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Chapter Text

Subaru curled up deeper under the sheets and looked across the room at the sleeping princess he might marry one day. And then he fell asleep.

The theater lights slowly came on, illuminating the movie theater as the big screen went dark and the scene faded to black.

Despite all the interactions, there were two people concerned about someone. One was Rem, who felt something strange about her sister in the last few performances; she was much more aggressive toward her hero than usual. The other was Roswaal, who also noticed that annoyance in the pink-haired Oni.

Before anyone could say a word, applause echoed through the room, and in an instant, the twin Oni maids had disappeared without a trace.

Emilia, who was near Rem, jumped in fright when she saw that Rem was no longer in her seat, but it was as if she had never been there: "R-Rem? Where did Rem go? She was here a moment ago."

The other who reacted, but in a more impulsive way, was Garfiel, who, as always, was watching Ram. He opened his eyes in disbelief at her sudden disappearance: "Ram! Hey, guardian, where is she? My incredible being wants to know where you took her."

Roswaal narrowed his eyes, giving off a sense of danger: *Well, well, teleporting someone so easily is impressive, but... you should know that Ram and Rem are valuable people to us, so I would also like to know where you sent them. *

The others watched what happened in astonishment. They knew the guardian could do that, but without any explanation or saying anything first? Without a doubt, he left them confused by such an action.

Vielma: *Well, first of all, I want to ask you a simple question. * Didn't you notice Ram's attitude in the last few chapters and how her comments were more ruthless towards Subaru?

Emilia: *That's true, I called her out on it just like Ram, but... she kept talking about Subaru like that, but (as she put her finger to her chin) Isn't that how Subaru and Ram treat each other? *

Priscilla snorted amusedly: Ha, the half-demon continues to flaunt her ignorance and stupidity. It's obvious that something was wrong with that maid with her annoying attitude in my divine presence.

Al: *Actually, yes, she was insulting bro, but not in her tsundere way, but for real*

Mimi: *Maybe she was tired and bitter? Mimi also gets like that when she's hungry or hasn't slept well*

Tivey: *I don't think that's it, onee-chan. Emilia-sama and Rem-san told her to stop, and she just kept going*

Ricardo: *Yes, they were even more aggressive than usual*

Frederica: *I was also surprised by her attitude, but could something be wrong with Ram and that's why she's acting that way? *

Then some lights appeared above the seats and there they were, hugging each other and with eyes that looked like they were crying.

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Rem wanted to get up and talk to Ram. She wanted to ask her why she seemed so upset with her hero. Just then, she heard what sounded like someone clapping, and realized that she and Ram were in a different room, just the two of them.

Ram quickly got up and looked around to see that no one else was there. "Roswaal-sama, where are you? Rem, what happened? Where are the others?"

Rem didn't know how to respond until they heard a voice they recognized.

Vielma: *Hello! I hope your trip wasn't too abrupt, but you seem to be fine. First of all, the others are fine. Time passes differently here, so you can talk and vent as much as you want, while for them it will probably only be about five minutes at most. I'll leave so you can have some privacy. *

For several seconds or minutes, they didn't know the truth. No one spoke. Rem had her hands on her skirt. She wanted to talk about what was happening to her, but she didn't want to pressure her. Ram was looking everywhere except at Rem, her arms crossed, showing her pride as always.

Rem, with a sad expression: *Nee-sama...*

Ram: *I'm sorry, Rem. I apologize for everything, little sister. *

Rem opened her eyes at Ram's apology, but remained silent so that she could continue talking and expressing what she wanted to say.

Ram: *I was irritated... upset. What Barusu did... no, what Subaru did, I had to do a long time ago.

Ram dropped her arms to her sides as she continued not to look at her: *I should have been the one to pull you out of that hole you were in, I should have been the one to talk to you, that you weren't inferior, sometimes I feel good about what happened to the Oni village, how their ideas were like ours*

Ram, her eyes glazed over, finally looked at her little sister, who was staring at her in surprise at seeing her like this: *I knew about Roswaal-sama's actions, I knew he was there and that he could have changed something, but he didn't, I knew that... he would be willing to do anything to achieve his goal. *

Small tears fell from her eyes and traveled down her cheeks: *But Ram always thought that... Roswaal-sama could change, that Roswaal-sama could be a better man for us, to accept Ram's love, but Ram couldn't do anything. It was Subaru who challenged him and made him reflect a little. *

Ram sobbing: *Ram is... a joke, haha, the savior of the Onis, what a joke, my behavior, my attitude, and... my pride, that pride I felt, what kind of God was I going to be, huh? *

Rem didn't know how to react. Her Nee-sama, that strong woman she had always been, was breaking down in front of her: *Nee-sama, why do you think that? Rem wants to know why you've been like this with Rem's hero in the last hour*

Ram: *Barusu... Subaru has changed everything since he arrived. At first, I thought he was going to be the last piece on Roswaal-sama's board, but he has always remained firm in his determination and has not wavered*

Ram: *Subaru was the one who helped my little sister. His love for Emilia-sama, although seen as an obsession like mine for Roswaal-sama, is healthy and true, unlike mine for Roswaal-sama. Ram doesn't want to admit it, but... Subaru might be right after all, heh. *

Rem: *Do you think... Subaru-kun can help you try to change Roswaal? Even if that were the case, it's unlikely, nee-sama. You've seen what...

*I know, Rem! I know what he's done to you. I know what it's like to have expectations placed on you. I know the crushing pressure you feel, but... Ram still wants to believe that Roswaal-sama can change. *

Rem, holding back tears: *Nee-sama (as she approaches and hugs her) Rem knows that... you've had your own struggles, but we're not alone anymore, nee-sama. We have Emilia-sama, Frederica, Garf, Otto, Petra, and Subaru-kun. Only time will tell what he has in store for us. *

And so, the Onis twins drew a little closer, and perhaps fate can change what it has written for them.

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When they saw that Rem and Ram had returned, Emilia and Garfiel went to check on them. As they approached, they saw that it looked as if they had been crying for hours, even though they had only been gone for a few minutes.

Ram: *Little sister, if you cry too much, you'll flood the room. Let me know so I can tell Barusu not to learn how to swim in his next life.

Rem giggled: *Nee-sama Pft, don't be mean to Subaru-kun*

Emilia and Garfiel, seeing them like this, decided to give them some space and ask them later where they had taken them.

Meanwhile, Roswaal watched this with a genuine smile on his face.

When everyone was seated, the lights went out and the big screen came to life.

Subaru woke up early the next morning. The massacre from the night before still unsettled him, but seeing Emilia sleeping with a smile on her face across the room was a wonderful way to wake up. Subaru noticed something small and furry floating just above his head.

Did something happen last night that I should know about? Puck asked sharply. Well, I killed a troll last night, Subaru said with a yawn. Puck blinked, looking confused. Puck? Emilia asked sleepily, rubbing her eyes to wake herself up. Lia, are you okay? Puck rushed over to her. Emilia looked confused. Why wouldn't she be? Puck spun in the air and stared at Subaru.

Subaru sighed. The sun had just risen. It's too early to deal with a jealous, possessive cat who can read my mind and finish me off whenever he wants. For God's sake, Puck! Nothing happened! We even slept in two different beds! What do you think we did?! I don't know what you're worried about, Puck, Emilia said slowly. But I thought sleeping here would give Subaru and me more time to talk. It didn't seem like such a big deal.

Puck sighed. He looked at Subaru with annoyance. Just remember, Subaru, you and Lia are on probation. I still have my doubts about you. Subaru shook his head. And what are the odds that a mortal creature will live long enough to resolve those doubts? Puck didn't answer and simply accompanied a confused Emilia to the door. Come on, Lia. We have to get you dressed. Bye, Subaru! Emilia shouted as the little flying spirit literally pushed her toward the door.

Bye, Mili! he shouted as she disappeared around the corner. Subaru shook his head and laughed. After breakfast, Subaru and Emilia had sat down on the sofa to talk when a very annoyed-looking Beatrice entered the room carrying Puck. Subaru raised an eyebrow as Beatrice tried to climb onto a chair on the other side of the room.

Emilia squealed in embarrassment upon hearing that watching her sleep made Subaru wake up in a better mood: *Silly, but if it's in different beds for the time being, I wouldn't... mind* (While blushing at the thought of sharing a bed with her beloved Subaru)

Felt: *Really? Not even the older brother and older sister can spend time together because of that damn cat! *

Reinhard sighed at his lady's words: *Felt-sama, although you are right about privacy, you should not speak in such an unrefined manner. Perhaps I should tell Carol to re-instruct you on proper conduct and etiquette? *

Felt paled upon hearing this: *N-no! Anything but that, Rein. I'd rather face a Mabestia than have that old w... Carol teaches me again. *

Julius: *Even though the great spirit Puck wants to keep an eye on Emilia-sama, he should understand that... he might see a scene or two that would anger him. *

Ricardo: *Bwahahahah, I'm sure the mini-boss will think of something, he always manages to get his way in impossible situations*

Beatrice frowned: *Hmm? I guess he'll be doing that other thing, I suppose*

No, not here, Betty. Over there, Subaru heard Puck whisper. Beatrice turned to look at Subaru and Emilia. She looked completely humiliated, but she approached the sofa where they were sitting and, with some effort, managed to squeeze Puck and herself into the small space between Subaru and Emilia. Really, Puck? Subaru asked. Puck smiled at him.

What's going on? Emilia asked. Subaru chuckled quietly, having an idea. Oh, don't you see, Mili? Subaru asked in a sad voice. She shook her head, frowning. Beatrice feels lonely. That's why she's sitting here with us, Subaru explained, struggling to hide a smile. Beatrice jumped visibly while Puck looked confused. Betty isn't lonely! she protested. Betty just does what her Bubby...

It's okay, Beako, Subaru reassured her. We all love you. Oh, poor thing, you need a hug. Mili, help me hug her, Subaru instructed. Beatrice's jaw dropped. Emilia nodded seriously, and they both wrapped their arms around the Loli spirit.

No! Beatrice squealed. Betty doesn't need hugs! I guess Betty just needs her Bubby! Beatrice jumped off the couch, grabbing Puck, and ran out of the room at full speed. Subaru caught a glimpse of Puck looking at him in frustration as the two disappeared from the room. Subaru laughed.

Emilia looked at Subaru suspiciously. Subaru, what just happened? Oh, I was just having fun with Puck, Subaru laughed. Don't be mean to Puck! Emilia said, putting her hand on her hip. And why has Puck been acting so weird lately?

Weird? Yes! He kept asking me about what we did last night, and when I asked him what he meant, he got nervous and didn't answer me. And why does he tell me not to spend so much time with you? Every time I ask him, he admits that he likes you, so why doesn't he want me to spend time with you? He won't tell me!

 Beatrice slapped her forehead: *I guess Bubby is just too, too overprotective of the half-elf, actually.

Emilia: *Yeah... Puck has always been like that, even before, but he shouldn't act that way either, plus we didn't... do what he thinks we did.

Garfiel clicked his tongue: Tsk, he even has to get between the captain and the princess. Doesn't he have anything else to do?

Ram: *Hmph, anyone would be on edge if Barusu was present while he blatantly flirts with his daughters*

Rem: *Rem wouldn't mind Subaru-kun flirting with her all he wants, hehe*

Ricardo: *Bwahahahah, the mini-boss is going to have a hard time when the time comes, Bwahahahah*

Al: *If the father sees them in action right there, he'll kill the bro*

Subaru frowned. Maybe Emilia doesn't know how Puck feels about it. If she's really been alone for so long, except for Puck, she probably doesn't have much experience with human relationships. I know the cliché of the overprotective father from a thousand comedies, but Emilia is probably experiencing it for the first time.

You know, Mili started awkwardly, Subaru began. Parents often have problems when their daughters get involved... romantically. They can become jealous and possessive because they feel like someone is taking them away. They worry about not getting the same attention as before. It's an unattractive trait, but a very common one.

Emilia gasped. Are you saying Puck is afraid I'll leave him? she asked in a distressed voice. "No! No, I don't think he thinks that," Subaru disagreed. "It's just that... I think Puck is a little afraid of change right now. I don't understand. How long have you and Puck been together?" Subaru asked. "I think about seven years, since he thawed me out of the ice," Emilia replied.

Subaru stared at her. "Okay. I'm definitely going to ask you more questions about that. But for now, let's stick with the topic, Subaru continued. It's been just the two of you for almost seven years. That worked for Puck. He had you all to himself. But now there's the possibility that there might be someone else in the picture and that your attention will be divided. You might not have as much time for him. You might even decide that you love someone else as much as you love Puck. Those ideas scare Puck a little.

Wait, am I describing a father who is afraid to let go of his little girl, or a child who doesn't want his mother taken away from him? Or am I perhaps describing a father who acts like a little boy? I didn't mean to hurt Puck, Emilia said, sounding very guilty. It's not you who is hurting him.

Mr. Subaru and Mrs. Emilia, Ram said demurely as she entered the room. Miss Petra is here to talk to you. Subaru fell silent and took Emilia's hand. Emilia quickly composed herself and said, "Please ask her to come in." Petra entered the room looking overwhelmed by the mansion. As soon as she saw Subaru, she blushed completely. "Hello, Petra, how are you today?" asked Subaru. Petra did not respond.

Anastasia: *I think it would be Natsuki-kun's third option. Without a doubt, he acts like a child who wants to keep everything as it is, without interference.

Ricardo crossed his arms and raised his chin: *Without a doubt, I would take the mini-boss's first option. I won't let anyone take my little girl's precious hand without being worthy!

Mimi: *But Mimi wants to be with Garf* (Tivey quickly covered her mouth so there would be no conflict over her sister's love affair).

Roswaal: *Well, children have to spread their wings and make their own lives, don't they? Fufufu*

Felix looked at him with hatred, knowing that his children were only tools to keep him alive.

Felt couldn't stay silent: *Shut up, you fucking clown! You're the one killing them to continue with your shitty plan*

Reinhard nodded and spoke to the blonde: *Felt-sama, even though Margrave Roswaal must be judged for his crimes, Subaru will surely come up with a plan that benefits everyone. *

Frederica laughed at Petra's reaction on screen, while Petra herself blushed.

Wow. I recognize these signs. Someone is in love, with me, I guess, but Emilia isn't out of place. Why, even at home, are all the girls who fall in love with me half my age? Can't I attract someone my own age? What does it say about me that the only people who think I'm cool and mature are about ten years old? I suppose this tendency to attract girls half my age might be nice if it continues into my forties, but right now it's a real inconvenience.

Suddenly Subaru had an idea. Emilia, can I ask you to entertain Petra for a while? I have a task I need to do. I'll be back in a few minutes, said Subaru, getting up from the sofa. Of course, said Emilia, inviting Petra to come closer.

Petra seemed much more comfortable entering the room now that Subaru was leaving. Well, maybe it's not love at first sight. Maybe she's just scared of me after seeing me destroy a company of soldiers and a giant cyclops last night. I would understand, but it would still be a bummer.

After leaving Emilia and Petra alone, Subaru searched for Beatrice's library in the mansion. He found it on the third floor. "Ouch!" Beatrice cried out as soon as he opened the door. Beatrice dropped from the futon, hiding behind it like a shield. She raised one hand threateningly while cradling Puck in the other. "Don't come any closer! Betty's not in the mood for hugs!" she said as if threatening a battle to the death.

Calm down, Beako. I didn't come to bother you. Actually, I wanted to talk to Puck, Subaru replied. About what? Puck grumbled. About Emilia. Could we talk about that? Subaru asked. Puck let go of Beatrice's arms and floated toward Subaru with his arms crossed. Talk. Subaru sighed. Okay, Puck. I know you're not too thrilled about me proposing to Mili. So, I thought we could at least try to find some common ground.

Common ground? Puck said, swishing his tail. What common ground could we possibly have? Well, we both want Emilia to be happy, right? So, we have something in common, Subaru replied. Puck's eyes narrowed, but he didn't respond. Subaru sighed. Look, I know this is all happening very fast. Emilia and I have to stay engaged at least until the selection is over. By then, it's very likely that Emilia will have decided that I'm not the right man for her and break off the engagement.

Ricardo with a mocking expression: *And there he is! The lolimancer doing his thing as fate dictates Bwahahahah*

Petra was bright red: *W-well, it's definitely not the other thing Subaru-sama*

Frederica: *Haa, they grow up so fast, I remember when Garf was this small and look at him now with Subaru-sama fufufu*

Garfiel: *Hey sister, why are you saying that! By the way, the captain said cylops, wasn't it a troll*?

Otto: *Cyclops Garf, he said cyclops, and knowing Natsuki-san, it must be some kind of similar monster or something*

Al: If I remember correctly, besides their appearance, it's where they come from. Cyclopes are Greek and trolls are Nordic.

Anastasia was taking notes on these "Greeks" and "Nordics" so she could ask Natsuki-kun about them later.

Beatrice snorted: *Hmph, actually, Betty's Subaru should give me lots of hugs from now on, I guess. *

Emilia squeezed the black-haired boy's hand, restraining her strength so as not to (again) break his hand: *Silly Subaru, you're the only one for me, no one else but you. *

Oh, no, that would be awful, Puck said in an unconvincing voice. Subaru briefly wondered if Puck would survive the Indomitable attack. But Subaru snapped. That gives us two years to figure out how to live together. Why would I bother doing that? Puck snorted. Because you're hurting Emilia, Subaru said flatly. Puck stood completely still.

"Didn't you really notice?" Subaru asked. "Emilia gets really upset every time we fight. It makes her feel terrible. So, every time you and I clash, we hurt her. I could easily point out that you've been the one provoking all the fights, Puck, but I'm trying to make peace right now."

You don't know what you're talking about, Subaru. I would do anything for Lia, Puck said with a dangerous look. I'm on her side. Always. Me too, Subaru said. So, assuming we both mean it and it's not just talk, we have to find a way to understand each other. Puck narrowed his eyes. I won't let you take my daughter, Subaru! Subaru sighed. I'm not taking her away. If I thought it would work, I would have done it already. Don't you think I'd like to have her full attention as much as you do? Puck was startled and opened his eyes wide. Yes. I thought that's how he felt.

I'm not trying to take Emilia away from you because it would make her sad. It's that simple, Subaru said. If having you in her life would make her a little happier, if your presence would make her smile a little more often, why wouldn't I beg you to stay with her and do just that? My goal is to make Emilia as happy as possible. If that means sharing her with you, that's just what I have to do. Puck floated silently for a moment.

We have a common goal, Puck. We should work together to achieve it, Subaru urged. Puck looked away. Lia is... happier when you're around, Puck admitted after a moment. You're her first real friend. The first one who didn't treat her differently because of her appearance, he paused. If I killed you or sent you away, Lia wouldn't be happy.

Do you have to talk about my death as if you were swatting a fly, Puck? So, I guess the only solution is for us to live together and work together to make Mili happy, Subaru said. Hey, who knows? If we do this long enough, maybe we'll even grow to like each other!

Priscilla: *What a funny commoner, befriending that vermin who wouldn't hesitate to kill him. Well, all his companions have killed him at least once.

Felt rolled her eyes, fed up with her: *Could you shut up for a fucking moment, cow tits! Besides, the big brother will have to hear us out after this.

Julius: *Subaru, even though this other you are doing better than expected, you shouldn't let your guard down, no matter what. *

Tivey, adjusting his monocle: *I still think that this Subaru's luck is very reliable as far as I'm concerned. *

Al: *Wait, kid, surely fate has something in store for him. That bastard always has something for everyone. *

Mimi: *He says he would do anything for the half-elf, but... Isn't that a little hypocritical of him? He did nothing against the assassin who wanted to take my Garf, he did nothing against the lazy madman, so I don't understand. *

Everyone, but especially Anastasia's camp, looked surprised to hear the little half-human cat speak that way.

Puck smiled faintly. You're so optimistic, Subaru. You'd have to make Lia very happy before she decided she liked me. His face turned serious. Subaru. Don't make me regret this. I'm entrusting you with the most precious thing in the world. I think we can agree on that, Puck replied to Subaru with a slight smile. They both fell silent for a moment.

Puck, why don't you go see Mili for a while? I think she's worried she made you angry. Seeing you would do her good, Subaru suggested. Puck stiffened. Oh, crap! Does Lia think I'm mad at her?! He disappeared.

Now that you've taken Bubby from Betty, I guess you can leave here, Beatrice said sarcastically. Subaru noticed that Beatrice was now standing next to him with her arms crossed over her chest. I guess Beako decided she wasn't going to try to hug her right away again, Subaru thought.

You have a lot of books here, Beako said Subaru, ignoring her instructions. Why don't you keep them in the other library? I guess this is Betty's library. Her mother gave it to her to protect, Beatrice replied. And your mother is also Puck's mother? Where is she? Subaru asked. Ugh! I guess you stop asking stupid questions! Beatrice growled, sitting down on her stool and opening a large book, deliberately ignoring Subaru.

Subaru walked over to a bookshelf and picked up a book at random. Hmm. Interesting, he opened it and found a myriad of incomprehensible symbols. Ah, right. I forgot I can't read this language, Subaru sighed. That should be my priority right now. No one wants an illiterate person on the throne, Subaru reflected as he put the book back in its place.

Subaru! Emilia called from behind him. Subaru turned and saw Emilia, Puck, Petra, and the twins standing in the doorway. Subaru, the people of Arlam are holding a banquet today to celebrate your rescue. We're all invited! Emilia said with a smile.

Otto: *That's right, Natsuki-san, optimistic to the core, but if he weren't, he wouldn't be Natsuki-san, right?

Garfiel: *Of course, Brotto! The captain is the most optimistic and awesome guy my incredible self has ever met.

Emilia: *Why did Subaru say that? I doubt that other me would feel that way. *

Beatrice: *Actually, Betty's Subaru sometimes asks really stupid questions, I guess. *

Tivey: *Assuming that this Subaru has a better ability to analyze, I think it will be easy for him to learn at least the basics. *

Al: *Are you Natsuki Subaru because you're optimistic? Or are you optimistic because you're Natsuki Subaru?

Priscilla frowned: *What nonsense are you talking about, dog?

Julius: *A banquet for what Subaru did, they really look up to him with admiration.

Great! said Subaru, noticing that Petra was once again red as a tomato and staring intently at her shoes. Come on, Subaru, said Puck, floating toward him. If you're going to be the hero, you have to let people thank you once in a while. Otherwise, they'll feel guilty. Good advice, Puck said Subaru with a smile. I'll go prepare the carriage, said Rem, walking away. We should get moving or we'll be late agreed Ram, following her sister.

Subaru started to leave the library and paused. He glanced back at Beatrice, who was engrossed in her book, although, considering her eyes weren't moving, it was hard to believe she was actually reading it. Hey, Beako, do you want to come to the party with us? Subaru asked softly. Beatrice looked up from her book and glared at him. And why would Betty want to come with you, I wonder? Subaru actually smiled at this.

Well, I don't need Reason or Judgment for this. Beatrice acts angry, but she clings to that book as if it were a shield. Beatrice is afraid of something. I bet she really wants to get out of here and that her behavior is just a defense mechanism. Well, Subaru said thoughtfully. For starters, Puck will be there. Beatrice gave Subaru a look that wished him a very slow death as she put down her book.

Rem drove the carriage while Ram sat next to Petra. Emilia and Subaru sat in front of them, squeezed in by Beatrice, who was holding Puck. You know, Subaru, the girl was saying some very nice things about you, Puck informed him. Petra blushed bright red and tried to hide behind Ram. Unfortunately for Petra, Ram was not willing to accept that. "Stay still!" Ram snapped, and Petra froze.

Wilhelm nodded: "That's certainly true, Subaru-dono. Accepting their expressions of gratitude and forging a relationship with the village and its inhabitants would make them happy."

Ram: "Although we're always late because Barusu isn't fast enough doing his chores at the mansion."

Mimi: "Of course you are, pink maid, if you leave all your stuff to the mini-boss while you lounge around as if you were the owner of the mansion."

Ram shot a murderous glance at the little half-human while Tivey did everything, he could to shut her up.

Crush: *Subaru always has something to say at just the right moment. Maybe he can get the great spirit out of this stalemate? *

Meanwhile, the little great spirit watched the scene with hope, wanting to form a contract with her Subaru.

Emilia looked reproachfully at Ram: *Ram, you shouldn't talk to a child like that. Look how Petra-chan felt when you yelled at her like that. *

Frederica: *Poor Petra-chan. At least she knows what Ram is really like. *

Apparently, you became some kind of great hero while I was asleep, Puck continued. Sorry, buddy, Subaru replied. Next time I almost die, I'll wake you up so you can see it, Subaru laughed. Well, okay, Puck has been teasing me the whole trip, but at least he's taking it in stride. And he's been talking to me on this trip instead of just ignoring me. I know saying "buddy" is an exaggeration, but honestly, I think it's a really good sign.

Upon arriving in Arlam, Subaru jumped down from the carriage door. The entire square was decorated, and huge tables were laden with food. There was a crowd quite excited to see the carriage. Subaru stepped forward to help the ladies down. I remember seeing things like this in movies. A gentleman helps a lady out of the carriage, right? It seems like the right thing to do in this situation, Subaru thought.

Subaru held out his hand to Petra as she stepped out of the carriage. Petra blushed, but took his hand and he helped her down. Then Petra ran off into the crowd, probably looking for her mother. Ram came out next. Subaru offered her his hand, but Ram looked at it as if he hadn't washed it in a week. Then she jumped down on her own and walked away without looking at Subaru.

Beatrice came out next, holding Puck. Subaru offered her his hand. And what is this, I suppose? Beatrice asked. I guess I'm trying to be a gentleman, Subaru replied, wondering if he had messed everything up. I was going to help you down. Mmm. What makes you think Betty needs help, I suppose? she asked with a snort.

I didn't think you needed help. I thought you might need it, Subaru replied. Suddenly, he thought of something. After all, life can be incredibly lonely if there's no one around to help you, he added. Beatrice flinched and then became angry, but finally let Subaru take her hand. She fell gently to the ground. She walked away with Puck without looking back.

Emilia was last and smiled at Subaru when he offered her his hand. She took it and landed gracefully. They smiled at each other for a moment. Without thinking, Subaru reached out and brushed a strand of hair from her cheek. Emilia blushed but didn't stop smiling. Subaru coughed and looked away. Rem! Do you need help with the carriage? No, Mr. Subaru, said Rem, climbing down from the high seat without apparent concern and following her sister. Everything is taken care of.

Al: *Bro, he sure is patient with that guy. I would have said or done something a long time ago, and the atmosphere would be tense.

Priscilla: *Hmph, if the commoner lets himself be provoked by things like that when he could be leading a kingdom, sometimes you just have to let fool’s talk. *

Frederica: *Oh, Subaru-sama, how chivalrous, fufufu. *

Garfiel: *That's my captain! Of course, look how Brotto has them in his hands. *

Otto wanted to disappear because of Garf's recklessness.

Meanwhile, Emilia and Petra were red-faced, seeing themselves treated like true ladies, while Rem was pouting because she didn't let her hero help her.

Felt: *Ha, look how they wait for their big brother*

Ram: *Sir... Subaru? That's strange, since when do you call him that? *

Mr. Subaru? Emilia whispered to him. When did you start calling me that? Perhaps he is beginning to see who you are beyond appearances. A wise man once told me that your appearance says nothing about who you are as a person, Emilia said with a smile. I know for a fact that it wasn't a wise man who told you that, Subaru joked as the two joined the party.

The feast was lavish and festive. Subaru and Emilia were the center of attention. Emilia was nervous with so many people around, but she began to relax when she realized that they did not feel threatened by her presence. Subaru, on the other hand, was very distracted. He found it difficult to keep smiling and engage in the typical bland jokes of nobles and politicians.

Before the banquet began, the village chief had taken them on a tour of the village—a very brief tour, since you could see almost the entire village just by standing in the square. However, Subaru had learned two things that he thought would be of immense value. And a third that worried him greatly.

The first was when he saw an unplowed field. Excuse me, Chief, Subaru said. If you're worried about having enough food for the winter, as you said, why don't you plant there? The chief looked where he was pointing. Oh, we left those fields fallow this year. It's good for the soil, replied the chief. Fallow, I remember that word from school. What did they tell us? Wait a second! There's no need to leave the fields fallow. It was... Damn, where did I hear this? It was at school.

Ah, I remember! It was that idiot history teacher! Crop rotation! He insisted we learn about crop rotation for about three months. It was the most boring history class I ever slept through. I think Mom said the teacher had written a book on the History of Agricultural Techniques or something like that and decided to teach us that instead of world history. I remember the principal had to intervene before we opened our textbooks.

Emilia smiled at the scene: *That's what I want, for everyone to understand each other regardless of race, to be able to share as if they were one.

Felt had a mocking smile on his face: So now the big brother will know what it feels like to be surrounded by those boring nobles.

Anastasia: "World history? Sounds interesting. I hope this guardian translates the books in that library in Lugunicano. They would undoubtedly have interesting things."

Ricardo looked at the one-armed knight: "Hey, friend, do you happen to know anything about this stuff?"

Al shrugged, implying that he had no fucking idea.

God, I can't believe I actually remember this crap. Although, of course, he spent three months drilling it into our heads. We used to call it a legal form of torture. Or could it be that Reason and Judgment is refreshing my memory? "Hello, boss," Subaru asked. "What kind of crops do you usually grow here?" "Oh, usually corn, wheat, and barley," replied the boss. We don't make much money from anything else.

Those are all greedy crops. If you're growing them one after another, no wonder the soil around here stinks. Oh my God! I can't believe I remember all this crap. Oh my God! Please don't tell me I owe anything to that stupid professor. I just couldn't stand him.

There don't seem to be many animals around here, Subaru commented. Unfortunately, no. It's very difficult to feed them during the winter, the boss explained. He then continued the tour, pointing out everyday objects as if they were important. Emilia gave Subaru a questioning look, but Subaru mumbled Later, and she nodded.

Well, it makes sense that they don't have many animals if those are the only crops, they grow. They don't grow anything to feed the animals during the winter. I remember that jerk telling us that the four-crop rotation system was what allowed farmers to stop leaving their fields fallow so often.

Now that I think about it, I guess that also allowed them to have more animals, right? The cycle was... Come on, Subaru! This was a question on every weekly review exam for two months straight!

It was corn or wheat, then turnips, then barley... and then clover? Yeah, I think that's right. Corn needs a lot of nutrients, so it's grown first. Turnips don't need the same nutrients as corn and wheat, so they can be grown after the voracious crop without any problems, and I think they might even add some nutrients to the soil.

Ram: *Hmpf, as always, Barusu needs someone's help to do something so simple*

Felix: *Legal torture nya? What kind of knowledge can be so boring nya*

Al: *You have no idea, cat, although sometimes they are useful for getting a job or something like that, most classes are boring*

Anastasia: *I see, in addition to normal cultivation, they also do it for animals, so they wouldn't have any problems*

Tivey: Did they repeat the same question on every exam?

Beatrice: *I guess it's not normal to remember such a thing so quickly, actually*

Yes, I remember now! Two crops for humans and two for animals. Wheat and barley for people, and turnips and clover to feed the animals. Those forage fields allow us to raise and maintain more animals. Clover is supposed to be very beneficial for the soil. After feeding the animals clover, their manure is supposed to be rich in nutrients for the soil.

Could an agricultural revolution help Emilia and me conquer the throne? Maybe. Of course, the question is how do we start it and how do we make sure we get credit for it? Subaru's second revelation came when they briefly visited Petra's house, whose mother worked as a seamstress. The house was a small, one-room cabin that the family shared. Petra's mother had a small workshop near her bed where she appeared to be sewing clothes by hand.

Mom liked to sew when she was younger. It was just a hobby, but I remember that sewing machine she used. I remember one year it broke, and before we threw it away and bought a new one, she and Dad opened it up so I could look inside. To show me all the gears. Yes, I remember that at that age I loved Legos and gears, so the inside of the sewing machine was pretty cool. I... I think I remember how it worked. I think I remember how all those gears fit together. Could I make one? If I got someone to make gears, could I make a sewing machine? I think so. And if I did, how much would it be worth?

It wasn't until Subaru was sitting next to Emilia at the banquet and trying to keep a smile on his face that the third revelation occurred to him. Okay, Subaru. We need to have a very serious talk. You realize this is all nonsense, right? Subaru thought. Oh, yes, you remember perfectly well how complex crop rotations are. You read about them in a class you fell asleep in five years ago. It all makes perfect sense.

And, of course, you remember how that old sewing machine worked. You stared at it for a full ten minutes when you were eight years old. It's only natural that it stuck in your mind. Wake up, Subaru. You're not that smart or that creative, and every teacher you've ever had would agree. How do you remember all this?

Beatrice: *Actually, I don't think so. Even if you have a good memory, it would take some time to remember such things.

Julius: *It's hard to believe, but... Subaru is proving it, he's remembering things that should be difficult. *

Crush: *I agree, even though Subaru can remember even the smallest details because of his loops, this is different, these things are more difficult to do. *

Anastasia finished writing, since she was right about the crops and would undoubtedly try to research absolutely everything about that topic.

Subaru rubbed his face as he tried to process all of this. It has to be Reason and Judgment. It's actually making you smarter. That's the only logical explanation. Well, then why is that bad? It's good, right?

Well, maybe yes, maybe no. Indomitable makes me feel like my heart is going to burst like a soap bubble every time I rely on it too much. So, what is Reason and Judgment doing to me? So far it seems free, but what if it comes at a very high price and I just don't know how much it is? Could it be affecting my mind? If it changed my behavior and personality, would I even be aware of it? There's no one here who could warn me if my personality was changing. None of them know me well enough to recognize the signs.

Come to think of it, even if that were happening, what could I do about it? I could stop actively using Reason and Judgment, but if this theory is correct, just possessing them could also have a passive effect on me. Even if I knew for sure that it was poisoning me, how could I turn them off completely?

Well, maybe that's the real answer. If I can't do anything about a problem, I shouldn't worry about it. I should try to be aware of it, just so I know what might be going on, but even if I prove this theory, unless I can think of a way to mitigate it, I'm better off ignoring it.

That said... maybe I should reduce the frequency with which I activate Reason and Judgment. I should probably save it for emergencies until I have a chance to think it through. It will be difficult to stop using it, but I can do it. At that moment, another carriage arrived in town, a carriage that Subaru recognized.

Roswaal: *Hmm~ interesting Subaru-kun~ but nevertheless we are talking about an Authority, which is totally opposite to divine protections, therefore, we don't know if it is more compatible with it*

Reinhard: *It could increase the power of the Authority, perhaps even allowing the reasoning ability to be activated all day without the need to stop time*

Ram frowned: *What Rem said earlier suddenly changed Barusu's attitude*

Otto: *Are you suggesting that the Authority Natsuki-san has could influence others*?

Felt: *Wow, look Rein, we're here with the big brother and big sister*

Perfect. I needed a distraction right now, Subaru said with a smile, getting up from the table and walking toward the carriage just as Reinhard van Astrea was stepping out of it. Red! Subaru shouted, approaching the carriage. My lord, Reinhard said with a bow. It's wonderful to see you... ugh! Reinhard choked as Subaru hugged him. Good to see you, buddy! Subaru smiled, taking a step back. Reinhard couldn't help but smile. You too, my friend.

Red? asked a girl's voice. I like it! said Felt, jumping out of the carriage. That's officially your new name, Reinhard! she said, laughing. "Hello, Felt, welcome to Arlam," said Subaru, approaching her. "A handshake is fine, I don't need a hug," Felt warned him. "Okay, but this is a special deal, just this once," Subaru warned her before shaking her hand. Felt chuckled. Emilia was also approaching the carriage.

Good news, my friend. The council of elders ruled in Lady Emilia's favor, and she will be able to continue participating in the selection, Reinhard told her. Great. That's good news, Subaru said, trying to sound enthusiastic.

Wow. Strange. You'd think he'd be happier. I guess I just stopped worrying about Emilia's disqualification. I mean, don't get me wrong, two chances to win are much better than one, but if Emilia had been disqualified, I would have simply promised her that I would give her the throne or, failing that, give her the blood. ...Maybe I even secretly hoped she would be disqualified. That way, she would be completely dependent on me.

My goodness, Subaru. You're a mess. You should submit to Puck for disciplinary action.

Well, the truth is, I'm not disappointed that Emilia is still in the selection. So at least I'm not a terrible person. I mean, even if she became queen, it's not like I would have left. Well, not unless she asked me to. The truth is, when we first met, I was sure it was only a matter of time before she told me I was bothering her and that I should go somewhere else. But in the last few days, something has changed. In fact, I'm starting to wonder if maybe she wants me to stay.

Reinhard smiled at this: *Although I admit I would like to have that friendship with Subaru as he said, it seemed as if it were convenient* (Giving a shy smile at what he said)

Felt snorted: *Oh come on Rein, or should I call you "Red" too? It sounds great, actually*

Emilia grimaced at her knight's thought: *Subaru, why do you say such things? That sounds bad, young man*

Julius: *You should learn proper knightly behavior, as well as etiquette and other functions that you should know correctly. *

Al: *You know, Julius, now that I think about it, you're like a character from my brother's and my world. He was a fanatic about rules, and the slightest thing was like the end of the world. *

(Author's notes) (A while ago I saw the fic Seeing the Symbol of Hope and yes, Ilda and Julius are exactly the same, brother. By the way, blackfenix, if you see this, you're awesome, and the hero born of pain is good too).

Garfiel scratched his head in confusion: *Why does the captain mention that? I doubt the princess said that to the captain*.

Well, I'm certainly glad to see you, Felt, but what brings you here? asked Subaru. Well, Red was away on a trip and wanted to ask you some questions, said Felt with a smile. Oh, really? replied Subaru.

The real reason is that I feared for Miss Felt's safety in the city during my absence, interjected Reinhard. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I've discovered that my fellow guards aren't as... fair as I thought. After Miss Felt's testimony, which the captain of the guard disapproved of, I feared he would take advantage of my absence to harm her, so I asked her to accompany me.

Subaru nodded. Well, I'm glad to see you, Felt. I'm sorry it's not under better circumstances. The truth is, I'm glad you're here because I wanted to offer you a job. Really? she asked in surprise. Yes, but we'll go into details later in private.

"Hello, Miss Felt," Emilia greeted them, approaching them. Felt bit her lip and looked down. "Uh, I just wanted to say... I'm so sorry for stealing your badge, Lady Emilia," Felt whispered so no one else could hear. "I thought it was just jewelry. But Reinhard explained how important it was and the trouble I caused you and Subaru by taking it, and I'm so sorry."

Emilia's eyes widened and she patted Felt on the head. Don't worry. I think everything turned out fine. If you hadn't accepted it, I would never have met Subaru. Good point, Subaru agreed. Felt looked at Emilia in amazement. Wait, that's it? Damn. I spent the whole trip here thinking you'd want to give me a good scolding several times.

I told you so, Reinhard commented quietly. Felt put her arms behind her head and laughed. So, Subaru, I heard the good news about you two! Where's my invitation? I thought we were friends! Subaru laughed, and even Emilia chuckled. I promise you'll find out as soon as we pick a date. Right now, it looks like it'll be at least two years. But hey, you're here now, so join the celebration!

Felix: *I guess rumors fly nya, probably about the troll and Gusteko's soldiers nya*

Crush: *Certainly, Ferris, I always start with rumors, only for them to be denied or, in this case, for the events to be confirmed*

Tivey: *Well, if someone said that a single person defeated a troll, but how many were there? Forty soldiers in total? I think I would doubt such information*

Otto: *Even though he let some of them escape, there will still be some who don't believe what happened. *

Felt: *Heh, look at those two lovebirds. Although, yes, I would expect the older sister to at least give me a slap on the head or something similar. *

Al laughed: *Heh, now you'll be Lugunica's cupid. *

Emilia: *Invitation from Felt-chan? Date? (Until she remembered and was embarrassed by the question.) O-Oh, about that, ahem, yes, of course. *

Roswaal looked directly at Frederica as she tried to use the Drax technique of staying incredibly still so that no one would see her, failing in the process.

Yes, well, before we do that, I have a question for you, Subaru said to Felt. What is it? There are a lot of rumors about you going around town, Felt said. Whatever it is, I have an alibi. I was with Emilia, Subaru said seriously.

Felt laughed. Well said. No, they say you fought a troll alone. Actually, they say you not only fought the troll, but killed it with your own hands. Even the wise men seemed to believe it. Stories about Subaru the Invincible are told all over town. Is there any truth to that?

Of course not, Subaru laughed. Felt held out her hand smugly, and Reinhard dropped a gold coin into her palm with a sigh. The troll had a battle axe. I took the axe from him and used it to kill him, Subaru concluded.

Felt's jaw dropped, and a smiling Reinhard deftly took the coin from her hand and returned it to his pocket. Subaru narrowed his eyes. Is it just me, or does Red seem really pleased with himself? Huh, Felt? I guess Red bet a gold coin that the rumor was true, but you're not going to give him any money, so what did you bet? Felt sighed and covered her face. Don't ask, she groaned. The group returned to the mansion shortly before sunset.

Miss Ram, I spoke with Lord Roswaal before leaving the city, Reinhard said. He asked me to deliver these letters to you. He handed her a stack of envelopes. Please make sure the seal is intact, Reinhard finished, staring intently at Felt. Felt crossed her arms over her chest, muttering to herself. Thank you, Sir Reinhard, Ram said with a shallow bow. I'll find a room for Miss Felt. Sir Reinhard can return to his original room with Lord Subaru.

Garfiel's eyes lit up at his captain's nickname: *Subaru the Invincible, of course! That's why he’s, my captain. Someone as cool as him is worthy of that nickname! *

Reinhard: *Even if Miklotov-sama is the first to believe in Subaru's feat, the others, especially Bourdeaux-sama, won't believe it even if there is evidence. *

Anastasia: *In addition to his commitment to Emilia, and knowing how he is with demi-humans, his stress will increase greatly. *

Mimi: *But if he doesn't have hair, then... will his eyebrows fall out too? *

Felt: *Remind me, Rein, never bet with my older brother. Only Od will know if he'll succeed. *

Roswaal: *Well, well, what does that other self-have prepared to send correspondence~ in that way, how interesting*

Ricardo was laughing: *Bwahahahah, thank goodness the mini-boss didn't have fun last night, otherwise poor Reinhard*

Meanwhile, the female cast blushed at Ricardo's words.

Ram, you're mean, Subaru complained. Ram looked at him strangely. Subaru blushed. Oh, right. The only ones who know where Emilia slept last night are Emilia, Puck, and me! Ram noticed that Emilia had turned a similar shade of red. Ah, Ram said with a teasing smile. Well, if anyone wants to change the bed arrangement, just let me know. I wouldn't want to be cruel. Subaru nodded awkwardly.

I'm afraid I don't understand, said Reinhard, confused. I'll tell you later, sighed Subaru. Felt tried to hide her laughter and failed miserably. Oh, don't worry, Subaru, said Puck with a yawn from Beatrice's arms. He sounded smug, but not entirely cruel. You'll see her tomorrow. Frankly, I'm ready for bed myself.

The truth is, I was hoping to see you right now, Emilia said to Subaru. Would you like to take a walk in the gardens before bed? I wanted to talk to you about a couple of things. That sounds nice, Emilia agreed. Puck frowned. Lia, maybe I should... Emilia stopped Puck with a calm and patient look. The spirit cat sighed. Lia, don't stay up too late. I won't, she promised. Puck disappeared.

Well, it was nice having you with us tonight, Subaru said to Beatrice. Beatrice looked away and crossed her arms. Mmm. I guess Betty enjoyed spending more time with her Bubby. You're welcome, Subaru said with a smile. Beatrice looked at Subaru bitterly and then walked away without saying a word. Red, why don't you and Felt go upstairs? I'm sure you've had a couple of very long days, Subaru suggested. Reinhard nodded.

So that's what I think, Subaru concluded as he walked through the garden, hand in hand with Emilia. He had told her his two ideas. He was sure they could implement Crop Rotation. The sewing machine was more doubtful. He hadn't said anything about his new concerns with Reason and Judgment. For starters, he had never told her about Reason and Judgment. He had thought about telling her, but something had always held him back.

Well, if I told her about Reason and Judgment, I would also have to tell her that I'm worried it might be affecting me negatively. I don't want her to worry. For starters, I'm not sure if it's happening, and even if it were, what could we do about it? It's probably better to keep Reason and Judgment to myself for now, Subaru thought.

Ram crossed her arms: *Hmph, I shouldn't even worry, Barusu is such a coward he can't do anything.

Rem: Nee-sama, I think Subaru-kun is just very respectful. Even if he has those thoughts, he shouldn't throw himself at Emilia-sama like that* (Haa, I wish he would throw himself at me, I wouldn't waste any time with my hero).

Unlike the screen, Felt was laughing at the situation she was seeing: *Hahahaha, for Od Rein's sake, you really didn't get it the first time? Even I understood*

Reinhard was almost as red as his hair: *N-no, that's not it, Felt-sama. I'm sure that other me just wasn't paying attention to the situation, plus that's... something private*

Petra: *At least it seems that Emilia-sama has better control over that spirit than ours, so it shouldn't cause any problems, right, Frederica nee-sama? *

Anastasia: *Hmm? What could Natsuki-kun be thinking, talking to Emilia at this hour? *

Julius: *Probably Anastasia-sama, it's about what she told him in Arlam. he surely has some idea for improving the crops besides that sewing machine. *

Anastasia turned her gaze to Tivey, who was already prepared to write down any useful information on the matter.

Beatrice pouted cutely: *Hmph, actually, Betty's Subaru should think a little more about himself, I guess. *

Meanwhile, Emilia pinched the black-haired boy's cheek and called him silly for thinking that.

Yes, it's a great excuse. Heck, even I don't believe it. I'm hiding it from Emilia for a reason, so she'll continue to be impressed by my intelligence. She knows about Indomitable, but talking to her about Reason and Judgment feels... much more personal. The magic that affects the outside world is one thing, but if Reason and Judgment are really what's behind all my deductions and intelligent decisions, then is it something of mine? Am I really responsible for anything, or am I just a shell wrapped in Reason and Judgment? 

I like this new me. I feel smart. I feel capable. I don't want to go back to being the old me, and I definitely don't want to see her reflected in Emilia's eyes. Emilia looked thoughtfully into the distance. She had listened carefully to Subaru's plans. She vaguely understood his comments about crop rotation, but Emilia had never seen a clock. So, his description of a sewing machine and its gears and levers was completely unfamiliar to her.

Why didn't you talk to the boss about crop rotation? Emilia asked. Subaru shrugged. Well, I want to give him the idea, but I also wanted to see how we could use it to help our camp. The campaign is going to start soon, and we need a strategy to win. Starting an agricultural revolution could help us, but I don't know how much or how we could take credit for it.

Emilia looked at Subaru sternly. Subaru, you're talking about something that could ensure everyone in the kingdom has enough food. We should focus on that and not the royal selection!

It's not a question of either/or, Mili replied to Subaru. Yes, if it's a choice between getting that dragon blood for yourself or saving lives, I definitely think you should choose the latter, and I'm proud of you for doing so. However, that's not the choice we're facing. Right now, the question is, can we think of a way to achieve both goals at once?

Ram: *Hmph, yeah right, although you have to admit that Barusu is useful for some things, mostly he just does crazy stuff while we solve it.

Al: *Solve it? What have you done, Oni without a horn? Besides being nice...

Ram glared at him when she heard that: *First, any insult to Roswaal-sama will get you in trouble with me, and second, I do what I can, and that's a lot*

Otto: *Can we talk about the possible influence that Authority of Pride might have? Because if so, anything Natsuki-san might wish for will come true*

Wilhelm: *He is proud of himself at the moment, and if it happens to increase the effectiveness of the authority by giving him more power, in a sense Subaru-dono is right. *

Roswaal: Wow~ Subaru-kun, that would be very greedy of you~ fufufu, how fun it will be to see this. *

Crush: *It's a good decision, not only to help others but also to get closer to the goal. *

They walked in silence for a moment. "What if we announce it in the selection?" Emilia suggested. "We declare that we will bring agricultural innovations to Lugunica and promise to eliminate hunger and revitalize the economy in our territory." "I think that's a good idea, Mili. I mean, it would be good to have a domain," Subaru said, chuckling. Arlam is the only place that currently supports us, and even that is a little questionable due to their primary loyalty to Roswaal.

Who supports us too! Emilia pointed out. If you told Lord Roswaal about these ideas, don't you think he would be interested? Why not? You're describing a huge improvement for his kingdom. The peasants would be happier, better fed, more productive, and trade in the kingdom would skyrocket! All of this would make Lord Roswaal richer and more powerful. Of course he'd be interested in trying it. You should tell Sir Reinhard too. He's one of the leaders of his family. Maybe he can convince the people in his domain to try it too.

Subaru gave Emilia a teasing smile. Damn it, Mili. When did you get so smart? Emilia looked away with a smile. What? Didn't you think I was studying in the library every day? Did you think I was just pretending? Actually, I always assumed you were just playing with a magical flying cat, Subaru replied. Emilia playfully pushed Subaru away with a laugh. When Subaru approached Emilia again, instead of taking her hand, he put his arm around her and they walked like that.

Emilia smiled as she leaned toward Subaru, resting her head on his shoulder. Puck had a lot to say about you today, you know? Emilia whispered with her eyes closed. Whatever it is, I'm innocent, Subaru replied. Not that, silly! Emilia said, playfully swatting him. He said he was glad to have you there to help me when Puck wasn't around. Wow, what a compliment from an overprotective father! I'm speechless, Subaru replied.

Emilia tried to push him away again, but this time she was so clumsy that Subaru wrapped both arms around her waist and pulled her close. Emilia smiled at him as she shyly wrapped her arms around his neck. Subaru's mouth went dry as he looked into those beautiful amethyst eyes. A man could drown in those eyes; a man could be pulled down. I'm glad Puck feels better about... us, he muttered awkwardly. Me too, Emilia whispered. Mili, how do you feel about us? Subaru asked.

Emilia's face turned red, but she didn't look away. I'm not sure. I don't know much about these things. I just know... I like how I feel when I'm around you. Subaru broke into a big smile. You can't keep saying things like that to me, Mili. You'll make me burst with happiness.

That's not fair, Subaru! Don't change the subject! You still haven't told me how you feel about me! Emilia scolded. Subaru hugged her tighter. They were so close that their breath mingled in the cool evening air. I think you're the most amazing person I've ever met, Subaru said seriously. Subaru... Emilia whispered.

Anastasia: *It's a good idea, Natsuki-kun could start by talking about future agricultural innovations, and if he manages to make that machine for seamstresses, that would also help. There would only be one topic left to discuss. *

Wilhelm narrowed his eyes: *The... white whale, Subaru-dono will help us or... we'll be just another bunch of miserable victims. *

Al: *With bro's luck, he'll surely get involved, although we'll have to see who they ally themselves with. *

Emilia was pouting: *Silly Subaru, I do study, and just so you know, young man, I can be smart at any moment. *

Beatrice looked at her with a tired expression: In fact, she can achieve intelligence, but the half-elf is faster, I suppose. *

Some tried to stifle a slight laugh, while others did not.

Meanwhile, Rem sighed as she watched the romantic scene between the two of them: *I wish Subaru-kun could have moments like this with me too. Rem will do everything she can to make him feel good. *

Subaru moved his face just a centimeter and their lips met. The world around them faded away and nothing remained but her. Her vitality, her breath. The softness of her hair, the faint sound of her breathing, and the warmth of her body cradled in his arms. It was a blissful, perfect moment that, according to Subaru, would last forever. And then they separated.

Emilia looked away shyly, but she was still smiling. You know, I've been waiting for this moment since the day we met, Subaru whispered. Subaru, it's only been six days! Emilia laughed. Really? That short? Because I feel like I've known you my whole life, Subaru said seriously. He put his arm around her waist, and she briefly snuggled against his shoulder as they continued their walk. Me too, she whispered.

Subaru was singing to himself when he reached his room. Reinhard was in the process of getting ready for bed. Hey, Red, how are you? Subaru said, flopping down on his bed and taking off his shoes.

"Pretty good," Reinhard said with a slight smile, climbing into bed. "You seem to be in a very good mood tonight." "I sure am! I'm on top of the world, man!" Subaru laughed, getting up to undress. Then, he thought of something. Hey, Red, are you tired? Not particularly, is there something you need help with? No, I was just hoping to get some more details about what happened at the Capitol, Subaru said, sitting down on the bed.

Reinhard looked up at the ceiling and gathered his thoughts. I arrived at the tavern and located Master Rom and Miss Felt. As you predicted, Miss Felt didn't seem to be in danger of being discovered by the guard anytime soon. I explained the situation to her, and Miss Felt agreed to help. I hid nearby while the guard confronted Felt and she gave her statement, Reinhard hesitated. I am forced to admit that these gentlemen did not live up to their titles.

Our half-elf's face turned so red that it seemed to light up the room, while she moved her index finger to her lips, remembering the first time they kissed, feeling the ghost of the black-haired man's lips.

Ricardo whistled at the scene: *Wow, the mini-boss sure doesn't waste any time, Bwahahahah, always giving it his all*

Al: *Subaru, you're such a charmer. I hope you don't go too far with the young lady, hehe, or you'll end up with a baby bump*

Petra watched the scene longingly. For her, this was the most romantic thing she had ever seen, hoping that one day someone (ahem, Subaru) would treat her like in a princess story.

Garfiel: *Brotto, does this princess know the truth about babies? Or do you think she'll make the same mistake and think she's pregnant? *

Otto: *I think... the same thing will happen as at the shrine. Considering Emilia-sama's reaction, I can tell she doesn't know anything about it. *

Felix: *Nya, Subaru-kyun will surely want to know if he got Felt into big trouble, nya*

Tivey: *Maybe he just wants to know how everything unfolded, or so I think*

Felt: *Knowing my big brother, it will be like the cat said, he'll want to know if I'm in danger or something like that*

How so? They threatened Miss Felt, Reinhard almost growled. With physical violence and worse. These men deserve no respect, let alone a noble title! Subaru watched Reinhard closely for a moment. I guess you were close to these guards, Subaru said sadly. Reinhard closed his eyes. One of them was my father. I'm so sorry, Subaru murmured.

Reinhard took a deep breath and seemed to forget about the matter. Since I didn't want to endanger Master Rom or Miss Felt, I decided to spend the night with them in case anyone came back to cause trouble. Subaru raised an eyebrow but said nothing. The next morning, I went to the castle to make a statement and found Lord Roswaal already there. The two of us spent hours testifying, asking the same questions and giving the same answers over and over again. This continued until I asked permission to go find Master Rom and Miss Felt. Good idea, Subaru commented.

Yes, Reinhard murmured. I found a large group of guards waiting on the only road Miss Felt could take to reach the castle. They quickly yielded to me, but I have often wondered what they would have done if I had not been there. Subaru nodded. I brought Master Rom and Miss Felt to the castle, and they also testified. It seemed that Lady Emilia would be disqualified until the council of elders learned of your exploits in Arlam. Then, the vote changed, and Lady Emilia was allowed to continue.

That's what I expected. That's why I asked the boss to send the message, Subaru said smugly. I asked Miss Felt for hospitality again and spent the night with her and Master Rom. The next morning, I asked Felt if she would be willing to accompany me to the mansion, and she agreed. I spoke with Lord Roswaal before leaving, and then we came here. Did Roswaal say when he would return? Subaru asked.

Not to me, Reinhard shook his head. Miss Ram might know. He probably informed her of his plans in his letters. "All right, I'll ask her in the morning," Subaru said. "Red, you brought Felt because you thought she might be in danger in the city, right?" Reinhard nodded. Subaru covered his face with his hands for a long time and sighed. Finally, he looked at Reinhard. "Reinhard, tell me the truth. How much danger have I put Felt in by involving her in this mess?"

Wilhelm closed his eyes for a moment: *Heinkel, when all this is over, just like with Reinhard, I will restore our relationship, even if it's the last thing I do in life.

Reinhard could only do the same. Since he was barely five years old, he had obtained the divine protection of the sword saint, and that was when everything started to go wrong for him. Not only his father but also his grandfather disowned him for "killing" his grandmother.

Felt also felt anger towards the useless drunkard and the decrepit old man, as well as remembering the useless drunkard's "lapdog" to beat him up.

Otto: *So it's true, Natsuki-san feels guilty for endangering Felt from the knights or someone else*

Julius: *If Margrave Roswaal didn't return to the mansion, it's only because of what's coming next, but... so soon?

Crush: *If he's already headed to the shrine, it means that either Reinhard will hunt down the white whale faster, or people will simply forget about us.

Reinhard considered the question carefully. To be honest, he has attracted the attention of powerful men and is an easy target for anyone he has offended or upset. I would say he is quite dangerous. What about Rom? Subaru asked. I know he's huge, but he could also be in danger.

Reinhard shook his head. Master Rom is well known in the city and is not an easy target. He has a reputation for persuading assailants to go play elsewhere after inflicting serious injuries on them. Besides, his testimony was quick and hardly moving. I don't think he's in danger.

At least that's good, Subaru sighed and shook his head. All this with Felt is my fault, Red. I put her in danger, and if she returns to the capital, she could be in danger again. We could arrange for her to start over in Kararagi, Reinhard murmured.

Subaru shook his head. No way! She may be in exile right now, but it's only temporary. We're not going to take her away from everyone and everything she cares about. I asked her to do this. I put her in this danger. She did it because she felt she owed me. So now, and for the rest of her life, she’s, my responsibility. Do you think she's an easy target? We'll fix it. When we return to the capital, she'll come with us. At the selection ceremony, I'll put Felt in the spotlight so that everyone knows that Felt is an important figure in the Subaru/Emilia faction. Do you think you can persecute her with impunity? I'll make sure the whole city knows that if anyone hurts Felt, we'll rain fire down on them!

Reinhard smiled broadly. Fine words, my friend, and just what I hoped you would say. That's why I brought her here. I thought you would feel better knowing she was nearby to protect you. Very thoughtful, Red sighed Subaru and lay down. My debts to you continue to grow. I wonder if I will live long enough to pay them all back. Don't worry, my friend. I'll give you credit. We all know you're good with your debts, Reinhard said with a smile.

Ricardo: *Ha, knowing that old Rom was the former strategist of the semi-human war Valga Cromwell, I wouldn't worry about him, but rather the idiots who look for trouble with him.

Wilhelm stroked his beard: *Although I admit that when I fought him in the royal castle, I doubt he has weakened much, he would probably find the best way to keep trouble away from him. *

Felt turned her head toward her knight: *Rein, what the hell! What do you mean, start a new life in Kararagi? Besides, even my older brother knows that's wrong. *

Reinhard looked down in embarrassment: "Excuse me, Felt-sama, but I understand the concern that other me feels, and seeing what the knights of Lugunica are capable of, I admit I would say the same thing."

Anastasia: *Good strategy. Not only will you have a better way to get to the slums, but you may also have a potential information gatherer. *

Priscilla spoke irritably: *Hmph, just what we needed, the half-demon and the sewer rat working together. How horrible. *

Heh. I think you've been spending too much time with a pickpocket I know. Reinhard laughed. Felt was sitting outside Subaru's room wearing a borrowed yellow nightgown. She had gone to his room to ask Reinhard a question, but quickly forgot it as she listened to their conversation. When the conversation died down and they fell asleep, Felt got up without saying a word and returned to her room.

The next morning, Reinhard and Subaru got up and went downstairs for breakfast. On the way, they ran into Emilia and Felt. Subaru whispered to Emilia, looking tense. Good morning, Mili frowned.

Why does Emilia look so nervous? Subaru thought. Subaru Emilia twisted her fingers awkwardly on her dress. We really need to talk. Subaru hesitated for a moment. Okay, he said slowly. Red, why don't you and Felt go ahead without us? We'll be down in a minute. Reinhard nodded and continued toward the dining room, pausing only to grab Felt when it became clear that she intended to stay behind and watch.

Is something wrong, Mili? Subaru asked gently. No... well, yes. I mean, maybe, Emilia said helplessly. Subaru approached her and hugged her. Emilia tensed for a moment and then relaxed with a sigh, burying her face in his chest. Subaru gently guided her until she sat down at a nearby window. He sat down next to her, rubbing her back.

It's okay, Mili whispered. Take your time and get better. Remember, we're a team, and whatever the problem is, we'll solve it together. Emilia looked at him with teary eyes. Subaru, really? Of course, Subaru said, rubbing her back. Whatever the problem is, I know we can solve it. So, tell me what's bothering you. Okay, Emilia took a deep breath. Well, it's about... last night.

Last night? Subaru swallowed hard. "Um... Do you think what we did last night was a bad idea?" he asked, his voice breaking. "No! Well, maybe. I mean, I liked it, it's just... I was worried it wasn't the right time," Emilia said, looking away.

Felix: *Nyo, could it be that Felt heard everything they talked about nya*?

Al River, through gritted teeth: *Heh, I guess curiosity killed the cat, Princess*

Mimi: *Why would curiosity kill cats? Boss, that sounds horrible*

Rem frowned: *Why does Emilia-sama look so... nervous when she saw Subaru-kun in the hallway? *

Otto cursed silently: *By Od, why do I bet on what I lose and not on what I win? *

Meanwhile, Garfiel smiled and patted him on the back.

Emilia then saw the little blonde girl: *Felt-chan, spying is bad, you shouldn't do it, understand? *

Felt had a mocking smile on her face: *Yes, of course, big sister, but you shouldn't worry about me exactly, we all know what will happen now*

Beatrice sighed wearily: *I guess the half-elf is too stupid to know that, and Bubby is too overprotective too, in fact*

Anastasia: *Let's hope Natsuki-kun didn't say more than he should have, fufufu*

Al: *Now that you know the theory, let's move on to practice*

Ricardo: *You're wrong, friend, please don't stop, bwahaha*

Bad timing? For a kiss? I don't know how to interpret that! Subaru sighed. Emilia, he said gently. What's really bothering you? I want to help you, but you have to tell me what's wrong. Emilia took a deep breath and held it for a moment as she looked Subaru straight in the eyes. It's about the baby I'm carrying, she said. Subaru stared at her. I'm sorry? Subaru asked.

Emilia spoke quickly. I know we're not married yet and I have no idea how to be a mother, but I want to make sure the baby gets lots of love from those who should love it. I know the royal selection will complicate everything, but it's not the baby's fault, so I want to make sure that no matter what happens, we give it a happy and stable life, she finished, panting.

I don't know what to say. The worst part is, I don't know if I can stop myself from laughing in Mili's face. Okay, Mili, Subaru said, guiding her head to his shoulder and rubbing her back. I'm glad you told me. I always want to know if something is bothering you, Subaru reassured her.

Emilia relaxed against Subaru with a sigh, as if announcing her pregnancy had drained her of every ounce of courage. Emilia, Subaru said gently. You know babies don't come from cabbages or storks or anything, right? Emilia looked at him. Well, no. But when a boy and a girl kiss on the lips, that makes a baby, right? Oh my God. Really? I can't handle this.

Subaru was so torn between amusement, relief, and absolute fury at a little flying cat that he was afraid he would explode. Subaru reached out to touch the gem Emilia wore around her neck. Ooh, Puck! he cried. The cat appeared in midair with a yawn. Listen, Subaru, just because we connected yesterday doesn't mean I'm going to come when you call me. Puck, I'm starting to wonder if you haven't neglected a very important aspect of Emilia's education, Subaru said calmly.

Like what? Puck asked, his tail erect and his arms crossed defensively. Did you ever get around to telling her where babies come from? Subaru asked. Puck's tail dropped instantly. His face was horrified. So, kissing doesn't make babies? Emilia asked. Not even on the lips? Subaru didn't answer. Then where do babies come from? she asked Puck.

Emilia now held the record for the most times she had blushed while running her hands over her face to stifle a cry of embarrassment: "Subaru, you fool! That's no reason to laugh, and certainly not in front of me, young man!"

Crush was having fun: "I think we all saw this coming, didn't we? Even though Emilia is more aware of some things, it was logical that she wouldn't be on this subject."

Felix was also laughing: "I'm more surprised by her ability to ask that directly, nya."

Frederica, although no one was looking at her, knew that sooner or later Roswaal would see her and give her a smile that said, "You know what you have to do." She prayed that they wouldn't leave that job to her.

Felt, Al, Ricardo, and Mimi were holding their stomachs from laughing so hard, some even had tears in their eyes from laughing so much.

Puck looked terrified. You know, Subaru? I think I hear Betty calling me. But I have complete faith in your ability to handle this situation. Good luck! Puck disappeared. Subaru stared at the empty space in amazement. Come back here, you stupid flying cat! You can't leave me to deal with this alone! he shouted into the void.

Do you think Puck is mad at me? Emilia asked. No, Subaru said, rubbing his forehead. No, he's just a coward, and next time you talk to him, tell him that as soon as I touch him, I'm going to swat his little paws. Subaru, are you... mad at me? Emilia asked, looking at the floor.

Subaru took a deep breath and composed himself. Of course not, Mili, Subaru said, hugging her. I'm just a little upset with Puck. I should have explained these things to you years ago. In short, you're not pregnant. Are you sure? I'm absolutely sure, Subaru assured her. So, Subaru, where do babies come from?

It took Subaru and Emilia about half an hour to go over the basics. During this time, Subaru frequently used Reason and Judgment to pause while he thought about what to say.

I know I'm trying to limit my uses of Reason and Judgment except in emergencies, but if having to explain the facts of life to your girlfriend isn't an emergency, then I don't know what is. A virgin, an expert in sex from watching hentai, explains the mechanics of sex to an elf who thought you could get pregnant by kissing someone, but only on the lips. You can't make this stuff up!

In the end, Emilia blushed furiously, but she also seemed to be taking in what she had been told. So, people do that when they want to have children? Well, people do that for many reasons, Subaru replied slowly. Like what? Well, it feels really good. And it's a good way to experience... intimacy with another person, Subaru explained. Have you had sex? Subaru didn't answer.

Priscilla took the opportunity to do what she does best: *Hmpf, pathetic in every way, and she wants to rule that half-demon? What a bad joke*

Emilia: *N-no, it's not that, I've studied and learned about how babies are made, I just don't...*

There was a deathly silence. Had they heard correctly? Admitting that and feeling ashamed of something else, what was wrong with that girl?

Rem tried to calm the situation: *Emilia-sama, even if that's true, you shouldn't... say it so openly, you know*?

Ram just sighed: *Barusu's idiocy is definitely contagious, otherwise I don't understand what's going on*

Petra was red as could be: *E-Emilia-sama, T-that's so inappropriate for a l-lady*

Ricardo was just recovering from his fit of laughter as he wiped away a tear: "The mini-boss has nerves of steel if he's teaching her that himself."

Anastasia: "Jen... tai? I wonder what that is, but if Natsuki-kun knows about it while watching it, do they have public entertainment like that in the world he comes from? Oh my god!"

Al: *Haa, I remember those days, and the joke of any rookie recommending "Boku no Pico," a classic. Surely here, the "fuyoshi" would appear in droves if they knew about "yaoi."*

*How can he answer that so easily, nya? It's absurd. *

Ha. Normally, that confession would be embarrassing. Right now, it's probably the least embarrassing thing in the conversation, Subaru thought. What did you mean by experiencing intimacy? Well, Subaru said, struggling to express the concept. It's like... kissing. It's wanting to be close to someone, as close as possible. It's wanting to share... the most intimate experience two people can share.

Do you want to be intimate with me? Emilia asked naturally. Shit! Is there a right answer to this question? Someone throws me a lifeline, I'm drowning here! Subaru thought. Subaru coughed. Yes. I do. But that's something... we'll do... when we both feel ready. I'm in no rush. I guess, anyway, in this world it's usually done after marriage.

Is it different where you come from? she asked. Yes, sex is much more casual at home. Then why haven't you had sex? Because in my previous life I was a pathetic loser who rarely left his bedroom and no sane woman would touch me with a ten-foot pole? Subaru shrugged. I never found the right woman, he said. But now you think I'm the right woman? Emilia asked with a slight blush. Yes, Subaru said, blushing too.

Well, I mean, if you wanted to do... that, I think we could... she said awkwardly. You know, Mili interrupted Subaru. I think the wonderful thing about romance is that things happen naturally. They happen when both people feel comfortable enough with each other. Wait, why am I trying to convince her otherwise? Am I really that cowardly? If she's willing, why don't we do it? Subaru wondered.

Well, part of it is because, yes, you can be that cowardly. If you're so embarrassed to talk about sex, imagine trying it. The first time is always awkward, but this would be brutal. The other problem is that Emilia isn't ready for this, no matter what she says, and you know it. She might do it for you because she loves you, but don't you think Emilia deserves better? To be your experiment? If you really love her, shouldn't you be willing to wait until she can participate in the experience on equal terms, rather than just being a passenger?

Wait a second. Did I really just think that? Emilia might do it for me... because she loves me. Because she loves me, could she... could she really start to love me? Emilia gave him a half-smile. I guess if I tried to do that right now, I'd be really embarrassed, she admitted, pulling Subaru out of his reverie.

Wilhelm nodded: *That's a good way to put it, Subaru-dono, being united not only physically but also in everything.

Felix: *Although if it's something special nya, from a certain perspective it's a bit vague nya.

Several people slapped their foreheads at the semi-elf's lack of tact in asking so directly if they wanted to be intimate with the black-haired man, while some began to laugh, others blushed at her boldness.

Al: *Bro, you'll have a lot of work to do when we get back. Why don't you all just get married and be done with it? *

Ricardo: *Bwahahahah, the mini-boss is so lucky to have someone as direct as her, bwahaha. *

Emilia was screaming. Although she felt embarrassed, she was happy to hear from Subaru that she was the right one for him.

Ram: *How awful, Barusu can't even do that. He's a coward and a total disgrace. *

Rem: Rem thinks Subaru-kun is very respectful, nee-sama, and I think it's wonderful that Rem's hero thinks that way. *

Meanwhile, Crush coughed into her fist, blushing: *Although at first, I didn't pay attention to those things, I must admit that Subaru is right about that. It should be mutual and not just one-sided. *

Priscilla: *Hmph, the commoner has my approval with that way of thinking, since everything should be beneficial to my divine being. *

Yes, I do too, Subaru replied. But I think that one day, soon, you'll remember this moment and find it funny that you ever worried about embarrassing yourself in front of me. Emilia smiled at him. Of course, there is a silver lining to this whole situation, Subaru added. What's that? Now that you know kissing won't get you pregnant, I hope to get lots more! Subaru replied.

Emilia laughed. I guess kissing isn't as important as I thought. Mili said Subaru, feigning offense, sitting her on his lap and hugging her. Kissing is very important! Emilia smiled at him and leaned in to give him a kiss.

Another half hour passed before Subaru and Emilia came downstairs, which delayed breakfast considerably. It would have taken even longer if it weren't for Felt, who was born hungry, coming to find them to find out what had happened. Felt's teasing had been relentless when they finally made it to the table. You know, Felt, one day you'll be where I was, Subaru said as he and Emilia took their seats. And on that day, I promise to show you all the love and consideration you just showed me.

"Is it necessary for the whole family to discuss your activities and those of Lady Emilia?" Ram asked in a bored tone. "No, but I have a feeling they will," Subaru sighed. Reinhard and Felt dove into breakfast, and a few minutes later Beatrice and Puck joined them at the dining table. Subaru looked at Rem and Ram, who were standing nearby.

You know, ladies, I don't think any of us here are particularly formal. You can sit down and eat with us, Subaru said. That would be a violation of protocol, Ram said. I'm giving you permission, Subaru began. We don't have permission, Ram snapped. My goodness, ma'am, relax! Subaru is trying to be nice to you, Felt protested with her mouth full of eggs.

Felt interrupted Subaru. I know from your experiences with Elsa that you have the worst sense of danger around strangers, so please try to learn from my mistakes—never make Ram angry. Felt looked at Subaru in confusion. I thought Red said it was the blue-haired maid who tried to kill you? Rem was startled by this.

Ricardo and Al looked at each other, having a mental conversation as they nodded.

Ricardo: *Oh, kisses, kisses are the keys to the soul*

Al: *Without kisses, we are nothing, just like a pure and beautiful flower, without them they will wither*

Anastasia frowned but laughed slightly: *Ricardo, since you express your devotion to kisses, how about expressing that same desire to your work? (While she had a not-so-friendly smile)

On the other hand, the one-armed knight was already pinned to a wall by a kick from his princess of the sun: *You hurt my ears with your nonsense, dog*

Felt was laughing: *Oh, don't doubt it, big brother, we already have enough to make fun of you for quite some time*

Ram crossed his arms: "Pfft, please, Barusu is exaggerating. Ram is perfectly the most merciful being there is."

Rem shuddered as she remembered how, as always, in any line and world, she attacks her magnificent hero without justification.

It was. Please, let this give you context when I say that it's Ram you really don't want to anger, Subaru emphasized. Felt thought about it and then looked nervously at Ram. Ram sniffed. Reinhard snapped his fingers. Oh, Subaru, I forgot to give you this last night, he said, handing Subaru a large bag filled with gold coins. Subaru stared at the huge bag in amazement. Red, I can't take this from you!

Reinhard frowned. Then his eyes widened. Oh! It's not mine! This is the reward offered by the kingdom for the capture of enemy officers alive. Really? Subaru asked. How much is it worth? A captain from Gusteko is worth six hundred gold pieces, Reinhard said. Felt let out a low whistle.

Well, at least our camp isn't broke anymore. We can fund some of our ideas. That's great, Subaru said to Emilia. Well, after breakfast, Subaru said. I'd like to have a group meeting to go over some of the ideas Emilia and I have come up with for the royal selection. Beatrice, if it's okay with you, I'd like you to come too.

Beatrice snorted and looked away. Well, she didn't respond with a resounding no, so that's promising, Subaru thought. I'd also like you and Rem to attend if you're not too busy, Subaru said to Ram. Why would we be involved? Ram asked in a bored tone.

Because Lord Roswaal isn't here, and he deserves to have his interests represented. And you are the representatives of his interests, Subaru replied. Ram stiffened and nodded. I should take care of a couple of things first, she said, leaving the room. Take your time, Subaru said, watching Felt empty another plate. I think we'll be here for a while.

Felt hissed, "Damn! Well, at least you have coins to start with. Imagine if it had been more."

Reinhard: Felt-sama, you shouldn't eat so much, you might get fat and lose your current physique* (While a blushing Felt threw a punch at Reinhard, who stopped her without hesitation)

Roswaal: *Wow~ how considerate of you, Subaru-kun, it's wonderful that you remember me when making your plans for the future*

Beatrice: *I guess Betty will continue to think that he is "that person" after all*

Tivey: *Currently, the following is needed: improving crops in Arlam, making that "sewing machine" for the seamstresses, and the plan to clear out the slums*

"Okay," said Subaru as everyone gathered in the room and Rem served tea. "Emilia and I are planning a campaign with several points. We believe the best strategy is a combination of three parts economic improvements and one part defense. We believe we have solid ideas for two of the economic pillars of our platform. We have one rather uncertain economic pillar, and we currently have no idea what we will do about defense," said Subaru.

What do you mean by defense? asked Reinhard.

The primary responsibility of any ruler is to ensure the peace and security of their people, explained Subaru. If Emilia and I aspire to be elected, we must prove to the entire kingdom that we can achieve this. In a way, we were lucky with the attack on Arlam because we proved that our faction can protect our people. That said, I'm not sure if that small skirmish was enough to convince everyone. We may need more. We haven't yet determined what we would do to prove our capabilities.

Our first economic platform is what we call The Green Revolution, Subaru explained. We plan to introduce advanced agricultural techniques from my homeland to boost food productivity and improve the quality of available food. Reinhard smiled. Wonderful! Reinhard knew nothing about agriculture, but his lord bringing tools and techniques from another world could only be beneficial to the kingdom.

Today, I plan to talk to the head of Arlam to see if he is interested in these new techniques and to gauge the difficulty of adopting them. Emilia, I would like you to come along if you don't mind. I think it would be good for us to be together while we explain this. Okay, but you'll still have to do most of the explaining, Emilia replied with a smile. Subaru gave her a smile.

Crush: *I see, in addition to what was already planned, he has something else to add, and most importantly, the protection of the people.

Julius: *Well thought out, Subaru. Making the safety of the citizens a priority is a good option, and I think that attack on Arlam was enough, at least. *

Anastasia: *Interesting. First, he will discuss and implement new farming techniques to improve production. *

Otto pinched the bridge of his nose: *Natsuki-san, why couldn't you do the same with us? You know how innovative all that would be. *

Garfiel: *Hey! But the captain already brought something from his world, that sauce called mayonnaise. *

Frederica: *It's good that Emilia-sama can also answer a few questions, so they'll see that she's doing something too. *

Reinhard and Felt, it would also be good if you came along and tried to follow us. I know you are not farmers, but it would be helpful for all of us to understand the basic concept before returning to the capital. Reinhard and Felt nodded.

Subaru continued We also hope to speak with Lord Roswaal about obtaining permission to apply these techniques in Arlam and other villages... Ram interrupted his letter, taking a sip of tea. Lord Roswaal instructed the villagers of his kingdom to listen to your and Lady Emilia's instructions in his absence.

Subaru paused for a moment. That was very... timely. Why would he send that message? What made him think we would do something with the villagers? Great, Subaru said awkwardly. That's point number one. Does anyone have any ideas? I do, said Felt, raising her hand. If that thing of yours is going to disrupt the farms, will he send more people to the slums? Because, honestly, I don't think there's room for many more.

He shouldn't, Emilia assured her. In fact, we hope this idea will help us empty the slums. If these techniques work here as they do in Subaru's world, these improvements will boost food production and significantly increase the demand for agricultural labor. We hope to train the slum dwellers as farmhands and get them out of the city and back to the countryside, where they can find good homes and good jobs. Felt looked slightly impressed.

And as Felt already mentioned, platform two is for emptying the slums, Subaru continued. Felt burst into applause. Subaru waited in bewilderment for a minute until Felt calmed down and stopped clapping.

Reinhard: *I see, it would be good to be present so we can know how much these changes would mean to the farmers, besides the fact that we are in their camp.

Felt: *It seems like he'll talk a lot, but well, we have to help our big brother and big sister win! *

Roswaal chuckled: *Fufufu, I see, how interesting. Although it seems like I'm being more cautious, it's all for the sake of reviving Sensei. *

Otto: *I see, they'll need workers, and that's where what Natsuki-san wants to do in the slums comes in.*

Julius: *And since it's a job that doesn't require any specific knowledge, it would be best even for people who can't read or write. *

Thank you for your applause, he said dryly. Well, then we want to tear down the slums for moral and economic reasons. It shouldn't be controversial to say that in this country everyone should go to bed with a full stomach, clothes on, and a roof over their head. It shouldn't be controversial to say that, but apparently it is, Subaru corrected himself. As Emilia said, the plan to empty the slums depends heavily on the takeoff of the Green Revolution and the increase in demand for labor. We're also going to have to try to work our way into the slums so that people will trust us when we offer them jobs and not think we're trying to trick them and sell them to slave traders.

Even so, they would sign up, believe me, Felt murmured. Subaru sighed. Rather than analyzing that comment, something we will definitely need for this project is information. Felt, can you read and write? Of course. Grandpa taught me, she said. Perfect. Felt, I want to offer you a job. What am I stealing? Felt said, half-jokingly.

Al: *It may sound ugly, but it's the truth. If they see an opportunity to improve their situation, they'll take it, even if it's something shady.

Petra: *Frederica nee-sama, why would it be controversial to do something that could help many people?

Frederica: Well, Petra-chan, as you know, there are bad people who take advantage of those situations.

Reinhard looked wearily at the little blonde girl: "Felt-sama, you shouldn't say that so lightly."

Felt simply clicked her tongue as she looked away.

Anastasia: "He probably wants to know the stories of the people there, how they got there, what they did before, and what skills they have. I must say, very well thought out, Natsuki-kun.”

Nothing! Subaru said cheerfully. In fact, your days as a thief are over! I really don't want to have to explain to anyone why a member of my faction works as a pickpocket at night. So, from now on, no more stealing! You're officially retired!

"Okay, okay, fine!" Felt shouted. "Felt, how much did you earn when you worked normally?" Subaru asked. "You mean a legal job? Normally about three coppers a day." Subaru stared at her. "Damn it, Felt, how do you live on that?" "I couldn't. That's why she stole," he said as if talking to a child.

Well, how about I offer you two silver coins a day? Does that sound fair? Judging by the way Felt's eyes lit up, it sounded good. Well, let's say you work for me five days a week and take the weekend off. We'll give you one gold coin at the end of each week, Subaru said. Sounds great, what does the job involve? Felt asked. I want you to collect stories, Subaru said. Stories?

Before we empty the slums, we need to find out why people end up there. We need to know what drove them to the slums so we can stop the cycle, Subaru explained.

We need you to talk to the people there who wouldn't be willing to talk to us, Emilia continued with Subaru's point. Find out why they ended up there, what they were doing before they arrived, and what skills they have so we can try to find them employment elsewhere. Sounds easy enough, Felt said with a shrug.

Currently, our plans to empty the slums depend largely on increased demand for labor, Subaru continued. But before we can make more specific plans, we need actual figures and an idea of who the slum dwellers are, how they got there, and what skills they have.

Anastasia: *It's just as I said, he'll use it to get people's stories, who knows, maybe there's someone with some pretty useful skills.

Al: *Heh, one thing by day and another by night, hey, that could be misinterpreted now that I think about it.

Felt whistled: *Two silver coins a day? That's the best you can get!

Otto: *You really only earned three copper coins? *

Wilhelm: *With a fixed salary like that, I doubt anyone would be uninterested in working. *

Tivey: *It would be best. They already know her, so there shouldn't be any problems. *

Subaru looked around. Any questions? Excuse me for saying so, said Reinhard. I share your disgust at their living conditions and believe the kingdom has a moral duty to improve them, but will that win you and Lady Emilia support in the elections? Not on its own, replied Subaru. That's why we're linking it to economic issues.

Finding jobs for people in the slums increases our workforce, Emilia added. It will increase tax revenue, free up city land for development, and reduce the large amount of money the kingdom spends each year on managing Low town’s problems.

Wow! You're starting to sound like real politicians, said Felt. By the way, that wasn't a compliment. People may agree with us because it's the right thing to do or because it's the cheapest option, said Subaru with a shrug. The important thing is that they agree.

Our third and final economic platform, Subaru continued, involves a machine from my homeland called a sewing machine. It's basically a tool that allows you to sew a lot of clothes incredibly quickly without sacrificing yourself at work. Where could you find one of those? Reinhard asked.

I can't, Subaru said with a shrug. I'll have to make one myself. I think I remember enough about how they work, but it's been years since I've seen one, and even longer since I've worked with this type of tool. I don't know if I'll even be able to get close to it. It's very possible that I'll fail, Subaru said with a shrug.

When Subaru succeeds, Emilia emphasized, we plan to find craftsmen in Lugunica or Kararagi who can mass-produce these machines. Then, we will use them so that all our seamstresses far surpass the competition in all other countries. Lugunica will become the textile capital of the world.

Julius nodded: *I understand. When the time comes that there is no one left in the slums, I could use some sectors and do something.

Anastasia: "Although cheap sometimes turns out to be expensive, but considering who's saying it, there won't be any mistakes, or so I think."

Crush: "So, you're also going for that 'sewing machine,' thus giving better production and better quality to the new garments that are used."

Felix: *I think we should make that sewing machine, Crush-sama nya, so her beauty will be even more apparent. *

Petra: *Although Subaru-sama sews and has already given us stuffed animals and clothes; this would be one more step toward my dream. *

Emilia: *But... if Subaru can't remember how to do it, then how would he manage it? *

It also increases the demand for labor and offers jobs with easy-to-learn skills, Subaru concluded. Any questions? The room was silent. Well, that's all for now, Subaru said. We have an appointment with the Arlam farmers this afternoon. Until then, we can enjoy ourselves.

Felt walked away to explore. Reinhard followed her. He wasn't entirely sure if he was motivated by a desire to keep her out of trouble. Emilia took Puck and walked away, smiling at Subaru. Emilia had thought it would be nice to spend some quality time alone with Puck, and Subaru had approved the plan.

Rem and Ram walked away to begin their tasks, leaving only Subaru and Beatrice alone. Beako asked Subaru, kneeling down to look Beatrice in the eyes. Can you do me a big favor?

Beatrice snorted. Why would Betty do you a favor, I wonder? Because if you do, I'll keep arranging for you to have more quality time with Puck, Subaru suggested. Beatrice choked and looked at Subaru suspiciously. And what would that favor be, I wonder? Could you teach me how to read? Subaru said pitifully. Beatrice took Subaru to her library and pulled a large fairy tale book from the shelf. She sat down next to Subaru on the futon and proceeded to give him instructions.

Those are the letters of the alphabet. I suppose it will take you a long time to learn them, but then you should be able to read, Beatrice said pompously. Well, a short alphabet is much better than having to learn all the characters of a language like kanji. Maybe this isn't so bad, Subaru reflected. Since the alphabet only had about thirty letters, Subaru learned them with surprising speed. In less than two hours, he was already writing his first story in fits and starts.

Ricardo: *That being the case, I'm sure more than one person would be interested in working under the mini-boss, and with those working conditions even more so.

Felt: *I just hope none of those nobles try to screw with big brother, or they'll have us to deal with. *

Garfiel clenched his fists: Ha! They'd have to be idiots to take on the captain and the sword saint!

Al: *That's... a fearsome combination, no offense, but the ultimate weapon and the ultimate strategy*

Wilhelm: *That would certainly make Lugunica someone quite formidable*

Beatrice crossed her arms and raised her chin: *In fact, Betty's Subaru made the best choice in asking her, I suppose, since Betty is the best teacher there is*

Well, either Beako is an incredible teacher, or this is another example of the unspecified benevolence of Reason and Judgment, which may or may not come at a very high price. Yes, I'm not going to think about that right now, Subaru thought firmly. Subaru had been reading for a few minutes. Beatrice sat waiting for an opportunity to correct him, but it didn't come. Finally, Subaru finished reading Beatrice the story about an evil witch who punished sinners by tearing their bodies apart.

Damn, were fairy tales at home that macabre? Subaru wondered. Hm. I suppose you did quite well, Beatrice said disdainfully. You're a good teacher, Subaru complimented her. I feel like with your help, I'll learn this quickly.

Beatrice blushed a little and looked away. So, you expect Betty to give you more lessons? Then you'd better give Betty more time with Bubby! I'll do that, Subaru nodded naturally. In fact, I thought I owed you something else. You once told me you were looking for someone, maybe I could help you find them?

Beatrice stared at Subaru for a long moment, then looked away and crossed her arms. And you think you could find someone that the Great Spirit Betty couldn't, I suppose! Beatrice snorted. Interesting. She didn't say no, but clearly this is a sensitive subject for her. I wonder why? Subaru pondered.

Well, Beako, the truth is, I'm really good at finding things, Subaru said. I mean, I found your library pretty quickly. Betty looked at him with a frown. Nice move, Subaru! Keep it up and you'll be mincemeat, Subaru thought.

And I'm sure Puck told you how I managed to find Emilia's badge in a strange town after only seeing the thief for a second! Subaru hurried. I bet I could help you find the person you're looking for. Beatrice hesitated and looked at Subaru with a confused expression. How long have you been looking for them? she asked.

Beatrice puffed out her chest proudly: *Hmpf, it's obvious that Betty is an excellent teacher, I suppose*

Vielma, without anyone hearing her: Certainly, that's how it was when Vikuta onii-sama taught me about Yin affinity*

Reinhard paid attention to the story Subaru had just read: *That story is undoubtedly about Typhon, isn't it*?

Rem: A... witch who punishes sinners by destroying their bodies, it must be that one.

Anastasia: *I think we can add that to the possible theories about what might be happening to her because of that Authority of Pride. She learned faster and better than ours.

Roswaal: *Well, well, so he'll help her find 'that person': fufufu, how amusing.

Emilia: *I hope Subaru makes a contract with Betty. She'll surely understand and ask him for that.

Tivey: But wasn't it that at first, she wanted 'that person' to kill her?

Beatrice snorted again and looked away melodramatically. Betty isn't looking for that person. That person is looking for Betty! And Betty has to stay here guarding the library until that person arrives, I suppose!

Wow. That doesn't sound very good. Who exactly is she waiting for? Does she even know? And how would she recognize them if they came? Subaru thought. This is a sensitive subject for Beako. If I'm not careful, they'll send me flying out the door again. I don't want to have to pay Roswaal for more damaged walls. Well, who told you about them? Subaru asked.

For a moment, it seemed that Beatrice wasn't going to answer, then she muttered Betty's mother ordered her to guard the Great Library until that person came to take possession of it. Well, could we go ask your mother for more information? Subaru suggested. Beatrice was silent for a long time. Subaru didn't rush her, waiting for her to respond in her own time. Betty lost her mother four hundred years ago, in fact, she finally whispered.

Wait. Four hundred years?! She's been waiting in this library for four hundred years for someone to come? No way! At least four hundred years? Subaru thought in amazement and horror.

Beatrice had been waiting here alone all this time. Day after day, just... waiting. Waiting for someone to come and rescue her. Waiting for a miracle, I suppose. Funny, you could almost have said the same thing about me back home. I just sat in my room waiting. I wasn't even sure what I was waiting for, but I think deep down... I always knew it wasn't going to happen. When I gave up, the world gave up on me. It was never going to send anyone to get me out of that room.

Subaru looked around Beatrice's library with a new sense of dismay. Beatrice is like me. A person forgotten by the world. A world that moved on without us and never cared whether we caught up or not.

Al: *Yeah, well, even if you have instructions, if you reject Titirimundi, then what's the point of waiting? *

Beatrice frowned: *Actually, Betty disagrees with you, human, because after all, Betty got that person, now Betty has her Subaru, I guess. *

Ram: *Good idea, we should deduct from his pay for all the damage caused, at least three years without pay. *

Rem: Nee-sama, that's too much!

Anastasia: *Even for me, that's too extreme. *

Priscilla snorted amusedly: *What things this commoner says, the world only has to wait for my divine being, no one else. *

Subaru sighed and shook his head. Beatrice and her tsundere attitude had always annoyed him, but now he felt a strange affinity with her. At least his parents had tried to convince him to leave his room. Beatrice's mother had ordered her to stay in the library, and Beatrice had obeyed. In a way, he and Beatrice were two sides of the same coin.

Well, except that I was lucky. The world didn't forget me entirely. I still had my parents. They never abandoned me, even though they should have. And the world didn't abandon me either. It gave me just what I needed—it sent me here. It knew I wanted to be a hero, and it gave me the chance to be one. I have people who respect me, who need me now. I even have people who could learn to love me if given enough time.

And what about Beako? What makes her so unremarkable? She's been waiting here for four hundred years! Why doesn't the world try to bring her out of her shell and give her another chance? What? Is the world having a coffee break?

Okay, to hell with it. Beatrice would never admit it, even if she had to sit here for ten thousand years, but she needs help. She needs a hero. I'm the only person here, so I guess I'd better volunteer. But how do I help her? Who is this person she's waiting for? And how would I recognize them? Wow, I'm about to bite off more than I can chew.

Well, then we know one important thing about this person: they have a terrible sense of direction, Subaru said cheerfully, kneeling in front of Beatrice to look her in the eyes. Getting lost for four hundred years? Who does that? Beatrice blinked and looked at Subaru. Well, Beako, I think you've waited long enough for this person. It's time to find them. You and I are going to go look for them. And then I might yell at them for leaving Beako alone all this time. That's mean! said Subaru.

What are you talking about, I wonder? asked Beatrice, confused. I'm saying we're going to find this person. They waited four hundred years. And that's more than enough. It's time for us to be proactive and find them ourselves. I'm going to help you find her, said Subaru.

Roswaal: *Even though Sensei said that to her~, I wanted to see what action Beatrice would take, if she could choose "that person" herself*

Felt glared at the clown: *Don't you talk, you fucking clown! You haven't even asked to do anything, and now you're fucking with big brother for your shitty goal*

Reinhard: *Felt-sama, first of all, you shouldn't use such vulgar language, and second, even if the Margrave managed to revive her, there's no chance she would reciprocate his feelings. *

Ram clicked her tongue: *Barusu should go to the end of the world with all the witches, then we'd all be happy. *

Al: *It would be like Zoro then, hehe. I wonder if I could suddenly appear in another world by chance? *

Emilia: *So Subaru will try to find "that person" for Betty? At least it will get her out of the library more. *

Beatrice: Actually, I wish Betty had chosen Subaru from the beginning, I guess. *

Beatrice stared intently at Subaru. Betty is... Many people have offered to be that person for Betty, I suppose no one has ever offered to help Betty find that person, she whispered. Well, that's what I'm saying, Subaru said firmly. We're going to find that person, and I'm going to teach them a lesson for leaving Beako alone for so long!

Subaru, Beatrice whispered. Subaru thought it was the first time Beatrice had ever said his name. Why are you trying to help Betty? Subaru was tempted to laugh and make a joke. Oh, well, you're teaching me to read, I just don't want to be indebted to a drill-haired tsundere Loli! No. Bad idea. The look on Beatrice's face says she feels really vulnerable right now. She deserves to be treated honestly.

Because you need me, Subaru replied with a shrug. Because you're suffering. Because you feel lonely. Because... Betty is suffering and she doesn't deserve it. I want Betty to be happy, and I'll do whatever it takes to make her happy. And if that means finding someone who's been lost for four hundred years, then that's just what I have to do. Beatrice was silent, her lip trembling.

Subaru gently reached out his hand to Beatrice. She hesitated for a moment, then placed her small hand in his palm. I'll find that person with you, or I'll die trying, Subaru promised, meaning every word. Subaru's words seemed right at the time. However, upon reflection a little later, they seemed irrational and deeply absurd.

Subaru said bravely. You promised to help Beako find her person. Good for you. Do you have a strategy to accomplish that? Where do you start? Are you going to wander the world with Beatrice in tow asking random people, "Are you that person?" There will probably be folk songs about the wandering lunatic and his drill-haired Loli before you even find them, Subaru thought.

Subaru, Emilia, Felt, and Reinhard were traveling in a carriage to Arlam that afternoon. Surprisingly, Beatrice and Puck had arrived without anyone asking them to. Subaru had expected Puck to come, but Beatrice's presence seemed encouraging. She sat next to Subaru, not speaking to him, but glancing at him from time to time.

Beatrice clenched her small fists in her lap: *Because no one was interested in anything about Betty, I guess, they were only interested in Betty's knowledge, but Betty's Subaru is interested in me, that's... the only thing I want and need.

Emilia shook her head: *Subaru, this is serious, young man, you shouldn't joke like that with poor Betty, just look at her, she looks like she wants to cry, silly.

Rem: "That's right, Subaru-kun. Even though he can be clumsy sometimes, he'll always do everything for us."

Felix: "Subaru-kyun always acts first before thinking, nya. Even he admits it, he has no plan or anything, nya."

Ricardo was laughing at the last part: "Bwahahahah, 'the wanderer with his Loli,' bwahaha, the mini-boss is still the same."

Al: *What did you expect? He's the great Lolimancer. Little girls, witches, and Loli grandmothers are under his command. *

To make matters worse, Beatrice seems to know nothing about this person. All she knows about them can be summed up in a single sentence: "The person Betty is waiting for, the person who will inherit my mother's library." How could she even recognize that person if she met them? Does she really expect someone to walk into the library one day and say, "I'm that person"? "Sorry I'm late"?

Unfortunately, yes, I feel like that's what she expects. But she said there were people who came to the library saying that and she turned them away. No, wait. She said there were people who went to the library telling her they could become that person. That's not the same thing at all. So, what's the solution? Walk into the library and say, "Good news, Beako. I used reason and judgment and discovered that I am that person. How curious, right? Well... that might work.

No, you idiot. Beatrice has been waiting four hundred years for this person. She deserves better than a charade! Even a charade motivated by the best of intentions. So how can I find this person? I doubt the magic of Reason and Judgment will be of much help in this case. We know that this person is supposed to inherit the library, and well, that's about it. So, based on that information, I can deduce that this person can read? Maybe?

Wow. I used to think that telling Emilia we would rule the country would be a difficult promise to keep. Now I have a lot more perspective.

Turnips and clover can be sown between fields during the early fall harvest. They grow relatively quickly and are quite resistant to cold, so if the weather cooperates, you should have fields full of grass for most of the winter. Cows, sheep, and pigs can graze in these fields to stay healthy during the cold months, and the manure they leave behind is full of nutrients after consuming the vitamin-rich turnips and clover. By spring, you should have refreshed fields, ready to produce corn or wheat without the need for fallow, Subaru concluded.

Reinhard: *It might sound almost the same, but it's not. They want to be someone they're not, whereas the other would be confirming it.

Anastasia: *That's why you have to know how to use the right words in business, not only to learn about the other person, but to appear as if you have everything under control.

Roswaal: Good deduction, Subaru-kun, but would that change anything about you? In the end, what will you choose? *

Emilia: *Subaru, you're not a fraud. When we get back, we'll make sure you learn that, silly. *

Felix: *Actually, yes, nya, and I'll probably ask her to kill me too, nya. *

Mimi: *Look, they changed the scene. I don't understand what the mini-boss is saying. *

Meanwhile, Tivey was writing down what was said on the screen.

Subaru had just given a speech on agricultural techniques and crop variations that would have made a professional farmer proud. The sheer amount of information Subaru remembered from a single three-month class he had taken years ago, which he had not been interested in, and a class in which he had practically fallen asleep, had officially crossed the line into the realm of the completely absurd and ridiculous.

Subaru decided not to think too much about this or how much Reason and Judgment were affecting his mind. Subaru was surrounded by the entire village. Originally, he had hoped to speak only with some of the more influential farmers, but word of his presentation had spread, and the entire village had asked to sit and listen to the words of their new hero. Subaru could think of no reason to refuse.

Felt, Reinhard, and the spirits were sitting on a nearby fence. They had remained silent throughout the presentation. The spirits had no real interest in crops and were only half-listening. Reinhard was attentive, but Subaru knew he had quickly lost the knight during his speech. Felt, despite never having been on a farm, seemed to be processing the information and understanding it.

Wow. I always thought Felt was smart. Recruiting her was probably a good idea, Subaru thought.

The only other person who spoke during the presentation was Emilia, at Subaru's request. He had asked her to please step in whenever she was asked a question, she thought she knew the answer to. This was mainly for image purposes and to ensure that people associated Emilia with this idea as much as Subaru. Emilia had answered several questions during the discussion and proved to be well prepared. Emilia remained by his side throughout the presentation so that the villagers would understand that this was a proposal shared by two people.

The villagers seemed to be pondering Subaru's suggestions. It's an interesting idea, admitted one farmer. It seems feasible. I don't see any flaws, but it's risky, pointed out another. We've been doing things a certain way for generations. Changing that is risky.

Beatrice: *I suppose Betty would be interested in looking further into her Authority. In fact, Betty's Subaru could change in one way or another. *

Wilhelm: *For the moment, he has only shown what he has had from the beginning, but there is also something else to consider. *

Many tilted their heads in confusion at the butler's words, until they remembered a crucial factor.

Ram: *This Barusu is from another world, so he will cause problems that are different from ours. *

Felt: *Wait a minute, then big brother could be doing things that haven't happened before! *

Reinhard thoughtfully put a hand to his chin: *It's likely, Felt-sama, considering what the guardian has told us, he could show us something totally different from what we know. *

Frederica: *It was a good idea for Emilia-sama to participate in the speech as well, so they will know that she is also helping to improve the environment. *

Otto: *It's risky, but it could work, even though they have surely maintained farming techniques for generations. *

Yes, but how well do those methods work? We're barely getting through the winter, said a third. That's the problem, replied the second farmer. If this works even slightly worse than our current plans, our winters could go from being harsh to desperate.

Mr. Subaru interrupted the village chief. It seems that this new strategy you're proposing would require animals to work.

Exactly, Emilia interjected. Turnips are a wonderful source of food for pigs and cows, and they're especially good for... nursing mothers, Emilia said, blushing. Subaru bit his lip to keep from laughing as he recalled the conversation about motherhood that Subaru and Emilia had endured that morning.

In addition to increasing the productivity of their fields, Emilia said, taking Subaru's hand and squeezing it so hard it hurt. Subaru looked at her and, behind her benevolent teacher's expression, saw a flash of annoyance in her eyes. This only made Subaru want to laugh even more. The increased availability and health of domestic livestock in their community will increase their access to milk and meat. This will improve their diet and provide them with more resources to sell at the market.

The villagers murmured among themselves, with a cautious tone of approval. The prospect of more food and more variety appealed to them for obvious reasons. And does this technique work well in your homeland? asked the chief.

Emilia squeezed the black-haired man's hand hard enough to hurt him, just like the screen: *Subaru, I'll have to punish you for laughing at me, one week without a lap pillow, young man.

Ram rolled her eyes: *Just what we needed, Emilia-sama catching Barusu's lust, only the dragon can save us now.

Al: *Well, if by chance it fails, I doubt that bro would buy food for everyone, just like those who record themselves while distributing food to people on the street. *

Anastasia: *That sounds... too good to be true. Is there something behind the scenes while they do that? *

Petra: It sounds good, right, Frederica nee-sama? If everyone could have more food, wouldn't that be ideal?

Mimi: *Mimi would like to eat meat forever! *

Tivey with a tired expression: *Please don't, onee-chan, you'll use up all our reserves. *

Yes, Subaru emphasized. Subaru was concerned that the villagers would start asking him where he came from to use such strange techniques, but so far no one seemed interested. He assumed that few villagers ventured far from home, so they were unaware of much of the outside world or how unusual Subaru's story was. These techniques were very successful in my homeland, providing much more food for the population. I want to emphasize that you know these lands, I do not. The crops I have described are one way of doing things, but I do not believe for a moment that they are the best way to do them. As you experiment with different crop cycles, you will likely find superior combinations that work even better for your own lands.

Mr. Subaru, asked the chief. If we wanted to implement these techniques, how would we begin?

Crush: *At least he's not trying to impose things right away, so they'll trust him more and feel that he really cares about them.

Wilhelm: *You're doing well, Subaru-dono. It's good to listen to everyone's opinions, without exception, so they'll see that you're different.

Anastasia: *Now let's see how Natsuki-kun will respond. Apparently, the boss is interested in improving things after all.

Felt: *Who would have thought that big brother could have done this before? Things would have been better for everyone. *

Otto pinched the bridge of his nose: *Natsuki-san, when we get back, I'll get all the information I can from you. This stuff will be very useful for the camp. *

Well, it's too late in the spring to do a full rotation, Subaru explained, after thinking about this question. You have fields that you left fallow this year, and you can't plant them with any voracious crops. You've exhausted the soil, and it needs to rest and recover before you can produce more high-quality crops. But you could grow turnips and clover in them this year and have food for the new animals you acquire. If you start early, you could even get several harvests from the fields and ensure that the animals have enough grass throughout the year. The healthier the animals are, the better the manure they will provide and the more they will benefit you.

When the meeting ended, Subaru had a terrible headache. The townspeople were enthusiastic about Subaru's suggestions, and this weighed heavily on him. I've never grown a vegetable in my life! How sure am I that this is really going to work? What if it's a total disaster and I lead the people of Arlam into famine?

Julius: *It was logical, if they had started earlier, they wouldn't have had any problems, but Subaru did very well anyway.

Roswaal: *Hmm, it seems that if our Subaru-kun set his mind to it, he would give us some good ideas fufufu, I hope he at least remembers some things.

Ram: It's Barusu Roswaal-sama, you shouldn't have any expectations of him at all.

Rem: *You shouldn't worry too much, Subaru-kun. Rem believes you'll do wonderfully, as you always do, my hero. *

Al: Yeah, well, enjoy the fact that your actions are working out great, bro, and that you haven't caused a pandemic yet, hehe. *

In other words, apart from probably ruining any chance of being selected or obtaining Emilia the Dragon's blood, people could die because of my mistake! Am I really willing to accept that responsibility?

Subaru sighed. Any chance you had to back out is gone. The villagers trust you and are trying out your ideas because of that trust. You're responsible for what happens to them, whether you like it or not. I should probably prepare for the worst-case scenario. If there's a disaster and all the crops are lost, what do I do?

I guess I should start preparing a reserve fund. That should help both Arlam and the royal selection—in both cases, I'll need money. That huge bag of gold Reinhard brought will definitely help me. If the crops fail this fall, I can use all that gold to buy food for the villagers. I won't regain their trust, but at least they won't die because of my stupidity.

Subaru and company delayed their return to the mansion to visit Petra's house. Petra blushed bright red when she saw Subaru, but this time she managed to stammer, "Hello, Mr. Subaru," she squeaked. "You really don't have to call me Sir," Subaru told Petra. She blushed even redder and then fell silent. "Hello, Petra," Emilia said. "Big sister!" Petra looked delighted and ran to hug Emilia.

Emilia looked so cute kneeling next to Petra, telling her about everything the villager had been up to lately, that Subaru stopped what he was doing just to watch them. He only remembered his purpose when Petra's mother spoke to him. "Mr. Subaru, it's an unexpected pleasure. The woman bowed sharply. "What can I do for you?"

Ah, yes, Subaru remembered. "I need some materials for something I'm making. Can I buy two spools of thread and a roll of fabric from you?" The woman looked at Subaru in surprise. "If you need any sewing work done, I'd be happy to do it, Mr. Subaru." "Oh, this isn't sewing, it's just a project I'm working on. It's for research," Subaru replied. The woman looked a little confused, but she returned to her hut. Any particular color? she asked.

Felix: *At least he'll take responsibility for any damage caused, nya, that says a lot, Nyajaja*

Tivey: *Even if that were the case, Subaru's ideas will surely bear fruit thanks to his ability to explain things in detail and the confidence he brings*

Al: *I guessed that the bro would buy food for everyone*

Frederica looked at the little maid with a smile: *There you go, Petra-chan, I can tell from a distance that you like Subaru-sama, fufufu*

Petra hid her face in her hands as she blushed.

Anastasia quickly looked at Tivey and Julius: *Guys, write down absolutely everything*

Tivey and Julius: *Yes, Anastasia-sama*

It doesn't matter, Subaru replied. The seamstress returned with a roll of red fabric and two spools of blue and green thread. Here you are, my lord. Please accept this with my respects, she said, handing them to Subaru with another bow. Thank you, kind lady, said Subaru, taking the items. Please accept this with my respects, he offered her one of the gold coins Reinhard had brought. The seamstress looked surprised. Oh, no, my lord! That's too much!

Think fast! Subaru tossed the coin into the air, and Petra's mother instinctively caught it before it hit the ground. It's a pleasure doing business with you, Mrs. Leyte, Subaru said with a smile, walking back toward Emilia as Petra's mother continued to express her profuse gratitude.

Petra noticed Subaru approaching and quickly said goodbye to Emilia, fleeing back to the safety of her mother. Subaru and Emilia said goodbye to Petra and her mother and then walked hand in hand back to the carriage. You know, Petra was telling me some very interesting things, Emilia said, sounding quite amused. Oh? It seems she's quite smitten with you, Subaru, Emilia said with a smile.

Oh, my goodness, Subaru said with feigned concern. I hope you put her mind at ease by telling her that my heart already belongs to someone else. Are you in love with someone? She must be amazing, Emilia said, trying to joke, but failing and sounding gloomy. You deserve someone amazing. Someone very, very special. Do I know her? Subaru laughed and kissed her hand. Obviously, you don't know her as well as I do.

After returning to the mansion, Emilia decided to spend some time researching in the library. Subaru had found an old desk abandoned in the stable while helping to store the carriage and asked if he could bring it inside.

This resulted in Subaru, Reinhard, Rem, and Ram carrying the desk to an isolated room that Subaru could use as a workshop for his experiment. In reality, only Rem and Reinhard carried it. Ram refused to even touch the old, dusty desk, and Subaru was well aware that his contribution to moving it did more harm than good.

Anastasia: *Although I think Natsuki-san can do things much better, giving him a gold coin is too kind, but well, that's just how he is*

Julius shook his head: Even if it was a good deed, such a move is unbecoming of a gentleman. You should not throw things at a lady.

Al: *But would you throw coins at a prostitute... And again, Al was knocked down and thrown onto the cold theater floor by a kick from his mistress.

Priscilla, irritated: *Don't say such words in my divine presence, Aldebaran. Remember your position, jester. *

Frederica: *Wow, Petra-chan, you didn't know I would talk about such things with Emilia-sama? Fufufu, how sweet you are. *

Ricardo: It's the Lolimancer in action again! He's already managed to captivate the little one. Bwahahahah. *

Ram crossing her arms: *Ha, Barusu is crazy if the great Ram would touch that thing full of dirt. At least admit that he can't help leaving things to my poor little sister*

Meanwhile, Emilia was thinking about making Subaru always greet her with a kiss on the hand, or making him do it all the time.

Meanwhile, Rem felt jealous. She also wanted her hero to kiss her hand and other parts.

After leaving him, Ram walked away without comment, and Rem bowed respectfully to Subaru and Reinhard before hurrying after her sister. "Thank you, Rem!" he called after her. "So, you plan to turn this into your sewing machine?" Reinhard asked. "Well, that's the plan." "No promises," Subaru said sadly as Beatrice entered the room with Puck. Do you think I can help you in any way? Reinhard asked. 

Subaru grimaced. Unfortunately, I don't think so. This is going to be done entirely with my brain, which means we're probably doomed. Reinhard laughed. Cheer up, my friend. Lady Emilia and I have a lot of confidence in you, and I'm sure you won't disappoint us. Great, no pressure, Subaru laughed. Well, if you don't need my help right now, I think I'll go find Felt, said Reinhard.

Good idea. I'm already setting aside a few hours to count the money before returning to the capital. Don't make things worse by letting her wander around unsupervised, said Subaru. Reinhard laughed as he left the room. Subaru looked at Beatrice, who was sitting in a nearby chair hugging Puck. She thinks I'm joking, he said to Beatrice with his lips. Beatrice didn't respond. You know, I'm glad you're here, Beako said Subaru. I wanted to talk to you a little more about that person.

Subaru showed Puck the drawings he had made of various gears he would need, as well as a sewing machine frame and a needle. Puck used magic to get them at Subaru's request and then left with Emilia.

Two hours later, it was almost dinner time. Beatrice and Subaru had spent the entire time talking about that person, but they hadn't come up with any new information. Beatrice had only been given a brief mission statement, and everything she knew about the person she had been waiting for for centuries was based on assumptions.

Didn't your mother ever tell you how to identify that person? Subaru asked, trying to hide his irritation. Subaru had no idea who Puck and Beatrice's mother was, but he would have loved to accuse her of parental negligence. I guess she said I would know, Beatrice said in a gloomy voice. Subaru hid his face when he frowned so that Beatrice wouldn't see it.

Reinhard: *So... Subaru will try to recreate that "sewing machine" from his memories? He must be completely confident in his reasoning and judgment to do so.

Tivey: *But considering what he said in this chapter, do you think he'll really use it less often?

Beatrice: *I guess not, actually. Betty's Subaru is a hopeless fool. He probably won't be able to remember any gears or parts and will use it anyway. *

Emilia looked at Beatrice reproachfully: *Betty, even though Subaru can be a little stubborn sometimes, don't you think you're being too hard on him? Maybe he will use it less*

Garfiel: *Ha, look how the captain is using that cat! I hope he doesn't reward him for what he does*

Anastasia: *Using magic for the first prototype of the machine, then making it with much better parts, I definitely have to make a business alliance with him. *

Roswaal: *Fufufu, Subaru-kun, you would never understand Sensei's greatness. Although she may be unorthodox, she is undoubtedly someone to admire. *

Ram clicked her tongue as she muttered something about that witch.

I'd love to be locked up with that woman for about fifteen minutes, Subaru thought. Come to think of it, the creature that created Puck and Beatrice is surely out of my league, but the idea still holds water. I'd love to be locked up with her for about five seconds. Just let me out when Indomitable shuts down.

Subaru had managed to connect the gears and the needle to the sewing machine frame so that when the gears turned, the needle went up and down. So at least the easy part was done. Beako, let's try it from another perspective. What is the library? What is it for? Subaru asked, trying to think of how to connect the existing gears to a pedal.

Damn, how does a pedal convert to rotational energy? I don't think any of my Legos had a pedal. I guess up-and-down movements to generate rotational energy aren't very common.

Subaru stared at a blank sheet of paper as he tried to figure out what kind of gear he would need to ask Puck to make next. He was sure he had seen something capable of doing that. In the meantime, Subaru drew a spring for the pedal—he knew he would need one of those anyway.

The library is the repository of all of Mom's vast knowledge, Beatrice replied. Fabulous! Another explanation that explains nothing! Is Beako doing this on purpose? Subaru wondered. Okay, Subaru said. He had to phrase it delicately. Tell me about your mother. What kind of person was she?

Betty's mother was the best and smartest person who ever lived, and she adored Betty and gave her her important task, Beatrice replied. That's not an adequate description, Subaru sighed as he finished drawing his spring.

Garfiel clenching his fists: Ha, my incredible self also wants to be with the captain when that happens. That witch will pay for everything!

Julius: *Although Subaru's anger is justified, intending to strike a lady is quite unbecoming of a gentleman* (as always, the gentleman being one with the code of chivalry).

Roswaal: Subaru-kun~ I hope it's not what we're thinking~, I won't let you touch a single hair on Sensei's head*

Beatrice looked away when she heard him speak so respectfully to her mother: *Hmph, I guess Betty already knows Mother's intentions. In fact, if it weren't for Subaru, Betty would still be there doing nothing*

Emilia: *Hmm, I think Betty looks adorable when she talks like that, even though Echidna treated me sooo badly in the tests*

Meanwhile, Anastasia was writing about the different mechanisms needed for the "sewing machine," and Tivey and Julius were also doing the same in case anyone overlooked anything.

What I meant was, if that person was meant to inherit your mother's library, then they must have had some connection to her. She must have wanted her knowledge to go to someone who would use it to solve the problems she cared about, right? So, what was your mother working on when she died? Subaru asked. Everything, I suppose, Beatrice replied.

Wait! I remember a weird gear with a shaft sticking out of one side! So, if the shaft moved up and down, the gear had to turn. Is that right? It seems a little fragile. I mean, the shaft would have to be just the right length and position, otherwise the gear would probably roll back and forth instead of turning. Wait. Did Beatrice just say everything?

So, your mother was working on everything? Subaru repeated, starting to sketch the new equipment. Define everything. Everything, Beatrice emphasized. Mom was desperate about the state of the world and was determined to fix it. She wanted to protect everyone from bad things and devoted all her knowledge to figuring out how to do that.

So, Beatrice's mother was crazy or foolish? I feel overwhelmed trying to fix a small town, let alone fix the whole world, Subaru thought. Well, that's pretty useful information, right? Subaru said to Beatrice as he finished his sketch. Well, that's it. I'm done, Subaru said, standing up. I need Puck to make the new gears anyway. Beatrice looked at Subaru with sulky eyes, her short legs kicking the air from her chair.

If your mother was determined to save the world, we just need to find someone else who will try to save it. I bet she wanted to pass on the knowledge in the library to someone like that. It makes sense, right? Subaru asked her. Beatrice thought about it. We find them and ask them if they're that person, I guess. Not exactly, Subaru said, approaching Beatrice. I have to be careful. This has to be worded just right or she'll just reject it outright, Subaru thought.

Anastasia sighed: *Although it may sound like a good thing, there are several things to consider... like his personality. *

Al scratched the back of his neck: *Hmm, if I remember correctly, in addition to the spring to return it to its original position, as Bro says, you need to do something to make it turn, thus providing the rotational force, and it also needs to be connected to something to make it turn. *

Beatrice pouted: "I guess what Betty's Subaru wants to do is make a gear that turns while the pedal can actually raise and lower the needle."

Roswaal: "That's~ quite rude, Subaru-kun~. Sensei wasn't crazy, and she's not stupid either. You should respect her more."

Emilia: *But... that's what Subaru is doing, isn't it? He's been saving the world from the archbishops and the great Mabeast. *

Petra: *Poor Beatrice-sama, who can only be there to say that. *

I'm starting to wonder if your mother wanted you to choose that person. I don't think she wanted you to stay in the library waiting for someone to tell you who that person was. Anyone could have done it, not just her beloved daughter, Subaru continued, anticipating Beatrice's objection. Beatrice immediately opened her mouth to protest, but closed it again. Your mother must have had a reason for entrusting you with this job. It had to be something important, something only Beako could do, Subaru continued.

If I'm saying this as speculation, does that mean I'm not blatantly lying to that poor girl? Because I don't think anything is going on here, except that a self-centered, evil woman gave her beloved daughter a job and then completely forgot about her. Still, I can't prove it, so I'm not... technically lying to Beako, right? Subaru mused.

So, what can you do that no one else in the world can? Well, you know your mother better than anyone, right? Subaru asked. Beatrice nodded immediately. So, you're the perfect person to identify and evaluate anyone who wants to take on the task of saving the world. Maybe you're not waiting for someone to tell you that they're that person, maybe someone on the outside needs you to tell them. He concluded.

Beatrice seemed to be seriously considering what Subaru said, so he simply knelt down beside her and was careful not to move her while she thought. But that was never written in Betty's Gospel... Beatrice interrupted herself. In your what? Never mind, I guess. Beatrice looked down at her hands, lost in thought. Subaru asked quietly. What if Betty's future had stopped being written, stopped changing? What would that mean?

Subaru thought about it for a moment. If Beatrice was using his name, then this question was very important to her. He had to answer it carefully. I think it means you need to make some changes. You've been in the same room for four hundred years. You plan to stay in the same room for another four hundred years unless someone tells you otherwise. How is it possible that your future hasn't stopped? If you don't change anything, nothing will change!

Crush had a smile on her face: *Seriously... Subaru has a way with words; he always has something just at the right moment*

Rem: *That's right, Subaru-kun, just as you set Rem's time in motion, you can also set Beatrice-sama's time in motion again*

Al: *Well, he already has his second Loli, who's next*?

Felix: *But Subaru-kyun hasn't said anything about his past nya, he probably still thinks he's a loser and that it's all thanks to the authority of pride nya*

Wilhelm: *Subaru-dono, even though you must protect others, remember that others also want to protect you. You shouldn't keep carrying everything on your shoulders. *

Beatrice: *I guess... everything, in fact, Betty's Subaru has done everything for Betty, so... Betty's Subaru isn't lying to her. *

Beatrice's eyes opened wide, and something sparkled deep within them. Well, that really struck me, but don't ask me why. I don't even know what I'm saying. I just want Beatrice to stop passively waiting for someone who may never come and go out and look for him. Even if she never finds him, she'll be surrounded by people. She'll make friends and see new things. She wouldn't be so heartbreakingly alone anymore.

Subaru whispered Beatrice. Would you mind being him? Subaru, dinner's ready! said Emilia, entering the room unseen, which startled them both. Thanks, Mili said Subaru, pressing a hand against his rapidly beating heart. Emilia smiled and left the room. Subaru looked at Beatrice, but whatever she had planned to ask him, the moment had clearly passed.

You should go down to dinner, I suppose, Beatrice said disdainfully as she jumped up from her chair. Good advice, Subaru nodded kindly. He bent down and offered his hand to Beatrice. Shall we go? he asked. Beatrice looked at Subaru with a confused expression. Subaru simply waited, smiling, his hand extended toward the lonely little girl. After a while, Beatrice timidly placed her hand in Subaru's, and hand in hand, they went to dinner.

After dinner, Beatrice retired to her library, and Subaru watched her leave. Beako needs to think things through, and she needs to be alone for that. If I go after her right now, I'll just push her away, Subaru thought. I should talk to Puck about Beako tomorrow; maybe he has some ideas on how to help her. But since Puck is already asleep, that means I have Emilia all to myself! Would you like to go for a walk, Emilia? You know, I love it, Subaru thought. These moments alone with you are the best part of my day.

I agree, Emilia replied. Here we can be ourselves. We don't need to work or study. We don't need to weigh the impact of our words. We don't have to worry about what others think. It's nice to be together. Trying to think about others can be very stressful. I have a brilliant idea, Subaru said. What is it? Let's run away, Subaru said with a serious expression.

Emilia laughed. What an interesting idea, she said, wrapping her arm around him. I admit, I'm intrigued. Did you have a destination in mind, or are we just going to happily hop along the highway? Subaru shrugged. I don't know. I guess as long as you're with me, I'll be very happy wherever we end up, Subaru thought for a moment. First, let's cross Gusteko off the list. I hate the cold, and they already tried to kill me once. I'm not going there, he said firmly.

Ram crossed her arms: *Hmph, Barusu doesn't even know what he's talking about, and he wants to give advice? Ha! *

Tivey: *Even if that were the case, what if this time Beatrice-sama decided to do something completely different? *

Anastasia: "Well... we'll just have to see what actions Natsuki-kun takes to resolve it."

Beatrice shook her head: "In fact, the half-elf girl is a busybody in every sense of the word, I suppose. Betty was saying something important to Betty's Subaru."

Felt: "Heh, typical of an older brother. I think he needs to recharge his batteries, Rein."

Reinhard nodded with a smile on his face: *It seems so, Felt-sama. Besides, it was a good idea to let Beatrice-sama think about the things she said to him*

Rem felt a twinge in her chest when she heard Subaru-kun tell Emilia to run away. Even though it was just a joke to them at the time, for her it was one of the moments that mattered most to her*

Al: *Heh, first they said the phrase "who is Rem" and now they're also taking away her declaration. I sense very bad luck for your future, Bro.*

Emilia laughed. That seems fair. You probably don't like the Ellior Forest either. The forest's curse means it's always cold. Subaru looked at Emilia thoughtfully. Actually, that would be a great idea for the trip. The Elior Forest? Emilia asked, surprised. Yes. I'd like to take a look at your roots. I mean, I can't show you my old home, but I could go see yours, Subaru explained.

Emilia grimaced. That just puts into perspective the effort you're making to save a place you've never been to. I'm not trying to save a place, I'm trying to save people, Subaru replied confidently. I've always cared a lot about elves, you know? Oh, and how many elves do you know? Emilia smiled smugly. Not many, but the ones I know are just amazing, Subaru replied. They came to a small stone bench under the shade of a tree. Would you like to sit down for a while? The two sat down. 

They looked up at the starry sky together. Neither of them spoke for a while. Subaru murmured, Emilia. Do you really think we can win the royal selection? It's a long shot, Subaru nodded, but I'm starting to think we won't have to. What do you mean?

At some point in the elections, when two major candidates are defined, they will ask us what it would take for us to withdraw from the race and allow them to focus on their main threat. Our price is really low—give us the blood, and we'll withdraw and let them win the prize, Subaru said with a shrug. Emilia was silent for a long time. But is that the only reason we want to win? To get the blood? she finally asked. What do you mean?

Emilia hesitated, turning away from Subaru and looking up at the stars. In recent days, you've had ideas for feeding the people and ending hunger in Lugunica. You're trying to create a machine that dresses those who wear rags. You really could make the kingdom a better place, she murmured.

Subaru laughed. I don't know anything about that. I'm a pretty clueless politician. Besides, whoever wins, I could still give suggestions and ideas to the new king. He paused. What do you think you'll do if you get the throne?

Petra: Subaru-sama will always have that kindness anywhere, that's why Subaru-sama is the greatest hero there is!

Emilia: Subaru, thank you so much, but just as you always help us... just as you always help me, I will also help you, my knight.

Crush: *But then... they would need to have a good alliance to do that, or at least make more achievements and have a considerable advantage over us. *

Anastasia: *And so, if by chance those other selves consider him a threat, they will be tempted to accept that deal. *

Julius: *At least Subaru is still thinking about bringing innovations to the kingdom, even if they don't win the throne. *

Emilia was silent for a moment. I would very much like to try to mend the rift between humans and demi-humans, she admitted. I think that's a great idea, Subaru agreed. It's an ambitious goal, but one that requires careful planning and a great deal of effort. It's the kind of dream worthy of a king.

Emilia lowered her head. Seriously, it's just an excuse. I'm really doing all this just to get the blood! How selfish of me, she snapped at herself. Subaru stared at her for a long time and then sighed. Okay, Mili! Give it to me, he ordered. Give you what?

What's really going on here? Subaru asked. When you gave me that ridiculous speech about how selfish you were for wanting to get the dragon's blood to save your people, I just assumed you were an idiot. What's an idiot? A fool. Emilia shuddered, looking hurt.

But now that I know you and know you're not a fool, what's really going on? There's something about this that makes you seem selfish, and it's not some nebulous nonsense about "I only help my own." I'm neck-deep in this stupid selection, so tell me why we're doing this. I feel like I deserve to know the truth at this point, Subaru said.

Emilia turned pale and looked away from him. Subaru waited a moment, then slowly reached out to take Emilia's hand. Emilia didn't turn to look at him, but she didn't pull her hand away either. Is it something you're afraid to talk about? Subaru whispered. Emilia hesitated, then nodded. Subaru squeezed her hand. You can talk to me about anything, Mili, he replied. She shook her head.

That hurt a little, but Subaru kept talking. Emilia, I know bad people. You're not one of them. I don't think anything you did was worse than an unfortunate mistake. What if some mistakes are unforgivable? she murmured. What if... what if you can't forgive me?

Ram snorted: *Hmph, as expected of Barusu, he's the only one who could call Emilia-sama an idiot.

Rem: *Emilia-sama, Rem is sure that Subaru-kun will help you just like he always does. That's the kind of hero Rem's hero is.

Meanwhile, Emilia was in shock. Subaru had never spoken to her that way before: "You're... a real fool, but... Subaru has always been kind to me, and he will surely help with what he has."

Julius: "Subaru shouldn't speak to his lady that way. It's quite inappropriate and disrespectful as her knight."

Beatrice crossed her arms: *Hmph, I guess Betty's Subaru and the half-elf are a perfect match after all, a pair of hopeless fools. *

Meanwhile, Roswaal narrowed his eyes: *Interesting~ Could it be... that Emilia-sama remembers something about the attack on the Ellior Forest? *

Reinhard: *It's... most likely, besides the fact that she said "mistake," and from what we know about Emilia-sama, that would be the most accurate assumption*

I'm on your side, Emilia. Now and forever, he promised. Subaru smiled slightly. Besides, I have a good track record of forgiving people. I forgave Rem for trying to kill me. I like you much more than Rem. You can take it for granted that I will always forgive you. Emilia sat silently with her head bowed for almost a minute. I caused the disaster in Elior Forest, Emilia whispered. Subaru didn't respond. He just sat there waiting patiently.

After a moment, Emilia continued the forest was attacked. I don't remember exactly what happened or why, but... I froze the forest. I lost control of my magic. I turned all the living creatures in the forest into solid ice. They're all frozen because of me! Emilia's voice broke. She began to cry. That's why I have to get the blood. I have to save them because it's my fault they died.

Emilia covered her face with her hands and sobbed. Subaru stopped time with Reason and Judgment. Damn it. I promised I'd stop using it so much. Still, Emilia really needs me right now. I need to think carefully about what to say. Subaru felt his confidence and intelligence increase as he looked at Emilia, who was crying and frozen in place. Hm. That's why she's been so hard on herself for being selfish in her search for dragon blood. At least this makes some sense.

Of course, the big question is how to make her feel better, Subaru pondered. The simplest strategy would probably be to simply assure her that you will get her the blood. That will make her feel better and reinforce her dependence on you.

Why did you have such a low chance of winning the selection from the start? You're a man from a technologically superior culture. Crop rotation and a sewing machine are just the tip of the iceberg. Imagine a cannon. You could undoubtedly design one given enough time. Imagine a steam engine. You could create an entire industrial revolution. Who else in this world could offer so much to the people of Lugunica?

Beyond that, you're already a hero. Felt says that everything in the village is going according to plan—everyone is talking about Subaru Natsuki, the invincible one, who killed a troll with his own hands to protect the defenseless villagers. Who else in the draft will suffer such a public relations uproar like that?

Ricardo: *Pst, buddy, how much do you want to bet that if, by chance, the gut hunter is still alive and will reform, the mini-boss would forgive her? *

Al: *Think beyond that, my wolf friend, she would be participating to join the bro's harem, think about it, Ricardo. *

Rem frowned at their comments: *Rem's hero wouldn't forgive Elsa, even if she became a good person. *

Priscilla: *Hmm? So, maid, are you admitting that "YOU" shouldn't be forgiven by the commoner either, since we remember that you tortured and killed him, even worse than that woman? *

Rem shuddered when the princess of the sun spoke to her. It's not the same situation. She was a murderer, while she was just... blinded by the miasma... Right?

Ram stood up to defend her beloved little sister, but a gloved hand stopped her. It was Roswaal, shaking his head to imply that it wouldn't work, as he watched the scene with a nasty smile.

Tivey: *So... Do you remember part of the incident? I imagine you don't remember everything because of your contract with your former spirit. *

Reinhard: *Subaru wants... to get the dragon's blood himself instead of Emilia-sama getting it herself. *

Julius wanted to reply that, even though he is her knight, he should make his lady more independent and not the other way around, but Anastasia gave him a look, telling him to write about the cannon and those steam engines and that industrial revolution.

Beatrice frowned: *I guess... Betty doesn't like how Subaru is thinking, actually*

Crush: *He's thinking about some pretty... innovative things, but*

Wilhelm: *As you say, just like you, Crush-sama, I have a bad feeling about it*

It would be absurd to conclude that the selection has already been decided in your favor. Much can happen in two years, and it is even possible that someone else will take the initiative. But even in this unlikely scenario, in which you are denied the throne, it is entirely feasible that you could acquire the blood through negotiations with your rival. Even if the throne is in doubt, possession of the blood is guaranteed. You simply need to remind Emilia that you are on her side and that you will solve her problem. The blood will be hers, and the matter will be resolved.

Subaru was about to unfreeze time and execute this plan when he felt as if a quieter, more timid voice in his mind had broken his long-standing confidence to intervene.

No, I'm not sure. I don't think that's what Mili needs to hear. If I just give her the blood, if I'm the one who heals the elves, that won't ease her guilt. She desperately wants to make amends for her mistake. It's admirable. This is Mili's problem, and she wants to take responsibility for it. I can't solve it on my own.

That's nonsense. You're overcomplicating it, another part of Subaru replied. You know you can definitely solve her problems, and you would solve them better than the lovely Emilia could ever dream of. She's lucky to have you on her team. It doesn't matter who solves the problem, as long as Emilia's guilt is alleviated. If the elves are saved, there's nothing to feel guilty about.

No, I'm not that foolish. It's not just about saving the elves for Emilia's sake; it's about atoning for a mistake. Whether I like it or not, it's not my problem. I hardly have anything to do with this matter. It's about Mili. If I rush in like a knight, sure, the problem is solved, but I don't think Emilia will feel any better. Honestly, I'm worried that if I solve the problem, it might make her feel even more like a failure...

You don't need to overthink this, Subaru, replied the other party. You will receive the blood. Your victory is assured. So put her mind at ease. If she needs to get more involved to ease her guilt, just assign Emilia some small tasks so she feels she contributed adequately to the victory. She wants to feel better. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth. A possible additional advantage is that this would reinforce Emilia's dependence on you. You're still worried that she'll abandon you one day. If you convince her that you will save her people and make up for her big mistake, her investment in you will be complete. She will never consider abandoning you again.

Emilia: *I don't want to get it that way, Subaru... I want to try hard; I don't want to be a simple doll like Roswaal and Puck wanted... silly*

Otto's eyes widened as he listened to the new conversation that was emerging: *W-what is... that? Is Natsuki-san talking to himself*?

Garfiel: Hey, that's not how the captain acts! He wouldn't ignore our opinions.

Beatrice narrowed her eyes: *What I suspected, at least Betty's Subaru is still thinking about making the girl do what he wants, I guess.

Meanwhile, Roswaal had a smile that reached his eyes: *Ahh~ what a magnificent scene you're showing me, Subaru-kun~ if only you had always been like this, you would be a good accomplice*

Felt shrank in her seat: *R-Rein, what the hell is wrong with my big brother?

Reinhard: *That, Felt-sama, is... probably what that Authority of Pride wants him to be. He doesn't think he needs anyone's help. He believes he can do it alone without any problems. *

Felix: *Is Subaru-kyun really thinking that, nya? It's just absurd, nya. *

Julius: *We must assume that... the second voice would be that of the Authority, the one that can do anything. *

Wilhelm clenched his fists: *Subaru-dono, don't be influenced by that thing. Helping others achieve their goals is one of your virtues. *

Priscilla opened her fan to cool herself, but her eyes watched this with interest.

No. I can't do that to her. Mili needs support. She needs to know that I understand how she feels and that I understand why she's so determined to make amends for her mistakes. And most importantly, she needs to know that a single mistake, however tragic, does not define her entire life. Subaru thawed time before he could doubt himself any further.

Subaru wrapped one arm around Emilia's shoulders. He convinced her to rest her head on his shoulder and stroked her hair as she cried. After a few minutes, Emilia cried until she was out of breath. She looked up at Subaru with teary eyes, expecting condemnation. Emilia whispered. You're the opposite of selfish. Emilia was speechless. How can you say that? I only want the blood because it's my fault that everyone froze! I'm trying to escape my own guilt! Subaru said indifferently. What do you mean, no?

How many years did you stay in the forest with Puck after this disaster? Emilia frowned. Seven, maybe? If you only wanted to escape your guilt, you would have left the forest. You would have moved away and forged a new life in a place where you weren't constantly reminded of your mistake, Subaru pointed out.

I couldn't do that! Emilia protested. I know, Subaru agreed. I expected nothing less from you. Emilia remained silent against his shoulder. I'm just trying to correct my mistake, she sighed. You'd be surprised how many people would bother to do that, Subaru replied. Emilia frowned doubtfully and looked at Subaru. Subaru leaned down and kissed Emilia's forehead. I'm very proud of you, Emilia, he said. Emilia looked at Subaru with wide eyes. What? Why? Why are you saying that? 

Mili, I know you made a mistake that hurt a lot of people. You weren't one of the people who got hurt. But you took responsibility for that mistake and are determined to make amends. No one forced you to try to make amends—you imposed it on yourself. You know you hurt others and are determined to make up for it. That takes a lot of courage. And a lot of compassion. Emilia looked at Subaru in shock.

Subaru shrugged. Like I said, Mili, you're the opposite of selfish. I'm very proud of you, Emilia. You'll be a great king. Emilia's eyes filled with tears again and she cried. Subaru hugged her until her tears ran dry.

Frederica, Rem, and Petra had smiles on their faces, although they feared that "voice" would change him, that didn't happen, and he remains that kind and gentle man.

Emilia had tears in her eyes at the scene: "Yes... I'll do that, Subaru. I'll try my best, just like you always try your best with everyone."

Roswaal, although he no longer had a big smile on his face, was very pleased with what he saw. Perhaps this other self could do something.

Ricardo: *If that's true, almost no one would do that for a mistake they made. In my opinion, that's being too kind. *

Al: *You can say that again. Winning the royal selection to correct that? God, give him the peace prize. *

The next morning, after breakfast, Emilia and Puck retired to the library to research relations between humans and demi-humans and think of ways to improve them. Subaru went in search of Beatrice. He searched the mansion until he found her library, and upon entering, he found her sitting on her stool, staring intently at a huge black book almost as big as she was.

When Beatrice saw Subaru, she immediately put the book down and placed other books on top of it as if trying to hide it in the least subtle way imaginable. "And what are you doing here? Come to bother Betty again, I suppose?" "It's one of my favorite pastimes," Subaru nodded. He watched Beatrice closely. She looked tired and nervous that morning. Subaru guessed that she had spent most of the night thinking and that she didn't like the conclusions she had come to.

Well, that could be good or bad. Her original view of the world wasn't working for her. If she accepted the need to change it, it would undoubtedly be painful, but in the long run it would be better for her, Subaru thought.

Subaru had come to talk to Beatrice about that person and his mission, but seeing her tired and haggard face, he changed his mind. He was going to try to fix that sewing machine a little more. I was wondering if I could convince you to come. Yesterday you pointed out a flaw that would have taken me all day to notice. Subaru considered suggesting that they talk more about the search for that person, but he bit his tongue. If Beatrice wanted to talk about it, she would bring it up.

Hm. So, I guess you want Betty to help you, huh? Beatrice said with a smirk. Subaru felt he was on dangerous ground. If you're willing, yes, he said cautiously. For centuries, people have come to the Great Library seeking to use the Great Spirit Beatrice! He informed her.

I'm not trying to use you, Beako. I just asked if you'd be willing to help me, Subaru said. Beatrice didn't respond. Subaru walked over to the futon and lay down. Do people often come here trying to... take advantage of your generosity? Subaru asked. Beatrice snorted. I guess people always come here to try to use Betty. Betty is a Great Spirit! The guardian of Mother's vast knowledge. Everyone wants something from Betty! Subaru waited a moment. And what does Betty want? Subaru murmured.

Beatrice: *Please, Betty's Subaru has told you what you need to hear, I suppose, just... put down that book that has been useless to us for four hundred years, in fact.

Ram: *Hmph, at least Barusu knows when he can talk about a subject and when he can't, it seems he can learn.

Emilia: *That... sounds horrible, Betty. How is it possible that... they only seek what they want?

Crush: *At least try to give her enough space to reflect on what she said herself. *

Al: Heh, say that to the people who believe the earth is flat... wait a minute... The earth is flat here!

Julius: *I admit that... Subaru is doing a good job dealing with Beatrice-sama. You have to keep in mind that it's not an easy thing to do. *

Beatrice glared at Subaru with fire in her eyes. Subaru tensed, preparing to activate Indomitable in case Beatrice really lost control. Betty wants to end this! Betty wants to fulfill her contract with Mother and end this! Beatrice shouted. And find that person, Subaru nodded.

Where are they?! Beatrice shouted. Why did they leave Betty alone all this time? Why did Betty deserve to be trapped here for so long? I guess Betty didn't deserve to be remembered! Subaru hesitated. Beatrice is absolutely worthy of being remembered and certainly didn't deserve to be trapped here. Something in your mother's plan must have gone wrong, Subaru said simply. So now it's up to us to fix it, isn't it?

Beatrice looked at Subaru silently. Do you think your worthy of fixing Mom's plan? Do you think you can do what Betty can't? Subaru formulated his answer carefully. I'm not saying either of those things. I'm saying that two people can often do what one person can't. You've been trying to fix it on your own for centuries without success, and dozens, maybe hundreds, of people have come to this library to ask for your help. I want to help you.

Beatrice looked away and turned up her nose. And you think you're the first? she snapped. What do you mean? Subaru murmured. Many have come to Mom's library with tears in their eyes, offering to help, even to save Betty! Promising they can make everything better, that they can cure Betty's loneliness! Subaru looked at the great spirit with tears in her eyes. And how does that make you feel?

Feel? It makes me angry, actually! Do mortals even imagine four hundred years of waiting, of loneliness? Waiting for that person to come along?! Oh, God. Mental note: I need to be much kinder to Puck and much more considerate of his feelings toward me and his daughter. If I had been alone for about four hundred years, I would also be very afraid of being alone again.

Mimi: *Mimi agrees with the mini-boss, except for the cat, he needs to be bombarded*

Ricardo shuddered even though he didn't know what that word meant, but if Mimi said it, it must be something chaotic.

Anastasia: *Yes, yes, it's okay, Mimi. Look, here! A piece of candy* -(YAY!)

Beatrice curled up more in Subaru's lap: I guess... only Betty's Subaru can have Betty, in fact*

Meanwhile, Al raised his only arm and shouted: *Bomb Peru! -And as always, the cold theater floor welcomed him with open arms*

Rem: *Subaru-kun, that's why you're Rem's hero. With your pure heart, you brighten everyone's days*

Otto: *Well, two heads are better than one, right?

I suppose they think they can ease Betty's sadness and despair by holding her hand and patting her on the head! In fact, they think Betty just needs a friend! Beatrice cried, tears streaming down her face.

Subaru waited a moment. No one understands how you feel, he encouraged her. Beatrice turned to him and pointed at Subaru as if casting a curse. You don't either, in fact! Beatrice snapped. Subaru nodded. You're right. I don't know how you feel. How could I? I'm eighteen. You've seen one hundred and eighty-two times. I have no idea what that's like. I just know that you're suffering and you shouldn't be. Beatrice gasped for air, staring at Subaru. That's why we're going to find that person, right? she asked.

Beatrice bit her lip. Subaru, could you? Betty, are you okay? Puck asked from behind Subaru. Subaru turned around and saw Emilia and Puck standing in the doorway. We came to investigate. We heard screaming, Emilia said, almost apologetically. It's okay, Subaru replied. Right, Beatrice? Beatrice didn't answer.

Subaru left the library after Beatrice took out another book and stood there pretending to read it. He waited a few minutes before concluding that his presence was no longer welcome and went down to his workshop to continue working on the machine. The machine was almost finished, in fact. However, one component was still missing, and Subaru couldn't remember what it was.

Mom's sewing machine had a gear under the needle. A strangely shaped gear that... connected the stitches somehow. Damn, I don't remember what it looked like, let alone how it worked.

Felix: *It would be like comparing any knight to the saint of the sword nya, it would be absurd in the first place*

Crush: *He's right, it would be unimaginable for anyone to think about the amount of time spent in solitude*

Ricardo: *Or to compare someone who was a slave with someone who wasn't, they would have different perspectives*

Beatrice clutched her head as she watched Bubby and the silly half-elf interrupt something important once again: *I guess the silly half-elf girl is actually doing it on purpose*

Mimi: *She's like the pink-haired maid, arriving when everything is calm and wanting to take all the credit! *

Ram: *Insolent girl, the great Ram does more than you actually do. *

While Rem looked at her disappointedly* *Nee-sama, are you really fighting with a child? *

Petra's eyes lit up when she saw the sewing machine. When they got back, she would ask Subaru to make one for her.

Anastasia: *It seems that... reason and judgment are not active in things she has been working on before. Let's see if Natsuki-kun can solve it without activating it. *

Actually, maybe this is a good thing. It could suggest that the influence of Reason and Judgment on my mind has a limit, although not being able to operate this machine could hurt our electoral chances. Maybe I can figure it out from the basic principles? Why don't I try to solve it without using Reason and Judgment? I did a little sewing when I was young, so how would I make a good stitch using gears? After two hours of pondering the issue, Subaru had gotten nowhere.

Okay, fine. I'm not that smart. I don't know how to do these things. Asking Beatrice if she has any ideas might be an option, but I don't think Beatrice wants to talk to me right now. Besides, if I need to ask her for help with the sewing machine, it will only weaken my argument later on when I say I just want to help her. It will only reinforce her suspicions that I'm trying to use her. Yes, so it would be wrong for me to ask her for help.

So, what am I left with? Am I going to give up? No, I can't. Emilia and Red are convinced that I can do it. I don't want to disappoint them.

Well... then I only have one option left, right? I need to use Reason and Judgment. I mean, there's no other choice. I know I decided to limit its use, but... things happen, you know? I know it could be affecting me negatively, but so far, I haven't noticed any major changes. Besides, everyone is depending on me, I can't disappoint them. I can handle Reason and Judgment. Anyway, I'm just speculating about whether it will affect me negatively.

Subaru activated Reason and Judgment, and the world froze around him. Subaru remembered his mother's broken sewing machine from years ago. As if he had ordered it, an image of the open machine appeared in front of him, clear and perfect. Curiously, the rest of the memory seemed... blurry. Subaru had never seen Reason and Judgment display a memory in low resolution. The sewing machine looked sharp, but the room in Subaru's house and the figures of his parents, much younger, were so sharp and pixelated that if you didn't know what you were looking at, you would never guess.

Ram: *Hmph, just like at the mansion, Barusu is incapable of doing anything right without needing help.

Petra in a whisper that only Frederica heard: *At least Subaru-sama does chores much better than you, Ram nee-sama, hmph.

Tivey: *Perhaps Beatrice-sama doesn't think so, but it's understandable if she can't handle it, let alone help her.

Emilia pouting: *Subaru, when will you learn to keep a promise, young man? Now you'll go two days without a lap pillow. *

Roswaal settled into his chair: *Wow~ but how intriguing, actually. Although the hint seems clear, the rest is not*

Reinhard with a concerned tone: *This... hasn't happened before, not even when he was in the alley, and not even that "voice" from before*

This seemed strange, but Subaru decided it had no real relevance to what he was there to accomplish. Subaru stared at the strange gear beneath the sewing needle. Wow. The gear is shaped like a hook, so... Ah! That's how it works! It wraps the other thread around the first one. How clever! It should be so easy to draw that Puck would reproduce it. Why did you think it was difficult? 

You need to start using Reason and Judgment more often. Why did you try to stop using it? To prove something?

You wasted several hours trying to do something that could have been done in minutes. If it were only inefficiency that affected you, it would be easy to stop using Reason and Judgment. You certainly don't depend on it. But you have people who depend on you, and you can't disappoint them by performing at less than 100%. There's no choice but to keep using Reason and Judgment. It's the only option. You can always stop using it later if you feel it's starting to affect you.

Subaru restarted time and whistled to himself as he drew detailed images of the remaining gears.

Reinhard and Felt came to find Subaru shortly after that. My friend Felt and I were thinking of returning to the capitol for today. Felt wants to see how Master Rom is doing, Reinhard said. Sounds like a good plan, Subaru agreed. While you're there, would you mind running some errands for me? Of course, Reinhard said. Subaru listed a few items and handed Reinhard a bag of gold.

Emilia shook her head: "Subaru, you really don't understand. You don't realize what's happening to you! That... that's not right."

Beatrice: "I guess it's a lie, actually. Betty's Subaru is such an idiot that he won't stop using it until it's too late."

Ram crossed her arms: "It's not going to be like that, Barusu. Feeling proud of that, I hope you reconsider."

Rem: "Although Rem's hero always strives for everyone, this feels different, as if... they were just tools."

Felt: *How is Grandpa Rom doing? Even though he's a guardian, he said that time doesn't pass at all. I wish he were here... Wait a minute, could the guardian bring him here? *

Reinhard: *Errands? What could Subaru need from the capital? Maybe it's something for the sewing machine he's creating. *

If you have any expenses during the trip, just take them out of the bag. Also, while you're in town, could you buy some paper and writing supplies for Felt so she can start researching the slum dwellers? Oh, and now that I think of it, Subaru reached into his pocket and handed Felt a gold coin.

What's this for? she asked. It's your pay for the first week. I know you shouldn't be paid until the end of the week, but there's not much to buy around here, and you might see something in town that interests you, so consider it an advance, Subaru explained. Yes, but I haven't actually done anything for you yet, Felt pointed out. Subaru shrugged. Hey, you've been here, ready, willing, and able to work. The fact that I'm not ready for you to work yet is my problem, not yours. Still, you'll be compensated for your time.

Felt thought for a moment. Well, why don't I start today? I'm not afraid to stay in the city, I can take care of myself without Red... Subaru said emphatically before Reinhard could open his mouth. Felt looked offended, almost rebellious.

I don't want to reveal our intentions to our rivals before we're ready, Subaru added in a reassuring tone. If they find out that we plan to empty the slums before we announce it, they might try to steal the spotlight in the selection. Losing a few days won't matter much in the long run.

I'd also like you two to investigate our rivals while you're in the city, Subaru continued before Felt could respond. If we can find out who the other competitors are, we can come up with better strategies. That should be easy. I'm sure people are talking about it, Felt said. We'll ask Grandpa. I'm sure his clients have told him. Subaru coughed. Hey, one last thing. It's a sensitive... personal matter that I need to ask you about, and I'd prefer to keep it between us.

Al he whistled: *Wow, bro, you pay him his salary without him doing anything... where do I sign up? *

Ricardo: *In the world of the mini-boss and yours, do they pay people without them doing anything? That sounds wonderful. *

(I wish it were like that.)

Reinhard: *It's a good idea, that way Felt-sama can get ahead on the interviews in the slums. *

Felt sighed: *At least it's much better than staying in that pigsty. *

Crush: *It's a good move, he's cautious and doesn't want to give out any information, it would be a pleasure to form an alliance with Subaru. *

Anastasia: *An interesting way to gather information, even if he doesn't have a sophisticated network yet. Besides, there's always someone with a loose tongue in bars. *

Petra looked confused: *Frederica nee-sama, what could Subaru-sama want that he's acting like this? *

Of course. You have my word of honor that I will not breathe a word of this matter, as a knight of the realm and as your friend, Reinhard declared. Felt looked at Reinhard and raised an eyebrow. Yeah, whatever he said, Felt sighed, crossing her arms.

Subaru sighed. Emilia and I are getting closer and... there are certain things we need to take responsibility for, and since Emilia isn't familiar with them and I'm a stranger in these lands... I'm not sure what our options are. I'm not sure I understand, Reinhard admitted. Subaru fumbled for an easy explanation. Emilia and I are engaged, and things can happen, so we need to... Avoid becoming parents? Felt asked cheerfully.

Subaru sighed. Essentially. He was trying to figure out what options there were in Lugunica, because neither of them knew. Reinhard's face was the same color as his hair. Felt laughed. Relax, Subaru! Most women in town take a panacea to prevent unexpected pregnancies. Alchemists make it, and it's not that expensive. I'll buy Emilia a few months' supply. Is this panacea safe for elves or just humans? Subaru asked.

Felt shrugged. It can't be that bad. All the demi-human prostitutes I know take it. All right then, Subaru said awkwardly. Take the gold you need from the bag. Anyway, a three-month supply should only cost about five silver coins, Felt said with a shrug. And while you're talking to Rom, ask him if he'd consider doing some work for me, Subaru said. Like what? Felt asked.

I don't know what, but let's try to think of something he can do! The truth is, I'd like to give him some gold so he could live a little more comfortably than living in the slums, but I know he'd object, Subaru replied. Yeah, it's Grandpa, Felt nodded. I'm pretty sure I'll find a bag full of gold when I get back, even though I told him to start spending it. Show him your salary. If he sees that you earn a lot of money regularly, he might feel more comfortable accepting it, Subaru suggested.

Felt started laughing at the dark-haired man's situation: *Hahahaha! Seriously, big brother is thinking about that, and it would also be good if old Rom could do it too.

Reinhard, like the screen, blushed at what Subaru wanted them to bring him. I think... it's good that Subaru is thinking about being responsible for that. If Emilia-sama happened to get pregnant, she would have to take time off from the royal selection.

Petra, who had asked why Subaru looked nervous, now had the answer and also blushed, while Frederica laughed at her reaction.

Emilia's face was also red: Subaru, you're a bad boy. *How can you think about that when we're like this! You'll get more punishment when we get there, young man. *

Rem: *Rem's hero is so responsible and kind. I hope Rem can experience that with Subaru-kun too. *

Al: *Well, as they say, he who thinks about bread is hungry. *

Wow. Good idea, replied Felt. Red, is there any risk in you returning to the city? If Heikel comes looking for you, for example? asked Subaru. Reinhard thought about it. I don't think so. Father would face considerable scrutiny from the Council of Sages if he took away your and Lady Emilia's only knight after the recent council meeting. That's good to know, but I was actually worried that he might do something to make your life difficult, Subaru replied.

Reinhard looked away. I doubt he can make my life any more difficult than he already has. Subaru waited a moment to see if Reinhard would continue and nodded. All right. Red, while you're in the city, don't forget to keep an eye on Felt. I don't want anyone thinking they can attack her.

Reinhard nodded as Felt crossed her arms and frowned in annoyance. Felt, make sure you keep an eye on Red. I don't want Heinkel or anyone else tricking him or trying to set him up, Subaru finished. Felt rolled her eyes at Subaru. Was that supposed to be a joke?

No, it wasn't a joke, you idiot! Subaru snorted. Felt, do you really think I'm trying to recruit you to my team out of charity? You're one of the most brilliant people I've ever met on this planet, and that's extremely valuable. Red is an invincible warrior, and you're a master of strategy and planning, or you will be once you finish developing your talents. You make a perfect team, and I want you to start thinking that way.

Felt looked surprised, then her expression turned thoughtful. But before you go, there's one thing I'd like your help with, Subaru said. Subaru, Rem, and Reinhard carried the sewing machine desk to Petra's house. Felt went ahead to explain the situation to Petra and her mother.

Wilhelm, although he seemed calm, was reminding himself to do what he wanted to do when they returned, starting with his son Heinkel.

Reinhard, although he felt the same way, did not actually hold a grudge about those years of his childhood and the present, and for him it would be wonderful to regain those bonds as in the old days.

Felt grumbled: *Ha, sure, big brother, as if I would just sit idly by. If they want trouble, they'll find it, and wow, you really think highly of me there.

Rem nodded: *Subaru-kun finally finished that "sewing machine." Rem wants to see how it works and make several outfits for Rem's hero.

Ram snorted: *Hmph, don't get too excited, little sister. The only outfit you should make him is a clown costume, because that's what Barusu is. *

Al: *But then you'd fall in love with bro, knowing your tastes. Could it be that you secretly like him? *

If looks could kill, Al would be spinning around nonstop.

When Rem and Reinhard carried the awkward desk through the narrow doorway, Subaru let go and gave up. He knew he wasn't helping much, but his ego demanded that he at least pretend he was. When Subaru entered the cabin after Rem and Reinhard left the machine behind, he noticed that Petra seemed less uncomfortable with him. He assumed that the strange machine was taking up most of her attention. "Hello, Mrs. Leyte," Subaru greeted her.

"My lord, what is that?" she asked. "It's an invention I recently created. I believe it will make life easier for seamstresses throughout the kingdom and, at the same time, increase their productivity," he explained. I was hoping you would be willing to test it for me. The seamstress looked uncertain. I'd love to help you, Lord Subaru, but I'm not sure what you want me to do. Petra, could you hand me that piece of fabric, please?" Subaru asked, pulling a chair up to the desk.

Petra handed him the scrap, and he used the sewing machines to quickly trace a line of fine stitches along a scrap as long as his arm. Then he cut the thread and handed the scrap back to Petra. Mrs. Leyte stared at the scrap in shock. It would have taken me half an hour to make that many stitches! And they're so small! I thought it might save you some work. Would you like to use it for a few weeks and give me your opinion? Subaru asked, standing up.

 Subaru had spent almost an hour teaching Petra and Mrs. Leyte how to use the machine. Petra, in particular, seemed very excited about her new toy. Reinhard, Subaru, Felt, and Rem walked back to the carriage. Well, I feel like I've accomplished something today, said Subaru. Do you really think you can make enough to change the sewing industry? asked Felt. I think it's the second most common job in the kingdom, after agriculture.

It's just a prototype, said Subaru with a shrug. We have to see if those two can use it. We also have to start thinking about the cost of reproducing it without Puck doing all the work with magic. Well, we should take you and Miss Rem back to the mansion before heading to the capitol, suggested Reinhard. Subaru squinted in the sun. Rem, would you mind walking home? Rem shook her head silently.

Tivey: *That looks... too uncomfortable to carry around, at least Subaru said it was a prototype, if he made it a little smaller*

Anastasia: *That would be ideal, plus look how surprised she is, half an hour saved in just an instant, if only Natsuki-kun would think a little more*

Petras looked excited: Look, Frederica nee-sama! It also looks easy to use.

Crush: *It will undoubtedly be an innovation that will be in high demand due to its effectiveness.

Felix: *Nya, I wonder if Subaru-kyun does that, Ferris could get a cuter dress nya*

Reinhard: *I would have to get someone to replicate all the gears and mechanisms to start reproducing it*

Ram, knowing her beloved little sister, narrowed her eyes as she watched her act: *Rem is... acting weird*

It's almost lunchtime, and the Capitol isn't far away, Subaru said. Why don't you go? We can walk back. Are you sure? Reinhard asked. I'm sure we can make it, Subaru said with a shrug. Take care of each other! he shouted as Reinhard and Felt climbed into the carriage. Got it! Felt shouted as the carriage drove away.

Subaru and Rem walked in silence. Subaru hoped Rem would speak, but it seemed that wasn't going to happen. So, Rem, I feel like we haven't really talked much lately, Subaru said, dragging out his words. Rem didn't respond. She kept walking with her head down. Subaru coughed. So, is this silence because I don't feel like talking to you, Subaru, or because I'm still convinced, you're a Witch Cultist, Subaru?

Rem stopped dead in her tracks and bowed her head. Subaru waited for a long moment. "I know you're not a witch cultist, Lord Subaru," she whispered. "Great! Oh, and you can skip the 'lord' part. I'm not really into that," Subaru replied. Rem stood still, breathing heavily. "Rem, are you okay?" Subaru asked uncertainly.

"I'm sorry!" she cried, tears streaming down her face. "I'm sorry I tried to kill you!" Rem stood there and began to cry, sobbing loudly and heartbreakingly as she buried her face in her hands. Subaru's jaw dropped. Shit. I didn't see that coming. Subaru approached Rem and gently wrapped his arms around her. Rem's head snapped up and her eyes went wild. Subaru gently stroked her back. After a moment, Rem's sobs calmed down a little and she rested her head on his shoulder.

It's okay, Rem. You made a mistake, but no one got hurt. Mistakes are as important as the consequences they cause. There's been no harm done. It's okay, he reassured her. I was sure you were a cultist, Rem whimpered. I was sure you were there to kill my sister and me. Sometimes it's hard to tell who people are at first glance. It's usually worth taking a second look, Subaru replied. I was so... so sure you were a monster, Rem murmured.

Mimi: *Mimi doesn't like walking in silence; Mimi likes people to talk when they walk*

Tivey: *Sister, this is not the time to say that*

Rem, although relieved that he no longer thought she was a witch cultist, found this... strange. Maybe I'm just being paranoid.

Emilia: *I'm glad Rem stopped thinking that way about Subaru, so we can continue as usual in the mansion! *

Otto: *I don't think... that's the case, Emilia-sama. This is strange. Even though Natsuki-san hasn't shown any cultist behavior, this is... something radical. *

Ram: *Barusu hasn't done anything to apologize like that. Everyone has been doing their own thing. *

Roswaal: Hmm, could it be... that this is due to his Authority?

Well, you saw me kill a bunch of people, plus a giant troll. Honestly, I felt like a monster after that, Subaru joked. Rem took a deep breath. Why? They were going to kill you all. They were the monsters.

Maybe, but there's always a chance for people to improve. Until the moment you kill them. Then there's no chance, Subaru replied. They were terrible people, or at least they were people willing to follow terrible, evil orders, but they were people, after all. Until they met me. Then they were nothing more than blood and rotten flesh.

Subaru felt a drop of rain and looked up, realizing that it was starting to rain. We should go back, Subaru muttered, patting Rem on the shoulder as they resumed their walk. Ram was waiting for them on the porch when Rem and Subaru returned. The rain had stopped, leaving only a light drizzle, and the sun was coming out. "Where were you, Lord Subaru?" Ram asked in a tense voice.

"That's not your question, Ram. You're asking where Rem was and why I'm only now finding out that Rem was with you? Rem was kind enough to help me, Reinhard, and Felt make a delivery to Arlam," Subaru replied. Rem moved closer to her sister and bowed her head.

And where are Sir Reinhard and Miss Felt? Ram asked. They returned to the city, Subaru said. Ram narrowed her eyes. Perhaps you should seek out Lady Emilia. I think she would enjoy your company. Oh, is that what this is about? Rem tried to kill me last week, and now you think I'm going to try to seduce her? Goodness! What is courtship like where you come from, Ram? I bet it's very exciting and unhealthy.

Good idea. I think I'll do that. It was nice talking to you, Rem, Subaru said, entering. Thank you... Rem whispered. Subaru didn't need to turn around to feel Ram's fiery glare on his back. Hello, Subaru greeted Emilia as Subaru entered the library. Emilia was sitting at a desk in front of a large pile of books. Puck was dozing on the desk, looking just like a normal cat.

Garfiel: *Of course the captain would say something like that! But still, it was amazing how he defeated all those idiots.

Otto: *Well, at least he still thinks that way. Not everyone is as kind as you, Natsuki-san. *

Rem smiled: *That's Rem's hero. Even though we're enemies, he always wants to find the best possible option. *

Mimi: *Oh no, the pink maid is there. Is there nothing else to do in that mansion? *

Al: *What a tsundere, really. Why don't you just accept the bro in your heart once and for all? *

Ram ignored the one-armed man's comment as she watched the scene: *Barusu... I hope you get along with my little sister, although knowing you, you'll ask for help as usual. *

Felix: *I think you should just let that go already, nya. If you bring it up every time, nya*

Crush: *Could it be... that Subaru isn't interested in anyone else? Will he only devote himself to Emilia? *

While Emilia wanted to be happy because she would have Subaru all to herself, she couldn't help but feel sad for Rem, since she (at least hers) had feelings for Subaru.

"Hi, Mili," said Subaru, approaching Emilia and gently running his hand through her hair. "Have you learned anything interesting?" Subaru glanced at the book Emilia was reading. He wasn't an expert reader yet, but it seemed to describe some kind of racial war between humans and demi-humans. "I'm learning a lot, but I feel like I still don't understand much," Emilia complained. I know exactly how you feel, Subaru sympathized, sitting on the arm of her chair.

What have you been doing today? Emilia asked. I finished the sewing machine, and then Reinhard, Felt, Rem, and I took it to Petra's house for her to try out. Petra was very excited, Subaru smiled. I bet she was, Emilia replied. Where are Felt and Reinhard? Oh, they went back to the capitol to pick up some things after we dropped off the machine, Subaru replied. Rem and I walked back.

I guess he didn't try to kill you, Emilia asked, turning a page of her book with exaggerated indifference. Could you at least pretend to be concerned? Subaru snorted. Emilia laughed. No, he didn't try to kill me, Subaru continued. In fact, he cried and apologized. That's great! I'm glad you worked things out, Emilia said with a smile.

Me too. Although, since Ram saw me walking back to the mansion with Rem, I think she's come to the mistaken conclusion that I'm trying to seduce her sister. Still, it's good to put that little misunderstanding between Rem and me behind us. Assuming the new misunderstanding with Ram doesn't kill me, Subaru replied.

You know, Subaru, Puck said, waking up and stretching. Most people wouldn't consider an assassination attempt a misunderstanding. I don't know, Puck, Subaru mused. I've been here for about eight days and I've already had at least four attempts on my life. Honestly, I think I'm becoming a little indifferent to the whole thing. At least? Puck asked.

Subaru shrugged. I'm not sure how many times you've contemplated my death. Please don't tell me. Besides, I foresee the number of attempts on my life increasing dramatically now that Ram believes I'm after her little sister. Puck laughed, but Emilia glared at them both in annoyance.

Frederica: *Wow Emilia-sama, you feel pretty secure with Subaru-sama, don't you? Fufufu, you didn't even flinch*

Ram: *Hmph, if that were the case, Barusu would have more skeletons in his closet, since you seduced my dear little sister and corrupted her*

Roswaal: *Ram~ you should try to be more~ kind to your future son-in-law~ or who knows, maybe husband fufufu*

Ricardo: *Heh, and that's not saying much, knowing her spirit, there are probably more*

Tivey: *How many more times will they talk about Rem's assassination attempt on Subaru*?

Emilia: *They're a couple of fools, but... with Puck I have to see, but with Subaru, with Subaru I want to be with him forever*

Hello, Puck said Subaru. I'm glad you're here. I needed to ask your advice about something. Yes, Subaru. You should go find Rem and leave my daughter alone, said Puck, floating in the air with a yawn. Emilia frowned and tapped Puck's forehead with her pinky finger. Ouch, said Puck unconvincingly.

Don't take that as permission! said Emilia, pointing sternly at Subaru. Yes, Mili, said Subaru, trying not to laugh. Actually, Puck, I wanted to talk to you about Beatrice. What do you know about her job? Betty's contract? Well, not much, I guess. I don't remember much about the old days. Betty remembers them better than I do, replied Puck. Why do you ask?

Subaru thought for a moment about his answer. Because she's lonely. She's miserable and can't change her life, so I want to find a way to help her. Betty's sad? asked Puck in surprise. When did that happen? She always seems so happy. Sure, when you're around, said Subaru with a chuckle. Then he became serious. Do you know anything about that person? What person? asked Puck. Subaru grimaced. I don't know. That person! The one Beatrice has been waiting for. I'm sorry, Subaru. I don't know. What are you trying to do? asked Puck.

Whoever that person is, Beatrice has been waiting for them for four hundred years, and that makes me incredibly angry. I want to find them, punish them for neglecting that poor girl for so long, and then drag them back to Beako, tied up with a rope, Subaru said firmly.

It was difficult to read a cat's facial expressions, but Subaru thought Puck might actually look impressed. That's why I love him, Puck said with an affectionate smile. Subaru stared at Emilia. What? Emilia asked.

Rem nodded: *Although I would like to, I know that Rem's love for the hero is too much, so... maybe having two wives will change his mind, hehe*

Al and Ricardo exchanged glances, having one of their telepathic conversations reaching a single conclusion.

Al and Ricardo shouting in unison: *The harem route Hahahaha/Bwahahahah*

Beatrice: "Actually, Bubby doesn't know anything about that, I guess, since Mother told only Betty."

Petra: "But at least Subaru-sama is trying to help you, Betty."

Roswaal shuddered at the thought of how he would treat his Sensei if he found her: "Then I'll have to defend her from you, Subaru-kun."

Ram clicked her tongue: *Tsk, better let the witch take her away, that way the problems will be solved*

Crush: *Wow, Emilia, you can really be quite bold when you want to, can't you? Expressing yourself like that to Subaru*

Meanwhile, Emilia felt jealous of herself: *Why can she say that to Subaru but I can't? Am I really an idiot? *

Subaru smiled. Did you just say you love me? Emilia blushed. No! You did, whispered Subaru, wrapping his arms around Emilia. No! said Emilia, burying her face in her hands. You said you loved me! exclaimed Subaru, resting his cheek against the top of her head.

I didn't! Emilia said, her voice muffled behind her hands. I didn't hear anything, Puck complained. We have to celebrate, Subaru proclaimed as Emilia shook her head. It's past lunchtime. How about a picnic? A... what? Emilia asked, uncovering her face. A picnic, you know, where you take some food, go somewhere, and eat it together. "Sounds interesting," said Emilia in a tone that made it clear she didn't understand why that would be interesting.

Rem had kindly prepared a basket of food and wine for them. Puck had left to talk to Beatrice and dispel the concerns Subaru had raised about his sister. Subaru and Emilia were sitting under the shade of a tree in a flowery meadow outside the mansion.

"This is delicious," Emilia said as she nibbled on a sandwich. "Tell me, Mili, what did you do in the forest?" Subaru asked. "I spent most of my time tending to the frozen bodies," Emilia replied. Subaru paused. "How horrible," he said. "What did you do for fun?" Emilia thought for a moment. "I spent a few years mapping the forest," she said. Subaru rolled his eyes. Damn it, Emilia, we have to teach you some games.

Emilia tilted her head. What did you do in your country? Subaru blushed. Um... Nothing very interesting, really. Emilia crossed her arms. Subaru! That's not fair! I told you what I did! Subaru grimaced. Well, I spent most of my time in my room. Ah. They wouldn't let you out? Emilia asked sympathetically. No, I was... actually, I was supposed to quit, I just didn't, Subaru sighed. I don't understand, Emilia said. Should we just not talk about it?

Ram: *Hmph, just look at how he gets all worked up over what Emilia-sama said to him, wagging his tail like a dog for his master*

Mimi: *But you do it too, pink maid, your face changes when that clown says something positive to you*

Anastasia trying to prevent a disaster: *Ahem, putting that aside, Natsuki-kun was really happy to hear it directly from her, and it's understandable*

Ricardo: *Well, Ana-bo, you're always praising your girl, but it's a nice feeling when the girl praises the guy*

Rem with a notebook: *Ideas for a date with Rem's hero, a picnic alone, (maybe something else) and then in the evening go to the mansion and sleep together*

Petra: *I feel weird about Rem, even though she hasn't shown any romantic feelings here, I even prepare everything for Subaru-sama and Emilia-sama's date*

Frederica: *At least Puck isn't with them; they can be more relaxed*

Emilia pouted: *Silly Subaru, that was actually really fun, exploring the forest like an adventure!

Beatrice: *I guess this moment has actually arrived. Now it's Betty's Subaru's turn to open up to the half-elf. *

Emilia reached out and took his hand. Subaru, you can tell me anything you want. Actually, it's not worth going into. I can see it's bothering you. Let me help you, Emilia urged. Look, Mili, I don't want to go into details. Let's change the subject, okay? This is none of your business. Emilia looked surprised and then offended. Why not? It's... really complicated! Subaru said helplessly. Then explain it to me!

Mili Subaru covered his eyes. I... Did you do something wrong? She asked softly. No, I didn't do anything wrong Subaru shook his head. Then why won't you tell me? Emilia asked, raising her voice. Don't you trust me? Of course I do! Subaru said, genuinely offended by the accusation. Do you think I'm too stupid to understand? No!

Then why won't you tell me? I told you everything I did in the forest! Emilia shouted. It's different! Subaru insisted. Emilia stood up, her eyes filled with unshed tears. This morning, I admitted that I loved you, she said in a cold voice. I knew saying that was a bad idea. I knew you could never feel the same way about me as I felt about you. Emilia started to walk away.

Subaru stared at her in shock and lunged from his seat. He managed to grab her wrist. Let go of me, Subaru, Emilia said without turning around. "Emilia, this isn't fair! You know I love you!" Subaru shouted, standing up.

Emilia turned around, her eyes burning. "What do you think?! Yesterday I told you the most personal thing in my life! Now not only do you not tell me anything about your past life, but you don't even tell me why! Do you love me?!" You don't even trust me! She freed her arm from Subaru and stomped away. Subaru hesitated for a moment, then ran after her. Emilia! he shouted. Stay away from me, Subaru, she saw the tears on his face, but her voice was like ice as she continued to walk away.

Wilhelm: *Subaru-dono, even if the past hurts, you must keep moving forward and improving. Don't make the mistakes of this old man. *

Al: *Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift. That's why it's called the present. *

Everyone looked strangely at the one-armed knight of the Sun Princess.

*What? * Al asked.

Ricardo: *Friend, what's gotten into you? Now you're being philosophical. *

(Al wants to be like Barbie... You can be whatever you want to be xd)

Beatrice: *Actually, Betty knows what the tin head said, I guess. In the words of Betty's Subaru, it's from a movie, but a good one, not the crap that's out there nowadays. *

Otto: *Okay? Leaving that aside for a moment, could it be that now it will be Emilia-sama who makes the declaration? *

Ram: *Tsk, Barusu, that's supposed to be my little sister's job. *

Anastasia: *Then Natsuki-kun will be able to let off steam and acknowledge what he has done. *

Crush: *Even if he hasn't had any self-destructive moments, if he can get over that, it would be the best thing. *

He took a deep breath. I thought you had questions. Emilia stopped walking. Are you ready to answer them? Subaru breathed heavily for a long time. You won't like the answers. Emilia finally turned to look at him. She crossed her arms. Why don't you let me decide? Subaru swallowed hard. What if... you don't like me after I tell you? I don't want to talk about this. Emilia rolled her eyes and stamped her foot. Subaru! How selfish you are! she shouted.

Me?! I haven't done anything since I got here except try to help you! he shouted. Emilia's face remained motionless. Are you just trying to help me, or do you love me? I love you, Subaru said seriously. She nodded. I love you too, she said, almost in amazement. She closed her eyes and spoke in a calm voice. Subaru, did you ever wonder how scary it was for me yesterday to tell you about what happened in the Ellior Forest? Subaru frowned. I know it was hard for you to talk about it, but why were you afraid?

Emilia shook her head and sighed. Because of the very real possibility that you would be angry with me. Because you might have disliked me or even hated me. There was a chance you would never look at me the same way again, Subaru. That's why I was so scared!

Subaru shook his head. Emilia, you know I would never do that. I'm always on your side. I know you're not perfect or an angel. You make mistakes, and sometimes, no matter what problem you try to solve, you'll fall short. But I will always believe that, whatever the outcome, you did the best you could. You can talk to me about anything. I will never turn against you.

Emilia closed her eyes and clenched her teeth. Subaru, you're so stupid! Subaru raised his hands. What am I doing wrong, Mili? Talk to me! Give me a hint! You don't trust me! she accused him. Of course I do!

Felix: *Subaru-kyun isn't helping at all Nyajaja*

Ram: *He's an idiot, that's what Barusu is*

Julius: *Subaru, you really need to be taught some gentlemanly manners. Do you realize you're contradicting yourself? *

Felt: *Really... big brother can be such an idiot sometimes*

Reinhard: *Subaru just wants to help others, but... he won't let anyone help him*

Emilia squeezed the black-haired boy's hand: *Really... you're such a big dummy, Subaru, but soon we'll prove that you can trust us*

Rem: *Although I agree with you, Emilia-sama, Rem's hero will need time to understand that he no longer needs to hide anything. *

Wilhelm: *I highly doubt that, Subaru-dono. You two are as in love as Theresia and I were. You will easily overcome all those doubts. *

No, you won't! she shouted, kicking the floor. You just gave me a whole speech about how much I should trust you! You told me I should trust you because you love me and you'll never betray me. You told me you want me to tell you anything, no matter how bad it is! So why don't you trust me enough to tell me something bad? You demand that I trust you unreservedly, but you don't trust me that way! It's not fair! Subaru blinked.

You say you love me! How am I supposed to believe that? Emilia asked through her tears. How can you love someone you don't trust? What does the word love mean to you if you don't believe that trust is essential? What do I mean to you? Subaru fell silent.

He swallowed hard as he felt tears running down his face. He took a step closer. Emilia, he whispered. She was struggling to breathe between sobs. Don't touch me, she murmured weakly as Subaru drew her into his arms. She was stiff in his arms, but then she relaxed, and they cried and sobbed together. They stayed like that for a few minutes, and then both fell silent.

Emilia whispered, "Subaru. I'm sorry." "I don't want your apology," Emilia whispered, her voice muffled against his chest. "Emilia, I didn't want you to know that back home... I was the biggest loser on the planet," Subaru murmured. Emilia was quiet for a moment. "What do you mean?"

"I was a loser. No one expected anything from me. I hardly ever left my room for years because no one cared if I did. I didn't leave my room because I was afraid of the outside world. I stopped going to school. I never tried to find a job. I gave up on the world, and then the world gave up on me. Even my parents weren't sure if I... He paused. I had no friends. I never did anything that mattered. Except for my parents, no one will notice that I'm gone. I was pathetic. I was a useless loser who should never have been born. That's what I didn't want to tell you. I didn't want you to see me like that, Subaru sighed.

Al to the one who had ordered popcorn and a soda: *Damn, this is much better than "case closed" or "the rose of Guadalupe." This is material for a novel. *

Crush: *Maybe you used to be like that, Subaru, but (as she placed one of her hands on his heart) now you're someone incredible, you've matured and... now you're someone to admire. *

Rem, who had clasped her hands together: *Subaru-kun, as your Rem told you before, I like everything about you, you're everyone's hero, but especially you're Rem's hero. *

Julius nodded in agreement with the dark-haired boy's actions.

Petra wanted something like that to happen to her; in her eyes, it was extremely romantic.

Anastasia had to admit that she felt like she was reading a novel. Maybe she would ask Natsuki-kun to remember some from her world.

Emilia: *Subaru... you shouldn't talk about yourself like that, you're not a loser, you've triumphed over assassins, Mabestias, you've even defeated death itself, you're someone extremely incredible*

Felt rolled her eyes: *Really? You better get a room and do that without anyone seeing you*

Reinhard: *But... Felt-sama, they're practically alone. We're the ones watching them. *

(In a certain IF world, in a room in the royal castle of Lugunica, a couple was having an intimate moment, while in the shadows a certain saint of the sword watched the ritual. The divine protection of silence was activated, so the sneeze that came afterwards was completely neutralized.)

Emilia took several deep breaths against his chest. I don't know that Subaru. I've never seen him, she murmured. He's certainly not my Subaru. My Subaru is brave, intelligent, and hardworking. He's not a loser at all. He rescued me time and time again. He risked his life to save mine. He rescued an entire town... Using invincibility magic, Subaru interrupted with disdain.

Thinking he was going to die! Emilia continued firmly. I held him in my arms that night. I know how scared he was. How small and helpless he must have felt. But he did it anyway. He risked his life to save theirs. That's what the whole town of Arlam sees when they look at my Subaru. And that's what I see too. Subaru gave a little start.

Emilia raised her head and looked at Subaru fiercely. I don't know what your world was like. I don't fully understand the situation you described. But I believe with all my heart that you did the best you could at that moment, she emphasized. You are not the man you described to me, and I will never see you as less than the man I see now.

I'm on your side, Subaru, always, Emilia said defiantly. I know you're not perfect or an angel. You make mistakes, and sometimes, no matter what problem you try to solve, you'll fall short. But I will always believe that, whatever the outcome, you did the best you could. You can talk to me about anything. I will never abandon you.

Subaru's eyes filled with tears as he looked at Emilia. I know, Subaru said in a broken voice. I believe that. Because I trust you, because I understand that if I want you to trust me, I need to show you that I trust you just as much. And I always want you to trust me.

Emilia's eyes were still teary as she nodded. Good. So at least we got something out of this, she said in a choked but energetic voice, hugging him tightly. They both started crying again. Neither of them noticed that, in the nearby forest, a little girl dressed in pink with drill-shaped braids was watching them intently.

Al: *Ha, he gave it right back to bro, told him exactly what he said before, even I felt hurt*

Emilia: *That other me is right, that's not the Subaru we know, he's kind, always cares about others, makes us laugh with his stuff, and... makes me feel a warmth that I like*

Garfiel: *Look, Brotto, the princess fell at the captain's feet! My incredible self wants to be just like the captain. *

Otto: *Hey, Garf? I think you should learn to sense the danger around you first. *

Mimi had fire in her eyes: *No one will take Mimi's Garf away from her. Garf will be Mimi's and Mimi's alone. *

Frederica smiled at the merchant: *Thank you, Otto-sama, I'm counting on you and Garf (she winks at him, making Otto blush).

Tivey: *Well, didn't they say that in the capital he's known as "Subaru the Invincible”? *

Felt: *Rein! Let's go visit my older brother and you can train him. I want him to master every weapon there is.

Petra: *Subaru-sama has been training with a whip. You should focus on mastering and improving that.

Beatrice: *Actually, all he needs is an explorer's outfit and a hat, and he'll be Indiana Jones, I guess.

Julius: *What are you doing there, Beatrice-sama?

The next morning, Subaru woke up and left his room to have breakfast. As soon as he stepped out into the hallway, he found Beatrice standing there with her arms crossed, waiting for him. It's about time you woke up, I guess. You kept Betty waiting, she said. I did? Sorry. What were you waiting for me for? Subaru asked.

"Betty has made a very important decision, in fact. A decision that involves you," said Beatrice, entering the room next to Subaru's. Subaru followed her inside, noticing that Beatrice had moved her bookcase next to Subaru's room.

Many in the theater seemed confused by the scene. Beatrice seeking someone out of her own free will?

Beatrice lowered her gaze, knowing what she was about to ask him to do: *I guess... Betty is also a fool, in fact, (sniff) asking that of Betty's Subaru*

Emilia tilted her head: *Like, I don't get it? What decision did Betty make, and... Why have I been waiting for Subaru? *

Roswaal narrowed his eyes: *Hmm~ I see, Beatrice~ you've made up your mind~ and now you want me to put an end to it~*

Reinhard: *Beatrice-sama is going to ask Subaru to... kill her*

Rem: *Subaru-kun, he'll know how to help Beatrice-sama. They made a temporary contract before, right? Maybe they'll do it here too*

Felt looked confused: *Ehh? When did that happen? Don't judge me for forgetting*

Julius: *It was during the second arc, in the fourth and final loop of it, when Beatrice-sama offered him a temporary contract to protect her*

Ram: *Barusu... heh, as always, problems come to you. I'm not surprised. *

Well, what was your decision? Subaru asked. Beatrice looked at Subaru with her arms crossed and firm determination. Betty wants Subaru to be the one to kill her, in fact.

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Unknown secondary world number 20 09 03 09 (Mimagau) twelve years before the battle of the Pleiades Watchtower, against the sage and the warlock of envy.

Five years have passed since the end of the royal selection, and a new era has dawned on the dragon kingdom.

In the bustling central commercial square of the capital, the stalls were selling their wares as on any other day, and the products were of the highest quality thanks to the kingdom's good relations with other kingdoms. Kararagi was now under the supervision of Alexei Hoshin, and Vollachia, where the current Empress Nova Vollachia had strengthened ties with the kingdom after the "great disaster." In addition, Gusteko participated through its new ruler, a green-haired half-elf named "Aster," and the current king of Lugunica, the silver-haired, amethyst-eyed half-elf Emilio of the Ellior Forest, who currently has no woman by his side.

In the square, a woman can be seen holding the hand of a boy of about eight years of age. Both were wearing cloaks that looked normal but were actually concealing their identities.

Passing through the noisy square, their steps, as if they had walked that path a thousand times before, would take them to the new and current Astrea mansion, which was undoubtedly much larger than a normal mansion.

The woman, who had been silent, looked at the boy and said (? *Well, you know what you have to do, right? You have to listen to your Aunt Adel and train with Reina-chan with the sword*).

The boy nodded, returning her gaze with a smile (? *Yes, I'll pay attention to the class and everything Aunt Adel tells me! Plus, Reina will be there. It'll be fun! *)

Approaching the large doors of the mansion, there were two figures waiting. The first was a man with blond hair, crimson eyes, and a protruding tooth, whom the boy called his uncle "Flint." He was dressed in a sleeveless shirt, a brown vest, a red scarf, and black pants.

And next to him was a woman with long, bright red hair and eyes as blue as the sky itself. She wore a white dress with red details. She was Adelheid Van Astrea, the former Saint of the Sword.

Now the two figures removed their robes and revealed their faces. The woman had hair as black as night tied back in a ponytail and terrifying but kind eyes. She wore a tracksuit and overalls, her usual attire. while the boy wore a blue semi-sporty shirt with orange details and black shorts. His eyes were the same as his mother's, except they were golden, and his white hair was combed back, enhancing his features.

The woman known as Subaru Natsuki, responsible for bringing down the great white whale, assassinating the archbishop of sloth, along with her former great spirit contractor Victor, exiling the great rabbit, and then leading the defenses of Priestella alongside former royal candidate Emilio, and the former Saint of the Sword, defeated the Archbishop of Greed, Regina Corneas, her aid in the Vollachio Empire, and her endless achievements for the kingdom.

(Subaru: (waving his hand in greeting) *Flint, Adel! How are you? Hey, how long have you been standing there waiting? *

(Flint crossing his arms: *Big sister, why can't you guys come faster? I'm about to grow roots here*)

(Adelheid: *Flint dear, can't you see that Subaru and young master Nexia just arrived? What kind of manners are those? *)

The boy who was standing next to Subaru ran over to hug his aunt: (*Aunt Adelheid! Uncle Flint! I'm so happy to see you again! *)

(*Nexi!!!*) A third voice was heard inside the mansion, and a girl appeared, with long red hair and blue eyes like her mother, as well as a protruding tooth like her father. She was Reina Van Astrea, the new Sword Saint.

The excited girl ran at full speed, kicking up smoke and knocking over a few pictures in the hallways. When she found her destination, she opened her arms and rushed to hug the boy, causing them both to fall to the floor.

(Nexia: *Ugkh Reina, I'm also happy to see you, but could you greet me with a little less enthusiasm? *)

(Reina: *No way! Come on, Nexi, I want to show you what my mother and father taught me!

And just as the girl had appeared, she disappeared, taking the newly arrived boy with her.

(Subaru wiping away a fake tear: *Haa, they grow up so fast, Adel. How about our families get together? *)

(Adelheid: Subaru, how about you come in first and then we can talk for hours about our children's future? *)

(Flint: *That's right, big sister! Besides, isn't it too early to think about them getting engaged at such a young age? *)

(Subaru making an "X" with his arms and shaking his head: *That's not it, Flint, it's just that I'm team "childhood friends." Besides, if Nexi introduces me to another girl and not Reina as his girlfriend, I'll disinherit him right there and then, but Adel is right, let's go in.*)

Once they were seated in the mansion's living room, Adelheid was the first to speak.

(Adelheid: *So Subaru, what do you want to talk about first? *)

(Subaru rested his hand on his chin as he thought: *First, please tell me what your new divine protection told you about Nexi's name*)

Although Adelheid no longer possessed her divine protection from the sword saint, Od Laguna rewarded her with something else, a divine protection that served as a substitute for all her divine protections. In other words, even though she no longer had the main one, she was still considered one of the strongest.

(Author's notes) (I don't remember which fic I saw it in, but it's about Reinhard having a twin sister who can ask Od for any divine protection. It's more or less the same in this case. Instead of the divine protection of the sword saint, she now has the divine protection of the "Queen of the Sword." Let's look at it this way: if the divine protection of the Sword Saint is level five (the maximum level), this new divine protection is level 3 or 3.5, but since she has experience as the Sword Saint, we could say that to the outside eye, her power remains the same).

(Adelheid with a serious expression: *From what you told us, Subaru, you heard from Nexi that he saw something that seemed to awaken something within him, and with the help of my current divine protection of recognition, there is something in Nexi's name*)

(Flint: *Adel has... been investigating this nonstop. We're worried that something happened to Nexi, but big sister, why don't you ask that bastard directly? *)

(Subaru sighed: *Do you think I haven't done that, Flint? He just changes the subject and doesn't tell me anything, and I know he's hiding something. My crazy eye is never wrong, but anyway, what did you find? *)

(Adelheid: *When I used my divine protection on him, I saw his name written as "Pleonexia V. Natsuki." I honestly don't know what that means, I'm sorry*)

(Subaru frowned at what was said and written: *A "V"? OK, I give up. What the hell does that mean! *)

(Flint: *Doesn't it make you think of anything, big sister? Maybe something from your world or something similar*)

(Subaru narrowed her eyes as she put her mind to work at full capacity: *Something related to my world? It could make sense, but it's just a V. Okay, calm down, Subaru. How could that V help me? If it were something related to greed, then it would be logical to think of "Mammon," but... following the same pattern, then*)

Then she whispered something barely audible (*Vul... cano*)

(Adelheid and Flint: *Big sister / Subaru?

(Subaru: *Originally, Vulcan is... a mythological god from where I come from, the god of fire, whether to create or destroy, but nevertheless, there is a story that there is also a "Vulcan" who was known as an extremely greedy demon. Perhaps... that's what it means, and it's probably sealed by him*)

(Flint frowned as he put his feet up on the table: *So... is it called Pleonexia Vulcano Natsuki? Or is it "Vulcan"? Honestly, I don't know what I'm saying anymore*)

(Adelheid: *Considering that... from what you said in that story, he's a pretty greedy demon, it's probably some kind of experiment on his part* as she clenched her fists at the thought of him doing something like that to a child and his own son).

The doors swung open, the children had returned after an hour of training together to improve either their magic (on Reina's part) or their sword and hand-to-hand combat skills (on Nexia's part).

(Reina excitedly: Mom, Dad! Listen to this, Nexi did something great, so much so that he's almost at my level. Isn't that great? *)

(Nexia: It's not that big of a deal, really. I just applied what Reina taught me to my style and was able to master it, but as always, Reina won the fights*)

Then Subaru sees how the little girl is dressed now.

(Subaru with an amused smile: *Fufufu, what do my ears hear? Are they dressed alike? How wonderful is young love*)

(Nexia: *Mom, please don't start with your drama. Besides, I don't just read at the Watchtower. Uncle Mine helps me with hand-to-hand combat*)

(Subaru, with an extremely exaggerated gesture, clutches the left side of his chest: *Haa, my poor heart can't take so much cold from my son*)

(Reina snaps her fingers: *Ohh, so that's why you've improved so much since last time. One of Nexi's uncle’s trains with him*)

(Flint: *I still think the older sister has nerves of steel, living with the same wizards from four hundred years ago. At least they seem to be helping Nexia*)

(Subaru: *Heh, yes, although I told Minervus not to do it seriously until Nexi is at least fifteen, even though his authority can't inflict harm, he should still control himself*)

And so, the Astrea family and the Natsuki family stayed talking until sunset, enjoying their quiet life, but fate has something in store for everyone in a few years.

(Information about this possible world)

1: Emilio (Emilia) has been manipulated by his adoptive mother "Puck," and "Epimetheus" has also been pulling the strings from the shadows.

2: Subaru is currently living in the Pleiades Watchtower, and since she is officially "missing," the only ones who know where to find her are Adelheid (Reinhard) and Flint (Felt).

3: In a previous meeting, Subaru inadvertently admitted that Erebus (Satella) roams around his house in the Watchtower like a dog, leading to a two-hour conversation about his split personality.

4: I plan to create an event in which Nexia (aged around 16 or 17) loses control and the "demon of greed" emerges in Lugunica.

5: Ophion helps Nexia with the theoretical side of magic, as well as the practical side, and since he is also a "Natsuki," he works twice as hard, achieving more than promising results for Ophion.

6: Subaru sold (gave away) the repair of Alexei's (Anastasia's) door, which is why he is still alive, in addition to fixing his own.

7: At first, no one noticed Subaru's absence (except Reu) (Rem) It was about a month later when they went crazy because he left without saying anything at all.

8: Roswaal (who in this case is a woman), having fulfilled her goal of reviving her Sensei, no longer cared about the royal selection or anything else, she is only interested in Ophion.

9: Some characters, such as the royal candidates, will change gender with their knights: Klaus (or Kurt) Karsten, Percival Barielle, Alexei Hoshin, Flint, and Emilio, as well as Felicia Argyle, Julia Jukuulius, Al, Adelheid Van Astrea, and Subaru Natsuki.

10: The Warlocks would all be alive again: Ophion, Erebus, Minervus (or Mars), Daphnis, Eros, Sekhem, Typhon, Epimetheus, as well as Shaula, who will now be called "Antares."

Similarly, the names could change, and well, with nothing more to add, have a good day/afternoon/evening.

(P.S.) I think the chronology went on sabbatical, dear... xd

(P.S. #2) Vielma here to finish up. Would you like the cast to know the true identity of "Vielma"?