#elbert greetia blind love translation

[aishangotome]

Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Epilogue

Blind Love Chapter 25

♡———♡

Several seasons have passed since we started living in Crown Castle.

Occasionally, we have days like this--when we can't get out of bed.

Kate: Mmm... Lord Elbert... we should go eat soon...

Elbert: ...No.

When I try to gently remove the arm that's hugging me from behind, my already limp body is rolled over, and he hugs me from the front again.

Elbert: ...Today, I'm not taking a single step outside.

Kate: Ah, ah--

Elbert licks and bites all over my body, leaving marks as proof of his possessiveness and obsession.

--The trigger is always trivial and sudden.

In a locked room, we made love until we were both drenched in sweat, then dozed off and woke up to eat in bed. As we chatted about silly things, before we knew it, we were melting into each other again – as if losing the contours of our bodies.

Kate: Wait, Lord Elbert...

Elbert: ...No?

He lifts his head from my chest and tilts it.

His blue eyes waver anxiously beneath the smooth sway of his golden hair, and the depths of my chest tingle sweetly.

Kate: ...No, I don't dislike it...

Elbert: I see... That's good.

Kate: But...

Elbert: ...But?

My face grows hot, and I hug Elbert's head tightly to my chest.

Kate: When we spend time like this... my body feels strange for a while after...so it's a bit troublesome.

Elbert: ............

Elbert: ...You're cute even when you're troubled.

Kate: Oh my...That's the one thing that really troubles me, you know...?

Elbert: ...Ah, I apologize.

Elbert: But... you're still cute even when you're angry.

Kate: ...

Elbert: ...hehe.

His shapely lips kiss the tip of my nose, leaving me speechless.

--Elbert, smiling happily, is the most beautiful person in the world.

-

William: Elbert has become more of a "greedy queen" than before, hasn't he?

After dinner the next day--after seeing off Alfons and Elbert, who had been called away by Victor, William raised his teacup to his lips and laughed cheerfully.

Kate: Is that so...?

William: Yes. Perhaps it's because he's learned to desire for himself... not for the sake of gaining someone's approval.

His hand reaches out and brushes away the hair that had fallen on my shoulder.

His fingertips touch the exposed nape of my neck.

Kate: ...William?

The memory of Elbert's lips leaving a mark of obsession there resurfaces, and my cheeks heat up.

William: This is a cute mark.

William: But Elbert's desires, from now on--may even consume your hands, feet, eyes, and ears.

William's red eyes narrow as if testing me.

The mark Elbert left tingles sweetly.

Kate: ...I understand.

Happiness, love, heart, body, life... fleeting things slip through our fingers no matter how tightly we cling to them.

I know the urge to capture, bind, consume, and not lose them burns within him.

(But Elbert... is a strong and gentle person.)

I know he suppresses his desires day and night so as not to hurt or sadden me.

I know the reason he occasionally locks me in that room is because the suppressed desires reach their limit and overflow.

(So... even if Elbert's kindness is one day consumed by desire--)

Kate: ...If it satisfies Lord Elbert,

Kate: I'd be happy to offer my arms and legs...

My whispered voice was, even to my own surprise, dreamily ecstatic.

William: ...Elbert truly found a wonderful jewel.

His fingertip traced the red mark and then left my skin.

William: I look forward to seeing where your love will lead.

Elbert: --Kate.

Kate: Ah, welcome back Lord Elbert...

Before I could turn around at his call, he pulled me closer.

Elbert: ...Come.

(Ah, there it is again.)

You look at me with such longing, covetous eyes.

I will gladly bear the sin of your greed once more.

-

As soon as we returned to his room, Elbert embraced me.

Elbert: ...I apologize.

Elbert: I try to restrain myself, to not take you away like this so you won't suffer...

Elbert: But...

His fingertips trace the spot where William touched.

Elbert: ...I couldn't.

His blue, ocean-like eyes are moist with a dim obsession, filled with pain.

(The happiness and pain Elbert feels right now)

(It's all my fault.)

Along with the guilt, a tingling pleasure runs down my spine.

He looks so pitiful, so adorable... so lovable, seeking me as if drowning in pain.

Following the feelings welling up in my chest, I kissed his lips.

Elbert: ...Kate?

Kate: You don't have to restrain yourself.

Elbert: Then... why do you look so pained?

Kate: ...Because I'm happy.

Kate: I'm happy that you desire me... that you're suffering.

Kate: I'm so happy that my chest aches...

Elbert: ...

Kate: I'm the one who should apologize, for being happy that you're suffering...

Elbert: ––Quiet.

Kate: Mmm...

Our tongues entwine deeply, our kiss stealing each other's breath, sending a tingling sensation through my head.

Elbert: ...If I don't have to restrain myself,

Elbert: I want to make you forget the feeling of being touched by anyone other than me... right now.

Kate: ...

His gaze, dark and burning hot, falls on the nape of my neck, and once again, my heart trembles with joy.

(I want to be branded with all of that possessive love--)

Kate: Please... paint me all over with you.

Elbert: ...Kate.

Elbert's hand rougly sews my wrists to the wall.

Kate: Nngh--!

I felt a sweet pain as he bit my neck, crucifying me like a butterfly.

The body that had made love in a sloppy manner just yesterday only picked up pleasure from the pain, overflowing with nectar.

Kate: Ah, ah....Nnn.....

Elbert's soft, hot tongue brushed the deeper red marks, caressing my throat, collarbone, and chest, making a watery sound.

Elbert: ...Let me expose you even more.

Elbert: Let me touch you deep inside, where only I can touch you...

My wrists were released, and I was about to collapse, but I was still standing with my back pressed against the wall. Elbert wet my entire body from top to bottom with his lips, tongue, and fingertips, opening my blouse, and removing my skirt and underwear.

It was as if he was carving my entire body into his own.

Kate: Lord Elbert...

Elbert: Hm...What...?

Kneeling at my feet, Elbert looked up at me, running his tongue along my trembling thighs.

His ocean-blue eyes, stirred as if to churn up the obsession lurking in their depths, melted into a muddy pool. The deepest part of my body, a place only Elbert could touch, ached madly for him.

Kate: ……I love you.

Elbert: …… Ah……

Elbert: I love you too.

Elbert: My –– my only, Kate.

Avaricious love erodes the gentle him.

While I cherish his kindness, I dream of the day when I will be robbed of everything by his greedy love.

That day will surely come, someday--

It will be the best happy ending for us.

-

Roger: Hey …… What do you think about El's fate?

Roger asked the man next to him, watching Kate from a distance, groaning while looking at the flowers wet with morning dew.

Alfons: El's fate …… "To die without gaining or fulfilling anything," was it?

Alfons, who was asked, leans languidly against the pillar and looks towards Roger's line of sight.

Alfons: I interpreted it literally to mean that nothing would remain in his hands……

Alfons: But if it means suffering from an endless desire for love……

Alfons: I think it's too romantic to call it a curse.

Roger: ……Are you envious?

Alfons: I'll hit you.

Another figure appears in the garden.

A man with golden hair that is dazzling even from a distance and a beautiful appearance like a bisque doll finds Kate in the flower garden and calls her name in a voice sweeter than any flower nectar.

Elbert: Kate.

Kate: ! Yes, I'm coming.

Picking a flower, Kate runs.

A fluttering butterfly, as if lured by a flower.

Roger: Haha, she looks happy just being called by her name.

Alfons: …… If I could smile like that.

Alfons: The pain of love would be just a little spice.

-

Elbert: That flower is ……?

Kate: I was looking for a flower that suits you, Lord Elbert.

I gently decorate the pure white rose I found in the garden on his hair that looks like it was spun from gathered light.

Elbert, adorned with roses, blinked his eyes.

Kate: Look ……It's very beautiful. As a thank you for the flower crown the other day.

Elbert: ……I have more things to decorate my room with again.

Kate: Shall we make it into pressed flowers?

Elbert: That's a good idea. ……Put it in a frame so it doesn't break.

Kate: Hehe, then I have to buy a nice frame.

Elbert: ............

Kate: ……Lord Elbert? What's wrong?

Elbert: ––Nothing.

Elbert: I was just admiring you again.

Elbert: You are the most beautiful in the world today, smiling happily.

Let's stay together until the best happy ending.

While embracing the joy and pain of loving each other ––.

----

Both Ending Clear Epilogue

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[Return to Ikevil Masterlist]

[gayuu-the-necromancer]

SPOILERS ALERT! (Obviously!)

I haven't actually finished. Just one more chapter left. But its fine. I'm done with the major plot anyways. Let's start!

How do I feel about Elbert's route?

All in all, it was kinda....meh. I wasn't entirely bad nor it was good. It's just...I'm so dissatisfied.

How was the story?

It was half boring and half good. I chose the Madness route and let me just say, for how dark Elbert's story is, the ending is just so disappointing. Now this is just the Madness route, maybe in the Blind route is much better (I hope it is).

El's story mainly contains two stories - 1. Main story that reveals El's past and his curse and 2. Bernard&Co. I'll be honest... I don't care about Bernard and his company! Nor do I care about Gabriel and his kinky stuff nor Daisy and her blue poppies. It really has nothing to do with El's past. It's just boring side story that just keeps getting in the way of the main storyline and it cannot be avoided. I honestly didn't pay any attention to Bernard&Co story because I was bored and I'm more interested in getting to know El.

On the other hand, I was quite interested in El's past. Yes! It's one of the most tragic ones I've heard. I love how dark it is and the writers did a good job in making me actually hate EVERYONE related to El. I also loved how they showed the scene where Al tells Kate about El's past in a library where they first met and at the same time, El was having a dream where he sees his whole childhood. It's a nice transition. They keep switching between Kate's pov to El's pov from time to time. Good job! I liked that.

The writers did keep me interested in the story because to be honest, I was really looking forward on how El finally comes out from his tragic past and faces his true nemesis. But they went and ruined it in the end so much so that it WASN'T WORTH SPENDING 1500 DIAMONDS and 25 story tickets!!! Yes! I did use my diamonds, which I've been saving for Jude, on story tickets.....because I was so hooked! I couldn't wait 10 days and I couldn't sleep until I found out what's going to be Jeffery's ending.

What happens to Jeffery?

By this time, you must know that, Jeffery is the true main villain in El's route. Not Gabriel Bernard. If you don't know, Jeffery was the chief butler of the Greetia house. He and the other servants SA-ed El everyday since he was 9-year-old. Not only this, let me list out all the crimes he has committed:

SA-ed a minor everyday.

Brainwashed and manipulated that same child.

Bribed a guy to kidnapped Kate and also told him to sell her, because you know, she was preventing him from SA-ing El.

Tried to kill Kate.

And also being completely delusional in thinking that the reason why El was trying to kill him because Kate brainwashed him and not because...all of the above.

Yeah. So you'd think, a monster like that would get painful death, right? But no. El just shows up, says hi and stabs him with his sword. That's it.

I was really disappointed, because I thought, El was going to make him suffer for what he has done and killing him as painfully as possible, because he deserves it. For some reason, the writers just made it anticlimactic. If I compare this ending with William and Harrison, their ending is much more exciting. Especially William's...I'll translate that as soon as my exam is over...so please be patient, it's on Sep 8th. Okay?

But yeah, that's it. I don't how El kills him in the other ending. Someone told me that El poisons him. Poison apple I guess. I'll see that when I play the other ending, but not anytime soon.

What is El's tragic ending?

El's tragic ending according to Victor is to die while being unsatisfied. We see El trying to collect the most beautiful thing in the world, but El's tragic end is, he will die without getting that most beautiful thing.

What about Al?

I still don't understand why Al kissed Kate. It still confuses me and Yes! Kate does tell El that Al kissed her and El was like--

Kate: "Well....Mr. Alphonse.....kissed me on the lip--"

El kisses her before she could finish her sentence.

El: "Tell me Kate, who is your daddy?"

Kate: *blushes* "It's Lord Elbert...."

El: *smiling* "Good."

El: "If it's Al, I don't mind..."

Kate: "You're....n-not going to kill him, right?"

El: "If it was someone else, I would have.......I'd rather you not, but if you want to kiss someone else besides me, it should be only Al."

Kate: *jealous* "I don't want to kiss someone else. I only want to kiss you..."

Yeah, that's El's reaction. He was surprisingly calm about it. Al on the other hand is starting to grow on me. He's like the Mitsuhide of this game, so mysterious that you can't tell if he's on good side or bad side. El seems to trust Al very much. Yes, he is jealous about Kate spending time with another man, but he also trusts Al and knows that no matter what, Al will keep her safe. Al on the other hand dislikes the fact that both Kate and El trusts him so much. I don't know if Al even likes El as friend. Sometimes he acts like friend and sometimes he doesn't. It's so confusing, so I'm really looking forward for his route.

Kate and El

Honestly, these two are made for each other. Both are jealous possessive types that keeps asking each other if they were thinking about each other while they were apart. There are only some cute moments here and there, like El staring at Kate so he could get into her heart and also making sure that she only looks at him and only thinks about him and also grabs her face and makes it turn to look at him and also asking to look only at him lol. It's a funny scene I liked it. But most of his route is full of sadness and sadness and .....lots of sadness. You get my point.

Final thoughts

This post is really short but there is not much to talk about because I already spoiled you guys about El's past which is the major part of the story.

I wish the story was bit more exciting, at least the writers could have improved the ending of Jeffery after making me hate him so much. All in all it was a pretty meh experience. I still think Harry's route is the best one so far.

[archiveikemen]

Thank you for the many guides and translations. I downloaded Morganatic Idol because of you. :]

(Something i noticed in Elbert Greetia's walkthrough: i think in blind love route chapter 21 the + 4 / + 4 option is the second one not the first one)

you're welcome, i hope you enjoy the game^^

and OMG I'M SORRY TO EVERYONE I SCREWED OVER BECAUSE OF THE MISTAKE.... thanks for letting me know 🥲🥲

[kurishiri]

24 . . . alfons main story — blind love

꒰ ִ ֺ ⊹ @ 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!

— cw: violence and death.

—— Alfons’ POV ——

(Were I to die here, I could prevent yet another tragedy.)

But then, Kate’s face, so red as she pushed my back, popped into my mind.

(But, something like the heroine of a tragedy...)

(...hardly suits someone such as herself.)

If I were to disappear here——

I reckoned she would meet somebody whom she could love, and be loved, to the fullest, and reach for happiness.

And then, when she met her time, she would be surrounded by family, and with the memories she made with people who have loved her in her heart, she would close her eyes.

It would be a trite ending, one filled with warmth and peace that could never possibly become a play acted out upon the stage.

(When I think about how you’ll forget me, and someday meet that sort of ending...)

(To the point nothing else could hold a candle to it——)

Alfons: ——I can’t even bear the thought of such a thing happening.

Lord Goa: ...What?

(No matter how much we loved each other, were I to lose my life here, at this very moment——)

(Those happy days would become an illusion, and she would succumb to despair.)

I knew that, and yet I still wanted to leave my mark on her.

One so deep, it could never disappear.

(With this happiness, so dangerous it could someday turn into despair——)

(I want to drive your life to the brink of madness.)

At some point, beyond what I had expected, I had found myself wishing strongly for such a thing.

The desire to inflict wounds was a far cry from feelings like kindness and affection,

——For now, at least, perhaps calling it ‘love’ may suffice.

Alfons: Goodness gracious... Miss Kate, the things you do to me,

A: making me carry this hassle of a burden... I will have to see to it that you take full responsibility for this.

A: Would you not agree?

Lord Goa: ...What you’re saying is beyond me. Are you sure you haven’t gone crazy?

Alfons: Oh, hardly. At the very least, between the two of us I am the lesser crazy one.

Reading my opponent’s moves, the moment I blinked, I unconsciously drew out my saber.

With the dance steps taught by the instructors at the Greetia household, I maneuvered around behind him.

Lord Goa: ...!

While in a state of confusion, the cold blade was already against the elder’s throat.

And the guards, afraid to hit their patron, were unable to pull the trigger, instead simply pointing their guns this way.

(Yes, that’s right, what good boys you are.)

His own fate was on a thin line,

Lord Goa spoke, seemingly to finally realize that he was being tried for judgment.

Lord Goa: ...W-what do you want from me... just... spit it out...

Alfons: Ahha! I’m sure you are well aware we are an assassination organization, no?

A: And when a member of such a group goes out of their way to come meet you, what else would they want——but your life?

Lord Goa: ...!?

(I didn’t pull out my saber just to egg them on to attack at this point.)

But as it would seem——

For just a little bit longer, I wanted to act out this commonplace tragedy, no matter when and where it ended.

—— Time skip ——

Elbert: ...Good work, Al.

Roger: Jeez... you didn’t hold back at all again, did you?

Alfons: I got a tad carried away, hence this messy killing scene.

Five minutes later, Elbert and Roger opened the door, to be met with several men who now looked more like lumps of flesh collapsed on the ground.

In the center was a single elder——Lord Goa was looking upward, an unnatural excitement riddling his expression,

and Alfons looked on at the scene with amusement.

Roger: And what about him? Why didn’t you kill him?

Roger chinpointed at Lord Goa, who had lost every ounce of sanity.

Alfons: Well, see, isn’t just killing him and calling it the end of that nothing short of a bore?

A: I made sure this was allowed as well, ‘as long as the organization ultimately met their downfall...’

A: So, I figured if that was the case, why not spend the rest of life mad?

Lord Goa: The cosmic god has manifested! We are all mere slaves to it.

Lord Goa: That’s why a sacrifice was necessary... yes, that’s right, I must let everyone else know!

Lord Goa didn’t even spare Alfons and the others a glance as he bolted out of the room, his expression filled with madness.

Roger: What in the world did you input in that guy...

Alfons: “The massacres in the East End is a ceremony to offer sacrifices to the cosmic god,”

A: “And the fact that you perpetrated it is an honor praised by all of mankind, who are slaves to this god.”

A: “Thereafter you must announce to the rest of the attendees of the dinner party this truth!”

With theatrical gestures as though he were in a play, Alfons recited the illusion he had shown Lord Goa.

Roger: I see now... so while making him confess to the string of incidents, you wanted to make the others involved think the old man’s gone bonkers.

Elbert: ...And if they see that, the lesser congressmen who were faithful followers will cut ties.

Roger: The old man’ll probably find himself behind bars or at a psych ward.

R: Even if the members of the ‘purification’ club wanted to continue what they were doing,

R: If they are regarded as that old man’s followers, it would get in the way. ...So they’ve got no choice but to lay low, basically.

Alfons: That’s the gist, yes.

Roger: That said, you can really spin these wild horror narratives, huh?

Alfons: Like the back of my hand, indeed.

Alfons’ smile deepened, his hand on his chest.

Roger: Well, glad you’re safe and sound.

Alfons: I hope you can accept my sincere apologies for having stolen your job though.

Roger: Nah, it’s no big deal. I was able to hear something good myself.

Alfons: And what might that ‘good’ something be?

Roger: That you thought of me as a ‘skilled doctor,’ yeah?

Alfons: ...I was just playing with words. Don’t let it get to your head.

Roger: Ho-oh? I did think this before, but I’m pretty sure from your reaction just now, it was genuine.

Alfons: Well, the respect I hold for your optimism is, indeed, genuine through and through.

As this meaningless conversation blossomed...

A low, calm voice murmured.

Elbert: ...Al.

Alfons: Yes?

Elbert: Was there that ‘wonderful thing’ in you...?

Alfons: ...

—— Flashback ——

Alfons: Hence, I would like to use this as a test.

A: One to see if the thing called love really is within me.

A: And whether it is such a wonderful thing that can make me want to cling onto this greed and live.

—— End flashback ——

Alfons: ...Not at all.

A: But——if we are talking about a troublesome replacement so awful I can hardly bear it... then yes, I do have that.

Elbert: ...I see.

I wanted to make a mess out of her, to the point it hurt her so much that she could never recover from it.

It would be a far cry to say this feeling was the same as whatever she was pouring into me, but

——That very thing was, without a doubt, there within me.

—— Kate’s POV ——

(I wonder if Alfons is alright... is he hurt anywhere?)

In the carriage, I was fidgeting the entire time as I awaited his return.

(...Maybe, like this, from here on out...)

(Many more nights may pass with worry while waiting for Alfons.)

But, even so... I wanted to believe that he would surely return.

As long as he had a place in my mind——and, if possible, forevermore.

When I clasped my hands together as though in prayer... I heard several footsteps.

(...Could it be?)

With trembling fingertips, I opened the curtain that covered the carriage window just a little and peeked outside.

(Ah——)

And the moment I found that figure, I opened the door and burst outside.

Kate: ...Welcome back! You’re not hurt anywhere, are you...?

Alfons: ......... ( : ౦ ‸ ౦ : )

Having been walking ahead, his raven hair wavered as he blinked.

Kate: Ah, wait. You don’t have to answer me. I can’t have you dodging my questions yet again.

K: I’ll be checking over your body, head to toe.

K: So take off your coat.

When I extended my hands to his clothes, all of a sudden Alfons burst out laughing.

Alfons: ...hehe.

Kate: ...? What is it...?

Alfons: No, it’s just... hehe, sorry, I... pfft, ahaha!

Kate: Wh—what’s going on!? Is something funny...?

Alfons: Haa... no, it’s just I was very much looking forward to what sort of naughty face I’d be greeted with...

A: ...only to be met with such a wholesome expression, about to be stripped without a shred of sexiness to be seen.

A: ...So, I suppose it’s just a bit anticlimactic, or funny, perhaps.

Kate: N.. ‘naughty face,’ you say——

—— Flashback ——

Kate: When you come back, I will give you a service you won’t forget.

Alfons: ...Come again?

Kate: I... I mean...

K: Weren’t you the one... who said ‘since I’ve made you hold back, I will have to compensate with a service to make up for it?’

Alfons: ...I see now. Indeed, it would seem like I’m left with no choice but to return, yes?

—— End flashback ——

As I remembered my words I had sent him off with, blood rushed to my face.

Alfons: Ah, I see you remembered?

A: Do give me that very service, okay?

Kate: !?

His whispers in my ear made my mind imagine many naughty scenarios,

even though, just before, I had gone pale worrying over his life.

Elbert: Service...? ∑(O_O)

Roger: Ho-oh? So the lil lady made such a promise, huh.

R: You’ve been tainted by Al quite a bit.

Kate: N-no, that’s... that’s not it, I think——

Liam: Oh, what’s this what’s this? Who tainted who?

Ellis: Your face is pretty red, Kate. Are you okay?

Kate: Ah, uhm...

I felt flustered with everyone on my case at the same time with curiosity on their faces.

Alfons: Well now, I do find myself ever uncertain on how to answer. ...Isn’t that right, Kate?

Kate: ...!

Indeed, Alfons was indeed this type of person.

—— Flashback ——

Harrison: Oh, what, so you already made a move on her, Al.

Alfons: Hehe, I do find myself ever uncertain on how to answer. ...Isn’t that right, Miss Kate?

—— End flashback ——

Ever since the day he first showed me an illusion that he was my ‘lover’ and spent the night with me, it had always been that way.

(Whenever he opens his mouth, nothing good comes out of it.)

(He played with my sincere feelings, making them spin upon the palm of his hand,)

(all the while keeping his true feelings to himself.)

One word was more than enough to make a mess out of my mind, and it would fill to the brim with thoughts of him.

But, in spite of all that——

He would take a space in my mind, driving away my pain and sadness,

and he was the fool of a man who showed me comfortable dreams, and then tried to disappear like that.

Indeed——that was the ‘truth’ of yours that I had come to so deeply love.

Kate: ...

Pulling on the lapels of his coat, I pulled Alfons in and pressed my lips against his.

Elbert & Roger: ... (□_□)

Liam: Wowie... (O.O)

Alfons: ... (O_O)

Kate: ...I’ve been tainted so much by you, I end up doing things like this.

Just as he wanted to leave marks on me, I, too, wanted to leave mine on Alfons.

Well, such a thing probably couldn’t even hold a candle to whatever he had carved in me.

Kate: And from now on... you’ll go on to taint me even more, won’t you?

My eyes filled with embarrassment, I shot a glare at him, to which he responded with an exasperated-looking smile.

Alfons: ...You truly are a fool, aren’t you.

A: If the picture from here on out turns out awful and you end up regretting it, it won’t be on me then.

[1] Even if it does, I won’t regret it.

[2] Who can say how it’ll turn out? (+4 / +4)

[3] Mixing the colors of that picture is what makes it beautiful.

Kate: But, who can say how it’ll turn out? Nobody knows.

K: Of course, the colors may end up becoming a mess,

K: but, it could also become something very beautiful, like a mosaic painting or stained glass.

Alfons: If said picture does turn out that way... I would very much like to lay my eyes on such a scene.

However many times, I will claw my way to his heart, and leave many marks,

because he was neither an illusion nor a mirage——right now, he was here before me.

——Or so I say.

Kate: ...

Now that I was before the door to his room, I felt my heart was going to break.

(I know I said I was going to give him a service he’d never forget, but that doesn’t mean I thought about what that entailed...!)

Unable to look at Alfons, who was standing beside me, I ended up staring at the door without much intention.

(Besides, Alfons seems like the type to have done a lot of different types of role play and whatnot up until now...)

(So what if he’s disappointed like, ‘That’s all you’ve got?’... then what should I do?)

Such thoughts spun in my mind.

Alfons: ...hehe.

Hearing his stifled laugh made my shoulders jump.

And when I slowly turned to look beside me, he was looking at me as though he were looking at something positively amusing.

It was like he had laid his eyes on a cat who got tangled in a ball of yarn.

Alfons: For someone who had so passionately come at me about ‘wanting to do things that feel good’ while drinking at the pub,

A: you’re quite meek today, no?

Kate: ...Um... well, at that time, I was drunk...

Alfons: So that was the influence from the liquor?

Kate: No, that’s not it...

K: Even when I got rejected, I couldn’t get rid of my feelings for you... no matter what I did...

The more I spoke, the more it seemed my limbs were getting more tangled in yarn.

Alfons: But now such is not the case, and so you cannot bring yourself to be that bold, yes?

A: It’s a story you could find anywhere else, isn’t it? One where all the passion poofs when all the obstacles are gone.

Kate: N-no, that’s not it! In fact, I like you even more than I ever did then...!

Alfons: Is that so?

His sensually beautiful smile filled my entire vision.

Kate: Ah...!

By the time I realized he had wheedled me into saying something embarrassing yet again, I found myself trapped in his arms——

Alfons: Well then... do tell me more about that, why don’t you.

With the hand that was behind his back, he opened the door, and while holding me, he invited me to his room like he was dancing.

(Ah...)

His fragrance became more prominent then.

The moment I felt that, my body felt hot.

Alfons: You won’t say something like how you’ll hold back tonight, will you?

to be continued…

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Elbert Greetia: Chapter 20

Chapter 19 Premium Story

♡———♡

--I found myself standing in the shallows.

The sun was sinking into the distant horizon, and my body was rapidly growing cold.

Kate: Lord Elbert...

Elbert: Kate...

I turned to see her smiling, and we embraced each other without a word.

The moment I felt her warmth, an indescribable happiness filled my chest.

But then...

Kate: Ah... Lord Elbert, the waves...

Elbert: ...!

A large wave crashed nearby, spraying us with water and chilling our bodies that had just been warmed.

The waves that had been playing around our ankles had risen up to our chests before we knew it.

(We need to get back to the shore, quickly.)

I tried to move my legs while holding her, but they wouldn't budge.

I looked down and saw a needle stuck in my foot.

A familiar needle... the one I used to pin butterflies to their backs when making specimens.

Kate: Lord Elbert...

Kate's terribly sad eyes pierced my heart like a needle.

(--You have to go back to the shore.)

(--I won't let go of your hand.)

I tried to say it, but the words caught in my throat.

Elbert: --...

The water had already risen to her throat... but she clung to my chest, refusing to let go.

(Kate--)

Before I knew it, the water was far above my head.

It's hard to breathe. I can't even breathe.

And yet-

-My arms are still holding her tight...

I can't seem to let go.

-

Kate: Lord Elbert...!

Elbert: Ha... ha... ...?

Elbert finally woke up, breathing heavily in bed, and looked at me in his arms with a confused expression.

Elbert: ... I was... asleep...?

Kate: Yes. You were having a terrible nightmare...

We had made love as if melting into each other, and before we knew it, we had fallen into a happy slumber - I had just woken up in Elbert's arms, hearing his pained voice.

Kate: Are you alright?

Elbert: ...

Elbert remained silent, tightening his arms around me.

(I wonder if he had a scary dream...)

I put my arms around his back and gently stroked it to calm him down.

Elbert's breathing gradually became calmer.

Elbert: You...

Elbert: I had a dream that I was dragging you down to the bottom of the sea.

Kate: ...The bottom of the sea?

Elbert's shoulders were trembling as if he were enduring the cold.

Elbert: ...I was crucified at the bottom of the sea, unable to move.

Elbert: I knew you would drown if I held you... but I couldn't let go.

Elbert: You...wouldn't let go of me either.

Elbert: ...It was very scary.

The arms holding me tighten, almost painfully so.

Kate: ...Lord Elbert...

For Elbert, "himself" was someone who brought sadness and death to those he cared about simply by existing, and "happy days" were fragile and fleeting things that could be broken by the slightest trigger.

(That's why... he has nightmares about happiness being destroyed...)

I tighten my arms around his back, wanting to heal the wounds that the dream has opened up, even if just a little.

Elbert: ...I feel like I'm taking everything away from you.

Elbert: The warm happiness, the untroubled future... everything you were supposed to have.

Elbert: The thought of hurting you again... and making you sad... makes me feel like I'm going crazy, but...

Elbert: I...

Elbert: I would rather drown with you than let you go back to the shore.

Kate: ...!

Elbert: I was happy that you wouldn't leave me and would sink to the bottom of the sea with me.

Elbert: I was so scared of myself for thinking that.

(...Oh, what should I do?)

(Elbert is suffering so much.)

I'm tormented by guilt and fear, but the fact that Elbert wants me so much...

(...It makes me so happy.)

Kate: There may be sadness and hurt in the future...

Kate: But even so, I... I want to be with you, Lord Elbert.

Kate: Besides... if we're together...

Kate: I feel like we'll encounter more happiness than sadness.

Elbert: ...Is that so?

Kate: Yes, it is. Because even now...

Kate: I'm so happy and glad that you're holding me so tightly that it hurts.

Elbert: ...

Elbert: ...Me too.

Elbert: I want to be... strong like you.

Elbert: So I can make you happy. ...So you won't go anywhere.

His whispers were like prayers, and my chest overflowed with love.

(Guilt will surely follow us forever.)

(Just like my heart still aches when I think of Daisy...)

(But still, what can I do to keep Elbert from being swallowed by nightmares?)

Just then, Elbert's stomach growled cutely.

Elbert and Kate: ...Are you hungry? / ...Are you hungry?

(Huh?)

Kate: ...That was you, Lord Elbert, right?

Elbert: ...Me?

Elbert blinked his long, bisque doll-like eyelashes and looked down at his stomach in wonder.

Elbert: ...I, see.

Elbert: ...I'm sorry... It's been so long since I've felt it, I didn't recognize it.

Elbert shyly averted his gaze.

(H-How cute...)

His rare gesture made me feel a childish innocence, and a sweet ache in the depths of my chest.

(But, it's been a while since he's felt hungry...)

I felt a pang of sadness, sensing the weight of the suffering he had endured until now, but more than that, I was happy about the change in Elbert.

Kate: I'll get you something to eat.

Elbert: ... I'll go.

Kate: No, patients need to stay in bed. Is there anything you'd like to eat?

Elbert: ... An apple.

Kate: Hehe... Okay.

Kate: Oh, but... I'll check with Roger first to make sure it's okay for you to eat it.

Elbert: Roger...?

Kate: Your mouth and throat might be injured... He might need to grate it or do something else to it.

Elbert: ..............

(Roger was supposed to be taking a nap on the first floor...)

As I got out of bed and got dressed, I suddenly realized something.

(Come to think of it, I think Roger said his ability was that he had really good hearing...)

(Just now, my voice...)

As I tied the ribbon behind my neck, I recalled the memories of when we were making love.

We were so desperate for each other that we couldn't think of anything else.

(I don't know what kind of face to make when I talk to him...)

As I fastened the belt of my skirt, I thought about it over and over again.

Kate: Ah...!

An arm wrapped around my stomach from behind and pulled me into bed.

Kate: L-Lord Elbert...?

I stumbled and sat down on the edge of the bed, between Elbert's long, slender legs.

Elbert: ...I don't need to eat anything after all.

Kate: Huh? But you're hungry...

Elbert: I don't want you to leave.

Kate: ...What!?

Elbert: Stay here.

(...Could it be?)

(Is he jealous of Roger...?)

Elbert: ...No?

He buried his face in the nape of my neck, and my skin flushed hot.

Kate: No... It's not a no. But... Why?

Elbert: Because you're... so beautiful right now.

Elbert: I don't want to show you to anyone.

Elbert: If they see you, they'll want you.

Elbert: ...Like I do now.

His voice, tinged with a hint of sweetness, tickled my earlobe.

(Until now... even when Elbert told me he wanted me, I couldn't accept it honestly.)

(Because I couldn't respond to a hand extended to atone for a sin.)

(But from now on... when Elbert wants me,)

(It's all... for me and him to be happy.)

My chest felt hot, and I felt like I was losing the strength to resist his arms.

But I somehow managed to gather my wits and gently pushed his arm away from my waist.

Kate: I'm happy, Lord Elbert.

Kate: But... you still need to eat properly.

Elbert: .............

(Ugh...)

His eyes, like jewels that held the sea within them, stared at me intently, and my resolve wavered.

Kate: Lord Elbert... Please.

Elbert: ... No.

Kate: Ah...

Elbert brought his lips to the nape of my neck and sucked hard on my skin.

Kate: Mm...

A sweet pain shot through me, and a whimper escaped my lips.

Kate: L-Lord EElbert...

Elbert: ... What?

Kate: What.....Ah....

I felt a wet sensation, as if lips that had touched the nape of my neck again.

Hard teeth sweetly bit my skin, and the tip of his tongue caressed over it as a slight pain ran through me.

(On such a place, if you put so much on it...)

Kate: Ah, nnn... Lord Elbert, no...

Elbert: Nn...,...

Restraining my trembling body with both arms, Lord Elbert sucked my skin even harder.

--The sweet torture was stopped by a sudden knock.

(...!?)

Without hesitation, the door to the room opened.

Alfons: Excuse me, was I interrupting a moment of love?

Alfons: Just kidding, I knew you were in here.

Elbert: Al...?

Kate: Alfons...!

Alfons: It seems you've cheated death, El. That's great.

Kate: Where have you been?

I asked without thinking, forgetting the current situation.

He had disappeared somewhere while Elbert was on the brink of death.

Alfons: Does it matter where I was? I didn't want to see Elbert die.

Kate: Why not...?

Alfons: ...Because I might have been glad he died before me, and I didn't want to feel that way.

( ...What does that mean?)

Elbert: ...Welcome back, Al.

Elbert greeted Alfons in his usual manner.

Perhaps they both understood the true intentions hidden deep within each other.

Alfons: Anyway, you seem to be having fun. Let me join in.

Kate: Join in...?

I was momentarily confused by his sudden remark.

Elbert: ...................

Kate: Hmm...?

Elbert sucked on my neck forcefully, as if to show off.

Kate: L-Lord Elbert...!

(In front of Alfons...!)

Elbert: ...You can't, Al.

Alfons: ……Hehe, I won't take it. I've never taken your toy, have I?

Alfons: I said, "Let me join in," not "Lend it to me." I just want to play together sometimes.

Alfons: ……It seems like the only thing that's changed is that you're confining her in your arms instead of that room.

Elbert: ..............

Seeing Alfons shrug with a "Well, well," Elbert reluctantly released his arms from my body.

Elbert: ……Don't hide the marks.

Elbert: Stay at least three steps away from Roger when you talk to him.

Even without looking in the mirror, I know there must be many crimson ownership marks on the nape of my neck.

Elbert stared intently at me.

The depths of my body trembled under his gaze, a thick mixture of anxiety, possessiveness, and lust.

Kate: Yes, I will……

Elbert: ……Hmm.

-

Alfons opened the door for me, and I slipped past him, leaving the room behind.

(So many kiss marks... and then he tells me to stay three steps away.)

The affection he directs towards me might be... much more intense and heavy than I realize.

(...What should I do?)

(My face is burning... my chest feels tight.)

The intense affection directed at him, who still carries an unhealed heart, feels somewhat precarious, like something I shouldn't simply be happy about.

(...More.)

(I want to be desired by Elbert.)

I wanted to be captured once more by the arms I had just escaped from.

-

After watching Kate leave.

Elbert: ...Al...

Elbert collapsed onto the bed, muttering softly.

Elbert: Thank you for getting Kate out of that room...

Alfons: ...What are you talking about? It's not unusual for me to take things from that room without permission.

Alfons twisted his lips and shrugged, his eyes following the door Kate had exited.

Alfons: But... what a terrible obsession, wouldn't you say?

Elbert: ...I know....But I can't stop myself.

Elbert: Her voice, her breath, her gaze, everything... I don't want to give any of it to anyone else.

Elbert: I want all of her.

Alfons: If anything happens to Kate because of you, you probably won't survive, you know.

Elbert: ......Yeah.

Elbert: It's okay... I won't let that happen.

Elbert: I'll protect her. So she won't get hurt, so she won't be sad...

Elbert: Always, carefully, carefully...

After waiting for Elbert's condition to recover, we returned to Crown Castle.

-

Victor: Ah! Welcome back, my beloved cursed ones, and Kate!

Victor: Elbert, I'm so glad you're safe!

Elbert: Ugh...

William: Victor, Elbert's suffocating, let him go.

Victor: Ah, sorry, sorry!

Victor quickly released Elbert from his tight embrace.

Victor wasn't the only one happy about Elbert's safe return.

William: You look good for someone who was poisoned, Elbert.

Elbert: ...I'm sorry about that time. Thank you for coming to help.

William: If you want to thank someone, thank Roger, who treated you.

Roger: Yeah, I've already been thanked, so don't worry about it.

Elbert: ...? Did you give him something?

Roger: Clinical data on the effects of monkshood poison on cursed and normal humans, and the recovery process.

Roger: This will help advance research on the cursed. Thanks for your hard work.

Kate: ...

(Well, that's certainly a doctor-like way of thinking...)

I'm a little taken aback by his overly calm approach.

Alfons: That's just how he is, Kate.

Alfons: The kind of guy who thinks about how many more milliliters of poison it would take to kill someone while his friend is on the verge of death.

Roger: Hey, hey, don't say such dangerous things. It's more like, how many milliliters can he take before he dies.

(Roger is... more of an egoist than I thought...)

Ellis: El, are you in pain anywhere? Do you still feel sick?

Elbert: ...No. Thank you.

Ellis: That's good...

Ellis: ...You look much happier than when you left the castle.

Elbert: ......

Elbert's eyes blink at Ellis' words.

(Other people can see it too.)

(...I'm kind of happy.)

I can't help but smile, and it seems Elbert feels the same way.

Elbert: ...Maybe so.

Ellis: .....

Harrison: ......Huh.

Liam: Aha, El smiled. What's up? Is it the power of Kate's love?

Jude: Tch... How long are ya gonna' keep up this touchin' reunion?

Roger: If you're jealous, you can hug him too.

Jude: I'll beat you up.

Victor: Jude's patience for the buddy-buddy time seems to be running out, so let's get down to business!

Victor's mention of "business" reminds me of Gabriel, who was left behind on the ship.

Kate: By business, you mean... the Bernard Trading Company?

Victor: You guessed it. As for what happened to them...

Gabriel Bernard was condemned by William that night.

Victor continued, saying that they had also succeeded in obtaining information about politicians from various countries who were secretly connected to the Bernard Trading Company, and that they would also be punished accordingly.

William: From now on, we will identify the most malicious individuals from the customer list and punish them ourselves.

Kate: ...I understand. Thank you for telling me.

Victor: Also... it's almost been a month since Kate became a Fairytale Keeper.

Kate: ...!

(That's right... It's already been a month.)

I'm here because of the contract I made to avoid being killed and to return to my normal life.

Victor: So far, you've kept the secret well.

Victor: If you keep this up, I can offer you the option to return to your normal life.

Victor: Tell me what you want to do when the promised day comes.

Kate: ...Yes, I understand.

I accepted, but my mind was already made up.

(I can't go back to who I was when I first made the contract...)

(No matter what sad sights or dangers I face from now on)

(I want to stay by Elbert's side.)

Elbert: ...............

I smile at Elbert to reassure him as I meet his gaze.

--At this time, I didn't know yet.

That my presence by his side would deepen his sins even further--.

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Blind Love Chapter 21 | Mad Love Chapter 21

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Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Chapter 24 Premium Story

Blind Love Chapter 24

♡———♡

The mansion, now empty, was enveloped in silence.

(Being here always brings back memories...)

The shock I felt when I first stepped foot in this place is still unforgettable.

(How much pain did Lord Elbert overcome in this room?)

The more I think about it, the stronger the pain that pierces my heart.

Elbert: ...Kate. What's wrong?

Kate: Lord Elbert...

Lord Elbert looked at me, frozen in place, with a serious expression.

Elbert: ...Come here.

As invited, I sit down next to him on the bed where he is sitting.

Elbert: Why do you look so sad?

Kate: I was thinking about... the nights you went through in this room.

(The timing of our meeting can never be changed.)

(I can't help but wish we had met sooner...)

Kate: ...I'm glad I met you.

Kate: I'm glad we're together now...

Elbert: ...Oh no.

Kate: Huh? ...What's wrong?

Elbert: I just said I would shield your eyes from anything that makes you sad.

Elbert: But I can't erase your memories, and I can't change my past...

Lord Elbert mutters, as if at a loss.

His bewilderment is overflowing with innocent earnestness, like a child seriously worrying about not being able to change the blue sky to pink—

Elbert: Maybe I should just rebuild the mansion... so you won't remember.

I blink my eyes rapidly, then burst into laughter.

Kate: Hehe... ahaha.

Elbert: ...? Why are you laughing?

Kate: S-sorry... Hehe.

(I'm happy that you are trying so hard... to love me.)

Kate: We'll be okay. Your past, my memories... they can't bind us forever.

Kate: If I can be with you like this now... everything else is just a bonus to our happiness.

I lean my head gently on Lord Elbert's shoulder, hoping my feelings will be conveyed.

Elbert: ...Thank you.

Elbert: Let's decorate the scenery that brings you sad memories with happy ones.

Kate: And the scenery that makes you sad too. Let's fill it up with happy memories.

Elbert: ...Kate.

His voice, uttered softly, is hot, and I raise my face as if invited.

Lord Elbert's fingertips trace my lips, and the sensation makes my skin tingle.

Elbert: You being here, smiling by my side... Do you know how happy it makes me?

Elbert: Do you know...?

Kate: Mm...

Her soft moan is swallowed by his breath.

They kiss again and again, their bodies sinking into the bed, the creaking sound echoing through the room.

Elbert: When you smile, it makes me so happy I feel like I'm going crazy.

Kate: Ah... Lord Elbert...

Elbert: When I touch you... When I hear your voice...

Elbert: It makes me even crazier...

Unstoppable desire poured into my ears and lit a fire deep inside my body.

Elbert: Teach me more... about happiness.

Elbert: I want to be... one with you..

Kate: I want to be one with... you too.... ah--

His lips and tongue crawled along my ears as if licking sweet candy.

As he traced his lips from my earlobe to my neck, Elbert looked up at me and pulled my blouse down.

Kate: Nn...hm...

I undo the ribbon behind my neck and pull my blouse down, revealing my shoulders and chest.

Elbert: ....Take this off too.

Elbert: Show me everything.

Kate: Ah...ah, hmm...!

While caressing the tips of my breasts with his shapely lips, Elbert pulled up my skirt.

He removes the clasp and then my underwear, leaving me in my natural state. Elbert takes my fingertips into his mouth and twirled his wet, hot tongue around them.

Elbert: Nnn....

Kate: Ah.. Lord Elbert... ah, ah....

Elbert's tongue's warmth fills my nails, my fingertips, my joints.

It's as if we're truly becoming one - a sweet shiver runs through me.

Kate: Nn... Ah...

I couldn't help but to rub my thighs together in frustrated caresses.

Elbert stared at me, making a sucking sound, pulls my fingertips out of his mouth, and begins to caress my whole body with his lips and tongue.

Kate: Ah.... ah.... L-Lord Elbert...

Elbert: Mm....Ha.

His well-formed lips nibble at the soft spots of my chest, stomach, and limbs, his tongue scooping up the nectar that was overflowing from my body, as if trying to swallow it all.

Kate: Ah....ah! no....

Elbert: .....Don't run away.

Elbert: Tell me everything that feels good... and everything that makes you come...

When he begs me like that, I can't resist, and my hands do nothing but scratch the sheets and stir in his golden hair.

Occasionally, he would faintly brush his teeth against me, and each time he does, my body jumps.

The abnormal love and attachment he pours into my whole body--it felt so good that I felt like I was going crazy.

(I'm going to...)

(It feels like I'm going to be eaten up)

Kate: Hah, ah, ahh---

He was swallowing me deep, so deep that the sweet pleasure seemed to slowly eat away at me, with no end in sight.

Elbert: ....Kate....look at me.

Kate: ....Huh?

Through the tears that had sprung from the caressing that almost drove me crazy, Elbert was staring at me with an ecstatic expression--

(Ah--)

Elbert: Beautiful---

Kate: .....ah--

Elbert whispers the same words I felt in my heart and enters me.

He presses his skin against mine as if to erase any boundaries, and fills me to the deepest depths.

Elbert: Haa... Kate... Are you alright...?

Elbert's fingertips gently wiped the sweat from my forehead.

Kate: ...It hurts...

Kate: I'm so happy, my chest hurts...

I was so happy, so happy, my chest ached.

Elbert: Me too...

Elbert laughed, his voice strained with pain.

Elbert: ...Let's hurt together, even more.

Kate: Yes... Ah...

And then, I fell into the happiest sleep of my life...

-

When I came to, I was standing on a beach at dusk.

Looking down, I saw that a thumbtack was still stuck in my foot.

But strangely... there was no anxiety, no impatience.

Kate: Lord Elbert.

Elbert: ...Kate.

Kate smiled faintly at me, holding my hand beside me.

The waves lapped at my feet - and just like in the dream I had before, the waves engulfed me.

I didn't resist, sinking into the cold depths.

Someone tugged my hand, and I turned to Kate beside me, and warm lips kissed me...

(Ah... I see.)

(With you...)

(I can breathe, even in the depths of sorrow.)

It was as if there was no water, and my breathing became easier.

(Kate)

You give me breath.

The only person who gives me happiness.

Everything about her was so dear to me, my heart ached with longing.

(I want you, Kate.)

(I want you to stay by my side forever.)

(I want you to smile.)

Suddenly, the scenery of the sea changed.

It was a very familiar sight.

Cecilia: ...You picked flowers for me again.

Cecilia: They're beautiful... Thank you, Elbert.

My mother was still looking at me with the same look she would give a caterpillar, which she disliked...

-

By the time he woke up, the sun was high in the sky.

Elbert: ...Nn...

A while after I woke up, Elbert's eyelids fluttered slightly, and his clear blue eyes opened.

(They're so beautiful, no matter how many times I see them...)

Kate: Good morning, Lord Elbert.

Elbert: Kate... Good morning.

Kate: ...Even though it's already noon.

Elbert: Noon...?

Lord Elbert checked his watch and blinked.

Elbert: ...This might be the first time in my life I've slept in this late.

Kate: Hehe...That's a good thing.

Kate: Did you have any dreams?

I asked, a little worried.

Elbert: ...I did.

Kate: Eh?

Suddenly, he leaned over me and pinned me to the bed.

Elbert gave my surprised nose a cute little kiss.

Elbert: I had a good dream...

Elbert: A dream where you and I were sinking to the bottom of the water.

Kate: ....!

That was supposed to be a nightmare that once tormented Lord Elbert.

Kate: Was that...a "good dream"?

Elbert: Yes...

Elbert: You kissed me and I could breathe. That's why...it was a good dream.

Kate: ....!

Elbert: And then...I remembered something.

Kate: ...What is it?

Elbert: When my mother looked at me, she was very scared.

Elbert: But her lips...she was desperately trying to smile.

Elbert: Even though she must have been terribly hurt, she was trying to smile back.

Elbert: I wanted to remember that. Even if it hurts my chest every time I remember.

Kate: Lord Elbert...

A memory locked away deep in my heart opened up.

*flashback*

Kate: ...No...I don't want to forget.

Kate: Daisy smiled in front of us.

(Even though she was hurt, she hid it and smiled...)

(I think that was the kindness Daisy gave us.)

Kate: It might hurt every time I remember,

Kate: But I want to cherish the fact that she chose to stay with us even though she was hurt.

Elbert: ...I see...

Elbert: You're both strong and kind...you and Daisy.

*flashback over*

Elbert looked at me, probably remembering the same memory.

Elbert: I want to be strong and kind...even if it's just an imitation, like you.

Kate: ...But Lord Elbert, you are strong and kind.

Kate: You've been that way ever since we met...!

Elbert: ...Hehe.

Elbert: You're always so focused on other people. You've been that way ever since we met.

Elbert narrowed his eyes and touched his forehead to mine.

Elbert: I would be happy if I could swallow all the wonderful things about you and truly become one with you...

His ocean-colored eyes were so close that I felt like I could be sucked in.

The thought of being swallowed by him and blending into this blue made my heart race a little.

Kate: ...But then you wouldn't be able to hug me or kiss me, would you?

Elbert: ...

Elbert: ...I wouldn't like that.

Elbert buried his face in the crook of my neck, looking dejected.

Elbert: I want to hold you a lot and kiss you.

Kate: ...Me too.

His every gesture, his voice, his scent...everything about him was so dear to me.

I twined my fingers in his golden hair and held him close, cherishing his warmth.

.

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Blind Love Chapter 25

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Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Chapter 23

Blind Love Chapter 22

♡———♡

Before we got back to the castle, Alfons got off the carriage, saying he had business with a "friend," and disappeared into the London night, and Roger caught Jude at the castle entrance and went off to drink.

(...I have to go back to my room.)

I thought so, but maybe because I had spent the last few days in the same room as Elbert, I felt lonely.

(Ah... I'm already in front of my room.)

Kate: Well then, Lord Elbert...

I tried to say goodnight, but the words wouldn't come out.

Elbert was also silent, staring at me.

(Elbert...)

We both must be hoping for the same thing in our hearts.

Elbert: ...Saying goodnight to you... used to make me happy,

Elbert: But now... I don't want to hear those words here.

Kate: I... I didn't want to say it now either...

Elbert's hand cupped my cheek as if touching a treasure.

As if to trap me in his deep blue eyes.

Elbert: ...Come to my room, Kate.

Elbert: Sleep in my room. Say goodnight to me... in my bed.

My heart pounded.

I was happy that I no longer had to resist his possessiveness towards me.

Kate: ...Yes... Lord Elbert...

The words that spilled out were so sweetly seductive that I was surprised myself.

-

While waiting for the promised month to pass, I spent my days in my room compiling reports as a Fairytale Keeper, and my nights sleeping next to Elbert in his room, which was now a little less cluttered.

Elbert also seemed busy during the day, doing research, writing letters, and going out with Alfons.

-

One afternoon, a mountain of gift boxes was delivered to the entrance.

Kate: What's this?

(Is it a gift for someone...? It's a huge amount.)

William: Apparently, it's all for you.

Kate: For me...?

William: Here.

The card I received from William certainly had my name on it.

Kate: But I don't know who it could be from...

Liam: What's up, you two...? Whoa, that's a huge amount.

Harrison: It's been a while since I've seen this sight.

Kate: A while...?

Harrison: This kind of thing happened regularly before you came to the castle.

Liam: Back then, it wasn't presents, but jewels, stuffed animals, and suspicious antiques.

(Jewels, stuffed animals, antiques...)

Kate: Could it be... Lord Elbert?

All three of them nodded.

Kate: But... he said he was going to stop collecting beautiful things...

William: Maybe the purpose is different this time?

Liam: These are from a very famous dressmaker. Oh, and these shoes are the new ones I saw at the department store!

Harrison: This necklace kind of resembles the color of your eyes.

William: All the previous collections were addressed to Elbert, but this time they're all addressed to Kate.

Kate: ...All for me.

William: Even without using your powers of observation, it's obvious what the purpose of this collection is.

Alfons: Yawn... Oh my, everyone's here so early in the morning.

Kate: ...! Good morning, Alfons.

Alfons: Ah, I see... they arrived. Those things.

Alfons: I won't forget what happened yesterday...

Harrison: How could you forget what happened yesterday?

Liam: Haha, you're exaggerating.

Alfons: "Do you think this will make Kate smile...?" he asked me over and over again.

Alfons: Elbert was trying to buy everything without waiting for my answer.

Alfons: I desperately held back my laughter, thinking Kate's room would explode.

Harrison: You're laughing now.

Liam: You were definitely enjoying it.

Alfons: The result of that battle is this.

Kate: And this is the result of thinning it out... Thank you.

Alfons: You made me laugh enough to cover my commission, so no need for thanks.

Alfons looked at me and narrowed his eyes.

Alfons: ...For him now, seeing you smile must be the greatest happiness in the world.

Alfons: For that... he'll do anything.

His smile seemed to be mixed with a dark amusement, as if he was hiding some kind of scheme.

Kate: ...What do you mean?

Alfons: You'll understand eventually.

Alfons: Well, I'm going to sleep now. I'm tired from staying up all night.

Without revealing his hidden intentions, Alfons quickly returned to his room.

William: ...So, what are you going to do with this mountain of presents?

("The purpose is different this time...")

(These are all... to make me smile.)

It's not that I want a lot of dresses and shoes, and I don't like luxury.

(But if it's something Elbert put his heart into... I'd be happy with anything.)

(But this much is still a little too much...)

Kate: ...I'll take them all to my room.

Seeing my smile, William narrowed his eyes happily.

William: It looks like it's going to be a very lively room.

-

After all the presents were carried to my room and I thanked the maids who helped me, I knocked on Elbert's door as usual.

Kate: Lord Elbert, can I come in?

Elbert: ...Of course.

Elbert: ...Welcome back.

When I opened the door, Elbert greeted me.

My heart skipped a beat at the words directed at me with a happy smile.

("Welcome back"...)

Kate: ...I'm back.

Kate: It feels like this is my room.

Elbert: ...

Elbert: You can think that if you want.

Kate: ...!

Smiling even more happily, Elbert lightly spread his arms towards me while still sitting in his chair.

Elbert: ...Come here.

As I walked towards him, he suddenly pulled me in and I landed on his lap.

Kate: L-Lord Elbert?

Elbert: ...Don't run away.

His arms wrapped around my waist, trapping me.

Elbert: I wanted to wait until you were done concentrating on your report this afternoon, but...

Elbert: ...I missed you.

He nuzzled my hair against his cheek, and my chest tightened sweetly.

Kate: Even though we were together until this morning...?

Elbert: No matter how much time we spend together... there's never a moment when I don't want you.

I felt a shiver run down my skin as I felt his heavy possessiveness directed at me.

(--Elbert still has nightmares sometimes.)

Even if he let go of atonement, the guilt of being happy probably hasn't disappeared completely.

(But even so... he reaches out for happiness like this...)

(I want to respond with all of me...)

I also nuzzled my cheek against Elbert's soft golden hair.

Elbert's arms trembled, and his embrace tightened.

Kate: I received a lot of presents from you, Lord Elbert.

Elbert: ...!

Elbert: ...I'm sorry.

Elbert looked away slightly, embarrassed.

Kate: Why are you apologizing?

Elbert: Al warned me that you'd be troubled if I got you too much...

Elbert: ...But I ended up buying too much.

(Ah... he does have some self-awareness.)

Elbert: ...Did I trouble you?

His anxious question was so cute that I couldn't help but laugh.

Kate: Hehe... It did surprise me a little.

Kate: But I was much happier with your feelings, Lord Elbert.

Elbert: ...I see. ...That's good.

Kate: But if you send me this much every day, I won't have enough rooms, even if I had several.

Kate: From now on... please do it little by little.

Elbert: ...Little by little?

Kate: Yes, little by little.

Elbert: ...One a day?

Kate: ...Let's make it at least one a month.

Elbert: One... a month...

Elbert nodded, somehow lacking confidence.

Elbert: I'll try...

Elbert: But if it happens again like today... then... you can scold me.

Kate: Me scolding you, Lord Elbert...?

Elbert: Yes.

Kate: Can I do it...?

Elbert: ...Try.

Kate: Huh? Uhh...um...

I furrowed my brow and tried to make a stern face.

Kate: N...No, Lord Elbert.

Kate: Just being by your side is enough happiness for me, so I don't need that many things.

Elbert: .............

Kate: ... Something like that, maybe?

Elbert: ...Hehe, no good. Cute.

Kate: Huh...?

Elbert: Cute...I might do it again on purpose just to be scolded by you.

Kate: N...No, really.

Being called cute, my face heats up.

Lord Elbert happily narrowed his eyes and buried his face in the nape of my neck.

Elbert: When I'm with you...I want more and more things, it's troubling.

Elbert: I want everything that will make you happy.

Elbert: I want to see all the expressions on your face that I haven't seen yet...

Kate: ...You'll see a lot from now on.

Kate: Because I intend to be with you from now on, Lord Elbert.

Elbert: ...........

Elbert laughed, but there was a hint of pain in his expression.

Kate: Lord Elbert...?

Elbert: I truly believed that you didn't belong here, that you shouldn't have come to this place...

Elbert: But now, hearing you say that you'll stay with me in this darkness... it makes me so happy.

Even now, after everything that's happened, I still believe that you, Elbert, are too good for sin.

Kate: As long as I'm by your side, I'm not afraid of any darkness.

Kate: No matter how sinful the sights I encounter in the future...

Kate: I won't regret a thing.

Kate: So, please don't worry about it.

Elbert: ... Mm.

Elbert smiled happily and kissed my lips.

I closed my eyes, intoxicated by the sweet sensation.

Our kiss, never breaking once, deepened gradually., and as my body melted from the inside out, Elbert whispered to me.

Elbert: I... I want to be happy with you.

Elbert: And I'll do whatever it takes to make that happen.

Elbert: I'll make sure that anything that hurts you or makes you sad... disappears from this world.

(Anything....)

I recall Alfons saying something similar.

It didn't seem like he said it simply meaning he wouldn't mind collecting many presents.

--Now, I feel the same uneasiness from Elbert that I felt back then.

Elbert: ... I've decided to return to the mansion once. At that time, I will dismiss the servants.

Kate: Dismiss... You mean, fire them?

Elbert: Yes--

Elbert: You always looked sad in that mansion.

Elbert: That is my mansion. I don't want to keep anything that makes my precious person sad.

Elbert: ... I want to collect and keep only things that make you happy.

(The people in that mansion... especially Jeffrey...)

(They have been eroding Elbert's body and heart for many years.)

The terrifying memories of the auction night come flooding back.

*flashback*

Kate: ... Are you saying someone offered to capture me?

Man of the Company: Yeah, we got a request saying, "We'll pay you a high reward if you sell her off."

Man of the Company: --From the head butler of the Count Greetia's household.

*flashback over*

(...I didn't tell Elbert that it was Jeffrey who requested my kidnapping from the company.)

Immediately after being rescued, I was caught up in a situation where I couldn't tell him, and it remains unsaid.

(But, if we can dismiss Jeffrey and cut ties with him like this...)

(I feel it's okay if he doesn't know.)

(If I told him, Elbert would surely blame himself for involving Jeffrey and me, and be hurt...)

Elbert: --I also know that Jeffrey had you attacked.

Kate: ...!

A chill ran down my spine.

Kate: You knew...

Elbert: ...Yes. I saw the list of clients.

Elbert's expression didn't show the pain or sadness I was worried about, but only--the same cold killing intent I felt when Elbert killed the man from the company on the night of the auction, like something crawling out from the bottom of the water.

(And it's much more than that time,)

(Less hesitation, deeper, and denser--)

Elbert: I want to be happy with you.

Elbert: That's why... those who try to take away that happiness...

Elbert: I can't allow it.

When I was staying at the mansion before, I didn't feel any hostility from Elbert towards Jeffrey, despite the fact that he had been hurt for so long.

And yet, now a sharpened hostility is clearly directed towards him.

(Elbert... maybe.)

(Jeffrey...)

A premonition of some decisive event happening makes my heart stir.

But in my heart, along with fear and anxiety--a faint elation wells up.

(Whatever it is)

(Whatever Elbert thinks is necessary for his happiness)

(I don't want to stop him.)

I want him to smile.

I don't want him to give up his own happiness and look sad anymore.

(Whatever happens--)

(I want to stay by Elbert's side.)

Kate: Can I come with you?

Elbert: ... Yes.

Elbert: But... could you wait outside the mansion?

Elbert smiled softly.

Elbert: Because guilt doesn't suit you.

.

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Blind Love Chapter 24

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[aishangotome]

Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Chapter 25

Blind Love Chapter 24 Premium Story

♡———♡

If life were a fairy tale, it would be easy to find happiness.

A sinful and ugly monster is awakened by true love, becomes a handsome prince, and finds happiness.

But reality is more cruel than fairy tales that speak of such beauty as a condition for happiness.

--The chatter of people dances on the polished marble.

Bernard Trading Company's malicious "customers." The Queen has ordered their conviction, and I, along with several members of the Crown, have infiltrated a certain ball.

(This is...my last mission as a "one-month Fairytale Keeper".)

Alfons: This crowd reminds me of a while ago. When El wanted the "painting of the sea".

Kate: It feels like it was a long time ago.

Elbert: ...Yeah.

Alfons looked around the venue and yawned rudely.

Alfons: Ugh... Well-behaved parties are so boring.

Alfons: I wish the target would just show up.

Elbert: Roger is searching through all the sounds in the venue. I'm sure he'll find him soon.

Alfons: Roger, can you hear me? Find him quickly. I'm dying of boredom.

Kate: Won't that interfere with the search?

Alfons: Yes, it will.

Elbert: Don't you want him to be found quickly...?

Alfons: The ability to enjoy contradictions is what makes us human, isn't it?

Alfons: That guy can shut out sounds when he doesn't want to hear them, so he won't hear me anyway.

Alfons: I'm going to go get a drink somewhere.

Alfons: William is here for the mission, so I shouldn't be needed unless something major happens.

Alfons: If you need me, call me.

Elbert: Yeah, I got it. ...Have fun.

Alfons: Absolutely! I live to have fun.

Alfons turned around and disappeared into the crowd like a phantom.

Kate: Hehe... He's the same as always.

Elbert: ...I've been saved many times by that side of Al.

Elbert: If it weren't for Al... I might have been even crazier before I met you.

Elbert: Speaking of which... I remembered something I forgot to tell you.

Kate: What is it?

Elbert: Al was saying... about the day we got the painting of the sea.

Elbert: ...Thank you for trying to protect me.

Lord Elbert gently wrapped his arms around my waist.

Kate: Protect...? Ah, that time--

*flashback*

Kate: Lord Elbert. It seems the host hasn't arrived yet... Would you like to step outside for a bit?

Elbert: ...Kate.

Kate: Ah, well... Your face is a little pale, so I thought some fresh air might do you good.

*flashback over*

The feeling of not being able to bear seeing Lord Elbert's face turn pale came back to me.

(But...after that)

*flashback*

Elbert: ...Stop it.

Elbert: Stop touching her, stop criticizing her...

*flashback over*

Kate: ...Lord Elbert, you protected me that day too.

I didn't know anything about his past, his sins, but from that moment on, I knew his kindness.

Kate: Thank you.

Elbert: Mm...

The eyes of the people around us continued to observe Lord Elbert without hesitation, and the whispers that occasionally reached my ears criticized him as if he were a piece of art, but Lord Elbert's face did not pale, and he smiled gently at me.

Elbert: I won't let you make a sad face like that anymore.

Just then, a familiar loud voice suddenly came flying.

Elderly Man: Well, I saw you from afar and thought it couldn't be, but Elbert, it's good to see you again.

White Haired Lady: My, my! You've become even more beautiful!

I turned around at the familiar voices and saw the gentlemen who had been at the previous party.

(...These people)

I was just remembering the time I met them, and I reflexively became wary.

Elbert: ...Hello.

But Lord Elbert greeted them with his usual calmness.

(Lord Elbert...?)

Lord Elbert stepped forward, as if to shield me.

The glance we exchanged for a moment spoke to me.

(..."It's okay.")

Elderly Gentleman: Come now. Don't stand so far apart, let me see your face more closely.

The elderly gentleman reached out his hand without hesitation and strode towards Lord Elbert.

But before his fingertips could touch him, Lord Elbert spoke clearly.

Elbert: ...Stop it.

It was the same cold, resolute rejection he had given me that day to protect me.

Elbert: Stop touching me like that.

Elderly Gentleman: Wha...?

White Haired Lady: Wh-what do you mean, Elbert?

Elbert: ...Exactly what I said.

Elbert: After my father's death... I was taken care of by you.

Elbert: I want to repay my debt of gratitude properly,

Elbert: But... The only person who can touch me freely now is her.

He gently wrapped his arm around my waist and pulled me closer.

The gentlemen stood there stunned, as if they had been bitten deeply by a beast they thought had no teeth.

Elbert: ...Let's go, Kate.

Lord Elbert was about to leave the scene when he suddenly remembered something and turned around.

Elbert: Ah, I should probably tell you this beforehand.

Elbert: If you try to harm her, no matter how much gratitude I owe you,

Elbert: I won't show any mercy... Just remember that.

Elbert: If possible... I hope we can avoid such a thing.

The two men, sensing the unease in Lord Elbert's gentle smile, left the scene quietly without saying a word.

Kate: Lord Elbert...

Lord Elbert had properly rejected those who would hurt him.

Joy burst in my chest.

When I looked up, Lord Elbert was smiling a little shyly.

Elbert: Did I manage not to make you sad?

--CHOICES--

I should have said something too

Yes, of course you did

You were great

---------------

Kate: ...Yes.

Kate: Yes, of course...!

Elbert: ...Good.

Elbert: ...I wonder if I went a little too far.

Kate: I don't think so at all.

For Lord Elbert to say that was going too far, he must have never blamed or insulted anyone before.

The change in Lord Elbert, who has become stronger, and his unchanging kindness are both so dear to me that it hurts my chest.

Elbert: ...! Kate.

As if he suddenly noticed something, Lord Elbert hugged me, covering me up.

Kate: Lord Elbert...!?

(W-with all these people watching...)

Elbert: ...No, with so many people watching...

Kate: N-no, what do you mean?

Elbert: You... You had a very cute look on your face just now.

Elbert: I don't want to show it to anyone else.

Kate: ...?

Elbert: ...I want to gouge out the eyes of everyone who was looking at you.

Kate: ...

Elbert: The person who was looking at you as we were coming here,

Elbert: And the person who was pretending to drink champagne but was sneaking glances at you.

Kate: Was there someone like that...?

Elbert: ...There was.

He hugged me tightly, pressing me close to the point of discomfort.

(He's jealous of even the slightest glance that I wouldn't even notice...)

Lord Elbert is almost scentless, but I recently learned that when he clings to me so closely that his body heat transfers, he has a faint sweet scent.

His desires are deep, his obsessions are dark and dangerous.

But I loved all of it.

Roger: What are you two lovebirds doing during a mission?

Elbert: ...!

Kate: Roger...!

I hurriedly pulled away from Lord Elbert.

Roger: Sorry, but this is work.

Roger: Target confirmed. Moving to a deserted hallway. Now's your chance.

Today's target is a high-ranking nobleman who used to assault the daughters of other nobles. As a valued customer of Bernard Trading Company, he would have beautiful women kidnapped and assaulted.

I remember feeling sick just imagining it when I heard the story.

Roger: I'll go inform Will. Make sure the target doesn't come back to the venue.

Elbert: ...Yeah, I got it.

Lord Elbert nodded quietly, and Roger disappeared into the crowd.

Kate: I'll go with you.

Elbert: Yeah... I can't leave you in this venue.

Elbert: I'll protect you from the sad sights... Come with me.

-

As I walked down the hallway, hand in hand with him, I kept thinking.

The reason Lord Elbert continues to stay with Crown.

He said he joined Crown to obtain something beautiful to atone for his sins.

But even now, after letting go of his atonement, he remains in this organization, in this darkness.

(That must be because--)

Elbert: ...Kate.

Elbert: Stay back a little.

At the end of the hallway, there was a figure.

The moonlight cast a black shadow.

Elbert: ...Good evening.

Man: ...!

It was instantaneous.

Without hesitation, Lord Elbert's toe stepped on the shadow, and the man's body staggered, unable to turn around.

William: --Kate.

Kate: William...

The King of Righteousness, who had appeared out of nowhere, seemed to grasp the situation and turned his gaze towards Lord Elbert.

William: Ah... Tonight, El's "evil" is even more beautiful.

Without immediately approaching, William looked at Lord Elbert with a cheerful expression.

William: Speaking of which--

William: Tonight's target seems to have had an unusual obsession with young ladies with blue eyes and blonde hair.

(Eh...?)

Man: Ugh... Ugh... What is this...?

At that moment, the man, who had turned around with unsteady steps, opened his eyes in astonishment.

Those eyes, even in the darkness, were clearly recognizable--ocean blue.

Man: Cecilia...?

Elbert: ...

Lord Elbert turned his back on the man without answering the question.

Elbert: ...Will, I'll leave the rest to you.

William: Yeah, leave it to me.

Elbert: Let's go, Kate.

(...Just now, the name he called was,)

(Lord Elbert's--)

The man who once assaulted noble daughters.

An abnormal obsession with golden hair and blue eyes.

(Perhaps...)

I started to think, but stopped.

There was no point in searching for the truth.

Lord Elbert was no longer bound by the past.

Man: Wh-what are you doing, stop it, stop--

Lord Elbert's hand gently covered my ears.

Elbert: You don't need to hear this.

Elbert: You don't need to see it.

Elbert: Sad memories can easily... kill people.

(...That must be)

(The reason you stay in this darkness.)

To prevent even a single sad event, like the one that happened to Lord Elbert when he was young, that would leave an unfillable hole in someone's heart.

(If you continue to resist sadness in the darkness like that,)

(I want to stay by your side... always.)

Even if it leads us to the bottom of the endless darkness.

A certain man was condemned by Crown, who "fights evil with evil".

From now on, there will never be another victim of the man's evil hand.

The truth that will be revealed tonight was enough for both Lord Elbert and me.

-

--If life were a fairy tale, it would be easy to find happiness.

A sinful and ugly monster is awakened by true love, becomes a handsome prince, and finds happiness.

But reality is more cruel than fairy tales that speak of such beauty as a condition for happiness.

Sin remains sin.

When a monster looks in the mirror, the reflection is still a monster.

But even with sin, surely--.

-

Victor: It's been a month since you came here. Time flies, doesn't it?

Kate: Yes, it really does.

One month after the promise, the last night.

Just like the first night I met them, I was facing Victor.

The report I wrote about Lord Elbert was submitted to Victor a few days ago.

Victor: You certainly kept your promise.

Victor: From now on, I want you to choose by your own free will.

Victor: The life you want.

Kate: Yes, Victor. I--

Kate: I want to stay in this castle and be by Lord Elbert's side.

Victor: Can you tell me why?

Kate: ...Because I want him to smile.

Kate: Lord Elbert... and someone somewhere in this country.

Unexpectedly, Daisy's smile came to my mind, and my chest ached painfully again.

Kate: My power is small... and I will probably make many mistakes.

Kate: But if I'm with Lord Elbert, I think I can handle anything.

After hearing my answer, Victor smiled brightly.

Victor: Thank you for telling me.

Victor: It's a very kind and wonderful choice, just like you.

Victor: If you choose to live in this darkness with him...

Victor: I welcome you, Kate.

Victor: Welcome to the world of the dark night.

-

Elbert: ... Aren't you cold?

Kate: I'm fine. If we stay close like this, we'll be warm even if the wind blows.

Elbert: ...Then, let's get closer.

Kate: Wow...

We walk hand in hand along the shallows of the early morning, slowly opening up, and talk about random things.

Occasionally leaving the castle and cuddling up on this beach is a blissful time for me.

(...I'm sure it is for Elbert too.)

I can tell by his expression.

A place where we can gaze at each other without being disturbed by anyone.

That kind of place is Elbert's favorite.

Elbert: Speaking of which... I think I'll get rid of everything in my room someday.

Kate: .....!

Kate: Then I can add a lot of things for you.

Elbert: .............

Kate: What kind of things would make you feel more comfortable...

I remember the seashell I picked up before, so small, being put in a fine box and still cherished.

(...It might be fun when that big box is full.)

Kate: Ah...

Elbert: ...What's wrong?

I just found a small, faintly glowing seashell at my feet.

When I squat down and pick it up, the shell that looked white shines in rainbow colors.

Kate: This is very beautiful, Lord Elbert.

I try to hold it out while squatting.

Kate: What do you think, Lord Elbert?

Elbert: ...Yeah.

Elbert: I think it's very beautiful.

Kate: ...Hehe.

I'm happy to get an answer other than "I don't know," and when I smile, Elbert suddenly looks serious and squats down next to me.

Elbert: You still... seem happiest when you smile because of someone else.

Kate: Huh...? Wow--

The moment I let out a small voice in surprise, I was hugged...

I lost my balance and fell into the shallows with him.

The chilly seawater gently wets our bodies.

Kate: Lord Elbert...mmm...

Before I could close my eyes, our lips touched.

Lord Elbert takes my lips as if to quench his thirst, and as he seeks me with an almost painful intensity, my confusion fades away, leaving only a growing affection in my heart.

Kate: Mmm...Mm...

Even though I knew Lord Elbert would get wet, I couldn't help but wrap my arms around his neck.

The more I felt his heat, the louder my heartbeat became, and the sound of the waves faded away.

In between our drowning kisses, Lord Elbert whispered, as if revealing a secret.

Elbert: I'm sorry... Right now, I want your kiss.

Elbert: I want it, I want it so badly.

Elbert: Ever since we met... Every time you smile happily,

Elbert: I'm... My eyes are captivated, my heart is stolen. It scares me how much.

Elbert: If this continues... I might even want your life next.

Elbert: Holding you tight in my arms, making it so you can only see me.

Elbert: Whispering in your ear so you can only hear my voice.

Kate: ... El...

Elbert: Your body temperature, your gaze, your voice, all of it... even though I have it all to myself.

Elbert: It's still... still... not enough.

Elbert: I want you... all of you.

Our lips meet again, stealing my breath away.

The water that wets my skin, the sound of water that reaches my ears, kisses so intense I can't even breathe--

It's like I'm drowning in his desire.

(Why is it... I'm happy, yet...)

(It's painful, and I feel like crying.)

Elbert's curse, its nature is "greed."

Once directed towards the most beautiful thing in this world to atone for his sins, that desire is now all focused on me.

He wants all of me, to make me happy.

Kate: I want to give you everything too.

Kate: But... just like your heart and body belong only to you.

Kate: My heart and body can't completely belong to you.

Elbert: ... I know.

Elbert: Even if these lips stop breathing... and you can't go anywhere.

Elbert: I will surely want to see "you," to make you smile, and it will become unbearable.

"Unsatisfied and gaining nothing" -- that ending will surely come.

Because it's impossible for a person to truly possess another person completely.

Kate: Even so...

Kate: Even if being by your side continues to torment you.

Kate: ...Can I still be with you?

When I confessed everything honestly, Elbert embraced me without hesitation.

With a smile far, far more beautiful than a bisque doll.

Elbert: It's okay... even if I can never truly possess you.

Elbert: I want to eternally seek you, struggle, suffer, and die.

Elbert: ...That is my happiness.

Even with the burden of sin, the two of us can find happiness.

Even if we get hurt, even if we hurt each other--

As long as we're together on this beach, I'm sure.

FIN

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Blind Love: Epilogue

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Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Chapter 22

Blind Love Chapter 21

♡———♡

Elbert: Ah... I remember one more thing--

Elbert stared blankly at the owl specimen with vacant eyes.

Elbert: My father loved birds.

Kate: ...Is that why there are so many owl specimens?

Elbert: Maybe... I think I was more drawn to them than other things.

Elbert: Come to think of it, both of them loved things that fly...

Elbert's memories quietly overflowed like water gushing from a spring.

His voice, filled with nostalgia for something he could never get back, was warm and somewhat lonely, and just listening to it made my chest ache.

Elbert: And they both loved beautiful landscapes. Especially... paintings of the sea.

(Paintings of the sea...)

*Flashback*

Elbert: ...I want that.

*Flashback over*

(At that time... I thought he wanted to get the painting of the sea because everyone said it was "beautiful," but...)

(Maybe it was different...)

Butterfly specimens, bird specimens, paintings of the sea.

Maybe Elbert's own heart wanted them.

(Because they were things that the two people he "stole happiness from" loved.)

Kate: Lord Elbert... you wanted them to be happy, didn't you?

Elbert: ...It's not that pure of a feeling.

Elbert: I... I just wanted them to forgive me for being alive.

Elbert: I knew somewhere in my heart that it was meaningless... but I clung to the pain of wanting and getting things over and over again.

Elbert: My father used to say... that when I was suffering, his heart would be at peace.

(...!)

His father, who said that, must have been in unbearable pain too, but when I think of young Elbert being told such a curse, I feel anger and sadness welling up, and I hug Elbert tightly.

Elbert: ...Kate?

Kate: ...It's not meaningless.

Kate: I... I said it earlier, didn't I? Things that have feelings put into them have meaning.

Kate: Everything here...

Kate: It's filled with your feelings of wanting to make them happy, isn't it?

Even though I tried to stay calm and suppress my emotions, my voice trembled.

Elbert: ...Kate.

Kate: At first, I thought this room was a very lonely room. I thought it was cold and unfriendly.

Kate: But... now I think it's very beautiful.

Of course, not everything is beautiful in the conventional sense.

There might be things he obtained by taking innocent lives or things he took from someone else, causing them sadness.

(But... even so...)

The things collected in the room seemed to speak of Elbert's earnest feelings, so painful it was almost tangible.

---"Please smile."

Kate: ...To me, it looks like a very, very beautiful room.

Elbert: ...

Elbert: ...I think it's very messy, though.

Kate: That's not what I meant...

Elbert: ...Yeah, sorry. ...I know.

Elbert: ...Thank you.

Elbert: You said before... that even if something is ugly to 99 people, for one person,

Elbert: It might be the most beautiful thing in the world.

Elbert: ...If I could be something beautiful to you, I don't think I would care if 99 people hated me.

(Elbert...)

His voice was still hesitant, as if he was still unsure, but his words were a dazzling hope for me.

Kate: To me, you've been the most beautiful person in the world for a long time now.

Elbert: ...Thank you.

Elbert hugged me back tightly as if to confirm it, then looked back at the room and muttered.

Elbert: I've never offered anything to their graves before.

Elbert: Because the moment anything became mine... it stopped being beautiful.

Elbert: ...I felt like they wouldn't be happy with anything I got.

There was no sadness in his voice; it felt flat.

Kate: You "felt" that way, but what about... now?

Elbert: Now...

After a long silence, Elbert's lips moved.

Elbert: Now, I'm... imagining how I would feel if I offered something.

(...!)

I had a feeling that the past sins that had entangled him were gradually unraveling.

Kate: ...If you're going to offer something,

Kate: Can I go with you?

Elbert: Yes, of course.

Elbert: The graveyard is a little far from here... it will take a few days to travel.

Elbert: I can't bear to be away from you for days.

-

The crimson-dyed leaves rippled with every gust of wind.

---Elbert's parents were sleeping on this hill overlooking the sea.

Alfons: To Cecilia Greetia and Hugh Greetia.

Alfons: I've lived in the Greetia mansion for years, but this is the first time I've greeted you.

Roger: So, are we digging up this grave today?

Kate: To be precise, we're burying burial goods.

Elbert: Thanks, Al, Roger.

Elbert: Kate and I couldn't carry everything... so it's a big help.

We decided to carry some of the collection to the grave, but Roger and Alfons saw us struggling to carry them out of the room and offered to accompany us.

Kate: We really appreciate it.

Roger: Well, I'm going to get paid handsomely. Don't worry about it.

Kate: Payment... you mean money?

Roger: No. Something more interesting.

Kate: Something interesting...?

Roger grinned like a predator trapping its prey and whispered in my ear.

Roger: If El's collecting habit is rooted in the past, will the curse of "greed" fade as his burdens are lifted...?

Roger: Or will the "greed" remain the same, just with a different target...? You're curious, aren't you?

(I see... information about the "curse" is Roger's reward...)

Elbert: Roger.

Kate: Eek!?

Just as I was about to agree, I was hugged tightly from behind, and my shoulders trembled.

Elbert: ...You're too close to Kate.

Roger: My bad.

Roger laughed, holding up his hands, and winked at me.

Roger: From the looks of it, it seems like you already have the answer.

(...? What does he mean?)

Elbert: What were you talking about?

Kate: ...We were talking about how Roger is curious about how you'll change from now on.

Elbert: ...? ...??

Roger: It's exactly what it sounds like, just ignore it.

Alfons: Well, let's not stand around chatting, let's get on with digging up the grave.

Roger: "Let's," he says, as if he's not going to do it too. Here, shovel.

Alfons: Ah, too bad. I sprained my wrist yesterday and now I can't hold anything heavier than a kitten.

Elbert: Is that so...?

Alfons: So, I'll leave the manual labor to Roger and El. Here's your shovel.

Elbert: ...Alright, I understand.

(Did Alfons just hold a shovel in his hand...?)

Roger: Our greedy queen believes Al's nonsense too easily.

Kate: There was another shovel, wasn't there? I'll help too.

Elbert: ...No.

Kate: Huh...?

Elbert: I don't want your hands to get hurt... Just wait.

Kate: But...

Elbert held my hand preciously and stared at me intently, not seeming to budge an inch.

Kate: Um...

(When Elbert looks at me silently like that... I can't refuse anything.)

(I can tell he's... trying his best to care for me.)

My cheeks warmed up, and I quietly lowered my head.

Kate: ...Alright.

Elbert: ...Mm.

Then, thanks to Elbert's hesitant handling of the shovel and Roger's help, two black coffins eventually emerged.

Elbert and I placed the collected items on top of them and covered them with soil once more.

Burying was easier than digging up... and the two coffins and beautiful collection items quickly disappeared from sight.

Elbert: ...

With the strong wind blowing from the sea, Elbert's golden hair fluttered as he stared at the names engraved on the tombstone.

(...Even I, who only heard about Elbert's past from others,)

(...his feelings for his parents are very... complicated.)

Emotions that I couldn't put into words were swirling in my chest.

(Elbert's heart... must be filled with even more unorganized feelings.)

Roger: It looks like we should leave him alone for a while.

Alfons: Yes. Let's go back to the carriage first and take a nap.

(As for me...)

Kate: ...Lord Elbert.

Elbert: ...Hm?

Kate: I'll wait for you... a little further away.

Elbert: ...Ah, thank you.

I watched Alfons and Roger walk back to the carriage, and waited for Elbert at the edge of the cemetery, a little way down the hill.

(How is he feeling right now...?)

(Sad? Painful? Or... a little easier to breathe?)

(No matter how he feels when he comes back... I want to be there for him.)

After a while, I heard Elbert's footsteps walking towards me.

Kate: ...Is it okay now?

Elbert: Yeah... it's okay now.

Elbert smiled and looked back at the tombstone on the hill.

Elbert: ...I thought I would want to apologize if I came here.

Elbert: But no apologies came out.

Kate: ...Can I ask what you talked about?

Elbert: ...Just..

Elbert: Just... that I wanted to live with them.

Elbert: Even if it was a relationship where we hurt each other just by being close.

Kate: ...!

For a moment, my eyes felt hot, but I held it back.

Elbert's voice didn't sound like he was lamenting the unchangeable past.

Elbert: But... it must have been too painful for them.

Elbert: I... I couldn't give up on living and being happy.

Elbert: Is this also the curse of "greed"?

Kate: If so...

Kate: If that's a curse... then I'm glad.

Kate: I'm glad you're greedy, Lord Elbert...

Elbert: ...

Kate: I truly, truly think it's a good thing...

Elbert: Kate...

My feelings overflowed, and the tears I had held back earlier threatened to spill.

Elbert gently stroked my eyes, which had not yet shed any tears.

Elbert: ...No one has ever said that to me before.

Elbert: Al always says it's a hassle.

Kate: ...Hehe... That's so like Alfons.

I was happy with Elbert's kindness in joking around, and the smile that spilled out was a little wet.

Elbert: I feel refreshed somehow.

Kate: ...Do you think you won't want to collect beautiful things anymore?

Elbert: I guess so...

Elbert: My sins... will probably never disappear...

Elbert: But I'll stop collecting things to atone for them.

Elbert: I have more important things to do now.

Kate: More important things...?

Elbert's deep sea blue eyes shot straight at me.

(...!?)

At that moment, my breath stopped.

I was so captivated by his gaze that I couldn't move.

Elbert: The most beautiful thing in the world to me--

Elbert: --To protect you.

A sticky possessiveness colored the blue of his eyes.

(If the "greed" determined by the curse doesn't change, only the target...)

(If Elbert, who desires endlessly, his next target is--)

Elbert: Shall we go then?

Elbert: If we keep Al and Roger waiting too long... they'll scold us.

Kate: Y-Yes.

I have a feeling that he, who was once fragile, is transforming into something else.

In a narrow, dark place like a coffin, he awakens from a long sleep... Will it be a butterfly that spreads its wings, or something else--?

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Blind Love Chapter 23

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[aishangotome]

Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Chapter 21

Chapter 20

♡———♡

Victor: Now then, please enjoy your stay at Crown Castle after so long!

After finishing sharing various information, Victor spread his arms cheerfully.

Elbert: Thank you....But, there's something I want to talk to Will and Victor about.

Victor: El wants to talk to us? Of course, I don't mind!

William: I don't mind either.

Elbert: ...Thank you.

Kate: Can I listen in too?

Elbert: You––

Lord Elbert fell silent as if hesitating for a moment, then smiled faintly.

Elbert: ...I'll talk to you after I've sorted things out a bit.

(After sorting things out..........)

When Elbert tries to keep me away from something, it's usually when there's a sad event waiting.

(I want to be by his side at such times, but......)

*flashback*

Elbert: ...I feel like I'm taking everything away from you.

Elbert: The warm happiness, the untroubled future... everything you were supposed to have.

Elbert: The thought of hurting you again... and making you sad... makes me feel like I'm going crazy, but...

Elbert: I...

Elbert: I would rather drown with you than let you go back to the shore.

Elbert: I was happy that you wouldn't leave me and would sink to the bottom of the sea with me.

Elbert: I was so scared of myself for thinking that.

*flashback over*

(Surely Elbert would feel more at ease if I were the one being protected.)

(...I have a feeling that's the case.)

Kate: Thank you. Well then, I'll be waiting outside.

Elbert: ...Thank you.

Elbert: But...you must be tired, so you should return to your room and rest a bit.

Elbert gently stroked my hair with his delicate hands.

(...Ah...)

My face flushed warm at his gaze and gestures, which did not hide his affection.

Kate: ...I understand. Please don't push yourself too hard either, Lord Elbert.

Elbert: ...Mm.

Victor: Yes, yes, what a beautiful sight.

Alfons: Yawn...I should probably go to sleep soon, or I won't be able to go out tonight.

Alfons: Let's get going, Kate.

Kate: Yes. Well then, excuse me.

Roger: Are you sure about this, El? Your childhood friend is going to end up being the escort for the young lady you care so much about.

Roger's words made me blink, as I was about to obediently follow Alfons.

Kate: Alfons would never do such a thing, Roger.

(He told me a long time ago too...that he "doesn't feel that way.")

(And just the other day, he told Elbert that he "wouldn't take" me.)

Roger: Oh really? Seems like Al is pretty trusted, huh?

Alfons: Isn't that right, Kate?

Alfons: It's not like I, of all people, would do something barbaric like being an escort.

Jude: What's a walkin' violation of public morals sayin'?

Ellis: Shhh...

Roger: You agree, El?

Elbert: ...Al...

Elbert: ...wouldn't take...what's mine.

Elbert repeated what Alfons had said before, like an innocent child.

(I think so too...)

When I nodded silently, Alfons sighed in exasperation and shrugged.

Alfons: ...Oh dear, you trust people so easily.

Alfons: You two are a perfect match.

Roger: Tch...haha! I was wondering why Al of all people wouldn't make a move on the young lady.

Roger: I see, so even you couldn't make a move on two such cute bunnies...huh...

Alfons: ...They're the type of bunnies who would refuse help even if they were torn to shreds, so I simply didn't have a chance.

-

Leaving the conversation room, I headed to my room as Elbert instructed, but my mind was filled with thoughts of him.

(The dream Elbert told me about... being crucified at the bottom of the sea, drowning with me.)

(I've been thinking about its meaning ever since that day...)

I felt that what was crucifying him in the cold seabed was a heavy sense of guilt, like he shouldn't and couldn't be happy.

(If I could only lighten the guilt within Elbert.)

(I wonder if his nightmares would lessen, even a little...)

Since he's finally able to wish for happiness, I want him to savor it more and more, without any worries.

I want him to embrace me in his dreams without feeling the fear or anxiety of drowning me.

(But then again... how can I erase what Elbert couldn't in all these years?)

Kate: ...No...

Alfons: Is something troubling you?

Kate: Wah!?

Startled by the sudden voice behind me, my shoulders trembled.

I saw Alfons and Roger standing in the hallway, watching me, even though the other Crowns had already dispersed.

Kate: What's wrong, you two?

Roger: You stopped and spaced out not five steps from the door, so we were observing you.

Alfons: I was thinking if Roger were to eat you, I might as well join in.

Kate: Eat...?

Roger: Yeah, while El isn't looking... right?

(Right...? What...?)

Remembering something Elbert had said before, I took three steps away from Roger.

Roger: Tch... Hahaha! Don't be so wary, lil lady. I was just joking.

Roger: Alfons aside, El would probably kill me for real if I laid a hand on you.

Roger: I'd rather not die that way.

Kate: ...I see, that's good.

Alfons: So, why were you spacing out?

Kate: I was thinking. I was wondering if there's any way for Elbert to stop having bad dreams...

As we walked towards my room, sandwiched between the two of them, I lightly confided my worries.

Alfons: I see, it must be tough having your bed partner tormented by nightmares every night.

Alfons: Why don't you get some sleeping pills from that former doctor and slip him a dose? It'll make him sleep deeply.

Kate: Medicine... you mean make him sleep so deeply that he doesn't dream...?

(I've never thought of that...)

Kate: But... we can't keep giving it to him every day, can we?

Roger: Well, it's not impossible... but it's not healthy. Continuous use can also decrease its effectiveness. Besides,

Roger: Doesn't Kate want a more fundamental solution?

Kate: ...Yes.

Roger: I've known El for a while, though not as long as Al,

Roger: But you understand what's in his heart better than anyone.

Roger: If you do something with all your heart, it'll surely resonate with him, even if just a little.

Kate: ...Thank you. I'll think about it.

Alfons: Saying that feelings will work... That's not very professional advice for a doctor.

Roger: It's not like I'm saying love is a cure-all. So don't get discouraged if the nightmares don't go away, lil lady.

Roger: There are plenty of ways to treat the symptoms. Like the sleeping pills Al mentioned.

Roger: El has always refused to take them... but if Kate recommends them, he'll probably listen and take it.

Roger: There's also... the option of you seducing him and tiring him out so much that he doesn't even dream.

Kate: S-seduce him...?

Roger's fearless smile made me understand the meaning, and my face flushed instantly.

Alfons: If you don't know how to do it, I can teach you. In practice.

Kate: No need...!

While we were talking, we had arrived in front of my room.

Kate: Um... thank you both for the advice?

Alfons: Ah ha! Asking it as a question is quite hurtful.

Roger: If you need help, call us anytime. We'll charge you, but we'll lend a hand.

Alfons: Well, be careful not to get dragged down together in the nightmare.

-

After parting with the two, I closed the door to my room, filled with the pleasant scent of linen.

(It feels like I've come back after a long time...)

(Even if it's just a temporary lodging for a month... it's reassuring to think of it as my own room.)

I sat down on the bed and suddenly remembered Elbert's room.

(Seeing that room filled with beautiful things... what does Elbert think now?)

That room is a symbol of the days he spent giving up happiness and dedicating himself to atonement.

(I wonder if he feels like his wish to "be happy with me" was a mistake.)

My chest tightened.

(I'll wait for Elbert in front of that room again.)

(If he ever feels that way, I want to be by his side at that time.)

Suddenly, the rabbit plush toy Elbert gave me caught my eye.

(...That's right... maybe)

(The clue to fading his nightmares might be in that room.)

-

Victor: Now, shall we talk about the matter you didn't want Kate to hear?

Elbert: ...Yes.

Elbert: You said you obtained the Bernard Trading Company's client list...

Elbert: If you'll allow it, could I see that list?

Elbert: ...There's something I want to confirm.

William: The list is confidential, but Crown members are allowed to view it.

William seemed to have understood what would be requested from the beginning and took out a document from his pocket.

Elbert: ...Thank you.

William: The person you're looking for is on page 19.

Elbert: ...!

Elbert's blue eyes scanned over the numerous names listed in the document...

Elbert: ...........

They stopped on a certain name.

William: That's the name of the person who requested Kate's kidnapping.

Elbert: ...Jeffrey.

His voice was so faint, like a single raindrop falling in the dark night, that Victor's smile deepened.

Victor: ...Yes, your butler.

William: Among the clients listed,

William: Those who have repeatedly made malicious requests—especially those in positions to influence the judiciary—

William: As I said earlier, we plan to condemn them as Crowns in the future.

William: But as for him, a first-time offender with an attempted crime and not much power, we'll leave it to you to decide what to do.

William: ...What do you say?

Elbert: ...Yes.

Elbert: Thank you... Leave it to me.

-

In the end, I quickly left my room and stood in front of Elbert's door.

I had something in mind, holding the rabbit stuffed animal Elbert had given me before.

(Ah... he's coming!)

Kate: Lord Elbert.

Elbert: Kate...? Why are you here?

(Now that I think about it, this is the first time I've waited in front of his room... it's usually the other way around.)

I'm happy that I don't have to hide my feelings anymore, and my cheeks loosen up.

Kate: I wanted to be near you, so I was waiting for you.

Elbert: ...!

Kate: ...It's the opposite of before, isn't it?

Elbert: ...Ah.

Elbert: ...I'm... so happy.

The expression on his face is a mix of confusion and happiness, and it makes me feel affectionate.

(If he makes that face... I want to wait in front of his room every morning to see him wake up.)

Elbert: ...Please, come in.

Elbert opens the door to his room.

(This is the first time I've been in this room since... that day I was locked in)

Elbert: Are you scared to come in...?

Kate: Huh...?

Elbert: It's okay. ...From now on, I won't tie you up or lock you in... I'll be careful...

Elbert mutters so hesitantly that I can't help but laugh.

(That day... I was certainly hurt badly.)

(But it wasn't because I was locked up.)

At that time, I was sad and pained because I was overwhelmed by my powerlessness to save Elbert from his guilt.

(But I won't be crushed like that again.)

(Because Elbert wished to be happy together.)

Kate: I'm not scared. Besides...

(Now, it's rather...)

*Flashback*

Elbert: I don't want to let you go.

Elbert: Stay here.

*Flashback over*

Remembering the marks of his possessiveness etched into my skin and the feeling of his arms tightly wrapped around me, I found myself muttering.

Kate: If it's what you want to be happy... I don't mind being locked up again.

Elbert: ...

Kate: Ah... um, so, please don't worry- mmph!

I was robbed of my words by a sudden kiss.

Elbert pulled away with a reluctant sound, and muttered with a troubled look.

Elbert: ...Don't tempt me too much, Kate.

(...!?)

Kate: ...Y-Yes...

Feeling the heat rise to my neck, I hurriedly stepped into Elbert's room.

Elbert's room was still as quiet as the deep sea.

Kate: ...When I went back to my room earlier, I felt relieved even though it's just a temporary place to stay.

Kate: How about you, Lord Elbert?

Elbert: ...I don't really understand that feeling.

Elbert: But... compared to when I locked you up...

Elbert: Now that you've come in here of your own free will... I feel more at ease, I guess.

(...That's good.)

Elbert doesn't seem to be as guilt-ridden as I was worried about, and I feel relieved.

Kate: This is where you gave me this rabbit stuffed animal, wasn't it?

Elbert: Yes. I thought you were strange... wanting something like that.

The ribbon wrapped around the rabbit is still tied crookedly, just like when we first met, but that shape is more endearing than anything, enveloping it in a warm light.

Kate: If you don't mind... could you tell me about the things in this room, like you did with this rabbit?

Elbert: ...Why?

Kate: I want to know the feelings you've poured into them.

There's nothing for him among the things he's collected.

But I feel like his feelings for the collection are hidden everywhere.

Kate: Things that have feelings put into them have meaning.

Kate: And things that have meaning... I think they sometimes even have the power to change reality.

Kate: Like how you treasured the white seashell I gave you...

Kate: It made me not give up on being happy with you...

Elbert: ...Kate.

Kate: That's why I thought that if we could find something like that, maybe...

Kate: You could forgive yourself just a little bit.

Kate: And maybe there will come a night when the nightmares aren't nightmares anymore.

Elbert: ...

Elbert: ...You're still too kind.

Elbert looked around the room.

Elbert: I've forgotten why most of these things are here, or why I got them...

Elbert: ...But if I look at them with you, I might remember something.

Kate: Hehe, then let's explore together.

We continued our exploration, poking at fist-sized jewels and tilting our heads at mysterious sculptures.

(This reminds me of when we were looking for the blue poppy... hm?)

Kate: The contents of this shelf seem a little older than the others.

Elbert: It's in a secluded place, so... maybe Al was too lazy to sell them and left some old things behind...

(Ah... there were frames on the wall, but there's also a butterfly specimen here.)

In the back of the shelf, a slightly old specimen box was stored away as if forgotten.

Kate: This one feels a little... unfinished compared to the others.

Elbert: Ah, that's...

Elbert: Probably... the first specimen I made... I think...

Elbert stared at the box in my hand with a distant look in his eyes.

(...He's remembering something.)

Kate: That was... when?

Elbert: ...I don't know. It was when my mother was alive, so I must have been younger than six.

Kate: Why did you want to make it?

Elbert: ...It was strange.

Elbert: It's just a creature with legs and wings, like a caterpillar...

Elbert: But my mother, who hated caterpillars... didn't hate butterflies.

(I see...)

Elbert gently brushed the dust off the specimen.

The blue and white butterfly wings, reminiscent of a beautiful sea, became more vivid, and Elbert opened his mouth as if his memories had come back to life.

Elbert: Ah... I remember one more thing--

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Blind Love Chapter 22

If you’d like to support my translations, feel free to buy me a coffee here! :)

[aishangotome]

Elbert Greetia: Blind Love Ending Chapter 24

Blind Love Chapter 23

♡———♡

Butterflies flitted across the field of vibrant flowers that stretched as far as the eye could see. The faint sound of waves lapping on the shore could be heard in the distance.

(… What a beautiful place.)

I had left London early that morning and arrived at Elbert's manor house just before noon. As we had discussed before my arrival, I was waiting for Elbert in the flower field near the mansion.

(Elbert and the others… I wonder if they've already arrived at the mansion.)

Without any particular arrangement, Alfons had wandered back to the castle that morning and boarded the carriage with us as we were about to leave.

(Perhaps Alfons knew about Elbert's plan.)

I had a feeling that something was about to happen in that mansion, which was surely filled with sad memories.

Like a chick hatching from an egg or a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis, a dramatic change was about to occur. Although it was a small event in the grand scheme of things, it was significant for those who witnessed it.

(Did Elbert used to make flower crowns in this field?)

I recalled a time when we had a picnic together in a similar flower field. Back then, I was in love with him, even though he was drowning in guilt. I wanted to save him, to be happy with him.

*flashback*

Elbert: I want to kiss you.

Elbert: I want to touch you more.

Elbert: …I want to know everything about you, your voice, your breath, your body temperature.

Elbert: The more I look at you, the more unbearable it becomes…

Elbert: …It's like poison is coursing through my body.

Kate: …No.

Kate: Please, don't kiss me…

*flashback over*

(… When Elbert comes back today,)

(I won't hold back like I did that day.)

(I will hug him back and kiss him.)

A strong wind blew, making the flowers ripple like waves in the sea.

(When he returns, no matter how Elbert has changed,)

-

Maid with Braids: W-what did you just say…?

Old Butler: When I read that letter, I thought it was a mistake… But were you serious, Elbert?

Elbert: …Yes.

Elbert: I'm dismissing all the servants in this house, effective today.

As expected, the servants looked at me with disbelief when they heard the announcement. But my decision was final.

Elbert: Don't worry. I've arranged new jobs for all of you.

Elbert: They're not far from here… I've chosen places with good working conditions and generous masters.

Elbert: It will be much better for you than staying in a house where the master is hardly ever home.

I explained, making eye contact with each of them. I wanted them to understand that my decision was not up for debate, but I didn't wish them any ill will.

Elbert: Even though I sent a letter in advance, it will be difficult to do it right away... So the work will start in a new mansion one month later.

Elbert: Everyone, take your time to get your affairs in order.

Elbert: Thank you for your service.

Jeffrey: .............

While some were speechless and others shed tears, Jeffrey alone stood calmly in front of them.

Elbert: Jeffrey, you alone will stay here.

Jeffrey: ....!

The servants, realizing there was no room for argument, left the room one by one.

Elbert: Shall we move to another location?

Jeffrey: ……As you wish.

Elbert: .............

-

Tick, tock, the only sound was the ticking of the clock's second hand.

The noise of the servants faded away once the door was closed.

Jeffrey: How about some tea for now?

Elbert: …Yes.… I'll prepare the cups.

Jeffrey glanced at me as I took out the cups from the cupboard while he prepared the tea leaves.

There was a happy smile on his face.

Jeffrey: I remember asking you to teach me how to brew tea, and we prepared it together and drank it like this.

Jeffrey: It was between the time your mother passed away and before your father passed away, wasn't it…?

Elbert: …I remember that too.

Jeffrey: When I found you on your tiptoes trying to reach the teacups to cheer up your father,

Jeffrey: To be honest, I was terrified. I thought the shelf was going to fall over.

Jeffrey: Your earnest figure was pitiful… All the people in the mansion were infatuated with you.

Elbert: …Is that so…

I'm sure there were peaceful memories, but I can't remember them clearly anymore.

When did I start to feel anxiety and fear in his words, voice, and smile?

Elbert: …I remember too…You always used this cup.

It was a white cup with green vines and strikingly red berries that looked poisonous.

When I handed it to him, Jeffrey began to pour the tea with practiced hands.

Jeffrey: …It's been a while since you came without Alfons.

Jeffrey: I've always been appalled by his behavior.

Jeffrey: If it weren't for your instructions, Elbert, I would have kicked him out the day he first came to this mansion.

Elbert: …I'm glad you didn't.

Elbert: I need Al.

Jeffrey: …Speaking of which, I don't see him today. How about Kate?

Jeffrey: To be honest, I was relieved. She… spoils you.

Elbert: ..............

Having finished brewing the tea, Jeffrey sat down in a chair.

Elbert: Why do you think so…?

Jeffrey: This dismissal commotion is mostly due to her influence, isn't it? She disrupts the harmony of this mansion.

Jeffrey: She will kill the honest, kind, pitiful, and beautiful Elbert…

Elbert: ..............

Jeffrey: This decision is a mistake.

Jeffrey: You are mistaken about who truly loves you, Elbert.

Jeffrey: Neither of your parents gave you love. But I'm different!

Jeffrey: I will love you, no matter what sinful and dirty past you have that ruined your parents' lives… I will continue to do so.

Jeffrey: All the servants felt the same way.

Jeffrey: Even those who were hesitant at first would have embraced you immediately if I had spoken to them.

Elbert: ..............

Without answering his words, I gently picked up the teacup.

As I brought it to my lips, I could smell the pleasant aroma of the tea.

The words that used to bind my heart and body like a curse were surprisingly slipping through my ears lightly.

Elbert: ...Jeffrey.

Elbert: The tea will get cold.

Jeffrey: Ah, that’s right. Sorry, I got a little carried away.

Jeffrey: I want you to remember. Our… my love.

With a cheerful smile, Jeffrey put his lips to his teacup.

Elbert: …Is it delicious?

Jeffrey: Yes, of course. I am the one who procures the tea leaves for this mansion.

Jeffrey: From now on… please leave the matters of this mansion to me.

Jeffrey: You can just stay the way you are, my poor, beautiful, kind Elbert.

--The change came when he finished drinking all the tea.

Like a signal of collapse… the cup slipped from his hand and rolled onto the carpet.

Jeffrey: Ugh… huh…?

Jeffrey stared at his weakening hand and opened his eyes in confusion.

Elbert: Can’t move your body properly?

Jeffrey: Th… this is… wh, what in the wo--

Elbert: Has your tongue gone numb too?

Elbert: It works fast, huh… it might be a matter of quantity.

Jeffrey: …Th… ha… haa…

Jeffrey tried to stand up, pale, but his legs seemed to have no strength and he collapsed onto the table.

Elbert: I won’t give you any time to rest.

Elbert: You talk about love for me…

Elbert: But whether yours--yours is love or not, it doesn’t matter.

Elbert: Even if it’s scary, unpleasant, and makes me nauseous… I was the one who silently accepted it as a natural punishment.

Elbert: I’m not saying that only you are to blame.

Jeffrey fell to the floor, taking the things on the table with him.

Elbert: But… you tried to hurt someone important to me.

Jeffrey: Ah, ah… ah…

Elbert: Whoever tries to take her away from me... I will not forgive them.

Whenever I think of Kate trembling in fear on the night of the auction, the anger that had been crouching in the depths of my heart rears its head and bares its fangs.

This is the first time I've directed that feeling at him—and it will be the last.

Elbert: The pain will only last a short while. You'll lose consciousness soon.

Elbert: Your heart will stop beating while you sleep.

I slowly rise from my chair.

Elbert: ...Thank you for everything.

Jeffrey's body remained motionless.

Alfons: —Poisoning the rim of a cup...

Alfons: You've become quite the villain, haven't you?

Alfons, appearing like a draft, looked down at the cup lying on the floor and chuckled.

Elbert: ...Sorry to involve you in this.

Alfons: Don't worry about it.

Alfons: Is he dead yet?

Elbert: I don't know... Not yet, I think.

Alfons: He seems to have lost consciousness... Shall we just say he's passed on?

Alfons: He's not going to make it anyway.

Alfons: Congratulations on your departure from the tragedy known as life. You've worked hard.

Clapping halfheartedly, Alfons poured the remaining tea from the teapot into my cup, leaned against the table with poor manners, and drank it all.

Alfons: ...Then, as planned, shall we carry the body out the back door? The undertaker I arranged is here too.

Elbert: I see...The timing was good.

Alfons: Heh, even so...

Alfons: This is the second time I've seen you kill someone in this room.

The sound of the ticking clock continued to echo.

--I remember my palm holding a pair of scissors, stained with blood.

On that day, I wanted to become "beautiful" so that I wouldn't hurt the person I cared for, wouldn't make them sad, and would make them smile.

Alfons: ...This time, aren't you going to ask? "Am I beautiful now?"

Elbert: ...Ah.

Elbert: There's no need to ask anymore.

-

(Ah...)

I heard the sound of footsteps on the grass and turned around to see a figure walking towards me. Unable to contain my excitement, I ran towards him.

Kate: Lord Elbert!

Elbert: Kate... I'm sorry to have kept you waiting.

Kate: Welcome back.

Elbert: ...I'm home.

I gently embraced Lord Elbert, nestling close to him.

His arms wrapped around my back, holding me close and sharing his warmth.

We stayed like that for a while, until Lord Elbert spoke.

Elbert: ...Aren't you going to ask anything?

(It's not like I can't imagine what Elbert has been doing...)

(I thought it was okay if he wanted to keep it a secret, I wouldn't pry.)

I didn't need to know if it would make him worry that I would be sad or our happiness would be ruined.

(But...)

Lord Elbert was looking at me with a gentle smile, and there was no trace of sadness or anxiety in his eyes.

Kate: Did the servants agree...?

Elbert: Yes. There wasn't even an argument.

Kate: That's good... Who will be managing the mansion from now on?

Elbert: I've asked a few of the servants from Crown Castle to help.

Kate: That's reassuring.

Kate: ...How did you part ways with Jeffrey?

The wind that had been gently caressing my skin suddenly stopped.

Elbert: ...So that he could never hurt you again.

Elbert: I said goodbye.

His lips, still curved in a smile, calmly declared.

(Ah... I knew it.)

Even without direct words, I understood.

Elbert's hands had committed another sin.

Unspeakable emotions welled up inside me.

Elbert: Kate...

Lord Elbert gently cupped my cheek in his hand.

Elbert: ...Don't look so sad, Kate.

Elbert: My hands are indeed stained with sin,

Elbert: But just now, for the first time, I... I was glad to have been born as me.

Kate: Huh...?

Elbert: With my cursed power... I have caused so much grief,

Elbert: And under the guise of atonement... I have taken so many innocent lives.

Elbert: I thought being born with a curse and carrying sin was my punishment.

Elbert: But...

Elbert: Because of these sin-stained hands, I can protect you.

In the scenery gradually swallowed by the evening darkness, the smile that finally seemed saved was so dazzling that my breath stopped. Just for me, he stained his hands with sin – Lord Elbert smiles so happily. Elbert: From now on... every time you encounter a sight that saddens you, I will cover your eyes. Elbert: I will protect you from anything that hurts you. Elbert: I will not let anyone take your heart or your body. Elbert: Until you stop breathing... and even after, forever. No matter how many kind people surround you, it is difficult to live without hurting or being hurt. Moreover, what awaits us is a world of merciless darkness. (The closer we are, the more Lord Elbert will surely... deepen his sins.) To protect my heart from sadness, and my life from danger. To be happy together, the two of us. (Even though my heart aches so much because of that...) (But... seeing you smile like this--) Kate: Lord Elbert-- Elbert: Hm... what? Kate: Are you happy now...? My voice trembled as I asked. Elbert: ...Yes. Elbert: I am happy. More than ever. Elbert: Because I met you. Because you wished for my happiness. Elbert: At the bottom of the water where I couldn't give up or even rise to the surface... you gave me light. The palm that was cupping my cheek tenderly traced the outline of my jaw.

Elbert: So, please don't be sad.

His clear blue eyes told me that he was aware of the pain in my heart.

(Lord Elbert... has changed.)

The Lord Elbert who merely endured the thorns pressed upon him is no more.

But the kindness sensitive to pain and sadness remains at the root of his heart.

That's why, every time he commits a sin, a wound must appear somewhere in Lord Elbert's heart.

(Even so... if you call that happiness...)

(... If you call what's between me and Lord Elbert happiness...)

I will accept all of the happiness that this kind person chooses, even while getting hurt.

Your kindness, so sad that you wouldn't even want to sadden those who hurt you, and your precarious strength, now trying to protect me even if your own heart is wounded.

I want to accept it all, and love it.

Kate: -I am happy too.

Kate: I am also glad that you are you.

Elbert: Kate...

We both know that feelings we can't put into words are overflowing in our hearts.

Elbert: Kate... I want to kiss you.

Elbert: I want to touch you more.

Elbert: ...I want to know everything: your voice, your breath, your body temperature.

The same words that I could only refuse that day painfully shake my heart.

Kate: I also... want to kiss you.

Kate: Please, kiss me...

Elbert: ...

I'm drowning in love, unable to even breathe.

As if seeking air, I wrap my arms around Lord Elbert's neck, and the arms that encircle my back hug me back tightly.

Love cannot erase sadness from this world.

(That's why... I want to stay close to you.)

(I want to continue loving you with all of me.)

Your sins, your love, your wounds--

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Blind Love Chapter 24 Premium Story

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