healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2022-10-30 02:37 pm
healingbonds) wrote2022-10-30 02:37 pm
Entry tags:
Main Story 2 | Chapter 6 | Following the Fate of the Stars
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Chapter 5 << | index | >> Chapter 7
Chapter 6: Following the Fate of the Stars
6.1 Huddling Close Together
6.2 Fate of the Stars
6.3 The Bestowed Prophecy
6.4 He Who Resists Fate
6.5 The Time Remaining
6.6 If We Can Save Him...
6.7 Feeling His Pain
6.8 Tracing His Tracks
6.9 Here, Too, Someone...
6.10 So We Don’t Lose Anyone
6.1 Huddling Close Together
The evening sky after the rain sparkles in silver and pale crimson.
Figaro took Vincent’s letter with him, saying, I’ll hand this to Arthur.
Chloe keeps stealing glances at Oz’s room and sighing.
His red, swollen eyes are filled with sorrow — yet they’re tinted by the beauty of the sunset.
Chloe: ...Rustica. It’ll be okay, right? I won’t subconsciously curse Mister Vincent or anything, right?
This the third time he’s asked that question. Each time, Rustica responds kindly, shaking his head.
Rustica: It’ll be all right, Chloe. You haven’t cursed anyone. There’s no need for you to worry.
Chloe: But.... I’m not the good boy you think I am, Rustica......
Rustica: You’re a good boy, Chloe. Even now, you’re worried about your friend and his uncle.
Chloe: ....But maybe that’s because I’m looking out for my own interests.... Because I don’t want anyone to yell at me......
Chloe looks down weakly, his eyes distraught. Rustica strokes his vulnerable back.
Rustica: Even so, your concern is still kindness.
I can feel Chloe’s anxiety. But the sight of Chloe’s and Rustica’s shadows huddling close warms my heart; to me, it looks like hope.
I recall Mister Vincent’s words.
Wizards cannot live together in community.
And yet here they are — huddling close with such kindness.
Rustica notices my furrowed brows and smiles at me as he strokes Chloe’s back.
Rustica: Look, Sir Sage. There’s a beautiful sunset reflected in the puddle — it’s like a mirror.
Rustica is right. The light purple sky that has fallen to the ground glitters like a world of dreams.
I relax my brows and smile.
Akira: It’s beautiful. Thank you for pointing it out to me.
Rustica: You’re welcome. I was certain you’d enjoy it, Sir Sage. And I wanted you to smile.
Rustica says, gazing at me. I blush a little. His gentle eyes allow me to express what’s in my heart.
Akira: Is what Mister Vincent said true? That wizards cannot live together.....
Rustica: What do you think, Sir Sage? After seeing me and Chloe, who have traveled the world together?
Rustica’s teasing gaze brings me to my senses. That’s right. They’ve always been together.
Akira: You’re right.... I do think you can live together.
Rustica: That’s what I believe — with confidence.
Chloe looks visibly delighted.
Rustica: But if I were to draw a musical comparison... The fact is, the more instruments there are, the more difficult it is to perform a single song.
Of course: with all its instruments, a symphony seems far more complicated than a trio.
Rustica and Chloe traveled in a pair; that’s why they managed to stay together. But what if there were one hundred of them?
That’s when Rustica continues.
Rustica: Central would be Cain; East would be Faust. South would be Dr. Figaro, and North would be Bradley.
Akira: Huh....?
As I’m about to ask him what he means, I notice Chloe holding his breath.
He’s looking at Oz.
Akira: Oz. Where’s Arthur—......
Oz: He is returning to Granvelle Castle.
Oz sounds exhausted. He looks agitated, his bearing as haggard and weary as an old dog roaming around aimlessly after losing its home.
As I look up into the twilight sky, I catch sight of a figure on a broom as it flies away from the magic headquarters.
Chloe: Sir Oz, I’m so sorry...... It’s all my fault that Arthur—......
Met with the grief overflowing from Chloe’s purple eyes, Oz simply casts his gaze downwards before shaking his head.
Oz: Do not mistake your words. You are not at fault.
Chloe: ......But......
Oz: Even if he comes to regret it someday, you are not to blame.
Chloe nods gravely, still uncertain. Next to him, Rustica also bends into an appreciative bow.
Oz sweeps me a glance out of the corner of his eye, with a simple statement.
Oz: ......I need to speak with you.
Akira: Me? Okay. Then......
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6.2 Fate of the Stars
I find myself in Oz’s room, faster than I can suggest "let’s talk in either your room or mine."
Akira: ......You sure don’t waste time.
Oz: Sit.
Oz lowers himself into a chair, indicating for me to sit on the bed.
The fireplace leaps to life. Against the crackling of the flames, Oz hangs his head, his hands coming up to cradle his temples.
A deep sigh escapes him as he hunches his broad shoulders. I feel wholeheartedly sympathetic.
Akira: (......He must’ve been out of his mind with worry..... About Arthur’s promise......)
Regardless of how much Oz denies it, anyone could tell that he cares for Arthur.
In the hearth, the firewood crackles, sending sparks scattering. A faint smell of burnt kindling wafts through the air.
Before I can find the words to comfort Oz with, he abruptly launches into a confession.
Oz: ......Around the time Arthur returned to the Central castle, and blizzards engulfed every inch of the north, the twins received a prophecy.
"Arthur will be chosen as a Sage’s wizard, and lose his life in a battle against the < Great Catastrophe >."
The window panes rattle violently. The next thing I know, a gust of wind pounds noisily against the window.
The trees sway and creak as birds flee to the air. Behind the dark storm clouds, the setting sun burns in the sky.
Akira: (What did Oz just say......? A prophecy......?)
(Arthur is going to die......?)
Oz glares bitterly out of the window. His hands are balled into tight fists, his fingers shaking.
Oz: ......Do you think he has reached the castle yet?
Akira: Huh......?
Oz: I’m talking about Arthur.
Akira: Won’t it take him a little longer......?
Oz: ......I do not want to call down the storm before he arrives.
I recall the stories I've heard before: Oz’s emotions can inadvertently end up inciting the spirits and influencing the weather.
Oz: .......Once Arthur arrives, I will tell you everything.
Please — just wait a little longer.
I nod.
(Flashback)
Snow & White: ............
<< Noscomnia >>
Oz: ............
Snow: Oz.
White: Oz, dear.
Oz: .....What do you want?
Snow: How dreary you sound. Even nameless apparitions that crawl through cemetery grounds speak in far less somber tones than you do.
White: Somehow, the castle has turned bleak and stagnant, as if it has been submerged into a heavy darkness.
Oz: .............
White: ....... The time Arthur spent here almost feels like a dream.
Oz: Leave.
White: You really aren’t cute at all. It would do you far more good to go and bring Arthur back if you’re just going to take it out on us.
Snow: He’s always been uncute. And yet, something seemed to have changed after you started raising Arthur.
Did I simply imagine that, Oz?
Oz: .............
White: Oz. There is nothing that brings more sorrow and despair than a death which arrives without warning.
Perhaps it would bring you some measure of solace to learn what kind of ending awaits.
Oz: ......What are you talking about?
Snow & White: We have received a prophecy in our dreams.
Oz: ......A prophecy from the Northern twins, who have never been wrong.
Snow: Indeed. We possess the power to divine the future.
White: All is written in the stars. There is no room for change in the days to come.
Oz: ......I do not care. Those matters do not concern me......
......The child who awaits the budding flowers with anticipation, the child who wonders what tomorrow’s skies have in hold — he is no longer here.
Whatever fate has in store for me, I have no interest in it.
Snow: Pitiful child....... Has your heart really been so torn apart?
Oz: ............
Snow: We are fully acquainted with your disinterest in the workings of fate.
You do not think of yourself, nor of anything else.
White: You must have lived untrammeled by the weight of such concerns, distancing yourself from the world and knowing neither love nor hate.
For if your heart does not hold any treasures, it will not be vulnerable to any threat.
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6.3 The Bestowed Prophecy
Snow: Oz. The future we have foreseen does not concern your fate.
White: It is Arthur’s fate we have glimpsed. And that is why we have come to tell you, as the smallest gesture of mercy we can offer.
Snow: However, if you are loath to distress your heart any further, we will leave without a word.
White: Forget the child who grew up in this castle.
Oz: ............
.......What did you foresee? Are there shadows of evil lying in his journey ahead?
Snow: Arthur will be chosen as a Sage’s wizard representing Central Country.
White: Then, in a battle against the < Great Catastrophe >, he will die and be turned into stone.
Oz: ............
(Thunder and wind)
Oz: Arthur will.......
.....He will be turned into stone.......?
Snow: Indeed.
White: So it will be.
Oz: ............
.......I do not believe it. I do not trust a word you two say.
The battle against the < Great Catastrophe > is nothing more than a formality, not one where lives will be lost.
You said this yourselves in the past!
Snow: Nevertheless, that is what we have seen. The futures we foretell will not change.
White: You have precious little time remaining. Spend what you have left without regrets.
Oz: ............
......Arthur will die.......?
Arthur.......Will be taken by the moon?
.......I do not accept this........
Snow & White: Our prophecies have never been wrong.
Oz: .......I won’t accept it.......!
✦✧☾✧✦
Arthur: .......Hmm?
Did someone call for me? Maybe it was just my imagination.......
Today went well. I have a feeling that someday, I’ll be able to engage Uncle in a heart-to-heart exchange.
It just goes to show that sometimes, trust can only be gained if you’re willing to make some sacrifices.
.......Sir Oz scolded me, but.......
I missed it — it’s been so long since I heard his scolding voice.
✦✧☾✧✦
Oz: ...............
(Thunder)
As bolts of lightning streak through the darkness, the flames in the hearth flare up brightly before dying out.
I am struck speechless after Oz’s account.
Now that I think of it, Oz had tried to broach the matter of an ominous prophecy made by the twins, back when I first arrived at the magic headquarters.
Arthur: (I didn’t imagine that he meant Arthur.......)
Even if my mind understood what Oz was saying, my heart couldn’t keep up.
Why? If anything, that gentle prince’s smiling face seems further from death than any other existence in the entire world.
The boy who takes to the sky with his generous laughter. Even before we met, I always thought of Arthur as a friend.
I felt a close connection to him after hearing about him from the twins and reading through the former sage’s journal entries.
As much as I believe in Snow and White’s prophecies, I absolutely refuse to believe in a future where Arthur is destined to die.
Akira: ......Oz, even prophecies can be wrong, right......?
Oz: ......The twins’ prophecies have never been wrong. All of our fates are predetermined and written in the trajectory of the stars.
Akira: .......No way........ Even so........
Oz: I tried to resist fate. Despite scant knowledge of the logic behind it, I attempted to intervene with the power behind the workings of the world.
Again, Oz exhales deeply, attempting to pry his own clenched fists open.
He murmurs, his gaze falling to his own spread palm.
Oz: ......My attempts should have worked. I was chosen as a Central wizard, and the crest appeared on my body.
I became the substitute vessel for his fate, taking it upon myself. Or so I thought, until the new sage summoned Arthur.
Akira: You mean.......
Oz: That was you, Akira. ......In the end, I could not overturn fate.
Still struck speechless, a scene from the past flashes through my mind.
Back when we traveled to Northern Country to meet Oz, he uttered something when he caught sight of the crest on the back of Arthur’s hand.
"Why."
Akira: ......By substitute vessel, do you mean you took Arthur’s place by becoming a Central wizard?
That’s right. Mithra said as much too. Oz is a true Northern wizard to the core.
It’s strange that he was summoned as a Central wizard.
Oz: You could say that. I believed I could take on each battle against the < Great Catastrophe > and emerge unharmed.
I managed to overturn fate once; but you restored its original script.
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6.4 He Who Resists Fate
Akira: ......I........ I was the one who summoned Arthur.......?
Oz: I do not believe you intentionally invoked any power. You have no knowledge about the workings of this world.
But the Sage exists to guide wizards. If, by any chance, you know of a way to steer Arthur away from danger.......
Please — do not let him turn into stone. He has not even lived twenty years yet.......
He still doesn’t know anything of this world — the very world he’s always been eager to learn everything about.
My heart trembles at the sight of Oz’s earnest gaze.
Certainly, Oz and Arthur fell into each other’s lives under extraordinary circumstances.
Arthur still has his own parents, and Oz refuses the title of Arthur’s teacher. Their relationship is too unequal on various fronts for it to be called friendship.
And yet, they have shared irreplaceable time in each other’s company.
Akira: .......Thank you for telling me, Oz.......
I absolutely refuse to lose Arthur either.
I will do anything and everything that I can. I promise you.
Oz: ............
Akira: But where should I start...... Have you discussed this matter with anyone else?
Oz: No...... You are the first, Akira.
I lean forward, gripped by a sense of urgency and keen purpose.
Akira: Can we bring this up with the others? I won’t tell anyone you find disagreeable. But...
There might be others who hold some clues...... How about the teachers from each country?
After a brief silence, Oz nods.
Oz: ......If that is what the Sage insists.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next day, we hold a meeting with all the teachers.
Each of them reacts differently to Oz’s account.
Faust: .......How could that happen to Arthur.......
Faust’s eyes are wide in shock upon hearing Arthur’s prophesied death.
Faust regards Arthur as the descendant of someone for whom he harbors complicated feelings.
Still, in his gaze, I can read his fury at the prophecy foretelling Arthur’s death and his resolute determination to defy it.
Shylock: Sir Oz....... Thank you for sharing with us. It must’ve been difficult....
Shylock chooses to empathize with Oz, rather than express surprise at the prophecy.
He smiles gently, exuding both sincere sympathy and reassurance that everything will be all right.
From his smile, I sense his pride in being entrusted with such information.
Snow: ......Intervening with fate.......
White: ......What does that even mean.......
Having foreseen the prophecy themselves, the twins look simultaneously aghast and appalled at the brute strength of Oz’s magic.
Intervening with the power behind the < Great Catastrophe > in order to steal away the fate meant for Arthur.
Their mouths hang agape, stunned at Oz’s unimaginable actions.
Snow: We sensed that there was a reason behind your summoning as a Central wizard, but to think that you snatched the position by force.......
White: Are you certain the < Great Catastrophe >’s powers didn’t multiply precisely because of your interference?
Snow: You cannot change fate. By trying to force it astray, you have wrought great damage.
White: In the end, you could not change fate, and Arthur was chosen as a Sage’s wizard. Are we right, Oz?
Their interrogation resounds with censure. Figaro steps up to defend a silent Oz.
Figaro: There’s no point in berating him over what’s already been done. We don’t even know if any of that is true.
Figaro pacifies the twins, before turning toward Oz.
His gaze is as benevolent as a father’s or an older brother’s.
Figaro: Oz. It is as Sir Snow and Sir White say: you cannot change fate.
I have never witnessed a single one of their prophecies proven wrong. Not once, in all two thousand years of my life.
Knowing that, you still want to save Arthur, right?
Figaro’s tone is shockingly gentle.
In contrast to the harsh sarcasm he often directs at Oz’s actions, he sounds like he’s trying not to hurt him.
His thoughtful hazel eyes are filled with pity, austerity, and an affection akin to despair.
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6.5 The Time Remaining
Oz bitterly stares at his hands for some time, but eventually, he nods.
Oz: ....Yes.
Figaro releases a sigh with a soft smile on his lips.
Figaro: Since you’re asking so earnestly, I will do whatever I can to help.
Oz lifts his eyes and stares at Figaro.
Figaro: Even if we can’t change fate, maybe we can delay its arrival. Maybe the prophecy will come true in three thousand years.
Snow: It’s not that far off in the future.
Snow shakes his head. Figaro furrows his brows in irritation.
Figaro: Could you please be a bit more considerate? Look at Oz’s face. And we had extreme weather all night.
White: What benefit is there to empty consolation? You cannot overturn our prophecies.
Figaro: You never know with Oz. And Sir Sage is offering to help.
Shylock: I agree with Sir Figaro. If we can keep Sir Arthur out of harm’s way, tragedy will not approach him so easily.
Figaro: Exactly. We should all protect Arthur together. We can map out plans to remove him from the front lines.
At times, that will require us to act preemptively. I have some thoughts regarding Western Country and the wizard Nova....
Figaro suddenly pauses.
Because Faust, who has been sitting next to him this whole time, has grabbed his arm.
There’s insistence in his gaze.
He’s not trying to condemn him; rather, he seems perplexed and impatient, pressing him like he’s sounding an alarm....
Figaro’s eyes widen in surprise.
Figaro: What is it?
Faust: ..........
Faust nearly opens his mouth, but looks around the room, reluctant to broach the subject.
That’s when Figaro seems to catch on. He flashes a coddling smile.
He takes Faust’s arm and helps him up.
Figaro: Can we speak for a moment over there?
Faust: Wait, you should.... You should say it here.
Figaro: It’s fine. Come here. Let’s go.
Shylock: Are we keeping secrets now?
Faust: We are not.
Figaro: We are.
It’s a bizarre sight. Usually, Faust is on edge, with Figaro at a loss for how to respond.
But now, Faust is strained into silence by Figaro’s forceful smile.
They leave the room together.
✦✧☾✧✦
Figaro: ....I guess this is far enough.
You mustn't, Faust. You were about to tell them, weren’t you?
Faust: ....You should tell them too.
Figaro: What are you talking about?
Faust: What do you mean? ...I’m talking about your remaining lifespan. Unless you were lying.
Figaro: I wasn’t.
Faust: Then you really should.... Arthur’s life isn’t the only one in danger. At the very least, you should tell the twins and Oz.....
Figaro: I have no intention to.
Faust: But why!?
Figaro: Because I refuse to let them pity me.
Faust: ....Wh.....
Figaro: A certain witch once told me that she would probably die soon. I’m talking about Rutile and Mitile’s mother.
Since that day — no matter how much she smiled, no matter how happy she looked — I always pitied her.
Pity is scorn. I don’t want anyone to look at me like that. Especially not them.
Faust: ....Scorn....? You’re simply talking about affection. Aren’t they like family to you?
Figaro: They are not.
Faust: "It’ll be all right. Let’s save Arthur together." Oz and the others will say to you exactly what you said to them.
"It’ll be all right. Let’s save Figaro together." Let them say the same thing. What’s wrong with that!?
Figaro: They can’t protect me. I will probably die of old age. My body is beginning to grow weak.
No one can stop that. Every beginning has an end. My time has simply come.
But I don’t want anyone to realize that my end is near.
Faust: Then why did you tell me!?
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6.6 If We Can Save Him...
Figaro: ....I wonder why......
Faust: What!?
Figaro: You should figure it out for me. And when you find the answer, could you please share?
Faust: What are you saying....
Figaro: Shh.... You’re too loud. Let’s head back.
Faust: .........
Figaro: Don’t tell Oz and the others. All right?
Faust: .....What if I refuse?
Figaro: I’ll wipe your memories. Don’t make me do that.
Faust: .........
Figaro: Oh dear, please don’t make that face. I won’t die just yet. It’ll be all right.
✦✧☾✧✦
Shylock: I do wonder what secrets they’re sharing.....
Let me bring you new drinks before they return.
Akira: Thank you.
Snow: My, my. Let us help you out.
White: We might get extra scraps of fruit as a treat.
Shylock and the twins leave their seats, leaving Oz and I the only ones sitting.
Akira: I’m glad you were able to tell Figaro and the others.... And everyone’s so willing to cooperate.....
Oz: .....Yes.....
I try to think about how to continue the conversation — and that’s when Mithra’s words about Figaro cross my mind.
Figaro’s magic is growing weaker.
Akira: By the way, Oz... Have you noticed Figaro’s magic growing weaker?
Oz stares at me in silence.
Akira: Mithra mentioned something about it once.....
Oz: I, too, once interrogated him about it. Evidently he’s concealing his powers to make it easier for him to live in Southern Country.
Akira: Concealing... Ah. I see. So that they won’t realize he’s a Northern wizard.
I breathe a sigh of relief at Oz’s response. That’s right. Figaro is keeping his origins a secret from everyone in the South.
It’s just a trick to make his life easier.
Oz: ....Figaro probably wants to cast aside his past.
And I reside within that past.
Before I can ask him what he means, Figaro and Faust return.
Figaro looks happier than he did when he left; Faust looks like he’s been forced to swallow some bitter medicine.
Figaro: Sorry to keep you waiting.
Akira: Is everything okay? Do you still need to talk....?
Figaro: We’re done. Right, Faust?
Faust: ....... I.....
The sound of shattering glass echoes through the room.
In a haste, I look up to see Shylock hunched over on the ground.
His chest is ablaze.
Akira: His injury from the...!
Snow: Figaro, Sage!
White: Hurry, come this way!
Akira: Yes!
I rush to Shylock’s side.
Shylock: .....uugh.....
A crimson flame burns away at Shylock’s chest.
Faust worriedly peers into Shylock’s face, twisted in agony.
Faust: Are you okay, Shylock!? Oz, can you use your magic to....
Oz: I have tried previously, to no avail.
Figaro: If you can’t do it, neither can I. But Sir Sage is with us today.
Figaro turns around and looks at me.
Figaro: Sir Sage, you can nullify the effects of the’s curse, right? Please save him.
Akira: Yes....!
I nod, and grasp Shylock’s hands that are clutching at his chest.
Even as beads of sweat trickle down his forehead, Shylock forces a smile.
Shylock: I apologize, Sir Sage.....
Akira: Don’t force yourself to speak. I don’t know if it’ll work, but I’ll give it a shot!
By holding their hands like this, I helped Oz when he couldn’t use magic, and Mithra when he couldn’t sleep.
That’s why I thought I could succeed. I felt like I could save Shylock from his agonizing pain.
But that’s when I realize: the flames that looked like an illusion from afar are actually curling up from underneath Shylock’s pale skin.
His heart is really on fire. I freeze up.
Akira: (This has to be incredibly painful. I need to save him. But can I? But if I can’t, Shylock will....)
Figaro: Sir Sage. Calm down.
Akira: .....Yes....!
I grasp Shylock’s fingertips with all my might.
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6.7 Feeling His Pain
Shylock: ....ugh.... Uu.....
The flames won’t disappear. In a panic, I turn to Oz and Figaro, who look at each other in bewilderment.
I can feel the sweat on Shylock’s palms. His fingertips dig into my hands as he endures the unbearable pain.
But each time he comes to his senses, he releases my hands, trying not to hurt me.
I’m at a complete loss.
Akira: I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I can usually do it....
Figaro: Don’t worry, Sir Sage. Take deep breaths.
Faust. Sit here and act as a partition. Don’t let Sir Sage see what’s happening to Shylock.
Faust: Got it. Sage, look me in the eyes. Let’s count to ten together.
Faust’s body blocks my line of sight. I look at Faust, my hands still holding Shylock’s fingertips.
I can hear many voices criss-crossing through the air above me.
Figaro: Shylock. I have a suggestion: I can cut off your sense of pain, so you no longer feel anything.
But pain is a warning sign. It means I’ll steal away your powers for the moment. What will you do? Can you trust me?
Shylock: ....My pleasure and pain are my own.... Do not steal anything from me......
Figaro: Haha.... I do love that about you.
Shylock: .....Fufu..... This game of endurance is quite fun.... ...uugh.... Please, Sir Sage, don’t mind me....
I feel like I’m about to cry as he laughs, trying to conceal his pain. I grip his hands yet again.
Akira: I can do it! Just as I helped Oz and Mithra.....
Faust: Akira. It’s all right. We know how you’ve always saved us. Don’t panic.
Faust peers into my face as he rubs my back.
His warmth touches me so kindly that I begin to cry in earnest. Even though Shylock is the one who should feel like crying.
Akira: (Why? Why?)
(Just when I want to be useful....)
Snow: What if you touch the flame?
White: Perhaps you can extinguish it.
At the twins’ suggestion, I reflexively reach out to Shylock’s chest.
But the flames show no sign of dying down. Rather, in an instant, the fire seems to grow — and I feel like my fingers are about to get burned off.
Faust intercepts and grabs my hand before I can burn myself.
Faust: Akira....!
Oz: <<Vox Nox>>
Oz utters his spell.
Shylock’s head jolts as he’s released from his senses and passes out.
The flames continue to burn on his motionless body.
Figaro looks up at Oz in exasperation.
Figaro: Were you even listening? Shylock just said he didn’t want to let go of his senses or his self, you know?
Oz: So what? Shylock now feels no pain, and the Sage will not have to scream.
Figaro: All you did was cover up something you didn’t want to see. Without a care in the world for anyone’s pride.
Figaro’s voice is stern; Oz responds with an abrasive glare.
I finally return to my senses and take Faust’s hand.
Akira: Faust, I’m sorry! It’s my fault....
Faust: Don’t worry. I’m used to getting burned.
Figaro: .....Hang on, is that supposed to be funny?
Snow: I’m sorry, dear Sage.
White: We shouldn’t have suggested that when you were clearly in a panic.
Snow: But we were moved.
White: To see you care for us so deeply.
The twins smile in delight. Meanwhile, Faust gently carries Shylock to the sofa.
As he does, the flames smolder and quietly disappear, and Faust releases a sigh of relief.
The air is tense between Oz and Figaro.
And I don’t know how to feel.
Akira: (I couldn’t even save Shylock.....)
(How can I possibly save Arthur like this....?)
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6.8 Tracing His Tracks
Figaro: Don’t look so down, Sir Sage. Shylock will be all right now.
But it must’ve taken a toll on you too. Should we discuss the wizard Nova another day?
I shake my head. I didn’t want him to think of me as a weak, crying, helpless human.
Akira: No... I apologize for making you worry. Do tell us.
Figaro nods and uses magic to assemble a few documents.
The sheets of paper flutter into his hands like birds.
This must be what Mister Vincent handed him on the day that Arthur made his promise.
Figaro: I guess I’ll fill Shylock in later.... I managed to narrow down our clues to two spots.
The first is a club for military officers in Western Country. Looks like it’s a spot that Nicholas visited fairly often. There’ve been eyewitness accounts of a white-haired woman there.
Akira: Are you saying that’s Nova...?
Figaro: I can’t say for sure, but it’s worth looking into. Evidently she claimed she was from Adams Island and was looking to gather information about it.
Akira: Adams Island.... According to Murr, it sank to the bottom of the ocean because someone became infatuated with Shylock.....
Stunned, Figaro looks over his shoulder at Shylock.
Figaro: If you go crazy for him, you might wind up sinking a whole island...? What a guy.
Snow: You didn’t know?
White: Even though you’re so well-informed?
Figaro: I don’t know too much about what goes on in the Western Islands. Aren’t you the same, Oz, Faust?
Faust: Yes.
Oz: ..........
Figaro: Faust is such a good boy. Can you at least answer me?
Oz: I didn’t know.
Figaro: There were remnants of a summoning ritual on Borda Island, which lies near Adams Island. It’s highly likely that Nova was in the area.
And I want you guys to investigate — preferably, I want the Central wizards and the Western wizards to go together.
Faust: I see. It’s better to have Cain in the group to access the military club, and he knew Nicholas well.
Figaro: Of course, it might have the opposite effect — because he and Nicholas apparently didn’t get along.
The other hint is the wizards’ guild that once existed in Eastern Country.
Apparently, Nova was listed as an author to the "Co-prosperity Rulebook," which served as the guild regulations.
Faust: "Co-Prosperity Rulebook"? Are you saying that Nova created the wizards’ guild?
Figaro: I can’t say. But there seems to be a record lying in the City of Rain’s library management system.
Wizards’ Guild, City of Rain, Eastern Country. "Co-Prosperity Rulebook" committee: J. Page, H. Leroux, Q. Nova.
Oz: ....Couldn’t it just be a coincidence that they have the same name?
Figaro: That’s very possible. And if we investigate, we’ll find out for sure. Can I ask the Eastern wizards to take on the job?
Faust: I often go to the City of Rain. We’ll investigate. Can we get our hands on that book?
Figaro: Unfortunately, as it stands, it’s a book of legend. Only its publishing record remains.
According to rumor, it contains the rules we wizards must follow if we’re going to live in harmony together.
Faust: Hmph... Those rules must have been useless, since that guild no longer seems to exist.
Figaro: Presumably so. I say presumably because we don’t even know when it disappeared.
Faust: That’s suspicious.... We’ll look into the guild as well.
Snow: And what should the Northern wizards and Southern wizards do?
Figaro: We Southern wizards will do exactly what we told Vincent the other day.
We’ll interact with the people of Central Country’s capital.
If we can get more humans on our side, I’m sure it’ll help us forge a path of hope during dire times.
I don’t really have anything to ask of the Northern wizards. It’s more work getting you to listen to me anyway.
Snow: That’s not true!
White: We can be useful too!
Figaro: All right, then, please prepare for our battle against Nova.
I hear that even Mithra couldn’t defeat him in a one-on-one battle. That means we’re all cooked, save for Oz.
Snow: ....Hmph. We would never be defeated by some nameless wizard.
White: We’ll show you — and this Nova guy too.
Figaro: You’re so reliable. Sir Sage, that’s it from me. The decision is in your hands.
You can accept my suggestion, or we can meet again and decide what to do from scratch. We can also follow any suggestions you have.
What would you like to do?
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6.9 Here, Too, Someone...
The wizard Nova who tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe >.
If we can catch him, maybe we can figure out why the < Great Catastrophe > attacked with far greater force than it did in years prior.
Maybe we’ll learn how to cure the bizarre injuries left by the < Great Catastrophe >; maybe we’ll learn what Nova’s goals are.
I grip my hands and look up at Figaro.
Akira: I would like to search for Nova. From both ends — from Western Country and Eastern Country.
Figaro: Got it. I’ll make arrangements tomorrow.
I’ll carry Shylock. You should rest up, Sir Sage.
Akira: .........
Figaro: What’s wrong?
Akira: I was just... So useless.... I just want to know how to control the Sage’s powers.
Figaro’s gaze is kind and sympathetic; he looks like he’s cheering up a sullen student.
Before he can say anything, though, Snow and White speak up.
Snow: No need to worry, Sage. The sage’s powers have been a mystery since ancient times.
White: Not a single sage has managed to control their powers. You’re doing everything you can do.
Akira: Really....?
Snow: Indeed, indeed.
White: What a kind child you are.
Snow and White’s gentle voices make me choke up again. I bite my lip.
Their small palms stroke my head and back, giving me a sense of ease.
But that’s when I catch sight of something bizarre.
For just one moment, Figaro sneers, casting a scornful gaze at the twins.
No: he’s not sneering. What I’m seeing is a mixture of contempt, anger, and sorrow.... That’s right. He’s suspicious.
Here, too, is someone who can’t trust his neighbor.
✦✧☾✧✦
Rutile: ..........
Lennox: What are you doing here, Rutile?
Rutile: I couldn’t sleep... Mister Leno, what about you?
Lennox: I got a little hungry.....
Nero: I’m cooking a midnight snack. Just a bite of something delicious, and a bit of sweet wine.
Rutile: That sounds delicious! May I join you?
Nero: Of course.
Rutile: Mister Leno, Mister Nero. Do you remember what Prince Vincent said to us?
Lennox: Hm?
Rutile: That wizards can’t live together.... Do you think he’s right?
Lennox: Well... I can’t say he’s completely wrong.
Southern Country is doing quite well. But according to Dr. Figaro, that’s because it’s still a developing country.
Once our lifestyles stabilize and people start to accumulate wealth — that’s when suspicion flourishes.
And if there’s a burglary, the first suspects will be the wizards in the community.
Rutile: ....Do you think that means we can’t be together either?
Lennox: I can’t say.... What do you think, Nero?
Nero: I.... Can’t say. Because I’m better at being alone.
Being with someone else means changing your shape to align with theirs. It means your soul can’t exist in its true form.
When you try to make a perfect match, when you try to stick to someone like a piece in a puzzle... You wind up twisting your own shape, or trying to change someone else’s by force.
I don’t wanna live like that. That’s why I refuse to live with others.
Rutile: But Mister Nero, isn’t there a chance that you and someone else can co-exist in your true shapes?
Nero: Who knows. I'm always pulling the short straw, you see.
Lennox: Wizards can live alone. And the stronger the wizard, the less they need to get along with others.
Because they can control nature with magic; they can subjugate the world to match their temperament.
Rutile: Forcing the world to match your temperament.... That sounds incredible.
Lennox: ....Yes.... If you can simply exist in the world of your dreams....
Maybe it’s easier to live alone than to live with others.
Nero: Well.... No need to get all serious or stuffy about it.
If we can just enjoy the quiet nights when we can be together — if we can just chat and have a good time — then that’s enough for me.
Rutile: You’re right.... Cheers.
Lennox: Cheers.
Nero: Cheers.
✦✧☾✧✦
Unable to sleep, I go for a walk around the courtyard that night.
The night breeze is cold and gentle. I turn to gaze up at the moon when I catch sight of another figure.
It’s Rustica.
Rustica: Good evening, Sir Sage. ....You look quite exhausted. Are you all right?
Akira: Yes, I’m fine. Thank you, Rustica.....
Rustica: Please don’t hold back. Let me offer you a beautiful song to soothe your heart, Sir Sage.
Music. As Rustica prepares to cast his spell, I think about what he mentioned yesterday.
Akira: ....That’s right..... We were talking about symphonies. You mentioned that musical pieces grow more difficult to play when there are more instruments involved.
We were interrupted by Oz’s sudden arrival, but do you recall what you meant to say?
Rustica: I do. We were talking about how instruments are similar to wizards.
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6.10 So We Don’t Lose Anyone
Akira: ....Were we?
Rustica: Were we not? Each and every instrument possesses its own unique sound.
Of course, an instrument can make music on its own. There’s no need for it to complement the sounds of other instruments.
Doesn’t that remind you of wizards?
When he puts it that way — he’s right. Strong personalities; powerful sounds. A timbre that won’t make space for other sounds....
For the most part, I think that’s fine. Because there are times when I hate working in groups too.
But if we’re going up against a tremendously powerful enemy....
If there’s something we can do to avoid losing any one of us.
Akira: ....What do we need to make a successful symphony?
Rustica smiles gently.
His tranquil, unwavering eyes are like those of a prophet.
Rustica: There are several factors, but the most essential of them all would be a conductor.
Akira: ...A conductor.....
Rustica: Indeed. A skilled conductor knows how to honor every sound, while restraining and unleashing each one at the right time....
To create harmony.
A conductor needs to know the good and bad of every instrument.
In order to create a vibrant orchestra that layers timbre upon timbre....
They need to be accommodating of all sounds, yet capable of cold calculation. Shh, quiet now.... And now, unleash!
Out of nowhere, I hear cymbals clashing, and my heart nearly leaps out of my body.
Rustica: Pardon me. It looks like I’ve surprised you.
Akira: N-not at all....
Rustica: The conductor’s job is to give commands to each person for the sake of the others — in order to create music for all.
I feel my heart beating faster — and it’s not just from surprise.
Isn’t this ability to conduct what I — what the Sage — needs?
Even if I can’t take on that role just yet, if I can learn from a skilled conductor who knows how to create harmony....
Then maybe, even wizards who can’t live together can co-exist for a brief moment in time.
Akira: Rustica, may I ask you one more question?
Rustica: Of course.
Akira: Assuming everyone in the magic headquarters knows the ins and outs of every instrument....
Who would you say is best suited to be a conductor?
Rustica: Central would be Cain; East would be Faust. South would be Dr. Figaro, and North would be Bradley.
These are the names that came up the other day.
As he sees my eyes widen, Rustica tilts his head in surprise.
Rustica: ...Oh? Did I mention this before?
Akira: Rustica, what about the West? Who would you say is most suited to be the conductor of Western Country?
He considers it for a moment, before smiling.
Rustica: That would probably be me.
Akira: ....I see.... I apologize if this comes off as rude, but what about Shylock?
Rustica flashes me a confident smile.
His confidence doesn’t concern his own abilities — rather, it’s directed at his dear friend.
Rustica: Shylock. My noble friend would never take our beautiful, unique personalities....
And synchronize them into one.
He is someone who finds richness and beauty in the scattered and the twisted.
Someone who loves free souls as they exist in their natural form.
Perfection, victory, accomplishments.... Shylock refuses to decorate the shelves of his shop with the things that delight us and make us feel at peace.
Imperfection, loss, and the unexplored....
Every last beautiful being who was not rewarded because they existed as themselves.
Shylock loves such souls from the bottom of his heart, paying them his deepest respects.
I believe he would be better than most at performing the role of a conductor.
But it would hurt his soul. Because he does not wish to choose the "right" sound and sort everyone into place.
Akira: ....But you’re good at that, Rustica?
Rustica bows respectfully.
A somewhat genteel but very reliable gesture of a noble.
Brandishing a smile more charming than a shooting star, Rustica proffers me a wink.
Rustica: I am a musician, after all.
✦✧☾✧✦
That night, I....
Prepare five copies of the Sage’s Manual.
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Chapter 5 << | index | >> Chapter 7
Chapter 5 << | index | >> Chapter 7
Chapter 6: Following the Fate of the Stars
6.1 Huddling Close Together
6.2 Fate of the Stars
6.3 The Bestowed Prophecy
6.4 He Who Resists Fate
6.5 The Time Remaining
6.6 If We Can Save Him...
6.7 Feeling His Pain
6.8 Tracing His Tracks
6.9 Here, Too, Someone...
6.10 So We Don’t Lose Anyone
6.1 Huddling Close Together
The evening sky after the rain sparkles in silver and pale crimson.
Figaro took Vincent’s letter with him, saying, I’ll hand this to Arthur.
Chloe keeps stealing glances at Oz’s room and sighing.
His red, swollen eyes are filled with sorrow — yet they’re tinted by the beauty of the sunset.
Chloe: ...Rustica. It’ll be okay, right? I won’t subconsciously curse Mister Vincent or anything, right?
This the third time he’s asked that question. Each time, Rustica responds kindly, shaking his head.
Rustica: It’ll be all right, Chloe. You haven’t cursed anyone. There’s no need for you to worry.
Chloe: But.... I’m not the good boy you think I am, Rustica......
Rustica: You’re a good boy, Chloe. Even now, you’re worried about your friend and his uncle.
Chloe: ....But maybe that’s because I’m looking out for my own interests.... Because I don’t want anyone to yell at me......
Chloe looks down weakly, his eyes distraught. Rustica strokes his vulnerable back.
Rustica: Even so, your concern is still kindness.
I can feel Chloe’s anxiety. But the sight of Chloe’s and Rustica’s shadows huddling close warms my heart; to me, it looks like hope.
I recall Mister Vincent’s words.
Wizards cannot live together in community.
And yet here they are — huddling close with such kindness.
Rustica notices my furrowed brows and smiles at me as he strokes Chloe’s back.
Rustica: Look, Sir Sage. There’s a beautiful sunset reflected in the puddle — it’s like a mirror.
Rustica is right. The light purple sky that has fallen to the ground glitters like a world of dreams.
I relax my brows and smile.
Akira: It’s beautiful. Thank you for pointing it out to me.
Rustica: You’re welcome. I was certain you’d enjoy it, Sir Sage. And I wanted you to smile.
Rustica says, gazing at me. I blush a little. His gentle eyes allow me to express what’s in my heart.
Akira: Is what Mister Vincent said true? That wizards cannot live together.....
Rustica: What do you think, Sir Sage? After seeing me and Chloe, who have traveled the world together?
Rustica’s teasing gaze brings me to my senses. That’s right. They’ve always been together.
Akira: You’re right.... I do think you can live together.
Rustica: That’s what I believe — with confidence.
Chloe looks visibly delighted.
Rustica: But if I were to draw a musical comparison... The fact is, the more instruments there are, the more difficult it is to perform a single song.
Of course: with all its instruments, a symphony seems far more complicated than a trio.
Rustica and Chloe traveled in a pair; that’s why they managed to stay together. But what if there were one hundred of them?
That’s when Rustica continues.
Rustica: Central would be Cain; East would be Faust. South would be Dr. Figaro, and North would be Bradley.
Akira: Huh....?
As I’m about to ask him what he means, I notice Chloe holding his breath.
He’s looking at Oz.
Akira: Oz. Where’s Arthur—......
Oz: He is returning to Granvelle Castle.
Oz sounds exhausted. He looks agitated, his bearing as haggard and weary as an old dog roaming around aimlessly after losing its home.
As I look up into the twilight sky, I catch sight of a figure on a broom as it flies away from the magic headquarters.
Chloe: Sir Oz, I’m so sorry...... It’s all my fault that Arthur—......
Met with the grief overflowing from Chloe’s purple eyes, Oz simply casts his gaze downwards before shaking his head.
Oz: Do not mistake your words. You are not at fault.
Chloe: ......But......
Oz: Even if he comes to regret it someday, you are not to blame.
Chloe nods gravely, still uncertain. Next to him, Rustica also bends into an appreciative bow.
Oz sweeps me a glance out of the corner of his eye, with a simple statement.
Oz: ......I need to speak with you.
Akira: Me? Okay. Then......
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6.2 Fate of the Stars
I find myself in Oz’s room, faster than I can suggest "let’s talk in either your room or mine."
Akira: ......You sure don’t waste time.
Oz: Sit.
Oz lowers himself into a chair, indicating for me to sit on the bed.
The fireplace leaps to life. Against the crackling of the flames, Oz hangs his head, his hands coming up to cradle his temples.
A deep sigh escapes him as he hunches his broad shoulders. I feel wholeheartedly sympathetic.
Akira: (......He must’ve been out of his mind with worry..... About Arthur’s promise......)
Regardless of how much Oz denies it, anyone could tell that he cares for Arthur.
In the hearth, the firewood crackles, sending sparks scattering. A faint smell of burnt kindling wafts through the air.
Before I can find the words to comfort Oz with, he abruptly launches into a confession.
Oz: ......Around the time Arthur returned to the Central castle, and blizzards engulfed every inch of the north, the twins received a prophecy.
"Arthur will be chosen as a Sage’s wizard, and lose his life in a battle against the < Great Catastrophe >."
The window panes rattle violently. The next thing I know, a gust of wind pounds noisily against the window.
The trees sway and creak as birds flee to the air. Behind the dark storm clouds, the setting sun burns in the sky.
Akira: (What did Oz just say......? A prophecy......?)
(Arthur is going to die......?)
Oz glares bitterly out of the window. His hands are balled into tight fists, his fingers shaking.
Oz: ......Do you think he has reached the castle yet?
Akira: Huh......?
Oz: I’m talking about Arthur.
Akira: Won’t it take him a little longer......?
Oz: ......I do not want to call down the storm before he arrives.
I recall the stories I've heard before: Oz’s emotions can inadvertently end up inciting the spirits and influencing the weather.
Oz: .......Once Arthur arrives, I will tell you everything.
Please — just wait a little longer.
I nod.
(Flashback)
Snow & White: ............
<< Noscomnia >>
Oz: ............
Snow: Oz.
White: Oz, dear.
Oz: .....What do you want?
Snow: How dreary you sound. Even nameless apparitions that crawl through cemetery grounds speak in far less somber tones than you do.
White: Somehow, the castle has turned bleak and stagnant, as if it has been submerged into a heavy darkness.
Oz: .............
White: ....... The time Arthur spent here almost feels like a dream.
Oz: Leave.
White: You really aren’t cute at all. It would do you far more good to go and bring Arthur back if you’re just going to take it out on us.
Snow: He’s always been uncute. And yet, something seemed to have changed after you started raising Arthur.
Did I simply imagine that, Oz?
Oz: .............
White: Oz. There is nothing that brings more sorrow and despair than a death which arrives without warning.
Perhaps it would bring you some measure of solace to learn what kind of ending awaits.
Oz: ......What are you talking about?
Snow & White: We have received a prophecy in our dreams.
Oz: ......A prophecy from the Northern twins, who have never been wrong.
Snow: Indeed. We possess the power to divine the future.
White: All is written in the stars. There is no room for change in the days to come.
Oz: ......I do not care. Those matters do not concern me......
......The child who awaits the budding flowers with anticipation, the child who wonders what tomorrow’s skies have in hold — he is no longer here.
Whatever fate has in store for me, I have no interest in it.
Snow: Pitiful child....... Has your heart really been so torn apart?
Oz: ............
Snow: We are fully acquainted with your disinterest in the workings of fate.
You do not think of yourself, nor of anything else.
White: You must have lived untrammeled by the weight of such concerns, distancing yourself from the world and knowing neither love nor hate.
For if your heart does not hold any treasures, it will not be vulnerable to any threat.
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6.3 The Bestowed Prophecy
Snow: Oz. The future we have foreseen does not concern your fate.
White: It is Arthur’s fate we have glimpsed. And that is why we have come to tell you, as the smallest gesture of mercy we can offer.
Snow: However, if you are loath to distress your heart any further, we will leave without a word.
White: Forget the child who grew up in this castle.
Oz: ............
.......What did you foresee? Are there shadows of evil lying in his journey ahead?
Snow: Arthur will be chosen as a Sage’s wizard representing Central Country.
White: Then, in a battle against the < Great Catastrophe >, he will die and be turned into stone.
Oz: ............
(Thunder and wind)
Oz: Arthur will.......
.....He will be turned into stone.......?
Snow: Indeed.
White: So it will be.
Oz: ............
.......I do not believe it. I do not trust a word you two say.
The battle against the < Great Catastrophe > is nothing more than a formality, not one where lives will be lost.
You said this yourselves in the past!
Snow: Nevertheless, that is what we have seen. The futures we foretell will not change.
White: You have precious little time remaining. Spend what you have left without regrets.
Oz: ............
......Arthur will die.......?
Arthur.......Will be taken by the moon?
.......I do not accept this........
Snow & White: Our prophecies have never been wrong.
Oz: .......I won’t accept it.......!
✦✧☾✧✦
Arthur: .......Hmm?
Did someone call for me? Maybe it was just my imagination.......
Today went well. I have a feeling that someday, I’ll be able to engage Uncle in a heart-to-heart exchange.
It just goes to show that sometimes, trust can only be gained if you’re willing to make some sacrifices.
.......Sir Oz scolded me, but.......
I missed it — it’s been so long since I heard his scolding voice.
✦✧☾✧✦
Oz: ...............
(Thunder)
As bolts of lightning streak through the darkness, the flames in the hearth flare up brightly before dying out.
I am struck speechless after Oz’s account.
Now that I think of it, Oz had tried to broach the matter of an ominous prophecy made by the twins, back when I first arrived at the magic headquarters.
Arthur: (I didn’t imagine that he meant Arthur.......)
Even if my mind understood what Oz was saying, my heart couldn’t keep up.
Why? If anything, that gentle prince’s smiling face seems further from death than any other existence in the entire world.
The boy who takes to the sky with his generous laughter. Even before we met, I always thought of Arthur as a friend.
I felt a close connection to him after hearing about him from the twins and reading through the former sage’s journal entries.
As much as I believe in Snow and White’s prophecies, I absolutely refuse to believe in a future where Arthur is destined to die.
Akira: ......Oz, even prophecies can be wrong, right......?
Oz: ......The twins’ prophecies have never been wrong. All of our fates are predetermined and written in the trajectory of the stars.
Akira: .......No way........ Even so........
Oz: I tried to resist fate. Despite scant knowledge of the logic behind it, I attempted to intervene with the power behind the workings of the world.
Again, Oz exhales deeply, attempting to pry his own clenched fists open.
He murmurs, his gaze falling to his own spread palm.
Oz: ......My attempts should have worked. I was chosen as a Central wizard, and the crest appeared on my body.
I became the substitute vessel for his fate, taking it upon myself. Or so I thought, until the new sage summoned Arthur.
Akira: You mean.......
Oz: That was you, Akira. ......In the end, I could not overturn fate.
Still struck speechless, a scene from the past flashes through my mind.
Back when we traveled to Northern Country to meet Oz, he uttered something when he caught sight of the crest on the back of Arthur’s hand.
"Why."
Akira: ......By substitute vessel, do you mean you took Arthur’s place by becoming a Central wizard?
That’s right. Mithra said as much too. Oz is a true Northern wizard to the core.
It’s strange that he was summoned as a Central wizard.
Oz: You could say that. I believed I could take on each battle against the < Great Catastrophe > and emerge unharmed.
I managed to overturn fate once; but you restored its original script.
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6.4 He Who Resists Fate
Akira: ......I........ I was the one who summoned Arthur.......?
Oz: I do not believe you intentionally invoked any power. You have no knowledge about the workings of this world.
But the Sage exists to guide wizards. If, by any chance, you know of a way to steer Arthur away from danger.......
Please — do not let him turn into stone. He has not even lived twenty years yet.......
He still doesn’t know anything of this world — the very world he’s always been eager to learn everything about.
My heart trembles at the sight of Oz’s earnest gaze.
Certainly, Oz and Arthur fell into each other’s lives under extraordinary circumstances.
Arthur still has his own parents, and Oz refuses the title of Arthur’s teacher. Their relationship is too unequal on various fronts for it to be called friendship.
And yet, they have shared irreplaceable time in each other’s company.
Akira: .......Thank you for telling me, Oz.......
I absolutely refuse to lose Arthur either.
I will do anything and everything that I can. I promise you.
Oz: ............
Akira: But where should I start...... Have you discussed this matter with anyone else?
Oz: No...... You are the first, Akira.
I lean forward, gripped by a sense of urgency and keen purpose.
Akira: Can we bring this up with the others? I won’t tell anyone you find disagreeable. But...
There might be others who hold some clues...... How about the teachers from each country?
After a brief silence, Oz nods.
Oz: ......If that is what the Sage insists.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next day, we hold a meeting with all the teachers.
Each of them reacts differently to Oz’s account.
Faust: .......How could that happen to Arthur.......
Faust’s eyes are wide in shock upon hearing Arthur’s prophesied death.
Faust regards Arthur as the descendant of someone for whom he harbors complicated feelings.
Still, in his gaze, I can read his fury at the prophecy foretelling Arthur’s death and his resolute determination to defy it.
Shylock: Sir Oz....... Thank you for sharing with us. It must’ve been difficult....
Shylock chooses to empathize with Oz, rather than express surprise at the prophecy.
He smiles gently, exuding both sincere sympathy and reassurance that everything will be all right.
From his smile, I sense his pride in being entrusted with such information.
Snow: ......Intervening with fate.......
White: ......What does that even mean.......
Having foreseen the prophecy themselves, the twins look simultaneously aghast and appalled at the brute strength of Oz’s magic.
Intervening with the power behind the < Great Catastrophe > in order to steal away the fate meant for Arthur.
Their mouths hang agape, stunned at Oz’s unimaginable actions.
Snow: We sensed that there was a reason behind your summoning as a Central wizard, but to think that you snatched the position by force.......
White: Are you certain the < Great Catastrophe >’s powers didn’t multiply precisely because of your interference?
Snow: You cannot change fate. By trying to force it astray, you have wrought great damage.
White: In the end, you could not change fate, and Arthur was chosen as a Sage’s wizard. Are we right, Oz?
Their interrogation resounds with censure. Figaro steps up to defend a silent Oz.
Figaro: There’s no point in berating him over what’s already been done. We don’t even know if any of that is true.
Figaro pacifies the twins, before turning toward Oz.
His gaze is as benevolent as a father’s or an older brother’s.
Figaro: Oz. It is as Sir Snow and Sir White say: you cannot change fate.
I have never witnessed a single one of their prophecies proven wrong. Not once, in all two thousand years of my life.
Knowing that, you still want to save Arthur, right?
Figaro’s tone is shockingly gentle.
In contrast to the harsh sarcasm he often directs at Oz’s actions, he sounds like he’s trying not to hurt him.
His thoughtful hazel eyes are filled with pity, austerity, and an affection akin to despair.
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6.5 The Time Remaining
Oz bitterly stares at his hands for some time, but eventually, he nods.
Oz: ....Yes.
Figaro releases a sigh with a soft smile on his lips.
Figaro: Since you’re asking so earnestly, I will do whatever I can to help.
Oz lifts his eyes and stares at Figaro.
Figaro: Even if we can’t change fate, maybe we can delay its arrival. Maybe the prophecy will come true in three thousand years.
Snow: It’s not that far off in the future.
Snow shakes his head. Figaro furrows his brows in irritation.
Figaro: Could you please be a bit more considerate? Look at Oz’s face. And we had extreme weather all night.
White: What benefit is there to empty consolation? You cannot overturn our prophecies.
Figaro: You never know with Oz. And Sir Sage is offering to help.
Shylock: I agree with Sir Figaro. If we can keep Sir Arthur out of harm’s way, tragedy will not approach him so easily.
Figaro: Exactly. We should all protect Arthur together. We can map out plans to remove him from the front lines.
At times, that will require us to act preemptively. I have some thoughts regarding Western Country and the wizard Nova....
Figaro suddenly pauses.
Because Faust, who has been sitting next to him this whole time, has grabbed his arm.
There’s insistence in his gaze.
He’s not trying to condemn him; rather, he seems perplexed and impatient, pressing him like he’s sounding an alarm....
Figaro’s eyes widen in surprise.
Figaro: What is it?
Faust: ..........
Faust nearly opens his mouth, but looks around the room, reluctant to broach the subject.
That’s when Figaro seems to catch on. He flashes a coddling smile.
He takes Faust’s arm and helps him up.
Figaro: Can we speak for a moment over there?
Faust: Wait, you should.... You should say it here.
Figaro: It’s fine. Come here. Let’s go.
Shylock: Are we keeping secrets now?
Faust: We are not.
Figaro: We are.
It’s a bizarre sight. Usually, Faust is on edge, with Figaro at a loss for how to respond.
But now, Faust is strained into silence by Figaro’s forceful smile.
They leave the room together.
✦✧☾✧✦
Figaro: ....I guess this is far enough.
You mustn't, Faust. You were about to tell them, weren’t you?
Faust: ....You should tell them too.
Figaro: What are you talking about?
Faust: What do you mean? ...I’m talking about your remaining lifespan. Unless you were lying.
Figaro: I wasn’t.
Faust: Then you really should.... Arthur’s life isn’t the only one in danger. At the very least, you should tell the twins and Oz.....
Figaro: I have no intention to.
Faust: But why!?
Figaro: Because I refuse to let them pity me.
Faust: ....Wh.....
Figaro: A certain witch once told me that she would probably die soon. I’m talking about Rutile and Mitile’s mother.
Since that day — no matter how much she smiled, no matter how happy she looked — I always pitied her.
Pity is scorn. I don’t want anyone to look at me like that. Especially not them.
Faust: ....Scorn....? You’re simply talking about affection. Aren’t they like family to you?
Figaro: They are not.
Faust: "It’ll be all right. Let’s save Arthur together." Oz and the others will say to you exactly what you said to them.
"It’ll be all right. Let’s save Figaro together." Let them say the same thing. What’s wrong with that!?
Figaro: They can’t protect me. I will probably die of old age. My body is beginning to grow weak.
No one can stop that. Every beginning has an end. My time has simply come.
But I don’t want anyone to realize that my end is near.
Faust: Then why did you tell me!?
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6.6 If We Can Save Him...
Figaro: ....I wonder why......
Faust: What!?
Figaro: You should figure it out for me. And when you find the answer, could you please share?
Faust: What are you saying....
Figaro: Shh.... You’re too loud. Let’s head back.
Faust: .........
Figaro: Don’t tell Oz and the others. All right?
Faust: .....What if I refuse?
Figaro: I’ll wipe your memories. Don’t make me do that.
Faust: .........
Figaro: Oh dear, please don’t make that face. I won’t die just yet. It’ll be all right.
✦✧☾✧✦
Shylock: I do wonder what secrets they’re sharing.....
Let me bring you new drinks before they return.
Akira: Thank you.
Snow: My, my. Let us help you out.
White: We might get extra scraps of fruit as a treat.
Shylock and the twins leave their seats, leaving Oz and I the only ones sitting.
Akira: I’m glad you were able to tell Figaro and the others.... And everyone’s so willing to cooperate.....
Oz: .....Yes.....
I try to think about how to continue the conversation — and that’s when Mithra’s words about Figaro cross my mind.
Figaro’s magic is growing weaker.
Akira: By the way, Oz... Have you noticed Figaro’s magic growing weaker?
Oz stares at me in silence.
Akira: Mithra mentioned something about it once.....
Oz: I, too, once interrogated him about it. Evidently he’s concealing his powers to make it easier for him to live in Southern Country.
Akira: Concealing... Ah. I see. So that they won’t realize he’s a Northern wizard.
I breathe a sigh of relief at Oz’s response. That’s right. Figaro is keeping his origins a secret from everyone in the South.
It’s just a trick to make his life easier.
Oz: ....Figaro probably wants to cast aside his past.
And I reside within that past.
Before I can ask him what he means, Figaro and Faust return.
Figaro looks happier than he did when he left; Faust looks like he’s been forced to swallow some bitter medicine.
Figaro: Sorry to keep you waiting.
Akira: Is everything okay? Do you still need to talk....?
Figaro: We’re done. Right, Faust?
Faust: ....... I.....
The sound of shattering glass echoes through the room.
In a haste, I look up to see Shylock hunched over on the ground.
His chest is ablaze.
Akira: His injury from the
Snow: Figaro, Sage!
White: Hurry, come this way!
Akira: Yes!
I rush to Shylock’s side.
Shylock: .....uugh.....
A crimson flame burns away at Shylock’s chest.
Faust worriedly peers into Shylock’s face, twisted in agony.
Faust: Are you okay, Shylock!? Oz, can you use your magic to....
Oz: I have tried previously, to no avail.
Figaro: If you can’t do it, neither can I. But Sir Sage is with us today.
Figaro turns around and looks at me.
Figaro: Sir Sage, you can nullify the effects of the
Akira: Yes....!
I nod, and grasp Shylock’s hands that are clutching at his chest.
Even as beads of sweat trickle down his forehead, Shylock forces a smile.
Shylock: I apologize, Sir Sage.....
Akira: Don’t force yourself to speak. I don’t know if it’ll work, but I’ll give it a shot!
By holding their hands like this, I helped Oz when he couldn’t use magic, and Mithra when he couldn’t sleep.
That’s why I thought I could succeed. I felt like I could save Shylock from his agonizing pain.
But that’s when I realize: the flames that looked like an illusion from afar are actually curling up from underneath Shylock’s pale skin.
His heart is really on fire. I freeze up.
Akira: (This has to be incredibly painful. I need to save him. But can I? But if I can’t, Shylock will....)
Figaro: Sir Sage. Calm down.
Akira: .....Yes....!
I grasp Shylock’s fingertips with all my might.
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6.7 Feeling His Pain
Shylock: ....ugh.... Uu.....
The flames won’t disappear. In a panic, I turn to Oz and Figaro, who look at each other in bewilderment.
I can feel the sweat on Shylock’s palms. His fingertips dig into my hands as he endures the unbearable pain.
But each time he comes to his senses, he releases my hands, trying not to hurt me.
I’m at a complete loss.
Akira: I’m sorry, I’m sorry! I can usually do it....
Figaro: Don’t worry, Sir Sage. Take deep breaths.
Faust. Sit here and act as a partition. Don’t let Sir Sage see what’s happening to Shylock.
Faust: Got it. Sage, look me in the eyes. Let’s count to ten together.
Faust’s body blocks my line of sight. I look at Faust, my hands still holding Shylock’s fingertips.
I can hear many voices criss-crossing through the air above me.
Figaro: Shylock. I have a suggestion: I can cut off your sense of pain, so you no longer feel anything.
But pain is a warning sign. It means I’ll steal away your powers for the moment. What will you do? Can you trust me?
Shylock: ....My pleasure and pain are my own.... Do not steal anything from me......
Figaro: Haha.... I do love that about you.
Shylock: .....Fufu..... This game of endurance is quite fun.... ...uugh.... Please, Sir Sage, don’t mind me....
I feel like I’m about to cry as he laughs, trying to conceal his pain. I grip his hands yet again.
Akira: I can do it! Just as I helped Oz and Mithra.....
Faust: Akira. It’s all right. We know how you’ve always saved us. Don’t panic.
Faust peers into my face as he rubs my back.
His warmth touches me so kindly that I begin to cry in earnest. Even though Shylock is the one who should feel like crying.
Akira: (Why? Why?)
(Just when I want to be useful....)
Snow: What if you touch the flame?
White: Perhaps you can extinguish it.
At the twins’ suggestion, I reflexively reach out to Shylock’s chest.
But the flames show no sign of dying down. Rather, in an instant, the fire seems to grow — and I feel like my fingers are about to get burned off.
Faust intercepts and grabs my hand before I can burn myself.
Faust: Akira....!
Oz: <<Vox Nox>>
Oz utters his spell.
Shylock’s head jolts as he’s released from his senses and passes out.
The flames continue to burn on his motionless body.
Figaro looks up at Oz in exasperation.
Figaro: Were you even listening? Shylock just said he didn’t want to let go of his senses or his self, you know?
Oz: So what? Shylock now feels no pain, and the Sage will not have to scream.
Figaro: All you did was cover up something you didn’t want to see. Without a care in the world for anyone’s pride.
Figaro’s voice is stern; Oz responds with an abrasive glare.
I finally return to my senses and take Faust’s hand.
Akira: Faust, I’m sorry! It’s my fault....
Faust: Don’t worry. I’m used to getting burned.
Figaro: .....Hang on, is that supposed to be funny?
Snow: I’m sorry, dear Sage.
White: We shouldn’t have suggested that when you were clearly in a panic.
Snow: But we were moved.
White: To see you care for us so deeply.
The twins smile in delight. Meanwhile, Faust gently carries Shylock to the sofa.
As he does, the flames smolder and quietly disappear, and Faust releases a sigh of relief.
The air is tense between Oz and Figaro.
And I don’t know how to feel.
Akira: (I couldn’t even save Shylock.....)
(How can I possibly save Arthur like this....?)
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6.8 Tracing His Tracks
Figaro: Don’t look so down, Sir Sage. Shylock will be all right now.
But it must’ve taken a toll on you too. Should we discuss the wizard Nova another day?
I shake my head. I didn’t want him to think of me as a weak, crying, helpless human.
Akira: No... I apologize for making you worry. Do tell us.
Figaro nods and uses magic to assemble a few documents.
The sheets of paper flutter into his hands like birds.
This must be what Mister Vincent handed him on the day that Arthur made his promise.
Figaro: I guess I’ll fill Shylock in later.... I managed to narrow down our clues to two spots.
The first is a club for military officers in Western Country. Looks like it’s a spot that Nicholas visited fairly often. There’ve been eyewitness accounts of a white-haired woman there.
Akira: Are you saying that’s Nova...?
Figaro: I can’t say for sure, but it’s worth looking into. Evidently she claimed she was from Adams Island and was looking to gather information about it.
Akira: Adams Island.... According to Murr, it sank to the bottom of the ocean because someone became infatuated with Shylock.....
Stunned, Figaro looks over his shoulder at Shylock.
Figaro: If you go crazy for him, you might wind up sinking a whole island...? What a guy.
Snow: You didn’t know?
White: Even though you’re so well-informed?
Figaro: I don’t know too much about what goes on in the Western Islands. Aren’t you the same, Oz, Faust?
Faust: Yes.
Oz: ..........
Figaro: Faust is such a good boy. Can you at least answer me?
Oz: I didn’t know.
Figaro: There were remnants of a summoning ritual on Borda Island, which lies near Adams Island. It’s highly likely that Nova was in the area.
And I want you guys to investigate — preferably, I want the Central wizards and the Western wizards to go together.
Faust: I see. It’s better to have Cain in the group to access the military club, and he knew Nicholas well.
Figaro: Of course, it might have the opposite effect — because he and Nicholas apparently didn’t get along.
The other hint is the wizards’ guild that once existed in Eastern Country.
Apparently, Nova was listed as an author to the "Co-prosperity Rulebook," which served as the guild regulations.
Faust: "Co-Prosperity Rulebook"? Are you saying that Nova created the wizards’ guild?
Figaro: I can’t say. But there seems to be a record lying in the City of Rain’s library management system.
Wizards’ Guild, City of Rain, Eastern Country. "Co-Prosperity Rulebook" committee: J. Page, H. Leroux, Q. Nova.
Oz: ....Couldn’t it just be a coincidence that they have the same name?
Figaro: That’s very possible. And if we investigate, we’ll find out for sure. Can I ask the Eastern wizards to take on the job?
Faust: I often go to the City of Rain. We’ll investigate. Can we get our hands on that book?
Figaro: Unfortunately, as it stands, it’s a book of legend. Only its publishing record remains.
According to rumor, it contains the rules we wizards must follow if we’re going to live in harmony together.
Faust: Hmph... Those rules must have been useless, since that guild no longer seems to exist.
Figaro: Presumably so. I say presumably because we don’t even know when it disappeared.
Faust: That’s suspicious.... We’ll look into the guild as well.
Snow: And what should the Northern wizards and Southern wizards do?
Figaro: We Southern wizards will do exactly what we told Vincent the other day.
We’ll interact with the people of Central Country’s capital.
If we can get more humans on our side, I’m sure it’ll help us forge a path of hope during dire times.
I don’t really have anything to ask of the Northern wizards. It’s more work getting you to listen to me anyway.
Snow: That’s not true!
White: We can be useful too!
Figaro: All right, then, please prepare for our battle against Nova.
I hear that even Mithra couldn’t defeat him in a one-on-one battle. That means we’re all cooked, save for Oz.
Snow: ....Hmph. We would never be defeated by some nameless wizard.
White: We’ll show you — and this Nova guy too.
Figaro: You’re so reliable. Sir Sage, that’s it from me. The decision is in your hands.
You can accept my suggestion, or we can meet again and decide what to do from scratch. We can also follow any suggestions you have.
What would you like to do?
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6.9 Here, Too, Someone...
The wizard Nova who tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe >.
If we can catch him, maybe we can figure out why the < Great Catastrophe > attacked with far greater force than it did in years prior.
Maybe we’ll learn how to cure the bizarre injuries left by the < Great Catastrophe >; maybe we’ll learn what Nova’s goals are.
I grip my hands and look up at Figaro.
Akira: I would like to search for Nova. From both ends — from Western Country and Eastern Country.
Figaro: Got it. I’ll make arrangements tomorrow.
I’ll carry Shylock. You should rest up, Sir Sage.
Akira: .........
Figaro: What’s wrong?
Akira: I was just... So useless.... I just want to know how to control the Sage’s powers.
Figaro’s gaze is kind and sympathetic; he looks like he’s cheering up a sullen student.
Before he can say anything, though, Snow and White speak up.
Snow: No need to worry, Sage. The sage’s powers have been a mystery since ancient times.
White: Not a single sage has managed to control their powers. You’re doing everything you can do.
Akira: Really....?
Snow: Indeed, indeed.
White: What a kind child you are.
Snow and White’s gentle voices make me choke up again. I bite my lip.
Their small palms stroke my head and back, giving me a sense of ease.
But that’s when I catch sight of something bizarre.
For just one moment, Figaro sneers, casting a scornful gaze at the twins.
No: he’s not sneering. What I’m seeing is a mixture of contempt, anger, and sorrow.... That’s right. He’s suspicious.
Here, too, is someone who can’t trust his neighbor.
✦✧☾✧✦
Rutile: ..........
Lennox: What are you doing here, Rutile?
Rutile: I couldn’t sleep... Mister Leno, what about you?
Lennox: I got a little hungry.....
Nero: I’m cooking a midnight snack. Just a bite of something delicious, and a bit of sweet wine.
Rutile: That sounds delicious! May I join you?
Nero: Of course.
Rutile: Mister Leno, Mister Nero. Do you remember what Prince Vincent said to us?
Lennox: Hm?
Rutile: That wizards can’t live together.... Do you think he’s right?
Lennox: Well... I can’t say he’s completely wrong.
Southern Country is doing quite well. But according to Dr. Figaro, that’s because it’s still a developing country.
Once our lifestyles stabilize and people start to accumulate wealth — that’s when suspicion flourishes.
And if there’s a burglary, the first suspects will be the wizards in the community.
Rutile: ....Do you think that means we can’t be together either?
Lennox: I can’t say.... What do you think, Nero?
Nero: I.... Can’t say. Because I’m better at being alone.
Being with someone else means changing your shape to align with theirs. It means your soul can’t exist in its true form.
When you try to make a perfect match, when you try to stick to someone like a piece in a puzzle... You wind up twisting your own shape, or trying to change someone else’s by force.
I don’t wanna live like that. That’s why I refuse to live with others.
Rutile: But Mister Nero, isn’t there a chance that you and someone else can co-exist in your true shapes?
Nero: Who knows. I'm always pulling the short straw, you see.
Lennox: Wizards can live alone. And the stronger the wizard, the less they need to get along with others.
Because they can control nature with magic; they can subjugate the world to match their temperament.
Rutile: Forcing the world to match your temperament.... That sounds incredible.
Lennox: ....Yes.... If you can simply exist in the world of your dreams....
Maybe it’s easier to live alone than to live with others.
Nero: Well.... No need to get all serious or stuffy about it.
If we can just enjoy the quiet nights when we can be together — if we can just chat and have a good time — then that’s enough for me.
Rutile: You’re right.... Cheers.
Lennox: Cheers.
Nero: Cheers.
✦✧☾✧✦
Unable to sleep, I go for a walk around the courtyard that night.
The night breeze is cold and gentle. I turn to gaze up at the moon when I catch sight of another figure.
It’s Rustica.
Rustica: Good evening, Sir Sage. ....You look quite exhausted. Are you all right?
Akira: Yes, I’m fine. Thank you, Rustica.....
Rustica: Please don’t hold back. Let me offer you a beautiful song to soothe your heart, Sir Sage.
Music. As Rustica prepares to cast his spell, I think about what he mentioned yesterday.
Akira: ....That’s right..... We were talking about symphonies. You mentioned that musical pieces grow more difficult to play when there are more instruments involved.
We were interrupted by Oz’s sudden arrival, but do you recall what you meant to say?
Rustica: I do. We were talking about how instruments are similar to wizards.
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6.10 So We Don’t Lose Anyone
Akira: ....Were we?
Rustica: Were we not? Each and every instrument possesses its own unique sound.
Of course, an instrument can make music on its own. There’s no need for it to complement the sounds of other instruments.
Doesn’t that remind you of wizards?
When he puts it that way — he’s right. Strong personalities; powerful sounds. A timbre that won’t make space for other sounds....
For the most part, I think that’s fine. Because there are times when I hate working in groups too.
But if we’re going up against a tremendously powerful enemy....
If there’s something we can do to avoid losing any one of us.
Akira: ....What do we need to make a successful symphony?
Rustica smiles gently.
His tranquil, unwavering eyes are like those of a prophet.
Rustica: There are several factors, but the most essential of them all would be a conductor.
Akira: ...A conductor.....
Rustica: Indeed. A skilled conductor knows how to honor every sound, while restraining and unleashing each one at the right time....
To create harmony.
A conductor needs to know the good and bad of every instrument.
In order to create a vibrant orchestra that layers timbre upon timbre....
They need to be accommodating of all sounds, yet capable of cold calculation. Shh, quiet now.... And now, unleash!
Out of nowhere, I hear cymbals clashing, and my heart nearly leaps out of my body.
Rustica: Pardon me. It looks like I’ve surprised you.
Akira: N-not at all....
Rustica: The conductor’s job is to give commands to each person for the sake of the others — in order to create music for all.
I feel my heart beating faster — and it’s not just from surprise.
Isn’t this ability to conduct what I — what the Sage — needs?
Even if I can’t take on that role just yet, if I can learn from a skilled conductor who knows how to create harmony....
Then maybe, even wizards who can’t live together can co-exist for a brief moment in time.
Akira: Rustica, may I ask you one more question?
Rustica: Of course.
Akira: Assuming everyone in the magic headquarters knows the ins and outs of every instrument....
Who would you say is best suited to be a conductor?
Rustica: Central would be Cain; East would be Faust. South would be Dr. Figaro, and North would be Bradley.
These are the names that came up the other day.
As he sees my eyes widen, Rustica tilts his head in surprise.
Rustica: ...Oh? Did I mention this before?
Akira: Rustica, what about the West? Who would you say is most suited to be the conductor of Western Country?
He considers it for a moment, before smiling.
Rustica: That would probably be me.
Akira: ....I see.... I apologize if this comes off as rude, but what about Shylock?
Rustica flashes me a confident smile.
His confidence doesn’t concern his own abilities — rather, it’s directed at his dear friend.
Rustica: Shylock. My noble friend would never take our beautiful, unique personalities....
And synchronize them into one.
He is someone who finds richness and beauty in the scattered and the twisted.
Someone who loves free souls as they exist in their natural form.
Perfection, victory, accomplishments.... Shylock refuses to decorate the shelves of his shop with the things that delight us and make us feel at peace.
Imperfection, loss, and the unexplored....
Every last beautiful being who was not rewarded because they existed as themselves.
Shylock loves such souls from the bottom of his heart, paying them his deepest respects.
I believe he would be better than most at performing the role of a conductor.
But it would hurt his soul. Because he does not wish to choose the "right" sound and sort everyone into place.
Akira: ....But you’re good at that, Rustica?
Rustica bows respectfully.
A somewhat genteel but very reliable gesture of a noble.
Brandishing a smile more charming than a shooting star, Rustica proffers me a wink.
Rustica: I am a musician, after all.
✦✧☾✧✦
That night, I....
Prepare five copies of the Sage’s Manual.
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Chapter 5 << | index | >> Chapter 7