Archive of Our Own ^beta

"Lia?"

He blinked again as he sat up, feeling disoriented. The small cat was still floating beside him, its little paws waving frantically.

"This can't be real…" Subaru murmured, blinking rapidly as he tried to make sense of his surroundings. Then he looked down at the unfamiliar mounds on his chest. They were soft and round, a sensation that was alien and startling to him. With a mixture of curiosity and disbelief, he poked them experimentally. "Ahm!" The unexpected sensation made him gasp.

Driven by a mix of panic and curiosity, Subaru's hand moved lower. His fingers brushed against the empty crotch area where he had always felt something else. "What the…?" He felt a surge of confusion and disbelief. He poked around a bit more, just to be sure, and his face contorted into a look of utter bewilderment.

"Uh, Lia, what are you doing?" the cat asked nervously, its tiny eyes darting around as if expecting someone to come by and catch them in this awkward moment. Puck's voice was high-pitched and shaky, clearly unsettled by Subaru's actions.

Subaru jumped back, his face turning crimson with embarrassment. "I…I was just checking!" he stammered, his voice rising in pitch. "This is all just so weird! I mean, I'm a girl now? Really?"

Puck floated closer, his expression a mix of concern and irritation. "Yes, really. But poking and prodding isn't going to help. We have more important things to worry about right now."

"Lia, huh?" Subaru mused aloud, trying to wrap his mind around this new identity. So that's the name of this avatar. He had nothing against females, but he was a guy and had always wanted a cool, handsome avatar. Not some chick. "This commercial prank is too realistic." Then he yelled at the sky, frustration bubbling up. "Oi, Gamemasters! You there?"

Silence.

"Status!" he yelled, expecting a floating window to appear in front of him, something like a game menu.

Nothing.

"Uh… Show my status?" he tried again, his voice tinged with desperation.

Nothing.

"Lia," the cat said, drawing his attention. "People are watching."

Subaru looked around and noticed that quite a few people had stopped to stare at his bizarre antics. Some were whispering, others just gawking openly. He felt his face heat up even more, a mix of embarrassment and frustration boiling over.

"Okay, okay, this is reaaally happening," he muttered to himself, trying to regain some composure. "So, I'm stuck in this avatar, and there's no game menu to help. Fantastic."

Puck sighed, hovering closer. "Yes, it's happening. But we need to focus on finding the thief, remember?"

"Right, the thief," Subaru echoed, nodding as he tried to gather his thoughts. "Let's get do it, Cat. And maybe I'll figure out what the hell is going on along the way."

"Good idea. And maybe keep your hands to yourself for now, alright?"

Subaru couldn't help but laugh, the absurdity of the situation catching up to him. "Yeah, probably a gooood idea. Let's go find that thief."

Subaru looked around and sure enough, there were people—humans and demi-humans alike—staring at him with a mix of curiosity and amusement. He could feel their eyes on him, making him even more self-conscious. So, these were players too? If he was really stuck here for some time, he couldn't afford to make a fool out of himself. But if he was stuck here, he might as well make the most of it. Perhaps gaming here would distract him from his dreary reality back home…

He shook his head, clearing away the dark thoughts.

"Ooh, I haven't introduced myself yet," He looked at the cat and grinned, slipping into his usual bravado. He did his signature pose: left hand close to hips, hip bent a bit, right hand pointing at the sky, chest out and a confident smile plastered across his face. "Yo! I am Subaru Natsuki, clueless and broke beyooond comparison! Are you my guide?"

The cat narrowed its eyes, clearly unimpressed. "That thief… she really shouldn't have pushed you that hard." It suddenly floated behind his neck and disappeared, but he could still hear the cat's voice in his head, echoing strangely. "Your name is Emilia, a half-elf and candidate for the royal selection. A thief just stole your insignia and we gotta find her before taking you to a doctor."

"Insignia?" Subaru frowned, the word not making much sense to him. But then, an image of a golden-colored small object, like a fancy badge with intricate designs, popped into his mind. Subaru assumed it was the cat's doing. The insignia was oval-shaped with elaborate etchings and a small gemstone embedded in the center, radiating a soft glow. "Oh… so it is my quest? Great! Although I would reaaaly—" he paused, catching himself. Why was he speaking like that? "—like to change my avatar."

"Lia," the cat spoke again, its voice strict and authoritative. "We don't have time to waste. We better find your insignia lest you lose your position as a candidate for the royal selection."

"Okay, got it! Find the insignia!" Subaru declared with renewed determination. He began to walk, then abruptly stopped. "Uh… how are we supposed to find this insignia?"

"Ask people for a young girl with blonde hair and a slim figure."

"Okay!" he shouted enthusiastically before poking his left breast once more, unable to get over the strange new sensations of his body. "These things are reaaaly weird."

"Lia…" the cat's voice carried a note of warning, clearly growing impatient with his antics.

"Right! Insignia!" Subaru said, snapping back to attention. "Uh Neko-chan, what's your name again?"

"Puck,"

"Nice to meet you, Puck!"

"Yeah…likewise."

Subaru looked around, trying to figure out his next move. The street was bustling with activity, merchants shouting their wares, children running around playing, and various creatures—both human and otherwise—going about their business. The place had a medieval vibe, with cobblestone streets and buildings made of stone and wood, giving it an old-world charm that felt oddly comforting.

He approached a fruit vendor, a burly man with a bushy beard and a friendly smile. "Excuse me, have you seen a young girl with blonde hair and a slim figure around here?"

The vendor scratched his head, thinking for a moment. "Aye, I think I saw someone like that running towards the market square. Seemed in a hurry."

"Thank you!" Subaru said, giving a small bow. He turned and started towards the market square, his new body feeling strange but manageable.

As he walked, he couldn't help but notice how different everything felt. His balance was off, and he was constantly aware of the weight on his chest. His long silver hair swayed with every step, occasionally getting caught in the slight breeze. It was both beautiful and bothersome, a constant reminder of his transformed identity.

"Lia, we're on the right track," the cat's voice reassured him from within his mind. "Stay focused."

"Yeah, yeah," Subaru muttered, weaving through the crowd. The market square was even busier, filled with stalls selling everything from exotic spices to handmade jewelry. The air was thick with the mingling scents of exotic foods, incense, and a hint of sweat from the bustling crowd.

Subaru approached a bread vendor, a stout woman with flour-dusted hands and a warm smile. Her stall was piled high with various loaves, from crusty baguettes to soft rolls. "Excuse me, have you seen a young girl with blonde hair and a slim figure around here?"

The woman frowned, thinking. "Can't say I have, dear. Lots of folks pass through here, though. You might want to try asking around more."

"Thanks anyway," Subaru said, giving a slight bow. As he turned to leave, he felt an odd sensation, as if the woman's eyes were lingering on him with a mix of curiosity and unease. He brushed it off and moved on to a nearby wine seller, a tall man with a weathered face and a deep voice, arranging bottles of red and white wines on his table.

"Hello, sir. Have you seen a blonde girl, slim build, around here recently?" Subaru asked, trying to keep his tone casual.

The wine seller shook his head. "Nope, haven't seen anyone like that. You might have better luck near the alleyways. Those sorts tend to hang around there."

"Got it, thanks," Subaru replied, though he felt a bit deflated. As he walked away, he noticed the wine seller watching him warily, as if trying to make sense of something.

As he walked through the market, he noticed the odd languages on the signs and couldn't read any of them. The people were selling some strange items: odd trinkets, glowing stones, and various potions in colorful vials. The fruits and vegetables looked unfamiliar, vibrant colors and unusual shapes he'd never seen before. Meats hung from hooks, some recognizable and others looking like they came from creatures out of a fantasy game.

Just then, he saw a little girl with green hair crying in the corner of the market. She looked lost and scared, her small frame shaking with sobs. Subaru's heart went out to her, despite the cat in his mind telling him not to waste time.

"We should keep moving, Lia. This isn't our concern," the cat advised sternly.

"I can't just leave her like that," Subaru insisted. "Even if she's an NPC, she needs help."

He approached the little girl slowly, trying not to startle her. "Hey there, are you lost?" he asked gently, kneeling down to her level. The girl looked up at him with wide, teary eyes but didn't respond. She seemed hesitant, unsure whether to trust him.

Subaru thought quickly. He remembered a simple magic trick his dad had taught him. He found a coin in the pouch at his waist, a small piece of silver that glinted in the light. "Watch this," he said, smiling warmly. He held the coin between his fingers, showing it to the girl before making it 'disappear' with a quick sleight of hand.

The girl's eyes widened in amazement. Subaru then 'pulled' the coin from behind her ear, making her giggle through her tears. He grinned, pleased that he had managed to cheer her up.

"See? All better now," he said, handing her the coin. "Now, let's find your mom, okay?"

After walking around for about ten minutes, a woman saw them and came running over, her face filled with relief. "Oh, thank the gods! Eina, where have you been?" she cried, scooping the girl into a tight hug. When the woman's eyes met Subaru's, she flinched slightly but then reluctantly said, "Thank you for helping my daughter."

"No problem," Subaru replied, smiling softly. "Glad I could help."

As the woman walked away, Subaru couldn't shake the feeling that something about him was making people uneasy. But he brushed it off and continued his search for the blonde girl with the slim figure.

He asked a few more people with no luck, until he finally approached a blacksmith hammering away at a glowing piece of metal. The man was muscular, with a rugged beard and a stern expression.

"Excuse me," Subaru called out over the clanging of metal. "I'm looking for a young girl with blonde hair and a slim build. Have you seen anyone like that around?"

The blacksmith paused, wiping sweat from his brow. "You talking about Felt? She's a known thief around here. Lives in the slum area."

"Felt, huh?" Subaru nodded. "Thanks for the info."

"Be careful," the blacksmith warned. "She's got a sharp tongue and quicker hands. Watch your pockets."

"Will do," Subaru said, heading off toward the slums with the cat giving him directions in his mind.

As he walked, the buildings became more dilapidated, and the streets narrower and dirtier. He couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation. This game world was strange and dangerous, but also thrilling in a way his old life never was.

"Alright, Puck," Subaru said, addressing the voice in his head. "Lead the way to Felt. Let's get that insignia back."

"Stay sharp, Lia," the cat replied. "We're almost there."

As Subaru made his way through the winding streets of the slum area, the air grew thick with the stench of decay and refuse. The buildings here were crumbling, their wooden frames sagging under the weight of neglect. Dark alleys branched off from the main path, each one seeming more ominous than the last. His nerves were on edge, every shadow and sudden movement catching his attention.

He saw a drunk man slumped against a wall, a bottle of some foul-smelling liquid clutched in his hand. The man's clothes were tattered, and his face was covered in grime. Subaru hesitated for a moment, then decided to approach him.

"Hey, man," Subaru called out, trying to keep his tone casual. "I'm looking for a girl named Felt. Blonde hair, slim build. Seen her around?"

The drunk man looked up, his eyes bloodshot and unfocused. He took a swig from his bottle before answering. "Felt, eh? She's a slippery one. If you're looking for the bitch, try the loot house down that way." He pointed a shaky finger down a narrow, twisting alley.

"Thanks, bro!" Subaru said, trying to sound upbeat.

"Yeah, yeah, fuck off, witch," the man muttered, taking another drink.

Subaru froze, the words hitting him like a punch to the gut. Witch? What did they mean by that? He felt a sudden rush of anxiety, his mind racing with questions.

"Pay them no heed, Lia," Puck, the cat, said reassuringly in his mind. "They don't know what they're talking about. Let's just find Felt and get your insignia back."

Subaru took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. "Right, right. Focus on the task. Got it."

He followed the drunk man's directions, heading down the narrow alley. The deeper he went, the more decrepit the surroundings became. The windows of the buildings were boarded up, and trash littered the streets. He saw a few rats scurrying about, and the occasional distant shout or crash echoed through the alleyways.

As he walked, he couldn't shake the unease that had settled over him. The word "witch" echoed in his mind. Why did people keep reacting to him like that? Was there something about this body, Emilia's body, that made them uneasy?

"Lia, we're getting close," Puck's voice interrupted Subaru's thoughts. "Just a bit further."

Subaru nodded to himself, picking up the pace. He turned a corner and saw a dilapidated hut that looked like it had seen better days, with a faded sign hanging precariously above the door. This must be the loot house.

He approached the hut cautiously and knocked on the door. A grumpy, heavy voice answered from inside, "For a rat."

"What?"

"For a whale?"

"Lia," Puck supplied. "I think he is asking for a password."

Subaru froze, his mind blank. "Uh, I don't know the password, but I'm looking for Felt. She stole my insignia."

There was a pause before the voice grumbled, "If you don't know the password, get lost."

Subaru hesitated. "Please, I reaaally need to see Felt. It's urgent."

The door creaked open, revealing a giant old man with a weathered face and a muscular build. His eyes narrowed as he studied Subaru. "Felt should be coming here soon. She's got something to sell to a client. That might be your insignia."

Subaru nodded, feeling a mix of relief and tension. "I'll wait then."

He stepped inside the hut, feeling the giant's watchful gaze on him. The interior was dimly lit, cluttered with various trinkets and items that looked like they had been scavenged from different places. Subaru found a spot to sit and waited, his mind racing with thoughts about what might happen next.

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows inside the hut, Puck spoke up. "Lia, it's time for my nap. If anything happens, I'll act according to our contract."

"Uh, what contract?" Subaru asked, confused.

"...right. Forget it," Puck replied, his voice fading as he presumably went to sleep.

Moments later, someone knocked on the door. The giant asked, "For a rat?"

A high-pitched voice responded correctly each time, and the door swung open. Subaru was greeted by the sight of the girl who had stolen Emilia's insignia. She had blonde hair, bright green eyes, and a defiant look on her face.

"You!" Felt yelled, pointing accusingly at Subaru.

Subaru struck a dramatic pose and did his signature introduction, albeit awkwardly in his new body. "Yo! I am Emilia, clueless beyond comparison! Return the insignia or…uh… I'll curse you!"

Felt narrowed her eyes. "You're a liar. You can't do anything to me, PRINCESS."

Subaru raised his hand upwards, pretending to use magic. "Lightning Style: Chidori!"

Silence.

The giant and the girl, each raised an eyebrow. Unimpressed.

"Uh... Kaa—"

Suddenly, an ice spear shot out of nowhere, hitting the ceiling with unbelievable speed. Felt and the giant both looked stunned.

"I should have known better…" the giant said worriedly, taking out a club. "Silver hair, amethyst eyes, and pointy ears…"

Subaru was confused. Was this body a criminal character? Before he could say anything, a seductive female voice spoke from the entrance of the hut.

"Ara~ ara~," the voice cooed. "Are we fighting here? And I thought it was supposed to be a normal deal." A woman stepped into the light, revealing her long black hair, pale skin, and crimson eyes. She wore a revealing outfit that accentuated her curves, and a dangerous smile played on her lips.

"Well, no problem," The woman continued. "I was supposed to kill everyone anyway…"

Before anyone could react, the woman vanished from her spot and reappeared behind the giant, slicing his throat in one swift motion. Blood sprayed, and the giant crumpled to the floor.

"Gramps!" Felt screamed, pulling out a knife, but the woman was too fast. She appeared in front of the girl and sliced her midsection with a fluid motion, leaving her to fall to the ground in pieces.

Subaru was shaking, his mind reeling from the gruesome scene. This game was too realistic! Too much gore!

He backed away, his heart pounding in his chest. "Stay back!" he yelled, though his voice trembled. "I-I'll curse you!"

The woman merely licked her blades, her eyes glinting with sadistic pleasure. She vanished again, reappearing right in front of Subaru.

Before he could react, he felt a sharp pain in his stomach.

'This is…'

He looked down to see his lower half standing while he was falling to the ground.

'...not a game.'

"How magnificent your bowels are!" The woman exclaimed, her voice filled with twisted delight.

Subaru's vision blurred as he lay on the cold, dirty floor. His life flashed before his eyes, and he felt a wave of despair and helplessness.

With that, Subaru Natsuki died.

oOo

"Sheesh, Lia," the figure spoke in a high-pitched voice, grinning slightly. "You nearly gave me a heart failure! Now, are you feeling okay? We still need to find your insignia, remember?"

Subaru gave the cat a blank look. His mind struggled to process the bizarre scene before him.

Then he recalled what had just happened. He was…killed. Everyone died. The memory was vivid and gruesome. He could feel the cold steel slicing through his flesh, the pain searing through him.

With that, he threw up. His body convulsed with each heave, the trauma overwhelming him. The taste of bile burned in his throat. He fell to his knees, gasping for breath.

"Lia! Lia! Are you okay?!" Puck's voice was filled with panic. The little cat darted around in concern.

Subaru was not okay. This wasn't a game. He clearly remembered being sliced in half like a cucumber. Yet, here he was—alive. Alive at the point when he first arrived here.

His heart pounded as the realization set in. Was his wish to be cared for by a silver-haired maiden fulfilled in this way? What an irony. He himself was the maiden now.

The absurdity of the situation almost made him laugh, but it was too much to process. It wasn't a dream. Hallucination was out of question. So…does this mean that what he saw was a vision?

The image of the woman in the loot house flashed in his mind—her sadistic smile, her deadly grace.

She said she was assigned to kill everyone there. So if he avoids going there, the old giant and Felt will surely be killed.

Whatever the reason, he knows that he needs to save that giant and Felt. He can't let anyone die…because of him

"I am okay," he replied. "Let's get our insignia back, Puck."

---

TBC

---

 

New Faces

---

Subaru scratched his butt. It felt soft. Perhaps he had a nice sleep after so many years of his parents' death. Nah, it was pointless to ruin such a good morning thinking about stuff like that.

The bed was really soft too. But his bed was too old and rough. So why? Well, who cares? A late morning sleep after the entire night playing video games on PS7 is just what he needs. This is 2030, after all. No need to wake up so early. Besides, it's not like he has school or work.

He then shifted. Something on his chest moved. Perhaps he really was THERE. To the point where he died due to lack of sunlight and overweight. But last time he checked, he was only 60 kilos—not too much.

He grabbed his chest and pressed. Ugh. That felt good. He moaned.

He continued pressing his chest and moaning in his sleep when he heard someone say—

"Nee-sama, nee-sama, do you think Emilia-sama finally hit puberty?"

"Rem, Rem, I think Emilia-sama finally hit puberty."

Then it hit Subaru. The gender swap, species swap, isekai, and his curse of return by death...

Emilia jolted awake. She looked at the two people standing in front of her, holding hands together and sticking to each other's body symmetrically.

One had pink hair tied into a side bun and a cold, indifferent expression. Her uniform was pristine, with not a single wrinkle. Her eyes were half-lidded, giving her a perpetually sleepy or bored look.

The other had light blue hair styled similarly, with a gentle yet determined expression. She seemed more approachable, but her demeanor was equally professional. Their maid outfits were classic, with frilly aprons and skirts, exuding a kind of old-world charm that clashed hilariously with Subaru's modern sensibilities.

The first thing Emilia says is, "Wow, cute girls in maid outfits? Nice, nice." She nods. "Although I feel no rush of blood like before. Perhaps it's the gender swap?"

Both girls, completely ignoring the fact that Emilia was in front of them, began to say—

"I think Emilia-sama has finally lost it, Rem," The girl with red hair said with a deadpan expression.

"Indeed, Nee-sama. Perhaps it is the stress of the Royal Selection," Rem replied sympathetically.

"Hey, I'm right here, you know!" Emilia exclaimed, waving her hands in front of their faces.

The girl with red hair raised an eyebrow. "Did you have a good sleep, Emilia-sama?"

"Wait?! Did you see—?"

"Your… chest-grabbing performance was quite enlightening,"

Subaru's face turned beet red. "I-I was just… I thought it was a dream!"

"Emilia-sama, it's best not to grab yourself like that. It's unseemly."

Emilia sighed heavily. 'This is so confusing. Why did I end up in this girl's body? And what's with all these…?'

Emilia looked around, trying to gather her thoughts. The room they were in was lavish, with ornate furniture and intricate tapestries. The morning light filtered through the grand windows, casting a warm glow on everything.

"Okay, okay," Emilia said, rubbing her temples. "First things first. What are your names?"

Ram and Rem exchanged a look of concern.

"Emilia-sama, are you feeling well?" Rem asked gently.

Emilia quickly explained, "I've lost a lot of my memories. That includes your names too. I know it sounds strange, but please, can you tell me?"

The twins looked skeptical at first, but then Rem stepped forward. "I am Rem, and this is my sister, Ram."

Ram gave a curt nod. "We serve you here at the mansion, Emilia-sama."

"Thank you, Rem, Ram," Emilia said, trying to sound as sincere as possible. "I appreciate your help. And, um, could you assist me in getting dressed?"

The twins exchanged another look, this one filled with a mixture of disbelief and concern.

"Of course, Emilia-sama," Rem said. "Please follow us."

Emilia followed the twins to a grand dressing room filled with elegant clothes. The awkwardness of the situation was palpable.

"Alright, Emilia-sama," Ram said, picking out a dress. "Let's get you changed."

Emilia gulped. "Um, okay. But, could you… turn around or something?"

Ram raised an eyebrow. "Emilia-sama, we've done this many times before."

"Yeah, but…" Emilia stammered, "I just feel… a bit weird today."

The twins didn't budge. They waited patiently as Emilia reluctantly began to undress.

"Okay, just… make it quick," Emilia said, feeling her cheeks burn. 'But damn! Getting dressed by two cute girls…every shut-in's fantasy!'

Rem helped Emilia into the dress, her hands moving with practiced ease. "This will look lovely on you, Emilia-sama."

"No, no, just normal stuff. Not so frilly."

"Okay, Emilia-sama."

Emilia squirmed, trying not to think too much about the situation. "Thanks, Rem."

"It's Ram,"

"Oh, sorry 'bout that."

Ram adjusted the final details, smoothing out any wrinkles. "There, all done. How do you feel?"

"Like I've just survived the most awkward experience of my life," Emilia muttered.

The twins exchanged a small smile. "You look perfect, Emilia-sama," Rem said softly.

Emilia smiled. "Alright. Let's get on with the day. And, um, thanks for the help."

Subaru began to explore the mansion, marveling at its sheer size. It was gigantic yet eerily empty, the kind of place that made you feel small and insignificant. Long corridors stretched endlessly, decorated with intricate tapestries and grand chandeliers that cast a soft glow on the polished floors. She wandered from room to room, each more opulent than the last. The dressing rooms were filled with luxurious garments, the bathhouse boasted marble tubs and ornate fixtures, the storage rooms were packed with various supplies, and the study was a treasure trove of ancient tomes and elegant furniture.

Despite her growing fatigue, there was so much to explore that Subaru couldn't stop herself. Eventually, she opened a random door, only to find herself in a huge library. Shelves upon shelves of books lined the walls, reaching up to the high ceiling. In the center of the room, perched on a ladder, was a small girl with a striking appearance.

Beatrice, as Subaru would later learn, had long, curly blond hair tied with pink ribbons and wore a pink dress that contrasted with her sharp, blue eyes. She looked down at Subaru with a mix of curiosity and disdain.

"Naive girl, here to give my friend, I suppose?"

"'Naive girl'?" Subaru mused, puzzled. "So this Emilia is supposed to be an idiot or something?"

Beatrice gave her a puzzled look before asking, "What are you talking about, I wonder?"

Subaru, trying to keep her cool, asked, "What's your name?"

The girl's expression turned stern. "You should already know my name, and you should stop asking stupid questions, I suppose."

Subaru sighed. "I've lost some of my memories and—"

Beatrice cut her off, her voice cold. "Don't speak nonsense here and waste my time, or I'll throw you out of the library, I suppose."

Before Subaru could respond, Puck appeared from behind her neck and floated towards Beatrice. The girl immediately beamed and began to cuddle the flying cat.

"Pucky!" she exclaimed with genuine affection.

Puck, equally enthusiastic, replied, "Betty! Long time no see!"

Beatrice nuzzled Puck, her previously stern demeanor melting away. "Pucky, you're as fluffy as ever, I suppose."

Puck purred contentedly. "And you're as cuddly as always, Betty."

Watching this bizarrely adorable exchange, Subaru felt an odd mix of amusement and confusion. Before she could voice her thoughts, Beatrice approached her and touched her hand. Instantly, an excruciating pain surged through her body, starting from her hand and radiating outward. It felt as if her very essence was being probed and dissected. She fell to her knees, clutching her head tightly.

"What did you do?" Subaru asked furiously, her voice trembling from the pain.

Beatrice frowned, her previous warmth replaced with a clinical curiosity. "You have a smell about you, and I had a hunch, I suppose."

Subaru's vision blurred as she struggled to comprehend the sensation. "What smell? What are you talking about?"

Beatrice was about to elaborate when a voice from the hallway interrupted them. It was one of the twins, Ram, calling out, "The lord of the mansion has returned, and it's time for lunch."

Puck, still floating near Beatrice, gave Subaru a sympathetic look. "We can discuss your memory loss with Roswaal. He might know what's going on."

Subaru shuddered. She hadn't exactly lost her memories; instead, she was not Emilia at all. What if this Roswaal saw through her deception?

As they left the library, Beatrice gave Puck one last affectionate squeeze. "See you later, Pucky. Don't be a stranger, I suppose."

Puck winked at her. "Wouldn't dream of it, Betty."

With the echoes of their nicknames lingering in the air, Subaru followed the twins and Puck down the long corridors. The silence was heavy, each step echoing ominously, amplifying her anxiety. She glanced out the windows, noting the pristine gardens and the bright, sunny sky—such a stark contrast to her turbulent thoughts. The enormity of the mansion now felt more like a looming presence than an exciting adventure, a reminder of how far she was from everything she knew.

Approaching the main hall, Subaru took a deep breath. She had nothing to lose... right?

---

TBC

Villagers

---

In the grand hall of the Council of the Great Sage, an aura of solemnity filled the air. Ornate tapestries depicting the history of Lugnica adorned the walls, and a massive chandelier cast a warm, golden light over the room. Seated around a long, polished table were the councilmen, a group of venerable old men whose wisdom and experience were unparalleled in the kingdom. Reinhard van Astrea, the Sword Saint, stood before them, his posture straight and respectful.

Councilman Noa, a man with a long white beard and piercing blue eyes, was the first to speak. "Sir Reinhard, we have summoned you here today to discuss the state of peace and order in the capital. How are things faring under your watch?"

Reinhard inclined his head slightly. "The capital remains secure, Councilman Noa. Crime rates are at an all-time low, and our patrols are diligent. The people can go about their daily lives without fear."

Councilman Garf, a stout man with a serious expression, nodded approvingly. "Your efforts are commendable, Sword Saint. However, there is another matter we must discuss. It has come to our attention that you were seen with the King candidate Emilia, the half-elf, in the slums. Can you explain this?"

Reinhard's expression became more guarded, but he knew he had to answer. "Indeed, I was with Lady Emilia. She had lost her insignia, and we were searching for it."

Councilman Noa leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. "Lost her insignia? In the slums? That seems rather careless for a King candidate. What exactly transpired?"

Reinhard took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. "Lady Emilia was deeply concerned about the loss of her insignia. It is a vital symbol of her candidacy, as you know. In her desperation, she ventured into the slums, fearing that it had been stolen or misplaced there."

Councilman Garf frowned. "And how did you come to be involved?"

"She requested my assistance," Reinhard replied. "Given the importance of the insignia, I could not refuse."

The councilmen exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable. Councilman Noa spoke again, his tone more probing. "And what about the incident with the old woman? We've heard troubling reports."

Reinhard hesitated, then decided that honesty was the best course. "Lady Emilia believed that a woman in the slums, whom she suspected to be the infamous Elsa the Bowel Hunter in disguise, was a threat. She feared that this woman would harm those around her."

Councilman Garf's eyes widened slightly. "The Bowel Hunter? That is a grave accusation. Was there any truth to her suspicions?"

Reinhard shook his head. "It appears she was mistaken. The woman was not who Lady Emilia thought she was. It seems... she may have been imagining things."

A murmur ran through the council. Councilman Noa stroked his beard thoughtfully. "Imagining things, you say? That is quite concerning."

Reinhard could sense where this was leading. "Lady Emilia was under a great deal of stress. The loss of the insignia, coupled with the pressures of her candidacy, could have led to her misjudgment."

The councilmen conferred in hushed tones for a moment before Councilman Garf spoke again. "If Lady Emilia's mental state is indeed fragile, it raises questions about her suitability for the throne. Should she exhibit further signs of instability, we must consider the ramifications for the kingdom."

Reinhard's heart sank. "Lady Emilia is a kind and capable leader. She has the potential to bring great change to Lugnica. I urge you to consider her merits alongside any concerns."

Councilman Noa nodded slowly. "Your righteousness is noted, Sword Saint. However, we must act in the best interest of the kingdom. We will continue to observe her closely. Should she demonstrate any further signs of mental instability, we will have no choice but to reconsider her candidacy."

Reinhard bowed his head in acknowledgment. "I understand, Councilmen. Thank you for your time and consideration."

As he left the grand hall, Reinhard couldn't shake the feeling of unease that settled in his chest. The fate of the kingdom hung in the balance, and he could only hope that Lady Emilia would find the strength to prove her worthiness beyond any doubt.

o—O—o

Subaru emerged from the bathroom, her skin flushed and dewy from the hot shower. The sensation of the warm water cascading over her new body was still a novelty she relished. She couldn't help but grin, giving her crotch a playful pat, giggling perversely. The whole experience of being in a female body was bizarre yet amusing.

Just then, Ram appeared in the hallway, her expression as stern as ever. "Were you groping your own privates, Emilia-sama?" she asked, her voice dripping with sarcasm.

Subaru blinked, then burst into laughter. "Seriously? That's the first thing you say to me?"

Ram crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow. "Well, it's not every day we see our lady fondling herself in the hallway."

"Touché," Subaru admitted, smirking. "But you know, these are just too irresistible."

"Nee-sama, nee-sama," Rem appeared beside her sister, eyes wide. "I think Emilia-sama has gone mad."

"Rem, Rem," Ram responded, shaking her head. "Indeed, Emilia-sama has lost it."

"Hey, hey!" Subaru protested, throwing her hands up in mock indignation. "I'm right here! And for the record, I'm not mad. Just... curious."

Ram sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose. "Curious or not, please conduct yourself with more decorum, Emilia-sama. We have a reputation to uphold."

"Yeah, yeah, Miss Prim and Proper," Subaru teased, rolling her eyes. "Let's get some breakfast. I'm starving."

The dining room was filled with the mouth-watering aromas of freshly baked bread and sizzling bacon. The table was laden with an array of dishes: fluffy scrambled eggs, juicy sausages, golden pancakes, and an assortment of fruits. Subaru's stomach growled in anticipation.

Rosewall, with his eccentric attire and ever-present smirk, sat at the head of the table. His mismatched eyes gleamed with amusement as he observed Subaru.

"Good mooorning, Emilia-samaaaa," he greeted, his voice lilting. "I trust you had a pleasant shoooower?"

Subaru gave him a cheeky grin. "The best, thanks. And by the way, you're quite the clown. Entertain us while we eat, will you?"

Rosewall chuckled, shaking his head. "Always the joker, I see. But on a moooore serious note, I have a task for you tooooday."

Subaru raised an eyebrow, her fork halfway to her mouth. "Oh? What's that?"

"I'd like you to visit the village and build a stroooonger relatiooonship with the civiliaaaans," Rosewall said, his tone becoming more serious.

Subaru frowned, clearly reluctant. "Why do I need to do that? Can't we just send Rem or Ram?"

Puck, who was floating lazily by her side, chimed in. "Lia, it's a good idea. You've been cooped up in this mansion for too long. It'll do you good to get some fresh air and meet the people."

'But—"

"Naive Girl," Beatrice interjected. "If you go away, I'll get some time to spend with my best friend!" Puck giggled as she cuddled him.

Subaru sighed, clearly not thrilled with the idea. "Fine, fine. I'll go."

After finishing her breakfast, Subaru prepared to leave for the village, accompanied by Rem. She pulled her pointy-eared hoodie over her head, trying to avoid drawing too much attention.

"Hey, Rem," she said as they neared the village. "I…uh…want to interact with the villagers by myself."

Rem give her a questioning look.

"Basically, I want you to stay away from me so that I…uh…"

"Emilia-sama," Rem said, her voice gentle but firm, "you shouldn't be alone. Let me stay with you."

"I'll be fine, Rem," Subaru insisted, waving her off. "Just do the shopping by yourself. I'll stay out of trouble, I promise."

Reluctantly, Rem nodded and went on her way. Subaru, meanwhile, found a huge Banyan tree and hid behind it, avoiding the prying eyes of the villagers. She felt a pang of discomfort as she watched happy families going about their day.

The village was bustling with activity. It was a picturesque place, with cobblestone streets winding between quaint cottages. Flower boxes adorned windowsills, and the sound of children playing mingled with the chatter of adults. Vendors called out their wares, and the aroma of freshly baked goods filled the air. It was idyllic, the kind of place that felt like it was plucked from a fairy tale.

Subaru felt a pang of envy and sorrow. The sight of a boy playing with lambs, his father and mother tending to the cows nearby, brought a flood of painful memories. Subaru's mind drifted back to her life as Subaru Natsuki. Her parents had died in a car accident, and it was all her fault. She had distracted her father, who was driving, causing the fatal crash. She was so unlucky that she did not die. The guilt had haunted her ever since.

A wave of panic washed over her, making it hard to breathe. Her chest felt heavy—not from her new, ample bosom, but from the crushing weight of her past. The suffocation was unbearable, and her vision blurred as tears welled up in her eyes. "Can't…b-breathe…" She clutched her throat, trying to breathe.

"Hey!" A voice snapped her out of her panic attack. Subaru's eyes widened, startled, and turned to see a little blonde girl with wide, curious eyes. "Are you okay, nee-san?"

"I-I'm fine," Subaru stuttered, still trying not to lose her consciousness and to compose herself. "What's your name?"

"I'm Petra!" the girl chirped, smiling brightly.

Subaru did her best to hide her discomfort about the whole panic attack episode. Her breathing had returned to normal, but the residual tightness in her chest lingered. She noticed the children around her were curious, yet nervous about her presence. It wasn't surprising—silver-haired half-elves weren't exactly viewed favourably in Lugnica.

"Is everything okay, Miss?" one of the older boys asked, his wide eyes filled with concern.

Subaru forced a smile. "Yes, I'm fine. Just had a little scare, that's all."

The children exchanged uncertain glances, their curiosity piqued by her unusual appearance. However, despite their initial hesitation, they began to warm up to her. One brave little girl, her hair tied up in pigtails, stepped forward.

"Your hair is so pretty," she said, her voice filled with awe. "Like moonlight!"

Subaru chuckled softly, genuinely touched. "Thank you. What's your name?"

"Clara," the girl replied, smiling shyly.

"Well, Clara, and everyone else," Subaru said, addressing the group, "how about we play a game?"

The children's eyes lit up with excitement. Slowly but surely, Subaru began to feel more at ease. The initial awkwardness faded as they started to play. Laughter echoed around them as they chased each other and played simple games.

"You can call me Lia-nee-chan," Subaru said, her heart warming at the sound of their giggles.

"Lia-nee-chan! Lia-nee-chan!" the children chanted, their voices a joyful chorus.

"Alright, everyone, let's start with some exercises!" Subaru announced, clapping her hands together. "We need to get those muscles moving!"

The children gathered around her, eager to follow her lead. Subaru started with some basic stretches, demonstrating each move with exaggerated gestures to keep the kids entertained.

"Reach for the sky!" she instructed, lifting her arms high above her head. "Now, touch your toes!"

The children giggled as they tried to mimic her movements, some more successfully than others. Subaru couldn't help but laugh along with them, the exercise already helping to lift her spirits.

"Let's do some jumping jacks!" Subaru said, bouncing up and down. "One, two, three, four!"

The kids followed her lead, their laughter echoing through the village square. It was a simple activity, but it brought a sense of normalcy and joy that Subaru desperately needed.

"Now, who here has a special talent?" Subaru asked, looking around at the group. "Anyone want to show off their skills?"

One boy raised his hand shyly. "I can do a handstand."

"That's amazing!" Subaru exclaimed. "Show us!"

The boy grinned and flipped himself upside down, balancing on his hands with surprising ease. The other children clapped and cheered, and Subaru joined in enthusiastically.

"Great job! Anyone else?" she asked.

A little girl stepped forward, holding a piece of string. "I can do a cat's cradle."

Subaru watched as the girl deftly manipulated the string into intricate patterns, her fingers moving with practiced precision. "That's fantastic! You're all so talented."

As they continued to play and show off their skills, Subaru made a point to ask each child about their future goals.

"What do you want to be when you grow up?" she asked a boy who had just shown off his impressive cartwheel.

"I want to be a knight!" he declared, puffing out his chest proudly.

"That's a noble dream," Subaru said, nodding. "Keep working hard and you might just achieve it."

She turned to another girl who was braiding flowers into a crown. "And what about you?"

"I want to be a gardener, like my mama," the girl said with a shy smile.

"That's wonderful," Subaru replied warmly. "Gardens bring so much beauty into the world."

The conversations continued, each child's dream a precious glimpse into their future. Subaru felt a growing sense of connection with these children, their innocence and optimism a balm for her troubled heart.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the village, Subaru led the children in a final series of fun exercises. They stretched their arms and legs, hopped around, and finally, Subaru had them strike a triumphant pose.

"Victory...!" she shouted, pumping her fist in the air.

"Victory!" the children echoed, mimicking her pose with enthusiastic grins.

Time flew by, and the twilight sky painted the village in hues of orange and pink. The sounds of the villagers winding down their day mixed with the children's laughter. Rem approached, her expression softening as she watched Subaru interact with the kids.

"Emilia-sama," Rem called gently, "it's time for us to return."

The children's faces fell, their disappointment evident. Subaru quickly crouched down to their level, her eyes sparkling with warmth.

"Don't worry," she reassured them. "I'll come back again. We'll have more fun next time, I promise."

The children reluctantly let her go, waving and calling out their goodbyes as Subaru and Rem began to walk back to the mansion.

As Subaru and Rem were making their way back to the mansion, the sounds of hurried footsteps and excited chatter reached their ears. Turning around, Subaru saw the group of children running towards them, their faces lit up with urgency. In their arms, they carried a small, bald puppy. Its fur had been patchy and scruffy, and it looked injured and in pain.

"Lia-nee-chan! Lia-nee-chan!" Clara called out, her eyes wide with worry. "We found this puppy in the woods! It's hurt really bad. Can you help it? We heard you can heal people!"

Subaru's heart went out to the little creature, but she felt a pang of anxiety. Healing magic wasn't her forte. She knelt down to get a closer look at the puppy, whose big, soulful eyes stared up at her, full of pain and confusion.

"Uh, well," Subaru stammered, scratching her head awkwardly. "I'm really sorry, but I can't heal anyone right now because I'm...uh...sick?"

The children looked crestfallen, their hopeful expressions fading. Just then, Rem stepped forward, her gentle demeanor calming the situation.

"I can help the puppy," Rem said softly, kneeling beside Subaru. "I have healing magic."

The children's faces brightened with renewed hope. Rem extended her hands over the puppy, her fingers glowing with a soft, blue light. Subaru watched in awe as Rem's healing magic began to work. The puppy's wounds started to close, its whimpers of pain quieting down.

Subaru, feeling a surge of affection for the little creature, gently petted its head. "There you go, little guy. You're going to be okay."

However, the puppy, still disoriented and scared, suddenly snapped its jaws and bit down on Subaru's arm. She yelped in pain and surprise, quickly pulling her hand back.

"Ouch! Hey, that hurt!" Subaru exclaimed, rubbing her arm.

Rem looked at her with concern. "Let me heal that for you, Emilia-sama."

Subaru nodded, wincing as Rem's magic enveloped her arm, soothing the pain and closing the bite marks. "Thanks, Rem. I guess the little guy was just scared."

The children, relieved to see the puppy getting better, gathered around Subaru and Rem with wide eyes and relieved smiles.

"Thank you, Lia-nee-chan! Thank you, Rem-san!" Clara said, her face beaming with gratitude.

Subaru laughed, though still rubbing her arm where the puppy had bitten her. "No problem, Clara. Just make sure to be gentle with him, okay? He's been through a lot."

One of the older boys, who had been holding the puppy, cradled it carefully. "We'll take good care of him, Lia-nee-chan. We promise."

Rem finished her healing spell and stood up, dusting off her skirt. "He should be fine now, but keep an eye on him and make sure he gets plenty of rest and good food."

Subaru and Rem resumed their walk back to the mansion, but Subaru couldn't help but glance back at the children and the puppy, her heart swelling with a mix of emotions. The village had shown her a sense of community and warmth she hadn't felt in a long time.

The road back was lined with lush green trees, their leaves rustling gently in the evening breeze. The setting sun cast long shadows across the path, creating a picturesque scene that felt almost magical. Birds chirped softly, returning to their nests for the night, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers.

"Rem," Subaru said, breaking the comfortable silence. "Do you think... I mean, am I really making a difference here?"

Rem looked at her with a gentle smile. "You are, Lia-sama. The villagers are starting to see you for who you truly are, beyond the prejudices. And the children adore you."

Subaru smiled, feeling a warmth spread through her chest. "Thank you, Rem. That means a lot."

As they approached the mansion, its grand structure looming ahead, Subaru felt a sense of accomplishment. The day's events had been a small step, but an important one in building relationships with the villagers and proving her worth.

Upon entering the mansion, Subaru felt a renewed sense of purpose. She knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but with the support of her friends and the determination she had found within herself, she felt ready to face whatever came next. She was no longer just Subaru Natsuki, the lost and broken boy from another world. She was Emilia, a candidate for the throne, and she was ready to fight for her future.

---

TBC