What, why, and how am I doing this: fav.me/d7zdjk4
Index
Chapter 63: pastebin.com/8c8vKrni
Chapter 64: pastebin.com/xZ7KSys7
Chapter 65: pastebin.com/e5xAmgdr
Chapter 66: pastebin.com/DybPD9h0
Chapter 63: Shadow
We are travelling south along the border, searching for any gaps within the border patrol.
Motoyasu is extremely annoying. He's been chasing us ever since.
There hasn't been any situations where we were truly in danger, since that one back at the border thanks to Firo's swift running.
The strange thing is that there has been no sign of either Ren or Itsuki.
Did they give up? Or are they laying an ambush somewhere?
In the first place trying to accuse me of brainwashing was irrational.
Did they lose interest in this event and go back to levelling?
I would understand if Ren gave up since he was already sceptical, but was it good luck for us that Itsuki is also nowhere to be found?
On the contrary, Motoyasu is way too persistent.
Either way, it is fortunate since his attacks aren't as strong as Ren's and he doesn't have any ranged attacks like Itsuki.
To be honest Motoyasu seems more interested in Firo than actually bringing the second princess back.
Still problems are piling up non stop......
"What should we do?......"
It is irresponsible to just pass everyday being disgruntled, I must consider what we should do.
Border patrol is too strict. Isn't there somewhere we can sneak over?
Living as a fugitive everyday won't solve anything, and my life is over when the next wave arrives.
In this case, recklessly crossing the border may not actually be a bad idea.
As it stands our names will never be cleared. Those chasing me may also avoid Silt Welt.
That night we discussed our course of action over the camp fire.
Since Firo is stupid, she is not listening.
The second princess and Raphtalia had some reaction, but that was to be expected.
"It might be a little tough, but if we want to break through, then here is our best bet."
It would be hard to pull off. But, as long as the other heroes don't interfere my defence should be able to break though.
"You're right, we won't last if we continue escaping like this......"
"Yeah......"
"Mel-chan!"
Firo returns to her human form and starts playing with the second princess.
Kan!
Hm? I heard a strange sound coming from the scruff of my neck.
What? It's not painful but......
I immediately turn around, and see a needle fall down.
"Master, enemies!"
"What?"
Was that a blow dart just now?
Or was it something Itsuki fired?
I cannot confirm anything due visibility since it's night time.
"I didn't notice until he attacked."
"What?"
Bofun! A bunch of darts fly out of nowhere and Firo expands her wings to cover the second princess.
Can Itsuki even fire so many at once?
No, Leaving that aside!
The main usage of blow darts are to apply poisons. Firo and I will be fine due to our poison resistance, but it will be dangerous if Raphtalia or the second princess gets hit.
I have no idea what kind of poison they are using either.
If I know what poison they are using I can make an antidote.
There were a bunch of antidotes in the wagon and carriage too......
But I can't treat anyone in these conditions!
"Ah......"
I turn my gaze to Raphtalia. At that moment a blowgun dart aimed at her appears.
"Air St-
I shout for Air Strike Shield in haste, but I don't know if I can make it.
Immediately, a high-pitched screech is heard and the dart was stopped.
"That was dangerous degozaru."
Suddenly, someone in jet-black clothes appears and defends Raphtalia.
His face is covered by cloth so I can't see it.
I can't tell if his voice is male or female. Who is that? A ninja?
Degozaru?
"Hurry up and flee degojaru!
In the shadows of the trees and bushes fighting could be heard.
"Hero of the Shield-dono, leave this to us and run away degozaru. Wait for me after you have escaped, I want to talk with you degozaru."
"What is going on!"
"There is no time to explain right now, I'll do it later degozaru!"
"Tch! Firo, Raphtalia, Second princess!"
"Okay~"
"Yeah"
"U-understood!"
While riding on Firo, blow darts were flying around us.
"Do you know who that person was?"
"I think so, that is probably my mother's secret guard corps......"
Explains the second princess while we were getting away.
"Really?"
"Yeah. I know the person who helped Raphtalia-san. She is my mother's body double."
"Now that I think about it, her way of speaking is familiar."
Is she that woman I passed in the hallway after parting with trash?
Her behaviour and appearance left a strong impression.
"So what exactly is going on? We got ambushed, but we have no idea who did it."
I would say it was Itsuki, but that guy should not be capable of such things.
Judging by his character, he would confront me head on.
"Assassination corps of the country......maybe"
"There's an assassination corps?"
Now that's dangerous. Well, places where the nobles and kings completely trust each other do not exist.
That leads to a great deal of problems being handled behind closed doors.
It's quite simple actually.
"Though in reality they are the same as the secret guard corps......"
"You guys have separate assassination corps?"
"......I don't know"
"I see......"
I guess there's no choice but to hear from someone who knows.
After running a certain distance on Firo, we prepared and waited in case of more enemies.
"Hmm?"
Firo reacts immediately.
"Here it comes."
Suddenly, the ninja-like person appears in front of me.
"Sorry for the wait degozaruna"
"Ah don't worry about it. Thanks to you we got away safely."
"First of all, I should introduce myself degozaruga...... Have you already heard from princess Melty degozaruka?"
"I heard you are a body double. And you are either from the secret guard crops or some assassination unit."
"That is not entirely correct degozaru. We are the special duty corps of the country, and our aliases is [Shadow] degozaru."
"I see."
"By the way, I do not have a name degozaru. I believe Shadow shall suffice degozaru."
Shadow huh...... Trying to sound cool?
I wonder if it's just the difference between my world and the inhabitants of this world.
Since there are ninjas I'm reminded of the Showa era.
"So, who did you fight?"
"Shadows of the country and church degozaru."
"Aren't you from the same organization?"
"The organization is not a monolith degozaruyo. There are factions within the organization that are fighting each other degozaru."
There are so many things wrong with that but I'll refrain from commenting for now.....
"Why did you help us?"
Since that's what I'm most curious about I'll ask.
I have a few guesses, but none are concrete.
"I cannot answer that degozaru."
"I see. Are you sworn to secrecy?"
"All I will say is that this one works as princess Melty's guard degozaru."
"I don't believe that."
She didn't even show up when the second princess as being attacked.
"I did not appear because I knew the Hero of the Shield-dono could protect her degozaru."
"You bastard......"
That means she knew but stayed silent.
Although, she seems fairly competent.
"Originally I was somewhere else with Her Majesty the Queen but I was ordered to watch over Hero of the Shield-dono degozaru."
The self-named Shadow shows a map and points.
What she was pointing at was the neighbouring country to our south west.
The opposite direction of Silt Welt.
"Right now her Majesty the Queen is there degozaru. Since this country is in the opposite direction of Silt Welt where Hero of the Shield-dono is escaping to, patrols are scarce degozaru."
"Oh....."
For some reason, I feel that if I run away to the country to Demi-humans I would receive some recognition.
It occurred to me that there may be something in the country of Demi-humans that believes in the shield, similar to how this country believes in the Three Heroes Church.
I can probably safely go into exile there in cases like this, and it would be very bad for Trash.
Though since they are putting so many resources to guard the border that it makes it impossible to break through.
This distance can be covered by Firo in two and a half weeks, but it will be hard to advance since the other heroes are anticipating it.
Even though we have to take a detour I want to go.
"This latest case has many things behind it degozaru. I will cooperate with Hero of the Shield-dono as much as possible degozaru."
"What do you mean?"
"Right now the higher-ups of the Three Heroes Church are discussing about the activities of Hero of the Shield-dono degozaru. So I had no choice but to move and inform you degozaruyo."
"Hmm.....So in other words, they had a reason to maintain that farce of claiming I have the power to brainwash."
My activities recently consisted mostly of selling medicine and helping people who were in trouble.
However, as a result of those actions I solved problems that the other heroes have caused.
It seems that due to these events, people are starting to question the legend of the Hero of the Shield spread by the church.
If they can prove that I am capable of large-scale brainwashing, then the people's faith in the Church would be restored.
But won't it also mean that if I can prove my innocence the Three Heroes Church will receive a devastating blow?
"What should we do degozaru? If you are planning on going to Silt Welt, would you require help degozaruka?
"That's......"
Giving someone else a difficult job and relaxing myself is not one of my hobbies.
Even if I do just escape, when the wave comes I'll be summoned into the midst of enemies.
That's very inconvenient.
The Church, The Bitch, and the Trash king will all want to capture and torture me.
Rather than going into exile recklessly, and then getting summoned into a trap, this might be more effective.
If this goes well my remaining days here will be easy.
But......
"What would the queen gain from helping me? The Three Heroes Church may get destroyed."
"I cannot answer that degozaru."
I'm only giving answers to this queen's shadow and not actually receiving any answers.
Though she is certainly the queen's subordinate.
The second princess is someone we both need to protect, and since she is a subordinate of the queen, I cannot do anything that might disadvantage her.
As far as I am concerned meeting the Queen would be more beneficial for me.
Frankly, I cannot see what the queen's goal is.
From what I can make out of the second princess's speech and behaviour, her goal would be to prevent wars between this country and another.
Furthermore, she understands what is happening to me, due to the deep-rooted and crazy legends in this country about the Devil of the Shield.
The shadow also said "I want to cooperate".
It seems the queen does not share the same views as the Three Heroes Church.
That is just a safe line though......
Hmm...... Perhaps she isn't my enemy.
Though it is also doubtful whether or not she can be called a friend, it is still better than my current hand and the present conditions.
"You saved Raphtalia, so I'll hear you out. Do I only have to meet the queen?"
This is nothing but a farce, and I don't really have any choice but to willingly participate.
"I don't like the idea of acting based on someone else's ideas, but it seems to be for the best. But if you deceive me......"
"I know degozaru. Then I'll leave at once degozaru. We don't know when the shadows on the church's side may show up degozarukara"
After saying so she disappeared instantly.
Though my last words were a joke, it seems to have been taken seriously.
"Can we trust her?"
Honestly, I am slightly suspicious.
"It's alright...... because mother trusts her."
"I can't understand your mother......"
Though at least her thinking seems to be different from both Trash and Bitch.
So far all I have is that she seems to be friendly, but that is only based on information from Shadow and the second princess, her true purpose still remains unknown.
I also cannot deny that this could all be another a plot to assassinate the second princess by the Three Heroes Church.
I have no other choices so if this is a conspiracy by the queen to kill me, I am doomed.
In the end, we advance in the opposite direction of Silt Welt.
I do not want to believe it, but there is also a chance that the second princess was truly abandoned.
But, it is necessary to know the queen's agenda.
I cannot just view this situation as black and white any more.
"Anyway, I have decided on our destination."
"Okay. Let's go."
"All right. Let's go. Firo-chan"
"Firo will do her best!"
We have taken a step from escaping abroad aimlessly.
Now we will set a course towards the south west.
[ED-Note: As you can see, ninja end their sentences with degozaru and its derivatives. Imagine an ancient way of speaking in your language. That degozaru add an ancient flavour to your modern way of speaking, like reading shakespear's play aloud in its ancient version. Cutting it off and replacing with an English equivalent is possible but a futile gesture, since you readers shouldnt care that much about it. So just think of all that degozaru as local accent and get past it.]
Chapter 64: Name
We changed our course and advanced south west.
Since we have been riding on Firo for a while without a wagon, I'm getting cramps.
"Is there a cart somewhere that we can steal?"
Since I already have a bounty. It's just a wagon......
"Noo~!"
Firo seemed to have a reaction to that
"Firo won't pull a cart that is stolen."
Is this perhaps some Philo Rial sense of justice?
"Stealing aside, it's quite uncomfortable to ride Firo for a long time."
"Does the second princess also think so?"
"Ummm......"
The second princess gives me an unpleasant look and avoids my question.
What's wrong?
"Even though it will be dangerous, maybe we could have Raphtalia buy a wagon in a village......"
It would be nice to just have something to ride in.
Should I ask that Shadow?
"Oops, it looks like nightfall soon. Shall we take a break?"
Just as we were about to rest.
"""Gua!?"""
A wild Philo Rial A appeared!
A wild Philo Rial B appeared!
A wild Philo Rial C appeared!
The Philo Rials saw Firo and raised their voices.
They look familiar. Ah, the ones that ran away immediately before.
Somehow these Philo Rial have the expressions determined to complete their mission, but after a while they run away again.
"What's that?"
"How rare, being able to encounter Philo Aria and Firiru classes in the wild."
The second princess seems to be looking at those Philo Rial with entranced expressions.
"I've this suspicion for a while now, but second princess, you really like Philo Rials right?"
"Yup! Ah......"
After the second princess nodded, she looked at me with an unpleasant face.
Just what did I say?
Gu......
Firo's stomach growls.
"I'm hungry."
"Do not eat each other."
"Firo-chan is such a glutton."
The second princess pokes Firo with her fingers.
"Ehehe"
It's good that they are close, but their behaviour is a little disgusting.
Like some idiot couples. <ref> Like a lovey dovey couple who proudly kiss each other in public, holding hands, feed each other with Aaaahn, etc... You get the drift. </ref>
I finish preparing the camp-fire and start cooking.
"Hey, second princess."
I give her today's dinner but she refuses it with a frown.
What on earth did I say?
"Mel-chan doesn't want to eat?"
"I'll eat. But......"
The second princess seems to be at a loss.
What is going on?
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing."
When Raphtalia asks the second princess picks up her dinner.
"What's wrong Mel-chan"
"Um......"
Firo asks the second princess and she shows a troubled face.
"I don't have the power to brainwash you know."
"That's not it!"
The second princess turns away and pouts.
Her usual attitude doesn't change. She happily chats with Firo's human form and, talks with Raphtalia happily.
But for some reasons she only gives me an unpleasant face, or just ignores me.
I can't understand at all.
After finishing our meal, I heard a few strange cries in the distance.
"The cry of Philo Rial!"
The second princess strains her ears to listen carefully.
"The second princess really likes Philo Rial huh."
"Yup!"
"Why do you like them so much?"
When the second princess noticed I asked the question she gave me another unpleasant look.
Another Philo Rial cry is heard.
"Because......Philo Rials are legendary holy birds......"
"Legendary?"
"Yes. It is a common belief that Philo Rials are companions of Heroes that save people from monsters in the olden times."
"That so?"
"Yes, in the past during another wave of calamity, the heroes used them as mounts."
"There were waves back then?"
Since it was something I heard from Trash I disregarded it.
However, there was a prophecy of the wave.
I wonder if that was it. Glass also said that thinking of the wave as a simple disaster was a big mistake.
Though I don't know if I'll get an answer, I might be able to get some hints from the second princess's story.
"When travelling with mother, she told me the story of Philo Rials."
"Interesting......What stories?"
"You see Philo Rials are the mounts of heroes, their support, and also their protectors."
"Right now Firo here is the same."
Raphtalia answers while looking at Firo.
Certainly, Firo is the cornerstone of our offensive power. Her legs are fast and strong.
Without Firo, earning money through peddling would have been very difficult. Not to mention our lives right now as fugitives are only possible thanks to her.
"Yes. The legends also describe the Queen of Philo Rials."
"Is that so?"
"Umm, the Queen of Philo Rials was also a hero's mount, and she helped them fight against the wave. It is said that the Queen of Philo Rials who also participated in the wave at that time is still alive and watching over the world to this day."
Did I just use such a legend as a substitute horse?
That also explains the reason why Firo was called a holy bird.
"You see, my dream is to one day meet the Queen of Philo Rials."
The second princess embraces Firo affectionately while saying so.
"The Queen of Philo Rials. They are capable of various transformations."
"Well, Firo is probaby also the Queen of Philo Rials. She has all kinds of transformations abilities too."
"That's right! And since I could become friends with Firo-chan my dream was realized."
Second princess, is that the reason you wanted to become friends with Firo?
"Queen huh......"
Incidentally I start thinking about the second princess's mother.
I don't know what kind of persons she is, but if possible I would like to have a talk with her and ask about the story.
Since she is also a parent of that bitch. Half in expectation, half in resignation, according to that degozaru person's story......I have to admit she does seem to be a good person.
Hmm?
I have a feeling there was some sense of incongruity just now.
I compare Firo with the second princess.
"Ahh, so that's what it was."
"What's wrong?"
"Well, according to legend the Queen of Philo Rials is still alive now, does that make Firo a princess of the Philo Rials?"
"Eh, so are you saying Firo-chan is not the Queen?"
"Who knows. Though there is no way to prove that the actual Queen still exists right?"
As if the second princess understood something she shook her head.
"Then are you saying that my dream of meeting the queen still hasn't been fulfilled?......"
"Did I say something bad?"
"No. Just that I would like to meet her some day."
"What do you want to do after meeting her?"
"I want to be friends!"
"I see I see, when the time comes I'll help you out, second princess. After the world becomes peaceful together with Firo you can search for her."
"What about Master~?"
"I'm going back to my own world."
There is no reason to remain in this world, and if I had the choice I would go without hesitation.
Though I do not say that.
"No~! Firo wants to go with Master!"
"No way, leaving your world is not something you want."
"I want to go! I want to go!"
"Endure it. Because the second princess will be your new master."
"No~!"
Oh my, its gotten quite noisy.
"Really......Naofumi-sama will leave if it becomes peaceful."
"Yeah, what about it?"
"Nothing......"
Raphtalia mutters while looking at the camp-fire with deadpan eyes.
"----Don't tell me"
"Hm? Second princess what's wrong?"
The second princess seems to be talking about something while trembling.
"What did you say?"
"Stop calling me the second princess!"
While looking at me with tears in her eyes the second princes shouts.
"What is with you suddenly?"
"The second princess is not a name! I am Melty!"
"What? Isn't that obvious?"
"Why does the Hero of the shield-sama not call me by my name!?"
It seems the stress from the journey has finally exploded.
Raphtalia and Firo were just as surprised as I was and looked at the second princess with eyes of bewilderment.
"How many times do I have to say!? My name is Melty! However, Hero of the Shield-sama just keeps calling me second princess, second princess! That's not my name, that's a position!"
"What? Did you just want me to call you by your name?"
"That's not what I mean! Why is Hero of the Shield-sama ostracising me!?"
"Ostracised? Well, you are an outsider from the party after all."
"But we are friends sharing joys and sorrows now! Don't just call me by my position!"
"Hmm......But don't you call me Hero of the Shield?"
I can say the same about this second princess.
My name is not Hero of the Shield.
"Then I'll call you Naofumi in the future. So Naofumi has to call me by my name too!"
"Haah......"
"Hey! Call my name! Naofumi!"
To call me by my first name without even adding honorifics.
Though if I don't reply she is going to become even noisier.
Since I am troubled that there may be night-attacks despite camping out, I don't want to make too much noise.
In the first place...... the second princess even calls Raphtalia with honorifics.
But I remember the bitch calling my name with "sama".
That bitch called me Hero-sama but......
Well, this is probably alright.
"Fine. Melty. Is this fine?"
"You better remember it!"
"Yeah Yeah."
Was she just displeased recently because I was calling her the second princess?
Such a troublesome fellow. Or is it because she's a girl?
"Firo was surprised."
Yeah. Firo is noisy, but she's not hysterical.
Is it just noisiness peculiar to children?
Though for Firo it's fine, since her age is correspondingly short.
"So princess Melty did mind it."
Raphtalia......How did you know?
My name was called without me noticing.
"Since you helped me, give me your hand."
Since she insisted I shook her hands.
Her fighting style is reliable, but unlike Firo it has good affinity with me who uses a shield.
She can help with my business when peddling, and it should be easy for her to disguise herself.
"Are you praising me?"
"Is there something wrong?"
"Seriously......"
Why does Raphtalia looked troubled?
I feel like something strangely annoying happened.
"Well should we sleep early to get ready for tomorrow?"
"Understood."
"Okay~"
"Uh huh."
<ref> The only excuse for this thickheaded hero is that he's still PTSDed over what the Bitch done to him. It is a reasonable excuse.</ref>
Chapter 65: Legend of the Holy Bird
Several days after changing the way I address the second princess to Melty.
We have been making considerable progress in the opposite direction of Silt Welt thanks to Firo.
Setting that aside.
Recently we have been encountering a lot of wild Philo Rials.
At night their calls remind me of howling wolves in the distance, it is very annoying, especially in the middle of the night.
Is there a Philo Rial habitat around here?
I wonder while sleeping.
It was midnight when and I was sleeping when suddenly.
"""Gua~!"""
"Firo, shut up."
"It's not Firo."
That was fairly close to us though, if it wasn't Firo then what was it?
Are there more wild Philo Rials?
"Umm......Naofumi-sama? I heard a lot of Philo Rial cries."
I notice another cry, and this one is quite near.
"Thanks for reminding me. Firo, do you know how many there are?"
"I don't know."
"Are they far off?"
"Well, they are coming."
"What?"
We look at Firo with strained expressions.
"Be cautious."
"Everyone said they are coming to meet with Firo ."
"Are they speaking to you with this cry!?"
"Yep."
She nodded. I feel uneasy at large amount of Philo Rial cries that could be heard.
The bushes all around us start shaking, and silhouettes of Philo Rials could be seen.
"What the hell is going on!?"
"Waa......There are so many Philo Rial!"
Melty's eyes start to shine as she watches the Philo Rial.
"Umm, Melty. Listen well because I'll teach you something important."
"What is it?"
"Philo Rials eat everything. Firo and I may be alright, but if these Philo Rial attack, you and Raphtalia will be eaten."
"What are you saying Naofumi. Philo Rials are gentle monsters. There is no way they would do something like that."
My face is cramping up from that.
"Shit...... I can't get to the neighbouring country to meet the queen if joke-like developments with wild monsters happen."
The Philo Rials stop hiding and surround us.
There are way too many to count.
A bunch of Philo Rial eyes glowing in the darkness too.
There are Philo Rial as far as the eye can see.
What on earth is happening?
Maybe this is a territorial despite between Philo Rial.
But Firo shouldn't be able to understand the concept of territory.
Firo may be recognized as an extremely high ranked Philo Rial, did they come thinking of her as a menace?
However, since Firo didn't give us a warning cry, this may be different.
Or rather...... Did they come to scout Firo into their territory?
There is a possibility that is happening.
Alright, let's go with that.
"Firo, I hope you find happiness with these guys."
"What are you saying suddenly,Naofumi-sama!"
"Firo-chan is going to leave!?"
"We can't help it. These guys came to pick up Firo."
"Really!?"
"Separating from Master? No~!"
Firo, don't you understand the situation?
It's already too late. If we don't give up Firo here we'll be mobbed by a large amount of Philo Rials.
"Do your best for us, for these guys. Firo."
After this situation is solved I'll have to go buy a new Philo Rial. I hope the next one won't be so annoying.
"No~!"
While we were bantering.
"""Gua~!"""
A group of Philo Rials just divided into two like that one scene from Moses and the Ten Commandments.
what the hell?
"Gua~!"
One Philo Rial walks leisurely towards us. It is also pulling some luxurious carriage.
...... There are jewels fitted onto that carriage.
I think I've seen some of those jewels before......Where was it?
I suddenly look at the shield.
There is a jewel that looks the same as those on the carriage.
"""Gua!"""
A group of Philo Rials salute and bows towards the Philo Rial that is pulling the carriage.
Rattlerattle, the Philo Rial pulling the carriage stops before us.
"Wow...... that is cool. I'm jealous!"
Firo's eyes are sparkling as she watches the carriage.
I hate it. It's such an nouveau riche carriage. <ref> TL term is upstart. I think it means too gaudy with the taste of a newly rich man. Not subtle. </ref>
If I had the choice, I would rather not ride something like that.
"Gua!"
The rope that tied the Philo Rial to the wagon comes off and it steps forward.
Another Philo Rial walks up to the rear.
"What's that? What's going to happen?"
"Gueeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"
When the Philo Rial surrounding the carriage calls out, the surrounding plants start glowing green and wind arises.
"Ah......did they put up a barrier!?"
"Barrier?"
Melty's voice is full of surprise.
"Yes. Naofumi, doesn't it look brighter? From a distance all you would see is fog."
I pay more attention to the group of Philo Rials.
There doesn't seem to be anything like a dense fog.
"This is a high-class sanctuary type barrier."
"What's that?"
"There is a Forest of Illusion, according to legends, equipment of the old era heroes are said to be kept there; However, the fog of magic prevents all who approach."
"You know quite a lot."
"Mother likes stories about the Forest of Illusion. This fog resembles the one described in the stories. I'm surprised."
Does that mean? We can't escape from here even if we run?
"Will you be able to return if you enter the fog?......We seem to have set foot inside the sanctuary of Philo Rials."
Melty seems totally entranced.
That reminds me, this fellow loves Philo Rials. Isn't this like a dream come true?
"Now's not the time for this!"
The plants shine until it's as bright as day.
What on earth is happening?
The Philo Rial that pulled the carriage starts to swell up, up the point where it's just a black silhouette.
Huge......
The silhouette swells flabbily. There is probably a big chance that Firo will end up like that.
At first it had the appearance of a normal Philo Rial, but now it's 6 meters tall.
And...... it stops expanding when it reaches 9 meters. This figure is the same as Firo's monster form.
The same as Philo Rial · Queen (Temporary)
<ref>Tl note: フィロリアル・クイーン(仮) not sure why there is a temp in the raws. - ED- Probabbly the author want to refer to the stage when newly awakened Firo swell to 3 meter size that make Raphtalia worried sick she would swell to same size. After that Firo reduce the form to normal size. </ref>
"Wow~......Big"
I mutter, and Melty looks like she cannot contain her excitement.
Compared to Firo's colour which is light pink and white, that Philo Rial · Queen is white and azure.
A big difference would be a wing-like crown on top of it's head that Firo doesn't have.
"Kueeeeeeeee!"
With just its voice, the vibrations could be felt to the bones.
"Yes.Yes. I understand."
Firo nods a few times and turns to us.
"Umm you see. It seems visiting in human form is impolite. she says."
Firo translates the words that it says. Oh, is it natural that you can communicate since you are from the same race?
<ref> Ahem, perhaps because if she change to human form it would be a voluptous older woman without clothes/ </ref>
"Because there is an ancient pledge and oath, I cannot speak with people easily. I hope you understand. She says."
"......Well, that's fine. But what business do you have with us?"
"Kueeeeeee!"
"First let's have some self-introduction. I am the Queen of Philo Rials. My old name is Fitoria. She says."
"Fitoria!? That's the name of the Philo Rial from the legends."
Meltly yells with an expression full of astonishment.
"Are you by any chance the Hero of the Shield? She says."
"Ah, yeah......"
"I apologize for the sudden visit. I have a little business here. She says."
"Wh-what would that be?"
I have a pain in my neck from looking up at the big Philo Rial.
"Kueee"
"Eh......No~"
Firo gives her a dirty look. What are they talking about?
"Kueee!"
"Really!? All right. I understand."
"What did you talk about?"
"Umm you see. She wants to know Firo's ability , and she seems to want to fight Firo."
"Just Firo?"
Fitoria nods at my question.
"You see. I think we will have a good fight."
"Are you going to avoid killing each other?"
Fitoria nodded again. Although I was busy trying to meet the queen...... A different queen shows up.
"......Isn't it fine then?"
"Kueeeee"
"Thank you for listening to my request Hero of the Shield. She says."
What a troublesome conversation. You should talk from the start if you are capable of it.
The Philo Rials surrounding us backs up when Fitoria expands her wings.
"Kueeee"
"Hero's party should fall back too. She says."
"Okay okay."
Raphtalia, Melty, and I went to the edge of the circle made by Philo Rials.
"Kueeeeeee!"
"Here I go~"
Firo returns to her demon form and charges at Fitoria.
-Fitoria, Queen of Philo Rial, aka the BIG. FAT. BIRD. -
Chapter 66: Foolish Hair
<ref>-ED- The technical term is Ahoge, but leaving it is a bit too otaku-ist for my taste. Literally, “stupid hair” in japanese. To be differentiated from antenna hair, which is two or more thin locks of hair as opposed to only one. </ref>
"Ya!"
Firo attacks first.
She jumps with all her might and reaches the belly of Fitoria's gigantic figure.
"Kue"
Fitora flaps her wings and dodges swiftly.
"Ha!"
While Firo was landing back on the ground, Fitoria slices at her with a wing.
"Oops!"
Firo barely avoids the wing by diving to the side.
"Firo-chan do you best!"
Melty loudly cheers her on.
"""Guaaaaaaaaaaa~!"""
The Philorials similarly support Fitoria with their cries.
"I will not lose~!"
Firo charges up to Fitoria.
"Kue!"
Fitoria tries to bat Firo away using her wings, but Firo dexterously uses the wing as a scaffold and jumps for her face.
"Wow! Amazing~!"
Firo's attack unfortunately ends in failure, but she calls out in admiration.
"Very fast. But I won't lose."
After taking a stance with her wings Firo begins preparing.
Are you going to suddenly use your special ability?
"Yay, here it come~"
Firo's body becomes a blur.
In the next moment, a loud wham could be heard......
"Kue"
At first glance, it seemed Fitora was slowly waving her wings up and down.
"Waaaaaaaa!"
Firo was blown into the air and knocked around.
After being forced to expand her wings to control the air flow, Firo lands.
"To think you would dodge Firo's trump card so easily-"
"Kue"
Fitoria puts one of her wings on her waist and taunts Firo.
To act in such a carefree attitude.
Amazing.
Brushing off Firo's ultimate attack just like that......
"As expected of the legendary Philorial!"
Melty expresses her admiration.
I agree.
What can I say. Our combat expert Firo is being toyed with.
"How about this!"
Firo flaps her wings again.
"Firo commands the origin of power. Firo has read and deciphered a law of nature. Blow her away with a raging tornado!"
"Tzuvait ・Tornado!"
"What?"
To think Firo could use intermediate magic! I doubt she could teach me......
If you could have always used it, then you should have.
We could have ran away from those heroes easily if that spell was used.
The tornado brought forth from Firo's hands flies towards Fitoria-
"KueKueKueKueeeeeeeeeeeee"
"Kueeeeeeeeeeeee!"
Firo's magic was enclosed and dissipated like it was never there.
"Counterbalance?"
Oh, that's a phenomenon that was described in the beginner class magic book.
Interfering with magic. However, that is only possible if the user has sufficient power and analyses on the magic cast.
The proper magic system required varies every time.
It is difficult because the magic cast to counterbalance must be from the proper system, and also must be cast right before the magic hits.
It is easier to counterbalance high class magic than intermediate class magic due to longer cast times.
"Wow......Firo's magic is not effective either~"
Firo charges rapidly Fitoria again.
Without delay Fitoria strikes at Firo with her massive wings.
"Ha!"
With a thud, Firo raised both her wings to catch the colossal attack
"Ugh......It's heavy......But"
After barely withstanding the attack, Firo kicks Fitora's wing away and jumps.
As expected, Fitoria who had her wing kicked away was not in position to defend against Firo who flew up to her face.
Thanks to coating herself with wind Firo's jumping power improved.
"Tei!"
Firo spun her whole body and unleashed a roundhouse kick at Fitoria's face.
It should have hit.
Yet despite all that,
"Kue!"
Fitora was also coated with wind, and Firo was blown off into the sky.
Basaa~!
Still, Fitoria was slightly grazed and a feather was hit off.
"Kuee"
Fitora was watching the feather that Firo hit down with a smile.
I noticed it.
Fitoria still has a something besides magic and physical attacks. There is still something she is hiding.
She hasn't moved one step either.
Just how strong is she?
Legendary Philorial. She certainly lives up to those words. Firo is being taken lightly.
She has absolutely no chance of winning.
"Boo......"
Firo is whining with an ill-humoured expression.
"I will not lose!"
All of Firo's feathers start to stand on end.
"Suuuuu......"
She takes a giant breath. I see, Firo is absorbing the surrounding magic.
Such a thing is possible?
And for nearly 30 seconds she does not move.
"Ok---"
Firo flaps her wings.
Everyone can see that wind magic is being condensed behind her.
This is most likely Firo's strongest finisher.
The prerequisite is too severe. It's not usable in actual combat.
"Here it comes!"
Firo flies at Fitoria with the speed of a bullet.
She rotates her beak, by dashing off the ground and flying low. This attack is the fastest by far.
Usually Firo's attacks consist of basic kicking and pecking.
What can I say. This attack resembles the finisher from an air-plane shaped robot in a strategy game.
<ref>Tl note: I'm not sure what he is referencing here, if anyone knows please tell me.-ED-Awaiting~</ref>
"Kue!?"
Even Fitoria widened her eyes in surprise.
With a large step, Firotia takes a step back and......
It was over.
Fitoria stretched both her wings and her expression changed, her posture resembled one killing bugs with both hands, and squishes Firo.
"Kyu......"
- Light Novel's difference: Fitoria changed to human form -
When Fitoria opens her wings and a knocked-out Firo falls down.
"Firo-chan!"
"Guaaaaaaaa!"
The Philorials start cheering.
We follow after Melty who rushes out first.
"Are you okay?"
"Yup......ah......"
As Melty rushes up to Firo to check on her, Firo looks up at me.
After looking around restlessly I look down at her.
"Firo lost."
"But you did great.You fought well against the Queen of Philorials."
"She wasn't even trying, Firo couldn't hit her at all."
As Firo was sulking Firotia called with KueKue.
"What are you giving me?"
Oh, we're going to receive something?
"KueKue"
"I pass? Pass what?"
Fitoria pulls off a single piece of her beautiful feather crown and gives it to Firo.
Suddenly, the feather glows and is attaches itself to Firo's head.
Then it splits and disperses......
On Firo's head is now an ahoge bouncing around.
"......"
Raphtalia and I are left speechless.
What just happened?What was that a reward?
"Eh?"
"Firo-chan is so cute!"
Melty is excitedly admiring Firo while the bird in question doesn't understand what is going on.
"Did something happen?"
"Umm......"
When I point on top of her, Firo timidly touches her head.
"Something strange grew! No~!"
Buchin!
Eh!?
She yanked it out with all her might.
"It hurts~!"
Firo is delighted about getting rid of the ahoge, but is also in pain.
Pyokon!
However, from where it was pulled out another ahoge appears.
"It grew again!"
"Ehh!?"
With watery eyes Firo sadly gave up on removing the ahoge after pulling it out several times.
Well, the ahoge isn't that bad.
"Kue Kue"
"You're terrible~!"
"What did she say?"
"Give up on pulling it because it will always grow back."
"Kue Kue"
"Eh......So its become like that......"
Firo looks at Fitoria's feather crown.
What on earth did this legendary Philorial pass down to Firo?
I swiftly check Firo's status screen.
......Her abilities have improved from before.
Perhaps, this is divine protection or something like a correction ability.
It's a good reward for Firo who is unable to level up.
"Kue Kue"
Fitora points at me and beckons me with a Kui Kui.
"It's a gift for master."
"I don't need an ahoge."
"Ahoge?"
I'd rather not explain. If I tell her she'll annoy me about it.
"Kue Kue"
"She said it's even better."
"Hmmm......"
I don't know what it is, but I hope it's nothing strange.
I can't really refuse, so I approach.
"Kue Kue"
Fitoria points at my shield and gestures upwards.
"Like this?"
I lift up my shield. Fitoria pulls out another crown feather and puts it on the shield.
The shield has a huge reaction and absorbs it.
All of the Philorial series has been unsealed.
"What?"
I check the skill tree and confirm that all of the Philorial shields are lit up and active.
Most of them are basic ability and equipment bonuses, there are Speed Ups too, Philorial ability correction, Growth Correction (Big Middle Small), Growth○○Correction (Big Middle Small) there are also shields received that I cannot wear.
What stands out is, Riding ability Up (Big Middle Small).
However, there are a lot of shields I cannot use since my level is insufficient.
It is nice to have unlocked all the Philo Rial shields though.
"I am extremely grateful."
"Kue Kue"
Fitoria nodded while smiling.
I was given quite an amazing reward.
Are the powers of Philorials condensed into that feather?
This is also very helpful since Firo cannot Level.
That reminds me, Melty said that in the legends the Queen of Philorials fought together with heroes.
Is Fitoria the origin of the legend of the holy bird?
Does that mean Fitoriea gave me her feather because understands how the hero's weapon works?
"Kue"
"I have finished my business here so I will take my leave."
"Ah, Umm......"
Melty timidly calls out to Fitoria.
"Kue?"
"Please shake my hand!"
It is Melty's cherished wish to meet and befriend the legendary Philorial so she pleas excitedly.
For a handshake...... Are you meeting an idol or an athlete?
"Kue Kue"
Fitoria was dumbfounded for a few seconds before she stroked melty's head with her large wings.
And she was embraced kindly with a smile.
Melty sunk quite deep into Fitoria's bossom.
"Wow......"
It seems Melty has also received a large service and was placed on top of Fitoria's head.
"So high!"
Melty is extremely thrilled.
Fitoria tells us to get back, and as we fall back.
She expands to twice her size......18 meters.
That's as big as a building already.
"This is amazing!"
Melty's voice could be heard in the distance. Isn't that a bit too high?
Can this still be considered a Philorial? Just how much can it grow?
No, this form or it's 9 meter form should be it's orignal size, she is probably transforming.
......Will Firo become that big too?
I look at Firo suspiciously.
"What's up?"
"Nothing."
If you seriously grow that big......it'll be quite a problem.
To sustain that size the food expense would be astronomical.
Fitoria lives in the wild. Moreover, she's the genuine queen of the group. In those conditions eating regardless of amount would be fine.
But Firo is a pet Philorial. I have to take care of her.
Should I reuse the Bio Plants?
After Melty and Fitoria finished played, Fitoria changed back into form of a usual Philorial that pulled the luxurious carriage and shook Melt's hand.
"You see. I have an old oath, I can only say words of parting to humans."
"I see."
I wonder if this is just courtesy.
"See ya-"
"Eh!?"
That voice is the same as Firo's! That bird!
I mean she can even speak in the figure of a normal Philorial?
The Philorials surrounding us scattered when Firoria disappeared.
"Ha......"
Melty sighed while seemingly enchanted.
"That was dreamlike......"
"It was a good dream."
I feel that was a monster that is capable of Armageddon.
To effortlessly toy with Firo who has the strength to kick around a dragon.
Anyway, I am looking forward to how much Firo has powered up.
Our journey to the south west continues.
- Ahoge, aka Foolish Hair, not yet Hair Radar because of at least two-
