The story of how I, who became the beloved child of Winter Fenrir, was healed from despair

17: Guardians’ Consultation☆
(Grea’s Perspective)

A strange sound echoed through the cave, and I understood the situation with El-sama. She was so distressed and incoherent that we didn’t press her for details. Feeling sorry for her, we let her be. Exhausted from crying, she fell asleep beside me.

She might not realize it, but she clung tightly to my hand and wouldn’t let go.

＜Then, sleep here tonight, Grea. It’s a token of my gratitude for your help.＞

“!? Is that really alright!?”

Oops, I reacted too strongly, and it felt a bit awkward! Calm down, me!!

I probably would have been wagging my tail furiously if I were in unicorn form. Oh no. I don’t want to show any failures, especially given my admiration for Fenrir-sama. This honor is overwhelming.

It’s only natural to discuss El-sama’s future.

I gratefully accepted the kind offer. They carefully created a snow seat for my back. Such kindness only deepens my faith in them!!

While thinking about this, I fell into a deep sleep, apparently having had a very tough day in my own way.

＊＊＊

I woke up to Fenrir-sama’s voice. It was the best wake-up call, though I had intended to get up on my own. I’m sure it would be awkward to apologize for that, so I decided to keep it to myself.

＜Your ears are down. Don’t worry about it＞

Stand up, ears!!!! Damn it!!

“I apologize for my lapse.”

Fenrir-sama trembled slightly. It seemed like they were laughing. Since meeting El-sama, Fenrir-sama has appeared happier and more expressive than before.

＜Let’s talk about that “smartphone” of hers until El wakes up＞

“Certainly.”

The machine that El-sama holds so carefully in her hand. I don’t fully understand the attachment to it, given that it’s related to her parents’ love. However, I can imagine it’s very important to El-sama.

Fenrir-sama assured me that they wouldn’t take it away or erase her memories related to it.

＜I want to lighten El’s burden as much as possible. Her parents’ words weren’t meant to blame but to show concern for their daughter. In that case, shouldn’t we reply to them?＞

“That’s… difficult.”

I couldn’t agree right away. I wondered if El-sama hadn’t read all of the messages, given how she stumbled over her words at that time.

“If we reply, there will be another response from them. That response might contain something that could hurt El-sama.”

＜Hmm… She was so distressed even by the letters of concern.＞

Fenrir-sama frowned deeply. Although their expression is hard to read due to being a different species, I understand it perfectly.

＜But if there’s no reply, the parents might think, “What’s going on?” and press for answers.＞

“Perhaps it’s better to erase El-sama’s memories.”

＜Now, now＞

I genuinely think so. Even if El-sama harbored a desire to return to her world deep down, no one knows how to achieve that, and she can’t go back. She has exceptional suitability as Fenrir-sama’s successor, is loved as a beloved daughter, and with my support, she lacks for nothing here. The path to glory is assured.

“Until she gets a response from the smartphone, El-sama seemed to be having fun and excited, didn’t she?”

＜Hmm…＞

“Memories are precious, but sometimes they can be unnecessary. Sometimes, forgetting them can help one live the present more fully without reservations. El-sama, who was enjoying herself during the day, was likely in a state of temporary forgetfulness of her troubles.”

I didn’t intend to bring this up, but it seems necessary. I’ll speak honestly and seriously.

“I don’t remember being disparaged by fellow unicorns or receiving cold glances from my parents. I used to erase those memories every time. Well, lately, I’ve stopped erasing them as I’ve grown indifferent to such responses when I return to my homeland. But back then, I used to be quite troubled by them.”

It’s embarrassing to admit, but I judged that full disclosure was necessary for this discussion.

“Evaluations from others can sometimes be poisonous and erode self-esteem. If one doubts oneself and loses confidence because of such things, it’s easy to fall into a dark place. Sometimes, forgetting can be a remedy.”

＜You’ve also walked a thorny path, haven’t you?＞

Fenrir-sama chuckled softly.

＜I can’t fully agree with that, but I understand what Gréa is trying to convey, and I’m grateful for his support as an advisor. Let’s be thankful for the current situation.＞

“It’s an honor!!!!!!”

Ah, how precious it all is!!!!!

Oh, right now, I’m focusing desperately on El-sama, so I need to stay concentrated.

Calm down, me.

Thanks to Fenrir-sama’s sigh of cool wind, my head is cooling down… or rather, not really. This special distance is making my fan spirit surge. I’ll try to suppress it.

<…I also have no memories. When I became a beast, I forgot the dozen years I spent as a prince. I think that was necessary. As the beloved child of the previous Fenrir-sama, I must live as a beast. If I continued to think like a human, I wouldn’t be able to hunt with these fangs.>

When Fenrir-sama opens his mouth wide, sharp teeth are revealed.

Indeed, humans don’t carry bloody prey in their mouths.

When conversing with the forest beasts, being in beast form is more naturally accepted. Conversely, when talking with people, being in human form is easier to accept. If living in the forest, Fenrir-sama has to make beast form the standard.

“El-sama will live on as Fenrir’s half-beast, Winter Princess.”

I asserted this.

Fenrir-sama seems to still be troubled, so I had to say it.

He still looks troubled.

“I believe it will.”

El-sama will choose her own path, to become the successor.

After all, how much affection Fenrir-sama has poured out. Surely, El-sama would choose this over her real parents whom she hasn’t seen in a long time?

Fenrir-sama fell silent for a while, seemingly in contemplation.

<— I’ll suggest that El should reply. The other party is also a parent who cares for their daughter, so it shouldn’t be bad. I believe El will overcome it someday. For that, let’s pour even more affection than before.>

Fenrir-sama nuzzles his noble face against El-sama, who gently gets buried in the silvery fur.

So, I’m also caught up in it—thank you very much.

This unparalleled comfort that seems otherworldly, thank you very much.

The concern that direct contact with the fur might make me ill has been defeated by my high spirits, and now I’m feeling better than ever.

“No! In fact, I feel better now!”

<？？？>

Oops, my mistake. Let’s move on to the next topic.

“To summarize: When El-sama wakes up, we’ll recommend replying to the communication. Fenrir-sama will pour even more affection and provide mental care for her.”

“I understand. There was one more thing I was going to say.”

“”

Fenrir-sama and I exchanged dark smiles.

“I’ll send a grudge-laden message. Unicorn’s tainted grudge works like a curse of resentment. I’ll send plenty. May it crumble.”

Muttering to myself with what must be a rather ominous expression, Fenrir-sama did not stop me. On the contrary, he praised me. Thank you very much!

“I think so too.”

Since it’s not good for a unicorn to stay in a dark mood as it affects healing power, I aimed all the resentful energy at the company. Ah, what a relief. This is definitely reaching them. They should realize the guilt and cost of hurting El-sama so much.

“Mm…”

El-sama starts to stir.

She looks like she’s about to wake up.

Fenrir-sama’s expression instantly softens.

Ah, I really love that face. It’s so beautiful.

The royal blue sapphire eyes peek out. Ah, they’re beautiful as well. They seem to shine from within.

“…Good morning… Huh?”

“Once again, you’ve slept too long…”

Oops… I almost let a sarcastic remark slip. I need to correct this going forward. I will become a calm and perfect unicorn who never lets emotions disturb me.

“A big wolf and a purple beauty…”

E-El-sama!!!!!!!!!! Please be careful with your words!! The unicorn’s appearance is indeed beautiful, but it’s not just a purple beauty—it’s your assistant, Greya. Please use his name!

El-sama is too formidable.

Seeing her smile, I felt genuinely relieved. She had been feeling down, but after a good rest, she must have regained her spirits. I’m glad my healing magic seemed to work. If El-sama feels down again, I’ll hold her hand.

“Nooooooooooo!?”

El-sama’s scream is always delightful.

Later, I secretly conversed with Fenrir-sama in beastly growls.

<…In the end, I forgot to recommend that El reply… I’m getting old…>

Ahhh, a shadow has fallen on Fenrir-sama’s back…!

I completely understand that feeling of being filled with admiration for someone!

I’m glad to see Fenrir-sama so happy. I will protect this daily life.

As I bowed deeply, El-sama nearly toppled forward and complained with her face buried in Fenrir-sama’s mane. A playful retaliation! Her mane was being ruffled.

Ohhh, what’s with those petting skills!? Nothing to see here!!!! Work! Mission! Okay, calm down, me!!

I’ll give my best today too!