Author's Notes: It's only been about a single day and I have to say that I am thankful for all the reviews I have been getting. But, I think there is a big elephant in the room that I need to get out of the way right from the start. If anyone is hoping this is going to be some kind of Death Battle themed series, you'll be disappointed.

One of my main desires is to explore a Subaru who is helped to get on his feet and no longer be a victim of everything around him. No more acting the try-hard. No more simping over Emilia to try and act like a hero in front of her. And absolutely no more being led around by the balls and being everyone's chew toy.

This will not be an OP Subaru, but he also will not be a powerless Subaru. Beware if you're on his shit list, but to those who've done him no wrong, he will not be throwing his weight around toward them. Also, Subaru will be justly rewarded for his contributions to Nazarick.

Nazarick is not in Lugunica, or the Re:Zero world. Ainz will not be appearing yet. Also, this Ainz will be 100ish years older and is no longer pretending in his role as Overlord. Many victories and advances have fallen into his hands that have allowed him new opportunities to send his subordinates on little field trips for work.

"Sebas...Tian?" Subaru repeated the name and he instantly found it to be familiar. If he wasn't in such a state of shock at the strangeness of the old man, he would have probably found it to be amusing that he had such a typical butler name.

"And so, who might you be, young one who punches walls?"

"Me?" I-I'm Subaru Natsuki." The Japanese teenager immediately felt a little bit inferior because his name was so unimpressive in comparison. Usually in a situation like this he would have pointed a finger into the sky and done a silly pose while introducing himself. But he just didn't seem to have the energy to summon in the presence of this man.

A hand rose to stroke his beard, with Sebas' eyes closing in thought. "Ah, Subaru is it? Like the stars? A fantastic name, to be sure." Sebas was immediately reminded of six armored women who served as his subordinates and how they might respond to learning this boy was named for their union.

Frozen in surprise, Subaru was so unaccustomed at this point to any sort of compliments or kind treatment that he simply didn't know how to respond to the gentleness of the old man's words.

"So then, I believe you were shouting out for assistance? What seems to be the problem? I hardly believe it was simply the matter of your hand."

Managing a feeble chuckle, Subaru placed a hand on his hip to inquire, "What made you think it was any more than that? My hand was pretty messed up due to my own recklessness, ya know?" Even if this old man had been kind enough to come and heal his injury, there was simply no way Subaru could burden him with his problems. He was a complete stranger. And probably affiliated with one of the nobles from the wealthy area of the city. After all, he had just found from experience that associating with these types came with a price tag he just couldn't afford. Everybody wanted something. And he couldn't make the down payment.

"Because I can tell by the look in your eyes. You could simply call this a trick of we who are old. It is oftentimes apparent when one who is young is crying out for help. So then, what seems to be troubling you so?" over the last hundred or so years, Sebas Tian had become accustomed to having conversations like this, especially with young people. Due to the expansion of his responsibilities, he had taken upon himself to dispensing advice to those who were young when he was able.

The commentary on the look in his eyes immediately reminded Subaru of the unfruitful interaction he had with the Karsten duchess. He found it to be somewhat troublesome that so many people seemed to want to be psychiatrists and judge people's emotional states by just a look in their eyes. However, Subaru found it to be comforting that the elderly butler did not hold even a single twinge of judgment.

"Well, you'd be right on the money." He let out a massive sigh, a dark cloud seeming to overshadow his already crestfallen face. "But, I can't trouble you with this. It would be too rude to drag you into something that doesn't involve you. Besides, you look like a real top-grade butler. I'd be embarrassed if I got you, or your employer into any kind of trouble." Desperate as he was for assistance, something inside Subaru Natsuki told him that the fewer people involved, the better. With the way things usually ended for him, the second something went wrong, he alone would shoulder the blame. He couldn't put any extra strain on his shoulders. Or piss off an unknown aristocrat. "I mean, why would you even wanna help me? I must look pretty lame, sitting here in a random alley and moaning for help."

While expecting him to agree with his words, Sebas, to his surprise, did the opposite. "You are incorrect, Subaru. Whatever fix you may have found yourself in, you have already traveled the path of strength." Though the words may have been encouraging, they couldn't have sounded less fitting for someone like himself. Strong? Himself? He had more failures on his record than successes. And the downs were honestly a lot bigger than the ups. Yes, he was in this unwinnable nightmare because he failed on a level so spectacular that it probably could never be forgiven. What about him, Subaru Natsuki could ever be called strong?

Sebas gave him the answer. "These worlds, Subaru Natsuki. They are harsh. Unforgiving. And from this harshness, many people simply give up and find themselves right where you are at this very moment. I am not one who is obliged to grant assistance to those who can only hope against hope that salvation will appear in front of them by something as unreliable as a miracle. Such people will only ever want for others to pick them up and do for them what they cannot for themselves. It is a cycle of helplessness that does no good for either party, Subaru."

His words may have sounded spartan, but there was indeed an element of truth to them. On his very first day in his country, Subaru had already experienced the same thing when he explored the slums. He immediately recalled how she Felt spat on how her fellow slum dwellers told others to "live strong" when they did nothing about their situation. Felt may have been poor, but she had never succumbed to the chains of poverty. Even if it was through thievery, she had been determined to lift herself up into something different. Was that why she had been chosen as a Dragon Priestess? Was there something special about Felt in that way? Did the Dragon see potential in her like that?

"But...what if it can't be done? What if there's a 100% chance of failure?" from the position that he was in, Subaru just couldn't see any chance of success. He had tried to go it alone. It didn't work period he tried to ask the other candidates for assistance, and it didn't work because of their difficult personalities and his inability to explain the full situation. Even the royal knights would not mobilize.

"Subaru, life is oftentimes not about what can or cannot be done. It is about doing it, or not doing it. If you wish to see your goals met, you must face your opposition with unyielding resolve until the very end." Sebas was of the belief that no matter what, there would always be prey, and there would always be predators. But even if one was at a disadvantage, not taking up their sword only doomed them to certain defeat. But when one chose to resist until the end? All sorts of things could happen.

And perhaps that was why he was here at this very moment.

"So then, Subaru Natsuki. Do you want to fight? Or do you want something else?"

The Japanese teen's hands curled into fists. Something consumed him, but unlike earlier, it wasn't the hateful vitriol he felt toward everything around him. No, this time it felt like something closer to conviction. Giving up? What would that get him? Begging for help? That clearly didn't work. "I want..." What did he want? He knew. He knew now that he couldn't keep on the way he had since he came to this world. So many of his problems had come about because all Subaru did was react to things as they happened. He never made any plans. He wasn't trying to better himself and actually live strong. Like Felt.

"I want..." He wanted something different. He wanted to stop being such a goddamn victim! Subaru Natsuki was a victim of his inability to control his emotions. That was why he lashed out in the royal selection. That was why he disobeyed Emilia's instructions. It was why he couldn't come up with a concise argument to convince others to rally to his aid. He was a victim of his poor choices that kept leading him into places like this. And he wanted it to stop. Where would acting like this get him? Nowhere. He'd just get more of the same unless he did something different.

And it was at this point that Subaru Natsuki knew. His head rose, and the nasty-eyed teenager met the eyes of the butler to give his answer, his young gaze burning with a determination that purged anger and replaced it with focused steel. "I want to fight, and I want to win!" Subaru was absolutely sick of trailing behind everything. He was sick of being the one who always had to plead his case and climb mountains to correct misunderstandings and to prevent tragedies. "But, if I wanna win, I need things I don't have. I want strength. But to get strength, I also need to be strong." He didn't even know where he came up with something like that, but Subaru had the feeling that having strength and being strong were not necessarily the same thing. But in order to navigate this world that didn't care one whit about him, he needed both of them.

Snapping him out of his thoughts, Subaru felt Sebas' hand land on his shoulder. The eyes of the two men connected, and with a look of satisfaction, Sebas spoke. "A man who has come to such an answer, is most certainly a man I believe to be worth lending assistance."

Silence took over because Subaru simply couldn't believe what he was hearing. Was this all it took? Did he explain himself so much better to this old man than he did those three women that it made such a difference? Or, was it that Sebas was a being cut from a different cloth? "What's the catch?" For once in his life, he controlled his excitement. He wasn't going to rejoice. Not just yet. Nothing had been finalized. What with his last three interactions when asking for help, Subaru had become forced to understand that almost nobody would do something for free. What did this old man want in return? Especially when he didn't even know the full situation?

"I believe we can discuss the specifics later. Preferably in a different location that isn't a back alley. We might look suspicious if we idle in such a place."

Seconds later, Subaru couldn't help but choke out a laugh that seemed to expel a breath of negativity from his soul. Even if nothing came from this conversation, he was glad to have met with Sebas. He certainly had a way with words, to be sure. Nobody had given Subaru such words of encouragement that made him believe he was capable of evolving. "You're right. Let's discuss the dirty details somewhere else!"

Rem raced through the streets of the capital with a solemn expression on her face. She had completed her objective, but she was not bringing positive news. She had reported the movements of the Witch Cult to the knight's garrison. But in the end, she was not given a stellar response.

The blue-haired maid could only wonder what her hero would say when he heard this ill report. He was already in such an unstable state. But even still, Rem would follow his lead without hesitation. She had already come to accept that as strange as her hero could be at times, he had a way of knowing when danger was afoot. This sense of knowing had already turned into her salvation during that mess in the forest involving all those mabeasts.

She had absolutely no reason to doubt him.

"Yes, it is clearly his frustration in others not having the same faith in him that has led him to this frantic behavior." Other people did not know the goodness of her Subaru. They had only seen his flaws. But people were made whole from those flaws, Rem thought. Indeed, he was her hero who had made her believe that she was more than simply a stepping stool for her beloved older sister. His words had given her the will to be as fanatical as a demon.

No matter who turned him away, she, his Rem, would always stand by his side. But to do that, she had to find him.

"Oh Subaru, where have you...eh?"

The blue-haired maid had been running across the rooftops in hopes of catching a glimpse of the scent of her fellow employee. She hadn't expected him to drift off so far. She knew that time was of the essence and didn't want to waste even a single second loitering about. But to her surprise, on the ground, she saw that familiar head of black hair. After all, few people in this country looked the way Subaru did. But that was not what most caught her attention. He was not alone.

A man dressed as a butler was accompanying him. And the two of them seemed to be engaged in conversation. But what's more, her Subaru looked...happy. That expression of prolonged stress was nowhere to be seen. Just what had happened in the short period of time she had been away?

But, before Rem could even move to approach, the butler shifted his attention. He looked up onto the rooftops, and his eyes focused directly on Rem.

It wasn't as if she was trying to conceal herself, but she was easily more than 200 meters away, and not even on the ground level! How in the world did this man know she was looking at them from so far? For a moment, Rem was frozen in place before gathering herself.

Regardless, it didn't matter! She'd found who she was looking for and she needed to explain the situation.

With agility that would have embarrassed any athlete, Rem somersaulted off the three-story building, landing easily on the ground with no issue! Making haste, she sped out and appeared before her Subaru!

Her speed seemed to have brought with it a small amount of wind push back, and Subaru couldn't believe she had shown up out of nowhere!

"Rem! So there you are. I was just about to come looking for you."

She didn't know how to explain things to him. After all, nobody wanted to be disappointed when they were expecting good things. And so, she simply decided it was best to explain without making any excuses.

"I have great news!"

"Subaru, I have bad news."

Both of them spoke at the exact same time, but neither had expected it. And from this confliction of words, both of them stared at the other in silence. Just where exactly were they supposed to go from here?

Rubbing the back of his head with a bashful smile, Subaru took the lead and said, "Er, why don't you go first? Better to get the bad news out of the way right from the start. Let's just rip the band-aid off."

Subaru had already consumed his fill of bad news and disappointments for one day. He didn't feel as if anything less than a world-changing event could alter his current mood.

"I reported the covert maneuverings of the Witch Cult to the Knights' garrison. By invoking Master Roswaal's name, I was not dismissed immediately at the gate, but…"

The awkward wording and frail tone of her voice for the latter half pretty much told Subaru how that had gone down. Rem, Roswaal's servant, was more likely to be successful in spurring the Knights to action than Subaru, who had a grudge against them. Trying to exploit that was his final act of resistance, but…

"They didn't give you a good answer?" Even though he said this, his tone didn't descend into despair. This came as a surprise to Rem.

"…It would seem that the Knights have a jumble of similar reports. Few concrete details are known about the Witch Cult's underpinnings, and apparently, an endless stream of tips constantly flows in with no practical way to verify it."

"Ahh, I get it now. This is seriously like back when they had real witch trials… It ain't much of a joke if that's how the Witch Cult actually hides itself."

Subaru mulled over this information over for a few moments. He was instantly reminded of the failed negotiations with the Karsten duchess. One of the reasons she had turned down his request was because she didn't believe he actually knew where the Witch Cult was going to strike. The insinuation that he was secretly a member of that group of nefarious bastards was just a kick in the teeth.

Rem was in silent disbelief at how well her hero was taking this information. She was almost certain that he would do something like punching a wall in frustration. Not that she could blame him. This was not the kind of thing any person would craft a story about. And when it came to saving people who were in need, Subaru would not turn his head away. She was proof of this.

"And so? What is this good news?" She could only assume it involved this white-haired stranger, with whom Rem seemed to be avoiding eye contact.

Subaru's expression brightened into the one she loved most about him. "The good news is right here! He's gonna help us! He believes everything that I've told you and he doesn't think I'm some sort of nut-job!"

It was at this point that the eldest of the three of them finally decided to introduce himself once more. "I am Sebas Tian. I happened upon young Subaru when he appeared to be in need of assistance. And needless to say, I was impressed by his determination to not give into despair, despite the gravity of his situation. He has told me of how these Witch Cult fiends plan to massacre a village within the domain of your employer. Among other things."

From his tone, she did not detect any hint of aggression or suspicion. From this, the blue-haired maid could only conclude that the older man genuinely did believe the words of her hero. After all, what he had said perfectly described him. Subaru was indeed the sort of person who did not give up even when the situation looked hopeless. If he were, she would not be standing here the way she was today.

"Ah, where are my manners? Rem is Rem, a maid under the employ of Roswaal L. Mathers. It is a pleasure to meet someone who has placed such a high value on Subaru in such a time of need."

With a wave of his hand, Sebas dismissed her praise. "Please, think nothing of it. When one has the resolve to struggle through even the most desperate of situations, I find myself compelled to take an interest in them at times. But, I think this may not be the best place to continue such a conversation. In order to receive the full details, I believe we should convene with my associate in order to receive his input. I assure you, he is quite adept in matters such as this. Much more so than I."

With two claps of his hands, Subaru pointed into the distance and said, "And there you have it! We can finish this conversation when we have our last person in the party! Let's get to movin' everyone!"

Feeling that there was nothing more to be said here in the streets, the trio set off to parts only Sebas knew. One thing bothered Rem, though. It was oftentimes customary for those who were servants to not only introduce themselves by name, but also give the identity of the person or house that they served. Why hadn't Sebas done the same?

Considering that they were following the lead of a butler, it would not have been unusual to find themselves at the manor of some noble. But that was not where Subaru and Rem ended up. Rather, they were now walking through the front doors of a rather expensive-looking hotel.

Surprisingly, it was Subaru who said nothing on this matter. Though he had not come to a concrete conclusion, he had the feeling Sebas was not from around these parts, just like himself. Some things about him that he knew, Subaru was confident nobody else in this country knew about gave it away. However, he was not going to bring up the subject. Both because he didn't think it was important right at this moment and also because Subaru did not want to damage a good relation he had managed to forge. He needed to keep it cool. He needed to keep everything on subject. He needed to stay in control of himself. Mistakes could not be tolerated at this point.

"Now then, I pray that you will not take offense to my comrade. I warn you, he can be something of an extreme character at times. In spite of this, there are few people you could more rely on when you want to achieve results."

As far as Subaru was concerned, as long as the other half of this duo was willing to help, he couldn't care less what kind of personality the guy had. Now was not the time to be picky. It was either this or try with no help at all. And he already knew where that ended up going. "Never. Again."

They had traversed many stairs to come to this floor. And to no one's surprise, the suite rooms were very spread out. This was clearly a place for people who had money to spend.

As they arrived at their destination, Sebas unlocked the door and entered first. "I have returned. And I have also brought with me some interesting new associates who I believe will be helpful to us."

"Really? Is that so? Well, if Sebas has come to this conclusion, I look forward to seeing what is to come."

It was a male voice that came from another room. And seconds later, the owner of the voice made its appearance.

The man was actually only a couple of inches taller than Subaru. But aside from that, they could not have been more different in terms of physical appearance. His skin was tanned and his black hair was neatly swept back. The newcomer wore glasses that seemed to hide his very eyes behind the lenses, obscuring his visual expression from view. Like Sebas, the bespectacled man wore a suit. But it was not one that a butler would adorn. He was dressed in a red, pin-stripe suit of a western design. But what was most unusual about his look was the tail sheathed in silvery metal extended behind him, tipped by six sharp spikes.

From the very moment the man made his appearance, Subaru felt as if he could no longer breathe. The sensation of a hand grabbing onto his sleeve told him that Rem was feeling something similar.

Subaru had looked into the eyes of a psychopathic murderer, ravenous beasts who wouldn't think twice about ripping a person to shreds, and even his own comrade who had stared him down with cold, unfeeling eyes before sending him to his grave. And not a single one of those memories could compare to the feeling of pure evil that emanated from the man in red.

It was gone.

All mirth and light had seemingly vanished from the world.

Happiness died.

And in its stead was nothing but a neverending wave of hopelessness that existed in the presence of this...thing!

Subaru may have made jokes about being fanatical like a real demon. But it was just talk. Something he could say in order to pump himself up. He honestly had not been surprised by the presence of demihumans of all shapes and sizes from the moment he came to this world. But, he didn't truly think that he would ever encounter an entity like this. "This guy! Is he? I mean is he a real...?"

At his side, Rem shared in her hero's dumbstruck confusion. But, as opposed to him, she wasted very little time in thinking. She was able to speak out, though not with any tone of rebelliousness what her instincts screamed at her. "What...what in the world are you?" Her voice sounded like she'd swallowed sand and her words came out as dry.

The man in red merely smiled wordlessly. He knew what they were thinking Their minds were an open book and he had already read and memorized the contents a dozen times over in less than a minute.

"I believe a second introduction may be in order."

It was Sebas.

He had stepped in between them and the mysterious figure in the red suit. And after a few seconds, both Subaru and Rem felt as if that unnatural wave of coldness and dread had gone away. Or perhaps Sebas stepping in between had insulated them in some way.

"Ah, forgive me. I was not expecting an impromptu appearance from visitors. I believe I may have allowed myself to unnecessarily spill out into the room."

But neither Subaru nor Rem was sure if they believed that.

With a somewhat flamboyant bow, the man in red spoke, "I am Demiurge. I serve as the partner of Sebas while we are here in this foreign land. I hope that we can get along."

As the sensation of fear vanished, it was replaced by something else. Every time Demiurge spoke, the words didn't simply enter the ears of those present. Nay, his speech seemed to infiltrate one's very heart.

Somehow, Subaru was able to gather himself and managed to speak in a tone that resembled his usual confidence. "Nice to meet ya! To be completely honest with you, I was expecting another butler or maybe some gorgeous maids. But I guess it should be expected that a friend of Sebas would also be a guy in a really nice suit. You've got some really amazing taste!

Demiurge responded with an amused chuckle. And to the surprise of everyone here, Sebas included, he reciprocated. "You have my gratitude. This attire is one I wear with the greatest pride."

"Now then, I believe we should get down to the discussion. From what I gathered, Subaru is on something of a schedule and has very little time to waste. I do hope that we can come to a mutual agreement that is beneficial for all parties." Sebas was the one to direct things back to the desired path. It was probably better if they dispensed with for small talk.

In the living room of the suite sat a table with four sides. And conveniently, there were four people for this meeting.

"So, you are in desperate need of aid because this Witch Cult you speak of is going to soon attack the domain of your employer, do I have that correct?" Demiurge folded his hands into one another, a calm smile on his face as he analyzed the situation.

"Yes!" Subaru had already been through this situation multiple times. He wasn't going to screw this up. But, he got a similar feeling from Demiurge as he did to Crusch. The man in red didn't seem like the sort to do something for nothing. What was he going to ask of Subaru as payment for their assistance?

Demiurge was curious why this supposed employer of Subaru's did not have his own security force. In these sorts of situations, a defense team should be on guard against such surprise attacks, whether day or night. Such a thing was basic for anyone who claimed to be a landowner. Demiurge could only think that such a person either was wildly incompetent or perhaps viewed the people who live within their domain as being expendable. But, he had the feeling that there was something more to this. Yes, if a mere butler and maid were going this far to commission the aid of outsiders, why would they even be working for such a negligent person?

Subaru Natsuki knew more than he was saying, Demiurge sensed. But why wasn't he revealing everything?

"I'm gonna keep it real with you guys." Subaru began, about to put all the cards on the table. He knew this was a gamble that very well might not pay off. But he could not run the risk of making himself look untrustworthy. He had already experienced this and it ruined his chances of further conversation. "I can't explain how I know the Witch Cult is gonna attack. I want to, believe me! And if I could, I would. I wish I could give everything I have to put an end to those bastards once and for all. They deserve to be eliminated."

The way he used that last word was like a blade dipped in poison. And giving her first response since sitting down at the table, Rem nodded. She held absolutely no sympathy for Witch Cultists. And the very thought that they would dare walk onto her most important place with their filthy feet was unforgivable to her.

"I just have a way of knowing at times."

'It's true." Rem said, almost immediately. "Subaru has something of a sixth sense that warns him of impending dangers. And I can personally testify that it has come in useful once before in saving the very same village that he seeks to protect once more." She felt a sense of regret upon remembering what she once thought her Subaru was a suspicious individual. But now, Rem had come to understand that not all things in this world with people she didn't know were what they seemed.

"I see."

Demiurge found this to be very interesting. Dozens of different scenarios played out in his mind due to his superhuman processing ability. One of his first thought was that Subaru had some sort of divination skill that alerted him to an impending crisis. "But perhaps it only works in situations where he himself is going to be directly involved?" Either way, he had determined with absolute certainty that his hatred of the Witch Cult was true. Demiurge found such thoughts to be truly pleasing.

"It is also a possibility that if he voices or even hints at the true nature of his reasoning then he will suffer in some manner. That, I believe is why he is keeping certain things so close to the vest. Telling what he is able to speak on, but remaining silent on details that will be hazardous to himself. This is the sort of person who will throw himself into a fire in order to make sure others do not burn."

Demiurge could already understand why his associate had picked up this person.

But before he could continue, Subaru Natsuki hit them with something that even Demiurge did not expect. "There's more."

"I'm sorry to dump this extra stuff on you guys. But there's something else I hafta ask for assistance on. And it's big. Like, really big."

"I also have reason to believe the White Whale is a puppet of sorts of the Witch Cult and that it will be showing up sometime before those bastards attack Roswaal's domain."

"White...Whale?" This time it was Sebas who spoke, not being familiar with this term. One of the last things he had expected was to be confronted with the issue of a marine creature. Also, he didn't know if they were near any oceans.

Subaru knew that he was asking for a lot of trust. But he had his reasons. If it was true that the whale was some sort of instrument of the Witch Cult, then it had to be dealt with as well. Not simply because he had encountered the ferocity of the beast in a failed loop, but because there was no way those two events happened so close together out of coincidence. If he was going to attack the Cult, he wasn't going to do a half-assed job.

"The White Whale is one of the three great mabeasts, created by the Witch of Envy. It has ravaged the entire continent for around four centuries, killing anything in its way with absolutely no rhyme or reason." Rem, being the native of this world knew more about the history of the creature than Subaru himself. He was glad she was here to smooth things out for him in regards to things he didn't know. "The whale has swallowed villages and towns, leaving nothing but bloodshed in its wake. It flies through the skies and brings with it a ghostly mist that conceals its presence. Because of this, it has been impossible to track its movements or know where it flees to."

Sitting back in his chair, Demiurge responded, "I see. How interesting." Though she didn't know it, the maid had just revealed far more information than she probably intended. If this was a creature that attacked so suddenly and from the air, that communicated to Demiurge that the ability to fly was not something particularly common in this world. As far as he was concerned, if a sudden mist crept up on one out of nowhere, the obvious solution would have been to vacate the area as soon as possible, most preferably by teleportation before any sort of unexpected assault took place. Did that mean that the people here were incapable of such things? "Even the lowly people who have barely mastered 5 tiers are capable of the basic [Teleportation] spell."

"And you believe it to be most prudent to destroy both of these targets in one fell swoop, giving them no time to retaliate. Is that right?"

Subaru immediately nodded. "Exactly. The White Whale might be seen as some symbol of calamity, but at the end of the day, it's just a real big mabeast attacking places for no reason. It can't be compared to an animal who's an apex predator y'know? But the Witch Cult is different. Those scum show up in the middle of the night and attack the most defenseless people and placed, giving them no time to defend themselves. They've made people think they're some kind of devils, but they're not! They're just madmen who should be taken off the board by any means necessary Who's gonna even cry if trash like them vanish from the world? I've tried to explain this to other people, but they were all too selfish or too cowardly to move. Nothing's going to change unless people do something. And until the people with power get off their asses, all they'll get is more of the same."

"It should happen in a flash. Where those evil sons of bitches get absolutely annihilated with no time to even wonder what's happening. Give them the same that they've given all those innocent people. Even if it was in another life, I can't forgive that madman for what he did. Him, especially!" The fact that he laid his vile hands on Rem! The memory infuriated Subaru. He wouldn't be satisfied until the blood of all those hooded fucks was soaking the earth!

Mentally, Subaru shook his head! He couldn't let thoughts like that consume him. Not right now. But even still, his soul was screaming for vengeance and payback.

This did not go unnoticed by Demiurge. But, unlike Crusch Karsten, he found Subaru's barely concealed bloodlust to be inviting.

"A monster that has terrorized the entire continent for 400 years. If Subaru became known as the one who defeated such a beast, well, he would become a hero of legends to the people." As Demiurge said this, Subaru instantly snapped back to reality. A hero? Him? "Me? Er, no! That's not what I'm looking for. All I want is for people to be able to live their lives the best way they can. They don't deserve to have stuff like that monster and those psychos constantly at their door. It's not right and it's not fair."

The White Whale. The problem of it as well as the Witch Cult appeared to be connected to one another, according to Subaru Natsuki. But Demiurge found himself more interested in the former. He wondered just how useful the White Whale's body would be to his master. A devious smile crossed his lips at the thought. Demiurge had to applaud Sebas. He didn't expect his colleague to bring back such an interesting person. This could prove to be incredibly useful to their liege.

"And where exactly do you believe this White Whale is going to appear? And at what time?" This time, it was Sebas who asked the question, his tone merely curious.

"I sense that it'll show up in the vicinity of the Flugel Tree on the Liphas Highway about 25 hours from this time. You can't miss it. The tree is absolutely massive, and that road is on the way to the Mathers territory, anyway. Meaning that if possible, we could tackle one issue and then the other."

This was it. Subaru had essentially put all his cards on the table. He had explained everything in as concise and honest a manner as he was able to do. All he could hope for was that these two strangers would take his word and not ask for an arm and a leg in return.

Silence reigned over the room.

By the second, Demiurge found himself even more enthralled with the idea of this creature. And considering that it apparently appeared and disappeared seemingly at random, this was his greatest chance to observe something truly unique to this world. A flying whale? How interesting. He would be a fool to neglect this golden opportunity sitting right there in front of him. And if everything turned out to be fruitful, just what other things could this Subaru Natsuki tell him that would lead to greater successes for their shared mission? Demiurge felt that this was absolutely a challenge worth taking.

"Okay. I believe you." Those few words sent Subaru for a loop. It wasn't Demiurge's enchanted speech that moved him, but simply the knowledge that after having begged and humiliated himself time and again, someone else told him they didn't think he was a liar, or crazy, or just being greedy for his own sake.

"Yes. I believe you have nothing to gain from lying about such things. And if this feeling of yours turns out to be incorrect, we will have simply wasted a few hours at the absolute most."

"Exactly! It'd be two days at the absolute most, I think!" Subaru instantly shot up from his chair and pumped a fist! Demiurge seemed to be an incredibly logical person to come to that conclusion. Why couldn't Crusch Karsten understand the same thing? Did she genuinely believe that he was attempting to lead her into some sort of malevolent trap? Even if Subaru did end up being wrong, which he wasn't, all that she would lose was a little time! She could spare that. Bah! Who needed someone like her? Subaru couldn't believe that at one point he thought she was the most likely person to help.

But before he began a mental celebration, Subaru forced himself to calm down. This wasn't over. Not just yet. There was still one thing he needed to ask. And it was this that had in the snag in his previous negotiations. "So, what exactly do you want in exchange? I really don't think anyone would go into something this crazy for free. You've got to want something. Quid pro quo and all that."

Demiurge's smile widened. Even in his excitement, the youth seemed to be aware that their help would not come for free. But as the stars would have it, Subaru Natsuki was in luck. Because if he was telling the truth about all of this, then his payment had already been made.

"We would like the body of the White Whale as payment. It is simple. You take us to where you believe it will arrive, and after it is disposed of, Sebas and I will take it as our prize."

Subaru had no idea what they could possibly want with the corpse of that monster. From what he had heard, those creatures were not good for anything other than causing strife. To be completely honest, he wanted to inquire more. What use would the body of that creature be to them? But somehow Subaru managed to hold his tongue. He would keep this in mind, but he would not bring get up at the moment. Things were going too well for him and he couldn't rock the boat in a dangerous direction.

"Far as I'm concerned, you guys can tap dance all over the thing. As long as it dies."

"Well then, I believe we have a deal between us." Reaching over the table, Demiurge extended his gloved have toward Subaru, a glint of light reflecting off his glasses.

Seconds passed, but before Subaru made a move, he hesitantly inquired, "This handshake isn't gonna do something like take 30 years off my lifespan, is it?" Despite the grim nature of the question, he managed a weak smile. And to his surprise, Demiurge chuckled softly before responding. "Such a thing would be inappropriate. We have entered into a beneficial agreement for both sides. And aside from that, I sense that you are an individual who has a wealth of unexplored potential, Subaru Natsuki. It is actually quite surprising that no one has stepped forth to help you foster it."

In general, Demiurge believed that the human race was full of unimpressive masses who were not much different than common livestock to be farmed. However, there were hidden diamonds in the rough in various places. Such gems should be picked and carefully watched in order to be brought to their most valuable.

Without further hesitation, Subaru took Demiurge's hand and they shook. "You two just keep piling on the compliments. I'm actually not used to hearing this kind of talk, these days." Subaru couldn't believe that things had turned out this way. Could things have been different all those times ago if he simply walked in a different direction and managed to run into Sebas earlier? He didn't know. Because now was now the time for what-ifs. It was the time for action. For results. For change.

"To everyone who overlooked and abandoned me, you'll see soon enough that you made the wrong choice. Betelgeuse Romanee-Conti, wherever you are, I swear I will hunt you down and watch you breathe your last breath. Just stay wherever you are and be patient. Because this is the last time you'll ever have a peaceful night's sleep. If you think freezing to death was bad, you'll beg for the cold when I have my hand around your throat."

Subaru could feel it. Change was coming. This time was going to be different for sure. No more emotional outbursts. No more begging for the attention and affection of those who looked down on him. A dark smile twisted itself onto his face. "It's time I win one."

While Subaru was refilled with new confidence, his companion, the blue-haired maid couldn't help but feel apprehensive about what they were going into. "I can only pray that Subaru has made the correct choice. Otherwise..."

In another part of the capital city, the Karsten manor was bustling with activity from within.

For quite a time now, goods had been coming in and out of the property in small amounts. This was to ensure that no one became aware of the true purpose of all these transactions. However, there were certain eyes within the city who had their sneaking suspicions about what the young duchess was planning. Even still, she managed to keep everything under wraps for the most part.

Seldom was it that the young head of the Karsten house felt this level of anticipation. The failure or success of what was to soon come would greatly decide if her lead in the royal selection was strengthened, or if her place would plummet lower as her rivals took a lead ahead of her. But she would not succumb to doubts. No. There was a reason she was thought to be the favorite to emerge victorious in this race, and Crusch would not allow her goals to be left unfulfilled.

There were too many people who'd placed their hopes in her for her to fail them as a leader.

Looking outside the window of her conference room, her subordinates were transporting arms and weaponry with militaristic precision on the grounds of her estate. Though she held her head up with pride, she couldn't help but be taunted by the sense that something was wrong.

Walking to where her family's treasured sword was placed upon the wall, the green-haired duchess placed a hand on the lion insignia of the sword, hoping it would grant her both courage and guidance.

"I can only hope that my convictions have led me to the correct path."

Her current objective was the White Whale. This was a quest being carried out in the utmost of secrecy. But should it prove successful, it would be a feat even those who were unsure of her competency could not ignore. After all, the White Whale was a monster that had trampled the lands for centuries, treating everything below it as if it was the beast's playthings. No one could even count the number of lives it had taken, because if one was killed by the mabeast, they were the lucky ones. Being swallowed by the whale's infernal mists did something even worse to its incalculable number of victims.

"If we emerge victorious, he will surely be grateful as well..." After all, the slaying of this monster was a dream the Sword Devil had long since dreamed of. And as his liege, it was Crusch's responsibility to deliver her subordinate this boon.

The only question was, how many of her men would be sacrificed to achieve this victory?

"So many of my soldiers who have put their trust in me. They are full of fire and determination. But, what number of them will be left on the battlefield as the rest of us return home?"

The number was one that no one could predict.