Master of illusions - Natsuki Subaru

The questioning from the villagers only relented after a heartfelt, tear-stained moment between Emilia and Subaru. The two of them clung to each other so tightly that the sight alone was enough to make some turn away out of respect. Slowly, the entire crowd realized they were intruding on something too delicate to disturb. Murmurs faded, children were gently pulled away—some reluctantly, their curious eyes still peeking back—and eventually, only one villager remained.

Ludwig.

The gruff man stood with his arms crossed, his expression a strange mixture of relief and nostalgia.

"I'm glad yer safe, kid," he said at last, his tone warm in a way Subaru had rarely heard from him.

Subaru blinked, tilting his head as though he hadn't heard right. "Did I hear that correctly? Did Ludwig the Unshakeable just admit he was glad to see me alive?" His mock-shock earned him a few chuckles from nearby stragglers before they left, leaving the three alone.

He sat up clumsily, snow crunching beneath him, Emilia still nestled in his lap. She hadn't let go. At first her head had rested lightly against his, but now it had shifted, her cheek brushing his shoulder. He tapped her gently on the arm—half expecting her to recoil—but instead, she moved just enough to turn her face toward Ludwig.

The movement left them so close their cheeks nearly touched, her breath warm against his lips.

"M-Mili?" Subaru's words stumbled out, his pulse quickening. He hadn't expected this level of closeness—not now, maybe not ever.

"Yes?" she asked softly, violet eyes flicking to his. The tiny distance between their mouths—barely an inch—set Subaru's heart into a panicked drumbeat. He wanted to speak, to say something, anything, but all he could do was stare into those impossibly beautiful eyes.

Ludwig's voice cut through the air like a bell. "So, what are ya two lovebirds plannin' now?"

Subaru jerked his head toward him, glaring as though the older man had committed a crime. Beside him, Emilia suddenly realized just how close she'd been. Her face flushed bright pink as the thought crossed her mind—how dangerously close she had come to… well, to something she wasn't ready to admit aloud. Her heart thudded wildly, and she turned her head away, her hands gripping Subaru's chest and back as if to anchor herself.

"Haven't… thought that far," Subaru muttered, his gaze lowering. Truth was, he wanted to return to the village, to show everyone more of the girl he adored. But the distance to her home wasn't small, if she left and returned without him reapplying the illusion... he knew his ability needed more honing before he could make that dream a reality.

"Maybe…" Emilia's voice trembled, but she steadied it, lifting her gaze to him again, "maybe you can stay with me? From now on?"

Her words were innocent, but the vulnerability behind them was unmistakable. Recently, she'd grown so used to him being beside her that the idea of waking up alone—even once—felt unbearable. Selfish, maybe, but she couldn't help it.

Subaru's eyes widened. "I didn't even have to ask—it's like you read my mind!" He grinned in theatrical wonder, his usual dramatic tone returning.

"I can't read minds," she said earnestly, shaking her head in confusion. "Only puck can but only a little."

"Then I guess I lost my only employee," Ludwig chimed in with mock tears, wiping at his face as if he'd just witnessed his son moving out. Subaru's antics had rubbed off on him far more than he'd ever admit. Beneath the jest, though, was a deep sadness—a man who felt like he was saying goodbye again, after already losing too much.

Subaru caught the shift in his expression. For a moment, he dropped his act and smiled softly. "Don't mourn me like I'm dead!" he declared, puffing up in exaggerated outrage. "It's not like I'm running off with my ice princess to never be seen again—"

"I don't recall agreeing to be yours," Emilia interjected with a little pout, her face still faintly red.

"Never mind that!" Subaru flailed before quickly regaining his grin. "Anyway, I'll come by often… just as soon as I finish something important first." His eyes, filled with raw determination, made Ludwig pause. It wasn't the nervous, uncertain boy he'd first met. This was someone growing into his resolve, step by step.

"Just make sure ya visit often," Ludwig said sternly, like a father laying down house rules he expected to be followed.

Emilia turned to Subaru, her amethyst eyes still glistening from the tears she'd shed earlier. "We'll come every other day, won't we, Subaru?" Her tone carried a hopeful lilt, but the way her lips trembled gave away how much she wanted it.

"Absolutely!" Subaru answered without a moment's hesitation.

Ludwig exhaled heavily, shaking his head but smiling all the same. "Well, I know ya didn't plan to stay the night. Best get movin' before dark." He waved them off with a firm shooing gesture, though his smile lingered long after they'd started walking away.

Once the village was safely behind them, a small puff of light burst from Emilia's hair—Puck at last emerging from his hiding place. He floated before them, his little arms crossed.

"You know, Subaru… it feels like all I've done lately is thank you."

Subaru smirked smugly. "That's fine. You can keep doing it. My ego's got plenty of room."

"You were very sly, getting an extended stay approved while I was… otherwise occupied." Puck's eyes narrowed knowingly.

"I—I'm sorry, Puck! I should've asked you first!" Emilia blurted, bowing her head frantically.

"…But I'll allow it," Puck added at last.

"Really?!" Emilia asked, her voice brimming with relief as she clasped her fists together.

"Really?" Subaru echoed, blinking skeptically. He'd braced for a lecture or even the boot the moment they left the village, not this.

"Yeah," Puck said with a sigh. Then he raised a tiny paw, pointing sternly. "But no funny business!"

Subaru threw up his arms. "I'm already sleeping on the floor! I don't know what else you want from me!"

Emilia tilted her head, touching her lips thoughtfully with one slender finger. "I still don't understand why you insist. The bed is big enough for both of us."

"I—uh—it's just… if I did, my heart might explode from happiness," Subaru admitted with a groan, finally surrendering the truth. With Puck around, there was no point lying.

Emilia gave him a look of mock disapproval, shaking her head. "You say the silliest things sometimes." But the soft smile tugging at her lips betrayed her. Then she felt it—a little gust brushing the tips of her ears. She couldn't feel the difference, but she knew the illusion was gone.

"Why did you undo it?" she whispered.

"Because I like the real Mili," he said simply, grinning as he winked. "She's prettier that way."

Her chest tightened, warmth flooding her face. Did he really mean that? Her logical side argued it must be because he was from another world, unburdened by the prejudice hers carried. But logic couldn't stop the fluttering in her heart every time he called her beautiful, or princess, or just her.

"Dummy…" she murmured softly, sticking out her tongue in embarrassed defiance.

By the time their quiet chatter faded, the two had reached the cabin. The chill of night had crept in, but the fire inside cast the room in a soft, amber glow. After finishing their daily tasks and another round of Subaru's training, exhaustion weighed heavily on them both.

Subaru shed his tracksuit, leaving only a plain black t-shirt, and slipped under the covers. Across him, Emilia rested gracefully at the edge of her bed, her silver hair gleaming in the firelight.

She caught his gaze, her lips curving playfully. "Goodnight, my knight."

He grinned, heart skipping at the tease. "Goodnight, my queen."

0-------0

"Daddy, daddy! Wake up!"

The cheerful voice jolted Subaru awake. He blinked, disoriented, his eyes meeting a ceiling far grander than the one he'd drifted off under. The air smelled faintly of roses and old wood polish.

Gold filigree adorned the walls, and a deep red carpet stretched out beneath a massive king-sized bed. He tried to get up halfway, groggy—and froze.

A young girl sat on his chest, giggling as she leaned forward. She had messy hair the same dark shade as his own, but her eyes—those vivid purple eyes—and the delicate taper of her elven ears made his heart stop.

"Wha—? Who are you calling Daddy?" he asked, voice rough with disbelief.

Her bright smile faltered, a small frown pulling at her lips. "Daddy… you're acting weird." She pouted, her face so full of Emilia's warmth it almost hurt to look at.

Subaru's breath hitched. She wasn't some illusion—she felt real. The way her little hands pressed against his chest, the childish tilt of her head, the innocent sparkle in her eyes. He swallowed, fear and awe tangling inside him.

"Tell me… who's your mom?" His voice trembled. He already suspected, but he needed to hear it, needed confirmation.

"Mama is Mama!" she said with an airy giggle, as though the answer was obvious. That smile… gods, that smile was Emilia's.

Before he could say more, the door slammed open.

"Betty wishes her contractor and Maia wouldn't make so much noise so early in the morning, I suppose."

Another child stepped in. Well—no, not quite a child. This one carried herself with an aura that seemed ancient despite the frills of her pink dress. The ornate fabric, trimmed in white, fell gracefully over striped stockings of purple and pink. A tiny crown glimmered atop her cream-blonde drills tipped with rose. And her eyes—Subaru's breath caught at the sight of them. Blue irises flecked with pink butterflies, watching him with quiet judgment.

"Maia…" Subaru repeated, turning back to the girl still perched on him. She nodded happily, oblivious to the way his heart threatened to burst.

Betty crossed her arms, tapping a small foot. "What is Subaru on about today, I suppose?"

He turned his gaze on her, dead serious, before his usual goofy grin slipped back into place. "…Sorry, but who are you two?"

The silence that followed was heavy. Maia tilted her head in confusion. Betty, however, only narrowed her eyes, studying him like a puzzle.

"Maybe…" She opened her mouth, speaking a phrase he couldn't hear. The words slipped from her lips, but they were muffled, blurred, as if the world itself had erased them before they reached him. All he caught were fragments—delayed… memories… you…—before agony exploded behind his eyes.

The searing pain struck like a dagger, forcing him to clutch his head. The sensation was horrifyingly familiar—the same tearing ache from when he'd tried to explain the strings of fate to Emilia and Puck.

"Daddy!"

"Subaru!"

Their voices overlapped, frantic. He wanted to answer, but the world tilted violently, his vision fracturing as though he were unraveling piece by piece.

Not again… please, not again.

Then—

"Subaru!"

Her voice, clear as silver bells, pierced the agony. And suddenly, warmth pressed against his lips. Soft. Gentle. It wasn't passion—it was love. Pure, unconditional love. The kiss grounded him, pulling him back from the edge of nothingness. His body steadied, though the lingering ache reminded him this was only a warning.

His eyes fluttered open, and the first thing he saw was her. Emilia. Pulling back slowly, a faint blush dusting her cheeks.

He touched his lips, stunned. "Did… did Mili just steal my first kiss?"

She pouted slightly, more confused than flustered. "Subaru… we've kissed plenty of times. You don't have to tease me so much."

His eyes widened. "Huh?!" His voice cracked so loudly both Maia and Betty jumped.

Emilia stood before him, dressed in a gown so breathtaking he almost forgot how to breathe. White and silver shimmered across the fabric like fresh snow at dawn, embroidered violet curling along the bodice like delicate vines. Golden seams traced her silhouette, and the way the skirt flowed around her made her seem every bit the queen he already saw her as.

"I think there's something wrong with Daddy," Maia giggled, though her eyes carried the same concern Emilia's did.

"Subaru?" Emilia leaned closer, worry etched across her face. "Are you alright?"

"I… I think I came from the past," he admitted, sitting heavily on the edge of the massive bed. His gaze dropped to the carpet, then to the unfamiliar clothes he wore. "The last thing I remember… was the day we went to the village without your hood. The first time." His throat tightened. "Then suddenly… this."

"Subaru…" Emilia whispered softly, her hand reaching toward him. "That was four years ago."

The words sank into him like knives. This time, there was no warning—only consequence. Pain flared violently as a white rope appeared in the corner of his vision, unraveling strand by strand.

"Too much," a voice echoed. Not his voice—yet it was. The same voice he'd lived with for seventeen years. "That's enough for now."

The world shattered.

"Subaru… Subaru!"

The call pulled him back, and this time he woke to the familiar cabin ceiling. Emilia hovered over him, panic bright in her eyes, the firelight painting her features in a soft orange glow.

Right. He was here. With her. Safe—for now.

"I'm okay, Mili. It was just a ba—" He stopped himself, shaking his head. "Just a dream."

But that wasn't the truth. It hadn't felt like a dream at all. It felt lived. Every detail, every sound, even the kiss—especially the kiss—lingered as vividly as reality. He swallowed hard, his chest tight with questions he didn't dare voice.

Emilia's worry didn't fade. She'd been watching him closer since he started using that strange power of his, noticing how his dreams grew worse and worse. She didn't like how he brushed it off every time, hated the thought that whatever this was might be hurting him more than he'd admit.

She reached for his hand, squeezing gently, silently telling him: You don't have to face it alone.

It had been 4 days since Subaru brought a human Emilia to the village. They returned to the village, but something felt… off. The air seemed heavier, conversations quieter, eyes sharper. Subaru noticed the way villagers glanced at him as though he carried a sign on his forehead. A few approached hesitantly, whispering accusations he couldn't quite make out, their voices carrying tones of unease.

"What… what did I do this time?" Subaru thought, forcing a shaky grin, though his chest tightened with dread. Emilia stayed close beside him, her silver hair catching the sunlight, her violet eyes full of quiet confusion as she listened to the murmurs. She didn't understand any of it either, but she knew enough to recognize the unease spreading like frost among the villagers.

That was when a knight stepped forward from the crowd, nameless and stern, clad in polished armor that gleamed even in the muted winter light.

"You are Mister Pleiades, yes?" the knight asked, his voice firm but not unkind.

Subaru froze. The way the knight spoke his name made something cold slither down his spine. Great. Did I accidentally trip some political landmine again? What now, a death penalty for smiling too wide at a noble's daughter? He swallowed hard, forcing his lips into what he hoped was a confident smile.

"Y-Yeah, that's me," he answered, his voice betraying the unease bubbling under the surface.

The knight gave a formal bow. "If you would, please follow me."

Unsure of what else to do—and knowing resistance would just make things worse—Subaru exchanged a brief glance with Emilia before following. His steps felt heavier with each pace, the eyes of the villagers burning against his back. The knight led them to one of Subaru's favorite restaurants in the village, though now it looked nothing like the cozy refuge he knew. Tables had been shifted so that one sat prominently at the center, commanding attention.

Subaru's stomach dropped. Ah, this smells like trouble.

A calm, confident voice cut through the low murmur of the room.

"You're a rather plain man, aren't you?"

Subaru's eyes darted toward the source. A young knight with striking purple hair sat at the center table, his uniform pristine, not a speck of dust daring to cling to him. The man radiated refinement, his posture so composed it made Subaru feel like a kid tracking mud into a palace. His expression carried a faint, practiced smile—but Subaru didn't need a crystal ball to sense the arrogance lurking beneath it.

Where have I seen that face before… Subaru squinted. Then it hit him.

"You're… Joshua's brother, aren't you?" he asked cautiously, his eyes narrowing.

The knight's smile deepened slightly, as if pleased to be recognized. "Ah, yes. You've met my younger brother already. My name is Julius Juukulius." He rose gracefully and extended a hand across the table, the gesture smooth and inviting.

Subaru crossed his arms instead of accepting it, plastering on a grin that barely disguised his distrust. "Sorry, but I'm a little cautious around white-knight types. You never know what they might be hiding, y'know?"

His words were light, but the underlying barb was sharp. Emilia cast him a quick, warning glance, but Julius merely allowed the comment to slide off him like water on glass.

"You're quite the odd one," Julius replied, still smiling, though Subaru could feel the faint edge of irritation behind it. His eyes shifted toward Emilia. "And you, miss? May I have the honor of your name?"

Emilia blinked, then offered a polite smile, bowing her head slightly. "My name is Emilia. Just… Emilia. It's a pleasure to meet you, Julius." She extended her hand gracefully.

Subaru muttered under his breath, "Didn't know you took secret etiquette classes…"

But before he could tease further, Julius surprised them both. With practiced ease, he bent to one knee and took Emilia's hand—not to shake it, but to press a light kiss upon the back.

"It is my great pleasure to be acquainted with you as well, Lady Emilia." His voice was smooth, his movements elegant, the kind of thing ripped straight from the pages of a storybook.

Subaru's blood boiled instantly. Oh, hell no. Don't just casually swoop in with your knight-in-shining-armor routine, buddy. That's MY girl you're dazzling. His scowl didn't go unnoticed—Julius glanced up briefly, eyes glinting with quiet amusement, as if he enjoyed stoking Subaru's annoyance.

"I presume you two are together?" Julius asked innocently, raising a brow.

"Yeah!" Subaru blurted, throwing an arm around Emilia's shoulders with theatrical bravado. "Mili and I are basically already married, so don't get any funny ideas about stealing away my super cute, totally-human, definitely-not-an-elf partner!"

Emilia's eyes widened in panic. She tugged at his ears nervously, the blush blooming across her cheeks betraying her. "Don't make such misunderstandings with someone we just met!"

"Owowow!" Subaru yelped as she pinched his ear in retaliation, his protests echoing across the hall.

Julius chuckled softly, though it sounded more polite than genuine. "I must admit, your interactions are… rather entertaining." He straightened in his seat, his tone shifting to something sharper. "But perhaps we should turn to the reason for our visit."

Emilia released Subaru's ear, and together they settled across from Julius, sitting shoulder to shoulder. The playful air faded as Julius's expression hardened, his eyes narrowing.

"I was sent here," he began slowly, "to investigate the reported sighting of a dragon, witch, and her warlock."

The words landed like a blade on the table. Emilia stiffened instantly, her knuckles tightening against her lap. Subaru felt the blood drain from his face.

Julius leaned forward slightly, his violet eyes glinting. "So. You know something, then?"

Subaru's pulse pounded in his ears. He could practically feel Emilia's gaze dart toward him, desperate, afraid, begging him not to say something that would only make things worse. Her honesty was her greatest strength—but also the worst liability here. She would rather lose her magic than speak a single falsehood. Which meant it was up to him.

"Well, uhh—" He rubbed the back of his neck with forced sheepishness, summoning every ounce of his "clueless clown" act. Then he looked Julius dead in the eye. "Emilia here… she's probably the reason those witch rumors started."

Beside him, Emilia snapped her head toward him in shock, her amethyst eyes wide. They screamed silently: Are you sure?

Subaru didn't look back at her. His eyes, though still playful on the surface, held a rare firmness. Trust me, Mili.

"Well, people caught glimpses of my beautiful ice princess over here"—Subaru jerked his thumb toward Emilia, flashing a grin that didn't quite reach his eyes—"and they jumped to the wild conclusion that she was the Witch of Envy or something equally ridiculous."

Julius's gaze drifted between the two, his expression thoughtful, almost troubled. "I see… to be fair, I can understand why some might confuse her for the Witch. She does bear a striking resemblance…" His eyes softened just a fraction before narrowing again. "But tell me—what of the rumors about a warlock and a dragon?"

Subaru's smile faltered. He knew he couldn't brush this one off as easily. His pulse quickened, yet he forced a laugh, slipping into the role he knew best—lying through his teeth."Warlock? Dragon? Haven't heard a thing. Honestly, the only whispers we've caught were about the Witch nonsense, and we both know that's baseless. I mean—come on—who could hide a dragon in a village like this, anyway?"

Julius tilted his head, studying him in silence for a long moment before finally inclining it in a small bow. "I see… Then I must apologize for taking up your time, Sir Pleiades—Miss Emilia."

"It's alright, Julius," Emilia replied quickly, her voice warm, her smile genuine. "You were only concerned for the villagers, and that means a lot."

At her words, Julius flinched inwardly. Concern for the villagers… if only that were true. He hadn't been sent here for them, but to quietly check on the welfare of a certain business partner. Were it not for his temporary post as Anastasia's knight, he might not have heard of the matter so swiftly. Whether that was good or bad remained unclear.

"Your praise is misplaced," he said at last, straightening. "It is our lady you should thank for sending us here."

Emilia's smile only brightened. "Then please, give her our thanks."

"Of course. It has been… good meeting you both. We'll take our leave now."

At Julius's signal, every patron in the restaurant rose at once. Subaru blinked, startled, as he realized for the first time that all of them wore the same white hoods.

"Wha—?!" Subaru blurted, nearly choking on his own breath. Julius extended his hand once more, his composure unshaken.

Subaru glanced at the hand like it might bite him. His stomach twisted—he looked ready to throw up—but with great reluctance, he forced himself to take it, pasting on a strained smile. "Yeah… see you next time…"

Emilia, noticing his effort, gave him a quiet, approving smile. He hadn't sabotaged himself—at least not yet. Placing a hand lightly over her chest, she turned to Julius. "I do hope we meet again. Thank you, Julius, for coming."

With silent precision, the knights filed out behind him, their white hoods vanishing into the fading light. Subaru watched them go, a shiver running down his spine. Life had become far too interesting these past few weeks—more than in all of his seventeen years combined.

Later, snowflakes clung to Subaru's hair as he laughed, dodging a playful handful of snow from a giggling child. Emilia knelt nearby, her hood slipping down her back, no longer a burden she had to fear. Together, the two played with the children in the snow, as had quietly become tradition.

The sun dipped lower, painting the village in soft gold. Subaru glanced at the sky, knowing Puck would soon vanish back into his crystal. They would have to leave early today.

"Are you and Big Sis coming back to play next time too?" a brown-haired girl called, her voice sweet and certain. A fake dandelion peeked from her hair, matching the golden hue of her eyes. Tina—eldest among the village children, already carrying herself like a little leader—watched them expectantly.

"Big Bro, you'll come back soon, right?" another voice piped up. It was Oscar, short for his age yet brimming with bravado. His messy navy hair stuck out in all directions, his blue eyes shining with the stubborn dream of becoming a knight of Lugunica. Whenever Subaru would tease him about his height he would always say "Don't worry, I'm still growing!" defensively, puffing out his chest.

Soon, a chorus of voices rose as more children crowded around Subaru, tugging at his sleeves, peppering him with pleas.

"Hey—hey, don't rub your nose on me!" Subaru protested, squirming as a child smeared their runny nose against his coat. His words fell on deaf ears.

He felt a gentle tug on his shirt. Looking down, he found Lucas—quiet, deep-brown eyes steady despite his silence. Subaru knew this boy carried more energy than he let on.

"Yeah, we'll be back soon," Subaru said softly, glancing toward Emilia. "Won't we, Mili?"

"O-oh—yes, of course we will!" Emilia stammered, caught off guard. Her cheeks pinked as she returned the children's hopeful gazes with a smile.

"Bye!!" the children shouted in unison, their voices ringing out even as Subaru and Emilia disappeared into the trees.

Subaru waved with exaggerated vigor, arm flailing, while Emilia's more delicate wave betrayed her lingering shyness. Yet behind her timid smile lay something tender—these children saw her as a person, not a shadow of the Witch.

As the forest path stretched before them, Subaru broke the silence. "Man, those kids are a real handful."

Emilia giggled softly. "They really do like you."

"If it means less laundry duty for me, I'd honestly prefer if they liked me a little less!" Subaru groaned.

Emilia laughed again, her voice light and warm—until a sudden rustling in the distance stole it away.

Without warning, a massive mabeast crashed through the undergrowth. The ground shook beneath its weight. It was ape-like, its body cloaked in long strands of silver hair that shimmered in the fading light. Its bare chest and limbs revealed rough brown skin, tusks jutting from its snarling jaws. A single horn gleamed menacingly from its forehead, its yellow eyes locking onto them with predatory hunger.

Emilia froze. Her breath caught in her throat. That face, that horn—it was the same kind of creature she had once obliterated with the full, terrifying force of her ice magic. Panic surged. If she lost control again, Subaru could be the one hurt.

Subaru's heart pounded. He couldn't just stand there. He was the one who could afford to die—if it came to that. He'd rather risk countless retries than let her suffer. No knights. No backup. Just him. He had to be her shield.

"Over here, you big oaf!" he shouted, drawing the beast's attention with reckless bravado.

It worked—but only for a moment. The mabeast lunged with terrifying speed, its massive arm slamming him against a tree. Pain exploded through his body. His vision blurred, consciousness slipping. Somewhere distant, he heard Emilia scream his name.

She fought, icy lances darting through the air, her movements swift and desperate. But Subaru could tell—she was holding back. She couldn't risk losing herself again. Not with him so close.

"Damn it… I'm too damn weak," Subaru gasped, blood in his mouth. Then a thought cut through the haze—what Puck and Emilia had once told him. A dragon, strong enough to melt the snow. Could he…?

His trembling hand stretched out. "LET HER GO!"

Magic flared, but instead of a mighty dragon, the snow shimmered into the form of an oversized crocodile, fat and awkward.

The beast snarled, dropping Emilia as it turned to crush the new threat. Yet the creature fizzled out almost as quickly as it came, leaving nothing but Subaru collapsing onto the ground, the world fading to black.

"No—get away from him!" Emilia cried, her voice breaking as the mabeast inched closer to Subaru's unconscious body. Panic gripped her chest, her heart hammering so loud she could barely hear her own words. She reached out with trembling hands, ready to unleash her magic—when she felt a large, calloused hand gently pat her head.

"Don't worry, little miss. We'll take it from here," came a deep, confident voice.

She spun around to see a towering wolfman, his fur dusted with snow, emerald eyes burning with assurance. Before she could reply, the sound of boots crunching through the snow filled the air. A knight and three small catlike demi-humans darted past her, moving with practiced precision.

"Al Clarista!" Julius's voice rang out as he drew his sword, which burst into radiant rainbow light.

The mabeast roared, swinging its massive arm, but Julius slipped past the crude strike with elegance. His blade cut through the air, severing the creature's arm in a single, gleaming arc.

"GRAAAAHHH!" The beast howled, blood spraying and staining the white snow crimson.

It lurched forward again, furious, but the trio of demi-humans wouldn't allow it. "AAA!" they shouted in unison, unleashing beams of compressed mana that struck the creature's torso, chest, and head in rapid succession.

The beast staggered, screeching in agony, before the wolfman stepped into the fray. With one swift motion, he raised his greatsword high and brought it down, driving the steel deep into the monster's skull. The sickening crack echoed through the clearing—and then it was still.

Emilia froze, staring wide-eyed. She had been struggling so desperately against it, holding herself back for Subaru's sake. And here these strangers had felled the beast as if it were nothing. The realization both awed and unsettled her.

Then, like an icy dagger to her heart, she remembered Subaru.

She scrambled back to his side, nearly tripping in the snow. His body lay limp, bruised badly from the impact, and her breath caught as she reached for him. Sliding her hands over his injuries, she began weaving healing magic, whispering prayers under her breath.

"Don't worry, Mimi will help too!" a bright, childlike voice chirped.

Emilia glanced up to see one of the cat demi-humans, twin tails swishing as she knelt beside her. The girl's wide smile radiated warmth, and together they poured their mana into Subaru.

"Thank you," Emilia murmured, her voice tight with worry.

"Is our little bro gonna be alright?" The wolfman loomed over them, his towering form casting a long shadow. His eyes flicked from Subaru to Emilia. "That was some pretty unusual magic he used back there."

"The bleeding's stopped…" Emilia whispered, relief softening her features.

Julius, who had been watching quietly, finally stepped closer. His gaze lingered on Emilia—now with her hood pulled up once more, something that struck him as peculiar.

"You have my thanks. But tell me… why are you still here? I was sure you'd already left."

"Forgive the deception. It was necessary. We wanted to see if anyone might try to flee—or act rashly—knowing we were near." His eyes shifted meaningfully toward Subaru. "It's fortunate we stayed."

Emilia's hands tightened over Subaru's chest. She looked at the four demi-humans now standing nearby, their presence unfamiliar. "I… don't recognize them."

"My apologies," Julius said smoothly, motioning toward each of them in turn. "They are mercenaries in the service of our lady. Allow me to introduce Ricardo, Mimi, Hetaro, and Tivey."

"Nice to meet ya, little miss!" Ricardo, the wolfman, flashed a toothy grin, his long tail swishing behind him.

"Do you have any snacks Sis?" Mimi piped up with innocent excitement, her bright eyes glittering with expectation.

"I—I hope we get along," Hetaro muttered shyly, his droopy eyes betraying both nerves and kindness.

"I've heard some things about you," Tivey said calmly, adjusting the monocle perched over his eye.

Emilia managed a small, polite smile. "It's nice to meet fellow demi-humans."

"Fellow?" Julius's brows knit together. "I thought you were human."

The words froze the air around her. Emilia realized instantly the slip she'd made. Panic fluttered in her chest. She couldn't lie—it simply wasn't in her nature. With a trembling sigh, she reached up and pulled down her hood.

The reaction was immediate. All of them flinched, eyes widening at the sight of her pointed elven ears. Combined with her silver hair and violet eyes, the resemblance to the Witch of Envy was undeniable.

"Please—don't hurt Subaru!" Emilia's voice broke, her hands clenching into fists as she shielded his body. Tears stung her eyes. "He wanted to keep it a secret, but he's a good boy. Please believe me!"

Julius stared at her, stunned. Ricardo suddenly burst into laughter, clutching his stomach. Emilia blinked in confusion.

"You caring about him before yourself… that tells us all we need to know," Julius said softly, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

"Huh?" Emilia gasped, tears trembling on her lashes.

Ricardo wiped his eyes, still chuckling. "You probably get judged before people even know you, huh?"

"Yes, but—" Emilia started.

"In Kararagi, most of us are demi-humans anyway," Tivey said evenly, his expression calm. "Though… not everyone will react as kindly."

"Juli already told us about you!" Mimi added cheerfully, tail swishing.

Emilia's throat tightened. She had braced herself for disgust, for rejection. People had recoiled from her so many times before—it was only natural she'd expect the same now. Yet instead of scorn, there was acceptance.

She closed her eyes, feeling the weight of their gazes. Could knowing her truly change how people saw her?

A faint stir drew her attention. Subaru shifted against the snow, a faint groan escaping his lips.

"We'll need to ask you a few questions," Julius said, his tone more serious now. "No more lies."

Emilia swallowed, hesitating. She wasn't proud of Subaru's lies, but if he were awake, he could at least shield her from the worst of the truth. Still, she nodded. "A-alright."

Ricardo, ever blunt, cut in before Julius could continue. "The rumors—they're about you two, aren't they?"

Emilia's heart ached. She looked down at Subaru's pale face, then back up. "Yes. Subaru… he's the one who somehow summoned the dragon."

"Do you know how he did it?" Tivey pressed, curiosity sharpening his tone.

Emilia shook her head, her silver hair brushing her cheeks. "No… you'd have to ask him. He keeps a lot from me." Her voice softened as she looked down again. Gently, she shifted him, cradling his head in her lap. Her fingers brushed through his dark hair, her chest aching. Maybe it would be safer for him if they weren't together anymore. He had suffered so much because of her…

Ricardo gave a low whistle. Julius shot him a disapproving glance, but said nothing.

"Since our questions mostly concern him, we should wait until he wakes," Julius decided. "Do you have a place we can rest?"

"I do… but it's small. I'm sorry." Emilia's eyes lowered apologetically as her fingers continued to comb tenderly through Subaru's hair.

"Let's go!" Mimi suddenly declared, darting off in a random direction.

"Mimi—wait!" Tivey chased after her, exasperated.

"I'd like to get out of the cold as soon as possible," Hetaro muttered, shivering and rubbing his arms for warmth.

With a soft sigh, Emilia adjusted Subaru in her arms, lifting him carefully in a princess carry. Ricardo offered to help, but she shook her head with quiet determination. "No… I'll carry him."

Her voice wavered, but her resolve was firm. Because deep down, she knew. This might be the last time she would hold him like this.

"Nice place you got!" Ricardo announced cheerfully as he ducked through the doorframe, his broad shoulders brushing the wood. The tiny cabin seemed almost comical around his large frame.

"Yay, a fire!" Mimi squealed, scampering to the hearth with her siblings. They huddled together around the small flame that doubled as Emilia's kitchen stove and fireplace, their twin tails flicking as the warmth spread.

Emilia, her steps soft and careful, carried Subaru into the room and gently laid him on her bed. She tucked a few blankets over him, her hands lingering as if willing warmth back into his skin. Afterward, she busied herself with preparing tea. The faint aroma filled the room, though the taste, as always, came out bitter and unrefined. She sighed faintly. Subaru was better at things like this. He always had a strange knack for the "useless" skills that made life a little brighter.

It wasn't long before Subaru's eyes fluttered open. His breath hitched, and he shot upright, panic flashing in his gaze. "Mili!" His voice cracked as he scanned the room, eyes darting for threats. He froze when he found them—five figures. Four strangers… and one face he knew far too well.

"You've got to be kidding me…" Subaru's expression darkened. "You're here."

"It's nice to see you as well, Subaru," Julius replied, his tone calm but deliberate, putting weight on Subaru's name.

Subaru turned sharply toward Emilia. She was sitting close to him… though not as close as usual. The small gap between them felt like a chasm. She avoided his gaze, her violet eyes downcast, her silver hair falling over her shoulders like a curtain. And then Subaru noticed what she had tried—and failed—to hide.

"Mili—your ears!" he blurted out, a little too loud.

Her shoulders flinched. Slowly, she whispered, "It's fine, Subaru. I… I told them everything I knew." Her voice wavered, heavy with guilt, and still she wouldn't meet his eyes.

Subaru's throat tightened. He dragged a hand down his face, rubbing the bridge of his nose as if the gesture could ward off the weight pressing down on him. "Alright. You caught me." His tone was resigned, almost bitter. "But this doesn't leave this room. Got it?" He fixed Julius with a sharp look.

The knights still awake nodded in solemn agreement.

"Don't worry, bro," Ricardo said with an easy grin, flashing his sharp teeth. "We've all got our own secrets."

"Look at those teeth!" Subaru blurted in reflexive shock, before Emilia pinched his ear—not as harshly as usual, but enough to make him yelp. "Ow—sorry, sorry!"

The moment of levity faded as Julius stepped forward, his expression grave. "Subaru. Please… no more lies. Are you the warlock we're looking for?"

The question hung in the air like a blade. Subaru twitched, then exhaled slowly, surrendering. "...Yeah. But it wasn't on purpose. It just… happened. Something I did unconsciously."

"By 'something,'" Julius pressed, "you mean summoning the dragon?"

Subaru gave a weak shrug. "Yeah. Not that I could do it again if I tried."

Julius's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "Then demonstrate your power. Show us."

Reluctantly, Subaru extended his hand. A faint shimmer of mana coalesced, forming into a small, intricate clock. Its moving parts shifted with delicate precision, a strange creation that looked both fragile and impossibly complex.

Both Julius and Ricardo stared, mouths slightly agape.

"Bro… how'd you do that?" Ricardo asked, genuine astonishment in his tone. Julius seemed equally stunned, though his composure remained more intact.

"I don't know," Subaru admitted, voice low. "It just… happens. But listen." His face hardened, seriousness cutting through his exhaustion. "It's dangerous if I tell you how I got this power. It could cause you to d—"

The world stopped.

Cold seeped into his bones. Shadows curled around him like icy fingers. A black hand, impossibly smooth, slipped through his back and caressed his heart. The voice came, chilling and familiar, echoing inside his skull.

"Our secret."

Time lurched forward again. Subaru gasped, clutching his chest, his body hunched in pain. Sweat trickled down his temple as the others rushed to his side. Their voices blurred, distant, meaningless against the pounding in his ears.

'That was new… I can't even talk about my return by death?' The thought chilled him further. Two taboos. Two unbreakable walls.

"I see…" Julius murmured quietly, though his sharp eyes missed none of Subaru's struggle. Straightening, he said, "We won't trouble you further tonight. We'll patrol the village and depart after."

Ricardo moved to rouse the triplets, their tiny bodies curled together in sleep. Emilia realized with a pang that this might be her only chance.

"Actually, Julius…" Her voice wavered, but she forced herself to continue. "Could you wait outside for a teensy bit? I… I need to speak with Subaru."

Julius's gaze flicked between them, lingering on her sad eyes, before he inclined his head. "Of course."

"No one says 'teensy' anymore," Subaru teased weakly, hoping for her usual reaction. But instead of a pout or playful glare, all he saw was her sadness deepen. His stomach twisted. Something was wrong.

Julius and Ricardo stepped outside, leaving the cabin heavy with silence.

"Mili… hey, what's wrong?" Subaru asked, his voice tinged with nerves.

She met his eyes at last. There was determination there, steady and unyielding, even as sorrow pooled beneath. "Subaru… I think we shouldn't see each other anymore."

The words hit him like a blade through the chest. He froze, staring at her in disbelief. Was it because he wasn't strong enough? Because he kept failing? Or… had she simply grown tired of him, like so many others before?

"Wait, Mili… You don't mean that." His voice cracked, desperation seeping through.

"I can't take it anymore!" she burst out, her voice rising. "Seeing you get hurt again and again—because of me!"

"I'm not hurt because of you!" Subaru shouted back, louder, his own voice shaking. "Everything I do—it's because I want to!"

"I never asked you to!" Her hands balled into fists, tears threatening at the corners of her eyes. "I could have protected myself, but you—"

"—are weak?!" Subaru barked bitterly. "Yeah, I know that! But it doesn't mean I'll stop helping you!"

"Subaru, listen—"

"No, you listen, Mili!" he cut her off, his throat tightening. "I want to help you because you saved me too!"

Her breath caught. "When… when did I ever do that?!" Her voice cracked, echoing beyond the cabin walls. Outside, Julius and Ricardo glanced at one another, but neither moved to interfere.

"You—" The words caught in his throat. He couldn't say it. Not with the curse clawing at his chest.

"You can't even tell me, can you?" Emilia whispered, tears spilling at last. "You don't trust me enough to say why. You keep secrets, you lie… You say you want to protect me, but you won't even let me protect you."

"You don't trust me!" Subaru slammed his fist against the wall, anger trembling through him. "You don't trust that I can make my own choice—that I want to stay by your side no matter what!"

"I don't like how you're always reckless!" Emilia's voice broke into sobs. "How you act like you're the only one who can shoulder the burden! How you treat me like a doll, like I'll shatter—when you're the one getting hurt over and over! How you lie to me, again and again!"

"I only do that to keep you safe!"

"Then stop!" she screamed. "Just stop!" Her chest heaved, tears streaking her cheeks. And before she could stop herself, the words slipped out. "I hate you!"

The silence afterward was deafening.

Subaru's face crumpled. "M-Mili… you don't mean that. You're just angry. Don't say something you'll regret." He reached out a trembling hand—but she pulled away.

Emilia's own words pierced her like a blade. I hate you. The moment they left her lips, her heart recoiled. She had lived through fear, through loneliness, through countless cold stares and whispered rumors—but never hate. Not truly. Not until now, when she had forced the word from herself, not at Subaru, but at her own resolve.

Because she didn't hate him. She couldn't.

Yes, Subaru frustrated her. He scared her with his recklessness. He made her want to scream when he smiled through his pain as though it didn't matter. But hate? No. That word was a lie she'd used as a shield. A cruel weapon to drive him away—for his sake, not hers.

And if it worked, she knew she'd hate herself for it later.

Her bangs hid her eyes as she whispered, voice trembling, "Subaru… please leave." She didn't want to lose him—her dearest friend, the boy who made her laugh, who made her believe she wasn't as alone as she feared. But every time she kept him close, he got hurt. She couldn't stand it anymore. She couldn't stand him suffering because of her.

Something inside her ached, sharp and unfamiliar. A warmth that had always been there around him now felt like it was being ripped from her chest, leaving her hollow. She didn't even understand why it hurt this much.

"Mili…"

His voice—broken, uncertain—reached her. She dared a glance up. His eyes were filled with a storm of emotions, too tangled to name, yet all of them carved her deeper than any blade could.

"Subaru, just… go." Her hand shook as she pointed toward the door, turning her face away before she could lose the will to follow through.

Normally, Subaru would never have given up. He would have fought tooth and nail, thrown every reckless word and stubborn smile at her until she broke. But this time… this time he didn't. Something about her tone, about the finality in her trembling voice, stopped him cold.

He rose slowly, shoulders heavy, and reached for his coat. The rustle of the fabric sounded unbearably loud in the silence.

Halfway to the door, he spoke, his voice strained but steady. "I've gotten pretty good at my ability, you know?"

She said nothing.

"The range is pretty good now. I could reach you from the village… even from farther."

Still silence. Her throat clenched, but no words came.

He paused, then turned his head slightly, just enough to glance back. "You asked me… why I did it all."

Her ears tingled faintly, that strange, telling sensation she always felt when he showed how much he cared for her by using his ability to make her normal. But she couldn't answer. Not now. Not when her heart felt ready to break.

His gaze lingered on her for a heartbeat, then drifted away. He turned back to the door, hand on the handle, and added quietly—so softly she almost thought she imagined it—

"It shouldn't go away. You can count on that."

"…and Emilia?"

Her head snapped up despite herself, tears brimming in her eyes, finally meeting his. It felt like a crime that he couldn't see them—the only thing she could offer him now.

"It's because I love you."

The words crashed over her, shattering what little strength she had left.

Huh?

Her mind splintered into a thousand frantic thoughts, each colliding into the next. He… loves me? The words echoed inside her chest, rattling against every fragile defense she had built. She had overheard him say it once before—quiet, almost too soft to believe—but she had convinced herself she'd misheard. She had to have misheard. That was safer. Easier.

But now… now he had looked at her and said it plainly, without hesitation.

Why? Why would someone like him… love someone like her?

Her heart clenched as she realized another detail: this was the first time he hadn't called her "Mili." No teasing nickname, no warmth in his tone. Just her name. Emilia. It struck her like a finality—like he was drawing a line she could never step back across. Was it his way of showing he was serious? Or… was it his way of saying goodbye?

Before she could form the words to stop him, to take it back, the soft click of the door closing shattered the moment. And with it, her last chance to change anything.

Her body trembled as the tears came, spilling hot and endless down her cheeks. They fell onto her lap, onto the floor, soaking into her trembling hands. She pressed her palms to her chest, as if she could hold together the ache tearing her apart.

It hurt. Oh, how it hurt. To lose him like this—to lose her friend, her dearest companion, the boy who made her smile when she thought she had forgotten how. Even if it was for the best, even if it meant he would be safe, the emptiness clawing inside her was unbearable.

Because even if he loved her, she would always bring danger. She would always draw hatred and fear. And she couldn't—she wouldn't—let him suffer because of her again.

So she whispered the words to herself like a curse, trying to make them true.

It's better this way.

Her tears only fell faster.

It was better this way.

Outside, Subaru stepped into the night. The air was bitter cold, though he felt none of it. Julius and Ricardo stood waiting. He didn't look at them.

The door shut behind him with a hollow finality, the sound echoing in his chest like a tolling bell. Subaru stood there for a moment, his hand still hovering over the handle, as if he could will it to open again. As if he could pretend the words inside hadn't been said.

But they had.

"Just… bring me home," he said, his voice flat, eyes dull.

Ricardo placed a firm hand on his back, guiding him toward the carriage. Subaru climbed inside without another word.

His breath came uneven, fogging in the frigid air as he forced his feet to move. Each step away from the cabin felt like a betrayal. The night bit at his skin, but he barely noticed. Numbness spread deeper than the cold ever could.

The stars stretched above him, countless and unfamiliar. Usually, they brought him comfort. Tonight, they only reminded him of everything he had lost.

He replayed it in his head—her voice, trembling, breaking, telling him to leave. The look in her eyes before she turned away. And the words she'd thrown at him like a blade: I hate you.

He clenched his fists. He knew it wasn't true. He had to believe it wasn't true. Emilia couldn't hate him—not when he'd seen the way she smiled at him, not when he'd seen the care in her eyes a hundred times before.

So why did it feel so real?

Because maybe she was right. Maybe he was reckless. Maybe every joke, every vow, every desperate attempt to protect her had just made her life harder. He wanted to be her shield. Her hero. But all he seemed to do was bleed for her, again and again, and drag her into pain she never asked for.

His chest tightened, the echo of her tears clinging to him even from behind the door. He wished he could tell her everything—about the curse, about why he fought so hard, about the nights he woke up shaking from deaths she'd never know about. But he couldn't. The moment he tried, the shadows would choke him.

So all he could give her was the truth he could say: I love you.

It wasn't enough.

He tilted his head back, staring at the sky as the stars glittered coldly above. Once, their unfamiliar beauty had given him hope, as if each light promised a new tomorrow. But tonight, they only mocked him—countless, unreachable, and cruel.

Behind him, in that tiny cabin, the girl he loved was crying. And here he was, walking away because she told him to.

His lips parted, breath clouding the air as he whispered, "Was it really better this way?"

The night gave him no answer.