A Random in Re:Zero

Loop 3 - Part 13

The royal palace was truly majestic, seen in person, both inside and out. I've lost count of all the times I marveled at the breathtaking views of this world.

"Now I understand how tourists feel... No, in my case I'm more like an illegal immigrant."

Unlike Subaru, I was able to convince Emilia to let me accompany her. This was possible because my record was supposedly clean, with no reckless acts in the half-elf's name or a worrying devotion to her.

I used all sorts of arguments, like needing to stay close to protect her and making sure there weren't any cult spies around. My avenger facade was quite persuasive, though it wasn't without its flaws. Eventually, I would have to tell the truth about my past, but there were only a handful of characters who would believe or accept that truth.

Roswaal didn't oppose my plan, which surprised me since he would normally be the first to contradict me just to annoy me.

So, we left Rem behind and headed off toward the castle. I didn't greet her as we left, as I was still embarrassed about what had happened between us.

As we entered the throne room, Emilia turned to me.

"Please be very careful. This place is very important and blah, blah, blah..."

I scratched my ear, utterly ignoring Emilia's concerned sermon as I focused my attention on studying the surroundings. There were the knights, the officials, the elders in the background, and most importantly, the other royal candidates!

"Crusch and Anastasia look so cute... Damn, I wish there was a tutorial for the Lust Route."

Pushing my intrusive thoughts aside, I walked to the line of knights and formed up with them. Aldebaran was there. I didn't look at him, but I felt a subtle pressure from him. I shuddered slightly at the thought that he might attack me from behind.

"This guy is going to be a problem... Why is he being so hostile? Priscilla is alive, so there shouldn't be any problems with him for now."

The worst part was that I couldn't get rid of Aldebaran. Killing him would be pointless given his skill, though the same applies to me. But none of this was within my current capabilities, as I was still too weak to do anything against someone of his level.

At that moment, something clicked inside me. If we were both at a standstill, then I had no reason to fear him. Aldebaran wouldn't be foolish enough to try anything, not without careful preparation. Besides, as long as Priscilla was alive, he'd think of nothing but protecting her.

RIGHT?

I just hoped he didn't consider me a threat to his princess. In the end, my annoyance at his threatening attitude was stronger than my fear of him. Turning around, I glared at him with contempt and spoke in a harsh tone.

"Try to hide your emotions a little, it makes me uncomfortable to be watched so intensely."

"You..."

I could almost hear the grinding of his teeth as he clenched them in suppressed fury. The killing intent grew a little more noticeable, and the knights around us looked at us curiously.

"What's wrong with you?" I turned completely toward him. "If you have something to say to me, spit it out."

Aldebaran froze for a moment, as if doubting himself. However, a second later he came up to me face to face (or helmet to face) and began to say something.

"I don't care who or what you are, but you better not go near the princess. If you do, I'll—"

"Enough." Said a voice that was both gentle and authoritative. "I don't know what kind of business you two have, but this is neither the time nor the place."