The Strongest Shield

by oblivon2991

The legend! A walking disaster! The "Strongest" Man on Earth! Many titles he gained. Many times he "saved" Earth. His heroics, all a lie? Or all true? Not as it matters. Thrown into an entirely different environment, a new world, he will prove his worth. Hilarity and misunderstanding ensue when he appears! The King engine starts: 'Dub! Dub' "Man, I quit being a hero..."

9. King of Legend

Well, hello again!

It was a while!

While many thought I died or abandoned King and his mighty rumble, here I am! Returned from death!

Sorry for the long absence!

Hopefully, it will not happen again!

(or yes, depending on my mood, and the generosity of the muse… XD)

I hope you will like the new chapter of King's adventure!

Also, please check out the revamped and tidied chapter 8.

Thanks to TransendedPotato's tireless work, it was improved and, corrected grammatically.

New things were also added, giving an entirely new experience even those who read it previous!

I wish you pleasant reading!

Let's continue King's tireless adventure!

But before that, the usual rambling...

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Written by Oblivon2991

Proofread: The usual drunken gang of misfits

Thank you for reading my fanfiction and for giving me a chance.

My mother tongue isn't English, so please be patient about the grammatical issues.

I don't own One Punch Man anime/manga/webcomic, it belongs to ONE.

I don't own The Rising of the Shield Hero (Japanese: 盾の勇者の成り上がり, Hepburn: Tate no Yūsha no Nariagari), it is written by Aneko Yusagi.

Please review, or send a PM if you have anything to add or have questions or remarks.

Thank you!

Now let's start the story!

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Chapter 9: King of Legend

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"Mom! Dad! Are you sure we will be fine?"

"What do you mean, sweetie? We already left Melromarc. Those evil people can no longer reach us."

"But…" Mikumi, the small wolf girl, glanced around in worry, searching for the sign of more evil people appearing on the horizon.

The traumatic memories of that event were still with her.

"We can rest soon, don't worry."

Her parents reassured her, but she had a bad feeling ever since they parted ways with the Shield Hero. Without him, she felt, those evil people could be back at any time, and they will hurt them again.

No! Maybe the Shield Hero's mighty presence gave too much comfort; without it, she felt insecure.

"I miss the Shield Hero… he even let me ride his neck!"

She blushed, remembering the Hero from the tales carrying her around. He was even more heroic and kind than the old stories depicted him.

"I don't even care what others say!" She puffed her cheek and pushed out her chest.

King's mere memory was enough to hiss away such thoughts. More so, it made her ignore the mean, jealous comments of other children — and some older girls.

"They are just jealous because the Shield Hero carried me!" Of course, he picked up several children, but she was proud she was amongst the few who had the opportunity to use him as a mount.

"It is a miracle everyone made it."

"Yeah. When all that chaos started, I was not sure even one of us would survive."

"Yet we did! All thanks to the Shield hero and his accomplice."

And now, they headed toward their new home. Far from the cursed place called Merlomarc where they were treated as second-rate citizens — worse, slaves!

"The Lord was generous! Not only did he give us all we could gather from the wreckages, but even shared the reward he got for those ruffians."

"I am surprised though… they went with it so willingly. I mean. They didn't even resist after everything ended but admitted everything to those knights and pleaded to be taken into custody."

"Are you surprised? After the Shield Hero and that girl defeated them, the outcome was obvious. I would have thrown myself before their legs without hesitation if I were them — hoping for the best." Definitely not to get as far as they can from the man — many thought sarcastically.

"True enough…"

"Some of them did that… actually." added another demi-human, remembering the whole thing.

The Shield Hero both inspired hope in them, but also managed to plant the seed of dread in anyone who stood against him.

Truly, the onlookers can't decide to praise or fear him at that moment.

"We are really lucky the current Shield Hero is on our side…"

"Well, in the tales, the Shield Hero was always the friend of us, Demi-humans. So, it is not that surprising." Commented another.

It was around a day since these people left Melromarc. Former free people, who, after being enslaved in the aftermath of the great calamity, regained their freedom once more! All well and intact, of course. All thanks to King and Raphtalia.

Thanks to them, they regained their freedom. Even managed to gather enough wealth to start their new life!

A life which may be hard in the beginning but nonetheless will be better than the life they had in that wretched country. A life no longer under the rule of a government which treated them poorly — even monstrously.

"Do you think Lord King will be fine? I mean, they gave almost all the reward to us…"

"The Shield Hero is resourceful. I am sure he will be fine. Besides, did you see his armour? A man of his standing must have immense wealth!"

"Yeah, you are right."

None of them suspected how wrong they were. All of the demi-humans in this small caravan booked the Shield Hero as the mighty hero who saved them. An immensely influential, strong, but above all rich, and generous person who treated such expenses as nothing.

"Surely, he will be fine…"

Oh! How wrong they were!

"Though, he should have escorted us further."

"Idiot! Don't be so greedy! He was good enough to escort us through the border! He has much more serious duties than escorting us!" For example, preparing for the next wave and helping others in need — thought many as they nodded.

"Though, we used that old smuggler cave to get out from Melromarc…"

"Yeah! A cave full of monsters. Great find, truly!" One of the demi-humans muttered sourly.

Listening to the adults, Mikumi pondered why some of them were so grouchy?

They survived and got through. Everyone survived! The Shield Hero and his beautiful companion even cleared the cave for them — risking their life! What more do they need?

"Don't be an idiot! The Shield Hero was right! There is no way the guards would let us through that border otherwise. Didn't you hear? Ever since the waves started, they barely let anyone through! The country is almost completely under lockdown!"

Which meant, without a permit, you could hardly get through. And even with a license, the guards are not likely to let pass a ragtag group of demi-humans — especially one carrying weapons and seemingly stolen goods.

"We are lucky one of us was a smuggler previously…"

"… and know that abandoned monster-filled cave."

"Hey! We got through! Don't we? Besides, after we find a place to settle, I plan to change my profession. I had enough of that shady business. It got me into this mess in the first place."

"Truly?"

"Truly!" The fox boasted proudly, and everyone around him laughed heartily — leaving behind such negative thoughts.

After all, they were alive, and they had a bright future before them. What more could they need?

They only pondered about one thing: where did the Shield hero go after he escorted them to safety, and left their group?

Back to Melromarc? Or even to another country? None can really tell.

"Oh! A falling star!"

"At dawn?"

"Isn't that a bad omen?" Most of the group looked up, seeing the star fall from the heavens, passing before the moon.

"Nah! Don't be such a spoilsport! It is really rare but not unheard."

"Quick! Make a wish!"

"What did you wish for, sweety?"

"It is a secret! If I tell you, it will not come true."

Mikumi made her wish silently, telling no one about it. Yet, deep inside we probably know what that wish was.

---

Scene Change: Meanwhile: Somewhere Else: In Melromarc:

Unlike what the people he saved thought, King had another opinion of his current standing.

"I hate my life…" King muttered lethargic, trying to scrub the monster goo from his armour .

His day, as usual, started horribly. Not only did Raphtalia start to possessively hug his arm recently in her sleep — making him unable to sleep well, or at all — but he even fell into a monster nest while trying to gather some herbs in the forest.

"Lord King… your odor…"

"Yeah, yeah… I know." King sighed, glancing at Raphtalia, who stepped a few steps away and covered her face — tears pouring from her eyes.

One may think after all the monsters they defeated and the adventures they conquered together; she would be already immune to such stench. Yet, compared to these monsters, the rest can be categorized as fresh, and fragrant.

"I almost threw up as well…" And it was an opinion from a man who during his time as a "hero" in his own world was covered by monster guts and all other foul substances on a daily basis — thanks to those strange accidents happening around him all the time.

"Of course, I am glad I am still alive despite my circumstances. Getting out from those hairy things is also nice. But can't the world be considerate enough so as to not splatter all that stinky stuff all over me?"

That's why he spent considerable time under the shower every day! To scrub that nasty smell from himself and his clothes! Wasting his precious time, he should have spent with relaxation, and playing games, recuperating from his daily dose of trauma!

"After a while, I could barely recognize the smell…"

But what to do in this world? There was no shower! Neither washing machine! Nor laundry service!

Here the best he could find was a river, or if he was lucky, a well. He may wash all the grime off there — if he was lucky.

"But maybe if we hire a maid to travel with us and do these chores?" No! A stupid idea! No maid would undertake such a dangerous task to travel with them — no matter how much they give her from their nonexistent wealth. "Well, at least I hope I can buy some soap in those alchemy shops."

Surely, they have some perfume, or soap here as well. Those maids and ladies in the palace smelt quite nice.

King, a man who previously lived in a modern society where tap water and electricity were a basic necessity for every home, had the need to shower at least once a day!

If he couldn't do that, he wanted to wash himself off with some soap and this breezy water! He would not lose the only thing that separated a civilized person from a dirty thug — or even an animal.

"Haahh…" Finishing with his armour, he removed his clothes too, entering the gentle river to wash the dirt off from himself.

"Oh! Cold…!" He shuddered, finding the water quite cold.

"Lo-Lord King…!"

"Hmm?"

King turned to Raphtalia, whose knees trembled, her face beet red, watching his body, which, since coming to this world, slowly shaping something befit to his fame.

"What's the problem?" He asked dumbfounded.

"I-I…" The girl gulped, turning away. "I-I will leave you by yourself, my Lord."

"Eh?" What was her problem now? Sometimes, he didn't understand her. But girls will be girls, right? Sometimes, even other women don't know what their fellows think.

"Ok… I guess."

Shrugging, King continued to clean himself. They will have a long day. He only hoped, that no more monsters would get in their way today — albeit, he very well suspected, this was just a fruitless wish.

"Achoo!" Great, now, he even got a cold, or is it that someone mentioned his name? The hell would he know! He was only sure this day could hardly get any worse!

"I-I will prepare some food until you finish your wash." Raphtalia turned her gaze away, biting her lip while blushing. Even the sight of Lord King made something move in her stomach.

"Oh! Thanks. I think you can use those eggs I found nearby." Strange eggs, those according to Raphtalia looked the same her mother often made tasty omlettes from.

"We found them in some bird's nest. I guess they should be edible."

The parents of that nest were nowhere to be found. Probably either killed by some predator, or away to fetch some food.

"Well, if they return, they will not be happy." He as well would be mad if someone out of nowhere destroyed his home, took his stuff, and killed his kids — even if he had no kids to speak of. "I had a goldfish when I was a kid. I forgot to feed it and it died." Entrusting a kid to him probably would end in catastrophic consequences. "Well, I have Raphtalia to take care of now. I'll try not to mess her up at least."

"Please, entrust it to me!"

Beaming at her Lord's words, Raphtalia readied herself to make a truly wondrous feast! Starting to prepare for a grand meal!

"Since I've been traveling with my Lord, I've learned a few things…" Amongst them, how to make simpler meals.

A simple thing, that hopefully could earn her Lord's affection and approval.

"Let's see, a pan, some eggs. Some vegetables, mushrooms and herbs for spice." The campfire nearby will fit for cooking.

Methodically, she prepared everything. Put the pan on the makeshift "grill grate" — as her Lord called it — over the fires.

"At first, I didn't understand why my Lord asked that smith to make one. But now, I see how immensely useful it is." Using it, they can roast the meat more evenly, not to mention it has other uses. "Being quite compact in design was just another plus."

Placing the pan on the grill to heat it, Raphtalia started to dice the vegetables and mushrooms.

"Another thing I learned from the herb encyclopedia…" Something King once received as a reward after helping someone. "How to differentiate between toxic and edible mushrooms is an usefull skill."

Day after day, she learned more and more, following King's instructions.

Day after day, she felt, she reached closer to properly thanking King for what he did for her — even if she knew she probably never could fully repay her debt. Nonetheless, she was willing to serve him until that day came, no matter how long it took.

"I know, my Lord only wants what's the best for me, so I can stand on my own two feet." Still, every time she thought about parting ways from King, some kind of unease, some strange dread made her shudder.

"I need to concentrate, and prove myself!"

Shaking her head, she continued to prepare the meal. Finishing with the dicing, and one by one cracking the eggs.

Rich egg yolk and glair are poured into the pan. One after another she continued the process cracking open the oval objects.

Then, as she cracked open the last egg, a chick dropped out directly into the hot metal surface.

"Chiiirp!"

"Huh?"

It only took a few moments of intense heat to make the nestling recognize, it was not good for them, jumping out from the pan fiercely on Raphtalia's face, starting their intense assault against the one who tried to cook them alive!

"Chirp! Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!"

"Ah! Get away! Get away! Lord King! Help!" Albeit, for such a weak creature to overcome Raphtalia may have sounded like complete nonsense, this little bird was craftier than initially looked. Attacking the girl on her weakest, most vulnerable point, on her hair, messing it all up! Or… was it just a clever way so she may get closer to King? Only Raphtalia knew the answer for sure.

"Yeah…!"

In the end, Raphtalia was driven into the water, hoping to get rid of the small bird.

"Umm… are you alright?" King deadpanned. The moment he looked at the girl he knew, she was in no serious danger.

"I-It is gone?" With almost tearful eyes, Raphtalia watched her Lord standing over her, his impressive form towering above the meek girl.

"I think so…" Looking around, he didn't see any beast. What she was freaked out by so much anyway? "She really acted like some of the girls in those dating simulators." Which means, overacting, alternatively, trying to create a situation which warranted to him saving her.

"Nah!" He snorted subtly. "She is just ten years old, no way such a thing would be in her mind."

Her body might be more developed, almost like an adult. But her mind? Yeah, King right away discarded any such dirty, or even romantic intentions.

"Auch!"

"Chirp! Chirp!" In the next moment, something pinched his hair.

"Oh!"

"Tha-That was the one!" Jumping up faster than the normal eye can follow, Raphtalia pointed at the small bird who sat on King's head.

"Hmm?" And King watched his reflection in the pond. "A bird…" It was familiar. It had similar feathers like those big birds who used to tow carriages in towns.

"Qu-Quickly! Let's take it out!" Clumsily, Raphtalia pulled out her sword, pointing at the creature.

"Chirp!" And just as battle-ready, the small one glared back at her!

"It is just a bird…" Grabbing it gently, King watched the thing with lack of interest. "Why is she so hostile? Is she jealous, or what?"

"Ummm…"

"Chirp! Chirp!" The bird chirped happily as King took it in his hand, patting and caressing their head slowly. "So soft…" Afterwards, with a quick jump, it nested once again on his head. "I think it likes to be there."

"My Lord, you can't possibly think we should keep it?!" Visibly, even the mere thought offended the girl,

"Chirp! Chirp! Chirp!" For this, the fowl gawked at her, even sticking out their tongue mockingly.

"You little…! Lord King! It is mocking me!"

"Mocking you?" Inspecting the creature, it was almost like it smiled at him. "What are you speaking about? It is just a bird."

"But…" That damn bird! Now it is deceiving her Lord! She can't possibly let such foul play!

"Well, in the worst case. We can eat it… auch!" Angry and protesting, the creature pinched King's finger, starting to whine indignantly and pointing randomly with their wings. "Or not…" It was almost like it could understand what they said. Quite weird he must say.

"Nah! That is not likely." King dismissed that idea immediately.

"What's this smell?" Calming herself a little, Raphtalia's demi-human senses picked up something. "Something burning nearby… Ah! Our food!" As Raphtalia hastily jumped out from the water to save what she could from their meal. Seeing her comical display, King could only shake his head.

He already felt, they once more had to collect things for their lunch.

"I am hungry though…"

"Chirp…!" And their new friend agreed with a deflated chirm.

"Hmm, maybe some roasted meat?"

"Chirp!"

"Then it is decided."

---

Scene Change: The Capital of Melromarc: Royal Palace:

"And as such, your majesty, that impenitent Shield Hero interfered with my official business. The business I conducted in the name of the crown." The slave merchant — Adolphman Barthoff — bowed his head deep, keeping peerlessly his false mask of regret.

"Not only did he steal all my living wares, but he even killed the brave soldiers under my employment. Soldiers who clearly tried to reach a peaceful solution under my orders. Brave sons and daughters of Melromarc, who tried their best to hold back that creature when all reason fell — Yet, in the end, were decimated utterly. I as well barely managed to get away from the wrath of that man when I tried to stand up for his madness. Only thanks to the selfless, and noble sacrifice of my faithful assistant I manage to escape from the terrible clutches of his, and that beast woman he holds on a loose leash. The sheer carnage he caused… indescribable."

The trader continued his well-constructed story, which, like every good liar, he made up by mixing as much truth content as possible, changing crucial details to turn the situation to his advantage.

He even managed to shed a few false drops of tears, shuddering fake as he recalled the events that followed.

"How terrible! It is a miracle you survived, dear friend." Naturally, this false charade managed to convince Aultcray, even going that far to stand up and pat him on the shoulder comfortingly.

"Thank you, your majesty." Falsely gulped the man, trembling slightly. "Please forgive my momentary shakiness. But the events still haunt me. All those brave men and women buried under the rubble, torn apart by sheer brutality. I… I don't even know how I will continue my business after such a catastrophe…"

"I might imagine. That brute almost got me too. I understand your concern." Aultcray gritted his teeth and clenched his fist in rage, remembering the events. "To think that damn Shield even attacks the representative of the crown? Moreover, my former comrade in arms…?" His rage almost reached the breaking point, the king barely managed to contain himself to burst out in fury!

"He even attacked you, Your Majesty?" Adolphman blinked with a false surprise.

"Yes. No less in my own throne room. Under the grand gala, which we held to celebrate our victory over the wave."

Yet, afterwards, that venomous "sneak" almost convinced him he didn't intend to hurt him!

How foolish he was to consider a truce! How foolish he was to even think of it!

His honeyed words were like poison! Confused his mind as he did with his poor daughter!

On that night, King almost made Aultcray believe he only sought what was the best for the people, and all of this was a misunderstanding! He almost made him believe they are against this threat together, and they need to join forces to have a chance!

"Worse! He even made me doubt my dear Malty!"

But no more! He went too far this time!

He should have listened to his daughter's warning words! He should have listened to his instinct, which forewarned the furtive ways of the Shield Hero!

His mind rarely failed him before, yet now, that venomous bastard managed to outwit it! Even despite his instinct screaming to not trust the man, the logical points that night he presented still overwrote that feeling in his gut!

But not now! Listening to the detailed tale of his former comrade in arms, he was convinced, it was all a farce! A play that "King" constructed to play the fool with him!

Adolphman, as his former companion, would never fabricate such a story. Why would he do that! It made no sense! Also, it doesn't add up at all!

"How horrible!" The merchant gasped. "Your majesty, are you… alright?"

"Yes, I survived, barely though. Also, haven't I said it before? We are former comrades. Just call me by my name — like in times of old. You earned that much, old friend." With a sly grin, Aultcray beamed foxy at the merchant.

"Hmm… As you wish… I thought you would never ask." Chuckled Adolphman foxy, almost like until now all of this was just a play. Their comradely suffocating all negative feelings, bringing forth old memories once again. "It was a long time, huh? We both have gained many grey hairs since then."

"Indeed it has! I can't argue with that!" Laughed Aultcray sourly, remembering the times of old.

Times when peace was not taken so easily and granted, but earned through sheer wits and brawl. By their might, wits and steel.

"Though, you are keeping yourself quite well. You barely aged. Why didn't you visit sooner? When I saw your application for that permit, I was quite disappointed you didn't come personally to ask me for approval. I would have granted it instantly."

"Unfortunately, my duties didn't allow me to make such a detour that time, please forgive me. As for my appearance…" The man glanced out of the window, then back to the king. "You know well, a man of my profession has to keep himself youthful and flexible, else, customers would go elsewhere." Adolphman slicked back his carrot hair as he removed his top hat for a moment.

"Though I can't say the same for you, old friend, you gained quite a stomach while I was away." He pointed towards the slight gut Aultcray hid under his robes — using his metal cane.

"Huh…?" Aultcray blinked, glancing down.

Most who would say such a thing to the king right away earned a life sentence or execution for high treason. But hearing Adolphman's comment, Aultcray burst out in a joyful laugh.

"Hahahaha! It can't be denied. Peace really dulls the body. And thanks to my duties as the current king, I just don't have time to train. Ah! How much I miss those times… Getting up, training, then going into battle." There was some longing in his voice, even unconscious pinching his gut.

"We both…" Nodded the slave merchant, both remaining silent for a moment, recalling the good times when they fought side by side.

"But we shouldn't reminisce about the past for too long. Not now at least. Not while we have more urgent matters at hand."

"Yes, you are right…"

"Instead, tell me, what do you plan to do with the Shield Hero? You can't possibly let him wander around just like that. In his current state, he is a threat to the stability of your country. And the business of many law-abiding citizens and foreigners."

"I..." Aultcray remained silent for a moment before clicking his tongue. "Honestly, I am starting to run out of ideas. Everything I tried until now failed miserably. That man — if he is even a man and not some monster — is something else. He sees through every plot! Every attempt was vain to take him out. He turned all of them upside down! Turned them all of it to his advantage. Truly an adversary I never faced before! It is like all of this was just a game for him!"

"How unfortunate…" Adolphman pulled his hat in his eyes.

"Do you have any suggestions? I am open to anything to get rid of him. I am starting to run out of ideas."

"Well, considering the losses I suffered recently — thanks to him — I am hardly in a state where I can do anything. Remember? I barely survived."

"I didn't ask if you can do anything personally, but if you have any idea how to get rid of him, I accept any proposal at this point. If you would see poor Malty — my poor daughter — You would be horrified. You didn't see her since she was an infant, right?"

"Right, it has been a long time since I visited you…"

"She grew to be a splendid lady; you know? But now? That man broke her! She is a shadow of her former self." Aultcray looked down for a moment, imagining all the curses and suffering the Shield Hero brought to his head! Oh! How he wished all that suffering fell back to him a thousand times!

He already planned out all the torture he would impart on him once he got his hands on that fiend "King".

Even at this moment, he tried to come up with new, more creative methods!

"That's terrible!" Gasped the slave merchant. "Still, as a king, you need to see the bigger picture. There are nations that consider a Shield Hero as their god and savior. If you would hurt him directly, a war would surely ensue between Melromarc and the surrounding countries." Something the mother queen tried to avoid currently — if his intel was right, of course.

"Tch!" Aultcray's expression hardened, already figuring out this much.

It was bad enough his wife harassed him about letting the Shield Hero alone. Now, even his friend had to remind him how powerless he was currently.

If she could just see what that man had done, she would have a different opinion. He was sure of it!

"Though, war is good for my business. I don't wish your people to suffer. Besides, why would you want to get rid of a good tool? Instead, why not use it as intended?"

"You can't possibly propose…!?" Aultcray really considered slapping Adolphman! After what he had done with his family, proposing an alliance with that man equaled a betrayal he wouldn't tolerate!

"Why not? Why should you not use the Shield Hero for your own gain? Why shouldn't you make him trip on his own tail? As I heard, he is starting to gain quite popularity not only in the countryside but even in the town. I say, use this!"

"Hmm… So you say, turn his own fame against him?"

"Care to guess, friend? Back then, you were the one who came up with those twisted plans and strategies. Plans that made even enemy armies falter. Plans that made whole armies tremble even hearing your name…"

"It was… long ago." Aultcray looked away, his eyes gazing into the far, almost like he recalled that part of his life. The part where his vassal weapon still heeded his call. The time when his dear wife still met his gaze. The time when her eyes filled with a fiery passion, and not cold, disappointed light whenever she looked at him.

"Oh! Don't be so hard on yourself, friend. I believe in you. We will figure something out, you will see." The light glinted in Adolphman's evil eyes behind his shades. "I say, let's discuss things accompanied with a good drink. It was some time we last did so. I say a friendly chat is due."

Aultcray sighed, then a smile curled on his face.

"Very well! You always knew how to brighten my day."

…

The discussion went long, and the merchant left the king's study only hours later.

He must admit, it was good to catch up with his old friend. Regaining his losses, and pursuing further his plans were only the plus addition he gained by coming here.

"Haah! It is always a pleasure dealing with friends." Unfolding the golden edged scroll bearing the royal seal, and Aultcray's personal signature, the slave merchant grinned wild and foxy.

The previous permit was handed out to every slave merchant who requested it through the royal ministry. A cost and time-demanding process which had many bureaucratic dead ends. Even with his connections, it took some effort to get one.

"It is not accidental though. The kingdom can't hand out such permits for free to everyone, else, other countries can easily declare war, or use it as the sole reason to incite others to sanction Melromarc."

This is especially true to Shieldfreeden, Siltvelt and other nearby demi-human countries who only a few years ago declared a ceasefire with Melromarc. They always had an adversary relationship with the nation since its "anti-demihuman" politics first took roots.

"Poor queen, she tries her best to barter peace. It is unfortunate that all her attempts are in vain until Melromarc continues this policy…" Misunderstanding aside, he and other slave dealers profited greatly from this policy, enjoying the fruits of senseless racism and cruelty.

"One first needs to clean their own house, before trying to take care of another. Don't you think so? I know you are there, please, come forth." Adolphman stopped, glancing towards the obvious hiding place of the one who spied after him — though he ignored them, many shadows watched his every step since he entered this place.

They were so obvious it was almost painful to call them as the "special force" of this kingdom.

"Well! Well! You recognized me."

At that moment, the sallow redhead stepped to the light.

Still wrapped by thick bandages, her skin was slightly less green than it was previously. Hair missing in patches. Her current appearance truly mirrored her warped personality.

"Of course, I am a perceptive man, after all."

"Is that so?"

"Of course…"

"Hmm. You make me curious. How did you recognize I was there?" The princess asked, albeit, the answer was quite obvious.

Mixing the necrotic effect of the poison that affected her body, and the different kind of ointments the best healers of the kingdom used to save and heal her, she had quite an odor.

"Not to speak… she uses an awful lot of perfume to cover the stench."

In itself, the fragrance costs more than a year's salary for a knight, and would smell quite pleasant for most — possibly give any woman the allure to turn head to any man — but mixing it with the princess's current "odour", and using such concentrated amounts? The result was less than pleasant.

"What can I say! I have a natural instinct to tell where people are! It comes with my profession!" Laughed the man, almost nervous.

Though, after many years being a slave merchant he indeed developed some kind of "sixth sense" — All of it to find the best wares, and know when people are watching him.

But even without this, the princess lacked the finesse and means to blend in the shadows at all. Even a child would recognize her.

"She is not as subtle as she thinks she is." It was obvious she tried to spy after them through a peeping hole in the king's room — A failed attempt, botched by his wind spell which muffled their voices for anyone who was not in close proximity.

"Still, that odour…" Even Aultcray complained about the stench — albeit, he can't really place it in his office. "My friend, you went a slightly senile. Living in this palace did nothing good for you."

"Naturally…" The princess measured him thoroughly, only her expensive clothes and her eyes made it evident she was the daughter of the royal couple. She indeed grew since he last saw her.

"Ah! But how crass of me not even introducing myself! My humble person is Adolphman Barthoff. A slave merchant from Zeltoble, your highness!"

"Huh… so a slaver from the country of mercenaries?"

"That's our humble profession, yes."

"You were in my father's office for some time. The guards even refused to let me in." Which implied they discussed matters not even the first princess should hear. A direct order from Aultcray himself — which even negated her direct order. Quite a nuisance for Malty, that's for sure.

"What can I say, business takes time." Answered curl the man, twirling his thin moustache.

"Mayhaps. Still, can you share what you discussed? I am quite curious what took so long."

"Unfortunate, but it is confidential. Please understand, some things are best left between old partners."

"Even a secret before the first princess?"

"Unfortunately, yes."

"Oh come on! Can't you share some details with me?" Slipping closer, Malty hugged the thin, but athletic man's arm, sandwiching it between her breasts. "I am the First Princess, after all, you can tell me anything! You can trust me…" She whispered in his ear as she tiptoed closer, passionately biting his earlobe.

"This girl really is…!" Adolphman's eyes almost twitched. It seems, his intel was right.

That cute little baby he saw back then really grew to be a manipulator who even uses her body to gain what she wants.

In most cases, he would even applaud such behaviour. Yet, from someone of her standing, he expected more charm and subtlety. More finesse. They would definitely make her offer more charming — also, less calculable and desperate.

He expected as much from a whore in the slums, who got paid a few coppers at best to use her assets for such a purpose.

"Well, she is definitely acting differently than her Iron Maiden mother…" Or, her father who was not only a splendid fighter back then but was also a tactical genius.

"Please excuse me, princess. But I can't…" Slipping out from her grasp, he tidied his suit. "...as a businessman, my honour would be tarnished if I would betray my customers' trust. If you are curious about what we discussed, ask his Majesty personally. If you excuse me, I have places to be. I am sure we will meet again."

Bowing while holding his hand over his heart, the man backed away, using his heel to turn around, leaving the flabbergasted Malty alone, mouth still agape after such a hasty escape.

"Tch! Fine then! I will figure out who you are! Sooner or later..." Stomping away, the shadows watched this exchange, already preparing their report, sending it as soon as they could to their queen.

Scene Change: Around a day later:

"I can't believe it!"

"That guy is actually making the boss sweat!"

In an inn, two sides faced each other, playing a round of what looked like a strange game consisting of dice and a set of cards.

"More cards…"

"Is he serious!? He is almost at the limit!"

"You need to roll for it, pal," Sweated the stocky, bald man who faced his mysterious opponent in this strange game.

"Fine then…" The stranger with the hood — we all know well — rolled the dice, making the crowd gasp in disbelief.

"H-He did it!"

"Again!?"

"Is he cheating or what?"

"There is no way he can roll that one after another!?"

"Hmm…" Pulling several cards, the warrior with the hood placed the cards face down. "Pass…"

"Just what he is thinking!?"

"He is throwing away such a chance?" Many in the gathered crowd were baffled.

"What a fool!"

"Just what are you playing… stranger?"

"It is your turn…" The apathetic tone of this man really made this gangster-looking figure sweat bullets. With that hood cowering half of his face and his neutral expression, he just can't read him.

"Chirp! Chirp!" The little bird that sat on his head was only the cream on the top. The little chit only made his current status of being cornered more humiliating. It was like that little shit mocked him!

"I will turn that little shit into roasted chicken once this ends!"

"Tch!" But what should he do? He was on the edge. If he messes it up now, the whole match will turn to his opponent's favour. "Hmm…" But what can he lose? If these tactics will work, then the tide will turn. Luck favours the brave, right? Or the one, who has the cards and dice on their side. "Give me cards."

"Bu-But boss!?"

"Give… me… cards. Now!" Glaring at his subordinate, the card dealer gulped, proceeding to give more cards for the bald man.

After this stranger beat everyone else in the inn and dried them up, it was his only chance to get back their money.

He had no idea who this stranger was, but he definitely bugged him with his constant streak of being close unbeatable!

"In the worst case we will attack him, beat him up, and take back what's ours." Seeing the girl on his side, maybe they can even sell her for a good coin. She was quite beautiful despite being a demi-human.

"Fierce with that adventurer attire and sword. But nothing a little beating can't soften."

"My Lord, are you sure?" The little lady was actually worried. It looked like she learned the rules after watching the man for a few rounds.

"Yes."

"It is my turn." Moving his mole-like eyes back to his cards, the fat man grinned under his big nose. He pulled just the right members so he can win this match finally. "All in."

The stocky man pushed forth his bet, making the demi-human girl's mood turn anxious.

"M-My Lord? What should we do?!" She can't help but look worried. Though the girl only had a vague understanding of the rules, it was obvious even for her: pushing all those chips in the middle implied her Lord's opponent was sure of his victory.

"Are you sure…?" But before she could voice her worry further, her master asked by raising his brow subtly — though, it was not really visible under his hood.

"Yes, yes! Now proceed! I haven't got all day."

"In that case. All in…" He did the same as his opponent.

"Hah! You fool! Let's see how you beat this!" Laying his cards face up, revealed five different figures, depicting heroes and kings. A combo everyone in close proximity watched baffled.

"Th-The legendary combination!"

"See, I said it! No one can beat the boss!"

"Now, pay up! Let's see your cards finally. Afterwards, I'll buy you a beer, for a good game." The bald man grinned, revealing his bad teeth and foul, ale addled breath.

"As you wish." Slowly, King did the same, one by one turning up his cards. "I think this will beat your combination, no?"

"Tch! Don't be so cocky! The dice will decide who will win!" It was the man's last chance. His opponent was right; his cards were indeed better. But like always, the roll of the dice can change the situation easily.

"My only chance! How the helled he pull such a combo?!" Everyone was baffled, unable to say a thing seeing what the hooded player accomplished!

It was close to impossible to get those cards one after another! Anyone doing it is either blessed by the divines, or… cheated!

"In that case, let's roll." Raising four dice held between his fingers, he put them into the small box, shaking them methodically.

"Let's do this." His worry seemingly disappearing, the bald man followed suit, both starting to shake at the same time, then placing their boxes upside down.

"Ready?"

"Yes." Slowly, the gangster boss raised the box, revealing his figures. "Hah! Two heroes and two kings! You will never surpass this."

"Four heroes."

"Gah!"

"It can't be…!"

"Impossible!"

"Ho-How?!" The stocky man's eyes bulged suddenly, looking between the playfield and his opponent. His usually narrow eyes opened to a never seen width!

"I think this means I won."

"Yo-You cheated!" The gangster jumped up and hit the table.

Seeing this! The girl immediately reacted by stepping a half step closer and putting her hand on her sword, the bird on the player's head gawking threateningly.

"Chirp!"

"Proof?"

The hooded stranger, of course, just tilted his head. Completely calm and sure, the girl behind him will be more than enough to take care of every ruffian in this inn!

That unmoving, uncaring lower face, those piercing eyes that peeked out under the hood! They all met their opponents when he raised his chin slightly! And those scars running across his eye… It was the greatest combination which can intimidate anyone, no matter how tough they were.

"I… I…!?" What should he say on this question? Say that he knows? Say, he did the same?

No! They were on home ground. The numbers were on their side. They will just beat them up — be they looking dangerous or not.

"I think; it is time for us to go, Raphtalia."

"Yes?" The raccoon girl blinked confused. Just what is her Lord thinking? She even lowered her guard slightly.

"Chirp! Chirp!" And their new companion agreed on their own strange, chirping way.

"We are leaving."

"Just what do you think of yourself!?" That's it! The gangster will not allow himself to be humiliated anymore.

"Collecting my reward."

[ド Rumble! ド]

That noise coming from "his" direction filled the bandits around with an overwhelming unease.

"Any complaints?"

"Boss?"

"Ge-Get him!"

"Just as expected." Under the hood, the man was not even surprised.

Deep inside, he expected this. Expected to get attacked after basically plundered these people when they challenged him.

"We just came here to meet our contact. And well, these people challenged us for this game." He said no, but Raphtalia wanted to try it out. And well, after losing all the money she was entrusted with, the man was forced to play along to save the tearful girl's dignity.

"She should really learn when to give up."

One more thing he needs to teach her: Learn when to stop.

Fortunately, he had a little spare money from the ingredients he sold. Thus, the hero had his own kind of fun.

"Of course, I should have expected more will come…" after beating and drying up the first few challengers — and winning back everything Raphtalia lost — He should have anticipated bigger fish will appear to beat him, and take back their fellows' money, and more.

"Like in stories, gangsters hardly take it well when someone milks them dry." Not the other way around though. "Like bullies. Like when they beat, but whine when they are getting beaten."

Despite knowing this, the hero was still slightly annoyed.

"They rigged the dice and cards from the start. I just figured out how to use them to my advantage." Can anyone blame him for that? He only followed the special rules these people set.

In truth, he doesn't really cheat.

The only thing he did was just learn the markings on the cards and figured out how to throw the dice so they may fall as he wants. Since when is learning a pattern considered cheating?

"I do that all the time in fighting games. Is it cheating? I don't think so. It is called playing competitively." In fact, you can only really win and compete in those games if you learn all the animation patterns of each combo and attack.

"Let me handle them!"

"I think we should…"

"Get them! Leave the girl's face! She will sell well!"

"Dammit again…"

It was too late to resolve the situation through talk, these bandits already rushed at them.

Raphtalia jumped into action immediately, unsheathing her sword and using its dull edge against these people.

Even in this situation, she learned this much from King: Killing was not always the answer. Especially against such a lowlife whose death only brings trouble.

"How bothersome." The hero called King, naturally did not let the girl fight alone. Using his shield, he knocked out his fair share of ruffians — the conflict naturally he would have resolved peacefully if it were up to him.

Just like back in that canyon, he had already started to get used to handling such enemies. "At this level, it is like going back to low-level areas while you are at a high level."

In that case, it was almost like a walk in the park. "Naturally, that didn't mean I should be any less careful."

'Thump!'

Knocking out another set of teeth, King dodged the coming strike.

"This bashing fighting style might be useful against people like them, unfortunately, worth little to nothing against tougher opponents."

Especially against monsters with equal, or close to equal strength to him. Against those things, it is worth as much as hitting someone with an inflated rubber mallet.

"Potentially can kill them, but it takes a while."

"Guh! Wh-Who are you?" Finally, even the gang leader was sent to the ground, grabbing his face painfully. Around him, all his men were knocked out, he being the last who was still capable to negotiating.

"I am…"

"The Legendary Shield Hero…"

"Huh?" From the direction of stairs, a female figure descended, typically covered by a thick robe, and her head a hood.

"Th-The Shield Demon!?" Just what kind of mess he got himself into? "Pl-Please take all the money! Just don't hurt us! No! Take the life of my men! Just let me live!"

"…" King wanted to sigh, but at this point, he had given up finding a reason behind all of this demon thing. Instead, he turned his attention to the woman. "And who might you be?"

"Just call me, Scarlet." Removing her hood revealed a beautiful face. Slight freckles around her shapely nose, paired with a pair of piercing blue eyes and lush, red hair. Everything that screamed for a possible heroine, or, alternatively, a hidden villain who will betray him later.

"Another redhead? I hope she will not end up like poor Myne." It was tragic enough he had to witness her breakdown. More annoying that it happened under him. He somehow felt responsible. "Maybe if I gave her more attention, this wouldn't have happened. Or… redheads in this world are prone to be more affected with mental defects."

He really hoped that's not the case.

"So, Scarlet, what can I do for you?"

"Isn't it obvious?" She circled around the table. "I am your contact. You came here for my request, no?" Drowning the half-finished drink from the table, she simply threw it behind.

"Is that so?"

It was strange enough the guild sent them to this meeting point, stranger she waited until they finished with these people.

"Almost like she waited until we finished these ruffians off."

Why didn't she come sooner? The innkeeper told them he will notify them once she arrives. Yet, under the almost half day waiting, King really considered she simply not coming at all.

"I wonder if she just played with us."

Either testing them or playing them to die against these people.

"But that would be too typical, right?"

But considering things, ever since he arrived, this world starts to look like some cheap isekai with not-so-creative writing, and copy-paste type characters from other stories.

"Well, it is a middle-age type high fantasy world. With princesses, kings, magic, slaves and other things." Typical settings used to death by other writers.

"Ah! That glare! Indeed, just like in the stories circulating about the Shield Hero. It is really effective." Unlike others, she teased him. Looking quite fearless in fact.

"Is that so?" What glare was this woman speaking about? He just simply dazed off for a moment.

"But, maybe it was my fault. I made you wait a little longer than I planned. But… ah! It is in my nature. I can't help but watch the people's reactions. And when I saw you play and plunder those poor fools? I can't help but watch how it turns out. But you recognized that, didn't you? Our eyes even met while you played."

"Probably…" What the hell she is speaking about again? At the end of the third round, everyone in the inn watched them playing. And well, he just looked around a few times.

"Ufufu! I already like you."

"You have the nerve to play around with Lord King after making him wait so long?" Raphtalia's shoulders trembled. A sure sign for her to do something rash. Something King rather avoided.

"Chirp! Chirp!" Even their new, nameless bird friend did the same, flapping her short wings angry.

"Ah! And who is this if not the just as famous companion of the Legendary Hero! The demi-human girl, whose beauty is only comparable to her fierce nature, and kindness showed towards those in trouble."

"Ah…! Ah…! I am but a mere servant, incomparable to Lord King." King had to give this much Scarlet, she knows how to disarm a boiling youth.

Slightly shaking his head, King patted gently the head of his companion, then turned his attention back to their contractor.

"Did you finish? Can we proceed with the assignment?" Finally, he wanted to say. They wasted enough time here. "Though, that money I won with this game will come in handy."

They need to return to Erhard for maintenance soon, and some upgrades. It will cost an arm and leg if he had to guess.

"Not to mention our other expenses. The amount Raphtalia eats recently…" Well, she was a growing girl, still, she eats at least thrice as much as him! A grown adult! "And even this bird. She eats a lot too."

Even with hunting, and cooking, they still eat in inns from time to time — which costs money, of course. Maintaining their gear and buying the necessary supplies also cost a lot.

"Ah! Of course, how silly of me. Just as expected, but I think, we should discuss the details on the way. We wasted enough time as it is."

"Right…"

"Khm!" Hearing the coarse voice coming from the bar, all looked towards the grouchy innkeeper who glared at the trio. "First, pay for the damage."

"Meet you outside." Giving them no chance to ask her to pay — for the damage that happened due to her late intervention — their contractor left. Letting King use his accumulated wealth to pay for the damage.

…

Raphtalia and birdy glared at Scarlet from behind, sitting on the passenger seat of their carriage.

After collecting his well-earned money, her Lord even had to pay for the ridiculous demands of that greedy innkeeper. She doesn't even have to say, most of the funds disappeared in an instant thanks to this.

"Ummmm!"

"Your companion is still angry, Lord Shield Hero."

"I wonder why…" King mumbled.

Sitting on a coach, towed by two Filolial — as these long-necked bird creatures called — the group headed towards their destination. The destination both King and Raphtalia should have asked beforehand.

"It is too late now, I guess. She just ran forward, without saying a word. Asking us to hop on."

Now thinking about it, he should have refused to follow her until she said more.

"So, what's the assignment? You still didn't tell us about it."

"Ah! Right, please, forgive me. Let's start in the beginning."

After clearing her throat, she told them the story behind the quest.

According to her, she is after an ancient artefact, hidden by one of her ancestors.

"I don't like how this starts."

Disturbing the resting place of the dead? It never ended well for anyone — be it a game, some novel or otherwise.

"Any other info? Or are we just following an old dusty tale, hoping it is still there."

"Hmm, didn't the guild give you the info attached to the assignment?"

"Not really…" Just as expected, that guild assistant gave them an awfully suspicious grin when she told them: it is an assignment that perfectly fits their party.

"It was strange enough no one took that mission despite how long it was there." If he read it right, it was first posted more than a year ago. "I am such an idiot. I should have known!"

"Guuh! That damn wench!" King raised his brow hearing Raphtalia cursing in the backseat. But he was not surprised, he also wanted to do the same — doing so internally right now.

"Hmm, in that case. Can you tell us the details?"

"Hmm, naturally." She told them with a dangerous smile. A smile which turned a scowl right after.

"But I warn you, you might leave if I tell you. Haah! And when I hoped I finally found someone up to the task?" Scarlet muttered under her breath. Booking the whole thing as another failure as she urged the birds to stop.

"Lord King? What should we do?"

"I guess; we came this far already." They badly needed that money.

With their financial situation in a grave state, it is this or scavenging in the wilderness again for any tidbits and morsels to pick up.

"Until that senile king is willing to give us the same pocket money that was handed out for the other three heroes, we have little choice in the matter."

King felt he was once more being discriminated against. "Just because for some reason he doesn't like my face!" He was born like this! Deal with it! It was not his fault his face looked like he was hit by a shovel, and mangled up by a big cat!

"I knew you would not back down! Just as the stories depict you, Shield Hero. Ufufu…" In an instant, just as their ride stopped, the woman once more yanked the rein, signing the birds their intention to continue.

"Ummm!" At the same time, Raphtalia's glare intensified as this woman gave a sultry wink to her master. The same type of energy comes from their new pet.

"Oh boy… this is not good."

A girl glaring at another like this? No matter what memory he tries to recall, it never ended well — especially remembering the date simulators he played before.

"In that case, I tell you the details." Scarlet throwing back her hair like that — challenging — just made things worse. "As said, I am after an ancient artefact, hidden by one of my ancestors. Buried in the tomb of Drednacht, the ancient dread. The Emperor of Nightmares."

"A tomb? It doesn't sound too pleasant. Emperor of Nightmares? No! This definitely sounded too ominous! I want myself out! I want my money back!"

All who dared to disturb the tombs or burial place of the dead either ended up the same or forever haunted.

"And what's with that name?!" Drednacht the dread? Emperor of Nightmares?! It doesn't sound pleasant at all!

King tilted his head, offering what looked like a confused posture to the girl.

"Didn't you hear the tale of Drednacht, the dread, Shield Hero?"

"No…" Another fairy tale from this world. A tale, which judging from the name he was not the slightest curious about. "I have enough nightmares already."

"Dre-Drednacht?!" Like a cat, Raphtalia's tail stood up, shuddering while her face lost all the color.

"I assume you heard about it, Lady Raphtalia."

"Ye-yes…" The tanuki girl gulped with a nauseous expression. "It is a tale my parents told me from time to time. Behave, Raphtalia, or Drednacht the dread will snatch you away at night."

Though Raphtalia was a good child, her friends more often than not caused a ruckus. They told her about this figure. And when she asked about it, well, her parents told her about him in great detail.

"So, it is like the boogeyman, huh?" King concluded. It definitely sounded that way.

"Bo-Boogeyman?" Raphtalia watched King confused, gulping right away as her Lord compared that thing to Drednacht.

"Parents often tell their kids about the boogeyman where I came from to make them behave." For a long time after his parents told him that tale, he slept with a night lamp on. Hell, sometimes he does it even now.

"I know it is childish, and it should be the least of my problems in my monster-infested world. But maybe, it is the real deal, and it will snatch me away one day." After all, monsters existed. Who knows, maybe, the boogeyman is real too. Maybe, it is a monster that is sensitive to any kind of light and leave him alone if there is some nearby.

He can't be too careful.

"Hmm, so even your world has something like Drednacht, interesting." Hummed Scarlet intrigued.

"I think every world has its own boogieman." King was sure of it. His world especially has more than one.

"According to the tale, the heroes and their vassals joined hands in the end, defeating Drednacht and his monstrosities. Ever since his body and terrible creations are sealed inside his tomb."

"How reassuring." King was in unease, of course. By no means does he want to face something that got the nickname: dread and Emperor of Nightmares. "And her ancestor hid some artefact there? That guy or gal must be either incredibly brave, or mad."

One thing was sure. If what they told about this Drednacht is true, then no one would be fool enough to plunder their tomb, and as such, that treasure is still there.

"Lo-Lord King, we can't! We simply can't proceed further! If we do…!" Even thinking about it, nausea started to resurface in Raphtalia's stomach.

"I understand your hesitation. And I would understand your decision if you were to back away now. Still, we are almost there. It does not hurt to try as you are already here, no?"

"!" Worried and afraid, Raphtalia and their bird pet watched their Lord, really hoping he would reconsider this decision.

"I know well Lord King's strength. Even so, to endanger himself with such a task? We need him, my world needs him to save it from the waves!" Losing him probably means the end of their world. The death of many, and the repeat of her tragedy in many cases! She can't allow that!

"Tell, how come that assignment was on the board for so long?" King finally asked his question. At this moment, he really considered simply jumping down, and walking away.

"We will manage, somehow."

"Hmm… Oh, that? You know, in the beginning. There were many people who came to help. Trying to rise up for the challenge, and garner fame by conquering and plundering the famed tomb of the dread. But… most of them backed out after I told them the details. And the rest…"

"The rest?"

[ド Rumble! ド]

King's heart moved and froze at the same time. Just imagining the possibilities stilled his blood. Just what did he get himself into?

"Ah! That sound, is that the famous Shield Roar? I must admit, it sounds truly inspiring and fearsome. Just like others described it."

First the "King Engine", now this!? King really needs to speak to whoever comes up with these things to stand down, or he will be forced to stuff those "bright" ideas down their throat.

"Wait a moment!? She just suddenly changed the topic?!" Only now he realized how Scarlet suddenly changed the direction of their conversation. "Crafty wench…"

"Ah! Hooo!" The birds started to grow restless as they reached a swampy area, stopping abruptly, signaling they are not willing to go further. "We need to go on foot here. The beast out of some way, not willing to proceed further."

No wonder, looking around, the scenery changed from a normal forest to some nightmare swamp awfully sudden. It was like he was dropped from a beginner area to some endgame dungeon.

"Come, we are not far from our objective."

"He-Hey! Don't run forward! Wait for us!"

Great, now even Raphtalia going after that woman without asking him. Damn, he hated his hesitating nature.

"Chirp…"

"Do you want to stay?" He asked the small bird, who looked around unsure.

"I also want to stay, but well…" He needs to go, else, Raphtalia had to face whatever awaited her here alone.

"Chirp! Chirp!" Gathering courage, the small thing started to flap fiercely, puffing out its chest in defiance. "Haah! Very well." Offering his hand, she jumped on it.

King must admit, the little one had much more courage than he himself ever possessed. If he could, he just gave her the shield. She would be a lot better hero than he could ever be.

"Come…" Gulping almost loud, he followed the two girls, hastening his steps else his legs rooted to the ground.

…

King hated how calm everything was. No monster attacked them despite how the place looked. And the place was just… the word creepy was an understatement, maybe too light a word to describe.

In any other game or story, numerous monsters would have already swarmed them, or some unseen stalker would have jumped out from the shadows to eat them. But here? Nothing!

Just this uneasy feeling that this place was more than it initially looked haunted him.

"Whatever made the monsters disappear here, I worry, it might be still here."

Not even the voices of smaller animals, just the clapping sounds of their boots marching through this damp place. It was extremely unnerving!

"Since I arrived, the forest was always filled with the sounds of animals." Minor sounds, those made that place feel alive — both innocent and harmful. Both monsters, and animals.

But this place? Unnerving! Quiet and silent all around!

"No wonder those Filo whatever chickens refused to enter this place. It is just CREEPY!"

[ド Rumble! ド]

For King, who was so used to the constant noise of a big city like M-city, even a simple forest was oddly quiet, not speaking about this place!

"I don't like this."

"My Lord?"

"The silence is too profound."

"I hear nothing." Raphtalia moved her animal ears slightly, looking around confused. Just what can her lord perceive she cannot?

"Exactly. I hear nothing. Isn't it strange?"

"Hmm, now as you say it. Yes. I hear no animals." Neither the rustle of monsters who try to sneak up on them — which used to happen more often than not, even under their travels.

"Also, it is strangely cold here." Raphtalia can't help but shudder, she had a really bad feeling about this place.

"Chirp!" Even their pet confirmed the creepy factor.

"Drednacht's tomb is surrounded by an unnatural presence that scares away all animals, and even monsters. Weakening the resolve and power of the challengers who try to break into his tomb."

"Just perfect." if he was not a pessimist until now, all his doubt was erased. It was a bad idea coming along, and not abandoning the mission while he could. "But maybe, if we turn around now…"

"We are here." Announced their guide.

"Too late, I guess. Always too late… Why am I always too late?"

King started to argue with himself, looking up at the only structure in this dark place.

It was overgrown and barely visible, but it was definitely some kind of ancient mausoleum hidden under all that crap.

"Follow me."

"Lord King, look!" Near the entrance, several armoured figures stood. Judging by their pose, and the numerous fallen laying around, they must be protecting the place.

"Those skeletons. They are like adventurers and knights who fell here." All untouched, not even their armour, weapons, or valuables stripped. They were just left there to rot!

The cause of death? Pummeled, cleaved, melted to ash, or shot by something terrifyingly powerful that left craters on the surrounding!

"And a lesser army of them are around. And these holes… do these things use guns?"

Judging the size and shape, it must be a pretty high caliber.

"I wonder if they come to life once we reach closer."

Now seeing these things, if not the moss and the degradation of the environment, they may even resemble some mecha from some Gundam game or anime.

"Don't worry about them, they are inactive."

Walking near one of the inactive armours, Scarlet knocked it gently, and the thing fell forward, the dimming light in the socket going out.

"Is she reading my mind, or what?"

She spoke like she was there before, something that made King even more suspicious.

"…"

Saying nothing they followed Scarlet towards the sizable entrance, King still keeping his eyes on the remaining mechas.

"Yeah… I don't really want them to come to life, or piece themselves together thanks to some self-repair protocol."

Considering the technology Metal Knight and Child Emperor used daily, and adding magic as a variable, it was a sensible thing that some self-repair function existed.

"Of course, those two were freaks. It is no wonder they can pull out something like that like nothing. But maybe, even in this world, someone like that exists."

Mixing magic and technology was a trope in sci-fantasy novels. Even in some high fantasy settings, traces can be found. King sensibly deducted something like that might exist here too.

"Some long-lost civilization left these things. Their technology forgotten, only their creations remained as the memento of their former glory." Or, he guessed so. He himself was not really an expert.

"These people?" King looked around, not looking the slightest optimistic about this place.

"Adventurers, and well… people who sought to claim the famed treasure hidden in the tomb. Now come, let's not waste any more time on those who failed to even enter."

Right, because of their mistake, they died. Exactly what someone who draws people here to die would say.

"I don't like this…"

And he would be right, as in the moment they approached the entrance, they started to hear some rustle from behind their back.

"Lord King! Look!"

The dead rose, both figuratively, and literally. The remains of the former adventurers who peacefully rested in their marred state one by one raised themselves, grabbed their discarded weapons, and crawled, walked towards them.

"How typical." He almost laughed up aloud seeing these things marching towards them.

"Hmm, ah! I got it."

"Miss Scarlet, I think you should hurry up a bit." No matter how he looked at it, they were at an overwhelming disadvantage numerically.

"Chirp? Chirp?!" Even their little friend started to look uneasy.

"Grrr…" The sound of bones crunching came from all around them, disturbing the deadly still atmosphere of the swamp.

Crawling, from the ground, entirely from the top of this tomb like some distorted spider. Falling from the eroded trees that served as their resting place. The undead army that emerged from the swamp closed the ring around the heroes.

"Look out!"

King used his Air Strike Shield ability to protect his party from the falling skeletons and zombies.

"You said they are dead."

"Hmm… this is new even for me." Murmured Scarlet, glancing behind. Then returning her attention to the door, inspecting it with great detail — almost unbothered by the carnage behind her.

"But oh well, only a few skeletons. Please, hold them until I open the entrance. It should be easy for someone like you, no?"

"Only a few?" Is she fucking joking, or what? There was a lesser army around them! Ever slowly crawling and walking!

"I hate undead…"

Not to mention they also started to rain from above!

"What is this? The dawn of the raining dead?" It sounded like a third rate zombie movie!

"This is not good…"

[ドドド Rumble! Rumble! Rumble!ドドド]

The King engine once more started to roar, stopping the undead in confusion. The effect only lasted for a moment, before the unfeeling beings continued their deadly march.

"Haah!"

Raphtalia, as usual, took action immediately, cutting down several skeletons and half decomposed zombies in an instant.

"Why is she so hasty all the time? We can't take out all of them anyway. We need a plan!"

There was a horde around them, even King saw this from this position.

If not some miracle, their best option was a massive AOE attack — which type of attack he honestly lacked.

"I need to come up with something to compensate for that weakness."

Running around and pulling all of them, then luring them into a trap was another method. Alternatively, they can always run away and abandon the mission. He had no obligation to die here after being deceived so rudely!

"These things look quite sluggish, maybe we can outrun them." Judging by how easily Raphtalia slices through them, he was positive they can break through.

"Get out my way!"

'Clang!'

"Dammit that kid!" Dashing forward, he knocked down a few skeletons who surrounded the girl. Using his rope shield next to sling several farther away.

The beings were thrown to the ground, and most of their faces blown away by the sheer impact of his bash, yet, they continued to crawl, standing up again and again.

"Be careful, don't let them surround you. Also, look for the ground too! Many might try to grab your leg to distract you. Ensnaring your movement while another attack."

The main reason she was surrounded so easily was because she was distracted by the undead grabbing her leg, and she slashed them wildly without really thinking what to do next!

"You can't fight a horde like that! If they surround you, it is game over! You need to think where you are going, and always leave at least one escape route. Chip the numbers bit by bit if you can't take them out at once."

Raphtalia was skilful and talented. Learned everything after someone showed it to her properly just a few times!

But she was still green. Even Erhard, who trained her in the art of sword told King that much.

"Not as green as me though. Before coming here, the closest thing I did was "tactical retreat". Playing games and reading stories is the only qualification I am confident with."

Which honestly was his only real experience and guide how to handle situations like this.

"There are too many of them!"

"I recognized… Miss Scarlet, we need to retreat!"

"Almost ready! Just a moment! Oh, this is not good…"

"What?!"

"Nothing!"

'Baam!'

An explosion shook the surroundings, blowing away quite the chunk of undead all around.

"Is that… some high caliber gun?" It definitely sounded that way. Something that King wished would disappear the moment his head turned in the right direction.

"Ughhh! So loud!" Raphtalia can't help but grab her head. Having sharper senses also came with their own drawbacks.

"Didn't you say those things are inactive?" King pointed at the "things" with unsteady hands.

"Well, they were, last time!" Shouted Scarlet.

Under the heat of the battle, several of the undead approached her.

The moment they stepped on the magical boundary she drew around the entrance, they turned to ash, the survivors repelled, only to try again fearlessly.

"But last time I didn't manage to reach this far with this lock mechanism…"

"Come again?"

"Nothing!"

Just what they needed! First skeletons and zombies those were on to overwhelm them with sheer numbers, now even murderous, ancient robots fueled with magic reactivated!

"Can this day get any better? We only need a dark labyrinth. Some more traps and enigmatic puzzles. Oh! And let's not forget the unforgettable end boss at the end of the dungeon. Maybe, some more hopeless situation? And let's not forget to add the backstabbing betrayal in the end, please? They confidently would make the "delving into the dungeon with strangers" experience complete."

What more he needed to happen today to confidently say: Yes! This is my worst day!

'Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam! Bam!'

One of the golems recovered their huge sword, trampling over any zombies who got in the way. The second raised its magic gun, releasing a few shots towards the invaders.

"Someone, save me! Saitama!"

[ドドド Rumble! Rumble! Rumble!ドドド]

Unfortunate to King's despairing cry of help, the bald hero didn't appear as usual.

The most that happened was Saitama scratched his egg head in another world, feeling as if some strange power pulled him, but he resisted, dismissing it as a gust of wind.

Instead of the bald hero coming, King's body moved instinctively, tackling away Raphtalia from the trajectory of the shot!

"Tha-Thank you!"

"No problem. But be careful, those shots can instakill." Or, King judged them dangerous enough not to try to block.

His build might be of a tank now — if he considers typical RPG settings — but he was still not confident enough to block high caliber gunfire. They could simply tear him to shreds, wearing armor or not mattered little.

"What should we do?"

Raphtalia jumped away from the attack of the golem, rolling and slicing up several zombies. King did the same but bashing, not willing to risk being annihilated by the gunfire.

"Damn! Those shots can put a hole in a building!" Judging from the sizable crater they left behind.

'Bang!'

Not to speak, these things were not afraid to hit the tomb. But judging how all the attacks simply bounced down from the stone, it must be made from really sturdy, or enchanted material.

"Hah! Hah!"

'Clang!'

"Guuh!"

Raphtalia was thrown away by a simple swing of the sword-bearing giant, making her arm crack from the sheer brute force behind the swing.

"They are too strong!"

"Hmm…"

"My Lord? Any idea?"

"I may have… work with me." King's brain rattled, trying to come up with the proper strategy to correct their overwhelming disadvantage. "Miss Scarlet, how are you holding?"

They tried to keep the creatures away from her as much as possible. Fortunately, these things were more occupied with the bigger threat, than really caring about the girl who was on to open the door.

"It also helps she put up that barrier around herself. Clever." This showed her experience with this place. "A brownie point to her. She has proved to be better than the usual: Protect the VIP mission NPC."

Of course, this did not mean King was not angry. Those golems coming to life once more probably was her fault.

"A few moments! This is harder than I thought… That damn key didn't fit right! The combination is also off!"

"Figures…" She said "a few moments" before. Now she asks more? Just what kind of game she played?

"I feel like we ended up with an escort mission this time." The type every player hated in RPGs.

The type where you had to follow those slow NPCs through the map. NPCs who usually go through a monster-infested area because why not? Drawing agro from far and attacking everything in range, and when you sit down to recover, from out of nowhere, enemies appear to attack poor fella.

"The worst type of mission…" Not to mention, once they were distracted, they ran into the enemy camp, then went back to the original position, just to annoy you!

"If not dying first, of course."

"In that case! We need to draw them to attack each other." King came up with a plan under his mental rambling. Albeit, even he doubted it would work at all.

"You mean?" Raphtalia blinked confused, dodging another strike.

"Oi! You, big ugly! I am here! You hear me?!"

[ドドド Rumble! Rumble! Rumble!ドドド]

King felt so stupid! Why does he do this?! What's with him doing this!?

"No! Stupid hand! Put back that undead!"

Yet, his hand moved to throw the undead against the golem with the sword.

"It didn't react!"

He was so stupid!? Why did he expect something to happen?! Why did he think this will be enough?!

"I don't really want to get close to that thing."

From how big and cumbersome that sword it wielded looked, and that magical light it released, he was sure, even with all his durability, he would be sliced up in no time.

"Chirp! Chirp!"

"You are not helping!" The bird who still clamped on King's head chirped fiercely, pointing at the golem almost as if she wanted to order him around.

"Now that I think about it, I didn't even give her a name. Giving names is the hardest part." The Shield Hero tried to distract his mind from the obviously awful situation, barely avoiding another attack.

"Whoah!" he barely rolled away from another devastating shot, stumbling forward before managing to regain his balance.

"Lord King!"

"What to do? What to do?" He sweated profoundly

The plan was there, but will it actually work? Do these things have some mechanism that may block them from attacking each other?

King's attention to minor details completely dulled his senses, so much that he was before the gun wielding mecha before he was able to realize it.

Even dodging all the shots and enemies in his way while his senses were dull seemed to be miraculous for all who watched him. The Strongest Man on Earth ran through the field like some pro soccer player — carrying the egg ball through the lines of defense to score a touchdown!

"Amazing!" Raphtalia gaped, seeing those agile movements despite being under constant fire, moreover wearing that cumbersome armor! It was truly something worthy of the legendary Shield Hero! Her master and Lord! Her savior was truly amazing!

"Ah!" King only realized too late, that the thing already raised its gun to his face, starting to charge another, annihilating energy blast.

"Eiii!"

[ドドド Rumble! Rumble! Rumble!ドドド]

His heart went into overdrive, trying to get out of the range of the terrible cannon! Bashing it with his shield was useless. It didn't even tickle the thing! His legs are stuck in the mud, he can barely move!

"How the hell did I run here anyway!? This mud is all sticky!"

"Ah!" At the same time, Raphtalia also got herself into a tight situation. Surrounded by the undead, her leg grabbed by an enemy she cut down previously, the sword-wielding mecha was on to strike her down!

"Whaaa!" King continued to roar both in desperation and fear. His "battle scream" resonated with the surrounding. His pounding heart made further shooting instruments emerge from the being's armor, all aimed at his pitiful form!

"It is the end! I will not survive this time! Someone! Save me!"

If not him, at least, Raphtalia should survive this! Yes! If he just stuck his arm into that cannon, he will die, surely, but it may give Raphtalia the time to flee!

"I need to do it!" First, he was confident, but in the end, he suddenly pulled his hand back. Just in time, as in the next moment, a powerfull shoot was released.

"N-No! My arm will surely be blown off if I do that! And surely, whatever projectile this thing shoots will be cut right through me!" Then what to do? What to do? What to do?

The only thing he can do is to try to redirect the shoot by raising that turret! No! The whole thing! Trying to block it? Hell no! He was not confident his legendary weapon was that strong yet!

"Ughhh!" It didn't budge, it was all useless! He was useless! "What would Saitama do? "What would Saitama do?" Only these things circulated in his mind.

"Saitama would just blow this thing away, or shrug off their shot. Wait! I know! I will just dodge when it shoots!" Dodge? Really!? That was his great plan? He can barely jump away thanks to this muddy ground, not to speak it was too close! Was this heroic nonsense also frying his brain?

"Chirp! Chirp!"

"O-Oi! What are you doing?" The little bird which still clamped on King's head under all this ordeal decided to take action. Despite all the fear King felt, the small thing gathered her courage and charged towards the head of the being, covering its visor. King followed suit, climbing up on the head of the golem annoyed.

"Eiii!"

The golem raised its huge cannon, starting to release shoots randomly in the environment, spinning all around as its vision was blocked.

King used tooth and nail not to fly away in this deadly spin and stay on the thing!

Miraculously, the guns that emerged from the body of this mechanical protector also failed to hit him, degrading the owner's body with each shot as they tried to get rid of the annoying pest that was the Shield Hero, clamping on their owner tight.

"I will… puke!"

The massive barrage of shots decimated everything! From the undead, entirely to the sword-wielding mecha. All were hit by this relentless barrage.

'Bang!' One of the shots involuntarily hit the arm of the second golem, blowing it off, and ricocheting the humongous magical sword away.

The giant enchanted arm rotated in the air with a neck breaking speed — just before it could strike down the desperate Raphtalia.

"Gotcha!" King barely grabbed the small bird and jumped down before "Democles Sword" beheaded and embedded inside the gun golem, crashing it to the ground on its knees, head missing, replaced by the giant blade.

"Don't do this again…"

"Chirp!" It doesn't sound good, King can tell it.

Looking around after the firing continued for several long seconds, King sighed in relief.

"Whew! I need a good sleep… I am too old for this hero stuff." He was already exhausted. This excitement was too much for a day. "I just want to fall into the bed, and wake up in my cozy apartment."

Maybe Saitama waking him up to borrow a game, or play a few rounds wouldn't be so bad.

"Chirp! Chirp!" Of course, the small thing agreed — whether it can read mind or not, King was not sure. But it seemed, his birdy companion understood what King felt.

"Are you alright, little one?"

"Chirp!" And the bird answered in kind.

"Please don't do this again."

"Chirp!"

"Eh… that's my luck." King probably interpreted the bird's words like: I promise nothing!

"We did it Lord King! You once again did it! You defeated them!"

"Defeated what?" Once again, the strongest shield was baffled by what Raphtalia spoke about, not even recognizing that almost all the undead lay in pieces. Even the two golems are in a ruined state.

One having been blown to pieces, the second has a huge magical sword embedded in its head, body full of holes — damage suffered by its own side weapons.

"Well, it is done! Opening the door!" Scarlet announced. Seemingly surviving the whole event without even a scratch. Quite suspicious if you asked King.

"Of course, she opens it only at the end…" How typical.

Like in some goddamn mission when the NPC was only able to open that damn door when you killed all the trash first and cleaned the room.

"Whew! Quite the job you did in the background while I worked. It seems the wild tales are true about the Shield Hero."

King at this point only shrugged. He wanted to choke those words in her throat or whoever came up with those wild stories about him.

"I don't even want to hear those absurd stories anymore." Bearing with the crap he receives back home was enough already.

"Is everyone alright?" He asked, walking towards his group.

"I-I think I am fine." Raphtalia checked herself again.

"I am glad then." he was really glad though. Now, he only needs to convince Scarlet to give up this nonsense mission and pay something for his service.

"Hmm… ladies and heroes, let me present to you, the famed Tomb of Drednacht, the Dread." Pushing one more stone on the entrance, the whole structure shook, revealing a deep, abyss of black darkness that emerged once the door revealed the contents of this place.

"So dark…" Too dark for his taste.

"Follow me, it is time to delve in, and find the treasure."

"Don't you think it is unwise to proceed deeper after this? Is it really worth it?" After facing these things, King was unsure if they should go deeper. "I mean, we barely survived this. And this was only the entrance."

Who knows what more awaits them here? He was sure, it was only the surface of the defense. The traps inside surely will be more arduous to pass.

"But we are already there! Besides, you…"

"M-My Lord… is that normal?"

"Huh?"

While they spoke, the two golems already started to get themselves together.

Missing limbs crawling back, the gun golem grabbing the sword in its head, trying to get out. Blown off armor pieces regenerating like they were made from flesh.

"Are you serious?!" Just what more do they need to finally put them down?

"Best retreat while we can. Before they can…"

"Splendid! Follow me then!"

"Lord King, better follow her!"

Now, this girl too wants to follow her into that dark tomb?! Isn't she the one who was so afraid to come here?

"Chirp?"

"I hate my life…" Seeing as the golems almost repaired themselves, they had little choice in the matter.

"Shit! Get down!" And seeing another barrage of shots flying towards them from the still regenerating gundam, the only way remained to tackle them forward, starting to roll down on the stairs that dotted the entrance.

"I can't believe it…"

"Lord King?"

Though they only rolled a few steps down, the door behind them already sealed itself once again. Leaving them no other way just forward.

"Even now, I hear the blasting sounds coming from outside."

Trying to open the door just a little bit also was impossible. It was too heavy to move even with his new strength, nor did he find any activation mechanism inside.

"Let me guess, it can't be opened from inside." King deadpanned as he looked at Scarlet.

"Nope! I guess, now you have to follow through with the mission."

That cocky smile Scarlet gave them… King hated it with all his being!

"Figures…"

"Ah! Don't be like that! Aren't you having fun? For someone like you, this mission is like a cakewalk!"

"…"

It wasn't! It was more like a hell walk!

"Come, let's not waste more time here."

With the only entrance sealed behind them, the only thing they can do is follow their mysterious contractor. Where will she take them? Even King can only guess, and fear where they end.

---

Scene Change: Somewhere in the Countryside:

"Princess, are you sure it is alright to leave with so few guards?"

"It can't be helped; I just can't take all of my mother's honor guard."

Sitting in an elegant carriage, Melty Q Melromarc headed towards her destination, facing her, an assistant her mother gave to her side.

"Hmm, and you really think just the two of us can find that man, Princess?"

"Mother gave the order, so it must be done. Besides, father also wanted to see me. For that we also need to return to the capital."

"That might be true, but we are still a considerable time away from the castle town, not to mention the dangers this route carries are still too profound for my taste. I ask you once more, princess, it is still not too late, let's turn back and request more escorts. Choose a different path. Bandits, stray monsters or other rogue elements might attack us if we continue on this path."

"I am well aware of the danger of this route." Not accidentally, her mother insisted on being as fast as possible. She can't make an exception! Be it dangerous or not! Her duty called, and the princess obliged!

"But being mother is too occupied with keeping the negotiations afloat, it is my duty to seek out the Shield Hero, and convince him to work together with us."

Even if it cost her dignity. Yes, her mother warned her, she may have to use her womanly charms to make the man bend.

"According to mother, powerful men are usually lustful."

Some even have taste for little girls. For that unruly case, her mother prepared her.

"I really hope the Shield Hero will be satisfied with me. For the sake of our country." Or, it would be even better if he would be a truly heroic figure, who understands her concerns and acts honorable. Accepting her request to negotiate.

"Princess, is something wrong?"

"Nothing…" Glancing out the window, Melty gave away a solemn sight, watching the wild Filolials running race with each other on the wild steppes.

Just watching those innocent, fluffy animals really calmed her simmering, concerned mind.

"It is nothing."

"Hmm, in that case, why don't we continue your studies while we are travelling? Maybe that will…"

"Hooo!"

"What's the matter?" The carriage shook when they abruptly stopped. Even the shock absorption enchantments can't fully neutralize the sudden break.

"Please stay inside Princess, we will take care of this." Looking out, one of the guards warned her, motioning to get back.

Though, that didn't stop the princess from taking another glance.

"Give us way, we are escorting her royal highness, Melty Q Melromarc."

"Hah! As if we'd believe it!"

"Still, look, that's the royal seal on that carriage."

"Don't be fooled, it might be a trap."

"I won't say again! If you don't move, we will make you! This is our last warning!"

Both sides aimed their weapons at each other.

One side is her family's faithfull royal guards who sworn to protect the royal family — even if it cost their life. Another party was the demi-human caravan who faced them.

The demi-humans gritted their teeth, raising their weapons. Weapons both consisting proper swords, spears and arms, and simple farming tools — as far the princess can tell it from a mere look.

"As if! You won't deceive us again!"

"Yes, we will not fall for your tricks!"

"Again?" The leader of the royal guards raised his brow, looking around confused before focusing back to his objective. "Doesn't matter! If you don't move, we will make you! Men! Raise your weapons!"

"What's the meaning of this?"

"Princess?" Melty had enough! Despite being asked to stay inside, she jumped out of her carriage to investigate the source of the commotion.

She was a brave girl — or some might consider her foolish — considering the danger.

"Lady Melty, please, go back to the carriage, it is dangerous out there."

"It is really, the Princess…"

"Really?" Some of the demi-humans recognized her.

"How do you know that?"

"There are a bunch of figures and paintings about the royal family sold by those scammer shopkeepers."

"Oh! I remember. I also sold a bunch of them for those crazy fans. Easy money from those fools who brought them."

"Damn! Some people have really twisted tastes."

"Just how many types of things you bartered with?"

"No wonder you were put into a prison and enslaved, you damn scammer."

"Hey! A man and his family had to eat. Besides, this scammer showed you the way through that cave. Show some respect!" The fox demi-human argued back against the wild accusation.

"The cave we almost…"

As this senseless verbal fight continued, Melty started to grow impatient. Even her eyes twitched, considering interrupting them despite it was highly inappropriate.

"Princess, say the word, and we will take them out."

"No, it is not necessary. I will address them myself."

"Understood."

"People, I, Princess…."

"What do you mean by that?!"

"Just as I said!"

"People…!" Though Melty's eye ticked hearing this senseless chatter that continuously cut her monologue, she still kept her cold, royal demeanour — all thanks to her immense restraint taught by her mother.

"I just…"

"Shut up! As if you know better!"

Yet, like everything, even she has her limit.

"WILL YOU LISTEN TO ME!?"

"Huh?" In the end, her screeching earned the right result.

"What?"

"Finally." Though her outburst was unfit for her position, she was sure her mother would understand her if she were in the same position.

"Though, she would have handled the situation more elegantly." Befit to the queen of the nation of course.

In time, she is certain she will learn to act like her mother. But now, she is still only ten. Such blunder might be allowed considering her age — even for the next in the line.

"Who are you? Why are you standing in our way?"

They were a ragtag group of demi-humans at first sight. With several carriages they mounted their wares behind them — Equipment those not entirely fitting their current makeup.

"Did they steal those things?"

Such thoughts ran through her mind at first.

This big group of demi-humans wore mostly rags, yet carried a surprisingly big amount of quality weapons.

"And let's not speak about the numerous wares on those carriages."

She even considered they were some bandit clan who kept those children hostage. But seeing them pushing them back so they could protect them more effectively, that's not likely the case.

"We are refugees, fleeing from Melromarc, Princess." In the end, it was an elder who walked forth, standing between the armed sides.

"Fleeing?" Melty blinked surprised. "Why so? I know my country's treatment towards demi-humans could be better, but we are on to improve the…"

"Lies!"

"Tell that to our dead relatives and children!"

"It is the royal family that brought this on us!"

"Such impudence…! Princess, please give the order and I…"

"What are you speaking about?" Melty raised her hand, stopping her guard to act out rashly — Though, she was still confused about what these people spoke about.

"I think; it would be best to tell you about it, Princess, in more detail. If you would allow us to explain."

The old man spoke after a long sigh.

From his eyes, and hunched stature, it was obvious he experienced quite a lot. The deep wrinkles on his face and body told he suffered quite a lot reaching this point. Even his greying fur and dropping dog ears told about his experience.

"We are stopping here to rest. Princess, if you will. It is a long story, you better listen while seated."

Though still confused, the princess agreed, ordering her people to prepare some seating for the two sides, listening to the old man attentively as he told her their journey to this country.

A detailed story, which in the end filled her with rage, and disbelief.

"But that can't be true! Father would never…!"

"Be it true or not, thats what the Slave Trader announced when he detained us." Just what he told the Shield Hero, all in order to deter him from taking action. A truly despicable move, no matter which party used the tactic or the simple, hard truth.

"That man…"

The old demi-human clenched his hands around his staff, looking down, tears of sorrow, pain and gratitude welling up in his tired eyes.

"We were lucky the Shield Hero turned up that day. We are truly fortunate that he was a man who cannot be swayed by mere threats, bargain or compromises. A man of honour. If not for him, most of us would already be sold who knows where. Worse, ending up dead due to the harsh circumstances." Though, you can ask many which was worse: Being dead, or being alive as a slave.

"You say, you met the Shield Hero?!" Melty's eyes widened. This was the perfect chance to gather some info about the man! For a moment, she even forgot what the old man said about that decree the slave trader held and the unfortunate circumstances these people were forced into.

"Oh! Indeed! We met him. In fact, he was the one who saved us." The elder wiped his eyes, taking a deep breath to ease his strained body.

"Re-Really?" The young princess couldn't decide if it was, or not a surprising outcome after hearing a few details from her mother. Tales, those depicted the man as some otherworldly being, who cannot be tricked or overcome!

"Tell me more about him!"

"Hmm…" Measuring the petite girl, the old man smiled warmly at the small girl, nodding kind. "Very well." This kind of enthusiasm made him remember his daughter. How could he say no to her?

"The Shield Hero…" How should he start such tale? That was the hardest part. Especially if it comes to such an exceptional man like the current Hero of the Shield.

"Truth to be told, in my long life I never met a hero like him. Fearless, yet kind. Fierce, yet disciplined. Crafty, yet you may never tell looking at him. Not only did he see through the trap which these ruffians set, but even defeated the lesser army of mercenaries who attacked him afterwards. His drums of liberation shook the whole world, echoed through the whole canyon, destroying his opponents, tearing the walls of slavery down. Yet sparing all of us, just as he intended."

Even remembering that sound filled the elder with dread, yet hope. Fearing his life ever facing the man, but, would do anything to be his ally in a time of need.

Yes, such an effect was perceived by everyone back there. Be they were amongst the demi-humans or the hired mercenaries of the trader who the Hero and his companion soundly defeated.

No people were left unaffected meeting them.

"Dru-Drums of liberation?" Whatever it was, it made Melty tremble in anticipation and fear. It sounded both awesome and awful when she considered it can be used against her country.

"The mysterious sound which echoed through the whole canyon, burying a lesser army of the mercenary band, and made the rest flee, even giving up any resistance. Truly, that sound… cannot be described otherwise. Like the heartbeat of the world. Like the wrathful drums of war and freedom!"

As the old man wiped his tearful eyes again, Melty gulped, hearing this story. The image of some kind of unbeatable monster started to outline in her mind. Her hours reading heroic stories really made her imagination run wild.

"Truly, I have never seen something like this before." Gulping slightly, the elder stiffened for a moment. "That man is more than meets the eye. No weapon can strike him. No enemy can stand in his way and hope to triumph afterwards. Not to speak he was beyond humble, and heroic above all. Willing to run into the danger to save his companion. Even sparing the surviving mercenaries, all while keeping us all safe. Despite what they have done, he gave the mercenaries the chance to start again. A man who sees your past by just looking at you. The good in you, yet your mistakes. Just meeting his gaze, that stoic, yet warm light in his eyes moved something in all of us. Something, that nudged that inner part that makes us people, and pushes us towards the right path…"

"Pft! What nonsense…" one of the royal guards muttered, earning a scolding side glare from Melty.

"The Shield Hero, before parting with us, gave us all the wealth he could spare, and escorted us through the border…!"

And the listing of good qualities and impossible accomplishments that only fit for some absurd hero novel went on. In the end, both the old man and the people on his side were in tears. Naturally, Melty's guards were mostly skeptical, thinking all of this was nothing more than wild tales, some fabrication — as not even a hero from an absurd novel can do this much under such a short time.

"Truly?" Melty found no words.

"Truly! My body boils with the blood of youth even thinking about it! I feel I am renewed just thinking about our meeting with that Hero!" The elder jumped up, making a few stabs with his cane before his back cracked. "Agh! My back!" He was quickly helped back to his seat by the youth nearby.

"…"

Melty tilted her head, trying to process what she heard.

From her mother, she heard some glimpse of what to expect. But what this old man said even surpassed that. It was like some absurdly heroic figure from some book she read. A man who had all the positive qualities, but little to no negative characteristics.

A character the writer only made so it can symbolize all which the young hero strived to be, but can never possibly achieve under just a few books worth of adventure.

Almost too boring, but this demi-human made it sound exciting! Almost too exciting for her faint heart!

A person she even dreads to meet, fearing she would be inferior, or unworthy to bask in his presence.

"That's the truth." The leader of the demi-humans breathed slightly, hitting his back with his fist. This much excitement was too much for his old bones.

"Or, this is what this old man witnessed, and the youngsters speak about."

With a big sigh, the elder finished his story. He looked exhausted, seemingly, recalling this wild tale was a little too much for his advanced age.

"Please forgive me, Princess. I am not like in my younger days."

"It is no problem, please take your time." Giving a kind nod, she ordered her nearby servant to pour some tea, and prepare something to nibble on. This information alone was enough to warrant such treatment.

"I am sorry, what happened with your people." Melty lowered her head, clenching her fingers and wrinkling her elegant skirt. "If I can do anything to make up for… if you just come back with me, we could confront father even. Maybe, this was just a misunderstanding. Maybe, a plot to make the royal family look bad…"

She was sure, with the authority given by her mother, she could make even her father comply, and explain what happened. Maybe, he can shed some light into this conspiracy that tried to paint her family in a bad light.

"Surely, this was some misunderstanding and that slave trader spouted. Something that tries to make my family look bad."

Melty believed with all her heart, her father was anything but cruel.

"Father might be becoming a little bit soft recently — according to mother. But he always kept what's best for his people in mind."

"I am afraid, that's not possible, Princess."

"Why? If you just…?"

"We came too far." The elder raised his hand, shaking his head slowly. "After all we have been through. After what most of us experienced, and after the wave. I doubt anyone wishes to return to Melromarc."

Everyone who wished, already departed before the border — Only a few of them though, the rest decided to start a new life somewhere else.

"I understand."

"Don't fret, Princess. I am sure it is not your fault." Though he said this, some of the nearby demi-humans just shrugged in disgust. "But we need to move on, for the sake of our life. For the safety of our future. For our children. Maybe, one day some of us will return. But until your country's policy changes, it will be best for us to leave Melromarc behind for a place where we are more valued."

Though this gave no relief to Melty, she agreed deep inside.

Despite being born into that system, this treatment was just wrong.

After exchanging more information about where they parted with the Shield Hero, and what they knew about him, both sides went on their own way.

The princess and her honour guard headed to Melromarc, while the demi-humans followed their own path. Heading towards a brighter future.

"I wonder if he really is like that." Sitting in her carriage again, Melty imagined the Shield Hero, materializing as an impossibly heroic figure before her eyes.

A robust, towering figure. Gentle with his allies but merciless with his enemies, burning them with his "penance stare", while the drums played behind him.

"No! I need to concentrate! I can't let myself be distracted like that!"

Shaking her head, she returned her attention to her duty. Concentrating on the most important task at hand!

Gather as much info as she could, and make the Shield Hero treat them — if nothing else — as equal partners. Apocalypse was on the horizon; they were in this together. They needed allies!

Little did she know, her path will intertwine with the famed hero or his companion, sooner than she expects it.

---

Scene Change: In the Tomb:

King already suspected it was a huge mistake delving into this tomb! They would be a lot better fleeing, and somehow avoiding the gunfire outside than running around like a headless chicken in this dungeon!

"First undead spawning from the walls! Then traps that can crush the living hell out of us! And now this! A freaking boulder that follows us everywhere!"

At first, he thought it would be easy, as the outline and traps were quite lame, then, everything changed when this spiky boulder appeared out of nowhere and started to pursue them!

Trying to use his shield ability to slow it down was worth notch! This thing was too heavy to even slow! It just breaks through everything he threw at it!

"It is almost like my shield is less effective here."

He already recognized it outside,enemies usually both Raphtalia and he can deal with rather easily proved to be more and more troublesome as the battle raged on.

"Is it possible there is some kind of debuff field here?" Yes, as he remembers it, Scarlet mentioned something like that.

"Suuh…!"

It would certainly explain how so many people died outside — aside the two… no, three murderous robots waiting for them as guard dogs!

"The third must have fell into an irreparable state." Or the system which controlled it deemed them not enough of a threat to activate it.

It doesn't matter anyway, what mattered was King's deep desire to get out from there!

"I can't activate my Shield's teleport function."

Not while the system thought they were in combat, not while it was on cool down!

"Anyway, it is an unstuck function at best. Not real teleportation…"

According to the help section which his legendary weapon provided — and the skill tree — some kind of "real" teleportation shield can be unlocked for fast travel. But the system gave him no instruction on how to unlock it yet.

"The most this limited function can give is to send us near previously visited places — nearby."

He meant near previously visited places totally randomly!

It either drops them out in the air to fall to their death, or throws them into a monster nest. All of it in exchange losing all the experience points they gathered on that level.

"Which means, we need to start from starch to gain experience to reach the next level."

That's exactly why he didn't use this function at all — since he knows these things! It wasn't meant to be used for fast travel at all!

Moreover, losing all those hard-earned experience points, and being dropped from who knows how high because this "small" detail was not included in that "help" was enough to reconsider using it as the last means to get back to the path.

"We need to do something!" Scarlet gritted her teeth, running on King's side. "Do something!"

Do something? It is easier said than done!

If not concentrating to avoid the undead in their way, the occasional traps and keeping his distance from the rolling death behind them, he would say something very vulgar to the woman.

[ドドド Rumble! Rumble! Rumble!ドドド]

His heart rumbled as he burned through his stamina reserves ever rapidly.

Since coming here, his endurance improved greatly. But it was still far from being limitless!

"Fighting was fine, for a while. But I still hate running." Especially doing so in this cumbersome armour proved to be extra arduous. "Or, is it because there is some kind of debuff or leach field here?" He seriously considered those options. Feeling how ineffective their weapons were overall, and how much he started to tire, that was definitely something to consider.

"My Lord! If we don't do something…" Raphtalia bit her lip concerned, cutting down another skeleton that emerged from the ground.

"I know…"

There must be a way out!

No sane designer would create an unbeatable dungeon!

"At least, no one who wishes to challenge the players, but also wants them to pass struggling."

In that regard, he might need to reconsider that statement.

Maybe, the creators wanted to keep out the invaders as much as possible, giving them no chance to survive, and tell their tale for others.

"Everything looks the same, and I have a bad feeling we are running in circles."

Walls are the same. Ceiling and flooring, the same, barely anything they can use as navigation points. Even the undead probably disappear, traps reset after they passed the area.

Only one thing was continuous, the repeating symbols above them.

"They are almost like a series of numbers, repeating over and over again."

King's gamer brain activated, trying to find any order in this chaotic mess of a dungeon!

There must be a way! A system or anything! Maybe a switch?

"Even if the dungeon was made to be as deadly as possible, the creators must have left some way so they may safely pass it, or make maintenance! A maintenance tunnel maybe? Or some code that deactivates everything."

That was his only hope.

"Miss Scarlet, any idea?"

"I don't know, I never reached this far before."

"Which means, she tried to breach this place before." But why was he surprised? She said it herself, others also came to conquer this place — all without success though.

"But the heroes of old built this place, surely, you have some idea. Can't you use your shield to find a way?"

"Get out of my hair, woman! How should I know what to do?! I am trying hard enough already! Don't put all the work on me!"

'Bam!' Another undead was bashed away by his shield. Hitting the wall. The wall, which strangely rippled. Almost like it was some illusion.

"Hmm… wait a moment."

As his group ran across the copy-pasted halls, King can't help but his eyes pick up some strangeness.

Thus, he did it again! Another undead smashed on the walls, making them partially fall through it and ripple it like some liquid.

"Is it some kind of illusion?"

"Let's see…" Recovering his purse, King started to flick coins left and right, making the walls ripple again and again.

"Lord King?! What are you doing?!" Just what her Lord thinks wasting money right now!? They need to concentrate on their escape!

"How odd, the sound is different…" Sometimes, the coin simply fell farther than the wall was, which implied some kind of route hidden behind this illusion.

"It already felt odd. Like we're running in circles."

A pattern that may even be invisible to most started to take shape in King's mind.

He, who managed to memorize the countless amounts of animation, music and every other kind of pattern in order so he may beat the toughest of opponents. Recognizing something like this was child play.

"Combining the symbols above with the sound…" It all led to the solution that will lead them out there!

"Pam, pam, pam, Pam Pimpi pam…"

Like a rhythm, resembling some kind of combo you need to input in order to activate the secret level — or ability — that kind of pattern started to realize in King's head.

"Interesting…"

"My Lord?"

"Raphtalia, on my mark! Take a left turn!" Even he was not sure his defence will be enough to protect him once that spiky boulder behind them catches up with them, less he expected Raphtalia and Scarlet to survive such a rolling encounter.

It was a gamble. They will pay the price dearly if they lose and he was wrong.

"If I am wrong, we will be crushed to mincemeat. Kami, if you are up there, please, help me!"

"But…"

[Pam, pam, pam, Pam Pimpi pam…]

"Rectangle, circle, animal…" Combining the symbols and the sounds in his head, King made his move!

"Now!"

"Chiirp!"

Following King's order, all three of them took a sharp turn.

Raphtalia closed her eyes. She trusted her Lord with all her being. But before her very gaze, there was a rock-solid wall. All her senses and instinct screamed she will collide with it, worse, that boulder will crush her to pieces!

Yet, when she opened her eyes, they were in a different corridor by design.

"I knew it! My Lord was right!" But why was she surprised? She should smack herself for not trusting King enough.

"We did it!"

"Don't stop! It is not over!" As expected, behind them, the seemingly sentient boulder took a sharp turn, following them, increasing their speed.

"Again!"

The symbols were different in this section, of course, forcing the Strongest Man on Earth to start his calculation again.

[Pam, pam, pam, Pam Pimpi pam…!]

"Again!"

Once more, they penetrated the illusionary walls, and as before, the symbols near the ceiling changed.

Then again, the game changed difficulty, making the symbols engraved to the flooring, then all around the corridor, sometimes even moving randomly, making it extremely hard to find them right away!

"Dammit! It is all random now! I can't find a good pattern!"

After several more turns, King reached the limit of his ability to find a good pattern.

By nature, he always tests his theory multiple times before giving it a nod.

As such, until now, they managed to avoid falling into the trap of going with his hunch, and go on with the first sensible pattern he finds.

But now, it is all random! No sense behind it!

"My Lord… I am starting to…" Hearing how haphazardly Raphtalia breathed, he already knew they didn't have much left. Even he barely managed to keep himself going.

"I… can't…"

In all sudden, Scarlet collapsed, running out of breath.

"Lord King, Miss Scarlet fell!"

"Shit!" His heart pounded in his throat, his vision going blurry from the sheer blood pressure, his blood circulated in his veins ever intense — making veins pop out from all around his body.

"He-Help!" The girl barely raised her hand, out of stamina completely. If he doesn't do something, she will die!

King had to decide, leave her and survive, or go back and die!

"According to the pattern I managed to find, there is a chance the wall near her is illusory."

Of course, the chance is one to ten.

"Normally, I wouldn't risk it…" But Raphtalia was already there, helping her up.

"Damn that girl…"

"Chirp?"

No choice remained! King hated himself doing this, but this, or running alone in this scary place.

He rather chooses being plastered with them than running in circles alone — no matter how stupid it sounded.

"Grab on me!"

"Ahhh!"

Dashing over them, King grabbed the two girls by the collar dragging them after himself.

"Please, be this one! Lady luck! Help me out!"

Though, he by nature was not a religious person. In fact, thought of himself as someone who God despised in some way — throwing him into more and more dangerous situations, just to pull him out at the last moment — King still murmured a small prayer under his breath at this moment.

[ドドド Rumble! Rumble! Rumble!ドドド]

"Ahhh!"

Releasing his mighty "battle cry", he closed his eyes, running at the wall with full speed.

Will he survive? Or will the wall and the spiky boulder be his, and his companions' last memory? Read further and find out!

---

A/N:

Well, this is it!

The first chapter of the double chapter after such a long hiatus!

(The second part is already typed, coming after I skimmed it, and my ferocious proofreader gnaws through it! )

I hope it is all worth the wait! (sorry about the slowness and lack of release recently. As usual, work, lack of muse, and other stuff blocked the way of the creative process…)

In the next chapter:

Our heroes will descend deeper in the abyss!

What will they find? Can King face this dreadful place and all the horrors it holds?

An Overwhelming presence, which will penetrate the boundaries of the worlds, an ancient threat… the enemy of all things!

What does the future hold for King? Read further and find out!

RnR!

Read and Review!

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Good night! Good morning! Have a nice day! Safe sail and take care!

Stay away from nasty stuff!

Until next time!

Oblivon2991 out!