Puck
« Archbishop of sloth, Petelgeuse Romanee Conti ! »
So it was them after all...
It was careless of me to think they wouldn't come in a long time. I should have known the malicious waste no time. It doesn't matter. I just need to crush them all. There's no point in pondering what to do with those sickos. Just -
Wait, this name
« Hey, you ! »I gasped « Just who are you ?! »
The man bent his neck in an unnatural, then stretched his ears, pretending to not hear
« Quoi?Someone needs to listen more » He said in a loud voice, chuckling and speaking at the same time
« You truly ...are slothful »
!
I felt compressed as if someone tried to squeeze me in one point. My vision went black and I soon understood that it was because I was facing my own fur up close. All pores of my body were compressed,
Distantly I could hear shouts also my muffled ears couldn't make out what anyone was saying. I think I heard Subaru's and the villager's voices, however.
This annoying man's voice rang clear as day though
« Slothful, diligently slothful! You shouldn't have spent time asking pointless questions, you disgusting spirit. Get punished by the fruit of her love !"
« Dad ?!» a telepathic message came, panicked.
I guess it's not good for me to stay in that state. Lia getting worried isn't good for her growth . Still….
« You youngsters should stop underestimating me. Such a pathetic number of hands is nothing to me »
All it took for me to be free was to release some of my inner power.
The man that used the attack in the first place clutched his head till blood, professing his anger at how I broke « his proof of love »
Still
I did not expect to be a victim of the hands ever again in my lifetime. Nevermind so soon. And from this man...
I can't recognize him. His hair, his voice looks familiar, and so does his aura. But I cannot remember
And it does not matter.
Even if that man used to be a friend I won't be sorry.
« You are but a threat to Lia's life. Return to where you belong mortal! »
« Al Huma ! »
No need to go in finesse. I made appear thousands of ice stakes before me, thanks to Lia's gargantuan reserves
« Preach from the grave your goddess will never reach! »
I fired the projectiles at them. Half were destined to their deranged leaders, while the others were for the numerous cloaked figure who simply stood guard after their first assault.
The green-haired man began one of his mad rants and seemed to be in a battle mindset however, though some stakes were deviated pr missed their mark, more than enough hit his body, piercing it apart in the only way the sinner deserves
His followers met a less gruesome fate but still fatal. Most were hit lethally and the few that were not instantly killed had none of a mortal's logical serf preservation and foolishly tried to attack the group, ensuring their death at my hands.
The archbishop named Petelgeuse had his body reduced to gore. His face was unrecognizable and his throat was pierced so he was not allowed to let out either last regrets or curses before his departure. His body had its arms spread out and crumbled along with its own weight.
At last, he was silent
I frowned for unknown reasons, but I moved my sight to my surroundings to search for any stragglers, but there was none as far as I could detect. I could sense the breath of life leaving the body of my victims, so my job was also well done on that front
When I gazed back at the group in the dome I lifted the ice barrier. Lia came rushing to m-was the reaction I expected.
What I found was an utterly lost and catatonic expression
Her gaze navigated between the man with green hair remains and my form, but couldn't seem to decide which was more worthy of attention. Her body also trembled although I knew her well enough that it wasn't the surprise bloodshed, battle, or cold that caused that reaction.
I couldn't help but feel hurt at this. I know her stubbornly kind nature. It brought her and would most likely bring her trouble in the future. She would have preferred the lives of our attackers to be spared. I too would have preferred to dispose of them without her witnessing it
Still, I also know she is not ignorant of how dangerous men like that can be. Although it is my fault for sheltering her, I wish she would not be hurt by that
But the most disturbing thing was that she was crying, yet didn't seem sad. Or rather tears streamed down her face and her frown and confusion were real, but she didn't seem to notice it. She was just left in shock and crying, but I couldn't fathom why. Was my display too brutal?
« Lia ? » I called out. There will be better times to sort such things in my mind. It's best not to let it fester. « Are you alright? » I hoped to bring her out of her torpor
It did seem to bring her out of her trance, and she quickly tried to hide her tears and to look out for the others. The villagers did not care so her disguise worked perfectly, but their troubled state was evident. It wasn't anything different from how mortals usually act in similar situations so I ignored it. The maid seemed elated at the death of the cultist although it was shared with her staying vigilant. As for Subaru...Like the villagers, he seemed overwhelmed at what just happened. He was looking around as well and...seemed to have some recognition. However, I know for a fact he isn't one of them.
It doesn't matter now. There might be others that will come to avenge them. We need to move now
Sleepy...
Hm ?
That's nothing. I envy humans and their coffee.
Subaru
The field, which was previously a normal forest trail was now a mess of blood, ashes, melted ice, bodies, and leaves.
The attackers had suffered a complete and utter defeat and paid it with their lives. Their arms would never arm us again...I hope
Puck reacted faster than any of us and quickly got rid of the attacker. I knew he was strong but him having left us early in the Elsa fight made me forget how bone-chilling he could be
As for the enemies...The witch-cult . Rem told me a glimpse about them before although she was elusive for obvious reason. I had been mistaken as them in the past so you could say my history with them didn't start today. Or rather ...let's not think about it. Their bodies are on the ground now. We should be safe now. Maybe we can even stop going to this Sanctuary place.
« Subaru kun are you alright » Rem gets me out of my thoughts
Like everyone else, she was unarmed although unlike me and the other villagers she wasn't pathetically at loss at what to do. I could not see her during the attack, being too busy looking down but now that I can, I can see that she was ready to go into battle should the barrier fail. Her morningstar was out, and she was looking at the body on the ground with an intense...grudge.
I wonder if...that time
Forget it
« Hmm » I stammered « Yeah sorry Rem I am alright. Just a bit shocked that's all. Don't worry about me »
« Are You sure?» She said, her concern overcoming the scorn she felt
« Yeah...I can't say I m used to see this many bodies but … If it gets us safe I'll stop being skirmish and push on » I said, not really believing it but that's what I had to do
« I see.. . »was Rem's only answer. She probably resented I gave sympathy to those men she hates so much. I'm such an idiot. I don't even like those guys. They killed everyone...I hate them. It's just my weakness
I came to look at the corpse of the green-haired man and had nausea. Bile came into my mouth as I was reminded of my own deserved fate in the past. Back when he was alive his rants were insane although I could only hear them from the ground
Still, I was terrified. He destroyed the ice barrier like it was nothing and I can't figure how he did it. Thankfully it should be the last time we see him. Yes, I just need to make sure this loop sticks. I don't need to fail to be a useless hero. If we can just get to the shelter we can be out of danger as soon as Ros chi comes back
« ... »
« ...We should leave now. I don't think any of us wants to stay here » Said Puck as he floated again to Emilia's side. She was looking in the same direction as me, an unreadable look on her face. She looked as if she had...cried?
Of course, I should have known. No way Emilia would be happy with such bloodshed. I should blame Pu-No it's wrong. He protected us. And I have no ground as I couldn't do anything.
After this, we resumed the march. I couldn't bring myself to talk to Emilia or Rem as I would have only caused them more turmoil. According to Re,m we should try to reach a local cave as a temporary rest, before departing at dawn to reach Sanctuary in the morning. Gaining their good grace would be more difficult in the middle of the night, or at least it was the plan but
« We shouldn't waste any time. In this forrest anymore. That bad feeling...it hasn't disappeared» Puck said, and none of us had anything to say to that
…
As of now, it had been 3 hours ever since we departed from the mansion. Combined with the time it took to get everyone to agree and prepare, I would say the afternoon was about to end soon and dusk was about to begin. Everyone was pretty worn out at this point, even Puck, Rem, and Emilia, who were well above the rest of us physically, but the mental fatigue they got in return to looking out for us wasn't small.
Some of the villagers also started to get cranky and the steps of some started to slow down. Those who were the most tired started to lag behind, but as they have used me too, those that had the more stamina took it upon themselves to take some of the most overwhelmed members' burdens by taking their luggage. I'm ashamed I couldn't do the same, as my own luggage from the mansion, mostly provisions, was pretty heavy. Rem wanted to take some of the villagers' luggage in her usual diligence, but I talked her out of it, as she had enough on her plate
« Hey, Rem is it? Are we far from our destination yet? » Puck called out a bit rudely, with a cranky voice
«We're about a third of the way great spirit sama. If we are continuing at the same pace, we should reach Sanctuary by midnight, but the next patch is going to be an uphill march. Our group might need- »
« I know what you're about to say maid, but I can't have that. I'm already... »He paused and did I not know better I would have said he panted « We need to move out. I'd rather not take chances » He said
Emilia interjected « Dad it's alright you should rest. We should be alright » she said, in a voice, she aimed to be resolute but was pretty low in volume
« No, I don't like to pull on your odd but- »
?!
What's grabbing my leg?
As the group was walking and explaining what they did next they were aware of the fact that they could not expect that they wouldn't face any other attack. As such, aside from the « no discussion » aura that exuded from the cat spirit, no one was really opposed to pressing the march, as there was no counter to the argument that they could be attacked again. In fact, most of the people present could not remove that fear from their own heads.
However, despite this, the reason did not change the fact that the march had been growing exhausting. From the stress of being on the run to the quite high pace at which they were walking and their (quite light) few possessions, all of those factors contributed to the accumulated fatigue.
Because of the sharp tensions, the few chat that happened at the start slowly but surely died, out, and most of the sounds produced from everyone's mouth were simply sounds of breathing.
« Do you think these people were all the cult had to send at us? Maybe we should just return to the village » said a young man in his twenties, in a hushed voice, to a young woman around his age
« That desperately unfounded optimism of yours always put you in trouble when we were young, why can't you remember life simply doesn't work that way, Tom! » She responded in kind « Besides.. . »She said, looking at the head of the group « with that half-demon spawn we are shackled with there's no way misfortune will miss us. It's a miracle she hasn't sent us to one of those witches fool trap yet »She sneered, even lower than before
They were not unaware that despite their common sense, their voice alone would never get them rid of the obvious source of their misery, the girl with silver hair the quite likable staff member of their lord mansion were paying particular attention to. It was an unfortunate situation but they sighed internally as it was the price of being born under the governance of a good lord as Roswaal. One cannot avoid their due misfortune, was a common saying in Arlam. More than ever it was true
« Good point.. . »Tom sighed in defeat « I hope aunty Rina will be okay, Jessica. At least she isn't here to get worried sick »
« She'd get less worried if you were less of a neck breaker...But nevermind that now. Let's not become worry wart ourselves ok » she said, patting his shoulders, as a sister would.
« Yeah. I'll try»
Standing strong despite the exhaustion, the two combined had an unbreakable spirit, enough to overcome the suddenness of a forced exile
As such, they had to disappear. Although their aggressor was not making such calculus
« Ahjhhhhh! » They shouted along with others before disappearing from the other's sight
Bang Boom!
Fire came into the group view but this time the barrier came late and the cinders were not made of only leaves. The sound of the explosion didn't quite cover those of panics at the unforeseen attack or the shouts of those that were snatched away by an unseen force
Of the group which counted about a hundred people about 14 of them were suddenly suspended onto the air then violently dragged across the ground in a position lateral to the trail. Their face were ran against the muddy floor, and sometimes collided with nearby trees, at a high speed
At their abduction, the people that remained shouted the names of those that were taken away. Among them
« Subaru kun ! »
« Subaru ! » Shouted both Rem and Emilia, seeing the black-haired butler, being among those that suddenly had his body be moved in ways they could not understand.
The blue-haired maid immediately lept at the sight and began to head for a chase
« Wait Rem I- » the candidate began, only to be cut again
« Emilia sama stay here! It'll be even worse if you get kidnapped too! »Spat rem, before resuming her rush in the direction the boy disappeared « Go to the cave I talked to you about ! »
« Rem wait ! » she began, and wanted to join her in her chase despite warnings, however, the relentless attack of hooded men, even helped by the defense of her spirit kept her from trying especially as everyone else was defenseless
Rem
Those accurse-d cultists
One is in front of me get out of the way!
To dare attack us two times and even- where is the trail?!
Left,right-here let's go
Their stench...I can't bear it. With Subaru, it's endearing and bittersweet. But for them...They are just disgusting.
At least I can follow their trail easily
the only thank they deserve for that is death.
All the while I was jumping and running about I could hear screams and grown of pain but they grew quieter as time goes on. If Subaru is...
I arrive at a clearing at the end of the trail and find a terrifying scene. Several bodies were hanged in the air, some were bent in unnatural ways, beyond saving. I'm sorry. Some were squirming as if strangled, alive, but with numerous bruise on their body
Among them was
« Oi let me go ! »
Subaru
He shouted his rightful, too kind complaint to a sinner in human skin. She dared take the look of a human and cursed our sight with her horrible face by taking off her hood. She had brown freckles as well as buttons on her face, that were of course mismatched. I could have looked further but I didn't need to
Because all she needs to do is die.
I slung my morningstar at her but
suddenly one of the still alive villagers moved in its trajectory, blocking the way
« Arh ! » was their last word, having their head immediately crushed.
I think... I knew her.
She was the one holding the vegetables stand. I never paid much attention to her before
And because of that ...No even if she didn't that's what would have happened. I m the worse.
But I can do one thing still
« hm? »the abomination seemed to finally notice or rather care about my presence « Is it the place of a maid to fight ? You should at least be commended for your perseverance ! »She said, in a sickling fake joy
The bodies around her began to shake around widely following her mad shaking and chuckling. Those monsters are all the same.
« L et them go ! If you need someone take me ! » Subaru shouted
That won't happen
« HM! »She said, extending her ears « Ah but it'd be slothful of me to spare the trials to everyone, even my fellow bishop! »Spouting more nonsense she seemed to deactivate the corpses of the already dead villagers, while bringing the rest close to her body, using them as human shields. Unless she did it for no reason. She did not seem to follow sound logic
I need to attack now. I won't tolerate it any longer
« You you the maid! »
in a fraction of time, her disgusting breath was on my face. But she didn't run to me like a skilled person would have done. No... She was floating, defying everything
« Tell me...What do you think about your little friend's proposal? » As she said that I realized Subaru followed her and was forcer to writhe on the hair helplessly
« DIE ! » I threw a punch at her but she easily evaded it
It doesn't matter one hit is enough
« El Huma! » Numerous Stakes appeared and fired off to her but most were pushed out mysteriously by that ability they seemed to share.
« Ahhh Such a shame your hard work is only directed to harm! If only you were blessed by her love like your little friend. »
Disappear
« Truly Sloth- »
« Shamak ! » Subaru erupted, and with it, black smoke engulfed her and him
Immediately the bodies of the villagers, who were still floating by the apple tree I first found them at. Once they reached the ground they began panting and trying to catch their breath, despite their wounds. One of them a man was looking at one of the dead that was on the floor
One second Subaru rolled on the ground out of that strange spell, his go-to when things turn difficult.
« Subaru -kun ! »
« Ko-Argh !... »
« There's no time. Take the other's and «
« Got it ! » No need for him to finish
I'd rather have her to die...But there are better priorities
So I grabbed Subaru on one hand then jumped towards one of the 3 other survivors « fortunately » all looking rather like
« Hop on Rem's arm ! We are leaving
« But... »
« Rem won't accept but for now! »
I squirted on my legs, grabbed a blonde young woman, and had Subaru hold her, then put another on my back, and the reluctant young man was grabbed with my free arm
The smoke started to dissipate and the screams of the madwoman began to be heard again
«El Huma! » I launched another wave of spikes in her general direction, in order to ensure our escape. Was I alone I would have stayed to ensure her demise but I won't let Subaru's effort go to waste so I jumped out of the small clearing immediately.
Rem
I successfully managed to get everyone-no sadly only 4 people far away from the clearing. On my way back I could find the remains of dead cultists...And of some villagers, about a dozen of them. But Lady Emilia and the knight Felix were nowhere to be seen, so I hurried off to the cave we would have rested in other circumstances.
We knew we have headed the right way because a trail of hooded corpses was occasionally found along the way. That cave was not a place I'd ever been personally to as the only ones I and Garfiel-kun are inside the Sanctuary barrier, which is quite far apart yet. The reason I knew its position was due to the map of the area that I had memorized a long time ago
The temperature around it was abnormally low. As such it made its use as a hiding place more compromised than it already was. However, it could be ignored, as the one guarding the place was Lady Emilia contracted spirit.
« Are you Rem ? » Called out the cat great spirit once we entered the cave proper, in a low voice. « Nevermind it's a stupid question »
I put down the people I was holding on to. I had sweat quite a lot and my dress was shredded in multiple parts. I should have brought gardening protection. Or maybe I should have listened to Subaru and bought different clothes back in the capital.
« Yes Great Spirit Sama, This is Rem. I'm sorry we took so long to get back » I say, doing a light bow
« ...It doesn't matter. Just rest for now » He responds, as I bow again.
Subaru and the others were rubbing their sore members, as well as the cuts on them. Once she saw him and thus Lady Emilia rushed to us. I wasn't really wounded myself, only dirty so I directed her to the others. The knight Felix was on the back of the cave, healing the group that stayed behind. The survivors were mostly unharmed and they didn't seem to have usage wounds. Maybe it was just the depth of Blue's power. I was kind of envious. Their wounds were majorly burnt marks of various gravity, but... For anyone, looking at it, the depth of the sorrow was deeper than all the other wounds. The cave was filled with quiet sobbing.
One of the people I rescued among Subaru, after being healed sat where I was, for a small moment
« Hum... Miss Rem... Thank you for saving me »
« It was nothing. You should rather thank»
« Subaru ? »
I hicced a little as I didn't expect it. Looking at him he had a small chuckle. But his gaze was looking into the void
« I'm sorry...back in the village everyone was joking how you liked him and we like him too...My sister was sometimes gossiping to me about it...
« I'm sorry for your loss »
I thought of myself and of my own relationships. Lord Roswaal, as well as Subaru...If they disappeared so suddenly I wouldn't know what to do. On that day, Mom and dad perished as well. it's all so vague...but I wish I could have them back. They always put me second but their love wasn't fake. I know it wasn't.
Second?But to whom?
I said the only thing that kept me together back in those days
« One day we will bring justice to them. I promise on that »
He looked aghast as if he looked at a ghost
« No... You shouldn't make promises like that. It's ok what you did today is more than I could ever thank you for »
I wanted to retort again but he then stood up and sat in another place, alone, hugging his knee. I was too forward.
But I was serious. I don't want them to get away with it. They can, no need get their comeuppance
As of now, everyone has been healed and we have been in the cave for about an hour. The cave was chilly so some people took out blankets of their possessions and huddled together. There hasn't been any other attack ever since the one we just checked so aside from those standing guards, most took the small respite to try and recover forces, eat a bit, or nap, while some were still processing the recent losses
« We are still far from Sanctuary aren't we ?... »Let out Puck, his eyes not straying from the entrance of the cave
The head maid answered dutifully, although fatigue started to take a toll on her as well
« We...This cave is at about 4 tenths of ...the way. If we continued on the rate we had been going before the attack...We should reach in the morning...but…»
« Yeah. It's impossible »
In theory, Sanctuary is not that far apart from their parting place. In fact had the journey gone smoothly, while they wouldn't have reached the village, they would have most likely got past the entity surrounding it, the forest of Kamaldi and its barrier.
That being said the conditions were far from ideal, as they've been interrupted 2 times, with the latter taking a not small toll in lives as well as energy from everyone.
As such optimistic statements like that were incorrect by default. Because the group was emotionally and physically no longer in peak condition. Even counting on the miracle of no further attacks, those facts won't disappear.
« A more correct estimate...Tomorrow night would be more accurate, wouldn't it be so? » The cat spirit continued, almost talking to himself, but now turned toward the people in the cave.
« Rem thinks... That should be the case ».
« Rem is sorry she can't answer with certainty. Those Freaks of nature...Made things harder they should have been».
The spirit didn't answer to that and began to look at the one he called his daughter. After helping with the healing effort, she had sat away from everyone else however she did not find rest and instead stared at the entrance restlessly, disregarding her own fatigue, which did not spare anyone.
" Dad it's okay. I know we've been pulling up on my reserve for a while now but we'll be okay"
"..."
"I know that they could appear again but we're not going to let them attack us unaware. Besides everyone is getting chilly here…"
"..;"
" You are probably thinking of that night but...I reaaaally can do it" she tried to reassure, putting in the most effort she could muster
"..." The cat spirit sighed again, his gaze darting across the room, then looking outside, at the moon that was now pretty visible in the sky.
"No, I don't think this will do"
The temperature dropped at once on those words. And the girl with silver hair that professed words of confidence was suddenly silent. The reason for this was simple. Suddenly her bottom was touching a cold and wet surface
"Ul Huma"
Underneath her was a massive stake of ice. It was about twice the size of a human being, and despite the size of the cave, it stood out. It was facing towards the entrance at an oblique angle.
"Uh?" Was the only answer she could muster, finding herself instinctively hugging the lump of ice as she felt herself disoriented by the sudden shift of position
She didn't get the time to take any other action. Because she was no longer in the cave. In one instant she was propelled out of the cave, in one fraction of seconds. Like a bullet, she flew into the sky in a direction known only by one being, 4 times faster than a ground dragon ever could
"AAAAAAAAAAAH!" was the only remain of her presence in that cave
As soon as it happened the temperature in the cave dropped down from one level of magnitude. The water vapor inside of it began to condensate, and the droplet of water on the cave surface started crystalizing. As for the people inside, they were left in utter shock and were cackling because of the cold. Wind and mana began to swirl around
One of them reached out
"Puck! What the hell are you doing!"
"..." Was the answer Subaru got. The spirit, simply stood at the entrance like he did a moment ago but his entire aura suddenly changed, becoming as cold as his magic
" That's the only way" was his justification
" I already extended my limit way too much and Lia is still in danger. So I ll just get her out of here"
After this the spirit began to step out, looking in the direction he sent his contractor then looking at his surrounding. As soon as he began stepping out the ground began to show signs of frost
The young man was not satisfied. No, he was simply able to accept this. So he stepped out and followed, with snow beginning to obstruct his eyes
"Yo-u You can-'t Ju-just do that" he tried to convey, as his teeth clashed against each other
This time the spirit turned towards him quicker, rushing face to face
" I can't...Says who?" he said with an empty stare" You? Can you tell me you just don't get dragged to wherever they want you to be and let her be attacked?
He then looked at the cave" Or them? All those people who would still curse her name even should she cut her own limbs for them?"His face contracted with sheer disgust
Then he looked at the sky
" Or maybe that bastard? This guy whose entire life is guided by a single string?The same guy who fails to be there at the time where he is needed? "
Subaru's legs were now enclosed in thin ice, and although he could still move, his reactions were getting slower and slower
" Listen Subaru. I do not hate you. As a matter of fact, I find you quite clownish. But you are still a mortal I don't dislike the presence."
"However for me, you guys are not even close to being a comparable consideration to her"
" On that day I was careless. I should have had insisted on using her odd. I let the safety of the one who truly matters be in your hands only. It's a miracle she's still among us"
His frown lessened and he began to clutch his tight paws
"My promise to her has never and will not change. To protect her and only her. I am on her side no matter what"
"You…" but words died in his frost and he was too busy enduring the frost
"I won't make such a gamble again if I can help it. That's why"
Then he began to elevate himself in the sky, with Subaru looking powerless and at a loss
Then multiple shots of ice were fired in a seemingly random direction. After some time their purpose was revealed: animals, with their head or heart pierced with perfect accuracy, were floating in the air, and were flung toward the cave the puny mortals shivered in, alongside bucket-shaped ice forms holding water...Subaru was no exception and found himself back in the cave where he came from, his only privilege being he was not killed
"Live with that for the time. She'd rather have you survive those ordeals" Said the one who at that point was just a voice
Then the entrance of the cave was obturated by a wall of ice, perfectly espousing the form of the rock tunnel, blocking all intruder entry.
As well as exits.
As the spirit and its owner left, the temperature of the cave slowly but surely began to regain a normal temperature, except the ice around the entrance which was of a high thickness
Some of the more sleepy villagers had fallen into deeper drowsiness due to the brief chilly atmosphere, but they were checked upon and woken up by those that witnessed the abandonment, as the drop in temperature was too short in time to cause lethal hypothermia. Among them was Rem who
At first, no one was talking, as shock filled everyone's mind. Subaru was no exception.
Of course, he had no illusion that the bond between the Great spirit and its mistress left little place for anyone else. By design and by choice the cat spirit rarely was seen interacting or interested in other people than her, the sole exception being Beatrice. Having contracted a spirit himself, although the link was severed in an untimely manner, he had gained a new understanding of how special such a relationship is, although comparing the two would be an insult to the years' long bond the half-elf and the great spirit have.
However, this didn't mean he anticipated the betrayal. He only saw the exclusive bond between the two as a fact of life. To him, it didn't contradict the fact that they were on the same side. And as people on the same tide, they would stick together. This didn't need to be doubted.
That was why his heart screamed with anger and shock. On that latter point only, his feelings were shared by the villagers alongside him. However, their mouth too began to scream
" What the hell was that!" Screamed a man in his thirties
"They just...Those parasites! " stuttered a young woman in the back of the cave
"T ch. Leave it to nobles and monsters to save their tail first " sneered a man named Tom
Some of the more vigorous people got up and began to bang their fist and feet against the ice door, in vain but loudly
"Let us out you filthy monster!"
"Stop the jokes and let us out!"
"Do you just live to let us die, you filthy HALF DEVIL!"
Rage spread out like a wildfire and was the only thing filling the cave . Ideas of resting left everyone's mind, and men and women alike were outraged at the act. Subaru and Rem, who knew the target of indignation better than the other villagers, watched from the sidelines, unsure of their own place in this. As for the knight of the Karsten house he had watched the whole situation unfold, and had yet to speak up his mind, his heavy frown being the only indication of his true disgust
One of them, being among the group banging around the ice door approached the maid and steward duo, who had rapproached. He was older than the group general age range and put his beard in his face, grabbing his shoulders
To that, he had no answer. He didn't know either. And the man knew this. His aggression was superficial and both knew it. But it was stronger than the both of them
The panic filled the cave and everyone had their own way of dealing with it. Some banged at the ice door, before slumping in defeat in front of it, having spent energy they did not have. Some spoke among themselves or out loud, throwing curses at the traitors, at Fate, even their beloved Lord who was nowhere to be seen.
And some simply said nothing, totally out of their depth, or slowly accepting a doom they thought certain
After some time, a few hours would have said anyone if anyone present were capable of such attention, everyone joined that later group.
The day rose after what sounded like an eternity. Half of the cave residents hadn't found sleep, shock, and despair being more efficient than any herbal concoction.
The ice seemingly unchanging nature didn't help either. Due to being of an irregular surface on both sides, light found it hard to enter the outskirt of the rock formation, as such the emergence of the sun was only noticed in what would have been the late morning.
Subaru was among the group that was unable to find sleep, and as such his only "duty" ended up watching over Rem's sleeping form, the exhaustion of the day having had an unexpected toll on her.
Ferris came up to him after having woken up and began healing him silently as if their days at the mansion resumed as normal.
" Why? " was all he could ask
"..." He continued his work seemingly ignoring him
At that display, discomfort began to grow inside him. Or rather all the accumulated discomfort of the past day was repurposed.
"WHY ?" he asked louder "WHY ARE YOU HELPING ME? I BROUGHT YOU ALL INTO THIS SHITHOLE OF A PLACE"
"I COULD HAVE- " He said, loud enough for anyone to hear, or be woken up by
but his rant was interrupted by a simmering pain that seems to come from his core
"Shut up" was the answer of the knight
His eyes had sheer disgust for him, a state he thought he deserved, but didn't understand the origin of
"Your Oh so precious " Just Emilia" abandoned the very people she had to watch over. No more no less. You have nothing to do with this. "
"You got abandoned without even a goodbye and you still try to rewrite history and make it your fault? Must be nice to be a figurehead " was another attack
"Stop kidding yourself. You are just a weak child, like everyone else trapped here. You have done nothing and condemned no one. I am not following any contract here. I just have no reason not to do it." Was his conclusion
His words enraged Subaru even more. Or rather it was the key to the rage that had built up without a vessel
"I don't wanna hear that from someone who did… And take that back"
"Take what? "The cat-like knight sneered
"Stop making it as if Emilia has!" Subaru got up and began to tower over the ex-guest
" Anything to do with this? And so what if she doesn't? That pisses me off even more"
"Let me ask you a question. When in the entire discussion have she contributed in any meaningful ways?"
"Urk!" was his only answer
" That's right. Never." He turned to the now awake villagers, since at that point none care everyone could hear them
" The entire evacuation plan was Yours, and that Great at running spirit! Not one suggestion of hers was used. To begin with, why isn't she the one making them!?" he said, putting his arm down the floor angrily
"What's a candidate who can't even have the only supporters who care about her listen to her? I'll tell you what Subaru. A waste of your time, of mine, of theirs, and a waste of space." was the unforgiving judgment of Ferris
This of course made Subaru enraged. But what he hated more than it
Was that he had no rebuttal. Due to this, he was left to shake in anger, under the gaze of the knight he provoked
As the silence grew, and one side having yielded in all but name Felix sighed.
" Anyway...We can get mad among ourselves all day but that won't advance us a single bit. So let's just call it quit for now can you?"
He extended his arm, in a sight of peace, which Subaru accepted, although uneasily
" So the first order of question is...Do we try to break out or not?"
Saying this he put himself in the center of the room as a way to invite everyone's opinion
"Despite how unwelcome this cat "help " is, it's true that with the level of attack we experienced yesterday, trying again a march with even fewer people able to fight would be perilous. This wall is sturdy I think we can all agree on that. Also… " he trailed, letting his gaze wander to the (dead) elephant in the room: the corpses left as a last gift, who had not started to smell yet
"if we take into account how much we are, and the provision everyone managed to keep while fleeing I think we can keep going for about a week, maybe a week and a half if we're pushing it"
One of the older women of the survivor raised her hand to call for his attention
"Pardon me Sir knight. I know that you are not sworn to our defense but… Would it be possible for you to defend us?"
But the recipient sighed in defeat
"I'm stuck here and I'm also sworn to the people of this country in general so I can make a nyanception but… I don't want you to have too high expectations of me. At my best I can be trouble for a single regular opponent, and I don't die so easily but otherwise, I'm not that better off than the rest of you. If they used the same flaming tactic as yesterday, my best shot will be to reduce everyone's chances of dying"
This put a damper on the slight hope they had, but as he was one of their last good faith allies, laying reproach wouldn't do any good
" But can we even eat those? I'm not used to processing game " said one of the younger survivor, upsetting Felix
"You guys don't have a hunter or anything along those lines?"
"Well we did, but…"
No one needed to hear the last of this sentence
" Sigh...I have some training in that from the time I became a knight so I'll participate…Don't expect excellence though " he said earning quiet "thanks " of the assembly
The lack of proposition afterward was the tacit agreement that they would stay in their hideout, claustrophobia be damned. That situation wasn't wished at all and as such many were walking aimlessly or struggling to stay put in their limited space. However, the perspective of highly probably death outside was the only thing keeping them of clamoring from freedom
The rest of the day everybody helped with the processing of the game, with Rem and Felix distributing the tasks as they were the most competent people still present, who also dealt with the discipline of rationing. Unfortunately few villagers brought salt, so the mist unsavory part had to be consumed first, the rest were dried with Felix water magic.
Sadly despite the mansion staff having brought fire-making tool, the risk of both explosions and lack of air forbade their use so the entrapped had to contend with raw, barely seasoned unsavory game. Unlike a maebeast, the taste was bearable, however even for relatively non-difficult people the awful taste was hard on people used to a more peaceful lifestyle and diet.
Those activities alone took a long part of the day. The advantage of this is that it kept most people from thinking of the losses and of the terrible situation they were in. Subaru was no exception to this as he took it upon himself to pull his own weight and beyond.
However the truth was that even work could not keep him from thinking about it, his lack of focus keeping his "results" average
He thought of recent event of course but also of things he had previously failed to avoid and more generally his thoughts were popping up and disappeared
Among those jumbled thought threads he remembered of the spirit whom his contract has been severed by deaths. In his jumbled mental state he still immediately felt the difference, as the contract etched onto his soul, however, he lacked the forethought to act upon it
When he was more calmed down or rather here, without a purpose he had tried to call it once again, but only other spirits answered his call, not him. He supposed that it was because he was no longer in the same place. Plus who would follow an incapable boy like him? In the jaws of monsters ? He is glad he didn't. He would have failed him too.
Rem, finished with the tasks of the day joined him and sat at his sides, pushing that self-deprecation aside, checking up on him
"Are you tired?"
"That should be my line...Have you recovered?"
"Yes, Rem is fine. She was not injured in the first place only tired so do not worry about me."
" I see… ."In truth, he found it hard to talk in that situation but he hated the awkward silence so he forced himself
" We will be fine" Both said at the same time chuckling at the lie and how predictable it was, which made them less tense.
"I hope that Ram at least got an easier trip than us… Well it's her so I shouldn't say that"'
Rem frowned immediately at this, and began to look at him with a strange look.
"AH AH...Sorry. This was insensitive. But really I just hope she-"
"Subaru-kun… Who are you talking about?."
"Uh?"
He could not make sense of her question.
Of course, the reason was obvious
So after his first reaction, he laughed. Hard. Funniest joke he ever heard. A bit too loud even
"I didn't know you could make jokes like that Rem! I didn't know you were like spider-man !
He chucked and laugher, as it was a new discovery. Whether cold to him or unbelievably on his side she was always someone fun to be around
Sadly it was not one of those times
"Subaru-kun. I don't know what you are referring to; Rem is sorry but please tell me What is a RAM?
All that Subaru could do was widen his eyes and mouth
Subaru
I see now
As a normal teen my age, I never really put many stocks in gods
But I know now they exist. And hate me. And I don't blame them
Rem still looked at me with extreme confusion, despite the fact she, of all people, seriously claim to not know her own beloved sister.
The Rem who killed me because I was a potential danger to her. The Rem who respects her nee-sama above everyone else in this world.
That Rem looks at me with incomprehension as if the name of her sister is a riddle I came up with as a joke
That's not right. I have to be mistaken. I have to have gone finally insane
"Rem. Please Punch me. " I have to snap out of this
" Eh?"
"Please do it! I beg of you"
She looks at me with adorable concern...But I can't focus on that. Reluctant, she still executes.
The hit was hard, probably harder than I wanted although I suppose that's the best she can hold herself back to
" Ok...Rem so I'm sorry if that's getting annoying but that's not a joke. You… " He wanted to punch himself at the stupidity he asked of her "know Ram right?"
But
She still shook her head
" Rem is really sorry. She doesn't know. Is it one person Subaru knows?" She took a concerned expression "If she is one of the victims then…"
"Ah ah….'
That's it I finally gone insane
I'm sorry father, mother. I couldn't even keep myself and others safe, and now I have truly gone insane.
Either I somehow imagined Ram entire existence, or I'm having one of the most sudden mental blocks ever heard
" It's alright it's just someone I met a long time ago ahah" No one would buy that
I'm sure she did not. She is only not asking more for my sake
There's no point in thinking. I can't do anything about it. I'm even insane now so I could trick people into thinking I m actually useful.
I need to make it as simple as possible. At least that way…
Especially to Rem.
I'm not even man enough to address how she feels about me and now i want to burden her with this? Even I can't stop this low
"I m just a little tired that's why I was being weird Ahah… "
"You can sleep in rem laps...I mean her shoulders if you want"
...Yes I'm just hearing things for sure. Whatever is the reality I'm hearing let's just say yes. At least this delusion feels nice
"Th-Thanks" so i " obey" and put myself on her lap. I fall asleep quickly as it was comfortable. At least this one delusion feels nice
….
The next day went more quietly, as most of the necessary survival work has already been done. However, the desperation and stress clearly augmented and the lack of activity caught up to those who had been using it as a distraction. I'm one spoiled enough to have once lived that lifestyle willingly but..being alone in your head is not always good.
It's probably better Beatrice stayed. All I would have gained from convincing her would be to disappoint her in this terrible place too. She would have been just one of us many stuck here, doodling our head, dizzy and without purpose..;
Wait a minute…
Why is everyone looking so dizzy?
I took a second look at the room and saw that people's sluggishness and miss movement wasn't just caused by the fatigue. It was as if we were drunk. But no one had drunk any type alcohol, as it was agreed not to be used early, and reserved for the wounds and the meat. All the bottles were put on full display too. No one had tried to cheat his way out either, as not a single bottle had one drop less than when used practically the last time
I came up to Felix
" Want to throw anyother fit? I don't myind… " He said with evident derision
"Last time was my bad... But it's serious. Don't you think everyone's a bit too...Dizzy and distracted"
He narrowed his eyes and took a hard look at the crowd
" ...Isn't it nyormal in that situation " he answered, trying to dismiss it, however, playful intention left his voice
"I thought about this too… But it's different. I have been tired out of my mind before, and we all have run for our lives a day ago so fatigue is natural but… Here don't you see we are acting disoriented and clumsy as well?"
To be honest I felt my argument was weak
But if I was right…
" Also another thing I have to ask: You remember about the carriage of people that fled elsewhere? "
Felix frowned at this
"Yes, why?"
"So I'm not being crazy here…"
There's no point in wasting time then
"Everyone please listen to me! " I called out to the whole room
They perked up at my request and walked up to me, although with unsure paces
"I'll need to ask you all very specific questions"
Felix
As soon as it seemed I gave him the answer he seemed to want he began to call for everyone's attention. Honestly, i thought it was maybe a delirium but the fact to the matter is that his warnings were correct in predicting the existence of those hostiles out there. So I watched silently
He began to ask every single villager still present about their family, sometimes calling out specific names. Some of them were present here, and some were among the dead of yesterday(in those cases he apologized for twisting the knives.)
He did this with every soul living in this cave. He then marked a tally although I could not figure what system he used to write it
"I see. Thanks, everyone for complying with me."
Then he
Bowed?
"I m really sorry to be speaking out against our group decision… But I think we should leave this cave as soon as possible!" He pleaded, as loud as he could, in a sincere voice
The same he used yesterday to warn about the attack
"What?"
But why?
" What about the cultists?"
Naturally, the very arguments that convinced everyone to stay inside were thrown back at him, although the fact he was considered as one of them made it so their contradiction was not out of anger
"I know it's very sudden! But I think staying in this cave for very long will be very bad for us!"
He then began to point at his tally
"I asked you all about your families that were either present here or in the other refugees' group. No newcomer so it's possible I've made some mistakes, however…
"An important number of you have forgotten people you really shouldn't have!"
His declaration was met with shock and shatter, as the affirmation was deeply disturbing
However, he argued his point. He talked to those he was concerned the most about things about loved ones they should know yet anyone he asked initially denied, before being left with deep confusion on their face as they thought deeper.
Rem was no exception. In fact, as he tried to talk to her about this " Ram" ' sister, she sounded deeply confused as he talked to her about the details of their childhood that he knew. Worse the more she tried to think about it, she clutched her head in pain and seemed almost in tears, and very lost. So lost that she was beginning to panic, so he began to hug her to try to calm her down which seemed to work for a time.
As he gently got her to breathe normally he resumed his talking
"In addition to all that don't, you all have been feeling light lately?"
Which almost everyone nodded, especially the peoples with less massive statures.
"In my homeland, it has been documented that being trapped like this without new air can get people killed without new airs! The more we stay here, and the more our senses will dull, and we might forget more things! If that happens we won't be in good condition to leave in an emergency!"
This left everyone in thought as his logic made sense, although the memory part was the most contentious one. However...
" Still even if we do this how do we even break out? And if we do we may still be hunted" pointed out the eldest man named Ibrom
"well...that…'
Should have known
Really should have
"Rem can do it" she came to his rescue. Not that it was any surprise
I can be nice too...this time. No, the truth is that his argument convinced me as well
"I can soften that wall with water magic. I can't break it down by myself but with enough force, it should be easier
" Ferris?" he called out, before letting out a "thanks"
"That being said they are right about us being vulnerable once we are out. There hadn't been any attempt yet, b ut we know at least one leader is still alive. With our group size, we can't take them lightly"
"about that….Rem thinks Subaru kun can help with that.'
"I can?"
He can?" asked everyone
The day after...
"1"Said a maid with a weapon very ill adapted to her
"2" Continued a knight who questioned his life choice
"3" Chanted the rest of the group in the back, protecting themselves from potential shards,at the back of the cave
"Crack!"
Rem swung her morningstar, square in the center of the ice wall. Felix, standing at the corner of it closed his eyes at the impact, keeping contact with the wall to weaken it.
The impact did not shatter the wall immediately. As it was made as a protective measure it was thicker than ordinary ice. Certainly sturdier than any ice Rem has ever conjured.
However, their combined effort paid off, as by the 10th full-blown strikes the obstacle was no more and in pieces.
But despite the achievement or the soreness, they wasted no time and got everyone to rush outside of the cave, grabbing what they could still transport. Most of the game has been eaten in advance or picked up but some parts were left still as they were too heavy
Once the group was on the onset a black-haired boy breathed deeply
"Here goes…."
He closed his eyes and called for familiar entities. Then after looking at Rem's eyes for reassurance he began to talk to the spirit again, to get his cooperation.
The lessers' spirit name was Garuda, and did not have a gender according to them. They were a wind spirit. But more importantly for the group, it was their safest way out. Their conditions of work were thankfully simple for this temporary task: A promise to being told their stories as well as mana as payment, as the spirit was a traveler and liked the tales of passerby's above everything. Happy to oblige on it, the temporary agreement was given, and Subaru began giving his instructions
It was of course a first for him, both in the magic being used than in the application. But he could not afford to disappoint again.
The trick was one possible by most experienced wind users, although it was often underestimated in its importance: using the dependence of sound upon the air, Subaru commended a small dome over the group: Thanks to the testing done prior in the cave the execution was less amateurish than expected and being tested, it was certified than no sound produced inside could be heard outside, giving the group additional stealth.
Rem did remember that the trick was one Roswaal taught to somebody, although when she tried to remember, all she could envision was an unimpressive person.
At any rate, the small feat allowed the group to travel more safely. Of course, the dome did not impede any other senses so that plan alone wouldn't have felt safe. But this was the best thing to do to reduce risk. They also changed clothes for darker ones but they had to resign to the fact they had no way to be undetectable
Fortunately, unknown to them, their trail was no longer of interest to their enemies, as such, their préparation ended up being sufficient
The group was weary, still hugging their own shoulders, and exhausted from this day's ordeal. The fact the walk was an upward march didn't help matters. However, the group was silent and did make so their panting and steps were as silent as possible
Thankfully they did not encounter lethal opposition again. The help of the small spirit was appreciated in hiding their presence but everyone also make effort not to stand out.
The night was shrouding everything in darkness. However, the moon, although not full, took it upon herself to shine their path
Later her ordeal was helped by torches. Seeing this the group was overjoyed, and losing some of their restraint, forgot their restraint and began rushing through, as much as their tired feet allowed them.
Subaru, walking in the back with Rem and focused to keep the spell online, was still relieved at finally reaching their destination, despite how off the rails, things went.
Once he reached the plaza himself he allowed himself to leave a deep sigh and relax if only for a while. He still needed to find Emilia...and to give a piece of his mind to a certain someone. But he would have to wait for now. Because his body was at its limit. So he let down Rem's sleeping body on one of the make-shift houses in order to take a quick rest. He'll have to bother the resident in the middle of the night for shelter which didn't look like a dead prospect but his mind was too tired to worry about.
The villagers imitated him and sat on the ground at various locations, happy to be in a safe location.
They could hear some footsteps and in other circumstances, they would have feared a repeat attack, but they knew they reached a civilized settlement, so they could only muster some concern
The owner of those footsteps was a young man. He wore an open black jacket, and his yellow hair was spiky and stood out. Those that knew him would know his rough exterior and sharp teeth were not all that defined him
But the villagers were wrong on one thing
« What da y all think ya doin in that village, ya filthy squatters! »
On those words, he stomped on the ground and the peace was broken
They had a reason to be worried.
Showing his sharp teeth to the crowd he then stomped on the ground and the ground would bow to his will