interlude: I Am the Shield Hero Part 1
I don't own Rising of the Shield Hero or Live a Live…
Naofumi was feeling awkward, No one wanted to join him. Lucky, Oersted had his back by arranging his party to join him... by threatening them. Then one of Lancer's female party members... May? Meera? Mein? The Redhead decided to offer to join him, which he accepted. Before the Two left, Naofumi tried to warm her but assured him everything was fine.
Now he and his party stood before the doors to the castle, exchanging glances... The adventurers expected Naofumi would introduce himself, but he didn't know what to say. Fortunately, the blonde spoke. "Sooo, are we not introducing ourselves?" he asked, eliciting a nervous laugh from the group. "*sigh* Welp, I'll start, am name is Welt." he introduces himself
"Nice meet you, Welt," Naofumi said, to which the Rogue chuckled. "Oh, so our great leader can talk." The Rogue tensed him, causing him to blush." But anyway, "I am what you might call a thief, though I prefer the title of a rogue. I specialize in stealth and am skilled with blades although I prefer short swords, and also know a few support spells." He concluded
"Ok, Am Naofumi am... well, the Shield Hero is nice to meet all," He said; he just didn't want to embarrass them with his... shortcomings. . "Likewise," replied a gray-haired man who looked like he had stepped right out of a medieval theater play. "My name is Far—" but he was quickly interrupted as Welt playfully draped an arm around the mage's shoulders. "This lovely nerd is Farrie, a noble," the rogue said, surprising Naofumi. "He's a noble!" Naofumi thought. "Yes, thank you. Anyway, I serve as a mage and know basic elemental and support magic," the mage finally added.
"Cool..." Naofumi said before asking, "So how...?" The mage quickly explained, "Welt here works for my family. When I… Decided to become an adventurer, my father insisted that he accompany me." Naofumi raised an eyebrow; the way the mage spoke suggested he didn't have much of a choice in the matter.
Next was a green-haired girl who was looking away from him. "Umm... Miss?" he prompted. Startled, she jumped in surprise but quickly regained her composure. "Oh, sorry! I am Teresa, a martial artist," she introduced herself. Naofumi already guessed her role. "Oh, you must be a monk then," he said. The others looked at him, confused, while Teresa's expression turned to one of shock. Realizing he must have said something wrong, he quickly explained, "Where I'm from, 'monk' is a term for a martial arts class!" This surprised them. "Really?" they replied. Teresa explained that monks are usually priests who live a simple life apart from general society, before adding, "Although I do know a few healing spells," she finished with a proud smile.
Naofumi nodded. "Ok..." he said before turning his attention towards the larger man beside him. The man didn't say anything, he just stared at the Shield hero. Naofumi was unsure about the man, with a nervous look though the others were equally unsure, before he said, the man spoke. "Tell me, why did you agree to fight against the wave?" the adventurers looked at him in confusion. before turning towards the Shield Hero, who replied. "Well, I was summoned to help you guys fight until-" But was interrupted by the man. "Yes, yes, but... if and this is just hypothetical. If, upon arriving in this world, you were told they could reverse the ritual, returning you, but the shield will lose, unable to call another hero... would you agree to it?" He asked.
Naofumi was taken aback by the man's question. A few moments pounded it. On the one hand Yes would gladly take it….
But... on hand what if someone got killed because three wouldn't protect them? What if there was a boss who needed all four of them? What if Oersted...
He looked at others and then a large man; with a determined look, he replied.
"Look, I get it. Don't wield a sword, a spear, a bow, or f-ing Hammer, but can't... turn back towards those..." he stops, groans, and pulls his hair. "Oh, what do I even want to do? I am no hero, not to be compared to Oersted...
The four cringe upon hearing the name of the hero who, a minute ago, threatened to kill them. While they find the man... scary, it is clear the shield hero views him possível light.
After a few moments of silence, the man spoke. "Hmm, well, my name's Bekta. I'm a monster hunter—nothing special," he said. The others were impressed. "What? A monster hunter? I bet you have some cool stories," the rogue exclaimed, with the other two adventurers, including Naofumi, nodding in agreement. The hunter chuckled. "Heh, yeah, I have experience... but compared to a bodyguard, a noble mage, a martial artist, or a hero, I'm just a normal man. I hope I don't disappoint you, kids," he said with a nervous smile.
Naofumi returned the smile. "Well, I'm looking forward to working alongside you," he said, extending his hand toward the man, who stared at him in confusion. Naofumi widened his eyes. "Oh, sorry! Where I'm from, we usually shake hands when—" but he was interrupted by Bekta. "Oh, a handshake! Sorry, I didn't know you had that custom in your world," Bekta said as he grabbed the hero's hand and shook it vigorously. The other three adventurers facepalmed at their older companion's ignorance.
After the handshake, the hunter asked, "So what now, dear leader?" This caused Naofumi to flinch; he needed to get used to this role, but he didn't know what to do, so he decided to follow the knight's lead. "Well, since I am new here, you guys take the lead." He said, with others nodding.
"Wait," said Welt in a panic. "Just before we head into town..." The rogue removed his cloak and handed it to the Shield Hero. "The shopkeepers are expecting the heroes to buy equipment, so they'll likely jack up the prices," he explained. Naofumi nodded in understanding and put on the cloak. "Say, it looks good on you," Welt commented, impressed. Naofumi blushed at the compliment.
The newly formed party headed towards the town…
Music: FF 14 - The Pillars Day(Nobility Obliges)
Naofumi was amazed by the sight of the town. Sure, there is no big city like Tokyo, but still, he never thought a Medieval city would be so lively. His companions were seeing one of the Cardial Hero act like a Kid.
"Ahaha, man, he's acting like he's never seen a town," Welt commented. But the mage quickly replied, "I mean, from his perspective, this town might seem very small." This confused the rogue and the martial artist. "Huh?" they said, as Farrie quickly explained, "What I hear from stories from previous heroes, they claimed their cities were huge, towering places where trillions lived… per city." He said, shocking the Two Adventurers. "wait? Seriously?" Teresa exclaimed. But Bekta spoke. "Ok, you quit gossiping, their shop closed by, we... Where is Naofumi?" He asked, widen three looking around for the leader.
While he was sightseeing, Naofumi bumped into something... or someone. He turned to see a tall individual, possibly the same height as Bekta; he (Naofumi thought he was a man) was wearing a red jacket with a blue sash around his waist, and he had light purple boots and a disheveled red hat. His lower face is covered in a brown scarf, and he wears brown fingerless gloves. Lastly, he had a large tan backpack with a sleeping bag wrapped up on top.
The Guy looked like a fully prepared Adventurer... Wait?. Naofumi recognized him. "Isn't he the merchant from Final Fantasy: The 4 Heroes of Light?" he thought.
"Oh, very Sorry," the man spoke, apologizing, snapping Naofumi out of his stupor. No, no, no, I should apologize; I wasn't looking. He said. The man, for his part, was nonchalantly about. "Is it already... sir? Say, you're not from here aren't you?." He asked; before Naofumi could respond, he heard his companion coming. "Hey Naofumi don't run ooooof..." Teresa said before noticing the red-clothed man. Who looked puzzled. "Now-Fum I?" He asked, clearly confused by the hero's name.
The two companions exchanged nervous glances before the other arrived, and the red adventure noticed the hunter. "Heeey are you Sir Bekta? The former captain of the guard:" This caused the large man to be taken aback. "Oh no, no, though we share a shameful name," he said nervously; this caused the large man to be taken aback. "Oh no, no, though we share a shameful name," he replied nervously, leaving the party puzzled, except for Teresa, who shot him a narrowed look.
"Hmmm, I see, and judging by your attire, the four of you are adventures." The red adventure pointed towards the four before towards Naofumi. "And while he must be noticed," he said; the party widened before Farrie replied. "Yeah, 'Now' just joined; we are heading some equipment," he nervously replied. The Red Adventure rubs his chin. "Ah, I see; well, that followed me," he gestured towards them. "Huh?" They asked puzzled.
The Adventurer just placed a hand on their hip. "Wanted good gear with decent prices that follow me" before heading away, The Party exhausted glances, but they decided they wouldn't hunt to see what to offer and went following him.
After a short walk outdoors of the shop, Naofumi looked at the sign but wouldn't read it. Farrie quickly read it. "Elhard shop," he said out loud, the mage scratching his head. "Elhard? Why does that sound familiar?" He turned towards Red Adventure. "So is this your-" But interrupted by the man shaking his head. "Nooope! Never meet the man," He said; the party looked at him confused, and he quickly explained. "Elhard is one great blacksmith and very generous when it comes to newbies." He said, Naofumi turned towards the sign once more. "Elhard," Naofumi tried to remember if ever heard that name, but had nothing.
"Yup, Elhard..." before pointing at his head. "Got it memorized". He said, causing Naofumi to widen and turn. "Wait? Huh?" but the thought was cut off when Welt suddenly slammed his fist into his palm. "Oh Elhard, now remember he was a big-time adventurer years ago; he often gives discounts towards rookies' adventures and knights. What I hear he wears is of quality." When he finished, Others were impressed. Teresa thanked the red adventurer. "Thank sir..." But he is alright gone, the youngster blankly stares, before sighing. "Well, better head... Bekta?" Naofumi said, gathering the attention; all turned to their senior companion with a widened expression on his face. "Why had to be him?" he asked under his breath.
'Are You alright?"
"What's wrong?"
"Yeah you like you see a ghost"
He looked at his worried party, and the man just sighed. "More than you think," he said, confusing them. "huh?"
Then Naofumi replied. "Hey, if you don't, we go to another..." Bekta stops him. "No, Elhard is a great blacksmith. He gets some gear in no time, and besides..." he sighs before heading inside. "I already put this off for long enough," he finished. The others exchanged exhausted glances before shrugging, while Teresa stared suspiciously at him.
The party entered the shop and was greeted by the owner. "Well, welcome to my..." he said happily before noticing that it was the Hunter. "...oh, it's you..." he continued, his eyes narrowing, clearly not pleased to see him.
The Blacksmith himself was a shaved-headed, breaded middle-aged (maybe older) fellow with his face and arms were fulled of old scars. He wears an off-white undershirt beneath a beige overalls-like forger apron hung only by the left shoulder, black gloves, dark brown pants, and brown-beige upturned boots.
He shot daggers at Bekta, who only signed in response. "Hello, Elhard... it's been a while." The rest of the party looked on nervously as the scowling blacksmith folded his arms. "I'm surprised that a murdering dog like you has the guts to show your ugly face in my shop," he said. Bekta merely looked away, indicating their unpleasant history. Naofumi was worried about his older teammate.
The blacksmith walked up to Bekta and stared him down while the hunter was a bit taller, but the blacksmith somehow looked more scary. "*sigh* it makes you happy..." As he said it, the blacksmith geared up to punch him, Naofumi wants to intervene, but the bald man just stops. "...you ain't even worth it," before returning to the counter.
"Now what do you want? if it is a new Axe, it will…" But Bekta stopped him. "Oh no, my friend here wants to buy equipment." Elhard widened, "Huh?" before noticing the younger adventures. "oh... OH! YOU JACKASS, WHY DIDN'T YOU TELL ME YOU WERE... *sighed* Nevermind." He rubbed his temples. "
The Shield Hero finally spoke up. "Hi, my name is Naofumi." He smiled nervously. The Blacksmith just gave bewildered looks. "Naofumi? What's an odd name... wait." He left to inspect the hero's outfit. "So you are one of the Cardial Heroes aren't you." Naofumi nodded; the older man rubbed his chin while examining the hero. "hmmm, I don't see a spear nor a bow, so you must be the sword hero then?". He guessed; Naofumi scratched his hair in embarrassment, revealing the shield. "No sir am the Shield Hero," he said
The Blacksmith widened in surprise, then turned to Bekta, then the Hero, and back to Bekta. Before starting laughing. "Hahaha. What did you piss off Aultcray, Ahahaha." Naofumi was getting annoyed. "Look I get it, I am the Unless Hero, but..." He stopped the confused look of the blacksmith. "Huh? What are you..." Before widening and turning towards Shield Hero's Party. "...the blacksmith wide-eyed and turned to the Shield Hero's party. "...you idiots didn't tell him? Did you?" he inquired, receiving nervous glances from them, which only confused the outworlder further. "Huh? What do you–"
Elhard interrupted and explained. "Oversimplified things, over the course of the waves, many heroes decided to stay in this world, most always they marry members of royal families and because of that, there are four Major Countries you can say are heavily associated with one Cardial Weapon." He said this shocked Naofumi, but Elhard continued. "The royal family of this kingdom are descendants from various previous Spear Heroes, making Melromarc associated with the Spear, while another country named Siltvelt is associated with the Shield. And let's just say that the two nations don't see eye to eye." He said
Naofumi was speechless, but thinking about it would explain why the king disregarded him and why no adventurers wanted to be joined with him (willing). "So King, why disregard me," he said, which surprised Elhard. "Wait, Aultcray? Oh, the guy isn't even a royal." he said nonchalantly, confusing the hero. "huh?".
Elhard revealed that the king simply married in position and, from what he heard, he, The King, and the General were rivals for the hand of the queen when she was still a princess. This surprised Naofumi... But when he thought about it, it did make sense; arrangements weren't unheard of, and the kingdom was basically a fantasy Medieval kingdom in which Political Marriages were very common.
That a thought crossed his mind. Maybe the queen is Princess Sarah of FF? That would explain Garland's presence and ...wait? "Does that mean the King was actually the Warrior of Light," he thought.
Elhard suddenly spoke, snapping Naofumi out of his stupor. "Anyway, you want some armor, right," he asked; the youngest just nodded. "Then followed him, kid," The Blacksmith said; Naofumi went to the corner, and Welt and Farrie decided to assist the hero, leaving Bekta and Teresa.
After something, Naofumi decided to pick the Leather Armor; heading towards the changing room, he threw his clothing. Farrie organized clothes until he got Hero's green jacket, which felt oddly weighty. Checking the pockets, grab... an odd rectangle thing. "Hey Hexer, what are you gawking at?" Welt asked, startling the mage, who nearly dropped the artifact. "Nothing!" he replied, as he placed it in his pocket.
Meanwhile, Bekta and Teresa wanted the former-looking axes until the Martial artist spoke up. "So you're a captain, huh? She asked; the man didn't turn to face her; he was simply responding. "I already said I am not him. Is it just a coincidence that we share-" But interrupted by Teresa. "You know it is a sin to lie," she lied with narrowed eyes.
Bekta simply turned towards her, and the board exploded. "Oh Really? Is that a fact?" he said. The woman folds her arms. "I recognized you the moment I saw your face. Your Count Bekta Orlandeau, sure you might have gotten older since the war, but you're still the Black Wolf Warrior." She said, two stared at each other for a moment.
Until the man let out a chuckle. "Hehehehe congratulations, missy. I am not surprised that an agent of Balamus would know, who am I," he said, shocking the woman. "What? How did..." she stopped herself. Bekta continues to chuckle. "How? Well, his Highness told me the Church would use their agents to accompany the heroes, and since Farrie's family is allied with the Royal Family, I doubt that Welt is a secret undercover Church agent. So leaves you the only one left," he said; Teresa was speechless.
After a few moments of silence, Bekta spoke. "Don't worry, I am not on the body." This shocks the woman, then lets out a sigh. "You right, a member of Church, am a simple nun," she said, but sentiment shocked the captain/hunter. "Wait? You a Nun?" he replied. Teresa just pouted in annoyance. "Hey, I have hobbies," she exclaimed.
"But anyway, His Holiness asked me to accompany the Sword Hero, and I was honored—" She stopped when Bekta chuckled. "Yeah, you must have been ready to freak out when he teamed you up with the Shield Hero." He said. Teresa narrowed her eyes before softening.
"At first, I was enraged that I was forced to follow the Shield Devil... but seeing him in person and talking to him, he was so..." She struggled to find the right words until Bekta spoke for her. "Human?" he asked, and she nodded in agreement.
"It's not just him; it's others as well... maybe except Oersted," she said. The older companion simply replied, "The Heroes are not gods; it's now clear that three of them are just unlucky kids dragged into a world they might not be mentally prepared for." Before Teresa could ask another question, Welt, now wearing his green cape, abruptly appeared.
"Alright, lady and gentlemen, Let me introduce you to a new hero." After saying that, Naofumi appeared with a nervous expression, being pushed by the Backsmith. The Hero is now wearing leather armor worn over his native white shirt and green pants. Additionally, he wears leather gloves, leather boots, and a long green cape.
Two were impressed; Naofumi looked like a proper Adventurer, and he rubbed his head in embarrassment. Welt walked over to one of the displays and grabbed a short sword. "Here, you would need something to fight," he said, giving the blade to Naofumi, but suddenly, Teresa exclaimed. "Naofumi wait!"
But Hero had already grabbed the sword, and suddenly, a small jolt shocked him, causing him to drop the blade.
The Everyone stared at the blade in shock and confusion, the men all turned toward Teresa
alert appeared in front of Naofumi which he read out loud:
Waring - Weapon Violation
(The Legendary Hero is only allowed to use what was assigned. Wielding or using any type of object that isn't their assigned weapon to fight or harm others, will will be punishable by a non-lethal shock)
Bekta was baffled; he asked Teresa. "What I read about out, the Cardinal Heroes aren't allowed to use another weapon they're assigned," she explained. Welt voiced his displeasure with Farrie agreeing. Teresa replied, "Look, I am unhappy about this too! But...um? Naofumi?" Teresa asked; everyone turned to see that Naofumi was just staring at the message. "to fight or harm others," he murmured before turning to the blade on the floor. Naofumi remembered what Oersted had said:
"Don't let these mechanics don't hold you back. Bend them to suit you"
He coughed down all while murmuring, "Bend them". Before grabbing the blade once more and... Nothing happened. Much to everyone's confusion. "huh!" exclaimed a shocked Teresa. Then the Hero placed the blade on the counter and went up to the weapons display to grab a hand axe, then tried a battle axe, which shocked him.
Then he grabbed Brozen's shield. At that moment, Farrie interjected, "Um, Naofumi?" His words jolted Naofumi from his daze. "Oh, Sorry, testing something; it seems I can't use another weapon except shields in combat." He said as he inspected the Bronze Shield.
"but you-" Welt was about to point out, when Naofumi informed him. "I specified in Combat, I can still use weapons if they are used as tools, such as an axe for chopping wood, a blade for slicing food, hell if you thinked out it, a knife and fork can be used as weapons," He said, causing everyone to gaze at Naofumi in astonishment.
"Regardless, at least, I can dual-" Just as he began, another jolt shocked him, causing him to drop the shield. Then a new alert appeared:
Waring - Weapon Violation
(The Legendary Hero is not allowed dual-wielded)
He Narrowed his eyes in annoyance... but then he noticed it, a another message, swiped the alert away, he saw an the unread message:
Weapon Copy:
(The Legendary Weapons can copy any same weapon type that the chosen Heroes wield, allowing them to access their powers and abilities.
(Some weapons have level requirements; if the level is above the user's, they can't use them until the user reaches the same level.)
Then a Shield list appeared, listing a new shield: Bronze Shield. Naofumi pressed it, which caused the shield to change into a perfect copy of the Bronze Shield held earlier. Everyone was shocked. "how?" Teresa asked, her jaw agape.
Naofumi was just astonished. "... I guess I can copy shields-" He was interrupted when Elhard's cough gathered their attention. "So you guys are going to just gawk all day or..." He said, casing to exchange glances until Naofumi cleared his throat. "sorry, how much for armor, the cape...and the shield I duplicated?" This last statement shocked his companions. "WHAT?"
The Blacksmith's eyes widened as he stared at the outworlder... before starting laughing.
"HAHAHA, I liked you, kid, but anyway the total is 800 Copper or 8 silver, and I'll let you copy one more shield for free"
This surprised Naofumi. "What? but why?" He asked, with Elhard simply replied, "Why not? And besides, I tell you that you are a good person," he said. Naofumi stared at him before poundering; after a few moments, he asked. "Well, one question... Do you have a spiked shield?" He asked. Elhard smiled. "Yes I do"
Later
Later, Naofumi and his Party went to buy essential supplies before heading to the grind. His shield was now in Bronze Shield form, and he thought it would be better to lay low for now; he told the shopkeepers about the four heroes. And apparently, Motoyasu was the only one who revealed his statutes. Oersted, he wasn't surprised that he didn't reveal it, but Itsuki? For someone who called himself an "ally of justice," Naofumi was surprised that he didn't announce to the whole world who he was... maybe he wanted to make a big debut…
The Party already brought a few things, like a leather shoulder bag, now he was waiting for the others to finish their shopping, while waiting he saw a wagon being pulled by two Chocobo-like creatures being driven by someone wearing fedora?
He raised an eyebrow, he was wondering if medieval times had fedoras, when he heard a familiar voice. "Simply amazing, Kid." Turning, he saw The Red Adventurer again, leaning against the wall; Naofumi narrowed his eyes at the man, who approached him and inspected him. "You looked like a proper Adventurer," he said.
After a few moments, Naofumi asked him a question. "Tell me that's the name; Roxas mean anything to you?" he asked; the adventurer just stared... and tilted his head. "Ro-Sex?" he said, causing Naofumi to widen. "No, Ro-xas." he repeated. The man rubbed his chin before responding. "nope," he said.
Naofumi didn't know anything about it. "Heartless, Xenmas, Lea, Organization 13" This just caused the man to stare at him. "Are you just throwing random words at me?" he said. Naofumi let out a sigh, giving up. The adventurer laughed before grabbing Naofumi's hand and giving him something. Naofumi looked at it and realized it was an hourglass. Confused, he asked, "What is this?" The adventurer simply replied, "Think of it as a good luck charm, especially when you insert it into your Shield." Naofumi was bewildered by this statement, but then he heard Teresa's voice. "Hey, Naofumi, quit you're gawking and let's go!" He turned to see his party, and when he looked back at the adventurer, he was gone. "Hey, Naofumi, what's wrong?" asked Bekta. Naofumi blinked before responding that everything was fine.
Meanwhile, the red-clad adventurer perched on top of a building was observing them. He took off the hat, revealing bright red hair styled into slicked-back spikes. The man stared at the hero and his party, smirking.
Later - Forest
Music: Dawn of Mana - Endless Battlefield
The Party arrived in the forest, where they were immediately ambushed by an odd orange ball-like monsters, that Welt quickly referred them as Balloons. Four of the creatures attempted to lunge at the hero, but he quickly changed to his Spiked Shield, causing them to pop like... well like Balloons. Upon their deaths, numbers appeared in his vision: 1 Exp.
They quickly dealt with the rest of them, leaving deflated remains that looked like disregarded ripped plastic bags; Naofumi grabbed one of them and was shocked that the remains had a rubbery feel.
"So Kid, how it fell, you 1st kills?" Asked Bekta; before Naofumi could respond, suddenly, the remains all started to glow softly before a small ball disappeared into the shield.
"What 's was that?!" Naofumi nearly falls from the sudden event. Even the other confused
Naofumi served a notification: New Shield unlocked: Small Orange Shield
2 Defense
He pressed it, and the Shield changed into what looked like an orange plastic replica of the Cardial Shield. The party looked in amazement, Farrie in particular, who inspected it. "I read that the heroes were able to use the souls of slayed enemies to create weapons" This caused Naofumi to reeled in shock. "SOULS?!" Welt pointed out, "Yeah, it looked like the Shield just consumed the remains."
Naofumi, observing the Shield, before reverted it to its default form and picked some grass. He placed the grass on top of the green jewel, which made it glow before disappearing. This action triggered a notification to appear:
Leaf
- Do want to absorb it -
or
- Would you like to store it -
He pressed the (absorb) icon, causing the shield to glow and charging into a large leaf-like shield: Leaf Shield.
Equip bonus: 1 Absorption Ability
This impressed everyone, and Naofumi emphasized that his party should get moving. During their travels, Naofumi asked the hunter for explanations about the Balloon, and he learned they were a common mob in this world. He jokingly asked how they are compared to slimes and was shocked to find that none of his party members knew what a slime was. However, Bekta mentioned that Balloons come in a wide range of strengths and sizes, and he had even heard stories of individuals using large Balloons as mounts.
Naofumi thought Balloons were basically the Silmes from Dragon Quest, but angrier
During their grinding session, they managed to kill many more balloons and they have encountered different species like a few odd egg monsters, then what looks like palette swaps of the Balloons that use its tongue, and a rabbit-like creature. At some point, he managed Level Up; while his attack state didn't increase, at least his magic increased. It was the 3rd highest state, behind Def and .
They were confident enough to venture deeper into the forest when encountered more monsters, ones that Naofumi recognized. First they faced DQ's Scornet, a bumblebee and scorpion hybrid. He warned his party that the creature's stringer had capably paralyzed them, after some difficulty hitting, Naofumi managed to block its attack, giving opportunity Welt to kill it
Later, they ran into a flock of FF6's Darkwings; they were a bit smaller than the game indicated but quick to dodge, but Naofumi managed to lead his party to the birds.
While resting, Welt was bitten by what looked like a Basilisk from the Mana series, the others helped the rogue in killing it. Later they learned from Bakta, that was a baby Basilisk, and what he described the adults were more akin to the FF variety
However in one particular encounter, the party stumbled upon a monstrous hybrid of a bull and a bird; The Bullfinch from Dragon Quest, who suddenly attacked them, Farrie quickly used a fire spell, but only to enraged it and charged at the mage, Naofumi managed to push him away, causing the beast to collision a tree. Naofumi suggested they retreat, while Farrie agreed; the rest of the party ignored the Hero, with Welt throwing a few knives, drawing its attention; the creature began to kick up dirt when both Bekta and Teresa struck the beast, causing a cough of blood.
It roars, headbutts Teresa, and manages to kick Bakta, which fires a breath attack at Welt that causes him to become paralyzed at contact. Bullfinch begins to kick up dirt, clearly preparing a charge.
Naofumi suddenly leaped on top of the beast, gripping its horns tightly as it thrashed about. Holding on dear life, he managed to keep it under control while Bekta safely moved the paralyzed Welt away from the danger. The remaining adventurers sprang into action to confront the beast. Farrie cast an ice lance, forming it into an [Icicle Lance, and threw it at the creature's neck. Causing it to stand up in pain, the mage cries out to the hero, urging him to let go, which he does.
Teresa swiftly dashed and raising an open palm, she executed the Five Star Crimson Palm technique, delivering a powerful strike at the creature's chest. Causing it to tumble backward, Seizing the opportunity, Bekta swiftly gripped his axe and brought it down at Bullfinch's head, decapitating it.
The Party panting heavily, Bekta gave a tired laugh, praising Naofumi's bravery. Naofumi, however, was just staring at the bloody dead bull hybrid. The older man turned to Teresa, who also gazed at the creature, both clearly shaken by seeing so much blood for the first time. He placed a hand on Hero's shoulder, snapping him out of his stupor.
Three Adventurers turned to see Farrie, trying to cure the rouge out of his paralyzed; Teresa knelt beside her companion and placed her hands gently on him; a soft, radiant glow began to emanate from her palms, illuminating the man, and shortly after, the rouge was able to move.
Naofumi scolded them for their carelessness. Welt tried to assure him that they had everything under control. However, Naofumi turned his gaze to the rogue, his tone serious. "What if Teresa couldn't cure your paralysis?" He asked, prompting the other Adventurers, minus Farrie, to widen their eyes in realization. They hung their heads in shame, understanding the gravity of their oversight.
As the sun was setting down, the party decided to camp for the night. Teresa offers to cook, but surprisingly, Naofumj volunteers instead. During their hunt, the Hero experimented with the menu; he learned that the shield could store monster parts, thanked others for suggestions, and discovered he had removed items.
Started pouring the dark-wing meat onto the cooking pan, and then he swapped the shield for the Sky Egg Shield
Equip bonus: Simple recipes
It gave him insight of related with cooking eggs, he grabbed the Mortar Set they bought, poured some of the eggshells of Eggugs on it, and started beating it into a coarse powder, which he poured into the meat and then swapped into Egg Shield
Equip bonus: 1 Cooking
Improving his skills and sometime later, he put cooked meat plates and gave them to his party. Then the Hero exclaimed, "I called it Dark Squab." The Adventurers gave unsure glances before Bekta took the first bite. Moments later, his eyes lit up... "taste delicious!" he exclaimed, prompting the others to take a bite and be taken aback by how delicious it was. "Oh, you guys just saying that," Naofumi said, embarrassed, but they told him it was true, even Farrie said, praising his cooking.
Naofumi is surprised. "Really? I doubt that since you are noble, I bet eating..." he stopped when he saw both the mage and rogue gave the number expression, much to his and Teresa's confusion.
Farrie let out a heavy sigh before revealing his full Farrie of House Alexandros, which shocked Teresa. Naofumi titled his head; Bekta explained that House Alexandros was one high house of Melromarc... up until 12 years ago when their statues were stripped of most of their fortune by the king.
Naofumi gasped in Shock. "Why?" he asked. The mage explained that the heir of the house, his older brother, was assured of the murder of the royal prince, which horrified the Hero.
However, the queen spared them since there was little proof of the murder, but her Highness was forced to strip their status and exile Farrie's brother. Naofumi felt bad for the mage, and he turned towards the rogue. "So how you got a rope with him" he asked
Welt rubbed his head. "Well, my House Alexandros were the lords of the land I live in and, well, long story short, my family owned the Alexandros, asked me to help Farrie to make money; I was already an Adventurer." he said, that Farrie added. "The King made the call for the adventurers, I offer in the hopes I can regain some honor for my family name," he finished.
Naofumi looked at the mage, unsured; even Teresa was in the same boat.
But Bakta stepped forward. "Good, I know that each of us had our own reason to fight." He said the party exhausted glances before the senior companion continued. "But we must not lose sight of our purpose, if we together, we would rise to the challenges ahead." he continued, his voice imbued with conviction. Naofumi realized that despite the uncertainties looming over them, their motivations could enable them to face whatever lay ahead as a united front.
Afterward, they prepared a call for the night, and Bakta volunteered on the night watch. As the youngster slept, he remembered his talking to the king:
Bakta arrived at the castle hours after the summoning, the day before, and received the letter from Aultcray urging him to the castle. The Guards brought him to the throne room, where he saw Aultcray, the two embraced after decades apart. "Bakta! Or should I just call you Count Bakta?" the king said with a smile. Bakta responded with a laugh. "Oh come now,
Aultcray just chuckles. "I wanted to thank you for your help with that feral beast," he said. Bakta then grew serious, asking, "Is it true? The Waves are upon us?" The king nodded. The Count asked if 'Q' left for the conference, and while the king confirmed, he looked away, causing Bakta to ask, "What's wrong?"
Aultcray revealed, "The Four have been summoned." He told him, who didn't understand at first; after a second of pounding, he widened and became pale. What... what did you do?" Panic set in as he grabbed Aultcray's collar, demanding to know how he could remain calm. They argued before Aultcray explained that other nations were also preparing for war.
Before the waves began, three vassal weapons vanished after their wielders had been found dead.
The King continued to explain. "But if we play our cards, by the time the nations retaliate, we have the heroes on our side," he finished. The Count was skeptical, especially when he learned that Biscas had requested his representatives to accompany the heroes; no doubt they were the ones behind this…
"And why did you ask me to come here?" he said. Aultcray told the court that he wanted him to accompany the sword hero since it had been a long time since the war, so many wouldn't reconnect the court…
He just raised an eyebrow, asking to hide his identity, but learned a representative of the Alexandros would join, and no doubt, he would want to ally with the Sword… while despite them, for the murder of his son, he was willing to give the youngest a chance…
"No doubt he wants me to keep an eye on Alexandros," Bakta thought.
After some time pounding, he accepted his friend's request. Aultcray thanked him and then called the two knights to escort Bakta to the guest room for the night, leaving him to dread the nations' reactions when they discovered what the King did.
Much later, Bakta woke up, feeling sunlight hitting his eyes; the man began to stretch and rub his eyes. He saw others were asleep... minus Naofumi
He hears grants, follows them, and discovers thatNaofumi is practicing his swings with his shield.
After a few more swings, he began panting in exhaustion. "impressed, kid," Bakta tells Naofumi, who leaps in shock, surprised by the man's presence. "Bakta!"
The Older just laughs. "Are young planning your swings to slap your opponents with the shield... because that would hunt" he said, flushing the hero.
Naofumi scratches his head. "Well since your fighting skills, it made me realize that if I need to get good using this," he said. Bakta raised an eyebrow. "kid, you are the shield, meaning your role is to defend and support your party and the hero". He said Naofumi wanted to object, but Hunter raised a finger, stopping him. "I am not done; as a shield hero, your power can equal an entire army or even a fortress, hell what have you heard stories of Four heroes getting free-for-all battles, the shield is almost the one last standing." He finished, turned into a speechless Hero.
"So if you want to stand a chance." He said while he grabbed his axe. "then you couple things while using a shield".He points with the Axe at Outworlder. "So interested?".
Naofumi stared at him, and after a few seconds, without saying, he was in a defensive stance and Man slimed, prepared a stance
The Two began their training.
Notes:
Welp, here's the first interlude chapter of the story. I wanted to establish Naofumi dynamic with his/Ren's party.
Currently, Naofumi is dressed in his attire from "Reprise of the Spear Hero," but am not sure whether to give him a bandit-inspired look or to explore a different style entirely.
Additionally, I made backstories for the members of the Naofumi/Ren party, which allows me to further expand the world of "Reprise of the Spear Hero." While I am still thinking of Welt and Teresa.
But here's Farrie's and Bakta's:
- Farrie was the youngest son of House Alexandros, one the high houses of Melromarc, whose fortunes took a tragic turn when his older brother was wrongfully accused of murdering the royal youngest son. While that was little evidence, he was still banished and the family's noble status was stripped away. This forced them to sell their ancestral lands to keep them afloat. (Spoilers for Reprise of the Spear Hero) I Am adding that Malty framed Farrie's Brother for the prince's death just to give Naofumi more reason to hate her.
- Count Bakta Orlandeau was once a formidable and skilled sellsword, who comes to prominence when served in the Siltvelt-Melromarc War fighting alongside Aultcray (The Warrior of Light), Garland (The Dark Knight), 'Lord Seaetto' and then Princess Mirellia. His prowess on the battlefield earned him the title of Count after the war, yet he has since become a reclusive figure, shunning the limelight and making only the rarest public appearances, often at exclusive gatherings. He's based on Count Cidolfus Orlandeau of Final Fantasy Tactics and a bit of inspiration from Bronn of Game of Thrones.
Also them the shields were unlocked, since Naofumi isn't the MC here, am buffing him here
- Spiked Shield
- A light bronze medium shield with sport spikes protruding from the center -
Coping the shield in Elhard's shop
Special equip bonus: 1 Attack
Equip bonus: 5 Defense
- Scornet Shield
- A Small green shield which resemble Scornet -
Unlocked from Scornet
Equip bonus: Paralysis resistance up
- Dark Feather
- A Small shield covered with dark brown feathers -
Unlocked from Dark Wind feathers.
Equip bonus: 5 Agility
- Small Basilisk Shield
- A Small green shield which resemble head of Basilisk -
Unlocked from Baby Basilisk skin
* Equip bonus: paralysis resistance up (small)
- Bullfinch Shield,
- Medium Shield that resemble a bull's head -
Special equip bonus: 2 Attack / Stun change increased up
Equip bonus: Stamina up (small) / SP increase (small)
Equip skill: Bull Slam
- The user slams its shield into the target with a full-body charge attack, which may also leave the target stunted. This also damages the user.-