Darius Vogel - Darius is a name of Old Persian origin, derived from Dārayavauš, meaning "to hold the good" or "possessor of goodness". It is associated with ancient Persian royalty—most notably Darius the Great. The name comes from dāraya ("to hold/possess") and vau ("good/goodness"). What kind of goodness are you holding, mister? A new species?
Vogel is a German surname meaning "bird". It originated as a nickname for someone who resembled a bird (perhaps a good singer) or as an occupational name for a bird catcher or breeder. Bird catcher? Mhmmm..I'm sensing another clear intent here. The bird in question wouldn't happen to be a robin, now would it?
(Remember that time when Nica had a "who's the alpha male" contest with Jude and he said how whoever wins gets a kiss from the MC cause she looked like she wanted to be kissed or something? Well at that time I really wanted the MC to say "well, if you're going to kiss me because I look like I want to be kissed..then since you look like you want to be hit should I just go ahead and smack you?" but Kate didn't say that, of course..no hate I just hold a harmless grudge against this guy..but that's a story for another time)
Nica Schwartz - Nica is a feminine name of Greek origin meaning "victory" or "victorious," derived from the root "nike" - like the Greek goddess of victory, Nike. It's used as an affectionate term for "little" (often feminine form) in Sicilian. It can mean "very good," "pure," or "crystal water" in Persian. (So why is your name a feminine name? No judging, just curious)
Schwartz is a German and Jewish surname meaning "black" or "dark-haired", originating from the Middle High German word "swarz". Historically it's a nickname for someone with dark hair or a dark complexion, or an occupational name for a chimney sweep or charcoal burner.
(This guy makes me feel like he should be protected..like it's a crime to mess with him..but I kinda also have the urge to mess with him..which makes me feel like a terrible person..is this guy going to be alright out there..in the world?)
Ring Schwartz - Ring often comes from Old English "hring" or German "rinc", referring to a maker of rings, a person who lived near a circular, enclosed area, or a nickname for a quick/nimble person. It can be an Anglicized form of the Irish "Ó Rinn", meaning "descendant of Reann". Btw, when I read that about the enclosed area, I wonder if that can be metaphorical?
MC:
(No pic of MC cause you know..she's somewhat faceless and mysterious and whatever)
Kate - Kate is a name of Greek and English origin, primarily meaning "pure". It is a short form of the name Katherine (derived from the Greek "katharos") and often represents innocence, virtue, or a "clean slate". It's giving a very typical female lead vibe.
So do you think the names fit? Do you think they were intentionally picked because of their meanings?
At first I was gonna do just Jude (because I'm devoted, you see) but then I thought "hmm..excluding the rest doesn't fill right and who knows maybe someone wants to know so I might as well just do everyone" (that sounds kinda wrong).
Alright, I'm done. I put the food down whoever wants to eat can eat. Nerd out. ✨
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(AGGHHHH..PLEASE, DON'T LOOK AT ME..If Jude looked at me in real life, my heart would explode and I'll die...)
Jude Jazza - Jude comes from the Hebrew name Judah and means "praised one" or "thanks be given". It can be associated with St. Jude Thaddeus who is known as a patron saint of hopeless cases. Did you hear that, Jude? I'm sensing something personal here.
Jazza, except from jazz, can also come from the Arabic name Jaza which means "reward" or "recompense". Hmmm..rewards and compensations..names really do have meanings, don't they?
(You sure seem eager for something..)
Alfons Sylvatica - Alfons has a German origin and means "noble and ready or eager" from adal (noble) and funs (ready, eager). What is he so ready and eager for? I don't know. I'm taking my hands off this case.
While Sylvatica is a Latin botanical epithet that means "of the forest" or "growing wild". It's usually used in species names (sylvestris) to indicate that they grow in woods rather than in cultivated areas.
(What are you thinking about?)
Elbert Greetia - Elbert is a variation of Albert meaning "noble and bright/famous" or "illustrious" with both Old English and German roots.
Greetia may come from Greet (as in community or a gathering place) or as a variant of Greeta/Greta meaning "pearl".
(So..something random but Ellis really reminds me of a Venus Fly trap or a Pandora's box..maybe I'll even post why someday)
Ellis Twilight - Ellis probably comes from the Old Welsh name Elisedd which means "kind" or "benevolent".
Twilight is kinda obvious but the word itself means "half - light" (Old English twi meaning "two or half"). It represents the period between daylight and darkness. That sweet honeypot with a dangerous strike..do you think his name suits him?
(Hello, hello~)
Harrison Gray - Harrison originates from Northern England and basically means "the son of Harry" and Harry means "home ruler", btw.
Gray is like the color but it's boring to write only that so here goes: it originated as a word to describe someone with grey hair or clothes and in Old English it looks like this - græg. (Harry? Harry Potter?)
(This guy..looks like a beautifully tragic character to me..like a pitiful cat under the rain /are you waiting for a yankee to pick you up?/)
Liam Evans - Liam is an Irish name that means "strong - willed warrior" or "protector".
Evans is a Welsh surname meaning "son of Evan" - turns out Evan could mean a lot of things so I'm skipping it. (Evans? Lily Evans?)
(An apple? What if you get cursed? Oh, my)
Roger Barel - Roger has German origins. It means a "famous spearman" - Hrodger (hrod - fame, ger - spear, warrior).
Barel comes from the Old French "baril" meaning maker or seller of barrels. (I wonder what that means..so he not only will stab you in the back but he'll stab you with a spear and then what? Turn your blood into wine and sell it in barrels on the side which in turn will make him famous? - sorry, couldn't help myself..forget that..the dude didn't do anything and I turned him into a total villain.)
(Cough, cough..)
Victor - Victor comes from the Latin "vincere" meaning "to conquer". It's also associated with the Roman goddess of victory, Victoria. Btw, where is your surname, Vicky? And why are you the right hand man of the Queen and have the same name as her (fun fact: I was so obsessed with Jude I didn't even register that they have the same name for a long, long time)?
(What is this, you majestic man? Are you the Heavenly Demon or what?)
William Rex - William is a name of Germanic origin, meaning "resolute protector". Derived from the Old High German Willahelm, it combines wil ("will, desire") and helm ("helmet, protection"), symbolizing a determined guardian.
Rex comes from Latin and means "king" or "ruler". This kinda fits, tbh.
Okay..I guess the Vogel kids + MC will be in part two cause there is an image limit? Apparently? Thanks for raining on my parade, app. Well, whatever~
꒰ ִ ֺ ⊹ @ notice ⊹ ֺ ִ ꒱ this translation may not be 100% accurate or contain creative liberties due to characterization or narrative flow purposes. if you enjoy, please consider reblogging, but don’t repost these or claim these as your own!
𝜗𝜚 cw — handholding before marriage?!
[VOGEL STRATEGIC BASE - BEDROOM - EVENING]
Liam: Thank goodness you're okay…
Kate: You, too, Liam…
We made sure the other was alright before bringing our voices down.
Kate: Is your body feeling fine now?
Liam: Mhm, Lord Elbie, Al and I are all thriving.
Liam: What about you though? You were taken away after being drugged, right?
Liam: Is your body feeling okay?
I responded and explained the situation to Liam without hiding anything.
Liam looked sad when he learned that I couldn't move properly due to the drug,
but soon after his expression turned earnest as he wrapped my hands with his.
Liam: Let's go back, Kate.
Kate: Wha…
Liam: We came here to rescue you.
——Narration——
[CROWN CASTLE - ENTRANCE - NIGHT]
According to Liam, Crown had learned that I had offered myself as a hostage.
While they knew their relationship with Vogel would worsen,
they worked to find this base to rescue me.
I was no longer Crown's fairytale keeper.
But it was apparent that they thought of me as one of their precious comrades,
as they had come to rescue me, working together to release me from Darius' hand.
——End narration——
[VOGEL STRATEGIC BASE - BEDROOM - EVENING]
Kate: Oh, guys…
My chest felt hot, and I sniffled to hold back the incoming tears.
Liam: Well, it's our fault that you ended up as a hostage anyway. Of course we'd come to the rescue.
Letting out a laugh, he gently pulled on my hand.
Liam: The others are on standby outside. If we're going to run, then now's the time.
Liam: Let's go, Kate.
(It sort of feels like a page from a short story.)
He looked like a prince coming to save the captured heroine.
Such was what came to mind.
(…If this were a fairy tale, I would have without a doubt taken everyone's hand.)
I would escape from the devil's grasp, return to the castle, and live a happy life. Surely, that would have been my choice.
[BLACK]
(But the person I loved would not be there.)
If I left here, I would end up separated from the one I loved.
(If I ran away here, Darius would probably never again believe in me…)
[VOGEL STRATEGIC BASE - BEDROOM - EVENING]
When I thought of that— I had my answer.
Kate: …I'm sorry, Liam.
Slowly, I shook my head.
Kate: I can't return to Crown.
I declared so as I looked him straight in the eye. Liam didn't say anything in response.
Kate: I know you went out of your way to pick me that, for which I apologize. But there's something I want to prove to Darius here.
Kate: And if I ran away here…that will never come to fruition.
Kate: So, I won't go back. Even if…even if I won't be able to see you guys again.
I was lonely, and sad too…but it meant that I chose to stay by Darius' side.
Even if I would never again be able to return to Crown Castle, even if someday I would come to regret not taking this hand…
I wanted to be together— with Darius Vogel.
Liam's eyes widened upon hearing my decision, but then he gave a resigned smile.
Liam: It really was as William said then.
Kate: Huh…?
He let go of my hand and opened his mouth while scratching his cheek.
Liam: The truth is, before we came here, this is what William said to us—
——Flashback——
[CROWN CASTLE - LOUNGE - DAY]
William: You're going to Kate?
Harrison: Yeah, and we'd like you to come with.
William: Thank you, but I will refrain. I find it hard to imagine she would be waiting for rescue.
In the lounge of Crown Castle, William sipped his tea in a moment of elegance.
Liam: But, for all we know she might—
William: This is speculation on my part, but I don't think Darius would treat Kate badly.
William: After all, he even went out of his way to tell us that he would ensure the hostage's safety, as long as we didn't mention the failed capture attempt.
William: He isn't foolish enough to lay a hand on such a valuable bargaining chip.
Roger then wedged in between a perplexed Harrison and Liam.
Roger: There was a neurotoxin seeped into a handkerchief found at the scene.
Roger: Even if Kate wanted to run, chances are high she wouldn't be able to under that toxin's effects.
But even still, William didn't move.
Roger: …Are you not worried at all for Kate or what? (·•᷄ࡇ•᷅ )
William: Oh, no, I am worried. That said, I do think Kate herself wished to be taken away by Darius.
William: Even if you go to her, I figure she'll say she won't come back. And that she hasn't yet proven herself.
Harrison: Proven herself? Of what? (O_O)
The corner of William's lips lifted.
William: When you see Kate, tell her this—
William: "Never forget; you are free."
——End flashback——
[VOGEL STRATEGIC BASE - BEDROOM - EVENING]
Kate: To think William said that…
He had said something similar when the two of us were talking about Darius.
Thanks to the push William gave to my back, I had managed to find the resolve to prove these feelings I had for Darius.
(That's right, I am free.)
No matter what choice I made, I was free to do what I liked, how I liked.
William's words further steeled my resolve.
Kate: Could you relay this to William for me?
Kate: "The freedom of the choice I made has solidified my resolve to be trapped in the devil's arms."
Seeing me with a full smile, Liam returned the gesture.
Liam: Will do. But if you ever want to run away, at that time all of us will come to take you away.
Liam swung his leg on the windowsill, throwing a wave my way.
Liam: We'll be waiting for your return, Kate.
Liam jumped off with a light step, leaving the curtain swaying again.
Though I felt bad I couldn't take his hand when they went out of their way to come get me,
I was relieved to see him well— when suddenly the door flew open.
Kate: —Darius…!?
He cut no corners as he went up to me, and upon taking a whiff, he made a look of disgust.
Darius: It looks like a cat snuck in here. (ꐦ¬_¬)
He locked the window and closed the curtains completely before turning to me with a cold look.
Darius: I just told you not to wag your tail, but then you do so right after with another man…talk about a lack of restraint.
Kate: I wasn't wagging at anyone—
Darius: Did you really think I wouldn't find out? This room's reeking of that sickeningly sweet scent.
Darius: He can hide his body all he wants, but he can't erase the smell too.
Darius: Even when not wearing a perfume, body scent is always there.
He lightly flicked at the birdcage and pointed at the robin.
Darius: This room is filled to the brim with you and this little one's scents.
Darius: So if another scent mixes in, I can tell right away.
(He wasn't even here that long, and yet to get found out by scent alone…)
I knew he had a good sense of smell, but I didn't think he would find out Liam had been here.
That surprised me, and in response Darius crossed his arms and looked down at me with a scornful gaze.
Darius: So? Were you going to elope with that oh-so-Prince-Charming who came to rescue you from this den of evil or what?
[1] It would still be a den of evil.
[2] I'm not running.
[3] I prefer the devil. (+4/+4)
Kate: …I'd say I much prefer the devil over Prince Charming.
Darius: So you didn't run? Did you really think such a declaration would make me feel better?
Darius: Say what you want, I won't believe it. If you really want me to believe you, you should've just been honest the moment I stepped in this room.
Darius: Like, "Crown came to save me, but I turned them down."
Unable to conceal his irritation, he kicked at the floor. In response, I raised my voice.
Kate: It is true that they came to rescue me, but I turned them down out of my own volition.
Darius: More like you just rejected them so my mood wouldn't worsen and I wouldn't lay a hand on them, right? (¬⤙¬ )
Kate: No, you're wrong! I turned them down because I want to be together with you!!
My raised voice surprised Darius, and he stopped kicking.
Kate: Now, I did want to tell them that I was alright, as I had caused them worry.
Kate: But even more than going back to Crown Castle, back to the others…I want to be together with you.
He grabbed my slack arm before moving it left and right.
Darius: Even when you're like this? You may end up living the rest of your life bedridden and unable to move, under the drug's effects, you know.
Kate: Even then. I feel happy when I can be close with you.
Kate: And besides, if I really do end up that way, you'll take care of me then, won't you, Darius?
Kate: It's an owner's job to take care of their pet, no?
When I gave him a meaningful smile, he blinked repeatedly back at me.
—It was like he just couldn't believe what he was seeing.
Darius: You know…you really gross me out sometimes. ( ._. )""
Kate: Are you insulting me!?
Darius: Or rather than that…it feels more like you take things to the extreme.
Darius: Is it because you've got more screws loose in your head than I thought…? I'm not really sure why, but anyway, it's just weird, you know. And not normal.
(I really got called "weird" by the last person in the world I want to hear that from…)
From my point of view, Darius was the one who was quite weird, and would take things to the extreme.
But, it seemed he saw me the same way…
Darius: You're so strange.
He seemed annoyed as he murmured this, which in turn caused me to feel uncertain as I opened my mouth.
Kate: …Do you not like strange humans?
Darius: …I don't know. But I do feel irritated a lot.
He seemed to be in thought as he waved my arm back and forth in silence.
Darius: Whenever I look at you, the only thing I can think of is how I don't get you.
He sat down on the bed before intertwining his fingers with mine, one by one.
Darius: Every single day, every time I see you, I think the same thing.
Darius: I feel restless, and I get frustrated. But then when you're not there I get needlessly irritated.
I narrowed my eyes at the warmth seeping through his gloves, and Darius brought both of my hands to his own cheeks.
Darius: …Your hands, they're cold.
Kate: Perhaps because I've been spending all my time in bed?
But his cheeks were warm, and my lips relaxed into a smile at the warmth that spread from my fingertips.
Kate: And you, Darius…you're always warm.
If I could give a comparison, it resembled the warmth of the midday light filtering in the room, or the warmth that lingered on freshly dried sheets.
It wasn't just warm; it also held a sort of softness that made me feel safe.
(Maybe I feel that way, because it comes from the one I like.)
Just touching him made me feel relieved, but at the same time my heart beat a little faster.
[BLACK]
And every time I touched that warmth of his, I felt reminded countless times that I loved this person.
[VOGEL STRATEGIC BASE - BEDROOM - CURTAINS CLOSED]
We stayed like that for a while, before all of a sudden Darius took off his gloves and held both his hands before me, palms up.
Darius: I think you'll warm up better like this.
As he said this, his ears went a little bit red…
He himself surely didn't realize that, but when I saw that I felt my lips relax even more into a smile.
(He's allowing me to touch him barehand.)
I was so much closer to him compared to when we had first met, and that made my heart go warm from happiness.
I slowly reached out, and his hand, one joint longer than mine, grabbed mine when—
Darius: —! (O_O)
Kate: Darius?
The moment our hands touched, creases formed on his brow and he immediately let go.
Kate: Wha…
Darius: Do not leave this room for some time.
He went to confirm the windows were indeed locked before sealing the window key away in his pocket.
Darius: And make sure you don't allow anyone inside aside from Nica, Ring, and myself.
Darius: If anybody else comes in, shout for help.
Kate: Darius, um—
His sudden shift surprised me, but when I reached a hand out he grabbed my wrist, my eyes meeting with honey-colored ones.
Darius: If you don't want to die, then do as I say.
His expression was more serious than I had ever seen before, so I could only nod in return.
(Could it be…he "saw" something?)
Thinking his ability to see the other's worst future upon direct contact had perhaps activated,
I was going to ask…but then Darius took the padlock and went out.
Kate: Dariu—
After the door locked, I heard the metallic sound of chains before I heard the sound of locking again.
Darius: Tonight at eight, and the next morning at nine.
Kate: Huh?
Darius: If you hear a knock at the door at any other time than those, then shout my name, loud. Understand?
Kate: Y-yes!
I nodded in haste at the voice from the other side.
[BLACK]
After that, Darius came at eight that night but didn't tell me anything…
So I was left with little choice but to sleep in uncertainty.
[VOGEL STRATEGIC BASE - BEDROOM - MORNING]
(I can move today…!)
The next morning, I woke up and opened the curtains.
I found I was able to move much more than yesterday, and I could actually get out of bed.
I spun around in the room out of happiness, when my eyes landed on the clock on the nightstand.
(Six in the morning…there's still some time before Darius comes.)
As I thought about what to do in the following three hours, all of a sudden I heard a clattering sound from outside the room…
Kate: Darius…?
I called out his name slowly, but a panicked voice was what responded back.
??? (Luca): Hey, human woman—! You're there, aren't you!?
Kate: Wha…
??? (Luca): There's an emergency!! Ugh, shit, why do I gotta be the one to tell this human—
(This voice…Luca?)
The door flew open, and Luca tumbled in, sweat beading on his forehead.
Kate: What's going on? What in the world—
Luca: Lord Darius, he—
Luca lifted his head, his expression in despair as he raised his voice.
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꒰ ִ ֺ ⊹ @ notice ⊹ ֺ ִ ꒱ this translation may not be 100% accurate or contain creative liberties due to characterization or narrative flow purposes. if you enjoy, please consider reblogging, but don’t repost these or claim these as your own!
𝜗𝜚 cw — attempted kidnapping, threats of self-harm, sexually-charged (empty) threat, use of drugs.
[BLACK]
Since then up until my last day as fairytale keeper, Darius never once called for me nor showed himself before me.
[PALACE - GARDEN ENTRANCE - DAY]
Victor: Well then, let us hold a grand party, as we'll return by evening!
Kate: Sure, I'll look forward to it then.
I saw off the carriage that Victor, William, and Roger were in,
before I stared in a daze at the beautiful palace in its morning glory.
(And today is the day I part with this place.)
On my last day, which marked the end of my term as fairytale keeper, a joint military practice between England and Germany was going to take place.
[SEA SHORE - DAY]
This military practice wasn't something decided on well before,
but rather something allegedly pushed by the emperor of Germany around the same time Vogel came to England.
Along with deepening the bonds between the two countries, he wanted Germany's naval force to get more training in.
However, due to how sudden the proposal was, England exercised a great amount of caution toward today's practice.
In addition, Victor, who had heard that Vogel would particpate as well and that there would be a unit under Darius' command,
decided to have William and Roger participate from Crown's side and take measures for any emergencies.
[PALACE - GARDEN ENTRANCE - DAY]
I was not privy to the specifics, but it was apparently going to be quite a large-scale event,
with plans to utilize a lot of actual cannonballs.
(…I hope no casualties come out of it.)
May those in the army, the three participants from Crown— and Darius be alright.
I faced the heavens and offered my prayers before turning on my heel.
[BLACK]
That day, the castle seemed rather silent.
[PALACE - KATE'S ROOM - DAY]
With everyone out of the palace, I was cleaning my room on my own.
I thought to clean it as a gesture of gratitude toward those who had taken care of me, but…
Kate: Ah— not again!
Wounded robin: Pii—!
The robin, now out of its cage, left feathers fluttering down and scattering in its wake around the place I had cleaned.
It was a mess I had swept and cleaned up many a time now.
(What a gripe indeed…)
The robin chirped atop the bed, as if to say "forget about the likes of cleaning and take care of me,"
and feeling it couldn't be helped, I set the broom nearby and the robin happily perched on my palm.
Kate: I'll be parting ways with you after today too.
The robin tilted its head at my words.
Kate: The time has come for me to return to my actual home, you see.
Wounded robin: Pii…
Maybe it was understanding what I was saying, or it could have realized I seemed different than usual,
but seeing how it drooped its head on my palm, seeming lonely…it made the farewell all the more unfortunate.
Kate: …Or if you're alright with it, would you like to come with me?
Kate: Well, that said, my room is a lot smaller than this one, and as for the food you receive here…I fear I may not be able to afford that sort of quality…
(But still, it's honestly lonely returning by my lonesome.)
But I thought that if this little robin was there, it would perhaps be a little less so.
The robin went off my palm to fly on top of the open trunk.
On the very top was the dress that Darius had given me—
Kate: …And other than that, you also won't be able to see Darius anymore.
As the words spilled from my lips in a murmur, I felt a squeeze in my chest as my eyes grew hot from within.
(At this rate, will I really leave here without ever seeing Darius?)
——Thoughtscape——
[PALACE - KATE'S ROOM - EVENING]
The devil, who donned the appearance of an angel, couldn't trust people.
And everything between us was different— the countries we were born in, the environments we were raised in, and the way we thought.
And yet, I had fallen in love with him.
(I wanted to be with him more, and for him to believe in me.)
But that day, when I had rejected him in this very room— perhaps proving my love had become futile.
——End thoughtscape——
[PALACE - KATE'S ROOM - DAY]
(Should I have taken him in? If I did, would he have believed in me?)
…or so I thought, but it was all too late now.
It wasn't as though I could see the future of what I didn't choose.
(But at least, I want to have a talk with him before the end.)
If I made a request to Victor, would I be able to meet him one last time?
Well, if Darius refused then that would be the end of that…but as for me, I couldn't think of just saying goodbye here as it stood now.
I gently returned the robin back to its cage before closing the trunk.
Kate: …I've been well taken care of here.
Holding my small trunk and the birdcage in one hand, I left my room.
[BLACK]
And I felt like a pang bloomed from the depths of my chest.
[CROWN CASTLE - ENTRANCE HALLWAY - DAY]
Arriving in Crown Castle, I set my luggage near the entrance.
Kate: I'll go for a stroll, okay?
Leaving the slumbering robin in the birdcage with those words, I started walking in the premises of the castle.
[CROWN CASTLE - STAIRCASE - DAY]
(A lot sure happened…)
Ever since that night I had witnessed Crown condemning a target, my life had changed greatly.
I saw something I shouldn't have, learned things that should have remained unknown, and became privy to secrets that should have never been uncovered.
Even if I returned to my former life, at this point I likely wouldn't be able to return to my life as a letter carrier who didn't know anything.
[CROWN CASTLE - GARDEN GAZEBO - DAY]
Of the evil that ran rampant in England, of Crown who put down evil with evil— and Vogel.
How would I be able to go through my life where he wasn't there from now on, now that I had fallen in love with a pure white evil?
Would the day ever come where I could accept this as something that couldn't be helped,
while crying from the pain of thinking how I wouldn't be able to see him again?
Would the day end up coming where Darius would become a memory?
Kate: I don't want that…
At my words, I felt my eyes grow hot again, and I held back the tears.
But as I let out a sniffle, I heard some kind of a loud voice.
(Is someone there?)
[CROWN CASTLE - ENTRANCE HALLWAY - DAY]
Curious, I made my way back to the castle, only to see the luggage I had put down at the entrance now gone.
Kate: What!?
Not only my trunk, but the birdcage, too, had vanished. And no matter how much I looked around the area, they were nowhere to be found.
(What the— where did they go—?)
[CLEAR SKIES - DAY]
I rushed outside in a panic— and what I saw happening across the bridge made me doubt my eyes.
Kate: Wha…
[CROWN CASTLE - FOREST - DAY]
Before a large cart, there were men dressed in white surrounding someone else.
I strained my eyes to get a better look— and there I saw Liam, Lord Elbert, and Alfons all in restraints.
Kate: —!?
(What in the world is happening!?)
I was about to run over there, when Liam's gaze took me in.
Liam: …! …!!
Liam was saying something, but his voice would not come out at all and even the movement of his lips seemed to falter.
(It looks like he's paralyzed…wait, did they drug him!?)
The worst case scenario played through in my mind, and I tried to go over to help them, but—
Liam: R…un…!
The moment I heard Liam's voice,
one of the men touched each of their bodies— and a loud zap resounded.
Kate: —!?
It was like a flash of lightning at shot through the three of them as they all stiffened.
And then their bodies slumped, collapsing where they stood.
Kate: Liam, Lord Elbert, Alfons!!
The soldiers lifted the three, who had lost consciousness, trying to put them in the cart.
I wasted no time to run out and grab one of them by the arm.
Kate: What are you doing—
The soldier whose arm I grabbed threw an exasperated look my way, but I didn't let go.
Soldier with a mean look: Gathering Cursed ones. We are merely carrying out the director's orders.
(When he says "director" does he mean…)
Pure white uniforms, what looked like lightning rushing through whatever was touched— and a director.
Kate: You mean, Darius' orders…?
The soldiers shot me a glare when I mentioned Darius' name, but they neither confirmed nor denied.
Kate: Don't take these people away…wah—
Though I blocked the soldiers' way, they easily sent my body flying with an ungraceful landing on the earth.
Immediately after my face scrunched from the pain, all of soldiers spared me a glance before they reached for their weapons.
Lanky soldier: Is this one a civilian?
Soldier with a mean look: The aforementioned fairytale keeper, I figure. But he said we could kill any humans.
Lanky soldier: Is that so…well, the director may detest the likes of an English person without an ounce of power. We should end her here then.
Lanky soldier: A soldier from England killed one from Germany during the joint practice, too, anyhow.
Kate: Wh…
Lanky soldier: Don't tell me you didn't know the joint military practice that was held today?
He pointed a gun at my head.
Though frightened before the situation I was cornered in, I nodded, when I heard a familiar voice from behind—
??? (Darius): Did you finish gathering them up?
When I turned around, I saw Darius standing there.
Kate: Da…rius…
He spared me a disinterested glance before turning to the cart.
Darius: Hm? Just these three?
Notably young soldier: Apologies…
Darius: Well, I guess that can't be helped. William may be my first choice, but he's out at practice anyway, so let's just settle for three.
Unable to listen any more to the conversation taking place above me, I called out his name.
Kate: —Darius!!
The soldiers all reached for their weapons at once, but the moment Darius raised his hand, their movements froze.
Darius: I don't have time for you, Kate.
[1] Stop with the jokes.
[2] What is the meaning of this? (+4/+4)
[3] Why would you…
Kate: …What is the meaning of this?
Darius: Well, I think it's exactly as you see, and yet you still need an explanation? I had thought you to be more clever than this at least.
Darius: I'm just accelerating the plan I was originally slowly carrying out.
Darius: We came to England to bring in more Cursed ones. I'm being a tad more aggressive about it now. That's all.
Darius: And besides, I have justification for doing this.
Darius: Because the trust between England and Germany crumbled to dust just some time ago, you see.
He was standing before me, his gaze at me cold.
Darius: Just a bit ago, England's naval ship counterattacked that of Germany's, thereby resulting in fatalities.
Kate: —!
Darius: Germany took this as a surprise attack on them, and called an end to the joint practice.
Darius: …There goes friendly relations between both countries now, I guess. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
My head went blank from shock as he let out an exasperated sigh.
Darius: So don't you think it's reasonable to get back at England after they've brought harm upon us?
Though I didn't know whether this was accidental or intentional, that did not change the fact that England had attacked Germany.
And Darius saw that as an opportunity to fulfill his initial goal, so he laid a hand on Crown…
But in light of how staged this current situation felt, I recalled the incident with the silver butterfly,
and I…found myself suspecting him.
Kate: …Were you not the one who instigated the attack?
At that moment, Darius' eyes widened, but then he immediately averted his gaze.
Darius: So you don't believe me…well, not that it matters.
Darius: Why should I care whether you believe me or not?
(Ah…)
Seeing his reaction, I realized I had done something I couldn't take back.
(I was the one who said I believed him, and yet just now I had suspected him.)
(I…have betrayed Darius.)
The three Crown members were put into the cart. Meanwhile, I stood up and grabbed Darius' arm.
Kate: Stop this!
Darius: No. And aside from that, what right do you even have to stop me?
Darius: You knew of my intentions, and yet you kept the truth from Crown so as to not break the contract.
Darius: But if you had told them, there was a chance it wouldn't have come to this.
Darius: So would that not make you, who had kept your silence, like an accomplice?
Kate: …!
I couldn't say anything back to him as I stood.
(It is as he says.)
But, even if what he said was true, that didn't mean I could just stay silent and let this all happen.
(What should I do…how can I stop him?)
Just then, I noticed one of the soldiers who had dropped a knife as he tried to get on the cart.
(Ah…)
I immediately grabbed the knife— and pressed it into my own neck, looking at Darius.
Darius: What are you doing? (╹ - ╹)
(I don't have enough power to overturn this situation.)
But, if there was just one single, minutae hope…
Kate: If you don't let them go, I will die here and now.
…I would believe Darius once more— and offer my life to him.
The hand that held the knife trembled. The cold feeling of the blade against my neck seemed to go as far as to freeze it.
(It might be a fool's play to pull this off, especially after the way I just betrayed him…)
Something like the life of a human wouldn't be enough to stop Darius. I knew that, and yet…
The way I was now, I had no choice but to put my life on a scale.
The soldiers around us started to laugh at the same time.
Darius' eyes widened for a moment, but right after he gave a signal, and the soldiers fell back into silence.
Darius: The likes of you have just about no value when compared to that of a Cursed one.
Darius: So quit this idiocy and let go of the knife this instant.
Though his words were blunt, I shook my head and gripped the knife even harder.
Kate: I'll let it go if you let release them. After that…you can do what you like.
Seeing that, his composure broke…and he asked me.
Darius: So, do you have what it takes to be my pet for life?
Kate: —Yes. I do.
Darius: Even if I kill you on a whim? Even if I continue saying I can't believe you until you die?
Darius: You might be treated like a tool in bed; your body and heart might break from "comforting" many humans.
Darius: Even then, are you saying you would sacrifice yourself to protect them?
I bit my lips, but I stared straight at him and nodded.
Kate: I trust you, Darius.
Darius: … (⩌ _ ⩌)
After making a look like he was fed up with it all, he gave an order to his subordinates.
Darius: Let them down.
Notably young soldier: Lord Darius!? But why—
Darius: It's fine, so just do as I say.
When I saw the three let down from the cart, I felt the tension in my body break as I crouched where I stood.
(Somehow…it worked out…?)
But the relief lasted only a moment, when all of a sudden a handkerchief covered my mouth.
[SCREEN FLASHES WHITE]
Kate: Nghh!?
I writhed, unable to breathe, but then right after my vision started to waver, and my body was robbed of movement.
Darius wore a pained expression as he held me up, letting out only a murmur.
Darius: …This is the worst future, and yet how was I not able to see it?
[EYES CLOSE → BLACK]
My consciousness grew distant like that, and the knife slipped from my hand.
On my final day as fairytale keeper— I offered my own life to the devil.
t. b. c ⸝⸝
i will blindly follow where this love goes, ‘til this heavenly hell drives me to the brink of madness . . .
꒰ ִ ֺ ⊹ @ notice ⊹ ֺ ִ ꒱ this translation may not be 100% accurate or contain creative liberties due to characterization or narrative flow purposes. if you enjoy, please consider reblogging, but don’t repost these or claim these as your own!
𝜗𝜚 cw — scone and potato slander, brief mention of violence against animals or bugs, brief mention of a violent death.
[PALACE - DARIUS' ROOM - DAY]
The sound of puzzle pieces clicking together filled the room.
I stared at the piece in my hand, asking Darius while finding whether there was a fitting place…
Kate: I'd like it if you could go through the things you like and dislike.
He snatched the piece I was holding before placing it in the center.
Darius: I hate scones.
Kate: Wha…even though they taste so good!?
Darius: No, not the flavor, the texture. It feels like they suck all the moisture from your mouth. I just don't like it in general.
Darius: But potatoes are the worst. Those things are an egregious offense to food. [1]
Kate: So, are things like fish and chips off the table for you then?
Darius: Isn't that for those working class humans?
(Oh, I suppose that's true. I am also of the working class myself, but still…)
Kate: But it is good.
Darius seemed disinterested upon hearing my words as he continued.
Darius: Then if we ever eat it then you take all of the chips. I'm okay with just the fish part.
Kate: I would be happy to…if not for the fact eating nothing but deep-fried potatoes would cause me to gain weight.
Darius: What's so bad about gaining a bit of weight?
Darius: With how thin you are, I feel it would be good for you.
Kate: Huh…
Those unexpected words surprised me, while he looked at me, puzzled.
Darius: …What is it?
Kate: No, it's nothing…
I felt a bud of happiness as I searched for pieces, when he opened his mouth like he remembered something.
Darius: Potatoes showed up a lot in meals while I was at the orphanage.
Darius: And just when I thought I could bid it farewell, they always showed up even after I was taken in by Vogel. It was the worst.
Darius: Sure, it's cheap and fills the stomach, but if it's literally boiled potatoes every. Single. Meal, can you blame me for hating them?
While examining his complexion, I asked the thing I had wanted to ask.
Kate: …Is it alright if I ask what your childhood was like?
And when I did, Darius rested his chin in his hands on the rug.
Darius: It's like what Lord Weber said. I was abandoned at an orphanage as a baby.
Darius: Together with a paper with my name and about enough money as an apology wrapped in an envelope, that is.
My hands, which had been working on the puzzle, stopped as I listened to his story.
Darius: Ever since I could remember, I could see others' worst futures.
Darius: Though at first, I didn't think I was looking at the future.
Darius: I thought being able to see this was natural, so there was not a shred of doubt in me that others were the same.
Darius: But, other people couldn't see. They thought of me as a child with a habit of lying.
Darius: But as the things I said came true more and more, they started to realize they were "predictions."
Darius: From my perspective, I didn't enjoy seeing these futures where someone would get injured or hurt, suffering, and all.
Darius: And as for others, they feared that my predictions were right, gradually putting more distance with me.
Darius: Most everyone was frightened, so I didn't really have anyone to talk to.
I felt I could see a bit of loneliness on his face as he spoke in a light tone.
Kate: Did you…do anything fun?
Darius: Fun? Ahh, I guess pouring water down ants' nests and playing with that was fun.
Kate: Wha—
Darius: And also, I would find the corpses of insects or small animals and cut them open. Since I wanted to know what their insides were like.
I winced a little at how Darius was speaking with a calm expression, but his eyes narrowed like he was reminiscing.
Darius: But was it right before I got taken in by Vogel? There was a new worker at the orphanage.
——Recall scene——
[ORPHANAGE - GARDEN - DAY]
Darius: That person promised that they'd believe my predictions and wouldn't fear me.
Darius: To be honest, I didn't really believe those words, but unexpectedly he continued to believe me.
Darius: And for the first time, I thought I had become a normal child. And what a delusion that was.
I bit my lip tight, recalling what Lord Weber said.
Kate: But, that person…
[BLACK]
Darius: He died from getting run over by a carriage.
[GERMANY - CITY ALLEYWAY - DAY]
Darius: At that time, I saw him getting run over. I even told so to him too.
Darius: But in the end, he never believed me as he went out and died. All that about "believing" me was a lie from the start.
——End recall——
[PALACE - DARIUS' ROOM - DAY]
He let out an exasperated sigh.
Darius: I proved to those around me that, see, it was exactly as I said, my predictions were right.
Darius: That made me happy. After all I could show that my predictions really do come true.
Darius: And so I thought that nobody would doubt me anymore.
Kate: To prove…with a person's death…
Sparing me a glance at my becoming speechless, Darius continued with a disinterested look.
Darius: I didn't really understand the concept of death until I was taken in by Vogel, and laid my eyes and many of the dead.
Darius: So that was why at the time, I thought he was just gravely injured.
Darius: But his death did teach me how foolish it was to trust others.
——Recall scene——
[VOGEL - DILAPIDATED WAREHOUSE]
Darius: After I was taken in by Vogel, I was treated like their military dog.
Darius: No matter if I'd see hundreds, if not thousands of soldiers' worst futures, prevented the emperor's assassination…
Darius: My reward was nothing but an empty "I love you" from the director and emperor…the way they treated me never changed.
Darius: Those days truly were such a laughable joke.
——End recall——
[PALACE - DARIUS' ROOM - DAY]
Kate: Darius…
He laughed in self-mockery, and I couldn't do anything but call his name.
Darius: But, I was even more of a joke for not going against them sooner.
Darius: Even though those inferior humans can't even hold a candle to us.
Darius lined the remaining pieces on the rug before taking one of the pieces and raising it toward me, overhead.
Darius: But it's fine. All of that's in the past now.
His honey-colored eyes slipped in and out of view through the gap of the pure white piece.
Darius: I'm going to create a new world, together with my family.
Darius: I don't care even if I have to form relationships out of mutual benefit. The fact I have a family in and of itself is what matters to me.
Darius: To create a country for Cursed ones, together with them, is my biggest wish.
Darius believed in nobody; for humans, that went without saying— but even other Cursed ones, his family, as well.
(But…)
Kate: If your family is bonded together by self-interest…can you really say that's the family you truly seek?
Darius' brows twitched.
Darius: What makes you say that?
Kate: Because if anything happens, you might get betrayed, or they might cut you off and distance themselves from you.
Darius: I'll cross the bridge when I get there. And I can just tame them so they won't betray me too.
He held onto the puzzle piece as he lifted his upper body up so he was sitting on the rug, an arm wrapped around one of his knees.
Darius: The same goes for Nica and Ring too. Nica works to protect Ring, and likewise Ring works to ease Nica's burdens.
Darius: But it's not like I threatened them or anything.
Darius: All I did was hint at what would be the worst possibility for them.
Kate: So, you did that to fulfill your own goals…
Darius: You mean I'm manipulating them? But what's so bad about that?
Darius: Whatever the reason, they had been oppressed by humans, just like myself.
Darius: That's why they became my family. So isn't it natural then that they cooperate?
Darius: That's what family is— they face the same way, no?
In light of his expression that seemed to say all of this was obvious, I recalled what Nica had said before.
——Flashback——
[LONDON - CAFÉ - DAY]
Nica: When it comes to Cursed ones, the line between Dari and others gets a bit blurred.
Nica: He sees himself as other Cursed ones, so if they go through suffering, he ends up feeling hurt himself, too.
Nica: He suffers and gets mad to an abnormal degree, utterly destroying humans who hurt him.
——End flashback——
[PALACE - DARIUS' ROOM - DAY]
Darius cared for his own, so to the Cursed ones who had been hurt, he was perhaps like a savior.
(He saves them and pulls them out of their worst future.)
(Perhaps he is seen as something like an angel.)
He genuinely believed that "there was no family who would oppose his thoughts."
But…just as there were humans who held many different thoughts, there were Cursed ones who had thoughts of their own.
The family that Darius spoke of were Cursed ones who worked for the same organization, united by a relationship based in self-interest.
I couldn't bring myself to think…he and I shared the same view.
Kate: …Does every Cursed one really seek that country, the same way you do, Darius?
My murmur made Darius' hand stop.
Darius: Even if I can create a country where nobody would get hurt nor feel isolated?
[1] Conflicts may still arise then.
[2] What of those who want to live with humans?
[3] Not everyone thinks the same. (+4/+4)
Kate: But not everybody will necessarily hold the same thoughts as you.
Darius: If there really are those out there who oppose to me trying to make a country for Cursed ones, that can't be helped.
Darius: They haven't yet become my family, after all. How can they see its appeal then?
Darius: That's why I have them become my family. If they do, then surely they can agree with me then.
No matter what I said, my thoughts couldn't reach him, and in the same vein his thoughts couldn't reach me.
We were different people, raised in different environment, living different lives, and experiencing different types of pain.
It was natural that there were things I didn't understand, or even things I couldn't sympathize with.
(But, it's wrong to pull back here, thinking there's nothing I can do.)
If I didn't know, I should make an effort to learn. If I couldn't understand, I should try to meet him in the middle.
Otherwise, I would remain unable to prove this "love."
Kate: Say, Darius.
I gently held his hand in mine.
Kate: I believe that other Cursed ones may not necessarily agree with your wish.
Darius' gaze dropped that moment, but he didn't push my hand away.
Kate: There are humans who have hurt you, just as a human who loves you…is right before your eyes.
Kate: And, call them family all you'd like, but Cursed ones, too, hold their own thoughts.
Kate: At the very least, that's how it is with the Cursed ones I've come to know— that is, everyone in Crown.
Even if they worked at the same organization, and even if he called them family…that didn't necessarily mean they thought the same way as Darius.
(Nica, too, said that he is with Darius to ride on his coattail.)
Which meant that, if there came a time when they had better options, wouldn't the people around him all leave at the same time?
If the people he cared about, whom he called his family, left him— wouldn't Darius become alone then?
With those premonitions, I held his hand tighter.
Kate: I think, in the eyes of Cursed ones, you are very kind.
Kate: But at the same time, you think their thoughts are a complete mirror of your own, so you don't listen to others well either.
Darius' hand twitched.
Kate: You're trying to build a country for Cursed ones, unable to forgive seeing your kind hurt. That, I understand.
Kate: But there's really no need to bear the pain of other Cursed ones.
Kate: After all…if a family built upon self-interest, that isn't really a family, no?
…A moment of silence filled the room.
But then right after— Darius flipped the entire milk puzzle over.
[SCREEN FLASHES WHITE]
Kate: Wah—
My hand let go of his out of surprise for the scattered pieces.
Darius: I'm done here.
With a cold gaze on me, he stood up.
Darius: Go back already. Oh, and throw this away too.
He pushed the wilted bluebottle flowers arranged in the vase on me.
(…I've definitely overstepped.)
Reflecting on myself, I stood up and tried to give an apology,
but the next moment he spun my body around and pushed me to the door.
Kate: Um, Darius—
[PALACE - INNER CORRIDOR - DAY]
And he left me at the other side of the boundary— to the corridor.
Kate: Dariu—
The moment I turned around, the door slammed shut.
(…Getting close sure is hard.)
The wilted bluebottle flowers in my hand, I walked down the corridor with disheartened feelings.
(But if I stop facing him, Darius won't ever come to believe me.)
If I stopped just because I felt down, I could forget about proving my love.
I lifted my head and lightly slapped my own cheeks.
Kate: I'll do my best.
The sunlight filtering through the windows felt warm…
[BLACK]
And remembering of his warmth— my heart squeezed in my chest.
t. b. c ⸝⸝
masterlist 🪽 ┊ ko-fi ☕️ ┊ comms 🤍 ┊ backlog 🕰️
────────୨ৎ────────
NOTES:
Quick heads up, I’m not completely sure if the placement for this choice is exactly right, as reading back on a chapter doesn’t include where the choice is. I can check back on this sometime later.
[1] This sentence’s actual translation is probably more something like “that’s not something one should/can eat” [あれは人が食べるものじゃないよ] (are ga hito ga taberu mono janai yo). I’m being pretty self-indulgent with phrasing — but look, the idea is that he hates potatoes very, very much.
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Why is choosing Gilbert is still sad after finishing his route
Spoiler Alert!!!
Knowing that Gilbert will die at some point, he prepares Emma for worst-case scenarios:
On his birthday (2025 JP event), he asked Emma to act as the empress for one day and make decisions on her own regarding issues arising from nobles, without his help (though he did give her some hints).
He gave her a gun and told her to always keep it on her.
He taught her how to shoot with a water gun and how to hit targets accurately.
He tries to eliminate the maximum amount of corruption so Emma doesn't have to face any.
Roderic's true role
He always refers to his death when talking to himself and wishes for each passing moment with Emma to last.
He lives loathing his entire bloodline, his country, and even his youngest self. Basically, he believes his sole existence is already a sin.
He bounces between his trauma and giving up on life and seeing hope in Emma, his last hope in life.
Basically, he can't live a day without thinking, "Tomorrow might be my last day, so I gotta try harder to make it easier on Emma." "I need to protect her heart." "She needs to survive." "I want to be with her... a little more."
He shows her how corrupt the world is and that everything isn't what it seems, while trying to lift much of the burden from her (the real dirty stuff).He wants her to be strong to deal with it, but at the same time pure, so she doesn't turn out like him.
Gilbert events are always bittersweet to me; they give you a fun story with subtle angst, so it doesn't fully feel like a happy ending for the couple, which is heartbreaking...
Kinda reminds me of My love Mine All Mine lyrics
So when I die, which i must do could it shine down here with you
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CHEVALIER HIJACKING THE APP 2026- BEHIND THE SCENES EPISODES ABOUT HIM- TRANSLATION
Story from Clavis: As Clavis approached the sleeping Chevalier with an adhesive sleep mask designed like a pleading-face emoji, he was hurled through the window by a drowsy Chevalier, shattering the windowpane as he fell into the garden.
Story from Yves: Fed up with Clavis' pranks, Yves turned to Chevalier for advice on spotting the traps. Instead of helping, Chevalier roasted him for being unobservant, which caused Yves to binge-eat that day.
Story from Luke: Among the forest animals Luke befriended, there is an aloof squirrel. Due to its constant disdainful attitude, Luke named it Chevalier the Second.
Story from Leon: Since Chevalier rejects his invitations to banquets, he once tried to hold one in the library, bringing alcohol and dried meat. However, after that, Chevalier stopped talking to him for a while.
Story from Rio: When he goes drinking with the guard Lucian and Cyran, the knight of the external affairs faction, it usually turns into a meeting where they praise the greatness of Chevalier.
Story from Nokto: If he wants to truly get rid of a woman who chases him, he takes shelter at Chevalier's side, relying on the tiger’s unapproachability to overcome the situation
Story from Licht: The sword Licht uses when training alone is actually one that Chevalier discarded in the past. He fetched it in secret and cherishes like a treasure.
Story from Sariel: Chevalier is able to receive reports from Nokto while checking documents, giving orders to Sariel and throwing a paperweight at Clavis who is creeping toward him, all at the same time.
Story from Jin: Wanting to improve his relationship with Chevalier, he suggested accompanying him on an official duty. However, unable to stand the silence in the carriage, he appeared quite pale upon their return.
Story from Keith: Since he gets nervous while talking to Chevalier, he always drinks herbal tea before meeting him to calm himself.
