Day 5
"Thank you very much for the tea, Ram."
Sitting elegantly on the chair in his office, a certain blue-haired clown was seen thanking for the cup of hot tea he was drinking, thanks to the pink-haired maid standing in front of him.
"It's nothing, Master Roswaal."
With the tray full of tea cups and the still hot teapot, Ram responds by giving a slight bow forward, Giving a very subtle sign of respect and obedience. She almost seems like a capable maid.
"May I ask how the mansion has been in my absence?"
Roswaal asked, without stopping drinking his tea nor letting go of that wide smile on his lips. For those not accustomed, Observing someone like him smiling at all times, could be considered a sight that might generate some fear.
However, For all the mansion's residents, Ram in particular, seemed to have become completely familiar with such a sight… Although even she had to admit it was somewhat disturbing at times. Not that she was going to say it.
"There has been no inconvenience."
"None at all?"
"None."
She affirms forcefully, without showing even a hint of doubt. As if the possibility that she had made a mistake in something were absurd in itself.
"Ram has been able to maintain the mansion in its entirety by herself. In addition to making one or another visit to Beatrice-sama. The mansion is functioning completely."
Roswaal gave a small silent laugh upon hearing his loyal maid's words.
Of course, He expected such a response from her. She was a proud girl after all. So it was normal that she wouldn't admit one or two small mistakes that might have slipped by her.
Like the large amount of dust that the mansion was slowly accumulating.
Or how the flowers and leaves in the garden were slowly starting to wither and fall into a terrible state.
Or how everyone in the mansion had started eating only boiled Tatoes all week…
Ignoring the last one, it was visible that Ram was not capable of keeping the mansion afloat 100% by herself. Or at least she didn't have enough energy or determination to do so. Perhaps if she tried harder she could make a difference on her own.
But it's not something that really surprises or bothers Roswaal. So he appreciates all the effort she has given so far in the mansion.
"I see. I hope taking care of the entire mansion alone hasn't been too much effort for you. Considering that almost a week has passed since you became the only maid available."
"It hasn't. Not at all" She lied without hesitating or biting her tongue "Ram has been a very efficient and capable maid at all times. She could continue doing it forever."
"Really?" Roswaal raised an eyebrow with amusement.
"Completely" She nodded with another smile. Before adding "Although Ram admits she may miss the existence of her beloved little sister, She can still keep afloat without her help. And much more with the absence of Barusu. Who contributes nothing."
She insulted her little brother without any need… No. In fact, insulting her little brother was one of her needs and obligations as a good Nee-sama for him. Someone had to have that task after all.
…
Being honest with herself, it was clear that she did miss working with her two sibling companions as a team during these days. But that would be a vulnerability that she would refuse to show to anyone.
"Suuuuuure" Although it seems Roswaal didn't need her to say it to read through her thoughts. He knew her very well, after all.
"Hah!"
At Ram's snort, Roswaal finishes taking a last sip of tea from his cup. Leaving it gently on the table, While he makes a subtle and slight gesture towards her. In a gesture asking for a little more tea.
Ram approaches and with one hand slowly fills the cup.
"I was surprised to learn that you would be connected to our dear Subaru, Raaaaaam."
"…!"
It is only when that comment comes out of Roswaal's mouth that Ram feels a small trembling sensation or tension running through her body.
It wasn't that noticeable. But it was enough for her to take a few steps back instinctively right after filling the cup. Trying to keep Roswaal from noticing that he had touched such an intimate topic for her.
Taking a breath… she tries to speak calmly and relaxed.
"Does it surprise you?"
Although her voice still came out with more curiosity and nerves than she had planned in her intention.
Roswaal just smiles and responds in a slow and calm tone. As if he were saying good morning, or as if he were talking about a casual topic that he particularly liked.
"Well, anyone would be surprised, don't you think? Not every day you meet someone who seems to be connected to so many different people. Inside and outside the mansion, isn't that right?"
Without giving any hint of interest or nerves… Ram could only respond dryly.
"Yes… I suppose it is surprising."
She narrowed her eyes, Looking directly into Roswaal's eyes. As if she wanted to discover if there was anything else that her master was hiding from her. Something that she had to be careful about.
"Is something wrong?"
"…"
Ram understood that he had a point and hadn't lied in his words. Roswaal never lied to her after all.
But that didn't mean at all that she could trust him to that extent. After all, The reason she couldn't fully trust Roswaal… Is because he is Roswaal.
Which complicates releasing any doubt regarding him regardless of the topic in question.
In the end… she could only try.
"Master Roswaal?"
"Yes?"
Risking it and daring to speak, And mainly because of her lack of desire to stay with that doubt in her mind, She asks.
Even if she surely won't get the answer she was looking for, she had to try anyway.
"I have to make sure of something. Barusu's return… The fact that he came back to us after so many years disappeared, Does it have anything to do with you?"
"…"
Roswaal takes a long sip of his tea without showing any kind of reaction.
Was it his way of hiding his thoughts or emotions from the question Ram had asked him? She couldn't be sure.
A few seconds pass before he responds.
"I see. You think I'm also connected to our Subaru in some way?"
Easily seeing through her, Roswaal knew that she suspected that perhaps he and Subaru might have been childhood friends too. Or at least that it wasn't the first time he had seen him.
"That's problematic… It would be convenient not to have more problems."
He thought to himself. He had to make sure not to show any slip. After all, not even he could guarantee that it wouldn't be a big problem for the future if someone discovered that small vulnerability.
"I must say that's a very direct question from your part. Is there something that indicates thaaaaaaat?"
Even though that sentence didn't have that intention, Ram feels that response as a defensive attack towards her, As if he wanted to deny it forcefully.
Which makes her reaffirm her stance and ask even more firmly.
"Emilia-sama and I left a few weeks ago to look for her insignia as a royal candidate, Under your orders. Normally, the Royal Candidate's Patron would have gone in my place, But we still followed your orders without thinking much…It was very coincidental that just on the day Emilia and I went out together, The theft of the insignia occurred, The attack of the Bowel Hunter, The appearance of the Sword Saint… And that all of them were friends that were connected to the day Barusu was summoned to this world again."
"Hmm. Yes. I understand your point. Without a doubt, coincidences can be too much, don't you think?"
"…"
"It seems like you're trying to kill me, Ram" Roswaal said laughing, seeing the pink-haired girl's eyes "Much of what you said has nothing to do with me. Do you really think I couldn't have organized everything?"
Roswaal feels forced to say, When Ram narrows her eyes, And gives him one of the coldest looks she could give to any person she knows.
And the only person who would give her enough reasons to have to give an expression of pure Coldness, was none other than the clown in front of her.
"Precisely because I know you, Master Roswaal, Is why I ask. At this point it doesn't matter how unlikely it is, I will always decide to be careful with you."
"…You do well."
He admitted, Accepting without any difficulty the suspicions of his loyal maid. As much as he might wish it were otherwise, Loyalty is not equal to blind obedience, after all.
"You don't have to worry about it, Ram." Roswaal said, Unusually serious "I could swear by whatever you want that even I was surprised by the appearance of someone who could be connected to Beatrice, to your sister, And to you."
"Do you swear by your book?"
"No. I swear by my Mistress."
Ram blinks and remains silent for a few seconds at such words. She knew Roswaal better than anyone, and therefore, she also knew what a disgusting woman he referred to as his Mistress.
That he would swear something in her name was no small thing. Not even he would be able to lie using her name just like that.
…
Had it all really ended up being the result of a great coincidence? That Roswaal didn't know Subaru at all? That everything had been created solely by the work of fate?
That was something…
"Hard to believe?"
Ram tenses when Roswaal interrupts her thoughts and finishes for her the sentence she was forming inside her mind.
"…A little" She admits. Hating inwardly that she was so easy for him to read.
Roswaal just shrugs for a second. Showing a smile… weaker than before.
"It shouldn't surprise you so much. After all, it's not the first time something happens that is outside my plans or expectations. We both know about the Unforeseen events that shouldn't exist and yet affect me, right?"
"…Yes. I remember what you told me that day. Ram would never forget it."
Ram said without showing any intention of consoling her Master's feelings of frustration.
Although Roswaal was an intelligent and calculating man… as well as manipulative to achieve his goals, Not even he was capable of escaping the many errors and unforeseen events created by the same fate of his past.
They were many more than he would like to admit. And that he had never been able to completely overcome even having that book in his possession.
And Ram understood it very well.
Her condition and her capacity as his personal maid was one of those biggest unforeseen events, after all.
"May I ask more about our dear Subaru?"
But setting aside the topic of his own past, Roswaal decides to ask with slight interest about the friendship connection between his servants.
"Is it important to you?" Ram asks, Trying not to seem too defensive.
It's not that she had anything to hide. She just didn't like that it was precisely him who wanted to hear more about her Kouhai.
"Not really. I just can't help but want to know more about him. After all, He was the boy you once swore you would avenge no matter what, isn't that right?"
"…!"
Suddenly, A small but strong current of air runs through the office, Pushing and throwing several objects to the floor. Including the cups that Roswaal held in his hand, And the tray and teapot that she was holding.
They all fell hard and broke immediately upon hitting the floor, Around the figure of the Maid who, Unable to contain herself, Momentarily releases her horn.
"…"
Roswaal observes without stopping smiling, But even he is surprised by the amount of power of the person in front of him. A power that not even he believed he could defeat so easily.
Ram's expression had changed in an instant. It was no longer that of a loyal maid who would obey all her master's orders.
It was the eyes of an angry Oni god who was willing to torture anyone who had taken what was most valuable from her.
And it seemed that at that moment she was doubting whether to do exactly that with the man in front of her.
"You'd rather not talk about it?"
And yet… Both knew that she was not capable of it.
"…Sigh"
Letting out a puff of air, she makes an effort to bottle up all her frustration and emotions inside her again. Storing her horn inside her once more. But without apologizing or showing remorse for her outburst.
"…You know that Ram will obey your orders. It wasn't necessary to ask."
She responds in a courteous tone… Too courteous, as if she wanted to mark the greatest possible distance between them.
"I touched a sensitive topic… I suppose I asked for it."
Roswaal thought upon seeing his servant's reactions. Although he still did not apologize for his words. It served him to understand what he was dealing with.
It's not that he really enjoyed seeing her angry or frustrated. So he wouldn't really try unless it was necessary.
"Despite your harsh words to him these past few weeks, it's obvious that you really appreciate him, isn't it?"
"Appreciate is a very strong word" Ram clarified without looking him in the eyes. Perhaps an attempt to hide her anger or something more.
"Very strong? Do you consider it the wrong word?"
At his question, She remains silent for a few seconds before responding. Inside, she had very clear what she really felt for her little brother and how important he was to her. She knew what she was capable of doing for him.
She just had to think of the right words so that her pride wouldn't be affected in any way by her thoughts.
"Ram can only say that Barusu is someone who stands out from the rest and who has known how to approach her. Whether in a good or bad way."
"You mean that…?"
"He is a person who has managed to figure out how to make me like him and earn just a small bit of my trust and appreciation."
As she spoke of him, She noticed how quickly her voice fell vulnerable when thinking about her trust in him…
"But anything beyond that, is absolutely false. Perhaps Ram should even be stricter with him for taking my beloved little sister away from me this week."
But she quickly clarified a second later. As if she had to make sure that even if she showed some affection for him, It didn't mean she had lowered herself to such a point as to show it.
"I see… He really is capable of reaching anyone's heart, after all."
Although Roswaal could notice the nostalgic look in her. He couldn't believe that that boy could impact her so much as well…
No… actually it was easy to believe. After all, That same boy had also been important to him centuries ago.
The way they spent their time with him was clearly different. And Roswaal had no way of discovering all the precise thoughts and feelings of Ram towards her little brother.
But if it was something similar to what he felt… He believed he could understand the feeling of complete trust in someone like that.
"Alright. I think I have an idea of what you feel for him. How curious, I didn't think someone would be as important to you as your sister."
"That comparison doesn't make sense." Ram corrected "For Ram, Rem is the most important thing there can be. Barusu is simply someone who has come just a little closer to that level."
"Well I would say it's much more than just a little."
Roswaal smiled and laughed upon seeing the… how was it? ah yes, tsunderism of his servant. It was something funny to see...
However, and almost immediately, his voice falls again suddenly. As if he wanted to talk about one last topic of utmost importance. One last topic before closing this conversation for today.
"It's not that I'm doubting. But I need to ask you one last thing about you, Ram."
"...What is it about?"
Ram responds courteously, But getting a little tense upon hearing Roswaal change his way of speaking.
She knew that tone of her master and knew that he only used it when there was something that worried him, or that at least, he took care with…
The fact that he is speaking like this right now, means that there was something that bothered him. But did it have to do with her? That she really didn't expect.
Ignoring her thoughts, she only pays attention to his words.
"As you may have noticed, since our dear Subaru arrived at our mansion, The atmosphere and all of you in general seem to be in a better mood. In addition to improving our relationship with the village, Beatrice leaves the library more often, Rem smiles much more frequently, And Emilia seems more determined than before.
Without a doubt, Subaru's presence has been very pleasant."
Ram smiles. He was right, And she was glad it was that way. After all, she had also noticed the increase in happiness over the past few weeks.
"That's right. The village seems to have become one with Barusu. And he seems to have gotten involved even in the emotions of Emilia-sama's innocence. Ahhh, Barusu always-"
"How willing are you to give him up?"
"…Ah?"
Ram is shocked when Roswaal interrupts her mid-sentence.
Not hatred. Not anger. Just… Shock and Surprise.
She doesn't think she likes what he's trying to say.
"It's just a small and stupid doubt, But I would like to confirm it with you, that's all.
You two definitely share a strong fraternal bond. Even if you deny it, I would say it's on the same level as your biological sister."
"…But?"
"I just want to confirm…Has that changed your role and duty at all?"
"Role?"
Ram clenched her fists. In a new effort not to release her horn once more.
"Our conditions were clear. Weren't they? The reason you serve me, And the reason I saved you… Only you and I know about it.It was easy back then being alone. But now that Subaru is back… Tell me, Which of the two sides do you prefer to be on."
"…Are you really asking me this? Are you really forcing me to choose. Between my loyalty to you… And my relationship with him?"
The fact that someone would dare to ask something of such magnitude from Ram, was for her a sufficient reason to kill him.
But precisely in this case… It had to be him who had to ask.
She remains silent. Strongly hating that clown for having no subtlety in questioning her devotion.
And yet...
"You already have your decision made, don't you?"
Although it was he who said he had a doubt, Roswaal smiled, thinking the answer was obvious to Ram.
And after several seconds, She forces herself to relax her body forcibly. Barely responding in a cold whisper.
"…Don't make jokes of that style, Master Roswaal. Not even Ram will be able to avoid feeling disgusted by you if you keep doing it so often."
"A joke?… Yes. I suppose I made a very bad taste joke this time."
He shrugs. Accepting the harsh words of the girl who had sworn to kill him in the past.
"To be clear… What I said on that occasion when we made our contract remains unmovable. Ram will follow your orders until it is broken. And when that happens, You already know what I will think of doing."
"…I see, You still hold the same determination and hatred as that time, don't you?"
Ram did not respond. She just looked at him with the greatest coldness she could. She would not give him that total peace that he seemed to be seeking.
He did not insist. Finally closing the topic for today.
"Anyway. Thanks again for the tea, Ram. It was a good drink before leaving."
"Before leaving?" Ram raised an eyebrow with slight doubt. "You're going to leave the mansion again?"
"That's right."
He replied dryly. While placing the cup on the table and standing up. Preparing to leave.
"Is it about a new meeting regarding the royal selection?" She asked.
"No. It has nothing to do with that. But I have some matters to take care of in the sanctuary."
"The sanctuary…"
It was the same place she had thought of a few days ago. When she spoke with Beatrice inside her library. And when Roswaal was not present in the mansion...
Without a doubt, coincidences are very scary.
"I understand. May I ask how long it will take you to return?"
"A few days. Maybe a week at most. I'm sorry to leave you alone in the mansion again."
"No. Ram will be completely fine taking care of the mansion in your absence."
"I hope so. You will be under Emilia's orders. Although I hope nothing serious happens while I'm away."
"Understood. I will be waiting for your return."
Giving a last bow towards him, Ram says goodbye to her Master as he leaves the room. Remaining completely alone inside his office.
"…"
Finally, she can finally completely relax and release all the tension she had stored inside her.
For a second, she almost thought she was going to release her horn in its maximum splendor and destroy the entire mansion right there.
At the end of the day, it seems she still has some problems controlling her emotions.
"Give up him and everything for you…"
And when she seriously considers the possibility of abandoning everything she had for the mage who just left.
"Disgusting"
She couldn't help but let out another one of pure disgust and hatred at such a possibility.
Day 6
Inside the Forbidden Library, to the almost disgust of the drill-haired spirit, in that place that had become the mansion's meeting point over the last few days, three different beings were together.
And the synchrony between them was… Particular.
"You should be studying, I suppose?"
Making Beatrice reply with annoyance. Although she was still stroking the soft feline fur of her spirit brother between her fingers.
"Well, now that Roswaal isn't here, there's no one to scold Lia if she stops studying. Maybe the maid would, but I think she's preferred to let it slide for now."
Puck responded with a small amused smile. While he was enjoying his little sister's caresses, he didn't really care if his daughter wanted to take a small break.
Although Betty thinks the same, She says it differently.
"So now your daughter plans to slack off now that there's no one to scold her, In fact?"
"H-Hey! That's not true!"
The last girl present, Emilia, shouts indignantly. Refusing to accept the words that Beatrice had said so harshly and without thinking.
After all, they weren't true at all!
"Really?" Beatrice didn't seem to believe her while still playing with her brother "Then what are you doing here? I thought you would have to study several more books, In fact."
"Ahem."
At Beatrice's scolding, Emilia coughed loudly, clearing her voice. As if she wanted to give a strong speech or something of utmost importance.
"Since the last time I came here to the library to read with you, I have studied a lot, a lot, a llllllot." She emphasized while lengthening the syllable. "Puck can vouch for it!"
"She's right" Puck responded mid-yawn when Beatrice looked at him seeking confirmation "Lia even asked Ram to prepare a little less food and bring it to her room to eat there. All just to study as much as possible."
"...Well, they're just boiled Tatoes. It's not like you can expect much."
Beatrice grumbled. She was already starting to get tired of eating only Tatoes all these days. That didn't matter right now, I suppose.
"The point is that I have learned not just 2, No not just 3! But 4 complete books in a single day of studying!" She struck a proud pose.
"Woooooow!".
Puck applauded when his daughter shouted happy and excited. As if he were totally satisfied with what she had achieved based on sheer hard work. And Beatrice just made a half-smile.
"So right now I am fully entitled to read the rest of the manga for today!"
She finished saying, While holding a smile of childish excitement at being able to continue reading her book in Beatrice's library who…also seemed to be smiling even more for some reason.
"By Od. Bubby was right when he said you had become obsessed with the mangas, I suppose" She said trying to sound serious. But her voice came out with amusement.
"I told you" Puck said, looking at his little sister's expression. "Although in her defense, you seem just as excited, Betty."
"Hmph! It's only because my son should return tomorrow, In fact." Beatrice denied and responded while walking to one of her bookshelves and grabbing another book from her collection "Tomorrow will be a good day so, I suppose Betty can read to wait until then."
"I appreciate it, Betty" To which Emilia, Although trying to be patient, shows herself agitated as she sits cross-legged in front of the two spirits.
It seemed that today was going to be a good day.
"Hmm. By the way, Bubby."
"What's wrong, Betty? Do you need a second narrator?"
"Since when did Betty become a narrator, I suppose?"
"Maybe since you learned to read these books."
Emilia said laughing, enjoying being here with two spirits.
"I just wanted to ask, What did Roswaal want to talk to you about the day before yesterday?"
"Huh? Puck talked to Roswaal?"
"It's nothing to worry about" He said, downplaying it "It was about something regarding the Royal Selection and what to do if something happens."
"The Royal Selection? Shouldn't I be informed?"
"Don't worry about it, Lia. It's just a small favor he asked of me. It's nothing important."
"Well… In that case, Beatrice?"
"Yes?"
"Let's go with Cid and Emily's date!"
"…Sigh. I suppose."
Even when Beatrice said with feigned annoyance, She began to read the manga once more again today.
These moments where she could freely talk and narrate these important books for her… made her very happy.
The hours had already passed… Even Puck had gotten a little involved in the story that his little sister was narrating.
They had already read several books from her collection. To be precise, they had already read the entire collection available in her library.
It seems that romance mangas are known for not being really long. Or at least not this one in particular. For Beatrice was narrating the second half of the last book she had left. The end of
"The Summer Festival".
Emilia… who at the beginning had a childish and excited smile for the first volumes, was now concentrated on the book in a much more serious way.
As if she were paying close attention to all the narrated words as if she were looking for something more hidden among them.
"Why do you have that long face, I suppose? It's not like it's a Seinen."
"…And what is a Seinen?"
"You wouldn't understand, Bubby."
"What happened next?" She asked…For some reason, she felt she needed to know if she wanted her mind to return to peace.
"So intense, I suppose."
Even so, she continued.
"In the end...When night fell and the moon rose, and the stalls began to close, the couple had moved away from everyone, sitting next to each other near a river."
"The moon sure is pretty tonight" —said the boy.
"Yes, it's far beyond our reach" —said the girl.
"That is…!"
Emilia didn't have time to keep thinking about how familiar those words were. After all, Beatrice didn't stop speaking.
"Under the night, The boy changed his expression, fearing that his next question could change everything in their relationship.
Gently, the boy turned around to face the girl he loved. Looking her straight in the eyes. There wasn't that doubt that usually existed when being so close to her. Not this time.
And finally… he spoke. He brought out the question he had kept to himself all day, waiting for that moment. And from his mouth came… 'Emily…?'"
"…Yes?"
And when she spoke by instinct, Unable to avoid saying the same as in that nightmare… Hoping that she would receive an answer in the next dialogue, she only gets a-
"Could You Forget me?"
When those narrated words come out of Beatrice's mouth, She slowly closes the book in her hands, leaving the ending open to this story.
"…W-What?"
"Is that really the end?" Puck raised an eyebrow with a smile "I thought there would be more before it ended."
"It can't be. It can't end there! You have to have another book, don't you, Beatrice?"
"I suppose Betty has no more manga of this type to narrate."
Beatrice shrugged, walking slowly towards her bookshelf and placing the manga at the end of her collection.
"What? But…It doesn't have a clear ending! It can't have ended there!"
"The story is still ongoing, I suppose."
"Huh?"
"When Betty's Subaru brought her these books several years ago, he told her that this story was still being released. I suppose these are all the volumes that were available at the time."
"That means it continues, doesn't it? What happens next!?"
"I haven't asked him, I suppose. If you want to know more, you'll have to ask him in person." Beatrice responded to her words.
"Really… It all ended there?"
"Hmm. But what's the meaning of that request?" Puck spoke. With slight interest
"Hmm? What do you mean?"
"I mean, those two humans love each other, don't they? Or at least that's what the book is supposed to be about."
"Yes, that's right."
"So why did the boy ask the girl to forget him and stay away from him?"
"…"
"You weren't there when we narrated the rest of the work, Bubby. That's why you didn't understand everything that question entailed."
"Ah yes? And what does it entail?"
"Emily and Cid live in completely different worlds. They only study in the same place temporarily. But when the year ends…"
"Emily and Cid will separate."
Beatrice and Emilia clarified in unison.
"Hmm? Can't they be together?"
"Cid has his fixed place where he can grow his talent with the guitar. And Emily has been accepted into a place to professionalize her singing ability…Both already have their futures and dreams secured. They just have… to go."
"Both just have to choose. Between staying together or continuing with their own future...Emily couldn't choose. And Cid knew it… That's why he decided for her."
"Forget about me, Continue alone, Fulfill your dreams, And be happy away from me."
That's all that question entails.
"…"
"Hmm. It seems the book will have a bittersweet ending in that case, huh?"
"If the author decides to go for a realistic ending and not a fanciful one… Most likely, yes. I suppose each will fulfill their dreams alone."
"I think… I think that-"
Emilia tried to speak. Giving her personal opinion about the ending. And perhaps with more emotion than she should have in the first place.
"Emilia-sama!"
"Ah!"
Suddenly, And with force and urgency, someone had opened the library doors wide. Making the doors make a noise as loud as if someone had kicked them.
Taking the three members inside by surprise, The three pairs of eyes quickly focus on the new and last figure inside the mansion.
"Huh? Ram?"
Ram, who had just entered the library, seemed to have her face slightly sweaty. As if she had been running for the last few minutes throughout the mansion.
One can assume that the trick of finding the Forbidden Library through Subaru's room method had not borne fruit this time. Perhaps she had been looking for everyone by going through each door for a while.
But what could have led her to look for them in such a hurry?
"An urgent letter has just arrived from Barusu."
"…Huh?"(x3)
The three said instinctively.
"Hello Beako-sensei, Nee-sama, Emilia-tan, Puck, Roswaal or whoever is reading this letter in the mansion.It must be strange to receive a letter like this. Mainly considering that we should have arrived tomorrow.However, This letter is very important for you.I don't know if it's possible to write this without generating tension from you, So I'll just say it directly.The Witch Cult will attack The mansion during tonight and tomorrow morning.I know it sounds like I'm crazy. But you have to believe me. It's the truth.The attack will be carried out by The Archbishop Representing the Sin of Sloth.Even if they plan to attack the mansion, We cannot guarantee that the village will be safe from them.I managed to get help through an Alliance with the Camps of Anastasia, Crusch and Priscilla. All of us will go to help defend the Attack.In the best case scenario, We will stop them before they attack. But in the worst case, I need you to evacuate the mansion and the village for your safety.Below I will leave the Plan along with all our allies in battle. I hope to see you safe tomorrow."
"Sincerely. Barusu"
"P.S: It feels weird writing such a serious letter. Not my style, is it?"
Surrounded by a table in the meeting room, Each and every one of them was…completely silent after Ram read with an almost forcibly calm voice the letter that the boy from another world had sent.
But even with that last line, with her friend's joking jab in surely an attempt to calm the nerves that his letter would bring, was insufficient to cheer anyone there.
After all, he… had just unleashed chaos and a bomb as if it were nothing.
"Barusu… How the hell did you get yourself into this?"
Ram murmured to herself, after re-reading the letter for the second time since the Karsten mansion caretaker had delivered it to her a short while ago.
It seems she had received the letter only 15 minutes before entering the library. And upon seeing and recognizing her little brother's handwriting, She didn't think much about reading and opening it. Considering that the letter could be read by anyone inside the mansion.
It's true that she considered it strange that it was brought by a caretaker from the Karsten mansion. But she had let it slide considering that they had some kind of relationship due to their knight and the King.
But the content inside the letter… was certainly something that she, nor any of those present, expected. And she couldn't even ask for any kind of guidance, help, or information from her master Roswaal, since he…
"Did you know?"
She narrows her eyes once again considering that possibility. She could feel anger imbuing inside her once again at the possibility that this too was within his plans.
"My son has…"
Beatrice was silent. With her eyes totally serious. Thinking about her son and his letter with the greatest concentration as best she could.
She knew the Witch Cult. In fact, it was much harder to find someone who DIDN'T know the Witch Cult.
And for that very reason, knowing that according to her son's words, the mansion where she resided was going to suffer an attack led by a Sin Archbishop… Did not make her panic, But she also couldn't say she wasn't slightly worried.
She didn't really care about the presence of many others. Neither inside nor outside the mansion. Of course, she didn't hate them, But she didn't exactly care for them either.
If she knew that there was someone who would be suffering outside her reach, she couldn't guarantee that she would try to help them.
It wasn't because she was a bad person. It simply wasn't her concern and for that very reason she didn't have the desire to protect anything that wasn't hers.
But, Attacking not only the village and her son's close friends, But also attacking the mansion where he resided and allowed him to be near her?
That was certainly something she wanted to intervene in.
"Hmm. The Witch Cult, An attack on the mansion and the human is involved… This got complicated, huh?"
Puck said while tossing the letter. Wanting to read it over and over while having a carefree and relaxed exterior expression. As if he wasn't really affected by the news.
However, And being without a doubt and by far the least affected by the letter, he believed he had to be the one to keep a cool head.
Asking himself several questions trying to answer them. And if he couldn't, at least look for a possibility for his daughter to come out unscathed.
"You've only been gone a week, And when you come back you bring a cult behind us…"
Although he doesn't say it, He blames the boy for all the problems he always seemed to have with him. He will be someone who will always bring trouble, huh?
And in the half-elf's mind.
"The W-Witch Cult?"
She was… blank. As if no part of her body had processed what had just happened over the past few minutes.
She was happily reading her romance manga with her father and Beatrice. And now she has to find out… how to repel the attack of a cult directed at her?
Her mind simply seemed not to really comprehend the information that the letter had brought with it.
It wasn't that she didn't understand it. Even a 7-year-old girl could understand the not-so-subtle message her friend had sent her.
But it's just that… It seemed so out of place to be able to believe it so easily. Or perhaps it was herself trying to run away from the problem once again.
She just stays still in silence. Not knowing what to do. Almost waiting for someone to tell her what to do.
"…I cannot allow that-"
Although her thoughts dictated otherwise.
Even so, Someone's words interrupt her.
"According to what the letter says, Barusu has already taken measures. It seems he is being completely serious."
Ram, seeing that everyone remains silent about the letter, decides to be the first to speak.
She at least had already had some time to assimilate the letter.
Only 15 minutes, it's true. But that was more than everyone else had counted. So she would be the one to take temporary leadership to defend the mansion.
After all, She cannot allow losing her home, And her loved ones again this time.
"Betty's Subaru seems to have made an alliance with the rest of the candidates." Beatrice was the second to speak, Agreeing with Ram "Those names are from the Hoshin, Karsten and Barielle camps?…Betty would like to know the details. But will have to leave it for later."
"According to Emilia-sama, Barusu has relationships with all the camps, doesn't he?"
"Huh? Ah. Yes!" Emilia responded, nodding instinctively when Ram addressed her in a quick second.
"In that case, That must be the reason why it was easy for them to make a triple alliance." Ram concluded.
"Even so, that doesn't mean he didn't have to negotiate to achieve it…"
Beatrice remains silent for a few seconds, before changing the subject.
"We shouldn't even focus on how he got help. But on the help itself. Will their forces alone be enough to repel an attack of such magnitude?"
"They are being led by the Archbishop of Sloth. And as described in his plan, his Authority is related to invisible hands. If Barusu and his forces manage to finish him off before he reaches the mansion, we would only have to deal with the remaining Cultists. But if they can't stop him, We must have a backup plan to deal with him."
"Hmm."
At Ram's plan, The sound of Puck's thoughts resonated in the room. It wasn't a really loud or annoying sound. But it made itself noticed in a room full of the noise of silence.
"…Is something wrong, Bubby?"
"No. It's nothing, I was just thinking that you all aren't… giving too much trust?"
"...What do you mean?"
"I agree with your reasoning and thoughts. I also think we should do that" He said floating over the table. Before clarifying his point "I just thought you took the words the letter said as truth so easily. You didn't question for a second that that human might be lying or giving wrong information."
"…"
When Puck spoke, Beatrice and Ram and Emilia blinked for a few seconds…Realizing that he was right.
All of them immediately believed the words written in the letter as if it were an absolute truth not to be doubted. They didn't think for a moment that it was false information.
Of course, In their minds were doubts about how Subaru had obtained that information, How he was able to negotiate with the Camps, how he had gotten involved with such a group… But they did not believe that anything he had said was false.
Why did they immediately believe him?
"Well… It's Subaru, isn't it?"
Said Emilia without thinking much. Although she didn't understand it, She felt that if he said it, it must not be a lie.
And simply, that was enough reason for the three.
"You really are all fallen for him."
Puck sighed. He doesn't know if from resignation or disappointment, But it didn't matter. Whether the letter is true or not, He would not change his way of acting or his plan to defend Emilia from any danger.
"If he is asking us to evacuate, it means that not even the village is in a safe zone. Isn't that right?"
"The Witch Cult has no filter when it comes to victims" Ram responded to Puck with slight disgust at thinking about the cult "Whether they are civilians, children or whoever, if they are in front of them they will not hesitate to kill them."
"Everyone is talking. I… I'm not doing anything."
Emilia kept looking at Puck, Beatrice and Ram arguing among themselves. Without having the opportunity to join the conversation…
Was it always like this? Was she always the one who let others argue? Had she always been so ignorant as not to think about these situations?
"I… I don't want them to decide For me. Unlike Emily I…"
Filling herself with determination for a childish reason, Almost as childish that she would be ashamed to speak, She finally forces her lips to move.
"Ram!"
"…Yes?" She responded in surprise.
"You have a Clairvoyance ability, don't you? Please use it to watch the forest around the Village. If the Witch Cult really plans to attack, you should notice something strange or something that gives us a clue."
"…Understood, Emilia-sama."
Ram accepted after taking a few seconds to recover from Emilia's tone. It was a bit more shouty than firm. But it was still a change she did not expect.
"Lia?" Even Puck was surprised by the seriousness and determination that his daughter seemed to have suddenly gained.
"The village seems to be in danger as well. According to this, the attack should occur during tomorrow morning, But even so, the best thing would be to take action now."
Without stopping speaking, She looked into Beatrice's eyes, Who raised an eyebrow.
"I suppose we won't count on your help outside the mansion?" She asked. Intuiting the spirit's response.
"If the Witch Cult plans to attack the mansion, Even more so Betty will not abandon the library.."
Beatrice remains silent for a few seconds reconsidering her words. Before finally adding.
"Betty will defend the library and the mansion, I suppose."
Emilia smiled. That was the confirmation she needed to hear for when no one was in the library.
"Thank you, Betty. I appreciate it."
"Don't call me that, I suppose."
Finishing speaking, Emilia turned to see her father's face, And for the first time in this outburst of determination, Her voice faltered a little.
"Puck… Night is about to fall."
At her words, He couldn't help but let out a noise of frustration and resignation. If the attack occurred in the middle of the night, He wouldn't be able to do anything… How lucky the Witch Cult was if they counted on that.
"Yes. My bedtime is approaching. I would really like to be able to avoid it in this situation."
However, A contract was already signed. And breaking it by force would bring nothing good. Even if he wanted to.
With no other options, He floats and turns to look at Ram.
"Roswaal told me that you're super strong. Isn't that right? Can I count on you to protect Lia while I'm not here?"
"Yes, Spirit-sama. It's my duty after all" Ram affirmed. Even if he hadn't asked her, she would have done it.
She was a maid temporarily under his charge after all.
"Good. That leaves me calmer… Lia. I don't want you to do anything dangerous in my absence."
Emilia remained silent for a few seconds, Thinking how to respond without telling any lies and without having to worry her spirit father further.
"Don't worry, Puck. I'll be fine. I will only do what I believe I must do so that you can feel proud of me… And so that I can feel proud of myself as well."
That was her response in the end. Before Puck accepted, And disappeared into the air, Taking refuge under his daughter's collar around her neck.
Leaving the three girls alone.
"If Betty's Subaru is coming with reinforcements, It means they only have to evacuate and resist until then, I suppose."
"That's good. It works. But it doesn't mean we can't do more than just resist."
Arming herself with a determination that she didn't even know she had, Emilia declared.
She didn't know if she was doing a good job as a leader. Or if she was just giving obvious orders.
But she felt that she could not fail on this occasion.
"During the following hours, We will not seek to Resist… We will seek an absolute defense with no casualties throughout the village. We will seek victory."
And filling herself with courage, The plan to repel Sloth from the mansion had begun.
Notes:
So? That's how it ends…Uhhh. Maybe I made the ending a bit rushed. I mean the scene with Betty, Emilia, and Puck.I didn't have much brainpower available. University is horrible, you know? I never feel like I really have free time.On the other hand. The chapter came out much better than I expected. The previous one was horrible, so even though it could be improved, I'm not complaining at all about this result.I'm satisfied.So? The week at the mansion is over.The return of our protagonist is coming! I was already missing him.There should be no more than 5 chapters left for arc 3 to end. I hope it's not boring for anyone at this point.Sorry for my inactivity, by the way. I have to apologize.Anyway. That's all. Comment. Thanks for supporting me and see you in a new chapter. Bye!