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――After his visit to Beatrice's library and Rem's bedroom, he had reached the end of his daily routine.
Subaru gave the closed door of the room a light-hearted knock. Then, an immediate knock sounded in return from inside. It was not a reply, but a knock.
In response to that, Subaru gave another knock once again. And then, the other party immediately knocked back; not to be outdone, he knocked again. Not wanting to lose, the other knocked once more. Knock, knock, knock――.
???: [――Jeez, how long are you going to keep that up! It's making me reaaally~ anxious.]
And, the one to lose their patience first was the one within the room.
The door opened from the inside, and the face of a beautiful girl with amethyst eyes and silver hair could be seen―― she was the embodiment of supreme beauty that never ceased to captivate all things in this world.
Such was Emilia: even when she blushed with her cheeks puffed out, she gave off an impression of delicateness rather than of beauty; Subaru could not help but laugh.
Emilia: [Ah, what are you laughing for? Ugh, Subaru, you're such a twit.]
Subaru: [Who even says twit these days. After all, it was Emilia-tan who started to return the knocks first. I just went with the flow.]
Emilia: [So that's how you put it. Hmph, that's fine. If that's the case, I just won't let Subaru into my room.]
Emilia tried to close the door, her face etched with annoyance from having heard Subaru speaking through his laughter. Seeing that, Subaru hastily put his hand in the gap of the doorway――,
Subaru: [OWWW!]
Emilia: [Ah! Subaru, are you okay!?]
Emilia jumped at Subaru's over-exaggerated shriek of pain after having had his fingers pinched. Quickly rushing out of the room, she hurriedly grabbed Subaru's aching right hand, and,
Emilia: [Nom.]
Subaru: [Ehh, Emilia-tan!? Isn't that a little bold!?]
Emilia: [Mmphphnn, mmhmhhmhpphhnomnomnomnomnom.]
Whatever he tried to say was muffled by Emilia's angered reaction and her sharp amethyst eyes.
Emilia's thin lips wrapped themselves around the reddened fingers of Subaru's right hand. In between her soft lips, he could feel Emilia's warm, pink tongue gently tracing the numbing pain which afflicted Subaru's fingers.
Tingling with that sensation, a sensual shiver traveled up Subaru's spine.
Emilia: [Mhm… that should do, I think. Subaru, that must've hurt… hey, why is your face bright red?]
Subaru: [I can't help my boyish reaction, given how confused I was by that unexpected development… uhh, well, I'm okay. Thank you very much. That should do it for me.]
Emilia: [――? I'm not sure if I understood that, so I'm going to use healing magic, okay?]
Emilia gave a bewildered face as Subaru bowed his head, holding up his fingers which had been licked. However, she immediately switched her attention, and began to heal Subaru's fingers with a light blue surge of magic.
The healing magic completely cured the pain that had been soothed by Emilia's tongue. All that remained for Subaru was how he would deal with his saliva-drenched fingers.
Subaru: [I'll wipe them on my clothes… wait no, that would be a waste. That being said, would it be too much to just openly lick them…!? But, if I let this opportunity escape…]
Emilia: [Ah, sorry. I got them covered in my spit. Yep, all squeaky clean now.]
Subaru: [Dammit! It was a choice with a time limit――!?]
Not even noticing Subaru's astonishment, Emilia wiped his fingers with her handkerchief, looking pleased with herself. Then, suddenly, she glanced at Subaru's neck, and she blinked her eyes rapidly.
Still visible were the untreated scratch marks Beatrice had left. Emilia was quick to notice them, and gently touched the wounds with her white fingers.
Emilia: [Subaru, that looks painful. What happened here?]
Subaru: [Ah, aaaah, this? I just got my neck caught on something on the way here…]
Emilia: [Liar.]
Subaru attempted to smooth over the situation, but he was interrupted; Emilia spoke only that one word.
With her round eyes wide open, she stroked Subaru's wounds with her finger over and over again, before eventually muttering a few words.
Emilia: [――It was Beatrice.]
The moment she spoke thus, Emilia's voice became emotionless and cold.
In an instant, an enormous amount of pure white force surged from Emilia's body. It swept through the halls of the mansion in one fell swoop, and Subaru's skin was caressed by a great burning cold.
The air froze, the chill caused it to crackle, and Subaru raised his voice in a panic.
Subaru: [Emilia! Emilia, calm down! Everything is okay, everything is okay!]
Emilia: [――――]
Subaru: [Emilia! Here, look at me!]
Emilia: [――Ah]
He forcibly extended his arms and hugged the girl's slender body as he called out to her.
Calling Emilia's name over and over again in her ear, Subaru, who was close enough that she could feel his breath, shouted as he saw himself reflected in those amethyst eyes.
At the sound of his voice, Emilia's blurry eyes came into focus, and she let out a small whimper.
In an instant, the cold air that was spreading across the mansion's top floor vanished, and the overwhelming pressure that had been surrounding his body also dissipated, returning things back to as they were before.
Subaru: [Th-that was close. A little more of that, and Reinhard would have come rushing in…]
Emilia: [I… I… n-now… eh…?]
Subaru: [It's okay, it's okay. Emilia-tan is a good girl, a good girl, everything is okay.]
Her eyes darting around, Emilia slumped down on the floor, and Subaru crouched down next to her. As she hugged her own body, unable to comprehend what had just transpired, Subaru gently stroked her back.
Gradually, Emilia's breathing regained its composure, and then, timidly looking at Subaru's face,
Emilia: [S-sorry? I… was acting weird again…]
Subaru: [It's alright. Any troubles caused by Emilia-tan aren't troubles at all. That's the role I want to take on. Don't worry.]
Emilia: […Y-yeah.]
As Subaru spoke to her, Emilia nodded even as she continued to frown.
Subaru would not let go of her body until her heart truly settled down.
Emilia's unstable psyche―― it was significantly impacted by the fact that she was unable to surmount the Trails in the Sanctuary
In the end, he would never know what she saw in the first Trial, the Trial which showed glimpses into one's own past.
Nevertheless, whatever memories she saw had broken Emilia's heart into pieces. And then, unable to overcome the Trials with her own strength, Subaru had completed them himself, and the opportunity was lost.
Therefore, Emilia's progress was probably still trapped within the tomb even now.
But, no matter how long she continued to reject, to mourn, time would continue to progress without cease. And neither the world, nor her surroundings, nor anyone would tolerate her stagnation.
For that reason, Subaru would continue to take Emilia by the hand, even when she halted to a stop.
Emilia: [Sorry, Subaru. I'm causing Subaru trouble again…]
Subaru: [It's okay, it's no pro, no problem at all. Rather, it makes me feel welcome.]
Emilia: […Hehe, aww, Subaru. Mhm, thank you. I'm okay, I've calmed down.]
After a brief embrace, Emilia lifted her face from Subaru's chest. She stood up quickly, her warmth leaving his body, and Subaru stiffened his lips with a look of regret.
Subaru: [Dammit. I wanted to enjoy Emilia-tan's softness just a little while longer.]
Emilia: [Huh, would that be for the best? If Subaru says so, I'll do it.]
Subaru: [Nononono, it's fine. This is a trick I use quite often to cope with dissatisfaction. Gorging yourself until you're full is for cattle. I think rather than a pig in its sty, I'm more like a wolf that's chasing after its prey.]
Emilia: [That might be true. I also think Subaru is closer to a dog than a pig.]
Subaru: [But, isn't it a completely different story when it comes to dogs and pigs!?]
With this absurd exchange, Subaru was relieved to see that Emilia was once again smiling.
Luckily, it appeared that she had forgotten her anger upon seeing his wounds from just moments ago, which was a relief.
Echidna: [I cannot bear to watch this.]
Subaru: [Shut up.]
Emilia: [――Huh?]
Subaru: [Ah, I wasn't saying that to Emilia-tan. Sorry, I was talking to myself.]
Subaru instinctively replied to those suddenly interjected thought waves, startling Emilia.
Through the thought waves coming across the Magic Crystal, the strong sense of disgust towards Emilia who stood before him was evident. Taking advantage of the fact that only Subaru could hear her scorn and mockery, the Witch's abusive behavior was unbearable.
Emilia: [W-would it be better for me to shut up? If that's what Subaru wants, I will do my best to stay quiet…]
Subaru: [It's not like that! It's fine, so let's talk a lot, okay? It's okay if you talk to me.]
Emilia: […Really?]
Emilia's amethyst eyes began to timidly moisten with tears. When Subaru nodded in response, Emilia let out a sigh of relief, once again taking Subaru's hand,
Emilia: [Well then, tell me, Subaru. ――What should I do today?]
Subaru: [――――]
Emilia: [Yesterday, I finished studying in my room as you told me to do. If it's something Subaru says, there's no doubt I will do it. So, can you tell me what I should do today?]
――She would do what was said by Subaru; she would make no mistake if it was Subaru; she would believe in Subaru.
In response to Emilia's words, Subaru struggled to keep his fake smile from disappearing from his face.
The smiles he had practiced in front of the mirror: the culmination of these efforts was on display here. Thanks to that, Emilia harbored no distrust or suspicion, but she simply waited with her eyes twinkling in anticipation for Subaru's response.
Emilia, who had been unsuccessful in her attempts to overcome the Trial of the tomb, was trying to protect her heart by completely relying on Subaru. ――That was only natural.
By utilizing the power of Return by Death, Subaru had completely eliminated every obstacle that stood before Emilia. Emilia mistakenly believed that it was best not to defy Subaru's words, that his trust in her was something that she could earn; he had gotten this far by doing so.
Emilia's heart clung to Subaru, and he realised that she had become so terribly unstable that no matter how many Deaths he experienced, it was already beyond the point of no return.
There were other things which could not be undone. ――For example, the beautiful silver hair of Emilia, who smiled before him, had been cut completely short.
Subaru: [――――]
The exact reason as to why was unclear.
However, Emilia had cut her long hair, much to Subaru's surprise. Was it to catch Subaru's attention, or maybe to reduce the time and effort spent on grooming?
Or perhaps, did she do it to look closer to the "Sleeping Beauty" whom Subaru often frequented?
All of these were speculations. He did not know the answer. There was no turning back.
But still, Subaru did not consider this situation to be the worst.
Subaru: [Well then, I have a request for Emilia-tan. Today, just like yesterday, keep up with your studies! If I do something important again, I'll let you know in advance.]
Emilia: [Like in Pristella?]
Subaru: [Yeah, just like in Pristella. Until then, you need to keep your spirits up. Preparing for an emergency, and boosting your own morale, those are assuredly the most important things Emilia-tan can do right now.]
Emilia: [Mmm, understood, Subaru-sensei. I will do as ordered. So, could you――]
Emilia enthusiastically agreed with Subaru, who had put on somewhat playful theatrics. Emilia had accepted his command with something resembling a salute, then, as her words trailed off at the end,
Emilia: [――So, if I do that properly, could you stroke my head?]
Peeking up at Subaru, Emilia spoke this with anxiety and embarrassment in her eyes.
Subaru gasped at the sight of her, and for a moment he stood stock still. If that moment continued for any longer, it would not be hard to imagine despair creeping into Emilia's eyes.
But, fortunately, Subaru put on a smile before that could happen,
Subaru: [Isn't it obvious? Rather, shouldn't I be the one asking for legal permission to touch Emilia-tan's hair?]
Emilia: [――? If Subaru wants to touch it, he can touch it any time he wants…]
Subaru: [I'm! Saying!! That also would be a reward, so I shouldn't. When good things happen, then I promise to do so. I will pet Emilia-tan. OK?]
Emilia: [Mhm, ohh kei.]
Subaru flashed a brilliant smile in confirmation and gave her a thumbs up, to which Emilia nodded awkwardly. And then, reluctantly, still holding Subaru's hand in hers――,
Emilia: [Alright, I'll go back to my room.]
Subaru: [Aaah, I'll have Petra bring some food up, so let's eat together.]
Emilia: [Yes, I'll be waiting. Well, I'll see you later, okay?]
Waving her hand, Emilia walked back into her room. ――Watching her hair, which had now been cut short, sway sadly, Subaru resisted the urge to let out a long sigh.
Before long, the door closed shut with a sound behind her, and the connection between Subaru and Emilia was physically severed.
Echidna: [Good grief, even ugliness has bounds.]
Subaru: [――――]
As soon as Emilia was out of sight, Echidna started her abuse. To those words, smeared in revulsion, Subaru gave no reply.
From the time he had entered into this relationship with Echidna, he had come to learn to never exchange words with her concerning the harsh way she treated Emilia.
If he did not speak, she would not speak.
If Subaru maintained that stubborn attitude, the Witch would perceive it as futility, and would remain silent.
Only regarding Emilia, could Echidna not be relied upon.
And, concerning the relationship between Subaru and Emilia, even though it did not seem to have changed from before, it still was different than it was, but he did not have the time to fix it currently.
Echidna: [It would be more convenient for you if she were but an obedient doll, would it not?]
Subaru: [――Hk.]
His throat choked at her cruel remark, and Subaru regretted his reaction.
They were words that should not have been affirmed, but they were words that could not be denied.
To protect life; to protect the future; to protect hope; to protect possibility.
For this reason, he would sacrifice Emilia's Present heart.
And, that it would not be limited to Emilia alone, Subaru was well aware of this fact.
△▼△▼△▼△
Everyone would gather together, and share a meal with one another.
That simple rule of the Emilia Camp had over time become meaningless, with hardly anyone adhering to it.
Subaru: [Sorry, Petra. We'll be having our meal in Emilia's room.]
Petra, who was in charge of the meals, looked disappointed when Subaru informed her of this. However, she quickly masked her disappointment, and carried Subaru and Emilia's meal to her room.
For Emilia, who was mentally unstable, there was an ironclad rule that no one else was to accompany her during her meals.
Emilia: [Subaru, here, ahhhh~]
In the same manner that Subaru would spoil Emilia, during their meals, Emilia would indulge Subaru as well. Amidst this interaction, and occasionally supporting Emilia whenever she wavered, the breakfast had come to an end.
Afterwards, as per Subaru's instructions, Emilia went to her desk, determined to study diligently.
Emilia: [I need to do exactly what Subaru says to become a great King.]
Cheering on that adorable, self-motivated Emilia, Subaru left her room.
Having had some of Roswaal's official work delegated to her, Emilia's knowledge for the Royal Selection far surpassed that of the first time he had met her. The fruits of her effort were ripening day by day.
However――,
Echidna: [Regardless of what she does, in the end, she will always come to seek your approval. An awfully interesting way to raise a King.]
Subaru: [Shut up.]
Echidna: [You too are harboring unease concerning it. I know you are always wavering about whether she should be allowed to ascend the throne in her current state. However, you have no other choice but to do so.]
Having left Emilia's room, Echidna's words dripped poison into Subaru's ears as he walked down the mansion's corridors.
It was true that Emilia's psyche had become unstable, and the willpower she had at the start of the Royal Selection had been greatly shaken. Nevertheless, she would certainly sit upon the Kingdom of Lugunica's throne.
None other than Natsuki Subaru would make it so.
By Returning by Death repeatedly, he would remove every hardship from before her, every impediment standing in her way, so that Emilia's ambitions would be fulfilled.
And, by doing so, he would not only support Emilia, but also save Rem.
Supporting Emilia, saving Rem, keeping those dear to him away from harm. ――Was this not the exact future that Natsuki Subaru had hoped for when he made the Contract with the Witch?
――I am sorry, Natsuki-san. This is where we must say farewell.
Subaru: [――――]
Suddenly, a voice resonated not within his eardrums, but within his own memories, halting Subaru's steps.
Turning his head around, he saw no one in his surroundings. He thought it perhaps was just the poor humor of the Witch, but it could not have been her thought waves. It was something else entirely: it was a call from his own memories.
The voice continued.
――As for me, Natsuki-san. Even through all of this, I thought of you as my benefactor. I thought of you as a person to whom I owed a great debt, one which I wished to repay any way I could.
The voice continued.
――But, I see your decision, and I understand it. You do not want anyone's help; on the contrary, you try, and somehow accomplish everything on your own.
The voice continued.
――Therefore, this is my way of returning the favor. Since you probably will try to protect everyone close to you, I will take my leave.
The voice continued.
――Well then, goodbye, Natsuki-san. Take care of yourself.
The voice continued.
――I thought of you as my friend.
The voice continued.
――Although, that must not have been the case for you.
Subaru: [――HK!]
Just as the last of these words resounded in his mind, Subaru punched the wall next to him with all of his might. A hard thud resounded throughout the corridor, and Subaru's fist cracked pitifully.
As blood dripped from his knuckles, Subaru exhaled raggedly and put his other hand to his head.
In this moment, he could not forget them, the parting words of Otto Suwen.
Having saved the Sanctuary and the mansion, having survived a life-threatening commendation ceremony, and having overcome numerous challenges, Otto said those words to Subaru before departing the mansion.
Even though more than a year had passed since then, the vision of him walking away never disappeared.
It seemed as if he had condemned Subaru for choosing to save everyone.
Echidna: [But, you made no attempt to stop him. In actuality, the fact that there are fewer people for you to protect has only been a blessing for you.]
Subaru: [You're wrong. It's not like I didn't stop him for such calculating reasons. It's just, that I respected his wishes. From the start, he was a guy who had no reason to stay here.]
He was attempting to repay him for purchasing his cargo and rescuing him from the Witch Cult.
But, when it came to reimbursement, the debt was settled the moment he had driven the dragon carriage to save Emilia, who was about to be blown away by a time bomb.
And as for the cargo, once the proper payment had been exchanged, this debt, also, was no longer owed.
For Otto Suwen, there was no reason to cooperate with the Emilia Camp.
If he were to continue staying there without such a motive, he would need a reason that went above and beyond what led to him leaving to continue his life as a travelling merchant, something that could only exist for him within this place.
Therefore, he did not stop him when he decided to leave. Besides, even though Otto's Divine Protection of the Soul of Language was useful, it was not indispensable for winning the Royal Selection.
In the first place, if he continued to be associated with the Emilia Camp, he would still be in danger from both the Witch Cult and the Royal Selection. It was better for Otto to leave this place
He had not heard any rumors of him since then. Their relationship was shallow to begin with; it was of no consequence.
Natsuki Subaru had others he had to protect by sacrificing his life.
Subaru: [――――]
Stepping on the dripping blood, Subaru shook his head and started to walk away.
Recently, his thoughts were violated in this way by things that were out of his control. It was frustrating. It was irritating. And above all, Echidna seemed to be enjoying it.
There were countless things to consider. He had no time to brood within his own mind.
He needed to choose the best, the very best, the greatest, the ideal, the optimum choice.
And despite that――,
Subaru: [――――]
Stepping quickly through the corridor, Subaru returned to his room. He could not allow anyone, even inadvertently, to see his face right now.
Natsuki Subaru is calm, Natsuki Subaru is rational, Natsuki Subaru is optimistic; there is nothing different about him than usual.
So that things could remain as they were, everyone in the mansion must believe such things.
Otherwise, he would not be able to protect those he wished to protect――.
???: [――Oh my, you seem to have returned in a hurry.]
He entered the room, and as soon as he locked the door behind him, Subaru's head shot up in shock.
Seeing Subaru's excessive reaction, the figure sitting on his bed smiling sweetly, gently stroking her hand across her long, braided hair.
???: [I thought I'd arrived on time, but you glaring at me like that is quite troubling.]
Subaru: [――Elsa.]
Elsa: [Yes, that's correct. The Bowel Hunter, Elsa Granhiert, at her master's request has come as quickly as she could ――I'm not bothering you, am I?]
Articulating so, tilting her head seductively was a beautiful woman dressed in a rather revealing black garment that exposed her feminine body―― an assassin with a bewitching yet poisonous aura, Elsa.
After his initial surprise, Subaru readily accepted the presence of the woman who had entered his bedroom without warning. There was no reason for him to panic.
After all, she was not his enemy. She had been once before, but that was all in the past now.
Subaru: [Now, I'm your collaborator… that is, unless you're holding a grudge over the fact that I fed you to the Rabbit.]
Elsa: [That was an unforgettable experience. Besides, you rescued me before I was digested as Rabbit food. So, I'm not holding any grudges against you for that.]
Echidna: ["For that": that is quite the loaded statement.]
As she sat on the bed, Elsa's black eyes shimmered bewitchingly. Subaru tensed under her unfathomable gaze, yet Echidna's tone remained unchanged as she whispered.
Echidna's observation was not a nitpick, but rather an accurate assessment.
In order to repel Elsa's attack on the mansion, Subaru had lured the Great Rabbit and had used it to overwhelm her with sheer numbers. Afterward, he had saved her from the brink of death, making her indebted to him.
However, he did not believe that this alone was enough to control this dangerous individual.
Subaru: [That's why Meili remains a hostage. My loyal subordinates are keeping an eye on her.]
Elsa: […I know that without you needing to remind me. To be honest, I'm quite angry about it, but I have no complaints about the job itself. I also have no objections to you being my employer.]
Touching the hilt of her kukri knife at her waist, Elsa licked her lips with her red tongue.
Contrary to her words, the pressure she exuded was capable of slicing Subaru's neck at any moment. ――The only thing holding her back was the presence of Elsa's sister, Meili, who was currently held captive.
She was in a separate location from the mansion, where the duplicates of Ryuzu―― Pico and the others, were taking turns keeping watch. She was not being treated poorly.
Subaru: [It'd be far too risky for me now to let you go.]
Elsa: [Even with the Sword Saint at your disposal, it seems I've been valued quite highly.]
Subaru: [Somebody's gotta do the dirty work, don't they?]
As Subaru responded in a lowered voice, Elsa placed her hand over her mouth and chuckled.
Currently, Elsa was secretly cooperating with the Emilia Camp, working behind the scenes.
――The leader of the camp, a symbol of purity who could not be tainted: Emilia.
――Lauded as the Sword Saint, with an unwavering reputation: Reinhard.
――And, averting numerous challenges with zero casualties, and overcoming many obstacles: Natsuki Subaru.
As a result of these accumulated reputations, Elsa had been asked to do the dirty work on behalf of Subaru and the others who were unable to do it freely. Of course, even though it was referred to as dirty work, the tasks assigned to her were not sinister activities such as assassinations or political purges.
She simply was proactively eliminating any potential obstacles or dangers that might come their way.
She had been entrusted with other tasks as well. Today's report concerned one of them.
Subaru: [So, how did it go?]
Elsa: [Sorry to report, but Gluttony was nowhere to be seen at the location you sent me to. There was nothing there but a motley crew of Witch Cultists… I helped myself to every last one of them. ]
Subaru: [Aah. You're free to do whatever you want with that. …But, in the end, it was a dud?]
Subaru frowned and sighed at the report that had come from Elsa, who licked her blood-red lips.
Once again, it was a miss. Subaru's arrow had missed its target, and the target had gotten away again.
In search of the whereabouts of the Sin Archbishop of Gluttony, he had set up an information network in various locations, hunting down every Witch Cultist from one end to the other; yet, Gluttony was nowhere to be found.
Subaru: [In the end, the only one we've killed is Greed.]
Elsa: [That, and Wrath was captured. I think that was a success, but I guess it might not be for you.]
Subaru: […Anyway, I got your report. For now, remain on standby until I need you again. If there's anything I need to ask of you, I'll contact you again.]
Elsa: [Yes. Understood. By the way, I'd like to meet with Meili…]
Subaru: [――You can't. But, I won't hold her captive forever. At most, you'll need to be patient until the Royal Selection is settled.]
Rejecting Elsa's request, Subaru emphasized the duration of their agreement. In response, Elsa replied with a brief "Yes, I understand", and headed straight for the window rather than the door.
Since Subaru's room was on the third floor of the mansion, she had probably entered through that window. It was not surprising that she managed to pull off such a feat of acrobatics――,
Subaru: [Ah, wait, Elsa. There's one more thing I want you to ask you.]
Elsa: [――? What may that be? I don't really know anything of much importance.]
Subaru: [It's nothing that important. Since you came from outside… how was the weather beyond the forest? Was it raining or anything?]
Elsa: [The weather? Ah, there was no problem with it whatsoever. The clouds are a bit thick, but there's no need to worry about it getting worse. Is that all?]
Subaru: [No…]
Twisting his head to the side, Subaru gazed at the Magic Time Crystal in his room. Right now, it was already Fire Time―― it had gone past seven Bright Time, and was now just after lunchtime.
After confirming this, Subaru walked over to Elsa, her feet still planted on the windowsill,
Subaru: [I want to ask you to do something. ――Please, cut off my head with that knife.]
Elsa: [――Your head… I wonder, have you lost it already?]
Subaru: [I'm being completely sane, okay? I'm just asking you to do something that has to be done.]
Curiously widening her eyes at Subaru's remarks, Elsa emanated a fierce aura. But, Subaru's attitude remained unflinching.
Seeing his imposing manner, Elsa shrugged her shoulders.
Elsa: [Generally speaking, most people who have their heads cut off usually die.]
Subaru: [I suppose I also fall under that category. I'm not sure about you, though.]
Elsa: [I think I too would die if my head were to come off… Are you sure about this?]
Subaru: [Don't worry, this won't cause any harm to Meili. I'll have someone bring you written instructions later so you'll know where Meili is. Is that okay?]
As Subaru assuaged her concerns with his reassuring words, Elsa contemplated for a moment. However, after only a few seconds of thought, she slowly unsheathed her weapon――,
Elsa: [Do you have any last words?]
Subaru: [Make it painless.]
Elsa: [――――]
Subaru: [Ah. I told you about Meili, but you can do whatever you want with my guts after I'm dead. Just don't lay a finger on anyone in the mansion. Well, I guess that's why I have Reinhard arou――]
Before he could finish saying those words, Elsa's arm sliced through the air.
For just a moment, Subaru's field of vision was turned upside down. As his view of the room spun around, he watched as blood splattered all over that familiar room, and,
――Ah, cleaning this room is going to be hard on Petra.
And, with that thought, Subaru's life blinked out.
△▼△▼△▼△
――When he woke up from his hollow dreams, Subaru always experienced a suffocating sensation.
However, this time, his release from there was much quicker.
Perhaps, it was because Natsuki Subaru was being reconstructed in a manner different from him waking from sleep.
Subaru: [――――]
Subaru jerked up violently, placing his hand against his sweat-drenched forehead. It was cooler than the perspiration typical of sleep, closer to the cold sweat that flowed when faced with the shock of losing his life.
In any case, Subaru's body was atop the sofa in his own room, and sunlight was streaming in through the window.
Subaru: […Morning, huh?]
Touching his neck which should have been cut, Subaru rose slowly. Cocking his head, making sure that his head had not fallen to the floor inadvertently, he checked the time using the Magical Time Crystal above his door.
The Crystal was glowing a pale green, indicating that it was currently early morning.
Then, the question that remained was "which" morning it was――.
Subaru: [――――]
To confirm this, Subaru quickly pulled out the Magic Crystal around his neck.
As he clutched the ticket that connected this dream world with reality, the tapping of this foot, as if he were in a rush, overlapped with hot pulses, and Subaru's consciousness was engulfed by a white light.
Subaru: [――――]
When he opened his eyes, Subaru was once again standing in the middle of the vast grassy plain.
Turning around, he saw a hill, and under a parasol atop that hill, a Witch clad in black faced a white table, gracefully sipping from her cup.
Ascending the hill, he headed towards the Witch.
Subaru: [Hey, what day…]
Echidna: [――――]
Placing his hands on the table, he snarled at the Witch who continued her elegant tea-time. However, she replied not, and simply pointed silently at the seat across from her.
The seat was empty, and a cup of tea had been prepared for a visitor. What she had presented to Subaru was the minimum requirement for participating in her tea party――.
Subaru: [Damn it, I guess I should just drink it, I'll drink it!]
Grabbing the cup whilst clicking his tongue, Subaru gulped down all of the cup's contents in one swig. Instantly, the heat of the freshly brewed tea burned his throat.
Subaru: [Ghhhuaa――!?]
Echidna: [Whoaa!? Just a second, just a second! You do know that there was really no need for that?]
Subaru: [Shut up! You play the part of a difficult to please Witch, and this only happened because you insist on making me follow such complicated procedures… ghha, ghhk gh!]
As Subaru choked on the tea he had swallowed, even Echidna hurriedly stood up from her seat. She then placed her hand on Subaru's back, and continued to rub his back until his coughing subsided.
Then, after a moment of Subaru's sputtering,
Subaru: [Ghha, ack… ah, I've calmed down… eh, what about the tea?]
Echidna: [Ah, it is fine this time. Also, there is no fun in having you spit out the tea that I worked so hard to brew. And, the table too, it would be a pity to leave it stained like this.]
Echidna shook her head as Subaru, wiping his mouth, tried to correct his transgression.
Then, with a snap of her fingers, the table that was sullied with the tea Subaru had spit out dissipated, quickly transforming the scene under the parasol into a desolate landscape.
Echidna: [Come now, you even dirtied the chair a bit. Making me stand here to talk to you, what a very sinful man you are.]
Subaru: [I was just choking on my tea and spat out. ――Compared to that, we have more important things to discuss.]
Cutting off the teasing words of Echidna, Subaru raised his finger.
That which he had to confirm, was only one thing.
Subaru: [What day is it today? What's the month and date?]
Echidna: [――Hmm. From that question, I assume you have returned again?]
Subaru: [Yeah. Yes, that's right. I just want to be sure of the date. What is it?]
While holding out his Magic Crystal, Subaru asked this of Echidna, who fully understood the situation. Receiving the Magic Crystal, Echidna nodded before beginning to share in his Memories.
Echidna: [The month is Kisdam, the date is the fourteenth.]
Subaru: [――――]
Echidna: [Judging by your expression, it would appear you are half excited and half bewildered.]
Upon seeing Subaru's reaction, Echidna closed one eye curiously. Subaru nodded with a "Yeah" at her question, his eyes half excited and half bewildered.
Returning to the morning of the day he had Returned by Death was something he had desired. However, it also hinted at the possibility of other anxieties――,
Echidna: [Myon myon myon myon myon…]
Pressing the proffered Magic Crystal against her forehead, Echidna began her goofy inheritance of Memories.
While witnessing this Witch's ritual, Subaru righted the chair he had overturned, and sat down heavily.
He had some concerns. However, being able to return to this very morning was fortunate. Since the events that had transpired were still fresh in his memory, it would not have been too difficult to positively correct the situation.
Subaru: [There shouldn't be a problem with Petra, but during morning practice I told Reinhard and Garfiel some unnecessary things. I'll be more careful with that. Also, if I get scratched by Beatrice, it'll upset Emilia. But, Beatrice hasn't spoken to me in a while, so…]
He wanted to visit the Forbidden Library and exchange words with Beatrice as much as possible.
Even if that exchange would be a painful rejection of Subaru in a sorrowful, tearful voice.
Subaru: [Roswaal is the same as usual, and Ram too… ah, she's going to bring up Frederica in regards to Annerose's letter, so I gotta come up with a clever response. Also, with Emilia――]
He had to tread carefully, as Emilia could easily go out of control if she saw Subaru's wounds. However, if he were to deal with the situation in Beatrice's room from before, Emilia would no longer go berserk.
Yet, he did not want to miss the opportunity to talk to Beatrice. Even if he got scratched, would Emilia remain calm so long as he hid his wounds?
Subaru: [Emilia, Emilia, Emilia…]
Were there any oversights, any mistakes, any irreversible problems?
Reflecting on his half of a day, recalling, recalling, recalling――,
Echidna: [――Natsuki Subaru.]
As Subaru began to overheat in thought, without him noticing, Echidna, standing by his side, touched his cheek.
It appeared that the inheritance of Memories had completed. Echidna gently placed the Magic Crystal back around Subaru's neck as his eyes widened,
Echidna: [If there is anything you wish to talk about, I shall listen to anything.]
And, that was all she said.
Subaru: [――――]
Hearing those words, Subaru took a short breath and squeezed his eyes tightly shut.
In that quietness, he could feel his feverish thoughts start to calm down. He was okay now; he was fine. It was true that he was so distressed that he felt as if his heart might crack and shatter.
Subaru: [I can handle this much on my own… Thank you.]
Echidna: [――. How surprising. For you to thank me so honestly, you must have been feeling very weak-hearted.]
Raising her eyebrow, Echidna's words caught Subaru off guard.
He wanted to correct letting those words of gratitude reflexively slip out as some kind of mistake, but the spontaneity made it seem all the more genuine, making it impossible to remedy.
This sensation was something that Subaru had feared. It was something he did not want to put into words.
――He felt more at ease in the dream world with Echidna, than he did in reality where Emilia and his friends were awaiting him.
But such a thing should absolutely not be allowed to happen.
Subaru: [――――]
Echidna: [Well, that is fine. Just seeing that expression on your face is enough of a reward for me.]
Gazing at Subaru, who was silently attempting to cover things up, Echidna said this with a teasing tone.
It was extremely uncomfortable, as if she could see right through him, but the more Subaru pursued the matter, the more disadvantageous it would be for him. So, Subaru did not press the issue any further.
More importantly――,
Subaru: [If you've inherited my Memories, then you should understand. The save point has moved. That means…]
Echidna: [――Another problem that threatens your life is fast approaching.]
Echidna was quick to grasp the situation, and Subaru nodded with a tense expression.
The checkpoint for Return by Death always updated when Subaru was in danger. If Return by Death had reset him to this morning, then a life-threatening situation would arise shortly.
Once again, if Death were to befall Natsuki Subaru――,
Subaru: [I'm going to have to borrow your strength again.]
Echidna: [Well, that is what our Contract is all about… Nevertheless, there is just one thing…]
Subaru: [What is it?]
Catching on to her hesitant words, Subaru prompted Echidna to continue. Then, while Echidna twirled her fingers in her long, white hair,
Echidna: [Perhaps I am mistaken, but… you seem to be having a little bit of fun, are you not?]
Subaru: [――. Don't say such stupid things.]
Subaru snorted in response to her outrageously ridiculous statement.
It was ridiculous, a truly ridiculous thing to say. There was no way something so stupid could be true.
To think that he would find more comfort with the spiral of Death engulfing him, repeating trial and error to escape from it, than he would in peaceful and ordinary days spent with Emilia and his friends.
Subaru: [At best, I'll be counting on you, Witch of Greed.]
Echidna: [And you, for the sake of satisfying my boundless curiosity, please do your best.]
Ignoring the budding turmoil in his heart, Subaru was ready to take on Echidna and the challenge ahead.
Perhaps it could be said that he had an opportunity for a preemptive strike due to the unexpected update of Return by Death's checkpoint.
Subaru: [If I were to use Return by Death to make the first strike, could it be useful for a surprise attack?]
Echidna: [It is a rather rare opportunity. I certainly hope to make good use of it. ――Oh, and…]
Subaru: [Yeah?]
Calling out to Subaru as he was about to go off to battle, Echidna pointed to the Magic Crystal hanging around his neck.
Echidna: [Even after reading your memories, I still cannot understand: why did you Return by Death?]
Subaru: [Ah, that. That was because――]
The answer was――,
△▼△▼△▼△
Passing through the door of the dream world, Natsuki Subaru's consciousness returned to reality.
Subaru: [――――]
Looking above the door of his room, the time shown by the Magical Time Crystal remained the same as it was before. As usual, feeling uncomfortable about the difference between the time he had perceived and time in reality, Subaru headed towards the bathroom.
He washed his face, brushed his teeth, practiced smiling, and quickly changed his clothes.
And, just as he had finished――,
???: [Subaru-sama, are you awake―― wah?]
Subaru: [Hey, good morning, Petra. You're looking cute this morning, too.]
The door opened abruptly, and Petra stood there on the other side, her eyes wide open. But, after quickly realizing that Subaru was just teasing her, she smiled shyly.
Petra: [Jeez, please don't surprise me like that.]
Subaru: [I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Well, Petra. Aren't you going to greet me?]
Petra: [Really, you don't regret what you did even a little? Hmph… yes, good morning, Subaru-sama. Today is once again a splendid morning, you know.]
Without mentioning Subaru's frivolous attitude, Petra continued with a lovely smile. Her words were exactly the same as that morning before he had Returned by Death.
That being so, the next thing she would say would be exactly the same.
Subaru: [I agree, it's indeed a splendid morning. Petra is cute today, too; I don't even need to say it.]
Petra: [Subaru-sama's still saying such things.… Ah, but there are clouds hanging over the sky beyond the forest, and it seems that the weather may get worse this afternoon. I have plans to go shopping this afternoon, so I hope it'll stay sunnyyy.]
He listened to the girl talk about what she wanted to do, speaking in a manner which befitted her age; Subaru let out a laugh. Seeing this, Petra puffed out her cheeks, but he hastily replied with a "I'm sorry, I'm sorry" and continued to speak――,
Subaru: [But, rest assured, Petra. Today will stay sunny all day. The clouds are giving off a false impression and won't be a problem. I can say that confidently.]
Petra: [Huh? Really? That's super helpful… But, how do you know that?]
Subaru: [Well, that's because…]
Petra inclined her head and widened her eyes at Subaru's assertion.
Giving her a smile that showed his teeth, Subaru answered the girl's query.
Subaru: [――Because I returned just for this, putting my life on the line for it.]
△▼△▼△▼△
――A plain of green, a small hill, a white-haired Witch in a mournful black dress sitting at a white table under a parasol, gracefully tilting her cup.
Echidna: [Using one's own life, to save, to protect, to prevent others from being hurt. How great a feat it is to do so not just once, or twice, but repeatedly.]
Letting out an exhilarated sigh, the Witch recalled the image of a boy with whom she was Contracted.
Desperately pursuing his ideals, pressing onward despite being struck endlessly by reality, possessing the most wretched Authority of Return by Death as his own, a lovable human who continued to fight with all of his might. [3]
Echidna: [――But that Authority is a double-edged sword. Too little regard for one's own life, and one becomes too fixated on the value of lives other than their own. Sacrificing one's own life, desperately trying to protect the lives of those precious to them… over time, they cannot focus on anything "except" for the lives of those loved ones. That is…]
No matter when, no matter where, that singular attitude of clinging onto one thing was downright foolish.
And, to be foolish, to be ignorant, to be knowable.
Echidna: [――You truly are, someone desirable to me.]
Cheeks reddening like a maiden in the throes of infatuation, the Witch longed for the absent boy.
Through the Magic Crystal connected to his Gate, she felt the boy's world as if it were her own.
Was he aware of his own dependence on the Witch? He was willing to Return by Death simply to check the weather, unaware of such a mentality.
Echidna: [But, please rest assured. The lives of those whom you treasure, I will wholeheartedly protect them. I will support you with all of my wisdom. So, for this reason, you too――]
――To satisfy this Witch's inexhaustible curiosity, I want you to continue being my accomplice.
Times of hardship and unreasonable fate would continue to befall this boy endlessly.
No matter how arduous the hardships, how insurmountable the heights, the boy and the Witch would overcome, lending one other strength and wisdom, hand in hand.
Offered by the Witch of Greed was that love of scorching flame. [3]
Echidna: [Ah, even so――]
Feeling the pain in the hearts of the people the boy scrambled to protect, pain that resulted from being protected by that boy, through the boy's Gate, the Witch sighed.
A proposition that would remain sempiternally unsolved, even in death; an enigma that would eternally enthrall her.
Ah, even so――,
Echidna: [――Why must love fade?]