This is a Beast Tamer and Rising Of The Shield Hero Crossover Fanfiction Only.
Other franchises will be included.
As Naofumi processed the implications of those words, the pieces of the puzzle began to align in his mind. He recalled the temporary contracts he had established with the numerous wolves, realizing that these creatures were not selective in their predatory habits. They had been commanded to hunt, to chase down any potential prey in the area, and he had prompted them to gather as many animals as they could find. Unfortunately, this directive might have inadvertently included countless rabbits inhabiting the expansive plains, their home now threatened by his own calls for assistance.
Approaching one particularly trembling rabbit, Naofumi felt a mix of concern and determination. This small creature exhibited visible signs of fear as if it sensed the looming threat of violence or harm that accompanied Naofumi's presence. Despite having made a conscious choice to follow the advice and wishes of his companions, Raphtalia and Myne, he understood the weight of his actions. "I am truly sorry for frightening you," he began softly, kneeling down and reaching out to touch the rabbit gently on her head. "I never intended to put you in danger. My intention was to help create an understanding for those who struggle with the fear of causing harm to others. However, reflecting on my choices, I see that I may have been misguided."
He took a deep breath, acknowledging the gravity of forming temporary bonds with countless rabbits in the past, despite the reality that it should not serve as a justification for the turmoil they now faced. Naofumi's voice softened as he continued, "All I can do now is ask for your forgiveness." Closing his eyes, he braced himself for the worst, preparing for the possibility that the rabbit might react with hostility or an instinctive drive for vengeance, perhaps even biting him out of fear or outrage at his past decisions. Yet, to his surprise, there was a profound stillness in the air; the expected act of aggression did not come. Instead, he felt a sense of calm, as if the rabbit was cautiously absorbing his words and sensing the sincerity behind his intentions.
Myne inquired of Naofumi whether he had issued any specific instructions to the wolves accompanying them. It was a straightforward question, one that Naofumi found easily answerable. He met her gaze and confirmed, without hesitation, that indeed, he had provided instructions. He had directed the wolves to target only those creatures that exhibited aggression or posed a threat to the well-being of their environment. Naofumi realized that while he might not have vocalized these instructions clearly, an unspoken connection had been established through the link forged by their temporary contract. This link enabled the wolves to understand his intent and mission without the need for explicit verbal commands.
As the conversation progressed, Raphtalia chimed in with a question of her own, asking about who was currently tasked with gathering the necessary herbs and plants for Naofumi. He responded that it was a small army of a few hundred squirrels and rabbits at work. The sheer number of creatures assisting him brought a moment of clarity; he recalled that the rabbits, specifically the one that the girl beside him had affectionately referred to as family, might indeed be among those foraging for him. This revelation offered him a sense of reassurance, suggesting that those rabbits were, in a way, under his protection and could be considered safe from harm.
In the midst of these thoughts, Naofumi decided to summon Bowsette and Peach to join him. When they arrived at his location, he wasted no time in asking Bowsette to inquire about the name of the rabbit that the two girls were embracing. Despite the look of confusion that briefly crossed Bowsette's face, she promptly acted on his request. After a moment, she returned to him with the information that the rabbit was female and went by the name of Judy. This revelation struck Naofumi with a peculiar sense of fate; it felt as if some higher power was playing a whimsical joke on him. The initial creatures he had formed contracts with were named after Princess Peach, Judy, and King Bowser, and now, here was Judy standing before him. He found himself pondering what would follow next—perhaps a vixen named Nick and a tigress named Clawhauser, reminiscent of characters from an old story.
The situation felt almost surreal, reminiscent of the tales his uncles used to recount during his breaks between grueling training sessions. With a light-hearted determination, he addressed Judy directly. "Judy, would you like to form a contract with me? I must apologize, though; I can't make it a permanent arrangement until you grow strong enough to handle it. However, if you are willing to put in genuine effort, I promise to offer you one in the future. This is Peach beside me, and the one next to her is Bowsette; both have permanent contracts, and you can ask Bowsette anything you need to know about that."
Judy studied him intently, her expression revealing a complex mix of curiosity and a subtle undercurrent of uncertainty. It was as though a multitude of questions whirled around in her mind, forming a chaotic cloud of thoughts, yet she found herself grappling with the challenge of articulating them to the human figure standing before her. This moment of contemplation was pivotal, as the implications of their situation weighed heavily on her.
The current circumstances forced them to postpone their entrance into Lute, a delay that had significant ramifications for Judy's future. If she intended to secure a permanent contract, a crucial step in her progression, she needed to first establish a solid foundation through a normal contract. This foundational contract would allow her to accumulate the necessary experience and levels to bolster her strength, ensuring she could effectively handle the tremendous responsibility and potential repercussions associated with a permanent contract. Naofumi, aware of the delicate balance they needed to maintain, was acutely aware that any attempt to dissuade her from this path would likely meet with resistance, not just from Judy, but also from their companions, Raphtalia and Myne. Both of them had their own views on the matter and would undoubtedly object if they sensed any hesitation in Judy's resolve. Therefore, it was imperative for Judy to gain experience and grow stronger, preparing herself to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Amidst these considerations, Naofumi contemplated an alternative route to help Raphtalia overcome her fears—the fear of inflicting harm or engaging in combat. However, fate had other plans. Just as he was pondering this, a peculiar incident unfolded. A rabbit with striking jet black fur launched an aggressive attack on Judy with an unexpected ferocity. This sudden assault raised numerous questions; why would this particular rabbit choose to disrupt every battle they faced with other monsters, fixating its aggression solely on Judy? Strangely, it appeared that the creature had no interest in attacking either Peach or Bowswette, something that left Naofumi puzzled.
As Judy continued her journey of growth and development, a significant breakthrough unfolded that changed the dynamics of her interactions entirely. She unlocked the ability to communicate with Naofumi via a mental link, a connection that elevated their relationship to a new level. When Judy spoke to him, her voice took on a sultry quality that was strikingly reminiscent of the melodic tones his uncle had often described, akin to the enchanting lilt of a southern belle. This new mode of communication allowed Judy to articulate her thoughts and share her experiences in a direct manner that had previously been impossible.
In this moment of connection, Judy took the opportunity to explain the troubling situation that had arisen with an aggressive buck, which had developed an inappropriate fixation on her. She did not hold back in her candid assessment, referring to the buck as an idiot who had repeatedly attempted to woo her for mating. Despite his relentless advances, Judy made it clear that she had no interest in forming a bond with him. "Honestly," she remarked with a hint of frustration, "the guy is far too forceful and inconsiderate. No female wants someone like that to be the father of her children, least of all me. His singular desire seems to be to mate and claim me, yet he shows no concern whatsoever for my feelings." This forthright revelation opened a window into Judy's innermost thoughts and emotions, highlighting the seriousness of her predicament and the intricate nature of her desires in a world filled with challenges and threats.
As she witnessed the continuous chasing and aggressive behavior directed toward her, Judy experienced a profound realization. It became apparent that sometimes, they needed to fight not just for their own survival, but also for one another. The memories of her parents' tragic demise haunted her, serving as a stark reminder that allowing her fears to dominate could lead to similar losses. She understood that she could not bear the pain of losing someone precious to her again, nor endure the guilt of surviving while those she loved sacrificed themselves for her sake. With a surge of determination, she resolved to take action, propelled by a fierce desire to protect those she cared about.
In that critical moment, Judy sprang into action, standing resolutely between herself and the relentless black rabbit that had been tormenting her for the better part of three hours. With nothing but her fists as her weapons, Raphtalia joined the fray, channeling her protective instincts into a powerful display of strength and resolve. She struck the rabbit with such force that it immediately fled, fearful for its life. "And you leave my friends alone, you buck-toothed bastard, or I am punching your teeth in, got it?" she shouted, her fierce declaration echoing through the air. This outburst was not merely a battle cry; it was a testament to the lesson Naofumi had been imparting all along. Raphtalia's protective instincts had finally coalesced into action, revealing the depth of her commitment to those she loved and the lengths to which she would go to ensure their safety in a world rife with danger.
As Naofumi and his companions finally arrived in the town, they were struck by the stark reality of the local economy. The marketplace felt like a ghost town, with a chilling sense of stagnation permeating the atmosphere. Food supplies were being exported to other regions, leaving the local residents at the mercy of a dwindling economy. Only a handful of establishments aimed at travelers seemed to generate any business, while the majority of the townspeople struggled to make ends meet. Those who had once relied on mining for their livelihood now found themselves risking their lives by venturing into the wilderness to hunt dangerous monsters. The desperation of the situation hung heavily in the air, evident in the frail, malnourished figures of the townsfolk who walked the streets. Their clothing, tattered and stained, hinted that it hadn't seen a wash in months if not years.
The only traders who seemed to thrive in this grim environment were those dealing in pelts, capitalizing on the grim reality that hunting monsters and tanning their hides had become a rare opportunity for families to secure enough income for survival. It was a harsh trade-off, as risk often accompanied the means of providing food and sustenance. Naofumi observed the scene before him with a growing sense of foreboding. The stark parallels to the times before the demon king's defeat were undeniable; entire villages had been left hungry, and the ensuing malnutrition among the populace often led to outbreaks of disease, exacerbating the plight of the people beyond what might have been expected.
Upon approaching the local leather trader, the air of caution surrounding the man was palpable. He regarded them with a wary but curious expression. It was not rudeness that underpinned his demeanor, but rather the instinctual wariness that came from experience; armed and armored individuals typically fell into two categories in this town: mercenaries or bandits. Neither group was particularly welcome among the locals, given the strained conditions. "Excuse me, folks," the trader began, his tone cautiously friendly, "mind if I ask what your business is in our lovely little town of Lute?"
This simple inquiry made Naofumi realize that the trader was not a wandering merchant but rather a resident who conducted his trade within the confines of this struggling community. Naofumi exchanged a glance with the man, offering a reassuring smile. "Actually, we're here to clear out an abandoned mine that should be located in or near this town. We also happen to have a selection of pelts, ranging from wolves to rabbits. Would you be interested in taking a look to see what price you might be willing to offer? A friend of mine once told me I have a knack for tanning."
With that, Naofumi began to unwrap and display some of the expertly treated pelts he had prepared during their journey. The trader's eyes widened, and Naofumi could see him struggling to mask his astonishment at the quality before him. If he revealed just how impressive these pelts were, Naofumi understood that the trader would be less inclined to negotiate fairly, seeking instead to secure a better deal for himself. In this tense atmosphere, where both survival and opportunity teetered on a knife's edge, every interaction could be pivotal.
Naofumi directed his gaze toward the man standing before him, curiosity mixed with concern evident in his eyes. He inquired about the troubling state of affairs that seemed to envelop the town. It was difficult for him to believe that the situation could deteriorate so drastically due to the issues surrounding just one mine. There had to be more underpinning the town's hardship, more than met the eye. As he observed the faces of the townsfolk, it struck him that there was a weariness etched into their expressions, a clear indication that many had not been able to secure a livelihood for an extended period. The pervasive atmosphere spoke volumes about their struggles.
The man responded, his tone tinged with a mixture of sadness and bitterness. "You are very observant, and you would be correct in your assessment. During the last wave of calamity, we lost a significant number of families. The reality is stark: this town, as it currently stands, is hanging by a thread, practically anticipating that final, devastating blow. My father, the Mayor, understands this grim truth all too well. If we were to experience another wave akin to the previous one, I fear there would be little to no town left to speak of. Adding to our plight is the mass exodus of skilled workers; they have left in search of better employment opportunities elsewhere. I cannot fault them for prioritizing the well-being of their families, yet the departure of so many talented individuals has led to the stagnation of trade in this area. In response to this dire situation, I took it upon myself to establish this trade initiative, hoping to create a means for the people to earn some income. If I had not intervened, this place would have descended into the ranks of a ghost town, void of life and hope."
Listening intently, Naofumi absorbed the man's worries and frustrations. The truth was undeniable; the town required significant enhancements to its defenses. Given the events of the past, particularly the takeover of the mine by monstrous foes, it became painfully clear that the king showed little regard for the town's welfare. If another wave were to strike, it was highly likely that the king would prioritize other locations, dispatching knights to aid them while leaving Lute to fend for itself. The thought of the mine being lost forever and the ensuing impact on the local economy weighed heavily on Naofumi's mind. The negligence of those in power had placed not just the town, but everyone in it, in a precarious position.
Naofumi approached the trader with a clear intention. He had arrived in this town to assist Lute in a critical mission: to clear out the dangerous monsters infesting the mine nearby. His aim was not merely to rid the area of its threats; he wanted to restore the mine to operational conditions. The previous owner had abandoned the mine, leaving an opportunity for Naofumi and his companions to take over without interference. If they could successfully navigate the challenges that lay within, it would significantly benefit the town's economy by generating much-needed funds. By the time the next wave of trouble descended upon them, they hoped to have amassed sufficient resources to either reinforce or completely upgrade the town's defenses.
The trader, however, regarded Naofumi with evident skepticism. His expression was one of utter disbelief as if he expected miracles akin to flying pigs parading through the streets or vibrant rainbows cascading from their tails. His distrust was palpable; he seemed to believe that Naofumi's assurances were nothing more than fanciful promises. "Listen, kid," the trader began, his tone heavy with cynicism. "You're not the first to make grand claims about tackling that mine. We've witnessed it all. Adventurers have come and gone, and only a handful emerged alive from that death trap. There were also those so-called heroes who asked for upfront payments, promising to clear the mine only to disappear with our gold, leaving the monsters unchallenged. So forgive me if I don't take your word for it. I'll believe it when I see actual results, and not a moment sooner." His open expression of doubt, coupled with a hint of hostility, suggested just how dire their situation had become, attributing blame to those who had either failed in their missions or exploited the desperation of the townspeople.
Undeterred by the trader's harsh words, Naofumi maintained his composure and flashed a confident smile. "Why don't we make this interesting? Let's place a bet. I'll leave twenty of these pelts here with you. If my friends and I manage to clear out the mine within four days, you'll buy the pelts at double their market price. However, if we succeed but it takes us until the fifth day, you can keep the pelts at no charge. What do you say?" The trader scrutinized Naofumi and his companions, particularly the two girls flanking him, each cradling a pet that exuded an aura of wealth and privilege. It seemed implausible to him that this small group could accomplish what a dozen seasoned men had failed to do. Yet, he had nothing to lose; if they faltered and fled like the others, he would profit handsomely from the high-quality pelts.
"You certainly have some nerve, kid," the trader finally replied, a mix of amusement and disdain coloring his voice. "But why not? I'm bored and might as well entertain myself with your little wager. Just remember, you'll regret this. I am the best trader this town has ever seen." Naofumi took the trader's words in stride and made his way to the local inn, where he inquired about the cost of a room suitable for three individuals and several pets. The innkeeper gazed at him and replied that it would be one silver coin per day, or two coins per day with meals included. Naofumi, confident in the outcome of his venture, produced five gold coins and laid them on the counter. He informed the innkeeper that he was paying in advance, as he anticipated they would continue their operations and enjoy the spoils of their labor for the foreseeable future.
The inn, at first glance, might not present an appealing facade. Its exterior lacked the charm typically associated with welcoming lodgings, giving it a somewhat rundown appearance that could easily deter potential visitors. However, the moment one stepped inside, any feelings of doubt were quickly dispelled by the warm and inviting atmosphere. The culinary offerings were exceptional, showcasing a menu that featured hearty, delicious meals prepared with care. Each dish was crafted to satisfy and comfort, making it a perfect spot for those in need of a little pick-me-up or a nourishing meal after a long day.
The proprietor of the inn, a kind-hearted woman, had an innate ability to make every guest feel at home. Her friendly demeanor and genuine concern for the well-being of others shone brightly in her interactions. Regardless of whether patrons sought refuge for a brief respite or merely wished to enjoy a light snack, she ensured that everyone left with a smile. This warmth extended not only to the meals served but also to the accommodations. The rooms were spacious, designed to comfortably house two beds. However, a slight complication arose when three travelers found themselves in need of lodging.
Raphtalia, ever the voice of reason, suggested a solution: they could share the beds to accommodate their numbers. Myne was quick to assert her right to sleep alongside Naofumi, being his future wife and engaged to him. Her enthusiasm and assertiveness welcomed some playful banter. In contrast, Raphtalia felt a twinge of hesitation about her feelings. Although her childhood dreams included marrying the Shield Hero, she could not help but feel embarrassed at the thought of stating her desires out loud. Regardless of her personal wishes, Raphtalia prioritized Naofumi's happiness above all, willing to support whatever made him feel at ease.
When Naofumi entered the mine, it became immediately evident that the space was in disarray. Broken mining tools littered the ground, hinting at neglect and a lack of upkeep. The mining shafts were in dire need of repair, and the air felt heavy and suffocating as if something foul lingered within. It wasn't merely an unpleasant odor; the essence of the mine seemed to infiltrate his very skin, raising a sense of unease as he surveyed the area. With a careful assessment of the surroundings, he stumbled upon some unusable mining equipment along with loose ropes and discarded items. These remnants began to unlock new shields for him to utilize, and some spells were unlocked in Myne's staff.
One particular shield piqued his interest: the Air Strike Shield. Eager to explore its capabilities, he activated the skill. To his astonishment, a tangible shield materialized before him, floating gracefully in mid-air. This innovation seemed not just functional but versatile; it could serve as a platform for reaching elevated areas or as a tool to strike at flying creatures. Naofumi recognized the immense potential this shield possessed, especially when facing airborne monsters. If he mastered this skill, he could create multiple floating shields, effectively crafting a makeshift ladder or deploying a barrage against foes.
As Naofumi continued to assess the mine, he discovered yet another shield that served a different purpose. This mining shield provided essential insights, indicating where valuable minerals could be found and pinpointing the most effective points to strike. Raphtalia, however, had a different reaction to the mine's interior. She scanned the area, puzzled by the absence of detectable monsters, particularly when rumors suggested that the mine was teeming with them. In stark contrast, Myne's attention was drawn to the grim reality of the situation; as they ventured deeper, she spotted the lifeless bodies of what could only be described as fallen adventurers. It was a haunting sight, the neglect evident as these individuals had been left behind, their friends and companions failing to afford them the dignity of a proper burial. Their disregard highlighted a disturbing truth about the perils of the mine and the stark realities faced by those who dared to explore it.
Naofumi surveyed the group around him, his expression serious as he formulated a plan to ensure their safety while they worked in the mines. He first turned to Peach and Bowsette, asking them to take up defensive positions where they could keep a vigilant watch over their surroundings. He instructed them to remain alert for any signs of encroaching monsters, emphasizing the importance of their role in providing warnings should any threats attempt to sneak up behind them. Meanwhile, Naofumi and Raphtalia would focus on mining, creating noise that would potentially attract the attention of lurking creatures. This noise could deceive the monsters into thinking that they were merely miners going about their daily tasks, making them easy targets for ambush.
Myne, however, was consumed by a different concern. She felt a profound curiosity about the state of the mining shaft they were in, which appeared to be in a shocking state of neglect and disrepair. Given that her father had recently failed to offer the necessary assistance to the town, she couldn't understand why the mines, which should have been operational, were left in such a dire condition. There was something distinctly unsettling about the situation, and Myne's instincts urged her to investigate further. Driven by an inexplicable need to uncover the truth behind the decay of the mines, she resolved to dig into the mystery that surrounded her.
As Naofumi and Raphtalia began their mining efforts, they wielded their tools with efficiency and purpose. Thanks to the mining shield, they were able to pinpoint exactly where to strike, maximizing their efforts by uncovering valuable metal deposits hidden within the walls of the mine. The Air Strike Shield provided an additional advantage, allowing Raphtalia to elevate herself above ground level. This ability not only enabled her to retrieve pieces of metal that caught her eye but also afforded her a crucial vantage point. From this height, she could peer down the mining shaft, keeping a watchful eye for any sudden onslaught of monsters that might emerge from the darkness.
Their coordinated efforts proved to be fruitful. As they mined, they collected ore in increasing quantities. The close quarters of their work led to a fascinating phenomenon; fragments of metal ore would occasionally tumble onto the shield, which seemed to react as if it were alive, absorbing the pieces that made contact. This was particularly evident with the gems, which appeared to invigorate the shield as they landed upon it. The productive nature of their task not only contributed to their supplies but also offered a semblance of safety as they worked, reinforcing their resolve to uncover the secrets that lay hidden within the depths of the mine.
The initial confusion surrounding the mysterious absence of the anticipated monstrous horde soon gave way to a startling revelation. It became evident that the mines had indeed been overrun by a multitude of fearsome creatures; however, this situation was far from what anyone had initially expected. Instead of a simple aggregation of monsters ready to wreak havoc, what they encountered was an unusual and chaotic scene. These monsters had been engaged in brutal combat among themselves, a fierce struggle for dominance that took a shocking turn. In their savage encounters, they had resorted to cannibalism, consuming the remains of those they had bested in battle. By the time Naofumi and his companions made their way to the mine, the vast and terrifying horde had been drastically reduced. What stood before them now was not an army of monsters, but a singular creature that epitomized a bizarre twist of fate.
The lone survivor they encountered stood before them, a monstrous creature that resembled a dog yet was far more sinister in nature. This beast was not just any ordinary animal; it was an oddity that defied the natural order, instilling a sense of unease in all who beheld it. As Naofumi and his companions stepped forward with caution, they found themselves face to face with this chilling two-headed abomination. Each head radiated an unsettling intensity, its piercing gaze locked onto Raphtalia and the others. The hunger in its eyes was palpable, sending an icy shiver through the group as they realized the creature had identified them as potential prey.
The picture was grim, with each head drooling profusely. This primal display illustrated the beast's immense desire and eagerness to sink its teeth into what it perceived as an easy meal. The atmosphere was thick with tension, underscoring the brutality of the world they inhabited, a place where the roles of predator and prey were in constant flux, shifting without warning.
As Naofumi and his team collectively braced themselves against the threat before them, the space around them felt constricting. There was hardly enough room for them to maneuver as a cohesive unit, yet time was of the essence. Myne, standing a distance away, began to cast spells aimed at the creature, attempting to distract it with bursts of magical energy. Meanwhile, Naofumi took a bold step forward, striking the large two-headed dog on the nose in an effort to redirect its attention toward him. He knew he had to be the focal point, the bait that might allow his allies to strategize their next move.
In the midst of the chaos, Raphtalia recalled a crucial piece of advice that Naofumi had once shared: everyday items that were normally dismissed as weapons could serve as effective improvised weapons in a pinch. She quickly urged Naofumi to use his mining pick as a weapon, a simple tool that could become a means of defense. As they formulated a plan, Raphtalia proposed another idea; if Naofumi could create an air platform, perhaps she could gain the height advantage needed to leap over the beast and strike it from behind effectively. The urgency of the moment sharpened their focus, compelling them to think outside the box and utilize every resource available to them. In this dangerous confrontation, survival depended on their ability to adapt and exploit the environment around them, even in the face of such a grotesque enemy.
Utilizing the innovative platform created by the Air Strike Shield, Raphtalia executed a daring leap, pickaxe firmly gripped in her hand. The strategic height she gained provided her with a significant advantage, enabling her to deliver a powerful blow to the monstrous beast before her. In a single, decisive strike, she swung down with all her might, her pickaxe slicing through the air and then through the flesh of the creature, severing one of its heads completely from its body. At the same moment, Naofumi seized the opportunity and thrust upward with a precise strike aimed at the remaining head. His calculated maneuver sent the pickaxe straight through the skull of the two-headed dog, resulting in the swift demise of the beast within mere seconds.
As soon as the threat was eliminated, a wave of elation washed over the group. Myne, Bowsette, and Peach erupted into cheers, clearly impressed by the impressive teamwork displayed during the battle. They celebrated their victory, marveling at how effectively they had overcome such a formidable foe. In the spirit of camaraderie and gratitude for their hard-fought triumph, Myne and Naofumi decided to share a large chunk of the now-defeated creature's flesh with their companions, ensuring that no one would be left hungry after the intense encounter. Meanwhile, Bowsette, Judy, and Peach joined in on the feast, each taking their share of the monster's meat, relishing the taste of victory in the most literal sense.
In the aftermath, they also discovered the bones of the defeated monster scattered around, remnants of the struggle that had just taken place. Understanding the potential this presented, they fed the bones to the Shield and Staff, a process that proved fruitful as it unlocked even more skills for their weapons. Raphtalia observed the scene with a mix of admiration and longing, wishing she could share in the fortune that her friends enjoyed. She couldn't help but fantasize about wielding a weapon of such prowess, one that would elevate her abilities and enhance her contributions in battles to come. The experience deepened her appreciation for the power of teamwork and the unique strengths each individual brought to their collective efforts, igniting her determination to continue growing stronger alongside her companions.