The wagon progressed along the highway at a slow, rather pastoral pace.

The giant chestnut horse, with its powerful build, provided a careful escort to Subaru and his party, despite its delicate demeanor.

“As expected, it’s not just Lady Zikuru’s horse… it’s Lady, after all.”

Gazing at the gallant chestnut horse, Subaru mused about its owner.

The name of the borrowed horse from Zikuru was ‘Lady’—how fitting, being a near-homophone for ‘lady,’ a remarkable stroke of fate for a ‘womanizer.’

In any case, thanks to Lady’s efforts, the journey towards the Magic City Chaos Frame was proceeding smoothly. If things continued like this, they could expect to arrive in about four days.

“That said, reaching our destination isn’t our only goal. The reputation of the Nine Divine Generals we’re meeting is one thing, but just the very name ‘Magic City’ sounds intimidating.”

‘Magic City’—a place bearing the title of magic. It certainly didn’t feel like it would be straightforward.

I’ve heard it’s a salad bowl of various races, but could that alone justify treating it as a city rife with ‘chaos’ and ‘magic’?

Add to that the fact that it was ruled by the rebellious ‘Nine Divine Generals,’ and one could only conclude it was a place that shouted danger to Subaru—this was also a part of why he had refrained from bringing Rem along.

“What kind of chaos awaits us, I wonder…”

“Speaking of chaos, I’m still confused. The getup and my memories of the siblings just don’t align, causing a sort of bug.”

“Ha? Are you still saying that?”

From the spacious front seat of the wagon, Subaru, gazing at Lady’s backside through the window, gently brushed back his long black hair before turning to respond.

Sitting at the back of the wagon was Al, lifting his chin in mock exasperation at Subaru’s mannerism.

Lounging in a slouched position on the three-person bench, Al hooked his finger under his helmet’s chin piece and tilted his face downward, muttering, “That’s definitely on purpose.”

Subaru shrugged his shoulders at Al’s bitter tone, feeling a touch of indignation. Ironically, it’s Al, second only to Rem, who often comments on Subaru’s cross-dressing.

While Abel and the folks from Shudrak, the O’Connell siblings, and even Zikuru easily accepted it after a while, Al continued to jab at it with thinly veiled remarks.

“You said you’d support me, and now you’re complaining with the same mouth… was that serious exchange all just lies?”

“That’s not a lie. I genuinely want to help my brother, but that’s a separate issue. Why should my support mean I have to be okay with your cross-dressing?”

“As an ally, I hope you’ll at least accept me as I am!”

“So is that cross-dressed state of yours really you, brother? Seriously?”

When confronted with this, Subaru felt a bit presumptuous.

Natsuki Subaru and Natsumi Schwarz—though they share the same body, their essence and stance are distinct.

To put it simply, Natsuki Subaru is grounded in reality, while Natsumi Schwarz exists as an ethereal ideal.

“Of course, I don’t want to become a woman. It’s more about confidence and that sort of thing.”

“I haven’t heard that though!”

As Al loudly countered, Subaru glanced down at his body, reassessing his perception.

Currently, as Natsumi Schwarz, he was recreated with a wig and makeup, but unlike when he was in the dancer’s outfit, the role expected of him now was something more intellectual.

Thus, the costume and makeup were tailored to fit that impression.

The outfit, themed in red with a collar, was similar to the uniforms worn by officers of the Volakia Empire—crafted as a unique item inspired by Zikuru’s attire. Prioritizing ease of movement, he didn’t wear a cape except when necessary, but he took pride in how eye-catching it was.

With trousers and sturdy boots, he topped it all off with a military cap adorned with feathers.

This is the final form of ‘Lady Strategist’ Natsumi Schwarz.

“Well, it’s leaning more towards a female warrior than a strategist. You know, when it comes to women in military attire, it’s customary for them to be in men’s clothing, right?”

“A cross-dressed brother means cross-dressing is simply more chaotic, just looking at it on paper.”

“I’d like to avoid being too conspicuous, so I’ve settled for an imperial style. Since it’s men’s clothing, I also borrowed some of Crusch’s flavor.”

“I doubt the way you phrased getting hints from past encounters will please the Duke. I can’t tell if it’s a meaningful expression or not. Am I the only one who thinks this is weird? How about the Emperor?”

As Subaru was explaining the concept, Al raised his hands in surrender. Then, while gesturing with his raised right arm, he looked towards a figure in front of him.

Seated midway in the wagon, who was sandwiched between Subaru and Al during their conversation, was Abel, looking out the window with a grim expression.

Having pondered something with a seemingly serious face, he flinched at Al’s careless term and coldly remarked, “Fool.”

“I don’t recall giving you permission to call me that. Consider that careless remark a threat to the survival of the Empire. Else, you may lose your other arm as well.”

“Yikes, get off my back! I’ve gotten used to this, but it’s still inconvenient. Losing another arm would be ridiculously inconvenient.”

“In that case, be cautious.”

“Yes, yes, the Empire’s way can’t take jokes. Tough for comedians like us. Right, brother?”

“Don’t ask for my agreement.”

The tension-filled atmosphere with no humor felt overly much for Subaru, but he didn’t intend to criticize the Empire for it.

At most, he recognized Abel as a rather difficult person to deal with. Although Abel responded lightly enough, the underlying frustration was not something unfamiliar.

Of course, delving into beliefs and values would create even deeper issues.

“So, what does Abel think about your brother’s attire?”

“—”

Subaru had only just finished his question when Abel’s brow furrowed at the newly adopted term of address.

Al’s reckless closeness startled even Subaru, but after a moment of silence, Abel dismissed the slight, huffing in silence.

“Better than being called emperor, I presume.” Abel probably judged that. Not knowing how Abel would feel, Subaru could only suppress a sigh.

In this blank time, Abel shifted his gaze to Subaru to answer Al’s question,

“Certainly, it looks ridiculous, but I will not complain if you produce results. One should separate ability and personal taste.”

“Don’t pretend to help me while stabbing me in the back. It’s not a preference; I’m doing this out of necessity. Do you think I enjoy cross-dressing?”

“—”

“Don’t go silent now!”

Because of the ominous silence, the doubts concerning Subaru grew darker.

Naturally, for Subaru, it was unjust. If he could avoid it, he would never want to cross-dress again.

However, if he could just as well improve the situation, then he had no choice but to keep cross-dressing as an option. That’s all it was.

“Everyone is so loaded with theory, yet they refuse to hear me.”

“You just said ‘loaded with theory’. It certainly fits the trope, right? An ousted emperor must recruit allies to reclaim his throne, and thus naturally has a mysterious woman at his side.”

“Right? Scheming war strategists and wizards often appear as heroines in such stories… Not heroines!”

“You’re getting angry just because you said it yourself. Sure, I’ll get angry too.”

Though Subaru was indignant, this feeling wouldn’t register with anyone other than Al, who was a bit familiar with the dynamics.

Much of what he said didn’t even cross into familiar territory. For this to even make sense, it showed how close Al’s knowledge matched Subaru’s.

“I’ve never dug into what year we were both summoned from.”

Up until now, Subaru hadn’t shared information regarding when they were both pulled into this world.

He remembered Al saying he’d been summoned to this world nearly twenty years ago.

He had been through a harrowing experience, even losing an arm.

While this admission had been spoken lightly, the weight behind it was heavy.

Al had endured grief and despair. No doubt endured far more suffering in this other world than Subaru had.

If they were to speak, he would feel how privileged he was in comparison to him.

At the same time, it would also be a chance for Subaru to reflect on what exactly differentiated them.

Subaru had avoided discussing deep topics with Al out of fear of what he might learn.

Nevertheless, considering the terms used and common cultural references, it appeared that both Subaru and Al hailed from relatively similar backgrounds—if twenty years prior, their ages would have also aligned more closely.

The age gap between them now was merely a quirk of time passing in a different world. Perhaps that’s why he felt resonance in conversation despite the difference in masses.

—The vague yearning felt while interacting with him seemed to stem from this.

“—When you mention tropes, it annoys me.”

“Eh?”

“Isn’t it a trope to have a suspicious sorceress beside the emperor? How do you feel about that?”

Subaru’s thoughts had wandered off-track until Al’s casual quip brought him back to reality.

With wide eyes, Subaru blinked and nodded at what Al meant as a “trope.”

“Indeed, it fits the trope. A mysterious witch ensnares the emperor, slowly turning him into her puppet… and thus, a once-proud nation heads towards ruin.”

“Oh no, don’t just bring ruin on your own! Regardless, I’ll take it back myself. But—”

“But?”

“Though there was once someone known as a ‘Stargazer’ present, it’s a fact.”

“—‘Stargazer’?”

The term dropped from Abel’s mouth, causing both Subaru and Al to voice their confusion together.

It was a term neither had heard before, but it curiously triggered recollections in their minds. As they considered the implications, a role began to form vaguely in their thoughts.

“Could it be one of those feng shui practitioners or perhaps a fortune-teller-type position?”

“More like a prophet, I bet? In the kingdom, stone tablets served that role.”

“Ah, those ‘Dragon History Stones’, right…”

As he accepted Al’s words, Subaru dredged up knowledge concerning the prophecy tablets known in the kingdom.

Although he hadn’t seen them himself, those tablets were said to contain future events predicted to unfold within the Lugnica Kingdom, along with methods for addressing problems—a rather convenient artifact.

However, even after foreseeing the untimely death of a royal family member, the solution proposed by those tablets had been to appoint the next king—which meant the royal selection that involved Emilia and Priscilla.

Honestly, he found it hard to appreciate the so-called prophetic tablets.

“If they’re truly providing advice to save the kingdom, wouldn’t it make more sense to disclose how to cure the illness from the outset…”

While deepening his understanding as a knight candidate for the royal rivals, Subaru realized that the Lugnica royals had been regarded fondly, demonstrating neither haughty conduct nor foolishness.

The subjects and citizens mourned their passing, and joy was scarce. Why the “Dragon History Stones” abandoned them remained shrouded in mystery.

“Given that they’re mere stone tablets, guessing outcomes must be incredibly far-fetched.”

“Well, that’s true only if we’re discussing stone tablets. But ‘Stargazers’ are different, right? What role did they fulfill in the palace, Abel?”

“—Your perceptions are not far off. The power of a ‘Stargazer’ was to maintain the Empire by peering into tomorrow.”

Abel’s reply was largely aligned with the impression of a ‘Stargazer’ derived from their name. However, a single concern stood out.

“…But you weren’t able to predict the future. You’ve been cast out.”

“I told you, the power of a ‘Stargazer’ is to maintain the Empire. —That doesn’t necessarily mean it can co-exist with my safety.”

“Are you implying… that it’s better for you to be hunted for the good of the Empire?”

“At the very least, it would appear the ‘Stargazer’ has so concluded.”

Calmly answering, Abel crossed his arms.

The similarity in function of stone tablets and ‘Stargazers’ suggested that they both overlooked the peril facing their respected nations.

While it could raise speculation about a connection between the kingdom and the Empire,—

“Before that, it feels like there’s an issue with being abandoned by the Prime Minister, the right-hand man, and the prophet. Are you sure it’ll be alright for you to return to the throne?”

“Hey, hey, that’s a strike right to the heart, brother.”

“Is it unreasonable, though? Given the surrounding circumstances, isn’t it natural to feel uneasy about the situation?!”

“Still, look at it this way. General Afro seems to recognize Abel.”

“Ah, right. Then it should be fine, I guess…”

With Afro, or Zikuru’s name mentioned, Subaru nodded solemnly.

After being raised with all these concerns, the fact that Zikuru supported Abel was a comforting element. Conversely, it left Subaru skeptical about how they would interact without Zikuru while being plagued with doubts.

No matter how secure he and Rem felt in their return to the kingdom, they couldn’t just disregard what would happen to the Empire.

Honestly, while there were far more unpleasant memories than pleasant ones associated with the Empire, many were also those he hoped would find happiness, including the people of Shudrak, as well as the O’Connell siblings.

” Is it proper to include you among them? Quite troubling it is…”

“No matter what you say, regardless of what the ‘Stargazers’ foresee about tomorrow, I’ve made my decision.”

“——”

“Even if the ‘Stargazers’ declare I can’t remain on the throne, I won’t yield. If they foretell ruin with my presence, it’s within my power to alter that fate.”

Abel’s declaration, though delivered calmly, was imbued with an intensity on par with each time he claimed he would reclaim the throne. That seemed to be his unwavering conviction.

It felt evident that this wasn’t merely a desire for revenge or rebellious defiance, but a deeply rooted, noble belief. This eased Subaru’s final doubts about Abel.

Nevertheless, despite wanting to trust all that he was, Subaru hoped to decorate the surrounding aspects more to make him believe in it.

“—Ah! Everyone! Everyone, look ahead, look ahead!”

“Huh?”

Just as the conversation reached a lull, a suddenly cheerful voice rang from the front of the wagon, drawing Subaru and the others’ attention.

The bright voice belonged to Medium, who was holding the reins of Lady from the driver’s seat.

During her trip with Flopp, it seemed she hadn’t had much opportunity to drive, so she took the initiative to volunteer herself.

The tall Medium balanced herself on the driver’s seat, one hand grasping the reins as she pointed ahead with the other.

“Looks like there’s something going on up ahead! Can you see it, Natsumi?”

“Um… I can see what looks like tiny specks.”

Leaning out the window, Subaru attempted to discern what Medium referred to as the ‘commotion,’ but could only spot what appeared to be little dots. Perhaps it was an issue of angle or just plain poor eyesight.

He thought he had decent vision, but he suddenly felt inadequate in this world.

In this place, the eyesight of otherworlders seemed to be on another level. Likely, Emilia also had sight comparable to 5.0. He felt he’d seen a program claiming that Africans were known for their extraordinarily good eyesight back in his original world.

And hence, one of the Amazons in this world, Talitta, might possess impressive eyesight as well.

“By the way, how about Talitta? Can you see anything?”

“Just a moment, that looks like…”

Responding to Subaru’s call, Talitta was nowhere to be seen inside the wagon or at the driver’s seat.

Peeking out the window, Subaru called to Talitta, who was stationed atop the roof of the moving wagon, keeping a vigilant watch from that position.

“Is it just me, or does it feel off to have someone up on the roof of the wagon?”

“Abel might not get it, but I’m used to it with our Garfiel.”

Though Al commented on Talitta working on top of the wagon, Subaru, with Garfiel seeking that same role, found nothing particularly strange about it.

In a way, vigilance while traveling in this other world is crucial, so it effectively serves as more than just a passing fantasy play. The fact that Abel did not stop them added credence to this.

“…Well, it seems Imperial soldiers are gathering up ahead. It looks like the ox-cart in front is being halted.”

“Wait, that means…”

“—A checkpoint.”

Upon receipt of Talitta’s report, realization struck Abel as he muttered.

When he thought of checkpoints, Subaru imagined the ones taking place at Gwararu’s main gate. However, he noted it was odd for a checkpoint to be occurring in the middle of the roadway, not at the city gate.

While it was natural to check entries and exits in a city, holding checkpoints midway through the highway suggested an impression of some anomaly taking place.

In simple terms, they were likely on the lookout for something specific.

“Are they searching for us? We’ve escaped Arakia, so could that have spread around?”

“Of course, it was inevitable that news concerning Arakia would leak eventually. But I don’t think they’d be moving this quickly or accurately. Moreover, the Magic City is in the opposite direction from the Imperial Capital.”

“Hence, they might not have received reports?”

“Indeed. —That said, there’s the issue of our companions.”

With his arms crossed, Abel was concerned not about Arakia but regarding her companions.

Arakia’s companion was none other than the person who brought her out from Gwararu.

“The one who dragged Arakia out, huh? With a bold and brazen entrance right in the enemy territory, they must be quite the shrewd character.”

“A shrewd character…”

With Abel’s concern and Al’s comment, unpleasant thoughts crept into Subaru’s mind.

Among the Imperial soldiers who had been in the castle fortress city was one he suspected to be ‘shrewd.’ It was someone he instinctively thought of as a source of danger, yet he didn’t find them amongst the Imperial soldiers who surrendered after the fall of the city hall.

Most likely, that person was blending in with those soldiers who abandoned the city and fled.

“Don’t tell me…”

There was no way that man was the one to have dragged Arakia away.

Being promised revenge, he’d prefer to avoid any further entanglement.

“—Focus on our current issue. What’s the plan? Can we divert around?”

“At the moment, they’re still unaware of our presence, I think…”

The two with exceptional eyesight, Medium and Talitta, noticed before the soldiers.

If they could veer off to avoid the checkpoint before the soldiers became aware of them, they could pass safely. But without exposing any vulnerable secrets, they could only focus on avoiding trouble.

Yet—

“—Wait, let’s not detour.”

“Huh?”

Just before the direction to veer off was given, it was Abel himself who called for caution.

At that call for restraint, Subaru shot a questioning look at Abel.

“If we don’t divert, then what? If they find you, it’ll be a big deal.”

“I want to know their objectives. If it’s about the fall of Gwararu, their movements are far too swift. As far as my location goes, I’d like to probe what the soldiers are being told to seek.”

“But if they find you, what then? Acting like you’ve poked a hornet’s nest could kick-start a dramatic chase!”

Naturally, there was the scenario of ending up captured right then and there.

Out of the five people in the wagon, only three would be able to fight aside from Subaru and Abel, but their total strength would likely match that of the dancer squad that stormed Gwararu. If they got into a chase scene, evading foes down that broad highway would be exceedingly difficult.

“The conditions are simply too poor. Or do you have a good strategy?”

“I do. —It’s you.”

“Huh?”

Dubiously caught off guard as Subaru weighed the risks against the possible rewards, he couldn’t comprehend the meaning behind Abel’s words.

Just moments ago, they were gearing up to take a risky gamble.

“So, why would it all come down to me?”

“We already have a precedent from the fortress city. The wagon has been disguised to appear as though it’s military property. Should be as previously agreed.”

“But that was just for casual chatter along the way!?”

Abel appeared completely unapologetic as he stated that, clearly not intending for it to be a cover under the watchful gaze of the Imperial soldiers.

However, Abel disregarded Subaru’s panicked cries, declaring,

“I’ll hide beneath the wagon. You’re to get the soldiers talking.”

“But wait, wait, wait! Are you serious?!”

“Don’t let the soldiers peek under the wagon. You value your life, don’t you?”

“Why are you acting all superior…?!”

Saying this, Abel stood up from his seat and placed his hands on the floor, revealing a slightly concealed opening beneath the wagon floorboards that led to the bottom space of the wagon.

Originally, this wagon had been drawn by Zikuru’s steed.

Though it had been disguised externally to not come across as Imperial property, the function itself hadn’t been rendered inoperative. For a wagon intended for high-ranking individuals, a mechanism that allowed for hiding in emergencies was included.

It was beyond doubt that a future emperor had not crossed the minds of the wagon makers.

In any case, as the floorboard deftly lifted, Abel twisted his lithe frame into that narrow space. He seemed to be leaving everything from there on to Subaru.

More than brave, he was arrogant.

“Geez, Abel, you sure are pushy. But I guess we have no choice; we’ll have to go along with it, brother.”

Shooting back a comment as he delivered his piece, Al noted the reactions of those observing the checkpoint ahead.

Both the girls’ voices filled the driver’s seat, harmonizing as they dismissed the notion of diverting. If they turned around now, it would indeed scream, “We have something to hide!”

Thus, reluctantly, they could only move forward in accordance with the wishes of His Imperial Majesty.

“Brother, are you ready?”

“—Yes, yes, I understand! I’m all set!”

“…That was a quick change.”

Gently slapping his cheeks with both hands, Subaru adjusted his mindset.

If he slapped hard, his makeup would smudge. If he scratched his head, his hair would get messy. He had no choice but to shelve the irritation within in order to avoid letting his words become harsh.—That would prevent him from seducing the imperial soldiers.

He must fulfill the demanded role and execute the expected duties.

That was the first step for Natsuki Subaru—to regain his lost trust.

“Oh, esteemed soldiers! Thank you for your hard work. What brings you here?”

With a charming and bright smile, Subaru leaned out the window to greet the imperial soldiers, attempting to remain as lovely and attractive as possible.

—

The imperial soldiers who had halted the wagon paid little heed to the presence of Medium, Talitta, and the now cross-dressed Subaru sitting alongside Al.

What they inquired was merely about the group’s identities and the purpose of their journey.

So they had previously agreed, it was explained that the two of them, Al and Medium, were hired to act as escorts for a daughter of a lesser count, while Talitta held the position of a servant to Subaru.

Before setting off from Gwararu, they had gone through several fashion trials, ensuring Talitta’s appearance didn’t exclusively scream ‘Amazonian style’ tied to the people of Shudrak.

Currently, Talitta’s garb had transitioned into a butler-style outfit, as per Subaru’s preferences, which Al regarded as, “So, my brother is cross-dressed while Talitta is in boys’ clothing… it’s kind of confusing now.”

Regardless, the inspection soldiers expressed no suspicion of those in the wagon.

However, when they declared the destination as ‘Chaos Frame,’ there was a moment of hushed interest.

“That… I wouldn’t recommend going to the Magic City, young lady.”

“Even if you say that, I’d still face my father’s ire. Despite being nobility, I come from a minor noble family… I can’t afford to be extravagant.”

“Hmm, I see. Well, you seem capable enough, so perhaps there’s no need to worry.”

“Oh my, you are quite charming.”

Subaru put her hand to her mouth, smiling genuinely as she skillfully navigated the soldiers’ suspicions.

There seemed to be no issues breaking through the checkpoint thus far. Now it was—

“By the way, things look really intense around here… did something happen?”

“Nah, it’s nothing major. We’re searching for some deserters that escaped due to minor skirmishes near the northern Badheim… Also, we’re on the lookout for a wanted criminal.”

“A wanted criminal, you say?”

At that reminder, Subaru consciously suppressed the urge to raise her brow, for fear of appearing too startled.

Fortunately, the soldier seemed oblivious to Subaru’s inner turmoil and nodded in affirmation.

“There have been reports of a wanted man seen around here. A fifty-year-old man with blue hair… does that ring any bells?”

“—I’m afraid not, sorry.”

“Well, that’s unfortunate. But to hear that trained imperial soldiers have deserters is concerning; I can’t shake the feeling that trouble is brewing within the Empire.”

“Don’t worry, Natsumi! We’re here, so there’s no need to worry! So hold your chest high!”

“Ah, Medium, you’re quite reassuring! Hee hee!”

Unintentionally charmingly caught in the middle of Medium’s cheerful remarks, the soldiers’ expressions changed ever so slightly.

While there could have been a risk of suspicion and probing, this anxiety seemed effectively avoided. Silent, Talitta continued her performance as a servant without interruption, demonstrating her good behavior.

Given that she might be overly nervous, it could well be her natural reaction.

Among the women, Al was viewed most suspiciously due to his appearance—

“Geez, I appreciate the hard work of you soldiers. It’s only due to your efforts that someone like me, a deadbeat, can take it easy in my position.”

“…We work solely for the Empire’s stability. It is certainly not for your kind’s complacency.”

“Yeah, I get it, I get it. I know my place.”

Al perfectly executed the behavior of a disrespectful scoundrel, leaving the soldiers no room to openly demur.

Whether he was earnest or joking about it was hard to tell, but he certainly knew how to handle things. Subaru had already preemptively eliminated any awkwardness around hiring Al as a guard based on his missing arm.

“While we may have hired him as an escort, his appearance must be clear. He surely once served honorably for the Empire.”

“I can’t say anything against someone who resigned because of injury. But watch your back; some vile intentions may still linger.”

Instead of treating Al’s disability as a disadvantage, it became a benefit, bolstering the flimsy excuse of his snappy demeanor.

With their disdain for weakness and regard for strength, those soldiers showed some degree of respect for someone who had stepped back from front-line duty due to an unhealed injury.

—With that, their inspection passed without any major issues.

—

“Wow, you were absolutely fantastic, Natsumi! I was truly impressed!”

As the imperial soldiers gradually distanced from the wagon and Medium waved them goodbye, she complimented Subaru. To that, Subaru shook her head, saying,

“No, no, all I did was just… if they had more serious concerns behind the inspection, it would have required quite a bit of finesse to get through… in that sense, we might all just have had good fortune.”

“Really? Well, I have often been told I’m quite lucky too! I feel the same way!”

“Hee hee, both you and Flopp have talents for seeking happiness.”

With her hand resting against her cheek, Subaru beamed at Medium’s delightful responses.

Then, Talitta, seeming slightly relieved, turned back from her earlier tense position.

Looking at Subaru with a curious gaze, she asked, “What is it, Talitta? Is there an issue?”

“Oh no, it’s no problem… But Natsumi, why do you seem so composed?”

“…That’s hard to say.”

It was indeed somewhat difficult for Talitta to acclimate to the way Subaru had transformed.

Among those present, Talitta had spent the most time with Subaru since their entrance into Gwararu alongside Abel. Yet for her, it appeared strange nonetheless.

In a sense, Abel and Flopp had managed mindlessly from day one.

Unlike that duo, that was perhaps a rare child—one who navigated every challenge via their natural beauty.

Naturally, Subaru’s facade as Natsumi Schwarz didn’t have that foundational aesthetic.

To cover such weaknesses, however, it required extensive effort.

“So, I simply put in the hard work.”

The execution of Natsumi Schwarz was a byproduct of humankind’s eager pursuit of beauty.

Without the pioneers paving the way, Subaru’s cross-dressing would hardly have made it through a school play. Each previous effort had longed to see it accepted.

That very foundation was not to be taken for granted.

“…I envy you for having confidence. I lack in that regard.”

“Confidence? What I possess instead is trust in Natsumi Schwarz, which is distinctly different from confidence.”

“Eh? Eh? Eh?”

“Whoa there, brother, let it go. At this rate, Talitta is getting confused. I already struggle to keep up, and I’m the elder here.”

Talitta’s expression after hearing that was one of surprise as she pondered the implications.

“Envisioning the best version of oneself—”

“I must admit it’s difficult for me to digest…”

“Nonetheless, I highly recommend this type of mind-set! The constant comparison to those you admire can lead to suffering, but envisioning your ideal self is entirely possible.”

“—”

With one hand on her chest, as she spoke, manifested understanding in Talitta’s eyes was a glimmer.

Perhaps some ringing truth had struck a chord deep within her.

“However, considering the deserting soldiers aside, what on earth could that man have done to warrant a bounty? I’m grateful that Abel’s situation isn’t circulating, but it’s likely something significant.”

“Who knows… Among those fitting the description of a blue-haired man, there may certainly be many. I’ve even got one in mind myself.”

While naturally, blue hair wouldn’t occur organically in his earlier world, it seemed somewhat commonplace in this land.

In the earlier checkpoint, the name of a drunken mercenary had also come to mind—Rauan, whom they’d borrowed from in Gwararu.

Though, due to Todd’s ambush, Rauan’s performance had ended without a chance to display his true strength, Subaru still thought he could possess considerable prowess.

Yet even so, he couldn’t imagine a wanted man who could create such a stir among the Imperial soldiers. Instead, it seemed a similar-looking someone was on the run.

“Regardless, considering the odds, Abel’s troubles haven’t reached the general foot soldiers… As long as there’s no turmoil in the Imperial Capital, then we might safely assume that a body double is acting as the Emperor.”

“It’s a mixed blessing of sorts. Honestly, it might have actually favored us if all this commotion popped up over the absent emperor.”

“It feels like a double-edged sword. Regardless of how things unfold for us, the fact that Abel is being hunted does not change.”

If it were made public that the emperor was absent and the Empire found itself in chaos, it would be uncertain how well Subaru and the team could navigate the situation. At the very least, Abel’s stance on not being ready to reveal themselves stemmed from a perceived power deficiency, and Subaru largely shared that sentiment.

Considering that, he felt somewhat uneasy about talking about diverting.

“Anyway, we’ve dodged that checkpoint. Shall we bring Abel out now?”

“Yes, that sounds appropriate. I want to voice some complaints too.”

Nodding to Al’s suggestion, Subaru crossed her arms to flaunt her faux bosom and showed signs of being incensed.

The cause of Subaru’s annoyance stemmed not just from the risky demands made to evade the checkpoint but also from Abel’s reckless behavior, which raised eyebrows during the inspection.

While conversing with the soldiers, sounds emanated from the bottom of the wagon multiple times, leaving Subaru fighting to cover it up successfully.

Ultimately, Subaru resorted to pretending to be a famished noble girl, saved only by the assertion of her hunger, although that reckless act tarnished Natsumi Schwarz’s elegant reputation.

“Your imperial majesty appears to lack self-awareness about your position.”

“Whoa, brother, you are pretty upset. Honestly, I think it’s perfectly fine for me to be annoyed by that.”

Ready to express discontent towards the impetuous emperor, Subaru was echoed by Al.

Thus, as Al lifted the floorboard to confront Abel, Subaru looked down at the wagon’s bottom space and—

“Hey, Abel! What in the world were you doing?! You made it so difficult to cover up what we were doing during the inspection—!”

“Ugh!”

“Hyaaa—?!”

As Subaru ranted, the discontent was swallowed by a shriek, with her leaping into Talitta’s arm. Reacting on instinct, Talitta caught her princess-style, leaving no chance to praise her excellent core stability.

Instead, an energetic girl with golden hair who was not Abel appeared.

This girl carried a familiar face and all-too-recognizable malign memories.

She was the last girl anyone wished to see—Lui.

The irregular representative from the Empire, Lui Arnebe, popped out from beneath the floor with vigor.

“N-no way!”

“Aha, ooh?”

“W-why are you in this wagon…?!”

“It seems you were undetected while I remained hidden beneath it. I never anticipated to go unnoticed this far. Most likely, it was Utakata’s doing.”

Subaru swayed-wide-eyed and stammering at the unexpected appearance of Lui, her query absorbed by Abel, who followed suit from below this time.

Clearing dust from his travel gear, Abel tussled through his disheveled black hair with one hand, before looking over at the girl in Talitta’s grasp who had already gotten cozy with Subaru, stating coolly,

“Hmph. It seems you are missed dearly. Hence, she must have opted to stay here instead of with Utakata or any other girls.”

“W-what calmness are you talking about? How could you even be alright down there?”

“Of course, I couldn’t be. Needlessly fidgeting below did nothing for my peace. I was worried about a disturbance catching the soldiers’ attention, considering how to cover my tracks.”

With the floorboard closed, Abel returned to his seat, and everything clicked for Subaru.

During the soldiers’ inspection, all the ruckus had stemmed from Lui’s presence below, which must have distracted everyone.

They must have been playfully tussling beneath the floor while Abel hurriedly hid beneath the wagon. How Abel had handled the situation was still uncertain, yet it seemed clear he lacked the ability to handle a child.

“What do you even do…?”

“I’m unjustly blamed again, but let’s watch what happens.”

“What do you mean watch?!”

“Let’s say there’s no chance of turning back at this stage. Nothing about that checkpoint would allow us to do so.”

“That’s as Abel dictates, right?”

Al pondered as he rapped his fingers on his helmet’s joints.

In the meantime, Subaru was set down by Talitta, valiantly suppressing Lui’s bright smile radiating excitement as she moved closer to Subaru.

“No way! Why did it end up like this…?!”

This overwhelming feeling of confusion and bewilderment swirled within her mind.

On the contrary, with Liu’s presence sparked a sense of relief—now that bumi reminded Grarul and they would not have to leave behind Lui as a source of anxiety next to Rem.

Surely, even if Subaru were too close to Lui, and despite being on-guard against her true nature, he wished for the assurance of someone known to be dangerous.

“Subaru, there’s nothing to do. We’ll just have to continue bringing Lui along.”

“Are you also saying that, Talitta?”

“Much like Abel says, we can’t backtrack now. Also, leaving Lui behind serves no remaining purpose. I comprehend the complexities between you and her, though…”

“—”

As Talitta glanced back and forth between Subaru and Lui, she cautiously presented a neutral opinion.

Having engaged with both Liu and the people of Shudrak over the course of the mission to infiltrate Gwararu, most of them were now aware of Subaru’s tensions and discomfort toward Lui.

Taking that into consideration, she felt compelled to say they couldn’t just leave Liu behind.

And, unfortunately, Subaru shared that sentiment.

“We can’t ignore this and risk causing trouble for those too unaware…”

“Uugh?”

With a quizzing tilt of her head, Lui appeared truly oblivious.

Given that since being propelled to Volakia, she hadn’t once expressed her malignant identity as the ‘Archbishop of Gluttony’ in front of anyone. However, it could be argued that it would not always remain that way, and if her true nature surfaced, the trouble would fall on Subaru’s shoulders.

Subaru was certain that he held the opportunity to prevent further havoc from rising.

He could just as easily tighten his hold around her slender neck and snuff her future out without much fuss.

Through just that single action, much of what loomed as worry could wilt away.

Yet—

“—”

“Gah, it’s complicated to be presented this way.”

As that full intent sang out, all doubts now sat heavily.

Thus, it finally grew more apparent to Subaru and Talitta.

It held merit to reveal Liu’s identity to all present, letting everyone know the truth about her being the ‘Archbishop of Gluttony.’

For those present, who hadn’t discarded their memories like Rem, it should have conveyed ubw apparent threat enough for recognition.

If they acknowledged the weight of the scenario, they would cease to reckon Liu as just another child.

Also, to dismantle a potential troublesome element would grant clarity—much-needed removal.

Yet—what to do about it?

“—”

“Uugh?”

As she remained clung to Talitta, looking at Subaru, Liu tilted her head once more.

After both Subaru and Al ceased their ruckus, it became evident that she calmed down whenever there was quiet.

Subaru had learned that Liu’s outbursts arise alongside chaotic surroundings.

In turn, around a relaxed Liu, she wouldn’t seem to draw attention to herself. Her compatibility with Utakata also merely stemmed from calming herself down to an unknowable depth.

Was that the disguise of the kind-hearted Lui Arnebe?

That white world they reached in the Pleiades Watchtower, the cruel girl who had appeared tirelessly in draped darkness, one well-versed in malice—was that all merely an artifice?

In pondering it, Subaru recognized the need to treat it cautiously.

That realization didn’t suppress the burden placed upon her.

“—That said, just as I mentioned, our focus wasn’t one of amusement or delight.”

At his side, lifted up advance, Abel coldly declared.

For the briefest moment, Subaru was unable to read his meaning but quickly discerned he was speaking on their treatment of Liu.

This journey was no frolic; Abel was asserting that as fact. As swiftly as his attention shifted toward Liu, that same blank stare fell back to Subaru, causing her frame to freeze.

In Abel’s gaze, it was devoid of warmth.

Absence of warmth would thus mean he couldn’t fathom any room for mercy or affection towards Liu, as though differentiating between a mere pebble on the road and a wildflower.

That very chilling stare clued Subaru into the path ahead under the weight of the truth unveiled of Liu.

“—We shall carry her with us.”

“—”

Instantly after she reached her conclusion, Liu’s unflinching gaze shifted back towards Subaru. That sharpness cut through the air and struck deep into Subaru’s chest, causing her to bite down on her molars and bury the tension deep within.

“Without the leisure of fun, exhibit your worth. …That’s how I expect it, isn’t it?”

“Yes, as expected of you.”

“That leaves ambiguity regarding your evaluation.”

Uncertain if Abel meant to convey disappointment or beyond, she found it equally challenging to comprehend.

Nevertheless, Abel withheld his clarifying purpose, and Subaru refrained from digging deeper out of fear it might unravel a differing result.

“Hey, hey, has our discussion reached a conclusion? When we’re done, please do come over to Liu too!”

“…Is that acceptable?”

As Subaru and Abel waited in a strained atmosphere, it seemed like Medium’s sudden arrival from the driver seat brought a breath of good news.

Abel had already lost interest; while Subaru was resolved to bring her along, the thought of holding Liu’s hand was no longer her desire. Thus, choosing to accept the kindness of the ladies felt right.

“Alright, Liu dear, will you take the reins? Let’s have Lady follow your commands!”

“Uugh!”

“Let’s not do that!”

At that exuberant suggestion, the driver’s area burst into excitement, and Liu greeted the two women with enthusiasm.

Given only Subaru harbored cautious wariness toward Liu, it was no surprise the other two responded amicably. The more pressing concern revolved around whether Rem, left back in Gwararu, was frantically searching for Liu’s figure.

“I can hardly believe that girl quietly slipped into the wagon on her own. If someone helped her, they must have shared the details with the folks back in the city.”

“….That’s more than likely.”

Observing Subaru’s worried expression, Abel responded coolly as though attempting to provide assurance.

As he indicated, if Utakata had aided Liu in hiding, that information would have likely disseminated among the others in the city including Rem too.

Neither did Subaru hold any assurance that Liu’s presence would soothe any anxiety for Rem.

“Not knowing one’s whereabouts is more alarming than assuming they’re safe under your care. In light of that assumption—”

“—? Of course, to have you as a companion is safer. Admittedly, it seems complicated from what Talitta has shared.”

Al’s musings received attention from Subaru, prompting a complicated feeling to bubble.

The ties among himself, Rem, and Liu were not easily tidied up.

“…Well, perhaps.”

Recollecting Rem’s figure behind his eyelids, Subaru justified his answer to himself.

Be it good or bad, Rem would surely be concerned about the girl. He preferred to share the truth with her at an appropriate time, yet in practice, without Liu, everything felt incomplete.

That meant they required Liu to stay safe.

“Brother?”

“No, it’s nothing… well, Al, I’d like to ask you for something. —Please, pay close attention to Liu.”

“…Why do you request that in such a shifting manner? What’s the deal with that little girl now?”

Not one to suppress his thoughts, Al reflected a sense of discomfort at Subaru’s speculation.

There was no denying a question arose out of concern, but for a brief moment, Subaru paused in his desired answer.

If it were Al, he would more openly trust the information regarding Liu compared to the others in the group.

However, Subaru worried about what Al might decide upon hearing that Lui was an ‘Archbishop of Sin.’ Would he grasp any danger, or would he lend an ear to discuss the concerns held equally with Subaru?

“…If that girl were to become wounded, Rem would inevitably suffer. I hope you won’t forget that.”

“—”

Momentarily, Abel let the tension hang in the air, but shortly after, he would relent.

“Alright, I shall oblige. I may worry about losing even the remaining arm, but I’ll try to work with her.”

Thus, Al effectively responded to Subaru’s request before positioning himself at the front of the seats in the wagon. He leaned back and stretched out his legs over the rocky ground.

That was certainly his natural way of accepting such a favor.

“—? What’s going on?”

Glancing at Al’s back, Subaru noticed a scrutinizing glance from Abel on her.

Leaning back with his arms crossed against the seat’s backrest, staring down through his unyielding black eyes, he made eye contact with Subaru, narrowing his brow in a mild display of displeasure.

That sensation stirred deep apprehension within her, creating sharp impulses as another question clawed from her tongue.

“But honestly, he doesn’t seem to have even thanked me yet for successfully passing through the checkpoint.”

The abrasive silence that Abel now perpetuated left Subaru feeling uncomfortable, as she unceremoniously smoothed her raven locks while settling onto a seat separate from both men.

While sensing overwhelming uncertainty for the road ahead, they pressed on toward the Magic City Chaos Frame. Though amidst all this, the cheerful yelping of Liu could be heard drawing the attention of the rest.

“Damn it, who do you think is suffering because of this?”

And so, little complaints and grumbles spilled out from her lips, finding themselves swallowed by the rattling sounds of the wagon’s motion.