-Chapter 17-

Fear and Wraith Makes the Greatest of Allies

OVA - 1

The bottle of brandy stung my throat as I sat down on the cold steps of the Margrave estate. My back pressed against it as I sat the bottle next to me on the cold stone steps. My body being full of beautiful warmth as I softly closed my eyes.

Last night exhausted me to such an extreme…

Roswell, after that prick came back just a couple of hours ago was shocked.

"Whhy does this alwaysss happennn!" His strange accent mused inside of my head. An unintentional snicker rising from me. Seeing that clown prick shocked made it all worth it.

A half dazed drunken laugh made me cough from the cold, but I kept on laughing. What even am I…?

"A god…"

The sudden words made me laugh even harder! Though what even is this...the ability to keep on coming back and fixing my mistakes, even being able to prevent the death of my friends and even myself.

Though such a gift…

My fingers curled into a fist. Pain...I could still remember it so vividly. Elsa when she killed me, her strange but beautiful knives cutting into my hand, severing it from wrist.

I gazed down at my right hand, it softly twitching as I rested my left hand over it. Rem after she killed me, my ribcage flying out from me as my left eye was blinded. The sudden memories causing me to grimace as I took another long gulp from the drink.

Why…

For such a power to exist...why was it given to me? Something must of have happened and I do not like it. My fingers coursed through my hair as my thoughts went into overdrive. Ever since I came into this world...it has been so strange.

Well calling it strange was the understatement of the year...this place was nearly exactly like the fantasy worlds that came from the story's mom used to read to me before bedtime.

Though I get these things at time...words which I do not know, and people that know me, but I have never met them. Authorities, there are seven of them...and I know I must reclaim them all.

I do not know why, but…

A sudden sound perked my ears. I glanced behind me as I saw the door slightly opened. "Rem... I do not like it when you creep up and watch me. If you want to join me for a drink that is all fine and dandy, but please do…"

"Dismas." The sudden voice caught me off. I saw the streaks of silver hair as I watched the girl poke from the door.

"Lia…" I called out to her.

The half-elf girl emerged from the door as she began walking to my side. Her strange eyes traced my form as she stood over me. She looked beautiful...so otherworldly beautiful that I could not describe it with words, it was like watching an alien, or even an angel.

"C... can we talk now, Dismas?" She stuttered, her hands rubbing her other hand as she quickly took a seat next to me. "We agreed a while ago, but we never had the chance."

"Oh, yeah about that…" I did promise Emilia that I was going to talk to her. What the hell, like I have anything else better to do tonight. "Sure…"

"You know you can rely on me right…" She spoke, her fingers lightly tracing her dress as she spoke. "We are friends...and I want you to know that if anything happens, or if you need my help or just anything that I will have your back."

She looked up at me with those big amethyst eyes of hers.

I scratched my head as I handed her the bottle of alcohol. It seemed wrong not to share, well I did pick it from Roswell's stash, so I guess it did not matter. "I know...don't worry…"

She took the bottle with both hands as she began to softly drink from it. A distinct red tint forming over her face. "It's really...strong."

"Yeah...I didn't think you guys also had whiskey here. My Pa was a big fan of it too...putting hair on your chest!" I mock voiced my old man, causing Emilia to smile a little. It helped break the silence on this cold night.

She looked back at the bottle and rested it next to my side. "How is your gate…"

A chuckle came from me. "I can hardly do anything with it anymore, hell!" I grabbed the alcohol and shoved more of the spicy liquid down my throat. "Before I could of have at least contributed...now I am just useless as shit."

"No, you are not…" Emilia tried to reassure me, but her compliment fell on deaf ears.

I was not stupid…a fool but not stupid. Now with the wrecked gate, I would not be able to contend or even have a place by there side.

"Yes, I am Emilia, and nothing will change that…"

The last part of my sentence ended the conversation drastically, maybe it was the alcohol making me like this, but talking to Emilia felt strange now…

"Dismas...did you want to stay here?" She questioned.

"Huh...well that changed quickly." I said as I turned back towards her.

She did not look up at me as she spoke. "You didn't answer the question…"

"Oh…" I simply responded. The word coming out unemotionally. I strained to say the word yes, but there was something holding me back. Sure, I enjoyed my time here with the others but there have been things here that will haunt me for the rest of my days.

Emilia...me and her were alright. Calling it your basic friendship sounded more appropriate. I was closer to the other people in the mansion. Emilia was just always studying. Hell, I was closer to Frederica and she had been here for only a couple of days.

I am not going to lie...I do have my doubts about Emilia. Leaders, they have this presence to them that allows them to inspire others, they can lead and fight.

If Emilia is supposed to be one of the strongest than why is she the one that needs to always be saved. How many times did I have to sacrifice myself for that girl to live, and there are other reasons.

It was me that created that plan in the destroyed bar against Elsa. It was me that defeated her. To trap her in a burning building and if I were not there or was even a minute late...then Emilia would of have died!

Is that what I must be worried about? That every time Emilia is out of my sight that like a child, I must stick by her and hold her hand! To make sure that she comes out okay or something!

Emilia never mentioned anything about what happened with Rem, it was Roswell doing all the talking during that whole exchange. Hell, the only time she did anything was when the tensions began to rise.

Sure, the conversation was getting heated but I doubt it would of have become a physical confrontation but there are issues that come from such a thing. She never interjected; she never offered her view on the matter...even after this mabeast situation nothing changed!

There was no note to hire more mercenaries, no ideas to reinforce the defenses of the estate or to do anything about the villagers that knows that there is a HALF-ELF GIRL, the spitting image of Satella that the witch cult is so desperately after.

Back in the army we had regulations, maneuvers...supplies! With the Emilia camp we are shooting in the dark. The memories resurfaced as I clutched my head, I have not gotten over dad.

That monster made everything ten times worse...and now with the shitshow I have been going through ever since I appeared in this new world, I am afraid of falling asleep now. What am I going to see or be reminded of when I close my eyes?

That is why I am up now!

The paranoia that I feel is getting worse by the day...like I can hardly enter those hallways without sweating and jumping from the tiniest of sounds because I am worried of some monster or assassin getting the jump on me.

Does not help that I feel that people are lying...no, that is not what is happening. Withholding information is the right choice of words for it...but still that made me feel uneasy. Paranoia and fear, it swarms and consumes the mind.

What is it going to be after I fall asleep and dreaming? Rem punching me so hard that my left eye pops free from the socket. The assassin cutting through me like paper...or maybe even the memories of my past!

All just for some stupid election...for some stupid rock!

It is All Her Fault!

My lip went into my mouth as I bit into it. My fingers wrapping around the bottle as the thought occurred to me, the bottle I squeezed so powerfully that I thought it was going to break.

My vison went into Emilia's eyes. The determination and resolve forming. I did not suffer for a rock, it was to make Emilia queen...yeah, that is the goal!

I will not stop...I will fight and move forward; I will keep moving forward. I do not care if the enemies we face are gods, or even Satella herself…

I did not die for nothing. This suffering and pain that I had to endure; it was all for something. No matter what happens...I promise...that I will make Emilia queen.

"No, Emilia." I brought up my hand. "I will follow you...and your enemies will be mine. Just tell me what to do…"

She looked shocked, but she still hesitantly grabbed my hand. When we head to the capitol I will shop around, buy some supplies, and spread the word around that the Emilia camp needs soldiers or outlaws ready to fight.

We Must Raise an Army...

Emilia quickly left after that. I stayed up for the rest of the night...just staring into the woods as I tried to keep my head clear and to quell the spasms of my hands as a particular memory would begin to come up.

I do not know how but around the crack of the morning that was the time I entered the kitchen. I was hungry for anything, as I rummaged through the cabinets trying to find any loaves of bread or cheese, I heard the door softly open behind me.

"Pitiful…"

"Oh great...hey, Ram, we need to talk…" I got up from the floor as I leaned against the counter of the sink. "About...Rem."

"What is there to speak about. Please don't tell me that you are still under the delusion that my beautiful little sister is actually interest in you...only a fool would believe in such a thing." She mocked as she rolled her eyes.

"Ram...stop it." I took a deep breath as I turned towards her, she was washing the utensils from last night's dinner. "Please, just be serious for once." I pleaded.

She sighed as she turned towards me. "Give it a little while...Rem, this is just a phase for her. She just doesn't know how to handle these emotions…"

My face inherently formed revulsion as I registered Ram's words. "Ram… this isn't love or attraction, but this is weird…" I took a glance out of the kitchen door to make sure Rem was not listening. "This feels strange...like possessiveness or something. I would understand more if Rem was like this before, but this is something else."

"Before?" She questioned. Her eyes now coming back to meet mine as she finished up cleaning the dishes.

"Rem only seemed to show happiness only towards you. I can understand that because you are twins, two peas in a pod. Though the way she acts towards me is strangely intimate, after what happened I have a lot of mixed feelings about it."

Rem was emotionless…cold even. It was a hard thing to explain but seeing her so emotional and so attached just felt so artificial.

A grin formed across Ram's adorable face. "I thought a guy like yourself would enjoy having girls throw themselves at you…"

"When you use the word throw, I remember Rem throwing her flail at me." My fingers caressed through my hair as I sat myself down on the table. "How can this be...this is not forgiveness or atonement, this is wrong...it even weirds me out how she follows me around. How she tries to mirror me."

"Fine, I will talk with her, give it some time...maybe she will come to her senses soon." Ram mumbled.

A sigh escaped my lips in relief. "Okay, thanks Ram…"

"Hey...want to make yourself useful?" Ram spoke out as she faced me. Her pink eyes formed into a permanent scowl for no apparent reason.

"Sure…"

"Know how to fish? Rem wants to cook it for dinner, also I am going to help...so you won't have to worry about her poisoning your food."

It was not out of malice or a cheap shot that Rem spoke those final words. It seemed that she cared…it has been a long while since I had a real meal that was not either made by Ram or came from the pantry.

"Yeah...I am going to check on Beatrice, see if she wants to come or something." I replied.

"Okay...then, well shoo useless boy…" Ram said, while using her hands to wave me away like I was some sort of animal.

I began walking to the library. Well, it did not take me long as I opened the door that was adjacent to the kitchen but was further down the hall which made it a relatively quick trip.

"Ay...Betty." I called out to the spirt. She was sitting in the same exact spot as last time and always reading the same book.

"Dismas...are you feeling better?"

I walked over towards her as she closed her book. She was still sitting down as she glanced up at me as I took a knee. "Hey, Beatrice…"

I knew that Beatrice liked to stay in her library all day. Though I had to try…

"Want to go fishing, Betty." I nearly fell on my face, the exhaustion apparent as she had to hold me steady. "Let us catch something big alright?"

"Dismas…" Her sharp tone cutting into me, causing me to be more alert. "Have. You slept?"

I shook my head as she exhaled. The bags underneath my eyes must of have looked obvious as my disheveled hair clearly shown my lack of sleep.

"Were you worried, about your nightmares." She queried.

A sudden laugh echoed from me. Shocking the little spirit as she got up from the seat as she ran her fingers through my hair, trying to make me look presentable.

"Funny, huh…" I glanced into her strange eyes; the confusion littered inside. "I could take on great assassins, contend with a demon maid...even pierce the heart of an ancient monster. But I…"

A quiet sob echoed from me. My head slowly beginning to hurt. "Though I am scared of nightmares…" Beatrice stopped as her little fingers wiped away a strand of tears. "I'm sorry, Beatrice. I really am a failure…"

"No, you're not…" Beatrice spoke, her red coat trailing along the floor as she quickly rushed to my side.

"Yes, I am…" I got up from the crouch. "How long has it been since dad died...eight maybe nine years?"

"It's been so long, and I have suffered so greatly, but why him...it's been so long ever since I thought of him before, but why now?"

My fingers on my right hand began to slowly spasm. They were memories…of pain that should be forgotten, but I failed to forget.

"It's not just him...but of the people I killed, and the horrible things I had to see and experience." My memories surged. Of the war...and my time in this new world.

My fingers forming into a fist, as I squeezed into it. I felt the soft liquid of my blood pour into it, causing the memories to be blocked by the sudden pain, making me come back to reality.

"I've been stuck in the past for so long, Beatrice…" The blood tickled my fingertips as my nails dug further into my hands. "The pain from days long past is still there…and I don't know if I have the strength to be able to move forward."

Her soft hands wrapped around my closed palm. I felt her magic slowly healing me as I stared into the bookshelves. "We can move past this; you can move past this...Dismas. I believe in you."

"Believe…" I repeated the word.

"You are strong…" Beatrice muttered as I closed my eyes. My ears slowly shutting down her words.

"No... I am weak, and I failed so many times...I don't even know myself anymore."

Memories of my time at the destroyed bar resurfaced. Me dying countless times, Rom getting split in half like a log of wood…Felt, her hand slit from the rest of her body as I cradled her dying body to my chest.

"You do...you think you don't, but we all can see the type of man you are, and the type of man you're going to become."

I shook my head as the words could not reach me. "I am a fool…a coward…"

"You are brave…"

My right hand went across my face as I tried to hold in my tears. "I couldn't help, or save anyone...I'm nothing, just a speck of sand in the endless desert." My gaze went down to the bookshelves below me. "I gave up…"

Beatrice did not say anything to that part. The words echoing through the bookshelves of the massive library, for a minute I could only hear the hum of her magic across my bleeding hand.

"I suppose you did, but you came back...stronger than before."

I gazed down at my newly healed hand. The outline of the scar now beginning to diminish, but what now?

"Come with me, let's go fishing...but I have something to show you." Beatrice commanded; she opened the door as I followed. Walking to the nearest window.

We walked out of the library as she positioned herself right next to one of the windows. "Pick me up." She ordered. I complied as I picked her up and rested her on my shoulders. "There…" She simply pointed.

My eyes scanned the area, seeing the mountains and miles of forest that made up the estate and grounds of Roswell's mansion. "What am I supposed to look at, it's only forest…"

"No... you fool!" She pointed harder as she flailed the same arm. "Past the forest, past the merchant caravans...in the capitol." She sighed as she took a breather. "There is a university for people like you, those talented with magic, someone like you would be accepted on the spot."

"...thanks Beatrice." I closed my eyes, trying to picture the lavished building. "But you are really overestimating me before my gate was okay but now it is tarnished. I can't even write, and I can hardly read anything."

Beatrice clicked her lips in annoyance as she rested on my shoulders. My hands on her knees to support her. "People like you are rare…"

"I don't…"

"Many people can't use magic; some people's gates can't even handle it. Though there are people like the demon maids who were blessed by Od laginca and were given skills with magic, but there are people like you…"

"People like me…" I repeated her words as I continued staring at the trees. I wonder…what is this world like, past this place.

"Those that can use multiple elements...it's abnormal, but for those like yourself, extremely talented. Even with your natural talent with the spirit arts, it is not amazing but it is above average. It's that block you have with spirits, fix it then you can use minor spirts...or even better yet you can create a contract."

"You may even have the potential to mix spells together and even combine them…" Beatrice got out from my arms as I kneeled once again so we could be on the same eye level. "That is your potential, Dismas. Betty believes in you…"

I felt my lips quiver as I grabbed onto her. My hands wrapping around her as I pulled her into a hug. I could not cry anymore, but I felt myself calm down. The voice in my head...my doubt being slowly silenced by her words as I got up and wiped my teary eyes.

"Ay...Beatrice. Thank you!"

She rolled her eyes as she lightly patted my back. "You really are...troublesome." She murmured into my ear.

"Beatrice...can we please. Keep this to ourselves…" I felt a smile loosen over my wet face. "I have my pride…"

"Fine, fool!" She pouted as me and her began to walk.

"Though you have a choice, Dismas."

She turned back towards me. Her face now steeled as she stared at me, her face and tone being one to be taken seriously.

"You won't be able to return for a while and many things may change. You and the beast maid, you have just started getting close to her...it can lead to something, beautiful. Though are you willing to risk that to get stronger."

My gaze went to my hands. "Frederica…" I hummed the single word out as my voice felt tired and worn.

Let's smile...together.

Those were the words that I spoke after I woke up. I hardly knew her though, sure I liked her...hell she was attractive. Though that was it...I hardly knew her. Beatrice was right, if I did leave, I would be leaving everyone behind.

Pictures of everybody began to bloom inside of my head. Ram insulting me, Rem following me, Beatrice reading her book, Puck's strange voice...Frederica's smile.

The people I cared for and wished to protect. Emilia's face came up...but I felt a scowl begin to form as I continued walking towards the kitchen. My fist tightening up from the thought of her face and the hum of her voice. The sudden feeling came quickly and was gone the next.

Replaced with the feeling of shock as I stared open mouthed down the hallway.

Why was I angry...at the thought of Emilia?

"Yo...Ram!"

Beatrice was by my side. My hand rested over her head as I slightly rubbed it, causing annoyance from the little spirit as she tried to battle my hand. "Beatrice is coming...got any fishing rods?"

Ram clearly irritated with my presence as she refused to glance back. "I left them hanging around the door for you. Catch three or four…"

I heard the soft clap of shoes coming from the pantry. Seeing Frederica hold a basket of fruit as she slowly approached. Her hands wrapped around the basket as she lightly dropped it on the table.

"Dismas...Ms. Beatrice. Good morning." She smiled as she greeted me and Beatrice. A faint smirk spread across my face, only to be registering pain in the next second as Beatrice's foot squeezed into my shoe in annoyance.

"Ay, Frederica." My gaze went towards the golden-haired maid. "Hey, want to come with us fishing!"

She glanced at me, they looked down at her shoes. "Sorry...I ca…"

"Go...me and Rem will take care of everything here." Ram spoke causing me to stifle a cough. Her sudden interruption confusing me. Did she actually…help me?

Frederica still in disbelief that Ram would even say anything like that spoke. "Are you sure...I am your senior; would it really be appropriate for me to leave."

"Rem and I can take care of the rest…" She sighed as she glanced at me. "Dismas is a fool...an idiot, a buffoon. Knowing him he will get himself in trouble."

She looked back to me and Beatrice. A soft smile forming…

"Okay…" She softly whispered as she joined us. Rem shooting me a look of both annoyance but a trickle of happiness, maybe even compassion for once. Least she could do after kneeing me in the face. Though I did deserve it.

It did not take long for us to leave the mansion. I was clutching the fishing rods under my armpits as Beatrice clung to my hand. Frederica walking to my side as she stared down through the road aimlessly.

What to say…

"Nice weather, ay Frederica." I spoke trying to break the dreary silence. If it were just me and Beatrice, I think it would of have been quite boring. Sure, she helped me get through things, but she was not much of a talker.

Just like my little sister…always with a book in her hand. A soft grin formed as I ran my hand through the spirits hair.

She looked up at me. Her gaze following my eyes as I clutched Beatrice's hand. "Good weather for fishing...my grandfather would take me on holiday towards the cold part of the country, ever did ice fishing?" I asked.

She shook her head as I continued. "It's when you get a drill and make a hole in the ice. Cold salmon...best time of the year to get them."

A soft smile formed as she listened to me. "Ms. Beatrice you really clutch to Dismas don't you."

"Betty is Dismas's support." Beatrice spoke. Her head cocked in pride as her grip tightened along my hand.

A snort came from me, causing a glare to be targeted at me from Beatrice. "Support...more like my little sister."

"Dismas...I am older than you…" Beatrice said. I stopped along the dirt path as the words reached my ears... "Wait...what?"

"I am older than you...even older than your great grandfather. Betty, is more like a mother figure…"

Jesus Christ…

"Okay, we're here…" Frederica motioned her left hand towards the clearing.

My eyes tracked the area. Bright lush grass fields surrounded the clearing, the previous melted snow now bloomed colorful wildflowers that brightened the surrounding area.

A long stream ran across and through the forest. Bright blue water filled with bright stones and light ground dirt filled the stream. Faint outlines of fish filled the pond. There scales reflecting the light of the sun.

I let go of Beatrice's hand. She walked off to the side of the meadow, perching herself on a small tree stump. I kicked off my shoes as I entered the pond, the dirt fragments bubbling to the surface as I felt a shiver run a course through my body.

"Is it cold…" Frederica called out. Her dress flapping from the wind as she held it down.

"Why…"

"I'm not going to go in if it's cold." She screamed back. Her bright hair flowing from the breeze.

My lips loosened into a smile as I felt the cold begin to diminish. I turned my face away from her so she would not see my smile. "Yeah...it's completely warm, man it's unnaturally warm!"

"Really…" She quickly kicked off her shoes as she slightly lifted her dress. Her feet splashed into the pond as they lightly danced along the surface. "Cold...it's freezing, Dismas!" She cried out.

A snicker came from Beatrice. "Should of have expected that...Dismas is a jokester, and a sarcastic jerk!"

"Ay...Betty!" I feigned anger as another snicker came from me.

"Listen I'm…" A giggle escaped my lips as I tried to suppress my laugh. Frederica frowned as she walked to the side. "...Sorry." I finished the sentence. "Like you should of have seen it. With all that splashing you must of have scared all the fish in the area away."

"Dismas…" She groaned as I threw the fishing line into the deeper part of the pond. The cold made me awake and alert, waking me from the drunken stupor and the lack of sleep from the prior night.

I turned towards her. "Ay...Frederica got any siblings."

"A... brother." She quickly responded.

"Little or big?"

"Little…"

I reeled back the line as I continued speaking "I have a little sister; it's been a while ever since I had seen her." Frederica motioned for me to continue, me pulling back the line. "She was awesome...she was very mature, just like Beatrice. She always used these big words and had a very funny way of speaking...she inherited my mother and grandfathers accent too."

The sudden gleam of Frederica's emerald eyes caused my heart to skip a beat. The thoughts of why this girl was not married yet shocked me.

"Accent…" She repeated the word.

"What...oh did you have one also. We were born in the Americas, but we left for western Europe…that was around the time sis was born so she grew up around the English, but I still retained my good old American voice."

"I was raised by my grandparents so yeah." She moved her gaze down to our bare feet. Small fish moving around them as they quickly skittered away. "They had a very old way of speaking."

"Me too...my grandfather was like a second father, sort of a drunk but he was alright." My gaze went back to her. She let her dress reach the water, now getting slightly soaked. I rolled up my pant legs though, glad that I was not wearing anything special.

"Well let me hear it…"

She looked down. Her face going red as an apple as she gazed up towards me. Her mouth slightly gapped as I saw her fangs. "I…can't. You will, laugh…"

My vision went back to Beatrice as she quickly nodded her head for me to continue. A smile poking from outside of the book. "Oh…please. I won't laugh."

She sighed as she softly nodded her head. "You promise…"

My hand rested on my chest, over my heart. "Yes…on my life." I promised.

She held the ends of her dress, both parts now dripping wet. Her eyes slowly closing as her mouth opened. "I am Frederica Baouman. A maid from the maathers house…"

Me and Beatrice both erupted into laughter. It was a blend between Yiddish and something else. The pole slipped from my hands, as it fell into the stream. Beatrice's legs hitting the trunk of the tree as she chuckled.

Her face went cherry red as she covered her face with her hands. "Aw don't be embarrassed...it's cute."

Her face brightened up a soft smile forming, replaced with a frown in the very next second. "Aw crap...did I say something wrong."

"No... nothing like that." She glanced at me, her head tilting a tiny bit, like she was trying to observe my face. "But do you know the weight of what you're saying…"

My fingers rubbed the back of my head. "Honestly, I don't know...your pretty cute. Also, I wonder what it would be like to kiss a girl with fangs…"

"What...no that's not what I'm talking about!" She took a deep breath as she began to compose herself once again. "I'm a demi-human...and your, Emilia's knight."

"What…" I tilted my head in confusion. "I'm not her knight…" I replied.

"Formerly speaking, yes." Beatrice mused as she continued speaking. "You're a spirit knight...someone that could create contracts with spirits, remember what I told you before. You literally passed the margin to be accepted as one."

"Such a relationship can have effects on your reputation." Frederica slowly spoke.

My hand went to my chin as I slightly rubbed it. Damn, she was cute…even worrying about me at a time like this. "Bah...who cares about reputation. I have my pride and that's my greatest weapon."

Also, her teeth are sharp and dangerous...but that is where the fun is right?

"Damn...we're not catching anything." I began to speak once again, picking back up my fishing rod. "Also, why would I care, Frederica?"

She stared at me…her mouth slightly agape. Her hands clutched to her dress as that red hue did not vanish.

"I'm friends with the twins and Emilia. I would think your smart enough for you to pick up that I don't care about such things…" I saw the faint outlines of tears at the side of her eyes. "But that accent, though...has me thinking second thoughts!"

"Dismas…" Frederica slowly called my name. Though nothing was said after that exchange. Just the conversation was spoken and that was it. The confession…of me not caring of how she looked.

I tossed the rod to the side as I failed to grasp the fish. "Bah we're not getting anything out here...Frederica back up."

She took a couple of steps back, her pale feet dancing carefully along the stones to avoid the sharp ones. "What are you doing…"

"You'll see." I responded quickly, a faint smile over my face.

I took a deep breath as I raised up my right hand. "Minya…

The purple shard began to form as I continued visualizing it. My hand pulsing with mana as it was launched into the meadow. A loud pop came from the water as dozens of fish sprayed free from the explosion.

A dozen. Yellow, blue even red fish graced and touched the sky as water rained down on the three of us like rain.

"Damn...Betty we're eating good tonight!" I cheered as I threw my hands into the air. As I heard glass cracking…

Fool

Beatrice stared at the sleeping boy. "Foolish, Dismas...sometimes the demon maid is correct, I suppose…"

Frederica was sitting down. Dismas's head in her lap as he softly breathed. His breathing cracked as his voice tumbled down, his throat stinging as he softly sighed.

"Ay...Dismas." Beatrice called into his ear. She pouted as she stared at the young man, her eyes forming a glare as she pressed her shoe against his bare foot.

"Ms. Beatrice!" Frederica cried out as concern littered her face.

"What...the idiot deserves this." A snort came from her. "Pride...give me a break Dismas. You would kill yourself to preserve your pride, sometimes I wonder if you're going to reach the age of twenty before you die on some battlefield."

"Ms. Beatrice...enough." Frederica commanded. Her gaze locking onto the spirit, unintentional malice directed.

It took a second to register for Beatrice, tilting her head like an observant owl as she stared at the pair. "Don't tell me that with a couple of sweet words that Dismas has you wrapped around his finger."

Her face darkened red as she ran a finger through his mop of hair. "Oh god…" Beatrice rubbed her eyes hard to make sure that she was seeing what she thought she was seeing. "You...really did!"

Frederica avoided Beatrice's look. Her gaze traveling to the passed-out boy whose head rested on her lap, her hand lightly combing through his wet hair. A small smile over her face.

"Aw...looks like we have two fools. Two lovesick fools." Beatrice whispered as she walked over to her side.

Frederica glanced back up to Beatrice. Soft emerald eyes meeting her own. "Do you really think it's impossible?" She asked.

Beatrice was shocked, her ears ringing as the sudden question sent off a million thoughts. "I…"

"I'm a deserter Beatrice it's what I do!"

The words repeated in her head as she stared at the yellow haired girl. Dismas's head held steady on her caring lap as for the first time, he looked at peace.

Beatrice's squinted her eyes in anger. Avoiding her gaze as she took a deep breath to compose herself. She turned back, now ready to meet her eager eyes. Beatrice's answer now ready.

"You need to talk to him about this...he is leaving for the capitol soon. Discuss it with him before you leave." She responded, her hand right hand rubbing her red coat.

Frederica nodded her head, a faint smile still directed at the sleeping boy. "I guess...I have to pack the fish, it's getting late."

"Yeah…I suppose." Beatrice simply responded. Her voice devoid of warmth, the guilt blooming within. Should I have told her the truth? No, it will only do more harm…and I will be doing a disservice to Dismas if he is not awake.

Frederica laid Dismas against the tree stump which Beatrice was sitting before. The spirit stared at the boy, staring into his face.

"You really are the king of fools...even overusing your gate for something as trivial as getting fish, or was it to impress the beast maid?" Beatrice spoke, her hands wrapped around herself as she scolded the sleeping boy.

She glanced down at Frederica who was quickly running along the pond. Grabbing and quickly packing the fish.

"Rem…"

His voice was strained as he called her name. "Oh...even thinking about other girls while you sleep, what a distasteful man you are. Beatrice really shouldn't waste her…"

"Please, Rem…stop." His voice came in a whisper. His voice cracking as soft tears came from his face. "Please don't...I don't want to die, not here...please."

His head began to thrash around, his fingers on his right-hand squirming as they moved on their own. "Beatrice...Ram...someone...please save me." He called out.

Beatrice's hand clamped onto his own hands. His body and arms shaking in fear as he pulsated from her touch. She quickly used her hands to wipe away his tears once again.

Her thoughts went into overdrive. "Before you were dreaming of your father but now…the demon maid. Did your trauma really get that worse?"

The touch of her hand made Dismas's body slightly stop. It was warm but she felt the indents of scars and rough patches of skin, but she did not let go.

"I know for certain that you wouldn't want them to see you cry...is that why you always came to Betty, because you hoped she would have understood." She clutched his hand tighter as she moved closer. "You are a fool...but your place lies beyond this. I saved my explanation of what you are to the girl…"

"I didn't tell her what I truly thought...of what you are." A small smile formed as she talked to Dismas, about what she thought of him…of all the things she felt he could accomplish. "Your place belongs farther doesn't it?"

"We are just stones in the road for you...the twins, the girl...which I can tell you have begun to care for, and even…"

"Even...me." She chocked down a sob as she continued talking. "For you to keep on walking, and to keep on moving forward...I know that you are talented, a true champion…"

"You...are...special." She looked over Dismas one more time. Her hands slightly caressing his hair. "Maybe, you are the one I have been searching for…"

"Ms. Beatrice…" Frederica spoke causing Beatrice to be broken from her daze.

"What is it...you have collected all the fish?" Beatrice quickly replied as she wiped the faint tears off her face.

Frederica held a tiny net which contained the rest of the fish. The other were either too blown up or were too small to eat. "You are going to need to carry him back." Beatrice said as she grabbed her book and looped it under her armpit.

Frederica nodded as she picked him up. Adjusting the bag against her back as she princess carried Dismas.

"Please don't tell him about this...the poor fool's pride will surely be damaged." Beatrice mused; a soft smile earned across Frederica's lips.

As they began walking…

Party

"Ay...Roswell you bastard!"

Roswell turned to Dismas. His shirt removed as his pant legs were still rolled up. A red hue vibrant across his face as he gulped down more of the alcohol. His feet pranced once and twice as he tried to maintain his footing.

"Hellooo the…"

"Fuck you, bitch!" Dismas yelled as he pointed his bottle at him. "Fight me...my yin magic is the greatest...I am the greatest mage…no, wizard there ever was to live…"

Dismas cheered himself as he jumped up and down, earning a laugh from the great wizard himself.

"You really are Dismas!" Rem quickly clapped as she ran to his side, her drink nearly spilling. "The greatest yin magic mage to ever exist!"

Ram sighed as she took a sip from her own drink. "You really are a fool...trying to manipulate my sister into believing you are more than what you are not…"

Rem and Dismas were still sharing the same rosy expression. As Frederica watched from the sidelines…

"Come on...Freddy"

She glanced up at the black-haired boy. His hand extended as she lightly gripped it as he pulled her from her seat, his hand resting along her shoulder.

"Victory!"

"Victory!" Rem screamed out imitating Dismas. "Victory…" Frederica responded as she leaned closer into his chest, her face flushing red as she pressed deeper towards his neck.

Dismas glanced down at her. "Frederica...how many kids do you want." He asked, the sudden question shocking everyone in the room.

"What!" She responded as her legs began to shake.

Ram glossed over towards the pair as she overheard their conversation. "If I become Emilia's knight then that makes me nobility...our kids will have noble blood!" A cough came from him as he tried to compose himself. "So how many do you want, because I want to start saving up for there education!"

"Education..." Ram chuckled as she turned her seat to face the trio. "Dismas any children of yours will be imbeciles like yourself."

"Quiet, Rem...me and Frederica's children will be little angels!" Frederica's arm was around Dismas, as he slightly hugged her. "How many do you want, Freddy?"

She held both of her hands over the drink. Staring into it…her gaze went back towards Dismas. His chestnut eyes and a smile waiting for her. "A boy with black hair…and emerald eyes. I suppose it wouldn't be that bad." She slowly whispered.

"Great…" Though he stopped as he let her go and sprinted around the room, his eyes trying to find something. "Ay wait...where's Beatrice!"

Dismas saw the girl outside on the balcony. Talking to Emilia and Puck as Dismas opened the sliding door, the brisk outside wind causing him to cough from the cold.

"Ay, Betty!" he called out to her. His hand outstretched as he tried to snatch her and bring her inside, but he only clumsily fell on his face. A loud outstretched laugh came from Ram herself at the recent blunder.

She turned around catching his gaze. "Give me a second, Dismas."

He went back inside, his arms wrapping around Frederica and Rem as they laughed at a misplaced joke...joyful smiles forming across their faces. Ram…even her face was tilted for once, into a soft grin.

"Strange…" Puck murmured.

"What Bubby?" Beatrice asked. She placed down her drink on the balcony as she watched through the window.

Emilia's gaze focused on her father. "Puck, did something…"

"Dismas asked only for you to come out, Beatrice. He did not even acknowledge me and Emilia's existence. He only asked, you…"

A sigh escaped Beatrice's lips. An eyeroll following shortly after. Her thoughts making her think that Puck was trying to use this against Dismas as a sign of a witch cultist.

"Puck, it's nothing. Dismas is drunk so he must of have forgot…" Emilia waved off as she leaned against the railing.

"Maybe...or maybe it is something?"

Beatrice sighed once again as she stared up towards her brother. "Bubby...explain. Why is it such a big deal?"

"You really care for the boy...I am just a little worried." Puck spoke, his voice harsher and more serious.

Beatrice ignored him. Her face now trained towards the stars and the bright moon. "Dismas...how long has he been here? Huh, a couple of weeks?" Puck rhetorically asked.

"I suppose…"

"He saved us from the bowel hunter, fought against Rem... even had the heart to let her stay here. Look…" He pointed his paw at the smiling trio, Ram even breaking into a soft smile as she watched them. "Then he fought against that monster and was victorious!" Puck cheered his hands rising towards the air, bright snow falling in an exaggerated and dramatic manner.

Puck's eyes went towards his daughter. "Emilia...go in there for a second."

"Okay, Puck…" She left hesitantly. Not before taking a second glance towards the duo on the balcony.

Puck flew to Beatrice's shoulder as he watched the half-elf leave through the door. "Now watch...Beatrice." He spoke, a chill running down her throat.

They both watched through the window. Watching as Emilia walked towards them. Dismas's eyes locked onto her form. It took a second but his joyful movements with Rem and Frederica ceased for a second.

His lower lip going slightly into his mouth as he adjusted pressure into it drawing blood. His fist shaking in furry as it wrapped along the bottle. The sight of her causing him to narrow his eyes, but in the next second replaced with a smile…like nothing even happened.

"What...the fuck." Beatrice whispered, even cursing from the sudden shock.

"Yeah…" Puck simply responded, unimpressed with the whole scene.

Beatrice's hand went through her hair as she took a step back. "I don't understand…" She muttered to herself, she was even in near disbelief that her eyes were working correctly.

"You were right. I do not think Dismas is a part of the witch cult. Though there are issues now…"

"Issues…" Beatrice repeated.

Puck's words came out cold as ice. His voice was harsher and deeper as he spoke. "Dismas...he is slowly growing to hate Emilia."

"What. Why?"

"How many times has he fought for her, Beatrice? He does not fight for her due to allegiance or love. He is forced to fight, Roswell...he knows what Dismas is capable of and that's why he forced him to stay here."

Puck sighed as he slowly shook his head. "He may not even be realizing it...though, I can tell that something changed."

"Though he is healing I…" Beatrice tried to speak only to form empty words, her hands stretched in front of her as she tried to speak.

"Is he...really, Beatrice?" He groaned as he rubbed his face. "Fighting...it leaves behind scars that one cannot forget. Especially against enemies like the ones we have encountered here…"

"So, you think...he is growing to resent her." Beatrice once again asked, still having issues believing in her brother's words.

The cold between the siblings increased. The sudden pressure even being strong enough to crack the stone supporting the estate itself.

"Isn't it obvious? He is not close to her and he does not even understand anything about her and the election. To him...all that suffering for just some rock, it can cause resentment to bloom like a flower."

Beatrice held her mouth. Though as she stared at the trio through the window. Rem and Dismas talking as Frederica still blushing bright red clung to Dismas's hand now. "Though he forgave…"

"Beatrice don't be naive...did Dismas ever forgive Rem?" He snapped back. His sudden tone causing the air to get colder.

"Please Rem... stop"

"Yes...he is growing to resent her, or maybe he will even grow to hate her very existence. Though I know this, Dismas is loyal...he will save her and be there by her side."

Beatrice's gaze went to her brother, disgusted. Dismas's smile brightened her mind as she held her hands together. "How do you know he will stay by her side?"

"Because of them…" He pointed towards the group. "He will protect them…and that includes Emilia. He is loyal like an animal…even to you."

"Even though he is slowly going mad...due to this. Do you still believe in those words you told him before...that he could heal here?"

"Beatrice...face it. Without Dismas, Emilia would die...I cannot always protect her. Roswell was right, sure I didn't want to admit it, but Dismas was the perfect one for the job."

The flashing light dimmed down as Dismas sat down. The red drunken hue surrounding his head as he closed his eye and rested near the fireplace, Rem's head resting along his leg as she softly snored as Frederica softly sighed on his shoulder.

"He looks so peaceful…" He murmured. "Frederica, she already…"

"Yes…I know. It is way too quick, and Dismas I already know the type of man he is. She is going to get hurt in the end…Should we warn her…?" Beatrice asked.

"I doubt that she would listen…Dismas accepted her and all her faults. I could tell that she is falling hard for him though. Saved her, compliments her, cares for her…even wants her romantically, how many human men like Dismas would willingly be in a relationship with a demi human, even one with minor demi-human traits. Dismas, he is a powerful force…it is like what Roswell said before how if he were just born in a different house, how he would have most likely become one of the royal guards. That is why it is so very important to have him work for Emilia."

"It's cruel I know...but people like Dismas don't exist, there rare." Another quant sigh arises from him. "Especially those that hold no ill will against demi-humans or silver haired half elves."

"Trained with both the magic and spirt arts. Athletic body, and his reflexes are top notch...honestly we are lucky that we ran into him in that crappy bar…"

"On our side...you don't think…" Beatrice repeated, a fear began to bloom that began to make her sick. "You don't think, Dismas. He would never leave or join the other camps!

"Beatrice, I get that you care for him. Though why would he want to stay here...with all these horrible memories."

He took a deep breath as he observed the group. "I can feel his impulses. He tries to hide them, but they are so blatant."

"What are they now?" Beatrice asked, her back sliding down as she took a seat to support herself.

"Beatrice...I can read him but it's fear that I feel the most. It's a horrible feeling for him to carry such a weight." He flew towards his sister. "He is going to break soon…"

"How long…" Beatrice asked, her gaze focused on the stars above her.

"I wish we had more time before they leave for the capitol. Who knows what he is going to encounter there…"

He took a deep breath, his little paw tracing his face as he gleaned towards the moon. "Nice night…"

"It really is…" Beatrice whispered, her eyes glancing out the window.

Rem was snoring and drooling on his pants. Frederica held a rosy expression as she glanced into Dismas's eyes, a soft joke floating from his lips as they both broke from laughter.

Beatrice felt her mouth form into a smile as soft tears began to form. "Making me cry like this, Dismas. You really are a dreadful and hopeless man, but don't worry...Betty."

She took a deep breath. "Betty...she will support you."

"Dismas...now, don't worry. Mother...told me to watch over you and I will make sure you are safe, until you eventually meet."

She spoke the last part, faint tears coming down her cheek. "She...loves you…more than anything in this world."

Author Note

Hi!

Wonderful and awesome people! Wow 100 people followed holy shit that's crazy! Wow, that's awesome thank you all! First off thanks for everyone that has reviewed, favorited, liked, followed, subscribed, red through, and overall checked out the story. Each one of you are badass and awesome people! This chapter came out fine, but I am going to come back and fix some of Pucks and Beatrice's lines towards the end. Also the ending of how Echidna is the one that loves Dismas, that will be explained later on. Also this is where the divergence is truly going to begin! A completely different ending! Also no alliance with the crush camp!

For this special ova chapter I made it over 8,000 words! The longest chapter yet and for that I may not upload another one for next weak, I need a break for just a little while though I may or may not create another one as quickly as this one. This chapter is possibly the most important one of them all so there will be a little explanation farther down. This one was pretty nice to make. Friendship, love, hope...and an eventual broken promise. Frederica and Dismas are moving pretty fast but trust me this is apart of the story and I know where I am going with this. Dismas's trauma was shown, and now finally Beatrice and Puck are talking about what Dismas is and what may very well happen to him.

Now after this point things are going to get interesting. Differentiating from canon. Ep 13 is going to be crazy and past that. But also this one Dismas and Emelia's relationship. In many oc stories I never see this. How many characters just go along with Emelia's plan. Sure Emelia is a good person but Subaru is always the one that saves the day. So Dismas...a person who doesn't hold any bias on the situation gives off his own view of things. Sure they will talk later on about there differences but I wanted to cover this in the chapter and the growing resentment he is beginning to form.

Explanation

Okay, so for those that are confused let me explain. Dismas is unconsciously blaming Emelia for what has happened ever since the first loop. He doesn't have the same relationship that Subaru has with Emelia, and instead of bonding with Emelia he bonded with the other residents of the mansion instead. Dismas, who is suffering and is now experiencing trauma is looking for someone to place the blame on so he places it on Emelia due to his views on how she is a poor leader and how she is going to doom them all. He doesn't want to make her queen, but he has died so much that he feels that if he just gives up or leaves then it will be all for nothing. There is no loyalty, care, or friendship in there relationship at least for now that is.

Reviews

Guest - Feb 8: Yeah...Dismas and Frederica, let's just say that they get along right now. But there relationship is going to have a lot of bumps along the way, especially after season 1. Though thanks for writing the review and reading.

WiltedGalaxy: Thanks dude for keeping up with the story and I hope you enjoy this chapter. Yeah, that was another thing that confused me quite a bit...a lot of stories on the site are just a retelling of a different Subaru. That's what I am trying to avoid and you are going to see a lot of things change. For example Subaru's loyalty towards the other camps, even after they would fuck him over. Lets just say this...Dismas isn't going to be as kind or forgiving towards them. Season 1 is going to have a completely different ending which is going to change the overall course of lagunica. Nothing major but it's going to be very crazy! Also Dismas has a very "pack mentality" towards people. That's also something to be noted when he confronts the other camps.

Slachboy: Lol...never even thought of how Satella saved Dismas! To make your oc forgive Rem it all depends on the circumstance and what happened, Dismas doesn't forgive easily and still suffers from the trauma with Rem. That's why logically he can't forgive her, he can coexist but never forget. Also no...the character was inspired by darkest dungeon but I am not going to bring the characters, it's just how it would mess up the story quite a bit. Thanks for reading bro and I hope you enjoy this one!

Cheemz: Here it is! A couple more Frederica and Dismas moments, also yeah...the past plan was to make Dismas just give up and reset but I decided against that idea. He is a good person and is very brave, but he gets afraid because he is human. Also Ram is awesome! Thanks for reading and I hope you liked this chapter!

Dracodelah: Thanks I hope you like this one!