- Introducing another loli character -
What, why, and how am I doing this: fav.me/d7zdjk4Index
Chapter 55: pastebin.com/ThPHwPzH
Chapter 56: pastebin.com/GkTSr9wp
Chapter 57: pastebin.com/fxG8M967
Chapter 58: pastebin.com/BS5dSDXe
Chapter 55: Departure
"I demand Decapitatiooooooooooon!"
As expected of Trash. My answer is equivalent to your crown.
"Oops, it looks like you think your guillotine can hurt me"
With a clang, the knights of the trash take out their swords and surround me.
"Did you guys forget during the wave the I am the one who defeated the opponent those other heroes got trashed by?"
I equip my shield and answer.
As for the knights, none of them dare to move.
An appearance befitting a hero. These are people that know of what happened during the wave, so they do not attack.
Even if it was a half bluff.
"What are you doing! Kill this impudent bastard already!"
"Hey......"
I glare at the trash king and repeat.
"Do you not understand? The present me can enter the castle from the entrance, murder you, and walk out just like that......"
"Grrr......"
At last, this Trash seems to finally know his position. His face is mortified.
"Do you believe I can actually do it?"
I learnt that in this world threats and bluffs during negotiations are necessary. Therefore, against this Trash I'll use it to the maximum.
"If you're going to request a hero to do it, do you think they can win against me?"
"Grrrrr......."
The Trash is grinding his teeth with frustration.
"Being able to say such a thing--"
"If you harm my subordinates? I'll kill you."
Before I lose the possibility I will take the first move.
Since I have no clarification, I don't know whether or not the Iron Maiden skill can kill this Trash.
But, I'm quite sure it will work.
If I also include the flames from the Self-Curse Burning.
Trash's expression turns blue when he understands his position.
"Do not bother me Trash. I will co-operate during a wave, but once it is over do not disturb me."
This is my only threat but I cannot reveal my trump card easily. I'd prefer that to be my last resort.
Even if I kill him here nothing will be solved. This Trash's successor will just appear and put me on the wanted list.
Even if I fight the other Heroes it is doubtful that I can win.
Besides, if all three of them team up on me I will lose.
"See ya"
I turn my heal and walk out of the throne room.
"Unforgivable! I won't forgive you Shieeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeld!"
Trash's scream resounds throughout the throne room.
"That's my lineeeeeeeeeeeeeee!"
I pointed at the trash before leaving.
After leaving the throne room I pass by a noble woman-like person.
Concealing her lips with a fan and an expensive looking dress.
The face is too well concealed to be able to tell her age.
Perhaps late 20s......?
Her hair is purple......Quite a rare colour......
"Thank you for participating degozaru"
Was whispered to me as we passed each other.
Gozaru?
Dangerous, I almost turned around. <ref> Nnninja?</ref>
Hm?
A girl just like Raphtalia when she was small and Firo's humanoid form is behind the woman.
Her hair colour is bluish. Also something you don't see much.
She is dressed well, is she her child?
However, they don't really resemble each other......
Though she her looks rivals that of Firo's human form. Is this little girl also a bird?
Hm......
I cannot remember who she looks like.
Oh well, that person is probably unpleasant. Remembering is just a waste of time.
So, at that time, we just crossed paths unintentionally.
I had no idea this kid would become an important figure in a future uproar.
By the way, Raphtalia and Firo were waiting for me in another room.
And the fact that they predicted I would cause trouble and was even ready for escape was icing on the cake.
Anyway, we left there in a hurry.
The next day.
I show up at the equipment store, to check on the requested carriage.
"Oh it's the lad. The carriage you asked for is done."
"Pretty quick. However old man, can you make anything as long as it's metal based?"
"I had my acquaintance help out, so I didn't make all of it."
Is this common for metal workers?
"Well, he's just one of those guys that can do anything as long as you have money."
"Lad, don't be sad just because you found out I can't do everything. I'm not versatile like you."
"I'm not omnipotent either......"
What does the old man think of me?
"Well it's parked in the back."
"Ah then let's check it out. By the way, Raphtalia-"
Raphtalia grasps my hand before I finish.
"What's wrong?"
"This sword is still fine. Let's conserve money for now."
"Well..... If Raphtalia says so......
Though Firo is now our main attacker.
It shouldn't be necessary for Raphtalia to act unless it's urgent, the same goes for me.
This sounds bad, but there may be weapons somewhere else that are better than the ones in the old man's shop.
We went around the equipment store to check out the metal wagon.
The hood is metallic, and the whole carriage feels like an enlarged Christmas ornament that my parents bought.
"Wow~......"
Firo's eyes are shining with unprecedented brightness. She heads towards the front and grabs the handle.
"Firo is going to pull this right!?"
"Yeah"
"Yaay~!"
Firo is quite happy, both her feet and wings are flapping, as if wanting to bolt off at any moment.
She has such a face.
"For the time being let's carry in your luggage."
"Okay"
"Okay~!"
We transfer the baggage from our carriage that we used in between waves to the new one.
It took quite some time to carry the materials, merchandise, and tools.
"How is it lad?"
The old man from shows up when he has free time. And I answer with a thumbs up.
"Yeah, it's as great as I expected."
"I see, but it seems to be very heavy, will the little missy be fine......?"
"Yup!"
"This fellow here ran around the country with a carriage that had 3 carts attached."
"That's amazing"
"Rather, it's lighter than I expected so I'm a little disappointed."
"You know, stop being so stubborn!"
What are the standards for Philo Rial anyway? Why do they feel great when they pull carriages?
"Hahaha, do your best. So what'll you do from now on?"
"What will I do?"
"I heard about the commotion at the castle."
The old man says to me with a somewhat troubled face.
"That sure travelled quick"
"Rumours keep the town lively."
"Oh well. I did is so that Trash would understand his position."
"......Though it's only a matter of time before you get falsely accused again."
"That's what I expected."
"If possible I don't want to know."
"I believe I asked this some time ago...... Are you going to go to Silt Welt or ShirudoFuriden to Class up?
<ref>Tl note: Still need some help for names of countries. シルトヴェルト (Silt Welt) シルドフリーデン (Shirudo Furiden)-ED: Shirudo is japanese spelling of Shield. Furiden might be corrupted form of Freedom. Shield Freedom. シルトヴェルト spelt as Shiruto vu~eruto also possibly corrupted form of Shield Worth. We might have to wait until actual chapters about the places to know for sure. </ref>
A few things come to mind when, and what I should have done when threatening Trash is also get permission to use the Hourglass of the Dragon's era. But if the class up is controlled by the Trash I will also fear for Raphtalia and Firo.
I would rather not have that unnecessary anxiety haunting me.
It would be best to get a free pass for Class up in any of these two countries.
"Well, I expected you to go to be forced to leave this country someday."
"What?"
It seems the old man is nodding his head as if agreeing with himself.
What does he mean?
"I would recommend you going to Shirudo Furiden. Silt Welt is in turmoil......"
"Is that so?"
"Yeah, humans there are treated just like the demi-humans in this country."
No wonder...... It would be unsuitable for me who is a human.
"But--"
"Thanks for the help. I'll be going to Shirudo Furiden"
We finished loading and got into the carriage.
"Well then, I expect you to visit a great number of shops."
"Thanks, Oh right. Do you know of any weapons that have a soul attribute, or can damage ghosts?"
"I see, so you've gotten to the point where you need to prepare for such enemies."
"I can make something cheaply from certain materials."
"I cannot match you any more. If possible don't come back for a while. I'll tell you where you can get materials."
"I understand. Thanks for all the help. Then, let's go."
"Okay~"
"See ya. old man."
"Later"
Firo pulls the rattling carriage.
Our present goal is a Class up. It seems to be quite far into the future.
With Firo's running speed we should arrive in two weeks.
"That!"
I hear a loud voice outside.
Before leaving the castle town a something hits the metal carriage.
"I found you!"
"......What?"
After making Firo stop, a little girl looks into the carriage and points at me.
Behind the girl is a knight-like guy.
These guys seems to have followed us for a while.
"You did something terrible to father!"
"Hmm?"
What? The girl with blue hair that I am not familiar with gets closer.
"What's with you."
"Don't play dumb! I know that you can't hide it! You are an accomplished villain! The atrocious Hero of the Shield!"
This goddamn noisy kid. Is she some aristocrat?
That reminds me, I sold some cheap accessory to a noble before.
Though it wasn't just once or twice. I can't remember how many times any more.
"I see, your father just can't tell quality. I am just smarter."
"What did you say!?"
But, Hero of the Shield = Evil person..... That's quite unpleasant.
Oh well, it's too late now.
"Tell you father. To polish his aesthetic sense next time."
"Boo,Boo...... I'll never admit it, mother is wrong, the Hero of the Shield is a bad person! I'll punish you!"
The subordinate knights step forward according to the girl's order.
"Hm. Can you keep them company Firo?"
"What~?"
"Just go."
"Okay"
"Ah......"
Firo stares at the goddamn kid and seems preoccupied.
"Holy Bird?"
"Eh?"
Firo inclines her neck and looks at the goddamn kid puzzled.
"Hurry up and go!"
"Okay~"
Firo nods, and the carriage suddenly takes off.
"AH Wait---------------! Don'r run awaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay!"
The voice of the goddamn kid fades into the distance.
The castle town sucks as expected. Other than coming for shopping I would rather stay away.
Chapter 56: Shield Demon
"Let's continue peddling."
"I guess. Travelling expenses and the cost of weapons can get pretty expensive."
"I think so too."
"Though our food costs for a certain bird is the highest."
The Mileage to Food cost ratio on our bird is not negligible, but our horsepower is amazing.
Feeding a demon is ridiculous, the sheer quantity required is impossible to sustain.
So before all my money is consumed I need to earn more.
We should be fine selling things in the villages and towns we stay at.
While thinking so our treat begins. but......
"I finally caught up!"
It is now evening.
The goddamn kid from the castle town caught up with us.
While peddling I decided on an inn.
"What a persistent brat."
"We haven't finished talking yet!"
"Whatever. It's about your father. So what?"
"So what!? You suck!"
The goddamn kid's face instantly turns red. Quite an emotional kid.
It's annoying and hysteric.
"My father is angry at the shield."
"I see, that's great."
"No it's not!"
This annoying brat.
After deciding on a place to stay the hotel charges are paid. I want to ignore her, but she is very persistent.
I wonder how far she intends to chase. I want to ask and make sure.
"What's wrong?"
Firo got bored of playing nearby and came back. By the way, even if a party member beats a monster far away I still get a little experience.
Sometimes all those minuscule experience gains block my view while peddling.
Though Firo brings me materials under the pretence of souvenirs.
"Ah......"
The goddamn kid stops and watches Firo again.
"Are you the Philo Rial that pulled the carriage?"
"Yeah, you understand."
"You are different from all the Philo Rial that I know of. It's my first time seeing one that looks like a child."
To be fair, only a few people have actually seen a Philo Rial Queen. We might be the only ones in the country.
"Master, did you need anything?"
"We are talking!"
"Start from the beginning."
Firo has been talking with her since they met.
"Shouldn't you be chirping?"
"Nope. Firo can speak words~"
"Wow......Awesome!"
"Ehehe I'm amazing."
The goddamn kid approaches Firo and touches her.
Firo doesn't seem to mind.
Oh their mental ages are probably similar.
......I can use this.
"If Firo agrees to it she can take her Philo Rial form and you two can go out and play together."
"Really!?"
"Yeah, go play until you're finished and then return."
"Yay~!"
The goddamn kid pats Firo with a smile.
"Master. What about Firo?"
"Play with the child. I order you not to injure her."
"Yay~!"
Firo saddles the little shit on her back.
Her expression instantly brightens.
"Yaay! We're so high!"
"Let's go play!"
"Ok!"
They happily run off together.
The knights chase after them with a perplexed expression.
"It's finally quiet again."
"Naofumi-sama, your expression right now is very evil."
"There's no problems. That goddamn brat is probably going to forget any grudges she has after this."
"Goddamn brat...... Naofumi-sama do you dislike kids?"
"Not particularly. If I disliked them I would have abandoned you and Firo a long time ago.
"Well, that's true."
I hate her because she is accusing me.
I'd like to avoid any falling sparks if possible.
"When we enter the neighbouring country they should stop."
If she's an animal enthusiast and will just play with Firo it'll be fine.
"......I guess."
That day, Firo did not come back until very late.
It seems they were very exited about having new friends and played a lot, well it's good that they are happy about it.
By the way the name of that goddamn kid is Mel-chan.
Next morning.
After eating a light breakfast we leave the inn quickly. On the Road.
"Waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaait!"
I crease my brows and face palm.
I knew this was going to happen, but to think she would be this quick.
I already forgot about the fellow when we departed this morning.
"Ah, it's Mel-chan"
Since Firo stopped I got off the carriage to welcome the goddamn kid.
"You should be glad Firo-chan I won't have the Hero of the Shield apologize if we can play!"
"I'm sorry. Are we done?"
"Don't apologize to me, do it to father!"
So annoying.
I can't deal with her.
"If you don't apologize everyone won't be forgiven."
So she says, as the knight behind her pulls out a sword.
You want to fight?
Against a Hero?
Huh? The guy behind the goddamn brat is pointing a crystal ball at me.
What's that?
Suddenly I notice.
This guy......He's not looking at me.
I feel a chill run up my spine.
This foreboding feeling ,and atmosphere reminds me of when I was deceived by that bitch.
This atmosphere that I encountered the past few months of trying to plunge another into despair.
I charge the Knight at once.
And my premonition becomes reality.
The knight aims his sword at the goddamn kid.
"Kyaaaaaaaaaaaa!?"
"Air Strike Shield!"
The goddamn brats starts to scream. I immediately cast Air Strike Shield to intercept.
"......What the hell are you doing!"
I stand in front of the goddamn kid and glare at the enemy.
"You Shield! How dare you hold a princess hostage!"
"Huh?"
Princess?
Regardless of who you are looking after, isn't it weird to call them princess?
The goddamn kid seems to know what's going on and her face turns blue.
"The shield is evil! I've known since the beginning."
The enemies are attacking us while saying so.
I protect the goddamn kid by pulling her close.
Gakin, the clashing of metal resounds in the area.
"Damn......"
The enemy starts to cast magic that rains fire.
Can't be helped. I'll cover the goddamn kid with my mantle to protect her from magic.
"You......Demon of the Shield!"
"Firo, Raphtalia!"
"Okay!"
"Okay~!"
As per my instructions. Raphtalia and Firo charges the enemy.
Just as we counter attack the enemy retreats on horseback.
"Fools."
Firo's leg power overwhelms horses. One of them is instanly blown off.
"Guaaaaaaaaaaa!"
"Ah, it's the devil!"
Additionally, we pursue the enemy and continue attacking, one , two, some were captured but a few of them managed to get away.
"What the hell is wrong with these guys."
Were they not the goddamn brat's guards?
A princess huh.
I have no choice but to perform a few interrogations here.
I ask the enemies who are bound by rope.
"Now then, you bastards, tell me why you are trying to kill a child. Only the reason."
"As If I have anything to say to a devil"
"Hooh......"
Devil, huh. It's been a while since I've been straight up called that.
Regardless of who it's always Hero of the Shield.
"You. Do you understand what's happening to you?"
I give instructions to Firo.
"Food?"
The enemy's face turns blue.
"I will sacrifice myself for god...... God will lead me to heaven."
......Religion.
Against these kinds of fanatics threats will not work.
"Hey brat, you have any ideas?"
The goddamn brat shakes her head in fear.
"Say, what religion do you believe in? It'll probably be to some stupid god anyway."
"The three Heroes Church! You damn Devil! You dare mock God?"
As I thought. These fools can't stand it when their religion is mocked.
Now, if I can skilfully manipulate him with insults I may be able to get some information.
"The religion of this country."
Raphtalia mutters alone.
"Do you know about it?"
"This country mostly believes in the teachings of the Three Heroes. I did not believe since my parents were from a different religion."
"......Then this guy is just using religion as a tool for personal gains."
"Ah. Yeah"
I find a Rosary-like Accessory on the people who Raphtalia tied up.
"I'm going to place this on the ground."
"Hah......"
What a strange symbol. Three weapons pile on top of each other.
Sword, Spear, and Bow?
Quite an unpleasant line up of weapons.
"Now, I will step on this tool if you guys don't speak obediently."
"St-Stooooooop!"
The enemy's cry stops me.
That was quite early......
Is this lump of metal so important?
Rather than anything special, it just reminds me of a fashion accessory, it doesn't even have any special effects.
Though it might just be the case for me since people in my world start wars for religion.
"Look at this."
I repeatedly stomp on the strange symbol with my foot.
"You devil of the shield! God will never forgive such acts!"
"I know, now tell me quickly why you're trying to kill her. Or is this the degree of your faith? Huh?"
"Damn......"
"To think there would be a devil stepping on god's symbol right in front of you. Shouldn't god be on your side?"
It's the opposite of the loyalty test.
Since this guy recognizes me as the devil, he will not stand by as I perform barbaric acts.
"If you spit it out I'll stop."
"I'm not going to listen to anything a d-devil has to say."
"Ah I see."
I stomp on the symbol hard enough that it sinks into the ground.
"You bastaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaard!"
Hmm...... I wonder what happened.
Did he finally realise his position?
"Hey brat, who is this guy anyway?"
"Aau......"
The goddamn brat still seems to be recovering from the fear of almost being killed.
"Mel-chan. Master and Firo is here so you'll be alright."
"......Firo-chan"
The goddamn kid collects herself, gives me a look and mutters.
"Uhm. These people are my father's knights."
"That reminds me, who is your father?"
"Father?"
"Yeah, which noble family are you from?"
"Uhm"
Not nobility? Then what is it?
She looks considerably well-bred, is she the daughter of a famous merchant?
Daughter of the accessory merchant? Though there should be no reason for malice if that's the case.
......From this guy's speech and behaviour her dad should be quite powerful and respected.
I still think she's some noble's daughter.
"Father is the king of this country."
"......What?"
"Holt Clay Merlot Mark the 32nd. I am Melty Merlot Mark......This country's second princess."
<ref>Tl note: Holt Clay...... as expected of Trash. If anyone has a better name let me know.オルトクレイ＝メルロマルク３２世。私はメルティ＝メルロマルク……この国の第二王女</ref>
Thus, I somehow became embroiled in a ridiculous conspiracy.
Chapter 57: Church of Three Heroes
"Alright, let's throw this guy away and leave the country."
I declare immediately after finding out that this goddamn brat is the second princess of Merlot Mark, Melty.
"Please wait. Are you just going to abandon a child who is being targeted?"
"She's the daughter of Trash. I'm also going to be convicted regardless."
"But I think the circumstances are quite strange."
Hm, Raphtalia's opinion does make sense.
The second princess who was almost murdered is shaking again, while Firo is babysitting her.
If she really is the second princess, there should be no reason for the knights of this country to kill her.
Is this just a big conspiracy, or factional strife? Why would they want the princess dead?
I am completely ignorant about the circumstances of this country's internal affairs.
"Mel-chan. Why were you almost killed?"
"......I don't know. I just came to complain to the Hero of the Shield because he hurt father."
"You came alone?"
"No. The imperial guardsmen knights wanted to come no matter what."
It seems the second princess is merely a puppet.
Even if I interrogate her it would be impossible to get any information.
"Firo will certainly help you!"
"Hey, don't just go making promises without my permission!'
"Master. Firo wants to help Mel-chan"
"No."
"I want to help! I want to help! I want to help!"
"Argg, so annoying!"
Shit, I have a bad feeling about this. What's going to happen.
The knight who was watching begins to laugh.
"Finally you understand your position as a devil."
"Shut up. I'm done with you."
"You can't escape. I'll be waiting here until the mission succeeds."
"......What do you mean?"
"Our goal is to kill the second princess and pin the blame on you, but even though the first condition can not be fulfilled it is fine. Your head will be worth a lot of money from now on."
That Trash, to think he would do something like this.
You're willing to sacrifice your daughter to find a just cause for killing me!?
"Even if you escape abroad, the royal family's assassins will pursue you!"
".....Wait, why is it necessary to kill the second princess in front of me?"
If you wanted to pin a false charge on me all you needed is the Bitch's testimony.
Even if the second princess is murdered somewhere else, they just need to claim that I did it.
Why aren't they doing?
Suddenly, I recall that other knight's crystal ball.
Due to him fleeing first, he managed to escape.
If that was something that took photographs.
"Devil of the Shield, the fact that you participated in murdering princess Melty has been spread to the other countries. You will no longer be able to take refuge there."
No wonder. In this country, they cannot cross the borders to search for me.
If I manage escape abroad then it will show that this country is weak.
As for the other countries,they will help the Hero of the Shield to try gaining me as an ally.
However, that will be impossible now.
There is a crystal ball that shows the moment when the Hero of the Shield might have murdered the second princess.
That is plenty of evidence.
Once they show that to foreign countries I won't be able to seek refuge.
Wow...... I kind of respect how thorough they are.
That leaves me with 3 choices.
Choice 1
I ditch the second princess.
The knight of the Trash that came to kill the second princess will fulfil his duty and give the country a just cause to hunt me.
I live as a wanted man with a bounty on my head.
It spreads to another country and the time that I stay as a wanted man becomes even longer.
It will be the most dangerous when the wave comes. I will most likely be caught.
Choice 2
I take the second princess to the Trash and explain the circumstances.
The second princess will keep her life, but this is Trash we are talking about. The crime of kidnapping will not be cleared.
In other words I can save the life of the second princess, but my innocence will not be proven.
Choice 3
We go kill Trash in an outrage.
The crime will be complete which will lead to the 3 heroes, the church, and a massive amount of knights hunting me down.
The possibility of failure is too high.
"No matter the choice my innocence will not be proven-! That trash king, to murder his own daughter to kill me!"
Very unpleasant!
Seriously why is everyone blood related to the king so annoying,
"Hahaha! It's over the for Devil of the shield. You will perish before the Church Three Heroes!"
"Shut up!"
I tell the knights to shut up while ordering Firo out of spite.
You are allowed to kill them, but it's meaningless since a lot of them already escaped.
But, if my false charges are dropped, they will ask about the homicide.
"Still, that Church of Three Heroes......"
Church of Three Heroes
Three, Heroes, Church.
Now that I think about it, aren't these things all connected?
The symbol contains the holy weapons of those three.
But isn't it strange?
Sword, Spear, Bow, and Shield.
According to legends these 4 are the only ones.
But the Knights view me as the devil, and the Church of Three Heroes are also hostile.
......Is that it?
Upon arrival in this world, none of the adventurers wanted to become my companion.
Naturally, the only adventurers they prepare are ones trusted by the country.
It seems the religion known as the Church of Three Heroes is brought up a lot around the city.
Since the Church of Three Heroes calls me the devil of the shield, I am supposed to be an absolute evil within the country.
Who would willingly become the devil of the shield's companion? Were they not even aware of my situation, or were they trying to create a situation where I can be nothing but evil?
......That seems to be the case. In this country just saying Hero of the Shield will earn you a dirty look.
The majority of knights are blind believers, of course the royal family is no exception.
Thinking back with this information, I can't help but be a little amused at the rape accusations placed on me.
Since I am treated as a religious enemy, I was ignored intentionally and branded as a criminal without evidence.
If I do anything bad the citizens will just say "Because he's the devil of the shield"
That sister's hostility towards me at the Hourglass of the Dragon's era proves it.
I can somewhat understand the Trash king's thoughts.
If he wants to keep his standing as the king, he will not be able to treat the devil of the shield the same as the three heroes.
Currently, the reputation of the Hero of the Shield has improved within the country.
Since I have been going around various places masquerading as the Saint of the Holy Bird and saving people.
Excluding the castle town, recently even as the Hero of the Shield, there has been no more hostility aimed towards me.
The problem is related to the prestige of the church.
I have no doubt they will also add threatening the church of three heroes to my list of crimes.
Is that why they played the trump card that is the second princess?
But, in the end this is all merely speculation.
No matter what I do it will be impossible to get rid of the false accusations.
"Fa-father won't do something like this!
Declares the second princess.
"Maybe......"
"Finish your sentence."
"Mother said that Father's forte is in warfare but, recently he also has quite a short fuse."
"Mother huh......"
Speaking of which, I still have not met the wife of Trash.
Good at war huh......That's certainly one hell of an enemy I've made. So far nothing good has happened to me.
"Mother always wins when they play intellectual games."
"Aren't you just calling her cunning?"
Whenever I talked to him all I felt was the he was a fool. Not sure how smart this mother will be.
"Father cherishes me so he won't do something like this."
"Then why did such a thing happen?"
"Uh......"
The second princess seems to cry at an moment.
"Master is awful~"
"That's right. To make such a small child cry."
"She is the same age as you."
Did Raphtalia forget she was the same size about two months ago?
Or is it because she has a big sister relationship with Firo.
Well, that trash king wasn't exactly a good person; However, he does not seem like a criminal.
I think that the trash treasures his relatives.
There is also the possibility that this situation was entirely cooked up by the fanatics that are trying to label me as a devil at all costs.
Besides, is the current dynasty even stable? <ref> Dynasty instead of royalty, yo~</ref>
This might be a little forced, but what if there are two factions: one supporting that bitch and one for the second princess?
"What about your sister?"
The successor would want to nip a bad bud early.
That bitch would pull off such a plan.
"Wouldn't it be something like, I am the next queen. I need to prevent my younger sister from somehow taking the seat?"
"If it's elder sister......maybe."
"Well I'm not denying that possibility."
"Since the old days mother would tell me not to imitate my sister in entrapping people to get whatever she wanted."
Is this the bitch's plan?
I mean, even her own relatives are wary of her.
"Mother said that Father does not understand."
"Now that I think about it, you've been saying mother a since a while ago but, who is she?"
"Mother is the queen of this country. All year round she is in charge of diplomacy. I am always with mother."
"So what does that have to do with us?"
"Mother will occasionally return visit father."
"Uhh......So about her diplomacy."
"Because I do not want war I try my best everyday. Because of the wave the world is in danger, since I am the queen It is my duty to protect my country."
From what I hear she seems to be superior to Trash.
She might not patronize me.
Though a dangerous fellow may come after me to protect Trash.
Hmm?
Thinking back seriously, did I not pass by this fellow in the castle after I parted from Trash?
"The day before yesterday, were you with your mother? Is it that person with the purple hair?"
"That is my mother's body-double."
"Body-double huh...... Was there really such a feeling?"
Her outstanding purple hair left an impression.
"Yup. That's her disguise, and she talks funny."
"Wow"
<ref> Thanks to Negima, any person talk with -degozaru is worthy of respect </ref>
Doesn't matter.
"She is greater than father."
The second princess just said something outrageous.
"......What did you say?"
"She is greater than father."
"What?"
"Naofumi-sama, in Merlot Mark the queen has the power. This country's royal family is of the female line."
Raphtalia supplemented as if it was natural.
Then is that it?
That Trash is a son-in-law!
<ref>ED: In Japan there's a tradition of a son-in-law marry into the family and take family's surname to keep that line going. A majority of them is second or third son who has no prospect of inheriting their family business. The subtext is that any son-in-law like that is of lower standing </ref>
"Naofumi-sama why are you laughing?"
"This is too funny, that trash is just a son-in-law taken into the family? Ahahahahaha!"
"Master you seem to be having fun~"
"Do not speak ill of father!"
"Isn't it fine? He deserted you."
"I wasn't thrown away! Uwaaaan"
Oh, the second princess has begun hitting me while crying.
What a healing scene. I see an annoying fellow crying.
"You're the worst, making a child cry and then laughing."
"I know."
Rapthalia got mad as expected.
"So is there any way we can clear the suspicions and save her life......?"
In the first place why should I defend relatives of Trash and Bitch?
Still, I cannot murder her.
Though this fellow's blood is bad I would rather not dirty myself with it.
Sigh......
However, I do sympathize a bit with her situation.
Being betrayed by blood relatives whom you believe in, the second princess has tasted the bottom of despair.
All right. There must be some method.
"Do you know where your mother the queen is?"
This is the first method. If Trash is of no use, I'll meet and talk with the queen.
Since she has more power than Trash, our problem should be solved.
In this scenario, the second princess's survival has become a necessary condition.
We will be heavily depending on whether she lives or dies.
It also seems that from our talks her mother is quite intelligent.
Though I still have my doubts considering how stupid Trash is.
"......I don't know."
The second princess shakes her head.
"I see."
There is no reason to flee to another country aimlessly in this situation.
I recall my talk with the old man of the equipment store.
If I'm not mistaken, the country of Demi-humans Silt Welt is one that dominates humans. Merlot Mark's influence will be very low there right?
The possibility is quite high that the queen will find out and come to negotiate when she finds out that the second princess leaves Merlot Mark.
Of course, it would be very dangerous for us humans, but we have Raphtalia who is a demi-human.
It might also be good if we disguise ourselves.
"Alright, let's run away to Silt Welt for the time being. We might be able to overcome this situation there."
"That's the country of Demi-humans..... I see, it could work."
Raphtalia seems to understand.
"I'll leave the negotiations to enter the Demi-human country to you."
"Okay!"
"Now second princess, I will have come with us. Rest assured, I will protect you by all means. If you do not wish to die then follow me."
"......Okay"
The second princess unwillingly joins our carriage.
I do not dislike children if they understand.
But in this case. It would be better tell the truth about this trash king and bitch princess who are no better than filth to this world.
Since the situation demands it our destinies have become intertwined, if either of us die it's over.
The second princess is also still a child.
If we teach her about what's correct starting from the beginning she might be able to understand.
"Then we'll be together from now on Mel-chan."
"Yup......I'll be in your care Firo-chan."
Firo is in a good mood now that she found out she'll have a new friend to journey together with.
The second princess will be the key that leads us to victory.
If we lose her we are done.
I covered the knights who fainted in the forest and changed our direction to Silt Welt while staying cautious.
Chapter 58: Wanted
"Umuu......"
I am observing the situation behind a bush.
Its been several hours since we picked up the second princess. Since there is a village nearby we must be cautious.
Nearby is the village that was plagued by the dragon corpse a while ago.
It seems what the knight said was true.
"Devil of the shield Iwatani Naofumi slaughtered imperial guard knights and kidnapped the second princess while escaping. Wanted dead or alive. The prize-"
On the notice board within the village, a piece of paper that has quite a large amount of price money declared on it by the soldiers of the castle.
Is this seriously only a few hours after? They seemed too prepared for this.
I knew this was a set up since the beginning.
For some reason they also assumed I killed off those knights that I caught.
I heard it.
If you strap a bomb on yourself and charge you will go to heaven.
These guys are putting similar insane thoughts to practice.
"The Imperial guardsmen knights have memorized an image of the criminal! The Imperial guardsmen knight who brought the crystal ball to the castle also died after duty was completed."
Furthermore. It seems that a hologram of me is being projected by the crystal ball.
My face was twisted with wickedness and,I am strangling the second princess by her neck, which also appears to be bleeding.
......Is that amount of fabrication even possible?
Should I make a habit of avoiding crystal balls at all costs in the future?
Though she looks pretty healthy despite being on the verge of death......
When I look closely at the second princess's face, despite the fact that she is being strangled, her expression is more shocked than painful.
By the way, the country of Silt Welt is located south east of Shirudo Furiden which is north east of our current location.
It seems that it's necessary for us to cross two countries.
That is considerably further than before.
We will somehow have to advance without being found.
"If you see the devil that has a strange bird pulling his carriage, contact the authority immediately."
<ref> minor term: country -- authhority</ref>
The crystal ball then shows Firo's image, and her expression is that of a bird of prey spitting poison from the mouth.
That's good. I can use poison since they put that in the forgery.
This is going to be a problem though, since Firo is our main mean of transportation.
We might have to leave Firo somewhere.
"So, Firo you understand right?"
"Noo~!"
As I finished scouting the village, I went to Firo to let her know.
If we continue letting Firo pull the carriage to refuge she will attract a lot of attention.
If it comes down to it Firo could just abandon the carriage and run off with her superior speed.
They would have a hard time catching her but we would lose everything.
So, I have to explain the situation.
"We can't help it. Because you stand out."
In the sense that she's an unusual demon.
She is the reason I am known as the Saint of the Holy Bird after all.
"Can't Firo just change into a different form before anything happens? Firo will work hard!"
"How are you-"
Firo's body shines and starts transforming.
She will probably pull the carriage in her human form anyway.
Her neck and feet started extending.
"Gueeee!"
Firo has transformed into a normal Philo Rial that resembles an ostrich.
Well, the size is considerably bigger than average I guess.
"Can you maintain this figure?"
"Gueee!"
She nods.
"Can you only chirp in that form?"
"Guee!"
"I see."
I guess we will be fine if she can keep this appearance.
"Firo-chan is amazing!"
The second princess's eyes sparkles as she begins playing with Firo.
"Gueeee"
This high pitched screeching is better than her toxic mouth anyway.
"When you're in that form be quiet."
"Guee!"
My head was gripped by her foot.
Naturally since Raphtalia and Firo rarely attack me they forget that it violates the slave mark.
The monster crest appears on her chest and she rolls over in pain.
"Gueee!?"
"Firo-chan!?"
"Seriously, what is it you don't like?"
"Don't use violence on Firo-chan!"
"I didn't. The monster crest only activated because she attacked me."
Though she is still sort of cute in this form, her communication is lacking.
Like this I don't know what Firo is saying.
It seems that this could be from my inner thoughts of "it would be nice if I had a pet that will unconditionally listen to me and not be noisy."
Firo returns to her human forms and starts whining like a child.
"It's painful!"
"You asked for it. Even you understand. Monsters can't attack their masters."
"Ueh......"
The second princess is strangely worried about Firo.
Is it because they are friends?
"For the time being, I'm assuming you are fine with disguising ourselves."
Up until now we were fine staying hidden as a saint, so it should work out somehow.
"Raphtalia...... can you make yourself look a little shabby, and wear a hat?"
So like this, the princess and I hid ourselves within the carriage while the transformed Firo and disguised Raphtalia took care of passing the village.
"Ah......"
Raphtalia meets the villager's eyes.
"......"
"......"
We pass silently.
"......"
"......"
The metal carriage passes the village as the soldiers watch.
"Wait."
We were halted.
I begin preparing for being found out, we should be able to deal with the people in this village.
"O-okay. What's wrong?"
"The other side of your carriage has a wing mark. It resembles the one on that devil bird......"
"N-no. I'm just a merchant.
"Hou......May I confirm what is inside?"
This is dangerous.
The soldier puts hand on the door of the carriage.
What to do. I may be fine since I am wearing common clothing and my shield is in the form of a book, but the princess will be recognized immediately.
"Ah!"
The villager who made eye contact with Raphtalia suddenly spoke.
"What's wrong!?"
The soldier turns around to face the villager.
"I heard that someone spotted the demon of the shield a while ago over there."
"Really!?"
The villager nods his head.
The soldier starts running towards the direction indicated by the villager.
"Over here."
The villager knocks on the carriage.
"Hurry, before it's too late."
It seems he's going to provide a hiding place for us.
What to do...... the deceived soldier will come back soon and that will be disastrous.
"Please go. I'll stall them here."
Raphtalia senses my hesitation and decides for me.
"But-"
"I planned to do this since the beginning."
Is that so?
The second princess and I get off the carriage when we arrive at the house, I cover her with a mantle as the villager guides us.
"There is nothing."
"Huh? Was I wrong?"
"No, you reported as ordered and even gave details, he just got away."
"I see"
The villager finishes deceiving the solder and he checks the carriage.
"Hmmm......There are only miscellaneous goods. Is this medicine?"
"Yeah, an adventurer asked me to transport it. Hahaha"
While in disguise Raphtalia answers with a wry smile.
"I see, well sorry I bothered you."
"No it's fine."
The soldier leaves to patrol somewhere else.
The villager points Raphtalia in the direction of the inn and she responds obediently.
"Hmm......"
We were peeping from the window of a private house.
I was very nervous.
That was pretty dangerous. If that villager choose not to help us there would have been an uproar.
"Saint-sama are you all right?"
"Ah yea......somehow."
"After Saint-sama saved the village we noticed you were actually the Hero of the shield-sama."
"And you guys don't condemn me?"
"Condemn!? No way. The Saint saved the people of this village. There is no way we will repay kindness with enmity."
"......Are we safe?"
The second princess anxiously asks.
"You're going to side with the devil?"
"We received various things from the Three Heroes church. But, the Devil of the Shield kindly saved us from the disaster that the God of the Sword caused."
The fight here was harsh. I also learned various things from this village.
It seems that the village is still recovering from after-effects of the plague.
"Although you might be called a devil,under these circumstances we would be even worse than devils if we do not repay our favour."
The villager points at the second princess is about to ask.
"This is just a little conspiracy."
"Well it's fine if the princess went willingly."
The princess nods at the villager's words.
"Currently there are those within the country aiming for my life. The Hero of the Shield-sama saved me......"
The villager nods in understanding at the princess's answer.
"I get it. Some of us might be ungrateful though.So you should quickly escape."
"......I know."
"There is a cart in the back that is fully loaded with straw. Please hid in it, and several villagers will carry you to your companion who is at the inn."
"I am grateful."
Thanks to the villagers who carried the cart of hay and distracted the soldier, we rejoined Raphtalia.
"As I thought we are in considerable danger in this carriage. Let's ditch it for something else."
"Gueee!?"
Transformed Firo informs me of her displeasure.
Her neck is shaking back and forth.
"Gue! Gue!"
"We can't help it! Do you want to be found and caught? The second princess, Mel-chan will be killed."
"Gu......"
Firo reluctantly falls silent at the mention of the second princess's life being in danger.
It seems she has become quite an important friend for Firo to care this much......
"You're great, Firo. You can let go of important things for your friend."
"Gue?"
I pat her kindly.
Even if I don't understand what she is saying, she choose correctly.
"After this is over we'll certainly take it back."
"Gue!"
Absolutely. I understand. <ref>That expensive metal carriage just get done days ago. It hurts to part this soon, is it, Firo?</ref>
"Sorry. Would you mind looking after the carriage here?"
"......Sure."
The villager seems to understand the situation and accepts it.
"I will be very grateful."
"You've already done enough for us."
"I see. Alright, Second Princess, come here. Change your clothes, we'll be discovered instantly with what you're wearing now."
"O.....okay"
The second princess doesn't seem very happy about the idea of wearing cheap clothing but given the situation she has no choice.
It seems that the apprentice's clothing from villager barely fits.
It's probably due to the villager having no children.
Compared to the second princess's usual clothing, now she looks like a shabby little villager.
Albeit a well-bred one since blue hair is only asserted with noble born children.
Well I can worry about that as we travel. There is no reason to discard her old clothes.
It will be a little awkward to bring it around though.
"Fill the bags with miscellaneous goods."
I put the more valuable things inside the straw cart and cover it.
Anything bulky was given to the villagers.
We should be fine going for two weeks like this. This stuff will be useful for the revival of the village.
"Alright, let's go."
"Okay"
We leave the village quietly and while the villagers see us off.
Well, we were still seen by another villager.
After this, our best bet would be to avoid towns and villages as much as possible.
The wagon made a rumbling sound as we began to run north east.
If possible I hope the village won't be punished for helping us.
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