mine venerable

A few days later, the Emilia camp arrived in Pristella, their entry marked by the grandeur of the Watergate City unfurling before them. The group—Otto, Garfiel, Emilia, and Rem, navigated the streets with a mixture of excitement and apprehension.

As they made their way to the hotel designated by Anastasia for their stay, each of them couldn't help but marvel at the unique architecture and the vibrant life flowing through Pristella's canals and waterways. The beauty of the city was undeniable, with bridges arching gracefully over water, and streets bustling with locals and visitors alike.

Upon reaching the entrance of the hotel, they were greeted by the sight of other parties also gathering for the royal selection conference. Crusch's camp was already there, along with representatives from Felt's camp. The hotel lobby buzzed with the energy of reunions and tense pre-conference discussions.

As they entered, Rem's gaze caught that of Crusch, and a soft smile spread across her face. Despite the complexities of their past interactions and the challenges each had faced, there was a mutual respect that had grown from shared adversities.

"Crusch-sama," Rem greeted respectfully, approaching her with a slight bow. Crusch, who had been discussing something with Ferris, turned and offered Rem a warm smile, the severity of her leadership momentarily softened.

"Rem, it's good to see you well," Crusch replied, her voice carrying a genuine tone of regard. "I've heard much about your recovery and efforts. It's a relief to see you in good health."

Rem nodded, her expression gentle yet still carrying the shadows of the ordeals she had been through. "Thank you, Crusch-sama. It has been a challenging journey, but I am here, and I am striving to be stronger."

Ferris, ever the protective aide, chimed in with a cheery grin. "And she's been doing splendidly! But let's not forget about you, Crusch-sama. Managing the recovery and the affairs of state—it's no small feat!"

The exchange was brief but filled with the kind of understanding that only those who had faced great trials could share. As other members of their respective camps joined the conversation, the interaction shifted towards lighter topics, setting a tone of camaraderie amidst the underlying tensions of the upcoming conference.

Meanwhile, Otto and Garfiel hung back slightly, scanning the crowd, both clearly on the lookout for any sign of Subaru. Emilia, standing beside them, shared their concern but remained composed, her gaze occasionally drifting towards the entrance as if willing Subaru to appear.

As they mingled and waited, the sense of anticipation grew, not just for the conference, but for the reunions and confrontations that were surely on the horizon in Pristella's unfolding drama.

As the Emilia camp settled in, they were met with familiar faces. Reinhard and Felt approached, exchanging nods of recognition that carried the weight of their last gathering—a charged memory of Subaru's trial before the Sage Council. Reinhard, ever poised, offered a slight smile as he acknowledged the group.

"Feels like it's been a lifetime since the trial," Reinhard said, his tone measured but warm. "I'm glad to see everyone in good spirits."

Felt folded her arms, nodding with a hint of her usual bluntness. "Yeah, a bit nicer to see ya'll out here instead of stuck in that stuffy courtroom."

Before anyone could respond, a blur of motion came from around the corner as Mimi suddenly dashed into view. With a gleeful shout, she flung herself onto Garfiel, practically climbing onto his shoulders as she hugged him from behind. "Garf! Ya missed me, didn't ya?"

Garfiel stumbled a bit under her sudden weight, his face quickly turning a shade of red that almost matched his scars. "Wha—Missed ya? I—" He stammered, looking around as he struggled to regain his composure.

Rem and Otto, standing nearby, exchanged quick glances before seizing the opportunity to tease. "Looks like someone's got a little crush," Otto said, grinning.

Rem chimed in, a playful glint in her eyes. "Yes, it seems Garfiel missed a certain someone more than he'd admit."

Garfiel's face grew even redder as he desperately tried to shake off the accusation, though his reaction only made it harder for him to deny. "Oi, it ain't like that!" he protested, his voice carrying a note of embarrassment. "I just… didn't expect ta see her, that's all!"

The others couldn't help but watch with amused expressions as Garfiel struggled to compose himself, visibly flustered by the playful teasing. Reinhard's usually serious expression softened, and even Felt cracked a smirk as she watched the scene unfold with arms crossed, clearly entertained.

It was into this scene of relaxed banter that Anastasia Hoshin entered, a casual air about her as she strolled forward, catching everyone's attention with a familiar smile. "Ahhh, quite the lively welcome, I'd say," she observed, her Kagaragi accent warm and unmistakable. "I'm mighty glad ta see yer all enjoyin' the Watergate City already. Not often I get all ya fine folks gathered here."

The crowd straightened a little, greeting Anastasia with slight nods, though the air was much more casual than formal. There was an undeniable air of diplomacy, but in Pristella's vibrant setting, even the royal selection candidates found themselves loosening up just a bit.

"Thanks fer havin' us here, Anastasia," Otto replied with a polite nod, though his eyes still glinted with amusement from the prior teasing. "It's an impressive city, really—lively as it is, even before things officially begin."

Anastasia gave Otto an easy smile. "Well, Pristella's got its charm, fer sure. And seein' ya all here just brings it ta life a bit more. But don't go gettin' too cozy now," she added with a playful wink. "Got plenty o' business ahead of us, don't we?"

The representatives from each camp shared knowing looks, an unspoken acknowledgment of the real reason for their gathering. But for now, the atmosphere was light, the laughter and camaraderie easing them into what would surely be a complex and loaded series of events.

As the evening settled in Pristella, the various camps gathered for a communal dinner arranged by Anastasia to foster camaraderie before the intense negotiations and alliances of the Royal Selection process would take center stage. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, with the hall filled with the rich aromas of the local cuisine, laughter echoing through the space as everyone settled into their seats.

However, a few notable figures were conspicuously absent from the gathering. Roswaal had not appeared, and his empty chair sparked quiet speculation among some of the attendees. Meanwhile, at Crusch's table, Ferris's usually cheerful demeanor was tinged with concern. He leaned close to Crusch, his voice low.

"Crusch-sama, Wilhelm-san has been away for quite a while. It's not like him to miss a gathering, especially one with food involved," Ferris remarked, his ears twitching slightly as he scanned the room yet again.

Crusch nodded thoughtfully, her eyes scanning the crowd. "He mentioned he had to clarify a few matters concerning the southwest of the kingdom. Perhaps it's taken longer than expected."

The conversation was interrupted as the doors to the dining hall opened again. All eyes turned as Julius walked in, his posture relaxed but authoritative. Beside him was Wilhelm, the veteran warrior, whose presence brought an immediate sense of ease to Ferris and Crusch.

Julius and Wilhelm made their way to their table, their arrival stirring a new wave of conversation across the room. Wilhelm offered a brief, reassuring nod to Crusch and Ferris as he took his seat, his old warrior's face marked with a trace of fatigue but underlined by a firm resolve.

"Apologies for our tardiness," Julius began, addressing both their table and those nearby who had paused to acknowledge their arrival. "We were discussing some urgent issues affecting the southwest borders—matters that needed Wilhelm's experienced insight."

Wilhelm added, "The situation is stable for now, but it required attention. It's good to join you all now, though." His voice carried the weight of his years of service, reassuring yet reminding everyone of the ongoing responsibilities they all shared outside the walls of this gathering.

As dinner proceeded, the atmosphere lightened once more. Dishes were passed around, and glasses clinked in casual toasts. The conversation flowed from serious political discussions to lighter, more personal exchanges, bridging gaps between the different factions.

Ferris finally relaxed, visibly relieved to see Wilhelm safe and sound. He shared a look with Crusch, who also seemed reassured by Wilhelm's presence and Julius's updates. The dinner not only served as a meal but as a subtle battleground of wits and wills, where every gesture and word could signify deeper alliances or emerging strategies.

In this environment, every reunion, every shared laugh or concerned whisper, contributed to the intricate dance of diplomacy that would shape the future of their kingdom.

As the dinner progressed, the conversation ebbed and flowed with a mix of seriousness and light-hearted banter. Wilhelm, having settled into his seat, observed the room with a seasoned eye. His gaze landed on Garfiel, who was currently fending off an enthusiastic Mimi trying to feed him every piece of Kagaragan cuisine she could find on the table. Garfiel's attempts to refuse were half-hearted at best, betraying his underlying amusement.

Wilhelm, finding a moment to interject, addressed Garfiel with a raised eyebrow and a hint of curiosity in his voice. "I hear you've become the Emilia camp's knight, is that true?" His tone was casual but carried a clear respect for the role.

Garfiel, caught off guard by the sudden attention, swallowed his food and responded with a mixture of pride and slight embarrassment. "Ah, yeah, that's right. We ran into some trouble 'bout a year ago, and I made my amazin' self proof there!" His attempt to sound casual was tinged with his typical bravado, drawing a few smiles from around the table.

The room was lively, filled with clinking glasses and shared stories, until Julius, perhaps unintentionally, steered the conversation toward a more sensitive topic. "Remembering the trial back in the royal capital…" he started, his voice trailing off as he sensed the immediate shift in the atmosphere.

The room fell silent for a moment, each member of the gathered factions reflecting on that tumultuous time. It was Felt who broke the silence with a shout, her voice tinged with indignation. "That was plain unfair, that whole mess!" Her outburst echoed around the room, her frustration palpable.

Ferris, always quick to defend his charges, added heatedly, "And how the Sage Council treated both Lady Crusch and Subaru was just wrong. That Bordeaux guy seemed seriously cowwupt."

The mention of Subaru sparked a new thread of conversation. Garfiel, his curiosity piqued, leaned forward. "Is that Natsuki Subaru really all that?" His tone was skeptical, a frown crossing his rugged features.

His question prompted nods from both Rem and Emilia, who had been quiet up to that point. Their serious expressions conveyed their firm belief in Subaru's character and his actions.

Anastasia, catching the tail end of the conversation, chimed in with a light laugh, "Oh, that Subaru's got a knack for makin' a mess and cleaning it right up. He's certainly somethin'."

Julius, with a smile, added, "Indeed, his methods might be unconventional, but his intentions and results are undeniable. He's earned more respect than many realize."

Around the table, reactions varied. Some looked puzzled, clearly unsure why Subaru garnered such mixed but strong sentiments. The discussions that followed were a mixture of admiration, skepticism, and curiosity, each person adding their perspective to the complex tapestry of relationships and politics that Subaru had influenced.

As the dinner progressed, the conversation ebbed and flowed with a mix of seriousness and light-hearted banter. Wilhelm, having settled into his seat, observed the room with a seasoned eye. His gaze landed on Garfiel, who was currently fending off an enthusiastic Mimi trying to feed him every piece of Kagaragan cuisine she could find on the table. Garfiel's attempts to refuse were half-hearted at best, betraying his underlying amusement.

Wilhelm, finding a moment to interject, addressed Garfiel with a raised eyebrow and a hint of curiosity in his voice. "I hear you've become the Emilia camp's knight, is that true?" His tone was casual but carried a clear respect for the role.

Garfiel, caught off guard by the sudden attention, swallowed his food and responded with a mixture of pride and slight embarrassment. "Ah, yeah, that's right. We ran into some trouble 'bout a year ago, and I made my amazin' self proof there!" His attempt to sound casual was tinged with his typical bravado, drawing a few smiles from around the table.

The room was lively, filled with clinking glasses and shared stories, until Julius, perhaps unintentionally, steered the conversation toward a more sensitive topic. "Remembering the trial back in the royal capital…" he started, his voice trailing off as he sensed the immediate shift in the atmosphere.

The room fell silent for a moment, each member of the gathered factions reflecting on that tumultuous time. It was Felt who broke the silence with a shout, her voice tinged with indignation. "That was plain unfair, that whole mess!" Her outburst echoed around the room, her frustration palpable.

Ferris, always quick to defend his charges, added heatedly, "And how the Sage Council treated both Lady Crusch and Subaru was just wrong. That Bordeaux guy seemed seriously corrupt."

The mention of Subaru sparked a new thread of conversation. Garfiel, his curiosity piqued, leaned forward. "Is that Natsuki Subaru really all that?" His tone was skeptical, a frown crossing his rugged features.

His question prompted nods from both Rem and Emilia, who had been quiet up to that point. Their serious expressions conveyed their firm belief in Subaru's character and his actions.

Anastasia, catching the tail end of the conversation, chimed in with a light laugh, "Oh, that Subaru's got a knack for making a mess and cleaning it right up. He's certainly something."

Julius, with a smile, added, "Indeed, his methods might be unconventional, but his intentions and results are undeniable. He's earned more respect than many realize."

Around the table, reactions varied. Some looked puzzled, clearly unsure why Subaru garnered such mixed but strong sentiments. The discussions that followed were a mixture of admiration, skepticism, and curiosity, each person adding their perspective to the complex tapestry of relationships and politics that Subaru had influenced.

As the evening's conversation shifted and flowed around the room, Wilhelm excused himself with a subtle nod, his expression unreadable but tinged with a certain unease. The talk of Subaru, who had slain the White Whale—a deed Wilhelm had long hoped would be his own crowning vengeance—seemed to weigh heavily on him. Crusch watched him go, her gaze thoughtful, understanding more than others might about the complexities of his feelings.

Meanwhile, Julius turned the conversation slightly, his curiosity evident as he addressed Felt. "And Reinhard, where might he be tonight?"

Felt shrugged, a playful smirk crossing her face. "Official knight stuff, you know how it is. He's always out and about. But he'll join us tomorrow, promised he wouldn't miss it."

Across the table, Rem sat quietly, her mind wandering back to Subaru. The discussions around him, the evident respect and skepticism he evoked, made her reflect on her own complex feelings towards him. Subaru had changed her life in ways she couldn't fully articulate, and thinking about him stirred a mix of gratitude and concern.

Anastasia, keeping the mood light, nudged Mimi who was still playfully interacting with Garfiel. "Look at you two, eh? Could be proper grounds for a royal alliance, ya think?" she teased in her distinct Kagaragi accent, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

Just as Wilhelm reached the exit of the dining hall, a faint but growing commotion could be heard from outside. Pausing, his hand on the door, the murmurs inside the hall died down as everyone's attention shifted towards the noise.

It grew louder, clearer—a voice unmistakably Beatrice's, tinged with frustration and laced with Subaru's influence. "He is drunk, I suppose! Totally wasted, in fact!"

Then came Subaru's voice, firm and reproachful. "Heinkel!" A pause, "He is not!.. Probably?"

"No" Betty, "That is a lie I suppose! Why lie to Betty!"

The room fell silent, every pair of eyes wide with shock.

"Heinkel, you are absolutely, without a doubt, the worst drunk I have ever supervised. Yes, you are. And Betty is including that tavern incident with the rogue mabeasts, I suppose!" Beatrice's voice was tinged with exasperation but carried a comedic undertone that was hard to miss.

Subaru's reply was equally humorous, albeit laced with feigned severity. "Really, Heinkel, you're setting a terrible example." A brief pause, "What would Halibel say? Actually, let's not find out."

Inside the dining hall, everyone froze, unsure whether to be concerned or amused. The voices grew louder, closer, and then— "It can't be..." Rem murmured, her eyes widening.

An awkward silence fell just before the door slid open with a bit of a stumble. There stood Natsuki Subaru, a sheepish grin on his face, with a thoroughly inebriated Heinkel Astrea slung over his shoulder like a sack of particularly troublesome potatoes.

Subaru paused, scanning the room filled with stunned faces, before raising a hand in a cheerful salute. "Hey, everyone! How's it going?" His grin widened as he shifted Heinkel's weight on his shoulder, trying to keep the knight from sliding off.

Beside him, Heinkel mumbled something unintelligible, his words slurred and muffled by his own arm.

Wilhelm, who had just risen to his feet in a mix of concern and fatherly alarm, stood frozen, eyes wide as he processed the sight of his son in such a disheveled state. The rest of the room mirrored his shock, a collective disbelief hanging thick in the air.

After a moment of awkward silence, Subaru chuckled nervously, glancing around at the other royal selection candidates and their entourages. "Uh, sorry to interrupt—just dealing with a little... knight management here."

As Subaru held the room's attention with Heinkel awkwardly draped over his shoulder, an uneasy silence pervaded the space. Faces around the room ranged from shocked to bemused, unsure of how to respond to such an unorthodox interruption. The pause stretched out, heavy with unvoiced questions and raised eyebrows.

Just when the silence seemed almost unbearable, Felt burst into laughter. The sound was loud and genuine, piercing the tense atmosphere like a needle through fabric. Her amusement, however, didn't seem to catch on; the rest of the room remained quiet, the concern still visible on many faces.

Anastasia, ever observant, simply tilted her head, her eyes narrowing slightly as she assessed the situation with a mixture of intrigue and caution.

Mimi, unable to contain herself, pointed at Hienkle and exclaimed, "He's totally drunk! Mimi can smell it from here!" She then dramatically covered her nose, adding a playful "Pyew!" to emphasize her point, which brought a few smiles and light chuckles from some of the less tense onlookers.

Amid the mixed reactions, Wilhelm stood up, moving towards Subaru. The two men locked eyes, a silent understanding—or perhaps confusion—passing between them. Subaru, maintaining his hold on Heinkel, managed a sheepish but friendly smile.

"Ah, Wilhelm, good evening!" Subaru greeted warmly. "What do you reckon we should do with your son here?"

The question seemed to catch Wilhelm off guard, his stern demeanor faltering as he processed Subaru's casual tone and the sight of his own son in such a state. The room held its breath, waiting for his response.

Subaru, sensing the heavy pause, quickly added, "Yeah, actually, scratch that. I'll figure something out, don't worry." His tone was light, almost breezy, as if he was handling a minor inconvenience rather than a drunken knight.

With that, he turned to leave, Heinkel still in tow, causing a few heads to shake in disbelief. Beatrice, visibly annoyed by the entire ordeal, followed closely behind Subaru, her expression one of exasperation aimed as much at Heinkel's condition as the situation they were now leaving behind.

As the door closed behind them, the room finally began to stir, the tension easing into whispered conversations and speculative glances, everyone trying to make sense of the unexpected and unconventional display they had just witnessed.

Crusch remained poised but her eyes followed Subaru with a thoughtful intensity. She was pondering the complexities that Subaru seemed to consistently bring with him, wondering about the deeper layers of his character that prompted such unexpected actions.

Ferris, usually light-hearted and playful, looked genuinely puzzled, his ears twitching as he whispered to Crusch, "That was...something, wasn't it?" He shook his head, a small smile creeping back as he tried to find humor in the situation.

Julius, who had brought up the trial initially, now wore a faint expression of regret mingled with concern. He sighed softly, acknowledging internally that such disruptions seemed to orbit Subaru naturally, whether he intended them or not.

In a corner, Felt continued to chuckle, shaking her head in disbelief. "That guy never changes, does he?" she remarked to anyone who would listen, finding Subaru's handling of the situation both absurd and endearing in equal measure.

Anastasia, her head still tilted, now allowed a smirk to play across her lips as she murmured to a nearby affiliate, "Well, that's one way ta handle a public dinner. Keeps thins' interestin', doesn't it?" Her tone was light, but her eyes were sharp, always calculating the implications of such behaviors on her plans.

Mimi, still covering her nose theatrically, giggled and then looked around, seeking approval for her jest. Her energy seemed to lighten the mood for a few others nearby who started to relax a bit after the initial shock.

Across from her, Garfiel scratched his head, a frown knitting his brows as he turned to Otto. "That's the legendary Subaru? Seemed more like a fuckin' circus ringmaster to me." His tone mixed disbelief with a hint of admiration for Subaru's audacity.

Otto, standing next to Garfiel, gave a sheepish grin, his hand adjusting his glasses nervously. "Well, that's one side of him, anyway, I've heard much worse."

The reactions around the room painted a picture of a group still trying to figure Subaru out, each from their own perspective. His unpredictability was a double-edged sword, at times disarming and at others disconcerting.

Crusch observed Wilhelm's departure, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and respect. Once he was out of earshot, she turned to Ferris, her closest confidant, her voice low but firm. "It seems Wilhelm feels the need to address this personally. I trust his judgment, but I do hope this doesn't escalate tensions further."

Ferris nodded, his usual playful demeanor tempered by the gravity of his leader's tone. "Wilhelm has always been one to settle matters directly. But with Subaru, you never really know how straightforward anything is."

Crusch leaned back, her fingers tapping lightly on the table, a sign of her thoughtful consideration. "Indeed, Ferris. Subaru brings with him a whirlwind of change, wherever he goes. His intentions are generally good, but his methods can be… unconventional. And Wilhelm, with his strong sense of duty and honor, might find that difficult to reconcile."

Ferris tilted his head, considering Crusch's words. "Do you think there's more between them? I mean, with the White Whale and all—Wilhelm had his heart set on that for so long, and then Subaru..."

"He may seek some closure or understanding, perhaps even an acknowledgment," Crusch suggested, her voice softening. "Wilhelm's quest against the White Whale was not just about vengeance; it was deeply personal. And while Subaru's role in its defeat was pivotal, it also abruptly shifted Wilhelm's lifelong pursuit."

The two sat in silence for a moment, reflecting on the complex web of motivations and histories intertwined between Subaru and Wilhelm. Ferris finally spoke, his voice gentle yet serious, "Wilhelm is strong, but he carries many burdens. Maybe this talk with Subaru will offer him some relief, or at least a clearer path forward."

Crusch nodded, a faint smile gracing her lips as she appreciated Ferris's insight. "Let us hope so, Ferris. For both their sakes. In the meantime, we must continue our preparations. The days ahead will not be simpler, and we need to be ready for whatever comes."

After Subaru left the room with Heinkel still slung over his shoulder, and Beatrice trailing behind, a lingering silence fell over the spot where he had stood. Rem and Emilia exchanged glances, their expressions tight with unspoken frustrations.

Rem's disappointment was great. Her eyes narrowed slightly as she watched the door swing shut behind Subaru. "He didn't even stop to say hello," she said, her voice low and tinged with a mix of hurt and annoyance. It was unlike Subaru to overlook them completely, and it stung more than she expected.

Emilia's face, usually composed, showed clear signs of irritation. She crossed her arms, her gaze fixed on the door through which Subaru had disappeared. "That was rude," she said flatly. "It's as if we're strangers to him now." Her words cut through the ambient noise of the dining hall, sharp and cold.

Their reactions were more than just hurt feelings; they were a reflection of deeper issues that had been brewing. For Emilia, especially, Subaru's abrupt exit without acknowledgment felt like a slight, a dismissal of the bond they once shared so openly and strongly.

"He seems to have forgotten who stood by him when he needed it most," Emilia added, her voice steady but the hurt clear in her eyes. Her words were not just a reflection of the moment but an echo of the distance that had grown between them.

Rem nodded in agreement, her usual warmth replaced by a calculative coolness. "We should probably get used to this. Subaru has his own priorities now, and apparently, we're not one of them," she concluded, her voice a blend of resignation and sharpness.

The room around them continued to buzz with laughter and conversation, but for Rem and Emilia, the festive atmosphere couldn't erase the sting of Subaru's disregard. They both turned away from the door, setting their expressions into smiles as they rejoined the conversation around them, but their minds were elsewhere, processing the sudden realization of their changed relationship with Subaru.

As the night wore on and the buzz of dinner conversations faded into the background, Subaru managed to put a thoroughly inebriated Heinkel to bed. The task hadn't been easy, with Heinkel mumbling and grumbling all the way, but it was done. Subaru stepped out of the room, Beatrice floating closely beside him, her expression still a mix of annoyance and relief that the ordeal was over.

As they turned down the corridor, a figure approached them. It was Wilhelm, his posture straight and his expression unreadable in the dimly lit hallway. He stopped a few feet away from Subaru, his presence commanding yet not imposing.

"Subaru," Wilhelm began, his voice formal, carrying a weight that immediately set the tone for a serious conversation. He paused for a moment, searching Subaru's face as if trying to read deeper into the boy's soul. Then, he asked pointedly, "What are you, Subaru?"

Subaru paused, sensing the gravity in Wilhelm's question. The dimly lit hallway seemed to close in around them, emphasizing the seriousness of the moment. He looked into Wilhelm's searching eyes, aware that this was more than a casual inquiry.

His mind flickered back to a promise he had made to Rem, a moment of self-declaration that had felt so right at the time. "A hero," he finally responded, his voice steady despite the weight of Wilhelm's gaze. "Self-proclaimed, though."

The admission hung between them. Wilhelm's face remained impassive, giving nothing away as he processed Subaru's words. The silence stretched, filled with a tension that seemed to echo along the empty corridor.

Subaru's mind raced as he processed Wilhelm's intense gaze, feeling the weight of the moment and the gravity of the question hanging in the air. He felt Beatrice tighten her grip on his hand, a silent support in the charged atmosphere. Subaru's expression shifted, a spark of something fierce and resolute igniting in his eyes. With a sudden clarity, as if guided by an unseen mentor, he corrected himself with a firm, "No."

He allowed another brief pause to settle, giving his next words more impact. "Wilhelm Van Astrea, you want something more, don't you?" Subaru's smile was small but meaningful, filled with a newfound resolve. He straightened, taking on a stance that seemed to channel a depth of character often obscured by his usual antics.

"Then allow me to reintroduce myself," Subaru continued, his voice gaining strength. He paused dramatically, ensuring his words would resonate. "I am Subaru Natsuki, son of Kenichi Natsuki. Heir to nothing in this world but my own pride. And while I may not seem it, I am more than just simple."

He took a deep breath, his gaze unwavering as he locked eyes with Wilhelm. "I admit, everybody has their quirks—others are strong, fast, smart, great? I want to be something like that. But I don't do what I do out of spite. I'm not greedy, or lustful, I don't over-consume like a glutton, or laze around in sloth. I don't do things out of wrath, I'm not often envious of others, I'm full of that."

Subaru paused again, letting the silence fill with his earnest declaration. "Neither am I vain, and I could never claim to be depressed knowing who I am."

The air between them thickened with the weight of his words, Wilhelm's expression subtly shifting from stern inquiry to a slight surprise. His eyes moved, reflecting a mix of respect and reconsideration as he absorbed the full measure of Subaru's self-assessment. Wilhelm had faced many truths in his long life, but the raw honesty from the young man before him was unexpectedly compelling, painting the 'self-proclaimed hero' in a more complex light.

Subaru's voice carried a quiet intensity as he continued, his gaze shifting from Wilhelm to Beatrice, who also seemed captivated by his words. "As I stated, I am Natsuki Subaru. To me, this world is unfair," he declared, his voice steady and sure. "It's cruel, harsh, ripping everything beloved away from you. That's why I vowed to change it. If you intend to judge me, then judge me."

He locked eyes again with Wilhelm, his expression serious. "I'm still a boy, barely a man, you know that? But I see my future clear and bright. No matter how many setbacks, incursions, lies, or threats, I've stood tall."

Subaru paused, his eyes reflecting a fierce determination. "I'm prideful. I can acknowledge that. It's in my character to be so. Why should I bow when I would rather die standing? It is those of us who move strong, who have character, that can change fate. This is my decision, my choice, through whatever means necessary."

He took a deep breath, his next words ringing with resolve. "I have changed my fate and will continue to fight, fight, fight for the world I deem worthy." His declaration hung in the air, a testament to his will and the path he had chosen—a path marked not just by challenges, but by a clear vision of what he felt compelled to accomplish, no matter the cost.

Wilhelm listened intently, his initial posture of inquiry softening into one of contemplation. Subaru's words, heavy with conviction and a youthful fire, seemed to resonate with the seasoned warrior, who had seen much and understood the complexities of a life pledged to a cause. The young man before him had grown in ways Wilhelm had not anticipated, his spirit not just surviving but thriving amidst trials that would have broken many others.

Subaru let out a soft laugh, one that carried a mix of irony and acceptance. "Have I changed?" he mused aloud, his voice reflecting a philosophical undertone. "Inevitably, that's how things are. Change. Change. Change. Anyone who can't is left behind." Beatrice, listening intently, seemed taken aback by the blunt reality in Subaru's words, her expression one of slight shock mingled with contemplation of her own journey alongside him.

Subaru turned his attention back to Wilhelm, his tone softening, "I'm sorry about your son, Sir Wilhelm. I've seen enough to admit that things are not easy between your family. But I give hope so that he may find purpose. He's a skilled warrior."

Wilhelm nodded slowly, acknowledging the truth in Subaru's words. "Yes, Heinkel is skilled," he agreed quietly, appreciating Subaru's recognition of his son's abilities despite the obvious flaws.

Subaru continued, "And while his character needs work, I intend to let him see everything that makes him great." He paused again, letting the weight of his commitment to aiding Heinkel, despite their rough interactions, hang in the air.

This conversation was more than just an exchange of observations; it was a gesture of goodwill, an offer to assist in healing old wounds within Wilhelm's family. Subaru's approach, grounded in his own experiences with growth and adaptation, showed a maturity that went beyond his years—a commitment to influence positively those around him, even in complex familial dynamics.

Wilhelm's face, lined with the trials of a seasoned warrior and marked by a lifetime of profound experiences, softened into a mixture of sadness and hope. He studied Subaru closely, almost as if seeing him for the first time. "Natsuki Subaru. Is this really who you've become?" There was a depth of sincerity and wonder in his voice, reflecting his amazement at the young man's growth.

Subaru, standing confidently with his shoulders back and a firm resolve shining in his eyes, responded with a bright, unwavering smile. "Aye, it is!" His answer was vibrant, echoing his commitment to his path and the identity he had carved out for himself in this world. Beatrice, floating beside him with her delicate features drawn in a blend of pride and concern, looked up at him, her grip tightening on the hem of her dress as she sensed the significance of the moment.

Wilhelm, absorbing Subaru's affirmation, nodded slowly. His posture was one of a warrior at ease, yet there was an undeniable tension in how he held himself—a reflection of his struggles and the hope he harbored for both his son and the future Subaru envisioned. The conversation, filled with the gravity of their shared understanding, marked a pivotal moment of mutual respect and acknowledgment between the old guardian and the self-proclaimed hero.

"So, Wilhelm Van Astrea," Subaru began, his tone carrying a mix of resolve and respect. He stood firmly, his youthful face set with determination, contrasting sharply with the seasoned visage of the knight before him. "I will change this world. One way or another. You are somebody I respect. Please don't hold any hostility towards me." His lips curved into a slight smile, lightening his words. "That'd hurt my ego!" he added with a chuckle, trying to ease the intensity of the moment.

Subaru's gaze remained steady, his eyes clear and earnest as he continued, "I learned about you, Wilhelm. I'm nothing but impressed by your feats, and I'd never want you to fall behind. "So," he paused, his smile broadening, genuine and inviting, "Will you be there to see my dream?"

The question hung in the air, filled with an earnest plea for mentorship and camaraderie. Subaru's posture relaxed slightly, his hands loosely at his sides, portraying the openness of his request. Beatrice, ever at his side, watched this exchange with a mixture of apprehension and hope, her small form almost glowing in the dim light of the hallway as she anticipated Wilhelm's response.

Wilhelm stood momentarily stunned by the directness of Subaru's proposition, processing the weight of Subaru's words. The usual composed sword demon found himself grappling with the unexpected turn in their conversation, his expression a blend of surprise and deliberation.

He took a deep breath, his stance relaxing as he shifted from surprise to contemplation, recognizing the changes in Subaru. "Subaru, your words carry a significant weight, and your aspirations are notably ambitious," Wilhelm finally responded, his tone reflecting both respect and a trace of skepticism. "You've certainly grown into a figure worthy of respect, one who speaks with the conviction of a leader."

Yet, as he considered Subaru's invitation to witness his dream, Wilhelm's brow furrowed, his warrior instincts mixing with a cautious curiosity. "But what exactly is this dream of yours, Subaru? What do you plan to do, and what does it all mean?" he asked, his voice firm, needing clarity. "You speak of change and a vision for the future, but what form does that take? What are you truly aiming to achieve?"

"I intend on challenging every preconceived notion of this unfair reality," Subaru declared, his voice filled with a passionate resolve. "I'll spin everything and rearrange the table upside down. Round and half, and all!" His grand smile seemed to light up the dim hallway, reflecting his earnest ambition.

"My intentions are pure, and wholeheartedly, my actions are for the betterment of this country and its people," he continued, his tone sincere and persuasive. "Trust me, oh sword demon," he added, a playful yet respectful nod to Wilhelm's renowned prowess. "Accept my apology for my rashness. I just like to speak a lot is all!"

"Very well," Wilhelm finally nodded, his voice carrying a mixture of resignation and cautious approval.

"You have spirit, Natsuki Subaru," Wilhelm stated, his voice firm and commanding. "Do not fail. I will hold you accountable to this." His tone was not merely one of challenge but also of a pledge—a commitment from one warrior to another that he would watch Subaru's journey closely, ready to remind him of his own words should he stray or falter. "But your Pride..."

The nasty eyed boy interrupted. "Has always been hard to swallow"