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 9 | Departure
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Chapter 8 << | index | >> Chapter 10
Chapter 9: Departure
9.1 Even After You Turn to Stone
9.2 Should’ve Done This From the Start
9.3 Let’s Unravel the Spell
9.4 A Worthy Wizard
9.5 Don’t Go
9.6 Split Opinions, Sought Words
9.7 Can’t Betray the Heart
9.8 The Sage and the Sacrificium
9.9 A Colorful Hello
9.10 What’s He Saying?
9.1 Even After You Turn to Stone
Silver clouds swallow the sun, casting shadows over Owen’s icy smile.
Behind him, the plants in the flower bed and tree branches overhead rustle noisily, poised like beasts bristling with anger.
Flower petals dance in wild swirls. Owen’s voice drops to a low murmur, syrupy sweet.
Owen: Come on, Sir Knight. Make your choice.
Which is it: will you remain silent for my sake, or will you expose my weakness to save your friends?
There’s no need to hesitate. I know you’ve already decided on your answer.
You can drop the good guy act...... Go on and admit that you can’t save someone you hate.
No one’s going to blame you, Sir Knight. Anyone would make the same choice. Tell me, Sir Knight......
Owen whispers, leaning forward so his breath ghosts over my earlobes.
His eyes, the exact mirror of mine, are distorted with glee.
There’s no need to hesitate. I agree with Owen on that much.
I should protect my friends’ safety. But.......
Cain: ......I’m not choosing.
Owen: ......... Huh?
Cain: I don’t want to tell them without your permission.
Owen: Why?
Cain: I feel like that would make you happy.
Owen scrunches up his nose, his gaze steely with unconcealed displeasure.
Thinking that he might’ve misunderstood, I scramble to elaborate.
Cain: Don’t take it the wrong way. I’m not saying I’d never do anything that would make you happy.
It just seems like you’d be delighted if I chose to abandon you. And I don’t want you to be happy over that.
Owen: I get it. I do get it; that’s why this sucks. You think I’d just give you permission to tell everyone?
You really think a weakling like you can get your way and change my will so I’ll listen?
Cain: Well, I thought I could give it a sincere shot......
Owen: Don’t be ridiculous. I can’t even feed sincerity to my dogs.
Floating weightlessly in the air, Owen looks down at me. The pointy tips of his boots hover around my nose.
Owen: Are you saying that you’ve decided to abandon your precious friends’ lives in order to uphold this loyal vision you have of yourself?
You’re sure? Even knowing Riquet might get devoured under the influence of my injury in the time it takes to persuade me?
His words strike a bitter chord. As my hesitation grows, so does my urge to blame myself.
But if I betray Owen and reveal his injury, I’m sure I’ll feel the same way.
I’m stuck. Whichever choice I make, I’m going to mess up, regret it, and hate myself.
Maybe that’s the nasty catch in Owen’s plan. I can’t keep on like this. I reach out to grab Owen’s ankle without thinking.
Cain: Hey, Owen.
Owen: Huh? What do you think you’re doing?
Cain: What do you mean?
Owen: You’re grabbing my ankle. Do you have a death wish?
Cain: Only because you always disappear without warning. We’re not done talking here yet.
Owen: I can do that even if you’re holding my ankle. I can go anywhere I want. You’re no better than a worm.
Cain: Okay, okay. I’m letting go now, but don’t disappear on me!
I think about what a pain Owen is while I hold up both hands and continue.
Cain: Just now, you said you get it, right? When I said I didn’t want to make you happy by betraying you.
Owen: So what?
Cain: Why would being betrayed make you happy?
Owen smirks. He gloatingly wags his fingers as he looks down at me.
Owen: Because once you see how ugly your true self is, you’ll lose all hope in the world, Sir Knight.
Imagine it: your face contorted with resentment as you cradle your head, filled with fury as you lash out at the world for taking away your glorious chance to play messenger of justice.
I want to see you like that, Sir Knight. I want an artist to paint it and hang it up in a cathedral for all to see. I’m sure it’d draw more spectators than portraits of heroes.
Cain: (He’s got terrible taste......)
Owen: Well? Doesn’t it sound wonderful?
Even after you turn into stone, the name "Cain Knightley" will be passed down and live on as the byname for cowards everywhere.
Owen chuckles. He’s creepy, ill-tempered, gloomy, vicious — and he enjoys being all of those.
He’s got these alarming ideas in his head...... But if he’d been one of my men, I know what I would've told him.
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9.2 Should’ve Done This From the Start
Well, I don’t know what’s going on with you, but hey, there’s nothing a drink or a song and dance can’t cure. It’s no use dwelling on dark thoughts.
But I can’t do that with a Northern wizard. I’ve tried and failed time and time again.
I think for a while, before trying a different tack.
Cain: You’re a Northern wizard. For you guys, the most important thing is that you never lose to anyone, right?
Owen: Of course.
Cain: Then why did you say I could go around telling everyone your weakness?
Is it more important to you to turn me into a coward than to guard yourself against losing?
That’s not very Northern, right?
Owen: ............
Owen goes silent.
His gaze burns with the kind of victimized hatred you would see in a young man who watched an enemy nation raze his village. He glares at me, his chin tucked in contemplatively.
Owen: ......I can’t stand you.
Cain: I don’t know why you’d say that. I don’t think we have the same definition of "hate." But we should try to understand each other. And I mean both of us.
Owen: Depending on my mood, I could......
Cain: Yeah, I know, you can kill me anytime you feel like it. You’ve said it enough. Hey, let’s talk about something different for a change.
Owen: Wh......
Cain: Aren’t you tired of it by now? I know I am.
"Do you want to die?" "No, I don’t want to die." We’ve gone through it so many times. I’m sure we both get it by now, so let’s stop it with the same old back-and-forth.
Or at least limit it to once a day. And then we can use the time we save and try to get somewhere with this conversation. How does that sound?
Here, get down here already.
I gesture with my hands and body, trying my best to talk Owen into coming down, and finish off with a tug at the tip of his boot.
It was an all-or-nothing gamble, but after giving me a drawn-out blank stare, Owen finally drops down without a fuss.
He conjures his magical trunk and perches himself on it. He crosses his legs and rests his chin in one hand, the veins on his temple standing out.
Owen: ......Let me make myself clear: it’s not like I’m listening to you or anything.
Cain: Yeah, absolutely.
Owen: What do you mean about getting somewhere with this conversation?
Owen throws a considering glance in my direction. Beneath his air of complete apathy, I sense the tiniest flicker of interest.
Is this guy actually interested in me, even when he’s not the little him?
I respond as the revelation settles in.
Cain: Owen. To be honest, I’m still not sure how to handle this.
If Riquet or Mitile got into a fight with the little you and Cerberus ended up eating them, it would be a problem.
But if everyone learned of your weakness, and Mithra and Bradley used it to fight dirty against you......
That would be a problem too. Well, I’d feel bad. So I’d like to see if we can come up with other better ideas.
Owen: Why?
Cain: Eh?
Owen: Why would it be a problem? You’re supposed to kill me and take your eye back.
You’d have a better chance of winning if I were weakened from another fight.
Cain: That’s not right. I want to take it back with my own strength. Otherwise it’d be no different from highway robbery.
Owen: Hmm......?
Cain: You don’t get it, huh...... How should I put this?
You’re dangerous and terrifying, but that doesn’t mean I want anything bad to happen to you.
Otherwise, isn’t that just like the rule banning wizards from joining the knighthood?
Owen listens closely, his gaze unwavering.
Looking at him, I’m struck by a realization. Just now, I was incredibly unfair and rude towards Owen.
I was so worried about Riquet that I suggested telling everyone about his injury, without any thought for how he felt.
Owen would have been the only one hurt. Of course he would be unhappy.
If only we had sat and talked like this from the start.......
Maybe Owen would’ve listened to me more readily.
A quiet breeze ruffles Owen’s fringe. After a brief silence, Owen asks a question.
Owen: Hey. Why did the me I don’t remember try to kill you back then?
Cain: Eh?
Owen: Shino said he gave me eye drops before.
There’s no way I would’ve let him do that. So I thought the me I don’t remember must act pretty meek.
But apparently I tried to kill you. Why is that?
Cain: ......Well......
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9.3 Let’s Unravel the Spell
Owen: Tell me.
Cain: I made the little you angry. You told me to die when I said I was going to leave you behind.
Owen: ............
You call the me that I have no memory of "little Owen," huh?
Cain: Because you’re like a little kid in those times.
Owen: So you would leave a child behind? And here I thought you used to be the leader of the Order of Knights.
Cain: That’s......
Owen scowls, unleashing the full weight of his contempt.
I’m strangely anxious as I scramble to explain myself. He’s always ready with scornful laughter and disdainful remarks, but......
I never expected his disappointment to show on his face so clearly.
Cain: Please hear me out. To me, you were the Northern wizard Owen.
Owen: It’s not just you. That’s who I am to everyone.
Cain: You might’ve been acting like a kid, but I know how powerful you are. That’s why I thought you would be fine by yourself.
But not anymore. I’ve changed my mind. I’m not going to leave you behind anymore.
Owen’s eyes widen. He smiles wryly, a tiny huff of breath escaping his lips.
It’s an amazing expression on him. I feel like my breath has been punched out of my chest. In spite of myself, I am transfixed by his face.
It’s the face of a friend.
Owen: I see. So that’s why you said you wouldn’t leave me alone.
Then why don’t you just tell that to Riquet, Mitile and Chloe?
You could warn them not to leave me behind if they find me acting like a child. Mithra and the others won’t catch on.
Are you listening, Sir Knight?
Cain: Eh? Ah, sorry, what did you say?
Owen: I can’t believe you......
Cain: Sorry, my bad, I really was listening.
Owen shrugs, balancing cross-legged on his trunk with practiced ease.
Owen: This wouldn’t be a problem if you just hurried up and got stronger already. Then you could at least protect the small kids from the little me.
Cain: I’m well aware of that. I’ve been training hard every day, but......
Owen plucks at his fringe, dangling his leg listlessly.
Owen: The problem is your spell.
Cain: My spell? You mean my magic spell?
Owen: Yeah. It’s not terrible, but the words are too big for you.
The words are too big?
Owen: Yeah, that’s why you still can’t fully command it. Well, I guess it’s fine since it suits you, Sir Knight.
Cain: Hold on..... Hang on a second, Owen. Can you explain a little more?
I rush to press him for an explanation. I can sense that this is crucial to my own growth.
Owen purses his lips unhappily. He abruptly looks away, like he’s already sorry he brought it up.
Owen: I don’t wanna. Go and ask Oz.
Cain: I’ll do that, of course. But I don’t really get what Oz is trying to say sometimes.
From the faces Oz makes, he doesn’t get why I don’t understand him either.
Maybe he and Arthur understand each other because they’ve known each other for so long...... But sometimes he completely loses me and Riquet.
Owen: We don’t understand you guys either. The prince is a little closer to us. I guess our temperaments are more similar.
Cain: Temperaments?
Owen whirls around to look at me.
Owen: Just as you don’t understand Oz, there are times when I don’t understand you, Sir Knight.
So I get why Oz would make the faces you mention.
Unless you employ your words properly, you won’t be understood, and you won’t exert any influence. It’s the same with the spirits.
Cain: The spirits?
Owen: Who do you think you’re chanting your spells to? The spirits take your words and work the magic behind your spell.
A breeze rustles noisily through the leaves on the trees. I cast a look around us.
The translucent dewdrops traversing the leaves. The moist smell of soil. Dappled sunlight filtering through the branches of a huge tree......
Feeling the spirits’ gaze on us, I unconsciously take in a deep breath.
Owen: Your spell is too strong for you, both in terms of your magic and your age. It does suit you, though.
Cain: What happens when the words of my spell are too strong?
Owen: The same thing that would happen with humans: you get laughed at.
Cain: L-Laughed at? Are the spirits laughing at me?
Owen: Not in a bad way. More like they’re watching over you with a fond smile?
Cain: Wait, hang on..... I try my best to sound really cool.
Owen: I didn’t say you were uncool.
Cain: But they’re laughing at me, right?
Owen: Think of a baby who goes around declaring that the world belongs to him while still sucking on his thumb. Would you take him seriously?
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9.4 A Worthy Wizard
Cain: Ok, I get it......
Owen: You’re basically the same. It’s kind of amusing to watch. The spirits like you, but they’re not taking you seriously.
Cain: No way......
Owen: When Figaro commands the spirits to obey him, they suck in their breath and snap to attention.
Then, they carry out his orders unquestioningly. That’s the kind of word that makes for a good spell.
Cain: ......I had no idea......
I’m kind of shocked. It was the two sister witches from Central Country who taught me about spells.
They told me to choose a phrase I liked, or one that would get me rallied up, so I did.
I was pretty taken with it too. It sounded cool.
Owen frowns, agitated at how dejected I am.
Owen: What? I only told you because you asked me to.
Cain: You’re right...... Thanks, Owen.
Owen: You sound like a horse about to kick the bucket..... What a pain.
Cain: Well, I thought my spell was really cool, so I was pretty proud of showing it off. Hey, do you think I should change it?
Owen: You’d improve faster that way. But it’s not like you have to. You just need to become worthy of your spell.
Cain: What do you mean?
Owen: I mean you should become a wizard to rival the legendary King of Knights, not some baby.
A wizard to rival the legendary King of Knights. His words set my heart ablaze, pulling me back from the edge of despair.
Owen: I bet it’d be impossible for you though, Sir Knight.
Cain: Don’t say that. I’ll prove it to you — I’ll train hard and become a wizard worthy of my spell.
Owen: Oh? Give it your best shot. But you’ll struggle to apply your power with that spell until then.
With a hint of mockery, Owen breaks into a smile.
He might’ve been making fun of me, but I feel encouraged and strangely energized.
Cain: Thanks for the advice. I feel like I can be useful to Sir Sage and the others now if we really do run into Nova.
Owen: ......Nova?
Cain: Yeah. I don’t know if we’ll find him, but the plan is to track down any clues that might lead to him.
Owen: You’re no match for him, Sir Knight. Nova will turn you to stone.
My face falls at his blunt statement.
Since Owen has actually encountered Nova, his words force me to remember what a dangerous opponent Nova must be.
Cain: I’ll make sure I’m vigilant. It’s my duty to protect Sir Sage and Prince Arthur.
Owen: Are you an idiot?
Cain: It’s fine. Oz and Shylock are coming with us.
Owen: .............
Owen starts to say something, before irritatedly clicking his tongue.
With that, he turns his back on me and disappears.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next morning, the day we depart for Western Country.
I wake up, sensing someone’s presence in the room.
Arthur: Ah...... I woke you up.
I open my eyes to find Arthur standing by my bed. He looks into my face as he touches my left wrist.
Arthur smiles mischievously, silver hair falling over his eyes. His expression reminds me why he’s here.
This is an experiment we’ve tried over and over.
Let’s say someone touches me while I’m sleeping. Would I see them the moment I wake up and open my eyes?
If I can see someone even if they touch me without my knowledge, then my injury operates under pretty specific circumstances.
But if I can’t, then......
It means my own consciousness plays a role in whether I can see someone or not.
Which means if we can test a scenario where someone touches me while I remain unaware......
Then maybe I can come up with a strategy to deal with my injury.
So I’ve asked Arthur a couple of times to see if he can try it while I’m asleep, but I always wake up the second his hand touches me.
It’s my ingrained habit as a soldier. If it had been anyone but Arthur, I would’ve immediately woken up at the sound of the door opening.
Arthur: Sorry. Looks like I failed again.
Cain: Don’t worry about it. Good morning, Arthur.
The bed creaks as I sit up and stretch. I smile as I look up at Arthur, who returns an answering smile.
Arthur: You look happy, even though we failed again.
Cain: It feels great to see a familiar face first thing in the morning. Even more so when it’s you, Arthur.
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9.5 Don’t Go
Arthur: It must be hard on you, Cain. I wish I could come and wake you up every morning.
Cain: I’m usually up earlier than you, so I’d be waking you up. Did I oversleep today......
Arthur: Maybe it’s because the sun hasn’t really been out. It was drizzling until a while ago. Do you want me to take your luggage ahead?
Cain: It’s all right. I’ll head over once I change.
Arthur: Okay.
Arthur opens my window with magic, stepping through it lightly. He hops onto his broom and takes off into the sky.
I bet that’s how he tried to sneak into my room without waking me.
Cain: Haha......
I laugh to myself. How very like Arthur to enter and leave that same way.
✦✧☾✧✦
When I arrive at the elevator, I can only see Arthur. But soon, I hear Riquet and Oz’s voices.
Riquet: When we arrive in Western Country, I want to look for the sweets Chloe recommended.
Apparently they’re supposed to embody a noblewoman’s kisses...... Are you listening, Oz?
Oz: I am listening.
Riquet: Okay, so we really, really have to stop by a marketplace so we can find—......
Oh, Cain.
Cain: Hey, Riquet.
I hear light footsteps approaching, and feel someone tightly clasp my right hand.
And then I see Riquet looking up at me.
Still holding my hand, Riquet drags me in the direction of Oz’s voice.
Riquet: Have you tried it before, Cain? The sweets that embody a noblewoman’s kisses. Where do you think we can find them?
Cain: We’re heading to the capital of Western Country. I’m sure we’ll find them somewhere.
As I talk to Riquet, I feel the slightest brush against my fingertips.
It’s Oz’s finger. I look up, finding Oz before me.
Cain: Good morning, Oz.
Oz: ............
Oz nods wordlessly. He’s the man who raised Arthur, and the strongest wizard in the world.
It’s reassuring, having him on our team.
But there are also times when I’m uneasy staying by his side.
Oz seems taciturn and easygoing with Arthur and Riquet, but he’s merciless against anyone who dares to defy him.
If the day comes when he crosses a line and goes too far, no one would be able to stop him.
Cain: (I don’t know if I can command him around...... That’s like asking me to tame a giant dragon.)
(Am I even the right guy for the job.......? No, I can’t complain when this is for Akira and Arthur.)
Oz. We might run into Nova on this mission.
I heard even Mithra wasn’t a match for Nova. You’re our best shot. I’m counting on you.
I intended to emphasize the threat Nova poses, but Oz remains expressionless.
Oz: That’s Mithra.
His message is loud and clear: I’m different. No one is a match for me.
Cain: (Damn, he’s so cool.......)
I’m blown away. There’s a world of difference between us: the spirits would never humor him like a baby.
Arthur looks up at Oz with a smile of absolute trust — that says it all: "we’ll be fine as long as we have Oz."
To be honest, I’m really jealous.
Owen: Sir Knight!
Suddenly, I hear Owen’s voice. He runs to me from the entrance.
Arthur and Riquet look surprised, while Oz frowns in displeasure.
Ah. I clap a hand over my mouth in shock.
Owen wears an imploring gaze, on the verge of bursting into tears — just like a little kid.
He clings to me.
Owen: Wait, Sir Knight. Where are you going? Don’t go anywhere......
Cain: Owen.......
Owen: Mithra said you’re going to a country far, far away.
Owen informs me anxiously. Still holding onto me, he shows no signs of letting go.
Riquet: Owen......?
Arthur: Owen. What happened? You’re acting differently......
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9.6 Split Opinions, Sought Words
I start panicking at their confused expressions.
Owen doesn’t want people to find out about his injury. I have to find a way to explain......
Cain: Uh...... Looks like he drank too much at Shylock’s bar yesterday.
Riquet: So he’s drunk right now?
Cain: Yeah, that’s it!
Owen: Nope.
Cain: ............
Owen: I’m not drunk, Sir Knight. I’ve been a good boy.
Arthur: This is a surprise...... He’s really Owen, but he’s acting like a young child.
Oz: It does not appear to be some form of impersonation either.
Arthur: Now that I think of it, we still don’t know what Owen’s injury is..... Could this be......
Arthur’s keen observation sets off alarm bells in my mind.
Cain: No! That is, I mean, let’s not make any wild guesses.
Arthur stares, bewildered.
Arthur: Is there something you don’t want to tell us?
Cain: No, it’s just that.......
Riquet: You were acting strangely misleading yesterday, too. Are you actually hiding something?
I break into a cold sweat. I know I have to come up with a good lie, but nothing comes to mind.
Owen tugs on my arm, his voice plaintive.
Owen: Hey, Sir Knight. Where are you going? Take me with you.
Cain: You want me to take you along......
Owen: Please. I want to go with you, Sir Knight. Don’t leave me behind.
Cain: (......There it is.)
The sight of Owen’s round, beseeching eyes sends me into uncharted panic.
Things are looking bad. I have to speak and act carefully.
In the past, Cerberus attacked me because I refused Owen’s plea to not to leave him behind.
I wrack my brain for a convincing argument, but Oz beats me to speaking.
Oz: You are not coming with us. Let go of Cain.
Oz fixes his gaze on Owen as he calls up his staff.
Oz: Otherwise, I will turn you into a pillar of lightning.
From Oz’s point of view, the Northern wizard Owen is an opponent who’s made countless attempts on his life.
So his reaction makes perfect sense.
But faced with Oz’s fury, the childlike Owen simply gulps and turns pale.
He hides behind me, trembling violently.
Owen: ......Don’t be mad......
That makes sense too. Oz is scary when he’s angry. I imagine he must be extra terrifying to a kid.
Honestly, I feel sorry for Owen. And it looks like Riquet feels the same.
Riquet: Oz. You don’t have to be so mean for no reason.
Oz: Owen is skilled at impersonation. He pretends to be wounded, and the moment you let your guard down, that’s when he stri—......
Riquet: Maybe Owen just wants to eat sweets. He loves them, after all.
Hey, Owen. You want to eat the noblewoman’s kisses, don’t you?
Owen gazes at Riquet unblinkingly, nodding eagerly. He looks like he’s responding to Riquet’s smile rather than what he’s actually asking.
Riquet: See, I told you so. You should let him come with us if he just wants to eat sweets.
Riquet pesters, tugging at Oz’s sleeve. Oz replies, his distaste clearly written across his face.
Oz: No.
Riquet: Don’t be so selfish. You’re two thousand years too old to act that way.
Oz: You should not let your guard down around Owen.
Oz glowers pettily at Riquet. Anyone other than Riquet would’ve been in tears by now.
Riquet: Sir Sage said he wanted all of us to get along.
Can’t you even follow instructions, Oz?
Oz: Owen is a Northern wizard.
Riquet: You said that already.
Oz: You should not let your guard down.
Riquet: You’ve said that already!
Arthur: Okay, calm down, both of you. Cain. What do you think?
Arthur turns the conversation over to me. One glance at his shrewd blue eyes tells me that he’s not just collecting opinions from the group.
He’s picked up on both my shifty manner and Owen’s eccentric behavior, and yet......
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9.7 Can’t Betray the Heart
He trusts me enough to ask for my opinion. That realization makes me happy and proud.
Owen casts a forlorn gaze up at me. I give him a tiny nod and place a hand on his back.
I’ve made up my mind not to leave him behind. I’ve decided not to betray my own heart.
Steeling myself, I start talking.
Cain: Hear me out, you guys. I know the reason why Owen is acting this way.
But I can’t say anything about it. It would mean betraying Owen’s trust.
Oz: ............
Cain: He’s the guy who stole my eye. Someday I’ll settle our score once and for all. Those feelings haven’t changed.
But if I turn on Owen now, I would be betraying my own heart. So......
I want to take him with us to Western Country until he goes back to normal.
Maybe it’s just my imagination, but I think I feel a warm spark spreading through Owen’s back. His mismatched eyes shine, almost glittering as they turn upwards to me.
Like the eyes of a child who’s been given candy for the first time ever.
Riquet: Cain......
Arthur: Got it. I agree with Cain’s suggestion.
Oz: Arthur......
Arthur: Cain said he couldn’t betray his own heart. Wizards use magic with their hearts. And I want to protect Cain’s heart.
Besides......
Arthur smiles gently at Owen. Owen timidly returns his gaze.
Arthur: I don’t sense any ill will from him. This might be a lie or an act, but if Owen is capable of playing such innocence......
Then it means he has that very innocence in his heart still. If so, I want to become his friend.
Oz: ............
Still glowering, Oz lapses into silence. But with Riquet persistently tugging on his hand, he finally lets out a defeated sigh.
Oz: ......Only until nightfall. If he shows any unsettling behavior, I’ll send him to the ends of the earth.
Owen: ......The ends of the earth?
Oz: ............
Owen: Is it scary there......?
Owen asks innocently. For a long time, Oz simply scrutinizes him.
I can sense Oz’s wariness and distaste slowly give way to something almost calm and nostalgic.
Maybe Owen’s childlike question reminded him of a younger Arthur.
Cain: It’ll be okay, as long as you’re a good boy.
I smile, trying to reassure him. Owen holds onto my arm, bobbing his head happily.
Owen: Okay! I can do that!
He looks like a child hungry for praise. When I look at that face, it makes me want to make sure he’s happy.
Arthur and Riquet warm up to Owen right away, the three of them chattering excitedly about sweets.
I secretly approach Oz, crooking a finger for him to get closer.
Oz bends down obligingly so I can whisper into his ear.
Cain: I’m only telling you. But please don’t leave Owen behind.
If you do, he’ll summon Cerberus and attack you.
Oz leans away. After a brief silence, he mutters.
Oz: That’s what he usually does.
Cain: Yes, but...... I guess you’re used to it. It must be tough putting up with people fighting you daily.
I can’t help patting his back comfortingly. Strong guys sure have their burdens to carry.
Cain: I can’t give you all the details, but he’s a good boy right now. He wants to stay a good boy.
But if you try to leave him behind, he’ll get mad and attack you with Cerberus.
I want to protect Arthur and Riquet. So do you think you can try not to send this Owen off to the ends of the earth?
Oz studies me wordlessly. His gaze is questioning, asking, "Why do you want to do that?"
I don’t know either. Maybe I’m a hypocrite. But this is what my heart is telling me.
Owen is a dangerous person. But he’s our comrade, and right now, he’s a child who needs to be protected.
It’s a messy problem. I’m just as confused.
The villain who a knight must defeat, and the helpless child who he must protect. Who would expect them both in the same vessel?
Oz: .......I just have to not leave him behind, right?
Cain: Probably.
Oz: I understand.
Cain: Whew...... Thanks.
I sigh in relief and thump Oz’s shoulder. As I do, I hear the Western wizards’ voices.
Akira’s voice, too. I can almost sense Akira’s sharp inhale as he turns in our direction.
He probably noticed Owen acting differently from how he normally does.
Akira: Good morning, Cain.
I hold out my hand as Akira’s footsteps draw closer, followed by the sound of his palm clapping mine.
"Is everything all right?" Akira’s gaze holds a wordless question.
"Everything’s fine." I nod in response. Relieved, Akira walks over to Owen.
He knows that Owen doesn’t want people finding out about his injury, so he’s being considerate by keeping Owen busy with talking.
He’s a really reliable guy, even though he came here all alone from an unknown world.
Sometimes, I think about the world Akira calls home, and the day he'll have to return.
I think, too, about how I’ve completely forgotten the previous sage’s face.
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9.8 The Sage and the Sacrificium
The elevator creaks and rolls as it carries us to our destination.
We figured it would get crowded if the Western wizards, the Central wizards, and Owen and I all got on together....
So the Western wizards and I got on first.
Sacri-something settled in above my shoulder.
Most of the time, it just floats, bumping against my shoulder and leaning on me every now and then.
Chloe seems fascinated by Sacri-something: he leans in and smiles at it.
Chloe: It’s sooo cute, Sir Sage! Where’d you get it?
Akira: Ah.... The twins gave it to me. They said it would ward off misfortunes and act as my substitute.....
Shylock: It’s a sacrificium.
Murr: The twins might hear us if we start gossiping about them in front of it.
Chloe: Is this sacrificium alive? What’s its name?
Akira: I... I wasn’t going to name it. It’s not a pet or anything.
Chloe: Oh, really? But don’t you think sacrificium is a mouthful?
Can I call it Sakitty?
Chloe’s suggestion sends a sweet pang through my chest.
It feels like ripping off a hangnail: painful freedom, a mixture of regret and relief.
Akira: ....Yes.
Chloe: Yay! Sakitty! Let’s get along, Sakitty!
Chloe reaches out with both hands to squish Sakitty’s cheeks; he proceeds to pet and stroke it all over.
Sakitty sits still the whole time. Its narrowed eyes make it look like it’s smiling.
It’s so, so cute. I want to do the same, but for some reason, I can’t.
I can’t, so instead I stand there looking down, grinning to myself.
Akira: (It’s so, so cute. So cute. I wonder if it likes being petted? I’m happy for you, Sakitty....)
I look up and see the elevator walls.
Every time I step on this elevator, I remember how I arrived in this world.
Akira: (I stepped onto the mysterious elevator, and the first person I met was....)
Murr: What is it, Sir Sage?
Akira: Ah.... It’s nothing.
Chloe: I wonder if Owen is okay? He ate some strange candy and started acting like a child, right?
Murr: I can’t believe it! Did the candy make him crazy?
Rustica: He’ll be fine. Sir Oz was with them.
Shylock: I agree. You can’t rest assured just because someone is an adult...
And you shouldn’t have to worry just because someone is a child.
Chloe: H-huh? Umm....
Shylock: Riquet and Owen were looking forward to eating your favorite candy, Chloe.
Chloe: Ehehe, I hope everyone enjoys my favorite things! Do you like it too, Shylock?
Shylock: I do.
Murr: It’s the Noblewoman’s Kiss, after all!
Rustica: I like it too. What do you say, Sir Sage?
Akira: I’m sure I’ll enjoy it. I tend to like sweets.
The Western wizards don’t have many questions regarding Owen’s bizarre state; they seem to just accept it.
It must be because they’re so used to the bizarre. As the conversation rolls on, I recall what Bradley mentioned the other day.
Akira: (Right, he wanted us to search for Murr’s laboratories. What are we going to do about that?)
(I wonder if Shylock knows their whereabouts....)
As I turn to Shylock, Murr’s exuberant voice bounces off the elevator walls.
Murr: We’re almost there!
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9.9 A Colorful Hello
Murr: And we’ve arrived in Western Country~!
✦✧☾✧✦
We arrive in Western Country.
Rustica: What a refreshing breeze. I’m glad the weather’s lovely here too.
Chloe: But there are dark clouds over that way. It might be raining....
Huh? Wait....
Chloe points to the dark skies, squinting his eyes.
There’s something lost, struggling, and flying this way.
Akira: Debris from a rooftop somewhere....?
A small speck ascends and sinks by turns through the skies. One moment it’s red; the next, it’s yellow.
Judging from how it floats, it seems to have a mind of its own.
Akira: (It’s coming this way....?)
Rustica: It’s a bird...?
Murr: No, it’s a human!
Chloe: A human!?
Shylock: Perhaps we should call it a human that has been magically transformed into a bird.
So that’s why it doesn’t know how to fly.
I glance at Sakitty floating right above my shoulder. Sakitty seems to be enjoying the breeze.
If Sakitty isn’t reacting, it’s probably not dangerous.
Actually, the bird is the one who looks like its life is on the line.
Just watching the colorful bird makes me anxious — and that’s when a strong breeze smashes into it, sending it high into the skies.
It plummets to the ground, wings folded.
Akira: Ah.....
Chloe: We need to save it!
Chloe conjures his broom and hops on.
Next to him, Murr lifts his right hand.
His ring — his magical tool — glitters bright.
Murr: Leave it to me!
<< Eanul Rambul >>!
He encircles the colorful bird in a gentle light.
It floats through the air to where we stand.
Chloe: Nice! Thanks, Murr!
Murr: You’re welcome!
I reach towards the illuminated, colorful bird with both arms.
It falls right into them.
???: ..........
The colorful bird is heavier, softer, and warmer than it looks.
But its wings are drenched, and its back is going cold.
Chloe: I wonder if it’s okay....
Rustica: Your wings are such rare, gorgeous colors. Could you be my bride.....
Shylock: Probably not. Take a look.
The colorful bird slowly opens its eyes.
The next moment, it jolts up, flying around and chirping.
Akira: Is it trying to say something.... Can we change it back to its human form?
Murr: Sure!
<< Eanul Rambul >>!
Murr casts his spell. But even after the orb of light encircles the colorful bird, it remains a bird.
Murr: Huh....?
Shylock: Let me give it a shot.
<< Invibelle >>
Pipe in hand, Shylock casts his spell.
Smoke from the pipe envelops the bird. But the bird is still a bird.
Shylock: Oh my.....
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9.10 What’s He Saying?
Rustica: It’s quite the spell. The caster must have been exceptionally skilled at transfiguration.
Chloe: Can’t you undo it, Rustica?
Rustica: If Shylock can’t do it, I can’t either. It might even give Sir Oz some trouble.
Akira: Even Oz?
Shylock: Transformation and transfiguration are of a different nature than the magic that Oz and the Northern wizards are skilled at.
Essentially, you could say that Chloe is a better make-up artist than Oz or Mithra.
Akira: I see... But then, is this person going to be a bird forever?
Maybe the bird understands what we’re saying, because it freezes up in shock.
???: .......!
And immediately collapses into my palm.
Rustica: Oh, it’s from Western Country.
Shylock: It is unmistakably a resident of Western Country.
Murr: Look at that — only one of its legs is trembling. It’s so expressive.
Chloe: I’m already kind of attached to it.....
Hey, can’t we help it out somehow?
Murr: .....Hmm.
Alright! Let me give it one more shot!
Akira: Please do!
Murr: Here we go~!
<< Eanul Rambul >>!
An even brighter light than before envelops the colorful bird.
The bird also sits up, chirping as if begging for a miracle.
That’s when something strange happens.
The bird’s heart-wrenching cries....
Start becoming a human voice.
???: ....Da.....
Chloe: Oh....!
???: ....Damn....
Those damn wizards who transformed me like this....!
Western wizards: .........
???: I’ll never forgive them! What the hell did they do to my dearest Liliana!?
That’s why I said we shouldn’t go to the royal palace! Ah, I need to go save Liliana right now.....!
These wizards seem to be relatively decent... Guess I can use them to return to my human body.
Hey! What are you standing there staring for! Come on! Try harder! Can you do humans some good for onc....
.....Huh!? My voice!?
But I was chirping just seconds ago!? Hang on, did you just hear everything I said!?
Shylock: Yes.
???: .......
Ch... chirp.....
Chloe: It’s way too late for that. Sorry you’re stuck with these damn wizards.
???: No no no no no.... I never said any such thing.
Rustica: You said you’d use us to return to your human body.
???: I would never use you! I would simply be delighted if you could lend me a hand.
Rustica: But alas. We can’t turn you back.
???: Oh no, please, don’t be so cruel....
Murr: We’re telling the truth! You know what else is true? We have a good friend who loves fried chicken!
???: Stop. Stop. This is just grotesque. Oh! This gentleman over here looks very kind!
May I ask you your name?
As the colorful bird stretches its beak towards me, Sakitty intercepts it with its front paws.
???: Hey, kitty! Let’s not get violent. All I did was ask him his name. Let’s all be gentlemen here.
The colorful bird keeps an eye on Sakitty as it flutters around me in circles.
???: Listen. No claws here. I’m not trying to usurp you as his pet or anything.
I apologize for the interruption. May I ask you your name again?
Akira: Er, I’m Akira.
???: What a lovely name. It makes you seem very kind, and....
Chloe: He doesn’t just seem kind. Sir Sage is kind.
???: Sir Sage?
Shylock: He’s the Sage summoned from another world. And we are the Sage’s wizards.
???: No way!? That’s great news for me!
The colorful bird flies into the air and makes a gesture that looks like a bow.
???: Oh, magnanimous Sage Akira. Could you take pity on my helpless soul?
My name is Gregory Perch. I am a servant of the Cortese house, the great noble family of the West.
Danger approaches my lord, Princess Liliana.
Akira: Princess Liliana....
Gregory: Sir Akira. Please lend me your strength.
Could you assist my avian body to save Princess Liliana!?
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Chapter 8 << | index | >> Chapter 10
Chapter 8 << | index | >> Chapter 10
Chapter 9: Departure
9.1 Even After You Turn to Stone
9.2 Should’ve Done This From the Start
9.3 Let’s Unravel the Spell
9.4 A Worthy Wizard
9.5 Don’t Go
9.6 Split Opinions, Sought Words
9.7 Can’t Betray the Heart
9.8 The Sage and the Sacrificium
9.9 A Colorful Hello
9.10 What’s He Saying?
9.1 Even After You Turn to Stone
Silver clouds swallow the sun, casting shadows over Owen’s icy smile.
Behind him, the plants in the flower bed and tree branches overhead rustle noisily, poised like beasts bristling with anger.
Flower petals dance in wild swirls. Owen’s voice drops to a low murmur, syrupy sweet.
Owen: Come on, Sir Knight. Make your choice.
Which is it: will you remain silent for my sake, or will you expose my weakness to save your friends?
There’s no need to hesitate. I know you’ve already decided on your answer.
You can drop the good guy act...... Go on and admit that you can’t save someone you hate.
No one’s going to blame you, Sir Knight. Anyone would make the same choice. Tell me, Sir Knight......
Owen whispers, leaning forward so his breath ghosts over my earlobes.
His eyes, the exact mirror of mine, are distorted with glee.
There’s no need to hesitate. I agree with Owen on that much.
I should protect my friends’ safety. But.......
Cain: ......I’m not choosing.
Owen: ......... Huh?
Cain: I don’t want to tell them without your permission.
Owen: Why?
Cain: I feel like that would make you happy.
Owen scrunches up his nose, his gaze steely with unconcealed displeasure.
Thinking that he might’ve misunderstood, I scramble to elaborate.
Cain: Don’t take it the wrong way. I’m not saying I’d never do anything that would make you happy.
It just seems like you’d be delighted if I chose to abandon you. And I don’t want you to be happy over that.
Owen: I get it. I do get it; that’s why this sucks. You think I’d just give you permission to tell everyone?
You really think a weakling like you can get your way and change my will so I’ll listen?
Cain: Well, I thought I could give it a sincere shot......
Owen: Don’t be ridiculous. I can’t even feed sincerity to my dogs.
Floating weightlessly in the air, Owen looks down at me. The pointy tips of his boots hover around my nose.
Owen: Are you saying that you’ve decided to abandon your precious friends’ lives in order to uphold this loyal vision you have of yourself?
You’re sure? Even knowing Riquet might get devoured under the influence of my injury in the time it takes to persuade me?
His words strike a bitter chord. As my hesitation grows, so does my urge to blame myself.
But if I betray Owen and reveal his injury, I’m sure I’ll feel the same way.
I’m stuck. Whichever choice I make, I’m going to mess up, regret it, and hate myself.
Maybe that’s the nasty catch in Owen’s plan. I can’t keep on like this. I reach out to grab Owen’s ankle without thinking.
Cain: Hey, Owen.
Owen: Huh? What do you think you’re doing?
Cain: What do you mean?
Owen: You’re grabbing my ankle. Do you have a death wish?
Cain: Only because you always disappear without warning. We’re not done talking here yet.
Owen: I can do that even if you’re holding my ankle. I can go anywhere I want. You’re no better than a worm.
Cain: Okay, okay. I’m letting go now, but don’t disappear on me!
I think about what a pain Owen is while I hold up both hands and continue.
Cain: Just now, you said you get it, right? When I said I didn’t want to make you happy by betraying you.
Owen: So what?
Cain: Why would being betrayed make you happy?
Owen smirks. He gloatingly wags his fingers as he looks down at me.
Owen: Because once you see how ugly your true self is, you’ll lose all hope in the world, Sir Knight.
Imagine it: your face contorted with resentment as you cradle your head, filled with fury as you lash out at the world for taking away your glorious chance to play messenger of justice.
I want to see you like that, Sir Knight. I want an artist to paint it and hang it up in a cathedral for all to see. I’m sure it’d draw more spectators than portraits of heroes.
Cain: (He’s got terrible taste......)
Owen: Well? Doesn’t it sound wonderful?
Even after you turn into stone, the name "Cain Knightley" will be passed down and live on as the byname for cowards everywhere.
Owen chuckles. He’s creepy, ill-tempered, gloomy, vicious — and he enjoys being all of those.
He’s got these alarming ideas in his head...... But if he’d been one of my men, I know what I would've told him.
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9.2 Should’ve Done This From the Start
Well, I don’t know what’s going on with you, but hey, there’s nothing a drink or a song and dance can’t cure. It’s no use dwelling on dark thoughts.
But I can’t do that with a Northern wizard. I’ve tried and failed time and time again.
I think for a while, before trying a different tack.
Cain: You’re a Northern wizard. For you guys, the most important thing is that you never lose to anyone, right?
Owen: Of course.
Cain: Then why did you say I could go around telling everyone your weakness?
Is it more important to you to turn me into a coward than to guard yourself against losing?
That’s not very Northern, right?
Owen: ............
Owen goes silent.
His gaze burns with the kind of victimized hatred you would see in a young man who watched an enemy nation raze his village. He glares at me, his chin tucked in contemplatively.
Owen: ......I can’t stand you.
Cain: I don’t know why you’d say that. I don’t think we have the same definition of "hate." But we should try to understand each other. And I mean both of us.
Owen: Depending on my mood, I could......
Cain: Yeah, I know, you can kill me anytime you feel like it. You’ve said it enough. Hey, let’s talk about something different for a change.
Owen: Wh......
Cain: Aren’t you tired of it by now? I know I am.
"Do you want to die?" "No, I don’t want to die." We’ve gone through it so many times. I’m sure we both get it by now, so let’s stop it with the same old back-and-forth.
Or at least limit it to once a day. And then we can use the time we save and try to get somewhere with this conversation. How does that sound?
Here, get down here already.
I gesture with my hands and body, trying my best to talk Owen into coming down, and finish off with a tug at the tip of his boot.
It was an all-or-nothing gamble, but after giving me a drawn-out blank stare, Owen finally drops down without a fuss.
He conjures his magical trunk and perches himself on it. He crosses his legs and rests his chin in one hand, the veins on his temple standing out.
Owen: ......Let me make myself clear: it’s not like I’m listening to you or anything.
Cain: Yeah, absolutely.
Owen: What do you mean about getting somewhere with this conversation?
Owen throws a considering glance in my direction. Beneath his air of complete apathy, I sense the tiniest flicker of interest.
Is this guy actually interested in me, even when he’s not the little him?
I respond as the revelation settles in.
Cain: Owen. To be honest, I’m still not sure how to handle this.
If Riquet or Mitile got into a fight with the little you and Cerberus ended up eating them, it would be a problem.
But if everyone learned of your weakness, and Mithra and Bradley used it to fight dirty against you......
That would be a problem too. Well, I’d feel bad. So I’d like to see if we can come up with other better ideas.
Owen: Why?
Cain: Eh?
Owen: Why would it be a problem? You’re supposed to kill me and take your eye back.
You’d have a better chance of winning if I were weakened from another fight.
Cain: That’s not right. I want to take it back with my own strength. Otherwise it’d be no different from highway robbery.
Owen: Hmm......?
Cain: You don’t get it, huh...... How should I put this?
You’re dangerous and terrifying, but that doesn’t mean I want anything bad to happen to you.
Otherwise, isn’t that just like the rule banning wizards from joining the knighthood?
Owen listens closely, his gaze unwavering.
Looking at him, I’m struck by a realization. Just now, I was incredibly unfair and rude towards Owen.
I was so worried about Riquet that I suggested telling everyone about his injury, without any thought for how he felt.
Owen would have been the only one hurt. Of course he would be unhappy.
If only we had sat and talked like this from the start.......
Maybe Owen would’ve listened to me more readily.
A quiet breeze ruffles Owen’s fringe. After a brief silence, Owen asks a question.
Owen: Hey. Why did the me I don’t remember try to kill you back then?
Cain: Eh?
Owen: Shino said he gave me eye drops before.
There’s no way I would’ve let him do that. So I thought the me I don’t remember must act pretty meek.
But apparently I tried to kill you. Why is that?
Cain: ......Well......
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9.3 Let’s Unravel the Spell
Owen: Tell me.
Cain: I made the little you angry. You told me to die when I said I was going to leave you behind.
Owen: ............
You call the me that I have no memory of "little Owen," huh?
Cain: Because you’re like a little kid in those times.
Owen: So you would leave a child behind? And here I thought you used to be the leader of the Order of Knights.
Cain: That’s......
Owen scowls, unleashing the full weight of his contempt.
I’m strangely anxious as I scramble to explain myself. He’s always ready with scornful laughter and disdainful remarks, but......
I never expected his disappointment to show on his face so clearly.
Cain: Please hear me out. To me, you were the Northern wizard Owen.
Owen: It’s not just you. That’s who I am to everyone.
Cain: You might’ve been acting like a kid, but I know how powerful you are. That’s why I thought you would be fine by yourself.
But not anymore. I’ve changed my mind. I’m not going to leave you behind anymore.
Owen’s eyes widen. He smiles wryly, a tiny huff of breath escaping his lips.
It’s an amazing expression on him. I feel like my breath has been punched out of my chest. In spite of myself, I am transfixed by his face.
It’s the face of a friend.
Owen: I see. So that’s why you said you wouldn’t leave me alone.
Then why don’t you just tell that to Riquet, Mitile and Chloe?
You could warn them not to leave me behind if they find me acting like a child. Mithra and the others won’t catch on.
Are you listening, Sir Knight?
Cain: Eh? Ah, sorry, what did you say?
Owen: I can’t believe you......
Cain: Sorry, my bad, I really was listening.
Owen shrugs, balancing cross-legged on his trunk with practiced ease.
Owen: This wouldn’t be a problem if you just hurried up and got stronger already. Then you could at least protect the small kids from the little me.
Cain: I’m well aware of that. I’ve been training hard every day, but......
Owen plucks at his fringe, dangling his leg listlessly.
Owen: The problem is your spell.
Cain: My spell? You mean my magic spell?
Owen: Yeah. It’s not terrible, but the words are too big for you.
The words are too big?
Owen: Yeah, that’s why you still can’t fully command it. Well, I guess it’s fine since it suits you, Sir Knight.
Cain: Hold on..... Hang on a second, Owen. Can you explain a little more?
I rush to press him for an explanation. I can sense that this is crucial to my own growth.
Owen purses his lips unhappily. He abruptly looks away, like he’s already sorry he brought it up.
Owen: I don’t wanna. Go and ask Oz.
Cain: I’ll do that, of course. But I don’t really get what Oz is trying to say sometimes.
From the faces Oz makes, he doesn’t get why I don’t understand him either.
Maybe he and Arthur understand each other because they’ve known each other for so long...... But sometimes he completely loses me and Riquet.
Owen: We don’t understand you guys either. The prince is a little closer to us. I guess our temperaments are more similar.
Cain: Temperaments?
Owen whirls around to look at me.
Owen: Just as you don’t understand Oz, there are times when I don’t understand you, Sir Knight.
So I get why Oz would make the faces you mention.
Unless you employ your words properly, you won’t be understood, and you won’t exert any influence. It’s the same with the spirits.
Cain: The spirits?
Owen: Who do you think you’re chanting your spells to? The spirits take your words and work the magic behind your spell.
A breeze rustles noisily through the leaves on the trees. I cast a look around us.
The translucent dewdrops traversing the leaves. The moist smell of soil. Dappled sunlight filtering through the branches of a huge tree......
Feeling the spirits’ gaze on us, I unconsciously take in a deep breath.
Owen: Your spell is too strong for you, both in terms of your magic and your age. It does suit you, though.
Cain: What happens when the words of my spell are too strong?
Owen: The same thing that would happen with humans: you get laughed at.
Cain: L-Laughed at? Are the spirits laughing at me?
Owen: Not in a bad way. More like they’re watching over you with a fond smile?
Cain: Wait, hang on..... I try my best to sound really cool.
Owen: I didn’t say you were uncool.
Cain: But they’re laughing at me, right?
Owen: Think of a baby who goes around declaring that the world belongs to him while still sucking on his thumb. Would you take him seriously?
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9.4 A Worthy Wizard
Cain: Ok, I get it......
Owen: You’re basically the same. It’s kind of amusing to watch. The spirits like you, but they’re not taking you seriously.
Cain: No way......
Owen: When Figaro commands the spirits to obey him, they suck in their breath and snap to attention.
Then, they carry out his orders unquestioningly. That’s the kind of word that makes for a good spell.
Cain: ......I had no idea......
I’m kind of shocked. It was the two sister witches from Central Country who taught me about spells.
They told me to choose a phrase I liked, or one that would get me rallied up, so I did.
I was pretty taken with it too. It sounded cool.
Owen frowns, agitated at how dejected I am.
Owen: What? I only told you because you asked me to.
Cain: You’re right...... Thanks, Owen.
Owen: You sound like a horse about to kick the bucket..... What a pain.
Cain: Well, I thought my spell was really cool, so I was pretty proud of showing it off. Hey, do you think I should change it?
Owen: You’d improve faster that way. But it’s not like you have to. You just need to become worthy of your spell.
Cain: What do you mean?
Owen: I mean you should become a wizard to rival the legendary King of Knights, not some baby.
A wizard to rival the legendary King of Knights. His words set my heart ablaze, pulling me back from the edge of despair.
Owen: I bet it’d be impossible for you though, Sir Knight.
Cain: Don’t say that. I’ll prove it to you — I’ll train hard and become a wizard worthy of my spell.
Owen: Oh? Give it your best shot. But you’ll struggle to apply your power with that spell until then.
With a hint of mockery, Owen breaks into a smile.
He might’ve been making fun of me, but I feel encouraged and strangely energized.
Cain: Thanks for the advice. I feel like I can be useful to Sir Sage and the others now if we really do run into Nova.
Owen: ......Nova?
Cain: Yeah. I don’t know if we’ll find him, but the plan is to track down any clues that might lead to him.
Owen: You’re no match for him, Sir Knight. Nova will turn you to stone.
My face falls at his blunt statement.
Since Owen has actually encountered Nova, his words force me to remember what a dangerous opponent Nova must be.
Cain: I’ll make sure I’m vigilant. It’s my duty to protect Sir Sage and Prince Arthur.
Owen: Are you an idiot?
Cain: It’s fine. Oz and Shylock are coming with us.
Owen: .............
Owen starts to say something, before irritatedly clicking his tongue.
With that, he turns his back on me and disappears.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next morning, the day we depart for Western Country.
I wake up, sensing someone’s presence in the room.
Arthur: Ah...... I woke you up.
I open my eyes to find Arthur standing by my bed. He looks into my face as he touches my left wrist.
Arthur smiles mischievously, silver hair falling over his eyes. His expression reminds me why he’s here.
This is an experiment we’ve tried over and over.
Let’s say someone touches me while I’m sleeping. Would I see them the moment I wake up and open my eyes?
If I can see someone even if they touch me without my knowledge, then my injury operates under pretty specific circumstances.
But if I can’t, then......
It means my own consciousness plays a role in whether I can see someone or not.
Which means if we can test a scenario where someone touches me while I remain unaware......
Then maybe I can come up with a strategy to deal with my injury.
So I’ve asked Arthur a couple of times to see if he can try it while I’m asleep, but I always wake up the second his hand touches me.
It’s my ingrained habit as a soldier. If it had been anyone but Arthur, I would’ve immediately woken up at the sound of the door opening.
Arthur: Sorry. Looks like I failed again.
Cain: Don’t worry about it. Good morning, Arthur.
The bed creaks as I sit up and stretch. I smile as I look up at Arthur, who returns an answering smile.
Arthur: You look happy, even though we failed again.
Cain: It feels great to see a familiar face first thing in the morning. Even more so when it’s you, Arthur.
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9.5 Don’t Go
Arthur: It must be hard on you, Cain. I wish I could come and wake you up every morning.
Cain: I’m usually up earlier than you, so I’d be waking you up. Did I oversleep today......
Arthur: Maybe it’s because the sun hasn’t really been out. It was drizzling until a while ago. Do you want me to take your luggage ahead?
Cain: It’s all right. I’ll head over once I change.
Arthur: Okay.
Arthur opens my window with magic, stepping through it lightly. He hops onto his broom and takes off into the sky.
I bet that’s how he tried to sneak into my room without waking me.
Cain: Haha......
I laugh to myself. How very like Arthur to enter and leave that same way.
✦✧☾✧✦
When I arrive at the elevator, I can only see Arthur. But soon, I hear Riquet and Oz’s voices.
Riquet: When we arrive in Western Country, I want to look for the sweets Chloe recommended.
Apparently they’re supposed to embody a noblewoman’s kisses...... Are you listening, Oz?
Oz: I am listening.
Riquet: Okay, so we really, really have to stop by a marketplace so we can find—......
Oh, Cain.
Cain: Hey, Riquet.
I hear light footsteps approaching, and feel someone tightly clasp my right hand.
And then I see Riquet looking up at me.
Still holding my hand, Riquet drags me in the direction of Oz’s voice.
Riquet: Have you tried it before, Cain? The sweets that embody a noblewoman’s kisses. Where do you think we can find them?
Cain: We’re heading to the capital of Western Country. I’m sure we’ll find them somewhere.
As I talk to Riquet, I feel the slightest brush against my fingertips.
It’s Oz’s finger. I look up, finding Oz before me.
Cain: Good morning, Oz.
Oz: ............
Oz nods wordlessly. He’s the man who raised Arthur, and the strongest wizard in the world.
It’s reassuring, having him on our team.
But there are also times when I’m uneasy staying by his side.
Oz seems taciturn and easygoing with Arthur and Riquet, but he’s merciless against anyone who dares to defy him.
If the day comes when he crosses a line and goes too far, no one would be able to stop him.
Cain: (I don’t know if I can command him around...... That’s like asking me to tame a giant dragon.)
(Am I even the right guy for the job.......? No, I can’t complain when this is for Akira and Arthur.)
Oz. We might run into Nova on this mission.
I heard even Mithra wasn’t a match for Nova. You’re our best shot. I’m counting on you.
I intended to emphasize the threat Nova poses, but Oz remains expressionless.
Oz: That’s Mithra.
His message is loud and clear: I’m different. No one is a match for me.
Cain: (Damn, he’s so cool.......)
I’m blown away. There’s a world of difference between us: the spirits would never humor him like a baby.
Arthur looks up at Oz with a smile of absolute trust — that says it all: "we’ll be fine as long as we have Oz."
To be honest, I’m really jealous.
Owen: Sir Knight!
Suddenly, I hear Owen’s voice. He runs to me from the entrance.
Arthur and Riquet look surprised, while Oz frowns in displeasure.
Ah. I clap a hand over my mouth in shock.
Owen wears an imploring gaze, on the verge of bursting into tears — just like a little kid.
He clings to me.
Owen: Wait, Sir Knight. Where are you going? Don’t go anywhere......
Cain: Owen.......
Owen: Mithra said you’re going to a country far, far away.
Owen informs me anxiously. Still holding onto me, he shows no signs of letting go.
Riquet: Owen......?
Arthur: Owen. What happened? You’re acting differently......
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9.6 Split Opinions, Sought Words
I start panicking at their confused expressions.
Owen doesn’t want people to find out about his injury. I have to find a way to explain......
Cain: Uh...... Looks like he drank too much at Shylock’s bar yesterday.
Riquet: So he’s drunk right now?
Cain: Yeah, that’s it!
Owen: Nope.
Cain: ............
Owen: I’m not drunk, Sir Knight. I’ve been a good boy.
Arthur: This is a surprise...... He’s really Owen, but he’s acting like a young child.
Oz: It does not appear to be some form of impersonation either.
Arthur: Now that I think of it, we still don’t know what Owen’s injury is..... Could this be......
Arthur’s keen observation sets off alarm bells in my mind.
Cain: No! That is, I mean, let’s not make any wild guesses.
Arthur stares, bewildered.
Arthur: Is there something you don’t want to tell us?
Cain: No, it’s just that.......
Riquet: You were acting strangely misleading yesterday, too. Are you actually hiding something?
I break into a cold sweat. I know I have to come up with a good lie, but nothing comes to mind.
Owen tugs on my arm, his voice plaintive.
Owen: Hey, Sir Knight. Where are you going? Take me with you.
Cain: You want me to take you along......
Owen: Please. I want to go with you, Sir Knight. Don’t leave me behind.
Cain: (......There it is.)
The sight of Owen’s round, beseeching eyes sends me into uncharted panic.
Things are looking bad. I have to speak and act carefully.
In the past, Cerberus attacked me because I refused Owen’s plea to not to leave him behind.
I wrack my brain for a convincing argument, but Oz beats me to speaking.
Oz: You are not coming with us. Let go of Cain.
Oz fixes his gaze on Owen as he calls up his staff.
Oz: Otherwise, I will turn you into a pillar of lightning.
From Oz’s point of view, the Northern wizard Owen is an opponent who’s made countless attempts on his life.
So his reaction makes perfect sense.
But faced with Oz’s fury, the childlike Owen simply gulps and turns pale.
He hides behind me, trembling violently.
Owen: ......Don’t be mad......
That makes sense too. Oz is scary when he’s angry. I imagine he must be extra terrifying to a kid.
Honestly, I feel sorry for Owen. And it looks like Riquet feels the same.
Riquet: Oz. You don’t have to be so mean for no reason.
Oz: Owen is skilled at impersonation. He pretends to be wounded, and the moment you let your guard down, that’s when he stri—......
Riquet: Maybe Owen just wants to eat sweets. He loves them, after all.
Hey, Owen. You want to eat the noblewoman’s kisses, don’t you?
Owen gazes at Riquet unblinkingly, nodding eagerly. He looks like he’s responding to Riquet’s smile rather than what he’s actually asking.
Riquet: See, I told you so. You should let him come with us if he just wants to eat sweets.
Riquet pesters, tugging at Oz’s sleeve. Oz replies, his distaste clearly written across his face.
Oz: No.
Riquet: Don’t be so selfish. You’re two thousand years too old to act that way.
Oz: You should not let your guard down around Owen.
Oz glowers pettily at Riquet. Anyone other than Riquet would’ve been in tears by now.
Riquet: Sir Sage said he wanted all of us to get along.
Can’t you even follow instructions, Oz?
Oz: Owen is a Northern wizard.
Riquet: You said that already.
Oz: You should not let your guard down.
Riquet: You’ve said that already!
Arthur: Okay, calm down, both of you. Cain. What do you think?
Arthur turns the conversation over to me. One glance at his shrewd blue eyes tells me that he’s not just collecting opinions from the group.
He’s picked up on both my shifty manner and Owen’s eccentric behavior, and yet......
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9.7 Can’t Betray the Heart
He trusts me enough to ask for my opinion. That realization makes me happy and proud.
Owen casts a forlorn gaze up at me. I give him a tiny nod and place a hand on his back.
I’ve made up my mind not to leave him behind. I’ve decided not to betray my own heart.
Steeling myself, I start talking.
Cain: Hear me out, you guys. I know the reason why Owen is acting this way.
But I can’t say anything about it. It would mean betraying Owen’s trust.
Oz: ............
Cain: He’s the guy who stole my eye. Someday I’ll settle our score once and for all. Those feelings haven’t changed.
But if I turn on Owen now, I would be betraying my own heart. So......
I want to take him with us to Western Country until he goes back to normal.
Maybe it’s just my imagination, but I think I feel a warm spark spreading through Owen’s back. His mismatched eyes shine, almost glittering as they turn upwards to me.
Like the eyes of a child who’s been given candy for the first time ever.
Riquet: Cain......
Arthur: Got it. I agree with Cain’s suggestion.
Oz: Arthur......
Arthur: Cain said he couldn’t betray his own heart. Wizards use magic with their hearts. And I want to protect Cain’s heart.
Besides......
Arthur smiles gently at Owen. Owen timidly returns his gaze.
Arthur: I don’t sense any ill will from him. This might be a lie or an act, but if Owen is capable of playing such innocence......
Then it means he has that very innocence in his heart still. If so, I want to become his friend.
Oz: ............
Still glowering, Oz lapses into silence. But with Riquet persistently tugging on his hand, he finally lets out a defeated sigh.
Oz: ......Only until nightfall. If he shows any unsettling behavior, I’ll send him to the ends of the earth.
Owen: ......The ends of the earth?
Oz: ............
Owen: Is it scary there......?
Owen asks innocently. For a long time, Oz simply scrutinizes him.
I can sense Oz’s wariness and distaste slowly give way to something almost calm and nostalgic.
Maybe Owen’s childlike question reminded him of a younger Arthur.
Cain: It’ll be okay, as long as you’re a good boy.
I smile, trying to reassure him. Owen holds onto my arm, bobbing his head happily.
Owen: Okay! I can do that!
He looks like a child hungry for praise. When I look at that face, it makes me want to make sure he’s happy.
Arthur and Riquet warm up to Owen right away, the three of them chattering excitedly about sweets.
I secretly approach Oz, crooking a finger for him to get closer.
Oz bends down obligingly so I can whisper into his ear.
Cain: I’m only telling you. But please don’t leave Owen behind.
If you do, he’ll summon Cerberus and attack you.
Oz leans away. After a brief silence, he mutters.
Oz: That’s what he usually does.
Cain: Yes, but...... I guess you’re used to it. It must be tough putting up with people fighting you daily.
I can’t help patting his back comfortingly. Strong guys sure have their burdens to carry.
Cain: I can’t give you all the details, but he’s a good boy right now. He wants to stay a good boy.
But if you try to leave him behind, he’ll get mad and attack you with Cerberus.
I want to protect Arthur and Riquet. So do you think you can try not to send this Owen off to the ends of the earth?
Oz studies me wordlessly. His gaze is questioning, asking, "Why do you want to do that?"
I don’t know either. Maybe I’m a hypocrite. But this is what my heart is telling me.
Owen is a dangerous person. But he’s our comrade, and right now, he’s a child who needs to be protected.
It’s a messy problem. I’m just as confused.
The villain who a knight must defeat, and the helpless child who he must protect. Who would expect them both in the same vessel?
Oz: .......I just have to not leave him behind, right?
Cain: Probably.
Oz: I understand.
Cain: Whew...... Thanks.
I sigh in relief and thump Oz’s shoulder. As I do, I hear the Western wizards’ voices.
Akira’s voice, too. I can almost sense Akira’s sharp inhale as he turns in our direction.
He probably noticed Owen acting differently from how he normally does.
Akira: Good morning, Cain.
I hold out my hand as Akira’s footsteps draw closer, followed by the sound of his palm clapping mine.
"Is everything all right?" Akira’s gaze holds a wordless question.
"Everything’s fine." I nod in response. Relieved, Akira walks over to Owen.
He knows that Owen doesn’t want people finding out about his injury, so he’s being considerate by keeping Owen busy with talking.
He’s a really reliable guy, even though he came here all alone from an unknown world.
Sometimes, I think about the world Akira calls home, and the day he'll have to return.
I think, too, about how I’ve completely forgotten the previous sage’s face.
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9.8 The Sage and the Sacrificium
The elevator creaks and rolls as it carries us to our destination.
We figured it would get crowded if the Western wizards, the Central wizards, and Owen and I all got on together....
So the Western wizards and I got on first.
Sacri-something settled in above my shoulder.
Most of the time, it just floats, bumping against my shoulder and leaning on me every now and then.
Chloe seems fascinated by Sacri-something: he leans in and smiles at it.
Chloe: It’s sooo cute, Sir Sage! Where’d you get it?
Akira: Ah.... The twins gave it to me. They said it would ward off misfortunes and act as my substitute.....
Shylock: It’s a sacrificium.
Murr: The twins might hear us if we start gossiping about them in front of it.
Chloe: Is this sacrificium alive? What’s its name?
Akira: I... I wasn’t going to name it. It’s not a pet or anything.
Chloe: Oh, really? But don’t you think sacrificium is a mouthful?
Can I call it Sakitty?
Chloe’s suggestion sends a sweet pang through my chest.
It feels like ripping off a hangnail: painful freedom, a mixture of regret and relief.
Akira: ....Yes.
Chloe: Yay! Sakitty! Let’s get along, Sakitty!
Chloe reaches out with both hands to squish Sakitty’s cheeks; he proceeds to pet and stroke it all over.
Sakitty sits still the whole time. Its narrowed eyes make it look like it’s smiling.
It’s so, so cute. I want to do the same, but for some reason, I can’t.
I can’t, so instead I stand there looking down, grinning to myself.
Akira: (It’s so, so cute. So cute. I wonder if it likes being petted? I’m happy for you, Sakitty....)
I look up and see the elevator walls.
Every time I step on this elevator, I remember how I arrived in this world.
Akira: (I stepped onto the mysterious elevator, and the first person I met was....)
Murr: What is it, Sir Sage?
Akira: Ah.... It’s nothing.
Chloe: I wonder if Owen is okay? He ate some strange candy and started acting like a child, right?
Murr: I can’t believe it! Did the candy make him crazy?
Rustica: He’ll be fine. Sir Oz was with them.
Shylock: I agree. You can’t rest assured just because someone is an adult...
And you shouldn’t have to worry just because someone is a child.
Chloe: H-huh? Umm....
Shylock: Riquet and Owen were looking forward to eating your favorite candy, Chloe.
Chloe: Ehehe, I hope everyone enjoys my favorite things! Do you like it too, Shylock?
Shylock: I do.
Murr: It’s the Noblewoman’s Kiss, after all!
Rustica: I like it too. What do you say, Sir Sage?
Akira: I’m sure I’ll enjoy it. I tend to like sweets.
The Western wizards don’t have many questions regarding Owen’s bizarre state; they seem to just accept it.
It must be because they’re so used to the bizarre. As the conversation rolls on, I recall what Bradley mentioned the other day.
Akira: (Right, he wanted us to search for Murr’s laboratories. What are we going to do about that?)
(I wonder if Shylock knows their whereabouts....)
As I turn to Shylock, Murr’s exuberant voice bounces off the elevator walls.
Murr: We’re almost there!
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9.9 A Colorful Hello
Murr: And we’ve arrived in Western Country~!
✦✧☾✧✦
We arrive in Western Country.
Rustica: What a refreshing breeze. I’m glad the weather’s lovely here too.
Chloe: But there are dark clouds over that way. It might be raining....
Huh? Wait....
Chloe points to the dark skies, squinting his eyes.
There’s something lost, struggling, and flying this way.
Akira: Debris from a rooftop somewhere....?
A small speck ascends and sinks by turns through the skies. One moment it’s red; the next, it’s yellow.
Judging from how it floats, it seems to have a mind of its own.
Akira: (It’s coming this way....?)
Rustica: It’s a bird...?
Murr: No, it’s a human!
Chloe: A human!?
Shylock: Perhaps we should call it a human that has been magically transformed into a bird.
So that’s why it doesn’t know how to fly.
I glance at Sakitty floating right above my shoulder. Sakitty seems to be enjoying the breeze.
If Sakitty isn’t reacting, it’s probably not dangerous.
Actually, the bird is the one who looks like its life is on the line.
Just watching the colorful bird makes me anxious — and that’s when a strong breeze smashes into it, sending it high into the skies.
It plummets to the ground, wings folded.
Akira: Ah.....
Chloe: We need to save it!
Chloe conjures his broom and hops on.
Next to him, Murr lifts his right hand.
His ring — his magical tool — glitters bright.
Murr: Leave it to me!
<< Eanul Rambul >>!
He encircles the colorful bird in a gentle light.
It floats through the air to where we stand.
Chloe: Nice! Thanks, Murr!
Murr: You’re welcome!
I reach towards the illuminated, colorful bird with both arms.
It falls right into them.
???: ..........
The colorful bird is heavier, softer, and warmer than it looks.
But its wings are drenched, and its back is going cold.
Chloe: I wonder if it’s okay....
Rustica: Your wings are such rare, gorgeous colors. Could you be my bride.....
Shylock: Probably not. Take a look.
The colorful bird slowly opens its eyes.
The next moment, it jolts up, flying around and chirping.
Akira: Is it trying to say something.... Can we change it back to its human form?
Murr: Sure!
<< Eanul Rambul >>!
Murr casts his spell. But even after the orb of light encircles the colorful bird, it remains a bird.
Murr: Huh....?
Shylock: Let me give it a shot.
<< Invibelle >>
Pipe in hand, Shylock casts his spell.
Smoke from the pipe envelops the bird. But the bird is still a bird.
Shylock: Oh my.....
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9.10 What’s He Saying?
Rustica: It’s quite the spell. The caster must have been exceptionally skilled at transfiguration.
Chloe: Can’t you undo it, Rustica?
Rustica: If Shylock can’t do it, I can’t either. It might even give Sir Oz some trouble.
Akira: Even Oz?
Shylock: Transformation and transfiguration are of a different nature than the magic that Oz and the Northern wizards are skilled at.
Essentially, you could say that Chloe is a better make-up artist than Oz or Mithra.
Akira: I see... But then, is this person going to be a bird forever?
Maybe the bird understands what we’re saying, because it freezes up in shock.
???: .......!
And immediately collapses into my palm.
Rustica: Oh, it’s from Western Country.
Shylock: It is unmistakably a resident of Western Country.
Murr: Look at that — only one of its legs is trembling. It’s so expressive.
Chloe: I’m already kind of attached to it.....
Hey, can’t we help it out somehow?
Murr: .....Hmm.
Alright! Let me give it one more shot!
Akira: Please do!
Murr: Here we go~!
<< Eanul Rambul >>!
An even brighter light than before envelops the colorful bird.
The bird also sits up, chirping as if begging for a miracle.
That’s when something strange happens.
The bird’s heart-wrenching cries....
Start becoming a human voice.
???: ....Da.....
Chloe: Oh....!
???: ....Damn....
Those damn wizards who transformed me like this....!
Western wizards: .........
???: I’ll never forgive them! What the hell did they do to my dearest Liliana!?
That’s why I said we shouldn’t go to the royal palace! Ah, I need to go save Liliana right now.....!
These wizards seem to be relatively decent... Guess I can use them to return to my human body.
Hey! What are you standing there staring for! Come on! Try harder! Can you do humans some good for onc....
.....Huh!? My voice!?
But I was chirping just seconds ago!? Hang on, did you just hear everything I said!?
Shylock: Yes.
???: .......
Ch... chirp.....
Chloe: It’s way too late for that. Sorry you’re stuck with these damn wizards.
???: No no no no no.... I never said any such thing.
Rustica: You said you’d use us to return to your human body.
???: I would never use you! I would simply be delighted if you could lend me a hand.
Rustica: But alas. We can’t turn you back.
???: Oh no, please, don’t be so cruel....
Murr: We’re telling the truth! You know what else is true? We have a good friend who loves fried chicken!
???: Stop. Stop. This is just grotesque. Oh! This gentleman over here looks very kind!
May I ask you your name?
As the colorful bird stretches its beak towards me, Sakitty intercepts it with its front paws.
???: Hey, kitty! Let’s not get violent. All I did was ask him his name. Let’s all be gentlemen here.
The colorful bird keeps an eye on Sakitty as it flutters around me in circles.
???: Listen. No claws here. I’m not trying to usurp you as his pet or anything.
I apologize for the interruption. May I ask you your name again?
Akira: Er, I’m Akira.
???: What a lovely name. It makes you seem very kind, and....
Chloe: He doesn’t just seem kind. Sir Sage is kind.
???: Sir Sage?
Shylock: He’s the Sage summoned from another world. And we are the Sage’s wizards.
???: No way!? That’s great news for me!
The colorful bird flies into the air and makes a gesture that looks like a bow.
???: Oh, magnanimous Sage Akira. Could you take pity on my helpless soul?
My name is Gregory Perch. I am a servant of the Cortese house, the great noble family of the West.
Danger approaches my lord, Princess Liliana.
Akira: Princess Liliana....
Gregory: Sir Akira. Please lend me your strength.
Could you assist my avian body to save Princess Liliana!?
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Chapter 8 << | index | >> Chapter 10