L17. The Strange Boy
The boy exuded such an overwhelmingly intense witch's scent that it was almost exaggerated.
Reinhild felt that even the Sin Archbishops of the Witch Cult didn't carry such a strong presence.
The boy wore a flawless smile on his face, but precisely because it was too perfect, it appeared deeply insincere.
What concerned Reinhild the most was the aura surrounding the boy — it was one she was painfully familiar with.
It resembled her grandfather's, the kind of atmosphere that came from someone struggling alone in despair for the sake of a loved one.
It was also similar to her father's — someone who fell into darkness after failing to save someone precious to him.
This was the impression Reinhild had when she first encountered the boy named Subaru Natsuki, the one she had rescued.
Perhaps because she had failed twice before, the instant she laid eyes on Subaru — or rather, sensed that familiar aura — Reinhild instinctively felt pained.
Instinctively, she wanted to help him.
"You alright? Do you need more rest? We could talk later tonight instead. You don't look so well."
Even Reinhild herself was surprised by her words.
She hadn't expected to let personal emotions intrude on official business.
"Ah, I just had a nightmare because of yesterday. I'll be fine in a few days.
I assume you called me here to talk about what happened in the capital yesterday..."
"Yes. Actually..."
Reinhild noticed that Subaru was changing the topic.
But she also understood that, strictly speaking, they were strangers — and it wouldn't be appropriate to press further.
So Reinhild pretended not to notice and picked up the thread of the conversation, summarizing what happened the day before.
While speaking, Reinhild observed Subaru's expression closely.
She found him incredibly pitiful.
Whether it was his surprise at hearing that Lady Felt was a royal candidate, his greed when rewards were mentioned, or his joy upon securing a servant position — all of it seemed fake.
The only genuine emotions he displayed were exhaustion and despair.
Reinhild didn't expose Subaru's facade, because she believed that life in her mansion would eventually heal his heart.
When the door opened again and Reinhild saw Subaru the next day, his condition had worsened.
His footsteps were unsteady, a stronger air of pessimism surrounded him, his face was pale, and light dark circles had formed under his eyes.
Everything about him showed that he'd had a painful yesterday.
This stark contrast to what she had expected left Reinhild in a gloomy mood — she even blamed herself a little for not paying more attention to his condition the day before.
"Reinhild, can I speak with Roswaal alone?"
Just as she was wondering whether someone in the mansion had bullied Subaru, Reinhild heard his request.
She keenly picked up on the fear in his voice.
But upon seeing the all-or-nothing look in Subaru's eyes and the serious demeanor of Roswaal seated beside him, she hesitated — and then silently left the room.
.
.
.
Inside a moving dragon carriage, Reinhild and Roswaal sat face to face.
The details and statements regarding the aftermath of the royal capital incident had already been discussed.
Technically, Reinhild should have left by then.
But perhaps due to the blood of the Sword Saint in her, or maybe to make up for her own failings — or even as a way to repay Subaru's kindness — she had made up her mind.
"Lord Roswaal, I'd like to ask you something about commoners and nobles being together."
The girl asked seriously.
After Subaru's private talk with Roswaal, Reinhild had confirmed the events of his first day in the mansion.
Since there were no issues with the other residents, and with Felix's analysis from the day before, Subaru's apparent hatred toward Roswaal today, and his improved mental state after signing the contract — Reinhild had a vague guess as to why Subaru was so worn down.
'She suspected it was because Roswaal had tried to stop Subaru from pursuing Lady Emilia.'
"Why do you ask that?"
"Subaru is my benefactor. I'd like to help him however I can.
I think he's a hero — he has wisdom and the courage to give his life for Lady Emilia.
Lord Roswaal, could you possibly give him a chance?"
"Wait a moment. I believe there's a misunderstanding, Reinhild.
Personally, I'm not against Subaru pursuing Lady Emilia.
In fact, I would even support him.
But the one Subaru likes... is you, not Lady Emilia."
"..."
The conversation in the dragon carriage ended in an awkward and baffling way.
Reinhild thought it over for a long time, but ultimately couldn't reach the conclusion that Subaru liked her.
Staring out the window at the capital, she realized her status and decided to bury the conversation deep within her heart.
The handling of the capital's affairs went even smoother than Reinhild had expected.
The day after they arrived, all post-incident matters were resolved.
She also successfully bought Otto's birthday present from the merchant caravan.
That evening, she met with her father and told him she wished to support Felt.
Although he didn't give his approval, he didn't oppose it either — he just kept thinking silently.
The next day, Reinhild visited the Karsten household to express her gratitude.
She could've stayed a few more days, but considering Subaru's condition, she decided to return to the mansion immediately.
Unexpectedly, her father came to see her off, with a very conflicted expression.
"Father, is something the matter?"
Seeing her father hesitate to speak, Reinhild asked.
"Reinhild, what's your opinion of the Divine Dragon?"
"He is the revered guardian deity of the nation."
Reinhild answered without hesitation.
"I see... Then, if someone close to you were to try and harm the Divine Dragon — for example, Lady Felt whom you wish to serve, or even me — what would you do?"
It had been a while since her father had asked her something so seriously.
Reinhild fell deep into thought.
Lady Felt indeed didn't seem fond of the Divine Dragon.
It wasn't impossible she might act against it.
Then what should she do? Even if she could defeat the dragon, she could only guarantee a hundred years of peace, whereas the dragon had already secured four hundred years of tranquility for the kingdom.
"No matter who it is — my sword will face the enemies of the Divine Dragon."
Reinhild replied.
This was her promise to her father.
If it were for the sake of all people, she was willing to cast away personal loyalty.
"I see. As expected of the Sword Saint. You're always busy, huh? Get lost."
Reinhild watched her father's departing back with confusion.
She could sense that his resentment toward her had grown.
—Could it be that Father wanted me to choose loyalty?
With this question lingering in her mind, Reinhild boarded the dragon carriage once again.