Happy Birthday Day
The abyss swallowed me.
Comfortable darkness ate my body, its teeth gnawing at me, its tongue lavishing me.
I did not resist, I simply allowed it. I had no recollection yet I knew I was tired from being alive. It was tiresome to keep on waking only to face this darkness once more. An abyss that would always greet me with cold hands.
There was no reason to fight this.
Yet I felt an urge to resist. To stand. To keep on trekking this tiresome feeling.
I opened nothing and viewed the desolate abyss. Comfortable was the first thing that came to my mind.
Comfortable Darkness.
It spans endlessly, the darkness, like the void we called space. Yet it was not as beautiful as space for this darkness held no stars to be viewed. Just endless darkness.
I held no mouth yet I opened. Nothing came out just as I expected. I wouldn't want it any other way anyway.
The urge to resist grew greater, its stirring growing rapidly, nearly knocking any other emotions out of my soul.
I resisted the feeling. I wanted to stay here. Whether it was what I deserved or not did not matter. It was peaceful here.
I did not know how I knew it was peaceful for this place was the only world I knew. Any other would be my imagination, a nightmare, a dream.
I held no arms yet I moved nothing, the feeling of my arms swooshing was felt by me, almost as if I was swimming in a sea. Its sensation felt nearly blissful.
I held no nose yet I drew in nothing, the aroma of the abyss smelled amazing, its intertwining smells of nothingness that blessed my nose smelled like flowers, cakes, tears, happiness, despair, regret, courage, and love that effortless bashed against itself and complemented each other to make a unique smell.
The urge to resist grew stronger yet I held it down, nearly drowning it.
I held no legs yet I walked nothingness, the flow of the abyss wetted my legs. The sensation felt marvelous, its refreshing cool touch reminded me of a dream I once had. There were so many people that let out joyous laughter as the heat from the sky shined down on them. They giggled as they splashed water onto one another. Suddenly two figures appeared to me, I knew not who they were or what they represented but I felt attached to them.
I reached out with nothing and their image distorted with my touch. My soul panged with sadness but with acceptance as well. I knew I'll never meet them again and I had made peace with that.
I just hope whoever they are and wherever they were, they were happy and moving along with life. I could not bear to see them hurt or wear sad expressions. So I prayed, to whom? I did not know but I prayed.
I walked even if I did not possess legs, the feeling to resist grew greater, I had to drown it now. I did not want to leave.
But that raised a question. Where would I leave if I let the feeling consume me? I only knew of this place and only this place, yet I knew of more places?
My head, one that I didn't possess panged with discord. What was it that I was not remembering?
I–
A voice whispered out from the abyss, I quickly discarded the discord that ran through my head and faced forward to the abyss.
A new feeling entered my soul, was this happiness?
From the deepest parts of the abyss arms formed. Gentle pale arms dressed with the abyss approached me. Those hands radiated acceptance and welcoming. As those arms approached I saw more of them. A black gown covered in the abyss, a veil of shadow covering their face, those dark amethyst eyes that shone brightly behind the veil of shadow.
All of their details made my soul shudder in delight.
I opened yet nothing came out, I walked yet I stood, I reached out yet I felt nothing, I flared up yet not a tear came to be.
I looked at them, my soul continuously beating in a rapid rhythm. It was like love at first sight yet it felt like I knew them eons ago. Who were they?
I love–
Their stride– No, their whole form was brimming with love, acceptance, welcoming, and even sadness. Why were they sad? They shouldn't be sad. They shouldn't! Someone like them should be happy!
I opened once more yet nothing came out, I reached out in desperation to wipe those tears that had sprang and ran down her chin yet I touched nothing.
Anger rose from within me.
I desperately wanted to alleviate them from their tears. They shouldn't be crying at all! So why? Why are you crying! Tell me! I know I can't be of much use but I'll try my best! I don't want you to see you cry! Damn it!
Their face changed, under that veil of mist of shadows a smile appeared. Did they hear me? I grew a smile yet there was none on me. Tears should have sprung from within me yet nothing came. My soul pounded with glee as they kept on approaching me.
An outline appeared, one that of a female. Who was she? Why does she make me feel this way? Why does my soul shudder at just the sight of her? If I held a face, I would be blushing immensely.
Her arms reached out to me, I felt them yet didn't, she held onto my cheeks which I didn't have. I wonder why I feel so special right now? Oh, it must be her touch. Mmm her touch…
Her wonderful soft touch, those gentle fingers that caress my void face. How I yearn to touch her back as well, to make her feel special as she does to me.
I love you.
Oh? I felt my expression change from within my soul, it was confusion. She loved me? Me of all people? Wow… Just wow… Her heart must be huge for her to love me of all people, or she's dumb. Hopefully, it's the first one.
I love you Natsuki Subaru.
There she goes again, her words brimming with love. Each syllable gushing with love and care for me of all people. Wait–Is that my name? Natsuki Subaru? N-a-t-s-u-k-i S-u-b-a-r-u? NatSUKI SuBARU! ~Natsuki Subaru~ I try to say the name in different voices in my soul yet it just doesn't feel right… I wish I had a tongue now.
I love you Natsuki Subaru and I'm so very sorry.
Her words hit me like Garfield's punch. Why was she sorry for? She shouldn't be sorry, not at all, especially being sorry for me. Was she sorry for me? Maybe, maybe not. I wish she wouldn't cry like that.
…
Who's Garfield?
Happy birthday, my beloved.
She came to me, her lips pressed against nothingness. She felt so cold yet so loving. It was an unnatural sensation, one that I would accept over and over again till my final thought.
So, it's my birthday?
"Ah!"
I awoke from my slumber, the first thing I saw was a ceiling. I know that ceiling, it's the one from my bedroom. I tried to stand up but felt a tug on my arm, small delicate hands were tugging on my arm.
What was that dream?
"Nrrghh."
I looked to my side, a child with golden twirls that spewed onto my bed held a sleeping face. I knew her, her name was Beatrice. It was the name her mother gave her or so she told me, but now I call her Beako.
I stared at her, her face was dreamy. How I loved her as a younger sister, although she would always complain and spew out that she was the older sibling in our relationship. I'm so glad we burned that library down, if I had to see her being cooped up in that depressing library that her mother entrusted her with anymore. I think my heart would shatter.
I lifted my other hand and caressed her golden head. I truly wish for the best of the best for her, she's gone through enough. She didn't need any more tragedies. I would make sure of that, as long as I'm breathing here next to her, I'll make sure her future will have a bright path.
"~Beako~"
I said as I lightly tapped her, we needed to get up. Well, I needed to get to be more exact, I needed to go out and train then help out around the mansion then help out Emilia and finally help out Otto with all that paperwork.
Sheesh, so much to do in just one day.
How tiresome.
I think that but the joy in my heart simply wouldn't go away.
"Mrrgh, five more minutesss."
I chuckled at how crass Beako was acting. Since when did she pick that attitude of mine?
"Alright, just five minutes, kay?"
"~Kaayy~"
And without a hitch, she snored her way to sleep once more. I watched her with a gentle smile on my face, then I viewed the window. The curtains were draped over the window, only a sliver of light pierced through it.
"Mmm, it's already a little bit past morning. Sheesh, how lazy can I be?"
I watched the window for a couple more moments before a thought occurred to me. What was that dream I had? I only vaguely remember it, but it felt so sweet, so comforting, so loving, somehow it was something I haven't felt for eons.
"It was–peaceful to say the least."
Another few moments passed until I heard the door to my room creak open. I looked back and viewed a beauty that radiated like the bluest of seas.
"~Good morning Subaru-Kun~"
Her smile was brilliant.
"Good morning… Rem."
I kept staring at her affectionately, I feared that if I removed my vision from her then she would be whisked away and disappear to who knows where. I wouldn't allow that, not now not ever. I needed Rem to stay.
"~If you kept on staring at Rem like that Subaru-Kun, then Rem won't know if she could keep her emotions in check~"
It took me a moment to process what she meant, and when it finally hit, I blushed like there was no tomorrow.
"Ehh! Urrh um uhh… I'm pretty sure a maid isn't supposed to tease their boss's knight like that…"
She giggled, her face turned into a mischievous expression.
"~This is but one of many privileges that Rem possesses, isn't that right Subaru-Kun?~"
I chuckled at the teasing of Rem. Who knew she could be such a teaser, maybe even more than Ram.
"Hehe, you got me beat there Rem."
We both giggled until silence filled the room. I stared at her lovingly and she stared back lovingly as well. We kept at it until a familiar voice interrupted the silence we basked ourselves in.
"Could you not be so lovey dovey in the morning I suppose."
I looked to my side, Beko rubbed her eyes with one hand while she held my arm with the other. Feeling like I'll never get another opportunity to pat her head, I went for it.
"Awhh, sorry about that. But know that you're awake, let's get dressed for the day. Shall we?"
"Hmph!"
The morning went on, Rem left to do her maid work, and me and Beako got up to dress. I was in the bathroom washing my face. As I looked at the mirror and onto my reflection I saw something. A smile.
"Whoa…"
I reached and gently touched my face, my fingers pulled and pushed my smile. Was this smile always here? How long has it been since I smiled a genuine smile? Have I ever been this happy before?
I looked at the running sink, water rigidly flowed from the tap. Somehow that was so alluring to me. To be able to flow without a care in the world, without stressing on whether tomorrow shall be your last. It was a dream I wanted to make into reality.
I walked out of my room, refreshed and cooled. Somehow I knew today was going to be a good day.
I walked down the enormous hallway, Somehow it felt so dreamy.
As I walked down, my thoughts started to swirl in my head. Beako had left me and said she was going to do something important and I should take my time on practicing my skills in the yard. Weird, she almost never comments on my training.
I wonder what she's up to. I mean, it's obvious that she's up to something, whether it was mischievous or something bland, I did not know.
"Daydreaming as always Barusu, I can feel your laziness contaminating the Milord mansion already. If it hadn't already happened."
Across from me was the familiar sight of pink, her tongue was sharp as ever, just how I remember it. I wish I was able to keep our banter alive.
Our banter alive? Is my mind still asleep? Ram and I banter still holds true to this day.
"Yo, Ram, I wouldn't say that if I were you."
"And what does that idiotic mouth of yours say that, Barusu?"
I tapped on my chin as I wore a smug smile. I leaned in slightly.
"If memory serves me right–"
"Your memory will always serve you wrong since it's a part of you."
I jolted back in surprise.
"Sheesh, I didn't even finish my sentence before you came after my heart!"
She huft as she replied to my display of hurt. "Now Barusu has a heart? What a surprise."
My expression changed at her reply. What did she mean by that? I always had a heart. Never lost it either.
"Huh? You're going to break me if you keep on talking like that!" My voice frail as to feign myself being hurt by Ram's words.
"..."
Ram kept quiet as she stared at me. Her eyes were sharp as if to say something yet I did not know what she was conveying. Before I could speak, she sighed heavily and said.
"Ahh, you really are Barusu. A shame really."
"Huh!? What's that supposed to mean?!"
"It means what it means, now go and do what a Barusu does."
Before I could defend myself, she walked off without looking back. A confused look came across me. What was that all about? Why did she say I have a heart now? Something felt off but I chalked it to just Ram's usual mannerisms.
As per routine, I walked through the hallways of the mansion; its elegant structure always making me feel as if I've been living in a dream. After all, living here has been a dream. A rather scary one but a good, great one as well.
As I neared my destination, a door greeted me. Emilia's door.
Knock Knock
Moments past, shuffling inside the room was Emilia. I awaited outside, my face eager as ever to see Emilia today. I wonder how she's doing today, hopefully well. But this election biz is really gaining on her. I wish I had studied politics more when I was in school.
"Coming! Coming!"
"Oiiiy ok! Take your time! Emilia-Tan."
Another set of moments passed, and the door to Emilia's room opened to fully show a half-elf beauty. Her angelic amethyst eyes stared at me, her pale skin held no other competitor in beauty, and her silver hair was enticing as ever.
"Mmm, good morning Subaru."
Even her voice rang like holy silver bells. Man… She's beautiful.
"And goooood mooorning to you Emilia-Taaan!"
I peeked around her. Her desk was filled with scattered paper and books. It saddens me to see her studying so early, yet it brought more joy to know Emilia was serious about wanting to win this…Not that I ever doubted her about it.
"Working hard as ever, ehh Emilia-Tan? You know you should really let yourself have a day off for your mental health."
"Oh, you're right and I will. After I'm done studying the economics of the world."
"I'm glad to hear it!"
I gave her a toothy smile.
"Mmm, I'll be down for breakfast when the time is right."
"Yeah same, I'll be out practicing in the yard."
"I see. Have a good practice, my Subaru."
Her words hit me like a freight train. My Subaru? Those words, I couldn't help but blush and meekly look away. My Subaru. Those words were like a dream. My Subaru. How I yearned to be called that over and over again. My Subaru.
"Uah! Yup Yup! Well um uhh uhm, study hard Emilia-Tan!"
Those words came out like a jumbled mess. She giggled at my expense, jeez how adorable. She gave me a goodbye and closed the door. I sighed and walked away from her room. My cheeks were still burning from the tease.
"Argh! Alright to focus!"
I slapped my cheeks as I refocused my mind on the tasks at hand.
Yet I felt a strange sensation in my heart.
…
I neared the front doors of the mansion, there was no one in sight. Fredrica and Petra must be cooking or cleaning somewhere else…
Ah! That's right! Emilia's morning spirit talking thingy! Wonder what it's called? Um, something like Spirit daily communications…?
Anyways, she always gets up in the morning to do that kind of stuff, never missing a beat. Maybe she already did it? Ehh, I'll leave Emilia to Emilia, after all, she's becoming a grown woman. Wouldn't want to ruin her progress with my nagging.
With my thoughts finished. I walked out of the mansion and into the world of miracles–And death.
The sun's rays shone down on me like a loving mother and the winds showered me in its loving grace. Today was a good day for training.
…
"Argh! Ack! Darkakakakakak!"
I thrashed my whip about with no particular target in hand. I needed to master how to whip without hitting myself. And if I do say so myself, I'm becoming pretty efficient with it. Maybe in a couple of months I'll be able to master how to efficiently hit a target while parkouring.
"Hadadada!"
I watched as the end of the whip snapped towards the ground, the air roared out and a small dent was left at its wake.
"Huft!"
I swirled and twirled the entire length of the whip around me, almost as if I was dancing with it. The sharp distinct snaps followed suit.
"Uff! Ahh! Gurft! Hak!"
I kept on dancing a fierce dance until a voice rang out.
"I see you're working hard as ever. Subaru."
I turned my head to view the man who spoke with such kindness in his words. But that was a mistake. The whip came crashing down onto my side, a sharp pain elicited a cry of agony from me.
"Ah! Alright you alright Subaru!?"
The same voice that was filled with unfathomable kindness made its way next to me. Spiky red hair entered my peripheral view. He spoke again with the same unfathomable kindness.
"Are you alright Subaru? Should I get a healer?"
"Hehe, it's alright Rein. Really!"
I rubbed my bruised side, it stung horribly. No matter what pain is inflicted on me, I'll never get used to it, but my acting skills have come far.
"... Alright then."
I viewed his face. His expression was one of hesitation and confusion, but alas it quickly changed to a kind one.
"Jeez Rein, distracting one from training isn't knightly at alllll."
I saw his expression turn into a sad and regretful one. Jeez, the guy really can't tell the difference in jokes.
"I'm sorry Subaru, I should of–"
"Jeez, I'm joking I'm joking! No need for that heartfelt apology of yours. Save it for someone who needs it."
Reinhard's expression changed again, one of relief. I really should teach him how to tell things apart. Hehe, Funny how the Sword Saint, the all-powerful, is socially awkward.
"Ah, then I am relieved then."
"Yeah yeah, but can I ask you a question?"
"Most certainly friend."
I paused for a moment. Friend… The word struck me as odd but I couldn't put my finger as to why.
"Subaru?"
He called out to me. Damn, I must have been zoning out.
"Oh! Uh, sorry about that–"
"There's no need to be sorry as you say."
"Heh, using my words against me now?"
"I'm just humbly using the wisdom of a friend. That's all."
"So you say, so you say. Anyways, I'm glad to see you but um why are you here?"
He looked at me, there was something in his eyes that I couldn't discern. Was it caution or happiness?
"I had received an important message, and while Lady felt, regrettably, could not make it so she sent me in her stead instead. I hope I haven't truly troubled you"
I waved my hand dismissively. Rein could never trouble me, in fact, I wonder if I had troubled him before.
"Nah, I was just wondering, and what's this about important message you received from us?"
"I'm truly sorry friend but I am not in any way able to disclose that information. Even if you're the knight of Lady Emilia."
Reinhard said as his face turned gloomy. Mmm, wonder what this is all about? Why can't he tell me? Who sent that message to him? It had to go through Otto so maybe he knows but why hadn't Emilia told me about it? Did she forget?
I wasn't happy at the thought of Emilia forgetting to tell me that Reinhard would appear today but neither was I unhappy.
"Ahhh, it's fine. Go about your biz, I'll find out why I wasn't informed later in the day."
"Yes, certainly. It is regretful but I'm sure Lady Emilia had a most important reason as to why. So please don't feel down Subaru."
I waved my hand dismissively, trying to act as if the thought of Emilia not informing me of such things didn't hurt my pride or my trust.
"Nah nah, like I said, I'll find the reason why. But–Be careful, since you're here I'm sure–"
Before I had time to finish my warning, a great roar came out of the forest. One that I'm all too familiar with. So much so that I can call that roar a brother from a different mother.
"Cap'tain!"
"Ahh, too late."
Both me and Reinhard turned out heads to see an orange dirtied feline tiger come out of the forest. That tiger being one of my brothers, Garfield.
I give a wry smile as I see Garfield's eye target Reinhardt. Ahhhh, and here I thought today was going to be peaceful.
"ARRRAGHHHH! ACKRGAH! FRUUAAAHHHH!"
Sigh
I watched them clash, claws on wood, wood on claws.
Dirt spurted from the dented ground as they rumbled about. I felt the ground beneath me tremble in awe as they battled with one another.
Garfield held a battled frenzied expression, each hit he received only making him go wilder. On the other hand, Reinhard, my benevolent friend, held a more stoic expression, each attack he dished growing stronger, a sign of respect towards Garfield.
I, on the other hand, held a bored expression. Watching them both battle knowing who the final victory would be, was for all intents and purposes, boring. Not that I find the battle uninteresting. In and of itself, the battle was something to gawk at.
"Ahh, that brother of mine, making important guest fight like this."
"Ehh, Rein doesn't seem to mind. But Rein never seems to mind things like this, so maybe it is a problem."
"Still."
The person to whom I spoke was none other than Frederica, the previous head maid of the Roswaal Mansion. Her worry and disappointment are apparent in her voice and words. I kinda don't blame her, but I also don't understand her as well.
She's-presumedly- disappointed at Garf who requested a dual under the guise of becoming stronger. But in reality, anyone with a shred of intelligence would figure out that Garf simply wanted to fight the named legend 'The Sword Saint.'
What I don't understand is her disappointment at Garf for requesting it. Garf wasn't rude-Although my version of rude could be obscured- about it, and Rein accepted the dual wholeheartedly.
Both agreed, and both fought with no qualms.
Maybe I don't understand her because I'm not his sister, and I'm not a maid risen to be respectful and elegant to the fullest.
"ACKAKAKAKAKAKAK!"
"Jeez, Garf just came up with a new roar. Lol."
"I don't know what a 'Lol' is, but yes. That is Garfield's nature."
We both watched in silence as Garf gets pummeled and weaved around, he had not landed a single punch, let alone a single graze on Rein. But that's just the nature of Rein, the strongest of the strongest…
"He seems like a child when he's all fired up like that."
"Garfield has always been like this since we were little. He would constantly and annoyingly ask me to spar with him–"
"But you couldn't deny it, could you."
"-No I could not. Wherever I see that child-like spark in his eyes—-I simply crumble… Don't tell Garfield about this."
"My lips are sealed tighter than even the most sealed prisons in the world."
"Thank you, Subaru-Sama."
What a wonderful and loving sister you have, Garf. Wish I had one, but all I got was Ram…
"Acho!"
"Nee-San? Are you alright? Did A cold strike you? If you allow it, I can take over your duties."
Ram sniffled as she replied, "No it's fine, Just felt like someone was saying something about me…"
"It must be something wonderful then. After all, Rem's nee-san is without major flaws."
"Sure…" Barusu I swear–
Knock Knock
"Yooo Otto in there? Ah, it doesn't matter. I'm coming in!"
I swung the door to Otto's office wide open. Behind the paper landfill was a long grey-haired fiend, the camp's slave worker, my friend, and my brother from another mother, Otto Suwen.
"Haaaa, you always barge in whenever you like, why even ask for my permission?"
"I didn't."
"Yes, that much is obvious."
I waved my hand dismissively "Ehh, don't be so butthurt about it, like I saying in my hometown 'Don't worry about it!'"
"..."
The silence rang out loudly.
"You get it? 'Don't worry about it!' as in you should not worry about the small inconveniences in–"
"Yes, Yes I get it. Just wish I was able to do such a thing, but I'm incapable of it or so it seems."
I shot him finger guns as he sighed.
"That sounds like… A you problem."
He let out a roar of a sigh as he looked at me dead in the eye. Annoyance filled them.
"Did you come here to just bully me? If so then shoo! I need to finish these papers before Roswaal-Sama breathes down my neck."
I grabbed a hold of my chest, expressing how crestfallen I became. "Ahhh, my friend, wished for my departion?! But it's too soon."
I watched with a peeking eye as Otto waved his hand dismissively. "Yes, that's exactly right. Now shoo. Begone foul beast!"
I fell to my knees and cried crocodile tears. "Argh! This betrayal! It hurts more than a sword's steel by a tenfold!"
I heard Otto's voice fill with superiority as he spoke. "Good, very good. Now you understand my abhor for being in this position."
I quickly stood up, a smug on my face. "Nah, I will never understand since I'm not at your position sir slaveee."
"Ahhhhhh." Otto drooped his head low before rising it back up. He held a feigned sad expression. We both stared at each other in silence.
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"..."
"Pfftt!"
I couldn't hold it in, the dreaded laughter I tried to bottle up escaped my lips.
"Pffhahah!"
Otto's laughter escaped his lips as well, a smile full of blissful joyous beamed from him.
Our Laughter echoed through the room. Our smiles were unwavering at the hilarious antics we participated in. Tears of joy welled in my eyes, I'm so glad to call Otto my brother from another mother.
I'm so glad he stuck with me.
I'm glad that Otto was born.
I walked down one of the corridors of the mansion. I left Otto to his devices as he said 'I'm alright Natsuki-San, I'm almost done so go about your day.'
So I did exactly that.
I tapped my forehead as I try to recollect on what's next on the agenda. Oh! That's right, even if I'm not a butler anymore I can still help around the mansion. If I don't my butlery skills will become rusty. And I'll feel bad for having the maids doing all the work.
But knowing Rem and Frederica, they're probably almost done with today's chores. Damn, they sure work fast.
As I walk down the corridor, I spot an orange-haired child, her uniform of that of a maid. My relationship with her was akin to me being her older brother of sorts, although I have an odd suspicion that's now what she views me as.
Her little maid's arms were vigorously cleaning the corridor, her back turned to me. I called for her.
"Heya Petra, working hard as always? Damn before we know it, we're going to get cps on us."
She turned to face me, a smile and a slight blush present on her face.
"I have zero clue what 'cps' is but I'm sure with you here they won't have a chance of getting us."
Her smile bloomed brightly. Argh! My heart, it's going to explode into a thousand pieces!
"AH! That's way too much confidence placed on me!"
"Yes, that is very true, if anyone else said the same I would think of them as delusional–"
"Arck! Wait no! My soul…!"
"-But, because it's you Subaru and I've seeeen the wonderful things you can do. I whoooleheartly believe in you."
She looked at me with an even more bright smile, a bolder blush adorned her. Gosh, how cuter can Petra get! No stay focused! Emilia and Rem are number one, and then Beako! I can't let Beako spot be taken!
"Ahhh, I don't know whether to take that as a compliment or be concerned with how you view me–"
Petra's cute flowery smile turned into a pout filled with irritation. She puffed up her chest and crossed her arms.
"MMhph! And here I was acting all cutely and you just ruin it!"
"That's my job. Best ruiner in lugunica, Natsuki Subaru! Anyways, do you guys need help with anything?"
She tapped her cheek in thought, her face was scrunched up in thought. Ah, so they're probably already finished with everything. Jeez and it's only noon! Crazy how much cleaning power Rem, Fred, And Petra have when they're in the same building.
Petra started to giggle, her pout vanished and her childish side took over. I chuckled alongside her. Our boff resonated in the corridor before turning silent.
I scratched my cheek, "Ahh, well if there isn't anything for me to do then–"
"Actually there is something you can do for us."
Ah, so there is something I can be used for. Wonder what it could be. "Oh? Well, you name it and I'll get it done faster than flash could."
She shook her head in disbelief, "Your choices of words confuse me even more. But that's Subaru, anyways, we're kindaaa out of food and other stuff, so youuu please go out to the village and get some?"
Ah, so a supply run. Nothing I can't handle, easy set and done.
"Alright, leave it to me!"
Burrgh Bffurghh
"I'll only take a minute Patrasche…"
Huurgh Mgghhh
I rubbed Patrasche rough scales as I ready myself to head out. In my pocket I had a list of things that needed to be restocked, courtesy of Petra.
"Alright, I'm heading out."
Urkaka Furya
"Sure, I'll get some snacks for you."
I departed from my adorable and reliable ground dragon, Patrasche, and made my way towards the village.
I was greeted by the village folk, their smile and adoration shining brightly upon me. Ahh, I got zero clue as to why they look at me the way they do, most of my achievements were at the hands of others not mine.
I feel rather guilty seeing their praise.
As I maneuver my way through the chattering residents, I spot a rather particular flower bed. Purple and yellow Hyacinth, pink Hydrangea, Yellow Tulip, and White Tulip were stacked next to each other neatly.
It was beautiful to say the least, it also touched my heart in some weird cosmic way. A way I couldn't put my finger on. Something about these flowers just… Mean something to me.
Mmm…
Nonetheless, I made my way towards the store where we regularly get our supplies at. I saw the same burly bearded man behind his counter. He waved at me and I waved back. A small smile adorned his face.
It seemed everyone was in a good mood today.
"Hello there Natsuki. Here for a supply run I assume?"
"You guessed it! Just need a few things. Here, the paper."
I reached towards my pocket and took out the neatly folded notebook paper. He took the paper and unfolded it, he analyzed the wording before looking back at me with his kind eyes.
"Mmm, I'll be back, it'll be just a moment."
"No problem, I'll be here."
And with that, the burly bearded man walked into his backroom, paper in hand.
I crossed my arms as I waited. It really does seem like everyone was in a good mood Wonder what the special occasion was. Nah, I'm digging too deep into it. What really needs to be investigated is why Rein was called–
"Ah! That's what I forgot! Tch."
I completely forgot to ask Otto about that letter Rein received. Tch! And here I am pottering around. Wait, who says pottering anymore? Wait no! That's my line to Emilia, not mine! Geez, It seems Emilia's mannerisms are getting the best of me.
Sigh
But on a real note, I should ask Otto about the letter first thing when I go back to the mansion. Can't believe that even slipped out my mind, I wholeheartedly blame Otto.
"Oh Oh, I'm back."
The burly bearded man from before stepped out of the backroom with two large barrels. Unease consumed me, just how am I getting this back to the carriage?
"Achoo! Urghh. Just where did that horrible sneeze come from?"
Otto asked himself as he wiped his nose with a tissue. The other residents looked at him rather disgusted.
"Otto, please leave if your sick. I wouldn't want Subaru's cake to be covered in Snot, especially yours."
One said.
"Ottotto, yes please leave if you're sick, it's already bad enough you ruined the cookies."
Another said.
"Yes, correction, you already contaminated the mansion with your disease self. Anymore, well, I fear for the worse."
Otto, shocked from the ongoing onslaught that was being committed to him, stood up for himself.
"Well,Um huh!"
Otto did a poor job of defending himself.
"Heavo! Oh!"
I wipe the sweat that accumulated on my brow. I had just finished putting the barrels in the carriage, just what are in these barrels?! I mean I know what is in there but still, why does food weigh so heavily?
I could have seriously broke my back!
Not like it would have been detrimental, after all, we have healers here and I have Beako at home. Any injury would just be swatted away, unless I lose a arm, get eaten, burned alive, have a gaping hole through my chest, have my brain splattered–
Whoa whoa whoa! When did I get so morbid?
I rubbed my chin as I thought about that question. I mean, I have always been morbid but, mmm… I guess dying just does that to you.
Sigh
Enough of this.
I headed over to Patrasche who was idly waiting for me.
"You ready to go?"
Brughaa Kurghaaa
"Yeah Yeah, here's your snacks. Eat up."
I picked my pocket and took out Patrasche's favorite snack, berries mixed with meat cubes.
Patrasche lowers her head and eats her snack with delicacy. Her sounds of satisfaction elicited a smile from me.
I shake my hand to get rid of the slobber that it gained. Gross but it can't be helped. Afterward, I climbed onto the driver seat. I grabbed hold of the reins and snapped it. Patrasche let out a low screech and set off towards the mansion.
…
The ride went smoothly and silently, mostly due to me being by myself since Patrasche can't um really talk 'Human' or more accurately 'Od luginica' which was the common language of this world.
Makes me wonder how I'm able to speak it in the first place. Was I given the knowledge when I was summoned here? Did the world give me the knowledge? I have zero clue and I'll probably never find out the answer. So let's chalk it up to 'Isekai privileges.'
Probably the only privilege I have here. Everything else I had to find and study on my own.
Sigh
You know, I'm probably sighing more today than I do in a month.
Sigh
Yup definitely.
Kurrrha drrkkkk
Patrache growled out as she came to a halt. Her body low to the ground as if she was on high alert.
"What's wrong girl?"
Kruughh Grrrrgh
Her growling instisfying was her answer.
Something was wrong, something horrible was wrong. Patrasche wouldn't act like this unless she was worried about me.
"Easy, easy."
I jumped down from the driver seat, Patrasche alert as ever but her eyes were fixated in front of her. I slowly walked forward, my own sense on high alert. I felt uneasy, what can make Patrasche so alert?
As I came forward, I saw it.
Ah, I seen it.
It hurts.
It hurts.
What, why?!
I clutch my head.
No Stop!
I don't want– I don't need it!
Leave me alone!
Why!
▒▒▒▒!
"Surprise!"
They said in unison, their faces holding gleeful smiles. They had just surprised Subaru when he came to the front entrance of the mansion.
"Whoa! What's all this?!"
He gazed around in awe, everyone he knew from the mansion, and Reinhardt, was present with party hats or confetti guns. They blew those confetti guns and spewed the air with colorful pieces of paper.
"Happy Birthday Subaru!"
Birthday? He thought as he smiled a nervous smile.
They chatted endlessly, all holding smiles as they celebrated Natsuki Subaru's birthday. He was utterly awe-struck that they would even remember his birthday, so to see them hold a celebration for it. It was supposed to make his heart shudder in a way he didn't think was possible.
But it didn't.
"Happy birthday Subaru-san"
"Happyer birthday cap'tin!"
"Happy birthday Barusu. Relish in my words since I won't say them again."
"Happy birthday Subaru-Kun!"
"Happy birthday my friend, Subaru."
"Haaaaapyy birthdaaaay Naaatsuki Suuubaaaruuu."
"Happy birthday Subaru-Sama."
Happy birthday Subaru! I mean Subaru-Sama!"
"Happy birthday, I suppose."
Their smiles were distorted.
"Happy birthday yong Su."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
The world twisted and turned.
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
Happy birthday they said.
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
Happy birthday Subaru, they chanted it like it was a ritual.
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
Happy birthday, their faces began to fade.
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
"Happy birthday Subaru."
Happy birthday to me I guess.
In the cell, in a far far away desolate prison was a boy. He had nothing except the comfort of the madding darkness. His bloody wrist shackled to the wall like a criminal, his body deadly thin and pale, his eyes deep with bags and sunken. His ears were torn to bits like a diseased dog.
He only wore a thin piece of dirtied rag to hide his scarred-filled body. Each scar twisted and knotted as to tell a piece of a tale, each one was filled with nightmarish reality. They told a tragic story, his tragic story.
In the desolate cell, droplets of water screamed as they hit the floor beneath them. The silence was unbearable. So unbearable.
He rocked back and forth like a child, whispering to himself as his gums and lips crack from his nearly silent breathing.
"Happy birthday."
He whispered, his mind detached from the reality in front of him. He couldn't handle reality, he couldn't handle the loss, the screams for help, the agonized yells that called for him. He couldn't handle how much he had failed them.
"Happy birthday."
So his mind took the best course of action to save his sanity. Trapped in his own mind, in his own delusions. That was the best course.
And when the delusions come to an end.
He ends his life.
"Happy birthday Subaru."
Uhh Happy late birthday Subaru!
In all honesty, I hate this story. I didn't like how it came out but I'm too lazy to fix it, I think you can tell where I kinda gave up on the story.
URGH!
I'm disappointed in myself for giving up but oh well. Next April 1st I'll make sure to write something decent and on time.
I also tried to write first-person since I mostly write in third-person. Trying to give myself a challenge you see.
And for context, since this story really doesn't explain anything. (Sadness) This story takes place in the greed if timeline where Greed Subaru fucked up or sum and is now chained for however long. Why was Satella in the beginning? uhh use your imagination
How did he become like this? (Get jailed, lose his mind, etc.) Well, uhh again use your imagination. It's really up to interpretation. (Because I suck and couldn't think of a reason...)
Anyways, sorry for the shitty story.
Until next time.
Sincerely SUFFERING FANATIC
