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Re:Zero S3E01 - SubsPlease vs Chihiro

Created 6 months agoDiff never expires

639 lines

631 lines

Hell yeah! Cleared it!

Subaru.

Well fought, I suppose.

Good work, I suppose.

Oh, perfect! Thanks!

It's a little chilled, even! I feel alive again!

It even feels like it's been chilled! I feel alive again!

You can thank Petra personally for that.

You can thank Petra for that.

It would make her leap with delight, I suppose.

It would make her jump for joy, I suppose.

It's already been a year since we entered into our contract, huh?

Time sure flies.

Time sure does fly.

And my Beako is as cute as ever today.

But my Beako is as adorable as ever today.

I'm getting all emotional.

It's so moving.

But of course Betty is adorable!

Me being adorable is a given!

I've gotten a lot stronger over the past year, too.

I've really gotten a lot stronger over the past year, too.

Hee-hee, I suppose!

You really got me! That was a funny joke, I suppose!

I didn't mean it as a joke, actually!

I wasn't trying to make a joke, though!

Just look at this secret training facility!

Just check out this covert training facility!

It's packed with tough attractions that would make most adults throw in the towel,

It's packed with brutal obstacles that would make most adults throw in the towel,

and I can get through them all flawlessly now!

but I've gotten to the point where I can clear them perfectly now!

You're definitely exaggerating.

That's definitely an exaggeration.

You and Garfiel are the only ones who call it a "secret training facility," I suppose.

You and Garfiel are pretty much the only ones who call it a "covert training facility," I suppose.

I'll get you for that!

Eek!

Now you've said it!

This is spirit abuse, I suppose!

You are an absolutely heinous contractor!

You are an abhorrent contract holder!

Subaru-sama! Beatrice-chan!

Subaru! Beatrice!

There's a visitor at the mansion!

Big Sister Emilia said she wants you both there.

Miss Emilia said she wants you both there.

An unexpected visitor...

An unexpected visitor.

An adorable Emilia-tan asking for me...

And the adorable Emilia-tan asking for me.

I smell an incident! Don't you?

I smell trouble brewing.

More like another big headache, I suppose.

Hey, Bro! It's you!

How've you been?!

How you been?!

Mimi!

It's been ages! How've you been?

Super great!

I also got taller! I'm a grown-up woman now!

No one who takes a flying leap onto my head the moment they see me is a grown-up!

No one who leaps onto my head the moment they see me gets to call themselves a grown-up!

But anyway, thanks for coming so far out here.

But anyway, thanks for making the trip all the way out here.

Incidentally, if you're here, then...

Incidentally, if you're here, that means...

Hey, Bro,

Hey Bro,

you don't need to worry.

you don' need to worry.

Julius isn't with me today.

Julius didn't come today.

So you're finally here, Barusu.

I see you've finally arrived, Barusu.

It took you long enough.

What a pervert.

You perv.

You're the pervert if you think this scene is anything but heartwarming!

You're the pervert if you find this anything but wholesome!

Hah.

You should stop deciding what things are based on your own personal opinions.

You should stop declaring what anything is or isn't based on your own personal opinions.

I suggest you remember this, Barusu.

In my evaluation, my personal opinion rules.

My evaluation is based on my own personal opinions.

You seem to have conflicting views about personal opinion!

The first half of your argument doesn't exactly line up with the second!

Hey, what took ya so long, Boss?

Get in here already.

Otto-nii and Emilia-sama ain't much of a welcoming party.

Otto and Lady Emilia's attempts at welcoming our guest

They're more like a comedy duo in here.

is turning into a comedy routine.

That sounds like something I'd want to watch for a while.

I think I'd rather stay here and watch the show for a while.

Stop being stupid and get in there.

Stop blathering out nonsense and get in there.

And this is him?

Yes, that's right.

Sorry to keep you waiting.

My apologies for the wait.

This is my knight, Natsuki Subaru.

"This is my knight."

Is something the matter?

I went on a little trip there.

I'm very sorry about that.

I'm terribly sorry about that.

I am, per Emilia-sama's introduction,

I am, per Lady Emilia's introduction,

her knight, Natsuki Subaru.

Thank you for your courtesy.

Your courtesy is appreciated.

I'm—

I have come here as a messenger for Anastasia Hoshin-sama.

I am here as a messenger for Lady Anastasia Hoshin.

My name is Joshua Euclius.

My name is Joshua Juukulius.

Euclius?

Juukulius?

Oh, I guess that surprised you, too!

Oh, I guess you weren't expecting that either!

That's right!

Joshua is Julius's younger brother!

Joshua is Julius' younger brother!

Huh?!

Natsuki-dono, yes?

Sir Natsuki, yes?

My brother has spoken of you.

I have heard all sorts of rumors, as well.

There are also other rumors going around, as well.

Oh, okay. You're Julius's kid brother.

Oh, I see. You're Julius' little brother.

You do have that same nast— I mean, sharp look in your eyes,

Now that you mention it, you do have that same nast—I mean, sharp look in your eyes,

and the same cynic—I mean, refined curve to your lips,

and the same devi— I mean, lovely hair color.

and the same demoni— I mean, vibrant hair color.

Could you just stop talking? It's obvious you're forcing it.

You know you can just not talk, right? It's obvious you're forcing it.

Anyway, sorry I kept you waiting.

Anyway, sorry to keep you waiting.

Keep talking.

Back to the discussion.

W-Wait just a moment! Who is that young girl?

W-Wait just a moment! Who's that young girl?

Is there a problem with Betty, I suppose?

Is there a problem with me being here, I suppose?

That's Beako.

She's Sis and Bro's baby.

She's Sis and Bro's kid!

What?!

That's right! This is Emilia-tan's and I's adorable baby, Beatrice—

That's right! This is Emilia-tan and I's adorable baby, Beatrice—

She is not! Stop scaring poor Joshua!

You know that's not true! Stop scaring poor Joshua!

I know I've kissed you before,

I know we've kissed before,

but kissing doesn't make a baby!

but kissing can't make a baby!

I studied up on that!

I looked it up!

Er, sorry, Emilia-tan.

I feel like you're going to expose some wild truths while you're being so frank.

It feels really embarrassing, like I'm about to be caught up in a huge scandal.

Please stop, okay? I was wrong!

Please stop, okay? I was in the wrong!

Um...

So just what is the purpose of the young lady Beatrice's presence?

So what actually is the purpose of the young lady Beatrice's presence?

Beatrice is a great spirit that I have a contract with.

Beatrice is the adorable great spirit who I have a contract with.

A great spirit?

Yo, visitor.

You got some kinda problem with my boss bringin' a spirit in here?

You got a problem with my boss bringin' a spirit in here?

No, I had heard the rumors.

I was just surprised to learn that he truly is a spirit knight.

I was just surprised to learn that he really is a spirit knight.

As I believe you know, my brother is also a spirit knight—

As I believe you know, my brother is also a spirit knight.

the top spirit knight in the whole country!

He's the top spirit knight in the whole country, in fact!

Yeah, of course I know that.

Yeah, I'm well aware.

He's done a lot... to...

He's done a lot to...

A lot... to... help us out...

A lot to... help us out...

You're really so against admitting that he's helped you?!

Are you really that dead set on not admitting he's helped you out?!

Betty is aware that there are other knight-and-spirit pairs besides us.

I'm aware that there are other knight-and-spirit pairs besides us.

I've heard that he is quite a promising one, I suppose.

But of course! My brother is an amazing man!

But of course! My brother is an incredible man!

At the mere age of 22, he's the star of the Imperial Knights,

At the mere age of 22, he's the star of the Kingdom Knights,

as well as the Royal Guard's second-in-command!

as well as second-in-command of the Royal Guard!

He may be currently separated from his role,

He may be away from his duties for now but,

but once Anastasia-sama assumes the throne,

once Lady Anastasia assumes the throne,

he is guaranteed to become captain!

he is guaranteed to be Commander in no time!

Even the current Master Swordsman, Reinhard,

Even the current Sword Saint, Reinhard,

can't hold a candle to my brother's knightly ways!

My brother is, indeed, a true knight!

Yes, my brother is a true knight, indeed!

R-Right.

I'm officially turned off.

I'm completely put off.

You really love your big brother Julius, don't you?

You really do love your big brother Julius, don't you?

I-I apologize. I lose all restraint when it comes to my family.

I-I apologize. I just don't know how to hold back when it comes to my family.

Whatever. Just get to the damn point already.

They say baumbehm tastes better the longer it ages, but there's a limit, y'know?

Baumbehm?!

I love baumbehm! It's yummy!

Wanna eat some together?

Wanna go get some?

S-Sure...

Okay! It's a promise!

Many pardons.

If you'll allow me,

I will now deliver the message my master, Anastasia Hoshin-sama,

I will now deliver the message my master, Lady Anastasia Hoshin,

has sent for Emilia-sama.

has sent for Lady Emilia.

Anastasia-sama would like to invite Emilia-sama to the Watergate City of Priestella.

Lady Anastasia would like to invite Lady Emilia to the Watergate City of Priestella.

The Watergate City of Priestella?

What business does she have with her, exactly?

This is an invitation to a party.

It seems to be an invitation to a party.

Anastasia-sama says that, out of the goodness of her heart,

Lady Anastasia says that, out of the goodness of her heart,

she has found what Emilia-sama seeks.

she has found what Lady Emilia seeks.

What I... seek?

What I seek?

Yes.

It seems a merchant in Priestella has the magic crystal you desire.

It appears that a merchant in Priestella has the magic crystal you desire.

Magic crystal?

Yes.

You are in search of a catalyst for recalling a great spirit, are you not?

You are in search of a catalyst for recalling the great spirit, are you not?

Bye, Garf!

I'll be waiting in Pri-Pri!

You better come!

You better show!

Looks like she's really taken to you, Garfiel.

It looks like she's really taken a liking to you, Garfiel.

Not like I'm happy 'bout that!

You say that like it's a good thing!

But you don't seem particularly upset about it.

And yet you don't seem particularly bothered by it.

Yeah? Like hell I'm not!

Like hell I'm not!

You just can't be honest, can you?

You just can't be honest, huh?

I am being honest!

Frankly, I'm a little afraid to end up owing a debt to Anastasia-san.

To be honest, I'm a little afraid to end up owing Anastasia a debt, but...

What kind of city is Priestella, anyway?

Is it famous?

Is it well known?

Priestella is one of the five biggest cities in Lugunica.

It's right on the border with the city-state of Kararagi.

It's right on the border of the Kararagi City-States.

There are canals running throughout the city,

There are canals running throughout,

and it's supposed to be really beautiful.

and they say it's a truly beautiful city.

Oh, so it's a city on the water, huh?

Oh, so it's a city on water, huh?

In terms of the world I know, I guess it's like Venice.

It sounds like it's similar to Venice?

I don't know what "Venice" is,

I'm not familiar with this "Venice",

but Priestella isn't a city on the water. It's the Watergate City.

but Priestella isn't a city on water. It's the Watergate City.

Watergate City?

Yes. It's in the middle of a lake,

Right. It's in the middle of a lake,

and when it rains, the whole city ends up underwater.

and when it rains, the whole city floods.

So the city is surrounded by tall walls,

That's why they surrounded the city with tall walls,

and there are several watergates that control the water level.

and set up several floodgates to control the water level.

That changes my image of it from a water capital to a water prison.

Suddenly, I'm imagining less of a water city and more of a water prison.

What do you think she wants to bring you there for?

I wonder why she's inviting us to such a place.

Is it wrong to believe that maybe she was just being nice?

Am I wrong for wanting to believe that she's just trying to do a good deed?

I hate to say it, but all the royal selection candidates have their peculiarities.

Unfortunately, the royal selection candidates all have their quirks.

Right...

But...

I have so many things I want to tell Puck, and lots of questions, too.

I have so many things I want to tell Puck. So many questions, as well.

So...

That's why...

You'd better get your butt back here soon, cat spirit!

I've got a hell of a lot of grudges to take out on you, too.

I've got some things I need to unload on you too.

I'm sorry I have to leave the mansion at such an important time.

I'm sorry I have to leave the mansion at such a critical time.

Oh, not at all.

I have every intention of honoring your will, Emilia-sama.

I have every intention of honoring your will, Lady Emilia.

Even if this is a terribly busy time,

Even if this is a terribly hectic time,

with the assembly of the western nobles and all.

Truly, Master, you show no signs of remorse whatsoever.

Truly, Master, you show no shred of remorse whatsoever.

My, how harsh of you, Frederica.

But of course.

Frankly, it worries me a bit to send you and Subaru-kun there alone,

Frankly, I'm a bit hesitant to send you and Subaru there alone,

but if Garfiel and Otto-kun are with you, you should be fine.

but if Garfiel and Otto are with you, you should be fine.

I don't need to worry about Otto-kun making any silly mistakes in negotiations,

I can trust Otto to competently handle negotiations,

and in the worst case, Garfiel can destroy anything to help you all flee.

and if worse comes to worst, Garfiel can demolish a path for you to escape.

That seems like it'd cause major problems in itself!

I'll do my very best, I promise!

I promise I'll give it my all!

You have nothing to worry about, Emilia-tan.

You have nothing to fear, Emilia-tan.

Whether we're up against Anastasia-san or Julius,

It doesn't matter whether we're up against Anastasia or Julius,

when it comes to throwing up smokescreens in a conversation, I'm first-rate!

I'm not sure that's something to brag about.

Geez, I don't think that's something you should be bragging about.

So is it safe to assume that Ram will be staying behind at the mansion?

So there'll be no problems with Ram staying behind at the mansion?

Yes, as you wish, Roswaal-sama.

Yes, as you wish, Lord Roswaal.

Sounds like everything's decided.

I'll be counting on you, Beatrice, to watch over the four of them.

Well then, I'll leave it to you, Beatrice, to watch over the four of them.

Mew?!

I don't need you to tell me that, I suppose!

Y'know what?!

Despite how I might look, I'm thinkin' about all o' you guys!

I know how it looks but, I'm thinkin' about all o' you guys!

You're basically an internal affairs officer at this point, huh?

Why're you lookin' at me with such pity?

Hey, relax, Otto-nii.

Hey, relax, Otto.

Boss ain't the type to tease people too much.

You too boss. Don't tease him too much!

He settled on ten Ottos a day before, remember?

We agreed on ten Ottos a day before, remember?

What's "ten Ottos a day" s'posed ta mean?!

I'm coming in.

Beg your pardon.

Rem...

Looks like I won't be able to see you for a while.

But I've got lots of things to tell you today.

But we've got a lot to catch up on after today.

An uninvited guest brought us a huge new problem to deal with, y'know...

An uninvited guest threw something huge on our lap for us to deal with, y'know...

Before we see Anastasia-sama,

Before we see Lady Anastasia,

let me tell you all about where the royal selection currently stands.

let me get you up to date on where the royal selection currently stands.

Right.

At first,

Duchess Crusch Kursten and Anastasia Hoshin-sama

Duchess Crusch Kursten and Lady Anastasia Hoshin

were seen as the top pick and leading rival.

were seen as the top candidate and leading rival.

The other three, including Emilia-sama...

The other three, including Lady Emilia...

If I may be blunt,

To put it bluntly,

most thought you were just there to balance the numbers.

most thought you were just there to pad out the numbers.

Yes, I think that's undeniable.

Yes, it's hard to argue.

But over this past year, at the very least,

But at the very least, over this past year,

opinions of you on the street have changed.

there's been an undeniable uptick in your public perception.

Your achievements in working with two powerful forces

to take out the White Whale and a Sin Archbishop played a big role in that.

The other two number-balancing candidates, especially Priscilla,

The other two filler candidates, the Priscilla faction in particular,

have made striking progress, as well.

After she inherited her late husband's territory,

After inheriting her late husband's territory,

influential people who were concerned about the state of affairs surrounding her

she swiftly won over the influential figures in the region,

very quickly joined her side.

who were quick to join her, amidst political turmoil.

And given her beauty and temperament that allow her to manipulate folks so easily,

Her charm and beauty allows her to easily curry favor with the people.

she is now revered as the "Sun Princess" and gains momentum by the day.

She is now revered as the "Sun Princess" and her momentum only grows by the day.

And Felt's only strength early on was her knight,

At first, the only strength Felt's faction had was her knight,

the Master Swordsman, Reinhard von Astrea.

the Sword Saint, Reinhard van Astrea.

But the ones she set her sights on

However, she set her sights on

were people who had considerable talents, but troubled personalities,

people of considerable talents, but boorish personalities,

and those who already bore wounds.

and those who already bore scars.

She proactively brought them to her side,

and with her flexible ideas and perspectives,

and with flexible ideas and perspectives,

she initiated massive reforms in the domain.

initiated massive reforms in her territory.

So during the past year, no pieces have fallen off the board.

Therefore during the past year, no pieces have fallen off the board.

Except...

Since Duchess Crusch Kursten lost her memories

in the battle against the Witch's Cult,

her outlook is not favorable.

her outlook has diminished considerably.

Meanwhile, Anastasia is the only candidate who hasn't lost any momentum,

neither before nor after the royal selection began.

neither before nor after the start of the royal selection.

Anastasia-san has a big business called the Hoshin Company backing her, right?

Anastasia has the backing of a big business called the Hoshin Company, right?

Yes.

Correct.

Their weapon is their wealth.

Their wealth is their greatest weapon.

Striking with their financial might is their best move.

Striking with their financial might may be their strongest play.

So this invitation from Anastasia,

and on top of that, the likelihood of becoming indebted to her...

and on top of that, the likelihood of incurring a debt to her...

Do you see just how much this is making my stomach hurt now?

Do you see why this is twisting my stomach in knots now?

I finally have a good idea now.

I feel like I understand the situation now.

I apologize for my willful actions.

As long as you understand, it's all right.

If you understand, then that's enough for now.

And there's no need to worry about all these things alone.

And there's no need to carry this burden alone.

It's just like this dragon-drawn carriage.

Like the dragon-drawn carriage? How?

Like the carriage in what way?

Natsuki-san is the one holding the reins right now.

Natsuki's the one holding the reins right now.

Beatrice-chan is watching him to make sure he doesn't neglect his duty.

Beatrice is right there watching him to make sure he doesn't slack off.

Garfiel is keeping an eye on our surroundings.

I'm the one who came up with the carriage's itinerary.

And you talk to all of us, telling us we're doing a good job,

And you're telling us all we're doing great,

as we laboriously make our way to Priestella.

The way you said that sounded a lot like Subaru.

That sounded a lot like something Subaru would say.

What?! Really?!

I don't like that...

I didn't want to hear that...

Hey, Otto, what's up? No fair!

What're you getting so hyped up about with my Emilia-tan?

What're you getting my Emilia-tan so fired up about?!

Beako, take the reins for a minute!

Wait! I can't!

Stop it, I suppose! Subaru! Subaru!

Yo, Boss! What're ya doin'?!

Yo, Boss! What'cha ya doin'?!

Ya sure that's a good idea?!

Subaru! Wait!

Subaru!

Ya sure you got this?!

S-Subaru!

They're awfully strict about just letting people enter and leave.

They're awfully strict about who gets in or out.

This is feeling more and more like a water prison.

This really is starting to feel more like a water prison now.

Wow...

Wow.

Damn, this really is a hell of a view.

You're right, this really is a hell of a view.

Priestella is a city that was built on top of a lake

Originally, Priestella was a city that was built on top of a lake

using 400-year-old technology.

using technology from 400 years ago.

Its construction is strange,

Its construction is unusual,

but considering that the city itself was meant to be a trap,

but considering that the city itself was designed to be a trap,

it makes sense that they built it so the water

would easily collect in the center, I suppose.

The city itself was a trap?

That sounds so insidious...

That sounds so insidious.

Were they trying to trap mabeasts or what?

Were they trying to trap demon beasts or something?

No one knows.

There are no records explaining what the trap was for, I suppose.

There are no records explaining the trap's intended purpose, I suppose.

Man, this place is seriously a maze, though.

Man, this place is seriously like a maze, though.

The city was built around the canals,

It seems like the city was built around the canals,

so the parts on land ended up very complicated.

so the parts on land ended up super intricate.

Dragon-drawn boats are more common than dragon-drawn carriages here.

"Wings on the Water."

"Feather Robe of Water."

What a strangely-shaped building.

What an oddly shaped building.

This is our lodging? It looks more like a traditional Japanese inn.

This is our inn? It looks more like a traditional Japanese Ryokan!

Y'all sure seem surprised.

You all look wicked shocked.

Makes me glad I chose this place for ya.

Guess I picked the right spot for ya.

Anastasia-san.

Anastasia.

Hiya. Welcome to Priestella.

Heya. Welcome to Priestella.

Thanks for comin'.

Good to see you again, Julius.

Lovely to see you as well, Emilia-sama.

And you as well, Lady Emilia.

It's been a long time since I last saw you.

It's been too long since I last saw you.

Wouldn't you agree the view is magnificent, Natsuki Subaru-dono?

Don't you agree, Sir Natsuki Subaru?

Subaru-dono, my ass.

Sir Subaru, my ass.

I see right through you.

So you may say, but you hold a position worthy of the honorific now.

So you may say, but you hold a position worthy of the title now.

I only treated you with the appropriate respect.

It's merely the respect you deserve.

Yeah, like hell!

Don't "the respect you deserve" me, buddy!

You're creeping me out! Can the sarcasm!

I'm cringing! Enough sarcasm!

I see.

Your status may have changed,

but it seems to have had little effect on your disposition.

but it seems to have had little effect on your character.

Uh, everyone... It's all well and good to rekindle old friendships, but...

Uh, everyone. Rekindling old friendships is nice and all, but...

You are...

You're...

I'm—

Please accept my most sincere apologies.

Please accept my sincerest apologies.

I had no idea such a high-ranking great spirit as yourself was accompanying them.

I'll introduce you to him, okay?

I'll introduce you, okay?

This is Beatrice, the loli—I mean, spirit that I'm contracted with.

This is the loli—I mean, spirit Beatrice that I'm contracted with.

As Subaru's partner, it is only natural that Betty is here with him, I suppose.

As Subaru's partner, it is only natural that I'm here with him, I suppose.

I am of an entirely different status, rank, and cuteness than the ordinary spirits you keep around.

The unnamed spirits you carry are incomparable to me in terms of class, realm, or cuteness.

And bearing that firmly in mind...

Might I request some delicious tea and pastries, I suppose?

you will now offer delicious tea and snacks, I suppose.

Don't abandon your dignity right at the end!

Don't let your dignity slip at the last second!

Garf! You're here!

Why didn't Milady tell me?!

Why did Milady keep it a secret from me?!

Let's go explore the inn!

I'll show you around!

I'll guide you around!

Hey, hang on! I'm not done talkin' yet!

Hey, hang on! I ain't done talkin' yet!

Damn, you're strong!

Let's go! Right now!

C'mon! Let's go!

Guess we should go, too.

Guess we should get going too.

What're you stiffening up for?

What's up with you?

Oh, it doesn't matter.

Oh, it's nothing.

It doesn't matter...

It's nothing...

This place feels so strange.

This place has such a different atmosphere.

We're sitting on the floor,

and we even took off our shoes.

I bet there are no bedrooms or beds, just futons to lay on the floor.

I'd bet there are no bedrooms or beds either. Just futons to lay on the floor.

I wonder if we're expected to wear yukata indoors, too.

Subaru, you really seem to know a lot about this place.

You sure do.

He sure does.

Where did ya study up so much on Kararagi's style?

Where'd ya learn so much about Kararagi's style?

Kararagi's style? You mean this inn?

Kararagi's style? You mean the inn?

Yep. This sort of Wafuu architecture is traditional in Kararagi.

Yeah. This traditional Japanese architecture came from Kararagi.

Wafuu architecture?

Japanese architecture?

I can't get over how familiar that sounds...

Now there are words I just can't ignore.

Priestella was built by Hoshin, one of the great men who founded Kararagi.

Hoshin?

Also known as Hoshin of the Wilderness.

Ever since he lived 400 years ago,

Ever since his time 400 years ago,

he's been known for his innovative creativity and advanced ideas.

he's been renown for his innovative ideas and forward-thinking vision.

Hoshin of the Wilderness...

He was probably summoned from another world,

specifically Japan, just like me.

Anastasia-sama, the preparations are complete.

Lady Anastasia, the preparations are complete.

Thanks, Joshua.

Now, shall we get to the topic you've all been waitin' for?

The magic crystal you're lookin' for

The magic crystal ya lookin' for

is in the hands of the heir to the biggest trade company in this city.

is in the hands of the next successah to the biggest trade company in this city.

Joshua has arranged a dragon-drawn boat to take y'all to the Muse Company.

Joshua has prepeahd a dragon-drawn boat to take you to the Muse Company.

The heir to the Muse Company?

Yep. He's a gifted businessman himself,

Yep. He's a wicked good businessman himself,

but in this city, he's known by another name.

Another name?

Yep. The Man Whose Heart Was Stolen by the Songstress.

Yeah. The Man Whose Heart Was Stolen by the Songstress.

In other words...

In othah words...

The Songstress Maniac.

I've never ridden a boat over water before!

I've never ridden a boat on the water before!

I'm kind of excited!

I'm starting to get excited!

The Songstress Maniac? He's gotta be a weirdo.

The Songstress Maniac? There's gotta be something wrong with him.

Huh?

Is that canal flowing in a different direction?

Are you surprised?

I actually know this one.

Look there.

Look over there.

That's the control tower that controls the flow of all the water in the city.

That's the control tower which directs the flow of all the water in the city.

The tower overall is a metia of very complex construction.

The entire tower is a metia with a very complex mechanism.

It uses water magic stones to control the water flow.

Incidentally, getting the water dirty here is severely penalized,

Incidentally, polluting the water here is severely penalized,

so please be careful.

so do be careful.

Especially Garfiel, the one who's been staring at the water looking terrified this whole time.

Especially Garfiel, who's been staring at the water looking terrified this whole time.

It ain't like I'm scared of water or anything!

I just don't wanna turn out like a wet cat, that's all!

I just don't wanna end up lookin' like a wet cat!

Then could you loosen up your death grip on my cloak?

It sounds like it's going to rip.

It sounds like it's about to rip.

Good grief. You're all getting too carried away.

You should learn from the much more ladylike Betty's exampl—

You should learn from my much more ladylike exampl—

Subaru?

Uh-oh.

What did you just say, I suppose?

What was that, I suppose?

Uh-oh...

I think I'm gonna puke...

The nightmare from when I rode the ferry

The nightmare from elementary school when I rode the ferry

on our school trip to the ocean just came back to me.

during the class trip to the ocean just came back to me.

Shit, the world is swaying...

Shit, the world is spinning...

It's still swaying even now...

It's still going.

Just keep still and get a little more fresh air, I suppose.

Just stay calm and enjoy the breeze for a while longer, I suppose.

Leave the Songstress Maniac to those three.

Leave the Songstress Maniac to the others.

Hang on!

Did they know about my seasickness and use it to separate me from Emilia-tan?!

Did you know about my seasickness and use it to separate me from Emilia-tan?!

She won't suffer one bit from the absence of your bungling self, I suppose.

She'll manage just fine without carrying your dead weight, I suppose.

Oh, damn it!

I'm still a little unsteady, but this is manageable.

I'm still a little dizzy, but I'll manage.

As long as I'm holding your hand, the heartwarming power cancels it out.

As long as I'm holding your hand, the heartwarming effect cancels it out.

What a smooth talker.

You sure know how to talk to a lady.

But if anything happens, Betty will handle it, I suppose.

But if anything happens, I'll handle it, I suppose.

Cool! I'm counting on you!

Great! I'm counting on you!

Now, let's get back to them before Emilia misses me and starts bawling!

Now, let's get back to them before Emilia gets all lonely and starts crying!

So...

The Muse Company...

Is this the right way to get there by land?

Is this the right way to get there on foot?

Yes, it should be.

Didn't we pass by here before, though?

You're not...

lost, are you?

N-No, I am not lost, I suppose!

But if you're worried, we could ask someone for directions, just in case.

But if you're worried, we could ask someone for directions, just to be sure.

Yeah, yeah. You're adorable.

There's no one around at all, though...

There's no one here to ask, though...

I wander with no destination

Wow...

No money, no future

No dreams, even

No dreams either

All I have is my pride

All I have is my vanity

Hang on...

What the hell? These lyrics are actually terrible!

What the hell? These lyrics are actually awful!

I'm just a pathetic person

Eh?

Huh?

Oh, crap! I killed the mood!

Oh, crap! I didn't read the room!

You idiot! Where is your tact, I suppose?!

You idiot! How unrefined, I suppose?!

You ruined it!

You've completely ruined it!

Keep your complaining to yourself!

Keep your complaints to yourself!

What's your problem?!

Don't interrupt!

Dumbass!

Boy, that sucked.

Well that was horrific.

It's been a year since I accepted my impending death like that.

I haven't stared death in the face like that in over a year.

Don't blame me.

I'm not using healing magic on you, I suppose.

Ask Emilia to do it.

But you always get grumpy when I ask Emilia-tan to heal me.

But you always get upset when I ask Emilia-tan to heal me.

Oh, uh, sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt your—

Oh, uh, sorry. I wasn't trying to interrupt your—

A song has come to me!

Such inspiration!

Eh?

Here's my new song, "Doo Wah Wah: Age Differences in Love"!

Here's my new song, "Doo Wah Wah: The Age Gap in Love"!

You know, I see it and feel it

The age difference in our love

Everyone says it's weird,

But that doesn't bother me

Hey, wait up, please

Wait just a little longer, just a little longer

Wait just a little longer,

A little longer

Just a little longer

If I stand up straight, I can reach you

If I stand up straight, I can almost reach you

The distance between us in our love

Love's distance that melts so sweetly

Love's distance, growing smaller and smaller

Becoming a love that burns silently

Silently igniting into a burning love

In time, the stork will visit us

Before long, the stork will pay a visit

And bring us a child

And deliver a child

The future is bright in our love story

The future is bright in our love story!

Huh?!

Wait! Wait a minute, I suppose!

Wait! Wait just a minute, I suppose!

Why did you suddenly jump in on her song?!

Why did you suddenly turn that into a duet?!

And it was weird of you to just accept it so naturally, I suppose!

And there's something strange about the way you just went with it, I suppose!

C'mon, what're you talking about, Beako?

Songs transcend national borders.

Music transcends all barriers, you know?

What a nice story!

What a lovely sentiment!

Liliana here is trembling with emotion!

You've shaken this Liliana the core!

Not actually trembling, though.

Well... maybe not that moved, but still.

It feels like I'm the one in the wrong, and I won't accept it!

I don't like how it feels like I'm the one in the wrong here!

Oops! I haven't introduced myself!

I'm a bard making a living with only this lyulyre and my voice.

I'm a bard making a living with only my voice and my trusty Lyulyre.

My name is Liliana.

It's a pleasure to meet y—

She bit her tongue, I suppose.

Tho thorry.

Thorry.

I bith my thung thuper hard.

Could it be that she...

Could it be that she's...

Hey, by any chance, are you the "Songstress" who's so famous around here?

Hey, by any chance, are you the "Songstress" who everyone's talking about around here?

Um, um, it's a little embarrassing to be called that, but... yes.

Um, um, the name is a little embarrassing, but... yes.

Then you know about the guy from the Muse Company they call the "Songstress Maniac," right?

Then you must know about the Songstress Maniac of the Muse Company, right?

I don't mind showing you the way,

but you listened to my song, so you should pay me!

but you really shouldn't listen to one of the Songstress' song without paying!

I thought you were embarrassed to be called "Songstress."

I thought you were embarrassed to be called Songstress.

That and this are totally different.

That's a completely different matter.

You're not trying to get away with listening for free, are you?

Sir, you aren't trying to sneak in a free listen, are you?

Okay, fine. How much do you want?

Oh, as much as you feel led to give!

Oh, as much as your heart desires!

As much as you can.

Make it everything you've got.

Don't try to force me into it!

My heart can't desire that much!

Oh, what a thing to say!

Oh, how could you say such a thing!

Oh! A song has come to me!

Inspiration strikes again!

Here's my new song, "Crushing Waves, High Waves, Society's Ups and Downs"!

Here's my new song, "Rough Waves, High Waves, Society's Waves"!

Enough of that!

That's enough of that!

And while we were talking about that, we've arrived!

Huh, so this is it?

Yes! Now, listen to my last song of the day:

Yes! And now for the final song of the day:

"Happy-Go-Lucky Life"!

You're pretty amazing, you know that?

No one has creeped me out this much with just their words and behavior since Petelgeuse.

I haven't met anyone this creepy and off-putting since Petelgeuse.

Oho? I don't know who that is,

but this Petelgeuse-san sounds like he has promise!

but this Petelgeuse fellow sounds rather promising!

If I ever run into him somewhere,

he may be the most worthy rival I'll see in my life!

he might just turn into a lifelong rival!

He's a Sin Archbishop in the Witch's Cult.

He's a Sin Archbishop of the Witch's Cult.

Huh?!

Whoa, whoa, whoa! Wait up!

You're not the one they call...

Could it be that you're the one they call...

"Natsuki Subaru the Little Girl User," are you?!

Could you be "Natsuki Subaru, the Girl Whisperer"?!

Uh, I have some objections to that nickname.

Your support in Duchess Crusch Kursten's subjugation of the White Whale,

Your part in Duchess Crusch Kursten's subjugation of the White Whale,

one of the Three Great Mabeasts, was extraordinarily powerful!

one of the Three Great Demon beasts, was the stuff of legends!

The groomsman of history, whom even the Sword Demon Wilhelm called his savior!

Even the Sword Demon Wilhelm acknowledged you as his savior!

And with the help of Duchess Kursten and Lady Anastasia of the Hoshin Company,

you shook the whole world by taking down the Witch Cult's Sin Archbishop of Sloth,

you liberated the world by defeating the Witch Cult's Sin Archbishop of Sloth,

and even slew the Great Rabbit, another of the Three Great Mabeasts!

and even slew the Great Rabbit, another of the Three Great Demon beasts!

Oh, wow! A legend... A legend stands right before my eyes!

Oh, wow! A legend... A legend stands right before my very eyes!

Miss Liliana, is something wrong?

Who are these two?

Do you know these two?

Oh, we're attendants of Emilia-sama, who's in the middle of business talks inside.

Oh, we're attendants of Lady Emilia, who's in the middle of negotiations inside.

Does that mean...

If I accommodate these business talks,

If I facilitate these business negotiations,

will the Little Girl User, Natsuki Subaru-sama, tell me all his stories?

the Girl Whisperer Natsuki Subaru, will share some of his stories with me?

Again, stop calling me that.

Again, knock it off with the nickname.

Also, what "stories"?

Also, what stories?

Oh, you know, this and that and everything!

Oh, you know, this and that and everything else!

Are all the rumors I've heard about you really true?

I want to know how many of the rumors are true.

I wanna know! I wanna hear! I wanna sing about it!

I wanna know it! I wanna hear it! And I wanna sing it!

Then I might be able to sing a heroic tale that will be handed down among future generations!

With that, I might be able to sing a heroic tale that will be passed down future generations!

Now, let's go!

To weigh honor against empathy on the scales and then shatter 'em

Liliana Masquerade is one who always puts duty before emotions!

is the way of Liliana Masquerade!

What would that even accomplish?

What do you accomplish by shattering them?

Kiritaka is head-over-heels for me and would do anything for me,

Kiritaka-san is head-over-heels for me and would do anything for me,

so if I get in the room, his negotiating tactics will fall apart in shambles!

so if I talk to him, those business talks should go crashing right forward!

Yeah, it definitely won't go that smoothly.

That's not what successful business talks should do!

Oh, it'll be fine!

No need to worry! Leave it to me!

No need to worry! Leave it all to me!

Hey, hang on! Wait up!

Please.

I implore you to let me have the magic crystal.

Seriously, come on!

Just chill out! Wait a minute!

Cool it! Wait a minute!

Please, just leave this to me!

Please, just leave it to me!

L-Liliana? What's going on?

L-Liliana? What's this?

Please, make me a woman!

Subaru?

H-Hey, Emilia-tan! Fancy meeting you here!

There's nothing fancy about all the noise you're making.

There's nothing fancy about the scene you're causing.

Huh? Kiritaka-san?

Huh? Kiritaka?

...off her.

Huh?

G-G...

G-Get your...

hands off my Liliana!

filthy hands off my Liliana!

What possessed you to get all touchy-feely with the Songstress

Why in the world were you getting all handsy with the Songstress

right in front of a guy they call the "Songstress Maniac"?

right in front of the guy they call the Songstress Maniac?

I wasn't getting touchy-feely!

I wasn't even doing anything particularly handsy!

Looked like you were rasslin' with her.

It sure looked like you were rasslin' with her.

I wasn't!

The hell I was!

You ruined the deal we were just about to make.

Thanks to you, the deal we were just about to make is in tatters.

Well, Subaru didn't mean any harm.

Emilia-tan! Tell him more!

Emilia-tan! You tell him!

You should still be sorry, Subaru.

You should show some remorse, Subaru.

Right. Sorry.

Right. I'm sorry.

Whatever will I do with you?

I'm so sorry!

Don't worry about it.

I wasn't paying attention myself.

I found myself captivated by you for a moment.

I found myself momentarily captivated by you.

Um...

That lovely silver hair of yours...

Okay, stop! No more of that!

Okay, stop! That's far enough!

We'll agree with your kind concession that there was a lack of attention on both sides.

We'll just agree that both sides were careless.

Let us be on our way for today.

Now, if you'll excuse us.

Wait, Subaru. You shouldn't sound so insincere.

Wait, Subaru. You shouldn't be insincere.

It's fine. Okay?

I give thanks for our meeting.

I'm grateful for our meeting.

How thoughtful of the water city to arrange it for us.

Well, thanks for that courteous display.

Your courtesy is appreciated.

You're right. My reasons for clinging to all of you are shallow, for now.

You're right. For the time being, I have little reason to cling to you all.

When another opportunity arises, fate will bring us back together on its own.

Should another opportunity arise, fate will bring us back together.

I agree.

Agreed.

Well, here's hoping fate brings us back together tomorrow.

Well, let's hope fate reunites us tomorrow.

What's up, Emilia-tan?

What's wrong, Emilia-tan?

Oh, just... That man...

Oh, it's just that man...

I feel as if I've met him somewhere before...

I feel as though I've met him before.

In any case, as for our negotiations with the Songstress Maniac,

Anyway, as for our negotiations with the Songstress Maniac,

let's rethink our strategy for tomorrow.

let's rethink our plan of action for tomorrow.

I have some business to attend to, so I'll be off for awhile.

I have things to do, so I'll go on my own from here.

Business?

Things to do?

Yes. Since I've come all the way to Priestella,

I should use this time to make my rounds.

I'll use the opportunity to connect with some people.

He sure is passionate about his work.

The hell?

I smell someone gettin' right pissed off at the inn.

Don't make me repeat myself!

Don't make me say it again!

Quit being a smart-ass and get your master in here right now!

Quit spouting off and go get your master out here now!

I wouldn't bring my brother before a boor like you, much less my master.

I wouldn't bring my brother before a ruffian as crude as you, much less my master.

Please leave now.

You're just a clueless brat! I oughta pound you!

You just don't know how to listen, do you, brat?! I oughta slap you around!

That's enough!

Emilia-sama! You're back already?

Lady Emilia! You're back already?

What happened here?

What's going on here?

Just calm down and talk it out.

Just take a breath and talk things out.

I'll tell you what happened here!

Screw this and everything else!

This brat's telling me he's not gonna let me inside!

This punk's telling me he's not gonna let me inside!

Hey, I knew I'd seen you somewhere before.

You're Dumber!

You're Jessie!

Who're you callin' Dumber?!

Who the hell is Jessie?!

I have a name, you know! It's Rachins!

I got

Rachins? Yep, that's even dumber, all right.

Shaddup!

You know him, Subaru?

He's an old acquaintance from the capital.

He and his two buddies tried to rob me of all I had.

From all Betty

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Hell yeah! Cleared it!
Subaru.
Well fought, I suppose.
Oh, perfect! Thanks!
It's a little chilled, even! I feel alive again!
You can thank Petra personally for that.
It would make her leap with delight, I suppose.
It's already been a year since we entered into our contract, huh?
Time sure flies.
And my Beako is as cute as ever today.
I'm getting all emotional.
But of course Betty is adorable!
I've gotten a lot stronger over the past year, too.
Hee-hee, I suppose!
You really got me! That was a funny joke, I suppose!
I didn't mean it as a joke, actually!
Just look at this secret training facility!
It's packed with tough attractions that would make most adults throw in the towel,
and I can get through them all flawlessly now!
You're definitely exaggerating.
You and Garfiel are the only ones who call it a "secret training facility," I suppose.
I'll get you for that!
Eek!
This is spirit abuse, I suppose!
You are an absolutely heinous contractor!
Subaru-sama! Beatrice-chan!
There's a visitor at the mansion!
Big Sister Emilia said she wants you both there.
An unexpected visitor...
An adorable Emilia-tan asking for me...
I smell an incident! Don't you?
More like another big headache, I suppose.
Hey, Bro! It's you!
How've you been?!
Mimi!
It's been ages! How've you been?
Super great!
I also got taller! I'm a grown-up woman now!
No one who takes a flying leap onto my head the moment they see me is a grown-up!
But anyway, thanks for coming so far out here.
Incidentally, if you're here, then...
Hey, Bro,
you don't need to worry.
Julius isn't with me today.
So you're finally here, Barusu.
It took you long enough.
What a pervert.
You're the pervert if you think this scene is anything but heartwarming!
Hah.
You should stop deciding what things are based on your own personal opinions.
I suggest you remember this, Barusu.
In my evaluation, my personal opinion rules.
You seem to have conflicting views about personal opinion!
Hey, what took ya so long, Boss?
Get in here already.
Otto-nii and Emilia-sama ain't much of a welcoming party.
They're more like a comedy duo in here.
That sounds like something I'd want to watch for a while.
Stop being stupid and get in there.
And this is him?
Yes, that's right.
Sorry to keep you waiting.
This is my knight, Natsuki Subaru.
"This is my knight."
Is something the matter?
I went on a little trip there.
I'm very sorry about that.
I am, per Emilia-sama's introduction,
her knight, Natsuki Subaru.
Thank you for your courtesy.
I'm—
I have come here as a messenger for Anastasia Hoshin-sama.
My name is Joshua Euclius.
Euclius?
Oh, I guess that surprised you, too!
That's right!
Joshua is Julius's younger brother!
Huh?!
Natsuki-dono, yes?
My brother has spoken of you.
I have heard all sorts of rumors, as well.
Oh, okay. You're Julius's kid brother.
You do have that same nast— I mean, sharp look in your eyes,
and the same cynic—I mean, refined curve to your lips,
and the same devi— I mean, lovely hair color.
Could you just stop talking? It's obvious you're forcing it.
Anyway, sorry I kept you waiting.
Keep talking.
W-Wait just a moment! Who is that young girl?
Is there a problem with Betty, I suppose?
That's Beako.
She's Sis and Bro's baby.
What?!
That's right! This is Emilia-tan's and I's adorable baby, Beatrice—
She is not! Stop scaring poor Joshua!
I know I've kissed you before,
but kissing doesn't make a baby!
I studied up on that!
Er, sorry, Emilia-tan.
I feel like you're going to expose some wild truths while you're being so frank.
Please stop, okay? I was wrong!
Um...
So just what is the purpose of the young lady Beatrice's presence?
Beatrice is a great spirit that I have a contract with.
A great spirit?
Yo, visitor.
You got some kinda problem with my boss bringin' a spirit in here?
No, I had heard the rumors.
I was just surprised to learn that he truly is a spirit knight.
As I believe you know, my brother is also a spirit knight—
the top spirit knight in the whole country!
Yeah, of course I know that.
He's done a lot... to...
A lot... to... help us out...
You're really so against admitting that he's helped you?!
Betty is aware that there are other knight-and-spirit pairs besides us.
I've heard that he is quite a promising one, I suppose.
But of course! My brother is an amazing man!
At the mere age of 22, he's the star of the Imperial Knights,
as well as the Royal Guard's second-in-command!
He may be currently separated from his role,
but once Anastasia-sama assumes the throne,
he is guaranteed to become captain!
Even the current Master Swordsman, Reinhard,
can't hold a candle to my brother's knightly ways!
My brother is, indeed, a true knight!
R-Right.
I'm officially turned off.
You really love your big brother Julius, don't you?
I-I apologize. I lose all restraint when it comes to my family.
Whatever. Just get to the damn point already.
They say baumbehm tastes better the longer it ages, but there's a limit, y'know?
Baumbehm?!
I love baumbehm! It's yummy!
Wanna eat some together?
S-Sure...
Okay! It's a promise!
Many pardons.
I will now deliver the message my master, Anastasia Hoshin-sama,
has sent for Emilia-sama.
Anastasia-sama would like to invite Emilia-sama to the Watergate City of Priestella.
The Watergate City of Priestella?
What business does she have with her, exactly?
This is an invitation to a party.
Anastasia-sama says that, out of the goodness of her heart,
she has found what Emilia-sama seeks.
What I... seek?
Yes.
It seems a merchant in Priestella has the magic crystal you desire.
Magic crystal?
Yes.
You are in search of a catalyst for recalling a great spirit, are you not?
Bye, Garf!
I'll be waiting in Pri-Pri!
You better come!
Looks like she's really taken to you, Garfiel.
Not like I'm happy 'bout that!
But you don't seem particularly upset about it.
Yeah? Like hell I'm not!
You just can't be honest, can you?
I am being honest!
Frankly, I'm a little afraid to end up owing a debt to Anastasia-san.
What kind of city is Priestella, anyway?
Is it famous?
Priestella is one of the five biggest cities in Lugunica.
It's right on the border with the city-state of Kararagi.
There are canals running throughout the city,
and it's supposed to be really beautiful.
Oh, so it's a city on the water, huh?
In terms of the world I know, I guess it's like Venice.
I don't know what "Venice" is,
but Priestella isn't a city on the water. It's the Watergate City.
Watergate City?
Yes. It's in the middle of a lake,
and when it rains, the whole city ends up underwater.
So the city is surrounded by tall walls,
and there are several watergates that control the water level.
That changes my image of it from a water capital to a water prison.
What do you think she wants to bring you there for?
Is it wrong to believe that maybe she was just being nice?
I hate to say it, but all the royal selection candidates have their peculiarities.
Right...
But...
I have so many things I want to tell Puck, and lots of questions, too.
So...
You'd better get your butt back here soon, cat spirit!
I've got a hell of a lot of grudges to take out on you, too.
I'm sorry I have to leave the mansion at such an important time.
Oh, not at all.
I have every intention of honoring your will, Emilia-sama.
Even if this is a terribly busy time,
with the assembly of the western nobles and all.
Truly, Master, you show no signs of remorse whatsoever.
My, how harsh of you, Frederica.
But of course.
Frankly, it worries me a bit to send you and Subaru-kun there alone,
but if Garfiel and Otto-kun are with you, you should be fine.
I don't need to worry about Otto-kun making any silly mistakes in negotiations,
and in the worst case, Garfiel can destroy anything to help you all flee.
That seems like it'd cause major problems in itself!
I'll do my very best, I promise!
You have nothing to worry about, Emilia-tan.
Whether we're up against Anastasia-san or Julius,
when it comes to throwing up smokescreens in a conversation, I'm first-rate!
I'm not sure that's something to brag about.
So is it safe to assume that Ram will be staying behind at the mansion?
Yes, as you wish, Roswaal-sama.
Sounds like everything's decided.
I'll be counting on you, Beatrice, to watch over the four of them.
Mew?!
I don't need you to tell me that, I suppose!
Y'know what?!
Despite how I might look, I'm thinkin' about all o' you guys!
You're basically an internal affairs officer at this point, huh?
Why're you lookin' at me with such pity?
Hey, relax, Otto-nii.
Boss ain't the type to tease people too much.
He settled on ten Ottos a day before, remember?
What's "ten Ottos a day" s'posed ta mean?!
I'm coming in.
Rem...
Looks like I won't be able to see you for a while.
But I've got lots of things to tell you today.
An uninvited guest brought us a huge new problem to deal with, y'know...
Before we see Anastasia-sama,
let me tell you all about where the royal selection currently stands.
Right.
At first,
Duchess Crusch Kursten and Anastasia Hoshin-sama
were seen as the top pick and leading rival.
The other three, including Emilia-sama...
If I may be blunt,
most thought you were just there to balance the numbers.
Yes, I think that's undeniable.
But over this past year, at the very least,
opinions of you on the street have changed.
Your achievements in working with two powerful forces
to take out the White Whale and a Sin Archbishop played a big role in that.
The other two number-balancing candidates, especially Priscilla,
have made striking progress, as well.
After she inherited her late husband's territory,
influential people who were concerned about the state of affairs surrounding her
very quickly joined her side.
And given her beauty and temperament that allow her to manipulate folks so easily,
she is now revered as the "Sun Princess" and gains momentum by the day.
And Felt's only strength early on was her knight,
the Master Swordsman, Reinhard von Astrea.
But the ones she set her sights on
were people who had considerable talents, but troubled personalities,
and those who already bore wounds.
She proactively brought them to her side,
and with her flexible ideas and perspectives,
she initiated massive reforms in the domain.
So during the past year, no pieces have fallen off the board.
Except...
Since Duchess Crusch Kursten lost her memories
in the battle against the Witch's Cult,
her outlook is not favorable.
Meanwhile, Anastasia is the only candidate who hasn't lost any momentum,
neither before nor after the royal selection began.
Anastasia-san has a big business called the Hoshin Company backing her, right?
Yes.
Their weapon is their wealth.
Striking with their financial might is their best move.
So this invitation from Anastasia,
and on top of that, the likelihood of becoming indebted to her...
Do you see just how much this is making my stomach hurt now?
I finally have a good idea now.
I apologize for my willful actions.
As long as you understand, it's all right.
And there's no need to worry about all these things alone.
It's just like this dragon-drawn carriage.
Like the dragon-drawn carriage? How?
Natsuki-san is the one holding the reins right now.
Beatrice-chan is watching him to make sure he doesn't neglect his duty.
Garfiel is keeping an eye on our surroundings.
I'm the one who came up with the carriage's itinerary.
And you talk to all of us, telling us we're doing a good job,
as we laboriously make our way to Priestella.
The way you said that sounded a lot like Subaru.
What?! Really?!
I don't like that...
Hey, Otto, what's up? No fair!
What're you getting so hyped up about with my Emilia-tan?
Beako, take the reins for a minute!
Wait! I can't!
Stop it, I suppose! Subaru! Subaru!
Yo, Boss! What're ya doin'?!
Ya sure that's a good idea?!
Subaru! Wait!
Subaru!

They're awfully strict about just letting people enter and leave.
This is feeling more and more like a water prison.
Wow...
Damn, this really is a hell of a view.
Priestella is a city that was built on top of a lake
using 400-year-old technology.
Its construction is strange,
but considering that the city itself was meant to be a trap,
it makes sense that they built it so the water
would easily collect in the center, I suppose.
The city itself was a trap?
That sounds so insidious...
Were they trying to trap mabeasts or what?
No one knows.
There are no records explaining what the trap was for, I suppose.
Man, this place is seriously a maze, though.
The city was built around the canals,
so the parts on land ended up very complicated.
Dragon-drawn boats are more common than dragon-drawn carriages here.
"Wings on the Water."
What a strangely-shaped building.
This is our lodging? It looks more like a traditional Japanese inn.
Y'all sure seem surprised.
Makes me glad I chose this place for ya.
Anastasia-san.
Hiya. Welcome to Priestella.
Thanks for comin'.
Good to see you again, Julius.
Lovely to see you as well, Emilia-sama.
It's been a long time since I last saw you.
Wouldn't you agree the view is magnificent, Natsuki Subaru-dono?
Subaru-dono, my ass.
I see right through you.
So you may say, but you hold a position worthy of the honorific now.
I only treated you with the appropriate respect.
Yeah, like hell!
You're creeping me out! Can the sarcasm!
I see.
Your status may have changed,
but it seems to have had little effect on your disposition.
Uh, everyone... It's all well and good to rekindle old friendships, but...
You are...
I'm—
Please accept my most sincere apologies.
I had no idea such a high-ranking great spirit as yourself was accompanying them.
I'll introduce you to him, okay?
This is Beatrice, the loli—I mean, spirit that I'm contracted with.
As Subaru's partner, it is only natural that Betty is here with him, I suppose.
I am of an entirely different status, rank, and cuteness than the ordinary spirits you keep around.
And bearing that firmly in mind...
Might I request some delicious tea and pastries, I suppose?
Don't abandon your dignity right at the end!
Garf! You're here!
Why didn't Milady tell me?!
Let's go explore the inn!
I'll show you around!
Hey, hang on! I'm not done talkin' yet!
Damn, you're strong!
Let's go! Right now!
Guess we should go, too.
What're you stiffening up for?
Oh, it doesn't matter.
It doesn't matter...
This place feels so strange.
We're sitting on the floor,
and we even took off our shoes.
I bet there are no bedrooms or beds, just futons to lay on the floor.
I wonder if we're expected to wear yukata indoors, too.
Subaru, you really seem to know a lot about this place.
You sure do.
Where did ya study up so much on Kararagi's style?
Kararagi's style? You mean this inn?
Yep. This sort of Wafuu architecture is traditional in Kararagi.
Wafuu architecture?
I can't get over how familiar that sounds...
Priestella was built by Hoshin, one of the great men who founded Kararagi.
Hoshin?
Also known as Hoshin of the Wilderness.
Ever since he lived 400 years ago,
he's been known for his innovative creativity and advanced ideas.
Hoshin of the Wilderness...
He was probably summoned from another world,
specifically Japan, just like me.
Anastasia-sama, the preparations are complete.
Thanks, Joshua.
Now, shall we get to the topic you've all been waitin' for?
The magic crystal you're lookin' for
is in the hands of the heir to the biggest trade company in this city.
Joshua has arranged a dragon-drawn boat to take y'all to the Muse Company.
The heir to the Muse Company?
Yep. He's a gifted businessman himself,
but in this city, he's known by another name.
Another name?
Yep. The Man Whose Heart Was Stolen by the Songstress.
In other words...
The Songstress Maniac.
I've never ridden a boat over water before!
I'm kind of excited!
The Songstress Maniac? He's gotta be a weirdo.
Huh?
Is that canal flowing in a different direction?
Are you surprised?
I actually know this one.
Look there.
That's the control tower that controls the flow of all the water in the city.
The tower overall is a metia of very complex construction.
It uses water magic stones to control the water flow.
Incidentally, getting the water dirty here is severely penalized,
so please be careful.
Especially Garfiel, the one who's been staring at the water looking terrified this whole time.
It ain't like I'm scared of water or anything!
I just don't wanna turn out like a wet cat, that's all!
Then could you loosen up your death grip on my cloak?
It sounds like it's going to rip.
Good grief. You're all getting too carried away.
You should learn from the much more ladylike Betty's exampl—
Subaru?
Uh-oh.
What did you just say, I suppose?
Uh-oh...
I think I'm gonna puke...
The nightmare from when I rode the ferry
on our school trip to the ocean just came back to me.
Shit, the world is swaying...
It's still swaying even now...
Just keep still and get a little more fresh air, I suppose.
Leave the Songstress Maniac to those three.
Hang on!
Did they know about my seasickness and use it to separate me from Emilia-tan?!
She won't suffer one bit from the absence of your bungling self, I suppose.
Oh, damn it!
I'm still a little unsteady, but this is manageable.
As long as I'm holding your hand, the heartwarming power cancels it out.
What a smooth talker.
But if anything happens, Betty will handle it, I suppose.
Cool! I'm counting on you!
Now, let's get back to them before Emilia misses me and starts bawling!
So...
The Muse Company...
Is this the right way to get there by land?
Yes, it should be.
Didn't we pass by here before, though?
You're not...
lost, are you?
N-No, I am not lost, I suppose!
But if you're worried, we could ask someone for directions, just in case.
Yeah, yeah. You're adorable.
There's no one around at all, though...
I wander with no destination
Wow...
No money, no future
No dreams, even
All I have is my pride
Hang on...
What the hell? These lyrics are actually terrible!
I'm just a pathetic person
Eh?
Oh, crap! I killed the mood!
You idiot! Where is your tact, I suppose?!
You ruined it!
Keep your complaining to yourself!
What's your problem?!
Don't interrupt!
Dumbass!
Boy, that sucked.
It's been a year since I accepted my impending death like that.
Don't blame me.
I'm not using healing magic on you, I suppose.
Ask Emilia to do it.
But you always get grumpy when I ask Emilia-tan to heal me.
Oh, uh, sorry. I didn't mean to interrupt your—
A song has come to me!
Eh?
Here's my new song, "Doo Wah Wah: Age Differences in Love"!
You know, I see it and feel it
The age difference in our love
Everyone says it's weird,
But that doesn't bother me
Hey, wait up, please
Wait just a little longer, just a little longer
Just a little longer
If I stand up straight, I can reach you
The distance between us in our love
Love's distance that melts so sweetly
Love's distance, growing smaller and smaller
Becoming a love that burns silently
In time, the stork will visit us
And bring us a child
The future is bright in our love story
Huh?!
Wait! Wait a minute, I suppose!
Why did you suddenly jump in on her song?!
And it was weird of you to just accept it so naturally, I suppose!
C'mon, what're you talking about, Beako?
Songs transcend national borders.
What a nice story!
Liliana here is trembling with emotion!
Not actually trembling, though.
It feels like I'm the one in the wrong, and I won't accept it!
Oops! I haven't introduced myself!
I'm a bard making a living with only this lyulyre and my voice.
My name is Liliana.
It's a pleasure to meet y—
She bit her tongue, I suppose.
Tho thorry.
I bith my thung thuper hard.
Could it be that she...
Hey, by any chance, are you the "Songstress" who's so famous around here?
Um, um, it's a little embarrassing to be called that, but... yes.
Then you know about the guy from the Muse Company they call the "Songstress Maniac," right?
I don't mind showing you the way,
but you listened to my song, so you should pay me!
I thought you were embarrassed to be called "Songstress."
That and this are totally different.
You're not trying to get away with listening for free, are you?
Okay, fine. How much do you want?
Oh, as much as you feel led to give!
As much as you can.
Don't try to force me into it!
Oh, what a thing to say!
Oh! A song has come to me!
Here's my new song, "Crushing Waves, High Waves, Society's Ups and Downs"!
Enough of that!
And while we were talking about that, we've arrived!
Huh, so this is it?
Yes! Now, listen to my last song of the day:
"Happy-Go-Lucky Life"!
You're pretty amazing, you know that?
No one has creeped me out this much with just their words and behavior since Petelgeuse.
Oho? I don't know who that is,
but this Petelgeuse-san sounds like he has promise!
If I ever run into him somewhere,
he may be the most worthy rival I'll see in my life!
He's a Sin Archbishop in the Witch's Cult.
Huh?!
Whoa, whoa, whoa! Wait up!
You're not the one they call...
"Natsuki Subaru the Little Girl User," are you?!
Uh, I have some objections to that nickname.
Your support in Duchess Crusch Kursten's subjugation of the White Whale,
one of the Three Great Mabeasts, was extraordinarily powerful!
The groomsman of history, whom even the Sword Demon Wilhelm called his savior!
And with the help of Duchess Kursten and Lady Anastasia of the Hoshin Company,
you shook the whole world by taking down the Witch Cult's Sin Archbishop of Sloth,
and even slew the Great Rabbit, another of the Three Great Mabeasts!
Oh, wow! A legend... A legend stands right before my eyes!
Miss Liliana, is something wrong?
Who are these two?
Oh, we're attendants of Emilia-sama, who's in the middle of business talks inside.
Does that mean...
If I accommodate these business talks,
will the Little Girl User, Natsuki Subaru-sama, tell me all his stories?
Again, stop calling me that.
Also, what "stories"?
Oh, you know, this and that and everything!
Are all the rumors I've heard about you really true?
I wanna know! I wanna hear! I wanna sing about it!
Then I might be able to sing a heroic tale that will be handed down among future generations!
Now, let's go!
To weigh honor against empathy on the scales and then shatter 'em
is the way of Liliana Masquerade!
What do you accomplish by shattering them?
Kiritaka-san is head-over-heels for me and would do anything for me,
so if I talk to him, those business talks should go crashing right forward!
That's not what successful business talks should do!
Oh, it'll be fine!
No need to worry! Leave it to me!
Hey, hang on! Wait up!
Please.
I implore you to let me have the magic crystal.
Seriously, come on!
Just chill out! Wait a minute!
Please, just leave this to me!
L-Liliana? What's going on?
Please, make me a woman!
Subaru?
H-Hey, Emilia-tan! Fancy meeting you here!
There's nothing fancy about all the noise you're making.
Huh? Kiritaka-san?
...off her.
Huh?
G-G...
G-Get your...
hands off my Liliana!
What possessed you to get all touchy-feely with the Songstress
right in front of a guy they call the "Songstress Maniac"?
I wasn't getting touchy-feely!
Looked like you were rasslin' with her.
I wasn't!
You ruined the deal we were just about to make.
Well, Subaru didn't mean any harm.
Emilia-tan! Tell him more!
You should still be sorry, Subaru.
Right. Sorry.
Whatever will I do with you?
I'm so sorry!
Don't worry about it.
I wasn't paying attention myself.
I found myself captivated by you for a moment.
Um...
That lovely silver hair of yours...
Okay, stop! No more of that!
We'll agree with your kind concession that there was a lack of attention on both sides.
Let us be on our way for today.
Wait, Subaru. You shouldn't sound so insincere.
It's fine. Okay?
I give thanks for our meeting.
How thoughtful of the water city to arrange it for us.
Well, thanks for that courteous display.
You're right. My reasons for clinging to all of you are shallow, for now.
When another opportunity arises, fate will bring us back together on its own.
I agree.
Well, here's hoping fate brings us back together tomorrow.
What's up, Emilia-tan?
Oh, just... That man...
I feel as if I've met him somewhere before...

Anyway, as for our negotiations with the Songstress Maniac,
let's rethink our plan of action for tomorrow.
I have things to do, so I'll go on my own from here.
Things to do?
Yes. Since I've come all the way to Priestella,
I should use this time to make my rounds.
He sure is passionate about his work.
The hell?
I smell someone gettin' right pissed off at the inn.
Don't make me repeat myself!
Quit being a smart-ass and get your master in here right now!
I wouldn't bring my brother before a boor like you, much less my master.
Please leave now.
You're just a clueless brat! I oughta pound you!
That's enough!
Emilia-sama! You're back already?
What happened here?
Just calm down and talk it out.
I'll tell you what happened here!
This brat's telling me he's not gonna let me inside!
Hey, I knew I'd seen you somewhere before.
You're Dumber!
Who're you callin' Dumber?!
I have a name, you know! It's Rachins!
Rachins? Yep, that's even dumber, all right.
Shaddup!
You know him, Subaru?
He's an old acquaintance from the capital.
He and his two buddies tried to rob me of all I had.
From all Betty has heard, you seem to be no more than trash, I suppose.
Who are you callin' trash, damn it?!
Whatever. Just leave this dude to me.
He's gonna—
Rachins. I wondered why you weren't back yet.
What's all the commotion here?
Reinhard?
Hi there. It's been a long time, Subaru.
I've heard the rumors.
Glad to see you're doing well.
Anyway, Subaru, there is much I'd like to talk about since I haven't seen you in a year...
but first, could you call him off?
He's your friend, right?
Chill out, Garfiel!
This is Reinhard.
He's my... friend.
You don't need to worry.
As he said, I'm Reinhard van Astrea.
I'd appreciate if you'd tell me your name.
Garfiel Tinzel.
Ah, so you're the one known as Emilia-sama's shield?
Glad to meet you.
Huh?!
I'm sorry if I've offended you.
I'll be more careful.
Reinhard, I'm sorry about him.
Are you all right?
Emilia-sama, it's good to see you again.
Fortunately, since his aim was true,
I was able to stop him without issue.
I've heard about Felt-chan.
It sounds like she's been very busy.
Her achievements are nowhere near as magnificent as yours.
Subaru, would you tell me the full story of the White Whale later?
I have a bit of a connection to that mabeast myself.
Yeah, sure.
But first...
You know Rachins?
Yes. He works for Felt-sama at the moment.
Rachins, I'll explain the whole thing later.
Please have Felt-sama return to the inn for now.
Yeah, yeah.
If anything happens, send up a signal.
I'll be there in five seconds.
What's scary is, that don't sound like no joke.
Looks like what happened earlier is really bothering him.
It's good medicine every now and then,
learning that there's someone better than you.
This is a good opportunity for Garfiel, I suppose.
Now, please wait here until Anastasia-sama arrives.
Pardon me.
Subaru-kyun!
Long time no see.
Felis! And Crusch-san!
Wilhelm-san!
It's been ages!
Grandfather.
So it's you, Reinhard.
Eh?
Anyway, I was surprised to hear you guys were invited here, too.
We also did not expect all of you to be here.
What a happy coincidence.
I didn't know Reinhard and Wilhelm were family.
What a surprise.
They won't look each other in the eye, though.
So why did you invite us all here, Anastasia-san?
Got yer suspicions, eh?
I genuinely just wanted to talk to y'all a little.
That's why I didn't invite the ones who don't listen.
The ones who don't listen?
You mean you haven't invited Priscilla-sama?
She really just does her own thing,
and I couldn't find an excuse to invite her, anyway.
And I've been gettin' along pretty well with Felt-san, too.
An excuse?
If someone's gonna come here,
I wanna offer 'em a gift that they'll like, y'know?
So in the case of Crusch-san's party...
The reason we came to Priestella
is because Anastasia-sama said she wanted to
discuss the Sin Archbishop representing gluttony.
It ain't like I was bein' mean to you on purpose, Natsuki-kun.
I just figured Crusch-san would have more interest in this matter than you.
You're thinking like a merchant.
It pisses me off, but I get it.
You really have grown up.
Shut up!
I'm just barely holding myself back. Don't provoke me.
Aw, don't make that scary face.
I wouldn't keep just you in the dark.
It was Crusch-san's hope, too.
Really, she's just too nice.
Of course, since it concerns my memories,
I would like to settle the score with Gluttony myself.
But I realize, Subaru-sama, that you yearn to save Rem-san.
Crusch-san...
Besides, I feel it's best to have as many people as possible with the same goal.
No hard feelings, no matter whose blade reaches him first.
Thanks. I mean that.
I'll live up to your expectations for sure.
I will. I know it.
Still, I'm certain we will get to him first.
Hey, what're you all doing here?
Surprising how little has changed after a whole year.
But I guess that goes for me, too.
Felt-sama!
I thought I prepared clothing appropriate for you to wear outside.
What happened to it?
Hah! Like I'm gonna play along with your tastes.
Going out sightseeing was an excuse.
I was just out shopping for a change of clothes.
I truly can't believe you sometimes...
Thank you for inviting me here today.
As fellow candidates in the royal selection,
let us make this a productive discussion.
And that does it for formalities!
Let me in on this, too!
This is such a weird town, isn't it?
And this building is weird.
Everything's so new and different, it wore me out.
I'll never be a match for you, Felt-san.
I'm happy to hear you're findin' everything to be new and different, though.
There's still lots more to this inn, too.
I'm melting here...
Hey, Boss.
What's up?
Sorry, but...
Mind if I step out for just a little bit?
Garfiel, you don't need to worry. You're strong.
But not the strongest.
And that ain't enough.
Eh, he'll get over it after a good night's sleep.
Peek.
Peek.
Sneak, sneak, sneak...
Sneak, sneak...
It suits me... I suppose.
Beako! What is that you're wearing?!
Betty is not quite the usual Betty right now!
Awesome! They even have yukata!
Beako's so pretty! Beako's so lovely!
You're getting too excited, Subaru.
Emilia-tan!
Subaru?
Your breathing seems rather coarse.
Do you have a fever?
A mild fever of love, maybe...
Hey!
I heard in the bath that my useless knight was mean to your blonde buddy.
Felt-sama, he and I simply had a little misunderstanding, that's all.
In truth, he is frighteningly talented for his age.
That condescension with a total lack of self-awareness isn't convincing at all.
Incidentally, Felt-sama...
That outfit suits you very well.
Ew, gross!
Y'know, Felt, it's kinda refreshing to see how roughly you treat Reinhard.
And I had ulterior motives from the start,
so in that sense, Felis and Crusch-san probably have the most ideal relationship.
It's a bit embarrassing to hear you say that.
Isn't it, Felis?
I mean, I absolutely have ulterior motives regarding you, too, so...
Huh?!
Welp, I think I'll get something to eat.
S-Subaru-sama!
Don't run away after creating this awkwardness!
You don't need to worry.
I was obviously just joking.
You really are a coward.
You know why you're able to see me, don't you?
Shut up!
Just shut your damn mouth!
That's right. You are weak.
The only reason you didn't die by my hand
is because you got just a little bit lucky.
It was pure chance that you managed to kill me.
Shut up!
But you're weak, you know?
You're just a spineless weakling, and yet...
you killed me.
Garf! There you are!
Where ya goin'?
I wanna go, too!
Hrm? Garf, you're makin' a weird face.
Did somethin' funny happen?
Does this look like a fun kinda face?!
I don't wanna talk about it, and I got no obligation to.
Doesn't talkin' about obligation and empathy and stuff make ya sound like Joshua?
I think ya don't need to be so careful.
Ya look a lot cooler when yer laughin' like a dummy!
Whaddya mean, "like a dummy"?!
You little...
Garf! Look, look!
The sunset's so pretty!
It's so red!
Yo, chill out a little!
Nope, can't!
That was quick!
Well, I guess brooding over it forever ain't gonna help.
What's up?
Nothin'.
Can't just get to be the strongest outta nowhere, that's all.
I'm still in the middle of makin' my climb!
Yeah! On the long, long uphill path to bein' the strongest!
Hey, you actually get it, don't ya?!
That's right!
That's the path to bein' the strongest!
Garf, look!
And a hup!
So yeah. That's how it's done.
Wow!
Yer so cool!
M-Mister...
Thank you very much.
Think nothin' of it.
What's your name, mister?
My name ain't important enough to give.
But if I gotta give my name anyway... I'm a tiger!
People call me "Gorgeous Tiger"!
Gorgeous Tiger...
Gorgeous Tiger!
So cool!
Gorgeous!
Can we eat all this just as it is?
Never seen any of it before, eh?
These are all foods ya can't experience if ya ain't near the Tigracy River.
This is the right way to eat this!
Yum! I missed sashimi so much!
Amazing! You're the best, Anastasia-san!
I-It tastes good?
It's delicious!
Must be 'cause it's fresh!
It's so good!
What's wrong, Beako?
I-Is this green blob poison, I suppose?
M-My nose stings!
And that's when I said,
"I know all the evil things you small fry are up to!"
So cool! I'm all a-tingle!
Wow!
So...
Is this where you guys live?
Yeah.
You went awful far for kids so young, didn't ya?
I hope my sister isn't angry.
I left without telling her.
Ah, I know just how scary older sisters are.
Right! Leave this one to me!
Really, Gorgeous Tiger?!
Fred!
S-Sis!
What were you doing?!
How much must you make me worry before you're satisfied?!
Hey, take it easy, Sis.
He meant no harm.
Cut him some—
Rafiel.
Did Fred turn up?
It appears you've been caring for my son.
I'm sorry.
Mom?
I can't eat any more...
But I could get used to this so-called "tun," I suppose...
Did I startle you?
No, I was just kinda lost in the view.
The Sword Demon just looks too perfect in a Japanese-style garden.
I like people who look good in moonlight.
I believe that is the sort of thing you should say to a woman, not to me.
How unfortunate you are.
Well, right now, the girl I want to appeal to doesn't fall for lines like that.
That sort of frustration is part of what makes love so enjoyable.
Do I smell more rambling about your amazing relationship coming on?
Would you like to hear some?
Absolutely.
In that case...
In the past, I was not as articulate as I am now.
I did not speak enough at all.
Wielding the sword was everything to me.
The things I thought before swinging the sword
and the things that swinging it made me think about
were the things that made me what I was.
My wife helped me to see this obvious truth.
Ever since then, whenever I swing a sword, I think of my wife.
Even now?
Back then and now, it was the sword that tied us to one another.
So long as I carry a sword, I will continue to think of her.
Your wife was the previous Master Swordsman, right?
In peacetime, she was an ordinary woman who loved flowers.
The heroes who leave their names upon history
are not heroes every single moment of their lives.
The same goes for you, Subaru-dono.
Your name has spread much farther than you realize.
That can't be...
I am convinced
that when there is something you cannot do alone,
you are able to see it through by gathering others who cannot do things alone.
I'm just a useless, insignificant loser, really.
Yes, and I quite like the useless, insignificant loser that you are.
Did I speak for too long?
That said, there is one thing I always think when I speak with you.
It makes me ask myself, "Why can I not speak this way with my own grandson?"
You can't get along with Reinhard?
But you're family, right?
I have three regrets in my life that I can make no excuses for.
One of those is the cause of the rift between my grandson and me.
I was irredeemably and unforgivably foolish.
I had turned my eyes away from that regret
in the name of seeking revenge for my wife.
And now that I have avenged her,
I realize that I truly ought to approach him.
But you lack the courage.
I could not be more ashamed.
Reinhard said he wanted to hear the details about the White Whale.
I don't know if the White Whale has anything to do with the awkwardness between you,
but Reinhard knows you spent over ten years avenging his grandma.
He wants to know about it.
I'm pretty sure he's looking forward
to hearing it from you.
Honestly...
I am simply no match for you, Subaru-dono.
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight...
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight.
Now, raise both arms, and...
Victory!
You seem to be in a very good mood this morning, Subaru.
Yeah, something good happened before I went to bed last night.
Really? That's great.
You seemed a bit worried yesterday.
Unlike Subaru, he's in a terrible state.
Bad hangover, Otto?
Yes... Since I came all the way to Priestella,
I saw lots of people last night and re-established connec—
Whoa, watch it!
Anyway, I haven't seen Garfiel around.
He's in kind of a sensitive state right now.
If you see him, be nice to him.
So, Otto-kun, what are your plans today?
Weren't we gonna take Liliana hostage and exchange her for the magic crystal?
For starters, you're staying here, Natsuki-san!
I won't argue about this!
Hey, you're all here.
Up pretty early this morning, aren't ya?
Huh? This guy in green wasn't here yesterday, was he?
He's our internal affairs officer.
Sorta like what Dumber is for you guys.
By the way, Felt-chan, I see Reinhard isn't with you.
I'm not a child!
He'd just drive me nuts if he was with me all the time!
Besides, I don't want to admit it, but...
If I call for him, he'll be here in one second.
Felt-sama, you called?
No, I did not!
Emilia-sama, good morning.
You, too, Subaru. Nice morning, isn't it?
Felt-chan and Reinhard get along so well!
For real. This is such a satisfying friendship scene.
What kind of disgusting thing to say is that?!
I hate it!
Morning, there.
Hey, everyone's here.
Y'all are such good buddies, huh?
Anastasia-sama.
You look more beautiful than ever this morning.
It's the ace up my sleeve.
Wait, weren't Ricardo and Mimi with you?
Ricardo has not returned.
And as for Mimi...
It seems she is accompanying Garfiel around town.
Upon learning that she hadn't returned to the inn last night,
Hetaro and Tivey ran out into town in a panic.
Hetaro does lose sight of everything else when it comes to Mimi.
But if Tivey's with him, he'll be fine.
There's somethin' I'd like to ask of you instead, Joshua.
Wh-What is it?
I want ya to deliver a letter to the main gate in Hetaro and Tivey's stead.
A very, very important letter.
Is it about Gluttony?!
Please, Joshua! You're my only hope!
Why do I have to do favors for you?
I apologize for the delay.
It appears we've arrived last.
Looks like we've got everyone here now.
So could ya bring it on in, please?
Th-This is...
Today's breakfast is a traditional Kararagi favorite:
daisukiyaki!
I-Is this okonomiyaki?!
Look, Subaru! I flipped it over perfectly!
I'm proud of this one! You can eat it!
It looks all right, I suppose.
Subaru, I'm willing to let you eat this daisukiyaki I cooked for you.
You won't have another chance like this.
Beatrice-chan...
That's way too much sauce!
And you, Emilia-sama!
Leaving it half-cooked will make people sick!
Hey, you two, how about...
you taste it yourself before offering it to someone else?
Felt-sama, the next one is ready.
Oh, great. Good job. Keep 'em coming, okay?
I feel like I just saw something I wasn't meant to see.
Good morning, citizens of Priestella.
A fine morning, isn't it?
Huh? What's this?
I'm starting my day with a cup of first-picked tea straight from Kararagi
Happens every mornin' in this city.
and a slice of baumbehm that's been aged for three years.
It's a broadcast made using a metia at the city government building.
The sweet scent of baumbehm on my windowsill under the morning sunbeams,
Broadcast via metia?
There's a broadcast every day?
and the glorious yet refreshing aroma of first-picked tea
For what purpose?
are spreading across my breakfast table.
I've heard it's there in case of emergencies.
Due to the way this city is built,
I feel today is going to be another lovely day!
evacuation routes for use in emergencies are limited.
Now, once again this morning, I have a little gift—
Huh, I see.
By the way, it was Kiritaka-san
no, a magnificent blessing for all of you!
who both proposed this broadcast and provided the metia.
It's time for our very own Songstress, Liliana Masquerade!
Oh, yeah. That's him.
Hi, everyone! Liliana here!
I intend to sing and play my heart out for you this morning,
so I hope you'll all enjoy this brief time together with me
and cheer me on!
Now, here's my song:
"The Sword Demon's Love Song, Act II"!
That—
Reinhard.
I... You know...
Yes? What is it?
I can't... seem to cook these.
If there's a trick to it, could you teach me?
Yes, of course, Grandfather.
Now, that's hardly fair.
The timing's just a little too convenient, wouldn't you say,
Dad?
Who are you?
Eh?
That's a pretty damned hostile look you're giving me, kid.
Hey!
Master Swordsman or Euclius, I don't care which.
Slice this rude little brat apart.
If I may, sir...
At the moment, both Reinhard and I
are on break from our primary roles to fulfill a special duty.
No one has the right to give us orders. Not even you, Vice Captain.
Ooh, how scary.
C'mon, you know I was just kidding.
Don't get all heated.
I may be vice captain in name only,
but I still have a basic grasp on the rules.
Vice captain in name only?
That's right. I'm just decorative.
The decorative, hated vice captain of Lugunica's Royal Guard,
the good-for-nothing Heinkel.
Someone who's hated and good for nothing shouldn't be getting all defiant.
Be calm, Subaru.
Do not let the vice captain provoke you.
Hah! That's our most brilliant knight for ya.
Definitely knows how to choose his words.
Heinkel!
Heinkel!
Just one time was enough.
I'm not so old that I'm hard of hearing.
Anyway, that was pretty heartless of ya.
I wanted to say a few words at the celebration of the White Whale's defeat, too.
Ya hear, Dad?
Heinkel, I...
Reinhard!
Same goes for you, right?
My old man here took a huge weight off your shoulders, didn't he?
After all...
He avenged the previous Master Swordsman after you killed her.
Stop it, Heinkel!
You... Just how far do you intend to...
Don't bother with the lip service now, old man.
You, of all people, are in no position to criticize me.
You were the first one to rebuke Reinhard for killing
the previous Master Swordsman, after all.
Hah! Nothing but silence when your convenient timing disappears, eh?
You're never gonna reconcile that way.
Theresia van Astrea won't let you have it that easy.
Heinkel van Astrea...
Don't add the "van," brat!
I never received that title. I'm Heinkel Astrea.
And?
What have you come here for?
Emilia?
Well, well! So you are Emilia-sama!
The half-demon princess who was flung into a battle she had no chance of winning!
How you feel about me isn't what we're talking about right now.
There's only one thing I want to know.
What did you come here for?
You're not how I heard you'd be at all.
Answer me.
For all that confidence you came in here with,
you're looking pretty lame now.
And I was lookin' forward to hearin' some fun stories.
I would prefer that this boorish man leave at once.
Do you feel better now, Vice Captain?
If you have no other business here,
I believe it would be best for all of us if you would remove yourself.
No need for that, peasant.
Took you long enough!
I was shaking in my boots when you didn't show up, Lady Priscilla.
Enough squawking.
Haven't seen this lineup in a while.
Looks like you're all getting along swimmingly.
Priscilla? You're the one who brought him here?
And who are you?
You don't remember me?!
C'mon, Princess.
That's a little mean, don't you think?
Remember the guy who humiliated himself
in public when you presented yourself at the castle?
That's the guy.
You were laughing your head off, too.
I don't recall.
Also, would I do something so inelegant as laughing my head off?
Don't just say whatever you want, Al.
You heard her, brother.
Sorry. I couldn't do enough.
You could've worked on taming her a little more over the past year!
Do your best to raise your standing with her from scratch.
Anyway, you gonna answer my question?
Was I the one who brought this peasant here, you mean?
If so, then yes. You're absolutely right.
I summoned him myself and brought him here.
What for?!
If I had to give a reason...
because it seemed like it would be amusing.
Warped familial relations and this boor clumsily trying to bring them together...
I couldn't very well let such an unsightly performance play out.
So I rewrote the script.
Quite the spectacle, wasn't it?
Priscilla!
Don't, brother. Neither of us will gain anything from duking it out here.
To hell with that!
So then you're allowed to just trample on people's hearts like that?!
Subaru...
I'm quite certain you're the only one I didn't inform about today's proceedings.
Vixen...
Once something enters someone's ear,
you can't stop it from soaking in like a teardrop.
Anyway, this old guy is Reinhard's dad, right?
Oh?
A little girl from the slums thinks she has an opinion to share with me?
I mean, this does sort of concern me.
The Astrea family estate isn't going to Reinhard, after all.
So that old man holds our lifeline in his hands.
Hah! So your brain finally caught up to that fact?
That's exactly right.
The heir to the Astrea estate is me.
I never gave that to Reinhard,
nor do I ever intend to.
Felt-sama, I...
Reinhard.
Shut up. Just stand there and look proud.
Right.
That said, your sense of impending danger is on the money,
Reinhard's little mistress.
The Astrea family belongs to me,
and I'm not going to back you.
The one I'm backing is—
Now, now, peasant.
Huh? What now, Lady Priscilla?
I'm in the middle of an important—
Shut up.
Princess, that's enough temper tantrums.
Seriously, cut me some slack.
You pulling out the Yang Sword nearly gave me a heart atta—
Schult, carry this peasant out of here.
And see that he's tended to.
Understood, Priscilla-sama.
Please excuse me, Heinkel-sama.
Hup... hup...
Schult-chan is always so brave.
So, is what the old man said true?
You're gonna run us out and go back to the domain lord?
And if that were the case, what would you do?
Accept it with teary eyes and back down quietly?
Hah!
Don't make me laugh.
No matter what anyone says,
I won't accept anything with teary eyes.
I'll make that old man concede the family estate to Reinhard.
That's fine.
My eventual victory is guaranteed,
so I want some fun and chaos on the way there.
Excite me!
That's what you minor characters are in this play for!
I'll make you weep in regret over that arrogance of yours.
Damn it! Just cool down!
I was the only one losing my temper in there!
There's no need to take it out on the floor.
You'll cause trouble for the inn's owners.
I just got pissed off all on my own.
Everyone else was calm. I'm such a loser.
Not true.
It was your rash behavior that prompted all of them to be calm.
Sometimes, your imprudence turns out to be useful.
You're not even trying to make this sound like praise, are you?
True, if it was a knightly attitude I desired,
I would be unable to praise your actions.
But...
What's this about?
Just what it looks like.
I am thanking you.
For putting your righteous indignation on display in my stead.
You're thanking me for getting pissed off for you?
Get real! What makes you think I was mad for your sake?
I was mad because they pissed me off!
If you were pissed off, too, you should have unloaded on them!
I could never treat a superior, even one like him, with such insolence.
You're always such a stiff.
While you're worrying about being "knightly,"
are you covering your heart with armor, too?
Armor on my heart, eh?
How painfully true.
That unshaven guy...
He's not gonna abuse his position as the Master Swordsman's father, is he?
I cannot rule that out.
But the primary reason lies not with the vice captain, but with Reinhard.
Or perhaps I should say it's the Astrea family.
He is Wilhelm-sama's son and the current head of the Astrea family.
What would happen if he were treated inhospitably
and became rebellious toward the kingdom?
So if Heinkel decided to go up against the kingdom,
they'll consider the Master Swordsman's household their enemy?
But that would mean the kingdom has no faith in either Reinhard or Wilhelm-san!
Fifteen years ago,
a member of the royal family was kidnapped.
So what?
At the time, Wilhelm-sama was captain of the Royal Guard,
and he was responsible for conducting the search for the missing party.
The battle fought by the previous Master Swordsman against the White Whale
happened while Wilhelm-sama was away from the capital on his search.
He missed his wife's death because of that kidnapping?
And that's why he carries such a grudge?
Why don't they understand that he's not that kind of guy?
I'm sorry.
I shouldn't have told you all this when you were unprepared to hear it.
I get that you're worried about Reinhard.
So it makes sense that you'd get mad.
No one would find it uncalled for.
Remember what I said?
You don't have to obsess over being the perfect, courteous knight all the time.
It's okay to ditch the armor and just be Juli sometimes.
Some things might even work out better
if you have that kind of flexibility.
Juli, eh?
That's a name I haven't heard in a very long time.
So this is how the sky looks, and how the wind feels,
when I'm just Juli.
Now that I think about it,
the color of the sky back then looked different from the usual.
You're not making sense.
Quit trying to sound all cool.
Say, Subaru...
What sort of super-friendly chat were you having with Julius in the garden?
You're super-wrong about us being super friendly.
What do you think it was about?
Hmm...
Where you'll go to have fun next time?
What are we, school buddies?!
We were both just keeping an eye on our enemy!
And maybe a little bit of small talk, I guess?
Doesn't that make you friends?
Nope, not friends.
That's the one thing I'm sure of.
So stubborn.
No kidding, I suppose.
Oh, there's quite a crowd over there.
It does appear so.
It looks much livelier than yesterday, I suppose.
Priscilla?!
That was a fantastic dance!
I thought my eyes were gonna pop out at your extraordinary footwork!
And your song and accompaniment certainly entertained me.
It's been a long time since I had so much fun at a bard's performance.
Well done.
Wait, what's this?
I see Natsuki-sama and Emilia-sama over there!
And the little girl, too!
Things got crazy yesterday, so we couldn't make any arrangements,
but it's a relief to see you here again today.
What are you staring at me like that for?
How rude.
I'm sorry.
It was just such a surprise to see you dancing.
I don't dance unless I feel excited enough.
This performer's song was worthy of bringing that out in me.
Seriously? You're a Liliana fangirl, too?
So you think my singing is just that amazing?
Aw, I'm blushing here!
Your singing was worthy.
Would you be interested in serving me as my personal singer?
Well, thanks so much for the offer!
I'm so honored! You're making me burst with pride!
But!
But!
I'm afraid I must decline.
Oh? And why would you decline my invitation?
I am Liliana the bard,
a mere traveler who will be carried away on the wind again one day.
No person or boundary can hold me in place.
I've made up my mind that that's the way I want to live.
And that's why you won't accept my invitation?
My mother, her mother, and her mother before her did the same thing.
We are a clan that leaves behind no physical traces,
but leaves only our song behind in people's hearts.
Just as you can't imprison the wind,
there's no one who can stop our singing.
Prisci—
Wonderful. Your faith is most impressive.
Forgive me. I was the boorish one this time.
No, no, not at all!
I should be apologizing to you!
What is it, peasant?
I'm just surprised.
I was afraid you were gonna cut Liliana in half for turning you down.
I guess I was a little surprised, too.
I always thought you were someone who'd do anything to get what she wanted.
Everything in this world belongs to me.
So there's no need for me to keep all beautiful, noble,
and worthy things directly at my side in order to appreciate them.
If this entire world is my garden,
then it doesn't matter where the bird chooses to sing.
Now, now, now! It looks like everyone's calmed down,
so I'll perform a song in commemoration of our friendship!
And after the song, we'll have a nice chat!
Natsuki-sama, don't you think you should prepare
some snacks for us to enjoy during that time?
And after the song, we'll have a nice chat!
Natsuki-sama, don't you think you should prepare
some snacks for us to enjoy during that time?
What is this?
The kind of choose-your-own-adventure where I can't move on until I say yes?
I'm really getting sloppy...
Oh, sorry about that.
Hey, c'mon, bro. Is that how you apologize to someone?
Where's the sinceri—
Oh, it's you, Dumber.
Again, stop calling me that!
What the hell are you doin' here, anyway?!
Hey, don't be so cold, man.
Remember when we played the game of life or death together?
I don't remember doing that! Stop getting closer!
Just hear me out. See, the thing is...
Give it a rest! You're being way too damn friendly!
My good people enjoying a pleasant chat, as well as those in a hurry!
The hell?
I apologize for the commotion.
Please bestow your attention upon me for this brief moment.
Thank you! I'm so sorry!
I am the Sin Archbishop in the Witch's Cult representing wrath...
Sirius Romanée-Conti.
Er, huh?
What'd she just say?
The Witch's Cult? It's gotta be a joke.
Hey, did you hear that?
Yeah. If it's a joke, it's not funny at all.
And that's it!
It took thirty seconds for all of you to fall silent.
Thank you for being quiet, though! I'm sorry!
You've made me so happy!
Also...
You there...
and you...
and you young men right there.
I'm sorry! Don't be so angry!
From the bottom of my heart,
I am so very sorry for taking up your precious time!
So I'm sorry! Thank you!
Yes, thank you.
It appears you've all calmed down a bit.
I understand your misgivings.
But I am only borrowing your time today
because there's something I absolutely must be certain of!
Be certain of?
I'm sorry. Please don't buzz with anxiety.
If anything is wrong, please tell me!
I would say just about anything for all of you!
Okay, can I take you up on that and ask a question?
Oh, please do! You, right there! Thank you!
I don't know what it is you want,
but I'm keeping a girl waiting. Four of them, actually.
So I'd appreciate it if you'd do whatever you're gonna do and let us go.
Oh, dear! What a pickle! I'm so sorry!
But what a smooth operator you are, young man!
Keeping four girls waiting? You bad boy!
Still, thank you. I'm sorry. I must hurry.
Nah, it's fine.
I'd appreciate it if you'd just keep calm and say what you want to say.
I'm sorry to make you worry about me! Thank you!
Then allow me to get to my original point!
The reason I appeared before you all like this!
You said there's something you want to make certain of, right?
What do you want to know?
That's right! Let's hear it already!
Better hurry up! We're gonna be late for work!
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm so, so sorry!
I'll finish this right away!
You see, the thing I want to make certain of is...
a matter of love.
Oh, I'm so embarrassed!
Could I trouble you to accompany me as I confirm this matter of love?
Sure!
Go for it!
Of course!
You mean it?!
Thank you! Thank you! I'm sorry!
The world truly is a kind place!
It's so full of kindness and love!
Every time I feel that, it makes me want to give thanks.
We can forgive each other and yield to each other.
That's why I say "thank you" and "I'm sorry" together.
Now, come on up here.
I kept you waiting a long time.
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry it's so tight,
but you're a boy, so you mustn't cry so much.
I should keep it secret, but you've even wet yourself.
It's so embarrassing for everyone to find out!
Yeah! That's embarrassing!
You're a boy, aren't you? Don't cry!
There are only three times in a boy's life when he's allowed to cry!
He may be cowering in fear right now,
but this boy is, in fact, very brave!
His name is Lusbel Kallard.
He's a nine-year-old boy who lives here in Priestella.
Oh, what a promising future you have!
You see, Lusbel-kun here has a close friend.
A little girl named Tina with the cutest blonde curls.
They have the ideal relationship, in which they care for each other deeply.
I had trouble deciding which one to bring here.
At first, I thought I'd bring Tina-chan,
but Lusbel-kun begged me so desperately not to,
and it touched my heart.
So, in recognition of his determination,
I decided to have him assist me!
Don't cry, Lusbel! You're the best!
You showed her you're a man! Now see it through!
You're going to make a fine man someday!
Lusbel! You're the pride of Priestella!
Thank you... Thank you!
Oh, this is truly wonderful!
You all understand!
He conducted himself with love, after all!
Sirius! Thank you!
Thank you... Thank you!
Rifts are born when we don't know each other.
Hostility is born when we don't share with each other.
If we give up because we're different, bonds cannot be born.
Where are all of your hearts right now?
It ain't like that!
Yeah! We won't give up on anyone!
Our hearts are one!
Thank you! Thank you!
Do you all feel that you're happy right now?
Of course!
I've never felt like this before!
Thank you, Lusbel!
And thank you, Sirius!
H-H...
Help me!
I commend you on your bravery, Lusbel-kun.
It truly does exist!
There truly is love here!
Just as all of your hearts are as one now!
Thunderous applause, please!
Ah, what a kind world!
And after the song, we'll have a nice chat!
Natsuki-sama, don't you think you should prepare
some snacks for us to enjoy during that time?
Huh? What's wrong?
Are you ignoring me? Are you?
Hey! Hey!
I feel sick.
Subaru? What's wrong?
What is it, I suppose? Subaru?
Subaru?!
I feel sick...
I feel sick...
I feel sick...
Theatrical Malice

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Hell yeah! Cleared it!
Subaru.
Good work, I suppose.
Oh, perfect! Thanks!
It even feels like it's been chilled! I feel alive again!
You can thank Petra for that.
It would make her jump for joy, I suppose.
It's already been a year since we entered into our contract, huh?
Time sure does fly.
But my Beako is as adorable as ever today.
It's so moving.
Me being adorable is a given!
I've really gotten a lot stronger over the past year, too.
Hee-hee, I suppose!
You really got me! That was a funny joke, I suppose!
I wasn't trying to make a joke, though!
Just check out this covert training facility!
It's packed with brutal obstacles that would make most adults throw in the towel,
but I've gotten to the point where I can clear them perfectly now!
That's definitely an exaggeration.
You and Garfiel are pretty much the only ones who call it a "covert training facility," I suppose.
Eek!
Now you've said it!
This is spirit abuse, I suppose!
You are an abhorrent contract holder!
Subaru! Beatrice!
There's a visitor at the mansion!
Miss Emilia said she wants you both there.
An unexpected visitor.
And the adorable Emilia-tan asking for me.
I smell trouble brewing.
More like another big headache, I suppose.
Hey, Bro! It's you!
How you been?!
Mimi!
It's been ages! How've you been?
Super great!
I also got taller! I'm a grown-up woman now!
No one who leaps onto my head the moment they see me gets to call themselves a grown-up!
But anyway, thanks for making the trip all the way out here.
Incidentally, if you're here, that means...
Hey Bro,
you don' need to worry.
Julius didn't come today.
I see you've finally arrived, Barusu.
It took you long enough.
You perv.
You're the pervert if you find this anything but wholesome!
Hah.
You should stop declaring what anything is or isn't based on your own personal opinions.
I suggest you remember this, Barusu.
My evaluation is based on my own personal opinions.
The first half of your argument doesn't exactly line up with the second!
Hey, what took ya so long, Boss?
Get in here already.
Otto and Lady Emilia's attempts at welcoming our guest
is turning into a comedy routine.
I think I'd rather stay here and watch the show for a while.
Stop blathering out nonsense and get in there.
And this is him?
Yes, that's right.
My apologies for the wait.
This is my knight, Natsuki Subaru.
"This is my knight."
Is something the matter?
I went on a little trip there.
I'm terribly sorry about that.
I am, per Lady Emilia's introduction,
her knight, Natsuki Subaru.
Your courtesy is appreciated.
I'm—
I am here as a messenger for Lady Anastasia Hoshin.
My name is Joshua Juukulius.
Juukulius?
Oh, I guess you weren't expecting that either!
That's right!
Joshua is Julius' younger brother!
Huh?!
Sir Natsuki, yes? 
My brother has spoken of you.
There are also other rumors going around, as well.
Oh, I see. You're Julius' little brother.
Now that you mention it, you do have that same nast—I mean, sharp look in your eyes,
and the same cynic—I mean, refined curve to your lips,
and the same demoni— I mean, vibrant hair color.
You know you can just not talk, right? It's obvious you're forcing it.
Anyway, sorry to keep you waiting.
Back to the discussion.
W-Wait just a moment! Who's that young girl?
Is there a problem with me being here, I suppose?
That's Beako.
She's Sis and Bro's kid!
What?!
That's right! This is Emilia-tan and I's adorable baby, Beatrice—
You know that's not true! Stop scaring poor Joshua!
I know we've kissed before,
but kissing can't make a baby!
I looked it up!
Er, sorry, Emilia-tan.
It feels really embarrassing, like I'm about to be caught up in a huge scandal.
Please stop, okay? I was in the wrong!
Um...
So what actually is the purpose of the young lady Beatrice's presence?
Beatrice is the adorable great spirit who I have a contract with.
A great spirit?
Yo, visitor.
You got a problem with my boss bringin' a spirit in here?
No, I had heard the rumors.
I was just surprised to learn that he really is a spirit knight.
As I believe you know, my brother is also a spirit knight.
He's the top spirit knight in the whole country, in fact!
Yeah, I'm well aware.
He's done a lot to...
A lot to... help us out...
Are you really that dead set on not admitting he's helped you out?!
I'm aware that there are other knight-and-spirit pairs besides us.
I've heard that he is quite a promising one, I suppose.
But of course! My brother is an incredible man!
At the mere age of 22, he's the star of the Kingdom Knights,
as well as second-in-command of the Royal Guard!
He may be away from his duties for now but,
once Lady Anastasia assumes the throne,
he is guaranteed to be Commander in no time!
Even the current Sword Saint, Reinhard,
can't hold a candle to my brother's knightly ways!
Yes, my brother is a true knight, indeed!
R-Right.
I'm completely put off.
You really do love your big brother Julius, don't you?
I-I apologize. I just don't know how to hold back when it comes to my family.
Whatever. Just get to the damn point already.
They say baumbehm tastes better the longer it ages, but there's a limit, y'know?
Baumbehm?!
I love baumbehm! It's yummy!
Wanna go get some?
S-Sure...
Okay! It's a promise!
If you'll allow me,
I will now deliver the message my master, Lady Anastasia Hoshin,
has sent for Lady Emilia.
Lady Anastasia would like to invite Lady Emilia to the Watergate City of Priestella. 
The Watergate City of Priestella?
What business does she have with her, exactly?
It seems to be an invitation to a party.
Lady Anastasia says that, out of the goodness of her heart,
she has found what Lady Emilia seeks.
What I seek?
Yes.
It appears that a merchant in Priestella has the magic crystal you desire.
Magic crystal?
Yes.
You are in search of a catalyst for recalling the great spirit, are you not?
Bye, Garf!
I'll be waiting in Pri-Pri!
You better show!
It looks like she's really taken a liking to you, Garfiel.
You say that like it's a good thing!
And yet you don't seem particularly bothered by it.
Like hell I'm not!
You just can't be honest, huh?
I am being honest!
To be honest, I'm a little afraid to end up owing Anastasia a debt, but...
What kind of city is Priestella, anyway?
Is it well known?
Priestella is one of the five biggest cities in Lugunica.
It's right on the border of the Kararagi City-States.
There are canals running throughout,
and they say it's a truly beautiful city.
Oh, so it's a city on water, huh?
It sounds like it's similar to Venice?
I'm not familiar with this "Venice",
but Priestella isn't a city on water. It's the Watergate City.
Watergate City?
Right. It's in the middle of a lake,
and when it rains, the whole city floods.
That's why they surrounded the city with tall walls,
and set up several floodgates to control the water level.
Suddenly, I'm imagining less of a water city and more of a water prison.
I wonder why she's inviting us to such a place.
Am I wrong for wanting to believe that she's just trying to do a good deed?
Unfortunately, the royal selection candidates all have their quirks.
Right...
But...
I have so many things I want to tell Puck. So many questions, as well.
That's why...
You'd better get your butt back here soon, cat spirit!
I've got some things I need to unload on you too.
I'm sorry I have to leave the mansion at such a critical time.
Oh, not at all.
I have every intention of honoring your will, Lady Emilia.
Even if this is a terribly hectic time,
with the assembly of the western nobles and all.
Truly, Master, you show no shred of remorse whatsoever.
My, how harsh of you, Frederica.
But of course.
Frankly, I'm a bit hesitant to send you and Subaru there alone,
but if Garfiel and Otto are with you, you should be fine.
I can trust Otto to competently handle negotiations,
and if worse comes to worst, Garfiel can demolish a path for you to escape.
That seems like it'd cause major problems in itself!
I promise I'll give it my all!
You have nothing to fear, Emilia-tan.
It doesn't matter whether we're up against Anastasia or Julius,
when it comes to throwing up smokescreens in a conversation, I'm first-rate!
Geez, I don't think that's something you should be bragging about.
So there'll be no problems with Ram staying behind at the mansion?
Yes, as you wish, Lord Roswaal. 
Sounds like everything's decided.
Well then, I'll leave it to you, Beatrice, to watch over the four of them.
Mew?!
I don't need you to tell me that, I suppose!
Y'know what?!
I know how it looks but, I'm thinkin' about all o' you guys!
You're basically an internal affairs officer at this point, huh?
Why're you lookin' at me with such pity?
Hey, relax, Otto.
You too boss. Don't tease him too much!
We agreed on ten Ottos a day before, remember?
What's "ten Ottos a day" s'posed ta mean?! 
Beg your pardon.
Rem...
Looks like I won't be able to see you for a while.
But we've got a lot to catch up on after today.
An uninvited guest threw something huge on our lap for us to deal with, y'know...
Before we see Lady Anastasia,
let me get you up to date on where the royal selection currently stands.
Right.
At first,
Duchess Crusch Kursten and Lady Anastasia Hoshin
were seen as the top candidate and leading rival.
The other three, including Lady Emilia...
To put it bluntly,
most thought you were just there to pad out the numbers.
Yes, it's hard to argue.
But at the very least, over this past year,
there's been an undeniable uptick in your public perception.
Your achievements in working with two powerful forces
to take out the White Whale and a Sin Archbishop played a big role in that.
The other two filler candidates, the Priscilla faction in particular,
have made striking progress, as well.
After inheriting her late husband's territory,
she swiftly won over the influential figures in the region,
who were quick to join her, amidst political turmoil.
Her charm and beauty allows her to easily curry favor with the people.
She is now revered as the "Sun Princess" and her momentum only grows by the day.
At first, the only strength Felt's faction had was her knight,
the Sword Saint, Reinhard van Astrea.
However, she set her sights on
people of considerable talents, but boorish personalities,
and those who already bore scars.
She proactively brought them to her side,
and with flexible ideas and perspectives,
initiated massive reforms in her territory.
Therefore during the past year, no pieces have fallen off the board.
Except...
Since Duchess Crusch Kursten lost her memories
in the battle against the Witch's Cult,
her outlook has diminished considerably.
Meanwhile, Anastasia is the only candidate who hasn't lost any momentum,
neither before nor after the start of the royal selection.
Anastasia has the backing of a big business called the Hoshin Company, right?
Correct.
Their wealth is their greatest weapon.
Striking with their financial might may be their strongest play.
So this invitation from Anastasia,
and on top of that, the likelihood of incurring a debt to her...
Do you see why this is twisting my stomach in knots now?
I feel like I understand the situation now.
I apologize for my willful actions.
If you understand, then that's enough for now.
And there's no need to carry this burden alone.
It's just like this dragon-drawn carriage.
Like the carriage in what way?
Natsuki's the one holding the reins right now.
Beatrice is right there watching him to make sure he doesn't slack off.
Garfiel is keeping an eye on our surroundings.
I'm the one who came up with the carriage's itinerary.
And you're telling us all we're doing great,
as we laboriously make our way to Priestella.
That sounded a lot like something Subaru would say.
What?! Really?!
I didn't want to hear that...
Hey, Otto, what's up? No fair!
What're you getting my Emilia-tan so fired up about?!
Beako, take the reins for a minute!
Wait! I can't!
Stop it, I suppose! Subaru! Subaru!
Yo, Boss! What'cha ya doin'?!
Subaru! Wait!
Ya sure you got this?!
S-Subaru!
They're awfully strict about who gets in or out.
This really is starting to feel more like a water prison now.
Wow.
You're right, this really is a hell of a view.
Originally, Priestella was a city that was built on top of a lake
using technology from 400 years ago.
Its construction is unusual,
but considering that the city itself was designed to be a trap,
it makes sense that they built it so the water
would easily collect in the center, I suppose.
The city itself was a trap?
That sounds so insidious.
Were they trying to trap demon beasts or something?
No one knows.
There are no records explaining the trap's intended purpose, I suppose.
Man, this place is seriously like a maze, though.
It seems like the city was built around the canals,
so the parts on land ended up super intricate.
Dragon-drawn boats are more common than dragon-drawn carriages here.
"Feather Robe of Water."
What an oddly shaped building.
This is our inn? It looks more like a traditional Japanese Ryokan!
You all look wicked shocked.
Guess I picked the right spot for ya.
Anastasia.
Heya. Welcome to Priestella.
Thanks for comin'.
Good to see you again, Julius.
And you as well, Lady Emilia.
It's been too long since I last saw you.
Don't you agree, Sir Natsuki Subaru?
Sir Subaru, my ass.
I see right through you.
So you may say, but you hold a position worthy of the title now.
It's merely the respect you deserve.
Don't "the respect you deserve" me, buddy!
I'm cringing! Enough sarcasm!
I see.
Your status may have changed,
but it seems to have had little effect on your character.
Uh, everyone. Rekindling old friendships is nice and all, but...
You're...
I'm—
Please accept my sincerest apologies.
I had no idea such a high-ranking great spirit as yourself was accompanying them.
I'll introduce you, okay?
This is the loli—I mean, spirit Beatrice that I'm contracted with.
As Subaru's partner, it is only natural that I'm here with him, I suppose.
The unnamed spirits you carry are incomparable to me in terms of class, realm, or cuteness.
And bearing that firmly in mind...
you will now offer delicious tea and snacks, I suppose.
Don't let your dignity slip at the last second!
Garf! You're here!
Why did Milady keep it a secret from me?!
Let's go explore the inn!
I'll guide you around!
Hey, hang on! I ain't done talkin' yet!
Damn, you're strong!
C'mon! Let's go!
Guess we should get going too.
What's up with you?
Oh, it's nothing.
It's nothing...
This place has such a different atmosphere.
We're sitting on the floor,
and we even took off our shoes.
I'd bet there are no bedrooms or beds either. Just futons to lay on the floor.
I wonder if we're expected to wear yukata indoors, too.
Subaru, you really seem to know a lot about this place.
He sure does.
Where'd ya learn so much about Kararagi's style?
Kararagi's style? You mean the inn?
Yeah. This traditional Japanese architecture came from Kararagi.
Japanese architecture?
Now there are words I just can't ignore.
Priestella was built by Hoshin, one of the great men who founded Kararagi.
Hoshin?
Also known as Hoshin of the Wilderness. 
Ever since his time 400 years ago,
he's been renown for his innovative ideas and forward-thinking vision.
Hoshin of the Wilderness...
He was probably summoned from another world,
specifically Japan, just like me.
Lady Anastasia, the preparations are complete.
Thanks, Joshua.
Now, shall we get to the topic you've all been waitin' for?
The magic crystal ya lookin' for
is in the hands of the next successah to the biggest trade company in this city. 
Joshua has prepeahd a dragon-drawn boat to take you to the Muse Company.
The heir to the Muse Company?
Yep. He's a wicked good businessman himself,
but in this city, he's known by another name.
Another name?
Yeah. The Man Whose Heart Was Stolen by the Songstress.
In othah words...
The Songstress Maniac.
I've never ridden a boat on the water before!
I'm starting to get excited!
The Songstress Maniac? There's gotta be something wrong with him.
Huh?
Is that canal flowing in a different direction?
Are you surprised?
I actually know this one.
Look over there.
That's the control tower which directs the flow of all the water in the city.
The entire tower is a metia with a very complex mechanism.
It uses water magic stones to control the water flow.
Incidentally, polluting the water here is severely penalized,
so do be careful.
Especially Garfiel, who's been staring at the water looking terrified this whole time.
It ain't like I'm scared of water or anything!
I just don't wanna end up lookin' like a wet cat!
Then could you loosen up your death grip on my cloak?
It sounds like it's about to rip.
Good grief. You're all getting too carried away.
You should learn from my much more ladylike exampl—
Subaru?
Uh-oh.
What was that, I suppose?
Uh-oh...
I think I'm gonna puke...
The nightmare from elementary school when I rode the ferry
during the class trip to the ocean just came back to me.
Shit, the world is spinning...
It's still going.
Just stay calm and enjoy the breeze for a while longer, I suppose.
Leave the Songstress Maniac to the others.
Hang on!
Did you know about my seasickness and use it to separate me from Emilia-tan?!
She'll manage just fine without carrying your dead weight, I suppose.
Oh, damn it!
I'm still a little dizzy, but I'll manage.
As long as I'm holding your hand, the heartwarming effect cancels it out.
You sure know how to talk to a lady.
But if anything happens, I'll handle it, I suppose.
Great! I'm counting on you!
Now, let's get back to them before Emilia gets all lonely and starts crying!
So...
The Muse Company...
Is this the right way to get there on foot?
Yes, it should be.
Didn't we pass by here before, though?
You're not...
lost, are you?
N-No, I am not lost, I suppose!
But if you're worried, we could ask someone for directions, just to be sure.
Yeah, yeah. You're adorable.
There's no one here to ask, though...
I wander with no destination
Wow...
No money, no future
No dreams either
All I have is my vanity
Hang on...
What the hell? These lyrics are actually awful!
I'm just a pathetic person
Huh?
Oh, crap! I didn't read the room!
You idiot! How unrefined, I suppose?!
You've completely ruined it!
Keep your complaints to yourself!
What's your problem?!
Don't interrupt!
Dumbass!
Well that was horrific.
I haven't stared death in the face like that in over a year.
Don't blame me.
I'm not using healing magic on you, I suppose.
Ask Emilia to do it.
But you always get upset when I ask Emilia-tan to heal me.
Oh, uh, sorry. I wasn't trying to interrupt your—
Such inspiration!
Eh?
Here's my new song, "Doo Wah Wah: The Age Gap in Love"!
You know, I see it and feel it
The age difference in our love
Everyone says it's weird,
But that doesn't bother me
Hey, wait up, please
Wait just a little longer,
A little longer
Just a little longer
If I stand up straight, I can almost reach you
The distance between us in our love
Love's distance that melts so sweetly
Love's distance, growing smaller and smaller
Silently igniting into a burning love
Before long, the stork will pay a visit
And deliver a child
The future is bright in our love story!
Huh?!
Wait! Wait just a minute, I suppose!
Why did you suddenly turn that into a duet?!
And there's something strange about the way you just went with it, I suppose!
C'mon, what're you talking about, Beako?
Music transcends all barriers, you know?
What a lovely sentiment!
You've shaken this Liliana the core!
Well... maybe not that moved, but still.
I don't like how it feels like I'm the one in the wrong here!
Oops! I haven't introduced myself!
I'm a bard making a living with only my voice and my trusty Lyulyre.
My name is Liliana.
It's a pleasure to meet y—
She bit her tongue, I suppose.
Thorry.
I bith my thung thuper hard.
Could it be that she's...
Hey, by any chance, are you the "Songstress" who everyone's talking about around here?
Um, um, the name is a little embarrassing, but... yes.
Then you must know about the Songstress Maniac of the Muse Company, right?
I don't mind showing you the way,
but you really shouldn't listen to one of the Songstress' song without paying!
I thought you were embarrassed to be called Songstress.
That's a completely different matter.
Sir, you aren't trying to sneak in a free listen, are you?
Okay, fine. How much do you want?
Oh, as much as your heart desires!
Make it everything you've got.
My heart can't desire that much!
Oh, how could you say such a thing!
Inspiration strikes again!
Here's my new song, "Rough Waves, High Waves, Society's Waves"!
That's enough of that!
And while we were talking about that, we've arrived!
Huh, so this is it?
Yes! And now for the final song of the day:
"Happy-Go-Lucky Life"!
You're pretty amazing, you know that?
I haven't met anyone this creepy and off-putting since Petelgeuse.
Oho? I don't know who that is,
but this Petelgeuse fellow sounds rather promising!
If I ever run into him somewhere,
he might just turn into a lifelong rival!
He's a Sin Archbishop of the Witch's Cult.
Huh?!
Whoa, whoa, whoa! Wait up!
Could it be that you're the one they call...
Could you be "Natsuki Subaru, the Girl Whisperer"?! 
Uh, I have some objections to that nickname.
Your part in Duchess Crusch Kursten's subjugation of the White Whale,
one of the Three Great Demon beasts, was the stuff of legends!
Even the Sword Demon Wilhelm acknowledged you as his savior!
And with the help of Duchess Kursten and Lady Anastasia of the Hoshin Company,
you liberated the world by defeating the Witch Cult's Sin Archbishop of Sloth,
and even slew the Great Rabbit, another of the Three Great Demon beasts!
Oh, wow! A legend... A legend stands right before my very eyes!
Miss Liliana, is something wrong?
Do you know these two?
Oh, we're attendants of Lady Emilia, who's in the middle of negotiations inside.
Does that mean...
If I facilitate these business negotiations,
the Girl Whisperer Natsuki Subaru, will share some of his stories with me?
Again, knock it off with the nickname.
Also, what stories?
Oh, you know, this and that and everything else!
I want to know how many of the rumors are true.
I wanna know it! I wanna hear it! And I wanna sing it!
With that, I might be able to sing a heroic tale that will be passed down future generations!
Now, let's go!
Liliana Masquerade is one who always puts duty before emotions!
What would that even accomplish?
Kiritaka is head-over-heels for me and would do anything for me,
so if I get in the room, his negotiating tactics will fall apart in shambles!
Yeah, it definitely won't go that smoothly.
Oh, it'll be fine!
No need to worry! Leave it all to me!
Hey, hang on! Wait up!
Please.
I implore you to let me have the magic crystal.
Seriously, come on!
Cool it! Wait a minute!
Please, just leave it to me!
L-Liliana? What's this?
Please, make me a woman!
Subaru?
H-Hey, Emilia-tan! Fancy meeting you here!
There's nothing fancy about the scene you're causing.
Huh? Kiritaka?
...off her.
Huh?
G-G...
G-Get your...
filthy hands off my Liliana!
Why in the world were you getting all handsy with the Songstress
right in front of the guy they call the Songstress Maniac?
I wasn't even doing anything particularly handsy!
It sure looked like you were rasslin' with her.
The hell I was!
Thanks to you, the deal we were just about to make is in tatters.
Well, Subaru didn't mean any harm.
Emilia-tan! You tell him!
You should show some remorse, Subaru.
Right. I'm sorry.
Whatever will I do with you?
I'm so sorry!
Don't worry about it.
I wasn't paying attention myself.
I found myself momentarily captivated by you.
Um...
That lovely silver hair of yours...
Okay, stop! That's far enough!
We'll just agree that both sides were careless.
Now, if you'll excuse us.
Wait, Subaru. You shouldn't be insincere.
It's fine. Okay?
I'm grateful for our meeting.
How thoughtful of the water city to arrange it for us.
Your courtesy is appreciated.
You're right. For the time being, I have little reason to cling to you all.
Should another opportunity arise, fate will bring us back together.
Agreed.
Well, let's hope fate reunites us tomorrow.
What's wrong, Emilia-tan?
Oh, it's just that man...
I feel as though I've met him before.
In any case, as for our negotiations with the Songstress Maniac,
let's rethink our strategy for tomorrow.
I have some business to attend to, so I'll be off for awhile.
Business?
Yes. Since I've come all the way to Priestella,
I'll use the opportunity to connect with some people.
He sure is passionate about his work.
The hell?
I smell someone gettin' right pissed off at the inn.
Don't make me say it again!
Quit spouting off and go get your master out here now!
I wouldn't bring my brother before a ruffian as crude as you, much less my master.
Please leave now.
You just don't know how to listen, do you, brat?! I oughta slap you around!
That's enough!
Lady Emilia! You're back already?
What's going on here?
Just take a breath and talk things out.
Screw this and everything else!
This punk's telling me he's not gonna let me inside!
Hey, I knew I'd seen you somewhere before.
You're Jessie!
Who the hell is Jessie?!
I got a name ya know. It's Rachins!
Rachins? Yep, you're Jessie all right.
Shaddup!
You know him, Subaru?
He's an old acquaintance from the capital.
He and his two buddies, James and Meowth, tried to rob me of everything I had. 
From what I've heard, you seem to be little more than trash, I suppose.
Who are you callin' trash, damn it?!
Whatever. Just let me handle him.
He's gonna—
Rachins. I had wondered why you weren't back yet.
What's all this commotion about?
Reinhard?
Hi there. It's been a long time, Subaru.
I've heard the rumors.
Glad to see you're in good spirits.
Anyway, Subaru, as much as I'd like to catch up over the past year...
could you call him off first?
He's your friend, right?
Calm down, Garfiel!
This is Reinhard.
He's a friend.
You don't have to worry.
As he said, I'm Reinhard van Astrea.
I'd appreciate it if you introduced yourself.
Garfiel Tinzel.
Ah, so you're the one they call Lady Emilia's shield?
Well met.
Huh?!
I apologize if I've offended you.
I'll be more careful.
Reinhard, I'm sorry about him.
Are you okay?
Lady Emilia, it's good to see you again.
Fortunately, since his aim was true,
I was able to stop the blow without issue.
I've heard about Felt.
It sounds like she's been doing amazing.
She still has a ways to go before her achievements can compare to yours.
Subaru, would you tell me the full story of the White Whale later?
I have a bit of a connection to that demon beast myself.
Yeah, sure.
But before that.
You know Rachins?
Yeah. He works for Lady Felt now.
Rachins, I'll explain everything later.
Please ask Lady Felt to return to the inn for now.
Yeah, yeah.
If anything happens, give the signal.
I'll be there in five seconds.
The scary part is it doesn't sound like he's joking.
Looks like what happened earlier is really getting to him.
It's good medicine every now and then,
finding out that there's someone better than you.
This is a good opportunity for Garfiel, I suppose.
Now, please wait here until Lady Anastasia arrives.
Pardon me.
Subaru-kyun!
Long time no see.
Ferris! And Crusch!
Wilhelm!
It's been too long!
Grandfather.
So it's you, Reinhard.
Huh?
Anyway, I was surprised to hear you guys were invited here too.
We also did not expect all of you to be here.
Such a happy coincidence.
I didn't know Reinhard and Wilhelm were related.
What a surprise.
They won't even look at each other, though.
So why did you invite us all here, Anastasia?
'Cause you seemed suspicious.
Just kiddin'! I just thought I'd have a little chat, is all.
That's why I didn' invite the ones who won' listen.
The ones who won't listen?
Does that mean you haven't invited Lady Priscilla?
She really just does her own thing,
and I couldn' find an excuse to invite 'er, anyway.
And I've been gettin' along wicked good with Felt too.
An excuse?
If someone's gonna come here,
I wanna offah up a gift that they'll like, y'know?
So in the case of Crusch's party...
The reason we came to Priestella
was because Lady Anastasia said she would be
discussing the Sin Archbishop of Gluttony.
I wasn't tryin' to disrespect you, Natsuki.
I just thought this information would mean more to Crusch than it would to you.
A merchant to the core, huh?
It pisses me off, but I get it.
You really have matured.
Shut it!
I'm just barely holding back right now, so don't push me.
Aw, don' make such a scary face.
I wouldn' keep this a secret from you.
It was a request from Crusch anyway.
Really, she's just too nice.
Of course, since it concerns my memories,
I would like to settle the score with Gluttony personally.
But I also understand how important helping Rem's current state is to you, Subaru.
Crusch...
Besides, having more hands working towards the same goal can only help.
No hard feelings over whose blade strikes the final blow, though.
Thanks. I mean it.
I'll make sure you don't regret it.
No matter what.
Still, I'm certain my side will get to him first.
Hey, what're you all doing here?
Surprising how little has changed over the last year.
But I guess that goes for me, too.
Lady Felt!
I thought I prepared clothing appropriate for you to wear outside.
What happened to it?
Hah! I'm not a doll for you to play dress-up with.
I just said I was going sightseeing so I could get out and get some new clothes!
I truly can't believe you sometimes...
Thank you for inviting me here today.
As fellow candidates in the royal selection,
I wish for us all to have a very productive discussion.
And that's all the formalities I can take!
Let me in on this, too!
Anyway, what a weird town. The building too!
Seeing all this weird stuff all over the place wore me out!
I'll never be a match for you, Felt.
But I'm glad yer enjoying the change of scenery, though.
There's still lots more to this ryokan, you know!
I feel like I'm melting.
Hey, Boss.
What's up?
Sorry, but...
Mind if I step out and get some air?
Garfiel, don't let it get to your head. We know you're tough.
But not the best.
And that ain't good enough.
He probably just needs to sleep it off.
Peek.
Peek.
Sneak, sneak, sneak, sneak...
Sneak, sneak...
It looks good on me, I suppose.
Beako! What's with the outfit?!
It does give me a different air than usual!
Awesome! They even have yukata!
Beako's so pretty! Beako's so lovely!
You're getting too worked up, Subaru.
Emilia-tan!
Subaru?
Your breathing seems to have become a little rough.
Do you feel feverish?
A little love sick, maybe...
Hey!
I heard in the bath that my useless knight was picking on your blonde buddy.
Lady Felt, he and I simply had a simple misunderstanding. Nothing more.
In truth, he is frighteningly formidable for his age.
That condescension with a total lack of self-awareness ain't convincing at all.
Incidentally, Lady Felt...
That outfit suits you quite well.
Shut it!
Y'know, Felt, it's kinda refreshing to see you treating Reinhard with that attitude.
And since even I had ulterior motives early on,
in that sense, Ferris and Crusch probably have the most ideal relationship.
It's a bit embarrassing to hear it.
Isn't it, Ferris?
I mean, I absolutely have some ulterior motives myself, so...
Huh?!
Welp, it's about time to eat.
S-Subaru!
Don't just walk away after you created this mess!
You don't need to worry.
I was obviously just joking.
You truly are a coward.
You're aware why you're able to see me, correct?
Shut up!
Just shut your damn mouth!
That's right. You are indeed weak.
The only reason your life wasn't ended by me
is because luck decided to favor you.
And it was pure chance that you managed to kill me.
I said shut up!
Because you're a weakling.
Just a feral weakling, and yet...
you killed me.
Garf! There you are!
Where ya goin'?
I wanna to go, too!
Hrm? Garf, you're makin' a weird face.
Did somethin' funny happen?
Do I look amused right now?!
I don't wanna talk about it, and I got no obligation to.
If ya keep talkin' about obligation and emotions, won't ya just turn out like Joshua?
I think ya should loosen up a little.
You look a lot cooler when you're laughin' like an idiot!
Whaddya mean, "like a idiot"?!
You little...
Garf! Look, look!
The sunset's super pretty!
It's sooo red!
Yo, chill out a little!
Hmm, nope!
That was quick!
I guess over thinkin' ain't gonna help.
With what?
Nothin'.
I can't just become the best overnight, is all.
I've still got a long climb ahead of me!
Yeah! It's a long way to the top!
Hey, you actually get it, don't ya?!
That's right!
That's the path to the top!
Garf, that!
Ya see? That's how it's done.
Woow!
Yer so cool!
M-Mister...
Thank you so much.
Don't sweat it.
What's your name, mister?
My name really ain't that important.
But if I gotta give you something, then I'm a tiger!
People call me "Gorgeous Tiger"!
Gorgeous Tiger.
Gorgeous Tiger!
Wow! So cool!
Gorgeous!
And we eat it just how it is?
This a new one for ya?
You just can't find food like this if you aren' near the Tigracy Rivah.
This is the right way to eat this!
Yum! Sashimi, my beloved! How I've missed you!
Amazing! You're the best, Anastasia!
I-It's that good?
It's delicious!
Must be 'cause it's fresh!
It's crazy delicious!
What's wrong, Beako?
T-This green blob is poison, I suppose?!
M-My nose is tingling!
And that's when I said,
"I know exactly what you evil bastards are up to"!
So cool! Captivating!
Wow!
So...
You guys live here?
Yeah.
You kids was playin' a long way from home.
I hope my sister isn't mad.
I left without telling her.
Ah. If there's one thing I know, it's how scary older sisters can be.
Okay! Let me handle this!
Really, Gorgeous Tiger?!
Fred!
S-Sis!
What were you doing?!
Exactly how much do you want to make me worry?!
Hey, take it easy, Sis.
This little guy didn't mean any harm.
Cut him some—
Dear?
Is Fred there?
I take it you've been looking after my son.
I'm sorry.
Mom?
Not one more bite.
But I could get used to this feeling, I suppose...
Did I startle you?
No, I was just kinda captivated.
Seeing the Sword Demon in a Japanese garden was just fitting.
Something about the way you caught the moonlight was just...
You should save that sort of line for a woman instead of wasting it on me.
You're quite the charmer.
The girl I want to impress the most doesn't fall for lines like that.
Those little frustrations are one of the best parts of love.
Is the atmosphere putting you in the mood to share some of your old love stories?
Care to hear it?
Of course.
In that case.
In the past, I was not as articulate as I am now.
A man of few words, you'd say.
I lived to wield a sword.
My life was completely defined by
the thoughts I had before swinging a sword,
and the thoughts that swinging a sword brought out.
It was my wife who made me realize what was right in front of my face.
Ever since then, whenever I hold my sword, I think of her.
Even now?
The sword has always been my connection to my wife, both then and now.
As long as I hold my sword in my hand, I will think of her.
Your wife was the previous Sword Saint, right?
In times of peace, she was an ordinary woman who loved flowers.
The heroes whose names are etched into history
were not always heroes in their daily lives.
And the same goes for you, Sir Subaru. 
Your reputation has spread much further than you can imagine.
That can't be right...
Of one thing I am certain:
When there is something you cannot accomplish alone,
you make it possible by gathering others who, too, are not enough on their own.
I assure you I'm actually useless and insignificant.
Yes, and the uselessness and insignificance are what I like about you.
I suppose I've been rambling for far too long.
That said, there is one thing that always comes to mind when I speak with you.
It makes me ask myself, "Why can't I speak this freely with my own grandson?"
Do you and Reinhard not get along?
But you're family, right?
There are three regrets in my life that are inexcusable.
One of those is the cause of the rift between my grandson and me.
I was irredeemably and unforgivably foolish.
I used getting revenge for my wife as an excuse
to turn a blind eye to that regret.
And now, having avenged her,
I understand that I should be making amends.
But you can't find the courage?
It shames me deeply.
Reinhard said he wanted to hear the details about the White Whale.
I don't know if the White Whale has anything to do with the awkwardness between you,
but Reinhard knows that you spent more than a decade avenging his grandma.
He wants to hear that story.
He might like the story more
if he heard it from you.
Honestly...
I am simply no match for you, Sir Subaru.
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight...
One, two, three, four,
five, six, seven, eight.
Now, raise both arms, and...
Victory!
You seem to be in high spirits this morning, Subaru.
Yeah, something good happened before I went to bed last night.
Really? That's great.
You seemed like you had a lot on your mind yesterday.
Unlike Subaru, he's in a terrible state.
Bad hangover, Otto?
Yeah. Since I came all the way to Priestella,
I thought I'd reconnect with a few people last nigh—
Whoa, watch it!
That reminds me, I haven't seen Garfiel around.
He's in kind of a sensitive state right now.
Try to be nice if you see him.
So, Otto, what's on the agenda today?
Weren't we gonna take Liliana hostage and exchange her for the magic crystal?
For starters, you're staying here, Natsuki!
This decision cannot be appealed!
Hey, you all showed.
Up bright and early, aren't ya?
Huh? The green guy wasn't here yesterday, was he?
He's our internal affairs officer.
Sorta like what Jessie is for you guys.
By the way, Felt, I see Reinhard isn't with you?
'Cause I ain't a kid!
He'd drive me nuts if I had to deal with him all the time!
Besides, I hate to say it, but...
If I call for him, he'll show in one second.
Lady Felt, you called?
Hell no I didn't!
Lady Emilia, good morning.
You too, Subaru. Lovely morning, isn't it?
Felt and Reinhard get along so well!
Yeah, what a lovely tale of friendship.
Why do you gotta phrase it like that?!
I hate it!
Morning.
Hey, you're all here.
Nice to see everyone getting along!
Lady Anastasia.
You look radiant as ever this morning.
It's the ace up my sleeve.
Wait, weren' Ricardo and Mimi with you?
Ricardo has not returned.
And as for Mimi...
It seems she's following Garfiel around town.
After finding out that she hadn't returned last night,
Hetaro and Tivey ran out into town in a panic.
Hetaro does lose sight of everything else when it comes to Mimi.
But if Tivey's with him, he'll be fine.
There's somethin' I wanna ask of you instead, Joshua.
Wh-What is it?
I need ya to deliver a letter to the main gate in Hetaro and Tivey's stead.
It's a wicked important letter.
Is it about Gluttony?!
Please, Joshua! I'm counting on you here!
Why would I need you to tell me that?
I apologize for the delay.
It appears as if we're the last ones here.
Looks like everyone's accounted for now.
So could ya bring it on in, please?
Th-This is...
Today's breakfast is a traditional dish of Kararagi:
Daisukiyaki!
I-Is this okonomiyaki?!
Look, Subaru! I flipped it perfectly!
I'm proud of this one! Try it out!
It looks all right, I suppose.
Subaru, you may eat this daisukiyaki I so graciously made for you.
Beatrice...
That is entirely too much sauce!
And you, Lady Emilia!
Eating it half-cooked will make you sick!
Hey, you two, how about...
you taste it yourself before offering it to someone else?
Lady Felt, I've prepared another.
Oh, great. Keep 'em coming, okay?
I feel like I just saw something I wasn't supposed to see.
Good morning, citizens of Priestella.
A fine morning, isn't it?
Huh? What's this?
I'm starting my day with a cup of first-harvest tea straight from Kararagi
They do this every mornin' in this city.
It's a broadcast made using a metia at the city hall.
and a slice of baumbehm that's been aged for three years.
The sweet scent of baumbehm on my windowsill under the morning sunbeams,
Broadcast via metia?
There's a broadcast every day?
and the glorious yet refreshing aroma of first-harvest tea
For what purpose?
I've heard it's there in case of emergencies.
are wafting across my breakfast table.
Due to the way this city is built,
I feel today is going to be another lovely day!
evacuation routes for use in emergencies are rather restrictive.
Now, once again this morning, I have a little gift—
Ah. Meow I see.
By the way, it was Kiritaka
no, a magnificent blessing for all of you!
who both proposed this broadcast and provided the metia.
It's time for our very own Songstress, Liliana Masquerade!
Oh, yeah. That's him.
Hi, everyone! Liliana here!
I intend to sing and play my heart out for you this morning,
so I hope you'll all enjoy our brief time together
and cheer me on!
Well then, here's my song:
The Sword Demon's Love Song, Act II!
That—
On the outskirts of town, on an empty corner,
the sword demon faces the same loneliness as always.
Ahead of him lies a flower garden.
"Say, do you like flowers?"
Reinhard.
"No, I hate them," he answers bluntly.
I... You know...
Yes? What is it?
I can't seem to get the hang of it.
Ah, but his closed heart has begun to turn.
Perhaps there's some trick to it you could show me?
It begins to open like a flower
Yes, of course, Grandfather.
after the start of this love.
Now, that's hardly fair.
The timing's just a little too convenient, wouldn't you say,
Dad?
Who are you?
Eh?
That's a pretty damned hostile look you're giving me, kid.
Hey!
Sword Saint or Juukulius.
Slice this rude little punk to pieces.
If I may, sir.
At the moment, both Reinhard and myself
are on break from our primary roles and are on special assignment.
Even if you're the deputy commander, you don't have the authority to give orders to us.
Ooh, I'm shaking.
C'mon, you know it was just a joke.
No need to get all worked up.
I may be deputy commander in name only,
but I still understand the rules.
A figurehead deputy commander?
That's right. A figurehead.
The figurehead, beloathed deputy commander of Lugunica's Royal Guard,
the good-for-nothing Heinkel.
If you're that useless and reviled, you shouldn't be getting so defensive.
Be calm, Subaru.
Don't stoop down to the deputy commander's level.
Hah! As expected of our most brilliant knight.
Definitely knows how to choose his words.
Heinkel!
Heinkel!
Just one time was enough.
I'm not old enough that my hearing's starting to go.
Anyway, isn't this a little cold?
I just wanted to say a few words at this celebration of the White Whale's defeat.
Ya hear, Dad?
Heinkel, I...
Reinhard!
Same goes for you, right?
My old man here took a huge weight off your shoulders, didn't he?
After all...
He avenged the previous Sword Saint after you killed her.
That's enough, Heinkel!
Just how far do you intend to...
It's a little late for lip service now, old man.
You, of all people, are in no position to criticize.
After all, you were the one who laid the death of the previous Sword Saint
at Reinhard's feet.
Hah! Nothing to say when the truth gets inconvenient for you, huh?
You're never gonna reconcile that way.
Theresia van Astrea won't allow you.
Heinkel van Astrea.
Don't add the "van," brat!
I never received that title. I'm Heinkel Astrea.
And?
What have you come here for?
Emilia?
Well, well! So you are Lady Emilia!
The half-demon princess who was dragged into a fight she can't win!
Your opinion of me isn't the subject at hand.
There's only one question I'd like to ask.
What did you come here for?
You're not how I heard you'd be at all.
Answer me properly.
For all that bluster you walked in here with,
you're sure lookin' pretty meek now.
And I was looking forwahd to hearing some fun stories.
I would prefer that this boorish man leave us at once.
Are you satisfied, Deputy Commander?
If you've no other business here,
I believe it would be in everyone's best interests if you'd remove yourself.
There'll be no need for that, peasant.
Took you long enough!
I was starting to sweat a little when you didn't show, Miss Priscilla.
Enough squawking.
It's been some time since we last met, but
it looks like you're all getting along swimmingly.
Priscilla? You're the one who brought him here?
And you are?
You don't remember me?!
C'mon, Princess.
That's a little mean, don't you think?
You know the guy who made an ass of himself
in public when you presented yourself at the castle?
That's the guy from that time.
You were laughing your head off.
It doesn't ring a bell.
Also, I don't believe I would ever laugh in such an undignified manner.
Don't just say whatever you want, Al.
You heard her, brother.
Sorry, I tried what I could.
You could've worked on getting a little better at handling her over the past year!
Do your best to raise your standing with her from scratch.
Anyway, you gonna answer my question?
Was I the one who brought this peasant here, you're asking?
If so, then yes. You're absolutely correct.
I summoned him myself and brought him here.
What for?!
If I had to give a reason...
because it seemed like it would be amusing.
This boor was clumsily attempting to mend fences with his family...
I couldn't very well let such an unsightly performance play out.
So I decided to rewrite the script.
Quite the spectacle, was it not?
Priscilla!
Don't, brother. Neither of us have anything to gain from duking it out here.
To hell with that!
You're telling me it's okay to just toy with people on a whim?!
Subaru...
I'm quite certain you're the only one I didn't inform about today's proceedings.
Vixen...
Once word starts to spread,
it becomes inevitable that it will spread like wildfire.
Anyway, this old guy is Reinhard's pops, right?
Oh?
And what could this wretched girl from the slums possibly have to say to me?
It's not exactly like this doesn't concern me.
The Astrea family inheritance doesn't belong to Reinhard, after all.
So that old man holds our lifeline in his hands.
Hah! So you finally put the pieces together, huh?
That's exactly right.
The heir to the Astrea inheritance is me.
I never gave that up to Reinhard,
nor do I ever intend to.
Lady Felt, I...
Reinhard.
Keep your mouth shut and your head held high.
Right.
That said, your sense of danger is well placed,
Reinhard's little mistress.
The Astrea inheritance belongs to me,
and I'm not going to back you.
The one I'm backing is—
Now, now, peasant.
Huh? What now, Queen Priscilla?
I'm in the middle of an important—
Silence.
Princess, that's enough with the temper tantrums.
Seriously, cut me some slack.
You pulling out the Yang Sword nearly gave me a heart atta—
Schult, remove this peasant from my sight.
And see that he's tended to.
Understood, Lady Priscilla.
Pardon me, Lord Heinkel. 
Hup... hup...
Schult is always willing to stick his neck out.
So is what the old man said earlier true?
Is he gonna drive us out and take back his place as its lord?
And if that were the case, what would you do?
Accept it with tears in your eyes and go away quietly?
Hah!
Don't make me laugh.
I don't care what anyone says,
I'll never give up without a fight.
When I'm done, the old guy will be begging this guy to take the land.
Well said.
My eventual victory is assured,
so I do hope there'll be some fun and chaos on the way.
Amuse me!
That's the role of a bit player!
I'll make sure you regret that arrogance one day.
Damn it! Just cool down!
No one was losing their temper in there but me!
Taking it out on the floor will accomplish nothing.
You'll only inconvenience the inn's owners.
I just got pissed off all on my own.
Everyone else stayed level headed. I'm so pathetic.
Not true.
It was your raw display of emotion that allowed everyone else to keep their cool.
Occasionally, that recklessness of yours can be of use.
You weren't even really pretending to compliment me, were you?
Indeed. If we're talking about knightly conduct,
your behavior warranted no praise.
That said...
What are you playing at?
Just what it looks like.
I thank you.
For putting on your righteous indignation on display in my stead.
You're thanking me for getting pissed off on your behalf?
Get real! Why do I have to get pissed off for the both of us?
I showed my anger because I was pissed off!
If you were pissed off too, then you should have just let it out!
I'm unable to display such disrespect to my direct superior, even for a moment.
Always a stickler for the rules.
I suppose you see walling off your own heart
as just another part of your knightly duties?
Walling off my heart, huh?
In truth, that's painful to hear.
So scruffy back there...
He's not going to hide behind being the Sword Saint's father, is he?
I cannot rule that out.
But the primary reason lies not with the deputy commander, but with Reinhard.
Or perhaps I should say it's the Astrea family.
He is Sir Wilhelm's son and the current head of the Astrea family.
What would happen if a man like that
became defiant against the kingdom?
So if Heinkel decided to go up against the kingdom,
the Sword Saint's entire family would be regarded as enemies?
Doesn't that mean the kingdom has no faith in either Reinhard or Wilhelm?!
Fifteen years ago,
a member of the royal family was kidnapped.
What about it?
At the time, Sir Wilhelm was Commander of the Royal Guard,
and he was responsible for conducting the search for the kidnapped royal.
The prior battle against the White Whale, in which the previous Sword Saint was a part of,
happened while Sir Wilhelm was away from the capital on his search.
Dealing with the kidnapping meant he couldn't be there when his wife passed away.
And now people think he holds a grudge because of it?
He just isn't that type of guy. Why doesn't anyone understand that?
I'm sorry.
I shouldn't have told you all this when you were unprepared to hear it.
I get why you're worried about Reinhard.
So it's only natural that you'd lose your temper.
I don't think that's strange at all.
Remember what I said earlier?
You don't have to obsess over being the perfect, courteous knight all the time.
It's okay to let your guard down and just be Juli sometimes.
It might even help some things
if you could show a little flexibility.
Juli, huh?
Hearing that name takes me back.
So this is how it feels to enjoy the breeze
when I'm just Juli.
Now that I think about it, back then
the color of the sky looked different than usual.
I don't get you at all.
Quit trying to sound all cool.
Say, Subaru...
You and Julius looked like you were getting along super well. What were you discussing?
You're super wrong about us being super friendly.
What do you think it was about?
Hmm...
Where you'll go the next time you get together?
Are we school buddies?!
We were both just keeping an eye on a rival!
And maybe just exchanged a little small talk, I guess?
Isn't that what friends do?
Nope, not friends.
That's the one thing I'm sure of.
So obstinate. 
No kidding, I suppose.
Oh, it seems to be really bustling over there.
It does appear so.
It's definitely much more lively compared to yesterday, I suppose.
Priscilla?!
That was a spectacular dance!
I thought watching your incredible footwork was going to make my eyes pop out!
Your song and accompaniment were quite enjoyable, as well.
It's been a long time since I've experienced such an eloquent performance from a bard.
It was a great honor.
Oh? What's this?
I see Natsuki and Lady Emilia over there!
And the girl is there, too!
Things got a little hectic yesterday, so we couldn't make any plans,
but it's a relief to see you here again today.
Why are you staring at me in that manner?
Such insolence.
I'm sorry.
It was just such a surprise to see you dancing.
I don't dance unless the mood strikes me.
That performer's song was sufficient to bring it out.
Seriously? Even you've turned into a Liliana fan?
So you think my singing is just that amazing?
Aw, now I'm all embarrassed!
Your singing was worthy.
Would you be interested in serving me as my personal singer?
Wow, thanks so much for the offer!
I'm so honored! That truly is high praise!
But!
But!
I'm afraid I must decline.
Oh? And why would you decline my invitation?
I am Liliana, the bard.
One day, I'll drift with the wind and become a traveler once more,
not bound to any land, nor people.
This is the way I've decided to live my life.
And that's why you would decline my invitation?
My mother, her mother, and her mother before her did the same. It's the way of our people.
It is our way to leave no trace
other than the songs that remain in people's hearts.
Just as one cannot encircle the wind,
nothing can contain a song.
Prisci—
Well said. Your beliefs are admirable.
Forgive me. I'm afraid I've overstepped.
No, not at all!
I should be apologizing to you!
What is it, pleb?
I was just surprised.
I was worried you were gonna cut Liliana in half for turning you down.
I guess I was a little surprised, too.
I thought you were the kind of person who wants to keep everything she desires close at hand.
Everything in this world belongs to me.
And as such, there is no need for me to keep all that is beautiful, noble,
and valuable, close at hand to admire.
If everything in this world is my garden,
then it makes no difference where this sweet bird chooses to sing her song.
Now, now, now! It looks like everyone's settled down,
so I'll perform a song in commemoration of our friendship!
And after the song, we'll have a nice chat!
Natsuki, don't you think you should go get
some snacks for us before that?
And after the song, we'll have a nice chat!
Natsuki, don't you think you should go get
some snacks for us before that?
What is this?
Is the game dialogue just going to loop until I say something?
I'm really getting lazy, huh...
Oh, sorry about that.
Hey, c'mon, bro. Is that any way to apologize to someone?
Where's the sinceri—
Oh, it's just you, Jessie.
Like I said, the name's not Jessie!
What the hell are ya doin' here, anyway?!
Hey, don't be so cold, man.
Remember all those life and death struggles we had?
I don't remember none of that! Stop getting closer!
Just hear me out. See, the thing is...
Give it a rest! You're being way too damn friendly!
My good people enjoying a pleasant chat, as well as those in a hurry!
The hell?
I apologize for the disturbance.
Please allow me to borrow a moment of your time.
Thank you! I do apologize!
I am the Sin Archbishop of the Witch Cult representing Wrath...
Sirius Romanée-Conti.
Uh, what?
What'd she just say?
The Witch Cult? It's gotta be a joke.
Hey, did you hear that?
Yeah. If it's a joke, I'm not laughing.
And that's it!
It took 35 seconds for all of you to be quiet.
Thank you for being quiet, though! I'm sorry!
I'm incredibly delighted!
Also...
You over there...
and you...
and you young men right over there.
I'm sorry! Don't be so angry!
From the bottom of my heart,
I do apologize for taking up your precious time!
So thanks and sorry!
Yes, thank you.
It appears you've all calmed down a bit.
I understand your misgivings.
But I am only borrowing your time today
because there's something I absolutely must confirm!
Something you need to confirm?
I'm sorry. Please don't buzz with anxiety.
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask.
I'm quite willing to discuss anything for your sake.
Okay, can I take you up on that and ask a question?
Oh, please do! You, right there! Thank you!
I don't know what it is you need,
but I'm keeping a girl waiting. Four of them, actually.
So I'd like to wrap this up as quickly as possible so we can all be on our way.
Oh dear! That sounds like quite the predicament! I'm sorry!
But you're quite the player, aren't you young man!
Keeping four girls waiting? You bad boy!
Still, thank you. I'm sorry. I must hurry.
Nah, it's fine.
I'd appreciate it if you'd just keep calm and say what you came here to say.
I'm sorry to make you worry about me! Thank you!
Then allow me to get to meat of the subject!
The reason I've appeared before you all like this!
You said there's something you need to confirm with us, right?
What did you need to check?
That's right! Let's hear it already!
Better hurry up! We're gonna be late for work!
I'm sorry! I'm sorry! I'm so, so sorry!
I'll get this over with right away!
You see, the thing I want to confirm is, put simply...
about love.
Oh, I'm so embarrassed!
Could I trouble you to accompany me as I confirm this matter of love?
Sure!
Go for it!
Of course!
You mean it?!
Thank you! Thank you! I'm sorry!
The world truly is a kind place!
It's so full of kindness and love!
Every time I realize that, it makes me feel so grateful.
We can treat each other with grace and compromise.
That's why I say "Thank you" and "I'm sorry" together.
Now, come on up here.
I kept you waiting a long time, and for that,
I'm sorry.
I'm sorry it's so tight,
but you're a boy, so you mustn't cry.
I should keep it secret, but you've even wet yourself.
It must be so embarrassing to have everyone find out!
Yeah! That's embarrassing!
You're a boy, aren't you? Boys don't cry!
There are only three times in a boy's life when he's allowed to cry!
He may be cowering in fear right now,
but the boy is, in fact, very brave!
His name is Lusbel Kallard.
He's only 9 years old and he lives right here in Priestella.
Oh, what a promising future you have!
You see, Lusbel here has a childhood friend.
A little girl named Tina with the cutest blonde curls.
They have the ideal relationship, in which they care for each other deeply, and so
I had much trouble deciding which one to bring out here.
At first, I thought I'd bring Tina,
but Lusbel begged me so desperately not to,
and it touched my heart so deeply.
So, in recognition of his determination,
I decided to let him assist me!
Don't cry, Lusbel! You're the best!
You showed her you're a man! Now see it through!
You're going to grow into a fine man!
Lusbel! You're the pride of Priestella!
Thank you... Thank you!
Oh, this is truly wonderful!
Everyone understood!
Because his essence embodies love!
Sirius! Thank you!
Thank you. Thank you!
Rifts form between us because we do not know each other.
Conflicts arise because we are unable to share our feelings.
Bonds are not forged because we are unable to give up our differences.
How is everyone's hearts right now?
It ain't like that!
Yeah! We won't give up on anyone!
Our hearts are one!
Thank you! Thank you!
Are you all feeling happy right now?
Of course!
I've never felt like this before!
Thank you, Lusbel!
And thank you, Sirius!
H-H...
Help me!
I commend you on your bravery, Lusbel.
Just as I thought!
There truly exists love here!
At this moment, it is as if everyone's hearts are united!
Thunderous applause, please!
Ah, what a kind world!
And after the song, we'll have a nice chat!
Natsuki, don't you think you should go get
some snacks for us before that?
Huh? What's wrong?
Hello? Is anyone there?
Hey! Hey!
I think I'm gonna be sick.
Subaru? Where'd this come from?
What is it, I suppose? Subaru?
Subaru?!
I think I'm gonna be sick...
I think I'm gonna be sick...
I think I'm gonna be sick...

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