I slowly wake up, feeling Emilia's movements in my arms.
Both seem to be in a peaceful slumber as the morning sunlight timidly filters through the room's cracks.
They use my body as a shield against the early rays.
Despite the looming battle, I know I must seize the morning to deal with the blacksmiths. I need to hire them for other crucial projects.
The iron forge must be built, but the current blacksmiths are busy crafting bullets. The weight of responsibilities is overwhelming, but it's my duty to face them without hesitation.
Even though my left arm is slightly numb from holding Emilia, I don't complain. On the other hand, Beatrice's weight is insignificant; I could carry her with just one finger if I wanted to.
Having them both asleep like this is truly gratifying.
I wonder what Emilia will say when she wakes up and discovers what we've shared tonight.
But those thoughts must wait. It's not the time for distractions or trivialities; I have pending interrogations and contracts to sign before meeting with Crusch.
Until I've secured all these important matters, it's better to stay alert and focused on my immediate tasks. I wish I could rest a bit more, but I know that's not allowed for someone like me.
I suppose I can go alone; there's no need to bring both with me on this journey. I have an important mission ahead, and I must face it alone. Emilia continues to smile peacefully in her sleep, holding onto me with a strength that prevents me from separating without waking her.
Both of my arms are trapped in their embraces, leaving me ensnared in their sweet presences. There's no way to escape without disturbing their sleep.
I decide to move my right arm, knowing that this will inevitably wake Beatrice. Her eyelids begin to tremble slightly, as if rejecting the idea of leaving the world of dreams.
I free myself from her grip, and she slowly opens her eyes.
"Mar...co?" Beatrice asks sleepily, looking at me intently.
Upon seeing me, a smile forms on her lips, and she enthusiastically launches herself towards me for a tight embrace. She seems genuinely happy; at least, I'm glad she has forgotten what happened during the selection.
She rubs her face against my chest as she gets closer to me.
"Good morning, I suppose..." Beatrice says before affectionately kissing me on the cheek and then sitting on the bed. I smile, noticing the positive change she has undergone since then.
"Good morning, my princess," I respond affectionately as I observe how Emilia continues to cling to me firmly, holding me by the torso with one of her arms and immobilizing me with a leg intertwined over mine.
Unable to free myself due to Emilia's superhuman strength, I silently plead with Beatrice to do something about it. For now, it's better not to wake her. I need to make use of the time and withdraw without disturbing her sleep.
Beatrice understands my silent gesture and begins to chant a magical spell. "You must pay a price for waking me up, in fact" Beatrice says with a playful smile as she finishes casting the spell. In an instant, my eyes receive new information, and I find myself looking at the ceiling from a completely different perspective.
Within seconds, I fall heavily to the floor.
Beatrice has the ability to use Yin magic on me, but unfortunately, our compatibility in this regard is quite limited due to my advanced understanding of magic in the way I use it.
Unlike people in this world, whose understanding of magic is superficial and limited by their imagination, I am delving deeply into its foundations. But that comes with limits to how I can use magic.
Magic is a way to break those physical limits, but for someone like me, I can't visualize it in a way that my heart desires. Therefore, those naturally compatible with certain types of magic simply follow a pre-established theory for its functioning.
Beatrice tells me that our compatibility is forced, and the use of her Yin magic consumes more mental energy on my part.
However, she assures me that if I continue training, I'll be able to diminish these negative effects. That's why every time I use my most powerful attack, Yin magic, I feel like my heart is about to explode, and I quickly fatigue mentally.
This is also the reason why I can't stand using "El Murak." Still lying on the floor after falling abruptly, Beatrice walks towards me with a malicious smile on her lips.
"My princess is so vengeful," I whisper to Beatrice, smiling as if complimenting her.
"You'll have to make it up to me, indeed," she adds, leaning in to gently press her finger against my forehead.
I quickly get up and glance at Emilia, who seems to still be deeply asleep and unaware of the commotion around us. I kindly ask Beatrice to use her magic to transport me to my room adjacent to Emilia's.
Although this will involve an unnecessary mana expense, it's better to be safe than sorry. I'm unfamiliar with the servants in this place, and I prefer to take extra precautions.
Beatrice nods in understanding, and just as she is about to cast the spell, I hear a soft murmur.
"Don't go..." Emilia whispers in a sweet, longing tone.
I didn't want Emilia to wake up, as I have pending matters, and honestly, I don't need her for any of them. I think it would be better for her to rest.
I approach her bed only to find her looking at me with half-closed eyes. She tries to take my hand, but I quickly free myself from her grip and place my hand on her head.
"Sleep a little longer; I have some errands to run before we meet with Crusch," I tell her as she nods sleepily and falls back onto the bed. I sigh in relief, knowing that I can now carry out my tasks without additional concerns.
Yes, I need to gather information.
I am transported to my room, and I feel my heartbeat slightly accelerate. "I've used that power too many times in a row, I suppose; you're still not accustomed to it, indeed," Beatrice comments as she drops onto the bed, and I decide to take a bath.
Beatrice decides to accompany me during the bath.
To be honest, I don't mind having her there. Once in the bath, she helps me wash my back as I continue to reflect on our situation. "Worrying won't change things, I suppose," Beatrice asserts as she stands in front of me.
It's an undeniable and undoubtedly true statement.
"Unfortunately, I'm human, and I can't help it," I say, stroking her head before allowing her to sink into the large bathtub.
Roswaal is excessively extravagant, having a bathroom identical to the one in the main mansion. I suppose it makes him feel comfortable and at home.
Beatrice encourages me to join, so I carefully immerse myself, feeling the hot water caress my body. I admit it's more relaxing, although the cold water wakes me up even more.
Today, I'll indulge Beatrice, as she doesn't enjoy cold water.
"Hehe, it's the first time we've bathed together," Beatrice says, looking at me with tenderness as she speaks.
I had suggested this to her before, but she always rejected it, claiming that I was a pervert or other things of the sort.
Bathing together is something I experienced in Japan with Kenichi, in that small village. It's an interesting experience; somehow, you feel more connected to the person involved.
Of course, I'll only do it with Beatrice; Emilia is completely out of the question out of respect for her, even though I don't see anything wrong with it, although that opinion must change now.
I won't take advantage of her innocence, although I'm not sure if that still applies. As I've taught her medicine, I was forced to give her sex education too.
However, it turned out to be really challenging for her, and it was difficult for her to understand everything. Besides, it was awkward, and I almost died during the process.
This made her even more embarrassed about any kind of physical contact back then. But apparently, she's gradually getting used to it.
"You're thinking about Emilia, I suppose..." Beatrice looks at me disapprovingly as she approaches me. She seems to know me too well; for a moment, I thought she could read my mind.
"Well... it's my investment," I respond. "Yes, I need to make sure I gain future benefits and be attentive to all the details." She pouts while looking away.
"If you say so..."
I suppose she's misinterpreting my attitude. Emilia needs to experience all kinds of situations, and if I reject her affection right now, it will make her close up again, see affection as something negative.
I have to be firm with her but also show her affection to prevent her from feeling bad.
Her attachment to me has increased considerably, but the moment she sees dangerous limits, I'll have to take action.
"The only princess I love is you," I gently stroke her hair as she smiles with her eyes closed. She lets her twin tails drop, creating a magical effect underwater, even if it's just an illusion.
I've seen her occasionally try different hairstyles and even experiment with the clothes Rem makes, although she could change her appearance with magic.
However, in the end, she hasn't altered her attire or style out of respect for Echidna.
I leave the bath and head to my room, where I encounter a servant: a demihuman cat whose tail flutters as she bows before me. "Your companions are waiting for you in the basement," the servant looks at me seriously, indicating that the man is already awake. I smile gratefully before nodding and entering the room.
Once inside, I start changing. I had prepared clothes for up to three days, but I suppose I'll need more time. Or maybe not...
Once I finish dressing, I open the door and see Beatrice looking worried.
"Beatrice, I'm going to need your help," I tell her. "I don't want you to witness these things, even if it's necessary." Maybe I'm giving it too much importance... Who knows what Echidna showed her.
She looks confused, but quickly seems to understand what I mean. Her face becomes serious as we walk together down the hallway.
"My mother forced me to do horrible things," she responds in a monotone voice devoid of emotions, "although if she were to ask me to do it again right now... I wouldn't."
Beatrice's words reveal that the things she did under the influence of her mother were truly impactful. Simply stating that she regrets it holds significant meaning.
"I'll make it up to you later. I'm sorry," I tell her, not delving into the matter. "I guess I can only compensate you in the future."
We finally reach the entrance of the basement, where Bert and Lessed are on guard. Both see us and perform a military salute instantly.
"General, Miss Beatrice, good morning!" they exclaim in unison, with the deference and respect we deserve.
"Good morning," I respond courteously, appreciating their diligent work as I enter the basement. Beatrice follows closely, but I decide to stop her in her tracks.
In the end, I don't want to cause that in her; it's not worth it.
"Stay up here for a few minutes; I'll call you when I need you, alright?" I ask her firmly.
Although I notice some discomfort in her eyes, Beatrice nods and turns around, obediently following my request. I don't want her to witness this dark facet of my personality.
I descend into the basement, where Lucas and Arne helplessly watch as the thief smirks mockingly while desperately trying to open an exit.
This individual lack the magical power to end his own life, or perhaps he fears doing so. Amidst the chaos around me, the perfectly arranged boxes and the presence of dust indicate that this thief hasn't used any magic.
However, without arms or legs to channel mana, I can boldly assert that he doesn't possess significant magical abilities.
I approach them calmly, showing no disturbance; Lucas and Arne turn surprised at my presence. Meanwhile, the thief directs a look of disdain towards me before spitting disdainfully on the dirty, damp floor.
Keeping my composure, I approach him with determined steps. I notice that he looks tired and drowsy; his body hasn't lost much blood, but he undoubtedly tried to escape during the night.
Unfortunately for him, his efforts were thwarted by my providential intervention.
I crouch in front of him, and before he can spit on me again in a sign of insolence, I unleash a powerful water spell on his malicious face.
Surprise reflects in his astonished eyes as he frantically searches for an exit in vain.
"Well," I whisper calmly, "I have multiple methods to make you talk; however, I prefer to resolve this peacefully."
With audacity and solemnity, I take three holy coins from the inner pocket of my jacket.
A single holy coin can secure a comfortable life for many years, but offering three guarantees the miserable man in front of me not only avoids hard labor for the rest of his existence but also lives surrounded by his loved ones.
His eyes gleam with greed as he contemplates the shiny holy coins; his lips tremble under the relentless cold of the dark basement. However, those same lips press together with determination at my tempting proposal.
"If your contractors have entrusted you with something valuable... if they've confided in you with a secret... now is your chance to speak," I say slowly with authoritative voice, offering him a last chance for redemption.
The thief shakes his head, bewildering me with his unexpected lack of cooperation. His expression of disdain transforms into a genuine mix of concern and distress.
I smile impassively, not allowing his desperation to emotionally affect me. "Very well," I conclude coldly, "if that's what you wish, don't blame me." The thief opens his eyes in surprise, diverting his gaze elsewhere for several seconds.
I can see how he repeatedly tenses and relaxes the muscles of his arms, while his legs involuntarily convulse due to his inability to move them.
"I must report before it's too late! I'll tell you everything when I return!"
His attitude is intriguing. If I were in a similar situation, hired as a thief and facing the offer of valuable holy coins along with the promise of fair treatment, only two reasons could explain it.
The first would be the fear that it's all a lie. However, I dismiss this possibility based on the man's initial words: he mentioned that he had to report important news.
The second option is even more plausible: someone is threatening him.
Amid his frantic agitation, the individual tries to break free with force, and his worried expression gives way to an angry yet desperate glint.
"Let me out!" he exclaims vehemently as he struggles to use his legs to move, all the while waving his impotent arms.
Although he can't stand or use his hands in this sorry state, he at least retains some functionality in his lower limbs.
To calm him and reason with him without exerting too much force, I abruptly grab his head between my hands and make it collide with the nearby wall. Once achieved, I can see how he momentarily regains composure.
"Are you being threatened?" I ask directly, looking at him with surprise and determination. "Is a loved one of yours being held hostage?"
In response, the man clenches his lips so hard that blood spurts from them. He looks at me fearfully, and after a deep sigh, he nods his head before expressing his deepest hatred.
"They have my daughter," he murmurs in a low voice laden with desperation. And so, an unpleasant reason, from whatever source it may be, is revealed. The man's words surprise Lucas, who approaches him. I remain silent, but my gaze urges the man to continue his story.
"I don't have time to waste, if it's dawn then..." the thief begins to say before being interrupted by the sight of the clock in my hands, indicating that it's already morning and there's nothing more to be done.
At that precise moment, all resistance ceases. The man looks down while a light leaves his eyes, visibly paling. Suddenly, with a desperate impulse backward, he tries to end his own life.
With skill and speed, I manage to prevent it by holding him firmly in my arms before he can carry out such a desperate act. Although he struggles to free himself, I keep him steady, not yielding to his efforts.
"Tell me the information, and I'll take care of avenging her," I say with determination as I stare at him. The man scrutinizes me with hatred, but finally, he begins to speak reluctantly as tears well up in his eyes, and he tries to force the words between choked sobs.
"I was hired by the candidate Anastasia Hoshin... She ordered me to steal your weapon and deliver it to her," he whispers while looking at the ceiling. "My daughter was taken as a bargaining chip... It's something she's been doing in secret. In Kararagi, it's common."
The mention of Kararagi and its legalized practice of slavery fills me with indignation, but the man quickly clarifies that this goes beyond simple slavery.
"Anastasia Hoshin? I doubt she would get involved in something without gaining benefits in return," I express incredulously. "Besides, I highly doubt that Julius would allow it, and I don't believe he would be willing to risk so much."
The man looks at me with determination through tears as he whispers firmly, "She only cares about obtaining your power... She'll do anything to achieve it as long as she can benefit."
Tired of this despicable charade, I place my hand on his leg, slowly increasing the temperature. Although I still don't have complete control over this power, there are moments when it fluctuates from intense heat to scorching.
The man looks at me in surprise at this supernatural manifestation.
"What I'm saying is true!" he exclaims as a grimace of pain forms on his face, and I continue to increase the heat. "Anastasia is not what you think. That witch acted behind her knight's back, I'm sure of it because she was the one who revealed your location to me."
Slowly, everything begins to make sense in my mind.
"She ordered me to follow you and wait for an opportunity to act... Only then would she release my daughter," the man smiles with a macabre expression.
At this point, only two main suspects remain.
"Thank you for the information," I reply as I stand up and signal to Lucas. He understands immediately and approaches the thief. In a last desperate cry, he tries to do something, but soon he is plunged into absolute silence.
I suppose I won't need Beatrice's services anymore...
"Get rid of the body. I'll head to the capital; wait at the mansion until further notice," I command without hesitation as I ascend the stairs towards the outside.
As I reflect on the events, I can only see two possible culprits, but one stands out clearly among them: Roswaal.
His precise knowledge of our route and circumstances cannot be mere coincidence. It's true that he could have thoroughly investigated every aspect related to us, but there's a crucial detail: no one can act in such a way if Reinhard is present.
He has claimed to have the ability to read minds in certain situations, especially when it comes to malicious intentions or extreme suffering. If someone had ill intentions towards us, Reinhard would have detected it and intervened.
This can only mean two things: there is a way to bypass Reinhard's powers, or they already knew our route from the beginning. Anastasia couldn't randomly discover a route that is unplanned and full of detours. On the other hand, someone who can see the future could.
I can't let the thief cloud my judgment with his lies. If I let him talk more, I might make a wrong decision.
The most crucial thing is the intentions behind all of this, and involving Anastasia can only mean one thing: someone wants to sow conflict between her and me.
Anastasia isn't that kind of person, according to the information from the novel, of course, but she's certainly not the main suspect.
Furthermore, she wouldn't have a reason to hire such weak individuals, knowing my strength she would have hired specialized people, probably demihumans according to her group.
The attack was premeditated to make me kill them and discover that it was supposedly from Anastasia. This makes me think about the Wisemen; it's something that wouldn't concern or matter to Roswaal.
With Roswaal, although it's reluctantly, it shouldn't be him. Even if Anastasia is a formidable adversary, there wouldn't be a need to confront her so forcefully. Therefore, the Wisemen are the only possible culprits.
Beatrice looks at me surprised by my resolution, but I smile at her and take her hand.
"Let's head to the capital," I say decisively.
We leave alone without taking any carriage or additional transport. I'm not very familiar with the way to our destination, but I'll ask someone. Beatrice seems excited; she observes everything around her, experiencing this place for the first time.
Lately, she has been much livelier and even behaves like a child at times, which is a bit uncomfortable considering I've never interacted much with children.
I suppose I'll get used to it over time.
At the end of the day, I'm the one encouraging her to act like this, so in part, this uncomfortable situation is my fault.
The capital is bustling with activity due to the elections; many people are likely making investments and establishing connections to support a political candidate. Unfortunately, I highly doubt Emilia has many followers.
Once we arrive, I gaze at the fountain in the center of the square. This is where I first appeared in this world.
"Was it here?" asks Beatrice, curious as she looks around. It's been months since that moment, and I doubt I can feel anything special now.
As expected, Beatrice shakes her head, indicating that she doesn't sense any supernatural feelings. We continue our way until we reach an apple stand on a corner near the blacksmiths.
The vendor scrutinizes me before expressing his disapproval.
"I didn't see you with any kid before, and now you have one," says the man, glancing at Beatrice, who maintains a radiant smile.
"Well, things change... She's my adopted daughter," I respond without hesitation, while Beatrice continues to smile brightly and grips my hand firmly.
I take out a holy coin from the hidden pocket in my sleeve and hand it to the vendor without hesitation. "If it weren't for you, I would have ended up in trouble," I admit with gratitude.
The intervention of this man was crucial for Reinhard to enter the slums. If it hadn't been for him, everything would have gone according to plan, and we would have faced unnecessary difficulties. His face lights up at the sight of the holy coin, almost as if his life has been resolved.
"I called him as a precaution," the man explains as he contemplates the gold coin with joy. He then hands an apple to Beatrice. "It's the best I've gathered today, enjoy it." Beatrice nods and takes a bite of the juicy fruit, showing her satisfaction.
We say goodbye to the friendly vendor and head towards the blacksmith guild.
Baltazar mentioned that we could hire them due to the situation they are in here. The most influential guild in Lugunica has managed to supplant all the other guilds present in the capital; they either hire people or pay them to abandon their businesses.
Those who decided to leave didn't face major issues afterward, but the brave entrepreneurs who chose to stay were threatened, and slowly their businesses were mercilessly destroyed.
That's how the world works...
"Here we are," I announce as we reach the desolate alley where the clandestine workshop is located.
The traffic of people is scarce in this area, and a suspicious entrance covered with wooden planks catches my attention. Several inscriptions warn about the presence of gangs, though their disorderly arrangement allows glimpses of what lies behind.
The words "do not enter" and "danger" intertwine on the boards, forming a scene that clearly indicates the difficult situation in which the inhabitants of this place find themselves.
I observe around us cautiously, but there seems to be no one paying attention...
Not a whisper emanates from that shadowy place, but if the information provided by Baltazar proves to be true, then we are in the right location.
I take out a silver coin and toss it through the boards obstructing the entrance, causing a fleeting echo before the sound quickly fades away. If what Baltazar told me is accurate, then I must now announce my arrival on his behalf.
"Baltazar entrusted me with his information; I come with a proposal," I announce loudly.