Chapter 7

Author's note: One last chapter for the wrath-if reactions remain! Lol, I could even beat Regulus with all of this dialogue.

The screen started.

Pandemonium quaked continuously. Vigorous shocks and tremors, the aftershocks of the fight were even felt in Emilia's private quarters. The light hanging from the ceiling was swaying and dust was falling from the ceiling. While lying in bed, Emilia was forced to make a choice.

"..."

To stay there, that was what had been said to her.

Or perhaps it had been more of a plea, such as, 'Please stay.'

"Hm? So someone told Onee-chan to stay there? Wrathbaru is busy running, most of the mercenaries are dead, and his most powerful employees are busy. I doubt this person told Onee-chan to stay, after the battle started. And there is no way that Wrathbaru would have enough leeway to pay his princess a visit." Scrunching her face in thought, Felt said.

"So it must have happened before the battle started, meaning that this person knew about it beforehand. More than anything, to be able to convey this message to Emilia-sama, this person must have been granted access to her cage. No matter how I think about it, this person has to be that internal spy we were talking about. The one who has been leaking information to the outside." Anastasia said. " The only person left in Wrathbaru's group, the one who has access to his princess's cage and a great reason for rebellion, is….." Her eyes trailed towards one person. A blond hair demi-human.

"Eh? Me?!" Frederica said, her eyes widened in disbelief. However, with her knack for quick perception, she was able to quickly figure out the connections. "Yes, if we think about it carefully, then we can realize that Emilia-sama would still have a need for a maid, a caretaker. One who has been granted access to her cage. And seeing how Wrathbaru resolutely refused Halibel-san, he is not the one. Cecilus is out of the question, which also eliminates any other employee. This only leaves one other person, which is me."

"As expected of Frederica-san," Rem said with a sad smile. "It appears you were able to take the necessary action to protect your family."

"Protect your family?! Doesn't this put them in worse danger?!" Petra said.

"No, if I had to say then, Frederica-san made the right decision here." Otto said, making Petra tilt her head in response. "There was no way she could continue to protect her family, considering the state that Wrathbaru is in. One flip of the coin, or a single seed of doubt, could end up leading to a death sentence. Continuing like that without taking any action, would be like walking on a thin rope. But with assurance in the form of the Sword saint, even a scared and subjugated person would be willing to take the risk."

"I thank you for your kind praises, Otto-sama," Frederica said. Otto scratched his head and then another person expressed their voice.

"When ruling with fear, one must make sure to not use it too much. A quote from a great Vollachian book." Priscilla said. "When people get too scared, they act recklessly and without care. When it gets to that level of fear, only action is the antidote. Seeing no other way out, that maid was forced to act, leading to this. It is incredible, how the story gave early hints and foreshadowing for this. An interesting play indeed."

"Well, Frederica-san did have the most freedom in the castle, when you think about it. She was most likely allowed in the Princess room, and the other places of the castle." Anastasia said. "The purge King seemed to have overlooked this. Though, it also doesn't seem like he had any intention of fighting in the first place. It wasn't that he was lax and lazy about it, rather that he did not care."

Should she wait, believing those words? Or should she rush out in haste?

Her inner thoughts about the situation lost in revolution, she continued to postpone the decision. However,

"-Lia, the end has come."

"Eh.."

Puck spoke to her, lying in bed while the battle continued to shake the castle. Her amethyst eyes trembling as they gazed upwards, Puck sniffed with his tiny nose and crossed his arms together.

"Bubby's senses are as amazing as ever. He was even able to sense Tosca way before Betty could." Beatrice said, crossing her arms in a similar manner to her brother.

Hearing that it was the end, Emilia gulped.

Yet again, she had been unable to do anything.

Putting off making a choice, then accepting the consequence of not making a choice. That it was a cowardly act, she somehow understood.

She had once again, deferred her stance to Subaru-

"-Reinhardt's here. It's Subaru's defeat."

"-"

Hearing that, her thoughts froze.

"Ahh."

Unable to form thoughts or words, Emilia opened her eyes wide.

Even hearing that it was the end, Emilia had been certain about Subaru's victory. That she never for a moment doubted it, she had only just realized it.

Natsuki Subaru would not be defeated.

No matter what the opponent, with his selfless excuses, his tenacity, and his abuse of misanthropy, he would always grasp victory. With all under his control, manipulating all subordinates he could think of, no matter the opponent, they would be annihilated.

And, when tired of thinking, and needing to find peace, he would come to Emilia.

That he would definitely come to Emilia, she had been believing that.

"So Emilia-sama became used to his visits, huh," Rem said. "It is interesting that despite having seen Renhardt-sama's strength, she still believed that Wrathbaru would win. Though, maybe that belief was shaken after she learned of the Sword saint's arrival."

"Though not for this Wrathbaru, I do agree that my captain is invincible! He would definitely win, no matter the opponent! You hear that, Sword saint?!" For whatever reason, Garfiel had a sort of envy towards the sword saint. Along with that was an overbearing doubt, a doubt about his own capabilities. Even Reinhardt's smiling nod was infuriating to him. But with a click of his tongue, he looked away.

"Hm, this Wrathbaru has already been defeated." Priscilla said.

"Huh? Princess, is it because the sword saint is here? Well I do agree that it would not be possible to fight him here. Maybe after escaping he could figure something out. But pal hasn't lost yet—-"

"Silence, Al. He had already lost, because he never actually escaped from the mansion."

"What?! What the hell are you on about—-" Felt's words were cut off by Priscilla, who raised her hand to stop her.

"If it's his life we are talking about, then yes, he did preserve it by escaping from the mansion. And I am not suggesting that decision itself to be a bad thing. It is natural for an animal in danger to seek out survival. In fact, him jumping off the cliff was the true abnormality."

"-" Ram gritted her teeth, desperately wanting to refute that part. That declaration from Priscilla, stung deep. It made her feel like Barusu should not have sacrificed himself for them. It made her feel like they weren't worth even one of his lives.

"But he carried it all with him. All that hate, grief, doubt, hostility, anger, and everything else from that mansion. By not being patient, by not trying one more time, he had already given up all hope. The fact that the red oni chased him all the way. The fact that he was not able to find any other method, other than giving in to his doubt. That first scene exemplified the fact that he had never truly escaped from that place. Even now, he is stuck in it, imagining the entire world to be the same as that mansion. Imagining everyone to have the same two-faced personality like the Onis. And though he has gone through scarring events in that arc, it was him who closed the door to hope."

"..." Ram hung down her head, a huge wave of grief traveling to her, originating from her sister's link with her. History repeated itself. In a similar manner to Wrathbaru, the two onis had never really survived from the massacre in their village. Ram had obsessively clung onto Roswall, turning her loss into obsession. Rem's self-doubt consumed her, turning her into a hateful mess of a person. And it was only thanks to Subaru's sacrifice at the cliff, that a new path was beginning to open for both of them.

It's like Priscilla had said. The Purge King still lived his life in that mansion, grasping onto straws and trying to escape. Yet, it was him who was blocking his own way.

"Until today, I've never rushed Lia's choices. But that can't be done anymore. You have to make a decision."

"To make a decision…"

"Do you prefer staying here, or leaving here?"

"Huh, well that is surprising." Crusch said. Emilia nodded to that.

"Indeed, I would expect him to just forcefully pull her out of there." Julius said. "For him, his daughter's safety should be the highest priority. So, like he has done so far, he could just take her without permission. But instead, he is leaving her with the power to decide for herself."

"The only explanation I could put together is that he has realized that Emilia-sama has become dependent on Wrathbaru's existence. Even his expression appears different than usual." Crusch said.

To what extent did he know, for in that plain Puck's voice was conviction.

Puck gazed down at Emilia tightly grasping up her sheets. His usual aloof expression was completely gone, replaced by compassion for his beloved child.

At a dear child that had lost its way and was anxious about the road ahead, a parent's eyes were directed.

"It looks like, all this time, Subaru has been controlling information properly. There isn't any sign of Lia being involved with the organization's activities. Well, Lia really wasn't involved at all, but having been with them for so long, some people with suspicion would show up for sure. This was a necessary precaution."

"Wasn't involved at all? Then, what kind of a position was I in?"

"From Roswall's mansion, you were kidnapped and locked away. That's how they are treating you. Then those children attempting to destroy Pandemonium right now, seem more like rescuers who came for you."

At that unexpected explanation, Emilia was stunned.

"So they went for that angle. Now it makes sense why the sword saint did not just destroy the entire castle." Roswall said, nodding his head. "From what we saw in that 2nd trial at the sanctuary, the dragon sword Reid appeared to be capable of destroying quite a bit of space. With the swordplay of the sword saint, coupled with the dragon sword, one slash would be enough to decimate the entire palace."

"Great information control indeed," Anastasia said.

That Emilia had been brought out of the mansion, against her will, was true. And that she had been angered at Subaru, disliking him for it, was also true.

However, she had not refused that clinging, pleading Subaru. It was likewise correct that she had overlooked the fact that he had been doing his utmost to protect the time he spent with Emilia.

"That statement…stings.." Emilia said, clenching her fists. "Not just Wrathbaru's timeline, but even in this timeline Subaru has been doing his utmost to protect me, to protect us. Just how do I get rid of this naiveness…."

"Fu, what an obvious sentiment coming from your mouth." Priscilla smirked. "Because you are a kid when it comes to your mental age, I guess it's natural for you to be so artless. Even now, your other self can't even decide what to have for dinner."

Emilia puffed her cheeks, muttering, "I can decide my dinner at least." Then looking towards Priscilla, she said, "Just why do you keep picking on me? If it's about my incompetence, then I agree and understand that very well. But just how long are you going to repeat that, over and over? Or is there something else…."

"Isn't it obvious?"

"Hm?"

"You are completely uninteresting to mineself. That's it."

Emilia's eyes thinned at that, her jaw opening in disbelief. Everybody shut their eyes in exasperation. At the same time, a part of them thought that such a reason was completely natural for someone like Priscilla. Though bullying someone because they are too boring, is something completely beyond commonsense.

And yet despite that, could it really be said that Emilia was wholly unrelated to how things were?

Wouldn't arguing that just be the peak of shamelessness?

"That wouldn't really be shameless." Felt said. "Onee-chan was related to the mansion's events, but she was unaware of everything that transpired. We could go around saying, 'You could have done better.' But that applies to everybody. Anyone and everyone could have done something more, something better. Despite that, this reason isn't really a good one to utilize in blaming someone and pointing fingers."

"I completely agree, Felt-sama. I am glad to see my master grow wiser." Reinhard said, to which Felt groaned in annoyance. "If we are talking about the organization's activities, then Emilia-sama is innocent of them. If she continues to stay at that place, then there would be no room for doubt. However, if we talk about being connected to the underworld boss, then Emilia-sama does have that relation. That in itself, won't be good evidence to judge someone on."

"Well she won't be able to join back in the royal selection. But she would be put in protective custody." Anastasia said. "I really am shocked that her spirit would let go of that opportunity, and let Emilia decide for herself. I do wonder what she will do now…."

Emilia turned away from her gaze, biting her lips softly. For her, a small desire had blossomed in her heart. A desire brought out of feelings that she did not comprehend. She wished that she could be like Otto, who had disconnected himself from this if-story. She wished that she could be like the others, who could keep a clear distinction between Wrathbaru and Subaru. However, the crying heart of Wrathbaru affected her deeply. She did not want to abandon this Subaru, even if he did all of these crimes.

It wasn't because she felt responsible, or because she thought that it was the 'right' thing to do. It was simply because her heart would ache, should her other self abandon him.

"Lia, if you just wait here nicely, like a poor princess, your rescuers will save you. But…"

While speaking as if they were whispering, Puck landed on her thin shoulders. And then, with that cat spirit nearing her cheek, Emilia painfully comprehended the unspoken continuation of his words.

She would be rescued as a victim, should she wait here.

However, if she left by herself, then she would become a perpetrator who had been acting on her own free will.

Faced with that fact, there was not even a moment of hesitation.

"..."

Rising, Emilia put her hand on that white room's only door.

"Yes!" "Yes!"

Two people, Emilia and Rem, exclaimed at the same time and pumped their fists simultaneously. Between them, Beatrice just sighed. "Guess it was natural, I suppose. But, Betty is unsure that Wrathbaru would like this development….." She lowered her eyebrows, sulking her cute face.

The other did not support, nor did they dissuade the two's glee.

"Maybe Emilia-sama can rescue Wrathbaru and then they can escape to live a happy life together!" Petra said, clenching her fists in hope.

"But, this story is called 'Oboreru'. In the end, will everything continue to drown away?" Julius said.

A complicated authentication was needed to open the door. Only Subaru and Frederica, her caretaker, were allowed to enter and leave.

However, the moment Emilia's hand touched the door, the system crumbled, leaving no trace behind.

"Subaru, you twit.."

Emilia murmured, while trying to seek signs of the destroyed system with her palm.

It had been originally created so that only Emilia could break the system. In other words, Subaru had always allowed her to escape from this room.

The bird-cage was designed to be destroyed by the bird's determination.

Was it because Subaru had believed that she would never run away?

Or was it because he showed kindness, in allowing her the decision to do so?

Emilia desired to hear an answer straight from Subaru's mouth.

-Not being able to choose anything at the end of this time, this was Emilia's decision.

"Considering Wrathbaru's disposition, I would bet that it's because he trusted that Emilia-san would never try to hurt him." Crusch said, rubbing her forehead. She did not think of Emilia's action as being a good one. "In my opinion, it is already too late for such a decision. The cards have been set in motion. Even if Wrathbaru escapes, there is nothing but enemies all around him. If he can escape from here, that is."

"Straight to the point, huh." Anastasia said. "I agree that he won't be able to have a hopeful escape. And it seemed like he was fine with Emilia hating him. Putting that aside, can you see the parallel from arc 4?"

"Hm?" Crusch said, making even Emilia direct her attention at those words.

"No offense to you when I say this, Emilia-san. But similar to the sanctuary's ending, this climax is also resulting in Emilia changing. She is going through a little bit of a different growth than the sanctuary, but it's growth nonetheless. And just like how the birdcage's door was broken by the determination of the captured bird, Emilia had to push open the door that she had built herself, during Arc 4. With her determination, and her action, the fragile door broke, allowing her to reach 'character development.'"

"I see, I suppose. And this character development is always related to Subaru in some way. Of course, whether Subaru would like this 'change' in Emilia, is another matter altogether ..." Beatrice said.

Having been removed from the reception hall, Natsuki Subaru ran along with Halibel and gave a deep chuckle.

"Something like taking Felt as a hostage, I wonder if that would be a good idea."

Would that have restrained Reinhardt's movements?

No, it would make the possibility of fighting a powered up Reinhard more likely.

This would be the flow of his simulation. He had already had a premonition that Pandemonium's fall would turn out in this manner.

"Guess posing as an underworld boss was kinda fun…"

"Don't know what's fun about that and don't wanna know, pal." Al said. "But man, to think his path uptil now would lead to this ending. In a way, it might have been avoidable and inevitable at the exact same time. Maybe if he had found someone, a person who could have shown him a different path, all of this would have been different…"

"Wrathbaru-kunn knew what he was getting into when he decided to adopt his way of thinking," Roswall said, shrugging his shoulders. "And here's the thing, to show him a different path, one would have to understand him first. That, unfortunately, is a rare sentiment nowadays."

"Yeah, just like how I ain't going to sympathize with your path…"

"Ouch, I wasn't seeking sympathy…" Roswall gave a wry smile to Al, concluding their conversation.

Wrathbaru was looking back at his path, at all the suffering he had caused. Grasping the weakness of others, he would lord over their lives and receive immense hatred, even taking their lives on a whim.

No, it wasn't a whim.

Perceiving it as toying would be a huge misunderstanding. He had never pondered it or given it a thought, finding no need to do so.

However, Subaru was afraid of people, terribly so.

Outwardly having a smile, but hiding immense cunningness within. This way of human beings, moving as they please with ulterior motives in their heart, was horrifying.

Wondering about whether to trust such people, was idiotic.

So, Subaru simplified human relationships by believing that everyone lied. With that, even if everyone detested Subaru, a world without problems could be created.

"That is, well…." Anastasia said, pausing for a few minutes to gather her thoughts. "I can definitely sympathize with the sentiment that everyone has some degree of an ulterior motive. In the merchant world, even a small smile of kindness has a motive behind it. However, not everyone's ulterior motive is always malicious and untrustworthy. And in the end, everyone is bound to have some hidden desire in their heart."

"For him, I'm guessing this is just a way to simplify human relationships and protect his fragile sanity. When Natsuki Subaru was summoned to this world, he hadn't really experienced any actual human relationships before. And his first major relationships after coming to this world, would arguably be with the twin maids of the mansion. So the event that transpired in that arc, would have molded him greatly." Crusch said.

"Because we–" Rem wanted to continue speaking, but a small sob in her throat interrupted her speech. Seeing that state, Crush did a fake cough and directed attention away.

"Attempting to simplify human relationships is something that our Subaru does quite a bit." At her words, many tilted their heads in confusion. "This is something that you must know about as well, Anastasia-san. By fixing the impression of your social converser, one can make it easier to deal with them. Isn't it much easier to deal with someone who has a fixed view of you, rather than someone who's opinion about you is constantly changing?"

"Ah, I see now. That is true, and it is something I do myself. By giving a constant appearance of myself, I can divert another person's opinions in a manner that I desire. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, Natsuki-kun does that to a certain extent. The way he acts like the 'joker', being overly friendly and over-exaggerating. A 'clown', for lack of a better word. And in Wrathbaru's case, he relies on other people's never-changing hatred. As long as they continue to hate him, it would be easier to deal with that impression."

"Ku-hu," a small giggle came from Ram. That giggle was directed towards Roswall, who turned away from her gaze. Ram knew that Roswall liked to do something similar. He always acted in a grandiose, clown-ish, and secretive manner when dealing with others. His outfit, his appearance, and his way of talking. Along with his desire to get rid of his unremovable humanity, all of those things reflected his social awkwardness. He had already decided that nobody would like him. And that's why, a fixed impression was much easier to deal with.

Every human possessed a weakness. And that's why-

"-If only the weakness of every human being in the world could be grasped."

Then, only then, Subaru would not have to doubt anyone.

By feeding on loathing, he could trust that in a world without colors.

Even Halibel, who was assisting him in his escape, was nothing but monochrome to Subaru.

It wasn't just Halibel, rather the entire world had lost color.

Everything was monochrome. Blood, water, magic stones, paintings, people, etc.

In this world, only three people had color.

Beatrice had been colorful. Emilia had been so. And beyond that, there was only one.

"Wait, what?" Felt tilted her head, going left and right with comical motions. "I counted three people. Three people that Wrathbaru said he could trust. The first two are obvious, but who the hell is the third?!"

"That is peculiar, Felt-sama. It certainly isn't his employees, or anyone that has been shown in this story." Reinhard said, being similarly perturbed.

"I do have a wild guess, but I think it would be way more fun to see the answer, if the screen shows it." Anastasia said.

While the others were contemplating on the existence of this third person, two people had widened their eyes in disbelief, having come to some kind of a conclusion.

"To think that mineself had missed something so important. I thought I had the entire story figured out, but there still remains something interesting for me." Priscilla said, covering her mouth with her fan. Similar to Anastasia, she had figured out the identity of this person. However, she had not figured out the minute details and the connection between various events.

Though, the second person had quickly put it all together.

"Could it be that the first scene's ending was a feint?!" With surprise visible in his heterochromatic eyes, Roswall thought to himself. "Of course! It would make sense! His reasons for acquiring all of those magic stones can easily be answered when you consider Ram's disposition. She needs mana infusions of several different elements. Plus, her immense hatred would fulfill Wrathbaru's requirements of seeing color in others. And the two meals prepared for food, also fit the entire situation."

Roswall could not help but have a wide smirk on his face. He was experiencing a childish emotion, one of deep comradeship. "I understand you, Wrathbaru-kun! I understand your sentiment, more than anyone here. I deeply believed in Ram's hatred for me. That hatred was a salvation to me. Not only could I trust that, I could also depend on it in the future, allowing her to kill me when it's all done. You have a similar purpose don't you? Keeping her existence in close proximity is something necessary for your state of being. It is necessary for the future. But then again, Ram can throw some huge curveballs out of nowhere. Will she act according to the way you want her to, or will she do something different?"

Anyways, Subaru could not believe in anyone else besides them.

Everyone else had faded away and those fakers could not be believed.

And only the real articles had the qualification to decide whether Natsuki Subaru lives or dies.

"I had a tad of expectations from Reinhardt."

He expected that those he met before the event that triggered the loss of his memories, would still retain their color.

However, Reinhard had lost his vivid colors and now appeared ashen to Subaru. It was dirty to him.

In the end, Reinhardt was also a child of man.

"So it was true that pal wants to die, huh. Or to be exact, he will only allow the ones with colors to determine his fate." Al said. "As much as I believe that death is never a salvation, I can't really determine another path for Wrathbaru."

"That is right, isn't it? The brat has closed off all other paths. In this world filled with human hearts, he won't receive what he wants." Priscilla said. She gazed at Emilia for a split second, sighing at the capability of a person to change. Priscilla had established her own personality at a young age of 12, not having changed much since then. However, drastic changes in other individuals was something entertaining to her. In the end, perspective and experience made a world of difference.

Reinhard would also continue to lie while living. That is all there is to it.

"I am sure he must understand how much of a logical fallacy his way of thinking is," Julius said, giving a deep sigh of exasperation. "After all, even he is human, a human that would continue to change throughout the years."

"And in his case, change would end up equating to lying," Felix said. "Felis would evaluate this as an extreme psychological disorder. And like a mental illness, one can only have recovery by seeking it on their own. However, Wrathbaru would probably consider even the doctor to be a liar."

"Master—!" A loud voice called out to Halibel and Subaru, dashing from the other side of the corridor. What could be seen was the blond hair, long in body, maid Frederica.

"You gotta be fucking kidding me…" With that mutter, a strong sound like that of a slap could be heard. The sound and the mutter, both came from Garfiel who had face palmed himself. He slowly turned to face his sister, who slumped down her red-tinged face. "What the hell are you doing, Nee-sama? Are you actually an idiot?"

"Wha-, Garfiel!" Emilia said, disliking his tone. "Why are you saying something like that to Frederica? I'm sure that the WrathFrederica hates Wrathbaru to an extreme degree. So isn't it obvious that she would use this chance to attack him? See, even I have a good head on my shoulders." Puffing her chest, Emila took some pride in her logical abilities.

"Emilia," Beatrice said. "I agree that the maid must be driven with intense hatred and a desire for revenge. But tell me, just who is running alongside with Wrathbaru, trying to protect him?"

"Well it's Halibel-san, the strongest of the Kararagi states…..Oh no!" Emilia facepalmed herself.

Not just her, everyone facepalmed in exasperation. Frederica's face continued to get red with embarrassment.

"Even given the fact that I am driven by great emotion, just why does WrathFrederica believe that she can get past Halibel-san? Her job as the information leaker has already ended….." Frederica said.

"Pfft," Priscilla was trying to stifle her laughter. "Their entire camp does that quite often. They all seem to be masters of sucide attacks. How hilarious."

Her colors were hard to discern, but her face had a potent expression.

Subaru had secretly found Frederica to his liking.

And so-

"Prepare yourself–sh!"

Rushing in, she shouted in a disciplined manner and attempted to make an attempt for his life. That appeared to be a lovable nature to Subaru.

"Oh-ho, lovable nature! Finding her secretly to his liking!" Roswall said, teasing Frederica.

"Hmph! Unfortunately, I shall have to turn him down. Not to mention, I am sure there is another reason why Wrathbaru finds me to his liking."

Of course, those actions would not be tolerated by Kararagi's strongest.

"Ah, guh!"

The dagger in her hand was snatched and she was pushed up against the wall, her arm pinned. Frederica could only helplessly turn back her neck towards Halibel.

Garfiel turned to look at Frederica, and then smirked with a , 'Heh'.

"Wha! Your sister is in mortal peril, and you are laughing instead of worrying!" Frederica said.

"Nah, I am worried about your safety, don't get me wrong on that. But you are the one who made a naive mistake by succumbing to your emotions, Nee-sama."

"Succumbing to my emotions! I! Don't! Want! To! Hear! That! From! You! Such hypocrisy!"

"Why are you doing this, Halibel-sama? Now, by taking advantage of this turmoil, that man-!"

"Ya could kill him. I understand why you think so. You children whose weaknesses have been grasped, all desire freedom through Su-san's death. I know, but-"

Halibel opened his narrowed eyes and glared at Frederica. Being bathed in that light, Frederica produced a thin sound from her throat.

"Unfortunately, I don't follow Su-san because of my weakness. To repay Su-san's kindness, that's why I serve him."

"A kindness?! From this man, kindness! Stop playing around-!"

With bloodshot eyes, Frederica looked fiercely at Subaru. Those sharp fangs frew into thick, strong, and beast-like fingers.

"No matter what–hk?!"

"Su-san?"

Subaru came to stand next to Frederica. Frederica widened her eyes, but Subaru did not pause even when Halibel called out to him. Like that, Frederica raised her arm and grazed Subaru's neck.

At that moment, the scarf on his neck came undone and fell to the floor.

"-Hiee." Seeing what was behind the scarf, Frederica let out a deep sound from her throat.

Halibel also revealed a faint surprise.

On Natsuki Subaru's neck, marks clearly remained, shaped like fingers.

"Od laguna…" Petra said, covering her mouth at that sight. Her eyes were naturally drawn towards Ram, easily figuring out the obvious perpetrator of the marks. Petra had mixed opinions regarding Wrathbaru. To be honest, she just wanted Subaru to wake up and for them to leave this theater. But for now, her thoughts were directed towards Ram and her twin sister. Her feelings for them were a complete mess. And this scar on Wrathbaru's neck was a great reminder of some of the traumatic incidents shown on this screen. Stifling vomit, she quickly diverted her eyes.

"You sure did a number on him, Ram," Roswall quietly said.

"My greatest mistake was acting in haste, without evidence and without reason." Ram said. "I guess I was way less experienced, and way less intelligent than I thought I was. I was justified in feeling intense rage, grief, and hatred at the loss of my dear sister. But I was wrong in directing it towards him the way I did."

"I wonder, just how do you plan on apologizing and repenting to Subaru?"

"That's…" Ram's eyes went towards her sister. "Roswall-sama does not need to know about it. This is something between me and my sister."

Slumping down his shoulders, Roswall relented with a wave of his hand.

"It won't do, Frederica. I won't allow that black and white you to kill me."

"..."

Drawing his face closer, Subaru asserted to the frozen Frederica. He had hoped that Frederica might have had some color. Yet, in this crucial state, she still remained black and white.

"See, what did I tell you?" Frederica said, puffing her chest with pride. "Wrathbaru is bound to have some sort of ulterior motive. Whether he realizes this or not, he is unfortunately the same as those he fears."

"I do agree on that one, Frederica-san." Otto said. "It seems that even you have disconnected yourself to this reality, to a certain degree. Wrathbaru must have been hoping that your hatred would have blossomed into colors. For some reason, the criterias were not met."

At Frederica's nod, filled with reason and logic, Rem clenched her fist tight. There was a feeling in her heart, an emotion of contempt towards those who can so easily disassociate themselves. It felt like everybody was leaving Subaru behind the moment he began to drown. Others were busy analyzing his life choices and being hypocritical about it. Many were likely contemplating a countermeasure against Subaru. But once again, Rem did not want to take hasty and irresolute actions.

"Halibel-san, take Frederica and let her get away."

"Su-san, the insider that dragged in the sword saint is probably-"

"I know."

"That is surprising," Frederica said, "It is surprising that even after knowing that I was the insider, he would let me escape."

"It is a good thing that I don't have to see my sister die…."

"Maybe it is a small act of kindness, without any ulterior motives behind it.." Trivey said, trailing his words off in perplexion.

"Ka-ha, unlike his ideology, people in reality aren't that white and black!" Ricardo said.

"Or maybe he just doesn't care that much, similar to how he doesn't really care about his organization having collapsed." Anastasia said. "With all the work put into it, a person would normally be devastated by such a loss. But he is more concerned about ending things, allowing his death to be executed by someone with color."

"B-But returning by death wouldn't allow that, right?" Emilia said.

"That's right, Onee-chan. I can't really see any other end except for everything repeating again." Felt said.

Gazing at the frozen Frederica, Subaru cut off Halibel's words.

He understood without being told. It was understandable that Frederica would secretly do things, given her emotions caused by her treatment.

-It wasn't just limited to Frederica. If not her, someone else would have done it. That it would only be her was a miscalculation.

"You don't have to come back, Halibel-san. I'll go settle things in my own way."

"..."

"If you want to return my kindness, then that'll be enough. In the first place, you don't have any reason to feel any gratitude. I was just being cunning after all."

Shaking his head, he slightly smiled at Halibel.

Perhaps Halibel had regarded Subaru as someone who cared for him. Nevertheless, he could not see any color coming from Halibel.

Because he had lost the right to believe in something, a lost color won't ever come back.

So was it that not a single thing would ever be colored for Subaru?

If so, that which was there to cling onto, was only-

"With Su-san, I had wanted to be proper friends."

"If I had not run away, that might have been.."

Halibel accepted Subaru's intentions and bid him farewell with those short words.

Subaru as well, thought that anything more would be inappropriate between them.

But in the end, he wanted to look cool towards that person who could have become a friend.

"Aww, poor wolfie-chan! I don't know if I should consider this farewell to be manly, or to be sad! Actually, maybe it's both!" Mimi said.

"Ka-ha, my racial comrade did quite well in my opinion. At first I was concerned because he was serving an underworld boss, something that could put a damper on our reputation. But in the end, he handled himself well and repaid his debt, even giving a cool farewell at the end." Ricardo said, giving a small nod to his brethren.

"Maybe we can go to Kararagi one day?" Petra looked at Emilia, hope in her eyes.

"Mh, that would be difficult during the selection. I also don't want to put Subaru in any danger by going there. But after everything is dealt with, if Subaru wishes for it then we will definitely pay Kararagi a visit. Though I am not sure if we could meet Halibel-san."

"Rem is sure that Subaru-kun would figure out a way, if we tell him about this if-story and its contents that is. And even this Wrathbaru-kun has a similar sentiment to our Subaru, huh. A sentiment of wanting to look cool in front of people that he could consider his friends." Rem said.

"But in the end, it all comes back down to the decision at the mansion." Otto said, leaving a deep sigh. "With all the information we have now it would be crucial to think of his decision from a different light."

"The decision between Virtue or Sin, is it?" Crusch said, having arrived at the same train of thought. As others tilted their heads, Crusch began to explain. "Like I had asserted before, the decision that our Natsuki Subaru took was an important decision that should be acknowledged and respected. His decision wasn't as simple as choosing to die for the sake of restarting everything. It was a decision where he chose to believe in something, in someone that had wronged him before."

"In us, is it?" Rem said.

"Yes, he believed in you guys and your true nature. He jumped for the sake of believing in others. However, Wrathbaru forfeited that belief when he decided to escape instead. And instead of moving on, he carried all of that with him. Even if he regrets it now, it's too late to go back."

"But why does Natsuki-san have to be so extreme everytime?!" Otto said, rubbing his forehead in slight annoyance. "I have been taught that a balance in life is necessary. This applied to Virtue as well. Virtue should be the midpoint between deficiency and excess of something."

"Ah, you have been taught well, Otto-kun." Anastasia said. "Courage should be the midpoint between recklessness and cowardice. Mercy should also have a midpoint. However, Natsuki-kun seems to be on the extreme end of mercy, always going too far on one end or the other."

"But well, you need to consider that pal always goes through extreme situations. It's always life or death for him. Reality itself is shaping his ideology to an extreme end." Al said.

"Betty's contractor has to face a cruel fate every time. So Betty agrees with that helmet man, I suppose." Beatrice said. "But Subaru does force some heavy shackles on himself. It's similar to how he burdeneed his shoulders with heavy expectations that did not exist, when he was back in his original world. Why does he have to lose the right to believe in anything, just because of a single incident of betrayal?!"

"It's because that is easier to do." Priscilla said.

"Easier?!" Felt said.

"What Wrathbaru chose was the easier decision. It is much harder to attempt to believe in someone who has betrayed you once." She said, recalling the image of that black-skinned spirit eater. "Fixing the shattered pieces of a delicate vase is extremely difficult to do. And even then, the vase would never be the same again. But the brat chose to try anyway. Quite a foolish and commendable decision, I shall give him that. Wrathbaru however, chose to leave the vase behind and replaced it with another. The replaced vase was corrupt and dirty, ready to fall apart in a single touch. In the end, that's all this if-story amounts to."

"Ugu, you are kinda right with that comparison. But as expected of our Onii-chan! Though his morals are at the extreme end of goodness, it is still cool as hell." Felt said, pumping her fist.

"Frederica."

"-"

Frederica slowly turned towards him, responding to that call.

Subaru was hesitant to convey something to that woman who had lost the will to fight.

But because he had been told to do so, he wished to report to her.

"The food was always delicious, they told me that."

-Perhaps, she did not understand the meaning of that sentence.

"Just how am I supposed to take that sentence?" Frederica said, furrowed her brows.

"'They', must refer to the employees in Pandemonium, considering that there is no one else here. And also because you were the only one who prepared the meals for the entire castle, based on the information we have received." Crusch said. "I am guessing that this must be connected to that list you saw in the earlier chapter, the one with all the employee names on it and with a gold coin besides it. The people who left behind this message must be the ones that were killed on a whim by the King."

"That is what I thought as well, Crusch-sama." Julius said. "At least for me, this leaves me with mixed feelings considering that he was the one who caused their deaths in the first place. But in the end, this might be his own way of giving gratitude to Frederica-san for her services."

In her eyes, Subaru must have appeared as a monster.

That was fine, he had acted as such and been as such.

However, he was not able to see the results he desired.

"Then, where should I go, I wonder."

Halibel took Frederica, disappearing within the shadows.

Left behind, Subaru was alone in the collapse of his dreams.

Pandemonium shook constantly, evidence of Reinhard and Cecilus's battle. But from afar, he could hear multiple voices. This showed that the assault wasn't just limited to Reinhard, but multiple enemies had taken advantage of this commotion.

Enemies, enemies, and enemies. Nothing but enemies surrounding him.

Having lived the way he did, it was natural.

He reached a fork, and hesitated in his decision.

Going right would have him reach Emilia's quarters, the girl who had supported his weak self.

"Please, Subaru. Just wait there. I hope that 'Emilia' is able to find you, and that you can escape together. Give her one more chance to save you, please." A quiet prayer came from Emilia.

Going left would have him come across what his weak self had taken as a support, that girl-

"That doesn't give us much to work with. In fact, the characteristic of this mysterious person feels the same as Emilia-sama. As expected from Barusu!" Ram said, crossing her hands together.

Roswall had to desperately hold back his laughter at that Ram, finding the entire situation to be hilariously ironic.

"-Eh?"

It was the moment of his decision, someone came running up to him and pierced his left side with a knife.

"Eh?...Subaru!" Emilia said, instinctively reaching out her arm. "Why…. does it have to be at such a time?"

Rem gritted her teeth, feeling intense anger at this ambush attack. Petra looked away, and Frederica consoled her. Some others gasped in surprise, unable to have seen this attack coming. Some looked away, agreeing at this inevitable end.

"Someone..must have taken advantage of him being unprotected." Otto said, lowering his voice. "It was bound to happen, I guess."

"Kinda stings though, Otto-bro." Garfiel said, puffing out air through his nose.

"It's a symbol." Priscilla said. "One cannot escape from their sins, that is what it symbolizes. A clever individual has just exploited his weakness, something that Wrathbaru himself does quite often. Well, considering that the screen has not finished showing yet, it must mean that we still have more to watch."

In a strange castle, in a strange landscape, Emilia was running barefoot.

Emilia had only spent this past year inside her quarters. Thus, the interior of the castle was unexplored territory for her.

But Emilia's focus was on the boy she was searching for.

"-Emilia-sama!"

Called by her name, Emilia stopped her steps in surprise.

Pandemonium had partially collapsed and had lost its original form. Emilia had been called by a young man with blue eyes and red hair, standing in a white corridor with its windows slanted and cracked.

"Reinhardt.."

"Have you been well, Emilia-sama? I am glad to be able to meet you again."

"Oh boy, it seems like Onee-chan met the wrong person here. Rein wouldn't really hurt her, but he is definitely going to oppose Onee-chan's desire to meet with Wrathbaru." Felt said.

Regardless of the place, he was still adhering to a knight's courtesy and posture. His attitude was too brave and elegant.

He ran to Emilia's side, bowing his head. But due to his appearance, Emilia's eyes were shaking with bewilderment.

"Reinhardt, you are gravely wounded. Are you alright?"

"There is no need to worry. That it is a light wound, cannot be said, however."

Reinhard relaxed his lips at Emilia's words.

But to her, his appearance was ripe with injuries, an unimaginable sight.

Covering his body were innumerable cuts that had been produced by the flashes of a blade. The bleeding had not stopped and red droplets of blood were dripping in the corridor. His noble and fearless cheeks had strands of red hair stuck on it. His face had a hue of fatigue and his breathing was in a disturbed state.

The white knight's uniform was dirtied and covered in blood, not only another's but his own as well.

"Oh lord, Rein," Felt said, gulping with disorder. "Never thought that you could get this injured…"

"Indeed, I think it's surprising to all of us." Wilhelm said.

"Grandfather, what is surprising is my opponent's skill. Cecilus-dono must have improved quite a bit." Reinhardt said, slightly glad at the growth of his opponent. "And I cannot help but show gratitude to Emilia-sama, for showing kindness even in this situation."

"No, Reinhardt. I am not…" Emilia said, trailing her words off at the end.

"But the victor in the end was the sword saint. Though, because we do not see the blue-brat's body, it would be hasty to assume his death." Priscilla said.

What was shocking above all,

"Your sword."

"That right here right now is a scene for the dragon sword to be drawn, has been judged by the sword."

The sword which was never-drawn, never-needed, now shone with a white glow.

Against whom had he wielded this sword? Against whom will he wield it in the future?

"So she is already considering that he might become a threat to Wrathbrat," Priscilla said, enjoying the flinch from Emilia.

"Anyways, that Emilia-sama is safe is fortunate..Depart from here alongside me. There is a dragon carriage waiting outside the castle. With it, to Lugunica…"

"To Lugunica..Where is this?"

"This is at the edge of the Kararagi city-states, a hidden castle at the Crimson Hills Girall. Finding the organization took great effort, but with the help of an insider and a competent spy, it was somehow discovered."

"Oh! The Crimson Hills Girall, is it? Quite an interesting place the organization is based on." Anastasia said, enjoying the inquisitive looks on her. "It's based at the far end of the world map, directly attached near the Jimuna Volcano. It's a place made of dunes. These dunes in turn, are entirely made of small magic stones. Though I have never been there, it is commonly believed that the magic stones explode all year round."

"Quite a dangerous place, fit for the organization's headquarters. And I am guessing that the competent spy is Otto-kun." Julius said.

"Ha! A volcano symbolizing the wrath of mother nature, drowning all in its melting magma and covering everything in its thick shroud!" Priscilla said, nodding deeply and looking satisfied at the connections. "Such blatant hidden meanings are left even in the locations themselves. Can't help but be impressed here."

Reinhardt regarded his surroundings with caution. Even now, the sounds of a battle were continuing in the castle. In Reinhardt's case, he would wish to head towards his allies.

Even gravely wounded, he was the world's strongest man.

"That's right, Rein. You need to be a little more proud of yourself!" Felt said.

Reinhardt gave a wry smile and said, "If it was strength that I had achieved with persistence and hard work, then I would be proud of it. However, most of my abilities have been gifted to me, Felt-sama."

"That's.." Felt scratched her head. "I don't know much about that stuff. But the one who decided when and how to use this power is you, Reinhardt. I think you can be proud of your application, even if it's a little lacking and boring."

Reinhardt simply nodded, refusing to give a reply to that.

With him, Pandemonium's fall was only a question of time.

If he were not here-

"Oh…how intriguing.." Priscilla smirked at that last line.

"Emilia-sama, right now we must-"

Hurry from this place. That's what he might have been trying to say.

However, those words were suddenly interrupted by Emilia's actions, who had spun in place.

It was but an instant. From the back, through Reinhardt's abdomen, a sword of ice pierced through. Blood flowed through the blade of frost, his insides being destroyed by the invading cold. The sword saint, at the shock that he had never felt before, coughed up blood.

"What?!" "What?"

Two surprised and stunned voices rang out. The first was from a bewildered Emilia, stunned at the action her other self took. The other was from Reinhardt, shocked by the inability of his other self to block the attack. Along with that, the others displayed their surprise as well.

"W-what the heck just happened?!" Felt said. "Before he could even say anything, he was just stabbed without reason."

"This is….even I am confused about this turn of events." Crusch said.

"That Onee-chan is kinda scary and cool at the same time. That spin in particular, was just a masterpiece!" Mimi said, jumping up in approval.

"Nee-sama, I am unsure if this is the correct part at displaying your surprise at."

"Feels like the action of a loyal subordinate who is defending their boss without any notice or exception." Ram said.

"Emilia-sama.." Rem said, surprised about the action taken. However, a part of her heart felt happy that someone else could take such extreme measures, appearing out of nowhere and without any reason.

"There was a reason behind that action." Priscilla said, sighing at the fact that she would have to educate the monkeys again. "It came from her deep subconsciousness. Without having realized herself, the half-elf has been imprinted with the dependency of Wrathbrat. The moment she realized that the Sword saint's presence had jeopardized the relationship between her and the Wrathbrat, her body moved before her mind could register. It's similar to the animalistic instinct of a creature, attempting to protect someone that they need in their life."

"No way…I, my dependency can go…that far..?" Emilia said. Not only was she surprised, but she was slightly shaking at this unknown quality of herself.

"It is unrelated to anything moral and ethical, half-elf. While your consciousness cannot decide what to feel or what action to take, your instincts have already decided for you. Your body moved without your consciousness having caught up to it. Thus, that result followed."

"Priscilla-sama is right." Reinhardt said. "My intuition should have been able to see your intent with that attack. Plus, my divine protections would have protected me, allowing me to instantly dodge that attack. Putting aside whether the castle has some sort of an interference against my protections, I would have been able to dodge if the attack had been filled with purpose and intent. My defenses would have normally protected me from such an attack. Ah, that is not to say that this attack was inferior in quality. I am extremely sorry if I gave that impression."

"A fairly dangerous attack executed like an unseen ball, nya. There is also the fact that your injuries have not been healed yet. According to you, the spirits around the place would automatically assist you and take care of any injuries. But that has not happened in this place…" Felix said.

"Might be because of where it is situated. Or the spirits might have run away due to the presence of the Great spirit, Puck. Whatever the case, Emilia-san's attack has now stacked the cards against her. She could have been safely protected by the Kingdom, but now she has declared herself an enemy." Anastasia said.

"If it was for Subaru-kun, then Rem would have done the same.." A thought of approval rang inside Rem's brain.

"Emilia-sama.."

"Ah.."

Unable to understand what had happened, Reinhard collapsed to his knees. Seeing that, Emilia stared blankly at her own fingers.

She realized that what she did was an unexpected act.

If this had been a true betrayal, Reinhard could have blocked it.

If the attack held emotion behind it, Reinhard's intuition would not be evaded. And in the case where his divine protections were working properly, his defenses would have protected him.

But this place was Pandemonium and Emilia could not make up her mind. That had left a fatal gap in Reinhardt.

"I can't,...Not that, Subaru is, no, Reinhardt, no, Subaru. I won't let him be hurt. Subaru needs me."

"A dependency born out of her desire to be needed by others, is it?" Roswall said. "It reminds me of Subaru-kun in arc three. A dependency and obsession was born in heart, one caused by his intense desire to be needed and validated. Well, even I would say that the desire for validation is a curse."

"Hah! As expected of the young and foolish ones! But getting past the sword saint is going to be an impossible goal for Emilia-sama." Ram said.

Emilia shook her head in refusal as her actions corroborated with her true intentions.

The reason for her actions was because she had realized the threat of Reinhardt, someone who would target Subaru.

Thus, she unconsciously did not stop herself from attacking, realizing that she had no choice but to kill Reinhardt.

"Subaru is my…" Only now did she understand her own feelings. Subaru had come looking for her repeatedly, attempting to attain peace of mind. In this time, Emilia had also been saved.

Both of them needed each other.

"I will protect him. If I don't protect him, then…"

"Emilia-sama, that is…"

"-Puck, please!"

A roar and a cold wind blew, Emilia's silver hair fluttering in the white hallway. His body bathed in frigid air filled with a sublimated intent to kill. As his flesh froze, he jumped back to escape the severe wind, drawing a line of blood in midair. And while coughing blood, he lifted his sword and regarded the Beast of the end who was standing side-by-side with the Witch of Glaciation.

"Sorry, Reinhardt. Lia's wishes are my own. If you're that weakened - even I might win. You can think of it as catlike cruelty."

"Please, Reinhardt. Return like this. Leave me and Subaru alone."

"That's going to be impossible, I suppose." Beatrice said, her pupils trembling. "Bubby is going to lose. And having caused this situation in the first place, Emilia's plea is not going to be heard. How depressing, I suppose."

Emilia clenched her fist, hoping that this story would have a peaceful ending of some sorts.

"This sight is truly like that of a fairy tail.." Julius said. "However, this time the Heroic Knight has to turn his blade towards those he had come to protect."

"Tch, I am sure that Rein does not want to do such a thing. But Wrathbaru's crimes have gotten to the point where there is no other way. Leaves a bad taste in my mouth." Felt said.

"-That is not possible."

Reinhardt shook his head at Emilia's offer, who had caused this situation in the first place. Negotiations had already broken down. Reinhardt had been taken by surprise. Given his wounds, he might have accepted this offer of reconciliation.

But his belief was that this was not a situation which allowed that.

"As the head of Pleiades, the Purge King, Natsuki Subaru, starting with the murder of Roswall L Mathers, amoung the people of the Kingdom, as well as the Vollachian Empire and the Kararagi City-states, and among the subjects of the Holy Kingdom of Gustecko, has already had 126,702 people killed in total."

"-"

"That number only goes for direct damage. When including the indirect damage, the number of victims increases even more. No matter what, it is not an evil that can be left ignored."

The entire cast was stunned by this reveal of information. Quite gasps and open mouths were pasted on their expressions.

"What the fuck…? This can't be it, right? That many innocent and unrelated people were murdered! Just because of his twisted ideology?!What the heck…" Felt said, unable to suppress her anger.

"This is, all of this is…my…fault.." Rem said quietly, thinning her trembling lips.

"To think that same savior could be capable of insanity to this extent. I can't believe that this old man is unable to look at Wrathbaru as nothing but a twisted villain." Wilhelm said.

"Mimi agrees! A villain! A villain!" Mimi said.

"I also agree with Nee-sama. Though I still hold some pity towards him.." Trivey said.

"Unfortunately, this is not a crime that can be ignored by any means. Wrathbaru will not be able to escape from his sins." Julius said.

"Tch, in just two years he has caused so much damage." Crusch said, gritting her teeth. "This is on the same level, no, it might be worse than the degree of damage caused by Witch beasts and the witch cult."

"That number is close to the population of a great city. He is a complete epidemic, a disease that needs to be thwarted out. We were right in feeling that he is a threat and that countermeasures are necessary." Anastasia said. "As expected, even Emilia-san should be shocked by this and should reconsider her decision."

"Damm, pal…I certainly did not think it would be that much. But well, it couldn't be helped, could it?" Al said, sighing in disbelief. However, he and his princess weren't really angry or emotional about all of this.

"Hm, if we consider the amount of deaths caused in Vollachia every few years, his achievement would even beat them. Congratulations, Wrathbrat." Priscilla said, trying to recall the population losses of her home country.

"Princess, why is that part so intriguing to you? Never mind, I'm not going to ask too much about it. But at least in the Gladiator island, the fighters die for the sake of some sick entertainment."

"And in this case, they die to give him peace of mind. Any difference, Al?"

"Not really, Princess. Just to clarify, I am not really defending my pal. It's just that, incomprehensible and meaningless deaths happen all the time…."

Petra tightly hugged Frederica, her small arms trembling in disbelief. "Frederica Nee-sama, this Subaru is not 'our' Subaru, right?"

"That is right, Petra-chan." Instead of Frederica, it was Otto who answered her question. "Our Natsuki-san would never do such a thing. Compared to all of us here, Natsuki Subaru is the one who understands the value of human life the most."

"It must have gotten worse over time, I guess." Roswall said. "The more his organization expanded, the more enemies he made and achieved more methods at his disposal to end these same enemies. It is an inescapable cycle, huh."

"To think it was this bad for Wrathbarusu. We…ended up turning him into a worse monster than the witch cultists." Ram said.

"You cannot take responsibility for his actions, Ram."

"Roswall-sama?"

"The decisions that he took were his to make, regardless of any reason or past trauma. No one was forcing him to act upon his doubt and suspicion. And he decided his path for himself. It's the same with you guys, Ram. You cannot give away the responsibility of your actions to your past encounters with the witch cult. No matter what happened in your past, it should not become a justification for wrongdoings."

"...That's…you are the one saying this?! Roswall-sama!"

"Of course, I am the one who had to be taught this lesson the hard way. I cannot blame my sins on the gospel, on Sensei, and on necessity. Regardless of the reasons, the crimes committed remain as crimes. The same applies to you and your sister. And the same applies to Wrathbaru. We can all blame the world as much as we like. We can blame others and our past experiences as much as we like. But in the end, our decisions are our own to make and everyone has to answer for it."

"...Quite wise words coming from you, Roswall-sama. Perhaps you have found your way to repent?"

"No-No, not at all. I just thought that taking a step forward, smacking myself on the cheeks, and reminding myself of my responsibility is better than doing nothing at all."

Reinhardt's words held a plea. He was hoping that a change of heart would be born in Emilia, having listened to the crimes of Natsuki Subaru. Emilia had indeed received a huge shock. Stuck in her private quarters, she had not known of any of Subaru's wrongdoings. She had guessed that Roswall had been killed.

Emilia bowed her head, struck by that shock.

But the shock she felt was not due to disappointment about the sins of Natsuki Subaru.

"-Sorry, Reinhardt. Still, Subaru is dear to me."

Even after learning about his evil acts, her obsession with Subaru did not waver. Realizing that had been the true shock.

Emilia's feelings, even knowing the truth, had not changed.

Emilia's eyes opened wide and she experienced a stunning shock. It was not due to disappointment like it would usually be. It wasn't because she had been once again shown her own incompetence or uselessness. It was a pleasant surprise, one of shocking admiration and desire. Despite her own obsessiveness being the reason, she was still happy that her stance did not waver. Of course, the others were not so happy.

"What?! What the hell is Onee-chan doing?! I know she is dependent on Wrathbaru, but is she seriously siding with a mass-murderer?! What the hell happened to 'equality' and 'justice'?!" Felt said, a harsh tone on her lips.

The others looked with disappointment in their eyes. Of course, all of that was directed to the Emilia on the screen. But even then, an atmosphere of distrust and discomfort filled the theater, all directed towards Emilia. However,

"I think Emilia-sama has done great here." Rem said.

"What?! Now what the hell are you on about?!" Felt said, expressing the surprise that everybody felt.

Emilia, Rem, Ram, and everyone else were equally shocked. Of course, Priscilla was only intrigued, that's all.

Rem turned her face towards the others, an angry glare plastered on her cute features. "All of you have been going on about 'disconnecting yourself from this if-story', analyzing Wrathbaru's story, and thinking about countermeasures for the future! But all you are doing is abandoning Subaru the moment he turns into a twisted path, proclaiming that you have no business in this at all! The moment he does anything bad, everyone just turns away and leaves! The moment he does something great, everybody flocks around him! Just how exactly is this true care?!"

"...N-Now, Rem-san." Otto said, his lips trembling in shock. "Remember, this is just an impossible reality. It is just a thought experiment. Our views here don't apply to the real Natsuki Subaru. No need to get so–"

"Riled up?! You say all of that, but isn't this if-reality being shown to us to gauge our reactions?!"

"...Pardon?"

"It's to show those who would try and help Subaru-kun. To show those who would truly attempt to save him from a twisted path. And if he does fall to that path, these individuals would still be with him! Your reactions help to show those who would instantly discard a twisted Subaru-kun. They would call it none-of-their-business, turning away their gaze and thinking about safety protocols. But wouldn't it be way too lonely, to leave Subaru-kun behind the moment he changes in a negative manner?"

"-!" Otto desperately wanted to assert that he was not going to leave behind his friend. However, his words were stuck in his throat, unable to be spoken.

Many others were in a similar way, faces frozen after having a cruel truth spat in their faces.

They would not leave behind Subaru, right? They could 'change' him, right? They would help him at crucial moments, right? They wouldn't run to protect their backs, or ignore the issue, right?

Unanswerable questions swerve through their heads, quieting any counter-arguments.

"Rem…" Emilia said, surprised that someone would support an obsessive Emilia.

Rem turned towards her call, regaining control over her troubled breathing. "I believe Emilia-sama did great. I know it was due to your obsession, but Rem is glad that at least one person is still supporting Subaru."

"Hmph, I suppose. Even Betty shall praise you, I suppose. Here, take some headpats for your courageous work of challenging the Sword saint." Beatirce said, proceeding to pat Emilia's head with her small hands. "Though for Wrathbaru, Betty thinks he won't like Emilia's current behavior. He who wants to be hated by others, will never accept an obsessive love, I suppose."

"-Kh."

Faced with such a declaration from Emilia, Reinhardt bit his lips.

"How cruel that it has to turn out like this.." Reinhardt muttered, turning away his face from the screen.

He soon raised his face and directed his drawn Dragon sword towards his opponents.

"Reinhardt Van Astrea, of the sword saint bloodline."

"I'm Emilia, just Emilia."

Having named themselves, a white shock destroyed the uppermost floor of Pandemonium.

The captive Princess, who was supposed to be rescued, and the Knight in shining armor, who was supposed to rescue her, would end up killing one another.

.

.

Chapter end.