Chapter 1: Post Preview Perspective

Within the confines of a room, a lady sat on a chair, pinching the bridge of her nose as she sighed. The lady had long green hair and an air of aristocracy lingering around her. She was wearing clothing that didn't emphasize her beauty, reflecting more on her authority instead. Her trance was broken by a knock on her door.

"May we come in." A voice asked on the other side, its tone enlaced with worry. Familiar with its source, the lady gave her permission. Opening the door, two figure entered the room: an elder man and a Demi-human boy; both wore clothes indicative of their positions in service to the lady, a butler uniform and a knight's attire, respectively.

"Have nyou rest well, Crusch?" The boy asked as he saw his lady's state, already knowing the answer. He had promised himself to be by Crusch's side, willing to sacrifice everything he had for her sake. He solidified his resolve as he mastered the arts of healing, culminating to his title as the kingdom's greatest healer; a title and expertise that was currently useless in their situation. His lady's worry was not something the boy could simply heal.

Crusch nodded in silence; her stoic expression and steadfast personality couldn't fully hide her roiling emotion within. She gestured the two to sit down, both complying. Encircling the table before them were the three people who represented the Karsten Faction: the candidate for the throne, Duchess Crusch Karsten, the kingdom's greatest healer, Felix Argyle, and the Sword Demon, Wilhelm Trias.

"W-what should we do nyow?" Felix continued as he looked at the two with him; the reveals of the previews and the subsequent discussion shook him to his core. Even though he decided to follow Crusch through thick and thin, Felix wanted to, in some way, alleviate the tribulations his lady faced; tribulations that were currently seen as impossible to overcome.

"We must first calm ourselves and persevere, Felix-dono." Wilhelm replied, speaking more to himself than to Felix. The old man had promised to strengthen his resolve out of respect for the boy who'd given him the chance and success to take revenge on the monstrosity that killed his beloved. Even with that, he was not prepared to what the third preview showed; Subaru was the subject of affection by Satella, the Witch of Envy, her love pervasive and corrupting. Wilhelm, along with the cast, could do nothing but watch as the calamitous entity encompassed the boy.

"Wilhelm is right. We have to compose ourselves first. The previews were…beyond our expectations. And with the discussions afterwards, …without context, we can't be sure." Crusch stated., squinting her eyes as she recalled the events of the previews.

"So…have our plans change with regards to Subaru-kyun?" Felix queried, feeling conflicted. Subaru had proven himself multiple times to Felix, being the key to their success against the White Whale and Petelgeuse. He knew that Subaru, with his Return by Death, could give them an advantage against the Witch and her cult but the boy was, at its core, only human; there was a high chance that he might break his mind due to the severity those monstrosities posed. Felix looked at his clenched fists as he repressed a malicious idea he could use to negate Subaru's mind break: brainwash; an idea that he vehemently tried on a failed loop during Subaru's stay in the Karsten Manor. He was grateful for Emilia for forgiving his transgression, promising to never use it on Subaru again; a promise he vowed to fulfill. But even so, his priority was still Crusch.

Crusch pondered, thinking on what to reply; her feelings and thoughts generally didn't change; but even so, the situation showed within the previews and the discussion afterwards…

"No. Due to the severity of the viewings and the previews shown to us, we have to double our efforts in implementing the plan of integrating Emilia's camp with ours. Priscilla is right, the gears of history are on the move. Events unfathomable are being done; two great Mabeasts slain and a victory against the Witch Cult, elusive for centuries, have occurred. A chance of ridding the plague of terror they sowed for centuries has come to view and Subaru stands as the impetus needed to accomplish it." Crusch answered, a hand balled upon her chest. Wilhelm nodded in agreement with his lady.

"This has become more than the Royal Selection. A coalition will be necessary against the threats we face. We'll need everything to fight against not just the Witch Cult but the Witch herself." The Duchess continued, wincing at the memories of the third preview. Satella had been able to manifest herself, given physical form, to a location within Lugunica. The Witch's feelings aside, the threat her manifestation showed meant that the shackles done to her by the three heroes of yore had been compromised.

"B-but there might be…a chyance that it's just a…fabrication, right?"

"I understand your concern, Felix-dono. But even if that was the case, …"

"We'll have to treat it as an actual occurrence from a failed loop, no matter how…repulsive it is."

Crusch concluded Wilhelm's response to Felix's worry. The cast had discussed a possibility that they oversaw due to the gravity of the viewings, their authenticity. Having been able to capture multiple prominent people, including the Sword Saint, to a dimension that could limit their powers, the Warden had proven himself powerful to be able to alter events. If not for Beatrice's statement and proof of Subaru's self harm, Crusch wouldn't wholly believe what she saw, no matter how heartbreaking the scenes were.

"After the viewings and everything within this space, we will proceed with the plan. Originally, I plan to have Roswaal arrested in grounds of sedition but with the threat Satella and the Witch Cult pose, him being a prisoner will lessen the kingdom's ability to retaliate."

"Indeed, Crusch-sama. We'll need all the help we can get. Due to his lineage and prowess in magic, having the Margrave at his current station will be at the best service to the kingdom; albeit this time, stronger surveillance will be applied to him. That is if he complies."

Wilhelm finished Crusch's statement, both knowing how important Roswaal's participation would be for the upcoming confrontation. The two also knew how much of a double-edged sword the Margrave was if left unattended; therefore, they decided to give Roswaal a choice to either retain his role as Court Mage of the kingdom exclusively or be jailed for his planned act of sedition. Although underhanded in hindsight, this meant that Emilia's benefactor would leave her side regardless of the choice taken. If all things went to plan, Crusch could use the existing alliance between them to integrate Emilia and her camp to the Karsten's camp. Allying with the other candidates would come after.

"I just hope that everything we saw will make sense in the coming viewings." Crusch mused, the two agreeing on her sentiment.

...

...

Within another room, a meeting was being held among four people; a candidate for the throne and her three trusted allies. The four were sitting on chairs circling a square table. On the table were writing implements and scribbled and crumpled papers, consisting of plans and their alteration and rejection.

On the helm of the discussion was a purple-haired lady wearing a white dress, a general theme followed by two others among them; the fourth had a different visage, one that emphasized his built for combat. In attendance were members of the Hoshin Faction: the candidate for the throne, Anastasia Hoshin, and the mercenary captain and vice captains of the Fang of Iron, Ricardo Welkins and the siblings Mimi and Tivey Pearlbaton.

"Boss, that plan wouldn't work due to this and…this."

"I agree. If that's da case, da general plan written here is useless."

Ricardo and Anastasia exchanged opinions as the latter crumpled a paper; its content discarded. The two were formulating a plan and its contingencies, a plan in some way or manner makes Subaru, and in extension the Emilia Camp, integrate with theirs.

"Do we…really have to do this?" Tivey asked as he watched the two. Mimi sat in silence as she played blankly with Anastasia's scarf, her mind in disarray.

Pausing from her formulations, Anastasia glanced at Tivey and gave a wry smile.

"Yes, out 'f necessity. Da situation…had turned fo' worse with that reveal." The candidate answered, hand on her quill.

"But even so, shouldn't we…plan our escape."

"To where? Neither the Witch Cult nor their Witch care for boundaries or fortifications. For us to survive, the safest place we can be is alongside Subaru."

"That is if we are still in the race."

Ricardo and Tivey discussed their views, the latter stating his point. Ricardo and Anastasia grimaced at Tivey's option, knowing what the boy meant; relinquishing their lady's candidacy for the throne.

Anastasia knew the general dangers the candidates had in joining the royal selection, calculated risks against other candidates and external forces bent on disrupting the order of the kingdom; risks she was ready to take action upon…before the reveal of the viewings. She closed her eyes, sighed, before opening them once again.

"Tivey, I have thought about it. Let's say that we follow your plan, that we give up not just on Subaru but also da Royal Selection. After da viewin', the candidates, excludin' me, will race ta safeguard Subaru. Da knights, 'n service ta the kingdom, will apprehend da Margrave; he, although compliant, will have his connection lessen or discard da charges against him. He can spin a tale of the other candidates conspirin' ta overthrow him, leavin' his candidate with no general backin'. A problem on its own, ta be honest." She stated, waving a hand at her final remark.

"Back to us, we will announce my withdrawal to da Royal Selection, statin' da loomin' dangers of da Witch Cult as da reason. Julius will understand, havin' seen and experienced them himself; without us, he can concentrate 'n his duty as a knight. After that, we will go back to Kararagi and be back to business, returning to our lives before da Royal Selection. With da connections we cultivated for da past year here in Lugunica, I can say that overall, we are in da green." She continued, tracing in the air with her finger, as she glanced at the three around her. Silent and attentive, the three looked back at their lady.

"If that's the case,…"

"Tivey, have ya noticed?"

"Noticed what?"

Anastasia interjected Tivey, the latter asking what he'd missed.

"It's one thin' ta attain, it's another ta retain. If da problem we faced is da Witch Cult alone, then I'll have no problem with your plan ta withdraw if worse comes ta worst; I know my priorities as I know my limits." Anastasia explained as she eyed the other three and smiled at them. Mimi gave a faint smile in return as she was patted by her lady.

"But with Satella herself, it changes everythin'. If hearsays with regards to da White Whale are true, what more with da Witch of Envy herself. Her Cult's attacks can be mitigated; da loss accrued on their encounters can be regained."

"On the other hand, Satella when unleashed will be an unstoppable force, one that had consumed half the world before. After seeing her in action and in person within the viewings, …regardless, getting Subaru to our side has become a priority for us."

Ricardo concluded Anastasia's point, stating the increase in severity of the situation with the participation of the Witch of Envy.

"B-but what can he do to…"

"It didn't happen."

"W-what didn't happen?"

Tivey was interrupted by her sister, the latter's eyes widening at an epiphany. He asked her what she'd found out.

"The loop of her appearance in the Sanctuary, Tivey. It didn't happen." Anastasia answered in Mimi's behalf, earning herself a look of clarity from Tivey.

"Y-you're right. If that's the case,…"

"Subaru's ability can undo da worst case scenario, no matter da severity."

Anastasia concluded Tivey's realization, the latter having a hand on his chin.

"We'll need him 'n our side fo' us to survive if da Witch and her Cult attacked. And not through force nor unsavory tricks after everythin' we've seen; It must be through his own volition." She added as the others agreed. The four grimaced as they recalled Subaru's experiences with death.

"But he is loyal to Emilia-sama, who in turn is the reason why the Witch Cult attacks. If we integrate them all with us, won't the trouble fol... ow." Tivey stopped as he massaged the pain in his head inflicted by his sister's staff.

"Tivey, your pessimism isn't good. Don't you know, the more, the merrier. If they join us, we'll be unstoppable." Mimi beamed as she continued, "We can have him bring his inventions to us, I'll have new friends to play with, even Garf will be with us."

Tivey sighed, defeated by his sister's optimism. The other two smiled at the sight before returning on their brainstorming. Raising his hand, Tivey decided to join the two in their planning; a decision the two welcomed. Mimi watched as she hugged her lady's scarf, hoping for their plan to come to fruition.

...

...

"Felt-sama…"

"What, is it wrong for me to be here?"

"I-it's not that b-but…"

"We're just humble maids under the employ of the Margrave. A person of your stature shouldn't be min—"

"Don't even start there. I was a street rat before I got dragged into being a candidate."

Exchanges were made among four people: three were dressed the same in maid outfits and the fourth was wearing a formal dress that exuded nobility. The four were on a room, placed at various locations within the limited space: the brown-haired maid sat on the bed, the other two sat on their chairs in the middle of drinking tea made by the blue-haired maid, and the fourth was standing on the room's singular point of entry, having just entered the room.

"T-then why ar—"

"Hmph, I don't like staying too much with Reinhard…so infuriating; not just him, but everything else…among other things."

The blonde girl interjected the blue-haired maid, scratching her head as she approached the table where the two maids were. The senior of the two maids stood and pulled back a chair, offering it to their visitor. The visitor sat as she watched the brown-haired maid approached the table, sitting herself along with the others. Encircling the table were the candidate for the throne, Felt, and the maids in service to the Margrave, Frederica Baumann, Rem, and Petra Leyte. The four were silent as they looked at each other, unsure of what to say.

"I'm going to get some refreshments for the four of us."

"I-I'll do it, Frederica-neesan."

"…Petra, how about we do it together?"

Sensing the declining ambience within the room, Frederica decided to offer some food and drinks; Petra volunteered to do it in her stead. The older maid compromised as both went to get refreshments. Every room had a cabinet with clear panels, its interior decorated by consumable goods, ranging from fruits and deserts to tea leaves and wines; each part compartmentalized. Another common staple within their lodgings was a small metallic chest next to the food cabinet, housing various tableware and an affixed metia that could produce potable water. The cast concluded a long stay would happen to them when they first noticed these fixtures; grateful that their captor had given them something to satiate their hunger and thirst.

Felt and Rem waited as Frederica and Petra readied the food and drinks. It didn't take long as the two returned, each with a tray in hand, and placed the refreshments on the table. Even though everything was set, none partook on them as the silence returned. The silence didn't last long as Felt stated:

"I'm taking Big Bro and Big Sis with me after the viewing is over."

Direct and blunt, Felt made her declaration. The three maids gawked at the candidate but before any of them could respond, …

"Not only them, but all of you…they won't like it if it's just them. It's just that…I don't want to see them and everyone suffer anymore." She continued as she looked at the three, her expression grim and serious.

"Felt-sama…we are still unde—"

"Under the Margrave's employ, hah. For now, that is. Once we're out, Reinhard will apprehend him. His plan shown in the viewing will be enough to imprison him."

Felt interrupted Rem, the candidate foreseeing possible events after the viewing.

Frederica gazed down as she remembered what her employer did behind the scenes in the Fourth Arc. If the cast already thought ill of the Margrave with the knowledge they currently had, how severe would it become after the following arc? Glancing at Petra, Frederica could see the little maid scowling.

"If that happens, Big Sis's biggest sponsor will be gone. Without proper backing, she…her reach of support will be limited." The blonde candidate continued, choosing her words carefully to avoid unwanted condescension.

"You…want us to integrate to your camp?"

"Yes, I do."

F elt answered Rem's query as she nodded at the maid. Hearing her plan, the three maids gazed down as they contemplated it. Felt watched the three in silence, waiting for their response.

"Felt-sama, have you told Emilia-sama about your plan?" Frederica questioned as she raised her hand.

" Not yet. Big Sis…needed space…after what we've witnessed. And what was discussed." Felt replied, hammering her fist on the table at her final remark. The maids nodded in understanding as they recalled Priscilla's audacious claim. Frederica was glaring at the impudence.

"Frederica-neesan…" Petra uttered, scared by Frederica's animosity.

"My apologies. It seems that I showed something unbefitting of my position." Frederica apologized, bowing at the three, as she composed herself.

"Felt-sama, do you…want us to tell her about your plan in your behalf?"

"No, I'll do it. It has to come from me, after all."

Felt rebutted Rem's suggestion, the candidate shaking her head sideways.

"Felt-sama, if I may ask, why are you telling us this?" Frederica queried.

"My intuition tells me to be upfront. This…this might look preemptive but I know that you all have an inkling of what the future will be, after the viewing." Felt stated. The maids agreed to her sentiment, knowing that the reveal of Subaru's ability and his life within the camp would make him a prime target of interest.

"W-what are you planning to do with them if they join you?" Petra asked, a hand clasped at her chest.

"If they join us? Hmm, Big Bro and Big Sis will become advisors to the camp." Felt replied, pointing a forefinger upward, as she continued, "With his experience and knowledge from another world, Big Bro can introduce suitable inventions and new ways of life foreign and useful to the kingdom. Big Sis could assist him in his endeavor; you all can assist him. You'll all be properly compensated of course…when I'm king."

"But don't you hate being in the Royal Selection?" Petra followed up, hearing Felt's statement from the previous viewing. Being taken against her will, Felt was the only candidate endorsed unwillingly.

"I do, I still do…to some extent. A year of experience and seeing different outlooks can change one's perspective." Felt responded as she sighed.

"So, you'll not let them…fight?"

"No, no, no. Far from it. They save my life and I plan to repay it by saving theirs. No offense, but my camp has Reinhard. He'll do the fighting. Big Bro's curse might be useful but I'll be damned if I use it."

Felt answered Rem's question, stating her vehemence to using Subaru's ability. Roswaal's supposed fate of incarceration after the viewing would not stop the attacks from the Witch Cult. Who else but the Sword Saint could challenge them?

"I-if that's the case,…"

"Petra, it is not our place to answer on behalf of our lady. Especially with regards to matters of great importance."

"S-sorry, Frederica-neesan."

Frederica interrupted Petra, the latter apologizing in turn. As tempting as the offer was of being given a place of solace after the viewing, it was not for them to decide.

"Are there anymore questions? Because if none, I'm going to eat now." Felt stated as she eyed the refreshments on the table. Frederica covered her mouth as smiled at the statement, baring her teeth.

"I guess none. A break will be in order, then." The blonde maid replied, seeing none voicing their queries. The others agreed as they partook on the food and drinks on the table.

...

...

"…and that's what happen, da mansion had been burned to da ground. Elsa was killed 'nd her partner, Meili, was captured by my sister."

"After the pink light pierced through the remains of the mansion and left to the direction of the Sanctuary, we knew Natsuki-san had succeeded. What's left after were the events at the Sanctuary, against the Great Rabbit and the Margrave."

'W-wow…"

"…Subaru really did it."

Four people were talking among each other, each placed within different parts of the limited space: three were sitting on chairs as they rest their arms on the table while the fourth was getting some food in the room's allotted food cabinet. Two of the three sitting wore similar attires that symbolized their duty and loyalty as knights not only to the candidate they followed but also to the kingdom they served; the third wore clothing that reflected his dream profession, one that was put on hold due to his circumstances. The one getting some food wore limited clothing, choosing maneuverability over style.

As the fourth rejoined the three, the two knights urged the other two to continue. Sitting around the table were Felt's knight Reinhard van Astrea, Anastasia's knight Julius Juukulius, and Emilia's representatives Otto Suwen and Garfiel Tinsel.

"Unfortunately the events that happened immediately after were not witnessed by both of us. Everything was over by the time we arrived." Otto answered, to the dismay of Reinhard and Julius.

After the previews, Julius decided to ask Garfiel and Otto with regards to the events that occurred within the Sanctuary. The two were reluctant at first but relented after the knight's pleading. After setting some conditions: privacy on personal matters, no confrontation with the Margrave after the events had been told until his machinations were revealed at the viewings, no divulging of the information to be told unless revealed in the viewings, and if pressed, not telling that they were the ones who told the story; Otto and Garfiel told their recollection of the events a year ago. Reinhard later joined the three after being left by his lady, the two retelling their tale for him.

"And after that?" Julius asked, his eyes filled with anticipation.

"We had some discussion with that bastard when we arrived. Through some roughhousin'…among other things, we made compromises. Da Cap'n told us that bastard is an essential part of da camp, bein' its major backer." Garfiel replied as he punched his open palm.

"A major backer that will be imprisoned after the viewings, hah." Otto facepalmed, knowing the undeniable and impending fate the Margrave will face after the viewings. The two knights nodded.

"Indeed. Julius and I are Royal Knights in service of the Kingdom of Lugunica. The Margrave's transgression as seen in the viewings, in addition to what he did to all of you, cannot go unpunished."

"This might seem underhanded since Reinhard and I serve different candidates but Roswaal-sama must be apprehended. There might be a chance that he will hurt all of you once again in the future."

Reinhard and Julius voiced their opinion; both concerned about the safety of everyone within the Emilia Camp. The Otto and Julius agreed.

"I understand your concerns. But with regards to the Margrave hurting us, there is already an effective deterrent that exists. Due to the bet he and Natsuki-san made; Roswaal-sama is under oath not to pursue such endeavors to us without him facing…fatal consequences."

"Yeah, da oath runs deep."

Otto and Garfiel replied, the latter crossing his arms.

"Even so, for you to work with him for an entire year… had you forgive hi—"

"I don't. After everything he's done to Natsuki-san, forgiveness is not an option I'd like to give the Margrave."

The ashen merchant interrupted the Spirit Knight, Garfiel agreeing at the former's sentiment.

"Otto-bro is right. As much as I like ta beat him ta a pulp, da bastard is needed for Emilia-sama's run for candidacy. Without him…"

"The reach of influence our lady has will be limited; same goes with our resources and manpower."

Otto concluded Garfiel's statement, the two cementing the importance of the Margrave to the camp. Conniving as he was, the Margrave held political power that could be used to bolster Emilia in the Royal Selection. Otto sighed that this factor would be relinquished from his lady's camp, reasonably so. But even then…

"We'll have to persevere with what's remaining. Fortunately, most of the major achievements under our camp belongs to Natsuki-san; a fact that won't be tarnished much due to the Margrave's incarceration." Otto continued as Garfiel agreed.

"So…you're still planning to let Emilia-sama participate in the Royal Selection?" Julius queried. The other three looked at him with puzzled expressions.

"Why not? Da bastard bein' taken out won't stop us. Da Cap'n had promised me ta show da vastness of da world, widen my horizon. An expansion ta a suitable place for Granny and da others, a Sanctuary bigger than before." Garfiel stated, balling a fist to his chest, as he grinned.

"Indeed, the Margrave's absence will be detrimental to the camp. But it won't be the end of Emilia-sama's run. Just because you're on the ropes, doesn't mean it's over. Believe me, I know." Otto added as he pointed to himself with his thumb.

"Is it…is it really important for Emilia-sama to run for the throne? Isn't she coerced by the Margrave, in accordance to his tome?" Reinhard asked, deciding to withhold in stating his lady's plan.

"Reinhard-san, I mean this with no disrespect, but haven't you done the same with Felt-sama?"

"Even I have to agree with him on that, Reinhard."

Julius added onto Otto's rebuttal, the Sword Saint wincing at the recollection. Reinhard regretted on acting callously during the reveal of his lady's candidacy at the loot house but he had an obligation to fulfill.

"Regardless, after the viewing, we'll be rivals for the throne once again." Otto stated, sighing. Looking at the knights, he continued, "I just hoped that you won't do anything rash against us, having our general backer incarcerated and our friend becoming a person of interest."

Otto-bro is right. We already have an inklin' of what da other candidates are plannin' in general. Other than that bitch in red, you all are alright and have da Cap'n's best interest in mind, same with us." Garfiel added as he gazed at the two knights, the two nodding in understanding.

"Don't worry. My lady, Felt-sama, owed her life to Subaru and Emilia-sama. The last thing we will want to do is harm them, and you all by extension."

"Indeed, Anastasia-sama might have her…eccentricities but she is a good lady with a strong sense of duty overall. She isn't as greedy as it seems to use heinous means. Ricardo and I will make sure of that."

Reinhard and Julius assured the two.

"Thanks once again for indulging us of the events. As promised, we will hide the fact that you've told us." Julius continued as he bowed, Reinhard following suit.

'Don't worry about it, Julius-san. But seriously, don't spread the fact that we told you or else, Ram-san will punish us." Otto replied, shuddering at his final remark. Garfiel flinched upon hearing Ram's name. The two knights nodded, worried for their friends.

...

...

"Umm…Beatrice-chan, w-why are you here?"

"Hmm, to heal you, I suppose."

A drill-tailed blonde girl answered her companion's question, the latter waking up in disarray and vaguely recognizing the girl before her. The two were on a bed, one was sitting and the other was lying on it. The drill-tailed blonde girl wore a pink dress that highlighted her cuteness while her companion wore a purple and white outfit that would emphasize her innocence, if not for its current state.

The bed itself was a mess. Its bed sheet crumpled and a single pillow and the blanket thrown to the floor. The room itself was a mess. Two of the four allotted chairs were toppled over. a dent was made on the metallic chest housing the tableware, same with the table. Her companion herself was a mess. Her long silver hair disheveled, same with her clothes. A minutely wet stain could be felt near her face, maroon in hue. Her face was unkempt, dried tears and blood were apparent on her reddened face, her cheeks marked with scratch marks.

The girl sighed at the view, not letting her seething emotion surface, not yet. Healing the silver-haired lady was the priority. Her palms lit blue as she placed them over the lady's chest; no physical contact was made. The girl decided to stabilize the lady's breathing before anything else.

Using an arm as a support, the lady slowly came to her senses as she rose on her side. Remembering what she did before, she looked at her other hand, its nails red in hue. The lady started panting and was about to grab her face when a hand held hers.

"Can you not, in fact." The girl stated, her tone stern and enlaced with caged anger. The silver-haired lady shuddered at the voice, uncharacteristic of the figure before her. She started sniffling as she sat straight, letting the drill-tailed girl do her healing. Sitting on the messy bed were the candidate for the throne, Emilia, and the Great Spirit, Beatrice.

"Are you feeling better…is not the right question, I suppose. Have you composed yourself, in fact?" Beatrice asked. Emilia nodded in silence. Beatrice sighed at the lack of verbal response and started to heal her face when Emilia stopped her.

"I can't heal you if you won't let me, I suppose. Remove your hands, in fact." Beatrice ordered. Emilia didn't relent, stopping the Great Spirit the best she could without hurting her. Beatrice scowled at her actions.

"So, you're acting like my contractor, aren't you?" Beatrice stated scornfully. Emilia gaped as she was taken aback by the Great Spirit's statement. Seeing her opening, Beatrice grabbed Emilia's cheeks with her glowing hands to commence her healing.

"W-why…"

"Mother once taught me that a complete question is necessary to get a better response, in fact."

"Why are you doing this?"

"Not complete enough, I suppose."

"Why are you healing me? This, this face must be—"

"I advise you not to finish that sentence, I suppose. It won't be a good story to tell Subaru later on, in fact."

"Y-you're telling Subaru?"

"Not all but enough for him to worry, I suppose. With his secrets lay bare, it will be disrespectful for me not to do the same for him…in fact."

The two exchanged between themselves, the Great Spirit having the final say. With no good rebuttal, Emilia sat in silence as Beatrice healed her wounds. Not long after, Beatrice removed her hands to reveal Emilia's face clear of any blemishes.

"Are you ready to talk?" Beatrice asked. Emilia winced but nodded in confirmation, knowing that there was no running away from her queries. But before that…

"H-how…did you get in? I was sure that I locked the door." The half-elf asked. Beatrice sighed at the question as she looked up.

"You did, I suppose. I asked for his assistance, in fact." Beatrice replied as she pointed upwards. Emilia was perplexed until understanding set in.

"Th-the Warden. He sent you here?"

"Not exactly, I suppose. I foresee your actions, in fact. I'm used to it."

Beatrice answered Emilia's query, the former gazing down at her own final remark. The half-elf flinched knowing what it connoted.

"S-so, I'm…acting like…Subaru, is what you're s-saying?" Emilia questioned grimly. Beatrice squinted at Emilia; her silence alone answered enough.

"W-was it always l-like this?" She continued; once again faced with silence, not out of disrespect but of confirmation. Emilia grimaced.

"Th-then why, why did y-you let him do that, harm himself? Why didn't you stop him?"

"Do you think that I didn't try, I suppose?! That I just stood there and let him do that, in fact! The person I cherished the most, the person I've chosen!"

Beatrice refuted Emilia's insinuation, appalled by the audacity of the half-elf. She stood up as she glowered at Emillia, her eyes welling in tears.

"I've tried, I suppose. I've tried and tried, in fact. But the nightmares return. Subaru…cries himself to sleep…without me giving him my hand, holding his to prove that he isn't alone, in fact. He…he needed something…something to take his mind off…the nightmares, I suppose. He made me promised…p-promised to compromise…" She continued, her voice broken, as she sobbed. Emilia instinctively patted the Great Spirit as she squinted; no tears could be shed as she had cried it all earlier.

"How ironic, I suppose, to think that I am the one being comforted. It should be the other way around, in fact." Beatrice sniffled, wiping the tears away, as she regained her composure. Emilia patted the Great Spirit as she nodded.

"It seems so." Emilia muttered; her expression forlorn.

"Now, about that talk that we got sidetracked from, I suppose. Being direct and blunt to another's trouble of the heart is my contractor's way of doing things, in fact. As his Great Spirit, it is my duty to do it in his behalf during his absence." Beatrice declared. Emilia gave a wry smile at her statement, remembering the times Subaru's bluntness saved her and others from the metaphorical imprisonment within their hearts.

"Is it about the previews we've watched and the following discussions, I suppose?" The Great Spirit continued. Emilia winced at the bluntness of the question, her reaction confirming Beatrice's conjecture.

"Hmm, with regards to the previews, their authenticity is still debatable, I suppose. Our captor is as enigmatic as he is omnipotent, in fact. Without proper context in its entirety, every preview can be deemed as fake, no matter how severe and realistic the scenes are." Beatrice explained, trying to lift the half-elf's spirit.

Emilia reluctantly nodded, half in hope, half in worry, as she clasped a hand to her chest.

"And with regards to the discussions, the loops showed to us from the past three arcs are connected, I suppose. All of which are essential, in my opinion; none can be fabricated. I believe the possibility of his loops being removed from the viewing more than some being fabricated, in fact. The loops are unbelievably few compared to the severity of the tribulations he faced…I suppose." Beatrice continued. Emilia nodded again as she listened silently to the Great Spirit.

"And with regards to…the time travel theories in general, unfortunately, nothing is certain, I suppose. One thing is for sure, you're not Satella, in fact." Beatrice stated.

"H-how can you say th—"

"I've met her before, four centuries ago, in fact. When she was…normal is not the right word, neither is sane…still not the Witch of Envy, I suppose."

Beatrice interrupted Emilia, the latter gawking at the Great Spirit.

"Y-you've met…Satella?" Emilia asked, surprised at the revelation.

"I'm a confidant of my Mother, the benevolent Witch of Greed, in fact. I'm always assisting her on her journey across the world, giving and receiving knowledge, I suppose." Beatrice responded, a glint of nostalgia in her eyes.

"One of the organizations we've met during the time is the Witch Cult, I suppose. Take note, the Witch Cult from centuries ago is different from the Witch Cult that currently operates, in fact. They were much, much more approachable than they are now. Satella was a major part of the cult." She continued. Emilia nodded as she remembered Geuse and the cultists he led, peaceful people assisting her home back in Elior Forest.

"W-what's her role in the Witch Cult?" Emilia queried; her interest piqued at the information being revealed.

"I can't divulge, I suppose. I've made a promise with Mother, in fact." Beatrice answered as she looked aside.

"Don't worry, it's just a question. Promises are really impo—" Emilia stopped, her cheeks reddening in embarrassment, as her stomach's grumbling could be heard. Beatrice facepalmed as she hopped down the bed. Going to the food cabinet, she looked back at Emilia and stated:

"Eat, I suppose. You will not want the others to hear that abruptly, in fact."

Emilia nodded meekly as she stood up and fixed herself. Many questions and doubts still clouded the half-elf's mind; both needed clearing. But for now, she would eat her fill. Beatrice sighed as she gave a small smile, happy that Emilia was not hurting anymore.

...

...

A spacious room housed rows of seats, all facing a giant screen. A single point of entry was located at the wall opposite the screen, indicated by a set of double doors. Within its confines were three people, one was slumbering alone and unattended, located at the center of the front row. The other two sat at the rearmost row, overlooking the majority of the room, overlooking the sleeping boy.

A man and a girl sat side by side taking the near empty scenery before them. The man wore peculiar clothing and makeup while the girl wore a maid's attire. The two were in a hierarchal relationship, one between a master and servant. Sitting at the rear were the Margrave Roswaal L. Mathers and his confidant, Ram.

"It seems we're not the first in the theatre, princess." A voice stated, masculine in tone, its source entering the room.

Entering the theatre were two figures, a red blonde-haired lady and a helmeted man. The lady wore a crimson dress that emanated her radiance, the man behind her wearing clothes unbefitting of his title, looking more like an eccentric bandit than a knight in service to his lady.

The lady gazed down at the two sitting as she continued to her seat, the knight walking behind her. Joining Roswaal and Ram were the candidate for the throne, Priscilla Barielle, and her knight, Aldebaran.

"The o~thers seem to be taking some time to take in what they've seen, rea~sonably so." Roswaal responded to Al, looking at the two, as he continued, "The vie~wings we saw were…too much, to state the least."

Al agreed as he sighed, remembering the previews they saw.

"Or they might be planning on what to do to that boy and the others once you're out of the picture, Clown. How sardonic that your machinations be undone at such manner, for all to see." Priscilla added as she pointed at Subaru.

"Priscilla-sama, I advise you not to disrespect Roswaal-sama." Ram stated, her tone stern, as she glared at the fiery candidate.

"Ha. Clown, leash your pet. Her animosity is a stench that irates my nose." Priscilla spatted in turn, glancing sideways at the Margrave. Irked by the statement, Ram was about to stand when a hand grabbed her shoulder.

"I suppose so. Ecce~ntric as I am, baffling as I look, condemned as I maybe, doesn't mean that I'll forego my manners. My apo~logies…Ram. It seems that shallow nobility doesn't ingrain proper demeanor. How inappro~priate." Roswaal said as he looked at Priscilla, the latter knitting a brow at his response. Ram's eyes widened, a shade of light pink rising on her cheeks, as she heard Roswaal's statement.

"P-Princess…" Al uttered moving back, sensing the animosity from his lady.

"Ho? It seems that you're not just a clown. With the menagerie you have, you're the entire circus." Priscilla stated as she glowered at the two.

"If be~ing right can be seen as something funny, then you~'ll be the most serious person in the world, Priscilla-sama." Roswaal replied. The Margrave and the candidate glared at each other; Al and Ram ready to assist their respective master. Al had his hand on the hilt of his blade as Ram held her wand.

"A fight is not something we should be doing right now."

"Don't worry. They're nyot even serious about it…yet. If they are, the Warden would have stopped them nyalready."

A pair of voice stated their opinions, their sources overseeing the situation between Priscilla and Roswaal. Three people had entered the theatre: Crusch, Felix, and Wilhelm.

"The Fourth Arc will soon begin. I suggest you all discipline yourselves, everyone." Crusch stated as she stopped at the entrance, Wilhelm and Felix stopping alongside her.

"And who are you to order me?" Priscilla retorted as she glared at the Duchess.

"Someone with a head on her shoulders, nya. Nyou couldn't relate?" Felix snarked in defense of his lady.

The ambience within the theatre worsened as Priscilla glowered at Roswaal and Crusch, her aura emanating hostility. Al instinctively moved away from his lady. Wilhelm held the hilt of his sword, readying himself for the worse.

"Rejoice, Clown. Your execution will be earlier than expected."

"How unfo~rtunate, to have delu~sions of grandeur limiting your view. How blu~rry can your ego be."

Priscilla and Roswaal stated, the former balling her fists.

"You can't summon your sword, Priscilla-sama. Fighting me without a weapon will be…unwise." The Margrave said as he raised his hands, palms facing up, at his sides. The lack of his verbal quirk connoted his seriousness on the matter.

"Do not think my use of the Yang Sword as a sign of dependency on it, Clown. Myself will suffice." Priscilla responded.

"Roswaal-sama…"

"Ram, stay back."

"Princess…"

"Al, move back."

Roswaal and Priscilla ordered Ram and Al to not interfere. The two relented as they retreated, the maid glaring at Priscilla.

"Crusch-sama… what's happening?"

"Ram, what's goin' on."

Otto and Garfiel asked as they entered the theatre, seeing the unfolding scene before them.

"Garfiel-dono, I ask for your assistance to mitigate the battle that's about to commence." Wilhelm stated, not waiting for the Warden to act. Even without context, Otto and Garfiel knew that the situation had to be stopped. Garfiel nodded and alongside Wilhelm, was about to intervene when a foreign aura enveloped the theatre. Everyone immediately surveilled their surrounding wary of any unexpected factor that would arise.

"W-what is that?" Al pointed as a new fixture appeared in thin air, a white double door stood in between the screen and Subaru. The door stood unconnected to any wall, only supported by its jamb. The anomaly being near the sleeping Subaru, Crusch sprinted towards the boy followed by Garfiel and Felix. Although their interest was piqued by the door, Roswaal and Priscilla gazed back at each other. Otto, Wilhelm, Al, and Ram stood in anticipation, wary of the general situation.

Notes: A two parter (hopefully), have to divide it due to the chopped perspectives.

Addendum: Added Spacers (...) for changing scene (hopefully it works)