I do not own Rising of the Shield Hero
I want to once again give thanks to Comrade Broseph for help edit this chapter and adding details to it, thank you very much for co-writing this chapter with me and sorry I kept you up late at night! Also thanks to Fluffball13 for reading my first draft to make sure I stay on the right direction.
The update schedule is weekly update on the weekends to keep consistent quality. Also, Author's Note at the end for people who want to see me blabber more.
Several hours after her scouting of the Cardinal Weapon wielders is complete, Malty is sitting behind a large mahogany desk in her luxurious en-suite room at the inn she and the Shield Hero have decided to stay at. The inn itself is the most expensive one in town, catering primarily to well off merchants, high level adventurers and even the occasional noble. Although most of the latter would rather use the chance to stay at the castle in order to be close to the proceedings of the royal court. But not all had the opportunity or the royal favor to be given lodgings there and such exquisite accommodations as Malty's current room were exactly for such an occasion.
Providing supplies such as ink, quills and parchment was also commonplace for the best rooms of such an establishment as her current inn of residence. Hence at the moment the red princess is nibbling on the end of her quill, while staring intently at the sheet of parchment spread before her. In each corner there is a drawn circle designating a particular Hero. Each 'Hero-Circle' has various different lines stretching from it labeled with the pros and cons of their respective personalities.
When presented with several options and in doubt about which one to chose, write down all of the known information about each. Then based on the amount of negative attributes start crossing out the worst options one by one. Whatever is left last is the best course of action, even if not ideal.
That's the advice her father gave to her years ago. Days like these it really tends to come handy.
She crosses out the circle for the Spear Hero first. It's easy to follow around someone who doesn't let a woman fight and smooch off easy exp to level up, but the buffoon is no use to her later plans. With his complete lack of tact or basic human intelligence, she will be at a fierce disadvantage if her sister or some duke's daughter get to the heart of a better hero first.
Mein gives a short pause and crosses out the circle for the Sword Hero next. The Sword Hero already looks down on her for having a low level. While that would not be such a problem on it's own, he is also clearly arrogant and self absorbed, meaning that rather than be protective of her because of her lack of strength he'd instead deride her for it. He'd also be unwilling to take anyone's advice into consideration when making decisions. Granted, she is confident that given time she could drive at least basic etiquette into the Sword Hero's skull, but by the time she does his blunt personality would already alienate her from every possible political ally, probably even before the next Wave hits.
The incognito princess dips the quill into the ink bottle again. She narrows her eyes down at the two circles sitting at opposite corners of her parchment. It comes down to a coin toss between the Bow Hero and the Shield Hero.
The Bow Hero's rather... excited outburst in the restaurant is worrisome. He looked almost... damaged, when he ranted about being an 'Ally of Justice' earlier. Mein wonders at what could possibly cause such an obsession. It can certainly become rather problematic if The Bow Hero has his outburst at an inopportune time.
However, having had time to recover from what transpired earlier and mull it over, the undercover princess is confident that she can deal with it if she chooses the Bow Hero. After all, if she can heal whatever caused the Bow Hero's desperate cry for help, she is sure to become his most valued person in this world. If she manages that all she'd need to do is to ride the Bow Hero's cushy coattail all the way to becoming the next Queen of Melromarc.
From a certain point of view even their ambitions match up! After all, what could be a greater injustice than one child being overlooked in favor of a sibling because of something completely out of their control? And even if her younger braty sister somehow still manages to become the next queen by securing the support of another hero, with the Bow Hero's bloodline running through Malty's children she is guaranteed to at the very least become a Duchess.
Even if The Bow Hero's dream is rather exotic and might not sit well with some of those that are abusing their power, she would still have the backing of the king and most of those established noble families that are faithful to the teachings of the Three Heroes Church.
Mein gives it a short pause. She draws a line from the Bow Hero and connects it to a smaller circle. Yes, the Three Heroes Church certainly needs to be considered. And therein lies the primary issue. She closes her eyes and thinks back to that raving knight in the Listening Room. It seems as if with every day more and more like him are getting positions as royal knights stationed at court. And that's just the tip of the iceberg, some of her father's closest advisers have shown signs of getting very close to the Three Heroes Church, even those officially not part of the faith.
She doesn't know what the Pope of that damnable cult is planning. But if she knows one thing about men, it is that their ambition is directly proportional to their power. With the influence of the faith gaining more ground in Melromarc by the year, what's stopping the Pope from turning the ruling family into his puppets?
The undercover princess looks at the circle for the Shield Hero. She knows the Shield Hero best after spending the day with him. The young man has most of the qualities she looks for in an ally who can rule the country by her side. Not to mention that the Shield Hero being worshiped by Siltvelt and Shiltfreeden makes their potential match a great political maneuver, simply for all the leverage it would provide over Melromarc's greatest enemies.
On the other hand, at least from what she can tell, her father's plan to take care of the 'Shield Demon' is airtight. She has no real fear of any repercussions for betraying the Shield Hero either. At least for her personally. If mother comes back and interferes then Malty can truthfully claim that this whole idea wasn't even hers to begin with.
The million gold coin question is: Can The Shield Hero be strong and resourceful enough to rise against the hardships ahead, or at the very least survive till the queen's return? No doubt, if given the opportunity her mother will put her father and the damn Pope in their place to stop the looming threat of war if for nothing else.
The incognito princess returns the quill and sits down on the table. She rests her chin on her hand, looking back and forth between the two remaining circles. After a while of fruitless pondering she lets out a tired sigh, her internal debate not having resulted in a clear answer. She lazily picks up the parchment and throws it in the fireplace, stoking the flames just to make sure it burns completely. It already served its purpose in helping her organize her thoughts. Now it's probably best to be extra careful and not leave incriminating evidence.
There are only two real options left. But which one to pick? The Shield Hero is an all or nothing gamble. If she stays with the Shield Hero, she either rises together or falls into the pit of hell with him. The Bow Hero is clearly a wild-card in his own right. But he is sure to be the safer bet if she were to tame his madness and use it for her own ends.
Decisions, decisions...
Chapter 4: Allies and Enemies under the Sun
"Daddy? Mommy?"
The young princess calls quietly as she trots her way to the master bedroom of her parents. She can't go back to sleep after a nightmare, and she dearly misses her little friend. Maybe the comforting words of daddy and mommy will make it better. Sniffling, she makes her way through the halls of the dark and silent keep.
Coming closer and closer to where her parents chamber lies she starts to make out some noise. The words are unclear but she can tell that daddy and mommy are arguing. Stopping next to the door of the queen's chambers she hears daddy's angry roar coming from inside. "Absolutely NOT! How could you even suggest something like that, my queen!?"
"Why are you so against the idea, Aultcray? Surely the suggestion of consummating your marriage with me again doesn't disgust you that much." There is a certain playfulness to mommy's tone than she's familiar with. It reminds her of the honey dripping down from the sponge cakes she loves so much. "Or perhaps you fancy other men?"
"Please, don't joke like that, my queen. You know why I... why I'm against having another child. I want to see Malty grow up happy. If I have another child, I will be forced to divide my love, our love between them." Daddy sounds tired, more tired than that time he gave her piggyback rides for the whole afternoon.
But what does daddy mean by another child? She is the only child mommy and daddy have!
Mommy and daddy stay quiet for a long time. She rests her hand on their door, not able to find the strength to push it open. After what feels like an eternity, mother breaks the silence. Her voice sounds heavy. "I'm sorry. It was my fault you lost your family."
"No, you can't blame yourself forever, Mirelia. You were young. You were allowed to make mistakes."
"Not when that mistake set flame to my country and had thousands of my people killed by those Siltvelt barbarians." Mommy's voice is soft and faint, but it sounds even heavier than before. Malty feels like her knees want to give away behind the weight of mommy's words. "I'm sorry, Aultcray. I know you aren't happy living as the king of Melromarc, with all the responsibilities and dealing with those thick headed nobles. The life you wanted... it was to grow old with someone your age, have a cat on your knees, baby chicks in your yard, while surrounded by your happy children and grandchildren, wasn't it?"
"I'm here now, I'm happy with you and Malty. Everything else is... irrelevant." She pictures daddy's hand slowly wrapping around mommy's, comforting her. "Do we NEED another child, Mirelia?"
"This too is my fault. I let you dote on Malty far too much and it spoiled her." Mommy's voice slowly becomes more even, like when she's discussing what tea and pastry to serve a visiting noble for an afternoon party. But underneath the calm stately tone there is also a firmness in her words that shows she's not willing to budge. "You know what happened today. If I let Malty become the next queen, she'll bring ruin to Melromarc just like I did. I want to have another heir, someone I can groom from the start into a careful and even-handed ruler. So the tragedy that befell your first family and the families of countless others doesn't repeat for another generation."
What tragedy is mommy talking about? What does she mean about daddy having another family?
"Aren't you being too hasty, my queen? Malty is young, she's allowed to make mistakes. We can teach her to be better. What happened today could even be a valuable lesson to Malty. Not to mention, what are you going to do with Malty, if you appoint her younger sibling as your successor?"
What is daddy even talking about? She doesn't have a younger sister, or brother. Are mommy and daddy... are they trying to REPLACE her?
"Malty is too reckless to rule. But neither she will stay in Melromarc, living in the shadow of her younger sibling." A shudder runs down Malty's spine. Mommy wants to send her away somewhere? "I will contact the King of Faubley and arrange a marriage contract with him. Malty will become a consort to the most powerful monarch in the world when she is of age." There is a heavy silence in the room before daddy explodes again.
"ABSOLUTELY NOT! NO DAUGHTER OF MINE WILL MARRY THAT OLD PIG!"
"You are being unreasonable, Aultcray. You know Melromarc lost much of our power after our last war with the demihumans and the threat of a new one breaking out is ever-present. Strengthening our dynastic alliance with the most powerful nation is a necessity to keep the peace. Your brother may be old and already thrice married, but he will gladly accept Malty as a spouse and treat her well. She would be by far the most high borne of his current wives and she'll live a comfortable and lavish life even if Faubley is a patriarchy. It is a fitting arrangement for a pampered princess like her." Mommy is still speaking in a calm and measured voice but her words seem to slowly lose meaning to Malty. Does mommy not want her to be the princess anymore? Does mommy not love her?
"Please, reconsider this, my queen. You are making decisions way too early. Malty is still so young, and her younger sibling hasn't even been conceived yet. We can't tell how they'll turn out when they grow up, so I implore you to not give up on Malty. Not to mention, if you make Malty's younger sibling your heir as soon as they are born and sign a marriage contract with the Faubley King, you will divide the nobility. Half of them will pamper your new heir rotten to cozy up to the future ruler, while the other half will plot their downfall to cozy up to Malty. There could even be a war of succession! We can't let that happen to Melromarc or to our children!"
Another silence falls in the bedroom. After a while, mommy speaks with a soft sigh. "There is wisdom in your words, Aultcray. Very well, I shall reconsider my options for now. But please keep close eyes on your daughter... And you WILL give me another child. THIS is not a negotiation."
"...You'll have to forgive me for closing my eyes, My queen..."
"You are such a sentimental old fool, Aultcray. I swear that one day it will be your downfall. But that's why I love you..."
On shaky knees, Malty turns back towards her bedroom, no longer wanting to hear what mommy and daddy speak of. Halfway there she meets panicking servants looking for her. One of her nannies picks her up and quickly carries her back to her room, tucking her into bed. The soon to be elder princess pulls her legs up to her chest and curls into a ball. Silent tears begin to leak from her eyes, making her pillow wet.
Why is mommy talking about sending her far away to another country? And does daddy refuse because he doesn't want her gone, or just because he hates that 'old pig' king who is his brother?
…They must really not love her if they want her gone. They said that they want someone better instead of her… And they are going to have another child to replace her...
Huh, the silk panel isn't stopping the cold wind. She'll have the servants change it in the morning.
…She really misses her little friend…
Mein's neck hurts, her shoulders hurt, her back hurts... just about everywhere from her head to her pinky toes hurts like hell. She opens and closes her hand, attempting to run some blood through her stiff limb, trying to figure out why the most luxurious inn has such bad sleeping arrangement.
Her slender fingers brushes against hardwood instead of soft bed sheets. She lifts her head and opens her eyes, realizing she fell asleep on the desk instead of the bed.
Well, that's ten silver coins completely wasted. Unless… The bed seems to beckon her. Maybe she can convince the Shield Hero to let her sleep in for a bit longer?
At that moment the resounding bang of a door being slammed open echoes throughout the inn, causing her to jolt from the sudden noise. If she wasn't awake before she certainly is now. The noise seemingly came from the general direction of where the Shield Hero's room is supposed to be.
A moment later she hears him.
"Where are you taking me!?" The alarmed cry of the Shield Hero comes from the corridor. She can hear the clanking of weapons and loud shuffling footsteps.
"You are being brought to face the king and his court for the dastardly crime that you've committed, Shield Hero." The sneer of whoever is speaking to the Shield Hero can be heard through his nasal twine.
...Oh.
Father certainly didn't waste any time springing his trap.
Mein stands up and stretches her back. She lets out a small groan of pain as everything seems to pop back into place. The undercover princess is still sore all over from the unused fatigue of fighting all day long, followed by sleeping on a hard desk. She will just have to put on a good performance in spite of such conditions. After all, there is a trial to get to and she has Cardinal Heroes to fool and pretentious nobles to appease.
She quickly splashes some water on her face and dries it off with a towel to freshen up. The undercover princess looks at herself in the mirror. The image smirks right back at her.
Show time.
Mein quickly picks up her things that were left strewn about the room, gives it one last look over to make sure she didn't leave anything behind and opening the door runs out into the hallway. It is already filled with spectators chatting among themselves, wondering aloud as to what is going on, but they are being kept back from the supposed 'crime scene' by a handful of royal guards. The Shield Hero has already been taken away, but obviously some of her father's men remained to set up evidence and round up any potential 'witnesses.'
Now would be the ideal time to run crying to her Hero of choice. The Sword and Spear aren't anywhere in sight, but it's not like they are even options at this point. Now where is the Bow?..
Standing on her toes the princess looks over the head of the throng that assembled at the inn's hallway. She can just barely peek into the Shield Hero's room through the smashed in door. She can see one of the guards carrying what looks to be the armor that the Shield Hero purchased yesterday from that blacksmith's shop. Another seems to be stuffing the Shield Hero's cloak into a sack already half full with what she assumes are his other possessions, such as his foreign clothes. She wonders if they already took the money her father gave out to the Shield Hero yesterday. In accordance to her father's plan she was supposed to take it from the Shield Hero while he slept but it slipped her mind. There is a chance the guards would steal it and claim that they couldn't find it later. It's be a shame to lose it because of carelessness. Malty bites her lip.
Trying to shuffle through the throng she almost trips over the Bow Hero who was standing spectator midst the other patrons of the inn who came out into the hallway to gawk. Having remained unnoticed by her due to his slight height, he is nevertheless just who she was looking for. He catches her in his strong yet gentle hands as she stumbles, in a way reminiscent of what happened yesterday evening. But this time she is too weary to be flustered. She tenses and looks intently into his eyes, searching for a sign of that unhinged mania he displayed to her earlier. But they seem calm, although slightly concerned as he meets her gaze.
"Ah, pardon me for my clumsiness, Sir Bow Hero." Outwardly trying not to show any apprehension she gives him a hesitant and bashful smile. Although she supposed that looking panicked wouldn't even be out of character for her current persona at the moment, not after 'what she's been through.'
"It's quite alright, Miss Mein." The bow hero steps away and gives her a nod. "The soldiers informed me of what transpired last night. I think Kitamura and Amagi are already gone. I stayed behind a bit late to make sure I'm presentable before the king. Would you like an escort... after what has happened?"
It seems like the Bow Hero isn't having one of his 'attacks', or whatever one could call his rather violent outburst from last night. That is a good thing. Mein likes him better when he is behaving courteous. Not so much when he's raving about justice and saving lives, while looking more like he is about to go on a murder spree.
"That… that would be much appreciated, Master Kawasumi. My gratitude for you being a perfect gentleman." Mein looks away from Itsuki's eyes with a blush to play the distressed damsel. She still offers her hand to the waiting Bow Hero. The Bow Hero's companions help them clear their way through the assembled mob of people and soon they exit the inn and start moving up to the castle standing over the city.
Mein lets herself be lead by the Bow Hero the entire way. She keeps her head down to only look at her feet and the paved stone road in front of her. She only brings her gaze back up again when she feels the shadow of her home looming over her. The majestic wall looks almost like a tombstone in the darkness created by its from blocking out the sun. The gate guards raise the portcullis for them as they near, whether at the sight of the Bow Hero or because they recognize her she doesn't know. They pass through without having to utter a single word either way.
Once inside the keep they make their way directly up the parade staircase and towards the throne room, the Bow Hero holding her under her arm all the time. The large oak doors are wide open and the noise from inside the throne room is carrying throughout the entire castle. Looks like the trial is well under way and it's a very public spectacle indeed.
They hear the angry yell of The Spear Hero before setting their foot in the throne room. "Is it true, Iwatani!? Did you try to force yourself on Mein!? After she was the only one to try helping you!?"
Entering, she can see the Shield Hero who is wearing only his underclothes and is being held at spear point by the royal guard. They forced him on his knees before her father's throne and are preventing him from standing.
The Spear Hero is angrily pacing slightly to the side and is also pointing his legendary weapon at the Shield Hero, the Spear shaking in his arms, as rage visibly courses through his entire body. It's like he wants to take off the other man's head but is barely holding himself back. His normally carefree pretty face is scrunched up into a monstrous snarl.
Next to the Spear stands the Sword Hero. The brooding boy is holding his hand half way in front of the blond Hero, like he's trying to reach out and stop the Spear wielder but isn't entire sure that he wants to. He ends up letting his hand drop to his side to look back and forth between all those assembled, his eyes noting her arrival and lingering on her for a second before moving on. His impassive face settles down to look at the king with narrowed and calculating eyes.
"You have nothing to fear, Miss Mein. I will protect you and make sure Justice is served today." The Bow Hero whispers into Mein's ear. She gives a quick sideway glance to the boy who had his violent outburst about 'Justice' last night. The word clearly has some special meaning to him. Malty hopes that he isn't about to be set off again. He still looks normal rather than deranged, thankfully.
Malty thinks about this walking puzzle that's known as the Bow Hero. How can he act like a storybook hero in shining armor one moment and a mad preacher from some cult the very next? He seems composed at the moment, even though in front of him a trial is happening the result of which is supposedly going to be 'justice' being dispensed. Maybe it's less about 'Justice' and more about being an 'Ally of Justice' for some reason? Regardless, there is a time and place for such musing. Yes, just a little more acting and she'll have all the time in the world to twist the insane boy holding her arm into the perfect tool. "Thank you very much, Master Itsuki."
The lords of the upper noble houses gathered for the audience, making the prodigious room feel crowded. They exchange silent glances with each other. How they managed to all look presentable in their tailor fit extravagant suits and still arrived on time for the trial is anybody's guess.
The companions of the Sword and Spear Heroes are also present, but they are standing aside for the moment. As if not wishing to directly be implicated in the dramatic events unfolding at the foot of her father's throne. Only the Bow Hero's party that followed along behind them stayed at their chosen Heroes side.
Father, the king of Melromarc looks down at The Shield Hero through his nose like the young man from another world is something that he just peeled from his boot. His fingers twitch on the handle of his throne, alternating between trying to rip a chunk of the hardwood off or ball his hand into a fist.
One of the royal advisers is hovering next to her father. Thankfully, instead of that wormy newly appointed minister of culture from two days ago, this time it's the royal spymaster Marquis Noches that stands beside him. Lord Noches' body fidgets forward like he's about to step in and say something. He stays still however when father shoots him a withering glare.
"Your Majesty. Please! There has to be some mistake! I didn't do anything to my companion! Why would I try to hurt the only one who's helping me when I can't even fight by myself?" The Shield Hero is desperately trying to prove his innocence. It's in a way, very impressive he retains the presence of mind to make logical arguments in such a situation.
"Hey! Don't just ignore me!" The Spear Hero looks like he's about to finally jump forward and skewer The Shield Hero. A hand on his shoulder stops him. "Amagi!?"
"Iwatani has a point. It doesn't feel right that he'd assault his only ally. Not when he's a shielder." The Sword Hero gives the much older Spear Hero a stern look and shakes his head. "Not to mention that we've only heard second hand accounts of the crime from the witnesses, but haven't yet heard the so called perpetrator speak his side of the story. Maybe he has some proof that he is innocent of the crime?"
This seems to appease The Spear Hero somewhat. The enraged pretty boy leans his Spear right back on his shoulder with a muted mumble. "He'd better."
"Let's hear what he says first." The Sword Hero gives both The Spear Hero and The Bow Hero at the entrance a nod, before turning his gaze back to The Shield Hero.
It seems Mein isn't giving The Sword Hero enough credit. For all his lack of social skill, The Sword Hero seems to somewhat make it up in his ability to observe his surroundings and come to unbiased conclusions. At least compared to the idiot skirt chaser, although in fairness that's not exactly a monumental achievement.
The Shield Hero appears to become animated once more when given the ability to speak for himself. He attempts to stand again, but the guards immediately push him back down on his knees. The harsh handling isn't enough to dissuade him from speaking up in his own defense however.
"Yes! I didn't do anything inappropriate to Miss Mein during our time together! After she joined my party we went to a blacksmith's shop and then after getting some equipment spent most of the day fighting monsters outside the city! When we got to the inn I was feeling really tired after all the fighting, so I turned in early to rest, while Miss Mein stayed behind to get to know the others a bit. After I got to my room I went straight to bed and immediately fell asleep. Then the next thing I know I'm waking up as my door is being smashed in by a whole bunch of soldiers! They tied me down, shoved me in their carriage and took me here without explaining anything! I only found out what I'm being accused of just a moment ago! Listen, I don't know who accused me and for what reason, but if I tried to assault miss Mein and was seen, then wouldn't I have tried to run away after? Instead of staying in my room at the inn and waiting for the guards to drag me here in my underwear!?"
"Silence! You fiend! I knew you were rotten from the start, but to abuse your prestige as a Legendary Hero!? You obviously expected to caw your poor victim and any witnesses into silence after the deed was done!" Father yelps like a mountain cat with his tail stomped. "Shame on you! For thinking your prestige could protect you from being brought to justice!"
The Bow Hero's grip on her arm tightens. Out of the corner of her vision she can see a spark of joys dancing across his eyes, while the corners of his mouth turn upwards. He is obviously taking pleasure in what he sees. This trial, this dispensation of 'justice' is getting him off.
"But I didn't do it! Won't anyone believe me!?" Mein can't see the face of the Shield Hero with him held down by the soldiers. The young man that she grew to know within the span of a single day, Naofumi… Always looking either flustered and cheerful or intense and excited, but the light in his eyes speaking of a sort of innocence and purity that might be expected in a child… From his almost pitifully desperate plea, she imagines how the light in his eyes is becoming dull and dying...
La, la, la, la, la~ Not thinking about it!
The Sword Hero squeezes his eyes shut while rubbing his temples. He turns his head towards the door once again to pass the attention to Mein and the Bow Hero's party. "Maybe we should hear the story from the victim's side?"
Everyone turns their attention to the door. Even the Shield Hero manages to twist his head just enough to see them. His eyes widen at Mein standing half embraced by the Bow Hero, arm in arm together with him.
Mein gives a quick glance while taking in a deep breath. The fake adventurer unhooks her arm from The Bow Hero and steps forward. "The Shield Hero..."
The Shield Hero… Naofumi… has a mixture of foreboding fear and belated realization in his eyes. It's the look of a gambler who just lost his last coin and realizes his series of bad luck was rigged from the start.
"...is completely innocent."
For a brief moment, the throne room falls deathly silent. Father, his advisers, the Spear Hero and the soldiers who have Naofumi pinned to his knees all have their jaws hit the floor. The gathered nobles begin to whisper quietly amongst themselves, decorum be damned.
The look of relief on Naofumi's face is stronger than even the last time when they both graced the throne room of Melromarc castle. Back when Mein left the Spear Hero's party to join his side.
"There must be some horrible misunderstanding. The Shield Hero acted as the perfect gentleman throughout the day, just like he said. He defended me fiercely on the plain against the monsters. He paid for separate lodging for me when we rested at the best inn. And throughout the day, Sir Naofumi didn't even make one inappropriate pass at me. I have no idea why someone would accuse him of trying to... force himself upon me." The undercover princess musters up her sweetest face and most innocent voice to recount everything that happened throughout the day.
"Oh, it's just a misunderstanding then." The Spear Hero seems to be the first one to recover from shock. "We should let Iwatani go free." He turns to look at the soldiers and speaks in a casual manner. It's like he never antagonized The Shield Hero in the first place.
Father coughs into his hand to silence the lords. His stony face begins to crack a little. "Are you perhaps under threat, adventurer Mein? You looked quite distressed when you were being escorted by the Bow Hero. I guarantee that you will have nothing to fear if you speak the truth."
"I thank you for your concern, your majesty. But I already speak the whole truth, bare of any falsehood or lies, without anyone trying to threat or silence me. As for the reason of my distress." Mein starts to wipe away the tears dropping out of her eyes. "I simply cannot understand why anyone would try to frame Sir Naofumi! Was it a jealous adventurer who didn't have the honor to accompany him? Someone attempting to sully the great Hero's reputation out of spite for not being allowed to join him as a companion?… But not only had someone tried to besmirch the good name of the Shield Hero, but to sully my own honor as a maiden in order to drag him through the mud... this is all... too much... for me..."
The fake adventurer begins to lose her voice as she breaks out into a full sob. She falls to her knees and covers her face, beginning to weep, shoulders moving up and down and more sobbing noises coming from her mouth. She hears someone run up to her from behind and a white handkerchief appears before her. "Please, don't cry Miss Mein. I promised you Justice will be served on this day. We'll all help sort this misunderstanding out!"
"Yeah, king! You should knock it off! Why are you making such a cute girl cry!?" The Spear Hero takes a few huge steps forward to put himself between Mein and the throne. He turns around to block Mein from the King's befuddled gaze.
"Since we now know of Iwatani's innocence, shouldn't you let him off the ground now? To be dragged out here in his underwear is shameful enough, but to hold him like a common criminal when he's innocent is too much." The Sword Hero walks in front of Naofumi and glares at the guards still holding him at spear point. It looks like the boy is daring the soldiers to disobey him, so he can make a quick example of them all.
The guards exchange nervous looks among themselves before unanimously shooting a pleading stare at their king.
The king is sadly no help. He is currently slumping in his throne, looking like he just fell from atop the clouds into a very deep pit.
His spymaster is not quite as stunned however. Marquis Noches immediately steps forward and waves his hand. "What are you waiting for? Haven't you heard the Sword Hero? You shouldn't treat an innocent man, let alone a prestigious Hero like some no good criminal!"
The soldiers remove their spears and step aside. The Sword Hero helps the Shield Hero up. "Are you alright, Iwatani-san?"
"Yeah... could be better. But I'm alright now." Naofumi looks around, his pupils seem almost fully dilated from the shock. His posture still slumped forward, his knees still shaking from the experience. The young man closes his eyes, taking in a deep breath. "This doesn't happen in Isekai Light Novels I read."
"It's highly concerning. I thought the king of a country would first gather evidence, at least hear what the victim said, before he attempts to convict a man on false charges." The Sword Hero glares at her father, who is currently slumping on his throne and failing to meet his gaze. The Sword Hero's slender fingers tighten around the hilt of his legendary blade like he's ready to strike. "If Iwatani-san was almost convicted for sexual assault without evidence, what's stopping someone tossing me in jail if there's rumor about me trying to start a rebellion? Or doing the same to Kawasumi-san for supposedly trying to assassinate a member of royalty?"
By now her father's face looks like that of a mute person who is being force fed spoiled egg yolk. "Please, Heroes... This is simply a huge misunderstanding. I admit I was... too hasty in carrying out my judgment for the supposed crime... but there should be no fear any of you being in such danger..."
"Amagi is right!" The Bow Hero steps away from Mein and walks to stand shoulder to shoulder with the other two heroes. There is more than just a little of that scary zealotry in his voice. "I don't know how the law works here, but back home trying to frame someone for a crime they didn't commit is also a serious offense! Iwatani-san should be within his right to ask for compensation!"
"Yeah! And you made Mein cry! That's the worst offense here!" The Spear Hero also hops forward to yell at father. The Sword and Bow heroes both give the clueless fool a very distant and disdainful look.
"Kitamura-San. You should apologize to Iwatani-san." The Bow Hero says as he squeezes the bridge of his nose.
"What!? Why? I didn't do anything!" The Spear Hero jumps on his feet, he looks very surprised by this suggestion.
Mein wonders if the Spear Hero was simply born this way, or if he has to work very hard to become this stupid. Perhaps he was dropped on his head when he was little?
"You obviously believed him guilty even before Mein showed up." The Bow Hero explains slowly, as if talking to a particularly dense child. Meanwhile the Sword Hero lets out a tired sigh. He mumbles something about needing a proper vacation rather than this. He certainly looks like he wants to ask for a day off after this joke of a trial, even when he was not the one accused.
And speaking of the accused... Mein risks a quick peek at Naofumi between her fingers. His eyes still a bit dull and his look unfocused. He is still shaking a little on his feet. He seems to slowly be getting over his shock however. As if noticing her gaze the young man from another world gives a quick glance at her direction and straightens his back.
The Bow Hero is still caught in a back and forth argument with the Spear wielding blond idiot. If the face of the 'Ally of Justice' is any indication then it looks like the longer the Bow Hero talks to the Spear Hero the more he is considering joining the Sword Hero on his vacation. "Just apologize to Iwatani-san. You don't want Mein to hate you, do you?" It seems like after a while the Bow Hero finally finds the correct button to push when dealing with the idiotic skirt chaser.
The Spear Hero looks back at Mein. The undercover princess pulls her hands off her face to give him her best pleading puppy dog eyes, eyes that are still full of tears. "Okay! Alright. I'm sorry for not believing in you..." He finally gives out with a huff, crossing his arms over his chest and turning his head away petulantly. He wasn't even speaking to Naofumi, but rather to the air next to him.
"You are the oldest, but you act like a child." The Bow Hero says as he shakes his head at the juvenile behavior of the Spear Hero.
Seemingly considering the issue of chastising the Spear Hero settled the Hero of the Bow steps forward with an almost deliberate slowness to face the King. Mein can't see his face, but when he speaks there is that dangerous madness in his voice again. "So are you going to offer a better explanation your Majesty? Or are you going to insist that this was a simple misunderstanding?" Despite his small frame and young age he seems to loom threateningly. "I adore Justice. There is nothing I love more than seeing Justice be served. But trying to convict an innocent is not Justice. It is tyranny. And a tyrant is someone who needs to be brought to true Justice."
The Sword Hero takes up arm to join the Bow Hero with his crusade. "I agree with Kawasumi. When we were first summoned, we said we may become your enemies. We may not have a choice if you are going to treat us like dirt."
Father's eyes glance all over the room. His runs a hand through his impressive facial hair with much gusto. It looks like he's trying to pull his beard off.
The Throne Room suddenly feels very cold. The nobility amassed on the balconies overlooking the throne room have gone deathly silent. The royal guard are all standing tense, sweat on their faces visible through the open visors of their helmets. The Shield is one thing, but with the recent rise of religious fanaticism directed towards the Three Legendary Heroes, it's a toss up whether some of the royal guards and knights might actually side with the other-worlders against their own king.
The companions of the Bow Hero step forward to overtake Mein's position and back up their leader. Huh, they actually seem to be openly throwing their lot in with their chosen Hero. After only a single day the boy fanatic seems to have infected them with his beliefs such that they, companions handpicked by the king himself, would chose the Bow Hero over their own liege.
"Pardon my impudence, but I wanted to say something before this trial began." Marquis Noches, her father's spymaster who had seemingly been forgotten amid all of the dramatic proceedings, steps forward once again. He bows his head to the Heroes before speaking. "I am Marquis Douglas Ibil Noches, the royal spymaster. My agents reported some rather concerning news this morning that directly pertain to the incident with the Shield Hero, but unfortunately by the time I was informed the trial was already well underway and amid all the chaos and flaring tempers I had no chance to relay these news to his Majesty." Noches takes a pause while everyone slowly shifts their attention away from her father and onto him. He makes a dramatic sigh and deepens his bow apologetically.
"It seems we have some highly suspicious activities being carried out in the city… It bears more investigation before I can say for certain… But from the instincts of a spymaster, I suspect this terrible misunderstanding may be a sabotage attempt from a foreign power. A sabotage attempt with the intended result of driving the Legendary Heroes away from Melromarc."
"Yes! What Marquis Noches said! This has to be the doing of those degenerates from Siltvelt, or Shiltfreeden. They have always been jealous of Melromarc's prosperity. Those savage demi-humans must be trying to conspire against both Melromarc and the Legendary Heroes."
Father sits straight in his throne, he looks at Naofumi with a forced smile. "My humblest apologies, Shield Hero... There had been several rather... infamous… examples throughout history, when a Legendary Hero abused the privileges granted to him by his title. In my haste to see justice served, I fell right into the trap of our mutual enemies."
"So, this country runs on the principle of guilty until proven innocent?" The Bow Hero gives a disgusted scoff at her father's explanation. It's not hard to imagine his wild side is about to burst out once again in the middle of the throne room.
"That is worrying news to know we are risking our lives for you, yet you can convict us without any evidence..." The Sword Hero looks like he's about to continue exactly where the Bow Hero left off, but surprisingly Naofumi puts a hand on his shoulder to stop him. "Iwatani?"
"I'm sure the king meant well. He's trying to look out for his people. As long as something like this doesn't happen again, I'm willing to forgive and forget this misunderstanding." Naofumi gives a quick glance to the tense guards still holding their weapons. Right now a slaughter is only slightly less likely to break out in Melromarc's throne room than it was a moment ago.
The Sword Hero pauses for a second then nods his head. He manages to get Naofumi's message. "Very well. Please promise us you will be more careful in the future, your Majesty."
"Yes, of course, heroes. With our enemies having revealed themselves from the shadows, I will make sure to be more thorough in my future investigations if more issues come up." Father spits out a response through gritted teeth.
"What about compensation for Iwatani? He went through this humiliation for nothing." Father looks like he's about to cry now after the Bow Hero's suggestion. He can't seem to give any response aside from breathing heavier.
"Please, there's no need for any further compensation for me. I already had more funds than any of you. Besides, it's not like I suffered any material losses due to this…" Suddenly Naofumi pauses in thought. "Actually you should probably pay the innkeeper for your guards breaking down one of his doors." He gives an awkward little smile while scratching the back of his head.
Just a couple of minutes ago his life was on the line and now he is suddenly acting all adorable again? It must be that secret Shield Skill. Truly, what a dangerous ability.
"Regardless, as the spymaster of Melromarc I feel personally at fault for Master Shield Hero's current predicament. If I had been more proactive in my duties, this misunderstanding wouldn't have happened in the first place." Lord Noches step up to help father out once again. "On behalf of the entire Melromarc court, I will personally forward five hundred silver pieces from my family vault as compensation for Master Shield Hero. You can choose to have it now, or collect it at a later date whenever you feel the need."
Mein narrows her eyes and looks at the Marquis once again. What's with this overly generous display? That the spymaster is putting on an act of overt generosity and humility for the sake of the Heroes is obvious. But why?
To Mein, Lord Noches is simply another one of the royal advisers. Standing well above the Pope's puppets like that worm Grima, but otherwise not someone to easily trust your back to, for all that he is the royal spymaster. There is a reason the Queen has her own shadows after all. His willingness to take the fall for her father is one thing… Part of his job description really… But to immediately follow by trying to win good will back from the Heroes sends a rather alarming message to the princess.
Now that she thinks about it he has a daughter, doesn't he? Bertia, a girl roughly her own age. Not someone she paid much attention to at court in recent years. After all, the spymaster's daughter was hardly a rival for Malty when it came to looks. They used to be playmates as children but started drifting further and further apart as they matured.
Could it be possible that lord Noches is trying to win over the Heroes by handing out money when the king himself wouldn't, so that then one of them might be overtaken by financial greed and take the Marquis daughter for a wife?
House Noches is traditionally one of loyalists… For the simple reason that they lack a Legendary Hero's bloodline, meaning they have no claim to Melromarc's throne if Melromarc dynasty dies out. Is lord Noches performance today a simple action of doing his duty for the crown, or is he trying to make a power play to elevate the position of his house? He is certainly going above and beyond.
She needs to start thinking on the bigger picture now. Overlooking certain details can be deadly with her choosing Naofumi over the other three Heroes.
"Thank you very much, Lord Noches." Naofumi bows his head low in return. He gives another sheepish smile when he raises it back. "I'll take it if I run out of funds, I guess. Can I be excused now? I feel a bit naked with only my underwear for cover."
"Yes, of course. Shield Hero." Father manages to wave his hand. His face shakes like he's suffering from a seizure. His voice wavering near the end. "Apologies again for inconveniencing you. I will make sure this doesn't happen again."
The soldiers hand back the equipment and money they confiscated from Naofumi as the Heroes and their companions leave the throne room. She better have Naofumi check that all of silver is accounted for once they have the chance...
The Spear Hero runs a hand on Mein's back to guide and comfort her. The undercover princess keeps her head low and silently follows the four Legendary Heroes out of the castle.
She tackles Naofumi when he barely takes a single step out of the castle gates. The undercover princess runs her arms around the young man's back and buries her tear stained face into his chest. "Master Naofumi! I'm so sorry you had to suffer this humiliation because of me! If I wasn't your companion, you wouldn't have to endure that trial!"
Mein can feel the young man from another world throw his arms around like he is drowning, while trying to not tip and fall over from the sudden impact. He manages to regain his balance after a few beats and tentatively touches her shoulders. It eventually settles into a comforting massage. "No, it's not Miss Mein's fault. They could have come up with any excuse to frame me if they wanted to. I was saved because Miss Mein spoke up for me. Thank you... for everything."
"Mein was very brave, speaking up against that king. You are lucky to have her, Iwatani." She can hear the voice of the Spear Hero, that is dripping with a faint touch of envy.
"Still, wasn't Iwatani-san acting too soft in there? Forgiving the king for a stunt like that. You should have asked for more compensation." The Bow Hero speaks up next. His voice is a pitch higher than what she dubbed as his calm tone, although still not as wild as from the night before. "You can't let a bully walk all over you. They'll only be worse the next time."
Mein feels Naofumi's breath tighten in his chest. He pauses a moment before loudly exhaling. "I had to defuse the situation in there. He is still the king of this country. What do you think he'll do if he's backed into a corner by all of us?"
"You think he would have us all killed?" The Sword Hero's voice is alert with concern, but his expression indicates that he was already considering such a possibility. If his words in the throne room were any indication, his primary worry was always about what implications Naofumi's trial would have for himself as another one of the Heroes. Smart or paranoid enough to realize that one of them being convicted without evidence would set a precedent, but not knowledgeable enough to know about the 'special' treatment of the Shield by most in this country.
"Doesn't he need us to fight the Waves!?" The Bow Hero's voice raises even higher.
Malty… Mein… tightens her grip around Naofumi. Now that the choice had been made she can't help but feel relieved. Even without knowing whether her gamble is going to succeed, having the actual decision behind her feels like a mountain has been taken off her back. To be truthful to herself, she wasn't entirely sure that she wasn't going to chose the Bow Hero until the very end… but now looking at the boy with the Bow hyperventilating in front her, she feels like she really dodged an arrow there. What was she thinking? Is 'fixing' this broken child even possible?
"I agree with Iwatani-san." The Sword Hero manages to recover his cold calmness, but his tone is deeper than usual. "He's either lying to save his skin, or he's an idiot. He's willing to convict Iwatani-san either way. What's to say he won't kill us all and summon a new group if he feels the need?"
There is a heavy silence hanging in the air for a brief moment, before the Spear Hero's voice rings out. "Come on, guys. We can't die like that. We are the heroes, right?"
"Yes, Sir Heroes. Please don't think too badly about our wise king. He's simply under a lot of pressure and made an honest mistake." One of the Bow Hero's companion speaks up for her father. He is a bulky man wearing a full set of plate armor and has a thin mustache above his mouth. Mein wonders if she is being paranoid, but the burly armored man seems to be shooting daggers at her with his eyes.
"See, guys! We have nothing to worry about." The Spear Hero leans his weapon back on his shoulder. He shrugs nonchalantly like the sordid affair back in the throne room is no more than a play in the opera house.
"Let's just focus on raising our levels... and keeping our eyes open." Naofumi gives the Spear Hero a distant look, he concludes the discussion with an exasperated sigh.
"Agreed. You be careful Iwatani-San. You can't fight, and your companion is very low level. You two are in the most danger." The Sword Hero nods his head. He puts a hand on Naofumi's shoulder and gives a firm shake, letting go after a couple of awkward seconds.
Mein feels like grinding her teeth at the mention of her level. Can't the Sword Hero not be insufferable for one single day?
The Sword Hero turns and heads off into the city along with his party members. The Bow Hero who seems to have run out of steam for the moment gives Naofumi and her a slight nod in lieu of a goodbye, before heading after the Sword Hero. His companions wordlessly follow him, leaving Naofumi and Mein standing behind them.
The Spear Hero is about to do the same but then he stops and playfully jostles Naofumi with his elbow. "Lucky bastard, all you had to endure was being shouted at for a bit and now you have a total cutie hugging you while you are only wearing your underwear!" The fool has a cheeky grin on his face as he raises a hand and gives Naofumi a thumbs up. "If that's all it takes to have a girl fall for you then I'd gladly trade places with ya! So don't you go starting to feel miserable about yourself ya hear?" With that he turns and leaves along with his party.
From where Mein is standing right against him, she can see some red creep up Naofumi's neck and cheeks. Seems that after the Spear fool pointed it out he finally realized what position she deliberately put them both in. He wasn't in any hurry to step away from her however, she pleasantly notes.
She stands beside the Shield Hero, Naofumi Iwatani as the they both watch the other three Cardinal Heroes along with their parties disappear among the capitol's busy throng.
This could be the biggest mistake of her life, a cynical side of her notes.
Mein rests her head on Naofumi's shoulder. She silently muses to herself as the young man puts his hand on her shoulder to hold her close in return.
Following father's plan and betraying Shield Hero is both comfortable and safe. But what does that path leaves her with? Father is stubborn, he will not listen to her advice to watch out for the Pope for a possible betrayal. If she follows along father's plan, she will completely hand her fate to the Pope.
That's not even considering what the other countries will do when they learn of Melromarc's treatment of the Shield Hero. Even if the Pope IS willing to stay as only the spiritual leader of their country, it's possible she won't have a kingdom to rule after Siltvelt, Shiltfreeden, and Faubley are done with Melromarc.
The only way to defy the odds is to defy everyone's expectation of her taking the easy way out.
Mein will be lying to herself if she were to say it's not scary. Without the backing of her father, she bears no claims by virtue of her name, no connections to draw support from and no money to fund herself.
She has truly become Mein the adventurer, not Malty the first princess of Melromarc.
Yet at the same time, there is something liberating and exhilarating about staying with Naofumi. The young man is resourceful and smart, and he is truly indebted to her. She'll just have to use her wits, charm and knowledge about Melromarc to make sure he rises above the challenges ahead… with her rising besides him.
Mein lets herself close her eyes to rest a moment on Naofumi's shoulder, leaning into the Shield Hero more. He accommodates her weigh by shifting his footing slightly, but he doesn't complain. She briefly wonders if this is how it feels to spread wings and take flight.
Why have wings, if you can't fly?
Omake: The Exasperation of the Royal Spymaster
The throne room of Melromarc castle is empty except for the presence of King Aultcray Melromarc the 32nd, and the royal spymaster Marquis Douglas Ibil Noches. Yet, even so the ravings and crying of the old king can be heard by everyone in the castle and even some of those outside. Although if asked directly, none would admit to being privy to such an indignity from their monarch.
"Disgraced! Shamed! Embarrassed! Humiliated! My plan was perfect, PERFECT! Douglas! How could my sweet Malty do this to me!?" The king's impressive beard is matted and tangled with tears and snot. He is looking at Douglas with tear stained eyes like a kicked puppy.
Douglas feels a debilitating headache crawling its way slowly into his skull. He gives his head a shake while trying to remain calm. Someone has to be the voice of reason when Aultcray becomes like this. Usually, that's the queen's job, and Queen Mirelia is very good at manhandling her husband. Sadly she is away at the world conference.
…And if Aultcray's machinations keep up she is likely to stay there indefinitely.
That means the job falls on the shoulders of the Marquis. Lord Noches can't help but let out a silent sigh. One of many he's been letting out lately. All in some way related to his king's actions in one way or another.
The Queen herself has her private spy/assassin force known as the Shadows answering only to her, but the royal spymaster is still an illustrious and powerful position. It is also an extremely dangerous position if the spymaster loses the trust of the reigning king. They are always the first scapegoat thrown to the wolves whenever anything goes wrong.
Which means Douglas must tread very lightly around Aultcray. He has to try to slip in good advice without somehow stepping on his Majesty's toes. That means he can't come out and tell Aultcray flat in his face that trying to frame the Shield Hero is a bad idea. So he has to try for a more subtle approach.
"Perhaps her highness, the royal princess Malty, has a reason on why she acted the way she did in the trial? As much as we plan from where we are, we don't know what is truly happening out there on the actual battlefield. Perhaps her highness gained some unique... insight as the companion of the Shield… Demon?"
This seems to be the right thing to say as the howling stops abruptly. The throne room is uncomfortably quiet for one moment before the king looks at his spymaster again, his eyes still glistening but suddenly full of hope. "You are right, Douglas." He almost whispers out, as he leans back in his throne.
"I hope to be, my liege. I am your spymaster, my mistakes are very costly to our great kingdom." Lord Noches bows his head again, relieved that he finally seems to have gotten through to his liege.
His relief is short-lived however as his thoughts are almost immediately interrupted by more raving.
"The Shield Demon must have put an evil spell on my sweet daughter! Or maybe he somehow discovered her true identity and is threatening her! Or maybe he sold her into slavery to force her to obey him! This is no time for me to wallow in my self-pity! I must save my daughter from the Shield Demon!" There is a maniac gleam in Aultcray's eyes that tells Douglas one thing. The king is sadly affiliated with one of the most vile disease known to man, an incurable illness that has brought larger than life kings and heroes of legend greater than Aultcray Melromarc the 32nd down to their knees before.
The Overprotective Father Syndrome.
Lord Noches fights his urge to slap his own face. He manages to keep a professional smile instead and squeezes out a whimper. "Right you are, my liege... But for the moment there are other pressing matters to attend to in addition to rescuing the first princess from the clutch of the 'Shield Demon'."
"What can be more important than saving my sweet Malty!?" The King is all but roaring like a lion now. It would look rather impressive if not for his beard all being covered in snot stains.
"With the first princess likely... indisposed of and outside of our protection, we must ensure the wellbeing of the second princess. Hopefully within the safety of Melromarc Castle. If both of the royal heirs are endangered out in the field... there is a very real danger our kingdom will dissolve into complete chaos with the Dukes fighting over themselves for their daughters' right to marry one of the Legendary Heroes, so that their house might replace house Melromarc. With the Waves of Catastrophe still underway, and our Kingdom beset by our enemies from all sides, we must avoid this outcome at all cost."
"By the Legendary Heroes of the old! You are absolutely right, Douglas! Thank you for reminding me of this! I don't know what I'd do without you at this hour of darkness. We have to bring Melty back!" Aultcray gasps as he realized the gravity of the situation.
"I live to serve you, my liege." The Marquis quickly turns his brain to thinking of the best candidate for this job. Knight Captain Éclair Seatto would have been perfect for the job as she is as unbending as she is honorable. Unfortunately she is a bit... indisposed after the death of her father due to her outspoken nature about demi-human equality. That means the candidate Douglas suggests in her stead must have very fierce anti-demi-human sentiment, but still be trustworthy and loyal to the crown, not to mention competent enough to actually guard the second princess. "I suggest Knight Captain Winchester, my liege. Lord Winchester was a highly decorated veteran in our war against Siltvelt even at the young age of fourteen, and his loyalty to the crown is without question."
"I will arrange for Melty's escort, you worry about rooting out the demi-human scum from Siltvelt and Shiltfreeden, Douglas. We can't have those animals endanger Malty while we both fuss over Melty." The King simply waves his hand at Douglas. The spymaster recognizes this as a sign of dismissal.
"As you wish, my liege." Lord Noches bows again to the king again before exiting the throne room. Deep down, he knows Aultcray is going to make more mistakes with his... ailment. But the Marquis is not going to risk himself and his family further trying to correct his king.
…Yeah right, root out the spies from Siltvelt and Shiltfreeden that I myself invented on the spot today?
He supposed that he could arrange for some demi-human slaves to be framed as foreign agents. He'd obviously also need to arrange for their death shortly after, lest they actually be brought in for questioning.
I am sorry, old friend. But I have done everything I can do for you without putting everlasting harm on myself. I must look after my sweet Bertia, and I will not let the fate of noble Éclair fall on my own daughter.
At least Bertia is a sweet angel. She won't give me a migraine like your daughter Malty. No, siry.
Author's Note (very ramble-y and CONTAIN POSSIBLE SPOILERS! You are warned!):
If anyone wonders, Omaka is totally canon. I wanted to keep the main story completely in Malty's POV, and this Marquis Noches POV doesn't have enough content to flesh into a full Interlude chapter so I have it as a chapter end Omaka. That's me wanting to have my cake and eat it too.
One thing I want to clarify a little about reviews I got from last chapter regarding Itsuki's characterization. I can see where The Joining is coming from because in a way I deliberately over-exaggerated Itsuki's more unhinged characterization for my own story. So from a pure canon perspective, I can see why readers would see Itsuki's portrayal in chapter 3 come off as insulting. I really wish I can use direct pm to explain this since it's easier to do back forth with pm than at a chapter's author note, and I don't have to worry about spoiler all my readers. So I'll try to keep my explanation as spoiler free as possible.
First thing I have to clarify, I HATE stories where writer make everyone else look bad to make their main character look good. So no, this story will NOT be another shield bro fanfiction where all three weapon heroes act like idiotic bullies to make Naofumi (or whoever is the Shield Hero) look good by comparison.
That being said, I'm in a very precarious position when it comes down to Itsuki for two reasons. First, as I already show in this chapter Malty betrays her father instead of Naofumi (kind of a given if anyone read my old one-shot). I have to make this plot point look logical and if Itsuki is exactly like canon then there's no way she'd choose Naofumi over Itsuki since she can have Trash's support as the princess. One can argue she could choose Naofumi because she realizes antagonizing him would lead to other countries invade Melromarc, but I think that version of Malty is both too perceptive and too selfless, and Queen Mirelia would be a complete idiot to not make her the crown princess.
The second reason is with Itsuki himself and how he'll develop in my story. In canon his shtick doesn't get revealed into much MUCH later in the arcs, and for reason I won't go into, it simply won't fly for how my story will progress. So I have two options with him, either I keep him exactly like canon at the start and have him become the most under developed and forgettable hero (which I think he already is in canon), or I twist his characterization a little to have him fly his freak flag as high as it goes from very start to make him a more stand out character.
It's obvious from chapter 3 and 4 which way I choose. It might be a creative mistake, and there might be a way where I can keep him same as canon but still make everything work. I don't know about it since I couldn't figure it out. If anyone is offended by this version of Itsuki, I apologize. Please do take note I wrote him this way with the intention of making his character development later in my story have more impact, not to bash him as a character.
I been thinking about character theme songs for the four heroes and Malty. This is what I came up with:
Malty: 'Someday' Japanese version (The World Ends with You)
Naofumi: 'The Biggest Dreamer' (Digimon Tamers)
Motoyasu: 'Butterfly' (Digimon Adventure)
Ren: 'Shangri-La' (Fafner in the Azure)
Itsuki: 'Everywhere You Go' 遠藤正明 Version (Neo Super Robot War)
So yeah, the lyrics of each song should give some insight on how I'll write the characters.
:D