healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-07-04 01:54 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-07-04 01:54 pm
Main Story | Chapter 13 | The Northern Wizards
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Chapter 12 << | index | >> Chapter 14
Chapter 13: The Northern Wizards
13.1 The Northern Wizards
13.2 The Last Ones To Arrive
13.3 The Twenty-One Wizards
13.4 A Fearless Smile
13.5 The Curse of Words
13.6 Your Own Name
13.7 Repairing the Tower
13.8 Injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >
13.1 The Northern Wizards
(Rumbling)
Akira: ............!?
Central Country noblewoman: Eep......!
Rustica: Oh no. Are you all right, my lady?
Drummond: M-Mithra of the North......! He’s savage and brutal, and his magical power is second only to Oz’s......!
C-could he have heard us just now — is he coming for us in a fit of anger?
Nicholas: Th-that can’t be......
(Thud)
Vincent: ......Secure the castle perimeters!
Central Country nobleman: Eek......! The Northern wizards are going to kill us all......!
Snow: Shylock, Murr. If Mithra starts a rampage, do you think you could stop him?
Shylock: Of course not.
Murr: No way.
White: Thank you for your immediate response.
Shylock & Murr: You're welcome.
Cain: Should we get Faust? But I guess he might just side with Mithra....
Figaro: No, he's actually quite a softie, so I don't think he'll harm any innocent civilians....
Shino: Sounds like fun. I'll take him on.
Heathcliff: Don’t be an idiot! Stand back!
Shino: Did you just call me an idiot?
Heathcliff: ....You can only be so bold because you don't actually know Mithra.....
Shino: ........
Heathcliff: ....What should we do.... Sir Oz is the only one who can defeat him......
Rutile: ....Mithra....?
Could he be.... Uncle Mithra....?
Arthur: Uncle, watch out! Behind you!
Vincent: .............!
At Arthur’s voice, everyone turns to look behind Vincent.
A giant, glowing door mysteriously materializes into the space where there had only been a wall.
(Creak)
The door swings open, pale light spilling from the cracks.
Akira: ..............
Arthur: This is.......
Arthur moves to shield Mister Vincent, narrowing his eyes against the bright light emanating from the door.
Something blows into the room through the open door.
— It’s a blizzard.
Akira: ............!
When my eyes grow used to the brightness, I see him.
A young man, leaning wordlessly against the door, silvery flakes of fine snow falling onto his shoulders.
Exuding an air of striking sensuality, he is too handsome a man to call a beast.
Mithra: Hello.
I'm the Northern wizard, Mithra. Though I suppose I am an uninvited guest.
Excuse me.
With an easy languor to his movements, he pushes his tall, slender figure off the doorframe and walks forward.
Snow, White, Shylock, and even Figaro look nervous.
And then the looks on their faces turn to despair.
Because Mithra isn’t the only figure to emerge from the door.
Snow: ....Owen....
White: So you came too.....
Owen: .......
Haha.......
The young man, as lifeless as a corpse, smiles faintly.
The moment I set my eyes on him, my skin prickles with goosebumps.
The depths of his smiling eyes hold no trace of human emotion.
They emit only a cold, terrifying light.
But I am familiar with the colors of his eyes.
Owen: How rude. Is nobody going to welcome me?
I'm the Northern wizard Owen.
Nice to meet you.
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13.2 The Last Ones To Arrive
Owen's footsteps echo quietly as he cuts his way across the room.
Everyone stares at their feet in cold despair; nobody wants to make eye contact with him.
With the exception of one person.
Cain: Owen....!
Owen: ...Oh my, Sir Knight.
It suits you quite well — my eyeball, that is.
Akira: (That's right....)
(Owen is the one who stole Cain's eye.....)
Cain: So you're the only person I can see..... This is some cruel irony.
Owen: Fufu... What are you talking about?
Owen smiles sardonically, turning to look back at the door.
The person who steps out next is someone I’ve met before.
Bradley: Tch....
Northern wizard, Bradley.
Akira: ......Bradley......!
It’s Bradley, who suddenly disappeared the other night.
Someone told me that he was a prisoner.
Bradley: Just when I thought I could finally kick back and get away from it all... I had to get dragged back into this fucking mess.
Bradley brushes the snow off himself and strides forward into the room.
At the sight of Bradley’s figure, one person stands rooted to the spot in bewilderment.
Nero: ............
Bradley: Hey, Nero. It sure has been a while.
Did you have fun going clean and washing your hands of the bandit gang while I was stuck in jail?
Riquet: .......Bandit gang......?
Nero: ......This has nothing to do with you.
Bradley: Ahaha! That crest!
So you were chosen too, Nero!
Nero: ...............
The sudden arrival of the three Northern wizards...
Sinks the atmosphere of the magnificent ballroom into terror and despair.
A clear demonstration of the overwhelming power they wield.
Mithra. Owen. Bradley.
If they put their minds to it, they could easily take this castle for themselves.
Even Mister Vincent doesn’t dare move a muscle.
Yet they show no signs of attacking.
They simply turn towards the strange door behind them, looking annoyed.
As if waiting for someone.
(Footsteps)
The last person to step out of the door is......
Oz: ..........
Akira: ....Oz.....
Arthur: ......Sir Oz......!
—Oz, holding his mysterious staff in one hand.
The strange door waits for Oz to cross its threshold before easing shut with a solemn thud.
Then it vanishes, as if a mere illusion, leaving behind only a light dusting of snow.
Everyone stares at Oz in sheer disbelief.
Oz doesn’t say anything.
Akira: (Oz...... Did he.......)
(Did he hear us out......?)
(That’s why he forced the Northern wizards into submission and brought them here......)
Oz: I’m the Central wizard, Oz.
Now all of the Sage’s wizards have assembled.
Younger brother of the King of Central. If you are still dissatisfied, speak your mind now.
Vincent: .............
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13.3 The Twenty-One Wizards
Faced with Oz’s glare, Mister Vincent looks away, like he’s trying to escape.
Vincent: ......I extend a sincere welcome.
Everyone in the ballroom breathes a sigh of relief at the reply bitterly wrung out of Mister Vincent’s throat.
Murr smiles and raises his glass.
Murr: Alright then, let the party go on!
✦✧☾✧✦
The cheering continues, and the party vigorously swings back to life.
(Footsteps)
Arthur runs up to Oz’s side, a smile stretched over his face.
Arthur: Sir Oz! Thank you very much!
Oz: ........
He looks at Arthur without saying a word and then curtly averts his eyes.
Oz: There is no reason for you to thank me.
Arthur: ...Ah.... Yes, I am aware. But you made everyone so happy.
Oz: ........
Sage.
Oz says, looking at me.
Oz: I've fulfilled my duty.
And then, just like that—
For the first time, all of the wizards of the magic headquarters have gathered together.
✦✧☾✧✦
Some tension still lingers in the air, but everyone seems to be enjoying the party.
I observe Mithra.
His tall, slender figure makes for an attractive sight; his cool gaze would probably cause riots amongst girls.
Akira: (He has such a polite manner that I can’t really see what makes him a "beast," but......)
Just as the thought enters my mind, Mithra reaches forward with long fingers that look like they belong to an artist, and grabs a piece of meat.
Akira: ............!
Mithra: ......Chomp.......
And then he bites into it, gnawing and tearing off huge chunks.
Mithra chews away without sparing a thought for his handsome face, his fingers and lips sticky with grease.
Akira: (......He has such a pretty face, but......)
Snow: Glad you came, Mithra. I was worried that the gates of hell would burst open.
Mithra: Oz dragged me here by force......
Mithra showcases his lack of manners by licking his fingers and narrowing his eyes in resentment.
His behavior is vulgar and wild, but there is a languid attractiveness to him.
Mithra: I really will kill him one day.
White: Now, now. Thanks to him, you get to eat this delicious food.
Mithra: It’s all the same once it ends up in your stomach.
Snow: Oh, that's right. Let me introduce the sage.
I wince when Snow and White direct the conversation to me.
Mithra looks over at me nonchalantly.
Akira: Ah...... I’m the Sage, Akira. Nice to meet you.
Mithra: Yeah. Hello......
Mithra greets me offhandedly, then suddenly brings his face close to mine.
He sniffs around the nape of my neck, and steps back like nothing happened.
Mithra: I see.....
Akira: (W-what was that.......!?)
Mithra: By the way, why was I called here? Are you sure I don’t have to defeat anything or kill anyone?
Snow: You certainly are hot-blooded. The Sage will assign you a role — try asking him.
Akira: Eh!?
I flounder as the topic swings back to me. Mithra sinks his teeth into the meat, tilting his head to one side.
Mithra: What should I do?
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13.4 A Fearless Smile
Mithra: What should I do?
Akira: Um... For today, please have an enjoyable night with the other wizards and the people of Central.
Mithra: ...... That's it?
Akira: Th...... That's it.
Mithra gazes at me for a moment, then breaks into an amused smile.
Mithra: Ahaha.
He smiles, as carefree as a child.
I’m mesmerized by this unexpected expression.
Mithra shakes his head cheerfully.
Mithra: Oh, most certainly. Oz should have just said that from the start.
Akira: Wh...... What did Oz tell you?
Mithra: He said, "Obey me." Naturally, we ended up trying to kill each other. He really infuriates me.
Mithra lifts a hand, still sticky with grease, to sweep his long fringe aside.
I reflexively grab a napkin and stuff it into his hand.
Mithra blinks at me with a confused look on his face.
Akira: Um, you’ll get grease in your hair if you do that, so I think you should wipe your hands first.
Mithra: What's wrong with that?
Akira: I... I mean, if you're okay with it...
Mithra: Okay... I'll try using it, then.
Mithra wipes his fingers with the napkin, still looking slightly mystified. When I point to his lips, he uses the napkin to wipe his mouth as well.
For some reason, the twins look deeply moved.
Snow: I never thought I would witness Mithra wiping his mouth with a napkin....
White: You really do live to see all sorts of wonders....
Mithra looks like he’d be suited for an elegant dinner at a high-class restaurant, yet he’s incredibly informal when it comes to a lot of things.
As soon as he wipes his hands, he grabs an ornamental apple and bites into it.
Mithra: Well then, I'll take a walk around. I just have to be nice to the people who speak to me, right?
Snow: I don't think anyone will try to speak to you... You should try speaking to them instead.
Mithra: Okay...... What should I say?
White: You could say, "Hello"?
Snow: Or something like, "It's lovely weather"?
Mithra laughs wryly with a shake of his shoulders.
Mithra: I understand. Humans certainly take it into their minds to do foolish things.
Snow: Don't kill them.
White: You must not kill them.
Mithra: Well, I'll try my best.
Mithra strolls off, and the twins watch his back before turning to me.
Snow: We’re a little worried, so we’ll go follow him.
White: Sage, take your time and enjoy yourself too.
Akira: Yes, I understand.
I nod, seeing them off.
I feel a brief sense of relief; I was terrified of Mithra, but I managed to speak to him normally.
At this rate, maybe I can have a conversation with Owen, too.
With that thought in mind, I look around the room. My eyes land on Owen immediately.
—He, too, is looking right at me.
With a smile on his face.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next moment, I find myself on the balcony.
Akira: Huh......!?
Owen: Hey.
Akira: Owen...... We were inside just a moment ago.....
Owen: I called you here.
Akira: You did....?
Owen: I have no friends, so I wanted you to speak to me. Sir Sage.
I gaze at Owen incredulously, because I’ve heard so many scary rumours about him.
Owen smiles sadly.
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13.5 The Curse of Words
Owen: That look on your face... It’s fine. I’m used to it. Was I a bother? I’ll send you back inside.
Akira: Ah... I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.....
I’m taken aback by how lonely Owen looks.
But now that I think about it — all my knowledge of him comes from rumors.
I don’t know the real Owen.
Akira: Let’s talk, Owen. I wanted to speak with you too.
Owen: Talk about what?
Akira: Um.... I’d love to know what kind of person you are, Owen.
We will probably be seeing a lot of each other from here on out, so I want to get along....
Owen: Ahaha.....
Owen smiles faintly.
The setting sun burns behind him.
Beautifully ominous purple clouds drift across the sky.
Owen: I want to talk about myself too. But I don’t know much about myself.
Akira: Huh....?
Owen: But I do know about you — you, the Sage who is all alone.
His eyes — the same color as Cain’s — glint with amusement.
And as I stare into those eyes, I’m overcome by a sudden surge of loneliness.
Owen: Want me to tell you?
Akira: About what....?
Owen: About yourself.
What people think of you.
What will make people laugh at you.
What will make people loathe you.
What will make people praise you.
Did the parade make you feel good? Did the party make you happy? Those are mere tricks made to fool children.
The wizards and the people you met in this world — they don't actually care about you at all.
If you act like a sage, they're willing to speak to you, but the moment you forget your duty, they will shower you with criticism.
Because nobody has business with you unless you're the Sage — and you must feel the same way too.
Akira: ...What are you saying...?
Owen: When you think about yourself, don't you get extremely....
Anxious?
Don't you feel so lonely?
Akira: .......
I take a step back, suddenly terrified.
Owen steps closer, still smiling.
Owen: Why are you running away? I'm talking about you.
Do you hate yourself so much that you want to run away?
Is your true self someone you’d rather avert your eyes from?
The glow of the red and purple sunset blurs in the light.
Owen laughs, narrowing his eyes of different colors.
As I stagger, he offers me a hand.
Owen: Hey.... Let's talk about you.
Come on, don't run away. Pity me; don't abandon me.
Please guide me, Sir Sage.
Oz: —Owen.
Owen: ..........
That’s when I realize that Oz has appeared on the balcony with us.
Owen purses his lips as if he’s lost interest.
Owen: What is it? Can’t you see we’re busy talking?
Oz: Stay away from the Sage.
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13.6 Your Own Name
Oz: Stay away from the Sage.
Owen: Oh? But you were the one who brought me here?
Oz replies, unmoved by Owen’s sneering.
Oz: I did.
Owen: ......Hmph.
Owen glares sulkily at Oz.
And then he slides away from me.
As his form begins to vanish like smoke, he flashes a wicked smile at Oz.
Owen: No use pretending you're a good boy, Oz.
I know who you really are — you're the king of demons, scarier than the < Great Catastrophe > itself.
Oz: Do you want me to kill you again, Owen?
Owen: Fufu...... Ahaha......
Owen disappears, leaving behind only his laughter.
Akira: ....Ah....
Oz: Do not worry. He's probably somewhere near.
I let out a sigh of relief.
I was afraid I’d chased him off after Oz went through the trouble of bringing him here.
The evening breeze sends lavender clouds drifting across the sky.
Akira: ......What did you mean when you said, "want me to kill you again"......?
Oz: Owen has hidden his soul. That is why, no matter how many times he dies, he will always come back to life. What did you talk about with Owen?
Akira: ......Nothing much......
Oz: Do not listen to Owen's words. They will eat away at your soul.
Akira: ............
Oz: Did he curse you?
Akira: No...... He simply asked me about myself.
Oz: That is the curse. To speak of yourself to someone you have not opened your heart to — anyone would find that a painful burden to bear.
I feel a sense of relief at Oz’s words.
Because when I was talking to Owen, some part of me couldn’t resist the uncertainty, hopelessness, and guilt.
Oz: ......
Oz looks at me intently, like he has something to say.
After a while, he turns his gaze towards the twilight sky.
Oz: What is your name?
Akira: Ah...... My name is Akira.
Oz: Akira.
Oz says my name carefully.
Oz: Do not forget your name. The greater your duty, the more easily you come to forget your name.
The king, the doctor, the knight, the mother, the child. The Sage. The Northern wizards.
Crushed by the weight of the titles forced upon them, they cease to be beings with names, and lose their true selves.
I, too, have already forgotten the previous sage's name....
Akira: Oz......
Oz: But you still have your own name. Do not forget it, and do not let anyone else forget it.
I feel the weight carried in those words.
I nod solemnly, and ask Oz.
Akira: ......Are you also thinking about Arthur, who is a wizard, and the Prince of Central?
Oz: ............
Oz looks stunned.
He seems terribly irritated, but he also looks slightly embarrassed.
Oz: .....What are you talking about?
Akira: You were the one who raised Arthur, right?
Oz: Don’t be foolish.
Oz abruptly turns his face to the side.
Oz: That child possessed powerful magic. I simply picked him up to gather his stone.
Akira: Really....?
Oz: That's right. And now he has returned to his parents. ......That is all there is to it.
Akira: But.....
Oz: Do not concern yourself with others. Take care that you do not forget my warning.
If you get tired of being the Sage, you may cast aside your role. Even if you do, you will still be yourself.
Do not blindly follow your role. For even if you try to abandon it, it will still follow you.
Do not let trivial curses sway your heart.
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13.7 Repairing the Tower
Though Oz speaks with a strict tone, I can tell it’s his way of encouraging and comforting me.
I laugh and nod.
Akira: I understand, Oz. Thank you.
Oz furrows his brows, turning his face away; he says the same thing he said to Arthur earlier.
Oz: There is no reason for you to thank me.
He looks scary, but I think Oz must be a kind person.
He reminds me of the boss of the neighborhood cats, who was proud and splendid, with chubby legs. He never got attached to humans, but he was always kind to the mother cats and their kittens.
I suppress my laughter at the image, and Oz looks at me with a puzzled face.
Oz: What is it......?
(Door opens)
Vincent: Sir Sage, Oz. So this is where you were.
Akira: You’re Arthur’s uncle......
Oz: .............
Vincent: I apologize for Nicholas’ behavior earlier. I have a favor I’d like to ask of you two.
Akira: A favor......?
Vincent: Look to the north. There’s a collapsed tower.
Akira: Ah....... That’s the huge tower I saw when I arrived in this world......
Vincent: The tower is a symbol of Central Country, but it collapsed in an earthquake this morning.
Akira: There was an earthquake?
Vincent: It seems to have been a highly localized earthquake. There were no other damages, except for the tower and the gate nearby, which has been all but destroyed.
Under normal circumstances, we would repair it ourselves. But the people fear that it is a harbinger of further misfortune to come.
Could you repair it with magic? I’m sure it would go a long way towards reassuring the people if they could witness such an incredible feat with their own eyes.
I’ve tried asking Arthur, but it proved to be beyond him. But I’m sure it’s perfectly possible for one such as the legendary wizard Oz.
Oz: .............
Oz doesn’t say anything. Perhaps he’s displeased by Vincent’s high-handed way of speaking.
But if he can restore such an important symbol, surely it would improve the reputation of wizards in the people’s eyes.
I tentatively observe Oz’s expression.
Akira: Oz...... I’m asking this of you as well. Could you please repair the tower?
Oz: .......If that is your wish, Sage.
Vincent: You have my thanks. Well then, I’ll show you to the tower tomorrow......
Oz: I can do it from here.
Oz murmurs with exasperation, his staff already in hand.
Vincent: Right here...? You mean you're going to repair it right now...?
Oz: Do you have any objections?
Vincent: ......No......
Without my realizing, the sky has turned a deep shade of cerulean blue.
The outline of the < Great Catastrophe > is faintly visible in the sky.
I suddenly recall the bizarre injuries that the < Great Catastrophe > inflicted on the wizards.
Snow and White turn into a portrait at nightfall, and Cain cannot see anyone until he touches them. Shylock’s heart will suddenly burst into flames.
Have Oz and the Northern wizards also been inflicted with injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >?
(Footsteps)
Mithra: What are you doing?
Akira: Mithra....
Arthur: Sir Oz... Sir Oz, are you going to repair the Central tower for us?
Akira: And Arthur...... Yes, that's right.
Mithra: Interesting. Let me watch.
Oz: Do not speak with food in your mouth.
Mithra: This thing is really hard, you know?
Arthur: Mithra. You don't have to eat the shells. Please spit them out.
Mithra: Why? Do you want them? If you do, then it makes me want to eat them all the more.
Arthur: Is that so......? I hope scallop shells aren’t bad for your teeth......
Mithra: They’re tasting more and more like biscuits.
Oz: Silence, both of you.
Arthur: S-sorry!
Mithra: Wahhh, wahhhhh, waaaaaaaaah.
Arthur shrinks back at Oz’s reproach, while Mithra lets loose a stream of taunting jeers.
Taking a deep breath, Oz raises his staff towards the sky.
And solemnly recites his spell.
Oz: << Vox...... >>
But before he can get to the end of his spell, Oz’s eyelids slowly close, and......
His entire body leans over onto me.
The next moment, Oz has fallen asleep.
Oz: Zz......
Akira: O-Oz!?
Arthur: Sir Oz!?
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13.8 Injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >
Oz: Zz......
Akira: P-please don't fall asleep! Plea...... He's really heavy!
Mithra: What is he doing?
Arthur: Sir Oz, Sir Oz! Please pull yourself together!
Oz: ........
Arthur shakes Oz’s body, and Oz opens his eyes.
He gazes at Arthur before surveying the area around him.
Oz: Where am I......
Right, the Central castle. I was asked to repair the Central tower. By that youth who was all bark and didn't wish to lift a finger himself.
Vincent: .......Are you talking about me?
Oz: I didn’t realize you were here. No matter.
<< Vox...... >>
Zz.......
Arthur: Sir Oz....!
Akira: Oz......! Don't fall asleep......!
Mithra: Ahahaha! I'll push him off the balcony while I can!
Arthur: Don't be so rude! Sir Oz, Sir Oz! Are you all right?
Oz: ...... Where am I.....
Right, the Central castle. I was asked to repair the Central tower.
Arthur: Sir Oz, you said that just......
Oz: Well, no matter. I’ll get this done in a second.
<< Vox...... >>
Zz.......
Arthur: Sir Oz......!!
Mithra: Ahahaha! This is the third time!
Arthur: ......Don't laugh at Sir Oz! There must be a reason for this!
Akira: It might be his injury from the < Great Catastrophe >!
Everyone who fought the < Great Catastrophe > is suffering from a bizarre injury. Mithra, are you all right?
Mithra: ......Because of the < Great Catastrophe >......?
Oz: ...... Where am I.....
Arthur: Sir Oz...... This is the Central castle. You were asked to repair the Central tower with magic, but......
Because of the < Great Catastrophe >, it looks like you fall asleep every time you try to use magic.
Oz: ......... .......Don’t be ridiculous......
That cannot be. I was able to use magic against Mithra and Owen.
Mithra: That's right. You nearly killed me.
Arthur: Then, why......
Owen: Maybe he can't use it at night?
Akira: Owen......
Oz: Owen, what is that portrait you’re carrying? ...... Is that Snow and White......?
Owen: These two got trapped inside a frame the moment the sun went down.
Snow in the portrait: Owen, be a good boy.
White in the portrait: You must treat us with care.
Owen: Can I throw you off the balcony to see if you can fly while you're stuck in the frame?
Snow & White in the portrait: No no no no no no no!
Owen: There we go~.
(Whistling sound through the air)
Snow & White in the portrait: Eeeeeeeeek~!
Arthur: Sir Snow! Sir White!
Owen tosses the portrait of Snow and White from the balcony.
Akira: W-will they be all right!?
Oz: I can sense their magic. They should be fine.
Owen: Mithra.
Mithra: What is it?
Owen: You should cast away Oz just like that.
Mithra: ........
Mithra blinks repeatedly, looking at Oz’s bitter expression.
Owen: You can beat Oz for sure right now. If you kill him, you won’t have to obey him anymore.
Mithra: That’s true.
Oz: Mithra......
Mithra: There’s no way I could lose to you if you can’t use magic. I never thought the < Great Catastrophe > would leave me such a blessing......
Oz: ......
Mithra: Oz. I'm going to pay you back for all these years.
Akira: Mithra! Wait......
Arthur: Wait!
In a moment, Arthur steps out in front of Oz, both arms spread wide as if he’s protecting him.
Oz’s eyes widen.
Arthur: I won't let you lay a finger on Sir Oz. If you intend to fight, I will be your opponent.
Mithra: Huh.....
Oz: Move, Arthur!
Arthur: I refuse!
Oz: You do not stand a chance against him!
Arthur: Even so!
Oz: .......
Arthur: I...... I will protect you, Sir Oz. Just as you protected me from avalanches and wolves when I was little!
I will definitely protect you!
Mithra: Interesting.
I’ll be your opponent.
Oz: Stop, Mithra!
Akira: Arthur, Mithra....!
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Chapter 12 << | index | >> Chapter 14
Chapter 12 << | index | >> Chapter 14
Chapter 13: The Northern Wizards
13.1 The Northern Wizards
13.2 The Last Ones To Arrive
13.3 The Twenty-One Wizards
13.4 A Fearless Smile
13.5 The Curse of Words
13.6 Your Own Name
13.7 Repairing the Tower
13.8 Injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >
13.1 The Northern Wizards
(Rumbling)
Akira: ............!?
Central Country noblewoman: Eep......!
Rustica: Oh no. Are you all right, my lady?
Drummond: M-Mithra of the North......! He’s savage and brutal, and his magical power is second only to Oz’s......!
C-could he have heard us just now — is he coming for us in a fit of anger?
Nicholas: Th-that can’t be......
(Thud)
Vincent: ......Secure the castle perimeters!
Central Country nobleman: Eek......! The Northern wizards are going to kill us all......!
Snow: Shylock, Murr. If Mithra starts a rampage, do you think you could stop him?
Shylock: Of course not.
Murr: No way.
White: Thank you for your immediate response.
Shylock & Murr: You're welcome.
Cain: Should we get Faust? But I guess he might just side with Mithra....
Figaro: No, he's actually quite a softie, so I don't think he'll harm any innocent civilians....
Shino: Sounds like fun. I'll take him on.
Heathcliff: Don’t be an idiot! Stand back!
Shino: Did you just call me an idiot?
Heathcliff: ....You can only be so bold because you don't actually know Mithra.....
Shino: ........
Heathcliff: ....What should we do.... Sir Oz is the only one who can defeat him......
Rutile: ....Mithra....?
Could he be.... Uncle Mithra....?
Arthur: Uncle, watch out! Behind you!
Vincent: .............!
At Arthur’s voice, everyone turns to look behind Vincent.
A giant, glowing door mysteriously materializes into the space where there had only been a wall.
(Creak)
The door swings open, pale light spilling from the cracks.
Akira: ..............
Arthur: This is.......
Arthur moves to shield Mister Vincent, narrowing his eyes against the bright light emanating from the door.
Something blows into the room through the open door.
— It’s a blizzard.
Akira: ............!
When my eyes grow used to the brightness, I see him.
A young man, leaning wordlessly against the door, silvery flakes of fine snow falling onto his shoulders.
Exuding an air of striking sensuality, he is too handsome a man to call a beast.
Mithra: Hello.
I'm the Northern wizard, Mithra. Though I suppose I am an uninvited guest.
Excuse me.
With an easy languor to his movements, he pushes his tall, slender figure off the doorframe and walks forward.
Snow, White, Shylock, and even Figaro look nervous.
And then the looks on their faces turn to despair.
Because Mithra isn’t the only figure to emerge from the door.
Snow: ....Owen....
White: So you came too.....
Owen: .......
Haha.......
The young man, as lifeless as a corpse, smiles faintly.
The moment I set my eyes on him, my skin prickles with goosebumps.
The depths of his smiling eyes hold no trace of human emotion.
They emit only a cold, terrifying light.
But I am familiar with the colors of his eyes.
Owen: How rude. Is nobody going to welcome me?
I'm the Northern wizard Owen.
Nice to meet you.
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13.2 The Last Ones To Arrive
Owen's footsteps echo quietly as he cuts his way across the room.
Everyone stares at their feet in cold despair; nobody wants to make eye contact with him.
With the exception of one person.
Cain: Owen....!
Owen: ...Oh my, Sir Knight.
It suits you quite well — my eyeball, that is.
Akira: (That's right....)
(Owen is the one who stole Cain's eye.....)
Cain: So you're the only person I can see..... This is some cruel irony.
Owen: Fufu... What are you talking about?
Owen smiles sardonically, turning to look back at the door.
The person who steps out next is someone I’ve met before.
Bradley: Tch....
Northern wizard, Bradley.
Akira: ......Bradley......!
It’s Bradley, who suddenly disappeared the other night.
Someone told me that he was a prisoner.
Bradley: Just when I thought I could finally kick back and get away from it all... I had to get dragged back into this fucking mess.
Bradley brushes the snow off himself and strides forward into the room.
At the sight of Bradley’s figure, one person stands rooted to the spot in bewilderment.
Nero: ............
Bradley: Hey, Nero. It sure has been a while.
Did you have fun going clean and washing your hands of the bandit gang while I was stuck in jail?
Riquet: .......Bandit gang......?
Nero: ......This has nothing to do with you.
Bradley: Ahaha! That crest!
So you were chosen too, Nero!
Nero: ...............
The sudden arrival of the three Northern wizards...
Sinks the atmosphere of the magnificent ballroom into terror and despair.
A clear demonstration of the overwhelming power they wield.
Mithra. Owen. Bradley.
If they put their minds to it, they could easily take this castle for themselves.
Even Mister Vincent doesn’t dare move a muscle.
Yet they show no signs of attacking.
They simply turn towards the strange door behind them, looking annoyed.
As if waiting for someone.
(Footsteps)
The last person to step out of the door is......
Oz: ..........
Akira: ....Oz.....
Arthur: ......Sir Oz......!
—Oz, holding his mysterious staff in one hand.
The strange door waits for Oz to cross its threshold before easing shut with a solemn thud.
Then it vanishes, as if a mere illusion, leaving behind only a light dusting of snow.
Everyone stares at Oz in sheer disbelief.
Oz doesn’t say anything.
Akira: (Oz...... Did he.......)
(Did he hear us out......?)
(That’s why he forced the Northern wizards into submission and brought them here......)
Oz: I’m the Central wizard, Oz.
Now all of the Sage’s wizards have assembled.
Younger brother of the King of Central. If you are still dissatisfied, speak your mind now.
Vincent: .............
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13.3 The Twenty-One Wizards
Faced with Oz’s glare, Mister Vincent looks away, like he’s trying to escape.
Vincent: ......I extend a sincere welcome.
Everyone in the ballroom breathes a sigh of relief at the reply bitterly wrung out of Mister Vincent’s throat.
Murr smiles and raises his glass.
Murr: Alright then, let the party go on!
✦✧☾✧✦
The cheering continues, and the party vigorously swings back to life.
(Footsteps)
Arthur runs up to Oz’s side, a smile stretched over his face.
Arthur: Sir Oz! Thank you very much!
Oz: ........
He looks at Arthur without saying a word and then curtly averts his eyes.
Oz: There is no reason for you to thank me.
Arthur: ...Ah.... Yes, I am aware. But you made everyone so happy.
Oz: ........
Sage.
Oz says, looking at me.
Oz: I've fulfilled my duty.
And then, just like that—
For the first time, all of the wizards of the magic headquarters have gathered together.
✦✧☾✧✦
Some tension still lingers in the air, but everyone seems to be enjoying the party.
I observe Mithra.
His tall, slender figure makes for an attractive sight; his cool gaze would probably cause riots amongst girls.
Akira: (He has such a polite manner that I can’t really see what makes him a "beast," but......)
Just as the thought enters my mind, Mithra reaches forward with long fingers that look like they belong to an artist, and grabs a piece of meat.
Akira: ............!
Mithra: ......Chomp.......
And then he bites into it, gnawing and tearing off huge chunks.
Mithra chews away without sparing a thought for his handsome face, his fingers and lips sticky with grease.
Akira: (......He has such a pretty face, but......)
Snow: Glad you came, Mithra. I was worried that the gates of hell would burst open.
Mithra: Oz dragged me here by force......
Mithra showcases his lack of manners by licking his fingers and narrowing his eyes in resentment.
His behavior is vulgar and wild, but there is a languid attractiveness to him.
Mithra: I really will kill him one day.
White: Now, now. Thanks to him, you get to eat this delicious food.
Mithra: It’s all the same once it ends up in your stomach.
Snow: Oh, that's right. Let me introduce the sage.
I wince when Snow and White direct the conversation to me.
Mithra looks over at me nonchalantly.
Akira: Ah...... I’m the Sage, Akira. Nice to meet you.
Mithra: Yeah. Hello......
Mithra greets me offhandedly, then suddenly brings his face close to mine.
He sniffs around the nape of my neck, and steps back like nothing happened.
Mithra: I see.....
Akira: (W-what was that.......!?)
Mithra: By the way, why was I called here? Are you sure I don’t have to defeat anything or kill anyone?
Snow: You certainly are hot-blooded. The Sage will assign you a role — try asking him.
Akira: Eh!?
I flounder as the topic swings back to me. Mithra sinks his teeth into the meat, tilting his head to one side.
Mithra: What should I do?
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13.4 A Fearless Smile
Mithra: What should I do?
Akira: Um... For today, please have an enjoyable night with the other wizards and the people of Central.
Mithra: ...... That's it?
Akira: Th...... That's it.
Mithra gazes at me for a moment, then breaks into an amused smile.
Mithra: Ahaha.
He smiles, as carefree as a child.
I’m mesmerized by this unexpected expression.
Mithra shakes his head cheerfully.
Mithra: Oh, most certainly. Oz should have just said that from the start.
Akira: Wh...... What did Oz tell you?
Mithra: He said, "Obey me." Naturally, we ended up trying to kill each other. He really infuriates me.
Mithra lifts a hand, still sticky with grease, to sweep his long fringe aside.
I reflexively grab a napkin and stuff it into his hand.
Mithra blinks at me with a confused look on his face.
Akira: Um, you’ll get grease in your hair if you do that, so I think you should wipe your hands first.
Mithra: What's wrong with that?
Akira: I... I mean, if you're okay with it...
Mithra: Okay... I'll try using it, then.
Mithra wipes his fingers with the napkin, still looking slightly mystified. When I point to his lips, he uses the napkin to wipe his mouth as well.
For some reason, the twins look deeply moved.
Snow: I never thought I would witness Mithra wiping his mouth with a napkin....
White: You really do live to see all sorts of wonders....
Mithra looks like he’d be suited for an elegant dinner at a high-class restaurant, yet he’s incredibly informal when it comes to a lot of things.
As soon as he wipes his hands, he grabs an ornamental apple and bites into it.
Mithra: Well then, I'll take a walk around. I just have to be nice to the people who speak to me, right?
Snow: I don't think anyone will try to speak to you... You should try speaking to them instead.
Mithra: Okay...... What should I say?
White: You could say, "Hello"?
Snow: Or something like, "It's lovely weather"?
Mithra laughs wryly with a shake of his shoulders.
Mithra: I understand. Humans certainly take it into their minds to do foolish things.
Snow: Don't kill them.
White: You must not kill them.
Mithra: Well, I'll try my best.
Mithra strolls off, and the twins watch his back before turning to me.
Snow: We’re a little worried, so we’ll go follow him.
White: Sage, take your time and enjoy yourself too.
Akira: Yes, I understand.
I nod, seeing them off.
I feel a brief sense of relief; I was terrified of Mithra, but I managed to speak to him normally.
At this rate, maybe I can have a conversation with Owen, too.
With that thought in mind, I look around the room. My eyes land on Owen immediately.
—He, too, is looking right at me.
With a smile on his face.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next moment, I find myself on the balcony.
Akira: Huh......!?
Owen: Hey.
Akira: Owen...... We were inside just a moment ago.....
Owen: I called you here.
Akira: You did....?
Owen: I have no friends, so I wanted you to speak to me. Sir Sage.
I gaze at Owen incredulously, because I’ve heard so many scary rumours about him.
Owen smiles sadly.
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13.5 The Curse of Words
Owen: That look on your face... It’s fine. I’m used to it. Was I a bother? I’ll send you back inside.
Akira: Ah... I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to.....
I’m taken aback by how lonely Owen looks.
But now that I think about it — all my knowledge of him comes from rumors.
I don’t know the real Owen.
Akira: Let’s talk, Owen. I wanted to speak with you too.
Owen: Talk about what?
Akira: Um.... I’d love to know what kind of person you are, Owen.
We will probably be seeing a lot of each other from here on out, so I want to get along....
Owen: Ahaha.....
Owen smiles faintly.
The setting sun burns behind him.
Beautifully ominous purple clouds drift across the sky.
Owen: I want to talk about myself too. But I don’t know much about myself.
Akira: Huh....?
Owen: But I do know about you — you, the Sage who is all alone.
His eyes — the same color as Cain’s — glint with amusement.
And as I stare into those eyes, I’m overcome by a sudden surge of loneliness.
Owen: Want me to tell you?
Akira: About what....?
Owen: About yourself.
What people think of you.
What will make people laugh at you.
What will make people loathe you.
What will make people praise you.
Did the parade make you feel good? Did the party make you happy? Those are mere tricks made to fool children.
The wizards and the people you met in this world — they don't actually care about you at all.
If you act like a sage, they're willing to speak to you, but the moment you forget your duty, they will shower you with criticism.
Because nobody has business with you unless you're the Sage — and you must feel the same way too.
Akira: ...What are you saying...?
Owen: When you think about yourself, don't you get extremely....
Anxious?
Don't you feel so lonely?
Akira: .......
I take a step back, suddenly terrified.
Owen steps closer, still smiling.
Owen: Why are you running away? I'm talking about you.
Do you hate yourself so much that you want to run away?
Is your true self someone you’d rather avert your eyes from?
The glow of the red and purple sunset blurs in the light.
Owen laughs, narrowing his eyes of different colors.
As I stagger, he offers me a hand.
Owen: Hey.... Let's talk about you.
Come on, don't run away. Pity me; don't abandon me.
Please guide me, Sir Sage.
Oz: —Owen.
Owen: ..........
That’s when I realize that Oz has appeared on the balcony with us.
Owen purses his lips as if he’s lost interest.
Owen: What is it? Can’t you see we’re busy talking?
Oz: Stay away from the Sage.
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13.6 Your Own Name
Oz: Stay away from the Sage.
Owen: Oh? But you were the one who brought me here?
Oz replies, unmoved by Owen’s sneering.
Oz: I did.
Owen: ......Hmph.
Owen glares sulkily at Oz.
And then he slides away from me.
As his form begins to vanish like smoke, he flashes a wicked smile at Oz.
Owen: No use pretending you're a good boy, Oz.
I know who you really are — you're the king of demons, scarier than the < Great Catastrophe > itself.
Oz: Do you want me to kill you again, Owen?
Owen: Fufu...... Ahaha......
Owen disappears, leaving behind only his laughter.
Akira: ....Ah....
Oz: Do not worry. He's probably somewhere near.
I let out a sigh of relief.
I was afraid I’d chased him off after Oz went through the trouble of bringing him here.
The evening breeze sends lavender clouds drifting across the sky.
Akira: ......What did you mean when you said, "want me to kill you again"......?
Oz: Owen has hidden his soul. That is why, no matter how many times he dies, he will always come back to life. What did you talk about with Owen?
Akira: ......Nothing much......
Oz: Do not listen to Owen's words. They will eat away at your soul.
Akira: ............
Oz: Did he curse you?
Akira: No...... He simply asked me about myself.
Oz: That is the curse. To speak of yourself to someone you have not opened your heart to — anyone would find that a painful burden to bear.
I feel a sense of relief at Oz’s words.
Because when I was talking to Owen, some part of me couldn’t resist the uncertainty, hopelessness, and guilt.
Oz: ......
Oz looks at me intently, like he has something to say.
After a while, he turns his gaze towards the twilight sky.
Oz: What is your name?
Akira: Ah...... My name is Akira.
Oz: Akira.
Oz says my name carefully.
Oz: Do not forget your name. The greater your duty, the more easily you come to forget your name.
The king, the doctor, the knight, the mother, the child. The Sage. The Northern wizards.
Crushed by the weight of the titles forced upon them, they cease to be beings with names, and lose their true selves.
I, too, have already forgotten the previous sage's name....
Akira: Oz......
Oz: But you still have your own name. Do not forget it, and do not let anyone else forget it.
I feel the weight carried in those words.
I nod solemnly, and ask Oz.
Akira: ......Are you also thinking about Arthur, who is a wizard, and the Prince of Central?
Oz: ............
Oz looks stunned.
He seems terribly irritated, but he also looks slightly embarrassed.
Oz: .....What are you talking about?
Akira: You were the one who raised Arthur, right?
Oz: Don’t be foolish.
Oz abruptly turns his face to the side.
Oz: That child possessed powerful magic. I simply picked him up to gather his stone.
Akira: Really....?
Oz: That's right. And now he has returned to his parents. ......That is all there is to it.
Akira: But.....
Oz: Do not concern yourself with others. Take care that you do not forget my warning.
If you get tired of being the Sage, you may cast aside your role. Even if you do, you will still be yourself.
Do not blindly follow your role. For even if you try to abandon it, it will still follow you.
Do not let trivial curses sway your heart.
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13.7 Repairing the Tower
Though Oz speaks with a strict tone, I can tell it’s his way of encouraging and comforting me.
I laugh and nod.
Akira: I understand, Oz. Thank you.
Oz furrows his brows, turning his face away; he says the same thing he said to Arthur earlier.
Oz: There is no reason for you to thank me.
He looks scary, but I think Oz must be a kind person.
He reminds me of the boss of the neighborhood cats, who was proud and splendid, with chubby legs. He never got attached to humans, but he was always kind to the mother cats and their kittens.
I suppress my laughter at the image, and Oz looks at me with a puzzled face.
Oz: What is it......?
(Door opens)
Vincent: Sir Sage, Oz. So this is where you were.
Akira: You’re Arthur’s uncle......
Oz: .............
Vincent: I apologize for Nicholas’ behavior earlier. I have a favor I’d like to ask of you two.
Akira: A favor......?
Vincent: Look to the north. There’s a collapsed tower.
Akira: Ah....... That’s the huge tower I saw when I arrived in this world......
Vincent: The tower is a symbol of Central Country, but it collapsed in an earthquake this morning.
Akira: There was an earthquake?
Vincent: It seems to have been a highly localized earthquake. There were no other damages, except for the tower and the gate nearby, which has been all but destroyed.
Under normal circumstances, we would repair it ourselves. But the people fear that it is a harbinger of further misfortune to come.
Could you repair it with magic? I’m sure it would go a long way towards reassuring the people if they could witness such an incredible feat with their own eyes.
I’ve tried asking Arthur, but it proved to be beyond him. But I’m sure it’s perfectly possible for one such as the legendary wizard Oz.
Oz: .............
Oz doesn’t say anything. Perhaps he’s displeased by Vincent’s high-handed way of speaking.
But if he can restore such an important symbol, surely it would improve the reputation of wizards in the people’s eyes.
I tentatively observe Oz’s expression.
Akira: Oz...... I’m asking this of you as well. Could you please repair the tower?
Oz: .......If that is your wish, Sage.
Vincent: You have my thanks. Well then, I’ll show you to the tower tomorrow......
Oz: I can do it from here.
Oz murmurs with exasperation, his staff already in hand.
Vincent: Right here...? You mean you're going to repair it right now...?
Oz: Do you have any objections?
Vincent: ......No......
Without my realizing, the sky has turned a deep shade of cerulean blue.
The outline of the < Great Catastrophe > is faintly visible in the sky.
I suddenly recall the bizarre injuries that the < Great Catastrophe > inflicted on the wizards.
Snow and White turn into a portrait at nightfall, and Cain cannot see anyone until he touches them. Shylock’s heart will suddenly burst into flames.
Have Oz and the Northern wizards also been inflicted with injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >?
(Footsteps)
Mithra: What are you doing?
Akira: Mithra....
Arthur: Sir Oz... Sir Oz, are you going to repair the Central tower for us?
Akira: And Arthur...... Yes, that's right.
Mithra: Interesting. Let me watch.
Oz: Do not speak with food in your mouth.
Mithra: This thing is really hard, you know?
Arthur: Mithra. You don't have to eat the shells. Please spit them out.
Mithra: Why? Do you want them? If you do, then it makes me want to eat them all the more.
Arthur: Is that so......? I hope scallop shells aren’t bad for your teeth......
Mithra: They’re tasting more and more like biscuits.
Oz: Silence, both of you.
Arthur: S-sorry!
Mithra: Wahhh, wahhhhh, waaaaaaaaah.
Arthur shrinks back at Oz’s reproach, while Mithra lets loose a stream of taunting jeers.
Taking a deep breath, Oz raises his staff towards the sky.
And solemnly recites his spell.
Oz: << Vox...... >>
But before he can get to the end of his spell, Oz’s eyelids slowly close, and......
His entire body leans over onto me.
The next moment, Oz has fallen asleep.
Oz: Zz......
Akira: O-Oz!?
Arthur: Sir Oz!?
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13.8 Injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >
Oz: Zz......
Akira: P-please don't fall asleep! Plea...... He's really heavy!
Mithra: What is he doing?
Arthur: Sir Oz, Sir Oz! Please pull yourself together!
Oz: ........
Arthur shakes Oz’s body, and Oz opens his eyes.
He gazes at Arthur before surveying the area around him.
Oz: Where am I......
Right, the Central castle. I was asked to repair the Central tower. By that youth who was all bark and didn't wish to lift a finger himself.
Vincent: .......Are you talking about me?
Oz: I didn’t realize you were here. No matter.
<< Vox...... >>
Zz.......
Arthur: Sir Oz....!
Akira: Oz......! Don't fall asleep......!
Mithra: Ahahaha! I'll push him off the balcony while I can!
Arthur: Don't be so rude! Sir Oz, Sir Oz! Are you all right?
Oz: ...... Where am I.....
Right, the Central castle. I was asked to repair the Central tower.
Arthur: Sir Oz, you said that just......
Oz: Well, no matter. I’ll get this done in a second.
<< Vox...... >>
Zz.......
Arthur: Sir Oz......!!
Mithra: Ahahaha! This is the third time!
Arthur: ......Don't laugh at Sir Oz! There must be a reason for this!
Akira: It might be his injury from the < Great Catastrophe >!
Everyone who fought the < Great Catastrophe > is suffering from a bizarre injury. Mithra, are you all right?
Mithra: ......Because of the < Great Catastrophe >......?
Oz: ...... Where am I.....
Arthur: Sir Oz...... This is the Central castle. You were asked to repair the Central tower with magic, but......
Because of the < Great Catastrophe >, it looks like you fall asleep every time you try to use magic.
Oz: ......... .......Don’t be ridiculous......
That cannot be. I was able to use magic against Mithra and Owen.
Mithra: That's right. You nearly killed me.
Arthur: Then, why......
Owen: Maybe he can't use it at night?
Akira: Owen......
Oz: Owen, what is that portrait you’re carrying? ...... Is that Snow and White......?
Owen: These two got trapped inside a frame the moment the sun went down.
Snow in the portrait: Owen, be a good boy.
White in the portrait: You must treat us with care.
Owen: Can I throw you off the balcony to see if you can fly while you're stuck in the frame?
Snow & White in the portrait: No no no no no no no!
Owen: There we go~.
(Whistling sound through the air)
Snow & White in the portrait: Eeeeeeeeek~!
Arthur: Sir Snow! Sir White!
Owen tosses the portrait of Snow and White from the balcony.
Akira: W-will they be all right!?
Oz: I can sense their magic. They should be fine.
Owen: Mithra.
Mithra: What is it?
Owen: You should cast away Oz just like that.
Mithra: ........
Mithra blinks repeatedly, looking at Oz’s bitter expression.
Owen: You can beat Oz for sure right now. If you kill him, you won’t have to obey him anymore.
Mithra: That’s true.
Oz: Mithra......
Mithra: There’s no way I could lose to you if you can’t use magic. I never thought the < Great Catastrophe > would leave me such a blessing......
Oz: ......
Mithra: Oz. I'm going to pay you back for all these years.
Akira: Mithra! Wait......
Arthur: Wait!
In a moment, Arthur steps out in front of Oz, both arms spread wide as if he’s protecting him.
Oz’s eyes widen.
Arthur: I won't let you lay a finger on Sir Oz. If you intend to fight, I will be your opponent.
Mithra: Huh.....
Oz: Move, Arthur!
Arthur: I refuse!
Oz: You do not stand a chance against him!
Arthur: Even so!
Oz: .......
Arthur: I...... I will protect you, Sir Oz. Just as you protected me from avalanches and wolves when I was little!
I will definitely protect you!
Mithra: Interesting.
I’ll be your opponent.
Oz: Stop, Mithra!
Akira: Arthur, Mithra....!
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Chapter 12 << | index | >> Chapter 14