16

Subaru's journey to develop his inventions was anything but smooth, yet he pushed forward, each failure only fueling his determination. Days turned into weeks, and weeks stretched into months. He spent countless hours poring over blueprints, experimenting with materials, and scouring Kagaragi for craftsmen willing to take on his unconventional ideas. The road was long and filled with trial after trial, each setback testing his resolve.

Through it all, he was never alone. Heinkel's sarcastic encouragement, Halibel's quiet support, and Beatrice's knowledge kept him going, even when the challenges seemed insurmountable.

In the bustling heart of Kagaragi, Subaru found an old workshop run by an eccentric engineer who agreed to help, though not without the occasional jibe about Subaru's "outlandish dreams." The workshop was filled with tools, metal parts, and scrap pieces—just the environment he needed to bring his vision to life. Here, surrounded by the hum of machinery and the scent of oil and metal, Subaru immersed himself in his work.

Finally, after months of failures, adjustments, and rebuilding from scratch, Subaru created something that worked: a fully functioning refrigerator.

He stood in the workshop, staring at his creation with a mixture of disbelief and pride. The device was a modest-looking box with reinforced panels, powered by a makeshift cooling system he had devised through trial and error. It wasn't as advanced as the fridges he remembered from his own world, but it worked—keeping items cool and fresh.

Subaru let out a breath, his heart racing as he opened the door to the fridge. The inside was cool, a small container of water sitting frostily on one of the shelves. He couldn't contain his excitement, laughing in disbelief at what he'd managed to accomplish.

Heinkel, who had been lounging nearby with an amused smirk, straightened and came over, peering at the fridge with an impressed expression. "Well, kid, I'll be damned. You actually did it. You made a… what did you call it? A 'fridge?'"

"Fridge, yeah," Subaru replied, still grinning as he looked at his creation. "And this is just the start. Imagine—food that stays fresh longer, no need to worry about spoilage. This could change so much for people here."

Beatrice, standing beside him, crossed her arms, though her eyes held a faint glimmer of pride. "Incredible, I suppose. Though Betty would have appreciated fewer explosions along the way."

Halibel nodded, his usual calm demeanor softening slightly. "It's an impressive feat, Subaru. You've put everything into this… and now you've finally got something to show for it."

Subaru ran a hand over the fridge, still absorbing the moment. This wasn't just a machine; it was proof of what he could accomplish if he poured his heart and mind into something. A testament to his hard work, and a symbol of the future he wanted to create.

"This is just the beginning," Subaru murmured, feeling a renewed surge of confidence. "If I can make this work, then I can make even more. We can really change things here."

The others exchanged a look, each one acknowledging Subaru's growth, his resilience, and the passion that had brought him this far. This invention was only the start of his journey—but it was a powerful start, one that would carry him through the challenges still to come.

The days following the raven youths success with the refrigerator were filled with exploration and newfound confidence. With his invention secured and plans for future projects beginning to take shape, the nasty-eyed boy took some time to travel through Kagaragi's many vibrant city-states. Each one had its own character and charm, from bustling marketplaces and quiet villages to the grand, towering architecture of the more developed cities. Everywhere he went, he absorbed new ideas, inspirations, and insights, each place shaping his vision for the future.

One afternoon, as he strolled through a busy square in one of Kagaragi's central city-states, Subaru recognized a familiar group of armored figures in the crowd. It was the same group of guards who had first greeted him when he arrived in Kagaragi, their steely, watchful eyes now softening with recognition as they caught sight of him.

"Well, well, look who's back," one of the guards said with a grin, crossing his arms. He was a tall, rugged man with a distinctive scar along his cheek, his armor marked with the scratches of countless battles. "Didn't think we'd be seein' you again, foreigner."

Subaru grinned, greeting the guards warmly. "Yeah, I guess I made it through Kagaragi in one piece, thanks to your welcome," he joked, giving a playful salute. "I didn't forget that you guys warned me to watch my back here."

Another guard, a woman with sharp eyes and a quick smile, stepped forward, giving him a light punch on the shoulder. "Seems like you did better than just survive, though. Word around here is that you're working on some pretty wild ideas. Something about a box that keeps things cold?"

Subaru chuckled, scratching the back of his head. "News travels fast here, huh? Yeah, I made something that can keep food fresh for longer. Might be the first of many if things go well."

The first guard shook his head, laughing. "You're a strange one, Natsuki Subaru. Can't say I've ever heard of someone just waltzing in and trying to change the way we live around here. But I'll give ya credit, you're full of surprises."

Subaru smiled, feeling a warmth in his chest as he looked at the guards who'd once been strangers and now felt almost like friends. "Thanks, really. This place taught me a lot. More than I could have imagined."

The female guard nodded, crossing her arms. "Well, wherever you go next, we're rootin' for you. Kagaragi could use more people like you, people with ideas and guts to go through with 'em."

Subaru's grin softened into something more serious, more grateful. "I'll do my best. Who knows? Maybe I'll be back here sooner than you think?"

They shared a laugh, and the guards each shook his hand, their good wishes genuine and warm. As he said his goodbyes, Subaru felt a quiet resolve settle within him. Kagaragi had become more than just a stop along his journey; it was a place where he'd grown, challenged himself, and laid the foundations for a future he believed in.

Finally, it was time to return to Lugnica. [Thump..] His year-long deadline loomed, but he carried with him more than just his invention. He carried lessons, experiences, and connections he hadn't expected to find. [Thump..] With one last look at the sprawling city behind him, Subaru set off, ready to face whatever awaited him back in Lugnica. He knew the challenges were only just beginning, but this time, he felt truly prepared- [Thump..]

As the raven youth made his way through the crowded streets of Kagaragi, preparing to leave for Lugnica, he noticed an unusual gathering up ahead. A large crowd had formed in a small square, people from all walks of life standing shoulder to shoulder, their faces drawn with tense expressions. The atmosphere buzzed with an energy Subaru couldn't quite place, somewhere between anger and excitement.

Curiosity getting the better of him, Subaru edged closer, craning his neck to see what was happening. Standing atop a makeshift platform, addressing the crowd with a voice as powerful as his presence, was a tall, scarred man clad in battered armor—Ryuga the Iron Fist. The man exuded a raw, intimidating energy, his muscular frame and worn armor giving the impression of a warrior hardened by countless battles. Subaru could feel the intensity of his words even before he truly heard them.

Ryuga's voice boomed through the square, his tone sharp and unwavering. "My fellow citizens of Kagaragi," he began, his gaze sweeping over the crowd, each word landing like a hammer blow. "For too long, we've endured the corrupt whims of the council! For too long, we've watched as they prosper while we suffer, while our families are burdened by their greed!"

The crowd murmured in agreement, several people nodding, their faces darkening as Ryuga continued.

"The council has grown fat off our sweat, our toil, and they sit in their gilded halls, looking down on us like we're nothing but pawns in their little games." Ryuga's fists clenched, his voice laced with barely contained fury. "They use us to keep their power intact, draining our resources, driving up the cost of living, and leaving us to fend for ourselves while they scheme and profit!"

Subaru felt a knot tighten in his stomach. Ryuga's words struck a chord with the people, fueling a fire that was already smoldering in their hearts. Though Subaru was no stranger to government corruption, hearing the raw resentment in Ryuga's voice and seeing the anger reflected in the crowd's faces gave him a new perspective on Kagaragi's struggles.

"And what do they offer us in return?" Ryuga continued, his voice rising. "False promises and empty words! They tell us to trust in their rule, to believe in their 'wisdom,' but look around you! Are these the actions of leaders who care for their people?"

Several people in the crowd shouted in agreement, fists raised in the air. The fervor was contagious, and even Subaru found himself caught in the intensity of the moment.

Ryuga paused, his piercing gaze sweeping over the crowd once more, as if assessing each person, ensuring his message had landed. "I say we've had enough. We will no longer stand by while they use us to maintain their power. The council must answer for their actions! They must pay for the harm they've done to us and our families!"

The crowd erupted in shouts, their voices rising in a unified roar of anger and agreement. Ryuga's words had struck deep, giving voice to the frustrations many of them had likely felt for years but had never dared to speak aloud.

Subaru, standing near the back, felt a chill run down his spine. He recognized the power in Ryuga's words—the way they resonated with people who felt betrayed, abandoned, and helpless. But there was a dangerous edge to it as well, one that made Subaru wary. He had seen what desperation could drive people to do, and Ryuga's rhetoric, though passionate, seemed to hint at something darker.

As the crowd continued to cheer, Subaru caught Ryuga's gaze for a brief moment. There was something calculating in his eyes, a glint that seemed to revel in the power he held over these people, even as he spoke for their "freedom." Subaru looked away, feeling the weight of the decision before him.

This was no ordinary speech—this was the spark that could ignite a movement, one that might challenge the very fabric of Kagaragi's society.

Stepping back from the crowd, Subaru took a deep breath.

Ryuga the Iron Fist stood atop his makeshift platform like a living statue of war, a towering figure who commanded attention with every ounce of his being. His appearance was striking—almost otherworldly. His skin was deeply tanned, weathered by years of exposure to harsh elements, giving him an almost earthen quality, like he'd been carved from the rocks of Kagaragi's rugged terrain itself. His long, white hair cascaded down to his shoulders, wild and unbound, a stark contrast to his dark skin. The strands gleamed in the afternoon light, flowing with each subtle movement, as if his very presence stirred the air around him.

A thick scar ran diagonally from his temple down to his cheekbone, a brutal reminder of his life on the front lines. His face was angular and sharp, marked by shadows that seemed to deepen his already intense gaze. His eyes were dark and piercing, carrying an intensity that felt almost suffocating, like he could see straight into the hearts of those who stood before him. Ryuga wore simple but battered armor, his chestplate dented and scarred, bearing the marks of countless battles. His muscular arms were bare, revealing intricate tattoos winding from his wrists to his shoulders—symbols of strength and rebellion from an era most had forgotten.

As his speech reached a fevered pitch, Ryuga's voice shifted from impassioned to furious. His fists clenched tightly, and he raised one arm, pointing it toward the council's distant halls with the authority of a general about to march his army into battle.

"They have turned their backs on you!" he shouted, his voice carrying through the square. "These so-called leaders do not care for your lives! They live in luxury, while you scrape by, barely able to feed your families! Today, we say no more! Today, we show them that Kagaragi belongs to the people, not the council!"

The crowd erupted into wild cheers, their voices a cacophony of anger and approval. Ryuga's words whipped them into a frenzy, stoking the simmering resentment that had been buried beneath years of hardship and neglect.

"Take back what is ours!" Ryuga bellowed, his eyes alight with something primal, a violent spark that blazed brighter with each cheer. "Drive out the corruption! Tear down those who think they can rule over you without fear!"

In the crowd, Subaru felt a surge of dread. He could feel the tension thickening, transforming from mere frustration to something far darker. This wasn't just a speech—it was a call to action, a call to violence.

At that moment, Subaru spotted familiar faces pushing their way through the throng: the guards who had greeted him upon his first arrival in Kagaragi. They wore expressions of alarm, trying to contain the situation before it spiraled further. The tall, scarred guard who'd joked with Subaru before raised his voice, trying to reason with the crowd.

"Everyone, listen!" he called, holding up his hands. "This isn't the way! We need to work together, not turn on each other!"

But the crowd's anger was already spilling over, their eyes fixed on him and his fellow guards as if they were the enemy. The female guard who had been kind to Subaru stepped forward, her face determined yet visibly tense.

"Stop this now!" she urged, her voice sharp and commanding. "Violence will only lead to more suffering!"

Ryuga watched them with a smirk, as if they were nothing more than minor inconveniences standing in the way of his cause. Slowly, he raised one hand, his fingers curling slightly as he tapped into his mana. The ground beneath him seemed to shift subtly, responding to his will.

"Those who defend the council are as guilty as the council itself!" he snarled, his voice dripping with contempt. "Anyone who stands against us—who tries to silence us—is an enemy of Kagaragi! They deserve no mercy!"

With a swift movement, Ryuga slammed his fist into the air. The ground beneath the guards trembled, cracks snaking through the cobblestone with a rumbling sound. Then, as if the earth itself had turned against them, sharp stone spikes erupted from the ground, catching the guards off-guard.

The male guard stumbled, barely managing to dodge as a jagged stone spear shot up near his side, grazing his armor. The female guard wasn't as lucky; a shard of earth struck her leg, sending her to the ground with a cry of pain. The other guards rushed to help her, but the crowd, riled and emboldened by Ryuga's call to action, surged forward, their anger redirected at the very people who had once protected them.

Chaos erupted as the crowd turned on the guards, some wielding stones, sticks, and anything else they could find. The guards fought to hold their ground, but the sheer numbers were overwhelming. Ryuga watched from his platform, a look of satisfaction creeping over his face as the guards were forced back by the enraged mob.

The male guard, blood streaming from a cut on his forehead, raised his weapon defensively, shouting, "Stop! We're here to protect you!"

But his words fell on deaf ears. Ryuga raised his hand once more, channeling his magic. With another gesture, a series of rock pillars burst from the ground, knocking the guards backward and sending them sprawling. One of the guards cried out as his leg was pinned under a heavy slab of earth, his weapon clattering to the ground.

Subaru's stomach twisted as he watched, frozen in shock. The once-friendly guards were now on the ground, bloodied and helpless as the mob swarmed them, driven by a fury that Ryuga had so skillfully incited. The air was thick with the scent of dust and sweat, the sounds of shouts, jeers, and cries echoing through the square.

Ryuga's voice boomed once more, the thrill of power evident in his tone. "Let this be a message to the council! Kagaragi will no longer bow to their rule!"

Subaru felt a deep unease settle over him as he realized the true nature of Ryuga's intentions. This was no righteous rebellion—this was bloodlust disguised as justice. And as he watched the scene unfold, Subaru knew that the consequences of Ryuga's actions would ripple far beyond this square, threatening to engulf Kagaragi itself in a wave of violence and chaos.

As the violence escalated, Subaru felt a surge of anger and determination rising within him. He couldn't stand by any longer and watch innocent people get hurt. Summoning every ounce of courage, he stepped forward, clenching his fists and shouting over the din of the crowd.

"That's enough!" he bellowed, his voice cutting through the chaos.

Ryuga, who had been reveling in the sight of the bloodied guards and the crowd's rage, paused mid-sentence, his triumphant expression hardening. He let out a slow, deep breath, closing his eyes as if collecting himself. The crowd fell silent, turning to see who had dared to interrupt.

After a moment, Ryuga opened his eyes, their dark depths cold and calculating as he looked over his shoulder toward Subaru. He scanned him, his gaze moving from Subaru's black hair to his foreign clothes, down to his determined stance. A subtle glimmer of curiosity sparked in his eyes as he took in the sight of this outsider who had the audacity to challenge him in the middle of his speech.

With a slight, almost disdainful tilt of his head, Ryuga took in Subaru's features. "Ah," he murmured, his voice low and thoughtful, "black hair. Not something you see often in these parts."

A faint, knowing smirk spread across his lips, the look of a man who had deduced something significant. "You're not from Kagaragi, are you?" Ryuga continued, his voice carrying a dangerous edge as he took a step closer to Subaru. "That hair, that face… you must be from the south. Vollachia, I'd wager. Funny, isn't it, an outsider trying to tell the people of Kagaragi what's right and wrong?"

Subaru felt a cold jolt at Ryuga's observation but stood his ground, meeting the man's gaze with unwavering determination. "It doesn't matter where I'm from. I don't have to be Kagaragan to see that hurting people isn't going to help your cause."

Ryuga's smirk widened, a hint of mockery in his eyes as he looked Subaru up and down. "A bold statement from someone who doesn't know the first thing about our struggles. You come here, an outsider, and think you can understand the pain we've endured? The sacrifices we've been forced to make?"

The crowd watched the exchange with rapt attention, their anger momentarily suspended as they waited to see how this confrontation would unfold.

Subaru took a deep breath, his mind racing as he searched for the right words. "Maybe I don't know everything," he admitted, his voice strong despite the uncertainty bubbling within him. "But I know enough to see that turning on each other won't change anything. This violence, this anger, it'll only drag you down. Don't let him," the midnight youth gestured to Ryuga, "use your pain to create more suffering."

Ryuga's expression darkened, the smirk slipping into a scowl. He took another step closer, towering over Subaru with a look of contempt. "Use their pain?" he repeated, his voice dripping with disdain. "You think I'm using them?" He looked back at the crowd, gesturing with an open hand. "I'm giving them the power to fight back! To reclaim their lives from the corrupt council that has crushed them for years!"

He turned his gaze back to Subaru, his eyes narrowing. "But you wouldn't understand, would you? You, an outsider, a foreigner who thinks he can waltz in and tell us how to fight our battles."

The crowd murmured in agreement, their anger simmering as Ryuga's words rekindled their resentment. Subaru could feel the weight of their hostility directed at him, but he stood his ground, unwilling to back down.

"You're wrong," Subaru said, his voice steady. "I may be an outsider, but I care about what happens to this place and these people. And I'm not going to stand by and watch while you turn them into pawns in your own twisted game."

Ryuga's eyes flashed with fury, and he clenched his fists, the ground beneath him trembling slightly as he drew on his earth magic. For a tense moment, it seemed as if he might attack Subaru right then and there.

But instead, he let out a sharp, mocking laugh. "You're brave, I'll give you that. Brave… or stupid." He turned back to the crowd, raising his voice. "See here, people! This foreigner thinks he knows better than you! He thinks he understands your pain—your anger! Well, I say let him see firsthand what we're capable of!"

The crowd began to murmur, their anger directed toward Subaru now. Ryuga's words had fanned the flames once more, and Subaru could feel the tension building, the weight of dozens of hostile eyes on him.

But he refused to back down. He clenched his fists, standing firm even as the hostility in the air thickened. He had come too far, endured too much, to let fear control him now.

"Go ahead," Subaru said, his voice carrying over the noise of the crowd. "If you think hurting one more person will make things right, then do it. But it won't change anything."

Ryuga's smile faded, replaced by a look of irritation. For the first time, a hint of doubt flickered across his face as he stared at Subaru, realizing that this outsider was not going to bend or break under his threats.

The crowd hesitated, their anger wavering as they watched the two men locked in a silent battle of wills.

"Do you?" Subaru asked, his voice low but clear, laced with a challenging edge. "Do you even know who I am?"

The words hung in the air, and Subaru let his smile widen, almost daring Ryuga to respond. He could see the flicker of irritation in the man's eyes, the hint of uncertainty that crept into his hardened expression.

"No," Subaru continued, his tone mocking as he shook his head slowly, savoring the moment. "No, you don't."

The crowd murmured, their interest rekindled as they watched this audacious foreigner stand up to a man like Ryuga with such brazen confidence. Ryuga's eyes narrowed, and his fists clenched, visibly irritated by Subaru's words.

Subaru took a step forward, tilting his head slightly as he held Ryuga's gaze. "You think you've got all the answers, that you're some kind of hero for these people. But you don't know the first thing about me, or what I've been through, or what I'm willing to do."

He let the silence that followed stretch, watching as Ryuga's initial anger gave way to a steely, cold fury.

Subaru's gaze was fierce, his cocky smile fading into a look of resolute defiance as he faced Ryuga and the captivated crowd. He raised his voice, each word carrying the weight of his accomplishments and the battles he had endured.

"You're standing here, stirring up anger, talking big about taking down the council,"

Subaru began, his tone steady and unyielding. "But do you even know who I am? I'm not just some foreigner walking into Kagaragi—I'm the one who killed the White Whale."

The crowd fell silent, a ripple of shock passing through them as they took in his words. Ryuga's expression wavered, a flicker of surprise breaking through his hardened gaze, but Subaru wasn't finished.

"I'm the one who took down the Witch Cult's Sin Archbishop of Sloth," Subaru continued, his voice unwavering. "I fought against monsters you can't even imagine, creatures that would tear apart this city and everyone in it without a second thought. You think you're powerful, that your anger makes you strong? You don't know the first thing about strength."

Subaru took a step closer, his eyes locked onto Ryuga's, daring him to respond. "I've stood against the worst this world has to offer. I'm on par with the Wanderer himself—someone you may have heard of, a force who commands respect wherever he goes. If I'm telling you to stand down, then maybe you should listen."

For a brief moment, the crowd held its breath, the tension palpable as Subaru's words hung in the air. Even Ryuga seemed taken aback, his eyes narrowing as he studied Subaru with a newfound intensity, as if trying to measure the truth of his claims.

But then, slowly, Ryuga's surprise faded, replaced by a twisted smile of disdain. He let out a low, mocking laugh, shaking his head as if he couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"So, you think a few battles make you some kind of legend?" Ryuga sneered, his voice dripping with contempt. "You may have fought monsters and fanatics, but you're still just a cocky outsider who doesn't understand Kagaragi or its people."

The crowd murmured, their loyalties clearly divided, some swayed by Subaru's words, others still standing firmly with Ryuga.

Ryuga's voice grew louder, filled with derision. "And on par with the Wanderer? Don't make me laugh. That's just the fantasy of a foreigner who thinks he can intimidate his way through my city. Kagaragi doesn't bow to anyone, especially not arrogant strangers who think they can tell us how to live!"

Subaru felt his stomach twist as Ryuga dismissed his words, his defiance as strong as ever. The crowd seemed to rally behind Ryuga's defiance, their anger reigniting, spurred on by his refusal to back down.

Subaru clenched his fists, his mind racing as he considered his next move. This wasn't just a simple crowd or a political rally anymore—this was a boiling pot on the edge of eruption, and Ryuga's influence over these people was pushing them dangerously close to the brink.

Just as Ryuga's fury reached its peak, his fists clenching, the ground beneath him beginning to tremble with the first stirrings of his earth magic, a sudden stillness fell over the square. It was as if the air itself had shifted, growing heavier, colder. Out of the shadows of an alley, a figure emerged, her steps silent yet commanding enough to draw every eye in the crowd.

The woman was cloaked in dark, flowing robes that seemed to absorb the light, blending seamlessly with the shadows that clung to her form. Her face was partially obscured beneath a hood, but a glimpse of her pale, almost luminous skin hinted at a beauty that was sharp and haunting. Long, dark hair spilled from beneath the hood, framing her face like a veil. The only thing fully visible were her eyes. piercing, a deep violet that seemed to hold secrets and hidden power. Her gaze held a mix of amusement and calm authority, as though she were above the chaos that had just unfolded.

She moved with an effortless grace, weaving through the crowd, who instinctively parted for her, their anger subdued by her mere presence. Her silence alone commanded respect, a quiet yet undeniable power emanating from her as she approached Ryuga, her gaze fixed firmly on him.

Ryuga faltered, his eyes narrowing as he regarded her with suspicion. "Who are you to interfere?" he demanded, his tone laced with frustration, though even he seemed unwilling to make any sudden moves.

The woman merely tilted her head, a faint smile playing at her lips as she looked past Ryuga and directly at Subaru. "Now, now," she said, her voice smooth and soft, like silk slipping through one's fingers. "There's no need for all this hostility. I believe the dashingly beautiful boy here. " "she cast a lingering, amused glance at Subaru. "has done nothing to warrant such aggression, wouldn't you agree?"

Her words dripped with a mixture of mischief and restraint, as though she found the entire situation mildly entertaining. But her tone held an edge, a warning meant for Ryuga alone, and it was clear to everyone that she expected her words to be heeded.

Ryuga's jaw clenched, his initial defiance melting into a grudging respect mixed with caution. "This… is not your fight," he growled, though his aggression wavered, his gaze flickering between her and Subaru, as if calculating his next move.

The woman merely raised a gloved hand, a subtle gesture, yet powerful enough to still the energy of the crowd around her. "Perhaps not," she replied, her tone still maddeningly calm. "But it is no longer yours, either. Kagaragi's interests lie elsewhere, and stirring up trouble with foreigners won't serve you or your cause."

Her words were layered, carrying an undercurrent that only someone like Ryuga could understand, and a flicker of uncertainty passed over his face. He looked around at the crowd, now quiet, watching him intently, waiting for his next move. The woman's influence, her authority, hung over him like a shadow.

Ryuga's fists relaxed, though the tension in his stance did not fully fade. "This isn't over," he muttered, casting one last glare at Subaru, as though silently vowing they would cross paths again.

Satisfied, the woman offered him a serene smile, her gaze as chilling as it was captivating. "Good boy," she murmured, dismissing him with a flick of her fingers. Then, as Ryuga begrudgingly stepped back, she shifted her attention to Subaru, her gaze appraising and a touch amused.

"And you…" she said, her voice dropping to a gentle murmur only he could hear. "You really do have a way of attracting attention, don't you?"

Subaru swallowed, still processing the surreal encounter, but before he could respond, the woman had already slipped away, melding into the shadows from which she'd come, as if she had never been there at all.

The crowd, now disoriented and subdued, began to disperse, leaving Subaru alone in the square, the tension finally easing as he watched Ryuga fade into the distance, his anger barely contained. But even as the threat receded, Subaru couldn't shake the sense of mystery that lingered—the unsettling beauty of the woman who had come to his aid and the eerie calm with which she'd defused the chaos.

The woman turned her attention fully to Subaru, her violet eyes narrowing with an unreadable, almost curious glint. Her expression softened into something between a smirk and a frown, her head tilted as though she were examining a peculiar artifact. Her gaze lingered on him, sharp and penetrating, like she could see straight through him, past his skin, down to something hidden deep within.

"So…" she began, her voice as silken as it was unsettling, "just what might an Archbishop of the Witch's Cult be doing in a country like Kagaragi?"

Subaru felt his breath catch, his heart pounding as her words struck him like a slap. The accusation, casual yet unmistakable, sent a chill through him. "W-What?" he stammered, his face contorting with a mixture of shock and denial. "I'm not with the Witch's Cult! I've fought against them—I'd never join them!"

The woman watched him with an amused detachment, her expression neither surprised nor convinced. She took a long, slow breath, letting the silence hang in the air as she considered his answer, her gaze never wavering from him.

Then, after a moment, she gave a faint smile and shrugged, dismissing the notion with an air of mock indifference. "Ah, perhaps not," she murmured, almost as though speaking to herself. "After all, who am I to say?"

She stepped closer, her eyes tracing over him with a disturbing curiosity, her lips curling into a ghost of a smile. Her voice dropped to a low murmur, barely above a whisper. "But even so… I see them wriggling inside you." Her eyes glinted, almost predatory, as if savoring his discomfort. "I can't quite decipher whether they hate you… or love you?"

Subaru's mouth went dry, his mind racing as he tried to process her words. The darkness that had been lurking within him, the twisted connection he bore to the Witch's Cult—it felt exposed under her gaze, laid bare and writhing like an open wound. He could feel her seeing it, recognizing it in a way few others had.

But before he could respond, the woman drew back, the amusement returning to her eyes. "Ah, but don't worry, beautiful boy," she said, her tone shifting back to its previous playfulness, as though she hadn't just probed the darkest depths of his soul. "What you are, what you carry—that's a matter for you to ponder… and perhaps for others to fear."

With that, she gave him one last enigmatic smile, turning gracefully as she vanished into the shadows, leaving Subaru standing alone in the square, the unsettling weight of her words lingering in the air.

As the quiet of the deserted square settled around him, Subaru felt a chill run through his spine. The encounter left him with more questions than answers, and the eerie truth of her words clung to him like a shadow he couldn't shake.

Disoriented and shaken, Subaru stumbled through the thinning crowd, his mind a storm of confusion and dread. Her words—"I see them wriggling inside you"—echoed in his head, leaving him with a sickening sense of exposure, as if the woman had peeled back his very soul. He pushed the thoughts aside, forcing himself to focus on the task at hand. Ryuga's outburst had left a few guards injured, and Subaru was determined to do what he could to help.

As he reached the injured guards, he noticed that several concerned citizens had already rushed forward, kneeling beside the fallen officers to offer aid. One guard, the tall, scarred man who had greeted Subaru when he first arrived in Kagaragi, was grimacing as he tried to stand, clutching his injured leg. Subaru moved quickly to his side, offering a steadying arm.

"Hey, easy there," Subaru murmured, supporting the guard's weight. "Looks like you took quite a hit. You okay?"

The guard looked at him, a flicker of surprise crossing his pain-stricken face. "Natsuki… didn't think you'd still be here. But thanks." He managed a weak smile, though his eyes reflected the pain and confusion left by Ryuga's betrayal.

Subaru helped the guard sit down, checking the extent of his injuries as best he could. Another citizen handed Subaru a cloth, which he used to help staunch a cut on the guard's forehead. The reality of what had just happened sank in—Kagaragi was on the brink of something dark, and Subaru could feel its shadow stretching toward him.

After ensuring that the guards were stable and receiving enough assistance, Subaru slowly made his way back to the inn, his mind clouded by conflicting thoughts. Each step felt heavier, burdened by the lingering memory of that strange woman's words and the way she'd looked into him, almost as if she'd seen straight through to the part of him he feared most.

Once inside the inn, Subaru sank into a chair at an empty table, his head buzzing. The bustling noise around him faded, dimming as he stared at the worn surface of the table, tracing the patterns in the wood with a distracted hand. He felt like he was slipping, reality twisting and bending, as if his mind couldn't fully process the events of the day. The room seemed to shift, its colors blurring, the sounds muffling, until it felt like he was slipping through the fabric of reality itself.

The inn faded away, and when he blinked, he was no longer seated in a cozy tavern but in a vast, regal courtyard. The air here was still, heavy with an unnatural calm, and the sky above was a strange shade of dusky purple, as though caught between night and dawn. The yard was meticulously landscaped, surrounded by elegant archways and statues that spoke of power and tradition. Every detail was ornate, steeped in the wealth and prestige that only royalty commanded.

Subaru's eyes widened as he took in the scene. He recognized this place. It was Vollachian in style, something he'd seen in passing descriptions, though he'd never stepped foot in the empire. And standing at the center of the courtyard, draped in rich, royal attire, as Stride Vollachia's piercing gaze held Subaru in place, grounding him within this surreal moment. Stride took a step forward, his posture regal yet imposing, his dark eyes reflecting a depth of knowledge and command that had always unsettled Subaru, even from the earliest days of their twisted alliance.

"Dost thou forget, Subaru?" Stride's voice was steady, low, resonant with a timeless authority. "Our contract binds thee still. The power thou dost wield, the very strength thou dost now rely upon, is but a gift from mine hand. Thy Witch Factor of Pride—'tis not simply thine, but ours. It doth tie thee to my purpose, even should thou seek to flee from it."

Subaru swallowed, feeling the familiar weight of Stride's presence settle over him, an ever-present reminder of the pact he had entered in his darkest hour. The Witch Factor of Pride had given him strength, a power that saved him on countless occasions. But he'd always been aware of the cost, the shadow of Stride lurking in the depths of his mind, binding them with an oath he couldn't ignore.

"Stride," Subaru said, his voice barely a whisper, tension etched in his features. "I know our contract stands. I haven't forgotten. But sometimes… it feels like this path you've set me on is impossible. Every step, every challenge, it's like I'm just one breath away from falling."

Stride regarded him, a knowing smile touching his lips. "Ah, dear Subaru," he murmured, his voice smooth yet unyielding. "Thou art more than thou dost realize. The trials set before thee, harsh though they may seem, serve but to forge thee into thine true self. Thou art to become the blade that shall carve destiny, tempered by hardship and undaunted by fear."

He took another step closer, his gaze sharp and intense. "I do remind thee of our bond not to torment thee, but to inspire thee. For as long as our contract doth endure, I stand as both thy guide and thy judge. Should thou falter, I shall know it. Thou art to uphold thy strength and thy resolve, as is demanded of one who wields the Witch Factor of Pride."

Subaru looked up at Stride, struggling to keep his expression steady as the man's words washed over him. Stride had been there from the beginning, giving him this power, shaping him with both support and challenge, always watching, always testing.

"You really think I can just… rise to all of this?" Subaru asked, his voice quiet, but threaded with a sliver of hope, of desperation. "That I won't fall, even if everything around me tells me to?"

Stride's smile turned to a smirk, his eyes glinting with both challenge and encouragement. "Fall? Nay, Subaru. Thou art one who doth climb from the abyss, who riseth when others falter. Thou hast faced despair and yet art here before me, questioning thy path, seeking answers, even when thou art nearly crushed beneath the weight of it. Is that not proof of thine unyielding spirit?"

Stride extended a gloved hand, his gaze steady and unrelenting. "Hold fast to thy will, Natsuki Subaru. Falter not, for thine resolve doth anchor thee to our bond, to the power I bestowed. Should thou stray from this purpose, should thou waver, that which lies within thee may consume thee. But if thou dost embrace it, wield it with wisdom and honor, there is naught that thou cannot face."

Subaru felt the familiar pulse of the Witch Factor within him, a sensation both chilling and electrifying, reminding him of the strength that lay dormant, ready to be unleashed. It was a power he had feared, a gift that felt more like a curse, yet here, now, in Stride's presence, he felt something shift within him—a flicker of confidence, the steadying of his resolve.

Stride's hand remained extended, a symbolic reminder of their contract, the bond that linked them. "Thou art the bearer of Pride, Subaru," Stride intoned. "Remember that thou art capable of more than thou canst yet imagine. But beware the path, for Pride, unrestrained, can twist the soul. Remain steadfast, and thou shalt transcend even thy darkest fears."

Subaru nodded slowly, the weight of Stride's words settling deep within him, solidifying the resolve that had wavered only moments before. "I… I understand, Stride. I won't let this power go to waste. I won't let it… consume me."

Stride's smile softened, a rare flicker of approval in his otherwise imperious gaze. "Then go forth, Natsuki Subaru. And shouldst thou find thyself at the edge of despair once more, remember that thy Pride is both thy shield and thy sword. Do not betray it. Do not betray thyself."

As Subaru felt the courtyard around him fading, he steadied himself, realizing he still had unanswered questions weighing on his mind. Before Stride could fully vanish, he took a step forward, his voice firm despite the awe that Stride's presence always instilled in him.

"Wait—Stride," Subaru said, the urgency in his tone enough to stall the fading of the courtyard. "Before I go… I need to know something."

Stride's form stilled, his sharp gaze focusing on Subaru once more. "Ask, then," he replied, his voice cool yet curious.

"The woman I encountered, back in Kagaragi… she had this aura, this unsettling presence," Subaru began, recalling the sensation of her piercing violet eyes that seemed to cut through his very soul. "She seemed to know things about me, things that no one else should. Who was she?"

Stride tilted his head, a faint glimmer of thoughtfulness in his eyes as he considered Subaru's words. "A woman with such presence, thou sayest? Purple hair, eyes like unto the deepest secrets?"

Subaru nodded, the memory of the encounter vivid in his mind. "Yeah. She hinted at things… dark things, things inside me that even I barely understand."

Stride let out a soft hum, a trace of intrigue crossing his face. "Curious, indeed. For even one as great and venerable as I knows little of such a figure."

Subaru blinked, taken aback. "You… don't know?"

Stride's gaze darkened momentarily, his lips pursing as he considered his next words. "I may have suspicions, fleeting as the passing wind," he said, his tone dismissive yet carrying a weight that Subaru didn't miss. "There exists one whose influence could instill such dread and awe—a figure of mystery and insidious grace… Pandora, as she is called by those few who know of her."

Subaru's blood ran cold at the name, and though Stride's expression was calm, there was a glint of something almost dangerous in his eyes. "Pandora?" Subaru repeated, the name barely more than a whisper on his lips.

Stride waved a gloved hand as if brushing the thought aside. "Though I name her, do not let it disturb thy heart, Subaru. Such musings are mere conjecture, wisps of thought, and unworthy of thy time. This woman, whoever she may be, likely walks her own path, unconnected to thine."

Subaru frowned, feeling an unsettling tension in Stride's words. "So… you don't think she's connected to the Witch's Cult, or to me?"

Stride's eyes narrowed slightly, a flicker of warning flashing through them. "Her motives and allegiances are as fickle as the mist. Should she indeed be that which I suspect, then it would be best thou dost leave her mysteries untouched, lest they consume thee in kind. Beware, Subaru, of seeking what thou cannot yet comprehend."

Subaru's stomach tightened with unease, but he forced himself to nod, knowing he wouldn't get more from Stride on the matter. The mention of Pandora was enough to stir something deep within him, but Stride's reluctance to address it further left him more confused than ever.

Stride softened his gaze, offering a slight, almost cryptic smile. "Keep thine eyes ahead, Natsuki Subaru. Let not specters distract thee from thy purpose. Thou hast greater foes to face and trials to endure."

Subaru took a steadying breath, knowing that Stride had spoken with purpose and that lingering on this unknown woman's identity would only derail him. "I understand… I think."

Stride's smile widened, approving yet distant, and his form resumed its gradual fading into mist. "Good. Then go forth, bearer of Pride, and honor thy contract."

With that, Stride began to fade, his form dissolving like mist under the morning sun. The courtyard around Subaru blurred, shifting, as reality pulled him back, Stride's final words lingering in his mind like an indelible mark.

As Subaru's vision cleared, he found himself once again in the inn, seated at the wooden table, the quiet sounds of the common room returning. But this time, he felt different. The weight of the contract, the Witch Factor of Pride, was a burden, yes, but it was also a promise, a reminder of the strength he held within.

He wouldn't falter. Not now, and not ever.