Subaru: So lemme get this "straight"...you decided to abandon me after the fight we encountered with Elsa and--- THEN run off to go train with Reinhard---

-Expresses his proposition on my unexpected departure-

Jiro: (Quietly) Yeah---

Subaru: What?! I could't grasp the retort...say that again <moving his ear closer to me>

Jiro: (Nervous) Errr----Yes.

Subaru: Ok, I see how it is...<remains silent>

-Turning his back towards me in betrayal-

Jiro: I'm sorry...Subaru. I----failed you...this was never meant to happen this way...but---

-Silencing himself before he said anything rash-

Subaru: BUT WHAT? JIRO! Why do you always gotta leave something important out? Like---me...

Jiro: What makes you think I left you behind on purpose?! As if you were ever a serious nuisance to me...because if you truly find it in your heart to lack forgiveness...then I should go <standing up from the bedside>

-My best friend clearly didn't seem to care as I was heading out the door...remaining quiet. I took one more step and before I reached for the door handle...<SLAP>- 

Subaru: Please....Don't....Go....Jiro.

Jiro: I thought you hate my guts....

Subaru: Well, people change <smiling at me> and I'm not one to hold such a huge grudge...especially towards a friend. <pulls me into a warm hug>

Jiro: (cries) I missed you, Subaru. Dearly...

Subaru: Hehe, that's quite surprising...coming from a "quiet kid"...

Jiro: Shush...<smirking>

-Releasing from each other's grasp, he pulls an arm over me and explains what recently happened-

Subaru: You got a lot of catching up to do..."Old Friend".

Jiro: For you as well, Nat...why don't we have a drink, huh?

Subaru: I hope you don't mean alcohol....<smack>

Jiro: (Shakes his head) Baka! Of course not, we're underaged after all! Can't go risking our health at such a prime age...

Subaru: Fine....but damn....last time I remember....your "meat swing" didn't hit so hard.

Jiro: Meat swing! Ewwww....

-Realizing what he just said, Subaru's face becomes red as beetroot and waves his hands-

Subaru: (Embarrassed) I TAKE IT BACK, I MEANT---UMM---UMM.

-Chuckling at his goofiness, I grab his hand and brought him outside into the hallway-

Jiro: I do miss these moments we have, don't you agree?

Subaru: Sure. But. Could. You. Let. Go. Of. My. Hand. First.

-While he told me to let go, I began to squeeze it tightly before releasing it-

Subaru: OUCH! What did you do that for?

Jiro: I heard from a scientific theory that crushing the hand of someone who hardly works makes their soft hand denser...hehe

Subaru: Very funny....NOT...such a lame joke...never say anything like that again.

Jiro: (Eyes rolled) Whatever...can we go? I'm starving...

Subaru: Oh yeah, I forgot...Rem-Rem and Ram-Ram!

Jiro: Wait...What...<confused> what kind of name is that?

Subaru: Just a nickname I came up with...

-Thinking to myself, that was so uncreative NAT-SUCKI-

Jiro: Ugh---Dork.

Subaru: Hey, at least I tried...A for Effort?!

Jiro: There's no "A" in effort but there's an "E" in "failure"...something you grasp at doing often.

Subaru: (Hurt) Why you little---

???: Barusu. Dinner is Ready...

-Appearing in front of us was a short, petite, girl with light pink hair-

???: Ah, Mr. Ren <courtesy bow> nice to finally see you're awake...splendid. If you follow me.

Jiro: And whom might I be speaking to, beautiful?! 

???: My name is Ram...

-She responded in a empty tone-

Jiro: Umm, nice to meet you...Please call me Jiro...

Ram: I'll remember that...now if we may proceed...your food will become cold. Everyone else is waiting...

Jiro: Yup...lead the way...

-As we began walking to the dining hall, Subaru whispered next to me-

Subaru: Dude...that's the first time she didn't lash out at a guest.

Jiro: What makes you say that? She seems pretty nice.

Subaru: For a while...watch and see...Ram will make your life here a living---

Ram: What was that, Barusu?! <cutting in on our conversation> 

Subaru: Nothing! To concern yourself with...

Ram: Hmm...

-Reaching over to the door, I found myself locked onto the room...pretty big for a large mansion...probably could fit in...let's say 20 members tops- 

???: Ah, so the blonde has finally awoke from his nap. Welcome!

-Unknowingly bow to the people in the room, one person caught my attention...she looked absolutely-

Jiro: (Lustful eyes) Gorgeous----

-Drooling a little bit in awe, Subaru pulls my chin up to prevent the "leak"-

Subaru: HAHA! He meant to say food...RIGHT <elbowing me>

Jiro: OH! OF COURSE! WHERE ARE MY MANNERS?! MY NAME IS REN JIRO!

???: Someone call out my name--- <carrying a platter of soup on the tray>

-Whispering to the guy in some sort of clown costume- 

???: No, my darling...it was actually our guest introducing himself. Ren Jiro.

???: Oh...

-Walking up to her, I bent over and kissed her hand softly-

Jiro: And whom might you be if I may ask?

-Swiping her hand quick, she seemed shy but answers-

???: My name is Rem...It is wonderful to meet you, Jiro. Your "friend" has spoken quite highly about you...

Jiro: He has...<smug> well, that's good to hear.

-Feeling my back collar being tugged on, Subaru pulls me over and slams me into a seat-

Subaru: Why don't you just sit down for once and shut up?

Jiro: Damn, what's gotten into you? Hangry? 

Subaru: Actually, yes. I am. Unlike you, people like me have to work around here everyday...

Jiro: Why? Aren't you supposed to be a guest? 

Subaru: Yes, but---

???: Subaru wanted to work under my employment as the personal butler...

Jiro: (Evil smile) Splendid...

Subaru: Great...another problem I need to deal with inside this freaking mansion...

-Patting him on the cheek, I urged him not to worry-

Jiro: Don't be so glum...I won't bother you so much...unless you piss me off

Subaru: I guess that works out...

???: See, everything is going to be "alright". We shouldn't have to stress ourselves out so much...

Jiro: If I may ask politely, who are you?

???: My, I must've forgot to introduce myself <resting his face>. I am Lord Roswaal...the owner of this fine residence. You've probably heard about me inside the capital...

Jiro: No...I actually haven't...sorry.

Roswaal: I understand. Nothing to be offended about..anyways, where is Ms.----ah there she is...Welcome...

-Turning my head to see Subaru's "Girlfriend" again, and a loli...this evening keeps getting weirder-

Emilia: (Happily smiles) JIRO! It's been awhile...

Subaru: (Jealous) You two know each other...

Emilia: Of course, he's the one who told me to bring you back here...safely...

-Seeing as how graceful and kind she is, Subaru did not pick the wrong girl XD-

Jiro: I'm so glad to see such another "familiar" again...how've you been?

-Drinking some water, I looked over to her sitting across from me-

Emilia: You know...just training for the royal election...

-Spatting at my water in Subaru's face...he was definitely pissed off-

Subaru: DUDE. WHAT THE HELL?! 

Jiro: (Chuckles) Sorry---that was very rude of me...

???: I am starting to like this boy---who is our new guest, baka?

Subaru: This is Jiro....the guy I spoke so "highly" of...but now, he's starting to become a pain in the ass...

Jiro: That's my name... <rubs his head nervously> whom might you be, loli?

???: Hmph, what does even mean? But, if you're so desperate to find out...my name is Beatrice. 

Jiro: Beatrice...such a rare name to come by. Nice. 

Beatrice: Not to be rude, but why are you here?

Roswaal: Please, Beatrice. He's our guest...the boy has his own reasons...

Jiro: I do...mainly for the sake of visiting an "old friend"...

Beatrice: Love at first sight...so admirable...makes me wanna puke.

Jiro: We're not lovers---<awkward feeling>

Beatrice: Hmm... <crosses her arms> 

-Whispering to Subaru, I had a few questions-

Jiro: OK, what's wrong with her? Does she already hate me?

Subaru: Don't know...but Beatrice does throw a feisty tantrum if you disturb while she is reading.

Jiro: Ahh...<catching the loli's attention> So, you are a bookworm?

Beatrice: I suppose...but I'm actually a mage who keeps Lord Roswaal's tomes and other items protected from the eyes of someone like you...

Jiro: Ouch...<feeling something nip my ankle> what the?

-Spotting to find the same floating cat from that night, he must be Emilia's pet-

Puck: Meow there, Jiro.

Jiro: Huh, who is this adorable little creature <stroking it's chin>

Puck: Stop it...stop it... <purring in satisfaction>

-Seeing the loli get jealous, she begged Puck to come over to her-

Beatrice: Oh, Puck. Don't you wanna be next to me?

Puck: Of course, Beatrice...but this boy...has really soft hands for a human...

Beatrice: Awww, please Jiro. <pleading for me to stop>

Jiro: Alright...because you do remind me of my little sister...here you go. <picking up Puck and handing him over to her>

Beatrice: Thank you... <rubbing her face against Puck> 

-Noticing this act of kindness, the blue hair girl I saw earlier looks at me in a funny way...is my face covered in food?- 

Jiro: Anyways...

Emilia: Jiro. If you don't mind...I do have some questions for you...but just for now...ONE

Jiro: Fire away, I guess?

Emilia: How is your sister doing? Felt? Is she safe? 

Jiro: Umm....she's quite alright actually--- <twirling the soup around in circles> 

Emilia: That's good to hear...hopefully she's not in any trouble after stealing that insignia...I thought Reinhard was sending somewhere bad-

Jiro: Nope. Nothing at all. She's perfectly fine. Yup. No need to worry.

-Leaving something important out...I couldn't risk the idea of her in trouble by two words..."the palace"...that would create controversy and conflict within the castle. Especially once they figure out, I might have something to do with this.-

Jiro: WAIT? <checking around his waist, the sheath disappeared> no...no...no...not again...

Roswaal:  <showing a sliver of mokkinbãdo> I found this off your unconscious body once the villagers brought you to this mansion. I'm surprised such a young man like yourself acquired this...ancient relic of the bygone age

Jiro: Please...Give that back to me...It's really important...

-Noticing the worried look on my face, everyone watch as I began to frighten in fear of such a possession. Especially Subaru.-

Roswaal: My boy, I just wanted to inspect the weapon to know what it is...that's all. Here you go. 

-Handing it over to Rem, she came over and gave it to me...peering out a faint smile. I got Mokkinbãdo back-

Jiro: Thank you Roswaal. I'll keep a closer eye on it for now on...

Roswaal: 

Jiro: Old man Rom handed it over to me that night inside the warehouse. Then, after...this blade has been by my side ever since. Sometimes, some nights...and some days, there always lied a voice calling me out. I don't know whom but I like to think it's someone important to me

Roswaal: (Laughing) Well, I must admit. You are full of surprises, Mr. Ren. Don't worry. Your secret is safe with us...

Jiro: I appreciate it, sir. <nodding>

Roswaal: Oh my, won't you look at the time! <seeing as the clock was reaching noon> I am going to be quite busy today with a deal of many things that require my guidance.

Jiro: I understand. It was a pleasure meeting you.

Roswaal: Au revoir, Jiro. I'll see you again very soon.

-Arising from his seat, the lord departed to do his daily routine...leaving the rest of us alone-

Subaru: So...any other news you wanna talk about, Jiro?

Jiro: Nothing really of importance. Maybe later... <moving his eyes>

-He saw the maid picking up dishes, the other twin...Rem-

Jiro: I got that <holding onto the bowl> why don't you go ahead and rest?

Rem: I wouldn't mind sir, but this is strictly my protocol. But, as you wish... <bowing>

-Watching her leave and enter into the kitchen, Subaru had a stupid look on his face-

Subaru: Well, Jiro. I can clearly see you're turning out to be a man with "interests"

Jiro: (Blushing) What do you mean? 

Subaru: Telling by your reaction, you have a serious---

Beatrice: OH PUCK! Do you wanna spend time with me in the library today?

Puck: I don't mind...unless it's alright with you, "daughter"

Emilia: Hehe, that's fine Puck. I have to prepare for the upcoming ceremony.

-Beatrice carried Puck away like a wrapped baby into the corridors...leaving the trio intact-

Jiro: Hmm, well then! What do you plan on doing today, Subaru?

Subaru: Since, it is my "first day" as a butler...I plan on cleaning up the garden and around the mansion...after that...I don't know...

Jiro: That sounds like "work", huh. Have fun!

Subaru: And what do you think you're doing, mister? Lounge around and let the three of us serve you.

Jiro: (Confident) Yeah! Pretty much! You are the one who said you wanted to work as their servant...

Subaru: True....also, Jiro. Do you mind, umm helping me out with cleaning?

Jiro: You aren't being very persuasive...but alright! I'll help you!

Subaru: Thanks---

Jiro: But, you owe me! 

Subaru: Aww, man...

Jiro: I know...it's rough buddy <patting him on the back>

-A DAY OR TWO LATER-

As time progressed and the light began to fade, Subaru asked me earlier if I wanted to go to Irlam village...of course being the good friend I am, I agreed to his request. But, wondering whether he left something out or not...he was definitely hiding something from me. Kids...were spotted around the fence with mystical green crystals surrounding the village, probably some sort of barrier to keep things out, but anyways my friend called me along because he's on a "date" with Emilia. Finding him to be extremely happy with the girl he's fallen for is truly heartwarming and I can't judge him for that. Walking around the village, I spoke with some of the parents there whom saved my life, grateful for their consideration, I planned on returning the favor...

Subaru: Oi, Jiro! Come over here

???: Yeah, get over here barnacle face.

Jiro: Grrr-who just said that?

-Looking at each other, they all pretended that nothing happened-

Jiro: Natsuki....

Subaru: Yes, Jiro?

Jiro: Once we return, you're gonna get it.

Subaru: Pffhtt, whatever <waves his hand away> 

-Moving over to see the children surrounding a black haired puppy, it was missing some hair on the top-

Jiro: And whom might this little fella be?

???: We don't know...we found him stranded in the backyard. He probably wants a rub.

Jiro: I do love dogs---

-Reaching over to try petting the little mongrel, it growled at me in vicious intent...which made pull my hand back-

Jiro: Welp, I ain't rubbing that 'thing'. Forget it.

Subaru: Stop being such a wuss, Jiro. That's why girls won't like---OUCH! 

-Spotting to see his hand bitten by the mutt, he began bleeding-

Subaru: What did you do that for?

-Wrapping a piece of cloth around his hand, the girl with the red headband approached us-

???: I'm so sorry, Subaru. I didn't expect him to bite anyone, especially you.

Subaru: Haha, don't worry about it, just a scratch...he just nibbled on my skin. That's all.

Jiro: (Disbelief) Uh-huh...

-Pulling his hand away, he told me it was time to go...he had something planned apparently-

Subaru: Oh, I must be heading out now, sorry guys. I'll come back tomorrow.

???: Awww, don't go...

Jiro: Sorry, kiddos. Maybe another time.

???: Ok, see you soon 

-After walking off, all the children waved to us...making me reflect on how my life could've been...my childhood-

TIMESKIP (HOURS AHEAD)

The moment has come for us to lure out the culprit...figuring out that Subaru wasn't going to tell me anything, I had to investigate on my own to collect clues based on what he's hiding from me. Seeing Emilia upset by our unexpected departure, I knew he was lying...

Emilia: I can't believe you're leaving so soon, Subaru? Where might you be going?

Subaru: Hmm, I'll probably venture out into the unknown with my buddy, aye Jiro.

-Going along with you sounds like the perfect plan...I can't wait to  <sarcastic>-

Jiro: Yeah, Natsuki! Spending more time with each other sounds like an excellent idea. 

Subaru: Anyways, I appreciate everything you did for us, Emilia! Won't forget about it.

Emilia: Thank you...come back whenever you get the chance alright? Stay safe for me, ok?

Subaru: Are you confessing already, Emilia? Ouch!

-Smacking him upside the head, I pull on his back collar whilst I carried the luggage-

Jiro: I'm grateful for the time we shared...but we must get going!

Subaru: Hai! See ya guys later!

Emilia: (Bright smile) Goodbye, Subaru...

LATER

Chats with my best friend always bought along time for us to catch up...seeing as he didn't really plan to leave soon, Subaru wanted to execute a trap for the enemy...walking up the cliffside to stalk the entrance of the mansion, we sat there for a couple hours...

Jiro: Tell me the truth, why are we hiding up here like a bunch of creeps? What are you not telling me?

Subaru: Well, isn't it quite obvious Jiro? 

Jiro: Obvious about what?

Subaru: I can't tell you exactly...or can I?

Jiro: Say it already, no need to hide secrets from me!

Subaru: I died once before...

Jiro: Seriously?! 

Subaru: Yeah, twice...

Jiro: How? Is there someone in the mansion conspiring against you? An assassin perhaps?

Subaru: Probably, but I can't grasp who though...

Jiro: So then, how did I not respawn back to the latest savepoint.

Subaru: (Shrugs) How should I know? Maybe, you're just like me.

Jiro: Unlikely because the first time I died, both of us were killed and the world went on full restart...meaning you have the power to go back in time? I guess?!

Subaru: If I recall correctly, your estimation about my death affecting the entire story is true. Because, you were killed in the warehouse that night by Elsa, hours before I found you dead beneath my feet. But, when I died, everything I went through cleared as if nothing happened.

Jiro: Let's just cut the chatter...and get outta here. It's already getting dark and we should just return before---<hearing a rumble of chains incoming> SUBARU GET DOWN!

-Spotting  a spiked ball aim at my legs before I was able to dodge it in time. Subaru got away from the surprise attack...which stuck to the nearby tree-

Subaru: (Held onto the chain while pulling) Who are you? 

-Seeing as the shadow did not want to come out-

Jiro: We can settle this peacefully, if you but show yourself.

Subaru: Screw that...he or she killed me twice already...I'm not letting it happen a third time.

Jiro: Don't get overconfident, Natsuki. This is an opponent whom we shouldn't underestimate. We still have no clue who it is...

Subaru: REVEAL YOURSELF COWARD! I WON'T ASK AGAIN!

-Hearing the assassin carrying the rigid chain...Subaru pulls harder to find out who this assailant was...and as he/she moved forward, the foot steps became lighter...and they finally reveal themselves-

Subaru: REM!!!

Jiro: (Scared) Is this Hell? If so...I don't deserve to be here!

8/27/20