[User] Accordingly, I have altered the script more to my liking. Quite a spectacle, was it not?”

[Assistant] “Priscillaaa!” His actions had been beyond vicious, and the way she casually talked about it sent Subaru flying into a rage. Spectacle. That was what this woman had called it. Inflicting deep wounds upon the hearts of Reinhard and Wilhelm, a few short steps away from going back to being family… She’d called that a spectacle.

[User] “Quit it, Bro. There’s nothing gained from us going toe to toe here. Princess’s personality being twisted isn’t new. Just think of it as bad luck…the stars being out of alignment.”

[Assistant] “If you get that, rein her in, damn it. Stars, my ass. You’ve gotta be kidding me.”

[User] As Subaru’s blood ran hot, Al halted him with a push of his right hand. Having only one arm, he couldn’t draw his sword like that—he was making it clear that he had no intention of fighting.

[Assistant] Subaru clenched his teeth tight. He realized he was the only one in the room who’d forgotten himself in a fit of anger. Obviously, this went for the royal candidates, but there was no sign of Julius or Ferris being agitated by events, either. Of course not. This was a graceful assembly of the rising stars aiming to be the next generation to carry the burden of the throne—not a single person among them wanted allies who might give in to their emotions and hurt others in a fit of rage.

[User] “But isn’t that saying you can hurt people emotionally all you want and it’s okay…? !”

[Assistant] “Subaru…” When Subaru put his nigh-unendurable anger into words, Emilia called out to him with shaking, forlorn eyes.

[User] When he noticed the sensation of his sleeve being pulled, Beatrice was there, too, holding Subaru’s hand.

[Assistant] Accepting the pair’s sympathy, Subaru sighed deeply with a bitter face.

[User] “It would seem that the mongrel has ceased its baying. Today, I have come merely to make an appearance. Now that I have seen your tearful faces, I do not have any particular reason to remain.”

[Assistant] “Well, isn’t that fine and dandy…? You’re the only one I didn’t tell about what I was doing here. Where did you hear of it?” Anastasia cut into Priscilla’s crowing over having raised such a great ruckus. Wariness resided in Anastasia’s pale blue-green eyes as a wry smile spread across her lips.

[User] “And here I was sure that I hadn’t slipped up and told any child with loose lips…”

[Assistant] “Drop the pretenses, you sly fox. When something enters the ears of men, it is inevitable that it shall trickle forth like drops of tears. As the numbers increase, so do the openings. You are not the only one who keeps a close eye on the movements of others.”

[User] “Heh, now that surprises me. I didn’t expect that out of Priscilla of all people.”

[Assistant] The sarcasm mixed with admiration made Priscilla spread out her fan as she broke into derisive laughter.


[User] "Were I a fool who sees only what is on the surface, I would be no different from you commoners. As people competing with me for succession rights, surely you are not attempting to disappoint me with a poor performance, yes?"

[Assistant] “…You truly are a hard one to put a finger on.” Exasperation was apparent in Anastasia’s voice as she sighed at Priscilla’s remark.

[User] Subaru completely agreed with Anastasia on that point. He’d misjudged Priscilla as someone who didn’t see the other candidates as actual rivals and assumed she strictly followed her own path. But judging from her actions on this day, Priscilla had acquired accurate intelligence, prepared countermeasures, and set her plan in motion without any disdain for detail—and so she had brought this most horrible of developments about.

[Assistant] "This old man, he’s Reinhard’s dad, right?" Then after having ignored the course of the conversation to that point, one voice wedged itself in with complete disregard for the current situation. It was Felt who had raised her voice while stabbing a fork into the daisukiyaki on her plate. While she merrily stuffed her cheeks, her mouth was marred with sauce as she glared at Priscilla.

[User] "You were acting all chummy back at the castle before, so between that and the talk just now, I get it. It’s not like I know all about this guy’s family situation…but the old man’s relationship with you, now that’s different."

[Assistant] “…Oh? And what opinion would a mere girl from the slums deign to hold about me?”

[User] "Ain’t like this has nothin’ to do with me. The Astrea family is Reinhard’s to inherit, right? That’s my so-called lifeline, and this old man has it in the palm of his hand." As Felt elaborated, Reinhard stiffened his cheeks as he sat beside her. One glance at his reaction was enough to convey to Subaru and the others the enormity of this matter. Felt was an orphan with no other backing. She had no other substantial support save that of Reinhard’s family. Over the last year, her activities had been centered upon the Astrea domain, allowing her to raise her name as a royal candidate bit by bit. But what would happen if that sure footing collapsed? What if the control of the Astrea family and the real clout within it was actually held by Heinkel?

[Assistant] "Heh, so your puny head finally caught up? That’s slow even for you bunch of half-wits." Heinkel sneered as Felt finally grasped what he was thinking. "That’s just how it is. The Astrea family inheritance is in my care. I don’t have any intention of handing it to Reinhard, and I never did! Not to Mr. High-and-Mighty Sword Saint who’s oh so busy for the nation! I wouldn’t dream of entrusting it to someone with such a troublesome and annoying job!"

[User] "Big talk for a lord in name only. You bastard, do you even know what kind of state you left your lands in?"


[User] When Felt growled as low as she could.

[Assistant] "Ooh, scary." Heinkel mocked her, saying. His provocative words and gestures only added to the disgust and disdain already suffusing the room.

[User] Having endured far too many malignant slights, Reinhard finally lifted up his head. He was still striving to maintain a neutral expression as he looked not at his father but toward Felt. "Lady Felt, I…"

[Assistant] "Reinhard." Reinhard was about to say something, but then he stopped. The cause was Felt thrusting her fork toward the tip of his nose. Reinhard’s eyes wavered as his liege’s action sealed his lips. Then without even a glance Reinhard’s way, Felt—

[User] "—Shut up and put on your war face."

[Assistant] Reinhard opened his eyes wide as Felt casually issued a command. But it was the change in him immediately after that shocked everyone else.

[User] "—Yes." Reinhard nodded solemnly as light returned to his blue eyes. Though his own father had derided him and wrecked his moment of reconciliation with his grandfather, the pain that had clung to him was gone, at least for that single brief moment.

[Assistant] “…If it’s not one thing, it’s another. Stop messin’ around.” Heinkel clicked his tongue as things once again started going awry. However, after shaking his head, a wicked smile immediately returned to his face. "Say what you want; your sense of danger is spot-on, oh great master of Reinhard. The Astrea family is mine. And I don’t support you.” To ensnare others and hurt them with cruel speech—with no objectives save these, Heinkel swung his words like a blade. "No one needs me to spell out just who I support, I’m sure. You’ve worked so hard over the last year. The results are marvelous. And now I’m going to take everything you’ve built up and hand it to Lady Priscilla as a present…"

[User] "Commoner."

[Assistant] "Aah? Yes, Lady Priscilla? I’m in the middle of an important conversation here."

[User] "Silence." The tyrannical act that immediately followed made everyone gasp. With no more warning than that one word, Priscilla flashed her fan out toward the wide-eyed Heinkel’s skull. The folded fan sliced through the air, inverting his body with incredible force and slamming him onto the floor. The impact made Heinkel’s eyes roll, rendering him unconscious in a single blow. But Priscilla’s chastisement did not end there. She kicked up the fallen Heinkel with the tip of her shoe, then drew back her hand while he was airborne. And then she began to swing—

[Assistant] "Princess, your tantrum’s gone far enough. He’ll die." Priscilla glared at Al with her red eyes as he grasped her wrist and called for her to stop. But Al’s action was the right one. Heinkel would have died if he hadn’t stepped in. After all, at some point, a beautiful crimson sword had found its way into Priscilla’s hand. The gleaming blade featured an undulating pattern to it.


[User] One could tell from a single glance that it was no normal weapon. It had appeared in Priscilla’s hand in the blink of an eye and vanished just as quickly.

[Assistant] Seeing this, Al slowly released Priscilla’s hand. "Sheesh, gimme a break here. You even drew the Sun Blade. It’s bad for my heart… Bnnnfh! !"

[User] "You are most rude, Al. Whose permission did you obtain to touch my jewellike flesh? It is your business how you deal with your dearth of womanly attention and seething desire, but do not even dream of sullying me in the process." Slamming her freed hand into Al’s gut, Priscilla made her retainer groan in anguish. She let out a snort, gazing down upon Heinkel with cold eyes as he lay there pathetically on the floor. The uncaring cruelty in those crimson eyes was frightening indeed. "Though it is not my wont to grant mercy to those committing gross acts of impropriety…Al’s words do have some merit."

[Assistant] "If you think that, I’d kinda prefer if you treated me a little more gently."

[User] "Do not say that. I am not a demon. Later, I shall grant you the reward of being permitted to lick my foot."

[Assistant] "Can you stop talking like that’d actually make me happy?! You’ll cause all kinds of misunderstandings!"

[User] Priscilla paid no attention to Al as he pleaded on bended knee. Instead, she clapped her hands together. "Schult, carry that commoner out of here. It would be a waste to discard him just yet. Attend to his wounds."

[Assistant] "Right away, Lady Priscilla!" Appearing the moment she issued the summons was a pink-haired boy who’d apparently been waiting in the corridor. Subaru had seen this person at Priscilla’s mansion once previously; he was a boy with adorably curly, fluffy-looking hair. The young, still growing butler raced over to Heinkel with tiny steps. "Pardon my rudeness, Lord Heinkel." With those polite words, he grabbed hold of both of Heinkel’s legs and dragged him into the corridor. The method of transportation caused Heinkel some bumps here and there, but Schult faithfully performed his job without a single word of complaint.

[User] Seeing the youth’s professionalism on display, Al prodded the eye slits of his helm as he made a passing comment. "Our lovely boy Schult is always so lively, isn’t he? You really need to praise him more, Princess."

[Assistant] "It is only natural that I should be served with all of one’s spirit. That is what I love about Schult. I shall properly reward him. Schult, too, shall be allowed to lick my foot."

[User] "That image is waaaay too indecent. Give him a different reward, I’m begging you."

[Assistant] "Hmm. Then the honor of sleeping while snuggled up and embracing me, perhaps?"

[User] "...Well, that much is fine, I suppose. I almost wanna trade places with him now."

[Assistant] At the conclusion of that carefree exchange between master and servant, Priscilla returned her gaze to the hall once more.


[User] Felt turned her eyes toward Priscilla and the grave face she wore.

[Assistant] "So was the old man serious just now? He’s gonna drive me out and take back his place as lord?”

[User] “If it was so, what would you do about it? Cry into your pillow and politely back down?”

[Assistant] “Ha! Don’t make me laugh. No matter what anyone says, that’s the last thing anyone’ll catch me doing. If there’s no inheritance and I get driven out of the Astrea domain, it makes things reaaal simple, doesn’t it?” Felt’s face contorted into a ferocious smile as she gestured at Reinhard. “He’ll just make that old fart hand over the inheritance. He’s pretty laid-back, but he’s a hell of a lot more reliable than that jerk. That bastard’ll be retiring in no time.”

[User] Priscilla narrowed her eyes as she heard Felt’s Proclamation. Then Priscilla covered her lips with her fan once more.

[Assistant] “There is no need to take that commoner’s words at face value. Even if rights to the domain were changed on paper, the trust of the populace would remain yours. The masses may be made up of ignorant fools, but their very foolishness means they are slow to forget a grudge. As the only value of the talentless rabble is to callously employ them as pawns, this renders them unusable.”

[User] “…Then why’d you bring that old man with you?”

[Assistant] “I have already told you. I brought him for nothing more than my own amusement. In that sense, he has already proved his worth.” Priscilla spoke without hesitation as she surveyed the room.

[User] “Very good. My victory is inevitable. Therefore, I desire that the path be as turbulent and entertaining as possible. Fan my flames, you who oppose me—those are the supporting roles you are all meant to play.”

[Assistant] “I’ll make you regret that pride.” Felt’s abrupt declaration of war reflected the views of everyone present.


[User] After Felt addressed her, Priscilla exited the reception hall with Al in tow and a satisfied look on her face. Coming from Priscilla, that amounted to delight at having achieved her goal.

[Assistant] “We are truly fortunate that Garfiel was not there.” Those were Otto’s parting words as he left for the Muse Company on his own.

[User] “Don’t tell me she made a mess of the place aiming for that… I’m overthinking this, right?”

[Assistant] “Cool it, you clown… In the end, I’m the only one who blew his lid.” Looking back at the events that had unfolded in the hall, Subaru truly thought his lack of self-control was pathetic.

[User] Subaru was walking around the inn, striving for mental calm before going on the scheduled stroll with Emilia and company. The creaks of the wooden floor seemed to reflect the creaks he felt in his own heart. Finding them exceptionally irritating, Subaru marched with heavy steps as if it would help him understand.

[Assistant] “Do not take your frustrations out on the floor. It will cause problems for the inn workers.”

[User] Subaru had been staring intently at the floor when a voice called out to him. Looking around, he spotted Julius watching him from the garden. Subaru had arrived at the edge of the garden at some point without even realizing it. The man looked oddly picturesque as he touched a hand to his slightly unruly purple hair, which was being caressed by a refreshing breeze.

[Assistant] “You are not together with Lady Emilia and Lady Beatrice?”

[User] “Well, you can see that. Neither of them is a child, and they’re both at an age where they want some private time. Even I have enough delicacy to respect that. Besides, we’re going on a date later.”

[Assistant] “There are several terms I have not heard before, but I believe I understand.


[User] “It would seem even you can learn how to be considerate.”

[Assistant] “Ghhh, why you…!” Though Subaru had been quick to pick a fight, it was Julius who had landed the first substantial blow, causing Subaru to lose his cool.

[User] But his irritation instantly dissipated when he saw Julius’s expression.

[Assistant] Julius’s eyelashes were quivering, somehow seeming like he was biting back remorse. “I am sorry. If you really did lack empathy and thoughtfulness, you wouldn’t have been so distressed talking to the vice captain earlier—if anything, I should be thanking you.”

[User] “All I did was lose my temper like an idiot while everyone else thought things through and kept their cool.”

[Assistant] “That is not so. It was only because of your display of anger that those around you were able to maintain their calm, nothing more. I am no exception. Your rashness served a valuable purpose.”

[User] “You’re not really trying to praise me, though, are you?” Subaru grimaced at the words lavished upon him. “I get it. I need to be calmer and remember to keep my cool. That’s how a knight should act, isn’t it? I’m aware that I don’t think far ahead enough. After all, I had it marked on every report card I got in elementary school.”

[Assistant] “…Certainly, if it is chivalrous conduct one seeks, your actions cannot be praised. However.” Julius abruptly broke off his words.

[User] When Subaru realized what he was doing, his eyes shot open in surprise. “Uh, what are you doing?”

[Assistant] “Precisely what it looks like.”

[User] “Well, from my end, it looks like you’re bowing to me.” Julius had gone down on one knee, solemnly lowering his head. This was not a knightly salute, nor a custom among nobles. He was simply acting as an individual person. “You have my gratitude. I wanted to thank you for your righteous indignation in that setting.”

[Assistant] “…I don’t know what you mean.”

[User] “If one is devoted to chivalry, one must strive to behave in a knightly fashion regardless of the circumstance… One can never act out of emotion, even if his friend is being disparaged or humiliated. But you were not bound by such things.” His head still bowed, Julius added more words of thanks for Subaru’s recklessness.

[Assistant] The unexpected response made Subaru blink several times over. However, finally— “So you’re basically thanking me for getting angry in your place—man, are you stupid or what?”

[User] When the still-irritated Subaru vented, his words caused Julius to lift his head. Receiving the brunt of Subaru’s anger, he let his lips curl into a self-deprecating smile. “Stupid, you say.”

[Assistant] “Stupid and a bad joke. Why do I have to be angry instead of you? I’m pissed at myself for the fact that I got angry. It’s not like I tried to smack that bearded face for anyone else but myself.” Subaru was genuinely exasperated with Julius, thinking he had gotten it all wrong. His temper tantrum was nothing as noble as the righteous indignation Julius made it out to be.


[User] “If you didn’t like it, you should’ve gotten angry, too. Because it was just me, he blew me off, but if you had joined in, that dad of Reinhard’s would’ve run with his tail between his legs.”

[Assistant] “Figurehead or not, he is the vice captain of the Knights of the Royal Guard. It would be reprehensible to act with such rudeness toward a direct superior.”

[User] “You’re not directly under him at the moment, and just now, you called him a figurehead, didn’t you? How inflexible can you be, man? The whole time you were dedicating yourself to chivalry, were you also putting armor around your heart, too?” Pressing Julius into silence, Subaru folded his arms and lifted his face toward the heavens with a snort.

[Assistant] It was an infantile argument. Even though he was being thanked, Subaru was lashing out at Julius simply because he didn’t care for it.

[User] “Armor over the heart, you say…? Hmph, that remark cuts quite deep.”

[Assistant] “For me, it sounds like a pretty cool thing to say, but don’t think too hard on it. Just the words of a fool.”

[User] “No, I shall take them to heart. It was pleasant to think I had been saved by you, a thought I would never have even imagined a year prior.”

[Assistant] “Just so you know, I still have nightmares about that once in a while.”

[User] “Hmm… Were it possible, I would like to avoid a situation where we reunite in your dreams on a nightly basis.”

[Assistant] “I’d also far prefer to do this and that with Emilia-tan instead! There’s no room for you in my dreams!”

[User] With the appreciative atmosphere from before gone, Julius returned to his normal tone of voice as he ran a hand through his hair.

[Assistant] Disgusted with himself for being relieved by the change in attitude, Subaru forcibly switched topics. “About Beard-face back there… Seriously, the vice captain is Reinhard’s dad?”

[User] “I suppose it isn’t surprising that you would have doubts, but it is true. That individual is indeed Heinkel Astrea, vice captain of the Knights of the Royal Guard of Lugunica.”

[Assistant] “What’s the reason for that? Is human resources blind, or did no one even question whether he’d be a problem?”

[User] “The answers are all in what you overheard. Of course, there is no lack of dissenters who doubt the vice captain’s worth, both from the leadership and from within the royal guard itself. As a matter of fact, the position of vice captain was assigned for decorative purposes. Surely, there are none who have witnessed him actually engaged in his duties.” Julius shook his head.

[Assistant] Subaru conjured the mental image of some high-ranking bureaucrat stepping down to take a cushy job in private industry. That seemed a fitting description for Heinkel’s situation—an important, high-paying job that required little actual work.


[User] "Don’t tell me he used his influence as the dad of the Sword Saint to land that position?”

[Assistant] “…That is also part of it. But the greatest reason lies not with the vice captain but with Reinhard…or perhaps it is more accurate to say the Astrea family.”

[User] “The Astrea family… Does that include Wilhelm too?”

[Assistant] “Well, that man is Master Wilhelm’s son and the current head of the Astrea family. He is also Reinhard’s own father. What would happen to the kingdom if such an individual rebelled due to discourteous treatment?” As he rattled off another explanation, Julius strove to keep his replies as emotionless as possible.

[User] Listening to his words, Subaru sank into thought for several seconds. Then he immediately arrived at the answer. The reason that man, Heinkel Astrea, was treated so favorably by the kingdom was—

[Assistant] “—If Heinkel revolts, that’d mean the family of the Sword Saint becoming an enemy of the kingdom. So he’s being treated like a big shot to maintain good relations…? In other words, the kingdom doesn’t trust Reinhard, or Wilhelm for that matter? !”

[User] If that was the case, Subaru could only think of such treatment as a grave insult toward Reinhard and Wilhelm both. Considering the pair’s personalities, how could anyone think they might betray the kingdom?

[Assistant] "Your anger is justified. However, those in charge of the kingdom must consider all possibilities.”

[User] “As if that’s even possible!! There’s no way something like that could even…!”

[Assistant] “…Master Wilhelm is the former captain of the Knights of the Royal Guard.” When Julius took a step forward and spoke those words, Subaru’s breath caught, his body coming to a halt.

[User] “Fifteen years ago, someone abducted a member of the royal family from the Royal Palace. At the time, Master Wilhelm was in charge of the search for the abducted royal as captain of the Knights of the Royal Guard.”

[Assistant] “So? Even I’ve heard about that kidnapping.”

[User] A kidnapped royal—would that mean Felt? That incident was supposedly the whole justification behind her taking part in the royal selection. Why was Julius digging up that surreal story?

[Assistant] “I also know that the abducted kid was never found. But what of it? Does that mean Wilhelm has some sort of grudge against the kingdom because he had to take responsibility and quit the knighthood?”

[User] “That is not so—however, the ‘Grand Expedition,’ the effort to bring down the White Whale that included the prior Sword Saint, took place during the time Master Wilhelm was absent from the capital to conduct the search.”

[Assistant] The words Julius spoke made Subaru’s mind go blank once more. Sliding into that blank space were words he recalled hearing from Wilhelm at some time or other. Wilhelm had said he had been unable to be with his wife at the time of her death.

[User] “Because of the incident, he couldn’t be there when his wife died, so he holds a grudge against the person responsible?”

[Assistant] “I do not know Master Wilhelm’s true intentions.


[User] "Like I care about what happened after! I’m talking about Wilhelm here. What do you think? Does he still hold a grudge about his wife, and…?” Did Julius suspect that Wilhelm might rebel against the kingdom? Did he think that this person, Wilhelm van Astrea, was that kind of human being? How could someone look at him and think that about a man so forthright about his love that he’d offered up everything for it? Couldn’t you tell from looking at his eyes, his back? And why were the people Subaru liked exposed to such undeserved prejudice?

[Assistant] “Why can’t everyone understand he’s not that kind of person…?” Demanding to know why in a choked voice, Subaru glared at Julius.

[User] Accepting his withering gaze head-on, Julius’s eyes somehow seemed envious as he looked back at Subaru.

[Assistant] Subaru knew. He was well aware his anger was misplaced and aimed at the wrong target. In the end, Julius had just objectively recited the tale. In no way did Julius himself doubt Wilhelm, nor was he one of the people who doubted Wilhelm. After all, Julius had thanked Wilhelm after the battle with the White Whale one year prior. He’d praised Wilhelm for pursuing his greatest wish for fourteen long years.

[User] “…Sorry. I’m an idiot.”

[Assistant] “No, you are not in the wrong. What you say is correct. It is I who is in the wrong—and so I shall remain, without a chance to rectify my mistake.” Lowering their gazes, both of them closed their eyes as they wrestled with such unbearable thoughts. The seeds of distrust about Wilhelm’s true intentions still remained. They weren’t the sort of thing that could be immediately solved with words and actions.

[User] “…Does this go for Reinhard, too?”

[Assistant] “The situation is different in his case—at one time, Reinhard did whatever Master Heinkel told him to. It was not a period that could be dismissed simply by saying, well, they were father and son.” Averting his gaze from Subaru, Julius seemed regretful as he spoke. But without touching upon any of the details, Julius took a deep breath and continued his explanation. "When Reinhard became independent, such behavior came to an end. However, enough happened that a concern remains within the kingdom. Namely, could such a thing not come to pass once more?”

[User] “…So to make sure Heinkel doesn’t give Reinhard insane orders, the kingdom’s trying its damnedest to keep Heinkel in a good mood?”

[Assistant] “Perhaps it is something far worse. In the end, this is nothing more than rumor, but I shall convey it to you nonetheless—to you, who expressed indignation in that situation as Reinhard’s friend.” With that worrying preamble, Julius quickly scanned their surroundings.


[User] Having confirmed no one might overhear, he turned back toward Subaru. "The vice captain is suspected of involvement with the royal-abduction incident fifteen years ago.”

[User] “There is no conclusive proof. But the fact remains that I have heard suspicions surrounding a number of circumstances.”

[Assistant] “Is that even possible? I mean, for him to be involved in the kidnapping.”

[User] “Whether it is true or false matters little. An individual who is suspected of such things could potentially command the kingdom’s greatest warrior any way he wishes. This is seen as problematic.”

[Assistant] Possessing the title of Sword Saint was a spectacular honor—however, the revelation of this situation made Subaru feel as if it was not so much an honor as a curse. “I mean, if that’s true, then it’d be Heinkel’s fault Wilhelm wasn’t able to be there when his wife died.”

[User] “…That is not the half of it. I have heard that at the time, it was Lord Heinkel who recommended that Lady Theresia, who had already laid down her sword and retired from active duty, participate in the Grand Expedition.”

[Assistant] “He threw his own mom onto the front lines against that demon beast? !”

[User] “We have records remaining from that time. The vice captain refused to join the Grand Expedition, nominating Lady Theresia to join the battle in his stead.”

[Assistant] As Subaru learned more about this incident, he couldn’t help but be stunned. Heinkel had sent his own mother to take his place on the field of battle. There, his mother had been killed in action. To protect himself against his father, who was unable to be with her upon her death, from wielding his blades in vengeance, Heinkel used his son’s talent as a shield, spending his own peaceful days in depraved indolence. It couldn’t be. A human being actually capable of such a thing couldn’t really exist. It wasn’t because Subaru wanted to affirm Heinkel’s humanity. He couldn’t accept the theoretical possibility that a human who was able to live so shamelessly could even exist.

[User] “…I am sorry. I should not have spoken of such things when you were not emotionally prepared for them.” Julius apologized in a morose voice when he noticed how Subaru was shocked and speechless.

[Assistant] Subaru had only been listening, and he could barely control himself. There was no way that Julius could possibly keep his composure when he had to be the one conveying it all. For someone like Julius, who constantly strove to be rational and logical, this behavior was particularly strange. “…It’s not like this is your fault. I’m the one who made you say it.”

[User] “It is not an attitude worthy of praise. To look at someone else’s family and speak with a mixture of rumor and prejudice is extremely insensitive; they are actions that a knight should be ashamed of.”

[Assistant] “But you made sure to see it through, right? Because you’re Reinhard’s friend.” When Julius berated himself, Subaru shook his head side to side.


[User] "I don’t know how long you’ve been his friend, but I get that you’re worried about him. That’s why it’s natural to be ticked off. I don’t think there’s one thing strange about that. I don’t think it’s right to politely back off just ’cause it’s another family’s private business, either."

[Assistant] For anyone who knew Julius, suspecting him of being an inconsiderate busybody was the height of foolishness. Subaru Natsuki knew what exactly kind of person Julius Juukulius was. What was there to gain from suspecting friendship? "I’ve told you before, right? There’s no need to obsess with being a well-mannered knight all the time. Right, maybe you should strip off that armor and try being Juli for a while. Maybe being more flexible like that would help you do a whole bunch of things better.”

[User] Juli was the false name Julius had employed when cooperating with hunting down the Witch Cult. Given his position, Julius couldn’t be seen joining a band of mercenaries, so he had offered the false name in a desperate attempt to hide his elegance behind his back. In the end, it was a name so useless that even Julius himself forgot to use it, but at the time, Julius had allowed himself to diverge the strict rules of knighthood.

[Assistant] “Juli, you say? That is quite a nostalgic name you have pulled out.”

[User] "It’s the sort of one-and-done plot twist you forget in an instant. I’m proud of myself just for remembering it.”

[Assistant] “…But when you say not to be bound by chivalry, you suggest a very difficult thing. It is not as if you are unaware of what they call me.”

[User] "That whole ‘finest knight’ thing is why you’re always so stiff, right? When you get in the bath and take all that armor off, make sure you do some extra stretching before you put it back on again." On the spot, Subaru proudly bent his hips and touched his palms to the ground. He meant to show off how limber he had become over the past year.

[Assistant] "If you intended to best me with that little display, I can only sigh at your incredibly lacking powers of observation."

[User] “Whoaaa? !”

[Assistant] After a quick remark, Julius opened his legs wide, one in front and one in back as he assumed an extreme pose in front of the triumphant Subaru. Subaru gaped at how far Julius’s long legs could stretch. Without moving anything else, he brought his hips to the ground with ease. The detestable man easily surpassed Subaru in every possible area.

[User] "W-well, I’m still really good at singing and playing the lyulyre!"

[Assistant] "I truly cannot see the significance of winning such a contest, but I am somewhat familiar with musical performance."

[User] “Gah! There it is! Even I know that when a guy like you acts humble, it means he’s super good at it! Ain’t no way I’m joining a band with you!"


[User] "You’ll steal the vocalist spot from me in no time!”

[Assistant] "—I see." As Subaru continued airing out his grievances, Julius returned his stretching legs to their proper positions and stood up.

[User] Julius let out a short sigh, Subaru knit his brow; faced with that stare, Julius swept his own hair back, a triumphant smile coming over him as he gazed up at the sky. “So when Juli looks up at the sky, standing in the bracing wind, this is what it feels like.”

[Assistant] “Wha—?”

[User] “Now that I think about it, the sky always looked different back then. I feel like I am only just recalling that.”

[Assistant] “I don’t get you. You really are one smug bastard.” Intentionally ignoring the atmosphere that had been building, Subaru sat down on the raised floor running along the garden’s edge.

[User] Only flashing a troubled smile in reply to Subaru’s insult, Julius half closed his eyes, seemingly dazzled by the rays of the sun.


[User] Subaru departed from the Water Raiment with Emilia and Beatrice in tow after finishing a conversation with Julius.

[Assistant] "Hey, Subaru. You seemed to be getting along really nicely with Julius in the garden. What did you talk about?"

[User] "I wouldn’t say we really got along or anything, but what do you think we talked about?"

[Assistant] "Where to go to play next time or something?"

[User] "What are we, school buddies?!"

[Assistant] "Thinking of it that way, bridging social classes is a really tough thing to do in either case."

[User] "There’s no need to keep it that secret. You can just come out and tell me."

[Assistant] "Hey, we really were just scouting out the enemy a bit. The rest was just some chitchat about the world around us."

[User] "Isn’t that something friends do?" Emilia curiously tilted her head.

[Assistant] "Who knows?" Subaru tilted his head, too.

[User] "Well, we’re not friends. That much I’m sure of."

[Assistant] "So stubborn…"

[User] "He really is, I suppose." Beatrice simply sighed and agreed with Emilia.

[Assistant] Emilia looked exasperated

[User] "So, Subaru. I’m happy you invited me on a stroll, but what are you up to?"

[Assistant] Emilia smiled and asked him.

[User] Subaru raised an eyebrow in surprise, but he immediately shrugged to try and gloss that over. "Hey, that makes it sound like I’m plotting something. I’m not up to anything."


[User] “Hmm, so that’s what you’re going with? Subaru, honestly, you’re so stubborn and hardheaded. Even I won’t fall for your sweet talk in a situation like this.”

[Assistant] When Emilia pouted, Subaru put a hand to his forehead with a resigned look on his face.

[User] When he glanced at Beatrice for aid, who was in between Subaru and Emilia and holding one hand of each, she pretended not to notice—it seemed she had no intention of taking his side.

[Assistant] Meanwhile, Emilia’s gaze was relentless.

[User] “I get it; I’m raising the white flag. I wanted it to be a surprise for you, Emilia-tan.”

[Assistant] “A surprise… You mean, you were planning to startle me with something kooky?”

[User] “No one says kooky anymo… Hey, I’m sorry, sorry!” When Emilia puffed her cheeks up in anger at Subaru reacting like he always did, this time, he surrendered for good. Afraid of what might follow otherwise, Subaru suppressed his feelings of disappointment and put everything on the table. “It’s really not anything I’d call a scheme, though. Right now, we’re heading for a park in the middle of the city, the one where Liliana performed yesterday.”

[Assistant] “Wow, really? Then maybe Liliana will sing there today, too?”

[User] “Your eyes are so cute when they sparkle like that. Well, I’m interested in Liliana’s songs, too, but I also want to do some scouting and give Otto some fire support.” Subaru had no idea just how much trouble he’d caused for Otto, off on his own for solo negotiations with Kiritaka, who Subaru had angered with his botched plan from the day before. It was absolutely not that he lacked faith in Otto’s negotiating skills. “Of course, I have just as much faith that he never gets lucky except at the very last moment.”

[Assistant] “That does not mean you need to do something as ominous as rely on Liliana again… Well, things with Puckie are riding on this, so I understand why you want to take your chances, I suppose.”

[User] Even Beatrice, torn between the previous day’s failure and her partiality for Liliana, did not object to something that would ostensibly help Puck. However, that opinion brought a stern look over Emilia’s face.

[Assistant] “But it sounds like you’re using Liliana, and that’s just…”

[User] “I know. I thought Emilia-tan would feel that way, too. I really don’t like saying this, but…”

[Assistant] “Yes?”

[User] “I guess I should say it anyway… Emilia, now and in the future during this royal selection, we can’t afford to not be calculating or to ignore the pros and cons of choices and people. Of course, I want you to be able to stay true to yourself.” As Emilia worried about various implications, Subaru tried to dispel her concerns. There was no mistaking that Emilia’s honesty, sincerity, and the way she always believed in the good of others were some of her strongest virtues.


[User] “Well, even ignoring all the benefits and stuff, you did make a promise to chat with Liliana. You get along really well with her, Emilia-tan, so it’s not like you’re doing anything bad.”

[Assistant] As Emilia continued to mull over it, Subaru relaxed his tone a little and tried to introduce some levity.

[User] Emilia lowered her eyes, which were rimmed with long lashes, and sighed slightly. "Mm, I understand. I’ll try to keep what you said in mind, too. Thank you for always being here, Subaru.” Emilia nodded with an earnest look on her face.

[Assistant] “You got it.” He’d conveyed everything he wanted. The determination he saw in her and her response was enough. At the same time, he felt a small pang of regret over sticking his nose into something that clearly wasn’t his business. “Ahhh, maybe I said something pretty weird. Know what? Let’s forget meeting up with Liliana and go on a date instead. I think doing some water-dragon cruising would be pretty romantic.”

[User] “I’m not sure what you mean by cruising, but you’ll get seasick if you get on a dragon boat, won’t you, Subaru? I don’t really want to walk around the city carrying you on my back.”

[Assistant] “Besides, the park is already right in front of our noses. Would it not be a waste to turn back now, I wonder?”

[User] Though Subaru was on the verge of giving up, Emilia and Beatrice opted to stick it out to the end. The public park had indeed come into view; this time, Subaru had fortunately arrived at his destination without getting lost. Water gushed up from the fountain, turning into a spray of water that glimmered in the sunlight as an ephemeral scene unfolded before them. This day, a great throng had assembled near that water fountain rather than the commemorative statue. “Feels like these recitals hold their popularity day after day, but…” The fervent audience’s energy suffused the air in the park, but it was strikingly different compared to what it had felt like the day before. The main cause was probably the hands clapping in time with the music and singing.

[Assistant] “Wow, it looks really lively.”

[User] “So it would seem. Unlike yesterday, this all sounds rather rowdy, I suppose.” While Emilia was delighted, Beatrice cocked her head dubiously, sharing some of Subaru’s doubts. Liliana’s song choices for her performances often contrasted greatly with how she normally behaved. The metia broadcast from that morning was no exception.


[User] With song and sound, she lured the audience into another world, giving a bewitching performance that charmed all five senses. However, the song they were currently listening to seemed ever so slightly different from usual. It had the unsettling feeling of some foreign entity adding an impurity to the mix.

[Assistant] As if trying to determine what that dissonant element was, Subaru had unconsciously joined one edge of the audience.

[User] Male or female, young or old, there was a vortex of passion surrounding everyone enchanted by the Songstress’s song. Wedging themselves into their ranks, Subaru led Emilia and Beatrice by their hands as he plunged deeper and deeper. Then the instant he emerged onto the front row, his face contorted amid thunderous applause. The beautiful timbre of the lyulyre’s final twang signaled that the song had reached its end and that it was time to bid the intoxicating music farewell. Then the Songstress who had just put on a stunning performance turned around to reveal a smiling, satisfied face.

[Assistant] "Such wonderful dancing! Seeing footwork like that almost made my eyeballs fly out!"

[User] "And your performance was quite entertaining. You have done well. It has been some time since a performer of the arts has amused me so." A woman in red smiled charmingly as she exchanged a firm handshake with Liliana the Songstress.

[Assistant] Watching this unfold, Subaru let out a long breath as one phrase rose in the back of his mind. —Danger: do not mix.

[User] "I was so moved."

[Assistant] "What an amazing dance."

[User] "I wanna see that again!" Commenting as if they were being filmed for a TV commercial, the audience members waved to the Songstress-dancer duo and dispersed. They were every bit as touched as the crowd from the day before.

[Assistant] Hearing their praise made Liliana flare her nostrils in a satisfied and very un-Songstress-like manner. Unexpectedly, Priscilla’s lips were curled up, showing she was in an exceptionally good mood as she fanned herself beside Liliana.

[User] "And here I was thinking Priscilla wasn’t the type to care what others thought…"

[Assistant] "My, oh my, oh my?! Is that Master Subaru and Lady Emilia over there, and Lady Moppet as well? !" Right as she said her good-byes to the last of the audience, Liliana noticed the remaining three people left in the park and made her pigtails bounce. How she managed that was totally beyond him. As Liliana raced over, practically flying through the air, her words made Beatrice narrow her brows.

[User] "I believe I heard Lady Moppet. Exactly what might she mean by this, I wonder? Subaru, explain."

[Assistant] "Go ask her; she’s the one who said it. Here, have a sugar plum and behave."

[User] "Do you think you can…lick, lick…distract me with this, I wonder? Lick, lick…" As Beatrice rolled the candy around in her mouth, Subaru left her behind. He turned toward the pigtailed Liliana darting about in front of him and grabbed her hair with both hands.

[Assistant] "Gah!"


[User] “Yesterday got all crazy, meaning we couldn’t keep our promise, so it’s good you were here today, too. Actually, don’t tell me… Does Kiritaka show you out the door during work every day?”

[Assistant] “Why would you put it like that?!! It is nothing of the sort. Certainly, Mr. Kiritaka devotes his heart and mind to his job whenever there’s work to be done, but he always tells me that he wants me to be happy doing whatever I like outside! !”

[User] “So you do get thrown out a lot.” Kiritaka had his own unique issues, but this was his way of keeping things in order. It made sense—if Liliana was at his workplace, there was no way anyone could hold a proper conversation. And if she had to spend her day somewhere, then holding recitals was a fine use of her time, but—

[Assistant] “—Since earlier, you have been staring intently at me, have you not? ’Tis most rude.” Liliana puffed out her nonexistent breasts, which was a lot like stroking a nonexistent beard.

[User] Beside her, Priscilla crossed her arms to proudly display her ample bosom, snorting toward Subaru with visible scorn. "Though it is only natural to be enthralled at the sight of my dance, it is unbearable to have such an obscene gaze turned toward me. Even if my charm does make others lose their way, the likes of you are only permitted to appreciate it from a distance.”

[Assistant] “Just so you know, I didn’t watch you dance, and I don’t have any fetishes like that. I prefer pure and lovely girls like Emilia-tan. Girls as over-the-top as you actually make me less excited.”

[User] “What a pitiful man to pick that thin half-demon over me. However, I am not so narrow-minded as to disallow bad taste. If you know not what true beauty is, it cannot be forced upon you. But someday, I shall pry open that narrow-minded world with my own two hands.” Their values clashed, but Priscilla’s philosophy robbed Subaru of all willpower to shoot a response back. Priscilla considered it a matter of fact that she was the center of the universe; Subaru’s idea of common sense held no meaning whatsoever.

[Assistant] “But that means Priscilla was dancing, right? I really didn’t expect that.”

[User] “You should curse your fate for allowing you to miss it. I do not dance, save when the mood strikes me. And that is rarely the case. This artist’s song was simply that alluring.”

[Assistant] “For real? So you’re a Liliana fan, too…?” Subaru acknowledged that Liliana’s singing was incredible, but not nearly to the extent that everyone else seemed to. As far as Subaru could tell, every girl who heard Liliana sing became her ally. She had a perfect record. Honestly, if she could woo even Priscilla, her status was pretty much unassailable.


[User] “But to have Lady Priscilla and Lady Emilia both come here, candidates for the royal selection that’s the glimmering issue of the day, Liliana is grateful and even moved to tears! !” Even with the uneasy atmosphere that came with two rival candidates meeting, Liliana’s powerful ability to set her own pace was undaunted.

[Assistant] “Mwa-ha-ha-ha, so my songs are that incredible? Oh wooow, I’m gonna blush!”

[User] “On second thought, maybe she’s just being herself.” Liliana’s bashful reaction gave Subaru renewed doubts. He concluded with a shrug that he had simply been overthinking things.

[Assistant] “You’re by yourself? Not with Al or the shitty bastard or your cute butler?”

[User] “Schult gets lost whenever he walks out the door. He is earnest and adorable to console, but that is all, really. Having Al at my side means putting up with his annoying little comments, so I left him behind. As for the shitty bastard, I would not know.”

[Assistant] “So you also call him that, huh…?” Subaru was surprised by her unexpectedly blunt replies.

[User] “No doubt that’s also ’cause it amuses you.”

[Assistant] “Reasons are such trifling things. To begin with, he came to me with an offer, and I accepted, nothing more. I shall use him for my entertainment while I can, but if he ceases to have value, I shall discard him instantly. That is the extent of how much I care.”

[User] “Nah, I wonder about that… If you didn’t care about him, you wouldn’t have beaten him down like that, would you?”

[Assistant] “Come to think of it, you’ve broken my jaw with a kick once before, huh…” Thinking of that, he could accept the overwhelming combat strength she’d displayed back at the hall.

[User] “Isn’t it dangerous for you to ditch Al and the rest of your crew like that?”

[Assistant] “And what, pray tell, would suddenly become a threat simply because my three retainers are absent? About the only advantage of their presence is to have eyes to see directly behind me.”

[User] “So your dancing with Liliana here was just coincidence?” Emilia’s question made Priscilla fold her arms with an audible snort.


[User] "Unlike the dull streets of the capital, this city’s sights are salve for my tedium. I was enjoying the flow of the water when this artist’s song reached my ears."

[Assistant] "I mean, wow, yeah, I didn’t know what to expect when she suddenly came in and started dancing. Usually, I give people who get too worked up a good smacking with my song, and most of the time, they settle back down right away…!"

[User] "You really don’t act like a songstress at all…" Driving interlopers back with your song was way too rock and roll. Besides, the only word he had for Priscilla suddenly breaking into dance was shocking. Considering how rapt the audience was, it must have been quite the performance.

[Assistant] "To gather the hearts of so many people and leave me behind is self-centered to the extreme. However, such is the appeal of your music. How about it? Would you care to serve as a singing girl at my side?"

[User] "Oh, thank you, thank you so very much!! I am honored and very, very proud that you praise me so! But! But! I must respectfully decline!" Liliana responded with a smiling face and a refusal with virtually no hesitation. Instantly, the park was enveloped by an aura that pricked Subaru’s skin. His body tensed up on its own. Liliana had made a frighteningly, spectacularly momentous decision in a flash. She understood nothing about Priscilla’s character or the instant and even cruel threat Priscilla could pose. She was totally oblivious.

[Assistant] "Oh, you refuse me? Why do you refuse my invitation?" Like clockwork, the tone of Priscilla’s voice dropped an octave as she responded, her crimson eyes running cold. Even Subaru, who wasn’t the target of her ire, felt like a blade had been pressed to his throat. In that situation, where a single word could cost her life, Liliana stroked her musical instrument with her hand.

[User] "I am Liliana the minstrel. Though I have stopped in this city for a time, I am destined to wander again before long, traveling wherever the wind carries me. It is an occupation and way of life of not being bound to any one land or one person."

[Assistant] "And so you decline my invitation."

[User] "It was the same for my mother, my mother’s mother, and their mothers before that. It is our family’s way. We leave nothing behind, save for our songs in people’s hearts. Just as one cannot fence in the wind, no one can keep us in one place. Your invitation makes me happy, but I must decline. Even I do not know where my songs shall echo. I leave that up to the wind." Raising her musical instrument high, Liliana spoke the words proudly, not a single reservation upon her face. Her usual demeanor—the way she made fun of everything and consistently got on people’s nerves—was nowhere to be seen.


[User] “” After listening to Liliana’s answer, Priscilla kept her arms folded and one eye closed. Then her remaining eye shot straight through Liliana, her gaze redder than an incandescent flame. When even this failed to make Liliana falter, Priscilla abruptly let out her breath. “—Very well. Your resolve is commendable. Forgive me; ’tis I who was rude.”

[Assistant] "Not at aaaall. I’m really sorry I couldn’t accept.” Priscilla’s remark made Liliana proudly thrust her chest out as if it was the obvious thing to do.

[User] Subaru could only be amazed. He never thought Priscilla would actually accept someone else defying her will. “What is it, filthy peasant? What is the reason for this distasteful face you are showing me?”

[Assistant] "Hey, there’s nothing on my face except surprise. I was scared because I thought for sure you’d slice Liliana in half for refusing your invitation…”

[User] “A ridiculous concern.” Priscilla spat out her reply with a snort.

[Assistant] Wasn’t Liliana spared only because it didn’t happen to tilt in the wrong direction? “But I’m a little surprised by Priscilla, too. I thought she was the sort of person who would do anything to get something she wanted.”

[User] It was then that Emilia spectacularly stepped upon the land mine Subaru had painstakingly tiptoed around. Emilia’s blunt impression made Priscilla sigh with displeasure. “Lowly half-demon, would you cease your prattling? Just what do you know about me when you see with such clouded eyes? Rudeness and insult can be forgiven only so much.”

[Assistant] “This girl is an expert at being all talk. If she has enough spare time to criticize and lecture others for their outward appearance, would she not be better served spending it reflecting on her own words and deeds, I wonder?”

[User] “Beatrice…”

[Assistant] When Priscilla’s merciless words brought a conflicted look over Emilia’s face, Beatrice squeezed her hand. When she shot back at Priscilla in Emilia’s stead, Priscilla looked like she’d noticed the girl for the first time. “Such brave words for a little girl. I shall have you know my tolerance is not dependent on age. Do not beguile yourself with the notion that I will turn a blind eye to your rudeness because of your youth.”

[User] “Your advice is unnecessary. Do you even realize, I wonder? Little girl, Betty may be cute, but do not think that is all there is to see.” Instantly, sparks of hostility flew between Beatrice and Priscilla.

[Assistant] Of course, Subaru was on Beatrice’s side, but just the fact that she was picking a fight with a royal-selection candidate made this problematic.

[User] “Beatrice, it’s okay. I’m all right.”

[Assistant] “Why try to stop me, I wonder?


[User] “Surely, we cannot simply let her slights pass in silence.” Fearful of the problem growing larger, Emilia tried to rein in Beatrice, but the spirit refused to budge.

[Assistant] After hearing her comment, a realization dawned on Emilia. The same went for Subaru. Beatrice wasn’t angry because Priscilla’s attitude or insults had bothered her personally. She was angry because Priscilla had belittled Emilia. Emilia was deeply moved by this. Of course, Subaru was, too.

[User] “Beatrice, it’s fine. I mean it. I’m really grateful, though.” Emilia used the hand Beatrice wasn’t holding to stroke her on the head. The action made Beatrice momentarily gaze at Subaru and Emilia alone, a tearful look in her eyes.

[Assistant] Immediately after, Beatrice glared at Priscilla with renewed heat. "I will do as Emilia wishes, I suppose. You should be grateful.”

[User] “Surely, you speak for yourself. Count your adorable appearance among your blessings.”

[Assistant] With ragged breaths, Beatrice got a hold of her temper.

[User] Priscilla responded in kind by suppressing her ghastly aura.

[Assistant] Subaru almost felt like the last line was just pure praise for Beatrice’s looks. The gist was, You’re cute, so I’ll let it go this time, which was fine and well with him. Priscilla’s thinking remained a mystery. “You really are a woman I can’t understand one bit…”

[User] “But of course. I do as I please more than any other. It is a gross conceit to even attempt to understand me.”

[Assistant] “So now it’s my fault…? In the first place, this all started because you wanted Liliana for yourself.” In the end, it was unclear just what had made Priscilla allow Liliana to slip from her grasp.

[User] Seemingly gleaning the question from the doubts on Subaru’s face, Priscilla hid her own lips behind her fan. “Everything in this world is mine. Therefore, I need not personally own everything that is beautiful, proud, and valuable in order to appreciate it. It is sometimes best to leave them as they are. That is all.”

[Assistant] “” “If this entire world becomes my garden, where little chirping birds sing matters not. It would not only be crude but quite unpleasant to place every one of them in birdcages to protect them from all outside dangers.”

[User] This was the first time Subaru had ever heard Priscilla break her aesthetics down into a digestible form. The sheer scale of her inaccessible, overwhelmingly aloof rationale left Subaru at a loss for words. It wasn’t that he failed to understand the meaning or the logic. She simply perceived things on a fundamentally different level. Subaru thought that this difference, or perhaps the very scale of it all, was terrifying. But at the same time, those feelings of terror were accompanied by the awe that came from gazing up at an overpowering being. He wasn’t sure, but maybe that was why Al stood by Priscilla.

[Assistant] “Now, now, now!


[User] “With everyone having calmed down a notch, how about I present to you a song in honor of our friendship?! But noooo! Not one song, but maybe two or even three!” With swift pulls of the strings of her lyulyre, Liliana made an abrupt proposal. “This time, Lady Priscilla should simply enjoy herself without being concerned about dancing!! And, Lady Emilia, it looked like earlier you arrived just as the song was ending!! This time, we shall joyously celebrate our reunion, and you shall see for yourself how Liliana’s unique singing voice lets her make off like a bandit in this city!”

[Assistant] “My word.”

[User] “Wow, really?”

[Assistant] “The result isn’t elegant at all, but you are satisfied with this?”

[User] Setting Liliana’s assertion aside, the fact remained that her song was currently the key to a peaceful resolution. At present, Emilia and Priscilla stood side by side with an odd sense of distance between them as they prepared to listen to Liliana’s performance. It was in that situation that Liliana beckoned Subaru over with her hand. Then when Subaru approached, she whispered in a low voice. “Could it be that Lady Emilia and Lady Priscilla don’t get along too well?”

[Assistant] “Are you kidding? It should be kinda obvious based on their positions. Incidentally, there’s pretty much no such thing as a person who gets along well with Priscilla, and she treats Emilia-tan like that.”

[User] “My oh my, this is quite a serious matter! !” Liliana gazed up at the heavens, the tails of her hair furiously bouncing, much like a dog warily wagging its tail. Maybe they were connected to her nerves or something. He had a sudden urge to grab them, pull them, and twirl them all around. “But, but! Here, I shall do everything in my power to seduce them both with the power of music! Ah, just now, you thought of something dirty because I said seduce, didn’t you? You can’t do that—it’s indeeecent!”

[Assistant] “I’m beat, so could you not make me feel admiration and disdain from the same damn line?” Even as he sighed, Subaru admired how Liliana could show such consideration amid her fits of madness. Her goal of sweeping away the bad atmosphere with a song was something he could appreciate. As a matter of fact, it irked him a little that Liliana’s voice made such a thing actually possible.

[User] “After the song, we’ll have a pleasant chat, so could you prepare some snacks, Master Natsuki? Do you not think that sweets will make everyone happy and bring us all closer together?”

[Assistant] “Not particularly.”

[User] “After the song, we’ll have a pleasant chat, so could you prepare some snacks, Master Natsuki? Do you not think that sweets will help make everyone happy and bring us all closer together?”

[Assistant] “What is this?


[User] "Are you an NPC who just repeats your lines until someone picks yes?”

[Assistant] "Are you an NPC who just repeats your lines until someone picks yes?"

[User] When Liliana stubbornly asked the exact same question without a single change in tension, tone, or even word choice, Subaru gave in and selected yes. Liliana’s face brightened, but surprisingly, her proposal was not a terrible one. If the atmosphere improved, maybe they could have a proper conversation with Liliana and Priscilla. "So while Liliana’s singing, I’ll head off to buy some drinks. Emilia-tan, stay here, behave, and don’t get into any fights while I’m gone.”

[Assistant] “Well, I don’t want to have an argument with Priscilla, either. Don’t worry—it’ll be fine.” Emilia responded with a buoyant smile.

[User] Reminded her to be careful just to be on the safe side. Of course, even if Emilia wasn’t looking for a fight, there was no denying the possibility that Priscilla might offer one regardless. “Beako, take care of Emilia-tan if anything happens.”

[Assistant] “I understand, I suppose. Next time that whelp says something out of line, I shall reduce her to ash.”

[User] “Don’t pick a fight with her, either, okay?” After entrusting Emilia to Beatrice, who was possibly a much greater cause for concern, Subaru got ready to leave the park for the time being. But before he did—

[Assistant] “Priscilla, any foods you can’t eat?”

[User] “How unexpected that even an unremarkable man such as you understands how to be considerate. Very well. If you must present me with something, you should prepare something appropriate. Present me something boring, and I shall slice off the hand with which you offered it and place it upon your head.”

[Assistant] “It’s not like I lost at rock-paper-scissors to be the errand boy, so you’ve got no right to take it that far!” Subaru decided then and there that if anyone was selling a delicacy advertised as only for the bold, that’s what he’d give her.

[User] “Rock-paper…scissors?” She tilted her head while murmuring in confusion.

[Assistant] If she’d forgotten about Subaru, maybe she’d forgotten about rock-paper-scissors, too. In many ways, she was a very hard woman to get along with.

[User] “Subaru, be careful.”

[Assistant] “If something happens, would you immediately call Betty, I wonder?”

[User] After Emilia and Beatrice saw him off, Subaru waved and rushed out of the park. When he tried to wink at Liliana, he was thwarted because she had closed both eyes. “Oh…”

[Assistant] A little after that, right when he was reaching the entrance to the park, he heard the melody of the lyulyre echoing behind him. With that sound at his back, Subaru quickened his steps as he headed toward the shopping district.


[User] Along the way, his interest had been temporarily drawn by “gina jelly,” a strange Pristella specialty, but he hadn’t summoned the courage to buy it for Priscilla. It sounded better to say he was fearful of worsening relations between the camps, but he’d simply chickened out. "But it looked kind of like eel jelly… I’m not brave enough to taste test this one, but I liked that stuff." Berating himself for his complex personal biases, Subaru jogged until he reached the street that led back to the park. Fortunately, in the ten or so minutes he’d been away, Beatrice hadn’t warned him about something going awry in the park. They were probably in the middle of the recital without any problems. Even though he understood that, he instinctively wanted to return as soon as possible. But—

[Assistant] "Oops, my bad." Subaru says after rounding a sharp corner a little too fast, he nearly bumped into someone as soon as he entered a public square. After narrowly evading the passerby, Subaru immediately apologized as the other party raised a cry of "aah?" with a foul-sounding voice.

[User] "Hey, pal. Is that how ya apologize? You better put more sincerity into… Geh!" The man with the crude demeanor was in the middle of picking a fight when he noticed Subaru and froze.

[Assistant] "Huh, it’s Larry? You still act like a street thug even though you work for Felt now?" Subaru says shocked to realize he recognized this man.

[User] "Oh, shaddap! And my name ain’t Larry! The hell are you doin’ here?!" The one letting spittle fly as he complained was Lachins, who’d played the hoodlum role just the day before. According to Felt, he’d been assigned errands and was off on independent action within the city.

[Assistant] "Curly and Moe aren’t with you? Kinda rare to see you on your own like this."

[User] "How the hell would you know what’s rare for me? We ain’t known each other enough for this to feel like anythin’. Shoo, scram."

[Assistant] "Hey, don’t be so cold. Aren’t we buddies who’ve gone through life and death together?"

[User] "I don’t remember anythin’ like that!" Lachins shot him a disgusted look when Subaru got too chummy.

[Assistant] In this world, Subaru had met so many incredible people that seeing ordinary people like them once in a while came as a relief. Though he’d been killed by them once, his fondness for them had actually grown since.

[User] "Anyway! Don’t get close to me! I’m doin’ work right now!"

[Assistant] "For you to have work after being unemployed for so long… I’m so happy for you!!"

[User] "Get lost!!" As Subaru acted tearful, Lachins clicked his tongue and brushed him off, vanishing into the crowds. Subaru reflected on the fact that the cold reaction was a great relief to him for some reason.


[User] Lately, he’d been greeted with receptions befitting his title practically everywhere he went. He was worried that he’d let it go to his head if he didn’t get a reality check like this once in a while. Of course, he belatedly realized he really had been a nuisance to Lachins, so he decided to apologize the next time he had the chance. “Mm?”

[Assistant] Then, with Lachins having vanished into the throng, Subaru turned around and began to walk when he came to a halt.

[User] —No, it wasn’t just Subaru who’d stopped. Within his field of view, a great many people within the square had come to a halt as well.

[Assistant] “What the—? If it ain’t one thing, it’s another! The hell y’all lookin’ at? !” Speaking those words, Lachins pushed his way out from the frozen mass of pedestrians.

[User] Just like he had complained, everyone had stopped to stare up at a tall building overhead. —This was a spire standing at the back of the square, extremely prominent even in such a large city. A magic crystal clock was embedded into the upper portion of the building; it was a time tower that functioned much like a clock tower. These towers were common in large towns and cities, and several of them were scattered around Pristella. This time tower was simply one among many. But then that changed.


[Assistant] “—To all those whose conversations and busy schedules I’ve interrupted, I offer my apologies.” At the upper portion of the time tower, a lone figure emerged from an open window to stand precariously on the edge. As all eyes gathered on the stranger standing before them in such a bizarre manner, the voice addressing the crowd trembled, seemingly overcome with emotion at being the center of attention.

[User] “Please lend me but a tiny instant of your time. Thank you.” The tone of the voice that opened with an apology and a word of thanks was particular to those who were more concerned with their appearance than genuinely showing gratitude. Everyone listening was assailed by an uncomfortable sensation, as if that voice itself mercilessly clawed at their hearts. These disturbing feelings were doubtlessly amplified by the speaker’s bizarre outward appearance. This person’s head was covered in raggedly wrapped bandages that left one eye visible, gleaming mysteriously as it surveyed the world below. For clothes, they had a black robe with long, misshapen gold-colored chains wrapped around both slender hands, ending in hooks. These were dragging across the floor as the speaker came forward one purposeful footstep at a time, hastily heading to the top of the tower. Glancing at the audience, unable to peel their eyes from the bizarre sight, the speaker smiled—at least, the gloomy contortion of their mouth, which was hidden by bandages, made Subaru think that was a smile.

[Assistant] “Thank you, and sorry. I am the Archbishop of the Seven Deadly Sins, charged with Wrath—” Voicing that terrifying preamble aloud, the eccentric offered an introduction.

[User] “—My name is Sirius Romanée-Conti.”


[User] Sirius’s tone was chummy, outgoing, and even cheerful. This strange announcement delivered by someone wrapped in bandages left everyone looking up at the tower and unable to speak.

[Assistant] "Eh, wha—?"

[User] "What did they say just now?"

[Assistant] "You’re kidding, right? The Witch Cult, here…"

[User] "Hey, what did that bastard say just now?! Did you hear that?!" Lachins kept one eye on what was happening overhead as he wove through the crowd toward Subaru, who also couldn’t take his eyes off the eccentric, despite standing apart from the rest of the audience.

[Assistant] Subaru realized letting his attention lapse would be an irrevocable mistake.

[User] "Plus, Romanée-Conti…?"

[Assistant] "Don’t tell me all the Archbishops of the Seven Deadly Sins use the same family name…"

[User] "—Gotta nab ’em and make ’em spill the beans."

[Assistant] He calmed his blazing heart, focusing on the link with Beatrice within his chest.

[User] Subaru attempts to call Beatrice.

[Assistant] Sirius claps their hands together.

[User] "—? !" His attempt to call Beatrice was terminated, abruptly blown away by a dry, rupturing sound.


[User] Subaru’s breath caught from the noise, which was so loud that it seemed to reach every corner of the city and rocked the square itself. Then, looking down upon the multitude frozen with shock, the eccentric’s exposed, lolling eye wandered around.

[Assistant] “It took twenty-two seconds before everyone fell silent. But I thank you for quieting down. I am sorry. I am also very happy. And…” Speaking sarcasm along with their thanks, the eccentric—Sirius—kept both hands together as their body swayed. Sirius really did seem to be enjoying the show, but the crude-looking chains hanging from both hands continued to undermine that impression. The discordant sound of the hooks scraping against the tower’s platform and the chains rubbing against the walls really grated on the ears. “You and you over there, and you two sirs over there also, I am sorry. Do not be so cross. I offer you my heartfelt apology for taking up your valuable time. Sorry, and thank you.”

[User] Sirius squirmed all around while doing their best to convey sincerity.

[Assistant] Subaru noticed the three others whom Sirius had pointed at—a beast man with a sword on his hip, a woman with an eye patch, and Lachins—had all gone pale. They were probably the only ones present with any fight in them.

[User] Feeling sweat beading on his brow, Subaru cursed the stalemate he had fallen into. Allowing the Witch Cultist to take the initiative was a terrible misstep. Including Subaru, some thirty people were in the square, trapped in Sirius’s field of vision—hardly a trivial number.

[Assistant] From the expression on his bitter face, Lachins was the only one hesitant in his decision.

[User] “Yes, thank you. It would seem that everyone has calmed down a little. I understand that you are uneasy. The ring of the words Witch Cult never fails to leave a poor impression. That is why even I will not ask you to disregard this. I merely wished to have all of you give me this time today because there is something I sorely wish to confirm.”

[Assistant] “And what’s that…?”

[User] “I am sorry; please do not be noisy.”


[User] Sirius speaks, "I am not very smart, so if everyone talks at once, I won’t know what to do. And then I’ll be quite sad. That’s not good, is it? But if something’s wrong, please let me know. I’ll do my best to answer for everyone’s sake.” Sirius’s insistence on maintaining a pretense of friendliness and that somewhat logical manner of speaking only made the situation all the more unsettling. Most people also found Sirius’s fashion sense, which involved covering everything but their left eye and lips with bandages, predictably disturbing. And if wariness about this was keeping everyone from making a move—

[Assistant] “Can I take you at your word and ask a question?”

[User] When it felt like no one wanted to take the initiative and single themselves out, Subaru Natsuki raised a hand anyway. Even as he sensed a wave of surprise spreading around him, Subaru did not avert his eyes from Sirius, who was still standing overhead.

[Assistant] Looking down upon Subaru, Sirius opened their purple eye wide. "Yes! You over there, please do. Thank you. To think you were so angry before, yet now you are willing to speak with me. What a happy occasion. Ask me anything.”

[User] “I’m not sure what you want, but I have some girls waiting for me, and four of them at that. I’d like to settle this as quickly as possible and get back to them.”

[Assistant] “My! That is terrible; I am so sorry. Surely, we are troubling these girls and causing them sadness or maybe even anguish. That is wrong so very wrong impermissible unforgivable.”

[User] “Um, excuse me?” As they spoke, the cheer in Sirius’s voice faded, their gaze began to grow ominous, and they gasped in surprise when Subaru’s bewildered voice called out.

[Assistant] “Oh no, oh no, I was about to get emotional. I am so sorry. I really try to watch out, but I get easily excited. Thank you for your concern.”

[User] “…Nah, that’s fine. I’m just grateful that we can have a nice and calm conversation.”

[Assistant] “I am sorry you need be so considerate. Thank you. But it’s all right. I am famous for being one of the doves of the Witch Cult. I am quite sorry that the others are problematic children to some extent.” Something shocking dawned on Subaru as he continued having a surprisingly coherent conversation with Sirius. The unexpectedly gentle demeanor, the insistence on keeping the conversation going, and the sheer impact of the initial encounter had shoved this fact aside, but Sirius, the mystery person standing above on the tower, was a woman. Judging from the way the incredibly white fabric wrapped around her head and how it poked out from the standard Cult-issue black robe, her entire body was probably covered in bandages. Even so, Subaru had noticed telltale bulges on the chest of her tall, slender body. That combined with her manner of speech convinced him that Sirius was female.


[User] Setting aside the issue of gender, Sirius’s words and actions conveyed no sense of an immediate threat for the time being. At first, Subaru had been extremely wary, but after conversing with Sirius for a bit, he realized that she came off as more of a true human being than Priscilla did. The initial tension in everyone’s expressions fell away, leaving most people more interested in Sirius’s true intentions rather than worry and fear. In spite of the hatred he supposedly harbored toward the Archbishops of the Seven Deadly Sins, Subaru was no exception.

[Assistant] "Thank you; I am so sorry. Truly, I had not intended to surprise everyone. But I am pleased from my heart that we have overcome this and you are now lending me your ears.”

[User] “It’s not like we’ve accepted or forgiven you, but we’ll at least hear you out first.”

[Assistant] “I suppose that will do. Well then, I shall get to the point about the reason why I have appeared before you like this.” As she swayed her body and rubbed the chains on both of her hands together, the high-pitched sound tore at the air around them.

[User] Now that he took a good look, her appearance was more comical than creepy. If he thought of her as some sort of clown or entertainer, he had to wonder if she was really that far removed from someone like Liliana. Subaru’s expression softened, and the guarded walls he’d raised around his heart slowly crumbled away. There didn’t seem to be a need to call over Beatrice anymore. He’d hear Sirius out and then ask her to depart quietly. —Peaceful and proper, not making any waves whatsoever. Wasn’t that a good thing?

[Assistant] “So what did you wanna ask?”

[User] “Yeah, yeah, hurry up and ask already!”

[Assistant] “That’s right, that’s right. If ya don’t hurry up, I’ll be late for work.”

[User] When Subaru prodded her to go ahead, the people around him raised their voices, almost jeering at her. The last man pointed at the magic time crystal over Sirius’s head, an act that was enough to provoke uproarious laughter. The wave of laughter made Subaru unwittingly relax his lips. The amicable atmosphere brought a blushy smile over Sirius as she pressed her hands to her cheeks like she wasn’t sure what to do.

[Assistant] “Sorry, so sorry. I really am sorry. I know you all must be in a hurry. I will soon be finished, so please bear with me a little while longer.”

[User] “I told ya, hurry it up already—!"

[Assistant] “Yes! Well then, I shall do just that. Er, you see, there is something I wish to confirm. To come out and say it…it concerns love. Ohhh, I am so embarrassed.” Thanks to the bandages, he couldn’t see the color of her face, but Sirius was covering it with her palms to conceal her own bashfulness. The gesture made Subaru break into spontaneous laughter.


[User] Grins all around him as the gradually warming atmosphere infected others, making Sirius tremble in even greater embarrassment. "I—I expected everyone to laugh, but even so, I can’t seem to look you in the face. But thank you for listening. Thank you, and also, I have a request."

[Assistant] "A request?"

[User] "I am so sorry. Could I ask you to put up with me while I try to confirm love?" Fidgeting, Sirius rubbed the chains from both hands together as she made that request. The pathetic sight elicited a collective that’s all? from the audience.

[Assistant] His heart warmed by the sight, he politely nodded.

[User] "Really?! Thank you, thank you, and also sorry. The world truly is kind. It is kind and filled with love. I am grateful I can savor the feeling like this. We are capable of permitting and yielding to one another. That is why I say not only thank you but I am sorry."

[Assistant] "We get it already! Sirius, what are you gonna do now?"

[User] "Ahhh, so sorry!" Sirius looked deeply moved when the swordswoman with the eye patch over one eye jeered at her. The voice was casual, as if she was speaking to a friend she’d known for a decade or a classmate at a girls’ school, which seemed to help Sirius relax. As if finally remembering something, Sirius walked to the time tower window from which she had emerged, reaching her arms inside the structure. And then—

[Assistant] "I am so sorry to have kept you waiting. Come on—right this way." Calling out with a gentle voice, Sirius pulled something from beyond the window. Thrashing in Sirius’s arms was a tiny, moaning figure—a boy still early in years, his entire body firmly bound. The child, ten years old give or take, was wrapped in chains from his ankles to his shoulders; there were blood droplets where a chain had bit into his mouth. He was desperately moving what he could above his neck, tears coursing in some kind of muffled plea.

[User] "I am so sorry this is so confining. But you are a boy, so you must not cry. I wished to keep that a secret between us, but you are drenched. Now everyone will know your shame."

[Assistant] "Nn—! Nnn! !"

[User] "Yeah—! It’s embarrassin’—! !""You’re a boy! Don’t cry, don’t cry! !""There’s only three times in a man’s life that he can cry, ha-ha-ha!" Warm voices called out to the tearful boy as the audience joined Sirius in trying to console him. Overcoming the urge to be scared and cry from small frights was something everyone had to go through. There was no malice involved, but a number of the comments were rather lacking in delicacy.

[Assistant] "Yes, yes, everyone, please do not say such things.


[User] "Certainly, he is cowering a little at the moment, but this is a very brave child. Isn’t that so, young Lusbel?” With his entire body bound by chains, the kid had to weigh a fair bit, but Sirius easily carried him with one arm. Gently stroking the boy’s chestnut-colored hair, she turned him toward the crowd while praising his courage.

[Assistant] Lusbel—the boy squirming with all his might in his effort to escape from Sirius’s hand. The contrast looked humorous and laughable, just begging for someone to laugh at how pathetic he seemed. “Yes! Now then, may I have everyone’s attention? This is the young Lusbel Callard. He is a native of Pristella. He is still only nine years old. My, such fine future prospects.”

[User] “Nn! Nnn!! !”

[Assistant] “His father is Muslan Callard. He is an observer for the city waterways. His mother, Ina Callard, is currently pregnant and showing at this very moment. Will Lusbel be blessed with a younger brother or a younger sister…? Quite a happy thought regardless of which is born. Young Lusbel has a childhood friend, a cute blonde with curly hair named Tina, who he gets along with very nicely. Since the pair care deeply about each other and seem to have an ideal relationship, I spent a considerable amount of time mulling over which one I should bring here. At first, I thought I’d bring Tina, but Lusbel asked me so earnestly, it struck a chord deep within me… Therefore, I yielded to young Lusbel’s enthusiasm and had him cooperate with me. He is a very brave child. You all understand that now, don’t you?” For an instant, the tale of Lusbel’s courage was greeted by pure silence. But a moment later, riotous applause thundered in the square. The audience extolled Lusbel’s courage, regretting the way they had laughed at his tears, for he was a true hero.


[User] “Lusbel, don’t cry! You’re the best!” That was why Subaru raised his voice, celebrating the heroism of the tearful boy.

[Assistant] “That’s right, don’t you be cryin’! We know ya got stones, so hang in there till the end, kid!” Beside Subaru, Lachins had tears in the corners of his eyes as he raised a crass cheer for the boy.

[User] “That’s right, you go, Lusbel! You’re the pride of Pristella!”

[Assistant] “Lusbel! You’re marvelous! I’m sure you’ll become a fine man!” As one, the audience filled the square with cheers, applause, and acclaim for their hero Lusbel. This beautiful scene of human virtue had been made possible by the courage and dedication of a single boy. No matter how unseemly he might have looked, it was genuine courage that gave birth to true light.

[User] “Ahhh, ahhh…thank you, thank you, thank you! Ahhh, this is so wonderful! You all understand. I believed that you would trust in young Lusbel’s courage!"


[User] "After all, his way is the way of love! I thought that by knowing him, you would come to love him as well! The more you understand him, the deeper you know him—your thoughts become one, and that is love!”

[Assistant] "Thank you, Sirius! Thank you!” Sirius hoisted Lusbel aloft with both hands, the bandages on her face drenched with tears.

[User] Subaru couldn’t hold back the hot tears he hadn’t even noticed until moments ago.

[Assistant] Lachins pointed at Subaru and laughed at his free-flowing tears as he poked his shoulder. As he did so, tears trickled down his cheeks as well, and before long, everyone in the square was overcome by the same emotion. That moment, everyone’s hearts had truly become one. They were linked by an undeniable bond.

[User] “We rifts are born because we do not know one another. Conflict arises because we do not understand one another. And when we give up because we are different from one another, bonds cannot be wrought. Everyone, how are your hearts now?”

[Assistant] “It’s not like that at all! None of us is giving up! Our hearts are one!”

[User] “Thank you! Thank you! Then I take it that everyone is happy right now?”

[Assistant] “Damn right we are! It’s the first time I’ve felt like this! Thank you, Sirius! Lusbel!” With sounds of admiration and applause trained toward him, Lusbel sobbed at the highest point of the time tower.

[User] “Gu, gii! Aurr!! S-svv…sv—ve…mhhh…!” Finally, heedless of the gashes at the corners of his mouth, the boy bled as he desperately raised his voice.

[Assistant] “Young Lusbel, they extol your courage; they extol love! Look down. So many people admire you. Ahhh, thank you! I am so sorry, young Lusbel. This may not be what you intended. But now I know. The world is indeed a kind place!” Embracing Lusbel, whom she held aloft, Sirius turned her head toward the heavens as she continued in a loud voice.

[User] “Yes, there truly is love in this world. Everyone’s hearts have become one. Their feelings of happiness are the same. No one needs tragedy. A world where people must cry is nothing but a nuisance. The greatest emotions come when people’s hearts are joined together! No one needs tragedy! No one needs Wrath!”

[Assistant] “That’s right! No one needs tragedy!”

[User] “Ahhh, abominable Wrath that makes my heart tremble so! Anger—in other words, rage! If this is indeed one of the Seven Deadly Sins that afflicts human hearts, if it is fate that it can never truly be cut away, then one should fill the heart with tremendous joy until there is no room left! Just like how it fills everyone’s hearts this very moment!” Letting spittle fly, Sirius shared what she had learned about love from on high as if it were the judgment of the heavens themselves. Then from her upraised arms, she hurled the courage that had received envy from one and all into the sky.

[Assistant] “May I have your applause?"


[User] Sirius hurled Lusbel into the sky on the greatest stage imaginable.

[Assistant] Watching the boy fly toward the sun, everyone clapped. Subaru brought his hands together over and over again as hard as he could. Uproarious applause rang out, blessing Lusbel as he soared into the sky. The tiny body spun in midair, finally reaching the zenith of the throw, then proceeding to plunge straight toward the ground. He was inverted, falling toward the stone-paved square headfirst. The audience cleared his impending point of impact—applauded endlessly all the while, awaiting his triumphal return.

[User] “Nnnn! !” Lifting his head, Lusbel glared at the approaching ground and screamed. Though his strength should have been exhausted, he thrashed wildly, desperately struggling until the very, very end.

[Assistant] Sensing they had caught a glimpse of a human being truly worthy of praise, the audience was moved to tears.

[User] “—Ahhh, what a kind world! !” —just before the impact, Sirius shouted.

[Assistant] Hearing that voice, the audience’s applause became one, growing louder and louder as the echoes boomed. —Then there was a sound of something hard and fragile breaking, like an egg falling onto the floor. Everyone’s vision was filled with red. Falling headfirst onto the hard surface, the entire body crumpled, and that which had once been Lusbel transformed into a pile of crimson flesh. Fat globules of blood scattered across the square in all directions as the hero spectacularly flew apart.

[User] And then right after witnessing this—

[Assistant] —like applause that refused to end, the sound of countless eggs smashing reverberated across the square. The ground was drowned in a crimson pool of blood. That was how it ended.


[User] “After the song, we’ll have a pleasant chat, so could you prepare some snacks, Master Natsuki? Do you not think that sweets will make everyone happy and bring us all closer together?” Just after he thought he’d blinked, he saw an olive-skinned girl shoot him a clumsy wink.

[Assistant] As he watched the girl sticking her tongue out in a playful pose, Subaru Natsuki forgot to breathe. When he shifted his unsteady gaze, he saw a silver-haired girl with a soft, charming smile beside him, and also standing there was a redheaded girl, arms crossed with an arrogant look on her face. Then he noticed the presence of a little girl in a dress gently holding his hand—

[User] “Errr, is something amiss? Ignoring? Are you ignoring me? P-please cut that out; it’s very depressing… Aah, cut—cut that out… D-don’t sigh after listening to my song… Don’t make such a sad face; forgive meee…!” As Subaru fell into complete silence, the girl before his eyes—Liliana—was trembling awkwardly as if she was undergoing some kind of trauma.

[Assistant] “…I feel sick.”

[User] “Wha—?! H-how can this be?! How can you look at a girl’s face and say something so cruel?! Liliana has never been humiliated like this before!!”


[User] "My goodness, on behalf of Master Natsuki’s mother, I am completely embarrassed for you!! Compwetewy!! Embawwassed! !" As Liliana faked anguished tears, her mouth bled from the impressive way she had bitten her tongue.

[Assistant] His head was heavy. His vision was flickering. Unable to stand, he sank to his knees then and there.

[User] "Subaru?! What’s wrong?"

[Assistant] "Wait a—What happened, I wonder?! Subaru, Subaru?" Emilia and Beatrice peered at Subaru’s face as he hugged the floor.

[User] With a face so pale that the two unwittingly gasped—"I feel sick."

[Assistant] His knees continued trembling as nausea welled up. "I feel sick."

[User] The shock was almost impossible to endure. He felt revolted by the corruption that made his insides roil. His mind and body were buffeted by raging waves of loss. Subaru Natsuki was overwhelmed by a disgust that outweighed even the horror of death. In his memory of the moment just prior to his death, the past felt like the blink of an eye to him. He remembered how the corruption of his soul had blotted out his mind and left him unable to recognize the abnormal for what it was. And then he recalled the mysterious behavior of that disciple of abomination— —Archbishop of Wrath, Sirius Romanée-Conti. Without any doubt, the being was one of the Archbishops of the Seven Deadly Sins, kin to Sloth and Greed and Gluttony. They were all envoys of vice and destruction, embodiments of nightmares that by rights should not exist. The feeling of losing himself, of ceasing to be himself only to eventually return, was a first even for him.

[Assistant] "I feel sick."

[User] The horrifying experience made him shudder. Feeling a chill coming on, Subaru trembled uncontrollably. Like an old friend celebrating their reunion, death had clawed Subaru Natsuki to pieces. What’s more, Subaru hadn’t even realized it yet. He was only tens of minutes before the scene of his death, from which he had just returned. The time limit was approaching again, at which point he would have to rise, clench his teeth, and fight. A maelstrom of death enveloped Subaru Natsuki once more.


[User] "—I’m not actually the legitimate son of the Juukulius house." Sitting formally on the ground in front of the campfire, Julius murmured those words with a gloomy tint to his eyes.

[Assistant] Subaru listened as he combed Beatrice’s hair while she sat on his knee.

[User] "So why did you pick this exact moment to drop such a massive revelation on us?"

[Assistant] "Apologies. I was just thinking that if I let this moment pass, I wasn’t sure when I would get another chance." Subaru furrowed his brow as Julius responded, not looking nearly as apologetic as his words suggested.

[User] "So by not the legitimate son, you mean…?"

[Assistant] "In the sense that I am not the direct son of the current head of the Juukulius house. Alviero Juukulius, the current head, is my adoptive father. My father is his younger brother, Klein Juukulius. When my father passed away, my current family took me in."

[User] "I see… Oh, then that means you have two fathers and two mothers."

[Assistant] Julius’s eyes widened for a moment. He almost seemed amazed by the idea, but then his expression softened slightly. "That’s right." He nodded, still smiling.

[User] "? What? Did I say something strange?"

[Assistant] "No, not at all. If anything, it was just quintessential Emilia-tan. Very E M T."

[User] "Sorry, I have no clue what you are talking about." Subaru grimaced as Emilia pouted. She was practically sulking.

[Assistant] He wasn’t trying to be sarcastic or anything of the sort, though. If he was being honest, her completely innocent and naturally kind way of thinking had been incredibly moving, and Julius probably felt the same way. That was why he was just playing with his bangs like always.


[User] “A hell that even Reinhard failed to get through… Like I told the man himself, that phrase seriously makes you lose hope the moment you hear it.”

[Assistant] The fact that he couldn’t break through those sandy dunes made it feel like they were about to challenge something humans were never meant to overcome.

[User] “That just means we have to do the impossible. This is a rescue mission, not a suicide mission.”

[Assistant] No matter how hopeless the odds seemed, they would have to find a way to persevere. The purpose of this journey was to give hope to all the people whose futures had been stolen away, to grant them the right to have a tomorrow again.

[User] “Your face is getting scary, Subaru.” Beatrice pokes his cheek, leaning with her whole body against his chest.

[Assistant] “If you’re going to worry so much that it turns your head to mush, then you might as well focus on our skinship instead. Or else Betty’s adorableness will go to waste.” Fiddling with her hair, she looked at him fondly with those distinctive eyes of hers.

[User] “What are you talking abou…? Holy crap, it’s true! I can see your cuteness evaporating into the air!”

[Assistant] “It is not! How rude! Betty is as lovely as always!” She puffed out her cheeks and jumped down from his lap.

[User] “I’m just kidding.” Subaru said with a laugh.

[Assistant] Beatrice was unconvinced and went straight to Emilia, who was waving her over. She leaned against Emilia’s chest as Emilia smiled.

[User] “Emilia, it’s about time for bed. Staying up all night is bad for the body.”

[Assistant] “That’s right. Why don’t you sleep with me tonight as punishment for Subaru being mean."

[User] “A fitting punishment.” The two of them were in total agreement that Subaru was the bad guy. Beatrice rubbed her eyes sleepily as Emilia took her by the hand.

[Assistant] She glanced at Subaru while leading the little girl away.


[User] After watching them go back to the dragon carriage, Julius spoke up. “Those two are quite charming together.”

[Assistant] “They look like the best of buds, right? Just a little over a year ago, they couldn’t have been more different.”

[User] “It’s hard to believe…in a single year? If you were involved, I suppose it’s possible.”

[Assistant] Subaru scratched his cheek as Julius looked at him, a twinkle in his eye. There was no denying that Subaru’s presence was a part of it, but he felt acknowledging that fact would just come off as self-centered, so he quickly changed the subject. “So about what you were saying before.”

[User] “You mean about my family?”

[Assistant] “Right."


[User] Emilia is a bit airheaded, and Beako was considerate enough not to say anything, but talking about the past in a situation like this is…”

[Assistant] Interrupting Subaru as he struggled to get the words out, Julius slowly shook his head. “I know. I’m sorry if it added another burden.”

[User] Seeing the way he was acting, Subaru grimaced internally, like he had bitten into something especially bitter.

[Assistant] Subaru was painfully familiar with that feeling of despair that came with being isolated from the rest of the world.

[User] “It’s hard to relax with you staring at me like that, Subaru. If you have something to say, then why not just come out and say it?”

[Assistant] “You’re…tch, you’re a real piece of work, you know that?” Subaru looked away. One time I show a genuine bit of concern for him, this is what I get. That’s the “finest knight” for you.

[User] “The only thing I want to do is register a complaint. Don’t go bringing up stuff like that out of nowhere. It ruins the mood. And it’s not something you should be telling me anyway.”

[Assistant] “That’s not true. It’s nothing particularly special. Reinhard and Ferris know, and it is common knowledge among the other knights. Lady Anastasia also knows, of course. Or I should say, she knew.”

[Assistant] “It’s something that everyone knew. Which is probably why I wanted you to know it, too. Other than myself, you’re the person in this world who knows me best now.” After saying that in a soft, tranquil voice, Julius stood up. Gently brushing off his legs, the finest knight looked down at Subaru, who was still sitting next to the fire. “It’s about time for me to rest. What about you?”

[User] “I… I’m going to watch the fire a little bit longer. It’s a safe road, but it’s still better to have someone on lookout.”

[Assistant] “Understood. Then I’ll rest first.” With those parting words and a quiet nod, Julius left the fire and returned to the carriage.


[User] Alone with his thoughts, Subaru stared at the flames and touched his right leg—the scar of the wound he had received in Pristella, the black pattern that wouldn’t disappear. “…What was that…?” It was soft, almost indignant. He didn’t know whether he was talking about Julius or himself, but either way, an odd feeling of annoyance had gotten caught up like a little bone lodged in his throat. “Agh, damn it. What am I, stupid? …Yeah, I guess I am…” Scratching his head, he vented his annoyance. It wasn’t going to make anything better, but he couldn’t bring himself to not say anything, either. He glared at the fire when a voice called out.

[Assistant] “—No need to go blamin’ yourself so much, is there?” It was an elegant, reserved voice coming from behind him. Subaru stopped scratching his head. Slowly turning around, he saw a girl with her hands clasped behind her back. “It’s hard to tell what I should call you on the spur of the moment…”

[User] “You can just call me Anastasia now and every other time, too. If you don’t, it’ll be a problem for me.” The first half of what she said had an entirely different tone from the second half. Almost as if the person talking switched in the middle. Of course, the voice itself was the same throughout. But the rightful controller of that body was no longer actually in control.

[Assistant] “Foxidna…”

[User] “I’m not particularly attached to my name, but I can’t deny that I feel a little bit of resistance at being called that, Natsuki.” The woman whose pale blue-green eyes were squinting at him was Anastasia Hoshin. Or at least, the body belonged to the royal candidate. However, someone else was inside. Something else. At present, her body was being occupied by the white fox scarf wrapped around her neck—the man-made spirit Echidna in disguise. It was like a bad joke. An artificial spirit with the same name as the Witch of Greed was joining Subaru and company on their journey, all while continuing to deny that she was said witch. Her presence was headache-inducing.

[Assistant] “I wish you wouldn’t be so suspicious of me. I’ve explained before that this situation isn’t what I wanted, either. I even took the job of acting as your guide on this dangerous trip.”

[User] Despite acknowledging that, Subaru couldn’t get over the fact that she shared a certain witch’s name. “Even so, my stance is that your creator is never to be trusted. Believe me, I’d trust you if I could. It would be easier that way.”

[Assistant] “Dearie me. My creator who I can’t even remember must have really done a number on you.”

[Assistant] “Anyway, don’t get so upset.”