Disclaimer
The following is a fan-based Fiction.
Rising of the Shield Hero belongs to Aneko Yusagi
Please support the official release
Loyalty
Misato stands in an open field with wooden painted targets. Firing his gun, practicing his accuracy and speed.
Bang Bang Bang Bang- Click!
Misato takes a breath, ejecting the clip. His personal time seems a lot quicker with this gun. He looks at the Gun he has practiced with.
The Chimera Viper Pistol, it's an incredible handgun. Aesthetically, the majority of the body is green but the grip, barrel underneath the slide, and magazines are colored gold. Kind of like the Chimera Viper Shield.
Functionally, the slide is smoother than the Colt Pistol, it started with 21 Bullets Per Magazine. A compensator, which looks like a snake head, that seems to let out little to no muzzle flip. Ambidextrous safeties. Flared magwells. Plus the grip is comfortable to grasp, although considering he is the Gun Hero, having a grip on his gun isn't an issue.
Speaking of issues, the Viper Pistol… It's perhaps the most wicked handgun Misato has in his arsenal. Not just because of lethal potential, but rather, how sharp it is. Attached at the bottom of it are two snake fang-like knives, which are two inches long, extending the gun's length, and they can be launched! Even without those the frames are incredibly sharp. In theory, if Misato is out of ammo and knives to shoot, he could probably pull off the same move in the Kingsman Movie where Harry used the frames of a pistol to stab someone!
'In fact, I'm afraid I might cut myself with this, even though I'm the Gun Hero.'
Finally, it has a feature called Poison bullet mode, so when it's on, each bullet he shoots poisons the target, even the knives are coated in poison. So if a bullet hits someone non lethally, the poison could potentially kill them. Good for enemies, but bad for friends! Sure, he can't hurt anyone in his party with his guns but he could probably poison and kill a civilian by accident if his bullets go wide.
No wonder why the Gun suggested he should use the Colt Pistol for a bit before using this one. It probably would have been very useful against Mald and Rikert but he could have accidentally hit Matilda or Itsuki during the fight and that would have been bad.
"That Gun looks intimidating…" Itsuki comments, sitting underneath the tree. Resting from his session of training.
"Ya it does…" Misato admitted. "But it is the best pistol I have, too bad I couldn't get the other Chimera parts to unlock different Gun Forms. Wonder what Lion would have given me…"
"Well, Motoyasu has the Lion, Ren has the Dragon and I got the Goat since each of us killed a specific head. Here," Itsuki says, handing Misato a horn. "This is all I got left from absorbing the goat."
Misato absorbs it.
Chimera Goat Revolver Unlocked!
A large revolver designed for close combat, each round fires a spread of bullets.
New Skill: Ramming Bullet unlocked
Ramming Bullet knocks the enemy far back.
Note: Skill's recoil will knock wielder back too.
Ammunition: Shotgun Shells.
Misato inspects the gun. It's similar to the Halo Infinite Gun: The Mangler. Which is essentially a shotgun in the form of a big revolver. Instead of blades, it has two goat-like horns at the sides of the barrel to stab people.
Goat Shield Attachment available!
He'll check out that attachment later. He looks back to Itsuki. "Thanks." Misato says, holding out his hand and some glass block appears on his hand from his inventory. "Absorb this."
Itsuki absorbs the strange glass.
Mini Teleport Bow locked!
Level Requirement: 80
"Huh Mini teleport bow? What makes it different from the Normal Teleport Bow?" Itsuki comments.
"Probably because it was once the same sand that you got from the Dragon Hourglass."
"This was the same sand but you melted it into glass?!"
"Yep." Misato answers, popping the 'p'. It took a lot of heat to melt, Fitoria had to help to sufficiently heat the furnace since no one had the physical capability to pump enough air for the fire.
"So the glass came from the same source but unlocked something new. Which means…"
"It gives us a lot of combinations, in fact there is something I got to explain to you."
Misato explained how parts of the same animal could create different weapon forms. Using a Tiger as an example, how each body part functions, how its fur camouflages itself in its natural habitat, how it has powerful jaws and claws for catching prey. The logic gets through and the Bow Hero was surprised to discover it in his Help Menu. Seeing that he has gained more stats.
"This wasn't in the help menu, I'm certain of it…" Itsuki lightly frowns. Meanwhile Misato feels relieved that Itsuki is not accusing Misato for cheating. It is such a stark contrast for the anime watcher to see Itsuki not act like an entitled dick. Is this seriously what Itsuki could have been were it not manipulative assholes like Mald?
"Change the name because that is certainly not a help menu, it's more of a Note or Information Menu. Because it's there to take note of any new things to get stronger… Like just now with the monster parts…"
"If that's true then…" Itsuki's eyes widened, realizing the potential. "What else do you know?"
Misato explains to Itsuki about the strengthening methods, Misato applies the same logic he explained to Naofumi, about how adaptive weapons are to Itsuki.
Itsuki was frowning, most likely trying to find that information. Misato snaps his fingers. "Think about it… Why do you think each Legendary Weapon selected someone from a different world with a slightly different game?"
"I… I don't know." Itsuki reluctantly admits. He found it odd but didn't question it, and part of him thought the other Heroes were trying to mess with him like his so-called 'Friends' back at school.
"Itsuki, have you played other RPGs?"
"Yes."
"Were methods of getting stronger different than your favorite game?"
"Ya…" Itsuki answers, confused but then the idea clicks. "The others are from different worlds with different games, because they have different ways to get stronger…"
"Yep." Misato says with a grin. "We were each summoned from a different world, to provide fellow heroes knowledge and information, including ways to get stronger and increase stats… Normally such a thing would make a game unbalanced and unfair but… This is the real world. We need to take every advantage to win and save the world. It's up to you to decide. To push past the doubt andpride and accept it…"
Itsuki nods, concentrating on his Help Screen. Misato is making some sense, in the lore of Dimension Wave, the Weapon grows with the Hero. He thought it was about how the weapon can absorb things but he can't see it for some reason.
The Bow Hero prided over having ways to get stronger in Dimension Wave and his esper power but despite leveling up so much. The woman died and he couldn't fight against Rikert…
"Honestly, acting like I know everything, especially after failing to save that woman, it seems so stupid and shallow. I certainly don't like being wrong but… It's better than pretending I'm not."
Strengthening Methods discovered!
The Two Long Ranged Heroes discussed strengthening methods, describing each method carefully to each other. Misato believed Itsuki has changed for the better, considering the fact that Itsuki trusts him and has shown traits that in Misato's opinion makes Itsuki look like a decent guy and not the bratty asshole Misato has hated. So the Gun Hero explained the strengthening methods he currently knows. Both Heroes now have gained 10 Strengthening Methods.
Even if Itsuki could turn around and go crazy, Fitoria can kick Itsuki's ass and then likely kick Misato's for failing to reign in Itsuki… Okay maybe it wasn't a good idea.
Misato turned to Itsuki, seeing him drawing his bow and arrow, firing into the targets. From the looks of things, Itsuki has improved his form and speed. Earlier, Itsuki went to practice with Matilda observing, since Matilda had experience sniping with a bow for further targets, Matilda figured she could find a way to help Itsuki. Seeing Itsuki's first practice shot made Matilda cringe when he hit his own arm with the string. Of course the Bow didn't hurt him but the fact remains his form needed improvement.
Itsuki at first didn't care since he didn't miss thanks to his esper power, but then Matilda pointed out that if he fires an arrow improperly, it makes the arrow slower, and that makes the damage output weaker. Itsuki tested this by firing rapidly into the targets with someone recording his shots with a crystal ball. The Bow Hero watched it and conceded when the speed of his arrows were inconsistent.
Misato frowns, noticing a small detail, the arrows Itsuki fires seem to be infinite.
"Hey Itsuki." The Bow Hero stops firing and turns to face the Gun Hero.
"Yes?" Itsuki turns, his eyes turn from orange to light green, indicating that his esper power was off.
"How many arrows do you have? And how much are you paying for the resources to make them?"
"What do you mean? The Bow makes the arrows for me, well except for special arrows, I have to buy or find real arrows, but they do more damage than the default ones." Itsuki says, genuinely confused by Misato's question. His expression was not condescending like his fictional counterpart.
Misato looks at his HUD.
Infinite Essential Ammo Locked!
Customization: Resource copying Locked!
Requirement: Assistance from the 4 Legendary Heroes of this world.
1st Requirement Met: Assistance from the Shield Hero!
2nd Requirement: Assistance from a 2nd Legendary Hero
3rd Requirement: Assistance from a 3rd Legendary Hero
4th Requirement: Assistance from a 4th Legendary Hero
Misato turns back to Itsuki. "I need your help…"
The Gun Hero explains to Itsuki about the Gun Shield Hybrid series and the major benefits the series provided. He explains that the Gun is telling him it needs assistance from another Legendary hero. Itsuki was hesitant for a split second but then agreed to assist. Plus they might unlock a Gun-Bow series.
The Two Heroes combine their weapons, the gemstones touch and a bright light shines in the fields.
Gun-Bow Hybrid Series Unlocked!
+20 Attack Stats!
You can now copy Bows, providing you extra stats! You can create Crossbows. You have gained a permanent boost of +15% in Attack!
Crafting new Crossbows will increase the permanent boost up to 50%. To increase the percentage… Read more to find out.
Note: You will not gain any special skills from Bows
New Skill: Perfect Aim Unlocked!
▇▇▇▇ S3rI3s5: 39% C0m913te
Seems that the new hybrid increased the percentage of the mystery series. No Pair up skill, although it makes sense because dual wielding a bow and a gun does not work well. Instead, he's got this new skill...
Perfect Aim:
When activated, every shot you make will not miss for 5 minutes, enemies cannot avoid it. This skill can work in conjunction with other special bullet related skills.
Note: Even with this skill, your shots can still be blocked.
Did the Gun-Bow Hybrid give him a discount version of Itsuki's Esper power? AWESOME!
Too bad the Bow alone isn't enough to give him Infinite Essential Ammo yet.
Misato looks at Itsuki with a grin, raising his gun.
Itsuki stares at Misato and then Itsuki raises his bow, returning the grin.
The two heroes copied each other's guns and bows, Misato and Itsuki speak about the sources of information.
"So… If your source is an anime and a light novel, what was the Bow Hero like?" Itsuki asks.
Misato sighs. "You would hate the Bow Hero."
"What?"
"The brat became pretentious, listening to anyone obviously lying to him just because they were better at sucking him off and filling his stupid ego… Uncaring of how his own teammates bullied some weaker members of the team. He became everything he hated… A bully, a willfully ignorant bystander, the exact opposite of what a hero should be." Misato says, not lying as the Itsuki he is currently seeing is far better than the one he knows the story.
"WHAT?!" Itsuki says, this character sounds horrible! No way will he EVER become anything like that!
After their discussion, the two heroes went to speak to their parties.
Itsuki formed a new team with mostly demi-humans, including the bunny girl, as a form of atonement and surprisingly a Human ex-knight. Who was tied up and beaten up by Rikert and his personal knights for 'betraying humanity.' Apparently the knight used to be part of Seaetto's platoon before Eclair's father died.
Misato turns to see a woman with traits of a whale, in her early 20s, with long black hair, and light clothing ideal for swimming. As he got closer, the more he heard of their conversation. This woman was explaining how some Shadows spoke to her about survivors of Lurolono village ending up in Reichnott's main town and came here.
Seeing Misato, the woman lets the two girls go and faces him with a carefree smile.
"So this is the knight in shining dark armor who rescued sweet little Rifana and swept her off her feet? I have to say Rifana-chan, you have cute tastes." Sadeena says winking. Misato's cheeks turn slightly pink in embarrassment from being complimented by a beautiful woman.
"Sadeena! We're close but I don't look at him in that way!" Rifana gasps, turning pink as well, hitting the woman's arm.
"Excuse me?" Misato gasps, pretending to be offended, placing his hand over his heart.
Rifana pouts at Misato "Don't tease me!" She says. Misato raises his hand in mock surrender. She turns back to Sadeena. "Yes, Misato saved me like in those stories and just because he's the-uh the Projectile Hero, doesn't mean I actually like him in that way… He's more like a brother to me…" Considering how Misato sometimes teased and interacted with Rifana and Keel like an older sibling. It's difficult for Rifana to look at Misato in a romantic light.
"But it is a little weird though considering how much you fantasized about marrying a Hero…" Keel comments, showing some surprising cheekiness, recalling how often Rifana spoke with the other children about Marrying Heroes. The blonde weasel elbows her friend in response and Sadeena giggles at the exchange and turns to face Misato again, she raises her hand to shake.
"Pleasure to meet you, Misato, Projectile Hero, I am Sadeena, the 'big sister' of Lurolono Village." Sadeena says.
Misato, the 'Projectile Hero' takes her hand and shakes. "Nice to meet you, I am Misato and yes, I do use projectiles…" He says, not revealing the full truth of his identity as the Gun Hero.
Sadeena grins at Misato's flat response.
Earlier, after Misato helped Itsuki recover from the Rikert Ordeal…
Matilda gives Misato an all-knowing smile.
"What?" Misato asked.
"You're the Projectile Hero, aren't you?" Matilda said.
"Uh…"
"Don't deny it, Sir Hero. You claim to have a prototype crystal orb that imitates a Hero's inventory magic, when really that object likely just shines light brightly to hide your weapon's ability to transform."
"Well…"
"The Queen informed me of your 'mysterious' origins. Faubrey is a good guess but, they are very strict when it comes to immigration and sharing their advancements to the world. No way you would be able to get away in the first place with those revolutionary tools. Same with Q'ten Lo, being isolated from every other nation."
Misato pauses, staring at Matilda, completely silent.
Matilda continues. "There is your supposed 'knowledge of the future'. It is said that Summoned Heroes can provide incredible knowledge, so it only makes sense for you to be a Summoned Seven Star Hero."
Misato shrugs "Fine you got me, I am a Hero who uses projectiles…"
Fortunately, Misato and his team planned for this to happen and agreed to using the Projectile weapon as his 'True' Identity.
Sadeena giggles, placing her hand on Misato's shoulder. "But anyway, thank you so much for saving Keel and Rifana…" She says with a genuine smile of gratitude.
"Of course…" Misato says, smiling back.
Sadeena then frowns "Unfortunately I do have some bad news, I believe the Queen's shadows can explain."
Dusk and Dawn gives them the update of the situation in Melomarc, rumors and discussions about Misato and his guns have been brewing around many towns. There is suspicion about him being involved with the death of Idol Rabier and Rikert. The King himself is starting to gather information about it and evidence of these rumors. Mald's family is looking for someone to blame and they are likely to aim for Misato.
"Misato is not a bad guy. I can talk to the King and convince him that the rumors are wrong." Itsuki offers.
"No, don't. It would only make the Church want to kill you and the others. You should stay away from the King, until I can get every Hero united to confront the King." Misato declines.
"But that's not fair." Itsuki frowns.
Misato sighs. "Look, I knew this was bound to happen, especially with the amount of bullets I used in Rikert's territory, if they knew the Bow Hero was killing believers of the Church, they would declare you as fake and try to kill you and likely the others almost immediately. We were lucky Mald only warned Rikert because Mald wanted the glory of taking down the 'Fake Bow Hero.'"
Itsuki looked incredulous at Misato's explanation. "I'm not fake."
"We know you are not fake." Misato says, gesturing his hands to everyone. "But people like Mald, don't want to admit it, because to admit it, means to admit they are the bad guys in the situation. But rarely does anyone ever want to be THE bad guy…" Itsuki frowns deeply from that statement.
"We did take care of the Church's Shadows at Rikert's castle, they didn't get any message out, so it does buy us some time and Our Mistress does have a plan to help Misato when he becomes accused of these crimes." Dawn says.
"Alright." Itsuki concedes.
Itsuki falls on his back in the dirt groaning. Matilda, takes a breath, sheathing her knives. "Let us take a five minute break." She says, walking to the bench. Itsuki nods, walking over, grabbing the cup of water.
Earlier, Matilda was sparring against Itsuki, trying to get the Bow Hero to have some training to fight opponents up close due to his ambush with the traitors taking advantage of his weakness. Surprisingly, it was Itsuki who asked Matilda for advice, seeing that the knife thrower was good up close in combat as well.
However, Itsuki still has issues, yes he does have an indestructible stick and could smack Matilda like he's holding a bat but he telegraphs too much and he sucked at Baseball back in school. Sure he has trained a bit holding the bow like a sword and practicing his swings but considering his build, it feels like a bit of a waste for Itsuki.
The Bow Hero sighs, turning to see Misato fighting the woman, Sadeena. He sees the Gun Hero trying to shoot the whale woman but the woman was fast enough to deflect some of the bullets with her trident, Misato's gun clicks empty and she closes the distance.
But Misato throws his gun at Sadeena. Itsuki eyes widened, surprised that Misato can even throw his weapon at all.
The thrown weapon transforms from a small gun intoa huge sniper rifle made of metal that looks familiar to Itsuki, Sadeena is surprised by the move and steps to the side, dodging the rifle. But another-no the same gun reappears in Misato's hands transforming into a different gun. The Gun Hero fires his shotgun at Sadeena, hitting the woman with a large rubber bullet.
Sadeena grunts from the shot and thrusts her trident. Misato quickly blocks it with a shielded blunderbuss. The woman then swings the trident upwards, smacking Misato's weapon to the side, exposing him for a painful kick into his gut.
The Gun Hero rolls on the ground, quickly standing up with his weapon only to see three bolts of lightning fly towards Misato, the angles of the bolts limit his capability to dodge the attack.
Misato quickly underhand tosses his gun in front of him, mid-air, it transforms into the same large rifle. The gun takes the hit, the lightning spreads all over the gun and hits the ground harmlessly, unable to reach Misato.
Sadeena's body is suddenly covered in lightning, and she disappears, turning into an electric blur.
Misato raises his left arm, and a plain shield appears. He raises his gun, transforming it into a large gun with a bigger shield attached to it. He raises both weapons up close to his body like a boxer, bracing himself. Sadeena appears, breaking Misato's defense and knocking him down on the ground, her magic shocks Misato.
The Gun hero lays on the ground, looking stunned and dazed from the attack for more than a minute. Sadeena lifts Misato up in her arms, speaking to him, trying to snap out of his daze. Until a few minutes later, Misato finally blinks. He shakes his head, probably trying to reassure Sadeena and his teammates that he is okay. Misato examines his gun, he then stands up and runs out of the sparring ring.
Itsuki grabs his Bow, looking at the Gem, and then he looks back at where Misato and Sadeena fought. If Misato can throw his weapon and make it transform in a fight to throw off his enemies, then maybe he can too…
New Bow Crafting Recipes available
He turns to Matilda. "Can we spar again?"
Matilda looks at Itsuki, seeing the Bow Hero's eyes light up, makes her smile at the sight, reminding her of Rishia "Of course."
When Misato fought Sadeena, and got hit by her lightning magic, Misato blacks out.
Misato sees Forrest, who seems to be around his early to mid 20s. The Predecessor's hand was glowing blue, concentrating his mana into his hand. Forrest extends his hand forward, pointing at some rocks. Misato sees a few sparks of electricity appear on Forrest's hand but it doesn't extend further out.
Forrest sighs looking at his hand.
"What happened?" A girl speaks. Misato turns to the voice, seeing a blonde girl in her mid teens with large red wings. Her red eyes remind Misato of Fitoria for some reason.
A Filolial like Fitoria?
Misato then notices Mamoru was next to the girl and there was a woman in her 20s, with white hair tied up in a side ponytail and pale blue eyes. The thing that brought Misato's attention the most was the giant pair of scissors on the woman's back and the small purple gemstone on it, a Hero? From Glass's world or somewhere else?
Then there is also a girl in her mid teens, with platinum blonde hair and brown skin, and Whip with a gemstone on her hips. She is wearing what Misato thinks is an outfit for alchemy.
"I don't know…" Forrest said "Before I came to this world, I used to be able to use lightning magic but I was capable of so much more than this. Hell, in the right circumstances, I could create a lightning storm." The Previous Gun Hero shakes his head in frustration. "Almost none of my other magic affinities work. Only fire, light and darkness work…"
The alchemist girl says "The little bit of lightning on your hand was odd…" She walks over to Forrest, examining his hand
Forrest lifts up the gun with his free hand. "Holn, you think the damage on the Gun might have to do with my affinities being fucked up?"
Misato gasps, seeing the blue gemstone on the Gun has a crack on it.
The alchemist, now named Holn, observes the gun, rubbing her hand on the gemstone, feeling the crack. "It is possible the damage of your painful transition correlates with your now limited affinities-
Holn's voice turns static and Misato's vision turns black
Misato places his hand on the crystal ball with Dawn observing his affinities.
"It is still Fire, Darkness and Light." Dawn says. Misato shakes his head.
"Look carefully, use a magnifying glass." Misato says.
Dawn pauses, grabbing her magnifying glass and observes the crystal ball. The Shadow gasps.
"What do you see?"
"I see that you do have lightning, wind and support affinities, but… they are so small, the affinities keep disappearing and reappearing like a fire on a candle running out." Dawn lifts the magnifying glass and stares at Misato. "This is odd, never has there been a case where someone partially has an affinity, it's either they do have it or they don't.
Misato sees a pop up appear in his vision.
Lightning, Wind, and Support Affinities Locked!
Gun Hero Exclusive Magic: Magic Manipulation Locked!
1st Requirement Met: Assistance from a Legendary Hero
2nd Requirement: Assistance from a Magic Hero
The Gun Hero sighs. That's a problem, the only magic heroes he knows are the King and Kyo. Neither are good options to request assistance.
"Don't tell anyone about this…" Misato says.
"Alright." Dawn nods.
Misato grabs his gun and observes the gemstone, rubbing his thumb over it. The surface of the gem is completely smooth, how did Forrest get this thing fixed? Maybe Fitoria knows something…
Misato speaks to Fitoria using his weapon, like a Zoom meeting thanks to the communication crystal balls he and Fitoria absorbed earlier.
"Hmm… Sorry Misato, but I do not know how the Gun was repaired, however your description of these three other people in your vision, I have some idea who they are. The woman you saw with the large pair of scissors was the Vassal Sewing Set Hero, R'yne, she's from a different world." Fitoria says
"The young girl with red wings, her name is Filolia, she and R'yne are siblings, she was the Vassal Claw Hero and she and Mamoru-sama were… in love." Fitoria says the last part awkwardly.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing major, it's just… If she is supposed to be like my mother, how come I didn't remember her as well as Mr. Forrest and Mamoru-sama before recovering the recordings?" Fitoria frowns, perhaps out of shame.
"Forrest and Mamoru were both Cardinal Heroes, they are stronger, and their presence affects the waves, combined with how much they loved you. It might have left a bigger impression on you than the others. Not that I imagine your mother-like figure didn't love you as much as they did."
"Hmmm, perhaps that is true." Fitoria nods with relief.
"Although, how did I miss this?" Misato asks, as he did watch all the recordings that remain, there is no mention of these other girls.
"They were in the file titled 'Recordings for Fitoria'."
"Oh." Misato says. So that's how he missed such important details. Misato was tempted to watch that file but he decided to be respectful to Fitoria and to his predecessor. "Anything I should know that isn't too private from those recordings?"
Fitoria shakes her head. "No, just mostly them telling stories."
"But moving on," Fitoria smiles at Misato "I am happy to hear that you managed to break the Bow Hero's delusions, and he has been showing progress to effectively fight the Waves." The Filolial Queen then frowns. "I am sorry to say that I am too busy to help you with the Dragon that the Sword Hero might slay soon."
Misato shakes his head. "It's fine, besides, a rainstorm came out of nowhere a few days ago over the mountains where the dragon lives. The Shadows said the storm deterred Ren from confronting the monster for now. In fact, as we speak, I think the storm is still going."
The Gun Hero's eyes widened. "Oh that reminds me. Fitoria, the scouts you sent over there have been noisy and frowning at the storm. Ace translated them and apparently they have been saying 'The Storm feels wrong'."
Earlier, Misato through the crystal balls, spoke with an agent of the Queen, who was observing Mirso Village, they mentioned how the Filolials scouts Fitoria sent have been noisy. Misato brought Ace over to the ball to translate the noisy filolials.
Fitoria hums. "I did feel a large amount of magical energy forming in the direction of Melomarc, but since I was too far, I couldn't sense exactly where within Melomarc… Perhaps it is the dragon? Did this happen in the story?"
"No it didn't, so I don't know…" Misato admits, frowning. This storm has actually messed up the timeline a bit. Ren is confronting the dragon later, which means if things remained canon, Naofumi wouldn't have had to deal with an Undead Dragon, not yet.
He knows the butterfly effect theory but his presence shouldn't actually cause a storm in the mountains. Perhaps it's an example of Misato's knowledge reaching its limits already? On the upside this did buy Misato time to make sure Itsuki has recovered correctly and establish friendly relations with him.
"Be wary Misato, I was in Stiltran- I mean Stilvelt, and felt that energy from there. My senses are good, but they have limits. Whatever I sensed, it was larger than your aura for a brief moment." Fitoria warns.
"I'll be careful." Misato says. "So what are you doing now? You don't seem to be in the Sanctuary."
"I am searching for the other Vassal Heroes, once I find one, I will determine if they would be inclined to share their method of strength and hope they are not like that foolish Staff Hero."
Misato nods to that, the more methods, the better. Unfortunately, the anime has yet to explore the Vassal Heroes in this world, he has no idea where they are or what they are like.
"Good luck in your search and please, don't expose yourself."
"Of course I won't, and thank you, goodbye for now." Fitorias projection disappears.
What could this storm mean…
It's now afternoon, Misato speaks to the Shadows watching the Heroes, Ren is fighting monsters in the neighboring land by the mountains, waiting for the strange storm to run its course. Naofumi has been acting as a mysterious healing merchant with good accessories, but Misato kind of knew it from his own private conversations with the Shield Hero via magic phone call.
Motoyasu has returned to Castle Town after releasing the 'Miracle' Seed in Lerno Village a few days ago. However, that is not all for the Spear Hero's Party…
"WHAT?!" Misato yells, slamming his fists on the table. "Malty got this girl enslaved and you did nothing to stop it?!" He didn't know about this! Why was this not brought up in Malty's list of crimes in Episode 21? Even Rueben didn't mention this!
"Yes, however we recorded Malty doing this crime and we believe this provides an opportunity for Motoyasu to rescue Rino and realize how terrible Malty is and remove her from his party. Including the accomplices." The Shadow, who was assigned to watch Motoyasu, placates.
Misato takes a breath, calming himself from the Shadow's explanation. "It could work… Motoyasu is obsessed with being this 'Maiden Protector' or 'White Knight'. Get him to rescue a woman who is in genuine danger, caused by Malty. Then combining all of Malty's misdeeds that Motoyasu has been pretending to ignore, and rumors spreading from those recordings in public places…" The Gun Hero pauses, weighing the amount of glaring evidence against Motoyasu's willful ignorance.
"It might be enough to really break his delusions or at least remove Malty from the equation." Misato nods and looks back at the Crystal Ball projection of the Shadow. "But if we fail, you better get Rino out."
The Shadow nods "Of course, we were planning to do that even before our Mistress ordered us to do so."
"Good." Misato nods.
"We must move urgently Sir Projectile Hero, Rino is in Castle Town as well. She is trapped in a recently established illegal Slave Trade." Dusk says
"Not Beloukas?"
Dawn chimes in "Correct, in fact that slave trader was more than happy to provide information about this illegal trader to 'remove the dirty competition'."
"How did the King miss this?"
Dusk answers "His Majesty's foolishness has blinded him from the corruption that has been running rampant ever since the Cardinal Heroes have been summoned. As the Nobles used their connections to sneak this trader inside Castle Town for more convenient trading." Misato can't see Dusk's face but he can sort of imagine the Shadow is glaring and frowning deeply.
Misato groans. "Anything else?"
"Yes, we have reports that one of our agents has successfully gained the trust of the Spear Hero's party. Her current identity is Marina and…"
The Shadow explains the agent's status and the amount of trust she gained from Malty. Misato smiles at the news and explains an idea they can use in case Rino isn't enough.
"What if that fails too?" Dawn asks.
Misato sighs. "If it does fail, get those Shadows to continue bombarding Motoyasu with rumors and gossip about Malty's terrible personality, they can't let up, we can't let him have time to rest and regress to his terrible habits."
Misato theorizes that the reason why Canon Motoyasu still believed in Malty even after being exposed in the trial is because he had time to regress to his dumb skirt chasing antics, he had time to move on from the events, to continue enjoying the 'game' like he always did back at his home, to ignore and cope with the contradictions to keep his little delusional world.
To counter this, Misato's plan for Motoyasu is to constantly rain on his dumb parade, to not let the guy have a moment to breathe any nonsensical bullshit into his brain and move on. Motoyasu will not have any time to bury the piles of evidence and logic like he did in canon.
Misato takes a breath and continues "Meanwhile we'll move on with fixing the Sword Hero and then deal with the church. Once the church is dealt with, we will spend our time dealing with the Spear Hero afterwards. Hopefully all the rumors and public recordings would be enough to wear down the Spear Hero's incorrigible faith in Malty by the time her Majesty returns."
'And if nothing works. Once this Era of Waves ends. I will find a way to twist that STUPID Spear into a pretzel and launch it into the nearest sun, for choosing MORON-yasu!' Misato scowls.
"Very well." Dawn and Dusk nod.
"Oh, and does your mistress have any plans in regards to Lady Eclair Seaetto's situation?"
"Yes, she does." Dawn says and then Dusk explains that Eclair will come out well and healthy perhaps sometime soon.
"Good, time to suit up." Misato says walking out of the room, entering the main dining room of Reichnott's home. Facing his team, Itsuki and Matilda. "Everyone, I got some news. We're not going to meet Ren yet, we need to confront Motoyasu first, because of what Malty just did…"
"What did she do?" Itsuki asks.
The Gun Hero explained the new information. Their reactions varied from disgust to hostility towards Malty.
"And Motoyasu missed that? We should tell the King about what his sick daughter is doing!" Itsuki says, grabbing his Bow.
Misato grabs Itsuki's shoulder, giving the Bow Hero a look of defeat. "The King will not believe us…"
"But the Shadows recorded Malty selling this girl to slavery, and since human slaves are illegal, that should be enough to prove how terrible Malty is!" Itsuki argues. Misato turns to Dusk and Dawn for help.
"Sir Bow Hero, we Shadows have seen the King ignore or conveniently 'forget' the letters from our Queen…" Dawn says. "I've personally witnessed the King dropping the letter with a sigh and have not picked it up since then."
Without missing a beat, Dusk continues "If we showed him the recording, he would likely claim that the recording was altered, maybe even try to hurt us for boldly showing him these so-called 'lies' like he did to some of our Queen's allies when they argued against his foolish decisions."
"What?! But… Thats…" Itsuki stutters, shocked by how bad the King is. He had some idea and suspicion after realizing how rigged Naofumi's trial was and the duel.
"Itsuki, if people said your parents were bad or evil, what would you think?" Misato says.
Itsuki glares into Misato's eyes. "That they are lying." Itsuki says firmly and a few seconds later he gasps. "Oh… I-I think I see what you mean. So even if I said the evidence is real, he would declare me as a fake hero or something..."
"Now you get what we're dealing with?" The Gun Hero says and Itsuki nods. "We need to use this to get through to Motoyasu's delusions or at least get Malty to stop manipulating him."
"What is going on here?" Sadeena says, walking into the room, followed by Reichnott. Rifana and Keel explained the situation to their 'Big Sister'. Itsuki vouches for their explanation about Motoyasu's delusions. The woman frowns and closes her eyes, thinking deeply.
"I'm coming with you." Sadeena states. "There's a chance some of the villagers are in that illegal slave trade. Once that is taken out, the slaves will be rotated out, I must look before that happens. Even if it wasn't, I wish to protect you all from that horrible woman.
Misato nods. "Welcome to the team." Sweet, Sadeena has a high level of 76. Although, since she wasn't part of Hero's team, her stats might not be high, maybe equal or a little more than him and his party. But Misato personally knows she can definitely hold her own.
Ren can wait, Motoyasu and more importantly, Malty needs to be dealt with now.
The Gun Team, Itsuki and Matilda arrived at Castle Town thanks to Itsuki's teleport bow.
Meanwhile Itsuki's other teammates were back at Reichnott's main town since their levels are not high enough yet.
Misato looks at the Gun Compass, but the Bow indicator on the compass is pointing towards Itsuki. Itsuki sighs as well since his Bow Compass is having the same issue. "It was worth a shot." Misato mutters, transforming his gun to the Chimera Viper.
"Where is Motoyasu?" Misato asks Dawn. The Shadow looks beneath their cloak and nods.
"This way."
The Shadows guide the Two Heroes and their teammates. They go through various paths, as they move, the path gets more narrow, and more suspicious. There were various homeless people asleep, and some thugs trying to measure them up. When some tried to corner them, the glares from the entire group scared them off.
The Gun Hero peaks his head out of the alleyway. He turns his head, seeing a familiar blonde in red and silver armor, wielding a spear with a crimson gem. "There he is." He says, walking out and everyone else follows him, Ace comes out of the alley last, frowning, looking at a nearby window, sensing something bad.
"Motoyasu-san" Itsuki calls out, marching towards the Spear Hero, with Misato marching along with him.
"Itsuki-san and…" Motoyasu pauses seeing Misato, jealousy aches in his chest. "You…" He mutters remembering the gun wielder's relationship to the beautiful angel. The line of thought makes Motoyasu realize Fia was missing. "Hey where's Fia-chan?"
Misato raises his hand "No time to explain, you-"
"Someone help me!" A girl screams.
Misato's turns to the source, seeing a vague figure in a window being violently yanked away.
"Up there! The girl who screamed is really scared!" Ace yells, pointing at the same window. "She is surrounded by really bad people!"
"Rino?" Motoyasu mutters in confusion. Misato's eyes narrowed, recognizing the voice from the recordings. He observes the building, noting that its two stories tall.
"Motoyasu-san, we're here to tell you that Rino has been enslaved and that must be her!" Itsuki says, grabbing his Bow from his back.
"What if it's just a prostitute that sounds like Rino and is doing some kink plays for her cilent?" Motoyasu asks.
Everyone glares at the Spear Hero for his ridiculous question.
"In a world like this?!" Itsuki yells, shocked by Motoyasu's denial.
"Spear Hero, bed plays are only in private where it cannot be heard from outside, not in a brothel." Matilda says, grabbing her knife. "And even in a home, such odd plays are rare to happen and that…" She points her knife at the building. "Is not, a brothel…"
Motoyasu stares at the building, conflicted. Misato rolls his eyes, grabbing the blond's shoulders, his amber eyes staring directly into Motoyasu's crimson eyes. "Think of it this way, if we go and you're right, then we only get embarrassed and have ruined the mood for some weirdos. But if we don't go and you're wrong…?"
The implications finally hit Motoyasu, he tightens his grip on the spear and frowns. "… I should check."
"Yes you should, but not alone…" Misato says. Motoyasu bites the bottom of his lip, observing the building then Misato's team, and nods.
"Okay." Motoyasu "I'm coming Rino-ack!" Misato grabs his cape, stopping him from charging in.
"Hold it, we need to make sure the exits are covered so the slavers don't escape." The Gun Hero says, turning to everyone else. "There are three door exits but lots of windows. We'll split up in pairs, Keel and Sadeena. You go to the northwest side.
Itsuki, Matilda you got south. Rifana, Motoyasu and I will go after Rino and any other slaves nearby. Dawn and Dusk, you handle the third exit."
Misato finally turns to the Filolial "Ace I need you to stay outside, there are multiple windows, those slave traders and hunters could escape from outside, you got better hearing, and you're fast enough to stop them from getting away and doing more bad things."
Misato transforms his gun to the Grappling Gun, hooking onto the roof next to the window where Rino yelled. "Let's go! Rifana, Motoyasu, grab on!"
The blonde weasel latches on to Misato quickly, they both turn and stare at Motoyasu. The Spear Hero frowns and sighs pushing his pride away, grabbing on to the Gun Hero.
"Here we go!" Misato activates the hook and it lifts the three of them up. "Kick off the wall!" All three of them place their feet on the wall and kick, swinging them back. "Brace!" Misato yells as they swing right into the window.
Misato, Rifana and Motoyasu go through the glass, but instead of a smooth cinematic roll or landing. The three stumbled, crashed into each other and fell into an awkward dog pile. Fortunately, anime logic doesn't dictate this world, as Misato and Motoyasu were lying on their stomachs on the wooden floor, and Rifana was on her back on top of the guys. None of their positions were lewd nor was anyone accidentally groping each other in the pile.
"What the hell?!" A man yells. The three quickly got up from the pile, raising their weapons, facing the man who yelled.
The man was in his 40s and balding, caucasian. He wasn't alone, there were two other similar aged men. They had no shirts, one was in his underwear and in the center was a young girl in her mid teens, with auburn hair and green eyes. To Misato, she looked oddly familiar but that line of thought was immediately removed the moment he saw that the girl's clothing was torn, exposing her skin, her eye is bruised and her undamaged eye was filled with tears.
"You…" Misato mutters, if he had a cheap gun, he probably would have broken it with his grip.
"Bastards!" Motoyasu finishes, charging with his spear. He is quickly followed by Rifana with her spear, aiming for a different target.
Misato shoots his grabbing hook at the table behind the last man and pulls it. The table pulls the creep forward to the Gun Hero. Allowing Misato to brutally clothesline the man while slamming the furniture into him at the same time, instantly knocking the man out.
The scums' levels were around 30 to 40, they were taken care of with ease.
"What's going on here-" A man yells while opening the door, but Misato fires the Chimera Viper fangs.
The Viper fangs hits the man's throat, killing him instantly due to the number gap. Misato turns to see Motoyasu covering Rino with his red cape. "Rino-chan…" He mutters softly.
"Lord Motoyasu!" The girl cries, hugging the Spear Hero.
Motoyasu is stunned, Misato sees a hint of fear on his face but then it quickly fades. Motoyasu slowly wraps his arms around the girl and gently rubs her head. "It's okay… I'm here." The Spear Hero whispers as the girl's cries soften.
The sight stuns Misato, as it is different from where Motoyasu in the manga shoved a distraught Rishia to Naofumi and ran off, but here, Motoyasu is attempting to comfort Rino.
This is perhaps the first time Misato sees Motoyasu in a heroic light.
It looks good.
Later on, Sadeena, Keel and Rifana searched for the villagers. Misato, Itsuki and Ace helped the Demi-human slaves get out. Motoyasu continued comforting Rino with Matilda assisting him. Then finally, using Teleport Bow and Gun, the demi-humans were evacuated to Reichnott's territory, meanwhile the significant number of illegal human slaves were freed by the local knights and guards.
But the Gun Hero's time in Castle Town does not end here.
Erhard groans at the sound of knocking on his front door, he was about to eat dinner! The blacksmith sighs, standing up, walking through his store and to the main door.
Erhard looks through the windows, seeing the young man, Misato and his team. He opens the door. "What are you doing here? Do you have any idea how much heat you got after…" His voice trails off seeing the Bow Hero and the Spear Hero but then he focuses on the young girl in red cloak and her bruised eye, hugging the Spear Hero's arm.
Misato winces. "Sorry, I don't know any other safe area nearby to rest for a bit, I'll pay-
The blacksmith raises his hand. "No need, I think I get the gist." He opens the door wide. "Quick, get inside."
The group moves inside the shop, they go behind Erhard's counter and into his home.
"Bathroom is upstairs, first door to the right." Erhard says, pointing at the stairs. Matilda nods, gently rubbing Rino's shoulder.
"Come, I'll help you clean up." Matilda says, comforting the girl, due to her own experience with young people.
Rino turns to Motoyasu "Can you come too and stay near the door please?" She requests with a pleading expression.
Motoyasu nods. "I'll be there." They carefully moved upstairs, as the young girl didn't let go of his arm.
Meanwhile, Erhard places his hand on the dinner table, facing Misato on the other side. "What's going on?" he asks the Gun Hero.
Misato sighs, he and his team explains what happened to Rino.
Erhard slams his arm on the table, nearly breaking it. "DAMN! Next time I see her, I'll…" He growls "I don't care who her parents are! She needs to pay for what she did!"
"Calm down, we all agree with you…" Misato says, trying to placate the blacksmith.
"Sorry… It's just, that young girl nearly got ra…" Erhard pauses looking at Ace, who is the youngest person in the room.
"I mean-
"Rino nearly got mated by force." Ace interrupts with a frown, shocking Erhard. Before anyone speaks, Ace continues "Don't lie, Ace knows, Ace smelled it. Ace helped other girls that got mated by force."
The Royal Filolial steps toward Erhard. "Ace was warned by Fia about really REALLY bad people who might want to mate with Ace, even if Ace doesn't want to. Like that Rikert guy when he looked at Ace's Big Sisters."
Ace scowls, clenching his fists. "Why do people do these bad things? Why can't they mate and be happy like Mama and Papa? Why did those bad men wanted to mate with Rino even if she didn't want to?" Ace asks.
Sadeena frowns, walking over to Ace and kneels. "Sometimes, people do bad things, and sometimes people do good things… It's what they choose to do. They can be tempted by their bad desires and act on it, no matter how evil it is."
"So, they just do bad things because they want to and do not care?"
"Yes."
"Ace wants to stop all the bad people…" The Filolial growls.
"We will." Misato assures, rubbing Ace's head.
While Rino took her time bathing, Misato spoke to Erhard for new equipment.
"Here." Erhard says, removing some cloth, revealing dark gray metal armor. "It's better than the wyvern armor, the only issue is that it's a little bigger and slightly heavier."
"Thanks." Misato says politely with a nod. The blacksmith then raises a sword with a small cross guard, Misato grabs the sheathe and blinks, thrown off by its lightness. He grabs the handle and unsheathes it but it comes out with a pop, like a cork. The handle has no blade.
"This is the special Mana blade you ordered, this one has an enchantment that not only stops the enemies' mana flow and stuns them but you can also steal some of the enemy's mana."
Misato grins. "Thanks." Before Misato went back to Riyute village with Naofumi after the duel, he requested Erhard to make this sword in case he ran out of ammo and needed more mana to create Mana Bullets. Having a sword that stuns, disables and steals his opponent's mana is useful for the Gun Hero with his finite ammunition.
Misato concentrates his mana and a transparent golden blade appears. Instead of a long sword with a weird clover like the one Raphtalia used, it's shaped more like a rapier or a thin long sword.
Misato's vision suddenly turns black.
Misato sees a woman with brown long hair holding a rapier sword with a purple gemstone at the crossguard. The woman extends her free hand towards Misato with a polite smile.
"Pleasure to meet you Mr. Smith, my name is Agathe, I am the Vassal Duelist Hero. I shall train you how to fight against sword fighters-
"Oi! You alright?" Erhard says, raising his voice, leaning over the counter, shaking Misato's shoulder.
The Gun Hero blinks and nods. "I'm good… Just recalling something."
"Okay…" Erhard says, narrowing his eyes.
Misato practices a few swings and thrusts with the sword, he pauses looking at the blade again, the Gun hasn't shocked him for holding another weapon.
Warning:
Hero must finish the enemy off with the Legendary Gun to gain the special benefits. Hero will be shocked if they intend to finish the enemy off with a different weapon.
Misato hums. "Interesting, so I can use other weapons but to gain enhanced Hero Exclusive benefits I have to use the Gun in the end…"
Misato grabs his coin bag. "How much for all the gear everyone got?"
But the blacksmith raises his hand. "Just three Hundred Silvers, an answer and a promise…" His tone suggests no negotiation and stares directly into Misato's eyes. The Gun Hero complies and hands the silvers to the blacksmith.
"Alright, what's your question?" Misato says, crossing his arms.
"I know you had a hand with those people recording in public places of the Princess interfering in that duel, you gathered a lot of attention from that stunt. Lots of people have been gossiping and the Royal Army has been struggling to silence them, tensions have been rising, eventually the Royal Family would need a scapegoat and you're the ideal candidate... What's your end goal here?"
"To unite the Cardinal Heroes and save the world." Misato answers, firmly staring right back into Erhard's eyes.
Erhard hums, closing his eyes. "Okay." He says, opening his eyes. "Promise me that Malty willnot get away with this." He asks, raising his open hand.
Misato takes Erhard's hand firmly and they both shake. "She won't get away…"
The blacksmith smiles but then blinks seeing a gold coin in his hand.
"Hey, this is more than we agreed." Erhard says, holding out the coin.
"The rest isn't payment. It's a gift." Misato says with a smile.
Erhard grins, clenching the coin.
"Thanks."
Rino got cleaned up and a new pair of clothing, designed for a mage. The moment the girl put on the hat, Misato recognized her, remembering the Shield vs Spear fight round 3, where Motoyasu believed Naofumi killed the other heroes. She was the girl with the staff who fired those air spells, but unlike the anime, Rino here is far more expressive and timid, although the latter might be due to recent events she has experienced. Plus, her hair is a bit brighter and longer than in the show.
Misato, Itsuki, Matilda, Motoyasu and Rino sat at the dinner table to discuss what went down, while the others stood nearby.
Rino explained her side of the story, just like the Shadows said, but Rino had more details. Rino was getting bullied out of the party, she tried to say that she wanted to fight alongside Motoyasu but Malty twisted her words, accusing her of wanting to use Motoyasu for fame and glory. Rino lost her temper and smacked the bitch, after that, she was knocked out and woke up in a cage. She saw Malty smiling as she received the bag of coins and when Rino screams from the burning pain of the Slave Seal on her chest.
The rest is history they already know.
Everyone's reaction was about the same, but they were calmer as they were aware of it ahead of time. However, Motoyasu…
"You're certain it was Myne?" Motoyasu asks with some uncertainty. Rino stares at him with her mouth agape, unable to comprehend the question.
"Yes!" Rino finally answers. "I KNOW WHAT I SAW!"
"It can't be…" Motoyasu says with uncertainty in his voice, as his eyes shift back and forth frequently, his hand twitches.
Rifana's eye twitches, Keel grinds her teeth, Erhard clenches his fists. Sadeena and Matilda glare at the Spear Hero silently judging him. Ace frowns, raising his eyebrow in slight confusion of the Spear Hero's emotions he is sensing.
"You can't be serious! After what Misato said about Malty and what she did in the duel and the race and now this!" Itsuki yells, gesturing his open hand at Rino.
Misato meanwhile grabs the crystal ball, projecting Malty's interference in the duel and the race.
"All the evidence is here and with Rino's confession, Malty is clearly an evil person." Misato states.
Motoyasu stares at the recordings and looks at Rino. He shakes his head. "NO! Rino was hurt and hit in the head. It might have been someone else! Those rumors are wrong! Myne is not evil!"
Slam!
Rifana, Keel and Itsuki leap forward over the table but Misato, Matilda and Sadeena stop them.
"YOU ARE FUCKING IDIOT!" Keel screams. Trying to reach out, to punch or claw the Spear Hero with her hands out of frustration of the Spear Hero's stubbornness. But she was unable to escape from Sadeena's solid grip.
"This isn't a game Motoyasu!" Itsuki yells. Matilda holds his shoulders and pulls him back.
"Calm yourselves!" Misato yells, silencing the three. Rifana sighs as she stops trying to escape Misato's grip. "You good?" He whispers to Rifana and the girl nods.
Motoyasu sits on his chair, completely stunned and afraid from the amount of rage he just witnessed. Reminding him of Fia's outrage when they talked.
Misato walks over to Ace, leaning down to the Filolial's height. The bird boy cups his hands and whispers to Misato's ear.
"W-we don't know the full story yet, we should speak to Myne about it." Motoyasu argues.
"You-"
"ENOUGH!" Misato yells, stopping everyone from yelling. Everyone turns to him, staring. "We'll confront Malty a little later. I got some things to say to Rino, alone…" Keel and Rifana reluctantly nod, walking upstairs to not witness more of Motoyasu's idiocy.
The Spear Hero frowns. "I'll be near…" He says his intent behind those words were clear. The hero leaves the room somewhat tense.
"Why is the Spear Hero like this?" Rino asks, incredulous. "How could he deny everything so easily? I was speaking the truth! All those gossips, rumors and public recordings are clearly true after what she just did to ME! I should have never joined the party."
"Rino." Misato interrupts, and the Mage pauses.
"There is something you need to know about the Heroes…"
Misato describes Motoyasu's life with some of what he knows, and he omits the secrets Motoyasu kept regarding his death. Itsuki vouches for him, explaining that he died too. Making Rino sympathetic towards the Spear Hero instead of incredulous and disappointed.
"Oh my god…" Rino mutters as Matilda rubs the girl's shoulder.
Misato stands up. "Everyone check your equipment one last time, once we have everything, we'll confront the Princess." He faces a Shadow. "Is she ready?" He asks.
The Shadow nods. "She is ready to proceed with the plan." Dusk says.
"What should I do?" Erhard asks. The Gun Hero raises his hand, shaking his head at the Blacksmith.
"Erhard… You have done more than enough here." Misato takes a breath. "Whatever happens, grab any friends and good people that have helped Naofumi and I. Then get out of Castle Town as soon as possible…"
Misato's stare sends chills into the ex-adventurer's spine. Which is something Erhard had not experienced for a long time after he retired from adventuring.
"You are right, tensions are high and tonight it's going to break."
Like Misato said, tensions are high, and half of the group is glaring at Motoyasu, who has been stiffly walking the whole time. Not even trying to act like things are good like he normally does after dealing with something that contradicts his delusions. Like earlier when many girls tried to call out to Motoyasu but he ignored them.
Matilda and Itsuki were nearby in the shadows, by the alleyways or the rooftops, prepared to help if the situation called for it without revealing them.
Rino has been anxiously clenching her new staff about meeting Malty due to her last interaction with the Devilish Princess, she is now standing next to Sadeena for safety instead of Motoyasu.
Misato can't blame the girl since she finally witnessed Motoyasu's delusional act. Misato scowls and walks forward towards Motoyasu, trying to see Malty before she sees them.
They walk past several buildings, and as they continue, they see less and less people outside, as it is time for most people to rest for the night. They continue their walk uphill, until Ace growls, and Misato spots a familiar redhead at the peak of the hill, she seems to be talking with the other party members, including a new girl with aquamarine hair.
Motoyasu gasps and takes a breath.
"Hey-"
A fingerless black gloved hand slaps over Motoyasu's mouth and another arm grabs the limb holding the spear. Motoyasu, using his free arm, grabs the hand and pulls but to no avail. He turns to see Misato covering his mouth and holding his arm.
The Gun Hero shakes his head. "Sorry but stay quiet and listen to Malty's conversation with that girl." He whispers, Motoyasu in response jerks and struggles, trying to escape his grasp but Misato's level and stats are too high for the Spear Hero to make a difference.
Keel grabs Motoyasu's other arm and Rifana grabs the Spear itself. The three of them drag the struggling Spear Hero through the alleyway with Sadeena and Rino checking if their path is clear. The girls get closer and closer to the group, hearing Malty's voice more clearly with the other girls but not enough, Dawn quickly uses a spell, enhancing their ability to hear.
They were talking about having Motoyasu bring them to a luxurious hot spring.
The Spear Hero mumbles, trying to scream under Misato's hand. "Shut up and listen!" Misato whisper yells. "Trying to escape our grasp doesn't prove us wrong, we need to hear how Malty behaves without you around, if she is good then we'll let you go." Motoyasu reluctantly stops his struggle and nods, certain Malty is a good person.
Misato turns to Dusk and nods. The Shadows grabs a small marble, it glows a small white light in his hand.
A woman, in early twenties with aquamarine hair tied into a ponytail, wearing a somewhat fashionable archer garb with a elegantly carved wooden bow on her back, she blinks, putting her hand into her pocket, and her eyes widened for a second. She lifts her hand back up and clears her throat, getting the girls' attention.
"Princess Malty, may I ask something?
Malty and the two other girls, Elena and Lesty stop, facing the girl.
"Yes Marina?" Malty asks.
"What are your thoughts on the Spear Hero?" The woman now named Marina says. "I have heard of the stories but I have to admit meeting him in person was…" The woman's voice trails off, giving the Princess a wincing expression.
Malty smirks "Disappointing?"
Motoyasu stiffens hearing those words, while Misato feels a surge of vindictiveness, finally Motoyasu is hearing things he should have heard a long time ago instead of letting him take all the implications, evidence, and pretending it doesn't exist. Especially knowing what Rino went through and the possible scars she would have received were it not for his interference. If this happened in the story, then who knows how much damage Malty caused in canon behind the scenes…
Marina smiles back and speaks "Yes. I was disappointed, I thought he would be more handsome, but I suppose he's okay…" Lesty stifles a giggle at Marina's comment. "Although I can't believe how easy it is to get him to do what you want though. I thought it would be tough."
Misato, Rifana and Keel, drag Motoyasu to peek out to witness the girls saying these words with his own eyes, hiding their heads using illusion magic and the natural shadows. Fortunately, the Spear Hero is in too much shock to even resist.
"I understand." Malty says with a smug grin. "So many people always hype up about the Legendary Heroes, only for them to be perverts that would listen to any girl with a decent face."
"So, what should we do?" Marina grins.
Lesty leans forward to Marina "Sweetie, as long as you follow along with us. We are guaranteed to live a nice easy pampered life. All we have to do is spit his bad food out when he isn't looking and always make him happy with false compliments and smiles."
'What if he finds out the truth though?" Marina questions with a small frown and look of concern.
"Don't worry, father will take care of the Spear Hero, especially when his dearest daughter and her precious friends tell him about the Spear Hero's misdeeds and abuse to them." Malty says with a malicious grin. "Or maybe just stuff his face into our tits, he might just forget about it since he's so stupid."
The Princess and the girls giggle.
Motoyasu's vision becomes blurry and dark from seeing Malty say those horrible things, since she is the one she trusts the most. Unaware the crimson gemstone on his Spear is glowing.
It can't be… Why would she do this?
After everything, after the horrible things people said about Malty, saying how the illegal public recordings were lies and how quickly he leaped to the girl's defense-
Misato whispers, interrupting Motoyasu's mental thoughts. "Do you finally get it? Malty is a horrible girl, stop avoiding the facts! Malty doesn't care. Stop lying to yourself just because it's easier to swallow than the truth! Grow up already! This is the real world and-"
The Gun Hero gasps as golden light blinds him but he doesn't let go of the Spear Hero, neither do Rifana and Keel. They hear Malty and the girls yell but couldn't hear their words clearly.
They grit their teeth, clinging onto Motoyasu tightly, preparing themselves for whatever escape attempt the Spear Hero will do.
Only to find themselves clinging to the air.
"What?" Rifana gasps.
"He teleported?!" Keel whispers in shock.
"Fuck…" Misato mutters with a scowl. That damn flaky ass Hero! He got caught up in the moment of feeling vindictive and forgot the guy has a terrible trait of running away from his problems!
"He really did kick us out of the party?!" Lesty gasps.
Misato's eyes widened at the news. Motoyasu teleported without the girls?!
"That golden light, could it have been him?" Elena inquires.
"They're coming!" Ace mutters.
Misato's team hears several footsteps approaching the alleyway they are hiding at.
"Hide here!" Dusk whispers and they all move as quietly as possible.
Motoyasu's former teammates turn the corner, seeing nothing.
"You think he heard us?" Marina asks.
Malty bites her thumb. "We need to speak to my Father now!"
Malty along with Lesty, Elena and Marina leave the alleyway, approaching the castle at a brief pace.
Misato peaks his head out of the other corner of the alleyway frowning. He looks at the Gun Compass and sighs as it still is tracking the closest hero, Itsuki.
The Gun Hero feels drops of water hit his head and he looks up, seeing clouds covering the moon. He hears a thunder crack, officially signifying the beginning of a storm.
Where did Motoyasu go?
Motoyasu runs through the forest, rain falls hard, soaking through his armor but he pays no mind to it as his thoughts are filled with something else.
He remembers how Myne answered his questions about the Duel and the Race interference, how she firmly answered his questions truthfully, saying she had good intentions and that Naofumi didn't deserve fairness for what he did to her. But now in his memory, her expression looked fake, tense, like she was hiding something and he didn't notice…
He remembers his discussion with Myne and the others about recruiting Fia to his party.
'What?! That little bit- bad girl insulted me!'
It almost sounded like Myne was going to call Fia a bitch. How did he miss something like that? That can't be right! She wasn't going to say that, he must have imagined it.
Maybe… Maybe back at Castle Town it must have been a girl who looked like-
'Motoyasu Kitamura, what do you hope to gain by ignoring your problems? Running away won't make them go away.' Fia's voice echoes.
Motoyasu groans, placing his hand over his head, suddenly feeling a migraine. He doesn't see the Spear's gemstone is glowing
'You abandon those who are good and are in need of help, by sticking yourself to Malty.' Misato's voice echoes.
He remembers Rino describing Myne's actions and what she did to the mage. Were it not for Misato and Itsuki telling him about Rino, he would have thought it was some prostitute… Myne, Lesty and Elena said Rino left…
Was Misato right? But then how did he not see…
'... To meet a human who uses their willpower to almost forget memories…' Fia's voice echoes.
Motoyasu gasps as a sharp feeling of pain erupts in his head, he falls against a tree, leaning against it. A flood of memories pour through his mind, memories he buried by sheer will.
He remembers how Myne behaved, her frowns, the looks of irritation she failed to hide beneath her eyes. Every little nitpick and minor problem she had during their adventures. Then Myne's mood got worse as people kept gossiping behind her back, and yet he ignored it all, even helped placate the difficult woman and told off those people for gossiping false rumors.
'Motoyasu, it's good to be polite but remember it doesn't matter if they are girls, they can be as bad as men too.' His mother's voice echoes.
Motoyasu's mind flashes again.
Seeing himself lying on the ground with blood pouring out of his stomach.
The Spear Hero collapses against the tree and a tear falls out of his eye. How long has it been since he has heard his mother's voice?
Motoyasu clenches his fist.
Damn it…
Damn it…
DAMN IT!
Motoyasu slams his fist against the mud.
Why!
WHY!
Why is he alone… Why does he have no one by his side? No one to truly trust…
Like Raphtalia, declaring her full faith to Naofumi… Declaring those words so confidently and wholeheartedly that a blind and deaf man could tell.
Sp3&r 0f 3Nvy?!
Pr05ces1ng C0nd1Iti0n5s!? 20%!
Or Fia, defending Misato and his actions… Her stoic expression, softening whenever she looks at Misato, the look of loyalty and true companionship beneath her cold but also beautiful gaze.
Spear 0f 3Nvy?!
Procces1ng C0ndIti0n5s! 30%!
Why…
"Uh… M-motoyasu…?" A voice interrupts Motoyasu's thoughts.
Why-
…
Wait
That wasn't in his head.
The Spear Hero leans his head up, seeing Rino, staring at him in pity.
Earlier
"What! He kicked us out?!" Malty yells.
Rino gasps hearing the bitch's exclamation. What's going on? Misato, Rifana and Keel are still clinging onto Motoyasu despite that bright light blinding everyone. What should she do?
A familiar status magic window appears in her vision.
The Spear H?er0?
Invite you to the Party!
Yes No
She saw this before, when she first joined Motoyasu's party.
Rino bites the bottom of her lip, remembering the events that lead up to her enslavement and she looks at Motoyasu's face. Seeing the look of despair and confusion, filling her with sympathy for the Spear Hero. She remembers her conversation with Misato.
'Before he became the Spear Hero, he was just a commoner, a nobody, in his world. Now he's in a world where he thinks it's a fairytale book, like a paradise for him after death. He thinks that way because it is easier than realizing he is in a new dangerous world like any other.' Misato's voice echoes. 'He died coming here… Death is a terrifying experience that you cannot fully understand.'
Rino frowns at the memory, she looks at the magic window and presses Yes.
Suddenly golden light encompasses her body, she closes her eyes.
A few seconds later, she hears Motoyasu grunting and patches of grass crunching. Rino opens her eyes to see a dark cloud cover the moon and feels rain beginning to fall.
She hears a stick snap and she turns to the sound, seeing the Spear Hero running aimlessly.
Rino follows Motoyasu, carefully navigating the slippery mud and tree branches, keeping the crimson cape within sight.
Eventually the Spear Hero stops, collapsing against a tree.
Rino catches up to him and stares at his current state.
Motoyasu is a mess, there are branches sticking onto his hair and cape. Mud blemishing his silver armor.
She looks at his face, and she sees herself inside that horrible cage.
'Heroes are not gods… They are first and foremost… A person with strengths and weaknesses like everyone else…' Misato's voice echoes in her mind.
Rino clenches her fist and steps forward. "Uh… M-Motoyasu…?" She stutters.
Motoyasu looks up, his eyes are black and baggy. "R-Rino?" He says in confusion.
"I…"
A thunderstrike echoes in the background, causing the two to flinch.
Rino grimaces, the weather is getting worse. She grabs Motoyasu's hand "Come on. We need to find shelter quickly."
The Mage nearly drags the Spear Hero through the forest. "This place looks familiar, I think there's a village behind that hill. We can take shelter at the local inn." She says and Motoyasu wordlessly nods.
After some walking, they discover that Rino is right, this is the same village they went through before going to Lerno Village.
Before they enter the village again. Rino takes some white cloth and two common brown cloaks from the Spear magic inventory. She uses the white cloth to hide the Spear and the cloaks to cover her and Motoyasu's body to prevent people from seeing Motoyasu's current state.
Rino guides Motoyasu, buying a single room for the night, as the other rooms are already taken.
They took their baths and cleaned up, and went to their beds, falling asleep after an exhausting day.
Later… Rino wakes up to the sound of whimpering nearby.
"Motoyasu?" She asks groggily, she leans up and looks at Motoyasu on the other bed.
The man is sweating, tossing and turning in his bed. Rino leaps off her bed, shaking his arm!
"Motoyasu wake up! You're having a nightmare!" Rino yells, trying to stir Motoyasu out of the horrible dream.
The Spear Hero wakes up, gasping, like he was underwater. He looks around in the room frantically, patting his stomach, he lifts his shirt checking something. He then sighs in relief.
"Motoyasu?" Rino inquires
"I'm fine…" Motoyasu says.
Rino frowns "You're not."
Motoyasu turns away "Just go back to bed-
Rino interrupts Motoyasu, hugging his back, and the Spear Hero stiffens "I… I'm still a little scared about what happened… Is it alright if I sleep beside you tonight?"
Motoyasu pauses, grasping Rino's hand, slowly lying back on the bed on his side with Rino still holding on to him.
"Good night…" Motoyasu murmurs
"Good night." Rino whispers softly.
The two fall asleep peacefully, unconscious to the Legendary Spear nearby the bed frame with its gemstone glowing a soft red light. It gently hums and the light slowly pulses like a calm heart beat.
It has been a day since Motoyasu has disappeared, Misato is having Naofumi's party catch up on recent events through the communication weapons.
"To think she is that petty…" Naofumi growls in disgust.
"How horrible…" Raphtalia mutters with her hands over her mouth.
"Ya." Misato says on the screen, grimacing.
"Running away and ignoring anything that upsets his mood… What is he, a 10 year old?" Naofumi scoffs, ignoring Raphtalia's grimace at his comment.
"Although, looking back, the teleport was kind of sudden." Misato ponders.
"What do you mean?"
"No one heard him yell something like 'Teleport Spear!' It just activated and it also dragged Rino along, even though she wasn't in his party during that time." Misato says with a frown, furrowing his eyebrows. "As far as I am aware, Heroes aren't capable of activating skills without verbal command."
"That is weird, but does that mean at some point we won't need to say the name but just activate them with our minds?" Naofumi asks with a glint in his eyes. Having the capability to do skills or abilities without saying it outloud would be useful.
"Maybe, it could make using skills less of a hassle in a fight."
"Mhm."
"Um, do you have any idea where he went?" Raphtalia asks, pulling back the subject.
"I do. It's possible he went somewhere west, maybe near Lerno Village." Misato proposes. "Since I heard his recent activity was dealing with that Village's famine problem before heading back to Castle Town."
"Wait… Lerno?" Naofumi says.
"Yep."
"We're heading over there now to give the village some plant killer potions." Raphtalia says in surprise. "The village is having a plant infestation problem."
Misato's eyes widened, remembering about the episode where Naofumi and his team had to fight a plant monster Motoyasu caused.
"That means… Motoyasu might actually face the consequences of his actions." Misato realizes, muttering quietly. "He could actually realize his mistake and face it, he didn't in the story…" In the show, Motoyasu never had that chance to see the damage he caused. This is one hell of an opportunity, because it's one thing for it to happen in a 'video game' and be told off by some other 'player' but it's another thing to personally see how horrifying one's actions were in person.
Not only that, but Naofumi is heading over there to solve the problem like canon, but there's a chance that Motoyasu would be there too with Rino. The Mage knows about Motoyasu's mental state, expressing sympathy for the Spear Hero, Ace confirmed it when he sensed her emotions. Rino could guide Motoyasu to be better and if he works with Naofumi to fix his mistakes. They could form a bond over solving this problem together, they could guarantee to bring Motoyasu on their side and away from Malty!
Now the odds of Motoyasu being an ally is not a coin toss!
"Naofumi, this might be the perfect situation. You have an opportunity to establish an alliance with Motoyasu and keep track of him before the Church or that bitch can get to him!" Misato exclaims.
"Are you going to come along with Rifana, Keel and Big Sis?" Raphtalia asks with some hope to see her friends and Sadeena.
"Uh, we can't, we're going to confront Ren." Misato says and Raphtalia mood dims. "The strange storm is over and the mud in the mountain is starting to dry up. I got word that Ren is approaching the dragon in a few days. Ace has been booking it."
"Also, after everything with Rikert's death, Itsuki's going dark from the Church's stalkers, and now Motoyasu is separated from Malty, who is one of their allies… I'm not taking any chances, we gotta do what we can about the heroes before we deal with that preachy asshole." Misato says with a frown.
"Wait, I'm going to have to deal with Motoyasu without you?" Naofumi asks, incredulous to the idea of talking to the most adverse hero among the three without the Gun Hero.
"Mhm." Misato nods
"What about Itsuki?" Naofumi says, remembering the news about Itsuki's harsh reality slap. Maybe he could help.
"Itsuki is heading North, helping Matilda, his teammate, save her Niece, if the situation there is the same as I know, then some noble asshole is fucking with a rare one of a kind Genuine Noble family." Misato then explains about the Ivryed family's 'ungraceful' lifestyle.
"A family of Nobles that aren't lazy, overly indulgent tyrants? That is rare." Naofumi shakes his head. "But isn't this more important? With the Church likely to try and kill us in a panic?"
"I don't have the right to stop Itsuki from helping the ONLY person in his team that didn't stab him in the back." Misato says firmly, besides, Rishia is important if she is truly the next Projectile Hero and the Ivryed family are one of the few good Noble Families that exist in Melomarc, they need to survive and lead that Northern area of Melomarc instead of a corrupted one.
Fortunately his statement causes Naofumi to pause, remembering Itsuki got betrayed as well. Naofumi then remembers Raphtalia declaring her loyalty to him instead of freedom.
"You got a point… But Motoyasu and I had butt heads the most! I doubt it's going to work out well."
"But without Malty dragging his head under water, there's a decent chance he can be reasoned with, especially after what happened when we eavesdropped on that bitch." Misato counters. "For once, Malty isn't there to shut off his brain like she dabbed him with drugs."
Naofumi closes his eyes, thinking deeply. He sighs "I'll try but…"
Misato raises two fingers. "Remember, there are two heroes Malty has betrayed…"
Naofumi's eyes widened, remembering the bitch sticking her tongue out. He scowls and Raphtalia pats his shoulder, trying to comfort him. The Shield Hero sighs and grabs her hand, nodding in appreciation. "I'm fine, go check on Filo and Sakura and supply the carriage." The demi-human nods and walks over to the two girls.
"Right now, Naofumi, you might have the best chance to reach out and break Malty's chain on Motoyasu for good. You need to be the bigger man of the two and close the gap, before he regresses again."
"Why do I have to compromise and negotiate with that idiot after the trouble he caused?" Naofumi grumbles
"Because at this moment, whether you like it or not, you are the best person with the chance to reach out to Motoyasu. I can't right now, I need to talk to Ren before he makes a huge mistake."
Naofumi grits his teeth. Misato is right, he understands what it's like to be backstabbed by bitch and Motoyasu is likely somewhere in the same direction where he's going. The village Ren is going to is in the East, Misato has little time to go back now, especially if the Church and the King truly are getting anxious with what the Gun Hero is doing.
"And if I fail?" Naofumi asks.
"Then, explain to Motoyasu that the game is in hardcore mode with perma-death or something." Misato answers. "Anything to convince the guy to take things seriously or be more cautious. You must at least explain how evil the church is and how bad Malty is, so we can keep him on our side, even if he is still delusional."
"Guess this will do… I'll do what I can if I find him." Naofumi says.
"Alright, any other questions." Misato says
"Well-"
"Misato, we got some important news!" Keel says urgently. "Come out now!"
"Sorry Naofumi, I gotta go." Misato says.
"It's fine. Don't die out there."
"You too." Misato says before disconnecting.
Naofumi sighs, he's uncertain what to think of Misato, the guy is a lot more reliable than the stooges, it's suspicious, but considering what is at stake, the guy has little reason to throw him under the bus like the others. Despite the Bird Queen's favoritism of the Gun Hero, she definitely would kick Misato's ass if he does anything to sabotage the Unity of the Heroes on purpose.
Naofumi is a little irritated with how he had to follow Misato's lead, but the Gun Hero has been correct and it has been beneficial.
The Shield Hero grins at the memory, seeing the recording of the bitch's interference in the duel and the race getting exposed in public was awesome. It made his whole day, seeing people gossip and questioning the Trash's integrity.
But on the other hand when he asked Misato about those Shinobi like people and Misato's relation to them.
"You would be surprised with how many enemies Malty has created before your summoning. I met quite a few people who would love nothing more than to ruin her. Even if it's slow."
It didn't seem like a lie but Misato is definitely hiding something. Even with decent story knowledge, Misato himself said there is a limit. So how did he meet these people? If Misato's knowledge includes books but only knows the anime, and from what Naofumi remembers, Anime most of the time cut content and details from the book sources so Misato might not know a lot of things. Especially behind the scenes details, Misato admitted he was caught off guard about that Mage girl's enslavement.
But on the upside… It's good that Itsuki and Ren believe in him, especially now that Itsuki got his wake up call, he's got 10 Strengthening methods now! Misato is right, the sooner they get their dose of reality, the easier it is for them to accept it rather than later. His explanation about the delusions becoming solid over time does make sense.
Naofumi frowns, feeling sympathetic for the Three Heroes. They died and that's why they are delusional, why they are so certain this world is a game. Did Misato explain how he got here?
Naofumi's eyes widened, could Misato have died too…? Would explain Misato's eyes before they departed
"They died, Naofumi, something no one can fully understand, the feeling, the cold…" Misato's eyes turn blank, pausing at the word 'cold'. He shakes his head and continues.
Might be why Misato understands them so deeply, but if he died too, how did he not delude himself into thinking he's an anime protagonist? Maybe because Fitoria helped him recover and didn't take advantage of his vulnerable mind, unlike some people…
Naofumi places the last box into the carriage and takes a seat with Filo and Sakura both pulling them to their next destination. 'Moving on… I seriously doubt Motoyasu has a decent chance of redemption, considering the chills I got from Fitoria when she talked to that idiot.'
'Then Misato tried to convince the idiot how bad Malty obviously is when they rescued that Mage girl, who confessed about the bitch's actions and Motoyasu was somehow dangling on the damn fence! If Misato couldn't succeed with GIANT evidence like that, how can I change Motoyasu?'
"I'll do what I can and Misato better not blame me if I fail." Naofumi says with reluctant acceptance.
The Shield Party continues their journey west, Naofumi mentally summarizes the situation of Lerno Village, plants have gone out of control and now there are enhanced monsters roaming about. Taking down the plant might bring up his rep and some good coins. At least Misato said so… But the reward money is definitely the main prize here.
The further they went into the forest, the more dense the greenery became and the frequency of monsters increased. Naofumi's party had to stop multiple times to fight the monsters before continuing.
After the skirmish, Raphtalia gasps "Naofumi-sama, look up ahead!" bringing the Shield Hero's attention forward.
Naofumi's eyes narrow, struggling to see the figure up ahead. As they get closer, Naofumi notices the figure is wearing something red and has a Spear on their back with a crimson gemstone.
The Shield Hero looks at the Shield Compass and sees the symbol of the Spear pointing directly at the familiar figure.
Naofumi clicks his tongue "I am really starting to hate it when Misato is right…"
Sorry for the long wait. I have a full time job now and that job involves sitting for a long time. So the idea of sitting down to write a chapter is unappealing. I got a bit burnt out in the process too.
There was also a section that I originally intended to put in this chapter instead of what we got so ya, I had to do some rewriting… Although you can go ahead and check it out. It's in "The Gun Hero's Alternate Takes". I imagine it would be quite the cathartic chapter. "The Gun Hero's Alternate Takes" is an archive of chapters or ideas I initially had but then changed later. Especially in cases where I write a section, only to realize it's not consistent with the characters. It could also be an archive of interesting crossover ideas like Misato or Forrest getting 'isekai ed' to different worlds after their time as the Gun Hero.
Like Misato reincarnating in Ariferuta's Earth for a bit before canon. Then remembering Kouki's personality and realizing Misato is in the SAME classroom as Kouki…
Misato screams "NO GOD! NO GOD PLEASE NO! NO... NNNNOOOOOO-" (Cut to anime opening).
Or having a time travel omake where Misato and Naofumi meet their predecessors. Maybe even an epic brief Gun-Fu fight between Misato and Forrest. And a heartwarming moment of Fitoria reuniting with her father-like figures. Maybe even meeting baby Fitoria.
Because, I am not having a time travel arc, that's territory I don't want to mess with. Time travel is always a bit iffy in writing.
Moving on, Initially I wanted to make a big chapter involving Motoyasu, the Queen and some hints for the next major chapter but then I realized, with my job, I won't be able to complete it any time soon, plus the length is pretty big. So big that it's kind of ridiculous, at least I think so.
The one thing thatkind of deters me from reading big Fanfiction stories, is the length of the chapters. Can't really describe it, but sometimes I feel that some long chapters are a bit too much.
Anyway, to justify Rino's situation being a little different, I say it's due to the butterfly effect. Misato's actions and presence. Truthfully, I wanted these events to happen in Castle Town and thought this could work. Just to have that little intermission moment with Erhard and new equipment. Rino's circumstances are inspired by "An Unexpected Villain And An Unlikely Savior" written by All Sight. Note that in this case Rino did join Motoyasu's party and helped with his efforts to get the Miracle Seed.
So ya, Sadeena has joined the Gun Hero's party, as finding Lurolono survivors would probably be easier with the Church out of the way and the fact that she doesn't want Rifana and Keel to get hurt in this dangerous journey. Romance? Idk, I personally don't like the idea, I see why it can work but, Misato is a Self insert as well and I personally don't see Sadeena in that romantic light. Sorry Sadeena fans, she's not my Waifu… Put the tridents down!
But Sadeena as a companion to look up to and receive wisdom from? Most likely. Without Fitoria, Team Gun Hero doesn't have any experienced fighters to give advice and mentor them.
I have different plans for S'yne but I imagine/hope you will like it.
Fitoria will definitely take some time beyond "Season 1" of this series for any romance to happen or develop if she is the one for Misato and maybe another girl.
About Rishia, you are right, her potential is wasted if she is with the Bow Hero only. So don't worry, Misato's got an idea in store.
About everyone saying Motoyasu will be the toughest, you are correct, in this case Misato did underestimate a bit of Motoyasu's stubbornness but he did partially succeed, but it's on the level of a duct tape sealing a crack temporarily. It's now up to Naofumi to reach out.
I figured that Misato's plan or basis of a plan could work. To constantly attack Motoyasu's delusional walls, and to NOT allow him to recover from it. Especially dropping major bombs like having Motoyasu hear Malty's true thoughts of him.
I theorize that in canon, after a little bit Motoyasu regressed to his annoying habits after the trial, which is evident when Malty tried to poison Naofumi's pie and when he was told, he thought it was… a LIE of all things!
In summary, imagine the "Scroll of Truth." Meme.
Motoyasu finds the Scroll of Truth and reads it.
"Malty (Myne/Bitch/Whore) is the worst girl."
Motoyasu throws the scroll "NYEHH!"
It's like any contradiction to his mental image of the world is eventually forgotten in canon. Like Raphtalia calling his stupid ass out and how Naofumi is a good person. Malty's malicious intentions to the villagers of Riyute, and overtaxation plan. The fact that the miracle seed he released had dangerous potential (Although the stupid bitch ignored the writing…)
Malty having a slave seal that makes her speak the truth only and ADMITTED THE TRUTH OF HER CRIMES… But in the manga he was about to say "I still believe in you Myne." Until he said her official new name.
There is the factor where the "Iron" is still hot. Misato is striking Motoyasu early, of course it's tougher than Itsuki but it's better than doing it later. There's also the fact that those public 'illegal' recordings are ruining Malty's reputation way earlier than canon. Rumors and gossip is in almost every major town or village in Melomarc.
For people who say Motoyasu is OOC, I did my best but frankly, if Motoyasu really was just a hopeless moron then why THE HELL did the Spear include MORON-yasu in its STUPID LIST?! WHY the FUCK would it think its a good idea to have this idiot in 3rd place? WTF is 4 and 5 then?! I'm scared to meet those candidates.
The Legendary weapons are terrible at making Hero Candidate lists! I know a Hero they choose will always have a flaw alongside their good traits and Shield for some reason gets 1st but come on! A brat with a large sensitive pretentious ego and a naive gullible coward, both who will ignore everything that they dislike no matter how right the critic is? The Bow and Spear thought it was a good idea to have them in their top 10?!
Please do explain in detail, I read the light novel on Volume 16, but I feel like it didn't explain the selection process well enough.
So ya, I might have changed Motoyasu a bit because I believe there is something deep inside that makes the others a good hero with the right circumstances. Like Motoyasu, attempting to comfort Rino, instead of shoving her to someone else. We don't see good heroic moments like that because SOME PEOPLE don't want them to be good heroes… (Malty, Balmus, and uhhh… Pretty much 95% of any major power in Rotsh at the moment who don't give a fuck.)
About the Infinite Essential Ammo and the Magic Affinities, ok ya it was a sudden addition to the story, but I thought it could work, The Legendary Gun didn't escape its home world's destruction unscathed. Forrest fixed it but it's not completely whole yet, it needs help from other weapons and heroes to fix it. Especially Infinite Essential Ammo.
Some could argue, the Legendary Bow had the ability so the Gun Bow Hybrid should fix that ammo problem but… in terms of writing that would be kind of boring… I don't want him to unlock it yet, I want Misato to EARN it. It would be far more impressive for Misato to fight with limited ammo at first and eventually get infinite ammo.
((1/31 Update: Okay, so after some thinking and some of my critics, accuracy is somewhat redundant for Misato, I changed the Gun-Bow Hybrid and now it provides damage stats and a new skill that helps Misato greatly and it makes sense. Due to Itsuki's esper power helping Misato.))
Plus getting the Infinite Ammo later also symbolizes how far he has come and what he has accomplished. It's poetic (I think).
Also the stakes on Misato's fighting capability this early would not be much of an issue if he could just shoot all willy nilly instead of being careful or calculative about how much ammo he uses. Plus if he unlocked that and get Naofumi's attack spell buff, it would be like:
Misato: "Haha Minigun go BRRRRRRRR!"
And then Misato either kills the enemy quickly or slowly and painfully pelts his enemies with an endless rain of bullets that hurt a lot. Like ya, against high leveled and armored enemies, minigun won't do much damage but damn will they FEEL it. Only Season 2 and above major enemies would be able to handle it.
Also, Misato can copy bows. I heard that in canon Itsuki is capable of copying guns since they function similar to a bow and that logic works apparently, so I thought Misato should be able to do the same especially when they unlock the hybrid.
Anyway, thank you so much for your patience, ideas and compliments. I hope you liked the chapter.
If you decide to review, I suggest leaving 2 reviews to leave some of your thoughts sort of organized.
1 review is about an idea you have or arguing why I am wrong on some points I have made here in the notes.
The other review is your overall thoughts of this chapter, things you liked and disliked, etc.
As for the next chapter, it's going to take a while with my job and everything.
Btw, I imagine you all know what the next chapter will be called. Please do take a guess in the reviews.