Forming objectives.
Inside the mansion, my eyes explore every corner with astonishment. It is undoubtedly the most opulent and luxurious thing I have ever witnessed in my entire life. Although I'm not personally a fan of the Medieval style, I can appreciate the beauty and splendor that this mansion radiates.
Every step I take on the polished marble floor makes me feel like I'm walking on a mirror, my reflection barely visible on its shiny surface.
The space around me seems infinite, as if I were immersed in a world of unimaginable dimensions. In comparison, the largest houses I've seen would appear tiny and modest.
The idea of the immensity of this place overwhelms me, and I can't help but think of the monumental task it would be to keep it clean and orderly. Just imagining it sends a shiver down my spine.
Despite its impressive magnificence, I can't help but feel a sense of horror at the thought of living in such a vast and disproportionate place. I much prefer a cozy and more modestly sized house, where warmth and intimacy can flourish. Here, one could easily accommodate an entire village if they wished, and the idea of such grandeur is overwhelming.
"This is... huge," I mutter, looking around with my mouth agape.
I no longer want to work in the mansion. I refuse to clean all of this.
I could dedicate myself to the kitchen; I consider myself a good cook, so that wouldn't be bad. Or I could help with the accounts and other things.
I refuse to clean this. If I start cleaning all of this, it's certain that I'll die more than once.
While I reject the idea in my head, both come to a sudden stop.
"We've arrived," Rem opens the doors and bows to let us pass.
Emilia enters without any fear, but I walk in, looking directly into that person's eyes.
"Good morning, thank you very much for receiving me," I bow to Roswaal.
Roswaal looks at me for a second and then smiles again.
"Well, well! Wha~~at good ma~~anners!" Roswaal says with satisfaction. "I thought you ca~~ame from the lo~~ower districts."
I look into Ram's eyes for a few seconds; she sees me and smiles with satisfaction. It must have been her who told him something like that.
"No, I don't come from that place."
"Co~~me, sit down for a me~~al, although I'd like to kno~~w your name first."
I nod my head, and this time, unlike bowing, I look him straight in the eyes. All I do is place my palm on my chest and tilt my head slightly.
"My name is Marco Luz. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
I turn my head to Beatrice, who was ignoring me from the start while talking to Puck. Her appearance is a bit hard to explain; if I see her, I can say she looks like a human and yet not. Her eyes are undoubtedly what indicate that she's not human—large and with butterfly-shaped pupils, they give me a bit of unease. At the same time, her tender appearance is like that of a doll.
"Since you've introdu~~ced yourself, I must do the same," Roswaal then changes his posture to a straight one, still seated; he simply speaks. "I'm the owne~~r of this mansion, Roswaal L. Mathers."
Roswaal proceeds to introduce me to Ram and Rem, saying they are his employees. He also introduces Beatrice because she showed no signs of wanting to do it herself.
"Hmpf! If it weren't for Pucky being here, I would have left a long time ago in fact," Beatrice pouts before continuing to talk with Puck.
Roswaal then gestures for me to sit. Once I'm seated, he speaks again.
"You've done us an immense favor; if that insignia had been lost, everything would have been ruined. That's why I personally thank you."
Ugh, his way of speaking is the most annoying thing I've heard in my entire life. I want to give him a good punch in the face just for speaking like that.
"Is that insignia so important?" I look directly at Emilia.
"Yes, it's very important to us," Emilia takes out the insignia to show how the crystal in it lights up in red.
"As you can see, the rea~son it lights up is beca~~use Miss Emilia is qualified for the thro~~ne of Lugunica. Witho~~ut the insignia, she wouldn't be able to participate in the selection."
Roswaal looks at me, judging my reaction to what he said.
I try to calm my mind; after all, I have to carefully think about everything I'm going to say. If I say something wrong, my life could be in danger.
"So yes, it's of utmost importance," I look at Emilia seriously, "What I did was no small feat."
Emilia smiles at me, a grateful expression on her face.
"It wasn't, which is why I thank you from the bottom of my heart," Emilia places her hands on her chest.
"I can't le~~ave you witho~~ut a reward for everything you've done, so if there's some~~thing I can do for you, I'd like you to te~~ll me," Roswaal adds.
Roswaal's gaze changes; this might be a point that's already written in the book of wisdom. If I make a mistake, he might incite Rem to torture me to trigger a reset.
I remain silent, aware that any word I utter at this moment could have significant consequences. I carefully watch Roswaal's expression, trying to decipher his thoughts. His smile, though friendly in appearance, doesn't reveal his true intentions.
Finally, I decide to speak, choosing my words carefully before doing so:
"Mr. Roswaal, although I'm aware of my position as a newcomer to your mansion, I have two proposals I'd like to put forward."
I observe Roswaal's reaction, hoping for some indication of acceptance or disapproval. My mind races, analyzing the possible consequences of my words.
"Oh, my! What propo~~sals could the guest have?" Thankfully, he responds with a smile.
My two proposals. Right now, it depends on whether they can believe that I come from another world. Puck is here, so I have a card in my favor. Right now, there are only two things I can take.
"Firstly, I have nowhere to live. At this moment, I am completely without a home or money, so," I glance at Ram for a moment, "I would like to work in this place, but with the possibility of a change in position."
"That's not a reward. Are you sure that's a request you want?" Emilia looks at me concerned.
"A change in position?" Roswaal asks.
The atmosphere becomes tense as I await Roswaal and the others' reaction. My proposal for a change in position seems to have caught their attention. I look at Emilia, who displays concern in her gaze, and briefly nod to convey that I know what I'm doing.
"Mr. Roswaal, I know this is an unusual request, but I would like to propose an opportunity for advancement within this mansion. I wish to have the chance to become a trusted collaborator, someone who can contribute significantly to important projects and decisions."
With caution, I place my mobile phone on the table, seeking to generate intrigue and curiosity among those present. The device is a symbolic representation of my unique skills and knowledge from my previous world.
"This object, my mobile phone, is not just a simple technological device. It contains an endless source of information and knowledge that could prove valuable to the mansion. With my experience and abilities, I can offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to various challenges."
"I don't see how investing in you leads to that," he responds quickly.
While Roswaal shows skepticism towards my proposal, I seize the opportunity to further elaborate on my explanation and persuade him even more.
"Mr. Roswaal, I understand your concern. My expertise in different fields and the business opportunities it offers can open new doors to expand the resources and possibilities of this place."
I strategically pause to emphasize my next words.
"I can introduce innovative technologies that optimize efficiency and productivity in various areas. From automating repetitive tasks to implementing advanced management systems, my knowledge can help reduce costs, maximize resources, and generate higher revenues."
As I speak, I notice that Puck has become more attentive to the conversation, which gives me some satisfaction, seeing that my strategy is working. I continue with my argument.
"Furthermore, I have an entrepreneurial vision and the ability to identify promising business opportunities. We can explore new markets, expand the mansion's activities, and diversify our sources of income. This will allow us not only to gain considerable financial profits but also to increase our influence and power in this world."
At the moment Roswaal seems about to speak, I signal Emilia, who calls Puck. Beatrice, upon seeing Puck's attentiveness, also pays close attention with an expression of annoyance.
"Puck," Emilia looks at Puck with a serious expression, "Could you judge whether what Marco is saying is true or not?"
Puck gazes at Emilia for a moment and then smiles.
"Yes! I can't say for sure whether it's true or not," Puck then changes his attire to something resembling a detective's, "but I can tell if your body reacts to it; you can't fool the body, so it's quite accurate."
Silence fills the room as my words hang in the air. All eyes are fixed on me, awaiting a convincing and coherent explanation. I feel the need to convey my truth with complete sincerity and conviction.
"I understand that what I'm about to say may sound incredible and hard to believe. But I assure you that what I'm saying is the truth. I'm not from this world; I come from a place completely different from what you know. A world filled with technological advancements and knowledge that could change the reality in which we live."
My words flow calmly but firmly as I try to maintain everyone's attention and interest.
"During my time here, I promise to adapt and understand the dynamics of this world. But also, I'm here to share my skills and knowledge with you. We can leverage my expertise in fields like technology, business, and innovation to take the mansion to new heights. We can achieve things that previously seemed unattainable."
As I finish my explanation, I fall silent, awaiting the reactions and words of those to whom I've revealed my origin. I'm aware that my words can trigger various emotions and reactions, and I'm prepared to face any challenges that arise.
"That's... true," Puck says slowly, indicating that even he was surprised by that revelation.
Puck's words capture the attention of everyone in the room, including Beatrice, who until now seemed distracted. Before anyone can speak, I decide to continue and support my claims.
"Incredible or not, here I am. I have tangible evidence of my origin distinct from this world. In addition to my attire, which is impossible to manufacture here, like my shoes, trousers, and jacket, I also possess this device."
I point to the mobile phone on the table, making sure everyone notices it. Now that I have their full attention, it's time to impress them even more.
"This is a device from my world," I turn on the mobile and search for a specific video I recorded during my visit to Kyoto and the purchase of this device.
The video plays moving images, showing everyday life on the bustling streets of a modern city. You can see cars moving, people walking briskly, tall buildings, and advanced technology. The picture and sound quality of the video are astonishing for those who have only known a world between medieval and fiction.
As the video progresses, I can notice expressions of astonishment and fascination on the faces of Roswaal, Emilia, Rem, and Beatrice. Their eyes fill with curiosity and admiration at the wonders unfolding on the screen.
"This is just a small glimpse of the wonders that exist in my world. Technology, scientific advancements, instant communication... These are just a few examples of what we could implement here. We can transform the mansion and its surroundings into something unlike anything seen before, combining the beauty of your world with the advancements of mine."
My voice sounds enthusiastic and convincing, conveying my vision of a prosperous and exciting future for everyone.
"I offer you my knowledge and skills to carry out projects that will not only generate wealth but also improve the quality of life for everyone in this mansion. We can create opportunities, attract investments, and become a reference in this world. Where I come from is not important; what matters is what I came to offer."
I conclude my presentation, letting my words and the video speak for themselves. Now, I eagerly await the reactions and comments of those listening, hoping they see the potential and opportunities that lie ahead of us.
Each of them tries to verify if it's a hoax. They all hold the phone and infuse mana into it, except for Rem.
"It's impossible for such an advanced device, well-crafted and valuable clothing, someone with my appearance who doesn't know how to read or write the language of this place, to simply appear without a background or without coming from a noble family."
Everyone looks at Puck again to confirm, and he nods in agreement with what I say.
Rem's gaze remains piercing, and despite what I say, her fury is almost palpable.
Beatrice, for the first time, breaks her silence and directs her words towards me with incredulity in her voice.
"It's impossible; indeed, magic of such magnitude cannot happen without a reason. It requires a power that only a few people possess, I suppose."
Her words represent a challenge, a test I must overcome without directly mentioning my relationship with Satella. I must make Puck understand it without revealing too much. I know his instinct will be to conceal it and ask me about it later.
"First and foremost, I want to make it clear that I am not your enemy. My intentions are sincere, and I wish for you to invest in me so that we can all benefit," I direct my gaze at Puck, seeking his complicity, "I believe my arrival in this world is related to a curse."
I can't mention Satella directly, so I must express it vaguely and cautiously.
"Before coming here, I saw something, a shadow that I can barely remember. After that, I just appeared in the capital of Lugunica. I realized my situation when a knight was shaking me."
I proceed to recount all the events that happened before my encounter with Emilia, omitting details about myself. My narrative flows in a torrent of words, revealing every step I took and every challenge I faced since arriving in this world.
At that moment, Emilia looks at me with evident concern in her eyes.
"At first, I thought it was a trick to distract me while Felt robbed me," Emilia's expression transforms into sadness as she recalls the incident, "I saw you and believed you needed help, but before I could approach, Felt snatched the insignia, and I had to chase her."
Emilia's revelation clarifies both of their cautious behavior. My first encounter with Emilia was while I lay on the ground, explaining why I couldn't see Felt at that moment.
The air is charged with emotions and expectant looks. Now, I must wait for my words to resonate with each of them and awaken their trust and curiosity.
"If you have any questions, I'm all ears. I would like everyone to trust me, but first, we have to make the deal. If I tell you everything, I'm the one at a disadvantage."
Roswaal looks at me satisfied, as if he has forced himself to accept my words. Perhaps he believes it, or perhaps not, but if his book of wisdom says he has to support me, then he will.
"It's impre~~ssive that something like this has ha~~ppened to you," Roswaal rubs his hands lightly, "The spirit cannot li~~e, so what you say is surely true."
I smile broadly, thinking that Roswaal is going to accept me.
"I still don't understand why I should invest," Roswaal gives an indifferent smile, "What we saw was impressive, but it's different seeing it from that... 'Cellphone'? I can't see how supporting you will help us. After all, these are things from your... world."
Emilia tries to speak up in my support, but Roswaal stops her with a look. Beatrice simply limits herself to observe the phone as if she wants to tinker with it. Rem and Ram are just behind Roswaal, fully trusting in whatever he is going to say.
Now, what I'm going to say will change their perception.
"It's evident that I have limitations in certain aspects. My homeland lacks mana, so magic is non-existent, although it may surprise you."
Once again, I point to my phone to get their attention.
"We have experienced over 200,000 years of development without relying on magic. We have advanced by understanding nature and harnessing it to our advantage. Let me repeat: we have no magic, but we have created and invented ways to make our lives easier and progress as a society. Our civilization has achieved technological advancements beyond your imagination. What you see in the video are automobiles, vehicles that move without the need for an animal. The buildings you see are imposing, reaching heights that defy the limits of the sky."
I change the video on my phone and show the launch of a SpaceX space probe.
"Our civilization has reached the moon, gazed at the stars from unimaginable perspectives, and achieved feats that transcend imagination."
I place my hand on my chest, showing sincerity and conviction.
"I, Marco Luz, assure you that investing in me benefits you in every aspect. Betting on me means gaining access to all the knowledge and skills I possess. It won't be an easy path, but I am confident that my abilities will be of great use to everyone."
Silence fills the room, laden with anticipation. Each of them processes my words, considering the possibilities and benefits I could bring.
"While interacting with Emilia, I could perceive how people inexplicably fear her despite being a candidate," Emilia sighs, lowering her head, clearly showing the weight of those words on her.
"If there are other candidates, I'm sure we are at a disadvantage," I exclaim with determination, clenching my fist tightly.
Now it's time to deliver the final blow.
"My knowledge is not mere empty words. I possess extensive knowledge in politics, mathematics, physics, biology, and chemistry. Although I may not know how to read or write, I can learn. I can perform calculations and improve efficiency. My skills are diverse and innovative," I emphasize, raising my chest with pride.
I want to demonstrate that I am not a simple puppet to be used, nor am I someone without ambitions or goals, and certainly not just a mere worker.
I'm prepared to go even further.
With unwavering determination, I look at everyone, using my deep voice to deliver my final words.
"If you believe I will be someone who causes harm, I will leave immediately. If you don't trust me, this is pointless," I assert, leaving a brief moment of silence.
If they don't accept me, I'll just ask for enough money to live for a few months, start on my own, and create things by myself.
Emilia appears to react to those words, but I gently stop her with my hand.
"I'm not someone who gives up easily. I say it sincerely. I'm not your enemy. I can see Emilia's potential, and I intend to bet on it, even if the odds are against us, even if people discriminate against her."
My words resonate in the room, wrapped in a blend of bravery and determination. Time momentarily stands still, allowing my words to settle in their hearts and show them my true commitment. Now, all that's left is to await their response and trust that my conviction has been enough to earn their trust.
Emilia looks at me with wide eyes, her gaze, her sweet gaze seemed to want me to stay.
"I will do everything in my power to support Emilia. I, Marco Luz, will use all the resources at my disposal to back her. Why? Because I clearly see her potential. I'm not someone who acts without reason."
It has already cost me enough; if I'm going to bet on her, I must give it my all.
"Although I am unfamiliar with this world right now, I have the ability to judge accurately. Emilia's potential is truly limitless. I will make it a reality because my name is Marco Luz. I will place Emilia on the throne and use everything at my disposal to achieve it."
With an open gesture, I display my bare hands to them, symbolizing my commitment and total dedication.
"That's all I have to say," I conclude, leaving a brief moment of silence for my words to settle in the room.
Emilia looks at me with eyes filled with vulnerability. My words seem to have had a profound impact on her, not only hurting her but also instilling hope. After all, I'm a complete stranger assuring her that I see her potential and am willing to work for it.
Ram and Rem watch me in disbelief at what I've just declared. However, Roswaal seems satisfied, as if he already knew this moment would come.
"Betting on you, you say..." Roswaal closes his eyes and nods contentedly. "You're right about one thing; the odds are not in our favor."
Roswaal rises from his seat and approaches me in silence, not uttering a word until he stands face to face with me. Without fear, I stand up and meet his gaze directly.
"It's entirely extraordinary that you come from another world, but you have spoken sincerely at all times, so I can only believe in you," Roswaal says as he extends his hand and reveals a greedy smile. "If you truly come from ano~~ther world, I cannot let this opportunity pass. You're like a mysterious card that I hope brings many pleasant surprises with it."
Roswaal doesn't seem entirely impressed. Perhaps it's something he already knew or encountered a similar situation in the past. If he approves, then there should be no issue. My speech was more about hinting that I can do more than just be a servant.
I gaze at Roswaal with a similar smile on my face. I have no intention of stopping, running away, or falling into a trap.
With determination, I firmly shake Roswaal's hand, sealing our agreement.
"You will see... This is the right choice," I assert with conviction.
At the handshake, Emilia's face lights up with an expression of joy. Her ears perk up, and her eyes shine like precious amethyst gems, reflecting the hope and trust she places in our future together. In contrast, Rem's expression seems to wane, and her eyes glare at me with anger, piercing through me.
"I'm willing to reveal everything, but first, promise me one thing," I tell Roswaal, looking him straight in the eyes.
Roswaal gazes at me in confusion, waiting to hear what I need him to promise.
"You see, I'm a bit paranoid, so I'd like you, in front of everyone, to promise me that none of your property will harm me with ill intentions."
Now I have the opportunity to secure things, albeit somewhat distrustfully. Sooner or later, I will earn their trust.
"I'm not an evil person, but you must understand that you are also strangers to me," I add, inclining my head sincerely. "I don't want to be rude, but if you can assure me that no one under your employment will attack me, I'll feel more at ease."
Roswaal's gaze remains unchanged, his expression remaining steady, completely satisfied with my words.
At that moment, Rem tries to say something, but Ram stops her, making it clear that they must respect my request.
Then, Roswaal responds with a serious tone, devoid of his characteristic style of speech.
"I, Roswaal L. Mathers, make this promise to you here and now. As long as you do not pose a threat to us, no one in my employ on this day will cause you any harm."
Roswaal looks at Rem and Ram, ensuring that they are also included in this promise.
"This includes my workers," he adds.
Rem and Ram, unable to refuse, bow towards me, implicitly accepting the promise and demonstrating their submission to my request.
"Yes, Lord Roswaal, we promise not to commit an act against this person's life within your boundaries," they both say in unison.
I did it! I'm not sure how effective it will be, but in this world, promises to mean more than just words. Roswaal's words were perfect, and this way, Rem will be at ease knowing she won't be compelled to attack.
Or so I hope.
"I also promise not to attack anyone who doesn't pose a threat to my life. I swear it by my name."
After establishing the promises and calming the atmosphere, I sit back down with everyone. It's time to address the most important issues and answer any questions they may have.
"If you have any questions, anything you wish to know, as long as I can answer it, I will do so with the utmost honesty, whether Puck is present or not," I tell them, trying to convey confidence and composure.
With more confidence, everyone begins to ask questions, launching them at me like an avalanche. I feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of inquiries, but I try to maintain my composure and answer to the best of my ability.
"Please, have patience. There is enough time to talk and address all the questions," I request, attempting to reassure them.
Emilia looks me directly in the eyes, and I notice that her expression is no longer one of distrust but of happiness and curiosity. I can tell because every time she's happy, she intertwines her hands. This gives me confidence that we are moving in the right direction and that my presence and words are making a positive impact on her.
"What is your world like? I could see all of that, but there's much I don't understand."
Everyone gazes at me with curiosity, as if I were some strange object to investigate.
"In my world, there are only humans. We number over eight billion people on my planet, called Earth. Throughout our history, we have gone through various stages of development. Currently, we are in the modern era, where we have left behind swords and feudalism, as well as the noble system. Now, we live in a world where those who have power can do as they please. While there are injustices, overall, everyone has opportunities."
Emilia listens happily, as if hearing such words comforts her.
"Our society is based on scientific and technological advancements. We have a wide variety of technologies that make our daily lives easier. For example, you mentioned the cars and tall buildings you saw in the video. Those are just some of the many inventions we've developed to improve efficiency and convenience in our lives."
"Over two hundred thousand years, that's not just any figure," says Roswaal.
"The time you're in right now happened 531 years ago in my world, more or less, considering your total advancements that I'm unaware of. During that time, my society has experienced significant advances in various technological aspects."
"Your planet, as you call it, what's it like? Does it have monsters too?" Rem asks.
"In my planet, there are no monsters like the ones here. It's a sphere inhabited by a wide variety of animals and plants, including humans. Our biological diversity is extensive, with a wide range of species coexisting in different habitats. Its name is Earth."
I continue.
"Unlike this world, where monsters are a constant presence and pose a threat to the inhabitants, in my planet, humans are the dominant species, and there's no similar presence of dangerous or monstrous creatures."
Beatrice lets out a sigh.
"A sphere, that's impossible indeed," Beatrice extends her arms arrogantly.
"Isn't this world round?"
Emilia then responds, "This world is flat, with vast emptiness on its sides. We also have something called the Great Waterfall, where water falls into the void."
A flat world. It's something that doesn't make physical sense. Gravity, as we understand it, doesn't work that way. It's physically impossible for a flat world to exist, but this is where magic plays a crucial role in defying the laws of physics.
"The main difference lies in the fact that in my world, things are governed by natural laws. Let's take gravity, for example. From our perspective, we understand that objects fall to the ground due to the force of gravity, which acts as an attraction towards the center of our planet."
I show a spoon and lift it, capturing the curiosity of everyone present.
"Gravity attracts objects towards the center of the planet. The more mass an object has, the greater the attractive force it exerts. Consequently, planets, being massive, attract objects in all possible directions. That's why our planet has a spherical shape, as it pulls objects towards its center from all directions."
I request paper and a pencil and draw a rudimentary circle with arrows pointing towards the center.
"However, I understand that it's difficult for you to comprehend in a flat world. I wonder how things work here, whether magic makes them similar to my planet or if there are significant differences. To help you understand better, let's use a simpler example."
I dip my finger into a glass of water, and upon removing it, a drop remains attached to my hand.
"Imagine that my finger represents the force of attraction. In this case, it attracts the water droplet and keeps it stuck to my hand. However, the force my finger exerts is lower than what exists in this world, which eventually causes the droplet to fall."
Everyone seems to be contemplating my explanation, forming their own hypotheses and trying to grasp the difference between their magical laws and the natural laws of my world.
"In short, it's like when you attract mana towards you," says Beatrice.
"Exactly! That's it. That's how it can be explained, just like when you attract mana, the world constantly attracts us."
Everyone's gaze changes with that explanation, and it seems they understand perfectly now that Beatrice has spoken. Indeed, Beatrice seems smarter than I expected.
"You're very clever, Beatrice," I smile appreciatively.
"Of course! In fact," Beatrice huffs proudly.
I'll have to get her to help me adapt my ideas to this world. I'm sure she'll enjoy working with me.
Then Roswaal speaks, "It's a very interesting conversation, but we've finished breakfast, and we must continue with our work. We'll have other moments to talk since we'll be together for a while."
Roswaal then gets up, "Ram will take care of teaching you to read and write, and you can also ask her to write a letter with your pro~~posal. I'll read it, and we can discuss it later. If it's very go~~od, then you'll stop working as a servant."
Roswaal departs from the room with Ram.
"I have to go study. When I finish, I want to ask you more things," Emilia says excitedly.
"Yes, gladly," I smile.
Beatrice says nothing and leaves with Puck. Both seemed oblivious to the situation, but before disappearing from my sight, Puck winks at me.
It seems I'll need to have a deep conversation with someone.
Now, only Rem and I remain. The atmosphere quickly shifts from interesting to uncomfortable. Rem, still looking at me cautiously and angrily, walks towards me.
"Sir, please allow me to show you the mansion to help you familiarize yourself with it," Rem bows to me.
It must be difficult for her to have to do this. After all, I can't forgive those who took my family from me either.
And just like her...
I can't forgive myself.