healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-05-19 11:51 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-05-19 11:51 pm
Entry tags:
Cain | The Future He Vowed to Protect
MahoYaku Masterpost
Thank you to K for the following translation!
CHAPTER 1
Today, I’ll write down information about Cain in the sage’s book. So that even if I suddenly return to my world, the new sage will still be familiar with everyone.
I wonder where Cain is now?
✦✧☾✧✦
Riquet: Sage. If you’re looking for Cain, he’s been out since this morning.
Akira: Really? He said he didn’t have any plans for battle or any reason to go to the castle, though.
Cain: I’m back.
Riquet: Ah. Welcome back.
Cain: Oh, Riquet, you’re here.
Akira: I’m here too. Welcome back.
Cain stands at the door with a smile, holding up one hand. Riquet and I walk towards him, giving him a high five.
Cain is unable to see other people until he touches them. As our fingertips touch, Cain meets our eyes, and smiles once again.
Cain: I’m back, Akira. Has everything been all right today?
Akira: Yes. Did you go somewhere?
Cain: I went to the Eastern country. Here, souvenirs. These are toasted almonds that Heath told me about. I bought a few kinds.
Riquet: Wow! It smells like cherries. These ones smell of cinnamon!
Cain: Please share them with everyone. But don’t stuff yourselves too full before dinner.
Riquet: Thank you, Cain! I’ll go get Mitile and the others!
Cain: Ha ha, off he goes. Riquet is happy with any kind of sweets, so it makes you want to spoil him.
Akira: You’re right.
Cain, can I have some of your time before dinner? I’d like to ask you all sorts of questions.
Cain: Of course. Then should we go to my room? ......Ah. It might be a mess though.
Just give me a bit. I’ll quickly straighten it up. Can you walk to my room slowly?
>Option:
Akira: Got it. Sorry for making you go through the trouble.
Cain: Nah, not at all. It’s just me wanting to impress you. Sorry to make you wait.
>Option:
Akira: I really don’t mind.
Cain: I mind. Even if it’s just a little, I want to show you my good side.
Besides, wouldn’t you feel more at ease in a clean room?
>Option:
Akira: Maybe I’ll just take a quick peek?
Cain: Ahaha, please spare me. Let me show off.
Akira: Well then, I’ll make tea and bring it along. You just went on a trip so you must be thirsty, right?
Cain: Thank you. All right, see you soon.
CHAPTER 2
Briskly stepping forward, Cain collides with Shylock, who was about to enter the dining hall.
(Sound of collision)
Cain: Woah.....Sorry, did I run into you?
Shylock: Not at all, don’t worry. Where are you going in such a hurry?
Cain: I’m inviting Sage to my room. So there’s no way I can let him see a messy room.
Shylock laughs teasingly at Cain’s rushed explanation.
Shylock: That’s true. You’ll have to hide the jackets you have lying around.
Cain: How did you know that? Oh, I left souvenirs right here. Please take some. I think they’ll be to your taste.
Smiling wryly, Cain points at the table of the dining hall with a fidgety motion.
Shylock nods, smiling wryly in return.
Shylock: Thank you. Well, have a good time.
Cain is a friendly and amiable wizard. He is also the former leader of the knights of Central Country.
Cain is bright, straightforward, and reliable; the young wizards look up to him as they would an older brother, and the older wizards treat him affectionately as they would a son.
From the first time I met Cain, I’ve liked him. Being with Cain is fun; he puts you at ease.
I’d like to know more about the person he is.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: So this is your room......
Cain: I managed to clean it up, somehow. Don’t look beyond this point, okay. I just rammed things away hurriedly.
Akira: Ha ha, I see. But it’s tidy enough. It doesn’t look like a mess at all.
Cain: I used magic to forcefully round everything up.
Akira: That’s so convenient...... ! How nice.....
CHAPTER 3
Cain: I used magic to forcefully round everything up.
Akira: That’s so convenient...... ! How nice.....
Cain: I’d probably be scolded by guys like Heathcliff and Faust. The Eastern wizards are very tidy after all.
Listening to Cain, I laugh and look around the room.
>Option:
Akira: That’s a wonderful sofa.
Cain: This is where I kick back and relax. Reading books, tending to my sword and armour, and so on.
I often end up dozing off and falling asleep for real though.
>Option:
Akira: That’s a wonderful desk.
Cain: It has a lot of drawers, which is great. I went all out and bought it for my new living quarters. It’s first-class furniture from Blanchett in the Eastern Country.
Akira: Blanchett......
Cain: Yeah. I had Heath get it for me for cheap.
>Option :
Akira: That’s a wonderful rug.
Cain: Isn’t it a nice find? I helped the owner of a rug shop in Central Country, and got this as a thank you.
I can take afternoon naps on it, and do light training. Do you want to train with me? Ab exercises, for example......
Akira: I...I think I’m good for now.
Cain: When I was still part of the troops, it was like living with a large family of all guys. Try as I might, I still can’t shake my habits from back then.
Akira: The knights’ living quarters sound lively.
Cain: Yeah. No one ever locked their doors, see. Someone would come calling for you sooner or later anyway. "Let’s play cards," or "let’s head out."
Akira: It’d be nice if the magic headquarters could be like that.
Cain: I’m sure it’ll get there, definitely. Oz used to be unsociable—now he’ll come along as long as we bait him with Arthur
Recently, we Central wizards went to a restaurant in the royal capital where I’m a regular. Arthur went in disguise. It was really fun.
You should come along next time. You’d like this light blue fruit-infused drink that Riquet got extra servings of.
Akira: Yes, please!
Cain always talks about his friends in such an amiable manner. For a while, we’re caught up in conversation.
CHAPTER 4
I talk about myself, and listen to Cain’s stories in return.
Cain listens attentively, so it’s fun falling into a long conversation with him; time passes just like that.
Cain: Ahaha! That’s amazing! ......Uh-oh, sorry. That was so fun, I went off topic.
Akira: I got caught up as well......It’s about time we move on to the main subject then.
Cain: Right. You wanted to ask about me?
Akira: Yes. I don’t know when I might return to my world, so I thought I’d write down information about everyone in the sage’s book.
That way, even if I’m not here anymore, you and everyone else might get along with the new sage more easily. So, can I ask you all sorts of questions?
I thought Cain would nod and agree with a smile. However, he furrows his brow together slightly.
Cain: I don’t mind talking.....But saying that you want to know more about me for when we part—don’t say something so lonely.
After all, we’ve just met. I want to talk to you in order to become friends. Like we were doing just now.
These words, straightforward like Cain himself, warm my heart.
Akira: You’re right. Please let me ask more about you, so that we can become better friends.
Cain: Of course.
Cain laughs, pleased.
Akira: Well then, for a start, could you give me a simple self-introduction?
Cain: Cain Knightley. I’m 22 years old. I consider myself a grown man, but Oz says I’m practically an infant.
Akira: Ahaha. Oz has lived for an extremely long time after all.
Cain: I was born in the Town of Glory in Central Country. The Town of Glory is a lively town right along the canal. I trained my sword skills there, and ended up being called to Central City.
I’d hidden the fact that I was a wizard. My mom had told me over and over since I was young: "You absolutely should not use your magic outside."
"We won’t be able to live here anymore, and you’ll lose all your friends."
CHAPTER 5
Cain: I’d hidden the fact that I was a wizard. My mom had told me over and over since I was young: "You absolutely should not use your magic outside."
"We won’t be able to live here anymore, and you’ll lose all your friends."
Cain continues smiling, but I feel strange, realizing how difficult life must be for wizards.
>Option:
Akira: What was your mother like?
Cain: Bold, and lively. She yelled at me often and loudly. "Cain! You used magic again, didn’t you!?"
Akira: Ahaha!
Cain: Similarly, my father was a cheerful and open-hearted man who didn’t think too deeply into things, so they were beloved by the townspeople.
They’re doing well back in their hometown even now.
>Option:
Akira: What were your friends like?
Cain: I’d say they were my partners in crime. Kinda like a bunch of brats who stayed the same all the way into adulthood.
We trained with swords together, rode on boats, gained a taste for alcohol, got excited over silly things.
Akira: How nice. They sound like good friends.
Cain: Yeah. The fact that I was a wizard— they probably already knew. They’ve just kept quiet for my sake all this time.
Cain: Of course, my mom’s warnings came from concern for my future, but I still rebelled to some extent.
I didn’t like keeping secrets; it felt cowardly. But I didn’t want to cause trouble for my family. So I kept quiet, joined the knights, and became leader of the knights......
When my secret came out, I was—relieved. Ah, this way, I don’t have to hide anything from my comrades anymore.
Akira: I see......How did everyone find out that you were a wizard?
Cain’s expression turns slightly bitter.
Cain: It was Owen. He appeared in front of us—in front of the knights.
We were deceived by his magic and attacked, and my comrades dropped like flies. I was desperately trying to bring him down.
Until then, I had never met an opponent I couldn’t cut down with my own sword. ....However, it was completely useless against Owen.
Just as I thought I was going to be killed, Owen said this.
"How long do you plan on keeping it a secret. You’re a wizard, aren’t you."
CHAPTER 6
Cain: Just as I thought I was going to be killed, Owen said this.
"How long do you plan on keeping it a secret. You’re a wizard, aren’t you."
Akira: ......And......Did you use magic?
Cain: Yeah......But I had never properly trained in magic; my skills were no more than mere show. I was no match for Owen at all.
Cain: I managed to let my men get away somehow......But then Owen beat me to the verge of death, and took one of my eyeballs.
I’m struck speechless; it was an even more intense incident than I had imagined.
Of course Cain would hate Owen. And yet Cain’s fury and enmity are neither damp nor smouldering.
It’s like he’s saying, honestly, what a pain, as he runs his hands through his hair.
Cain: But that Owen is now our comrade. There’s more than 100 things I dislike about him, but there’s no point in complaining.
I’m taken aback by his positive attitude.
Akira: ......You’re fine with that? He nearly killed you, and even stole away your eyeball.
Cain: There’s no way I’m fine with it. I will absolutely take it back one day. For that purpose, I have to become much, much stronger.
I’ve just started magical training. It’s fun to receive instruction from the older wizards, and to work hard together with the young wizards.
Cain laughs refreshingly. It seems that it’s not in his character to complain at length.
Rather than continuing to hate someone, he chooses to walk straight down the path he has found for himself. That is Cain’s way of life.
I feel like I understand the reason for Owen’s meddling.
Owen uses his malice to make others uneasy. But Cain has never been swayed by malice nor unease.
On the surface, the loss lies with Cain who had his eyeball stolen. However, it might have been Owen instead who nursed a sense of defeat.
Akira: (Wizards sure are interesting......)
Cain: What else? Is there anything that you wanted to know?
CHAPTER 7
Akira: Can you tell me what you’re good at, or things you dislike?
Cain: My special talent is my sword skills, but I’m good at anything that involves moving my body. I guess I’m also good at getting along with people?
I’m bad at stiff and formal occasions, and......this is embarrassing to say, but......
Cain mumbles, which is unusual. He averts his gaze, while stroking his chin.
It might be terrible of me, but I get slightly excited about this timid side to Cain.
Akira: Don’t worry. You can tell me anything.
Cain steals a glance at me, and mumbles quietly.
Cain: ......I’m bad with snakes.
Akira: Snakes?
Cain: Yeah......I can’t stand that slithery feeling......I’d be fine if only they were as big as demons.
Akira: That’s surprising......
Cain: It’s uncool, right......Normally I’d hold it in, but recently, I had one appear out of nowhere.
While I stood rooted to the spot, Arthur just reached out to grab it with an unconcerned face.
How pathetic, when my job is to protect my lord from danger.
Akira: It’s kind of cute that you have a weakness, Cain. Was there an incident that caused it?
Cain: I don’t remember it, but I heard this from my mom — when I was a kid, I once fell into a nest of snakes.
Akira: A nest of snakes.....was it swarming with them?
Cain: Swarming.....ugh, my skin crawled......
Cain turns ashen, rubbing both of his arms. This is so unlike how Cain normally acts that I have to hold myself back from laughing unthinkingly.
Cain: Hey, you laughed, didn’t you. Are you fine with snakes then?
>Option: I’m fine with them.
Cain: Is that so....How reliable....Can I rely on you if the time ever comes?
Akira: Leave it to me.
>Option: I might not be....
Cain: Hey. Well, the next time we come across a snake, let’s grab each other's hands and run away.
Akira: Got it. Let’s speed away.
We joke and laugh together.
Akira: Moving on from snakes.....Could you show me your magical object?
CHAPTER 8
Akira: Moving on from snakes.....Could you show me your magical object?
Cain: Of course. Here is it.
In a graceful motion, Cain draws out the sword he wears at his hip.
The long sword gives off a silver glint.
Akira: Wow, it’s amazing......I was overwhelmed the first time I saw it. It’s so intimidating....
Cain: That’s great to hear. Want to try holding it?
Akira: Can I?
Cain: Yeah. Be careful. The edge is sharper than it looks.
I grip the sword with excitement. The weight of it travels up my arms.
Akira: (So this is a sword......! How cool.....!)
Cain: Haha. It’s cool, isn’t it.
Akira: Yes! Knights like you, who can handle such an impressive sword, are so admirable......
Our eyes meet, and we smile at each other.
Cain: This is the sword that the king bestowed on me when I was appointed leader of the knights. The crest of the royal family is inscribed here.
I’ve been stripped of my post as the leader of the knights, but they didn’t take this sword away from me. It is my honor, and a treasure more important than my life.
No matter what happens, I will remain a knight who is worthy of this sword—that was what I vowed.
Akira: That’s incredible, and so very like you, Cain. Thank you for showing it to me!
Cain: Likewise. My sword is pleased to be praised by Sage as well.
Once again, Cain returns his sword to its scabbard by his hip.
Looking outside the window, I realize it’s already grown dark.
Cain: It’s almost time for dinner. Are we done with questions?
Akira: Yes. I’m glad to have heard so much. Thank you!
Cain: No, thank you, I had a great time. You should come and hang out again.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: It was fun getting to talk to Cain so much yesterday.
Hmm...? Did he go out again today?
Owen: If you’re looking for Cain, he went to Southern Country.
Akira: Ah....!! You surprised me.....!!
I leap up in surprise with a hand clutched to my heart, as Owen appears behind me without warning.
Owen grins with eyes that are the same colours as Cain’s.
CHAPTER 9
Owen grins with eyes that are the same colours as Cain’s.
Owen: He went to Eastern Country yesterday. Before that it was Western Country. And Central Country before that. Do you know why?
Cain: His knightly duties?
Owen: Memorials for the dead.
The wind quietly blows through, swaying the leaves on the trees.
Owen narrows his lovely eyes, and his lips curve upwards.
Owen: You see, ten of our comrades turned into stone. It’s taken a toll on our kind Sir Knight. He blames himself for not being able to protect them.
Because a knight who can’t protect his comrades is worthless.
I think of Cain’s kind smile, with a lump in my throat.
It’s so obvious once I think about it. Cain, who cares so much for his friends—there’s no way that he is unaffected by the loss of his comrades.
But he never said anything. He merely smiled, and listened to me.
Owen: If you ask me, that’s just idiotic. It’s enough as long as I survive. The weaker someone is, the harder they try to protect other people.
In the last battle, all of the Northern wizards survived, and the Southern wizards were wiped out.
That’s how it is. The ones who try to protect others will be the first to die. In the next battle, Cain will be the first to turn into stone.
That’s Cain’s pride. Interesting, right?
Akira: ....What do you mean, interesting? There is nothing interesting about it.
Owen: Why do you say that? Is it because the person he’ll want to protect the most, will be you?
Akira: ......
Owen: Cain went to offer flower bouquets. Next year, will it be you offering bouquets for Cain?
I glare at Owen, close to trembling from his words.
Akira: I won’t let Cain die. I won’t let you die either.
I’ll protect everyone. I’ll show you that I can win against the moon.
Owen’s eyes widen; after a few seconds, he bursts out laughing.
A silvery moon hangs in the midafternoon sky.
Owen: Ahaha! Winning against the Great Catastrophe, you say! Even though it’s all we can do to keep it at bay.
Oh well. How interesting. Before the wind scatters the petals, you should choose flowers for next year.
Think about which color — and which flower — will suit each person.
Saying that, Owen vanishes.
CHAPTER 10
Cain: I’m back......Hmm? I feel someone’s presence here.
Walking in the sunset courtyard, Cain casts his gaze around him.
I stay silent, and turn around to look at him. He raises one hand, the other holding all sorts of souvenirs from Southern Country.
Cain: If anyone’s there, please touch me. Until you do so, I won’t be able to see you.
If you don’t reply, I might take you for a suspicious person and attack. Here. Please say something.
Cain’s gaze passes right through my face. Gradually, vigilance creeps into his eyes of different colours.
Cain: Hey......
(Sound of a light clap)
I stand in front of him.
And give him a high five, like I always do.
Meeting my eyes, Cain slowly changes his expression, a happy, teasing smile breaking across his face.
Cain: Akira, you tried to scare me.
I can’t say anything, in the blaze of his dazzling smile.
Akira: Ahaha. I wasn’t trying to. Welcome back, Cain.
Cain: I’m home. Here are souvenirs from the South. They’re dried corn seeds, and if you fry them apparently they’ll become snacks.
Akira: It’s popcorn! Popcorn is really delicious!
Cain: Ahaha! So you like it, Akira? That’s great.
Laughing side by side with Cain, I think about the moon in the night sky, soon to appear in a gleam of gold.
I can’t help but to wish.
For the injuries caused by the Great Catastrophe to vanish, and for Cain’s eyesight to return to normal.
For everyone to be safe when the Great Catastrophe next attacks.
For my kind friend standing by my side to not turn to stone trying to protect me.
The evening breeze scatters the flower petals.
As if forcefully declaring to the moon that there won’t be any need for memorial flowers.
Thank you to K for the following translation!
CHAPTER 1
Today, I’ll write down information about Cain in the sage’s book. So that even if I suddenly return to my world, the new sage will still be familiar with everyone.
I wonder where Cain is now?
✦✧☾✧✦
Riquet: Sage. If you’re looking for Cain, he’s been out since this morning.
Akira: Really? He said he didn’t have any plans for battle or any reason to go to the castle, though.
Cain: I’m back.
Riquet: Ah. Welcome back.
Cain: Oh, Riquet, you’re here.
Akira: I’m here too. Welcome back.
Cain stands at the door with a smile, holding up one hand. Riquet and I walk towards him, giving him a high five.
Cain is unable to see other people until he touches them. As our fingertips touch, Cain meets our eyes, and smiles once again.
Cain: I’m back, Akira. Has everything been all right today?
Akira: Yes. Did you go somewhere?
Cain: I went to the Eastern country. Here, souvenirs. These are toasted almonds that Heath told me about. I bought a few kinds.
Riquet: Wow! It smells like cherries. These ones smell of cinnamon!
Cain: Please share them with everyone. But don’t stuff yourselves too full before dinner.
Riquet: Thank you, Cain! I’ll go get Mitile and the others!
Cain: Ha ha, off he goes. Riquet is happy with any kind of sweets, so it makes you want to spoil him.
Akira: You’re right.
Cain, can I have some of your time before dinner? I’d like to ask you all sorts of questions.
Cain: Of course. Then should we go to my room? ......Ah. It might be a mess though.
Just give me a bit. I’ll quickly straighten it up. Can you walk to my room slowly?
>Option:
Akira: Got it. Sorry for making you go through the trouble.
Cain: Nah, not at all. It’s just me wanting to impress you. Sorry to make you wait.
>Option:
Akira: I really don’t mind.
Cain: I mind. Even if it’s just a little, I want to show you my good side.
Besides, wouldn’t you feel more at ease in a clean room?
>Option:
Akira: Maybe I’ll just take a quick peek?
Cain: Ahaha, please spare me. Let me show off.
Akira: Well then, I’ll make tea and bring it along. You just went on a trip so you must be thirsty, right?
Cain: Thank you. All right, see you soon.
CHAPTER 2
Briskly stepping forward, Cain collides with Shylock, who was about to enter the dining hall.
(Sound of collision)
Cain: Woah.....Sorry, did I run into you?
Shylock: Not at all, don’t worry. Where are you going in such a hurry?
Cain: I’m inviting Sage to my room. So there’s no way I can let him see a messy room.
Shylock laughs teasingly at Cain’s rushed explanation.
Shylock: That’s true. You’ll have to hide the jackets you have lying around.
Cain: How did you know that? Oh, I left souvenirs right here. Please take some. I think they’ll be to your taste.
Smiling wryly, Cain points at the table of the dining hall with a fidgety motion.
Shylock nods, smiling wryly in return.
Shylock: Thank you. Well, have a good time.
Cain is a friendly and amiable wizard. He is also the former leader of the knights of Central Country.
Cain is bright, straightforward, and reliable; the young wizards look up to him as they would an older brother, and the older wizards treat him affectionately as they would a son.
From the first time I met Cain, I’ve liked him. Being with Cain is fun; he puts you at ease.
I’d like to know more about the person he is.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: So this is your room......
Cain: I managed to clean it up, somehow. Don’t look beyond this point, okay. I just rammed things away hurriedly.
Akira: Ha ha, I see. But it’s tidy enough. It doesn’t look like a mess at all.
Cain: I used magic to forcefully round everything up.
Akira: That’s so convenient...... ! How nice.....
CHAPTER 3
Cain: I used magic to forcefully round everything up.
Akira: That’s so convenient...... ! How nice.....
Cain: I’d probably be scolded by guys like Heathcliff and Faust. The Eastern wizards are very tidy after all.
Listening to Cain, I laugh and look around the room.
>Option:
Akira: That’s a wonderful sofa.
Cain: This is where I kick back and relax. Reading books, tending to my sword and armour, and so on.
I often end up dozing off and falling asleep for real though.
>Option:
Akira: That’s a wonderful desk.
Cain: It has a lot of drawers, which is great. I went all out and bought it for my new living quarters. It’s first-class furniture from Blanchett in the Eastern Country.
Akira: Blanchett......
Cain: Yeah. I had Heath get it for me for cheap.
>Option :
Akira: That’s a wonderful rug.
Cain: Isn’t it a nice find? I helped the owner of a rug shop in Central Country, and got this as a thank you.
I can take afternoon naps on it, and do light training. Do you want to train with me? Ab exercises, for example......
Akira: I...I think I’m good for now.
Cain: When I was still part of the troops, it was like living with a large family of all guys. Try as I might, I still can’t shake my habits from back then.
Akira: The knights’ living quarters sound lively.
Cain: Yeah. No one ever locked their doors, see. Someone would come calling for you sooner or later anyway. "Let’s play cards," or "let’s head out."
Akira: It’d be nice if the magic headquarters could be like that.
Cain: I’m sure it’ll get there, definitely. Oz used to be unsociable—now he’ll come along as long as we bait him with Arthur
Recently, we Central wizards went to a restaurant in the royal capital where I’m a regular. Arthur went in disguise. It was really fun.
You should come along next time. You’d like this light blue fruit-infused drink that Riquet got extra servings of.
Akira: Yes, please!
Cain always talks about his friends in such an amiable manner. For a while, we’re caught up in conversation.
CHAPTER 4
I talk about myself, and listen to Cain’s stories in return.
Cain listens attentively, so it’s fun falling into a long conversation with him; time passes just like that.
Cain: Ahaha! That’s amazing! ......Uh-oh, sorry. That was so fun, I went off topic.
Akira: I got caught up as well......It’s about time we move on to the main subject then.
Cain: Right. You wanted to ask about me?
Akira: Yes. I don’t know when I might return to my world, so I thought I’d write down information about everyone in the sage’s book.
That way, even if I’m not here anymore, you and everyone else might get along with the new sage more easily. So, can I ask you all sorts of questions?
I thought Cain would nod and agree with a smile. However, he furrows his brow together slightly.
Cain: I don’t mind talking.....But saying that you want to know more about me for when we part—don’t say something so lonely.
After all, we’ve just met. I want to talk to you in order to become friends. Like we were doing just now.
These words, straightforward like Cain himself, warm my heart.
Akira: You’re right. Please let me ask more about you, so that we can become better friends.
Cain: Of course.
Cain laughs, pleased.
Akira: Well then, for a start, could you give me a simple self-introduction?
Cain: Cain Knightley. I’m 22 years old. I consider myself a grown man, but Oz says I’m practically an infant.
Akira: Ahaha. Oz has lived for an extremely long time after all.
Cain: I was born in the Town of Glory in Central Country. The Town of Glory is a lively town right along the canal. I trained my sword skills there, and ended up being called to Central City.
I’d hidden the fact that I was a wizard. My mom had told me over and over since I was young: "You absolutely should not use your magic outside."
"We won’t be able to live here anymore, and you’ll lose all your friends."
CHAPTER 5
Cain: I’d hidden the fact that I was a wizard. My mom had told me over and over since I was young: "You absolutely should not use your magic outside."
"We won’t be able to live here anymore, and you’ll lose all your friends."
Cain continues smiling, but I feel strange, realizing how difficult life must be for wizards.
>Option:
Akira: What was your mother like?
Cain: Bold, and lively. She yelled at me often and loudly. "Cain! You used magic again, didn’t you!?"
Akira: Ahaha!
Cain: Similarly, my father was a cheerful and open-hearted man who didn’t think too deeply into things, so they were beloved by the townspeople.
They’re doing well back in their hometown even now.
>Option:
Akira: What were your friends like?
Cain: I’d say they were my partners in crime. Kinda like a bunch of brats who stayed the same all the way into adulthood.
We trained with swords together, rode on boats, gained a taste for alcohol, got excited over silly things.
Akira: How nice. They sound like good friends.
Cain: Yeah. The fact that I was a wizard— they probably already knew. They’ve just kept quiet for my sake all this time.
Cain: Of course, my mom’s warnings came from concern for my future, but I still rebelled to some extent.
I didn’t like keeping secrets; it felt cowardly. But I didn’t want to cause trouble for my family. So I kept quiet, joined the knights, and became leader of the knights......
When my secret came out, I was—relieved. Ah, this way, I don’t have to hide anything from my comrades anymore.
Akira: I see......How did everyone find out that you were a wizard?
Cain’s expression turns slightly bitter.
Cain: It was Owen. He appeared in front of us—in front of the knights.
We were deceived by his magic and attacked, and my comrades dropped like flies. I was desperately trying to bring him down.
Until then, I had never met an opponent I couldn’t cut down with my own sword. ....However, it was completely useless against Owen.
Just as I thought I was going to be killed, Owen said this.
"How long do you plan on keeping it a secret. You’re a wizard, aren’t you."
CHAPTER 6
Cain: Just as I thought I was going to be killed, Owen said this.
"How long do you plan on keeping it a secret. You’re a wizard, aren’t you."
Akira: ......And......Did you use magic?
Cain: Yeah......But I had never properly trained in magic; my skills were no more than mere show. I was no match for Owen at all.
Cain: I managed to let my men get away somehow......But then Owen beat me to the verge of death, and took one of my eyeballs.
I’m struck speechless; it was an even more intense incident than I had imagined.
Of course Cain would hate Owen. And yet Cain’s fury and enmity are neither damp nor smouldering.
It’s like he’s saying, honestly, what a pain, as he runs his hands through his hair.
Cain: But that Owen is now our comrade. There’s more than 100 things I dislike about him, but there’s no point in complaining.
I’m taken aback by his positive attitude.
Akira: ......You’re fine with that? He nearly killed you, and even stole away your eyeball.
Cain: There’s no way I’m fine with it. I will absolutely take it back one day. For that purpose, I have to become much, much stronger.
I’ve just started magical training. It’s fun to receive instruction from the older wizards, and to work hard together with the young wizards.
Cain laughs refreshingly. It seems that it’s not in his character to complain at length.
Rather than continuing to hate someone, he chooses to walk straight down the path he has found for himself. That is Cain’s way of life.
I feel like I understand the reason for Owen’s meddling.
Owen uses his malice to make others uneasy. But Cain has never been swayed by malice nor unease.
On the surface, the loss lies with Cain who had his eyeball stolen. However, it might have been Owen instead who nursed a sense of defeat.
Akira: (Wizards sure are interesting......)
Cain: What else? Is there anything that you wanted to know?
CHAPTER 7
Akira: Can you tell me what you’re good at, or things you dislike?
Cain: My special talent is my sword skills, but I’m good at anything that involves moving my body. I guess I’m also good at getting along with people?
I’m bad at stiff and formal occasions, and......this is embarrassing to say, but......
Cain mumbles, which is unusual. He averts his gaze, while stroking his chin.
It might be terrible of me, but I get slightly excited about this timid side to Cain.
Akira: Don’t worry. You can tell me anything.
Cain steals a glance at me, and mumbles quietly.
Cain: ......I’m bad with snakes.
Akira: Snakes?
Cain: Yeah......I can’t stand that slithery feeling......I’d be fine if only they were as big as demons.
Akira: That’s surprising......
Cain: It’s uncool, right......Normally I’d hold it in, but recently, I had one appear out of nowhere.
While I stood rooted to the spot, Arthur just reached out to grab it with an unconcerned face.
How pathetic, when my job is to protect my lord from danger.
Akira: It’s kind of cute that you have a weakness, Cain. Was there an incident that caused it?
Cain: I don’t remember it, but I heard this from my mom — when I was a kid, I once fell into a nest of snakes.
Akira: A nest of snakes.....was it swarming with them?
Cain: Swarming.....ugh, my skin crawled......
Cain turns ashen, rubbing both of his arms. This is so unlike how Cain normally acts that I have to hold myself back from laughing unthinkingly.
Cain: Hey, you laughed, didn’t you. Are you fine with snakes then?
>Option: I’m fine with them.
Cain: Is that so....How reliable....Can I rely on you if the time ever comes?
Akira: Leave it to me.
>Option: I might not be....
Cain: Hey. Well, the next time we come across a snake, let’s grab each other's hands and run away.
Akira: Got it. Let’s speed away.
We joke and laugh together.
Akira: Moving on from snakes.....Could you show me your magical object?
CHAPTER 8
Akira: Moving on from snakes.....Could you show me your magical object?
Cain: Of course. Here is it.
In a graceful motion, Cain draws out the sword he wears at his hip.
The long sword gives off a silver glint.
Akira: Wow, it’s amazing......I was overwhelmed the first time I saw it. It’s so intimidating....
Cain: That’s great to hear. Want to try holding it?
Akira: Can I?
Cain: Yeah. Be careful. The edge is sharper than it looks.
I grip the sword with excitement. The weight of it travels up my arms.
Akira: (So this is a sword......! How cool.....!)
Cain: Haha. It’s cool, isn’t it.
Akira: Yes! Knights like you, who can handle such an impressive sword, are so admirable......
Our eyes meet, and we smile at each other.
Cain: This is the sword that the king bestowed on me when I was appointed leader of the knights. The crest of the royal family is inscribed here.
I’ve been stripped of my post as the leader of the knights, but they didn’t take this sword away from me. It is my honor, and a treasure more important than my life.
No matter what happens, I will remain a knight who is worthy of this sword—that was what I vowed.
Akira: That’s incredible, and so very like you, Cain. Thank you for showing it to me!
Cain: Likewise. My sword is pleased to be praised by Sage as well.
Once again, Cain returns his sword to its scabbard by his hip.
Looking outside the window, I realize it’s already grown dark.
Cain: It’s almost time for dinner. Are we done with questions?
Akira: Yes. I’m glad to have heard so much. Thank you!
Cain: No, thank you, I had a great time. You should come and hang out again.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: It was fun getting to talk to Cain so much yesterday.
Hmm...? Did he go out again today?
Owen: If you’re looking for Cain, he went to Southern Country.
Akira: Ah....!! You surprised me.....!!
I leap up in surprise with a hand clutched to my heart, as Owen appears behind me without warning.
Owen grins with eyes that are the same colours as Cain’s.
CHAPTER 9
Owen grins with eyes that are the same colours as Cain’s.
Owen: He went to Eastern Country yesterday. Before that it was Western Country. And Central Country before that. Do you know why?
Cain: His knightly duties?
Owen: Memorials for the dead.
The wind quietly blows through, swaying the leaves on the trees.
Owen narrows his lovely eyes, and his lips curve upwards.
Owen: You see, ten of our comrades turned into stone. It’s taken a toll on our kind Sir Knight. He blames himself for not being able to protect them.
Because a knight who can’t protect his comrades is worthless.
I think of Cain’s kind smile, with a lump in my throat.
It’s so obvious once I think about it. Cain, who cares so much for his friends—there’s no way that he is unaffected by the loss of his comrades.
But he never said anything. He merely smiled, and listened to me.
Owen: If you ask me, that’s just idiotic. It’s enough as long as I survive. The weaker someone is, the harder they try to protect other people.
In the last battle, all of the Northern wizards survived, and the Southern wizards were wiped out.
That’s how it is. The ones who try to protect others will be the first to die. In the next battle, Cain will be the first to turn into stone.
That’s Cain’s pride. Interesting, right?
Akira: ....What do you mean, interesting? There is nothing interesting about it.
Owen: Why do you say that? Is it because the person he’ll want to protect the most, will be you?
Akira: ......
Owen: Cain went to offer flower bouquets. Next year, will it be you offering bouquets for Cain?
I glare at Owen, close to trembling from his words.
Akira: I won’t let Cain die. I won’t let you die either.
I’ll protect everyone. I’ll show you that I can win against the moon.
Owen’s eyes widen; after a few seconds, he bursts out laughing.
A silvery moon hangs in the midafternoon sky.
Owen: Ahaha! Winning against the Great Catastrophe, you say! Even though it’s all we can do to keep it at bay.
Oh well. How interesting. Before the wind scatters the petals, you should choose flowers for next year.
Think about which color — and which flower — will suit each person.
Saying that, Owen vanishes.
CHAPTER 10
Cain: I’m back......Hmm? I feel someone’s presence here.
Walking in the sunset courtyard, Cain casts his gaze around him.
I stay silent, and turn around to look at him. He raises one hand, the other holding all sorts of souvenirs from Southern Country.
Cain: If anyone’s there, please touch me. Until you do so, I won’t be able to see you.
If you don’t reply, I might take you for a suspicious person and attack. Here. Please say something.
Cain’s gaze passes right through my face. Gradually, vigilance creeps into his eyes of different colours.
Cain: Hey......
(Sound of a light clap)
I stand in front of him.
And give him a high five, like I always do.
Meeting my eyes, Cain slowly changes his expression, a happy, teasing smile breaking across his face.
Cain: Akira, you tried to scare me.
I can’t say anything, in the blaze of his dazzling smile.
Akira: Ahaha. I wasn’t trying to. Welcome back, Cain.
Cain: I’m home. Here are souvenirs from the South. They’re dried corn seeds, and if you fry them apparently they’ll become snacks.
Akira: It’s popcorn! Popcorn is really delicious!
Cain: Ahaha! So you like it, Akira? That’s great.
Laughing side by side with Cain, I think about the moon in the night sky, soon to appear in a gleam of gold.
I can’t help but to wish.
For the injuries caused by the Great Catastrophe to vanish, and for Cain’s eyesight to return to normal.
For everyone to be safe when the Great Catastrophe next attacks.
For my kind friend standing by my side to not turn to stone trying to protect me.
The evening breeze scatters the flower petals.
As if forcefully declaring to the moon that there won’t be any need for memorial flowers.