Re:Zero kara Hajimeru Isekai Seikatsu web novel

"Just call me. Whether it's a long talk or a short one, let's have a serious discussion."

　Roswaal glares at the two who stand at the entrance to the room, one eye closed, his yellow gaze piercing them.

　Entangled in his sticky gaze, Otto, who was standing next to him, gasped as if bathed in a demonic power. The demon's hand reached out towards Subaru as well, but having been on edge to begin with, he managed to avoid being engulfed by a simple throat clearing and maintained his position.

"I'm embarrassed when you come to greet me with your makeup on and all that you've put into it."

"Oh, don't worry about it. You told me to wear this makeup again."

"Oh, that's right."

　After the contract and bet were concluded, Subaru told Roswaal before leaving the room. He had never really expected him to actually follow his orders, but

"Originally, for me, putting on this makeup was like preparing for battle. In order to push things forward according to the Gospel, I needed to be constantly on my guard. So I was putting on makeup as a way of self-suggestion to keep me on my toes."

　Upon hearing this unexpected story, Subaru couldn't help but stare at her face.

　The white face, the mysterious eyeliner, the red lips and the distinctive left eye sign... all of these things had a deeper meaning than just teasing the other person.

"Or maybe you're just trying to sound suggestive, aren't you?"

"I wish you would just believe me. Well, I guess I'll leave that to your imagination. After the gospels deviated from their descriptions, I gave up on the continuation of the world and stopped wearing makeup… so what's the point of me now wearing makeup like this again? That's the same thing."

　Subaru gritted his teeth and tried to resist the change in his expression as Roswaal indirectly explained.

　If Roswaal's earlier words about preparing for battle were true, then the reason he stood before Subaru and the others with makeup once again was clear.

　It seems that he has regained the motivation he had lost, the will to live in this world.

　Even if it was something that stemmed from the same kind of negative hope Subaru had previously had, to end this world and place his hopes in the next one.

"Maybe it would have been better for you if I hadn't been so motivated."

"That's not true. Your name, lineage, authority, and power are all essential for Emilia-tan to become king. I can't have you become an empty shell. I'll get you motivated, then crush it, show you a different hope, and pull you out."

"That's encouraging... If it's possible, why not give it a try?"

　As Subaru boldly declared war again and again, Roswaal's mouth twisted in amusement. Then, still smiling, he looked next to Subaru and said, "Even so,"

"The guy sitting spacey next to you is Otto-kun who was introduced to me. Compared to how lively he was the other day, he seems a lot more withered now, doesn't he?"

"Rather than being disheartened, I was genuinely scared. I greeted the person hoping to curry favor with them, but the next time I looked at their face, I saw they were wearing clown make-up. It's only natural that I'd be so surprised I peed my pants, right?"

"Why is this guy trying to make someone else out to be a loser? And please don't say I was trying to curry favor with him so obviously! It will leave a bad impression!"

"It might make a bad impression, but cooperating with me when I'm acting in direct opposition to them is not going to give a good impression. At the very least, let's make sure we're recognized as a formidable opponent, so that we can rank highly when the popularity poll comes around."

"I have no idea what you're talking about, you know?"

　Subaru could see that Otto's tension had eased somewhat as he began to make his usual noise. Otto himself had a complicated expression on his face, realizing that the exchange had been intended to help him relax.

　And as he watches Subaru and Otto communicate with just eye contact, Roswaal smiles meaningfully and runs his fingers down his cheek.

"You two must be really close friends if you can communicate with just your eyes. I've known you for longer than you, but I can't help but feel jealous."

「Don't say such disgusting things. The first and second places in my heart are always sold out. There's no way I'm leaving an opening for you guys… or even for you bastards to get in, you bastards.」

Subaru: "That's unfortunate. However, if that's the case… it looks like Beatrice will also go unrewarded. I wonder what that girl thinks."

"――――"

　As a means of diversion, that word had an incredible effect on Subaru.

　He hadn't expected to hear Beatrice's name come out of Roswaal's mouth in this situation, and the shock, coupled with the annoyance at his knowing look, came as if he'd been slapped in the face.

"About Beatrice..."

"That child is following the guidance of the Gospels in her own way. In that sense, I guess you could say that we are comrades. Although, there is a difference in how we approach the descriptions in the Gospels, since I am proactive and she is passive."

"If you can get results just by waiting, then isn't that unnecessary? I agree with that... but in his case, the curse of the command to wait is too strong."

"That's only natural, I guess."

　Following the orders of her creator, Echidna, Beatrice continues to wait for the non-existent "person" inside the Forbidden Books Archives of Roswaal Mansion. As a spirit, given only one purpose since birth, her only reason for existence is to continue to cling to orders with an honest attitude.

　In terms of stubbornness, Beatrice is similar to Roswaal.

　The memory of when she begged Subaru to let her die was still fresh.

　And also the expression on his face when he protected Subaru at the end of the events that followed at the mansion.

　that's why--.

"I'll lift that curse as well. I'll drag her out of that moldy room and dry her out in the sun along with the book and the dress. Whether she'll be rewarded or not will be up to her from then on."

"――――"

　Subaru made this clear statement, and Roswaal narrowed his eyes as if he was looking at something dazzling. He then let out a short sigh and turned his gaze towards Otto, who had been waiting for an opportunity to join the conversation, and,

"So? Considering the fact that I brought you here and our conversation up until now… I guess it's okay to think of Otto-kun over there as a card on your side."

"No, no, I'm merely a sort of arranger to make the conditions uniform. I have no intention of doing something dishonest like petitioning the Margrave…"

"Don't back down at this point! Tell him straight up! I don't like your clown make-up, so if I beat you I'll paint you with red and white eyeshadow!"

"I don't remember saying that, what is a kumadori?!"

　Subaru gave a meaningless thumbs up at Otto, who was about to launch into a tirade he had no memory of, but Subaru's attitude made Roswaal close one eye thoughtfully and send Otto a meaningful look.

"I suspect… your presence is the reason why Subaru-kun's enthusiasm has changed. Isn't that rather embarrassing?"

"I'm not denying it, but... if you think about it, it seems a bit odd that I would be revived by borrowing the power of a male character, right? Normally, wouldn't it be the main heroine who gets me back on my feet?"

"I can't say anything when people look at me with reproachful eyes."

　Subaru responded to the rebellious gaze with a gesture, and convinced himself that it couldn't be helped.

　He had borrowed the strength to stand up from elsewhere. This time, it was Subaru's turn to take the main heroine's hand and help her stand. At least, that was what he had decided in his mind.

　Subaru closed his eyes once, then opened them again. Noticing the sharpness in his gaze, Roswaal straightened up and the atmosphere in the room shifted.

　Roswaal begins by saying, "Well then," as he sits on his futon, hands clasped together.

"When you're isolated like this under the pretense of recuperating, you're left with nothing to do. It's impossible not to get bored. So... all I do is listen."

"That's in bad taste."

Subaru: "But you, you don't seem to be plotting anything evil. …Have you now at least had a good idea of ​​how this 'Sanctuary' came to be, and just how complicated the environment surrounding it is?"

"The whole thing is so complicated and perplexing, it's really giving me a headache. When you and Emilia's Trials are added to the mix, saying we're completely cornered doesn't even begin to describe it."

　Subaru readily admits that the situation is difficult, but he has already factored in the poor chances of success.

　Subaru tells Roswaal that he has confirmed the situation with Otto again, and holds up his finger to show that he still has no intention of giving up on trying to improve the situation.

"The contract, the bet, is due in three days. I intend to make big moves between tomorrow and the day after… but please don't get in the way too much."

"That's not possible. The fulfillment of the Gospels is my greatest wish. I don't think I need to explain this to you again and again, do you?"

"I will have Emilia pass the Trial within three days and convince Garfiel. It will be a good thing for you to have a stronger camp. I can guarantee you a much brighter future than relying on that Gospel."

"If that's what you mean, then maybe that future isn't so bad after all."

　Even at this point, Subaru continues to try to persuade him, knowing it's no use. Suddenly, Roswaal lowers his eyes and mutters something that seems to be reminiscing about the future they've presented.

　However, when he raised his face again, there was no hesitation in his different colored eyes.

"There is no certainty. That is reason enough for me to reject the future you bring about. If I follow the Gospel, the future I desire is guaranteed. No matter how many things I have to sacrifice in order to obtain that future, I don't care. There is only one thing I desire."

"For the sake of one very important thing, will you abandon everything else that is watching you? What will become of the people who support your current position, and of Ram?"

"Hey hey, get over it, Subaru-kun. What good will it do to ask me about my resolve now? My answer won't change, and so will what you have to do."

"――――"

　The result of an obvious persuasion was an obvious rejection.

　Roswaal doesn't listen to what Subaru is saying. Just as Subaru had rejected Roswaal's proposal and Echidna's contract, his "best" was already in his heart.

"...I knew it, I'll never be like you, Roswaal."

"Is that so? …That's truly unfortunate, Subaru-kun."

　Leaning back against the pillow, Roswaal lets out a quiet sigh. There is a hint of disappointment; perhaps it is the hopes Roswaal had for Subaru that are the cause.

　Roswaal believes that Natsuki Subaru, whose all possibilities have been sealed away, will surely reach the same state as him, and so he throws himself into a lonely battle, even risking his life for it.

"Let's get back to the main topic. If that's okay, Margrave."

　As the room began to fall silent, Otto stepped forward and spoke. Roswaal turned his yellow eyes towards the grey-haired young man and accepted his silence as an affirmation.

　Otto turned towards Subaru with just his head and nodded in his direction,

"I think we have both agreed that the deadline for this situation, which would shake up this 'Sanctuary', is three days from now. Similarly, the Margrave will keep Natsuki in check, but will also quietly observe the process."

"I'll just wait and see... I don't remember ever allowing him to say something like that."

「But you can think of the fact that I haven't been reduced to ashes here as a declaration of that intention, right? With the power of the Margrave Roswaal L. Mathers, the head court magician of the Kingdom of Lugnica, I should be able to reduce me to mana fragments in an instant. After all, it would be the easiest way to thwart Natsuki-san's goal, within the constraints of not breaking my bet with her.」

"law"

　Subaru held his breath as he watched Otto carefully and fluently lay out his logic. His words were more fired up than they'd ever been during the meeting.

　Roswaal, reading the meaning of Otto's words, also looked surprised.

"You're interesting, aren't you? I thought I'd said something similar about you before… but let me correct that. You're a much more interesting person than I'd imagined."

"I guess I can consider it a compliment..."

"That's an empty compliment. Ahh, it's amazing. By standing here alongside Subaru-kun, you have risked your life to prove the logic I just stated. That's really a noble decision, and one I like. It's not something I can easily imitate."

"That's... thank you very much."

　Although he felt somewhat overwhelmed by Roswaal's courage, Otto faced him fearlessly. As Otto himself had said, this was a demon who could reduce him to ashes with the touch of a finger if he wanted to, and he was in a position where this could happen to him.

　In fact, if Roswaal was serious about making a contract with Subaru at all costs, then he should just do the cowardly thing Otto had said. Even if he didn't, if he burned down the Sanctuary first, or brought about a heavy snowfall early to summon the Great Rabbit, there would be nothing Subaru could do to stop him. The bet would be a sure loss for Subaru.

　Otto, who is unaware of "Return by Death," seems to think that Subaru's survival is essential to the success of the bet, but between Subaru and Roswaal, who share the common understanding of "Return by Death," even Subaru's survival is not a prerequisite. It could be said that when they made the contract, Subaru's biggest concern was whether or not he would be burned to death from behind.

　What else can we do but watch and wait when Roswaal remains silent in the face of this outrageous act?

"In any case, I want your assurance, Margrave. No matter what we plan to do or how we carry it out… you will not resort to extreme measures until the deadline, three days from now."

"You're being bold again, asking for a definite promise."

"It's a gamble I don't think you can do if you're constantly worrying about whether someone will get in the way or not. If you're betting everything on losing, Natsuki-san, then it's not that big of a deal not to make an effort, right?"

"――――"

　Otto gestures and twists the corners of his mouth, and Roswaal's gaze sharpens.

　Watching the negotiations with bated breath, Subaru sensed that Otto had made his move. He had provoked Roswaal by saying that if he "went along" then they would lose.

　A suffocating silence hung heavy in the room for a while. But,

"I see. Subaru, you're truly blessed with great friends."

"...Yeah, that's right. If I make a mistake, he's a good friend who'll punch me in the face."

　When Subaru responded to the smiling Roswaal, he looked off into the distance.

　Subaru suddenly wonders, what if Roswaal didn't have Otto? When Subaru was about to make a mistake, Otto hit him and corrected him.

　Was there no one in Roswaal's life who could straighten out his stubbornly twisted thinking?

"So there's no other way. Though it's four hundred years late, we're going to do it."

"――――"

"Roswaal! I think your attitude just now means you agree!"

　Subaru's insistence made Roswaal smile wryly. Roswaal tilted his clownish face to one side,

"Okay, I promise. In any case, I will need to refine my mana so that it will snow in three days. Let me just say that, even for someone as skilled as me, it can be quite hard to control the weather, you know? Only temporarily, and in a limited area."

"Well then, it's time for you to meditate. For reference, if you could tell me what you don't like to be done to you while meditating, that would help me out and make the most of it."

"I have no interest in sending salt to my enemies to that extent. I simply understand that there is no need for me to do anything, and that your objective will not be achieved."

　That's the one thing I won't give in on.

　Subaru snorted at the sarcastic remark, and Otto sighed with a tired look on his face.

　However, I was able to successfully extract one of the main reasons I came here.

　In order to bet on the favorite, it was essential that Roswaal not interfere.

　Just being able to secure that promise was a great achievement. Otto was even more eloquent than I had expected.

"By the way, Subaru-kun."

"--a?"

"I heard that the Great Spirit had left Lady Emilia."

　The change of topic was like a blow to my relieved thoughts.

　Straightening his crooked back, Subaru nodded in response to Roswaal's question, "Yes."

"Something went wrong in the contract between Emilia and Puck, and the connection was torn apart. If we look at it from the perspective of a spirit user, Emilia no longer has the right to be called that."

"I heard that you were very sad... but is it okay for you to have something happen at this last moment that would further crack your already wounded heart?"

"...I wonder. At the very least, we will have to postpone tonight's Trial. We won't know what effect it will have from tomorrow onwards until Emilia wakes up."

　In fact, even though Puck had warned him beforehand about Emilia's state of grief, it was so overflowing with grief that it made him want to cover his eyes.

　Pushing Emilia into a corner like that with only two days left was merely narrowing the door on an already slim chance of winning, as she was taking on a gamble with even less chance of success.

　However, the fact that a hole allowing air to pass through the gate that was supposed to be completely closed was the only faint hope Subaru could believe in right now.

"Still, my head is heavy. But I guess I'll just have to..."

"It was a bit strange though."

　Roswaal interrupts Subaru mid-sentence and shakes his finger. Subaru goes silent at the gesture, and Roswaal adds, "No."

"Looking at Subaru right now, it certainly seems like you're trying your best to think of how to help Emilia-sama get back on her feet… but you don't seem particularly surprised that the contract between the Great Spirit and Emilia-sama has expired. What does this mean?"

"――――"

　Subaru was silent for a moment at Roswaal's seemingly casual question.

　The reason why Subaru seemed less surprised through his eyes was because the information was already known to him. If Puck hadn't told him beforehand that he had anticipated this situation, Subaru would have been able to do nothing but watch as Emilia cried and cried.

　Although, even now, knowing that in advance wouldn't make much difference.

"You… were already aware of this situation, weren't you? The fact that the Great Spirit was leaving Lady Emilia's side. Regardless of how you found out about it."

"Even if that's the case… you have no right to say anything about it. I'm going to use all my strength to win the bet. There's no reason for you to blame me for that…"

"Nah, never mind. --Those are the words I just wanted to hear."

　Roswaal holds out his palm and nods with a look of satisfaction on his face. His attitude silences his earlier words, and Subaru sighs, feeling unsatisfied.

"Even so... if it is decided that the Great Spirit will leave Lady Emilia's side, then this is quite a troubling situation for me."

"...Is that so? In fact, it's a good thing given your goal..."

"Not at all. Certainly, I cannot bear to see Emilia-sama's spirit being broken. If it were just to fuel the fire in your heart, then that would be a suitable condition, but...if Emilia-sama loses her powers as a spirit user, that would mean that we will no longer be able to make it snow in the Sanctuary. That would be quite a blow to me."

"a..."

　What Roswaal said was inconsistent with the Gospel.

　Three days later, snow will fall in Sanctuary to lure the Great Rabbit. In order to follow the instructions written there, Roswaal needs to completely cover Sanctuary in snow.

　But then――

"Roswaal, I've been thinking for a long time..."

"Hmm? What do you want?"

"It's about the flaws in the complete version of the Gospels that you have."

"――――"

　At Subaru's words, the faint smile that had been forming on Roswaal's lips disappeared. The air became slightly dry, and his skin started to tingle with goosebumps, originating from the gaze of the demon in front of him.

　Beside him, Otto shrugged slightly, and for an instant, Subaru felt a pressure tighten around his throat. The demon's two eyes, one a different color, focused on Subaru,

"Please continue, Subaru-kun. This, the inadequacy of the Gospel… That's what I said."

　Roswaal put his arm under the pillow he was using and pulled it out, clutching a black-bound book - the Gospel. It was the same as the one Beatrice had held in the Forbidden Library, and just by its presence here, a strange sense of intimidation made the air in the room heavy.

"I… originally, there was something off about your words, which were in accordance with the Gospels. However, there were so many other things that bothered me more than that, so I had overlooked that feeling up until now. But, when I took the time to calmly think about you and the Gospels, and delved into that feeling… I realized something."

"Let's hear it, shall we?"

"The gospel that the Witch Cult possesses…it was the same with the incomplete version, but I'll leave aside the unkind descriptions for now. The problem is the crucial flaw in the gospel you possess."

"――――"

　Hearing the word "defect" Roswaal's eyebrows quirk slightly.

　The reason he remains silent despite this is probably because he is endlessly interested in the contents that Subaru is presenting. To Roswaal, the Gospel is literally like a lifeline that supports his goal.

　He has no reason not to listen when he hears about the flaws and shortcomings in it.

　Taking a small breath, Subaru's insides trembled as the pressure nearly got stuck in his throat, and he glared at Roswaal with all his might, and said.

"From what you've said, the Gospels describe the series of events that have occurred at Sanctuary this time, and the path to their resolution. In your mind, that flow goes like this: 'After Emilia fails to capture the Tomb, I will take it in her place.' In order to make Emilia fail, you will make it snow as a condition for cornering the girl, and have the Great Rabbit attack Sanctuary. In order to encourage me to prepare myself, you will drive the mansion into a corner and trim away the 'waste' from my existence. ――Is that okay?"

"That's roughly correct. So what is a defect?"

"...You probably didn't know that making it snow would result in the Great Rabbit appearing. That's why your gospel doesn't even mention the result of making it snow. It simply says 'snow will fall', and because that's what you need, you put it into action - you're a puppet of the book."

"I am aware of that. Even if that is the case, I don't mind. By following the contents of the book, I can achieve the future I desire. So why would I hesitate to be led astray by words that have no soul or form?"

　With a calm demeanor, Roswaal seemed to affirm Subaru's reasoning.

　Subaru's eyes wavered as if he couldn't understand what he was trying to say, but Subaru was convinced that his deductions up to this point had been confirmed, and that his hypothesis had become more realistic. --If, hypothetically, that was the case,

"So you and I are both real clowns."

"--law"

　As Roswaal narrows his eyes, the air in the room grows thicker. Even the temperature feels lower, perhaps because the mana in the air has lost its sense of place in the demon's quiet emotional fluctuations.

　Either way, even if it infuriates Roswaal, it is necessary to touch on the strangeness of the Gospel here, both to clear up Subaru's doubts and to make him question the state of mind of Roswaal, who is so fixated on that passage.

"Let's get back to the topic at hand. The Gospels state that 'snow will fall'. Let's assume that this is something that Emilia would normally make fall. Since Emilia can't, or won't, make it snow instead. Following the Gospel's description."

"You're repeating yourself. Hurry to your conclusion. What flaws or defects are there in the content...?"

"That means, if Emilia doesn't make it snow, and if there is no Gospel, you won't be able to make it snow either. It also means that it won't snow in the Sanctuary."

　It's a simple matter of things.

　Roswaal makes it snow because the Gospels say so. If it wasn't written in the Gospels, or if the Gospels didn't exist, there would be no reason for Roswaal to do so.

　The reason why Emilia makes it snow in the Sanctuary is unclear, based on the history recorded in the original Gospels - but if the Gospels are truly correct, then there must be some reason why Emilia has to completely cover the Sanctuary in snow. There would be no point in ignoring that "something" and just making it snow. And the original history would not exist without the Gospels.

"A prophecy that can't exist without a prophecy book - how is that even a prophecy book?"

"――――"

"No matter how unbelievable or impossible something may be, it is written in advance, which is exactly why it is a prophecy. The incomplete version possessed by the Witch Cult has been added to. So, I can understand how the text is shaped to correspond to changes in history. But what about the gospel you possess? The one that has the splendid title of being the complete version hanging from it."

"――――"

Subaru: "What's the point in adjusting the consistency of the text to make the accounts balance out after what's already been written? How can you trust that the time will be recorded exactly as written, ignoring everything else that led to this outcome? There's no way that you, a smart person like you, hadn't noticed that."

"――――"

"That's just a lack of thought on your part, Roswaal."

　Subaru asserted, pointing his finger.

　Roswaal remained silent for an extended period of time after being bombarded with these words. However, the oppressive feeling that had been enveloping the room suddenly disappeared, and it was clear to see that Otto, now freed from the pressure, was breathing quickly to allow his heart to rest.

　Roswaal closed his eyes and remained silent, as if lost in thought. His crimson lips seemed to tremble slightly, perhaps because Subaru was hoping that his words had had an effect on Roswaal.

　But I was not given the opportunity to question it.

"This is history that is premised on the existence of prophecies… the gospels. With the idea that things will move in that direction, it's only natural that the contents of the gospels would be engraved…"

"That's right. To be honest, I thought there would be a counterargument like that. --And so, I had my own counterargument prepared."

　The words were far too choppy for Roswaal, far too unlike him, and so they were blown away by Subaru's predicted voice.

　Roswaal looks at Subaru with one eye closed, his yellow pupil alone. Roswaal has done this many times before, piercing Subaru with his bewitching yellow gaze.

　So this may have been the first time that the yellow glow had shone so faintly.

　Subaru spoke, vaguely aware of this.

"Show me the Gospel you have. If I can see what is written in it, I'll be convinced by what you're saying."

"-- That's impossible. The Gospels never reveal their contents to anyone other than those who have acknowledged them as their owner. I am the owner of this Gospel. Even if you looked at it, you wouldn't be able to understand what it says, and there's even the risk of your brain being burned if anyone not approved by the book touches it..."

"You're quite talkative, Roswaal. Are you really that bothered by me seeing that book?"

　Seeing Roswaal at a loss for words, Subaru's eyes widened in surprise.

　Although his complexion could not be seen due to the white makeup he was wearing, Roswaal's reaction to Subaru's proposal was an excessive rejection.

　Seeing this sudden change in attitude, Subaru realized that his remark had hit a weaker point in Roswaal than he had imagined.

　Is Roswaal hiding something in the contents of the gospel, or in the writings within it, that must not be known? Could his stubborn adherence to the surface of the prophecy also stem from that hidden something?

　Otherwise, how could someone like Roswaal not notice the contradictions in the gospels?

"Natsuki-san, no more than this..."

　Otto, who had been observing Roswaal's attitude and Subaru trying to step in as if to attack him, reached out his hand to stop him from pursuing the matter any further.

　Subaru turned his head, trying to shake off the warning, but when he saw Otto's serious gaze looking at him, he gave up on his rash conclusion.

　Otto could see what the heated discussion between the two men could not see, and what he saw told him that it was time to end the meeting.

　Subaru didn't have the courage to go beyond that and ruin everything they had discussed up to that point.

"--Roswaal, there are three more days. Tomorrow, the day after. And the final day. I will put an end to everything by then. You, think about what I have said."

"Maybe you owe me a favor? You should be grateful to your friend, Otto. He's helped me see the turning point that was bad for both you and me."

　With his expression blank, Roswaal hides the Gospel behind his back again, then shrugs and leaves for the exit of the room, as he gives one final word to Subaru and the others.

"I will now begin to work out a formula for controlling the weather, so that the accounts in the Gospels become the official history. That will be my guide."

"Do as you like. If you continue to cling to me so stubbornly, then there's nothing I can do."

　With his hand on the doorknob, Subaru turns his whole body around and faces Roswaal.

　I met the demon's gaze head on with my own,

"Once this is all settled, I will splash ink all over your gospel and paint it black. Only then will you be able to see the world with your own eyes."

※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※

　--After parting ways with Otto after a difficult discussion with Roswaal that was difficult to judge as to whether it was meaningful or not, Subaru visited Emilia's room.

"--Balus, you've come."

"Ah, here you are. Sorry for leaving you to your own devices for so long."

　Seeing Subaru arrive, Ram, who had been watching Emilia from inside the room, made a bored expression. Her expressionless face was just like her usual self, with no sense of warmth, but in the darkness her profile looked somewhat tense, and Subaru must have been mistaken.

"My discussion with Roswaal is over. I'll look after Emilia, so you can leave here."

　Without mentioning this, Subaru pulled out a chair and moved to a position where he could see Emilia just like Ram. As Subaru sat next to her, Ram gave him a sidelong glance and then said quietly,

"I'm worried that Barusu might do something naughty to the sleeping Lady Emilia."

"I don't want to believe that your credibility is so low that you would be suspected of doing something so shameless in this situation."

"It will also lower your credibility. You have raised the flag of rebellion against your master, Roswaal-sama, and are now in a position of opposition within this narrow 'Sanctuary'."

"..."

　Naturally, Ram also seemed to know the details of the contract between Subaru and Roswaal - the bet.

　Ram is so loyal to Roswaal that she is willing to devote herself to him until the very end. To Roswaal, she is the only one he can use without question to ensure the contents of the Gospel.

"What do you think?"

"――――"

　Ram didn't reply to the question without a subject. However, she now turned her body towards Subaru, who had been facing her in profile until then, and waited from the front for him to continue.

　Seeing that attitude, Subaru tried to sort out his pent up emotions and carefully chose his words,

"I don't know how much you know about the contents of the Gospel. But if Roswaal follows what's in the book, the Sanctuary will be in chaos. I wonder if Garfiel, Lewes, and everyone else will be safe..."

Subaru: "If you are trying to use that as an excuse to persuade Ram, that would be foolish, Barus."

　Subaru tried to speak again, but Ram's harsh words cut him off. She reflected Subaru in her pale crimson eyes, piercing him with an unwavering light.

"There is only one thing that Ram places above all else. That will never waver. Nothing else can ever cause that position to waver. So you can't expect those words to change Ram's mind."

"..."

"Besides---I've already left Ram's problem to him."

　Ram spoke up as Subaru began to regret his decision, thinking that he had chosen the wrong words. Subaru looked up at her words, and was about to question her on the matter, but Ram stood up from her seat before him.

　Shaking her knees, Ram took one last look at Emilia's sleeping face, then turned back to Subaru,

"I'll leave Lady Emilia to you. I'll come back to look after her in the morning."

"Ah, yeah... I get it. And what about that word you just said..."

"Well, I wonder."

　The way he answered revealed his lack of intention to answer.

　With those words, Ram left the room without any regrets. Subaru was about to say something to her, but nothing came to mind and he could only watch her go.

　The door to the room closed, leaving only Subaru and Emilia inside.

　With Emilia still asleep in his bed, all Subaru could do was continue to watch over her sleeping face.

　Ten hours had passed since he'd held the confused, crying Emilia in his arms and watched her lose consciousness—the only thing that saved him was that the expression on Emilia's face as she slept was not one of nightmares.

　If the past was tormenting her even in her dreams, then she truly had no place to find peace of mind.

　Even if she were to wake up, what awaits Emilia is the reality that her bond with Puck has been severed. How long will it take for her to come to terms with that?

　Subaru didn't know how much his presence could ease that pain. There was no doubt that he strongly wanted to help, but to what extent?

"...Right."

"--a?"

　Suddenly, Subaru's mind, which had been submerged in a sea of ​​thoughts, reacted to a faint call.

　Looking up, he saw Emilia in bed, her head tilted slightly, her slightly open amethyst eyes gazing at Subaru. --She had woken up.

"Oh, so you're here... Emilia, are you okay?"

"ーーSubaru."

"Ah, it's me. Are you okay? Just sleep... wait a moment, I'll go get some water."

"It's okay."

　Subaru stood up and was about to run outside when Emilia called out to him.

　Subaru was surprised by the unexpectedly strong words, and in his sudden movement, he dropped back down onto the chair.

"...Emilia?"

"It's okay. It's fine...just stay here."

　Subaru lowered his voice, but Emilia responded firmly.

　After the events of the past few days, he knew that Emilia seemed to have low blood pressure and was weak in the mornings. It was not uncommon for Emilia to be sluggish when she first woke up, and now, having woken up from a long sleep, should have been no exception - but in Emilia's amethyst eyes, there was not the slightest sign that her consciousness was still in that long period of dormancy.

"Do you understand the situation?"

"...Yeah. I overslept the whole day today. I'm already making everyone wait, what am I doing...I'm sorry."

"What the heck! No one is blaming you for that. Anyway, the problem is..."

　As Emilia apologizes, Subaru wonders whether to bring up Puck. It's the topic he thought would come up first once he wakes up and understands the situation. But he puts it off and his concern for those around him takes shape. Surely, he's so shocked that he's lost sight of the fact that his contract with Puck has been severed――

"Don't worry, Subaru."

"up...?"

"I haven't forgotten that Puck disappeared. I remember it clearly. I didn't forget and run away."

"Is that so...?"

"yeah..."

　Receiving a brief nod, Subaru realised that Emilia had not forgotten this fact. But if that was the case, then how could Emilia remain so calm?

　To Subaru, who had seen Emilia just after he'd found out that Puck had disappeared, Emilia's calmness now seemed unreal.

　However, seeing Subaru unable to accept the situation so easily, Emilia,

"I'm sorry, Subaru. I showed you a lot of my weaknesses… I must have worried you a lot."

"No, you can worry as much as you want. I don't care about that sort of thing. I don't care, but... rather, right now, you're the one..."

"---Lots, you see. There were things to think about. I could do them. In my dreams."

　With a quiet voice, Emilia interrupted Subaru's turmoil. Subaru held his breath as he stared at her, eyes cast down. Her long eyelashes trembling, Emilia turned her eyes towards Subaru once more,

"I want to believe that everything will be okay by morning… Subaru, please."

"...Y-yes."

"Hold my hand. Will you stay here until morning? Then I'm sure..."

　Emilia's pale fingertips reach out timidly from under the towel blanket.

　Seeing the outstretched hand, Subaru didn't hesitate to take it in his own hand. He wrapped his thin, delicate fingers tightly around it,

"If that's all you need, then it's no problem. But, Emilia…"

"I'm sorry, Subaru. I'm sure there's a lot you want to talk about and ask me. But… please wait until morning. Then I'll be able to do my best."

"――――"

"So stay like this until morning - Subaru."

　Subaru didn't say anything more after hearing Emilia's pleading voice.

　However, Subaru moved his chair even closer to the bed, and took Emilia's hand, bringing it to her bedside. As she looked at him with trembling eyes, he nodded,

"Okay. Let's do that, Emilia."

"Hmm...Thanks."

　After exchanging only a few words, Emilia's eyes close again.

　Unlike the loss of consciousness she had been experiencing since morning, this time she was resting her wings of her own volition in a slumber. What words will she weave when she wakes up?

　Emilia had demonstrated that she had overcome the worst-case scenario with her own strength. Feeling relieved by this, Subaru watched over her sleeping face.

"...Because I believe in you."

　Suddenly, he heard Emilia mutter in her sleep, and Subaru let out a sigh.

　When morning comes, things start moving again.

　The big day was just a few hours away.

　and--.

※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※

"How did your discussion with Barusu go?"

"I guess you could call it a draw. For both me and him, it was a back-and-forth situation. From the start, it was one we wanted to avoid getting too involved in."

　In a dark room, master and servant were speaking to each other, standing closer than necessary.

　Roswaal pulls Ram close to him at the side of the bed and rests her head on his chest as he thinks back on their earlier discussion.

　In fact, it is no easy task to shake the resolve of a determined Subaru. Though he has yet to decide on a clear vision for the future, one can sense a steely resolve at his core.

　Otto's presence next to him was also a blow to Roswaal. Otto objectively grasped the situation and took the reins on Subaru when it was most effective, and he played the role of a balancer, ensuring that the discussion did not fall apart and that neither Subaru nor Roswaal went too far.

　Perhaps, without him, Roswaal might have been able to twist Subaru's thoughts with his sharp tongue.

"I've only ever seen him as an audience member who never made it onto the stage… but he's quite the talented guy. Subaru-kun, you've got some great friends."

"…If they're in the way, Ram, can you do something about it?"

"I'll give up. If I was going to make that decision, I should have done it at the discussion we had earlier. If I hadn't done so, then I would no longer have had any justification for making that choice. Anyway... what was the request you made?"

　Closing one eye, Roswaal looked down at Ram with his yellow pupils. In her arms, held by her Master, Ram shook her pink head and looked up at his face from within his chest,

"It went smoothly and was delivered just as you wished, Lord Roswaal."

"I see. I was thinking that if the timing was right... but now, I wonder what will happen."

　Roswaal nodded in satisfaction at Ram's nod and stroked the girl's head with his free hand. Ram accepted the gesture with a dreamy, ecstatic look on her face.

　Roswaal looked at the girl in his arms, who adored him, for a moment with pity.

"I hope you don't take it personally, Subaru. I promised you I wouldn't lay hands on you directly. But… I hope you'll at least forgive me for playing around with these schemes from my bed."

"――――"

"Well, I wonder what will come out."

　A faint smile of joy graced the corners of Roswaal's mouth.

"If you found out that a girl with a clean freakish nature had actually been listening to that evil-filled conversation just now… I wonder what kind of look you'd make, Subaru-kun."

※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※※ ※

　--It was a dark room.

　The lights are turned off and darkness falls into the room, filling it with the sound of dusk and the footsteps of dreams until morning arrives outside the window.

　The door was closed, the room was isolated from the outside world, and silence reigned supreme.

　In the center of the room, in the darkness, there was a bed, and a girl was lying on it with her eyes closed.

　It was so silent that not even breathing could be heard -- but suddenly, a sound broke the silence.

　it is,

"...Liar."

　The voice muttered was husky and weak.

　A very modest complaint of resentment uttered by the girl lying on the bed.

"Subaru, you liar."

　The whispering repeated once again.

　Left alone in her room, clenching her free hand tightly, Emilia denounces the lies of the boy who has disappeared.

　--There were only a few hours left until the big morning arrived.