Disclaimer: I own neither Rising of the Shield Hero or the Yakuza series
Race for Lute Village
"... You're kidding me."
Kiryu smirked as he watched Naofumi and Raphtalia's reactions. He took the time to explain his arrival in this world. The summoning, the fight with the bandits and his training. Being able to speak openly about it with someone other than Julius and Melonie was a nice change of pace. It made him realize just how odd, if a bit funny, his time in this world had been so far.
"No. It's all true." Kiryu reaffirmed, sloshing his mug back and forth.
"Amazing… to think he's from another world like you, Master Naofumi…" Raphtalia mumbled, her eyes shining with curiosity. "I wonder if you two could have met sometime in the past!"
"I doubt it. It's not likely we're from the same world." Naofumi said, this time causing Kiryu to raise a brow.
"What exactly do you mean by that?" He asked.
"Tell me, who was the prime minister of Japan where you're from?" Naofumi asked.
"... Shinzo Abe."
"Yup. Looks like we're not from the same world." Naofumi nodded, causing Kiryu to widen his eyes. "When I first came here, me and the other idiot heroes started to compare details about our worlds. Like who was on the thousand yen bill and who was prime minister. It turns out that all four of us came from different worlds. Looks like you're the same."
Kiryu's nose wrinkled, looking forward in thought. "I didn't think of that kind of thing being a possibility… I guess I still have more to learn about this place. But then how'd you recognize the song?"
"It seems like certain things remain the same between worlds. Even if the song is in both worlds though, it could be written by different people." Naofumi explained, causing Kiryu to nod.
"I see… that's a bit to wrap my head around, but I think I get it." Kiryu sighed, rubbing his forehead before smirking. "Still… it is kind of funny that the thing that exposed me was singing a song."
"Yeah, funny how things turned out." Naofumi returned the smirk. "Still, you're a lot different than the rest of us. I was just a shut-in with limited game knowledge while the other idiots were actual gamers before coming here. That said, from the start you knew how to fight just fine. What were you before coming here? Some MMA fighter?"
Kiryu frowned at that, shifting his gaze down to his drink as he considered his next words. Most civilians who found out his prior lifestyle weren't so quick to understand. Then again, considering the way Naofumi was treated, he knew that he'd be one of the few to likely understand.
"... I ran an orphanage." Naofumi nearly fell out of his seat.
"You've got to be kidding me! A guy like you?!"
"But before that… I was a yakuza."
That made Naofumi flinch, his eyes half bulging out of his head.
"Yakuza? What's that?" Raphtalia tilted her head in question.
"I was basically part of an organized gang. I don't know if this world has an equivalent to it, but something of a criminal organization." That was able to sink in with Raphtalia, her own eyes bulging this time.
"A yakuza… huh? That… kinda explains some things." Naofumi mumbled, stroking his chin in thought. "It definitely matches that mean mug of yours…"
"Master Naofumi!" Raphtalia scolded.
"Heh, that's alright. I used to get that a lot." Kiryu chuckled, looking at the two. "I was part of the yakuza for years until… some things happened, and I was forced out. I did a stint in jail for ten years before I opened an orphanage."
"... Wait, this doesn't make much sense." Naofumi's brow creased in doubt. "Years? You barely look older than me. There's no way that's all true."
"Hm? Oh, I guess I forgot to mention that," Kiryu scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Before I came here, I was forty seven. But when I was brought to this world, I was… de-aged, I guess."
"Eh?!" Raphtalia and Naofumi's jaws slacked, the two staring in utter disbelief.
"This seems to be the most surprising thing for you two so far." Kiryu smirked again.
"Of course it is! I don't think any of us went through that kind of dramatic change! That explains a lot in fact!" Naofumi blanched, scratching at his hair with both hands. "You're way more mature than those other idiots! Hell, you were more mature than I was before all that shit went down!"
"I'm pretty sure I'm still more mature than you." Kiryu chuckled.
"You know what I mean. You have a lot more wisdom than half the people in this world, far as I'm concerned." Naofumi rubbed the back of his head. "It's just kind of odd to wrap my head around… I guess everyone got different treatment. Still, I didn't know that people outside the Four Heroes could be summoned from our world."
"Harken thought I was the wielder of the Seven Star Gauntlets, but when I heard that there was supposedly some other previous wielder out there, it made us doubt that theory." Kiryu said, holding up his arm and making the gauntlet expand. "I don't know much about this thing or what it's supposed to be… but it's definitely what brought me here."
"Hm… What about you, Raphtalia? Did you hear about other heroes from other worlds outside the Four Heroes?" Naofumi turned to the demi-human.
"Hm… I heard some rumors that some of the previous heroes' party were from other worlds, but that was just a rumor. Nothing really confirmed it like with the Four Heroes." Raphtalia shook her head.
"Hm. Guess we'll just have to accept that as a mystery for now." Kiryu shrugged. "Either way, it doesn't make much difference for now. But that aside, what's your impression of me now? Knowing that I was a yakuza."
Naofumi blinked, scratching his cheek with his index finger. "Well… it was kind of surprising, but it's not a big deal to me. I mean, if you got out of it and opened an orphanage of all things, it clearly wasn't for you. And even if you were a yakuza until you got here, I probably wouldn't give a shit. You've done more for me than almost everyone in this shit world so far, and I've known you for the least amount of time."
"He's right, Mister Kiryu. Regardless of your past, you're clearly a good person." Raphtalia smiled kindly.
Kiryu smirked, happy to hear their answers. "I see. Well, I guess we can drink to both being considered the scum of society."
Naofumi let out a genuine laugh at that, grabbing a cup of ale and holding it up. "Yeah, I guess we can. Cheers."
Naofumi and Kiryu toasted, downing their drinks before joining the rest of the party.
The week after the wedding had been relatively quiet. Naofumi and Raphtalia stayed in the village for the time being, working with the villagers on the minor repairs needed around Lute. Julius did as promised after coming back from their two day honeymoon and began teaching Naofumi the written language. Kiryu took the chance to learn some as well, considering he wasn't very well versed in it either.
During this time, oddly enough, Filo began to grow at an exponential rate. By the end of the week, she went from being the size of the egg she was born in to matching Nugget in size, only a head or so smaller. That didn't stop her from being bold though, the two birds often at odds with one another as Filo liked to pick fights with Nugget, eventually evolving into a rivalry.
"Seriously. Could you two get along a little better, now?" Kiryu sighed, walking Nugget next to him as the filolial let out a low growl, eyes narrowed at Filo.
"I don't know what her big deal is with your bird, either. From the day they met, they haven't liked each other," said Naofumi, keeping Filo on his right and as far away from Nugget as possible.
"Typically filolials travel in herds from what I've heard, so it's kind of strange that they don't get along very well…" Raphtalia put a finger on her chin.
"Well, Nugget's always been a problem child. I guess they're similar in that way." Kiryu shrugged, only for Nugget to peck at his shoulder in disapproval.
"Well, we'll be leaving soon. Hopefully giving them space will let them stop hating each other." Naofumi said.
"So, you're planning to head out soon, huh?" Kiryu asked, feeling a little bummed to hear it.
"Yeah. As nice as it's been here for us, we've got to get on the road. I need to start making money and really leveling up, otherwise we won't be ready for the next Wave." Naofumi explained, earning a nod from Kiryu.
"I see. I guess I can't blame you for that." Kiryu hummed before giving him a smirk. "Well, if you ever have time between business, feel free to drop by Lute. We'd be happy to welcome you again."
Naofumi's expression became conflicted, looking at Kiryu with hesitation. "Is something wrong?"
"Huh? No, I…"
"Come on, Master Naofumi! Ask him!" Raphtalia urged, an excited and expectant look on her face.
"Raphtalia, I told you I wasn't sure yet…" Naofumi groaned, looking to the side in mild embarrassment.
"Ask me what?" Kiryu came to a stop, raising a brow at the two. "What's going on?"
"Well…" Naofumi trailed off, rubbing his arm nervously.
"Shield Hero! Kiryu!" The three looked down the road to see Julius running toward, the mage looking panicked as he stopped in front of them. "Thank goodness I found you! We need your help!"
"Right now? What's going on?" Kiryu asked, turning in alert.
"It's the Spear Hero! He's here with the princess and several knights! They're gathering the townsfolk at the front of the village for something." Julius explained, causing Naofumi to scoff.
"What are that bitch and moron doing this time?"
"We shouldn't wait and find out. Come on." Kiryu suggested, the five (including the birds) following Julius to where the villagers were gathered. Naofumi visibly tensed when Princess Malty came into view, and with Motoyasu standing next to her no less.
"Hear ye, hear ye! In recognition of Motoyasu's efforts during the previous Wave, the King has granted lordship of this land to the Spear Hero, Sir Motoyasu!" Malty announced, the Spear Hero raising his chin proudly. Many among the village broke into worried whispers and confusion, but Malty continued on. "So in light of the rebuilding efforts, Sir Motoyasu will be leveying a toll! Any and all who enter and exit the village will be charged a toll of fifty silvers!"
"What?!" Julius blanched, the villagers going into an uproar.
"What kind of ridiculous scam is that?" Kiryu narrowed his eyes in irritation, clenching his fist as he began to weave through the crowd.
"You dare to oppose the taxation from your new lord?" Malty glared at the crowd.
"You're damn right they do." Naofumi called out, following close behind Kiryu to the front with Raphtalia. "Do you idiots have any idea how much you're charging?"
"Shield Hero?! What are you still doing here?!" Malty snarled, her eyes darting from him and back to Kiryu before smiling. "Neither of you has any place in this discussion! You had your chance to take this village before, Weaponless Hero! You're too late to change that now!"
"So in return, you're going to rob the people of their hard earned coin?! Where do you get off?!" Kiryu snapped, looking to Motoyasu this time. "And you!"
"M-Me?" Motoyasu blinked innocently.
"Are you fine with stealing villagers money so blatantly?! You'll drive this place into the ground!"
"W-Well, Malty said that a fifty silver cost wasn't too bad…" Motoyasu scratched the back of his head.
"Alright then, tell me how much it costs to stay a single night at the inn here." Naofumi said, crossing his arms. Motoyasu continued to look awkward and quiet, Naofumi pushing further. "One silver. It costs one silver just to stay at the inn. And you're planning to take fifty silvers every time someone enters or leaves? You'll wring out every last coin these people have until they starve!"
"Yeah!" The crowd began to go into a louder uproar, rallying behind Kiryu and Naofumi.
"W-Wait, I…" Motoyasu meagerly attempted to dissuade the crowd, only for Malty to step up and wave at the surrounding knights.
"You dare oppose a royal decree?! You're all nothing but peasants!" The knights raised their spears, ready to beat back the crowd with lethal force.
But just as fast, Kiryu equipped his gauntlets, stepping forward as a burst of sparking white energy surrounded him."You threaten these people again… I'll bury your entire kingdom."
The knights immediately recoiled at the threat, and the crowd went silent. Kiryu's intimidating aura washed over those around him, and even Motoyasu and Malty took a step back, feeling as if they were facing a ferocious dragon. Malty shook the nerves away though, smiling despite the sweat on her brow and taking a step forward. But before she could escalate the situation, several figures appeared on top of the stage. Kiryu widened his eyes when he saw the same black garbed men from the night of the fight.
"Wh-What?! What are you doing here?!" Malty demanded.
"A message for you, Princess Malty." One said, holding out a scroll. Naofumi took the moment to approach Kiryu, touching his shoulder.
"It's them again. The queen you think?" He whispered.
"Probably. She must be keeping tabs on her daughter." Kiryu said, narrowing his eyes in suspicion.
"Wh-What?! This can't be right! How could-"
"You know your mother's orders, princess." Malty bit her bottom lip in frustration, her eyes darting to Naofumi.
"Shield Hero! Lord Motoyasu hereby challenges you for the right to rule this region!" Malty declared, causing Naofumi to blink.
"Huh?"
"Of all the things…" Naofumi sighed, fastening a harness to Filo's back. It was strange enough to have the challenge be suddenly hoisted upon him, but it was even stranger to have a challenge for a dragon race, of all things. Naofumi had no interest in the region, and initially refused even after the townsfolk's begging. But then Kiryu came and pleaded their case, and Naofumi suddenly buckled.
"Sorry to ask you this." Kiryu sighed, leaning back against Nugget's side as he watched Naofumi get ready. "I would have taken your spot, but they seemed adamant about it being you this time."
"That bitch doesn't want a repeat of what happened at the duel, probably." Naofumi huffed, looking at Kiryu from the side. "Still, I'm surprised they chose a race of all things."
"Well, at least we were able to avoid going to blows over this," said Raphtalia, looking at Kiryu. "I thought you were going to fight the knights."
"Sorry about that. But seeing them threaten the villagers like that pissed me off." Kiryu's brow hardened, glaring across the field at Malty as she spoke with her knights. "That woman doesn't have a single redeeming quality, huh?"
"Some would argue her looks, but I just think that makes it worse." Naofumi scoffed, glaring the same way.
"Shield Hero! Shield Hero!" The three turned their heads to the side to see Julius running over, panting for breath as he arrived. "Good, you haven't started yet. I was hoping I could catch you first and give you something!"
"Oh? What is it?"
"I thought I'd cook up a little something special for your filolial!" Julius smirked, producing a small vial of yellow liquid. "Tada~! A special speed boost potion! You just have to slip it to your partner real quick and it'll be moving twice as fast!"
"Huh. That does sound pretty useful." Naofumi hummed, taking the vial and pocketing it. "Thanks. If it'll make Motoyasu eat my dust, I won't complain."
"Master Naofumi! That's dirty!" Raphtalia argued, cheeks puffed up in disapproval.
"So what? I expect they'll be pulling plenty of dirty tricks of their own." Naofumi shrugged, shooting another look at Malty as several knights dispersed. "If it'll help me win, I'll do it."
"Exactly! Please do your best and don't let our humble village fall into the hands of a moron and a harlot." Julius grinned, putting his hands together and bowing.
"You really don't have much shame left, do you?" Kiryu smirked as Julius nearly tripped over his own feet. "But don't worry about any dirty tricks. I'll take care of it. So try not to use the potion if you can avoid it."
"Hm? What do you mean?" Naofumi blinked, only for Kiryu to shrug.
"You'll see. Besides, you should probably check on Filo."
"Huh?" Naofumi and Raphtalia turned to look at the bird, Filo coming face to face with the riding dragon that Motoyasu would be using. She ground her beak and hissed at it, a dark expression covering her face.
"What's her deal..?" Naofumi grumbled, scratching his head.
"Well, it is said that filolials naturally don't get along with dragons… so maybe that's part of it." Raphtalia informed him.
"Hm, that is a bit of an old tale, but I suppose it stands true." Julius stroked his chin curiously. "I'd heard that there were dragons and filolials that could transform and used to mate, but eventually it became violent between their races and they never again cross-bred."
"Huh?" Naofumi and Kiryu wrinkled their noses, not liking the picture forming in their heads.
"W-With dragons?! That seems so strange!" Raphtalia's lip quivered at the idea.
"Well, that's one account. Several others say they've always just naturally hated each other for one reason or another." Julius shrugged.
"Hah! You're really going to ride that thing?" Naofumi felt his skin crawl when he turned to see Motoyasu approach, spear resting proudly on his shoulder. "It's just a big floppy bird!"
Filo walked back over as Motoyasu laughed, seemingly understanding his taunting well enough. As she strode by him, she delivered a devastating kick to his crotch before he could react. He went flying from the force, coincidentally straight into Nugget of all things. The black filolial blinked as Motoyasu slammed into his chest, causing him to skid across the ground before stopping. Nugget glared back at Filo, the pinkish-white bird letting out a strangely devilish giggle.
"Th-thank you for stopping me…" Motoyasu mumbled, dazed and in pain. Nugget just looked back down at him before reeling its right leg back. "Have mercy..?"
Nugget had no mercy, slamming its leg directly into his crotch and rocketing him back toward Filo. In return, Filo simply kicked him away, having the smallest amount of mercy by not aiming at his jewels this time, simply batting him away like an unwanted soccer ball. He flew directly into a pile of hay, this time going noticed by Malty who ran over in a panic.
"Lord Motoyasu! Quick, a healing potion!" She ordered the knights before glaring back at Naofumi. "You dastard! You're cheating before the competition!"
Naofumi blinked before giving her a shit eating grin. "Hey, it's his fault for getting too close."
"He should know that filolials aren't the best tempered." Kiryu smirked, scratching Nugget's head in approval.
Filo crowded next to Naofumi as the two not so stealthily hid their laughter. Raphtalia watched them with some awe, a smile spreading across her lips.
"Laughter suits him better, huh?" She jumped when she heard Kiryu's voice, the former yakuza smiling next to her, one she happily returned.
"It really does!"
"The race will be three laps around the outer edge of the village!" The village lord announced. Motoyasu and Naofumi had taken their positions next to each other, ready to begin. "Whoever is to reach this cape first will be declared the victor!"
"Lord Motoyasu! Do your best~!" Malty cheered from the side, standing by her knights.
"I believe in you, Master Naofumi! Do your best!" Raphtalia called from her place next to the villagers.
"I will also note that, after some discussion, this match will be observed and judged by Kazuma Kiryu, the Weaponless Hero!"
"Huh?" Malty blanched, looking at the village lord before looking at Kiryu, who stood close by with Nugget's reins in hand. "Wh-What?! How can this be fair?!"
"I'm simply going to make sure nothing dirty happens." Kiryu argued, arms crossed over his chest. "I'm not going to be partial to Naofumi or Motoyasu. I will keep anything underhanded from happening, though."
Malty grit her teeth in frustration, stepping forward to say something...
"Hey, it's fine! There's no way Naofumi's going to beat my riding dragon anyway!" Motoyasu waved her off, grinning with pride. Malty hesitated, biting her bottom lip as Kiryu smiled in satisfaction.
"F-Fine! But if I see you letting any cheating slide, Naofumi will be disqualified!"
"If you say so. Go ahead, sir." Kiryu nodded to the village lord. The old man nodded back before raising his arms in the air.
"On your marks… get set… GO!"
In a flash, Naofumi and Motoyasu's mounts took off, the two leaving a trail of dust behind them. And from the start, it was clear that Filo was taking the lead, having an edge in speed over the riding dragon. Malty bit her bottom lip in irritation, looking over to where Kiryu once was only to see that he was gone.
"Tch. Yeah, right. We'll see if he can 'judge' this match well. Move out!" Malty ordered her knights in a whisper, moving the edge of the fenced wall where the racers would come around. Two knights moved to the other side of the road, hiding in the brush to conceal themselves. As the dust clouds approached, one of the knights put his hands together to cast a spell.
"As source of thy power, I order thee… create a pit in front of-"
"Not even a few minutes before you guys start cheating, huh?"
The knight froze as he slowly turned around. For his trouble, a fist dug straight into his jaw, several teeth knocking loose before he went flying past the other knight. "GUAGH!"
"Wh-What the-" The other knight cowered, quickly running to his friend's side and helping him up. Kiryu now stooped over them, cracking his knuckles. "Y-You would dare strike a royal knight?!"
"I'm in charge of making sure this is a clean and fair match. A match declared by a royal decree." Kiryu said, causing the knight to clam up. "If you cheat, you can either take a royal punishment or get your lord disqualified."
"But… but…" the knight's jaw slacked, struggling to find a proper answer. He finally clicked his tongue and reached for his sword. "You-"
Kiryu cut him off with an armored fist to his head, knocking him over. Kiryu scoffed, looking up to see Naofumi riding past. He was clearly ahead of Motoyasu, who huffed and snarled in protest as he tried in vain to make his mount go faster. That's one lap down. Better go and make sure that the other parts of the field aren't being prepared with traps.
Kiryu left the two unconscious knights behind, whistling for Nugget to come. The filolial trotted up, quickly pullling his owner on top using his neck. They then began to ride through town, looking to cut through and check the other side of the field. But as they reached the outer edge of town, they were suddenly surrounded by a host of knights, spears presented.
"You won't be allowed to stop us, Weaponless Hero!" A knight declared, raising his sword as the others pointed their spears.
"Seriously. You idiots are just wasting my time." Kiryu sighed, hopping off of Nugget's back. The black filolial snarled at the knights, scraping its talons against the ground. "Fine then. If you're dead set on getting barrelled over, then come at me!"
(Yakuza 0 OST: Trouble Shooting Star)
Royal Knights
The first knight charged Kiryu from his left side. Kiryu easily evaded the spear, stepping past the pole and slamming his forearm into his chest. The armor did little to protect the knight, the wind knocked out of him as he flipped through the air several times before landing face first in the dirt.
The other knights built up their courage, beginning to charge at Kiryu together. Several were soon intercepted by Nugget though, the filolial slamming its foot directly into the chest of a knight and launching him into another.
"Wh-What the-?! His filolial can fight too?!" One of the knights blanched, his spear shaking in his hand.
"Don't waver! We must follow the princess's orders!" The supposed leading knight declared, rallying his men.
"Sorry. But those will be orders you can't keep." Kiryu dashed forward, a yellow aura surrounding him as he grabbed another knight's chest plate and swung him through the air. He spun him in a circle, smacking several other knights with the man before tossing his body on top of theirs.
"You cur!" The leader growled as he aimed to spear Kiryu through. The former yakuza simply stepped back, avoiding the blade before grabbing the spear. Ripping it from the knight's hand, it soon began to reject the weapon with electric energy, but Kiryu didn't mind as he soon tossed it aside. He then brought his fist back around and slammed it into his stomach, hitting with enough force to send the man flying into the remaining knights on their feet.
"Nugget! Let's go!" KIryu called, the black filolial quickly to his side and dashing forward the moment Kiryu mounted its back. They began to race through the village, looking to the sky to see the dust clouds kicked up by Naofumi and Motoyasu's mounts. "They're getting close. The knights should be, as well… Let's get to the edge of town."
It wasn't long before they were faced with the dirt road outside Lute, the two quickly looking around for their targets. "Pewa!" Kiryu followed Nugget's pointed look, catching sight of a knight standing in the brush.
"Good job. Let's go!" Kiryu pulled on the reins, but Nugget shook his head. Kiryu looked down the path, seeing the two racers steadily approaching. "Shit… we might not make it in time unless…" Kiryu stood on top of Nugget's saddle, narrowing his eyes as he faintly heard the knight begin to chant. "It's now or never. Buck me!"
"PEWA!" Nugget quickly threw its hips forward, launching Kiryu through the air.
Blue sparks erupted around Kiryu, the former yakuza cocking his arm back as he grit his teeth and aimed his punch. The knight took notice of him a little too late, looking up and dropping his jaw in shock. "HIYA!" Kiryu slammed a fist into said jaw, sending the knight tumbling across the ground. Kiryu rolled safely across the ground, stopping on one knee before looking back at the course.
"It looks like the Shield Hero's in the lead! Only one last lap left!"
"I think that's the last of our knight problems. With that done…" Kiryu walked back over to Nugget, quickly mounting him and riding back to the finish line. He came to a stop near Raphtalia, the demi-human looking at him curiously.
"Hey, Mister Kiryu. Where did you go?" She asked innocently.
"I was just dealing with a couple of 'bumps' in the road. Everything should be okay now." Kiryu vaguely answered. He looked across the road to see one of the knights limping over to Malty, the bitch princess's jaw dropping as he relayed a message to her. Kiryu couldn't stop a smirk from forming on his lips as he watched her snarl, turning a heated gaze his way.
Raphtalia tilted her head in question, but drew her attention back to the course as Naofumi and Motoyasu soon approached. "Ah, here they come! Go, Master Naofumi!" Raphtalia cheered. Kiryu watched as Naofumi and Filo made a sharp turn around the corner, well ahead of Motoyasu as they finally crossed the finish line. It was clear as day that Naofumi had won the race.
The villagers cheered, quickly crowding together as Naofumi slowed to a stop. Kiryu trotted ahead of the others, meeting the Shield Hero first. "Good won that pretty soundly."
"Thanks. Though if you want to give someone praise," Naofumi hopped off Filo, smiling as he raised a hand to pat her back. In that instant, Kiryu and the other villagers watched as her body transformed. Filo's form blew up like a balloon, now looking like a thick ball of feathers with a larger head. "It's Filo." Naofumi finally pat her feathers, but took notice of the shift in thickness. He looked at his mount, blinking owlishly as he finally saw her new form. "Wh-What the hell?! Filo?!"
"Pewa!" She chirped happily, almost as if nothing had happened.
"That's… new." Kiryu mumbled, looking down at Nugget expectantly. The filolial only tilted its head and shrugged its wings in clear confusion.
"What's the deal with this..?" Naofumi mumbled in shock, raising a brow.
"You filthy cheater!" The crowd quickly shifted their gaze to Malty, the princess walking over with her (clearly injured) knights behind her. "First the Weaponless Hero cheats by assaulting our knights, and now this tub of lard reveals itself?! This was a clearly rigged race!"
"H-hold now, your Highness! The filolial only now transformed after taking part in the race!" The lord of Lute pleaded their case.
"Not to mention I caught your knights attempting to sabotage the race. So instead of disqualifying Motoyasu, I gave them the 'red flags'." Kiryu crossed his arms, unamused by the princess's lies.
"Tch. Why doesn't that surprise me?" Naofumi scoffed, glaring daggers at Malty.
"Likely story! From what my knights describe, you were the one they caught attempting to cheat for the Shield Hero! And when they tried to stop you, you assaulted them!" Malty accused, pointing a finger at Kiryu. "It was a clear show of favoritism from the so-called 'official' of the match!"
"Actually, Princess…" Malty immediately tensed up as the same men and women in black appeared next to her. "We kept a number of our Shadows close by to observe the Weaponless Hero's actions. He was clearly stopping several of the knights from sabotaging the racing track."
"Wh-What?!" Kiryu smirked as Malty's face went pale at being called out, her eyes darting around the villagers before turning her back. "Tch! Clearly they were only concerned for the Spear Hero's safety when dueling with a cheater like the Shield Hero!"
"Even when exposed, you're still full of it." Naofumi spat in irritation.
"Regardless of their intentions, Kazuma Kiryu acted within his right as the official and prevented them from cheating, your Highness." The Shadow continued, causing Malty to grit her teeth and huff.
"Whatever! We'll leave for now! But don't think this is the end of it!" Malty snarled, turning back to her knights and walking past them.
"Don't think this victory means anything!" They heard Motoyasu approach, Naofumi turning to see the dumb blond hero glaring his way. "Next time you won't be so lucky! And that fat ball of feathers won't-"
"Hey, how's your crotch doing?"
"Master Naofumi!" Raphtalia huffed, only for Naofumi to grin smugly at the Spear Hero.
"S-Shut up! You'll pay for this!" Motoyasu snapped before walking off awkwardly, legs spread wide to give his junk room. Kiryu hopped off Nugget, walking over to Naofumi and Raphtalia.
"Looks like that ended well enough. Good job winning," said Kiryu.
"Good job keeping the course clear. I thought I saw you sailing by when I was racing." Naofumi smirked. "What exactly were you doing?"
"I was just making sure it was a clean race." Kiryu chuckled.
"Guuu~!" The three looked to the side to see Filo stooping over Nugget with her newfound size, a smug smile on her beak. Nugget simply glared back, looking unintimidated by her stature.
"No, Filo! Bad!" Raphtalia scolded, quickly pulling at Filo's collar to keep her from initiating another fight.
"Seriously, could you two give it a break?" Naofumi sighed.
"Lord Shield Hero!" Naofumi and Kiryu looked over at the village lord, the old man smiling in appreciation. "We cannot express our gratitude enough for your efforts! Now we can continue with our lives unimpeded by the princess or the Spear Hero."
"Yeah, well… I didn't do this for free." Naofumi cleared his throat, attempting to seize back his colder persona. "While it's nice that you're all back to normal, I still need my reward."
"Master Naofumi…" Raphtalia huffed, tugging on his cloak.
"Don't worry about that." Kiryu stepped up, putting a hand on his shoulder. "I've got plenty of money saved up. I'll foot the bill."
"A-Are you sure, Kiryu? We wouldn't want to put this payment on the town's savior!" Lute's lord asked in shock.
"I don't mind. I'd say Naofumi's more than deserved his pay." Kiryu said, smiling at the Shield Hero.
Naofumi stared at him for a moment, looking genuinely touched by the notion. But quickly finding himself, he cleared his throat, assuming a more composed expression. "I don't want money. That should be spent on the town's renovation funds."
Kiryu raised a brow, crossing his arms over his chest. "I see. Then what is it you want?"
"First, I want… uh…" Naofumi looked hesitant again, looking away in thought. But as he got ready to answer, he felt Filo's beak prod his shoulder lightly. He followed her line of sight, seeing an old cart nearby left alone. "Huh. That'd be a good place to start."
"Oh, right. Filolials like pulling carts, right?" Raphtalia said, looking up at the bird and smiling.
"Alright, then. We'll take a cart like that, if not that one specifically." Naofumi pointed out.
"Of course, Shield Hero! We should definitely be able to spare you a cart if you please!" Lute's lord nodded fervently.
"Seems like a good idea if you're going to travel more. Is that all?" Kiryu asked curiously. Naofumi shifted his gaze to him, his eyes looking hesitant again.
"Well…"
"Go on, Master Naofumi! Ask him!" Raphtalia urged him quietly.
"Shh! I'm getting to it…" Naofumi huffed, suddenly looking nervous again.
"Ask me what?" Kiryu raised a brow, remembering that Naofumi had a similar reaction earlier that day.
"I wanted to… say that… in the future, I'll likely need some help. During a quest or maybe even the Wave." Naofumi scratched the back of his head, unable to meet Kiryu's eyes. "So, as a favor for today, I'll ask you to help me out some time. And I expect you to give me a hand. Okay?"
"Oh, Master Naofumi…" Raphtalia sighed, obviously disappointed.
"Be quiet…"
It was obvious that Naofumi was dancing around something else entirely, that much Kiryu was sure of. But not wanting to push the subject, Kiryu smiled. "Alright. If you need any help sometime, come and find me."
Naofumi and Raphtalia smiled, both nodding in affirmation. "Well, I think that's all I'll need. Come on, Filo. We've got to get our stuff from the inn."
"Ah, before you go, Shield Hero!" Lute's lord called out, running over and drawing a gold plate from his cloak. "If you're going to travel, this should help you."
"What's this?"
"It's a trader's pass. You'll be allowed to take many different roads and enter villages without paying tolls now that you have this!" he explained, causing Naofumi's brow to rise in interest. "You should consider doing some trading as you travel. It might prove rather lucrative to your endeavors!"
"That's… actually really helpful. Thanks." Naofumi smirked, tucking the pass away. "That reminds me. Hey, Kiryu? I want to work a deal out with your friend Julius."
"Hm… so you want to sell my potions as you travel?" Julius asked, surprised.
"Sure. You've got good stuff here, that's clear. I've already used quite a bit of what you gave me before." Naofumi nodded. "If you give me a few crates, I'll sell them while I'm on the road. I'll just take a percentage of the take. How about twenty five?"
"T-Twenty five?! That's a big cut!" Julius blurted. "This deal is interesting, but I'm not sure I could take such a huge loss! How about fifteen?"
"Twenty." Naofumi haggled.
"Seventeen!"
"Deal." Naofumi smirked, offering a hand.
Julius let his jaw hang for a moment before sighing, taking his hand and shaking it. "I never expected to do this kind of business, but if it'll help you Shield Hero, I don't mind. You can do twenty percent if you like."
"Heh, that's alright. You've got to make money too." Naofumi shook his head. "Thanks for all your help with reading. I'll be sure to keep your guide as a reference so I can practice as I travel."
"I was happy to be of service. I'll get a couple crates ready. Go ahead and wait outside with Kiryu..." Julius said as he grabbed an empty crate and began to fill it. Naofumi turned around and walked outside, Kiryu leaning back against the shop with Raphtalia.
"Well, looks like my first bit of business is handled. Once Julius is done, we'll be hitting the road." Naofumi announced, drawing a nod from Raphtalia.
"It'll be a shame to leave. I do like the people in this town quite a bit," Raphtalia said with a thoughtful smile. "I'll have to thank Melonie before we go for helping take care of us."
"She'd appreciate that. She seemed to love you." Kiryu smirked at her before turning to Naofumi. "Well, I guess this is goodbye for now. You be careful on the road, alright?" Kiryu said, offering a hand.
"Yeah. We will." Naofumi took it, shaking it firmly but taking a moment to let go. His expression softened as his eyes cast to the side. "Kiryu… listen…"
"Hm? What is it?"
Naofumi was silent for a short moment before sighing. "Nevermind. Just… thanks for everything. I… I really appreciate it."
"I was just returning the favor." Kiryu nodded, letting go of his hand.
"You say that, but I still feel like you've done more for us than the other way around…" Naofumi sighed, scratching the back of his head.
"You've done plenty. Don't be a stranger and feel free to visit us whenever you want." Kiryu said, placing a hand on his shoulder. "I'll be ready for whatever favor you need."
Naofumi gave him a warm smile and nodded. "I'll hold you to that."
Soon after that, Julius came out and brought his potions for Naofumi, giving his eternal gratitude and bowing in farewell. After making a stop at the inn to bid Melonie farewell, the three set off, with Kiryu being the last to bid them goodbye at the edge of Lute.
"Pew~pew~pew~!" Filo chirped as they road out of town, the filolial looking happy as can be to be pulling their cart.
"Blegh…" Raphtalia groaned, hunched over the edge of her seat.
"So you do get motion sick…" Naofumi sighed as he watched the demi-human's suffering.
"I-It's okay… I can manage…" Raphtalia mumbled out, hoping to not burden her master.
"If you say so…" Naofumi said, focusing on the road.
"H-Hey… Master Naofumi?"
"Yeah?"
"How come… you didn't ask Mister Kiryu to join us?"
Naofumi clenched his jaw, looking at Raphtalia from the side. "I just… don't think it was the right time."
"You… you trust him, don't you?" Raphtalia asked.
"... Yeah, I do. I just… I don't know." Naofumi sighed, feeling unsure. "I'm sure he's got plenty going on for himself worrying about Lute Village."
"Maybe… but… I really like him." Raphtalia admitted, her expression somber despite the sickness. "He stood up for us when no one else would. It would have been nice to travel with Mister Kiryu."
"... Yeah. I do too. Maybe… maybe we will in the future."
To be continued…
Thanks as always goes to my beta chidoriprime for their help!
FINALLY! I finally got a chapter done for one of the stories sitting on my shelf! About time XD It's been a strange few months for me, so forgive the obvious lateness of this chapter. But for those who are unaware, I made a decision some time ago to no longer stick to a schedule like I had, as it was incredibly taxing. It's no one's fault but my own for overcrowding my catalog, but what's done is done, and now we're back! It's nice because I hadn't thought I'd be able to finish a chapter before the holidays, but thankfully this one came to me quicker than the others.
So yeah, there you guys have it! Naofumi's fully aware of Kiryu's background now (not the meaty details but the gist of it I suppose lol) and is quite alright with it, to no one's surprise. And obviously, he wanted to take their relationship… to the next step. But he got cold feet and chickened out in fear of rejection XD honestly writing those scenes was kind of funny because it felt like writing a guy who's desperately trying to confess but can't do it outright, so he looks for other reasons to have them work together in the future lol
Anyway, that's it for this chapter! I hope you all enjoyed, please leave a review, a follow and a favorite if you'd be so kind :) Oh, and before I forget, Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!