Two hours later
After a leisurely walk through the woods, Elsa, Subaru, Beatrice, and Hikari finally arrived at Halibel's expansive training ground. The afternoon sun was high in the sky, casting dappled shadows through the branches above, and a soft breeze stirred the leaves and cooled the air. The open field was surrounded by tall trees, their branches swaying gently, adding a soothing rhythm to the otherwise quiet landscape. Birds chirped in the distance, and somewhere, water trickled faintly from a nearby stream.
Beneath the broad canopy of an old tree, Halibel lounged comfortably in the shade. He was reclined against the trunk, cigarette in hand, a thin trail of smoke curling lazily into the air. His expression was relaxed, his usual carefree demeanor entirely undisturbed. As always, his sharp eyes missed nothing, calmly surveying the surroundings. It was clear that Fraud and Iris had not yet arrived, and the training grounds held a sense of quiet anticipation—as if the land itself was waiting for something to begin.
When he spotted the approaching group, Halibel raised a hand in greeting, a playful smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Su-san! I've got to admit, I didn't expect you to bring this little devil along," he said, his tone teasing but warmly familiar. As Hikari stepped closer, he reached out to ruffle her hair, his fingers brushing her head with casual affection. Then, his eyes flicked to Beatrice, standing at Subaru's side, and he gave a brief, curious glance—more out of habit than concern.
Hikari puffed out her cheeks, her small fists clenched at her sides. "Hal-san! I'm not a devil! I'm here to train seriously!"
Subaru chuckled, giving her head a reassuring pat. "Good morning, Hal-san. Hikari's been really motivated lately. She wanted to grow stronger, and I thought she'd be better off here than sitting idly at the inn. Beatrice was kind enough to offer her guidance—and mine, too, actually."
Halibel raised an eyebrow as he looked Subaru up and down. "That's… surprisingly responsible of you," he remarked, then gave a lazy shrug. "Still, I get it. Having flexible fighters on the battlefield is always a plus. And Hikari definitely looks eager. I see no problem with you using the grounds while we wait for Fraud and Iris." He gestured casually to a shaded area not far off, where the grass was thick and soft under a cluster of trees.
Subaru bowed his head slightly. "Appreciate it, Hal-san."
The four made their way over to the shaded patch. Elsa silently moved to lean against one of the thicker trees, her posture casual but alert. Her eyes continuously scanned the surroundings, never lingering long in one spot. Occasionally, her gaze flickered to Hikari or to Beatrice, lingering on them with unreadable thoughts.
Subaru and Hikari settled onto the grass, the cool earth beneath them a pleasant contrast to the sun's warmth. The breeze rustled the leaves above, and the occasional call of a distant bird broke the quiet. Floating gently in front of them was a large spirit, its form shimmering faintly with a pale blue light. It exuded a calming energy, as if soothing the atmosphere just by its presence.
Beatrice stepped closer, her expression growing more serious. "Before we begin any real practice, I need to determine your magical affinity," she said, placing her small hand gently on top of Hikari's head.
Though Hikari already knew her element, she remained quiet, not wanting to interrupt Beatrice's process. She closed her eyes and allowed the spirit user to feel the flow of mana within her.
Beatrice's eyes opened slowly, a hint of curiosity in her gaze. "Yang magic," she murmured. "That's a rare affinity. To be honest, I expected you and your brother to share the same elemental alignment. Apparently, I was mistaken."
Hikari's eyes lit up. "So does that mean you can teach me something cool now?"
Beatrice gave a soft, almost imperceptible sigh. "If you're serious, then yes. Get up. Let's start with the basics. Draw mana from your gate—feel it welling up—and gather it in the center of your palm. Compress the energy, concentrate it with your will, and then release it forward. This is the most fundamental Yang attack spell: Jiwald."
With a flick of her sleeve, Beatrice extended her arm. Her fingers spread, and she focused. "Jiwald," she said firmly. A brilliant ball of condensed light formed in her palm, pulsing with heat and energy, before it shot forward in a dazzling burst, whistling sharply as it sliced through the air.
Hikari watched, captivated. Her eyes sparkled with both awe and determination. "Okay! My turn!" she announced, standing up quickly and mimicking Beatrice's posture. She closed her eyes, recalling how she had once healed her brother. She tried to channel that same inner energy, focusing it into her palm.
But compression proved harder than she expected. The energy refused to stay focused—it swirled, shimmered, and scattered. What appeared in her hand wasn't a controlled energy sphere, but a diffuse cluster of glittering light, like the glow of a lantern breaking apart.
Subaru couldn't hold back his laughter. "That's one fancy flashlight!" he said through chuckles.
Beatrice pursed her lips, trying to keep a stern face, but the corners of her mouth twitched before a small giggle escaped. Even Elsa, normally composed and distant, allowed herself a faint smirk as she shook her head slightly.
Hikari's face turned bright red as she stared at the ground in embarrassment. But after a moment, she clenched her fists and looked back up, her eyes fierce with determination.
"Again! I'm doing it again! I won't stop until I get it right!"
Her voice rang with conviction, and for a moment, everything else—the laughter, the breeze, even the spirit—seemed to pause and listen.
Beatrice turned to Subaru this time, folding her arms with a soft huff. "Hmph, I suppose it's your turn now. Try not to embarrass me, I suppose."
Subaru leaned forward slightly, hands on his knees and a mischievous grin dancing on his lips. "Been waiting for this, sensei. Hit me with your best shot."
Beatrice gave him a flat stare, but her eyes softened slightly. She hesitated, then spoke with an air of thoughtful precision. "Your case is a bit different from the others. As my contractor, you have a natural resonance with magic—especially Yin-based spells. That makes it easier for you to cast certain kinds of magic. The spell I'll show you now is called 'Vita.' It belongs to the Yin element."
She lifted a finger, and a faint shimmer of mana gathered in the air. "This spell increases the physical and mental load on its target. It doesn't harm them directly, but it weighs them down—slowing their movements, straining their focus. For someone like you, who relies on surprise and agility, it can open crucial windows during a fight."
Subaru's playful demeanor faded. He narrowed his eyes and nodded, seriousness settling over him. "So, it throws them off-balance while quietly suppressing their reaction time."
Beatrice nodded. "Exactly. It's not flashy, but it's effective—especially when paired with stealth or misdirection. To cast it, you must first sense the energy flow around you. Feel its weight. Then, direct that burden toward the target."
Without another word, Beatrice turned to a massive stone resting on the training field. She raised her hand toward it. A brief pulse of mana surged through her palm.
"El Vita."
At once, the stone let out a low groan as though something invisible was pressing down on it. Cracks splintered across its surface, and it sank a few centimeters into the ground. The raw pressure of the spell was unmistakable.
Subaru watched intently, awe flickering across his expression. After a breath, he stepped forward and rolled his shoulders.
"Alright. My turn."
He positioned himself in front of a similar stone, inhaled slowly, and began to gather mana. It was different from Shamak, which affected areas and senses. This time, he was focusing on a direct object—a point of intense concentration.
He closed his eyes. Felt the flow. Sought the pressure.
"Vita," he whispered, willing the mana forward.
Nothing happened. His eyes twitched open. The stone sat inert. He frowned, focusing again.
"Vita," he repeated with more force, adding a greater portion of mana.
Still, no response.
Frustration crawled up his spine. He exhaled through clenched teeth, then drew on his reserves.
"VITA! Times ten!"
The mana surged like a tidal wave from his core, flooding through his limbs and into his outstretched palm. The air shimmered around the stone. A deep rumble followed, and suddenly the stone gave way. Its center caved in, the surface flattening with an audible crunch. The mana pressure had been overwhelming.
Gasps filled the clearing.
Beatrice's eyes widened. Elsa raised a curious brow. Hikari stood with her mouth slightly agape.
Beatrice tilted her head, studying him. "You can multi-cast like that? That level of repeated amplification... I thought only Roswaal had the capacity to handle it."
Subaru offered a modest shrug and a sheepish grin. "Eh. I just multiplied the mana output and crammed it all into one go. Sort of brute-forced it."
Hikari puffed her cheeks in protest, fists balled at her sides. "Unfair! Onii-chan's acting like he's been training in secret or something!"
Elsa let out a soft chuckle, arms loosely crossed. "Sweet Hikari, your brother barely managed one spell before. And trust me, he still has a long way to go. There are plenty of things he can't do."
Hikari spun toward her with a curious frown. "Like what?"
Subaru stepped up proudly, crossing his arms. "For starters, I can't use Yang magic. It's the polar opposite of Yin. No fireballs or healing spells for me."
Just as the words left his mouth, a familiar echo rang inside his mind—the ancient, calm voice of Flugel emerging from the depths of his consciousness.
"Didn't I already tell you? You've created a false affinity. True, you can't use pure Yang spells like Jiwald, or those based on healing or support. But even with your mismatched element, you can manipulate basic spells well enough. Don't let limitations bind you when innovation can bridge the gap."
Subaru blinked, then chuckled under his breath. "Good to hear from you again, Flugel. I missed your dramatic timing."
Beatrice, still watching him with that quiet seriousness of hers, added her own note. "If you ever form a contract with a Yang spirit, things may change. Spells born from spirit contracts don't depend on your mana reserves the same way. They're fueled by the bond between soul and spirit."
Subaru turned toward her, curiosity lighting up his expression. "So, even if I'm Yin-aligned, I could use Yang spells through a spirit pact?"
Beatrice gave a faint nod. "In theory, yes. But spirit contracts are not forged lightly. They require more than magical potential. They demand trust, harmony, and shared will."
Elsa glanced between them and smirked. "Sounds like a long-term relationship. You sure you're ready for that kind of commitment, Subaru?"
Subaru groaned and ran a hand through his hair. "I can barely commit to a sleep schedule, let alone a spirit."
Laughter rippled among the group, momentarily breaking the seriousness in the air.
Yet in Subaru's eyes, a fire had been lit—quiet, but unwavering. He had touched the edge of possibility, and even if the path forward was uncertain, he was ready to walk it.
Subaru brought a hand to his chin, his fingers brushing lightly against the stubble-less skin as a contemplative expression settled on his face. "Maybe this affinity issue... I could work around it like this." His tone was thoughtful, more to himself than to anyone else. He slowly turned his gaze to Beatrice, eyes narrowing with intent. "Beako, is there any downside if I make a pact with a minor spirit?"
Beatrice frowned, clearly unimpressed by his casual tone. Her lips pursed into a tight line. "Asking Betty something like that so casually is a bit hurtful, I suppose. I'm not some dusty reference book, you know. But... minor spirits are generally not sentient. They're more like echoes of mana than proper beings. So no, it wouldn't prevent you from forming a bond with a greater spirit in the future. Just remember: you can only contract one minor spirit at a time. Make it count."
Subaru smiled with mild embarrassment, giving her a subtle nod in gratitude. The wheels in his mind were already turning with possibilities. Nearby, Hikari was still muttering under her breath, her face a mix of frustration and exaggerated pouting. Her arms were crossed tightly, as though hugging her own disappointment.
Just then, two figures appeared in the distance. They were silhouettes at first, barely distinguishable through the haze of heat and dust. But as they drew closer to the training grounds, the pair became more recognizable. Fraud and Iris had finally arrived.
Fraud looked mildly fatigued. His movements were a little sluggish, and beads of sweat clung to his forehead, but his eyes sparkled with energy, the kind that suggested he was eager to catch up. Iris, in contrast, sprinted toward the group at full speed, arms thrown wide like wings, yelling with unfiltered excitement.
With a loud, gleeful shout, she lunged at Hikari, wrapping her up in a tight embrace and spinning her around with unrestrained force. "Hi-chan! It's so good to see you again! I missed you so much! You're not allowed to disappear for that long ever again, got it?!"
Fraud stumbled after her, panic creeping into his voice as he flailed his arms. "Iris! You're going to suffocate her! Let go! She's seriously going to die at this rate!"
Subaru and Elsa stood a few steps away, arms folded, silently observing the unfolding chaos. They exchanged a knowing look. Without speaking, they both came to the same conclusion, the same dark thought flashing through their minds: "Should we just kill them now? Silence would be guaranteed."
Eventually, after things calmed down a little—and Iris was forcibly pried off of Hikari by a wheezing Fraud—the group composed themselves. The four participants in Halibel's special training—Subaru, Elsa, Fraud, and Iris—lined up at the center of the training field. The wind stirred across the open ground, kicking up brief flurries of dust. The sky overhead was bright, the sun casting long, dramatic shadows.
Halibel stood at the front, his imposing figure unmoving, gripping a heavy, flat-edged training sword across his broad shoulders. The expression on his face was one of complete seriousness, brows furrowed as if carved in stone.
"Alright," Halibel said, his voice calm but laced with command. "Here's the plan for today. We split into pairs. Elsa and Iris, you're taking the far side of the field. You'll be training with heavy weapons. Practice footwork and balance. Elsa, and I mean this seriously—try not to injure yourself on purpose this time."
Iris let out a loud, exaggerated sigh and immediately began to grumble, as was her trademark. "Also, could you please cover up those huge boobs? They're too distracting! I can't swing a sword properly when they're bouncing around in my peripheral vision! It's like they have their own gravitational pull!"
Subaru didn't miss a beat. He slowly turned his head toward Fraud with a glare so intense it could melt iron. His expression said everything: "If you look, you die." Fraud visibly stiffened, beads of sweat forming instantly. He turned his head so fast it almost snapped, staring at the nearest patch of grass like it held the secrets of the universe. He began to nervously count under his breath, desperate to think of literally anything else.
Elsa exhaled sharply, placing a hand on her hip. Her tone was dry. "There's not much I can do about it. And besides, yours are too small to be a distraction, so what's your excuse?"
The verbal strike hit Iris like an arrow to the soul. She froze in place, clutched her chest as though she'd been mortally wounded, and dramatically sank to her knees. "One day... One day I will have my revenge. Mark my words, Elsa... you won't see it coming."
Subaru had to bite his lip to suppress his laughter. Shaking his head, he pulled off his black cloak and held it out to Elsa. "Here. Try this. Might help reduce the visual chaos. Maybe you'll be able to fight without becoming the battlefield's main event."
Elsa blinked, then smirked. "Hm? So you are jealous after all," she said teasingly, taking the cloak and slipping it over her shoulders in one smooth motion.
Iris was still on the ground, fists clenched into the dirt, her entire body shaking with melodramatic rage. Her eyes burned with a storm of dark determination, as if she were preparing for an anime-style power-up. "One day... vengeance will be mine...! I swear it upon my future bust!"
Fraud muttered, still facing the grass. "Please just let me survive this training session..."
Halibel sighed deeply, lifting the training sword and resting it on his shoulder again. "If you're all done playing around, get into position. We're starting with movement drills. If I see anyone slacking, I'll double the pace."
Everyone straightened up instantly, the atmosphere shifting from playful to disciplined in a heartbeat. Subaru narrowed his eyes, a smirk tugging at the corners of his lips. This might have started with jokes, but real training was about to begin.
And judging by the fire in everyone's eyes, none of them intended to hold back.
Halibel spoke up again, his tone shifting from casual to firm, the laid-back grin on his face giving way to a more focused intensity. "You two—Subaru and Fraud—will be focusing on endurance training here. Blood, sweat, tears... everything is allowed. The only thing that's off the table is mana. I want your bodies, not your magic, to be your weapons."
Subaru tilted his head slightly, puzzled by the demand. "What kind of training are we talking about exactly? Just sparring?"
Halibel's grin returned, but this time it was sharper—more like the smile of someone who knew exactly how much suffering he was about to inflict. He raised both fists and cracked his knuckles. "Long-form, unrelenting combat. You'll be pushing your physical limits until your muscles burn, your lungs scream, and your legs give out. Punching, kicking, dodging—everything you've got, over and over, until your body refuses to move. And even then, I'll expect more. No breaks. No excuses. You're both coming at me now. Let's see if you've got the willpower to match your ambition."
And with that declaration, a brutal routine began—one that would quickly become synonymous with pain, fatigue, and transformation. As long as the sun remained in the sky, they would train under Halibel's ruthless watch. The physical training was merciless: drills that seemed endless, sprints until their legs trembled, sparring matches that tested not just skill, but grit. Their clothes were soaked in sweat before midday, their bodies already crying for rest.
But there would be none.
The moment night fell and darkness blanketed the forest around the training field, the next phase began: magical practice. Subaru, being more attuned to mana flow and control, was tasked with leading this part of the regimen. It wasn't an official role, but he took it seriously. Every evening, he and Fraud would sit under the moonlight, focusing their minds, channeling their inner energy, and practicing spells until their auras shimmered from overuse.
Sometimes Beatrice would silently appear in the distance, arms crossed, eyes narrowing as she observed. She rarely intervened, but when she did, her feedback was precise and cutting. "Your channeling is sloppy, Fraud." "Subaru, your transitions between spell nodes are inefficient." Her critiques, while pointed, carried the tone of someone who expected better—because she knew they were capable of more.
This relentless cycle became their daily existence. Morning to evening, their bodies were punished. Evening to midnight, their spirits were tested. Pain became a familiar companion—sharp muscle aches, bruised ribs, split lips, and the ache of mana depletion. Every day they woke up more sore than the last, and every night they collapsed onto their beds, barely able to keep their eyes open.
By the end of the first week, even something as simple as lifting a spoon at breakfast felt like a herculean task for Subaru. Fraud, normally quick-tempered and cocky, had grown noticeably more focused, his fiery outbursts replaced by quiet determination. By the second week, Subaru had learned to breathe through the fire in his muscles, to fight past the shaking of his limbs. He stopped asking how much longer he could last and started asking how much more he could take.
Fraud's growth was no less impressive. His form, once chaotic and wild, began to sharpen. His footwork tightened. His strikes grew deliberate. The boy who once fought with reckless abandon was now learning control, discipline—and patience.
Each blow they exchanged, each fall to the dirt, and every gasp for breath was forging something new within them. The battlefield was no longer just a place of conflict—it had become a crucible. And inside it, they were being reforged.
What had begun as a waking nightmare was slowly revealing its purpose. They were becoming faster, more disciplined, more resilient. The improvements were subtle at first—a dodge that landed just in time, a spell cast without hesitation—but over time, they became undeniable. Even the air around them began to change, charged with quiet tension, as if the land itself recognized the warriors they were becoming.
And this was only the beginning. Halibel's plan stretched across two entire months.
Sixty days of sweat-drenched mornings, of aching afternoons, of meals devoured in near silence, of sleep that came only through sheer exhaustion. They rose before the light and trained long after the stars had taken their place in the sky. It was brutal, unforgiving—and completely necessary.
Not once did Subaru or Fraud complain. Not once did they ask for it to stop. Because they understood this wasn't just about strength.
They weren't training for the sake of training.
They were preparing.
For the trials ahead. For the enemies that waited. For the future they hoped to protect.
Every bruise was a lesson. Every scream was a promise.
And every day brought them one step closer to becoming the warriors they needed to be.
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TWO MONTHS LATER:
Over the span of two months, the once-frozen landscape of winter had given way to the gentle rebirth of spring. Snowdrifts receded into memory, and the scent of damp earth and budding greenery now filled the air. The training grounds, once blanketed in white silence, now echoed with the chirping of birds and the rhythmic clash of practice weapons. It was a place transformed—much like its inhabitants.
Subaru had undergone an extraordinary transformation. His body, once average by this world's standards, had become something formidable. Through relentless training and endless sparring sessions, his raw strength had multiplied. He could now shatter thick stones with a single punch, outrun trained warriors, and parry attacks with a precision born not just of instinct but of discipline. What once required mana reinforcement—leaps, dodges, acrobatics—he now achieved with the sheer strength of his refined physique. His stamina allowed him to push through days of combat drills without faltering, and his reflexes were now too fast to follow with the naked eye.
Elsa, ever the deadly blade, had also ascended to new heights. Her development, however, was more subtle and internal. For the first time, she had begun using mana—tentatively at first, then with a growing command that astonished even her instructors. Her control had become sharp and efficient, augmenting her assassin skills to terrifying effect. Thanks to Halibel's guidance in shinobi arts, forbidden curses, and the elusive 'invisible step' technique, she could now erase her presence entirely. She no longer needed brute force or intimidation—just one breath, and she could be behind her target. Her movements were smooth, deliberate, and silent as death.
Hikari's progress was equally inspiring. While she had always been spirited and full of energy, her grasp of yang-elemental magic had matured immensely. Her flames burned hotter and moved with purpose; spells like Jiwald now erupted from her hands in controlled bursts of searing power. Beyond offense, she'd also excelled in healing and buffing magic, enhancing her allies' abilities in the midst of battle. Slowly, she had begun to earn quiet nods of approval from even the most seasoned warriors. She was no longer the bubbly girl tagging along—she was a dependable battle mage.
Fraud and Iris had taken a different route in their development. Instead of raw might or magical prowess, they focused on precision, observation, and battlefield awareness. They had learned to read enemy stances in seconds, predict incoming ambushes, and coordinate team strategies under pressure. In combat scenarios, they often acted as anchors—ensuring seamless communication, setting up traps, and enabling their more aggressive companions to shine. The synergy they displayed on the field was no accident; it was the result of relentless trial, failure, and growth.
Occasionally, Rem and Meili would join the fray. Meili would summon magical beasts of various sizes, each more chaotic than the last, turning training into live survival scenarios. Rem, with her sturdy stance and sharp strikes, added a balance to the chaos—acting as both a guide and an opponent. These joint sessions brought laughter, frustration, and unexpected moments of joy, making the long days less of a burden. There were evenings when they would all collapse under the stars, exhausted and smiling, bound by the silent pride of shared effort.
Through all of this, one relationship in particular had flourished: Subaru and Beatrice. Inseparable in routine, they had grown into a rhythm that felt natural and comforting. Mornings began with sleepy eyes and shared tea; afternoons passed with reading, training, and walking under the trees; nights ended with whispered words and soft embraces. Beatrice, who had long kept her softer emotions locked behind a wall of tsundere stubbornness, had slowly allowed those barriers to fall—if only around Subaru. In return, he gave her the kind of unwavering presence she had never dared to hope for. Together, they built something fragile but real.
As spring matured and whispers of summer drifted into the breeze, so too came the inevitable news: it was almost time to leave Kararagi. The air grew heavier with each passing day, a mix of excitement and melancholy settling in their hearts. On the final morning, Subaru and Elsa made their way to the training grounds, neither speaking much but both understanding the weight of the day.
Waiting for them were Halibel, Fraud, and Iris, already standing at the center of the field. The sun shone warmly above, casting golden light across the worn ground where so many battles had been fought. The scent of grass and steel hung thick, and even the wind seemed to pause.
Fraud spotted them first and waved, his usual composure melting into a warm grin. "I have to say, these two months slipped away like a dream. It honestly feels like we only just started."
Subaru returned the smile, his eyes calm but reflective. "Yeah... It's strange. We pushed ourselves so hard, but looking back, it went by in a flash."
Halibel, true to form, pulled one last drag from his cigarette before flicking it aside and stomping the butt into the soil. He looked each of them in the eye before speaking. "No way we're ending this with a boring goodbye. One last spar—right here, right now. This is your final measure. Not just to prove how far you've come, but to show each other what kind of warriors you've become."
A silence fell over the group—but only for a second. Smiles broke out across each face. They had hoped for this.
Without hesitation, they moved into formation. Just like on their first day. Same field. Same positions. But everything else had changed. The uncertainty in their steps was gone, replaced by the weight of experience. They were faster. Smarter. Stronger. And above all else, they now looked at each other not just as companions, but as comrades forged by fire.
And with that unspoken understanding between them, the final match began.
Wars had begun, echoing through the training grounds like thunder. The clash between Elsa and Iris was intense, fierce blows ringing out as steel met steel. They moved like twin dancers, matching each other's attacks with perfect rhythm. Despite bruises and ragged breathing, neither yielded, and the match ended in an honorable draw.
Meanwhile, Subaru and Fraud squared off in an electrifying duel. Sparks flew from clashing swords, and bursts of mana exploded around them like stars. Every strike seemed to test the limits of their strength. After a prolonged battle, Subaru finally overcame Fraud with a final, precise strike.
Breathing heavily, Fraud picked himself up and wiped blood from his lip. "I didn't think I'd lose today," he said, grinning. "But you've got some serious skill."
Subaru, wiping sweat from his brow, replied, "You're no slouch yourself. Your sword technique is top-notch. I just had a slight edge with my mana. Without it, I'm not sure I would've won."
Halibel stepped forward, his cloak billowing, and gave a rumbling laugh. "Outstanding fight, both of you. Remember, true warriors never stop growing. One day, I'll be the one struggling to keep up with you."
Subaru chuckled. "We'll see, Hal-san. So far, we can't even graze you properly."
Halibel tapped Subaru's head lightly. "Patience. Great power comes in its own time."
Elsa and Iris joined them, settling onto stones nearby. They shared tales of earlier battles and training mishaps, laughter weaving through the group. The sun blazed overhead, casting sharp shadows. As silence gradually fell, it became clear the time for goodbyes had come.
Halibel's voice broke the quiet, softer now. "Both of you are welcome back any time. I'll look forward to crossing swords again
Subaru smiled warmly. "We'd never say no to that offer."
Fraud pulled out a small, beautifully wrapped box from inside his jacket and handed it to Subaru. "A farewell gift. So you remember me, and so you'll come back for another fight someday."
Subaru opened it to reveal intricate dagger fittings in black and red. His eyes lit up. "These are perfect. Thanks, Fraud. I'll wear them proudly."
Nearby, Iris gave Elsa a rolled-up piece of fabric. Elsa unwrapped it to reveal a flowing black cloak, its texture familiar and reminiscent of times at Rom's tavern. Iris winked. "You'll need it… to keep certain things hidden." She made a subtle gesture toward Elsa's chest.
Elsa blushed faintly but said nothing, folding the cloak with care.
Finally, Halibel presented two long boxes wrapped in dark leather. "In Kararagi, gifts like these are traditions shared between masters and disciples, or rivals who've earned each other's respect."
When Subaru opened the box, he found a pack of pipes of the same brand that Halibel used. He raised his eyebrows. "Are you sure this is the right gift, Hal-san?"
Halibel laughed deeply. "One day, you'll see why. And you'll thank me then."
Elsa opened her box and found a sleek black pipes case, different from Subaru's but equally stylish. Both of them looked bemused, but somehow, it fit perfectly with Halibel's eccentric spirit.
Together, they stood in the sun's glow, the bonds between them stronger than ever, ready for whatever came next.
The final words were spoken, and the last farewells exchanged. Subaru and Elsa offered one final round of thanks before stepping out of the training grounds, ready to leave Kararagi behind. They carried with them memories of friendship, fierce battles, laughter, and two months of intense growth and unforgettable experiences.
After those challenging months of rigorous training and forging bonds in Kararagi, Subaru and Elsa finally returned to the inn where they had been staying. The sun was shining brightly outside, casting golden beams through the windows. Inside, the warm scent of wood and herbs filled the air, adding to the comfort of the familiar surroundings. On the ground floor, Rem stood waiting for them, her eyes lighting up at the sight of Subaru and Elsa. Beside her, several large suitcases were neatly packed, filled with all their belongings, reminders of the days they had spent there.
Subaru stepped forward and called out with a faint but joyful smile, "We're back, Rem."
Rem turned, clasping her hands together, her expression overflowing with relief and affection. "Subaru-kun, you're finally here. I've been waiting for you for so long. The inn has felt empty without you all."
Elsa scanned the lobby curiously, her sharp eyes taking in every detail. "Where are Meili and Hikari?"
Rem tilted her head slightly toward the staircase, her voice soft. "Hikari, Meili, and Beatrice-sama are upstairs. They've been spending a lot of time together, laughing and talking. It's been quite lively."
Subaru squared his shoulders and spoke with quiet resolve. "I'll go bring them down. Elsa, Rem, stay here and make sure everything is ready. Our dragon carriage should arrive any minute now, and we can't afford any delays."
Elsa gave a small nod of agreement and stepped toward the door, keeping an eye outside for the carriage. Rem, meanwhile, smiled gently and returned her focus to rearranging the suitcases, adjusting straps and handles to ensure nothing would be forgotten.
Subaru began climbing the stairs, each step creaking under his weight, echoing through the quiet corridor. The soft glow of lanterns on the walls illuminated his way, casting comforting shadows around him. As he reached the upper floor, the air felt different — charged with a mixture of familiarity and the anticipation of departing once more.
The first person Subaru encountered was Beatrice, standing with her arms crossed, wearing her usual pout. But her eyes betrayed her true emotions — they sparkled with relief and happiness at seeing him.
"Beako! It's great to see you. How've you been holding up?"
Beatrice sniffed, trying to look unimpressed, but the corners of her lips curled upward in a smile. "It seems you've finally managed to return, in fact. Betty grew quite bored waiting for you, I suppose, though she might deny it if you ask again."
Subaru laughed, his relief bubbling out in a soft chuckle, and without thinking, reached out to ruffle Beatrice's hair. She tried to swat his hand away, though without much conviction, her cheeks faintly pink.
At that moment, the door beside them swung open suddenly, thudding against the wall. Hikari and Meili emerged into the corridor. Meili crossed her arms and gave Subaru a pointed stare, a blend of playful annoyance and affection in her eyes as she watched him fuss over Beatrice. Hikari remained quiet, observing everything with calm curiosity, though a small smile played at the edge of her lips, hinting that she understood well the bonds shared between Subaru and the others.
Subaru took a deep breath and looked around at all of them, his eyes reflecting a mix of determination and affection. "It's time to go. If you're all ready, let's head downstairs and get moving."
With that, the group began gathering themselves, the sound of footsteps and hushed conversations filling the hallway as they prepared to embark on their next journey.
The four of them began making their way toward the stairs. Their footsteps echoed softly against the wooden floor, a quiet rhythm that somehow underscored the weight of departure. But just as they reached the first step, the group hesitated. Subaru glanced at the others and, with a sheepish chuckle, realized something amusingly impractical—he couldn't possibly hold three hands at the same time.
With a gentle grin tugging at his lips, he crouched slightly and hoisted Hikari up onto his shoulder, her laughter bubbling out in surprise and delight. With his right hand, he reached for Beatrice, her small fingers curling into his with practiced ease. With his left, he grasped Meili's hand, who gave an exaggerated roll of her eyes but didn't resist. The sight of the three girls connected to him like mismatched puzzle pieces was oddly heartwarming. A mixture of chaos, affection, and shared history—it was a snapshot of the life they'd forged together.
Just then, a voice flickered to life in Subaru's mind. Wry, mocking, and unmistakably familiar: "Does the name 'Lolimancer ' ring a bell?"
Subaru exhaled, both amused and vaguely exasperated. Still, a smirk found its way onto his face. "Meh… I kind of like the sound of it," he murmured, chuckling under his breath. The title was ridiculous, maybe even embarrassing, but somehow... it felt earned.
By the time they reached the ground floor, the dragon carriage had already arrived outside the inn. The rhythmic stomp of Patrasche's heavy hooves was oddly comforting, like an old song from a forgotten time. Rem stood beside the creature, her hands firm around the reins. Her calm demeanor masked the quiet emotion in her eyes. Just a few feet away, Elsa was organizing their baggage with precise efficiency, her sharp gaze scanning over every strap and bundle. She didn't say much, but her presence alone was grounding.
This was Patrasche—the same loyal ground dragon Subaru had ridden through countless battles, through snowstorms, fire, and death. How she had ended up in Kararagi remained a mystery. Had Crusch sent her here? Had fate simply found a way to reunite them? Subaru still didn't know. But the moment he saw her, any doubt vanished. Her eyes had lit up with recognition, and she'd nuzzled into his chest like no time had passed. Buying her back hadn't even been a question—it had been instinct.
A few steps from the dragon carriage stood Maria, the innkeeper who had housed them for the past several weeks. She wasn't bustling with chores as usual. Today, she stood still, arms folded lightly over her chest, eyes soft. Subaru stepped forward, his boots crunching lightly against the gravel path, and turned around to take in the sight of the inn one last time. The faded paint, the ivy crawling up the side walls, even the slightly cracked windows—they all felt like threads in a familiar tapestry.
"Thank you for taking care of us all this time, Maria," he said quietly, bowing from the waist with genuine respect.
Hikari followed suit beside him, bowing low with equal sincerity. Maria's expression twisted, and though she clearly tried to maintain her composure, a quivering smile broke through.
"Ah, don't go all sentimental on me," she said, forcing a light laugh. "You paid plenty for your stay... eheh. Still... it was nice having you all here. The place'll feel a bit emptier without the chaos."
Subaru gave her a final, solemn nod and turned away before he could change his mind. Behind him, Hikari lingered for a moment, exchanging a few quiet words with Maria. They weren't dramatic farewells—just warm, honest ones. Hikari had also made a stop earlier that morning to bid goodbye to Marcus, the old blacksmith. The man had gruffly patted her head and sent her off with a forged pendant for luck. She'd hugged him tightly in return, whispering thanks.
Back at the carriage, Elsa, Meili, and Beatrice had already settled in. Beatrice had claimed a corner seat and was fiddling with the ends of her cloak, occasionally casting glances at Subaru. Meili had taken the spot beside her, arms crossed, pretending to be bored, though her eyes kept darting to the scenery around them. Elsa sat quietly, gaze fixed on the road ahead, the tip of one dagger hidden under her cloak for comfort more than protection.
Rem climbed into the driver's seat, her hands gripping the reins with practiced ease. Her expression was unreadable, but the way she squared her shoulders betrayed her readiness to move forward—both literally and figuratively.
Once the final bags were loaded and the doors closed, Subaru helped Hikari up into the carriage and climbed in after her. There was a moment of stillness, a breath held by all.
With a light pull on the reins, Patrasche began to walk. The wheels of the carriage creaked against the cobblestone road, the sound marking the official start of their departure. Kararagi faded slowly behind them, its familiar warmth lingering in the morning air.
None of them looked back for long. There was no need. The memories they carried were enough.
And so, with the sun rising at their backs, they set off—not just to another place, but toward a new chapter of unknown trials, reunions, and the promise of something more.