Re:Zero - The King of Pride

Subaru woke up early the next morning. Last night's carnage still bothered him but looking across the room to see Emilia sleeping there with a smile on her face was a wonderful way to wake up.

Subaru became aware of something small and furry that was floating just over his head.

"Did anything happen last night that I should be made aware of?" Puck asked with an edge in his voice.

"Well, I did kill a troll last night," Subaru said with a yawn.

Puck blinked, looking confused.

"Puck?" Emilia asked in a sleepy voice, rubbing the sleep out of her eyes.

"Lia, are you alright?" Puck darted over to her.

Emilia looked confused. "Why wouldn't I be?"

Puck spun around in midair to glower at Subaru.

Subaru sighed. The sun just came up. It is too freaking early in the morning to be dealing with a jealous, possessive cat who can both read my mind and end me whenever he wants. "Oh for God's sake, Puck! Nothing happened! We're even sleeping in two different beds! What could you even be thinking that we did?!"

"I'm not sure what you're worried about, Puck," Emilia said slowly, "But I thought that sleeping here would give Subaru and me more time to talk. It didn't seem to be a big deal."

Puck sighed. He looked at Subaru with annoyance. "Just remember, Subaru: you and Lia are probationary. I still have my doubts about you."

Subaru shook his head. "And what are the odds of a mortal creature living long enough to resolve said doubts?"

Puck didn't answer and simply shepherded a confused Emilia out the door. "Come on, Lia. We need to get you dressed."

"Bye, Subaru!" Emilia shouted as the tiny flying spirit literally pushed her out the door.

"Bye, Mili!" He yelled back as she disappeared around the corner.

Subaru shook his head and laughed.

After breakfast, Subaru and Emilia had just sat down on the couch to talk when a very annoyed-looking Beatrice entered the room carrying Puck.

Subaru raised an eyebrow as Beatrice tried to climb into a chair on the other side of the room.

"No, not here, Betty. Over there," Subaru heard Puck whisper.

Beatrice turned around to look at Subaru and Emilia. Beatrice looked absolutely humiliated but she came over to the couch where the two sat and, with some effort, managed to wedge herself and Puck into the small space between Subaru and Emilia.

"Really, Puck?" Subaru asked.

Puck smirked at him.

"What's going on?" Emilia asked.

Subaru snickered, getting an idea. "Oh, don't you see, Mili?" Subaru asked in a sad voice.

She shook her head, frowning.

"Beatrice is lonely. That's why she's sitting here with us," Subaru explained, hiding a smile with difficulty.

Beatrice visibly jumped while Puck looked confused. "Betty is not lonely!" She protested. "Betty is just doing what her Bubby-"

"It's OK, Beako," Subaru soothed. "We all love you. Oh, you poor dear, you need a hug. Mili, help me hug her," Subaru instructed.

Beatrice's jaw dropped.

Emilia nodded seriously and they both wrapped their arms around the spirit loli.

"No!" Beatrice shrieked. "Betty does not need hugs! Betty just needs her Bubby, I suppose!" Beatrice leaped off the couch, clutching Puck, and raced out of the room at top speed.

Subaru got one glimpse of Puck staring back at him in frustration as the two disappeared out of the room.

Subaru burst out laughing.

Emilia looked at Subaru with suspicion. "Subaru, what just happened?"

"Oh, I was just having some fun with Puck," Subaru snickered.

"Don't you be mean to Puck!" Emilia said, putting her hand on her hips. "And why has Puck been acting so weird lately?"

"Weird?"

"Yes! He kept asking me questions about what we did last night and when I asked him what he meant he got all flustered and didn't answer me! And why is he telling me not to be around you so much? Every time I ask, he admits he likes you so why doesn't he want me to spend time with you? He won't tell me!"

Subaru frowned. Maybe Emilia really doesn't know how Puck feels about this. If she's really been alone for a long time, except for Puck, then she probably doesn't have much experience with human relationships. I know the overprotective father trope from a thousand different sitcoms but Emilia is probably encountering it for the first time.

"You know, Mili," Subaru began awkwardly. "Fathers tend to have trouble when their daughters first become… romantically involved with people. They can get jealous and possessive because they feel like someone is taking their little girl away. They worry that they won't get the same kind of attention as before. It's certainly an unattractive trait but it's very common."

Emilia gasped. "Are you saying Puck is afraid I'm going to leave him?" She asked in a stricken voice.

"No! No, I don't think he thinks that," Subaru disagreed. "It's just… I think Puck is little afraid of change right now."

"I don't understand."

"How long have you and Puck been together?" Subaru asked.

"About seven years I think, ever since he thawed me out of the ice," Emilia answered.

Subaru stared at her. "…OK. I am definitely going have some more questions about that. But for right, now let's stay on topic," Subaru continued. "It's been just the two of you for almost seven years. That worked for Puck. He had you all to himself. But now there's the possibility of someone else in the mix and that your attention could be divided. You might not have as much time for him. You might even decide you love someone else as much as you love Puck. Those ideas make Puck a little… scared."

Wait, am I describing a father who's afraid of letting go of his little girl or am I describing a little kid who doesn't want someone taking his Mommy away? Or maybe I'm describing a father who acts just like a little kid?

"I didn't mean to hurt Puck," Emilia said, sounding very guilty.

"You're not the one hurting him-"

"Lord Subaru and Lady Emilia," Ram said primly as she entered the room. "Miss Petra is here to speak with you."

Subaru shut up and took Emilia's hand.

Emilia quickly composed herself and said, "Please, ask her to come in."

Petra walked into the room looking quite overwhelmed by the manor. As soon as she saw Subaru she turned bright red.

"Hello, Petra, how are you today?" Subaru asked.

Petra didn't answer.

Oh boy. I recognize these signs. Somebody has a crush, presumably on me but Emilia isn't out of the realm of possibility. Why is it that even back home all the girls who fall in love with me are like half my age? Can't I attract someone around my own age? What does it say about me that the only people who think I'm cool and mature are around ten years old? I mean I guess this trait of attracting girls half my age might be nice if continues into my forties but right now it's really inconvenient.

Subaru suddenly had an idea.

"Emilia, could I ask you to entertain Petra for a bit? I have a chore I should take care of. I'll be back in a few minutes," Subaru said, getting off the couch.

"Of course," Emilia said, bidding Petra to come closer.

Petra seemed much more comfortable entering the room now that Subaru was leaving it. OK, maybe it's not a crush. Maybe she's just scared of me after she watched me tear apart a company of soldiers and a giant cyclops last night. I'd certainly understand it but that would still suck.

After leaving Emilia and Petra alone, Subaru searched the manor for Beatrice's library. He found it on the third floor.

"Gah!" Beatrice screamed as soon as he opened the door. Beatrice flopped off her futon, hiding behind it like a shield. She raised one hand threateningly while she cradled Puck in the other. "Don't come any closer, in fact! Betty is not for hugging!" She said as if threatening a battle to death.

"Relax, Beako. I'm not here to bother you. I actually wanted to talk to Puck," Subaru replied.

"About what?" Puck grumbled.

"About Emilia. Isn't that something that we could talk about?" Subaru asked.

Puck pulled himself out of Beatrice's arms and floated over to Subaru with his arms folded across his chest. "Talk."

Subaru sighed. "OK, Puck. I know you're not exactly crazy about my proposing to Mili. So I thought we might at least try to find common ground."

"'Common ground?'" Puck lashed his tail. "What common ground could we possibly have?"

"Well, we both want Emilia to be happy, right? So that's something we have in common," Subaru replied.

Puck's eyes narrowed but he didn't reply.

Subaru sighed. "Look, I know this is all happening really fast. Emilia and I need to remain engaged at least until after the selection is over. By then it's extremely likely that Emilia will have decided I'm not the man for her and she'll break the engagement off."

"Oh no, that would be just awful," Puck said in a throughly unconvincing voice.

Subaru briefly wondered if Puck could survive being hit by Indomitable. "But," Subaru grated. "That gives us two years where we need to find a way to live with each other."

"Why would I bother to do that?" Puck sniffed.

"Because you're hurting Emilia," Subaru said flatly.

Puck went absolutely still.

"You really didn't notice?" Subaru asked. "It bothers the hell out of Emilia every time we fight. It makes her miserable. So every time you and I go at it, we are hurting Emilia."

I could easily point out that you have been the one picking all of the fights, Puck, but I'm trying to make peace right now.

"You don't know what you're talking about, Subaru. I'd do anything for Lia," Puck said his eyes dangerously intent. "I'm on her side. Always."

"Me too," Subaru stated. "So, assuming we both really mean those words and it's not just hot air, we need to find a way to deal with each other."

Puck's eyes narrowed. "I'm not just going to let you take my daughter away, Subaru!"

Subaru sighed. "I'm not going to take her away. If I thought that would work, I'd have already done it. Don't you think I'd like to have her undivided attention as much as you would?"

Puck started and his eyes opened wide.

Yup. I thought that was how he felt.

"I'm not trying to get Emilia away from you because it would make her sad. It's just that simple," Subaru said. "If having you in her life would make Emilia a tiny bit happier, if you being there would make her smile just a little bit more often, why wouldn't I beg you to stay with her and do exactly that? My goal is to make Emilia as happy as possible. If that means sharing her with you then that's just what I have to do."

Puck floated silently for a moment.

"We have a common goal, Puck. We should work together to carry it out," Subaru urged.

Puck glanced away.

"Lia is… happier when you're around," Puck admitted after a moment. "You're the first real friend she's ever had. The first one who didn't treat her differently because of how she looks," Puck paused. "If I killed you or drove you away, Lia would be unhappy."

Do you have to talk about my death as if you were swatting a fly, Puck?

"So I guess the only solution is for us to live with each other and work together to keep Mili happy," Subaru said. "Hey, who knows? We do this long enough, you and I might even learn to like each other!"

Puck actually cracked a smile. "That's pretty optimistic of you, Subaru. You'd have to make Lia really happy before I decided I liked you," His face became serious. "Subaru. Do not make me regret this. I'm trusting you with the most precious thing in the entire world."

"I think we can agree on that, Puck," Subaru replied with a slight smile.

They were both quiet for a moment.

"Puck, why don't you go pop in on Mili for a bit? I think she's worried that she made you angry. Seeing you would do her good," Subaru suggested.

Pucked stiffened. "Oh crap! Lia, thinks I'm mad at her?!" He vanished.

"Now that you have taken Betty's Bubby away, you can leave here, I suppose," Beatrice sniffed.

Subaru noticed Beatrice was now standing next to him with her arms folded across her chest.

I guess Beako decided I wasn't going to immediately try to hug her again, Subaru thought.

"You have a lot of books in here, Beako," Subaru said, ignoring her instructions. "Why don't you keep them in the other library?"

"This is Betty's library, I suppose. It was given to Betty by mother to protect," Beatrice replied.

"And your mother is also Puck's mother? Where is she at?" Subaru asked.

"Ugh. Stop asking stupid questions, I suppose!" Beatrice growled, sitting down on her stool and opening a large book while pointedly ignoring Subaru.

Subaru walked over to a bookshelf and plucked down a book at random. "Hmm. Interesting," Subaru opened it and was confronted with a myriad collection of incomprehensible symbols. "Oh right. I forgot I can't read this language," Subaru sighed. "That really needs to be my number one task right now. Nobody wants an illiterate on the throne," Subaru mused to himself while putting the book back in place.

"Subaru!" Emilia called from behind him.

Subaru turned around to see Emilia, Puck, Petra, and the twins standing in the doorway.

"Subaru, the village of Arlem is holding a feast today to celebrate you rescuing them and we've all been invited!" Emilia said smiling.

"Neat!" Subaru said, noticing that Petra was again bright red and staring at her shoes.

"Come on, Subaru," Puck said, floating up to him. "If you're going to play the hero you have to let people thank you once in a while. Otherwise they'll feel guilty."

"Good advice, Puck," Subaru said with a smile.

"I'll go prepare the carriage," Rem said, walking away.

"We should get moving or we'll be late," Ram agreed, following her sister.

Subaru started to leave the library and then paused. He glanced back at Beatrice who was buried in her book, although considering that her eyes weren't moving, it was hard to believe she was actually reading it.

"Hey, Beako, want to come to the party with us?" Subaru asked gently.

Beatrice looked up from her book only to sneer at him. "And why would Betty want to come with you, I suppose?"

Subaru actually smiled at this.

OK I don't need Reason and Judgment for this. Beatrice acts angry but she's clutching that book like a shield. Beatrice is scared of something. I bet she really wants to get out of here and her acting like this is just a defense mechanism.

"Well," Subaru said thoughtfully. "For one thing, Puck will be there."

Beatrice gave Subaru a look that wished him a very slow death as she put down her book.

Rem drove the carriage while Ram sat next to Petra. Emilia and Subaru sat across from them, sandwiching Beatrice who held Puck.

"You know, Subaru, the little girl was saying some very nice things about you," Puck informed him.

Petra turned bright red and tried to hide behind Ram.

Unfortunately for Petra, Ram wasn't having any of it. "Sit still!' Ram snapped and Petra froze in place.

"Apparently you became some kind of big hero while I was sleeping," Puck continued.

"Sorry, buddy," Subaru replied. "Next time I almost die, I'll wake you up so you can watch," Subaru snickered.

Well OK, Puck's been taunting me the whole trip but at least he's being good humored about it. And he's been talking to me on this trip instead of just ignoring me. I know that 'buddy' is a major stretch but actually I think this is a very good sign.

As they pulled into Arlem, Subaru hopped out the carriage door. The entire square was decorated and enormous tables were piled high with food. There was quite a crowd who all seemed very excited to see the carriage. Subaru reached up to help the ladies down.

I remember seeing stuff like this in movies. A gentleman assists the lady out of the carriage, right? It seems like the right thing to do in this situation, Subaru mused.

Subaru extended his hand to Petra as she exited the carriage. Petra flushed but she took his hand and he helped her hop down. Then Petra darted off into the crowd, most likely looking for her Mom.

Ram came out next. Subaru offered her his hand but Ram looked at it as though it hadn't been washed in a week then leapt down on her own and walked away without looking at Subaru.

Beatrice came out next, holding Puck. Subaru offered her his hand.

"And what is this about, I suppose?" Beatrice asked.

"I'm trying to be a gentleman, I guess?" Subaru replied, wondering if he had screwed this whole thing up. "I was going to help you down."

"Hm. What makes you think Betty needs help, I suppose?" She asked with a sniff.

"I didn't think you needed help. I thought you might want help," Subaru replied. He suddenly thought of something. "After all, life can be incredibly lonely if there's no one around to help you," He added.

Beatrice started and then fumed but she ultimately let Subaru take her hand. She gently bounced down onto the ground. She walked away with Puck without looking back.

Emilia was last and she smiled down at Subaru when he offered her his hand. She took it and then landed gracefully. The two of them just smiled at each other for a moment. Without even thinking about it, Subaru reached out and brushed back a stray lock of hair on her cheek.

Emilia flushed but she didn't stop smiling.

Subaru coughed glancing away. "Rem! Do you need any help with the carriage?"

"No, Lord Subaru," Rem said, jumping down from the high seat with no apparent concern and making to follow her sister. "Everything is attended to."

"Lord Subaru?" He whispered to Emilia. "When did she start calling me that?"

"Maybe she's starting to see who you are beneath appearances. A smart man once told me that your appearance doesn't say anything about who you are as a person," Emilia told him with a smile.

"I know for a fact it was not a smart man who told you that," Subaru quipped as the two joined the party.

The feast was ebullient and festive. Subaru and Emilia were the absolute centers of attention. Emilia was nervous around so many people but she began to relax as she realized that they didn't feel threatened by her appearance. Subaru, on the other hand, was seriously distracted. He was struggling to keep the smile on his face and engage in the vapid pleasantries typical of both nobles and politicians.

Before the feast started, the Village Chief had brought them on a tour of the village: A very very short tour since you could view almost the entire village just by standing in the square. However, Subaru had learned two things which he thought would be of immense value. And a third that made him extremely worried.

The first was when he noticed an unplowed field. "Excuse me, Chief," Subaru said. "If you're worried about having enough food for the winter like you said, why aren't you planting over there?"

The Chief glanced at where he was pointing. "Oh, we leave those fields fallow this year. It's good for the soil." The chief answered.

Fallow… I remember that word from school… what did they tell us?

Wait a second! You don't need to leave fields fallow. It was…

Shit where did I hear this… It was at school…

Oh, I remember now! It was that asshole history teacher! Crop Rotations! He insisted on us learning crop rotations for like three months. It was the most boring history class I ever slept through. I think Mom said that the teacher had written a book on 'History of Farming Techniques' or something and decided to just teach us that instead of actual world history. I remember the Principal had to get involved before we even opened our text books.

God, I can't believe I actually remember this shit. Then again he spent three months drilling it into our heads. We used to call it a legal form of torture. Or is it that Reason and Judgment is jogging my memory?

"Hey, Chief," Subaru asked. "What kind of crops do you usually grow out here?"

"Oh, corn, wheat, and barley usually," The chief answered. "We don't make much money on anything else."

Those are all 'greedy' crops. If he's growing those one after the other no wonder the soil around here stinks. Jeez, I can't believe I remember all this crap. Oh God. Please don't tell me I owe that asshole teacher a debt. I just couldn't handle it.

"Doesn't look like you've got too many animals out here," Subaru commented.

"Unfortunately, no. It's very hard to keep them fed through the winter," The chief explained. He then continued the tour pointing out everyday objects as though they were important.

Emilia gave Subaru a quizzical look but Subaru mouthed: 'Later' and she nodded.

Well, it makes sense that they don't have many animals if those are the only crops they grow. They're not growing anything to feed the animals through the winter. I remember that asshole told us that the four crop rotation system was what allowed farmers to stop letting fields go fallow so often.

Come to think of it I think that was also what let them keep more animals right? The cycle was… come on Subaru, this was a question on every weekly review test for two months straight!

It was corn… or wheat, then turnips, then barley… then clover? Yeah, I think that's right. Corn is really greedy for nutrients so you grow that first. Turnips don't need the same nutrients as corn and wheat so you can grow them after the greedy crop with no problem, and I think they even might put some nutrients back in the soil.

Yeah I remember now! Two human crops and two animal crops. Wheat and barley for people and the turnips and clover feed the animals. Those fields of animal feed let you raise and keep more animals. Clover is supposed to be super good for the soil. Then after you feed the animals a diet of clover, their manure is supposed to be rich in nutrients for the soil.

Could starting an agricultural revolution help Emilia and I take the throne? Maybe. Of course, the question is: how do we even start one and how do we make sure we get credit for it?

Subaru's second revelation came when they briefly visited Petra's house, whose mother worked as a seamstress. The house was a small one-room cottage that the family shared. Petra's mother had a small workplace near her bed where she appeared to sew clothing by hand.

Mom liked to sew when she was younger. It was just a hobby but I remember that sewing machine she used. I remember one year it had broken and before we tossed it away and got a new one, she and Dad had cracked it open so I could look inside. So they could show me all the gears. Yeah, I remember I was super into legos and gears at that age so the sewing machine innards were pretty cool. I… I think I remember how it worked. I think I remember how all those gears fit together. Could I make one? If got someone to make gears, could I make a sewing machine? I think I could. And if I did what would that be worth?

It wasn't until Subaru was sitting beside Emilia at the feast and trying to keep a smile on his face that the third revelation occurred to him.

OK, Subaru. We need to have a very serious chat. You do realize that all of this is bullshit, right? Subaru mused to himself.

Oh yeah, you totally remember how complex crop rotations work. You read about them in a class you slept through five years ago; it makes perfect sense.

And, of course, you remember how that old sewing machine worked. You looked at it for a full ten minutes when you were eight years old. It's only natural that it was imprinted on your brain.

Wake up, Subaru. You are not this smart, you are not this creative, and every teacher you've ever had in your life would agree. How do you remember any of this stuff?

Subaru rubbed his face as he tried to put all this together.

It's got to be Reason and Judgment. It really is making you smarter. That's the only logical explanation. OK so… why is that a bad thing? That's a good thing, right?

Well, maybe, maybe not. Indomitable makes me feel like my heart is going to pop like a soap bubble whenever I over rely on it. So… what is Reason and Judgment doing to me? So far it seems free to use but what if there's a big price tag attached and I just don't know what it is? Could it be affecting my mind? If it changed my behavior and personality, would I even be aware that it was happening? There's nobody here who could warn me if my personality was changing. None of them know me well enough yet to recognize the signs.

Come to think of it, even if that was happening, what could I do about it? I could stop using Reason and Judgment actively but if this theory is right, it might also having a passive effect on me just by possessing it. Even if I knew for certain that it was poisoning me, how could I ever completely shut it off?

Well, maybe that's the real answer. If there's nothing I can do about a problem I shouldn't bother worrying about it. I should try to be aware of it, just so I know what might be happening, but even if I do prove this theory, unless I think of some way to mitigate it, I might as well ignore it.

That being said… maybe I should reduce how often I trigger Reason and Judgment. Probably should save it for emergencies until I've had a chance to think this through. It'll be hard to stop using it but I can manage.

Just then, another carriage rolled into the village, a carriage that Subaru recognized.

Perfect. I so needed a distraction right now, Subaru smiled, getting up from the table and walking over to the carriage just as Reinhard van Astrea emerged from it.

"Red!" Subaru shouted, approaching the carriage.

"My lord," Reinhard bowed. "It is wonderful to see-oof." Reinhard choked as Subaru caught him in a hug.

"Great to see you, buddy!" Subaru smiled, stepping back.

Reinhard couldn't help but smile. "And you as well, my friend."

"Red?" A girl's voice asked. "I like that!" Felt said, jumping out of the carriage. "That is officially your new name, Reinhard!" She said with a laugh.

"Hey Felt, welcome to Arlem," Subaru said, walking over to her.

"A handshake is fine, I don't need a hug," Felt warned him.

"OK but this is special treatment, just this once," Subaru warned her before shaking her hand.

Felt chuckled. Emilia was coming over to the carriage as well.

"Good news, my friend. The sage council found in favor of Lady Emilia and she may continue to participate in the selection," Reinhard told him.

"Awesome. That is good news," Subaru said, trying to force some enthusiasm.

Huh. Weird. You'd think I'd be happier. I guess I'd just stopped worrying about Emilia being disqualified. I mean, don't get me wrong, two chances to win is way better than one but if Emilia had been disqualified I would have just promised her I would get the throne for her or otherwise deliver the blood. …Maybe I was even secretly hoping she'd be disqualified. That way she'd be completely dependent on me.

God, Subaru. You really do suck. You should go submit yourself to Puck for disciplinary action.

Well… I don't honestly feel disappointed that Emilia is still in the selection. So at least I'm not a completely terrible person. I mean even if she became queen it's not like I would have walked away. Well, not unless she asked me to. Honestly, when we met I was sure it was just a matter of time before she told me I was bothering her and I should go somewhere else. But over the past few days something has changed. I'm actually starting to wonder if maybe she wants me to stay.

"Well, I'm certainly happy to see you, Felt, but what brings you way out here?" Subaru asked.

"Well, Red was making the trip and I wanted to ask you a few questions," Felt said with a smirk.

"Oh?" Subaru replied.

"The real reason is, I was afraid for Miss Felt's safety in the city during my absence," Reinhard interjected. "I am ashamed to admit this but I have discovered that my compatriots among the guard are not all as… righteous as I once thought. After Miss Felt gave testimony which the guard captain disapproved of, I was worried he might take advantage of my absence to do her harm, so I asked her to accompany me."

Subaru nodded. "Well, I'm glad to see you, Felt. Sorry it's not under better circumstances. It's actually good that you're here because I wanted to offer you a job."

"Really?" She asked in surprise.

"Yeah, but we'll get into the details later in private."

"Hello, Miss Felt," Emilia said, walking up to them.

Felt bit her lip and looked down at the ground. "Um. I just wanted to say that… I'm really sorry that I stole your insignia, Lady Emilia," Felt whispered to avoid anyone overhearing them. "I thought it was just jewelry. But Reinhard explained to me how important it was and how much trouble I caused you and Subaru by taking it and… I'm just really really sorry."

Emilia's eyes widened and she patted Felt's bowed head. "That's alright. I think everything really worked out for the best. If you hadn't taken it, I never would have met Subaru."

"Good point," Subaru approved.

Felt looked up at Emilia in wonder. "Wait, that's it? Damn. I spent the whole trip up here thinking you would want to rake me over the coals a few times."

"I did tell you," Reinhard commented quietly.

Felt put her arms behind her head and laughed. "So, Subaru, I heard the joyous news about you two! Where's my invitation? I thought we were friends, guy!"

Subaru laughed and even Emilia chuckled. "I promise, you'll know as soon as we pick a date. Currently looking like about two years out at least. But hey, you're here, join the celebration!"

"Yeah, well, before we do that, I do have a question for you, Subaru," Felt said.

"What's that?"

"There are all these rumors floating around town about you." Felt said.

"Whatever it is, I have an alibi. I was with Emilia," Subaru said seriously.

Felt laughed. "Good one. No, people are saying that you fought a troll alone. Actually they're saying that you not only fought the troll but killed it with your bare hands. Even the sages looked like they might believe it. Folks all over town are telling stories about 'Subaru the Invincible.' Is there any truth to that?"

"Of course not," Subaru laughed.

Felt smugly held out her hand and Reinhard dropped a gold coin in her palm with a sigh.

"The troll had a battle axe. I took its axe away and then used that to kill the troll," Subaru finished.

Felt's jaw dropped and a grinning Reinhard deftly plucked the coin out of her hand and returned it to his pocket.

Subaru squinted.

Is it just me or does Red look really pleased with himself?

"Uh Felt? I'm guessing that Red bet a gold coin that the rumor was true but you're not giving him any money so what did you bet?"

Felt sighed and covered her face. "Don't ask," She moaned.

The group returned to the manor shortly before sunset.

"Miss Ram, I spoke with Lord Roswaal before departing the city," Reinhard said. "He asked me to give you these missives," He handed her a stack of envelopes. "Please observe that the seal is unbroken," Reinhard finished, taking a long hard look at Felt.

Felt folded her arms across her chest, muttering to herself.

"Thank you, Sir Reinhard," Ram said with a perfunctory curtsy. "I will locate a room for Miss Felt. Sir Reinhard can return to his original room with Lord Subaru."

"Ram, you're mean," Subaru complained.

Ram looked at him strangely.

Subaru blushed. Oh right. The only people who know where Emilia slept last night are Emilia, Puck and me!

Ram noticed that Emilia had turned a similar shade of red. "Ah," Ram said smirking. "Well, whenever anyone wishes to change the sleeping arrangements, they can simply let me know. I'd hate to be mean."

Subaru nodded awkwardly.

"I'm afraid I don't understand," Reinhard said in confusion.

"I'll tell you later," Subaru sighed.

Felt was trying conceal her laughter and failing badly.

"Oh, don't worry Subaru," Puck said with a yawn from Beatrice's arms. He sounded smug but not altogether unkind. "You'll see her in the morning. Frankly, I'm ready for bed too."

"Actually, I was hoping to see you right now, Emilia," Subaru said. "Feel like taking a stroll in the gardens before bed? I wanted to talk a few things over with you."

"Sounds pleasant," Emilia agreed.

Puck frowned. "Lia, maybe I should-"

Emilia stopped Puck with a calm, patient look.

The spirit cat sighed. "Lia, don't stay up too late."

"I won't," She promised.

Puck disappeared.

"Well, it was nice having you with us tonight, Beako," Subaru said to Beatrice.

Beatrice turned her face away and folded her arms. "Hm. Betty enjoyed having more time with her Bubby, I suppose."

"You're welcome," Subaru said with a smile.

Beatrice looked sourly at Subaru then walked away without a word.

"Red, why don't you and Felt head up. I'm sure you've both had a long couple of days," Subaru suggested.

Reinhard nodded.

"-So that's what I'm thinking," Subaru finished as he walked through the garden, hand in hand with Emilia. He'd told her about both of his ideas. The Crop Rotations he was sure they could implement. The sewing machine was more iffy. He'd said nothing about his new concerns with Reason and Judgment. For one thing he'd never told her about Reason and Judgment. He'd thought about telling her about it but something had always held him back.

Well, if I told her about Reason and Judgment I'd also have to tell her that I'm worried it could be adversely affecting me. I don't want her to be worried about it. For one thing, I'm not sure that it's happening and for another, even if I was sure, what could we do about it? It's probably better that I keep Reason and Judgment to myself for now, Subaru thought to himself.

Yeah, that's a great excuse… Hell, even I don't believe that one. I'm keeping it from Emilia for one reason: so she'll keep being impressed with how smart I am. She knows about Indomitable but telling her about Reason and Judgment feels… much more personal. The magic that affects the outside world is one thing but if Reason and Judgment is really what's behind all my deductions and clever decisions then… is any of it mine? Am I actually responsible for anything or am I just a husk wrapped around Reason and Judgment?

I like this new me. I feel smart. I feel capable. I… I really don't want to have to go back to the old me, and I definitely don't want to see the old me reflected in Emilia's eyes.

Emilia looked off in the distance thoughtfully. She had listened attentively to Subaru's plans. She vaguely understood Subaru's comments about Crop Rotations but Emilia had never seen a clock in her life. So his description of a 'sewing machine' and its 'gears' and 'levers' were completely foreign to her.

"Why didn't you talk to the Chief about the Crop Rotations?" Emilia asked.

Subaru shrugged. "Well, I want to give him the idea but I also wanted to figure out how we could use the idea to help our camp. The campaign is going to start soon and we need some strategy to win. Kicking off an agricultural revolution might help us but I don't know how much or how we could take credit."

Emilia gave Subaru a stern look. "Subaru, you're talking about something that could ensure everyone in the kingdom has enough food to eat. We should be focusing on that and not the royal selection!"

"This isn't an 'either/or' thing, Mili," Subaru replied. "Yes, if it comes down to a choice between getting that dragon blood for you and saving people's lives then I definitely think you should choose the latter and I'm proud of you that you did. However, that's not the choice we're faced with. Right now the idea is: can we think of a way to advance both goals at the same time?"

They walked in silence for a moment. "What if we announced it at the selection?" Emilia suggested. "We declare that we're bringing agricultural innovations to Lagunica and we promise to eliminate hunger and revitalize the economy in our domain."

"Sounds like a good idea, Mili. I mean, it would be a good idea if we had a domain," Subaru chuckled. "Arlem is the only place that's currently backing us and even that is kind of questionable because of their primary allegiance to Roswaal."

"Who is also backing us!" Emilia pointed out. "If you told him about these ideas, you don't think Lord Roswaal would be interested? Why wouldn't he be? You're describing a huge improvement to his realm. The peasants would be happier, better fed, more productive, and trade in the realm would skyrocket! All of this would make Lord Roswaal wealthier and more powerful. Of course he'd be interested in trying it. You should also tell Sir Reinhard. He's one of the leaders of his family. He might be able to convince people in his domain to try it as well."

Subaru gave Emilia a smirk. "Damn, Mili. When did you get so smart?"

Emilia glanced away with a smile. "What? You didn't believe that I was studying in the library every day? You thought I was just pretending?"

"Actually, I always assumed you were just playing with a magic flying cat," Subaru replied.

Emilia playfully shoved Subaru away with a laugh. When Subaru drew close to Emilia again, instead of taking her hand, he slipped his arm around her waist and they walked like that.

Emilia was smiling as she leaned into Subaru, resting her head against his shoulder.

"Puck had a lot to say about you today you know," Emilia whispered with her eyes closed.

"Whatever it was, I'm innocent," Subaru replied.

"Not that, you dummy!" Emilia said, playfully swatting at him. "He said he was glad that I had you there to help me whenever Puck wasn't around."

"Wow, praise from an overprotective father. I'm speechless," Subaru replied.

Emilia tried to push him again but this time she was so clumsy that Subaru actually wrapped both of his arms around her waist and pulled her in closer. Emilia was smiling up at him as she tentatively wrapped her arms around his neck.

Subaru's mouth went dry as he looked into those beautiful amethyst eyes. A man could drown in those eyes; a man could be pulled under.

"I'm glad Puck is feeling better about… us," He murmured awkwardly.

"Me too," Emilia whispered.

"Mili, how do you feel about us?" Subaru asked.

Emilia's face turned red but she didn't avert her gaze. "I'm not sure. I don't know much about these things. I just know… that I like the way I feel when I'm near you."

Subaru broke into a huge smile. "You can't keep saying things like that to me, Mili. You might make me burst from happiness."

"That's not fair, Subaru! Don't change the subject! You still haven't told me how you feel about me!" Emilia scolded.

Subaru wrapped his arms around her a little tighter. She was close enough that their breath mingled in the cool evening air. "I think, you are the most amazing person I've met in any world," Subaru said seriously.

"Subaru…," Emilia whispered.

Subaru moved his face less than an inch and their lips met. The world around Subaru vanished and there was nothing but her. The living breathing vibrancy of her. The softness of her hair, the faint sound of her breathing, and the warmth of her body cradled in his arms. It was a blissful, perfect moment that Subaru felt should last for an eternity.

And then they drew apart.

Emilia glanced away shyly but she was still smiling.

"You know, I've been waiting for that moment since the day we met," Subaru whispered.

"Subaru, it's only been six days!" Emilia laughed.

"Really? It's been that little? Because it kind of feels like I've already known you for a lifetime," Subaru said seriously. He wrapped his arm around her waist and she briefly nuzzled against his shoulder as they continued their stroll.

"Me too," She whispered.

Subaru was singing to himself when he got up to his room.

Reinhard was in the process of readying himself for bed.

"Hey, Red, how are you doing?" Subaru said, plopping down on his bed and pulling his shoes off.

"Quite well," Reinhard said with a small smile, climbing into bed. "You certainly seem to be in fine spirits tonight."

"Yes I am! I'm on top of the world, buddy!" Subaru laughed, standing up to undress. Then Subaru thought of something, "Hey, Red, are you tired?"

"Not particularly, is there something you need help with?"

"No, I was just hoping to get a few more details about what happened in the capitol," Subaru said, sitting down on the bed.

Reinhard looked up at the ceiling and gathered his thoughts. "I arrived at the tavern and located Master Rom and Miss Felt. As you predicted, Miss Felt appeared to be in no danger of being caught by the guard any time soon. I explained the situation and Miss Felt agreed to help. I hid nearby while Felt was confronted by the guard and she gave them her statement," Reinhard hesitated. "I'm forced to admit that these knights did not live up to their titles."

"How so?"

"They threatened Miss Felt," Reinhard almost growled. "With physical violence and worse besides. These men are unworthy of any esteem much less any title of nobility!"

Subaru watched Reinhard closely for a moment. "I'm guessing you were close to these guards," Subaru said sadly.

Reinhard closed my eyes. "One of them was my father."

"I'm so sorry," Subaru murmured.

Reinhard took a deep breath and seemed to shake it off. "Not wanting to put Master Rom or Miss Felt in danger, I resolved to spend the night with them in case anyone came back to make mischief."

Subaru raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

"The next morning, I went to the castle to give testimony and met Lord Roswaal already there. The two of us spent hours giving testimony; the same questions and the same answers over and over again. This continued until I begged leave to go and fetch Master Rom and Miss Felt."

"Good thinking," Subaru commented.

"Yes," Reinhard murmured. "I found a large group of the guard waiting on the only road that Miss Felt could take to the castle. They quickly gave way before me but I have often wondered what they might have done if I had not been there."

Subaru nodded.

"I brought Master Rom and Miss Felt to the castle and they also gave testimony. It seemed that Lady Emilia would be disqualified until the sage council heard word of your exploits in Arlem. Then the vote shifted and Lady Emilia was permitted to continue."

"That's what I was hoping for. That's why I asked the Chief to send the message," Subaru said smugly.

"I again asked Miss Felt for hospitality and spent the night with her and Master Rom. The next morning I asked Felt if she would be willing to come to the manor with me and she agreed. I spoke with Lord Roswaal before leaving and then we came out here."

"Did Roswaal say when he was coming back?" Subaru asked.

"Not to me," Reinhard shook his head. "Miss Ram might know. He likely would have informed her of his plans in the missives."

"Right, I'll ask her in the morning," Subaru said. "Red, you brought Felt out here because you thought she might be in danger in the city, right?"

Reinhard nodded.

Subaru buried his face in his hands for a long moment and sighed. Finally he looked up at Reinhard. "Reinhard, tell me the truth: how much danger have I put Felt in by involving her in this mess?"

Reinhard considered the question carefully. "To be honest she has risen to the attention of powerful men and she is an easy target for anyone that she has offended or displeased. I would say her danger is considerable."

"What about Rom?" Subaru asked. "I mean, I know he's the size of a mountain but he could be in danger as well."

Reinhard shook his head. "Master Rom is well known in the city and very much not an easy target. He has a reputation of persuading assailants to go elsewhere to play after inflicting them with major injuries. Beyond that, his testimony was swift and affected little. I believe him to be in no danger."

"That's good at least," Subaru sighed and shook his head. "This whole thing with Felt is my fault, Red. I put her in danger and if she goes back to the capitol she could be in danger again."

"We could arrange for her to make a fresh start in Karangi," Reinhard murmured.

Subaru shook his head. "Hell, no! She might be in exile right now but that's a temporary thing. We're not going to send her away from everyone and everything she ever cared about. I asked her to do this. I put her in this danger. She did this because she thought she owed me. So now, and for the rest of her life, she is my responsibility. People think she's an easy target? We're going to fix that. When we go back to the capitol she is coming with us. At the selection ceremony, I am going to put Felt front and center so everyone knows that Felt is a major player in the Subaru/Emilia faction. People think they can go after her with impunity? I will make sure entire city knows that if anyone hurts Felt we will rain fire on them!"

Reinhard smiled broadly. "Fair words, my friend, and just what I thought you'd say. That was why I brought her out here. I thought you would feel better knowing she was close at hand to protect."

"Very good thinking, Red," Subaru sighed and laid down. "My debts to you keep growing. I wonder if I'll even live long enough to pay them all back."

"Not to worry, my friend. I shall extend you credit. We all know that you're good for your debts," Reinhard smiled.

"Heh. I think you've been spending too much time with a certain pickpocket of my acquaintance."

Reinhard laughed.

Felt sat outside Subaru's room in a borrowed yellow nightgown. She'd come over to their room to ask Reinhard a question but had quickly forgotten it as she listened to their conversation. As their talk trailed off and they drifted to sleep, Felt wordlessly got up and walked back to her room.

The next morning Reinhard and Subaru got up and headed downstairs for breakfast. Along the way they encountered Emilia and Felt.

"Subaru," Emilia whispered, looking tense.

"Morning, Mili," He frowned.

Why does Emilia look so nervous? Subaru thought.

"Subaru," Emilia twisted her fingers in her dress awkwardly. "We really need to talk."

Subaru hesitated a moment. "OK," He said slowly. "Red, why don't you and Felt go on without us. We'll be down in a bit."

Reinhard nodded and continued down to the dinning hall, pausing only to grab Felt when it became apparent that she intended to remain behind and watch.

"Is something wrong, Mili?" Subaru asked gently.

"No… well, yes. I mean, maybe," Emilia said helplessly.

Subaru walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her. Emilia stiffened for a moment and then relaxed with a sigh, burying her face in his chest. Subaru gently guided her to sit on a nearby window still. He sat beside her, rubbing her back.

"It's OK, Mili," He whispered. "Take your time and work your way up to it. Remember, you and I are a team and whatever the problem is, we will deal with it together."

Emilia looked up at him her eyes watery. "Subaru, do you… do you really mean that?"

"Of course, I do," Subaru said, rubbing her back. "Whatever the problem is, I know we can handle it. So just tell me what's bothering you."

"OK," Emilia took a deep breath. "Well it's about… last night."

"Last night?" Subaru swallowed hard. "Um. Do you think what we did last night was a bad idea?" He asked with a small catch in his voice.

"No! Well maybe. I mean, I liked it I'm just… I'm worried it was the wrong time," Emilia said, looking away.

The wrong time? For a kiss? I don't know how to interpret that!

Subaru sighed. "Emilia," He said gently. "What's really bothering you? I want to help but you have to tell me what's wrong."

Emilia took a deep breath and held it for a moment while looking Subaru straight in the eye. "It's about the baby in my tummy," She said.

Subaru stared at her.

"I'm sorry?" Subaru asked.

Emilia spoke in a rush, "I know that we're not married yet and I have no idea how to be a mother but I want to make sure that the baby has lots of love from the people who must love it. I know the royal selection will make things harder but that's not the baby's fault so I want to make sure that no matter what we have to do we give our baby a happy and stable life," She finished, gasping for breath.

I don't know what to say here. What's worse is I'm not sure I can refrain from laughing in Mili's face.

"OK, Mili," Subaru said, guiding her head back to his shoulder and rubbing her back. "I'm glad you told me about this. I always want to know about anything that's upsetting you," Subaru soothed.

Emilia relaxed against Subaru with a sigh as if announcing her pregnancy had taken every ounce of her courage.

"Emilia," Subaru said gently. "You do know that babies don't come from cabbages or storks or something, right?"

Emilia looked up at him. "Well, no. But when a boy and a girl kiss each other on the lips, that makes a baby right?"

Oh my God. Really? I can't handle this.

Subaru was so torn between amusement, relief, and sheer fury at a small, flying cat that he was afraid he was going to burst.

Subaru reached out to touch the gem around Emilia's neck. "Oooh, Puck!" He called.

The cat appeared in mid air with a yawn. "Listen, Subaru, just because we kind of bonded yesterday, it doesn't mean I'm going to start coming when you call."

"Puck, I'm starting to wonder if you might not have neglected a very important aspect of Emilia's education," Subaru said calmly.

"Like what?" Puck asked, his tail standing straight up and his arms folded defensively.

"Did you ever get around to telling her where babies come from?" Subaru asked.

Puck's tail fell at once. His face was aghast.

"So kissing doesn't make babies?" Emilia asked. "Not even on the lips?"

"Nope," Subaru answered.

"So where do babies come from?" She asked Puck.

Puck looked terrified. "You know, Subaru, I think I hear Betty calling me. But I have every confidence in your ability to handle this situation. Good luck!"

Puck disappeared.

Subaru stared at the empty space in astonishment. "Get back here, you stupid flying cat! You can't leave me to deal with this alone!" He yelled at empty air.

"Do you think Puck is mad at me?" Emilia asked.

"Nope," Subaru said, rubbing his forehead. "No, he's just a wimp and the next time you talk to him, please tell him that when I get my hands on him I'm going to smack his little paws."

"Subaru, are you… upset with me?" Emilia asked, looking at the floor.

Subaru took a deep breath and remembered himself. "Of course not, Mili," Subaru said, wrapping his arms around her. "I'm just a little annoyed with Puck. He should have explained these things to you years ago. The upshot is: You are not pregnant."

"You're sure?"

"Absolutely positively sure," Subaru assured her.

"Then, Subaru, where do babies come from?"

It took Subaru and Emilia about half an hour to go over the basics. During this time, Subaru took frequent advantage of Reason and Judgmentto pause time while he considered what to say.

I know I'm trying to limit my uses of Reason and Judgment except in emergencies, but if having to explain the facts of life to your girlfriend isn't an emergency then I don't know what is!

A virgin whose sexual expertise comes from watching hentai is explaining the mechanics of sex to an elf girl who thought you could get pregnant by kissing someone, but only on their lips. You couldn't make this stuff up.

By the end, Emilia was blushing furiously but she also seemed to be digesting what she'd been told. "So people do that when they want to have babies?"

"Well, people do that for a lot of reasons," Subaru replied slowly.

"Like what?"

"Well, it feels really good. And it's a good way of experiencing… intimacy with another person," Subaru explained.

"Have you had sex?"

"Nope," Subaru replied.

Huh. Normally that admission would be embarrassing. Right now it's probably the least embarrassing element of the conversation, Subaru thought.

"What did you mean by 'experiencing intimacy?'"

"Well," Subaru said, struggling to put the concept into words. "It's kind of like… kissing. It's wanting to be close to someone, as close as possible. It's wanting to share… the closest experience that two people can share."

"Do you want to be 'intimate' with me?" Emilia asked matter-of-fact.

Oh shit. Is there a right answer to this question? Somebody throw me a life preserver, I'm drowning here! Subaru thought.

Subaru coughed. "Yes. I do want to. But that is something… we will do… when we both feel ready. I'm in no hurry. I'm guessing it's normally done after marriage on this world anyway."

"Is it different where you come from?" She asked.

"Yeah, sex is a lot more casual back home."

"Then why haven't you had sex?"

Because in my former life I was a pathetic loser who rarely left his bedroom and no sane woman would touch me with a ten foot pole?

Subaru shrugged. "I never found the right woman," He said.

"But now you think that I'm the right woman?" Emilia asked with a slight blush.

"Yes," Subaru said, blushing as well.

"Well, I mean if you wanted to do… that, I think we could-" She said uncomfortably.

"You know, Mili," Subaru interrupted. "I think the wonderful part of romance is that things happen naturally. They happen when both people are comfortable enough with each other for them to happen."

Wait, why am I trying to talk her out of this? Am I really that big a wimp? If she's willing why shouldn't we just do it? Subaru asked himself.

Well, it's partly because: yes, you really can be that big a wimp. If you're this embarrassed by just talking about sex, picture yourself trying to do it. First time sex is always awkward but this would just be brutal. The other problem is that Emilia really isn't ready for this, no matter what she says and you know it. She might do it for you because she loves you, but don't you think Emilia deserves better than that? To be your experiment? If you really love her shouldn't you be willing to wait until she can be an equal participant in the experience rather than her just being a passenger along for the ride?

Wait a second. Did I really just think that?

Emilia might do it for me… because she loves me.

Because she loves me… could she… could she really start to love me?

Emilia gave him a half smile. "I guess if I tried to do that right now I'd be pretty embarrassed," She admitted, shaking Subaru out of his internal reverie.

"Yup, me too," Subaru replied. "But I think that one day, not too long from now, you'll think back to this moment and you'll think it was funny that you were ever worried about being embarrassed in front of me."

Emilia smiled at him.

"There is, of course, a bright side to this whole situation," Subaru added.

"What's that?"

"Now that you know that kisses won't get you pregnant, I'm hoping that I can get a lot more of them!" Subaru replied.

Emilia laughed. "I guess kisses aren't as big a deal as I thought."

"Mili," Subaru said in mock offense, pulling her onto his lap and wrapping his arms around her. "Kisses are an incredibly big deal!"

Emilia smiled at him and leaned in for a kiss.

It was another half an hour before Subaru and Emilia got downstairs which badly held up breakfast. It would have taken even longer except Felt, who was born hungry, came looking for them to find out what the holdup was.

Felt's mocking had been merciless as they finally got down to the table.

"You know, Felt, one day you'll be where I was," Subaru told her as he and Emilia took their seats. "And on that day, I promise to show you all the care and consideration you just gave me."

"Does the entire household need to discuss you and Lady Emilia's activities?" Ram asked in a bored tone.

"No, but I have a feeling that they will," Subaru sighed.

Reinhard and Felt dug into breakfast and a few minutes later Beatrice and Puck joined them at the dining table.

Subaru glanced at Rem and Ram who were standing nearby.

"You know, ladies, I don't think any of us currently here are particularly formal. You are welcome to sit and eat with us," Subaru said.

"That would be a breach of protocol," Ram said.

"I'm giving you permission-" Subaru started.

"We do not have permission," Ram snapped.

"Jeez, lady, lighten up! Subaru is trying to be nice to you-" Felt protested through a mouthful of eggs.

"Felt," Subaru interrupted. "I know from your experiences with Elsa that you have the world's worst 'stranger danger' sense so please try to learn from my mistakes: Never make Ram angry."

Felt looked at Subaru in confusion. "I thought Red said it was the blue haired maid who tried to kill you?"

Rem started at this.

"It was. Please let that provide context when I say that Ram is the one you really don't want to make angry," Subaru emphasized.

Felt thought about it then looked nervously up at Ram.

Ram sniffed.

Reinhard snapped his fingers. "Oh, Subaru, I forgot to give you this last night," He said, handing Subaru a large bag full of gold coins.

Subaru looked down at the enormous bag in awe. "Red, I can't take this from you!"

Reinhard frowned. Then his eyes widened. "Oh! It's not from me! This is the reward that the kingdom offers for the live capture of enemy officers."

"Oh, really?" Subaru said. "How much is it?"

"A Gusteko captain is worth six hundred gold pieces," Reinhard said.

Felt gave a low whistle.

"Well, at least our camp isn't broke anymore. We can finance some of our ideas. That's nice," Subaru commented to Emilia.

"OK, after breakfast," Subaru said. "I'd like to have a group meeting to go over some of the ideas that Emilia and I have come up with for the royal selection. Beatrice, if you're willing, I'd like to have you there too."

Beatrice snorted and looked away.

Well, she didn't respond with a flat 'no' so that's promising, Subaru thought.

"I'd also like you and Rem to attend if you're not too busy," Subaru told Ram.

"Why would we be involved?" Ram asked in a bored tone.

"Because Lord Roswaal isn't here and he deserves to have his interests represented. And you are the representatives of his interests," Subaru replied.

Ram stiffened then nodded. "I should attend to a few things first then," She said, walking out of the room.

"Take your time," Subaru called, watching Felt empty yet another plate. "I think we might be here awhile."