The Untrusting Hero From Another World

Five Months Since Summoning Day, Eliza, Age 15

It was early in the day, and King Shay walked with Xandric and me through the city, taking in the beauty. It wasn't a scenic trip, however. It was for us to take in the world around us and become more attached to the spirits, "Um, if I may ask, your Majesty..."

"Please, just call me Shay. If we are to work together, I'd rather do away with such titles."

"Very well, I understand the feeling. But what is the difference between Spirit Magic and our magic? The Heroes can project their spirits, but what about us normal people?" I asked with genuine curiosity. While I had heard of Spirit Magic, I never got around to learning it. I would rather learn one form to mastery, and Spirit Magic was less available.

"Ah, a good question and one with many answers," He replied, letting one feather out as if to count, something he would go on to do with each answer, "First, difficulty. The typical form of magic is easier for people to use via the use of formulas that come in the form of hand signs and chants. Spirit Magic, on the other hand, requires you to not only feel the spirits in the Space Between Worlds but also use your body as a channeler for them to perform the spell. Next is the effect. In theory, both forms of magic can do the same things, but one will do things better than the other. Spirit Magic creates stronger shields, heals faster than normal magic, and has a wider range of effects. Likewise, the magic you're used to is better for combat, large fireballs, earthquakes, and so on. Lastly is the use of tools. There is no material that can channel spirits like there are Mana, meaning you need to strengthen your body to be the channeler". That's actually interesting. I never thought there was a way to expand like that. We continued on our walk, and as we did so, I thought I saw the outline of a person.

"I think I saw one!"

"Me too; look over there," Xandric said like an excited child, prompting Shay to laugh.

"Good, you two are learning quick. Seeing them will be of great help with channeling," He explained before coming to a start, "Now it's time I ask, what would you like to learn out of this?" he asked, and we both looked confused. We know next to nothing, so anything would help, but I get the feeling he wants specifics, "You wanted me to teach you, and since I had to oversee the heroes' training, I did not ask, but now that they have learned to project their Heroic Spirits, you two have my full attention."

We looked at each other, thinking about how to phrase it. Xandric went first, "My power is called Kairos Sight. It allows me to see briefly into the future, but sometimes, I can't dodge as fast as I can see. I want a failsafe in case of that," he answered.

"And I just want to help more," I answered after a brief moment of thought, "My father always forbade me from contributing in battle. The only reason I'm here now is because he trusts the heroes with my protection. I want to add more than just firepower."

He hummed in response, lightly playing with the feathers on his head, "It seems your goals align quite nicely. I can start by teaching you both barriers. After that, I can focus more on teaching you healing," he answered, to which the two of us cheered like children, much to his amusement, "Let us get to work while your friends find new Goliaths."

Meanwhile, Ryan, Age 15

We all met up outside the city under one of the small palm trees. With us each looking for different beasts, we didn't know when we would see each other again, "Alright, guys. Remember the mission. None of us come back without at least one new Goliath. Stay safe"

"Oh, we will. Can't have you freaking out on our new toy because they hurt your friends," Makoto joked, making me turn bright red, and the two of them laughed.

"Oh, I couldn't believe my ears when Eliza told me that," Jaune teased, and I swear, I almost launched him through more buildings. Makoto quickly hugged me with a large smile I had never seen from her before

"You should be more open about how you feel, ya know. You don't need to be 'The Angry Nerdy Hero' all the time."

"I-I am not!!" I stuttered out with embarrassment, "Look, you idiots, just stay safe, if only so you can mock me some more when you get back."

"You got it, Ryan. Don't miss us for too long," Jaune joked, and we went our separate ways. Piloting Ric, I made my way to the Venjax Desert. It took me until nightfall to finally arrive at a small village surrounding an oasis. Travelers of all races lined the streets, making their way to Animari City. In short, a glorified rest stop. When I landed and shrank Ric, I was met by a man in bronze armor patched around light clothing approaching me. He had a massive horn spewing from his forehead, and his skin was tanned by the harsh sun.

"I take it you're the Hero Red I've heard of. I'm Nomar Dominic Phant; welcome to my village," He introduced, giving a small bow, "I must say, when King Shay informed me you would be assisting us with our Chimera problem, I was shocked. Surely, a battalion would suffice."

"Don't get the wrong idea. I'm not killing the thing. I'm drafting it," I answered, much to his confusion. I was trying to stay somewhat distant as it wouldn't shock me to learn Zeddral had spies or something, "Now, what can you tell me?"

"A-Ah, right. You see, a pack of Chimeras have set up shop in a cave not too far from here. They haven't made any moves yet, but they've caused no end of unease for the citizens."

"I know that. I mean, tracks? Hunting patterns? Anything that could help me form a strategy?" I asked, slowly growing annoyed before walking away to avoid flipping my lid, "Never mind, I'll do it myself." I wandered around, getting a quick bite to eat. Wait, if they're selling cooked crocodile, does that make Demi-Humans cannibals? I'm sure there are some Croc Demi-Humans, right? Tangent aside, I got a room at the inn afterward. I can't work if I'm dead tired. To my surprise, though, there was a knock around midnight, "It's open!" I called out, and Dominic was the one who came in, "Oh, finally got something useful to say?"

"R-Right, my apologies," He said, somewhat nervously, "That's all I really had to say. I should have welcomed you better. Though, you shouldn't need to be here in the first place?"

"You came all this way just to apologize?" I asked. This world will never cease to leave me dumbfounded by what should be the standard. I sigh, getting over my initial shock before nodding, "It's cool. Don't worry about it. Though, what do you mean by 'shouldn't need to be here'?"

He tensed up as if he said something he shouldn't. I take it he didn't want to seem ungrateful, "It's just that they're just Chimeras. That's hardly Hero worthy. Guards can handle the monsters while you all fight the Demons and their Shadows. We shouldn't be over-relying on you."

That's his concern? Well, I can't say I disagree. What will they do when we're gone, either dead or go home? I slowly sit up and nod with an understanding of his concerns, "Yeah, I've thought about it too. So how about this?"

The next morning, I went with a small bunch of guards. The village didn't have many, and they clearly weren't thrilled about it. They mumbled amongst themselves, "Are you sure this is a good idea?" Dominic asked

"You were worried about over-relying on me, right? This will keep your men sharp. You too, judging by your armor," I answered, lightly nudging him. His demeanor didn't exactly scream 'warrior,' but why else would he be wearing that? Once we were outside the cave, I took a stand where all the men could hear me, "Alright, furballs, listen up and listen good! You guys are gonna go in there and kill all but the strongest Chimera in that cave, got it!? While you're doing that, I'm going to enjoy my popcorn". That second part resulted in an audible gasp, followed by a furious uproar.

"Are you crazy?!"

"We could die on our own!"

"You're a hero! You're supposed to help us!"

"And what will you do when me and my friends are gone? Will you just wait to die?" I interrupted, stunning them into silence, "We're here to help with the problems that are too big for you guys right now. But I want you to push for a world where you don't need people like me, and that starts right here, right now! Now go bring me their heads!" I demanded, and after a moment, they began to roar out and charge in. True to my word, I watched as several beasts with the body and head of a lion, a goat head to the side, and a long snake for a tail came flooding out. Quite the big pack. The fight certainly wasn't going terribly, but it was far from good either. Many were injured, though thankfully, none were killed. The other guards dragged them away to safety. However, I did notice a major issue. Dominic. Don't get me wrong, he was an amazing fighter. He probably killed more in seconds than his men in the entire battle. But he wasn't leading. Taking note, I strolled through the battle, using my Draconic Presence to hold back any beasts that attacked me. While he was fighting, I slapped Dominic on the back of the head.

"Ow! Wh-What was that for?!" He stuttered out, cutting down another before turning to face me

"Look around you!" I answered, pointing to his injured men. He looked shocked before turning sorrowful, "Don't get down yet. Lead them. They need direction, and you're not giving it!"

"I-I know, but I..!"

"Look, you're nervous. I get it, but when lives are on the line, someone needs to step up!" I insisted, and after a brief moment of shock, he nodded his head and turned around

"Men, go for their tails first! They're venomous and have a longer range! After that, you only need to worry about the heads and claws!" he ordered, and they obeyed. After thirty more minutes of long, hard combat, all but the big ugly one inside the cave remained. I was ready to go in there only to be stopped by Dominic. "Before you go, I just wanted to thank you."

"Huh? What for?"

"For all your advice. Honestly, when you showed up, I thought you were a little stuck up. Still, even if it doesn't matter to you, everything you said means the world to me."

"You're right. It meant absolutely nothing to me," I answered bluntly, causing him to tear up a bit like a small child, "But it doesn't need to. If you got something out of it, then pass it on to everyone you meet". With those parting words, I entered the cave. To call it huge was an understatement. It was like one long, wide, stone hallway to store the massive pack, and at the end, there it was. This one was much larger, almost big enough to hit the roof. It slept through the battle outside. Talk about a bum. I slowly walked over, forcing its eye open, "Yo. Wanna become a giant robot?"

It groaned and slowly opened its eyes. I was expecting a fight but instead, it screamed and crawled back in what little space was left, "What the heck?! Who are you!?"

"Wow, I didn't think you could talk," I muttered in shock as it inspected me with all three heads, "My name's Ryan Harlow. Sorry about killing your friends out there."

"Fr-Friends?! N-n-no! They kidnapped me and..."

"Hold up, Chimera are capable of kidnapping?!" I exclaimed in shock, "I know there are otters capable of that in my world, but still, combined with your speaking a language, I can perfectly understand. You Chimeras are some smart cookies."

"Well... what's the human saying? T-two hands are b-b-better than...one?" It asked shyly, looking around, "M-Most Chimera's are more aggressive though... Talk first and a-a-ask later..."

"And you're different. Is that why they kidnapped you?" I asked, to which it nodded, "Ric, you sure we should take this guy?" I ask with uncertainty. It just seems so... nervous, like a scared little kid, whatever even qualifies as such in a world where basic humans barely look thirty by the time I'd be dust and bones. Hearing me, Ric came out of my pocket.

If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen from Royal Road. Please report it.

"Why don't we ask? Young Chimera, my companion here, is the Hero Red. He is looking for more creatures to become, well, like myself."

"You're a dragon. B-b-but you're so small?"

"It's for our convenience, I assure you. I can grow at any time," Ric answered, "Your soul will be transferred into a metal body, and you will fight alongside us to stop the demons. Is that okay?"

The Chimera seemed uncertain, thinking for minutes on end before nodding his head, "The demons aren't really my problem. But you s-sa-saved me, and I'll still be me, right?"

"That's right. What's your name?"

"H-Hellas..."

"Well, Hellas, I'm gonna send you to a Dwarven friend of mine. It may hurt, but he can be trusted, okay?" I asked, much to Ric's surprise. Hellas nodded, and I pulled out a device. It was similar to the teleporter the Hell Heroes broke. However, this one only had one location mapped and also shrinks the user prior to transport. I gently strapped it around his massive paw before seeing him grow ever smaller and eventually blipping away. One Goliath for me!

Meanwhile, Xandric, Age 116

"Let your body relax as if it were an empty vessel for the spirits," Shay advised as we sat there in a meditative position, "Resting like this leaves you open for the spirits. It's like a big flashing sign saying, 'I need you.' Of course, using it in battle will require you to move, but that's something you need to learn on your own". While he explained this, I already felt like something was in my body. When Shay went to strike us, I heard a loud crack and, upon opening my eyes, saw a broken scimitar in his hands.

"What on-?! Were you trying to kill me!?"

"O-Of course not, I was just testing your barrier," He answered fast, waving his hands in surrender until I finally accepted his apology, "But what was that? I was going to teach you barrier magic once you learned how to channel a spirit, but that? It's like you had a thousand all at once."

Eliza stood up not long after, brushing herself off as she stroked her chin in thought, "It's just a theory, but Xandric, your Shifter is powered by the souls of fallen Demons, right? she asked, to which I nodded my head. Where was she going with this? "It's possible that because of that, you have an easier time with it since you have them on you at all times," she explained, looking somewhat annoyed. What is so wrong with that? She is the one who proposed such a theory, after all. Shay, on the other hand, was ecstatic.

"A Transformation Device powered by souls to increase the user's physical attributes with the side effect being an affinity for Spirit Magic?! Simply amazing! You must tell me who made it!"

"Huh? Well, I don't know. A Vampire woman we captured helped Ritto make it," I answered as Eliza walked away. It left the two of us confused as a sorrowful aura surrounded her. Concerned, I followed after her, "Prince- I mean, Eliza!" I called out as I chased her down the stairs of the pyramid, "Is something wrong?"

"No, it's nothing important."

"Oh, so that's a yes," I muttered, "You were doing amazing, though. Did I say something that upset you?"

"Oh, no! It wasn't you! It's just..." she insisted but clammed up for a moment, "I just want something special, something only I can do. Jaune has his speed, Makoto can hit things we can't even see, Ryan is both the heavy hitter and the leader. All I have is my magic, and that won't matter once you reach Dai Shi. I thought if I could learn Spirit Magic, I could keep that edge and be more helpful". So that was it. I cannot deny that I know the feeling. I always wanted to do more so that my people didn't have to fight, let alone be transformed into the monsters they are now. But...

"You already have something none of us do," I said bluntly, much to her shock, "Your mind is far ahead of us all. Think about it, you realized the potential of the Hearts and commissioned the Goliaths; you saved me from that illusion, and that mind is constantly learning. You picked up the basics of Spirit Magic and applied it to a whole Dwarven District. That's no small feat."

She just stared at me for a moment before smiling, "I appreciate the idea, but I don't think that's enough."

"If not, ask Jaune. I'm sure he would tell you the same."

"Jaune. Why would his opinion matter any more than yours?"

"Well, with your little deal, I figured you two were closer than you and I," I assured before walking away to continue training.

Meanwhile, Jaune, Age 15

Cleaving through the jungle floor, I slowly inched towards the clearing, finding a small hut. This must be the place Shay told me about. Apparently, people making their way to Animari City mentioned something about a kind lady in a hut who turned monsters into stone and helped them along the way. Cautiously, I inched my way inside. For a rundown hut, it was cozy; a warm fire illuminated the building alongside a holographic television. In a small area in the corner, which I could only assume was the kitchen, a woman in fine but dirty clothing cooked her dinner, "Ah, welcome. Are you on the way to Animari City?" she asked in a sultry, almost seductive tone.

"Just leaving it, actually. I am looking for someone," I answered, trying to ignore her charms. After all, I was aiming to marry Eliza. Even if it wasn't for love, Mom would give me the thrashing of a lifetime if I cheated, "I've heard tales in these parts of a woman turning monsters to stone around here. Rumor has it that she is a Gorgon". She froze upon hearing that and turned to me.

"I see. Pray tell, what is someone as young as you doing hunting monsters?"

"Simply put, I'm no mere child. I am Jaune Allard, Hero Yellow. I seek the aid of this woman," I answered before Storm Stepping behind her. Had I looked up, I would have been turned to stone immediately. Luckily, even outside of Hero form, Storm Step is still faster than direct eye contact, "Seems like I've found who I'm looking for. Try not to jump the gun like that next time."

"You're fast. Tell me, what sort of aid are you seeking?"

"Power. The Demons are getting stronger and me and my allies need to beat them before they outpace us. I'm sure you understand the danger."

"I see. So you want me to end up like that Thunderbird you have in your shirt? I don't know. Perhaps we can come to some sort of...agreement". Agreement? I don't like the sound of that. But I'm getting that Goliath, no matter what!

Makoto, Age 15

Why did I need to get stuck with the sea?! I felt like I was about to vomit. Hopefully, we'll be there soon. There should be a Hydra somewhere in these parts. I continued to puke my guts out in whatever counted as a bathroom on this ship until...

"Um, Lady Blue! We're here," The gruff voice of the captain said. I wish he would stop calling me that, but he helped me outside, so he isn't so bad, "The Hydra is a fearsome beast. Are you sure you don't need help?"

"Not to capture it. Just stay close so I can leave as soon as possible," I ordered, holding down my urge to vomit as we dropped anchor outside a small island. I was so tempted to kiss the ground the moment I hit the ground, but I had a job to do. I stumbled forward, reaching the top of the mountain that essentially made up the entire island, and there it was, a hulking, green, scaley beast with multiple heads, "Um... Hello," I call out, hoping it is capable of speech. My attempt at an introduction was met with fire breath. I quickly used my Styx whips to swing aside. I guess sometimes we just have to fight. Using the rock formations to hide, I tried to think of a plan. If Kuroko were here, he'd have this thing figured out. He loved monsters. Think, what did he say?

'A monster that grows back his heads? That sounds hard to beat?'

'Oh yeah! But not impossible. You see, my dear sister, if you can cauterize the cut-off point, they can't regenerate!'

That sounds like a great idea, but how do I do that? I have water powers. I tried to think before a head looked over the rock I was hiding behind, breathing fire. Just then, inspiration struck. Instead of running, I latched my whip around one of its many necks and tightened it until the head snapped off. When it turned its flames to me, it did the cauterizing for me. From there, it was a simple rinse and repeat. Once the final head remained, it was as simple as hitting the right pressure points to knock it out. I landed down in front of it, physically exhausted, "There...Not so hard when you're not dodging five heads at once..." I joked before sending the beast to Felmi and returning to the boat for the dreaded ride home

2024, Jarred, Age 17

I carefully observe the people on the streets of Madrid, scoping out my next target as I read the news. There was another headline about the "Second Coming of the Gentleman Thief'. I never understood that nickname, turns out it comes from a French story. The man in question earned the title because of his manners and code of honor. I suppose that applies to me, though I guess my manner of speaking may not always be seen as such. It's not like it matters; it's merely a mask to get to places where a street rat wouldn't be allowed so I can steal and give out so that I and other homeless can live and experience a small piece of luxury. So many people are without homes. The least I can do is try to bring a smile to their faces. To that end, I stole a fancy suit and learned how to act around different social groups; thus, the Gentleman Thief was reborn. It had been two years since I began that, and now was time for the biggest mark yet.

"Oh, hello. Do you mind if I sit here?" A young girl about my age asked. She didn't dress like your typical girl. She wore a long red dress with black feathers along the shoulders, and her beautiful blonde hair was put together in a nice bun, and amber eyes that pierced the soul. Fancy

"Not at all. Have a seat, ma'am," I assured, motioning her to the chair across from me, "So what brings such a lovely young woman to my table?"

"Just trying to get away from my parents. They're attending some high-end fashion show, and I'm less than interested. If my bodyguards come looking, I can just say I'm on a date," She explained before letting out a giggle, "Sorry, I forgot to introduce myself. My name is Sabrina; Sabrina Morales. A pleasure to meet you."

My eyes widened in disbelief. I knew that name. The Morales family was one of the richest crime families in the world. I had heard the current boss married an English woman as a sort of peace treaty, but having a daughter? Much less one my age, Miguel, you dirty man. Still, I smiled as I plotted my newest scheme, "Jarred Aguilar, a pleasure to meet you, Lady Sabrina. You are welcome as long as you like. All I ask in return is a real date as a reward."

"You most certainly are bold, aren't you?" She asked, a smirk crossing her soft lips, "Very well. I'll call you as soon as I return home". After that, one date became two, two became four. It was a long con, and I think she genuinely felt something for me. I would hate to break her heart. Eventually, I hit the jackpot. She would sneak me into her family's mansion in the countryside, away from prying eyes. I was practically going into a Dragon's Den with more treasures than the whole of Spain would know what to do with. After a...entertaining night, I got out of bed and got dressed. Looking down at Sabrina's face, something about this felt wrong. I had done this same act countless times, so why did this one give me pause? Regardless, once I saw the flash in the window, I knew my friends had come. This mansion was too big for me to rob alone, so I simply opened the windows and would throw the goods to them. Pottery, jewels, and technology people like us had never seen before. It was going so well when

"Hey!" I heard a man shout as I was tackled to the ground. He tried to restrain me, but I easily kicked him off. While I preferred to avoid fights, I was no slouch when it was necessary. He would continue to swing, with me dodging and countering, trapping his arms every time. Our fight raged through the house, down the stairs, and even into the living room. The man tried to push my face into the firepit, though I used all my strength to resist. He didn't let up until he heard a voice.

"Daddy..."

I knew that voice all too well. Sabrina watched in her nightgown, eyes wide and tearing up. She clearly didn't know what was going on, but her father was stunned into silence. Taking this moment, I grabbed the nearby poker and used it to throw embers towards him, disorienting him. It was a spur-of-the-moment move, one that would cost me greatly. They attached to everything even remotely flammable. Soon enough, the house was ablaze, and instead of running or trying to put it out, I ran to Sabrina, grabbing her by the shoulders, "Run, now!"

"J-Jarred... What..."

"Listen, I know this is all confusing, and you'll hate me when this is done, but this whole place is about to-" I tried to explain, but I was grabbed by the throat from behind and slammed into the ground. She tried to pry her father off me, but in a fit of adrenaline-fueled rage, he threw her aside with ease, knocking her out as the flames only grew. Realizing the severity of the situation, my goal changed. I kicked him in the groin and hurried to pick up Sabrina. Dodging the falling pieces of burning wood, I got her out into the parking lot. Next, her father. He was still inside, coughing as the smoke filled his lungs. I slowly picked up the hulking man by one arm, helping him to the entrance, "Come on, big guy. Almost there!" I try to assure, dropping the formal talk

"Wh-why... I tried to..."

"It's not about you! You have a daughter to look after, right?" I asked before hearing something shaking above me. Carrying someone of such size, there was no way I could get out in time. So... I shoved him outside, allowing him to escape as the debris came down on me, and the rest of the house followed.

Five Months Since Summoning Day, Jarred, Age 17

"And that's how it happened. Next thing I knew, I was here and told I would need to fight Demons."

"I see," King Zeddral responded, seemingly pondering to himself

"If I may ask, boss, Why did you ask how I died?" I asked. He perked up, his apathy fading for a moment, "Are you okay? Don't get me wrong, you've always been calm, but recently, it's been different."

He nodded in response, informing me I was right on the money as he stood up and looked outside the window to his quarters, "I keep calm to keep my Void in check. I do not want needless slaughter, but I can feel it creeping. It's like a hunger, an all-consuming desire to kill. But doing so would only vindicate the Island of Light's reason for isolating us. But my wife is dead. My son betrayed me. If I cannot kill, then what is left but apathy?" he asked before saying as tiredly as ever, "I want this war my wife wanted done, no matter what. I had hoped your experience would provide an answer to end this. I want you to recreate those events on one of the Heroes. Use them to get us information so that we may finally end this". My shock must have been written all over my face as he nodded his head, "I know it may be uncomfortable, but..."

"No. Don't worry. I want to stay here. I'll do anything to assure that," I promised him before standing up to leave, "Oh, and...thank you, King Zeddral. Nobody's ever asked before."

Meanwhile, Shay, Age 952

The heroes all returned in quick succession, sharing stories about their capture of the beasts. Ah, the wonders of youth. It only made me dread what must be done next. I walked through the halls of the Pyramid before taking a teleport pad to a secure lab, using a code only a select few knew. When I looked around, Dwarves and Demi-Humans were hard at work, "Is it ready?" I asked the head scientist as I looked at the gateway in the center of the lab

"Yes, Your Majesty. Your Spirit Magic has been quite helpful in increasing the effects. But, sir, to go so far back. We don't know what could be changed if we mess with the past."

"Surely, it must be better than this. Those children have done a lot for our world. We should return the favor."