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Chapter Text

Subaru could once say, without hesitation, that he hated Julius Juukulius.

Their first encounter had left a scar on his heart that would never fade. That man—the perfect knight in everyone's eyes—had dared to press his lips against Emilia-tan hand. Though Subaru knew it was a gesture of knightly decorum, steeped in tradition, his heart had burned with jealousy and indignation.

And then there was his appearance—unreasonably handsome. Lavender hair and amber eyes that gleamed like priceless gemstones.

Not to mention his infuriatingly smug demeanor, his noble poise, and the way he carried himself like some highborn aristocrat deigning to walk among mere mortals. Everything about him grated on Subaru's nerves so much that, on more than one occasion, he had to fight the urge to lunge at the man and bite him out of sheer frustration.

But it all came to a boiling point during their duel. Subaru, armed with nothing but foolish confidence, stood face-to-face with the most skilled knight of the Dragon Kingdom. The result? Julius beat him into a pulp, leaving him in a state far more pathetic than a rag tossed in the gutter.

Back then, Subaru had been like a frog living its whole life under a coconut shell, deluded into thinking himself grander than he truly was.

A childish dreamer, too naïve to acknowledge just how small he was in the grand scheme of reality.

He had been forced to confront his inadequacy, paying the price with the last shred of dignity he had.

Was it worth it? That was hard to say.

And yet... over time, everything began to change, little by little.

Through countless brushes with life and death.
Through repeated failures that taught him hard truths and shaped who he had become.
Through letting go of staring down an endless staircase of ambitions and instead taking the time to look around him.

Subaru finally found himself able to see Julius clearly—through a lens he had stubbornly refused to acknowledge before.

Yes—Julius Juukulius was a knight of unmatched skill, far stronger than Subaru could ever hope to be. He was someone Subaru could never rival, no matter how much he dedicated his life to training as a knight.

As much as he hated to admit it, Subaru's flawed and painfully self-aware self understood better than anyone: to reach such heights, this knight must have endured grueling hardships, pushing himself beyond limits.

Through sheer perseverance and an unyielding refusal to compromise with himself, this young man—like a sapling that had grown tall and proud—stood with unwavering dignity, deserving every bit of pride in his title as a knight.

Truly befitting the title of "the best"—a stark contrast to Subaru, who could only manage to be a pitiful fool struggling in vain.

When he finally realized this and summoned the courage to apologize, it was astonishing to see that the seemingly arrogant knight also acknowledged his own faults. Julius admitted that, once upon a time, he had looked down on Subaru in a way he shouldn't have. And from that moment on, Julius transformed from "the smug bastard" Subaru had despised into "someone worthy of respect" in his eyes.

“It’s an honor to see you again. I trust you haven’t caused any trouble somewhere, have you, Subaru?”

Strangely, the verbal sparring with this knight had somehow become... fun. Sometimes, those little arguments or the playful jabs Julius threw at him made Subaru's exhausting life feel a little brighter without him even realizing it.

“Well, isn’t that just the most charming greeting ever, Your Perfect Manners. And didn’t you say you’ve been traveling non-stop for days? What’s with that flawless, head-to-toe pristine look, huh?”

“At least I’m relieved. Judging by your quick wit, you seem to be doing just fine. Thank you for the compliment, by the way. Even in a rush, I wouldn’t neglect taking care of myself.”

“That wasn’t a compliment, damn it—ugh, seriously. I can’t stand you.”

A friend, a rival, and something entirely unexpected all rolled into one. Subaru couldn’t quite put a name to their relationship, but he knew one thing: every time Julius was near, his world felt more alive. Even if he still loudly declared his hatred, those words seemed to carry an odd warmth each time they slipped from his lips.

“So infuriating.”

But it was a kind of infuriation laced with affection.

Lately, Subaru had noticed Julius’s tendency to offer unnecessary opinions on everything, big or small. Those captivating eyes and faint, charming smiles always made Subaru itch to pick a fight. Yet deep down, he knew it wasn’t mockery or disdain—it was simply the kind of teasing that only someone who truly cared would dare to do.

The truth that this honorable knight had always been there for him… it only made Subaru see more of what he had overlooked with each passing day.

Julius respected him, even on the days Subaru couldn’t respect himself—when he stumbled, when he felt misunderstood and utterly worthless. This man still stood by his side, offering soft-spoken words that calmed his storms. Honest reassurances to steady him, or stern reprimands to pull him back from the edge—everything spoken with a sincerity that shone through those amber eyes.

Subaru could still remember it vividly…

In one loop—a loop where he had been possessed by Petelgeuse Romanee-Conti, the Archbishop of Sloth—he had lost control of his body. No matter how desperately he begged and pleaded to be killed, to stop the carnage before he could hurt the ones he loved even more, the noble knight standing before him could not bring himself to do it.

He remembered those amber eyes, clouded with a confusion and pain so profound it resembled a child being forced to choose between their mother and father as their family fell apart. The anguish etched onto Julius's lips, trembling as they formed his name, calling out again and again, as though trying to pull him out of the nightmare swallowing him whole.

That voice—shaking as if on the verge of tears—was yet strong enough to make Subaru’s heart quake.

In the end… when that blade finally struck, and pain coursed through a body that was no longer his, what Subaru saw was Julius’s face, carved with sorrow as if the same blade had sliced through him.

In those haunting memories… every time Subaru looked back, he couldn’t stop the question from surfacing again and again:

“Am I selfish?”

He had asked this once, his voice trembling on a day when he was at his weakest—a day when he couldn’t understand why this knight continued to look at him with such warmth in his gaze.

But Julius smiled—a smile devoid of mockery, brimming instead with a gentle warmth, like the glow of a hearth melting away the layers of worry buried deep within Subaru’s heart.

“Sometimes, yes,” Julius answered honestly, his words almost enough to make Subaru—on the verge of tears—burst out in frustration. Yet before that could happen, the young man with dawn-colored eyes spoke again, his voice soft and tender.

“But I’ve never regretted knowing you, Subaru.”

Those words felt like a key unlocking Subaru’s heart… like a tightly wound knot he hadn’t realized he’d tied was slowly being loosened. It was a feeling both warming and painful—warming because someone still accepted him, and painful because he’d caused that person so much suffering.

“Thank you. And… I’m sorry.”

Sorry for his stubbornness.

Sorry for the burden he had caused.

Sorry for forcing Julius to raise his blade against him that day.

But above all, Subaru was grateful—grateful that the man standing before him had chosen to stay by his side.

Even though he could still say “I hate you” out loud without hesitation, deep down, Subaru knew that those words were just a mask—an imperfect shield for emotions he couldn’t fully express. And perhaps “thank you” or “I’m sorry” would never be enough to repay everything Julius had given to someone as flawed as him.

Julius Juukulius—the kind knight who always hid his care behind sharp words and a biting tongue.

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“This is such a small matter! Why are you being so picky about it?”

Subaru stood with his arms crossed, frowning in frustration, while his opponent stood on the other side of the room with a regal composure, as if about to deliver an important speech. The two faced off in the center of the lounge, neither willing to back down. Their eyes sparkled with equal stubbornness.

“I’m serious, Julius. You’re being way too uptight about this! It’s just a little honey in the tea—why does it even matter?”

Julius raised an eyebrow, his demeanor that of a refined gentleman who refused to be easily swayed. He lifted a hand to his chin, tilting his head slightly.

“Uptight, you say? I merely pointed out that good tea shouldn’t have more than a teaspoon of honey. Yet you poured in… half the bottle, didn’t you?”

“And what’s wrong with that? I like it this way! Life needs a bit of sweetness sometimes!” Subaru retorted fiercely, holding up his cup of tea like it was evidence in a courtroom battle.

“You’re such a nitpicker! Even about food, you have to act like the perfect knight, don’t you?”

“Oh? That’s hardly fair, Subaru,” Julius replied, his tone calm yet laced with amusement. “You ought to be thanking me for introducing you to the proper etiquette of tea drinking—”

“Thanking you? For what, exactly?” Subaru scoffed, his voice sharp with irritation. “I’m not some noble! I don’t need to know how tea is ‘supposed’ to be served. I just wanted something sweet after a long, exhausting day of work! Is that so wrong?”

“Mind your tone,” Julius chided, though a trace of amusement lingered in his expression as he approached the sulking young man.

“And for the record… I never said you were wrong.”

“Huh?” Subaru froze, caught off guard. The taller knight leaned down slightly, his amber eyes locking onto Subaru’s with such intensity that he felt as if he couldn’t move.

“W-What?” Subaru stammered, his gaze darting away in embarrassment, but the reaction only brought a faint smile to Julius’s lips.

“I only meant that if you used less honey, you might appreciate the true flavor of the tea. And besides… eating too many sweets isn’t good for your health.”

Subaru’s cheeks flushed instantly, and he turned his head away. “Wha—That’s it? That’s why you made such a big deal out of it?”

“Yes,” Julius replied calmly, his voice soft but firm. “Because when it comes to you, I always take things seriously. It’s never ‘just a small matter.’”

“Ugh! Fine, fine! Just stop leaning in so close already!” Subaru snapped, leaning back and pointing an accusing finger at the knight, knowing full well he couldn’t win against that charming, ever-so-perfect smile.

Julius chuckled quietly, unbothered, and reached out to brush a strand of Subaru’s midnight-blue hair. His touch was as gentle as if he were handling delicate porcelain, but even so, Subaru flinched, stepping back like he’d encountered something dangerous.

“No need to be so flustered,” Julius said, his tone teasing but kind. “I just want to take care of you as best I can, that’s all.”

“Idiot…” Subaru muttered under his breath, swatting Julius’s hand away with a pout before retreating to the other side of the room. He cast a glare back over his shoulder.

“I’ll let this slide for now! But next time you lecture me again, I swear I’ll dump an entire bottle of honey into your tea!”

Such a delightful threat.

“Go ahead and try, if you think you can,” Julius replied with a soft laugh, his voice carrying a playful challenge that sounded more like an invitation.

The atmosphere in the room was filled with warmth and laughter, the kind that lingered and spread to every corner. Neither of them would ever concede to the other, yet both knew that this was a special bond—one born from small quarrels but overflowing with a care sweeter than any honey.

end....

Chapter Text

Reinhard van Astrea—a name as perfect as any human could possess.

A name that embodied strength, power, and expectation. A figure admired and feared in equal measure.

When Subaru first laid eyes on Reinhard, it felt like staring at an insurmountable mountain—unshakable, flawless in every way. Whether it was his skills, his character, or his unwavering sense of justice and kindness, Reinhard seemed to have no shortcomings.

He seemed to possess everything Subaru longed for—talent, respect from others, and recognition as someone significant in the world.

At one point, Subaru had even been among those who carelessly called Reinhard a "monster," just like the others who couldn’t comprehend his boundless, otherworldly strength. Yet those unthinking words had elicited an unexpectedly heartfelt and somber response from the strongest man alive.

“Even I… feel hurt when I’m called that.”

At first, Subaru thought it was just the humility of a knight who stood above all others. But as they spent more time together, Subaru came to realize that Reinhard truly felt “hurt” by being called a “monster.”

What if, to the man considered the strongest in his family, in history, or even in the world, those words weren’t a reflection of his greatness?

What if they were a brand—a reminder of how far removed he was from the people around him?

A hero born to be a hero. That was the role Reinhard van Astrea had to play, whether he wanted to or not. Whether his celebrated strength and perfection became a shackle, a piercing spear entrusted with upholding the world’s order at any cost, this was a fate he could never escape.

Though he was born beloved by the world and granted countless blessings, the world itself seemed to reject those who surrounded him. The chasm between “him” and “them” was so vast that no bridge could span it—a loneliness too profound to be put into words.

Can a person’s back look so lonesome?

The moment that thought crossed his mind, Subaru stopped envying Reinhard. Though Reinhard remained unparalleled, Subaru could now see him as a fellow traveler burdened with a heavy load, just as he was.

He was both the unyielding divine sword and a young man of the same age, with his own moments of awkwardness, occasional social missteps, and an endearing innocence that could sometimes be downright laughable.

The paths we walk may be blurry and winding, yet they gradually become clearer the further we go.

Reinhard, the ever-radiant knight, burned like an unwavering light. His sky-blue eyes always looked forward, steadfast and resolute. The warmth and security radiating from his determined gaze, paired with a face so perfectly crafted it seemed divine, never failed to captivate Subaru’s attention.

And what Subaru liked most was those rare moments when Reinhard’s eyes turned to meet his, accompanied by a soft, tender smile and simple, reassuring words:

“I’m here. There’s nothing to worry about anymore.”

It was something Subaru both loved and found frustrating at the same time. It felt like an indirect declaration that Reinhard would always be ready to protect everyone in any situation, and Subaru didn’t want him to carry that burden all the time. So, in response, Subaru would call out to the world’s strongest knight with as much confidence as he could muster, flashing a wide grin in return.

“Don’t worry. If you can’t handle it, I’ll back you up!”

Their relationship began with mutual reliance—a bond that developed quietly and simply over time.

Subaru found joy in watching Reinhard’s confused expressions whenever he used bizarre phrases from his old world. The so-called “strange words” often left Reinhard perplexed, and even Subaru couldn’t help but laugh at his reactions. Reinhard, the indomitable Divine Sword, known for his skill, wit, and unrelenting self-improvement, had moments where he would pause, trying to make sense of Subaru’s awkward jokes.

It was one of the things that made Reinhard feel not so out of reach after all.

Subaru’s proudly crafted jokes, built from years of experience in his old world, didn’t always elicit laughter right away. Still, they often eased the atmosphere around the red-haired knight, even if just a little.

Of course, there were times when Reinhard didn’t understand a joke at first, but he would always look up with curious eyes, asking for an explanation. And when Subaru clarified, Reinhard would give a faint smile and respond in that warm voice of his, as if he’d just discovered another delightful piece of the world.

“Reinhard, who kindly indulges my nonsense—that’s my favorite thing about you.”

When Subaru blurted that out without thinking, instead of receiving Reinhard’s usual gentle smile and modest reply, the knight’s face froze, his cheeks gradually turning a faint shade of red.

Just like his striking hair color… No, wait—what had Subaru just said? Why did he let such an embarrassing thing slip out so easily?

“S-Sorry! If that made you uncomfortable, just forget I said it! Pretend it was—”

“I feel the same.”

“…What?”

“It’s always so much fun with you around, Subaru… Would you mind staying here by my side a little longer?”

Reinhard van Astrea truly was a man who could win at everything—effortlessly.

How could anyone refuse when faced with such a pleading gaze? Once again, Subaru found himself utterly defeated.

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On a day when rain fell as if it were the world’s last, we traveled in a ground dragon carriage along a winding path skirting the edge of a shadowy forest. The sound of raindrops striking the roof blended harmoniously with the silence as Subaru stared absentmindedly out of the rain-streaked window. He barely noticed that Reinhard was watching him from across the carriage.

“Subaru…”

The familiar, deep voice spoke his name softly, yet clearly enough to draw him out of his reverie.

Subaru turned back to meet the gaze of those brilliant sky-blue eyes, only to find himself momentarily frozen. Their usual confidence and gentleness had dimmed, replaced by a somber glint that was impossible to ignore. It was the look of someone carrying a heavy burden, bracing themselves for a painful response.

“Would you… hold my hand?”

The simplicity of the request hit Subaru like a punch to the gut.

To most, it might have seemed like an ordinary plea. But for Reinhard, a man who had never asked for anything from anyone, the outstretched hand before Subaru carried a meaning far deeper than words could convey—a pure, childlike vulnerability that was almost overwhelming.

Without a second thought, Subaru reached out, his hand cold and calloused from harsh training, yet it was enveloped by the gentle warmth radiating from the glove Reinhard always wore. Even through the barrier of fabric, the connection sent a wave of warmth surging through Reinhard, quickening his heartbeat.

The knight didn’t say anything further, but the soft smile that spread across his face spoke volumes. It was a smile that told Subaru how much that small gesture of acceptance meant.

Subaru shifted to sit beside Reinhard, joining him on the same side of the carriage. The sound of relentless rain became a mere backdrop to the quiet calm between them. The carriage swayed gently over the slick road, but the atmosphere inside remained serene. Amid the damp chill of the rain-soaked air, Subaru felt an unmistakable warmth radiating from the hand clasped in his.

It wasn’t just physical warmth; it reached his heart as well. The rain outside and the silence within seemed to merge into a tranquil world all their own. Subaru said nothing more, and Reinhard didn’t break the moment either. Their joined hands were a wordless promise.

They held on until they reached their destination. Subaru couldn’t forget those eyes—filled with such fragile kindness, accompanied by a radiant smile that seemed to dispel even the darkest clouds.

It wasn’t just a smile. It was a silent declaration that whispered, “You are important,” without ever needing to say a word. In the cramped carriage, a bond was etched deep into Subaru’s heart, one that would remain forever.

No matter what happened, no matter how overwhelming the hardships ahead, Subaru resolved to stand beside Reinhard. He would no longer be content to merely watch the man’s back from afar.

In that moment, a vow crystallized in his mind.

The hand he had grasped would never be let go, and the eyes that met his would never again have to dim with sorrow as long as he drew breath.

Natsuki Subaru would be the one to protect the strongest man in the world.

end....

Chapter Text

Subaru was always sensitive when it came to matters of love.

Though he could say the word “love” to Emilia or Beatrice without hesitation, the feelings that surfaced when faced with the two most extraordinary knights of Lugunica were entirely different.

It was a sensation akin to clouds drifting lazily in his chest, mixed with the sweetness on the tip of his tongue and a lingering unease in the pit of his stomach. He wasn’t used to being cared for, and the warmth they offered made him more nervous than comforted. Every time the gentle sky-blue of Reinhard’s gaze or the warm dawn of Julius’s eyes met his own, his heart would pound as if he’d just sprinted up a mountain ten times in a row.

Because of this, physical gestures or sweet words were rare, and Subaru almost never initiated them himself.

But today might just be an exception.

“Hey, Reinhard… Do you love me?” Subaru asked, his voice trembling as he clung to the knight’s collar so tightly it was nearly crumpled.

The one enduring this assault on his clothing didn’t offer any complaints. Instead, he kept his strong arms securely around Subaru, holding him close. He paused for a fleeting moment, meeting Subaru’s gaze. His face, normally so composed, betrayed a flicker of surprise before his lips curved into a tender smile, soft as the first light of dawn.

“What makes you ask that all of a sudden?” he replied in a gentle voice tinged with curiosity.

“Just answer me! Don’t play coy!”

Reinhard chuckled quietly at Subaru’s impatient demand, tightening his embrace slightly as if to reassure him. “Of course I do. I love you more than anything.”

The words were so perfect, like a scene from a romance novel, complete with the imagery of blooming flowers in the background.

It would have been utterly swoon-worthy—if the two of them weren’t currently suspended in mid-air, with Subaru’s life hanging by the thread that was Reinhard’s arms.

“Then don’t you dare let go!” Subaru blurted, gripping Reinhard’s collar even tighter, his face pale as he avoided looking down at the sprawling cityscape far below them.

He had told himself before that he wasn’t particularly afraid of heights, but today… today, he might have to reconsider.

Even though Subaru knew full well that the powerful knight holding him would never let him fall to a gruesome death, his survival instincts were kicking in full force. His legs felt weak, and his breathing was shallow.

“Don’t you dare let go! Not even if your head gets chopped off, the world collapses, or the sky falls down—don’t you let go!”

Reinhard’s sky-blue eyes blinked down at the panicked man in his arms, processing the frantic plea. He glanced at the tips of his boots, which were currently hovering above the city’s towering rooftops. “I wouldn’t let go, Subaru. You don’t have to be so scared—”

“Who wouldn’t be scared?! You’re hopping from roof to roof like some kind of ninja while carrying a living, breathing person! What if you slip on a banana peel or something?!”

Reinhard chuckled softly, landing gracefully on the peak of another roof, his coat billowing elegantly behind him. “A banana peel? I’m not sure what that is, but I assure you, I won’t slip. One of my blessings grants me perfect balance.”

It was that maddening mix of humility and confidence that made Subaru want to pull his hair out. He knew all too well how capable the Divine Sword was, but the issue wasn’t Reinhard’s skill—it was his utter lack of understanding of normal, everyday fears.

“The problem isn’t whether or not you’ll drop me! It’s the way you’re traveling—it’s terrifying! My delicate heart can’t handle this!”

Subaru shouted at the top of his lungs as his body lifted into the air again with Reinhard’s next leap. His face had gone pale, and he was trembling, but to Reinhard, he just looked… adorable.

“This is the fastest way, though. Besides… I didn’t want to make you pass out.”

“And why was knocking me unconscious your first solution, huh?! Like a normal person, you could’ve just changed how we’re traveling!” Subaru nearly screamed into the knight’s ear but ended up biting back his frustration when he saw that soft, gentle smile of Reinhard’s.

Damn it. He had such a weak spot for handsome faces.

Reinhard laughed quietly, as he often did, before speaking in his calm, even tone. “We’re almost there. Just hang on a little longer, Subaru.”

“No! I want to get down! Stop! Wait! Reinhard—”

Before Subaru could finish his sentence, Reinhard leapt again, this time higher than ever before. The cold wind rushed past his face, and the sound of his small, fragile heart plummeted all the way to his stomach.

“ARGHHH! I don’t love you anymore, you crazy mutt! REINHARD!”

“But I love you, Subaru,” Reinhard replied nonchalantly, tightening his hold as if to ensure Subaru’s safety, all while wearing that impossibly bright, radiant smile.

“WAAAGHHHHHHHHHHHH!!”

.....

“So this is the result, huh?”

Julius’s refined voice, tinged with exasperation, narrated the chain of near-death events that had just transpired. His sharp gaze fell on his lover, who now lay sprawled across his lap, utterly drained, like a piece of soggy paper.

Subaru didn’t respond, save for the shallow breaths that indicated he was trying his best to recover his strength after his “adventure” in Reinhard’s arms.

Beside them sat the Divine Sword, head hung low and utterly dejected. His beautiful eyes were downcast, resembling a child caught red-handed sneaking sweets. The sight drew a sigh from Julius, who spoke again with a tone that was half-scolding, half-affectionate.

“Reinhard, not everyone has the same resistance to heights. Why didn’t you just bring Subaru here in a ground dragon carriage?”

Reinhard offered a sheepish smile, his gaze dropping further in guilt.

“I thought we wouldn’t make it in time for the appointment… so I—”

“I understand you were worried about punctuality,” Julius interjected, pinching the bridge of his nose with one hand while the other gently stroked Subaru’s hair. Subaru let out a soft groan, shifting slightly to find a more comfortable position. “But there was no need to rush that much. We were just going to have lunch and relax—not save the kingdom.”

The reason the three of them were together today was that they had been granted a rare day off—a treasure as elusive as gold at the bottom of the sea. Each of them had demanding responsibilities that left little time for one another, but at long last, their schedules had aligned perfectly. They’d agreed to spend the day together in Pristella, the city of waterways renowned for its beauty and tranquility.

On the way, Reinhard had coincidentally run into Subaru, who was rushing to make it on time for their lunch appointment with Julius, who had arrived the day before.

The red-haired knight had decided to “help” Subaru reach their destination promptly… but the results were another matter entirely.

“I’m sorry,” Reinhard said softly, glancing at Subaru, who still had his eyes closed. “Next time, I’ll be more careful.”

“And you, Subaru—weren’t you supposed to leave Roswaal’s domain early this morning? Why are you so late?” Julius muttered in mild exasperation as he fussed over the unruly midnight-colored hair of the man resting on his lap, carefully smoothing it back into its usual neatness.

“…It’s Beako—my ever-so-adorable Beako. She seemed really upset that I didn’t bring her along, so I had to spend ages calming her down,” Subaru mumbled, glancing up at the elegantly arched brow of disbelief on Julius’s face.

“You didn’t inform the Great Spirit beforehand, did you?”

“I-I forgot, okay?! Can’t I just say sorry?” Subaru retorted hastily, his cheeks flushing an amusing shade of pink.

“Honestly, try to be a bit more considerate in the future.”

Though his words seemed like chastisement, Julius’s eyes betrayed a gentle warmth he couldn’t quite hide. The bond between the three of them wasn’t something that required long explanations—it was a connection built on understanding, even if mistakes happened now and then. Each of them did their best for one another.

“Maybe Subaru forgot because he was too excited. Don’t be too hard on him,” Reinhard interjected at last, his soft voice laced with quiet protectiveness.

That only served to embolden the cheeky black cat even further. Subaru tilted his chin up with a smugness that was both endearing and infuriating, making Julius’s fingers twitch in mild frustration.

“Reinhard, you’re too indulgent with Subaru,” Julius remarked, attempting to maintain his usual composure.

Before he could finish, however, the recently recovered Subaru shot upright, twisting around to grab hold of his knight arm. He clung to it tightly, pouting at the man who seemed determined to play the role of an overly strict parent.

“Hey! Don’t you dare scold my Reinhard!”

Julius could only sigh and shake his head at the theatrics, his voice tinged with resignation. “What am I supposed to do when you two are this protective of each other?”

“Of course we are!” Subaru replied, flashing a confident grin. His eyes sparkled with mischief as he stared Julius down. “You’ll never win against the ultimate alliance of us, oh great and mighty knight!”

It was then that the lavender-haired spirit knight realized he’d been cast as the villain. And as someone who prided himself on being the best at what he did, Julius decided to embrace the role with full conviction.

“I may not be able to beat Reinhard, but as for you… that’s another story.”

His perfectly handsome face curved into a sly smirk as he ran a hand through his hair in a habit that always seemed to heighten his charm. His amber eyes gleamed, sharp and focused, like a predator that had just found its prey.

“Huh?” Subaru exclaimed, his voice high-pitched as his eyes darted around warily, mixed with confusion. Before he could brace himself, a gloved hand—clean and pristine, belonging to the renowned knight—reached out to gently tug at his left cheek.

“Hey! What are you doing?!” Subaru yelped, flailing desperately to push the hand away. But his strength, built from just a few years of training, was no match for the powerful grip of the exceptional knight. His soft cheek was mercilessly stretched.

“Just disciplining a mischievous little hero who dared challenge me.”

“Ow! That hurts! Reinhard! Help me!”

Subaru turned to plead with the tall figure seated calmly nearby, watching the scene unfold with a kind smile. But instead of stepping in to vanquish the so-called villain, the latest scion of the Astrea family reached out to pinch Subaru’s other cheek, his eyes twinkling with a rare playful gleam.

“You’re joining in too?!”

“Well, I wanted to pinch Subaru’s cheeks too,” Reinhard said with a tone so light and innocent that it almost felt like a betrayal.

The hero had become the final boss.

So this is what it feels like to be betrayed by those closest to you. Was the world always this cruel? Was he playing on hard mode all along?

“You’re both horrible! Ganging up on someone defenseless like this—it’s not fair!” Subaru shouted, his face flushing bright red with a mix of anger and embarrassment. He squirmed and tried to escape their grasp, but to the two knights, he resembled a child throwing a tantrum after losing a game, rather than a victim.

“Hm? Weren’t you the one who started it?” Julius chuckled softly, finally releasing Subaru’s cheek.

“Are you blaming the victim now, Juli?!” Subaru shot back, rubbing his now-reddened cheek indignantly. “That’s awful! A knight bullying an innocent civilian!”

“A civilian?” Julius smirked, his voice teasing. “Last I heard, you’re also a knight under Lady Emilia, aren’t you?”

His playful tone was accompanied by a gentle touch on Subaru’s cheek, where he had just inflicted his “punishment.” Julius’s thumb brushed lightly over the reddened spot, and his smile widened as Subaru’s scowling face failed to come up with a retort.

Subaru opened his mouth, ready to retort, but the sly look Julius shot him made his face flush hot. His instincts—sharpened by countless brushes with danger—screamed at him to stop before he dug his own grave any deeper.

Julius, when serious, was far more terrifying than Reinhard.

“Does it hurt? Should I blow on it for you?”

Reinhard’s gentle voice broke the silence as he reached out to lightly touch Subaru’s other cheek. The warmth from his fingertips carried an unmistakable sense of affection.

The recipient of this tenderness found his face flushing red again, a clear testament to the turmoil stirring inside. Yet instead of comforting him, Reinhard’s kindness only made Subaru feel even more overwhelmed by the sheer attention he was receiving.

“Enough! Get away from me, all of you!” Subaru shouted, swatting both their hands away as he sprang to his feet like a cat scalded by hot water. He quickly retreated to a corner of the room, glaring at the two knights with flushed cheeks, his body language screaming of a small animal cornered by predators.

Julius and Reinhard exchanged a glance before both broke into quiet laughter. Their chuckles, tinged with amusement and affection, eased the tension in the room.

“He even hissed at us. How cute,” Reinhard said cheerfully, unfazed by Subaru’s earlier protests, his radiant smile accompanied by an almost tangible aura of blooming flowers.

“And he even unsheathed his claws,” Julius added with a teasing glint in his amber eyes.

“I can hear you!” Subaru snapped.

“If you can hear us, then come back over here,” Reinhard coaxed, his tone soothing yet slightly mischievous. “We’re not planning anything, I promise.”

Though it sounded reassuring, Subaru knew better. The so-called Divine Sword had a talent for luring people in with his innocent demeanor—an ability far more dangerous than any witch’s spell.

He hesitated, mentally debating whether the hand reaching out was that of an angel or a devil. He refused to be tricked—

“Subaru…”

The soft, low voice that called his name, paired with eyes as pleading as a puppy abandoned in the rain, melted the walls around his heart before he even realized it.

“Ugh…”

Before he knew it, his hand had reached out and grasped Reinhard’s warm one tightly. The next thing he felt was being gently pulled back to sit in the center of the room. Not only that, but the knight leaned against his shoulder, pressing close as if to ensure Subaru wouldn’t escape his affectionate grasp so easily.

“Reinhard…” Subaru murmured his name, his face burning from the proximity that made him acutely aware of the other man’s every breath.

“Yes?” Reinhard replied nonchalantly, as if completely oblivious to how dangerously close he was to giving his lover a heart attack.

Subaru, caught entirely off guard, wanted to push him away. But the rapid pounding of his heart and the warmth seeping from Reinhard’s shoulder and hand into his own left him frozen, unable to do more than bite his lip in silence.

“You’re still hopeless against Reinhard, aren’t you?”

Julius’s light teasing from the other side of the room snapped Subaru out of his daze. He whipped around to glare at the other knight, his face twisted in a mix of frustration and embarrassment—a sight Julius clearly found highly entertaining.

“Shut up!!”

This humiliation… he would make sure to settle the score someday!

.....

It was Julius who had taken charge of choosing their accommodations for this trip. He had booked a Kararagi-style inn that Subaru had praised during their previous visit to Pristella. With its ambiance and décor reminiscent of the traditional Japanese inns from Subaru’s old world, the place carried a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It was as if the longing for his former life was being soothed by the small, thoughtful details of this place.

Lunch began smoothly. Although Subaru kept a slight distance from the two knights due to lingering shyness, the relaxed atmosphere and the comforting flavors of Kararagi-style cuisine gradually melted away his awkwardness.

After their meal, Julius suggested taking a walk around the city to enjoy the sights. He pulled out a small notebook filled with detailed notes about local attractions, earning a teasing remark from Subaru about being the nerdiest knight in the kingdom.

The three strolled along cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops. The sounds of laughter and conversation from passersby blended seamlessly with the salty scent of the sea. A gentle breeze swept through, as if welcoming them with the whispers of unseen spirits. Subaru eagerly took the lead, his eyes sparkling with curiosity as he admired his surroundings.

Though the city had suffered significant damage during the battle against the Witch’s Cult, its ongoing restoration efforts had brought back much of its charm. It was nearly as vibrant and lively as the Pristella of old, with its waterways glistening under the sun.

“So, where should we go next?” Reinhard asked in his calm, soft voice as he walked beside Subaru. His words blended effortlessly with the sounds of the bustling streets.

“I want to visit Liliana,” Subaru replied without hesitation.

“Liliana? The Songstress Princess?” Julius asked, raising an eyebrow in interest.

“Yeah! It’d be a waste to come all this way and not hear a song from the wandering bard herself.”

“You seem to admire Lady Liliana quite a bit,” Julius teased, his tone playful, a subtle smirk gracing his refined features.

“What’s that supposed to mean? Are you jealous?” Subaru snapped back, baring his teeth like a mischievous child. His playful defiance only made Julius chuckle quietly.

“Well, that’s one of the privileges I have as your lover…” Julius shrugged lightly, his casual demeanor masking the weight of his words. “But no, you misunderstand. I’m just worried you might run into trouble with her fans.”

“Ugh, you’re so cold!” Subaru huffed, pouting at the logical yet utterly unromantic response. He turned his head away in mock annoyance, though the faint blush on his cheeks betrayed his true feelings.

Seeing Subaru’s exaggerated reaction, Julius let out a soft laugh. He stepped behind Subaru, gently placed his hands on his shoulders, and leaned in just enough for the subtle scent of fine tea to reach Subaru’s nose.

“I’m confident you wouldn’t give your heart to anyone but us,” Julius whispered, his voice carrying a quiet assurance.

Subaru froze for a moment, his expression caught between embarrassment and indignation. “I get it, okay…” he muttered, his voice barely audible.

The colorful journey through the city continued. The trio meandered along narrow streets surrounded by glistening waterways, with sunlight dancing on the water’s surface. Subaru led the way with a boundless enthusiasm that drew no objections from the two knights. His eager eyes darted from side to side, as if searching for something amidst the cheerful atmosphere of the water city. The distant sound of waves lapping against boats mingled with the occasional laughter and calls of water dragons.

The two taller figures followed at a steady pace, their movements revealing years of training. Reinhard, dressed simply yet exuding elegance, walked with an air of calm confidence. His gentle sky-blue eyes scanned his surroundings with unwavering focus, reflecting the deep courage rooted in his soul.

Julius, on the other hand, moved with the grace of a nobleman. His meticulously tailored knight’s uniform and impeccable composure conveyed a sense of refinement and care for every detail.

In stark contrast, the one who held their hearts stumbled ahead with unrestrained energy. Subaru craned his neck to observe everything around him, his lively steps often leading to near accidents. Yet every time, one of the knights would reach out and steady him before anything could go wrong.

“I think I’ve found her!”

The man who had nearly kissed the ground several times in his excitement called out, coming to an abrupt halt a short distance ahead of the two knights. His deep black eyes were fixed on a square not far from where they stood, and he turned back to the others with a wide, unmistakably joyful smile.

Reinhard and Julius exchanged a brief glance, faint smiles gracing their faces, before silently following Subaru. At that moment, nothing mattered more than being by his side. If possible, they wanted to savor every second of it.

Not long after, a small figure came into view—a tan-skinned woman with a musical instrument slung over her back. As soon as Subaru spotted her, he called out with unrestrained delight.

“Liliana!”

The familiar voice drew Liliana’s gaze, and as soon as she recognized who was calling her, her face lit up with a radiant smile, as bright as the midday sun.

“Oh! Natsuki-San! It’s been so long!” she greeted back, waving enthusiastically. However, when her large, round eyes noticed the two figures standing behind Subaru, her expression shifted to one of gleeful curiosity, as if she’d stumbled upon rare inspiration for a new song.

Her smile grew even wider. “And who might these two be…?”

“Ah, you’ve probably met during all the chaos last time, but let me formally introduce them,” Subaru said, gesturing to the two behind him with a faint smile.

Julius stepped forward first, his elegant knight’s uniform perfectly complementing his refined demeanor. Placing a hand on his chest in a gesture of formality, he gave a slight bow. His deep, melodious voice matched his graceful movements.

“Julius Juukulius, of the Royal Order of Knights of Lugunica. It is an honor to meet the Princess of Song again. Thank you for your tireless efforts during the previous incident.”

Reinhard followed suit, his movements fluid and unassuming yet inherently captivating. His warm smile carried a quiet sincerity as he spoke.

“Reinhard van Astrea, of the House of the Divine Sword. It is a pleasure to see you again, Lady Liliana.”

The two knights moved with the elegance of a flowing stream—polite, poised, and embodying the grace expected of noble knights known throughout the land.

Watching from the side, Subaru couldn’t help but think that this felt like some sort of bizarre ritual. Was there really a secret knightly etiquette competition in this world or something?

“Wow! You’re both so dazzling!” Liliana exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she clasped her hands to her chest in awe. “Thank you so much for protecting Pristella. I’ve heard so many stories about the both of you—it’s an honor to meet such incredible figures!”

After gushing over the knights, she turned her attention back to Subaru. “And what about you, Natsuki-San? Aren’t you going to introduce yourself as well?”

The question made Subaru pause, sighing heavily before shrugging. “I’m just Natsuki Subaru, a humble, broke knight serving a beautiful half-elf while struggling to survive each day. Nothing special about me.”

“That’s not true at all!” Liliana protested fervently, her small frame brimming with indignation. “You’re a protagonist in your own right, Natsuki-San! Even standing beside these two splendid knights, you shine just as brightly!”

Her straightforward praise brought a rush of color to Subaru’s cheeks. His lips, initially pressed into an uncertain line, moved in a faint mumble. “You’re exaggerating… enough already…”

The two knights exchanged glances, their gazes soft with amusement as they looked at the flustered man caught between humility and embarrassment.

“What Lady Liliana says is true—Subaru shines brilliantly,” Reinhard said, his fiery red hair glowing softly under the sunlight as his enamored eyes lingered on the man who held his heart. His voice was gentle, like a song, as he continued, “He’s like a guiding star, always leading us forward no matter where we are.”

Liliana let out a soft gasp, quickly covering her mouth with her hand as if trying to stifle a grin. She couldn’t believe her ears—what she’d just heard sounded like something straight out of a romance novel brought to life.

“Oh my… Sir Divine Sword’s words are just so sweet! If I were you, Natsuki-San, I think I’d have melted on the spot!”

Though Subaru didn’t literally melt, he was trembling from sheer embarrassment, his face burning like a wildfire. And just when he thought it couldn’t get any worse, the second knight decided to chime in.

“Subaru is special in his own way,” Julius remarked, bringing a hand to his chin as if deep in thought. “Though he can be a bit clumsy at times, it only adds to his charm in a way no one else can replicate. It’s a unique quality you won’t find anywhere else.”

“E-Enough already! Stop complimenting me!” Subaru shouted, his voice growing higher-pitched as the blush spread to his ears and even the back of his neck. He waved his hands in protest, but it did nothing to lessen the heat of his flustered state.

While his strengths included an almost absurd resilience to insults and an unrelenting optimism, Subaru’s weaknesses were the polar opposite—love, affection, and praise were attacks he had no defense against.

“By the way, is this a date?” Seeing how easily flustered Subaru was, Liliana couldn’t resist teasing him further. Her sly smile and exaggerated wink were meant to be seductive, but they only came off as comically awkward.

“W-We’re just walking around! That’s all! Just walking!” Subaru yelled, desperately denying the accusation. But his expression betrayed the truth entirely.

“A real date?! With not one but two handsome knights? I, Liliana, must salute you for this achievement!”

“It’s not like that!” Subaru shouted again, his attempts to clarify growing more frantic. But Liliana seemed deaf to his protests. As he racked his brain for a way to explain the relationship between him and the two knights behind him, his thoughts were interrupted when Liliana suddenly raised her hand high, as if struck by divine inspiration.

“I’ve got it!”

She announced loudly, her eyes sparkling with excitement as she reached for her trusty instrument and struck a dramatic pose.

Subaru’s face turned pale as a sheet.

“No, don’t tell me—”

“A new song! ‘The Love Triangle of the Knights and the Man!’” Liliana declared boldly, her radiant smile matching the triumphant tone in her voice. She strummed the strings of her lyre and began humming a fresh melody with fervent enthusiasm.

“Stop! Stop it right now, Liliana!” Subaru shouted, his embarrassment reaching a boiling point. It felt as if steam might actually start pouring out of his head like a kettle on the verge of exploding.

Meanwhile, Reinhard and Julius simply watched the unfolding chaos with amused smiles. The current Divine Sword tilted his head slightly and quipped without missing a beat, “Perhaps this song could become the ‘love anthem of the era,’ Subaru.”

“Reinhard! Can’t you say something to help me instead?!” Subaru snapped, glaring at him in frustration. But Reinhard merely offered his ever-gentle smile, unfazed.

“Well, it does seem rather interesting,” Julius added with a casual shrug.

Liliana giggled as she happily strummed her lute. “Right? Then, please listen to this masterpiece!”

“But I’m afraid there’s a slight misunderstanding,” Julius interjected, causing Liliana to pause mid-strum and glance at him curiously.

“A misunderstanding? What do you mean?”

Straightening his posture, Julius’s lips curved into a poised smile. “It’s not a love triangle. Both Reinhard and I love Subaru, and we both fully accept one another.”

The straightforward and unwavering declaration left Liliana wide-eyed. “Eh?”

Her gaze darted between Julius, Reinhard, and Subaru before she clapped her hands together in realization.

“Oh, I see now! So it’s not a love triangle… it’s the love of two knights for one special man, isn’t it?!”

“Exactly,” Julius confirmed with a satisfied smile, evidently pleased to correct her mistake. But his words made Subaru yell out in protest.

“Wait a second! That’s not the kind of misunderstanding I wanted you to fix!”

Julius shrugged nonchalantly, his demeanor relaxed. “I was merely stating the truth.” His playful amber eyes met Subaru’s, daring him to deny it. “Unless you’re going to disagree?”

“I-I’m not saying that, but…” Subaru stammered, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water as he searched for words that wouldn’t make him look even more pitiful.

“Oh! Then the song should be titled ‘The Love of Two Great Knights for One Special Man,’ shouldn’t it?” Liliana declared triumphantly, snapping her fingers. She struck a dramatic pose, ready to sing again.

“Argh! Stop it! You’re making me want to disappear from this world!” Subaru wailed, his voice so loud it drew curious glances from passersby.

Even as his face turned crimson and his protests grew louder, to the two knights, he looked more like a small, puffed-up animal throwing a tantrum than someone genuinely upset.

“Subaru is so adorably shy,” Reinhard said with a fond tone.

“He really is sensitive to this kind of thing,” Julius added with a knowing nod.

“Shut up!”

Amid their shared laughter, the atmosphere was filled with such joy and warmth that it felt as though nothing mattered more than this moment together.

.......

Subaru wasn’t sure how many times he had shouted, “Shut up!” today. He had lost count, and honestly, he didn’t want to know. His heart was already working harder than if he’d just finished a marathon, all thanks to his two lovers who seemed to take endless delight in teasing him—fully aware of just how sensitive he was when it came to anything romantic.

And it wasn’t even the end of the day yet.

Damn it, it felt like they were taking his heart out and kneading it over and over again.

By evening, after returning from their walk, Subaru dragged himself back to their lodgings. He collapsed onto the neatly made futon with the exhaustion of someone who had just fought ten Petelgeuses in a single day.

As he stared at the wooden ceiling adorned with simple patterns, he couldn’t help but wish he could just bury himself under the futon forever.

“Their eyes, sweeter than the first drop of honey from the flowers of love…”

Liliana’s haunting lyrics played on a loop in his mind, like a broken record stuck on repeat. With a groan, he pulled a pillow over his face and rolled around, consumed by mortified frustration.

“Ugh… Emilia-tan, I miss you…”

From across the room, Julius’s calm voice broke the silence. Glancing over, Subaru saw the lavender-haired knight sitting cross-legged, scrutinizing a sheet of music with such seriousness that he looked like he was reviewing the draft of a great literary work.

No way…

“How did you even get that?!” Subaru bolted upright, his expression one of pure alarm.

Julius glanced up briefly, his amber eyes calm and unbothered, as though what he was doing was perfectly normal.

“I merely asked politely, and Lady Liliana was happy to oblige. She truly has remarkable talent—this song captures such delicate emotions…”

“Stop analyzing it already! That’s the most embarrassing thing I’ve ever been a part of!” Subaru yelled, his mortification only growing as Julius continued to examine the lyrics as if Subaru’s outburst didn’t even exist.

Reinhard entered the room just in time to witness Subaru’s defeated state, chuckling softly as he walked over. The kind-hearted knight sat beside Subaru and gently placed a hand on his arm.

“Subaru, why don’t we go for a warm bath? You like those, don’t you?” His soothing voice was like honey poured into a parched heart, easing Subaru’s frayed nerves.

Subaru looked at Reinhard with an expression that clearly said he didn’t want to move, but the knight’s reassuring smile made it impossible to refuse.

“Fine… I guess.”

Reinhard helped him to his feet with care. “I heard from the staff that there’s a Steam room that just opened. Would you like to try it?”

The mention of a sauna instantly brightened Subaru’s mood.

“A sauna?!”

“Yes, apparently it’s a Kararagi-style relaxation method. Have you heard of it?”

“Oh, it’s the ultimate form of refreshing torture, Reinhard!”  His eyes sparkling with newfound enthusiasm.

“Refreshing torture?” Reinhard repeated, his expression blank as he tried to reconcile the contradictory phrase.

“Trust me, you have to experience it for yourself. Then you’ll understand,” Subaru said with a wide grin, his energy fully restored.

Julius, who had quietly folded the sheet of music and slipped it into his notebook, now stood and joined the conversation. His interest in the new topic was evident.

“A new lesson in Kararagi culture, is it?” he remarked with a faint smile.

“Let’s go! The sauna awaits!” Subaru declared with excitement as the three of them left their room, heading toward their next relaxing adventure.

end........

Chapter Text

Reinhard often struggled with communication.

He was never quite sure how to define his own feelings in words that could convey them clearly. Sometimes, his mere existence was enough to make people close themselves off before they even had a proper conversation with him.

No one had ever taught him what to do. No one had ever bothered to ask what he wanted. No one had ever dared to reach out a helping hand.

And so, eventually, he chose to overlook it all.

The young knight often wondered if simple actions might be enough to express himself. But deep down, he could never confidently say that those actions would truly reach the hearts of others.

That’s why his surprise on the day Subaru entered his life was genuine—a man who started their conversation with nervousness but, within minutes, had captured Reinhard’s full attention. Reinhard had never found it so easy to befriend someone before. Subaru had simply spoken to him candidly, treated him naturally like a friend, and shown concern without trying to drag him into the life-and-death struggles he himself faced—even though they had only just met.

At that point, Subaru hadn’t even realized who the Divine Sword was. But that didn’t matter. What mattered was that, for the first time, someone made Reinhard feel more human than he had ever felt in his entire life.

And then, one day, Subaru had told Reinhard with an innocent smile:

“The dampness in your eyes, the warmth under your skin, and the glow in your chest… that’s what happiness feels like.”

Happiness…

What a beautiful word.

Light as air, yet carrying a weight that pressed deeply into the heart of one born a hero.

As time passed, watching this extraordinary man day after day taught Reinhard to connect his feelings to those words.

The happiness he began to understand came from nothing other than Subaru himself.

Even if that body was covered in dirt, stained with blood, and trailed the scent of death with every step, to Reinhard, Subaru’s form was more beautiful than anything in existence—so beautiful that he could never look away.

He cherished it so deeply.

Loved it so dearly.

The fragility hidden within his strength. The bright smiles masking his pain. The stubbornness of someone who stood firm in the face of despair.

He loved everything that was Natsuki Subaru.

It was the feeling of a parched tongue,
every time he watched that back struggle to stand upright once more.

It was the surge of blood in his chest,
whenever the other spoke in a teasing tone, yet carried gentleness in every word.

It was the starlight glimmering in those onyx eyes,
even on days soaked in blood, amidst screams and chaos. Those eyes remained the sole beacon shining against the darkened sky.

“I love you,” he whispered to himself, over and over again. Each repetition of those words reinforced the warmth in his chest, making it all the more vivid.

And when Subaru turned to him, his radiant smile sending Reinhard’s heart racing, he knew…

This was happiness.

The kind of happiness he wanted to protect forever.

“Hey, if you don’t hurry back to the room, Yuly’s going to scold you.”

Under the night breeze, moonlight cast its glow over the wooden balcony that stretched toward their quarters. The gentle sway of the trees in the garden whispered a lullaby, making this night feel more serene than any other.

“Ah, sorry. I guess I spaced out a bit.”

“You, daydreaming? That’s weird as hell.”

Subaru turned to look at the red-haired knight trailing behind him at a leisurely pace after their shared time in the hot springs and sauna. The navy-blue Kararagi-style sleepwear Reinhard wore accentuated his tall, elegant figure, perfectly complementing his hair color. It was as if everything the hero of this world put on had been tailor-made to suit him.

Of course, as expected of a certified ikemen. Even in an event-limited outfit, he somehow managed to shine brighter than anyone.

“Did you say something just now? I didn’t catch it clearly.”

Reinhard paused briefly, caught in the act, but soon a soft smile curved his lips as he answered without hesitation.

“I said, I love you.”

The figure walking ahead froze in place. Subaru’s cheeks, still warm from the hot springs, flushed an even deeper shade of red.

“I already know that… You say it all the time.”

The out-of-uniform knight chuckled softly at the muttered, flustered reply. He stepped closer until only an arm’s length remained between them. Lowering himself slightly so their eyes were level, he spoke again, his voice clearer this time, as if to make sure his words carried more weight.

“I love you.”

Strong arms encircled the smaller frame, pulling him into a gentle embrace.

“I love you so much.”

The one who was suddenly enveloped in a loose hug stood stiffly, his face buried against the broad chest before him. For a moment, he was completely bewildered as his nose caught the faint herbal scent of the sauna clinging to Reinhard’s skin at this impossibly close distance.

Subaru hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to respond. Eventually, he awkwardly patted the broad back of the taller man with a few tentative slaps, his mind swirling with questions about the reason behind this sudden embrace.

“What’s gotten into you? Did the sauna get you drunk or something?”

The fiery red hair swayed gently as Reinhard shook his head, his melodic voice filled with joy. “I’m just really, really happy right now.”

“You sure? It’s not like you fell asleep in the sauna and had a nightmare or something, is it?” Subaru asked, half-joking, while simultaneously trying to wriggle out of the firm embrace that refused to let him go.

Though Reinhard occasionally showed a more vulnerable, childlike side around him, it usually stemmed from something troubling his mind. Subaru couldn’t help but feel a twinge of concern and wanted to make sure the knight was truly okay.

But as Subaru shifted to pull away, strong arms tightened their hold, drawing him even closer into that warm chest.

“Hey!”

“Let me stay like this for just a little while,” Reinhard pleaded softly, his warm tone freezing Subaru in place. For a moment, Subaru stopped resisting, his face heating up as a faint blush spread across his cheeks. With a small huff, he gave in.

“Fine… just for a little while,” he muttered quietly, his voice barely audible. Resting his head against Reinhard’s broad shoulder, Subaru allowed himself to absorb the warmth radiating from the embrace, feeling it seep into his heart.

Reinhard’s expression softened as if he had just been granted a long-awaited permission. A gentle smile graced his lips, and his bright blue eyes gleamed with such tenderness they could have melted into honey.

“Subaru, you’re so kind,” Reinhard said with a light laugh, the sound as soft and cheerful as wind chimes. The tranquility of the night seemed even warmer now, but those words only served to ignite something in Subaru.

“Enough already! If you’re going to hug me, then just hug me—stop talking, or I’ll seriously kick you!” Subaru barked, his muffled voice trying to sound as threatening as possible.

The only response he got was Reinhard’s amused smile.

“I promise I won’t dodge, but you’d just hurt your foot, Subaru.”

Subaru pouted in annoyance, his expression resembling a black cat puffing up its fur in an attempt to look intimidating. But to the Divine Sword, it was nothing short of adorable, prompting Reinhard to tighten his embrace slightly.

Before either of them could fully enjoy the warmth of the hug, the soft sound of footsteps on the wooden balcony drew their attention to a figure approaching at a leisurely pace.

Julius appeared with his usual elegance, his yukata—a style matching Reinhard’s and Subaru’s—accentuating his noble demeanor. The aura radiating from him was so commanding it was almost hard to look at him directly.

“Aren’t you two just the cutest?” Julius commented as soon as he saw the scene before him—a pair of young men locked in a tight embrace. His amber eyes gleamed with barely concealed amusement.

“Holding each other so closely like that… you two look like you fit perfectly together,” he teased, his voice light with humor as a subtle smile graced his lips.

“W-We’re not doing anything weird! Just hugging, that’s all!” Subaru blurted, immediately pulling away from Reinhard like a child caught red-handed doing something mischievous. His eyes darted nervously as he struggled to come up with a coherent explanation, tripping over his words.

Reinhard, meanwhile, stood calmly with a gentle smile, offering no assistance. Julius, arms crossed, continued to survey the situation with a smirk.

“Oh? But I didn’t say anything,” Julius replied, his tone deliberately playful as he leaned forward slightly.

“Y-You’re just trying to mess with me, so I… I’m saying it in advance!” Subaru retorted hastily, glaring at the purple-haired knight with a mix of embarrassment and frustration.

His wary demeanor earned a soft, low chuckle from Julius—a sound that carried a subtle charm. Narrowing his eyes in amusement, Julius exuded the air of a cunning fox toying with its prey.

“Ah, Subaru, why are you raising your voice like that?” Julius feigned a wounded tone, though the playful smile never left his lips.

“It’s truly tragic, you know. With Reinhard, you speak so gently and sweetly, but when it’s me, you’re loud and even throw the word ‘hate’ around so easily. Isn’t that a bit unfair?”

Subaru opened his mouth to respond but found himself at a loss for words. He knew Julius was teasing him on purpose, yet he couldn’t come up with a sharp retort. Instead, he shrank back with a sulky expression, letting out a soft growl of frustration as he backed into Reinhard, who stood like a solid pillar of comfort.

Like a small turtle retreating into its shell, Subaru’s retreat was endearing enough to make even Julius, the instigator, grin a little wider without realizing it.

"I never said that! You’re making things up!"

“Oh? Then I must have misheard when you shouted, ‘I hate you the most!’ the other day, huh?” Julius’s amber eyes sparkled with amusement, clearly enjoying Subaru’s reaction as the latter stood there biting his lip tightly.

“Well? What’s your response?” The kingdom’s most exceptional knight pressed on, a slight smirk playing on his lips as he leaned into his advantage. He reached out to cradle Subaru’s face gently, his thumb brushing over the flushed cheek, leaving Subaru no room to think clearly. “Or are you thinking of changing your mind and confessing your love to me instead? You know, between us, things feel a little unclear. You haven’t said ‘I love you’ even once, have you?”

Those words and that teasing touch were enough to make Subaru’s brain short-circuit. His face burned bright red, like kindling doused in gasoline and set aflame. He opened his mouth to retort but ended up choking on his words, retreating a step in an attempt to escape—only to bump squarely into Reinhard’s chest.

Reinhard, standing tall and steady behind him, instinctively placed a hand on Subaru’s back to keep him from stumbling. A gentle smile adorned his handsome face, his bright blue eyes radiating warmth like the morning sun, offering a sense of safety and reassurance.

“I’d like to hear it too, Subaru,” Reinhard said softly, his voice as tender as his gaze.

Subaru froze, his eyes widening in disbelief as he glanced back and forth between the two noble knights.

“You guys… you’re serious?”

“Just say it once—it’s not that hard,” Julius coaxed, his tone gentler now but still laced with a hint of challenge.

Subaru pressed his lips together so tightly it looked like he might draw blood. His hands balled into fists at his sides as he tried to muster the courage to speak. But when he finally opened his mouth again, he decided to deflect instead.

“Then you say it first!” It was his last desperate attempt to redirect the situation and turn the tables on them.

“Go ahead then, if you’re so eager…” Julius’s deep, deliberate voice dripped with playful intent as his hand rose to tilt Subaru’s chin upward. His thumb gently brushed along the corner of Subaru’s lips, the touch featherlight and teasing, as though inviting him to fall completely into his trap. “I'll say it for you as many times as you want,”

“O-o-once is more than enough!” Subaru stammered, his voice trembling with nervousness. The steadily shrinking distance between them sent his heart pounding so fiercely it felt as though it might burst out of his chest.

Julius’s long, dark lashes framed his mesmerizing amber eyes, which sparkled with mischief. A stray lock of lavender hair fell across his immaculate face, softening his features in a way that contrasted with the sly glint in his gaze. Warm breaths ghosted against Subaru’s flushed cheeks, intensifying the heat that now radiated from his skin like an open flame.

His knees grew weak, threatening to buckle beneath him, leaving him rooted to the spot. All he could do was stand frozen as Julius’s lips parted ever so slightly, their graceful curve drawing Subaru’s gaze like a moth to a flame.

Closer… closer still…

Then, in a low and velvety whisper, Julius spoke.

“I love you, Subaru.”

The words echoed, rich and resonant, sending a shiver down Subaru’s spine. His dark eyes widened in shock, his entire body stiffening as if the very sound of those three simple words had cast a spell on him.

Julius offered a faint smile as he stepped back slightly, the delicate features of his face—reminiscent of a masterful painting—clearly displaying satisfaction at Subaru's flustered reaction, much like a trembling chick faced with an imposing hawk.

The words Julius had just spoken continued to echo in Subaru's mind. It wasn’t just the richness of his deep, melodious voice; it was the sheer depth, laced with unwavering confidence and composed calm. It was the voice of a man fully matured, both in thought and body.

And yet, there was an undeniable allure to that voice—something that sent an unexplainable shiver through the listener. It wasn't merely a collection of ordinary words; it felt carefully crafted to captivate, to ensnare, and to etch itself indelibly in the heart of whoever heard it.

If Subaru didn’t know Julius as well as he did, he might have suspected that this knight was nothing less than a Casanova, using his looks and voice to charm women across the kingdom.

This was downright unfair.

The thought buzzed in his head as he struggled to catch his breath, warmth creeping up his face so quickly that he wished he could simply vanish from the moment.

He tried to console himself with the notion that if he and Reinhard grew a bit older, they might possess the same level of charm and commanding presence someday. But the more he thought about it, the harder it became to rationalize why his heart was still racing so wildly.

“Are you even breathing over there?” Julius teased, his playful tone breaking Subaru out of his chaotic internal debate.

“Of course I am, idiot! Stop asking already!” Subaru shot back, his voice raised, his face now as red as Reinhard’s fiery hair. He immediately turned his head away, only to feel a gentle squeeze on his shoulder—a touch that redirected his attention behind him.

“Julius has said his part,” Reinhard spoke, his voice steady and warm. “Now, it’s your turn, Subaru.”

Reinhard's kind words weren’t forceful, but they carried a subtle weight of expectation, enough to make Subaru freeze in place. His eyes darted around, searching for an escape, while his lips pressed tightly together, trembling as if he were about to cry. His already flushed face only emphasized the endearing hesitation in his expression.

Subaru lowered his head until his chin rested against his chest, his breaths uneven and shallow. Beads of sweat formed on his palms, and his fingers clutched the fabric of his yukata at his stomach, wrinkling it as though holding on for dear life, trying to piece together the courage that had scattered throughout his body.

He looked both pitiful and captivating at once… a rare vulnerability from someone who was usually grinning, bouncing with energy, and mischievously bantering in their presence.

Neither Reinhard nor Julius wanted to pressure Subaru into saying something he wasn’t ready to share. Yet, in this moment, neither could tear their gaze away. Every small movement from him was hypnotizing, drawing them deeper into an infatuation that seemed impossible to resist. They stood motionless, afraid that even the slightest shift might shatter the fragile beauty of the scene before them.

The defiance that so often glimmered in Subaru’s sharp eyes was now replaced by a softness so breathtaking it seemed to stop time itself.

For now, they chose to play the role of the “cruel ones” Subaru so often accused them of being—holding onto this moment for just a bit longer.

They waited patiently, watching as his small, trembling form worked up the strength to lift his head on its own.

When those dark, uncertain eyes finally rose to meet theirs, filled with a timid plea for some kind of answer, the two knights refrained from offering one. Instead, they let the silence stretch out between them, speaking volumes without a single word.

We’re here. Take your time. There’s no rush.

Subaru opened his mouth, as though ready to say something, but the words caught at the tip of his tongue.

“I…” he began, his voice so soft it was almost a whisper. He took a deep breath, trying to steady himself, gathering courage with every inhale.

“I think… if it weren’t for you two helping me… I would’ve been in a really bad place…”

Subaru's gaze dropped to the ground, as if fearing that meeting anyone’s eyes would shatter the fragile resolve he’d managed to piece together. The silence that followed made each of his breaths feel deafeningly loud in the still air.

“And… I’m glad,” he began, his voice trembling slightly, betraying his attempt to mask his nervousness. “I’m glad I got to meet you.”

His words faltered, but he pressed on, trying to push past the hesitation that clung to every syllable. “And… being with you two… it’s fun.”

His brows furrowed tightly, his face flushed a deep crimson as if he were wrestling with himself in a battle no one else could see. Swallowing hard, he tried to continue, his voice growing softer with every word.

“I… I mean…”

“I…” His voice broke, the words trailing off into nothing.

Subaru wasn’t shy—not by nature.

He wasn’t even the type to fear showing affection. In fact, he loved romantic gestures. His head was full of sweet, heartfelt ideas about love, so much so that Ram had once jokingly called it his “useless talent.” Even Emilia, in her kindness, would often smile at his efforts and encourage him with gentle praise.

But the problem was…

He was always the one to give love first. Being on the receiving end was something he wasn’t used to. Especially when the love he received was so overwhelming, it felt like it could drown him.

It was like trying to sip from a raging river. Subaru knew he was still learning how to accept that kind of love. But for now… he was clumsy and inexperienced, far from mastering it.

“I can’t do it!” Subaru suddenly burst out, his voice rising in a desperate shout that bordered on a cry. His face, already red, seemed to burn even hotter as he threw up his hands in surrender. “This is way too embarrassing!”

Reinhard, who had been silently watching the entire time, let a gentle smile curve his lips. The warmth in his expression remained steady, as if to say that this—just this—was more than enough for him.

But Julius, standing close by, stepped forward without a word. His usual smirk, often tinged with playful mischief, had been replaced by a tender expression of affection—a rare glimpse into the softer side of the noble knight.

Before Subaru could process what was happening, Julius leaned in, his lips brushing against Subaru’s in a kiss.

It wasn’t forceful or hurried. Instead, it was warm, soft, and gentle—overflowing with a sweetness that made Subaru’s heart skip a beat. The world around him seemed to freeze in that moment. His eyes widened in shock, his body stiffened, and his mind blanked out as the soft touch of Julius’s lips lingered against his. The knight’s tongue lightly grazed Subaru’s bottom lip, a delicate gesture of comfort and reassurance.

When Julius finally pulled away, Subaru was left speechless, his mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water. His dark eyes blinked rapidly, his thoughts scrambled as he tried—and failed—to string together words of protest. His ears were ringing, not from the silence around him, but from the deafening roar of his own heartbeat.

Before Subaru could say anything, strong hands settled firmly on his shoulders. The next moment, Reinhard bent down and effortlessly swept him up in a princess carry, as if it were the easiest thing in the world.

“Hey! Reinhard! What are you doing?!” Subaru shouted, his voice rising in both alarm and disbelief. But his outburst was met with nothing more than an affectionate, tranquil smile from the red-haired knight.

Subaru’s body went rigid, his entire frame stiff like a statue as he found himself lifted effortlessly, just like earlier that day. Instinctively, his arms wrapped around Reinhard’s neck for balance. Confusion and shock left him speechless, and Reinhard, calm as ever, carried him back toward their room without offering a single explanation.

Subaru was carefully placed onto the soft futon, his gaze dropped to the traditional Japanese-style bedding beneath him before darting back up to meet the piercingly kind eyes of Reinhard. The knight sat poised front him, bracing one arm on the futon, his handsome face leaning in so close that Subaru instinctively held his breath.

The sound of the door closing reached his ears. Julius, who had entered the room calmly, now stood with his back to the firmly shut door. His every movement carried a deliberate, measured ease, as though the entire sequence of events had been meticulously orchestrated.

Subaru’s dark eyes darted between the two knights in a growing panic. His chest tightened with an amalgamation of nervousness and excitement bubbling to the surface. He summoned every ounce of his will to muster a protest, his voice raising in an attempt to break the charged atmosphere.

“W-Wait—wait a second!”

But the cry lodged in his throat the moment Reinhard leaned down, closing the remaining distance between them. And then, Subaru felt it—a soft, warm kiss, mirroring the earlier one from Julius, but this time tinged with a subtle difference. This kiss carried a tender longing, infused with the faint, intoxicating scent of soap from their shared bath, sending Subaru’s senses into disarray.

He froze as Reinhard’s lips brushed over his own with deliberate gentleness. The kiss deepened as the knight adjusted his angle, ensuring every motion was deliberate and unhurried. His tongue slipped past Subaru’s parted lips, exploring with an exquisite care that was almost reverent. It wasn’t overpowering; it was a dance of affection and patience, meant to coax rather than demand.

Subaru instinctively tilted his head back to escape the intensity, but Reinhard only followed. The knight’s larger frame loomed closer, and the kiss became more insistent yet never forceful. His hand came up to cradle Subaru’s nape, keeping him anchored as the other rested against the futon to prevent any chance of retreat.

Subaru’s heart pounded wildly in his chest, his entire body flushing with heat. The rhythm of his breathing turned erratic as his mind spun, overwhelmed by sensations he couldn’t begin to untangle.

When Reinhard finally pulled away, the cool air between them felt almost jarring. He gazed down at Subaru’s flushed face, which trembled with an intricate mixture of emotions—shock, embarrassment, and a flicker of something that made Reinhard’s protective instincts flare.

In that moment, Reinhard knew this sight—this utterly vulnerable, breathtaking expression—was one he would guard jealously. It was not meant for anyone else’s eyes, save his own or Julius’s.

The one who had been subjected to two consecutive assaults, his lips slightly parted as he struggled to draw in air, felt as though his face might combust entirely. Subaru’s entire being radiated heat, and the tremble in his voice betrayed the overwhelming emotions swirling within as he murmured softly, almost questioningly:

“Reinhard…”

The sound of his voice, so fragile and quivering, seemed to pierce straight into the core of the man it was directed toward. Reinhard’s gentle smile, a reflection of dawn’s first light—soothing and warm—adorned his face. But in his eyes, there was something deeper, something vast and impossible to fully grasp.

“Subaru... I love you,” Reinhard whispered, his voice laced with a tenderness so profound it left no room for doubt.

As he leaned in closer, his hand cupped Subaru’s flushed cheek with a touch so gentle it could have been mistaken for a breeze. His fingers brushed aside the disheveled strands of dark hair that had fallen over Subaru’s face during the heated moments prior. His lips trailed delicately along the sharp line of Subaru’s jaw, leaving a searing path of warmth behind.

Subaru’s breath hitched. His chest rose and fell rapidly as Reinhard’s lips descended to the sensitive skin of his neck, tracing the faint curve of his throat. The heat of Reinhard’s breath against his pulse sent an involuntary shiver through Subaru’s entire body.

“Subaru…” Reinhard’s voice was a deep, yearning murmur as he pressed a tender kiss to the hollow of Subaru’s throat. His movements were slow, deliberate, and reverent, savoring each second as though committing it to memory.

“Ah... i-it tickles,” Subaru stammered, his voice no more than a strained whisper, barely audible above the pounding of his own heartbeat. Every word that escaped him was a battle against the overwhelming sensations threatening to consume his consciousness entirely.

In the whirlwind of embarrassment and confusion, Subaru instinctively reached out, clutching the sleeve of Julius’s robe as if seeking solace. His wide, watery eyes trembled as they lifted to meet the amber gaze of the man beside him.

Julius regarded him with an expression that was unreadable yet tender. Slowly, he disentangled the weakened hand from his sleeve with a touch so gentle it was almost reverent.

“Don’t be afraid…”

Rather than leaving Subaru’s hand to fall back empty, Julius intertwined their fingers firmly, his long, elegant digits enveloping Subaru’s smaller ones in a comforting grasp.

Subaru glanced down at their entwined hands, his breath hitching slightly. He looked up just as Julius leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his temple with all the tenderness he could muster.

“Taking the first step is always the hardest, isn’t it?” Julius whispered, his voice low and soothing. He didn’t release Subaru’s hand; instead, he squeezed it gently in reassurance. “What you’ve said already is enough. Let us take care of you.”

As Subaru heeded those words and allowed himself to relax, he became more attuned to the warmth radiating from the supportive touch. His gaze drifted downward, drawn to the soft weight resting against his abdomen. There lay Reinhard, his perfectly sculpted face nestled close against Subaru’s chest, the expression he wore one of quiet yearning. It was as if the red-haired knight sought comfort akin to a rain-drenched puppy seeking warmth.

A sigh escaped Subaru’s lips, and with his free hand, he reached out to stroke Reinhard’s head gently. His fingers combed through the silky strands of fiery red hair, the action both calming and grounding.

“If Subaru doesn’t like this…” Julius began, his amber eyes steady and unyielding as they watched Subaru’s reaction, “…you need to tell us. Alright?”

Their restraint and reverence for Subaru’s boundaries were unwavering.

 No matter how deeply they yearned to express their affections, neither Julius nor Reinhard would allow their desires to override their care for Subaru’s comfort. Both knights understood that to honor him was to honor their own code of chivalry, and they would never tarnish either.

Subaru could sense the gentleness hidden within the simplicity of their embrace and the firm yet tender grip on his hand. It was a sincerity that resonated deeply within him, leaving no room for half-hearted decisions that might hurt the two knights who had offered him so much. He allowed a faint smile to escape when he felt the tension in the body of the world’s strongest knight—the one holding him—soften ever so slightly as Subaru’s soothing touch glided over his fiery hair. Reinhard’s eyelashes fluttered closed, and he seemed to surrender wholly to the comfort being offered.

Both Reinhard and Julius had always met Subaru with unwavering sincerity and patience. They never dismissed his words, regardless of their weight or gravity. If Subaru ever voiced hesitation or expressed his boundaries, they respected his wishes without question or reproach. They honored his autonomy as deeply as they cherished him.

Subaru didn’t dislike being loved.

Who could? Love was warmth, a balm for the soul that affirmed one’s worth. It was an experience that could melt away the harshest insecurities, enveloping the heart in a protective cocoon. 

But to give voice to his own love, to express it openly before these two extraordinary men—Julius and Reinhard—felt impossibly daunting.

It was as though he were standing on the edge of a cliff, the words caught in his throat as he teetered between fear and longing. He felt selfish, basking in the love and devotion they lavished upon him through their kind words and steadfast actions, while offering so little in return. Every time he thought about it, a pang of self-pity echoed through him. He feared that his inability to articulate his feelings might one day lead them to grow tired of him, disappointed by his shortcomings.

Yet, with each passing day, as Subaru noticed the longing in their gazes and the limitless care in their actions, he began to realize just how misguided his earlier thoughts had been.

They had never once belittled him, never diminished his worth—whether in moments of triumph or vulnerability. They always looked at him with admiration and affection, as though he were a priceless treasure they would never let slip through their fingers.

And when Subaru, in his moments of doubt or guilt, occasionally voiced his concerns, their answer was always the same:

"Our love for you isn’t your responsibility, Subaru."

Those words reverberated in his chest, leaving his heart trembling in their wake.

This time… this time, it wasn’t something he did because he thought it was his duty as their partner. It wasn’t born out of pressure or fear of disappointing them.

It was because Subaru himself longed for them just as much as Julius and Reinhard yearned for him.

In the end, even though no words of love escaped Subaru’s lips, he realized that they were no longer necessary.

That fear, creeping and insidious, gnawed at the edges of his heart with every silent moment. It whispered doubts into his mind, a relentless reminder of how fragile this happiness seemed to him.

Subaru closed his eyes, taking a deep breath as if to steel himself. When he opened them again, his dark, obsidian-like irises gleamed with newfound resolve, though a faint trace of shyness lingered at the edges.

“It’s okay…” he said, his voice steadier than he had anticipated. The decision he’d made was clear in the calmness of his tone. “Come here.”

.

.

.

.

.

The heat.

It consumed everything—his lips brushing against another’s, the friction melting into a symphony of desire. Each gentle touch felt like a slow, deliberate dance, igniting a fire that surged through him, erasing every lingering hesitation and scattering his thoughts until his mind was utterly blank.

Subaru gasped sharply as a hand, belonging to the oldest of the two men, slipped beneath the loose folds of his yukata. Long, graceful fingers glided along his ribcage with deliberate tenderness, leaving a trail of electrifying warmth wherever they roamed, each stroke more intentional than the last.

"Ugh..." Subaru bit his lip, teeth sinking into the soft flesh to stifle the embarrassing sound threatening to escape.

Julius's lips curved into a playful smirk as his hand slipped beneath the neckline of the loose yukata. With an almost maddening slowness, he began to slide the fabric down, the material gathering at Subaru's waist like the unraveling of a carefully wrapped gift.

The cool night air kissed bare skin, and Subaru shivered involuntarily. His already flushed face deepened in color, his arms instinctively pulling closer to his chest as though to shield himself. Yet, his retreat was thwarted when Julius, sitting beside him, tightened the hand that was still laced with Subaru's. Those amber eyes glittered with mischief as they lingered on Subaru’s flustered expression.

"Isn’t it a bit late to get shy now?" Julius teased, his tone light yet laced with unmistakable allure. He shifted to sit directly behind Subaru, draping himself around the smaller man like a second layer of warmth. His chin rested lightly on Subaru’s trembling shoulder, a deliberate move to support the body that looked moments away from crumbling into the futon.

"Especially considering how you strutted around without a hint of shame back in the bath and sauna," Julius murmured, his words dropping into Subaru’s ear like molten honey. "Do you have any idea how hard you made it for me and Reinhard to keep our composure back then?"

The teasing remark earned a low growl from Subaru, but it lacked any real conviction. His mind was already too scattered, every coherent thought dissolving under the onslaught of overwhelming sensations.

"T-That’s not the same…" he stammered weakly, his voice barely audible.

"How exactly is it different?" Julius’s smooth inquiry, paired with his teasing tone, left no room for retreat. He leaned closer, his warm breath brushing against Subaru’s flushed cheek before his lips followed, planting soft kisses along the curve of Subaru’s cheekbone and trailing downward. Each gentle touch sent tremors through Subaru’s body, his attempts to think clearly dissolving under the slow, deliberate pace.

Julius's hand, elegant and practiced yet ungloved for once, slid along Subaru’s waist. The faint, rhythmic motion of his fingertips against the sensitive skin made Subaru shiver. 

The younger man felt his resolve crumbling further as the soft heat of Reinhard’s touch descended along his shoulder, accompanied by the Knight of Astraea, gentle laughter.

"Not sure if you noticed, Subaru," Reinhard began, his voice a blend of playfulness and mischief, "but Julius and I spent an awfully long time counting the woodgrain in the sauna earlier." His vivid blue eyes sparkled with amusement, a rare glimpse of mischief lighting up his usually composed demeanor.

Subaru blinked, his mind struggling to process Reinhard’s words. "Oh..." he muttered, dragging out the syllable. "So that’s why Julius left the sauna early?"

The image of the two dignified knights awkwardly sitting in a steamy room, pointedly staring at the walls to distract themselves, was absurd enough to almost make Subaru laugh. Almost.

His stray thoughts were swiftly derailed as he felt a warm nibble at the edge of his ear, a deliberate and mischievous warning from Julius. The amber-eyed knight's gaze burned with a mixture of affection and desire, his lips ghosting over Subaru’s ear as he murmured, “You think this is funny, do you?”

“You’re really something else, aren’t you? Even if you don’t have much of a sense of shame, could you at least try to be a bit more careful?” Julius sighed, his tone a mixture of reprimand and genuine concern that made Subaru wince slightly.

"How was I supposed to know? Who would’ve thought you two would...would overthink something so trivial like that?" Subaru shot back, though the defensive edge in his voice gave away his embarrassment.

Ah, the cultural differences had struck again. Back in his old world, casual nudity in certain settings was normal. He hadn’t given it a second thought. But here? Clearly, it was an entirely different story.

The two knights of the kingdom had silently and unanimously decided that Subaru’s body was far from trivial. Especially considering his age, where marriage and starting a family were common expectations. The thought of anyone else catching even a glimpse of what they deemed theirs was enough to make both Reinhard and Julius feel dangerously possessive.

“Good thing it was just us in the sauna,” Reinhard remarked lightly, his voice betraying a flicker of suppressed tension. “If there had been anyone else...well...” He trailed off, but the unspoken conclusion was clear.

Subaru shivered slightly under the intensity of their gazes, even as he tried to brush it off. “Whatever. It’s not like I was trying to flaunt anything! It’s just...habit!” He fumbled to defend himself but fell silent when Julius leaned closer, his expression shifting into something unreadable.

“Would you like to know what we were thinking?” Julius asked softly, his voice deceptively calm.

Subaru’s instincts screamed at him to refuse. “Even if I say I'm not interested, you'll still say it anyway, won't you? ” He blurted out immediately, it was clear that wasn’t going to save him.

The roughened hand of the Sword Saint, calloused from years of wielding weapons, traced slow, deliberate circles around the flat plane of Subaru's abdomen. The gentle yet unyielding touch sent shivers racing through his body, forcing a stifled gasp from his lips. His back arched slightly in response, the tension in his muscles betraying the overwhelming sensations consuming him. The heat coursing through his veins felt all-encompassing, as though his very essence were being set aflame.

"Correct" Julius's soft voice cut through the haze like silk against fire, his lips curving into a faint, knowing smile. The glint in his golden eyes sparkled with a teasing delight as he watched the effect their actions had on Subaru's trembling form.

"I thought you might enjoy a little constructive feedback," he added, his tone laced with mischief, relishing in the vulnerability of his companion's sensitive reactions.

His face, already flushed with color, burned hotter when an unbidden hum escaped his throat. Julius’s lips grazed the sensitive skin behind his ear, soft yet insistent, a touch too stirring to ignore. The gentle heat of breath whispered against his skin, each word a delicate caress that sent shivers coursing through him.

“The way your back looks when I watch you from behind,” Julius murmured, his voice as smooth as velvet yet weighted with desire. “Whether you’re walking, or even just stretching without realizing it… those graceful curves leading down—do you know how much I want to capture them, preserve them in a painting?”

The words embedded themselves deeply into Subaru’s already spiraling thoughts. It was as if he could see Julius’s gaze in his mind’s eye, lingering, tracing over every inch of him with an intensity that devoured and adored in equal measure. A sense of vulnerability laced with undeniable heat coiled within him, leaving him breathless against the onslaught of sensations.

"And this..." Julius murmured, his voice smooth and intimate as his slender finger traced a deliberate path along Subaru's throat, gliding over his Adam's apple and the ridge of his collarbone before coming to rest in the center of his chest.

"When you breathe... the curve of your sternum is exquisite. Look at it. Do you see?" His fingertip pressed lightly against the spot, as if to emphasize his words, the touch gentle but charged with intent. The soft whisper of his voice seemed less like a comment and more like an invitation, guiding Subaru to discover his own body through Julius's eyes.

"Damn it... That's so inappropriate," Subaru grumbled, his voice trembling with embarrassment and a hint of suppressed tension. His eyes squeezed shut, as if trying to escape the overwhelming sensations. Yet, the quiver in his words betrayed something deeper—a mix of protest and reluctant surrender to the tenderness that unraveled him so completely.

The other knight watched the display of vulnerability with visible delight, his steady hand gently resting on Subaru’s trembling knee before slowly prying them apart. Soft blue eyes, brimming with adoration, never wavered from Subaru as the edges of the yukata slipped higher, revealing smooth, flushed skin along his thighs—a sight that sent the knight’s pulse racing.

“Don’t close your eyes just yet,” Reinhard murmured, his voice husky and low. His warm hand slid along the tender skin of Subaru’s thigh, his touch deliberate and teasing, before giving a gentle squeeze. The subtle pressure carried a boldness that made Subaru question whether this could truly be the same kind-hearted Reinhard he knew.

Subaru cracked one eye open reluctantly, his breath hitching. He hastily brought his hands up to shield his burning face, stammering out, “W-where did you even learn to say something like that?”

Peeking through his fingers, his gaze darted accusingly toward the more likely culprit, his flushed features tinged with mild reproach.

“Julius… I told you not to give him strange books! He’s… he’s pure, for crying out loud!”

Julius’s lips curled into a mischievous smile, the amber hue of his eyes gleaming with amusement. “Strange books? It was merely a mature romance novel for reference. Don’t you like it?”

“Don’t use it as a reference in real life!”

The knight, impeccable in every aspect, leaned in to place a gentle kiss on his flustered lover’s cheek—a subtle gesture to encourage him to calm down.

“You’re just not used to hearing things like this,” Julius whispered, his voice smooth and teasing, brushing his lips closer to Subaru’s ear. “Perhaps I should find another book for you to read.”

Subaru flinched slightly, the overwhelming emotions coursing through him eliciting a soft, unintentional whimper. His deep, expressive eyes brimmed with unshed tears, while his crimson-flushed face only added to his disarmingly adorable demeanor—so irresistibly endearing that it made one want to simply devour him whole.

“But for now… you’ll just have to endure the practical lessons,” Julius continued, his tone dripping with charm and mischief. He tightened the embrace around Subaru’s slender waist, letting his words linger in the intimate air between them.

Reinhard, ever the epitome of tenderness, offered a small smile before leaning in to press a gentle, featherlight kiss on Subaru’s trembling lips.

“I suppose we’ll have to take our lessons very seriously, don’t you think, Subaru?”

Still ensnared in the embrace of the two knights, Subaru’s mind raced as his body betrayed him—heat radiating from his face, now as hot as molten lava flowing within him. The thunderous pounding of his heart echoed so loudly in his chest that it rendered him utterly speechless.

If I survive until tomorrow morning, he silently vowed, I’ll make sure to pay them back for this tenfold.

But tonight seemed destined to stretch far longer than Subaru had ever anticipated…

end.........