Silver Lies

It hadn't been long since they arrived in the capital together—just a few short minutes at most. But even in that fleeting window of time, Subaru's mind had already become a storm of thoughts, strategies, and contingency plans. His brain never truly rested anymore. As they emerged from the shifting shadows of his power, the morning sun greeted them like a herald of fate, bathing the quiet streets in a golden light that shimmered against the stone walls of the capital.

Carefully, Subaru lowered Beatrice from his arms, the small girl's weight barely noticeable compared to the gravity of everything else resting on his shoulders. The sudden brilliance of the sun made him squint.

"Yeah... I gotta admit, I've come a long way in controlling this ability," he said under his breath, dusting off his worn-out cloak with one hand while brushing away the lingering cold of the shadow realm from his back.

Beatrice gave a small nod as she stepped down with his help, her expression composed but quietly impressed. Her eyes scanned their surroundings with the precision of someone who expected trouble to be lurking in every corner. "Betty would say the same. Subaru's improved remarkably. Honestly, I didn't think it was possible to cross this distance in such a short span. Your potential... it's far greater than I assumed."

Before Subaru could respond, a voice interrupted them—dry, unimpressed, and as sarcastic as ever.

Hovering slightly above the ground with arms folded across his chest, Flugel appeared with a scowl that danced on the edge of exasperation. "Tch. Barely. Don't let it get to his head, Betty. The last thing we need is him flying off into the clouds—or worse, off a cliff."

Subaru shot him a look, the corners of his mouth twitching into a half-smile. "Hey! A little praise wouldn't kill you, you know. It's not like people are lining up to compliment me these days."

Flugel rolled his eyes with deliberate flair. "Sure. You want a medal too?"

Their usual bickering carried on as the three of them began making their way through the slowly awakening city. The capital was just starting to stretch and yawn into a new day. Market vendors raised the awnings of their stalls, fresh bread and sizzling spices filled the air, and sleepy-eyed children chased each other through narrow alleys. Subaru and Flugel continued their playful barbs while Beatrice, her small hand tightly gripping Subaru's, walked quietly beside them, observing more than participating. Occasionally, a small smile would grace her lips—but she said nothing, content in her role as a silent guardian.

Soon, the trio arrived at the front gates of the Hoshin Company, a towering structure of pale stone and reinforced iron. The insignia of the company—a silver windmill surrounded by stars—gleamed in the early sun. As they passed through the grand archway, a shrill, delighted voice echoed through the spacious entrance hall.

"Hellooo!! Are you guys okay? I missed you sooo much!"

Like a small rocket, Mimi barreled toward Subaru. Her oversized sleeves flapped like wings, and her cat ears twitched with excitement. With a joyful leap, she wrapped herself around his head in an aggressive embrace.

Beatrice's eyes narrowed slightly, but she said nothing. Subaru, used to this sort of greeting by now, gently grabbed the collar of Mimi's coat and lifted her off with a slight grunt. "Thanks for the welcome, Mimi. We're doing fine. How about you? Been causing trouble as usual?"

Mimi's grin stretched from ear to ear. Her eyes sparkled like twin gems. "Mimi's been great! I had three meat pies, two cream buns, and a whole basket of sweet rolls! But what's up with Beako and Subaru showing up like this? Do you have a mission? Is it something cool? Dangerous? Please tell me it's dangerous!"

Subaru laughed lightly as he set her down. "Something like that. Actually, we need to pick up a few things... quietly. Preferably without Anastasia knowing. Just a little private task. Nothing big."

Before he could say more, a calm, level voice sliced through the air like the edge of a knife. "Natsuki-kun. I do hope you realize that I hear everything that happens within these walls."

Subaru sighed through his teeth. Of course she's already listening. He turned slowly to find Anastasia standing just a few steps behind them, arms crossed neatly over her chest. Her Purple hair framed her face with sharp elegance, and her blue eyes were as clear and unreadable as polished gemstones.

He forced a smile and raised a hand in greeting. "Yo! Anastasia. Good to see you. And really, you don't have to keep using that formal tone with me. You've done a lot for me these past couple of months. Feels like we're past the client stage."

Anastasia raised one eyebrow, her lips quirking slightly. She didn't move, but the amusement in her eyes spoke volumes. "Thanks for asking. I'm well," she replied in a voice that was both poised and subtly teasing. She tilted her head just enough to make her meaning unmistakable. "And as for my tone... it's policy, dear. Professionalism is what keeps a company running."

From beside them, Mimi threw her hands into the air. "Mimi doesn't care about tone! Mimi just wants pastries!"

Anastasia gave her a soft smile and then returned her full attention to Subaru. "So. What is this thing you're so eager to keep me in the dark about?"

Subaru reached into his coat and pulled out a thickly folded parchment. He handed it to her, his expression suddenly serious. "It's still under development, so it needs to stay between us for now. I didn't want to risk word getting out before everything was finalized."

Anastasia accepted the document, unfolding it with care. Her eyes flicked across the contents, absorbing details in seconds. For a moment, her calm facade cracked. A glint of interest flashed in her gaze, and her mouth opened slightly as if to speak—but she quickly composed herself.

"Interesting," she murmured, folding the papers back with deliberate slowness. "We should talk more about this. My office. Follow me."

With that, she turned on her heel, her long coat fluttering behind her like a curtain being drawn. Subaru, Beatrice, and Mimi exchanged glances. Flugel had already disappeared again, bored of the scene. Subaru took a deep breath and followed after her, steps heavy with the weight of what was to come.

Subaru fell into step behind Beatrice, his footsteps echoing like soft percussion across the smooth, gleaming floor. Each step seemed to deepen the sense of luxury and rigid formality hanging in the air, as though the building itself wished to remind visitors of how important its business was. Meanwhile, Flugel floated aimlessly a few feet above the ground, drifting in lazy circles with a faint smirk on his face, his hands folded behind his head as if resting on a cloud.

Subaru cast him a sideways glare, a sigh slipping past his lips as he grumbled silently. "Oi, wise guy. Spill it. You knew Anastasia was going to be here the whole time, didn't you?"

Flugel yawned dramatically, stretching his arms wide. "Of course I did. I'm always in the know."

Subaru rolled his eyes, his lips curling into a sarcastic smile, though his eyes flashed with a trace of annoyance. "And you didn't think to mention this tiny detail to me? Care to explain why, oh illustrious sage?"

Flugel tilted his head to one side, grinning like a mischievous fox. "Because it was much more fun this way. Watching you stumble into that situation blind was a masterpiece of entertainment. The way your face twisted up trying to pretend you had it all under control… priceless. You're a terrible liar, by the way."

Subaru groaned, rubbing the bridge of his nose. "Sometimes I swear you're not a wise man but just an insufferable troll in disguise. And I'm pretty sure you enjoy being both."

Beatrice let out an exaggerated sigh, huffing as her smaller strides kept up with theirs. "Honestly, your bickering is practically background noise at this point, I suppose. But for the love of all that's good, it's too early for this chaos. Betty's head is splitting. Be quiet already."

"Fine," Subaru and Flugel replied in near-perfect unison, shooting each other begrudging looks.

As they reached the entrance to Anastasia's office, an oppressive silence settled over them like a velvet curtain. The vast room breathed a scent of old parchment, ink, and faint spices carried in from distant lands. Only the gentle rustle of shifting papers disturbed the hush. Sunlight streamed through towering windows, casting pale beams across polished wood and shelves stacked with ledgers and books, filling the room with a soft golden glow that made it seem both ancient and timeless.

Anastasia sat regally behind a large carved desk, her slender fingers deftly turning page after page. Her eyes scanned the documents with sharp precision, a faint line of concentration etched between her brows. Her lips were pursed in a small frown as she tapped her pen gently against the desk, the rhythmic ticking echoing like a distant clock.

"If I'm not mistaken," she spoke finally, her voice crisp and measured, carrying a note of genuine surprise, "we've discussed this project before. But I certainly didn't anticipate you moving forward with it so quickly—within just three months."

Subaru lifted his shoulders in a shrug that attempted to appear nonchalant, though determination shone unmistakably in his eyes. "This is just one of several projects I've got on the horizon. Some of them I was hoping to rope you into helping with. But first… electricity. Everything I need is written on that list."

The word seemed to ripple through the space, leaving a hush in its wake. In a world where the idea of electricity was closer to myth than reality, even Subaru's casual mention carried a shockwave of significance.

Anastasia did not immediately lift her eyes from her reading. Instead, she made a tiny flick of her wrist, a silent command to Hetaro, Mimi's quiet and dependable brother. Hetaro stepped forward swiftly, his presence almost ghostlike. He took the paper from Subaru, reviewed it with a neutral expression, then walked out the door as if he had never been there.

"Regrettably," Anastasia said coolly, folding her hands atop the desk, "most of the wire stock we had has already been traded or sold. Obtaining more will require effort—and no small expense. Still, I'll see what strings I can pull to have a shipment delivered to wherever you're staying by this evening."

Subaru's eyes narrowed, sharp with curiosity and a subtle edge of suspicion. "And just how do you happen to know where I'm staying?"

Anastasia finally looked up, her eyes glittering with mirth as a sly, catlike smile curved her lips. She tilted her head, her voice playful. "Come now, Subaru-kun~ You of all people should know better than to ask a merchant that question. A merchant's real business isn't just goods—it's knowing things other people don't."

Subaru's lips pressed into a thin line as his gaze grew darker. "Cut the mysterious nonsense. You already knew about my meeting with Crusch, didn't you?"

Anastasia's smile faltered, just slightly. Her cheeks puffed out in mock frustration, a gesture that was oddly childlike for someone typically so composed. There was a faint flush of pink on her face, betraying a flicker of embarrassment. Yet, the sparkle of mischief in her eyes never truly faded. "You won't even let me tease you properly. Hmph... You're no fun today. Anyway, yes, I'm already aware of your meeting with Crusch Karsten. That was scheduled two months ago, actually. The moment I saw you step into the capital, I figured today must be the day. And while we're on the subject... you haven't forgotten about Priscilla's gathering tomorrow, have you? I plan on attending that one as well."

Subaru let out a long, weary sigh, his shoulders slightly slumping. His eyes drifted toward the floor for a heartbeat. "So you figured it out just by deduction? Impressive guesswork. And no, I haven't forgotten about tomorrow. Emilia scheduled them both, back-to-back. Honestly, I'm bracing myself for how exhausting it's going to be."

Anastasia nodded slowly, her expression softening into something more empathetic. "Politics and business tend to bleed you dry if you're not prepared for them. They demand patience, endurance, and sometimes a stomach for things you don't want to stomach. But if you learn how to navigate the currents... you can bend the world in your favor."

Subaru offered a faint smile, one weighed down by the fatigue written into every line of his face. His eyelids felt like they carried sand, the burden of the day's events pressing against him with invisible hands. "I can definitely see that now. But enough talk. I should get going. We'll see each other again tomorrow, Anastasia."

He rose from his chair, Beatrice following suit beside him. The sound of their chairs scraping across the polished wooden floor echoed softly in the quiet room. They had barely turned toward the exit when Anastasia's voice called after them again, just a bit sharper, a bit more urgent.

"Leaving already? I thought we might have time to discuss your new invention," she said, a small touch of disappointment hidden beneath her otherwise composed tone.

Subaru paused and turned his head over his shoulder. A thin smile tugged at the edge of his lips, laced with a hint of amusement. "Don't worry. You'll be the first one to receive a working prototype. I'm even considering partnering with you for the production phase."

Anastasia didn't smile back. Instead, her gaze locked onto his with quiet intensity. It was the kind of look that stripped away masks. "If you sign with someone else, I'll be absolutely heartbroken," she said, her voice low and sincere. "So I'll be waiting. Don't keep me waiting too long."

Subaru gave her a respectful nod—an unspoken promise hanging between them—and turned back toward the door. The air between them, once filled with light banter and business tones, now carried an unspoken understanding. There was more to this partnership than numbers and prototypes. As the door clicked shut behind them, Subaru felt the weight on his shoulders press down harder.

In the hallway beyond the office, Flugel was still there, floating overhead with his usual disinterest. He looked like he hadn't moved an inch during the entire conversation.

"Seriously? You're this tired just from talking? What are you, a merchant or a paperweight?"

Subaru rolled his eyes in theatrical silence, not dignifying the comment with a reply.

Beatrice, who had quietly observed his mood, crossed her little arms and tilted her head as she walked beside him. "Betty thinks Subaru is tired because of the sheer number of things he's juggling lately. It's only natural."

Subaru stopped walking, glanced at her with soft appreciation, and then wordlessly scooped her into his arms. He exaggerated a sigh and rested his cheek against the top of her head. "Finally. Someone who understands the burdens I bear."

He gave her a playful squeeze, earning a half-hearted protest muffled by the crook of his arm. As they made their way down the hallway, some of the passing staff glanced at them curiously, whispering among themselves. Subaru, however, ignored the stares. He had no energy left to care.

They stepped out of the company building together, leaving behind the cool interior and stepping into the vibrance of the capital. The sky was a crisp, cloudless blue, and the sun shone down brightly from its throne above. Golden beams filtered through cloth canopies and between towering stone buildings, casting mosaic shadows across the bustling streets. The air smelled of fresh bread, sizzling oil, and morning dew that had yet to fully evaporate.

Vendors shouted their specials, street musicians strummed the strings of old but well-loved instruments, and children raced between stalls with laughter trailing behind them like streamers in the wind. Yet amidst all this color and chaos, Beatrice felt a strange stillness. Cradled in Subaru's arms like a porcelain doll, her head rested against his chest, half-lidded eyes blinking slowly as if in a trance.

"Betty wonders what our next move is," she murmured sleepily. Despite her initial embarrassment at being carried through the streets, she had grown accustomed to it. The heat of Subaru's body, the calm rhythm of his heartbeat, and the safety of his arms—all of it brought her an unexpected peace.

Subaru glanced down at her, a soft warmth blooming in his expression. His eyes reflected a stillness that rarely visited him, and his smile was tinged with fondness. "Honestly? I don't want to head to the Karsten estate right away. Want to spend a bit of time together first, Beako? Just the two of us."

Flugel's voice echoed from above, carried on a lazy breeze. "Meh. A quiet break sounds like a decent idea. Even I'm getting tired of watching you collapse."

Beatrice looked up at Subaru from the corner of her eye, then turned her face away, hiding a faint blush. She let out a breath through her nose, somewhere between a sigh and a hum. "Being by Subaru's side is already more than enough for Betty. But... since you're asking nicely, I suppose I can indulge you this once."

Subaru chuckled, adjusting his hold on her slightly. The city around them kept moving, unaware of the little moment of serenity shared between the boy and the girl in his arms. And for a while longer, at least, they would let themselves drift through that fleeting peace—together.

And so, the two of them—plus Flugel spinning and twirling lazily overhead—began wandering through the capital's bustling streets together. Subaru, determined to spoil Beatrice a little, led them into a bright pastry shop glowing with lantern light. The shelves were stacked high with tempting treats: fluffy cream puffs dusted in powdered sugar, delicate cinnamon twists, shiny fruit tarts topped with glistening glazes, and rows upon rows of honey-drenched sponge cakes. Subaru couldn't choose between them all and ended up buying an enormous assortment of pastries and cookies, easily enough to last a month, if not longer.

As they emerged carrying several bags overflowing with goodies, Beatrice cast Subaru a look that was half admiration, half exasperation.

"Why on earth did you buy so much? Betty isn't some insatiable glutton, you know."

Subaru blinked at the bags, then offered her a sheepish yet fond smile. "I might have gone overboard… but you and Hikari both adore sweet things, don't you? So why not indulge a little? Besides, it's always good to have extras. Maybe we'll share with the others."

Above them, Flugel rolled his eyes, his voice oozing disdain. "Tch. Don't throw your money around like it's worthless, Natsuki Subaru. The economy is a delicate piece of art, and you ought to respect the canvas."

Subaru shot back in a flat, matter-of-fact tone. "Money spent on Beako doesn't count as careless spending. It's called a strategic investment."

The three continued on, laughter echoing between the stone buildings as they made their way to the higher tiers of the capital. The streets grew quieter, the air crisper. From this elevated path, they could see the rooftops of the city sprawling beneath them, towers reaching toward the sky, and distant hills painted gold by the slanting light of the setting sun. A gentle breeze carried the mingled scents of distant hearth smoke, flowers, and the lingering sweetness of the pastry shop. Subaru drew in a slow, contented breath, feeling for a brief moment that all was right in the world.

Beatrice stood beside him, her twin tails of hair dancing lightly in the breeze, catching the golden glow of the late afternoon sun. The light bathed her delicate features in warmth, and for a moment, Subaru forgot about everything else. Her presence felt like a beacon in a world that too often teetered on the edge of despair.

Subaru shut his eyes, silently wishing that this peaceful scene could stretch on forever, untouched by the troubles awaiting them. In his heart, he knew such moments were fleeting—as fragile and as precious as the light breeze that whispered through the leaves overhead. If he could just hold onto this sliver of calm, perhaps the chaos wouldn't feel so overwhelming.

Suddenly, Subaru sensed movement behind him. A quick, alert tension coursed through his shoulders, a reflex born from too many ambushes and too many close calls. He clenched his fists without realizing it, but the voice that called out was warm and familiar, slicing through his wariness like sunlight through clouds.

"Subaru! It's been far too long. How've you been?"

Turning, Subaru found himself face-to-face with Reinhard, the red-haired knight whose scarlet hair shimmered in the fading sunlight. Reinhard approached with his usual grace, posture as perfectly straight as ever, a kind, genuine smile lighting up his features. His aura seemed almost luminous—a contrast to the fatigue Subaru had grown so accustomed to seeing in others.

"Ah, Red! Great to see you. I'm hanging in there. How about you?"

Reinhard closed the distance and extended a hand. Subaru clasped it firmly in a warrior's handshake, the grasp grounding him in a reality that, for once, didn't seem to be crumbling beneath his feet.

"I've been well. Doing my rounds in the capital as usual. I hope I'm not intruding on your outing."

Subaru waved him off with a quick shake of his head. "No way. We were about to head back, actually. It's rare to catch a moment like this."

Reinhard's blue eyes held a gentle warmth as they lingered on Subaru's face. "I heard you finally reunited with your sister. I'm truly glad for you. You should've told me before going off to Kararagi. I could've arranged some help through my connections."

Subaru paused, considering, then offered a small nod. He glanced toward Beatrice, who stood quietly watching them, before returning his gaze to Reinhard. "Everything just… happened so fast. I didn't even have time to plan. But in the end, it worked out. We're back together now, and that's what matters."

Reinhard's smile softened, though a faint shadow of regret flickered in his eyes. "You're right, of course. I just feel like I missed my chance to help."

Subaru lifted a hand dismissively, his voice more subdued now. "It's fine, really. Just knowing you'd be willing to help means a lot. Anyway, we should get moving. If I'm late, Emilia will chew me out. By the way… are you coming to the meeting tomorrow?"

Reinhard nodded. "Naturally. The Felt faction will be there. But let me warn you: my father will be attending too. He can be… rather difficult. Try not to take his words too personally. He speaks from a place of tradition, not always understanding."

Subaru tapped his chin, wearing a thoughtful expression. "I'll do my best. Thanks for the warning, Red. I'll keep my guard up—but maybe not too high. See you tomorrow."

After a few more words and a brief laugh shared between old friends, they said their farewells. Reinhard departed down the path toward the city center, his figure framed against the glowing horizon.

The sun continued its descent, deepening the sky into rich shades of orange and red. The air cooled slightly as the shadows lengthened, wrapping the world in a soft, dreamlike glow. Subaru turned into a narrow side street, lifting Beatrice into his arms as if she weighed nothing. Her tiny frame fit perfectly in his grasp, as though she had always belonged there.

The cobblestones echoed with the sound of their footsteps, and a hush fell over the quiet lane. Not silence—but peace. It was the kind of quiet that allowed thoughts to rise.

"Ready, Beako?"

Beatrice looped her arms around his neck, her voice small yet teasing. "Betty's probably going to freeze during the first jump. You Don't know how teleportation feels."

Subaru hugged her tighter, his tone low but reassuring. "Then let me take you somewhere you'll never be cold again. Somewhere warm. Somewhere safe."

Beatrice blinked slowly, her expression softening. "As long as you're there... Betty will be fine."

He closed his eyes, held his breath, and let the mana flow through his veins like a tide drawn by the moon. The moment his control reached its peak, the world beneath his feet seemed to melt away, as though reality itself bowed to the force of his will.

[Yin Step - Active]

They slipped into the world between moments, gliding through shadows that curled and stretched like living threads. The spiraling texture of shadow magic enfolded their bodies, weaving them into its tapestry like ghosts unbound by time or matter. All around them, the world fell silent, save for the synchronized rhythm of their heartbeats echoing like drums in an empty corridor.

"How is it now, Beako?" Subaru's voice wove gently through the dense shroud, hushed and laced with concern.

Beatrice gave a slight twitch. Her small body tensed, and her fingers tightened their grip on Subaru's sleeve with subtle desperation. "A little better, I suppose," she murmured, her voice nearly drowned by the hum of magical current.

The shadows swept them forward like a river carving a secret path through stone. Through bends and twists in space, they hurtled across the capital at a pace no horse or carriage could rival. The magic didn't just carry them; it cradled them, protected them, swallowed them whole. And for a few surreal seconds, there was nothing but motion and mana.

When they finally arrived at the grand gates of the Karsten estate, Subaru disengaged the skill. The flow of mana snapped shut like the final note of a song, and they emerged into daylight with an almost painful abruptness. The golden sun overhead pierced through the dark residue clinging to their forms, and both blinked in discomfort. It was as if reality had caught them sneaking out and forced them back into its embrace. 

Subaru staggered slightly as his boots touched the cold stone of the courtyard. The chill of the shadow realm hadn't quite left him. It clung to his skin and mind alike, whispering at the edges of his thoughts. Beatrice, silent beside him, shifted as if also brushing off an invisible shroud.

Before them stood the estate's enormous double doors, left slightly ajar. Clearly, Emilia's party had already entered. The stillness around the entrance spoke volumes; the air felt dense, like a room holding its breath before a verdict.

Subaru reached for Beatrice's hand and squeezed it gently. Together, they crossed the threshold—only to be stopped almost immediately by two uniformed guards. The men stood tall and tense, their posture rigid and their eyes sharp. They did not move with the casual ease of servants, but with the trained instincts of seasoned warriors. Their hands hovered dangerously close to their hilts.

"Who are you, and why are you at the Karsten estate?" one barked, voice clipped and suspicious.

Subaru stepped forward without hesitation, lifting his chin. He offered a courteous, calm tone, but didn't shrink away from authority. "Natsuki Subaru. I support Lady Emilia's candidacy."

Beatrice, with characteristic defiance, stepped beside him and said evenly, "Betty doesn't need an introduction."

The guards exchanged uncertain glances. It was clear they weren't used to this combination of confidence and irregularity. One of them, slightly taller and more muscular, took a step closer. His eyes narrowed, inspecting Subaru like one might a foreign relic—interesting, unfamiliar, and potentially dangerous.

"Listen, kid. This isn't a playground. Take your little sister and leave before we decide to give you a few scars to remember this by."

Subaru's jaw tightened. He had weathered threats before, but there was something about being dismissed so readily—especially in front of Beatrice—that rubbed him the wrong way. He sighed through his nose, raised his fingers with theatrical flair, and pointed.

"Oi. Look up."

The guards' instincts betrayed them. They glanced skyward—and that was all Subaru needed.

[Yin Step - Active]

In the blink of an eye, they vanished into the shadows. The air they had occupied rushed back into place with a whispering chill. The two guards jerked back, stunned.

—"W-What? Where did they go?"

+"Did you see that? That wasn't normal. They were just here."

—"Could be agents from Gusteko."

+"Yeah, that would explain it. Damn northern tricks."

With each theory they piled on, the true answer slipped further from reach. Their confusion quickly turned to gossip, and then to conjecture that had more to do with politics than actual events.

Meanwhile, Subaru and Beatrice had already reappeared in one of the inner halls of the Karsten manor. The corridor was quiet, lit with warm lamps that cast soft pools of light across the stone floor. Beatrice blinked rapidly, adjusting to the brightness.

Subaru rolled his shoulders, as if shaking off the last clingy remnants of the shadow world. A long exhale left his lungs, tension unwinding from the base of his spine.

"Betty is glad we got inside without needing to make a scene. If those guards had gone for their swords, she wouldn't have held back."

She took the lead, walking forward with steady steps. Her voice was neutral, yet there was an undercurrent of steel within it—a protective edge sharpened by experience. Despite her small frame, every step she took resonated with intention. Subaru watched her in silence for a beat longer than necessary. There was something magnetic about the contrast between her fragile form and the immense spirit she carried.

He caught up quickly, grinning. "I'm honestly more curious about the looks on their faces once they figure out we're already inside. Should be a treat."

As they continued deeper into the manor, the hallway stretched before them like a corridor between fates. They were no longer just intruders or allies—they were variables, unknown factors slipping into a delicate web of politics and power. The game had already begun. And neither shadows nor sunlight would conceal them for long.

Footsteps echoed even louder than before through the winding, dim stone corridors, bouncing off the walls like distant drumbeats. The flickering torchlight cast restless shadows over gleaming suits of armor and faded tapestries, giving the halls an almost haunted grandeur. A faint breeze whispered in from high windows, carrying the chill scent of stone and rain.

Around a sharp corner, Felix appeared, more dramatic than ever. His eyes sparkled with relief and excitement, cat ears twitching furiously, his entire expression radiating delight. He practically launched himself at Subaru, arms flung wide, his fluffy tail swishing in joyous arcs.

"Subaru-kyun? You're really here!! I thought you'd forgotten all about little old me!"

Subaru chuckled, half-smothered under Felix's enthusiastic embrace. "Yo! Ferris, how's everything going on your end?"

"I'm great, nya~ But you've got some explaining to do." Felix pulled back just enough to give Subaru a theatrical pout, big eyes shimmering with playful reproach mixed with genuine fondness.

Subaru rubbed the back of his neck. "Sorry I couldn't make it to your meeting. I had some… very important things to handle."

Felix giggled, the sound ringing musically through the corridor. "Oh, Subaru-kyun, you know I'm just teasing, nya~ Family is everything, after all."

Subaru flicked a look toward Beatrice, sharing a secret, silent smile that made a glow of warmth spread through his chest.

"Of course. Speaking of family… where's Emilia?"

Felix turned with a flourish, his cloak swirling around him. "She's in Crusch-sama's chambers. Come on, they've all been waiting for you."

The three of them set off again, passing window after window streaming pale daylight onto polished floors. Every footstep echoed longer now, as if the corridors themselves were holding their breath. The scent of parchment, candle wax, and cool stone hung in the air, adding weight to the growing anticipation thrumming in Subaru's chest.

At last, they reached a pair of tall, ornately carved doors that seemed to radiate silent authority. Subaru drew in a deep breath, bracing himself. There was no going back.

Felix pushed the doors open with an almost regal flair. "Pardon the interruption, everyone! Look who I've brought, nya~ Subaru-kyun decided to grace us with his presence!"

Subaru and Beatrice paused on the threshold, taking in the sight before stepping inside. Instantly, the room's serious energy wrapped around them like a heavy cloak. Inside were Rem, Emilia, Hikari, Meili, and Puck, gathered in apparent discussion. The absence of Elsa struck Subaru immediately—a silent confirmation that his previous instructions had been obeyed.

Subaru's eyes roved slowly over the chamber. Directly across from Emilia sat Crusch Karsten and Wilhelm van Astrea. Crusch exuded quiet command, her posture impeccable, while Wilhelm sat beside her, the Sword Demon's sharp blue gaze alert and perceptive. Felix slipped to stand near Crusch, his tail still swishing gently as he offered Subaru a gentle, encouraging smile.

Maintaining a perfectly measured composure, Subaru advanced into the room, offering a courteous bow. "I apologize for arriving late," he said, his voice calm yet edged with steely composure, revealing both respect and cautious distance.

Crusch Karsten rose with deliberate elegance, eyes steady. "You are late, but nonetheless, you are welcome here, Natsuki Subaru-dono," she replied, every syllable precise and dignified. The authority and grace in her speech were hallmarks of her unshakable presence.

Subaru moved slowly toward the vacant seat beside Emilia. As he settled into it, Hikari scampered over, planting herself firmly at his left side. Beatrice, true to habit, claimed her usual place on Subaru's right knee. Subaru paused, taking in the warmth of their closeness, then reached over to gently tousle Hikari's hair, a soft smile touching his lips. In that instant, the weight of political tensions and looming threats faded, leaving behind a fleeting but priceless sense of peace—a delicate island of serenity amid the storm that surrounded them all.

Everyone in the room had their eyes briefly drawn to the heartwarming scene unfolding before them. The familial bond between Subaru and Hikari exuded an almost tangible warmth, a gentle aura that softened the otherwise tense atmosphere of the meeting. Crusch, in particular, seemed visibly affected by the sight. Her eyes narrowed thoughtfully, and her lips parted as she took a moment to gather her words.

"So, Subaru-dono, Hikari-chan is your sister," she said, her tone calm but filled with mild astonishment. "I must admit, the resemblance is striking. I hadn't expected it, but now that I see you together, it's quite undeniable."

Subaru gave a small, almost sheepish nod. With a faint, lopsided smile, he replied, "Let's just say strong genes run in the family." His tone was light and informal, but there was an undercurrent of genuine pride and affection. It wasn't just a casual quip—it was his way of shielding a far deeper story.

Crusch paused for a longer moment this time. Her expression shifted from curiosity to something more measured, something bordering on suspicion—but not unkindly so. Her gaze sharpened, sweeping over Subaru as though reading the chapters of his life etched into his posture. "If you don't mind my asking," she said carefully, her voice balanced and deliberate, "while you were in Lugunica, why was your sister all the way in a distant land like Kararagi? What exactly happened to separate you?"

Subaru's left eye twitched ever so slightly, a reflex betraying his inner unease. The question was reasonable—too reasonable. "Is this an interrogation?" he wondered inwardly. It didn't feel like an accusation, nor a casual inquiry. No, this felt more like a test. A probe. A subtle pressure on a wound he had not fully bandaged.

As tension coiled around Subaru's spine, a subtle shift in the room occurred—one only he and Hikari noticed. From a corner just outside the awareness of everyone else, Flugel materialized, as though stepping out of a fold in the world itself. His figure was confident as always, posture relaxed, but there was an unfamiliar seriousness in his eyes. The playful mystique he often carried had been replaced by focused intensity.

"Yes, this is clearly a form of interrogation," Flugel's voice echoed directly into Subaru's consciousness, more thought than sound. "Crusch Karsten has a well-earned reputation for detecting lies. She'll feel it in your tone, your breath, your hesitation. So listen well: say the Witch Cult attacked your village when you were children. You got separated in the chaos. That much is partially true. Say you thought she was dead—until Anastasia recognized her. Hikari-chan, support the story. And don't worry—I'll muddle her sense just enough that she won't sense the lie."

The strategy etched itself into Subaru's mind like an incantation. As if synchronized by instinct, he turned his head slightly and caught Hikari's eye. She gave a subtle, affirming nod. Her silent promise to support him, no matter what.

Subaru inhaled quietly and turned back to Crusch. A veil of solemnity settled over his face, his features softening into a pained yet composed expression. "When we were children," he began, voice steady but touched with sorrow, "our village was attacked by the Witch Cult. The attack came suddenly, violently. Fires. Screams. Chaos. In the midst of it all, I lost sight of my family. I couldn't protect Hikari... and soon after, I was told she hadn't survived."

There was no tremble in his voice, no theatrical pause—but the weight of grief carried in each word was unmistakable. "But she had escaped. With a group of survivors, she was taken far away, to Kararagi. I didn't know. For years, I wandered—lost, broken, carrying the guilt of not being able to save her. My path eventually brought me to Lugunica, but the emptiness followed."

Crusch listened intently, her gaze unreadable. Somewhere deep inside, her instincts stirred, probing for inconsistencies, subtle tremors in his voice that might betray falsehood. But nothing felt out of place. Subaru's emotions resonated with her, raw and real. What she didn't know was that Flugel's unseen presence clouded her innate ability to sense deception.

Subaru leaned forward slightly, his hands clasped loosely in front of him. "The rest, as you know, came later. During a business meeting with Anastasia-sama, by the purest chance, she recognized Hikari. The moment I heard the possibility, I didn't think—I just acted. I traveled to Kararagi without hesitation, not knowing if I would find a grave... or a miracle. And somehow, beyond all reason, I found her. Alive."

The room seemed to hold its breath. Silence crept over them like a thick mist. Meili, normally so lively, had her head lowered in quiet contemplation. Emilia glanced at Subaru, her eyes clouded with concern and a fragile hope she couldn't quite voice. Wilhelm remained statuesque, his silence less of detachment and more of thoughtful respect. He studied Subaru not with doubt, but with a soldier's understanding of pain and reunion.

Crusch eventually nodded, her face composed but her tone softer than before. "What you've shared carries the weight of a painful yet believable fate," she said. "Life doesn't always give us clear paths. But the strength to endure, to keep searching despite the pain... that speaks volumes. I hope the time you now share with your sister will begin to mend what has been broken."

Subaru offered a small, genuine smile in return. His gaze drifted toward Hikari, whose eyes met his with quiet affection. She smiled too, the expression barely noticeable but filled with unspoken words. Beatrice, ever present at his side, leaned gently into his arm. She said nothing—didn't need to. Her silence, more eloquent than any words, conveyed a deep and complete understanding.

In that moment, surrounded by companions old and new, Subaru felt the faintest sense of peace. A fragile calm, perhaps temporary—but real.