Chapter VI:
The Man in the Shadow
Subaru sat quietly at the long dining table, the sounds of conversation and clinking cutlery filling the air. Across from him, Emilia and Roswaal spoke in hushed tones, their words too low for him to catch. Subaru's gaze lingered on his untouched meal as he contemplated his next move. Events had played out much like his last run, with minor deviations in conversation. It was a strange, isolating experience to relive the same events while bearing the sole knowledge of his reset.
"As I was saying, my dear Subaru," Roswaal's sing-song voice broke through Subaru's thoughts, drawing his attention. "I would grant you any wish you desire for your help with Lady Emilia."
Looking up from his plate, Subaru paused, weighing his words carefully. "I thank you, Lord Roswaal, truly," he began with a respectful nod. "If I may, I would like to offer myself in service to Lady Emilia's candidacy. Of course, I understand that decision rests with her."
Roswaal's painted lips curved into an amused smile. "Interesting. And what, exactly, did you have in mind?"
"I am a warrior," Subaru replied plainly. "I would like to serve Lady Emilia in that capacity."
"You wish to become a bodyguard of sorts?" Roswaal mused, leaning forward slightly. "Or perhaps your aims are higher? Maybe you seek to become her Chosen Knight?" His tone was light, almost playful. "Though, of course, the only one in this household who can bestow such an honor is Lady Emilia herself."
At this, Emilia looked somewhat surprised. Setting down her fork, she tilted her head slightly. "I haven't chosen anyone to be my knight, it's true," she admitted. "And until I do, I don't think I require a bodyguard."
"No, I think it would be a good thing for you, Lady Emilia," Roswaal interjected smoothly. "I recommend this course of action. Consider my endorsement as payment for his assistance in saving you, my lady. If anything, you've said he's proven himself somewhat skilled. It never hurts to have someone loyal to our cause. After all, it's a station well-suited to someone who risked their life for you."
Subaru's gaze shifted to Roswaal, scrutinizing the man's painted smile. Can I really trust him? The thought gnawed at him. While Rem's actions might have been her own, her loyalty to Roswaal meant Subaru couldn't discount the possibility that the margrave was suspicious of him. Does Roswaal sense the Witch's taint on me too? Or is it just Rem?
The idea that something beyond his control was staining his reputation vexed Subaru deeply. This must be tied to my ability to return from death. I need to learn more about this Witch, he resolved. But he knew that seeking such information in the mansion could only deepen their suspicions. He would have to tread carefully.
"In that case, I shall accept your offer!" Emilia said suddenly, her face brightening with a smile.
Subaru returned her smile with one of his own. "I am grateful," he said sincerely. "I've already taken so much from your generosity—food, shelter, and kindness. To repay you, I'd like to offer my help to your staff whenever I'm not needed by Lady Emilia."
Roswaal raised a painted brow, his amusement apparent. "An interesting proposition. It would certainly give you a better understanding of the manor and its workings." He seemed to consider the suggestion for a moment before nodding. "Very well. I'll leave it to Ram and Rem to decide how and when you may assist them."
Subaru inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you, Lord Roswaal. I'll do my best to prove myself useful."
As the conversation shifted to lighter topics, Subaru allowed himself a moment of reprieve. This might be my chance to turn things around, he thought. If I can gain their trust and learn more about the Witch, I might finally be able to break this cycle.
It wasn't long before the maids put Subaru to work. Ram handed him an apron and promptly led him to the kitchen, where both she and Rem wasted no time assigning him tasks. Subaru found himself peeling potatoes, scrubbing dishes, and assisting with basic meal preparations.
As he worked, he noticed Rem stealing glances at him, her suspicion evident. Subaru couldn't blame her. The Witch's scent clung to him like an invisible stain, and he knew it was fueling her distrust. Still, he remained diligent, focusing on his tasks while silently practicing his mana flow. Compared to his state before his resurrection, controlling his gate felt marginally easier—a small mercy in his otherwise uphill battle.
Hours passed as Subaru learned the lay of the manor. Ram guided him through his duties with her usual blunt demeanor, pointing out his mistakes with a sharp tongue but ultimately agreeing to take him under her wing. Subaru took it in stride, treating her comments as constructive rather than critical. He focused on acting as if this was all new to him, carefully concealing the knowledge he'd carried over from his previous life.
Later in the afternoon, Rem led Subaru to a small room where she began taking his measurements. She explained curtly that he would need a uniform if he was to assist the maids with their work around the manor. Subaru nodded, finding the request reasonable.
Once his measurements were taken, Rem excused herself, promising to prepare the uniform. Left with some free time, Subaru decided to take a walk through the halls of the mansion. He let his thoughts wander as he strolled, considering how best to navigate the delicate balance of earning trust while avoiding suspicion.
As he turned a corner, a strange sensation washed over him—a pull, almost magnetic, drawing him toward a door to his right. Curiosity piqued, Subaru hesitated for a moment before reaching for the handle. Pulling the door open, he was greeted by the sight of the magical wandering library beyond the threshold.
Inside, Beatrice sat on her bed, cradling Puck in her arms. She giggled softly, her usually cold demeanor melting as she nuzzled the cat-spirit's soft fur. Puck seemed content, purring faintly in her embrace.
Beatrice's gaze shifted toward the door, her expression quickly reverting to mild annoyance as she noticed Subaru. "What do you want, I suppose?" she asked, her tone sharp.
"I'm not sure," Subaru admitted as he stepped cautiously into the library. "Oh, hi there, Puck." He gave the spirit a small wave.
"Hey, Subaru!" Puck waved cheerfully, flopping onto Beatrice's golden head of hair in an exaggerated motion, his small body sprawled out as if he'd just completed a great feat.
Beatrice scowled, her patience already wearing thin. "Well, if you don't have a reason to invade my library, you can leave, I suppose," she said, raising her hand as if preparing to eject him with one of her magical abilities.
Subaru quickly raised his hands defensively. "Wait, wait! I was just curious. Do you—or Puck—know anything about Yin magic? Since we're here and all."
"Oh?" Puck floated into the air, his ears twitching with interest. "Yin magic, you say? Do you have an affinity for it, Subaru?"
Subaru nodded, his expression earnest. "I wouldn't even call myself a novice at this point, but I'd like to learn more."
"No," Beatrice said flatly, turning away with a huff. "I have no interest in teaching you, I suppose."
"Well, he is pledged to help Lia," Puck reasoned, floating around Beatrice's head with an amused smile. "So, I think it's worth teaching him at least the basics. He'll need it to be useful in the long run."
Subaru grinned and offered Puck a thumbs up. "Sounds good to me. Thanks, Puck."
"Is that all, then?" Beatrice asked bluntly, her annoyance palpable.
"I think so," Subaru replied with a shrug.
"Good. Then you can leave, I suppose." With a flick of her wrist, a burst of magic sent Subaru hurtling out of the library. He landed in the hall, rolling to his feet on instinct.
That afternoon, Subaru found himself standing in the courtyard alongside Puck, much like in his previous life. The small spirit floated in front of him, his eyes gleaming with mischief.
"All right! Let me show you a simple example of Yin magic," Puck said enthusiastically. "This one's called Shamak!" With a wave of his paw, a cloud of black smoke erupted around Subaru, engulfing him in an instant.
The sensation was immediate and overwhelming. Every sense Subaru had—sight, hearing, touch—vanished entirely. It was as though he had been dropped into a vast, empty void. There was no sound, no light, no feeling—just an endless abyss pressing in on him. The absence of sensation created an almost primal urge to panic.
And then, just as suddenly as it had begun, the magic was dispelled. The world snapped back into focus, the courtyard's sights and sounds returning as if they had never left.
"That's Shamak!" Puck announced proudly, floating around Subaru with a satisfied grin. "It's a spell that disrupts an enemy's senses, making it impossible for them to see, hear, or even feel their surroundings. They can still feel physical objects and pain, though. It's very effective at disorienting enemies and buying you time."
Subaru took a deep breath, steadying himself after the unsettling experience. "That was… intense," he admitted. "Losing all my senses like that—it felt like I was floating in nothingness."
"Exactly!" Puck said, nodding. "That's the strength of Shamak. The enemy can't tell where they are or what's happening. It's not lethal, but in the right situation, it can be a lifesaver."
"That's pretty useful, either as an offensive or defensive tactic," Subaru noted, his mind already spinning with possible scenarios where Shamak could turn the tide of a fight.
"Yin magic is all about counters," Puck explained, floating lazily nearby. "It's not inherently offensive, though at higher levels it can debuff someone so severely that it causes physical harm. In the right hands, Yin magic might be one of the deadliest types out there. Render your opponent helpless, and they're wide open for attacks."
Subaru rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "How many spells are there in Yin magic?"
"Hard to say," Puck replied, ears twitching. "In theory, the number could be infinite. The way you manifest your magic depends on creativity, training, and control. But creating new spells is dangerous business—it can easily get someone killed. As for known spells, there are a few hundred documented, based on what I've seen in Beako's library. If a spell exists, I'm sure Roswaal has it stored somewhere in his collection."
"That's good to know," Subaru mused. "Maybe Roswaal would be willing to share some of his collection with me... assuming I can get the hang of Shamak first."
"Well, give it a shot," Puck encouraged. "But keep this in mind: casting a spell will always draw on the mana in your gate. It will take the exact amount needed, no matter how much—or how little—you have available. If your gate is empty and you try to cast a spell, you risk damaging it. Worse, if you can't control the flow properly, you might overextend and burn through all your mana in one go. The more powerful the spell, the harder it is to regulate the drain. That's why training your gate takes so much time."
Subaru nodded, closing his eyes to focus. "Makes sense. All right, let's give this a try." He visualized his gate, picturing it as a door that he could open and close at will. "Here goes… SHAMAK!"
There was an immediate, heavy tug at his mana as the spell activated. Subaru gritted his teeth, feeling the surge of energy rushing out of his gate. He forced the door shut as quickly as he could, though he'd let a bit too much mana escape. Still, he managed to close it before the spell completely drained him.
A burst of smoke exploded from Subaru's hands, enveloping Puck in an inky black cloud. For a moment, the spirit was hidden entirely. Then, with a wave of his paw, Puck dispelled the cloud, revealing his grinning face.
"Very good, Subaru!" Puck praised, offering an exaggerated thumbs-up. "I'd give that a solid seven out of ten!"
"Not bad for a novice," Subaru smirked, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow.
"Not bad at all," Puck agreed, his tone encouraging. "But you still have a long way to go with mana control. You probably used enough mana to cast the spell twice over. That's pretty common for someone new to spellcasting, though. You're learning."
"Hopefully, with time, I can improve," Subaru said, his grin widening. "Maybe in a month, I'll be giving you a run for your money."
"Ha!" Puck laughed heartily. "That's the spirit, Subaru! Keep up that attitude, and you'll be a master in no time."
Subaru chuckled along with him, though the strain of using magic still lingered in his body. He knew he had a long road ahead, but for the first time, he felt like he was beginning to make progress. One step at a time, he thought, determination burning in his chest.
"That's pretty useful, either as an offensive or defensive tactic," Subaru noted, his mind already spinning with possible scenarios where Shamak could turn the tide of a fight.
"Yin magic is all about counters," Puck explained, floating lazily nearby. "It's not inherently offensive, though at higher levels it can debuff someone so severely that it causes physical harm. In the right hands, Yin magic might be one of the deadliest types out there. Render your opponent helpless, and they're wide open for attacks."
Subaru rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "How many spells are there in Yin magic?"
"Hard to say," Puck replied, ears twitching. "In theory, the number could be infinite. The way you manifest your magic depends on creativity, training, and control. But creating new spells is dangerous business—it can easily get someone killed. As for known spells, there are a few hundred documented, based on what I've seen in Beako's library. If a spell exists, I'm sure Roswaal has it stored somewhere in his collection."
"That's good to know," Subaru mused. "Maybe Roswaal would be willing to share some of his collection with me... assuming I can get the hang of Shamak first."
"Well, give it a shot," Puck encouraged. "But keep this in mind: casting a spell will always draw on the mana in your gate. It will take the exact amount needed, no matter how much—or how little—you have available. If your gate is empty and you try to cast a spell, you risk damaging it. Worse, if you can't control the flow properly, you might overextend and burn through all your mana in one go. The more powerful the spell, the harder it is to regulate the drain. That's why training your gate takes so much time."
Subaru nodded, closing his eyes to focus. "Makes sense. All right, let's give this a try." He visualized his gate, picturing it as a door that he could open and close at will. "Here goes… SHAMAK!"
There was an immediate, heavy tug at his mana as the spell activated. Subaru gritted his teeth, feeling the surge of energy rushing out of his gate. He forced the door shut as quickly as he could, though he'd let a bit too much mana escape. Still, he managed to close it before the spell completely drained him.
A burst of smoke exploded from Subaru's hands, enveloping Puck in an inky black cloud. For a moment, the spirit was hidden entirely. Then, with a wave of his paw, Puck dispelled the cloud, revealing his grinning face.
"Very good, Subaru!" Puck praised, offering an exaggerated thumbs-up. "I'd give that a solid seven out of ten!"
"Not bad for a novice," Subaru smirked, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow.
"Not bad at all," Puck agreed, his tone encouraging. "But you still have a long way to go with mana control. You probably used enough mana to cast the spell twice over. That's pretty common for someone new to spellcasting, though. You're learning."
"Hopefully, with time, I can improve," Subaru said, his grin widening. "Maybe in a month, I'll be giving you a run for your money."
"Ha!" Puck laughed heartily. "That's the spirit, Subaru! Keep up that attitude, and you'll be a master in no time."
Subaru chuckled along with him, though the strain of using magic still lingered in his body. He knew he had a long road ahead, but for the first time, he felt like he was beginning to make progress. One step at a time, he thought, determination burning in his chest.
Subaru had always hated working in the mess hall during his time in the army, and his chores in the manor weren't much better. It wasn't that he was bad at it—far from it. In fact, he was miles ahead of Ram in terms of competence. But the work itself was tedious at best. Rem carried the bulk of the actual cooking, which was fine by Subaru. He was content to follow her lead in the kitchen, fetching spices, dicing onions, or completing whatever menial tasks she assigned.
He had to admit, Rem was exceptionally skilled at cooking. She moved through the kitchen with precision and efficiency, her every motion practiced and deliberate. Subaru found a strange comfort in assisting her, though their conversations remained minimal.
At the end of the evening, after the kitchen had been cleaned and everything put away, Rem surprised him with a small "Thank you" for his hard work. It was a brief moment of acknowledgment, but it meant more to Subaru than he cared to admit. It reminded him that, even if the work was monotonous, he was earning his place here—slowly but surely.
After Emilia and Roswaal had eaten their evening meal, the servants, Subaru now among them, sat down for their own dinner. Subaru didn't mind eating after the others; as far as the manor was concerned, he was just another servant, and even his role as Emilia's guard didn't afford him any special status.
Rem and Ram preferred to eat quietly, with Rem occasionally casting glances at Subaru as he tucked into the chicken and potatoes they'd prepared. Subaru, ever chatty, took the opportunity to ask the twins questions about the manor and his new duties. They had agreed on a flexible schedule for him, balancing his responsibilities as Emilia's guard with his work around the estate.
When the day finally ended, Subaru retired to his small quarters. The room was modest but comfortable, and he found solace in the quiet as he settled at the small desk by the window. He pulled out a few books, parchment, and a quill, dedicating himself to learning the written language of this world.
To his surprise, Subaru was making steady progress. The written language, though foreign, followed a consistent set of patterns and rules. He'd even managed to procure a dictionary from the small library, which proved invaluable in helping him understand the intricacies of Lugnica's lexicon. Compared to the maddening inconsistency of English—his second language—this one felt almost straightforward.
As he pored over the dictionary, jotting down notes and practicing his writing, Subaru found himself growing more confident. The structure of the language was logical, and his military training had ingrained in him a methodical approach to learning. It was a slow process, but with each passing night, he felt closer to fully understanding the world he was now part of.
As the wax of his candle dwindled, Subaru set aside his ink and parchment, snuffed out the flame, and crawled into the soft feather bed. Closing his eyes, he imagined his week as a timeline, carefully mapping out events. He figured he had a few days before Rem decided to try and kill him again. Gaining her trust was critical, but it had to be done genuinely. Any forced attempts to be overly friendly might only reinforce her suspicions.
For the next few days, Subaru's routine was simple but purposeful. He alternated between training on the grounds with Puck and helping Rem and Ram with the various tasks around the manor. The work was often tedious, but it gave him a sense of purpose in this unfamiliar world and helped him stay grounded.
On the fourth morning, as Subaru dressed, Rem appeared at his door with an unexpected request.
"There are several heavy items that need to be collected from the town," she said, her tone formal but less cold than before. "I would be grateful for your assistance, Subaru."
Naturally, Subaru agreed and followed her toward the town. For a brief moment, he considered bringing a bow with him but decided against it. If Rem had ulterior motives, he figured he could use Shamak to disorient her and escape with reinforcement magic. Besides, carrying a weapon to a peaceful town might raise eyebrows and only fuel suspicion.
As they entered the small village, Subaru took a moment to appreciate its quaint charm. The bustling market square was alive with activity as villagers traded goods and chatted with one another. Rem handed him a list of items to purchase, along with a small bag of coins.
"Meet me in the town center once you've collected everything," Rem instructed before turning to see to her own tasks.
Subaru glanced at the list. It took him a moment to decipher the handwriting, but he felt a swell of pride as he realized he could read most of it without trouble. The written language was starting to make sense to him.
Navigating the market, Subaru moved from vendor to vendor, collecting the items on the list. Fresh bread, ripe fruits, sacks of grain, and a few odds and ends quickly filled the three bags he carried. Subaru didn't bother haggling with the merchants; Roswaal's wealth made it unnecessary, and it felt wrong to try and bargain with people who lived far more modestly.
At one stall, Subaru noticed a child eyeing a tray of sweets with longing. Without hesitation, Subaru added a small selection of candies to his purchases and handed them to the child, who accepted them with wide, delighted eyes.
With the items secured, Subaru made his way to the town center and set the heavy bags down near the well. Straightening his back, he glanced up at the sky, his thoughts wandering.
How can I prevent Rem—or anyone else, for that matter—from trying to kill me this time? Subaru wondered. He knew that simply being friendly wouldn't be enough. From Rem's perspective, a spy or enemy agent would likely act the same way, trying to gain trust through false kindness. I need to show her, not just tell her, that I'm on their side. But how?
He tapped his foot against the cobblestone, mulling over possibilities. It wasn't just about surviving this time—it was about proving himself in a way that would earn not just trust but respect. Subaru knew he couldn't afford to misstep.
"Mister, mister!"
Subaru looked down to see several children gathered around him. He recognized a few of them from his walks through the town, especially the small girl with orange hair and a bright red bow on her head. He remembered giving her a sweet roll once when he'd bought goods from the baker.
"Oh? What can I do for you all?" Subaru asked with a smile as he knelt down to their level.
"Petra said you got her sweets!" one of the boys piped up, pointing at the girl with the bow.
"Well, I suppose I did," Subaru chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "I guess you're all a little jealous now, huh?"
The children giggled, and Subaru reached into the small leather pouch at his side, pulling out a handful of coins. He distributed them among the group. "Here, go treat yourselves to something nice. But don't go getting used to this—I'm not handing out money all the time, alright?"
The children cheered, thanking him enthusiastically, and the girl with the bow—Petra—grinned up at him. "What's your name, mister?"
"You can call me Subaru," he replied, giving her a playful wink. Just then, Subaru felt a gentle tug on the back of his shirt. He turned to see a timid-looking girl with short blue hair and olive-green eyes peeking up at him curiously.
"Since Mister Subaru was so nice to us," the girl said softly, "I'd like to show him the pup we found."
"Oh? A pup, you say?" Subaru mused, tilting his head. Before he could respond, he spotted Rem approaching from down the street. "Ah, welcome back, Rem," Subaru said, rising to his feet.
"Subaru," Rem greeted, her expression calm as her blue hair swayed slightly in the breeze. She glanced at the group of children surrounding him. "You've made friends, I see."
"Yeah, well," Subaru chuckled, rubbing his neck. "I guess bribing kids with sweets will do that."
Rem gave a faint smile before addressing him directly. "We should be returning, Subaru. Do you have everything you need?"
"Rem, Rem!" the children chanted in unison, drawing her attention. "Please let us show Mister Subaru Meili's pup! It's so cute!"
"Yeah! She's adorable!" Petra chimed in, bouncing with excitement.
Rem looked from the eager children to Subaru, her expression briefly contemplative. Subaru shrugged, giving her a sheepish grin. With a small sigh, Rem relented. "I suppose we have time yet," she said.
The children erupted in cheers, grabbing Subaru's hands and tugging him down the street toward their prize. Subaru glanced over his shoulder at Rem, who followed with her usual composed demeanor.
"Well," Subaru said with a chuckle, "let's go meet this famous pup, shall we?"
Following the children to the edge of the forest, Subaru noticed a small wooden fence marking the boundary. The blue-haired girl, Meili, approached the brushline, crouching low as she called softly. Moments later, a small black puppy scampered out, its tail wagging timidly. Meili scooped the puppy into her arms, beaming with pride as she carried it over to the group.
"Isn't he cute?" Petra exclaimed, grinning at Subaru.
"He is a cute little one," Subaru agreed, leaning down to meet the puppy's eyes. As he extended his hand to pet it, the puppy whimpered and shrank back, its small body trembling. Meili's smile wavered, her green eyes flicking to Subaru with concern.
"Shy too, it seems," Subaru said reassuringly. Slowly, he began to scratch behind the puppy's ears. After a moment, the tiny creature seemed to relax, leaning slightly into his touch—before suddenly biting down on his hand with surprising force.
"Ah!" Subaru grunted, yanking his hand back. A sharp, burning pain radiated through his fingers and palm, and he shook his hand instinctively. "Not very friendly, it seems."
For a fleeting moment, Subaru felt something strange stir within him—a discomfort that wasn't just physical. It was as though something inside him had shifted, briefly unsettled, before settling again.
What the hell was that? Subaru thought, his hand still throbbing.
"Are you alright, Mister Subaru?" one of the children asked, their wide eyes filled with concern.
"I'll be fine, don't worry," Subaru said with a forced smile, hiding the ache. "These things happen. But on that note, Rem and I should be going now."
"Okay! Until next time, Mister Subaru!" the children chorused, waving enthusiastically as Subaru and Rem began their walk back.
As they strolled through the village, Rem spoke up. "Oh, Subaru, I almost forgot—the last item we need is at the far end of the village. I can carry the rest if you can manage the next item for me."
"Sure thing. What's left?" Subaru asked.
At the edge of town, they arrived at a shop where a man was patting a large wooden barrel. "Rem! Here's Lord Roswaal's barrel of ale," the man announced.
Subaru eyed the hefty barrel skeptically before stepping forward to lift it. With the flow of mana coursing through his body, he managed to hoist it onto his shoulder, though it was no small feat. Without the magical reinforcement, he was sure his back would have given out under the weight.
As they walked back, Subaru adjusted the barrel and spoke casually with Rem about the tasks for the following day. Rem listed various chores he might assist with, particularly when not tending to his role as Emilia's self-appointed guard. Despite the effort required to carry the barrel, Subaru found the mundane conversation a welcome distraction.
When they reached the grand entrance of the manor, Subaru was surprised to see Roswaal and Ram waiting for them. Both were dressed in formal attire, an unusual sight. Roswaal's top hat and impeccably tailored coat gave him an imposing air, a stark contrast to his usual eccentricity.
"Ah, Rem, Subaru—I see you've returned!" Roswaal greeted them with his signature flair. "Excellent timing. Now I can spare Ram some time to explain my departure."
"Departure?" Subaru asked, setting down the barrel with a heavy thud and releasing the magical flow from his body. The relief was instant. "Where are you off to, if you don't mind my asking?"
Roswaal tipped his hat with a sly smile. "I'm off to meet someone quite particular about manners and dress. I've received a message with some... troubling news. I don't expect to return today, so I leave the manor in your care—Ram, Rem."
"Yes, sir," the twins said in unison, bowing with perfect synchronicity.
As Roswaal passed, he rested a hand on Subaru's shoulder, leaning in slightly. "I trust you will keep my manor safe as well, along with Lady Emilia," he said in a tone that was both casual and commanding.
"I understand," Subaru nodded, standing a little straighter.
Roswaal's gaze flicked briefly to Subaru's bandaged hand, and for a fleeting moment, his expression shifted into one of puzzlement. The look vanished as quickly as it came, replaced by his usual theatrical smile. Straightening up, he tipped his hat once more before leaping into the air with a powerful burst of wind. Within seconds, he rocketed across the sky, disappearing into the horizon.
Subaru stared, dumbfounded by the impossibility of the act. "He just... flew," he muttered.
"If carrying a barrel is this much effort," Subaru mused, glancing at the barrel he'd just hauled, "I'd probably kill myself trying to hover off the ground, let alone fly like that."
Rem glanced at him, her usual calm expression giving way to a faint smirk. "Perhaps it's best if you stick to barrels for now."
Subaru chuckled despite himself. "Yeah, barrels I can handle. Flying's definitely out of my league."
That evening, Subaru collapsed onto his bed in a heap, the exhaustion of the day weighing heavily on his aching body. The strain wasn't just physical; the extended use of his gate to bolster his strength had left him with a dull, throbbing headache. Sleep came as a welcome reprieve, and he pulled the covers over his head, surrendering to the pull of rest.
Yet his dreams were far from peaceful.
When Subaru drifted off, he found himself in a place unlike any dream he had ever experienced. This dream felt vivid, almost hyperreal. His mind was sharp, lucid, and painfully aware. He stood in a forest shrouded in darkness, where the trees were twisted, dead, or dying, their skeletal branches clawing at the black sky. The air was heavy with the acrid scent of decay, and a pale mist clung to the ground, swirling around Subaru's feet as he moved.
He wandered through the haze, the silence pressing in on him like a suffocating blanket. Eventually, he came to a clearing, where a strange sight greeted him. In the center stood a throne made of gnarled roots that twisted upward like reaching claws. Upon the throne sat a figure, shrouded in shadow so absolute that no details could be discerned. The figure was an outline of a man, but the darkness cloaking him was deeper than any void Subaru could imagine.
The figure sat motionless, its head tilted as if asleep.
"Hm?" The figure stirred, inclining its head slightly as if it had sensed Subaru's presence. Its voice was low and groggy, as though pulled from a deep slumber. "Flugel?" it questioned.
"Who?" Subaru asked, startled by the name.
"No... similar, but…" The figure yawned, the sound reverberating through the clearing. The oppressive darkness seemed to thicken, inching closer. "You're different," it concluded, its voice trailing off into a murmur.
"This is a dream," Subaru said aloud, half to himself.
"Dreams, yes," the figure replied, its voice dripping with an unsettling calm. "Much like the void—dark and cold. The spell, it called me to dream."
"Spell?" Subaru asked, his brow furrowing.
"You didn't cast it?" The figure's head tilted slightly. "Ah, it must have been her, then. Yes… her. I remember now."
"What are you talking about?" Subaru demanded, taking a step forward despite the chill that ran through him.
The figure chuckled lightly, a sound both human and alien. "Ah, I see now. Flugel is dead. You are Subaru, then."
"How do you know my name?" Subaru asked, his voice steady despite the unease gnawing at him.
"We are… connected," the figure said, its tone heavy with meaning. "A connection born of your death."
Subaru's breath hitched. "Which one?" he asked, a strange weight settling in his chest as he spoke the words aloud. It felt surreal, even now, to acknowledge that he had died more than once.
"The first, of course," the shadowy figure replied, settling back into its throne of twisted roots. "I don't have the energy to explain it all right now. I must sleep. However, before I drift away…" The figure paused, its tone laced with disdain. "I will do us both a favor and remove that curse from your hand—it offends me deeply."
"Curse?" Subaru repeated, looking down at his hand. To his shock, dark plumes of smoke began to rise from the bite wound left by the puppy in town. "What the hell is this?"
"That mark is a tether to an abomination," the figure said, its voice growing faint, as if each word was a struggle. "Put the power you've borrowed from me to good use and destroy it. I would help you further, but... I am too tired... and must sleep. I am certain… we will…" The figure's voice faded as its head tilted, falling back into an apparent stupor.
Before Subaru could respond, the forest around him seemed to collapse inward. Darkness surged like a tide, rushing to envelop him completely. The oppressive air pressed against his chest, and in the next instant, he was falling.
With a gasp, Subaru jolted upright in his bed, his heart racing. A sharp, fiery pain erupted in his hand, making him clutch it instinctively. He stared in horror as a geyser of black smoke burst from the bite marks, spiraling into the air before dissipating into nothingness. His hand glowed faintly as the marks closed themselves shut, leaving his skin smooth and unscarred.
"What the fuck?" Subaru whispered, his voice trembling as he stared at his now-healed hand. His mind raced with confusion, unable to reconcile what had just happened.
The remnants of the dream lingered in his thoughts—the shadowy figure, the curse, and the command to kill. Whatever he had just experienced, it felt far too real to dismiss as a simple nightmare. As the pain in his hand subsided, Subaru sat back against the headboard, his breath coming in shallow gasps.
What in the hell have I gotten myself into? he wondered, his fingers clenching unconsciously as he tried to steady himself.
The room was silent save for the sound of his own breathing, but Subaru couldn't shake the feeling that whatever had just happened was only the beginning of something far darker.
Racing down the manor's grand staircase, Subaru hurriedly pulled on his repaired military uniform. His thoughts raced as a single term echoed in his mind: Demon Beasts. He wasn't entirely sure what a demon beast was, but something deep in his soul seemed to name the creature responsible for the curse on his hand. The thought of such a monstrosity walking freely made his blood boil with unexplainable rage.
"Subaru?" Emilia's soft voice called from a nearby corridor. Turning, Subaru saw her step into view, dressed in a flowing purple silk nightgown that caught the faint moonlight. Her concerned eyes searched his face. "Where are you going?"
"I think I was cursed by a demon beast earlier when Rem and I were in town," Subaru said bluntly. "I'm going to investigate. I can't imagine I was the only one affected. Don't worry, Emilia—I'll be back before dawn." Or dead, he thought grimly.
"A demon beast?" Ram's voice carried through the hall as she and Rem approached from behind Emilia, both in their night attire but looking fully alert. "What makes you suspect such a thing, Subaru?"
"I woke up and saw black smoke rising from the bite mark on my hand," Subaru explained, holding his hand up for emphasis. "For some reason, the curse was dispelled by… something." He hesitated. He wasn't lying, but the full truth—that a shadowy figure in his dream had removed the curse—was a mystery he wasn't ready to share.
"That's… troubling," Emilia said, her brow furrowing. "You were cursed, and then something unknown removed it? That doesn't sound like something we can ignore."
"We can worry about the details later," Subaru cut in firmly. "Right now, I'm more concerned about the villagers. If there are demon beasts nearby, they might already be in danger. You three stay here and protect Emilia. Roswaal tasked us with keeping the manor and her safe, and I see these creatures as a direct threat to both."
Ram considered his words carefully before nodding. "I agree with your reasoning." She turned to her sister. "Rem, you will accompany Subaru. Demon beasts are not to be taken lightly."
"Sister…" Rem began, her expression conflicted.
"It is Roswaal's command that we protect Emilia and the manor," Ram said with quiet authority. "This is my judgment. Please go. I will remain here and watch over Lady Emilia."
Emilia stepped forward, placing a gentle hand on Subaru's chest. Her amethyst eyes locked onto his. "I don't like this at all, but if you're determined to go…" She took a breath. "May the blessings of the spirits be with you."
Equipped with a bow and arrows he had used in the previous loop, a short sword fastened to his belt, and a determination burning in his chest, Subaru left the manor alongside Rem. She carried her Morningstar, its spiked metal head swinging ominously at her side. The sight of it made Subaru wince, remembering its sting all too well.
Bolstering his legs with mana, Subaru sprinted down the moonlit road toward the village. Rem kept pace with ease, her movements graceful and unstrained. Subaru couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy at her superior magical abilities.
When they arrived, the village was in chaos. Men with torches called out names, running frantically through the streets, their faces pale with panic. Subaru stopped one of the villagers, a middle-aged man clutching a lantern with shaking hands.
"Excuse me," Rem said, stepping forward. "What's happened?"
The man's eyes widened as he recognized her. "Lady Rem! Several children have gone missing! They vanished from their beds in the middle of the night. We've searched everywhere, but there's no sign of them."
Subaru's stomach dropped. "I think I might know where to look," he said, urgency sharpening his voice. "Follow me!"
Without waiting for confirmation, Subaru turned and ran toward the outskirts of the village, Rem and the man close on his heels. His mind raced as he approached the edge of the forest—the same spot where the children had shown him the stray puppy earlier that day.
Stopping just short of the treeline, Subaru scanned the brush, his heart pounding as he searched for any sign of the missing children.
"Look!" Rem pointed to the trees, her voice sharp with urgency. Several green crystals glowed faintly in the dim light. "There, one of the barrier crystals has been broken."
"What happens when the barrier is broken?" Subaru asked, concern etched into his face.
"Demon beasts can cross the barrier and enter the village," Rem explained gravely.
"Makes sense," Subaru muttered. "A dumb question on my part."
"You're saying that demon beasts took the children?!" a villager stammered, his voice trembling with fear.
"Seems likely," Rem confirmed, her tone grim.
"Go tell the other villagers," Subaru instructed the man. Without hesitation, the villager nodded and sprinted back toward the rest of the search party. Subaru tightened his grip on the hilt of his weapon. "I'm going in after them."
"Wait, we should think about this first!" Rem said, grabbing Subaru's arm to stop him. Her grip was firm, her expression serious. "It might not be a coincidence that this happened the same night Lord Roswaal had to leave. This could be a diversion to pull us away from the mansion."
"I'm not abandoning children to death when I have the chance to save them," Subaru retorted sharply. "If you're wrong, and this is nothing more than a tragic accident, then I couldn't live with myself knowing I left them to die."
"Why go so far for these people? Why does this village matter to you so much?" Rem asked, her voice soft but searching.
"Because it's the right thing to do," Subaru declared firmly. "Even if I don't really know those kids, someone loves them. Their deaths would shatter the hearts of mothers and fathers. I'm a warrior, not a coward. What kind of person would I be if I let innocents die when I might be able to save them—even at the cost of my own life?" He paused, his gaze hardening. "And if that's not enough for you, what kind of lord would Roswaal be if his servants cared more about defending his manor and riches than protecting the lives of his subjects? I'm going into the forest, with or without you, Rem."
Rem's expression shifted as his words sank in. After a moment, she bowed her head in resignation. "Very well. I'll join you. I can't let you go alone—not with your reckless tendencies."
Subaru smiled despite the tension in the air. "Glad to hear it."
The two ventured into the dark, dense forest, with Rem leading the way. Her sharp senses tracked several sets of paw prints, and she occasionally sniffed the air, detecting faint traces of the demon beasts' lingering scent. They moved cautiously, their breaths visible in the chilly night air.
After several tense minutes, they broke through the trees into a clearing. Rolling green hills stretched out before them under the pale light of the moon. Atop one of the hills lay a group of children, their small bodies sprawled out and eerily still. Subaru's heart sank at the sight.
Running to them, Subaru knelt beside a child and gently shook her. "Wake up," he urged, but there was no response. He checked her pulse and found it weak but steady. Her breathing was shallow, and her face was pale. They were alive—but barely.
"She's alive! They're all still alive!" Subaru shouted, relief flooding his voice as he knelt next to the girl, Petra.
Rem knelt beside him and placed her hand on Petra's head, her expression grim. "No, they might be breathing for now, but their condition is critical. If they're left like this…" she trailed off, her voice heavy with concern.
"It must be the curse," Subaru said, his gaze scanning the children's limp forms. His eyes fell on the faint bite marks on their limbs. "It's killing them."
"Can you remove the curse?" he asked urgently.
Rem shook her head, frustration evident in her expression. "It's beyond my skill. Can't you? You managed to remove the curse on yourself, didn't you?"
Subaru hesitated. "Yes, but I'm not entirely sure how I did it," he admitted. "It might have something to do with… my divine protection."
Rem's eyes flickered with understanding. "It's possible, but we don't have time to figure that out now. We need to get them to my sister. She'd know how to handle this."
Her hands began to glow with a soft blue light as she reached out over Petra and the other children. "For now, I can stabilize them. My magic will ease their pain until Ram can properly tend to them."
Subaru nodded, his brow furrowed as he watched Rem's magic take hold. "For now…"
"Mister Subaru?" a weak voice called out.
Startled, Subaru looked down to see Petra's small hand reaching out to grip his. He gently took her hand in his own. "Shh," he whispered, his voice steady as he tried to reassure her. "Rest now, little one. Don't waste your strength. Everything will be alright."
"Meili… is still…" Petra's faint voice trailed off as she lost consciousness. Rem's magic continued to soothe her and the other children, keeping their fragile lives tethered.
"Meili?" Subaru repeated, alarm spreading through him as he recalled the blue-haired girl from earlier. Frantically, his eyes darted over the group of children, realizing she was nowhere to be found. "One of the kids is missing," he said, rising to his feet and pulling the bow from his back. "I'm going to look for her. Get the others to Ram."
"You can't," Rem said sharply, standing to block his path. "It's far too dangerous. Given how strong this curse is, there must be a pack of demon beasts out there. Hundreds, even. And if they've taken her… she's likely already…"
"I know what you're trying to say," Subaru interrupted, his tone resolute. "But if there's even the slightest chance she's alive, I have to try."
"Don't be greedy!" Rem scolded, her voice rising in frustration. "If you try to take on more than you can handle, you'll end up getting yourself killed—alongside her!"
"Then that is my fate. Regardless, I'm going after her," Subaru said, his resolve unshaken.
"We have no idea what threat these demon beasts truly present or when help might arrive," Rem countered, her tone a mix of caution and frustration. "The worst-case scenario is that I won't be able to find you if something happens."
Subaru smirked faintly. "You have a strong nose, and apparently, I stink of the witch," he noted wryly. "I'm sure you'll have no trouble tracking me down."
Rem froze for a moment, visibly taken aback by the casual admission. "How much do you know about… that?" she asked carefully.
"Nothing," Subaru admitted, his gaze firm. "Or at least nothing that makes sense. I don't have answers, not even for the burning questions in my own mind—which seem to multiply by the minute." He turned to face her fully, kneeling slightly to meet her gaze. "But I'll make you a promise, and you can hold me to it: once we've saved these children, I'll answer every question you want to ask me. And I'll have some questions for you as well."
Rem studied him intently, her expression a mix of concern and curiosity. "Very well," she said finally, her voice soft but determined. "You've made your promise, and I will hold you to it. Be prepared—I may have many questions."
"Excellent!" Subaru grinned, standing tall again. "I look forward to it."
"Don't do anything too reckless until I've had the chance to rejoin you," Rem warned, her tone bordering on stern. "I can't exactly have a conversation with a corpse, now can I?"
Subaru chuckled lightly. "As I said, my word is my bond. I won't make any promises I can't keep." With that, he turned and bolted down the hill, his bow in hand, disappearing into the forest as Rem called after him to be careful.
The dense forest closed in around Subaru as he ran, his breathing steady and his senses sharp. He felt the weight of unseen eyes on him, a creeping awareness of being watched. His gaze darted from shadow to shadow, catching flickers of movement at the edges of his vision. Whatever was stalking him stayed hidden, lingering in the periphery like a predator sizing up its prey.
Subaru kept an arrow knocked in his bow, ready to release it at the first sign of danger. Each crack of a branch or rustle of leaves sent adrenaline coursing through his veins, but the creatures hunting him seemed content to stay in the shadows—for now.
After what felt like an eternity of tense searching, Subaru stumbled through a patch of dense bushes and came upon a small valley. Near a fallen tree lay Meili, her small frame crumpled on the forest floor. Her face was pale, and her breath came in shallow gasps.
Subaru's eyes narrowed as he scanned the area. The valley was open and exposed—a perfect kill zone. He could feel the weight of a trap bearing down on him, the calculated placement of the girl too obvious to ignore. It was as if his unseen foes were daring him to step into their territory.
But time was his enemy. Meili's condition was dire, and he had no way of knowing how long the curse would allow her to survive. Even if it was a trap, Subaru realized grimly, he had no choice but to spring it.
Taking a deep breath, Subaru stepped into the clearing, his bow raised and his senses on high alert.
Leaving the safety of the trees, Subaru cautiously approached the girl. Meili lay on the ground, her small frame trembling with each labored breath. Her face was slick with sweat, and when Subaru placed a hand on her forehead, it burned like fire. At least she's alive, he thought with a grim sense of relief.
A sudden rustling from the underbrush snapped Subaru's attention away. Turning on his heel, he froze as a creature burst forth—a beast that could only be described as a demon dog. Its glowing red eyes fixed on him like burning coals, and its fangs glistened in the moonlight. The creature bounded toward him, muscles rippling with lethal intent.
Subaru's instincts took over. Pulling up his bow, he nocked an arrow and loosed it in one fluid motion. The projectile flew with blinding speed, striking the beast square between its blazing red eyes. The creature let out a choking growl before collapsing mid-leap, its lifeless body hitting the ground with a dull thud.
Subaru exhaled sharply, his relief short-lived as his gaze swept the tree line. There, through the shadows, a sea of glowing red eyes emerged, surrounding him on all sides.
"I don't think I have enough arrows for all of you," Subaru muttered, his voice strained as he swallowed hard. "So, you'll have to share!"
Knocking another arrow, Subaru let it fly, and a pained yelp confirmed another kill. Then came the howl—a bone-chilling sound that echoed through the night. The signal was clear. The horde charged, bursting from the forest like a tide of death.
Subaru let his bow sing, arrows flying as fast as his hands could nock them. Each shot landed true, striking down the demonic beasts before they could reach him. Mana coursed through his veins, bolstering his speed and precision, turning him into a blur of motion. He whirled, his arrows cutting through the air as he fought to hold back the seemingly endless tide.
But it wasn't enough. Despite his skill, the horde pressed in closer with every second. The ground trembled beneath their onslaught, and soon Subaru was forced to slay them mere feet from where he stood.
Reaching back, Subaru's hand grasped at empty air. His quiver was empty. Cursing under his breath, he cast aside his bow and unsheathed the short sword at his hip. "Come get me, you bastards!" he roared, bracing himself for the onslaught.
A demon dog lunged at him, but Subaru sidestepped at the last second, driving his sword into its neck. The creature let out a strangled snarl before going limp. He barely had time to pull his blade free before another beast leaped onto him. Subaru cried out in pain as its jaws clamped down on his arm, its teeth sinking deep into his flesh. Blood dripped to the forest floor as the beast wrenched its head, pulling as though to tear his arm clean off.
Snarling through the pain, Subaru reached down and pulled the knife from his leg strap. With a vicious stab, he drove it into the creature's eye. The demon dog howled and released him, retreating into the shadows with blood streaming from its face.
Subaru yanked his sword free from the corpse of another fallen beast and spun just in time to face three more lunging at him. He raised his blade, determined to fight until his last breath, when the ground trembled with a new force.
Before the monsters could reach him, they were obliterated in an instant. A familiar Morningstar sailed through the air, smashing into the beasts with bone-shattering force.
Subaru turned toward the source of the attack, his breath hitching in relief. "Rem!" he called out as the blue-haired maid stepped into the clearing, her weapon already in motion.
"I remember telling you not to be reckless," she chided, her tone sharp yet relieved.
Subaru managed a weak grin, blood dripping from his injured arm. "Well, I can't help it."
Rem's Morningstar swung in wide arcs, crushing skulls and scattering the remaining beasts. Her strength was staggering, her blows so powerful that Subaru could feel the impact reverberate through the ground.
"Damn," Subaru muttered under his breath, watching her fight. "You're strong."
Rem glanced at him as she dispatched another beast with ease. "I'm not sure that's a compliment," she replied curtly before focusing back on the fight.
For a moment, the horde hesitated, their movements faltering under the weight of Rem's relentless assault.
Subaru seized the opportunity. "We need to get back to the barrier!" he shouted. "There are too many of them for us to handle alone."
"I agree," Rem replied, swinging her Morningstar with lethal precision.
"Take Meili. I can lead them away while you take her back to the village. Then we can regroup," Subaru said firmly, his voice resolute despite the pain radiating from his injured arm.
"There you go being reckless again," Rem objected, her tone sharp. "Your arm is severely injured, and I can sense your mana pool is running dangerously low. You take the girl back to the village, and I'll distract these creatures."
Subaru opened his mouth to protest, but before he could speak, Rem swung her Morningstar with lethal precision, smashing through several more demon beasts. Her blue eyes locked onto his with unwavering seriousness, leaving no room for debate.
"Very well," Subaru conceded reluctantly, his voice tinged with frustration. "I'll make a run for the village. Which direction?"
"Just north of here," Rem replied, her weapon crashing down to crush another charging beast. "I'll draw them away. Get her beyond the barrier—they won't be able to follow."
Subaru nodded, though his chest tightened with unease. He waited until Rem charged into the pack of beasts, her Morningstar cleaving through the line and scattering them. Taking his chance, Subaru hefted Meili into his arms and began running northward. Every step sent jolts of pain through his wounded arm, but he bit back the agony and pressed forward.
The cries of the beasts and the sound of Rem's relentless strikes echoed around him. Her ferocity kept the creatures at bay, buying Subaru precious seconds to escape.
Through the thick darkness of the forest, Subaru spotted a faint glow ahead—the dull flicker of torchlight marking the village's edge. Relief flickered within him as he drew closer. The thought of safety felt tantalizingly close.
Then, from another clearing, Rem came tumbling into view, her body marked with scrapes and shallow cuts. She landed in a crouch, her breathing labored but her grip on her Morningstar steady. Subaru skidded to a halt as his eyes darted past her to the horde of demon beasts emerging from the trees. At the front was the small dog that had bitten him earlier, its glowing red eyes gleaming with unnatural malice.
"Rem!" Subaru called out, his voice laced with alarm.
Rem turned her head, her gaze meeting his. "Keep going! The barrier is close now!" she shouted, her tone urgent.
Suddenly, a drowsy voice resonated in Subaru's mind. It senses me. Subaru froze, recognizing the voice from his dream. The girl can no longer serve as a decoy. It will pursue us now.
Subaru's breath hitched. Who are you? he thought desperately, but the voice gave no reply.
"Rem," Subaru said, his voice steady despite the turmoil within him. He gently set Meili on the ground. "Take the girl and go."
"I already told you—" Rem began, but Subaru cut her off.
"I'm not asking," he said, drawing his sword with his uninjured hand. "I'm telling you."
"But why?!" Rem's voice cracked, her frustration and concern spilling over.
"I don't know why," Subaru admitted, his gaze hardening as he stepped in front of her. "But they're after me now."
The moment Subaru moved forward, the beasts' demeanor shifted. They grew more frenzied, their glowing red eyes narrowing with a predatory gleam. They bared their fangs and stomped the ground, their bloodlust directed solely at him.
"Get her to safety," Subaru said without looking back. "You can rejoin me once she's beyond the barrier. They're focused on me now. You're faster than I am—get there and back before I do anything too stupid." "It's pretty hard to top something this stupid, Subaru," Rem rebuked, her sharp tone softened by the worry in her eyes. She bit her lip before continuing. "Are you certain about this?"
"No," Subaru admitted truthfully, his voice steady despite the chaos around them. "But I don't see any real option at this point."
Rem sighed and walked over to pick up the unconscious girl. She hesitated, looking at Subaru one last time, her blue eyes full of unease. "Don't die. Please."
With those words, Rem bounded toward the city, her movements swift and determined as she disappeared into the forest.
The moment she was out of sight, the horde sensed their moment. The pup at the forefront began to glow a fierce yellow, its magical aura spreading like wildfire, bolstering the demon beasts around it. Subaru gritted his teeth and drew his sword. There was no time to hesitate.
"Well," Subaru muttered grimly as he ran forward to meet the oncoming tide, "I might be resetting again, it would seem."
He charged into the fray, pushing his mana through his body to enhance his speed and strength. His sword became a blur, slicing through the beasts with precision and ferocity. One fell to a clean slash, its body split in two. Another latched onto his side, its fangs tearing into his flesh and ripping out a chunk of muscle. Subaru cried out in pain but swung his blade with all his might, killing the creature in a single, powerful strike.
The pain was excruciating, but there was no time to dwell on it. Two more beasts pounced on him, their claws and teeth tearing at his arms and legs. Screaming in defiance, Subaru lashed out, his blade cutting through fur and flesh. Yet, no matter how many he felled, more surged forward, their glowing red eyes gleaming with relentless hunger.
It wasn't long before the tide overwhelmed him. He fell to the ground as five beasts dogpiled on top of him, gnashing and clawing with a feverish intensity that only monsters could muster.
Let it end! Subaru thought, his body aflame with agony. If I am going to die, then let me die already!
"What kind of attitude is that?" a voice suddenly rang out in his mind, smooth and dark with a hint of irritation. "I'm almost tempted to go back to sleep and let you die, but I'd rather not let the Witch get her paws on you again."
"Begone, Kuroi!" Subaru shouted. The words came from his lips, but they were not his own.
In an instant, a surge of raw magical energy erupted from his gate. Black flames shot out from his body, consuming the demon dogs around him in an infernal blaze. Their howls of pain echoed into the night before they were reduced to nothing but ash.
Staggering to his feet, Subaru swayed, his mutilated body barely holding him upright. Despite the searing pain, he moved, his limbs obeying his commands as though guided by something other than his own will.
"What…" Subaru gasped, his vision blurring.
In the darkness ahead, a shadowy figure materialized. Its form was indistinct, like a living silhouette. "Don't expect me to save you," it said, its tone calm but laced with disdain. "I have little strength to spare. But I hold a deep hatred for these spawns. I would hate for my vessel to be killed by them, even if the Witch would send you back through the river of time."
"What—" Subaru started, his mind reeling, but the figure cut him off.
"My time is limited, Subaru. I can already feel myself drifting back into my stupor. I am only awake now because of my hatred for these abominations. If I thought you could handle this horde, I wouldn't have stirred at all. Now…"
The figure extended its shadowy hand, and Subaru felt a sudden weight in his own palm. "Summon Darkness," the figure commanded.
Subaru watched as a shadowy mass formed in his hand. For a moment, it was formless, but then it solidified into a bow of striking craftsmanship. Its dark wood was lined with intricate patterns of silver starlight, and its string shimmered like woven moonlight. The weapon felt weightless, yet powerful, as though it pulsed with a life of its own.
Subaru was transfixed, the bow radiating an energy that made his blood sing with newfound strength. The beasts, sensing its power, recoiled instinctively, their steps hesitant as they growled and bared their fangs. Without thinking, Subaru flexed his hand, and a black arrow materialized, its tip gleaming with deadly precision.
Knocking the arrow, Subaru drew back the string, his eyes narrowing as he aimed at the glowing pup at the forefront. "Begone!" he roared, releasing the arrow.
The black bolt flew faster than the eye could follow, striking the pup dead-center. The explosion of power that followed was devastating, turning the creature and the ground around it into a charred crater. The shockwave sent the remaining beasts fleeing into the darkness, their cries of terror fading into the night.
As the last of the beasts disappeared, Subaru felt his legs give out beneath him. The bow vanished from his grip, dissolving into the shadows as if it had never existed. Collapsing to the ground, Subaru's vision dimmed, and his breathing grew shallow.
"We'll meet again, Subaru," the shadowy figure said, its voice fading into the ether. "But for now, I must rest. Until next time."
The last thing Subaru saw before succumbing to unconsciousness was Rem rushing toward him, her voice calling his name, laced with panic and relief.
What… was that? Subaru thought, before darkness claimed him.