williamroute

[williamroute]

William Rex Blind Love Route Ch.24

Grimsley: Is that the woman who protected you at the Tower of London? In the report, I heard you held her in your arms lovingly. But I certainly didn’t think you’d bring her here. She must be very special to you… Lord William Rex.

Grimsley, still with his hat pulled down, showed no fear over William’s powers. All I could see was his mouth, smiling confidently like he was sure this situation would turn in his favor.

William: …Your instincts are spot-on, which is rare for you, Grimsley. This is my partner, who’s very important to me. If you don’t treat her kindly, you’ll regret it.

Grimsley: Ha! So even monsters have human feelings. I’m relieved. There’s no point in standing around talking. Come closer.

Still holding my arms behind my back, he dragged me into a first-class car. I should’ve been more careful when I jumped onto the train… I guess being a proper bodyguard does require more foresight and training. I was a mess of emotions- anger at this situation, fear of the uncertain outcome… and concern for William’s safety, all swirled inside of me.

Grimsley: Woman, you stay over here. There’s no telling what might happen if Rex controls you.

…Or you can let go of me and see what I can do on my own. Grimsley jerked his chin, motioning for the guard to take me. The man shoved me into a corner seat and pressed the barrel of a gun against my chest.

Grimsley: Not so fast, Rex. One more step and I’ll have to kill the lady.

William stood in the doorway of the train car, a grimace set across his face. Okay, calm down and think. There’s a way out of this… William won’t just give up on punishing Grimsley. He won’t go down without a fight. What grimsley had done was more than enough for William to deem as unforgivable. There was no way he would let him go. Even if I get shot here, he’ll take Grimsley down without hesitation. And I’ll have done my job in helping him achieve his self-righteousness. I clenched my hands into fists as I observed the guard who restrained me.

Bandaged Guard: Haah… Haah…

The guard had a bandage wrapped tightly around his head, covering both ears, and he panted with bloodshot eyes. Grimsley said before that he “made it so he couldn’t hear”... So the reason for the bandages over his ears… A chill ran down my spine when I realized what Grimsley must’ve done.

William: That poor fellow seems to have gone mad.

…What?

William: I never thought that you, a former member of the Privy Council, would be involved in drugs… But no wonder you’re so weak against the members of the Butterfly. You must be friends who drink the nectar from the same flower, aren’t you?

Grimsley: What?! You’re comparing me to those vulgar people who make the drugs? It doesn’t even hurt that much and those fools can’t move! This is just to get them to spring into action, and nothing more! It’s the same as giving a racehorse a shot so they’ll perform!

How despicable. He’d turned a blind eye to the Golden Butterfly discarding the poor as if they were trash. He used the citizens as mere pawns to frame William. And now he even abused and injured his own bodyguards. Nausea welled up inside of me at the thought of all his evil deeds.

Grimsley: However, it seems you don’t understand the situation if you can run your mouth like that.

Grimsley pointed his gun at William. Don’t you dare-

William: ……

Grimsley: No, I said don’t move! Take one step and I’ll shoot that foolish woman dead.

Grimsley gave a triumphant smile, although he still hid his face with his hat, afraid of William’s power.

Grimsley: Don’t worry, I won’t let you die easily. First I want to make you suffer. Taste the humiliation and fear of death to your heart’s content, and then die in pain. Because if I don’t, then all those you executed won’t be satisfied.

William: It’s almost like you’re saying this is for the sake of those who died. No one will blame you if you say it’s solely for your own pleasure, you know.

Grimsley: I’m going to rip out that wagging tongue of yours before you die!

William won’t just let himself get shot. At least, not by this vile excuse for a man… So why is he hesitating? Allowing himself to be killed by someone he deemed innocent was his own self-serving justice. But this… I was on the verge of ascertaining what was making me feel so uneasy. My mind raced, trying to figure it out. I don’t understand… If it’s just his hat that’s blocking William’s powers, he could do something about it so easily. So why isn’t he moving? All he has to do is close the distance between them and snatch off Grimsley’s hat. So why doesn’t he?

~~~~

William: If anyone ever appears who means to do you harm… whether that person is righteous or not, I will use whatever means necessary… to protect you.

~~~~

Wait, what if… William isn’t making a move because he’s trying to protect me?

Grimsley: …I’ll explain the situation better so you can understand.

Fresh blood splattered onto the luxurious carpet. I tried to jump up, but the guard’s grip kept me down and the barrel of his gun dug deeper into the center of my chest.

William: It seems when you go hunting, you do nothing more than prance about playing. Because you’re quite skilled at missing the vital points.

Grimsley: Hmm, so you have a high pain tolerance, do you?

William…! I felt the blood drain from my face. Where… Where did he get hit? My gaze swept over William’s body, trying to locate it. The well-tailored fabric near his thigh was torn and wet, and my breath caught in my throat. Why didn’t you move?! I lifted my gaze, wanting to know his true intentions.

William: ……

I met his mysterious gaze, his eyes tinged with heat. He looked at me sweetly, as if in wait.

Avalon: …Oh!

His eyes flashed with expectations, desire, and something so alluring… my heart violently skipped a beat and my pulse throbbed hotly all through my body. That’s right. William wants to see my end. But he doesn’t want it to be like this.

~~~~

William I don’t want to see you die from any other reason besides protecting me from my destiny. It must be your own will that decorates your end.

~~~~

Had William disobeyed Grimsley’s warning and acted, I would’ve been killed without hesitation. William doesn’t want that kind of end for me.

Grimsley: I can’t wait to see your beautiful face distorted and writhing in pain.

Grimsley cocked his gun for another shot. William smiled calmly, seemingly accepting the situation. He smiled, as if to ask me… “Well, Avalon? What are you going to do?” William… Even though this was such a critical situation… The heat of his gaze pouring into me gave me a sensation of thrilling pleasure. It only made sense, after all. Because I knew I was the only person in the entire world who could fulfill his desire. I’m sorry that I let you get hurt. And thank you for protecting me. I bit my lip and stared at Grimsley’s back. But I made a promise to both you and myself. I will protect you, William. I slipped my hand into my pocket and wrapped my fingers around the hilt of the knife. Grimsley most likely thought I was nothing more than a pawn, and that I posed no threat. But what would only work to my advantage. I’m the closest one to the enemy right now… Obviously, I’m a threat.

The rumor about William being so carefree that he went to the theatre had provoked Grimsley… and made him come out of hiding. Grimsley’s weakness is the fact that he was ousted and abandoned by the queen. He’s got too much pride, and now it’s wounded. So to distract him, I need to wound it some more.

Avalon: …You’re quite the coward, Lord Grimsley. You can’t even look William in the eye.

Grimsley: …What?

A hint of discomfort and confusion colored Grimsley’s voice. So he won’t turn around? Still, I’m sure his attention is away from William right now. So I need to keep it that way.

Grimsley: You seem like a brave young woman. Poor thing, being deceived by such a villain… But you’re foolish. Staying by his side even though you know it won’t lead to your happiness. Maybe I’ll comfort you once I torture this man to death.

Avalon: That’s a kind proposal… But I’ll have to decline. You’re not capable of torturing William to death. And I’ll be happy as long as I can love him until my dying breath.

I spoke in an attempt to provoke him, but my genuine feelings seeped out.

Avalon: What about you? Is there even one person in this world who truly loves you?

Grimsley’s shoulders trembled with irritation.

Grimsley: Shut that loudmouth woman up!

Grimsley banged his cane on the floor.

Avalon: L-ley go!

The guard grabbed me by the neck with his free hand.

Avalon: You’re such a simple man, lettinga ‘loudmouth woman’ provoke and anger you. But I’d rather die than have you comfort me!

Grimsley: …This is why I despise women like you! You pretend to be sweet and kind, but deep down you’re all the same! You’re deplorable!

Avalon: You’re the one… who’s deplorable…

Look at me. Come on, just for one second. Turn around and come here!

Avalon: You’re so… disgusting… and cowardly… No wonder Her Majesty… abandoned you. The most virtuous member… of the Privy Council…? Don’t make me laugh!

Grimsley: How dare you!

My consciousness grew faint, breathing restricted, but if I attacked the guard, I’d lose my shot at our true target. And then finally… Grimsley turned around. I did it. We got you, you coward. My fingers tightened around the hilt of my knife, pulling it from its sheath-

Grimsley: What are you doing?! Strangle the life out of her and shut her u-

Grimsley’s shouts were interrupted. Bright red liquid exploded everywhere.

Grimsley: Wh… at…?

However, instead of my knife, a sword pierced right through the middle of Grimsley’s body. The blade tore upward through him, spreading the blood spatter throughout the cabin.

Grimsley: Gaaaaaaaahhh?!

William: The queen herself gave me this sword, and it’s been a long time since it tasted blood.

Soaked with blood, William smiled as he whispered into Grimsley’s ear.

William: You should be honored, Your Excellency.

His voice was brutal, cold, filled with anger and hatred. My heart throbbed with a dull pain. It was like William had put all of his feelings into that blade.

Grimsley: Bwaha… Hahaha… Argh… Hahaha…!

Huh? What is he laughing at…? Grimsley’s maddened smile gave me chills.

Grimsley: This is the end…! My corpse… will leave traces of you…! This sword… will prove you killed me… And expose your crimes!

…What?

Grimsley: Take your punishment… Your reward…! You and the rest of Crown! Hahahaha!

Grimsley slumped to the floor with a high-pitched laugh and then stopped moving.

Bandaged Guard: Aaaaaah!

Avalon: Huh!?

The bodyguard, stunned at the sight of his master’s death, forgot about me. He screamed, suddenly coming to his senses, and pointed his gun at William. No- not here and not now. I pulled the knife from my pocket. It glinted white from the sunlight that shone inside the train car.

~~~~

It didn’t matter who it was. I shouldn’t be involved in a world where pointing a knife at someone was commonplace.

~~~~

The words I thought once resurfaced in my mind. But between that day he gave me this knife and now… I held it in my hands because of my own free will. This is my answer.

Bandaged Guard: Arrghh!

I swung the knife and slashed the guard’s arm, driving it deep. His face contorted with pain and he dropped his gun. Then another blade, stained with wet crimson, flashed in front of my face. William…

Bandaged Guard: Ahh, ughh… H-help me…

Stabbed through, the bodyguard fell to the ground, moaning for help. William raised an eyebrow, thrusting his sword further into the man.

William: Depending on how you perceive it… You too must be a pitiful victim who’s been deprived of your freedom. But regrettably, you hurt my robin.

Bandaged Guard: Ahhh!

William: So unfortunately for you… You’re guilty. And I can’t let you get away with it.

The roar of the train drowned out the screams. The crimson spray of blood droplets fell like petals scattered in the wind.

~~~~

The only sound was the rhythmic ka-thunk of the train traveling around the tracks.

Avalon: William…!

William: Avalon… Are you hurt?

William walked over to me the moment I pushed myself up.

Avalon: I’m fine. Let me see where you were shot!

William: Settle down. It’ll take a lot more than this to kill me.

Avalon: Oh, I’m sure it will, but that doesn’t solve this issue now!

He was so soaked with blood that his fine leather shoes left bloody footprints in the carpet. He’s bleeding so much… Even if it wouldn’t kill him right away, it has to be dangerous. Roger said that gunshot wounds need to be tended to right away.

Avalon: Just let me stop the bleeding. Sit down over there.

I used my knife to cut a long strip of fabric from my underskirt and folded my handkerchief into padding, pressing it onto his wound. I need to do everything I can to stop the bleeding. I secured the handkerchief in place and tied the fabric above it tightly, buying us at least a bit more time.

William: Avalon…

He reached out to touch my cheek.

Avalon: William… Mmm…

The moment I lifted my face, he pressed his lips against mine.

William: A reward for my knight, who did so well. No, I take that back… My queen.

I reached up, threading my fingers into his silver hair, and kissed the praise from his lips. The air of tragedy still hung thickly in the air in the bloody train car. And here I was, almost drunk with a deviant sense of happiness, as if intoxicated by some sort of sweet honey.

William: You’re even more beautiful now… than that night at the Tower of London, Avalon.

He stroked my cheek soothingly with the back of his hand, his eyes softened with affection. …I want to bathe in the heat of this gaze forever. However, I could still hear Grimsley’s final words echoing in my mind.

~~~~

Grimsley: My corpse… will leave traces of you…! This sword… will prove you killed me… And expose your crimes! Take your punishment… Your reward…! You and the rest of Crown!

~~~~

Avalon: What are we going to do now?

William: Hmm. If we get off at the station, people will notice.

William wiped the blood off his sword and sheathed it. Then he flashed me a mischievous smile.

William: It will probably be wise to get off the train on the way.

…On the way? Normally, the trains don’t stop until they arrive at the next station. And if it’s too dangerous to get off at the station, then…

Avalon: You think we should jump off?

William: That’s my clever little robin. You catch on quickly.

Avalon: But you’re injured. Are you sure you can do it?

William: I’ll be fine. We’ll leave with nothing but a few scratches if we can wait to jump until the train has slowed down.

William shrugged his shoulders as if it were no big deal. No way… I can’t believe we’re going to jump off a speeding train. It’s dangerous, and we’re going to get hurt. But most of all… it’s like we’re fugitives or something.

Avalon: …This is kind of exciting.

William: Ahaha!

My heart was pounding wildly in my chest. William opened the door to the back of the train car and wind gushed in as the scenery flew past. The train slowed down slightly as it approached an uphill curve.

William: Come, my darling robin.

I took his outstretched hand and he pulled me close. My body trembled with joy when he embraced me. William was right here with me. So whatever happened in the next seconds of my life was trivial in comparison.

William: Now, are you ready?

Avalon: Ready when you are.

William’s eyes narrowed with satisfaction. I steadied my nerves and prepared for the impact. And William’s black overcoat wrapped around me like a shield…

[williamroute]

William Rex Blind Love Route Ch.23

A series of high-pitched, dry sounds split through the air.

William: Watch out.

What was that?! For a few seconds everything was quiet, as if time had stopped.

Citizen: Aaaaaaaaahhh!

I heard a high-pitched scream, and then the station erupted into a chaotic mess.

Avalon: Were those gunshots?

William: …It’s him.

Him… Reflexively, I jumped out in front of William. Where is he?! I looked around and saw a man wearing a top hat low over his eyes, surrounded by gun-toting guards. He held a smoking pistol in his hand. He shot right into a crowd?! I could only see him intermittently as the crowd kept getting in the way… but it seemed like the person who’d gotten shot was a well-dressed man, who was groaning and crouched in the street.

Grimsley: You… Where are the pursuers?!

Injured Man: I don’t know what… Ahhh!

William: …Grimsley mistook him for a pursuer and shot him.

He’s that reckless?!

Avalon: What in the world…

William: I had a feeling they’d pull their guns out even in a crowd if they felt threatened, but…

Florist: Hattie! Why did this happen… Someone! Please get a doctor!

Hattie? The familiar name made my whole body tremble. I looked over in the direction of the screams and saw the little girl who’d been selling flowers lying on the ground. What? Oh no… Was she hit by one of the stray bullets?! There’d been multiple gunshots. But why…? I was stunned as the station staff rushed over to carry the girl out. How could this have happened? Even though William had committed crimes and bloodied his hands in order to protect others… that little girl who’d finally regained her freedom only had it ripped away again in an instant. But the thing that had made Grimsley pull the trigger… was fear of being pursued. In other words, it was his fear of William. The fact that William was going to punish him for his evil deeds threatened him… and made him pull the trigger. “The Self-Righteous Monarch is destined to be destroyed by their own ferocity.” If this was his destiny, to atone for the sins he had committed… then all of the things he’d done to protect others, all those sins he committed, would be in vain. My emotions a total mess, I found myself turning to look at him.

Avalon: Ah!

I gasped. Anger emanated from him, so sharp it could pierce my skin. His silence spoke of his murderous intent more eloquently than any words could express. He was not the type of person to lose himself in pessimism. Regrets of the past and fears of the future did not hold him back. William just stared coldly ahead. He stared at the unforgivable evil that’d just transpired. William… A chilling feeling welled up from deep inside of me. Maybe… I’m cursed too. Even though I’ve witnessed this sense of malice from him many times, and even though I sensed the shadow of his destruction… And even though he would quell evil with his overwhelming power… I still loved and supported him, from the bottom of my heart. And I must protect him. Despite his sins, despite his evil. I will protect all of him. I have to, for William, and for the things I want to protect. I kept my eyes forward, steeping myself in the pain, sadness, anger, all of it.

William: …Avalon. Let’s go. It’s time to dance with the root of all evil.

William stepped forward against the wave of people heading for the exit. I reached into my pocket and confirmed that the golden knife was still there. William’s silver hair caught the light, glinting in the crowd. It didn’t go unnoticed by Grimsley.

Grimsley: William Rex!

He still wore his hat down low, perhaps afraid of William’s gaze.

Grimsley: Stop him! Don’t let him on the train, no matter what!

He shouted orders at his guards while he and another one ran toward the train platform. No! There were at least ten guards pushing against the crowd, heading straight toward us. It was such an overwhelming sight and yet I was ready to face it. There are still a lot of people left inside the station. I don’t want anyone else to get hurt. What should we do?

William: Avalon.

Avalon: Yes?

William: We’ll follow Grimsley at a short distance. Don’t worry about anything else.

Avalon: Huh? What do you-

Before I could finish my question, I saw some of the guards begin to panic and break formation.

Bodyguard: Wh-what’s going on?!

The other guards braced themselves when they saw their comrade silently collapse on the ground.

Ellis: Do you know the person who shot that gun?

Bodyguard: Huh? Argh!

Jude: Ya don’t gotta ask ‘em one by one! As if ya don’t already know the answer.

Ellis and Jude!

Bodyguard: You bastards! Do you work with William Rex?!

Jude: Huh? You blind or somethin’? We’re just ordinary citizens.

Ellis: We heard there was violence at the station so we came to help.

Jude: Ha, bet we’ll even get a letter o’ appreciation from ‘em coppers!

It didn’t look like they were making any big movements, but they were certainly doing something… because the bodyguards around the two men began to fall like dominoes.

Bodyguard: Wh-who are these guys?!

Thanks to Jude and Ellis, the guards were confused. If the police were here, they wouldn’t know who to arrest. I glanced at them and continued running through the station.

William: Avalon, duck.

Avalon: Huh?

All of a sudden, William touched the back of my head and I looked down at the floor. Right after that, the dull sound of metal colliding echoed behind me.

Bodyguard: There’s more of them?!

Alfons: Oh, I’ve got nothing to do with them. I saw you carrying something very dangerous and my hand just slipped is all.

Alfons! I turned around and saw Alfons shrugging as he blocked the man’s gun with his sword’s scabbard.

Alfons: I picked up a note in the crowd. Do you know what ‘Platform 4, Flying Dutchman, first-class car charter’ means?

Bodyguard: H-how did you…?!

That’s the information about the train Grimsley is boarding! Thank you, Alfons! We took advantage of the confusion the members of Crown created for us and slipped past the wall of guards. A distant whistle signaled that we were running out of time. We have to hurry!

Bodyguard: Stop them!!

Avalon: Ah…!

Both fear and thrill washed over me as I heard footsteps behind us. But my legs didn’t stop. The sound of William’s footsteps running next to me kept me going.

Bodyguard: We won’t let you escape!

Two guards pointed guns at William and Avalon as they ran towards the train platform.

Guards: Huh?!

And suddenly they froze. One of them felt a muzzle at the back of their head, while the other felt a sharp blade against their neck.

Harrison: This is the police.

Elbert: …Put your hands up.

Bodyguard: N-no way! The police wouldn’t…

Harrison: The police wouldn’t make a move because Grimsley pulled strings with them? Yeah, that’s true. But we’ve got people with the police too. Sometimes I’m actually very honest and don’t lie about my feelings.

Bodyguard: W-wait, you mean…

Harrison: Haha, that’s right. Now. Am I telling the truth, or am I lying?

Bodyguard: A-are you a police officer too?! But why would a police officer threaten someone with a sword?!

Elbert: …I have something to ask you.

Bodyguard: Wh-what is it?

Elbert: What were you going to do to her just now? Will you answer me honestly? Depending on your answer… it might hurt a little bit.

Bodyguard: A-ahhh!

~~~~

The moment we rushed to platform number four… Steam billowed out of the chimney, and the locomotive whistled and slowly began to roll forward.

Avalon: William, the train is-!

William: Looks like it’s departing earlier than scheduled. Grimsley must’ve threatened the conductor. It seems like he’s quite impatient.

Avalon: What should we do?!

The doors of each car are closed, so how do we get in…!?

William: We’ll have to jump.

Avalon: Is that even possible?!

We ran side by side and he shifted his gaze to the train.

William: I don’t mind if you stay behind if you’re afraid.

Avalon: Oh, absolutely not!

Of course I’m scared to jump on a moving train, but…

Avalon: I’m much more scared that you’ll be hurt when I’m not with you!

William: ……

Avalon: Plus… I told you I don’t mind thrilling situations, remember?

William: …Apparently.

William hopped up onto the train coupling as lightly as if he were dancing. There was no way I couldn’t follow him. Time to muster up every bit of madness Crown had built up inside me.

Avalon: Here goes!

I closed my eyes and took the plunge. I heard a clang! As my shoes struck the iron step. I made it! I was about to lift my face in relief when…

William: -Avalon!

What?! Somehow, I couldn’t move. Wh-what’s going on?! Someone had grabbed me and was holding my arms behind my back. And a hard object was pressed against my temple. It’s a gun… A chill ran down my spine.

William: Put down the gun.

William’s voice coldly rang out, issuing the command. However, the cold metal feeling didn’t pull away from my skin. …Why? Why isn’t William’s power working?

???: Haha! It’s no use! It’s because I made it so he couldn’t hear!

The train car door opened. A man with a mustache appeared, wearing his hat over his eyes. Grimsley…!

Grimsley: It was the right decision to hide in the second-class vehicle. I never thought you would bring a woman.

William: ……

Grimsley: Is that the woman who protected you at the Tower of London? In the report, I heard you held her in your arms lovingly. But I certainly didn’t think you’d bring her here. She must be very special to you… Lord William Rex.

[williamroute]

William Rex Blind Love Route Ch.22

Liam: Thank you so much for coming today!

The curtain fell on Liam’s performance, enveloping him with applause.

Avalon: Liam’s performance was amazing!

Harrison: Careful, if you praise him too much he might be so happy he’ll never let you go.

Avalon: Haha. Well, I can’t have that, but I will tell him how much I enjoyed it. His facial expressions and gestures made him seem like he was a completely different person! But his emotions and lines felt so genuine. It was like I was watching someone who’d never been Liam in the first place.

William: Yes, well… Liam is very good at erasing himself. A little too good sometimes.

Avalon: What does that mean?

William: You’ll understand if you get to know him better.

…I see. I guess being able to stay by William’s side… means I’ll get to know everyone else in Crown better too.

Avalon: I suppose you’re right. I’d love to talk to everyone more from now on.

Harrison: Well, shall we go to the dressing room?

The dressing room?!

Avalon: C-can we?

William: Of course. We’re friends of the actor, after all.

Avalon: I’d love to!

~~~~

I was thrilled to see the dressing rooms for the first time and, despite the warning, I couldn’t help showering Liam with praise for his performance. After that, we left the theatre without incident.

~~~~

Within a few days, we began to notice a suspicious person lurking around William while he was out, just as we expected. Since Liam had the ability to disappear and was therefore perfect for tailing, he was entrusted with the tracking mission. Grimsley was clearly being cautious and used several liaisons as intermediaries in an attempt to not be tracked. But the situation was still only one move away from checkmate. That was, until just before dawn when Liam came back, injured.

Avalon: Liam, are you okay?!

William and I rushed into the basement after hearing the news. Roger was there, along with Harrison who’d been helping Liam tail Grimsley’s henchman. I gasped when I saw that Liam’s clothes were stained with blood.

William: …Were you shot?

Liam: Ah… haha… Sorry to make trouble and wake you at dawn like this. My injuries aren’t that serious. Look, I’m fine. We have to hurry. Grimsley is-

Harrison: Calm down! You’ll make your wounds worse.

Liam looked very pale and was trying to stand up with a smile plastered to his face… but Harrison stopped him, gently pushing him back onto the exam table.

Roger: You were about to have another one of your fits, weren’t you?

Liam: I…

Roger: And there must’ve been signs, but you hid it from us.

Fits…?

I wasn’t sure what they were talking about, but I held my questions for now so I wouldn’t interrupt.

William: There’s no need to apologize or identify the cause. What’s the current situation?

Harrison: Our plan’s been exposed. I was waiting outside while Liam concealed himself and went to investigate the inn. But they heard a noise coming from nowhere and shot. As you can see, they drew blood. I’m certain Grimsley figured out it had something to do with ‘the Cursed’, so he knows we’re involved.

William: And how did he react?

Harrison: In a panic. I could hear him yelling all the way from outside. He was airing his grievances against Her Majesty, saying this country was over, and so on.

…So Grimsley’s realized that Crown has come to target him. Harrison told us that Grimsley was yelling about how he’d been “abandoned by the queen”. So in other words…

William: The possibility that he’ll try to flee the country is very high.

The thing we feared most was about to happen.

William: Let’s get to work. Liam, you focus on your recovery.

Liam: …I’m sorry.

I’ve never seen Liam like this before. Normally he was always so cheerful and boisterous. Just looking at him was enough to raise your spirits. He was usually the brightest shining star, but right now he seemed like a different person. His rose-colored eyes had a dark shadow cast over them, like an impending rainstorm.

Liam: …I’ll do my best. I promise next time I won’t screw up. I won’t make another mistake. I’ll be better. I won’t mess up.

There was a smile on his face, but it was fragile- like even the slightest stimulus could destroy it. While I was at a loss for what to say, William walked over to the examination table and gently stroked Liam’s hair.

William: No matter what you can do or what you can’t do, you are my dear friend. Your hard-working nature is one of your best attributes, and you’re free to strive harder. But I don’t want to see you hurting over such a thing.

Liam: …Okay.

Harrison: It’s not like this is the first time you’ve been hurt during a mission. And you’re not the only one. It’s happened to us too. You’ll be fine. Don’t worry too much about it. We’ll get through this.

Liam: Y-yeah, you’re right. Ahaha. That’s my partner!

There was something deeply hurting Liam. It was painfully clear. Liam said before that the fate of his curse was to be killed by curiosity. They’d mentioned some kind of recurring “fits” and Harrison hadn’t been surprised by the injury. …How many times has this happened because of the nature of his curse? I’d just caught a glimpse of the tragic end that awaited him, hadn’t I? The one that his curse made him head toward… I may not be able to fully understand the suffering of being cursed. My words may not have the power to encourage Liam like William’s or Harrison’s. But…

Avalon: …Liam.

Liam: Yes…?

Avalon: Thank you for taking on such a dangerous mission. I promise we’ll capture Grimsley, no matter what. It’s all because of your hard work that we were able to locate him. So… Take care, okay?

Liam: …Oh! …Okay. I will. Thanks.

At first, the members of Crown had terrified me. But now I’d fallen for one and made some genuine friends among them. And Liam was just a man being tortured by a merciless reality.

Roger: C’mon, now. Enough of the sentimental nonsense. It’s time for me to disinfect your wounds. If I don’t treat them properly, they’ll just keep getting worse.

Liam: What’s with that timing? Honestly, Dr. Roger, you have no bedside manner at all!

Roger stayed behind to treat Liam, but the rest of us left without waiting for dawn. I thought we were going to the inn where Liam had been shot… but William had a different destination in mind.

~~~~

The area around the train station was teeming with people even though it was only just after dawn. There was a worker who carried cargo, a nobleman dreaming about his travel destination, a street vendor and a shoe polisher… I looked around cautiously at the hustle and bustle, which seemed like a microcosm of London.

Avalon: …Why did Grimsley come to the station?

William: He’s not foolish enough to cower in a safe house that Crown has already breached. And I’m sure he knows that staying in England means certain death. We know he’s trying to flee the country, so how would he do that? He’d have to use a boat at this point. And what else do you think of besides London Harbor when you think of a ship? But unfortunately for him, Victor’s already ensured he won’t be able to book passage on any ship out of London.

When did he do that…?

William: Besides, if your life depends on a long ship voyage, you’d turn to someone you can trust.

Avalon: There certainly isn’t any escape once you’re out at sea.

William: According to Jude, ships from a trading company run by Grimsley’s relatives are sailing in and out of Bristol Harbor. If I were going to Bristol, I would choose the Great Western Railway. And as long as your pursuers aren’t on the same train, it’s possible to put a lot of distance between you and them. That’s my guess. As a safety measure, I have Ethan and the others keeping an eye on London Harbor and other stations.

Avalon: I see. And that’s why we’re here, to cut him off before he can get on the ship in Bristol.

William: Exactly, my robin.

I think William’s guess is probably correct. And in that case, Grimsley must be inside the station. So we need to be careful.

I cautiously stepped into the station, paying close attention to my surroundings. Alfons and Elbert went to “borrow” the passenger list. Meanwhile, Jude, Ellis, Harrison, and William and I… split up to look for our target. There are so many people here… I stole a glance at William, who stood next to me. Grimsley must be wary of us, too. William stands out a lot as well… Is this really a wise idea? William made no attempt to conceal himself; he was boldly scanning the crowd. But if he’s acting calm, then it should be fine. But if someone unsavory just happens to spot us first… I rustled with a newspaper I’d bought, wondering if maybe I could spread it out and conceal him… A foolish idea, but it’d at least be something.

William: Are you trying to hide me?

Avalon: Yes… Although I don’t know how effective it will be.

William: Pfft, haha!

The melody of his deep chuckle shivered through me. He’s laughing. I know it’s dumb, but it’s all I have on hand at the moment. And it’s not like I have powers that could make us invisible.

Avalon: I’m sure there’s a better way, but I can’t think of it…

William: Oh no, there’s not.

He reached out and placed his hand over mine.

William: That’s right. I laughed. I couldn’t help it. Not when I have such an adorable shield.

Adorable…

Avalon: Is it useful?

William: Yes, of course. I want you to know that everything you do for my sake will be useful.

Avalon: Haha. Now, I know that’s an exaggeration!

William: It’s not, though. So…

Avalon: …What are you doing?

William bent down a little and put his lips to my ear. His breath grazed against my skin as he whispered in a sweet, poison-like voice.

William: I’d be happy if you could continue to be my shield.

His shield… A shiver went through my body, right down to my core. That was my own wish that I’d forced on him… But if that’s what he wants… If that will make him happy… I have only one answer.

Avalon: Of course… With pleasure.

William: That’s exactly what I expected my little robin to say.

Avalon: Mm…

William kissed me behind the newspaper. W-wait, we shouldn’t… Not now… But then a sweet numbness hit my body and my reason began to crumble.

Avalon: …We shouldn’t do this. Not here, when we’re on a mission.

William: That’s exactly why we should do it. My robin loves a thrill, remember?

Avalon: William…

William: But it’s true that we have to be careful not to miss our target.

He looked down at me with satisfaction and then pulled away. I would’ve liked this from the start, but… when he acts like this it just makes me want it more. I somehow managed to calm my racing heartbeat and looked over the newspaper at the hustle and bustle.

Avalon: Do you think we can really find him out here?

William: We don’t have to find him at the station. All we have to do is get information from Alfons and Elbert and get on the same train. In fact… We should probably avoid contact with him within the station as much as possible.

Avalon: I suppose, better to avoid the commotion…

Just then, I heard a voice.

???: …Excuse me.

Who is that?

Flustered, I lifted my face to see a blue bellflower swaying in front of me. Wow… It’s beautiful. A young girl with freckles was holding it. Oh, there’s a cartful of wagons behind her. I guess she’s selling them?

Girl Selling Flowers: Please take it. You don’t have to pay.

Avalon: What?

Girl Selling Flowers: I want to give it to you.

William: ……

Avalon: Um… May I ask why?

Girl Selling Flowers: I heard you talking as you passed by, and I thought his voice sounded like someone who took care of me.

Someone who took care of her…? Oh! Maybe…

~~~~

Girl’s Voice: I dream of growing flowers. I decided as soon as I get out of here, I’ll grow some on my own. I won’t go back to my aunt and uncle’s house again.

William: …That’s a very nice wish.

Girl’s Voice: If I notice your voice in town, do you mind if I give you flowers? Even if it’s just one?

William: Thank you for the offer, but your words alone are enough for me.

Girl’s Voice: …I understand. Um…

William: Yes?

Girl’s Voice: …Thank you.

~~~~

Is it that girl? Come to think of it, I thought the girl’s voice sounded very similar… to the one who was recuperating in the hospital after being a victim of human trafficking. And if it’s really her… Then the wish she told William about, to grow flowers, came true. How wonderful for her. She looked so much healthier now, with a smile on her face. Seeing her hold that flower filled me with joy. But I shouldn’t let it show on my face. If she was the same girl, she couldn’t know that William was her benefactor. He wants her to be free. He doesn’t want to have to silence her. And if I tell her now, then his act of not opening the door at the hospital will be in vain.

William: You have the wrong person. Unfortunately, I’m not interested in flowers.

Girl Selling Flowers: O-oh, really…

The dejected look on her face made my heart ache.

Florist: Hattie! Come over here and help me!

Girl Selling Flowers: Ah, yes! I’ll be right there! I’m sorry I bothered you.

The girl trotted over to the cart, where she and the older woman resumed selling flowers together. …It looks like fun. The happiness inside of me swelled once again when I saw their carefree smiles. I stole a glance at William to see his reaction… And he had that familiar look on his face- the smile like spring rain. He lied and pushed away her attempts at showing her gratitude… because he rejoiced in her freedom and wished for her happiness. Perhaps it was him being self-righteous and selfish. But even if it was… I hope she’s happy, and I also wish for her freedom.

Avalon: Those were some beautiful flowers, weren’t they?

William: Any flower would be beautiful after being raised in such a lovely environment.

Avalon: Mm, that’s true.

I looked at him and smiled, but then… A merciless, explosive sound cut through the air.

[williamroute]

William Route Devotion and Affection

Avalon: As long as I’m by your side, I won’t be unhappy. I will live freely until the end. So… Please let me protect you.

Avalon smiled when she said her happiness lay in her undying love. She’d jumped in front of the knife without a hint of hesitation. If that’s what she wanted… If that’s what she chose with her own free will… Then I would reach out to her and commit the one sin I vowed I never would.

~~~~

William: I knew you’d be a quick learner.

Avalon: That’s because you’re a good teacher.

When I taught her how to move the chess pieces and how to get a checkmate, she listened with sparkling eyes, absorbing all the information and asking more questions.

Avalon: You’re good at helping me enjoy the fun things in life.

William: Thank you for the compliment. I’m honored.

I took a sip of my wine and dropped my gaze, and I could feel her eyes following me.

~~~~

William: Is there something… you’d like to ask me?

Avalon: I do, but I won’t.

~~~~

Ever since then, she’d been stealing glances at me like this. Wanting “something” to be poured into her, and only her. Her gaze greedily, passionately tried to unravel me. Ahaha. The way you can’t hide your desires is irresistibly cute, you know. I shifted my gaze from my wine glass back to her.

Avalon: …Ah!

Her eyes are so genuine, as usual. I could almost hear how fast her heart pounded. What does it look like my eyes are saying to you? No matter what kind of person someone was… I found people who struggled for freedom and then stepped out on their own beautiful and charming. However, I didn’t have any particular feelings of attachment to any specific person. I was someone who loved everyone equally and eventually let them go. At least, that’s how I thought I was. Until I saw with my own eyes how she would sacrifice her own life for a selfish love. You’re the first person… who’s ever made me want to watch their final moments. I gazed at her to give her a hint and then averted my gaze. The excited expression withdrew from her face and she gave me a serious look.

William: …Ahaha.

Avalon: What? Why are you laughing all of a sudden?

William: It’s nothing… Every time I look over at you, you have a different expression on your face. First you’re happy, then you’re worried. You’re so busy.

Avalon: What…? I-I…!

William: Yes?

She couldn’t make excuses. I propped my cheek up on my hand and gazed at her.

Avalon: Ugh…

Her face flushed with embarrassment. And her happy expression was immediately replaced. Heh. Always so busy.

Avalon: …That’s right, I’m busy. Because I’m enjoying the pleasure of unraveling you…

William: …Oh? Well then, in that case I’ll have to be careful not to be unraveled so easily.

Avalon: …If it gets much more difficult than this, I’ll be in trouble.

William: That’s my goal.

She was expectant, worried, and yet still desired, reaching out. It was so amusing to watch her go through those emotions. But I had no intention of revealing what was inside my heart.

William: I love watching you try to unravel me.

The word “love” made her cheeks turn red.

William: And now you’re blushing. My robin is such a busy little bird.

She put her wine glass up to her lips in an attempt to hide her flushed cheeks.

William: That’s a shame. My darling robin has gone into hiding.

Even the tips of her ears turned red, so I let her hide it. I reached out for a pawn and she asked me a question.

Avalon: …Who do you usually play chess with?

William: Hm? Here in the castle it’s usually Victor. I only win about half the time, so he’s quite fun to play with. She reached out and picked up a piece that had a crown on it.

Avalon: …This queen is a powerful piece because she can move the most freely, right?

William: That’s right. Each piece has their own value. Pawns are the lowest, followed by knights, bishops, rooks, queens, and kings. But, as is often the case on the real battlefield, don’t underestimate any one of them. A pawn can become a queen if they jump into the enemy’s territory.

Avalon: Now that’s an interesting rule.

William: Haha. I thought you’d like that. It’s a rule calle promotion, and it becomes important in the endgame.

I explained the rules as I moved the pieces, and she stared at the chessboard as if she were drawn in. Normally her body would tense up when I was close enough to touch her, but now she seemed relaxed. The more she gets absorbed in something, the more she forgets how close I am. I like that bad habit of hers.

Avalon: …How did you learn to play chess?

William: At first books. And then Ethan taught me. I still wasn’t exactly sure what activated my power, and it was around that time when I discovered how careful I had to be with my words.

Avalon: …I didn’t know you went through that.

William: I had to learn how and when to use my power in order for it to become a good thing to me.

There was a hint of faint sorrow in her eyes. I wonder if her heart is hurting because she’s remembering my childhood. She really is foolishly kind. My past wasn’t so tragic that she needed to get upset over it. Every time I unintentionally deprived others of their freedom with an order, I felt a terrible sense of disgust. But now I can use that power as I want. The curse was a part of who I was. At least, as long as it obeyed my will. It takes time to get used to everything. And activities that didn’t involve words, like chess and piano, were perfect for relieving the frustration I had at that time. She stared at the queen piece for a moment, and then looked up at me.

Avalon: William… Would you teach me more things from now on? Not just chess, but… I want to know what other things you enjoy.

William: ……

She smiled, as if the things I considered good were something to be cherished. I never dreamed that “being loved by you like this” would be one of them. I couldn’t help but laugh at how shockingly dedicated she was.

William: Of course. I’d love to.

When will you realize it? When will you realize that I only do good things for myself? I leaned over and pressed my lips to hers.

Avalon: Mm, nngh…?

William: ……

While she was recovering, I could only give her light kisses. But I noticed a hunger in her eyes and knew she wanted more. I nipped softly at her lips and her body arched against mine in an eager way. Does it feel good, Avalon? The more suppressed the desire, the stronger the pleasure becomes when it’s satisfied. If all the chains come off, it will overflow… The queen slipped from Avalon’s fingertips and rolled onto the sofa. …and spill out.

William: …Ahaha.

She fell just as I predicted. When I smiled adoringly at her… she was speechless with joy. She literally gave up her body and heart to love me. Giving her nothing but the most subtle of signs… I tasted his luscious desires… teasing, and urging them on until they were bursting ripe and overflowing. This is my reward for your devotion.

Avalon: Mm… Is this something good, then? Something you enjoy?

William: What does it seem like to you?

Whether or not you can unravel it is up to you.

[williamroute]

William Rex Blind Love Route Ch.21

Even after the “main dish”- the assassination order- was relayed by Victor, the party continued on. It was past midnight when we left the great hall.

Avalon: Wait, you can really have a checkmate in just one move in this situation?

William: Yes, of course.

Avalon: Huh? Hmm… Oh, wait! I see it! Bishop to E5!

Victor had performed a magic trick at the end of the party as the grand finale. We couldn’t help but laugh at his flair for the dramatics as we left. But now we were playing chess with a glass of wine on the soft sofa, our bodies flushed with pleasant intoxication.

William: I knew you’d be a quick learner.

Avalon: That’s because you’re a good teacher.

I’d never tried chess before since it seemed difficult. But now that I tried it, it’s surprisingly fun. William sat next to me, whispering in my ear about the various pieces and moves as he explained the game to me. And before I knew it, I was completely entranced by the black and white world of the chess board.

Avalon: You’re good at helping me enjoy the fun things in life.

William: Thank you  for the compliment. I’m honored.

He smiled and took a sip of his wine. The wine swayed in the glass, casting a red shadow on his skin. His downcast eyes and the shimmering light captivated me. …I’m so happy. Tonight was a night to celebrate my recovery and William’s homecoming, a brief respite before the assassination. William might kill another person tomorrow. And perhaps tomorrow will also be the day that I choose to die for him. The only thing I knew for certain was that I was happy to see him smiling… and even happier to be by his side. Maybe that’s why he looks so dazzling right now. This was a peaceful, ordinary night set apart from yesterday or tomorrow. It was so normal, but that is why it was so irreplicably special. It was a night I wanted to remember forever.

William: ……

He lifted his gaze from his wine glass and made eye contact with me. Ah… Just that was enough to make my heart jump with joy. Ever since the night I woke up after my injury, it felt like the temperature in William’s gaze had risen.  I couldn’t deny that I was being overly conscious lately, trying to pick up on hints of just how deep his feelings for me ran. Even if he did feel as strongly as I- and especially if he did- then I wanted to prove I was worthy of it. Not just to him, but to myself… To prove that I was capable of fulfilling my promise to the Self-Righteous Monarch and worthy of being his one special exception. Even though he averted his eyes, I stared at his profile searchingly.

William: …Ahaha.

His shoulders shook with laughter.

Avalon: What? Why are you laughing all of a sudden?

William: It’s nothing… Every time I look over at you, you have a different expression on your face. First you’re happy, then you’re worried. You’re so busy.

~~~~

Avalon: What…? I-I…!

I didn’t expect him to call me on it.

William: Yes?

He chuckled as he propped his cheek up on his palm and looked at me.

Avalon: Ugh…

He knows it’s all his fault… Such a bully. I desperately wanted to unravel William’s heart all the more. And yet he was the one who knew my heart better than I did. It’s a little frustrating… But William seems pleased, sitting here looking at me. And just that handsome smile of his is enough to make my heart feel full.

Avalon: …That’s right, I’m busy. Because I’m enjoying the pleasure of unraveling you…

My words came out with more heat than I’d intended. And his crimson eyes sparkled with even more implicit pleasure.

William: …Oh? Well then, in that case I’ll have to be careful not to be unraveled so easily.

Avalon: …If it gets much more difficult than this, I’ll be in trouble.

William: That’s my goal. I love watching you try to unravel me.

“Love” again… My heart skipped, hearing that magical word.

William: And now you’re blushing. My robin is such a busy little bird.

I took a sip of my wine to hide my flushed cheeks.

William: That’s a shame. My darling robin has gone into hiding.

He gave a throaty chuckle and reached for a chess piece.

Avalon: …Who do you usually play chess with?

William: Hm? Here in the castle it’s usually Victor. I only win about half the time, so he’s quite fun to play with.

That’s nice… I want to get better at chess so that William can enjoy playing with me too. I like it when he teaches me things, but I’d like to surprise him sometimes. I reached out and took a piece that had a crown on top.

Avalon: …This queen is a powerful piece because she can move the most freely, right?

William: That’s right. Each piece has its own value. Pawns are the lowest, followed by knights, bishops, rooks, queens and kings. But, as is often the case on the real battlefield, don’t underestimate any one of them. A pawn can become a queen if they jump into the enemy’s territory.

Avalon: Now that’s an interesting rule.

William: Haha. I thought you’d like that.

He grinned at me as he toyed with the piece in his hand.

William: It’s a rule called promotion, and it becomes important in the endgame.

He explained the rule while moving around the pieces. And before I knew it, I was once again lost in the chess board.

Avalon: …How did you learn to play chess?

~~~~

William: At first books. And then Ethan taught me. I still wasn’t exactly sure what activated my power,  and it was around that time when I discovered how careful I had to be with my words.

It sounds like Ethan spent a lot of time with him back then.

Avalon: …I didn’t know you went through that.

William: I had to learn how and when to use my power in order for it to become a good thing to me.

Come to think of it, William does have a special tone of voice he only uses when activating his power. I was surprised I hadn’t noticed it until now. I guess it’s just been so natural to me up until this point. Even at such a young age, William was William… I can’t even imagine how painful it’d be for a young child to be unable to put his thoughts into words freely… I’d been stifling to suppress all my emotions before meeting William. He must’ve felt the same when he was young, to an even greater extent. But there was something more unbearable to him. And that was to unintentionally trample on people’s wills. Perhaps piano, chess, and other non-verbal things… served as a substitute for William’s words. I’ve never felt any sort of affinity for chess before, but now the pieces seemed lovely to me. Every time I learned something new about William, the way I viewed the world changed. Trivial things now had meaning and became special.

Avalon: William… Would you teach me more from now on? Not just chess, but… I want to know what other things you enjoy.

You’re the kind of person who can leave pain and anguish behind… So I want to know what’s important to you. As long as I’m alive, I want to be closer to you than anyone else.

William: …… Of course. I’d love to.

~~~~

He leaned toward me and brushed his lips against mine.

Avalon: Mm, nngh…?

As I welcomed him in, the kiss deepened. His tongue slipped past my lips, making me shiver. When I was still wounded, those lips had only briefly teased mine. But now, they kissed me with a passion that made my body tremble. Mm, ahhh… It feels so good… Like he’d captured all my senses… My fingertips went completely limp. The queen slipped out of my hand and rolled onto the sofa.

William: Ahaha.

William chuckled when he saw the turmoil he’d caused in me after just one kiss. That alone made my chest feel tight, as if he’d wrapped his fingers around my heart. As long as you accept my feelings, that’s fine… I won’t ask for anything more than that. I can’t say anymore… William was kissing me because he wanted to. Not because I’d asked him to.

Avalon: Mm… Is this something good, then? Something you enjoy?

William: What does it seem like to you?

I wanted William to love kissing me. And I wanted him to be greedy, just like I was. I want him to want more from me. I want to be your special someone until I die. I’d become addicted to him, drowning in one desire after the other. And I engraved this normal yet irreplaceable night onto my heart forever.

~~~~

The next day…

Liam: Avalon, Harry, Will. Thank you for coming today.

William: I can’t believe you’re already a leading actor, Liam.

The mission to assassinate Grimsley began with a friendly hug from Liam.

Harrison: Are you sure it’s a good idea for two such high profile people to be seen together, William? You’re the talk of all the papers after all.

William: Did you hear that, Liam?

Liam: I did!

Avalon: I’m looking forward to the play.

Liam: Aha, I’m flattered! I hope you enjoy.

He flashed me a flamboyant wink. I heard shrieks from his fans nearby in response. I really am eager to see his play, but also because it’s part of our mission.

~~~~

There was a reason why we were here at the theatre; Grimsley’s present location and latest activities were unknown. Wary of being prosecuted, he’d abandoned his servants and fancy mansion and was reportedly staying in some cheap hotel somewhere. I was sure it was quite humiliating, but we thought the reason he was staying in London was because he hadn’t given up on the idea of killing William. William said Grimsley probably had no idea he’d been abandoned by Her Majesty. The thing we want to avoid most right now is to provoke Grimsley and have him flee the country. That’s why the plan was to make Grimsley think he had the advantage, that he was the hunter- so that he’d let his guard down and William could attack. If one listened carefully, it was easy to hear the Londoners gossip to one another.

Gossipy Lady: So were those rumors about the earl true or not? I still don’t know!

Well-Dressed Lady: I’m not sure. But the more I think about it, the more I think it might be true.

Fine Young Man: I heard that the father of the butcher saw the line of people the count controlled, and they were all screaming bloody murder!

Gelato Seller: The rumor about him being able to control people? You mean to tell me you believe in such rubbish?

Snooty Gentleman: If such a dark rumor were really true, do you honestly think he’d just show up at the theatre? He’s innocent.

At this rate, the rumors will reach Grimsley in a matter of days. He’s hiding in fear, but he’ll hear that William attended the theatre without a care in the world. It’ll injure his pride and could force him to make a move. Now was our chance to take advantage of the situation and see if we could capture him first. We were trying to get a checkmate by luring our opponent into making a mistake… Like a chess match. But we were the pieces on the board, and our lives were at stake. Strangely enough, excitement jittered through me at the whole prospect of it.

William: You don’t seem nervous at all.

Avalon: I know… I’m a little surprised, to be honest. But apparently, I actually like nerve-wracking situations like these.

William: You just now realized it? Obviously someone who has vowed to sacrifice their life for me likes her fair share of thrills.

…I suppose he’s right. I couldn’t help but laugh at William’s exasperated tone.

Avalon: Haha. It’s true. But I’m pleased to have the very important role of serving as your shield. I won’t leave your side even while we’re in the theatre, rest assured.

William: ……

Avalon: What’s wrong?

William: It’s nothing.

He scooped up a lock of my hair into his hand. He rubbed circles with his fingertips, as if confirming the feel of it.

William: It simply seems that giving into my desires is far more addictive than I’d imagined…

He planted a light kiss on my hair.

Avalon: …Hm?

There was a sort of dangerous joy in his voice that sent shivers down my spine. If he keeps seeming so happy to have me by his side like this, I’m not going to be able to concentrate at all… Oh no, I can’t wipe the grin off my face. My heartbeat picked up again, but when I averted my gaze I heard him chuckling.

Liam: By the way, the manager would like to say hello to you afterward, Will.

William: Ah, yes. I need to talk to him about the commotion. Still, shouldn’t you be changed into costume by now, Liam?

Liam: Huh? Oh no, I have to go change! It’s almost time! I have to go!

Harrison: You came out here to say hello to us without even changing?

Liam: Well, you came all this way to see me! I was so excited! And I just felt like I needed to be about a hundred times more dashing than usual… to impress Avalon and everyone else so you’ll have a better opinion on me!

Avalon: Don’t worry, Liam. My opinion of you is already extremely high.

Liam: …Then I’ll just have to make you like me even more! I promise, I’ll put on the best performance ever.

[williamroute]

William Route Finest Evil: Finest Love

Avalon: …William!

William: …Hm?

I thought the only people who’d call my name in the Tower of London would do so with hatred, fear, and suspicion. And yet I heard a panicked voice call my name so sweetly, catching me by surprise.

William: …Avalon?

I saw Avalon running straight toward me, out of breath. A mixture of shock and amazement brewed inside of me at the sight.

Avalon: Haa, haa…!

She had sweat running down her cheeks and her messy, disheveled hair told the story of how much she was exerting herself. What are you doing here? From the desperation on her face, it was clear that she hadn’t fully accepted my destiny. You’ve chased me all the way here… repeating the same cycle over and over. Maybe she was here to release the prisoners… just in case I lost my life falling into the trap that was set for me here. It’s hard to believe she got this far herself. I suppose Alfons and Liam assisted her. And since she’s here to release the prisoners, she decided to come and try to persuade me. It’ll be a bit troublesome if the prisoners are released before I take care of the inspector who sent them to prison… Or, perhaps it’s fine.

Avalon: I’ll explain everything later. But first, you need to-

???: There he is!

A sharp voice pierced my ears, interrupting Avalon’s voice. When I looked up, I saw several familiar faces staring at me with mixed emotions. Oh, good. It looks like the inspector followed my orders.

Avalon: What are you doing here?

William: I made the person in charge unlock the cells.

She must’ve come here to tell me to run away. Unfortunately, I still have work to do here.

Avalon: Please stay back! It’s too dangerous for you to see them right now!

William: I know. But that’s why I want to see them.

That’s why I came here. I took a step forward and hid her behind my back.

William: This is necessary for them to become free.

Avalon: What?!

William: Come to me. I’m right here.

Female Prisoner: Huh…?! My body’s moving on its own!

Young Male Prisoner: What the inspector said was true…

The prisoners slowly approached me, their faces tense with fear.

Avalon: William!

She seemed to understand exactly what I meant by ordering them and was clearly panicked. The little robin is clever, as usual.

William: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. It’s a lovely night, isn’t it? This doesn’t seem to be all of them. There must be some still left in the jails. Apparently I’ll need to go check later.

I made eye contact with each of the prisoners lined up in front of me to confirm. The first one was a young man named Charlie. He was young, innocent, and a bit short-tempered, but I remembered well his ambition to change the kingdom.

Charlie: William! Did you really deceive us?!

You probably can’t forgive me for the crimes you read about in the paper.

Avalon: No… Please don’t do this, William!

William: Well, let’s see. I forgot your name, so I don’t remember if I did or not.

Charlie: -Ngh!

Go ahead and hate me. Hate me even more. That will set you free.

William: Still… Those are terrible injuries.

Charlie: And who do you think is to blame for that?! It’s your fault! You devil! You murderer!

Avalon: No!!

I could hear Avalon gasp behind me. I knew exactly what expression she had on her face without even looking back, and I couldn’t help but smile. If hearing people curse me hurts your heart… then you shouldn’t be by my side after all. She was kind enough to feel guilty for not being able to save a complete stranger. So if she couldn’t accept the voices of condemnation, the punishment I would receive, and my ruin… then there was no way she could be truly free by my side.

Avalon: William, please, you need to leave here at once!

Charlie: I won’t let him go! I’m going to prove it with this!

Something glinted in the young man’s hand. The sharp blade reflected the candlelight. That’s a good one. Maybe the inspector gave it to him. He’s got decent taste. Charlie could certainly stab me. It would be perfect for the “not guilty” performance.

Charlie: You are not my benefactor… And we are not your friends! I will clear everyone’s names who were captured because of you!

I smiled back silently. I had no intention of avoiding it. But I didn’t think I would die here. It just wasn’t a tragic enough ending. However… Avalon stood there holding her breath, praying… and I knew she would blame herself for not being able to stop the events that unfolded in front of her. That’s the only thing that worries me a little.

Charlie: Aaargggh!

Just before the tip of the knife drew near… I heard the sound of someone lightly kicking off the ground. What…? The knife, searching for freedom, pierced something. Avalon’s hair flew out in front of me. It swayed as if I were watching it in slow motion. …Avalon?

Liam: Avalon!!

Somewhere in the distance, I heard Liam’s voice scream her name. I caught her body as it collapsed in my arms.

William: ……

I didn’t have to ask her why. Her actions, and the red carved into her body… screamed louder than any words. Screamed of her selfish love. “Even if you wish to be destroyed, I will not allow it.” “I want to be faithful to those wishes.” “Because I am my only master.” “Look, William.” “Loving you has made me the most free I have ever been. See? This is the proof.” …Yes, that’s right. You were being faithful to your own heart, and you chose this.

~~~~

Avalon: I… When I die, I want to feel like I lived my life the way I wanted, and made my own choices.

~~~~

The crimson blood slowly soaked through her white clothing, staining her with the evidence of her decision. It was the color of her desire. The color of free will that penetrated through her selfishness and selfish love. When I first met her, I imagined this. I imagined her casting aside all the things that bound her… and imagined how beautifully she would bloom in the dark. The freely blooming crimson in my arms had exceeded my imagination. It’s so gorgeous… I could almost laugh out loud.

William: …Avalon. …I remember wiping the blood off your cheeks the night we met.

I gently caressed her cheek with my fingertips. What should I call these feelings that welled up from within the dark recesses of my heart? If there was a suitable word… would it be happiness?

William: And ever since that night, I’ve been thinking… Red is your color.

A wish that was never meant to come true… unexpectedly fell right into my hands. How sweet it would be… if I could devour it, savor it on the tip of my tongue, and taste it for my heart’s content. My foolish, adorable, darling, pitiful little robin… Even if the fear of death can’t stop your love… My destiny will eventually kill you. I had no intention of avoiding my destiny, even now with a bloodied Avalon in my arms. If you still truly wish to be by my side… I will offer the finest love- the finest evil- to you. And eventually, it will lead you to ruin.

[williamroute]

William Rex Route Ch.20

William: This is why I’m here.

Avalon: Oh…!

It was a sensational article that’d been distributed after the incident at the Tower. Supposedly, it shocked Londoners even more after the commotion following the prisoners’ escape. However, what surprised me was that it was self-published, and not distributed by a newspaper. My heart pounded as I read through it. The story stated that everything written in the “The Barbarism of Lord William Rex” article was completely false. It was a conspiracy launched by several nobles, including Count Avarus, to frame William for the organized crimes. And the story also stated that the author of the article was unknowingly complicit in the conspiracy. “When the author went to question the mastermind of the plot about the conspiracy, he was imprisoned in the Tower of London to silence him. There were many other innocent people imprisoned there besides the author. That’s right; those are the same prisoners that Lord William freed a few days ago. It goes without saying that this was also a ruse to force Lord William to surrender, as he served as their benefactor. I am bound by my journalistic integrity to publish the name of the mastermind here. And I pray that at least this will be some form of atonement toward Lord Rex for my actions. The ringleader’s name is Lord Grimsley of the Privy Council.” I didn’t have to check the author’s name. I already knew who it was.

Avalon: Bryan…

William: Bryan Bennett’s indictment was deemed by most to be credible- despite it being self-published.

In addition to the fact that such a prominent journalist resorted to self-publishing to avoid the newspaper suppressing the truth… his credibility grew exponentially after the released prisoners claimed his account to be true.

William: Even the major newspapers immediately began to denounce the matter. I’m surprised that Lord Grimsley didn’t work fast enough to quash the story. But since Bryan occasionally wrote stories that put Grimsley’s enemies at a disadvantage… the people who harbored grudges against him must have supported the pursuit of this matter.

The spark that was lit was not stubbed out, but rather accelerated. In just two nights, there was a protest calling for the punishment of Lord Grimsley. The Privy Council, now exposed to criticism, was in a position where it would be difficult for them to make a move.

William: I went to all that effort for the parade, and yet this article has rendered it meaningless. I have a feeling Victor will scold me for unnecessarily exposing my curse.

Avalon: …What parade?

William: It’s not important.

William shrugged and put the article back on the nightstand.

William: Still, don’t you think it’s a terrible article?

~~~~

Avalon: What’s terrible about it?

William: It’s completely undone the public’s knowledge of me killing Avarus and punishing the police at the Tower of London along with the prisoners… Not to mention any details of my powers have also been suppressed. It’s not fair.

Avalon: Perhaps it’s because he thought it was part of his journalistic integrity to protect your secret for you? After all, he wrote that line about atoning for what he did to you.

William: Bryan has no sins to atone for. He only did what he thought was right, from the beginning to the end.

~~~~

Bryan: You’ll regret this someday! You’ll never be happy, aligning yourself with someone like that!

Bryan: I have to make sure that I’m standing on the side of justice.

~~~~

Avalon: I think so too.

Neither pure justice nor pure evil can exist anywhere. There’s never just one answer for the meaning of things; it’s as varied as there are people in the world. Still, I admired his dedication to adhere to what he believed was right. It was something very noble and to be respected.

Avalon: So thanks to this article, the Privy Council no longer has any right to interfere with you or Crown’s affairs… And that’s why you came here. Right?

William: That’s correct.

Avalon: Then I should thank Bryan for clearing your name.

William: Do you think you’ll be his fan again?

Avalon: Yes, of course.

William: That’s good.

William smiled happily, as if I was praising him along with Bryan.

William: Now then, it’s time to rest. You don’t want to become Sleeping Beauty again for days on end, do you?

He stroked my hair as if to lull me back to sleep… and gently pulled the blanket up over me. Oh, before I forget…

Avalon: Can I ask you one more thing first?

William: Go ahead.

Avalon: When we were at the Tower of London… If I hadn’t jumped out in front of you, would you have let yourself get stabbed?

He hummed, not answering me immediately.

William: Hm, I’m not sure…

Avalon: William… That’s not a very fair way of answering.

William: I’m only being kind. Saving you the fun of unraveling it for yourself.

William gave me a kiss on the forehead and then took a step away from my bed.

Avalon: …Not fair.

William: Ahaha! You look so cute when you pout. Good night, Avalon.

He waved and then left the room.

Avalon: Honestly…!

He left me in bed, just like that day when he’d left me behind. It’s fine. This time, I know he’ll be back. Even if he was going to let himself be stabbed that day… It doesn’t matter because I’m going to protect him no matter what. Just like that day, the scent of roses lingered in my room, invading my senses. A warm sense of happiness spread inside of me as a smile crossed my face.

~~~~

Meanwhile, in the palace…

Privy Council Member: I shall turn a blind eye to your failure. You’re going to retire and spend the rest of your days quietly, won’t you? Although if that monster sniffs you out and you want to cut off his head, I won’t stop you. Do you understand, Grimsley?

Grimsley’s colleagues either regarded him with scorn or fear that they would be involved too and end up dead. Meanwhile, Grimsley himself just glared back at them with irritation.

~~~~

Grimsley: Why must I lose my job over a single villain?!

His colleagues had unanimously decided to force Grimsley to retire, and now he vented his anger in the hallway. His fine mustache twitched while he gritted his teeth.

Grimsley: What is Lord Rex up to?!

Grimsley yelled at his attendant with cold, reptilian eyes.

Attendant: I’m sorry, I haven’t heard anything yet…

Grimsley: Tch… ‘If you want to cut off his head, I won’t stop you.’ Those damned cowards! How many times have the Privy Council interfered with the actions of Crown?! Have they ever laid a hand on them one single time?!

Grimsley’s rage suddenly transformed into a thin smile.

Grimsley: I’m going to scrub that blot off the face of England! Then I will be invited to the Privy Council again. Her Majesty will be so pleased. And now that they kicked me out of the Council, I don’t even need to ask their opinions! Go hire a professional assassin and have them carry out my plan!

Attendant: Y-yes, my lord!

Grimsley: It was impossible for ordinary citizens to kill off a monstrous assassin with those strange powers in the first place.

Attendant: However, my lord… He’s completed many assassinations by forcing his victims to die by suicide, without even leaving any weapons behind. So I’m afraid that even if you were to hire a professional…

Grimsley: There was a report from the prisoners about his abilities. They all said, ‘The moment I saw his face and heard his voice, I lost control over my body’. So as long as the assassin is not seen or spoken to by him, then there’s a good chance he won’t be controlled.

Attendant: …I see.

Grimsley: Cursed, eh? That monster…

~~~~

A few days after I woke up, news of Grimsley being ousted from the Privy Council rocked London. And several more peaceful days followed that.

Victor: Here’s to the return of our William, and to Miss Avalon’s recovery. Cheers!

Roger announced I had finished my treatment, so that night Victor threw a cocktail party in our honor. He was quite enthusiastic about the whole affair.

~~~~

Harrison: …Do you really have to set off the party poppers one by one?

Victor: Hmm, what? You won’t be satisfied until I pay attention to you? Okay, Harrison! It’ll be my pleasure!

Harrison: No! H-hey, don’t put your arm around my shoulders!

Liam: Are you all right, Avalon? There’s a chair right there if you need to take a seat.

Avalon: Thanks, Liam. But I feel fine at the moment.

Alfons: You’ve got bad luck indeed, having to return to the world of sorrow…

William: That’s all thanks to our talented doctor.

Avalon: That’s right. Thank you so much, Roger.

Roger: Well, let’s just say you owe me one. I’ll have to think long and hard about what I’d like you to do for me in return. By the way, Elbie stayed at your bedside nursing you until William returned. Isn’t that right?

Elbert: …I’m not sure I would go so far as to call it ‘nursing’. I mostly just watched her.

Avalon: …Watched me?

Alfons: Honestly, I cannot say I’m surprised to hear that, but now you’ve just made Avalon frightened of you, Elbert.

Elbert: …I apologize.

Avalon: It’s okay! I’m not scared. Please don’t apologize.

Does Lord Elbert still think I might be what he’s searching for? All the members of Crown had their own curses and destinies. Before, I’d only thought about it literally, but now I truly understood the weight of it all.

Avalon: Thank you for taking care of me.

Elbert: …You’re welcome.

It seemed like Lord Elbert’s sadness had eased a bit. That made me more relaxed too, so I took a sip of champagne. Delicious drinks, a fun party, more of Victor’s magic tricks… and all the familiar members of Crown. And now William’s back here with us. That was enough to make me feel happy today. I stole a glance at William’s profile as he stood beside me. He noticed my gaze and smiled.

William: What is it?

Avalon: Nothing. I’m just glad you’re here. I’ll probably keep looking at you to make sure you’re still here and smile at you several times tonight, so just don’t mind me.

William: Hm? Maybe I’ll start counting how many times you glance at me, then.

He grinned before taking a sip of the red wine Victor opened for him. Maybe that wine never would’ve been opened had William not returned. I couldn’t help but wonder that as I looked at Victor’s smiling face.

Avalon: I should thank everyone.

William: Hm?

Avalon: Obviously I need to thank Roger, who treated my wounds. But Harrison, Liam, Alfons and Lord Elbert… Without your help, I wouldn’t have been able to go to the Tower of London. And also Jude and Ellis- thank you for helping me go see Bryan.

If they hadn’t been with me that night, things might’ve turned out very differently.

William: I heard most of what happened already. Let’s say that I recommend being more careful with your negotiations from now on, so that you don’t pay an outrageous price.

Avalon: Haha. I’ll keep that in mind.

We looked at each other and smiled. It wasn’t natural to be able to laugh and talk about such a desperate night. But it was the fact we could that left me elated and loving.

Victor: Hey, William! Will you play a song for me? Pretty please?

William: If you’ll excuse me, the party-loving queen’s attendant calls for me.

Avalon: Haha. Have fun.

William sat down at the grand piano and immediately began playing a soothing melody.

Ellis: …Are you happy that Will is back?

Avalon: WHOA!

~~~~

Avalon: Ellis, you startled me. Yes, I’m happy he’s back.

Ellis: Hmm… How happy?

Avalon: Very, very happy.

Oh!

~~~~

Ellis: What if Jude has the happiest moment of his life while I’m away?

The happiest moment of his life?

Avalon: What happens if that moment comes?

William: Ellis will kill him.

~~~~

Avalon: P-probably not the happiest I’ve ever been in my life though!

Ellis: …Oh, I see. That’s too bad.

Phew, that was a close one… I need to be more careful when Ellis and I are talking alone… I looked around for help and saw a very unhappy Jude, who’d probably been forced to come. He was hunched over in a chair in the corner, reading something.

Avalon: What are you reading?

Jude: Somethin’ that’ll never be any of your business.

Ellis: It’s a paper we got by pressing Bryan to atone for his crimes. I suppose you could call it a journalist’s connections? We got it in advance before it was published.

Avalon: Bryan committed crimes against you…?

Jude: Yeah, he did. So I charged him 200 for gettin’ us into a fight with the police, 200 for runnin’ away without apologizin’... 300 for each kick ‘n he kicked me twice, so 600. Total comes to 1000 pounds.

He charged him for getting kicked? And that’s a lot of money too… He sounds serious.

Avalon: Is that paper really worth that much?

Jude: Won’t know till I read it, will I? If it’s rubbish I’ll make him give me somethin’ else. Don’t worry your pretty lil bird head ‘bout it.

Good luck, Bryan… I offered a silent prayer for Bryan’s safety. William’s melody was coming to an end. Once silence filled the room, everyone’s gazes naturally drifted over to the piano.

William: Now… It’s not like us to end a party with just alcohol and chatting. There’s still an important matter left to discuss, perfect for such an occasion. Don’t you agree, Victor?

Victor: Of course, William. The very special main course, perfect for us who fight evil with evil.

The mood of the party was light and airy like champagne bubbles, but it changed in an instant. Now it turned dark and heavy, yet quiveringly sweet, like the curtain of night falling.

Victor: Everyone knows that Lord Grimsley is the mastermind behind this series of incidents. The Privy Council ousted him from politics for his blunder- but did not present him to the courts or the police. They have the same guilty conscience. They don’t wish to risk their standing because of him. Neither the courts or the police will investigate the Privy Council on the basis of a mere letter from a journalist. And the police appear to be under pressure to stop pursuing both William and Grimsley. If things continue like this, Bryan’s two articles will be swallowed by the darkness and eventually forgotten.

When the Golden Butterfly’s organized crime was overlooked, the Privy Council indirectly let innocent people die.

~~~~

Thin Boy: Give it back! Give it back! We made it! Just let me have a little!

Director: Hey! Take him away!

William: Where’s the boy who shouted?

Director: He was taken to the rubbish room temporarily. I wish we could sell the corpses to surgeons, but they’re all in such a bad state.

~~~~

A feeling of powerlessness rose up inside of me when I thought about the victims who couldn’t even ask for help. But before, I’d just pretended not to see it. I’d overlooked the voices of those who were oppressed and asked for help, the same as I did for myself. But this time… I turned my gaze to William. His bright crimson eyes were tinged with cold bloodlust. Grimsley did something unforgivable.

William: The reason Crown has never interfered with the Privy Council is that they haven’t directly harmed the citizens. However, this time Grimsley gave instruction ‘of his own volition’... He trampled on the freedoms of innocent people and even tried to make them commit murder. Those at the center of state power treat the lives of citizens like tools,  and no one is going to punish them. If this is overlooked, it cannot serve as a deterrent to evil. It’s time to let the poison work.

A chill ran through my body. It was time for William to sin again. He’d do it to act as a deterrent against evil. I will witness it with my own eyes… And record it, according to his wishes. I would write down the sins that deprive him his freedom and dignity, due to the Curse of the Self-Righteous Monarch. A story that would someday become a spoonful of poison.

Victor: Her Majesty thought the same when I had an audience with her this morning. Her words were, ‘Yes, treat them with a dose of your evil poison’.

William: …Then I shall do as Her Majesty commands.

Victor: Haha.

After looking at everyone in turn, Victor’s jewel-like eyes held mine.

Victor: Avalon.

Avalon: Yes?

Victor: It will soon be a month since you came here. And when that time comes, you must let me know. Tell me your will, and your choice.

Avalon: …Yes, Victor.

~~~~

The queen had ordered Crown to assassinate Lord Grimsley. I had been the Fairytale Keeper for just one month… and my final job would be to record that mission.

[williamroute]

William Route Teneramente: Tenderly

Avalon: …I’m not dreaming, am I?

William: Why don’t you check to make sure?

William sat on the edge of my bed and tipped his head to the side, inviting me to touch him.

William: If your eyes don’t believe it, then use your ears, your touch.

His voice was gentle as he outstretched his hand toward me, coming to take my own. The moment I touched him, I was filled with relief. Ah… And yet I knew that even if we touched and embraced, we were living in two different worlds. At least, that’s how it felt to me. But for right now… William’s fingers slipped through my own. He clasped my hand so tightly I wouldn’t have been able to shake off his grip if I tried.

William: Now what do you think?

Avalon: I feel like… this is the closest we’ve ever been.

William: Haha…

My heart ached when I heard his laugh. All the emotions that welled up inside of me threatened to make the words come out in a rush.

Avalon: Hey, William…

William: Hm?

Avalon: I want to stay with you.

I was so happy I could tell him that without hesitation that I couldn’t help but smile.

Avalon: And whether the person who points a knife at you is right or wrong… I want to protect you.

My stomach wound throbbed when I remembered the pain. If one strayed from the path of righteousness in order to protect something, a price had to be paid. Just as William did, sacrificing his life to protect those people who had their freedoms trampled upon. I want to give my all to protect William.

Avalon: Because I love you, you and all your sins. And if loving you is a sin… I will face any punishment.

Even if it means death.

William: ……

For a while, William remained silent, as if he were trying to accept my request. Then he looked directly in my eyes and spoke slowly and deliberately.

William: If you continue to protect me, my destiny will eventually kill you. Even though you were stabbed trying to protect me, I still have no intention of avoiding that fate. Do you understand?

Even if I risk my life to protect him, it won’t change William’s destiny of meeting a tragic end. And he has no intention of changing himself, either.

Avalon: Of course, I understand. I know just how willful and stubborn you are, more than anyone.

William: …Oh?

William’s eyes softened when he saw that my smile didn’t falter. It felt like he was both testing me and looking at me expectantly at the same time.

Avalon: It’s your right to choose if you want to be destroyed as a great villain and become the poison that disrupts evil. I’m not going to deny it, and I’m not going to change my mind.

Because I fell in love with you after I knew that’s how you wanted to live your life.

Avalon: But…

William: But?

Avalon: There’s one thing I will not budge on. You will only die after I die trying to protect you. Because then I’ll be able to live happily and freely at your side until the day I die.

William: Is that so…?

He lowered his eyes for a moment, a faint smile on his lips.

William: Do you really want me to see you die protecting me?

There was a provocative tone in his voice. I know the whole thing sounds reckless. But no matter how much he tries to corner me on this one, I’m not going to budge. So it’s no use trying to provoke me. After all, this is my freedom to choose.

Avalon: That’s how it’s going to be.

My voice was firm as I shrugged my shoulders.

Avalon: Obviously I don’t want to die, so I’ll do my best to fight for you as long as I can.

William: ……

Avalon: ……

William: …Haha… Ahahaha!

After we stared at each other in silence for a few seconds, William burst out laughing.

Avalon: Hey, it’s not that funny! I’m being serious here.

William: Pfft… I’m sorry. I seem to have underestimated you. It’s just hard to believe that my little robin, who was once stubborn about suppressing her emotions so she wouldn’t feel anything… has grown so much that she’s able to make such a foolish, self-assertive confession of love.

Avalon: I could say the same thing to you. You wanted me to be free so badly that you tried to push me away. As if doing so didn’t actually take away my freedom. I despised your selfishness.

William: Well, I really loved the way you cursed at me that day.

Avalon: …And I loved the way you didn’t take offense to it.

William: I’m honored.

Avalon: But if you hadn’t left me like that… I might’ve never decided to express how I felt so forcefully.

I dropped my gaze to our clasped hands. His hands, which both took away lives and gave people freedom, were warm. And I had no regrets about surrendering my life and my future to these hands.

Avalon: As long as I’m by your side, I won’t be unhappy. I will live freely until the end. So… Please let me protect you.

I murmured as if making a sacred vow and lifted my gaze… to see blood-red eyes piercing mine. What is he thinking right now? My heart immediately started pounding. Huh…? Those eyes of his have always had an effect on me, but… Why is he looking at me like that right now? His eyes were tinged with an intense, alluring heat that I’d never seen before. It took hold of me and violently stirred my heart.

William: That night at the Tower of London… I held you in my arms and watched you become stained with blood. It was so beautiful that I almost wanted to laugh out loud.

I’d never heard that tone in his voice before. It was like the devil singing before a sacrifice. A sweet melody filled with desires, expectations, and a tinge of sadness.

William: I wonder how much more beautiful you’ll be… when my destiny finally kills us both.

How gorgeously tragic… Oh, I feel like I’m floating on air. My heart was pounding so fast and I felt so breathless I was dizzy. My wound throbbed and ached to the point where it felt dangerous, but at the same time… it was comforting. Like a reminder of my devotion.

William: I will see it through all the way until you’ve met your end, just as you desire.

William will watch over me until my very last moment. He’ll have this same heated look in his eyes. That’s what I’ll feel the moment I meet Death. …I can’t think of anything happier. The ending would be so sweet that I trembled just imagining it.

William: I’m looking forward to it.

Avalon: …So am I. I’m very much looking forward to it.

Somewhere far away, a bell rang. It’s like a miracle. William, who wouldn’t even accept a single flower… had accepted my life. From now on, I will be by William’s side. I will protect him until my very last breath. I felt as if I were intoxicated by a sweet poison and filled with warm happiness. William released my hand and then placed his over mine, bringing it to his chest.

Avalon: …William?

I stared at him in a daze, feeling like I was still dreaming.

William: I sincerely hope that you will keep your vow to me. So I’m going to help you out a little.

A mischievous grin crossed his face, as if he were plotting something wicked.

William: My sweet little robin, who surrendered herself to the Self-Righteous Monarch… If anyone ever appears who means to do you harm… whether that person is righteous or not, I will use whatever means necessary… to protect you.

He pressed his lips against the top of my hand, as if making his own vow.

Avalon: William…

William: I don’t want to see you die for any other reason besides protecting me from my destiny. It must be your own will that decorates your end.

He’ll protect me in return? I wasn’t expecting him to say that. The top of my hand was hot, like he’d left a mark on it. William loved everyone equally. He poured his love over all, like the spring rain. So even if he said he loved me… was it the same loving rain that fell on all the others? I believed that I wasn’t special to William. That I was the one who wanted to protect him and love him. Because he was special to me. I thought I’d be fine if he accepted my one-sided feelings. I thought it would be enough, as long as he didn’t completely reject me… And yet here he vows he’ll protect me. How could I not get my hopes up after hearing that?

William: My partner is guilty of making a cursed villain promise the future.

Avalon: Partner?

William: Oh, I’m sorry. Would you prefer me to call you my lover?

Avalon: I…

Lover… Here I am just hoping he’ll accept my foolish selfishness and he says that… How do I even begin to respond to that?

Avalon: I’ll be happy either way.

William: I’m glad to hear it. I feel the same way. Honestly it doesn’t matter what I call you. Because it’s all just shorthand to describe a relationship that protects each other with love.

My heart was pounding so hard it was actually painful. With love… He’s saying that… This means… I really am his one exception. The one who’ll be special to him. The only one he’d accept a flower from… right?

William: Is there something… you’d like to ask me?

William glanced at me with a chuckle. He always knew what I am thinking and teased me like this. And yet I never knew what he was thinking. Especially not now. I wanted to unravel the mystery of him, but before I knew it I couldn’t even think straight. I hate to admit it, but… Being teased and toyed with like this… Feels very good to me.

Avalon: I do. But I won’t.

He allowed me to love him. That alone is enough to fill my heart right now. If I really am his exception… I don’t need to ask, because I’ll be able to see it for myself. The answer was such an alluring secret. And it would be a waste for me not to expose it myself.

Avalon: The more fun something is to unravel, the better the reward.

William: And that’s why you’re my darling little robin.

William laughed merrily and bent down slightly.

Avalon: Mm…

He pressed his lips against mine and then quickly pulled away. No matter how many kisses we’d shared in the past or how far we’d already gone… None felt as satisfying as this one.

Avalon: I want more…

William: Ahaha… You’re so honest. But that’ll have to wait.

He looked down at my stomach.

William: I don’t want to hurt you. You’ll regret it if you have to take longer to recover and I’d get into trouble for being the cause of it.

Avalon: I suppose you’re right…

I bit my lip, unable to argue with that. I’d vowed to protect him, but I couldn’t even sit up straight right now.

William: You’ll just have to be patient. You can do that, can’t you?

He stroked my head as if he were soothing a child, and I had no choice but to nod.

William: That’s my sweet little robin.

Avalon: But… Once I’m all healed… I’m making up for this by having you all day long.

I didn’t care if I was embarrassing myself saying that.

William: Yes, of course. With pleasure.

William gave me an enchanting smile, welcoming the idea. Oh, William…

Avalon: Don’t smile at me like that when you’re telling me to be patient…

William: Ahaha!

He’s such a bully… But I didn’t feel frustrated. In fact, I was thrilled that he looked like he was enjoying himself so much. I despised, yet adored, that all-knowing, mischievous smile as well. So now I have to be patient… And make a full recovery. I need to think about something different. Let’s see… I wonder if anyone else knows that William is back at the castle? Hm? Anxiety surged from my chest as if I’d just woken up from a nightmare.

Avalon: …Why are you back at the castle?

William: Where did that question come from, all of a sudden?

Avalon: Because…

He must’ve tried to expose his crimes in order to prove the innocence of the prisoners… I know William wouldn’t have just walked away. So in that case…

Avalon: If the Privy Council or the police broke into the castle now, Crown would be in danger-

William: Oh, right. You don’t know what happened after you were injured that night.

Seeing my flustered reaction, William grabbed something from the nightstand.

William: This is why I’m here.

Avalon: Oh…!

[williamroute]

William Rex Route Ch.19

William: …I remember wiping the blood off your cheeks the night we met.

His blood-red nails gently caressed her cheek. All the while, a similar crimson gradually spread across her white clothing. Like a flower blooming and changing color.

William: And ever since that night, I’ve been thinking… Red is your color.

~~~~

William: Even if you stay by my side, you don’t want to see me meet a tragic demise. Not unless you want to be destroyed as well. If you stay with me, you’ll feel like you have to accept my fate, which will cause you stress, sadness, and pain. It will bind your heart. Helplessness and guilt kills desire. It steals freedom. You should know that better than anyone.

~~~~

William: This is your answer to my destiny, isn’t it?

The crimson coloring Avalon’s body was her clear refusal of the destruction William had wished for. It was a message telling William that regardless if he wished for his own demise or whether he rejected her love… “I will not allow it.” “Not killing that desire is the way I choose to freely live my life.

William: ……

A faint smile appeared on William’s lips. And a hint of discord tinted the affection in his gaze.

William: You spoke of betting on the possibility to live by my side… But I didn’t expect you to prove it in this way. Now you’re definitely free… And it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen.

Just then, a malicious voice dripping with anger cut through the silence.

Police Inspector: What’s going on?! Hey! You over there! I thought I gave you a knife! So why is Rex still alive? And who is that woman?!

Female Prisoner: I saw her at the Tea Party… Is she his lover?

Police Inspector: Then she’s a villain too! Don’t just stand there! Prove your innocence!

Young Male Prisoner: …Ahh!

Urged by the police inspector, the young man held up the blood-stained knife.

Liam: I won’t let you.

Young Male Prisoner: Huh? What’s going on…?!

The man’s arm froze in the air, as if something had grabbed it.

Liam: Don’t move. I feel like… Like I could do anything right now. I’m sorry, Avalon, Will… I promise I won’t screw up again. I’ll do it. I promise…

Young Male Prisoner: Where’s that voice coming from?!

Fear spread across the young man’s face as he searched for the voice coming from nowhere, its tone tinged with madness.

Bryan: Please wait…!

Bryan breathlessly dragged his injured leg as he placed himself between the young man and William, tumbling to the floor.

Bryan: I can explain everything, I promise! But right now… Please don’t hurt them!

William: …Hm.

~~~~

Young Male Prisoner: What… What is going on? I-I don’t know what’s right anymore! I don’t know what’s going on!!

The young man was so flustered that the knife slipped from his hands and fell to the floor. Overwhelmed by Bryan’s pleas, the other prisoners fell silent.

William: Thank you, Bryan… And thank you to the invisible kitty who can’t show himself in front of the inspector and everyone else. But I don’t deserve your devoted support. So please just relax and take it easy. Now, Inspector.

Police Inspector: N-no! I don’t care which of you does it, someone seize that man!

William: Ahaha! There’s no need to be so frightened! I just want to have a little chat. Tell me who gave you the orders to do this.

Police Inspector: The-the Deputy Commissioner! Damn it!

William: I see. But he needed the cooperation of someone outside the police department too, didn’t he? Answer me.

Police Inspector: …I don’t know!

William: Hmm… So I suppose he’s clever enough to keep that sort of sensitive information close at hand. Thank you for your cooperation, Inspector. It was incredibly helpful. Now shut your mouth and don’t move.

Once William saw that the inspector was frozen to the spot…

William: ……

He gently placed Avalon’s limp, dangling arms lovingly against her stomach. He gathered her in his arms and slowly stood up, careful not to hurt her further.

William: I have something I’d like to ask the cat, if I may.

Liam: …What is it?

William: Could you take her to our doctor?

Liam: Of course. I promise I’ll get her there safely… What’ll you do, Will?

William: I have a little more work to do here.

William stared at Avalon for a few moments after he transferred her to Liam’s invisible arms.

William: I can’t come right away, but I promise that I will.

Liam: …All right.

Liam carried Avalon and disappeared into the darkness of the tower. Then William turned to the stunned prisoners and gave an elegant smile.

William: Now then. It’s time to address the insolent, yet good-natured person who turned a knife on MY robin? Unfortunately for you all, you’re about to be controlled by a villain again.

Prisoners: What?!

Bryan: Lord Rex, what are you-?!

William: Everyone, line up and follow me.

Bryan: …Argh!

The moment Bryan was ordered to stand up, his face twisted with pain.

William: Oh, I’m sorry- is your leg injured? Are there people injured who are still in the cells too?

Bryan: Y-yes…

William: Hm, then I’ll have to handle this differently. Anyone who’s injured, stay here until someone comes to get you. I don’t need everyone to participate in the parade, after all. It’s simply important we make an impact. Now, shall we go? You’re in for a busy night.

~~~~

It was before dawn. Under normal circumstances, London should’ve been shrouded under darkness and fog at this time of day, but instead a strange commotion could be heard.

Townsperson: What is that? A parade? I didn’t know there was going to be a festival.

The first people to notice were the early risers already heading to work. And then the gossipers awoke to the sound of the night watchmen running through the streets.

Male Prisoner: M-my legs are moving on their own! Somebody help me!

Female Prisoner: I’m so tired… Stop… Please stop…!

There was a line of people walking in an orderly line down the streets, however their faces were haggard and exhausted while they pleaded for help. It was a bizarre sight, as if corpses had risen from the dead and were walking in formation.

William: Morning bells are ringing, morning bells are ringing…

Only William, who was at the head of the line, seemed to be in happy spirits as he sang a happy tune. But his joyful singing stopped along with the footsteps of the prisoners when they reached the square.

William: A horse-drawn carriage driver, a shoe polisher, a maid, a policeman, a gossiping baker… Oh… And a letter carrier, of course. That should be enough witnesses.

William muttered to himself as he counted the onlookers, whose faces were filled with a mixture of fear and curiosity. Seeing that, the young man opened his mouth as if he couldn’t stand it anymore.

Young Male Prisoner: W-William… What are you thinking?!

William: I’m not sure what you mean. Could you elaborate a bit more?

Young Male Prisoner: Was the newspaper article true? I don’t… I don’t know what to believe anymore… Why did you come to the tower? Why did you bring us all the way here?!

William: Oh, well that’s simple! I brought you here to execute you.

Young Male Prisoner: Wha-?!

William: Especially you. You pointed a knife at me, didn’t you? And then you hurt my robin.

Young Male Prisoner: What? Ahh… ahh… ahh!

William: Now, how shall I do it?

William walked up to the frozen man and touched his throat.

William: All I have to do is speak one word and you won’t even be able to resist. I’m hungry, you know. I didn’t get to see very much blood at the Tower of London. Shall I slit your throat? Or maybe I should carve out your heart.

William’s fingertips glided down from the man’s throat and tapped on his chest.

Young Male Prisoner: N-nooo! Stop it! H-help me! Somebody help me!

The young man’s strained cry brought the witnesses to their senses, who hadn’t quite figured out what to make of the situation.

Police Officer: What are you doing, you bastard?! It’s William Rex! Seize him!

William: Ahaha! Now those are some screams.

William stepped back from the man and let out a peal of high-pitched laughter.

William: The customary countermeasure to a cover-up is the uncontrollable testimony of an unspecified number of witnesses.

William: Thank you for your wonderful reaction, Charlie.

Charlie: …What?

William: And from now on, be your own master.

~~~~

After those words left William’s lips, the prisoners who were being controlled crouched down on the spot.

Charlie: My name…

Police Officer: H-huh?! Hey, are you guys okay? Wait! What are you doing to them?

William: Do not come after me.

Police Officer: Gaah?!

William: I have a message for the higher ups of the London Police… Especially the Deputy Commissioner. Don’t you dare accuse them of another crime unless you want all your nasty indiscretions exposed. Well, then. Have a good day.

William shut down his pursues with a single wave of his hand… and then disappeared into the morning mist, leaving only a smile behind.

~~~~

Am I dreaming…? I found myself standing at the entrance to the great hall of Crown Castle. What happened to me…? My mind felt hazy and my memories swam in my head, unfocused. I could see William at the back of the hall. But he had his back to me and wouldn’t turn around. For some reason, I had the feeling that he was waiting for me. I can’t move my body, but… I have to talk to him.

Avalon: Please stay safe… until I can be by your side again.

I thought he wouldn’t hear me unless I shouted, but my voice shook uncontrollably. He didn’t turn around, but it seemed like he heard me.

William: …You don’t need to worry, Avalon.

I wanted to move my legs so I looked down at them, but all I could see there was a bottomless darkness. And before I knew it, my consciousness was sucked back into that darkness again…

~~~~

Liam: How’s Avalon, Roger? She’s not gonna die, is she?

Roger: I sutured her wound right away, and it wasn’t that deep. Most likely due to the fact that the assailant hesitated. However, she did lose a lot of blood. The rest is up to how strong the lil lady is.

Liam’s eyes wavered unsteadily in front of Avalon’s body as she lied in bed. It was the day after the turmoil at the Tower of London and William’s dawn parade. As promised, Liam took Avalon directly back to the castle and handed her over to Roger, but she still hadn’t woken up. No one knew where William was, either.

Roger: You think he’s gonna come back? He’s an ornery bastard, leaving her in such a state and not being by her side.

Liam: You just realized that now? Will’s a bad man. It doesn’t matter how much he captures other people’s hearts… He’ll never belong to anyone. …Or perhaps I should say, he was a bad man.

Liam stared at Avalon’s sleeping face.

Liam: Right before I left him, he was looking at her in a way I’d never seen him look at anyone before. …He’ll definitely be back.

Roger: Well, whatever the case, I’m sure she’d prefer to sleep in her own bed rather han this hard mattress. Guess I’ll carry her up there.

Elbert: …I can do it.

Roger: Whoa! Elbie, you startled me. Hm? Did you say something?

Elbert: I will carry her.

~~~~

Elbert slowly lowered Avalon into her bed.

Elbert: ……

She was still asleep, her breathing shallow.

Elbert: …When you awake, there’s something I want to ask you. And depending on your answer… I may end up wanting you.

Elbert sat down in the chair at her bedside and didn’t touch her or speak to her for a while. He just stared at her with those ocean blue eyes of his. He stayed there until nightfall, waiting until she lifted her eyelids and would be able to answer him.

~~~~

Meanwhile, a certain journalist ran into the post office.

Postmaster: Bryan?!

Bryan approached the postmaster, haggard and weak.

Bryan: I want you to deliver this. Because if I bring it to the newspaper, they’ll surely cover it up. It’s my confession.

~~~~

In my muddled consciousness, I hear a quiet nursery rhyme. “Who killed Cock Robin… Who killed Cock Robin…” It was a very gentle and inviting singing voice. I have to wake up… Because he’s waiting for me. The sound of the person singing brought my body back to its senses. My consciousness emerged from the depths of darkness. Hurry up… I want to see you.

???: …Come, my robin. Answer the curtain call.

When I woke up, the first thing I noticed wasn’t the pain, but his scent of roses.

Avalon: …William?

William: Good morning, Avalon.

He was by my side. And that meant, the selfishness we both forced on each other… had not ended at all. Just as I chased after him, he came for me, our greed ceaseless in its depth.

Avalon: I thought I was your robin. Don’t you think it’s bad luck to sing such a song to me?

I meant to sound teasing, but instead the words came out sweet. And the crimson-eyed king gave me the most gorgeous smile.

[williamroute]

William Rex Route Ch.18

Wait, was that…?! I was distracted from the noise coming from upstairs as I stood in front of Bryan’s jail cell.

Liam: Avalon! Come over here and hide!

Avalon: Huh?!

I heard Liam’s voice and then felt him pull my body toward him. We hid in the corner of a narrow corridor, which I assumed was for cleaning staff, and held our breaths.

Police Officer’s Voice: What do you mean, he ‘may’ have come? Why didn’t anyone let us know?!

Police Officer’s Voice: I don’t know! The guards at the gate were supposed to come tell us, but so far there’s been nothing…!

Heavy footsteps echoed nearby, sunding like they were ascending the staircase.

Police Officer’s Voice: He’s probably not here yet, but in another building…

Police Officer’s Voice: Tch… If it really is Rex, then we’ll have to follow our orders regarding the prisoners and…

My heart ached when I heard them say his name. So it was William… My heart ran rampant, on the verge of panic, so I took a deep breath to calm myself.

Liam: I think they’re gone. Sorry I grabbed you like that. I just panicked when I heard the police coming back so suddenly.

Avalon: No, you saved me! Thank you.

Bryan: Who is that? And where did he come from?

Avalon: He’s a friend of mine and William’s. You don’t need to worry about him.

I soothed a bewildered Bryan, but the panic inside of me wouldn’t settle.

Avalon: William might already be inside the Tower.

Liam: That’s right. What should we do?

The police officers who were in the jail went outside to see what was going on. In that case…

Avalon: Let’s just assume we don’t need diversionary tactics to draw the cops over anymore.

Liam: Oh, I see! So we’ll use the commotion to help these people escape!

Avalon: That’s right. Bryan, a man with black hair named Alfons is going to come soon. He’ll have a key to the cell. Tell him I said to go ahead and take the prisoners to the destination.

Bryan: The destination?

Avalon: He’ll know what I mean. Don’t worry, it’s nowhere dangerous. It’s a special ward of the Royal Hospital.

It’s the only place I could think of where we can hide the prisoners temporarily. The director knows more about the people William saved than I do. It’d take a lot more than one newspaper article to damage the trust between the two of them. I’m sure he’ll keep a secret regardless of the patients’ backgrounds. Harrison should’ve filled in Elbert, who should be on his way to speak to the director right now.

Bryan: Okay, I’ll give your message to Alfons when I see him. What about you two?

Avalon: I’m going to see William. I’m going to try to stall him while the prisoners are being rescued.

Bryan: Stall him…?

I didn’t want to think how William would react if he saw the prisoners in this mental state.

Bryan: Is that why you’re here?

Avalon: …Yes.

The prisoners had already lost trust in him and doubted him because of his “betrayal”, so if he suddenly showed up… and began manipulating the police with his powers, they’d surely view him as the villain, regardless if he were doing it to free them or not.

~~~~

Alfons: They’ll tell them it’s all William’s fault, that he deceived them. That it’s his fault they lost their families, their dreams, their good names, and their happiness. They’ll say, ‘If you’re going to hate anyone, hate him. Look, there he is! He’s killing police officers! He’s insane, a blood-thirsty murderer! If you don’t want to be condemned, then prove that you’re not on his side! The knife’s right there.’.

~~~~

I have to avoid that at all costs…

Avalon: We have to go now. Please take care!

Bryan: Okay… Thank you. You be careful too!

I ran up the stairs with Liam, hearing Bryan’s voice behind me.

Avalon: The police officer said he thought William was probably in another building…

Liam: I heard him say that too. Maybe he meant the one by the gates?

Avalon: Let’s go check it out!

~~~~

William: Get out of my way.

Police Officer: Wh-whoaaa!

Police Officer: M-my legs are moving on their own!

The police officers lined up on either side of the corridor in an orderly manner, like servants welcoming their lord to the castle. William walked leisurely between them, watching them trembling with fear and confusion, and then stopped in front of the last one.

William: It looks like the man in charge isn’t here. Go bring him to me. By force, if he resists.

Police Officer: N-noooo!

The tough-looking police officer was no match for William’s power and began stiffly walking off like a toy soldier. Soon after, the officer who was being controlled dragged in a man with a stern face.

Man: Let go! Do you know what you’re doing!?

Police Officer: I-I’m sorry, Inspector! This man ordered me to bring you here and my body started moving on its own!

William: He’s right. Don’t blame him for it, Mr. Inspector.

Police Inspector: William Rex…!

William: Oh, good! That saves me the trouble of having to introduce myself.

Police Inspector: You monster… What did you do to these men?!

William: The same thing I’m going to do to you. You’ll see. You know all of those people you put in jail because of their relationship to me?

Police Inspector: …What do you think you’re doing?!

William: Unlock all their jail cells. Unlock all their shackles. And then, come back here when you’re done. I want to hear more details about the person who gave you these orders.

Police Inspector: Damn it! Why is my body moving?!

The police inspector cursed at William, a humiliated expression on his face as his body started to walk on its own.

Police Inspector: Even if you use these methods to save them, you haven’t freed them! Society will shun them because of you, and their lives will be filled with misery! And it’s all because you got involved with them, you damned devil!

William: If you care so much about them to lament their misfortune, why did you go out of their way to hurt them without making sure they were truly guilty first?

Police Inspector: …Uhh!

The frigid chill in William’s tone frightened the police inspector into silence. William called after him in a cheerful voice as the inspector headed toward the wing housing the jail cells.

William: But you’re right. Even if I rescue them from here, they won’t be free. Proving their innocence will require a bit of a performance. But don’t you worry, Officers. I’ve already considered that.

He chuckled while the police inspector gritted his teeth with humiliation.

Police Inspector: You’re a madman!

~~~~

Female Prisoner: No… The police are back!

Male Prisoner: N-no, I can’t take this anymore! I’ll confess or do whatever you want, just please help me!

The prisoners started breaking down in sheer terror when they saw the police inspector coming down to the jail.

Young Male Prisoner: Wait, something’s not right!

Police Inspector: Damn you, William Rex! I won’t let you get away with this!

The inspector looked furious as he pulled a ring of keys from his pocket and started unlocking the cells.

Bryan: …What’s going on?

The prisoners stared blankly as the heavy locks popped open before their eyes and the cell doors swung open. One of the men finally understood what was happening once his shackles were removed, and he immediately grabbed the inspector.

Male Prisoner: Does this mean you’ve finally accepted our innocence after torturing us so much?! Come on and say something!

Police Inspector: I’m not doing this because I want to! William Rex is controlling me!

Male Prisoner: Controlling you?! Don’t be ridiculous!

Young Male Prisoner: Wait- Is William here?

~~~~

Something must’ve come to mind when the inspector saw the look on the young man’s face, because he gave him a dark smirk.

Police Inspector: …Yes, he is. Lord Rex, the person responsible for this happening to you, is here. He took control of me and my men with some strange powers so he can forcibly take you all away.

Elderly Prisoner: Take us away? Where? For what purpose?

Police Inspector: You’re murderers just like him, so it’s only natural, right?

Young Male Prisoner: What? We did no such thing!!

Police Inspector: …If that claim is true, then he might be planning on controlling you all and using you as tools for murder. Because right now, you’re criminals who will be shunned by society. But I’m sure you’ll make good slaves for him.

As the superintendent unshackled prisoners one after the other, he rambled on, clearly trying to provoke them with his own conjectures.

Police Inspector: It looks like his power only allows him to control someone physically, but he can’t control the words they speak. Maybe that’s why he relies on the drugs? They’d be awfully convenient tools to take away your ability to speak properly.

Young Male Prisoner: …I won’t let him do that!

Police Inspector: …You’ve got a lot of potential, you know that? You might be suited to be a police officer. I know, why don’t I ask you to do me a favor?

Young Male Prisoner: …Huh?!

The inspector walked up to the young man and whispered something to him as he unshackled him.

Young Male Prisoner: Oh…

The young man had a brooding look on his face as he took something out of the inspector’s pocket. Bryan realized something odd was going on and raised his voice.

Bryan: Wait! We can’t be sure he’s telling the truth…!

Young Male Prisoner: What, are you trying to tell me that both the newspapers and the police are lying?!

Bryan: I can actually tell you something about that! Please hear me out!

Male Prisoner: If William Rex is here I’d rather ask him than listen to you!

Female Prisoner: Where’s Lord Rex?!

Police Inspector: He’s-

Bryan: Wait! Please wait!

The prisoners didn’t listen to Bryan’s pleas and instead, several of them ran up the stairs.

Police Inspector: Hahaha. So brave!

After unlocking the last cell with a mocking smile, the superintendent also disappeared into the darkness upstairs.

Bryan: …Damn it!

Alfons: Goodness, what a pleasant situation!

Alfons passed the inspector as he walked lightly down the stairs. He fiddled with a key ring as he leisurely looked around at all the jail cells.

Alfons: It looks like you didn’t need these keys after all. It seems the only ones left are those unable to move from injuries of weakness… And those wise yet pitiful lambs who still can’t doubt William, even in the worst of circumstances.

Bryan: Black hair… Are you Alfons?

Alfons: Yes, I’m Alfons. Have we met somewhere before?

Bryan: Avalon told me about you! I can tell you everything while we walk!

Alfons: Even though you have an injured leg?

Bryan: Yes… They were a bit rough with me before they brought me here.

Alfons: It looks like it hurts. Shall I show you a nice dream to take the pain away?

Bryan: A dream…? No, just please lend me your shoulder! Avalon… And Lord Rex are in danger!

Alfons: …Fine, then. But to be honest, I’m not very fond of physical labor.

~~~~

What should I do if I missed William? No, I can’t think about that. I just have to find him! The commotion I’d heard moments before inside the tower was now replaced with eerie silence. My anxiety drove me to run faster and faster.

Liam: Avalon, look!

~~~~

Police officers? At the end of the corridor, I saw police officers in an orderly line. They all looked pale and stood there silently, as if commanded not to speak. There’s only one person who could be responsible for this. I looked farther down the hallway, past the police officers. And even in the darkness, I could see his dazzling silver hair. I found him! There he was, the man with the mysterious charms that could make me forget myself with a single glance. He was smug, selfish, yet despite all that was extremely loving and kind. He was a cruel person, yet I could never hate him because when he left me behind he did so with prayers for my happiness.

Avalon: …William!

William: …Hm?

He turned around and looked surprised, as if he’d been caught off guard. His blood-red eyes blinked and stared at me.

William: …Avalon?

I can’t help it… Even though we’re in such a dangerous situation… I’m so happy I feel like I’m going mad… The joy of meeting him plus all the things I wanted to say to him welled up inside of me at once, then pushed me to race over to him.

Avalon: Haa, haa…!

William: ……

He just stared at me with a questioning look on his face. Like he was trying to ascertain why I’d come here and what I was trying to do. There are so many things I want to say, and so many things I need to tell you. But I can’t forget the most important thing right now.

Avalon: I’ll explain everything later. But first, you need to-

???: There he is!

Just as I was about to tell William to leave, a sharp voice rang in my ears. What’s going on?! When I turned around, I saw many people from down in the jail cells.

Avalon: What are you doing here?

William: I made the person in charge unlock the cells.

William was one step ahead of Alfons!

Avalon: Please stay back! It’s too dangerous for you to see them right now!

William: I know. But that is why I want to see them.

William spoke in a soothing voice and took a step forward as if to conceal me behind him.

William: This is necessary for them to become free.

Avalon: What?!

William: Come to me. I’m right here.

Female Prisoner: Huh…?! My body’s moving on its own!

Young Male Prisoner: What the inspector said was true…

The prisoners found themselves being pulled toward William in front of the silent police officers, their faces drawn with fear. Stunned, I watched the scene unfold.

There are only two ways to prove the innocence of the prisoners.

~~~~

Avalon: There are two ways to prove their innocence. Either William will admit his guilt and testify that he has nothing to do with them… Or William doesn’t have to answer to any crimes at all.

~~~~

William is trying to do the former. He’s using his abilities to take away their freedom, to crush any lingering doubts inside of them. So they’ll see William as a villain… as their enemy. And that will prove their innocence and set them free.

Avalon: William!

William: Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. It’s a lovely night, isn’t it?

~~~~

William: This doesn’t seem to be all of them. There must be some still left in the jails. Apparently I’ll need to go check later.

William looked at each prisoner lined up in front of him, confirming their identities.

Young Male Prisoner: William! Did you really deceive us?!

Fear and disappointment cast a dark shadow over their eyes. My heart felt like it would rip in two.

Avalon: No… Please don’t do this, William!

William: Well, let’s see. I forgot your name, so I don’t remember if I did or not.

Young Male Prisoner: -Ngh!

That’s a lie! He definitely remembers him!

William: Still… Those are terrible injuries.

William muttered painfully. He said it on purpose, to agitate the young man. And the man was enraged, just as William wanted.

Young Male Prisoner: And who do you think is to blame for that?! It’s your fault! You devil! You murderer!

Avalon: No!!

I didn’t want to admit that technically, yes, the young man was telling the truth. William even killed his own father without remorse, and has killed many people he deemed to be evil. He’s committed more than enough crimes to be deemed a devil. But…

~~~~

William: Nobody can save everyone. Just because you couldn’t save them doesn’t mean you have to kill a part of yourself, Avalon.

~~~~

To me, and to those loved by him… William is a savior who changed our world. He’s someone you want to give even a single flower to. He’s someone you find yourself searching for on street corners. He’s a special kind of person who leaves a lasting impression on your heart, like a rainbow that never fades, or a passing rain shower. And this may be obvious, but… He’s only human, just like us.

~~~~

Avalon: Was last night’s punishment enough to prevent the resurrection of the Golden Butterfly?

William: That remains to be seen. Evil is stubborn, and will return again and again. We must keep our eyes out to make sure another caterpillar doesn’t achieve metamorphosis.

~~~~

Even if you can’t save everyone, you’re a stubborn person who can’t stop fighting.

~~~~

William: I’ve dedicated my life to my own self-righteousness, and I will continue to do so. That is, until the final double barline of the Curse’s song arrives to cut off my head.

~~~~

He’s so frustrating at times because he’ll even sacrifice his own life in order to stick to his ideals. But William… You’re the one person I love.

Avalon: William, please, you need to leave here at once!

I wanted to block his ears from the things they were saying, whether they were true or not.

Young Male Prisoner: I won’t let him go! I’m going to prove it with this!

Something glittered in the young man’s hand. The candlelight reflected in a sharp blade. A knife-

Young Male Prisoner: You are not my benefactor… And we are not your friends! I will clear the names of everyone who was captured because of you!

William, please use your power. Please order him to stop.

Young Male Prisoner: Aaargggh!

The young man’s screams somehow sounded far away. He came running toward William with the knife, the whole scene playing out like it was happening in slow motion. William…

William: ……

William just looked at the young man and smiled lovingly, holding his arms open as if welcoming him in. And then my body moved. My heart commanded it to. If someone is calling William evil and thrusting a sword toward him… Whether they’re righteous or not, whether this is the end William wants or not… I want to be his shield and protect him. After all, I came all this way for these selfish desires. And I will not leave empty-handed.

Liam: Avalon!!

And for the first time in my life, I felt a knife pierce through my skin. If this was the end… If I had to sacrifice myself in order to save William… Then it wasn’t a bad life. Because I was able to choose what was important.

The Tower of London, which had been swallowed up in a vortex of anger until just a minute ago, was now filled with silence. Only the sound of the rain, gently embracing the darkness of the night, accompanied the silence.

William: …Avalon.

A drop of warmth fell on the cold silence. His eyes were a perfect mixture of love and sorrow. Completely focused on Avalon, who lay in his arms.

William: …I remember wiping the blood off your cheeks the night we met.

His blood-red nails gently caressed her cheek. All the while, a similar crimson gradually spread across her white clothing. Like a flower blooming and changing color.

William: And ever since that night, I’ve been thinking… Red is your color.

[williamroute]

William Rex Route Ch.17

As the rain struck my window, I opened my door. I’ll go talk to Victor first. Every time he spoke of William and Crown, he had affection in his eyes. But he’d also decided that he couldn’t mobilize Crown for this incident, so I wouldn’t be able to persuade him with ordinary means. I can’t be timid. I have to go for it. I took a step into the hallway, and then…

???: Avalon! See, I knew she’d come out eventually.

Huh? I turned to see Liam, Harrison and Alfons. They were standing by the window and looking at me.

Avalon: What are you all doing here?

Harrison: How about you? You look upset.

If I can convince Victor, I might be able to get Crown to help. So there’s no reason to lie or cover up the truth now. Besides, Harrison and Alfons will see right through me.

Avalon: I was thinking of going to negotiate with Victor.

Harrison: I figured it was something like that. If you were the type of person to obediently go wait in your room after being told to do so… there’s no way William would’ve grown so fond of you.

Harrison’s mint green eyes stared at me intently.

Harrison: If you’re going to turn back, now’s the time. You can stay holed up safely in the hospital until you can return to your normal life. Your normal, everyday life, where it doesn’t matter if a certain villain lives or dies tonight. There’s a path for you to go home, toward that warm sunshine.

Come to think of it, Harrison said a similar thing the night we first met.

~~~~

Harrison: Sorry to spook you, but this is just a rehearsal for a play.

Avalon: Y-you’re lying…

Harrison: …Y’know, it really would’ve been better had you at least pretended to believe it.

~~~~

He even lied to keep me away from this world of darkness. Maybe that lie was just his way of being kind.

Avalon: Thank you, Harrison.

I smiled with gratitude for his concern, but at the same time my smile was an apology.

Harrison: …Yeah, well.

He smiled faintly and shrugged, as if he already knew my answer.

Harrison: You’re going to negotiate about the Tower of London, aren’t you?

Avalon: Yes, I want to get in there and free the innocent prisoners before William can.

Harrison: And then what? How are you going to prove their innocence?

Avalon: …I admit that’ll be difficult. Even if we tried to appeal to the court that their arrest was unwarranted, the judge would probably just dismiss it.

If the arrest was orchestrated by the Privy Council, then there’s collusion going on by the police, so we can’t count on them. And the courts will use their association with William to put some trumped-up charges on them.

Avalon: There are two ways to prove their innocence. Either William will admit his guilt and testify that he has nothing to do with them… Or William doesn’t have to answer to any crimes at all. The latter might be possible if Bryan writes a new article… but I’m not sure it’d be enough. But until then, their freedom and dignity will continue to be damaged. And William won’t stand by and let that happen. I don’t want the prisoners to get hurt, and I don’t want William to get hurt either. So I have to try.

Harrison: …Let me ask you one thing. William has killed people. Do you think it’s right for those crimes to go unanswered?

Avalon: No, it’s not right. Killing people is a very terrible sin, no matter the reason or the circumstances. But I can’t just sit around and let him be condemned for the things he’s done when he did it to try to help people, either. And maybe that’s my own self-righteousness, but I have to try.

William saved me. He rescued me from the mundane, he listened to my heart, and he encouraged me. And he’s done so much more for others. So I know how other people who William has saved must feel, too. And how meaningful that is.

Avalon: Even if it’s not right, I want to do the things that are right for me.

Harrison: …I see.

Avalon: Right now, we have to save the prisoners and stop William from being lured to the Tower of London. And eventually, we’ll prove their innocence. That’s what I think is the right thing to do.

Harrison: And that’s what you’ve been thinking about this morning? Persuading Victor to go along with this plan of yours?

Avalon: Yes. I want everyone to help, so I’m going to ask him to-

Harrison: You don’t need to do that.

~~~~

Avalon: What? But…

Liam: Victor said to be as quiet as possible so no one finds out, remember? He didn’t say not to do anything, right? So we can do anything we want as long as we’re quiet about it.

What…?

Avalon: Is that what he meant? What about the whole, ‘I can’t mobilize Crown under the name of the queen’?!

Alfons: It means ‘I can’t give you orders, but go on and do as you see fit’.

Avalon: Wh-what…?

Harrison: Yep. That’s what it means when that weirdo is concerned.

Liam: Let us escort you to the Tower of London. Ahaha, I can’t wait! I heard there are ghosts in the dungeon there!

Avalon: Wait, you’ll help me?

Harrison: We’ll move with as few members as possible so we don’t stand out. Liam, you can just conceal yourself on the way there, right?

Liam: …Up until now, Will would’ve praised me for trusting him and waiting. But he’d be really sad if we just let you go off by yourself without saying anything. And I want Will to praise me! And I want you to praise me too!

Avalon: Liam…

When he said he couldn’t wait to go to the tower, his eyes were filled with a crazy sort of curiosity. But right now they were filled with a desperate loneliness, like someone searching for a waypoint in the pitch blackness. I still don’t know his story, but… It seems like he really relies on William’s support.

Harrison: I’ll support you from the outside in case of emergency. Al, I still don’t know why you’re here.

Alfons: Elbert asked me to come.

Avalon: He did?

Alfons: Yes. He said, ‘Your ability is suitable for infiltrating the enemy headquarters’.

Alfons brought his lips to my ear. A decadent, sweet scent filled my senses.

Alfons: I always thought that if William were to be killed, it would be by an innocent civilian.

Is that the kind of things you think about?

Alfons: It seems I’ll be able to enjoy an interesting spectacle either way, so I’m coming with you.

It sounds like he doesn’t care if William lives or dies, or if the prisoners are freed… He just wants to come along for the show?

He didn’t seem to be taking any of this seriously. How was I supposed to rely on him at all? If my feelings showed on my face, Alfons wasn’t offended by them. He just grinned at me.

Alfons: Haha, don’t look so worried. I’ll fight if need be, of course.

He realized he won’t be able to get by with just his selfishness. I don’t care what his motives are as long as he’ll help, though.

Avalon: Thank you!

We discussed how we would get to the Tower and what we would do inside, then formulated our plan.

Harrison: There are a decent number of people inside. It’s not easy to break out of jail. So if we get there and think it’s impossible, then we’ll just do recon this time and come back later.

~~~~

We left the castle in secret and headed out into the rainy London streets.

Liam: Let’s go. If you get scared, just close your eyes.

Avalon: O-okay! Ahh!

All of a sudden, a floating sensation took over my body, and I instinctively held my breath with fear. Liam easily jumped from one rooftop to another, holding me in his arms.

Liam: Will taught me this route. He said he likes it because it’s so pretty- Oof!

Avalon: Please don’t fall, Liam, I don’t have nine lives.

Liam: Ahaha! Isn’t it so thrilling being up so high? No one can see us up here! Will is a genius at enjoying life, isn’t he?!

I desperately clung to Liam, who had quite an erratic smile on his face. I should talk about something to distract him!

Avalon: A-Alfons, have you ever used this route?

Alfons: Yes, I occasionally use it with my ‘friends’ ever since Liam showed it to me. We play a game where you have a glass of alcohol every time you make a successful jump, and if you get scared or fall, you lose.

That sounds like a dangerous game. Are these people really his friends?!

Alfons: Well, it’s certainly the perfect route for tonight’s operation. The police are swarming through the city.

I looked down and saw policemen everywhere. If we’d been walking, they definitely would’ve caught us. A cold sweat ran down my spine as I remembered having that gun pointed at me. I felt a deep sense of relief that we were hidden by the darkness of night. I never thought the darkness would make me feel safe…

~~~~

Finally, we arrived at the gates of the Tower of London. Liam disappeared, and Alfons tied my hands in a strangely expert manner, then gently removed his leather gloves.

Alfons: Shall we go?

~~~~

Alfons: Hello there.

Guard: Excuse me, but who are you? If you don’t have a pass…

Alfons: What? You don’t recognize your colleague? Even though I went to all that trouble to bring in this prisoner?

When Alfons touched the guard’s neck and whispered, the guard’s demeanor completely changed.

Guard: Oh, that’s right. You can go through.

Alfons: Thank you.

The gate opened and we slipped inside. That really is such a convenient ability.

Avalon: Why did you tie me up when we could’ve pretended I was bound if you were just going to use your power on him anyway?

Alfons: My, my! You’re very clever, aren’t you?

I knew it!

Alfons: Oh, are you angry?

Avalon: …I suppose getting tied up is a cheap participation fee.

Alfons: Ahaha! You’re funny. I’m glad I got to borrow you from William for the day!

He’s acting like I’m a toy…

~~~~

Alfons and Liam used their abilities to deceive the guards, exactly according to our plan. They stole documents from the office to see where the innocent prisoners were being held. We ran through the cold interior of the tower in silence, relying on the blueprints to guide our way.

Liam: This tower used to be where they imprisoned and executed high-ranking political criminals.

Alfons: Luring William to a place with such a terrible history using commoners as bait… Grimsley is quite the fiend, isn’t he?

Liam: Al, Avalon! I hear something coming from downstairs.

We all strained our ears and I could hear screams coming from below.

Avalon: Let’s go.

~~~~

With each step down, the screams grew louder and my heart beat faster from how painful they sounded. Is this it?

Alfons: This is the place.

I hid myself in the corner of the stairs and peeked down. The screams of tortured prisoners echoed through the layers of iron bars.

Police Officer: You’re guilty, aren’t you? If you don’t confess, you’ll never walk again!

Prisoner: Stop! No! I swear I’m innocent! I didn’t know he was bootlegging drugs! I still can’t believe it, there must be some mistake!

Police Officer: You built your company with his support! Was it just a way for anyone to get free drugs?! You were selling drugged-up people as slaves, weren’t you? You’re the worst kind of hypocrite. Tell me where he is!

Prisoner: No! I don’t know! I really don’t know!

Police Officer: Heh. Do it, now.

I stifled a scream when I saw the police officer force the prisoner’s head into a bucket of water. They’re really doing this… I looked at the cell next door, where a group of emaciated people were glaring at each other.

Young Prisoner: Why do we have to go through this? It’s all his fault!

Elderly Prisoner: How can you talk about Lord Rex that way? Think about all he’s done for you! How can you just turn against him?

Young Prisoner: Don’t be stupid! Then why did Lord- Why did William disappear?! If it’s a mistake he can just come out and say so! The reason he disappeared is because he’s guilty! I told him I wanted to prove that people who grew up in the slums weren’t worthless! He even wrote me a recommendation letter to the university and said I could do it! I wish I could believe it was all lies. I don’t want to think he was buying and selling people from slums and using them as tools! I thought he was my benefactor, but he tricked me, and I’ll never forgive him!

I knew it. They’re redirecting their anger about the situation onto William. This is what the police say is “justice”? Arresting people with no proof, no lawful documents, and torturing them? Why would anyone ever trust who the police labels as criminals? But if William comes here, he’ll hear everyone cursing him. I’m sure he won’t mind, but I will.

Liam: Avalon, are you okay?

Avalon: It’s okay. I know where the prisoners are. Now… Alfons will get the keys to their cells, right?

Alfons: That’s right. Don’t worry, it’ll be a piece of cake. You two hide until I get back. Alfons walked away. I was just about to confirm our escape route with Liam when-

???: Ughh…

A familiar voice came from the cell closest to us. I looked over, my eyes widening in surprise.

Avalon: Bryan?!

~~~~

Liam: What? The reporter?

I recognized his fiery red hair at once. But he looked very weak, as if he’d been beaten. Why is he here?

Liam: Wait, Avalon. I’ll go make some noise and distract the police. You ask what’s going on. I’ll be right back after I lure the police away.

Avalon: Thank you.

Liam disappeared into thin air and a few seconds later… I heard a loud noise farther down the corridor.

Police Officer: What was that?!

The officers ran to check the situation. Now! I ran down the stairs and rushed over to Bryan’s cell.

Avalon: Bryan…!

Bryan: Huh?! Avalon, what are you doing here?!

Avalon: That’s what I want to ask you! Why are you here?

Bryan: …I went to question Grimsley. And he confessed without hesitation that the crimes he made me write about were false accusations. He told me that Lord Rex was part of a group of assassins, who could not be judged by the law…

~~~~

Grimsley: Still, it’s true that he’s a mass murderer. Nowadays, new laws have been established due to the actions of revolutionaries, and the rights of citizens have been expanded. Don’t you think a group of assassins is an anachronism? If you’re clever, you’ll understand that it’s good for England to keep quiet.

~~~~

Bryan: I couldn’t say yes and asked him to give me some time. I was attacked on my way home and brought here. What are you doing here? Were you captured, too?

Avalon: No, I snuck in here to free you all.

Bryan: But why?

Avalon: Because-

Just then, I heard a commotion upstairs. There was a loud voice like an angry roar, a horn, and many footsteps. Don’t tell me…!

~~~~

A black silhouette gracefully descended from a single carriage.

Guard: Hey, is that?

The red and gold of his overcoat and his flowing silver hair were wet with raindrops, the reflection of the streetlamps making him gleam in the night. The man slowly looked up as he walked toward the gate. His crimson eyes glowed enchantingly in the darkness.

William: Good evening. Sorry to bother you so late at night. It seems good friends of mine have been invited inside. Would you let me in?

Guard: William Rex…

Just then, the sound of a high-pitched horn echoed through the night. Security guards and police rushed to the gate in an instant and pointed their guns at William.

Older Police Officer: You are accused of murder! Quietly drop your weapons and surrender!

William: Ahaha, what a warm welcome. Now… who should I dance with first?

William seemed to be in no hurry, gazing casually toward the officers as if he were window shopping in town.

William: You hold innocent people captive for your own selfish purposes, torture them, and violate their freedoms. And if there is room for extenuating circumstances, it must be an order from someone in power.

Older Police Officer: What are you talking about? Put your hands up! Because if you don’t…!

William: Put my hands up? Of course. If you feel remorse for what’s happening right now in the Tower of London, put your hands up.

Older Police Officer: -?!

Young Police Officer: H-huh? My arms! But I’m not moving them!

William stared down the police officers, watching them all react to his order. Some were mystified when their arms raised up involuntarily, while others stared at their colleagues with bewilderment.

Older Police Officer: You bastards! You’re going against my command!

One of the men, who seemed to be their superior, barked at the other police officers. William gently smiled at him.

William: Don’t scold them like that. They’re just being honest with themselves. If you raised your hands, stay still in the corner. And those who didn’t raise their hands… are guilty.

[williamroute]

William Rex Route Ch.16

Police burst into the room at Bryan’s signal, with guns drawn.

Police Officer: Avalon, was it? You seem to know a lot about Lord Rex. You give us the information we want, and we’ll protect you. No harm will come to you, but you need to cut ties with these men!

…As if. The cold barrel of a gun was pointed at me as they tried to determine if I was a victim, or an ally of William’s. I remained kneeling by Bryan’s side. If I resist, will I cause trouble for Crown? No- As long as none of us are arrested, the police won’t be able to find out who they are and Crown’s existence won’t be revealed. Right now we have to get out of here. I just don’t know if I’ll have another chance to try to convince Bryan.

Jude: Listen, I think you got the wrong idea. We dunno anyone named Rex.

Ellis: We’re here to collect debts owed to us.

Police Officer: It’s no use trying to lie. We heard their conversation. She’s trying to protect Lord Rex. And we’re going to find out why. If you try to defy us… Then we’ll consider you friends of Lord Rex. I’d suggest you cooperate and let us arrest you unless you want to die here.

Jude: Ugh… See? This is why I hate coppers…

Jude jerked his chin and Ellis sprang into action.

Police Officer: Get down!

Ellis: Shooting a gun in a small room like this is really dangerous, you know.

Police Officer: Whaa-?! Wh-what’s going on? My hands!

Ellis leapt over the officers, touching their heads. Their wrists snapped together and their guns clattered to the ground, leaving them in a panic. Jude was fighting against an officer who’d slipped from Ellis’s grasp before he could activate his power. I skimmed the area for something- anything, I could use to help them. Then suddenly, a sharp voice rang in my ear.

Police Officer: Bryan! Get the woman!

Bryan: !!!

I spun around and saw Bryan sitting up. He threw his bound hands toward me. No!

Avalon: Oww!

I tried to twist my body to dodge him, but Bryan grabbed hold of my hair and pulled.

Bryan: I got her!

Avalon: L-let go of me!

Bryan: No, you’re coming with me! Once you’re back to your normal life you’ll snap out of it! You’re being tricked!

Avalon: How weak-minded do you think I am?!

The more I tried to get away from him, the more intense the pain of him pulling my hair grew.

Bryan: You’ll regret this someday! You’ll never be happy, aligning yourself with someone like that!

Avalon: That’s for me to decide!

Bryan: I just want to correct your mistakes!

It’s no use. He’s not capable of having a calm conversation anymore. We need to get out of here and I’ll just have to find another way. Even if I get caught, Jude and Ellis will be able to escape. But… I’m sure I’ll be detained at the police station. Then not only will I be unable to try to persuade Bryan again… but I won’t be able to get any kind of information regarding William. And I won’t have that. I was no match for Bryan’s strength, and he gradually pulled me closer to him. My heart pounded, the pain in my scalp searing. I have to get loose. His grip is too strong, damn this hair- And just like that, a flash of gold flew through my mind. I shoved my hand deep into my pocket, brushing against the hard, cold metal inside. I wrapped my fingers around the hilt of the knife, abandoning every single one of my hesitations.

Avalon: If you like my hair so much, then take it!

Bryan: What are you-?!

~~~~

I pulled my sharp knife from its sheath and sliced off my hair in one swift movement.

Bryan: -!!!

Finally free from his grasp, I darted away from Bryan, out of his reach.

Avalon: Haah, haah!

Bryan: Why would you go to such lengths…?

Avalon: I know you’re worried about me. But I refuse to give in. I believe in what William’s done. Just like I believed in you.

He fell silent, looking astonished. And then he murmured…

Bryan: …Grimsley.

Avalon: What?

Bryan: The Chief Secretary of the Privy Council. Grimsley.

That’s who put him up to this?!

Avalon: Is he the one who invited you to the mansion that night?

Bryan: …Yes.

The next moment, the toe of a fine leather shoe slammed into Bryan’s abdomen.

Bryan: Arghh!

Jude: Ya called these blasted cops on her! Never were gonna let her go, were ya?

Avalon: S-stop! He just told me the name of the man who put him up to this!

Jude: Huh? Already?

Jude scornfully looked down at Bryan, who lay groaning on the floor, and snorted.

Jude: I was this close to killin’ ya. You got a warped sense of justice, ya know that?

I looked around and saw that the battle inside the post office was done. The policemen all lay on the floor with their hands bound together, as if they were praying.

Avalon: …Did you kill them?

Jude: How dumb are ya? They look dead, huh, do they? You’re just some Rex fanatic who tried to threaten a reporter. All we did was come here to collect the money he owed us ‘n walked into this mess. Why would we kill anyone?

…Ah, I see what he’s doing. It’ll make sense if anyone questions it. It would look way too suspicious if he killed them, and this gives them a good reason to be here without linking us.

Jude: I just put ‘em to sleep. They’ll wake up in ‘bout three hours ‘n be just fine.

So that’s Jude’s ability, then. Now it makes sense why Victor said it would be easy for Jude to step in if something went awry.

Ellis: Jude, I looked everywhere. No one else is hiding. No one ran away.

Jude: All right. You can release ‘em now.

Ellis: Got it. ‘That’s enough’.

Bryan: Waah! H-huh? I can move my arms now…

The policemen’s hands fell to their sides. Ellis’s words just now must’ve been the signal to deactivate his power. The way they worked together was so impressive, but I didn’t have time to stand around looking amazed.

Avalon: Let’s get out of here. We need to give Bryan shelter, too.

Jude: Huh?

Bryan: …!

Avalon: If Grimsley finds out he leaked information, word will spread that he’s a traitor and then he’ll be in danger.

Ellis: True. Then he won’t be able to retract the article and write a new one.

Jude: Should’ve just had him write it here, then we could kick him to the curb.

Avalon: Having him write the article and protecting him are two separate matters. I just want him to write the article. I don’t want to see him get hurt. I came here to convince him myself because I want to help William. Bryan has the freedom to make his own decisions and do what he wants based on what he’s seen too. That’s why I don’t hold a grudge against him. But I can’t let him go knowing we’d be putting him in danger. William wouldn’t want that, either.

Bryan: ……

Jude: One minute this bloke rips out your hair ‘n the next ya wanna be nice to him? You’re a weird bird.

Bryan: …Thank you, Avalon. But I can’t let you give me shelter.

Avalon: Why not?

~~~~

Bryan: Because in order to figure out if I should correct the article or not… I have to make sure that I’m standing on the side of justice.

There was a calm light in Bryan’s eyes that wasn’t there before.

Bryan: I promise I’ll contact you again. So please let me go for now.

Ellis: What do you want to do, Avalon?

I think Bryan heard me out. And now he’s going to try to see if I’m telling the truth. Whether he accepts the truth about Avarus’s death and corrects the article is up to him. Letting him go is a gamble. But if I take away his freedom, I might destroy even the faintest bit of hope for him to retract the article. I took a deep breath and made up my mind.

Avalon: All right. I’ll wait for you, then.

Bryan: Thank you.

I watched hopefully as his figure disappeared into the thick fog.

Jude: Tch. So what’ll ya do if he comes back ‘n says ‘Nah, I decided against it’?

Avalon: Then I’ll try to persuade him again. As many times as it takes. I’ll find a way.

It’ll be okay. I have to believe that voicing my thoughts was the right thing to do, and that it’ll work. I have to do everything in my power right now to help William. First, I need to tell Crown who was behind all of this.

~~~~

We went back to the castle, being extra careful that no one was tailing us. Something seems strange. Even though it was early morning before dawn, all the lights were on and a tense mood hung in the air.

Ellis: Did something happen?

There was the same kind of uneasiness inside that I felt a few days before William left the castle, and so I rushed into the dining room.

Avalon: I’m back!

Liam: Avalon! Thank goodness you’re safe!

Everyone is gathered here again. Did something happen to William?!

Victor: Avalon, Jude, Ellis. Welcome home. Was your meeting a success?

Calm down. We have to give our report first.

Jude: He gave up the name pretty easily. Grimsley, from the Privy Council.

Victor: Grimsley, hm? I see…

Avalon: I said my piece about the retraction and correction of the article. Now it’s up to Bryan. We just have to wait and see, hoping he realizes it’s the truth.

Ellis: Also, the police ambushed us and we got into a bit of a brawl.

Elbert: The police…?

Lord Elbert murmured uneasily.

Alfons: Good thing you made it back, Avalon. If they’d caught you, you might be getting tortured in the Tower of London right about now as well!

Avalon: As well? What do you mean?

Harrison tossed some documents onto the table.

Harrison: Citizens connected to Lord Rex have been arrested and are being held in the Tower of London. It seems they’re being tortured so they’ll give up his location and the names of his accomplices.

Avalon: What?!

Harrison: Here’s the list of prisoners.

Avalon: How did you get this?

Harrison: Does that really matter? You recognize any of these names?

Fawcett, James…

Avalon: Yes, these are acquaintances of William’s.

Some were attendees of the Mad Tea Party, some were from the special hospital ward, some I heard on the street. But they were all names of people who William had supported in the past.

Elbert: …The Privy Council’s never taken such drastic measures before. They’re really intent on destroying Will this time. And that’s why they’re trying to make him angry… in a way that will infuriate him the most- robbing people of their freedom.

Ellis: And not only that, but they’re torturing innocent people.

Roger: It’s cruel. There’s no way Will see this and look the other way.

They arrested innocent citizens and are torturing them to anger William and draw him out. There’s still something off about this, though.

Avalon: How would the tower guards or prison guards counteract William’s power in order to arrest him?

Liam: What?

~~~~

Avalon: If they’re the ones torturing the innocent citizens, then William would deem them to be evil. And he won’t hesitate to use his powers to kill them. So I don’t think they’ll capture him very easily.

Liam: That’s true.

Avalon: Let’s say that they do somehow capture William. If they want justice for what William has done, then they’d need to try him in a court of law. But…

~~~~

William: By the time I learned about the Butterfly, it had already grown to be something beyond what the law can control. The House of Lords is the ultimate power in this kingdom. If the lawmakers are colluding, it would be easy to cover up.

~~~~

Avalon: There are legislators who are allowing and participating in evil. I don’t think William will just silently stand by and let them judge him.

Alfons: Hehe… That’s true. If he steps into a courtroom, it’ll turn into a sea of blood. The loss of spotless integrity and justice, the collapse of order. It’s the outcome the Privy Council would despise the most.

Avalon: I don’t think the Privy Council can predict that. But no crooked jailer or judge will be able to kill William. On the other hand, I doubt the Privy Council wants to get their hands dirty either. So how would they judge William for his crime?

A bad feeling worked its way into my mind and took shape.

Victor: How do you think?

No way… I don’t want to believe that’s possible…

Avalon: …They’d need to get innocent people to kill him…

Liam: What?

Alfons: Ohh, I see! Yes, with a script like that, now it makes sense why they’re torturing the prisoners. They’re using them as bait to lure William out. At the same time, they’re planting ideas in their head about William being evil. They’ll tell them it’s all William’s fault, that he deceived them. That it’s his fault they lost their families, their dreams, their good names, and their happiness. They’ll say, ‘If you’re going to hate anyone, hate him. Look, there he is! He’s killing police officers! He’s insane, a blood-thirsty murderer! If you don’t want to be condemned, then prove that you’re not on his side! The knife’s right there.’. …Not a bad plot, eh? I’m curious to see how William would react to that.

Roger: Whether it goes how Al guessed or not, it’s definitely possible.

And if it came to me, then surely the idea came to William as well. And yet he’ll still choose to go to the Tower of London. Because he’ll never allow freedom to be taken away from the people he cares for. If he falls into the hands of an innocent, he’ll be executed in the Tower of London. That’s the kind of destruction he wishes for.

Jude: Listen, I heard what y’all had to say, but Crown’s not goin’ to the Tower. Rush in there ‘n you’ll be doin’ exactly what the Council wants ya to. It’s a suicide mission!

Victor: Jude is right. I can’t mobilize Crown in the name of the queen in this situation. Everyone needs to be quiet about this, so word doesn’t get out. Got it?

It’s different from having a secret meeting with a reporter. Going to the Tower of London would be going straight into enemy territory. I tried to absorb what Jude and Victor were saying, but I couldn’t get that bad feeling out of my mind. I just need to focus on what I can do right now.

Elbert: ……

~~~~

As dusk approached, the relentless ticking of clock was accompanied by the sound of pouring rain hitting the window panes. After our meeting, I returned to my room and spent much of the day thinking. I stared at the closed door with quiet resolve. Right now, my plan was to convince Victor that we should rescue the innocent prisoners before William could get to them. That was the best I could think of right now. Maybe William only had a one percent chance of getting hurt. But at the same time, he might be banking on that one percent chance of dying. However… I can’t let that happen. The suffocating feeling I got when I thought about William’s destiny had disappeared without a trace. The moment I cut off my hair with the knife William had given me was the moment I abandoned any hesitation. I didn’t harbor any helplessness or guilt in my heart. Just selfish desire. Even if there is only a one percent chance of William getting hurt, I want to do everything I can to protect him. If I don’t, I can never be the master of my own life. I didn’t want to go back to the old me, who suppressed all her true feelings and cowered in front of closed doors. William…

~~~~

William: Because I like watching people act as their own masters.

Avalon: Act as their own masters…?

William: It means facing your own desires and being prepared to accept the consequences of them. Like when you said ‘I want to help her!’ as you held that girl in your arms. Whether what awaits is happiness or misfortune… You can’t blame someone else for the results of the choices you made of your own free will. That’s why the moment when you take a step forward is so beautiful.

~~~~

If you saw me now, would you smile and say I was beautiful? I don’t have to accept your destiny, and I’m no longer held captive to “good” expectations. I want to protect William, no matter what contract I have to enter into, or what I have to give in return. And I was going to be faithful to my desire to do so. William, loving you won’t make me lose my freedom. Because right now, I’m the freest I’ve been my whole life. I put my hand on the doorknob. I was about to cross that final line William had brought me to. It was a forbidden line, one he told me I should not cross as he let me go with a cruel kindness. “Come on… Come on.” I felt like I could hear a voice beckoning me from the other side of the door. “You already know. Every single thing that’s happened since the night you heard him play piano… You don’t think any of that is bad. You think it’s good That day- that night when you heard the Minute Waltz… You could have set down the letter and walked away. But the reason you didn’t- the reason you couldn’t leave… was because the sound of his piano had already drawn you in. It was frightening and beautiful all at the same time… And you fell in love with the sound of it.” That’s why “I” have come this far. That’s why I chose “my” heart. So that I could cross this line. The voice that I heard from the other side of the door echoed in my head. I don’t care what anyone says about my decision. But I’ll never say I’m unhappy because of it. Because I am the master of my own life.

[williamroute]

William Route Passing Rain

I closed the door while listening to Avalon’s anguished voice. I headed for the entrance to leave the castle and saw the reaper waiting there for me.

Victor: You’re leaving?

William: Yes, Avalon is in my room. She can’t move right now. Go to her once I leave the castle.

Victor had never refused any of my requests. However, today he didn’t have any intention of answering, “Of course, with pleasure”.

Victor: Harrison once said your love was like the rain.

William: I’ve heard people say that. It’s an interesting expression. It sounds like something someone who reads a lot of books would say.

Victor: I think it’s a strange way to put it as well. Rain pours down in a one-sided manner, after all. And at some point when you stand there enjoying it, it just passes by. Rain takes no notice of sprouts.

Ah, so you’re worried about me leaving Avalon behind… without breaking my stance to respect her will. You’re trying to ascertain whether I have hesitations. Exactly as I’d expect from “the aide to the queen”. I smiled faintly and shrugged.

William: Intangible things take different forms in every person’s heart. Ask people what they think love or happiness is, and you’ll get as many answers as there are stars in the sky. My answer hasn’t changed, Vic.

Victor quietly lowered his eyes, already well aware of my reasoning.

Victor: Yes, of course. I figured as much.

The image of Avalon pleading to come with me flashed through my mind. The robin had a wistful gaze that contrasted with her cautious and chaste demeanor. Every time I whispered to her, every time I touched her, she made my stubborn heart melt. I truly enjoyed spending time with her. But…

~~~~

Avalon: Please wait one moment! It’s true that I might not be able to accept the fate you’re destined for right now, but… Maybe one day I can live by your side, without being bound by the guilt and helplessness of being unable to change it. So, can’t we just bet on that possibility? Give it a chance and see, rather than avoid it altogether?

~~~~

After the article came out condemning me, she chased after me because she was concerned… But at the same time, she was trying to suppress the way she felt. She was trying to make an effort to accept my wish for ruin. You were kind enough to suppress your emotions just because you weren’t able to save a complete stranger. So there’s no way you can accept my fate. So I let her go. I let her go so that she would be able to find her way home again, despite her hesitation and anguish. So that she wouldn’t forget to cry again.

William: Now she can feel happiness, rejoice, and feel angry and sad. She can listen to her heart and cry out.

~~~~

Avalon: You’re cruel, William! This is- it’s sadistic! How dare you! You do all this to me and then just leave?! You… you… You bastard!

~~~~

She cursed at me pretty well.

William: She’ll fly away from this castle and meet people she was unable to when she was suppressing her feelings. She’ll go to places she’s never gone before and feel things she’s never felt before. That’s what I wish for her. She’s free to do whatever she wants, whether it’s good or bad.

Just because she happened to have her heart saved by an inhabitant of the dark night… didn’t mean she had to make the dark night her final home.

Victor: I know. Your love is like the rain, but it’s a passing rain. But haven’t you forgotten the most important thing?

William: What’s that?

Victor: She’s clearly different from the other people who have longed for you and reached out to you. And I don’t mean how you met or where you stand. Although, it does have something to do with it.

William: ……

Victor: She deeply wished to understand your wickedness, and learned of sins no ordinary people could ever touch. And even though she knows about your destiny, she’s still fighting to love you.

William: …And?

Victor: Even if she finds her way home, do you really think she would feel that will lead her to happiness?

William: Ahaha! You’re certainly taking the robin’s side now, aren’t you? I’m stunned that you’re criticizing your dear accomplice’s bad nature after all this time. 

Victor: Did you know they say that robins bring water to sinners in purgatory to refresh them, but end up burning their breasts in the process? She’s got that same way about her, don’t you think?

There was a mischievous glint in Victor’s eyes and I could tell he was testing me.

William: Does she? Even if she fell into purgatory, I’d hope she would find her way home before she got burned. As long as she didn’t die smiling in the fires of hell.

I have no intention of going along with your wordplay any longer, Victor. I won’t change my mind. I gave him a firm look and then turned around.

Victor: Go on and give into the darkness of your wicked heart… Take care then, Will.

The Grim Reaper smiled thinly behind me as I left.

~~~~

-The police’s grasp didn’t extend to this mansion, which looked like nothing more than an atelier from the outside.

Ethan: There are a lot of police officers roaming around the city. I think it will be difficult to make contact with the outside for a while.

I was at one of my safehouses in London, the rooms filled with a beautiful silence.

William: It’s fine. I don’t need to contact anyone for a while.

I looked out the window at the quiet falling rain. And I remembered the way she smiled with pleasure as she got soaked by the rain. Goodbye, Avalon. I wish you nothing but happiness, from the bottom of my heart.

[williamroute]

William Route Beyond Good and Evil

William: Whatever the purpose, taking away someone’s life is never righteous. It crushes their dignity and takes away their freedom forever. A sin is nothing more than a sin.

How does it look in your eyes?

William: And if you can’t forgive my sins, I won’t mind if you point your knife at me now.

The night we met, I’d smiled as I pointed to the golden knife I’d handed her. Avalon’s eyes widened in shock.

Avalon: I-I…

She desperately pushed out the words from her trembling throat. It was like I could see her heart quivering.

Avalon: I… won’t do that. Because William, I…

Because you love me? I knew that her heart longed for me. And that she knew what she was attracted to was not good. She reached out her hands driven by a mixture of desires- envy, longing, curiosity, lust… and she looked exquisitely beautiful. But at the same time, it was also sad. Because before, she hadn’t known the true nature of what she wanted- the true nature of my evil. But now she finally understood… just how sinful these hands were. The gravity of the sinfulness of conquering evil with evil. How you feel and how you respond is up to you, Avalon. Just like getting wet in the rain, or who you make love to. Just follow what you feel with your body and heart. Her throat tensed up as she tried to painfully choke out the words.

Avalon: I…

Her mouth opened and closed over and over again, trying to catch her breath. And then her body pitched to the side, her strength undone by the shock and stress.

Elbert: …Avalon!

Elbert had just walked in and immediately caught her in his arms.

William: You’re such a kind person, but you had to witness something so cruel. It upset you so much you fainted. All the color was drained from her face as she lay unconscious in Elbert’s arms. Dark expectations throbbed deep inside of me. She stood on the boundary now between good and evil, unable to move forward or turn back. How beautiful would that moment be when she was finally able to shake off her conflicts and take the next step? And which way will she go once she wakes up? I’m looking forward to seeing it, pitiful little robin.

~~~~

The next day, I found Avalon in the garden, talking to Elbert. I’d just returned to the castle after making various arrangements.

William: ……

I stood at a distance, staring at her. Well, Avalon? Let’s compare answers. Was wanting to be loved by the Self-Righteous Monarch… a good thing, or a bad thing?

William: Roger told me that you’re all right.

Avalon: Yes. But how are you?

William: Not a scratch on me, as you can see.

I gave a shrug and her body lost all tension. Heartfelt relief came to her face and suddenly- Her eyes wavered fiercely, tinged with heat. Avalon… A shiver went through her. Deep inside her body, a hungry fire exploded. Oh, how fantastic. She was about to cross the line between good and evil.

Avalon: Can I come over there by you?

William: Of course, if that’s what you want.

She shakily took a step forward. The vines of ethics and morals that wrapped around her legs almost seemed visible. Ahh, I can hardly stand it. She moves her legs forward, desperately dragging all the hesitation and confusion along with her. Only last night, they were shaking and motionless. But now she moved them of her own free will. It was heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time.

William: Make sure you don’t trip on the shrubs there.

Her steps quickened. Show me more. Show me how you’re changing. I wanted to see the moment where she cast aside all the things that weighed her down and allowed herself to change freely. I’d reached out to many people to satisfy this instinctive desire. And she was one of them. 

William: That’s right. That’s a good girl.

She was already within reach. Her eyes brimmed with anticipation so full she looked like she might burst with it. I won’t withdraw. So you need to come to me. She threw her body forward as if to shake off that last bit of hesitation.

William: Oof…

She flung her arms around me tightly as she fell against my chest.

William: Someone’s very eager today.

Avalon: I’m sorry I fainted yesterday.

William: There’s nothing to apologize for. I know that you felt something so overwhelming it was hard for you to handle. That’s not a bad thing.

Her breath trembled as I rubbed her back soothingly. Every time I touched her, her expression melted so sweetly… like another link of the chain was cast off. Beautiful Avalon… If you want me, I’ll give you as much as you desire. Until the day when you can obey your will… and be completely free… to fly off on your own.

[williamroute]

William Route Self-Righteous Pardon

William: …Do you want to go outside?

Avalon: No, I’m fine. I want to see it with my own eyes.

William: …All right.

The Golden Butterfly was forcing poor people to produce drugs that they would then use to protect their interests. The drugs robbed them of their free will, and they were in a filthy place where their freedom, dignity, and even thrift lives were expendable. Faced with this cruel reality, Avalon staggered, unable to take it all in, but frantically kept her eyes open. I stared at the scene unfolding before us, just as she did. …It’s very unpleasant. A stubborn memory came to the forefront of my mind. It was the sound of people screaming, trapped in an almshouse as it burned to the ground. The sound of them frantically banging on the door, trying to escape. The figure of my friend who had been shot up with a deadly poison against his will, dying in front of me. A policeman who pretended not to see. My father’s sinister smile. The taste of the leather muzzle I gritted my teeth against, sealing my ability. I had decided not to use that power… But I remembered the night that changed my mind, when I decided to use my power to condemn this kind of evil. What I saw before me eerily resembled that night.

Faint Girl: …Ahhh…

A girl carrying a heavy-looking bag staggered out in front of us and let out a hoarse groan.

Avalon: Are you all right?

William: Hmm?

Avalon should’ve been dumbfounded, but her body sprang to action immediately… and she knelt down without hesitation to pick up the girl.

Avalon: She doesn’t look hurt, but…

The emaciated and trembling girl could only stare blankly into the void. Her eyes were empty, as if she’d given up on anything… like there was nothing left inside of her.

Avalon: Oh…

The moment Avalon realized this, all the emotions vanished from her face.

…Hm? But it wasn’t the same reaction as when she saw an abused victim for the first time. There was no confusion, no surprise, no sadness, and no anger. Her profile was like a gaping, hollow hole. Helplessness and guilt. It was like she was blaming herself that this girl had collapsed in front of her and not asked for help. Her heart had been slowly opening up since the incident at the bank. But now her expression lost its color, as if the buds were slowly closing up again. Oh, I see. She wasn’t overwhelmed because she was seeing this kind of scene for the first time. It was because… she’d witnessed it many, many times.

William: …Avalon.

I finally understand why you torture yourself so. And I understand what it is that pulses so violently deep in your eyes. She was overwhelmed by a helplessness that could not be fulfilled… so much so that she took the burden of the sin upon herself. You didn’t want this to happen. You wanted to “save” the people whose freedoms were robbed, who were stuck in this dark abyss. And yet she could do neither. And she blamed herself to the point where she didn’t allow herself to feel joy, pleasure, anger, or even sorrow. How foolish and pitiful… yet so very kind you are.

William: Avalon…

I gently tapped her on the shoulder, bringing her back to reality.

William: You look pale.

Avalon: I’m… sorry.

William: Why are you apologizing?

Avalon: I’m sorry… that I can’t do anything.

Was she talking to the girl in her arms, or was she talking to me? She repeated her apology as if she didn’t even know herself. I understand the pain of having to overlook such an unforgivable sight. If I didn’t have my Cursed ability, which gave me to take matters like this into my own hands… would I do the same as her? Would I curse my own powerlessness and punish myself?

William: Nobody can save everyone.

Avalon: What?

William: You take on everyone’s emotions into your heart- so much so that you can’t hold all of them. It’s very kind of you to feel guilty that you couldn’t save them. But is that all? Just because you couldn’t save them doesn’t mean you have to kill a part of yourself, Avalon.

Avalon: But I…

She choked up like she had a lump in her throat. The hesitation and frustration of receiving permission to feel all these things was written all over her face.

Avalon: I’m…

You’re almost there. Cast away those useless emotions like helplessness and guilt. Stop dragging your past around and cowering in front of the door. Do what you wish, as you wish. Allow your heart to feel what it feels. It must be the final resistance as she refused to forgive herself. Her lips were pursed tightly together. Ahah. What an adorable attempt at resistance. Her lips quivered as I gently traced them with my fingertips and slowly unraveled them.

William: I think I’ve finally figured out why you’ve been suppressing your voice. Haven’t you punished yourself enough?

She looked at me wide-eyed for a moment before tearing her gaze away. Her eyes turned red and swarmed with building tears… like the feelings she’s suppressed for so long were about to overflow. Oh, it’s so beautiful. She looks so good in red.

~~~~

-Our mission was complete. We successfully obtained the information we were looking for and took care of the guards working the facility.

Roger: We got the information. We also dealt with the witnesses. Now all we have to do is…

Avalon: Let’s rescue the people from the cellar! And contact the police- oh…

Elbert: …Avalon, I’m sorry. But we can’t call the police.

Roger: There are Butterfly members among the police. If they catch wind of this, the Marquis could escape.

Avalon: Right, of course…

Alfons: The only reason we’ve come here is to get information on Marquis Avarus, not to be heroes.

Avalon: Yes, I know that…

“Let’s save them”. “Let’s call the police”. I’m sure you tried to do that before, yet nothing came of it. Even if she saw something terrible while she was doing her job… the places a letter carrier could enter were limited, and the police wouldn’t do anything unless a crime was taking place. If she backs down, the same thing will end up happening. Surely she couldn’t insist we do good deeds after watching us kill people? She looked down for a while, lost in thought. No, that’s not it. She was trying to allow herself to speak up and take a step forward. I listened carefully for signs that she was about to overflow. What does your heart want? Avalon stared straight at the sleeping girl in her arms.

Avalon: Could you at least let me take this girl to the hospital?

Good. Come on, little robin, speak your mind. Stop holding back.

Avalon: I know that I’m under your surveillance. I know that I can’t act alone when I’m on a mission with you. But I promise I’ll return as soon as I deliver the girl to the hospital, and I won’t tell anyone else about this!

Alfons: What if we said we can’t trust you?

Avalon: In that case…

Elbert: Yes…?

Avalon: I’m going to go to the hospital anyway, so you’ll have no choice but to run after me. After all, Her Majesty the Queen has entrusted you all with keeping an eye on me.

Alfons: ……

Roger: Are you just using that as an excuse to get us to do what you want?

Avalon: I… Yes.

William: Pfft… Hahaha!

Avalon: Why’re you laughing? I’m serious! I’ll march off right now, on my own!

The determination written across her face was adorably fierce, and I couldn’t help bursting into laughter. I’d thought this kind-hearted robin who had been silent and pale until just a moment ago… wouldn’t even be able to speak up, and that if she did, she would be weakly begging for help.

William: I can’t believe you’re trying to bargain with us! That takes a lot of mettle, Avalon.

I never expected her to negotiate with us in order to get her way. The change in her is so honest… and so much more than I expected. She blinked as if she didn’t understand why I was laughing. Well, come to think of it, she was the kind of person who tried to kill off her emotions… as punishment for not being able to save others. She wasn’t just kind. She had a clear boundary of what she wouldn’t allow, which extended to herself. An incredibly strong will existed within her. And it was what had me so intrigued.

William: I’d love to see you manipulating us for your own benefit, but I’m afraid that’ll have to wait.

Avalon: So then…?

William: Yes. I’ll call my subordinates.

With perfect timing, the door opened. A group of people dressed in black quietly slipped inside. After exchanging greetings with a shocked Avalon, Ethan and the others descended into the basement.

Roger: They came awfully quickly. Are you sure you didn’t already know what was going on here?

William: Perhaps. Avalon, they’re taking the people in the cellar to the hospital. Do you feel better now?

Avalon: I’m sorry! I completely jumped to conclusions…!

Roger: It’s fine. We had a feeling William had already arranged it, so Alfons and I just played along. Sorry.

Alfons: Excuse me, please don’t make me the villain here.

Avalon: Well, now I feel like a fool. Is there a hole I can hide in?

William: Why should you be ashamed? Seeing you protest so fearlessly like that was the most charming I’ve ever seen you.

Her cheeks flushed when I exposed her embarrassment, and I caressed them with the back of my hand.

William: My perception was right from the beginning. You are noble, greedy… kind and strong.

She stared back at me with feverish eyes. And there in the depths of them, I saw a glimpse of her hidden desires. …No, not yet. You can still change. More freely, and even more beautifully. An instinctive craving welled up deep within my chest. I wanted to tear off everything that confined her desires. It was arrogant of me, but I wanted to see her stripped down completely and flying freely. More. Show me more of your selfishness.

[williamroute]

William Rex Route Ch.15

It felt like an eternity, but it was possible very little time passed at all. After I heard the sound of the door opening again, someone’s footsteps approached me. Those aren’t William’s footsteps. …When did I learn to recognize the sound of his footsteps, anyway… I could move my body freely now, but I didn’t bother to hide the tears streaming down my face. I was frustrated with William, but even more with myself… I slowly sat up and saw Victor standing there with a sad smile on his face. He’s given me that same smile before…

~~~~

Victor: Are you prepared to stand firmly by his side and embrace his beautiful loneliness… and his destiny?

~~~~

I thought about it while waiting for the door to open again.

~~~~

Avalon: It’s true that I might not be able to accept the fate you’re destined for right now, but…

~~~~

Would things have been different if I’d been able to tell him “I can accept all of you without hesitation”? But… no matter how much I think about it, I just can’t get to that point. The thought that William could be murdered at any time was so painful I couldn’t even think straight. How could I ever prepare myself for that? Loving someone deeply and the fear of losing someone were two sides of the same coin.

Avalon: Has William already left the castle?

Victor: …Yes. Just a little while ago.

It’s too much… How could I possibly be okay with ending this so suddenly, forced to think of him as nothing but a memory? How can I stop myself from wanting to run after him, just because he’s afraid I’ll get hurt?

Avalon: William… is selfish! Not only that, he’s- he’s self-righteous! Unfairly so!

My voice sounded hoarse, as if it were spilling right out of the new wounds etched upon my heart.

Victor: He is. That’s the nature of his curse… But also the path that his heart has chosen. I want everyone in Crown to be free. It’s not my place to interfere with how William lives his life. I apologize… And of course, I won’t interfere with your decisions, either. If you hate him or resent him, that’s up to you.

Avalon: …William used his power on me. He rejected me so completely that he stole the one thing he values the most- my freedom. And his reasons were entirely selfish! He said he doesn’t want me to be unhappy.

Victor: And did William explain his reason? Well, I suppose even if he did, that wouldn’t change the fact that it’s selfish. And that’s why you’re angry.

Avalon: Precisely. He wants me to hate him or give up on him because he’s a villain, and I have no intention of doing so.

Victor quietly listened to me vent.

Avalon: Just because he thinks loving him would be inconvenient doesn’t mean that I can just shut off the feelings I have for him.

The feelings he knowingly caused, at that. And if I kill the feelings inside my heart, all that’ll be left is bitter regret. I learned that from spending my days with Crown… and from William. I can’t just stand around and watch him get hurt. It’s his prerogative to not want me by his side. And I can respect that. But it’s also my prerogative to want to clear up the unfounded lies accusing him of crimes he did not commit.

Avalon: Victor, I realize this deviates from my duties as the Fairytale Keeper, but I have a favor to ask you.

Victor: What is it?

~~~~

Avalon: I want to correct the newspaper article. Can you arrange a meeting for me with the members of Crown?

Victor: ……

A brief smile appeared on Victor’s lips- one that sent a shiver down my spine.

Victor: I’ve already called everyone to the parlor hoping to discuss our next move. You may come and join us, if you’d like.

~~~~

Liam: Avalon!

When I stepped into the parlor, the first person to rush over to me was Liam.

Liam: William told us not to open the door until he left the castle. I was really worried about you, but I couldn’t go check on you. I’m sorry.

Avalon: I’m fine, Liam, thank you. You apologize way too much for things that aren’t your fault.

Liam: I- Haha! I think you’re more put together than me, Avalon! And maybe that’s why he turned me down when I told him I’d go with him.

Avalon: Liam…

Harrison: The answer wouldn’t have changed even if you did have your life together more.

Liam’s eyes clouded over with sadness, but Harrison reached out and lightly poked him on the head.

Harrison: You know the reason he left is so that the fire wouldn’t spread to Crown.

Liam: Yeah… You’re right. Ahh, sorry! I totally ruined the mood! Just forget I said anything!

Victor: Sorry to keep you waiting, ladies and gents. Shall we discuss our next move?

Victor’s lighthearted tone of voice managed to silence the conversation. The members of Crown all turned their gazes toward him. I need to listen carefully, too.

Victor: First and foremost, we must be careful not to do anything that will interfere with William’s efforts to protect Crown. You may not engage in any actions that will be beneficial to the Privy Council, and contact with William is strictly forbidden.

Victor raised an index finger into the air like a teacher.

Jude: Tch. Interfere? He’s the one that made this mess! First off, how the hell didn’t he realize there was an outsider at the mansion?!

Victor: William was in fact aware of an invited guest who was present at the scene of Avarus’s assassination.

Wait, that reminds me…

~~~~

William: Don’t worry about them. It might be better for them if they’re not at the scene.

~~~~

He must’ve said that because he already knew a third party had intervened.

Jude: Then he should’ve killed ‘em right on the spot!

Victor: But since he did not, he must have judged the man to not be ‘evil’. Or if he guessed it was the newspaper reporter… Perhaps he kept him alive on purpose, so that he’d publicize his condemnation for the remaining members of the Butterfly to see.

Jude: …Ha! He’s off his head, as usual.

Victor: For thirteen years, William has known very well how the Privy Council works, and the cost of failing to eradicate the Butterfly. They should’ve just used Avarus as bait to draw Crown out. They wouldn’t interfere with what the Marquis did, but most of all they wouldn’t dirty their hands or try to condemn him. Even though they considered the Butterfly to be a blot on England, they silently watched him while pretending to maintain order. …Just like thirteen years ago. If we had let the Marquis go that night, we could’ve been allowing him to victimize more people. And that’s why he had to settle it on the spot.

Ellis: So it’s best not to do anything right now?

Victor: As I said earlier, any action that would work in the Privy Council’s favor is forbidden, as is direct contact with William.

This is Crown’s policy and I have to accept it. I listened to Victor’s words with baited breath, until his gaze shifted to look right at me.

Victor: Miss Avalon, do you have any suggestions of things we can do while abiding by those two rules?

~~~~

Avalon: I want to correct the article and expose the identity of the person who was truly behind it. I know Bryan Bennett didn’t come up with the idea on his own.

Just because William’s decided to live as a villain doesn’t make it right for him to be burdened with the Golden Butterfly’s crimes. I won’t let that happen. Even if William has accepted and even welcomed it.

Elbert: ……

Alfons: Interesting… Pardon me- although this is a very intriguing suggestion, is it even possible?

Avalon: I know Bryan, the man who wrote the article, and I have a way to get in touch with him, too. If he was watching the Marquis get assassinated, then he must’ve also seen how I fainted from the shock. I can tell him there’s something I need to discuss with him, and I’m sure he’ll meet with me, in hopes of getting more information about William.

Alfons: Hmm, I see. That does make sense.

Avalon: And if I can convince him to, I might get him to write a retraction and put the correct information out there. Then, at the very least, that would shake the foundations of the case the Privy Council is making against William in the court of public opinion.

And that will make mobilizing the police at least a little more difficult.

Harrison: So you’re going to ask the reporter who the mastermind is? You think you’re capable of such high levels of persuasion and interrogation?

Avalon: I’m definitely anxious about it. After all, it’s true that William killed the Marquis. And that’s a serious crime. I can’t talk about Crown. I’m not sure whether I can convince Bryan that William has nothing to do with the Butterfly’s crimes. Honestly, it depends on how well Bryan knows William, and how much he’s seen him do in the past. But I’m not going to give up before I even try.

Harrison: ……

If Bryan knows how much William cares for others, and how much he gives of himself… Then I have a feeling he’ll be receptive to what I have to say. Then again, maybe I’ll just be pushing my ideas onto him.

~~~~

William: I also think his strong sense of integrity is quite attractive. Why don’t you go and talk with him?

~~~~

William’s smile was the encouragement I’d needed that day.

Avalon: I’m still under Crown’s surveillance, so I know you might not allow me to meet with the reporter by myself. But I want to help William. And that’s the only thing I can think of right now. So may I have permission to meet with Bryan?

Victor: It might be a good idea for you to be the one who contacts him. But don’t you think it’s a little dangerous for you to meet with him directly?

Jude: Just say the word ‘n Ellis ‘n I can go instead of the commoner.

Well excuse me, aren’t you a commoner yourself, mister?

~~~~

Roger: What’s with the sudden interest, Jude?

Jude: I don’t give a fig about retractin’ William’s article, but the money I get from Crown is valuable income. Can’t risk losin’ that. All we need is for this bloke to spit out who’s pullin’ the strings, right? Gettin’ people to talk is my specialty.

Avalon: Can’t you take me with you, though? I want to try to get answers from him peacefully!

Jude: Rubbish. So we should waste time worryin’ ‘bout hurtin’ people’s feelings? My method’s faster.

Avalon: I understand what you’re saying, but I really think he’ll be receptive if I talk to him. We don’t need to use violence. Please!

Jude: …Poppycock.

Avalon: If you use force from the very start and get zero information from him, then we’ve exhausted all means from the get-go. Is that what you want? Don’t you think it’s more rational to try talking first and then resort to force as a last resort?

Jude: …Tch. Ya got three minutes. No more, no less. Then not a peep after your time’s up. Can’t have some amateur shriekin’ ‘n cryin’ next to me when I’m tryin’ to torture someone.

T-torture?! …Well then, guess I’ll have my work cut out for me, getting through to him in three minutes.

Avalon: Fine, then. Is that all right with you, Victor?

Victor: Hmm… I think so. It won’t be as dangerous if you have Jude and Ellis with you. And if things go south, Jude can just clean things up with his usual methods and all will be well!

Jude: Hey! That makes it sound like you’re just usin’ me.

Victor: Oh, come on, now. Anyway, Go ahead and do as you please, Avalon.

Avalon: Thank you so much!

Ellis: You’re bringing me with you? That’s unusual.

Jude: What’s in your head, Ellis? ‘Cause I know it’s not brains.

Ellis, who had just been thoroughly dressed down by Jude, whispered into my ear.

Ellis: Worst case scenario, I’ll put Jude into a chokehold so you can finish your business.

Avalon: …Um, are you sure that’s okay?

Jude: Course it ain’t! Try it ‘n I’ll kick your arse!

~~~~

I dashed off a letter to Bryan and Victor arranged for it to be delivered in secret. His reply came within a few days.

“The postmaster will keep the post office open after hours tomorrow night. Let’s meet there.

~~~~ 

Finally, the day arrived. It was a perfect night for a secret meeting: a thick fog hung in the darkness.

Avalon: …Let’s go.

Jude, Ellis, and I stood in the back alleyway behind the post office. I was so nervous I thought my heart was going to burst.

Ellis: Be careful. If something happens, call out in a loud voice.

Jude: ……

Jude didn’t reply. He just took out his pocket watch and checked the time. He’s really going to time me! Well then, there’s no time to waste. You can do this, Avalon!

~~~~

I stepped into the eerily silent post office and saw a man with red hair standing there, almost invisible in the darkness.

Avalon: Bryan…?

Bryan: Oh, it’s you!

The color drained from his face with worry as he rushed over to me.

Bryan: I’ve been worried sick, wondering if you were all right! Let me guess- do you want to talk to me about Lord Rex?

Avalon: Yes. Let me be frank. I came here today to persuade you.

Bryan: Persuade me? What about?

Avalon: I read your article claiming that William is involved in human trafficking and the manufacture and sale of drugs, and I want you to retract it.

~~~~

Bryan stared back at me in shock.

Bryan: Wh-why would you ask such a thing?

As if some idea had just struck him, Bryan grabbed me by the shoulders.

Bryan: Is he threatening you? You witnessed the barbaric murder he committed yourself! You fainted from the shock of it all! Listen, if he’s threatening you, then I…

Avalon: Please, Bryan… Calm down and listen to me. The human trafficking and drug-related crimes were actually all committed by the Marquis, not William. William is the one who tried to stop him and-

Bryan: Lord Rex is a monster! He can control people with some strange powers! He’ll even kill his own friends without a hint of remorse if it suits him!

Avalon: That’s not true! He’s human, just like you and me. And Avarus wasn’t his friend!

No, I have to stay calm! Breathe, Avalon, breathe.

Avalon: You were so full of compliments for him when we met. William was always on the side of those who sought freedom, remember? Didn’t you say yourself that he loved encouraging others and generously supported them, regardless of class or status? Do you really think such a person would get involved with human trafficking and illegal drugs, when both of those things rob people of their freedom?

Bryan: That was… It was all a ploy to gain our trust and deceive the public! It was nothing more than self-preservation!

“Self-preservation”? I wouldn’t ever think to describe William in that way.

Avalon: And what about the person who made you write that article? Is that what they told you to convince you to do so? Can THEY be trusted?

My heart pounded violently with sadness and frustration.

Avalon: Who was it that let you into Marquis Avarus’s mansion that night?

Bryan: I can’t… tell you. What about you? What makes you so convinced about William Rex? Why do you support him?

Avalon: I-

I can’t tell him about Crown. At this rate, we’re at a standstill… As I racked my brain for something else I could use to convince him, a scornful laugh echoed behind me in the darkness.

Jude: Heh. Figured this’d happen.

Bryan: …Who are you?

Jude: Does it matter? …Tie him up, Ellis.

A black shadow dashed through the small room, and then Ellis’s large palm touched Bryan’s head.

Bryan: Whaa-?!

Suddenly, Bryan’s wrists stuck together as if they were tightly bound, and he couldn’t move a muscle. That must be Ellis’s ability…!

Bryan: Wh-what’s going on? Argh!

Jude took advantage of Bryan’s confusion and kicked him hard, slamming him to the ground. Bryan groaned with pain as he rolled on the floor, unable to soften the blow of the impact.

Jude: Ya wanna know how she knows so much ‘bout William?

Avalon: Jude, please wa-

Jude: Ya promised to keep your mouth shut!

His voice was so deep it sounded like it came from the depths of the earth itself, freezing me to the spot. …Rude. A smile appeared on his lips, as if he were pleased with my reaction.

Jude: …The promises I make ain’t cheap.

Avalon: I promise I’ll pay you for breaking my promise. But give me more time!

Bryan: Are you Lord Rex’s friends too?

Jude: Not friends. I find ‘em all revolting.

Jude was about to stomp right on Bryan’s face, but I jumped in front of him to save him.

Avalon: Bryan… I know you’re not the kind of person who would write lies and purposefully demean others! It’s true that William killed someone that night. But the rest of that article is nothing but lies! And you’re a better reporter than to publish libel.

Bryan: Are you mad?! You know he’s a murderer and you still want me to retract the article?!

Bryan let out a sharp whistle. The door burst open and men dressed like police silently appeared.

Policeman: Avalon, was it? You seem to know a lot about Lord Rex. You give us the information we want, and we’ll protect you. No harm will come to you, but you need to cut ties with these men!

[williamroute]

William Route Affannato: Breathlessly

Avalon: William, wait!

I ran after William and stepped into his bedroom.

Avalon: You’re really planning to leave by yourself?

William: Yes. There’s no point in leaving the castle if I take the members of Crown with me. It’s for their safety, after all.

William answered me in a light tone of voice as if he were just putting in his breakfast order, while he checked the name on a letter that was just delivered.

Avalon: Where do you plan on going?

William: I have several safe houses where Ethan and the others are stationed, so I suppose I’ll go to one of those.

Avalon: Why is that safer than staying in the castle? If the queen herself owns this property, surely the police can’t just barge in?

William: Not exactly. There are police officers with mettle and integrity who directly negotiate with the queen in order to condemn evil. And if the queen refuses their request, during such an open scandal, it will make the royal family look bad to the public. Besides, it seems the top brass in the police department have been colluding with the Privy Council for some time now. I’m sure they already have the necessary documents in order.

I can’t believe it…

Avalon: Aren’t you interested in who from the Privy Council made Bryan write that article? Why not force them to correct it? If you use your power-

William: It’s true. But when it comes to poison, it’s crucial that it’s used at the time when it will be most effective. It’s not like the Privy Council or Bryan is abusing anyone. They’re just foisting one villain’s deeds onto another one for the sake of convenience. These crimes aren’t enough to lead to a conviction.

But even if that’s so… William’s blunt logic left me at a loss. Here I was, furious that someone had blamed him for acts that not only did he not commit, but that he was actively trying to stop. And yet William hadn’t classified those people as “evil” in his mind. I couldn’t understand it, but at the same time I had to accept it. Because that was just how William Rex was. I’d seen it again and again. But at the same time, a terrifying image flashed back in my mind.

Avalon: If you let yourself be accused of the crimes the Butterfly has committed and allow so-called ‘justice’ to condemn you… It might lead to the worst possible outcome. Is this the kind of ending you want?

I fought to keep the tremble from my voice, the notion of it chilling.

William: I wonder? As I said before, I hope for the cruelest demise possible, and this situation seems like it would fall short of that. But if they drag me out and grace me with the ultimate death, then perhaps it’s best I live up to their expectations.

William smiled merrily, as if he were planning a vacation. Meanwhile, I tried to digest what he was saying.

William: You don’t have to be so worried. They won’t invade the castle. They won’t destroy Crown.

Avalon: That’s not what I’m worried about…

William: As promised, once one month has passed, Victor will let you go. You should write the report by then. I’m sure you can write it even better than Bryan.

Avalon: William, I’m not worried about myself!

William finished reading the letter, then acted as if he had no more business in the bedroom. As I stood in the doorway, he approached me slowly and carefully.

Avalon: I’m not worried about Crown or myself. I’m worried about… I’m worried about you.

I don’t want to just sit here waiting and wondering if you’ve met some tragic end.

Avalon: If you’re going to leave the castle by yourself… Then I’m coming with you.

William: You’re very clever, Avalon. Do you understand the implications of coming with me?

If I go with him, then the police will be after me too. I’ll become an accomplice- a villain, just like William. And that meant I would never, ever be able to return to my normal life again. It wasn’t a momentarily tryst or flirting with love- I would be putting the rest of my life in his hands.

Avalon: …Yes, I understand.

William: Hmm? But I thought you weren’t sure whether you wanted to stay at the castle or return to your life?

Avalon: It’s true that I was uncertain, but…

I looked straight into William’s crimson eyes, determined to shake off my hesitation.

Avalon: There is one thing I do know for certain, and that’s if I let you go right now and take no action for myself, I’ll regret it forever.

William: …You’ve really become even more beautiful than you were before.

I knew that smile. It was the one I’d seen before- gentle as the spring rain.

William: But I can’t take you with me.

He coldly rejected me with that smile on his face. It’s hardly surprising and yet…

Avalon: And why not?

This was the first time he’d refused to accept a decision I made. It was so unfamiliar, so different from everything that’d led up to this point.

Avalon: Didn’t you say I was free to do as I want? Like when you asked if I wanted to go on the mission with you?

William: Of course I want to tell you to do what you want. But at the same time, I cannot let you cross this line.

Avalon: Why is this the exception?

William: Because then the one thing I never want to happen will come to pass.

He’s talking about his wish… The one he wouldn’t explain before.

~~~~

William: Of course I have a wish, too. Something I can’t realize on my own. If my wish comes true, it will lead to something I never want to happen. And so I’ve decided to never realize this wish of mine.

~~~~

I’m not in the mood for puzzles…

Avalon: I surrender. If you wanted to see me squirm, haven’t you had your fill by now? What is the thing you don’t want to happen? Will you please just tell me?

William: …I don’t want you to be unhappy.

Avalon: …What?

The answer he gave was unexpectedly simple.

William: Even if you want to stay by my side, you don’t want to see me meet a tragic demise. Not unless you want to be destroyed as well. If you stay with me, you’ll feel like you have to accept my fate, which will cause you stress, sadness, and pain. It will bind your heart. Helplessness and guilt kills desire. It steals freedom. You should know that better than anyone.

It’s true… Like all the frozen helplessness and guilt I felt when witnessing a reality I could do nothing about. When my heart had been crushed by that feeling, it was William who’d set it free. The thing he wished for more than anything was for people to be free. But… The more I wished to help him and to stand by his side… 

~~~~

I’d have no choice but see the man I love meet a tragic end. What could be more cruel than that?

~~~~

Once again, the inconvenience of having to accept his tragic fate was about to catch me in its snares. Is that why he’s acting like this?

~~~~

Girl’s Voice: If I notice your voice in town, do you mind if I give you flowers? Even if it’s just one?

William: Thank you for the offer, but your words alone are enough for me.

~~~~

Victor: He doesn’t ask for love in return. And even if someone gave it to him, he wouldn’t accept it.

~~~~

In William’s eyes, allowing someone to be special and reciprocating their love is making them step foot onto the path of destruction. And as a result, it robs them of their freedom. Because they already know the fate and the pain that awaits them. That’s why no matter how much love he pours into people, despite how much he gives, he seeks nothing in return. So the wish he has that he can never allow to happen, because he thinks that’ll lead to their unhappiness… How simple. And how tragic. William’s dearest wish was to accept someone’s love. And to live with that special someone until the end of his life.

Avalon: Please, wait one moment! It’s true that I might not be able to accept the fate you’re destined for right now, but… Maybe one day I can live by your side, without being bound by the guilt and helplessness of being unable to change it. So, can’t we just bet on that possibility? Give it a chance and see, rather than avoid it altogether?

If you say you don’t want me to be unhappy… isn’t that because you want to be with me?

William: Even if the time of my destruction is tomorrow?

Avalon: I-

William: You’re so kind. Kind but foolish. I want you to picture something. Right now, you’re standing on the edge of a cliff. You’re telling me that you’re prepared to step off the cliff and slam into the ground. Don’t you see that? It’s different if you’re already down in the abyss, losing yourself in playful desires. You can go back any time. But if you step off the edge now and fall in, you can never go back up to the top of the cliff.

Avalon: Then why would you…

If you didn’t want to be loved, then why…?

Avalon: You knew I was drawn to you from the very beginning. Why would you pry into my heart and expose it, if you knew how I felt?

William: I wanted you to be the master of your own life, and to listen to your heart? I didn’t care whether the end result was that you would love me or leave me. You’re free to do what you want. All I did was make your wishes come true, to the best of my ability.

Avalon: That doesn’t make sense. You’re contradicting yourself. By your logic, if I’m free to do as I please and I tell you I want to go with you, who cares if I end up unhappy one day? It’s my choice after all, isn’t it?

William: Avalon. It’s my choice to not allow your heart to be bound again, to my fate. Right?

Avalon: You-!

How can he be so unfair… And yet so kind…

William: Avalon. I don’t want to use my powers on you.

All the warmth vanished from William’s face. He was always in such a good mood, but now his expression was cold, like he was being forced to do something very unpleasant. In order to not take away my freedom in the future, he was taking it away now. How unfair was that… I’d never seen him look so conflicted in the face of that terrible contradiction. And in that moment, he was human, just like me.

William: So please just do as I say and withdraw.

I know what you’re thinking. But…

Avalon: …No.

I won’t. I refuse. Because if I do, I’m back to being helpless, unable to take action for myself… And I want to love you, even if it’ll bring me pain…

Avalon: Is this what you’ve always done? To the others before me?

William: No one else besides the members of Crown knows my destiny. You’re the first person who’s ever tried to understand my sins, my fate… The first one to get this close, even after seeing it all. No one else has ever done that before.

He stared steadily at me. What an awful way to receive such a sweet confession. I don’t want it, not like this! I squeezed my eyes shut to escape from his blood-colored gaze. My fingers dug into his clothes and I clung to his body, lest he disappear while my eyes were closed.

William: …Please open your eyes, Avalon.

Avalon: I will not.

Because if I open my eyes… You’ll leave.

William: Avalon.

I felt a soft sensation on my eyelids. My body immediately recognized that touch- it was his lips.

William: …You’ve put me in a bind. How can I get you to open your eyes?

Avalon: Ah…

He whispered softly into my ear, then something grazed my earlobe. He nipped at it sharply with his teeth, the warmth of his breath  on my skin making my grip loosen and my knees buckle.

Avalon: William, stop…

William: Well then, what can I do to get you to open your eyes, dear little robin?

I was the one holding onto him so he wouldn’t leave, but now he held me firm in his arms.

William: It seems pain has the opposite effect I’m intending. Then how about pleasure?

His lips traveled down my neck, sending a sweet thrill down my shoulders. Each kiss warmed my skin, sweet and enticing. His hands remembered all of my sensitive spots, tracing down my body. And he knew just how to touch me in order to coax my stubbornness right out of me, those wicked fingers working through my resistance.

Avalon: Ahh, nngh!

William: Your moans are so wonderful…

No, no… This isn’t the right time to do this! I was frustrated with my body for enjoying everything he did to me, and all the sweet words he whispered.

Avalon: Ah!

All of a sudden, I felt a floating sensation and then something soft touched my back. He’d carried me over to the bed. I wanted to get up, but he pinned me to the mattress.

Avalon: William, what-

William: ……

Avalon: …William?

The silence that followed brought a rush of anxiety.

William: Avalon. You mustn’t open your eyes.

…What? He removed my clinging hands from his clothes, his presence moving away from me. The strength of his arms holding me, the warmth of his palms, it all faded like an illusion.

Avalon: William, wait!

And I opened my eyes.

William: I told you no and you disobeyed me. You really are a bad girl, aren’t you?

His eyes softened with affection. That familiar expression was burned into my eyes.

William: Don’t move until the door opens twice.

His voice was warm and kind, and yet it carried out such a cruel order.

Avalon: Wait!

I can’t move! It was like I’d been crucified to the bed.

Avalon: You’re cruel, William! This is- it’s sadistic!

I couldn’t even fight imaginary bonds, left with only my voice to scream and try to stop him.

Avalon: How dare you! You do all this to me and then just leave?! You… you… You bastard!

William: There. I finally heard you curse.

Avalon: What?!

~~~~

William: You can even be harsher with me if you want. Call me a murderer. Call me selfish, if you want. Curse at me.

Avalon: …I don’t know you well enough to do any of that.

~~~~

William: That means you finally know me well enough to do so.

…That’s not fair. Of course he wouldn’t even flinch. Because he was a villain who had dedicated his life to evil. Where’s that etiquette book, to advise me against saying something even harsher?

William: You’ve learned to express your heart so honestly. Now you are the master of your own life.

William fixed my disheveled clothes as if he were wrapping a present. Then he gave me a single farewell kiss on the lips.

William: Until we meet again, sorrowful robin. I pray that you’ll find happiness in your future.

I saw him walk away from the bed in the edge of my vision.

Avalon: I don’t want your prayers, William! William, you bastard, wait!

The sound of footsteps receded, and I heard the door open and close quickly. The strong fragrance of roses lingered in the room, even after he’d gone. The scent gently consumed me, like a nightmare I could never awake from.