Chapter 4 Dragon training
A week had passed, and Izuku, Malty, and Raphtalia had been steadily growing stronger, taking down higher-level monsters with increasing efficiency. They had roughly two weeks left before the next Wave, and their party had reached level 20.
That night, as Izuku and Malty rested in their tent, Malty abruptly kicked him in the side, jolting him awake.
"What the hell, Malty?!" Izuku growled, rubbing his ribs.
She smirked, unbothered by his frustration, before pointing at the small nest of incubation cages near their gear. "You might wanna wake up, dumbass."
Izuku's irritation faded instantly as his eyes darted to the cages. The eggs, all three of them, were shaking, tiny cracks forming across their hardened shells. A sharp crack filled the tent as the first one split open, a small, fiery-red creature crawling free.
"A fire pseudo-dragon," Izuku muttered, watching the small beast shake itself off.
Malty's eyes lit up with excitement as she reached for the newly hatched dragon, scooping it up with surprising gentleness. "Ooooh, I love fire! Look at this little thing! It's adorable." She cradled the hatchling, which chirped and licked her fingers.
Before Izuku could respond, another egg shattered. This one revealed a dark blue pseudo-dragon that sparked with tiny bursts of electricity as it let out a shrill cry.
"A lightning pseudo-dragon," he noted, already reaching for the last egg.
A moment later, the third and final hatchling emerged, a light blue pseudo-dragon with tiny frills along its head. When it yawned, a faint mist of water came from its mouth.
"A water pseudo-dragon," Izuku finished, marveling at them.
Malty giggled, lifting the red dragon up to eye level. "I love this one! It suits me, don't you think?"
Izuku smirked. "Yeah. And you can have it."
She blinked, caught off guard. "Wait, what? Seriously?"
"Yeah," he said, shrugging. "You like fire, and I'd rather have dragons we can actually work with. This guy will be more useful with you."
She hesitated for a moment before smirking, clutching the little beast closer. "Hah. You're not as dumb as you look, Shield Hero."
Izuku ignored the jab, checking the status screens of the dragons. They were incredibly low-level, barely above newborn status, and each only knew one basic spell aligned with their element. They'd need a lot of training to be viable in battle.
"Alright," he said, setting the other two dragons on the ground. "Let's start leveling them up."
Malty yawned, stretching. "They'll need food first."
"Already on it," Izuku replied, pulling out some scraps of meat from their supplies. The pseudo-dragons eagerly snapped at the pieces, chirping excitedly.
The next morning, they started training. The newly hatched dragons hunted weak monsters, biting and clawing at balloons while Raphtalia giggled, feeding them extra treats whenever they managed a successful attack.
Izuku watched, arms crossed, as Malty gleefully cheered her fire pseudo-dragon on. "Burn them, my little flame!"
The tiny beast let out a weak ember spark, barely singing a balloon.
Izuku smirked. "Looks like it takes after you. All bark, no bite."
Malty turned and kicked him in the shin.
The training continued well into the afternoon, with the dragons gradually becoming more adept at fighting. Their once feeble attacks were now landing with precision, their small bodies darting between balloons and lower-level monsters.
As they rested near the campfire, the dragons curled up around them, their tiny chests rising and falling with exhausted breaths.
Izuku wiped his forehead, exhaling. "Alright, if these guys are sticking around, we need to name them."
Malty hummed, running her fingers through her fire pseudo-dragon's scales. "Hmm… well, mine is obviously going to be Pyro." She smirked. "It's got fire, and it's mine, perfect name, right?"
Izuku rolled his eyes. "Yeah, yeah, sure. Pyro it is."
The fire pseudo-dragon let out a soft chirp, seemingly pleased with the name.
He turned his gaze toward the light blue pseudo-dragon, who was curled up near his leg, its frilled head resting against his boot. Its tiny body gave off a cool sensation, almost as if mist were constantly emanating from it.
He reached out, running his hand along its head, feeling the smooth, damp texture of its scales. "You're calm, quiet, and you remind me of water," he mused. "So… Aqua."
The little dragon lifted its head, blinking its large, curious eyes before letting out a soft trill, rubbing against his palm.
Malty scoffed. "Aqua? Wow, real creative, hero."
Izuku shot her a deadpan look. "Says the woman who named hers Pyro."
She stuck her tongue out at him in response.
Finally, he turned his attention to the dark blue pseudo-dragon, who was still twitching slightly in its sleep, tiny sparks crackling along its scales. This one had the most energy, always the first to attack and the last to retreat.
Izuku smirked. "And you… you're full of energy, always jumping into a fight first. Thunder suits you."
At the mention of its name, the lightning pseudo-dragon's body jolted, its small wings fluttering before it let out a chirping zap, causing Malty to yelp as a static shock traveled up her arm.
She glared at the dragon before rubbing her arm. "Oh, great. Now I have to deal with that thing electrocuting me for fun."
Izuku chuckled. "At least Pyro won't set you on fire. Yet."
She clicked her tongue. "Yet."
With the dragons officially named, they continued training for the rest of the day.
Aqua, though slow and methodical, became adept at using its water abilities to hinder enemies, slowing down movement with small, misty bursts.
Thunder, true to its name, became the most aggressive, dashing between enemies and delivering sharp zaps of electricity that left their foes momentarily stunned.
Pyro, much to Malty's delight, finally started using actual fire instead of weak embers, unleashing small but precise bursts of flame.
By the time the sun had dipped below the horizon, all three dragons had reached level six.
Malty plopped down near the fire, stretching her arms lazily. "Not bad. They're stronger than they were this morning."
Izuku nodded in agreement, rubbing Aqua's frilled head as the little dragon nuzzled into his palm. "Yeah. But we still have a long way to go if we want them to be battle-ready before the next Wave."
Raphtalia, who had been quietly feeding small chunks of meat to the dragons, looked up. "They're learning really fast," she said softly. "Maybe… maybe we should see if they can learn other spells?"
Izuku stroked his chin in thought. "That's not a bad idea. If we can find magic-infused stones, we might be able to unlock stronger abilities for them."
Malty perked up. "There's a mage's shop back in town that sells magic stones and books. We should check it out tomorrow."
Izuku smirked. "Finally, a good idea from you."
She kicked him in the shin again.
As the night settled, the dragons curled up beside their respective masters. Malty laid Pyro in her lap, stroking its small head as it let out content, purring-like vibrations.
Izuku smiled as Aqua tucked itself against his side, its cool body acting almost like a natural ice pack against his warmth.
Thunder, meanwhile, decided to shock Malty one last time before rolling onto its back, tiny limbs twitching.
Malty yelped before scowling at the mischievous pseudo-dragon. "Oh, you and I are going to have problems, you little shock rat."
Izuku snickered. "Looks like he likes you."
She shot him a glare. "Yeah? Then why don't you take him?"
Izuku smirked. "Because you seem to have a way with animals, Meowlty."
Malty growled, her eyes gleaming in the dim firelight. "Don't ever call me that again."
Before Izuku could smirk at her reaction, she mounted him, crashing her lips against his, her kiss possessive, demanding. Her hands tangled into his hair as she ground her hips against his, her body pressing into his in a way that left no space between them.
The pseudo-dragons chirped at the sudden movement, taking the hint and scurrying off to their little nest nearby, leaving their masters to their privacy.
Malty chuckled against his lips, rolling her hips with teasing precision. "Mama wants some fun tonight," she purred, her tongue darting into his mouth, tasting him with a hunger that never seemed to fade. "And Mama always gets what she wants."
Izuku groaned, his fingers trailing down her back before squeezing her soft, round backside, eliciting a pleased gasp from her.
She arched into him, nipping at his neck as she whispered against his skin, "Every night… I need you."
His grip on her tightened, his fingers digging into her hips, pulling her down against him. His lips captured hers once more, his kisses growing rougher, more demanding, as his hands roamed across her curves, claiming her just as much as she was claiming him.
For Malty, this was perfect. Everything was going according to plan.
She had him. She had his body, his trust, his strength. He was hers.
Or so she thought.
As her eyes flickered toward the pseudo-dragons curled up in their nest, something strange twisted in her gut.
A pang of guilt.
She froze.
It was sudden, a feeling she couldn't comprehend. She shook her head, pushing the thought away, convincing herself it was nothing.
But Izuku noticed.
He pulled back slightly, his green eyes narrowing as he studied her. "Malty…?" His voice was softer now, more concerned than usual.
She blinked, forcing a smirk, though it felt... wrong. "It's fine. Everything's fine."
She leaned in to kiss him again, but for some reason, the passion was fading.
Something was off.
Her lips hovered over his, but the hunger she usually felt—the wild, insatiable need to claim him, to own him, was... duller.
She pulled away, sitting up, her breath unsteady.
She didn't understand.
Her body ached for him, her mind screamed at her to continue, but her heart—
Her heart was racing.
Why?
She clutched her chest, expecting to feel the faint glow of the slave mark activating, but… nothing.
Nothing at all.
She knew what the weaker version of the slave seal would do. If she tried to lie, it would glow faintly as a warning. If she tried to resist a direct order, it would react with a light sting.
But right now, there was nothing.
Not even a faint glow.
Which meant… this wasn't the seal.
This was her.
Malty's hands trembled slightly as she stared at Izuku. Why? Why was she hesitating?
She could easily pull him back down, take what she wanted, tease him until he broke, make him hers all over again.
And yet—
She didn't move.
Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes before she even realized it.
She hated this.
She hated whatever this feeling was.
Izuku sat up, his expression shifting. "Malty…?" His voice was different now, less like the wary Shield Hero she toyed with and more… genuine.
She hated that too.
Before she could stop, Izuku's arms wrapped around Malty, pulling her close, his warmth seeping into her body. She melted into his embrace, her cheek pressed against his bare chest, feeling the steady rise and fall of his breath.
For once, she didn't taunt him. Didn't tease, didn't manipulate—she just laid there, her mind a mess of conflicting emotions.
Her fingers gripped his shirt, clinging to him, though she didn't know why.
She felt safe.
And she hated it.
She pulled back, shaking her head. "I'm… not in the mood anymore. I'm sorry."
Izuku blinked, but instead of questioning her, he just leaned in and kissed her gently on the lips. "It's okay."
They broke apart, the moment hanging between them.
Malty slowly inched closer again, hesitantly resting her head under his chest. She didn't know why she did it, why she craved his warmth, why she needed to stay close.
She just… did.
And as she lay there, sleep took her.
Malty's Dream
Malty's dream felt too real.
She was small, her limbs frail and weak, her wings too tiny to fly properly.
She flapped desperately, following behind a woman with long purple hair, her harsh eyes filled with nothing but disdain.
Every time she tried to produce fire, it came out as pathetic, tiny embers, nothing more than weak sparks in the air.
"Again," the woman commanded, her voice sharp and unforgiving.
Malty, no, the little pseudo-dragon, tried again, her body shaking as she inhaled deeply, willing her magic to respond.
She exhaled, but once again, only embers flickered from her mouth.
The whip cracked.
Pain shot through her back, and she yelped, her small body curling inward as she cried out in pain.
"Again."
She tried.
She tried and tried, but every time, it wasn't enough.
The whip came again.
Again. Again. Again.
Tears welled up in her dragon eyes, her tiny claws gripping the dirt beneath her.
"Why? Why can't I do it? Why am I so weak?"
The whip was about to strike once more—
But something blocked it.
A shield.
A green-haired figure stood in front of her, his stance firm and unshakable.
Malty—the dragon—looked up, wide-eyed.
The woman snarled. "What do you think you're doing?"
The green-haired boy didn't respond. Instead, he turned, gently scooping her up in his arms, his touch careful as if she were something precious.
For the first time, she wasn't thrown away.
For the first time, someone held her.
He carried her away, into the woods, shielding her from the harsh words and harsher pain that followed.
And for the first time…
Someone looked at her as if she wasn't filth.
As if she wasn't worthless.
As if she mattered.
Tears spilled from her eyes, her small dragon body curling into his warmth.
It felt nice.
It felt safe.
And then—
She woke up.
Tears ran down Malty's face, her breathing unsteady as the lingering emotions from her dream refused to fade.
A soft touch against her cheek startled her.
She blinked, looking up to see Izuku's face hovering above hers, his thumb gently wiping away her tears.
His touch was careful, almost too careful—like she was something fragile.
Something precious.
Her chest tightened.
Before she could say anything, Izuku smiled softly. "Hey… why don't we take the day off?"
Malty blinked in confusion. "What?"
He sat up, stretching. "Let's not worry about training today. Just relax."
She stared at him, trying to figure out his angle. "…You? Taking a break?"
Izuku chuckled. "Even I need one sometimes."
He stood up, stepping out of the tent, leaving her momentarily alone with her thoughts.
Why was he being so—
Before she could finish that thought, he returned, a small bag in his hands.
She recognized it immediately.
Her heart skipped a beat.
These were artisan tools.
Tools for crafting magical items.
She narrowed her eyes. "What are you doing with those?"
Izuku ignored her question, instead kneeling in front of her and pressing a finger against her lips.
"Just close your eyes," he whispered.
She raised an eyebrow but smirked playfully. "Oh, I see what you're trying to get at, hero."
She closed her eyes and parted her lips, her long tongue slipping out teasingly. "Go ahead. I promise I'll be gentle."
Izuku's face immediately turned red.
"NO—Not that!" He shoved the object into her hands instead.
Malty cracked open one eye, then fully opened them when she felt the weight of something smooth and polished in her palms.
Her smirk vanished.
It was a wand.
A beautiful, handcrafted wand.
The handle was wrapped in fine leather, the wooden shaft polished and adorned with small arcane etchings that shimmered faintly in the firelight. A crystal core was embedded at the tip, glowing faintly with latent magical energy.
She stared at it, her fingers tightening around the grip.
Her throat felt dry.
Izuku rubbed the back of his head. "I, uh… figured you might like it."
She didn't hear him.
Her mind drifted back.
Back to when she was a child, clutching a similar wand, its wood aged and worn from years of desperate use.
She had cherished it.
She had practiced every day, believing that she could become a great magician—that she could one day prove her worth.
But then—
CRACK!
The memory of her mother's face, twisted with disgust.
"You are USELESS."
The sound of wood snapping in her hands.
The feeling of complete and utter failure.
Her fingers clenched around the new wand, her knuckles turning white.
"…Why?" she whispered.
Izuku tilted his head. "Huh?"
"Why did you give me this?" she asked, her voice quieter than she intended.
He shrugged. "Because I think you'd make a great magician."
Malty laughed, a bitter, hollow sound.
"You're wrong," she said, shaking her head. "I'm awful at magic. I always have been."
Izuku frowned. "That's not true."
"You don't know that," she snapped.
He folded his arms, staring at her. "Then prove me wrong."
She froze.
Izuku leaned forward, his green eyes locked onto hers. "You've never had someone actually believe in you, have you?"
Her heart skipped a beat.
"Maybe you sucked at magic before," he continued. "Maybe you were forced to learn under someone who just wanted to tear you down instead of build you up."
She said nothing.
"But that doesn't mean you're weak," Izuku said firmly. "That doesn't mean you can't be better."
Malty swallowed hard, her grip on the wand tightening.
She wanted to laugh at him.
To mock him, to call him a fool, to sneer and say that he was wasting his time.
But the words wouldn't come out.
Instead, all she could do was stare at the wand in her hands.
This time…
She wouldn't let it be taken from her.
Malty stood up abruptly, gripping the wand so tightly that her knuckles turned white.
She stormed out of the tent, her breath coming in shallow bursts as she tried to process what was happening in her head… in her heart.
Izuku's words echoed through her mind.
"Prove me wrong."
Her chest burned, but not with rage.
With something else.
Something she didn't want to name.
Without a word, she lifted her wand, pointing it at a nearby tree.
A familiar warmth surged in her fingertips, a sensation she hated and longed for at the same time.
"Fireball."
A small pulse of fire erupted from the wand, streaking through the night air before colliding with the trunk.
CRACK!
The tree splintered, bark blackening from the impact—but the spell didn't go any further.
It wasn't strong enough.
It was pathetic.
Malty stared at her trembling hand, her grip on the wand loosening.
"I'm not good at magic," she muttered, her voice hollow. "That was such a pathetic spell."
Her heart twisted, a cold, familiar voice whispering at the back of her mind.
"Useless."
"Disgrace."
"Failure."
Then, warmth.
Izuku's hand wrapped around hers, steadying her fingers, his grip firm but gentle.
She flinched, not from discomfort—but because his touch wasn't disgusted.
It was encouraging.
His breath brushed against her ear as he whispered, "Try again."
She turned slightly, her eyes locking onto his.
That damn smile of his—so genuine, so unshakable—was still there.
For a moment, she hesitated.
Then, slowly, she smirked.
"Fine," she whispered back. "I'll try again."
This time, she focused.
She ignored the doubt, the old voices, and the fear of failing again.
She lifted the wand, her pulse steady as she whispered, "Fireball."
BOOM.
The spell struck with twice the force, flames roaring as they engulfed a chunk of the tree, leaving a blackened scar on the wood.
Malty's eyes widened.
Izuku chuckled, his grip still on hers. "Better."
She felt something stir inside her, something she hadn't felt in a long time.
It wasn't a victory.
It wasn't manipulation.
It wasn't power over someone else.
It was…
Satisfaction.
She turned, grinning, but then her expression faltered as she realized—
Her heart was racing.
It wasn't from casting the spell.
It was from him.
Izuku let go of her hand, stepping back. "See? You can do this, my future queen."
Malty's breath hitched.
She should've laughed.
She should've called him an idiot.
She should've rolled her eyes and teased him mercilessly.
But she didn't.
Because, for the first time in her life…
Someone actually meant it.
Malty turned the wand in her hands, examining its craftsmanship.
"Not bad," she admitted, twirling it between her fingers before grinning slyly. "But… when did you even have time to make this?"
Izuku shrugged, rubbing the back of his head. "I got the tools a while ago and have been practicing every night, pushing myself further. Learning from the books I scanned."
Malty's eyes widened slightly before she smirked.
"Oh, so while I've been sleeping, you've been toiling away in the night like a little craftsman?"
"Something like that," Izuku said, crossing his arms.
Her lips curled before she suddenly lunged forward, grabbing his face and pressing a hot kiss against his lips.
Izuku's eyes widened, his breath hitching as she took her time, teasing him with her tongue, letting the kiss linger just long enough to make his mind foggy.
Then, she broke away, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
"You're still a cheapskate, though," she teased, laughing as she flicked his forehead.
Izuku grumbled, rubbing his head. "Are you seriously complaining about a free wand?"
She chuckled, spinning the wand in her hands before tucking it into her belt.
"You know what?" she mused. "I actually feel… good."
Izuku raised an eyebrow.
She sighed dramatically, placing a hand on her chest. "You wouldn't understand, but for the first time in forever, I feel like I actually—"
She paused, searching for the right word.
"—matter."
Izuku stared at her, surprised by her honesty.
She caught his gaze, then rolled her eyes. "Ugh, don't look at me like that. I don't need your pity."
A smile curled on her lips as she nudged him. "But if you have anything else to give me, I might start expecting gifts from my darling craftsman."
Izuku snorted before reaching into his bag, pulling out another object.
Malty's eyes narrowed as she studied it.
"A… handle?" she muttered, picking it up.
It was a smooth, metallic hilt, but there was no blade.
"It's a magic sword," Izuku explained. "It's just a hilt for now. If you channel magic into it, it should create a blade. In theory."
Her eyebrows rose.
"Oh, so this is experimental work, huh?" she teased.
"Just try it," Izuku said, rolling his eyes.
Malty grinned, gripping the handle tightly.
She closed her eyes, focusing her magic.
A flicker of fire burst from the hilt, forming a thin, glowing blade—but it was short.
Too short.
More of a dagger than a sword.
Malty clicked her tongue, staring at the small fireblade with mild disappointment.
"Hmm… not quite what I was expecting," she admitted. "But I'll make it work until you fix it."
Izuku sighed. "I'll refine it later. It needs more magical conductivity."
She twirled the fire dagger in her hand, testing the weight before smirking.
"You're turning out to be quite useful, hero."
She suddenly leaned into his ear, her breath warm against his skin.
"Tonight," she whispered, her voice husky, "you're gonna have a lot of fun."
Izuku gulped.
She giggled, pulling away with a wicked grin.
"But first…" Malty stretched, her hips swaying as she turned away. "We're going on a shopping spree."
She threw him a playful glance over her shoulder.
"We need to make sure we're all equipped before the next wave hits."
Izuku let out a deep sigh, running a hand down his face.
"Great," he muttered. "There goes my money."
Malty laughed, wrapping an arm around him.
"Oh, don't be so grumpy, hero. Think of it as an investment in your favorite future queen."
Izuku just shook his head, knowing full well he was never going to win against her.
Raphtalia perked up as she overheard their conversation.
"You're going shopping?" she asked excitedly, her fluffy ears twitching.
Malty and Izuku glanced at each other before smirking.
"Well, well," Malty teased, ruffling the raccoon girl's hair. "You're finally taking an interest in something other than training?"
Raphtalia huffed, swatting her hand away. "I just want to come along!"
Izuku chuckled, crossing his arms. "Alright, but stay close. We don't want any trouble."
Malty sighed dramatically, stepping away as she slipped on her ring.
Her vibrant red hair darkened, shifting to midnight black.
Her signature human features twisted, replaced by sleek cat ears that flicked at the tips and a long feline tail that swayed playfully behind her.
With her disguise complete, she smirked.
"Call me Meowlty while we're out," she purred, flicking her tail. "Wouldn't want people recognizing me, after all."
Raphtalia stared, her eyes wide. "You really look like a demi-human…Creepy." She whispered out the last word.
Malty grinned, lowering her ears playfully. "A convincing one, huh?"
Izuku just shook his head, adjusting his cloak. "Alright, let's get going before she starts getting too into character."
Exploring the Market
The streets of the city were bustling with activity, filled with merchants shouting deals, adventurers bartering for weapons, and children running through the crowd with sweets in hand.
The trio moved through the crowd with ease, Meowlty walking ahead with her usual grace and confidence, while Raphtalia clung to Izuku's side, taking in all the new sights.
It didn't take long before Meowlty dragged them toward a colorful stall selling sweets.
"Alright, hero, buy me something," she demanded, nudging Izuku's arm.
"Buy it yourself," he muttered, glancing over at the vendor.
Meowlty pouted, her cat ears drooping. "Come oooon, I'm your precious companion, aren't I?"
Izuku rolled his eyes but handed over a few silver coins.
The vendor, an older woman with a kind smile, handed over a stick of glazed honey treats.
Meowlty took a bite, her tail flicking in delight. "Mmm~! I knew you'd cave."
Raphtalia, meanwhile, hesitated before tugging at Izuku's sleeve.
"U-Um… can I have one too?" she asked shyly.
Izuku sighed, pulling out another silver. "Yeah, yeah, here."
Raphtalia's face brightened, and she nibbled happily on her treat, her fluffy tail wagging.
Meowlty snickered, elbowing Izuku. "Aren't you just the sweetest little hero, spoiling your girls?"
"Shut up," he grumbled, turning away.
After satisfying Meowlty's sweet tooth, Izuku led them toward a shop specializing in magical materials.
Shelves were lined with rare herbs, enchanted stones, and crafting tools.
Izuku grabbed several key materials, powdered mana crystals, alchemy ingredients, and reinforcement runes, all while calculating what he could afford.
"Planning on making something special?" Meowlty asked, leaning over his shoulder.
Izuku nodded, grabbing a bundle of parchment. "I'm going to make some enchanted accessories. Maybe some defensive charms."
Meowlty hummed, pretending to be disinterested but watching closely.
"You've really become quite the craftsman," she teased. "First a wand, now this? You sure you're not secretly a mage?"
Izuku chuckled, placing the materials in his bag. "I just like being prepared."
As they left the shop, Meowlty's golden eyes gleamed with amusement.
Raphtalia happily munched on her sweet, unaware of the scheming smirk on the cat-girl's face.
"Well, hero," Meowlty purred, linking her arm with his, "Now that we've spent all your money, what's next?"
Izuku sighed heavily, already regretting bringing her along.
"We still need weapons and armor," he muttered.
Meowlty grinned. "Ooooh, now we're talking!"
Raphtalia perked up, her tail flicking excitedly. "Maybe I can get something better than this sword!"
Meowlty glanced at her, her smirk growing. "Oh, little raccoon wants an upgrade? Well then, let's see what our darling hero can provide."
Izuku just groaned, already expecting to leave the market with empty pockets.
The blacksmith
Izuku, Meowlty, and Raphtalia stepped into the familiar heat of the blacksmith's forge. The scent of burning coal and hot metal filled the air, and the sound of hammers striking steel echoed through the shop.
The burly blacksmith, Erhard, looked up from his work, wiping sweat from his brow.
"Back again?" he grunted, eyeing Izuku. "What do you need this time, Shield Hero?"
Izuku gestured to Raphtalia. "She needs a proper weapon and armor."
Raphtalia stood up straight, clutching her current, worn-out sword with both hands.
Erhard nodded, stepping forward and inspecting her gear with a critical eye.
"Yeah, that's about as useful as a butter knife now," he muttered. He then turned to his selection of weapons, running his hand over several high-quality blades before stopping at a sleek katana.
"This one's made of folded steel, light but durable," he explained, pulling it from the rack and handing it to Raphtalia.
The raccoon girl hesitantly gripped the hilt, giving it a few test swings.
Her eyes lit up.
"It's… perfect," she breathed, feeling the balance and sharpness of the blade.
Erhard smirked. "Figured you'd like that one. As for armor…"
He turned to a set of leather-reinforced plating, strong enough to absorb a hit, yet flexible enough for agile movements.
"This should do," he said, helping her try it on.
The armor fit snugly, its dark leather and steel plates complementing her small but growing frame.
Raphtalia twirled once, testing the movement.
Meowlty leaned in, grinning. "Ooooh, look at you, raccoon. Finally looking like a real warrior."
Raphtalia huffed, crossing her arms. "I was already a warrior!"
Meowlty just chuckled, flicking the girl's ear.
Izuku sighed, pulling out his pouch. "How much?"
Erhard scratched his beard. "For the katana and armor? 300 silver."
Izuku winced, but he counted out the coins, handing them over.
Meowlty happily pocketed a piece of candy, clearly enjoying his suffering.
Raphtalia, however, bowed deeply. "Thank you, Izuku! I'll fight even harder from now on!"
Izuku smiled faintly, patting her head. "I know you will."
Meowlty rolled her eyes. "Ugh, enough with the mushy stuff. What about you, hero? Still planning to run around in rags?"
Izuku shrugged, crossing his arms. "Armor's pointless for me. My defense is already high."
Both girls stared at him.
Meowlty raised an eyebrow. "Seriously?"
Raphtalia tilted her head. "But… shouldn't you still wear something just in case?"
Izuku sighed, rubbing his temple. "Fine, fine, I'll buy something light."
Erhard chuckled, already expecting this outcome. "Good choice. I can forge you something custom, lightweight but reinforced. Won't weigh you down but will add some protection."
Izuku nodded. "How long will it take?"
"A couple of days," Erhard replied, grabbing a measuring tape. "Now hold still while I get your measurements."
Meowlty leaned in close, her tail flicking playfully. "Ooooh, getting stripped down for the blacksmith? Don't worry, hero, I'll close my eyes~"
"Shut up," Izuku muttered, gritting his teeth as she smirked.
Erhard smirked as well, jotting down his numbers. "Alright, a 150 silver deposit now, the rest when it's done."
Izuku handed over the coins, knowing full well that his wallet was in pain.
Meowlty patted his shoulder. "Don't worry, hero. Money is temporary… but a well-dressed man? That's priceless."
Izuku just groaned, already regretting agreeing to shop with her.
Izuku walked out of the city with the two girls trailing behind him. The journey back to camp was quiet, save for the occasional chirping of birds and the rustling of leaves in the wind. The sun had begun its slow descent, casting an orange glow over the treetops.
As they arrived at their small, makeshift camp, Izuku stretched his arms.
"Alright," he said, rolling his shoulders. "I'm going to check on our fishing traps. We'll need food for tonight."
He turned, heading towards the river, leaving Malty and Raphtalia alone at the campfire.
The moment he disappeared into the distance, Malty shed her disguise, her fiery red hair spilling down her shoulders as she stretched lazily.
Raphtalia hesitated for a moment before taking a deep breath, gathering her courage.
"Can I ask you something?" she said softly.
Malty barely glanced at her, idly poking at the fire with a stick. "What?"
Raphtalia shifted uncomfortably, her hands clasped together. "I wanted to ask… if I could have one night with him."
Silence.
Malty froze, her fingers twitching ever so slightly around the stick in her hand. Slowly, she turned her head, her emerald-green eyes flashing dangerously.
"...Excuse me?"
Raphtalia gulped, her voice barely above a whisper. "I… I think I've fallen in love with him."
Malty stared at her. For a moment, her expression was unreadable. Then, a slow smirk crept onto her lips.
"You think you've fallen in love?" she echoed, tilting her head mockingly. "How cute."
Her voice was deceptively sweet, but her eyes were cold as ice.
Raphtalia, emboldened by her emotions, pressed on. "I know what I feel," she said, her cheeks flushed. "When I'm around him, my heart beats faster. I feel safe. When we were together that night… it felt right. Like I belong by his-."
A sharp slap cut her off.
Raphtalia held her face in surprise, as the pain stung her face.
Her fingers twitched, and for a fleeting moment, she imagined wrapping them around the raccoon girl's throat.
She dares to say that in front of me?
She dares to think she has a place beside him?
The princess inhaled sharply, clenching her fists to stop the violent urge bubbling in her gut.
"Let me make something clear," she said, her voice silk and venom. "He belongs to me. Nobody else."
Raphtalia stiffened, her ears lowering.
Malty leaned in, her breath hot against the demi-human's face.
"I let you play with him once," she continued, her tone mockingly condescending. "A little fun. A little… indulgence. But that's over. You are privy to a part of him. But nothing more."
Her nails dug into the dirt, her rage simmering beneath the surface.
"If I so much as hear," she whispered, her tone dropping to a deadly chill, "that you so much as accidentally brush against his manhood, I will personally cut your hand off."
Raphtalia's breath hitched, her body frozen.
Malty's smile did not reach her eyes.
"And if you ask me again… I will drag you to a tree and hang you from it, you filthy demi-human."
Her green eyes gleamed with wicked satisfaction as she watched Raphtalia flinch at her words, the girl instinctively scooting away, her tail curling close to her body.
"I… I'm sorry," Raphtalia whispered, her voice trembling.
Malty sighed dramatically, tossing a strand of red hair over her shoulder as if the entire conversation had been a mild inconvenience.
"Good girl," she murmured, leaning back on her palms.
For a moment, silence settled between them.
But Malty's mind was racing.
The way Raphtalia had spoken about him, the longing in her voice…
Malty felt something twist inside her.
Something she didn't like.
She loves him…?
She clenched her fists.
Then what do I…
Her breathing hitched, and before she could stop herself, a frustrated scream tore from her throat, echoing through the camp.
Raphtalia jumped, her ears flattening against her head.
Malty took a shaky breath, running a hand through her hair. "I'm going to my tent," she muttered, standing abruptly. "I need to cool off."
She didn't wait for a response, storming off into the dark fabric of her tent, flipping the flap shut behind her.
Inside, she threw herself onto her makeshift bed, staring at the ceiling.
Her chest felt tight.
She gritted her teeth, her fingers curling around the wand at her waist.
She hissed, gripping it tightly.
Why… Why is he so nice?
Her father had spoiled her, given her everything she ever wanted, made her feel like a queen before she even had the throne.
And yet, it wasn't enough.
It was never enough.
She could still remember the sting of her mother's slap the day she lost her right to the throne.
The way her father tried to comfort her, filling the void with expensive gifts and empty promises.
But it hadn't filled the hole.
Nothing ever had.
She squeezed her eyes shut, trying to block out the memory.
She thought back to Izuku, to the way he smiled at her, the way he treated her as an equal, the way he challenged her without fear.
The way he had trusted her… even after everything she had done.
It made her sick.
It made her feel warm.
It made her feel afraid.
Her fingers trembled as she gripped the wand harder.
He should hate me. He should want me dead. But instead…
Instead, he looked at her like she was worth something.
And she hated that.
Because the moment she let herself believe it, she would be weak.
She hissed, sitting up abruptly, forcing those thoughts away.
"No," she whispered. "I don't need him."
She gritted her teeth.
"I don't need anyone."
She repeated it over and over, trying to convince herself.
Trying to drown out the tiny, treacherous voice in her head.
The one that whispered…
"Then why does it hurt?"
Izuku returned to camp, the smell of freshly caught fish filling the air as he adjusted his grip on the bundle in his hands. The atmosphere was off.
Earlier, they had been laughing, teasing, enjoying the success of their hunt, but now?
The camp felt quiet. Too quiet.
He looked around, noticing that both Malty and Raphtalia were in their separate tents. That wasn't like them. Malty would normally be lounging arrogantly, making some offhand comment about her future kingdom, while Raphtalia would be sitting by the fire, quietly enjoying the meal.
Instead, only Raphtalia came out when he called.
Something was wrong.
She hesitated as she accepted her food, and Izuku finally noticed the red mark on her cheek.
His eyes darkened.
"Malty."
He handed Raphtalia her food and sighed.
"I'll take care of this."
He took one of the grilled fish from the fire, skewered on a stick, and turned towards Malty's tent.
Malty's Tent
The moment Izuku stepped inside, a blanket flew at his face.
"Go away!" Malty snapped, her voice filled with rage.
Izuku caught the blanket effortlessly and tossed it aside, calmly stepping closer.
She sat on her bedroll, arms crossed, eyes blazing with fury. Her body was tense, her fists clenched so tight that her nails dug into her palms.
He held out the fish.
She glared at it like it was poison.
"Eat." His voice was firm but gentle.
Malty's lips curled in disgust.
"Why don't you take that to your filthy demi-human slut instead?" she hissed, venom dripping from every word.
Izuku didn't flinch. He didn't move. He just kept holding the fish toward her, unwavering.
That only infuriated her more.
With a snarl, she slapped the food away, sending it tumbling onto the floor of the tent.
"Just leave me alone!" she screamed. "Get out!"
And then, she snapped.
In a blur, Malty grabbed his collar, pushing him onto his back, straddling him with a furious scowl.
Her hands trembled as they curled around his neck, pressing down with all her strength.
"Say something!" she demanded, her voice raw, filled with confusion and anger.
Izuku just stared at her.
His calm, steady gaze did something to her, something she couldn't explain.
Tears welled up in her eyes.
She dug her nails into his skin, clawing at him, hitting him, slapping his chest, but his defense was too high.
Her attacks did nothing.
And yet… she still kept going.
"Why?! Why am I feeling this way?!" she screamed.
Her body shook as she clutched his tunic, her knuckles turning white.
"I'm not supposed to care about you!" she cried.
"I'm not supposed to care about anyone!"
Her vision blurred as more tears spilled down her cheeks.
"You were supposed to be my puppet!" she choked out, her voice breaking.
Her breathing was ragged, her entire body trembling.
"Why do I feel like this?" she whispered.
Then—strong arms wrapped around her.
Malty froze.
Izuku pulled her close, pressing her against his chest, holding her gently.
He didn't fight back.
He didn't push her away.
He just… held her.
Her entire world stopped.
"You're just like me," Izuku murmured.
Malty's body stiffened.
"When I was little," he continued, his voice quiet and steady, "I saw a hero on a video… saving so many people. And it was after I had already been told I didn't have a Quirk. That I was… different."
She sniffled, her breath hitching.
"I needed someone there," he said. "I needed my mom to tell me it was okay. That I could still be a hero."
He let out a shaky sigh.
"But instead… I grew up in a world where nobody believed in me. I failed again. And again. And again."
His grip around her tightened slightly.
"And then… I met my personal hero," he said, his voice hollow. "And he tore down my dreams in an instant."
Malty clenched her teeth, her fingers gripping his tunic tighter.
She didn't know why, but she understood.
She felt the same.
"Nobody believed in me," Izuku continued. "Nobody thought I could be anything."
His eyes softened as he looked at her.
"I take it… you know what that feels like."
Her breath caught in her throat.
Her hands trembled.
He… understood?
He knew what it was like to be tossed aside.
To be called useless.
To be nothing.
She pulled back slightly, glaring at him.
"Why?" she demanded. "Why tell me all this?"
Izuku smiled sadly.
"Because I wish," he murmured, "back then, someone had my back."
His thumb brushed against her cheek, wiping away a tear.
"Someone who cared," he whispered.
"Someone who encouraged me."
Malty's chest tightened painfully.
Her body felt weak.
She tried to push him away, but her strength was gone.
Her anger was gone.
All that was left…
…was the realization that she had never felt this way before.
Her entire life had been about climbing, scheming, manipulating.
But here he was, not judging her.
Not calling her evil.
Not condemning her.
He just… held her.
And for the first time in her life… she didn't feel alone.
"Tell me why," she whispered, her voice shaking.
Izuku smiled at her.
"Because…"
He sighed.
"I've grown… attached."
Malty felt her heart stop.
Her eyes widened, her mouth slightly parting in shock.
Attached?
He wasn't saying he loved her.
But…
But he… cared.
And that…
That terrified her.
Tears ran down her cheeks again, but she didn't know why.
She hated it.
She hated feeling vulnerable.
She wanted to laugh. To mock him. To call him a fool.
But all she could do…
…was bury her face into his chest.
And cry.
Izuku held her gently, his arms steady, as if afraid she would break if he squeezed too tight. Malty's breath hitched, her face turning red.
She hated this.
She hated feeling this vulnerable, this exposed.
But… she didn't hate his warmth.
For the first time in her life, she wasn't faking an emotion. She wasn't acting.
She lifted her head slowly, meeting his eyes.
His gaze was calm, patient, full of something she couldn't place—something that made her chest tighten painfully.
"You should sleep now," he said softly.
She hesitated, then nodded.
"Yes… but…"
Her stomach suddenly growled loudly, breaking the tension.
Her face turned even redder.
Izuku blinked before chuckling.
She slapped his arm, flustered. "Shut up!"
His laughter only grew.
"Okay, okay!" He raised his hands in surrender. "I'll go grab some more fish."
He turned, crawling out of the tent, but just as he reached the entrance—
"Izuku," she whispered.
He froze.
Slowly, he looked back at her.
Her green eyes softened as she stared at him.
"I don't care what people say," she murmured. "You're a hero. In this world… and in your old one."
His breath caught in his throat.
"I just wish people could see that."
Izuku's heart pounded.
Her words hit him deeper than he expected.
"I… um…" He stumbled over his words, his face turning scarlet.
Malty giggled, finally wiping away the last of her tears.
She smirked. "Look at you. The big bad Shield Hero is speechless."
He grumbled, scratching his cheek. "Just—shut up. I'm getting the food."
She chuckled as he quickly escaped the tent, her smirk lingering.
"Idiot."
But…
Her chest felt lighter.
When Izuku returned, he carried a freshly grilled fish on a stick.
Malty took it from him, sitting cross-legged while she ate, but then—she moved.
She climbed onto his lap, settling herself comfortably against him, her hips shifting just enough to tease.
Izuku tensed.
"Are you serious?" he grumbled, trying—and failing—to hide his reaction.
Malty smirked, taking a slow, deliberate bite of her fish.
"Oh? You seem excited," she teased, grinding just a little.
Izuku groaned, his hands gripping her thighs tightly.
"You're the worst."
She chuckled. "I know."
But then, her playfulness faded slightly.
"Give me your hand," she said suddenly.
He blinked. "Huh?"
"Just give it to me."
Izuku sighed, offering his empty hand.
Malty reached out, intertwining their fingers, locking them together.
"I just… want to do this for tonight," she murmured, her voice quieter than usual.
Izuku squeezed her hand gently.
They sat there, just holding hands, feeling the warmth between them.
Malty sighed, leaning into his chest.
"But tomorrow morning," she whispered, her smirk returning. "I'll fulfill my promise."
Izuku grumbled. "Of course you will."
She laughed softly, and for once, it wasn't forced.
For once, she didn't feel like she was playing a role.
They sat in comfortable silence, their fingers still intertwined, before finally lying down together.
Author's Notes:
Hey everyone! I appreciate all the support so far. If you have any suggestions for potential harem members, feel free to drop them in the reviews! Obviously, we've already got two girls, Malty and Raphtalia, but I'm open to expanding Izuku's relationships in interesting ways.
Potential Candidates:
My Hero Academia Girls: They would be reincarnated into this world with new roles. Since most of MHA's world was destroyed, even villains could appear, likely as Demi-Humans, elves, or other fantasy races.
Other Fictional Girls: If you have a favorite anime, game, or manga heroine, let me know! I'll find a way to incorporate them in a way that fits the setting.
I also want to keep a balance, while Malty is manipulative and possessive, and Raphtalia is sweet and supportive, each new girl should bring something unique to the dynamic.
If you think some spicy scenes are too much, let me know! If you want more, I'm fine with that too.
Let me know your thoughts, feedback, and suggestions in the reviews! I love hearing from you guys.