-TIMESKIP-

His death has not come without cost...the "Restart" we need has brought enough time. During the time I've spent with him, the countless times he suffered through, Subaru deserves a break. Wanting to go ahead and carry all the heavy burdens for him, he disagreed saying how my task should be to find out who's truly responsible for this violence...but my friend doesn't seem to grasp that I need him and can't do it without him. So, during dinner...I told Lord Roswaal I plan to become their newest butler in his stead...making him furious after dinner ended. I didn't care. Anything to lift the burden...Still, he's a rational boy with a brave heart...who's willing to do whatever it takes to help his friends. Asking Ram or Rem if he could help, they agreed and provided him suitable clothes for the job. Throughout today, he was able to work extremely hard but overexert himself too much. I could compare him to Rem in a way, she never catches a break and continuously seeks out any form of task to complete. It is truly admirable but hard to watch while your friend is doing everything he can to save the lives of those he cares about. So, I took in more duties and did them earlier in the morning before he had the chance, that includes peeling the potatoes, scrubbing the toilets, cutting the grass, and trimming the hedges. Now, he is pissed off at me for being mindful and considerate because he knew I did it for him...Because I would do anything for him...almost...anything...

Subaru: JIRO!

Jiro: <watering the plants> Hey, Subaru! Good morning....

Subaru: WHY?! 

Jiro: (Confused) Why what? You gotta be more specific---

Subaru: Why would you go ahead and work without us? Can't you see I'm trying to gain their trust...

Jiro: Subaru...I'm pretty sure they trust you enough...

Subaru: Yeah. Probably YOU. But, ME...they can't stand the sight of me failing all the time...

Jiro: Well, you never took the opportunity to learn new things...that's why your hands are cut open! You should find a healer...Maybe Emilia could---

Subaru: NO! I won't let that happen...

Jiro: Sounds to me like you don't trust her...

Subaru: Of course, I do. After, everything she has done for me---my sweet E---

Jiro: Don't even start...

Subaru: Start what? 

Jiro: With that bullshit...I know you more than you think, Natsuki.

Subaru: Oh! Do you now?! Tell me! I'm "dying" to find out!

Jiro: First...the posture you're presenting expresses how tired you are...meaning you need rest. Second, your characteristic as a selfish individual is something I always found in you. Especially if someone owes you in return...like Emilia.

-Pushing me towards the ground, the flower pot shattered and the hose water drenched my clothes-

Subaru: (Yelling) SO, you think I'm selfish...Hah! Don't make me laugh, Ren Jiro! You're not perfect either. The thought of maintaining pride stuck with you ever since we met. You only care about finding success but I've never seen you achieve anything out of your ambition...

-Someone heard us bicker like a married couple, and came over to split us up-

 Emilia: Hey? What are you guys doing?! 

-She saw me in a complete mess, and I wanted to be alone- 

Jiro: (Smiles) It's nothing...just two friends tossing each other around. I have completed my task today, Ms. Emilia. Now...if you excuse me, I need a bath...

Puck: Yeah, Jiro. I can say you smell bad...especially after working so hard these past two days.

Jiro: Thanks--- <dusting myself off> I must be going now, see you guys soon.

-Leaving the courtyard, I went inside the mansion to get soaked.-

Emilia: What happened to you guys? 

SUBARU'S POV

Subaru: He's just---ugh---annoying.

Emilia: Sit...you could explain it to me.

-Sitting down together, Emilia sat beside me on the bench while Puck floated around-

Subaru: Jiro has been acting odd in a way...more as if he is now becoming more of a bother than a helping hand. 

Puck: And you're mad at him for working around the field? Why?

Subaru: Well, he's outshining me in every topic...and I feel as if pride prevents Jiro from thinking clearly. Always expecting him to get everything right, and with no problems...

Emilia: I see...so Jiro is making you feel 'bad' about yourself?

Subaru: Y-Y-Yes! That's how I'm feeling...how did you know?

Emilia: Well, people I've met gloated about their "achievements" they made in their life which always made me fell I couldn't live up to them...because...everyone sees me as the W---

-Closing her mouth to speak no further, I felt pity for Emilia. She just wanted to be recognized...not for her half-elf heritage but for her "accomplishments". Finding out people overlook her is wrong and neglectful. No one deserves this type of pain. To feel alone.-

Subaru: Well, I-for-one am someone that sees you differently. You are a gifted person with a lot of pressure on your shoulder. People are single-minded and can only spot you as some scary half-elf. But, I don't think thats who you are inside. You're kind, gentle, loving, and determined to show the rest who you truly are...A Good Person!

-Emilia sat down in silence...but smirks when he claimed her to be a nice person...someone who really wanted to help others-

Emilia: So...am I your friend?

Subaru: Hmm...I would agree...that we are! Yes!(I want to be more than just a friend!)

Emilia: (Smiles) Thank you, Subaru! I am glad we're friends! 

Subaru: Me too...oh wait! Puck!

-Spotting the cat fallen asleep in the air, I took ahold of the furry creature and stroked his fur...rubbing my face against his...Puck began purring-

Puck: What is it, Subaru?

Subaru: I have a serious question! 

Puck: About what?

Subaru: MAGIC! 

Puck: OH! And what might you have in mind?

Subaru: Do I possess any?! If so...what is it?

Puck: (Yawns) It can vary...there are six elements after all!

Subaru: Huh?! 

Emilia:  Fire (火 Hi), Water (水 Mizu), Wind (風 Kaze), Earth (土 Tsuchi), Yin (陰 In), and Yang (陽 Yō).

Subaru: I CAN'T WAIT? So...how does it work?

Emilia: Well, luckily I am a spirit user so Puck here...could help you find out for certain?! Do you want to know your magical element?

Subaru: (Excited) YES PLEASE! 

Puck: Alright...now stand still and don't move... <pressing his tail onto my forehead> 

-All I could hear was glowing, hum sounds from the white light...finally finishing...Puck told me-

Puck: Yin (陰 In)?! Odd...

Subaru: Shadow?! 

Emilia: That is very rare...

Subaru: AWESOME! So...what can I do? Morph into the darkness?

Puck: Possibly, but I've never fought someone with that form or technique. 

Subaru: This day keeps getting better and better. Now, if you excuse me...I need to finish my duties...

-Exiting the courtyard and into the mansion, I was overjoyed with the magic abilities I've gained-

Puck: I wonder...what that 'blonde' boy's magic element is?

Emilia: Hmm, I am curious.

JIRO'S POV (INSIDE THE MANSION)

Who in the hell does Subaru think he is?! To embarrass me in front of our friends and most likely.. speak behind my back... I shouldn't care about these sort of petty things but it really hurt me inside to find out...how alone I've been since I gotten here. No one seems to bother asking how I'm doing...or whether they wanted to hangout. Especially Subaru...But, I might as well take my mind off of it <scrubbing the bathroom floors harder>. 

???: You are up early, Jiro?

-That familiar voice had to be one of the twins but I didn't know who...so looking up. There she was. The pink version...-

Jiro: Hey, Ram. Had enough sleep...

Ram: (Yawns) Yes, but I suggest you get some rest, Jiro...you've been up---

Jiro: Quite awhile <smiles> I know but there's much work to be done.

-Washing off the dirt and stains, the floor was glossier than before-

Ram: I am impressed with your work, Jiro. This effort nearly competes with my sister...well done.

Jiro: Thanks <continues to scrub>

-I heard the pink maid exhale in frustration, making me wonder...what's got into her?-

Ram: Please...Jiro... <places a hand on my shoulder> Take a day off for now...

Jiro: (Arrogant) But, I still haven't finished the---

Ram: That doesn't concern me right now. You do...so please, relax for today...

-Dropping the sponge, I got up off the bathroom-

Jiro: But, I have nothing else to do then... <truthful> it's not like--- <pauses>

-Ram saw me shy from my response and noticed something was wrong-

Ram: Is Barusu bothering you?

Jiro: W-W-What? No... <lying>

Ram: I can tell by your expression that you just lied to me...I see Barusu has made you feel constantly upset these past few days...and watching as both of you arguing like a married couple is rather strange...Wanna tell me about it?

Jiro: N-No...but that is sweet of you...I have my own battles to fight and if Subaru is holding a grudge against me, I plan on ignoring it. He's still my friend but...the guy hardly understands what I'm going through for the sake of him... <walks off and pats his shoulder> Please go easy on him today, Ram. Subaru has been through a lot, and I should know better than to 'judge' him

Ram: Certainly...inform me if anything goes wrong today, <looks at the clock> I should be heading out now, my sister is waiting for me at the courtyard...

Jiro: Of course... <bows> have a good rest of your day, Ram...tell your sister I said hello.

-Moving over to the towel rack, she went towards the door and replies-

Ram: You can tell her "that" yourself, Jiro... <winks>

-Shutting the door, I was able to dip in my free-time. Jumping right into the big tub, I relaxed-

Jiro: Hmmm, <taps his lip> What should I do today? OH! MAYBE---YEAH---I'LL GO DO THAT!

TIMESKIP (The Hour of Dawn)

My schedule was open this afternoon, and there was someone I wanted to humbly thank for the getting me here...the dragon rider...acknowledging the fact I died before and this was a complete restart. He probably wasn't angry at me...hopefully! Anyways, I came across the old lady in the village and spoke with her...

Old Woman: My dear child, we meet again!

Jiro: Hello there...I just came by to check up on a good man.

Old Woman: Oh..that's very kind of you, he is asleep inside the cabin. Try not to wake him so quickly. The man's body has took a toll due to the recent attack that day. Some cracked ribs and cuts but nothing serious or life-threatening! You can thank me for stitching that poor bastard up.

Jiro: Thank you for saving him...I owe this village a lot. <holding onto the handle> May I? 

Old Man: Absolutely, young man... <smiles>

-Creaking the door open, I noticed the escort wasn't awake...so taking a wooden chair near the desktop, I turned it around backwards and sat there...waiting...

LATER (15 minutes)

Dragon Rider: Excuse me, my friend...for passing out. I apologize for not knowing you would be here...

-Arising from my chair, I went over to the guy and sat beside him...with great joy-

Jiro: I should be the one apologizing to you. Your eyes clearly show how much pain is being held...and it's unfair...for me to watch helplessly as you protect me...

Dragon Rider: Well, we all risk our lives for someone...even if they are a stranger...

Jiro: But Why? Why save me...I don't understand...

Dragon Rider: Every action has a purpose...and I desired to save an innocent boy from harm...especially after coming so far to see his best friend again...that's why I called out for help even if I was badly injured.

Jiro: I don't know how to repay such kindness...

Dragon Rider: (laughs) I do have one...how about you help me fix my damn wagon, then I'll consider it... 

Jiro: Okay, Mr. Chuckles...You got yourself a deal <holding out his arm>

Dragon Rider: Whatever...squirt...don't think this is over...I plan on making my name known across the entire continent someday. Children will read stories about my adventures...someday. Mark my words, boy! 

Jiro: Hey, I ain't one to question dreams! 

-Standing up, I brewed some tea in the meantime as we spoke-

Jiro: So...what do you plan on doing after you finish healing...

Dragon Rider: First, the wagon needs to be repaired...and I pray to the gods, Yui is alright...

Jiro: I'll ask around town...maybe I could find her somewhere...

Dragon Rider: That sounds splendid, if you have a hard time tracking her...try whistling and present her meat...if not...she'll chew your head off.

Jiro: (Terrified) Really? Thanks for the tip! 

Dragon Rider: No problem...and besides Yui is friendly if she recognizes your scent.

Jiro: I'll probably check out the woods...

Dragon Rider: I wouldn't do that if I were you...the Mabeasts lie beyond the border of the village. You'll be torn to shreds...

Jiro: Possibly, but I did acquire strong allies...friends you can say...I trust them.

-Nodding at my response, I looked outside to see the sun going down...I had to go-

Jiro: Welp, I must be going...or else Subaru will 'roast' me alive

Dragon Rider: I don't doubt it. I would do the same...because I hate you so much...

Jiro: Awe...touching remark. I'll remember that... <before he headed out> could I ask you something?

Dragon Rider: Go ahead kiddo, what is it?

Jiro: I've never gotten to find out your name...do you mind telling me? 

Dragon Rider: I hardly trust people around these parts of Lugnica but you seem like a nice boy so...yeah...here it goes...my name is--- <gasping>

Jiro: (Curious) Yes....spill it already.

Dragon Rider: Alright, kiddo. Jeez...stop being so hasty...the name's---Boseman.

Jiro: That's a strange name...but I like it...unique and very interesting...Well, Boseman...We shall meet again, soon my friend <held out my hand>

Boseman: <shook my hand> Certainly! Be careful out there, kid...Mabeasts are dangerous creatures...most people run from those mutts...

Jiro: I can assure you, I'm not like "most" people...

Boseman: Overconfidence will get you killed one day. Definitely your pride...

Jiro: Yeah---I heard that before...Farewell, Boseman.

Boseman: See you around kid...and always have "hope"...you'll figure this out...

-Exiting the cabin, I waved one last time before walking up the trail to the mansion-

Jiro: Why must life be so difficult? Much work to be done if I want to save Rem...and everyone else.

TIMESKIP 

As I entered Lord Roswaal's home, I came across clean tiles and spotless walls...someone was working hard...but who? Thinking to be Rem, I can't say she doesn't work hard but during this time...she's mostly on break...furthermore, I need rest after a long day...meeting Boseman and the villagers was entertaining...and I enjoyed my time over there...the children were playful as always...but one thing bothered me...one of them went messing....I can just sense that someone was gone but no one knew...my brain went blank...

Jiro: No idea...

-Running upstairs...I almost reached my room until the sound of sobbing caught my attention. Was a pretty girl crying...I wanted to know-

???: You're allowing me to rest? On your lap?

???: Yes...you did ask before for a lap pillow...and I don't mind...

???: Really? <staring up>

???: Don't stare... <pokes the person's head down>

-Listening to a familiar voice, I heard them confess about exhaustion, pain, and sorrow...and someone began to cry-

???: (Crying) Do you think he hates me, Emilia? After all I've done to him...and after everything I put him through... Am I a terrible friend?

-Freezing in position, I finally realized who was crying...it wasn't Emilia...but my best friend...Subaru? Why did he sound so depressed?-

Emilia: No...Subaru...you aren't a terrible friend.... <stroking his hair, he continued to cry more> Because, he's probably just in a lot of pain like you right now. Confused and helpless. Both of you seem to carry the burdens without anyone knowing. Jiro isn't the type of person who'll hate you for one bad argument...because he focuses on the other aspects life has to offer...he tells us all the time, "i'm alright...i'm fine...I need to be alone" but in honesty...he's suffering inside...and doesn't know what he can do anymore to be rid of this feeling...much like you...

Subaru: I'm not hurt completely.

Emilia: Don't lie to me, Natsuki Subaru! 

Subaru: ...............I admit...my faults... <tears dropping> the problems I've made in my life has always been pointed out to the one's closest to me...Jiro...and I feel....anger...towards...him.

Emilia: (Gentle) Why are you angry with him?

Subaru: Because...He compels me to experience shame...most people wouldn't possibly understand...since they always see themselves as perfect specimen...like Jiro. He has done everything for the meaning of success and leaves me behind in the dust to face disappointment. I just---<choking on his words> ---I just---want him---to know---what he's doing---makes me pity my existence---he demonstrates 'entitlement' and forces to lead others by example...which is something he does every single time we construct a plan together. Never wanting to listen...never wanting to do it my way...I'm tired...of him being so damn prideful....it gets on my nerves...

Emilia: Pride is a sin, Subaru...and most people judge others based on their status and accomplishments. But, if you allow that to intervene...what good does it do when you find out. You are alone and have no one else to point to...We all fail sometimes in who we're supposed to be...

Subaru: Failure....that's what my life was built upon....and I hate it...

Emilia: But, do you truly hate him, Subaru? For making you feel like a failure?

Subaru: I---I---I

-Slouching against the wall, I was willing to accept the truth...that he does hate me-

Subaru: No...

-My eyes began to blur and water as I listened to him-

Subaru: There's nothing I wouldn't do in the world for him...because Jiro has always stuck by my side...sure we have complications but we're a team...we make up for it...especially since...we---we---umm---are brothers...

Emilia: Are you seriously brothers...you don't quite look like it? 

Subaru: Not biologically...but in terms of friendship...I see him more as my 'brother'. And it grieves me to find out how much I've made him suffer...endlessly...due to my selfish acts...and my cruel 'fate'... All the battles we fought together, I realized now...how much I needed him. My life would've been lonesome without Jiro in the picture. I am truly in his debt...<sobbing>

Emilia: Let it all out! Shh-shhh-shhh... <caressing his head gently> Sleep, Subaru...

-Closing his eyes, Him & Emilia remained in the room...until it was calm..moving away from the door, my feet made noise-

Emilia: (Whispers) Is someone there? Hello?

-Pausing to admit I got caught...I revealed myself to her with a smile-

Emilia: He's asleep now...doesn't he look so peaceful? 

Jiro: He sure does...and I am grateful for your support...Subaru clearly needs you...

Emilia: I bet he does... and don't worry...I just wanted to return the favor--- <stroking his hair>

Jiro: Please take good care of him, tonight...he means 'everything' to me...<smiles at her>

Emilia: Seeing the happiness in your smile makes me believe...you truly love him.

8/29/20--->8/30/20