Inai

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz’s POV

I…also have a confession I would like to make.

Yes? 

My name isn’t actually Luke…Luke was my favourite character from a novel, but my name is actually Fennesz…Fennesz, Oswald.

I kinda had a feeling it was like that. 

Really? It was that obvious?

No, because I understand not to give away your real name to strangers, it’s a given, hehe. 

That’s true. So you’re not upset?

Why would I be? I had fun writing to you. 

That’s a relief. I had fun as well. Is Molly your real name?

It is…which is why I was afraid if this was some sort of a cursed book. I did watch a movie where there was a phone that was connected to different time period and apparently the other party was a murderer… 

Haha…I thought it was a cursed book too…but pardon me for asking, may I know what a movie is…?

Oh right, there might not be movies in your time yet…um…do you have cameras there? 

We do.

It’s like moving pictures, filmed with camera, and just like a stage play, there is a script and actors would partake in and act out the stories, and they would have different angles and effects and costumes applied in there. It’s really fun to watch and can be rewatched over and over again. 

I see…! That’s fascinating…it’s a futuristic technology!

What do you usually do, Fennesz? 

I usually read a lot, haha.

What kind of books do you read? 

I enjoy history books. My older sister first introduced me to them, she could read at such an advanced level when she was young. I really look up to her and wanted to be like her, so I also started reading more difficult books. But there were words that I couldn’t comprehend and I ended up going back to the same passage.

Aww, you must have really looked up to her. 

Of course. She’s excellent in me than every way. She’s smart, courageous and kind. And I was the crybaby who always hide behind her.

I feel you. I also have an excellent brother, only he’s younger. He also used to be a crybaby too. But now, he’s like an older brother who excels in every way.

Fufu…we’re the same

Mhm…but Fennesz, you have your good sides too. 

Really…?

Yeah! From what I read, you’re empathetic and kind, just like your older sister, and you also sees the good sides to people. You’re hardworking too, because you could read at an advanced level when you were a young boy too. 

I felt kind of touched by her words…as if I was being seen, despite we shared few words together. 

You too, Molly. From your words, I could tell that you’re a kindhearted person who warms others. Please don’t feel discouraged and see your light.

…Thank you, Fennesz. It’s getting late, I probably shouldn’t keep you up late at night, I hope you have a sweet dream. 

You too, please cast your worries aside, and have a good night, Molly.

I cautiously closed the book without making a sound. 

Steady breathing sounds continued behind me. I slid the notebook back on my shelf and blew out the candle. 

Molly from the future. 

I hope we could converse tomorrow too. 

I kept it a secret from my second floor roommates and continued to write to her.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly POV

I learnt that not only was Fennesz’s time not the same as mine, but he was also from a different world. 

He told me that he had to go hunt “angels” and I asked if it was the glowing angel that had wings and flies in the sky. 

We do. If we didn’t, the angel will take the people’s lives.

??? The angels in my world are good and holy… 

They are…?

And witches exist in his world. He thought this book might have dabbled in magic. 

We also have potions too.

Do they work? 

I’m not quite sure, since I’ve never taken them before…but since there were customers and a demand, perhaps they do…?

And Fennesz was hesitant to tell me, but he said he had a contract with a demon which is why he could fight, but he couldn’t unlock his powers because there had to be an “Arujisama” to unlock them. 

Are you sure you didn’t come from a novel…? 

Yes, I’m still here writing to you…I probably couldn’t show you proof…

Then again we have a notebook that comes back every time so I believe you. 

I’m glad…I thought I might sound absurd…

I am still at disbelief because there isn’t anything like what you said in my world…

Therefore, we do live in different worlds and time…

But the reason why you told me about this is because you trust me? 

I do.

We already wrote to each other for days. Pages filling from top to bottom. 

Fennesz also lived together with three roommates, Haures, Boschi and Ammon. 

Although he also worried about writing their names in the book because they advised him that he shouldn’t be this trusting towards someone he doesn’t know, but since I live in another world, it’s not really dangerous, right? 

But I also agree with them too, not that I am a dangerous person- 

That’s true…

It was fun to know about how Boschi and Haures had fought over vegetables again for the tenth time. 

Fennesz had made a pact with Ammon to try to get the two of them along with each other and they try to defuse things that might cause a conflict between them. 

Good luck, Fennesz! You got this! 

Haha…I don’t…but I try…

And I told him things that are in my world too. 

I even wrote down the plot of the shows that I’ve watched and books I’ve read. 

And Fennesz would read them, asking for more. 

Wait…so they were actually working behind the scenes…?

Yup…what a plot twist, right? 

Yes…I think I’m going to think about this while I sleep…

And I confided in him that I also enjoy writing but I’m not good at it. 

I would love to read them! To tell you the truth, I’m also writing a novel.

OOH, what kind of novel is it, if you don’t mind me asking? 

It’s about the butlers…I want to write their stories down.

That’s kind of you to do. 

Having a good memory is helpful when I want to record things. Especially when they all do really amazing things

Would you be writing from your perspective? 

Yes. I want to write down what I saw

That means you’re the protagonist of your book, isn’t it? 

No…I don’t want to be put as the protagonist…no one would want to read my story…

I would! 

Ah…I wondered if I was too bold. But I really would read Fennesz’s story. He’s really knowledgeable about many things and he’s perceptive. 

He’s sensitive to other people’s feelings and he’s also caring. 

I would love to know even more about him.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz’s POV

Heat climbed all over my face and from the mirror reflection, it was as red as poisonous Amanita mushrooms. 

She would read my story, and about me…? 

But I probably shouldn’t think too much of it, she might be saying it out of politeness…

But my heart is thumping as if I just did a morning run with Haures. 

She would listen to me talking about the mistakes I’ve made when I was serving the nobles. 

Oh no, Fennesz…did you get hurt?? 

Ah, I fell, but good thing it was just light scrapes.

Ouch…please remember to apply medicine over them so that they heal faster…! And please don’t be too hard on yourself, the carpet tends to get slippery too, and you were carrying a heavy platter that’s more than usual… 

I’ll try not to…thank you, Molly, for listening to me.

I knew I was going to ruminate over my mistakes over and over in the library, but this time, I wrote in the notebook instead. 

And my heart felt lighter, and a bit more forgiving towards the mistakes I’ve made. 

It felt strange…being worried over like this. 

But I didn’t hate the feeling…rather…it was nice to be cared for like this. 

I wanted to learn more about Molly’s world too, about what she does. 

And when she told me she does translations, I thought about how interesting it would be being able to learn another language. 

I tried to learn another language to read books that are beyond the Central Land, but it’s a slow progress. 

There were phrases in my world that are different than the phrases used in her world. 

She would teach me “slangs” from her world, and even, “memes.” To which I was still confused about, but the little doodles she drew made me laugh when I was working, and I got scolded by the nobles. 

I wanted to take the notebook everywhere, so I would take it with me while I was recording things, and I hid it behind me whenever Haures, Boschi and Ammon were near by.

You would read stories about me…?

Of course, sorry, did that came off too strong? 

Not at all, I felt happy reading that.

I’m glad… 

I would also love to read stories about you too.

Ah…but I’m not interesting- 

You are!

Trust me, if you see me, you’ll know mundane it is- 

But even so, I would still want to read anything that’s on you.

I closed the book. 

I don’t know what came over me…

It’s scary when humans became bolder when they gain confidence. 

But I did tell the truth…I really do want to read more about her. 

I placed a bookmark in between the pages, just to keep track of it. 

But it was gone the next day. 

Did it fell off somewhere?

…….

Fennesz, did you have a bookmark by any chance? 

Yes, I did.

I think it got transferred over to me…the dried flower still has a faint scent on it. 

Ah…yes! I picked the flower myself when I had to travel for work, and I would place the flower in between my book to let it dry and I would make them into bookmarks afterwards.

That’s nice…it’s a really cute bookmark, I’ll put it in the book so you can have it back. 

You could have it. It can be a gift for you!

Really? Thank you, Fennesz. I’ll use it whenever I read a book. 

I’m glad…

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly POV

Whenever I went to a supermarket, there’s always a section with a lot of different mushrooms in the cooler. 

Shiitake, Portobello, Oyster mushrooms, Enoki mushrooms, Button mushrooms and more, if Fennesz were in my world, he would be thrilled to see them. 

I took a picture on my phone and I printed it in my printer to send it to Fennesz in the notebook. 

Guess what I saw! 

Mushrooms, there are a lot in your market!

Your favourite! 

Yes…I wish I could eat them everyday

I started eating more mushrooms because of you, I saw an easy recipe to make for tonight. 

Fufu…I wish I could join you

I’ll take a picture and send it to you!

It’s difficult for Fennesz to take pictures, since he needs to take it from a professional photographer, but he tried to draw out the scenes and write passages of the books he enjoyed to read. 

I tried to see if I could send other things to him, other than paper based items. 

I gave him a bookmark back, one that I bought during my travels. It’s a bookmark that you could pin to the page, it looked like a letter. 

It’s a return gift for yours the other day! 

I’ll use it everyday!

And I would send him pictures I printed, showing him the warm days with blue skies and when it’s snowing outside. He was fascinated by the cars parked outside, and he also marvelled at the lights out. 

They used candles more often. 

I attached some bath salts for Fennesz in the book, and he used it. 

I also included dried mushrooms and it got sent through too. 

And Fennesz would attached dried flowers that he saw, cards that he made, and newspaper that he cut. 

And he would also attach a hand cream he bought from the shop. 

It’s getting cold, so please take care of your hands.

Thank you, Fennesz, you’re just in time! My hands get so dry so easily. 

Mine too, I wish I could apply it for you.

Oh? That was really bold of you, Fennesz. 

Ah, I-I mean…

I know what you mean, hehe. Don’t worry, Fennesz, I was just teasing you. 

Fufu…

While I was curious about how Fennesz looks like, I wonder if he would be curious for me too. 

I don’t really like taking pictures, because I’m not the camera’s favourite. I tend to look awkward whenever there’s a camera near by. 

But it felt kind of like a face reveal, wanting to know how each other looks like…

Before that, we did try to draw how we look like. 

So I used to have black hair that goes past my shoulder, like really long! But because it was summer, so I got it cut, and my friend’s got a dog, whose hair grows faster than me! 

Fufu…maybe your hair wants to keep it light for you so you could feel cooler in the summer.

But it doesn’t help it when it gets all over the place! 

Ah, I did remember read from a book that if you apply hair oil, it can help.

I did afterwards! Thank you anyways, Fennesz. 

Although I shouldn’t say because I also have strands that stick out…they look like this…

Hehe, they look cute, like a little red sprout that grows on top of your hair. 

They do…now that you mentioned it.

You’re tall, too, like a giant. 

No, no…I’m not that tall! But then again, I do bump into the door frame a lot…

Be careful, Fennesz… 

I will…

I also have a mole near my lips. You know how like there are people who have moles near their chin? That’s a beauty mark. But the mole I have meant that I like to eat, which is true, but still! And one time, my grandpa tried to wipe my mouth because he thought it was something dirty, and it was just my mole…that happened when I was little. 

Fufu…that’s a cute image. I can imagine how you would be anxious to leave…

Right? I wanted to go already! 

I used to be scrawny, but I trained together with Haures, so I did gain more muscles. Like this.

You probably have muscles as hard as baguette. 

Baguette…? Pfft…

Whenever I saw butterflies, I thought of Fennesz.

And I had my picture taken. I wanted to appear my best when I send them to Fennesz. 

Would he be disappointed by me? 

Maybe my smile is awkward.

Ah, my hair shouldn’t be too close to my neck. 

Maybe the dress isn’t suitable…

I breathed in and attached the photo and shut the book quickly. 

I’m too scared to see his response.

A monochrome picture slipped from the pages and landed on the ground. 

I picked up and saw it was a professional picture of a young man, smiling. 

He had sprout-like strands sticking out on the top. 

Short hair, neatly cut. 

Warm eyes that waned when he looked at the screen. 

A monocle as decoration. 

His butterfly tie that represented him. 

Strong muscles that are covered with the formal shirt and vest. 

It was Fennesz.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz's POV

“Fennesz-san, are you okay? Do you need to get some fresh air?” Ammon saw that my breath was hasty when I placed the picture inside the book. 

“N-no, I…think I’m fine.” I breathe in more slowly and held my breath. 

The blood pumped into my ears and all I could hear was the muffled ringing of my heartbeat. 

“You don’t look fine, Fennesz.” Boschi glanced up from his bed. “You looked like you just came from the angel hunt.” 

“N-no, I don’t-“ 

“If you’re feeling unwell, Fennesz, you should take a break today, I can finish up your work for you.” Haures came over and asked for the work notebook. 

“I-I’m really fine, Haures, I can finish up the work…thank you.”

Their suspicious gaze pinned me like a butterfly display, but I was able to slip through.

They turned to themselves. 

“Is Fennesz-san still under the spell from the notebook we had before?” 

“Probably, he seems more positive recently, maybe there’s magic.” 

“Fennesz is also working hard too.” 

“I did see him humming more and laughing at himself~” 

“Me too, he seemed to be in a daze or sumthin'” 

“When I call for him, he was still writing in his notebook.” 

“AAAAAAAAAAAAAAH” I screamed.

“Fennesz-san, what’s wrong?” Ammon usually smiled mischievously when he caught someone’s weakness. 

“Yeah. We were just talking among ourselves, why did you scream, Fennesz?” Boschi also smiled, but it was a smug smile he had when he knew he's winning at chess.

“Did we say something embarrassing…?” Haures glanced at me, he looked like he just got caught by Lono for not finishing his fish.

I froze. “I…w-when did you guys found out…?” 

“How can we not know?” 

Apparently, I was really easy to read. 

I would usually feel down in the dumps when the other butlers find me but now I seemed to feel less deflated whenever I made a mistake. 

I would work harder during my training, even wanting to be stronger. 

I hummed whenever I was in a good mood, and that happened a lot, during baths, during work, during supper. 

But what was the most apparent, was that I was talking in my sleep. 

“Fufu…I enjoy talking to you too….M…Molly…” 

And that was the nail that hit the coffin.

……..

“Fennesz-san, you shouldn’t hide in the corner, you still need to wait for her response~” Ammon tugged my shirt to get me out. 

“You don’t have to be embarrassed ‘bout it, Fennesz, we’re used to it.” Boschi crossed his arms. 

“It’s not embarrassing at all, it’s sweet, Fennesz.” Haures tried to comfort me but the shame spread like fire.

“Let me dig a hole and stay there…”

Boschi scoffed. “So what did you put inside the book, anyways?” 

“Y-you guys saw it…?” I peeked.

“I did see Fennesz dressing more neatly than usual.” Haures noted.

“Did ya have your picture taken, Fennesz-san~?” Ammon teased.

“…….”

“Were the two of you exchanging pictures?” 

“…….”

“We’ll take that as a yes.” 

“……”

“Did she give her picture yet?” 

“…..I didn’t check yet…” 

“How come?” 

“…I’m too nervous to open the book.” 

“We’ll do it for ya.” 

“NO-“

My hands were trembling when I hugged the book in my arms. 

I didn’t know what she would think when she sees this picture of me. 

Would she be disappointed by how I look? 

Perhaps her expectation of me would be dropped when she sees the actual picture of me…

Would she stopped talking to me? 

I wouldn’t want that…

I would want to see a picture of her…

I saw it in my dreams before. 

Even though the face was blurry, but I could hear her in my mind. 

And we were in the same world, laughing.

Boschi, as if he read my mind, sighed. “Don’t worry about it, Fennesz. If she’s the one who talked with you day and night, she wouldn’t be put off by your picture.” 

“Yeah, Fennesz-san,” Ammon chimed in. “You know, the noble ladies would ask for you whenever you’re around~you should have more confidence in yourself.” 

“And Fennesz, if you both share similar views, perhaps the fears and worries you have are shared with her too.” Haures patted my back. 

“That’s true…” I remembered that she said she’s not fond of cameras because she felt unnatural in front of them. “But I would think it’s a good picture of her regardless…” 

“So, just open the book.”

A picture flew like gentle butterfly in the air, as light as the autumn leaves that fell from the maple trees. 

I remembered the maple leaf she picked up from the park. She gave it to me. 

Because they were Fennesz’s colours!

And she said it felt like the world is surrounded by me whenever we reached the fall seasons. 

I caught the picture in my palm, the backside was facing me. 

The colours were slipping through when I moved it closer to the sunlight. 

And I slowly turned it over.

The picture was in complete colour. 

I was amazed by the technology, at how crisp the image looked. 

And I appreciated the details shown on the picture. 

Her long hair, she said, used to grow slow, has reached past her shoulders. 

Under the bright light, the brown from her hair looked as warm as the chestnuts roasted in the fire.

Her eyes, I remembered she said that she cried when she heard that I almost lost my life during the angel hunt. I didn’t want to hide anything from her, so I told her about the reason why I wanted to become strong. I traced the bottom lashes as if to wipe away her tears. 

Her eyes shined like dark pearls, of innocence and kindness. 

And the mole she was telling me about that was on her lips. It was difficult to see, but I remembered exactly where it was. 

I couldn’t help but trace her lips, jealous that the lipstick could touch her. 

But it looked beautiful on her. 

Her cheeks, that she said, was chubby like a hamster, were soft, that I hoped I could reach my hand in and poke her. Maybe she would puff her cheeks and laugh when I tease her. 

The white dress fits her perfectly. She had crossed her hands politely, as if she was attending a party. 

And while she said that she was awkward in pictures, her smile was just like how I imagined over and over. 

I wish I could be that photographer who took her picture.

It was exactly like how she drew herself…but the picture was better. 

And it felt like I had been wanting to see how she looked like in a long time…and it was everything that I had imagined to be. 

I traced the picture with my fingers, wanting to capture her in my memories. 

I hope that my picture was also just like how she imagined to be.

“I think Fennesz-san forgot about us…” 

“Let’s just leave him be, he should have this moment.” 

“How about we go train?” 

“Uh…Haures-san, let’s not break this nice mood-“ 

“Haures, you should go train by yourself.” 

“Boschi, I know you were napping when we were training.” 

“Shh…Haures-san, Boschi-san, let’s not fight!”

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly POV

I looked at the picture over and over. 

I couldn’t help it. 

I took a picture of Fennesz’s picture and saved it on my phone, and kept the original picture safely in another book. 

I didn’t want the fragile paper to rip if I put it in a drawer. 

I tried to make the monochrome picture into the colours Fennesz told me. 

His hair is as bright as the maple leaves, a strand that is golden near his left cheek. 

He said his eyes are the colour of magma, but I think they reminded me of the sunset, who painted the sea with its warm colours. 

Whenever I met with his eyes, my heart always skipped a beat. 

He’s the most handsome man I’ve ever seen, and he was more than the art he drew of himself. 

He forgot to mention the cute furrowed brows he had when he smiles. 

The way his cute bang drooped over his face. 

I can imagine that he would always tuck his hair strand behind his ears whenever he reads. 

And whenever I see monocles, I think of Fennesz. 

I once read that monocles are stuck between the gap between the cheekbone and the eye, he must have had amazing cheekbones. How cute.

His lips looked soft to touch, and his smile could easily melt me. 

I wish I could be the one to make him smile. 

Because he surely did make mine. 

My stomach is filled with blue butterflies, and my mind is rewritten by you, Fennesz.

…..

The pages have reached the end, and we found loopholes by writing in between the gaps. 

I’ve learned to write tiny words that you can see with a magnifying glass, and Fennesz would squint whenever he writes back. 

We really thought the pages would grow more, the more we write, but it remained the same. 

I asked him about the picture, and he told me that he kept it safe near his drawer. He admitted that he sees it every day and talked to my picture. He said he felt embarrassed confessing that to me but felt like he had to. 

And I told him the same thing, I looked at his picture on my phone and took him everywhere. 

When the gaps were filled from corner to corner, we wrote on the cover. 

But the book glowed, blinding me with its light. 

And the pages spread and flipped from start to finish. 

No, no, no. 

No, this isn’t happening! 

No, you can’t!!!

Why is it that when I want the book to leave, it never leaves but when I have integrated it as part of my life, it suddenly wants to disappear? 

I scribbled quick before the light ceased. 

And whatever I wrote afterwards, Fennesz never wrote a response back anymore.

.

.

.

I love you.

……..

The book and the contents remained, but everything fell silent. 

It felt like a dream. 

The gifts Fennesz sent me, the picture he gave me, they’re still here to remind me that he was real. 

Whenever I wake up, the corner of my eyes were wet with tears from my dreams of Fennesz. 

I didn’t want to forget about him. 

But I didn’t have the courage to open the book, knowing he wouldn’t be there anymore.

……..

The more I kept myself away from the book, the more my heart aches. 

So, I opened it. 

As I was flipping through the book, I noticed that there were words that were circled. 

Fennesz had circled the words before the book ended our conversation. 

He was trying to tell me something. 

Ah, I fell, but good thing it was just light scrapes.

In Autumn, it’s getting colder, so please remember to wrap yourself with a scarf.

I also love reading fictions.

Of course, always, I’ll care

for you, I can do it!

You are my everything, is that the song lyrics?

Trust me, you’re amazing

Those thoughts stay with me

Don’t leave yourself behind, please also remember to take care of yourself

miss you and your words

always been you

I think this should be right

love your thoughts on this

He always remembered where the words are located…

He has a photographic memory, after all…

He would have read the book over and over again…

Just to confess to me…

And I wished that I could see him again…

I want another book to be able to write him again…

I want to tell him that I love him. 

How wonderful he is…

How much I want to be with him and I miss him a lot…

…..

“Meow~” 

The black cat dropped a golden ring on the ground. 

I didn’t know if I should take it to the police station, but I heard voices inside my head. 

“Put it on.”

“They’re waiting for you.” 

”Won’t you save them?” 

And I slipped the ring on my finger and lost my consciousness. 

…..

“Please wake up…” 

In front of me, the person smiled warmly, relieved that I woke up from my slumber. 

“W-who-“ 

“I’m Berrien, I am one of your butlers.” Berrien crossed his hand over his heart and bowed. “Please call me, Berrien.” 

“Berrien….?” 

It was a familiar name to me…I remembered Fennesz looked up to Berrien, because he’s calm and is an incredible problem solver…but is that the same Berrien…? 

…..

“Oh my, Berrien, our Arujisama has finally arrived, I see.” Lucas bowed politely. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, my name is Lucas.” 

Arujisama…? The Arujisama that unlocks the butlers’ powers…? The demon bonded in contracts…? 

And Lucas…the doctor of the infirmary and is very good with communications…Fennesz would help him collect medicinal herbs in the forest. 

……

“S-shit, I gotta hide!!” The blonde butler barged into the room. 

“Lono…you’re being rather loud. Please try to be quiet in front of Arujisama.” 

Lono…I remember he would make delicious mushroom dishes that Fennesz likes. An amazing cook in the mansion…

….

“That’s Haures-san, to you.” The blue haired butler smacked Lono on the head. 

Haures….Fennesz’s roommate, Haures?? The one Fennesz looked up and compared himself to a lot, who’s really amazing at fighting and fights with Boschi and doesn’t like fish, that Haures…? 

“Arujisama, may we know your name?” 

“I-it’s…Molly…”

Haures seemed to look at me in surprise and he observed me from head to toe. 

He tried to open his mouth but he didn’t say anything, but he stayed in the back while Berrien was explaining what was going on. 

It felt like dejavu but everything was exactly like Fennesz said, only, I didn’t see Fennesz. 

I went on angel hunt with Lono immediately after the siren blared. 

The angel in Fennesz’s world is truly terrifying to meet in person, but Lono seemed to shrug it off with ease. 

…..

I wanted to confirm more details, so when Berrien said I could try to take off my ring, I went back to my world and took out the notebook. 

First floor: Berrien, Lono, Bastien. 

Second floor: Haures, Boschi, Ammon and Fennesz. 

Third floor: Lucas, Lamli, Nac 

Basement floor: Miyaji, Flure and Lato.

Fennesz would speak of them fondly, always wishing to be closer to them but fearing that they wouldn’t like his book recommendations. 

I circled the ones that I already met.

Berrien, Lucas, Lono, Haures. 

And as for Arujisama…did they said that I would be the one to unlock their powers…? 

So, Fennesz wouldn’t have to be hurt anymore… 

“Arujisama…Arujisama…please hurry back…” 

….

Fennesz never mentioned a talking cat. But in a world of demons, angels and magic, it’s not a surprise that cats can talk too. I patted Muu a lot. 

…

I felt sorry to Boschi when I went back home. It was never my intention to let him get hurt…but during the time I was away, he had fought the angel without powers…

I should have stayed here longer…

….

I heard the ruckus coming from the garden. 

Muu followed behind me as I looked for the source of the scream. 

Strawberry gradient hair…who works in the garden…who is drenched by the hose…that’s…

“Ugh, this sucks! I’m absolutely soaked!” 

“That’s Ammon Lead, according to Lono-san’s notes!” 

And Fennesz’s too. 

It’s been days, but I’m starting to wonder if Fennesz is in this same world. 

Maybe this is a parallel world that doesn’t have Fennesz…

“Hey Ammon, can ya tie up my hair for me?” It’s Boschi again. 

They seemed to get along well just like Fennesz said. Ammon usually takes good care of Boschi’s hair, and they looked like brothers. 

They seemed shocked when they saw me though. 

“Huh…the new Arujisama, right, nice to meet ya, I’m Boschi.” 

“I-I’m Ammon, I look after the garden…say, Arujisama, have we met somewhere before?” 

“Um…I do feel like we might've met before….only…is there a Fennesz Oswald here…?”

“T-there’s AHCHOO-“ 

“Ammon, yer gonna catch a cold if you stay like that.” 

“You’re right, I should at least change my shirt.” 

“Hey Ammon, I heard someone shouting, did something happen?” Haures walked over to the garden. 

….

Boschi and Haures are arguing before my eyes…it felt like I was seeing celebrities in real life… 

So this is what Fennesz usually sees. 

“Haures…Don’t be so harsh on Ammon.”

…

The voice from behind me was so gentle, it could make me cry. 

I’ve never heard his voice before, but from his writing, I always imagined his voice would be soft and gentle. 

“Ah, Fennesz-san!” 

Muu looked up at me, holding the note, “so that’s Fennesz Oswald, the one you were saying before, Arujisama!” 

“It’s lovely to meet you, Arujisama, I’m Fennesz Oswald.” Fennesz had bowed his head, but he didn’t see me yet. 

“Looks like someone is waiting to see him.” 

“It’s a pity that out the four of us he saw her the latest.” 

“I don’t think he believed me when I told him…” 

“Fe-…” I searched online for the right pronunciation but I wasn’t really sure if I was calling his name right…I practiced over and over again, hoping to call him…and I did. “Fennesz…” 

“Yes…Arujisama?” 

“…Are you really Fennesz…?” 

“Yes, I am Fennesz Oswald.” He paused, beads of tears forming at the corner of his eyes, “I believe we have met before…” 

He walked closer and held my hand. 

“Molly-sama.”

The End 

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Bonus

“I saw the circled words you left behind, Fennesz.” 

I chose Fennesz as my main butler in charge, but it felt strange, having him to call me Arujisama. 

“Y-you did…? But I also read the last line you wrote too…on the cover.” 

“Ah…” I felt even more shy now that I saw Fennesz in person. Even though we wrote nearly everyday, and there was a sense of familiarity, but meeting Fennesz in person still felt daunting to me. 

“Fufu…and…the words that I circled…um…” his face is also a blushing mess. “Is also…a response to that…” 

“You probably read through it over and over to remember the placement of the words, didn’t you…?” 

“I…I did…” 

When I headed back home to get my notebook, our books finally reunited with each other. 

If we were to throw this book away, it’s not going to come back to us. 

But instead of a magic book, a golden ring made its way to me. 

And I was able to meet Fennesz. 

I glanced at him and felt his contagious heat on my cheeks too. 

“Arujisama…” 

“Yes, Fennesz…?” 

“Let’s…get to know each other first, slowly.” 

“I agree…too.” 

“And maybe…” 

“Maybe then we could hold hands.” 

“…!” 

“But now…” 

“…I enjoy being by your side, smiling beside you.”

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Epilogue 

“Do you ever regret meeting me?” 

“If I were to go back in time, I would have write in the book immediately to know you better.” 

Fennesz held my hand in his. 

His hands were large and comforting. 

He took out the notebook and handed to me. 

“Oh, I remember this, did you want me to go back to the memory lane, Fennesz?” 

“Fufu…only if you want to.” 

I flipped open the pages. “Your confession was really sweet, and I would read it over and over again, but I don’t want to get my tears on this page. Did you know you made me cry a lot?” 

“I didn’t…but I wished I could wipe your tears for you. I cried too, after the book ended.” 

“Me too…I wished I could see you…and, it’s really my favourite par-“ 

I saw a ring, a butterfly ring with a red jewel, the same red as Fennesz’s hair. 

He gave me a ring before for Travel’s safety during my third year here, a souvenir, but it felt like a promise ring. 

It was a little bigger than I imagined, so we went back to the shop together and got the right fit. 

But this ring inside the book felt more serious than before. We talked about the kind of ring we would get if we would ever get married.

“May I?” Fennesz held his palm towards me. 

I nodded and placed my left hand on his. 

And he slid the ring on my ring finger, a perfect fit this time. 

“You didn’t even have to ask if I want to marry you, hehe. You knew I would.” 

“Ah…I should have asked…! It wouldn’t be formal-“ 

“No, no, I like the confidence you display, you didn’t have any hesitation at all~” 

“I…it’s true…because we did talk about this before but I still think I should ask you-“ 

“Then…”

I took out a small box and opened it in front of Fennesz. “this isn’t a pinky ring anymore, Fennesz…will you marry me?” 

The ring had a different butterfly, but we both decided to have stones the same colour as Fennesz. The warm autumn colours that surrounded us.

“I…I do…! Y-you’ve taken the words out of my mouth…” 

“Then, let’s do a redo! I don’t mind!” I slid the ring and handed it back to Fennesz. “Not married anymore-“ 

“Fufu…um…” Fennesz stood up and he adjusted his butterfly tie. Under the sunset, he kneeled before me and held my hand. “There’s no one else I would rather be with, you’re so precious to me…Will you marry me, Molly-sama?” 

“Hehe…of course I will, Fennesz.”

Molly POV

“Who is this?” 

Whoa. 

All I did was writing my name in this notebook. 

It said,

Write here

When I tried to wipe away those two words with eraser, it didn’t let me so I wrote my name in the corner. 

…

I don’t even remember getting this notebook, and I’m quite fond of notebooks myself.

A cover with nice cute animal art and inner pages with great spacing? I want to get it if the price is right. 

A nice notebook with blank pages for sketching, count me in, I love those. 

But a notebook with a blue butterfly on the front cover, with nothing on the back, not even a barcode sticker, is strange, because the texture of the cover feels expensive, yet there’s no sticky residue of the price tag on the back. 

I don’t think this was a gift from someone, since I could even remember a bracelet I’ve gotten from my old friend from a decade ago.

I stared at the “Who are you?” that magically appeared on the page. 

I even touched it, it was ink. 

The wet smudge covered the tip of my index finger.

After reading numerous of media, I have concluded that this might have been a cursed notebook. 

Perhaps, haunted by a ghost that would escalate to a worst case scenario, leaving both me and my family in a looming doom. 

I do not want any misfortune bestowed upon me. 

Perhaps, it might have been a death note too, this notebook did appear out of no where, if I wrote a name down, wouldn’t that person die without a cause? 

….

Wait. 

…

I wrote my name down…! 

But…it was just my first name, that’s alright too, right? 

I placed two fingers to my neck and felt my rapid heartbeat waiting to pop out. 

Okay, good.

Maybe not a heart attack just yet. 

I immediately threw the notebook down in the recycling chute.

I prayed and hoped that the ghost wouldn’t come back and they can rest in peace. 

And I slept for the night. 

…..

The notebook came back on my table, clean and intact. 

I know I don’t have the best memory, but I clearly remembered I chuck it down the chute.

I opened the book.

My name and “Who are you?” Are still inside the page. 

A sense of nausea crept from my stomach to my throat and I pulled the pages out one by one.

It must have been because I didn’t do proper recycling, maybe the cover is not recyclable and the ghost is mad at me so it came back. 

I chuck the pages down the recycling chute and slid the cover down the garbage chute this time. 

.

.

.

Please, please, please don’t come back again. 

The second time creeped me out so much, my eyes startled at the faintest sound. 

The drops from the faucet felt like tiny feet waiting to get me. 

The creaking of the wooden frames, as if someone was attempting to break in. 

I couldn’t sleep. 

I clenched my hands together faithfully, hoping that God would protect us. 

…..

And of course, the book is back on my table. 

Clean and intact. 

Just like the first time. 

The third time should be the charm, right? 

I’ve seen it in movies where when you get rid of something cursed, you should burn it instead. 

I made sure to go to a place where it’s safe enough to operate, I don’t want to be an accidental arsonist with the blow of a wind. 

And the fire raged on as it hungrily consumed the book. 

I watched the pages squirmed in the heat as it cremated to tiny ashes.  

This time, I made sure there wasn’t any pieces left of the book. 

I held my hands together. 

“I hope that you can rest in peace and go to heaven like this.” 

And please don’t come back anymore. 

…..

The fourth time, it was like seeing your stalker back at it again. 

And I ran out of ideas. 

The book clearly wanted to stay, and it wanted me to write.

And so, I write. 

“Dear ghost, I’m not quite sure what you wanted me to write but I hope that I did not make you upset from my attempts of getting rid of the book, please do not curse my family nor bring misfortune on my family, rather, please let them be safe and healthy and away from harm and be alright and I hope you are alright too, I’m not sure if you heard me praying for you but I really wish you would rest in peace and go back to heaven, and let go of your thoughts in this world. I truly think so, and since you do not cause any harm other than making the book intact and appear over and over again, I’m not quite sure what your objective is, perhaps I just needed to fill this page up and hope that this book would disappear in some way or another, and if that’s the case, then please rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace, rest in peace-“ 

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz POV

I came across this book when I was cleaning the shelves inside our library. 

As the “librarian”, I was in charge of organizing and cleaning the books to make sure that the book is not eaten away by bugs. 

If that was the case, I would write down the contents of the book and restore them myself, as I remembered everything that I have read. 

I would also ask Flure for help, as his fingers are nimble and he always made the book with flawless sewing, you could barely see the marks. 

There, I came across a book I have never seen before. 

I asked around the butlers to make sure if this was a book they brought back or perhaps it was donated by someone, but no one had ever seen this Blue Butterfly Notebook before. 

However, when I wanted to fill this notebook for the owner, the words, “Write here”, were glowing, 

I hovered the candlelight over the book, thinking it must have been the lighting that caused the words to brighten the page, but my fingers slid past the words, as if it was floating right above the page. 

“AH-“

I fell over the chair and landed on my side. 

The pain on my shoulder spread to the side of my cheek. 

The candle sat safely on the table. 

Thankfully, I didn’t knock it over. 

I couldn’t imagine what the fire would do to the library. 

And the throbbing ache on my side confirmed that this was indeed not a dream.

I crawled back and slowly raised my head to the opened page. 

“Molly” 

Was that the ghost’s name? 

The glowing words instructed me to write back. 

Holding the feathered pen in my wavering hand, I managed to write back, “Who are you?” 

Perhaps, it was too vague, but I wish to know the truth. 

My words got smudged. 

Could it be that I have angered the entity…? 

I hope that I am dealing with the kind ghost that I have read in books…

But knowing my negative thoughts, I would spiral down towards the horror books I have read lately, and I sincerely hope that the ghost wouldn’t haunt my second floor companions which I shared a room with, nor would they cause harm to my fellow butlers. 

Should I try to get rid of the book first? 

But as a lover for books, it pained me to dispose any book, but it the book is a source that might place a curse upon my precious ones, then I shall find a way to get rid of it. 

….

Historically, when you are trying to get rid of a cursed artifact, you would burn it with fire, but I remember there was a book, 

“When you have encountered things that you thought are cursed, that you could feel the evil seeping through, or you have been placed a curse on, gather these herbal ingredients and you and your home shall be protected.”

Sage, rosemary, mint and dill can be used to ward off any evil spirits. I should throw them into the fire and sprinkle some peppermint inside the mansion too…I’m going to ask Ammon and Lono for them. 

Lavender is another that I should add to the flames. 

It felt like I was trying to summon another spirit but I hope that their souls are well rested. 

In the open ground where we usually roast the sweet potatoes during Autumn and Halloween, I lit the match after placing the dry hay and wood on top of each other. 

The fire blazed and I dropped the book right in the middle, while sprinkling sage, rosemary, mint, dill and lavender around. 

I crossed my hands together and prayed that the spirit can finally rest in peace.

…

I sprayed peppermint all over the mansion, and Lato asked if it was parsley. His magenta hair strands drenched and dripped over the hallway floor Lamli had just mopped. “Aww…it wasn’t parsley? Then, I have no interest in what you are doing.” And he ran away. 

With hurried pitter-patter footsteps following behind him, “Lato!!!! Your hair!!!!” 

Flure stretched a towel while running after Lato. 

The water drops slid from Flure’s short hair strands. 

They seemed to be in the middle of a drying session when Lato decided to wander off. 

I’ll help them dry the ground after I’m finished.

And after that, I should wash up and sleep to prepare for the work tomorrow…

My eyes felt dry from yesterday’s smoke when I woke up in the morning. 

Maybe I felt relieved after disposing the book, I fell asleep quite rapidly. 

……….

The next morning, I slid my schedule book out from the bookshelf next to my bed.

“!!!!!!!!” 

I slammed my back against the wall. 

“Fennesz??” 

“Hey, what’s with the commotion in the morning?“

“Fennesz-san, did you bump into the wall while you were reading?” 

“Ah…ah…t-t-“ 

My second floor roommates stared at me with bizarre and followed my finger to the black notebook with a blue butterfly on the cover inside my shelf. 

“What, it’s just a regular notebook.” Boschi yawned while tossing the book up and down like a ball in his hand. 

“You looked like you just saw a ghost, Fennesz, do you need some rest for today?” Haures grabbed my hand and lifted me up to a chair. 

“Right, Fennesz-san, you asked me for some herbs, but sage, rosemary, dill, mint and lavender? Something tells me that you’re exorcising something, y’know~?” Even though Ammon’s face looked at ease, but I could tell his hands were clenched behind his back. He tends to do that whenever we have a ghost story night session.

“I…I burnt this book yesterday…”

“Hah…?” “What…???” “Wait, wait, Fennesz-san, are you awake…?”

“From the pain in my back, I’m awake…you can open the book and there should be a name and my words on there…” 

Boschi turned to the first page to prove my point. “Shit, but there’s no such things as ghosts, Fennesz.” 

“Then how would it come back…why did the book come back to me…?” 

Haures placed his hand on my shoulder. “Don’t worry, Fennesz, there must have been a reason behind this…we can probably solve this together…! Wait, Ammon, where are you going?” 

“I-I’m just going to get some more herbs, just in case-“

….

Ammon prepared herbal tea to calm me down. 

“So…what’s the plan next, Fennesz-san? What do we do with this book…?” He sat in the far opposite end of the desk away from the notebook. 

“Let’s just leave it, it’s not gonna do anything other than coming back right?” Boschi muttered his suggestion. “Unless it’s going to do work for us, might as well just leave it be.” 

“But if it’s really something that’s haunted, then we should do some things to fulfil their wish, right?” Haures took a look at the smudged ink. 

“Nah, that’s too much trouble, and how do we really know it’ll come back anyways? You know how Fennesz would get tired and his body memory would slide the books back to their places, right, Fennesz?” Boschi flipped through the empty pages, normal, matte and smooth. Seemed like high quality material for an indestructible notebook. 

“B-but why would I ask for herbs from Ammon if I didn’t burn it? I-I’m sure that I did took it to the mountain behind with an opened space and then placed it in the bonfire with all the herbs…my clothes should smell faintly of smoke if Flure hasn't wash the laundry yet…” I felt like my memories are jumbled because of the swarm of anxiety but I do have clear memories of the fire and the book. 

“Then, why don’t we just go back to the mountain, Fennesz-san?” 

“Ohh, good idea, Ammon, we should just throw the book down the cliff and see if it’ll come back home.” 

“Hm…but if it didn’t come back, then we’ll be littering..” 

“Oh, stop being a goody-two-shoes, Haures.” 

And so, we hiked up the mountain and threw the book down the cliff. 

With Haures, Boschi and Ammon as my witnesses, let’s hope that the book doesn’t come back.

…..

”The hell??”

Boschi was the first one who went back into the second floor butler’s room. 

He took a glance at the bookshelf and recognize the book spine with the same black colour.

With his metal prosthetic, he slid the notebook out and dropped it on the ground, revealing the same Blue butterfly symbol.

“What’s wrong, Boschi-sa-“ Ammon froze in his steps and paused at the door. “I am not going inside.” 

“It came back??” Haures went inside the room immediately and took the book to check the name and the words written inside. “It’s the same…” 

“I…I knew it…it’s haunted…it came back for me again…no…” 

“Fennesz, breathe-“ 

“Fennesz, we believe you-“ 

“Fennesz-san, should we leave the room entirely…”

……..

After some deep breathing and some glasses of whiskey…we began to feel more relaxed around the book. 

“If it keeps coming back, why don’t you just marry it, Fennesz?” Boschi pushed the book towards me. “You are a book lover, after all…”

“I’ll make the flower arrangements, Fennesz-san, so, you can take the book far away from here…” Ammon poured a full glass of wine to move closer to us. 

“What are you guys talking about…Fennesz is not going away with the book…but I would help with the decorations…” Haures chugged down three glasses of whiskey already. 

“Nah, stay away from the decorations, Haures, you don’t want to upset the book even more-“ 

“……….I don’t want to get marry with the book…” I rested my head on my arm while placing the notebook on a seat for itself. "…But what am I going to do with it…?” 

“Hm…if it’s really a ghost, perhaps it needs a resting spot? A grave, perhaps.” Drunk Haures’s perfect score answer. 

“You are not burying the book in my holy garden-“ protested Ammon, the gardener guardian of the devil palace. 

“Where else to bury? Are you heading back into the mountain again, Fennesz?” Boschi yawned.

“Maybe…if we bury it next to Tricia, maybe Tricia can also make the ghost feel at peace…” Drunk Haures went back into his past memories. But this time he seemed more relaxed rather than sad. 

“Maybe. And we probably need a gravestone.” Boschi took out a pencil and some paper and sketched the outline. “But what about the name?” 

“Is Molly the owner or the ghost of this book?” Haures flipped to the first page. “It was the only name on there.” 

“I’m not sure…” My eyes felt heavy. “But I did asked them who are you but they didn’t answer…” 

“Then we’ll just put that name on the gravestone.”

The following morning, we went to the graveyard and scavenged for the perfect spot. 

We thought if the book contained an evil spirit, we shouldn’t put it near Tricia. 

So we decided to go to a quiet, peaceful area where the spirit can be at peace. 

The name was carved on the stone and we carried the gardening shovel in our hands and dig a small, deep hole, perfect for the book to fit. Ammon made sure to made a bed and a blanket of evil warding herbs for the book. 

We buried the notebook and all of us put our hands together in respect. 

“Please rest in peace.”

………

”WHY IS THIS HAPPENING-“

Ammon had just finished with his early gardening work. He was going to freshen up with a shower and grabbed his clean pair of clothes when he saw the familiar book at the corner of his eye. 

His suspenders, tailcoat, rose shirt and crimson pants dropped to the ground as he ran out to the library. 

“Fennesz-san-“ 

“…Ammon……” 

“I guess you already know what I’m ‘bout to say…” 

“Yeah….”

…….

“Told ya we should have left it alone.” Boschi laid on his bed, his eyes shut in peace. 

“Maybe it had some unfinished business, maybe a wish?” Haures was still jotting inside his work book, but he could spare some thoughts as his break time. 

“Whatever it is, I just want it to stop.” Ammon had already took a bath and wore his freshen clothes. “It ain’t even funny at this point.” 

“Same…I wish everything would just go away…I even saw it in my dreams…” I opened the book to see if there was any other instructions. “Name…who are you…and dear ghost….dear ghost?” 

I stared at a page filled with vengeance. 

“UWAH-“ 

I chuck the book at the wall. 

“Whoa there, Fennesz-I’m sleeping here.” 

“I know you have been stressed out about this but there’s no way to throw the book, Fennesz.”

“W-what did you say about a ghost, Fennesz-san…?” 

“A….a…t-the…”

“The?”

“The page….there’s more now…it’s mad…”

…….

“…Why is this person saying ‘Dear Ghost’ when they are the ghost who don’t rest?” I wore gloves to read through each word. 

“Maybe they don’t even know they’re dead to be begin with.” Haures hovered beside me, holding the candlelight. 

“But it says they hope we don’t harm their family, and they also wrote the book appeared for them over and over..?” That’s strange if the spirit were a ghost.  

“Then why did the person filled the entire page with rest in peace, that’s kind of a curse for the living, isn’t it-“ Ammon peeked from behind and shuddered at the suffocating knitted words written in black ink. 

“I call it as rest in peace in bed.” Boschi rolled over to face the wall and slept again.

“Come on, Boschi-san-, don’t rest just yet, we gotta solve this first!” Ammon rolled Boschi back to face us. 

“Leave me alone, Ammon, just like how we should just leave the book alone.” 

“If we don’t resolve this, the ghost is going to keep cursing us-“ 

“Then, what else did the book said to do, Fennesz?” Haures skimmed through the paragraph. “Maybe we should also try writing something like this person or ghost said. Maybe they’re not even a ghost.” 

“But what do we write…?” 

Boschi sighed and sat up. “Hand me the book, I’ll write something so that the ghost will leave ya alone. And leave us alone.” 

“Boschi-san, you probably shouldn’t write something to upset them, they’ll write a whole page on you, y’know.” Ammon stuck out his tongue and shook his head.

Hey, stop coming back. We’re not ghosts, so rest assured we won’t be harming your family, but we need you to stop coming back.

To the ghost of the book, I hope we didn’t upset ya with our attempts to get rid of this book, we didn’t know why the book keeps coming back for us too, but we don’t mean harm, we’re way far from that. We come in peace, as long as you don’t curse us.

To the owner of this book, we apologize for making you feel scared with our attempts to dispose this book. It is never our intention to make you feel terrified. As well, we are unsure why you referred us as ghosts, when we are still living beings. I would like to make a correction on that.

With our utmost respect, dear ghost, or should I refer you by the name that you have written inside the page, Ms. Molly? I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m sorry-

……..

“…Fennesz-san, why did you fill the entire page with ‘I’m sorry’?” Ammon read through the entire page to make sure nothing upsets the other party. “This is the same level as the rest in peace.” 

“I’m sorry…” 

“This should be enough for the ghost, right? Don’t wake me up.” 

“Hopefully they would write a reply back.”

“I hope they don’t-“

The next morning, we flipped the page open. It had became our routine to see if the book was still there. 

The page had a new update. 

WHAT THE HECK

Was written in capital letters.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly’s POV

The book was quiet for a few days. When I just left it in a drawer, it didn’t do anything, so I should have just kept it there. 

Maybe the ghost is finally pleased with my offering and it can leave me alone. 

I flipped open the page and noticed there were more ghost writings now. 

The last paragraph had filled the front and back pages with dark ink and I frisbeed the book away.

What the heck, what the heck, what the heck, what the heck, why wouldn’t you just leave me be-

At this point, I’m filled with rage.

Without glancing at the ink blotted pages with scribbles of cursive writings, I wrote exactly I had in mind. 

WHAT

THE

HECK

But I know I’ll have to go back to the pages just in case I missed something. I could read cursive but it’s going to take longer.

I scribbled out the “What the heck” with my pen in case the ghosts were petty and they took back on their words of not harming my family. 

“Sorry.”

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz's POV

“What…the heck…?” Ammon leaned over my shoulder and tilted his head, his strawberry gradient hair strand clung to his side profile. “That’s an awfully rude of a response?!” 

“Uh….did I wrote too little apologies…” I dipped my feather pen in the ink, attempting to add more. 

“Stop that, Fennesz.” Boschi lifted my hand, the ink blotted over the pages like tear stains. “You don’t have to apologize to them again.” 

“But…” At the corner of my eye, I saw the words scribbled out. “Huh…? They’re writing something else…?” 

Sorry 

“They’re apologizing…?” Haures scanned over the pages and noticed the lines forming more words on the pages. 

I’m still in the middle of reading your responses, I’m sorry for reacting this way. 

“M-maybe we should wait for them?”

If you’re saying you’re not ghosts…but why do you keep bringing this book back to me? 

I glanced behind me. 

“W-what do we do? Should I write back?” 

“You should.” “Maybe.” “Yeah.” 

A unison. 

“But what do I write…?” 

“Just be yourself, Fennesz.”

“Um…” 

Dear Ms. Molly,

“You’re starting with the name?”

“Y-yeah…it’s only polite to do it this way…” 

I’m sorry…I know this may seem frightening and frustrating to you, but please don’t worry, for I am experiencing the same event as well.

I’ve finished the passages…and from your handwriting and the way you apologize, I’m guessing you’re Number 4? 

“N-number 4….?” 

“Fennesz-san, I think that’s the order we wrote the message in.” 

“I see…” 

Yes…I am the fourth and the last person who wrote in this notebook. I was the one who picked up the notebook and also attempted to stop the notebook from returning as well

I see…but since you know my name, may I have yours, too? It seems impolite for me to refer you by number 

Of course, my name is-

I felt a strong pat on my arm. 

“Hey, Fennesz, should you give this person your name? What if this person’s an enemy or something?” 

“Y-you might be right, Boschi…but from their writing, I don’t think they’re someone who is malicious…” 

“Ah, Fennesz-san,” Ammon stuck out his tongue. “Bad people don’t always appear as bad, be careful not to be too trusting~” 

“T-then again, they did write their name on the notebook, so I should probably just write a name, right?” 

“How about the character you always read, Fennesz?” Haures suggested. 

My name is Luke…

Luke…it’s nice to meet you, you can just call me by Molly. 

Molly…It’s my pleasure to write to you as well.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly POV

Luke…in my head, I’m thinking that Luke Skywalker might be communicating with me, maybe that’s why he used to force to bring back the notebook for me in one piece. 

But then again, this person is also experiencing the same too, having the notebook come back every time…so maybe this isn’t a cursed book after all. 

When I think of the name, Luke, maybe they came from another part of the world than mine, it sounds like he could be part of Britain? And the people who wrote above Luke’s responses might be his roommates who also know about this strange event. 

It felt like an instant messenger app on paper format. 

I breathe out a sigh of relief. 

Maybe they aren’t evil spirits who would place a curse on generations of my family. 

But I wouldn’t drop my guard so soon. 

After all, I’m still not sure who I am communicating with…or what he is…

And Luke might even be an alias too, who knows. 

Good thing I only wrote a part of my name down, not the entire thing. 

I could probably change my name too. 

My past neighbour’s dog is even called Molly. 

And apparently, Molly is ranked as #208 in 2024, in the popularity name ranking. 

But either way, the mystery of this book is resolved and if we stopped getting rid of this book and stopped writing, we should be able to stop this completely and move on with our lives. 

Perhaps, if we stopped writing to each other, and just placed the notebook in a drawer or a shelf, we wouldn’t have to worry over this anymore, right, Luke?

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz's POV

That’s true, if we stopped writing, maybe the book wouldn’t return and everything would go back to the way it was again.

I turned towards Haures, Boschi and Ammon. “…I really owed you guys…thank you for helping me.” 

“Ah, Fennesz-san, don’t worry, we’ll ask the largest compensation~” Ammon grinned. 

“How about the best steak from the butcher?” Boschi smirked. 

“No worries, Fennesz,” Haures patted my shoulder. “We’re glad to help you.” 

“Haha…don’t worry, I’ll make sure to do that.”

I slid the notebook back into my shelf. 

Knowing that this wasn’t a curse artifact calmed my heart and I was relieved that everything ended. 

Molly…

Perhaps she also is in the same world as I do. 

And she also tried to get rid of the book, perhaps in the same way as I did. 

“Fennesz, are ya gonna come to the sauna-“

I stretched my arms to the ceiling and hurried to the sauna room. “Coming!” 

But I couldn’t help but wonder about who this person really is…

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly's POV

Even though I was the one who suggested we shouldn’t write to each other anymore, I flipped open the page and looked at the handwriting. 

Luke’s old school, I thought. 

Who would write in cursive nowadays? 

Because they don’t teach the students in school anymore…

I pictured an elderly man who was writing back to me, perhaps he was confused as to why the book would keep coming back to him. 

And how he would panic when I spammed “Rest in peace” on the pages, oh, I felt apologetic by writing that to him, it must have nearly gave him a heart attack, from the pages of apologies he wrote. 

But he seemed like a genuine person, referring me as Ms. Molly, and someone who’s empathetic to the situation. 

I also pictured a large nursing home where there were 4 elderly men huddled up to brainstorm how to get rid of the book. 

Oh, Luke. 

I wonder if I write in the book again, would I hear from him again.

Hi Luke, not sure if you’re here, and if you aren’t, I might use this book as a regular notebook, I just want to warn you in case you saw a bunch of things on here ^^ 

Maybe I’ll write out ideas for my stories. Or just doodle. The feel of this paper felt really nice to touch and perfect for writing anything. I’ll just keep Luke’s handwriting as souvenir on the page and use other pages as regular notes. 

Although, there is a voice inside me, hoping that he might read it, and maybe write back.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz's POV

I listened to the sound of air exhaling from Boschi, who was sleeping close to me. 

Haures slept early today to prepare for an early training tomorrow and Ammon was also fast asleep from doing a large garden cleaning today. 

I’m not exactly sure why I couldn’t sleep tonight. 

I finished a novel series today, I organized shelves and stocked up the bathing supplies. 

I drank water before bed, and the warm bath made me feel relaxed. 

There was this feeling in the back of my head irking me, like an unfinished book. 

When I closed my eyes, words of the notebook would float in my mind, and I wondered who “Molly” really is. 

Does she live in our world? 

How did she get this notebook? 

Does she also enjoy writing? 

She couldn’t really read cursive, so should I write more clearly? 

She’s also as confused as I am, and tried to get rid of the book too, maybe we also thought it was a cursed book. 

I felt related to her situation. 

And other than doing regular missions from nobles and angel hunts, it felt like a glow in the dark from my routine life. 

A spark of curiosity urged me to slip out of my bed and opened the notebook. 

To my surprise, there was a response from her. I immediately drew my feather pen to write back.

Good evening, Molly, or should I say, Good night, it is nighttime in my area, so I apologize for writing so late. And it would be fine if you write in this notebook, I wouldn’t mind.

My heart thumped rapidly. 

I wasn’t sure if she would write back again.

But at least maybe I would be able to read what she write in this notebook usually if I didn’t get a response.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Molly's POV

“Hm…? He’s not asleep yet, and it’s nighttime for him…?” I tapped my phone to reveal it was around 11pm. Maybe we have similar time zones. 

Good evening, Luke, it is 11pm in my area, and I probably should head to sleep, but I couldn’t. I’m grateful that you wrote back to me and confirmed that I could write in this notebook. 

I wonder if my language sounds too formal like a business email, but maybe it’s alright for him.

︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶︶⊹︶︶୨୧︶︶⊹︶

Fennesz's POV

I flipped my pocket watch over the dimmed candle light.  

The long hand had reached 12 and the short hand shifted to 11. It was the same time as well. 

I see, perhaps we share the same time too. I too, am at 11pm.

You too? Do you live in North America by any chance?

North America…?

In the history books I’ve read, I never came across a name as “North America”. 

Or are you from Asia, Europe, Africa, South America, or Australia? 

Asia, Europe, Africa, South America, Australia…? I have never heard of it, I came from Central Land.

Central Land…? What place is that…?

Central Land is located in the heart, or should I say, in the middle of the Lands. I can draw a map for you.

I quickly sketched the map and placed an X over the place I’m currently at. 

Which place do you came from? 

??? 

Perhaps, Molly is confused with the geographical details. 

I don’t think we live in the same place. 

I think so too, never in the books I read have came across as “North America".

Mine too, I never heard of Central Land…

But we do have the same time…?

Or maybe the dates are different too…today is June 8, 2026 for me, what about you? 

2026…??

Perhaps, this is a book from the future? 

It wouldn’t be a surprise, considered we have angels and witches in our world, that would explain the indestructible nature of this notebook. 

Yeah, 2026, time flies so fast. How about you, Luke? 

I live in the Victorian era…

Victorian era…?? Like 124 years ago??? 

I believe so…

T-that’s so ancient… 

I felt a sting in my heart. I have been living for a long time…

I apologize, I didn’t mean it that way. 

No apologies needed…from the years in between, I know I am…haha…

In my head, I did picture you as an elderly man, but I didn’t know we have a large gap in between… 

Ah…but I am currently 28.

I hid the fact that I have been 28 for 300 years. 

You’re 28? Me too!

You are…?

That’s why I felt related to her, we share the same age range too. 

Yeah! That’s a relief, I thought I was going to refer you by Mr. Luke, so I had to confess that I thought you were an elderly man, haha! 

I…also have a confession I would like to make.

Yes? 

My name isn’t actually Luke…Luke was my favourite character from a novel, but my name is actually Fennesz…Fennesz, Oswald.

aknk translators

@akuneko-devilbutlerwithablackcat - unofficial en acc (lots of info)

@akunekoring - (has discord & wiki link) healing voice, info

@zelk0va -event & main story, info, memories

@shisekibo -mainstory

@nagisapinkprincess - aknk stage, aknk exhibition

@kwakwasstuff -main, event, card stories & memories

@nuljka -card stories, voice drama

@chillsrain0008 - mainstory

@real-akaridayo - card stories

@midnightparsley - recipes, trivia, mainstory, stage plays, cardstory, home interactions, mansion exploration, log in story, voice drama & collection, omoide

@pardi-real - voice drama, omoide, card & event story

@akunekoblog - main & butler stories

@kotegiris - main & card story

@rachaelzgame - card stories, event stories, has masterlist of cards from other creators

@ladydollsstuff - card stories

@starsonwalls - voicedramas

@a-konakanalee - events, log ins, card stories

@mikio4569 - card stories

@dutifullyenchantingsong - card stories

@maiko-36 -oc, card stories

@cheeh0w0 - card stories

@4ltrd - translations

@kamidukki - commentaries, summary

@yogurtflureblu - card stories, theories

@midoribobatea - card stories

@akunekosiblingism - NOW translations

@im-peech -art, card and event stories

@khrvienn - trivia

@Userlofyy - cards, memories, Q&A

@hamikau -card & event stories, memories

@oqwomyo - card translations & fic

@dyscanthe - event, butler story, trivia, art

@fenneszarchives - memories

aknk artists

@hotaruchoucho - fics, his, guides

@fenokimenokimushroom - 18+ fics, hc (thank u for feeding the fandom 🤭)

@elimefia

@seishiin-ryu -yume, has masterlist of the mainstory

@captaincalian - art & memes

@popstarqueen

@berrienenjoyer - memes

@kinaco-calcium

@teddysplushie

@xienlin - fics

@cysf

@okamihanchoi

@hanatandao

@chanothy - fics

@doesnot-really-exist

@lamlibeloved

@seraphirism - clear card pictures

@sugar-glaze-donut - fics, hcs

@marie-aknk

@berrienn - fics

@soosy-dot-io - art

@mailoveforu -art &fic

@solstravels - art

@in---aaa -art

@lena-nowitree - art

@berrienn -fics

A mischievous butler [Initial Story]

A flower for you [Initial Story]

A cunning butler [Initial Story]

A beautiful flower ornament [The Black Tea Party]

An eternal rose that never withers [Butler’s valentine]

I want to make your heart race [Butler’s wedding]

In a secret sea [Butler’s summer]

An unexpected side [EP.2 - The Butlers’ Bond -]

A wolf’s mischief [Butler’s halloween]

A rose in the dark night [Butler’s christmas ]

A clumsy man [1st Anniversary – The Butlers’ Prayer -]

An umbrella in the snow [Butler's New Year]

A special bouquet [Rose valentine]

Keep your eyes only on me [Wings of frill]

The flower language of two [Birthday 2023]

Live happily [Honeymoon knight]

Scarred red [Palace of rose]

Red and sweet [Large blossoms on the festival night]

A reward from the king [Butler in Wonderland]

Time alone for two [Ice Castle in the Melting Snow]

The one and only whip user [Xmas Circus of Black Cats]

A vague presence [2nd Anniversary -Tarot of Destiny-]

A pair of red flowers [Wine valentine]

Writing a letter on someone’s behalf [The Postman’s Gift]

Try being a little honest [Birthday 2024]

The meaning of the morning glory [The Morning Glory of Memories]

A bouquet for lovers [Butler’s wedding party]

A comfortable warmth [The Lake that Vanished in the Desert]

At that time, in that garden [3rd Anniversary - The Mark of Glory -]

You, who are confused [Valentine's Day with the Butler]

The secret meaning of flowers [Birthday 2025]

Hiding the pain [The Butler’s Beloved Flower Garden]

Eyes that confess their feelings [Butlers on the Wedding island]

The red eyes speak [The Butlers, the Training Camp, and the Vacation]

A flower that blooms in secret [The Engraved Bond of the Dragon]

Hiding its sweet and sour taste [Butlers’ Dinner Show - The Second Act -]

Seeking salvation in pain [4th Anniversary -The Light Found in Despair-]

Something special for you [The Idol Butler's Valentine]

Catch Happiness [Birthday 2026]

You:

Thank you

Muu:

Ammon-san, what did you come to buy today?

Ammon:

Nah, it’s not like I came to buy anything in particular.

Muu:

Eh!? Really? Then why did you invite Master out shopping?

Ammon:

If Master stays cooped up in the mansion all the time, they’ll probably get bored, right? I just thought walking around town for a bit might help refresh Master’ mood…

So with that said, Master, today let’s forget all our usual worries and have some fun. If there’s anything you like, let’s buy it and take it home!

Muu:

Hehe. I wonder which sweets I should get. Ah, that cupcake shop over there! Those cakes look delicious!

They’re only 10 zeny each too! Such a good price! I want one of those!

Ammon:

Ah, but don’t get the wrong idea. Muu, you’re paying with your own money, y’know?

Muu:

Eh!? You weren’t planning to buy it for me!?

Ammon:

Why would I spend my money treating Muu? I don’t intend to waste even a single zeny. And treating other people? No thanks.

Muu:

T-That’s so mean…

Ammon:

Well, of course Master is an exception. Because they’re Master. If there’s anything you want to eat, just say the word.

Choices:

Thank you

Sorry, Muu

Muu:

Ugh… You could at least treat me to something that’s only 10 zeny.

Ammon-san, you cheapskate…

Ammon:

Call me cheap all you want. The world isn’t sweet enough that people will just buy you things because you ask. Besides, people who laugh at 10 zeny will cry over 10 zeny someday.

No matter how little it is, money should always be valued properly. Got it?

Muu:

Uuugh… understood…

Ammon:

Alright then, let’s put that aside and get on with shopping…

???:

Um…

You:

Hm?

Turning toward the voice, there stood a young boy. Inside the small basket he carried were flowers of many different colors.

???:

Um, would you like to buy some flowers? I have lots of beautiful flowers.

Please, could you buy one?

You:

Uh…

Muu:

Who is this kid…?

Ammon:

Ahh. A traveling flower vendor, huh.

Flower-selling Boy:

Please buy some flowers. I’m begging you.

Choices:

Umm…

I don’t have any money with me right now…

Ammon:

Master, leave this to me. Hey kid, how much is one flower?

Flower-selling Boy:

10 zeny.

Ammon:

10 zeny, got it. Then I’ll take one.

Flower-selling Boy:

T-Thank you very much!

Ammon:

Mmm~! This rose has a pretty nice scent.

Muu:

Eh!? Ammon-san, you actually bought one!?

Ammon:

Hm? Is that a problem?

Muu:

Well, I mean… Those flowers grow in the mansion garden too, don’t they?

There’s no need to buy them, right?

Ammon:

Well, that’s true, but… Seeing this kid kinda brought back memories.

Choices:

Memories?

What do you mean?

Ammon:

I’ve never told you this before, Master, but… When I was a kid, I worked at a flower shop. Though that was a very long time ago…

…

Ammon:

I was born the son of a florist. My only family was Mother.

Apparently my father died from an epidemic before I was even born.

Without anyone’s help…

Mother raised me while running the flower shop all on her own. She was a very strong woman. And also a very strict one.

- When Ammon was a child -

Young Ammon:

I’m home! Mother!

Ammon’s Mother:

Ammon. Sit down over there for a moment.

Young Ammon:

Y-Yes.

Ammon’s Mother:

Ammon, what were you doing today?

Young Ammon:

I-I was selling flowers like you told me to…

Smack…!

Young Ammon:

Ow…

Ammon’s Mother:

Don’t lie to me! You were playing with the neighborhood children, weren’t you? I know everything!

Young Ammon:

S-Sorry…! They invited me, so I just…

Smack…!

Young Ammon:

That hurts…!

Ammon’s Mother:

You don’t have time to waste playing around! What you need to be doing right now… 

is learning how to survive on your own! Why can’t you follow my instructions? Why can’t you do as I say!?

Young Ammon:

Uu… uugh… I’m sorry… I’m sorry…

Ammon:

Ever since I was little… I worked selling flowers because Mother told me to. Mother was a very serious person… Whenever I slacked off or disobeyed her, she’d get furious. But even so, I still loved her dearly.

Because whenever I worked hard and got results… Mother would smile and praise me.

- One day -

Young Ammon:

I’m home, Mother!

Ammon’s Mother:

Ammon, how were today’s sales?

Young Ammon:

Mother! I sold everything! That makes three straight days of selling out! Amazing, right?

Ammon’s Mother:

Yes, that’s wonderful, Ammon! You worked very hard.

Young Ammon:

Hehehe.

Ammon’s Mother:

I’d like to give you some kind of reward, but…

Young Ammon:

I don’t need a reward. We need to save this money for living expenses!

Ammon’s Mother:

Ammon…

Young Ammon:

Just like you said, Mother, working hard feels really good! It feels like I’m doing something worthwhile! I’m gonna work even harder! I’ll become a proper adult soon and make life easier for you, Mother!

Ammon’s Mother:

Ammon… ugh… ugh…

Young Ammon:

Mother? Why are you crying?

Ammon’s Mother:

I’m sorry… I’m so sorry, Ammon…

Young Ammon:

Mother?

Ammon:

Back then, I didn’t understand why Mother cried. But being praised by her only made me want to work even harder. After that, day after day, I kept selling flowers. “If I work honestly, Mother will smile.” “Someday, I’ll give Mother a comfortable life.” Holding onto those hopes, I kept doing my best. But…

No matter how many years passed, our lives never became richer. Every single day… I kept selling more flowers than I could count… And then one day… A tragedy struck our family.

Chapter 2

Ammon:

No matter how many years passed, my life with Mother never became prosperous. “Even though both Mother and I are trying so hard…” “Why do we keep living such a painful life…?” Even as a child… I thought about that every single day. And then, one day… A tragedy struck our family.

Crash…!

Ammon:

Eh? What was that sound?

When I turned toward it, Mother had collapsed.

Ammon:

Mother!! Mother!!

Ammon:

It was a freezing snowy day. Mother had fallen seriously ill and could no longer continue working.

Ammon’s Mother:

Cough cough…!

Ammon:

Are you okay, Mother?

Ammon’s Mother:

Yes… I’m fine… Don’t worry about me… Cough cough…!

Ammon:

Mother…

Ammon’s Mother:

Ammon… I’m sorry… for being such a burden to you…

Ammon:

Don’t say that! I’ll earn more money by selling flowers. Please wait for me, Mother.

Ammon’s Mother:

I’m sorry… Ammon…

Ammon:

Flowers~! Flowers for sale~! They don’t wilt easily, perfect for decorating your room! 10 Zeny each! Please take a look~!

Ammon:

(I will definitely cure Mother’s illness… For that, I need to earn more…)

Ammon:

Excuse me, sir. Would you like some flowers? They’re perfect as a gift to show appreciation to someone important! Oh, miss! Would you like some flowers?

Ammon:

(More… I need more… I need more people to buy them…!)

Ammon:

Flowers! Flowers for sale!

Noble-looking man:

You there, flower seller…

Ammon:

Yes!

Noble-looking man:

Will you sell me your flowers?

Ammon:

Thank you very much! How many would you like?

Noble-looking man:

I’ll take all the flowers you have.

Ammon:

Eh!? All of them? Really?

Noble-looking man:

Yes… I’ll buy them all.

Ammon:

Th-thank you very much!

(This is amazing!! I got lucky! To think I could sell everything at once…!)

(Hard work really does pay off…!)

Noble-looking man:

Then, here is your payment…

Ammon:

Thank you very much! I’ll wrap them right away!

Noble-looking man:

No need to wrap them.

Ammon:

Eh… What do you mean?

Noble-looking man:

I was just eating at a nearby restaurant. And your shouting was so loud… it was extremely unpleasant.

Ammon:

Eh… um…

Noble-looking man:

As long as you get your money, that’s enough for you, right? So I’ll buy your flowers… but in exchange, stop doing business around here. Understood?

Ammon:

…I’m sorry.

Noble-looking man:

Ah yes, and those flowers I bought, dispose of them however you like.

Throw them away or give them to someone. I don’t care.

Ammon:

That’s…! That would be wrong! I can’t just take money like that!

Noble-looking man:

You really are an annoying brat. Fine then. I’ll give you all the money as well.

Ammon:

Eh!? S-so much money…

Noble-looking man:

It’s nothing to me. You’re satisfied now, right? Now leave.

Ammon:

…I see…

The man who bought my flowers was a noble.

Ammon:

This much money… I’ve never seen anything like it… With this, I could eat full meals for days. To a noble, this is nothing… I should feel happy… but instead, I feel a strange emptiness rising inside me…

Everything I’ve worked so hard for… What… was it all for…?

Chapter 3

Ammon:

After receiving a large sum of money from that nobleman… to be honest, I was happy inside. But to him, money… and even the beautiful flowers I had raised with Mother… were all “worthless.” My chest filled with frustration and emptiness. No matter how seriously I sold flowers…

there was no way I could improve our lives. It’s not like I didn’t realize that. I just didn’t want to accept it. I didn’t want to doubt Mother’s words.

But… That day I met the nobleman… something inside me changed.

Ammon:

If I just keep selling flowers, nothing will ever change… Curing Mother’s illness will always stay a dream… An idiot can’t protect anyone important.

I have to change… honesty alone isn’t enough. If I want to earn efficiently… I have to deceive others… Mother… I’ll do anything to save you.

Ammon:

After that, I stopped focusing on flower selling… and started doing shady business. I worked as an underground information broker, sold stolen goods… I did whatever was dangerous, as long as it brought money. But strangely, I didn’t feel guilty. Because everything I did was for my only family…

“I want to cure Mother’s illness…” “I want to give Mother a better life…”

“I want to make Mother happy…” “For that… I’ll become a villain if I have to…” The honest, pure version of me… changed at that moment.

- Present -

Ammon:

……

Muu:

Ammon-san?

Ammon:

…Eh?

Muu:

Is something wrong? You’ve been spacing out for a while…

Ammon:

It’s nothing. Just thinking about something, that’s all.

Flower-selling boy:

Hey! Big brother! Can you buy the rest of my flowers too?

Ammon:

Oh? Quite the ambitious little merchant we’ve got here. So it was 10 Zeny per flower, right? Hmm… If you sell them to me for 5 Zeny each, I’ll buy them all.

Flower-selling boy:

Eh!? Th-that’s a bit…

Muu:

Ammon-san, that’s kind of harsh on a child!

Ammon:

What are you saying, Muu? Business doesn’t care whether you’re a child or an adult. This world is survival of the fittest. If you think children get special treatment, you’re mistaken. Now then, little flower seller. What will you do? I’ll buy everything… if you sell at half price.

Flower-selling boy:

………

You:

(Is Ammon testing him?)

Flower-selling boy:

No… I’m a flower seller. Then what I should do is… B-big brother! Don’t underestimate me just because I’m a child! I can’t sell at half price!

Ammon:

Then I won’t buy them.

Flower-selling boy:

These flowers were carefully grown by my father. Even 10 Zeny is cheap… But I’ll sell them to you for 8 Zeny! How about that!?

Ammon:

Hmm, still expensive. I won’t buy it unless it’s around 6 Zeny.

Flower-selling boy:

Tch…! Then 7 Zeny? I… I can’t go any lower!

Ammon:

Heh… your eyes are becoming those of a real merchant.

Flower-selling boy:

Eh?

Ammon:

I’ll tell you one thing. To survive in this world, you need to be clever.

Being honest and working hard alone means nothing if it doesn’t produce results. Always think with your own head about how to earn more money.

Got it?

Flower-selling boy:

Big brother… Yeah. Thank you.

Ammon:

Alright then, I’ll take everything for 7 Zeny per piece. Here, is this the right amount?

Flower-selling boy:

Thank you very much! I’ll get the flowers ready…

Ammon:

Still… These roses are beautiful. The scent is great too. Honestly, they’re worth more than 10 Zeny.

Flower-selling boy:

Hehe.

Ammon:

Right! Let’s decorate Master’s room with these flowers.

You:

Thank you

Flower-selling boy:

Um… big brother! Wait a moment…

Muu:

Hm? What is it?

Flower-selling boy:

Isn’t this too much money? No… it might even be more than 10 Zeny per flower…! Big brother, this is…

Ammon:

Think of it as my service. Go home early and eat a nice meal with your family.

Flower-selling boy:

Big brother… Thank you…!!

Ammon:

I’m only doing this kind of service once. Next time, I’ll really make you lower the price, okay?

Flower-selling boy:

Yeah…!

Tap tap…

Ammon:

He’s gone.

You:

Ammon, you’re kind

Ammon:

I didn’t do it for him. If anything… It was for myself. He just reminded me of my past. If someone had talked to me like that back then…

Maybe… things wouldn’t have turned out the way they did…

Muu:

Snore… snore…

You:

I’ll go get some water

[Devil’s Palace Kitchen]

- A few minutes later -

Gulp gulp…

You:

The mansion is really quiet at night…

Rustle rustle…

Choices:

Uwah…!

Something moved outside the window!?

Rustle rustle…

Choices:

Could it be… an angel?

Could it be… a thief?

[Devil’s Palace Garden]

Step… step… step…

You:

I should check just in case

Rustle…

Choices:

I heard something move again…

Who’s there?

Ammon:

Uwah!!

You:

Ammon?

Ammon:

Haa… so it’s just Master. Geez, you scared me. Don’t sneak up on me like that. Seriously, that’s bad for my heart…

You:

I wasn’t trying to scare you…

Ammon:

It’s the middle of the night, you know? What are you doing out here?

You:

I couldn’t sleep…

Ammon:

I see. So that’s what it was.

Choices:

What about you, Ammon?

What are you doing out here?

Ammon:

Me? I came to check on the flowers in the garden.

You:

At this hour?

Ammon:

Well actually… I’m growing a rare flower here that only blooms at night. I came to see it bloom tonight.

Choices:

You really do love flowers

A flower that only blooms at night?

Ammon:

Yeah. Since we’re here, Master, would you like to see it too? Come this way.

Step… step… step…

Ammon:

The flower bed is just a little farther ahead. Master, it’s dark, so watch your step.

You:

Thank you

Ammon:

Haa… Honestly, I feel really relieved right now.

You:

Why?

Ammon:

Come to think of it, have I ever told you this before, Master? …Well, maybe I forgot. But actually… I’m not good with dark places.

To be honest, I hate going outside at night… But tonight I really wanted to see the flowers bloom…

You:

Why didn’t you ask someone to come with you?

Ammon:

There’s no way I could ask that. It’s honestly embarrassing…

Unless it’s a real emergency, I’d never ask someone to come with me. I’m not a little kid…

You:

A man’s pride?

Ammon:

That’s just how it is. Well, anyway… 

Before I ran into you earlier, my heart was pounding like crazy. But now that you’re here, I feel relieved.

You:

That’s kind of unexpected

Ammon:

Master…

Please don’t tell anyone that I’m scared of the dark, okay? If you do… be prepared.

Choices:

Alright

I’ll keep quiet

Ammon:

…Maybe I shouldn’t have told you after all. Having someone know your weakness makes me nervous. Ah! While we were talking, we finally reached the place where I planted the flowers! Look, this one right here.

There was a plant covered in flower buds.

Choices:

But it hasn’t bloomed…

It still looks like a bud…

Ammon:

Don’t worry. It’s about to bloom. The moonlight is about to disappear…

Look, Master! Watch the flowers!

Then, countless buds began blooming one after another into beautiful flowers. The flowers sparkled softly within the darkness.

Choices:

Beautiful…

It really bloomed at night…

Ammon:

This flower… Only blooms on the night of a new moon, when the moonlight is at its weakest.

You:

A new moon night…?

Ammon:

Yeah. Even though it’s such a beautiful flower… It blooms in the darkness where no one sees it… It’s such a brave and fleeting flower…

You:

Yeah…

Ammon:

When I learned about this flower… I started thinking… The beauty of blooming quietly without anyone recognizing it… It reminded me of you, Master.

You:

Eh?

Ammon:

Because you’re the one who gives us the power to fight angels… And since you arrived, we’ve protected so many people from them. But us Demon Butlers are never praised by anyone. And you, Master, as our leader… People insult you the same way. But even so, you still stay by our side and keep trying your best… That’s why this flower reminds me of you…

You:

Ammon…

Ammon:

Before I met you… I only thought of this as some rare flower. And since it only blooms at night… I never even considered growing it. But after spending time with you… After seeing the way you live…

I wanted to try growing it.

Choices:

I’m happy you think that way

Thank you

Ammon:

Well then…

Ammon gently picked one of the beautifully blooming flowers.

Choices:

Is it okay to pick it?

Isn’t it a rare flower?

Ammon:

This flower only blooms at night. By morning, it withers away.

So it’s fine. If it’s going to wilt anyway… I’d rather admire it a little longer. And besides…

It has a really wonderful fragrance. If you place it near your pillow, you should sleep well. Now then, Master. Let’s head back to your room.

[Devil’s Palace Your Room]

Ammon:

Put the flowers in a vase… And there, all done.

Choices:

Beautiful…

Thank you

Ammon:

Not at all. Now then, Master… Please get into bed. I hope you have pleasant dreams. Goodnight, Master.

Ammon:

Hmm hm hmmm~♪

You:

(That voice is…)

Ammon:

Hm? Is someone there?

Rustle rustle

Ammon:

Oh, it’s Master. Good afternoon.

You:

Good afternoon, Ammon

Ammon:

Out for a walk? Then please, take your time exploring the garden. The roses I raised are blooming especially beautifully today.

You:

It really is a beautiful garden

Ammon:

Hehe. This scenery is my pride. But to keep it looking this beautiful…

a lot of unseen effort goes into it behind the scenes. Watering, replacing the soil, pulling weeds… And pruning the parts people can’t see is important too.

You:

So that’s why you were behind the bushes…?

Ammon:

Exactly. Big effort creates small differences.

…Though, that kind of line doesn’t really sound like me, does it?

You:

Why not?

Ammon:

“Hard work is important” sounds more like something a serious butler would say. I used to live by the philosophy of… how to slack off as efficiently as possible. Doing the bare minimum without getting caught, then being praised for the results… I was the type who found satisfaction in that.

Ammon:

Though… That was before I met you, Master. Now, when I work seriously and get praised by you like this… It brings a completely different kind of happiness. I never knew I could be such a sincere person… Not until I met you.

Ammon:

Ahh… I always thought I was pretty good at making other people work for me, too. But it seems you’re even better at it than I am, Master. You’re quite impressive yourself.

You:

That’s not what I’m trying to do…

Ammon:

Hehe, I know. That’s exactly why I can’t beat you. But I don’t mind! Working up a sweat for your sake doesn’t bother me at all. Although…

I do want a reward.

You:

A reward…?

Ammon:

Exactly. You’ve spent enough time with me by now… surely you know what reward I want?

You:

I-I’m not sure…

Ammon:

Playing dumb won’t work. There’s only one thing I want…

…To stay by your side from now on, too.

Ammon:

Hehe… what do you think? I’m pretty serious, aren’t I? When it comes to you, Master, I’m always serious. So… I’ll stay by your side from now on too.

Ammon:

Because then… I’ll always be able to offer you roses this beautiful. Ah, don’t worry. This rose has properly…

You:

Had its thorns removed?

Ammon:

Exactly right. You really do understand me well now, Master. Hehe…

When I first came to the mansion, I think I was a lot sharper around the edges… But now I’ve completely softened… And I can devote myself to you anytime.

You:

Ammon…

Ammon:

So Master… You never need to hesitate to accept me. As long as I’m by your side… I won’t let anyone hurt you.

You:

What’s wrong, Muu?

Muu:

No, just seeing such an unusual pair together made me curious…

You:

An unusual pair?

Lamli:

Hey, Rose-kun! We’ve gotta hide quickly or Hau-san is going to come! Maybe it would’ve been safer to hide in the attic after all?

Ammon:

No, no if we hid in the attic we’d get found immediately! You really shouldn’t underestimate Haures-san’s sharp instincts. Anyway, hurry up and hide!

Choices:

Ammon? Lamli?

What are you two doing?

Ammon:

Wah! Oh, it’s you, Master. Good, I thought Haures-san had found us…

Lamli:

Oh, it’s Master~! Hello… Mmph…!

Ammon:

Shh! Lamli, you’re too loud! If you shout like that, Haures-san is going to find our location!

Lamli:

I see, I see. Ahaha! I just get so happy when I meet Master.

Ammon:

Honestly “I just got happy” is not the point here. Do you even understand the situation right now?

You:

Are you hiding from Haures?

Lamli:

That’s right, Master. We’re currently in the middle of running away from Hau-san.

Muu:

Did you do something bad to Haures-san?

Ammon:

Well that’s…

Haures:

Hey Ammon, Lamli. So you were here after all.

Lamli:

Hau-san!?

Ammon:

W-we’ve been found!

Haures:

Today, you’re going to properly join training. Understood?

Ammon:

Ugh.

You:

Training?

Haures:

Master, I see you were here. Training is something like practice for hunting angels. For us Demon Butlers, hunting angels is an important duty, so we must properly build our strength.

Muu:

I see. So that’s what this training is for! Hm? In that case… were Ammon-san and Lamli-san running away from that training?

Ammon:

Yeah. That's about it.

You:

Why would you run away in the first place…

Lamli:

The reason for running away is obvious, isn’t it? Because it’s a pain.

Muu:

Eh? Lamli-san, is it really okay to say something like that?

Lamli:

Hau-san’s training is… just boring, super tough muscle training all the time. I get that the basics are important… but doing only that gets kind of boring, you know… In one word, it’s just not fun! Ahaha!

Haures:

I see… “a pain” and “not fun,” huh.

Ammon:

N-no, Haures-san! I don’t think that that strongly about it! Please, just lecture Lamli!

Lamli:

Eh~? Rose-kun, you said the same thing the other day too~ didn’t you? You said steady muscle training is “seriously a pain”… didn’t you?

Ammon:

Huh!? H-hey, Lamli!

Chapter 2

[Devil’s Palace Garden]

Lamli:

Eh~? Rose-kun, you said the same thing the other day too~ didn’t you?

You said steady muscle training is “seriously a pain”… didn’t you?

Ammon:

Huh!? H-hey, Lamli! I-I didn’t say it that strongly! I only said that steady muscle training is “hard to get motivated for”…

You:

They both seem the same to me...

Haures:

Sigh… Enough. Calm down. Do not let Master hear any more unsightly conversation than this.

Ammon:

Ugh…

Lamli:

Master, I’m sorry.

Haures:

You two are always like this… How am I supposed to guide these two who lack any motivation… Sigh…

Lucas:

Fufu. That’s quite a big sigh you’re letting out, Haures-kun.

Muu:

Lucas-san!

Lucas:

Master. Good afternoon.

Choices:

Good afternoon

Lucas!

Haures:

Lucas-san, why are you here?

Lucas:

I had just returned to the mansion, and I happened to hear Lamli-kun’s voice. I got curious about what you were doing, so I came to take a look.

Lamli:

Welcome back, Lucas-sama!

Lucas:

I’m back. Are you working hard on your training?

Lamli:

I was just about to start doing my best!

Lucas:

I see, that’s fine then. But you shouldn’t trouble Haures-kun too much.

Lamli:

Yes, Lucas-sama!

Muu:

Your attitude is completely different from earlier…

Ammon:

It’s the usual, so it’s better not to worry about it.

Lucas:

Haures-kun. Is today’s training going to be held in the garden as usual?

Haures:

Yes… more or less.

Lucas:

Then Lamli-kun and Ammon-kun, could you go ahead first? I have something important I’d like to discuss with Master and Haures-kun.

Lamli:

Understood…

Ammon:

…

Lucas:

Now then… it seems Ammon-kun and Lamli-kun have gone ahead.

Haures:

So, Lucas-san. What is this important talk with me and Master…?

Lucas:

Yes… Haures-kun… you’re troubled about how to motivate Ammon-kun and Lamli-kun, aren’t you?

Haures:

Y-yes…

Lucas:

For clever, sly types like those two… being strict with them doesn’t really produce good results. They have a strong sense of self, after all. They don’t easily get swayed by other people’s opinions.

Haures:

That… is certainly true…

Lucas:

You’ve been doing your best, Haures-kun… So it’s a bit hard for me to say this.

Haures:

No, thank you for the advice.

Muu:

Then what should we do?

Lucas:

Fufu… We just need to make them want to do it themselves.

You:

Make them want to do it…?

Lucas:

Yes. From now on, when you interact with Ammon-kun and Lamli-kun…

In any case, make sure to say things like “Amazing!” or “Thank you!” to them.

Muu:

Eh… is that all?

Lucas:

Fufu. Just try it, even if you think it’s a trick.

Muu:

Y-yes…

Chapter 3

- A few weeks later -

We did exactly as Lucas told us… and kept praising Ammon at every opportunity.

[Central Land Espoir]

Angel:

“Die… for the sake of life…”

Townsperson:

P-please help me!

Dash dash dash…

Muu:

Ammon-san! There’s an angel over there!

Ammon:

I know! Master. Please release my demon power! 

Slash!

Angel:

“D-die… f-for the sake of li… life…”

“…”

Ammon:

Phew… That wraps up today’s angel hunt.

Child:

Papa!!

Townsperson:

Ah, it’s alright now. Papa is safe.

Child:

Thank you, Demon Butler big brother…! For saving Papa…!

Ammon:

Huh? Well, I just did my job, that’s all.

Child:

Thank you, thank you so so much!

Ammon:

Ugh… It’s not like I did anything that deserves that much thanks. Hey! It’s dangerous, so go home quickly. An angel might show up again, you know.

Child:

Okay!

Townsperson:

Thank you.

Tap… tap… tap…

Muu:

Master…! It’s here! Now’s the time!  Just like Lucas-san said… let’s tell Ammon-san words of praise and gratitude!

Choices:

Yeah

Right, “amazing” and “thank you”!

Muu:

Ammon-san…!

Ammon:

Oh, Muu. As you can see, the angel hunt is finished.

Muu:

Ammon-san! As expected of you! To defeat an angel this quickly…!

Ammon:

This much is nothing special, really.

Muu:

Hehe. Ammon-san saved the town again! In just the past few days, you’ve saved people in town six times! Ammon-san, you’re amazing!

Ammon:

Geez, you’re overpraising me…

Choices:

Thank you! Ammon!

You’re amazing! Ammon!

Ammon:

Even Master… 

Even if you praise me like that, you won’t get anything out of it. 

Muu:

Come to think of it, Ammon-san, aren’t you getting stronger and stronger? Your movements are smoother than before, and I feel like your stamina has improved too…

Ammon:

So you noticed, huh? Actually, I’ve been putting in more effort into training lately~. It’s kind of started to feel fun getting stronger.

Choices:

(Ammon is actually motivated…!)

(Wow! It’s exactly as Lucas intended)

- A few minutes later -

Muu:

Master, Master…! Did you hear what Ammon-san just said?

Choices:

I heard he has been working hard on his training

He seemed really motivated, didn’t he?

Muu:

Yes! It turned out exactly as Lucas-san said it would! “By saving townspeople during angel hunts… and receiving gratitude and praise…”

“Ammon-san’s desire for recognition gets stimulated, and motivation gradually starts to rise.”

It was worth it for both of us to keep praising and thanking him, Master! At this rate, let’s keep praising Ammon-san even more!

Choices:

That’s right

Yeah!

Ammon:

You don’t need to do that anymore, Master.

Muu:

Wah! Ammon-san! W-when did you get here…! Wait, did you hear everything we just said?!

Ammon:

Yeah, I heard the whole thing.

Muu:

Ehh!! Um, it’s not like that, Ammon-san! We just wanted you to feel motivated, that’s all…!

Ammon:

It’s fine, no need to explain. I knew everything from the start.

Choices:

Eh…?

From the beginning…?

Ammon:

Lucas-san’s intentions… and the fact that you were all trying to get me motivated… I understood everything, and I just acted like I didn’t know.

Muu:

R-really!?

Ammon:

No, no… Honestly, with praise that obvious, it would’ve been strange not to notice.

Muu:

W-well… But! If you noticed, then why didn’t you say anything?

Ammon:

Well, obviously… So I could make the most of the situation, of course.

Choices:

Make the most… of the situation…? 

What do you mean by that…?

Ammon:

As long as I act like I’m getting motivated… That strict Haures-san stopped nagging me about things… Man~ Thanks to that, I’ve had it pretty easy lately.

Muu:

N-no way… I thought we were the ones controlling Ammon-san… So we were the ones being cleverly used by Ammon-san…

Choices:

As expected of Ammon…

S-sly…

Ammon:

Hehe… If you thought you could control me that easily, that’s pretty naive. I’m a bad man, after all… You should keep that in mind too, Master.

Choices:

Yeah, it is

Muu is energetic as always today

Muu:

Oh? Is that over there…?

Ammon:

Hmmhmm♪

Muu:

That’s Ammon-san, isn’t it? Maybe he’s in the middle of work?

You:

If I remember right, Ammon was assigned to garden maintenance, wasn’t he?

Muu:

Yes! That’s right! 

Ammon:

Oh? Isn’t that Master and Muu? What are you two doing? 

Muu:

It’s such nice weather, so I’m taking a walk with Master!

Ammon:

A walk, huh? Sounds nice~ Yeah, the weather really is great today.

Muu:

Ammon-san, are you working?

Ammon:

Yep~ I was just watering the flowers in the garden.

Muu:

Don’t tell me you’re watering all the flowers in this huge garden?

Ammon:

Well, of course.

Muu:

T-that sounds like a lot of work.

Ammon:

Well, yeah, it does take time… But the flowers are living things too, you know. If they wither away, that’d be pretty sad, wouldn’t it?

You:

You really do love flowers, huh

Ammon:

Yeah. The flowers in this garden are as precious to me as family!

Muu:

Family?

Ammon:

How should I put it… To me, they kind of feel like my own children. I just feel like I want to give them proper care and affection… Well, I’ve never actually raised kids or anything, so I wouldn’t really know…

Muu:

Then, do you give the flowers names or something?

Ammon:

Huh? Of course not. What are you even talking about? 

Muu:

Huh?! But earlier you said the flowers feel like your children…

Ammon:

No no, don’t get me wrong. I’m not that far gone, you know. I just mean I treat them as something important, like family that’s all.

Muu:

I-I see… But even so, you can tell just by looking at this garden how much you care about the flowers, Ammon-san! All of them are blooming so beautifully! Don’t you think so too, Master?

You:

These white roses are especially beautiful

Ammon:

Master, you’ve got a good eye~ That one’s in a really good mood today. It’s been a bit weak lately, but… I kept taking care of it patiently, and it finally perked up again… And its scent feels way healthier than before too.

I’m really glad.

You:

You can tell how a flower is doing just from its scent?

Ammon:

More or less.

Muu:

sniff sniff… sniff sniff… I don’t really feel any difference in the smell of the flowers though…

Ammon:

Eh?! They’re totally different.

Chapter 2

[Devil’s Palace Garden]

Muu:

I don’t really feel any difference in the smell of the flowers though…

Ammon:

Eh?! They’re totally different. For example… This rose smells like it’s full of energy after soaking up the sunlight… On the other hand, the roses in the shade smell kind of sulky, like they wanted more sunlight.

Muu:

No, I really can’t tell the difference! And what do you even mean by “sulky smell"?

Ammon:

If you ask me what a “sulky smell" is… I mean it exactly like it sounds…

Muu:

I don’t think I can understand that.

You:

Maybe it’s because you’re the one taking care of them that you can tell

Muu:

I see, that might be true.

Ammon:

Oh right, since we’re here. Master, want me to show you around the garden a bit? I’d like Master to see my proud garden too!

Choices:

Please guide me

I want to see it

Ammon:

Alright, this way, Master.

Muu:

Wow~ There really are so many flowers blooming here~

You:

Are there especially a lot of roses?

Ammon:

You noticed? Roses are actually my preference. Out of all flowers, roses are my favorite. 

Muu:

So all the flowers here are grown by you, Ammon-san?

Ammon:

Yeah, that’s right.

Muu:

…!! I just realized something a bit scary… Ammon-san, don’t tell me…

You mean you check each flower in this garden… and take care of them one by one?

Ammon:

Eh? Isn’t that just obvious?

Muu:

J-just as I thought! T-that sounds way too exhausting, doesn’t it?

Ammon:

What are you talking about? That’s just normal, isn’t it? Every flower has its own personality, after all~…

Even among the same kind of flower, not a single one is exactly alike. Flowers are living things, so of course they all have their differences…

And because of that, it’s only natural that the way you care for them changes too, right?

Muu:

I suppose that’s true…

Ammon:

Do you really understand, Muu? Sounds more like you’re just giving me a random answer.

Muu:

N-no, that’s not true at all!

Ammon:

Oh, right. By the way, did you know roses also differ depending on how many years they’ve lived?

Muu:

Eh? Really?

Ammon:

For example, take a look at this red rose bush. The petals are blooming so boldly and full of presence, right? This rose bush has been planted for about two to three years.

You:

Beautiful…

Ammon:

It’s just entered its youth phase, so its thorns are sharp, and its scent is full of that youthful confidence.

Muu:

I see, it does look bright and lively at a glance.

Ammon:

And then, on the other hand, this yellow rose bush. 

Muu:

Oh? Compared to the red one, this one has fewer flowers.

Ammon:

If I remember right, this rose bush was planted about ten years ago.

Muu:

T-ten years!? It’s been alive that long?

Ammon:

Roses can live quite a long time if you properly take care of them. This yellow rose… The number of flowers has decreased, and its color has become a little pale too.

You:

The petals also look a bit softer, don’t they?

Muu:

It looks a little less energetic. Is it going to be okay?

Ammon:

It’s fine. Even like this, it’s still doing pretty well.

Chapter 3

[Devil’s Palace Garden]

Muu:

It looks a little less energetic. Is it going to be okay?

Ammon:

It’s fine. Even like this, it’s still doing pretty well. If you smell the rose, you’ll understand. Yeah… If anything, it’s actually doing really well today.

If the red rose smells like youthful confidence… This yellow rose has a more mature calm to it… It gives off a gentle, embracing kind of scent.

So, what do you think?

Muu:

I guess I do feel like the scent is a little different.

Ammon:

So you get it a little now, what I mean by each flower having its own personality?

You:

So even roses of the same kind are all different

Ammon:

When I look at rose bushes like this… I often think people and flowers aren’t all that different.

You:

People and flowers are the same?

Ammon:

Just like these flowers… We humans are the same too, our environment when we’re born, and the time we’ve lived through, it’s all different for each person… That’s why there’s never really such a thing as two identical people…

Ammon:

Everyone lives while blooming with their own unique charm. So…

Every person definitely has something that makes them appealing. Like thinking, “I’m no good because I can’t be like that person,” or “I have to become like them”…

I end up thinking that way sometimes too…

Ammon:

Instead of thinking like that… you should polish the qualities that only you have even more and more… To the very end, staying true to yourself…

I think I want to be as beautiful as this rose bush.

Muu:

Ammon-san. That was kind of cool…

Ammon:

Wait, did I just say something super cheesy just now? Ugh, that’s embarrassing~ Master, please forget I said that!

You:

I think it was really good

Muu:

I thought it was really nice too!

Ammon:

R-really? Well, anyway…

I really love the flowers for teaching me that kind of way of living.

Muu:

So, different kinds of charm… Then I guess my charm would be this adorable style of mine!

You:

My charm…

Ammon:

Master, don’t tell me you don’t know your own charm?

You:

Uh…

Ammon:

Oh right, Master. Please wait a moment. 

Tap… tap… tap…

Ammon:

Master. Please take this flower.

Choices:

This is…

There are so many small, beautiful flowers…

Ammon:

That’s a daisy. In the eastern lands, it’s also called “hinagiku”. Its flower meaning is…

…No, never mind.

You:

You came this far, you could at least tell me…

Boschi:

Hey, Ammon. You around?

Muu:

That voice, it’s Boschi-san, isn’t it?

Ammon:

He’s probably in trouble again. Honestly, he’s hopeless sometimes.

Sorry, Master. Boschi-san’s calling me, so I’ll have to excuse myself. If you have time, please take a look around the garden flowers. Well then.

Tap… tap… tap…

You:

He’s gone…

Muu:

Still, these are really lovely flowers, Master! They’re called daisies, right?

Mmm, they smell really nice! Let’s put them in your room, Master!

You:

Good idea 

The End

Berrien:

I see. You’ve gotten yourself involved in quite a troublesome matter, haven’t you.

Muu:

Master, Berrien-san and the others seem to be talking about something.

You:

Is this a serious matter?

Lucas:

Oh, Master. You’ve arrived at just the right time. I was just about to visit your room, actually.

You:

Did something happen?

Berrien:

Master. A new request has arrived from the Grovanes family.

Muu:

A request…? Could it be that an angel has appeared somewhere?

Lucas:

No, we don’t yet know if it involves angels… We’ve been asked to investigate a rather strange incident.

Muu:

A strange incident?

Berrien:

Over the past few days, in the nearby town of Espoir… It seems a series of incidents has been occurring where both adults and children are being abducted one after another.

Muu:

Abducted…? Do we know who the culprit is?

Lucas:

Not yet… That’s why we just received the investigation request from the Grovanes family. Whether it’s the work of humans… or perhaps the work of angels…

Berrien:

I’ve never heard of angels abducting humans, though… Given the recent unusual movements among the angels, we can’t outright say it’s impossible.

So… Master, we would like you to accompany the Demon Butlers and head out to investigate this case.

Choices:

I’m a little worried about this…

Isn’t this dangerous?

Muu:

Master, please don’t worry! All the butlers will be with you too! If anything happens, I’ll protect you, Master!

You:

Thank you, Muu

Lucas:

Then, let’s begin preparations at once…

- Some time later -

Berrien:

So that’s the situation, Ammon-kun, Lono-kun. I’m counting on you.

Lono:

Understood.

Ammon:

Haa…

You:

A sigh?

Muu:

Ammon-san, what’s wrong? Why are you letting out such a big sigh?

Ammon:

Well, of course I’m going to sigh a little. Once again, we’ve been handed some troublesome job by the higher-ups…

Honestly, those people… Do they think we’re some kind of city security patrol or something?

Lucas:

It can’t be helped. We’re butlers employed by the Grovanes family, after all. We can’t go against our employer’s orders.

Ammon:

I get that, but… Then they could at least pay us a bit more. I don’t really want to take on work that isn’t worth the compensation, you know~.

Berrien:

Ammon-kun, we are in front of the Master.

Ammon:

I know. I just felt like complaining a little, that’s all. Haa…

Well, no matter what I say, we’ve just got to do it anyway. Master. Let’s wrap this up quickly and head back.

Tap… tap… tap…

Muu:

Do you think Ammon-san will actually take this seriously?

Lono:

You don’t need to worry that much, he’ll be fine. Ammon-san complains like that, but he’s actually pretty reliable.

Muu:

If Lono-san says so…

Lono:

Master, please don’t worry either. Ammon-san and I will protect you, so just sit back and trust us!

You:

Thank you

Lucas:

Then, I’m counting on everyone. Master.

Berrien:

Please remain safe.

[Central Land Espoir]

Lono:

Well then, shall we get started investigating the kidnapping case?

Ammon:

For cases like this, the basics are hearing people out first. We should look for someone who might know something…

Street Child:

Sniff… sob… 

Townsperson:

He’s probably just lost. I’ll help look for him.

Street Child:

But… but…

You:

The child is crying?

Muu:

This seems like a pretty unusual situation…

Lono:

Let’s hear them out, Master.

Tap… tap… tap…

Lono:

Hey, mind if we talk for a second?

Townsperson:

Yes? W-what!! You’re the rumored Demon Butlers and their Master…!

Lono:

What’s wrong with that child?

Townsperson:

Actually, I saw this child crying while walking through the town… When I asked, they said their little sister and parents have disappeared.

You:

Disappeared…?

Lono:

So they’re missing, you mean?

Townsperson:

Yes, and they’ve been crying like this ever since…

Street Child:

Sniff… sob…

Lono:

Hm? Wait, aren’t you this child’s family?

Merchant:

No, no. I’m just a merchant. I only just arrived in this town for business…

Ammon:

Ah, I see. No wonder I didn’t recognize your face. 

Muu:

Eh? Ammon-san, you remember the faces of people in town?

Ammon:

Well, I’ve been living here for a while… so I end up remembering people’s faces whether I want to or not.

Street Child:

Sniff… sob…

Chapter 2

[Central Land Espoir]

Street Child:

Sniff… sob…

Ammon:

You’re okay now. We’ll be here to help you.

Muu:

Ammon-san is being kind to a child… That’s surprising.

Ammon:

I can’t just leave a crying kid alone, that’s the kind of person I am.

Hey, kid. If you know anything about your missing family, tell us…

Street Child:

…They were taken by angels.

Ammon:

Huh?

Lono:

Hey, what did you just say…

Street Child:

Last night, when we were passing through the forest as a family… An angel suddenly appeared and took everyone…

Lono:

Angels abducting people…? 

Street Child:

I-I got scared and ran away without thinking. And when I came back later… my little sister, my father and mother, they were all gone…

It’s not a lie! It’s true! An angel really did…

Merchant:

It’s alright, calm down. I’m sure they’re safe.

Ammon:

Safe, huh…

Muu:

If this is the work of angels, then it looks like it’s the Master’s turn, doesn’t it?

Lono:

Alright then, we’ve gotta find the angel that took their family. Can you guide us to that forest?

Merchant:

I’ll go with you too.

Choices:

That’s dangerous

Are you sure it’s alright?

Merchant:

No, I’ve already stepped into this far. I can’t just stand by and do nothing. 

Besides, if it comes to it, I’ll run away with this child.

Muu:

That would definitely be safer for the child. I think that’s a good idea, don’t you?

Lono:

Then let’s head to the forest quickly, Master.

Choices:

You’re right

Let’s hurry and go find them

Ammon:

Alright then, from here we split up. 

Lono:

Eh?

Muu:

Split up… What do you mean by that, Ammon-san? Are we not going together?

Ammon:

I just remembered I’ve got something important to take care of… I’ll catch up with you later. If this is the angels’ doing. Master, go with Lono.

Lono, I’m leaving Master to you. Don’t you dare leave their side, got it?

Lono:

I got it.

Ammon:

Then, Master. Please, don’t do anything reckless.

Choices:

Be careful too, Ammon

Don’t do anything reckless either, Ammon

Tap… tap… tap…

Muu:

He’s gone.

Merchant:

Shouldn’t we bring him back?

Lono:

No need to worry. I can handle something like hunting angels on my own just fine.

Merchant:

I-I see… That’s reassuring, as expected of Demon Butlers.

Street Child:

We have to hurry… and find everyone…

Lono:

Yeah. Can you guide us to the forest?

Street Child:

Yeah.

Tap… tap… tap…

Muu:

I’m a little worried about Ammon-san, but we should go too, Master!

Choices:

Yeah

Let’s hurry

[Outskirts of the Town The Forest]

Muu:

Was the angel seen around here?

Street Child:

…Yeah.

Lono:

Deep in a forest like this, hardly anyone comes through. Even if you called for help, no one would come to save you out here

Merchant:

Yes, exactly.

Lono:

…Hm?

Muu:

Whoa! Ow, please don’t stop so suddenly, Lono-san!

Lono:

Master, stay close to me. There’s something nearby.

Choices:

Eh?

Why are you acting so suddenly?

Men:

Heh heh heh.

Muu:

What is with these people! A bunch of scary-looking men just showed up! 

Lono:

These guys… bandits… Master, Muu. Don’t leave my side. 

Hey. You make sure to protect that kid too…

Merchant:

Heh heh heh. Who’s going to protect whom?

Lono:

You… don’t tell me you’re with them…

Merchant:

So the rumored Demon Butlers aren’t all that, huh. Falling right into a trap this easily.

You:

A trap…?

Merchant:

Heh heh heh. From the start, that story about being taken by an angel was a lie. We were the ones who took this child’s family.

Muu:

Eh!? What do you mean by that?

Street Child:

I-I’m sorry…! They said if I cooperated, they’d give everyone back…

So I…!

Merchant:

Originally, the plan was to use the child as bait and kidnap other adults. Didn’t expect to hook Demon Butlers instead.

Lono:

Come to think of it, you said you were a merchant. Don’t tell me what you’re selling is…

Merchant:

Good instincts. You’re exactly right.

Lono:

Tch… What a disgusting bunch. Master, these guys are seriously dangerous. We should get out of here quickly.

Men:

Heh heh heh. We’re not letting you escape. Now that you know, we’ll have to make you disappear here.

Muu:

You’re not laying a single finger on Master!

Men:

Hey, hey. With this kind of numbers difference, how are you supposed to fight us?

Lono:

Fighting while protecting Master, yeah, that’s rough…

Muu:

W-what should we do.

???:

So it really was a lie after all~.

Lono:

That voice…

Chapter 3

[Outskirts of the Town The Forest]

Men:

Hey, hey. With this kind of numbers difference, how are you supposed to fight us?

Lono:

Fighting while protecting Master, yeah, that’s rough…

Muu:

W-what should we do.

???:

So it really was a lie after all~.

Lono:

That voice…

Ammon:

Master, have these guys done anything to you?

Muu:

Ammon-san!

Merchant:

You’re from earlier.

Ammon:

You should give up already~ I just called the Grovanes family security squad a moment ago. In a bit, dozens of guards are going to be coming to arrest you guys.

Men:

murmuring…

Merchant:

Tch… This wasn’t how it was supposed to go.

Ammon:

Now now, no need to panic. Actually, I’ve got a little proposal for you.

Merchant:

A proposal…?

Ammon:

I could help you guys out, you know?

Choices:

Eh?

Ammon!?

Lono:

Huh? Ammon-san, what are you saying…!

Ammon:

Alright, alright. Lono, just be quiet for a bit. So, how about making a deal with me? 

Merchant:

A deal?

Ammon:

So this story about adults and children going missing over the past few days… you guys are the ones behind it, right?

If you release the hostages and promise to never set foot in Grovanes territory again… I might let you off this time.

Merchant:

Huh? That’s just a bluff, it’s obviously a lie!

Ammon:

Is that so? Then I guess I’ve got no choice but to let you get arrested as-is~

Spending the rest of your life in prison… Ahh, how pitiful.

Merchant:

Tch… If we release the hostages, you’ll let us go, right?

Ammon:

And the condition is that you never enter Grovanes territory again.

Merchant:

F-fine.

…The hostages are in a cave to the east from here.

Ammon:

Then it’s a deal.

Merchant:

Heh heh heh. We’re saved.

Lono:

Ammon-san! What do you think you’re deciding on your own?! If you let those guys go, there’ll be more victims again…!

Ammon:

Lono, what are you doing? If we don’t hurry, we’re gonna lose those guys.

Lono:

Huh?

Ammon:

I’ll protect Master, so Lono, hurry up and catch those guys.

Merchant:

W-what is this! This isn’t what you promised!

Ammon:

A promise…? Are you misunderstanding something? I said I might let you go, but I never said Lono would let you off.

Merchant:

Y-you…

Ammon:

And we’re taking this kid back too. 

Street Child:

Big butler brother…!

Ammon:

You did well. You’re safe now.

Merchant:

W-when did you!

Ammon:

Now, Master, get behind me. Let’s leave the troublesome ones to Lono.

- A little while later -

[Devil’s Palace Private Room]

Ammon:

Master, you’ve had a long day. I’m sorry I put you in danger.

Muu:

Still, I’m really glad everything turned out okay! The missing people were rescued, and we managed to capture all the bad guys too! It’s all thanks to Ammon-san!

Lono:

Hey, what about me?!

Ammon:

Alright, alright, Lono did a great job too~

You:

It’s thanks to everyone

Lono:

Hehe. Thank you, Master.

Ammon:

Case closed, then.

Lono:

Yeah. Come to think of it, Ammon-san… that ending was unexpected.

Ammon:

Hm? The ending? What do you mean?

Lono:

Like, when the kid whose family was taken hostage said they wanted to thank you or something. You just came back without taking anything.

I honestly thought you’d say something like… “You owe me one!” or something like that.

Muu:

So even Ammon-san doesn’t ask for anything in return from a child!

Ammon:

Heh heh, what are you talking about? That’s also a technique.

Choices:

Ammon is making a scary face

A technique?

Ammon:

I did say I remember the faces of everyone in the town, right? That kid’s parents are the owners of the shop that sells the best cheese in town. And I’ve also confirmed that the kid often helps out at the shop.

So… you get what I’m saying, right?

Muu:

D-don’t tell me you didn’t ask for anything on purpose, so the kid would feel even more indebted to you…? And then, even after the kid grows up and takes over the cheese shop, you can keep getting special treatment…

Ammon:

Muu, you’re sharper than I expected~.

Lono:

Whoa. Ammon-san… that’s scary. 

Ammon:

Heh heh, I’d prefer you call it clever.

As a butler, the last touch they’ve ever had was most likely from their past family, a gentle head pat from a parent, a welcoming hug whenever they come home, a comforting handhold whenever they feel unease.

Tricia would run towards Haures whenever he comes home safely, Alec would hold Lato’s hand whenever he finds something pretty, Goetia would pat Berrien and Beren whenever they’ve done well.

Fennesz’s sister would hold Fennesz’s hand whenever he feels scared, Flure’s sister would also hold Flure’s hand whenever he talks with strangers.

Boschi’s gramma would ruffle his head whenever he makes a chair, a small table, a small step stool for her, she would be proud of him no matter what.

Miyaji and Hanamaru would be surrounded by their children, asking for a lifted hug, and they would pat their heads so comforting, so warmly.

Shiro, who seems to be avoidant when it comes to touches, I’m sure that Shiro’s mother would cup his cheek and wipe his face whenever he comes back from the forest, brushing the leaves off of his long hair.

Yuuhan’s mother would praise baby Yuuhan while he rest his head on her laps, her hand on his head makes him very sleepy, it was the rare times that he doesn’t have to put up a mature face.

Teddy’s shoulders would be hugged by his companions whenever they finished a hard training, they cheer at the campfire, laughing about the ordinary joy in life.

Ammon’s mother, whenever she’s in a good mood, would hold out her hand towards him, crossing the road to sell the roses.

Whenever Lamli nailed a circus trick, the other circus members would clap for him, ruffling his hair, calling him, “the circus boy”, Lamli felt his heart warmer.

Whenever Nac’s mother writes with ink, it seemed to have blotted on her hand, and Nac would prepare a handkerchief right away for her to use, and Nac’s mother would smile beautifully, cupping and brushing her thumbs at her sweet son’s cheeks, “why thank you, my dearest Nac.” She would say.

Lono’s brothers and sisters would huddle around Lono whenever they sleep, Lono would hug them close for more warmth, he seems to fall asleep really fast whenever he’s with them.

Bastien’s father would ruffle his son’s hair whenever he sees him taking good care of the livestocks, he would give him the food he brought from the market as a reward.

Whenever Lucas skipped a grade, asking for more books, his parents marvelled at his intelligence, even though Lucas doesn’t seem to react towards their hugs, but he couldn’t help but wrap his arms around them.

For it was a long time since they’ve experienced a nice touch, not something discomforting like the nobles grabbing their hands, or even facing the fists of the angry townspeople who lost their family.

Even when they have been with each other for a very long time, it seems like they’re still a slight gap, a veil, that’s still untouchable, something they couldn’t talk about when it comes to the other butlers.

Perhaps they don’t want them to worry, or maybe it’s something they felt deeply ashamed about.

But when Arujisama came, it felt like their hearts are touched from deep within, even the worst despairs and memories melted in Arujisama’s palms. And they’re accepted completely. An enveloping hug to tell them that everything is alright and you can be just as you are. They are pulled back to that very moment, the moment they feel like at home, despite the chaos they face in the world, it’s the reason for them to continue to live, to continue to fight.

They didn’t even know they were this touch starved, they were numb to it, disregarding the aches they may had in their hearts, because they carry it everyday, and when Aruji treats them so kindly, the walls crumbled.

They start to face their vulnerabilities and fears, because they have to in order to heal.

And they couldn’t help but crave for the next touch from Aruji, a pat whenever they fell asleep waiting for Aruji, whenever Aruji wiped and cleansed them from the purple demonization mist, whenever Aruji hugged them to congratulate them on their birthday, whenever Aruji held and squeeze their hands to make sure everything’s alright.