――At the sudden arrival of “Death,” Natsuki Subaru hears a cracking sound.

　However, with each inevitable sound that echoes, he thinks,

　This is undeniably a sign that I’m not standing still. This is the footstep drawing closer to the future.

　No matter how small the strides may be, no matter how minimal the progress, indeed, I keep moving forward.

“――Subaru”

“――――”

　The moment his consciousness is led to awakening, he sees a pair of distinctive blue eyes with unique patterns right before him. The one peering down at Subaru with concern is Beatrice.

　Beatrice’s hand gently touches Subaru’s cheek, and he catches his breath.

　Just moments ago, he had parted from Beatrice’s tearful face.

　He struggles with the transition in consciousness. Just a little while ago, they could not have exchanged more sophisticated farewells, but indeed, she is right in front of Subaru.

“…Ah”

“Are you aware of your consciousness? It took a while for you to wake up, and I was worried. I should check if you haven’t accidentally lost any memories. To start with, how about we discuss Betty…”

“Bea, trice…”

“――. It seems definitively that you’re remembering things. Good job, aren’t you?”

　As she says this, Beatrice moves the hand that was on Subaru’s cheek to his head. As her small hand softly strokes his hair, his consciousness slowly catches up with reality.

“Count, one…”

“――?”

　At Subaru’s mutter, Beatrice tilts her head.

　However, she doesn’t understand its meaning and has no intention of explaining it. It wouldn’t be understood anyway, nor does she plan to make it understood.

　She is kind. Beatrice is genuinely kind.

　So, if she were to learn of exactly what Subaru is trying to do, she would undoubtedly oppose it. —And this isn’t just limited to Beatrice.

“So, how did it go, then? Were you able to fulfill the purpose of reading the book?”

“――Ah, about that…”

　Beatrice questions Subaru, who still has the book resting on his lap.

　Just before everything that happened before this—completely disregarding the timing from Subaru’s perspective—Subaru had sought the strategy to defeat Reid Astraea and had challenged the Book of the Dead.

　However, that endeavor had come to an abrupt halt for complicated reasons, intertwined with a series of events that feel like they occurred quite some time ago—but that’s a matter solely for Subaru himself.

　There are things he must do, things he must not forget.

　Thus—

“Beatrice, things are about to get a little hectic.――Lend me your strength.”

“――. Of course! Betty is Subaru’s partner, after all!”

　Beatrice promises to cooperate with Subaru, who has abruptly started without any explanation.

　Her presence is truly important.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

　――Shock reverberates through the stone corridors of the tower.

“Ha ha! Ha ha ha! You’re something else, aren’t you! You’re doing it, you might just be able to do it! Gluttony! Gluttony!”

“Is there really time to be fooling around? You seem rather laid-back.”

　In the hallway, the Archbishop of Gluttony, Rai Batenkaitos, utilizes an ever-changing combat technique, using the walls and ceilings as his footing.

　And pursuing him at high speed is Ram, moving energetically despite her physical unwellness.

　Her slender body dances, and the sound of strikes ruthlessly sends the body of Gluttony flying. Just then, striking as if she had been waiting—

“――Swinging in, then BAM!”

　Emilia stands ready with a massive ice hammer in both hands, swinging it like a home run batter.

　The impact of the ice hammer, nearly the size of a person’s torso, strikes Rai’s back with tremendous force. Along with a deafening sound, his small figure bounces like a rubber ball.

　――No, it’s bouncing too much.

　Reactively kicking the ice hammer, he leaps forward to dampen the shock.

“Ah ha ha! You’re doing it, doing it, aren’t you! But, but, that won’t cut it! I can’t lose to that!”

“――Ugh, so nimble!”

　Emilia grimaces at the acrobatics that Gluttony showcases, marveling at their skill.

　The combat ability of the Archbishop of Gluttony, Rai, who has figuratively absorbed all martial arts experts throughout time and space and thus became a master of “all martial arts”—is extraordinary, showcasing sharply accurate techniques to unleash optimal moves in every moment.

“If ‘Memories’ encompass training, effort, and everything gained…”

　It’s infuriating, but Gluttony probably doesn’t even need to consciously think, “I’ll make the most of it.” He effortlessly acts on instinct without realizing it; that’s his capability.

　――Stripped of ‘Memories’ also includes the experiences of the physical body.

　That’s clear from Subaru’s complete inability to recall how to use the whip he carried. The whip, which presumably was his main weapon before he lost his memories, now is entirely unfamiliar; he can’t remember the proper grip or swinging technique.

　Why did he choose a whip as his main weapon, to begin with?

　Probably some shallow notion that being nimble and resourceful would be more useful than wielding a sword or spear. There’s no argument against that premise; however…

“I wish I could have thought of countermeasures in case I lost my memories!”

　Of course, he is aware that is an unreasonable demand, but Subaru deliberately lets out a disgruntled remark. By doing so, he could momentarily forget his resentful feelings towards the vanished ‘Memories.’

　His resentment towards the vanished ‘Memories’ = ‘Natsuki Subaru.’

“Subaru, let me ask you once more. Are you really okay?”

　Beside Subaru, Beatrice calls out to him, supporting his kneeling figure.

　At her question, Subaru nods and says,

“Right now, the battle is tied… if we can break that, there’s a chance of winning…”

“――But I still feel resistant to leaving your side, Subaru.”

“But it’s something necessary. You understand, Beatrice…”

“That’s—”

“Lend me your strength. I’m asking you again.”

　With utmost care not to let his voice tremble from the constant chill, Subaru threatens Beatrice with a cunning insinuation.

　With Subaru’s harsh request, Beatrice lowers her eyes, her expression serious.

　Lending strength effectively means what was discussed in the archives of Taygeta.

　However, at that time, Subaru hadn’t activated ‘Cor Leonis’ yet, and Beatrice hadn’t known how dire the situation was at the Pleiades Watchtower.

　So this is Subaru’s cruel tactic that takes advantage of Beatrice’s kindness.

“――――”

　Beatrice, with a serious expression, scrutinizes Subaru’s suggestion.

　Subaru’s rapid decline in condition and Ram’s recovery are clearly related; both her and Beatrice, even Emilia, have noticed Subaru’s efforts to hold back.

　Nevertheless, they can’t voice that because everyone understands.

　――Subaru shouldered the suffering to barely maintain the battle.

　In a hypothetical situation, should Subaru drop ‘Cor Leonis’ out of self-interest, Ram would be the first to crumble, Emilia would have her ‘name’ consumed by Gluttony, and the team coordination would collapse, leading to defeat.

　And as Gluttony would be freed, the power balance within the tower would plummet into irretrievable chaos, resulting in everyone’s death, a game over.

“…Ultimately, bearing this burden is the best choice.”

　Subaru, unable to use even the not-so-useful whip, would significantly boost their combat capability by taking Ram’s burden. This is indispensable for navigating the tower.

　However, there are simply complicated traps in the effectiveness of ‘Cor Leonis.’

　That involves Ram either consciously or unconsciously limiting her fighting ability.

“――――”

　With overwhelming talent and extraordinary acrobatics, Ram completely controls the field.

　Yet even with that, she still can’t press the attack, as she hesitates to give it her all, considering Subaru’s state.

　If Ram were to move seriously, an immense load would be placed on Subaru.

　He wouldn’t be able to handle it. That mere possibility is what holds Ram back.

　Actually, a similar occurrence happened on the route that headed toward Julius and Raid.

　It has been confirmed that taking on Ram’s unease through ‘Cor Leonis’ can be done without joining up with her—but under conditions where Ram doesn’t know the connection between Subaru’s health and his own would mean she wouldn’t ease her fighting force.

　As a result, the backlash could potentially burn Subaru, threatening mutual destruction.

　That would also mean the end of Ram’s invincible duration—such a disastrous mutual destruction.

　You can’t keep running in a state of oxygen deprivation for too long. That was the lesson.

　Thus, raising Ram’s combat strength with ‘Cor Leonis’ was indeed the correct judgment, maintaining a slender grip was the optimal move.

　However, Gluttony can barely keep up with Ram’s increased power through the continuous acquisition of countless martial techniques. Emilia provides the support needed, yet even still, Gluttony doesn’t fall away, persistently clinging with remarkable tenacity.

　Therefore, to that—

“――Meenya!!”

　A multitude of purple arrows erupt, filling the corridor.

　Beatrice raises a small arm, casting her magic, the concentrated attack of Dark Magic called ‘Meenya’ rapidly assaults Rai, who has his back turned.

　In an instant, the swirling purple light engulfs the diminutive figure, and the sound of shattered glass fills the corridor.

“――――”

　As the scattering purple fragments flitter about, Emilia and Ram suddenly leap out of the attack’s range. With quick reflexes, the pair deftly evade, showcasing their athletic prowess.

　On the other hand, while Rai was in the same line of fire, the fact that he had turned his back meant he couldn’t easily dodge like Emilia and Ram did.

　The terrible magic that crystallizes the targets and transforms them into fragile, fleeting existence can become a fatal blow even with minor contact.

　Even grazing with Meenya can produce potentially lethal wounds. If unleashed in such close quarters, even an enemy with transcendent abilities would find it difficult to escape unscathed.

　When the shining purple volley calms, there is no sign of Gluttony to be found.

“――っ!?”

“Eh!? Where did he go…”

　Beatrice gasps in astonishment, while Emilia’s expression tightens as she scans their surroundings.

　Amidst the confusion, Ram proves to be the first to assess the situation.

　She places a hand over her right eye, only opening her left, turning back. Subaru, connected with Ram in a manner akin to a ‘pass’ via ‘Cor Leonis,’ understands.

　Ram has activated some form of technique. With that special power, she identifies where Gluttony has vanished.

　That location is――

“Balus!”

“――――”

　With her pale pink eye opened wide, Ram shouts.

　In an instant, Subaru realizes a dangerous presence has appeared right behind him from Ram’s gaze. It’s targeting—no, it’s aiming for Beatrice’s back.

　The recent intrusion by Meenya has tainted the battle.

　Regardless of that, the events that befall them bear no difference.

“――It’d be tough if this keeps up, though.”

　With mocking words, a dagger strapped to his arm glimmers.

　That was a strike from Rai, having escaped through space by using the ability of ‘The Jumper,’ eluding the concentrated assaults of the purple arrows.

　At first glance, there seems to be a limit on distance, yet the synergy between space-jumping abilities and area attacks is disastrous.

　Surprise attacks mean nothing, and in the end, the only option left is to defeat them head-on—

“Beatrice.”

“Subaru—”

　The thought and action, the response of body and mind don’t necessarily align.

　In an instinctive reaction, immediately after thrusting her small body away, an acute sensation burrows deeply into Subaru’s chest.

“Not!”

　The kind of pain akin to scratching a scab, intensified a thousandfold. Regret floods in instantly; having taken the blow in place of Beatrice weighs heavily on the heart. In comparison, becoming a meat shield is the least of it. Painful, yes; it hurts, yet bodily injury, if anything, is but a fleeting instance—

　No, perhaps not even a fleeting instance. But still, it is far better than seeing Beatrice come to harm.

　Better than for her to die.

“Subaru—!!”

　The high-pitched voice echoes throughout the tower. This time, he turns in hopes of spotting the source but buckles at the knees.

　In the blink of an eye, strength drains from his limbs. In a disgracefully fragile manner, he is unable to support his head. What a pitiful sight; a grown man collapsing like a baby just learning to hold its head up.

　His playful banter having slipped away, the consciousness now tumbling deeper into a dark abyss.

　A vivid pain and sense of loss, scorching his mind.

“—Gah!”

　He nearly cries out, swallowing the impulse as he clutches the silence.

　Screaming would not bring release, nor would it ease the burden. But if he were to cry out now, some part of him would undoubtedly condemn Beatrice to death.

　He cannot allow that. He cannot. So, die silently, Natsuki Subaru.

“――Good, brother. Is that how you’re going to move on, huh?”

　A mocking voice looks down at Subaru, who collapses without a fight.

　While he holds back a scream, there’s an intensity he cannot contain.

“――――”

　Hand unable to move, trembling arms and fingers gesture with effort.

　With all he could muster, he simply raised one middle finger, and his lips moved.

“Die, idiot.”

　With that last thought, his consciousness fades away――.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

**Count 2**

– Collaborate with Emilia and Ram to swiftly defeat Rai Batenkaitos, failed.

– Timing for taking on Ram’s burden via ‘Cor Leonis’ is crucial.

– ―Beatrice’s ambush has a bad match-up against Gluttony.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

　――Fiercely, the billowing dust approaches to consume his sight.

“――――ッッ”

　As sensations violently shake his body, Subaru clings on desperately, facing forward, the twin braids swaying on either side.

“――Hang in there, sand worm!”

　Upon Meily’s encouragement, the sandworm shakes its massive body and unleashes a powerful charge that opens a gaping hole in the encroaching horde of beasts.

　However, that gaping hole fills in merely seconds, as the resurrected monster tread upon the scattered remains of its kind. The tide of beasts does not cease its charge. ―The battle situation is dire.

“――――”

　Below him—no, from all directions, countless beasts rush toward them. Even so, Meily persistently fights valiantly despite being underprepared.

　To be honest, the effort that she exerts in controlling the beasts may be hard to see from the outside. It looks simply as if she shouts instructions at the monstrous creatures causing havoc.

　But──,

“Haah, haah!”

　When one looks at the girl’s face with beads of sweat forming on her brow and her occasionally pained breaths, it’s immediately clear that such a perspective is overly simplistic.

“Haah, puuh… Geez, my brother is really working me to the bone…”

　Wiping off the sweat that rolled down her chin with her palm, Meily’s eyes are bloodshot.

　Meily doesn’t directly link with the beasts, as Subaru does via ‘Cor Leonis.’ However, it takes overwhelming mental fortitude to twist the brutal instincts of the fierce beasts to her will.

　Having experienced a portion of Meily’s life through her book, Subaru understands the gravity of the price she pays. And because of that, it resonates deeply.

　――Meily genuinely intends to help Subaru conquer the tower alongside them.

“――!”

“Hey, big brother!? You’ll die if you don’t hold on tightly!”

“I-I know!”

　Just as he was pondering various sentiments, he loses his footing after being rocked from side to side. Subaru barely keeps his balance at the last moment, only for Meily to chide him.

　In response to her words, Subaru steadied himself, clinging onto the protrusion of the sandworm.

　――Currently, Subaru and Meily find themselves atop the massive form of the sandworm.

“By giving direct commands nearby, surely, some of the untrained ones will listen.”

“Even so, I never thought I’d have the chance to ride a monster!”

　While being swayingly rocked by the sandworm’s rapid speed, Subaru marvels at Meily’s remarkable skill as she skillfully navigates the beast’s back.

　Once again, Meily began her fight with the horde of beasts from the fourth-layer balcony.

　By properly organizing multiple sandworms under her command, she launches an attack against the horde storming toward the tower, preventing the beasts from breaching their defenses.

　However, she quickly abandoned the balcony’s advantage and hopped onto the back of a sandworm, charging head-on into the waves of beasts like a crashing tide.

　The bold tactic of Meily saw Subaru now serving as the decoy.

“Geez, these beasts really love big bro, huh?”

“Isn’t that the most unwelcome thing to acknowledge?!”

　Observing the excited demeanor of the approaching beasts, Meily sighs, egging the sandworm to crush them. While she agrees with him internally, Subaru sets his gaze upon the surrounding beasts who chase after them.

　The underlying principle remains unclear, yet the outcome is evident.

　The beasts surrounding the tower aren’t just targeting the tower itself—they’re chiefly hunting for Subaru, who is within it. —That much is clear in this situation.

　The monsters concentrate their focus on the sandworm carrying them.

　Instead of attacking the tower, their fangs are bared in pursuit of Subaru and Meily; this isn’t merely a mindless instinct to slay creatures.

“I wasn’t skeptical, but…”

　Having peered inside himself as he reflects upon his monster-attracting qualities, Subaru found it impossible to verify such traits. After all, this was the same person who had been bitten by a neighbor’s dog named Pocky in the past, which might have been a sign of his abilities all along.

　Now, he’ll never truly know. All he understands is that—

“The bulk of the five obstacles is my responsibility, no doubt.”

　He recalls the stampede of beasts charging toward the tower, how Gluttony is attempting to approach the tower through Subaru’s ‘Memories,’ Raid is attempting to absorb Gluttony to manifest its own reality, Shaula is hunting him down by changing form, and the inky-black shadow that loyal to devour the entire tower—

　Looking back on it, it appears truly that every originating factor rests upon Subaru’s shoulders. Admittedly, much stems from forces beyond his control.

“I’m feeling down…”

　Yet perhaps, if he could lure the beasts and Shaula, along with the black shadow away from the tower, he might have some means of taking action.

“…‘It’s permissible to break the ‘Trial,’ huh?”

　――The fifth rule regarding navigating the Pleiades Watchtower.

　The painful thought of Beatrice hiding this away fill his chest, yet the rule that was finally divulged by her provided a renewed perspective on this location.

　Knowing that, however, didn’t significantly broaden his horizon.

　Yet, it did lend a perspective he never even considered before. That is the fundamental law of the universe; one cannot simply acquire what is not available.

“Departing without finishing the ‘Trial,’ contradicting the stipulations of the ‘Trial’—that is prohibited.”

　Nonetheless, breaking the ‘Trial’ itself is not banned. What could that mean?

　What—.

“Mei—”

　As he begins to say, as Subaru is even momentarily distracted, he looks around.

　He attempts to change the sandworm’s course, searching for usable terrain around the tower, but that objective comes to an abrupt halt.

　The reason being, a beam of white light raining down from overhead obliterated the massive body of the sandworm.

“――――ッッッ”

　An overwhelming majority of its nearly ten-meter circumference is blown away, and the sandworm issues a death cry.

　The low roar of the beasts is similar to thunder, and as Subaru is caught in close proximity, he feels the shockwaves invade his eardrums, washing over his vision in white.

　Additionally, with the front and rear sections unable to remain connected, the beast stretches apart as it sprays blue-purple ichor all over.

“——Ah!”

“Guh——!”

　Automatically, he reaches out to embrace Meily’s slender body, pulling her into his arms.

　That was merely the unintended outcome of attempting to call out to her. By leaning instinctively, he managed to grasp her figure tumbling away.

　However, doing so brings no solution to their fundamental issue. The giant sandworm thrashes violently and isn’t the only one affected; Subaru, too, has been sent tumbling away.

　Regardless of being pulled close, they merely fall onto the ground covered in sand, surrounded by beasts.

　In such circumstances, they could easily become the prey of these monsters before they gain a moment to regain their balance.

“――Shaula.”

　On the tower’s outer wall lies the giant scorpion, Shaula, who hones in on Subaru and the hungry tail spike of the scorpion shows it is lurking in the night.

　Time runs out.

　Someone must have broken the rules within the tower. In alignment with that, Shaula has lost her self, transforming into a monstrous scorpion, per her own admission, now targeting Subaru.

　That one strike blasts away the body of the sandworm, hurling Subaru and Meily into the air.

“Big bro—!”

　Embracing Meily, who releases a scream, Subaru remains unwavering in his focus on the giant scorpion—no, on Shaula. The red compound eyes gleam with distinct brightness, and the rather unclear sight now undeniably fixes on Subaru.

　The tail spike concentrates light, preparing to release another stream.

　If he gets hit by that, he would evaporate. But he cannot let that happen.

　To die by Shaula would be something he desperately wished to avoid, even if this [body] were to wear thin. To give in to that would truly mean he’d become monstrous.

　But defensively, he has no means to fend off the impending attack.

“――――ッッ”

　In that moment, just as the white light shoots out, the writhing sandworm jumps into the path. Whether that was merely a blind instinct of the sandworm or something the girl Meily commanded him to do is unclear.

　Yet that one blast fired by Shaula avoids instantaneously causing Subaru to evaporate.

　And then—

“Guh, guh!”

　The two of them crash down from above onto the sandy ground.

　Subaru, clutching Meily tightly in his arms, is perhaps okay. But Subaru himself does not find himself unscathed. Unable to take precautions, his head gets slammed into the abundant sand.

　A dull thud resounds as the joints he’s required to protect crumple.

　In that moment, his sight darkens.

　The nerves that must not snap are rendered illegible.

　Sounds, sensations, everything visible fades out.

　But, strangely enough, his sense of smell remains intact. It’s odd. Normally, he wouldn’t expect much of his sense of smell. Yet for some reason, it lingers until the very end, retaining the scent.

　Sweet, oh so sweet—

　The aroma he just was feeling, that was right there in his arms.

　Probably still alive. The scent—

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

**Count 7**

– Escaped the tower with Meily, effective in luring the beasts away.

– The beasts are targeting Subaru. Shadows and the scorpion’s aims are likely the same.

– ―Natsuki Subaru alone cannot protect Meily.

　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　△▼△▼△▼△

“Guh—”

　Suppressing the urge to vomit, Subaru regains his focus forward.

　Planting his feet firmly on the ground, he suppresses the wobbliness of his body as much as he can. The agony he feels has not eased. All he’s grown proficient at is the art of evasion regarding discomfort.

“Wah! Urya! Urya urya! Eiyah!”

　Swallowing down the bitterness in his stomach, right before him, Emilia wildly swings two ice swords with incredible fury, her relentless strikes aimed at Rai Batenkaitos, who eagerly evades.

“――――”

　It’s evident that the location is the restart point for ‘Return by Death,’ which has been set up directly after encountering Rui Arnebe within the ‘Book of the Dead.’ As such, it is inevitable that in this current encounter, Emilia and Gluttony clash.

　From the moment Subaru returned through ‘Return by Death,’ Emilia’s battle unexpectedly began with Gluttony.

　The most straightforward means of shifting the situation would be manipulating the match into their favor. However, Subaru, upon activating ‘Cor Leonis’ instantly after returning, understands that this battle is thus unavoidable.

　Therefore, the scenario remains unchanged where the duo of Emilia and Ram engage in battle against Rai.

　—But within those circumstances, there are still avenues of opportunity.

“――Julius!”

“I’m aware!”

　Upon Subaru’s sharp call, a shadow responds with action.

　With a knight’s sword raised, Julius dashes splendidly through the frost-covered corridor, the chill gusting through his purple hair as he thrusts low.

“Ha ha! The nameless knight is joining the fray, huh?”

“Unfortunately, if that’s your way of provoking, you should know Subaru’s got a far sharper jab aimed at you.”

“What kind of camaraderie is that?”

　Dodging to deflect the advancing thrust, Julius and Rai exchange remarks in close quarters, yet amidst their conversation, clash after clash of blade ensues.

　――Having Julius with him as he sets out on this action constitutes a gamble of sorts.

　During the first round when the five obstacles besieged the Watchtower, he had followed Subaru at that time. Back then, Emilia had been devoured by Gluttony, leading to clumsy collaboration with a Julius unfamiliar with her combat style; efforts fell short of pressuring Gluttony.

　However――

“This time around, no one is forgetting Emilian. Not to mention…”

　The team-up between Emilia and Julius steadily pushes Rai towards a disadvantageous position.

　Ahead of Subaru’s gaze, someone descends from above and slams down—Ram pierces into the fray ferociously.

　By utilizing ‘Cor Leonis’ to empower her involvement, that has become Subaru’s most critical role. It is now being executed, as Abram approaches Rai with an extraordinary display of agility.

“And just like that, you’re ordered to leave.”

“Guh, ew!”

　A cold remark strikes along with a punch slam unceremoniously into Rai’s side.

　With a strike that effectively reaches past rib gaps to do direct internal damage, a clear groan escapes Rai’s lips.

　In response, Ram’s knee greets the reeling figure, and with a firm grip on his hair, she yanks him down to collide headfirst into the ground. Following that, her heel descends in merciless succession toward his face.

　This unyielding might continues to execute consecutive assaults that assure Rai’s eventual defeat.

　However, even in that moment, Rai doesn’t simply take the punishment lying down. While seizing Ram’s ankle as she brings her heel down upon his face, he glares back at her with blood-stained fury.

“Big sister, I’m gonna catch you—”

“Watch out!!”

“——Gah!”

　As Rai attempts a sinister smile, his body gets abruptly flung sideways from a strike—Emilia has smashed him away with a swing of an ice hammer like a golf swing.

　What may have seemed like a near miss against Ram’s thrust came as a generous safety net for Rai, who had been about to retaliate.

　Plummeting and rolling over, Rai winces as Emilia stands tall, dignified, her brow furrowed firmly.

“…As ever, you strike with no mercy.”

　Nearby, Beatrice, supporting Subaru, hears the exchange and expresses both admiration and mild exasperation, a hint of pride dancing on her features.

　In truth, Subaru firmly agrees. She possesses an innocent face but is remarkably reliable.

“Emilia, you’ve been a great help.”

“No, it’s fine. It’s because Ram’s been directing me that I am even able to land these blows. So, thank you for coming, Julius.”

“No, ‘Gluttony’ bears a deep connection to me as well. In truth, I’d rather have you, Emilia, and Lady Ram draw back.”

“I’m afraid that’s impractical against such an opponent as him, who’s already so devious.”

　Ram cuts off Julius, who attempts to reply, catching him off guard. The situation is something he cannot refute, which adds to his sense of frustration.

　There are unspoken norms in battles, as there are rules for every warrior involved.

　Yet adhering too strictly to rules and convictions puts far too many individuals at risk. —That’s a harsh reality Julius must come to terms with.

　At the very least, when contrasting it with the Archbishop of Gluttony, a villain of this magnitude must not be indulged.

“…Ah, you really do surprise me. I didn’t think we’d actually make it this far against you.”

　Just as he says that, the notorious Archbishop shakes his head, standing tall.

　Does the impact from Emilia’s earlier strike linger in the aftermath, as he laboriously leans on one shoulder? Perhaps one can assume even a bone-crushing experience took place.

　If so, that would be fatal for Rai Batenkaitos, who draws upon ‘Memories’ to replicate combat strategies and techniques. No matter how skillful he may be, if he cannot harness it perfectly, it’s worth little.

“…Or perhaps, would you like to switch places with your sister and completely relinquish your form to another?”

“――. Ha! I see. So you’re familiar with our ‘Solar Eclipse’ and ‘Lunar Eclipse’ techniques. What an astute observation. But—”

　Pausing momentarily as he teases the group, Rai sticks out his tongue, prompting Subaru to furrow his brows, yet an answer is readily forthcoming.

　That is—

“—In this lopsided of a scenario, do you even think there’s a point for us to keep fighting, huh?”

“――Yikes!”

　Realizing this obvious truth, Subaru curses his own naivety as he calls out.

　Hearing Subaru’s cry, it would seem Emilia and the others were led to the same conclusion, yet they are too late.

“Ba-ha-ha!!”

　With a light wave, Rai disappears from the passage.

　Utilizing ‘The Jumper’ ability, he has erased his presence from the corridor.

“Stay alert around us! We don’t know from which direction he may strike next!”

“――It’s futile. He won’t be caught after he’s set his mind to evading. That’s how he has remained unbothered until now.”

　With Rai vanishing, Julius warns about keeping his eyes peeled for a sudden strike, but Ram calmly assesses the situation.

　Subaru concurs with Ram, realizing that, as Rai declared, there’s no reason for him to fight so continuously in this unfavorable situation.

　Rai Batenkaitos is an Archbishop, and definitely not a swordsman.

　He holds no inclination towards fighting until he’s overwhelmed; nor does he relish struggling. According to Lui, what they seek is merely the optimum life and the most agreeable path.

　—They will never desire to fall into the traps of struggle and fail.

“…So, is this it?”

　Astonished beyond measure, Emilia whispers as she releases the ice hammer into the air, finally void of any coherent threats.

　The mere gesture gleaned from her expression hints not at relief for escaping the battle, but instead a particular disappointment at having allowed a nemesis to slip past.

　More than that, it’s a deeper hint of loss.

“—Just one more step!”

“――――”

“Just one step away from making those who harmed Rem pay for it…!”

　The voice quivers as she kneels low, an anguished yet fierce expression on Ram’s face.

　She slams her fist against the corridor floor, shaking with anger, her voice resonating against the absence of ‘Gluttony’ who had successfully fled.

　本 might be checked from the archives yet, yet understanding that there are limits to the knowledge potentially gained, it’s clear all frustration is directed towards the void left by their failed opportunity.

“…So now, have we done it? Have we pushed ‘Rai’ back?”

　While he comprehends Ram’s deep-seated sorrow as she lies on the floor, an alternative dilemma surfaces in Subaru’s mind.

　If they view one of the five unraveling links to their Watchtower as eliminated, it’s ill-founded. But in actuality, these formidable foes hold their ground; leaving a wild card on the table invites further escalation.

“—Well then, do we pursue the fleeing enemy or quickly tackle other problems? Whatever the case…!”

“――To gauge a situation means to scamper around heedlessly, it appears.”

“――――”

　In a split second, just before Subaru finds himself at the ready to burst into action, a voice descends from behind him, startling him into attention. Reactively, everyone turns around to reveal the unmistakable sound of zori-clad footsteps approaching from the corridor.

　A master warrior could walk without making a sound; however, this particular figure refrains from doing so.

　Asking why—

“Why should I need to care for the well-being of anyone while walking in my own garden?”

　The man standing brazenly before them—its undoubtedly the figure of Raid, having descended to the fourth layer, signalling a further decline in their situation.

　They had prioritized dispatching Rai Batenkaitos, yet as it ultimately turned out, he had evaded them while successfully preventing Raid’s resurrection.

“When did this tower become your garden?”

“Hey now, don’t mistake me here, gorgeous. Just to clarify, I’m not referring to some cruddy old tower as my garden. To me, I laid claim to the whole damn world.”

“…A legend that stood unfazed with a single blade has now dismissed your statement as a joke.”

　Amidst their astonishment at his unhinged re-emergence from the second layer, both Emilia and Julius stare at Raid incredulously in response to his singular response that reveals the entirety of his character.

　There is no consideration of silencing one’s footsteps; it is apparent that this transcendent warrior shows no regard for others whatsoever and never will.

“…Why have you come down here? You shouldn’t be able to leave that floor.”

“Honestly, I’m not in the mood to converse with a girl down on her knees, sobbing. If you want answers, you’ll have to beg for them. Strong-willed girls don’t bother me. Weak girls, on the other hand, leave me undeterred.”

“Indeed. -You repugnant fiend.”

　Seeing the lack of any reasonable exchange minimize as Ram hastily ends the conversation with Raid, it becomes clear that Subaru knows the immediacy of the situation forces their hand.

　In the very next instant, having gathered enough force, Ram rockets straight through the air toward Raid, transforming into a pink whirlwind, ramming into the ‘Sword Saint’ standing idly.

　Completing rapid-speed roundhouse kicks derived from her small stature, the kick slams toward Raid’s neck with enough ferocity to threaten decapitation.

　A strike that could shatter his consciousness whether it lands cleanly or not.

　Yet rest assured, the consequent shockwaves thrumming back along Ram does not allow her to evade the searing pain traveling along her.

“Gah, gah!”

　It is said that when an artery bursts, nothing in this realm can compare to the excruciating pain that follows. Reckoning now, Subaru is strengthened by the torment radiating throughout his entirety at this very moment.

　The effort placed into Ram’s strike yielded an outcome—

“Not bad. But that’s about it. If Tricia hit me, she would have shattered the ground in one fell swoop.”

“…Monster.”

“Don’t lump me in with monsters. That clashing of values only lowers my own worth.”

　As he steps back, absorbing the impact directed toward the ground, he presents an image reminiscent of the physical attack-killing grasp, yet manages to ripple through the passages while shattering the floor as they slip through the collision.

　However, the damage sustained doesn’t reach Ram herself.

“Now, let’s see you endure this little challenge.”

　Grinning, Rai spins around as his thick, muscular leg lashes out.

　With a swift motion, the sole of his zori strikes down against Ram’s frame, lifting her effortlessly overhead.

“Gah!”

　Expelling all air from her lungs, her eyes widen as crimson pours from her mouth.

　Instead of reacting to her injuries, Rai merely observes her coyly, squinting his eyes as a smug grin envelops his visage.

　But, instantly, horror spreads across his features, his eyes snapping open wide in abrupt realization.

“—What! You?!”

　In the moment he discovers why he should be fearful, that expression swaps sharply to outrage—

“Where? Is this you? The little fish?”

“――――”

　The sound of wet anguish escapes Subaru’s throat, a visceral gasp that reverberates even as he feels his own body slowly slip back.

　In the wake of Ram’s vulnerability, Rai shifts his focus toward Subaru, a malevolent smile creeping across his lips.

“—Stay the hell away from Subaru!”

　Emilia quickly leaps forward, spotting Rai’s dangerous contour of intent. In response to her movement, Rai lazily swats aside her ice sword as he wrestles it free, mercilessly swinging it against Emilia and carelessly booting her away.

“Aww!”

“Don’t obstruct me.”

　In a staggering motion, Emilia’s physical distance is obliterated by Rai’s strike. An extraordinary feat, when Rai lifts his foot without so much as a hint of difficulty with Ram’s grip still intact.

“Ugh, this is pointless!”

“—Prepare yourself!”

　Abandoning the advantage of the joint hold, Ram bolts away while Julius takes the opportunity to advance simultaneously.

　Yet, the resulting impact amounts to a dismal setback.

　Kicks and knife strokes alike fail entirely, sending both Ram and Julius sprawling. Ram’s neck snapped; Julius’s legs broken—none of them able to rise again from their defeat.

“—Shit.”

　Subaru observes as his fallen comrades remain prone in abject agony while Rai strides forth, having literally fragmented barriers. Close before them, only the worn-out Beatrice stands expanded arms in front of the battered Subaru to protect him.

“Bring, Me—”

“Impossible! Even if it’s impossible!”

“It’s not such a trial. You’re all fools, still fallaciously gripping her. Eternally, the outcome must trickle down through that damned loop.”

“Yet, if it’s beyond desperate, remember. You belong here, too.”

　She knows that word as a sort of damning echo.

　The crude dialogue escalates as Rai defiantly removes any semblance of restraint and edges deeper into madness.

“—Stop! Why are you targeting Beatrice—and Subaru?!”

“Sure, in the midst of the ‘Trial’ also, I’m saying that’s residual rationale. My underlying aim concerns the beauty, yes, just hers, on the outside…”

“Indeed, and yet besides…”

“Yet upon closer inspection? There’s no ambiguity; that’s a repulsive sight! Time to make some minor adjustments.”

　Based on that assessment of his unusual tastes, Beatrice furrows her brow, glancing back at the defenseless Subaru, lying helpless upon the floor.

“——”

　Gritting her teeth as rage boils within, preparing for the coming confrontation, she rushes forward undeterred.

“Come forth, Uru-Minya!”

　Unleashing countless arrows of dark purple; the fluid limbs flood the corridor, ensuring Raid’s sure escape has been cut off completely.

　Even grazing the beasts can lead to fatal outcomes arising from Minya’s traits. While he clearly sees through the monstrosity, Rai remains undeterred.

“I see—Natsuki Subaru’s Great Spirit, Beatrice.”

“I’m fine with that. —-The ‘Whipper,’ Raid Astraea.”

　Both express their names, brimming with tension.

　As Beatrice lays down visages suffused with sinister hues, Rai retrieves the knight’s blade discarded by Julius, posturing himself to take swift action.

“――――”

　Until the last possible moment, Subaru remains silent.

　However, he keeps both eyes open, refusing to take them off.

　To observe their choice and valiant endeavors—the outcome matters not this time.

“I won’t let anyone die before me again!”

“`

 

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