A Random in Re:Zero

Loop 5 - Part 27

I jumped out of the vehicle and found myself at Karsten's mansion. I spotted a large number of carriages parked in rows. The townspeople were wandering around, all of whom came up to greet me upon seeing me. I received all sorts of praise, as the villagers were aware of my actions to protect them.

I accepted the displays of affection without hesitation, despite my introverted nature. I didn't feel uncomfortable with these people, who were being honest and grateful.

"Listen, I know the whole cult thing might give you the wrong idea about Emilia, but I want to ask you to be reasonable, because she..."

"We know, young man." Elder Milde interrupted my conversation. "It's not that girl's fault she was born with... an unfortunate appearance. At first, I had my reservations, like everyone else; but thanks to you, many of us have come to know her better, and that's changed our way of seeing her."

My worries were largely dispelled by Grandma's statement. I bowed my head in respect and gratitude. It seemed these new interactions had helped after all.

"Leandro, you're here!" The children came running to greet me. Although it used to bother me having to entertain them and pretend to like them like Subaru did, over time it became second nature.

"It's been a while, you rowdy brats." I ruffled their hair. "Did you cause a lot of trouble while I was gone?"

"Of course!" Exclaimed Lucas, who had been hanging around my neck.

"And you blamed the mabeasts?"

"Of course!" Dyne and Cain answered in unison.

"I see my teachings were helpful." I nodded with satisfaction and looked at Mild, the chubby, almost bald boy (what's your problem, Tappei?). "Did you make a nice flower crown for your mother?"

"Yeah, she liked it a lot!

"That's great; it seems you have a great talent for decorations." I praised sincerely, recalling my walk with Emilia in the flower field; I had so much fun that day.

Suddenly I was overcome with longing, a desire to see her silver hair and amethyst eyes, her soft but powerful voice that I could hear from a distance as if she were right next to me.

When I was with her, emotions like fear and sadness ceased to exist for a while. That damn artificial love was affecting me too much.

Just then, I noticed a presence in the distance. There was Emilia, chatting animatedly with Crusch. Behind them were Felix and Rem, also talking about something.

The group left the mansion and approached us. The children became a little agitated and began asking inappropriate questions.

"Leandro, did you betray Emilia to go with that green-haired lady?"

"Where did you get that idea?"

"You took so long to come back, and you were with her when you did!"

"Well, that's true, but you guys have a lot of imagination. I didn't change sides or anything like that."

"However, you can't deny that it's a tempting option, nya!" Felix stepped forward and joined the conversation. "Lady Crusch is the favorite to rule, and she wouldn't mind giving you a place in her faction."

"Hey! You can't steal it, cat girl!" Lucas stepped between Felix and me, pointing an accusing finger at him.

"What did you say-nya!? I'm not a girl, I'm a man!"

"What do you mean?! You dress and look like a girl!" Lucas hid behind me, suddenly frightened. "Do you have some strange illness or something?!"

A smile of evil delight formed on my lips. The kids matured so quickly that they were already insulting minorities. I'm so proud of them...