One day, some time after Shiro became a Demon Butler...
When I went out for a walk in the garden… Shiro and Bellen happened to be working on the garden at that moment.
Shiro:
…………Hey. This side is finished.
Bellen:
Huh, already? That was fast… What about trimming the parts that can't be seen from the outside? Did you finish pruning the branches in the higher areas too?
Shiro:
...Of course. There is no room for even the slightest imperfection in my work.
Bellen:
...It's true.It's become so beautifully maintained… I always hesitate over where to cut the branches… Shiro, you're really fast at your work.
Shiro:
Hmph… Pruning garden trees is far easier than sculpting. If you have a clear image of the beautiful finished form in your mind, there is no reason to hesitate.
Bellen:
Yeah, yeah. I suppose I just don't have the same sense of beauty that you do, Shiro.
You:
You're both doing great
Shiro:
………….
It's you.
Bellen:
Ah, Master. Are you out for a walk? That's nice, I'd like to join you if possible. But Shiro and I were asked by Ammon-kun to take care of the garden work right now.
Shiro:
……My work is already finished, though.
Bellen:
Huh? You're not going to help with my part?
Shiro:
Fool. Why should I have to take on your share of the work as well? We already decided the scope of each other's work beforehand. Fulfill your own responsibilities yourself.
You:
(So strict...)
Bellen:
Haha. When you put it that way, I can't really argue with you. But if you helped me… I could bake you some delicious maple waffles later, you know?
Shiro:
Maple waffles? Hmph… Do not think I am so cheap that I can be manipulated by sweet treats.
Bellen:
Hehe, that's a shame. In that case, Shiro, you and Master should go for a walk together. I’m sure Shiro would like to take a walk with Master as well.
Shiro:
……Do not decide that on your own. My actions are decided by me and me alone.
Bellen:
My apologies. So, what are you planning to do now, Shiro?
Shiro:
……………….
I feel like taking a walk. You come with me.
You:
Okay, I understand
Bellen:
Alright, off you go. Be careful, both of you.
Shiro:
Hmph…
Tap… tap… tap…
With Shiro, the two of us walked through the forest… without really talking about anything in particular.
Although Shiro remained silent… I could tell that from time to time, he would glance over at me, making sure that I did not stumble.
Shiro:
……Hey. Is that mansion always that noisy?
You:
You mean Devil's Palace?
Shiro:
……Yes, that is what I mean. Since it is a mansion where nearly twenty people live, I was prepared for a certain amount of noise, but… Simply by being in the mansion… someone or another will come and speak to me. And that is despite having no particular reason to do so.
You:
Everyone wants to become friends with you, Shiro
Shiro:
...Hmph. Even I understand that much. I know that's their way of showing consideration for me. But… it's not something I'm accustomed to. Even if I were to grow closer to someone… that is something that should happen naturally. There is no need to force or rush it. Without going against the natural order, simply entrusting myself to its flow… That is the way I live.
You:
Are you not very good at interacting with people?
Shiro:
...No. That is not the case. If anything, I find the people in the mansion rather likable. Though there are a few among them who are a bit too meddlesome. Even so… I have spent my life living in places close to nature. For me, that was simply the natural way to live… and it is where I feel most at ease. That is why, from time to time… I feel the urge to leave the bustle behind and immerse myself in nature. Hmm… When was the last time I performed the bathing ritual…
You:
A bathing ritual...?
Shiro:
It is the act of cleansing both the body and the soul in natural waters. This is something that cannot simply be done in a bath. Come to think of it… You should know this area better than I do. Anywhere will do. Is there a place nearby, like a stream with clear, beautiful flowing water?
You:
Beautiful water…
I’m not sure if it will meet Shiro’s expectations… but I believe there should be a small stream with clean water somewhere in the forest.
I told Shiro exactly that.
Shiro:
I see… Then if we go to that stream, it seems I should be able to perform the bathing ritual.
You:
Are you thinking of going there now?
Shiro:
...No. I am not in the mood for it today. After talking with you… my spirits have lifted quite a bit.
You:
Really?
Shiro:
Yes. If that were not the case, would I have invited you to take a walk with me? I said that I do not like noisy places… but I never said that I dislike people.
...If anything, humans are also a part of the great nature. At times, they can show the beautiful radiance of life. I… like people who live in a beautiful way.
You:
I-I see…
The word “like” suddenly came from Shiro’s mouth… Even though he was not saying it to me, my heart skipped a beat for a moment.
Not wanting Shiro to notice the flustered feeling… I ended up falling silent.
Shiro:
……Hmm. A beautiful human, huh… If possible, with such a person… I would like to entrust myself to the flow of nature together with them…
Chapter 2
The following day…
When I stepped out into the beautifully maintained garden for a walk…
Bellen was looking toward the forest, shrugging his shoulders with a troubled expression.
Bellen:
Sigh... Good grief. This is a problem.
You:
Bellen, what's wrong?
Bellen:
Ah, Master. Have you seen Shiro?
You:
I haven't…
Bellen:
I see... He got away again. I wonder where he went today. Maybe he went into the forest to sketch again? But his art supplies were still there... so if that's the case, maybe he just went for a walk in the woods…
You:
It sounds like he disappears pretty often
Bellen:
Haha... Yeah, he does. He's the kind of guy who's freedom itself wrapped in clothes. That being said, he always completes the work he’s entrusted with as scheduled… and his work is both careful and efficient, so I can’t really complain. But still… You never know when an angel might appear, or when an urgent request might come in… I wish he would at least tell us where he is… But even when we ask, he never tells us. He probably thinks that if he tells me, I'll follow him.
...Well, he's half right.
You:
Should I try looking for him too?
Bellen:
Hehe, thank you. But it’s not enough of a reason to trouble Master by having you search for him. He’ll come back properly when it’s time for a meal. I’ll ask him again then to tell me where he’s been.
...No. Rather than trying to change his behavior… it might be faster if I change my own. Yes, yes, that’s the way. From now on, I’ll observe Shiro more carefully… I’ll understand him well enough that I’ll know where he is without even having to ask. Since we’re butlers who share a room, I should at least be able to do that much.
You:
(Can he really do that...?)
Tap… tap… tap…
Lato:
Oh, Master. Hello, Bellen-san. Are the two of you out for a walk as well?
You:
Ah, Lato…
Bellen:
Hello, Lato-kun. No, I was looking for Shiro. That reminds me. Lato-kun, did you happen to see Shiro today?
Lato:
Shiro-san? If you mean him, just a little while ago… No... I'm sorry. I can't tell you, Bellen-san.
Bellen:
Huh… Why?
Lato:
Shiro-san told me, "Don't tell Bellen." A good butler knows how to keep a secret, doesn't he?
Bellen:
I see... That’s a fair point. As expected of Lato-kun, you really are an excellent butler. But… I think a good butler wouldn't keep secrets from Master. Isn't that right, Master?
You:
...Lato, where is Shiro?
Lato:
Understood. If Master wishes to know, then I suppose I can't refuse to tell you. If you're looking for Shiro-san, I saw him near the stream in the forest. I think he's probably still there. However… This stays between us, so don't tell Bellen-san
Bellen:
Hehe, thank you, Lato-kun. Then if anything happens, I can just go call him at the stream. I won't go there, so don't worry. I'll also keep it a secret that I heard this from you, Lato-kun.
Lato:
Kufufu… Thank you, Bellen-san. Well then, Master, I shall be going now…
You:
Thank you, Lato
After parting ways with Bellen and the others there...
Concerned about how Shiro was doing, I decided to go to the forest where he was.
As I made my way through the forest, eventually the gentle murmur of a stream could be heard.
The crystal clear water flowed as a pristine stream, while deep green trees stood lined along its banks.
As I was admiring the beautiful scenery… a tailcoat jacket hanging from a tree immediately caught my eye as a rather unusual sight.
You:
Th-that is…
As soon as I realized that it was Shiro’s tailcoat… I sensed the presence of someone coming from the direction of the river…
Trying not to see something that should not be seen… I cautiously turned my gaze toward the river…
Shiro:
…………….
You:
……………
There, lying in the river… was Shiro, quietly breathing with his eyes closed.
Overwhelmed by his almost divine appearance, I involuntarily held my breath.
You:
(Beautiful……)
Shiro:
…………….
………Hey. What are you standing there for?
You:
Huh...!
Not expecting him to have noticed me at all… I was startled and instinctively hid in a nearby bush.
Shiro:
...Good grief. What are you doing...? Why is there any need to hide?
...Enough of that, come here.
You:
W-What are you doing...?
Shiro:
Can't you tell just by looking? It’s a bath. In our homeland, water is considered sacred… By cleansing ourselves in this way, we wash away the impurities of the mundane world and take the power of nature into our bodies.
...Wait a moment. I'll be finished soon.
……………….That's right… You should come here too.
You:
Huh...?
Shiro:
Come beside me. Immerse yourself in the water, and let us cleanse ourselves together. Do not worry. This is a purification ritual, so there is no need to remove your clothes. I have a towel for drying yourself, and if you need a change of clothes, I will lend you my coat. Come, over here.
You:
U-um…
Although Shiro’s sudden offer left me a little confused…
Overcome by the urge to see Shiro’s divinely beautiful appearance from even closer…
I stepped into the river, allowing myself to be guided by him…
Shiro:
...How is it? It is a little cold, but… The water is clean and pleasant, is it not? Good... Then sit here. Slowly… Lie your body down, feeling as though you are becoming one with the flow of the water. Close your eyes. And open your heart. Listen closely... to the voice with which nature calls out to you. Can you feel the flow of the river passing along your back? Right now, you are... becoming one with nature. From the moment a person cries out at birth, they are cleansed by water… and they live while receiving the blessings of nature upon their back. No human is an exception. The only difference is whether they are aware of it or not…
Shiro:
The warmth radiating from our bodies… is carried away somewhere far through the water of the river. And that warmth... will eventually become the flame of life for another being. We are nothing more than a part of that great flow…
..Do you understand? The fragility of our lives. They are brief and insignificant... and that is precisely why they are beautiful.
……………
The voice of Shiro, who had been whispering softly while lying beside me… suddenly fell silent.
Concerned about Shiro… I gently opened my closed eyes and looked over at Shiro beside me…
My gaze met Shiro's, who was staring intently at me.
You:
Shiro...?
Shiro:
…………….
You are... beautiful…
You:
Huh...?!
At Shiro’s words, I instinctively looked away.
With Shiro saying nothing more… and I not knowing how to respond, the silence continued for several seconds, then…
When I glanced at Shiro again… he was looking up at the sky, his eyes quietly closed.
You:
(...His profile really is beautiful...)
Shiro:
…………….
Suppressing the urge to become entranced by Shiro’s profile… I also looked up like him and gently closed my eyes.
Rather than simply admiring Shiro now… I wanted to experience the same sensation he felt and understand him more deeply.
Feeling Shiro’s presence beside me… I also experienced the same sensation as him, feeling it throughout my entire body.
Shiro:
…………….
...Hmph… As expected, being with you… feels comforting…
One day, some time after Shiro became a Demon Butler...
While the darkness of night still lingered… I suddenly woke up.
Unable to bring myself to go back to sleep… I walked over to the window… and simply gazed outside.
Then, outside the window… I saw Shiro holding a sword and heading toward the forest.
You:
I wonder what he is going there to do
Curious, I… decided to hurry and follow after Shiro.
[Nearby Forest]
Tap... tap... tap…
Shiro:
Hm? You…
You:
Shiro, good morning
Shiro:
………Why are you here?
You:
I saw Shiro, so I got curious
Shiro:
……….
Foolish curiosity will lead to your downfall. If you claim to be my Master… then refrain from acting on your emotions.
You:
S-sorry…
Shiro:
……….
I was merely giving you a warning. I am not angry. Do not cower needlessly… nor apologize needlessly.
You:
O-Okay, I understand
Shiro was harsh even from the morning… but judging by his calm expression, he truly did not seem to be angry.
I still did not fully understand him… this man who carried such an intimidating presence.
You:
What were you doing?
Shiro:
I have not done anything yet. I was about to begin training.
You:
But at this hour?
Shiro:
Yes. Usually, I do it a little later. Today, in particular… I felt like training alone. If I went any later than this…
...Bellen would wake up. Whenever he sees me… he persistently comes over saying things like, "Let's train together." I had no choice… so I woke up early today like this.
You:
I-I see…
"But if he can train alone at this hour… wouldn't it be better to just do this every day...?"
A question suddenly crossed my mind.
You:
Why don't you usually do that?
Shiro:
……Hm. That is a good question. There are certain times when the forest is dangerous. Nighttime, for example... when the surroundings are dark… Among them, there are also animals that become active in the early morning. To avoid them… I usually train after the sun has fully risen.
You:
I see
Shiro:
You... do not think of this as someone else’s problem.
...Though today, you have already come this far into the forest… From now on, even if curiosity gets the better of you… never enter the forest alone during dangerous hours. Understood?
You:
Y-Yeah
The time when the animals of the forest begin to stir and become active…
Hearing that… I suddenly felt a little frightened by the forest we were in.
Choices:
………
(Maybe it was a mistake to follow him...)
Shiro:
………
...Do not worry. I said, "Do not enter the forest alone." If you are with me, there is no problem.
Perhaps noticing that I had become frightened… Shiro said that in a calm voice.
You:
Thank you
Shiro:
Let us go. There is an open area a little further ahead. That is where I will train.
After saying that, Shiro turned his back and began walking.
I followed behind him as we walked.
- A few minutes later -
As we walked through the forest, Shiro, who had been silent, opened his mouth to speak.
Shiro:
Hey. Watch your step. There is a flower blooming in the middle of the path. Do not step on it.
You:
O-Okay
Just as Shiro said, there was a small flower blooming on the ground.
It was such a small flower that… if one were walking normally, they might have missed it without noticing.
Watching him from behind… I could tell that he was walking while paying attention to the ground and his surroundings.
You:
(Is he someone who values nature...?)
While I was thinking that… Shiro spoke again.
Shiro:
We have arrived. This is our destination.
...Hm. Then... I will begin my training here. It would be troublesome to escort you back to the mansion, after all. Stay close to me quietly.
You:
Okay
And so, I… decided to watch Shiro’s training.
- After a while -
Shiro’s training… was so beautiful that I found myself completely captivated by it.
Listening to the powerful sound of his sword swings… I lost track of time, watching his flawless movements.
Shiro:
……Phew. That should be enough. It has been a while since I was able to train with such focus.
You:
Good work
Shiro:
……Ah.
Shiro wiped away his sweat with a satisfied expression… then returned his sword to its sheath.
Shiro:
Now then... I have kept you waiting. It is about time we return to the mansion.
You:
Yeah
I nodded, feeling a little reluctant for the time spent with him to come to an end.
Then, at that moment… Suddenly, a loud noise came from the bushes near me.
Rustle rustle...
You:
W-What was that?!
Shiro:
Do not panic…
As Shiro said that… he stepped in front of the startled me, as if to shield me.
Shiro:
I told you there would be no problem if you stayed with me. Have you already forgotten?
You:
I-I remember... but…
Shiro:
Then do not make unnecessary noise. If we make a commotion, the other party will become more cautious.
...There is no need to worry. Stay there.
You:
Y-Yeah…
Rustle rustle...
Shiro:
………Unfortunate.
The moment Shiro muttered that… a huge bear emerged from the bushes.
Giant Bear:
Grrrrrr…
Choices:
A-A bear?!
S-So big...
Shiro:
...Listen. Do not move, understood?
You:
Yeah... I understand
Shiro:
……Hm, this one… It seems to be extremely hungry. It shows no sign of being intimidated by us.
The bear, upon seeing I and Shiro… approached while drooling.
Giant Bear:
Grrrrrr…
Choices:
...!!
(It... it's coming this way...!)
Overwhelmed by the bear’s sheer presence… I instinctively took a step back.
Chapter 2
Shiro:
Hey. I told you not to move.
You:
S-sorry…
Even as we spoke… the bear lumbered closer, its massive body swaying with each step.
Shiro:
Understand? Do not leave my side under any circumstances. If you run now… you will die. If you do not wish to die, do not move from where you are.
You:
...Okay
The bear looked ready to attack at any moment… its breathing heavy and ragged.
Shiro fixed his gaze on the bear… then quietly drew his sword.
Shiro:
...It must be hungry before hibernation. It is quite agitated.
……Leave now. If you do so… I have no intention of punishing you for trying to bare your fangs at us. However… if you come any closer than this… I will show no mercy.
The bear appeared to hesitate for a moment, but…
Shaking off that moment of hesitation, it let out a loud roar… and lunged straight at Shiro.
Giant Bear:
GRRROOOAAARRR!!!
You:
Shiro!!
Shiro:
...Have you lost your reason…
As Shiro muttered that… he swiftly swung his sword toward the bear.
Whoosh...!
……Thud
Following the sound of the sword… the noise of the bear’s massive body collapsing onto the ground echoed through the forest.
You:
What... just happened...?
Unable to comprehend what had happened in that instant… I stared blankly at Shiro, who was covered in the bear’s blood.
Shiro:
……Do not hold it against me. You misjudged when to retreat. Anyone who attacks my Master… I will show no mercy, no matter who they are.
Shiro approached the bear, which was no longer moving… and quietly closed his eyes.
Shiro:
...Your life was taken by my hand. This life… I will not let it be in vain.
After closing his eyes toward the bear for a while… Shiro turned around to face me.
His body... is still splattered with fresh blood.
Shiro:
...Are you injured?
You:
I'm okay…
Shiro:
I see… Then that is good.
You:
Are you hurt, Shiro?
Shiro:
By someone like that… there is no way I would be injured.
You:
I see…
Shiro had closed his eyes toward the bear earlier… What exactly was that, I wonder?
Curious, I decided to ask him directly.
You:
Were you closing your eyes just now…?
Shiro:
……That was a prayer.
You:
A prayer?
Shiro:
We, the People of the Valley… always offer a prayer after taking a life. And that life… is carried on by those who continue to live.
You:
What do you mean by carrying on a life…
Shiro:
Perhaps it is easier to understand if I simply say… we eat it. The only time we take a life is… When protecting one's companions, or when feeding upon that life to sustain one's own.
...Those are the only two instances. That is why I vowed to carry on the life of that bear… by making it our sustenance.
You:
I see…
Shiro:
Protecting our companions, using a life as sustenance… Taking a life for these reasons could be said to be an unavoidable part of living. But… like the Seiran family and angels… For reasons other than those… there are also those who toy with human lives and take them away without reason.
……There is no such thing as a life that is insignificant in this world. Those who take lives recklessly... without any feeling… I cannot forgive them.
You:
Shiro…
Shiro:
Of course, that applies not only to humans… Animals... birds... insects… All life is equal. There is no justification for needless killing.
You:
...You're right
Shiro:
...Perhaps I have spoken too much.
Come to think of it, ever since he entered the forest… he had been walking carefully, paying close attention to the ground and his surroundings.
Shiro:
Hey. Watch your step. There is a flower blooming in the middle of the path. Do not step on it.
At that time, he warned me not to step on the flowers, but...
He believes that even the lives of insects are important, so perhaps…
He may have been careful… so that he would not accidentally crush insects beneath his own feet.
You:
Shiro is so kind
Shiro:
……I merely do what I believe is right. Kindness… Do not simply impose your own values onto me.
You:
...Thank you for saving me
Shiro:
………Hmph.
Someone who cherishes all life… still took a life in order to save me.
Although I felt sorry about it… deep down, I couldn't help but feel a little... happy.
Shiro:
……My clothes have gotten dirty. Follow me. We will go wash the blood off.
You:
Yeah
Making sure not to be left behind by Shiro as he started walking… I hurriedly followed after him.
- A little while later -
Where Shiro had headed without hesitation… there was a gently flowing river.
Shiro:
Normally… I would never do something as improper as taking off my clothes in front of you, but… While I wash the blood off, I cannot leave you alone.
...For now, stay there.
You:
O-Okay
Seeing me nod… Shiro removed his outer garment right there.
His body, accentuated by its pale complexion… was beautiful, almost like a sculpture.
However, from his well-trained physique… more than its beauty, what came across was his strength.
Shiro:
………….
……Hey. What are you staring at so intently?
You:
Eh, um…
Unable to admit that I had been captivated by his body… I hurriedly looked away.
Shiro:
……Hmph. Very well.
...How long do you intend to stand there? Come closer.
You:
Huh?
Shiro:
Sit near me. If you do not wish to be attacked by another beast… like you were earlier.
Shiro said that… and began washing the blood off in the river.
With a slight fluttering feeling in my chest… I sat down beside him.
One day, some time after Shiro became a Demon Butler...
The sunset was beautiful, so I was taking a walk in the garden alone when…
Just then, Lono came out of the villa.
Lono:
Sigh... I got turned down again.
You:
Lono?
Lono:
Ah, master. Good evening.
You:
Good evening, did something happen?
Lono:
Um... actually… I just challenged Shiro-san to a mock battle, but… He turned me down without a second thought…
...This is the fifth time I’ve been turned down. That person just won’t accept my challenge at all…
You:
I see
Lono:
Shiro-san is a cool person, but… He’s a different type from Bastien, isn’t he? This might sound like a bad way to put it, but… It’s like he’s a little cold... or maybe indifferent… Hmm. I thought I was pretty confident when it came to communicating with the quiet type, though.
You:
Because you’re used to Bastien?
Lono:
Yes. But it's not going very well. For starters, I can't tell what Shiro-san is thinking at all. At this rate, that's not good. We're teammates now, so I need to communicate with him more…
You:
You're really mature, Lono
Lono:
It's not like I'm that mature. With people like him, you've got to be the one to take the lead.
You:
I'm rooting for you
Lono:
Thank you!
...Alright. If that's settled, then… Master, do you have some time now?
You:
I'm free, but…
Lono:
Great. Could you help me with something?
[On the Way to the Town Inside the Carriage]
- Several minutes later -
Shiro:
.........
You:
.........
Silence fills the inside of the carriage.
The three of us, me, Lono, and Shiro, had gone to Espoir to do some shopping.
It seemed to be Lono's plan to bring Shiro along… and somehow try to communicate with him.
However, since Lono was driving the carriage… I ended up alone with Shiro.
Shiro:
.........
Choices:
(...He's been staring out the window this whole time.)
(...What should I talk about...)
Overwhelmed by Shiro's unique atmosphere… I was struggling to find something to talk about.
Shiro:
Hey…
You:
Huh?
Shiro:
I've been feeling your gaze for a while now… Is there something you wish to talk to me about?
You:
Um, well…
Shiro:
…Are you troubled?
You:
N-no... that's not it…
Shiro:
I see. Well, it doesn't matter what it is. If you ever feel like talking, call out to me anytime. There is no need to hold back around me.
You:
Th-then…
Shiro:
.........
You:
What are we going to buy today?
Shiro:
I do not know. Are you not the one who knows?
You:
Lono hasn't told me anything
Shiro:
Then ask Lono once we arrive in town.
You:
Yes, I'll do that
Shiro:
.........
You:
.........
Shiro:
.........
You:
.........
Shiro:
.........
You:
(...The conversation isn't going anywhere)
When I'm with the other butlers, it never becomes this awkward.
Everyone makes an effort to keep the conversation going so that I don't get bored.
That’s exactly why… I still wasn’t used to handling Shiro’s overly cool demeanor.
Shiro:
...We’ll be arriving in town soon. Prepare yourself to get off.
You:
Y-yeah…
However, it doesn’t seem like he’s being quiet because he dislikes me…
You:
(It's hard to tell what he's thinking...)
- A few minutes later -
After arriving in town, the three of us headed to the market.
Apparently, we had come here to buy ingredients for the sweets served at the mansion.
Lono used Shiro’s favorite, “maple waffles,” as a conversation topic…
He tried his best to keep the conversation lively... but it ended in failure.
- Several hours later -
The sun had completely set… and the surroundings had grown dark.
Tap… tap… tap…
Shiro walked ahead… while I and Lono followed behind him.
Then, Lono approached me and began speaking into my ear.
Lono:
Master... that person is a tough opponent. There’s absolutely no opening at all.
You:
But he’s not a bad person, right?
Lono:
That’s really true. He does answer properly. And he responds to the questions I ask him. It’s just that he doesn’t engage in any more conversation than necessary. Shiro-san… He’s definitely missing out because of that, isn’t he? At this rate, it’s no wonder people would think he’s a cold person.
You:
Hmm…
Shiro:
Hey.
You:
!?
Shiro:
What have you been whispering about this whole time?
Lono:
I-it’s nothing at all! Come on, let’s hurry back to the carriage and return to the mansion… And... ah, oh no!
You:
Hm? What’s wrong?
Lono:
Sorry, Master! Could I go to the post office right over there for a moment? I was entrusted with some mail from Nac-san. I’ll be right back. Please wait just a little bit!
You:
Alright
Lono:
Shiro-san. I’m sure it’ll be fine, but please look after Master for me. I’ll be back soon… Until then, please take care of Master...
Shiro:
Go quickly. There is nothing to worry about.
Lono:
Th-then, I’m counting on you! Please take care of Master!!
Tap tap tap…
You:
He's gone
Shiro:
That Lono… He truly cares about you.
You:
Huh?
Shiro:
He was probably wondering whether it was really safe to leave you in my care.
You:
I wonder... maybe...?
Shiro:
There is no need to spare my feelings. You know it too, don't you?
Choices:
...Yeah
That's…
Shiro:
Don't make that face. I don't mind it at all. If I were in Lono's position… I would have said the same thing. Leaving someone as important as you… in the care of a companion he has only recently met would naturally make him uneasy.
You:
.........
Shiro:
That is why… Do not leave my side. It would be troublesome if anything happened to you.
You:
Yeah
Chapter 2
- A little while later -
I and Shiro were waiting for Lono to return.
He said he'd be back soon, but maybe he's being held up… He still hasn't come back.
Then, from behind me… The sound of a child running at full speed could be heard.
Tap tap tap!
Thud!
Choices:
Whoa...!
What...?
Boy:
S-sorry! I was in a hurry and wasn't looking where I was going… Are you okay?
You:
I'm fine. What about you?
Boy:
I-I’m fine. I’m really sorry...! Well then, I’m in a hurry, so...!
You:
Uh, ah, yeah…
Shiro:
………
Tap tap tap!
Grab...!
Boy:
Wah!!
Shiro:
You… Leave "that" behind.
Shiro said that while… grabbing the collar of the child who was running away, stopping the child's movement.
You:
S-Shiro!?
Shiro:
Hey, you. Hand it over quickly. You cannot fool my eyes.
Boy:
S-s-s-sorry! I’ll give it back! I’ll return it!!
Then the boy took a wallet out of his pocket.
That wallet was the one I usually used in this world… It was an important wallet that all the butlers had prepared for me.
Choices:
My wallet...!
I can't believe it was stolen...
Shiro:
What else did you steal...?
Boy:
T-there's nothing else...!
Shiro:
………
You:
It’s okay, it looks like nothing else was stolen
Boy:
P-please! Please spare my life! I won’t do it again! I swear I won’t ever do it again!
Tap tap tap…
Lono:
Hey, hey, Shiro-san! What are you doing?!
You:
Lono...!
Shiro:
This kid tried to steal the wallet. I merely caught him.
Boy:
Please...! Forgive me! Ugh…
Shiro:
Why are you crying? That trick won’t work on me.
Boy:
Ugh...... I’m sorry... I won’t do it again... hic... ugh…
Lono:
Shiro-san. Please let go of him for now. From an outsider’s perspective, it just looks like a Demon Butler is threatening a child. If someone sees us like this, it’ll be a problem.
Shiro:
Hmph…
Thud…
Boy:
Ugh...... ugh......
- A few minutes later -
I and Shiro explained what had happened to Lono.
Perhaps the boy was relieved after realizing there was no danger… He lowered his head and quietly reflected on what he had done.
Lono:
I see… So that's what happened.
Boy:
I'm sorry. I won't do it again. Please let me off this time.
Lono:
Master, what should we do? Personally, I’d like to let him go.
Choices:
...Yeah
The wallet has been returned…
Boy:
Thank you. Thank you so much...!
Shiro:
......If you have decided to let him go, then I am fine with that. However, I am not releasing you just yet.
Boy:
Eek...!
Shiro:
Kid, listen carefully. You were simply lucky. If it had been someone else… You would have no right to complain even if you were cut down here. Keep that in mind. Never do something foolish like that again. Understood?
Boy:
Y-yes…
Shiro:
I am not joking. I have seen many people like you who committed theft… and were mercilessly cut down.
......Let today be the last time. If you don’t want to die…
Boy:
I-I understand... I’ll never do it again.
Lono:
Come on, hurry up and go home.
Tap tap tap!
Lono:
Sigh… Shiro-san. You scared the kid a little too much. He was just a kid who wasn’t even ten years old yet. What you said wasn’t wrong, but… You could have been a little gentler with him…
Shiro:
...That kid has probably stolen many times before. Showing him kindness and letting him off with gentle words… would not be for his own good. If he cannot understand right from wrong… then I will make him understand. Being harshly scolded by me is nothing… It is far better than meeting a foolish death.
Saying that, Shiro began walking toward the carriage.
After seeing the compassion for others that existed within him… I felt a little warmth in my heart.
It was at that moment.
Woo woo
You:
The angel alarm...!?
Lono:
Master! Please look over there! An angel is descending!
You:
If we don’t hurry, the people in the town will…
Shiro:
Let us go.
You:
Huh?
I was grabbed by the hand by Shiro and ran in the direction where the angel was flying.
Dash…
Lono:
W-wait, Shiro-san! What about the luggage!
Lono’s shouting voice could be heard from behind.
It seemed that Lono had not expected Shiro to suddenly start running… and he appeared a little confused.
[Outskirts of Espoir]
Boy:
Eek... don't come any closer… S-someone... someone, help me...!!
Angel:
“………”
You:
That's the boy from earlier...!
Slash...!
Flap flap…
Angel:
“………”
Shiro:
So you dodged it…
Boy:
B-big brother...
Shiro:
You're in the way. Stay back.
Boy:
O-Okay...
Shiro:
Release my power.
You:
Understood
Angel:
"Die. For the sake of life."
Shiro:
Silence.
Shiro drew his sword and charged at the angel, striking at it.
With each swing of his sword, his beautiful white hair fluttered.
The silver sword he wielded shone divinely as it reflected the light of the moon.
Shining brightly...the demon that hunts angels…
The sight was truly mystical… Despite being in the middle of a battle, I found myself unable to look away.
Slash...!
Angel:
"Die... di-die... diiie..."
"………."
Shiro:
Is it over?
......You’re not injured, are you?
You:
I'm okay
Shiro:
You…
Boy:
I-I’m okay too…
Then the boy’s face turned red… and he tried to hide his pants with his clothes.
Seeing the ground where the boy was sitting, I understood what had happened.
Boy:
Ugh......
………
Shiro:
Wear this.
Boy:
Huh...?
Shiro:
You don’t need to worry anymore. So, don’t cry.
Saying that, Shiro draped his coat over the boy and placed his hand on the boy’s head.
His touch was incredibly gentle… filled with compassion.
[Devil's Palace Private Room]
After reuniting with Lono… and taking the boy home, I and the others returned to the mansion.
Lono said, "I’ll go report what happened today to the other butlers," and...
Shiro escorted me back to the room.
Shiro:
Fennesz should have prepared the bath. You should take a bath after you’ve rested for a little while.
You:
Thank you
Shiro:
Then, I will be leaving now.
You:
Ah, wait…
Shiro:
What is it?
You:
You were amazing
Shiro:
Me...?
You:
You're kind, Shiro
Shiro:
………
Get some rest early tonight.
Click…
Shiro’s footsteps faded away from the other side of the door.
His reaction as he left with only a few words… somehow seemed like he was trying to hide his embarrassment.
One day, some time after Bellen became a Demon Butler...
I had just finished an angel hunt with the first floor butlers… and returned to the mansion.
Lono:
Phew… We finally made it back. Man, I'm exhausted…
Berrien:
Today's angel was quite a formidable opponent, after all.
Bastien:
Master. Once we get back to your room, you should take a bath right away. You've probably worked up quite a sweat… And your clothes must be dirty from fighting in the forest as well.
You:
You all can go first
Bastien:
I appreciate the thought… But don't worry about us. Once you've finished your bath, we'll take ours.
Lono:
Well, guess it's time to get dinner ready… Master, look forward to tonight's dinner too!
You:
Even though you're all tired... don't overdo it
Lono:
Not at all! Making meals for you, Master, is what I live for. Hmm, what should I make for dinner today?
Berrien:
Once I've changed, I'll come help out as well.
Lono:
Thank you very much!
Tap… tap… tap…
Bellen:
Welcome back, Master. And to everyone else as well.
You:
I'm back, Bellen
Bellen:
It doesn't look like anyone's injured… Seems like everyone made it back safely.
Berrien:
Yes. Lono-kun and Bastien-kun were the stars of today's battle. It was a pretty formidable one, but… With Master's help, the three of us worked together… and somehow managed to bring it down.
Bellen:
The first floor butlers really do have exceptional teamwork. Shiro and I will have to do our best too. Oh, right, Master. Fennesz-kun finished preparing the bath a little while ago. If you're going to take a bath, you should go ahead.
You:
Thank you
Bellen:
Also, Hanamaru-kun, who looked like he had some free time, and I… went ahead and took care of the dinner prep. I figured Lono-kun and the others might be back late… so I peeled the vegetables and… It was only something simple, but… we went ahead and prepared the soup and the appetizers.
Lono:
Really!?
Bellen:
We looked at the ingredients that seemed like they'd be used for the main dish… and went ahead and decided on the soup and appetizers ourselves, but…
Lono:
Don't say you did it on your own! I'm really grateful! In that case, I'll come up with the seasoning for the main dish to match them!
Berrien:
Thank you, Bellen.
Bellen:
We're the butlers' support team, after all. Whenever you're in trouble, leave it to us. If you're thanking anyone, be sure to thank Hanamaru-kun too.
Berrien:
Yes, I'll go thank him later.
Bastien:
...You're really dependable.
Bellen:
Thanks for the compliment. Master, I hope you'll look forward to the dishes Hanamaru-kun and I made as well.
Choices:
Yeah, I'm looking forward to it
Got it
Lamli:
Ah, it's Master! Heeey, Master~~!
You:
Is that Lamli's voice...?
Lamli:
We're back!
You:
That outfit is…
Tap… tap… tap…
Nac:
We were summoned to the Grovanes family's main estate today… We, the third floor butlers, went to hear what they had to say.
You:
I see
Lucas:
To briefly explain what it was about… It seems that a certain noble was recently attacked by an angel… Regarding that matter, we were asked to explain... what exactly we, the butlers, were doing at the time.
You:
You mean that noble was erased…?
Lucas:
Yes, unfortunately… However, Master, there is no need for you to worry yourself over it. It is impossible to protect every single person. Things like this have happened many times before as well… Regarding that matter... the Grovanes family has also shown proper understanding. However, since a person was lost… it can't simply be dismissed with just saying, "It's unfortunate."
You:
I see…
Berrien:
We always end up forcing such unpleasant duties onto you… I’m sorry.
Lucas:
I don't think of it as an unpleasant duty at all. Thank you for your concern, Berrien.
Bellen:
...We hunt angels and protect the people… And if we fail to protect them… we're held accountable and expected to explain why. On top of that, the nobles force requests on us that have nothing to do with hunting angels. You all are truly amazing. You've managed to endure this for more than two thousand years.
Lucas:
That's true… I really do think we've done well to keep it up.
Bastien:
Hm? Nac-san, you're unusually quiet today.
Nac:
Oh, my apologies. That long meeting at the main estate has finally caught up with me…
Lamli:
Seriously, those nobles… They just kept making snide remarks and nitpicking the whole time. It was seriously stressful… There were a few times I almost talked back to them. Well, if I'd done that… I wouldn't be allowed to accompany Lucas-sama on these assignments anymore, so I held back.
Lucas:
Lamli-kun, you were a perfect 100 points today.
Bellen:
Everyone on the first floor and everyone on the third floor… You all look completely exhausted. I'll escort Master back to their room. Everyone, go get changed… and try to take it easy for a little while, okay?
Berrien:
That would be a big help. Then, Bellen, I'll leave Master in your care.
Lono:
Master, I'll see you again later!
You:
See you later
The butlers each said their farewells to me… then headed back into the mansion.
Bellen:
Come on, let's head back to your room too.
You:
Yeah
Tap… tap… tap…
As I walked, I found myself thinking about the butlers.
Even though they're all exhausted and have so much to deal with… they still devote themselves to me.
But I can't seem to do anything for them in return...
I felt a little down because of how powerless I was.
You:
Sigh…
Bellen:
Master, is something wrong? Is something bothering you? If you'd like, I'm here to listen.
You:
Actually…
Chapter 2
Bellen:
I see. So you feel sorry that you haven't been able to do anything for all the butlers, huh… Yeah… I really understand that feeling.
You:
Bellen too?
Bellen:
I feel that way every day too. Even though you awakened me from a long sleep of two thousand years… Compared to everyone else, I'm not particularly strong. My experience and my abilities... are inferior to theirs. And on top of that, you know? I don't even have any experience as a butler. I'm still studying manners… And it's not like I have any particular job I'm good at. Wouldn't you feel anxious too? I need to grow stronger quickly… "What is the meaning of my being here...?" or something like that.
You:
I feel the same…
Bellen:
I see… But I think Master definitely has a reason for being here. I can tell just by watching that you are the emotional support for all the butlers… The power to enter people's hearts that only Master has… You are properly fulfilling your role as the Master of the Demon Butlers… But I... still haven't been of any use. I can only remember fragments of my memories from two thousand years ago… If you take that away from me, what would be left? As a fighter and as a butler… There are plenty of people who could replace me.
You:
That's not true…
Bellen:
Sorry, I don't mean to be pessimistic. I'm able to keep looking forward, so don't worry.
......
...Sigh, this somehow reminds me of the past.
You:
The past...?
Bellen:
Ah, that's right. I just thought of something good. Heh, alright… Let's do that.
You:
What's that?
Bellen:
Master. Could you come to the playroom tonight after dinner? What we're going to do can be a surprise for later... so let's keep it that way.
You:
Okay
My question about Bellen's words, "It reminds me of the past," remained unanswered, but…
I decided not to ask any further. And after returning to my room… I took a bath and enjoyed another delicious dinner today.
[Hallway in front of the playroom]
After finishing dinner, I arrived in front of the playroom.
You:
I wonder what is going to happen now…
While I was thinking that… I heard the footsteps of several people coming from behind me, and I instinctively turned around.
Berrien:
Oh? Master?
Lucas:
Why are you here...?
Standing there were the butlers from the first and third floors. All six of them had gathered together.
You:
I was called here by Bellen…
Lono:
By Bellen-san? Just like us.
Lamli:
Belen-nii. I wonder what he needs us for. Could it be that he prepared something fun for us as a surprise?
Nac:
Well, I did think of that too...
Bastien:
Anyway, let's go inside and see.
You:
Yeah
Click...
When we entered the playroom… Bellen was standing behind the bar counter at the back.
Bellen:
You came, Master. Hm? Everyone is here too.
Berrien:
Bellen. What exactly are you going to...?
Bellen:
Alright, alright, everyone come over here.
As he said that… Bellen began preparing alcohol and fruit on the counter.
Bellen:
Master. Would you prefer non-alcoholic or alcoholic?
You:
Huh?
Bellen:
Tell me?
Choices:
Alcoholic
Non-alcoholic
Bellen:
Got it. As for everyone else… Except for Nac-kun, is alcohol okay?
Everyone nodded, each of them looking a little confused.
Then, with practiced hands… Bellen began making cocktails.
The pleasant sound of the shaker echoed through the room.
The drinks poured into the glasses… were illuminated by the candlelight placed on the counter…
They gave off an elegant and romantic atmosphere.
Lamli:
Beautiful…
Bellen:
It's not finished yet.
Bellen took a knife in his hand and skillfully began cutting the fruit.
He decorated the glasses with the intricately carved fruits...
Bellen offered the cocktail to me.
Bellen:
Here you go. It's a welcome drink.
You:
Ah, thank you
Bellen:
I'll make everyone's drinks too, so please wait a moment.
Lono:
Bellen-san. Could it be that today is...?
Bellen:
Let me take care of everyone tonight. Ah, that's right. I forgot something important. Master. Would it be alright if the butlers drink cocktails together too? Well, even without asking… I already know the answer.
You:
Of course
Bellen:
Thank you. Then, since I have your permission… I'll prepare everyone's drinks.
- After a while -
We all raised our glasses in a toast… and each of us drank the cocktails Bellen had made for us.
You:
Oh, it's delicious
Bellen:
I'm glad it suits your taste.
Lono:
Delicious!
Nac:
Not only does it taste wonderful… but the beauty of its appearance is also remarkable.
Bastien:
The intricate fruit carvings are amazing too...
Lamli:
Another one!
Nac:
You're too fast, Lamli.
Lucas:
I think I'll have one too.
Nac:
What! Even you, Lucas-san.
Bellen:
Then, please choose your favorite cocktail from this menu.
You:
You even prepared a menu?
Bellen:
Yeah. I made it on the spot.
The butlers looked over the menu and chatted happily with each other.
Berrien:
Bellen. Thank you for going through the trouble for us.
Bellen:
There's no need to apologize, right? I'm only doing this because I wanted to. Earlier this evening, I was listening to everyone talk. I just wanted everyone to feel a little better.
You:
Bellen…
Bellen:
Including Master, everyone is desperately fighting while putting their lives on the line… And you've all had to endure so many hurtful remarks from nobles... wearing down your hearts. I wanted to be of help to everyone like that. I want to do everything I can with all my strength. I thought that taking care of everyone's hearts might be one thing I can do.
Berrien:
So that's how it was. Thank you, Bellen.
Lono:
I wonder which one I should choose~.
Bastien:
This... cocktail with a name I've never seen before, what is it?
Berrien:
Hehe. Everyone looks so happy.
Bellen:
Berrien, you enjoy yourself too, okay?
Berrien:
Yes, of course.
Bellen:
Master, if there's any cocktail you'd like to try, don't hesitate to tell me. Let's make tonight the best night ever.
You:
………
Suddenly, the thought crosses my mind… "Is it really okay for me to just be the one enjoying myself like this?"
I am always being helped by all the butlers.
I owe them more than I could ever repay… I can never thank them enough.
I made a certain decision.
Bellen:
Hey. Master, is something wrong?
You:
Bellen…
Bellen:
Hm?
You:
Is there anything I can do to help too?
Berrien:
Huh? Master, what brought this on all of a sudden?
You:
I want to do what I can too
Bellen:
Master...
...! Does that mean...?
You:
Please, Bellen
Bellen:
Yeah, I understand. Then, come over here.
You:
Thank you
And then, I stepped behind the bar counter.
Lamli:
Huh? What, what? Why is Master over there?
Berrien:
Bellen. To think that the butlers would be the ones being served by Master…
Bellen:
Now, now, Berrien. Because this is what Master decided. Master wants to treat everyone and be the one to take care of them. They went as far as to say that, are you really going to refuse?
Berrien:
That is…
You:
I want everyone to enjoy today
Berrien:
Master…
Lucas:
A cocktail made by Master and Bellen-kun… There is nothing more luxurious than this. It would be a waste for us to enjoy it by ourselves. So, with that said… Why don't we go and call the other butlers too?
You:
Please, go ahead and call them
Nac:
This looks like it will become a delightful evening gathering.
Lono:
I'll go tell Haures and the others!
Bastien:
Then I'll go tell Miyaji-sensei and the others...
Lamli:
Then I'll go to Shiroshiro and Maru-chi's place~♪
Berrien:
Are you really sure this is alright?
You:
Let's make tonight the best night ever
Berrien:
...Yes.
Bellen:
Heh...
- A few hours later -
The evening gathering spent with the butlers of the mansion became the best memory.
Everyone was confused at first, but I think they ended up enjoying themselves to the fullest.
After the evening gathering came to an end… Bellen and I were cleaning up in the playroom.
Bellen:
Well… That should be everything cleaned up.
You:
Good work, Bellen
Bellen:
Same to you.
You:
Everyone had a good time, didn't they?
Bellen:
There's no doubt about that. Everyone had such bright smiles on their faces.
You:
I'm glad to hear that
Bellen:
Master, you're so kind.
You:
I was just following your lead, Bellen
Bellen:
It doesn't matter whose idea it was. The fact that you acted for everyone's sake is what makes you kind, Master.
You:
Then Bellen is even kinder
Bellen:
Thank you.
We smiled at each other. After everything that happened today, I feel like I was able to grow even closer with Bellen.
At that moment, I suddenly remembered something.
Bellen:
I'm able to keep looking forward, so don't worry.
......
...Sigh, this somehow reminds me of the past.
You:
The past...?
You:
……….
Bellen, can I ask you something?
Bellen:
Sure. Ask me anything.
I asked Bellen what he meant when he said, "It reminds me of the past."
Bellen:
Ah... back then… I was just remembering things from when I was a child.
You:
When you were a child?
Bellen:
Yeah. When Goetia was fighting against the angels… I always felt like I had to do something too. He took me in when I was an orphan… and raised me to become the person I am today… I had nothing but gratitude toward Goetia. That's why I wanted to be of help to Goetia, even if it was only a little. But there was no way a child like me could fight alongside him… So even though I was powerless… I was always thinking about whether there was something I could do.
...That's what I was remembering.
You:
So that's what it was
Bellen:
Somehow… It brings back so many memories.
You:
...Hey, Bellen
Bellen:
Hm?
You:
I want to have just one more drink
Bellen:
You're going to listen to my story?
You:
I want to know more about you, Bellen
Bellen:
I see. Heh, that's a nice thing to say. Sure. Wait here.
With that said, Bellen began making a cocktail.
In the quiet room, the pleasant sound of the shaker echoed.
Bellen:
Here you go. It's a cocktail called a Kir. Tonight, I found myself thinking again… "I'm glad I met Master." Not just about me… Tell me more about yourself too, Master. I want to know more about you too.
Y-Yes... I'm sorry. I just lost my footing. Sigh… I lost to Bellen again. Far from closing the gap… The difference between us keeps growing wider with each passing year.
Bellen:
Hehe. Berrien, you’re growing too. But with things like this, everyone has their own strengths and weaknesses. I also have the role of fighting against angels. Berrien, you don’t have to push yourself just to keep up with me.
Berrien:
That may be… true… But I… I feel guilty for leaving all the responsibility to you. If possible, I also… I wished I had enough strength to fight alongside Bellen against the angels…
Bellen:
…Just having those feelings is more than enough to help me. Because Berrien supports me, I’m able to keep fighting while only looking forward. Besides… have you noticed? Berrien, you’re not weak at all. I’d say you’re already stronger than most ordinary soldiers out there.
Berrien:
That’s because… Bellen, you’re such a good teacher. If you train with someone strong… your own skills will naturally improve as well.
Bellen:
Hehe. Then I’ll have to train you a lot more so you can become even stronger. Even if I’m no longer around… I want to make sure the techniques I’ve learned are passed down to future generations.
Berrien:
Bellen… please don’t say such ominous things. If you were to disappear, I…
Bellen:
Haha, sorry, sorry. Anyway… Berrien, I’m sure you can become even stronger.
Berrien:
…I truly hope that’s the case… But… if Bellen says that… I’ll believe those words. Bellen. May I request another sparring match with you?
Bellen:
Of course. That’s the spirit, Berrien.
…………….
………….
……….
Bellen:
…………….
…A dream… huh. Somehow, it feels so nostalgic… For me… It feels like it’s only been about two years since then… For Berrien… It must be a story from an unimaginably distant past… To feel the length of those years with my own body…
…Maybe it’s about time I tried……
Some time after Bellen became a Demon Butler…
As I was taking a walk in the garden… I heard lively voices coming from the direction of the backyard.
Curious about what was happening… I decided to go see what was going on in the direction the voices were coming from.
[Devil’s Palace Backyard]
Bellen:
…Alright then, Berrien. Are you ready?
Berrien:
Yes… of course, Bellen.
…I feel a little nervous. I never thought Bellen would be the one to ask me for a mock battle… I can't help but feel nervous. It's been a full two thousand years since I last had the honor of crossing blades with you.
Bellen:
Hehe. But our positions are completely different from back then. While I was asleep… Berrien continued training tirelessly all this time.
Bellen:
By now, Berrien’s abilities have far surpassed mine… So please, go easy on me today.
Berrien:
N-No, that's not true… Please don't overestimate me. But… It’s true that I’ve always wanted Bellen to see how much I’ve grown. I’ll fight with all my strength today… So please, take care of me.
Bellen:
Yes. Let’s be careful and make sure neither of us gets hurt.
…It seems that Bellen and Berrien are about to have a mock battle.
The butlers from the villa were also watching the scene with great interest.
Hanamaru:
Oh, Master. You came at just the right time.
You:
So Bellen's having a mock battle?
Teddy:
Yes, that’s right! Apparently, he’ll be sparring with Berrien-san for the first time in two thousand years!
Yuhan:
I’ve heard that Bellen-san was once far stronger than him, but… How much Berrien-san has managed to close that gap… It’s truly fascinating.
Hanamaru:
Heh heh heh… Now this is getting interesting. Now that we’ve got more spectators gathering… How about we put on a show? Come on, place your bets! Will Bellen win, or will Berrien take the victory? Teddy-chan, who are you betting on? This is your chance to make a fortune if your prediction is right!
Teddy:
Huh? Um… Let’s see, I… I’ll bet on “Hanamaru-san getting scolded by Yuhan-san for starting a gambling game in front of Master!”
Yuhan:
Heh… That’s a good prediction, Teddy-san. I’ll place my bet on the same outcome as well.
Hanamaru:
O-Oh, maybe I’ll bet on that side too… Well then, since everyone bet on the same outcome, this bet is cancelled…
You:
(Oh dear...)
Bellen:
Hehe. It seems even Master has come to watch our mock battle. In that case… neither of us can afford to lose, can we? Berrien.
Berrien:
Yes… that’s right, Bellen. As Master’s butler… I cannot afford to put on a shameful display. But Bellen… Before we fight, could you tell me just one thing? Why is it that now… you suddenly wanted to spar with me? Even though there are many other butlers who are stronger than me…
Bellen:
Hehe. That’s because, of course, I have the same reason as you do, Berrien. While I was asleep… I wanted to see for myself just how strong Berrien has become. Hehe. There are some things you can only gauge by actually crossing blades.
...Right?
Berrien:
…Yes. That may be true. To be honest… No matter how many years passed, I never managed to get over my discomfort with fighting… But this moment, standing opposite you once again… I feel like I’ve been waiting for it all this time.
Bellen:
…Hehe. Seeing that serious look in your eyes… It really makes me realize just how much stronger you've become. But… just like you, I can't let Master see me make a fool of myself. So I'll give you everything I've got… my very best. Alright… Here I come, Berrien!
Berrien:
Yes…!
Chapter 2
- A little while later -
Clang clang
Hanamaru:
Whoa… these two are really something. Neither of them has given an inch this whole time.
Yuhan:
Yes… To be honest, it's an even fiercer battle than I imagined. Especially Berrien-san… He seems to be moving much better than he does in his usual sparring matches…
Teddy:
That's true… During sparring matches, he always seemed to hold back out of consideration for his opponent, so it felt like he could never quite show his full strength… But today, Berrien-san… It feels like he's fighting so freely…
Hanamaru:
Hehe. Guess when it's against his big brother, he doesn't have to hold anything back, huh?
You:
I just hope neither of them gets hurt…
Yuhan:
No need to worry. The two of them know that well enough.
Teddy:
That's right. If anything, I think they're actually enjoying this moment!
Bellen:
Hah, Hah... You're impressive, Berrien. To dodge that last attack…
Berrien:
Hah... Hah... Hehe, that's your signature move, isn't it, Bellen? I've copied it so many times... I know those movements very well… Then… It's my turn to attack!
Bellen:
Yeah! Now let me see your techniques, Berrien!
Clang clang
Their mock battle continued for a long time after that…
By the time the winner was finally decided… The sun was already beginning to set.
- Several hours later -
I was alone with Bellen in the garden.
Bellen:
Mmm... Phew! Alright, that wraps up my post-sparring stretches. Man~, I lost fair and square. Berrien really has gotten strong. I wanted to show Master what I could do… But I guess I still couldn't beat the Berrien in his current state.
You:
But it was a close match, wasn't it?
Bellen:
Hehe… So that's how it looked to you, Master? But from the feel of actually fighting him… I came away feeling the gap between us even more than I did before the match. Thanks to that, I could truly feel just how much training Berrien has gone through all these years… I experienced it firsthand.
Earlier, after a long and hard fought mock battle… Bellen dropped the weapon he was holding, bringing the match to an end.
Since the spear Bellen is using now was only recently made… The difference in how familiar each of them was with their weapon may have been what decided the outcome.
That's what Berrien had said… But judging from Bellen's perspective, perhaps the gap between them went far beyond just familiarity with their weapons.
Bellen:
Hehe… Sorry, Master. I ended up disappointing you.
You:
Disappointing?
Bellen:
Well… from your point of view, I’m the promising ally who finally woke up after two thousand years, aren’t I? But then it turned out I’m not really all that impressive after all… I figured that must have been a bit of a letdown for you.
You:
That's not true at all
Bellen:
Hehe… Thank you. But it's alright. I'm not that discouraged about it. Of course, part of me is frustrated… But I'd say I'm just as happy, too. Back when I was fighting the angels… Everyone relied on me alone. I carried the future of humanity on my shoulders alone… Living under the crushing pressure that if I lost, everything would be over… But now, starting with Berrien… I’m surrounded by so many dependable comrades. I can truly have hope for the future… There's nothing more wonderful than that. Of course, I also… Want to become even more useful for the sake of the future.
You:
Bellen…
Bellen:
Alright…! Time to pull myself together and get back to training starting today!
You:
I'm rooting for you, Bellen
Bellen:
Hehe. Thank you, Master.
…It’s strange. When Master is by my side… The desire to keep trying just wells up from deep within me. It was the same during the mock battle… When I’m in front of Master, it’s like even when I’m tired, my body just keeps moving… Hehe… If anything, I feel like I could start running right now.
You:
Don’t push yourself too hard
Bellen:
It’s alright, it’s alright. I’m pretty confident when it comes to my stamina…
Woo woo
Bellen:
…! That sound of the siren…
You:
An angel alarm…?
Bellen:
Master, stay close to me. First, let’s return to the mansion and assess the situation… !! Master, look out!!
You:
Huh…?!
Clang
Angel:
"…………."
The moment Bellen shouted… He raised his spear and blocked the attack of the angel that had descended from above.
Bellen:
A surprise attack, huh… You really never let your guard down… do you?
Angel:
"Die. For the sake of life."
Bellen:
Hah!
Whoosh!
Flap flap…
Bellen swung his spear, forcing the angel back… Then he stepped in front of me and took a defensive stance, as if to protect me.
Bellen:
Master! Please release my demon power…!
You:
Got it…!
You:
"Come forth, ally of the darkness. I summon thee."
“By the contract with the demon, release Bellen’s power…”
Bellen:
Alright… Here I come, angel. I won’t let you lay a single finger on my Master…
Clang!
After releasing the power of the demon and transforming his form… Bellen attacked the angel at a speed too fast for the eye to follow.
His fierce assault was even more intense than what I had witnessed during the mock battle…
It was hard to believe this was the same person who had been fighting just moments ago.
Tap tap tap…
Berrien:
Master! Are you unharmed…?!
You:
Ah, Berrien
It seems they heard the commotion, and Berrien along with the butlers from the villa quickly rushed over to where we were.
Even they, upon seeing Bellen’s performance in battle… seemed unable to hide their surprise, just like me.
Hanamaru:
Whoa, whoa… Bellen is incredible. Even though he was just fighting in that long mock battle until a little while ago…
Yuhan:
Yes. Even though his power was released, the fact that he can still move like that is remarkable…
Teddy:
Does he still have stamina left…? Or is his recovery ability simply incredible…?
Berrien:
Hehe… That may certainly be part of it, but… When he has something he must protect by his side, he’s able to draw out even greater strength… That is Bellen’s true strength.
As he said that, Berrien looked toward me and smiled… Then, a moment later, his expression turned serious again.
Berrien:
Master. Please release my power as well. Hanamaru-san and the others will protect Master…!
Hanamaru:
Yeah.
Yuhan:
Understood.
You:
I’ll release your power, Berrien!
You:
"Come forth, ally of the darkness. I summon thee."
“By the contract with the demon, release Berrien’s power…”
Berrien:
Thank you.
You:
Be careful
Berrien:
Yes…!
Tap tap tap…
Berrien:
Bellen! Leave Master’s protection to the butlers from the villa. That angel… Let’s defeat it together!
Bellen:
Yeah. I've been waiting for you, Berrien.
…No. I’ve kept you waiting far too long. From now on, with all of our hands together… Let’s protect humanity and Master!
While taking a walk around the mansion, I… spotted Haures and Bellen deep in conversation in the garden.
You:
Haures, Bellen
Haures:
Oh? Good afternoon, Master.
You:
Good afternoon
Bellen:
Master. You look well today.
You:
Yeah
When they noticed me, both of them greeted me with warm smiles.
You:
What were you two talking about?
Haures:
Actually… We were just discussing the renovation work on the villa. Now that Bellen-san and Shiro have joined us… We're thinking of making a few changes to the second floor of the villa, so it'll be more comfortable for the two of them.
You:
I see
Bellen:
So… We're just about to head out and buy the materials we'll need. Hehe… It's already a wonderful place as it is, but… Thanks to everyone, it looks like it's going to become an even lovelier place. Once it's finished, come visit us too, Master.
You:
I will
Watching the excitement on Bellen's face… I found myself growing curious about their shopping trip as well.
You:
Can I come with you?
Bellen:
Huh? You're coming too, Master?
You:
I'm a little curious
Bellen:
Hehe, I see. I'd be happy if you came along too, Master. Then let's go together.
And so… The three of us headed into town together.
[Central Land Espoir]
Once we arrived in town… we made our way through the shopping list without any trouble.
Haures:
All right… That should be just about everything we need.
Bellen:
That went by surprisingly quickly, didn't it?
Haures:
Yes. Since we were able to buy most of the materials at the same shop, it didn't take long. Master, we still have some time left… What would you like to do now?
You:
Hmm…
Just then… a man called out to the three of us.
Middle-aged Man:
Oh… Haures-kun, just the person I was hoping to see.
Haures:
Ah, hello.
Bellen:
Haures-kun. Do you know this person?
Haures:
Yes.He works at the shop where we bought the materials earlier. That shop doesn't hold any prejudice against Demon Butlers… so they've always been very good to us. I've been treated very well by this person as well, for a long time now.
You:
I see
Middle-aged Man:
Haures-kun, do you have a moment? We're in the middle of bringing some merchandise into the shop… but we're a little short on hands right now. Some of it is lumber… and a fair bit of it is pretty large, so it's been quite a job. Would you mind giving us a hand for just a little while?
Haures:
...You're right, that's quite a load. Hmm... But... I can't leave Master's side…
Middle-aged Man:
Come on, I'm begging you~. I've been hauling stuff around so much, my arms are completely worn out.
Haures:
Hmm…
Bellen:
Haures-kun, why don't you give him a hand?
Haures:
Bellen-san… But…
Bellen:
I'll stay with Master. It's okay, it's okay. I'll make sure to protect Master.
Choices:
Go give him a hand, okay?
Don't worry about me
Haures:
Even Master too… Hmm… Understood. Then, Bellen-san… May I entrust Master to you?
Bellen:
Yeah. Leave it to Big Brother Bellen.
Haures:
Heh, I'm counting on you. Well then, Master… I'll be back in a little while.
You:
Take care
Tap... tap... tap...
And with that, Haures ran off to help.
Bellen:
...Now then, Master. Until Haures-kun comes back, let's take it easy together. We've been walking around shopping… You must be getting hungry, right?
You:
I might be a little hungry
Bellen:
Alright, then… Looks like there's a café over there, so let's check it out.
You:
Sounds good
Bellen led me… and we decided to stop by a nearby café.
[Espoir Café]
Clink…
As we opened the café door and stepped inside...
A man who appeared to be the owner… silently turned his gaze toward us.
You:
Um…
Owner:
.........
...You're… the Master of the Demon Butlers, aren't you?
You:
Huh...?
Owner:
In that case… You over there must be one of the Demon Butlers…
Bellen:
.........That's right…
Hearing the anger in the owner's voice… Bellen stepped in front of me protectively.
Bellen:
Master… Stay behind me.
You:
Y-Yeah
Owner:
Skipping work to have tea with your butler, huh? Hmph... Must be nice. Even though you can't protect anyone… You're still taking money from the nobles. If you've got time to sit around drinking tea! Then get out there and wipe out the angels already! How long are you going to keep putting humanity in danger?! You can't even destroy the angels, and you can't even protect humanity… And despite all that, you're leisurely having tea with your butler? Don't push your luck! You, and the butlers who serve you… You're all really shameless...!
Choices:
Th-That's not…
.........
Bellen:
...Master. If we argue back here, it'll turn into a scene. It hurts, but...
Let's just endure it.
Choices:
...I know
Sorry, thank you
Owner:
...I don't have a single drop of tea to serve the likes of you. Get out of my shop. And don't you ever come back!!
You:
.........
Bellen:
Master, let's go.
You:
...Yeah
Without saying a word in response… Bellen urged me to leave the café.
Feeling both sadness and frustration… I quietly left the café.
Chapter 2
After leaving the café… we decided to rest on a nearby bench.
Bellen:
Master… You were really caught off guard by that, weren't you?
...You don't need to let it bother you. Master, you're always… working so hard for the sake of this world. That's because… we're the ones who understand it best.
You:
.........
Even though Bellen tried to comfort me… I couldn't find the right words to respond.
Bellen:
Master… Wait here for just a little while. I'll be right back.
After saying that… Bellen headed toward the nearby stall right beside the bench where we were sitting.
- A few minutes later -
Tap... tap... tap...
Bellen:
Master, sorry to keep you waiting. I bought some chocolate donuts from the stall. Have something sweet and cheer up.
Bellen held out a delicious-looking chocolate donut to me.
The sweet aroma and Bellen's thoughtfulness… made me feel my sadness from earlier start to fade.
You:
...Thank you, Bellen
Bellen:
You're welcome.
...Earlier, I told you to "endure it"... I know I made you feel frustrated.
...I'm sorry, Master. If I had argued back there… the people who saw it might have ended up feeling even more negatively toward Master… I wanted to avoid that happening.
Choices:
I understood what Beren was thinking
Thank you for stopping me
Bellen:
Yeah… But... I ended up hurting the most important thing of all… Master's heart. I'm truly sorry, Master.
Bellen said that, but… I fully understood that everything he did was for my sake.
I thanked Bellen… and took a bite of the donut.
You:
...It's delicious
Bellen:
I see… I'm glad.
Beren, looking relieved… smiled at me.
Bellen:
...Actually, when I bought that donut… I asked about the owner of that café.
You:
Huh?
Bellen:
...I thought there might be some reason… why he was so angry at Master and us. And I found out that…
......That café owner… apparently, his family was attacked by angels recently. His wife and child… It seems he lost them in that attack.
You:
No way…
Bellen:
That's why… He believes that "the reason he couldn't protect them was because of the Demon Butlers"... When he saw us… I think all that anger just came rushing back.
You:
I see...
Bellen:
Of course… No matter how much pain and sorrow he's been through… That doesn't give him a reason to hurt someone else. But maybe, right now… he needed somewhere to direct all that anger.
You:
.........
Bellen:
...Master, you did nothing wrong. I'm sure he… didn't say those things because he truly wanted to hurt you. Even though no one is at fault… the grief of losing something precious... makes someone become the one to blame.
...We need to defeat the angels soon. So that something like this never happens again.
You:
...Yeah
Bellen:
We have the power to defeat the angels… and we have a duty to do so. That's why… Even when it's painful, we can't run away. We have responsibilities… that we have to carry.
You:
...Yeah, I understand perfectly
Bellen:
...You're truly a dependable Master. Unlike us… you didn't choose to take on this responsibility yourself. Truthfully… Master shouldn't have to carry a burden like this at all…
You:
I want to take responsibility for it properly
Bellen:
Master…
No matter how much sorrow I have to endure...
This world where everyone is… has already become my place to belong.
You:
Because I want to protect everyone too
Bellen:
......Heh. You're amazing, Master. Truly… You're really amazing. Master is just like… a king from a storybook.
You:
A-a king...?
Bellen:
And then… we butlers would be the soldiers, I suppose.
You:
Umm…
Bellen:
A king's struggles and inner conflicts… are things the people can't understand. But a king… carries those burdens while fighting to protect what is important.
You:
…That's true
Bellen:
......However… A king's suffering… the soldiers are always there, watching it closely. At the very least, I… am always watching over Master. So… you don't have to push yourself all alone.
...Because if you're crushed under the weight of that responsibility… there'll be nothing you can do. So that never happens… The burdens that Master carries… I'll carry them together with you, and so will everyone else. No matter what happens… you don't have to think that it's all your fault. When it feels too heavy, rely on us… Let's live in this world together.
You:
Yeah... thank you
Hearing my words… Bellen gave a soft smile, looking satisfied.
And then… he gently patted my head.
Bellen:
There, there… Don't forget what I just said, okay? In front of me… you don't have to be the strong and admirable Master. Like this, while I’m gently patting your head… When you want to cry, let yourself cry… and when you want to rely on someone, let yourself be cared for. You can just be… that adorable Master. It's a promise… with your Big Brother Bellen.
The gentleness in Bellen's voice and the warmth of his hand… made me feel my heart slowly calm down.
Some time after Teddy and the others became Demon Butlers…
I had just finished eating the breakfast Lono had prepared…
And was enjoying a cup of tea afterward.
You:
Thank you for the meal, Lono
Lono:
Hehe... thank you very much! How was breakfast today?
You:
It was delicious!
Lono:
Hehe... I'm glad to hear that! Actually, for today's breakfast... I tried making something a little more elaborate than usual. Lately, you've been busy with expeditions and attending tribunals, Master… With rescuing Haures and welcoming the new Demon Butlers… you've had a lot on your plate, haven't you?
Now that he mentioned it... both I and all the other butlers... have had a hectic, continuous series of days since we returned from the expedition.
You:
Come to think of it, I suppose it was quite busy
Lono:
So I wanted to help you relax, even if it was just a little, Master… So I really put my heart into making today’s breakfast better than ever!
You:
Thank you, Lono
Lono:
Not at all! I just wanted to do it. So, do you have any plans for today, Master?
You:
I don't think I have anything planned for today
Lono:
That's good to hear… Looks like you'll finally be able to take it easy for a change.
???:
Um...
Lono:
Hm?
You:
That voice…
Teddy:
Good morning, Master. Good morning, Lono-kun.
When I turned around, Teddy was there.
You:
Good morning, Teddy
Teddy:
......
When I returned the greeting, Teddy smiled, but...
Somehow, he seemed less energetic than usual.
Lono:
Good morning, Teddy-san. Did you need something?
Teddy:
Yeah, just… I have a favor to ask of Master...
Choices:
Me?
A favor?
Teddy:
Yes. But... I'll come back another time.
You:
Huh? Why?
Teddy:
Actually... the favor I wanted to ask of Master is… It's to visit the grave of one of my subordinates.
Choices:
Visit a grave?
Teddy's subordinates?
Lono:
If you mean Teddy-san's subordinates… You mean the ones who died during the expedition, right...?
Teddy:
Yeah, that's right. They were killed by angels... my precious family. They really were... like family to me.
You:
Teddy...
Teddy:
So, in front of their graves… I want to tell them that I've become a Demon Butler. As a Demon Butler, I swear I'll defeat the angels… I want to make that vow in front of them. And, "The person standing beside me is my Master." "They're someone very precious to me."... I want to introduce Master to them, so I can put their minds at ease. It's nice and sunny today, and the weather's perfect for visiting the graves… So I was going to ask Master to come with me, but… Another day, whenever it's convenient for Master… Would you come visit their graves with me?
Choices:
It doesn't have to be today?
It's fine if we go today
Teddy:
I happened to overhear earlier… Master... today is your first day off in a while, isn't it? On a day like that… I can't intrude on it for something as personal as this.
You:
I don't think you're intruding at all
Teddy:
Master...?
Choices:
Let's go visit their graves together
I want to pay my respects to Teddy's family too
Teddy:
...Thank you, Master.
Lono:
Hehe, looks like it's settled. Then I'll get the carriage ready… In Teddy-san's place.
Teddy:
Huh? I'd really appreciate it, but… Are you sure it's okay for me to ask you?
Lono:
Yeah. While I'm getting the carriage ready… Teddy-san, could you go find Ammon-san? If you ask Ammon-san… I'm sure he'll wrap up some of the flowers blooming in the garden as an offering. If we split up and get everything ready like that… I think we should be able to head to the cemetery before noon.
Teddy:
...Got it. Thank you, Lono-kun.
And so, feeling Lono's kindness, Teddy and I set out to visit the graves.
[On the Way to the Cemetery Inside the Carriage]
- A little while later -
I and Teddy rode in the carriage on the way to the cemetery.
Apparently, it takes several hours by carriage to get from the mansion to the cemetery, but...
Thanks to Teddy chatting with me, the journey never felt boring.
Teddy:
...Um, Master.
You:
What's wrong?
Teddy:
You're spending your first day off in a long time... for me and my subordinates… Thank you so much, really. When they find out my Master is such a wonderful person… I'm sure they'll be amazed! Even more than the fact that I've become a Demon Butler!
You:
Come on, you're praising me too much
Ever since I decided to go with him to visit the graves… Teddy had thanked me over and over again.
But whenever Teddy smiled and said, "Thank you"... He looked less cheerful than usual.
More than anything… The hands resting on his lap were trembling ever so slightly.
He was probably trying to hide the grief of losing his comrades… At least in front of me.
You:
Teddy...
Teddy:
Yes! What is it, Master?
Waiting until the carriage slowed down… I moved over and sat beside Teddy.
Then… I took one of his hands and gently wrapped it in both of my hands.
Teddy:
Ah, Master...!? Um, what's this about…
Choices:
Teddy, you don't have to push yourself
If you're hurting, you don't have to hide it
Teddy:
Master...
...Thank you, Master. You really are so kind… Haha… My subordinates might end up getting jealous of me… That I get to serve someone as wonderful as you…
The hand I held in both hands was still trembling.
Teddy gently placed his free hand… Over my hands, which were wrapped around his.
You:
Teddy...?
Teddy:
I'm sorry, Master… I know... that this is something a butler shouldn't be doing… Please, just a little longer… Let me stay like this.
You:
Understood
Teddy's hand was large and rough… Cold, and trembling ever so slightly.
I held his hand tightly.
Teddy:
Master... Thank you. I really… I'm so happy that you're my Master, [Name]-sama...
Chapter 2
[Central Land Cemetery]
- A little while later -
The carriage carrying I and Teddy arrived at the entrance to the cemetery.
Teddy:
Master. Hold onto my hand and step down slowly, okay?
You:
Thank you
With Teddy's help, I stepped down from the carriage.
Teddy's hand was trembling ever so slightly, and his fingertips were ice-cold.
It seemed that, after all… Going to his comrades' graves was painful for him.
Letting go of his hand… For some reason, I found myself reluctant to do it.
Teddy:
Um, Master...? Is something the matter?
You:
Hey, Teddy
Teddy:
Yes? What is it?
Choices:
Can I keep holding your hand like this?
Can we keep holding hands like this?
Teddy:
Huh...?
Choices:
Just in case I might trip
I might stumble on a step
Teddy:
...Of course. If that's the reason, then I'd be happy to!
You:
Thank you
Teddy:
No... I'm the one who should be thanking you. Thank you, Master. Please... let me lean on your kindness just a little while longer.
You:
...Yeah
Still hand in hand, I and Teddy made our way toward the cemetery where Teddy's comrades were laid to rest.
[Central Land Cemetery]
Teddy:
...Thank you for coming with me, Master. This is the last grave.
After placing flowers at many graves with Teddy… I found myself standing before a single white gravestone.
Teddy:
Out of all the subordinates I had… He was one I'd known the longest. We were about the same age... More than a subordinate, he was like a friend to me… He was cheerful and always smiling.
As Teddy said that… He knelt in front of the grave and laid down a small white chrysanthemum.
Following Teddy's lead, I knelt down as well and placed the same kind of flower beside it.
Teddy:
Look... chrysanthemums. You always kept it from the others, but... you really did like flowers, didn't you? You hid it because you didn't want anyone to think it was unmanly, but… Everyone knew that you liked flowers, butterflies... all the beautiful things. Hey, look at this. This beautiful tailcoat. Can you tell? I became a Demon Butler. I wanted to take revenge on the angels who stole you all away… That's why I became a Demon Butler.
The smile faded from his face, and anger began to creep into his voice.
Teddy:
I'll never forgive the angels. Until I've had my revenge… I absolutely cannot die. So keep watching over me, all of you. The angels who wiped you out, I'll be the one to wipe them out.
You:
Teddy...
Confronted with the depth of Teddy's anger and grief… I couldn't help but call out his name.
Teddy's shoulders gave a slight twitch… And little by little, a smile returned to his face.
Teddy:
...But don't worry. I've become a Demon Butler, and from now on, I'll be fighting angels. There'll probably be a lot of painful times ahead, but… The other Demon Butlers, they're all wonderful people! Haures-san, the legendary swordsman, and also Boschi-san… And Hanamaru-san and Yuhan-san, who became Demon Butlers at the same time I did… There are so many more people I'd love to introduce you to. And listen to this...
After becoming a Demon Butler, I found someone precious to me! That person... is the one standing beside me right now.
You:
(Huh...?)
Teddy:
That person's name is [Name]-sama... My Master. Master... [Name]-sama is truly kind… The kind of person I genuinely want to cherish with all my heart. Today, Master even held my trembling hand… You have no idea how much that meant to me. Being able to serve someone so wonderful… I'm truly happy now.
Choices:
(Teddy...)
(So that's how he really feels...)
Teddy:
...So you can all rest easy. I'm all right now. I'm really... living a happy life.
With a bright smile, Teddy declared those words… Then he rose to his feet in front of the grave.
Drawn along by him, I hurriedly stood up as well.
Teddy:
I think I've finally told them everything I wanted to say. Master… Thank you for staying with me through all of this.
Choices:
Don't worry about it
You don't have to thank me
Teddy:
Well then, Master… Shall we head back to the carriage?
With that, Teddy held out one hand toward me.
Choices:
Um...
(What's he trying to do...?)
Teddy:
There are a lot of uneven steps along the path, and it would be terrible if you tripped… Would you keep holding my hand on the way back, too?
You:
...Okay
I took Teddy's hand once more, and together we walked back the way we had come.
When I had first held it in the carriage, his hand had been cold… But now, it was gently warm.
[Inside the Carriage]
Teddy:
Master, this way, please.
You:
Yeah
With Teddy's help from inside the carriage, I climbed aboard… Then sat down across from him.
Teddy:
Master, thank you so much… For accompanying me today.
You:
Don't worry about it
Teddy:
Um... if it's all right with you, Master… May I do something to thank you for today, Master?
You:
A thank you?
Teddy:
Yes, a thank you! I know a café in Espoir that I'd love to recommend. So, instead of heading straight back to the mansion… Would you like to make a little detour to Espoir? They have delicious coffee and cake… I'd really love for you to try them too, Master.
Choices:
You're treating me?
Are you sure?
Teddy:
Of course!
You:
In that case, I think I'll make a little detour
Teddy:
Got it! I'll go ask the coachman to change our destination!
Teddy quickly climbed out of the carriage.
Teddy:
Excuse me! Could you change our destination to Espoir, please?
His voice drifting in from outside was bright and full of energy…
The Teddy whose hands had trembled during the ride there was nowhere to be found.
You:
(I'm glad...)
[Central Land Espoir]
- A Little While Later -
Teddy:
Phew...! We've arrived, Master! Come on! The café I wanted to show you is this way! Let's go, Master!
You:
Yeah...!
Tap... tap... tap…
[Espoir Café]
Teddy:
Master... this is the café I wanted to recommend!
It was a stylish café with a refined atmosphere, complete with outdoor terrace seating.
Teddy:
Please, Master, have a seat.
You:
Thank you
I took a seat in the chair Teddy had pulled out for me.
Teddy:
Then, I'll sit down as well.
You:
Please, go ahead
After waiting for my reply, Teddy took the seat across from me.
Teddy:
Master, here's the menu… What would you like to order? This café is famous for its coffee and cakes… But the tea and scones are delicious too!
Choices:
What do you recommend?
Which one do you like best, Teddy?
Teddy:
My recommendation? I'd recommend the house blend coffee and the strawberry tart! That's what I'm planning to have today, too.
You:
Then I think I'll have the same
Teddy:
Huh? Are you sure? They have lots of other options too…
Choices:
Because it's your recommendation
I want to have the same thing as you
Teddy:
Got it! I'll order the house blend and the strawberry tarts for both of us, then!
- A Little While Later -
Teddy:
Phew… The coffee here really is delicious.
You:
The tart is delicious too!
Teddy:
Hehe, I'm glad… I'm happy you enjoyed both the coffee and the cake, Master.
Choices:
No, thank you
I'm really glad you brought me here
Teddy:
Not at all! This is my way of thanking you for spending the day with me! You finally had a chance to relax at the mansion after so long, Master… But I ended up taking you with me to visit the graves, so please, let me do at least this much for you.
You:
You really don't have to worry about me…
Teddy:
No... if I don't do this, I won't be able to feel at ease. You'd only just returned from the expedition, and then you had to go straight to the tribunal… And without even having a chance to rest, you were already working to rescue Haures-san, weren't you?
Choices:
Well…
That's true, but…
Teddy:
That's why I wanted your first real day off in a long while… not to end with nothing but the sad memories of visiting a grave. I wanted us to have some coffee, eat some cake… And by the end of the day, I wanted to see you smiling, Master.
...Ah, I'm sorry. I'm the one who asked you to come with me to visit the graves in the first place…
With that, Teddy gave a small, sheepish smile.
You:
Teddy…
Even though he was the one mourning the loss of his precious subordinates… Teddy was the one worrying about me.
Not wanting to make kind-hearted Teddy worry any more, I tried to smile… But no matter what, I just couldn't manage it.
You:
(I'm sorry, Teddy...)
Teddy:
…
Master… Would you mind copying what I'm about to do?
Choices:
Huh?
You want me to copy you?
Teddy:
Yes!
Caught off guard by the sudden suggestion, I hesitated… But knowing Teddy, he probably wasn't up to anything strange.
Choices:
Okay
I'll give it a try
Teddy:
Thank you! All right, first… Make both of your hands into fists, like this! Then, stick up both of your index fingers…
You:
Like this?
Teddy:
That's right! And then… Use your index fingers to gently lift the corners of your mouth! There! That's a smile, all done!
With that, Teddy gave me a playful wink.
Teddy:
Master... today, I ended up making you go through something painful. Right now… This may be the only way I can make you smile, but… But starting tomorrow, I promise I'll make you smile for real, Master! And... I'll protect that smile of yours, no matter what. So, please don't worry, Master. I won't let you go through something so painful again, Master.
With those words, Teddy smiled gently… A smile so bright it was almost dazzling.
No matter how painful the road ahead might be… It was the kind of smile that made me feel certain that, as long as Teddy was by my side, I would always be able to keep moving forward.
Some time after Teddy and the others became Demon Butlers…
Lono:
Good morning, Master!
You:
Good morning, Lono
Lono:
For breakfast today, we have Eggs Benedict and Caesar salad. We used high-quality eggs, so it’s really delicious!
Berrien:
We have coffee prepared for your drink. It’s a rather bitter blend, so I’d recommend adding some milk as well.
Choices:
Huh, coffee?
Instead of tea?
Berrien:
Yes, that’s right. Teddy-san, who’s quite fond of coffee… Taught me the finer points of how to brew it properly… And just then, we happened to get our hands on some very good beans… So I thought I would very much like for you to try it as well, Master.
Lono:
The coffee Berrien-san brewed is really good! You should try some too, Master!
Prompted by Lono, I brought the mug to my lips.
The coffee’s bitterness and rich flavor spread through my mouth…
Its full-bodied aroma drifted gently through my nose.
You:
It’s delicious!
Berrien:
Hehe… I’m glad to hear you liked it.
Lono:
As expected of Berrien-san. Not only tea, but he's also skilled at brewing coffee.
Berrien:
Not at all… It’s only thanks to Teddy-san carefully teaching me how to brew it.
You:
Come to think of it, where’s Teddy?
Lono:
Ah, if you mean Teddy-san… I think he said he’d be helping with the gardening today, right?
Berrien:
Yes, at the moment… He should be working out in the garden together with Ammon-kun and the others. It’s rather warm for winter today… So after breakfast, it might be nice to go check on the garden for a bit.
Choices:
Got it
Maybe I’ll go take a look
After thoroughly enjoying the delicious breakfast and coffee…
I headed out toward the mansion’s garden.
[Devils’ Palace Garden]
Teddy:
Ammon-kun! Haures-san! Is it alright if I carry this lumber over there?
Ammon:
Yep, that’s good!
Haures:
Teddy… Can you carry it by yourself?
Teddy:
Yep, this much is no problem! Hup… there!
Ammon:
Seriously? He’s actually carrying it all by himself…
Haures:
Teddy’s pretty strong. At this rate, we could probably trust him with repair work around the mansion too.
Teddy:
Hehe, I’ve been training! Leave the heavy lifting to me!
Choices:
Good morning, everyone
You’re working hard, Teddy
Teddy:
Ah! That voice is…! Good morning, Master!
Wiping the sweat from his brow, Teddy turned around.
His expression was exactly what one would call a radiant smile.
Even drenched in sweat, Teddy’s smile conveyed his pure affection toward me.
Faced with Teddy’s earnest, straightforward gaze…
I couldn’t help but grow a little flustered.
Teddy:
Sorry I’m all sweaty. I was just doing some work out in the garden a moment ago…
You:
You’re really working hard
Teddy:
Yeah! Since I finally got to become a Demon Butler… I want to do my best at every kind of job!
Haures:
Teddy’s got both motivation and strength… So he’s been a huge help to us.
Ammon:
He’s careful with his work too, so he’s really well-suited for gardening~. What do you think, Teddy-san? Want to join me on garden duty?
Haures:
Don’t try to snatch him away, Ammon. The maintenance team wants Teddy’s strength too.
You:
You’re really popular, Teddy
Teddy:
Hehe… I’m happy to hear I’ve actually been able to help out.
Ammon:
Though, I think the most popular one around here is probably Master… Still, Teddy-san really does have a good reputation for the way he works~. Can you see it, Master? Teddy-san helped out with maintaining that flower bed over there.
I looked in the direction Ammon was pointing.
In the flower bed, rows of low-growing flowers had been neatly arranged.
Centered around shades of purple, with yellow and white mixed in as well…
Despite it being winter, countless colorful flowers were in bloom.
Ammon:
Those are pansies. They’re great flowers for adding color to the garden during winter.
You:
They’re beautiful
Ammon:
Right! Teddy-san helped plant these flowers too…
Haures:
He was careful while working, making sure not to damage the flowers. And even so, his pace while working wasn’t bad at all.
Ammon:
Exactly! He’s seriously been a huge help. Thanks to Teddy-san, this flower bed too… Is almost finished now.
Choices:
Almost finished?
So it’s not finished yet?
Teddy:
The remaining work is rebuilding the fence and… We’re also planting some more flowers after that, right?
Ammon:
Yep. But just planting ordinary store-bought flowers would be kind of boring, so… We’re gonna add a little twist here… And plant wild violets!
You:
Violets?
Haures:
You’re going to gather wild flowers and plant them in the flower bed?
Ammon:
Yeah. The pansies planted in the flower bed… Are flowers cultivated specifically for gardening, but… Originally… They were created by crossbreeding wild violets and tricolor violets. So by planting wild violets… Right beside the pansies… You’ll be able to enjoy comparing the wild, natural charm of the violets… With the bright elegance of the pansies.
You:
That sounds nice!
Teddy:
But… violets are spring flowers, right? Wouldn’t they not be blooming right now…?
Ammon:
That part’s no problem! There’s a spot near the mansion where early-blooming violets grow. Well, even if I say near… It’s just within walking distance, that’s all.
Teddy:
Oh, then do you want me to go get them? I know what violets look like…
So if you just tell me where they are, I can go gather them.
You:
Can I come along too?
Teddy:
Huh? You too, Master?
Choices:
I’m curious what kind of place it is
I want to see the place where the flowers are blooming
Ammon:
I don’t mind leaving it to Teddy-san, but… If Master’s going too, then I kinda want to come along as well…
You:
You’re not coming, Ammon?
Haures:
Unfortunately, Ammon and I will be staying behind at the mansion. We still need to finish the remaining work…
You:
I see
Ammon:
Aww man… rather than rebuilding fences… I wanted to go see the flowers with you, Master.
Haures:
Hey, Ammon… You’re making me help you, and that’s how you put it?
Ammon:
I know, I know. I am grateful to you, Haures-san. Well then… Teddy-san, Master. I’m counting on you for gathering the violets.
Teddy:
Yeah, leave it to me!
You:
I’m counting on you too, Teddy
Teddy:
Yes!
Chapter 2
[Central Land Forest]
Teddy:
Umm… if I remember what Ammon-kun said… We still have about another hour of walking from here, right…? Master, we’re going to be walking quite a long distance… So if you get tired, please tell me right away, okay?
Choices:
Got it
Thank you
Teddy:
Also… there are a lot of exposed tree roots around here… So please watch your step.
You:
Okay
I and Teddy began walking deeper into the forest.
Thunk
You:
Whoa!
I immediately caught my foot on a tree root.
Starting to fall, I instinctively squeezed my eyes shut.
Grab…!
Teddy:
Are you alright, Master!?
You:
Huh?
When I opened my eyes…
Teddy was firmly holding me up after catching me mid-fall.
Flustered by how close we had suddenly become…
I, supported by Teddy, managed to steady myself again.
You:
Th-Thanks
Teddy:
Master, I’m sorry… I should’ve been paying closer attention myself…
Are you okay? You didn’t twist your ankle or anything, did you?
You:
Yeah, I’m okay
Teddy:
That’s a relief… I can’t let Master get hurt while I’m here with you.
Teddy let out a sigh.
It seemed he had genuinely been worried about me.
You:
Sorry for making you worry
Teddy:
No… I’m the one who should’ve been more careful. By the way… I think the path ahead is going to stay rough for a while… Do you think you’ll be able to keep walking, Master?
You:
P-Probably…
After being saved by Teddy just now, I couldn’t exactly insist I was completely fine.
Teddy:
Hmm, what should we do…?
…Ah, I know. That is, if you’re okay with it…
You:
What is it?
Teddy:
Would you like to hold hands with me?
You:
Huh!?
Teddy:
If we’re walking along rough terrain… I think it’d be safer if you held my hand.
You:
Are you really okay with that, Teddy?
Teddy:
Of course! It’s my job to protect you, Master!
You:
U-Umm…
Once he put it that way, refusing somehow started to feel wrong.
You:
Then, would it be okay if I took you up on that?
Teddy:
Got it! Master, make sure to hold onto my hand tightly!
I firmly grasped the hand Teddy held out to me.
His hand was rough and calloused, yet incredibly warm…
The kind of hand that made me feel strangely safe just by holding it.
- After a while -
Teddy:
Phew… We’ve walked quite a long way.
You:
I might be getting a little tired…
Teddy:
Yeah… I think we’re almost at our destination, though… According to Ammon-kun… It’s supposed to be a sunny spot just past the forest…
…Oh, ah! Master, I think that’s it! Right up ahead is the place we’re looking for!
Pointing further down the path, Teddy smiled brightly.
Teddy:
Master, let’s take a break over there!
You:
Okay
Led by Teddy’s hand, I continued on toward the far side of the forest.
Teddy:
Whoa…! Now that we’re seeing them up close, they’re really beautiful!
We arrived at the shore of a lake.
The sunlight reflected off the lake’s surface, making it shimmer and ripple brilliantly…
And all around it bloomed violets and other lovely little flowers.
It was warm, peaceful… and breathtakingly beautiful.
You:
It’s so beautiful…!
Teddy:
Yeah, it really is! It’s warm, and there are flowers blooming everywhere… It’s like spring has arrived only around this lake!
After saying that, Teddy walked closer to the lake…
Then crouched down in front of a purple flower blooming along the shore.
That flower was probably…
The early-blooming violet Ammon had mentioned.
You:
What a cute flower…
Teddy:
Yeah, it’s really cute.
I crouched down beside Teddy as well.
Teddy:
Even though they’re growing here beside such a beautiful lake, having to take them away with us… Feels a little sad, honestly…
…But I’m sure they’ll bloom beautifully at Devil’s Palace too! Because Devil’s Palace is a place every bit as wonderful… As this lake is!
Choices:
Yeah, it is
I’m sure they’ll bloom beautifully there too
Teddy smiled brightly…
Then removed his gloves and began digging around the violet’s roots.
The soil was soft…
And before long, the violet rested safely in Teddy’s hands.
Then, sunlight streamed through a break in the clouds…
Illuminating the area around me and Teddy.
And then… from the violet in Teddy’s hands…
A faint, elegant sweetness drifted through the air.
Choices:
Wow…!
It smells wonderful…!
Teddy:
Seeing them up close… These violets are even prettier than I thought…
Teddy looked up…
Then smiled brightly at me.
At that completely unclouded smile…
I felt my heart begin to race.
- A little while later -
Having gathered the violets we came for…
I and Teddy moved into the shade of a tree to rest for a while.
The sun was still high in the sky and pleasantly warm…
And we quietly enjoyed the peaceful moment together.
Teddy:
……
Um, Master…
You:
What’s wrong?
Teddy:
Thank you… for coming with me today
You:
Thank you, too
Teddy:
I had a really great time spending the day with you, Master.
Teddy's voice, which had been so cheerful just moments ago, suddenly took on a more serious tone… I looked at him.
He was smiling, but… For some reason, there seemed to be a hint of sadness in the depths of his eyes.
You:
…Teddy?
Teddy:
Back when I was a soldier… There was a time I went to a lake with the soldiers under my command. It wasn't quite as beautiful as this lake, but… It was a very beautiful place all the same. It was a really warm day, so…
We spent it fishing, swimming… just having fun together. So, if I had come to this lake by myself… I think it would have been painful for me.
You:
Painful?
Teddy:
...Yes. During that expedition, my subordinates… They died near the building, in a cold and lonely place. Those warm, happy memories end up being buried beneath cold, painful ones. If you hadn't been here with me… I'm sure I'd be suffering right now.
You:
Teddy…
I couldn't find the right words to say to him.
Teddy:
But that’s not what happened. Because… you’re here with me, Master!
You:
Me…?
Teddy:
Yes, that's right! Having someone precious by my side… That’s why I was able to get through this without suffering. More than that, we walked through the forest together… Admired the beautiful scenery, and were moved by the fragrance of the flowers… We made so many wonderful memories together! Master… Truly, thank you so much!
Teddy smiled as he said it, his words filled with quiet conviction.
Even though losing the comrades who had been like family to him must have left deep scars…
He wore such an endlessly bright smile that you would never have guessed it.
[Devil's Palace Private Room]
- Later that night -
Knock, knock, knock…
Choices:
Please
Come in
Click
Teddy:
Excuse me, Master.
Choices:
Teddy?
What’s wrong?
Teddy:
Well, actually… I came to give you this. Please, take this!
Teddy held out something he had been hiding behind his back.
You:
This is…
What Teddy handed over was…
A small bouquet, tied together with a pale blue ribbon.
Teddy:
It’s small, but it’s a bouquet of marguerites! Today, I helped Ammon-kun with his work… And as a thank you, he gave me some flowers, so I made them into a bouquet!
You:
Is it really okay for me to have this?
Teddy:
Of course! This bouquet is my way of thanking you for today!
You:
A thank you…?
Teddy:
Yes! Going to pick violets with you today… It truly became a wonderful memory for me. So, this is my way of saying thank you! Master… Thank you for making those memories with me. Oh, and this is something Ammon-kun told me… The language of marguerites is "trust" and "sincerity"... And also "gentle memories." Just as you gave me precious memories, Master… To a kind and sincere Master... I hope that you will have many more gentle memories. This bouquet is a token of that wish!
Teddy’s voice and expression as he said that... were as bright and radiant as ever.
Along with Teddy, a person to whom the flower language of “trust” and “sincerity” suits better than anyone else... I strongly wished to continue making gentle memories together.
Some time after Teddy and the others became Demon Butlers…
As I was strolling through the garden…
the voices of the butlers could be heard coming from the backyard.
You:
They must be training in the backyard
Teddy:
Hah…! Taaah…!
It seemed Teddy was participating along with them as well.
Curious about how everyone was doing, I decided to head over to the backyard and take a look.
Tap… tap…
[Devil’s Palace Backyard]
When I arrived at the backyard…
Teddy, Haures, and Lono were in the middle of training together.
Or rather…
it seemed more accurate to say that Haures and the others were instructing Teddy.
Teddy:
Phew… Like this?
Haures:
No… Your elbow’s raised a little too high. With that stance, your first movement will end up too slow.
Lono:
That's right... Angels are incredibly fast. If you don’t cut down every unnecessary movement as much as possible, they’ll slip away from you in an instant.
Teddy:
I see… Then I really do need to adapt the sword forms I’ve used up until now. Lower the elbow… Then if I do that, the position of my right foot should probably be more like…
Teddy seemed to be experimenting with different sword stances.
His expression was completely different from his usual cheerful self…
He wore the face of a true swordsman.
Lono:
Phew. Still… After basic training, then sparring… and now stance practice too…You only just came to the mansion not that long ago…
but with this much training, I’m surprised you haven’t given up already, Teddy.
Teddy:
Yeah. After all, I’m being personally trained by Haures-san. Getting to be trained by that legendary swordsman… There’s no way I could ask for anything luckier than this!
Lono:
……Was he really that amazing? That guy, Haures…
Teddy:
Lono-kun. Calling a legendary swordsman “that guy Haures” is a bit much, don’t you think~? He’s the leader, you know. You should call him “Haures-san.”
Lono:
It’s fine. I’m already used to calling him that.
Haures:
Sigh… It’d make things a lot easier if all my juniors were as straightforward as Teddy.
You:
Everyone’s working really hard
Haures:
Hm? Master… so you were here.
Teddy:
Ah, Master! Good work today! Did you come to watch our training? If you’d like, we’re about to do a practice match!
You:
U-Um…
Haures:
No… Let’s call it a day for training. We’ve been training since this morning… and resting your body is important too. Besides… Teddy’s still at the stage where he’s getting his body accustomed to everything.
Teddy:
R-Right… That’s true…
You:
Get his body accustomed to it…?
Teddy:
Ah, no. It’s nothing you need to worry about, Master. Alright then… Now, what should we do from here?
Lono:
Ah, right. Haures and I are about to head into town to pick up some supplies… If you’d like, Teddy-san, want to come with us?
Teddy:
Huh? To Espoir?
Haures:
That’s right. We’ll probably be asking Teddy to handle shopping runs in the future as well… It’s a good opportunity to introduce you to the shops we frequent. Come with us, Teddy.
Teddy:
Got it! It’s been a while since I last went shopping in town~
You:
Would it be alright if I came along too?
Teddy:
Huh? Master, you’ll come with us too? Lucky! Of course that’s fine, Master! Let’s go shopping around town together!
Haures:
Teddy. I understand you’re excited, but… Try not to get too carried away. Once we get to town, your top priority is Master’s safety.
Teddy:
Understood! Leave it to me. As your butler, Master, I’ll protect you properly and make you proud.
You:
I’m counting on you, Teddy
Teddy:
Yes! Please don't leave my side, Master!
After that, I and the others climbed into the carriage…
and the four of us headed for Espoir together.
[Central Land Espoir]
Haures:
Alright then. As for today’s shopping run… Teddy. You more or less understand the layout of Espoir already, right?
Teddy:
Huh? Yeah, I’d say so. I lived in the barracks for a long time, so… I think I have a pretty good sense of the area.
Haures:
I see. That’s good, then. Then from here on, go around to the shops written on this memo. Today is just an introduction. Just greeting them is fine.
Teddy:
Eh? O-Okay… But… Aren’t you and the others coming with me, Haures-san?
Haures:
We’re going shopping at a different store. We’ll probably have our hands full with all the luggage… In the meantime, I’m leaving Master in your care, Teddy.
Teddy:
B-But… If it’s carrying luggage, I should be the one doing it since I’m the junior here.
Haures:
No… If possible, I’d rather not bring Master to the store we’re going to.
Lono:
The shop we’re about to go to… The owner kind of hates us.
Teddy:
Ah… I-Is that so…?
Lono:
So, that's why... We’re counting on you to take care of Master. Don’t worry! The shops written on that memo only have kind shopkeepers.
Teddy:
But… In that case, maybe I should handle that shopping errand instead…
Haures:
It’s fine, Teddy. At least, for now. You can just... get used to it little by little over time.
Teddy:
...Yes. I understand. I’m sorry. For making you worry about me…
Lono:
It’s fine! Well then, we’re counting on you to take care of Master.
Haures:
Excuse us, Master.
Haures and Lono bowed to me before taking their leave.
After that, Teddy and I decided to visit the shops written on the memo.
Chapter 2
- A little while later -
Kind Shopkeeper:
Thanks for coming by! Do your best, Teddy-kun!
Teddy:
Yeah! Thanks, mister! Hehe. He really did seem like a genuinely nice old man, didn’t he?
You:
Was that the last shop?
Teddy:
Yes. We’ve gone around to all the shops written on the memo. Well then, shall we head back to the meeting place soon? Um… From this street, the shortcut would be…
Woo Woo
At that moment…
The sound of sirens echoed throughout the city of Espoir.
Teddy:
...! This sound is…
You:
An angel alert…
Teddy:
Kh…! Did angels appear again…? Where is it? Just where did they appear…
Woman’s Voice:
Kyaaaaaaaaaah!
A woman’s terrified scream could be heard from a nearby alley.
Startled, we turned toward the direction the scream came from…
From deep within the alley…
A familiar white light could be seen faintly leaking out.
Teddy:
!! That light, it’s from an angel…
You:
We have to go help them, quickly…!
Teddy:
Yes! Master, stay behind me and follow closely!
Tap tap tap…
Together with Teddy, we entered the alley where the scream had come from…
A mother and child collapsed there…
And at that very moment, an angel was about to attack them.
Angel:
“Die. For the sake of life.”
Teddy:
Watch out!
Clang!
Teddy instantly dashed forward and unleashed a powerful blow at the angel.
The angel, caught off guard, was blown back several meters, but…
It quickly regained its balance in midair…
Then turned back toward Teddy.
Teddy:
Kh…! As I thought, something like that isn’t enough to finish it off… Are you alright? Now’s your chance! Hurry and run!
Woman:
Eh…? Ah, yes… thank you very much…!
Tap tap tap…
Thanks to Teddy, we somehow managed to rescue the mother and child, but…
At this rate, Teddy is in danger.
You:
I have to release your power quickly…!
Teddy:
Kh…! Honestly, I’d like to do that too, but… Actually… Berrien-san and the others are still stopping me from releasing my demon power. Until the new power fully settles into my body… They said there’s no knowing what might happen…
You:
B-But… at this rate…
Teddy:
It’ll be alright! I’m sure Haures-san and Lono-kun will come running here soon. Until then… At the very least, even I can keep the angel pinned down here!
Choices:
It’s too dangerous!
Are you really going to be okay…?
Teddy:
There’s no need to worry, Master. After all, I was personally trained by Haures-san himself. I won’t go down that easily. Master, please go bring the other two here!
You:
O-Okay…!
Tap tap tap…
With that said, Teddy ran toward the angel.
Teddy:
Kh…! S-So fast…! But… not yet…!
Clang
Even as Teddy’s voice echoed from the alley, making it hard to leave him behind…
I hurried into the city to go call Haures and Lono.
- A little while later -
Teddy:
Hah… hah… D-Damn it… As I thought on my own… Just holding out is all I can manage…
Angel:
“...”
Teddy:
Kh…! But I’m not the same person I used to be anymore… Because of you all, I've despaired countless times... But even so, I made up my mind, and that's why I'm here… Lamenting my own weakness won’t protect anyone… As long as I'm here… I won't let you take anything from anyone ever again!!
Angel:
“Die. For the sake of life.”
Teddy:
Then try it! I can still fight!
Haures:
Heh… Well said, Teddy!
Clang
Teddy:
Huh!? H-Haures-san…?
Lono:
Leave the rest to us. We'll handle this thing!
Whoosh
Teddy:
!! S-So fast…
Tap tap tap…
You:
Teddy, you're alright!
Teddy:
Ah, Master… I see… So you released Haures-san and Lono-kun's demon powers. No wonder they're so strong… And so fast… I see… So I'll be able to move like that someday too… ...That movement...
...They deliberately used themselves as bait to create an opening for an attack on its wings... I see...
Teddy watched Haures and the others fight with an intense, focused gaze.
Those eyes were truly… the pure gaze of someone who sincerely desires to become stronger.
Angel:
“Die… d-die… f-for the sake… of… li-life…”
"..."
Pierced through by the sword, the angel emitted a brilliant light before vanishing.
- A few minutes later -
Lono:
Alright! Angel hunt complete!
Haures:
Yeah. Once again, we managed to get through it without anyone being harmed. We owe that to Teddy, too. You did well.
Teddy:
Huh…? Me? No way… I could barely do anything except keep the angel occupied…
Lono:
What are you talking about! You saved that mother and child's lives, didn't you?
Haures:
Yeah. Master told us what happened. Besides, holding an angel back by yourself without releasing your demon power… That's a remarkable accomplishment. You did well, Teddy.
Teddy:
N-No way… I still have a long way to go. Compared to the way you two fight, all I can see are the things I'm still lacking… But… There’s one thing I did gain confidence in. Right in front of me… I was able to stop an angel from hurting someone. I… I want to become much stronger. And then… I want to become strong enough to defeat angels, just like Haures-san and the others… I want to become someone who can protect the people precious to me… With my own two hands… That's why...
Master. Until that time... please wait just a little longer.
You:
Yeah…
As Teddy spoke those words to me…
He smiled, but there was unwavering determination in his eyes.
Teddy's wish to "protect the people precious to him" is... a very sorrowful wish, considering his past...
Even so, I don't want Teddy to get hurt anymore.
As I imagined the sorrow hidden deep within his eyes…
Teddy was standing there, wearing a pained expression as he took a deep breath.
Teddy:
…Haaah…
………Phew. Alright… It’s okay, it’s okay…
You:
Teddy…?
Teddy:
Eh…? Ah, Master…
You:
Is something wrong?
Teddy:
N-No… it’s nothing at all! See? I’m perfectly fine! …Or so I say… Trying to brush it off like that would only make you worry more, wouldn’t it?
You:
Then will you tell me about it?
Teddy:
Yes. Though… it really isn’t anything serious. Every once in a while… unpleasant memories from the past suddenly come back to me.
You:
Unpleasant memories…
Teddy:
Yes. And when that happens, I vividly remember the emotions I felt back then too… It kind of hits me all at once. Though if I take a few deep breaths, it usually passes pretty quickly.
You:
Are you really okay…?
Teddy:
Yes. Of course, it’s never a pleasant feeling… But it happens often enough. So I came up with my own way of dealing with it!
You:
Your own way…?
Teddy:
Instead of thinking, “This is awful…” I try to think, “Oh, here it comes again.” I can’t erase the past now anyway… and the only thing I can change is who I am in the present!
You:
That’s a very positive way of thinking
Teddy:
Yeah. Dwelling on the past only makes things more painful. All I can do now is make sure I don’t repeat the same mistakes… and use the past as a lesson.
…Sorry for talking about something so strange, Master. But… I wanted you to hear it. After all, you already saw the weakest side of me first…
Teddy:
And besides, between you and me now… this isn’t just some shallow relationship anymore. You’ve seen my weaknesses… and because of that… I want you to see the stronger person I’ve become too. As I spend more time serving you as your butler, Master… my desire to devote myself to you just keeps growing stronger…
You:
I’m cheering for you, Teddy
Teddy:
Hehe… thank you so much! Your support gives me more strength than anything else, Master! Oh, even though you came all this way, I haven’t even served you any tea yet. If you’d like, how about some coffee? I just managed to get my hands on some excellent beans.
You:
Then I’d love a cup
Teddy:
Certainly! Please, have a seat over here and wait just a moment.
With practiced movements, Teddy began preparing a fresh cup of coffee.
Every motion was incredibly refined…
almost like watching a professional barista at work.
Teddy:
Thank you for waiting! I prepared the milk and sugar just the way you like them, Master. And if you’d like, please enjoy these baked sweets alongside it.
You:
Thank you, as always
I slowly brought the coffee Teddy had brewed to my lips.
That single cup felt…
like the most delicious coffee I had ever tasted.
You:
This is really delicious, Teddy
Teddy:
Thank you very much! Hearing you say that makes me really happy. Hehe, when it comes to taking care of you, Master… I’ve become even more devoted to studying and improving than before. Training with the sword is important too, if I want to protect someone precious to me…
But just as important as that… making you smile is what gives my life meaning.
Saying that, Teddy turned a carefree smile toward me.
Compared to Teddy from earlier, the one taking deep breaths with such a pained expression…
He seemed like an entirely different person.
Or perhaps both sides…
were equally part of who he truly was.
Teddy:
…? Is something wrong, Master?
You:
Stay by my side forever, Teddy
Teddy:
……! Master…
…Yes! The pleasure is all mine, please continue to take care of me as well!
Some time had passed since Yuhan and the others became Demon Butlers…
I was wondering whether Yuhan had been getting along with the other butlers…
And went looking for him to talk.
When I asked the other butlers if they had seen him…
It seemed he was working in the garden.
Heading toward the garden…
I saw Haures and Yuhan repairing the fence.
Yuhan:
Haures-san. The fence repair is complete. Could you please take a look?
Haures:
Hm? Let’s see… Yeah, no problems here. And it’s a clean finish too. Yuhan is very diligent, and his work is meticulous. I’d even like the other butlers to take after him.
Yuhan:
No, no… Compared to everyone else, I am still inexperienced… At the very least, I must work harder than anyone else.
Haures:
Hmm… I suppose it’s this attitude of his as well that makes me want the others to learn from him…
Choices:
Good morning, you two
You’re working hard, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Oh, Master… Good morning. Apologies for my delayed greeting.
Haures:
Good morning, Master. It’s a pleasant morning, isn’t it?
You:
Yeah, it really is
The two of them exchanged greetings with very calm, gentle expressions.
Yuhan didn’t seem tense at all either…
It was clear he was getting along well with Haures.
Yuhan:
By the way… What brings you to the garden, Master?
You:
I heard Yuhan was here
Yuhan:
Oh? Me, Master?
You:
I was wondering if you’ve been getting along with the other butlers
Yuhan:
…My apologies, Master. It seems I’ve been causing you to worry…
You:
But I think I’m not worried anymore
Haures:
That’s right. Yuhan is getting along well with the other butlers… As for that point, I’m not worried about it either. He’s also proactive about helping with the other butlers’ work… He helped me out with mine as well, and it was a big help.
You:
As expected of you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
No, not at all… It’s still not enough to deserve praise from you, Master…
Lamli:
Heeey! Yu-chan~!
Yuhan:
…Oh dear?
You:
That voice is…
When we turned toward the voice…
We saw Lamli running over this way.
Lamli:
There you are~! Yu-chan! Ah, Master too! Good morning!
You:
Good morning, Lamli
Lamli:
Yay~! I got to see Master first thing in the morning! Today’s gonna be a super lucky day!
Haures:
Hey, Lamli… You’re in front of Master, so calm down a little.
Yuhan:
Lamli-san, did you need something from me?
Lamli:
Ah, right! That’s why I came! Hey, Yu-chan! You’ve been helping out with all kinds of jobs lately, right? Then help me with my work too! It can be after you’re done working with Hau-san!
Yuhan:
Yes, of course, I don’t mind at all. I’d be happy to help you.
Haures:
…Hey, Lamli. I’ll ask just in case… You’re not planning to make Yuhan do all the work while you slack off yourself… are you?
Lamli:
Hau-san… Are you trying to say I’m dumping my work on the new guy, Yu-chan?
Haures:
…No, sorry. You’re right, you wouldn’t do something like that…
Lamli:
Exactly! Even I wouldn’t go take a break all by myself or anything! If I’m gonna take a break… I’ll make sure to invite Yu-chan too!
Haures:
………
You:
(Haures is speechless…)
Haures:
Yuhan… we’re done here, so go help Lamli. And keep an eye on him so he doesn’t slack off.
Yuhan:
Um… understood.
Lamli:
Ehh~, Hau-san, that’s so mean~!
Haures:
Lamli, I’m not telling you to completely change your short attention span… But at least try to learn a little from Yuhan’s diligence.
Yuhan:
Well then, Lamli-san, shall we go?
Lamli:
Moo~! I still wanted to talk with Master more~!
Choices:
You two do your best, okay?
Take care
Yuhan:
Please excuse us, Master.
Tap… tap… tap…
Led along by Yuhan, Lamli walked back toward the mansion.
Haures:
Honestly… At this rate, you can’t even tell which one of them is supposed to be the senior anymore… Well, Yuhan is quite serious… Personally, I would like for Yuhan to... look at Lamli's behavior and learn to relax a little.
…Though if he ends up becoming like Lamli, that would be a problem in its own way.
You:
You’re worried about Yuhan, aren’t you?
Haures:
Yes. Because I don’t want Yuhan to push himself the way I did.
It seemed that Haures…
saw a bit of himself in the earnest Yuhan.
You:
...It is worrying
Haures:
Ah… My apologies for making you feel uneasy, Master. Including Yuhan, the butlers who recently joined us… the butlers of the main house will properly look after them. So please, Master, rest assured.
You:
…Alright
Even after saying that…
My worries didn’t completely disappear.
Would Yuhan really be able to…
go on without pushing himself too hard from now on…?
[Devil’s Palace Hallway]
Yuhan:
Now then… Shall I polish the windows next?
Lamli:
Haaah~. Cleaning is seriously such a pain…
Yuhan:
Lamli-san…?
Lamli:
Aah~ man, after finally getting to see Master… I wanted to talk with them a lot more~… Now I kinda wanna slack off and go back to Master already~. You think so too, right, Yu-chan?
Yuhan:
No… I have no intention of slacking off…
Lamli:
Hmm... true, I guess... it's a bit hard to imagine you ever slacking off, Yu-chan. Actually, Yu-chan... have you ever even thought about wanting to slack off from work in the first place?
Yuhan:
Of course not. Not even once. I have felt that I didn't want to do this work several times, but... the option of not doing it simply does not exist.
Lamli:
Whoa… Yuu-chan, you’re as serious as Hau-san… I know I should probably be more like that too…
Yuhan:
(So he is aware that he’s not serious-minded…)
Lamli:
I'm on cleaning duty, so my job is to clean, but... I still end up wanting to slack off~. Because more than cleaning… making Master smile is way more important!
Yuhan:
…Making Master smile, you say?
Lamli:
That's right! Talking with Master, eating sweets together… Making Master smile like that… That’s what matters most to me! Because I want Master… to stay happy forever! But… I still do my cleaning duties properly, okay? Because it’s work that Lucas-sama entrusted to me!
Yuhan:
Making Master… making one’s lord happy as a servant… I had never even considered such a thing before…
…That’s a very wonderful way of thinking.
Lamli:
Right, right~! Then Yu-chan, let’s go see Master right away! Let’s take a nice long break together, okay?
Yuhan:
That is not acceptable.
Lamli:
Eeh~!? Even after all that, it’s still a no!? Fine, I get it~! I'll actually do my cleaning today! I’ll go grab some new cleaning cloths, so… Yu-chan, keep cleaning while I’m gone, okay~!
Yuhan:
Yes, understood.
Thud thud thud…
Yuhan:
……
(Making Master smile, you say...)
Chapter 2
[Devil’s Palace Villa Butlers’ Room]
Teddy:
I see… You want to make Master smile, huh…
Yuhan:
Yes, even if I wanted to give Master a gift… I don’t really know what kinds of things are preferred in the Central Land… Besides, when it comes to a gift from a butler to a master... I have even less of an idea about that...
Teddy:
Hmm… I don’t think you need to think about it quite so seriously… Besides… I don’t think giving gifts is the only way to make Master smile, you know?
Yuhan:
…What do you mean by that?
Teddy:
Back when I was a soldier... I once took my subordinates out when we were on leave. Most of the time, we’d go to a nearby river or lake. Being out in nature, both my subordinates and I were able to refresh ourselves... I remember everyone had a smile on their face.
Yuhan:
Hmm, so in other words… rather than giving a gift, you mean making them happy by going out together?
Teddy:
Exactly!
Yuhan:
It certainly sounds like a good idea, but… would that really be alright? For a butler to invite Master out somewhere… And besides… even if I were to invite Master out… where exactly should I take them…?
……!
Teddy:
Looks like you already have somewhere in mind. Why not invite them out? If it’s Master, I’m sure they’d be happy about it!
Yuhan:
Teddy-san… Thank you very much. Truthfully… There's been a place I’ve wanted to show Master for quite some time.
[Central Land Deep in the Forest]
- A few days later -
Yuhan:
Master… Thank you for accepting my invitation.
You:
Thank you for inviting me
Invited by Yuhan, I went to the forest near the mansion.
Yuhan:
Today, I will be guiding you… to one of my favorite places.
You:
Your favorite place?
Yuhan:
Yes. It’s a place just beyond the forest. Though I’ll keep what kind of place it is a secret for now… I’m sure you’ll like it as well, Master.
Choices:
Alright
I’m looking forward to it!
Yuhan:
Well then, shall we be on our way? You mustn’t trip over the tree roots…
Please, take my hand.
You:
Y-Yeah
Though flustered, I gently took Yuhan’s hand.
Yuhan:
Well then, let us go.
- After a little while -
With Yuhan helping along the way, we spent several dozen minutes making our way through the forest.
Yuhan:
Master, we have arrived.
You:
This place is…
It was a clearing deep within the forest…
and nearby, a small waterfall sent sparkling sprays of water into the air.
And all around it…
The trees were blooming with countless tiny white flowers.
The petals, resembling cherry blossoms, drifted gently on the breeze…
fluttering softly to the ground in an almost poetic scene.
You:
What a beautiful view…
Yuhan:
It’s a grove of wild plum trees. Do you like it, Master?
Choices:
Yeah
Very much!
Yuhan:
Hehe… Seeing you happy makes me happy as well.
…Oh?
You:
What’s wrong?
As if he had noticed something…
Yuhan smiled softly and placed his index finger against his lips.
Chirp… chirp…
You:
(Ah, a bird is singing…)
The adorable chirping of birds echoed throughout the area.
Yuhan must have heard it too.
Keeping his finger to his lips, he narrowed his eyes with a gentle smile.
Yuhan’s smile was so calm and gentle…
that I couldn’t help but smile as well.
Yuhan:
Hehe… Master… you finally smiled for me.
You:
Huh?
Yuhan:
I wanted to make you smile, Master… I wanted you to feel even more happiness… Lately, I’ve found myself thinking that more and more. The reason I brought you here today as well… was because I wanted to see you smile. And… as one who serves you, Master… perhaps these are feelings I should not have… But when I am with you, Master… I feel incredibly at peace. That is why I… want you to spend your days feeling peaceful as well… I want you… to live calmly, with a smile on your face.
You:
Yuhan…
The smile Yuhan wore as he spoke was warm…
and it made it clear that he truly felt at peace.
Yuhan:
…Oh dear?
You:
What’s wrong?
Yuhan:
No… just now, one of the plum blossoms fell… and landed in your hair, Master. Master… Would it be alright if I removed it for you?
Choices:
Y-Yeah
Please do
Yuhan:
Then, excuse me.
Yuhan’s hand reached gently toward my hair.
His hand slowly brushed through my hair.
Yuhan’s touch was so gentle…
that I couldn’t help becoming a little nervous.
Yuhan:
…There, all done. Master, I’ve removed it safely.
Saying that, Yuhan showed the flower resting in his hand.
The flower was small and white… simple, yet very lovely.
You:
It’s cute
Yuhan:
Yes, truly. Well then, since we have the chance… shall we take this flower back to the mansion and make it into a pressed flower?
You:
A pressed flower?
Yuhan:
Yes. If we press the flower and turn it into something like a bookmark…
then whenever you see it, Master, you’ll be able to remember today. And if that bookmark catches your eye during busy moments… perhaps it may soothe your heart, even if only a little…
Saying that, Yuhan smiled gently once more.
He truly seemed to care deeply about me.
You:
Thank you, but…
Yuhan:
…What is it?
You:
I want to give the bookmark to you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Eh?
You:
Because I want you to feel comforted too, Yuhan
As Haures had mentioned before…
I worried that hardworking Yuhan might be pushing himself too much.
Choices:
Don’t overwork yourself
Don’t forget to take time to care for yourself
Yuhan:
Master… Thank you very much, Master. I will never forget what happened today. So next year, when the plum blossoms bloom again… Would you come back to this place with me once more?
You:
Of course!
Yuhan:
Hehe… I truly am fortunate. Because with such a wonderful Master, in such a wonderful place… I was able to create a memory shared by just the two of us…
One day, some time after Yuhan and the others became Demon Butlers...
As I was strolling through the mansion in the morning... I heard the voices of Yuhan and the others training in the garden.
Yuhan:
Now then… Here I come, Bastien-san.
Bastien:
Yeah… Come at me anytime, Yuhan.
Yuhan:
Bastien-san… I’ve seen your strength several times throughout our past battles. I don’t know how well my swordsmanship will hold up against you, but… As a fellow swordsman… I’ll face you with everything I’ve got.
Lono:
Show him what you’ve got, Yuhan! Don’t lose to Bastien!
It seemed Yuhan and Bastien were having a mock battle.
Even though it was only training…
A tense atmosphere hung between the two of them.
Yuhan:
Hah…!
Bastien:
!! Fast…!
Yuhan was the first to move.
Lowering his stance, he closed the distance in an instant…
Then unleashed attack after attack at a speed too fast for the eye to follow.
His graceful movements were as beautiful as a dance.
Yuhan:
Hah… hah… As expected of you, Bastien-san. To think you’d deflect every single one of my attacks…
Bastien:
I’m used to fighting opponents who overwhelm with sheer numbers of attacks, thanks to Lono. Now then… This time, I’m coming at you.
Yuhan:
Yes… No need to hold back, Bastien-san.
Lono:
Go, Yuhan! You can definitely win this!
For a while after that, the battle continued in a deadlock, with neither side gaining ground, but…
Yuhan, worn down from relentlessly attacking, exhausted his stamina first…
In the end, the match concluded with Bastien’s victory.
Yuhan:
Hah… hah… So in the end, I still couldn’t match you… I already knew that, but… The difference in our abilities is crystal clear.
Bastien:
No… That’s not true. After I blocked your first attack… The second time, you deliberately threw off your timing, didn’t you? Honestly, that caught me off guard. To think you could pull off something that skillful in the middle of a fight… I could never do something like that. It’s a natural talent of yours, Yuhan.
Yuhan:
Hehe… Hearing that from the very person who saw right through it only makes me lose confidence.
You:
You were both amazing!
Yuhan:
Master? Were you watching us…? You ended up seeing a rather unreliable side of me. My apologies.
Lono:
That’s not true at all. If it’s you, Yuhan, you’ll only get stronger with more training!
Yuhan:
Thank you. Of course, that’s exactly what I intend to do. I’m not the kind of person who can calmly accept nothing but defeat… Nor am I someone who gives up so easily.
Lono:
O-Oh… You’re surprisingly competitive, Yuhan.
Yuhan:
Yes. Was that surprising? Besides… I need to become even stronger… Otherwise, I won’t be able to protect the people precious to me.
You:
Yuhan…
Yuhan:
Oh… Come to think of it, Berrien-san called for me after this. Well then, Master. If you’ll excuse me, I’ll be going now.
Yuhan gave me a respectful bow, then headed back into the mansion.
Bastien:
……I’m worried. About Yuhan.
You:
Eh, why?
Bastien:
It’s something I realized after crossing swords with him… It feels like there’s no “composure” in his swordsmanship. Because I used to be the same way… I can tell somehow.
Lono:
Hmmm… Yeah, I guess it does kind of feel that way. He looks calm on the surface, but it’s like there’s this sense of impatience somewhere underneath… He only just became a Demon Butler… He’s probably got a lot on his mind… Yuhan also seems like the type who takes responsibility really seriously…
Bastien:
Yeah… that’s true. I just hope he doesn’t push himself too hard… And end up like I did…
You:
Like you, Bastien…?
As I listened to the two of them talk… I also began to worry about Yuhan.
After overcoming so many hardships, we’d finally become companions… I don’t want to lose Yuhan.
Thinking that, I began considering all sorts of ways to help him.
The following day…
I invited Yuhan out… And the two of us came to Espoir together.
You:
Alright, we’re here, Yuhan
[Central Land Espoir]
Yuhan:
Y-Yes… It would seem so, Master. However… Why did you choose only me to accompany you, Master…? Embarrassingly enough, I’m still not very familiar with the layout of Espoir, so… I’m not sure whether I’ll be able to guide you properly, Master…
You:
Today, I’ll be the one guiding you
Yuhan:
Eh…? Master, you’ll be guiding… me? Um… My apologies, Master. I’m a little confused… What exactly did you mean by that just now, Master?
You:
I thought it might help you relax a little
Yuhan:
For… my sake…?
…………I see…
You:
Could it be that this bothered you?
Yuhan:
No. Not at all. I was just… A little taken aback, that’s all. Being shown this kind of concern by the person I serve… It’s just not something I’ve ever experienced before.
You:
I want to become closer with you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Master… Thank you very much. Those words… truly make me happy. If I may be allowed as well… I want to become closer with you too, Master. That’s how I feel.
You:
Then let’s take a walk together
Yuhan:
Yes. As you wish, Master. Hehe… Actually, I’d been hoping to explore this town someday. I’m really looking forward to seeing what the culture of the Central Land is like.
Chapter 2
After that…
Yuhan and I spent some time walking around the city, and then…
We entered a café along the street and decided to take a break at the open terrace.
After ordering their food… Yuhan, seated beside me, quietly spoke up.
Yuhan:
My apologies, Master… For ending up seated together with you like this. Ordinarily, it would be unthinkable for a butler to sit together with their Master like this, but…
You:
I want to be together with you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Ah, Master… After you’ve gone so far as to say that… It would be rude of me to refuse, wouldn’t it? Your generous words… You have my gratitude, Master.
You:
I’m happy to be spending time with you
Yuhan:
I feel the same way as well. However… Let’s try not to draw too much attention to ourselves.
Choices:
Not draw attention to ourselves?
Why?
Yuhan:
Berrien-san instructed us… That while we’re in town, we should avoid standing out as butlers. If the people around us realize we’re devil butlers… It could end up causing unnecessary trouble, or so he said.
You:
Because there are people who say cruel things, right?
Yuhan:
I don’t mind if those things are directed at me, but… It would be terrible if anything happened to you, Master. If anything should happen, I will protect you… So please, rest assured.
You:
Thank you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Hmm… Even so… I never imagined I would end up sharing a meal with you, Master…
……I just hope I can do this properly.
You:
What do you mean?
Yuhan:
Y-Yes… Actually…
Server:
Thank you for waiting. Your seafood pizza and soup spaghetti are here.
Delicious-looking dishes were laid out across the table.
However, when I looked over at Yuhan…
Even with the food right in front of him, he still looked tense.
You:
Yuhan, is something wrong?
Yuhan:
Y-Yes… Actually… I… still haven’t finished my table manners training yet.
You:
Eh?
Yuhan:
Well… Back in the Eastern Land, we always used chopsticks. For example… Even this thing called soup spaghetti… When I was in the Eastern Land… I would’ve used chopsticks and slurped it up like soba noodles.
You:
I-I see…
Yuhan:
Yes… But now, I am your butler, Master. I must observe proper etiquette so I don’t bring shame upon you, Master. Umm… If I remember correctly, in a situation like this… You use the spoon and fork like this… Ah… It seems I’m holding them in the wrong hands. M-My apologies. Once again…
Saying that, Yuhan awkwardly began using the utensils.
It was so different from Yuhan’s usual composed demeanor…
That the sight of it was oddly endearing.
Yuhan:
Kh… This is surprisingly difficult. If I’d known it would be like this… I should’ve focused more on etiquette lessons too, not just sword training.
You:
You don’t have to be so tense, you know
Yuhan:
Y-Yes… My apologies, Master.
Drunk Man:
“Master”… you say?
At that moment…
A man walking down the street suddenly turned toward us.
Staring intently at my face…
He began walking toward us as if he’d realized something.
Drunk Man:
Hic… I thought your face looked familiar from somewhere… You’re that… So called “Master” of the Demon Butlers, aren’t you?
You:
U-Um…
Caught off guard by being suddenly addressed, I hesitated…
Then Yuhan stood up and stepped in front of the man.
Yuhan:
Stop right there. I will not permit any further disrespect toward my Master. If you have something to say… Then I shall hear it myself.
Drunk Man:
Hah? And who the hell are you…? Calling them “my Master” means… You’re one of those Demon Butlers too? Tch… Always walking around with butlers like a bunch of guard dogs… Without these guys around, you probably can’t even go anywhere on your own, huh!?
Yuhan:
…………
Silence, you wretch.
Drunk Man:
W-What…!?
You:
Y-Yuhan…?
At that moment, from Yuhan’s lips came…
A cold, intimidating voice unlike anything I had ever heard before.
With a sharp, piercing glare, he stared the man down.
Overwhelmed by Yuhan’s intense presence…
The man froze on the spot like a frog caught in a snake’s gaze.
Yuhan:
If your insults are directed at me, I can dismiss them as the drunken ramblings of a fool. However… I will not allow you to insult my Master. So that you’ll never again be able to speak such insolence…Shall I cut your head clean off?
Drunk Man:
H-Hiiih…!!
The moment Yuhan placed his hand on the hilt of his sword…
The man turned pale and fled as fast as he could.
After watching the man run off…
Yuhan returned to his usual gentle smile.
Yuhan:
Phew… My apologies, Master. Ordinarily, I would eliminate someone like that before they even had the chance to approach you… But now I am a Demon Butler… I cannot recklessly resort to violence and damage your reputation, Master. And in the end, I caused you discomfort instead, Master. Even though I was right there beside you… I deeply apologize.
Yuhan bowed his head deeply.
However, I was instead impressed…
By how much thought Yuhan had given to all of it.
To keep the situation from escalating, he had deliberately pretended to be angry in order to intimidate the man.
You:
I thought you were genuinely angry
Yuhan:
Eh? Well, yes…
You:
Oh? That’s not it?
Yuhan:
Well… If I were to tell you the truth… Even I’m not entirely sure… How much of that anger earlier was truly an act. To hear someone speak so badly about Master who brought me out into town for my sake… Before I knew it, I became emotional as well… And my threat carried more force than intended. The old me… Would never have become angry for the sake of a lord before…
Yuhan seemed confused by the emotions that had welled up inside him.
But for me…
The fact that Yuhan had gotten angry for my sake somehow made me happy.
You:
Maybe… we’ve become a little closer now?
Yuhan:
Master… Hehe… yes, perhaps we have. Each time I experience your kindness, Master… I find myself wanting to devote even more of myself to you… That’s how strongly I feel.
You:
But don’t push yourself with unreasonable training, okay?
Yuhan:
Yes. I understand. If that is what you wish, Master… I will never push myself too hard.
You:
Really?
Yuhan:
Of course. Because I am your butler, Master. If it is an order from my Master… I will obey without fail. Hehe… Even so… A Master who gives such a gentle order… You truly are a kind person. I’m truly glad that [Name]-sama is my Master…
You:
Aren’t you praising me a bit too much…?
Yuhan:
No. I am simply stating a fact. I would never tell a lie to you, Master. Because I am… your butler.
Some time after Yuhan and the others became Demon Butlers…
Having something to discuss with Yuhan, I wandered through the mansion searching for him.
???:
Hehe…
Then, the sound of voices could be heard coming from the library.
You:
This voice is…
[Devil’s Palace Library]
Yuhan:
Then, Lucas-san… What would you do if the enemy moved like this?
Lucas:
In that case… I’d reposition the forces we kept in reserve over here.
Yuhan:
I see… With this formation, there certainly doesn’t seem to be any opening in the center defense. The Demon Butlers aren’t just individually powerful in combat… your tactics are refined as well.
Lucas:
Well, of course. After all, it’s all for the sake of protecting our precious Master. Well now, Yuhan-kun’s quick understanding is truly impressive. Among all the people I’ve met, you’re easily one of the sharpest.
Yuhan:
I appreciate the compliment. However, I’m still inexperienced as a Demon Butler… I want to become someone who can support Master and everyone else as soon as possible.
Lucas:
Hehe…♪ I’m happy to have such a dependable companion.
Yuhan:
Then, Lucas-san. Would you mind doing another tactical exercise with me?
Lucas:
Mm. I don’t mind at all… But Yuhan-kun, aren’t you pushing yourself a little too hard? It looked like you were doing combat training just a little while ago as well… You seem a bit tired.
Yuhan:
No. Please don’t worry about me. If I stop to rest over something like this… I’ll never obtain the strength I seek.
Lucas:
Yuhan-kun…
The two of them seemed to be discussing tactics.
It seemed like a good stopping point in their conversation, so I decided to enter the room.
Click
Yuhan:
Oh, Master. Good afternoon.
You:
So this is where you were, Yuhan
Lucas:
Yuhan-kun and I were studying battle formations together.
You:
I see
Yuhan:
Yes. Lucas-san’s lessons are extremely informative. How to use the terrain to your advantage, and formations for protecting others without casualties and more… In the House of Sardis, the main strategy was to defeat the enemy even at the cost of sacrifices… so it was truly eye-opening for me.If only I had known about ways of fighting like this much sooner… If only I had known about ways of fighting like this much sooner… During the last expedition… Perhaps I could have avoided losing those precious subordinates of mine…
You:
Yuhan…
Lucas:
Hmm… I think we should stop here for today after all. We’ll continue another time, Yuhan-kun.
Yuhan:
Eh? But I still…
Lucas:
Sorry. I actually have some documents I need to sort through after this. I’ve been summoned by the Grovanes family, so I need to get everything organized quickly. Besides… doesn’t Master have something they wanted to discuss with Yuhan-kun?
Yuhan:
Hm? Is that true, Master?
You:
Y-Yeah…
Lucas:
Hehe… well then… Master, if you’ll excuse me now. Thank you for today, Yuhan-kun.
Yuhan:
Ah, no… I should be the one thanking you.
Click
After giving me a polite bow, Lucas returned to his room on the third floor.
Yuhan:
Lucas-san… It seems… he was being considerate of me. To be honest… the grief of losing my comrades still hasn’t fully healed. Talking about tactics earlier brought some of those memories back to me… He must have noticed that, and gave me some time to rest.
You:
I see…
Yuhan had only recently lost people who were precious to him…
Normally, he acted composed and unwavering…
but it was only natural that his grief had not yet healed.
You:
(Could I do something to cheer him up…?)
- That night -
Rather than trying to think of something alone…
I figured it would be more effective to come up with ideas together with someone else…
I invited Lono and Bastien, who both seemed close to Yuhan, to my room.
You:
Sorry for suddenly calling you both over
Lono:
There’s no need to apologize, Master. We’re butlers, after all. If Master calls for us, we’ll go anywhere.
Bastien:
If anything, I’m happy to see Master.
You:
Thank you, both of you
Bastien:
So, what did you want to consult us about?
You:
Actually…
I told the two of them about what had happened earlier today, and…
I explained that I wanted to cheer Yuhan up.
Lono:
I see… so that’s what this is about.
Bastien:
Cheering Yuhan up, huh… So basically, we just need to make Yuhan smile.
You:
That’s right
Bastien:
Then how about preparing Yuhan’s favorite food?
You:
His favorite food…?
Bastien:
Yeah. When you eat something you like, it makes you feel happier, doesn’t it?
Lono:
That’s such a you way of thinking, seriously. But… it’s actually not a bad idea, is it? Yuhan’s the type who eats pretty well, too. I’m sure he’d be happy about it. If I remember right, what Yuhan likes is… It was a “steamed bean paste bun”!
Bastien:
Hm? How do you know Yuhan’s favorite food?
Lono:
I asked him a while ago, actually. I'm the cook, you know? I like to keep track of what my teammates enjoy eating!
Bastien:
I see.
Lono:
Master. If this works for you, Bastien and I can prepare the food…
You:
You’ll help me?
Lono:
Of course we will.
You:
Can I help too?
Lono:
Of course. If it’s handmade by Master, Yuhan will be even happier!
Bastien:
Hmm… It’s already late tonight, so we’ll do it tomorrow.
You:
Yeah
Bastien:
Then, Master. Get some good rest tonight.
Lono:
Good night, Master.
You:
Good night, both of you
- The next morning -
I made steamed buns together with Lono and Bastien.
With both of their help, the result turned out to be a flavor we were all satisfied with.
After that…
We met in the dining hall to coordinate the plan for having Yuhan try it…
[Devil’s Palace Villa Butlers’ Room]
Yuhan:
Oh? Good afternoon, Master.
You:
Yuhan, do you have a moment?
Yuhan:
Yes. Of course, I’m available. There is nothing I would prioritize over you, Master.
You:
Would you come with me?
Yuhan:
Eh… Master? I don’t mind, but… where are we going?
You:
It’s fine, it’s fine
Yuhan:
Y-Yes… Understood.
With Yuhan, who looked a bit suspicious, I headed down to the first floor.
Tap… tap…
[Devil’s Palace Dining Hall]
Yuhan:
This is… the dining hall, isn’t it. But, Master. What are we doing here?
You:
Please, have a seat
I pulled out a chair and gestured for Yuhan to sit down.
However, seeing that, Yuhan was startled…
and instead took a step back.
Yuhan:
Ah, Master…? You don’t have to do something like that… How terribly unworthy I am… for someone of my position to have a chair pulled out for me… As a butler, I cannot allow you to go that far for me. If you insist that I sit… I would be fine even in a corner of the room.
You:
Th-the corner of the room…?
Yuhan moved toward the corner of the room… and began to kneel in seiza position, but I hurriedly stopped him.
After that, I managed to calm him down and finally got him to sit in a chair in the dining hall.
Yuhan:
Hmm… This is quite a strange feeling. Until now… I have lived according to “loyalty between ruler and subject” and “respect for age and rank.” So this way… being treated so kindly by someone above me, might be the first time.
You:
You can be more relaxed
Yuhan:
Relaxed… you say. Hmm… It’s a word I haven’t had much connection with for a long time…
Tap… tap…
Lono:
Sorry to keep you waiting, Master!
Bastien:
Yuhan, we’ve been waiting for you.
Yuhan:
Oh? Lono-san, Bastien-san. What’s on those plates… could it be…?
Lono:
Heh. You’ve seen this dish before, right, Yuhan? This is… steamed bean paste bun that Master made for you, Yuhan.
Yuhan:
Master… for me…?
Chapter 2
[Devil’s Palace Dining Hall]
Yuhan:
Did you… make these steamed buns for me, Master?
You:
Yes
Bastien:
Master was worried about you, Yuhan. Even though you haven’t been a Demon Butler for very long… You’ve been given all kinds of duties… and you still have to train and study to be a butler. In that state… we thought you might not even have had time to sort out your feelings…
Yuhan:
That is…
You:
I don’t want Yuhan to push himself
Yuhan:
Master…
Bastien:
And… When your environment changes, stress increases too. From what I can see… you’ve seemed a bit tired lately, Yuhan.
Yuhan:
Bastien-san…
Lono:
So we thought, even a little, we could help cheer you up, Yuhan… Master came to us for advice… so we decided to make your favorite food, Yuhan.
Of course, something like this wouldn’t be enough to heal Yuhan’s sorrow…
However, to heal sorrow, what matters is the accumulation of small joys in everyday life.
You:
I just hope it helps you feel a bit better
Yuhan:
Master…
Bastien:
Hmph… so, what do you think, Yuhan? Our Master is a kind person, right?
Lono:
Hey, why are you the one looking proud about it? Well… I kinda get why you’d feel like saying that, though.
You:
Now, eat before it gets cold
Yuhan:
Yes… I humbly receive this. Steamed buns that you made, Master…
Yuhan smiled softly and took a bite of the steamed bun.
Yuhan:
Hehe… It’s delicious…
You:
I’m glad
Yuhan:
It’s more delicious than any steamed buns I’ve ever had before. Thank you very much, Master.
You:
We made a lot of them, so please eat
Yuhan:
Yes.
As Yuhan bit into the warm bun, his expression…
was one of happiness unlike anything I and the others had ever seen from him before.
- A few days later -
As I was walking down the hallway… I heard a familiar voice coming from the library.
It seemed that Yuhan and Lucas were once again holding a study session on tactics.
Yuhan:
Then, Lucas-san… how about this formation? We intentionally make it look like there’s a weak point… and then counterattack once the enemy takes the bait.
Lucas:
I see… That’s certainly a valid approach. Now that the Intelligent Angels have appeared… formations that involve deceiving the opponent may become necessary from here on out. As expected, Yuhan-kun. It makes sense you were an excellent soldier.
Yuhan:
Not at all. I only took inspiration from Lucas-san’s formations. Whether it can be used in actual combat… we should refine it through training from here on.
Click
You:
You’re both working hard
Yuhan:
Well, well… Master.
Lucas:
Heh… I was just getting a new formation idea from Yuhan-kun. That’s some impressive tactical insight, Yuhan-kun♪
Yuhan:
Thank you very much for your kind words.
Lucas:
Even so… Yuhan. What happened over these past few days? It’s like the atmosphere around you has lightened up a little… It feels like your confidence has returned a little…
Yuhan:
Lucas-san… you really are quite perceptive. Hehe… You’re absolutely right. Something truly wonderful happened. “I’m glad I was able to serve this person…”, “And I want to be of even more help to them…” That is what I came to feel once again. To an outsider, it may not seem like a significant event… But for me… it was more than enough to renew my loyalty to you, Master. Master. You saved my life. Not only that… you’ve shown me far more kindness than I deserve. I will never forget this kindness. I will protect you with my life. Master.
You:
Yuhan…
Yuhan’s words were very polite and calm…
They felt like they were spoken completely from the bottom of his heart… as if he truly meant every word without hesitation.
For a moment, it even felt like Yuhan might truly be willing to throw his own life away…
That thought crossed my mind.
Choices:
Please don’t push yourself
Take care of yourself too
Yuhan:
…! Master…
Even if it’s for my sake… I don’t want Yuhan to get hurt.
I said it as gently and calmly as I could.
You:
Because I care about Yuhan too
Yuhan:
Master…
…How strange. Even my former lord… I was told many times that I was “important” to them, and yet… I had never felt anything like this before. I was only acknowledged as a “useful tool”… And somewhere in my heart, I always understood that…
You:
Yuhan…
Yuhan:
But… It's different now. You treat me not as a tool… but as a human being. I understand now. I… For the first time… I feel like I want to serve this person. Not because I am forced by anyone… but because I chose you, Master…
You:
Thank you, Yuhan
Yuhan:
Hehe… I truly am glad that you are my Master. Serving a kind Master like you is my true joy… Please, allow me to stay by your side from now on as well. My precious Master…
For some reason, from the direction of the garden…
the smell of freshly cooked rice was drifting through the air.
You:
Why does it smell like rice…?
Curious about where the smell was coming from, I stepped out into the garden…
It seemed Yuhan was cooking rice using a mess tin.
You:
So it was Yuhan cooking rice
Yuhan:
Well, well, Master. Hehe… Even though the lid of the mess tin is closed, you could still tell I was cooking rice… As expected of Master. You’re quite knowledgeable about Eastern culture. I managed to get some delicious rice from the Eastern Lands… and I wanted Master to have a taste of it. So, since I’m used to handling rice, I decided to cook it myself.
You:
But why out in the garden…?
Yuhan:
Yes. I could have cooked it in the kitchen using an earthenware pot… But for me… I’m more accustomed to cooking outdoors like this. Back when I was in the military… whether or not you could cook good rice affected the morale of the entire unit.
You:
I see…
Yuhan:
Hehe. Ever since becoming a butler of this mansion, there have been many times when I was bewildered by unfamiliar cultures, however… The fact that Master had already grown accustomed to the customs of the Eastern Lands… was an unexpected delight. And not only regarding Master… There were times I discovered unexpected sides of myself as well.
You:
An unexpected side of Yuhan?
Yuhan:
Yes. For example… the way I came to view my own sense of loyalty. Before becoming Master’s butler… I lost everything. When the things I had believed in and held dear were taken from me… this is what I thought. No matter what happens from now on, I probably will never trust anyone again… nor devote myself to another person. Hehe… That expectation was quickly overturned, though. If anything, you could say an even stronger conviction was born within me than before. Not merely loyalty toward one’s parents or liege… but something else entirely…
Yuhan:
…If possible… I wish I had realized these feelings much sooner… If I had, then perhaps…
As he said that, Yuhan quietly gazed toward the Eastern sky.
Beyond that distant look…
Perhaps he was picturing the homeland that no longer exists.
You:
Yuhan…
Yuhan:
…My apologies. I became a little sentimental. I left many things behind over there. My past, my memories, even my regrets… There were so many people I wanted to speak with more… but never had the chance to. At the very least, I want to live without regrets for their sake as well… To spend time with the people dear to me… and talk together about many things. To pass my days in such happiness… that, at the very least, would serve as a tribute to the people of my homeland…
Yuhan:
…It is also the wish I hold most deeply in my heart. So… Thank you, Master. Because Master stays by my side… I’m able to live the life I truly wished for. Please, from now on as well… allow me to remain by your side. Being beside Master is my joy… and living for Master is my conviction…
You:
Of course
Yuhan:
Hehe… thank you.
…Now then. It seems the rice is finally done cooking. Mm… It turned out perfectly. Each grain is firm and distinct… just the texture Master prefers.
As Yuhan peered into the mess tin, he wore an incredibly happy expression.
Watching that expression, me too…
felt that the emotions within my heart had become something deeper than simple affection.
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