Arc 10, Part 10: "The Sediment of Trust"

"So, in the end, even from your eyes, Boss, you couldn't tell which one was the real missing royalty—that 'Saint' Philore or Lady Felt? Here."

"But you did see Duchess Karsten’s body recovered afterward, didn't you? Regardless of whether she's royalty, that power of 'Sacrament' must be the real deal, right? Yes."

"Yeah. I think Beako and Rem, who went with me, can vouch for that too. What Emilia-tan and the others saw was definitely real. ...Plus, I can't really deny the description of Philore being a 'super good girl' either. She seemed like the Emilia-tan type, without a bone of malice in her body. Yup."

With a deep sigh, Subaru recalled the rumored 'Saint' he had met face-to-face at the church that day. With an indescribable feeling, he tucked the plate in his hand onto the shelf.

The cupboards in the Royal Villa were stocked with plenty of tableware, both wooden and ceramic. Subaru and the others were currently in the middle of washing, drying, and putting away the dishes they had used for their meal. The order was Garfiel washing at the sink, Petra drying, and Subaru putting them away.

Since the Royal Villa was a guest house for high-ranking nobles with business in the capital, it was basically fully equipped with every convenience. If necessary, housekeepers could be dispatched to handle cooking, cleaning, and personal care, but since most nobles brought their own trusted servants, they were rarely called upon.

For the Emilia camp, Petra had taken charge of preparing today's meal, and the cleanup was handled by Subaru and Garfiel, who had lost at rock-paper-scissors.

While the three of them worked together on the cleanup, the conversation drifted into the opening topic.

"...But if it's the real deal even from your eyes, Boss, then my honest feelin' is that I want 'em to do somethin' about the problem in Pristella."

"But what if that proves Philore-san is the real royalty? If that happens, Emilia-姉様's Royal Selection might come to an end, you know?"

"That’s a different story altogether. That 'Saint' Philore has already stepped onto the stage. It’s just that only the bigwigs know about it yet."

Garfiel responded to Petra’s words while splashing soap suds in the water basin. Narrowing his emerald eyes, Garfiel fought against a stubborn stain on a plate with a linen cloth used as a sponge.

"I ain't seen her myself, but if she’s the type to cause such a stir just by her looks, you can't hide her even if you try. Especially if she healed the Duchess and plans to do the same in Pristella."

"—Yeah, I’d give Garf-san a hundred points for that understanding. You’ve become quite good at reading social trends. Good boy, good boy."

"Don't talk to me like it's a test! I'm tellin' ya, I'm older than you, Petra!"

Though his head was being patted by Petra, who looked like a teacher, Garfiel couldn't resist as his hands were plunged into the basin; he could only growl and grumble. Watching their interaction with a smile, Subaru couldn't help but feel an ominous shift in the world's current.

"At this point, it feels like a yellow light for the progress of the Royal Selection, but..."

If this were to turn into a red light, would it ever turn green again? Would Emilia ever be able to fulfill her role as a candidate properly?

"————"

To be honest, Subaru worried that the moment the possibility of a surviving princess became a choice between Felt and Philore, the Royal Selection had shifted into a quest for the answer of 'which one is the legitimate heir.'

Naturally, as Emilia’s number one knight, he couldn't accept that. But even putting aside that bias, there was something that didn't sit right with him. It was a topic they had discussed while heading to the capital at 'Reinhard-speed.'

"In the first place, even before Philore showed up, when the suspicion about Felt being the princess first arose, why didn't the momentum just shift to Felt being the next King immediately?"

Of course, it was certain that this world lacked convenient and reliable materials for identifying individuals, like DNA testing, fingerprinting, or dental records.

However, the reasons for the suspicion surrounding Felt were quite vague: rare physical characteristics and an age that matched the missing princess. If that were enough to function as proof of lineage in this world, the Royal Selection could have ended that day in the castle before Subaru even had the chance to make a fool of himself.

"But it didn't happen. And the biggest reason for that is—"

"—The Dragon Tablet."

Subaru raised his eyebrows at having his conclusion snatched away. Petra, having finished wiping the plate Garfiel handed her, stared at him as she offered the dish. Subaru nodded with a "Yeah," taking both the plate and the conclusion from her.

"The prophecy board that supposedly helped the Kingdom whenever it was in deep trouble throughout history... Apparently, there was an instruction on that Dragon Tablet to hold the Royal Selection."

"Huh? The way you say that, Boss, makes it sound like there's somethin' botherin' you."

"No, I didn't think much of it when I first heard it. It’s a fantasy world, so I was actually kind of hyped that there were magical items like that... but..."

"But it's different now?"

"Yeah. Because lately, I've come across a few items that tell you about the future... and they've all been bad news."

As Subaru made a face as if he’d chewed on a bitter bug, Petra and Garfiel looked at each other. Subaru had been living in this parallel world for nearly two years, and honestly, there were far too many things in this world that pretended to be prophecies or guides of fate just to meddle in people's lives.

In Vollachia, Abel treated the 'Stargazers' as enemies, and the 'Witch of Greed' he met in the Tomb handed Beatrice a blank book that dictated how she should live. Above all, he had heard that the 'Gospels' delivered to the Witch Cultists twisted their very existence into something evil.

How was the Dragon Tablet any different from those interferences that warped destiny from the sidelines?

"I get the feeling of wanting to rely on it when someone tells you it shows the future. Especially if it has a track record. But letting you win a little at first just to collect a massive, wicked debt later is a classic scammer's tactic."

To drag someone into a convenient choice later, you let them win in areas with little impact. Since you don't know what you'll be forced to do during that crucial big choice, believing too much in that 'tip-off' from fate is a dangerous thing.

Thinking this, Subaru felt a sense of crisis regarding the prophecy of the Dragon Tablet itself, but—

"「————」"

"Huh? What’s with those faces, you two?"

Garfiel and Petra were staring at him with wide eyes. Though they were the younger members of the group, they were reliable confidants—one intuitive and one logical. It was rare for them to have the exact same reaction to a single question. Usually, if one tilted their head, the other would provide a fruitful answer. He had been expecting that.

Then, to the puzzled Subaru, the two spoke one after the other.

"How do I put it—" "—I was just surprised because the idea of doubting the Dragon Tablet's prophecy never even occurred to us."

"Wait, it never occurred to you?"

"Nope." "Yeah."

With both of them nodding simultaneously, Subaru thought it was some kind of joke. But their eyes were dead serious, and their expressions were clouded with confusion and bewilderment. Subaru blinked.

Their reaction felt like they had just been shown a way to solve a quiz that they hadn't even imagined—a reaction to something truly unexpected. It had been a while since he felt this kind of culture gap—no, he had just tasted it recently regarding the succession of the throne by bloodline.

"I honestly thought that was a tragedy caused by me being too unfamiliar with a monarchy where the King is the most important... but is this something deeper, like a religious view?"

It was natural for customs and common sense to differ when the environment was different, but it was a wonder that such a fundamental difference in values hadn't caused major friction until now. He thought he had been living a fairly difficult life in another world, but it seemed it hadn't been the "worst" yet.

Also, the weight of this country being called the 'Dragon-Blessed Kingdom' suddenly became much clearer.

"Petra is a lovely girl who bloomed in a rural village, and Garfiel is a golden rookie who lived in a hidden village isolated from the outside world."

In other words, they were in positions where they hadn't received the same education or benefits as those born and raised in large cities. Even so, the fact that the very idea of doubting the Dragon Tablet didn't exist for them was proof of how deeply trust in the 'Dragon' had settled into the depths of their subconscious.

If it was like this for these two, then those with a strong identity tied to the Kingdom would be even less likely to disregard the Dragon Tablet. —That was exactly why the foundation existed for the Royal Selection to be carried out without hesitation in a situation where the royalty was absent.

If that were the case—

"—What Crusch-san was trying to do was truly incredible."

Setting aside whether her ideals were right or wrong, he finally understood that Crusch’s claim of breaking away from the covenant with the 'Dragon' was an incredibly massive decision in a world where trust in the 'Dragon' was so pervasive.

In fact, based on reputation alone, Crusch had been the overwhelmingly strongest candidate for the Royal Selection. The fact that the Selection hadn't been dyed completely in Crusch’s colors showed just how difficult her pledge was for the current Kingdom to accept. —At the same time, Subaru speculated on her goal for the White Whale subjugation that occurred right after the Selection began.

Of course, that White Whale hunt was partly motivated by her desire to let Wilhelm, whom she had welcomed into her camp, achieve his revenge. However, by slaying the White Whale—one of the Three Great Demon Beasts that had tormented people for centuries—with her own power, perhaps she was trying to demonstrate something.

Her resolve and ideal to lead the Kingdom strongly, even without relying on the covenant with the 'Dragon.'

—In the end, due to Subaru’s intervention, the slaying of the White Whale was publicized as the result of a joint operation between three camps, including the Emilia and Anastasia camps.

Even so, Crusch probably didn't mind. Wilhelm had achieved his revenge, and despite the headwinds from those around her, Crusch had taken the first step toward fulfilling her ideals.

However, Crusch’s ideals were thwarted in an unexpected way—

"Am I an idiot? No, I am an idiot."

Reaching that level of understanding, Subaru finally felt the weight of his own thoughtlessness. Before he even understood the true meaning of the ideals Crusch was trying to uphold, he had visited her and comforted her with shallow empathy and sentiment, promising to be her strength. When combined with the story of the tragic love between Crusch and the Fourth Prince that Ferris had told him in the spirit house, he felt like he could die of shame just thinking about how insensitively his words must have landed.

But—

"Listen, Boss. I hate to say this, but you rushin' in and blurtin' things out is like 'The Lovesickness of a Galogokkuru'—"

"We've been saved by Subaru’s recklessness and impulsiveness before, so I’d rather you didn't speak so badly of it."

"Huh?! I was just about to say that!"

"Sorry, I just wanted to earn some points with Subaru."

Petra stuck out her tongue cutely as she apologized, and Garfiel slumped with a "Gao..."

At their words, Subaru involuntarily bit the inside of his cheek. It was because he was surprised at first, and then immediately didn't know what kind of face to make. He regretted his choice of words to Crusch, but he didn't want to keep a sour face in front of Petra and Garfiel's kindness. As a result, his expression became a clumsy, mismatched mess of emotions.

"...Don't spoil me too much. Once I start leaning on you, I won't know when to stop."

"Is that so? Then I want to spoil Subaru more and more. Right, Garf-san?"

"I dunno if 'spoiling' is the right word, but both you and Big Bro Otto look after everyone else but barely take care of yourselves. Every now and then, I wouldn't mind givin' you a 'high-high' lift."

"Last time you did that, Otto went through the ceiling..."

That was a tragedy that occurred when Otto, having finished a mountain of work, got drunk, and an equally hyped Garfiel tried to reward him with all his might. Otto wasn't injured, and his memory was gone due to the alcohol, so it was a funny story now.

Anyway—

"I thought I had a lot of things I wanted to do and had to do... but now there's one more thing I want to make sure of."

With gratitude, Subaru reached out his hands to pat Garfiel and Petra’s heads. Before the two, who were being tickled by the petting, Subaru narrowed his eyes at the soap bubbles floating and popping in the basin.

There were many people smarter and more knowledgeable than Subaru. If he could give meaning to his presence through his actions and thoughts among such people—

"I want to know exactly what the Dragon Tablet is, first and foremost."

He wanted to believe that being able to doubt what kind of power was at work, what will was behind it, and which future it was trying to lead them toward was the strength of Natsuki Subaru, the person from another world.

He would start by knowing. —If he truly wanted to stand by Crusch and Ferris, who had only felt frustrated and helpless, in the way they truly desired.

Though—

"...Ferris would probably call this kind of thinking 'arrogant.'"

Unexpectedly overhearing the exchange in the kitchen, she was seriously debating whether or not to reach for the door.

"—It sounds like they're in the middle of a conversation that's a bit hard to interrupt, doesn't it?"

"—!"

"Oh my? Did I startle you? If so, I'm sorry."

Meili peeked her head out from behind her. Rem shook her head while readjusting the pitcher in her hand.

"No," she replied.

She had come to the kitchen to refill the water pitcher. Inside, Subaru and the others, who were in charge of cleaning up dinner, were washing dishes with perfect coordination while discussing the Royal Selection. Not wanting to break the flow of their conversation, Rem had been listening outside the kitchen, thinking she would wait until the topic reached a stopping point—

"Don't you think Big Brother Subaru has a really troublesome nature? He always tries to shoulder everything himself; that's why everyone has such a hard time."

When the topic in the kitchen turned to Subaru’s nature—specifically the part where his sense of self-reproach was too strong—Petra and Garfiel immediately corrected and pointed it out, and she could tell Subaru was being moved by it.

It seemed Meili, who was behind Rem, could also visualize the scene inside. She mentioned it in her own way and looked at Rem for agreement, only to widen her eyes.

"Could it be... Big Sister Rem, are you very angry?"

"...I am not angry, but I do feel complicated. Just now, I told him the same things Petra-chan and the others just said."

"Ah, that would explain that face."

Rem wondered what kind of face she was making; Meili’s tone was as if she were touching a sore spot. However, the scene where Rem had told him something similar—Subaru’s appearance at the prison tower, where he looked ready to shoulder the responsibility even for the death of the Sin Archbishop of 'Gluttony'—came to mind. Rem hesitated to dismiss the problem as simply Subaru’s nature.

Because she knew that the reason for Subaru’s way of thinking also lay in her own attitude.

"In the first place, the problem with Big Brother Subaru is that he only seems to count the number of times he’s failed. Honestly, it’s quite rude."

Before Rem, who had lowered her eyes in sentiment and tightened her grip on the pitcher, Meili crossed her arms and muttered while glaring at the kitchen door.

"Rude, you say?"

"Well, isn't it? Even I feel like I've been saved by Big Brother Subaru. Petra-chan and the others feel the same way, which is why they're encouraging him like that... so isn't it annoying when he acts like that?"

Meili puffed out her cheeks, placing a finger to her lips. At her childish sulking, Rem blinked a few times before unintentionally letting out a giggle.

"Oh my, was I just laughed at?"

"I'm sorry. It was just a little unexpected. To my eyes, both you and Petra-chan seemed like children who were quite mature for your age."

"Do you mean 'cheeky'? But while mine is just an act, Petra-chan’s is the result of her trying to grow up fast. If Big Sister Emilia or Big Sister Rem aren't careful, she might overtake you and leave you full of regret."

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

"Is that so? Hehe, is that so?"

Suddenly, as if she had successfully retaliated for being treated like a child, Meili covered her mouth and giggled triumphantly.

Rem let out a sigh at Meili’s reaction and looked at the kitchen door once more.

"It seems everyone in this camp has been saved by that person at some point."

"It seems so. That’s probably why it’s hard to say 'no' when Big Brother Subaru tries to do something dangerous. —But I don't think you need to worry about it."

"—?"

"Because, I don't think there's anyone more brazen or out of place than me."

Meili shrugged, twirling a strand of her braided hair with her finger. Rem narrowed her pale blue eyes at the complex emotions laced in Meili’s voice.

"...It’s a bit late to say this, but I resent not having my 'memories.'"

Meili clearly seemed to be carrying a heavy burden. Unlike Emilia and the others, with whom Rem had deepened her bond in the Vollachian Empire, she had met Meili for the first time in the dragon carriage provided by Reinhard in the Lugunica Kingdom.

Through a rough explanation, she had heard that Meili was originally an enemy of Subaru and the others. However, Subaru’s explanation—likely because he didn't want to unnecessarily strain their relationship—was far too vague, so she never learned exactly what kind of friction had existed between them and Meili.

However, the complex emotions appearing on her young face seemed to be proof of the hesitation stemming from that past. That was why—

"Please, do not blame yourself too much either."

"「————」"

Meili caught her breath at Rem’s words and stared intently at her. Meeting that gaze head-on without looking away, Meili parted her lips slightly.

"Is it okay to say that? I once tried to kill you too, Big Sister Rem."

"—That is quite surprising, but since I do not remember it..."

"Well, that’s lucky. ...I wonder if it’s okay for me to be lucky."

Meili murmured, her voice less of a whisper and more of a fading breath. She continued to fiddle with her braid, dropping her gaze from Rem to the floor.

"Honestly, I think things are going too well. ...My deeds were overlooked, and thanks to the protection, I was even forgiven by the Kingdom... I wonder if I’ll be hit with a massive 'payback' soon."

"Payback..."

"Just like you get praised for doing good things, you’re supposed to get scolded for doing bad things, right? I’ve been running away from that for a long time."

Whether she felt guilt for being forgiven, Meili’s words were pessimistic and painful. Rem didn't know the deeds that caused her to think this way. She didn't know whether to take the statement about trying to kill Rem as a serious fact or a joke.

Perhaps if she knew the facts in detail, Rem’s thoughts might change. —But she didn't know them now. Because she didn't know, she felt that what she could say now could only be said now.

"I don't mean to compare, but I have similar worries."

"...You do, Big Sister Rem?"

"Yes. ...I don't intend to be so foolish as to think it’s natural to have so much done for me."

What she recalled was her own behavior after waking up without 'memories' in an environment where she had no one to rely on—how coldly she had treated him, Subaru, and how she had pushed his hand away. While the severity of Rem’s situation at the time played a part, there was a limit to that justification. The gifts given by Subaru were by no means unlimited.

"I must pay the price for the arrogance within me. Until that settlement is made, I don't think I even have the right to face him."

"—You’re hard on yourself."

"I wonder. I think it’s only natural, considering it’s the retribution for being harsh to others... to the person who cherished me. But that is my story."

"—?"

While speaking, Rem took a step closer to Meili. After a slight hesitation, she placed her hand on the head of the girl who was looking at her curiously. And then—

"I don't think it’s healthy for a child like you to be terrified of 'payback'... so I will certainly fight against that payback for you."

"—Ah."

At Rem’s haltingly chosen words, Meili let out a faint breath. Then she looked down, keeping Rem’s hand on her head.

"—Big Sister Rem, even without your 'memories,' I think you’re a fine member of this camp."

"...In what sense do you mean that?"

Rem frowned at Meili, who wouldn't look up. —It was then.

"Eek!"

Suddenly, Rem felt a strange sensation under the hand she had placed on Meili’s head, and a small scream escaped her. Looking closely, a tiny creature poked its head out from Meili’s thick blue hair. The moment she recognized it as a scorpion with a deep crimson luster, she instinctively pulled back the arm holding the water pitcher—and the half-full pitcher of water drenched Meili from the head down.

"「Ah.」"

At the disastrous sight, both the perpetrator, Rem, and the victim, Meili, were simultaneously stunned. On top of Meili’s wet head, the tiny scorpion that had been drenched along with her was snapping its pincers in protest. Despite being the cause of the surprise, it certainly had a lot of nerve being angry. Before the shock could even be processed, the kitchen door was flung open with a bang—

"Did I just hear Rem scream?!"

"...What terrible timing."

"Wait, what?! I came out because I was worried and that’s the reaction?! Also, what is this situation?!"

Subaru, who had rushed out upon hearing the scream, went through several stages of shock. At Subaru’s usual boisterousness, Rem wondered for a moment where she should start explaining.

But before that, a laugh rang out. —It was Meili. Drenched from the head down along with the scorpion, she laughed.

"Hahaha, how silly. I don't even have time to be depressed."

"Why are you so refreshed?! Hey, Petra! Towel! Bring a towel!"

"Wah, Meili-chan, you're soaking wet! We have to get you changed right away!"

Petra came running with a towel and began drying Meili’s head, scorpion and all. As Meili let herself be dried, Rem, holding the empty pitcher, bowed her head. She had intended to be kind, but ending up drenching her was the complete opposite of the intended result. However, Meili waved her hand at the repentant Rem.

"Don't worry about it. In exchange, I'll take what you said earlier seriously."

"「————」"

Rem caught a glimpse of Meili’s eyes through the gaps in the towel and widened her own slightly. In the middle of the exchange, Petra moved behind Meili and pushed her shoulders.

"Okay, let's go change. Subaru, Garf-san, there's still some cleanup left, but..."

"We'll take care of that, so don't worry. Just make sure Meili doesn't catch a cold."

"Don't treat me like a child."

Leaving behind that sulky mutter, Meili was led away by Petra. Until the very moment she disappeared around the corner of the hallway, Meili kept waving her hand at Rem. After seeing off the charming girls, Subaru looked at Rem with an "Uh..."

"Ah, is that water for Big Sister? Then, I'll take care of that right away—"

"—No. It is my fault Petra-chan had to leave, so I will help."

"Really? Then, shall we do it together?"

Dodging the hand reaching for the pitcher, Rem offered her help to Subaru. When Subaru, looking a bit surprised, immediately agreed, Rem gave him a slight side-eye.

"...You agree to these kinds of proposals immediately, don't you?"

"Eh? What do you mean?"

"It is nothing. Garf, I will help too, so please make some room in the back."

"That’s a help, but why’s your way of callin' me so casual?"

"Because Big Sister called you that, and it somehow feels right."

Garfiel, who had his hands in the basin at the sink, wrinkled his nose. Sensing Subaru’s wry smile, Rem reflexively started to say something—but stopped. She had just reflected on herself while talking to Meili.

"What’s wrong, Rem? Did something happen to that cute face of yours?"

"Hah?"

"Sorry, just momentum! A-Alright, come on, let's finish this up and bring the water to Big Sister!"

Subaru, trying to cover up his slip of the tongue with momentum, rolled up his sleeves and dashed to Garfiel’s side. Following him with a sigh, Rem admonished herself as strongly as possible. Until the settlement of her own deeds was finished, she didn't even have the right to face this frustration.

"The road ahead is still long. Kachua-san, Priscilla-san."

When she finally felt she had that right, what kind of face would she show him? Without an answer to that, Rem spoke to the objects of her affection and respect within her heart and joined the dishwashing rotation as Petra’s substitute.

—Just when new questions had sprouted, new tasks had been set, and the decision to move the situation forward had been made, things rarely go as planned.

Often, the path to achieving a goal is hindered by stagnation due to the environment or, conversely, by unexpected upheavals. In this case, it was the latter that thwarted Natsuki Subaru’s start.

"—Fua."

With a soft breath, a hand was placed over a wide-opening mouth to hide a yawn. However, it was a glaringly obvious yawn, and one could even see a tear forming at the corner of the person's eye. Subaru often wondered which was considered more polite: an obvious yawn or a suppressed one that brought tears to the eyes. If yawning itself was a breach of etiquette, then the point was moot.

"—It’s just plain tea, but..."

While watching the person with those thoughts, Petra, demonstrating the tea-pouring techniques she had learned from Ram, softly placed a cup of black tea on the table. As the warm, fragrant aroma of the high-quality leaves wafted through the air, the person's yawn was interrupted with an "Oh my."

"It has such a lovely scent. Even though I visited so suddenly, to be treated like this makes me feel a bit guilty, ufu-fu."

"No, it's fine. We were just about to have tea together anyway, so I think the 'timing' was actually very good. Um..."

"—It’s Sakura Element, Emilia-chan."

The woman who introduced herself as Sakura Element—a person associated with the 'Dragon Church'—smiled faintly and took a sip from the tea cup offered to her without hesitation.

Sakura had visited the Royal Villa where the Emilia camp was staying around the boundary between early morning and morning, just when Subaru and the others' heads were starting to work clearly. Subaru and the others were in no position to talk, but the sudden, unannounced visit felt like a surprise attack—

"We also wished to greet you, but Lady Emilia is in a busy position with many things to do. If possible, we would have preferred you to contact us in advance."

His pace disrupted, Otto seemed quite displeased. Though his words were polite, there was a clear air of protest in Otto’s statement. Subaru felt that Otto was quite on edge.

"I guess yesterday's venting wasn't enough... He seems to think that as long as he uses polite 'desu/masu' forms, he's being courteous to the other person."

"I can hear you, you know. That’s 'troublesome,' Natsuki-san."

"Scary! That’s not courtesy, that’s a threat...!"

Otto would snap at his allies without mercy, but his combat-ready stance wasn't aimed at punishing Subaru; it was because they were hosting a person who required caution. Given that it was only the day after the incident, no one would fail to link the fact that the 'Dragon Church'—the center of the current storm—had gone out of its way to visit them to the Royal Selection.

Naturally, Sakura, who had been shown into the drawing room, was also assumed to have a reason that shouldn't be underestimated—

"—Subaru-chan, right? It makes me blush when you stare at me like that."

"Ah, sorry. Sakura-san is a beauty, so was I being a bit rude?"

"My, hitting on me while apologizing. What a naughty boy. I didn't think you were such a smooth talker. I've heard various rumors about you, Subaru-chan."

"Rumors? About me?"

At the unexpected counter-attack, Subaru pointed to himself, and Sakura smiled with a "Yes." She stirred her tea with a teaspoon, took another sip, and let out a sigh with a somewhat sensual gesture. Then, she tilted her head at the silence that had settled over the room.

"...Could it be that something was expected of me just now?"

"No, given the flow of the conversation, wouldn't anyone expect to hear what kind of rumors you've heard about me?"

"Eh? But wouldn't Emilia-chan and the others in the same camp know Subaru-chan much better? At this point, does it really matter what kind of rumors are circulating about him?"

"I see, you say some good things, I suppose. Indeed, Betty and the others know Subaru best. There is no need for concern, in fact."

"That’s right. Having such a wonderful knight makes me very proud."

With Beatrice on his lap and Emilia to his right both giving him their seal of approval, Subaru felt happy, yet he felt somewhat unsatisfied as the talk of his rumors was brushed aside.

Anyway, including Petra, who was standing by the wall, Subaru, Emilia, Beatrice, and Otto were the ones hosting Sakura, who had made the unannounced visit. Currently, Sakura’s impression was that of an elusive woman, but—

"Sakura-san, are you close with Philore? I just became friends with her."

"Yes, I've heard so much about you from Philore-chan that I'm sick of it. She goes around saying 'my Emilia, my Emilia' at every opportunity... Well, I'm her colleague at the church, so I suppose I'm like an older sister to her."

"Philore’s older sister!"

"Well, there's quite a difference in energy between the sisters."

"I'm only like an older sister. That girl was raised as the church's 'hidden child,' cherished and kept away from the world, so you could say she’s like the youngest daughter of the entire church. Ufu-fu."

The temperature of Sakura’s smile remained constant as she spoke. Because of that, it was a mystery how much of her explanation about Philore should be taken seriously. However, the expression that Philore was the church's 'hidden child' and had been raised in secret was intriguing.

"So, can we assume that the reason Philore-san hasn't appeared on the public stage until now is due to the policy of the 'Dragon Church'?"

"That’s right. Well, that became meaningless because Philore-chan just went 'boom' and jumped out on her own."

"So Philore’s rampage was truly outside the church's expectations..."

If one didn't know her, it would be an unbelievable story, but to Subaru, who had actually spoken with Philore, it was a development that didn't feel out of place at all. Even yesterday, she had been forced to stay at the church, but given her temperament, it felt like she would reach her limit and jump out on her own at any moment.

"Actually, she did jump out. That’s why I’ve come to visit Emilia-chan and the others today."

"...Eh?! She jumped out—is that today’s story?!"

"Yes, it happened this morning. Even though I had told her all about today’s business yesterday, she really is a handful..."

"Wait, wait, wait, is it okay to be drinking tea and treating her like a 'handful'?!"

Even if it hadn't been officially announced, there was no doubt that Philore was in a position where she had suddenly climbed the stairs to becoming a key figure in the Kingdom. It was questionable for her guardian to be relaxing here while she was acting on her own.

As Subaru and the others panicked, Sakura laughed as if it were someone else's problem.

"Please rest assured. You see, we know exactly where Philore-chan went. To be precise, it’s to her friend Emilia-chan’s place."

"Ah, I see, so that’s it. To my place... she hasn't come?!" "She hasn't, right?!"

The information, which they thought would be reassuring, failed to be so, and the panic continued. From Sakura’s confident tone, there might have been a note left by Philore stating her destination, but no one in the camp had seen her. Naturally, neither Petra nor Otto knew of her whereabouts.

"Beako doesn't know either, right? You've been with me ever since we woke up today."

"I don't, in fact. I woke up early with Subaru, brushed my teeth with Subaru, did 'Radio Calisthenics' with Subaru, and then had breakfast with Subaru, I suppose. During that time, Betty hasn't seen that noisy girl either."

"W-What should we do? If something happened to Philore..."

Putting their heads together, Subaru and the others worried deeply about the whereabouts of the missing Philore. First, they were surprised by her sudden appearance, and now they were shocked by her sudden disappearance. Philore was like a human-shaped storm.

Beside the flustered Subaru and the others, Otto let out a small sigh.

"Hey, what is it, Otto... Ha! Don't tell me you're thinking it would be easier if she just blew away since she's a source of trouble..."

"Otto, that’s being far too much like Roswaal, no matter how you look at it, I suppose..."

"Please stop the character assassination. Beatrice-chan, don't look at me with those eyes. ...Just to confirm, was Philore-san wearing the nun's habit of the 'Dragon Church'?"

With a vein popping on his forehead at the gaze of the hugging Subaru and Beatrice, Otto confirmed Philore’s attire with Sakura. When Sakura nodded with a "Of course," Otto continued.

"Then there’s no need to worry. Unless something extraordinary happens, a woman dressed as a nun of the 'Dragon Church' won't get caught up in trouble on the street."

"Is that so? Petra-chan, really?"

"Yes, I think Otto-san is right. If someone from the church was in trouble, anyone nearby would definitely lend a hand."

At Otto and Petra’s certainty, which seemed only natural to them, Subaru and Emilia felt like the scales had fallen from their eyes.

"But that’s only if she’s in trouble on the street, right? What if it’s like... the evil clutches of some wicked person with malicious intent? Wouldn't that be a problem?"

"What is this 'wicked person with malicious intent'...? Given Sakura-san’s attitude, there’s likely no need to worry about that either. In the first place, the reason she is here is—"

"—Otto-chan, your mind works fast, doesn't it? Exactly, I’m here to intercept her."

Sakura snatched away the conclusion Otto was about to state, confirming that she had reached it, and spoke the reason for her visit to the Royal Villa.

Her way of speaking was slightly lacking in explanation, but when combined with the actual Philore’s headlong nature, the answer came to Subaru as well, following Otto.

"In other words, Philore said she was going to Emilia-tan’s place, but since she didn't know the exact location, she’s heading here while asking around..."

"And you, acting as her older sister, are drinking tea here with Betty and the others ahead of Philore, who will arrive eventually, I suppose."

"Clap, clap, clap. Correct. The children in Emilia-chan’s camp are very excellent."

Sakura clapped lightly in praise, but Subaru and the others weren't so naive as to take the compliment at face value. Besides, even with the kindness shown to members of the 'Dragon Church' and Philore’s drive, they couldn't be absolutely certain she was safe.

Emilia seemed to share the same concern, as she frowned with her well-shaped eyebrows.

"Sakura-san is very confident, but I'm worried about Philore. I think I'll go take a look around—"

"—Emilia-sama, excuse me. You have a guest."

Rem’s voice, knocking on the drawing room door, interrupted Emilia’s concern. Everyone’s gaze instinctively turned toward the door. "A guest?" Emilia tilted her head.

Immediately after, the door was pushed open with a bang—

"—It’s terrible, Emilia! Help your friend!"

"Philore?!"

Rushing into the drawing room before a wide-eyed Emilia was indeed Philore, the center of the conversation. With her red eyes brimming with tears, she ran toward Emilia and dove headfirst into her chest without slowing down. The force was practically a headbutt, but Emilia caught and held the charging Philore without difficulty.

"Whoa, you startled me. Are you okay, Philore? You aren't hurt?"

"Yes, yes, I'm fine... No, that’s not it! I'm in tatters! Look, not my body, but my heart is in tatters!"

"Oh dear, that’s terrible... Where should I look?"

"I don't know either, so just hold me tight!"

"Okay! Tight hug!"

The moment she entered, Philore dyed the space in her own colors with incredible momentum. Emilia’s gallantry in responding to her impulsive words without hesitation shone through. Watching the two of them hug, Petra came to Subaru’s side and pulled on the sleeve of his tracksuit.

"...Is that the rumored 'Saint'?"

"That’s the rumored 'Saint.' How is she? How different is she from your image?"

"Quite different, maybe... Ah, but I think it’s fine. 'Saints' come in all types!"

"Is it the era of diversity for 'Saints' too...? It doesn't quite click with me."

Even for Petra, who was good at listening and speaking, she couldn't quite put that overwhelming feeling into words. Anyway, the worst-case scenario of Philore wandering the capital alone and failing to reach the Royal Villa had been avoided for now.

"Now, the question is Philore’s purpose for asking for help..."

"For now, I don't have a good feeling about it, I suppose."

Subaru was in complete agreement with Beatrice’s assessment. Ignoring Subaru and the others, Emilia soothed Philore, who was gradually calming down in her arms, with a gentle voice.

"So, can you tell me what happened? What do you mean by 'help'?"

"The thing is, the thing is... something terrible has happened, Emilia."

"Terrible... Gulp."

At Philore’s dramatic way of speaking, Emilia swallowed audibly. Looking closely at Emilia, Philore continued.

It was—

"—It seems I have to participate in the Royal Selection as a candidate!"

With a voice cracking with tears, Philore lamented the tragic fate that had been thrust upon her. Hearing this, Emilia’s amethyst eyes widened, Otto put his hand to his forehead, Petra bit her lip, and Subaru and Beatrice looked at each other.

"Just as I thought..." "The bad feeling hit the mark, in fact."

"What on earth should I do... Geh! Sakura?!"

Beside Subaru and the others, who had successfully predicted the unwelcome future, Sakura, whose presence Philore hadn't noticed because her back was to the entrance, waved at her. At the unexpected encounter with her associate, Philore, who had brought the storm with her, opened her mouth so wide her jaw looked ready to unhinge. —Her beauty was completely wasted.