THE FOLLOWING DAY...

I arose the next morning to lure out the mastermind, having no idea of who it might be. I was tasked to become the bait in order to identify the shaman. It won't be easy and I have a terrible memory but this is the only way...so I went throughout my routine as I normally do and continue working around the mansion. My conscience kept telling me to reveal the truth to Subaru...but I don't exactly know how he'll react once I tell him I did this whole planning thing alone. Anyways, he's been ignoring me lately, but one of these days...I hope we can finally bond and mutually respect each other's wishes. Scrubbing the floors, and cleaning the dishes today, it was getting quite hefty and tiring at the same time, but I didn't care...so I picked up the bucket of gloss and unexpectedly, a friend stood right behind me. 

Jiro: (Smirks) Good morning, Ram!

Ram: Morning, Jiro...

Jiro: (Arches eyebrow) Do you mind telling me, why you were standing behind me?

-Walking off, she responded-

Ram: I've came across you, that's all. And I have an assignment for you...

-As I stood and listen to the pink, petite maid...she had something important to say-

Jiro: (Attentive) How kind of you to stop by, though? Please...take a seat, Ram. I got time.

-Getting up, I went dragged along a chair for the girl to sit down in-

Ram: Thanks....as I was saying...I need an extra hand for the supplies Lord Roswaal asked for.

Jiro: Really? That's it. I don't mind helping...where are these supplies?

Ram: The spice is awaiting for us at Irlam Village.

-Catching on to what she just told me, so that's why Rem died...that day...because of Subaru. Figuring out who the culprit is...much harder now since the maid is coming-

Jiro: Are you sure?! I can go alone and carry the spice back.

Ram: That would be selfish of me...leaving it all to just one boy. I, myself will help...including Rem...

Jiro: R-Rem? She's going with us...

Ram: Yes, blondie...My little sister will be going...<sly> but don't worry, you two have much to catch up on...

Jiro: (Annoyed) Very funny, Ram... 

Ram: We both know the truth...Jiro. I've seen you glimpse at her from time to time. Don't deny it...

-Speaking out loud, I clasped my hand over her mouth and shushed her-

Jiro: (Embarrassed) Please don't tell her, Ram!

Ram: Fine...I won't gossip, BUT!

-As she agreed, Ram pushed me to the wall with a single hand and pressed up against me.-

Ram: If you dare hurt my baby sister in any shape or form! I will make you regret it...

Jiro: (Scared) Okay, you have yourself a deal. I'm not so--- <gulps>

-Staring down at their current position, someone passing by could see us trying to make-out. And unknowing to me, Ram saw me staring at her chest-

Ram: (Grunts) Eyes up here, pervert! <smacking my chin> 

-I wipe away all the drool, and look at her in fear. She's gonna kill me-

Ram: Oh please, if I killed you now...Rem would probably cry so much... <chuckles> or not! I can't believe a "pig" like you is into my sister. You even had the nerve to stare at me in lust...creep! <shaking her head in disgust

-Crossing her arms, I bow in apology...and didn't wanna anger her any further-

Jiro: Please forgive me, Ram. I-umm-get dazed by a woman's beauty...I'm sorry.

Ram: I must agree with 'her'. You are quite the charmer...but I accept your apology. 

Jiro: Woo, Good to hear! <rubbing my hands together> 

Ram: Shall we go? We can't afford to waste anymore time today...

Jiro: Sure! I'll wait for outside for both of you.

Ram: Alright. I will return shortly, Jiro. Please be ready.

Jiro: Yup! <walking down the main hall and to the exit> 

LATER

I took a bit of time to await for Ram/Rem's arrival but being the gentleman I am. I was willing to sit down on the staircase and be patient. What can I say? Anything for the ladies...there's no use in 'dumping' them, right?!

Ram: Oi, we're here... <claps her hands to gain my attention> Will you stop daydreaming for once?

-Blinking my eyes for a minute, I got up in shock before tripping down the quartz stairs...and groaning in pain. As I rest there in the dirt with embarrassment, I saw Ram who shook her head in dissatisfied fashion, while Rem placed a hand behind and lifts me up gently. Staring at her up close and in awe, I was being rude.-

Rem: (Blushes) Are you alright, Jiro?! That was a scary fall...

Jiro: (Agonized) I'm good...thanks Rem. You're very kind to help me out...unlike others <seeing her sister kicking rocks around>

Rem: I don't mind...we're friends after all...

Jiro: Yeah...I guess we are... <thinking> not for long...

Ram: Can we please get going, before Lord Roswaal becomes disappointed?! I hate to do that...

Jiro: (Sarcastic) Certainly, let me just re-adjust my 'broken' ribs and tibia, then we can go?

Ram: Huh, <stomps her feet> humans sometimes...so fragile. 

Jiro: Sorry...

Ram: Don't apologize. Be Better. 

-Slowly walking to the route into Irlam, we came across much to discuss about-

Jiro: So ladies...while we have enough time to ourselves, why don't we get to learn more about each other?!

-Seeing the twin maids look at one another, they were kinda hesitant-

Jiro: That's alright....we can enjoy the quiet road...

Ram: No...I think this is a perfect opportunity to chat. What do you wanna know?

Jiro: (Cheery) Umm, well what do you like to do for fun? Besides working...

Ram: (Lies) Nothing...

Jiro: Come on, everyone is interested something...

Ram: Not us...that was a long time ago...

Jiro: Oh... <walking silently> your turn, Ram?

Ram: Alright, why are so optimistic all the time? Your emotions usually change and I wanna know.

Jiro: That's a very good question. <itches his hair> It is mostly because whenever I feel depressed or let-down about someone or something, optimism is always there. Focusing on the good things to happen in my future. I look forward to those type of things that create positive impacts in my daily life.

Ram: A valid answer...your turn, Jiro.

Jiro: Hmm, noticing that your sister hasn't spoken yet, hey Rem?!

Rem: What is it, Jiro?!

Jiro: Is it alright with you if I ask a question?

Rem: As long as it's not "offensive", I don't mind...

Jiro: Okay, here it goes. <contemplating> hmm, got it! What kind of magic do you prefer using?

Rem: Magic???

Jiro: Yeah, like what element are you master of?

Rem: (Gloomy) Water...

Jiro: (shrugs) Don't be so glum, all of us should appreciate the gifts we were given. Even, if you think it's a "curse". <pats her shoulder with a smile> 

Rem: ...................... 

-Recognizing this was a poor moment to cordially behave, I stopped talking until she gave me a question-

Rem: Hey, Jiro?

Jiro: (Gentle) What is it, Rem? 

Rem: Why do keep asking us questions? We hardly known each other for a few days and you're being so---passive about all of this. Do you mind answering?

Jiro: I ask you guys questions because my intentions was to create a---umm--- <blushes red>

Rem: (Curious) A What? Jiro?!

Jiro: A connection--- <spurting it out quickly> because ever since I've met you guys...You, Ram, Emilia, Puck, Beatrice, and Lord Roswaal all treated me with such kindness...as if we were "family". So, that's why I kept asking both of you some intriguing questions...to learn more about...well...You. I know it sounds stupid----I'll stop...

-Passing through the twin maids with regret, I felt both of them holding onto my hands-

Rem: I think---it's sweet, Jiro...you're completely honest and willing to be work hard everyday to be better. I actually admire that about you. And I can see you're just trying to create a "bond". 

Ram: Like she said, I, for one am difficult to make conversations with...but in all honesty...the chats we've had, and the moments we shared is rather...interesting. Don't be embarrassed about showing us your true feelings. We know you care... <winks> 

-Feeling as the twins gripped tightly, I look away as my face began to turn redder-

Ram: Rem-Rem!!! Can you see his cute face, it's all puffy and red from what I did? Does he have a crush on me?

Rem: Ram-Ram!!! I think he's just slightly perverted. We should let go of him so he doesn't get any creepy ideas. <swiping her hand away from me> 

Ram: I agree, little sister... <releases my hand>

-Holding in my laughter, I couldn't express more about how happy I am that we're getting along. Wishing this day wouldn't end soon, I had to cover my stupid giggles in-

Ram: What's so funny, Jiro? I can hear you laughing even under that boney hand!

Jiro: (Laughs) Guys! I'm not a pervert. I promise! hehehe, who would dare do something to two beautiful, 'innocent' girls!

Ram: You, Of Course...I've seen men like you before. Thinking that you could take anything you want...let me make this clear. You. Ren. Jiro. Can't. Have. Me. 

Jiro: (Smug) Who said I'd ever want you in the first place. You know something, Ram. I feel as if you do have a crush on me! But, just too afraid to confess...

-After telling the pink girl, she became furious with me...and was planning to blast me with wind magic until we finally reached the village. That sure saved me...I would've died-

Jiro: OH LOOK! WE'RE HERE! LET'S GO <scurrying away from Ram>

-As I bolt to the villagers, Ram turns to Rem and discuss something in secret-

Ram: I swear, Rem-Rem. If he ever mocks me again, I will murder your 'cute' boyfriend myself.

Rem: (Whispers) Who said he was my "boyfriend"? You seem to like him more... <elbows her>

Ram: Never mind. Forget what I said...Rem.

-Chasing me into the village, they went around to find where they could receive their supplies while I went to look for clues. Talking to all the villagers I came in contact with-

Jiro: Good afternoon, Miss... We meet again! 

Old Lady: Please, call me...Milde. The Head of this Village.

Jiro: Hey, Milde. How is Boseman doing?

Milde: Good, my 'child'. He is recovering rather fast, for a grumpy old turd blossom. But, yes...your friend is alright. How are you doing by the way? I can see those two gorgeous creatures are with you! My! I'm jealous!

Jiro: Hehe, and why would a wise, charming, young woman such as yourself be jealous? 

Milde: "Young"...that is quite bold to say...but, let's talk about you...mister...baby skin, a 'cute' face, blondish hair, oooh I do see strips of black there...The Gods must've created their perfect specimen because women would be clawing over each other to get a piece of you.

Jiro: (Blushing) That is quite the compliment, Milde. But, I actually wanted to ask you something.

Milde: Anything, my boy?

Jiro: Have you seen anything strange or out of place appear inside Irlam?! 

Milde: Hmm, not that I'm assure of? Why?!

Jiro: (Lied) Just wondering...my friend has came here plenty of times and is experiencing some weird---side---effects. It makes him nauseous...

Milde: Oh, dear...Subaru is sick. That is sad news...please tell him, the villagers wish him well...

-Pinching my cheek hard, which made a yelp in surprise.-

Jiro: I will, thank you again...You've been helpful.

Milde: No...thank you...for allowing me to stare at such a charming "young" man...please stay away from those two angels...you'll never know when they'll tear that handsome face apart.

Jiro: (Honest) Wouldn't be surprised...since they're very strong women.

-I stroll around the village and kept getting into contact with the rest...finally leaving only the kids-

???: Hey, who are you?

Jiro: Oh, I'm Ren Jiro....who are you, boy?

???: Huh, the toughest fighter around this village. I'm Cain..

-Great! A biblical name...the first killer. Splendid name for a child. Not scared at all...or am I???-

Jiro: An..."defining" name to have...but nice. And the rest of you?

???: Dine... (child version of Pokemon Brock)

???: Lucas... (rocking the man bun...don't judge him)

???: Mild... (yes...ask for the sauce when you buy from taco bell or else...)

???: Meina... (blondie version of idk, but yeah, double hair buns on each end)

-Crouching down to see a coy girl looking away from me, she seems to have red covering her face...-

Jiro: (Soft) And who might you be, princess? 

???: P-Petra, umm Jiro.... (wears a knotted red bandana around her hair) 

Jiro: A beautiful name...and you? 

-Observing the girl carrying the same, charcoal-colored puppy...he was asleep which was good. At least, Subaru won't get bitten from that thing. Hopefully.-

???: Meili...kind sir, and your name is...Jiren?! Right!? (girl with purple hair)

Jiro: Hehe, so close, little one...but it's Jiro...

Meili: My apologies...

Jiro: Nothing to worry about! But, do you mind telling me how you found that little mu--umm-pup...Yeah, pup?

Meili: Oh...he seemed lost around the fence over there. I found him sleeping in the mud the other night...couldn't leave him alone!

Jiro: Aww, that is sweet! 

Meili: Wanna pet him? 

Jiro: No....I can't...

Meili: Why? He won't bite...he's sleeping anyways...

Jiro: Umm-but I'm allergic! Yeah, allergic to cute puppies...

Meili: Really?

-Hearing the vigorous boy shout to me like he was my elder-

Cain: Like Hell!!!

Petra: Cain! You can't say that...that's a bad word...

Cain: Or what? Gonna tell on mommy...

-Seeing as she stopped talking, that was quite rude of him. Until his brother stepped in-

Dine: That was mean, big bro. I'm gonna tell mom if you keep saying bad words...

Cain: (Crosses his arms) FINE! But, that guy better pet him, or is he too chicken?

-Getting close to his face in annoyance, I saw the pipsqueak feel uneased-

Jiro: Are you challenging me, boy?

Cain: Yeah, I am....what of it?

Jiro: Huh, you're bolder than I thought...if I pet this pup, will you quit being rude to people?

Cain: Possibly...can't say I don't have fun doing it?!

Jiro: I know a 'beauty' that would like you...but if this make you stop mocking my 'courage'...I'll do it!

Cain: Woohoo, go on then... Don't keep us waiting, chicken!

-Reaching over to the pup, it was still asleep which was good...so that meant the coast was clear...and making my move, I rubbed the pup gently whilst looking at Cain-

Jiro: Happy now---ouch! You little---i hope you don't have rabies...

Pup: Grrr---

-Holding onto my bloody hand, I pointed at the freaking mutt that bit me-

Jiro: You're one lucky dog.... 

Cain: Don't be such a big baby...it'll heal.

Petra: Sorry, Jiro. I didn't expect him to bite you...

Jiro: That's alright... how about all of you tell me about yourselves?!

Cain: Sure! I'll go first!

-Listening to everyone's story...I was rather amazed. When I was there age, I would always act so glum or cheerful. You could say I had a bipolar stage in my life...and as we continued on during the conversation, I heard the sound of graceful people walking near my presence, which made me turn around to only find Rem/Ram standing there-

Jiro: Hey guys! Need help....

Ram: (Sarcastic) No...Jiro. Let two beautiful women carry this on our own.

Jiro: (waves hand) As you wish... <turning to the kids> sorry, children. Big meanie Ram needs my help...because she needs a man.

Ram: Hah, I would hardly call you a man...more like boy...

-Grunting in irritation from her rude response. I bark at her.-

Jiro: Grrr...NOT IN FRONT OF MY "FRIENDS" RAM!

Ram: Whatever...Jiro. If you refuse to leave, don't expect to enter the mansion tonight...

Jiro: Alright, I'm coming...jeez what a hasty girl, always needing me. See you kids later...

All the Children: BYE JIRO!!! <waves toward me>

Rem: Those are nice kids, who are they Jiro?!

Jiro: Hmm, <taps his lip> how about I tell you along the way? Each one of them has a story...Interested?!

Rem: Hai...I'm listening...

TIMESKIP

As we made it back to the mansion, I placed all the spice packages down onto the kitchen floor and entered the main hall...to find Ram or Rem...imagining that they might be busy...I went forth into the Roswaal's library to find Beatrice. I did play "bait" after all...so opening the door, she sat where she normally was...with a book in on her lap...

Jiro: Hey, Beatrice! 

Beatrice: Oh, look! The blonde idiot has returned once again for more aid...wondering what he must do now?

Jiro: Yeah, that's exactly why I came here in the first place!!!! Can you please hurry, before I turn into assassination target or worse a rotting corpse?!

Beatrice: Not even a "Hello" but what can I say? You're obviously a "rude boy" who never learns their place...I guess my promise should be kept?! 

-Tracing the strange energy, I was thinking it to be the old lady, or the dude who patted me on the damn back...but my thoughts became frozen once I learn who was truly responsible-

Beatrice: What is the mark here, Jiro? <rubbing the mark>

Jiro: Oh, that was just a 'bite' mark I received from---

Beatrice: From what? Tell me, Jiro?

Jiro: THAT FUCKING MUTT?!!! HE'S THE SHAMAN!

Beatrice: What are you talking about? The dog is behind this!

Jiro: Yes, and---oh crap...can he shape-shift, Beatrice?!

Beatrice: Unlikely, but...I would prefer to that munch as the Mabeasts initial mark for their victims...which---means it must've slipped through undetected...

Jiro: Dammit, I knew something was up...especially with the puppy. What exactly is a Mabeast?! 

Beatrice: An unholy mongrel or specimen...depending on what you describe it to be...was created by the Witch of Envy...herself. They serve only one purpose...and that is her. Mabeasts were a key factor for the Great Calamity...

Jiro: Woah, Woah! Lemme get this straight?! Are you telling me some hellhound, the witch Satella created is actually the one causing that began this ruckus in the mansion and is now taking effect on the villagers?!

Beatrice: Yes...

Jiro: (Frustrated) This is worse than I thought... <grips hair tightly and ruffles it>

Beatrice: I can understand how much weight is on your shoulders, the burdens you have to carry...but there's people out there willing to help. Just ask...please, Jiro. Don't be reckless.

Jiro: NO....I won't...not now...they'll only slow me down...

-Trying to rush out the door, Beatrice slams it shut with magic-

Beatrice: WILL YOU STOP BEING SO MACHO FOR ONE SECOND AND THINK?! 

-Pausing for a moment, tears began to roll down as I look at her-

Beatrice: (Calming down) How are you able to save them if you can hardly protect yourself? Those Mabeasts will tear you apart, Jiro... <softly speaks> Please, recognize the danger of this situation before heading there.

Jiro: But, Betty...those kids are in trouble. and this is dire...there's no time to---think.

Beatrice: Do you understand how stupid you sound?! Gosh, the nerve of humans. Always looking to face trouble head-on. Worried about what's between their legs then what's up here? <tapping her head-signifying the brain> Can you end this senseless bravado before you get yourself hurt in the process?

Jiro: You know I can't, and...I can't let those kids die...you won't stop me...but I am willing to allow you to help me.

-Seeing as she nodded in disagreement, made me disappointed-

Jiro: Here I thought, you would've cared...at least for the sake of innocent lives. Are you that cold-hearted about all of this...no matter how many books you read, I bet that none of them ever taught you how to be a compassionate person? I was wrong to ever think that maybe...just maybe Beatrice would give damn...guess I was right. <reaching for the door>

-After, finishing my statement, she yelped out in amnesty due to her duties as the Library Caretaker-

Beatrice: Don't see this as a selfish reason, Jiro. I would absolutely aid you on this gruesome journey but I promise to remain within the mansion's reach. My contract prevents me from further extension since the village is out of my capable hands. But, this doesn't exclude the fact that I can help in different ways...

Jiro: (Sniveling) Like what? 

Beatrice: Seeking out friends...whom care about you...love you...

Jiro: Who?

Beatrice: You already know the answer to that...

Jiro: Rem...

Beatrice: Yes...or Ram. If you could persuade them...but that's a suggestion whether or not they'll help the people in Irlam...

-Smiling to her kind gesture, I had a different idea-

Jiro: Hey, Beatrice?

Beatrice: What is it, you dolt?

Jiro: I want you to relay a message...can you do that?!

Beatrice: You're asking me to do something so simple, of course I can. Who specifically are you asking me to contact?!

Jiro: Subaru...

9/1/20