The dragon carriage slowed its pace, the beat of its claws sounding duller on the stone cobblestones than on the open road. The sound of the city began to fill the air, a vague cacophony of stall cries, laughter, and conversations. We had arrived in front of a luxurious building, an elegant and imposing mansion belonging to Crusch Karsten.
We started climbing out of the vehicle to unload our meager luggage. Rem, stoic but attentive, stayed at the inn Roswaal had booked, insisting on taking care of our belongings and making sure everything was spotless before our return.
A few moments later, I walked through the bustling streets of the capital, Lugnica, a warm wind sweeping away the smells of spicy food, sweat, and distant magical fumes. The sun was shining, the crowd was dense, and the humming atmosphere was both familiar and overwhelming. Emilia held Subaru's hand; he looked both embarrassed and delighted, his head full of his romantic hero dreams.
My eyes, against my will, stopped at a stall exactly where it was supposed to be. It was the man with green hair, recognizable by his massive stature and dusty apron, who had helped us find Felt in the first Arc. The script was being respected.
Me: Hey guys, it's the Appa man!
Subaru stared at me, initially confused by the nickname, then his face lit up with recognition. He dragged Emilia to head toward the vendor.
The Appa man smiled, a wide grin that didn't hide a mocking glint in his eyes.
The Appa Man: You two are the idiots from last time. I hope you aren't broke anymore!
I forced a smile. The past humiliation of not being able to afford a simple Appa came back to me. It was the moment Subaru had shined with his resourcefulness, but for me, it was just another moment of weakness. I pulled out a purse and bought a dozen appas, purely out of pride.
Me: I hope your little one hasn't gotten lost again. Is she doing well?
The Appa Man: You know kids... When you don't watch them, poof, they disappear.
His gaze then landed on me, and his smile wavered. He tilted his head, an air of expertise or danger in his eyes.
The Appa Man: Kid, that's strange. Your eyes weren't that color the last time I saw you.
The air thickened. I still had to lie about my carmine red eyes. This routine was starting to get tiresome, and I knew my excuse was fragile in front of a man who looked like he could see through walls.
Me (with a smile that didn't reach my eyes): A spell, kind of... no, nothing. It's just that I spent way too much mana and energy during my training. A temporary side effect, I suppose.
He seemed to accept my answer, but his gaze remained tinged with a certain worry. He had sensed the lie, or at least the secret. Subaru intervened, proud of his role in Arc 1.
Subaru: Don't worry, even he doesn't know why! But as promised, we kept our promise to come back and see you.
The Appa Man: I'm happy about your loyalty. Now that you're not broke anymore, have a good day.
We continued on our way. Emilia started talking about Felt and Old Man Rom, with a gentle sadness.
Emilia: Felt is with Reinhard now. I wonder where Old Man Rom is...
Me: Probably still in the poor quarters. I hope he's alright. If he gets caught again because of an insignia, I'm going to pay the price.
We walked a few more minutes and arrived in front of a conspicuously wealthy building. But before we could enter, a man with neatly combed violet hair called out to us.
???: What a surprise to see you again, Emilia-sama!
Emilia turned around, her smile widening at the sight of the man.
Emilia: Well, nothing's changed since last time, Julius.
Julius knelt down with the grace of a dancer, taking Emilia's hand to place a quick, courteous kiss on it.
Julius knelt down with the grace of a dancer, taking Emilia's hand to place a quick, courteous kiss on it
Julius: Your beauty has blossomed even further, Emilia-sama. The radiance of your virtue is a beacon in this restless city.
I looked at Subaru, whose face was contorted with rage. He visibly wanted to rip Julius's head off for daring to kiss Emilia's hand. "Here we go, the show is starting," I sighed internally. I knew I was about to be hit by a tsunami of stupidity. "I hope I can get through my day without trouble with this idiot."
Julius stood up, his impeccable gaze and serene Golden eyes turning toward Subaru and me.
Julius: These two young men accompany you? I must confess that their outfits are... unconventional for a stroll through the capital.
"Okay, Trizz, you can do this. Don't ruin everything because you want to be far from this idiot". The stakes were to dissociate myself from Subaru's imminent foolishness to earn Julius's respect (and discretion). I took a deep breath and put on my most polite, artificial smile.
Me: Hello, Julius-sama. Allow me to introduce myself, Trizz. I'm delighted to make your acquaintance. As for my... traveling partner next to me, he is Subaru, Emilia-sama's butler.
I had carefully avoided the word "friend."
Julius: Don't be so formal with me. Just call me Julius. And delighted to meet you, Trizz. You, at least, show a certain degree of etiquette.
He then looked at Subaru, who remained silent, consumed by visible jealousy and rage.
Julius: With a butler's attire, it is mandatory to remain formal and dignified, even in front of strangers. Especially in the presence of a Royal Candidate.
Subaru, his face distorted by anger, mumbled, unable to form a coherent sentence due to his annoyance
Subaru: Thanks for the advice, you bargain knight...
Then, he added with a weird look, visibly trying to destabilize him
Subaru: I have a piece of advice for you avoid curry udon with your clothes. It leaves stains, you see?
I managed to remain silent. The embarrassment was total. The only thing I wanted to do was flee and leave him behind to face the consequences of his own idiocy. Julius, Emilia, and I looked at Subaru, confused by the culinary reference, but Julius maintained his smile, chillingly polite.
Julius: I'm not sure what that is, but I'll keep the advice in mind, should I ever encounter that... dish. Now, allow me to escort you to the Talking Mirror. That is where Emilia-sama is expected.
Emilia noticed that Subaru and I were confused by the term and explained to us that it was a meteor that allowed people to talk, like a telephone. "Thanks again, Echidna, for your world-copying inventions," I thought, recognizing the nod to my former life.
Subaru headed toward the building entrance with determined steps, but Emilia stopped him, placing a soft hand on his arm.
Emilia: Subaru, you have to stay outside. Only people important to the Selection, Roswaal, Puck, and I, are allowed to enter.
Subaru: What?! But Emilia...
Emilia: Please. You promised me you'd be good.
She left with Julius, leaving Subaru at the door, frustrated and helpless.
So, I'm going to be alone with Subaru, who's on the verge of exploding. Great...
Subaru sat down on the ground, his back against the wall, to wait for Emilia. I stood, my mind focused on my plan against the Cult of Sloth.
Subaru pulled me out of my thoughts, his unfortunate hero instinct taking over.
Subaru: Dude, look over there. That woman in red went into the alley, she might get mugged.
Me: Don't you think it would be better to leave that woman alone? She doesn't look like she needs help. Maybe she can handle the situation alone? Who knows? She looks formidable.
Subaru gave me a dirty look, exasperated by my lack of heroic zeal, which I simply ignored.
Subaru: If you don't want to help her, I'll go alone. It's common sense, damn it!
Subaru started walking away toward the alley. A few moments later, I remembered Roswaal's contract, and I felt a heaviness pressing on my heart. I was forced to follow him.
"What a hassle! I'm obligated to follow him because of that damn contract. I don't want to be noticed by that bitch Priscilla, but if I stay away from Subaru... I'll pay the price. Roswaal never jokes."
Arriving in the alley, I saw the scene unfolding exactly like in the scenario: the same three bandits as last time, threatening a woman with flaming orange hair, dressed in a provocative red dress. It was Priscilla Barielle, the Sun of Arrogance herself, the most manipulative and dangerous woman in this selection.
???: Quiet down, commoner!
She looked me up and down with a disdain that reminded me of Julius's gaze, but a thousand times more contemptuous. Great. Now that I followed that idiot Subaru, she'll surely notice me, and ridicule me at the Royal Selection.
I scratched my cheek to dissipate my embarrassment, forcing a soothing smile.
Me: Hey guys, don't you think it would be better to leave this woman alone? She's not just anybody.
They gave me a hateful look, as if to insult my entire lineage, but one of them clicked.
The thin bandit: It's him, guys! The guy from last time who ridiculed us and stole a weapon!
"I had forgotten... I had taken down those three with Subaru and taken a weapon from them." I started to feel their anger rising, a banal but real bloodlust.
I took a breath. The diplomatic route was dead. Damn contract. Damn Subaru.
Me: I see the passive route didn't work. So, we'll switch to the active route. Get lost, or things will end badly.
I summoned my two quasi-spirits, floating beside me like puffs of mist. Simultaneously, I activated "Aka," my magical aura linked to Yang magic.
An invisible pressure emanated from my body, a bright white heat. The air around me seemed to contract. The effect was immediate the thugs backed away, their faces contorting with terror at the power I was emitting. They fled down the alley, threatening to avenge their honor.
I deactivated my aura and made my two quasi-spirits disappear. I then looked at Subaru, who was marveling like a child at a magic trick.
Subaru: That was amazing! Since when did your spirits start changing color? And that aura... it was incredibly powerful!
"Wait, this might get complicated later. I had never shown him the evolution of my spirits or the extent of my aura". Subaru had just witnessed one of my rare non-combat manifestations of power.
A massive shadow stopped behind us. It was an imposing old man, over two meters tall, carrying a club. It was Rom.
Rom: It's been a while, kids! What are you doing here, beating up my... my things?
Subaru and I, the relief of seeing the old man briefly erasing the annoyance, smiled nostalgically:
Subaru and Me: OLD MAN ROM!
Rom: I saw those bandits running away. Did you scare them off?
Me: No, they were just outnumbered. Or maybe they sensed that Old Man Rom was nearby, who knows?
Priscilla, annoyed at being relegated to the background by the fight and the reunion, snapped her fan shut with a dry clack, drawing all attention.
Priscilla, annoyed at being relegated to the background by the fight and the reunion, snapped her fan shut with a dry clack, drawing all attention
Priscilla: Without you, I would have gotten out of it easily, even without lifting a finger.
Subaru, his head still full of his knight-in-shining-armor role, flew into a sudden rage.
Subaru: Excuse me? Are you kidding me? "I didn't need your help, I'm very strong," is that it? That's pure arrogance!
I placed my hand on Subaru's shoulder, desperately trying to bring him back to his senses.
Me: Subaru, she's right. Without us, she could have gotten out without any problem... (She's not just a damsel in distress.)
Subaru: Trizz what?! You think she could have beaten those bandits without our help?! Stop talking nonsense, Trizz!
I closed my eyes, powerless against Subaru's stupidity. It was impossible to shut him up when he got into this state.
Priscilla: Listen to your friend, that good-for-nothing. At least he thinks. You would do well to learn.
Me: Subaru, don't you know this woman? She's Priscilla Barielle, the Sun of Arrogance.
Priscilla smiled, not with amusement, but satisfaction. She stared at us, Subaru and me, her carmine gaze identical to mine lingering for a moment on my deception." She's already devising a plan to ridicule us at the Selection. Great..."
Priscilla: This world was designed so that everything is to my advantage.
If you think about it, without Subaru's intervention in the original story, she would become the new ruler of Lugnica, a year later... It was a historical certainty, and Subaru was needlessly irritating her.
Suddenly, a woman in a white hood, with silver hair and amethyst eyes, appeared, coming from the main street. It was Emilia. She was accompanied by a man in a strange helmet, poorly dressed, bare-chested like a gladiator. It was Aldebaran, better known as Al.
Emilia: Finally, there you are! I was worried about you being late.
Subaru, instantly forgetting his quarrel with Priscilla, charged toward Al, his face twisted with a glare. He started ranting absurdities about the knight's attire.
Subaru: What the hell is that outfit?! You look like you walked out of a failed sci-fi movie! Don't you have decent clothes? It's disrespectful to Emilia!
Tired of Subaru's recurrent stupidity, I sighed. "Why do I always end up having to fix his messes?" I approached them, my apologetic smile already in place.
Me: I apologize, sir, for my friend's impulsive behavior... He doesn't always have a sense of priority.
Aldebaran scratched his helmet, that familiar gesture that signaled his embarrassment or annoyance.
Aldebaran: I see your friend isn't quite right in the head, bro. I forgive him, but if it had been someone else, he would have had his head cut off for insulting a knight.
Emilia: Calm down, Subaru. His outfit surprised me too, but that's no reason.
Subaru: It's not my fault if he has a kidnapper's outfit! He's going to scare everyone!
"Deep down, I would have liked to see Al's reaction if Subaru had been more perceptive". But I chased that thought out of my head and refocused on politeness.
Me: Thank you for the advice, sir... I'll watch his next outings.
Al: Don't be so formal with me. My name is Aldebaran, you can call me Al, bro.
Me: Thank you, Al.
Priscilla, who had remained silent during our exchange, the gaze fixed on me and not Subaru, suddenly interrupted the conversation. She seemed to be addressing Al, but her eyes remained on me.
Priscilla: It's wise to anticipate my destination. Let's go, Al.
Emilia widened her eyes, surprised, and hid behind Subaru, seemingly instinctively uneasy with the candidate.
Me: Al, I think you were looking for this woman, weren't you? Your mission is accomplished. Now, please, let's end this situation. I'm really tired of this circus.
Priscilla: One moment. (Her piercing gaze returned to me) What's in that bag? The Appas. Speak.
I glared at Al, who scratched his helmet, visibly embarrassed to have made the connection between the food and his mistress. I retrieved an appa, handed it to Priscilla, and briefly explained to her that he shouldn't talk about it.
Me: They're just Appas. A local specialty. Nothing more. And it doesn't concern you.
I then grabbed Emilia's hand and Subaru's hand to flee the alley before the situation escalated further.
"This woman is really annoying. She saw my eyes, my aura, and now she's interested in me. Perfect. That's exactly what Roswaal wanted: for me to be a visible pawn on his chessboard."
As the sun set, painting the capital's facades in orange and crimson, Subaru, Emilia, and I walked through the streets. The afternoon's hustle gave way to a calmer atmosphere. Emilia, visibly preoccupied by the encounter, broke the silence with a direct question.
Emilia: Do you know that woman? Priscilla Barielle? You had seemed to know who she was,
Emilia: Do you know that woman? Priscilla Barielle? You had seemed to know who she was,
Faced with this question, Subaru and I were confused, but for very different reasons. Subaru waited for my answer, looking curious. I was looking for the most credible lie.
Subaru: Me, no. But Trizz, I think so. Come on, spill it.
Me: (I sighed) I just heard of her. She's also a Royal Candidate, right, Emilia? It's hard to ignore a name like that.
Emilia: Yes. She's one of the five. But she is... very difficult.
Subaru: Why didn't you tell me?! It's important to know who the competitors are!
The urge to punch him in the head was strong. He was incapable of shutting up for a minute to listen to basic information about the world.
Me: You were clowning around with her, provoking her, so I preferred to keep quiet. You wouldn't have listened anyway. You were too focused on the other guy in the helmet.
Subaru continued to talk nonsense, swearing he would become the best knight despite his lack of power.
Subaru: I'm going to put her in her place! I'll show her who the most incredible butler in Lugnica is!
Me: (Whispering behind his back) Right. Do it just once and you'll be disemboweled by Al, or worse, by her herself.
Emilia smiled, amused by our usual squabbles, ignoring the underlying bitterness in my remarks. We continued like this until the inn.
[Scene Change - Priscilla's Carriage]
In a luxurious carriage, draped in red velvet like its mistress's dress, Priscilla and Al were seated. Priscilla held the Appas between two slender fingers, examining it like an ancient artifact.
Priscilla: It is indeed an appa. That fool wasn't wrong about it being a treat. At least he has the merit of honesty.
She bit into the Appas. Her eyes widened in surprise, the simple sweet flavor contrasting with her opulent surroundings.
Priscilla: (With an enigmatic smile) Interesting... Very interesting. That quick-witted peasant. His gaze... there's a burning will that reminds me of someone.
Al, his helmet resting on his lap, avoided his mistress's gaze.
Al: He's just a kid, Princess. Full of himself, but he seems decent at close combat.
Priscilla: No. Not full of himself. Full of disgust for what's going to happen. He knows. And his eyes. He shares the color of blood and destiny. This selection might be... very interesting, after all.
Back at the inn, the tension, until then latent, exploded as soon as we crossed the threshold. Subaru and Emilia immediately started arguing, the fatigue and stress of the capital adding to Subaru's impatience.
Emilia: You have to stay here tomorrow. It's non-negotiable, Subaru.
Subaru: What?! But why?!
Emilia: Of course, that was our agreement. Your Mana Gate isn't healed yet.
Subaru: We haven't been able to thank Reinhard! If we go to the castle, we could do it. I promise I'll be good!
Emilia: I'll take care of it for Felt. You need rest. That's the price for not listening to Rem when she told you!
I remained seated in a chair, watching their argument in silence. My body was the image of calm, but internally, I was pleading: "Ah, Subaru, listen to Emilia. Otherwise, I might steal her after the Selection... no, worse: you're going to be publicly humiliated by Julius. Keep a low profile, for once!"
Emilia, looking for an ally in reason, turned her gaze toward me.
Emilia: Take Trizz as an example. He listens to what I say. I trust him much more to stay calm and follow instructions.
Subaru, hurt by the comparison, doubled his intensity.
Subaru: But he doesn't love you like I do! I want to be with you, Emilia! I must protect you!
Emilia: No, there's no question of you overworking yourself again. I don't want you to get hurt, Subaru.
Subaru: You're the one who doesn't understand! If I have to do it for you, I'm fine with it! I'll overwork... I don't care about the consequences, I have to be there!
Emilia: No way! Until you're completely healed, magic and overwork are forbidden. Promise me, Subaru.
Powerless, his face twisted with frustration, Subaru finally accepted Emilia's demand. He stayed in the inn, his fists clenched, with Rem and me. Rem stood, holding a bag of Appas.
Me: Rem, aren't you tired? You can sit down. We have a room for us, don't we?
Rem: No, thank you for worrying about me, Trizz-sama. I am used to it. My duty comes before my rest.
Me: If you say so... She's as stubborn as her "hero," in a way.
Subaru, watching Emilia and Roswaal's carriage discussion, broke the silence with renewed determination.
Subaru: Trizz, we have to help Emilia! Without us, she's...
I cut him off, my tone becoming cold. I couldn't let him ruin Roswaal's plan-or mine-even if that plan annoyed me.
Me: Emilia is a big girl. She can manage on her own. If you go to the Selection, you risk breaking your promise. And you'll embarrass her by acting like a disrespectful butler. Besides, she has Roswaal and Puck with her. She is not defenseless.
Rem: Subaru-kun, Trizz-sama is right. You must respect Emilia-sama's word and promise. You need to heal.
Subaru was furious. He gave me a dirty look, sensing that I wasn't taking his side. The internal conflict was clear remain obedient or rush to disaster to "protect" Emilia.
I got up and headed toward the exit.
Me: I'm going to get some air. Don't cause trouble in my absence. Rem, watch Subaru.
Rem: I understand, Trizz-sama. He won't move from here.
I left the inn and walked through the streets in the cooler air. A few minutes later, I found a public fountain and sat on the edge, an appa in my hand.
[Flashback: Roswaal's Mansion]
Roswaal: (His voice echoed in my head) To enter the Royal Selection hall, you must sit in front of a fountain, after my discussion with Emilia-sama. Someone will come to pick you up. A small sacrifice for the sake of the Great Prophecy, Trizz-kun.
Me: (I had clenched my fists, annoyed by his sneering look) And who, Roswaal? You plan to send me a clown?
Roswaal: Be patient, my dear Trizz-kun. And here, a thousand holy coins. I'm sure that will help you with your plan against the Cult. You'll need all the resources possible if you want to deal with Sloth, won't you? I'm counting on you to be the pawn Subaru cannot be, Trizz-kun. The discreet pawn.
[End of Flashback]
I bit into my appa with an annoyed look. "Why did I listen to that scary clown? The lure of the thousand holy coins, the assurance of access to the castle for discreet surveillance, and above all, the shadow of Roswaal's Blood Contract had dragged me here." I was about to enter a political arena where my only goal was not to be noticed.
A familiar shadow stopped in front of me. A man in a helmet.
Al: Hey, bro! What a coincidence that we met, it shows how small the world is. I feel like fate is working against you, kid.
I frowned to mask my discomfort. I knew Al's arrival wasn't a coincidence, but Priscilla's doing, who had sent her knight because of my aura in the alley.
Me: Let's get straight to the point. Priscilla asked you to come and pick me up so I could be ridiculed at the Royal Selection? Don't tell me it's a coincidence.
Al was shocked and embarrassed.
Al: (He scratched his helmet) Yeah. That's it. Looks like you guessed. Do you accept?
Me: Of course, I accept. I don't have a choice. Let's do this quickly.
Al directed me toward a luxurious red carriage. Inside, a woman was waiting for me, her carmine eyes fixed on me. It was Priscilla.
Priscilla: That was quicker than expected to bring this commoner with us. You're much more accommodating than I would have thought.
I got into the carriage, sitting on the seat opposite her. The red leather was soft, but the tension in the air was palpable, almost electric.
Me: If I'm here, it's not to be ridiculed at the Selection. I just want to see how you're going to humiliate Subaru. And I don't have a choice, because I'm here to watch him. Don't worry, I won't tell him anything.
Priscilla offered a smile, both satisfied and slightly surprised by my brutal honesty.
Priscilla: I underestimated you. You are quite interesting for a commoner. Most men kneel before they even speak.
With a sneer, I replied, playing the game of cynicism
Me: I see I've been upgraded. From peasant of the streets to commoner, that's interesting. I'm touched.
Priscilla: It seems I've found a commoner who shares my passion, observing human weaknesses.
Me: Unlike you, I use people for my personal gain, not for fun. Fun is for those who have time.
Priscilla: More and more interesting. You have the arrogance of ambition, Trizz.
Al, who had remained silent and visibly confused by our strange conversation, started the carriage.
A few minutes later, we stopped in front of the castle. Subaru was waiting for us there. He was totally confused to see me emerge from such a luxurious vehicle, in the company of his new sworn enemy.
Subaru: What are you doing here? I thought you were at the inn?! Did you betray me?
Me: I'm here to watch you, as I promised Emilia and Roswaal. I knew you would be here. I anticipated your stupidity, my friend.
Subaru: If you're here to stop me from joining Emilia, you're wasting your time. I'm not moving!
With a disarming and calculated smile, I replied, dealing the final blow to his resistance
Me: Don't worry, I'll just say I lost sight of you. I'm here to cover your back, if you mess anything up. We're friends, aren't we, Subaru?
A smile lit up Subaru's face, his paranoia immediately flying away.
Subaru: Yes, we're friends! Let's go help Emilia, she needs us!
"How naive... This idiot will be much easier to manipulate than I thought. His emotional dependence on Emilia is my biggest tool."
Subaru then looked at Priscilla, perplexed.
Subaru: Why did you bring us with you? You didn't need help!
Priscilla: It seemed amusing to me to see two commoners join the Royal Selection. I'm sure your presence at the castle will create some excitement. And besides, you're the perfect idiot to test my patience.
She fixed her gaze on me, an amused smile on her lips. I ignored her and turned to Subaru. He whispered something in my ear.
Subaru: I think she's interested in you. This is your chance to get noticed.
I didn't reply to his whisper and continued to contemplate the castle's lush scenery, mentally preparing for the chaos ahead.
We found ourselves in a corridor adorned with shimmering armor, the opulence of the Kingdom of Lugnica displayed with every step. I was amazed, but the feeling of peace didn't last. In front of us stood a large red door, guarded by an impeccable knight, a man with green hair named Marco.
In front of us stood a large red door, guarded by an impeccable knight, a man with green hair named Marco
He looked at us one by one, his brow furrowed, then sighed.
Marco: Everyone is waiting for you inside...
His gaze fixed on me with insistent curiosity, lingering on my carmine eyes.
Marco: I apologize for asking this, Priscilla-sama, but is this man part of your family? The color of his eyes is... striking.
"Why is he asking that? It's obviously not the case... Cursed be the color of my eyes, a symbol of my misfortune and my involuntary link to authority."
Me: No, Marco-sama, we are not of the same blood. I am merely a private servant of Priscilla-sama. I was recently hired.
Priscilla: Don't worry. He is with me. It is my privilege to make mortals languish, even with my subordinates.
Marco, still confused but constrained by Priscilla's status, let us enter. Behind the door, hundreds of knights, mages, and nobles were waiting for us. Shock crossed Emilia's face when she saw us, and Roswaal barely hid his amusement behind his clown paint. Subaru, meanwhile, was paralyzed by fear and tension.
I started thinking about the best way to gain the favor of the other candidates and knights without drawing attention. "Stay invisible... stay invisible..."
My thoughts were interrupted. Priscilla leaned her back against me, a sensual and calculated pressure that took my breath away. Everyone was looking at us, surprised by her intimate public behavior.
Trizz, don't crack. No one but you knows she's just trying to ridicule you. Don't fall for her game. She wants to see me blush.
I regained my composure after a silent sigh, whispering so only she could hear.
Me: Priscilla-sama, what are you doing? Do you prefer to lower your reputation by cozying up to someone like me, all for your amusement? The game is too easy, find something else.
Priscilla: Does it bother you that much? Your heart is beating fast.
I lowered my voice even more.
Me: You're wasting your time. I won't fall for your game. You're the one who's going to end up disappointed.
She stepped away with a mocking smile. I'll never wash these clothes...
Priscilla: By what right are you staring at my private servant, you poor girls? He is here for my visual pleasure, not yours.
Me: Aren't you exaggerating a bit...?
Roswaal stepped toward us, his enigmatic smile stretching even wider.
Roswaal: Please forgive my servant and our guest for the trouble caused. I see Trizz-kun has already met Priscilla-sama.
"What a scary clown! What's his plan after sending me here? Roswaal knew I would be a target for Priscilla, and it was deliberate."
Priscilla moved ahead, giving me a satisfied smile that I returned with a mocking look.
Emilia: What are you doing here? You told me you would stay quietly at the inn. Subaru!
Me: I was forced to come... by my duty. And Subaru by his own stupidity.
Subaru remained silent, overwhelmed by his guilt, unable to defend himself.
It's fine, everything is unfolding just like in the anime. I just need to stay away from Subaru and not draw attention to myself. That's now impossible.
???: The Council of Sages is making its entrance!
I pulled out of my dark thoughts seeing a group of people pass. "The big mouths are showing up... Interesting." One more step before the speech.
Al: Those are the Sages. We should stop there, I think. It's time for the presentation.
Subaru, finding his voice again, insisted.
Subaru: I have the right to stay too! I'm Emilia's butler!
Roswaal: Well, let's say it looks amusing to me... You can accompany him, can't you, my dear Trizz-kun? I wouldn't want you to be bored observing the debates from afar.
Me (with a forced smile): If you say so. (My heart was pounding) Let's stop over there with the others. I just need to stop him from opening his mouth.
Emilia, panicked by Roswaal's words, intervened.
Emilia: Wait, Roswaal! If they are allowed to stay, they will have to... They will have to behave!
Roswaal: Emilia-sama, the conference is about to begin, please go to the center.
Emilia: You owe me an explanation!
Me: I'll give you all the details, I promise. Afterward, when we are safe.
She seemed slightly reassured, and her worry decreased, accepting the postponement of the discussion.
I headed toward the other knights dressed in white and met Reinhard.
Reinhard: I'm happy to see you again. The last time I saw you... you were in a pitiful state.
Me: I know, half my body was burned. And you, you were the late hero.
Reinhard showed a guilty look, his face distorted by remorse.
Reinhard: I apologize. If I had arrived earlier, I could have at least...
Me: Stop apologizing. What's done is done. Everyone got out alive. Plus, I'm sure Felt is the fifth royal candidate.
Reinhard was shocked, his blue eyes widening.
Reinhard: How do you know? Only the insignia can confirm that!
Me: I just noticed the insignia shining in her palm. (Easy lie, he'll accept the coincidence)
Subaru: Believe me, it's better not to try to understand how he knows all this. He's weird, but he's on our side.
I noticed a demi-human approaching us. It was Felix Argyle, Crusch's knight. Of course, this guy had to notice us...
Felix: Nyou! The blood-eyed boy is back? And still as impolite!
Me: Don't call me that. My name is Trizz.
Reinhard: Is he a friend of yours?
Subaru: What do you mean "a"? It's clearly a woman!
Me: It's a man, didn't you notice? His name is Felix.
Subaru started looking at Felix like a rare creature, his confusion overriding his guilt. Julius arrived, but I didn't notice him immediately. I was too busy analyzing how I could steal Emilia from Subaru and defeat the Cult with the help of Elsa and Meili. My own ambition was taking over.
[Third-Person Point of View - The Ceremony]
All candidates were lined up in the center of the hall, in a bad mood because the Selection was delayed. Marco, stepping forward to speak, explained that their presence was due to the new Dragon Prophecy.
Reinhard then stepped forward to join Marco at the center and announced that he had found the fifth candidate, Felt.
Reinhard: Thank you for honoring our presence, Felt-sama.
Felt, irritated by this forced etiquette and oppressive room, attempted to kick Reinhard. He dodged with disconcerting ease, the movement as light as a feather. She then insulted him, then her eyes swept the crowd before settling on Subaru and me, confused.
Felt: What are you doing here? And why is this knight clown with me?
Subaru: It's been a while since...
Felt ignored his attempt at approach, turning to me with a softer gaze, a semblance of recognition.
Felt: I see you're well, Trizz... (She then looked at Subaru, her face twisted) But Subaru, you look dumber than usual.
Subaru, annoyed by her contempt, stepped forward to taunt her. But before he could open his mouth, Felt acted by reflex and gave him a sharp kick to the shins, causing him to groan in pain and recoil.
Subaru: (Groaning in pain) Don't worry about him, Trizz. Sometimes he thinks that way... with his feet.
Subaru, rubbing his leg...
Felt: If you say so... When he comes to, tell him I said hello. Goodbye. I have to go back.
Felt rejoined the center of the hall, and made her insignia shine, thus confirming her status. Reinhard explained that he had found her in the slums, which caused murmurs of discontent among the nobles. Priscilla laughed, mocking Felt, and verbally attempted to attack her. Fortunately, Reinhard apologized, and Emilia protected Felt.
Priscilla: The world was created for me. This Selection is useless. Just bow down at my feet, and everything will be fine. This slum dweller has no business being here.
She turned her gaze toward me, a knowing smile, aware that I was looking at her
She turned her gaze toward me, a knowing smile, aware that I was looking at her. I preferred to ignore her, contempt being the only weapon I possessed.
Crusch: When I am Queen, I will make the Dragon's Oath forgotten. The Kingdom of Lugnica does not belong to the Dragon. I will be the sole sovereign.
Anastasia: I'm the greedy type and I desire everything
Anastasia: I'm the greedy type and I desire everything. Like business success, I want my own country. A nation for merchants!
Emilia: I wish to unite the people, create a country where all citizens are equal! The kingdom must learn compassion
Emilia: I wish to unite the people, create a country where all citizens are equal! The kingdom must learn compassion.
Just as the atmosphere seemed to calm down, Felt, annoyed and angry to be the center of this political circus, burst out.
Felt: Wait! Don't imagine things! I never asked to be Queen! Who would want to participate in a Royal Selection?! It's absurd!
A noble began to complain about Felt's "unworthy" behavior. Then, a sage with giant eyebrows insulted Emilia and her race, and that's when Subaru lost his footing, chaos becoming his only reason to act.
Subaru: Stop your crap! You have no idea who Emilia is!
Emilia's eyes widened, shocked and horrified. Roswaal displayed a sadistic smile, and I snapped back to reality, my strategic thoughts stopping dead.
Trizz: (Whispering, alarmed) What's going on? He did it!
A knight, amused by the disorder, explained that Subaru had gone mad. I sighed. No need to intervene, the scenario was already launched. I retreated into my thoughts, far from this imminent chaos.
I retreated into my thoughts, far from this imminent chaos
Emilia: Stop it... It's fine... Don't get involved!
Subaru: No! You're serious! Apologize to Emilia! You're insulting a lady!
Emilia: Stop it!
She turned to present herself before the Sages and the other candidates again, desperately trying to salvage the disaster.
The Old Sage: Who exactly is this man to you? What is his role?
Before Emilia could explain, Subaru stepped forward and introduced himself as Emilia's best knight, just after his friend Trizz, who was still "afk" in his thoughts.
Subaru: I am Natsuki Subaru, the best knight of Her Excellency Emilia, right after Trizz!
The Old Sage: Does he say, "knight"? He has nor title, nor manners!
Roswaal: Well, he knows enough about our world... to give himself airs.
Julius stepped toward Subaru, his gaze of high-handed politeness. He asked him a question about the nature of a knight, but Subaru panicked. He stammered that he just wanted to make Emilia a Queen. Julius, with an annoyed sigh, looked at the other boy with carmine eyes who had remained silent.
Roswaal: Our Emilia-sama already has a future knight... Don't you, Trizz-kun?
[Trizz's Point of View]
I was lost in my thoughts, trying to recall the entirety of the Old Sage's dialogue, when I felt a glacial hand on my shoulder, brutally snapping me back to reality. All candidates and knights were staring at me, awaiting my response. Julius noticed I hadn't heard his question and repeated it, in a louder, more piercing voice.
Julius: Do you see yourself as a knight? Do you have the skills or the dignity to be one? Please answer.
What is this guy telling me? What do you mean, "knight"? Subaru's humiliation was already sealed, why involve me?
Me: Well, first, explain to me what's going on before asking me that question... I am not the scapegoat for your farce.
Julius: Your friend here said he was a knight and insulted all the true Imperial Knights present. He has sullied the honor of the profession.
That's a good start... I hope this will create an irreparable rift in Subaru and Emilia's relationship. That's the goal.
Me: By the way, I see myself neither as a knight, nor as someone who could be a knight one day. I am a servant, and that's all.
Julius stared at me for a moment, his expression revealing nothing.
Julius: I apologize for asking you the same question, but your appearance is much more developed than your friend's. Are you sure you are not a knight?
"My appearance? Ram had told me about my appearance... I see my training paid off, but I can't afford it." Subaru, behind Julius, was pleading with his eyes for me to lie.
Me (with a smile): Yes, I am not a knight, and neither is my friend. He's just emotional and thoughtless. Nothing more.
"I hope it works, but I still humiliated him."
Subaru was carried out of the hall by the knights. The royal candidates continued to stare at me. It's truly terrifying. I need to leave this place as soon as possible. I succeeded in this part of my plan, Subaru is now in the position of the humiliated one who messed everything up.
Before I could leave, a female voice full of arrogance stopped me.
Priscilla: I was thoroughly entertained. Your clown was really interesting. Too bad you didn't participate. Next time, you will be my pawn in my divine game.
Me: So the sun likes to see me shine with her? That interests me, but later. I have a tight schedule I have to babysit an idiot.
Priscilla: Who gave you permission to leave?
I ignored her and found myself in a luxurious white room, where Subaru was angry, his fists clenched in frustration.
Subaru: Why didn't you agree to be a knight?! That way, we could help Emilia! Why were you selfish?! You had the perfect opportunity!
Me: Subaru, if I had said I was a knight, the green-haired woman, Crusch, would have discovered my true nature through her Divine Protection. I murmured (And my "true nature" is not meant for knights)
Subaru calmed down but redirected his anger toward the others, avoiding reflecting on my evasive remark.
Subaru: These nobles and Sages who insult Emilia! They know nothing about her! We have to stay near her to protect her from these guys!
Me: Yes! I'm with you! (Subtle irony)
"At least, that keeps me away from his anger radar and prevents me from drawing attention to myself."
Then, three knights entered Reinhard, Felix, and... Julius.
Julius: I'm sorry to have come so abruptly, but...
Subaru cut him off, without any hint of respect.
Subaru: What do you want to do with us, exactly? Do you want to give us another lesson in etiquette, Mr. Perfect?
Julius: You introduced yourself as a knight, but you hide like a rat behind your friend. This lack of honor must be corrected.
Subaru: Is that a problem for you?! Mr. Know-It-All Knight! We don't need your sermons!
"The argument was less brutal in the anime and novel... I think my intervention directly changed their relationship". The hostility is much stronger.
Julius: The reason for my presence was to challenge you. Both of you
Wait, he made a mistake. He didn't say "me" ?
Me: What do you mean "both of you"? I don't understand, Julius. Explain yourself.
Julius: Don't worry. I didn't just come for you, but also for your friend. You lied about your knight status to cover for him. Do you accept the duel?
Me: I am not a knight!
"He was challenging me to a duel, too, not just Subaru!" It was unexpected, but I sensed Roswaal had to be behind this pressure.
Subaru: I accept the duel! Is it a two-on-one?
Julius sneered, the disdain visible in his eyes.
Julius: No. It will be one at a time. You will go first, Subaru.
I think I have too much influence on Subaru, but that will help me with my plan.
[Third-Person Point of View]
Subaru entered the arena, facing Julius. Reinhard and Trizz waited on the side, two involuntary spectators. Reinhard was worried, but he gave the signal to start reluctantly.
Subaru attacked Julius first, throwing himself at him with the fury of an amateur. But Julius blocked his blow with his wooden sword and followed up with a flurry of blows at lightning speed. Subaru, disadvantaged by his complete lack of training, attempted to use "Shamak," his shadow magic. But in vain. Julius, with a simple movement of his sword, dissipated the fog and relentlessly struck Subaru's face with his wooden sword.
The fight was already over. Subaru was on the ground, his face bruised, broken, and humiliated. Trizz stepped forward, his gaze cold, ready to face his own punishment. His turn was coming.
Julius continued to connect blows, his fury blinding him, not out of hatred, but excessive moral zeal. The knights, who were applauding at first, fell silent. Their cheers gave way to pity and sadness as they saw Subaru's broken and tormented silhouette. The sight was unbearable.
If you don't stop, you're going to kill him! My inner voice screamed, my heart pounding. What should I do? If I intervene, a new loop risks complicating my situation! But if he dies, my whole plan fails!
But I didn't have time to think anymore. My body acted on its own, reacting to the immediate threat. I activated my Authority, I masked the dark red aura that exploded around me. I charged Julius, my muscles hardened by the influx of energy from Pride.
The knights, in shock from the interruption, watched my arrival, their surprise momentarily overshadowing the brutality of the duel.
Me: Julius! You're going to kill him! What the hell are you doing?! Have you lost your mind?!
Subaru lost consciousness under one last blow, his face swollen and bruised, falling heavily to the ground. I glared at Julius, rage surging in my throat.
Julius: I apologize... (His face was strangely pale) I think I was a bit too heavy-handed. Pick up that sword on the ground.
Healers rushed to take Subaru away. I caught Emilia's gaze. She was pleading with me not to continue the fight. Reinhard's face was distorted by guilt and helplessness, knowing his duty prevented him from intervening.
Me: I'm ready. Let's start this damn fight. I'm going to make you regret raising your hand against him.
Julius: (His gaze had returned to cold determination) Let's begin this fight.
Reinhard tried to intervene one last time, but I gave him a forced look of confidence. He sighed heavily and gave the starting signal.
I decided not to reactivate my Authority at full power, fearing to reveal too much of my nature. For now, I would rely on my instinct and my experience with the sword, inherited from my clandestine duel with Wilhelm van Astrea. I attacked Julius first, but he remained on the defensive, blocking every blow with disconcerting ease.
I struck with my full power toward his left side, a blow meant to break his guard, but with incredible pressure, he blocked my attack, his wrist not wavering. I counterattacked immediately, but he retaliated with surgical precision, forcing me to back off.
He began to follow up with violent and precise blows, rapid bursts that only my body, accustomed to extreme training, managed to keep up with. My body moved instinctively, my instinct guiding me through the storm of steel. My endurance, supported by the residual energy, allowed me to dodge and counter the attacks much more easily than I should have. Dust rose with every step, every blow, every dodge. The wooden swords clashed with a dry, unsettling sound. I felt the adrenaline filling my veins and my muscles hardening, adapting to every blow.
"I wonder if Elsa's attack would work with a wooden sword... I'll see about that on the last blow, if I still have the strength to land it."
Third-Person POV
While we were exchanging dozens of blows, a crowd formed around the arena.
A knight rushed into the candidates' hall, stressed.
Knight: Ladies! Sir Julius is fighting a man who manages to counter his attacks with disconcerting ease! I've never seen anything like it!
Anastasia: I don't need to see this fight, I already know the outcome.
Priscilla: That might surprise you, merchant. Does that man have eyes like mine? .
Knight: Yes, red eyes like yours, Priscilla-sama.
Anastasia: I'll never understand your motivations. Did you see something interesting in this man?
Priscilla ignored her question and headed toward the arena, a triumphant smile on her lips.
Felt: (She rushed) My big brother is fighting? I want to see this brawl! I have to see this!
Crusch: I'll go. Maybe this fight will be entertaining. A man who holds his own against Julius deserves to be watched.
In the arena, the fight continued, with increasingly violent and controlled blows. Julius backed up to catch his breath and regain his seriousness.
Julius: You earn my respect, Trizz. I wonder how someone like you is not yet a knight. Your technique is not refined, but your instinct is deadly.
trizz: I don't know what you're talking about. I never wanted to be one, and I don't see the point. Protocol is not my forte.
[Trizz's Point of View]
Time froze. It was the perfect moment to negotiate.
Me: I have an offer, Julius.
Julius: Which one? If it is worthy of our duel.
Me: If you beat me, I agree to be a knight. But if I win, you publicly apologize to Subaru and you agree to train him to become a knight.
Julius's face twisted in surprise. The offer was a matter of honor.
Julius: I accept your offer. Let's start this duel seriously. You have no chance of winning.
A dark smile appeared on my face. It was a guaranteed win.
Me: Plus, your mistress and the other candidates are watching us. You can't afford to be lax. You could show them your true strength.
I reactivated my Authority to the maximum to increase my strength and speed. Julius attacked first, brutally. I narrowly dodged. Every attack he launched was calculated and fluid. The swords clashed with increasing violence, as if to break our bones.
The burden on my body was getting heavier and heavier. Sweat was dripping down my forehead, mixed with dust. Julius was toying with me, but he felt my resistance.
Julius pushed back my sword with a grace I would never possess. He got into position, ready to shatter my ribs, but I managed to counter every blow, every movement. Dust rose violently. My endurance was dropping, and I felt Julius tiring more and more from having to exert such effort against a non-knight.
Julius: This will be our last attack. Get ready. This is my blow of honor.
Me: Julius, pride can blind you. A friend's advice. (This was my last gamble, my final word)
I backed up three meters to take a deep breath. I'm going to use Elsa's technique, a low blow meant to destabilize the internal balance. Here and now. I had trained for it for three weeks.
We charged toward each other at superhuman speed. Before I knew it, my sword shattered into four pieces under the pressure. A violent blow broke my ribs and chest. I was thrown two meters away from Julius, then I started vomiting blood.
But a satisfied smile appeared on my face.
I... landed my attack... Hahahaha... Good night, Julius...
Before I lost consciousness, I saw Julius's wooden sword snap in half. His black top split open, and a line of blood appeared on his stomach. His eyes filled with horror and incomprehension. Blood started flowing from his mouth, and I fell into darkness.