The morning sun was rising, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Subaru rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the grogginess of sleep as the dragon carriage approached Roswaal's mansion. He looked over to Emilia, who was still fast asleep, her gentle breathing filling the carriage.

Ram's voice was soft, but her words conveyed authority. Subaru couldn't help but feel a sense of respect for her. As she spoke, she turned her head back to make eye contact with Subaru, her purple eyes gazing into his own.

"We are almost there," she said. "Roswaal will not be returning for a day, so you may wait in a guest room until he arrives to ask if you can join Emilia."

Subaru nodded, grateful for Ram's guidance.

As they got closer to the mansion, the size of the place came into full view, and its grandeur once again struck Subaru. The tall towers and turrets seemed to reach toward the sky, and the walls were adorned with intricate carvings and paintings.

Subaru felt strangely familiar as the carriage pulled up to the mansion. This was a new life for Subaru, and he feared he might bring harm to those he cared for as he did in his old life. But Subaru was both curious and cautious about any new challenges ahead—a way for Subaru to repent for failures in his old life.

As Subaru stepped out of the carriage, he noticed a blue-haired maid standing at the mansion's front entrance. She looked similar to Ram, with the same quiet grace and poise. She was waiting for Emilia, and Subaru couldn't help but wonder if she was another of Roswaal's servants.

Subaru poked Emilia, trying to rouse her from her slumber. "Emilia, we're here," he said softly.

Emilia slowly woke up, looking a little sluggish at first. But she quickly regained her composure, looking slightly embarrassed. Subaru gave a slight laugh at her sleepy state, feeling a sense of fondness for the young half-elf.

"I'm awake, I'm awake," Emilia said, yawning. She rubbed her eyes and looked around, taking in the grandeur of the mansion. "Subaru, what do you think?" she said, referring to the estate.

Subaru returned Emilia's excitement, "Yeah, it's massive. Never been to a mansion this size before."

Emilia, Ram, and Subaru approached Rem, who was waiting.

Ram stepped forward, bowing respectfully to Rem. "Good morning, Rem," she said. "I trust you had a good night's rest?"

"Good morning, Ram," Rem replied, bowing in return. "I did, thank you. And may I say, it's a pleasure to meet you." She turned to Subaru, giving him a warm smile.

Subaru returned Rem's smile and asked, "Thank you for allowing me to stay here."

Rem simply nodded before beginning to guide the group back inside the mansion. Subaru started to wonder if this Roswaal person was some noble of Luginca. Subaru was both skeptical, and a little amazed as the interior of this mansion was even nicer than the exterior.

Emilia waved Subaru goodbye as she had to study for the Royal Selection, and Rem showed Subaru to his guest room. Decorations, high-quality furniture, everything screamed expensive. Subaru was surprised that even a guest room they'd give a total stranger was charming.

Subaru looked at Rem as she appeared to be leaving, "Wait, Rem, could you remind me when Roswaal will be returning?"

Rem looked at him with a bit of confusion, considering his lack of proper etiquette but responded, "Yes, Lord Roswaal will be returning tomorrow morning."

Subaru smiled, "Thanks, Rem appreciate it."

Well, what now? Am I just supposed to wait in here until tomorrow? Why do I just want to be with Emilia? It's so strange I just met her, yet I feel like I'm in love with her.

Subaru got out of the bed he had been lying in for only a few minutes and began to walk around the mansion.

This mansion is enormous. If I use that ability, I can search for the correct room without opening random doors… how do I activate it? Last time it started when Puck was about to attack me.

Wait, should I ever both? I don't want to deal with Puck.

Subaru sighed before opening the door that was his guest room but instead saw a young blonde-haired girl with star-shaped eyes in an extensive library.

Her looks and her age are going to be the exact opposite.

Subaru introduced himself, "My name is Subaru. I thought this was the door to my guest room."

The girl turned her head from the book she read, "My name is Beatrice, the one in charge of protecting the Forbidden Libary from others, I suppose."

Subaru sighed, "My apologies then for trespassing."

Before Subaru could leave, he heard, "Wait, I suppose."

Subaru turned his body back around and made eye contact with the girl's star-like eyes, "Your not human, are you?"

Beatrice sighed in annoyance, "You are correct. Betty is a spirit, in fact. Hold out your hands."

Betty? Is she referring to herself from a third perspective? This world is so strange.

Subaru held out his hands, and Beatrice began to drain mana from Subaru. Suddenly Frozen time activated again.

What the? Is Beatrice a threat or something? I need to learn how to activate this ability myself. Well, now, at least, I can search for Emilia.

Subaru begins to try to look outside the Forbidden Libary's doors but isn't able to in his third perspective view.

What? I was able to look this far before. I can look around in this Forbidden Libary.

Subaru looked around the room, not noticing anything of significance. He did see that the black book that he thought Beatrice was reading was… blank.

Why is she reading a blank black book? Do you need some sort of power to read it? I really need to learn how this world works.

When Subaru finished, his last thought, Frozen Time deactivated. He looked at Beatrice and slowly felt his energy being drained.

Subaru yawned, saying in a sleepy tone, "I don't know what you're doing, but I need to ask you something."

Beatrice let go of Subaru's hands, "What do you need to ask Betty, I suppose?"

Subaru responded, "I need to learn more about this world. Roswaal is returning tomorrow, and I'm guessing I'm going to need to convenience him that I'm worth keeping around. Do you mind if I read a few books?'

Beatrice looked unamused, "Fine. Betty can do that, I suppose."

Beatrice handed Subaru a book. Subaru barely being able to read it, but after flipping through multiple pages, he quickly began to understand the slight differences between the written language in this world and Japanese writing. However, the book he was given had a lot of words and names of places he had no idea what they meant or what they were.

Without knowledge, awareness is useless. I have very little understanding of anything in this world, and I can only rely on reading people's emotions… However, I can only assume this Beatrice person is a spirit like Puck based on what she said earlier. She has eyes that lack meaning or purpose. She wanted me to stay here because she was bored but also annoyed I was here. Contriditary responses usually mean some form of insecurity. I can only speculate, based on our small conversation, that she is either bored of her role guarding the library or doesn't want to leave for some reason. .. Regardless, I guess I'll ask her, and if she wants me to go, I'll get to see Emilia.

Subaru closed the book he was reading and stood up, "Beatrice, do you enjoy doing this job?"

Beatrice raised an eyebrow, her expression showing a mixture of surprise and frustration. "What do you mean by that? My responsibility is to protect this Libary, I suppose," she declared in a firm tone.

Subaru sighed, "Then why do your eyes show that you lack any meaning or purpose in doing this?"

Beatrice was annoyed by the arrogance Subaru spoke, "What do you know about Betty?"

Defensive. I am correct, but this conversation will go nowhere. I should leave a seed to blossom and talk to her later.

Subaru walks towards the door, "When I first came here, I also lacked any purpose. I tried to take my own life, but Emilia saved me and gave me a purpose to continue."

Before Beatrice could respond, Subaru left. Beatrice was confused about what Subaru had just said. His words were saddening, but Beatrice couldn't help but compare what he described to her state. She knew she lacked purpose or meaning, guarding a library for four hundred years alone. Beatrice decided if she saw Subaru again, she would try to be more open with him. The idea of having a purpose excited her.

When Subaru exited the Libary, he tried again to activate his Frozen Time, concentrating on starting it, but nothing he tried worked. It seemed to trigger on its own.

This is so frustrating. Why even have such a giant mansion with so many empty rooms? It's a waste of space and resources. I guess I'm in a world still in the feudal system, but Emilia being a candidate to become King is fascinating. I suppose a more progressive feudal system.

Either way… I just want to see her.

Subaru heard a voice say his name and turned around. He was both happy and surprised to see Emilia find him.

Subaru smiled, "Finally. I mean, Emilia, what do you need?"

This is the first time since I can remember that I've completely failed in a response. Is this social anxiety? No, that can't be it… it feels more profound than that.

Emilia returned the smile, "Well, I thought you might be bored, and tomorrow you'll have to give a reason for Lord Roswaal to let you stay here. I thought I could help."

Subaru nodded, "Yeah, I thought the same I was trying to find you, I mean… so should I tell Lord Roswaal to have him allow me to stay here?"

Again? What is going on?

Emilia giggled, "Do you want to come to my room to talk about it?"

Subaru nodded instantly. The two made their way to the other side of the mansion where Emilia's room was. Emilia's room was reasonably bland and notably contained no mirrors, which Subaru found strange as even his guest room had one.

Are you kidding? Why does her room have to be the exact opposite side of my room, this giant mansion? Why does she not have any mirrors?

After sitting in Emilia's bed without a second thought, Subaru asked, "Emilia, why don't you have any mirrors in your room?"

Emilia's tone turned shallow, "Well, it's part of my contract with Puck."

What? That fucking flying cat doesn't let her have mirrors? Does he want to make her feel bad about her appearance or something?

Subaru, before he could speak, gave Emilia a gentle hug.

What is going on? Now my body is moving on its own?

Emilia was shocked at first but enjoyed the affection. She never had anyone that would hug her, and only Puck would treat her like she was normal and ignore her resemblance to the Witch of Envy.

Subaru broke the hug after a few seconds, "Sorry, Emilia… I mean, I was going to ask you what other rules your contract has."

Why the actual fuck can't I speak normally? This is going to get very annoying.

Emilia slightly blushed, "How about we talk about how you're going to convenience Roswaal to let you stay here first?"

Subaru thought about an answer, and Emilia sat down on her bed beside Subaru.

Well, she's a Royal Candidate for… the Kingdom of Lugnica? I'm sure I'll figure something out.

What am I doing? I need to make sure I can stay here.

Subaru responded, "Well, I can help you with the political part… I can be your knight?"

Alright, I'm done. Just going to let whatever part of me is speaking for me continue.

Emilia turned her head, making eye contact with Subaru, "What do you mean help me with the political part I've been studying for so long… and you can be my knight."

Emilia was taken aback by her own words. She couldn't understand why she had said what she did, as Subaru didn't seem to fit the mold of a typical knight. He had a muscular build, but that wasn't enough to classify him as one. Despite this, she couldn't shake the feeling that her words had come from somewhere deep within her, and she wanted Subaru to be her knight.

Subaru felt overwhelming joy but didn't know why from Emila's response. However, he also was curious about how skilled Emilia was in politics which can be divided into multiple areas. He assumed at least that Emilia had a goal in mind to gain a following or voters.

Subaru stared at Emilia's amethyst eyes, almost feeling as if he was looking within her soul, "Emilia, what is your goal or reason you have in becoming the King?"

Emilia's smile begins to fade, "Subaru, it's a selfish reason, but I want to free the frozen elves in Elior Forest."

Subaru could tell Emilia felt discomfort and wrapped his arm around her back, "That's not selfish. But if your goal is that, you will most likely fail. To win any election, you must have a driving purpose directly related to your popularity."

After realizing what he had said, Subaru became aware that his arm was wrapped around Emilia's shoulders. He felt an inexplicable, almost irresistible pull towards Emilia's presence, and he couldn't understand why he felt this way.

Emilia frowned but felt comforted by Subaru's touch, "Well, I'm going to say that in my speech."

Subaru then asked, "Why are these elections held in a Kingdom? I'd assume if a King dies, then their son or daughter takes control."

Emilia was confused at Subaru's lack of knowledge, "The Royal family died out because of some strange illness. That's why the Royal Selections are taking place."

Right, an illness that just happens to affect high-ranking people of a Kingdom. It's just association or some internal conflict. Why am I still feeling this bliss of being so close to Emilia?

Subaru looked at Emilia skeptically, "So how exactly does becoming King even help you free the frozen elves?"

Emilia leaned her head on Subaru's shoulder, "It's so I can get the Dragon's blood. The blood has some healing factor that can even unfreeze the elves in Elior Forest."

Dragon's blood, which the King gets access to that, has a healing factor… yet all of the Royal family died. I'd assume if they had that… Wait, Emilia's head is on my shoulder. Why does this just feel right?

Subaru responded, "Well, I don't think that story makes much sense. I'd assume the Royal family would use the dragon blood to heal their sickness… it just doesn't add up."

Emilia lifted her head from Subaru's shoulder, "Wait, then why am I doing any of this?"

Why did I do that?

Subaru tenderly ran his fingers through Emilia's hair, soothing her. "It's okay, Emilia. I've already considered the entire royal family dying from sickness highly unlikely."

Emilia tilted her head, "What do you mean?"

"That more than likely the Royal family was assassinated," he continued, "that or some sort of internal conflict within the Kingdom but an illness that targetted only the Royals seems very unlikely."

Emilia's face returned to a tinder smile, "So you think the dragon blood will work?"

Subaru admitted, "Honestly Emilia… I don't know much about this world. I'd have to learn more to get a better idea, but your best option is still to become King. Even if the dragon blood doesn't work, you'll have the power and resources to find something that does."

Emilia remembered something she forgot to ask, "Subaru, I forgot to ask, but why don't you treat me differently?"

What? Did I do something wrong?

Subaru looked at her with confusion, "What do you mean?"

Emilia's eyes looked up before replying, "That I resemble the Witch of Envy. I just realized you never seemed bothered."

Who the fuck is that?

Subaru laid his head on the bed's pillow, "I have no idea what the Witch of Envy is, but nothing about your appearance bothers me. It's the opposite."

Emilia turned her head to regain eye contact, "Really? What do you mean by opposite?"

Emilia rested her head on the pillow beside Subaru, their faces mere inches apart. As their eyes met, a comfortable silence filled the air, their gazes locking peacefully.

Before Subaru could respond, Emilia's necklace lit a bluish color, and Puck flew out, punching Subaru.

Fucking Puck. Wonder if the ability will act this time. 'Frozen Time.'

Subaru was astonished as time froze directly after he finished his thought. However, Subaru found himself in an even worse situation if he didn't try to activate it because now he didn't know if it triggered due to a threat or his command.

After what Emilia said before, I doubt Puck will harm me. This connection, I feel, is something I've never felt. Is this just what it's like to be in love? But that word makes this connection feel less significant. I know how love is created and why both the chemical and psychological levels, yet none of those events occurred, and the only way I can describe how I feel… is in love with her… None of this makes sense. The basis of creating love on a physiologic level is simply two people being attracted to each other and the accumulation of positive memories, essentially a feedback loop. However, I just met Emilia and… I can't explain any of this… The only way to describe it would be philosophical, but why am I even trying to explain it… I should enjoy what feels like my soul is complete.

'Resume time'

Time resumed its flow, and Puck's gaze shifted towards him. The spirit's expression was a mixture of disappointment, anger, and a hint of envy. The disappointment was evident in his furrowed brows, and the anger was displayed through the tightness of his jaw.

Puck demanded, "Why are you and Emilia in bed together?"

Subaru yawned, "I was tired, and we were talking about politics."

Puck continued, "Leave now. Don't come back unless you are invited."

Emilia defends Subaru, "Puck, I invited him."

Puck looked at Emilia with worry, "Listen, Lia, just-"

As Puck spoke, the sound of a door closing cut him off. Subaru was already gone. He did not want to deal with that flying-cat; it was already getting late. He needed to figure out a way to deal with that cat.

Subaru made his way to his guest room. He was exhausted, and time flew quickly when he was with Emilia. He lay in his bed wondering what was happening or if he should try to understand it. Perhaps he should instead accept and enjoy it.

The following day came quickly, and the two maids were staring at Subaru he saw when he first arrived. Rem and Ram. He noticed both speaking in third-person conversations, similar to how Beatrice referred to herself. He was confused if this was some sort of trend in speaking patterns in this new world.

Subaru got up, sat on his bed, and made eye contact with Rem, "Good morning."

Rem bowed, "Good morning Subaru. Lord Roswaal will arrive in one hour, and breakfast will be prepared. You will be able to speak with him about being able to stay as a resident within the mansion."

Subaru smiled, "There's no need to bow, Rem. But thank you for informing me of Lord Roswaal's arrival."

Ram smirked, "Looks like Subaru learned proper etiquette."

Subaru responded with a humble tone, "Yes, I had no idea I was being disrespectful. My sincerest apologies."

Both Rem and Ram looked at Subaru almost in confusion. Both of them believed every word he said. He sounded like he was speaking from the heart, not a trace of a lie or deceit. This made Ram almost laugh, but Rem felt a bit guilty.

Rem returned Subaru's smile, "It's alright. Everyone makes mistakes. I have prepared this clothing for you. I hope it fits correctly."

Clothing? It may be like some weird medieval noble outfit.

Rem gave the folded clothing to Subaru, and he laid it on his bed to see what clothing Rem made for him. He was shocked to see the exact opposite of what he was expecting. Black pants and a white shirt with navy blue accents, and a jacket that complemented the outfit. She also brought a pair of boots that almost resembled his sneakers.

"Rem, thank you. You picked out my favorite colors, and the fabric feels incredible." he continued, "I am in your debt Rem."

Rem wasn't sure how to react because she had never got praise like that before, "Thank-s Subaru. I'll see you at breakfast."

Subaru waved as the two maids left the room. Subaru could tell that both of them when they entered, were suspicious of him, especially Rem. Still, after the conversation concluded, he could safely assume their suspicions were gone or at least subsided temporarily.

I don't get it. I can analyze and respond ideally to everyone I've spoken to since I arrived here but talking to Emilia is either my words or my body acts on its own. I'd like to believe the idea that maybe soulmates exist in this world, but it would be foolish of me to get my hopes up. After all, Satella told me I'd have to save this world, implying conflict would come eventually.

Subaru admired his reflection in the mirror as he wore his new outfit. He remembered how he used to wear similar attire in his old world, and it felt like a comfortable fit. The clothes were not too flashy or out of place and perfectly suited his style. He felt confident and ready to face his approaching encounter with Roswaal.

After about an hour passed, Subaru made his way down the halls remembering where the dining area was when he had to travel across the mansion to reach Emilia's room. He was shocked that Rem, Ram, Emilia, Beatrice, and even Puck were already there. He noticed the new person, who almost looked as if he was wearing a clown outfit, and assumed he was Lord Roswaal.

Subaru bowed in respect and introduced himself with a humble tone, "My name is Subaru. It's a pleasure to meet you, Lord Roswaal."

Subaru sat beside Emilia as he noticed Puck glaring at him. He also noticed Roswaal seemed to be thinking about something. Based on his appearance, he already could tell that he wasn't conservative in clothing or fashion. Usually, this can directly correlate with the person's ideals and philosophy, but Subaru didn't know enough about his world yet to make any proper conclusions.

Rem placed a bowl of what appeared to be some sort of soup.

Subaru smiled, "Thank you, Rem."

Rem's face showed a tiny bit of emotion before becoming neutral again. Subaru used his power to examine each person and find his best action.

'Frozen Time'

Time froze and allowed Subaru to examine everyone, most importantly Roswaal. He looked at his eyes which were heterochromatic. This intrigued Subaru as he's never met anyone with heterochromatic eyes. He already knew Puck disliked him. Beatrice being there confirmed that the seed he left worked, Rem and Ram seem to have no suspensions or ill intent towards him, but he has difficulty reading Roswaal. However, it was his first encounter, so he didn't expect to get much information. He only noticed a slight grin when he looked closer.

'Resume Time'

Time resumed, and Subaru made eye contact with Roswaal awaiting his introduction.

Roswaal grinned at Subaru, "Howww~ fascinating. First, I should tell you that I don't care about formalities. You may call me Roswal."

Roswaal continued, "Emiliaaa~ told me that you would like to stayyy~ as a resident at the mansion. Is that corrrecttt~?"

Subaru shook his head, "No, I would never ask to stay for free within your mansion. Emilia explained to me about her being a candidate for the Royal Selection, and I intend to help her as both a political adviser and perhaps even her knight."

Roswaal eyes beamed at Subaru's words, and his tone had conviction and certainty. He was curious about the Subaru as he hadn't appeared within the Tome of Wisdom. Roswaal concluded that he must be important later on, and the Tome will update to account for him then. However, Roswaal wanted to see what Subaru was capable of based on what he claimed so far by asking him a , after a brief silence, asked, "Subaru may I ask youuu~ a question?"

Subaru nodded in confirmation.
"Are you the type of person who would sacrifice to save someone dear to them, or woulddd~ you be the type of person who would not allow sacrifice at the expense of the person you hold dearrrr~?"

What kind of question is this? If he wants to have a philosophical debate, we will have a long conversation. The way he posed the question almost gives the sense that he's assessing my character rather than anything to do with politics. However, neither option is correct.

Subaru responded within moments of Roswaal's inquiry, "Roswaal, I don't know the premise for what you asked me, but the concept you just stated isn't as simple as picking one option. In other words, the question itself results from a law or dynamic, almost like a concept that controls us all. The question you gave me is simply a question of duality, for example, vengeance or hatred born to protect love, so either answer is correct."

Roswaal wasn't sure how to respond as he considered the concept that Subaru spoke of. He wondered about the intelligence of this boy as he had never even thought of a concept like that, but the more he considered the idea, the more it made sense to him and applied to many things he's experienced in his life. The test he gave Subaru turned out better than either response he may provide, so Roswaal was both impressed and curious about the origin and nature of this boy.

Roswaal's grin grew more prominent, "Subaruuu~ you piqued my interest. You will be allowed to be a resident of the mansion, Emilia's political adviser, and her knight. Do you have any magical affinities?"

Perhaps this would be the right time to add a little drop of water to the seed I'm growing.

Subaru nodded, "I have a specific spirit in mind that I want to contract."

Beatrice looked at Subaru, but Subaru's vagueness prevented her from speaking.

Roswaal picked up a cup of tea, "I'm sureee~ you will do a great job being Emilia's political adviserrr~. I'm sure Beatrice will come around to you eventually, tooooo~."

Intriguing. He was able to deduce the meaning of what I said without ever knowing any interactions that we had. However, I doubt that was a deduction made by analysis, and more than likely, Roswaal has known Beatrice far longer, which gives him a simple edge… However, I should be careful around this man. He is hiding something, but I'm unsure of the details or significance.

Emilia smiled and turned to look at Subaru sitting next to him, "Subaru, you will be staying. I'm soooo happy."

Wait, if she breaks my usual way of acting… Stay in my logical mindset I can be emotional with her privately.

'Frozen Time'

That's weird. The activations before when a threat was coming have now almost become an instinct to complement the Frozen Time ability. Now, who is it? More than likely Puck since he's been floating around staring at me this entire time. Subaru switched to a third perspective view to analyze Puck and saw what looked to be the formation of tiny icicles. Subaru could only assume Puck is attempting to hit two vital points with the tiny needle-like icicles so he wouldn't get blamed… smart, but I have three protections in this scenario. One is Emilia is close to me, the second is Beatrice, and the third possibility is Roswaal…. The only question is if I should allow him to strike me. If I point out that he was creating them, the naked eye wouldn't be able to see the formation from that distance, and I'd become more suspicious. In this case, I do something drastic to change the environment quickly.

'Resume time'

Subaru, the moment he resumed time, gave Emilia a hug positioning his back towards Puck.

"Emilia, thank you so much," Subaru continued turning his head to Roswaal, "Roswaal, thank you as well for giving me this opportunity."

Subaru turned to Puck, "Puck, I know we have had our differences in the past, but I would like to get off on a clean slate. I hope you can find it in your heart to agree."

He will strike me any second, and I won't have time to evade. Luckily there are two healers here or possibly three, so I should survive… this is a gamble, but I'm so sick of this cat, and this is the best way to get rid of him.

Puck stared at Subaru in disgust, sensing both malice and lies coming from him. He shot two larger-sized icicles instead, this time toward Subaru's heart and head.

'Frozen Time'

The icicles are coming at my head and heart. Beatrice is watching, and Roswaal looks like he's about to intervene, but I'd guess there's a two or three-second delay. My only chance is to move in the right or left direction. If I move to the right, Emilia's safety will be threatened however, if I move to the left, I won't have space to avoid because of the chair's shape… This fucking cat made it, so my only option is to move my head and get an icicle sent into my lung. Not as bad as my heart, so I'll take it.

'Resume Time'

Subaru quickly moved his head and moved his body towards Emilia, so the icicle missed his heart but impaled his lung.

Now with my last few seconds, I must add the last little drop of the seed that has grown into a flower.

Subaru groaned in pain. He stared at Beatrice, "Beatrice… help."

Subaru's knees buckled, and he fell to the ground as his vision blurred and cloudy. He felt dizzy and disoriented, and he struggled to maintain consciousness. The surroundings around him started spinning and fading into darkness, and he felt like he was losing touch with reality. He could not stand or move, and his body was consumed by weakness and exhaustion.

Okay, so my beta reader wasn't able to beta this, so not sure how good it'll be, but it's good.

For those that see Frozen time similar to King of Pride, Subaru's ability notes the very vital differences:

Subaru can stop time to think and can also observe from a third perspective. However, he doesn't gain any intuition or foresight from this unless it's his logical conclusion.

So there similar, but honestly, I had such a hard time figuring out an ability to fit this Subaru and time to think/plan fits best.

The ability will also NEVER be expanded. If Subaru dies, he dies.

Also, the Tome of Wisdom doesn't pick up Subaru as the looper, so Roswaal is under the impression that the person hasn't arrived yet.

I'm thinking about using the two-month time gap between the mansion and the Royal Selection to put arc four in it, so it'll go arc 1, arc 2, arc 4, arc 3, and arc 5. Let me know what you guys think of that.

Lastly, people may be perplexed about how quickly Emilia and Subaru's relationship is developing so please note that isn't bad or wrong characterization for me it's foreshadowing.

Every character in this story is technically cannon, so keep that in mind (It'll be explained later)

Also, once I get more chapters out, you'll miss these fluff ones :D