[AN: Elsa doesn't show up since Roswaal won't send her... Subaru doesn't have RBD or any looping ability, so my logic is Roswaal wouldn't send an assassin to kill Emilia unless Subaru did have this ability. Also, Subaru isn't on Roswaal's radar as he has no abilities... just so the story makes more sense if anyone is confused. ]
Emilia clutched the insignia tightly in her hand, feeling a mix of emotions as she made her way through the capital's busy streets. She had just retrieved her insignia from the Castle, officially marking her as a candidate for the Royal Selection.
She felt a sense of happiness, knowing she was one step closer to achieving her dream of becoming the next ruler of Lugnica. But at the same time, she felt a sense of anxiety at the future that lay ahead of her.
The Capital was a place that was utterly foreign to her, and she felt out of place among the crowds of people who bustled about their daily lives. But at the same time, she knew that if she always stayed away from things that scared her or made her uncomfortable, she would never win the Royal Selection or save the elves frozen in the Elior Forest.
Ram stared at Emilia, thinking, "Emilia, should we return to Roswaal's manner?"
Ram continued to stare at Emilia, her words echoing in her mind. She knew Ram was giving her an out, offering to return to the safety and familiarity of Roswaal's mansion. But Emilia was tired of the same routine: always being cooped up in that place.
She thought about her life at the mansion, how servants like Rem and Ram surrounded her, and how she felt so alone. She longed for companionship, for the chance to be around people who were not bound to her by obligation.
And so, after much consideration, Emilia made up her mind. "Ram, I'd like to explore the Capital for a bit," she said. "I've never been here before, and I think it would be a good opportunity."
Ram nodded, a small smile on her lips. "Alright, Emilia, meet back here at sundown," she said. "I'll be waiting for you if you decide to leave earlier."
She was determined to make the most of this opportunity to see new sights, meet new people, and make new memories. Emilia felt a sense of excitement and anticipation as she set off into the city, eager to experience all it had to offer. However, she also felt fear of what people may think or consider her due to her appearance.
Emilia walked down the busy streets, taking in all of the sights and sounds of the city. The tall buildings, the bustling crowds, and the vendors selling their wares were all so new and exciting to her. But at the same time, she couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in the pit of her stomach.
Despite her excitement, Emilia couldn't help but feel self-conscious about her appearance. She knew that her silver hair and pointed ears marked her as an elf, a race often discriminated against in the Capital. She wondered what people would think of her if they judged her based on her appearance and heritage.
Subaru's eyes slowly fluttered open, and he was met with an utterly unfamiliar world. He was still in a daze, and it took him a moment to realize that he was no longer in the place he had been just moments before.
He looked down at his hand, still in his pocket where he had been about to stab himself. He slowly withdrew it, staring at it in disbelief.
His gaze shifted around him, taking in the strange sights surrounding him. He saw dragon carriages flying overhead, people dressed in clothing that looked like something straight out of a video game, and other things that he couldn't explain with any logic or reasoning.
He felt a sense of fear and confusion wash over him, and he couldn't help but wonder what had happened. He tried to remember the moments leading up to this, but everything was a blur.
What is this? Where am I? My clothing is still on me, not to mention my knife is still in my pocket. I don't get it. Is this some trick by god? I wouldn't believe it unless I saw it, but I can't explain what happened. I didn't die, though, so how did I get here?
I can understand the language of the people around me speaking. However, the writing is slightly different from Japanese writing. If I dismiss my concerns about how or why I got here in the first place, my priority should be trying to figure out where I am, and maybe... this world will be different than my last.
Subaru walked down the unfamiliar roads, his mind racing with conflicting thoughts. Part of him refused to believe that this place was real, that he was not just trapped in some sort of strange dream or alternate dimension. But another part of him was curious, wanting to explore this new world and see if it could offer him something better than his previous life.
As he walked, he became increasingly aware of the stares directed his way. He wore a simple white tee shirt and blue jeans, which stood out in this strange new world. But it was not just his clothing that was drawing attention - it was also the color of his hair. It was a bright, vibrant shade of blue that was unlike anything the people in this area had ever seen.
Despite the stares and whispers of the people around him, Subaru continued walking with determination. He was not going to let the opinions of others hold him back. He would explore this new world and see what it had to offer. He may find the happiness and fulfillment that eluded him in his previous life.
Well, my first concern is money. It's reasonably clear money exists in this world as well. It is hard to imagine a functioning society without money, so it does make sense. However, I don't have many options. I have no connections here nor knowledge of even where I am. This will be hard to figure out, but this is... exciting.
Subaru's gaze was drawn to a half-elf with shimmering silver hair donned in a pristine white robe. She stood out among the crowd, exuding the aura of nobility or perhaps the daughter of a noble family. Yet, despite her regal appearance, Subaru could sense a palpable discomfort or unease radiating from her. Something seemed to be troubling her deeply.
This may be a way to get me at least a place to stay and food. I haven't had to think about things like this in a while—a challenge. Not to mention I know nothing of this world nor this girl, but I try it, then miss out and end up on the streets when night falls. Not to mention she is cute.
Subaru begins to approach the silver-haired girl. Subaru noticed her eyes were the color of amethyst. Subaru was intrigued and interested in this girl, but he had no idea how to approach this situation.
Usually, any social interaction would be the same as breathing in terms of effort. But this is different. I will try my usual way of speaking and see how it goes. If it goes well, I'm unsure if I'll be disappointed or happy.
Then again, I can't stop thinking this is all a lie, a false reality. Reality is based on one's knowledge and awareness. Considering I got sent to this world and now lack both knowledge of this world and understanding of where I am or the culture that this area has, I'm in a terrible situation.
Subaru approached the silver-haired half-elf, who seemed overwhelmed, staring in multiple directions. Subaru pondered whether she was also unfamiliar with this location he was in or if it was an entirely different reason.
Ok, what do I say to what seems to be an elf judging by the ears, god what am I even thinking... is this reality?
Emilia's gaze fell upon the boy who was approaching her. The clothing he wore and the color of his hair were both unfamiliar to her, eliciting a sense of unease within her.
"Puck, there's something peculiar about that boy over there," Emilia said in a hushed tone to Puck. "He seems to be headed in my direction, but his appearance is unusual."
Puck cast a glance in the boy's direction. "I don't sense any ill intent from him, but there is something odd about him. Almost like he's overwhelmed by confusion," Puck replied, his voice filled with a hint of concern.
Subaru's musings were abruptly interrupted as his body instinctively drew his attention elsewhere. His eyes caught sight of what appeared to be a white feline soaring through the air.
Subaru begins to speed up, realizing the silver-haired girl saw him. Subaru felt embarrassed at his unusual lack of spacial awareness, but he was also utterly founded by what he just saw—a white-haired flying cat.
Subaru got close enough to speak to the silver-haired girl. Subaru began to talk like he'd speak to any girl at his high school and adjusted his body language and vocal tonality to match what he was about to say, "My apologies if you thought I was staring. I'm not entirely sure where I am. I feel you are also unfamiliar with this area... would you allow me to accompany you?"
Emilia stared at Subaru in a state of both happiness and shock. She never thought someone would ask her to accompany her to the Capital. Puck told her he sensed no malice from the boy, so she wasn't afraid either.
Before Emilia could speak, Puck said, "Lia, this boy seems strange. Maybe it would be better to decline his offer."
Emilia was mad at the suggestion. She craved friendship, but she didn't exactly know why yet. Emilia gave a cold stare towards Puck before responding to the boy, "Sure, I don't mind. What's your name?"
Subaru remembers that his parents would be sad whether he died, teleported, or this entire reality was a fabrication. He knew he couldn't use his family's name after what he did. Subaru responded, "My name is Subaru. What's yours and the flying cat?"
This is all so strange. Whatever argument within my head wins, whether it be that this world is a false reality and I should reject it or this is a second chance to live, and I should accept it. The outcome of this internal conflict will decide what I do soon. If I choose this world as a false reality... the only thing left is to see what happens if I die here... this struggle for control feels strange.
Subaru watched as Emilia hesitated to respond before hearing, "My name is Satella, and this is Puck."
That's odd. She's lying about her name being 'Satella,' but the question is, why is she lying? Usually, the only reason to lie about your name is negative reasons. No person proud of their identity would lie about their name. Unless... does she view me as a threat? She's shown no indication, but I can't rely on earth psychology. I need to ask her in a way that doesn't backfire.
Subaru returned the smile given by Emilia and changed his tone to a more compassionate and caring vocal tonality, "I feel I may be mistaken. But I'm unsure why someone like you would lie about your name."
Emilia's face turned a slight red. Emilia couldn't explain her feelings, but she was attracted to Subaru.
Puck said, "That was stupid, Lia, Subaru. My name is Puck, and her name is Emilia."
So I guess attraction works the same as on earth... however I cannot explain why she lied about her name, nor am I sure if I'm correct in my assumption yet. This is fun. I honestly can't predict anything or any responses I'm getting. I haven't experienced it in so long that I can't remember the last time I did.
Emilia spoke with a hint of insecurity, "Subaru, I want to ask you... why did you come up to me and ask to accompany me?"
Subaru thought about the question briefly before responding, "Well, for one, I have no idea where I am, and to be forward, I was hoping you could help me somehow. Also, you seemed to want a companion, so I asked."
I've wanted this for so long that it makes me wonder if this is a joke. Usually, I would never say something like this, but I should try different ways of speaking here to see what responses I get... wait for no, I shouldn't. Why kill the enjoyment I am experiencing now?
Emilia begins to question what Subaru means by helping him. But she also felt some sort of feeling, something she had desired for a while but had never felt before, so it was foreign. Emilia also questioned why Subaru didn't seem concerned with her appearance.
Emilia asked, "Subaru, that makes sense, but what about my appearance? Are you not bothered?"
What is she talking about?
Subaru took less than a moment to respond, "Your appearance? Honestly, I think you're cute. I don't know why you would think I'd be bothered by your appearance."
Subaru watched Emilia turn red and then took a few moments to composure herself. Subaru could only wonder what he was missing, what information he lacked, or if this Emilia was self-conscious about her appearance. Subaru also noticed the flying cat seemed to have a weird connection with Emilia.
Emilia asked in a slight tone of worry and suspension, "Alright... I guess you can accompany me, but did you mean what you said?"
This is bad. The concept of reality itself is crumbling in my mind. This is sick, but I may do another test. I have no idea what will happen this time, so it's up to luck, god, the devil, or whoever controls where I am to decide what will transpire.
Subaru took a deep breath before speaking, his voice clear and confident, "I guess I need to clarify my statement. I think Emilia is cute. That's why I said it. But when I said that, Puck seemed upset. I just want to ensure that it's not considered rude."
Emilia was thrilled by Subaru's compliment, as she had not received many genuine compliments. She was often surrounded by people with ulterior motives or simply showed her a fake, emotionless demeanor. Always by her side, Puck tried to keep her from interacting with others, and Emilia longed to make new friends.
Puck, on the other hand, was taken aback by Subaru's comment. He felt a protective instinct towards Emilia and saw it as his duty to keep her safe. He responded, "Emilia is my daughter, and it's my job to protect her."
Subaru quickly retorted, "It seems like you believe protecting her means keeping her isolated. But that's not the case. People are social creatures, and I don't think that changes in this world. By preventing Emilia from forming connections and relationships, you're putting her in a state of fear and despair."
Puck was speechless. He couldn't deny the truth in Subaru's words. He understood that Emilia needed to form relationships with others, but he didn't want her to be hurt by being too open.
This is a gamble, but let's see what happens. From what I can tell, Puck has no response; therefore, he either agrees or cannot create a valid response to counter my claim. Now let's see how he responds to this.
Subaru's smile returned as he locked eyes with Emilia's amethyst irises. "What do you say we change things up and make this a date instead of just me accompanying you?" he suggested, his voice filled with hopeful excitement.
Emilia's face turned a shade of red, resembling the hue of a ripe apple. However, Subaru quickly became aware of Puck's anger and potential hostility towards the suggestion. But at that moment, Subaru didn't seem to care if he faced any consequences, so Puck's intimidation tactics were ineffective.
Emilia merely inclined her head in response. While she didn't mind the suggestion, she couldn't help but feel irritated that Puck was continuously interrupting her one opportunity to explore the capital and potentially form a new friendship.
Subaru's face lit up with a smile at her nod. "Great, do you want to go explore together? I have no idea where we are, and I'm guessing you're not familiar with this place either," he said, his voice filled with excitement.
Emilia's lips curled into a warm smile. "Sure, you can lead the way," she replied, hinting at eagerness.
Subaru was still trying to make sense of the strange world he found himself in, but Emilia's cheerful presence helped to distract him from his thoughts. As they walked, they passed by bustling street vendors, towering buildings, and lively crowds of people from all walks of life.
Subaru observed Emilia's growing happiness and once again found himself plagued by doubt about the reality of his current situation. The thought nagged at him persistently, like a persistent illness.
As the sun set, Subaru and Emilia found themselves at a small park in the center of the Capital. The park was surrounded by tall trees that provided shade and a natural barrier from the city. The park was full of families and friends enjoying the day's last warmth. Children ran around playing with each other while their parents watched on with smiles on their faces.
"I just don't know," he muttered, "this whole thing just feels so surreal. I can't seem to grasp what's real and what's not. My mind is playing tricks on me, and I can't tell what's true."
He looked over at Emilia, who was still happily exploring the Capital, utterly unaware of his inner turmoil. He couldn't help but feel envious of her carefree attitude. But simultaneously, he didn't want to bring her down with his doubts and fears. He took a deep breath and tried to push the thoughts to the back of his mind, focusing on the present moment and the new world around him.
Subaru and Emilia sat down on an empty bench near a small pond. The water was still and reflected the sky's orange and pink hues. The sound of the water was calming and peaceful. Emilia was happy to be with someone who seemed to understand her, even though she knew little about him. She was used to being isolated and excluded, but with Subaru, she felt different.
On the other hand, Subaru was still trying to process everything that had happened to him. He was in a completely different world, with creatures he had never seen before and people who spoke a language he didn't understand. But despite all that, he felt a sense of comfort and familiarity with Emilia.
Emilia starting to figure out that Subaru was having some form of internal struggle, asked, "Subaru, what's wrong? You seem to have something on your mind that's hurting you."
I may be sloppy, or this world differs from Earth's. Usually, nobody could read my internal thoughts... however this just proves how fascinating this world is. But I still need some way to dismiss this concept of it being false.
Subaru sighed, "I'm not sure if this world is real. I'm not sure if what I'm experiencing is real or, honestly, anything. Reality is based on knowledge and awareness; I lack both now. The thought of this being a false reality is not something I want to entertain but remains in my head."
The two sat in silence for a while, enjoying the peace. Eventually, Subaru said, "Emilia, can I ask you something?"
Emilia turned to face him, "Of course, Subaru. What is it?"
Subaru took a deep breath before asking, "Do you believe in fate?"
Emilia looked thoughtful for a moment, "I'm not sure. I've always been told I have a destiny, but I've also been told I have the power to choose my path. I suppose it's a bit of both."
Subaru nodded, "I've always believed that everything happens for a reason. But now, I'm not so sure. I'm in a completely different world, and I have no idea how I got here. I don't know if this is fate or a strange coincidence."
Emilia touched Subaru's shoulder, "I think that no matter how we got here, we're here now. And that's what's important. We can either waste our time wondering how we got here, or we can make the most of our time here."
Subaru smiled at Emilia's words. Her words were comforting and gave him a sense of clarity. He was grateful for her being with him in this strange new world.
Subaru continued, "So, about my living situation... do you have any ideas?"
I feel shameful asking something like this, but I have no other options.
Emilia looked as if she was thinking, "Well, I can ask if you can stay where I'm staying, but I'm not sure if you'd be allowed to."
I still haven't asked some critical questions. I have no money nor value in combat or power in this world. However, I have something of use depending on the circumstances.
Subaru returned eye contact with Emilia, "I never asked. Why we're you in the Capital?"
Emilia thought about the question. She was unsure if she should tell Subaru she was a Royal Selection candidate.
Subaru noticed Emilia's hesitation, but Subaru needed to know, "Please tell me. I'm trying to think of a way I can be useful to you."
Please be something political. Please be something political. Other then politics or something related I'd be useless.
Emilia realizing what Subaru meant, responded, "I came here to retrieve my insignia. I am a Royal Selection candidate"
Okay that sounds political but I need a little bit more information before I can know for certain if I can help her.
Subaru responded, "Royal Selection candidate? What does that mean?"
Emilia couldn't help but let out a small laugh. Subaru was more clueless then she was, "A Royal Selection candidate is a person that is running to become the King of Lugnica. I am one of those people."
Subaru's eye's lit up after hearing that, "Alright then tell whoever's in charge that I will win you this Royal Selection."
"Thank you, Subaru," Emilia said, a small smile forming on her face. "I really appreciate your offer, but it's not that simple. The Royal Selection is a dangerous and competitive process, and I'm not sure if you understand what you're getting into."
I've waited so long to be able to use these talents of mine for something other then ruining the fun of my own life. This is beyond what I could imagine.
Subaru smiled, "Just trust me I have no doubt. My curse from my old life will become a weapon in this world."
Emilia looked at me confused, "Subaru, I can try but I can't guarantee anything. You'll have to conceive Roswaal who owns the mansion I'm staying at of your talent. But... I would like if you would be able to stay around so I'll try to help as best as I can."
Subaru nodded, "I would enjoy to be able to stay around you to Emilia."
This is going to be fun. But then again I shouldn't reveal to much. Given how important the idea of intelligence is to most people's vanity, it is critical never inadvertently to insult or impugn a person's brain power.