The summoning ceremony was brief and swift. Four heroes materialized: Naofumi, Motoyasu, Ren, and Itsuki. Excitement was quickly replaced by tension when Malty pointed accusingly at Naofumi.

"He assaulted me!" she screamed. Naofumi’s face twisted in shock. ***"I did no such thing!" ***he yelled back, but the other heroes already turned against him. "A coward, hiding behind a shield. You’re worthless," Motoyasu sneered. Ren and Itsuki stayed silent, but their glares spoke volumes. The king’s stern voice echoed through the hall: "Banish him immediately. The Shield Hero is no longer welcome here."

Time passed. Alone and cast out, Naofumi struggled but found loyal allies in Raphtalia and Filo. Together, they fought through waves of enemies, grew stronger, and earned respect from villages that whispered about the disgraced Shield Hero. After proving his worth through countless battles, the queen exposed the conspiracy against Naofumi, clearing his name. His reputation was restored, though the other heroes still held their doubts.

They now sat around a grand table with the queen at the head. ***"You've earned your place," ***the queen spoke firmly. "The Shield Hero has been wronged for too long." "***Maybe," ***Motoyasu muttered, folding his arms. "But trust? That’s not so easily restored." ***"Watch your words," ***Naofumi replied, his voice low but resolute.

Before more could be said, the doors burst open, slashed apart by unseen force. A figure stood silhouetted in the light, tall and imposing. "Who are you?" Ren demanded sharply, standing to his feet, sword at the ready.

The figure stepped forward, eyes cold and unflinching. Tension rippled through the room, as the unknown, fifth hero..Just apeard...