Chapter Text
Chapter 15: Conflict.
After the rowdy commotion that took place a few moments ago courtesy of Heinkel, the atmosphere was a stark contrast now. Everyone was sitting silently but the main subject of the matter was still the poor Sword Saintess.
The Sword Saintess had shifted to the pillows and sat with everyone after Subaru's invitation. Reinhard wasn't the one to say no especially to her beloved Subaru.
Julius had taken his seat as well next to Anastasia and diagnol to Joshua. His violet eyes shifted from the Sword Saintess to the bum of a merchant every few moments. Otto had been very quiet the whole time and his actions were suggesting his involvement in certain things. ‘I'll interrogate him right after Reinhard is done. Right here.’ Julius thought as he watched the merchant from the corner of his eye.
Reinhard was sitting right next to Subaru. Felt was on his left side. It made Emilia be detached from Subaru. As for the great spirit, she was happy sitting on Subaru's lap. This was Felt's shameless strategy to cuck Emilia. They would completely block Emilia from Subaru. Felt made a thumbs up sign under the table with triumph.
The silence in the room had streched out for too long now. Someone needed to break the silence. Subaru did, as he began. “Rein, so can we all hear the whole story. Can you be honest to all of us- at least to me.” Subaru said his eyes on her.
Reinhard's eyes drifted off to his face as well. She didn't say anything, her blue eyes held his gaze for a few moments. “You said you love me, then say the truth.” The raven haired boy said encouraging her to open up.
“Yeah Reinhard no need to get tense and all that shit. We are not like that drunkard. Come on be confident!” Felt encouraged her useless knight as well.
Reinhard smiled and then said. “I was going to speak honestly even if you didn't ask me to. Fret not, I shall uncover all the details of my story.”
“You better do that Sword Saintess. Betty doesn't like to hear half a tale.” Beatrice said looking up at the Sword Saintess's face while she made herself cozy in Subaru's lap.
“Of course, Beatrice-Sama. I won't dare to spread lies while you're here, not that I would do it in your absence.” Reinhard said politely as she looked at the Great Spirit.
Inside Reinhard was fuming with envy. Her insides were a cocktail of jealousy, envy and desire. ‘I wish I was the one in his lap! Ughh, how lucky you are Beatrice-Sama.’ The red head thought to herself.
The Great Spirit smirked at her. Reinhard was startled. ‘Is she able to read minds? Oh no, I'm so embarrassed!’ Reinhard thought as she looked away from the Great Spirit. The truth was Beatrice had just sensed her emotions and concluded that Reinhard was that. Judging from the reaction, she was indeed correct.
“So, Miss Adelheid or Reinhard.... Care to explain properly now?” Julius said with an adamant expression. Reinhard may be his old friend but he doesn't spare anyone while on his duties.
“Yes Reinhard-San please explain what's going on! From the very beginning.” Emilia requested with concerned eyes.
Felt gave Reinhard a dirty look when Emilia spoke. Reinhard paid no heed to that and politely nodded. “Yes I will make sure to explain from the very start.” She said with an affirmative nod.
---X---
“And that's all I'm willing to share with everybody.” Reinhard finished her explanation. She didn't disclose much information about the internal affairs of the Felt Camp. She especially excluded the whole Otto part.
“So she really is in love with Subaru, I suppose.” The Great Spirit hoarding Subaru's lap said.
“Yes indeed she is.” Anastasia agreed with a amused smile as looked curiously at the Sword Saintess.
Emilia's expression shifted to doubt. She didn't know what to do. At first place, wasn't Subaru in love with her. Would he accept Reinhard just like this. ‘Isn't Subaru in love with me, do I have to share him with Reinhard-San?’ She thought.
Felt then patted Reinhard on the back. “Well done! Even if it was for a few moments you stood your ground against that failure of a father.” Joshua cringed at that.
“Ay, you there, three eyes with the monocle got any problem?” Felt turned to Joshua who just shook his head swiftly. “Don't worry I was kidding ya.” Felt said and smirked at the violet haired youngster who just shifted uncomfortably.
Otto had been a little relieved knowing that the situation was at rest now. He had come out of his shell. The sweat beads were wiped away by his green sleeves. ‘I can finally breath.’ He thought.
Otto thought that he was going to get away with the things he did for Reinhard and Felt Camp. But unfortunately for him, the finest knight was still eyeing his every move quietly like a predator waiting for the perfect opportunity to strike.
“Mr Suwen.” Julius said with an authorative tone making Otto flinch.
Everyone's gaze shifted to Otto or the finest knight. Otto didn't match his gaze. “Yes what is it?” He asked trying to put on a confident front.
“I sense you are invo-” Julius was about to discuss about the possible involvement of Otto but was cut off.
The doors slid open and stepped inside an old man who looked too fit for his age. Though his butler's attire appeared quite shabby. The man had an expression which was of exhaustion. His chest was heaving.
“I apologize for the intrusion but Lady Crusch and Felix-Dono have safely arrived without any major inconvenience.” The butler said with a small bow in his curt voice that have been honed for years.
Otto grimaced his face turned and twisted into a defeated expression. He gritted his teeth. ‘Fuck no! I ensured they wouldn't come here- how did they.” His mind rattled.
Julius noticed that and his suspicions were proven right. He then glanced back at the old butler. “Sir Wilhelm I suggest you take a moment to catch your breath. You look completely spent.” The finest knight suggested to Wilhelm.
“Yeah Wilhelm-San you should take some rest. You look like you've been through a war, again.” Subaru said with a worried look. Anastasia stifled a laugh at the last word.
“Subaru-Dono if you say so-” Wilhelm froze mid word when he turned to look at Subaru. His eyes widened the corners crinkling as his vision was fixated at the person sitting next to Subaru.
“My... Therasia... is th-that you?” The man said in a trembling voice his pupils dialated. He was looking at Reinhard.
Reinhard felt the weight of his gaze on her. She shuffled her shoulders uncomfortably. She wanted to deny that she wasn't Therasia but no words came out.
The old man took a step forward his knee almost buckling under his own weight. He reached out a shaky hand towards her but he was still out of reach. “Therasia it's me please l-look at m-” A black sleeved hand with orange and white highlights took his hand. Wilhelm stopped his ramblings as he looked at the hand.
“Wilhelm-San, I'm sorry to break it down to you but she is not Therasia. Please get a grip man.” He said firmly gripping his gloved hand.
Wilhelm calmed down and blinked a few times. He looked at the red haired girl again. “Then who is this Subaru-Dono?” He asked.
Reinhard gulped and looked at Felt. Felt looked at Reinhard and then turned her gaze to the merchant clad in green. He shrinked at her venomous gaze.
Subaru scratched his head. He didn't know what to say. ‘Should I tell the truth?’ He wondered.
Suddenly Wilhelm's face grew colder and his eyes narrowed. “Subaru-Dono, I presume I have found out who this lady is.” His gruff voice was laced with disdain.
The room underwent a silence. Julius grabbed the hilt of his sword out of habit. But he was grasping at air, for he wasn't equipped with a sword.
“Reinhard.” The name dropped like a bomb. Wilhelm looked upset and disappointed as he eyed his grandson now granddaughter.
Reinhard tensed visibly. She looked up at Wilhelm but found the Sword Demon. “Yes it's me esteemed grandfather, how did you know?” She said.
Wilhelm's face contorted into disgust and disappoinment. “I would have identified you the first time if you hadn't taken up the visage of my beloved.” The Sword Demon said with disdain. “I can feel the overwhelming amount of aura exerting from you. Additioned with the fact that you have the traits of an Astrea. The presence of Lady Felt cemented it.” The Sword Demon said slowly.
Anastasia gave an approving smile. “The old man is quite clever I must say. Guess he ain't only got brawns.” She praised him.
Subaru didn't like where this was going. He clenched his heart and stood up. “Wilhelm-San I have a lot of respect for you so please don't berate Reinhard. I won't let another commotion break out.” The raven haired boy said boldly hoping the old man would oblige.
Wilhelm slowly stood up as well. “Subaru-Dono I also possess a high opinion of you. So I plead you please refrain from getting between Reinhard and I.” The Sword Demon said with a neutral tone.
Subaru didn't flinch. “I am afraid I have to get between you two.” He said matching the icy gaze of the Sword Demon.
Wilhelm was intrigued. “If I may ask, but why?”
Subaru answered without missing a beat. “For I have vowed to be the shield to her sword.” His words were true. Reinhard felt no winds blowing.
Wilhelm's face darkened. He shifted his gaze to Reinhard. “What kind of lies have you fed him Sword Saint? Was stealing Her face not enough that you even manipulated Lady Emilia's Knight.” He said with an angry tone.
Reinhard stood up as well standing next to Subaru. Following her Felt stood up as well. “Well old man, unluckily ya' missed the show.” Felt said.
“What is the meaning of this. What transpired here?” The Sword Demon asked with confusion.
“Esteemed grandfather I suggest we all sit down and have a civil conversation. Please.” Reinhard said. Subaru nodded.
Wilhelm was reluctant but agreed and sat down. He was already weak because of the Zoda bug storm.
After everyone was seated Subaru spoke first. “So let us begin. Wilhelm-San I want you to listen till the end.” Subaru said and Wilhelm nodded.
---X---
Wilhelm had maintained a neutral face throughout the explanation. It getting harder every minute.
After the explanation had ended he felt a lot of emotions. He was at a loss of words. ‘Od what kind of sick joke is this.’ He thought.
Beatrice took a sushi from the table and ate it. “Nobody appreciates these delicious food, I suppose.” She hummed with delight.
Wilhelm finally spoke. “Subaru-Dono I have question.” Wilhelm said in a soft voice.
“Yes please ask Wilhelm-San.” Subaru replied without thinking.
“Hmm then, I'm going to be bold and ask directly. Are you thinking about c-” Wilhelm was cut off as the door slid open to reveal a twink with cat ears.
“Nya! Sorry for the late arrival we just ran into a swarm of Nyo'da bugs nothing special.” Felix said with a cheerful face.
“Worry not, we came out unscathed due to Wilhelm-Dono. He took most of the damage.” Crusch said as she stepped in as well.
Otto was screaming inside. ‘Oh my Od, I'm seriously in big, really big trouble.’ He thought.
“Please take a seat Ferris and Lady Crusch.” Julius gestured to the empty seats near the Anastasia Camp. Anastasia waved at them with a sly smile.
The two took their seats. “Wilhelm-San what was it, tell me now.” Subaru said looking back at the old man.
Wilhelm held a neutral face and then he closed his eyes. “Let's save it for another time Subaru-Dono.” He said dismissively. Subaru gave a sheepish nod and he turned his attention to the new inhabitants of the room.
“I'll go sit with them.” Wilhelm said softly and went to sit with Felix and Crusch. Reinhard let out a breath she didn't know she was holding.
“Hey you okay?” Subaru asked, his voice barely above a whisper. He was checking up on her.
She looked at him. Her eyes widened at his warm gaze. “Yes, thanks to you.” She quickly, flashing a cheerful smile to Subaru.
“Good now let's focus on all this.” Subaru's smiled back and his eyes went away.
‘I think the time has come. I have been interrupted quite a few times now. It's become bothersome.’ The finest thought as surveyed the room with his piercing gaze of violet.
“Apologies in advance to everyone gathered here.” Julius stood up slowly with poise and refined movements.
Everyone stopped what they were doing and glanced at the knight in violet. “What is it now tighty pants?” Felt asked with an irritated expression as she stabbed the plate with her fork.
“Apologies for disturbing you Lady Felt but it is something urgent that I wish to discuss right now.” Julius stated with a serious expression. Otto cursed under his breath.
“Wait! Before that Nyu'lius, who is this red haired girl sitting there?” Felix interrupted Julius this time. Julius popped a nerve.
“Yes I have never seen her. Is she from the Emilia Camp.” Crusch said as she looked at Reinhard.
“Well actually, that lass is the Sword Saint. Or she was, it's Sword Saintess now.” Anastasia said as she sprinkled some pepper on her food.
“What?” Felix croaked.
“She is Reinhard?” Crusch said with disbelief in her eyes.
“Yes Lady Crusch. I'm Reinhard Van Astrea, the Sword Saintess. Knight of Lady-” Reinhard began but was cut off by Felt.
“Enough with the shitty titles. You are wasting my time and theirs.” Felt complained as she chewed on some meat with her mouth open.
“Lady Felt please don't talk while chewing.” Reinhard said but was ignored by the ex slum dweller.
“Rein? What happened- you look nice though.” Felix said with a teasing glint.
“Yes you do look beautiful. Beauty like yours should be envied.” Crusch praised Reinhard.
Felt gave a dirty look and shrugged. “I am just gonna finish this and skedaddle.” She mumbled to herself.
“I appreciate your praise. As for what happened, it's quite the long story and we are running short on time.” Reinhard said.
“Short on time?” Subaru repeated and looked outside the window. “Shit it's about to be sunset soon. We should wrap up already.” Subaru looked outside the door, some staff were already waiting outside for cleaning. “I think the inn keepers agree with me.” He said with a chuckle.
“What it's already about to be sunset!” The greedy merchant exclaimed. “I guess time passes quickly when you're paired with entertainment.” She eyed the Sword Saintess who just flashed a awkward smile.
“Crusch-Dono it's time for your daily medical treatment. Let's retreat to our rooms, shall we?” Wilhelm stood up.
Crusch and Felix stood up as well and followed Wilhelm outside. “See you later everybody.” Crusch said as she left. “Nya! Have fun everybody.” Felix left too.
Wilhelm stopped to take a glance at Subaru and Reinhard sitting together. “Thank you for the wonderful evening. I must excuse myself now.” He bowed down and left.
“Yo, Julius let's go the triplets are waiting. Ricardo's hair will turn grey if he babysits them for any moment longer.” Anastasia said to Julius.
Julius agreed but sneaked a glance at Otto before leaving the room with Anastasia and the rest of the Anastasia Camp.
The room had emptied quickly. Otto looked at Reinhard with a grateful expression. “Reinhard-San?” Otto murmured to himself.
Reinhard winked at him. She mouthed a ‘Don't worry your secret is protected.’ Otto nodded vigorously and quickly got up. “Everyone I have some errands to run, sorry I have to leave-Bye!” Otto dashed out of the room startling everyone.
“Guess somebody's on the run.” Felt said. Reinhard coughed.
“What?” Emilia asked with curiosity.
“Nothing Lady Emilia.” Reinhard said with a dismissive wave and a polite smile.
Felt walked out of the room. “I'll be going too. Reinhard you come here for a moment please.” She said.
“Coming Lady Felt!” Reinhard said as she walked out of the room.
Once they were out of view, Felt quickly pulled Reinhard down to her level and whispered. “Listen, carefully. I'll busy the half elf and in the meantime you go out with your man, understood?”
Reinhard's face turned red. “Lady Felt you mean to say that I should go out with him-Now?” Reinhard said her voice barely above a whisper.
“Yes that's what I said, you have hearing disorders or something?” She said with exasperation evident in her voice. “Go grab the opportunity I'll busy the half elf, but you have to deal with arrogant spirit yourself.” Felt said with caution.
“Understood Lady Felt, I'll make sure to capitalize on this opportunity. Thanks to you.” Reinhard gave a salute.
“What's that?” Felt cringed.
“Oh just some Subaruism.” Reinhard said with a blush.
“That's a real word? Whatever I'll go busy the elf in a few moments then you swoop in to take your man. Got it- good.” Felt said with an incessant flow and turned away on her heel to leave.
To be continued...