Chapter 41: Good-Byes for Now
Waking up, Kaoi's vision met with the blurry sight of a roof. The demon slayer can feel that he is on a comfy bed.
Kaoi: Ugh….
Beatrice: Good to see you're awake, I suppose.
Turning his head to the left, Kaoi sees the pouting great spirit.
Kaoi: Hey Beatr- OW!
The demon slayer was interrupted by the tiny fist pounding on his chest.
Beatrice: How dare you! Hmph! Make a promise to Betty Hmph! And then almost get yourself killed!
Kaoi tries to defend himself against the great spirit's barrage.
Kaoi: Hey! Ow! I'm sorry! I'm sorry about that!
Beatrice: You better!
[door creaking]
Looking at who entered the room, Kaoi and Beatrice saw that Frederica had entered.
Frederica: Oh! Sir Kaoi, you've awoken!
Kaoi: Good to see you're okay, Frederica. Where is everyone?
The demon slayer tries to get up from the bed but stumbles a bit. Looking down he sees that he's been removed from his uniform and he is now in sleep wear.
Frederica: Be Careful!
Beatrice: While Roswaal did heal all of your injuries. You're still suffering from mana exhaustion, I suppose.
Frederica: That is right. Look, everyone is fine. They are just waiting in the cathedral deciding on what to do with Roswaal.
Kaoi: Then… I want to be there…
Beatrice: You'll need someone to help you over there and unfortunately you're too heavy for Betty.
The swordsman then turns his head to the maid.
Kaoi: Please, Frederica…
Frederica: Hmmmmm…..fine.
Kaoi: Oh and can someone please hand over my glasses?
Frederica: Oh! Well you see… Sir Kaoi…
Beatrice: I can explain, I suppose
Flashback
While Kaoi's body was carried off. Emilia was looking for his glasses that fell into the snow when-
[crunch!]
Flashback End
Kaoi looks at the broken glasses that were handed to him after Beatrice's explanation.
Kaoi: We'll worry about my vision later. Let's go see Roswaal.
The Cathedral
While Kaoi's arrival was unexpected, it was welcomed. After being sat down in one of the empty chairs, Kaoi noticed tensions were still high as most of everyone present was still hostile towards Roswaal. In order to get everyone to start thinking with a clear head, Kaoi proposed a temporary solution.
[bam!]
Roswaal: Umph!
The mage was sent flying after being punched by Garfiel.
Garfiel: Phew… Man, I really sent the bastard flyin', huh?
[bam!]
Petra whip's his face with a towel.
Otto: My turn.
[bam!]
The last one to participate was Rem.
Roswaal: Rem…
The oni maid stares at her master for a moment.
[bam!]
Before delivering a punch more devastating than Garfiel's and leaving Roswaal with a bloody nose along with his two bruised cheeks.
Kaoi: I believe that was the last of you.
The only ones who did not partake in the physical punishment of Roswaal were Emilia, Ryuzu, Kaoi who was still recovering and Ram who was holding a clean towel to Roswaal's nose.
Kaoi: Now we can talk about what to actually do about you.
Garfiel: You're seriously gonna have this bastard be on our side? Just don't sit right with me. If not for you and these guys, it would've been a disaster for the village and the mansion! And he's the one who planned all that!
Kaoi: Now as unfortunate as it is, we can't turn him over to the knights since he is Emi's sponsor.
Garfiel: Are ya tellin' me to forgive the guy who tried to kill family of mine?!
Kaoi: Garf…
Rem: I understand how you feel, Garf.
Garfiel: Huh?
Rem: Roswaal has caused a lot of grief for us and nearly succeeded in sacrificing us for his selfish wish. However, he is still vital for Miss Emilia's campaign and for her I will swallow my rage.
The half-elf's heart was touched by the Oni's words.
Emilia: Rem…
Ram:...Sister.
Petra: huh….
It seems like she wasn't the only one as the ribbon maid and The pink oni was also moved by her words. When the eyes of the sisters met however, Rem turned away.
Petra simply buries herself into Frederica with a hug.
Frederica: I am willing to forgive the master.
Shocked by his sister's statement. Garfiel says
Garfiel: What the hell you sayin'?! This bastard put you and the mansion in—
Frederica: Yet, even so, I am alive, thanks to you, Garf.
Garfiel: That's just hindsight!
Frederica: I have been in the master's care for more than ten years. I accepted his aid in achieving my own goals, and I am here today because I learned so much from him.
Kaoi: While well and good for you, Frederica. The problem is not whether or not he deserves forgiveness but how we are going to keep him in check. To make sure he does not pull a stunt like this ever again.
Roswaal: You needn't worry about that.
Everyone: Huh?
Garfiel: …How can ya be so sure? Ya think we'd believe a promise outta your mouth even a little?
Roswaal: Unfortunately, that would be impossible. So I shall prove it in a form visible to the eye.
The mage stood up and removed his jacket and shirt to reveal the pale glowing symbols carved into his chest. Shocking everyone present.
Beatrice: Is this a vow sealed with a curse, I wonder?
Kaoi: A curse?
Beatrice: An agreement can take the form of a contract, an oath, or a covenant. A covenant applies to all blood relatives, and an oath binds an individual.
Roswaal: I have lost the battle. In accordance with my vow, I can inflict no harm upon you. Should I renounce this vow, my soul shall be tainted and my flesh enveloped and burned away by purifying fire. And my soul shall fall into the void, never to return to Odo Ragna again. That is what I have sworn.
Kaoi :.. I assume that this is the result of our wager because I find it hard to believe that you carved those symbols into your chest.
Roswaal: That is correct.
Kaoi: Very well, does this put you at ease, Garfiel?
Garfiel: Grrrr…
Bilma: Young Gar.
Turning his head to his grandmother figure, Garfiel faces Ryuzu.
Bilma: Shima chose her own fate. No matter what Young Ros did, it would have always been one of us who needed to serve as the key to lift the barrier. Shima said she has not been lonely these past ten years. She said that was because of…
The tiger emotions softened up when Bilma seemed like she was about to shed tears.
Garfiel: …I know that already. Don't make a sad face like that, Granny.
After taking a deep breath and with surprising calm.
Garfiel: Swear it, Roswaal. I don't care what ya swore before. I want ya to swear it again here and now. Y'all never pull this crap on us again, swear it.
Roswaal simply nods and says
Roswaal: I shall never sacrifice anyone present in this place, nor use you as pawns to achieve some greater goal. I swear this upon the soul of my cherished teacher.
Kaoi: Now then, is there anything else someone has to say?
The half-elf raises her hand.
Kaoi: Emi?
Emilia: I would just like to say that all of you are being really strange. Roswaal still hasn't
done the most important thing, has he? We can't end this conversation until he does.
Kaoi: And what would that be?
Emilia: When you've done something wrong, you have to say you're sorry.
Everyone is shocked by Emilia's seemingly naive statement.
Kaoi: [chuckles]... that is because usually when a person has committed heinous acts as Roswaal did. They aren't usually given or take the opportunity to say sorry.
Emilia: Well I am giving him the opportunity. You've all been telling him to do this and say that to prove he regrets it and Roswaal, you said you'd swear on your teacher's soul, but isn't there something you should say before that? Roswaal, did you say that to them, even once? I didn't hear it,
Kaoi: … Very well, apologize, Roswaal. If you're gonna work with us from now on, then that's the right thing to do as a human being.
Shocked that Kaoi was following Emilia's example. Roswaal drew his breath in and says
Roswaal: Yes, that will do.
After Roswaal apologizes, Emilia flashed a smile.
Meili's Room
After being rescued by the beast maid from the burning mansion. Meili had been spending her time in an empty room for the time being. Wondering what she is gonna do next before-
[door creak]
The door opens to reveal Frederica.
Frederica: Greetings, Honored Guest. How are you?
The little assassin made no reply.
Frederica: If you wish not to speak then that is fine. I am simply here to inform you of your sentence.
Meili: Huh?
Frederica closes her eyes as she remembers the conversation prior.
Turning her over to the knights was out of the question since she can reveal that Roswaal hired her and Elsa.
So the only two possible options were-
Frederica: -Either execute you ourselves or take you as our prisoner. While Miss Emilia was very adamant in imprisonment. Sir Kaoi brought up a very true fact of the matter.
Flashback
Kaoi: We are responsible for the death of Elsa.
Garfiel: Ah! Who cares about that psycho bitc- OW!
The Tiger cries out as he was hit over the head by his sister.
Kaoi: Meili certainly does. To her, it doesn't matter that she was a killer. We've taken away someone that she deeply cares for and who deeply cared for her.
Otto: I get what you're saying Kaoi but still…
Kaoi: Revenge is a powerful motivator to keep oneself "living".
Flashback End
Meili: So I guess this is it for me?
Frederica: It might have been had it not been for one person speaking on your behalf.
Meili: Someone did? Who?
Flashback
Petra: How about we offer her something in exchange for her consent to be our prisoner?
Everyone stares at the ribbon maid who made that suggestion.
Kaoi: I'm surprised to hear that from you of all people, Petra?
Petra: Don't get me wrong. I still haven't forgiven her for trying to kill me and my friends last time and this time… but it also wouldn't sit right with me if we killed her…
Flashback End
Meili: She said that…
Frederica: You should feel much grateful to have someone like her. So we are prepared to make you a reasonable offer and in exchange you will become our willing prisoner.
The little assassin stayed silent for a moment. Still taking the fact that Petra, even after all she did, didn't want her dead.
Meili:... can I…
Frederica: Yes?
Meili: Can I look for Elsa?
Frederica: What do you mean?
Meili: Elsa has a very powerful healing curse so I'm not totally convinced she's gone. If you let me search whatever is left of the mansion for any proof that she's still alive then I'll let myself be taken in.
Frederica: I believe… that can be arranged.
Small Timeskip
?: You're as selfish as ever, uncle!
The little indigo haired girl crosses her arms
After Frederica came back, the group was informed by the arrival of carriages. Out came this little girl and her butler. The former immediately ran towards the mage to give him a tongue lashing.
However, the most surprising thing about this little girl is.
Kaoi: She's Roswaal's niece? He has a sibling?!
Frederica: Actually her mother and Lord Roswaal simply share a common ancestor. Making them distant relatives.
Kaoi: I see.
Annerose: I am known as Annerose Miload. I was born into a branch of my uncle's Mathers family… I suppose you could say he is a relative of sorts. I am pleased to meet you.
The little girl was so upstanding. It was hard to believe that she was in any way related to Roswaal besides their hair color.
Kaoi: Although showing up like this with immaculate timing was…
?: We who had made preparations in advance under the master's orders. Frightful.
Both Kaoi and Frederica jumped at the new voice who barged in their conversation. Turing over, they see a blue haired man as he bows slightly.
?: That was rude of me.
The beast maid then growls out the man's name.
Frederica: Clind…
Kaoi: You know him?
Clind: Indeed, she does. I am Clind, a steward working under Annerose-sama. I was previously in the master's… In Roswaal L. Mathers' employ, as a steward, obviously. I have looked after Frederica when she first started her employment as a maid. Audacious.
Frederica: I see you still haven't kept those bad habits of yours in check.
Clind: Why I have no idea of what you mean. My dear former junior. Capable.
Kaoi: Do I even want to know?
Frederica: Maybe if perhaps, he explains the purpose of their arrival.
Clind: Of course, I will but before that however… Sir Kaoi.
Kaoi: Yes?
Clind: I noticed that you seemed to be squinting a lot and then I saw the broken pair of glasses in your hand. Tell me! How did they get broken? Awful.
Looking over Kaoi's eye met Emilia who quickly turns away.
Kaoi: They broke in a fight that I was in.
Clind: Well that is no good. We'll have to get you new ones when we arrive at the Manor.
Kaoi: Manor?
Clind: Yes. Master had contacted us beforehand. We already know the details so we've come to help with bringing the villagers home and the relocation of the Manor residents after its destruction. Regretful.
Kaoi: I see well that's very generous.
Annerose: Hey, you there! Are you the Kaoi Emily spoke of?
Startled a bit. Kaoi looks at the young girl pointing her finger at him.
Kaoi: Um… that would be my name, yes.
Annerose: So you were the one to stand up for Emily at the Royal Selection.
Kaoi: Yes. That is true.
Annerose: Well thank you for that! Emily is a nice girl and all but she has trouble standing up for herself. If you find yourself standing up for her again. I'll be your ally!
Emilia: Annie!
Kaoi: [chuckles]... I'll keep that in mind then…
A Few Days Later.
[knocking]
Kaoi: Emi? Can I come in?
Emilia: Kaoi! Wait a moment.
After hearing some noises from the other side of the door, Emilia opens it and lets Kaoi inside.
Kaoi: I see you settled into your new room quite nicely.
Emilia: Nevermind the room! What about you. How are you doing with the new glasses?
Kaoi: Oh! These things?
The demon slayer asks as he taps on the new rectangular frames.
Kaoi: They've been fantastic. Think this is the most clear vision I had.
Emilia: That's good. I was so worried after I broke your old ones. Again, I'm very sorry.
The half-elf bows while Kaoi chuckles.
Kaoi: It's fine. It is the thought that counts. So about the main reason you asked me to come here.
Emilia: Right!
Sitting down at the side of her bed. The half-elf fidgets.
Emilia: Kaoi, you are possibly one of the best people that has entered my life. You helped me when my insignia was stolen. You've become my friend. You stood by me when most others scorn me for my appearance. So that is why… I want to make you this offer… Kaoi, would you please become my knight!
Emilia puts on the bravest face she could muster. Kaoi feels guilty at what he is about to do.
Kaoi: Emi… while I'm touched that you would offer me such an honor. I'm afraid I have to refuse the position.
Emilia: I see…
Kaoi: Don't be sad!
Surprisingly, Emilia did not burst into tears in the face of rejection.
Emilia: Don't worry. I'm not sad. Not sad at all.
Kaoi: You're not?
Emilia: No. In fact I expected you to say no. I knew you couldn't accept with the responsibilities you have back home. I just couldn't forgive myself if I didn't at least ask.
Kaoi: Emi… you really grew so much and thank you for being so understanding.
Emilia: Thank You. Kaoi. Speaking of those responsibilities. What do you plan to do now?
Kaoi knew Emilia was talking about Umbriel and the now confirmed existence of Demons along with a progenitor that goes by the name of Ouranos.
Standing in front of a window, Kaoi speaks.
Kaoi: As much as I want to go back home now. I cannot in good confidence leave this world with Demons running around. A demon slayer is a hunter not a protector. So that is why Emilia… I'm going to be leaving.
Emilia: Leaving?
Kaoi: Leaving the Mansion to go out and search for Demons, Witch Cultists, Mabeasts or whatever else hunts the innocent at night.
Turning over to Emilia.
Kaoi: We'll come back when I can to check up on all of you from time to time.
Emilia: We'll?
Kaoi: Obviously Teruo is coming with, Raiju is going to be the one pulling the carriage and Beatrice is along for the ride.
Emilia: Really! Miss Beatrice?!
Kaoi: Yeah. After staying in that Library for so long. She is eager to go out and see the world she has missed out for so long.
Emilia: That's great, I'm excited for her and Kaoi…
Kaoi: What is it?
Emilia: Don't worry about us. We'll still be strong even when you're not here. You've taught us that.
Kaoi: Well considering that multiple members in our party can tear down trees with their bare hands including you.. I can believe that.
Looking out the window for a moment, Kaoi spots a certain someone as he trains.
Kaoi: Hey Emi!
Emilia: Yes?
Kaoi: If you still need a knight, then I can highly recommend the position to someone else.
Emilia: Who?
After genesturing her to come over. Kaoi points to the person outside.
Emilia: Are you sure?
Kaoi: He did defeat the Bowel Hunter. A feat that few can claim. He does seem popular with the villagers from the Sanctuary. Out of all of us, he fits the role of stalwart protector the best.
Emilia: I see what you mean but would he accept?
The demon slayer and half-elf turn to each other.
Kaoi: Only one way to know.
Knighting Ceremony
The extravagant hall is filled with the murmuring of the people inside. While Emilia, dressed in ornate clothing, raises a sword to appoint her new knight, Kaoi in his butler uniform and Roswaal talk in the back.
Roswaal had just finished talking to Kaoi about not giving up his wish to see Echidna. While Kaoi is still trying to wrap his head around the idea that there might be two Echidnas.
Roswaal: I'm still surprised you didn't want the position for yourself.
Kaoi: It needed to be filled but I'm just not the person to fill that role.
Roswaal: But him?
Looking at the person in front of Emilia is the kneeling Garfiel, dressed in a white suit similar to a knight's uniform and a cape with a tiger pattern .It was almost hilarious watching him as he is obviously uncomfortable in his attire.
Roswaal: It's a wonder that he agreed.
Kaoi: While he initially refused and thinks that I should take the position. After explaining everything, he agreed. With a caveat.
Roswaal: And that being…?
Kaoi: I would officially take him in as my pupil.
Garfiel: Who better to learn to get stronger than da strongest guy I know!
Kaoi: A guy who can tear giant beasts in halves wants to learn from me on getting stronger. Would you believe that?
Roswaal: Strength comes in all shapes and forms. You of all people should know that.
Looking across the room, Kaoi's eye meet Emilia as she was about the finish the ceremony. The demon slayer gives her a smile of approval which brings the half-elf almost to tears of joy.
Kaoi: Yeah… I do…
After the ceremony finished. The three maids of the Roswaal manor worked alongside the maids of the Miload mansion to bring out the food for all of the guests.
Even Teruo gets his fill by stealing off the plates of others.
Everyone paid no mind to manners and simply enjoyed the buffet-style feast.
Frederica: I can't believe it! My brother is Miss Emilia's Knight!
The beast maid cries in joy as she pulls her brother in for a hug.
Garfiel: Sis! Stop that!
Otto: Well you should be proud. At your age, you're one of the youngest men to be given knighthood. This is a momentous feat.
Beatrice: The wimpy merchant is right, I suppose.
Otto: You could have just called me "the merchant"! You didn't need to add wimpy!
Beatrice: You are right. I didn't.
Otto: I just can't win….
The green merchant comedically cries while everyone chuckles at his misfortune.
Looking at the balcony, Kaoi spots Ram alone and decides that it is time for them to talk.
Kaoi: Excuse me.
Walking outside to the balcony, the demon slayer walks next to the oni maid.
Kaoi: Had enough social activity?
Ram: Ram is delightful at conversations. Don't you forget that Bakaoi.
Kaoi: Yeah, I won't.
Looking back, Kaoi sees the blue maid as she enjoys some of the food.
Kaoi: She is still not talking to you. Huh?
Ram: … I do not blame her. After all that Ram had been complicit in…
Kaoi: …
Ram: I never paid any thought when she used to call me sister all the time. Now that she only calls me by my name. I miss that now.
Kaoi: …
Ram: I assumed she told you. About what transpired between me and Roswaal?
Kaoi: Yeah, she told me everything. So you are in love with him?
The demon slayer's heart hurt a little when he said that.
Ram: Yes… that is true…
Kaoi: Even when he doesn't remember you.
Ram: Yes, even so because he is a great man who was simply led astray by his delusions… Thank you Kaoi, for sparing his life…
Kaoi: …Ram… I want to know… how much… how much of what was between us was genuine or you just following Roswaal's orders.
Ram: … From the very start, Master Roswaal in order to fulfill the prophecies from the cursed book had Rem and I look after you while you were working your first week. For it said that one of the oni sisters would get close to the stranger who arrived at the mansion. At least… that is what he told me…
Kaoi: And after Rem tried to kill me…
Ram: It became clear that I would become the oni sister to get close to the stranger. Who would fight alongside him as he saved children from mabeasts, partake in the subjugation of the White Whale, and-
The oni maid stopped herself before she could finish.
Kaoi: and?
Ram: Let's just say I never thought I would have genuine feelings for someone besides Lord Roswaal.
Kaoi: [gasps] …Ram… I… I don't think I know what love is.
Now it was the Oni's turn to stay silent.
Kaoi: I'd see very few examples of romance in the corps. At least ones that have a good ending. The very best example I can think of is Tengen-sama and his three wives. Not the most orthodox example.
Ram: …
Kaoi: So I grew up with the idea of never finding that special someone and that maybe it would be for the best that I didn't. Whenever I would think about my end, I don't find myself surrounded by loved ones. Then I met you and then I thought maybe… just maybe… I could have that as my end.
Ram:...
Kaoi: I love you, Ram. But I don't think I could trust you with my feelings in that way again.
Ram: Yet you trusted me enough to betray my master and to partake in your conspiracy.
Kaoi: I trusted that you would not let your sister be a causality in his plans.
Ram: My sister who now despises me.
Kaoi: Don't give up hope. Sooner or later she'll realize…
Ram: Realize what?
Kaoi: That the love you hold for her is greater than the love you will ever hold for any man. The love that drove you to protect her from the day you were born.
With that Kaoi leaves to return to the party but not before giving these words to Ram.
Kaoi: Thank you, Ram. For making me believe I could have a future those would dream of.
Kaoi returned to the party melancholic. While he still smiled and partook in conversation, no one noticed the small tinge of sadness that he hides.
Well almost no one.
Frederica: Would you like to dance?
Kaoi: Huh?
The demon slayer was snapped out of his stupor. The band had started playing slow music so a lot of the guests were slow dancing. Kaoi was just hanging around the walls before Frederica approached him and offered her hand.
Frederica: You've been standing here for quite some time. Would you… care to join me for a dance?
The beast maid lets out a mischievous smile.
Frederica: and keep in mind that denying a maiden's request is rude.
Stunned for a moment, Kaoi lets out a chuckle before taking her hand.
Kaoi: If you insist.
Letting himself be led to the dance floor, the soft melody wrapping around them like a warm embrace. Her steps were fluid and assured, while his were measured and precise, creating a rhythm uniquely theirs.
Frederica: You don't need to keep your back so rigid.
Kaoi: Well you seem to be enjoying this,
Frederica's smile widened, a faint blush coloring her cheeks.
Frederica: Maybe I am. But only because you've made it memorable.
As the dance continued, Kaoi found himself matching her pace more naturally, his confidence growing.
Meanwhile the pink maid watches the pair. She fails to notice someone handing her a drink.
Rem: Here… so you don't look like a creep watching them.
Shocked a bit that her twin is now speaking to her of her own volition, Ram takes the drink from her hand.
Ram: Thank you Sister.
Rem: Think nothing of it…
The sisters said nothing else for a while as they watched the demon slayer getting more use to slow dancing thanks to the senior maid's guidance.
Rem: The two of them look quite nice together. Don't you think, Ram?
Ram: Indeed they do, Sister.
Perhaps the day will come when Rem would call Ram, Sister again but that day is not today.
When the music drew to a close, Frederica tilted her head slightly, her golden hair shimmering in the candle light, and looked at him with an affectionate gaze.
Kaoi: Thank you Frederica, for this lovely dance. I surprisingly needed it.
Frederica: [giggles] It was my pleasure, Sir Kaoi.
Kaoi: Please, call me Kaoi.
Frederica: Of course.
A few hours later, the night drew to a close.
Days Later
Petra: I can't believe today has arrived…
The small maid then yawns as she got up early with the rest of the staff to get started with breakfast.
Rem: Indeed it has, Petra.
Ram: I only pity Miss Beatrice for she has to be alone with Bakaoi.
Rem: Ram! That's too harsh.
Ram: I am merely stating my view on the matter.
Rem: Well say less.
Frederica: That's enough, you two!
Why this day was of particular importance is that it is the day of Kaoi's and Beatrice's departure from the mansion.
Petra: I'm just a little worried.
Rem: For what?
Ram: Think about it Sister. Kaoi is still very unfamiliar with our world and Miss Beatrice has spent over four centuries in the Forbidden Library. The two put together don't exactly make an experienced traveller.
Petra: Right…
The ribbon maid said sadly.
Rem: Well I admit I feel a little more comfortable if someone experienced was going with them. We'll just have to believe in them. Right, Petra?
The ribbon maid smiled more joyfully as she replied to her senior.
Petra: Right!
Rem: Besides, today he'll be wearing our gift.
Petra: That's right. Remember when we gave it to him yesterday?
Rem: Of course.
Flashback
The demonslayer is stunned when he looks at the uniform presented to him by Rem and Petra.
Rem: While your uniform was in disrepair. Petra and I felt that simply repairing your uniform wasn't enough to repay you so we decided to make you a new attire more suited for your travel.
Petra: Do you like it?
Lifting the jacket, Kaoi can see that they made a fusion of his demon slayer uniform and the knight uniform of Lugunica. A black jacket with the symbol of the Odo Island Dragon on the back and large white cuffs at the end of the long sleeves. The pants were a recreation of the baggy black ones from his demon slayer uniform. They also gave him black gloves and brown boots.
Kaoi: I don't know what to say… This… this is simply amazing. I'm touched that you would do this for me.
Rem: It was the least we could do after the many things you did.
Petra: Yep! Oh! There is one more thing.
Rem: Right. Petra came up with the idea for this herself.
The small maid left for a moment before returning with something that made Kaoi smile.
Flashback End
The two maids reminisce of yesterday's events much to the annoyance of Ram. While still grateful to Kaoi, is kinda annoyed that he got his twin sister and junior made acting like love-sick puppies.
Meanwhile Frederica contemplates on the topic earlier.
Frederica: An experienced traveler…
Outside the Miload Mansion in the Afternoon
Kaoi steps out fully adorned with his new uniform. Complete with a cape similar to what the knights wear on top of their uniform. However, this one is pink with white trimmings, very similar to the dress of a certain Great Spirit.
https/tokujensen/art/1126695997
Beatrice: You look very good with that cape. Now everyone will know that you're Betty's student, I suppose.
Kaoi: Well I'm glad that you like it.
Walking closer to the carriage where Raiju is attached to, they noticed someone else is there and is currently adding more luggage to the carriage.
Kaoi: Frederica?
Beatrice: What are you doing, I suppose?
As shocking as it was to see the yellow-haired maid. It was more shocking to see her out of her maid uniform. Now she wears a green jacket with gold accents over a white long sleeve shirt, black pants and brown boots of her own. Instead of wearing her white cloth headband, she now sports a sleek black one.
https/tokujensen/art/Frederica-Travel-Outfit-1127072033
Frederica: Kaoi. Miss Beatrice. Nothing nefarious I assure you. I am simply adding in my luggage for our travels.
Kaoi: "Our" travels?
Frederica: Yes. It has come to my attention that you are in need of a guide to help you navigate the roads of Lugunica. As one who had done many travellings, I took it upon myself to join you.
Beatrice: Nonsense! Betty is very knowledgeable about the kingdom and its geography.
Frederica: With all do respect, Miss Beatrice. You barely left Lord Roswaal's domain for the last four hundred years and much has changed since then.
The Great Spirit lets out a pout from being called out on her shut-in lifestyle.
Kaoi: But what about Petra? And don't you want to catch up with Garfiel?
Frederica: Petra is in safe hands with Rem and the servants of Miload Manor.
She will be especially trusting the oni sisters to make sure Petra stays far far FAR away from Clind.
Frederica: As for my brother-
Garfiel: It ain't no sweat of my back 'f Sis wants to travel with ya!
Turning around in surprise, Kaoi sees Garfiel standing behind him at the mansion doors. Alongside Emilia, Rem, Ram, Petra and Otto.
Garfiel: I just ask that ya take care of her, Boss!
While the small maid was sad that the person she sees as a big sister figure is leaving. She is also excited. Turning away so they don't see her blushing furiously.
Petra: Big Sis and Mister Kaoi will be traveling together where… where… their love will blossom!
After witnessing the dance between them at the knighting Ceremony, Petra has got in her head that Frederica and Kaoi are meant for each other.
While Kaoi is trying to figure out what got the small maid all excited.
Frederica: Consider this as repayment for helping in freeing the Sanctuary, saving Petra and I, and reuniting me with my brother.
Seeing that the senior maid was adamant in this decision, the demon slayer relents.
Kaoi: Fine. We're welcome to have you.
Kaoi reaches out his hand, to which Frederica takes and they both shake on their new party together. Frederica lets out her cute toothy smile.
[crack!]
With a single crack of the reins, Raiju proceeded to pull the carriage with Kaoi and Frederica in the driver's seat and Beatrice sitting in the compartment.
Play Shirogane by Lisa
Like that, the three are off to face many new adventures and adversaries. Teruo flying up high as the carriage moves.
Everyone back at the mansion, shouts their good-byes as they see their friends off.
Petra: You take care of each other!
Rem: Safe travels!
Otto: Remember to stay on the main road!
Ram: Don't give them any grief, Bakaoi!
Garfiel: Make sure to take down anyone who gets in yer way!
Emilia: KAOI!
Looking back at the shouting half-elf, Kaoi watches as she yells out
Emilia: I'll be sure to do a lot of maturing so that the next time we meet! We can be admirable together!
In a normal volume, Kaoi said…
Kaoi: Then I'll be looking forward to that.
Tomorrow
With Garfiel
In the courtyard, where Garfiel is supposed to be conducting his training. He is surprised by the unexpected appearance of a Pink Maid.
Garfiel: What are ya doing here, Pink Rem?
Rem: It's Ram and if you must know. I am here for swordsman lessons.
True to her word, she came prepared in her usual maid attire but with the addition of ornate black gloves and a sword strapped to her waist.
Clind: This is the truth. While you are here to train yourself to be more suited to fulfill the role as Miss Emilia's knight. Ram here has taken upon herself to be under my tutelage once again. Vigilant.
The steward spoke behind them, startling both the newly appointed knight and sword maid.
Garfiel: Where da hell did ya come from!
Ram: You better get used to this, Garf.
The steward simply waved off their questions.
Clind: Now! Now. Don't be like that. It is an honor to train you and Ram again. So hostile.
Garfiel: You wanna seriously have to take lessons from dis guy?
Ram: As unfortunate as it is. Clind is a skilled swordsman and mentor. You do your best to learn from him while Kaoi is away, Garf.
Clind: Indeed. Now if the two of you are done talking.
The steward then pulls out a sword of his own.
Clind: Then I best believe it's time for your lessons to begin. Prepared.
With Petra
The little girl carries a tray of food as she travels to the Miload Mansion "prison" as it were.
Once she reaches her destination, she opens the door and let's herself in.
Meili: Petra!
The little girl shouts as she sees her "friend".
Petra: I'm just here to drop off your meal.
Meili: Oh come on… I'm so bored… Don't you want to stay and play together?
Petra: I'm sorry but I have duties to attend.
The ribbon girl then sticks her tongue out and the little assassin did the same.
With Otto
Otto: Why do I have to do so much paperwork?
Roswaal: You are the minister of internal affairs are you not? Then it is only natural that responsibilities such as this would fall onto you~.
Otto: Why does it feel like I'm the one getting punished around here?
The hapless merchant lets out a stream of tears as he continues to work on the papers on his desk while Roswaal takes humor from his misfortune.
With Emilia
The dragon candidate works hard, studying the government of Lugunica and its inner working so that she can figure out what she can do to create a nation where all is equal.
[knocking]
Emilia: Come in.
Rem enters the room carrying a tray with a tea set.
Emilia: Hey Rem. Just put it on the table.
The blue maid sets the tea tray down. She looks over her lady studying.
Rem: I see that you're studying diligently.
Emilia: Yep. I didn't do so well back at the capitol but next time… Next time I'll be prepared!
Rem: I'm sure Kaoi will be proud of how diligent you are.
Emilia: Are you sure?
Rem: I'm positive.
Emilia: and Rem.
Rem: Yes Miss Emilia?
Emilia: Thank you for being there when I was at my lowest.
The blue maid lets out a smile.
Rem: Of course. Anything for you. My lady.
[End Song]
Night
Running through the woods, the creature of the night tries to escape as what he thought would be his latest prey turns into his predator.
When he thought he was safe, he tried to tend to his missing arm.
Demon: Who the hell was that guy?
Kaoi: I'll tell you, Demon.
Demon: [gasps]
Walking from behind the trees, the demon slayer emerges from the trees. Wielding his purple nichirin blade.
Kaoi: My name is Kaoi, the Yin Flame Hashira, and I am your end.
He gets into a stance as he purple flames engulfs his blade.
Kaoi: Yin Flame Breathing!
The Flame Tsuguko in Another World Saga End
Author's Note
Here we are at the final chapter. I hope you all enjoyed the journey. Soon I'll post an announcement chapter for what is next.
Reminder that my art can be found on deviantart under TokuJensen.
Like always, feel free to leave your thoughts in the comments or reviews. Feedback for these chapters are appreciated and I love to hear what you guys think. Have a good day and a Happy Thanksgiving!