healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-05-12 08:30 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-05-12 08:30 pm
Entry tags:
- .mahoyaku,
- .sherwood,
- .spot story,
- .translation,
- arthur,
- chloe,
- faust,
- heathcliff,
- lennox,
- nero,
- rustica,
- rutile,
- shino
Sherwood Forest | All Sub-Episodes
Read the main Sherwood Forest Spot Story
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Sherwood Forest
Spot Memories (1)-(3)
Impressions of Shino (1)-(5)
Shino's Reputation
On Eastern Country
On the < Great Catastrophe >
People at the Spot
Wizard at the Spot
Guardian of the Woods
Spot-Related Story (1)(2)
Break Time (1)(2)
Spot Impressions (1)-(3)
A Dangerous Place
Spot Discovery
A Fun Place
Spot Specialty
SPOT MEMORIES (1)
Akira: Shino, did you and Heathcliff practice magic in this forest?
Shino: Yeah. I’ve mentioned it before, but we had a wizard who was our master.
Akira: Heath told me about him, too. And that he and your master were chosen as Sage’s wizards together.
Shino: That’s right. I thought he was a suspicious and unreasonable guy since the first time I met him.
But Master was the one who introduced us to him, and Heath took him seriously, so I followed his instructions at first, but....
In the end, he was nothing but a violent and irresponsible liar.
Akira: I see....
Shino: Look at the top of that tree. There’s a gash on the trunk.
Akira: Ah, you’re right. It’s a bit high up for a wild animal to have made it....
Shino: I did that.
I tried to practice a powerful spell and messed up. Thanks to our master’s irresponsible teachings, I didn’t know how to control my power.
My magic blade got so close to our master’s face....
That it shaved off his one eyebrow and the trunk of that tree. His eyebrowless face was funny, so I wish I could’ve shown you.
SPOT MEMORIES (2)
Akira: Low down on the wall of that shack over there. It looks like there are markings of some sort. Are those yellow and blue lines?
Shino: That’s how we recorded our heights. Heath and I drew lines on the wall together.
Akira: You two used to be so small.
Shino: Of course. We were all brats once.
Akira: (These yellow lines — there’s a lot of space between each one. I guess this was his growth spurt.)
(The blue lines are drawn in small increments. Don’t tell me...)
Shino: Hey, Sage. What’s wrong. You’re spacing out.
...Ah. Hey, don’t look at the blue lines so closely!
My growth spurt is probably coming soon.
SPOT MEMORIES (3)
Heathcliff: This area of the woods is Blanchette castle’s hunting grounds.
Hunting is a popular sport among the nobles, but I’m not very good at it.
Akira: Hunting, huh... I don’t think I could manage either.
Heathcliff: You too, Sir Sage?
For me, even if I manage to find game, I feel terrible and I can’t shoot it, because it’s a living creature....
The first time I went hunting, I couldn’t catch a single animal, and I thought it didn’t really matter. But Shino, who tagged along, got mad....
Akira: Shino did?
Heathcliff: He said they’d laugh at me if I came back with nothing; that I’d look pathetic if I did.
And then he left and brought back a rabbit.
Akira: Ah... For you, Heath...?
Heathcliff: Yes. He told me to say I hunted it. So of course we ended up fighting. He wouldn’t listen when I told him I didn’t need it.
Hunting is cruel, and it makes you feel terrible for the poor animal, but... Unless you’re the one who shot it, you don’t really think about that when you eat meat during dinnertime.
I think Shino understands that.
Akira: .......
Heathcliff: That night, I got so confused and sad, and... Curled up in my sheets and cried.
We managed to make up the next day, but... I still don’t like hunting.
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IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (1)
Akira: Faust, what kind of child is Shino, in your opinion?
Faust: ...He has a foul mouth—but despite his upbringing he’s honest, and a good boy at heart.
He has the strength to confront any kind of tribulation. I don’t worry about him.
But he does act spoiled around Heathcliff, and is occasionally oppressive. They fight all the time.
Akira: ...You’re right. I do get that sense.
Faust: It’s a pain, so I hope they learn to stop fighting one day, but....
Heathcliff is also surprisingly stubborn at times. It might be difficult.
Akira: Hmm.... You’re right....
Faust: Also, every once in a while when I praise him, he pesters me to bake him pie.
I keep refusing, saying, I’m not your Mama, but then he just goes to Nero.
Akira: Nero might complain, but he’ll always listen to food requests in the end, after all.
Faust: I guess that kind of toughness and willpower are strengths of his.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (2)
Akira: Heathcliff, how do you feel about Shino?
Heathcliff: Eh, Shino? That came out of nowhere....
Akira: Ah, I’m sorry. I just got the feeling that you two seemed more energetic than usual when you were in the forest.
I see that you’re master and servant, but you look like brothers, or best friends, too.
Heathcliff: Eh... Does it seem like that? I’m a little embarrassed....
> Option: Shino is particularly energetic.
Heathcliff: Ahaha... Sorry, he gets to guide everyone around and show them things when we’re here, so he’s having fun, or should I say....
He wants to act like a big brother. I think he probably wants people to rely on him. ...Even though he wants to be spoiled all the time too.
Akira: Shino is reliable. He always helps me out.
Heathcliff: Honestly, I rely on him a bit too. So when you say it, Sir Sage, I feel kind of happy.
> Option: What kind of person is Shino to you?
Heathcliff: Let’s see... He’s my friend, and sometimes he’s my little brother.
He’s reckless and I can’t take my eyes off of him, but I think Shino probably thinks he’s taking care of me, too.
Akira: It’s a mutual feeling — I can kind of sense that. I think you have a good relationship.
Heathcliff: Is that so? I thought we were childish, but if you put it like that, maybe you’re right....
> Option: How do you feel about the promise?
Heathcliff: This is a secret, but I wish we could be together forever, even if the promise never existed, but....
I’m a little worried that the promise is weighing him down.
Akira: I think that Shino also wishes to be by your side forever, even without the promise. That’s my impression.
Heathcliff: I wonder.... But hearing that from you makes me feel a little relieved.
Thank you, Sir Sage.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (3)
Akira: As his senior wizard, what do you think of Shino, Nero?
Nero: That’s a pretty broad question you’re asking. But, well....
I think he’ll become pretty strong in the future.
The fact that he got to freely use magic in nature since he was a child probably helps. That’s rare nowadays.
Akira: I see. Getting used to it is important?
Nero: Yup, yup. He’s still a mischievous kid on the inside, though.
If you praise him a little, he starts asking you to bake him his favorite pies and cookies, right?
For someone who’s done everything on his own up till now, he’s got a cute streak in him.
Akira: So from your point of view, he’s kind of cute.
Nero: Man, he’s basically a baby. I bet all the older wizards feel that way too.
It’s also cute how he’s vowed loyalty to Heath in his own way.
And it’s cute how he tries to learn everything he can from Faust, too.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (4)
Akira: Lennox, what do you think of Shino?
Lennox: ....What do you mean?
Akira: Ah, I’m sorry. It’s nothing too deep. Just how you think he’s doing, and all....
Lennox: How he’s doing....
He came to me the other day. Said he wanted me to teach him how to fight with his bare hands.
But... I’m not very good at teaching, so I had to explain through actual practice.
Akira: So you mean... You basically used your moves on each other?
Lennox: Yes. And then after I beat him a number of times, he said, I’ll get back at you, and disappeared.
Akira: (He must have been really frustrated....)
Lennox: I was afraid I’d made him mad, but when night came around, he said, “Thanks for this afternoon,” and brought grass for the sheep.
Then he said he’d be back when he could beat me.
Akira: He’s gutsy.....
Lennox: I wanted to hold back a little if possible, but....
Akira: Ah, I understand. Shino seems like the kind of boy who would get mad if you went easy on him.
Lennox: Haha.... Exactly.
He’s very competitive, but I think he has both a strong heart and body.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (5)
Rustica: Shino is full of energy. He’s brisk, so he yells at me now and then.
Akira: You two are kind of a surprising combination. Do you play with Shino, Rustica?
Rustica: I don’t know if I’d say we play, but when I’m performing the harpsichord, Shino often stops by to listen.
Akira: Shino does? That’s a little surprising....
Rustica: Really? Wizards all love to follow their senses.
If he lived in this quiet forest, he might not have had many opportunities to come into contact with music.
Akira: I see... It makes me kind of happy to see Shino discovering new things that he likes at the magic headquarters.
Rustica: I feel the same. If you’d like, please join us next time.
Shino always listens intently, and then briefly tells me how he felt at the end of the session, so I look forward to that.
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SHINO’S REPUTATION
Akira: Arthur. There you are. Were you talking to someone?
Arthur: Yes. I met a woodcutter from this forest.
He told me that Shino saved him once, when he was crushed by a tree that fell over.
Akira: Shino saved someone?
Arthur: Yes. Apparently he used magic, but the woodcutter was terribly afraid, because he thought wizards were evil...
And he feels awful about it now. Though Shino didn’t seem to care.
Akira: I didn’t know that happened.... Though I can imagine Shino not caring.
Arthur: I agree. He was surprised when I told him that I was a wizard as well, but....
He said he trusted me if I was Shino’s comrade.
I hear the people of the East are suspicious of wizards, but there are people who think of Shino this way — he’s reliable, and I’m proud of him.
Akira: Yes... I feel the same way.
Arthur: Once we get back to the magic headquarters, I’d like to ask Shino about it.
I too must work hard, just like Shino.
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ON EASTERN COUNTRY
Akira: Heath, are you most comfortable living in Eastern Country?
Heathcliff: I don’t know.... Ever since going to Central Country, I’ve begun to think that it feels a little cramped living here.
The Blanchette territories aren’t that bad, but the capital is full of laws, and very strict.
If you want to live and interact with others, I think Central or South might be a better place to live than here.
Akira: I see...
Heathcliff: Ah, but of course there are lots of good things about this country too.
I love places full of nature, and when I’m in this forest, I feel most like myself, more than anywhere else.
Akira: You’re right. I might be more relaxed than usual....
Heathcliff: Ahaha....
We’ve been to many places together ever since you arrived at the magic headquarters, but....
When it comes to nature, I always think Eastern Country is the most beautiful.
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ON THE < GREAT CATASTROPHE >
Shino: When I was a kid, Master would let me into the castle on the day the approached, because he thought I’d be scared on my own.
I was so happy I’d get to spend time with Master and Mistress and Heath that I would look forward to the day of the Catastrophe, and the other servants would be like, you damn wizard!
Akira: That’s cruel, but it’s true that it really is a day of bad omens....
Shino: Heath is a worrywart, so he was always terrified, and I would cheer him up every time.
Even if I said, it goes back to the sky every year, so of course it’s going to be fine this year too, he still was scared every year.
.....
Akira: What happened?
Shino: ...I remembered something. About that time.
“If I ever become a Sage’s wizard, I’ll chase back the < Great Catastrophe >. So don’t worry.” That’s what I said to him.
Akira: Shino... You’ve been kind ever since you were little.
Shino: Not really.
But this year, I need to make my words come true.
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PEOPLE AT THE SPOT
Nero: Mr. Sage. There’s somewhere I wanna drop by. Can I go?
I’ll be back before the sun sets.
Akira: Yes, that’s fine, but... Where are you going?
Nero: Apparently there are hunting grounds nearby Blanchette Castle. I wanted to go take a look.
Akira: Hunting grounds? You’re going to hunt, Nero?
Nero: Yup, yup. I met a hunter from these woods over there.
They said they have boars and deer and rabbits and pheasants, all sorts of things, so I thought I’d have them share some with me.
Akira: I see. You’ve gotten close with the locals.
Nero: Yup. At first they were all wary, but the moment I dropped young master Heathcliff’s name, they told me all sorts of things.
Oh, right. That’s why I’ll be taking Heathcliff with me too. Where is he?
Akira: I think he’s over that way. Please be careful.
Nero: Thanks. Look forward to dinner, okay?
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WIZARD AT THE SPOT
Faust: Apparently there used to be a witch who would kidnap children living near this forest.
Akira: Children...? Why...?
Faust: Why, you ask?
If you’re a wizard in this country, where persecution and prejudice exist to this day, there are more than enough reasons.
Akira: Ah....
Faust: Perhaps she loathed wizards. Perhaps she couldn’t stand the loneliness of being alone. Perhaps she was looking for ritual sacrifices....
Whatever the case, if you want to spend a long, long time alone, you either need to attack others or yourself, or simply withstand it and get used to it.
Akira: ....Faust, have you also gotten used to being alone all the time?
Faust: .....
I wonder.
Akira: (I thought he would say, of course I did....)
Faust: You can no longer sense the witch’s presence in these woods.
She must have been chased away or turned to stone.
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GUARDIAN OF THE WOODS
Shino: Sage. Wait. There’s someone here.
Akira: Eh?
Shino: ...Hey, you guys over there. Come on out. Unless you want to get hurt.
Shino says towards the shadows of the trees, and a number of large, well-built men appear.
Well-Built Man: The guardian Shino....!? I thought he was supposed to be gone for a while, why is he here....
Shino: You... Did you come to vandalize this forest again?
Didn’t I tell you to never step foot into these woods again the last time I captured you? Looks like those ears of yours are worthless.
<< Matztzah Sudipas >>
Well-Built Man: Aaah....! I’ll leave! We’ll leave right now so please spare us!
Well-Built Man: R-run...!
(Footsteps)
Shino: Tch... Sage, stay right here. I’ll chase them down and teach them a lesson.
Akira: Y-yes. But if they haven’t done any damage yet, please go easy on them...!
Shino: You’re soft. But don’t worry, I just learned how to hold back.
I’m off now.
(Footsteps)
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SPOT-RELATED STORY (1)
Shino: If you head further into the depths eastwards from here, you’ll find a river. Head further north, and wolves and bears start to appear.
Akira: Wolves and bears...!? Do they attack humans?
Shino: If you get too close to them, yeah. But don’t worry. They don’t really come any further than the river. Or so they say in the old Sherwood legends.
Akira: Legends...?
Shino: Once upon a time, a clever, sly bear fooled a witch and kept all the food to himself.
The infuriated witch turned the nuts and berries into poison. The bear had nothing to eat, and retreated to the depths of the woods. So the legend goes.
Akira: I see... If bears really don’t appear in this area, that might be true?
Shino: Ahaha. You believe in legends? You’re cute sometimes, Sage.
There’s just more food deeper in the woods, so they don’t bother coming this way.
Though it is true that the trees by the river have poisonous berries.
Akira: I see. You really do know so much. I feel at ease in this huge forest if you’re guiding me through it, Shino.
Shino: Heh. Of course.
SPOT-RELATED STORY (2)
Shino: Apparently, back in the ancient days, it was said that this entire forest was a god.
Akira: Faust said something similar. That this forest is holy.
Shino: I don’t know if god exists, but I can sense that this forest has a mind of its own.
That’s why I understand why people who aren’t familiar with the forest think of it as a god.
Akira: The forest has a mind.... Can wizards hear the voices of nature, like those of trees and flowers?
Shino: They don’t talk. But you can sense their spirits. And they lend you their strength.
Akira: Spirits... I can’t sense that at all....
Shino: For me, it’s harder to believe that you can’t.
Sherwood Forest loves the Blanchette household. I can tell it’s trying to protect it.
That’s why I get along with this forest.
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BREAK TIME (1)
Shino: This way, Sage. It’s this tree. The tallest one in the forest.
Akira: Woah... it’s incredible.
Shino: A frigate bird creates a nest on that branch every year. It’s not there now, though.
You probably want to go to the top of the highest tree in the forest too, right?
Akira: Eh? N-no, I don’t particularly....
Shino: Don’t be shy. Tourists usually beg me to bring them up there.
<<Matztzah Sudipas>>!
Akira: Wh-wh-wah!
Shino: Here we go... We made it to the top, Sage.
Akira: I-i-i-i-it’s so high up....!
Shino: How do you feel?
> Option: G-great!
Shino: Right? Isn’t the sunset beautiful in Sherwood Forest?
Akira: I-it really is worth the fright...! Thank you....!
Shino: You’re shaking, Sage.
> Option: I-I want to head down...!
Shino: Eh? Already? But we’re at the top?
Don’t be shy.
Akira: No, I’m serious...!
BREAK TIME (2)
Akira: There you are, Heathcliff. ...? Were you making something?
Heathcliff: A...h, Sir Sage.... Um....
Akira: It’s a wooden rabbit... Eh, wait, Heath, you made this? That’s amazing...!
Heathcliff: No, not at all. There are lots of professional craftsmen around here, so mine is just like a knockoff....
Akira: That’s not true. You’re very dexterous, Heath. Can I watch you carve?
Heathcliff: Ah... yes....
Um... I was thinking I’d like to give this to you once I’m done, Sir Sage....
Akira: To me? Are you sure?
Heathcliff: Yes... As a token, if you’d like.
Akira: I’m so happy! I’ll decorate my room with it once we return to the magic headquarters. I’m looking forward to it.
Heathcliff: Haha... I’m glad.
It’ll be done soon, so please wait just a bit.
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SPOT IMPRESSIONS (1)
Faust: Vast and quiet — what a good forest this is.
Akira: I agree.... But isn’t it a bit scary at night?
Faust: I like this kind of place, so I wouldn’t mind staying here forever.
If you go a bit deeper into the woods, I bet you can avoid meeting people altogether. I could even live here.
Akira: Faust, that’s top-notch praise coming from you....
Faust: Yes. This place is rich in natural resources too.
The grass by your foot and the nuts on that tree are both edible; the leaves growing over that way can be used as medicinal herbs.
....I want to live here for at least one hundred years.
Akira: This forest is that good....
Faust: Yes, I’m relieved to see those two grew up in a good environment.
But I guess the forest guardian Shino would chase me out if I lived here without permission. Do I need to get permission from Heathcliff?
Guess I’ll grant them favors now so that I can move here once I retire.
Akira: (Faust... He’s surprisingly in a good mood for once....)
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (2)
Akira: I heard that wizards get energized when they’re in places like this forest. Do you want to live here too, Nero?
Nero: Hm... I wonder.
Might be nice to drop by for a change of pace, but it’s a little too lonely for me to live here.
I’d like a place that’s more developed, or alternatively, a place that’s a little difficult to live in.
Akira: I see... That’s a bit surprising.
Nero: Really?
Akira: How should I put it... I sort of thought you’d think lively locations were a pain....
Nero: Ah.... Well, yeah, that’s true, but.
See, I have no other hobbies beyond cooking, so. I’m not really good at staying in places where there isn’t much to do for an extended period of time.
Shino lived in these woods, right? I bet he’s really good at playing all alone.
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (3)
Rutile: Woah.... The soil in this forest is very soft.
I found a small river and a lake, too. There’s a lot of water, and the greenery is beautiful....
Akira: You look like you’re having fun, Rutile. Do you like Sherwood Forest?
Rutile: Very much! The soil in the South is barren, so it can’t produce a deep forest like this one.
Akira: Oh.... Southern Country has lots of wasteland and rocky mountains, right?
Rutile: Yes.... Ah, but I love my home country too.
It’s just that there are so many plants and flowers I’ve never seen before, so I’d love to take my students from the South here to show them.
Akira: It is a difficult distance for those who can’t use magic to travel....
Rutile: It’s still difficult for me, but one day, after lots of practice at the magic headquarters, and after my magic becomes powerful....
I’d like to place everyone on a giant magic carpet and take them here.
Akira: ....Rutile, using magic to fly....?
(They’re going to arrive in no time.)
Rutile: Now I’m getting pumped up! Time to do my best.
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A DANGEROUS PLACE
Shino: Sage. Here, over here.
Akira: Ah... There’s a hole in the ground. Is it an animal den?
Shino: Yup. Want to get a closer look? Over here.
Akira: Yes. It’s quite big.
Shino: This is a wolf den. A pack of wolves roams the area.
Akira: .........Eh....
Shino: That’s why it’s dangerous to come near here. Remember that.
Akira: Ah, awawawa....
Shino: They don’t use the den during this season, so it’s fine. I don’t sense any wolves nearby either.
But if I meet anyone with a bad attitude that I have to guide around, I approach this area on purpose.
They usually cry and apologize the moment they start hearing the wolves howl.
Akira: I’ll do my best to avoid angering you in these woods, Shino....
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SPOT DISCOVERY
Chloe: Ah! Hey, take a look, Sir Sage! I bet this is a greenflower!
Akira: A greenflower?
Chloe: Doesn’t it have a cute shape? It’s a flower that you can only find in the East and the South.
....No, wait, maybe it’s a vegetable. It tastes good in salads, after all.
....Wow. There are so many beautiful flowers that I’ve never seen before blooming in Sherwood Forest.
Akira: Chloe, do you like flowers?
Chloe: More like I like their shapes. I keep thinking, I bet it would be pretty if I embroidered them.
Akira: I see. That sounds lovely.
Chloe: Right? What kind of designs do you like, Sir Sage?
> Option: Large flowers....
Chloe: Nice! You can decorate the area from the shoulder to the chest with large flowers....
That gives off a flashy but noble impression, so I think it’d suit Rustica, Murr... and Shino and Arthur, too!
> Option: Small flowers...
Chloe: I see! If you decorate cuffs and and collars with detailed designs, that subtlety will make the clothes seem super fashionable!
That gives off a delicate and gentle impression, so I think it’d suit Rutile, Heath, and Riquet. It might actually work for Shylock too.
> Option: Leaves and vines....
Chloe: Those are fun! You can add them to just one side of your outfit, or you can put them on the backside, or on the sleeves.
They’re beautiful, but they also give off a sense of strength. I think they’d suit Nero or Leno, and Faust, too!
Chloe: I’m getting all these ideas now! If I manage to come up with a nice design, I’ll decorate your clothes too, Sir Sage!
Akira: Thank you, Chloe. I’ll look forward to it.
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A FUN PLACE
Shino: There are lots of berries around here. Look, over here, too. If you head that way you’ll find mushrooms and mountain vegetables.
There... we go. Here, try eating that.
Akira: Thank you... Hm....
Woah... It looked sour, but it’s really sweet.
Shino: Right? The berries that grow right here are the sweetest in Sherwood Forest.
I would guide Heath here and we’d gather berries together all the time. This is a secret spot that only I know about.
The berries are delicious if you eat them as they are, but if we brought back lots of berries, then Mistress would bake us pies and cakes with them.
Akira: I see. Pies and cakes sound delicious.
Shino: Yeah. So what will you bake me, Sage?
Akira: Mgh... Eh....?
Shino: Well, you don’t expect to eat these berries for free, right?
Akira: Eh!? Uh, umm.... That’s right!
> Option: I’ll consult Nero!
Shino: Nero, huh. Sounds good.
I’ll look forward to it.
> Option: I’ll try to make something!
Shino: Yay. I want pie.
I hear it’s difficult for beginners. Good luck.
> Option: How about you try to bake something, Shino?
Shino: Hey. Then I’d be doing everything from start to finish.
Akira: I’ll help you pick them!
Shino: Fine. Do a good job, then.
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SPOT SPECIALTY
Shino: This tree is the Moonlight Tree. Sherwood Forest has a particularly large number of them.
When night falls, the round fruits light up, and you can use them to guide you.
There... we go, here, Sage. I plucked one for you, so take a bite.
Akira: Wow. How fantastical.... Let me try this. ...Mm....
(It’s soft and sweet... Tastes like a peach!)
Shino: Take a bigger bite.
Akira: Y-yes. Mm... mgh....
Shino: ....
Akira: Hm. ...Woah!? It’s shining inside my stomach....!?
Woa.... wah! My body is shining too....!
Shino: Ahaha. Sage, your reactions are always so fun.
You can use that as your light for a while.
Akira: Sh-Shino...! W-will this ever stop!?
Shino: Eventually.
...Hm. Omnom.... Yup. The fruits here taste the best.
We should have everyone else eat them too. Let’s go, Sage.
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MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Sherwood Forest
Spot Memories (1)-(3)
Impressions of Shino (1)-(5)
Shino's Reputation
On Eastern Country
On the < Great Catastrophe >
People at the Spot
Wizard at the Spot
Guardian of the Woods
Spot-Related Story (1)(2)
Break Time (1)(2)
Spot Impressions (1)-(3)
A Dangerous Place
Spot Discovery
A Fun Place
Spot Specialty
SPOT MEMORIES (1)
Akira: Shino, did you and Heathcliff practice magic in this forest?
Shino: Yeah. I’ve mentioned it before, but we had a wizard who was our master.
Akira: Heath told me about him, too. And that he and your master were chosen as Sage’s wizards together.
Shino: That’s right. I thought he was a suspicious and unreasonable guy since the first time I met him.
But Master was the one who introduced us to him, and Heath took him seriously, so I followed his instructions at first, but....
In the end, he was nothing but a violent and irresponsible liar.
Akira: I see....
Shino: Look at the top of that tree. There’s a gash on the trunk.
Akira: Ah, you’re right. It’s a bit high up for a wild animal to have made it....
Shino: I did that.
I tried to practice a powerful spell and messed up. Thanks to our master’s irresponsible teachings, I didn’t know how to control my power.
My magic blade got so close to our master’s face....
That it shaved off his one eyebrow and the trunk of that tree. His eyebrowless face was funny, so I wish I could’ve shown you.
SPOT MEMORIES (2)
Akira: Low down on the wall of that shack over there. It looks like there are markings of some sort. Are those yellow and blue lines?
Shino: That’s how we recorded our heights. Heath and I drew lines on the wall together.
Akira: You two used to be so small.
Shino: Of course. We were all brats once.
Akira: (These yellow lines — there’s a lot of space between each one. I guess this was his growth spurt.)
(The blue lines are drawn in small increments. Don’t tell me...)
Shino: Hey, Sage. What’s wrong. You’re spacing out.
...Ah. Hey, don’t look at the blue lines so closely!
My growth spurt is probably coming soon.
SPOT MEMORIES (3)
Heathcliff: This area of the woods is Blanchette castle’s hunting grounds.
Hunting is a popular sport among the nobles, but I’m not very good at it.
Akira: Hunting, huh... I don’t think I could manage either.
Heathcliff: You too, Sir Sage?
For me, even if I manage to find game, I feel terrible and I can’t shoot it, because it’s a living creature....
The first time I went hunting, I couldn’t catch a single animal, and I thought it didn’t really matter. But Shino, who tagged along, got mad....
Akira: Shino did?
Heathcliff: He said they’d laugh at me if I came back with nothing; that I’d look pathetic if I did.
And then he left and brought back a rabbit.
Akira: Ah... For you, Heath...?
Heathcliff: Yes. He told me to say I hunted it. So of course we ended up fighting. He wouldn’t listen when I told him I didn’t need it.
Hunting is cruel, and it makes you feel terrible for the poor animal, but... Unless you’re the one who shot it, you don’t really think about that when you eat meat during dinnertime.
I think Shino understands that.
Akira: .......
Heathcliff: That night, I got so confused and sad, and... Curled up in my sheets and cried.
We managed to make up the next day, but... I still don’t like hunting.
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IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (1)
Akira: Faust, what kind of child is Shino, in your opinion?
Faust: ...He has a foul mouth—but despite his upbringing he’s honest, and a good boy at heart.
He has the strength to confront any kind of tribulation. I don’t worry about him.
But he does act spoiled around Heathcliff, and is occasionally oppressive. They fight all the time.
Akira: ...You’re right. I do get that sense.
Faust: It’s a pain, so I hope they learn to stop fighting one day, but....
Heathcliff is also surprisingly stubborn at times. It might be difficult.
Akira: Hmm.... You’re right....
Faust: Also, every once in a while when I praise him, he pesters me to bake him pie.
I keep refusing, saying, I’m not your Mama, but then he just goes to Nero.
Akira: Nero might complain, but he’ll always listen to food requests in the end, after all.
Faust: I guess that kind of toughness and willpower are strengths of his.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (2)
Akira: Heathcliff, how do you feel about Shino?
Heathcliff: Eh, Shino? That came out of nowhere....
Akira: Ah, I’m sorry. I just got the feeling that you two seemed more energetic than usual when you were in the forest.
I see that you’re master and servant, but you look like brothers, or best friends, too.
Heathcliff: Eh... Does it seem like that? I’m a little embarrassed....
> Option: Shino is particularly energetic.
Heathcliff: Ahaha... Sorry, he gets to guide everyone around and show them things when we’re here, so he’s having fun, or should I say....
He wants to act like a big brother. I think he probably wants people to rely on him. ...Even though he wants to be spoiled all the time too.
Akira: Shino is reliable. He always helps me out.
Heathcliff: Honestly, I rely on him a bit too. So when you say it, Sir Sage, I feel kind of happy.
> Option: What kind of person is Shino to you?
Heathcliff: Let’s see... He’s my friend, and sometimes he’s my little brother.
He’s reckless and I can’t take my eyes off of him, but I think Shino probably thinks he’s taking care of me, too.
Akira: It’s a mutual feeling — I can kind of sense that. I think you have a good relationship.
Heathcliff: Is that so? I thought we were childish, but if you put it like that, maybe you’re right....
> Option: How do you feel about the promise?
Heathcliff: This is a secret, but I wish we could be together forever, even if the promise never existed, but....
I’m a little worried that the promise is weighing him down.
Akira: I think that Shino also wishes to be by your side forever, even without the promise. That’s my impression.
Heathcliff: I wonder.... But hearing that from you makes me feel a little relieved.
Thank you, Sir Sage.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (3)
Akira: As his senior wizard, what do you think of Shino, Nero?
Nero: That’s a pretty broad question you’re asking. But, well....
I think he’ll become pretty strong in the future.
The fact that he got to freely use magic in nature since he was a child probably helps. That’s rare nowadays.
Akira: I see. Getting used to it is important?
Nero: Yup, yup. He’s still a mischievous kid on the inside, though.
If you praise him a little, he starts asking you to bake him his favorite pies and cookies, right?
For someone who’s done everything on his own up till now, he’s got a cute streak in him.
Akira: So from your point of view, he’s kind of cute.
Nero: Man, he’s basically a baby. I bet all the older wizards feel that way too.
It’s also cute how he’s vowed loyalty to Heath in his own way.
And it’s cute how he tries to learn everything he can from Faust, too.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (4)
Akira: Lennox, what do you think of Shino?
Lennox: ....What do you mean?
Akira: Ah, I’m sorry. It’s nothing too deep. Just how you think he’s doing, and all....
Lennox: How he’s doing....
He came to me the other day. Said he wanted me to teach him how to fight with his bare hands.
But... I’m not very good at teaching, so I had to explain through actual practice.
Akira: So you mean... You basically used your moves on each other?
Lennox: Yes. And then after I beat him a number of times, he said, I’ll get back at you, and disappeared.
Akira: (He must have been really frustrated....)
Lennox: I was afraid I’d made him mad, but when night came around, he said, “Thanks for this afternoon,” and brought grass for the sheep.
Then he said he’d be back when he could beat me.
Akira: He’s gutsy.....
Lennox: I wanted to hold back a little if possible, but....
Akira: Ah, I understand. Shino seems like the kind of boy who would get mad if you went easy on him.
Lennox: Haha.... Exactly.
He’s very competitive, but I think he has both a strong heart and body.
IMPRESSIONS OF SHINO (5)
Rustica: Shino is full of energy. He’s brisk, so he yells at me now and then.
Akira: You two are kind of a surprising combination. Do you play with Shino, Rustica?
Rustica: I don’t know if I’d say we play, but when I’m performing the harpsichord, Shino often stops by to listen.
Akira: Shino does? That’s a little surprising....
Rustica: Really? Wizards all love to follow their senses.
If he lived in this quiet forest, he might not have had many opportunities to come into contact with music.
Akira: I see... It makes me kind of happy to see Shino discovering new things that he likes at the magic headquarters.
Rustica: I feel the same. If you’d like, please join us next time.
Shino always listens intently, and then briefly tells me how he felt at the end of the session, so I look forward to that.
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SHINO’S REPUTATION
Akira: Arthur. There you are. Were you talking to someone?
Arthur: Yes. I met a woodcutter from this forest.
He told me that Shino saved him once, when he was crushed by a tree that fell over.
Akira: Shino saved someone?
Arthur: Yes. Apparently he used magic, but the woodcutter was terribly afraid, because he thought wizards were evil...
And he feels awful about it now. Though Shino didn’t seem to care.
Akira: I didn’t know that happened.... Though I can imagine Shino not caring.
Arthur: I agree. He was surprised when I told him that I was a wizard as well, but....
He said he trusted me if I was Shino’s comrade.
I hear the people of the East are suspicious of wizards, but there are people who think of Shino this way — he’s reliable, and I’m proud of him.
Akira: Yes... I feel the same way.
Arthur: Once we get back to the magic headquarters, I’d like to ask Shino about it.
I too must work hard, just like Shino.
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ON EASTERN COUNTRY
Akira: Heath, are you most comfortable living in Eastern Country?
Heathcliff: I don’t know.... Ever since going to Central Country, I’ve begun to think that it feels a little cramped living here.
The Blanchette territories aren’t that bad, but the capital is full of laws, and very strict.
If you want to live and interact with others, I think Central or South might be a better place to live than here.
Akira: I see...
Heathcliff: Ah, but of course there are lots of good things about this country too.
I love places full of nature, and when I’m in this forest, I feel most like myself, more than anywhere else.
Akira: You’re right. I might be more relaxed than usual....
Heathcliff: Ahaha....
We’ve been to many places together ever since you arrived at the magic headquarters, but....
When it comes to nature, I always think Eastern Country is the most beautiful.
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ON THE < GREAT CATASTROPHE >
Shino: When I was a kid, Master would let me into the castle on the day the
I was so happy I’d get to spend time with Master and Mistress and Heath that I would look forward to the day of the Catastrophe, and the other servants would be like, you damn wizard!
Akira: That’s cruel, but it’s true that it really is a day of bad omens....
Shino: Heath is a worrywart, so he was always terrified, and I would cheer him up every time.
Even if I said, it goes back to the sky every year, so of course it’s going to be fine this year too, he still was scared every year.
.....
Akira: What happened?
Shino: ...I remembered something. About that time.
“If I ever become a Sage’s wizard, I’ll chase back the < Great Catastrophe >. So don’t worry.” That’s what I said to him.
Akira: Shino... You’ve been kind ever since you were little.
Shino: Not really.
But this year, I need to make my words come true.
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PEOPLE AT THE SPOT
Nero: Mr. Sage. There’s somewhere I wanna drop by. Can I go?
I’ll be back before the sun sets.
Akira: Yes, that’s fine, but... Where are you going?
Nero: Apparently there are hunting grounds nearby Blanchette Castle. I wanted to go take a look.
Akira: Hunting grounds? You’re going to hunt, Nero?
Nero: Yup, yup. I met a hunter from these woods over there.
They said they have boars and deer and rabbits and pheasants, all sorts of things, so I thought I’d have them share some with me.
Akira: I see. You’ve gotten close with the locals.
Nero: Yup. At first they were all wary, but the moment I dropped young master Heathcliff’s name, they told me all sorts of things.
Oh, right. That’s why I’ll be taking Heathcliff with me too. Where is he?
Akira: I think he’s over that way. Please be careful.
Nero: Thanks. Look forward to dinner, okay?
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WIZARD AT THE SPOT
Faust: Apparently there used to be a witch who would kidnap children living near this forest.
Akira: Children...? Why...?
Faust: Why, you ask?
If you’re a wizard in this country, where persecution and prejudice exist to this day, there are more than enough reasons.
Akira: Ah....
Faust: Perhaps she loathed wizards. Perhaps she couldn’t stand the loneliness of being alone. Perhaps she was looking for ritual sacrifices....
Whatever the case, if you want to spend a long, long time alone, you either need to attack others or yourself, or simply withstand it and get used to it.
Akira: ....Faust, have you also gotten used to being alone all the time?
Faust: .....
I wonder.
Akira: (I thought he would say, of course I did....)
Faust: You can no longer sense the witch’s presence in these woods.
She must have been chased away or turned to stone.
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GUARDIAN OF THE WOODS
Shino: Sage. Wait. There’s someone here.
Akira: Eh?
Shino: ...Hey, you guys over there. Come on out. Unless you want to get hurt.
Shino says towards the shadows of the trees, and a number of large, well-built men appear.
Well-Built Man: The guardian Shino....!? I thought he was supposed to be gone for a while, why is he here....
Shino: You... Did you come to vandalize this forest again?
Didn’t I tell you to never step foot into these woods again the last time I captured you? Looks like those ears of yours are worthless.
<< Matztzah Sudipas >>
Well-Built Man: Aaah....! I’ll leave! We’ll leave right now so please spare us!
Well-Built Man: R-run...!
(Footsteps)
Shino: Tch... Sage, stay right here. I’ll chase them down and teach them a lesson.
Akira: Y-yes. But if they haven’t done any damage yet, please go easy on them...!
Shino: You’re soft. But don’t worry, I just learned how to hold back.
I’m off now.
(Footsteps)
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SPOT-RELATED STORY (1)
Shino: If you head further into the depths eastwards from here, you’ll find a river. Head further north, and wolves and bears start to appear.
Akira: Wolves and bears...!? Do they attack humans?
Shino: If you get too close to them, yeah. But don’t worry. They don’t really come any further than the river. Or so they say in the old Sherwood legends.
Akira: Legends...?
Shino: Once upon a time, a clever, sly bear fooled a witch and kept all the food to himself.
The infuriated witch turned the nuts and berries into poison. The bear had nothing to eat, and retreated to the depths of the woods. So the legend goes.
Akira: I see... If bears really don’t appear in this area, that might be true?
Shino: Ahaha. You believe in legends? You’re cute sometimes, Sage.
There’s just more food deeper in the woods, so they don’t bother coming this way.
Though it is true that the trees by the river have poisonous berries.
Akira: I see. You really do know so much. I feel at ease in this huge forest if you’re guiding me through it, Shino.
Shino: Heh. Of course.
SPOT-RELATED STORY (2)
Shino: Apparently, back in the ancient days, it was said that this entire forest was a god.
Akira: Faust said something similar. That this forest is holy.
Shino: I don’t know if god exists, but I can sense that this forest has a mind of its own.
That’s why I understand why people who aren’t familiar with the forest think of it as a god.
Akira: The forest has a mind.... Can wizards hear the voices of nature, like those of trees and flowers?
Shino: They don’t talk. But you can sense their spirits. And they lend you their strength.
Akira: Spirits... I can’t sense that at all....
Shino: For me, it’s harder to believe that you can’t.
Sherwood Forest loves the Blanchette household. I can tell it’s trying to protect it.
That’s why I get along with this forest.
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BREAK TIME (1)
Shino: This way, Sage. It’s this tree. The tallest one in the forest.
Akira: Woah... it’s incredible.
Shino: A frigate bird creates a nest on that branch every year. It’s not there now, though.
You probably want to go to the top of the highest tree in the forest too, right?
Akira: Eh? N-no, I don’t particularly....
Shino: Don’t be shy. Tourists usually beg me to bring them up there.
<<Matztzah Sudipas>>!
Akira: Wh-wh-wah!
Shino: Here we go... We made it to the top, Sage.
Akira: I-i-i-i-it’s so high up....!
Shino: How do you feel?
> Option: G-great!
Shino: Right? Isn’t the sunset beautiful in Sherwood Forest?
Akira: I-it really is worth the fright...! Thank you....!
Shino: You’re shaking, Sage.
> Option: I-I want to head down...!
Shino: Eh? Already? But we’re at the top?
Don’t be shy.
Akira: No, I’m serious...!
BREAK TIME (2)
Akira: There you are, Heathcliff. ...? Were you making something?
Heathcliff: A...h, Sir Sage.... Um....
Akira: It’s a wooden rabbit... Eh, wait, Heath, you made this? That’s amazing...!
Heathcliff: No, not at all. There are lots of professional craftsmen around here, so mine is just like a knockoff....
Akira: That’s not true. You’re very dexterous, Heath. Can I watch you carve?
Heathcliff: Ah... yes....
Um... I was thinking I’d like to give this to you once I’m done, Sir Sage....
Akira: To me? Are you sure?
Heathcliff: Yes... As a token, if you’d like.
Akira: I’m so happy! I’ll decorate my room with it once we return to the magic headquarters. I’m looking forward to it.
Heathcliff: Haha... I’m glad.
It’ll be done soon, so please wait just a bit.
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SPOT IMPRESSIONS (1)
Faust: Vast and quiet — what a good forest this is.
Akira: I agree.... But isn’t it a bit scary at night?
Faust: I like this kind of place, so I wouldn’t mind staying here forever.
If you go a bit deeper into the woods, I bet you can avoid meeting people altogether. I could even live here.
Akira: Faust, that’s top-notch praise coming from you....
Faust: Yes. This place is rich in natural resources too.
The grass by your foot and the nuts on that tree are both edible; the leaves growing over that way can be used as medicinal herbs.
....I want to live here for at least one hundred years.
Akira: This forest is that good....
Faust: Yes, I’m relieved to see those two grew up in a good environment.
But I guess the forest guardian Shino would chase me out if I lived here without permission. Do I need to get permission from Heathcliff?
Guess I’ll grant them favors now so that I can move here once I retire.
Akira: (Faust... He’s surprisingly in a good mood for once....)
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (2)
Akira: I heard that wizards get energized when they’re in places like this forest. Do you want to live here too, Nero?
Nero: Hm... I wonder.
Might be nice to drop by for a change of pace, but it’s a little too lonely for me to live here.
I’d like a place that’s more developed, or alternatively, a place that’s a little difficult to live in.
Akira: I see... That’s a bit surprising.
Nero: Really?
Akira: How should I put it... I sort of thought you’d think lively locations were a pain....
Nero: Ah.... Well, yeah, that’s true, but.
See, I have no other hobbies beyond cooking, so. I’m not really good at staying in places where there isn’t much to do for an extended period of time.
Shino lived in these woods, right? I bet he’s really good at playing all alone.
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (3)
Rutile: Woah.... The soil in this forest is very soft.
I found a small river and a lake, too. There’s a lot of water, and the greenery is beautiful....
Akira: You look like you’re having fun, Rutile. Do you like Sherwood Forest?
Rutile: Very much! The soil in the South is barren, so it can’t produce a deep forest like this one.
Akira: Oh.... Southern Country has lots of wasteland and rocky mountains, right?
Rutile: Yes.... Ah, but I love my home country too.
It’s just that there are so many plants and flowers I’ve never seen before, so I’d love to take my students from the South here to show them.
Akira: It is a difficult distance for those who can’t use magic to travel....
Rutile: It’s still difficult for me, but one day, after lots of practice at the magic headquarters, and after my magic becomes powerful....
I’d like to place everyone on a giant magic carpet and take them here.
Akira: ....Rutile, using magic to fly....?
(They’re going to arrive in no time.)
Rutile: Now I’m getting pumped up! Time to do my best.
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A DANGEROUS PLACE
Shino: Sage. Here, over here.
Akira: Ah... There’s a hole in the ground. Is it an animal den?
Shino: Yup. Want to get a closer look? Over here.
Akira: Yes. It’s quite big.
Shino: This is a wolf den. A pack of wolves roams the area.
Akira: .........Eh....
Shino: That’s why it’s dangerous to come near here. Remember that.
Akira: Ah, awawawa....
Shino: They don’t use the den during this season, so it’s fine. I don’t sense any wolves nearby either.
But if I meet anyone with a bad attitude that I have to guide around, I approach this area on purpose.
They usually cry and apologize the moment they start hearing the wolves howl.
Akira: I’ll do my best to avoid angering you in these woods, Shino....
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SPOT DISCOVERY
Chloe: Ah! Hey, take a look, Sir Sage! I bet this is a greenflower!
Akira: A greenflower?
Chloe: Doesn’t it have a cute shape? It’s a flower that you can only find in the East and the South.
....No, wait, maybe it’s a vegetable. It tastes good in salads, after all.
....Wow. There are so many beautiful flowers that I’ve never seen before blooming in Sherwood Forest.
Akira: Chloe, do you like flowers?
Chloe: More like I like their shapes. I keep thinking, I bet it would be pretty if I embroidered them.
Akira: I see. That sounds lovely.
Chloe: Right? What kind of designs do you like, Sir Sage?
> Option: Large flowers....
Chloe: Nice! You can decorate the area from the shoulder to the chest with large flowers....
That gives off a flashy but noble impression, so I think it’d suit Rustica, Murr... and Shino and Arthur, too!
> Option: Small flowers...
Chloe: I see! If you decorate cuffs and and collars with detailed designs, that subtlety will make the clothes seem super fashionable!
That gives off a delicate and gentle impression, so I think it’d suit Rutile, Heath, and Riquet. It might actually work for Shylock too.
> Option: Leaves and vines....
Chloe: Those are fun! You can add them to just one side of your outfit, or you can put them on the backside, or on the sleeves.
They’re beautiful, but they also give off a sense of strength. I think they’d suit Nero or Leno, and Faust, too!
Chloe: I’m getting all these ideas now! If I manage to come up with a nice design, I’ll decorate your clothes too, Sir Sage!
Akira: Thank you, Chloe. I’ll look forward to it.
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A FUN PLACE
Shino: There are lots of berries around here. Look, over here, too. If you head that way you’ll find mushrooms and mountain vegetables.
There... we go. Here, try eating that.
Akira: Thank you... Hm....
Woah... It looked sour, but it’s really sweet.
Shino: Right? The berries that grow right here are the sweetest in Sherwood Forest.
I would guide Heath here and we’d gather berries together all the time. This is a secret spot that only I know about.
The berries are delicious if you eat them as they are, but if we brought back lots of berries, then Mistress would bake us pies and cakes with them.
Akira: I see. Pies and cakes sound delicious.
Shino: Yeah. So what will you bake me, Sage?
Akira: Mgh... Eh....?
Shino: Well, you don’t expect to eat these berries for free, right?
Akira: Eh!? Uh, umm.... That’s right!
> Option: I’ll consult Nero!
Shino: Nero, huh. Sounds good.
I’ll look forward to it.
> Option: I’ll try to make something!
Shino: Yay. I want pie.
I hear it’s difficult for beginners. Good luck.
> Option: How about you try to bake something, Shino?
Shino: Hey. Then I’d be doing everything from start to finish.
Akira: I’ll help you pick them!
Shino: Fine. Do a good job, then.
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SPOT SPECIALTY
Shino: This tree is the Moonlight Tree. Sherwood Forest has a particularly large number of them.
When night falls, the round fruits light up, and you can use them to guide you.
There... we go, here, Sage. I plucked one for you, so take a bite.
Akira: Wow. How fantastical.... Let me try this. ...Mm....
(It’s soft and sweet... Tastes like a peach!)
Shino: Take a bigger bite.
Akira: Y-yes. Mm... mgh....
Shino: ....
Akira: Hm. ...Woah!? It’s shining inside my stomach....!?
Woa.... wah! My body is shining too....!
Shino: Ahaha. Sage, your reactions are always so fun.
You can use that as your light for a while.
Akira: Sh-Shino...! W-will this ever stop!?
Shino: Eventually.
...Hm. Omnom.... Yup. The fruits here taste the best.
We should have everyone else eat them too. Let’s go, Sage.
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