healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-05-13 09:45 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-05-13 09:45 pm
Entry tags:
Heathcliff | The Dilemma of the Promise
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
CHAPTER 1
Heathcliff: Sir Sage.
Akira: Heathcliff, have you gotten used to living in the magic headquarters?
Heathcliff: Ah... Actually, I wanted to consult you about this. I wanted to head back to Eastern Country....
Akira: Eh!? W-was living with everyone too stressful!? Heathcliff, you're a noble's son, after all—.
Heathcliff: Ah! No, that’s not it! They’re having a royal ceremony in the East, and I have to attend....
Akira: Ah, thank goodness. That's completely fine. Please take care.
Heathcliff: Yes, thank you.
Heathcliff smiles timidly. He's such a beautiful youth that it takes your breath away.
He looks fragile and melancholy; there’s a slight darkness about him, but his beauty never makes you feel gloomy.
He makes everyone around him feel gentle — the way you'd want to protect a delicate flower from a powerful breeze that will whisk away its petals.
Akira: So what is this ceremony in Eastern Country?
Heathcliff: It's to celebrate the king's birthday. Usually my father is the only one who attends, but this year, the king specifically requested my presence....
Option: Do you dislike ceremonies?
Heathcliff: Well, yes.... The ritual etiquette is very specific, and I’m always nervous about messing up.
But that’s not the only issue this time....
Akira: What is it...?
Option: It’s amazing that he requested your presence.
Akira: It’s amazing that he requested your presence. Does the king like you?
Heathcliff is a beautiful boy, so I'm sure many people love him.
But he laughs self-deprecatingly.
Heathcliff: Of course not. It's because I'm a wizard...
Heathcliff: ...He probably wants to ask about the battle with the.
I don't really want to discuss it with him, since it's when many of the wizards I knew turned to stone, but....
(Footsteps)
Shino: I'll go with you.
Heathcliff: Shino....
CHAPTER 2
Shino: I'll protect you from all the talkative guys. Plus, if it’s a ceremony with the king, it'll be a good chance to sell my name.
Heathcliff: It's not the kind of event I can take you to. Plus, if two wizards go, the whole palace will be on guard.
Shino: So what? I'll protect you; that's my job. I’ll make sure nothing awful happens to you.
Heathcliff: ......I take back what I said. This ceremony isn’t a bother at all. When I'm with you, I can't even complain, Shino....
Shino: What!?
Heathcliff: Thanks for your concern. Sorry, but I can't bring you along. If something happens, Father is the one who will take the blame.
Shino: Did you just say I'll cause Master trouble!?
Heathcliff: That's not....
Akira: Shino, Shino! Calm down!
Shino: .....
Fine. Do as you please.
(Footsteps)
Akira: Ah...! Shino, wait...!
Heathcliff: It's fine, Sir Sage.
Akira: But....
Heathcliff: ...I don't want to see Shino mess up and disappoint himself at an event like that. This is for the better.
I'll be gone for the weekend, then. Thank you.
✦✧☾✧✦
Faust: I heard about Heath's trip back home. And he fought with Shino about it?
Akira: Yes... I was worried about them...
Faust: Hmph... They refused to talk to each other during class, too. These children are such a pain.
But I can see why Shino would be concerned. Half of our comrades turned to stone during that battle; among them was Heath's master.
Akira: His master....?
Faust: He approached the Master of Blanchett in hopes of making a fortune; that's how he wound up as Shino and Heath's teacher. He was a weak, irresponsible guy who didn't even know the basics.
Even so, I can see why Heath would be shocked by him turning into stone in front of his eyes. It's still fresh in his mind.
I don't want to send Heath into a crowd of people who will rip open his wounds. Can't you do something about it with your power as a Sage?
CHAPTER 3
Akira: What power do I even have...?
Faust: Who knows? I don't. The royal family watches Heath’s family closely in that country. They place a lot of pressure upon them.
Akira: I heard they were a powerful family of nobles. They don't get along with the king...?
Faust: It's because they're a powerful family. A noble who’s popular among the people is a threat to a king.
Cain: Plus, he's a Sage's wizard. They definitely don't want Heath to become a national hero.
Akira: Cain...
Cain: Sorry for jumping into your conversation. I heard you talking. Can you touch my hand?
Once Faust and I touch Cain’s hand, he continues speaking.
Cain: I was also bombarded with questions at Central. They praised me as a hero, but I couldn’t feel good about it at all.
I, too, failed to protect my comrades.... Even though I'm a knight.
The wind blows, and the sun is hidden behind the clouds. Faust and Cain’s faces are shrouded by darkness.
Their silence conveyed the horrors and the sadness of their last battle better than any words could.
I recall what Heathcliff told me the first time we met.
Mr. Faust... I would like you to save Mr. Faust.
...Please... please, save him.....
Those pained, earnest eyes that exclaimed, I don't want to lose anyone else....
Cain: ....Heath was more hurt than anyone else. That's why, Faust... he was desperate to save you.
Your life was saved because Heath begged so earnestly that Sir Sage was moved to come here.
Faust: .........
How about I stop the ceremony with a curse.
Cain: Or we can barge in and steal Heath away......
Akira: P-please wait. We need to go about this in a way that won't cause Heath more trouble later on....
Faust & Cain: .............
Akira: I’ll try speaking to Heathcliff. There are other things I need to ask him about anyway.
Faust: .....I see. I’m counting on you.
CHAPTER 4
(Knock knock) (Door opens)
Heathcliff: Sir Sage....
Akira: How is packing going? I was wondering if you'd like some tea. I brought some sweets with me.
Heathcliff: Thank you. I was just about to take a break. Please come on in.
Akira: Excuse me.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: So this is Heath's room....
Option: What is that blueprint for?
Heathcliff: It’s the blueprint for a watch. I make things like clockwork watches as a hobby.
Akira: I see! It’s amazing how you can make a watch on your own.
Heathcliff: No, not at all... this is really just a hobby.
Clocks are very intricate machinery; they have more than a hundred parts that you need to assemble properly, or else they’ll malfunction.
You also need to take care of them regularly to keep them working, and... Ah, I’m sorry. I was rambling.
Akira: No, it’s fascinating.
(Heath is this obsessed — he must really love watches....)
Option: There are lots of machines.
Akira: There are lots of machines. A typewriter, a phonograph....
Heathcliff: Yes... I like machines; they're intricate and delicately calculated, and function complexly.
They're like magic, but there's logic behind it all; if you take them apart, you can discover a precise answer....
If I weren't a noble's son or a wizard, I would've wanted to become a technician.
Option: Your desk is like a workshop.
Heathcliff: Ahaha... Well, I thought I might as well use it as I please while I’m away from my parents.
I like tinkering with machines. That’s why I admire Western Country with its advanced science and technology.
Akira: I see. I heard that Eastern Country is rich in nature, so I thought you would’ve felt the opposite way.
Heathcliff: Shylock said the same thing.
Shylock is a Western wizard, but he said he prefers nature to science and machinery.
Akira: Huh. Everyone feels differently, I see.
Heathcliff: Let me pour you some tea. Rutile gave me some delicious tea leaves.
(Clatter)
Akira: Thank you. Heath, I’m actually going about asking all the wizards about themselves.
So long as I record some information about you in the Sage’s manual, even if I suddenly have to go back to my world,....
I think you guys will be able to get along with the new Sage.
Heathcliff: ........
Akira: Heath?
Heathcliff: Ah... I'm sorry. That’s right.... Sir Sage, you're going to return to your world one day, aren't you.
I'm not confident I'll get along with the new Sage as much as I do with you, so.... it will make me sad....
Akira: (....Heath, you're so cute.....)
CHAPTER 5
Heathcliff: I'm sorry. I know you want to return to your world, Sir Sage. I shouldn't be saying this.
Akira: No no, it makes me happy. Anyway... can you tell me more about yourself, Heath?
Heathcliff: Yes. Um... I'm Heathcliff Blanchett. I was born in Eastern Country, and I’m 18 this year.
What else should I say....?
Akira: Could you tell me what you're good at, or what you dislike?
Heathcliff: I'm good at tinkering with machines, and engraving; anything that requires meticulous attention...? I also know basic royal etiquette.
I dislike... Dirty places or things. And scary stories. And bugs. And surprises, too.
Akira: I don’t like them very much either. I'm surprised you're good at tinkering with machines. I heard the West is more known for its machinery.
Heathcliff: Oh, I like the stuff that's less intense — like watches and trinkets you can make at a workshop. I actually kind of admire machines.
Akira: Really?
Heathcliff: Because if humans have machines, they can live convenient lives, the way wizards do.
I think that if everyone could live better lives, then maybe there would be less and less prejudice against wizards...
Akira: That's a good way of looking at it.
Heathcliff: But it's complicated. There are lots of problems surrounding the magic technology from Western Country that uses mana stones.
But one day... I hope this world will give rise to a culture where both humans and wizards can live in harmony.
Heath's gaze may be quiet, but it gleams with intellect and careful thought; it's productive, like a traveler waiting for the sun to rise.
He's not just "a shy, beautiful noble's son.” You can sense his broad perspective and quiet contemplation — the product of a sophisticated education.
(Heath doesn't clash with the short-tempered and ambitious Shino just because he's shy and introverted..... It's also because he sees the world the way an adult would.)
Heath’s watch appears out of thin air. It’s his magic tool.
Heathcliff: This is a pocket watch that my father gave me. I keep taking it apart, and putting it together.... The process soothes me.
Akira: Taking apart a watch seems like a lot of work... I wouldn't be able to put it back together.
Heathcliff: I was terrified at first too. But I really wanted to know how it worked, so... Now, I know it better than I know myself.
It's hard, figuring out what's going on inside your mind. My old master would always say, I don't know what you want to do.
Akira: Your master would?
CHAPTER 6
Heathcliff: He taught me and Shino magic. His name was Jack... He was supposed to be a famous wizard.
My father, who had learned that many wizards learn from others as master and pupil, asked him to take me and Shino on as his students when he dropped by the castle.
Akira: I see. And was he a powerful wizard?
Heathcliff: Well.... He wasn't.....
Akira: Eeh!?
(...Right, Faust mentioned this.)
Heathcliff: I later heard from Cain and Shylock...
That sometimes weak wizards take advantage of the fact that people don't understand wizards, and scam them.
They'd say they were famous wizards, and pretend they cursed you, or pretend they dispelled a curse, or sell you magical goods or talismans or books at ridiculous prices...
Akira: So in other words, you were scammed.
Heathcliff: .......Probably.....
Heath shakes his head in embarrassment.
Heath mentioned that his parents adore him; they probably had no intention of choosing a careless man as their beloved son's master just to soothe his loneliness.
But for humans, the world of wizards is so mysterious that they don't have enough information to gauge what's good and what's bad.
Akira: So, this Jack person...
Option: What is he doing now?
Akira: What is he doing now?
Heathcliff: ....
....He turned to stone during the last battle with the....
Akira: Ah... right... he was one of the Eastern wizards....
I'm sorry for bringing it up....
Heathcliff: No.....
Option: What kind of person was he?
Akira: What kind of person was he?
Heathcliff: In front of my father, he was a confident, eloquent man, but with me and Shino....
He was irresponsible and vain, loved alcohol and women, always lied, and liked to brag....
Akira: (So he’s really not a good person at all....)
Heathcliff: Shino really hated him. I didn’t like him much either....
But.... I am grateful to him for some things. I am sad about what happened to him during our last battle with the < Great Catastrophe >....
Akira: So you were both chosen as Sage's wizards to fight the < Great Catastrophe > together, and came to the magic headquarters?
Heathcliff: ...Yes. When I met all the other wizards here.... I realized for the first time that master wasn't powerful at all.
Shylock told me it was better to ask Faust for instruction than to listen to him.
Mr. Faust seemed scary, so I was nervous at first, but...
He wasn't happy about it, but he taught me all sorts of things. Like the fact that my magic was stronger than master's....
Akira: I see....
And were Shino and your parents angry about how he scammed you into thinking he was a famous wizard...?
Heathcliff: I haven't told my parents; I don't want them to be bothered by it. Shino was angry for a different reason.
Akira: A different reason?
CHAPTER 7
Heathcliff: We were told by our master to make a promise: that we would protect each other no matter what.
Akira: A promise... But for wizards, that's....
Heathcliff: Yes. If you break your promise, you lose your magic.
Heath looks down sadly. The shadows of his long eyelashes fall upon his cheeks like the feathers of a bird. Even his moving shadows are beautiful.
Akira: Why did Jack force you to make a promise? You’d risk losing your magic....
Heathcliff: He said it was to make our bond stronger as fellow disciples. But the truth is...
It's part of the scam that weak wizards use when they've gathered multiple students.
Because if one of them discovers the truth about their master, and they all become infuriated, you only need to defeat one of them for everyone else to lose their power.
And the master can run away into safety and gather students again....
How horrible.
Heathcliff and Shino's friendship is absolutely real; but now it feels like it’s been tainted with this fraudulent trick. I feel frustrated.
Of course they want to protect each other. But before they could verbalize that of their own will, they were forced to sign a careless contract....
Akira: (Maybe this is one of the reasons they can't feel very confident about their friendship....)
....It must feel incredibly frustrating that you were forced to make a promise like that, but I'm glad it wasn't a bad promise.
Shino and Heath... you two are friends, so you'd naturally want to protect each other, right?
Heathcliff: But that's.... Now that we've made the promise, its meaning begins to change.....
He closes his mouth and falls silent.
He's blinking over and over again while fiddling with his fingers. He hasn't closed himself off; I feel like he's just trying his best to search for the right words.
Heathcliff: I....
If I had known there was a way for me to lose my magic, I wish I could've made a careless promise with someone else and broken that instead.
Because while magic might be useful, there are more people who hate wizards than those who appreciate them.....
If it’s going to cause my dear parents this much trouble, I wish I could've thrown it away. ...But this is a promise that I can't break.....
I could just make a promise with someone else, and break that, but. I know that Shino's face will come to mind, and it will stop me.
That's why I wish I didn’t know. ...That there's a way for me to quit being the person I hate.....
Akira: Heath....
I couldn't say anything. Because his inner turmoil must be deeper than anything I could imagine.
For him, being a wizard is something that taints the honor of his beloved parents—and it is also the very thing that binds him with his dearest friend.
The thorns of those relationships wrap themselves tightly around his chest and stop him in his tracks.
CHAPTER 8
Heath looks at me and laughs apologetically.
Heathcliff: I'm sorry, Sir Sage. I'm making you worry again.... The ceremony, too....
You dropped by to check in on me because of that, right? Mr. Faust and Cain.... And Shino treated me the same way.
But I'm all right. I'm used to people saying all sorts of things about me. Please don't worry.
My heart lurched with pain. Heath will definitely get hurt if he goes; they'll ask for every detail about the battle.
No one should become used to experiencing pain.
Option: I’m sorry I can’t be of any help.
Akira: I’m sorry I can’t be of any help....
Heathcliff: Sir Sage....
Akira: I had considered having you not attend, or speaking to your parents, but I’m sure you’ve weighed your options far better than I could....
So I feel like they’d be irresponsible suggestions... And in the end, I didn’t know what I could do either....
I don’t want you to go through anything sorrowful. But I can’t be of any help... I’m sorry....
Heath gazes at me, and then smiles happily.
Heathcliff: I’m happy... That you tried hard to think about me.
The fact that you understand my feelings — that alone saves me.
Option: Is there anything I can do?
Akira: Is there anything I can do....?
Heathcliff: Eh...?
Akira: Um... like, I wonder if I can stop the ceremony with my power, or...
Heathcliff: S... Sir Sage, do you have any power...?
Akira: I don't know......
But if going to the ceremony will make you hate yourself, or make you hate humans, I don't want you to go, Heath.....
Heath blinks in surprise, and then softly laughs.
It was such a beautiful smile.
Heathcliff: Thank you, Sir Sage. Those words alone are enough.
Heathcliff: I will be all right. Just as you have written down so much about us in the Sage’s manual, for our sakes....
I will tell everyone about how our comrades during the last battle were amazing wizards.
CHAPTER 9
Akira: Sighs... In the end, I couldn't be of any help to Heath.
(Footsteps)
Shino: Sage.
Akira: Shino... Have you made up with Heath yet?
Shino: Not yet. I will before he goes.
Akira: Please do. Heath is probably feeling lonely too....
Shino: Lonely? That's not fair. He's always the one who's leaving me behind. He won't rely on me.
Akira: ......
Shino: Heath won't boast about it, but he's intelligent and beautiful. He's a well-known noble within the country too.
He was perfect at absolutely everything so that no one would complain about the fact that he was a wizard.
I can't forgive anyone who laughs at him. Don't stop me, Sage. I'm definitely going with him.
Akira: ....I understand. I'll try to convince Heath to take you along before he leaves, Shino.
The day of Heath’s return to Eastern Country has arrived.
Shino and I were ready to convince him. To protect the gentle, frail Heath.
But it turns out that Heath was far stronger than we imagined.
Because the Heath who appears before us has tucked away his frailty. He has the face of a flawless noble, with perfect mannerisms and a refined smile.
Heathcliff: I'll be off, Sir Sage.
Akira: Ah...
CHAPTER 10
I’m overwhelmed by Heath's gracious smile.
Heath then looks to Shino, who is standing by me.
Heathcliff: Shino. Can you vow not to taint Father's and the Blanchett family's name?
Shino nods with a powerful gaze.
Shino: ...I do.
Heath gently narrows his eyes and smiles.
Heathcliff: Then come with me. I need you.
Shino's joy in that moment cannot be described in words.
(Woosh)
Heath takes his broom and flies into the blue sky.
I wave at the two of them, watching them as they ascend.
Akira: Stay safe, both of you!
Heathcliff: Yes! Ah... Sir Sage, I have a request!
Akira: What is it? I'll do anything you want!
(Woosh)
Heath spins around in the sky, and rushes back on his broom before my eyes.
I can’t believe he’s the same person as a moment ago; looking like a nervous young boy again, he tells me:
Heathcliff: Please don't go back to your world until I return.
I... I'll buy you a souvenir!
CHAPTER 1
Heathcliff: Sir Sage.
Akira: Heathcliff, have you gotten used to living in the magic headquarters?
Heathcliff: Ah... Actually, I wanted to consult you about this. I wanted to head back to Eastern Country....
Akira: Eh!? W-was living with everyone too stressful!? Heathcliff, you're a noble's son, after all—.
Heathcliff: Ah! No, that’s not it! They’re having a royal ceremony in the East, and I have to attend....
Akira: Ah, thank goodness. That's completely fine. Please take care.
Heathcliff: Yes, thank you.
Heathcliff smiles timidly. He's such a beautiful youth that it takes your breath away.
He looks fragile and melancholy; there’s a slight darkness about him, but his beauty never makes you feel gloomy.
He makes everyone around him feel gentle — the way you'd want to protect a delicate flower from a powerful breeze that will whisk away its petals.
Akira: So what is this ceremony in Eastern Country?
Heathcliff: It's to celebrate the king's birthday. Usually my father is the only one who attends, but this year, the king specifically requested my presence....
Option: Do you dislike ceremonies?
Heathcliff: Well, yes.... The ritual etiquette is very specific, and I’m always nervous about messing up.
But that’s not the only issue this time....
Akira: What is it...?
Option: It’s amazing that he requested your presence.
Akira: It’s amazing that he requested your presence. Does the king like you?
Heathcliff is a beautiful boy, so I'm sure many people love him.
But he laughs self-deprecatingly.
Heathcliff: Of course not. It's because I'm a wizard...
Heathcliff: ...He probably wants to ask about the battle with the
I don't really want to discuss it with him, since it's when many of the wizards I knew turned to stone, but....
(Footsteps)
Shino: I'll go with you.
Heathcliff: Shino....
CHAPTER 2
Shino: I'll protect you from all the talkative guys. Plus, if it’s a ceremony with the king, it'll be a good chance to sell my name.
Heathcliff: It's not the kind of event I can take you to. Plus, if two wizards go, the whole palace will be on guard.
Shino: So what? I'll protect you; that's my job. I’ll make sure nothing awful happens to you.
Heathcliff: ......I take back what I said. This ceremony isn’t a bother at all. When I'm with you, I can't even complain, Shino....
Shino: What!?
Heathcliff: Thanks for your concern. Sorry, but I can't bring you along. If something happens, Father is the one who will take the blame.
Shino: Did you just say I'll cause Master trouble!?
Heathcliff: That's not....
Akira: Shino, Shino! Calm down!
Shino: .....
Fine. Do as you please.
(Footsteps)
Akira: Ah...! Shino, wait...!
Heathcliff: It's fine, Sir Sage.
Akira: But....
Heathcliff: ...I don't want to see Shino mess up and disappoint himself at an event like that. This is for the better.
I'll be gone for the weekend, then. Thank you.
✦✧☾✧✦
Faust: I heard about Heath's trip back home. And he fought with Shino about it?
Akira: Yes... I was worried about them...
Faust: Hmph... They refused to talk to each other during class, too. These children are such a pain.
But I can see why Shino would be concerned. Half of our comrades turned to stone during that battle; among them was Heath's master.
Akira: His master....?
Faust: He approached the Master of Blanchett in hopes of making a fortune; that's how he wound up as Shino and Heath's teacher. He was a weak, irresponsible guy who didn't even know the basics.
Even so, I can see why Heath would be shocked by him turning into stone in front of his eyes. It's still fresh in his mind.
I don't want to send Heath into a crowd of people who will rip open his wounds. Can't you do something about it with your power as a Sage?
CHAPTER 3
Akira: What power do I even have...?
Faust: Who knows? I don't. The royal family watches Heath’s family closely in that country. They place a lot of pressure upon them.
Akira: I heard they were a powerful family of nobles. They don't get along with the king...?
Faust: It's because they're a powerful family. A noble who’s popular among the people is a threat to a king.
Cain: Plus, he's a Sage's wizard. They definitely don't want Heath to become a national hero.
Akira: Cain...
Cain: Sorry for jumping into your conversation. I heard you talking. Can you touch my hand?
Once Faust and I touch Cain’s hand, he continues speaking.
Cain: I was also bombarded with questions at Central. They praised me as a hero, but I couldn’t feel good about it at all.
I, too, failed to protect my comrades.... Even though I'm a knight.
The wind blows, and the sun is hidden behind the clouds. Faust and Cain’s faces are shrouded by darkness.
Their silence conveyed the horrors and the sadness of their last battle better than any words could.
I recall what Heathcliff told me the first time we met.
Mr. Faust... I would like you to save Mr. Faust.
...Please... please, save him.....
Those pained, earnest eyes that exclaimed, I don't want to lose anyone else....
Cain: ....Heath was more hurt than anyone else. That's why, Faust... he was desperate to save you.
Your life was saved because Heath begged so earnestly that Sir Sage was moved to come here.
Faust: .........
How about I stop the ceremony with a curse.
Cain: Or we can barge in and steal Heath away......
Akira: P-please wait. We need to go about this in a way that won't cause Heath more trouble later on....
Faust & Cain: .............
Akira: I’ll try speaking to Heathcliff. There are other things I need to ask him about anyway.
Faust: .....I see. I’m counting on you.
CHAPTER 4
(Knock knock) (Door opens)
Heathcliff: Sir Sage....
Akira: How is packing going? I was wondering if you'd like some tea. I brought some sweets with me.
Heathcliff: Thank you. I was just about to take a break. Please come on in.
Akira: Excuse me.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: So this is Heath's room....
Option: What is that blueprint for?
Heathcliff: It’s the blueprint for a watch. I make things like clockwork watches as a hobby.
Akira: I see! It’s amazing how you can make a watch on your own.
Heathcliff: No, not at all... this is really just a hobby.
Clocks are very intricate machinery; they have more than a hundred parts that you need to assemble properly, or else they’ll malfunction.
You also need to take care of them regularly to keep them working, and... Ah, I’m sorry. I was rambling.
Akira: No, it’s fascinating.
(Heath is this obsessed — he must really love watches....)
Option: There are lots of machines.
Akira: There are lots of machines. A typewriter, a phonograph....
Heathcliff: Yes... I like machines; they're intricate and delicately calculated, and function complexly.
They're like magic, but there's logic behind it all; if you take them apart, you can discover a precise answer....
If I weren't a noble's son or a wizard, I would've wanted to become a technician.
Option: Your desk is like a workshop.
Heathcliff: Ahaha... Well, I thought I might as well use it as I please while I’m away from my parents.
I like tinkering with machines. That’s why I admire Western Country with its advanced science and technology.
Akira: I see. I heard that Eastern Country is rich in nature, so I thought you would’ve felt the opposite way.
Heathcliff: Shylock said the same thing.
Shylock is a Western wizard, but he said he prefers nature to science and machinery.
Akira: Huh. Everyone feels differently, I see.
Heathcliff: Let me pour you some tea. Rutile gave me some delicious tea leaves.
(Clatter)
Akira: Thank you. Heath, I’m actually going about asking all the wizards about themselves.
So long as I record some information about you in the Sage’s manual, even if I suddenly have to go back to my world,....
I think you guys will be able to get along with the new Sage.
Heathcliff: ........
Akira: Heath?
Heathcliff: Ah... I'm sorry. That’s right.... Sir Sage, you're going to return to your world one day, aren't you.
I'm not confident I'll get along with the new Sage as much as I do with you, so.... it will make me sad....
Akira: (....Heath, you're so cute.....)
CHAPTER 5
Heathcliff: I'm sorry. I know you want to return to your world, Sir Sage. I shouldn't be saying this.
Akira: No no, it makes me happy. Anyway... can you tell me more about yourself, Heath?
Heathcliff: Yes. Um... I'm Heathcliff Blanchett. I was born in Eastern Country, and I’m 18 this year.
What else should I say....?
Akira: Could you tell me what you're good at, or what you dislike?
Heathcliff: I'm good at tinkering with machines, and engraving; anything that requires meticulous attention...? I also know basic royal etiquette.
I dislike... Dirty places or things. And scary stories. And bugs. And surprises, too.
Akira: I don’t like them very much either. I'm surprised you're good at tinkering with machines. I heard the West is more known for its machinery.
Heathcliff: Oh, I like the stuff that's less intense — like watches and trinkets you can make at a workshop. I actually kind of admire machines.
Akira: Really?
Heathcliff: Because if humans have machines, they can live convenient lives, the way wizards do.
I think that if everyone could live better lives, then maybe there would be less and less prejudice against wizards...
Akira: That's a good way of looking at it.
Heathcliff: But it's complicated. There are lots of problems surrounding the magic technology from Western Country that uses mana stones.
But one day... I hope this world will give rise to a culture where both humans and wizards can live in harmony.
Heath's gaze may be quiet, but it gleams with intellect and careful thought; it's productive, like a traveler waiting for the sun to rise.
He's not just "a shy, beautiful noble's son.” You can sense his broad perspective and quiet contemplation — the product of a sophisticated education.
(Heath doesn't clash with the short-tempered and ambitious Shino just because he's shy and introverted..... It's also because he sees the world the way an adult would.)
Heath’s watch appears out of thin air. It’s his magic tool.
Heathcliff: This is a pocket watch that my father gave me. I keep taking it apart, and putting it together.... The process soothes me.
Akira: Taking apart a watch seems like a lot of work... I wouldn't be able to put it back together.
Heathcliff: I was terrified at first too. But I really wanted to know how it worked, so... Now, I know it better than I know myself.
It's hard, figuring out what's going on inside your mind. My old master would always say, I don't know what you want to do.
Akira: Your master would?
CHAPTER 6
Heathcliff: He taught me and Shino magic. His name was Jack... He was supposed to be a famous wizard.
My father, who had learned that many wizards learn from others as master and pupil, asked him to take me and Shino on as his students when he dropped by the castle.
Akira: I see. And was he a powerful wizard?
Heathcliff: Well.... He wasn't.....
Akira: Eeh!?
(...Right, Faust mentioned this.)
Heathcliff: I later heard from Cain and Shylock...
That sometimes weak wizards take advantage of the fact that people don't understand wizards, and scam them.
They'd say they were famous wizards, and pretend they cursed you, or pretend they dispelled a curse, or sell you magical goods or talismans or books at ridiculous prices...
Akira: So in other words, you were scammed.
Heathcliff: .......Probably.....
Heath shakes his head in embarrassment.
Heath mentioned that his parents adore him; they probably had no intention of choosing a careless man as their beloved son's master just to soothe his loneliness.
But for humans, the world of wizards is so mysterious that they don't have enough information to gauge what's good and what's bad.
Akira: So, this Jack person...
Option: What is he doing now?
Akira: What is he doing now?
Heathcliff: ....
....He turned to stone during the last battle with the
Akira: Ah... right... he was one of the Eastern wizards....
I'm sorry for bringing it up....
Heathcliff: No.....
Option: What kind of person was he?
Akira: What kind of person was he?
Heathcliff: In front of my father, he was a confident, eloquent man, but with me and Shino....
He was irresponsible and vain, loved alcohol and women, always lied, and liked to brag....
Akira: (So he’s really not a good person at all....)
Heathcliff: Shino really hated him. I didn’t like him much either....
But.... I am grateful to him for some things. I am sad about what happened to him during our last battle with the < Great Catastrophe >....
Akira: So you were both chosen as Sage's wizards to fight the < Great Catastrophe > together, and came to the magic headquarters?
Heathcliff: ...Yes. When I met all the other wizards here.... I realized for the first time that master wasn't powerful at all.
Shylock told me it was better to ask Faust for instruction than to listen to him.
Mr. Faust seemed scary, so I was nervous at first, but...
He wasn't happy about it, but he taught me all sorts of things. Like the fact that my magic was stronger than master's....
Akira: I see....
And were Shino and your parents angry about how he scammed you into thinking he was a famous wizard...?
Heathcliff: I haven't told my parents; I don't want them to be bothered by it. Shino was angry for a different reason.
Akira: A different reason?
CHAPTER 7
Heathcliff: We were told by our master to make a promise: that we would protect each other no matter what.
Akira: A promise... But for wizards, that's....
Heathcliff: Yes. If you break your promise, you lose your magic.
Heath looks down sadly. The shadows of his long eyelashes fall upon his cheeks like the feathers of a bird. Even his moving shadows are beautiful.
Akira: Why did Jack force you to make a promise? You’d risk losing your magic....
Heathcliff: He said it was to make our bond stronger as fellow disciples. But the truth is...
It's part of the scam that weak wizards use when they've gathered multiple students.
Because if one of them discovers the truth about their master, and they all become infuriated, you only need to defeat one of them for everyone else to lose their power.
And the master can run away into safety and gather students again....
How horrible.
Heathcliff and Shino's friendship is absolutely real; but now it feels like it’s been tainted with this fraudulent trick. I feel frustrated.
Of course they want to protect each other. But before they could verbalize that of their own will, they were forced to sign a careless contract....
Akira: (Maybe this is one of the reasons they can't feel very confident about their friendship....)
....It must feel incredibly frustrating that you were forced to make a promise like that, but I'm glad it wasn't a bad promise.
Shino and Heath... you two are friends, so you'd naturally want to protect each other, right?
Heathcliff: But that's.... Now that we've made the promise, its meaning begins to change.....
He closes his mouth and falls silent.
He's blinking over and over again while fiddling with his fingers. He hasn't closed himself off; I feel like he's just trying his best to search for the right words.
Heathcliff: I....
If I had known there was a way for me to lose my magic, I wish I could've made a careless promise with someone else and broken that instead.
Because while magic might be useful, there are more people who hate wizards than those who appreciate them.....
If it’s going to cause my dear parents this much trouble, I wish I could've thrown it away. ...But this is a promise that I can't break.....
I could just make a promise with someone else, and break that, but. I know that Shino's face will come to mind, and it will stop me.
That's why I wish I didn’t know. ...That there's a way for me to quit being the person I hate.....
Akira: Heath....
I couldn't say anything. Because his inner turmoil must be deeper than anything I could imagine.
For him, being a wizard is something that taints the honor of his beloved parents—and it is also the very thing that binds him with his dearest friend.
The thorns of those relationships wrap themselves tightly around his chest and stop him in his tracks.
CHAPTER 8
Heath looks at me and laughs apologetically.
Heathcliff: I'm sorry, Sir Sage. I'm making you worry again.... The ceremony, too....
You dropped by to check in on me because of that, right? Mr. Faust and Cain.... And Shino treated me the same way.
But I'm all right. I'm used to people saying all sorts of things about me. Please don't worry.
My heart lurched with pain. Heath will definitely get hurt if he goes; they'll ask for every detail about the battle.
No one should become used to experiencing pain.
Option: I’m sorry I can’t be of any help.
Akira: I’m sorry I can’t be of any help....
Heathcliff: Sir Sage....
Akira: I had considered having you not attend, or speaking to your parents, but I’m sure you’ve weighed your options far better than I could....
So I feel like they’d be irresponsible suggestions... And in the end, I didn’t know what I could do either....
I don’t want you to go through anything sorrowful. But I can’t be of any help... I’m sorry....
Heath gazes at me, and then smiles happily.
Heathcliff: I’m happy... That you tried hard to think about me.
The fact that you understand my feelings — that alone saves me.
Option: Is there anything I can do?
Akira: Is there anything I can do....?
Heathcliff: Eh...?
Akira: Um... like, I wonder if I can stop the ceremony with my power, or...
Heathcliff: S... Sir Sage, do you have any power...?
Akira: I don't know......
But if going to the ceremony will make you hate yourself, or make you hate humans, I don't want you to go, Heath.....
Heath blinks in surprise, and then softly laughs.
It was such a beautiful smile.
Heathcliff: Thank you, Sir Sage. Those words alone are enough.
Heathcliff: I will be all right. Just as you have written down so much about us in the Sage’s manual, for our sakes....
I will tell everyone about how our comrades during the last battle were amazing wizards.
CHAPTER 9
Akira: Sighs... In the end, I couldn't be of any help to Heath.
(Footsteps)
Shino: Sage.
Akira: Shino... Have you made up with Heath yet?
Shino: Not yet. I will before he goes.
Akira: Please do. Heath is probably feeling lonely too....
Shino: Lonely? That's not fair. He's always the one who's leaving me behind. He won't rely on me.
Akira: ......
Shino: Heath won't boast about it, but he's intelligent and beautiful. He's a well-known noble within the country too.
He was perfect at absolutely everything so that no one would complain about the fact that he was a wizard.
I can't forgive anyone who laughs at him. Don't stop me, Sage. I'm definitely going with him.
Akira: ....I understand. I'll try to convince Heath to take you along before he leaves, Shino.
The day of Heath’s return to Eastern Country has arrived.
Shino and I were ready to convince him. To protect the gentle, frail Heath.
But it turns out that Heath was far stronger than we imagined.
Because the Heath who appears before us has tucked away his frailty. He has the face of a flawless noble, with perfect mannerisms and a refined smile.
Heathcliff: I'll be off, Sir Sage.
Akira: Ah...
CHAPTER 10
I’m overwhelmed by Heath's gracious smile.
Heath then looks to Shino, who is standing by me.
Heathcliff: Shino. Can you vow not to taint Father's and the Blanchett family's name?
Shino nods with a powerful gaze.
Shino: ...I do.
Heath gently narrows his eyes and smiles.
Heathcliff: Then come with me. I need you.
Shino's joy in that moment cannot be described in words.
(Woosh)
Heath takes his broom and flies into the blue sky.
I wave at the two of them, watching them as they ascend.
Akira: Stay safe, both of you!
Heathcliff: Yes! Ah... Sir Sage, I have a request!
Akira: What is it? I'll do anything you want!
(Woosh)
Heath spins around in the sky, and rushes back on his broom before my eyes.
I can’t believe he’s the same person as a moment ago; looking like a nervous young boy again, he tells me:
Heathcliff: Please don't go back to your world until I return.
I... I'll buy you a souvenir!
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I feel like I understood Heath deeper through this interaction. He's a really sweets and thoughtful boy.
Thank you so much for the translation.