Maybe a powerful wizard who is jealous of the power of both the Shield Hero and the Dark Lord. He wants to eliminate them and take their powers for himself. He could be creating false rumors about the Dark Lord to keep the Shield Hero against him while he plots his own takeover.
One idea could be that the Dark Lord has a hidden past that is somehow related to the Shield Hero. Maybe they were once allies in a different realm before being corrupted. Another could be that the Dark Lord is actually trying to protect the world in his own twisted way and the Shield Hero has to figure out his true motives.
Yes, the 'Rising of the Shield Hero' novel is completed. It provided a conclusive resolution to the various story elements and character developments that were introduced throughout the series. Many readers were pleased with how it all came together in the end.
The relationship between Naofumi and his companions also forms great stories. For example, his bond with Raphtalia, who grows from a weak slave to a strong fighter under his guidance. Their story is full of growth, loyalty, and mutual support.
Yes, it is. The story has an interesting premise with a unique take on the isekai genre. The protagonist is a shield hero who has to face various challenges and prejudices in a new world.