healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-06-01 03:08 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-06-01 03:08 pm
Entry tags:
Arthur | The Destiny the Prince Shoulders
MahoYaku Masterpost
Thank you to K for the following translation!
CHAPTER 1
Akira: I’ve finally gotten used to life in the magical quarters. Oh.....here come Arthur and the others.
Figaro: Arthur. Come on, you don’t have to be this depressed.
Snow: That’s right.
White: Don’t take it to heart.
Arthur: I understand......
Akira: (I wonder what happened?)
Akira: Hello everyone, what’s wrong?
Arthur: Sage......Actually, I got scolded by Oz.
Akira: Scolded by Oz? Why?
Arthur: I invited him to play the "I Love You Game" that the last Sage taught me......
Akira: (The previous sage......He taught Arthur the staple game they play at every mixer.....)
Figaro: Do you know about it, Sage? You say "I love you" to the other person, and if they get embarrassed or laugh then it’s their loss.
Akira: I’ve heard of it. But why did Oz get angry?
Arthur: He said, "Those aren’t words you say for fun." He’s right; I was indeed careless.
Snow: Oz was just embarrassed. He was covering up the fact that he was about to lose.
White: What an interesting game. Even if it’s a game, it’s delightful to be told "I love you."
Figaro: What a thing to say. I’d like to go out with someone who would say that to me even outside a game.
Snow, White: You’re just frivolous.
Akira: You all get along so well. Have you and Arthur been close since he was a child?
Arthur: Yes. They often came to visit Oz’s castle.
Figaro: Arthur was always overjoyed when I visited.
Arthur: Yes! Figaro always played with me, so I was happy whenever he came!
Figaro: Arthur would get so worked up that he wouldn’t be able to fall asleep, so Oz would often say, "Don’t visit after dinner," and tell me off.
Snow: We were also scolded for giving Arthur too many sweets.
White: And he’d say, "Don’t play pranks when he’s taking an afternoon nap."
Akira: He really is your typical stay-at-home dad1......
1) The word used is "イクメン" ("ikumen," in which the "iku" is a reading of the character "育," meaning to raise a child): a play on "イケメン" ("ikemen," referring to a handsome guy). An "ikumen," then, is a man who actually takes care of the kids
CHAPTER 2
Arthur: It’s been a while since Oz last scolded me......But he’s right, these aren’t words I should say in a game.
Afterwards, I’ll tell him "I love you" again — seriously this time.
Snow: You’re as honest a child as ever.
White: You don’t get discouraged.
Figaro: Can I come along? He’s definitely going to blush.
Akira: I kind of want to see it too — Arthur conveying his love. It must be really cool!
Arthur: Thank you. I’ll say it to Sage, too, from my heart.
I love you.
Akira: (Spoken like a prince......)
Oh, right, Arthur. Can I ask you some questions about yourself after this?
I thought I’d leave behind detailed information about everyone in the sage’s book in case I return to my world.
Arthur: I don’t want to think about saying goodbye to Sage just yet, but..... Thank you for your consideration in thinking that far ahead.
Well then, how about you come to my room now? I also want to take the time to talk to you, Sage.
Akira: Of course! I’d be happy to!
Arthur smiles happily.
He is a person who lights up the dark night sky like a beam of moonlight. His light isn’t the blazingly bright flame of the sun, nor the faint, ephemeral glow of a star —
But the gentle warmth of the moon on a spring night, which draws close to humans and wizards alike.
CHAPTER 3
Akira: So this is Arthur’s room......
>Option:
Akira: It’s more simple than I imagined. It looks more like the room of a normal boy than the room of a prince.
Arthur: The living quarters at Granvelle Castle are more exaggerated than this, but I feel at ease with just this much.
The voices from the room next door, the sounds of footsteps; it makes me happy to feel everyone else’s presence.
So don’t hold back, and please come visit my room, Sage.
>Option:
Akira: What a wonderful globe. Somehow, it looks like Figaro’s magical object.
Arthur: Figaro gave it to me, saying that I must be lonely, having to leave Oz’s side.
Akira: You must have been.
Arthur: Even after I returned to Granvelle Castle, Figaro secretly came looking for me many times.
I introduced the previous Sage to him, and the three of us often talked. It was exciting; it felt like a secret gathering.
>Option:
Akira: I see you’re an avid reader. There are already so many books on the shelves, yet there’s also an open book on the desk....
Arthur: I love books. There’s a lot of books I would like to read, but I don’t really have the time.....
Akira: Ahaha. I understand how you feel.
Arthur: I get obsessed when I’m reading, and before I know it, it’s already morning. This has happened so many times, like with the book lying open there.
Akira: What is it about?
Arthur: It tells the story of a demon king who ruled over the world, and the warrior and his comrades who defeated him. It keeps you in suspense, and it’s really interesting.
Arthur: I’ll go make some tea for you. I’ve displayed many of my favourite objects here. Isn’t it a wonderful room?
I’ve only ever stayed in spacious rooms before this, both at Oz’s castle and Granvelle Castle. I like how my room here at the magical quarters feels like a secret hideout.
Akira: (How very like something a prince would say......Ah, but can I really make a prince prepare tea for me.....?)
Should I do it instead?
Arthur: Please relax. I can do most housework. I’ve helped Oz with it since I was a child.
Rather than helping, it’s more that I wanted to do it, so Oz had to learn how to do it with me.
Akira: Really?
Arthur: Oz can do anything with magic. But things like kneading dough, and peeling vegetables—isn’t it more fun to do with your own hands?
By the time I left Oz’s castle, I’d become better at these tasks than he was.
The same probably goes for making tea. Here, please drink it. I hope it will be to your liking.
Akira: Oh......it’s delicious!
Arthur: I’m glad!
Arthur: (Arthur looks happy....He really is a prince who’s easy to talk to......)
Akira: You’re such a capable person, but have you ever experienced failure, or encountered things that made you angry?
Arthur: Sure, lots of times! Oh, are these questions for the sage’s book? If so, the answers are too embarrassing......
Akira: Ahaha. I’ll leave them out of the sage’s book. So if it’s all right, please tell me.
Arthur: ......
CHAPTER 4
Arthur: Once when I was a child......I tried to cover up the fact that I wet the bed, so I burned it with magic.
Akira: Isn’t that a little extreme!? Were you trying to hide the evidence?
Arthur: No, I wasn’t! I meant to cast a spell to secretly wash and dry it, but I accidentally set it on fire instead.
Akira: Ahaha! Did you get in trouble with Oz?
Arthur: He was shocked, and came running over. But I was crying, so he didn’t get angry. Oz didn’t get angry often.
Akira: Really!
Arthur: Whenever I cried or got hurt, he would lift me up in his arms and say, "Well, the way I taught you must have been wrong," with a grave expression.
He was a kind and serious person. It might sound arrogant coming from me, but it feels like Oz learnt a lot of things with me.
The habits of animals, the taste of meals....what the world was like. Even though Oz can do anything he wants, there were so many things he didn’t know; he really was a mysterious person.
Listening to Arthur’s stories, I try to imagine the sight of Oz and Arthur, as a child, living together.
Within that vast world of silver and snow in Northern Country, the figure of Oz, a lonely and silent wizard, lifting an innocent, cheerful Arthur in his arms.
It must have surely been a quiet, peaceful, beautiful time overflowing with love.
Arthur: As for things that made me angry.....Because I’m a wizard, I take care not to get mad, so I don’t frighten other people.
However, I might have gotten slightly angry when I came back to the Central Castle, and found out that the images of Oz circulating among the people were truly horrible.
Akira: Horrible images of Oz...... Are you talking about how people think of him as an evil wizard?
CHAPTER 5
Arthur: Yes. Oz is a man of few words, so I think he must have been misunderstood.
I think that’s why they blame Oz for the disastrous catastrophes and wars that happened in history.
Saying that he dominated the world....Even the portraits of Oz in history books were really horrible.
Showing him with tails and horns and three eyeballs. Hair all over, with a face like a crocodile.....But Oz is far more handsome!
Akira: (Ah. He’s actually pretty heated.)
Arthur: I’ve also made it my duty to clear up the misunderstandings about Oz. That’s why I’ve been researching history books in the spare moments between my official duties, and revising the incorrect parts.
Akira: Revising the history books...
Arthur: Yes. The grounds for what is written in the old history books are weak. I’ve been deleting the accounts that portrayed Oz as destroying without reason.
Akira: (I understand how Arthur feels, but what if that really was Oz’s doing.....?)
(Wouldn’t Arthur be wilfully altering history....)
For the first time, I feel unsettled at Arthur’s innocence.
Yet I could not bring myself to recklessly tread on his heart, as unblemished as fresh snow.
Akira: The prejudice towards wizards....After you came back to Granvelle Castle, did you find it bewildering?
Arthur: That’s right...Even though wizards were feared in the North, we weren’t repelled.
I was baffled by the distant attitudes in Central. But I took care not to frighten people, and in the course of reaching a compromise with them, they came to open their hearts to me.
There’s still so much work I have to do, in order for them to understand me as a wizard.
CHAPTER 6
Arthur: Sometimes, I’m lost over which of my selves I should prioritize. The me who is the prince, or the me who is a wizard.
What do you think?
Akira: That’s a difficult question...I wish to treasure both the prince Arthur and the wizard Arthur, but for now......
>Option:
Akira: Please treasure the Arthur who is the prince.
Since you treasure the people, the people, too, will come to treasure the wizards in return.
Arthur: I understand.
>Option:
Akira: Please treasure the Arthur who is a wizard.
As the Sage who guides the wizards, that would make me happy.
Arthur: I understand.
>Option:
Akira: Please treasure what makes you yourself.
There must be things that only you can see from where you stand as both the prince, and as a wizard. I would like you to treasure what makes you unique.
Arthur: I understand.
Arthur: When I first arrived at the castle, I encountered a lot of hardship. Under those circumstances, having Cain there really saved me.
Akira: Cain is a knight of Central Country, after all.
Arthur: Cain is cheerful and kind. And besides, knights are brave, strong, and cool.
Akira: Ahaha. I see you like strong, cool things; that’s so boyish.
Arthur: I look up to people who are strong and kind. I aim to become a strong wizard like Oz.
Aside from Oz, there are many wonderful wizards in the magical quarters that I should learn from.
If I want to grow, which of the wizards do you think I should request instruction from?
Akira: Hmm....everyone has their own quirks, but for now...
>Option:
Akira: How about Faust? He’s serious, has experience fighting against people, and it seems like he was involved with your ancestors.
Arthur: Faust, huh. I’ll ask him next chance I get.
>Option:
Akira: How about Shylock? He goes at his own pace, but he is sophisticated and kind, and I feel like he would teach you how to enjoy life leisurely.
Arthur: Shylock, huh. I’ll ask him next chance I get.
>Option:
Akira: How about Rutile? He’s a teacher in the Southern Country, and I feel like he’d candidly give you the kinds of lessons that someone your age would usually take.
Arthur: Rutile, huh. I’ll ask him next chance I get.
CHAPTER 7
Akira: You were also close to the previous sage, weren’t you.
Arthur: Yes. Even though I can’t even recall his name now......He often told me stories of the other world.
In your world, the people who you respect, look up to, and support—they are called idols1, right?
Akira: Uh....I guess.....you could put it that way?
Arthur: My idol is Sage. I will do my best to strive towards the same purpose alongside you, Sage.
Akira: (This doesn’t feel half bad...)
Arthur: Oz and Figaro are my idols too. Riquet and Mitile who work hard at their studies are also my idols. Thinking about it, I have a lot of idols.
Akira: I also have friends who have a lot of idols.
Arthur: That is a fortunate thing. Is there anything else you wanted to ask?
Akira: Oh.....can I ask you some basic information? Such as your age, a simple personal history.....
Arthur: My name is Arthur Granvelle. I’m 17 years old. I returned to Central Castle when I was 13 years old.
Akira: What are things you’re good at, and things you’re bad at?
Arthur: I’m good at magic, investigation, and memorization. I’m bad at meetings when I haven’t had enough sleep. My brain just doesn’t work......
Akira: It must be hard going back and forth between the Central Castle and the magical quarters.
Arthur: Not at all. I have the support of the wizards here, as well as that of my subordinates in the castle. Besides, there are more and more people who are understanding towards wizards.
Please come visit every once in a while. I’m not sure if the taste will match up to Nero’s cooking, but the castle cooks can serve you ramen.
Akira: Ramen....! It was made for the previous sage, right.
Arthur: Yes. It’s secretly really popular in the castle! Cain said he liked it as well. It would be nice if Riquet liked it too.
Riquet will say anything is delicious, so it makes you want to feed him all kinds of things.
Akira: Ahaha. I feel that. Could you show me your magical object next?
1) Arthur says "推し" ("oshi"), which is the term used by fans of an idol to express that they are that idol’s supporter
CHAPTER 8
Arthur: Of course. It’s this grimoire here.
Arthur holds out his hands, and conjures a large, ancient grimoire out of thin air.
He opens the pages with care, a look of pride on his face.
Arthur: It’s a grimoire I received from Oz. I haven’t read all of it, since it’s such a difficult, substantial book. But it’s my goal to finish reading it someday.
Akira: A grimoire sounds so exciting. What kinds of things are written in it?
Arthur: Things like how to draw magical circles, how to carry out rituals, the characteristics of spirits and gods throughout the land, for example. It also has the history of magic.
Akira: So there’s history when it comes to magic as well.
Arthur: What is seen as ideal changes according to the times; it’s the same for the cultures and politics of human countries.
Magic can only be wielded by wizards, but there are certain charms and incantations that even humans can use.
Crests for warding off evil spirits, divination, herbs and perfumes, moonlight; mysterious forces dwell in various rocks, mirrors, and all sorts of things.
Akira: Really! I’m glad. Looking at everyone makes me think how nice it would be if I could do magic.
Not because it’s convenient, or strong—but just the word magic itself is exciting. Is that rude to say?
Arthur: No, it’s a wonderful thought. I remember Oz said this: "To use magic is to play around with nature, with hearts, with lives and substances."
There are invisible threads connecting everything around us...... They tie together fate and bonds — and give them meaning.
I am bound to this grimoire, as you are to the sage’s book. Our emotions, prayers, and desires bring forth strength.
That’s why each wizard’s magical object contains memories that are special to them. I’m sure all the books that are in this world are the same.
Arthur sends away the grimoire, his eyes — still those of an innocent youth — sparkling.
CHAPTER 9
Arthur: Sage. Every time I read the books in Oz’s castle, it felt like I was wandering through the cosmos.
Like I was stepping into the memories of all sorts of people and setting off on adventures. Books are the wisdom of those who come before us, and the door to other worlds.
I start my life in an unknown world, and each time I finish reading, I am reborn; just like how you came into this world, Sage.
Please teach me your language someday. Then, tell me about the stories — your stories — that are written in the sage’s book.
I would like to travel in the wonderful world that you have woven with your own words.
As if guided by Arthur’s words, my heart beats fast in anticipation of a journey through my own story, one that I have yet to know of.
Holding the sage’s book, I relax into a smile, and nod emphatically.
Akira: I understand. I will try to leave behind a special adventure just for the prince.
>Option:
Akira: A tale that warms your heart, one that you won’t be able to forget.
Arthur: Thank you. That way I will be able to not forget about you.....Akira.
>Option:
Akira: A tale that excites you, where you can’t wait to read what happens next.
Arthur: Thank you. I will do my best so that your happy tale of wizards can continue forevermore.
Saying that, Arthur laughs happily.
CHAPTER 10
Leaving Arthur’s room, the moon is already glittering in the sky.
In the twilight courtyard, the sounds of laughter ring out. Almost immediately, they change to voices shouting for us to join them.
Chloe: Sage! Arthur! Let’s play a game together!
Shino: It’s a game that Arthur taught the twins. Heath is terrible at it.
Heathcliff: You blushed too, Shino.
Rutile: Rustica is really good at it.
Rustica: Thank you. If this continues, it will be my win.
In profile, Arthur gazes happily at the wizards laughing in enjoyment.
At that moment, I realize—Arthur, who is the prince of a human country, and the pupil of the strongest wizard.
He shoulders a complicated destiny, but he is still only a boy, in the heyday of his youth.
Mitile: Come play with us, Arthur! Ah....but we heard you got scolded by Oz....?
Arthur: It’s all right. Oz told me I shouldn’t say it in a game. But the love I have for all of you for real.
Heathcliff: So bold......
Rustica: Oho, did a strong contender appear?
Arthur: Come along, Sage! Let’s go!
Taking my hand, Arthur breaks into a run.
Under the light of the moon, the wizards’ laughter rings out.
I can’t help but wish for this time to continue on, even just a little longer. This time when Arthur can return to being just a boy.
He is an innocent youth who wants to take the hands of both wizards and humans alike, and revel with them.
Arthur: Everyone, let’s keep playing!
Thank you to K for the following translation!
CHAPTER 1
Akira: I’ve finally gotten used to life in the magical quarters. Oh.....here come Arthur and the others.
Figaro: Arthur. Come on, you don’t have to be this depressed.
Snow: That’s right.
White: Don’t take it to heart.
Arthur: I understand......
Akira: (I wonder what happened?)
Akira: Hello everyone, what’s wrong?
Arthur: Sage......Actually, I got scolded by Oz.
Akira: Scolded by Oz? Why?
Arthur: I invited him to play the "I Love You Game" that the last Sage taught me......
Akira: (The previous sage......He taught Arthur the staple game they play at every mixer.....)
Figaro: Do you know about it, Sage? You say "I love you" to the other person, and if they get embarrassed or laugh then it’s their loss.
Akira: I’ve heard of it. But why did Oz get angry?
Arthur: He said, "Those aren’t words you say for fun." He’s right; I was indeed careless.
Snow: Oz was just embarrassed. He was covering up the fact that he was about to lose.
White: What an interesting game. Even if it’s a game, it’s delightful to be told "I love you."
Figaro: What a thing to say. I’d like to go out with someone who would say that to me even outside a game.
Snow, White: You’re just frivolous.
Akira: You all get along so well. Have you and Arthur been close since he was a child?
Arthur: Yes. They often came to visit Oz’s castle.
Figaro: Arthur was always overjoyed when I visited.
Arthur: Yes! Figaro always played with me, so I was happy whenever he came!
Figaro: Arthur would get so worked up that he wouldn’t be able to fall asleep, so Oz would often say, "Don’t visit after dinner," and tell me off.
Snow: We were also scolded for giving Arthur too many sweets.
White: And he’d say, "Don’t play pranks when he’s taking an afternoon nap."
Akira: He really is your typical stay-at-home dad1......
1) The word used is "イクメン" ("ikumen," in which the "iku" is a reading of the character "育," meaning to raise a child): a play on "イケメン" ("ikemen," referring to a handsome guy). An "ikumen," then, is a man who actually takes care of the kids
CHAPTER 2
Arthur: It’s been a while since Oz last scolded me......But he’s right, these aren’t words I should say in a game.
Afterwards, I’ll tell him "I love you" again — seriously this time.
Snow: You’re as honest a child as ever.
White: You don’t get discouraged.
Figaro: Can I come along? He’s definitely going to blush.
Akira: I kind of want to see it too — Arthur conveying his love. It must be really cool!
Arthur: Thank you. I’ll say it to Sage, too, from my heart.
I love you.
Akira: (Spoken like a prince......)
Oh, right, Arthur. Can I ask you some questions about yourself after this?
I thought I’d leave behind detailed information about everyone in the sage’s book in case I return to my world.
Arthur: I don’t want to think about saying goodbye to Sage just yet, but..... Thank you for your consideration in thinking that far ahead.
Well then, how about you come to my room now? I also want to take the time to talk to you, Sage.
Akira: Of course! I’d be happy to!
Arthur smiles happily.
He is a person who lights up the dark night sky like a beam of moonlight. His light isn’t the blazingly bright flame of the sun, nor the faint, ephemeral glow of a star —
But the gentle warmth of the moon on a spring night, which draws close to humans and wizards alike.
CHAPTER 3
Akira: So this is Arthur’s room......
>Option:
Akira: It’s more simple than I imagined. It looks more like the room of a normal boy than the room of a prince.
Arthur: The living quarters at Granvelle Castle are more exaggerated than this, but I feel at ease with just this much.
The voices from the room next door, the sounds of footsteps; it makes me happy to feel everyone else’s presence.
So don’t hold back, and please come visit my room, Sage.
>Option:
Akira: What a wonderful globe. Somehow, it looks like Figaro’s magical object.
Arthur: Figaro gave it to me, saying that I must be lonely, having to leave Oz’s side.
Akira: You must have been.
Arthur: Even after I returned to Granvelle Castle, Figaro secretly came looking for me many times.
I introduced the previous Sage to him, and the three of us often talked. It was exciting; it felt like a secret gathering.
>Option:
Akira: I see you’re an avid reader. There are already so many books on the shelves, yet there’s also an open book on the desk....
Arthur: I love books. There’s a lot of books I would like to read, but I don’t really have the time.....
Akira: Ahaha. I understand how you feel.
Arthur: I get obsessed when I’m reading, and before I know it, it’s already morning. This has happened so many times, like with the book lying open there.
Akira: What is it about?
Arthur: It tells the story of a demon king who ruled over the world, and the warrior and his comrades who defeated him. It keeps you in suspense, and it’s really interesting.
Arthur: I’ll go make some tea for you. I’ve displayed many of my favourite objects here. Isn’t it a wonderful room?
I’ve only ever stayed in spacious rooms before this, both at Oz’s castle and Granvelle Castle. I like how my room here at the magical quarters feels like a secret hideout.
Akira: (How very like something a prince would say......Ah, but can I really make a prince prepare tea for me.....?)
Should I do it instead?
Arthur: Please relax. I can do most housework. I’ve helped Oz with it since I was a child.
Rather than helping, it’s more that I wanted to do it, so Oz had to learn how to do it with me.
Akira: Really?
Arthur: Oz can do anything with magic. But things like kneading dough, and peeling vegetables—isn’t it more fun to do with your own hands?
By the time I left Oz’s castle, I’d become better at these tasks than he was.
The same probably goes for making tea. Here, please drink it. I hope it will be to your liking.
Akira: Oh......it’s delicious!
Arthur: I’m glad!
Arthur: (Arthur looks happy....He really is a prince who’s easy to talk to......)
Akira: You’re such a capable person, but have you ever experienced failure, or encountered things that made you angry?
Arthur: Sure, lots of times! Oh, are these questions for the sage’s book? If so, the answers are too embarrassing......
Akira: Ahaha. I’ll leave them out of the sage’s book. So if it’s all right, please tell me.
Arthur: ......
CHAPTER 4
Arthur: Once when I was a child......I tried to cover up the fact that I wet the bed, so I burned it with magic.
Akira: Isn’t that a little extreme!? Were you trying to hide the evidence?
Arthur: No, I wasn’t! I meant to cast a spell to secretly wash and dry it, but I accidentally set it on fire instead.
Akira: Ahaha! Did you get in trouble with Oz?
Arthur: He was shocked, and came running over. But I was crying, so he didn’t get angry. Oz didn’t get angry often.
Akira: Really!
Arthur: Whenever I cried or got hurt, he would lift me up in his arms and say, "Well, the way I taught you must have been wrong," with a grave expression.
He was a kind and serious person. It might sound arrogant coming from me, but it feels like Oz learnt a lot of things with me.
The habits of animals, the taste of meals....what the world was like. Even though Oz can do anything he wants, there were so many things he didn’t know; he really was a mysterious person.
Listening to Arthur’s stories, I try to imagine the sight of Oz and Arthur, as a child, living together.
Within that vast world of silver and snow in Northern Country, the figure of Oz, a lonely and silent wizard, lifting an innocent, cheerful Arthur in his arms.
It must have surely been a quiet, peaceful, beautiful time overflowing with love.
Arthur: As for things that made me angry.....Because I’m a wizard, I take care not to get mad, so I don’t frighten other people.
However, I might have gotten slightly angry when I came back to the Central Castle, and found out that the images of Oz circulating among the people were truly horrible.
Akira: Horrible images of Oz...... Are you talking about how people think of him as an evil wizard?
CHAPTER 5
Arthur: Yes. Oz is a man of few words, so I think he must have been misunderstood.
I think that’s why they blame Oz for the disastrous catastrophes and wars that happened in history.
Saying that he dominated the world....Even the portraits of Oz in history books were really horrible.
Showing him with tails and horns and three eyeballs. Hair all over, with a face like a crocodile.....But Oz is far more handsome!
Akira: (Ah. He’s actually pretty heated.)
Arthur: I’ve also made it my duty to clear up the misunderstandings about Oz. That’s why I’ve been researching history books in the spare moments between my official duties, and revising the incorrect parts.
Akira: Revising the history books...
Arthur: Yes. The grounds for what is written in the old history books are weak. I’ve been deleting the accounts that portrayed Oz as destroying without reason.
Akira: (I understand how Arthur feels, but what if that really was Oz’s doing.....?)
(Wouldn’t Arthur be wilfully altering history....)
For the first time, I feel unsettled at Arthur’s innocence.
Yet I could not bring myself to recklessly tread on his heart, as unblemished as fresh snow.
Akira: The prejudice towards wizards....After you came back to Granvelle Castle, did you find it bewildering?
Arthur: That’s right...Even though wizards were feared in the North, we weren’t repelled.
I was baffled by the distant attitudes in Central. But I took care not to frighten people, and in the course of reaching a compromise with them, they came to open their hearts to me.
There’s still so much work I have to do, in order for them to understand me as a wizard.
CHAPTER 6
Arthur: Sometimes, I’m lost over which of my selves I should prioritize. The me who is the prince, or the me who is a wizard.
What do you think?
Akira: That’s a difficult question...I wish to treasure both the prince Arthur and the wizard Arthur, but for now......
>Option:
Akira: Please treasure the Arthur who is the prince.
Since you treasure the people, the people, too, will come to treasure the wizards in return.
Arthur: I understand.
>Option:
Akira: Please treasure the Arthur who is a wizard.
As the Sage who guides the wizards, that would make me happy.
Arthur: I understand.
>Option:
Akira: Please treasure what makes you yourself.
There must be things that only you can see from where you stand as both the prince, and as a wizard. I would like you to treasure what makes you unique.
Arthur: I understand.
Arthur: When I first arrived at the castle, I encountered a lot of hardship. Under those circumstances, having Cain there really saved me.
Akira: Cain is a knight of Central Country, after all.
Arthur: Cain is cheerful and kind. And besides, knights are brave, strong, and cool.
Akira: Ahaha. I see you like strong, cool things; that’s so boyish.
Arthur: I look up to people who are strong and kind. I aim to become a strong wizard like Oz.
Aside from Oz, there are many wonderful wizards in the magical quarters that I should learn from.
If I want to grow, which of the wizards do you think I should request instruction from?
Akira: Hmm....everyone has their own quirks, but for now...
>Option:
Akira: How about Faust? He’s serious, has experience fighting against people, and it seems like he was involved with your ancestors.
Arthur: Faust, huh. I’ll ask him next chance I get.
>Option:
Akira: How about Shylock? He goes at his own pace, but he is sophisticated and kind, and I feel like he would teach you how to enjoy life leisurely.
Arthur: Shylock, huh. I’ll ask him next chance I get.
>Option:
Akira: How about Rutile? He’s a teacher in the Southern Country, and I feel like he’d candidly give you the kinds of lessons that someone your age would usually take.
Arthur: Rutile, huh. I’ll ask him next chance I get.
CHAPTER 7
Akira: You were also close to the previous sage, weren’t you.
Arthur: Yes. Even though I can’t even recall his name now......He often told me stories of the other world.
In your world, the people who you respect, look up to, and support—they are called idols1, right?
Akira: Uh....I guess.....you could put it that way?
Arthur: My idol is Sage. I will do my best to strive towards the same purpose alongside you, Sage.
Akira: (This doesn’t feel half bad...)
Arthur: Oz and Figaro are my idols too. Riquet and Mitile who work hard at their studies are also my idols. Thinking about it, I have a lot of idols.
Akira: I also have friends who have a lot of idols.
Arthur: That is a fortunate thing. Is there anything else you wanted to ask?
Akira: Oh.....can I ask you some basic information? Such as your age, a simple personal history.....
Arthur: My name is Arthur Granvelle. I’m 17 years old. I returned to Central Castle when I was 13 years old.
Akira: What are things you’re good at, and things you’re bad at?
Arthur: I’m good at magic, investigation, and memorization. I’m bad at meetings when I haven’t had enough sleep. My brain just doesn’t work......
Akira: It must be hard going back and forth between the Central Castle and the magical quarters.
Arthur: Not at all. I have the support of the wizards here, as well as that of my subordinates in the castle. Besides, there are more and more people who are understanding towards wizards.
Please come visit every once in a while. I’m not sure if the taste will match up to Nero’s cooking, but the castle cooks can serve you ramen.
Akira: Ramen....! It was made for the previous sage, right.
Arthur: Yes. It’s secretly really popular in the castle! Cain said he liked it as well. It would be nice if Riquet liked it too.
Riquet will say anything is delicious, so it makes you want to feed him all kinds of things.
Akira: Ahaha. I feel that. Could you show me your magical object next?
1) Arthur says "推し" ("oshi"), which is the term used by fans of an idol to express that they are that idol’s supporter
CHAPTER 8
Arthur: Of course. It’s this grimoire here.
Arthur holds out his hands, and conjures a large, ancient grimoire out of thin air.
He opens the pages with care, a look of pride on his face.
Arthur: It’s a grimoire I received from Oz. I haven’t read all of it, since it’s such a difficult, substantial book. But it’s my goal to finish reading it someday.
Akira: A grimoire sounds so exciting. What kinds of things are written in it?
Arthur: Things like how to draw magical circles, how to carry out rituals, the characteristics of spirits and gods throughout the land, for example. It also has the history of magic.
Akira: So there’s history when it comes to magic as well.
Arthur: What is seen as ideal changes according to the times; it’s the same for the cultures and politics of human countries.
Magic can only be wielded by wizards, but there are certain charms and incantations that even humans can use.
Crests for warding off evil spirits, divination, herbs and perfumes, moonlight; mysterious forces dwell in various rocks, mirrors, and all sorts of things.
Akira: Really! I’m glad. Looking at everyone makes me think how nice it would be if I could do magic.
Not because it’s convenient, or strong—but just the word magic itself is exciting. Is that rude to say?
Arthur: No, it’s a wonderful thought. I remember Oz said this: "To use magic is to play around with nature, with hearts, with lives and substances."
There are invisible threads connecting everything around us...... They tie together fate and bonds — and give them meaning.
I am bound to this grimoire, as you are to the sage’s book. Our emotions, prayers, and desires bring forth strength.
That’s why each wizard’s magical object contains memories that are special to them. I’m sure all the books that are in this world are the same.
Arthur sends away the grimoire, his eyes — still those of an innocent youth — sparkling.
CHAPTER 9
Arthur: Sage. Every time I read the books in Oz’s castle, it felt like I was wandering through the cosmos.
Like I was stepping into the memories of all sorts of people and setting off on adventures. Books are the wisdom of those who come before us, and the door to other worlds.
I start my life in an unknown world, and each time I finish reading, I am reborn; just like how you came into this world, Sage.
Please teach me your language someday. Then, tell me about the stories — your stories — that are written in the sage’s book.
I would like to travel in the wonderful world that you have woven with your own words.
As if guided by Arthur’s words, my heart beats fast in anticipation of a journey through my own story, one that I have yet to know of.
Holding the sage’s book, I relax into a smile, and nod emphatically.
Akira: I understand. I will try to leave behind a special adventure just for the prince.
>Option:
Akira: A tale that warms your heart, one that you won’t be able to forget.
Arthur: Thank you. That way I will be able to not forget about you.....Akira.
>Option:
Akira: A tale that excites you, where you can’t wait to read what happens next.
Arthur: Thank you. I will do my best so that your happy tale of wizards can continue forevermore.
Saying that, Arthur laughs happily.
CHAPTER 10
Leaving Arthur’s room, the moon is already glittering in the sky.
In the twilight courtyard, the sounds of laughter ring out. Almost immediately, they change to voices shouting for us to join them.
Chloe: Sage! Arthur! Let’s play a game together!
Shino: It’s a game that Arthur taught the twins. Heath is terrible at it.
Heathcliff: You blushed too, Shino.
Rutile: Rustica is really good at it.
Rustica: Thank you. If this continues, it will be my win.
In profile, Arthur gazes happily at the wizards laughing in enjoyment.
At that moment, I realize—Arthur, who is the prince of a human country, and the pupil of the strongest wizard.
He shoulders a complicated destiny, but he is still only a boy, in the heyday of his youth.
Mitile: Come play with us, Arthur! Ah....but we heard you got scolded by Oz....?
Arthur: It’s all right. Oz told me I shouldn’t say it in a game. But the love I have for all of you for real.
Heathcliff: So bold......
Rustica: Oho, did a strong contender appear?
Arthur: Come along, Sage! Let’s go!
Taking my hand, Arthur breaks into a run.
Under the light of the moon, the wizards’ laughter rings out.
I can’t help but wish for this time to continue on, even just a little longer. This time when Arthur can return to being just a boy.
He is an innocent youth who wants to take the hands of both wizards and humans alike, and revel with them.
Arthur: Everyone, let’s keep playing!