The Day of the Plan
Julius approached the Roswaal mansion with cautious optimism. Everything was in place—Emilia had successfully taken Subaru away on the diplomatic mission, and the arrangements for Rem's stay in Kararagi were complete. All he needed was to discreetly escort Rem out of the mansion without attracting attention.
As he entered the mansion, however, the sound of hurried footsteps caught his ear. Before he could react, Ram appeared at the end of the hallway, her crimson eyes blazing with fury. She marched toward him, her expression cold and unrelenting.
"Julius Juukulius," she said, her voice like a blade slicing through the air. "You have some explaining to do."
Julius swallowed hard but maintained his composure. "Ram. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
Ram narrowed her eyes. "Cut the pleasantries. Rem told me everything."
Julius froze. "Everything?"
"Yes. About your... indiscretion. About the child. About your ridiculous plan to 'kidnap' her and take her to Kararagi." Ram's voice grew louder with each word. "You think you can make decisions for my sister without my involvement? Think again."
Julius sighed, realizing there was no point in denying it. "Ram, I assure you, my intentions are honorable. I will take full responsibility for my actions and ensure that both Rem and the child are safe."
Ram crossed her arms. "Oh, you will take responsibility, all right. But don't think for a second that I trust you to do it alone. Come with me—Rem is waiting for us in her room. We're going to discuss this properly."
When Julius entered the room, he saw Rem sitting on the edge of her bed, her hands folded in her lap. Her face was pale, and her eyes were downcast. Ram stood beside her, her hand resting protectively on her sister's shoulder.
"Julius-sama," Rem said softly, looking up at him with teary eyes.
"Rem," Julius replied, his voice gentle. "I didn't expect you to involve Ram in this."
"She's my sister," Rem said, her voice trembling. "I couldn't hide it from her. I was scared, Julius-sama. I didn't know what else to do."
Ram stepped forward, her gaze sharp. "Rem is my family, and I won't stand by while you whisk her away without a proper plan. If you think you can make her face this alone, you're mistaken."
"That was never my intention," Julius said firmly. "I've arranged everything to ensure her safety and comfort. She will stay in my estate in Kararagi, away from prying eyes, until the child is born."
"And then what?" Ram demanded. "You expect her to just return here as if nothing happened? Do you think Subaru will forgive her—or you?"
Julius looked away, guilt flashing across his face. "I know Subaru will be hurt, but this is the best solution for everyone. Rem deserves a chance to protect the life she's carrying without unnecessary conflict."
Rem finally spoke up, her voice barely above a whisper. "Ram-nee-sama, I... I made a mistake, but Julius-sama has promised to take care of me and the child. I just want to keep Subaru-kun from getting hurt."
Ram sighed, her anger softening slightly as she looked at her sister. "Rem, you've always been too kind for your own good. But if you're going to do this, then I'm going with you."
Julius blinked in surprise. "You're coming with us?"
"Of course," Ram said sharply. "I'm not letting my sister face this alone, and I don't trust you to handle it without making things worse. Besides, Subaru will need to believe the kidnapping story, and I can help make it convincing."
Rem looked at her sister with wide eyes. "Ram-nee-sama... thank you."
Ram patted her shoulder. "Don't thank me yet. This is going to be a mess, but I'll stand by you."
Later that evening, under the cover of darkness, Julius, Rem, and Ram prepared to leave the mansion. Ram had taken care to ensure that no staff or villagers saw them leave, reinforcing the illusion of a kidnapping.
As they boarded the carriage, Ram glared at Julius. "Remember, Julius. If you fail to protect my sister, you'll have me to answer to."
Julius nodded solemnly. "You have my word, Ram."
The Day of the Plan
Julius approached the Roswaal mansion with cautious optimism. Everything was in place—Emilia had successfully taken Subaru away on the diplomatic mission, and the arrangements for Rem's stay in Kararagi were complete. All he needed was to discreetly escort Rem out of the mansion without attracting attention.
As he entered the mansion, however, the sound of hurried footsteps caught his ear. Before he could react, Ram appeared at the end of the hallway, her crimson eyes blazing with fury. She marched toward him, her expression cold and unrelenting.
"Julius Juukulius," she said, her voice like a blade slicing through the air. "You have some explaining to do."
Julius swallowed hard but maintained his composure. "Ram. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
Ram narrowed her eyes. "Cut the pleasantries. Rem told me everything."
Julius froze. "Everything?"
"Yes. About your... indiscretion. About the child. About your ridiculous plan to 'kidnap' her and take her to Kararagi." Ram's voice grew louder with each word. "You think you can make decisions for my sister without my involvement? Think again."
Julius sighed, realizing there was no point in denying it. "Ram, I assure you, my intentions are honorable. I will take full responsibility for my actions and ensure that both Rem and the child are safe."
Ram crossed her arms. "Oh, you will take responsibility, all right. But don't think for a second that I trust you to do it alone. Come with me—Rem is waiting for us in her room. We're going to discuss this properly."
When Julius entered the room, he saw Rem sitting on the edge of her bed, her hands folded in her lap. Her face was pale, and her eyes were downcast. Ram stood beside her, her hand resting protectively on her sister's shoulder.
"Julius-sama," Rem said softly, looking up at him with teary eyes.
"Rem," Julius replied, his voice gentle. "I didn't expect you to involve Ram in this."
"She's my sister," Rem said, her voice trembling. "I couldn't hide it from her. I was scared, Julius-sama. I didn't know what else to do."
Ram stepped forward, her gaze sharp. "Rem is my family, and I won't stand by while you whisk her away without a proper plan. If you think you can make her face this alone, you're mistaken."
"That was never my intention," Julius said firmly. "I've arranged everything to ensure her safety and comfort. She will stay in my estate in Kararagi, away from prying eyes, until the child is born."
"And then what?" Ram demanded. "You expect her to just return here as if nothing happened? Do you think Subaru will forgive her—or you?"
Julius looked away, guilt flashing across his face. "I know Subaru will be hurt, but this is the best solution for everyone. Rem deserves a chance to protect the life she's carrying without unnecessary conflict."
Rem finally spoke up, her voice barely above a whisper. "Ram-nee-sama, I... I made a mistake, but Julius-sama has promised to take care of me and the child. I just want to keep Subaru-kun from getting hurt."
Ram sighed, her anger softening slightly as she looked at her sister. "Rem, you've always been too kind for your own good. But if you're going to do this, then I'm going with you."
Julius blinked in surprise. "You're coming with us?"
"Of course," Ram said sharply. "I'm not letting my sister face this alone, and I don't trust you to handle it without making things worse. Besides, Subaru will need to believe the kidnapping story, and I can help make it convincing."
Rem looked at her sister with wide eyes. "Ram-nee-sama... thank you."
Ram patted her shoulder. "Don't thank me yet. This is going to be a mess, but I'll stand by you."
Later that evening, under the cover of darkness, Julius, Rem, and Ram prepared to leave the mansion. Ram had taken care to ensure that no staff or villagers saw them leave, reinforcing the illusion of a kidnapping.
As they boarded the carriage, Ram glared at Julius. "Remember, Julius. If you fail to protect my sister, you'll have me to answer to."
Julius nodded solemnly. "You have my word, Ram."
Julius sat stiffly across from Ram as the carriage rumbled through the night. Rem sat between them, her hands trembling in her lap. The weight of the situation hung over all three of them, but Julius had made up his mind—he wasn't going to run away from this.
"I made a promise," Julius said, his voice steady. "I will make sure Rem is safe. And once the child is born, I will take responsibility. I won't abandon my own child."
Ram scoffed, arms crossed. "Oh? The 'honorable' Julius Juukulius wants to play the noble father now? How touching." Her voice dripped with sarcasm, but her sharp gaze stayed fixed on him. "You do realize this is all your fault, don't you? If you hadn't convinced Reinhard to drink that night, none of this would have happened."
Julius clenched his jaw but didn't deny it. "I know. And I regret it. But regret won't change what's already happened. What matters now is doing what's best for Rem and the child."
Ram exhaled sharply, glancing at her sister. Rem had barely spoken, her blue eyes staring down at her hands as she gripped the fabric of her dress.
"Rem," Ram said, her tone softening slightly. "Do you even know what you want?"
Rem swallowed hard before speaking. "I don't want to lose Subaru..." Her voice was barely a whisper. "But I also... I don't want to abandon my child."
Ram's expression hardened. "Then we need a plan—one that keeps both Subaru and the baby in your life." She turned back to Julius, her sharp eyes narrowing. "You said you'll take responsibility? Fine. Here's what's going to happen. After the baby is born, Rem will return to the mansion. The official story will be that she was kidnapped by the Witch Cult and escaped after several months."
Julius listened carefully, nodding. "And what about the child?"
Ram smirked slightly, though it didn't reach her eyes. "A month after Rem returns, we'll arrange for a woman to 'abandon' the child near the mansion. If people see it as a nameless orphan left behind, they won't suspect anything. That way, Rem can still be in the child's life, and Subaru won't have to know the truth."
Rem gasped. "Ram-nee-sama, you would do that for me?"
Ram sighed, rolling her eyes. "I'm not doing this for him." She shot Julius a glare. "I'm doing this for you. Because you're my sister, and no matter how much of an idiot you are, I still love you."
Julius exhaled, rubbing the back of his neck. "It's not a perfect plan... but it's better than the alternative."
Ram smirked. "Of course it is. I came up with it."
Rem still looked uncertain, but there was a flicker of hope in her eyes. The road ahead wouldn't be easy, but for the first time since she learned the truth, she didn't feel completely alone.
And as the carriage carried them toward their uncertain future, Julius made a silent vow—no matter what happened, he would protect his child.
The carriage rocked gently as it continued down the road, but the air inside was anything but calm. Ram sat with her arms crossed, her piercing gaze fixed on Rem, who was avoiding her sister's eyes. Julius, seated beside them, stayed silent, sensing the storm that was about to break.
Ram took a slow breath, her expression unreadable. "So... you're telling me that while Julius was with you, Reinhard was with Emilia?"
Rem hesitated, gripping the fabric of her dress tightly. "...Yes."
For a moment, Ram didn't react. Her face remained perfectly still, her lips barely parting as she processed the information. Then, in a voice so calm it sent chills down Julius's spine, she whispered, "If Subaru finds out... he'll go mad."
Julius nodded solemnly. "That's exactly why he can't find out."
Ram clenched her fists, her knuckles turning white. "Two of his so-called friends were with the two women he loves—on his birthday, no less. If he ever learns the truth, it won't just be anger. It'll destroy him."
Rem was trembling now, tears forming in her eyes. "I know... I know it was a mistake... but it happened. I can't change that. All I can do now is protect Subaru from the truth."
Ram exhaled sharply, closing her eyes for a moment. "Fine. That means we have even more reason to make sure this plan works."
She turned back to Julius, her tone sharp and commanding. "After we return to the mansion, I'll speak to Roswaal. I'll get the magic stones I need to maintain my mana flow and survive outside the mansion for long periods of time. Once I have them, I'm going with you and Rem to Kararagi."
Julius frowned. "You're sure? Staying behind would make it easier to cover for Rem's absence."
Ram smirked, though there was no amusement in it. "I trust you even less than I trust Roswaal. My sister is carrying a child, and I'm not leaving her alone with a man I don't fully trust."
Julius sighed. "Fair enough."
Ram then added, "But before I go, I need to hear the truth from Emilia herself."
Rem visibly tensed. "Nee-sama, please—"
"No." Ram's voice was firm. "I need to know why she agreed to this plan. Why would Emilia help cover for you and Julius unless she had something to hide herself?"
Julius shifted uncomfortably, realizing that Ram had already put the pieces together. He exchanged a glance with Rem, silently asking if she wanted to lie or tell the truth.
Under her sister's intense gaze, Rem broke. "...Because she feels guilty. She knows she betrayed Subaru, just like I did."
Ram's expression darkened, and she pressed her fingertips against her forehead as if trying to push away a headache. "Unbelievable."
A long silence followed. The tension in the carriage was thick, heavy with unspoken thoughts. Finally, Ram sighed and leaned back.
"If we want to keep this from Subaru, we'll need to be careful," she muttered. "One wrong move, one slip of the tongue, and everything falls apart."
Julius nodded. "Then we move forward carefully. We stick to the plan, and we protect Subaru from the truth—no matter what."
As the carriage continued down the road, the three of them sat in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. The path ahead was uncertain, but one thing was clear: there was no turning back now.
As the carriage continued its journey, Ram crossed her arms, still glaring at Julius with suspicion. "Tell me about this mansion of yours. If Rem and I are going to be staying there, I need to know what kind of place it is."
Julius sighed. He could tell that Ram barely tolerated him, but at least she was willing to listen. "It's a small mansion, nothing extravagant. Anastasia gave it to me, so it's not from my family estate."
Ram raised an eyebrow. "So it's not your property?"
"It is mine now," Julius corrected, glancing out the window. "But it was a gift. Anastasia had no use for it, and I needed a place to stay when I wasn't traveling. It's in a good location, near one of her grape farms, so it has a nice view of the vineyards."
Ram hummed in thought. "How many people work there?"
Julius shrugged. "For now, I only hire temporary staff to clean it when I'm away. But since Rem will be living there, I decided to hire a full-time maid to help maintain the place."
Ram immediately shook her head. "A maid is a bad idea. Too many people knowing where Rem is increases the risk of someone talking."
Rem, who had been quiet, finally spoke up. "But, Nee-sama, a single mansion is a lot to take care of. If it's just you and me, won't it be overwhelming?"
Ram narrowed her eyes, as if she didn't want to admit that her sister had a point. "I can handle it."
Julius, sensing the conflict, leaned forward. "I already considered this issue, which is why I chose someone... special." He smirked slightly. "I hired a ninja."
Ram blinked. "A what?"
"A ninja girl," Julius repeated, amused by Ram's skeptical expression. "She's a skilled assassin who has worked undercover as a maid before. She's trained to blend in, observe, and, most importantly, protect. If anyone tries to find Rem, they'll have to get past her first."
Ram still looked doubtful. "And she can be trusted?"
"I'm paying her very well," Julius assured her. "She's more than capable, and she understands how important secrecy is. She won't talk."
Rem tilted her head. "A maid who is also an assassin... that sounds a little scary."
Julius chuckled. "It's better than having a normal maid who might gossip. And besides, you'll be safer this way."
Ram was still skeptical but didn't argue further. Instead, she asked, "What about the mansion itself? How big is it?"
Julius thought for a moment. "It has two floors. There's a kitchen, a dining room, a salon, two bathrooms, four bedrooms, an office, a small library, and a pantry. It's not enormous, but it's comfortable. There's also a garden."
Ram considered this information carefully. "It'll do," she finally said. "As long as it keeps Rem hidden and safe."
Julius nodded. "I've already sent people to prepare it. By the time we arrive, everything should be ready."
Ram leaned back in her seat, still not entirely happy with the situation but accepting it for now. Rem, meanwhile, looked out the window, her hands resting on her stomach. She knew her life was about to change completely, but at least she had people willing to protect her—even if the situation was far from ideal.
As the carriage rolled into the first city on their journey, Ram crossed her arms and turned to Rem. "Listen, I need to head back to Roswaal's mansion now. I'll return as soon as possible, but I have to handle the rest of the preparations. Since we traveled for about three hours, by the time I return, it will be six hours since your 'disappearance.' That should make the kidnapping story seem realistic."
Rem, sitting beside Julius, hesitated before nodding. "Nee-sama... are you sure about this?"
Ram exhaled sharply. "No, I'm not sure about anything. But what choice do we have?" Her crimson eyes sharpened as she looked between her sister and Julius. "This plan is risky, but it's the only way to keep you safe."
Julius, sensing Ram's impatience, spoke up. "I'll make sure Rem is taken care of. You have my word."
Ram scoffed. "Your word means nothing to me, Julius. But my sister's safety does." She turned back to Rem, her expression softening just slightly. "Stay out of sight and do not leave the mansion, no matter what."
Rem lowered her head. "I understand..."
Ram straightened her posture and adjusted her clothes. "I'll handle things on my end. Frederica might get suspicious, but I'll convince her. As for Roswaal, I'll tell him the Witch Cult is behind your disappearance. That should keep him from interfering."
Julius nodded in approval. "That should buy us enough time."
Ram turned to leave, then hesitated for a brief moment. Without looking back, she said, "Take care of yourself, Rem."
Rem smiled faintly. "You too, Nee-sama."
Without another word, Ram stepped out of the carriage and headed toward the next available transport back to Roswaal's mansion, leaving Julius and Rem to continue their journey alone.
As the carriage moved steadily down the road, Julius let out a slow breath and turned to Rem. "You don't need to worry. I'll be staying in the mansion with you," he reassured her. "I've already informed Anastasia that I'll be occupied with a personal duty. Of course, I'll have to travel to Lagunica occasionally to assist her, but I promise to return as quickly as I can. I won't leave you alone for long."
Rem nodded quietly, her hands resting on her lap. She still looked troubled, her fingers tightening slightly against the fabric of her dress.
Seeing this, Julius reached out, gently placing his hand over hers. "Rem," he said softly, his expression uncharacteristically serious. "I regret what happened that night. I regret what I did to you, to Subaru, and even to Emilia." His grip on her hand tightened slightly. "But in that one moment, I... I couldn't resist you."
Rem's cheeks flushed slightly, but she remained silent.
Julius continued, "I know I can't undo the past, but I can make sure that you and the child are taken care of. That's the least I can do." He hesitated for a moment before meeting her eyes again. "And there's something else we need to discuss—about the child's future."
Rem's eyes widened slightly, and she instinctively placed a hand on her stomach.
"I want to acknowledge the child as mine," Julius said firmly. "I want to raise them properly, as part of my family. If they carry my name, they'll have noble status in the future. They won't have to suffer or live in secrecy." He paused before adding, "But Ram insists that the child must return with you when this is over."
Rem looked down, visibly conflicted.
Julius leaned slightly closer. "So... I want to ask you, Rem. What do you want?"
Rem lowered her gaze, her hands trembling slightly as they rested over her stomach. Her blue hair framed her face, hiding the deep emotions flickering in her eyes. She took a shaky breath before speaking.
"I... I don't know," she admitted quietly. "I love Subaru. I want to be with him. But..." Her fingers clenched against the fabric of her dress. "This child... it's yours. No matter how much I wish things were different, that night happened. And now, I have to live with the consequences."
She looked up at Julius, her expression pained yet determined. "I don't want my child to suffer. If staying with you means they'll have a better future, I have to consider it. But I also don't want to abandon them." Her voice shook slightly, but she steadied herself. "I want to raise them, Julius. I have to. But I can't stay with you forever. My heart belongs to Subaru."
Julius listened silently, his expression unreadable. When she finished, he sighed and leaned back slightly. "I expected as much," he murmured. "You're loyal to Subaru, even now. But you also care about the child's future."
Rem nodded. "That's why I'm afraid. If Subaru finds out the truth, I don't know what will happen. I don't want to hurt him, but I also don't want to lie to him forever."
Julius ran a hand through his hair. "Then we'll have to be careful," he said. "You'll stay in my mansion until the child is born. After that, we'll decide what to do next. If you still want to return to Subaru, I won't stop you. But we'll make sure the child has a secure future, no matter what."
Rem swallowed hard. "And if Subaru finds out?"
Julius closed his eyes briefly. "Then we deal with it when the time comes."
Silence filled the carriage for a moment before Rem whispered, "Thank you, Julius."
Julius glanced at her, a soft but bittersweet smile forming on his lips. "No need to thank me. This is my responsibility, after all."
As the carriage rolled along the dirt road, Julius sat across from Rem, watching her closely. The quiet tension in the air was almost suffocating. Ram had already left to return to Roswaal's mansion, leaving them alone to discuss the uncertain future that lay ahead.
Julius exhaled and leaned forward slightly, resting his elbows on his knees. "Rem, there's one more thing we need to talk about," he said, his tone calm yet serious.
Rem, who had been staring out the window, turned to face him. She still looked exhausted, her blue eyes clouded with worry. "What is it?" she asked softly.
Julius hesitated for a moment before continuing. "Because I invoked the knight's law, I am legally responsible for both you and the child. That means ensuring your protection, your financial security, and your future." He took a deep breath. "The best way to guarantee that... is for us to marry."
Rem's entire body stiffened. "What?"
"I don't mean in the way you're thinking," Julius quickly clarified. "It would be a marriage in name only. It wouldn't change anything between us. But legally, it would ensure that you and the child have full protection under my name. It would also prevent any questions about the child's legitimacy."
Rem stared at him, her hands trembling slightly in her lap. The weight of his words sank into her chest like a stone. Marriage? She had never once imagined marrying anyone other than Subaru.
She bit her lip. "You're saying... this would just be for protection?"
Julius nodded. "Yes. Only the magistrates who handle noble records would even know about it. It won't affect your life. You can still do as you please, and when the time comes, we can dissolve it quietly."
Rem looked down, gripping the fabric of her dress tightly. Her heart ached. This wasn't what she wanted. She wanted Subaru, she wanted his love, she wanted a future with him. But... could she really afford to be selfish now?
She was carrying a child. A child who would be born into a complicated situation. What if people looked down on them? What if Subaru refused to accept them?
She swallowed hard. "Would this... really protect my baby?"
Julius's expression softened. "Yes. I would ensure that your child has a secure future. They would have my name, my resources, and any privileges that come with it. And if you ever need anything, I will provide it."
Rem closed her eyes, taking a deep breath. This wasn't what she wanted. But for the sake of her child, she had to be strong.
"...Alright," she whispered. Then, louder, "I accept."
Julius let out a quiet sigh, as if he had been expecting her answer. "Thank you, Rem. I promise, I will do everything I can to make sure you and the child are safe."
Rem nodded slowly, though her heart still felt heavy. She turned back toward the window, watching the distant mountains as the carriage rolled on. Her future had just taken an unexpected turn, and all she could do now was face it the best she could.
Ram arrived back at the mansion just as the sun was beginning to set. The trip had been long, and while she had spent most of the journey rehearsing how she would break the news to Roswaal, she knew it wouldn't matter—he would be furious no matter how she said it.
She wasted no time. Stepping inside, she ignored the usual greetings from the maids and marched straight toward Roswaal's office. When she reached the door, she took a deep breath and knocked once before entering.
Roswaal was seated at his desk, a satisfied smile on his face as he scrawled across a parchment. His mood was noticeably light—no doubt because of Emilia's absence. The negotiation with Vincent was crucial, and if things went well, it would be a major step forward in his plans.
Without looking up, Roswaal chuckled. "Oooh, Ram, back so soo—"
"I need to talk to you," Ram interrupted, her voice sharp and without room for argument.
Roswaal finally looked up, his mismatched eyes narrowing slightly as he took in her expression. "Oho? So serious. What could possibly be so important?"
Ram didn't waste time. "It's about Rem."
Roswaal's curiosity turned to genuine interest. He leaned forward slightly. "Go on."
Ram held his gaze. "Rem is pregnant."
The room fell into dead silence.
Roswaal's smile disappeared instantly. His fingers froze on the quill, his entire body stiffening. Slowly, he set the quill down and stared at her, as if waiting for her to take the words back.
When she didn't, his expression darkened. "What did you just say?"
Ram didn't waver. "Rem. Is. Pregnant."
The desk between them groaned under the sudden force of his hands slamming against it. The ink bottle tipped over, spilling across the papers, but Roswaal didn't care. His face twisted with fury.
"Who?" His voice was ice-cold.
Ram kept her expression neutral. "Julius."
Roswaal's eye twitched violently. His breathing grew heavier as his fists clenched. "Julius Juukulius?!" He practically spat the name. "The knight of Anastasia Hoshin?! That Julius?!"
"Yes."
A sharp crack filled the air—his fist had slammed against the desk so hard that the wood splintered. His body trembled with rage. "That IDIOT! That arrogant FOOL! That..." He stopped, his breaths ragged as he tried to compose himself, but the fury radiating from him was unmistakable.
"If Subaru finds out," he hissed, "everything falls apart."
Ram remained silent, waiting for his outburst to subside. She had expected this reaction. Roswaal was always calculating, always weaving his plans around Subaru's growth and loyalty to Emilia. If Subaru discovered that Rem—his most devoted follower—had betrayed him like this, there was no telling how he would react.
Roswaal took a deep breath, his hands still trembling as they gripped the edge of the desk. "Where is she now?"
Ram met his gaze. "Gone. I helped her escape."
Roswaal's head snapped up, eyes widening. "You what?!"
"She's with Julius now, somewhere safe."
Roswaal stared at her in disbelief before letting out a bitter laugh. "You... You actually helped her?! Do you understand what you've done, Ram?"
Ram's expression didn't change. "I protected my sister."
Roswaal gritted his teeth, barely restraining another outburst. He took another breath, trying to regain control of his thoughts. After a long pause, he finally spoke again, voice low and dangerous. "Does Subaru suspect anything?"
"No," Ram answered. "He left for Vollachia with Emilia. He won't be back for at least two months."
Roswaal's jaw tightened, his mind racing. There was still time. If they could craft a convincing enough lie, Subaru might never have to know. But before he could say anything, Ram spoke again.
"There's more."
Roswaal's gaze snapped to her.
Ram hesitated for the first time. She clenched her fists before exhaling slowly. "Rem told me something else before I left."
Roswaal narrowed his eyes. "What?"
Ram closed her eyes for a brief moment before meeting his gaze again.
"...The same night it happened, Reinhard slept with Emilia."
The world seemed to stop.
For the first time in years, Roswaal was truly speechless. He just... stared at her, his expression unreadable. Then, slowly, something terrifying flickered across his face—something darker than mere rage.
"...Say that again," he whispered.
Ram's stomach twisted, but she forced herself to repeat it. "Reinhard slept with Emilia."
A long silence followed.
Then, Roswaal laughed.
It was a cold, hollow laugh, filled with something Ram didn't like. He leaned back in his chair, running a hand through his hair, still chuckling.
"Oh, Subaru... you poor, poor fool." His voice was almost pitying. "Betrayed by the two women he loves most, by two of his so-called 'friends'... and on his own birthday, no less."
Ram remained silent.
Roswaal's laughter stopped abruptly. He looked at Ram, his expression eerily calm. "You realize what this means, don't you?"
Ram nodded. "If Subaru finds out, he'll lose his mind."
"Exactly." Roswaal's fingers tapped against the desk, his usual smirk returning—though this time, it was laced with something unsettling. "Which means... we must ensure he never does."
Ram clenched her fists. "Agreed."
Roswaal exhaled slowly, his mind already piecing together a plan. "Very well. We'll continue as if nothing happened. You will return to your duties. I will... handle the rest."
Ram didn't like the sound of that, but she had no choice but to trust him.
As she turned to leave.Roswaal spoke.
"Oh, and Ram?"
She stopped at the door, glancing back.
His smile widened. "Do make sure you keep an eye on Emilia when she returns. I have a feeling things will be... quite interesting from now on."
Ram paused at the doorway, gripping the handle tightly before turning back to Roswaal.
"I refuse."
Roswaal's smirk faltered for just a moment, but his eyes quickly narrowed. "Ooooh? And what exactly are you refusing, dear Ram?"
"I'm not staying here," she stated firmly. "I've already made my decision. I'm going to my sister. I only returned to inform you of the plan Rem and Julius came up with."
Roswaal's fingers tapped against the broken desk, his sharp nails clicking against the wood. "And what, pray tell, is this 'plan' of theirs?"
Ram crossed her arms. "Tomorrow morning, during breakfast, I'll act worried that Rem isn't in her room. I'll make a scene. I'll insist that my oni senses are telling me she's somewhere near Gusteko. Then, I'll leave the mansion, head to Kararagi, and stay with her at Julius' estate."
Roswaal studied her for a long moment before exhaling slowly. "And what do you expect me to do in the meantime?"
Ram's eyes darkened. "Make sure Subaru never looks in Kararagi."
A low chuckle escaped Roswaal's lips. "Ooooh, Ram, Ram, Ram... you truly are a wicked little thing when it comes to your dear sister."
Ram didn't react to the mockery. "Subaru can't know the truth. If he finds out, all of your plans will collapse."
Roswaal gave an exaggerated sigh, leaning back in his chair. "Yes, yes, I am aware of the consequences. Still, you must know that Subaru is no fool. He will search for Rem himself, and convincing him to look elsewhere will be quite a challenge."
"Then handle it," Ram snapped. "You're the one who needs him obedient. Find a way to keep him distracted."
Roswaal chuckled again, but there was something more sinister in his tone this time. "Oh, I will. But tell me, dear Ram... do you truly believe this will work? That keeping this from him is the right decision?"
Ram's hands clenched into fists. "It doesn't matter what I believe. This is the only choice we have."
Roswaal studied her carefully, then let out a slow sigh. "Very well. I will do my part. But you must know, Ram... once a secret is born, it only grows. And when it is finally revealed... well, I do hope you are prepared for the consequences."
Ram said nothing. She simply turned and walked out the door, her heart heavy with the weight of what was to come.
Ram turned on her heel, already halfway down the hall, when she realized she had forgotten something important. She gritted her teeth and spun back around, heading straight for Roswaal's office once more.
She pushed the door open without knocking, only to find Roswaal standing behind his desk, his hands gripping the edges so tightly that his knuckles were white. The broken pen from earlier was still on the desk, but now, ink had spread across the documents he had been working on, staining them beyond repair. His expression was a twisted mix of frustration and fury.
Ram raised an eyebrow. "You're still mad?"
Roswaal snapped his gaze to her, his mismatched eyes burning with a restrained rage. "Ooooh, my dear Ram, mad is far too small a word for what I am feeling right now. This is a disaster waiting to happen."
Ram didn't flinch. "That's exactly why I came back. I need a mana crystal from you. I'll need it to keep myself stable while I'm away."
Roswaal exhaled sharply through his nose, waving a dismissive hand. "Fine, fine, take whatever you need. But tell me, do you truly believe that you leaving with Rem will prevent further complications? That this won't spiral out of control?"
Ram crossed her arms. "It's the best course of action. If I stay by Rem's side, Julius won't get any ideas. The last thing we need is him seducing her again."
Roswaal let out a bitter chuckle. "Ohhh, how noble of you. And you think I should just sit here and wait for all of this to unfold?"
"That's right," Ram confirmed. "You only need to hold things together for five months. Emilia is making sure Subaru stays in the Empire for at least one or two months as a vacation, so after that, you just need to keep him occupied for the remaining time. Five months, Roswaal. You can manage that, can't you?"
Roswaal tapped his fingers against the desk, his expression unreadable. "Perhaps... But what of Emilia?"
Ram frowned. "What about her?"
Roswaal narrowed his eyes. "She is the only unpredictable factor in this plan. If—if—she decides to tell Subaru the truth, everything will collapse instantly."
Ram stiffened slightly. She had considered that possibility, but she didn't want to acknowledge it. Emilia had helped cover up Rem's disappearance, but could she really be trusted to keep the secret forever?
Roswaal leaned forward, his smile returning, but it was sharp, calculating. "Tell me, Ram... do you trust Emilia to keep this buried?"
Ram hesitated. Then, for the first time that night, a sliver of doubt crept into her mind.
Ram looked Roswaal straight in the eye, her voice steady and respectful as she spoke.
"Roswaal-sama, if I told you that it wouldn't be my problem if Emilia told Subaru the truth... would you be angry?"
Roswaal's expression darkened, but he didn't answer immediately. His fingers drummed rhythmically against the ink-stained desk as he considered her words.
Ram continued, unfazed. "Because the truth is, I won't be here. My sister will be in a safe place, and I'll be with her. If Subaru finds out, he will be the one going crazy, not me. He'll turn all his anger toward Emilia for cheating on him first. And after that?" She tilted her head slightly, her voice calm, almost detached. "He'll blame everyone left in the mansion."
Roswaal's fingers stopped tapping.
Ram could already picture it. Subaru's fury would be unlike anything they had seen before. He wasn't just some ordinary fool—he was a man who had been through hell and back, a man who had the ability to overturn fate itself. If he set his mind to vengeance, there was no telling what he could do.
"Beatrice will want to kill Emilia," Ram stated bluntly. "Subaru will go berserk, seeing everyone as his enemy. And knowing him, he won't just lash out—he'll start thinking, plotting. I don't even want to imagine what happens if he decides to seek revenge."
Roswaal's jaw tightened.
"That's why I'm going to stay hidden with Rem," Ram finished. "Just in case."
For a long moment, neither of them spoke. Then, Roswaal leaned back in his chair, exhaling through his nose. His expression was unreadable, but his voice was smooth, calculated.
"Ooooh, Ram... You always were the smart one."
Ram didn't respond. She didn't need to. The weight of their conversation lingered between them like a storm waiting to break.
Ram sighed. "The situation is far from perfect, Roswaal-sama. But it's the best option we have."
Roswaal studied her carefully, his mismatched eyes narrowing in thought. Then, after a long pause, he exhaled slowly and leaned forward.
"Very well," he said smoothly. "Pack my things. Discreetly. I'm going with you."
Ram blinked, momentarily surprised. "You're what?"
Roswaal smirked. "It would look suspicious if I let you go alone, wouldn't it? Especially after the fuss you'll be making in the morning about Rem's disappearance. If I personally lead the search, no one will question the situation. Meanwhile, I will also ensure that our dear Frederica manages the mansion in my absence."
Ram crossed her arms, processing his logic. It was true—Roswaal leaving with her would make the entire situation seem more credible. If he remained at the mansion, others might suspect something.
Roswaal continued, "I'll give specific orders to Frederica and Petra not to panic. I'll tell them I have everything under control, and I'll make sure they don't send any concerning letters to Subaru." He chuckled darkly. "It would be quite unfortunate if Subaru were to come rushing back ahead of schedule, wouldn't it?"
Ram gave a small nod. "Agreed."
Roswaal watched her for a moment longer before smiling. "Then it's settled. I'll prepare the necessary documents and send out false leads in case anyone else starts searching. But you, my dear Ram, should start packing."
Ram turned sharply and headed for the door, pausing only briefly. "Just don't slow me down, Roswaal-sama."
Roswaal merely chuckled as she left, his fingers tapping against the desk once more.
After Ram left, Roswaal leaned back in his chair, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the wooden surface. His mind raced through the possibilities.
This situation was far from ideal. If Subaru ever found out the truth, there was no doubt in Roswaal's mind that he would move heaven and earth to track Rem down. And with his power—his stubborn will—he just might succeed.
Roswaal exhaled, tilting his head. If that happened, it would be best if he wasn't there when Subaru came looking. Letting things unfold naturally would be too risky. Subaru wasn't stupid; if Roswaal simply disappeared, it would raise suspicion.
No, something more convincing is needed.
A smirk played at Roswaal's lips as an old plan resurfaced in his mind.
There was still one of his old bodies left. A spare, carefully maintained from the time of his teacher. It wasn't a perfect match for his current appearance, but with the right injuries, it would be close enough. If the need arose, he could stage his own death, leave behind that body as evidence, and slip away into a new host.
If Subaru was going to tear the world apart looking for Rem, it would be much easier to let him believe Roswaal was already dead.
Roswaal chuckled to himself, resting his chin on his hand.
"How dramatic," he murmured. "But... if it keeps things from unraveling too quickly, it may be necessary."
For now, he would continue with Ram's plan, but if Subaru got too close—if things threatened to spiral out of control—he would be ready to disappear.
With that decision made, Roswaal stood and moved to prepare. There was much to do, and not much time to do it.
At breakfast, the Roswaal Mansion was calm, with only Roswaal, Ram, Frederica, and Petra present. Emilia and the others had already left on their diplomatic trip, leaving the mansion quieter than usual.
Ram entered the dining room with a tense expression, her eyes scanning the room before settling on Frederica. "Where is Rem?" she asked, her tone sharp but controlled.
Frederica blinked, slightly surprised. "I don't know... Maybe she changed her mind last night and decided to leave with Lady Emilia at the last moment?"
Ram frowned slightly, crossing her arms. "That's possible... but she didn't say anything to me." She paused before adding, "I can still feel her, but it's strange. My synesthesia tells me she's toward Gusteko—not with Emilia's group."
Roswaal, seated at the head of the table, raised an eyebrow. "Ooooh? Now that is quite suspicious."
Ram exhaled, acting frustrated. "She didn't tell me she was going anywhere. If she left without informing anyone, that's not like her."
Roswaal rested his chin on his hand, feigning thoughtfulness. Then, as if something clicked, he snapped his fingers. "Aaaah, I believe I may know what's going on here."
Frederica and Petra turned toward him as he continued, his voice slow and deliberate. "I mentioned to Rem that I was negotiating for a magic crystal meant for Puck. Perhaps she misunderstood and thought I needed someone to go pick it up."
Frederica nodded slightly. "If that's the case, then maybe she left to retrieve it?"
Ram clicked her tongue. "She should have at least told me."
Roswaal waved a hand. "Well, no need to waste time on it, right? I'll go with you, Ram. We'll intercept her on the way and continue to Gusteko to actually purchase the crystal. Since Emilia is already making deals with one neighboring country, we may as well take the opportunity to build ties with another."
Frederica and Petra exchanged glances before Frederica said, "That makes sense. If Lady Rem is already on the way there, then picking her up and handling some business would be efficient."
Petra hesitated but nodded. "I hope she's okay."
Ram sighed, pretending to be irritated. "Fine. Let's not waste time, then."
With that, everything was set in motion. Ram and Roswaal would leave together, giving the appearance that they were simply looking for Rem and handling trade matters. Meanwhile, Frederica and Petra, unaware of the true plan, would remain behind.
As long as no one started asking too many questions, their story would hold.
As Ram prepared for departure, Roswaal oversaw the final arrangements, ensuring their cover story was airtight. He turned to Frederica with a composed smile, speaking in his usual slow, drawn-out manner.
"Fredericaaa, once we reach Gusteko, I'll be sure to wriiiite a letter to keep you updated. We'll probably be staying for some tiiime, so there's no need to worry about our return just yet."
Frederica, ever dutiful, nodded. "Understood, Lord Roswaal. Should I expect any specific instructions while you're away?"
Roswaal waved a hand dismissively. "Nnnoooothing too urgent. But if something of great importance arises, I have my Mentia Meteor with me." He tapped his temple for emphasis. "Sooo, if there's any emergency, you can call me directly."
Frederica accepted this with a nod, though she still seemed mildly concerned. "And the reason for your extended stay...?"
Roswaal's smile widened slightly as he gestured lazily. "Ooooh, simple, simple! Since we're already traveling, I thought I might take the ooopportunity to enjoy a little vacation. Gusteko's hot springs make for a looovely place to relax, wouldn't you agree?"
Petra, standing nearby, tilted her head. "You're taking a vacation, Lord Roswaal?" She found that surprising, considering how rarely he took time for himself.
Ram, playing along, exhaled as if she found the whole situation a hassle. "Yes, and I'll have to make sure he doesn't get too comfortable and slack off. That would be troublesome."
Roswaal let out a small chuckle, seemingly amused by her act.
Frederica, though still suspicious, had no reason to doubt them outright. A trip for business and relaxation made sense, especially given that the mansion was quieter with Emilia and the others away.
"Very well," she finally said. "I'll take care of things here in your absence."
Roswaal nodded, satisfied. "Eeeexcellent! Then, we shall be off."
With that, the final preparations were complete. Everything was set for their departure, and soon, Ram and Roswaal would leave the mansion—putting their plan fully into motion.
As they soared through the sky, Ram narrowed her eyes at Roswaal. "Why did you change your story back there? First, we were just going to pick up Rem, but now it's business and a vacation?"
Roswaal, ever composed, gave a small chuckle. "Ooooh, Ram, you underrrestimate the importance of a well-crafted alibi. If I simply left to 'retrieve Rem' and didn't return, it would raise suspicions. Buuut, if I establish that I plan to stay in Gusteko for business and relaxation, then noooobody will question why I'm not coming back immediately."
Ram crossed her arms, considering his words. "So you plan to actually stay there?"
Roswaal nodded. "I will drop you off at the mansion where Rem is staying, and then continue to Gusteko. I'll make my presence known, conduct a few negotiations, and send a letter back to Frederica as promised. That way, everyooone will assume I'm exactly where I said I would be."
Ram sighed, but she couldn't argue with the logic. "Fine. But if Subaru somehow manages to track us down, you're handling it."
Roswaal smirked. "Ohhh, but of course. Though, if everything goes as planned, he won't even think to look there in the first place."
Ram didn't respond immediately. She simply looked ahead, toward their destination. The plan was still risky, but at this point, there was no turning back.