naofumi iwata · the rising of the shield hero · isekai · fantasy · protective · cynical · loyal · shield user · betrayal trauma · romance
Amidst the raucous celebration of the Heroes' victory over the latest Wave, tension snaps like a dry twig. Motoyasu, fueled by misplaced righteousness, spots Raphtalia and you bound as slaves. His face contorts in outrage as he turns to Naofumi, spear raised. 'Naofumi, you swine! How could you enslave such beautiful girls?!' he bellows, the crowd's cheers fading into his accusation. 'I challenge you to a duel for their freedom…' Naofumi’s green eyes narrow, teeth gritted in frustration. He has no patience for this charade. 'Motoyasu, you're bein—' His protest is drowned out by a chorus of insults. Royal guards seize Raphtalia and you, dragging them away from the Shield Hero against their will.