sped, the raccoon-girl let her lap to become a cushion for her friend's head. It seemed that only her who could give her friend a consolation amid her illness.
"Raphtalia… Please, stay by my side…" the weasel-girl begged with a very weak voice as she was holding her friend's hand.
"I won't leave you, Rifana." The faithful companion whispered to the other's ear as she held her hand tighter while caressing her head. "No matter what happens, I might not leave you."
"Thank you…" Rifana replied as she closed her eyes.
Despite in their grievous state, both of them still stored a very faint hope in their heart that one day, a savior would free them from suffering. There was still a wish that a hero would emerge to end their misery.
"Raphtalia… Do you still believe that the Shield Hero will save us?" Rifana asked as she inhaled a heavy breath due to her fever.
Raphtalia smiled despite her pain she had to endure. Her faith towards the hero who always be told by her late parents as a patron of the demi-humans never waned. Such question only strengthened her faith towards the hero.
"Yes. I still believe in him. He will…" replied Raphtalia between her cough. "Save us."
"I see… I believe so," said Rifana as her blurry vision wandered to the metal bars which served as the door of the carriage. "I do hope he will bring us back to our village."
"Yes. So do I…" Raphtalia said as she looked at the road behind the speeding carriage.
When the raccoon-girl stared towards the outside of the cart, she caught a glimpse of a mysterious figure who stood under a tree, on the side of the road. She then shook her head as she shrug her thought about the figure. Ghost never exists and probably she just mistook a stump for man.
To her surprise, the carriage took a rather abrupt stop. Raphtalia listened carefully and heard sounds of steps. Possibly someone stopped their travel. Soon after, both of the passengers heard a voice of a man.
"Good evening, sir." A mysterious man greeted the driver. "May I ask you about what you are bringing?"
"Huh!?" The voice of the driver hinted an utter irritation. "Are you a country bumpkin!? Everyone from a newborn baby to an old dying man knows that this is for carrying slaves! IDIOT!"
There was a short silence and suddenly, the stranger laughed. The passengers then heard some swearing from the driver as the stranger began to cease his chuckle.
"Slaves...? Then if they are slaves, they are for sale, right?" asked the stranger without any tinge of anger despite getting some ill-talk from the driver.
"Yeah! Then so what!? Are you going to buy them, vagrant!?"
Both Raphtalia and Rifana widened their eyes. It seemed that an unexpected thing had come. A feeling of dread suddenly washed them for they feared that the stranger was another cruel man or worse. Judging by how the driver scoffed at him, that was a very bad omen.
"If I will, how much would they cost?" The stranger inquired calmly.
"What if I say that they are 300 silver coins. I am sure a beggar like you– Ohohoho… Very well, good Sir. I apologize for my impudence earlier. Truly, your appearance did deceive me. Then take a good look at the slaves. I promise you that they are of best quality."
It was certain that the stranger paid the driver immediately. The passengers heard some clinks of coins as the transaction had settled.
The sudden change of demeanor only proved that the driver was an utter crook. A corrupt soldier who would sell anything just to gain a momentary fortune.
Raphtalia and Rifana cowered in fear as they heard sounds of steps on the muddy road came closer toward the metal-bar door. As their eyes fixed towards the outside, a figure with giant stature came into their sight. Behind him, was the damn driver.
As they looked outside, they could see that the stranger was indeed looked like a wanderer. A tall wanderer who wore a dark-green cape. Aside from his hulking body, his most striking feature was his face.
Despite the darkness of that night, their animal trait allowed them to see the face of the stranger. He looked young and filled with energy. His blue eyes were mesmerizing and a smile seemed to always be present on his face. For both of the little demi-humans, his smile was soothing.
Raphtalia and Rifana didn't sense any malice from the man. The fur on their tail didn't stand like when they felt any danger. Their fear dissolved and replaced by awe towards the stranger. It was as if the man's appearance alone had alleviated their pain.
On the other hand, the stranger's face suddenly showed an expression of utter shock upon seeing the passenger's dismal state. For a moment, his expression was also filled with worry and concern. It seemed as if he didn't believe what he was seeing.
"So, what do you think, good Sir?" asked the driver as he took out the key to unlock the door.
"I can say nothing," replied the stranger as he was still staring at the perplexed passengers.
When the door was opened, the man hunched and peeked into the carriage. His face showed so much pity towards the demi-humans.
"Are you two okay? Please, let me help you." The stranger said as he offered his hand.
Reluctantly, Raphtalia took his hand as she helped Rifana to stand. Before they could even move however, the crooked driver suddenly drew his sword to slash the stranger from behind. Raphtalia widened her eyes as she saw the blade was making its way towards the man's shoulder, but…
"… I see. So, knight of Melromarc is corrupted to its lowest rank. No wonder that His Majesty decided to summon the Saint Heroes." The man stated calmly as he clipped the blade using his index and middle fingers of his left hand. "I know from the beginning that you just want to mug me."
"I-i-impossible…" muttered the corrupt knight in horror.
"Hoh? How about this?" The stranger asked as he slowly bent the blade with his two fingers until it broke.
Raphtalia who was still standing while holding Rifana could only blink. Rifana's ears twitched when she heard the sound of broken metal. That was how they could react until the man gently helped them to descend from the cart.
The stranger turned towards the terrified driver as the little demi-humans stared at them. They expected some ugly outcome as the mysterious man came closer to the knight and grabbed him by his neck, single-handedly.
"Please… Please… Forgive me…" The driver begged as the man raised him. "I… I… I'll return the money if you want. Please… Have mercy on me, Good Sir…!"
"Well~ That's a good offer." The stranger raised his shoulders. "Since you said it, then, let me take it back."
The crooked driver reluctantly returned the three gold coins he got earlier. In return, the stranger without any warning tossed him into the carriage. He slammed so hard onto the wooden wall, startling the horse. He was knocked out cold. The man then quickly took the key and locked the barred-door, caging the corrupt knight inside.
That event was unsettling for both Raphtalia and Rifana who could only stare from the side. However, the stranger for them looked more like a hero than a highwayman. Was he their savior? For the moment, they could not think for the answer.
"Well, young ladies," spoke the man politely as he looked at Raphtalia and Rifana. "I am so sorry to keep you wait. Now, let me help you."
The man came towards the two demi-humans and held each of them in his arm. He used his cape to shelter them from the rain on that night. He treated them as if they were his own daughters. He walked towards the wood as the two settled in his clutch.
As he walked, both demi-humans felt the warmth from the man. It made them comfortable, although he was a stranger. Rifana who felt secured fell asleep despite her fever while Raphtalia was wondering about the man who took them.
"S-sir," asked Raphtalia as she tucked the man's cape. "Actually who are you?"
"Me? Hmm… I am just a wandering mercenary." The man replied with a very soft tone as his giant steps brought them deeper into the forest.
"But why you saved us?" Raphtalia inquired as he was still questioning about his true identity who felt familiar in some sense.
"I saw you two were treated badly. What kind human I would be if I don't care for others." The man replied with a tinge of sadness in his tone. "Rest assured. You are save, now."
The raccoon-girl widened her eyes. She never thought that there was a man who would willingly save them. She was grateful that this stranger came to help them out from their utmost peril. Although he had not introduced himself, his kindness was enough to grant her a sense of safety.
"Thank you…" Raphtalia thanked the man weakly as she put her head against the man's upper arm.
Author's Note
Won fabulous prizes, got chummier with the good guy, humiliated the king, gave an ear-bite for a fellow dude, hit a guy and snatched some lolies? I only hope that it wouldn't be an OOC. XD
Stinky b***h, child of trash. Well, yeah. That idea jumped into my mind after I think about how she would fare in the wild. I guess such kind of princess would prefer to become dirty, rather than taking a dip at the forest, unlike the martial artist who kept self-hygiene.
Why it must be Rifana? Isn't Raphtalia enough?
My answer is NO. Because as we've seen, the martial artist always grab two lasses along his way, WHENEVER HE GOES OUT! So instead of making another OC, I decided to bring the weasel into life.
At first, I nearly decided to pair him with Eclair Saeotto (or whatever her name is) and make Raphtalia to act as their step-daughter. BUT… I think that kind of relationship won't work! Plus, Eclair hasn't appeared in the anime, so I don't know the full portrayal of her character. In the end, this idea is tossed away.
Perhaps after this, I'll make the two to become his disciples –who would inherit some of his techniques. The absence of their slave crest would slow down their growth, but as a result, they would become naturally strong. Coupled by Suiryu's intensive training which makes Malty go insane, they'll become the fiercest beast-duo. An arduous task for our monk-fighter indeed, but I believe he can manage.
I guess that's all for now. For Motoyasu… No Yaoi, okay. The others, let's see later.
Corrections, suggestions, comments and constructive ideas are welcomed.
And… sorry for making you wait. This chapter takes long time because there were so many plots arose in my mind. Ranging from goblin-slaying quest to dungeon-clearing. And all of them were finally scrapped.
Hope you enjoy my story, my Dear Readers and… rejoice for you who have been freed from lock-down time! See you next time. ;-)