Biggest thanks for Ace-Triad for fixing my SPAG problems, and Angel Wraith for beta-reading the chapter and providing feed backs.
As always, I will blabber some more in my end note.
Cross posted on AO3, for anyone who prefer that site.
The bathroom of the Menagerie Hotel isn't as large as the one from the palace. Which is to say, it's not the same size as a small house itself. And it doesn't have a squad of servants ready to attend to Malty's every need. But it had everything it needed to have a relaxing and warm soak. It feels like heaven after her adventure with the Shield Hero, especially after an intense battle with a corrupted outer goddess.
"It's nice to know the Shield Hero is trying his best to take care of you. I'm sure he could have done more... but at least he's trying." Cousin Emily brushes at Malty's hair. Her movement stops for a brief moment, and the princess turned slave knows that her Faubley cousin is staring at her burnt scar. She lets out a brief fake cough, which seems to shake Emily out of her thoughts as her hands continue her movement. "But the Three Heroes' Church, and that Chief God damned Fuckboy! Forget about sending Corvo to them. I'll send them personally to the deepest hell of Baator myself!"
"Please don't, cousin. I know you care about me, but impulsive and sentimental decisions were what led to my father's fall from grace. You need to control yourself." This time, Malty turns around to look at Emily in her eyes and grabs her by the wrist. "All those responsible in the Three Heroes' Church, and especially Fuckboy himself got what they deserved from my mother. You inflicting further punishment on them by your own hand would only cause a political incident that'll put everyone in a worse spot."
"What about that worm Cromwell? From what I heard, he gets to enjoy all the perks of being the personal lackey of the High Queen of Glorious Melromarc." Cousin Emily almost spits the word out of her mouth. Having his name mentioned does make Malty feel the heat of anger rising inside of her. Especially after she learnt that this fucker was the one behind the church's rebellion, not Pope Balmus. He might not have enjoyed an official rise in ranks like Logarius, but he still controlled enough power to rival, if not top the recently ascended Arch Vicar thanks to him selling out his dubious loyalty to Mother. But she understands why Mother would want a dog like Cromwell. As someone who plays the role of a fair and good queen, she can't be seen as someone who does morally dubious or politically questionable acts. These abhorrent, yet necessary actions can be delegated to an already notorious figure like Cromwell.
So long as mother can still keep overall control of the increasingly tumultuous situation, of course. As soon as he thinks he has the upper hand, scum like Cromwell will be the first to betray Mother and stab her in the back. That's already proven after Pope Balmus was put into a healing coma by Lautrec's goddess. Malty could only hope that her mother is paranoid enough to get rid of Cromwell before that inevitable point comes. Because with Mother losing so much of her previous prestige, to the point even Archduke Wales (who is usually a loyalist to the crown) openly defies, and challenges her rule. A political storm, if not a flat out civil war, is right around the horizon.
Chapter 18: The Gathering of Heroes
"Okay. I'll control myself and not make your life anymore miserable, Cousin Mal." Thankfully, Cousin Emily managed to come to her senses after taking a few deep breaths. That's at least one major headache Malty doesn't have to worry about. But her relief is short-lived when Cousin Emily screams at the door. "Corvo! I need you to stay beside Cousin Malty and make sure she doesn't get hurt by any more of these bottom feeding balloons!"
"My first priority is to keep you safe, Lady Emily." Corvo's voice comes from outside the bathroom, yet he almost sounds like he is standing next to the two of them. As a man, he chooses to attend and protect them outside the door while Malty and Emily are having their baths together. And it seems like he's a dutiful man who knows what's best for his charge, rather than blindly follow their directions.
"What about agents of The Unspeakables? You have friends in them, don't you?" Emily's suggestion almost makes Malty jump on her feet. They already had an assassination attempt by the Faubley Unspeakables while they were trying to cross Griffin's Spine to escape the clutches of the Three Heroes' Church. And what's more, they still didn't know who gave the order for that treacherous Zeke to kill the Shield Hero. Getting 'protection' from them is the equivalent of asking dragons, or griffins to look after filorial eggs, not to mention the other problem.
"Cousin Emily, I know you are trying to help. But please don't suggest something like this ever again." Malty quickly turns around and grabs Emily by her shoulder. Still not satisfied, she even shakes her cousin to make sure Emily truly listens to what she says. "Think about how my mother would think if I had Faubley Unspeakables trailing behind me, 'protecting' my safety. She might execute me on the charge of treason."
Malty isn't kidding about severe punishment from her mother. On the surface, Melromarc and Faubley are allies on account of them being two of the largest human dominant nations in the world. And they have Siltvelt as a common enemy. But the reason for their cooperation is also the same reason for their conflict: whenever an ambitious ruler comes into power in either Melromarc (and the Kingdom of Gallia before the Melromarc Dynasty) or Faubley, said ruler would want to overpower their biggest 'ally' to become the unchallenged leader of human nations. That's no doubt one of the main reasons why King Egbert sold mother out and let her face the wrath of Siltvelt alone for almost five years during The Great War. Openly inviting the secret agents of Faubley to act as her escort would give Mother the exact excuse she needed to get rid of Malty permanently.
"You are right. I'm sorry, Cousin Mal. I got too anxious and forgot who we are dealing with here." Duchess Emily shakes her head, and she turns around to pick up a bathing robe off the hanger and throws it over Malty's shoulders. "What was I thinking!? Aunt Mirellia really would have you killed after what she did to you and Uncle Aultcray. I know she's cold-hearted after she betrothed you to Uncle Egbert... but I lost any respect I left for her after she had you and Uncle Aultcray take her fall for her after that mess with the Three Heroes' Church."
"I'm sure Mother doesn't take pleasure in what she does to my Father and I. Or to Melty." Malty isn't nearly as confident in the belief of her mother as her words to her cousin. Sure, Mother says she felt bad about her actions during her little private confession with Malty. But that's little comfort to her when mother chooses to sell out her father and herself for the dubious reason of 'the good of the nation and the people'. A so-called admission of guilt is nothing more than an arrogant brag if the confessor isn't willing to change their errors.
"I hear you... cousin." Emily didn't say anymore as she rested her arm across Malty's shoulder as she guided the princess turned slave out of her bathroom and into her bedroom. Malty privately wonders who had it worse between herself and Cousin Emily. Having a mother in power, who is willing to sell you out for the 'greater good' of the nation, or losing a mother in a war that supposedly loved you. Corvo stayed out of sight as the pair of cousins quietly sat on the queen-sized bed in Malty's hotel room. After a while, her cousin finally breaks the silence between them. "Hey. At least I'll be a friendly face at tomorrow's Hero Conference. I'll make sure Queen Mirellia, or King Egbert doesn't act too rowdy with you."
"Thank you, cousin." Malty gives her cousin a genuine smile. It's good to know that she has a family she could count on even in the nation of Faubley. Before she has a chance to turn in for the night, or even saying anything to Emily, she begins to hear somewhat faint music somewhere outside her room. The music nodes sound exotic, and different from instruments from Medea. As if they come from another world... the world of the heroes, perhaps? Both Malty and Emily stand up once again as they walk out of the door and onto the balcony to look down.
Underneath them on the courtyard of Menagerie Hotel, both the Shield Hero and the Spear Hero are standing under moonlight. Motoyasu is holding the shaft of his [Smartphone Spear] where the melody comes from. Noticing Malty, he first gives Malty a wave, and then he turns to point his finger furiously at Naofumi, finally ending with turning his free hand into a thumb up of encouragement to the Shield Hero. That's when the Shield Hero opens his mouth and begins to sing, and Malty knows he's singing to her.
Daryl Hall and John Oates - Kiss On My List
My friends wonder why I call you all the time, what can I say?
I don't feel the need to give such secrets away
You think maybe I need help, though I know I'm right, alright
I'm just better off not listening to friends' advice
When they insist on knowing my bliss
I tell them this
When they wanna know what the reason is
I only smile when I lie, then I tell them why
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss is on my list of the best things in life
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss I can't resist
Because your kiss is what I miss when I turn out the light
I go crazy wonderin' what there is to really see
Did the night just take up your time 'cause it means more to me
Sometimes I forget what I'm doing, I don't forget what I want, what I want
Regret what I've done, regret you? I couldn't go on
But if you insist on knowing my bliss
I'll tell you this
If you want to know what the reason is
I only smile when I lie, then I'll tell you why
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss is on my list of the best things in life
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss I can't resist
Because your kiss is what I miss when I turn out the light
I really miss you, babe
Ahh
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss is on my list of the best things in life
Oh, babe, because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss I can't resist
Because your kiss is what I miss when I turn out the light
Because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss I can't resist
Because your kiss is on my list of the best things in life
Oh-ooh, because your kiss, your kiss is on my list
Because your kiss, your kiss I can't resist
With the way that the Shield Hero sometimes awkwardly goes off notes, Malty would haste a guess that he's not used to singing, in public or in private. And it made the fact that he's publically serenading her right in front of Cal Mira Island's largest hotel more sweet. Still! It's embarrassing, especially with Cousin Emily standing besides her. Her cousin seems to realize Malty's shame, as Emily covers her lower face with one hand, while gently patting Malty's shoulder with her friend's hand. "Well, Cousin Mal. At least Lord Shield Hero does love you."
The rest of the night passed without much fanfare. By the time Malty woke up on her own bed, Duchess Emily had already left. Knowing the rulers, and most influential overlords would attend the Hero Conference, Malty knows that she's going into a conflict that's as severe as the wave fight against an invading outer goddess. She has a quick wash to refresh herself, and throws a new set of clothes on before leaving her room.
Outside, Naofumi and Raphtalia are already waiting for her. The other three heroes and their own supporters stand a little distance away from Naofumi. Yatsuhashi, and Prince Kael'thas are standing with them to give space for the three of them to talk. It seems like Naofumi's sworn shield and the Phoenix Prince are both confident that assassins won't be allowed into the Menagerie Hotel. At least not when a previous assassination attempt already happened one night ago. Remembering Naofumi's impulsive temper, Malty quickly grabs his hand and advises him with a hushed whisper. "The Hero Conference will not be easy, nor will it be held in good faith, Master Naofumi. The world of Medea has gone through enough Waves of Catastrophe for those standing at the top of the ladder to see such a disaster as a predestined nuisance. Their priority will be on how to maximize the gain of their prestige, and power. And the four Cardinal Heroes such as you and your friends will be the spoil they fight over. Don't let their callousness get to you. Do your best to ignore their taunts, remain level headed, and don't leave any weaknesses for them to exploit. If you want to say anything, tell me first. I will speak for you."
"I'm not sure I'll be able to control myself, but I'll do my best." Naofumi stays silent as he sucks in a few deep breaths. He finally replies when Raphtalia turns her head around to look at him. Not exactly the answer Malty hoped for, but she doesn't expect someone like Naofumi to simply stay silent and take in these social elites' belligerent action like he is some stone sculpture of a god. She takes a step forward, gives Naofumi another pat on his shoulder. Knowing there's nothing else to say, they join the rest of their group as they leave the hallway together and into the staircases.
In front of them stand two women, one tall and one slightly short. The tall woman happens to be the blue haired, muscle bound security guard who took away Sadina after her assassination attempt on the Shield Hero. Raphtalia's gaze freezes on her for a brief second before she quickly ducks behind Naofumi. The shorter one looks slightly younger, around the same age Raphtalia's older body shows, more of a teenage girl than an adult woman. She has the same dark hair, and feline ear as the manager, and uncrowned lord of Cal Mira. A daughter, or one of his clan's girls? Malty's unvoiced question is quickly answered by the girl herself. "Revered heroes. My father Ghira Belladonna, Manager of the Menagerie Hotel, has dispatched me to guide all of you to the Four Corners' Room where the Hero Conference is being held."
Malty gives a quick look back to the rest of her group. She half expected Iris to step forward and answer Lady Belladonna back. Among their group, Prince Kael'thas hold the highest rank being a prince of a prominent noble family of the Vermilion Sparrow Great Clan. But he also represents Siltvelt when the four Cardinal Heroes were all summoned by Melromarc, and he is officially a slave of the Shield Hero. Iris, being the heiress of House Ameli,a would have been the next highest ranking member among them. But she seems content to remain silent with the Motoyasu, and his two fellow weapon wielding heroes standing quietly and contently behind the Shield Hero. Malty quickly turns her head forward again and speaks for Naofumi like she promised. "Master Shield Hero and his fellow Cardinal Heroes all thank you and your Father for your hospitality, Lady Belladonna. Please, lead on."
The 'princess' of Cal Mira bows her head down to them courteously with her escort. They then turn around, and begin to lead the heroes' group down stairs. After they reach the ground floor, Lady Belladonna turns around a corner which has a pair of guards standing in front of. They step aside, allowing Malty and everyone else into this guarded wing of Menagerie Hotel. The princess turned slave sees movement from the corner of her eyes, and notices Kael'thas stepping up right besides Naofumi, and he's whispering to him like she did earlier. "This wing is where Prince Cleose, Prince Mohammed and myself was led into when we activated the magic protection of Cal Mira Island, my king."
The Shield Hero didn't say anything back to the Phoenix Prince, and Kael'thas doesn't look disappointed at his lack of response. Not too long after, Lady Belladonna arrives in front of a thick metal door. Its dark, almost rustic look makes Malty realize that they are standing in front of a pair of solid titanite that would be heavy enough to smash all of them into a sheet of parchment with its weight alone. Lady Belladonna takes out a gem encrusted key and inserts it into the door, not too long after it opens up on its own. The way the gems on the key glows makes Malty realize it's some kind of magic empowered gadget that's powering this pair of barriers into whatever forbidden territory further ahead.
Inside the door is a single dark room, with a staircase leading further down into the underground. The room itself isn't made entirely out of titanite like the doors, but it's still made of thick stone, and Malty is ready to bet whatever wealth she has left that the room is also somehow magically enchanted to make it nearly impossible to breach into. The security of this entrance into this 'Four Corners' Room' reminded her of the rumor of the famed magical vault of Faubley's Hero Academy. She stops her mind from wandering when someone pushes her from behind, and Malty quickly realizes that Lady Belladonna and her Amazon escorts have already begun to descend further down the stairs.
The heroes' group follows their guide into the underground level. All around them, magically powered torches cast their blue light on large slabs of enchanted stones. It reminded Malty of House Seaetto's underground catacomb. It made her wonder what happened to that damn orb Naofumi gave to Jaune at the end of their expedition. Does mother have it after she gutted most of the Three Heroes' Church for herself? Or did Cromwell manage to hide it away from her? The princess turned slave isn't eager to ask her mother for its whereabouts. Between the Three Heroes' Church and her mother, she's not eager to help either faction. Plus that orb is likely some cursed object considering what happened to Eclair's father... and it made her lose her mind enough to kill Uncle Aldrecht by accident.
They enter the large conference room while Malty is still wasting time thinking over pointless trivia. The former princess quickly put a stop to her own wandering mind as she looked around the room. Melromarc, Faubley, Siltvelt and Shiltfreeden's representatives have all been gathered, there's even a fifth group that's wearing different Zeltoble free city emblems. In short, it's clear that there's not enough heroes to be evenly distributed among the waiting nations. As Lady Belladonna leads the heroes to sit at one corner of the tables, Malty begins to quietly observe the attendants. Needless to say, mother and Melty are sitting together representing Glorious Melromarc, with mother's loyal knights... and Cromwell standing behind them.
The four heroes sit down on the seats prepared for them. Lady Belladonna quietly leaves the room alongside her amazonian escort behind the heroes. Prince Kael'thas didn't join the rest of the Siltvelt representatives. He takes one step forward, and stands behind Naofumi on his left side, making his allegiance clear to his fellow Siltvelt lords. Malty quickly takes up his right side. She bows her head slightly lower, so she can talk with Naofumi with a quieter voice. "You already know my mother, and my younger sister Princess Melty, Master Naofumi. I shall introduce the rest of these leaders to you."
Naofumi didn't say anything back to her. He might have taken Malty's whole 'don't speak and let me speak for you' advice a step too far. But he did give her a nod to let her continue. Malty looks up, and immediately sees her cousin Emily, the Duchess of Dunwall giving her a faint nod from the Faubley delegation. In this kind of public area, Emily didn't dare to throw away decorum and act too close with Malty. But the Duchess wasn't joking when she said that she would be one of the friendly faces Malty would see at the Hero Conference. "Master Naofumi. Sitting across from us is the delegation of Noble Faubley. His majesty, King Egbert. His regent Lord Dumbledore, and his adopted son Prince Tact. The woman beside them is the Duchess of Dunwall, Emily Kaldwin Faubley, daughter of King Egbert's adopted sister, the late Jasmine Faubley of Dunwall, and second in line to the Faubley throne."
The Shield Hero nods his head alone without any expression on his face, not showing much to Malty but thankfully not giving any of his potential enemies to use against him either. But after a brief moment, he turns to look at her. "Adopted sister, you say? Wasn't your father his adopted brother before he married your mother? Are they..."
"Yes. She was my father's sister by blood. They were distant relatives of the Faubley royal family. The old Faubley King before King Egbert adopted them both after the passing of their parents. If Father did not come to Melromarc, he would have been the Duke of Tristan." Malty tries to keep her face as neutral as possible while she explains her father's relationship with his Faubley siblings. "King Egbert hated my father from the start, but he was at least cordial towards my aunt Jasmine till she was taken by Paris, the head of White Tiger Great Clan, at a peace conference during The Great War."
While she is explaining the sordid past of her distant Faubley family to Naofumi, Malty is also peering at Kael'thas' reaction from the corner of her eyes. She notices how the Phoenix Prince's corner of eyes and lips both begin to twitch at the mention of Paris. The former first princess of Melromarc knows that Vermillion Sparrow Great Clan's biggest enemy is the Azure Dragon, but they also have some conflict with the other two holy beast great clans as well. And it appears the Phoenix Prince doesn't think too highly of the white tiger whose action single handedly caused the eventual downfall of the Siltvelt Empire. When she has more time, she really needs to figure out what's the main reason for Kael'thas' distaste towards the late Lord Paris. It would help her understand more of the character, and principle of the Phoenix Prince.
"Why hasn't Lung arrived yet? She's making everyone wait for her." An inpatient sounding voice comes from Siltvelt's delegation. The white tiger hero of Star Gauntlet is impatiently clicking his finger on the stone table. He doesn't come off as an impatient type to Malty during the fight in the Fourth Wave. But perhaps his distaste comes more from Lung not taking this conference seriously. He turns around and looks at the dark haired and skinned fox standing behind him. "Go find out what's keeping Lung from showing up, Ink."
"Lord Dionysius the Gauntlet Hero is the younger brother of the late head of White Tiger Great Clan, my king." As Dio's female attendant leaves the room, Kael'thas uses the chance to introduce his own nation to Naofumi. Malty could have interrupted him and give her own interpretation, but she would rather wait till the representatives of Siltvelt making their own mistake. Right now, the only thing stopping her from being given to her uncle is Naofumi's trust. She can't afford to act out and make herself look bad in front of the Shield Hero.
"Not the current head of this White Tiger Great Clan?" Once again, Naofumi pauses for a few moments before looking up at Kael'thas. Malty nods her head along the Shield Hero's words. Once again, he shows a good affinity to learn information even in fields he's not experienced in, such as politics. Naofumi's question beckons Kael'thas to give a more detailed explanation on the internal politics of one of the most powerful great clans.
"The current head belongs to Lord Paris' son, Lord Tenzen. Lord Paris and Lord Dionysius's mother Lady Hushie is acting as their regent right now." Kael'thas' reply is short, yet interesting to Malty. As a hero, Dio should have been the one to inherit Paris' position as the clan head, not his son Tenzen. For this to happen, it implies either Dio willingly stepped down, or he's forced to step aside from his nephew for some reason. The White Tiger Great Clan having a regent when both Dio and Tenzen have come of age is even more interesting... It seems like this Lady Hushie is acting similarly to Malty's own mother. Something she could further discuss with Naofumi in private away from Kael'thas... depends on what happens at this current conference.
Kael'thas seems to be unaware of the Malty's thought as he continues to explain the power structure of Siltvelt. "...The Four Saints' Beasts Great Clans form the upper council, while the rest of the fifty-two great clans, fifty-three if we count the remnant of Kyutenrou, form a lower council. Aside from the seat of our king itself, Siltvelt is divided into eight regions, each one being commanded by a 'Pillar of the Nation' grand general. Besides the pillars, there are the twelve Diva Generals who oversees the military fair of Venerated Siltvelt."
"Are you one of them?" Naofumi slightly raises his eyebrow as he stares at Kael'thas. Once again, the Shield Hero instantly captured the most important part of Kael'thas' explanation. Knowing Kael'thas' current position in terms of overall power structure within Siltvelt would give the Shield Hero both a better grasp of his supposed vassals, and also an estimation of Kael'thas' personal ambition. Or maybe Malty is simply projecting her own thoughts onto Naofumi, and he's merely curious.
"I am still too young to be thinking of the position of a Diva General, or one of the eight Pillars, my king. I am merely fortunate enough to be the Lord of my own hall within the Vermilion Sparrow Clan." Kael'thas' words are humble, yet Malty can hear his underlined pride. Of the Four Saint Beast families, the White Tiger is the only one that has a life span similar to a normal human due to their focus on power. The Azure Dragon, Vermilion Sparrow and Ebony Turtle all have much greater longevity to their lives, and in particular both Azure Dragon and Vermilion Sparrow have much longer time when they stay in their prime, Lung was a good example of someone who looks only barely over twenty years old, yet is actually over sixty (to be fair, Lung is young for an Azure Dragon, who can easily live to one thousand years old). So Kael'thas' youthful look isn't a great indication of his actual age. Yet still, there's no doubt other phoenix beastman who are much older than him, yet he was the one that was picked as the prince of their hall.
"That's enough about yourself. Focus on the others from Siltvelt." Naofumi raises his hand up, seemingly realizing Kael'thas' attempt at an underhanded brag of his own achievement. "I know who Dio is. What about the lion besides him?"
Kael'thas narrows his eyes, Malty could see the scoff he's swallowing back down before opening his mouth for the introduction. "Jardis Priderock. Pillar of the West, Prideland. Head of the Priderock Great Clan. Although he acts as the steward of Siltvelt throne most of the time, and leaves ruling Prideland to the 12th Diva General, Grommash Hellscream."
"Not a fan of his works?"
Kael'thas turns his face and stares at Malty for a brief second before he continues. "His ascension to both the Head of Priderock Great Clan, and the Pillar of West were questionable. Near the end of the Great War, he challenged the previous clan head, Mufasa to a 'Right of Taking' duel to the death for both titles and slew Mufasa in single combat. But it's well known that Mufasa was already badly wounded fighting the Faubley army at the time. So there are some questions on if his ascension was legitimate or not. But Mufasa's younger brother, Lord Taka didn't challenge him back for the position of his late elder brother. So most people let him be. And he did a fine enough job acting as the steward of the throne to not get thrown out."
It's clear that Kael'thas doesn't like this Jardis Priderock. His criticism towards the lion lord is scathing, while his explanation on how the crafty lion managed to hold onto his titles fall under the 'backhanded compliment' territory. Once again, Malty wonders if Kael'thas' distaste towards this steward of the throne is due to more private grudge.
The Shield Hero doesn't notice, or perhaps isn't interested in the polite spat Malty exchanged with Kael'thas. He nudges his chin towards the last two groups who neither Malty, nor Kael'thas introduced to him yet. "Alright, what about the other two groups? I'm guessing one of them is Shiltfreeden? Why did their secret agents work under Tact, the hero, and Prince of Faubley?"
"The Shiltfreeden delegation is the one where they have the winged shield emblem, Master Naofumi." Malty stops trading barbs, or thinking about Kael'thas as she nudges her own chin at the group she's talking about. Their group is much smaller compared to the other delegations with a middle aged woman with a long horse-like face sitting at the middle, flanked by an old man with graying hair and beard, and a middle aged man. A single young adult woman in military uniform stands behind them as their escort. Even Zeltoble, which is more of a mutual defense pact of the many free cities than a proper nation, has more people among their group. Or perhaps that's why Zeltoble had more representatives. At least each of the three major free cities (Zeltoble, Restov and Dalaran) all wanted their own representations. "I don't know the Shiltfreeden representatives as much as some of the others. But if I hazard a guess, the one sitting in the middle is their president Katherine Kennedy-"
"President? Not a queen?" Naofumi turns his entire face towards Malty, interrupting her explanation this way. "I thought this world is entirely built on aristocracy and monarchy? Does this mean Shiltfreeden vote for, and elect their own leader periodically?"
"Yes, Master Naofumi. It's a custom passed down from the progenitor that created the nation we know as Shiltfreeden. When a group of oppressed demi-human made their exodus away from Venerated Siltvelt to find a new home for themselves. I'm sure Prince Kael'thas could explain the history in better detail to you after the Hero Conference. If you are interested." The Phoenix Prince in question throws a dirty look at Malty from the corner of his eyes. Needless to say, he isn't happy to explain what's considered one of the biggest scandals of his nation. "The short version is that the leader of their group refused to become the king of the new nation they built. Because he believed people who seeked freedom should be free to choose their own leaders. Supposedly how things were done before the time of heroes. And this custom eventually developed much later after his passing, to the point that the people of Shiltfreeden hold a vote every few years to elect their leader, as you say."
"A backwards way for uncivilized savages to govern themselves. That's why Shiltfreeden spent most of the ages being a glorified vassal to truly strong nations such as venerated Siltvelt... or Faubley and Melromarc." Kael'thas mutters under his breath. Malty has a feeling that the Phoenix Prince is complaining more to himself than trying to relay this information to Naofumi. Still, the Shield Hero gives a blank stare to Prince Kael'thas, but he didn't say anything to chastise the Phoenix Prince as per usual. It's a good thing that he's taken Malty's warning to heart.
"I don't know the two military men sitting besides President Katherine. But judging from their uniform and how they were able to attend this meeting, my guess would be they are the supreme commander of Siltvelt's navy, and ground force respectively: Admiral Hackett, and General Anderson." Seeing that the Shield Hero has returned to his silence, Malty begins to introduce the two members sitting by Shiltfreeden's president. She casts a look at the redhead, and the somewhat young warrior looks back at her, seemingly noticing that she's been watched.
The other redhead has a pair of goat horns on her head, and she wears a suit of dark colored, form fitting armor instead of the uniform like her superiors. She gives Malty a smile from the corner of her mouth. The former princess wouldn't call it an entirely rude, or aggressive gesture. But the way how this Shiltfreeden warrior immediately noticed Malty's gaze makes her think it's meant as a warning more than a friendly acknowledgement. Regardless, she didn't pay it much mind. Not like the woman can do much to the personal attendant of the Shield Hero. "I have no idea who the one standing behind them is."
"I know her well. Lieutenant Commander Briar Shepard, the Lion of Elysium. She became well known enough after she thwarted a slave raid to the port city of Elysium by rallying its citizens and militia to fight alongside her." Once again, Malty could hear Kael'thas' attempt at hiding his snort before his voice came out. It's clear that the Phoenix Prince once again, doesn't think as highly of this Commander Shepard as her reputation precedes her. And suddenly, Malty realized something. If Kael'thas doesn't consider this Shiltfreeden warrior officer worthy, why does he know her? Unless, the culprit behind the slave raid happens to be...
"Was it a raid conducted by Venerated Siltvelt? Like the periodical raid your great and powerful nation inflicted on Melromarc?" Malty didn't turn her face to look at Kael'thas, but she can still glimpse the way his body twitched, desperately trying to not show a reaction to her words but not quite managing it to the end. She was right, the raid on Elysium was done by someone from Siltvelt, and it gave Commander Shepard her rise to fame. That's what had Kael'thas acting so indignant on the whole affair.
Malty knows that she shouldn't keep antagonizing Prince Kael'thas. On a personal level, she had been metaphorically burnt off House Melromarc's family tree, and right now she's a slave owned by the Shield Hero. And as a slave who has no right, she has nothing protecting herself from people who might want to do her harm aside from Naofumi's trust. So making an enemy out of Kael'thas (who is also technically a slave, but he is still the head of the Phoenix Hall of the Vermillion Sparrow Great Clan of Siltvelt) on top of her mother, and when she is lusted after by both her distant uncle King Egbert of Faubley, and Prince Tact the Whip Hero, is a short sighted move at the best of time.
Her action is even more foolish if she considers herself as a member of the Shield Hero's political faction. With the fall of the Three Heroes' Church, the Shield Hero might no longer be the Cardinal Hero at the most disadvantage. But Naofumi still has not enough political capital, prestige, or a plot of land and people living on it to begin building a true base of power for himself. So he is still only a piece on the board for The Game, not a player himself. At such a precarious time, Malty promoting inner conflict within his own faction would eventually push the Shield Hero onto the chopping block like the Bitch Lord.
Yet... can she truly say Kael'thas is trustworthy even without her antagonizing him? Sure, he supposedly tried to save Naofumi while he was being pursued by the Three Heroes' Church. But from the Phoenix Prince's own admission and what information she managed to piece together from Iris' mouth, what Kael'thas actually did near the end of the Three Heroes' Church's rebellion was staging a failed siege at Fort Wolf's Mouth, and then rallied the scattered Prideland raiders and tried to take over Stormwind. It could have easily been an attempt at raiding Melromarc's wealth, disguised as a rescue attempt for the good of the Shield Hero. Yes, he willingly took the slave's seal from Naofumi to stay by his side.
But it also means he became a close follower of the current Shield Hero (the rightful 'king' of Siltvelt') before the other Siltvelt elites. He could be another fair weathered friend who only followed the Shield Hero for the political gain, or whatever the heroes' effect to supposedly unlock his full potential. If Raphtalia went from a normal raccoon girl to unlocking her family's most coveted after shapeshift ability, what potential gain Kael'thas would have gained as a phoenix beastman for the small price of being made the Shield Hero's servant? Because Naofumi would have never truly treated him as a slave, and worked him to death to begin with. Her provocation at Kael'thas could be used to gauge his trustworthiness, so long as she does not overdo it.
Prince Kael'thas must be annoyed, if not enraged by Malty's continued taunts. But he didn't bother to show his distaste towards her, instead he focuses his attention on the Shield Hero's accusatory stare. "I have personally never agreed with the slavery policy of my nation, my king. Not after seeing how some of my opponents on the battlefield who are worthy of respect are being treated as spoils of war, objects by my fellow Siltvelt elites. But it's also a shame of mine that I have not done more to hold back such backwards behavior. I heard you are very much against the use of slavery, my king. Rest assured, I will be your ally in such a future endeavor."
"I will take it under advisement." The Shield Hero gives a nod back to the Phoenix Prince, but from how he's no longer looking at Kael'thas, he didn't put much focus on such a gesture. Naofumi has instead focused his gaze on the last group which hasn't been introduced to him yet, the delegation of Zeltoble. "Maybe you can tell me about this last group-"
Before either Malty or Kael'thas has time to inform the Shield Hero what they know of the free city alliance, the dark skinned fox woman dispatched away by Dio has returned. A dragon lady, and her small group of retainers follows after the fox woman. But instead of Lung the Claw Hero, it was that blonde-haired, young looking woman dressed in red commanding the coalition troops against the spider goddess. Dio clearly noticed how his subordinate brought the wrong dragon lady, and his lower face split in a show of his barely contained anger. "I dispatched you to get Lung, Ink. Why have you come, Lady Gremory? And where is your Head of the Clan?"
"Lady Lung is still exhausted after her fight against the invading Outer Goddess, Lord Dionysius. She has dispatched me to sit in her place, while she takes a rest with Lord Tenzen." The sound of stone cracking follows after Lady Gremory's reply. Malty feels her teeth arch as she sees the Gauntlet Hero tear off a good chunk of stone from the large, circular table in front of him. Knowing how this entire building is both a luxury lodging as well as a fortress enchanted to withstand a siege (or a wave attack, as last night proved), and how this Four Corners' Room is its heart, she has no need to doubt the stone table in front of her is as steadfast as Melromarc Castle's city wall.
"What do these two think the Hero Conference is! All available heroes should attend the meeting to discuss how to fight back the Wave of Catastrophe." Dio stands up from his seat, dust slowly drips from his gauntlet hand. He looks ready to leave the room and drag the Claw Hero into this room himself. But the lion sitting by his side reaches his hand up to his shoulder.
"There's no point delaying the important discussion for Lady Lung, when she has no intention to treat it seriously. If she doesn't want her voice heard, she'll simply have to accept whatever conclusion we make." The steward of Siltvelt Throne's answer makes Malty slightly raise her eyebrow. A Hero Conference is essentially an event that lets the most powerful nations decide how to divide the most important spoil of a Wave of Catastrophe: the right to control Cardinal Heroes. And the presence of vassal heroes would be a good way to support their host nation in fighting over a hero. Yet Siltvelt is willingly kneecapping itself by not having one of their powerful veteran heroes attend? Were they really this confident in their stance, or is the infamous infight between the great clans already escalated to the point of them not willing to present an united front? Regardless, it's a shortsighted action for the good of Siltvelt as a nation, but then again... they have always been more of coalition of different tribes and smaller kingdoms than a unified nation without their hero king.
"We'll fill you in with the Zeltoble leaders later, Master Naofumi. We don't want to miss anything they say in the conference. It's going to determine the fate of you and your friends." Malty gives a quick, apologetic explanation to the Shield Hero. He doesn't look discontent with this arrangement. To the former princess' surprise, Lord Dumbledore, the regent of Faubley, stands up from his seat as Dio sits down. She obviously hasn't attended any other Hero Conference on account of the last one happening sixty years ago. But shouldn't the leader of Cal Mira island act as the host, even without Q'ten Lo, the Judges of Heroes?
"Very well. With the Siltvelt representative's willingness to-" The headmaster of Faubley Hero academy, and the regent of Noble Faubley's words are suddenly interrupted by a commotion outside the door to their conference room. They could hear the sound of banging, and angry shouting outside as Lady Belladonna runs inside.
"The Hammer Hero, Maximilien Washington and representatives from his Rebel Alliance are at the door. And they demand to attend the Hero Conference!" Lady Belladonna's reply worked like pouring hot oil into boiling water on the Faubley delegation. Specifically, on Prince Tact and his servants. But Malty also noticed Naofumi's body seems to tense up when the name of the Hammer Hero is announced.
"Master Naofumi? Are you okay?" Malty leans closer and whispers to him with a low enough voice that only he hears her. He didn't say anything back to her, merely giving her an appeasing looking smile and shaking his head. She isn't sure what he meant to say with it, but he's clearly not okay.
"This is an OUTRAGE! How dare these rebel scums show their faces in this meeting after what they did in Shiltfreeden! We should toss them out on the street, if not taking back the Star Hammer from that arrogant clown!" President Katherine's body nudges uncomfortably at Prince Tact's angry demand.
"SILENCE!" Dio slams his palm onto the table in front of him (which is now missing a huge chunk of it from his earlier outburst). The Whip Hero, who was roaring like a lion a moment ago, instantly sat back down as it turned into a pussy cat. "This is the Hero Conference. All heroes who wish to attend should have their voices heard. Even if they are mentally defective."
Malty's eyes instantly cast towards the Throwing Weapon Hero who had been shifting between jumping up and down to wave at Naofumi, to throwing her dirty looks. Oh, well. No need to be concerned about the small fry when someone like Lord Dionysius is in the room. She doesn't know if Dio is intentionally taking shots at the insane upstart, but he fits the description of a mentally defective hero most within their room.
"Fine, fine! Let the arrogant fool in! Don't say I didn't warn you when he starts to make a mess out of everything." Tact puts his hands behind the back of his head. He leans his chair back and rests both of his feet atop of the stone table in front of him. The Whip Hero is trying to play off his subservience to Lord Dio with aloofness. It might work for people who don't know the history between the two of them... which probably only consist of the newly summoned heroes in this room and whoever had a humble birth therefore do not have their own way of hearing major events happening in the world. Malty happens to one of those who know better.
Malty turns her face around to look at the slowly reopened door. She doesn't know what she expected for a group that calls themselves the 'Rebel Alliance' as if the name itself is some kind of badge of honor. But she certainly didn't expect a group of young men and women dressed in casual clothes. The stern looking man with a shaved head, and strong chin walking at the front of their group is about the only one who seems like some hardened veteran who is currently fighting a civil war in Shiltfreeden. He stops his feet in front of the circular table as he looks at the redheaded warrior woman standing behind the Shiltfreeden representatives. After a brief staring contest between them, the stern man nods at her. "Briar."
"Ahab." The so-called 'Lion of Elysium nods back. Malty notices that he has a pair of slightly more prominent sheep horns on his head, just like the warrior woman from Shiltfreeden.
"Ahab Shepard, the so-called 'Butcher of Torfan'. He is the twin brother of Commander Briar Shepard. He got his name from taking the abandoned Fort Torfan from slavers, after throwing away the lives of most of his troops in the operation. But after the Hammer Hero ran away from Faubley's Hero academy and started his little 'Rebel Alliance', he defected from the Shiltfreeden army to join his rebellion." Kael'thas' voice is filled with even more disdain than when introducing Ahab's sister. And he didn't intentionally keep his voice down this time, almost like he's openly taunting the rebel. Malty didn't antagonize the Phoenix Prince this time, she isn't some loyal knight willing to die for her sworn liege, or nation. But she has no love for traitors.
Ahab clearly heard Kael'thas' provocation, as he turned his head around to glare at the Siltvelt prince without saying a word. The Phoenix Prince didn't say anything either, but he did lift his own chin and turn his nose up at the rebel commander. Neither of them bothered to hide their mutual animosity towards each other even if they didn't exchange a single word.
"Idiot.""Scum." And speaking of not bothering to hide their mutual animosity... a young man around Naofumi's age is glaring daggers at the Whip Hero. A purple crystal embedded hammer hanging by his waist. He isn't what Malty would consider to be hard on the eyes with his strong features, especially his strong chin. But he doesn't stand out in the room with his dirty blonde hair and blue eyes either. She wouldn't have considered this somewhat plain looking young man to be the Hammer Hero, and the one who started an entire civil war in Shiltfreeden either. The true renegade hero of their current generation: The Hammer Hero, Maximilien Washington.
End Note:
So... I'm not exactly subtle when it comes to character's name. And here we have allegorical character #3 (if you don't count Lung, who is meant to be an allegory on the kind of Chinese webnovel/TV series Mary Sue female lead characters) Hammer Hero Maximilian Washington. Who is meant to represent the kind of modern incarnate heroes who goes into a feudal/imperial isekai world and instantly try to establish a democratic system through overwhelming firepower. He's had more than one mention in [Ambition of the Red Princess], and now he makes his first in story appearance. Well... all he did was call Tact a scum in the story so far, next chapter we'll get to see him at his full glory.
And don't be surprised if later in my story I change the name of Shiltfreeden's president to Katheleen Kennedy... because yes. That's supposed to be who she is based of. Not the actual former US president (or Leon Kennedy from Resident Evil), but the one and only destroyer of Star Wars Empress Palpatine herself.
Also... Naofumi serenades Malty with Daryl Hall and John Oates's [Kiss On My List] with some encouragement from Motoyasu. Yeah... that will probably be as 'romantic' (at least intentionally) as I'll ever write. Because I'm aromantic in real life. Take that for what you will.