A/N: We're back with this week's regular release! I hope you all enjoyed this week's surprise chapter that was dropped. This is the chapter the real action begins!
And for anyone curious, Rem is currently dressed like her "Nagomi Style" Kimono Figure if you want a real, actual visualization of what she's wearing througout this chapter.
Chapter 56: The Endless Eight – Part 2
Finding themselves back in their shared guest room, there were two bedrooms, one for YN and Subaru while the other was reserved for Rem and Emilia. Off the shared space though, was a balcony.
Sliding the door shut behind them, YN looked around to see if anyone could hear their conversation, namely seeing if anyone was on the nearby balconies. While not visible to them, Rem and YN could hear the sound of work being done to prepare the finishing touches for the festival.
Leaning over the solid wood railing, they were at least two floors above the street below which saw moderate traffic from passerby and carts being taken to and from the festival area. With the evening sun beginning to set, lanterns and street lamps were beginning to be lit.
Rem: What was so important that YN-kun couldn't tell Rem anywhere but here?
Sighing, YN rubbed the back of his neck. He was hoping this wouldn't be a large tangent but also knew that Rem needed to be informed, as it was highly suspect.
YN: Truth be told, it started back when Subaru asked you about the architecture of the city.
Rem: The Kararagian style?
YN: Well, I don't mean to be rude, but it's not really Kararagian...
Tilting her head, Rem didn't understand what YN meant by that.
Looking out below, YN watched the shuffle of people as he explained.
YN: Back in the old world, the country Subaru comes from has architecture just like this, but it's very, very old. I would probably venture to guess anywhere from a hundred to four hundred years ago maybe? There are very few buildings left that look like this.
With silence between them, Rem also looked down at the people below as she thought of what YN meant.
Rem: Is YN-kun suggesting that these buildings came from Subaru-kun's country?
YN: It's not as simple as that, I'm afraid.
Shaking his head, YN explained.
YN: That Hoshin guy? I think he's from Subaru's home country, but just from a very long time ago.
Realizing what that meant, Rem quickly figured out the rest.
Rem: YN-kun is saying Hoshin might have come from across the Great Waterfall like he did? Except from very long ago?
Nodding, YN confirmed his theory with Rem.
YN: Yes. And using his other-world knowledge and technology, made himself powerful.
Putting a hand to her chin, it made sense. Historically, the Kararagi lands were vastly divided territories, and the terrain and weather made it hard for an outside power to conquer the land.
For a man to come from the Wilderness like the tales say, and unite the lands... Rem has a hard time imagining how he could do it without having some sort of ability or knowledge like YN-kun would have...
YN: I imagine he probably came at a time when technology was just a bit more advanced then what Kararagi was.
Rem: Then YN-kun and Subaru-kun came much later, did they not? Surely that would make them much more powerful?
Shaking his head, YN didn't figure that was accurate.
YN: I don't think so... Even with cell phones and cars, we don't have the means, nor the skills to really thrive here like Hoshin might have. He probably had a lot better practical skill set and applicable knowledge that was more compatible with the times...
Putting a hand on his shoulder, Rem gave YN a sympathetic smile.
Rem: Rem thinks she understands. Being from so far in the future, it's almost a disadvantage at times.
Nodding at what Rem said, she wrapped her arms around his same arm and rested the side of her head on him.
With their being another air of silence between them as they each thought, Rem formed a question in her mind for YN, one garnered from this newfound insight on a historical figure, but also from eavesdropping on an earlier conversation. Looking up at him from his side, Rem hesitantly asked it.
Rem: Does... does YN-kun or Subaru-kun intend to do any of things Hoshin might have done? Rem overheard them talking about various inventions that could be brought to this world...
Hearing the blue haired girl's worry and apprehension on her voice, YN turned and put his hands on her shoulders.
YN: We flirted with the theory of sharing a few simple creature comforts and maybe the idea of introducing some concepts as a source of income should we need it.
Looking downward, it seemed his words hadn't done anything in the way of calming the poor girl's emotions.
Rem: YN-kun doesn't want to make this world like his own?
Bringing Rem into a full fledged hug, YN stroked hair around the bow she still had attached to it.
YN: If this world could create such a kind and beautiful person like you are Rem, I'm better off leaving things alone.
Thoroughly surprised at his answer, Rem was shocked. She believed what YN said, she couldn't doubt him, not anymore at least after settling foot into his memories.
Yet still not understanding why, Rem stuttered out words, seeking an explanation.
Rem: W-Why though? YN-kun d-doesn't want the same fame and success Hoshin had?
Coming out of the embrace, YN put his hands on Rem's soft, round cheeks, holding the most precious thing he had.
YN: Rem, the only thing I want in this world, is you.
Seeing a small amount of water build up in her eyes, Rem tried responding.
Rem: B-But—!
YN: Don't you remember? I told you no one could offer me anything more than what you could. They could never hope to. And that includes any opportunity that I come across.
Not wishing to have tears fall on YN's Yukata or on her own kimono, Rem stepped back and wiped the water from her eyes. Smiling as a blush formed on her face, Rem answered back.
Rem: Why must YN-kun always manage to say things that will make Rem's heart flutter as much as it can?
YN: Because, just being around you always does the same thing to me.
Taking his hands in hers, Rem softly spoke as she looked down at them.
Rem: Rem isn't sure what she's done to deserve such person in her life, and she knows she's said this before but—
Looking up, the maid gave YN a smile so beautiful it dwarfed the elaborate kimono she wore by comparison.
Rem: —Rem is so very glad she met YN-kun.
Leaning his head against her's, YN closed his eyes and spoke.
YN: I don't think anyone else can ever say they have a relationship like ours... With so much having happened... for better, or for worse. I think that's why it's so special, don't you?
Rem: Yes...
As the two moved to embrace each other, they heard a commotion come from down below. Hearing familiar voices with it, the two broke apart and leaned over the railing.
Emilia (distanced): Subaru! Be careful!
Subaru (distanced): I was! It's not my fault I was just almost run over!
Seeing what had just unfolded, it appeared that one of the running taxi carts on the street had narrowly avoided colliding with Subaru, causing it to topple over.
Thankfully though, it appeared the only thing the cart carried was delivery of some sort, meaning no passenger had been injured.
Getting up off the ground, the man who pulled the cart, who appeared to be a hulking form of a man, made his displeasure known.
? (Distanced): You brat! You're gonna pay for that!
Subaru (Distanced): Pay? For what? You almost hitting me?!
? (Distanced): Why you—!
? (Distanced): Is there a problem here?
Hearing a new, familiar voice come out from the building right below them, all eyes turned to them.
Julio (Distanced): That's not the proper way to address the guest of honor's confidant, is it?
Looking over to Rem, YN stepped back off, away from the railing.
YN: We should probably head down there and see if we can help defuse things.
Knowing that this fell under her responsibilities of being a maid, Rem nodded in agreement and followed YN off the balcony, through their guest space, and down the stairs to the front.
Arriving on the scene, most of the situation seemed to have resolved itself. With most of the cargo loaded up back into the runner's cart, Julio set the last bit into the compartment, and slapped the door shut.
Proceeding along, the runner took his cart down the street as Subaru continued to dust himself off.
Readjusting his large glasses, Julio approached the four that now stood on the sidewalk.
Julio: Ah, YN-dono, Rem-san, you've come down to meet Subaru-dono and Emilia-sama.
Rem: Yes. We heard quite the commotion and came to offer our assistance if needed.
Holding up a hand, Julio waved off any concern.
Julio: Everything is fine. No worries there. But, it's getting a bit late, how are you all taking to your outfits? Any last minute alterations that need to be made?
Patting themselves and stretching a bit more, all four of them concluded that their Yukata and kimono were adequately sized.
Emilia: I think we're all happy with our fit, yes.
Rem: Thank you again for your hospitality, Julio-sama.
Bowing out of respect for their newly received clothes, Julio folded his hands together.
Julio: Excellent. Now, it is getting late, so if you would like to partake in some of the early festival activities before Emilia-sama needs to attend her speech, now would be the time.
Subaru: Hey, that sounds like fun! What do you guys say?
Emilia: I could reeeeally take my mind off doing the speech for a moment, so I'd like to go.
Rem: Rem doesn't see an issue with it either.
YN: Sure.
Subaru: I guess that settles it. So, where do we head, Julio-san?
Smiling at the request, Julio faced the building YN and Rem had just exited from.
Julio: If you just head around the building, it's right behind it. Since the festival requires so much space, we host it on the river's flood banks. But, since it is Fire Season, the river is quite low, so the ground there has been dry for many months now.
Subaru: Alright then, let's go have some fun!
As the four set off, Julio called out once more.
Julio: At nightfall, the gong will ring. Emilia-sama. Please be ready and up on stage before the next gong hit. You won't have much time between those times.
Giving him a nervous smile in return, Emilia bowed, trying to show off her best manners.
Emilia: Yes. I'll be sure to be ready.
It was clear Emilia was rather nervous that she'd have to be the center of attention in a place she was ultimately a stranger in. As Julio returned inside, Rem approached Emilia.
Rem: Emilia-sama, are you prepared for your speech?
Giving a hesitant nod, Emilia answered.
Emilia: It's not a fully memorized one, but Puck had me practice with Ram in remembering what points to bring up. It was actually Ram who decided to have me speak naturally and not from anything written down. Puck agreed and said it sounded better.
Imagining how it might sound forced if Emilia were to recite something from memory, YN agreed with Ram's suggestion, hearing a "Heh! Of course my idea is the best!" conjured up on the back of his mind.
Floating out from her hair, the little cat yawned.
Puck: I know my little Lia will do great. I am a bit upset they made the festival so late at night, so unfortunately, this will have to be something she does on her own.
Remembering Puck's nighttime limitation, he slowly floated downward into Emilia's hands.
Puck: I'm just so tired... I'll at least stick around to see what the festival looks like but after that, it's lights out for me.
Looking around, Puck spied Subaru and Rem ahead of Emilia and decided to make small talk with them.
Puck: Oh wow Subaru, you clean up well in a Yukata.
Going to lead the way, Subaru seemed to drive the group forward, making their way around the building as him, Rem, and Puck all talked.
Behind them was Emilia, and just to her flank was YN. Seeing how the conversation had left them, Emilia slowed her pace to meet YN's.
Emilia: A-Are you excited for the festival, YN?
Surprised to see Emilia paying attention to him like this, YN answered as formally as he could.
YN: Yes, Emilia-sama. I think it will be quite the joyous evening to—
Emilia: YN.
Looking forward as she spoke his name, there was stiffness to her voice as she said that, as if genuinely off put by something.
Turning her head, Emilia gave him a stern, yet weak look.
Emilia: Please... don't be so stiff, not now at least. Especially with all the formalities coming up.
Softening his own expression and putting his hands behind his head, he nodded, agreeing to Emilia's request. He realized that at this moment, Emilia must feel rather isolated and alone in her position.
Emilia: Thank you...
Walking in silence for a moment, YN did eventually turn to answer her question like she'd hoped.
YN: —But yes. I am excited to see what the festival is like.
Turning with a smile to YN, Emilia concurred.
Emilia: Me too... Also, YN—?
Putting a hand to her chest, she continued.
Emilia: —I know you probably get tired of me asking all the time, so I'll assume that your gate still feels fine? You haven't noticed anything?
While not surprised the topic of his gate had come up again, YN was nonetheless perplexed how she had gone about asking in a different way.
YN: Yeah, that's about right.
Emilia: Then if you feel fine...
Seeing her face and tips of her ears become slightly red, Emilia seemed to struggle to get her words out as she looked down at the ground while walking
Emilia: —would you...
With her lips contorting at the pressure of herself, Emilia turned to look back to YN.
Emilia: —would you... consider being my second? U-Up on the stage I mean!
More confused by what "second" meant, YN tilted his head, as he pondered what she had just asked, he was silent in response.
YN: — — —
Emilia: Umm—
YN: ...What do you mean by 'second?'
Looking back down at the ground in front of her, Emilia poked her fingers together in the residual nervousness she felt.
Emilia: Normally, when any of the other Royal Selection candidates have been called to speak before the regency council, they have their second. For all the others, it's usually their sworn Knight. It's only them who are permitted to speak alongside and stand with the candidate, either to speak on their behalf when they don't know something, or to simply inspire confidence for their candidate.
Lowering her closest arm, Emilia held it with her opposite hand, as if trying to comfort herself.
Emilia: For me, it's either been Ram or Roswaal who have stepped in, depending on who was available, or what the circumstances were... But since neither of them are here and Puck will be asleep...
Looking over to YN, he could see the near desperation in her eyes.
Emilia: I was hoping you could be my second... Even if just for tonight.
Knowing what this must have meant for her, YN wasn't entirely sure he was the best choice for her in this matter.
YN: Emilia, I don't know if—
Emilia: — — —
Seeing her look down in disappointment immediately to his words, he cut himself off. Thinking he should offer another solution, YN changed what he went to say.
YN: W-What about Subaru? He's the one who believes in you the most, right? I'm not saying I don't, but to him, you have his utmost confidence.
Emilia: And that's why I think you're a better choice. A knight—, a second should know their candidates weaknesses. Only then can they truly step in and offer assistance. Subaru has too much confidence in me.
Knowing the half elf had a point, it seemed as if this interaction was turning into an argument on why he shouldn't be her second, not that he should be.
YN: T-Then why not Rem? She's known you much longer than I have.
In rare form, Emilia shrugged.
Emilia: That's the other part to being a second though... That person also needs to play off the strengths of the candidate as well, and make sure they have a level head and are calm. Rem is aware of my faults... They are rather obvious... But me and Rem don't have the kind of relationship where she can stop being so formal, it's her job after all to be that way... The constant formalities don't help at all.
Clasping her hands together, Emilia pleaded one last time.
Emilia: That's why I'm asking... Please, YN, will you—
Subaru: Oi! YN! I need you to come look at this!
Having rounded the building and now standing at the top of what YN assumed to be the berm to the glassy flood area for the river, Subaru called back to him.
Seeing this as an opportunity to delay answering Emilia's request and maybe strategize with the person he believed was more suitable, YN held a single finger up to Emilia, as if asking for a moment but also acknowledging her request.
Proceeding up the embankment to where Subaru, Rem, and Puck resided, YN saw the glow of the festival radiate onto them with a warm light and saw it continue up to the cloud cover above.
As if reaching the horizon line that hid the sun itself, YN arrived at the top of the berm with the rest, Emilia following closely behind.
Seeing a somewhat concerned look on Subaru's face, YN turned to look below, letting his eyes adjust to the stark difference in contrast.
With the light breaking down into many colors, the scene was painted for him. On the lush grass field was a large display of tents, stalls, and other structures. All around them were lanterns of various colors, spread around and hung by wire all over the place. The hum of people talking, children laughing, and games being played filled the air with merriment.
But what drew YN's immediate attention, and what Subaru had obviously called him for, wasn't the stage that Emilia was set to speak at. It was another structure.
Even with its height as they stood on the embankment, YN saw its simple construction. A single tower at the center of the entire festival with several colorful banners draped down its side. Hosting a gong at the top, it's many wires of lanterns string to its railings that spread down from it and across the festival.
Looking at Subaru, he could see the serious look in his eyes, he knew exactly what he was thinking.
YN: It's a... It's a O-Bon festival.
Nodding resolutely to what YN said, Subaru spoke in a low voice in return.
Subaru: This is all way too coincidental...
And he was right. The architecture, the Yukata, the kimono, the koy pond, the man pulled carts... But an O-Bon Festival too? The entirely of this was far too suspect for both YN and Subaru's likefullness.
Reaching the top of the embankment now, standing in between YN and Subaru, Emilia broke the tension in the air with her carefree observation of the festival below.
Emilia: Oh! It's so pretty!
Almost thankful that she did, YN was at least glad he was now, for the time being at least, spared from giving her an answer to her request.
Yawning as he fell into Emilia's awaiting palms, Puck wiped his eyes with his little grey paws.
Puck: I'd sure like to explore it all with you Lia, but it's time for me to get some shut eye... *Phewah!*
As the gem on Emilia's necklace glowed, Puck dematerialized.
Emilia: Goodnight, Puck.
Clasping her hand shut, Emilia turned and looked back and forth between Subaru and YN, reminiscent of how a small child might.
Emilia: We don't have much time, but we should try and see as much of the festival as we can, right?
Turning to Rem who was looking down at the festival with an air of amazement, YN asked her opinion on what they should do, hoping she would take a hint.
YN: Well, Rem? You seem pretty intrigued by that area down there, why don't you and I go check out that half of the festival, and Subaru and Emilia can check out the other?
Nodding, Rem took YN's hand and held it up between them, winking at him.
Rem: YN-kun will have to keep up with Rem then.
Turning to Subaru, he nodded in reply, silently agreeing to the plan to split the group in two, a mutual understanding of YN helping Subaru to get alone time with Emilia.
Taking the first step down the hill, Subaru windmilled his arm in an effort to get everyone moving.
Subaru: C'mon! We don't have all night! We won't have much of an opportunity to do this after Emilia-tan's speech! She'll be swarmed with fans and admirers after all.
As the four descended the hill, they each hoped to enjoy themselves as much as they could, Emilia especially, knowing she was going to take center stage soon.
Reaching the bottom of the embankment, the four of them found themselves on level ground once more as they walked across the tall grass towards the festival.
Arriving at the outer outcrop of stalls and tents, the smell of cooking meat and sweets filled the air as well as the harmony of faint music being drowned out by the hum of the crowd.
As both Emilia and Rem looked upon everything with eyes shining, Subaru immediately saw something that caught his eye.
Subaru: Oh! I can't believe they have it here!
Pointing off at a distant booth, YN was surprised Subaru could see whatever he saw so far off.
Emilia: Wha-what is it?
Subaru: Emilia-tan! Have you ever tried goldfish scooping?
Emilia: 'Goldfish scooping'... No, I haven't.
Subaru: We gotta try that first then! I'll show you how good I am and win you all the fish your heart desires!
Taking Emilia by the hand, Subaru led her away, rather quickly as well.
Emilia: Subaru! Wait! I still don't know what a goldfish is!
Blending into the crowd and out of sight, YN was left alone with Rem standing just outside the festival still. Looking over the blue haired girl, the light from the lanterns shone beautifully across her face and reflected deeply in her azure eyes.
Noticing she was being looked at, Rem blushed slightly.
Rem: YN-kun is staring at Rem with such imposing eyes... is something wrong with her outfit?
YN: Huh— oh! No. Nothing at all, it's as beautiful as ever. This lighting just makes you look incredibly gorgeous is all.
Tightening the grip she had on YN's hand ever so slightly as acknowledgement for his compliment, Rem smiled brightly in return.
Rem: As much as Rem enjoys it, she feels like YN-kun might regret it if he spends all of his time doting on Rem.
Pulling him the direction of the festival, Rem led the way forward.
YN: I-I can, if you want!
Rem: Our time before Emilia-sama needs to take the stage is limited, and YN-kun can dote on his Rem whenever he wants to.
YN: Fine, I guess I'll owe you then.
Rem: Rem eagerly awaits all of YN-kun's pent up complements then.
With Rem fully propositioned for some extra quality alone time later when they returned from their trip, the two walked hand in hand through the maze of stalls and tents, enjoying what the festival had to offer.
While not being able to keep his eyes off the oni as the lantern's lights danced on her dress and hair, one thing he kept coming back to was the incredibly cute bow tie she had on the back of her round head.
It just looks so cute!
However, as he admired it, Rem had seemed to notice him staring again, but as she turned her head to speak with, something else caught her attention past YN.
Looking to see what it was, there was only one stall she could be admiring.
While simple in its layout, the proprietor of the booth sat surrounded by two boards of products on either side of them. And on the boards, hung many different variants, sizes, and designs of masks. All of them were incredibly different in color and idea.
Seeing the maid was intrigued by the idea of them, YN took the lead this time, walking her over to the booth.
YN: If you want a mask Rem, all you gotta do is ask.
Rem: Rem would very much like one...
Almost as if embarrassed that YN knew what she wanted, he smiled at her bashfulness.
YN: Go ahead, pick one out, I'll pay for it.
Stepping forward, Rem looked over the masks, one by one, trying to decide which one she should pick. Finally settling on one, YN approached the proprietor of the booth, and pinched a series of coins from an inside pocket of his Yukata.
This had been the last of the money YN had come across in the time following spending all his pay on the necklace of Rem's he had purchased for her birthday present. Emilia had been hard-nosed on him not spending his own money on this trip, just in case he needed it in a situation where he was away from the fund Roswaal had sent along. But since they had managed to arrive in Saluzzo without any problems, YN figured there wasn't a problem spending it on Rem now.
With a nod from the booth owner, Rem took the mask she so desired, and placed it on the side of her head, between her face and the bow on the back of her hair.
Giving YN a quick twirl of herself, her dress raised ever so slightly as the wind passed under it, giving him another complete view of her beauty, this time with the mask added.
Rem: How does it look?
YN: Even cuter than before.
Taking his hand again, the two walked side by side, the mask unfortunately looking right at him with this angle.
*Sigh*
While slightly off put by its... odd design, at this side of Rem, he could at least continue to see her one exposed eye from her bangs.
After walking around for a while longer, Rem turned to YN.
Rem: YN-kun, don't you think we should wait by the stage for Emilia-sama and Subaru-kun? We should be easily located before it's time.
YN: Yeah, I think we've seen enough, and you're right. As smart as ever, you are.
Giving the girl a headpat as reward for her suggestion, the two proceeded inwards to the heart of the festival, conveniently finding a bench by the tower to sit and wait for the return of their companions.
Sitting on the bench, Rem shifted her mask so she could comfortably lean on YN's shoulder as they watched the people go by and the games around them be played.
Seeing a girl wearing a nearly identical kimono as Emilia's, YN remembered what she had asked of him. Still unsure of what to say though, he figured he should consult the person he knew the best.
YN: Hey Rem, I think there's something I gotta tell you.
Leaning off his shoulder, Rem heard the hint of concern in his voice. Taking his hand into both of hers, Rem did so to inspire courage in him. Tilting her head with a smile, Rem replied.
Rem: And just whatever would that be?
Scratching the back of his head, he looked around nervously as he spoke.
YN: Well, on the way here, Emilia asked if I could be her 'second' when she goes to take the stage tonight...
Seeing Rem's eyes light up, it wasn't the expression he had hoped she would make.
Rem: That is very astonishing news! Rem is very proud of YN-kun for having worked hard enough to gain Emilia-sama's trust like that. He must feel very honored.
I appreciate her supportiveness, but I wish she'd be a little more jealous over me... Just a little bit...
YN: Maybe I should... I just don't feel like I'm the right choice. Subaru is much more devoted to her, it should be his opportunity. I told that to Emilia and she said because I'm not like Subaru, I would be more keen to notice her weaknesses and supplement it with my own strengths. I also said I didn't agree because I don't have the level of confidence in her that Subaru has, but she thinks that makes me a better second for her...
Sitting up straight, Rem nodded to what YN said.
Rem: Rem fully agrees with Emilia-sama's reasoning. YN-kun would make a fine second to her.
Shaking his head, he didn't want to tell Rem she was "wrong," just that he wouldn't think it was right. Not to Emilia, not to Subaru, and certainly not to Rem.
YN: I just feel like Subaru would have much better potential for stuff like this... But honestly, Rem?
Seeing the worry on his face, Rem leaned in and gave his hand a slight squeeze to give him the resolve to say something he was clearly struggling with.
YN: —It just wouldn't seem fair to you... To put someone else in priority even near to you. You deserve much better than that for everything you do for me... I don't ever want to give you a reason to feel a drop of doubt.
Rem: YN-kun should know Rem isn't bothered by such trivial things. Rem knows where YN-kun's heart lies at the end of the day. When he told Rem all those wonderful things he feels when we're together, she never doubted him at all since Rem will never doubt her hero ever again.
She's still not going back on that... I know she still sometimes struggles with everything involved with looking back on my memories, but the devotion she has from that makes me feel guilty at times...
YN: I— I still don't know what I should do...
Rem: Rem thinks YN-kun should try it once for Emilia-sama, and give it his best chance. If it doesn't work out, and if YN-kun isn't comfortable with it, then he doesn't need to do it again.
Sighing in agreement, YN took Rem's suggestion.
YN: I'll do it, but only because you've also given me your blessing on this matter. I still think Subaru is a better choice though. But for this, and hopefully to help Emilia's nervousness go down, I'll give it a try.
Rem: Rem believes you will do an amazing job.
Staring out across the festival once more as the bow-headed oni rested her head back on his shoulder, YN monologued his thoughts out loud.
YN: Sometimes I wish there were two of me and that maybe the other one could do this kind of stuff I don't feel comfortable doing.
Sitting back up and looking at YN wide eyed, Rem voiced her comments on YN's thoughts.
Rem: Rem would cherish both YN-kun's equally, but she also struggles to think how she could contain herself in the presence of two YN-kuns~~.
As she finished, her legs began to fidget slightly as she continued to sit on the bench and her face turned a warm shade of red.
Slightly amused by Rem's reaction, YN sort of understood where she came from on this one.
YN: Yeah, I don't know what I would do with two Rems either... I'd be a very lucky person to have one Rem on each side of me.
Rem: Hmm... Until Rem can find a way to make two of herself, maybe Rem can have Nee-sama help make that a reality.
YN: Uh— Woah, Rem, let's not get to far ahead of ourselves here—
?: We're back!
Hearing a familiar voice at a time YN could not have needed a better chance for a distraction as Rem began to tilt her head in question to his immediate opposition.
Looking over, the duo of Subaru and Emilia had arrived back.
Having been the one to announce their return, Subaru waved as they walked up to the two on the bench.
Rem: Subaru-kun, Emilia-sama, Rem hopes you both had as wonderful of as her and YN-kun did.
Emilia: We did! Here, try one of these!
Suddenly sticking a small paper plate in YN's face, his eyes struggled to focus on it at first. But as they did, four little brown balls with tiny, singular sticks pointing upward out of them sat in a neat row. Seeing as there had been maybe close to six originally, YN was surprised to recognize them
Emilia: There are—! Uhh, these are... Oh what were they called again? Subaru said he recognized them...
Subaru: Takoyaki.
Emilia: No, but it was something close to that.
Subaru: —Hk!
Having been denied what even YN knew was the food item's rightful name, he silently gave Subaru thoughts of sympathy.
Man, I'm glad Rem knows everything... I don't know if I could live in Subaru's reality sometimes.
Emilia: Anywaaaaay, here, try one.
Taking one of the offered morsels, YN looked to Rem.
YN: Here, take half, I'll take half.
Nodding to YN's offer, he fed Rem the tiny bite on a stick. Waiting for her response before taking his own, it was well worth it.
Putting a hand to her cheek, Rem chewed the luscious bite.
Rem: Hmmmmmm.
Taking a bite of his own, YN was surprised as well.
It's like Takoyaki, but it's definitely different. I don't taste the octopus.
Remembering that this world probably didn't have an overabundance of seafood due to almost no oceans, YN concluded that this must be the case.
Finishing his bite, the four of them felt a sudden shake throughout their bodies as the air filled with a massive rumble.
Looking it up, it was clear what the source of this sound was.
The gong had been struck.
As the echo and vibrations ceased, the air went silent again before the chatter of the crowd around them picked back up and resumed.
Giving YN a worried look, Emilia silently asked her request once more, hoping for relief of some sort to the anxiety she felt building knowing she would be on stage shortly.
Slumping his shoulders, YN looked to Rem for final approval on the matter. Only giving a stern expression that was meant to encourage him, Rem continued her support of the idea as well.
Giving in, YN nodded to Emilia, instantly seeing her expression brighten and hope fill her amethyst eyes. Taking him by the sleeve Emilia hurried him over to the stage's back entrance to help prepare immediately.
Subaru: E-Emilia-tan? Where are you taking YN?
Rem: Good luck, Emilia-sama, YN-kun!
Subaru: 'Good luck' with what?! Doesn't Emilia-tan have her speech soon?
Smiling at the confused black haired boy, Rem explained.
Rem: Emilia-sama asked YN-kun to be her second in the absence of Roswaal-sama or Nee-sama.
Subaru: Her 'second?!' Why that two timing bastard... Rem, how can you be okay with this?
Rem: YN-kun had a similar expectation that Rem would be bothered by this, but she is not, for she knows her YN-kun is for her, and her only. But, YN-kun had suggested Subaru-kun should have that role, yet Emilia-sama insisted, and Rem agreed.
Slumping his shoulders, Subaru lamented.
Subaru: I don't know what hurts worse... That I wasn't Emilia-tan's first choice, or that I wasn't wanted after being suggested.
Rem: YN-kun wasn't very much in support of the idea, but Rem is hopeful his presence will assure Emilia-sama some new found confidence.
Subaru: *Sigh* If it's only because she's nervous I guess I can understand. But next time will be different!
Being pulled along by the half elf, YN was dragged up the rear, curtained off section of the stage area where a few helpers and operators of the stage were busy scrambling about.
Eyeing a familiar face overseeing all the commotion, Emilia brought YN over to them, as if showing they were on duty.
Emilia: Julio, we're ready when you are.
Hearing the confidence in her voice, Julio nodded before giving a seemingly troubled look to YN.
Julio: That is excellent to hear, Emilia-sama, but YN-dono, might I ask why you are back here and not in the audience?
Emilia: YN agreed to be my second for this appearance.
Interrupting before YN could answer for himself, Emilia explained his presence.
Julio: O-Oh, so he'll be up there with you... Interesting, that works...
Putting a few fingers to his chin, Julio nodded his head at the notion. Clapping his paws together, he finalized the idea.
Julio: Well then, it seems you two have everything you need. I will be in the first row by Subaru-dono and Rem-san. I hope your speech is an inspirational one, Emilia-sama.
Bowing as he left, Julio retreated to the audience awaiting Emilia.
Turning to YN, Emilia's face had turned a bright red, unbefitting of her usual pale complexion and silver hair.
Emilia: Any moment now...
YN: You haven't forgotten anything Puck had you remember?
Shaking her head, Emilia seemed uncharacteristically confident as she awaited her queue to enter out onto the stage.
With a second loud clang and the vibrations it made filling the air, the gong sounded for its second time, signaling the beginning of the festival's main message.
Sparing no extra second, stepping out from the curtained area, Emilia walked down the long, narrow stage to greet the crowd that had gathered.
With only a few hushed voices making noise, it seemed everyone in attendance had arrived by the second gong hit to hear Emilia speak.
Following her out, and only a few paces behind her, YN could feel hundreds of pairs of eyes now focusing in on him before they all returned to Emilia.
Oh man, this is some pressure I hadn't anticipated...
Feeling a bead of sweat run down his forehead, YN couldn't imagine the stress this had seemingly imposed on Emilia.
Thankfully it's not me who has to speak as well.
As Emilia reached the end of the runway section of the stage, she stopped, prompting YN to as well, only a step or two behind her. Straightening his posture as well as he could and placing his hands behind his back, YN did his best to look as "official" as he could.
Looking down, YN could see Subaru, Rem, Julio, and a few of whom he believed were some of the village elders of various types of Demi-human.
With each giving him a nod, YN returned a solitary one in exchange.
Clearing her throat, Emilia had the crowd go silent. Since there was no way to amplify her voice, she would be forced to speak loudly in an effort to project her words to everyone in attendance.
Emilia: Everyone! Thank you for taking time out of your busy day and your time spent enjoying yourselves at this festival to come listen to my proclamation.
Bowing after she spoke, Emilia spoke up once more.
Emilia: I would also like to thank the village elders of Saluzzo and Julio for allowing me the opportunity to speak with you all.
Pausing for a brief moment, she continued.
Emilia: First, I would like to introduce myself. My name is—
*Muffled crash*
Hearing a distant crash of some sort, most of the crowd turned and looked in the direction of the noise, also halting Emilia's words.
Hearing no residual sounds, calls for help, or any sort of sign as to what it was, people disregarded the noise and returned to giving Emilia her attention.
Emilia: I-I would like to introduce myself. M-My name is E-Emilia, and I would like to announce that I am the fourth candidate to be King in the—
*CRASH!*
As Emilia spoke, another massive explosion of noise sounded, erupting several of the nearby tents and stalls of the festival up into the air, shattering their wood structures and sending many of the lanterns flying, causing several small fires.
Upsetting a large amount of dust, debris, and now a growing amount of smoke, the cause of the commotion still couldn't be identified. As the crowd shuffled away from the debris field with panicked voices, YN instinctively stepped in front of Emilia in case anything were to happen.
Is this some sort of retaliatory attack? Meant to target Emilia?
While staring at the debris and wondering what should be done, YN figured Emilia's speech could not go on. And while it seemed no one was injured, YN's thoughts immediately went to what the cause of the upheaval was.
I didn't see anyone over there, but what caused that? Some kind of cooking oil? Magic maybe?
As YN pondered briefly, the answer to his questions moved out of the dust, and into the light of the remaining lanterns.
A grotesque, dark, multi-armed behemoth of some sort stepped out from the concealment of dust and smoke, cracking and crushing whatever piece of debris it stepped on. Giving a solitary grunt, the crowd turned into a massive panic, trying to evacuate away from whatever this monster was.
What the HELL is that thing?!
Turning its attention to Emilia and YN who remained on the stage, it's face was odd and contorted, unlike how any normal face should be with eyes and a mouth.
YN: Emilia! We should—!
Before he could finish, she stepped in front of him, hand raised, and ice crystals generated.
Emilia: Why have you come here to disrupt this peaceful festival?
Watching as the silver haired half elf boldly stood her ground against the intimidating beast, YN gulped down the large lump in his throat.
YN: Emilia... W-We should run...
Emilia: I won't.
Coming up behind the two while still on the ground, Subaru lightly tapped the stage, getting only YN's attention.
Subaru: Emilia-tan! This isn't safe, we need to get out of here!
Emilia: Then who is going to deal with this? No, I can't leave, if I do, there's no telling how many innocent people might be slaughtered.
Subaru: You're going to get slaughtered too if we don't—
Emilia: Subaru. Take Rem and help everyone get to safety. You too, YN—
Interrupting Emilia, the multi-armed monster charged, closing the distance fast.
Sending out her ice crystal, they were hurled towards the incoming beast. Using one of its lower four arms, it simply batted away the incoming crystals.
Ice looks like it won't work... Then maybe—!
Pouring his mana into his palm, YN readied himself.
This better work!
With the heat in his palms now peaking into his finger tips, he projected his spell outward.
YN: El Jiwald!
Shooting out five distinct and piercing beams of light, YN felt all of his mana escape his gate and go into his spell.
Bringing in all four arms as it continued its advance, where as before it simply batted away Emilia's ice as if it's arms were made of steel, this time, the beams of light seemed to melt into the beast's body, as if YN had shot straight into a puddle of mud.
YN: Damn it!
As Emilia readied more ice crystals, one of the beast's lower arms reached out, and massively stretched in length, heading right towards YN.
There's nothing I can do!
Bracing for impact, he fully expected to be swatted off to the side, off the stage, and away from Emilia, leaving her vulnerable.
With the arm rapidly approaching, Emilia jumped out of its way, expecting YN to do the same but—
His magic! He's fatigued, he won't be able to react in time!
Regretting her oversight, Emilia could only watch as her momentum continued to carry her away, leaving YN to his fate.
As the hand reached him, rather than forming a fist and knocking him away, it's palm opened, grabbing him instead.
Shit!
As the hand closed around him, his arms and upper legs were restrained. Feeling the arm retract closer to the beast once more, one person refused to let this happen.
Rem: Don't you touch him!
Hearing Rem call out in anger. A sudden metal impact could be heard slamming into the arm that held YN. Seeing the familiar profile of Rem's morningstar, it lodged itself into the beast's arm.
With the beast grunting in what could only be described as "discomfort," it used its opposite upper arm to grab the chain and pulled hard, propelling Rem towards itself.
Airborne, Rem raised her arms upwards, and her feet out, forward. Turning the inertia to her favor, she delivered a massive double foot kick to the beast's face.
As Rem collided with the monster, it's head reared back in recoil. Before she collapsed her knees to push back against the beast's face, YN could see Rem's horn glowing against the night time sky.
Pushing off, Rem flipped and twisted in the air, but before she could land, the multi-armed monster used one of its free arms to snag the morningstar that remained embedded into its outstretched arm and hurled it up, over Rem with a great amount of force.
Without being able to do anything, Rem was sent flying as she held onto the hilt of her morningstar, propelling her across the entire festival grounds.
YN: Rem!
Having fully retracted its arm, the beast suddenly turned, and began to run in the opposite direction, towards the area it had seemingly come from.
Emilia: Come back!
Generating a massive ice crystal, Emilia launched it at the back of the monster that currently carried YN away. Making impact, the beast grunted and lost its grip on YN. Crashing and rolling away, YN landed on his side by the stage, too weak to move.
Damn it! I can barely move!
With his vision getting blurry, YN tried to pick himself up, unsuccessfully.
As he looked around to help himself up, YN noticed someone hiding under the stage, which he could now see under while on the ground.
I-Is that—?
His vision focusing, YN recognized the person in hiding.
YN: Julio...-san...
Weakly calling out, it was clear Julio could see him, he was looking right at him after all. Reaching a hand out to him, YN grunted out his words once more.
YN: Help me... please.
Entirely within arm's length, Julio only seemed to look on. What bothered YN though was the look in his eyes, magnified by his large pair of glasses.
It wasn't a look of being paralyzed by fear, or even a look for concern.
In his eyes, there was total disregard. Not contempt, not anger, but rather apathy. As if he could care less what became of YN.
But as the moment lasted longer, a hint of doubt grew in those same eyes, and with it, Julio slowly extended his hand to YN.
Reaching out limply, it was too late, YN felt himself taken upward again, feeling the familiar grip from before.
What was that? Why did he hesitate?
Being taken away, the beast began to run, and as it did, it weaved and bobbed, making it incredibly hard for Emilia to line up another sizable ice crystal.
Unable to get a good aim, Emilia changed tactics.
Emilia: I won't let you get away!
Projecting magic onto the ground, a sheet of ice grew at her feet, and rapidly surfed across the festival grounds, aiming to freeze the beast as it ran away.
Reaching the end of her range, the ice caught the beast's back leg as it continued to abscond with YN.
Stopping it mid-step, the ice slowly creeped up the monster's leg. Looking back at its increasingly frozen limb, it looked toward once more, and with one sudden movement—
*Crack!*
Using its massive strength, the beast broke off its leg, freeing itself from the ice.
What the hell!?
With no strength to resist, YN was jerked around as the multi-armed monster now leapt with one leg as it continued its retreat, losing no real speed in its injured state.
Feeling an immense emotion of powerlessness, Emilia was effectively out of options as YN was taken farther and farther away. As her eyes began to well with tears of frustration, there was one other soul who still hadn't given up hope.
Rem: You won't have him!
Using her nails, Rem made a single cut down the side of her dress, ruining the fine fabric and embroidery of flowers it had in an effort to make her current attire more utilitarian.
Freeing her legs to use their full motion, all the way from her ankle, to her thighs, up to her waist became visible, but at the ability to not be restrained anymore.
Running, Rem picked up great speed.
Faster!
Her mind had one goal.
Faster!
She needed her body to do one thing, and one thing only at this very moment.
Rem must go faster!
As Rem ran towards him, YN could feel the grip around him begin to alter. Slowly, as if melting, the shape of the arm, and the shape of the beast itself seemed to shift. The hobble the monster traveled at turned into a series of jumps, each getting bigger and farther, covering more ground.
Nonetheless, Rem was closing in. Approaching the ice field Emilia had created, Rem slid across it, rapidly reaching and catching up.
However, the monster that held him continued to feel as if it were going under some kind of metamorphosis. Its shape changed, and it was now unrecognizable from before as it continued to jump to make its escape.
Catching up still, Rem reached the end of the ice and crouched.
As the grip around him had completely changed, it felt like he was now being only held by the cloth of his yukata. Feeling like he was dangling low, YN felt Rem had a chance of reaching him while he was like this.
From her crouched position, Rem leaped with all her might, determined to grab YN. Seeing her, YN limply extended his arm with the meager amount of strength he had left.
YN: Rem...
Rem: YN-kun!
Seconds passed in silence as the two were airborne together, reaching out as far as they could. Just as their hands went to touch—
Just as Rem was about to secure YN.
Just as YN felt salvation.
A sudden gust of wind came from above. A beat of a pair of wings.
Propelling him upward and away from Rem, another beat was felt.
And another.
And another.
Until YN was well above the ground.
Rem: YN-kun!
Falling down, Rem's momentum was at an end, and after reaching her apex, she began to fall back down to the ground.
Feeling dizzy from the sudden elevation change and weakness from the loss of all his mana, YN's vision began to black out. Looking up, the multi-armed monster from before was gone. In its place was—
YN & Rem & Emilia & Subaru: —A dragon!
Carrying YN up into the sky, the monster had transformed itself into a scaled black dragon with wings.
With his body at its limit, YN took one last gaze at the girl who held his heart and had tried as hard as she could to save him. He had never seen such a desperation in her eyes before. The light of her horn shining back into them only amplified this feeling.
Upon seeing that, YN lost all consciousness, and was carried up into the night sky by the equally dark dragon.
Falling back down, Rem tucked and rolled to break her fall before coming back up on her own feet.
Rem: No! I WON'T LET YOU!
Projecting her hand to the sky, a massive spear of ice began to form next to Rem. Building its strength, Rem called out.
Rem: AL HUMA—!
Just as she went to launch the mighty iceberg, Emilia had reached Rem, grabbing her arm, causing her aim to be off.
Watching as the large chunk of ice hurtled past the dragon, Rem gave Emilia a look of shock.
Emilia: Rem! What if you hit that dragon and it falls back down to the ground and it seriously hurts or even kills YN? What if you hit him by accident!
Wishing to lash out at Emilia for ruining her last chance to save YN, Rem's maidly training resolved her immediate anger, but could do nothing for her emotional state. She knew Emilia was right, yet—
Rem: Emilia-sama! YN-kun has been—!
Feeling a great emotion welled up inside her, Rem's clenched fists shook with anger. On her knees, Rem slammed her fists into the ground as Subaru ran up next to them, looking upward in group astonishment.
Rem: YN-KUN!
As the blue haired girl's cry of anguish echoed throughout the lands, YN was carried off to a place unknown.
Subaru: Why... Why only him...
Feeling the air against his face and the wind whistling in his ear, YN began to feel his consciousness pick back up. Still being carried, he had no clue how long he had been passed out for.
Feeling their altitude grow lower as the motion changed, he struggled to get a clear view of anything while he was jerked around mid-air.
But it appeared he was over a small village of some sort, if not the same one from earlier, Saluzzo.
As the dragon descended with him still in its claw, they approached the top of a building, a small wooden tower on the outskirts of town, far from where he must have been picked up from.
Only about half his height from the roof, the dragon released YN, causing him to land rough and roll once or twice as his exhausted body coped with the lack of energy.
Unable to stand or even move his arms or legs still, he was just able to turn his neck to try and see the dragon before a voice entered his ears.
?: He has arrived at last.
Coming from the direction he has just turned his neck from, YN struggled to turn his head back around, prioritizing the menacing sounding voice over the dragon in this instance.
Standing over him was a tall man, who wore a weathered, sunken face. His greying brown hair was pushed all the way back, and folded in place with his massive pair of sideburns and neckbeard, each with stripes of greying hair further defining their wild profile.
?: You are... Not how I expected you to look. No matter. You are here, and you are now my prisoner.
Looking up, the man turned his attention to the dragon who had decided to perch itself upon the edge of the tower, overlooking these two as the moon shined its dim light upon all of them.
?: How rare indeed. To see the Mother out and helping. Truly these are different times we are living in.
Bowing while holding a hand to his chest and the other out, like a showman, he continued.
?: I am honored to be assisted by you.
'The Mother?' What is this, some sort of dragon cult?
Looking at the man's clothes, they seemed like a less eccentric version of Roswaal's own lordly mantel.
It wouldn't surprise me...
Nodding it's massive head, acknowledging the lordly figure, the dragon took flight. Feeling the gust of wind from the beat of its wings, the dragon flew off, away from them.
Waiting until the dragon was sufficiently distanced, the middle aged man turned his attention back to YN.
?: Now then. Stand.
Without even the energy to argue, YN remained silent and motionless.
?: Stand now or I shall drag you inside myself.
Mustering his strength, YN croaked out a single sentence.
YN: What do you... want with me?
Leaning back as if he were surprised, that man laughed to himself.
?: My! What a big ego one must have to assume that he, a nobody would be worth all this effort to capture... Hmm, while that may be true, I can assure you, I seek no honor, no glory, no fame. Nor ransom, nor favor, and nor ultimatum. I seek one thing and one thing only. And you, you're the bait.
Not following this man at all, YN felt the collar of his Yukata tighten as the man began to drag him.
?: Fret not though, I do not intend to torture or interrogate you.
Thank goodness.
?: After all, there is a reason my friends call me 'Leo the Merciful.'
Bringing YN inside the tower, Leo drugged him into a rather large room once inside the tower. Halfway between being a throne room and some sort of alchemy lab, a series of iron cages were built into the wall, each with a single barred window.
Taking YN to the closest, Leo unlocked the door and brought him inside. Returning, he locked the door behind him.
Leo: Feel free to make yourself at home, as I'm sure you're absolutely exhausted.
Turning to his work desk filled with various papers, books, crystal, and viles, Leo picked up a single wooden bowl.
Looking around his cell, YN noticed it was empty except for a single wood and linen cot.
Reapproaching the iron bars, Leo passed the bowl inside, leaving it on the ground.
Leo: I even prepared a warm bowl of porridge for you.
Somewhat surprised he was getting impromptu room service with his accommodations, YN remained still.
Leo: I shall be off now, I have a few experiments that need tending to.
Turning to leave, Leo began to descend the stairs from the opposite side of the room, but not before stepping backwards a few steps and relaying one final message to YN.
Leo: By the way, this facility is entrenched with magical traps and the like, and I do hate it when blood stains ruin the wood floors, so please, if you have any considerations for escape, kindly rethink them. Because for now, we wait.
Descending down the stairs, YN heard a door open and close at what he assumed was the bottom of the stairs, and was left alone.
This is something else...
Wanting to be off the ground, YN forced himself to crawl across the cell, and reach the window.
Looking out, it was hard to identify anything through the darkness of night, and this wasn't helped by the fact a crystal light was mounted to the wall next to the window, making it even harder to see out.
If I had brought my phone, I would have been able to maybe send a light signal out using the flashlight...
Looking down at his hand, YN briefly thought about using a Jiwald to signal his location.
I have absolutely zero mana left it feels like... If I even try to cast one, I'll pass out for good...
Recalling the events of the attack, YN's mind was also plagued with inadequacies.
Just one El Jiwald does me in like that? I would understand going down after just one use if I was using some sort of powerful magic, like an explosion spell or something, but I feel pretty pathetic right now.
Not wishing to return to the floor, YN laid down on the provided cot, resting his bones and muscles.
I've got no way to contact anyone while in here... But he also wants them to come here...
Thinking more on it, the idea he was "bait" was troublesome as well.
He must be targeting Emilia... He wants to take her somewhere she's out of her element. But I also don't think he knows Emilia can fight...
Contemplating his situation more, YN put himself in his captor's shoes.
He must have things prepared if he suspects them to come here after all... That must be what being bait means, that's probably what he's doing now...
Theorizing that he would have an advantage if help came sooner or later, YN wracked his mind, knowing time was against him.
After a while of contemplating his limited options, YN heard the door from downstairs open back up, and Leo returned to the floor he was on.
Pretending to be asleep, YN heard the middle aged man's footsteps approach the iron bars.
Leo: How upsetting, you've let the porridge I made go cold. Truly, a waste. Are you quite proud of yourself? No... You must be too exhausted to answer.
I really have no desire to talk to this guy...
Suddenly, a thought came into his mind.
No... I do want to talk to him. I want to tell him something.
Pulling all his strength together, YN sat up in his cot.
Leo: Oh so he can answer. Tell me, how are you enjoying your stay? Are you comfortable?
YN: There's... something you should know...
Leo: Are you choosing to collaborate with me? This is unforseen! To betray your betters for the sake of survival, yes, I can fully understand. Go on, you have my attention.
Looking the man square in the eyes, YN took a deep breath, knowing exactly what came next.
YN: Leo... If I die, I can return by—
The familiar sensation of time stopping and the sight of purple haze diffusing into his surroundings enveloped YN's vision.
Watching from behind his iron bars, the pitch black hands of the Witch snaked their way across the ground, around Leo, and into the cell. Winding up the cot, one arm coiled in YN's lap before the hand entered his chest.
Here it comes!
However, YN did not experience the same feeling of pain he had before. His heart was touched, but it was not squeezed. Using only a single finger, the shadowy hand lightly tapped his stationary heart, as if only lightly scolding him for a minor blunder, a far fetching difference from what he expected.
Nonetheless, his body still screamed for air, but as it did, the hand retreated, and the mist subsided.
With time returning, YN coughed from the shock of it all.
YN: —ACK! *cough* *cough*
While in the midst of gasping for air, Leo frowned.
Leo: Well I can't very well have you dying before everything is realized. I shall depart once more to work on a healing salve.
Turning to head downstairs once more, YN grinned at his minor victory.
Little does he know, I just sent out a call for help. Hopefully Subaru got it, and Rem can smell it. They'll at least have the element of surprise now...
Laying back down in his cot, YN awaited rescue, hoping Subaru and Rem could make do with the message in a bottle he just sent.