・─ Eria's POV
At the tender age of four, I accidentally encountered a gathering of individuals involved in the malevolent act of assassination.
That particular day remains vivid in my memory, serving as the primary reason for its inability to fade away.
The occasion presented an opportunity for my parents, siblings, and me to explore a place of mortality in order to strengthen familial bonds.
During our visit, I expressed my desire to acquire a variety of delectable foods, promising to indulge in them due to their undeniable deliciousness.
"It's been hours now and I'm full. ...I'll go back now I wish someone would carry me―"
After consuming an ample amount of sustenance, I reached a point of satiation. Realizing this, I made the decision to return home, but I found myself located on the outskirts of a desolate road, plagued by confusion and a sense of displacement.
"... Where am I―"
"Run! The assassin is here― Urk!"
Suddenly, my surroundings were consumed by a commotion, accompanied by urgent cries of warning.
「Stealth」
""""""Aurghh!""""""
In an attempt to safeguard myself from harm, I promptly concealed my sense of aura flows, while allowing the sounds of approaching danger to resonate in my ears.
Peering cautiously from my hiding place, I surveyed the nearby road, only to be met with a horrifying sight.
Various lifeless bodies lay strewn about, creating a distressing scene drenched in crimson fluid.
At this moment, it became undeniably clear― those individuals were indeed deceased.
Three figures, adorned in robes, stood nearby, engaging in conversation.
".... .....Those scoundrels, a bad people must be eliminated. ...I'm sleepy."
"Hang in there nyah~"
"Assassination mission complete! Everyone, we shouldn't report this to our superior, okay?"
"We shouldn't because the NUA Association known for its kindness nyah~"
"We are considered their skilled soldier regardless. Let us return home promptly as I am feeling tired. It is astonishing to think that we constantly monitor their activities!"
""Y-Yes."" As their conversation is over, they jumped on the rooftop, and their race was an elf, beast, and dragon.
It's so amazing, and they are also women, I wish to be like them!
But what I just heard? The situation intensified as I overheard the perpetrators conversing, their words indicating their involvement in these heinous acts.
"Hey."
Out of nowhere, a low voice echoed behind me, causing me to turn around. My eyes widened, I saw the three races that I have seen earlier, they were sitting on the rooftop, looking at me as their next target.
W-Why?
I have practiced utilizing the [stealth] with my family.
I-I'm scared.
"Grrww."
"Meow."
They intimidate me, making me kneel in fear.
"...N-No, d-don't p-punish m-me! p-please!"
"She looks like a child, but her physique is rather tall nyah~"
"Your race?"
"G-Giants."
The three instantly exchanged glances and began whispering among themselves.
"(My senses have heightened now! Our commander is King Ueno, correct? What should we do?! His wife is also Queen Luna's daughter)"
"(Let's threat her to prevent her from reporting our actions!)"
"(That may be taking it a bit too far, nyah~)"
...I can hear every word they say.
"U-Um!"
They flinched at my interruption and they looked at me.
"May I also become an assassin?"
I asked eagerly. My will enticed them and they nodded in agreement.
Elf: "We will train you diligently every day."
Beast: "Be prepared, nyah~"
Dragon: "Even though I'm sleepy don't slack off like me."
"Thank you, my esteemed masters! I am filled with immense joy."
From that moment onward, I have grown stronger than anyone else, and I am truly grateful to my masters.
Being an assassin has become a paramount aspect of my life, enabling me to eliminate every people I despise and forgo the need for companionship.
However, I soon realized that things would not remain the same forever.
My entire world crumbled when my family and relatives discovered my occupation.
Their treatment towards me changed drastically.
I despise the way they gaze upon me and how they choose to neglect me.
I am powerless against their judgment, for I stand alone; at any moment, they can expose the true identity of the giant body against me.
Fear enveloped my being.
One day, I bravely confessed to them that I had quit.
Since then, my days spent with them have gradually improved.
I recently turned nine years old and find myself devoting all my efforts to studying diligently.
My father informed me just yesterday that I will be entrusted with the task of guarding the newborn princess for a while.
She possesses an undeniable charm that greatly appeals to me.
A significant period of time has elapsed since our initial encounter.
She was the first person to establish a bond of friendship with me, and interestingly enough, I was her first friend as well.
At that time, due to my unfamiliarity with the concept of friendship, I figuratively planted a track magic to locate her whereabouts.
Later on, she took the initiative to clarify its meaning to me.
As time progressed, I found myself feeling hesitant yet simultaneously cheerful, eager, and diligent when in her presence. With her, I felt comfortable revealing my true nature.
In her company, I can freely engage in activities such as sitting beside her, leaning on her shoulder, and even napping on her lap.
Undoubtedly, I am experiencing personal growth through our friendship, as she has had a profound impact on me. Occasionally, she displays the remarkable ability to perceive my unspoken thoughts and feelings.
Every day that we spend with each other we are happy.
Her caring demeanor and willingness to carry me, when I am fatigued provide me with a sense of solace and reassurance.
The memories we have created together hold great significance to me, and I highly value the present moments we share. She creates a secure environment in which I feel protected. Undeniably, I hold a deep affection for her.
...Rin, I love the way you say my name.
If our roles were reversed, and you were of the opposite gender.
I would willingly choose her as my lifelong companion, despite my general disinterest in having children.
"... Oh, c-congratulations."
Given the passage of time.
I was not anticipating the current circumstances that have unfolded.
As her initial acquaintance, she introduced her partner, who happens to be a female, to me.
I extend my congratulations while my profound sentiments engage in a struggle and remain concealed.
Though my body is steadily succumbing to a sensation of numbness, I am resolved to persist.
While I understand the irrationality of my desires, I am determined to defend my emotions.
Upon arriving home, I proceed to my room and take a seat on the bed.
I find myself staring into space for a brief period.
"I see."
I had no prior knowledge of the existence of a similar feminine identity.
"I desire her at this very moment!"
I exclaim, overwhelmed by a sense of hopelessness.
"It is my own fault, as I was too tardy in aspiring to be more than just a friend to you, but your first one."
"...You would be my one and only."
The feeling that has been directed towards her.
Tonight, I finally realized that I was in love with her.
"...I am in love with you and you are in love with someone else."
I said, and lower my head and shed tears.
"It is painful. Rin, I wish you could witness my current state."
The anguish is unbearable.
I despise this feeling of utter helplessness.
Truly, the world is replete with sorrowful and agonizing phenomena.
I recline on my bed, embracing my pillow. I weep until I succumb to sleep.
It has been several days since I last laid eyes on her at the academy lounge.
I yearn for her and wish to indulge in a moment of selfishness.
"Rin!"
"Eria, there you are," she utters with a smile and I embrace her tightly
"..Rin."
"What is the matter?"
She said, and reciprocates the gesture. I am engulfed in pure elation.
...I have missed you, "...Nothing!"
"Really? I am pleased to hear that. Let us proceed to dine now. Ali, Wren, Idriel, and my sisters await our arrival."
"I am fatigued, hence, would you kindly carry me on your back and proceed at a leisurely pace?"
"Understood," she said, emitted a soft laugh.
... ....I wish this moment would last forever.
We conversed for a while, reminiscing the way we used to, and after a few hours, the two of us are near the mess hall.
Though I felt dejected before, now I stand steadfastly by her side, determined not to waste any more time.
"...Rin," ...I truly desire to express my affection for you, however, I find myself unable to do so.
"Eria?"
"Thank you for everything."
"...It is rather sudden. ...I'm on your side. If you call me up to tell me that you need something I'll run through for you, as we did before, It's the essence of true friendship."
"...I am glad to hear that."
...Thank you for not releasing your grasp on me earlier.
Thanks to you, I now feel a sense of tranquility, but allow me to indulge myself for a while longer, until my profound affection eventually fade away, even if they fail to reach you.
...It may be different the way I show from you but please don't make it confused you.
You have someone you love, so you'll keep getting back up.
As your first friend, I want to be here for you always.
I am committed to providing unwavering support in the same manner that you have shown me. Thank you for helping me to become better, and meeting you has brought happiness into my life.
While thinking, tears stream down my face as I let out a whimper.
Ah, she comes to a halt.
"Eria? W-Why are you crying?"
She said worrying, and I unable to find a handkerchief, I use her back clothes to wipe away my tears.
"... M-My b-butterflies are dead."
An alternative idea crosses my mind.
"... Y-You are exceedingly sensitive. Your kindheartedness is commendable, but you must prioritize your own well-being. It is inevitable that some beings differ from us; certain butterflies require rest, while others undergo battles and transformations. Eria wiped your tears properly, you made me worry for a moment."
...That is one aspect that deeply resonates with me, and that is why I liked you.
"Yes."
I said, she begins to walk again and I embrace her tightly, as she carries me on her back.
... .......
However, my attention suddenly shifts to someone familiar standing at a distance, observing our interaction.
...Sena, do you feel envious that I have taken her attention?
Maintain your jealousy, as I am indifferent towards your emotions.
It is true that she was originally involved with me, but you intervened and claimed her for yourself.
I found solace by resting my head on her shoulder, openly displaying my attachment and I will purposely overlook your presence as if it were invisible.
Oh, what if I want you to feel more jealous, to the point where you end your relationship with her?
.... ...I should accept everything but let me be until I'm moved on.
While in her presence, I directed my gaze towards her, fully registering her importance.
Your act of crossing your arms served as a warning sign for me. As a result, I sported a smug expression.
・─ Eria's POV
At the tender age of four, I accidentally encountered a gathering of individuals involved in the malevolent act of assassination.
That particular day remains vivid in my memory, serving as the primary reason for its inability to fade away.
The occasion presented an opportunity for my parents, siblings, and me to explore a place of mortality in order to strengthen familial bonds.
During our visit, I expressed my desire to acquire a variety of delectable foods, promising to indulge in them due to their undeniable deliciousness.
"It's been hours now and I'm full. ...I'll go back now I wish someone would carry me―"
After consuming an ample amount of sustenance, I reached a point of satiation. Realizing this, I made the decision to return home, but I found myself located on the outskirts of a desolate road, plagued by confusion and a sense of displacement.
"... Where am I―"
"Run! The assassin is here― Urk!"
Suddenly, my surroundings were consumed by a commotion, accompanied by urgent cries of warning.
「Stealth」
""""""Aurghh!""""""
In an attempt to safeguard myself from harm, I promptly concealed my sense of aura flows, while allowing the sounds of approaching danger to resonate in my ears.
Peering cautiously from my hiding place, I surveyed the nearby road, only to be met with a horrifying sight.
Various lifeless bodies lay strewn about, creating a distressing scene drenched in crimson fluid.
At this moment, it became undeniably clear― those individuals were indeed deceased.
Three figures, adorned in robes, stood nearby, engaging in conversation.
".... .....Those scoundrels, a bad people must be eliminated. ...I'm sleepy."
"Hang in there nyah~"
"Assassination mission complete! Everyone, we shouldn't report this to our superior, okay?"
"We shouldn't because the NUA Association known for its kindness nyah~"
"We are considered their skilled soldier regardless. Let us return home promptly as I am feeling tired. It is astonishing to think that we constantly monitor their activities!"
""Y-Yes."" As their conversation is over, they jumped on the rooftop, and their race was an elf, beast, and dragon.
It's so amazing, and they are also women, I wish to be like them!
But what I just heard? The situation intensified as I overheard the perpetrators conversing, their words indicating their involvement in these heinous acts.
"Hey."
Out of nowhere, a low voice echoed behind me, causing me to turn around. My eyes widened, I saw the three races that I have seen earlier, they were sitting on the rooftop, looking at me as their next target.
W-Why?
I have practiced utilizing the [stealth] with my family.
I-I'm scared.
"Grrww."
"Meow."
They intimidate me, making me kneel in fear.
"...N-No, d-don't p-punish m-me! p-please!"
"She looks like a child, but her physique is rather tall nyah~"
"Your race?"
"G-Giants."
The three instantly exchanged glances and began whispering among themselves.
"(My senses have heightened now! Our commander is King Ueno, correct? What should we do?! His wife is also Queen Luna's daughter)"
"(Let's threat her to prevent her from reporting our actions!)"
"(That may be taking it a bit too far, nyah~)"
...I can hear every word they say.
"U-Um!"
They flinched at my interruption and they looked at me.
"May I also become an assassin?"
I asked eagerly. My will enticed them and they nodded in agreement.
Elf: "We will train you diligently every day."
Beast: "Be prepared, nyah~"
Dragon: "Even though I'm sleepy don't slack off like me."
"Thank you, my esteemed masters! I am filled with immense joy."
From that moment onward, I have grown stronger than anyone else, and I am truly grateful to my masters.
Being an assassin has become a paramount aspect of my life, enabling me to eliminate every people I despise and forgo the need for companionship.
However, I soon realized that things would not remain the same forever.
My entire world crumbled when my family and relatives discovered my occupation.
Their treatment towards me changed drastically.
I despise the way they gaze upon me and how they choose to neglect me.
I am powerless against their judgment, for I stand alone; at any moment, they can expose the true identity of the giant body against me.
Fear enveloped my being.
One day, I bravely confessed to them that I had quit.
Since then, my days spent with them have gradually improved.
I recently turned nine years old and find myself devoting all my efforts to studying diligently.
My father informed me just yesterday that I will be entrusted with the task of guarding the newborn princess for a while.
She possesses an undeniable charm that greatly appeals to me.
A significant period of time has elapsed since our initial encounter.
She was the first person to establish a bond of friendship with me, and interestingly enough, I was her first friend as well.
At that time, due to my unfamiliarity with the concept of friendship, I figuratively planted a track magic to locate her whereabouts.
Later on, she took the initiative to clarify its meaning to me.
As time progressed, I found myself feeling hesitant yet simultaneously cheerful, eager, and diligent when in her presence. With her, I felt comfortable revealing my true nature.
In her company, I can freely engage in activities such as sitting beside her, leaning on her shoulder, and even napping on her lap.
Undoubtedly, I am experiencing personal growth through our friendship, as she has had a profound impact on me. Occasionally, she displays the remarkable ability to perceive my unspoken thoughts and feelings.
Every day that we spend with each other we are happy.
Her caring demeanor and willingness to carry me, when I am fatigued provide me with a sense of solace and reassurance.
The memories we have created together hold great significance to me, and I highly value the present moments we share. She creates a secure environment in which I feel protected. Undeniably, I hold a deep affection for her.
...Rin, I love the way you say my name.
If our roles were reversed, and you were of the opposite gender.
I would willingly choose her as my lifelong companion, despite my general disinterest in having children.
"... Oh, c-congratulations."
Given the passage of time.
I was not anticipating the current circumstances that have unfolded.
As her initial acquaintance, she introduced her partner, who happens to be a female, to me.
I extend my congratulations while my profound sentiments engage in a struggle and remain concealed.
Though my body is steadily succumbing to a sensation of numbness, I am resolved to persist.
While I understand the irrationality of my desires, I am determined to defend my emotions.
Upon arriving home, I proceed to my room and take a seat on the bed.
I find myself staring into space for a brief period.
"I see."
I had no prior knowledge of the existence of a similar feminine identity.
"I desire her at this very moment!"
I exclaim, overwhelmed by a sense of hopelessness.
"It is my own fault, as I was too tardy in aspiring to be more than just a friend to you, but your first one."
"...You would be my one and only."
The feeling that has been directed towards her.
Tonight, I finally realized that I was in love with her.
"...I am in love with you and you are in love with someone else."
I said, and lower my head and shed tears.
"It is painful. Rin, I wish you could witness my current state."
The anguish is unbearable.
I despise this feeling of utter helplessness.
Truly, the world is replete with sorrowful and agonizing phenomena.
I recline on my bed, embracing my pillow. I weep until I succumb to sleep.
It has been several days since I last laid eyes on her at the academy lounge.
I yearn for her and wish to indulge in a moment of selfishness.
"Rin!"
"Eria, there you are," she utters with a smile and I embrace her tightly
"..Rin."
"What is the matter?"
She said, and reciprocates the gesture. I am engulfed in pure elation.
...I have missed you, "...Nothing!"
"Really? I am pleased to hear that. Let us proceed to dine now. Ali, Wren, Idriel, and my sisters await our arrival."
"I am fatigued, hence, would you kindly carry me on your back and proceed at a leisurely pace?"
"Understood," she said, emitted a soft laugh.
... ....I wish this moment would last forever.
We conversed for a while, reminiscing the way we used to, and after a few hours, the two of us are near the mess hall.
Though I felt dejected before, now I stand steadfastly by her side, determined not to waste any more time.
"...Rin," ...I truly desire to express my affection for you, however, I find myself unable to do so.
"Eria?"
"Thank you for everything."
"...It is rather sudden. ...I'm on your side. If you call me up to tell me that you need something I'll run through for you, as we did before, It's the essence of true friendship."
"...I am glad to hear that."
...Thank you for not releasing your grasp on me earlier.
Thanks to you, I now feel a sense of tranquility, but allow me to indulge myself for a while longer, until my profound affection eventually fade away, even if they fail to reach you.
...It may be different the way I show from you but please don't make it confused you.
You have someone you love, so you'll keep getting back up.
As your first friend, I want to be here for you always.
I am committed to providing unwavering support in the same manner that you have shown me. Thank you for helping me to become better, and meeting you has brought happiness into my life.
While thinking, tears stream down my face as I let out a whimper.
Ah, she comes to a halt.
"Eria? W-Why are you crying?"
She said worrying, and I unable to find a handkerchief, I use her back clothes to wipe away my tears.
"... M-My b-butterflies are dead."
An alternative idea crosses my mind.
"... Y-You are exceedingly sensitive. Your kindheartedness is commendable, but you must prioritize your own well-being. It is inevitable that some beings differ from us; certain butterflies require rest, while others undergo battles and transformations. Eria wiped your tears properly, you made me worry for a moment."
...That is one aspect that deeply resonates with me, and that is why I liked you.
"Yes."
I said, she begins to walk again and I embrace her tightly, as she carries me on her back.
... .......
However, my attention suddenly shifts to someone familiar standing at a distance, observing our interaction.
...Sena, do you feel envious that I have taken her attention?
Maintain your jealousy, as I am indifferent towards your emotions.
It is true that she was originally involved with me, but you intervened and claimed her for yourself.
I found solace by resting my head on her shoulder, openly displaying my attachment and I will purposely overlook your presence as if it were invisible.
Oh, what if I want you to feel more jealous, to the point where you end your relationship with her?
.... ...I should accept everything but let me be until I'm moved on.
While in her presence, I directed my gaze towards her, fully registering her importance.
Your act of crossing your arms served as a warning sign for me. As a result, I sported a smug expression.
