Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu web novel

"That's the outline of how even a monkey could hunt the witch cult, it's simple… it's the same as the White Whale. I lure the others with my scent, and then I destroy the one I caught. Easy, right?"

　Everyone in the circle grimaced at the shallowness of the draft that Subaru had presented. Each person's reason was different - be it confusion, worry, anxiety, or they were just trying to imitate the funny look on the face of the person next to them - but fundamentally they all came to the same conclusion. That is to say,

"Isn't it dangerous to treat them like unintelligent beasts? No matter what, they're not an easy opponent to be lured by the same tactics as magic beasts."

"This is an easy opponent. At the very least, if a powerful person who can erase their presence is following me, I should have a good chance of success."

　Subaru shook his head at Julius' remark and recalled an earlier memory.

　It seemed that Subaru's presence was obvious to them in the forest where the Witch Cult had spread its net. No matter what route he took, they would always appear before him. This was surely proof that the lingering scent of the Witch that they could smell was drifting around from Subaru's body.

　But in reality, there was a suspicion that even if the Witch Cultists were able to sense Subaru's presence, they were not particularly adept at detecting other beings.

"When I was fighting with the Witch Cult guys earlier, they were so focused on me that they didn't notice the other guy who came flying up behind me."

　Subaru vaguely remembered a moment when a Witch Cultist reached out to subdue him, only to have his head crushed by an iron ball.

　--The memory of when Rem had desperately tried to protect Subaru from the Witch Cults after he'd been thrown from the dragon carriage and was groaning and covered in wounds.

　At that time, they didn't notice Rem's existence until they were attacked first.

　This was partly because she had been concentrating too much on Subaru, but it was also likely influenced by the fact that Rem was a skilled scientist who excelled at concealing her presence in the mountains.

　In other words,

"I just dangle the bait so they don't see anyone else who's out of their field of vision. Then I lure them out, who are supposed to be all over the forest, and find their hideout."

"And then they raid the hideout they find? But the abnormality will soon become known. If that happens, it's obvious that the followers of the other hideouts will start to move."

「That's why we need numbers. We'll keep an eye on any hideouts we find, and then when the signal is right, we'll launch a simultaneous attack and take them all down. How about that?」

　Subaru raised his finger to conclude his proposal, and Julius touched his lips thoughtfully. Next to him, Ferris nodded in admiration, saying, "I see," and Ricardo, Mimi, and the rest of the mercenary group were also impressed, saying it was worth considering. Meanwhile,

"There's one thing I'm curious about."

　The one who spoke raised his hand was a small beastman - Tibby, an adorable boy with the same height and features as Mimi, and a monocle adorning one eye.

　He was introduced as the youngest of the siblings Mimi and Hetaro, and looked at Subaru with eyes that shone with even more intelligence than his older sisters and brothers.

"Your employer seems to be very knowledgeable about the Witch Cult, but is that information trustworthy? The other party is the mysterious and ambiguous Witch Cult."

　Looking suspiciously at Subaru who seemed to know all too much about the situation, Tiby voiced his doubts. Subaru's reasonable statement made Subaru click his dry tongue,

"I have some sort of connection with those guys. In truth, I expected them to try and find out my true feelings. I did, but... you'll just have to trust me."

　I can't explain it.

　To speak of Return by Death would mean that the heart, whether it was one's own or someone else's, would suffer an agonizing pain that felt like the end of the world.

　So that was the very limit that Subaru could go as far as it could go. If anyone asked for more than that, it would be impossible for them to comply.

　Hearing Subaru's answer, Tibby narrowed her eyes even more and was about to speak further. --But,

"Honestly, if you just tell me to believe something without any evidence..."

"I don't know what you're so worried about. Come on, you're a boy, Tibby."

　Tibby's sister laughed heartily and smacked him hard on the back of the head.

　There was a tremendous popping sound, and Tibby's head lurched forward so far it looked like it was going to break. Mimi grabbed him by the back of his head, and turned him to face her brother, eyes wide.

"This guy is like that. He tried really hard to kill that huge fish, you know? There's no way that someone who tried so hard would be thinking of doing something nasty to Mimi and the others. I don't even need to think about it, he's an idiot."

"Oh, what about you, Big Sister?"

　Shaking her head, Tibby regained focus, and tried to back down, but Mimi, laughing with glee, once again thwarted his advance. As Tibby leaned forward, she timed her forehead to meet his face - the collision sent sparks flying in Tibby's eyes.

"Ahh."

"That's how it is, always so timid...huh? Squeak? Squeak? Squeak...?"

"Is that so clever?"

"Yes, that's it. If you keep doing that you'll never get big."

　The older sister who had headbutted her younger brother poked his forehead, where a bump had formed, with her finger, and her brother's face became teary before glancing back at Subaru.

"Tibby didn't fight with that fish. Maybe that's why you can't trust that big brother, but you can trust your big sister."

"..."

"You believe in me, Big Sister, so you should believe in me and in turn, believe in me too. If anything happens, Big Sister will protect you, Big Sister?"

　Mimi laughed and patted her brother on the shoulder. Tibby's eyes widened in surprise for a moment, but then she let out a sigh, her face deflated.

　The people around them burst into laughter at Tibby's behavior. Mimi tilted her head quizzically, and said,

"What's wrong?"

"Don't worry about it. I mean, you're fine the way you are. I said it."

　From above, his large palm completely covers Mimi's small head and strokes it roughly.

　Mimi had her eyes closed as she was ticklish even as he was twisting her neck. Ricardo stroked her around with great amusement.

"There are some things that I'm curious about, but I don't think I should suspect my big brother at this point. I've already passed that stage."

　Ricardo winked at Subaru, who was stunned and left behind by the flow of events. Wilhelm nodded and said, "That's right," as if following Ricardo's attitude.

"It was only thanks to Subaru-sama's cooperation that my wish was fulfilled. That is why I must respond to Subaru-sama's request. There is no need to harbor doubts or have any suspicions."

"I, am..."

　Subaru's lips trembled as he saw Wilhelm's trusting eyes.

　He can't come up with an excuse. He can't tell everything. But Wilhelm, Ricardo, and Mimi still believe in him.

"That is the trust that has been earned through what Subaru-dono has accomplished."

　Even though Subaru couldn't reveal the details, his track record was enough to give them reason to trust him.

　Just as Rem had believed in Subaru no matter what, right now they too were confused as to the truth of Subaru's words, but never doubted his true intentions.

　After repeatedly using Return by Death, Subaru had finally discovered a way to convey information about the future to them - and now, it was connected to something right in front of his eyes.

※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※

"I'm not happy that you believed me. These aren't tears of joy, they're just tears of regret because I remembered the time I missed recording the final episode of my favorite anime, so don't misunderstand me as being happy."

　--But Subaru's embarrassment at the end of his exchange with them is another story, but from there the plan to hunt down the Witch Cult was carried out swiftly and as planned.

　Subaru enters the Mathers territory and enters the forest where the Witch Cult is likely hiding out, on his own. Mimi, Tibby, and Wilhelm, all skilled in stealth, follow closely behind him.

　If the Witch Cultists showed up, attracted by Subaru's scent, they would guide them to the hideout, and then they would deploy part of the extermination force in hiding, and the process would be repeated.

"If we take what Duke Pete said at face value...there are probably ten hideouts in total."

　Betelgeuse had certainly referred to his subordinates as his "fingertips."

　She also remembers that the group that Rem had fought and annihilated in order to rescue Subaru was called the "Ring Finger." If that was correct, then the Witch Cult, including Petelgeuse's hideout, should have been split up into ten smaller groups this time.

　And in fact, thanks to Subaru's wandering through the forest, spreading his body odor all over the place, he had successfully discovered seven hideouts.

　However, by the time there were only two left, the sun had risen quite high in the sky, and if they took any more time, the presence of the people they had left in ambush would be exposed.

　With this decision in mind, and some trepidation still lingering, Subaru made his way through the familiar forest, to the cliff where Betelgeuse was waiting. There, he came face to face with the aforementioned "Sloth"--

"Did you do it?!"

　Wilhelm leapt in and slashed, bisecting Petelgeuse's slender body diagonally from behind. Petelgeuse's face was contorted in shock as he was slashed from shoulder to waist, and he glared at Subaru with bloodshot eyes,

"Masa――"

　And so it will never be known what the madman was trying to say.

　The silver flash drew an arc, breaking through the wind while scattering blood, then swung horizontally in a straight line, and the madman's head was blown easily into the air, spewing a fountain of blood.

　Subaru was left speechless by the splattering sight of a head flying off before his eyes. Immediately afterwards, a huge figure leapt into the air from above, raising a long hatchet in both hands and bringing it down in one swift motion, cutting through the headless torso with a dirty cutting edge.

　The sound of flesh being crushed between earth and steel resounded loudly, and upon hearing the sound of water, a feeling of nausea rose up in Subaru's throat. With all his strength, Subaru managed to spit out the liquid that was burning his mouth, and crouched down on the spot, looking up with teary eyes,

"Oh, it's over...right?"

"If this isn't the end, I might start to believe in the witch's blessings."

　Subaru asked timidly, and Ricardo, carrying the hatchet on his shoulder, answered. Looking away from the sight of Ricardo scraping off the pieces of flesh that had stuck to the edge of the blade with his fingers, Subaru saw the corpse of Betelgeuse at his feet - there, no longer resembling its original form.

　When the human body is destroyed to this extent, it feels almost artificial and unrealistic. I feel relieved that the urge to vomit has gone away.

"Everyone else is doing well."

"Even though the Sin Archbishops are the favorites, the main forces have gathered here. —Although, with Ferris and Julius-sama there should be no problem with command."

　After checking the head he had chopped off, Wilhelm returned and shrugged slightly.

　Although the old swordsman had given his stamp of approval, Subaru was still uneasy. They had the advantage in numbers, and this was a surprise attack after they had found the hideout. He had given instructions to attack without holding back, and the priority was to bury them alive, so there shouldn't be any problems, but...

"The Witch Cultists are all pretty militant. Even Rem would have a hard time fighting them."

"Ferris-han may be a problem, but Julius-bou shouldn't be a problem. The only ones who can go head to head with him are Vil-han and myself, after all."

"...I see, he is that strong."

　Subaru's feelings were somewhat complicated after hearing Ricardo's answer.

　Although it was very welcome that Julius was a strong ally who could be relied upon, the deep-rooted feeling of discomfort towards him still made it subtly difficult to accept that.

　Anyway,

"The hole on our side has been sealed, so there won't be any reinforcements, right?"

"The resonant waves from me and my sister caused the cave at the bottom of the cliff to completely collapse. I'm sorry if there was anyone inside."

　The beast-man siblings, who had been investigating the collapsed and buried cave, return. After hearing Tibby's report, Subaru is once again relieved that the danger in the area has been eliminated.

　Then he closed one eye and looked at the remains of what was once Betelgeuse.

"I'll finish them off in one go with an unexpected surprise attack. Honestly, I wasn't sure about that method, but don't take it personally. You're the bigger bastard after all."

　Although it ended in failure in this world, Subaru still found Petelgeuse's actions unforgivable. From what he had heard, this man who called himself "Sloth" had caused similar damage in many places around the world before. There was no room for leniency.

　The witches who were crushed by the collapse could be said to be just as guilty in this regard.

　Looking back, Subaru had no recollection of them harming him, but when he remembered how deeply Rem had been hurt, a bubbling rage also boiled up within him.

"Witch cultists are..."

"Yeah?"

"What on earth are these people trying to do? Witches are a strange existence that is hated all over the world."

　Subaru muttered a question, causing everyone to tilt their heads.

　Only four people had accompanied Subaru on his expedition to subjugate Petelgeuse. Wilhelm frowned in confusion, while Ricardo wrinkled his nose in disinterest. And Mimi was throwing dirt on the decaying Petelgeuse with her foot, and it was the only one left who had spoken.

"Maybe you have a wish for annihilation? If not, then you have a decadent mindset, or you believe that you are the most unfortunate people in the world and want to take them down with you?"

"That's negative. I don't understand it at all... but I wouldn't say it even if I split my mouth open."

　The desire for annihilation, the desire to drag everything down and make everything go unresolved, is something that anyone who has been forced into a hopeless situation can relate to.

　Subaru especially had a strong tendency towards this, so it's not hard to understand.

　As Subaru spoke those sentimental words, Ricardo waved his hand and shot him with his sharp eyes, baring his fangs,

"You can't sympathize with these guys. You can't have even a shred of understanding with them, not even a hair on your head. Otherwise, you won't be drawn into thinking of them as your comrades."

"I'm not going to go that far. Isn't it scary to think that there are people like us who don't even know a thing about what we're thinking?"

"So, that's a mistake."

　Poking the protesting Subaru on the forehead, Ricardo pointed to the cave, and then to the corpse of Betelgeuse buried beneath the earth,

"It's no good thinking of them as the same human beings. We are different creatures. That's why we can't understand each other, and we can't communicate with each other. If you try to understand each other, you won't understand even if the 'Gospel' is delivered to you."

"Gospel... do you know anything about it?"

　Time and again, those words had been uttered by Betelgeuse.

　"Gospel" - Subaru had assumed that this was the black-bound book that Petelgeuse was holding, but...

"I'm also curious as to why you were so keen on hunting the Witch Cult. Do you have any connection with them?"

"...Well, Oniichan. Since you seem ignorant, I'll just say it, but staying away from the Witch Cult and telling people not to try to understand them is common sense. It's common sense, just like why witches are so hated. The Gospel isn't that complicated either."

　Shaking his head, Ricardo dodged Subaru's question as if it was bothersome. Subaru was about to open his mouth to say something at his attitude, but Wilhelm spoke before him.

"The Gospel is something that every Witch Cult follower has in their hands... well, you could even say it's like a holy book."

"Scripture...?"

"Well, it's sent to people who are likely to join the Witch Cult. And once they get their hands on it... it's amazing, they become Witch followers."

「Wha――?!」

　Subaru was left speechless by Ricardo's playful manner.

　If we read between the lines, doesn't that mean that those who were sent the book known as the "Gospel" could be brainwashed by it and forced to join the Witch Cult against their will?

"If that's the case, then the people who were buried alive will suffer the consequences..."

"Subaru-dono, that's not true."

　Subaru was panicked and his face was pale, so Wilhelm quickly tried to calm him down. Subaru's eyes were wandering, and he nodded deeply to reassure him.

"Once the 『Gospel』 arrives, there is no turning back. And the moment the person opens it, their intentions are clear. There is no salvation for those who have been brainwashed. Did the Sin Archbishop you faced appear sane to you?"

"N-no, that's not the case... but I feel like that's an exception."

　Petelgeuse's abnormal behavior raised concerns about the degree of contamination by the Witch's Cult in a way that was different from brainwashing. To be honest, it was extremely difficult to draw any convincing conclusions from that, but even so, it didn't seem like Wilhelm was going to say anything to comfort him, so Subaru swallowed his concerns and forgot about them.

"Hey hey, isn't it okay now? There's no point in chattering away here, so let's go back to where everyone is."

　Mimi, who hadn't been involved in the conversation up until this point, spoke up impatiently.

　Waving her tail that was sticking out from the bottom of her slippers, she finished giving Betelgeuse's body a simple burial, then hopped around on the spot.

"We've already killed the enemy, so we need to go and see if everyone else has been killed. Right, let's do that!"

"You talk in a drawn-out manner, but when you calm down and listen to what you say, it sounds pretty dangerous. Combined with your cute appearance, I think the cultural gap is quite appealing."

"Ehehe, being cute makes me blush."

　Having only heard the convenient parts, Subaru sighed and turned to look at the embarrassed Mimi.

　The cave was completely silent, and for the time being there was no sign of the shocking regeneration of Betelgeuse's corpse. It was a rather disappointing situation, but as Mimi had said - this was the end of what could be done here, and at least the confrontation with the Witch Cult for today.

　And it was a complete victory for Subaru, which was the best possible outcome.

"But, do you really think it will go that well? I mean, it's me. Think about how many times I've tried my best and been betrayed up until now. Such a good deal… there's bound to be a catch somewhere…"

"What are you being suspicious of? Let's go quickly. We'll just keep you waiting."

　Muttering to himself, Subaru couldn't quite believe his own results, to which Ricardo replied with an exasperated look on his face.

　Subaru responded to him with a "Y-yes," still feeling a little unsure and regretful, and left the place after them as they set off.

　They must circle the forest and reunite with their comrades. Only when they can confirm that they are safe can they conclude this battle as a victory.

　and,

"---Isn't this a flag that suggests he pretended to disappear, but then came back to life!?"

　Subaru came running back and slid into the track, kicking up a cloud of dust.

　Looking up, I saw Petelgeuse's shabby grave still there, with no sign of him crawling out from underneath. No sign of a resurrection.

"Hmm, there's no way that's true, it's a third-rate horror movie."

"What the hell have you been doing all this time?! Get back here quickly or I'll get mad at you!!"

　Subaru, still filled with suspicion, was hit by Ricardo, who then roughly hoisted him onto his shoulders.

　Carried by the tall beastman, Subaru finally left the scene.

　This time for sure. And――

"Onii-san is being noisy so just to be sure-"

　Then, the magic ore that Mimi released explodes Petelgeuse's grave.

　This time, there was no worry, and Petelgeuse, Archbishop of the Witch Cult's Sin of Sloth, was reduced to pieces.

※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※

"From the looks of it, it looks like you've managed to get that sorted out as well."

　Picking up Patrasche, who had been waiting for them halfway across the forest, Julius looked up at Subaru, who was straddling his back, a smile etched on his lips.

　"Oh," Julius sighed lightly, his bangs slightly disheveled, and some blood splattered on his majestic Royal Guardsman uniform. Judging from the way he wiped the blade of the slender sword in his hand, it seemed that their first strike had not resulted in a crushing victory.

"Unfortunately, four of us had already gone outside when your signal was sent up into the sky. I had no choice but to destroy the hideout and eliminate the cultists at the same time. I should say it was good that I was there. It must have been a bit of a hassle in Ferris."

　As he spoke, Julius sheathed his sword after wiping it down. He turned his head and saw the aforementioned four black-clad corpses lying there.

　The corpses had been carefully disposed of with a single blow, without marring his graceful demeanor. Each had been pierced in a single spot in the neck or torso, and collapsed, bleeding from the pierced spot. From Subaru's memory, they had been fairly skilled, so this was a subtle proof of Julius's great skill.

"So, what about the Sin Archbishop?"

"Wilhelm-san chopped off the head, and Ricardo smashed the body. After that, Koneko's sister blew the corpse to pieces as a prank, so I'm pretty sure it happened."

　Even Subaru was surprised that his grave had been pulverized, but it was hard to complain when it was clearly stated that it was done out of Subaru's thoughts.

　By the way, the older sister, who was scolded mercilessly by everyone, has completely sulked and is now curled up on her younger brother's back with a pouting lip. The younger brother, who is being slung over her shoulders, is the one who is getting the blame.

　As Subaru nodded sincerely, Julius turned his gaze to Wilhelm behind him. Receiving the meaningful glance, Wilhelm replied in a quiet voice, "There's no doubt about it," and for the first time in Julius's mind,

"Hmm, that's a relief. If Lord Wilhelm says so, then there can be no doubt about it. At the very least, it seems we were able to defeat the Witch Cult's commander here."

「You didn't trust my answer, did you?! I'm not playing around so I checked it carefully! In fact, I looked at it two or three times!」

"I'm sorry, I'll apologize. Now that I've apologized, let's move on."

"You're the one who has to switch. That's what I hate about you!"

　Subaru stomped his feet, showing his anger at Julius' aloof attitude. Julius glanced at Subaru as if he was looking at something lukewarm, then looked around his surroundings,

"I can't see Ricardo. Where is he?"

"Those fake kobolds are there to greet Ferris. Since Wilhelm said that there are currently no signs of fighting in the forest, I thought it would be quicker if we split up and went to meet them."

　In the worst case scenario, the signs of fighting may mean the battle has already ended.

　In that case, the group, including Ferris, who lacks fighting power, would be wiped out in an instant, which would be a ridiculous situation.

"Well, to prevent that from happening, I had Ferris gather some capable people. With this, even though he's a recovery specialist and completely useless at attacking, we should be able to do something…"

"Thank you for taking the time to be considerate ♪"

　Suddenly, someone blew air into his ear from behind, and Subaru's limbs went taut in shock. Turning his head with just a quick glance, he saw a cute, small face staring back at him, and realizing that it was a man, his face turned pale rather than blushing.

「Seriously, who gains from this? Stop it, seriously stop it. This isn't a pretense, if you do it again I'll land a deadly punch on the side of your cute little face. It'll have a big bang impact.」

"You're so embarrassed, it's so cute. Don't worry, Subaru-kun's Feli-chan has come back for you."

　Subaru was put off by Ferris, who gave him a wink and a blown kiss, and with his shoulders slumped, he went to check on him. At a glance, he looked no different than when they'd parted ways. Unlike Julius, everything seemed to be going well for him.

　Ricardo returned with Ferris, followed by the other members who had accompanied him.

"Everyone has reunited safely... there hasn't been any failure, right?"

"It seems that fighting has broken out in two places, including here, but there are no problems. As expected from people who have been trained under Lord Wilhelm's command. Their natural strength is different."

　She had heard that the members who accompanied Ferris were especially the best of the best. It was only natural given the rarity of Ferris's skills, given his nickname of "Blue," but if that was the case, she didn't really understand Crusch's intentions in sending him to the front lines so willingly.

"That is Lady Crusch's sincerity. Don't make me say it, idiot."

"nothing..."

　Subaru's thoughts were clearly visible on his face, as Ferris, who had read his thoughts perfectly, scolded him.

　Anyway,

"Most of the Witch Cult has been annihilated… but the problem is that we still haven't found the other two hideouts. We've crushed the head, so if we're being optimistic, I think they'll back off…"

"We're up against the Witch Cult. It would be better if we didn't think about it normally."

　Ricardo said this with his arms crossed, as if to confirm Subaru's concerns. It seemed the people around him agreed with him, as most of them had stern expressions and hunched their chins.

　In fact, Subaru himself had thought that leaving those uncertainties unattended was out of the question, and so he chose to deal with them in a prudent manner.

"Let's search the forest and hunt down the rest of the Witch Cult. I'm not talking about killing them all or anything, but... I think it's worth at least trying to catch them."

"I think there's a high possibility that she will commit suicide... It's always been that way."

　Julius spoke in a quiet voice, as if to change Subaru's overly naive perception. Subaru gasped, but Julius also showed a pained look on his face,

"If we can avoid killing them, then of course it's best to do so. I agree that we should prioritize capturing them and then search for the remaining cultists. However, I also think it would be a good time to go and inform Lord Roswaal of the situation. What do you think?"

"...Ah, I see. That's right."

　The suggestion brought Subaru back to mind a reality that he had completely forgotten.

　Subaru deliberately chose to quickly eliminate the Witch Cult, rather than rushing straight to the mansion and keeping Emilia out of danger. This was largely due to the fact that he didn't want to change the future too much, and thus deviate from the known state of whether or not Betelgeuse would attack.

　And now that he had successfully defeated Betelgeuse himself,

"Is it okay if I go back to the mansion...?"

　As soon as he spoke those words, a sudden sense of reality hit Subaru.

　The blood began to rise to his face, and his whole body became extremely hot, a sensation he hadn't been aware of for a long time.

　Now I can proudly return to the mansion in triumph.

　He could show up in front of Emilia, boasting about his success, and apologize for his shameful behavior from a few days ago, and for the many ways he had betrayed her trust. He could apologize from the bottom of his heart to her for the terrible hurt he had unintentionally caused her, when he had only been thinking about himself at the time.

　And only after they make up will Subaru be able to start a new relationship with Emilia.

"Damn, I'm getting worked up. If that's the case, I want to get back to the mansion as soon as possible. Go home! Yankee go home!"

"You're free to get angry, but this has to take priority. So, what are we actually going to do? It's those Witch Cult people, you know."

　Seeing Subaru struggling and becoming impatient, Ferris narrowed his eyes maliciously and scolded him. Subaru stammered, "Ugh," and Julius shook his head, saying it couldn't be helped. He raised a finger, drawing the attention of those around him.

"Let's do it this way. We will split into two groups, one heading to Roswaal-sama's mansion and the other searching for the Witch Cult in the forest. Subaru should head to the mansion as the messenger, and above all as a related party. There's no guarantee we won't be attacked by the Witch Cult on the way. It will be enough if Wilhelm-sama and a few others act as guards. The rest of us will explore the forest, with me and Ricardo at the head. How's that?"

　Having quickly put everything together, Julius looked at Subaru for confirmation.

　The look on his face, as if to say that he had saved him the trouble, made Subaru feel a rebellious spirit well up within him, but he took a deep breath and held it in,

"Let's do that. I'm counting on you all, follow Julius' plan."

"got it"

　Subaru begged, and the old swordsman nodded in response.

　After that, other people around one by one agreed, and the situation was resolved.

　And so, once everyone had agreed and everyone was united, Julius suddenly raised his hand and said, "Is it okay?"

"I'm not Julius, I'm the wandering mercenary Yuri. Don't get that wrong."

"No one remembers that setting anymore!"

　And with a unified voice, a shout echoed through the forest sky.

※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※

"This is bad. My heart is beating so hard I feel like I'm going to throw up."

　Subaru leaned against her and muttered weakly, which made Patrasche whine softly. He seemed a little annoyed, probably because he was smart enough to know that the Subaru on his back was seriously feeling like vomiting. Even so, he didn't shake her off, which was at least a sign of the trust that had been cultivated between them.

"I wonder if the fatigue from riding an earth dragon that you're not used to has disappeared with relief?"

Subaru: "That may be the case, but it's probably something else… To be honest, just thinking about meeting Emilia-tan makes me feel terrified."

　After all, when I think back, it was the worst breakup ever.

　From Subaru's perspective, that incident had been over two weeks ago, and the rage of that moment had been largely digested by now. But for Emilia, it had only been four days ago. Unlike Subaru, it didn't seem like she had experienced any dramatic change in her state of mind since then.

　He had already confirmed that during the brief time he had spent with her in the previous loop. The same could be said about the terrible mistake Subaru had made then.

"I don't know the details, but apparently they had a falling out."

"That's exactly what I'm saying, it's tough. What is it? What is it, it's so awkward to see each other. Ugh... my stomach, my stomach hurts. Also my chest hurts from love."

"You seem to be in more pain than when you were taking on the White Whale. I understand how you feel."

　Wilhelm smiled at Subaru, who was trying to lighten the mood with some light-hearted chatter. Surprised by his gentle attitude, Subaru exclaimed in admiration, "Wow."

"Wilhelm, did you feel depressed when you had a fight with your wife?"

"Of course. In my case, if I made my wife angry, I couldn't win physically. I was often forced to kill her."

「The Sword Saint really is amazing isn't he!?」

"Then I would forcefully hold them in my arms and hold them tight until the anger melted away."

"I thought the wife story was pretty gross!"

　Wilhelm was in a somewhat bright mood as talk of his resurrected bride took hold.

　Feeling envious of that bold attitude, Subaru slapped himself across the cheek with all his might. His predecessor was trying to ease his hardened heart. To ignore such feelings would be a failure as a boy.

"You're not seriously going to continue pushing the topic about your wife in the future, are you?"

"I don't know what you're talking about. Oh."

　Subaru asked timidly, to which Wilhelm replied with a nonchalant look. Then, suddenly, his eyes narrowed as he looked ahead.

　Following her gaze, Subaru realized that the road had suddenly widened and that he was on a regular road - a road that connected the mansion to the village, and that the village was within sight.

　Wilhelm could also see the entrance to the village in question, just ahead of him.

"That village is the closest to the mansion. But do you know that, Wilhelm?"

"Yes. I visited the mansion once with Ferris. We also crossed the village, but... it's strange."

　Wilhelm still had his eyes narrowed, and a slight sense of tension was beginning to radiate from his entire body. This ominous state stirred up anxiety, and Subaru felt a bad feeling rise up from the depths of his stomach.

"Wh-what's wrong? Something strange is happening..."

"There are an unusually large number of dragon carriages parked in the village. Subaru-dono, please wait here. I will go and see what is going on."

　Wilhelm then spoke similar words to his subordinates who were accompanying him.

　Then, with a light kick from the ground, his body leapt over the road as if caught by the wind, and he glided straight into the village.

　And so, roughly three minutes had passed since Wilhelm had rushed inside.

　Subaru's teeth chattered in fear that the incident he thought he had avoided had struck again. All that came to his mind was the gruesome deaths of the villagers he had seen twice, and the blank-faced girl - Petra - was burned into his mind clearly.

　I never want to go through that again. And yet, I tried so hard to avoid it, so why did it happen――

"Lord Subaru."

　As Subaru closed his eyes and began to cry, one of the knights suddenly called out to him. Subaru instinctively turned his face in that direction, and saw him pointing towards the village. He followed the tip of the man's finger and saw Wilhelm waving at him at the entrance to the village.

　There was not the slightest trace of the tension he had felt earlier, and after hastily rushing over to the scene, Subaru finally understood the reason.

　There were over twenty dragon carriages lined up in the village. Naturally, the earth dragons and drivers that pulled them had also entered the village as a set.

　Where did that unfamiliar group of dragon carriages come from, and the reason for that was――,

"Oh, I see. It's my insurance."

"It seems so. This was the moment you left the royal capital?"

"Yeah. I'll ask Anastasia and Russell-san for a bit."

　Subaru smirked at the overwhelming sight of the lined-up dragon carriages and looked towards the center of the village, where he saw a representative of the dragon carriages and a representative of the village arguing with each other.

　There was probably some disagreement between the two sides that had not communicated well. If the arrival of the dragon carriages was as Subaru had expected, it would take some time for the talks to go smoothly, so now was the perfect time for mediation.

「Wait a moment, wait a moment! Okay, attention here! I'm sure we both have a lot to say, but please listen to what I have to say first!」

　Subaru got off Patrasche and ran over to them, stepping in between the two as the atmosphere between them became tense.

　There were two people, a man and a woman, arguing with each other, and Subaru turned to look at the man who looked the most furious. When he saw that person, he involuntarily let out a small "ah."

　It was a familiar face. Surely, it was the person who introduced Otto to Subaru in the very first loop.

"Your name, um, I forgot it… but you're the traveling merchant who came here on an order from the Royal Capital's Guild, right?"

"That's true, but... what about you? You seem quite strange to me as a peddler."

"I'm more or less on the employer's side. There was a slight misunderstanding and things weren't going smoothly. I managed to get things through to both the higher-ups and the middle-schoolers."

　If the requested letter had been delivered to the mansion, then the confusion would not have arisen to this point, but it appears that it has not yet reached Emilia.

　If she knew the situation, she would have made the best decision.

"Well, that's why, stop please."

　Stopping the man who was about to continue, Subaru casually looked around his surroundings, wondering if Otto, the merchant with whom he had had many connections, had wandered in, but after a quick glance he couldn't find him, which made him feel a little disappointed.

　Subaru then turned to face the woman, who appeared to be representing the village. She had long, soft reddish brown hair and slanted eyes.

"For now, please hear me out. For the sake of the owner of those familiar, unforgettable eyes with white of the white of the sky – who are you?"

　The woman in front of Subaru frowned as if she didn't understand what he meant.

　However, it was her reaction that Subaru could not understand. Because,

"I know the faces of everyone in this village, and I'm confident that everyone knows me. And yet, I don't know your face… Who are you, standing here representing the village?"

　Spurred on by his excitement, Subaru asked quickly.

　And for Subaru, who had been on his guard up until this very moment, that was his first and most regrettable slip of the tongue.

　--As if by sudden explosion, the shadow of the woman in front of me suddenly swelled up.

"--What!?"

　Subaru was left speechless by the familiar scene, and by the time he realized it, it was already too late.

　The swollen shadow rose into the sky and began to spread out like a whirlpool, then like a thread unravelling, it transformed into multiple, overlapping black demonic hands - and attacked everyone in sight.

　The gathered peddlers, the villagers who had been watching from afar, Wilhelm and his subordinates who had quickly sensed something was wrong with Subaru and rushed over to help, and even Subaru, who was the only one who had noticed what had happened right in front of his eyes, but was paralyzed and missed his chance.

　Black arms wrapped around everyone's necks, completely restricting their movement.

"This isn't how it should be... because this is..."

　Subaru gasped at the intense pressure pressing down on his throat, his forehead covered in sweat as shock pierced his entire body.

　This phenomenon, this occurrence, was, without a doubt, something that should have been brought to an end――

"Ahh――My brain is shaking."

　Subaru heard a woman mutter this quietly in front of him.

　Subaru opened his eyes wide in shock and stared at the person before him.

　Within reach, the woman with her face down took the finger she had raised into her mouth and bit into the tip of it with great violence. Blood dripped, and everyone was frozen in place by her actions, holding their breath. In the strangely silent world, the woman raised her head.

　His mouth was stained with blood and adorned with a ghastly, manic smile.

"I am the Archbishop of the Witch Cult's Deadly Sins..."

　Kick, kick, kick.

"The 'Sloth' representative--"

　Manic laughter, roars of laughter, and jeers rang out.

"--Petelgeuse Romanee-Conti, Death!!"

　I heard the woman loudly state the name of the man she thought she had killed.

　Manic laughter echoed throughout the room.

　Kick, kick, kick.

　-- Clop, clop, clop, clop, clop, clop.