The Rising Of the Shield Hero!
You and your step-brother Naofumi had never been particularly close, even as you grew up. Your mother's attention had always favored Naofumi, much to your annoyance. Despite disliking your brother, you find yourself su...
"What, they get to pick us?" I thought to myself, growing increasingly anxious. I was undoubtedly in for a ride. I had already caused a scene twice. Who in their right mind would choose me as a travel companion?
My metal stick for a weapon, definitely wasn't doing me any favors, either. It was unlikely that I would be anyone's choice.
As the selection process finally seemed to be over, I turned my back, not surprised that none of them had picked me. When I turned to glance at Naofumi, I saw that he, too, had been passed over. Not a single person had chosen either of us. This was disappointing, but I had a feeling it was going to turn out this way.
I couldn't help but wonder why Naofumi hadn't been chosen either - after all, he had the shield, which was undoubtedly a useful weapon. It would have been a great choice to pick him, yet nobody had.
In terms of combat, a shield can be quite useful - in fact, it is a must-have for some. During fights, it serves as a protective barrier for other party members, allowing them to focus on the offensive while the shield-bearer watches their backs and keeps them safe. It's certainly a choice worthy of consideration.
"These people - could they be idiots?" I wondered, shaking my head in disbelief. It would have been great to join Naofumi's team, since my metal stick, useless as it was, would not have held up in a Wave battle. However, due to the nature of the Cardinal Weapons and their tendency to slow down their Bearers' growth when used together, that was an impossibility.
Suddenly, I remembered the book that had brought us to this world 'The Four Cardinal Weapons'. In this world, only four weapons existed that fit that description, and my metal stick was not one of them, which meant that...
I suddenly realized that I would not have to worry about hindering Naofumi's weapon from gaining power by joining his party! The king had previously mentioned that I was not even meant to be in this world in the first place.
As I pieced together the puzzle, Naofumi became quite agitated. "And I should go off on my own just because of that?" he shouted."I'm the Shield Hero! you said-" But before he could finish, I tapped him on the shoulder and said, "Let's go on this journey together then..." My sudden offer left my brother stunned, and speechless.
"Did no one inform you?" The king's adviser was prepared to say something but I interrupted him. "You stated clearly that I was not intended to be here, and there were no records of a fifth cardinal weapon, is that correct?" I inquired, glaring at the adviser, who seemingly had something to add.
"I believe you understand my predicament," I stated in a stern tone. After a lengthy pause, the king sighed and assented, "Very well, does anyone else desire to accompany the Shield Hero and Sir Y/N?" A young woman raised her hand, it was the maiden whom Naofumi had previously had his eyes on.
"Hero, might I join the Shield Hero on his adventure?" the girl inquired, which caused Naofumi's cheeks to flush with color. I started to protest, saying, "I'm sorry, I don't think that's possible-" but I was interrupted by Naofumi, who excitedly blurted out, "Of course!"
"Wait, you're okey with that?" Motoyasu inquired in surprise. "Uhm, are you insane or something?" I retorted when Naofumi abruptly bunted me on the noggin, making me wince in discomfort.
"What the hell is wrong with this jerk bonking me like that?!" I thought as myself as the king cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. "Then so be it, Sir Naofumi, you must find your own allies to augment your ranks," the king stated, turning to Naofumi. "What, uh, ok," Naofumi stated, stammering.
"We shall provide each hero with monthly stipends, but those of Naofumi shall be substantially larger than those of the other heroes," the king stated prior to servants bearing pouches of coins arriving.
"Your Majesty, mightn't I be entitled to a stipend of my own? Whilst I am allied with Naofumi, my status as a summoned hero remains unchanged. One never knows, perhaps I shall choose to leave Naofumi and establish my own party," I stated, meeting the king's gaze. He seemed taken aback by my request.
"You impertinent imp!" the adviser spat, shooting me an irate look. "What's the big deal? Regardless of whether I'm one of the four cardinal heroes, it's an irrefutable fact that you brought me here. Acknowledge your obligation!" I snarled, glowering at the adviser. "Very well..." the king mumbled and, with that, acquiesced.
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As Naofumi and the other Three Heroes bid goodbyes, I found myself frustrated by their drawn-out farewells. "What a waste of time," I said, rolling my eyes. Naofumi, for one, seemed unbothered by my sourness.
"Hold up, Sir heroes!" A girl with flowing scarlet hair cried out. "Oh, Almost forgot she's coming with us." I muttered to myself, my thoughts having drifted elsewhere until her presence became known.
"Forgive my lack of introductions! My name is Myne Sofia," the girl with the flowing scarlet hair said, giving a pleasant smile. Naofumi turned his attention to her. "Greetings, Myne!" he said, his face slightly reddened. I continued walking, saying a simple "Nice to meet you." while trying to pay her no further mind.
"Pay no mind to my little brother; he's quite the annoying fellow," Naofumi said to Myne, offering her reassurance. 'Why didn't I just stick with Ren or Itsuki again?' I thought to myself.
(A/N: That will be the end! Look forward for the next chapter's ik you all can't wait for the betrayed scene but it might take at least 2 more)
