Subaru POV
I grit my teeth, bracing myself for yet another round against Wilhelm. The sun beats relentlessly upon the training grounds, casting elongated shadows. Despite my muscles protesting from previous bouts, I refuse to succumb to fatigue.
"HAAAAAH!" I bellow as I propel myself forward, sword poised to breach Wilhelm's defenses.
"Ack!" Yet again, he effortlessly sidesteps my attack, swiftly retaliating with a strike of his own. The clash of wood fills the air, and I am sent reeling backward, the impact of his wooden sword reverberating through my body.
"Again," Wilhelm's voice remains steady, unwavering.
"Again? Alright!" I affirm, determination coursing through me. I cannot afford to lose focus now, not when I sense a breakthrough within reach. With renewed determination, I charge forward once more, driven by desperation and resolve.
"ACK! OWWWW!"
But no matter my efforts, Wilhelm always anticipates my moves. Each attempted strike is effortlessly parried, every opening I seek promptly closed. Frustration mounts, threatening to overwhelm me.
"SHIT! OW! That hurts!"
As the sun dips beneath the horizon, I find myself panting heavily, sweat trickling down my face.
Glancing at Wilhelm, I see a blend of concern and disappointment in his gaze.
"Shall we stop for now?" His words sting my wounded pride. "Forgive me, but enduring such punishment for minimal gain is, frankly... unwise."
"Heh! Don't underestimate me... You've witnessed my resilience! If I endure more of this, my defense will undoubtedly improve," I retort, wiping the sweat away.
Yesterday's humiliating defeat at the hands of Julius, the Finest of the Knights, was a blow felt keenly, especially as it unfolded before the eyes of nobility and fellow knights. Even Emilia's abandonment added salt to the wound. Yet, I refuse to allow this setback to define me. With a fierce determination surging through my veins, I lock eyes with Wilhelm, ready to face whatever comes next.
"I will grow stronger," I declare firmly. "No matter the cost."
Wilhelm offers a small, encouraging smile before motioning towards the training grounds once more.
"Then let us press on," he says, his tone gentle yet resolute. "There is much work to be done."
As our training session came to an end, I found myself drenched in sweat and covered in bruises. Nevertheless, I refused to display defeat. Instead, I mustered a defiant expression as I settled amidst the grass in the garden, taking a moment to catch my breath.
"Your demeanor is surprisingly positive this morning, Subaru-dono. I must admit, I didn't anticipate that after the events of yesterday," Wilhelm remarked, taking a seat beside me and placing a comforting hand on my shoulder.
"Oh, that?" I responded with a scratch on my head. "Yeah, it was a rough Day. But what can I do? I got caught up running my mouth, trying to defend Emilia-tan...Turns out, she doesn't need or want defending. And to top it off, I foolishly accepted that knight's challenge...I feel like such a pathetic loser," I confessed to Wilhelm, feeling tears welling up in my eyes, my heart shattering into a million pieces.
Experiencing a beating from a pompous knight or even enduring being expelled from the castle halls—those I can endure. But being abandoned by Emilia-tan? That's a pain my heart refuses to bear.
"Don't be too hard on yourself, Subaru-dono. What's done is done. What truly matters is what you take away from the experience," Wilhelm comforted me with gentle words.
"I know, Will... But still... What if Emilia doesn't want me back anymore? She needs me! I have to be there for her!" I replied, my voice trembling with emotion.
"Let me be honest with you, Subaru-dono. Your time with Lady Emilia seems to have reached its end. Your actions yesterday made sure of that, so whatever your reasons may be to stay by her side... they're no longer in play," Wilhelm said with a seriousness that sent a pang through my heart once more. "Look, Subaru-dono, we all lose people in our lives... and the sooner you come to terms with that, the better off you'll be." With those words, he stood and began making his way back to the manor, but not before adding, "You have potential, Subaru-dono. However, your style needs refinement. I'll teach you some intermediate techniques tomorrow."
I nodded in response, my mind drifting someplace where everything was still alright, where I still stood beside my Emilia-tan.
"Subaru-kun!" Suddenly, I heard Rem's voice calling out, and I turned to see her. Damn, She looked super cute. "Let's go inside now! Rem will heal your wounds and clean you up, Subaru-kun."
It was already early afternoon as I sat at the grand piano in the elegant living room of the Karsten Manor, my fingers dancing across the keys as I immersed myself in a haunting melody.
The music filled the room, weaving a tapestry of emotions that mirrored the turmoil within my own heart.
Beethoven's Sonata No. 14, "The Moonlight Sonata." Even under the hot summer sun, scorching the capital city of Lagunica, it conjured images of the moon shining in the dark night. It's a piece that carries a melancholic, perhaps longing tone. It's my favorite piece. In fact, I love it so much that it soothes my soul in moments like these, where despair and sadness threaten to overwhelm me.
Unbeknownst to me, Crusch stood at the doorway, silently observing. Her presence served as a gentle reminder of the guilt weighing heavily on my shoulders, the burden of my recent defeat and humiliation still fresh in my mind. So when I noticed her, my eyes widened.
"Go on, don't mind me," she said with a firm yet soothing voice. I nodded and continued playing.
As the final notes of the Sonata faded into the air, I exhaled slowly, feeling the tension drain from my body. Looking at the Duchess, I then noticed her expression, her eyes filled with a mixture of curiosity and concern.
"Natsuki Subaru," she spoke softly, her voice cutting through the silence like a knife. "You play with such passion."
"Thanks," I said with a sheepish grin, running a hand through my hair in appreciation.
"May I inquire about the title of that piece?" Crusch spoke once again as she sat beside me on the piano chair, her tone curious. "I don't believe I've heard it before."
"Uh, Yeah, it's called the Moonlight Sonata," I replied, feeling a swell of fondness for the haunting melody. "It's one of my favorites, actually."
"Moonlight Sonata?" She then put a finger on her chin as she went into deep thought. "Has the Lady Emilia or Margrave Mathers heard you play it before?" Crusch's inquiry sparked a pang of guilt in me.
Have they?
"No," I admitted, my shoulders sagging with the weight of my confession. "I never had the chance to play the piano at Roswaal's. I was always too busy there, doing chores or playing with the kids. Hell, I think I even forgot I knew how to play the piano! Hahaha."
"Is that so?" Crusch's expression softened with understanding. "Then how did you learn to play the piano, if you don't mind me asking?"
"No, it's okay," I replied with a shrug, a wistful smile playing on my lips. "I wasn't really into playing before, but when I saw a piano at the age of nine, it was like I was instantly hooked. It felt natural. And when I heard the Moonlight Sonata, it was as if I fell in love with it, like I had played it in a past life."
"Past life?" Crusch chuckled softly, her laughter a balm to my troubled soul. "You're quite amusing, Subaru."
"Is that so?" I chuckled in response, a forced smile spreading across my face. "Then that's why they call me the clown of the Roswaal Manor, hahaha!" I said with a strained laugh, discrediting myself once more.
"Natsuki Subaru," Crusch responded with a sympathetic tone. "It would be disingenuous to deny that what you did yesterday was anything but foolish... nonsensical even. At this point, what matters is not what happened yesterday, but what your next actions will be. What will you do now?" she asked, her voice filled with sincerity.
"Is... it really too late?" I said, my voice heavy with pain as I closed my eyes, trying to hold back my tears. "I know what I did was wrong... but mistakes happen, you know... I didn't mean for it to-"
"None of that matters now, as Lady Emilia has already determined your fate," Crusch interjected, rising from her seat and resting a hand on my shoulder before departing. "You will continue your treatment under Sir Felix until our obligations to your former mistress are fulfilled. After that, your future is uncertain. However, it's crucial that you heed the decree of your former mistress, especially as a royal candidate: you must stay away from her from now on," she emphasized, her words reverberating in the chamber as she left, leaving me utterly shattered.
"I see," I whispered, closing my eyes as tears flowed down my face. "I already knew the answer, but... how come it still hurts so much?"
The night enveloped us in its embrace, casting a serene aura over the garden of the Crusch Manor where Rem and I sat. Nestled in her lap, her fingers weaving through my hair, I found solace from the chaos that plagued my mind. The moonlight filtered through the foliage, painting enchanting patterns on the ground.
"How was your day, Subaru-kun?" Rem's voice, like a gentle melody, broke the silence that enveloped us.
"Ah, my day?" I sighed, letting myself sink deeper into her comforting embrace. "It was... rough, Rem. Training with Wilhelm-san is always a challenge, but today felt especially draining. It's like I'm stuck in one spot, unable to move forward," I confessed, the memory of my humiliating training session with the stern butler replaying in my mind.
"You worry too much Subaru-kun," Rem reassured me, her fingers continuing their tender massage as she listened intently. "You'll get there Rem, believes in you," she added softly, her voice brimming with unwavering support.
"Thanks, Rem. And about the food here at the Crusch?" I paused, a mischievous glint in my eye. "It's nice and all, but..." I trailed off, a playful grin tugging at my lips. "Your cooking will always be my favorite."
Rem chuckled, her laughter like a soothing melody in the tranquil night.
"Oh, Subaru-kun, you always know how to make me smile." Suddenly, Rem's expression shifted, a thoughtful look crossing her features. "By the way, Rem didn't know Subaru-kun was that skilled at playing the piano."
My eyes widened in surprise. "Wait, you saw me playing?"
"Uh-huh," Rem nodded, a playful pout forming on her lips. "Rem snuck up on her Subaru-kun while he was playing this afternoon. You were sitting beside the lady Crusch."
I couldn't help but chuckle at Rem's adorable display of jealousy. "Ah, I see. Well, it seems I can't keep any secrets from you, can I?"
Rem's pout melted into a warm smile. "No, you can't. But it's okay, Subaru-kun. Rem doesn't mind. She just loves spending time with you, no matter what you're doing."
Her words filled me with warmth, and I leaned up to gently caress her cheek. "Thank you, Rem. And I love spending time with you too. You make even the toughest days bearable," I said, my voice tinged with a hint of vulnerability.
"You're very much welcome Subaru-kun. And worry not, Rem is sure her hero will get through this stronger. Rem believes in you,"
As we sat in silence, the night enveloped us in its tranquility. In Rem's embrace, amidst the fragrant blooms of the garden, I found solace and strength. I couldn't afford to lose her, not after losing Emilia. If that were to happen, I don't think I could live anymore.
My glance then shifted toward the magnificent trees near the gates of the Karsten Manor; their silhouette against the night sky was beautiful.
"Huh? What the..." Suddenly, my eyes squinted as I caught sight of three cloaked figures, crouching amidst the branches.
"Hey, Rem, did you see tha-?" I uttered softly, my heart rate quickening with unease. But as I rubbed my eyes...They vanished?
"See what, Subaru-kun?" she asked me with a curious tone.
"...Three people... in that tree," I uttered, my voice trailing off uncertainly.
"Rem didn't see a thing, Subaru-kun," Rem responded, her expression filled with concern.
"Huh? But I swear I saw them, Rem," I insisted, my mind still racing with the image of those cloaked figures. "they were right there in that tree."
Rem placed a gentle hand on my shoulder. "You're probably just tired, Subaru-kun. Maybe we should get some rest. We have an early start tomorrow, remember? You promised Rem we'd explore the city."
"Oh." After a moment of deliberation, I sighed and shrugged my shoulders. "Yeah, you're right. Must be my exhaustion playing tricks on me...Oh, right, I did promise that, didn't I? Guess we gotta go then."
I opened my eyes again, finding myself in a dark, shadowy realm. The air was thick with an oppressive darkness, and I could barely make out my surroundings.
"Fuck... Where am I?" I muttered, my voice echoing into the void.
I took hesitant steps forward, my heart pounding with unease. The darkness seemed to swallow me whole, enveloping me in its suffocating embrace. Fear gripped my chest like icy claws as I struggled to find any semblance of light or direction in this eerie place.
"Is this... a dream?" I wondered aloud, my voice trembling with uncertainty.
"I love you," I then heard a feminine voice.
"What the..." Looking around to find the source, my eyes scanned the void. "Hey, who are you?" I spoke calmly.
Suddenly, a woman appeared—a silver-haired woman, her ears pointy and her skin porcelain white. Her attire was a mix of black and purple. "I love you,"
As she neared me, I could definitely see her eyes. Amethyst. Who is she? "I love you," she said once more.
"Hey! Who are you!" I screamed.
"I love you."
"Can't you say anything but 'I love you'?!" I spoke, my voice annoyed.
"I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you." Like a crazed individual, the elf repeated, in a threatening and ominous way.
She then began to swing left and right, in a very eerie and odd way. Fear gripped my heart as the black clouds of miasma started filling the void.
Frozen in shock, I then heard a voice, though even more chilling than before.
"We are Shadow Garden. We lurk in the shadows, and hunt the shadows," it said in a male voice.
"Huh? What do you mean?!" I screamed, desperation lacing my words.
"It's imperative that you break free," the voice commanded.
"Are you dumb?! How can I? I don't have Powers! I'm very weak!" I pleaded, my voice tinged with desperation.
"You do have power. More power than you realize," the voice responded cryptically.
"How?" I demanded, my heart pounding in my chest.
"Three words," the voice stated.
"What three words?" I asked, confusion mingling with fear as the elf closed the distance and the miasma thickened.
"Three words," the voice repeated once more, its tone echoing in the darkness.
"What fucking three words—" I began, but my words turned into a startled cry as the silver-haired elf now embraced me, suffocating me even more. Panic surged through me as her grip tightened, the darkness closing in, overwhelming and suffocating.
"I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you. I love you." Her words echoed relentlessly, each repetition weighing heavier on my chest.
"You know those words, You own it!" the male voice interjected once more, its tone pressing and commanding.
"What words? What the heck are you talking ab—" But before I could continue, the words invaded my consciousness like a thunderclap.
"You are! You are! What are you?!" said the male voice once more.
"I-I am. I-I am," I struggled to speak as the suffocation thickened. "I am."
Mustering every ounce of strength I had, I finally did it.
"I AM ATOMIC!" I screamed, the words tearing from my throat with explosive force.
Suddenly, my body surged with violet light, an overwhelming rush of power coursing through me. The shadows and void around us began to disperse as if banished by the surge of energy within me.
Through the haze of power, I could now see the silver-haired elf, tears streaming down her face, fear etched in her eyes.
"Flugel... please!" she pleaded desperately.
Then, without warning, a colossal explosion engulfed both of us, hurling her away and dispersing the shadows that had enveloped us.
"FUUUUUUUUUUCK!"
I jolted upright in bed, gasping for air, my heart pounding erratically. It was all just a dream—a strange, unnerving dream. My entire body was drenched in sweat, and as I scanned the room in Karsten Manor, I realized morning had already arrived. "Shit, what the fuck was that?"
Suddenly, a knock echoed through the room. "Subaru-kun, time to wake up, sleepyhead. It's time for our shopping," a familiar voice called out.
It was Rem. Her gentle tone cut through the remnants of my nightmare, grounding me in reality. With shaky breaths, I called back, "Y-Yeah, I'm awake. Thanks, Rem."
I swiftly rose from the bed and hurried to the bathroom, taking in its luxurious setup, a stark contrast to my room back at Roschi's Manor. As I washed my face at the lavish sink, I caught sight of my reflection in the mirror. "I am... what?!"
Standing in the central square of the bustling market district, my gaze was drawn to the bulletin board.
As I scanned the notices, several announcements captured my attention.
The first heralded the commencement of the royal selection, a pivotal event shaping the kingdom's political future, where the next ruler would ascend to the throne.
Following were profiles of the candidates competing for the Royal Throne:
Crusch Karsten, the Valkyrie Duchess
Anastasia Hoshin, CEO and proprietor of the multinational Hoshin Trading Company
Priscilla Barielle, the Baroness of the esteemed Barony of Barielle, renowned for her aristocratic demeanor
Felt, the once-penniless slum dweller who once stole my mistress's insignia, and is now being sponsored by Reinhard.
And Last but not least, my former mistress herself: Emilia
My attention lingered on Emilia's entry, stirring a whirlwind of emotions within me. Her name evoked memories of our intertwined past.
"If only I had kept my promise," I reflected, consumed by remorse. "If only I hadn't made such grave mistakes... If only…"
Regret and longing gnawed at my heart as I pondered the "what ifs" that plagued my thoughts.
"Interested in the royal selection as well?" A green-haired man, donning a bandana, suddenly materialized beside me, catching me off guard.
"Whoa! Don't sneak up on me with that face old man!" I exclaimed before regaining my composure. "Wait, where's Rem?"
Looking back, I could see her tending to the appa stand Kadamon left, selling appas to customers.
"Don't let someone without experience watch your shop, dude," I advised Kadamon, but he ignored my words.
"Five candidates, huh?" he muttered as he scanned the announcement board. "If you ask me, letting a half-elf be one of them is pure insanity." Frustration laced his voice as he rested his hands on his chin. "Emilia? There's no way someone who resembles a witch could become our ruler. They've gotta be out of their minds," he added with a hint of disdain, which ticked me off.
"Why do you all say that? It doesn't mean she has anything to do with the witch!" I roared.
"Huh?" Kadamon looked at me with a shocked expression.
"Just because she's a half-elf, don't lump them together and brush her off!" I spoke, my voice filled with frustration. "That Emilia girl... I mean...She might really care about this kingdom's people, too!"
"Hang on, why are you getting so worked up?" Kadamon asked, eyeing me.
Ignoring his question, I continued expressing my thoughts. "Why is it... because of the Witch of Envy? Now you all think all half-elves are dangerous and evil, just because the witch was one?!" I practically screamed, the crowd of people from various races now surrounding me and the appa vendor.
"That's right!" the appa guy retorted with a serious tone, closing the distance between us. "Everyone's scared of the witch. That's common knowledge. So as long as people see her that way, she will never win," he explained, pausing to catch his breath before continuing. "Jeez, who would actually choose to support her?" He then placed a comforting hand on my shoulder, his eyes reflecting understanding. "Relax, kid, and try not to say the word 'witch' too loudly in public. You never know who's listening, right?"
"...Yeah, okay," I replied with a sigh, feeling the weight of his words sinking in.
As Kadamon nodded and retreated to his stall, I found myself standing alone amid the bustling crowd. People jostled me, causing me to stumble and fall to the ground. "You didn't tell me everyone felt that way about you..." I muttered to myself, the words barely audible over the clamor of the marketplace.
My thoughts drifted back to Emilia's words before she left me.
"I can't understand if you don't tell me, Subaru," she had said yesterday.
A wave of frustration and loneliness washed over me. "But I can't understand if you don't tell me, either... You're the main character after all...And I'm just a background trash," I whispered bitterly, the weight of my words echoing in the crowded space. "I'm such a Pathetic loser."
Laying there, lost in my thoughts, I suddenly heard a voice. "My lord," the voice called out.
Startled, I turned to the source of the sound. What I saw took my breath away.
Standing before me stood a stunning young woman with an athletic figure and a noticeable bosom.
She wore a sleek black suit adorned with golden stripes, accentuating her graceful form. Her eyes, a mesmerizing honey-yellow, perfectly matched her long, honey-blonde hair, with short bangs framing her forehead and curls cascading down into elegant spirals.
"Pardon?" I replied, still shocked by the sight of the beautiful girl before me.
"Believe in yourself, my lord," she spoke with gentle reassurance, her voice a comforting melody as she closed the distance between us. "Believe in your ideals... in your dreams. Let them guide you, for they are the essence of your being."
"Huh?" is all I could answer, confusion apparent on my face.
"I promised to understand your dream, to stand by your side as you pursue it," the girl's voice was a whisper, carrying with it a sense of unwavering support.
Her delicate hands cradled my face gently, her touch like a comforting embrace that enveloped me in warmth. As she sat opposite me, her gaze locked with mine, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by her presence.
She was the embodiment of beauty, surpassing even the enchanting allure of Rem, Crusch, and the other candidates...Surpassing even Emilia herself.
"Huh? What are you talking about? Who are you?" My words stumbled out, a mixture of confusion and awe reflected in my widened eyes.
"Even if the whole world should reject you, know that I will always cherish you," she replied, her voice overflowing with tenderness and sincerity. Her words felt like a lifeline, grounding me amidst the tumultuous currents of uncertainty.
"What?" I could only stare back at her, mesmerized. They say the eyes are the window to a person's soul and aspirations, and just by looking into hers, I could find no lies in her words.
Only truth. Only love
"Subaru-kun!" I heard Rem's voice calling out. "What are you doing there on the floor?"
"Wait Rem! It's not what it looks like," I replied quickly, scrambling to my feet. "I don't even know who this woman is."
"What woman?" Rem asked, confused.
"This... huh?" I glanced around, realizing the girl who had been clutching my face just moments ago was nowhere to be seen. "What the heck... She was just here a second ago."
"Who, Subaru-kun? Rem didn't see anyone with you. Are you feeling okay? Maybe you're tired from all the shopping. Do you want to return to the Karsten Manor, Subaru-kun?" Rem inquired, her tone filled with concern.
"But I swear! She was blonde and beautiful and..." I trailed off as I noticed Rem's skeptical expression. "Uh... never mind," I muttered, feeling a sense of unease creeping over me. "You said you wanted to shop at the upper market district, right?"
"Yes," Rem confirmed cutely with a nod.
"Ight, lead the way, Rem-rin," I said, using her affectionate nickname. However, as we left for the upper merchant district, I couldn't shake the feeling...Am I being watched?
"Subaru-kun, please stay here and wait for Rem," she says, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Rem wants to find the perfect dress for herself and her Subaru-kun," she adds cheerfully.
"Sure thing," I nod in response, offering her a reassuring smile. "Take your time, Rem. I'll be right here."
As Rem disappears into the crowd of shoppers, I find myself idly wandering through the market square.
This part of the district is much more luxurious and affluent, evidenced by the buildings and shoppers—far more elegant than where Kadamon stays.
"Fuck, maybe that arrogant Julius has a house or two around here," I mutter bitterly to myself.
As my mind drifts, absorbing the sights and sounds around me, suddenly, something catches my eye—a long line of people stretching off into the distance, drawing my curiosity like a magnet.
"Huh? What in the world is all this about?" I mutter, my curiosity piqued as my gaze follows the line to its end. To my surprise, I find myself staring at a table stacked with books, and seated behind it is none other than an author signing copies.
"A line for books, huh? I didn't expect to find something like this here," I murmur, scanning the banners near the line. "Sponsored by... Mitsugoshi Corporation?"
Cutting the line stealthily, I find myself standing before a table stacked with books.
"Romeo and Juliet?! 'I am a Dragon'?! What the heck!" I exclaim, shocked at the existence of these books that are clearly from Earth. As I look at the others, my shock increases tenfold. "A 'Useless Goddess' in this wonderful world? 'The Saga of Tanya the Loli'? 'Overmind'? 'Restarting Life as a Brokeboy in Another World'?! Hey, these are clearly Japanese Novels!" I can't help but scream.
"Hey, boy, keep it down, will you!" a man nearby shouts.
"Yeah, we're all here as fans, eager to get some good stories, and you're ruining the atmosphere," a girl chimes in this time.
"Really? Fans?" I raise my eyebrows in surprise.
"Yes, we're fortunate to witness Miss Natsume herself today! So, for the sake of this event, please keep quiet!" a catgirl adds.
"...Natsume?" I utter in disbelief. Isn't that a Japanese...Name? "Who?" I add incredulously.
"Are you serious, mister?" The catgirl's incredulous response catches me off guard. "How can you not know who she is? Miss Natsume Kafka is the best writer in the world, spanning all genres from love to fantasy to thriller," she declares passionately.
I shake my head, feeling a bit defiant. "Nah, I don't think so," I replied skeptically. "That author is probably a fake! I bet she stole her works from some poor broke boy." I shake my head again, feeling sure of my stance. After all, I recognize the original authors!
"What?!" The catgirl's voice rises in anger.
"Are you for real, boy?" A merchant man interjects, his tone matching the catgirl's frustration.
"Hey, hold on a second," a royal knight interjects, his tone filled with disapproval as he shoots me a condemning glare. "I know that guy! He's the poor soul who got beaten by Sir Julius, and then abandoned by his mistress." His words carry the weight of judgment. "Isn't your humiliation from two days ago enough? And now you want to endure another round of it?" he chastises me.
"Shit," I mutter, realizing I've messed up... again.
The people in line start murmuring, their agitation growing palpable. I step back, inadvertently bumping into the table behind me.
"Sir?"
Suddenly, a voice pierced through the tension like a soothing melody. It was undeniably beautiful, carrying an air of elegance that seemed to wrap around me.
"Good morning, sir," she greeted politely, her tone as sweet as the finest of melodies, instantly calming the atmosphere with its heavenly quality.
"Ehhh?" I exclaimed in surprise, my thoughts slipping out aloud.
Turning around, I beheld the source of the enchanting voice—a breathtaking young woman in noble attire with striking blue eyes and a beauty mark beneath the corner of her left eye. Her shoulder-length silver hair elegantly adorned with a braid on the left side.
So, this is Natsume Kafka.
"Here! Hand me your book," she instructed, extending her hand gracefully.
"Huh?" I stammered, my eyes widening in disbelief. "What book?" I questioned, feeling utterly bewildered by her otherworldly beauty.
Suddenly, her eyes sparkled like stars, her cheeks flushed with a delicate hue, and she cast a seductive glance at me. "My lord," she breathed, her voice a soft melody filled with longing, "It appears you have only grown more handsome."
The girl's sudden declaration catches me off guard, and I freeze, utterly bewildered. "What?" I manage to stammer out, my mind struggling to comprehend the situation.
But before I can fully grasp what's happening, the silver-haired beauty with captivating blue eyes stands up abruptly from her chair and envelops me in a tight embrace. "I missed you, my lord... I terribly missed you," she confesses, her voice filled with longing.
"WHOA!" I exclaimed, taken aback by her sudden display of affection. "Wait, hold on a sec!" I protested, gently trying to untangle myself from her grasp. "You must have mistaken me for someone else. I mean, I don't know you!"
But she didn't release her grip; it remained firm, and her next words only added to my confusion. "NO! There isn't anyone else. You are the one," she insisted, her voice unwavering.
I was at a loss for words, my mind racing in panic. "What the actual... " I muttered to myself, feeling a knot forming in my stomach.
The silver-haired girl named Natsume Kafka suddenly sobbed against my shoulder. Was it out of happiness or despair? I couldn't tell, but as her tears ran down my tracksuit, I awkwardly patted her back, offering what little comfort I could muster amid this surreal encounter.
Meanwhile, the people in line watched us with envy-filled looks, some murmuring amongst themselves. Their gazes only added to my confusion and discomfort.
Just when I thought the situation couldn't get any more bizarre, a familiar voice interrupted the scene.
"Subaru-kun, Rem's ba—" Rem's voice trailed off abruptly as she entered the square, her arms full of shopping bags. "Subaru-...kun?" Her eyes widened in shock as she took in the unexpected sight before her.
"Wait, Rem, please, this isn't what it looks like, I'll explain—" I began, but before I could finish my sentence, Rem's voice erupted in fury.
"GET YOUR FILTHY HANDS OFF REM'S SUBARU-KUN! YOU WENCH!" she screamed, her words cutting through the air like a sharp blade. With a swift motion, she hurled the shopping bags, her grip tightening around my arm as she tried to pull me away from Natsume.
"Yours? Don't make me laugh! My lord would never be attracted to a woman of such shoddy character. Inferior and unrefined," retorted Natsume, her voice dripping with smugness as she too attempted to assert her claim over me, simultaneously yanking me away in the opposite direction.
"UNREFINED? REM ISN'T UNREFINED! YOU'RE THE ONE STEALING-FLIRTING WITH REM'S HERO, WENCH! Grrrrrrrrrrrr," Rem fired back, her voice trembling with a mixture of anger and venom.
"Why would I steal what doesn't belong to you in the first place?" countered Natsume, her tone and composed despite the escalating tension.
"GET LOST, I SAID!" Rem insisted, her determination unwavering as she refused to back down.
"Ow ow ow! You both are going to rip me apart chill!" I cried out in agony, feeling like a rag doll caught in the middle of a fierce tug-of-war between two formidable women. "Ow! Damn, I think I popped a muscle!"
"Goodness, Rem, you two really went all out back there. I genuinely thought I was a goner or worse," I grumbled as she tended to my aches with her healing magic.
"Subaru-kun can be quite the flirt sometimes, which is why Rem needs to be assertive. Subaru-kun shouldn't toy with women's feelings, you know," Rem replied, continuing to apply her healing magic.
"Rem, I've told you before! She hugged me out of nowhere!" I retorted with a comically annoyed tone. "You promised you'd always believe me, right?" I added, pleadingly.
"Rem trusts her Subaru-kun, except in cases like this. Rem knows how flirty and charming Subaru-kun can be. Rem trusts Subaru-kun, but not the women who surround him," Rem reasoned.
"Huh? That doesn't make any sense!"
"Neither does Subaru-kun hugging another silver-haired girl in the middle of the merchant district, hmmp!" she pouted cutely.
"Hehehe, oh shit," I uttered nervously, scratching my head.
It was already late afternoon as Rem and I finished our shopping...Well, most of it was thrown to waste as Rem tossed it in a fit of jealous rage. Hence, empty-handed, we continued our walk back to the Karsten Manor.
"Ah, Subaru-kun, I almost forgot to mention," Rem began, her voice carrying a hint of concern. "I need to make a quick stop at the post office before dinner to deliver a set of missives to Lord Roswaal, so I'll be away for a bit. Promise me you'll behave yourself, alright? And please, try not to upset Lady Crusch or Felix. Oh, and don't overdo your training with Wilhelm-san either."
I chuckled at her motherly admonishments. "You worry too much, Rem-rin. Don't worry, I'll be good, I promise," I assured her with a reassuring smile, giving her a thumbs up. "You can count on me to be as discreet as a background character," I added playfully, a glint of mischief dancing in my eyes.
"Oh, you mean as discreet as a background character when Subaru-kun sneaked inside the royal palace and caused a ruckus at the selection?" Rem added, her tone tinged with a hint of playful teasing.
"Oh, that..." I scratched my head, feeling a wave of sadness and despair wash over me once more. "Well, I suppose there's no way around it," I conceded, resignation evident in my voice.
"It's alright, Subaru-kun," she said softly, her fingers tenderly brushing my hair with warmth. "Rem Understands."
"Thank you, Rem," I replied with gratitude, feeling a soothing comfort enveloping me.
(Hours Pass)
"Damn... Where's Rem? She said she'd be back before dinner...And it's already dinner time!" I grumbled to myself, feeling the weight of fatigue settling in as I lounged in the garden of Karsten Manor.
The night sky stretched above me, painted with the soft glow of the moon, casting an enchanting ambiance over the surroundings.
Three hours slipped by since Rem's left. Her punctuality was as reliable as a brand-new clock, so her tardiness sparked a flicker of concern within me. Could she be caught up at the post office? I mused, trying to rationalize her delay.
"Yeah, that's probably it," I muttered, offering a tired nod to my speculation.
Standing up from the garden bench, I stretched my limbs, feeling the stiffness melt away. "Old man Wil should have trained me this afternoon. Where is he, by the way?" I pondered aloud, stepping through the grand entrance of the manor.
The corridors lay quiet and deserted, devoid of the usual hustle and bustle.
"Hmm, probably busy with an errand from Crusch," I reasoned, the echo of my footsteps accompanying my thoughts. Despite my hunger, I felt unease crept as I ventured deeper into the dimly lit manor. "Huh?"
Suddenly, a shiver ran down my spine, and a chill gripped the air as realization dawned upon me. Karsten Manor, usually alive with activity, now stood eerily silent in the darkness.
No flicker of candlelight or glimmer of mana crystals illuminated the halls.
The absence of the usual bustling maids and vigilant guards only intensified the feeling of foreboding that settled in my chest.
"Crusch? Felix?" I called out as I walked, my voice echoing through the empty halls, thick with anticipation. My senses heightened in this odd scenario. "Are you there?! Wilhelm!? Anybody!"
But my calls were met with only the eerie silence of the deserted manor, intensifying the knot of unease in my stomach. Panic began to rise within me as I quickened my pace, desperately searching for any sign of life amidst the shadows.
"Rem! Where are y'all!" I screamed, my voice echoing once more through the vacant corridors of the manor. "What?" then I heard it.
The sound of the piano, drifting from the large living room of Karsten Manor. A piece, a melody, being played—a sonata very well known to me.
"The Moonlight Sonata," I whispered with bated breath.
I stood frozen in the dimly lit corridor, mind racing with possibilities. Who could possibly be playing the Moonlight Sonata in this world? The thought of someone having access to the sheet music, let alone the skill to perform such a piece, seemed improbable.
My suspicions ruled out Crusch, Felix, Wilhelm, and Rem as potential culprits. None of them seemed likely candidates to be playing the piano at this hour, especially given their lack of musical aptitude.
"So who?"
And so, I began my walk towards the manor's living room. Each step felt like a journey, sweat trickling down my face as anticipation and terror engulfed me. Was I about to face another situation? Would I be forced to rely on Return by Death again? The uncertainty gnawed at me.
With each step, I counted down, ten more to go, then five, until finally, I stood on the threshold.
My heart hammered against my ribs as I crossed into the illuminated living room.
"What the actual FUCK!"
The exclamation burst from my lips, propelled by the surreal sight that greeted me—a whirlwind of white feathers danced through the air, casting an otherworldly glow across the room.
And there, at the grand piano, sat a cloaked figure, fingers gliding effortlessly over the keys, conjuring the haunting melody of the Moonlight Sonata.
My instinct screamed for me to flee, to retreat from this ethereal scenery, but curiosity held me fast. With shaky legs, I approached the piano, each step heavy with trepidation.
"We are Shadow Garden. We dwell in the shadows. We hunt the shadows," a chorus of voices, soft yet commanding, filled the room, sending shivers coursing down my spine.
My eyes widened in disbelief as I watched the room fill with more cloaked figures, each kneeling before me. Were there dozens? Hundreds? The sheer number overwhelmed my senses. Questions swirled in my mind like a tempest, but before I could voice them, the figure at the piano ceased its playing.
"Lord Shadow," her voice echoed, melodious and haunting.
"Lord... Shadow?" I echoed back, still bewildered. "I'm sorry but This makes sense— wait!" But my protest was cut short
"BOSS!" Without warning, a black-haired demihuman woman in a sleek black bodysuit flew towards me, tackling me to the ground. "BOSS! BOSS! Delta misses you! Delta misses you!"
"Hel—" I attempted to reply, but the pressure was overwhelming, squeezing consciousness from me.
"DELTA! Easy now," another voice interjected.
"Ahhhhh! My apologies, Alpha-sama," said the wolf woman as she loosened her hold on me. Unfortunately, I was already drifting off into dreamland.
The last thing I remember before everything faded to black was the sight of ten extremely beautiful female faces surrounding me: five elves, two therianthrope demihumans, and three humans. Wait, is that the curly-haired girl from the market and Miss Natsume?
"Emil-Natsume... Maji...Tenshi" were the final words I managed to utter before succumbing to darkness.