— Re:Zero Fanfiction – Loop 3 – Crusch

Hey everyone, I really hope you enjoyed the last two Loops. For this one though I wanted to do almost an interlude piece, something light and fun before a very deep return to darkness in Loop 4. This Loop takes place during the events of Episode 14 of the Anime, as always if you have not yet watched the series I highly suggest you do. Hope you enjoy the story, if you have any questions or comment please let me know 😀



Stepping out of the bath Subaru walked briskly to the stone bench he had hastily left all his belongings, before he had sunk into his bath.

[Subaru] wah? I don’t remember folding my cloths

Subaru picked up his windbreaker and the smell instantly remindsed him of the manor, soft, fruity, with undertones of Beatrice’s books. Holding the jacket to his face he breathed deeply.

[Subaru] Rem…

Placing the jacket back down Subaru grabbed the fresh towel next to his bundle of cloths and began to dry off.

[Subaru](Still dwelling over Emilia’s words) You have left me out, was the for my protection or yours.

Subaru shook his head as if to remove a bothersome fly, (I can’t keep this up, I have fix this, but until I am given the opportunity I must remain in the present)

Finished drying, Subaru quickly throws on his outfit, tosses the towel over his head and starts heading back to his room. Climbing the stairs Subaru’s attention is pulled out of his wandering mind again as his eyes fall over Crusch.

[Crusch] Natsuki Subaru, would you mind joining me for a bit?

[Subaru] Crusch-san…Right?

[Crusch] That’s right

Looking slightly embarrassed Crusch fanned out the folds of her dark brown dress.

[Crusch] Oh yes… This is the first time you have seen me outside of business attire. The breeze is pleasantly cool tonight. Perfect conditions for sharing a drink, as we gaze upon the night sky.

Crusch turns and starts walking, Subaru hesitates for a moment, feeling no ill will toward Crusch he decides to follow her. As Subaru steps out on to a small balcony overlooking the city, Cursch polity gestures for him to sit at a small table opposite her. Crusch begins filling a small glass with an amber liquid and then turns her eyes up on Subaru. (I am not old enough to drink, but then again would it be rude of me to refuse?) Subaru hesitates for a moment, then decides it would probably be best to stay on Crusch good side and nods polity. Crusch fills another small glass with the amber liquid and passes it to Subaru. Toasting they both raise their glasses and Subaru allows a mouthful of the amber liquid to wash of his mouth. The taste bites the tip of his tongue like fire, then as it rolls across his tongue a multitude of flavors burst out. Subaru’s mouth begins to explode with excitement as the drinking subtly unfolds it banquet of wood, and flowers, and of something sweet like fruit mixed with spices. Savoring as much of the flavors as he can Subaru slowly places his cup down on the table, a smile of deepest satisfaction on his face.

[Subaru] Amazing! what a beautiful drink!

Subaru’s eyes found Crusch’s and she wore a look of incredulity so plain that Subaru’s Smile vanished at the sight of it.

[Subaru] uh…did I do something wrong?

[Crusch] You truly are an interesting person Natsuki Subaru, I am glad you enjoyed it. It took me years to develop a taste for the complexity of this particular spirit, and it is not one people normally enjoy.

[Subaru] I will admit, my instant reaction was to spit it out.. but then, it changed and came alive in my mouth…

[Crusch] You talk as someone who has sampled the finest drinks from the finest lands.

Subaru raised the small glass and like a child receiving some wonderful gift he poured the remaining contents into his mouth. Taking care to let the booze coat the inside of his mouth so as to enjoy the flavors for just a moment longer.

[Subaru](shrugging) To be honest I have never tasted booze before tonight.

[Crusch] What? never?……

Crusch’s momentary look of incredulity began to slack as her eyes narrowed on Subaru’s face. Subaru felt like Crusch was trying to catch him in a lie, when her gaze relented he smiled, his cheeks starting to flush.

[Subaru] I… I guess its hard to believe, but that is the truth of it.

[Felix] AHH! what are nyou doing here Subaru-kyun?? and Crusch-sama why are you dressed so vulnerably?

[Crusch] is it so strange? its no different than what I wear to dine with you.

[Felix] that’s exactly the problem, men are nyothing but wolves.

[Subaru] Your a man, too though.

[Crusch] that’s enough Felis, all who were present at the royal selection know whom Subaru loves.

Felix casts a keen eye on Subaru as he speaks

[Felix] Yea, but I heard they had a fight, though.

Subaru grimaces at Felix’s words.

[Felix] (smiling broadly) I swear Subaru-kyun, you’re so easy to read.

Subaru turns his face away from Felix staring down his empty drink glass.

[Crusch] Dont’t cast your gaze down, Natsuki Subaru.

[Subaru] Huh?!

[Crusch] When your eyes are clouded, your soul darkens. That means your future is closed to you, and you lose sight of your reasons to live. When you do what you know to be right, what can you do by looking downward? Lift your head, face forward, and reach out your hands. I do not want to regard you as an insignificant enemy.

[Felix] If Crusch-sama says so, you have nyo choice. The point is, Subaru-kyun, you need to hurry and make up with Emilia-sama. Think about what you can do to accomplish that, and do it.

(what can I do) Subaru’s mind has been stuck on this puzzle since he and Emilia last spoke. Maybe it was the effects of the drink, or maybe it was the power behind Crusch words, but Subaru finally realized what he, and only he could do.

[Subaru] There is something I can do.

A smile of mingled bravery and foolishness broke Subaru’s otherwise contemplative composure.

[Subaru] Something only I can do, Yeah, that’s right… you don’t even have to tell me.

[Crusch] Perhaps the drink has effected your mind, or I reading your face wrong, but I could swear you are planning something life-threatening… Subaru this is a mistake.

Chocking his head to the side, in a display of mild amusement, Subaru fixed a delighted smile on his face in an attempt to cover up his thoughts.

[Subaru] Life-threatening? I am a fool for love, not some hero willing to be tossed into a lions den, (sighing heavily) No, I would say my cowardliness knows no limits.

Crusch eyes narrow as she leans forward, her blank expression holding fast to Subaru’s gaze.

[Cusch] (snapping a finger) Felix retrieve my chest please.

[Felix] Forgive me but..

Crusch eyes fix upon Felix worried face, cutting his words cut off mid-sentence he backs slowly off the balcony nodding polity.

[Felix] As you wish…(under his breath) If you think its worth it.

A moment later Felix returns with a large chest and setting it gingerly down at Crusch’s feet Subaru hears the faint chink of glass knocking into glass.

[Subaru] Umm..

Crusch’s face lights up with a malevolent smile at Subaru.

[Crusch] I must admit Subaru, I have done you a disservice.

[Subaru](startled) what?!?

[Crusch] I invited you up here and made pretense of friendship with such a cheep drink, if we are to break ground I should have at least treated you as an equal.

[Subaru] Oh, its ok, I would expect something expensive to be wasted on my pallet anyway.

As Crusch flicked open the lock and lifted the lid of the chest, Subaru could see bottles of all shapes and sizes. Liquors ranging from completely clear, to dark amber, and even a few containing vivid shades of blue and green sparkled under the light of the moon.

[Subaru](laughing nervously) oh its no big deal, I would hate to put you out on my behalf

Paying him no mind Crusch lightly fingered a few bottles before finally grabbing a small bottle without a label that contained a clear liquid. Felix sniffed slightly and his ears flicked his eye cast a reproachful look down at Crusch as she uncorked the bottle.

[Felix] Crusch-sam….

[Crusch](cutting into Felix words) you are free to go, thank you Felis.

Felix sniffed again and his left ear twitching slightly he left the balcony again, moments later Subaru could hear the sound of the door click shut as he left the room.

[Crusch] Now, this should do it, lets us toast to this beautiful night appropriately.

Pouring a healthy measure into her glass Crusch then held out her hand for Subaru’s cup. Reluctantly Subaru passed over his cup, watching apprehensively as Crusch filled, and then returned his cup. Clumsily Subaru lifted the glass, toasted lightly and then raised the crystal glass to his lips. As the drink touched his lips his body shuddered slightly. Crusch watched Subaru, a shadow of greed passed over her face and then she raised her own glass to her lips and dumped the full contents of the glass in. Not wanting to be rude Subaru tilted his head back and tipped the contents of the glass into his mouth as well. Just before the drink spilled into his mouth the smell of the liquid assaulted his nose, it reminded him of rancid milk and he almost chocked. More than the smell thought was the taste, which was just about the most offensive thing he had ever put into his mouth. Subaru choked slightly as he tried to swallow the drink as fast as he could, attempting to rid himself of the putrid drink as fast as he could. keeping his face turned upward he did his best to compose himself before looking back at Crusch smiling as brightly as he could.

[Subaru] I thought I had tasted heaven before, (smacking his lips softly) it would seem I was mistaken.(WHY did I say that!?? what the hell am I thinking?)

A warmth began to fill Subaru, his cheeks started to feel hot as all the worries of his mind felt… less, less important, less urgent, less necessary. Subaru almost laughed at the absurdity of what he once considered so important as he smiled brightly at Crusch.

[Crusch](Smiling sweetly) Oh that was a good one for sure, but I have one more I think.. oh.. you will love it.

Pulling dark bottle slightly larger than last one out of the chest Crusch proceeded to fill each glass, this time with a thick black liquid. Subaru kept his eyes on Crusch face as she poured, a look of triumph shadowed her features as Crusch passed him his drink.

[Subaru] Bottoms up then

Subaru smiled blissfully as he lifted his drink immediately draining the contents into his mouth, trying hard not to breath in with his nose. The moment it hit his throat he wanted to spit it all back up, it burned so badly that tears welled up in his eyes as he tried to swallow. Chocking slightly he managed to finally drain the contents of his glass, the burning died down the instant he swallowed the last drop. Not wanting to seem weak for some reason Subaru again composed his face into a bright smile, trying to give the impression of actually enjoying what ever it was he had chocked down, he even chuckled slightly.

[Crusch] What amuses you Subaru-kun

Crusch voice had a slight airiness to it, almost singsong, and her slightly flush cheeks and watery eyes betrayed an unmistakable air of intoxication that even Subaru could read.

[Subaru] Oh… nothing…. just enjoying the night… so… I am sure you didn’t not bring me here just for my rugged good looks… what would you like to know?

Subaru’s mind recoiled at the words coming out of his mouth, they flowed forth before he had a chance to pull them in or even consider them. Holding his mouth firmly shut he sat staring unblinking, while Crusch smiled pleasently at him. Trying as hard as he could to smile back, Subaru truly hoped that Crusch had was not offended by his brashness.

[Crusch] I have a great many things I wanted to discuss

Crush’s focus seemed to slip for a moment and she closed her eyes, rubbing them absentmindedly for a moment. As she looked up again she jumped slightly.

[Crusch] Subaru!? what are you doing here?

[Subaru] (laughing) What?? you invited me… you were going to drink with me… and then we were gonna talk …. about what, umm, I….am …. not…. sure… but I am sure it has to do with me, I mean it cant be 10 minutes since the last time I have allowed my foolishness to cause some stupid outburst.

[Crusch](laughing) The ceremony… Oh Subaru… what in the world were you thinking… I am surprised Emilia did not pummel you right on the spot.

[Subaru](doubled over with laughter) I am sure she would have, but Julius beat her to it… That was not at all as I planned it…

Subaru’s laughter died out as he realized the gravity of his actions in challenging Julius, a look of terror swept across his face.

[Subaru] Crusch… what have I done.

Crusch halted her laughing and looked consolingly at Subaru.

[Cursch] Oh Subaru-kun, your heart is a good heart, I know Emilia will forgive you for being a fool in love.

[Subaru](shaking his head) I cant shake this feeling Crusch…. I think I have done real damage this time.

[Crusch] Oh Subaru, you are so cute when your sad… OH!!, you need a drink!

Crusch reached into her trunk again and retrieving another bottle she poured two glasses of a light amber colored liquid. Passing one to Subaru she downed her own glass before he had even raised his off the table. Subaru lifted the glass and to his delight the taste was bright and fruity. Subaru set down the glass, a fools grin on his face. Looking at Crusch Subaru was almost astonished to see her face removed of all the normal guard she normally carried, her smile was the first truly warm smile she have ever given him. So lost by the change in her face Subaru’s mouth again took off speaking before his brain could catch up, so he heard his words almost as if someone else was speaking them.

[Subaru] If you continue to smile like that at me…. I dont know how long my resolve could hope to hold out… How dare beautiful women make such faces at men, and in that dress of all things.

Crusch burst with laughter, rolling sideways in her chair and falling to knees. Subaru jumped up and made to help her, but the moment he stood up it was like someone was pulling the ground out from under him. He struggled to get hims limbs under control as his upper half and lower half argued over which way to move. Eventually he threw out his arm and grabbed the balcony door for support. As the room slowly stopped moving he saw Crusch rolling with mirth at the sight of Subaru.

[Subaru] Hey, thats not fair…. I can’t get my legs to do what I want.. Dont laugh… I am trying to help you..

[Crusch] Oh… are you my knight in wobbly legs.

Subaru snorted with laughter and losing his grip on the door slid down to his knees and then rolled onto his back, howling with laughter. Crusch crawled to him, her eyes filled with tears of joy.

[Crusch] Dont worry…Subaru-kun… I will save you

[Subaru] (howling with laughter) from this angle you look… your doing about as good of a job rescuing me as I did for you….utterly hopeless.

Crusch hand slipped out from under her and landing face first into the marble floor she continued to snort with fits of laughter for a few moments then she went quite for a moment, Subaru fell silent as well.

[Crusch] OW!

Both burst out laughing again as Crusch rolled onto her side Subaru noticed that Crusch was bleeding slightly from the spot where her head collided with the floor.

[Subaru] Oh no… my maiden is hurt… I will save you

Crusch felt her forehead and then looking at the blood pretended to faint.

[Crusch] Oh, save me brave hero.

Subaru took a few steadying breaths and then slowly got to his feet and walked over to Crusch. Bending low he scooped her up into his arms, straitening up slowly he turned to walk inside, bashing Crusch head on the open door.

[Crusch] Ow!…. oh brave knight… I think you entered me into greater peril than I was already in.

[Subaru](wincing and laughing at the same time) Whoops…

Setting Crusch down on a small sofa just inside the room Subaru turned and sat down on the floor in front of the sofa.

[Subaru](covering his face) This is the most intense sensation I have ever experienced, I have more energy and desire in my heart than I have ever felt…. but it seems I am unable to relay any useful information to my limbs… how do you feel?

Subaru leaned back into the sofa and tilted his head to look at Crusch, who was absentmindedly removing he dress to reveal a laced emerald green bra with matching panties. Catching Subaru’s eye she smiled like a child who had just been caught in the middle of wrong doing. Subaru pushed himself away from the couch and crawled backwards on the floor, both terrified and yet somehow unable to remove his eyes from Crusch’s soft pearl white skin.

[Crusch](smiling coyly) So you have never had any alcohol before…. Don’t tell me that you have never seen a woman in all her glory and beauty…Subaru-kuuuun.

As she spoke the Subaru’s name, Crusch began to slide down of the couch. Landing softly on her knees Crusch eyed Subaru keenly, wearing a smile of purest interest.

[Crusch] Well??

Subaru wanted to keep his mouth shut, but to his horror his mouth had already begun to formulate a response.

[Subaru] I have seen women before if that’s what you mean…

[Crusch](laughing slightly) oh Subaru… I mean… well, like this

At these words Crush uncrossed her arms she placed her hands on the face of her thighs, digging her fingers in slightly. Slowly Crusch drew up her hands until her fingers caught on the lace of her panties. Moaning softly Crusch pulled the edges of her panties up, Subaru heart rate shot up like a cannon, everything in his body wanted Crusch to keep going, to pull her panties higher, the intensity of Subaru’s desire drove all rational thought from his mind and he was a man possessed by his desire. Crusch’s smile grew as she watched Subaru’s face shift from terrified shock, to something nothing short of ravenous hunger. As Crusch pulled slightly higher on her panties the soft fabric pulling taught against her skin Subaru’s body seemed to be drawn forward by purist desire. As Crusch continued to pull, the muscles in her arms shook slightly and she bit down hard on her lip, closing her eyes she pulled tighter still. Subaru body was still slow and unwieldy and his began to crawl forward on hands and knees back toward Crusch, the soft fabric of Crusch panties left little to be imagined. Subaru was pulled forward by a desire greater than he had ever felt, he needed to see Crusch, he need to touch her, why he needed to do this he was not entirely sure, but surely terrible would things would happen if he didn’t he thought. As he slowly edged closer he could hear tiny popping noises as the threads holding Crush’s panties together began snap from the strain. Crusch began to moan louder as more and more threads began to give out, a noticeable wet spot started to appear, growing slowly larger. Subaru stopped moving his eyes fixed on the growing spot of wet fabric, Crusch’s arms were shaking violently as she bit down on her lip even harder. Within the blink of an eye all Crusch’s hands flew upward and what remained of the panties strength succumb to her pull, as if in slow motion the fragments fell away, Subaru’s heart jumped into his throat and he choked slightly as he attempted to get air into his lungs. What knelt before him was beauty like his mind could not take in, he breathed deep and heavy trying to feed his oxygen starved brain, his eyes moving over Crusch’s body as if she was the last glass of water on earth and he was dying of thirst. He wanted to drink in this moment forever, the beads of sweat dripping out of her green hair, those golden amber eyes fixed so intently on him, the soft pink lips of her now slightly open mouth, her breasts slightly hidden by a tangled web of silk, her smooth flat belly quivering in the aftermath of reducing her panties to a small pile of ripped silk scraps on the floor around her. Deeper still now displayed to Subaru like some sinful gift to appease his greed was the wound of her womanhood, soft and dripping it was adorned with a small diamond shaped patch of green hair. Subaru’s whole body began to shake as he slowly lifted his right hand and began to edge closer, the sudden appearance of such a thing of beauty called out to the monster of desire in Subaru’s heart, through the haze of intoxication his body burned for that small patch of glistening flesh. Crusch arched her back, placing her hands on either side feet and titling her head back, her body called to Subaru and she shivered with anticipation. Subaru left hand found her right knee and he lowered his head and kissed her leg softly as his right hand found her left knee. He continued to her thigh, higher and higher he went, his hands sliding up the edges of her legs. As he reached the top of her thighs his hands slid around and he cupped then around the bottom of her ass, squeezing lightly.

[Crusch](Quivering) Subaru-kun…..

Holding firm to her ass Subaru mouth moved upwards still, until it was level with her navel, his tongue snaked out of his mouth like a serpent of wicked desire and traced the ring of her navel. Crusch body began to shake in earnest and he breath came in huge gulps as her chest heaved. Tenderly Subaru’s tongue danced across her skin ever downward, until it brushed across the small patch of hair sitting just atop of the prize he longed for. Subaru’s gripped tighten on Crusch’s ass to steady her shaking frame as his tongue once again danced around, tracing the bare skin around the small tuft of hair. With all the gentleness of the softest breeze Subaru’s tongue brushed the small ridge sitting atop of ridge of Crusch’s desire. Subaru’s nose filled with Crusch smell, his eyes rolled up into this head as his mind was treated to wonders beyond the scope of his wildest dreams. The fires of heart where an inferno and as his tongue slid in-between the soft, wet, lips of Crusch’s quivering pussy, the inferno of his heart burned away all other thoughts, all other desires. Crusch’s threw head and hands up, grabbing thick sections of Subaru’s hair she pulled his face into her, all pretense of anticipation gone all she desired now was for Subaru to lick her, to taste her, to be filled with her passion. A first Subaru’s tongue seemed to pick up no taste, but as with his words it took a moment for his brain to catch up with his mouth. As the sensation of taste finally appeared his body began to melt and his mind came to life. The fluid of Crusch-sama deepest desire was thick and tasted of slightly salty warm honey and something almost fruity that Subaru mind could not comprehend ever tasting. Dying of thirst Subaru drank deep of Crush-sama, the beast of sin that was his tongue tasted every inch of the fruit of Crusch-samas pussy. As Subaru’s tongue began to move faster and faster Crusch’s moans became began to get lost in throat as breathing became heavier and more labored with each moment. Slowly Crusch pulled Subrau’s head in tighter, her legs squeezed together and she thrust forward ever harder. Subaru’s mouth was sealed tight his nose was smashed shut against her skin and he could no longer take in breath, but he did not care, (I would sooner stop now than I would stop breathing). As his air reserves reached their limit and his lungs cried out for air suddenly Crush’s body began to convulse so hard that Subaru had struggled to keep his grip on her. She threw her arms and her head back, in doing so Subaru’s nose was free to bring fresh air into his lungs and with renewed strength he buried his tongue as deep inside Crusch as he could. He could feel the muscles all around his tongue pulsing and her pussy seemed to weep thickly into his mouth. As the pulses died down Subaru’s tongue slowed its attack and resumed a the slow methodical journey of tracing the lines of her lips, then with the utmost care Subaru’s tongue left her skin and he let her slid gently to the floor.

[Subaru] I have now seen the glory of a woman I think…

[Crusch] Then I would have you see her grace as well I think…

Subaru puzzled at these words and he sat up on his knees looking down at Crusch-samas body sprawled out on the floor. As he looked on she turned her gaze to him smiling.

[Crusch] Why am I the only one wearing the gifts of the gods?

Subaru looked puzzled at Crusch, then looking down he realized that he was still in his all his cloths.

[Subaru] Oh… heh, I guess I forgot.. I will take care of that.

[Crusch] Good, and while you do I will get something for us I think.

As Subaru began to pull of his shirt Crusch stood up and staggered out onto the balcony, as he was removing his pants Subaru heard the sounds tinkling glass from the doorway. Just as he freed his body of the remains of his cloths Crusch appeared in the doorway holding two bottles of amber liquid in each hand, a bright smile on her face.

[Crusch] Well now… you have left nothing for me to imagine have you

[Subaru](slightly embarrassed) Oh… I… guess I got carried away.

[Crusch](laughing) just don’t start without me

Crusch staggered into the room past Subaru up to a large bed adorned with soft blue sheets, turned to Subaru flung out her arms, and fell back onto the bed with a look of deep satisfaction on her face.

[Crusch] Are you just going to enjoy the view, or are you going to join me Subaru?

Subaru, his eyes having been fixated on the small green diamond nestled between her soft legs, snapped back into the moment. Smiling, he climbed to his feet, steadying himself before walking to the bed. Crusch lifted her right arm and Subaru lay down on his side next to her, kissing her cheek softly.

[Crusch] Oh lets not ruin such a beautiful night with something as dispassionate as love.

[Subaru] Wait what?!

[Crusch] The drinks we have had thus far have heightened our desires, we are creatures of desire Subaru.

[Subaru] Wait, so you poisoned my mind into this…after… you knew you my desire for Emilia?? what is this.

Subaru made to get up but Crusch rolled over on top him and tossing the bottles was holding. Pinned down by her body Crusch’s hands gripped Subaru’s wrists tightly as she looked sternly down at him.

[Crusch] I did not poison you Subaru, and like I said, this is NOT about love, in fact I did this because I knew nothing could come it… In a way its because of your love for Emilia that I did this.

Subaru stopped struggling and stared at Crusch open mouthed and dumbfounded.

[Crush](laughing sweetly) Oh Subaru, I could see the desires of your heart…. and I could see some of the pain you keep locked away… I know what it is like to desire without return… to struggle with weights only you can bare… I didn’t want to replace Emilia, but at the same time we all need to give into desire at some point, to just be as our hearts want us to be… to be free of the world, to just enjoy to fruits of the sins of our hearts and minds.

Crusch’s words washed over Subaru as he struggled to make sense of it, he loved Emilia…(do I not also love Rem?) he shook his head, trying to focus. He loved Emilia, but what was he to her, what was this to her, (Crusch only did this because she knew it would not change my feelings for Emilia). As he thought about, he realized the truth of those words, and he began to think about what else she had said. It was true enough that he desired her, she was a beautiful woman after all, but what about her did he desire, (she is strikingly beautiful, but, I know very little about her, and at this point she is more prize than lover). He sat on this thought for a while, what Crusch was offering Subaru, a night, just one night were Subaru could give himself over to desire completely, for just one night he could pretend the dangers surrounding him on all sides did not exist. That all the pains he had suffered thus far were the memories of someone else. Closing his eyes, he made up his mind.

[Subaru] Tonight… is about desire… what we do.. how we choose to fulfill those desires… they are for tonight… is that correct.

[Crusch] Yes..

Subaru’s eyes opened and stared deep into Crusch’s amber eyes.

[Subaru] Then all I desire is you, let me have you, for just this one night let me be someone else, anyone else, let me forget the pain, let me forget love, and just be with you.

Crusch blinked and her expression shifted towards a sad longing, but before the tears building in the corners on her eyes could grow Subaru threw his arms strait out causing Crusch’s face to fall with in inches of his.

[Subaru] What is your hearts desire Crusch-sama?

Crusch looked for a moment back into Subaru’s eyes and then leaned her head forward and kissed him deeply for a brief moment.

[Crusch] My heart….Desires you… be mine… for just tonight…Subaru-kun.

Subaru’s heart pounded deep in chest, but his mind was surprisingly calm.

[Subaru] I cannot pretend to understand why you would desire me..

[Crusch] What?!… Is your sight so short?

[Subaru] Well, my mind is not exactly…uhh.. clear

Crusch stood up and placing her hands on her hips she gazed Subaru with a rather severe look, causing him to flinch slightly.

[Crusch] Do you remember the ceremony Subaru?

Subaru’s face went flushed and he tried to look away from Crusch’s eyes as the shame of betrayal to Emilia came rushing to the surface of his mind.

[Crusch] NO!!

Crusch reached out a hand, grabbed Subaru’s face and forced him to face her. Subaru’s heart sank as he saw Crusch’s eyes, overflowing with tears.

[Subaru] Crusch… I don’t….I don’t understand… I betrayed Emilia, I made a fool of myself, and worst of all I broke my promise to her…

[Cursch] You are guilty of love, of not wanting to see the ones your love get hurt. Your tact is lacking and your methods are a bit…well shameful at times yes. But cant you see? Everyone one in that room could see your devotion to Emilia… my crime is far worse than yours Subaru.

[Subaru] What??

[Crusch] I will say this once Subaru so listen to me. I am a woman whos life duty, I have a duty to my kingdom, to my people, to my army, I do not have time for love, I received proposals and I will be tasked with choosing the man who will benefit my cause the most. If I love him all the greater our bond will be, but if he loves me half as much as you love Emilia then I will receive a reward greater than I can tell you… and so my crime… is Envy… I envy the love you shower onto Emilia, and my envy was so great I was willing to poison you… so just this once I could feel that love…

[Subaru] Crusch… It is not a crime to want to be loved…

[Crusch] Subaru….

Letting go of Subaru, Crusch turned and walked to the foot of the bed and buried her head in her hands.

[Subaru](jumping to his feet) Crusch-sama, This will not stand (Subaru wobbled slightly), you asked me if I could be yours tonight, if I could show the kind of love I have for Emilia. I cannot, because you are not her!… so I will love you for you, and not for what you are not!!

Tears poured from Crusch’s eyes as she smiled warmly at Subaru.

[Crusch] is that so?

Reaching behind her back Crusch unsnapped her bra, as it fell to the floor her demeanor had changed. Standing in front of Subaru, naked, and crying tears of happiness, Subaru’sb mind once again began to fog over as his eyes drank in the woman standing before him.

[Crusch] how about a proper toast then?

Coming back slightly, Subaru turned around and grabbed the bottles off the bed behind him, eyeing them suspiciously as he turned back around.

[Crusch](laughing) Dont worry, these are not drugged, they are whiskey and nothing more.

[Subaru] Ok then, bottoms up I guess.

Handing a bottle to Crusch Subaru raised his own to his lips and as the smokey amber liquid rolled over his tongue the tension in his body ebbed away. Looking down from his bottle he saw Crusch still holding her bottle high as more and more of the amber liquid disappeared. Only after about half of the liquid had gone did she lowered her head. Looking down at his own bottle Subaru could barely tell any liquid was missing and not wanting to viewed as weak, he raised the bottle again and drank deeply until he could take no more. As he lowered his bottle Crush took it from his hand, setting both bottles back on the bedside table before turning to face Subaru once more. Smiling serenely Crusch reached out and pushed Subaru hard in the chest knocking him back onto the bed.

[Crusch] Now then Subaru-kun….

Subaru had barely the time to open his mouth before Crusch lay down on him and began to kiss to him passionately. Time seemed to slow to a crawl as they embarrassed, the sensation causing a panic to grow in the furthest reaches of Subaru’s mind. As time continued to slow his mind seemed to glossed over, and he started to become aware of just how heavy Crusch was laying on top of him. Trying hard to process what was happening suddenly Crusch’s mouth fell away from his, her head landing softly on the bed next to his ear, her breathing relaxed and measured. Realizing that Crusch had passed out on top of him Subaru gently rolled over and then positioning her on the bed properly he turned to walk around the bed so as to lay next to her. As he reached the foot of the bed his head became suddenly dizzy as if someone was turning the room upside down and he staggered and fell flat on his back knocking all the wind out of his lungs. His chest heaved as he tried to fill his lungs with air, soon the edges of the room began to grow dark as he tried again and again to fill his lungs. As his eyes closed he felt almost peaceful watching Crusch’s back expand and contract slowly, a peaceful drowsiness filling his very being…

[Crusch] Natsuki Subaru, would you mind joining me for a bit?

Subaru looked at the woman staring down at him, his hands fumbling with the towel on top of his head as he tried to remember the dream or whatever it was his mind had just be focused on.

[Subaru] Crusch-san…Right?

[Crusch] That’s right

Looking slightly embarrassed Crusch fanned out the folds of her dark brown dress.

[Crusch] Oh yes… This is the first time you have seen me outside of business attire. The breeze is pleasantly cool tonight. Perfect conditions for sharing a drink, as we gaze upon the night sky…