Re: ChildHood Friend…Again Chapter 32: Opposite friends

Picoutatte. One of the five largest cities in the entire Kingdom of Lugunica. Located right on the border between it and the Vollachia Empire.

Probably the place with the highest economic movement in the entire Kingdom. Both due to all its ruthless merchants when negotiating, and for being the vital seller when making exchanges with Vollachia.

It is one of the most abundant commercial cities of all, distributed in its 5 districts uniformly and efficiently.

If you want to get an expensive object that you know is for sale, you'll get it here without a doubt.

Jewels. Dresses. Armor. Tools. Items. Everything you can buy here, you'll find.

How could anyone even live here without being excited day after day?

"…"

Unless… you are Otto…

"…"

He was just a boy, barely 5 years old. Just a quiet boy. Reserved. Withdrawn and silent.

…Very silent.

In fact, there were only 3 types of sounds that had ever come from his lips:

Sound of pain. When he fell or hurt himself slightly.

Sound of murmurs. An involuntary sound he made while eating or sleeping.

And the sound of crying when he wept uncontrollably… And he had only cried once in his life. When he was born.

In general, Otto was… an empty and emotionless boy. Unable to understand the voices of humans and much less the thousands of voices he heard around him.

Since his life began, for normal people, they might consider it a hell.

A hell of emptiness.

That was due to the Blessing that seemed to have become a Curse for him.

The Divine Protection of Soul Language.

Ironically… until now, he had not understood any type of communication. Not with humans. Not with animals. Not with anyone.

Without being able to understand others, he could not comprehend any type of feeling or emotion coming from them.

He couldn't even understand his own.

He saw children playing. But he did not understand or join them.

He saw his siblings talking. But he did not understand or join them.

He saw the world moving forward… but he just stayed behind.

And sincerely… He couldn't know if he hated it or loved it… He was incapable of feeling anything…

"…"

"…Hey."

And for that very reason…

"…"

"Mmm… Still no reaction, huh?"

"…"

"Mmm… You're a reserved person, I understand… Then I just have to try harder to get a reaction out of you!"

"…"

"That's the spirit!"

And for that very reason, a certain black-haired boy was trying harder than ever to get even a smile out of him.

"…"

Otto… watched him, as he just made silly poses. Funny faces. Bad jokes and more.

How was he supposed to have gotten into that situation?

He was just outside trying to use the pen in his notebook, trying to write something.

It was something his older brother, Oslo, had given him the day before. And he wanted to dedicate his time to that.

So he had gone out, thinking that being alone and outside his home might help him write something.

And then, out of nowhere. A boy, perhaps up to 4 years older than him, approached and greeted him in a dramatic way.

Pointing upwards and striking a strange pose, declaring that he would be his new best friend.

"…"

If he were a normal person, Otto would be confused and disconcerted.

But being unable to recognize emotions correctly… He just stays still and watches silently. Seeing what he does.

"Mmm… You're really hard to talk to, huh? You remind me a bit of Nee-sama when I met her… Although she no longer…… I mean, you're a really difficult person! But even she grew fond of me. You won't be the exception!"

Subaru sits right beside him. In a close and confident manner. That was something that never changed about him.

And he fixes his gaze on the small notebook he has in his hands.

"Mmm? Are you trying to draw?"

"…"

Even though he produced no sound, Subaru intuited that Otto was trying to say the word "no."

The fact that he couldn't speak doesn't mean he couldn't understand him. He was a very observant person and easy to read others.

"No?… Mmm… So, are you trying to write?"

"…"

"I see. I see… Well. Then I'll help you. You're talking to a language expert!"

"…"

"Hey, don't look at me like that. I'm serious! I have perfectly mastered English, Spanish, Japanese, the language of this world, and even the weird writing of a black book. No one beats me!"

"…"

The truth was that Otto's expression hadn't changed one bit… And yet… Subaru could feel his thoughts and emotions… Otto was an ordinary boy. Subaru knew what was behind them.

Reading the imperceptible gestures and reactions… he could see that he was a boy who wanted to understand and be better to return the affection to his parents. To give back all the effort they had spent on someone like him.

He knew that Otto wanted to reward all the care he had received from the people who loved him…

…Or maybe it was Subaru being Subaru. Who knows.

The point is, Subaru is going to encourage him.

"I'll teach you the normal language of this world… I hope I can replicate Betty's lessons."

He holds the hand where Otto has the pen… and directs it towards the paper.

"Mmm… Let's start with…… Let's see… your name… Yes! You know your name, right?"

"…"

And he manages to feel a slight force that guides the pen onto the page.

Maybe it's slow, weak, clumsy, and trembling… But it was the genuine effort of someone.

Subaru would never be able to mock that.

"…That's it."

After several minutes, there were two words on the small white paper:

Otto Suwen.

"That's your name…"

"…"

"Good… Now I can talk to you, even if it's just a little like this… so… Otto… Do you want to be my friend?"

"…"

Subaru didn't need Otto to speak to know the answer to that.

The slight nod he gave him was more than enough.

After all… This was only the beginning of a new friendship.

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"...Natsuki-san…"

"Whoa! Otto! You've grown a bit, haven't you?"

On another day, months after their first meeting, this was the second time they saw each other.

Although, in fact, for Subaru that time hadn't really been that long.

Otto was able to write something with Subaru's help in his notebook on the first day they met… That was the best they could have done.

When he got home, the first thing he did was show the notebook to his older brother. Who read the written words… and understood his brother completely.

After that, his family became much more active in Otto's education. With this new discovery, they now knew what they had to do so their dear son/brother could speak and be a child like others.

Finally, they knew how to give Otto the education he deserved correctly.

And although it was a slow process… Otto slowly learned human language.

And he was able to thank his parents and his siblings for everything, having cried for the second time in his life and finally obtaining an understanding of his emotions.

Otto had improved, matured, and grown in all that time…

Though… he still had something pending to do.

"...Where have you been? I wanted to introduce you to my family."

"Oh! Really?… Mmmm… I guess I did take a while to visit you for some reason… Hehe. Sorry. It wasn't under my control."

Smiling while scratching his head with his right hand, Subaru said somewhat shyly.

He had visited Otto a bit at the beginning. A few times. But it seemed that now he had made a jump of several months from this point of view.

Otto had grown a few cm. It was noticeable that some time had passed, or that his 6th birthday was about to happen soon.

Meanwhile, Subaru, seemed like only a few weeks had passed since his last visit.

"Wellll… I can't really promise anything. But I want you to know I want to be by your side as a friend."

"Really?… Hehe. Thank you."

Otto had grown in more than one sense. He could now speak and play with other boys his age.

And although that was the case, he didn't really have a true friend. At least not one he could consider his best friend.

They were just acquaintances to chat and play with. Fun, pleasant, but little more.

Subaru was truly the only person he had confidence in outside his family. Even though he didn't see him that often.

So knowing he counted on him as a friend was something that made him very happy.

"And well… What have you done during this time? I've been visiting other friends."

"Actually, not much… Most of the time I stay at home with my brothers and my parents teaching me to write."

"Ohh!? So you did like my lessons!? Haha. I'm glad I helped you."

The truth was that Otto learned to write, read, and speak in a much slower way than others.

For now, he can speak relatively fluently. He had no problem having a conversation with someone.

But writing and reading was something totally different.

He had to make an effort to write legibly, and to read in an understandable way. That's why his main hobby was studying at home, with his family's help.

He made progress. Slow. But there was progress.

And besides, it was something Subaru could help with, so it was a good way to spend time together.

"Mmm… I should bring an alphabet from this world if I want to help you in a better way."

Subaru had already printed some blueprints for a certain violet-haired girl in the past.

He could do exactly the same with Otto. He could give him an alphabet, a list of verbs, and who knows how many more things to teach him to write and read.

Of course. In his world, he wouldn't have the alphabet of this one already made.

But that doesn't matter. Subaru wouldn't have a problem spending a few hours of sleep to create his own alphabet and word list by hand if it meant helping his friend.

It wasn't even close to the worst thing he had done to help someone.

"Well… Anyway, that will be later… Let's just write a few sentences together, okay?"

"Yes. That will be enough, Natsuki-san."

"...Natsuki-san?… It's not that it bothers me, but you don't need to be so formal, you know."

He said while sitting next to him and starting to write a bit, while continuing to talk.

"I'm used to my friends calling me just Subaru… and even nicknames like Barusu."

"...Are you sure she's a friend?"

"Heh. Of course! She was a great friend!… So you don't have to be so respectful."

"...Thank you… But I'm used to that. So I'll keep calling you that, Natsuki-san."

He responded, while also writing alongside Subaru's letters. Trying to imitate him to improve his writing.

"Mmm… Well, if that's what you want… But don't expect me to treat you the same. I'll just call you Otto."

"...You could use Suwen-san… or Otto-san if you prefer."

"Just Otto sounds good!"

"But that's… Argh. I guess it's okay."

"See!?"

Teasing him a little, Subaru finishes writing in the book.

"Look! Here it says 'Strange'… Like the two of us!"

"...Is that really the best word you think of to describe us?"

"Well. I'm a boy from another world. And you're a boy who's just learning to write. I say we are strange…"

Otto blinks… as if he had just heard something unreal.

"Wait… What… That you come from-?"

"Eh?"

"Otttooooo!"

In the distance, the voice of a boy even younger than the gray-haired boy is heard.

"Regin?"

"Ah! There you are! You were taking too long!"

Regin Suwen. His younger brother by only a few years.

"Mom says she finished cooking lunch. Oslo is helping her serve it, so they sent me to look for you."

"Ah, I see… Thanks, Regin. I hadn't realized it was so late. I think I got carried away talking with my friend, Hehe."

"Friend?"

Regin reflects an expression of confusion.

"...Otto?"

"Yes?"

"Who are you talking about?"

"Eh? But what are you saying? I mean…"

The moment he turns around… is when he realizes.

There's no one beside him.

"...Eh?"

"...Otto… Do you have imaginary friends?"

"Eh!? No! No! I swear he was here!"

Regin… smiles. A bit mockingly while seeing a funny side of his older brother.

"...Hehe… Don't worry, there's nothing wrong with having a childish side. It's cute."

"I'm older than you! And I don't have any imaginary friends! He's real!"

"Okay, okay. Sure, of course… I want to hear more about him, but we have to go eat. So come on! Hurry up!"

"But he is-…!"

Otto wants to counterattack… But he looks around without seeing any sign of his friend there.

"...I'm not crazy, right?"

"Right?"

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On another day…

"…"

There is a slight, heavy tension in the air… something that would make anyone there uncomfortable…

"… Hey. You’ve been staring at me for a while, are you angry?"

Although Subaru speaks casually without really taking it so seriously.

"Well, yes! Do you have any idea how much my younger brother mocked me!?"

"Eh? And what does that have to do with me!?"

"You ask!? Where the hell did you go!? Did you leave me talking alone!?"

"Ahhhhhh, you mean that? Hehe. I can’t help it, you know? I just had to visit another friend."

"… And just at that moment when my brother arrived?"

Otto asks with a touch of frustration and irritation.

Subaru just responds somewhat shyly, but not really scared or sad about the situation.

"Come on. I didn't do it on purpose… To make you believe me, you can take me to your house. I wouldn’t have a problem becoming friends with your family too."

"… Really?"

"Really."

"Really really?"

"Really!"

With that confirmation… Otto relaxes a bit.

"… Alright… It’s a few minutes' walk. Follow me."

"Oki Doki."

And so, both friends head to Otto’s house. Hoping to prove Subaru’s existence.

"… Ngh…"

Although on the way… Otto seems to suffer a bit.

"Hey… Are you okay?"

Subaru shows his genuine concern.

Even if he teased him whenever he could, it doesn’t mean he doesn’t genuinely care about him.

He wanted to know what was bothering him.

"Ngh… Don’t worry, I’m fine… It’s just my Divine Protection."

"Oh!? You have one too?"

Although upon seeing it wasn't something really so bad, he becomes cheerful again.

"… Too? You have one?"

"Nope. But I know a friend who has like 30 of those. It’s really cool."

"… That sounds unreal. I can’t believe you."

"Well, I couldn’t believe someone like you had something like that either."

"Hey! What was the need to say it like that?… Besides, what do you mean?"

"Well… The people I’ve met with Divine Protections are usually people, in my opinion, truly amazing.You… are… you. Though you can take pride in that."

"Wow. That’s the most insulting compliment I’ve ever received in my life."

Otto thought.

"Anyway… And what is your Divine Protection?"

"… I haven’t fully mastered it yet… But it’s called The Divine Protection of Soul Language."

Those words surprise Subaru. It sounds like… something really cool. He expected it to be something simpler coming from Otto, to be honest.

"Mmm… So what, do you read what’s inside my soul or something?"

"What? No… It’s like… understanding all kinds of language."

"Oh! So it’s like talking to animals!?"

"Uhh… I guess you could see it that way."

Actually, that’s not exactly how it works. But it was a good way to summarize and explain it in a few words.

"That’s even better!!"

Subaru gets excited. That was a power he only saw in cartoons. Even though he has lived more impressive things, stuff like this made him tremble with excitement.

"So you can talk to animals? Like in series, anime, movies and stuff? That's awesome!… Uyy! I wish I could bring Patrasche here…"

"Patrasche?"

Otto is confused by the unknown name.

"Oh yes. She’s a ground dragon I met a while ago… I haven’t seen her in a while. Though I still consider her my pet."

"… I see… Seems you get along well with animals too, huh?"

Otto can’t help but smile at his friend’s words and attitude.

"Though I must say I can only understand a few words so far… I still haven’t managed to understand them completely."

"Only a few words?… I guess that’s normal, considering you just learned human language not long ago… Still, you’re amazing!"

"Hehe…"

And he can’t help… getting shy when praised like that.

"Mmm? Are you blushing? You really are easy and cute, aren’t you?"

"Ngh- Shut up!… It’s just that you act with too much confidence, you know!?"

"That’s me! You should learn from me. Even a beast-boy says that only makes me cooler!"

"And how many friends are you supposed to have?"

"Too many to count, to be honest. But I don’t forget any of them. You can never have too many friends!"

"… And here I thought I was lucky to have even one friend…"

Otto… makes a subtle jab.

"… Did you just say something really cheesy about me?"

"Not at all…"

Although he denies it immediately.

"Hehe… Oh, Otto!"

"H-Hey!"

Subaru hugs Otto over the shoulder and pulls him to his side. Similar to how he did with beast-boy friends.

"Hehe. You really are a small, childish boy, aren’t you? It’s really cute."

"Don’t tease me, Natsuki-san!"

Making Otto blush even more. Trying to break free.

But Subaru was older than him by several years. He had no way of overcoming him in strength.

So he had no choice but to endure all his teasing.

"… Woof."

"… Uh?"

The two stand still for a few seconds upon hearing the sound of barking nearby.

And when they look… they can see a small puppy behind them.

"Woof! Woof!"

Who seems to bark happily at the duo.

"… Do you know him, Otto?"

"No… Not really."

Otto had seen various animals. But he wasn’t really friends with a specific one. So he didn’t remember anything really clear about this one in particular.

Subaru kneels on his right leg, and extends the palm of his hand. Seeking the small animal’s approval.

"Mmm… Hello Puppy. Do you want to be my friend?"

"Woof!"

"Hehe… How cute."

He proceeds to pet the small canine, giving it light tickles on its belly.

"Mhm… Alright. I’ll be your friend too."

And just like that. Another friend is added to the list.

"… Do you really make friends that easily?"

Otto wasn’t so sure what to believe about each of Subaru’s friends. Much less because of the way they met.

"Making friends is very easy Otto. You should try to talk more, I think many people would enjoy being with you. Even if just for your nervous reactions."

"Was it necessary to say that?"

"Totally."

Subaru holds the puppy in the safest and most affectionate way possible, while continuing to walk beside his friend.

"Mmm… I haven’t done this since I carried Patrasche in my arms… it reminds me of her."

"… Though I’m sure. You get along very well with animals, don’t you, Natsuki-san?"

"Nghh… I’m not sure if that’s the best way to put it… I think I get along with anyone who gives me the chance to talk to them. And animals never deny you that chance…"

"… You really are a weird boy… Although… you can take that as a compliment."

"Hehe. Thank you, Otto. You’re weird too."

"… Though I wish you’d improve your words when trying to say something good about me… But thank you, I guess."

They walk in silence for a few more seconds…

Until Subaru slows his pace a bit.

"Uaaahhhhh… This is bad… I’m getting very sleepy…"

"Hey, don’t fall asleep. We’re almost there."

"But it’s not… uaahhhhh… Something I can avoid…"

"Don’t exaggerate… Look, it’s just to the right of this street."

Otto walks a bit faster, enough for Subaru to follow closely.

Taking a few steps forward. Otto knocks on the main door, and waits for one of his family members to open it.

Which happens not long after.

"Mmm? Ah, son."

"Hi, Mom. I’m back."

Otto gives a smile that reflects his affection for his mother. And pride for finally proving…

"I see… Oh, and that is…?"

Finally proving that he was right that he didn’t have an imaginary friend, but a real one.

"Yes! He’s the one I was telling you about, see? He’s real. He’s my best friend Subaru!"

"… I… see… Nice to meet you… I guess."

She responds with a bit of… disappointment.

"Eh? Why do you say that tone? Come on Subaru, say hello your-"

The moment he looks to his side… there is only a small puppy sitting on the ground.

"… Woof!"

Who barks greeting the lady in front of him.

"…"

"… So… was he the one who helped you write and… who you spend your time talking with, son?"

"Eh? No, No! It’s not like that. He’s human! He was the one who brought this puppy here! He’s friends with someone with over 30 Divine Protections! And who calls me weird! And and…"

"…"

Though she didn’t mean it… Otto could perceive a bit of pity from his mother.

"Alright… Sure… Ehh, you can come in and bring your… puppy friend with you, son… You can go to bed early today if you want…"

"But I… yes, Mom."

"… Subaru is real… He’s real! He’s real!!! I swear!!!"

Otto was falling into madness.

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"Ugh... This doesn't seem like it's going to stop soon."

"So... are we locked in?"

Weeks later. Another visit.

Although this time, it was interrupted just minutes after meeting. All because of a single event that is unalterable in whatever world you're in.

"Yes... Good thing the animals told you about this rain. If not, we would be completely soaked."

Time had passed, and Otto kept growing. With the help (insistence) of Subaru, he had already learned to talk with the animals more naturally.

They practiced that to minimize the damage Otto received from overusing his divine protection.

They had reached a very acceptable level for what he had tried so far. Otto said he could now have a clear conversation for a few minutes with some of the animals close to him.

When Subaru asked him to show it, he tested it with some of the insects nearby.

Who told them a storm was approaching.

Given this information, the two of them didn't hesitate to run and find a place to take shelter. And in the end, they found an empty shed nearby.

And just in time. Because, shortly after they entered, indeed, it started pouring rain. Sounding louder and louder against the ground. Even with the doors closed, you could hear the noise from outside.

So now they find themselves locked in that place.

"... Can't you ask the animals when it will stop?"

"Most of them also took shelter underground to protect themselves... and seeing the shape of the clouds and the sound of the thunder... I doubt this will end now."

Otto lies down on the wooden floor, leaning against the wall. Relaxing.

"I doubt we can get out of here for a good while... I think we should make ourselves comfortable."

"... If there's no other choice... I guess it's okay. It's not like I can do anything else."

Subaru and his optimism remained intact, as he looked at his friend and also leaned against the wall.

"... Hey."

"Yes, Otto?"

Subaru raises an eyebrow.

"... You left me talking alone with my mother."

"Oh, really? I don't remember that."

"Well, no! Because you left me alone talking with my mother!"

Otto gets up comically frustrated, raising his voice suddenly. He feels Subaru was making fun of him again... And the worst part is that he couldn't help but react comically even if he tried.

Although annoying him wasn't Subaru's intention, he had to admit that Otto's reactions were very funny to let pass.

He would keep teasing him. Nothing personal that would truly hurt him. He just wanted to bother him a little. A joke between friends...

"... Maybe I got a little influenced by Nee-sama."

He couldn't help but make a slight smile because of it.

Ignoring those thoughts, he reconnects with Otto, looking at him directly.

"I already told you, didn't I? I have to visit some friends."

"But you can't stand me up like that! I'm starting to get looks of pity from my parents and the other children! My reputation is falling!"

"... Reputation?... Did you even have one before you met me?"

"Natsuki-san!"

"Hahahaha. It was a joke, it was a joke."

"Nghhh..."

"..."

Silence falls.

Not really heavy... the truth was that Otto wasn't angry with Subaru.

He was very VERY frustrated. But angry? No. He couldn't think of a situation where he truly hated him.

Although he couldn't help but wish he had at least a little more respect.

"..."

Meanwhile Subaru... is pensive.

He was a person who acted more on instinct. He didn't consider himself smart. Just a bit insightful...

And on top of that... lately he had been in much contact with his emotions... And he believes that... he needs help about that.

So, still with slight doubt...

"... Hey, Otto."

He dares to ask.

"Yes?"

"... What do you think of me?"

"Huh?"

Otto can't help but stay a bit perplexed for a few seconds. Clearly looking surprised by the question and his friend's tone.

"... Why that question?"

A few more seconds of silence pass before Subaru answers again.

"Well... Lately I've been trying to think more objectively about myself... So far I've only asked two girl friends and they've given me answers... different from what I expected."

He says with a small smile... but pure and genuine.

"... They must be good friends."

Otto can't help but say and think that when he sees Subaru's face of comfort when talking about them.

"They sure are. One is my personal playmate and the other calls me her jester."

And quickly that thought gets altered.

"... Don't you have any normal friends?"

"... You?"

"..."

"..."

"... I can't deny it... But you really should consider your friendships..."

Otto simply sighs when he knows continuing that discussion is pointless.

So he just waits for Subaru to keep talking...

"... The point is that... those two... Both described me in a way that... I didn't expect... Ngh. Forget it. Just answer the question... What do you think of me?"

Otto has to take a few seconds to think.

Both to have the perfect words to say, and to be sure if it's what he wants to say.

"... Do you want me to be honest?"

"Harshly honest."

"If you're not honest, this will be useless."

It's one of the few times Subaru looked really serious about a topic.

"... Fine..."

Otto stands up, looking at Subaru. And he raises his right palm... and starts counting.

"The truth is... You're a restless boy, hyperactive, annoying..."

"Ugh... Yeah, I guess-"

"Loud, mischievous, noisy."

For every word that comes out, Otto frowns more. His tone rises, and shows more and more harshness.

"H-Hey... Eh, I know it's true, but I expected that...-"

"Someone who makes fun of me. Who stands me up. A super weird boy. Persistent, and above all, IRRITATINGLY ENERGETIC."

"..."

Subaru... can't deny that everything Otto said is nothing more and nothing less than... the pure truth...

To be honest, he would deserve him saying those words to his face.

Although knowing that's all he thinks he is... he can't help but lower his head.

"... I guess... I am-"

"Phew!... I got that off my chest."

"Huh?"

And as soon as he raises it again... He can see a much more relaxed and happy Otto. Very much in contrast with the Otto who was yelling at him seconds before.

"I was saving all that waiting for the chance to tell you, you know?... and now that I told you... Ahhh, I feel much better..."

"... I guess you've never answered me like that before..."

"... Honestly... it even scared me a little... Not to the level of my mother, of course."

But still, some fear.

"... Now then... I can move on to the second half."

"Huh?"

Otto raises his other hand and starts counting.

"... You are a kind boy. Observant. Honest. Smiling. Ingenious... Someone impossible to hate."

And he starts saying the things he likes about him.

Instinctively, he closes his eyes... remembering the moment they met.

"You are irritatingly energetic... But you always decide to use that energy to cheer up and help others. No matter if it takes extra effort from you... Although sometimes it gets annoying, I really consider you the most pleasant person there is... You truly are a great friend, Natsuki-san."

Once he finishes speaking, he lowers his arm... And when he opens his eyes.

He can see Subaru's face... Blushing... totally red with embarrassment.

"... Pfft. What? I thought you were impossible to blush."

And Otto simply can't help but use this single opportunity to return some of his teasing.

"S-Shut up!... I'm just used to my mother and my Nee-san talking to me like that!"

Subaru was dying of embarrassment... He didn't expect those words to have such an effect on him.

"Hehe... I think I already understand what's fun about teasing your friend."

Otto was satisfied with Subaru's reaction, who...

"... Hey, Otto."

"Yes?"

"... I also think you are a truly pleasant and amazing friend..."

"... Thank you, Natsuki-san... You are amazing too."

"... I am amazing..."

Subaru can't help but smile upon seeing there is more than one person who believes that.

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Present

"And in the end... When the rain stopped, my parents came looking for us... And when I wanted to introduce them to you... You had disappeared. Another. Damn. Time."

"... I... Uhhh... Sorry?"

Once back in the present, our trio was on their way to the mansion. In the middle of Lifaus Highway.

Otto and Subaru were in the carriage on the left. Which was being pulled by the merchant's earth dragon, Frufroo.

And on the right. Rem was leading the reins of her own carriage. Which was being pulled by none other than Patrasche.

They had left minutes after finishing their meal at that restaurant.

During all that time, Otto had been telling him all about his childhood and the time he had spent with Subaru, to him and Rem. Both listening with total attention.

And Subaru feels... divided.

Between happy to be considered a good friend... and embarrassed by all the things he has put Otto through.

"... I finally meet a normal friend... And it turns out I've been annoying him my whole life?"

The truth was he expected a story where, even if he hadn't helped much, he would still be a friend who always tried to cheer him up.

Knowing their relationship was based on annoying him... leaves a slight bad taste in his mouth...

"You have no idea of the discomfort in my house after everyone thought I had an imaginary friend... And the worst part is you did and said such dumb things that even I was starting to consider that possibility! Argh! OD!"

"... I'm glad that Otto and Subaru-kun are truly good friends."

"Huh?" (x2)

Both are surprised by Rem's voice. Who looks at them both with a smile as she leads the way.

"Subaru-kun and you, Sir Otto. By the way you told it, I can tell you had mutual trust and support. No matter how many jokes were in between, it was clear it was a genuine friendship."

And she says without any doubt about it. Making Otto smile the same way.

"... I would truly love if there weren't so many jokes but... But yes. I guess so. As I said, Natsuki-san was the best and worst friend I could have had at that time."

Otto was totally sure of that.

"... I guess I wasn't that bad."

Making Subaru... well. Feel a little less guilty with himself.

"... Although... I only appeared a few times a month?"

Though he still has some doubts.

"Yes... Just a few visits every now and then. It wasn't really consistent, to be honest... That only made me doubt my own sanity more."

"... It's hard to see a relationship between summoning time and the interval between each one with everyone."

Subaru was no longer so sure his summonings had any fixed pattern.

A specific time he stayed.

A visiting interval between each span.

... Although... at least he could know the order of each one.

If he told Otto there was someone who called him a jester... He knew he started visiting him around the same time as a certain Princess of the sun.

So he should be... about 9 years old back then? More or less the same age he met Felix?...

... He should seriously sit down and make a map of all his friends.

But that will be a task for later.

"... After that? Did I stop visiting you?"

"I was going crazy not knowing if you really visited me or if you were just a hallucination of my brain... And when you stopped I didn't know whether to feel happy or sad about my own madness..."

"Anyway, it's not like the nicknames and everyone's looks ever disappeared."

Otto thought with resignation. While continuing to tell part of his life.

"... It wasn't immediately after that, but several more situations happened in my home... and in the end I was exiled from my homeland."

"Exiled?"

"What happened to you, Sir Otto?"

The concern of both spikes upon hearing that something had happened to this good man.

"I don't want to go into details... But in short, I got into a conflict with one of the daughters of the nobles in my city... My father helped me escape and although I'm not in danger now, I haven't returned for a long time."

Subaru... feels understood.

"... That... must be horrible."

"... I know what it's like to be suddenly kicked out of your home."

However... Otto didn't look really sad about the whole situation life had led him to until then.

"Still... I'm fine... I started my business as a merchant. With some problems at the beginning... my bad luck never disappeared. But I consider myself very skillful in business. I grew little by little, and I haven't had huge problems lately."

He says proudly... except for... one very tiny detail.

"... Well... everything perfect... Except for the oil."

"... Something to remind you you're still an Otto, I suppose."

Subaru can't help but tease him just a little. Now that he knows there's no problem with it, he doesn't have to hold back.

"... You were behaving so well. Are you going to start annoying me again?"

"Hey. Now that I know how we were, I can get used to you feeling like before."

"Sure it's not that you just want to make fun of me?"

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

"Tsk. Yeah, right."

Otto, although resigned, can't help but smile.

"I'm glad you two get along wonderfully. I was starting to feel a lot of pity and sorrow for Otto every time you spoke."

"Huh-?... Is that the only thing you thought when I told my story with Subaru?"

Rem makes a slight silly face.

"Mmm? I don't understand what you mean."

"... It's clear he was also a friend who made an impact on you."

"I guess Subaru is a very influential person in your life."

"... Yes... I guess so..."

Although the start of their relationship, mainly because of how they met, was tense, both couldn't help but identify a little with the other. Mainly because of the common friend they have.

"... Wow!... Is that tree the...?"

Who is looking outside the highway. Observing a large and beautiful... and mainly the great beautiful Tree that was there.

"Flugel's Great Tree... It's beautiful, isn't it?"

Rem can't help but smile at seeing Subaru's excitement. It was cute to see him like that every now and then.

"It's... gigantic... I had heard about it thanks to Beako-sensei and others... But I didn't expect it to be so... majestic..."

"Majestic?... I guess that's one way to say it... This, along with the tree in the capital, is one of Rem's favorite places... She would like Subaru-kun to visit it with her soon."

Rem had one of those favorite hidden places in the capital. Or at least, not so visited.

This week she couldn't go. So it wouldn't be a bad idea to go again with Subaru at the next opportunity.

"..."

"... But I'm supposed to have... already done that."

But that comment makes Subaru doubt again. Because... he still doesn't know exactly what happened.

When he saw Otto for the first time, and saw that he knew him... he got too excited. Maybe because it was a way to forget those doubts eating at his mind.

But now, he can't avoid thinking about that again... And no matter how much he tries... the only possible conclusion he sees is... totally unreal.

Making him sigh with some resignation.

"... I guess I'll just take in the view for now."

Turning to look at his side again... only this time... it's totally dark.

"... Hey... It got dark earlier than I thought, didn't it?"

Subaru asks aloud to his two friends.

It was late, yes... But... not THAT late.

"... Actually, yes... It's not so rare for it to get dark earlier than normal some days. But now you can barely see the road..."

"... Do you have something to light the way, Rem?"

"Uh, Rem only has a small emergency magic lantern."

She says while taking out an object she had beside her.

"... Although it's not very useful on a moving carriage."

"It would be great to have a magic flashlight."

In response to Otto's words, Subaru searches in his pockets for a particular object.

"... I don't have a magic one, but I think I can use my phone's."

Although its use was almost nil, Subaru always carried his cell phone with him... it was a kind of self-punishment that forced him to remember the being he was before being summoned...

... But he didn't need to think about that.

He just takes it out of his pocket, and starts shining it around. It's incredible that it still has battery after all this time.

"... This is... fog?"

You can barely see through the light concentrated in one direction.

So it's very difficult-

"Oh... I think I see something."

Subaru points just to the left side of the carriage. On the opposite side from Rem.

And sees... A giant eye in the middle of the darkness.

"...!"

And a dense and strong gust of wind starts hitting them.

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"ARghhh!"

"Subaru-kun!"

Subaru can feel his body float for a few seconds in the air. With no part of his body touching the ground or the carriage. Just flying and heading towards almost certain death.

"Gyaaa!!"

"Arggh!"

If it weren't for the combined teamwork of Rem and Patrasche, who managed to catch him before it was too late.

"Nfh... What was that-"

"ROOOOOAAHAHHHHH!"

"Ngh!!" (x3)

Interrupting Subaru's voice, who was collapsed in the left carriage, a strong screech resounds throughout the fog-covered landscape. Making all three shudder.

"Nghh!... This is bad. The Carriage Dragon's blessing has broken. The wind is hitting us head-on..."

"What happened? What the hell is that thing?... Don't tell me it's-"

"There's only one thing capable of flying through all that fog in the air, Natsuki-san! That beast is...!"

"ROOOOOOOAHHHHH!"

"The White Whale!!"

As if it were a click. Subaru's mind understands the situation immediately...

And that understanding, just as quickly... turns into pure terror.

"The... The White Wha-"

"It's the one... who killed Rein's grandmother... Who killed the former Sword Saint...The three of us... We don't have a chance!"

Terror starts to dominate his body... But he tries his best to compose himself. As pathetic as he looked trying.

"Rem! Can you see where it is!?"

"I can't! It's too dark! I dropped the lantern when I grabbed you in the air!"

"The Wh-wh-wh...!"

Otto starts to tremble... he had always had bad luck, but this...

This was much more than just this.

"I... I..."

Subaru is submerged in terror... But if they didn't do anything... they were going to... they... again...

"Otto! Rem! Head left! We have to escape the Fog!"

"Gyaaa!"

Even though the order was directed at them two, Patrasche didn't have to wait for Rem's orders for her to follow her master's plan.

"Ah! Good! Left, left, left!"

Otto, driven by adrenaline, obeys quickly.

Quickly, the two carriages increase their speed.

"Roahhhhhh!"

But the sound wasn't heard farther away... in fact...

It sounded right beside them.

"Shit!"

And a new gust of wind envelops them.

"Take this!"

Rem jumps onto the moving carriage. Throwing her morning star directly at the creature's eye near them.

"Roahhhh!!"

It hits and the sound of the beast's pain is heard.

However, that doesn't make anyone let their guard down. It only increases the tension in everyone.

"Why is the white whale here!? Why right here?"

"We had taken an alternative route just to avoid it...! Did it follow us? How? We're very far!"

"... My attack hit it... Maybe with that we'll gain some time."

Rem lands, changing carriages. Being in the same place where Otto and Subaru were.

"We have to increase our chances of escape... Huma!"

Rem fires one of her ice attacks aimed at the carriage Patrasche was pulling. Breaking the ropes that tied one to the other.

"... I'm sorry, Subaru-kun. But the less weight she has to carry, the better our chances of escape."

The carriage where the 3 of them were needed to survive. So that they could escape.

But if another carriage was there, it would be better to get rid of it.

"Yes... That's a good point. Well thought... Patrasche! Stay close to us. The fog won't allow us to separate without getting lost."

"Gyaaa!"

Patrasche approaches to be right next to her master. Seeking to protect him from any possible threat.

"The white whale usually stays only in open places. We have to escape quickly from this landscape."

"Good... Let's go all out in a straight line!"

With those desperate hopes, everyone moves forward hoping that...

"Roahhhhhhhh!"

"... Is it getting closer?"

A loud noise that mixes in the air, surrounded by fog... Makes it impossible to see an attack that is truly lethal.

"... What do we do? What do we do!?"

Rem's mind had two different thoughts.

One said the best option for them to have a chance to escape... Was a distraction.

Should she throw herself and jump off the carriage?... She trusted her own abilities to be able to withstand a fight. At least for a few valuable minutes so Subaru and Otto could escape.

And even if she died in battle... Subaru would survive... That was what she needed... that was enough for her... That was enough for her...

... That was enough for her... If only she were the same idiot and small Rem from her childhood.

She didn't want that. She didn't want that!

She had something more to live for. Her hero had opened her eyes to how amazing it was to live. She wanted to live. She wanted to live for her sister. For her hero. For herself!

If she died here... If she dared to make such a stupid idea that ensured her death... She knew she was betraying the effort they had spent on her.

"Subaru-kun. Can you cast spells?"

"Huh?... Uh, I think I can cast several Minya spells."

"Good! Attack alongside Rem to keep the beast back. Even if you miss, it will give us time to escape and force it to take up space!"

"Ah! Yes!"

Subaru, still trembling slightly, stands up... And takes Rem's hand, seeking to give confidence to her as well as to himself.

And both raise their other arm.

"Huma!"

"Minya!"

Trusting only their instinct and mutual confidence, both friends fight together. Attacking the beast hidden in the fog at the same time.

Otto just trusted his dragon companion to lead the way.

...

Maybe it was stupid to think optimistically in a situation like this... His bad luck always accompanied him...

But this time... Subaru too... And he was amazing...

If they were together... Maybe everyone could-!

"Gyaaahk!"

A sharp sound of pain screeches in the air... But this time... it doesn't come from the great beast...

But... from a small earth dragon.

"Patrasche!"

"Ghhkk..."

And a crash makes the ground tremble... When the white whale stops attacking in the air and comes down hard. Devouring the earth. Devouring the grass.

... Devouring Patrasche.

"... P... P-Pastra..."

"Subaru-Kun/Natsuki-san!"

In shock at what he had just seen... Subaru couldn't understand anything around him... much less when he feels his body being pushed hard by two different arms. The three of them falling from the carriage.

"Roaahhh!"

... Carriage that is quickly destroyed when devoured by the whale...

The only way to escape... had completely disappeared before them...

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"..."

"... I feel... so heavy."

Subaru opens his eyes... and feels all his bones burning...

He wasn't sure... But he believed there was more than one broken bone inside himself.

"... Why...?"

And his mind... almost dead like his body... only judges itself...

"Why... did everything go so wrong... again?..."

They were the same thoughts... he had yesterday...

"Everyone had such a quiet life before I arrived... Why now... is everyone suffering?"

"... Suba...un...!"

"... A-uki-san...!"

His ears weren't even working clearly... he only heard desperate echoes around him.

He tries to lift his head... One eye wasn't working for him, a stone had embedded itself in it.

But he didn't care about that pain. No one cares about his pain.

He only looks with helplessness and terror at the image in front of him... At two beings running towards his direction.

A gray-haired boy... who had lost his hat and was holding his bleeding arm...

A blue-haired maid girl... who had her dress full of dirt and mud, accompanied by some small scars on her face.

And...

"ROAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!"

And a giant white whale behind them... That comes down hard and...

"Ah!" (x2)

"... Damn... it..."

And ends up devouring all three of them at the same time...

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Final Notes:

Wow… My first time on Patreon, huh? If you're reading this, it's because you've spent something on me. So, first and foremost, I have to thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Was writing this difficult?… A little. But it wasn't my worst chapter nor the one that made me suffer the most. Although I'm not sure if I feel satisfied with the whale fight.

Everyone knew this was going to end badly, right? It was nothing new.

At least let's hope there are no more loops…

Merry Christmas, everyone! Enjoy being with your family, friends, and everyone! Cherish your moments!

I hope to publish another chapter before the year ends. But I'm not promising anything.

I don't know if the translator failed at any point. Yes that's how it is. let me know

Anyway. Comment, give me advice for this Patreon, and Thank you all, guys! You are the best.

Join The Cluster if you haven't already! Here's the link.

https://discord.gg/nwwbVxV4dC

Once again. Thank you! See you! Byeee!!