[User] She’d opened every single door on that floor in the west wing. And yet, Beatrice was not there. The battle was still raging. Petra had to find her soon, so very soon. If she didn’t, Frederica would…

[Assistant] "Miss Frederica…!" Even though she had to keep running, strength drained from Petra’s feet little by little. Using her hands, which were shaking so hard that she could not clench them into fists, she struck her own legs over and over. She needed to rouse her battered spirit and continue the search for Beatrice. And yet, her courage was insufficient. Her tears kept flowing.

[User] "—Subaruuu!" When her weakness slipped out, Petra spoke a single boy’s name, as if clinging to it for dear life. To Petra, this was the name of the bravest person in the whole world. He was someone with incredible courage, who forced his trembling legs to face an opponent he knew he could not defeat. When Petra and the others from the village were truly in danger, when they really might have died, he was the one who’d rushed off first and saved them—and so she called his name. Even though, in that moment, she understood he wasn’t there to save her.

[Assistant] "Subaru, Subaru… Save me, Subaruuu!"

[User] "You got it. Sure thing, Petra."

[Assistant] "—Eh?" Covering her face with her hands, Petra was trying to stop her tears when she unwittingly held her breath. Between her fingers, in her teary, hazy vision, there was someone right in front of her. This person was kneeling to match heights with Petra, who was crouching, meeting her at eye level.

[User] "Sorry I’m late. But I’m here to help… I’m glad you’re safe, Petra." The person, who had a face with a familiar foul look, shot her a reassuring smile. As much as he tried to be considerate, his expression was not gentle in the slightest—which was why it relieved Petra to the very bottom of her heart.

[Assistant] "Is that you, Subaru…? You came?"

[User] "It’s me, and I came. I’m back safe and sound, all thanks to your charm, Petra." Nodding, Subaru lifted up his right hand—showing the white handkerchief tied around his wrist. It was pretty dirty, but it was the same charm Petra had entrusted to Subaru on the day he had departed. It was neither a hallucination nor a dream. Subaru had come back. When Petra reached out to touch his cheek, he gently guided her hand to his face and rubbed her back. His touch calmed her heart. She wanted to gently let her consciousness yield to the relief. But she could not—not yet.

[Assistant] "Subaru, Miss Frederica is on the floor… There’s a scary person in black with a really big knife…"

[User] "A scary person in black with a big knife. Yeah, got it." This fragmentary explanation of her features left Subaru nodding like he understood everything. Both understood the gravity of the situation. Within Subaru’s arms, Petra desperately pointed toward the ceiling.

[Assistant] "Please save Miss Frederica!"


[User] "Subaru, get that woman! !"

[Assistant] "All right, leave it to me!! …That’s what I’d like to say, but if I go up against someone Frederica can’t beat, I’ll be a corpse in one second! !"

[Assistant] “—Which is why I brought superstrong reinforcements to help me out.” When Petra was momentarily at a loss for words, Subaru stroked her head as a smile crossed his foul-looking face.

[User] From there, he turned his gaze upward, and as feelings of relief and worry mixed together in his black eyes…"Lot of uninvited guests in the way of tonight’s dramatic reunion scene, though…”


[Assistant] It was too crude a battle to be called a duel to the death.

[User] “—Shiii!” Waving her right arm around, she repeatedly slammed through the opening created by one of the iron-skewer attacks.

[Assistant] The woman swung her body up and down, left and right, leisurely evading the flurry of attacks with the elegance of a leaf swaying in the wind.

[User] When she leaped back to evade the black blade that had appeared, iron skewers flew at her in midair, giving her no chance to evade them.

[Assistant] Frederica’s arm, wrapped in thick fur and muscle, was easily penetrated by the sharp iron skewers.

[User] Gritting her teeth at the pain, which felt like she had just been burned, Frederica swung her arm, sending the iron skewers flying.

[Assistant] It was not a fatal blow. Still, her wounds were gradually increasing, and her endurance was being whittled away.

[User] Compared with Frederica’s labored breathing, the woman with the long, swaying triple braids was not even slightly out of breath.

[Assistant] The difference in their fighting strength was crystal clear.

[User] The fact that Frederica was still alive simply meant her opponent wasn’t being serious, and—

[Assistant] “—What is this compulsion of yours to aim only below my breasts?”

[User] "If you must ask, it’s my hobby, or perhaps, I should call it my way of life. I am the Bowel Hunter, after all. Spilling your innards is my creed.”

[Assistant] She had not spoken in jest. She was completely serious, something that made Frederica’s body shudder.

[User] This was no joke.

[Assistant] The woman was serious. Nor was her calling this abnormality her creed a lie.

[User] The fact that Frederica had barely managed to stay alive was because the woman had been aiming only for her abdomen.

[Assistant] “However, I do not have too much time to play. If possible, I must strip you of your limbs and go capture the girl from before. You get along so well; I think it would be nice to open you both side by side.”

[User] “Unfortunately, your benevolence does not resonate with me whatsoever—! !”

[Assistant] She knew the woman was toying with her— Therefore, she had to settle this while she was still in a mood to play around.

[User] Explosively launching off her hind legs, Frederica barreled toward the woman with speed she hadn’t revealed yet.

[Assistant] She’d hidden the transfiguration of her legs up to this point.


[User] If she sprinted seriously, Frederica could outpace the wind itself. Approaching at breakneck speed, she would claw out the woman’s vitals. Or if she could merely graze the body with her claws—

[Assistant] “—I believe that charging straight in is a little simple of you.”

[User] “Wha…?” The instant she thought her bestial claws had hit their mark, the woman vanished into thin air. Slamming down hard enough to shred the carpet, Frederica then looked up to the ceiling and gaped.

[Assistant] Having leaped straight up, the woman attached herself to the ceiling and proceeded to begin jumping from there to the corridor wall, to the ceiling again, and then to the floor, all however she pleased.

[User] “—Damn spider woman! !”

[Assistant] “I was called that in the capital, too. I thought it rather rude at the time…” Raising a voice of dismay, the woman approached from up and down, left and right. Frederica could track motion far better than the average person, but she could not even follow the woman’s shadow as it flitted around in the moonlight.

[User] “—After you fall, I would appreciate you showing me what your innards look like in your current form.”

[Assistant] The moment after she heard that whisper, Frederica resigned herself to death. Various feelings raced through the back of her mind in the span of a single instant… They were about the Sanctuary, about her coworkers, about her pretty junior, about the people she had served, about her family. About her little brother. These—

[User] “Oh my.” This dejected voice was accompanied by a clash that sounded like thunder. The roar of steel colliding with steel rang out, and a shock wave shot through the corridor, cracking its windows. Then as the shock wave passed without stopping down the corridor, a single man’s voice echoed through it.

[Assistant] “—Accordin’ to the general, there’s a sayin’ that goes offense is the best defense.” It was a low voice, yet it held irrepressible anger within. As he spoke, both his arms—or more precisely, the two silver shields covering his fists—intercepted the woman’s knife, sending it bouncing back spectacularly. The force sent the woman leaping far to the rear. The man did not pursue her as he powerfully pounded the two shields together in front of his chest.

[User] “If ya can use shields to defend and attack…that means puttin’ the best offense and the best defense together, givin’ the best of both worlds, huh?” It was simple, even infantile, and furthermore, it was the sort of logic a naughty child would think of. But the man had used that childish logic to great effect, equipping both arms with one shield each, employing them as his own weapons.

[Assistant] The man with short, combed-back hair boldly thrust his chest out as he turned toward Frederica.

[User] “Don’t ya think so, Si—? Whoa, you’re huge?


[User] “!” Instantly, the gravitas of a full-fledged warrior dissipated, and the man—nay, the boy—opened his jade eyes wide, his inner turmoil plain as he gazed at Frederica from head to toe. “S-seriously?! Is that really you, Sis?! The Sis I know was supposed to be this smaller, thinner, gentle, and delicate li’l thing, wasn’t she?! This is closer to a big bro than a big si… Ogoah? !”

[Assistant] “You should not say such rude things upon meeting someone!” Frederica rammed her knee into the boy, who’d given her one glance before he started ranting. The single blow sent the boy to his knees. As Frederica saw him wail with a gueh, she noticed it…the white scar on his forehead. “You’re… Are you Garf?”

[User] “Don’t kick people before ya figure that out. That’s how the real Frederica would…gueh!”

[Assistant] “Do not go casually addressing your older sister by name.” In the middle of moving to get up, Garfiel sank once more from a backhanded blow to the rear of his skull. The sight made Frederica remember her younger days. Back in the Sanctuary, the siblings amused themselves not with toys but by fighting each other. With a nine-year age gap between them, Frederica’s larger frame let her win handily against Garfiel. It was as if nothing had changed since then. “No. Garf, you’ve grown so big…”

[User] “Right now, hearin’ that from Sis sounds like sarcasm! I’ll have ya know, I’m definitely gettin’ bigger from here on out! Ya won’t be lookin’ down on me forever!”

[Assistant] “Tee-hee, let me correct myself. Your body has grown a little larger, but you remain very small inside.”

[User] “What was that? !” Baring his fangs, Garfiel seemed ready to fight to prove his sister wrong. Despite the timing, this exchange with her younger brother after a separation of ten years left Frederica with an almost unbelievable sense of happiness. She’d always hoped that someday, the day would come when she could meet Garfiel outside the Sanctuary. This was probably someone’s doing. Ram? Emilia? Or perhaps Subaru? “Also, there was Master Otto, wasn’t there…?”

[Assistant] “Ha! Don’t even bother mentionin’ that bro. The Migredo family’s bridge falls all the time. He’s in such a tough spot, even I feel for ’im.” Not that he was one to talk, but Otto’s face, dejected from so much being said about him, came to mind. He somehow grasped that the man had talent, but he just gave off an aura that made you want to mouth off.

[User] “Well then, may I finally interfere with your reunion, I wonder?” Interrupting the sibling conversation from another part of the corridor, the woman smiled thinly.

[Assistant] “Well, ain’t that considerate of ya to wait this long. At the rate we were goin’, I was about to forget about beatin’ your ass and just go home. I don’t like poundin’ women much, see.” Garfiel made a gesture toward her as if shooing away a fly.

[User] “Oh my, how kind of you.”


[User] The sight made Frederica raise her eyebrows. "Garf, underestimating that woman due to her appearance will only get you hurt."

[Assistant] "Ha! When it comes down to it, the only one I treat in this world as a woman is Ram."

[User] "I am certain you think that sounds manly, but it would make Ram laugh out loud."

[Assistant] "What'd ya say?!" Frederica had a look of disbelief as Garfiel turned toward her indignantly.


[User] That instant, a pitch-black disc flew from the murderous woman's hand at incredible speed—no, this was no disc.

[Assistant] This was a large knife spinning with incredible speed. Leaving even the sound of ripping the air trailing behind, the blade sailed toward Garfiel's head.

[User] "Now, hold on." A mere instant before it split his head apart, Garfiel agilely used his left arm to deflect the disc.

[Assistant] The skillful alteration of the disc's angle sent the knife gliding straight up, making a high-pitched sound as it impaled the ceiling above.

[User] "Me, I said I wanted to head back straightaway, ya know?"

[Assistant] "—Yes, and this is my reply." Drawing a spare to replace the knife she had thrown, the woman advanced, her posture making it seem like she was crawling over the floor. Gripping the knife in a different way than the one she had hurled, the woman aimed to sever both Garfiel's ankles.

[User] But watching the combat unfold from behind him, Frederica caught sight of another threat.

[Assistant] —A string attached to the hilt of the knife impaling the ceiling drew taut, pulling it straight toward the back of Garfiel’s head—he couldn’t even see it coming.

[User] "Garf—"

[Assistant] Oh no ya don’t! !" It was a roar from none other than Garfiel that blotted out Frederica’s shriek.

[User] Garfiel howled, and he instantly moved his left hand with explosive, overwhelming force. His arm, thick and covered with golden fur, was a savage thing on a clearly different level compared with Frederica's transformation.

[Assistant] "I'm sendin' ya packin', bastard! !"

[User] Surprise ran across even the assailant's eyes, and Garfiel did not let that opportunity slip. He tilted his head in response to the blade from behind, just enough to get his vitals out of the way while prioritizing offense. With the shield on his mighty arm, he blocked the woman's blade, and a creaking sound arose as the woman was sent flying.

[Assistant] Letting out a painful yelp, the woman rolled. Glancing at that, Garfiel pulled the knife out of his shoulder.

[User] "Ha! Even without his arms, Kurgan felled his foe, ya know! If ya think I'm shakin' in my boots over one arm, ya got another thing coming, idiot!"

[Assistant] "You're the idiot!"

[User] "Adahhh? !" While Garfiel was celebrating his victory, his older sister angrily slammed her fist into the back of his skull.

[Assistant] "Fighting as if you're trying to get yourself injured… Grandmother would cry if she saw this!"

[User] "Ugh…n-not like I care what the old hag thinks of this…" Frederica’s lecture made Garfiel look away as he excused himself.


[User] Sighing deeply at her own younger brother’s attitude, Frederica was also surprised at his strength. One might even say she was moved by it. Garfiel had studied hard over these ten years they had spent apart.

[Assistant] "—Nicely done. Nicely done indeed. A truly active child. Quite marvelous.” Her voice shuddering with admiration, the woman stood up with blood trickling from the corner of her lips. However, the woman merrily licked it, smiling, her cheeks reddening as if enamored.

[User] “Hey, Fre… Sis, you know this chick named Rem?”

[Assistant] “—? Y-yes, she is here at the mansion. I heard from Master Subaru that she is Ram’s younger sister.” Garfiel’s sudden shift to a completely disconnected subject left Frederica bewildered. From the girl’s external appearance, there was no doubting she was Ram’s younger sister, yet she existed nowhere in Frederica’s memories. The still-sleeping girl had fallen out of her recollections, as had whatever relationship she might have had with her.

[User] “She looks like Ram?”

[Assistant] “Exactly like her. However, you may not use her as a substitute.”

[User] “Like I’d do some scumbag thing like that. Just wanted to check for sure—Sis, I got a favor to ask.” Cutting off his words, Garfiel continued glaring at the woman as he spoke to Frederica. “When ya see the chance, take this Rem chick and go. Me, I’m gonna have my hands full with this one.”

[Assistant] “Wh-what are you saying?! I will fight also! The two of us together can…”

[User] “I wonder. Can you, really?” Garfiel was trying to fight alone.

[Assistant] Frederica sternly glared at her. "I would rather you not make such a scary face, though. Besides, I believe your younger brother can attest that my opinion is not off the mark.”

[User] “…Garf?” The woman’s words brought a questioning look over Frederica’s face as she called out to her younger brother.

[Assistant] “Sorry, Sis. This ain’t some half-hearted opponent ya can take on while watchin’ out for someone behind ya.”

[User] “Wha…? !”

[Assistant] “Hey, don’t misunderstand, Sis. It ain’t like I’m sayin’ you’d be in the way or anything.” There’s no other way to take it, thought Frederica, but Garfiel kept glaring at the woman as he responded to Frederica’s dubious gaze. “I figure if she ’n’ I get serious, the area around us is gonna take one hell of a beatin’.” Garfiel pointed to himself and then toward the woman.

[User] The joyful smile that came over the woman seemed to agree with his words as she toyed with her long, triple-braided hair and leaned forward. “I suppose so. I’m sure it will be so… Therefore, I think it is best that you step back.”


[User] Frederica, understanding her power excluded her from that realm, felt her body seemingly catch on fire with regrets. —To have spent ten years for the sake of reuniting with her younger brother, yet be unable to give him any help when he needed it most…

[Assistant] “Don’t go thinkin’ about no silly things like that, Sis.”

[User] “Garf…”

[Assistant] “Ya see my arm, right? These shields, they’re the ones I used to play with you when I was a li’l brat. Back when I was runnin’ round with you all day long—that was the startin’ point of me becomin’ the greatest.”

[User] This time, Garfiel’s words truly surprised Frederica. His tone of voice, which betrayed no consideration, no consolation, no such emotions whatsoever, set Frederica’s chest ablaze, for she felt a tangible sense that her younger brother had grown in her absence.

[Assistant] “The general taught me the power of numbers the hard way, but unfortunately, this is where the other extreme comes into play…” With his elder sister’s gaze still on him and maintaining the brunt of his enemy’s focus, Garfiel stepped forward.

[User] “—So come get some. I’m celebratin’ leavin’ the Sanctuary. The party starts now and lasts till I smash apart the first wall standin’ in my way! !”


[Assistant] From the driver’s seat of the dragon carriage, which was running at full speed, Subaru lifted up four fingers as he gave his explanation.

[User] “Okay? The people who need to be rescued in the mansion number four in total, all girls.” The landscape sped by as the dragon carriage took advantage of its wind repel blessing to race along a neglected road. Relying once more on the land dragon who had saved him over and over, Subaru nodded toward his fellow passengers with a dead-serious face.

[Assistant] “There’s basically no time to spare…or rather, whatever the timing, the assassins will definitely launch their attack the moment we arrive. We’ve got to rescue every last one of the four.”

[User] “So for buyin’ time…there’s Sis, and that’s about it, huh? Man, already been ten years since I’ve seen her face…” Garfiel crinkled his nose, with Subaru’s words leaving him in an awkward state. He had stayed in the Sanctuary, remained there out of stubbornness for many years. No doubt he felt plenty guilty for having pegged Frederica a traitor when she had been busy trying to create a place for him in the outside world.

[Assistant] “Well, just gotta ask you to put that aside with a poof and make up real fast with a pshaw.”

[User] “Poof and pshaw… General, c’mon!”

[Assistant] “But on a more serious note, we really must defer our complaints. That said, you truly have not spoken to her even once since the separation?


[User] According to Miss Ram, there did seem to be some comings and goings with the Sanctuary, so have you sent a letter, perhaps?”

[Assistant] “Me, I didn’t send any, and the ones that came… I handed ’em all to the old hag without readin’ ’em.” Garfiel made a pouting face as Subaru and Otto went “Ah!” and covered their faces.

[User] Otto covers his face.

[Assistant] Subaru covers his face.

[User] His attitude toward his sister was completely, 100 percent that of a child. Their reunion would surely be quite a moving thing to see.

[Assistant] “I am worried about Miss Frederica, but the one in the most danger would be Petra, yes?”

[User] “Yeah, I think so. Petra is Roswaal Manor’s new maid… She’s a sharp cookie with a bright future. Special attention required.”

[Assistant] Subaru concurred with Otto’s opinion. As a matter of fact, Petra’s projected death rate was 100 percent unless they did something. Of course, the other three were also in peril, but in Petra’s case, her lack of combat ability was a fatal flaw. Though, in terms of being unable to fight back, there was one other in identical danger—

[User] “There’s Rem… Ram’s little sister. I’m sure Garfiel doesn’t remember her, though…”

[Assistant] “Me, I still half don’t believe it. Ya said she’s exactly like Ram, like a twin? If I’ve known her for a long time like that, would I really forget?”

[User] He understood why Garfiel found it difficult to swallow. But the attack Rem suffered obliterated her existence, causing even her older sister, Ram, to forget her. Thinking about that made Subaru’s chest tighten as he continued. “But there’s a silver lining to this. I’m just guessing, but Rem probably isn’t a target of the assassins. Just from the fact that they were hired…because Rem…” Fell off the edge of the world.

[Assistant] “…However, if they find Miss Rem at the mansion, she will not escape unscathed. Is that not so?” Otto’s words made him listlessly nod.

[User] Subaru understood what he meant. The assassins—Elsa and Meili—were not good-natured professionals. They were morally bankrupt people who thought nothing of involving innocents. Rem and the people of Earlham Village were thoroughly unsafe around them.

[Assistant] “We must pray that the opponent does not begin by opening the door to the room where Miss Rem sleeps… To be honest, I cannot call depending on the enemy a sound plan.”

[User] “…I’ll be depending on you and the enemy both. That’s Subaru Natsuki’s Reverse Fuurinkazan tactical doctrine.”

[Assistant] “S-so cool…! !”

[User] Subaru couldn’t deny that the conditions were pretty desperate, but Garfiel’s eyes were glimmering. This all-too-fitting reaction pained his heart, but after all the current business was taken care of, he really needed to make some time and give Garfiel a lecture about real tactics taught by Sun Tzu. And while it was fine and well to imagine a happy, peaceful future—

[Assistant] “I’ve gotta say, this has been really freaking me out hard. Is this actually helping?”


[User] "Me, I ain’t doin’ this ’cause I wanna." Subaru's words and oddly indecisive attitude made Garfiel clack his fangs in dismay. Subaru understood Garfiel’s point, but he wanted him to appreciate how it made others feel. After all, that moment, Garfiel was outside, leaning into the dragon carriage, participating in the conversation as he held on to the windowsill. Under the windowsill, Garfiel was running at full speed immediately beside one of the dragon carriage’s wagon wheels. The soles of his feet were pounding hard into the ground. Of course, this wasn’t something he had come up with for no purpose, but…

[Assistant] "Look, I defeated an enemy before by dragging him into a wagon wheel, so I’m scared about accidents… If you make one false move and end up getting scattered across the countryside, I’m gonna have PTSD for sure, and then I’ll be out of options for the mansion, too…"

[User] "Wha? General, you’re a worrywart, aren’t ya? It’s all right, sheesh. See, seeee!"

[Assistant] "Stop it!! You’re killin’ me!! I’ll die before you do!" Garfiel started to play around while still hanging alongside, making Subaru raise a wail in complaint.

[User] "Either way, Garfiel’s blessing of the earth spirit has no effect unless his feet are on the ground, so let us pass this off as a necessary measure to ensure Garfiel’s as close to tip-top condition as possible."

[Assistant] "But from the outside, this looks like we’re doing our best to shake off a guy who’s desperately trying to get inside the carriage. Plus we actually are dragging along a delusional fourteen-year old."

[User] "You do realize that if anyone saw this, neither the truth nor what it seems like would save my reputation, yes?!"

[Assistant] Otto, holding the reins, wailed; Subaru nodded, too.


[User] "Also, one last thing, General. We stopped the talk midway—only heard ’bout three people so far."

[Assistant] "—Yeah." Garfiel lifted up his body and peered into the dragon carriage. He directed the question toward Subaru, but he also sent Otto a questioning look.

[User] Otto shook his head. "Unfortunately, I have not met the final person, either."


[User] "But according to what we heard from Miss Shima, she is someone in a somewhat difficult position, it would seem.”

[Assistant] “Bro, did ya somehow make someone hate you before you even met them? You all right?”

[User] “I’d like to believe that’s not why we haven’t had a chance to meet yet!” Otto put on a desperate look as he made his rebuttal, seeing the disquiet in Garfiel’s eyes.

[Assistant] Turning toward the pair, Subaru did not use the timid word probably. “The last person…is Beatrice. I have to be the one to bring her out.”

[User] “I’ll bring Beatrice out. I’ll drag her out. I have to do it.”

[Assistant] “If that’s what the general says, that’s how it’s gonna be.”

[User] “We really must deftly evacuate the nearby villagers, too, to avoid unforeseen circumstances. I suppose it would be best if I was in charge of this.”

[Assistant] “Thanks, you pair of idiots.”

[User] “You are truly incapable of giving even simple thanks, you single idiot! !”


[Assistant] Subaru stepped into the archive. “The Sanctuary made me think of a lot of little things like that. As the librarian, what do you think?”

[User] “—Why…?”

[Assistant] “…Why have you come here, I wonder? I do not remember inviting you.”

[User] “Sorry, but I’m a man who shows up whether he’s been invited or not. Back in middle school, I popped up at a classmate’s birthday party uninvited.


[User] "Can’t forget how awkward that was at the time.” Naturally, even Subaru had endeavored to pay more heed to the atmosphere after an experience like that. But of course, he was the most boisterous of anyone that day by far, and no one ever invited him to a birthday thereafter. “That actually hurt me so much that it was almost like my chest got cut open, so I’ll set that story aside for another time."

[Assistant] "This time or next, will you begin speaking of it whenever it pleases you, I wonder…? You are an arbitrary man in every respect."

[User] “Yeah, I am. That’s why I came here whether you like it or not.” He knew that the girl before him had drawn in her breath. With a theatrical gesture, Subaru bowed, seemingly to work himself into the girl’s blue eyes. And then—

[Assistant] “I’m getting you out of here, Beatrice— This time, my hand’s gonna lead you right out under the big ol’ sun, and we’ll play around until that dress is totally black from mud.”

[User] Faced with Subaru’s provocative words, the girl—Beatrice—remained seated on the same stool as she always did, clutching her own book. With those arms still wrapped tight around her black-bound book, she stared at Subaru, trembling.


[Assistant] "Ah…" A faint first gasp slipped from his lips. It was terribly hoarse and lifeless, but it was unmistakably his own voice.

[User] Making sure he wasn’t a being with some completely different set of values that—

[Assistant] "Subaru? Are you awake?" A sweet, silvery voice rang in his ears.

[User] "...Emilia…?" He weakly said her name.

[Assistant] "Yes. Are you all right, Subaru? Can you sit up? Can you talk?"

[User] "Uhhh…"


[User] Her expression relaxed into a small smile, and the long, silver hair flowing down her alabaster shoulders looked like moonbeams. This dazzling display of beauty struck Subaru right in the heart. —A girl who was completely out of this world had descended before him. “Ugh…ah…”

[Assistant] The moment that thought crossed his mind, blood raced to his cheeks. His face was bright red, his eyes swam, and words failed him. The pounding in his ears was so loud it almost hurt. At last, he started babbling incoherently. “Awawawawa…”

[User] “Awawa…?” When she saw how shaken he was, Emilia furrowed her beautiful brow. Even that tiny gesture was mind-blowing. It almost felt like the greatest artist of the era was showing him a second masterpiece. And he was observing it up close—so close, he could feel her breath. ""What is this? What’s happening? Is any of this real? Or is it just a crazy, convincing illusion? Like, when you see a mirage in the desert, it’s always an oasis… That’s just seeing what you want most in that moment, right? If that’s the rule, then is this also a mirage? What an extravagant—”

[Assistant] “A-are you all right, Subaru? I think there might be something wrong. You did take a tumble.”

[User] “Hyah!”

[Assistant] “See, you just made a weird sound!” Subaru was a complete mess. The moment Emilia’s hand touched his forehead, he jolted. Her eyes flashed, as she was now completely convinced that something was definitely wrong. The fact that he could feel her hand disproved his whole Emilia-mirage theory, which made him feel like a scholar of geocentrism. More importantly, she was real. This Emilia really did exist. And if she was real and calling him Subaru, then he was indeed Subaru Natsuki. And of course—


[User] “—Don’t ignore Betty. Emilia isn’t the only one who was worried.”

[Assistant] When he heard a childish voice complaining petulantly, Subaru turned to find a little girl with her cheeks puffed out adorably. “Beatrice…”

[User] “What a lifeless voice again…and you look almost like you can’t believe adorable little Betty is here, I suppose.” Her gaze softened with worry. The words coming out of her mouth were a bit harsh, but her tone was a mixture of concern and relief. Relief that Subaru had woken up, and concern about the fact that he had passed out in the first place. His heart leaped at that. And so—

[Assistant] “—Ngaaah? !” As she fixed him with a cool look, Subaru grabbed her and pulled her into a deep hug. Light… She was so light. Beatrice couldn’t do anything to resist the sudden movement, and her eyes betrayed her confusion as his arms enveloped her. Sitting on the green bed woven from vines, Subaru confirmed she was real with his entire being. “Beatrice! Beatrice! Beatriceeee!”

[User] “Wh-wh-wh-what are you doing?! What happened?! This is too sudden!”

[Assistant] “You…your face soothes the soul!"


[User] "Seeing your cute face is like coming home. Ugh, it’s so good!”

[Assistant] "I hope that that isn’t your poor attempt at a compliment!" Subaru clearly meant every word.

[User] Blushing at everything he said and the sudden hug, Beatrice squeezed his face between her tiny hands. It hurt a little when her fingers adorably pulled at his cheeks and ears, but it also helped confirm that the girl Beatrice was real, too.

[Assistant] "Mrgh! Quit messing around right after you woke up, Subaru! We still don’t even know why you collapsed…"

[User] And seeing how he was hugging and playing with Beatrice, Emilia spoke, feeling a little bit left out. Still worried about his condition, she gently started to grab his shoulder but then stopped. “…Subaru?” Emilia was more worried than upset. But the swirl of emotions in her voice quickly gave way to pure concern. Her eyes widened in shock as she looked at Subaru’s faintly trembling shoulder.

[Assistant] “…Uh…ngh…”

[User] "Subaru? Subaru, what is it? Betty is here. It’s all right. It’s all right, Subaru. You don’t have to cry." As she realized Subaru’s voice had caught in his throat and he was sobbing, the confusion disappeared from Beatrice’s face, and she gently caressed his damp cheek. He refused to let go of Beatrice’s little hand. Realizing his trembling was an expression of worry and fear, Beatrice immediately comforted him, like she was saying Don’t cry. You’re not alone. It’s okay.

[Assistant] “Please don’t cry, Subaru. There’s no rush. Deep breaths. Slowly. Beatrice and I are here for you.” Just like Beatrice, Emilia wanted to help Subaru calm down. Her hand that had hesitated before now rested on his shoulder, and anyone could tell by listening to her ringing voice that she respected Subaru Natsuki. "

[User] "I’m back…" Still sobbing and haggard and in an unbearably pathetic and shameful state…


[User] "I’m sure everyone is really worried about Subaru, but we have to keep it together, since he’s the one who must be most worried…" Standing next to him, Emilia had an anxious look on her face as she spoke supportively.

[Assistant] His last time through the loop had been terrifying, and now Subaru Natsuki was charging headlong onto a new path. He had resolved himself to start life again from zero in another world—or at least that was how he wanted to describe it, but the reality of the situation wasn’t nearly that appealing. Making up his mind was good, but there was a distinct possibility that everything could’ve ended for good with his last death. He couldn’t help feeling grateful and relieved that wasn’t the case and that he’d been given this new opportunity to start over by returning from death. But he had no intention of just relying on that. His ability was powerful, but the trigger—death—was unbelievably agonizing. Considering that was the price for twisting fate, it seemed appropriate. Powerful abilities demanded an equal cost. And Subaru was sure his returning from death was no different. There was also the possibility that this ability only had a limited number of uses or required sacrificing something precious to try again. He would have to be wary of overusing the ability.

[User] "Wait, my memories disappearing isn’t the price for returning by death…is it?"

[Assistant] "Are you listening, Barusu?" Ram’s stern voice pulled him back to reality. Her pink eyes glared at Subaru as she crossed her arms.

[User] "Despite what Lady Emilia said, Subaru does not appear to be particularly concerned at all… What is this farce, Barusu?"

[Assistant] "This isn’t a joke. I came clean about my worries and told the truth. Just imagining the kind of awful tragedy that could happen if I’m weirdly stubborn about it is enough to break my heart."

[User] "A slick turn of phrase. So we’re just supposed to believe you after some flippant—?"

[Assistant] "There’s no reason for Subaru to think up tall tales that are in such bad taste. You should understand that, too." The girl who was always Subaru’s ally pointed at him while looking up at Ram.

[User] "And Emilia isn’t lying, either. Subaru has lost his memories, and he is undoubtedly the one most troubled by it. That’s why he cried like a little boy."

[Assistant] "Bringing that up is a bit embarrassing." Scratching his cheek awkwardly at that unexpected revelation, Subaru left it at that. The true reason for his tears was a complex mix of things.


[User] The fact that he had come back to life. Being reunited with everyone. Realizing that he had been given another chance. But still, tears were tears. It was poor manners to probe too deeply about why a man cried. Either way, Subaru was grateful for Beatrice’s support. Remembering Beatrice’s fleeting relief and her comment about bringing her out, he could feel an ache in his chest, like a chain was tightening around his heart. What did that Subaru Natsuki do to Beatrice? He felt guilty relying on her trust without knowing their shared history. And he was careful to remind himself not to accept her trust as a given. "Honestly, using the excuse of ‘I have no reason to lie’ to shut down criticism isn’t ideal, but I’m gonna have to ask you to bear with me."

[Assistant] "So you say…"

[User] "And then let’s talk more constructively. Fortunately, the current me is feeling optimistic. I’ll gladly welcome any discussion that’ll help us move forward…and if there’s something you want to say, I’ll listen." Building on top of what Beatrice had already said, Subaru lowered his head again.

[Assistant] And Emilia lowered her head, too. "Please believe him."

[User] Even Ram couldn’t argue when all three of them were acting like this. And so she began to seriously consider the implications if his claim was true. Ram wasn’t the only one stunned by Subaru’s confession. She’d had the most striking reaction, but the others—Echidna and Julius and Shaula—reacted the same way they had multiple times before. Though he was sorry for heaping this dilemma onto their laps again, Subaru was still happy to see them. He could talk with everyone who should have been lost forever. Gripped by that emotion, the one he focused on the most was—

[Assistant] "—You really are troublesome, mister."

[User] "—Ngh!"

[Assistant] "What’s with that reaction? You look like you’ve seen a ghost. That isn’t very nice." The girl pretending not to be particularly surprised by his revelation was a young assassin with braided dark blue hair, wearing dark clothes. Meili Portroute was there, moving and talking.

[User] "Meili…"

[Assistant] "Hmmm… So you remember my name… Actually, I can’t really tell what’s supposed to be different. What did you forget?"

[User] "…Ah, sorry. It’s basically sort of like missing episodes. Apparently, I can remember the names of most things, but when it comes to memories of what happened, it gets pretty iffy."

[Assistant] "…So, like…what happened yesterday?" Meili’s tone fell slightly, and her eyes narrowed.

[User] "Right." Subaru answered immediately. He could have evaded it with a concocted explanation but had decided against it. He wanted to be as honest as possible with them.

[Assistant] "—Yesterday? That’s… No, I suppose so." Julius murmured. The ones who were most shocked by Subaru’s revelation might have been Julius and Echidna. The three of them had supposedly participated in a suspicious meeting the previous day. But putting their reactions aside for a moment…

[User] "Again, Master?"


[User] "How many times are you going to forget me before you’re satisfied!” Shaula pursed her lips unhappily while hugging her abundant chest.

[Assistant] “I feel a bit weird delving into your nonsense, but did your master really just go around losing his memories that often?”

[User] “…? It happened a lot. When I greeted you in the morning, you’d say ‘Who are you again? I don’t remember you. I don’t know you.’ Like I was a random fling.”

[Assistant] “Hmm. That doesn’t really sound like simple teasing, but it’s hard to tell…”

[User] “Honestly, it’s still difficult to accept at face value, but…as long as we’re staying in this tower, it’s probably wise to keep in mind the possibility that a trap or something along those lines might have caused Natsuki’s current condition.” Echidna began to seriously grapple with the situation.

[Assistant] “The most likely place for it to have happened is where Emilia-chan found me passed out, in Taygeta. Apparently, it was a kinda shady place to begin with.”

[User] “Chan…” Subaru couldn’t help but notice Emilia’s lonely murmur.

[Assistant] “—Anyway, I’m sorry for surprising everyone. Everyone probably needs some time to settle their thoughts, so why don’t we break for a bit? Ram and I can go get some water in the meantime.” With that proposal, Subaru leaped to his feet.

[User] Subaru nodded at the worried pair and fixed his black eyes on Ram. “Let’s go, Ram. You looked like you were about to invite me to go get some water.”

[Assistant] “How obscene.” Ram refused to meet his gaze.


[User] "You shouldn’t put too large a burden on Lady Emilia’s and Lady Beatrice’s shoulders. Lady Beatrice aside, it’s too much for Lady Emilia. You were right to rely on me. Now explain the—"

[Assistant] "Ram, the truth is that I don’t remember. It’s not a lie. I’m not bluffing. And it’s not a scheme, either."

[User] "" When she heard that, Ram’s expression darkened. Subaru could see unease and surprise in her pink eyes…and the sparks of rage. Those embers grew until they felt like an inferno that scorched Subaru’s very soul. And it was none other than Subaru Natsuki who was to blame. His countless acts of insincerity would destroy him.

[Assistant] "I don’t remember. All I have are the names of the people here in this tower and our general relation to each other."

[User] "Stop it."

[Assistant] "Emilia and Beatrice were just the first ones to hear. I told them the same thing I told you. There isn’t anything more to say. Right now, I don’t have anything up my sleeve."

[User] "Stop it, Barusu. If you—"

[Assistant] "I know that we came to this tower to get back a lot of things that were stolen away from us. I also know we’re in the middle of some test, but that’s it. What my motive is…"

[User] "Don’t you dare, Barusu."

[Assistant] "Rem…I—"

[User] "Barusu!! !"

[Assistant] "…I don’t remember any of it," Subaru said sorrowfully.

[User] Ram made it clear that she didn’t want to hear what he was saying, but when she heard his apology, she became an avatar of pure wrath as she grabbed him.

[Assistant] "Ghh!"

[User] She hauled him up by his shirt and slammed him against the wall. Using unbelievable force that didn’t seem like it could come from such slender arms, she pinned Subaru in place and glared at him from up close. Deep in her eyes, the embers he saw earlier had become a roiling flame that threatened to consume them both. And when that blaze overwhelmed him—or rather, when it overwhelmed Ram—tragedy would repeat itself. "What’s your game? This…this pointless lie!"

[Assistant] "It’s not a lie…not to you. I wouldn’t—"

[User] "—Wouldn’t lie to me? Then what would you have me do? Just believe you? That you…forgot Rem…? That’s…that’s absurd!" Her eyes flashed, and she was glaring at him from so close that their lips were almost touching. Subaru finally realized that the roaring fire in her eyes was more grief than anger. After four times, Subaru could finally grasp a small part of the turmoil in her heart.


[User] How perceptive would he have to be to notice it with no second chances? The way Emilia or Beatrice were able to do. They were all dazzlingly brilliant, but he couldn’t just let himself be stunned by that brilliance.

[Assistant] "I will get Rem back." Staring into her pink eyes, Subaru gathered his resolve and said it clear as day.

[User] Ram’s eyes widened again in surprise before hiding it immediately in anger. "Bite your tongue… Get what back? You’ve forgotten Rem!"

[Assistant] "Even so, I will get her back. Rem, my memories, what we came to this tower for—everything. I’ll make sure we get everything we came for, and then we’ll all go home together. We deserve that much."

[User] “…Barusu?”

[Assistant] "After everything that’s happened here…that’s the only way this should end." The atmosphere was heavy. But that wasn’t the reason Subaru wore a bitter expression.

[User] Ram furrowed her brow at his reaction and loosened the grip she had on his chest just a little bit.

[Assistant] This time, Subaru grabbed her hands and pulled them away and then traded places with her.

[User] "—Disgusting. Let me go at once." When he pushed her against the wall and brought their faces close together again, Ram demanded that he stop. But her tone was weaker than before.

[Assistant] Subaru ignored it and pressed on. "Ram, I’m going to get them back. My memories and Rem, too. So please, help me."

[User] "I need everyone’s strength. The Subaru Natsuki that you all know, the Subaru Natsuki who existed until today—he might not have needed to say something that pathetic. But I do."

[Assistant] The one who Julius trusted, who Beatrice believed in, who Echidna forgave, and who Emilia wanted by her side…if it was the Subaru Natsuki everyone expected great things from, then maybe he could have figured a way out of this checkmate on his own. But this Subaru couldn’t. And he was too loved by the people in this tower to just give up and throw a tantrum about being powerless. "I get that you can’t believe me or forgive me for forgetting Rem. But please save that anger for later. For now, I’ll make you a promise."

[User] "A promise…?"

[Assistant] "I swear I’ll do it all. I’ll throw myself into the fight as many times as it takes. And if I ever break this promise, if you ever see me give up, then you can boil me or fry me or whatever you want." Ram’s eyes opened wide again as Subaru stared into them from so close, she must’ve felt his every breath. It was like they needed to almost touch to make sure his feelings reached her—

[User] "If I ever give up, you can do whatever you want to me. That’s my punishment for losing all my memories and making you cry."

[Assistant] "Who’s crying? Don’t be stupid." A tremendous slap landed on the side of his face, sending him to the ground.

[User] "Owww?"


[User] ”!” Putting his hand on his red cheek, Subaru looked up at Ram in disbelief. “Y-you… It took a lot of courage to say all that…”

[Assistant] “What courage is there in riling yourself up? And a promise? From you? Don’t make me laugh. There is nothing less reliable in the entire world.”

[User] “Emilia said that, too, but seriously, how many promises did I break before today? !”

[Assistant] “Have you ever kept one?”

[User] “It’s that bad? !” Subaru adjusted his opinion of the other Subaru Natsuki yet again. The man’s stock price made massive swings in both directions, but news about him never keeping his word led to a big slump. “Subaru Natsuki really is a terrible guy…”

[Assistant] “Yes, exactly. It seems there’s some misunderstanding, but you have never been the sort of talented man who could take care of things alone. If anything, you are the sort of fool whose true talent lies in always trying to do things alone and making things worse. You have caused me quite a lot of trouble as well.”

[User] “Really? Why did you bring someone like that to this tower…?”

[Assistant] “You always butt in on your own. Admittedly, you have a skill for running your mouth. You’re also handy enough in your own way and suited to miscellaneous chores. And I guess you could at least comfort Lady Emilia and Lady Beatrice. And…”

[User] Subaru sat on the floor cross-legged as Ram laid out all of his shortcomings. She was talking about things he had no knowledge about, but it still felt like he was the one getting all the blame, and it didn’t feel great. When Emilia and the others said good things about the original Subaru Natsuki, that had been awkward in its own way, but having Ram berate the man at length was also rather strange. Subaru got a little defiant, deciding to hear it all. “And what? My legs are short? I have a bad memory? My diet is terrible? I don’t know when to give up?”

[Assistant] “Your legs are short, your memory is horrible, your diet is incredibly unbalanced, and you never know when to give up.”

[User] “Sounds about right.”

[Assistant] “…And you cared about Rem.”

[User] Suddenly, there was a change in her voice. It took on a slightly warmer tone. If her voice had a color, it would be a soft, comforting pink. He could see her gentle love had not faded. Her tender thoughts of her sister and the memory of Subaru Natsuki, who had been at her sister’s side, were alive and well. It made Subaru imagine a gentle pink color. “Barusu. Did you really forget Rem?”

[Assistant] “…Yeah…”

[User] Her eyes never wavered. It was inspiring. If he had heard something he absolutely didn’t want to hear in a situation like this, he would have averted his eyes. But she never tried to look away even once. “Barusu. Will you remember Rem?”

[Assistant] “Yeah. I will. And not just Rem.


[User] “Everything else, too.”

[Assistant] “You don’t have to worry about the rest, if it comes down to it. Just remember Rem.”

[User] “Give me a break. Just let me get everything back…”

[Assistant] “I shall say it again. You will remember Rem, even if you die.”

[User] “Yeah, I swear it. Even if I die, I’ll remember everything.” And I mean that literally. He would get back everything that Subaru Natsuki had seen, heard, felt, and done in this world.

[Assistant] “…Very well. I’ll overlook it for now.” The menacing pressure Ram had been giving off suddenly disappeared.

[User] “Is that enough?” Subaru asked from his seat on the ground. “Is just asking for help enough?”

[Assistant] “You’re a man, aren’t you? Just accept it. I heard your resolve. And you even said I could boil you or fry you or carve you up or tear into you or skewer you or pummel you or whatever I wanted if you give up. If I didn’t listen after that, it would cast doubt on my kindly, motherly nature.”

[User] “I don’t remember saying those parts after the frying bit…”

[Assistant] “Did you say something?”

[User] “Not a word, ma’am.” Shaking his head slowly, Subaru responded politely. Kindly and motherly were a bit of stretch, but even a Buddha’s patience would run out after three strikes, and Subaru was already on his fifth attempt. If he couldn’t cling to God or Buddha, then he would have to trust in Ram’s motherly affection.

[Assistant] “Stand up, Barusu. I won’t allow you to give up or to fall to your knees.”

[User] “I’m just sitting down. Don’t lump all those things together, please… Upsy-daisy.” Hopping to his feet, Subaru brushed off his backside and faced Ram. Leaning against the wall, she fixed her rumpled outfit and crossed her arms, looking back at him like usual—or at least what seemed to him to be her usual demeanor.

[Assistant] “…Did you say the same thing to Lady Emilia and Lady Beatrice?”

[User] “The two of them…didn’t seem to think there was any chance I might give up.”

[Assistant] “That’s true. They’ve been infected by you.”

[User] “That’s why I can’t ask them. Or Julius or Echidna, emotionally speaking.” It probably also had something to do with the fact that he already knew how those four would answer, from interacting with them in the previous loop. He was confirming the remaining answers now. “Also… Based on what you said, it sounds like I wasn’t that special a guy even before today.”

[Assistant] “Your value to me changes quite significantly, depending on whether you remember Rem or not. So be careful with your tone.” With that sharp jab, Ram turned and walked away from Subaru. They had stopped for a long time while getting the water, but if they returned empty-handed, that would just make Emilia and Beatrice worried. With the bucket in one hand, he hurried after Ram and joined her.

[User] “I…Subaru Natsuki, really was here, right?” Subaru asked softly as he looked over at Ram.


[User] It was more like an uneasy whimper than a question seeking actual confirmation. He probably shouldn’t have asked this right after swearing he wouldn’t give up no matter what. It wouldn’t have been strange for Ram to reprimand him for saying that before the ink had even dried on his promise.

[Assistant] "Idiot.” But she did not. Without stopping, mercifully, she just insulted him.

[User] "You only lost sight of yourself for a brief moment. It just feels like you disappeared because you are hidden beneath a slew of things that have all piled up together. Like a flower buried in the cold snow that shows itself once the spring comes. That’s all it is.” Ram didn’t let her emotions show, and Subaru couldn’t, either. Not now, just moments after acting so cool. He couldn’t let her see him looking so pathetic now. In that moment, Ram making a point of not looking at him and not saying anything else really did feel like a mother’s kindness.


[Assistant] “Do this right. Do this right, Subaru Natsuki…” Spurring himself on, he looked down at his palm.

[User] “Last time and the time before, the tower ended up a chaotic mess.”


[User] …was stand at the ledge near the spiral staircase. Behind him, he detected a faint breath. Someone was approaching with a moderate degree of stealth, just barely noticeable if he focused. Using his cheat-like foreknowledge, he turned around at the last moment.

[Assistant] “—!” Outthrust hands hit nothing but air, and Subaru caught them as they started to stumble forward.

[User] “Whoops, watch out. Don’t go falling instead of me.” Their body was light, not in an ominous way, but in a way befitting their appearance. “Now then, let’s chat. You’re gonna take some responsibility for killing me.” Saying that, Subaru smiled as he revealed his stunning power of deduction to Meili, the person who had pushed him down twice before.


[User] On the verge of stumbling over the edge herself, Meili widened her eyes as Subaru steadied her. Looking into her eyes, he couldn’t help having mixed feelings. Using what he’d gained from Return by Death, he had effectively prevented a tragedy, which was good. But it also proved that he had been pushed to his doom by this young girl on two separate occasions. The culprit who had sent him tumbling to his death was Meili Portroute, the person who the other Subaru Natsuki had promptly removed from the equation in the last loop.

[Assistant] “…Take responsibility for killing you? That’s a strange thing to say, mister.” For a moment, her eyes darted in panic, but her expression quickly softened as she traced her finger around Subaru’s arm wrapped around her torso, flashing a sweet smile. She changed her position, moving over to the stairs before facing Subaru again.

[User] “Maybe you lost something more than just memories? Otherwise, you wouldn’t make such a terrible mix-up.”

[Assistant] “Oh yeah?”

[User] “I mean, obviously? Me trying to kill you? That’s an awful misunderstanding.” Meili flashed an innocent smile while holding her hands behind her back. Even Subaru couldn’t help losing a bit of steam after seeing her feign innocence so confidently. He had not expected her to deny it once he’d caught her red-handed. But if it was her…if it was Meili, he could understand. She was stubborn. Or less charitably, she acted haphazardly. In a certain sense, she behaved like a wild animal. Also, she had been a little too heavily influenced by the person she chose as a role model.

[Assistant] “I’m hurt that you’d suspect me. If I was going to kill you, it would have been a lot easier out there in the desert than in here, right? Ah, you don’t remember, so maybe you didn’t know that.”

[User] “That’s right. It is a weird story. If you were really trying to kill us before, you must have had plenty of opportunities. But you didn’t.”

[Assistant] “Right? So—”

[User] “But the story changes if you suddenly gained a new motive this morning. Or I guess it would be more accurate to call it a chain reaction, starting from last night.”

[Assistant] Meili’s expression changed. She pursed her lips, and her calm smile disappeared. A heavy sigh escaped her. And then she shrugged in a terribly world-weary way that was at odds with her youthful appearance.

[User] “…Am I being set up?”

[Assistant] “In what way?”

[User] “You were testing me, weren’t you? Lying about losing your memories, seeing if I would push you over the edge… Now that we’re at the tower, I’m not useful anymore. It’s the perfect time to take care of loose ends.” Subaru was sad to hear her so calmly comment on her unfavorable position and on how she wasn’t the same as everyone else.


[User] “So, how are you going to finish me? Push me off here as a neat bit of revenge? I don’t have my mean pets with me now, so you can erase someone like me easily, even by yourself.”

[Assistant] “Don’t get the wrong idea, Meili. I wasn’t lying about losing my memory to trick you. That’s the truth, and it’s honestly a serious problem.”

[User] “You can say that, but it’s hard to believe you… What do you want, then, mister? Do you think it won’t feel real if you can’t feel it yourself?” Meili wrapped her hands around her slender neck and stuck her tongue out. “Agh…”

[Assistant] Subaru’s heart leaped in his chest.

[User] “I wouldn’t recommend something too drawn out. I don’t want to suffer personally, but also you don’t seem good at hiding things—”

[Assistant] “—I have no intention of killing you or hurting you. Whether today or tomorrow, I intend to act the same around you as I always have.”

[User] “…Huh?” Meili’s face changed again.

[Assistant] She looked at Subaru with incomprehension.

[User] Subaru simply nodded. “Fortunately, you were stopped before things went too far, so as long as this stays a secret between us, we can just pretend nothing happened. I had to catch you in the act is all, since if I merely avoided the danger, you might have kept plotting different ways to kill me. If you want to call it bad taste, I won’t deny it. Sorry.”

[Assistant] “Agh…wh-what…?”

[User] “But you understand now, right? Trying to do something to me is pretty risky for you. If this isn’t enough to convince you, then fine. But at least talk with me. If there’s something bothering you, I’ll lend an ear as best I can…”

[Assistant] “Bothering me? Like what…?” Meili’s voice was soft and quivering. And then pursing her lips, she shouted. “What about this situation?! That’s what’s bothering me right now!”

[User] Subaru was trying to settle things amicably.

[Assistant] “I can’t believe it… I can’t, I can’t…” She restlessly touched her braided hair as she howled.


[User] "Otherwise…” She faltered, desperately arguing why this was all wrong.

[Assistant] Seeing her this flustered was a first for Subaru.

[User] "It’s an impulsive crime."

[Assistant] "—! Don’t talk like you know me! What do…what do you know about me? !"

[User] "But I do know." He answered her furious eruption with a cool, calm confidence. Looking her straight in the eye, he said it firmly and directly. "Meili, I know you. It might sound creepy, but there’s probably nobody in this world who knows you better than I do."

[Assistant] Seeing Subaru shrug, Meili gave him a terrified look. It was a natural reaction, but it also hurt Subaru. He struggled to convey the twisted, almost narcissistic sort of affection he felt for Meili.

[User] "—No, that’s not right." He shook his head to stop shifting the blame to the girl who had been killed. The whispering voice that had tempted him while he was in the grips of dark paranoia. He hadn’t heard it once this time.

[Assistant] —No, I’m never going to hear it again. What are you doing? Look at her, right there in front of you. Look at her confusion, her fear.


[User] Remembering what he saw in her book of the dead.

[Assistant] Considering the anguish she must have been feeling, Subaru knew she wasn’t the kind of person who would egg on others to commit murder.

[User] It wasn’t Meili who had merged with him after he read her book of the dead.

[Assistant] It was just his own weak will deceiving him. —After all, she had never once actually appeared in front of him.

[User] “” In an awful, one-sided way, Subaru had experienced Meili’s life through the book of the dead.

[Assistant] He’d watched her from the moment she’d gained awareness, and he’d seen the development of her identity, her way of life, and how her short life meaninglessly ended.

[User] During those days, Meili had felt an emptiness that she didn’t let others see, an experience that had given her the terror to match that overwhelming void, as well as the one and only shining emotional attachment she had formed.

[Assistant] And the name of that person was—

[User] “Elsa Gramhilde.”

[User] “She’s the reason why you tried to kill me, right?”

[Assistant] Meili’s reaction to that name was dramatic. Her sweet, adorable face was warped by anguish, and her pea-green eyes opened as wide as they could go. This was anger. Anger at someone traipsing with muddy boots into a place she didn’t want anyone to go, a thing she didn’t want anyone to touch. And she took decisive action to stop him from trampling on it any further. He didn’t have any time to stop her.

[User] “No one knows how I—!” Screaming as tears ran down her cheeks, Meili turned and threw herself over the edge. Wasting his effort to keep her from falling before, she leaped into the void herself, to hide her feelings.


[Assistant] —Elsa Gramhilde was an outrageous woman.

[User] “I was told to bring you back, so you’ll be coming with me.”

[Assistant] Their first meeting was awful.

[User] Despite her not understanding the basic concepts of liking or hating things, it was undoubtedly the worst.

[Assistant] There was nothing redeemable about that woman.

[User] The beasts that had somehow managed to care for a little human girl when she had nothing—the woman killed them all and then dragged that girl out of the forest.

[Assistant] Elsa was indifferent throughout the ordeal, saying that this was unavoidable, since she had been given an order and was wholly unconcerned about killing the beasts who had been at the girl’s side for as long as she could remember.

[User] She thought about killing the woman.

[Assistant] Time and time again, she waited for an opening until finally she found her chance and sank her fangs into the woman’s neck…

[User] “—? What? Stop it, that tickles.” Peering down at her, the woman sounded as if she didn’t feel anything at all.

[Assistant] The malnourished girl was just skin and bones.

[User] She was dragged out of the woods and given a bath against her will.

[Assistant] Then she rejected the frilly clothes she was given, and she tried to kill the woman again.


[User] Elsa just shook her head in boredom, as if nothing of substance had happened.

[Assistant] Throwing aside the clothes she was given, she launched herself at Elsa. "Auu, aoooooo, aooooo…!"

[User] "Are you trying to get that dirty rag back? I’m not too concerned with fashion, either, but you’re quite the strange one, too.”

[Assistant] "You’re quite hotheaded, aren’t you, Meili?"

[User] "Seems like that’s your name? It was hard to make out, but it was sewn into that rag of yours… Maybe it belonged to someone else, but it’s inconvenient not having a name to call you, so…" Elsa smiled sweetly. "You’re Meili from now on. That’s what I’m going to call you."


[Assistant] She had met Mother for the first time and experienced her first “punishment.”

[User] Her spirit was broken, and she would be nothing less than absolutely obedient if it meant she could avoid ever experiencing that again. "You’re shivering. Are you cold?"

[Assistant] The black-haired woman cocked her head in confusion.

[User] Meili trembled as the fear consumed her, while Elsa sat next to her and wrapped an arm around her without another word.

[Assistant] "? Could you not? That tickles." Meili bit Elsa in the neck.


[User] "Meili, it’s getting annoying, so could you braid my hair?"

[Assistant] She knew how to talk now. She modeled her speech after Elsa’s.


[User] She started wearing clothes. —She dressed just like Elsa. She also started doing jobs. —She learned how by watching Elsa. —And she kept all that a secret from Elsa.

[Assistant] "Meili? Are you listening? I’m asking for help with my hair."

[User] "—Yes, I heard you. You really are sloppy, Elsa." Sitting together on a soft sofa, she snorted as Elsa leaned her head against her shoulder.

[Assistant] Undoing her long black hair, Elsa seemed more carefree than usual.

[User] That careless attitude got on her nerves. "Omph."

[Assistant] "? That’s ticklish."

[User] Just like so many times before, she bit into Elsa’s throat. She could bite harder, enough to break the skin and make it hurt. Meili wasn’t a weak, frail beast anymore. She ate plenty, learned to talk, gained a name, and had gotten to know Elsa. So… "Grrn!"

[Assistant] "...You’re a strange girl." Glancing over at Meili biting into her neck, Elsa softened her expression and let Meili have her revenge. Elsa was an outrageous woman. And an awful woman. And also a disgusting woman. She became so big, Meili didn’t want her to disappear. She was an outrageous, awful, disgusting part of Meili’s life. Her presence was so large that calling her a part of Meili’s life didn’t do it justice. If that was going to be revealed and violated—if Elsa Gramhilde was going to be killed, then Meili Portroute would—


[User] "…It would have been a lot better if you had just let me end it.”

[Assistant] “Sorry about that. But the Natsuki family style is to barge right into other people’s hearts, though we do make sure to take our shoes off before stepping into their homes.” Kenichi Natsuki was open and honest, without any trace of bashfulness.

[User] Nahoko Natsuki always moved at her own pace, firing off strings of strange comments wherever she went, but she never let anything important slip past her.

[Assistant] As a member of the Natsuki family, Subaru Natsuki boldly charged into the young assassin’s heart.

[User] Meili was limp. Subaru’s arm was wrapped around her waist as he clenched his jaw and adjusted his left hand’s grip on the whip currently tied to the stairs. When Subaru said Elsa’s name, Meili had suddenly jumped, trying to kill herself. He didn’t have time to stop her. But he had prepared in advance for this possibility.

[Assistant] “I told you, no one in this world understands you better than I do.”

[User] “…That’s gross…”

[Assistant] “Don’t say that,” Subaru said with an awkward smile. “That was just a turn of phrase to get you to listen to me.” But even if she hated him, even if she rejected him, he couldn’t change the simple truth of it. He understood her feelings painfully well. The thing that drove her to the impulsive violence deeply rooted in the bottom of her heart was the murderer who Subaru Natsuki didn’t know and yet who felt impossibly close.


[User] Thinking about her brought relief and yearning, grief and fury, and emptiness—what Meili felt about her was both complicated and incredibly simple. —Meili idolized Elsa, loved her, and looked up to her. And when she lost her, Meili felt a murderous urge emerge from the grief, the pain, the hatred, and the disappointment. Joining them on this journey while hiding any trace of her desire for vengeance—wasn’t the sort of performance Meili was capable of. In fact, she was almost impossibly awkward. Even though no one would’ve blamed her for calling Subaru and the others her hated enemies, she didn’t know why she would do such a thing. That’s why there was no need for her to put on any act. She genuinely didn’t realize it herself. She didn’t realize she had lost something precious. She was a sad girl so clueless that she didn’t understand how deep the wound to her heart was. Meili Portroute was a killer created by her surroundings.

[Assistant] "You wanted revenge?"

[User] “…I don’t know…”

[Assistant] "Even if you did, Elsa…"

[User] "Wouldn’t want that. I know." Meili shook her head.

[Assistant] Subaru understood what she was feeling. And she knew that his words were on the mark. In this moment, they were on equal ground.

[User] “…Why did you try to save me?”

[Assistant] "I tried to… You already knew even before I jumped, right? That’s weird. You’re weird…"

[User] "Yeah, I can’t disagree there. But…I hardly know anything in this world, and if you disappeared, it would get just that much more lonely. Maybe that’s why."

[Assistant] Meili was lifeless, like she had fully accepted death, but she bit her lip. Subaru’s answer couldn’t have been what she wanted to hear. But he couldn’t give her what she wanted. It was a story and motive that he didn’t know. What she really wanted was to talk with someone she could never meet again.

[User] "You won’t be able to hear her voice anymore."

[Assistant] "Even if you found her name in the books of the dead, it won’t tell you anything about the future." The girl who had no idea how to deal with her emotions had become impossibly lost, and the only way she knew how to solve problems was by killing. It was tragic from beginning to end. Subaru hated the world for not giving her any other choice. Even Elsa’s way of living, which Meili yearned for so badly, couldn’t help her. Elsa might have been a light for Meili, but the path she illuminated was too thorny for a normal person to walk.

[User] "I’m sure you don’t know what to do with all the emotions you may or may not be feeling. And you probably won’t be able to reach an answer right away. So…"

[Assistant] "Just leave it all to me. I won’t do anything bad. At the very least, I’ll do my best not to let things go too badly. As long as that’s what you want."

[User] “…I…don’t believe you.


[User] "You’ll say anything if it’s convenient.” Meili stared at the ground, refusing to agree even after hearing Subaru’s speech.

[Assistant] Of course she did. This was the path she had followed all her life, and he was asking her to find another way to live that didn’t exist in her dictionary. And on top of that, the one asking was Subaru Natsuki, who was talking as if he knew everything, without any explanation of how he could possibly begin to understand. And the worst part was that he was the sort of person who would lure her out here, knowing that he might get pushed to his death. The entire scenario was dubious enough that even Subaru had a hard time believing it himself. So he had expected her to refuse and had prepared a plan B. “Okay, I get why you can’t take me at my word. It seems like I was a serial promise-breaker before today. So here’s what we’ll do.”

[User] “What?”

[Assistant] “Instead of a promise between you and me, we’ll make it a promise between you and us.”

[User] “” Meili furrowed her brow, clearly not following.

[Assistant] “Mm-hmm. It’s all right. I heard it all, so I’ll be the witness.”

[User] “—!” Meili twitched and slowly looked up. As she did, a face came into view—Emilia’s. She was holding on to the whip that was caught on the stairs. Straining with her slender arms, she pulled both of them up with surprising ease.

[Assistant] After safely making it back from that dangerous midair stunt, Subaru raised his hand in gratitude. “Thanks, Emilia-chan… Honestly, I was scared to death.”

[User] “That’s my line! Sheesh! I never expected you to jump, too. My heart almost jumped out of my chest.” Looking away in a huff, Emilia scolded his recklessness.

[Assistant] And unable to make an excuse for himself, Subaru sheepishly scratched his head.

[User] Kneeling on the stairs, Meili looked on with unfocused eyes. “Miss…you…heard…?”

[Assistant] “Yes. Subaru asked me to be here…to help you if it looked like things might get dangerous. And it’s a good thing he did.” Emilia pouted and glared at Subaru.

[User] Meili pointed at herself, still confused. “For me…? Not for him…?”

[Assistant] “Yes, ‘in case anything happens to Meili.’ That’s what you meant, right, Subaru?”

[User] “That’s right. This was the only bit I was genuinely worried about.” Knowing that she would attempt to push him off the edge, Subaru had been confident he could keep that from happening. But he could also envision her throwing herself over the edge once she’d been cornered. They had managed to avoid both worst-case scenarios. But what concerned him most was what the other Subaru Natsuki might do.


[User] Hypothetically speaking, if murdering Meili in the last loop was intended as an act of self-defense, then it was entirely possible that the other Subaru Natsuki might do something rash when they caught Meili at the scene of the crime. That was why Subaru entrusted that problem to someone who was demonstrably stronger than he was. He was confident that even if the other Subaru Natsuki took control, Emilia—that all his comrades—would be able to do something.

[Assistant] “Listen, Meili. I believe what Subaru said. If you still can’t trust him, then we can just keep an eye on Subaru together. And if he does break his promise, then I’ll get mad at him with you.”

[User] “Keep an eye on him…? That’s weird, isn’t it? You both should be…watching me…”

[Assistant] “If you ever try to do something bad, then it will be because Subaru broke his promise. So I’m watching Subaru to make sure he keeps his promise. That way, everything works out, right?”

[User] Before Meili recovered, Subaru elaborated. “Basically, you almost did something wrong, but thanks to our efforts, it didn’t happen. So this is a chance to figure out what you should do instead. Whether you can find an answer that doesn’t involve killing me… Well, that’ll be our little wager, won’t it?”

[Assistant] “What will…?”

[User] “Whether you’ll still feel like you have to kill me or not once you’ve sorted out your feelings. I’ll be doing my best with the ethics lessons, too.” Subaru smiled unreassuringly. That was the path Subaru was trying to guide Meili toward. If he was being honest, it was none of his business. Meili had chosen her own way of life, and he was just butting in to show her a new possibility. But if she rejected it, her path would end here in this tower. She couldn’t clear this tower together with everyone, using what was familiar. Moreover…

[Assistant] “I won’t let you stop here. I don’t know how old you are exactly…but when I was about your age, I got a lot of help from the adults around me.”

[User] “So even if you hate me for it, I’m going to help you. You’re too lovable to go around rejecting everyone’s help when you don’t know what to do.” Subaru put his hands under her arms and lifted her light body, before setting her back on her feet. Her body shuddered, and she peered up at him with unsure eyes. Subaru patted her head as kindly as he could. Not strangling her. He offered a different solution from the other Subaru Natsuki. Meili wasn’t someone who needed to die. And…

[Assistant] “Please, Meili. Believe Subaru…believe us.”

[User] “…Ah.” Emilia hugged Meili from behind as Subaru patted her head. Emilia gently embraced her, putting her cheek to Meili’s as the young girl bit her pale lips.


[User] "This tower is too small a place for you to decide something so big.”

[Assistant] "After we get out of here, when we’re in a more open place, you can give us your answer. We’ll do our best to get there.” Bottling up emotions in a confined space was bad for a child’s growth. Even after choosing his words as best he could, that had been the best description Subaru could come up with, but Emilia expressed it better with her kind words and earnest feelings.

[User] Meili’s eyes drifted, like she was lost in thought. “I don’t want to…forget Elsa…”

[Assistant] “Yeah. That’s fine. You don’t have to forget about someone you love. But…just…” Subaru thought of the beautiful dark woman he had seen in the book of the dead. She was, above all, mysterious. He’d had no interactions with her, but he still felt like he knew her. Curiously, when he thought about her, Subaru rubbed his stomach subconsciously.

[User] “Even if it’s someone you love, maybe don’t copy her too closely?” That was all he asked. —Still unsure, Meili nodded meekly, and after that, there was a long, long silence.

[Assistant] “Honestly, that was very scary. But you asked, so Betty held it in.”

[User] “Master’s a man who can’t die. I wasn’t worried at all. If anything, I thought kiddo number two would explode into a million pieces the moment she stood behind him.”

[Assistant] “Aghhh…” Seeing them slowly walk up the stairs, Meili flushed red in the face, and she flapped her mouth a couple times as she struggled to find the words.

[User] Subaru waved at the two joining them. “Hey, thanks for the support. It was a relief not having to worry about anything falling through the cracks.”

[Assistant] “Even if it was you asking, Betty isn’t sure if she would forgive you if you really did fall. So consider yourself lucky.” Beatrice was hiking her dress up as she climbed the stairs. Behind her was Shaula, with her hands clasped behind her head. Subaru had asked them to stand by on the bottom floor.

[User] “Wh-wh-wh…m-mister? What are they…?” Meili spun toward Subaru. She looked stunned and possibly like she wanted to complain about him not mentioning them before.

[Assistant] “I mean…” Subaru crossed his arms. “Planning to jump after you was a cool plan and all, but even a small mistake would mean we’d both die, right? That’s a little too dangerous.”

[User] “B-but that’s why you had her watching out for me, right…?”

[Assistant] “I know Emilia-chan is way more powerful than she looks, with her crazy cuteness and everything, but there’s always a chance things could go sideways. It wouldn’t be funny if she ended up getting dragged down with us, too.” In fact, at the end of the last loop, the two of them had fallen to their deaths together. He had held on to her, but he couldn’t save her. And that memory was like a splinter that jabbed deep into his heart.


[User] “To make sure that worst case didn’t happen, I made some extra arrangements. With Beatrice and Shaula watching from below, I thought that would be enough to be absolutely sure.”

[Assistant] “You went that far? …There must have been an easier, smarter way.” Meili averted her eyes. Her shame at having some of her secret revealed was fading, but in its place was an overwhelming sense of embarrassment.

[User] “Yeah, true.” Subaru scratched his cheek. “I’m sure there was an easier, smarter way to do this. But…”

[Assistant] “But?”

[User] “In my mind, doing things the easy way usually means there’s a compromise involved, and doing things smarter makes it sound like something a scheming neighbor might do. I… Well, I just didn’t want to compromise or resort to tricks.”

[Assistant] Meili almost closed her eyes, and she bit her lip ever so slightly.

[User] Watching her with an awkward smile, Subaru clenched his fists. He wanted to fix everything. Wished he could fix everything. Subaru wanted to do everything he could. “And that’s why I asked Emilia-chan, and why I didn’t hesitate to ask the others for help, either.”

[Assistant] “Mm-hmm. That’s right. I was surprised when Subaru brought this up,” Emilia said. She peered at Subaru while still resting her chin on Meili’s shoulder and hugging her from behind. “But I could tell immediately he was really serious. Plus…”

[User] “What?”

[Assistant] “I was glad that you came to me for help. You always plan to settle everything by the time I realize what’s going on.” When she smiled at him, her purple eyes took Subaru’s breath away. His cheeks tensed while Emilia’s expression softened as she nodded. “So, I was happy that you came to me from the start this time and we had a chance to think it over together. Hee-hee. It’s a little strange.”

[User] “…Not much point in saying it now, but I’m pretty pissed at the old me. But getting to see your face and hear your voice right now is something only I get to do, so I guess I got the better end of the deal…? What do you think, Emilia-chan?”

[Assistant] “Sorry, I don’t really know what you’re talking about.” Subaru’s shoulders slumped as she ignored his rambling with a smile.


[User] The two climbing the stairs finally joined the three at the top. “It’s a relief that nothing happened.”

[Assistant] “That’s a misleading way of putting it. Considering all the changes in Meili’s mindset…is that really nothing?”

[User] “Oooh, that’s Master for ya! No clue what the heck you’re saying, but when it comes to things that feel meaningful, you’re the best!”

[Assistant] “Do you actually respect me?” One explanation was that Shaula was reflexively impressed by anything he said, but when he mentioned wanting to help Meili, she had been the first to agree. There was a part of him that felt like she would support just about anything he proposed, but it was also true that just having her be there was a huge help.


[User] "Umm, Beatrice…are you not…mad at me?"

[Assistant] "Of course Betty is mad. But your plot was stopped before Betty snapped and had to step in. And there’s also the incident in the desert to consider, so let’s say you’ve broken even."

[Assistant] "However! That only covers what has happened on this trip. There is still your crime of burning down Betty’s archive in the old mansion. So long as that remains, Betty will not forgive you for now." Crossing her short arms, Beatrice answered Meili with a stern look.

[User] Meili caught her breath, but Emilia started giggling.

[Assistant] "It might’ve been hard to make out, but Beatrice just said, ‘for now.’ If you’re a good girl, she’ll forgive you. She’s really nice."

[User] "Emilia! Don’t say things like that!" Emilia simply laughed while Beatrice went red when her stern demeanor’s soft underbelly was revealed.

[Assistant] "...I’ll be as careful as I can be…" Meili answered quietly.

[User] Subaru nodded, pleased with how things were turning out. This is enough to say I’ve finally made some real progress, right? At the very least, he had managed to stop the girl who felt compelled to kill him. But progress alone wasn’t enough. There was more than one tragedy lurking in wait in this tower…


[Assistant] "—Is this really okay, Master?"

[User] "Huh?"

[Assistant] Her eyes narrowed as she stood next to him, watching Emilia, Beatrice, and Meili’s exchange. "She tried to kill you. Are you really going to let her off scot-free?"

[User] That’s a heavy question… But yeah, I’m fine with it. If you’re talking punishment, Meili already had one. But why should she have to be punished? No one ever taught her any better. That’s what I’m going to teach her now."

[Assistant] "You said it already, but what if she tries to kill you again?"

[User] "That would mean I’m a pretty awful teacher. But I’m not going to be doing it alone, either." That was his answer. Even in ideal circumstances, it would be hard for him to instill a new set of values in a girl who’d been raised to be an assassin from a young age, especially all by himself. If he was being honest, Subaru doubted he could carry such a heavy burden. But he wasn’t alone. He had relied on the others to stop Meili’s assault. And he would have Emilia and Beatrice with him in the future, too.

[Assistant] "Of course, I’m going to count on your help, too, Shaula. When it comes to changing hearts and minds, that’s a marathon, not a sprint."

[User] "...Me too?" Shaula pointed at herself in surprise.

[Assistant] "Yeah, obviously. You…well, with you, you’re probably more of an example of what not to do, but I’m not gonna leave you out of the group. You’ve got a motherly figure, so it’d be good if you could work on getting through to Meili’s stubborn heart," Subaru said with a casual shrug.


[User] He was left wondering what was so surprising about that, but since Shaula overreacted all the time, he just wrote it off as another one of her episodes and didn’t think too hard about it.

[Assistant] Shaula squeezed her face in her hands. "Me too? Me...and Master... Eh-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee-hee..."

[User] "Uh...what's up with you...?"

[Assistant] "Nothing! I decided! I'm gonna raise kiddo number two into a proper person, just like you told me to, Master!" Her face suddenly brightened, and Shaula rushed over to the three of them. Lifting Meili's little body up, she hugged the girl tightly to her voluptuous bosom.

[User] "Gahhh?! Wh-what is it? Don't surprise me like that!"

[Assistant] "It's fine, it's fine. Just rely on me all you want, kiddo number two. My chest belongs to Master, but for now, I'll share it with you, too!"

[User] "Umm, mister?! You said something weird to her again, didn't you!" Meili raised her voice accusatorily as Shaula did whatever she pleased.

[Assistant] "Just think of it as the punishment for making everyone worry and indulge her."

[User] "...Sheesh, you're all so hopeless. Fine, I'll allow it. But don't tell anyone else about what happened here." Meili's cheeks puffed out as she was enveloped by Shaula's breasts.

[Assistant] However, Subaru scratched his head awkwardly at her answer.

[User] Her brow furrowed at that, and Emilia spoke up for him. "Umm, Meili...it's really hard to say this, but..."

[Assistant] "...I have a bad feeling about this."

[User] "Subaru also asked Ram and the others who aren't here to help you." The way Meili's face puckered up was almost impressive.


[Assistant] "Looks like you took care of everything. Not bad. I'll even compliment the effort." Ram was standing there with her hands on her hips when Subaru and the others came back to the room they used for meals and meetings—which was referred to as the common room, for the time being.

[User] That was probably high praise, coming from Ram. Subaru had talked a big game about helping Meili, so it was a relief to have something to show for it.

[Assistant] "This probably goes without saying, but she was waiting there for you to come back the whole time."

[User] "That should in fact have gone without saying. Control yourself, Echidna." Ram's eyebrows arched sharply as she said that.

[Assistant] "Acting like that the moment you find out it's me controlling this body? That's nice." Echidna smiled and then looked past Subaru. "So, why is she sulking?"

[User] Meili groaned behind Shaula's back before looking away in a huff. She was definitely pouting.

[Assistant] "That isn't because she's mad her plan failed, right?"

[User] "No, no. You've got it wrong. She's just embarrassed that everyone figured out what she was feeling. It's childish and adorable."

[Assistant] "Considering what she was trying to do, I don't think that's the right way to put it...but I guess memories or no memories, your essence is the same, eh?


[User] “You really are something, Natsuki.”

[Assistant] Subaru winked at Echidna. “I’m honored if you enjoyed the show.”

[User] “Hah.” Ram snorted derisively.

[Assistant] Subaru looked around the common room and then cocked his head. “Huh? Julius isn’t here. Where’d he go? Toilet or something?”

[User] “I am hurt that you think I would do something so trivial while you were going through something so important.” The voice had come from behind Subaru.

[Assistant] Subaru said with a nasty smirk as he turned around. “I didn’t say it had to be little. Could’ve been the big one, too,”

[User] Julius had returned from outside the common room. “Did you have stomach issues, Julius?”

[Assistant] Emilia asked with real concern. “Did you have stomach issues, Julius?”

[User] “I would suggest not taking his words too seriously, Lady Emilia. He is indeed your knight and someone you should be able to trust more than anyone, but at times, his remarks can also be rather intolerable…”

[Assistant] “Hey, quit saying stuff like that to Emilia-chan. Besides, you’re the one who wasn’t here. You can’t complain.”

[User] “…Ha.” He stared at Subaru with his yellow eyes for a moment, before his expression relaxed.

[Assistant] “If you will allow me an excuse, then I would say I simply stepped out on watch. If Miss Meili’s ability is to be considered, the greatest threat would be the demon beasts outside the tower. However…” Julius glanced at the young girl.

[User] Julius smiled wryly, seeing that Meili pouted uncomfortably. “It’s safe to assume she will not be a problem, yes?”

[Assistant] “Yeah, it’s fine. She’s not going to try killing me again at the drop of a hat. The question of whether she’ll never do it again will come down to how well we give her a good example to follow. So no pathetic performances.”

[User] “I see. So it’s a matter of putting on a show? In that case, please leave it to me.” Quickly guessing the result of the talk with Meili, Julius quietly nodded.

[Assistant] “I’ve got high expectations, Mr. Knight. You and I are the only ones who can be father figures to her right now.”

[User] “…Humph. In that case, I shall do my best.” As they shared a bit of banter, Subaru carefully gauged the reactions, testing whether he had found the right level of intimacy.


[User] Subaru was trying to follow the original Subaru Natsuki’s trail as closely as possible. “—Subaru? Are you okay? Can you talk more now?”

[Assistant] Emilia peered into his eyes, looking worried.

[User] “Whoa? !” Subaru stumbled back in surprise at the sudden proximity. “Ah…”

[Assistant] Emilia gasped softly. “…It feels like, since you woke up…no, since you said you lost your memories, haven’t you been getting surprised by me a lot? Am I that strange? Is there something on my face?”

[User] “No, um, not at all. Just cute eyes and a cute nose and cute lips and cute ears.”

[Assistant] “Cute…ha-ha, thank you. But then…why?”

[User] “I think it’s because your cuteness isn’t just the sum of the parts. It’s exponential. And your voice, too. And your hair. Yeah, this isn’t helpful. You’re like an angel. It’s too dazzling, I can’t look too closely.” Subaru covered his face and peeked out at her from between his fingers.

[Assistant] “—Argh! Could you say that in a more Subaru sort of way? !”

[User] “Huh?! Um, what? !”

[Assistant] “What you said before about Emilia being an angel. Say that in a more Subaru way.”

[User] “What kind of punishment is this?! No! It’s embarrassing! You’re adorable like an angel, too, Beatrice! Don’t pout!”

[Assistant] “It’s true that Betty is an adorable angel, but that’s not it…” Beatrice’s shoulders slumped in disappointment.

[User] Patting her head, Subaru and everyone else gathered to start their meeting. “I’m happy to announce that Meili’s on our roster again. Now that she’s a full team member and because it’d be good for her social studies, I’d like to get out of this sandy tower fast. Thoughts?”

[Assistant] “It strains credulity to believe you’ve lost your memories when you say things like that… But in this grave situation, Barusu’s memory loss is a lesser problem. Though still a problem.” Ram started the discussion.

[User] “Mm-hmm. Memories aren’t something that normally disappear without warning, so we need to do something to get them back.”

[Assistant] “About that… Can we put that aside for now?” When Subaru put the brakes on that idea, everyone around the circle looked surprised. “I feel bad for forgetting wherever I set my memories down, and I’m seriously happy that you all want to help me. But no one really thinks my memory loss is entirely unrelated to this tower’s traps, right?”


[User] "You lost your memory hitting your head on a toilet before, after all.”

[Assistant] “No comments from the peanut gallery! I can’t ignore that comment, but save it for later!” Subaru got annoyed at the wildly unexpected interruption.

[User] “Anyway! What I want to say is, there’s gotta be a connection between me losing my memories and the tower. In other words…”

[Assistant] “In other words, if we fulfill the conditions to clear the tower, we will naturally find out why you lost your memory, or maybe even find out how to fix it. Is that what you mean?” Echidna said, continuing his line of thought.

[User] “Yeah, exactly. That’s it!” Subaru nodded.

[Assistant] “I see. If it was a trap of the tower that robbed you of your memory, then advancing through the tower will bring us closer to the answer. Or we will discover the reason you lost your memory might have been from coming too close to the answer.” Julius put his hand to his chin.

[User] “It’s certainly possible. There’s the solution to Taygeta, too. Maybe Natsuki getting too far ahead of us because of knowledge only he had is what caused him to lose his memory.”

[Assistant] “Wait, wait, wait. You’re definitely overestimating me there. I’m just a shut-in. My special skills are being able to neatly make my bed and maybe a bit of sewing?”

[User] “Ah, look Subaru. You made this. Do you remember? Cute, isn’t it? It’s Puck,” Emilia chimed in.

[Assistant] “Hmm, that’s definitely a cute cat. But I don’t really recognize it.”

[User] The conversation rapidly took several hard turns, but after hearing Subaru’s response, Emilia disappointedly caressed the embroidered pattern on her outfit.

[Assistant] Is that her cat? It didn’t seem to have been brought on this trip, so Subaru wanted to hurry up and settle things here so Emilia could see her cat again. There was also the possibility…

[User] “Barusu might have discovered something he shouldn’t have, and as a result of his rashness, his memory was stolen…that is certainly a believable story.”

[Assistant] “It feels like there’s a barb in the way you phrased that, but Betty is broadly in agreement. Also, regarding Subaru’s idea of prioritizing the clearing of this tower…It’s not ideal, but there is a logic to it, I suppose.”

[User] “Beatrice…” Beatrice was unhappy that recovering Subaru’s memory wasn’t a top priority. He appreciated that, but he had a major reason why he couldn’t just put himself first. They wouldn’t make it in time to prevent the tragedy that would happen if they took too long trying to cure his amnesia.

[Assistant] I—no, all of us need to prepare for that disaster.

[User] “Of course, it’s not like I want to stay like this forever. But I think, effectively speaking, the sooner we clear this tower, the sooner everything else is likely to be resolved, too. I want to do what needs to be done.” He was doing his best to keep the downsides of not having the old Subaru Natsuki here from showing.


[User] "—You really are stupid." Ram shook her head with a sigh and then looked around at everyone with her pink eyes.

[Assistant] "Even without his memory, that unfortunate head of his remains. So even if he got his memory back, the value of his contribution would only be marginally different from what it is now…in which case, it would be a waste to prioritize his memory. We should advance through the tower and hope that it returns along the way.”

[User] “There’s gotta be a better way to put that.” Subaru moaned.

[Assistant] “There isn’t. You lost your memories while trying to clear the tower, didn’t you? Then pick them up again along the way, too. Don’t make it my problem.”

[User] It was probably an understatement to say she must have had mixed feelings when he suggested not prioritizing his memory. But it was because of his promise that Ram had been able to say that so confidently…even though Subaru apparently broke his word all the time.

[Assistant] “It’s not like we have any positive means of getting his memory back. I agree with Natsuki and Ram. And it’s a bit optimistic, but there is the chance that his memories come back with time, too.”

[User] “I suppose I am in agreement by process of elimination. It is not the highest priority. Clearing the tower should be our current mission. However, if we find a way to recover your memories, I will prioritize it then. Lady Emilia and Lady Beatrice should not have to be saddened so.”

[Assistant] Subaru nodded deeply at Echidna’s and Julius’s answers.

[User] They hesitated a moment. “It hurts, but I’ll be patient. But…”

[Assistant] “But?”

[User] “Let me worry most about you sometimes.”

[Assistant] “Ugh…sorry…” Realizing he had effectively asked them to stop worrying about him until later, he lowered his head apologetically to Emilia.

[User] Beatrice sighed, watching them. “Emilia said what Betty wanted to say. That should have been most effective, so make sure you reflect on it.”

[Assistant] “Yeah, understood.”

[User] “—Can we try looking for Reid’s book in Taygeta?”


[Assistant] That was Subaru’s suggestion for the immediate problem in front of them: how to clear the second floor.

[User] “…His book? …But we don’t have an inkling how?”

[Assistant] “Ha-ha, good one, Emilia-chan.”

[User] “Subaru!” Emilia’s cute cheeks flushed in anger at Subaru’s reaction.

[Assistant] While still reveling in how adorable she could be, Subaru looked at the rest of the group. “I think Reid’s book of the dead is probably going to be the fastest guide for how to clear the second floor. What do you think?”

[User] “I asked this before, but how?” Emilia cocked her head.


[User] “I’m not against searching for a book. But we don’t know how to search for it. And…”

[Assistant] “…Is Reid Astrea’s book really in that archive?” Julius finished the thought. Having drawn everyone’s gaze, Julius turned his eyes, framed by long eyelashes, upward. As if looking through to the second floor beyond the ceiling.

[User] “It’s difficult to believe, but Reid Astrea, the great hero whose name was engraved in history, is waiting on the second floor for us to take on the challenge he has termed an examination. Reid Astrea is a man who lived four hundred years ago, and yet there is no doubt that the person waiting above is that very same person… But now there is reason to question his death.”

[Assistant] “Seeing how lively he is makes you question whether he actually died, right? I hadn’t really thought about that, but it’s a good question…”

[User] In truth, the reason Subaru assumed he’d died was because of what they had said. If he hadn’t known the man’s backstory, he would never have believed that Reid was dead. He was brimming with way too much vitality for that. No dead guy was that energetic.

[Assistant] “I think it’s safe to ignore that line of thought. I can’t imagine anyone could live for hundreds of years, so he should just be dead. Right, Beatrice?”

[User] “You cannot be so sure, I suppose. Despite appearances, Betty is four hundred years old.”

[Assistant] “And I’m around one hundred, I think?” Emilia said, chiming in.

[User] “Same here. Considering when I came into being, I’m probably around four hundred years old? Though I haven’t been awake that long.”

[Assistant] “Me too! Me too, Master! I’ve been waiting in vain for four hundred years! I was so lonely! I demand four hundred years’ worth of hugs!”

[User] “That’s an awful lot of super-long-lived characters?! And you too, Emilia-chan? !” He had been looking for confirmation, but what he got instead was an unexpected series of contradictions. He had not expected half the party to be centenarians. He had to mentally reset the group’s average age by more than a few decades. But in a way, it also made sense.

[Assistant] “R-right. Emilia-chan is a half-elf…that also explains her peerless beauty. Half-elves being long-lived and beautiful is a standard trope.”

[User] “Umm, y-yeah… Are you not scared of half-elves without your memory?”

[Assistant] “I guess if we’re talking scary, then you are scary cute. Looks like that could kill for real. If I saw you with my guard down while waking up, I might go blind forever. Even now, my eyes are watering.”

[User] “Mrgh…dummy…” Emilia’s cheeks turned just a little bit red as she got mad at Subaru.

[Assistant] The mood was starting to get a little weird, so he warned himself not to misunderstand her kindness. Be still, my heart. Well, you don’t have to, I guess, but…

[User] “Ha…on the other hand, you’re more of a relief, Beatrice."