Hey there! Here is your chapter 5 of the story, now taking another route. From what I've read, after the Mabeast attack there were something like 2 months in the mansion before the election. I'm planning to write some stuff within those 2 months inside the Astrea mansion andthe capital as Subaru and Reinhard prepare themselves for the big day, even though for now Reinhard still didn't say anything about Subaru to the council.
This chapter is more a chill one if I had to describe it, the SubaruxSuffering lovers will have to wait the next chapter I'm afraid.
I have to thank you again for you reviews about this fiction, I read every single one of them and take everything you say into account, yours comments, your ideas and so on.
That being said, I hope you enjoy your read.
As the sun raised up upon the Mather's manor once more, thankfully to a peaceful day, a dragon carriage was waiting at the entry of the yard.
Most of the residents were outside, as two men were about to make their way back to the capital.
The swors saint was getting the dragon ready, checking if everything was in order.
[Reinhard]"I think we are ready to go now" he said, while caressing the dragon's head.
He then came back to the small group that were waiting near the gates, all around the black haired candidate about to take his leave.
[Emilia]"Do you really need to go back so soon?"
Emilia looked obviously saddened and disappointed in how little Subaru stayed at the mansion. Memories of her interactions with him remained to her too, as one of the most enjoyable moments she could ever had known.
[Subaru]"As much as I want nothing more but to remain by your side...I have my own obligations. I know how to read and write thanks to your hospitality. Now, I have to prepare myself for the upcoming election since I know jack about this kingdom."
Emilia chuckled at the tone he took to explain himself, like an old man complaining about his hard work.
Ram and Rem looked at the scene from a few steps behind, Ram couldn't care less but Rem was obviously unhappy about not getting the chance to be closer. Roswaal carefully watched from his position too with his usual creepy smile.
[Emilia]"Next time we'll see each other...It will most probably be during the summon at the capital..."
[Subaru]"The summon?"
[Reinhard]"After I will inform the council about your candidacy, the preparations for the election will be complete. All the candidates will be summoned to the royal capital to show their candidacy."
Subaru turned to Emilia who was looking down with a small frown. He understood why, alliance or not, they would be opponents that day since there can only be one king or queen.
That sure was a depressing thought, but he couldn't let her have that kind of expression for any longer. After all, he already decided that he wouldn't be her enemy.
[Subaru]"Hey now, didn't we agree to be in an alliance? More than that, we're friends aren't we Emilia-tan? There's way to much reasons to provide us from being unfair towards one another."
Emilia softly smiled to him. It's true, they were friends. There were no reason to sulk about this. She would do her best for the election and so he would.
[Subaru]"There we go, keep that smile for me for the day we'll see each other again!"
She giggled a bit, he wouldn't leave any chances behind to make her smile, he was good man after all.
Subaru turned to the twins.
[Subaru]"Well, it sure wouldn't have been the same couple of days without you around!"
[Ram]"Sure, it would most certainly have been peaceful without you though."
[Rem]"Sister! Don't be so harsh on him!"
Subaru turned to Rem
[Subaru]"And Rem, thank you. For your trust and for your help, we would have been in great trouble without you, may it be me or the village. You can praise your sister all you want, but you're the one I definitely needed!"
Rem blushed by his was already quite unusual to receive praise in general, but when in addition to that, it was that man who would praise her...
[Subaru]"Seriously Ram, if you could take example on her and be of use from time to time!"
[Ram]"Keep going, give me reasons to despise you even more, Barusu."
Subaru chuckled, he looked at Ram and both shared a smile to each other.
Emilia and Reinhard along with Rem stared at Ram in confusion, from where was that name coming from? Most importantly, when did they get so close for her to give him his personal nickname?
Subaru lastly turned to Roswaal.
[Subaru]"And of course, thank to you, Roswaal-san, for your kind hospitality towards us. I'll be sure to find a way to repay you for your generosity."
[Roswaal]"Thiiiiink nothing of iiiit. You saved the village which is my vicinity, if anythiiiing, I should be the one to thaaaaank you for your stay."
Both shook their hands in symbol of their friendship.
[Emilia]"Please do not hesitate to come back when you want...You'll always be welcomed here."
[Rem]"Yes, Rem will be sure to welcome you every time!"
Subaru really wanted to take them both in his arms right now, if only it wouldn't have been rude and quite unorthodox.
[Subaru]"Then I'll surely take you up on the offer!"
With one last wave of hand and bow from Reinhard, they directed towards the carriage.
Before entering, Subaru looked back one last time and waved his hand at the window far at the manor, to a little loli with drill hairs watching him go. When she noticed that he was waving at her, she gave a faint smile. He was a rude and shameless man...But somehow, he helped to appease her loneliness.
And then, both the candidate and the knight took their leave to the capital once again.
Subaru let go of his smile while looking at the window. Now, his true challenges were about to start. He was about to fight for a throne, in a country that he didn't know anything of. He was the most disadvantaged of all for now, and that problem needed to be fixed.
Back in his world he never been much interested in politics, Japan being a small nation ruled by a government and a prime minister, it was nowhere close to a monarchy anymore as well.
He needed a plan, a way to overcome the election, unfortunately you needed more than a sword saint for that.
[Subaru]" Rein."
[Reinhard]" Subaru?"
[Subaru]" That's going to be the real deal starting from now. I'll need you to tell me everything there's need to be known about Lugunica."
Reinhard smiled and nodded at him, happy to see that he was taking the election seriously.
[Reinhard]" You can count on me."
[Subaru]" Well we might as well start now."
Leaning back on his chair and closing his eyes, Subaru started to think about the little things he would know about politics and ways of ruling. Even if they were different worlds, things like economy, wellbeing or national security should be proper characteristics for every state.
What is more is that, during the first time both met each other, Reinhard said something about the kingdom not being in its prime these times.
[Subaru]" Let's start with the basics…How is the country going economically speaking?"
[Reinhard]" I wouldn't say that the kingdom is suffering from deficit, but there is unfortunately some people or should I rather say…Class of people, who suffers from lack of income."
[Subaru]" Basically speaking, the kingdom is doing well but the poor are being left aside because of their position in society…And I suppose that since people are born in lower classes they are automatically left aside, which means it's an endless loop no matter what if you're unlucky enough to be born there… Yeah, that's a typical medieval pattern for now."
Subaru glared at the window with his hand on his chin. That would have been the first time that his gaming sessions locked up in his room would have ever helped him to understand something useful in real life, it was unbelievable for him but so was being summoned to another world in the first place.
Reinhard looked quite admirative towards him, he did not understand what "medieval" meant but his understanding of the situation regarding this side of the kingdom was clear and proper in a quick matter of time which was, rather impressive.
[Subaru]" I guess that high classes despise the lower class a lot too?"
[Reinhard]" As unfortunate as it sounds…Sometimes I found myself involved in those quarrels regarding how they should be treated, looking at the position that I hold."
[Subaru]" Really? Even though it's quite oblivious that you're not the kind of guy that would make a difference?"
Subaru smiled to him, a way to tell him that he believed Reinhard as someone who wouldn't make that kind of profiling.
Reinhard noticed it and could not help but to appreciate the thought. It is true that he was doing his best to be respectful to everyone and anyone so the fact that someone acknowledged this part of him relieved him a bit.
Yet, when people with whom he lived for 19 years of his life to still doubt him while the one he met in fewer than a week recognized it without any effort left him bewildered about his entourage.
Were those people blind, or was it Subaru that was on a way other level? Well, even if it seemed quite out of respect for once, it was surely the latter.
He ended up gladly smiling back to Subaru.
[Reinhard]" Not for everyone it seems…"
Subaru chuckled to his response. Surely the life of someone from one of the most prestigious family of the kingdom would not be easy.
[Subaru]" So, I guess that ultimately this discrimination against lower classes goes right back to the upper classes since each hate the other for their position?"
Reinhard gave him a sad nod of approval; it was never easy to accept his own kingdom lack of respect between the population
Subaru started to elaborate the situation further in his mind, trying to remember his RPG fantastic games pattern and situations to understand how the people mindset was defined and thus, the ways he could explore this to use those information's at his advantage. He came to remember about all the races of people he saw the day of his arrival in the capital, especially the moment when he entered a bar "prohibited to humans."
[Subaru]"Is there perhaps any discriminations between the races of people in the country?"
Subaru got surprised to see Reinhard frown and look down with a pitiful expression. It has to come around, but it has never been easy to mention it, may it be casually or even more to a newcomer.
[Reinhard]"It is…Quite a dark part for our kingdom, linked up to an equal dark past I'm afraid."
He raised his head to meet Subaru while joining his hands, visibly unhappy about what he was about to explain.
[Reinhard]"Not so long ago, the kingdom of Lugunica took on a civil war against the demi human race, mainly because of the human's superiority since the demi humans were a minority in the kingdom. It started for a cause that is yet to be revealed and the scars of the battles and bloodshed still remains within the hearts of everyone."
Subaru closed his eyes in respect towards Reinhard's words. He never knew war or a situation close to it, but he knew like any other person how horrible it had to be.
[Subaru]" Have you been in this war, Rein?"
Reinhard shook his head from left to right, he was simply affected by it's consequences, like many others.
[Subaru]" So…Helping to bring a peace climate between the humans and demi humans would be a good point."
[Reinhard]" It is quite the challenge…"
Subaru smiled confidently at him; Reinhard quickly understood.
[Subaru]" But I don't dislike challenges!"
Both laughed a bit, while being happy to have eased the mood a bit after this reminder of civil war.
[Subaru]"Wait, now that I think about it, how big Is Lugunica?"
Reinhard's face lit up with sparks in his eyes,Subaru understood that this was something he was proud of
[Reinhard]"We're easily the biggest kingdom of the whole continent, having borders to all of the other 3 kingdoms."
[Subaru]"Volachia, Kararagi and….Gusteko, was it?"
[Reinhard]" That's right. We are somewhat in peace for the moment, even if I'm afraid that the lack of monarchy in our kingdom will soon lit the sparks of eventual conflicts…"
[Subaru]"I found it quite…Uh…surprising, that countries still think of attacking one another while a whole part of your world has been destroyed not so long ago."
Reinhard was visibly startled by Subaru's words, he looked at him with such awe that it made him quite uncomfortable.
[Reinhard]" That's it! That's exactly it, Subaru! How is that possible for us to be in conflict while we should help each other and build a new future in prosperity since that disaster?! Why is it so hard for them to understand while you did in less than a week! DAMN IT!"
A few seconds passed until Reinhard realized what he just said. His face turned bright red in shame for the behavior he just held before his master. Subaru couldn't help but to burst in laughter at his friend's behavior, which only added mor weight to the sword saint who simply wished to curl up into a ball and disappear right now.
Reinhard's frustration over this situation was clear and Subaru understood it right away, yet it seemed that there were very few people with common sense in this world regarding the way Reinhard acted. Subaru knew himself; he was quite impulsive. Meeting someone so simple minded that Reinhard seemed to refer to right now would be quite problematic to him.
[Subaru]" It's okay Rein, I told you; you can be yourself when it's just the two of us. So judging by your golden reaction right now, you're around a lot of people who thinks differently, right?"
Reinhard, who was still unable to look at his master, put his hand on his forehead like he seemed in pain. Well…Maybe he was.
[Reinhard]" Even if I hope that it would be different…"
Subaru laughed even more, seeing Reinhard that depressed over something as trivial than the mind of people told a lot about how stubborn they could be. Even if himself could not really argue when it comes to be stubborn when he thought about it.
[Subaru]"I guess with that you answered to all the questions I had in mind for now…If I resume it real quick: there is poverty and discrimination in the kingdom regarding the lower classes while there is still the same kind of climate around humans and demi humans. In addition, there is a possibility of conflict going with other countries, probably Vollachia if I remember the discussion we had in the Mather's mansion. On top of that, there's some people who would be favorable to that."
Reinhard was honestly impressed by Subaru's analytical mind of the situation. He understood the situation right away without further explanation. Truly impressive, but it was his master, he could not expect nothing less.
[Reinhard]" That's relatively it."
Subaru leaned back again to think, he was planning in his head, not a perfect plan but it would at the very least be a start. If he had to be the ruler of this country, his priority had to be for the people of the kingdom, that is what he thought.
Still looking up to the ceiling of the carriage, Subaru crossed his arms and started to voice his thoughts.
[Subaru]" So I guess the best course of action would be to try a solution of equality within the kingdom, maybe by financially helping the lower classes to let them have a better life…At the very least, food on the table every day without worrying about famine. With that, people would tend to let go of the criminal habits they would have in order to survive, which would then reduce criminality, another good point…Plus, the moral would be boosted since they wouldn't think themselves as left out anymore, they could forget about the demi human war and discrimination, which would open doors to solidarity, hence unify most of the people together. If ever conflicts really occur, this would help to strengthen loyalty towards the state and avoid or at least, drastically reduce ideas of conspiracy or betrayal. On the other hand, it would be best to negotiate with most of the countries regarding peace treaties or non-aggression pacts, perhaps by showing them how preferable it would be for everyone if they would associate with us rather than being enemies…Cultural exchange and trading would be a good point if ever we have things that would be worth it, since the kingdom is big enough to border the 3 other countries, we most certainly have territories and tactical advantages that would benefit everyone or…Maybe by raising the economy and life quality with some ideas from my world I would get their attention too…"
If Subaru would look in front of him right now, he would see a shocked Reinhard with wide open eyes and sweating forehead, wondering how it was even possible for him to come out with such a plan in a matter of minutes of discussion. The sword saint could not possibly believe his ears, his admiration for Subaru was indeed justified; If he came to this conclusion atter such trivial information's, what would be the result with more detailed situations at hand?
"It has to be fate…" Thought Reinhard.
[Subaru]" Well, I can't make assumptions without further investigation in the situation for no- Rein? You're okay?"
With a worried look upon his frozen friend, Subaru called him out. Reinhard finally came out of his trance and blinked a couple of times, showing in how much deep thinking he was.
[Reinhard]" Y-yes! Pardon me…H-hum. I think it is a good beginning...W-well actually, if we could really achieve your plans, it would be more than marvelous, for the people and the kingdom or…No, for the entire world…"
Subaru smiled warmly at Reinhard, such devotion and excitement towards the idea of peace was really something heartwarming. Even though Subaru himself never believed in the possibility of achieving complete peace within the world, maybe in a continent of 4 countries this wouldn't be impossible. Yes, right now he had the chance to be in command and to pull that stunt out.
Subaru narrowed his eyes at the passing plains and hills of Lugunica, with the capital in sight.
(Author note: I swear I checked but I just didn't find the time for the ride between the mansion and the capital, so I'm using my "plot" cart now, bear with me.)
If he had the chance to achieve something like that…Then he would absolutely be the king.
Back to the capital, Subaru felt a nostalgic feeling as to see this city nostalgic...He died 3 times in here and got to see only the slums. He quickly thought about Felt and Rom. Suddenly, an idea came to his mind.
[Subaru]" Hey Rein, let's stop the carriage and walk around the capital a bit! I didn't get the chance to see it in all it's glory."
Reinhard was overjoyed to hear that from Subaru, the capital of Lugunica being one of the cities he was the proudest of, it would have been nothing but his pleasure to present it to his master and eventual future king.
[Reinhard]" Of course! Let's stop here."
The carriage stopped near a building, which was guarded by two guards at the front. These two made a quick sign of respect as seeing Reinhard stand out of the carriage.
Intrigued, Subaru looked at his friend with curiosity.
[Subaru]" It is an important place?"
[Reinhard]"The guard's station, it's a place where people can call out the guards if there's a problem."
"So…A police station?"
[Reinhard]"The capital of Lugunica as you can see, is the biggest city of the kingdom, it is in itself divided in 5 section. The royalty which is basically the high class section where only monarchy and high nobles are allowed to live, the noble section where there is most of the kingdom noble classes, the third section, much more focused on commercial purposes and finally the fourth and fifth section, for the common people and…The more disfavored ones."
[Subaru]"In other words, these are districts and the last ones are for poor people…"
Reinhard made an unseasy smile as he previously tried to not speak that name out clearly, yet it seemed that Subaru didn't have the same…Politeness.
[Subaru]" And up there…Is the royal castle, right?"
Subaru pointed towards a giant castle adorning the top of a hill, presumably the highest place of the entire city.
[Reinhard]" Yes, exactly. The royal castle…Of lugunica."
Reinhard had a mixed tone of admiration and guilt, his eyes showed that he was quite saddened by the way he looked at this castle. Subaru didn't understand much but he thought it might be a personal matter. Yet, when they both where admiring the castle, a question suddenly appeared in Subaru's mind…Something he completely forgot.
[Subaru]" Wait…There is something that just…If there's an election for the new king to be chosen…What happened to the previous one?"
Reinhard turned to Subaru. His eyes widened in shock as he realized that he completely forgot about Subaru coming from a foreign land and not knowing much about Lugunica. He really disappointed himself by not telling him about this.
[Reinhard]"Forgive me, I should have told you this sooner."
Both of them sat on a bench in front of a fountain situated in a big plaza of the capital. The sight of lugunicans passing in front of them from multiple races gave a pleasant feeling of peace, though, it was maybe or surely, just a facade. Following the meeting of Elsa, Subaru understood that "don't judge a book by it's cover" found it's utmost meaning in this world.
(Author note: I suppose you call someone who lives in Lugunica a Lugunican? Welp, now you do.)
[Reinhard]"Years ago, the entire royal family of lugunica started to get infected by a virus…An unknown disease only within the walls of the palace and only infecting the royal monarchy…Last year, the last member of the Lugunica dynasty died, leaving no heir behind…"
[Subaru]"And thus, the election…"
Subaru leant back on the bench, looking at the clouds decorating the blue sky of the capital.
[Subaru]" The entire family dying by a virus…infecting only them…Rein…"
Reinhard did the same as Subaru, admiring the sky reflecting in his own blue eyes, perfectly matching with each other.
[Reinhard]" I know. I know how it sounds, but no proof has been found of an attempted assassination and no traces of poison have been detected either. The best mages and healers of the entire kingdom went to inspect them…But nothing managed to appease the royal family's pain. One by one, this virus took them away while we were powerless."
Subaru now understood the meaning behind the look of Reinhard earlier. He was a knight and the sword saint, he held one of the most important position of the entire kingdom, yet he could not do anything when those he swore allegiance to died. It had to be an horrible experience, Subaru knew it only too well after all.
The candidate said nothing. In this kind of situation, it was preferable to not open any wounds.
[Subaru]" What did the royal family look like? Physically speaking I mean…Typical beautiful and noble people? More warriors like?"
Reinhard chuckled a bit, he understood Subaru's tentative of changing the topic of discussion.
[Reinhard]" I would tend to say they were noble like, I've never heard of any members trying to be a warrior tough. A funny thing is that all the members of the family had a common physical trait, gold hair and bright red eyes."
[Subaru]"Mh, like your family and your red hair, blue eyes?"
Reinhard remained silent for a moment, making a weird face as he just realized this.
[Reinhard]"Now that you say it…"
Subaru burst a laugh to his friend, who shortly followed after, actually realizing this trait of his family. Yet the more he thought about them…The more his laugh faded away. Slowly reminding of every member and how he was…
[Subaru]"Wait…Gold hair and red eyes?"
Reinhard got extirped from his grim thought as Subaru just voiced his thoughts. He looked at his friend with a confused yet, interested look as every time Subaru thought about something with that expression, it was always interesting or crazy.
[Subaru]"Gold hair and…"
Subaru slowly turned his eyes to Reinhard, his worried gaze tarnished the slightly excited one of his friend, who quickly showed his concern and confusion to whatever just came to Subaru's mind.
[Subaru]" Rein, we're going to the slums."
Reinhard looked at him, a bit bewildered, but executed himself right away, both of them got up and started to make their way to the slums.
Since he previously walked within this part of the capital for a day, or rather 3 days for him, he knew perfectly the way he needed to take to get to his destination.
Soon, both the sword saint in his apparel and the candidate in his black costume found themselves in the slum, scaring some people by the way, until reaching the blown-up loot house of old man Rom, where it was prohibited to walk in after the guard's investigation.
[Subaru]" Have you ever done anything for them after this?"
Reinhard looked a bit confused but most importantly, he was guilty. This entire wreckage was his fault and his fault only, due to his inability to control his power. To that, adding the memories of the bowel hunter nearly killing his own master and friend. Reinhard clenched his fists just as the thought of it seriously pissed him off. He should have never let her get away for that crime.
[Reinhard]" I… Do not really see what could have been done. Unfortunately, this loot house remains a criminal site, there were no possibility of compensation by the state of Lugunica.
[Subaru]" So the country does have a compensation system?"
Reinhard sweated a bit in worry
[Reinhard]" Well…Only to those who are deemed to deserve it by the law…"
[Subaru]" Which means, rich people."
Reinhard looked down in guilt as Subaru was speaking with a cold tone. Of course, he was not directing this to Reinhard but to how this kingdom was way too old minded. In a way, that just gave him another reason to run for the throne.
Subaru started to walk towards it and inspected it a bit, after seeing it trough, he concluded that no one could actually live here anymore.
Subaru then made his way towards another place he knew well, which was Felt's hideout, with Reinhard carefully following him.
When he got there, he inspected it as well to see that a lot of stuff he previously saw at his first visit were gone, which confirmed his thoughts about Felt and Rom moving to somewhere else.
He got up and looked around him, it was still daytime and relatively the afternoon.
[Subaru]" We need to find them. Rein, they couldn't have gone too far, try to question some of the people in this area, I will go over there."
Subaru pointed the right side of the slums to Reinhard while he said he'd go to the left.
Reinhard appeared a bit trouble by this story of getting separated, last time he did Subaru ended up fighting against demon dogs.
[Subaru]" Don't worry, regarding of how those people looked at us, I don't think they'll try anything funny with you around. Whatever if you find them or not, let's meet back here in 15 minutes"
Reinhard gave a sigh of approval. Even if he did not want to, his master's words were his to follow.
Both started to wander in the designated area in order to question people about Felt and Old Rom.
For every people that Subaru tried to question, he was only answered by a growl, worried gaze or escaping people.
He started to realize that poor people living in those districts were really hating on nobility, it was no joke. Discrimination was something that existed as long as he remembered or rather, learned, in his world, it has to be something quite old enough in this world too.
Suddenly, as he walked over a place, Subaru got intercepted and stopped by…
(Well, who could that be, really?)
"Well looks what he got here?"
"This one looks fancy!"
"Come one, cough up everything you got if you don't want to be harmed!"
Subaru facepalmed himself with a desperate sigh as he recognized these 3 way to well.
[Subaru]" How fucking unlucky do I have to be to always end up on you 3 of all people?!"
The 3 thugs looked at each other, until the smaller one gasped as he finally recognized him
"It's the guy from a week ago! Who called for the guards like a bitch!"
"Yeah! Now I remember!"
"You got some nerve coming back here!"
Subaru started to get angry, veins of anger could be seen on his forehead as he the little one said, "Like a bitch". Honestly, he still had a score to settle with these 3.
[Subaru]"Yeah, so that's me. What now? I have nothing to give you."
"Forget it, we're just gonna beat you up!"
"Yeah, you can't call for you friend this time!"
"That will teach you t-"
The third one, who Subaru remembered as "knife guy" got interrupted as Subaru's foot struck his jaw at full speed, making him bit his tongue in the process, before getting thrown on his back, knocked out.
[Subaru]" You were saying?"
"YOU SON O-"
Again, Subaru didn't let him finish his vulgar sentence as he delivered another kick right to his face, sending him near his friend.
"YOU FUCKING COWARD"
The third one though, did not let himself fooled as he attacked right after that. Subaru jumped back from some meters to avoid his hits with a frown on his face, he really wished to beat them quickly like the second time he had to fight them, but looks like he was to slow.
"That was cheap! Now I'm really angry!"
[Subaru]" Tch."
The last thug, which was the tallest and most muscular of the three, was standing in front of Subaru, both in a fighting stance. He could've easily called for Reinhard who'd have jumped here right away, but his pride and memories of his third loop wouldn't let him do that, even though he was probably in trouble.
[?]" What's all this 'bout?!"
Both Subaru and the thug got alerted by the loud yell coming from behind the thug. Subaru smiled right away as he recognized this voice along with the gigantic figure coming right at them.
[Subaru]" Old Rom!"
Rom turned towards Subaru as he heard his name and quickly recognized him. He approached both of them with heavy foot steps and by seeing the bodies of the two other on the ground, he understood what was going on.
In the same time, the memories of how he helped him and Felt from that killer and of course, what Felt told him, already gave him an idea about who's side he would join.
[Rom]" Ya sure you wanna pick that all alone brat?"
Heavily sweating, the thug quickly picked up his two comrades before running for his life, obviously scared of the idea of facing a giant.
"Damn you! You'll regret this!"
After seeing him running away, Subaru fell down on his butt, sitting down. He sighed out loud before a smiling Rom.
[Subaru]" Damn, I owe you one old Rom, I was being cocky but there were really no way I could have beaten that dude."
[Rom]"Ya're more the one I should thank, ya saved my ass and Felt's back at the loot house against that freak."
Subaru smiled at him, even though he didn't do much except trying to save them and prevent Elsa's venue, he was glad to see Rom well.
[Subaru]" Reinhard is more the one you should thank you know? He is the one who fought Elsa."
Rom stopped, surprised by what he just heard. He made a weird grimace as he heard the name of Reinhard. When Subaru saw it, he immediately made the link with the hypothesis he just made earlier when he talked about the hatred between the classes.
[Reinhard]"Subaru-sama?"
Coming from the way where the thug just ran to, was the sword saint. When he saw Rom, he made a relieved face as he knew they found the reason of their venue.
The old man muttered to himself
[Rom]" So it's really an Astrea…"
[Subaru]"Glad to see you Reinhard, as you can see, Rom here found me!"
[Reinhard]"I'm glad to see it, indeed."
Rom looked to Subaru and Reinhard back and forth, actually wondering what was going on.
[Subaru]" Can we see you and Felt, Rom? We are here to discuss about something important."
Rom looked a bewildered about that. He sure couldn't find a good reason for an Astrea and this boy to meet them but after what happened, he decided to allow them to since he couldn't find a reason to not trust them as well, or at the very least, Subaru.
Rom guided him to a small house, a bit smaller than the previous loot house, in which was roughly some shelves with meager food in it, a table with a bottle of alcohol and 2 beds, which in one was a sleeping young girl with golden hair.
Subaru smiled at the sight of her being so peaceful. The last time he got the chance of seeing her, she was angry or scared, literally at the door of death.
Rom started to look for some glasses to pour them something to drink, while Subaru directed to Felt, soundly sleeping and sat beside her. Reinhard inspected the entire interior, every single thing had to be viewed to be sure that it wouldn't be of any threat for his master.
[Subaru]" Did anything happen to you after we left?" Asked Subaru in a calm voice.
[Rom]"If ya talkin' about that bitch, ain't seen her around after that mess."
[Subaru]" I see…An optimistic part of me would like to say that we'll never see her again but looking back at her eager face when she swore to gut me, I can't really fool myself."
Reinhard glanced at his master a bit disappointed and determined. She was welcome to try.
Talking near Felt had the effect to disturb her a bit, she turned back to their side as they all looked at her making a grimace with her eyes still closed, until she slowly opened them. She looked up to see a blurred image of a guy sitting next to her and a big figure that she recognized as being Old Rom.
Yet she fixed her gaze towards the one sitting beside her. She rubbed her morning tired eyes (even though it was past noon) a bit more.
[Felt]"Gn…Who..?"
Coming to her senses, the vision became more clear as her shiny scarlet eyes looked at Subaru's.
When he saw her eye color, he couldn't help but to strengthen the hypothesis he was making in his mind since his talk with Reinhard on that bench.
[Felt]"Wait…B-big bro?!"
With a wide smile, Felt jumped in Subaru's arms, taking him immediately off guard and nestling in his torso, she was obviously very happy to see him and didn't hide her joy at all.
[Subaru]" Glad to see you're lively as ever, Felt."
Felt leaned back a bit, still looking at him with her smile, before smacking him in the belly under the worried gaze of Reinhard who honestly didn't know if he should intervene and punc-
[Felt]" Looks like your wound is healed too!"
Subaru held a hand on his stomach while laughing along with Felt who still didn't let go of her grip on his shoulder.
Reinhard and Rom were a bit troubled first but ultimately ended up smiling along with them. He started to poor some drinks for everyone, three cups of alcohol and one of milk.
When Subaru noticed, he quickly notified Rom about his condition.
[Subaru]" I don't drink Rom..."
The old man looked at him with a frown on his face.
[Rom]" What? Ya want some milk too then?"
Felt laughed loud at this, regarding the jurisdiction of Lugunica, she was 15 and an adult so she was at age and so was Subaru, but in her eyes, he was really young.
She also notice Reinhard in the process, both smiled at each other remembering about their encounter.
[Felt]" Good to see you too sword saint! Wait! You're not here to arrest us or something right?!"
She looked to both Reinhard and Subaru who quickly calmed her mood about this.
[Subaru]" No, I just really wanted to see you, I was worried since last time, I fainted without knowing what would become of you."
Felt left out a sigh of relief and blushed slightly at the idea of someone "wanting to see her." She advanced towards the table while pulling Subaru with her and sat down along with everyone else.
Subaru stared at her, Reinhard noticed it and looked at her too wondering why, then bit by bit, he was putting the fragments together. He turned slowly to his master, he was sweating worriedly and slightly in shock, Subaru looked at him a serious look.
[Subaru]" Gold hair and red eyes…"
And he realized. Reinhard saw it. He leant back on his chair, his head falling behind and his hand on his eyes. He was so focused on Subaru's candidacy that he didn't think about that one bit.
Felt and Rom looked at each other a bit confused, more Felt than Rom at the very least.
[Felt]" What's happening?! You okay Reinhard?"
[Subaru]" He might have just realized something important…"
Felt looked at Subaru, even more confused. She seemed a bit eager to know what it was. Reinhard came back to his sense and stared at Felt.
[Reinhard]" What is your family name? and your age? How old are you?"
Felt moved her chair back, a bit creeped by how the sword saint was acting towards her.
[Felt]" I don't have a family name...I-Im orphan. Old Rom found me and I think that I have 15…"
She looked at Rom for confirmation and relief. The giant looked at her and Reinhard back and forth, he was starting to pierce it together as well.
Subaru on the other side, didn't know all the story that was laying behind Reinhard's thoughts. But his reaction practically confirmed his theory in the making towards the little thief.
Subaru pulled out the insignia from his pocket and tended it to Felt, before the eyes of Reinhard and Rom. One was at the edge of his seat, ready to know a truth that might shake the entire kingdom while Rom was sighing. In a way or another, he knew this day would come.
[Felt]" I-isn't it big sis thing that I stole?"
[Subaru]" No, this one is mine. But I would like you to hold it for a second"
Still a bit confused, the warm and sincere smile of Subaru appeased her a bit. She accepted and took the insignia.
Then, before the eyes of the sword saint, this one slightly shone the red light of candidacy. In a way, confirming the same conclusion both Reinhard and Subaru had in mind.
[Felt]" And then? What does that mean?"
[Subaru]" Felt, this insignia is actually a proof for Lugunica's throne candidacy. With this, you can compete for the throne."
Felt looked at him in both shock and fear, as she just realized what she stole and what it could cost her.
Subaru smiled at her, letting her quickly understand that she had nothing to fear.
[Subaru]" The thing is, Felt…I'm the fifth and last candidate, but you physical characteristics match perfectly with those of the previous royal family…"
Felt kept listening, she was frowning bit by bit as Subaru continued to voice his thoughts and statements he made.
[Subaru]" And with that insignia reacting…That could further prove that you might be a member who could have survived."
[Felt]" The hell you're saying?!"
Felt got up, slamming the table with her hands and visibly angry.
[Felt]" What would I have something to do with those guys?! Old Rom is the one who raised me!"
[Subaru]" Because you were orphan. He found you and raised you, but you never knew who your parents were. And judging by Reinhard's reactions just now…"
He nodded to Reinhard, making him understand that it was time for him to say what he was holding in his mind this whole time.
[Reinhard]" Nearly fifteen years ago…The daughter of the prince Ford Lugunica have been reported kidnapped and disappeared…We never managed to find the child."
Subaru tilted his head as he heard this story, before turning to a shaking and furious Felt. She clenched her fists as she was about to yell at the duo before Rom got up.
He sighed while looking right in the eyes of Subaru.
[Rom]" Ya really are something, ya know that?"
Subaru simply smiled at him.
[Felt]" O-old Rom…?"
Rom looked a bit saddened, but ultimately, he resolved himself.
[Rom]" Ford asked me to. He felt that something was about to happen because of that Lion blessing he had and was worried for his child's future. That's why he asked me to take her away and keep her safe…"
Reinhard eyes widened. He looked at Felt with shock as he realized that…She was…
[Subaru]"So Ford Lugunica sensed that the virus of the royal family was coming thanks to a blessing and entrusted Felt to you so she could be safe…"
Rom nodded his head.
[Rom]" Ford was an ol' friend of mine. When he asked me for help I couldn't just refuse. So I took her with me. Later, I heard about this story of disease like the entire kingdom and I understood what he meant."
Felt sat down back in her chair, still in shock at what she heard, while Reinhard was holding his hand on his mouth with his wide eyes. The story behind this child was in a way connected to his family and finally finding her would resolve an internal conflict of his…All thanks to Subaru.
Rom looked at her but, in a way, he couldn't meet her eyes. He was filled with guilt as he never told her the truth. Even if it was hard to believe, she had the right to know.
[Subaru]" It nearly sounds as a fairy tale when you think about it. The little thief of the slums who struggled all of her life end up discovering that she was a princess all along…"
Everyone turned to Subaru ho had a small frown on his face, looking at the people in front of him.
Rom looked at him with worry, he knew who Subaru was now, and he had the sword saint as his knight.
[Rom]" So…Now what? You're going to take her and make her qu-"
[Felt]" AS IF!"
Felt got up with tears and rage in her eyes, gazing at the duo who came to visit them.
[Felt]" I DON'T CARE ABOUT THEM! I DON'T CARE AOUT THIS KINGDOM! OLD ROM IS THE ONE WHO RAISED ME AND WAS THERE FOR ME! I DON'T…I don't….need..."
Her voice became weaker and weaker. Well, it was justified. Subaru closed his eyes as he realized. Those were a lot of information to take in and right now her entire self was conflicted. She lived all her life in misery with the same mindset as everyone here; hate towards the high classes for their ignorance, for their pride and blindness towards those in need. And right now, she was learning that she was coming from them, the people she hated. She could not stomach that. On top of that, Rom which was the one she trusted the most, always hid that reality to her, she felt…Betrayed.
[Reinhard]" Well…Even if you are Ford's lost child, the five candidates have already been chosen and there is no further proof to endorse your royalty…Hence I don't think this is possible to do anything…"
Reinhard was conflicted. Felt was most probably a Lugunica. A member of the family he swore to protect as a knight and a royal guard, she was there standing in front of him…Yet he couldn't do anything. No one would accept her, no one would believe her. Even if he had already chosen a master, the idea of abandoning a member of the royal family was killing him from the inside.
Felt was hanging her head low as she was still processing everything she just learnt. She didn't want to have anything to do with this kingdom anyway, but still.
Rom simply looked away; he didn't know how to face felt now.
A deep silence took place in the small room around the table, until…
[Subaru]" No, there is still a way."
Everyone turned to Subaru, Reinhard with a small glint of hope as his master could find a solution, Rom with the guilt devouring him from the inside and Felt, slowly raising her head a she was still emotionally weakened.
[Subaru]" Rom, Felt. Come and join me."
Reinhard's eyes widened. He came to understand what his master was aiming at.
Rom looked a bit bewildered by that and slowly turned to Felt who looked at Subaru with great confusion again.
[Felt]" What do you mean…"
[Subaru]" What I just said. I want you and Old man Rom to come and be under me. Come to my camp and help me to become the ruler of this kingdom, I will provide you with a living and everything you need."
Felt started to clench her teeth with rage in her eyes as she was looking at Subaru who remained calm. Under the table, he made a sign to Reinhard, "no" with his finger. Reinhard looked at his master as he understood that he meant for him to not do anything.
Right after that, Felt grabbed her glass and throwed him to Subaru's face. It nearly graze his hair before smashing against the wall behind him. Reinhard could have easily stopped that in a matter of milliseconds if it wasn't for Subaru's orders.
[Felt]" WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?! I DON'T NEED YOUR PITY! I WILL GET-"
[Subaru]" Get out of here yourself, right? You want to have nothing to do with these people because they're all talk."
Felt's eyes widened as he just voiced what she was about to say.
[Subaru]" That's what you told me the first we met remember? I'm not here to pity you, Felt. I'm here to offer you a job. You'll get out of here and Rom as well, but you'll have to work for me."
Subaru smiled warmly at Felt. Even if he was trying to sugarcoat his intentions of truly wanting to help her with this story of employment, she wasn't a fool. She understood it, and that fact made her as happy as it pissed her off.
Reinhard and Rom too in fact, since they were both smiling along him. Reinhard knew his master and Rom, well, he knew Subaru was special.
[Felt]" What kind of use you could have of us…?"
Subaru chuckled; he lifted his finger up while explaining everything like a teacher in front of his students.
[Subaru]" Simple. Rom is known and respected in the slums as the owner of the loot house, I want him to be a bridge between me and these people since one of my goal is to help them having a better life, the fourth and fifth district are still quite large, having the support of the people around here would be a great advantage for me. I know what you think but sometimes you just can't help living here, if I get the chance for this, I want to give them hope to change. And you Felt, do I have to say it? You are fast, smart, strong willed and beautiful, why wouldn't I want to have you at my side? Having someone like you could strengthen my camp as hell and be a step further to the throne."
Rom laughed to the candidate's analysis while Felt blushed so much that her entire face wasn't so different than the color of her scarf.
Reinhard smiled wide at his master's plan. He was relieved to know that Felt could be safe and by their side. Subaru offered him a chance to make amends, again…
Felt looked down, unable to face him anymore. Subaru got up from his chair and went towards her and gave her his hand.
[Subaru]" Please Felt, be one of my strength to change this kingdom!"
The young girl looked around her to see the delighted face of Rom and the warm and eager face of Reinhard, nearly cheering on her to take his hand.
She then faced Subaru again, who smiled at her confidently with determination flowing down his eyes, as he knew she would make the right choice.
Still with some tears in her eyes, Felt wiped them and made the same smile to him, taking his hand.
[Felt]" All right, but it will cost you a lot!"
[Subaru]" Don't worry, Reinhard's rich!"
[Reinhard]" Suba-! Mh. No, that's true."
Rom fell on his chair with relief and laughter at the sword saint's reaction along with Felt and Subaru.
He took his glass and drank everything in one go, as to celebrate this turn of events.
[Subaru]" By the way, what is this place? I thought you lived in your loot house, Rom."
[Rom]" I did, this is simply an empty cabin that a deceased associate of mine owned. Since he wasn't there but the place was…Thought I might as well make use of it."
[Subaru]" Oh…"
Subaru and Reinhard looked at each other a bit worried about the situation they were in. Subaru mostly thought it was a rough style of life, especially for a child while Reinhard was more concerned about how was living a member of the late royal family.
[Felt]" It still really incredible that big bro and big sis are both royal candidates now that I think about it…Does that mean that you'll have to fight each other?"
Felt asked with a glint of sadness in her voice as she did not really want to go against her since she was joining Subaru.
[Subaru]" Don't worry about that, I already went to see her, and we talked this out. She and I are in an alliance now, we're not thinking about being a nuisance to one another."
Felt heaved a sigh of relief as she heard that, since it meant that things would work out well.
[Subaru]" Well come on. We were going home anyway, you guys are coming with us, our HQ will be the Astrea mansion."
[Reinhard]" HQ?"
[Subaru]" Headquarters. We will have our little base of operations with all our comrades and plans for the kingdom in there."
Subaru winked to Reinhard who answered with a smile and bow. If this was his master wishes, so it would be.
Rom and Felt both got up to retrieve some stuff before, which was respectively a bottle of booze and Felt's dagger.
They got out of the slums and walked towards the dragon carriage. At the sight of it, Felt quickly ran to see the dragon more closer, while Rom tailed her to be sure everything would be okay.
Seeing her happy and lively truly eased the soul of the duo carefully watching over them, yet by looking closer, they both thought of something at the same time.
[Subaru & Reinhard]"How the hell are we supposed to make Rom enter that carriage?"
There we go, Rom and Felt are on the boat. As you perhaps understood with this, next chapters will be focused on Subaru intrdocution to Lugunica politics and the Subaru camp progression into the game.
Aaaand the invetiable return of the suffering as well.
Actually, the more I try to visualise how Subaru would manage as a candidate, the more I simply don't understand how the other candidates would stand a chance against him...Aside from his personnality, the basics of his world are enough to create one hell of a revolution to the entire continent and of course the fact that he is a man among females is going in his advantage...Well I'll most certainly make use of everything I can to make it logic and justified.
I wanted to add the both of them since the beginning to this camp, but I didn't want to just overlook Reinhard's realization on who really was Felt, so I turned it like this.
I actually have one hell of an adventure in mind already, even if this will certainly go out of the main line a bit...
I hope you enjoyed and see you at chapter 6!
Q:Will this story focus on Subaru camp getting more members or the same premise?
A: Subaru will focus on his camp for now.
Q:Will we see characters from season 2?
A:Yup.
Q:Will you add Otto?
A: How the fuck am I supposed to do this without Otto?
Q:Will you make a team with Garifle and Otto?
A: Absolutely, I'm getting the whole gang here.
Q:Will we see them going to other places like Vollachia, Kararagi or Gusteko?
A: Yep, I have some very special things prepared just for that.
