The Sorcerer Killer's Third Chance (JJK x Re:ZERO)

In the Aftermath

I've read all your comments and have realized how many things I've overlooked, leaving a few (minor) plot holes. For example, Toji's weapons, Reinhard's unreasonably overpowered blessing, etc. (Really only those two lol.) I just wanted to say sorry for overlooking them. Also sorry this chapter took longer despite how short it is, (3000 words). I had surgery a few weeks ago and took a break from writing. This chapter is also shorter than usual since it's slightly rushed because I really wanted to move onto arc 2. I hope you all enjoy it. Also, if you guys have any suggestions for the plot, feel free to tell me on the conversations tab on my profile.

Emilia reached out, her hands glowing with a faint, serene blue light, and pressed them gently against Toji's wounds. Despite his attempts to pull back, muttering under his breath about being fine, she persisted, her expression set with calm determination. The cuts and bruises on his skin began to fade, knitting together as if they'd never been there.

"―Alright, that's enough," Toji finally said, shrugging his shoulders as he straightened up, rolling them to check the restored muscles. He gave Emilia a half-nod, something between reluctant gratitude and impatience.

Emilia offered a small, gentle smile, her eyes meeting his. "You may not need it, but that doesn't mean you don't deserve it," she said softly.

Toji gave a faint scoff, looking away, but didn't argue further. There was an odd warmth there, something settling.

As Toji straightened, Reinhard's attention shifted to him, a concerned yet composed expression on his face. "Are you alright now, Toji?"

Toji gave a brief nod, rolling his shoulders once more. "I'm fine."

"That's splendid news," Reinhard replied, relief evident in his voice. He then turned his gaze toward Emilia. "Now, Emilia-sama―"

Toji's eyes narrowed at the word sama. Sama? he thought, a flicker of suspicion tightening his expression. He glanced over at Emilia, piecing together the implications of that single, honorific title. It wasn't just anyone who received that level of respect from someone like Reinhard. But he kept his musings to himself, content to let things unfold and keeping his outward expression neutral.

Reinhard, seeming oblivious to Toji's reaction, continued with a respectful bow to Emilia. "I apologize for not arriving earlier to prevent these... damages." His gaze shifted to the gaping hole in the wall and the scattered wreckage outside, his eyes narrowing at the scale of the destruction.

Emilia offered a soft, apologetic smile in response. "You arrived just in time, Reinhard."

Toji's gaze moved between the two, an eyebrow raised as he took in the interaction, something brewing in his mind.

Emilia tilted her head slightly, her expression curious. "By the way, you're dressed pretty lightly."

Reinhard nodded, glancing down at his casual attire. "Today is one of my rare days off, so I wasn't wearing my imperial uniform. My armor is presently in the castle, so for today, my sword is the only knightly object I have on me." He gestured to the gleaming blade at his side, offering a small, amused smile.

Emilia blinked, slightly taken aback. "How come you got wrapped up in this on your day off?"

Reinhard hesitated, rubbing the back of his head apologetically. "It's a little complicated, but... I followed Toji, out of suspicion."

Toji's eyes narrowed slightly, though he didn't feel anger, only a mild annoyance mixed with curiosity. The real issue was that he hadn't noticed Reinhard shadowing him at all—a fact that unsettled him more than he'd like to admit.

Reinhard gestured toward Felt, who was still busy by Rom's side. "Along the way, I met her, and that led me here."

Emilia's gaze softened as she followed Reinhard's gesture. "Right, that girl."