healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-07-05 02:23 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-07-05 02:23 pm
Main Story | Chapter 17 | Wicked Wizards
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Chapter 16 << | index | >> Chapter 18
Chapter 17: Wicked Wizards
17.1 The Enemy of Humans and Wizards
17.2 A Terrible Rumor
17.3 Trust in Shambles
17.4 The Torn Scarf
17.5 Rustica’s Wish
17.6 Reason to Lie
17.7 Owen’s Wound
17.8 The Punishment He Faced
17.1 The Enemy of Humans and Wizards
Drummond: I’m so glad you’re safe, Cock Robin......! What in the world happened to you?
Akira: He was trapped inside the Lunar Eclipse Palace. But the wizards managed to rescue him!
Drummond: I see.... Good lord, don't be so reckless.....
Um, ahem...... Sir Sage, I truly apologize for all the trouble my unworthy subordinate has caused.....
Akira: Not at all. Thanks to Mister Cock Robin, we managed to uncover a terrible secret.
Drummond: What do you mean......?
Cock Robin: There's some crazy people out there who tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe >!
Drummond: W-what!?
Cock Robin: There were tons of bones, and a weird magic circle, and to top it off, equipment from our very own Magical Technology Corps!
Drummond: From the Magical Technology Corps!? What do you mean!?
Shylock: We too would like to uncover the truth. Who from the Magical Technology Corps was involved in this ritual — and how?
For if that individual was the reason we lost ten of our comrades, and the reason that the whole world was consumed in chaos....
They are the common enemy of humans and wizards.
Drummond: Yes, you're right.... This is probably a situation where the Ministry of Magical Affairs and the Sage's wizards ought to work together......
Shylock: I'm glad you seem to understand. So, where is that man who always seems to be so full of himself? The head of the Magical Technology Corps...
Drummond: Nicholas is.....
Lady: Aaaaaaaah!
At that moment, a scream breaks out.
Chloe leaps to the window and points to the one of the castle’s balconies, shouting.
Chloe: Look, over there!
Rustica: That's the captain of the Magical Technology Corps......!?
Drummond: Sir Nicholas......!
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......!
I look out the window, immediately stunned speechless.
Mister Nicholas, the captain of the Magical Technology Corps, is leaning right over the castle balcony.
He staggers unsteadily atop the balcony, with no trace of his strange wings or flying equipment.
✦✧☾✧✦
Drummond: Sir Nicholas! What are you doing!? It's dangerous, Sir Nicholas!
Nicholas gradually tilts forwards.
Chloe: Watch out....!
Chloe exclaims, as he leaps onto his broom and flies out the window.
✦✧☾✧✦
Nicholas: .....
But before anyone can stop him, Nicholas throws himself off the balcony.
Lady: Eeeeeeeeek!!
Sir Nicholas!
Chloe: Ah.....!
Mister Nicholas plummets to the ground before Chloe’s hands can reach him.
His body slams against the ground with great force.
—Or so we think. But a clear voice rings out from the ground below.
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17.2 A Terrible Rumor
Arthur: << Pernoctant Nixzo >>!
Right before Mister Nicholas crashes to the ground, his body stops in midair, and gently floats to the ground.
He loses consciousness and collapses, and Arthur, who stopped his fall with magic, rushes to his side.
Arthur: Nicholas! Nicholas, are you all right!?
Chloe: Ah, I’m glad he’s safe....! Thank you, Prince Arthur!
Arthur: No, thank you! What in the world happened to Nicholas!?
✦✧☾✧✦
At Arthur’s words, I look up towards the balcony.
I see someone standing on the same balcony that Mister Nicholas threw himself from moments earlier.
I know that person.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: ......
It's Owen.
I can hear the commotion from the crowd on the ground.
Man: What in the world happened!?
Lady: Sir Nicholas leapt off the balcony......
Man: Sir Nicholas would never do such a thing!
Man: ......! Look at that!
It's the Northern wizard, Owen!
Man: He tried to manipulate Sir Nicholas into committing suicide!
Owen remains silent, staring down at the ground.
His face is completely expressionless.
Only when he notices the people pointing at him does he break into a faint, cold smile.
Owen: ............ Haha........
That’s right. It's just as you desire.
Every last misfortune that befalls you is my doing.
Showered in a volley of angry roars and insults from the ground, Owen slowly turns away.
And he disappears into the castle.
✦✧☾✧✦
A few hours later, the castle has descended into panic.
Castle person: I hear that the Sage's wizards nearly killed Sir Nicholas......!
Castle person: What!? Why would they do such a thing....?
Castle person: It's the Northern wizards! They're all wicked wizards! They see humans as nothing but slaves!
Castle person: I heard this from a friend: the wreckage caused by the < Great Catastrophe > was so devastating because the Northern wizards were so wicked!
Castle person: Listen to what I heard from my friend's acquaintance — he said the Sage's wizards are all manipulating Prince Arthur!
Castle person: But they’re the ones who fought to protect the world.....
Castle person: You should never trust a wizard! You're young and beautiful, so they'll manipulate your heart and do whatever they please to you!
Castle person: How terrifying.....
Castle person: They’re scary.....
Castle person: I'm scared...... I want them to leave the castle right now......
✦✧☾✧✦
Vincent: The Northern wizard tried to manipulate Nicholas into throwing himself off the balcony?
Drummond: Th-there’s still no proof, but...... Lord Vincent, leaving that aside, there’s another matter of great importance.
Someone tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe >, and there’s a possibility that they’re connected to our Magical Technology Corps!
The Ministry of Magical Affairs needs to work with the Sage’s wizards to investigate the matter at once......
Vincent: Work with the men who nearly killed Nicholas? How preposterous!
Drive the Sage’s wizards out of the castle and send them back to the magic headquarters immediately.
Drummond: But we've yet to perform the inauguration ceremony......
Vincent: There’s no need to hold an inauguration ceremony for traitors. I’ll need to give Arthur a severe talking-to as well.
Drummond: Please wait, Lord Vincent!
Finding out who tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe>, handling the mysterious incidents happening across the capital — we absolutely need the cooperation of the Sage’s wizards to accomplish all these tasks!
Vincent: The Magical Technology Corps can handle it.
Drummond: .....But.....
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17.3 Trust in Shambles
Figaro: Owen killed the captain of the Magical Technology Corps?
Akira: H-he didn't kill him. Mister Nicholas is still alive. But he hasn’t regained consciousness yet......
Figaro: So he's alive? But would Owen really fail if he wanted to kill someone like that?
Snow: Perhaps he never intended to kill him. Even if that were the case, Owen still enjoys tearing away at people's hearts, so....
White: Perhaps Owen was simply having a fun time chatting, and Nicholas felt pressed into jumping off the balcony because of it.
That can’t be true... I try to say, but I can’t finish my sentence. Because the memory of my conversation with Owen comes rushing back.
I was engulfed with a mysterious sense of unease through a simple exchange of words.
Cain: Dammit, Owen, look what you’ve done.... Everyone's going to be even more suspicious of wizards now.
The Western wizards told me about the remnants of the ritual in the Lunar Eclipse Palace. We need to figure out what's going on there as soon as possible, and yet......
Snow: What happened at the Lunar Eclipse Palace?
Akira: Well......
Cain: ......Wait. Something's going on outside.
White: Is that Mitile’s voice......? He seems to be arguing with someone.
Figaro: ........ Let's check it out.
✦✧☾✧✦
Soldier: Your comrade tried to kill Sir Nicholas!
Soldier: Just because the Magical Technology Corps threatened your status as heroes......! What unbelievable cruelty!
Mitile: We don't know anything about that! Owen is a Northern wizard, right!? The Southern wizards have nothing to do with.....
Soldier: All wizards are the same! Get out of this castle! Stop taking advantage of Prince Arthur!
Mitile: But we were invited here as guests!?
Rutile: Stop it, Mitile. The soldiers are just afraid.
Mitile: But we didn’t do anything wrong....!
Rutile: Even so...... ....gh.
Soldier: What are you muttering on about!? Get out of the castle right now!
Mitile: Stop it! Don't hurt my brother......!
Lennox: Let go of him.
Soldier: Who are you!?
Rutile: ....Mister Leno.........
Lennox: I'm a Southern wizard. But I can knock you out in three seconds without using any magic.
And I can take your life in five seconds. What will you do?
Soldier: .....Tch.... So the wizards hired a mercenary......
Lennox: I'm a shepherd.
Soldier: What the hell are you saying!? Let's go...... You need to grab your stuff and get out of here!
(Footsteps)
Lennox: ......... But it's true.......
Are you okay, Rutile?
Rutile: Yes.... Thank you, Mister Leno. Your grand entrances have been really cool lately.
Lennox: Really....?
Mitile: He pulled nii-sama's hair! These Central soldiers are worse than the dine-and-dashers we see in the South!
Rutile: They think we almost killed their comrade, you know.
Mitile: But that doesn't justify violence! You were the one who taught me that!
Rutile: You're right. You're a good boy, Mitile — thank you for getting angry in my stead.
But you need to remember that people consumed by fear will do anything.....
I didn't want you to get hurt; I also didn't want them to do anything terrible.
Mitile: You're too kind! They came to attack us because they think the Southern wizards are the weakest of them all!
They just stand there, petrified and scared, in front of Oz and the Northern wizards, but when it comes to us, they’re so stuck-up!
Rutile: ......Mitile......
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17.4 The Torn Scarf
Mitile: ......We’re always the ones who lose out! It's all Owen's fault! He's a Northern wizard too, right!?
The Northern wizards are the reason people hate all wizards....! I hate the Northern wizards....!
Figaro: Rutile, Mitile! Leno, too — are you all right?
Mitile: Dr. Figaro....! Waah.... It’s the Northern wizards’ fault that, nii-sama....
Figaro: What happened to Rutile?
Rutile: I'm fine. A soldier just grabbed me for a second......
Mitile: ......Dr. Figaro! Why are we the ones who have to suffer when the Northern wizards are the ones who did everything wrong!?
I hate the Northern wizards. And I hate the humans who can't say a word to the Northern wizards but take out their cruelty on us instead — I hate them even more!
Figaro: Mitile......
Mitile: Dr. Figaro, I'm sorry.... You told me that I shouldn't think like a dictator, but I... I don't care if I am one......
If I had my own country, I would kick out all the bad guys.... I would protect nii-sama, and everyone else.....
Lennox: ....I'm not necessarily agreeing with Mitile, but the castle is currently in chaos. It's dangerous for us to stay here.
Rutile: ....But the inauguration ceremony....
Figaro: If we stand on the balcony now, we’re going to be showered in abuse, not applause.
In times like these, humans are no different from bees. They'll sting away until the enemy has left their precious beehive.
They don't know why they're mad, or who they're attacking. They don't think about what's going to happen as a result of their violence; they become blind and unstoppable.
Rutile: ........
Figaro: Rutile, are you sure you're not hurt?
Rutile: My body is fine.... But my heart is in pain.
.....Conflict brings nothing but sadness.
✦✧☾✧✦
Rustica: Oh, there you are, Chloe.
Chloe: ..........
Rustica: I know very well how whimsical Westerners can be, but the people of Central are certainly prone to mood swings as well.
The person who said hello to me in the morning glared at me and ran away in the afternoon. I was a little bit surprised.
Chloe?
Chloe: Ah...... Rustica. Sorry, sorry. What was that?
Rustica: Did you hide something behind your back?
Chloe: No, not at all!
Rustica: Ahaha. So now you're trying to surprise me too, Chloe. What are you hiding? A bird? A butterfly?
Chloe: Ah......!
Rustica: Come on, show me.
Chloe: ............
Rustica: ....A torn scarf? Isn’t this the scarf you embroidered, Chloe?
This blue bird, right here. I remember you working on it, because I thought it was so lovely.
How did it get torn?
Chloe: ......Ah....
....I gave it. To someone I made friends with at the party.
Rustica: ............
Chloe: She said it was pretty, so I told her she could have it as a symbol of our friendship.
Then she was really, really happy! She said she'd show it off to her friends and family!
....But this morning....
She said she didn't want it, because a wizard's scarf was bound to have some horrendous curse on it....
She said, "You're trying to deceive me and curse me to death, right?" And she tore it and threw it to the ground....
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17.5 Rustica’s Wish
Rustica: Chloe....
Chloe: It's fine, it's fine! I'm not feeling down about it or anything! I'm used to this sort of thing, anyway!
.....But I'm an idiot, so I came up with all these ridiculous fantasies.
Like, maybe if I give her this scarf, she'll put it on the next day, and come to say hi to me.
Then I’d feel really ticklish inside, but I’d also be really happy, and say, it looks great on you....
Chloe: Maybe her friends and family would ask me to make them scarves too, and I'd get really busy......
.......I came up with so many of those stupid fantasies, like the ones that play through your mind right before you fall asleep.....
She was afraid it might be cursed.... Of course she was scared..... I'm such an idiot.....
Rustica: You're not an idiot.
Chloe: ...I am an idiot.....
Rustica: Your dream is absolutely lovely. If she doesn't want the scarf, can I have it instead?
Chloe: ....It's nothing valuable. Rustica, you're handsome, so you deserve to wear something much nicer.
Rustica: There's no scarf more valuable than this one.
Chloe: ....That's not true. I haven't used any expensive fabrics or threads....
Rustica: Because this scarf is the only one of its kind in this world. It's something that only you could make.
Chloe: ..........
Rustica: It's more precious than a commonplace luxury you could find anywhere. It’s more precious than the moonstone; more precious than any jewel.
Here, look. This scarf was created by my beloved Chloe. It's the only one in the world.
It has my favorite blue bird embroidered on it, too. It’s a bit torn, but that’s no cause for concern. For I have a friend who's very good at needlework.
Rustica: I'm sure he will fix it up perfectly. This blue bird will fly freely into the sky, no matter how many times its wings are torn.
Isn't that right, Chloe?
Chloe: ......Yeah......
I'll sew it back together, as many times as I have to..... .....Thank you, Rustica.
Rustica: And you have my thanks as well. Don't cry...... Please smile, Chloe.
Chloe: ........ .....Yes......
Rustica: Please don't feel hurt. Like the bright moon that shines in the sky, we may be shoved away every time we approach someone, but......
We can smile wherever we are. We can sing the songs we love, and dance with the people we love, wherever we are.
✦✧☾✧✦
Vincent: That damned Northern wizard Owen....... We never should have trusted the Northern wizards to begin with.
It looks like Nicholas narrowly escaped death, but the Sage’s wizards must leave the castle at once.
Naturally, the inauguration ceremony is cancelled.
Arthur: Please wait, Uncle Vincent......
Vincent: Leave the festivities to me; you should consider staying at the royal villa for a while.
Arthur: Huh......?
Vincent: There are awful rumors going around. They say that the reason Oz took you in was so he could take over Central Country.
Prince Arthur is already under Oz’s control, and will one day hand the kingdom over to him.
Arthur: That's ridiculous...... Sir Oz isn't that kind of person!
Vincent: What proof do you have!? You are the ones who have stirred up the citizens’ anxiety!
Until the situation calms down, you should confine yourself to the royal villa, and.......
Oz: ..........
Vincent: Oz...... Where did you come from......
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17.6 Reason to Lie
Arthur: Sir Oz......
Oz: If I so wished, I could conquer Central Country without controlling a child like him.
Would you like me to show you my power?
Vincent: ...... You scoundrel! Guards, capture Oz......!
Arthur: Uncle!
Central Country soldier: C-capture Oz......!? No one can do that........
Vincent: The sun is going to set soon. Oz won’t be able to use his magic!
Oz: Yet at this moment, I could turn this capital to ashes in an instant. I’ll start with you.
Arthur: Sir Oz, please stop! Your anger is justified, but....
Oz: Out of my way.
Arthur: ......You’re not serious.
Oz: .......
<< Vox Nox >>
Arthur: ............ << Pernoctant Nixzo >>!
Vincent: .......
Soldier: Th-thank goodness......! Prince Arthur protected him!
Just as I thought, Prince Arthur is on our side! He's not being manipulated by Oz!
Oz: ........
Arthur: Sir Oz....
Oz: You just narrowly escaped death.
Arthur: .....Please wait, Sir Oz! Sir Oz—.....
......He disappeared......
Vincent: Never let Oz into the castle again!! He’s a traitor who tried to kill me......!
Arthur: You're wrong! Sir Oz isn't that kind of man! ......Sir Oz is......
He acted that way in order to create a place for me in this castle......
Vincent: ...... Hmph...... I don't believe that. That was his true nature.
Guards! Find Owen — and Oz as well!
Arthur: ......Sir Oz...... Have you been avoiding me in order to protect my reputation......?
But I have yet to repay you for any of your kindness......
✦✧☾✧✦
Oz: ..........
......I haven't seen his face up close in so long.
............
.....You’ve grown taller......
✦✧☾✧✦
Arthur: ......Pardon me.
Akira: Arthur...... Are you all right? I heard Mister Vincent summoned you......
Arthur: ......He informed me that the Sage’s wizards are to leave the castle and return to the magic headquarters......
The inauguration ceremony is cancelled...... The Magical Technology Corps will handle the investigation into the mysterious incidents at the cemetery......
And depending on what Nicholas says when he wakes up, Owen might be thrown into prison...... The same goes for Sir Oz as well......
Arthur, who is usually so full of life, lifts his head robotically.
His clear eyes are saying, "I am so, so sorry."
My heart lurches at his apologetic gaze — it hurts even more than his sadness and frustration.
Arthur: ......I apologize; this is all because of me — it’s due to my incompetence and lack of power.......
I failed to repay both you and Sir Oz; the current situation is entirely my fault......
Akira: Please don’t make that face...... It’s not your fault, Arthur......
Arthur: ......But......
Akira: Let's hear what Owen has to say once we find him......
I’m sure that is part of my job as the Sage, so please — you don’t have to shoulder all the responsibility for what has happened.
I know that you treasure everyone here — that includes me, and the wizards, and the people in this castle.
Your feelings truly came across......
With an unaffected and straightforward sincerity, Arthur smiles ever-so-slightly through his tears.
Arthur: ......Thank you, Sir Sage. I am saved by your kindness......
I can't spend my time wallowing in regret. I'll apologize to everyone, hand over the investigation to the Magical Technology Corps, and prepare to leave the castle.
Akira: Yes. But please don't push yourself.
Arthur: I'm all right. I feel better after speaking to you, Sir Sage. See you later!
Akira: I’m counting on you.
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17.7 Owen’s Wound
I watch Arthur’s back as he retreats into the castle, and let out a deep sigh.
As I spin around, ready to get back to work, Owen appears right before my eyes without warning.
Akira: ......! Owen......!
Owen: ...........
I observe Owen carefully, holding one hand to my chest, my heart pounding.
Owen is not smiling. He appeared out of nowhere without saying a word, yet he's waiting for my reaction.
I can't read his expression — but he seems lost, or perhaps dissatisfied.
This is the first time I’ve seen him so close without an eerie grin on his face.
His pale red eye, cold as glass, yet strangely alive...... His skin, white as a porcelain doll......
Akira: (......He's got a pretty face too......)
(Do all wizards just have beautiful faces......?)
Owen: Hey.
Akira: Ah, yes. Ah......! I have something I’d like to ask you regarding Mister Nicholas.
Owen: Yeah, that’s what I thought, and I was waiting for you to say something, but you didn't utter a word. So I get to go first.
Akira: Please wait! I was just a little distracted by something else......
Owen: You were distracted? When I'm right in front of your eyes? All right, tell me about it.
I look at Owen, who is still wearing his thorny smile, and tell him honestly.
Since I figure it’s probably useless to lie to a wizard.
Akira: You're always grinning, so I never noticed till now, but..... You're very beautiful, Owen.
Owen: ................. Haha......
Owen falls silent for a moment, and then tries to grin.
But his attempt ends in failure, so he furrows his brows instead.
Owen: So what?
Akira: Sorry......
Owen: Well, whatever. There’s something I’d like to ask you about the < Great Catastrophe >.
Akira: The < Great Catastrophe >? But wait, tell me about Mister Nicholas......
Owen: Shut up. I’m first. You mentioned that bizarre injuries were inflicted upon us when we fought the < Great Catastrophe >, right?
Like, Oz falls asleep when he tries to use magic, and Snow and White are trapped inside a frame in the middle of the night.
Akira: Yes......
Owen: Can you lose your memories from that?
Akira: Lose your memories? Wait, Owen...... Have you lost your memories?
Owen: .........
His displeased expression sets off a chain of thoughts in my mind.
When I saw him on the balcony this morning, he was in a daze.
But in retrospect, that was a rather strange sight.
Because when he tried to drive me into a corner, and whenever he hurled insults at the people around him — Owen always donned a mocking smile.
Akira: .....You don't remember what happened when you were with Mister Nicholas?
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17.8 The Punishment He Faced
Owen glares at me with frightening displeasure.
Owen: You're wrong.
Akira: B-but......
Owen: I killed him. I manipulated his heart so that he would leap off the balcony.
Akira: But why......
Owen: Why? Because I wanted to see him crushed like a tomato, of course.
Owen puts on a cruel smile. He appears to be enjoying himself, but I get the feeling he’s forcing himself to put on a show.
I take a deep breath, and carefully try to persuade Owen.
Akira: Owen...... If you’ve lost your memories, then you can’t be the only one responsible here.
If you explain what happened, I’m sure everyone else will understand. Can you please tell me the truth?
Owen smiles gently.
Owen: I killed him. It was so much fun.
Akira: ......Owen......
Owen: Anyway, who cares about that? Tell me how to fix these bizarre injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >.
Can you heal them? Or are you useless?
The word "useless" strikes a nerve within me, and I snap back without thinking.
Akira: So you want me to heal your injury?
Owen: .............
Owen looks ready to kill.
I clamp my mouth shut. Terror wells up within me and I can no longer bear to look him in the eye.
Owen: I'm asking you if you can heal this injury.
Akira: I-if.... If you didn’t need me to fix it, you wouldn't be asking me for help.
Owen’s voice turns into a soft, coaxing purr, but his eyes alone remain unsmiling.
Owen: Hey, Sir Sage....... If I kill you, the world might end, but—.
There are plenty of punishments far worse than death. Want me to teach you some?
Akira: ......I’m aware of that. Because I've already subjected you to one such punishment.....
Owen: ......What?
Akira: I assumed that you might really have done it, so I blindly suspected you.
Owen: ..........
Akira: I'm sorry.
Owen is once again expressionless, just as he was when he stared down at the ground from the balcony.
I now understand the emotion that lay behind this face.
He was at a complete loss.
He didn’t know what to do until someone pointed a finger and yelled insults at him — the relief he felt then brought the grin back to his face.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: ............ Haha........
That’s right. It's just as you desire.
Every last misfortune that befalls you is my doing.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: .....Ridiculous.
Akira: Owen! Wait......!
Owen ignores me and vanishes like smoke.
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Chapter 16 << | index | >> Chapter 18
Chapter 16 << | index | >> Chapter 18
Chapter 17: Wicked Wizards
17.1 The Enemy of Humans and Wizards
17.2 A Terrible Rumor
17.3 Trust in Shambles
17.4 The Torn Scarf
17.5 Rustica’s Wish
17.6 Reason to Lie
17.7 Owen’s Wound
17.8 The Punishment He Faced
17.1 The Enemy of Humans and Wizards
Drummond: I’m so glad you’re safe, Cock Robin......! What in the world happened to you?
Akira: He was trapped inside the Lunar Eclipse Palace. But the wizards managed to rescue him!
Drummond: I see.... Good lord, don't be so reckless.....
Um, ahem...... Sir Sage, I truly apologize for all the trouble my unworthy subordinate has caused.....
Akira: Not at all. Thanks to Mister Cock Robin, we managed to uncover a terrible secret.
Drummond: What do you mean......?
Cock Robin: There's some crazy people out there who tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe >!
Drummond: W-what!?
Cock Robin: There were tons of bones, and a weird magic circle, and to top it off, equipment from our very own Magical Technology Corps!
Drummond: From the Magical Technology Corps!? What do you mean!?
Shylock: We too would like to uncover the truth. Who from the Magical Technology Corps was involved in this ritual — and how?
For if that individual was the reason we lost ten of our comrades, and the reason that the whole world was consumed in chaos....
They are the common enemy of humans and wizards.
Drummond: Yes, you're right.... This is probably a situation where the Ministry of Magical Affairs and the Sage's wizards ought to work together......
Shylock: I'm glad you seem to understand. So, where is that man who always seems to be so full of himself? The head of the Magical Technology Corps...
Drummond: Nicholas is.....
Lady: Aaaaaaaah!
At that moment, a scream breaks out.
Chloe leaps to the window and points to the one of the castle’s balconies, shouting.
Chloe: Look, over there!
Rustica: That's the captain of the Magical Technology Corps......!?
Drummond: Sir Nicholas......!
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......!
I look out the window, immediately stunned speechless.
Mister Nicholas, the captain of the Magical Technology Corps, is leaning right over the castle balcony.
He staggers unsteadily atop the balcony, with no trace of his strange wings or flying equipment.
✦✧☾✧✦
Drummond: Sir Nicholas! What are you doing!? It's dangerous, Sir Nicholas!
Nicholas gradually tilts forwards.
Chloe: Watch out....!
Chloe exclaims, as he leaps onto his broom and flies out the window.
✦✧☾✧✦
Nicholas: .....
But before anyone can stop him, Nicholas throws himself off the balcony.
Lady: Eeeeeeeeek!!
Sir Nicholas!
Chloe: Ah.....!
Mister Nicholas plummets to the ground before Chloe’s hands can reach him.
His body slams against the ground with great force.
—Or so we think. But a clear voice rings out from the ground below.
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17.2 A Terrible Rumor
Arthur: << Pernoctant Nixzo >>!
Right before Mister Nicholas crashes to the ground, his body stops in midair, and gently floats to the ground.
He loses consciousness and collapses, and Arthur, who stopped his fall with magic, rushes to his side.
Arthur: Nicholas! Nicholas, are you all right!?
Chloe: Ah, I’m glad he’s safe....! Thank you, Prince Arthur!
Arthur: No, thank you! What in the world happened to Nicholas!?
✦✧☾✧✦
At Arthur’s words, I look up towards the balcony.
I see someone standing on the same balcony that Mister Nicholas threw himself from moments earlier.
I know that person.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: ......
It's Owen.
I can hear the commotion from the crowd on the ground.
Man: What in the world happened!?
Lady: Sir Nicholas leapt off the balcony......
Man: Sir Nicholas would never do such a thing!
Man: ......! Look at that!
It's the Northern wizard, Owen!
Man: He tried to manipulate Sir Nicholas into committing suicide!
Owen remains silent, staring down at the ground.
His face is completely expressionless.
Only when he notices the people pointing at him does he break into a faint, cold smile.
Owen: ............ Haha........
That’s right. It's just as you desire.
Every last misfortune that befalls you is my doing.
Showered in a volley of angry roars and insults from the ground, Owen slowly turns away.
And he disappears into the castle.
✦✧☾✧✦
A few hours later, the castle has descended into panic.
Castle person: I hear that the Sage's wizards nearly killed Sir Nicholas......!
Castle person: What!? Why would they do such a thing....?
Castle person: It's the Northern wizards! They're all wicked wizards! They see humans as nothing but slaves!
Castle person: I heard this from a friend: the wreckage caused by the < Great Catastrophe > was so devastating because the Northern wizards were so wicked!
Castle person: Listen to what I heard from my friend's acquaintance — he said the Sage's wizards are all manipulating Prince Arthur!
Castle person: But they’re the ones who fought to protect the world.....
Castle person: You should never trust a wizard! You're young and beautiful, so they'll manipulate your heart and do whatever they please to you!
Castle person: How terrifying.....
Castle person: They’re scary.....
Castle person: I'm scared...... I want them to leave the castle right now......
✦✧☾✧✦
Vincent: The Northern wizard tried to manipulate Nicholas into throwing himself off the balcony?
Drummond: Th-there’s still no proof, but...... Lord Vincent, leaving that aside, there’s another matter of great importance.
Someone tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe >, and there’s a possibility that they’re connected to our Magical Technology Corps!
The Ministry of Magical Affairs needs to work with the Sage’s wizards to investigate the matter at once......
Vincent: Work with the men who nearly killed Nicholas? How preposterous!
Drive the Sage’s wizards out of the castle and send them back to the magic headquarters immediately.
Drummond: But we've yet to perform the inauguration ceremony......
Vincent: There’s no need to hold an inauguration ceremony for traitors. I’ll need to give Arthur a severe talking-to as well.
Drummond: Please wait, Lord Vincent!
Finding out who tried to summon the < Great Catastrophe>, handling the mysterious incidents happening across the capital — we absolutely need the cooperation of the Sage’s wizards to accomplish all these tasks!
Vincent: The Magical Technology Corps can handle it.
Drummond: .....But.....
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17.3 Trust in Shambles
Figaro: Owen killed the captain of the Magical Technology Corps?
Akira: H-he didn't kill him. Mister Nicholas is still alive. But he hasn’t regained consciousness yet......
Figaro: So he's alive? But would Owen really fail if he wanted to kill someone like that?
Snow: Perhaps he never intended to kill him. Even if that were the case, Owen still enjoys tearing away at people's hearts, so....
White: Perhaps Owen was simply having a fun time chatting, and Nicholas felt pressed into jumping off the balcony because of it.
That can’t be true... I try to say, but I can’t finish my sentence. Because the memory of my conversation with Owen comes rushing back.
I was engulfed with a mysterious sense of unease through a simple exchange of words.
Cain: Dammit, Owen, look what you’ve done.... Everyone's going to be even more suspicious of wizards now.
The Western wizards told me about the remnants of the ritual in the Lunar Eclipse Palace. We need to figure out what's going on there as soon as possible, and yet......
Snow: What happened at the Lunar Eclipse Palace?
Akira: Well......
Cain: ......Wait. Something's going on outside.
White: Is that Mitile’s voice......? He seems to be arguing with someone.
Figaro: ........ Let's check it out.
✦✧☾✧✦
Soldier: Your comrade tried to kill Sir Nicholas!
Soldier: Just because the Magical Technology Corps threatened your status as heroes......! What unbelievable cruelty!
Mitile: We don't know anything about that! Owen is a Northern wizard, right!? The Southern wizards have nothing to do with.....
Soldier: All wizards are the same! Get out of this castle! Stop taking advantage of Prince Arthur!
Mitile: But we were invited here as guests!?
Rutile: Stop it, Mitile. The soldiers are just afraid.
Mitile: But we didn’t do anything wrong....!
Rutile: Even so...... ....gh.
Soldier: What are you muttering on about!? Get out of the castle right now!
Mitile: Stop it! Don't hurt my brother......!
Lennox: Let go of him.
Soldier: Who are you!?
Rutile: ....Mister Leno.........
Lennox: I'm a Southern wizard. But I can knock you out in three seconds without using any magic.
And I can take your life in five seconds. What will you do?
Soldier: .....Tch.... So the wizards hired a mercenary......
Lennox: I'm a shepherd.
Soldier: What the hell are you saying!? Let's go...... You need to grab your stuff and get out of here!
(Footsteps)
Lennox: ......... But it's true.......
Are you okay, Rutile?
Rutile: Yes.... Thank you, Mister Leno. Your grand entrances have been really cool lately.
Lennox: Really....?
Mitile: He pulled nii-sama's hair! These Central soldiers are worse than the dine-and-dashers we see in the South!
Rutile: They think we almost killed their comrade, you know.
Mitile: But that doesn't justify violence! You were the one who taught me that!
Rutile: You're right. You're a good boy, Mitile — thank you for getting angry in my stead.
But you need to remember that people consumed by fear will do anything.....
I didn't want you to get hurt; I also didn't want them to do anything terrible.
Mitile: You're too kind! They came to attack us because they think the Southern wizards are the weakest of them all!
They just stand there, petrified and scared, in front of Oz and the Northern wizards, but when it comes to us, they’re so stuck-up!
Rutile: ......Mitile......
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17.4 The Torn Scarf
Mitile: ......We’re always the ones who lose out! It's all Owen's fault! He's a Northern wizard too, right!?
The Northern wizards are the reason people hate all wizards....! I hate the Northern wizards....!
Figaro: Rutile, Mitile! Leno, too — are you all right?
Mitile: Dr. Figaro....! Waah.... It’s the Northern wizards’ fault that, nii-sama....
Figaro: What happened to Rutile?
Rutile: I'm fine. A soldier just grabbed me for a second......
Mitile: ......Dr. Figaro! Why are we the ones who have to suffer when the Northern wizards are the ones who did everything wrong!?
I hate the Northern wizards. And I hate the humans who can't say a word to the Northern wizards but take out their cruelty on us instead — I hate them even more!
Figaro: Mitile......
Mitile: Dr. Figaro, I'm sorry.... You told me that I shouldn't think like a dictator, but I... I don't care if I am one......
If I had my own country, I would kick out all the bad guys.... I would protect nii-sama, and everyone else.....
Lennox: ....I'm not necessarily agreeing with Mitile, but the castle is currently in chaos. It's dangerous for us to stay here.
Rutile: ....But the inauguration ceremony....
Figaro: If we stand on the balcony now, we’re going to be showered in abuse, not applause.
In times like these, humans are no different from bees. They'll sting away until the enemy has left their precious beehive.
They don't know why they're mad, or who they're attacking. They don't think about what's going to happen as a result of their violence; they become blind and unstoppable.
Rutile: ........
Figaro: Rutile, are you sure you're not hurt?
Rutile: My body is fine.... But my heart is in pain.
.....Conflict brings nothing but sadness.
✦✧☾✧✦
Rustica: Oh, there you are, Chloe.
Chloe: ..........
Rustica: I know very well how whimsical Westerners can be, but the people of Central are certainly prone to mood swings as well.
The person who said hello to me in the morning glared at me and ran away in the afternoon. I was a little bit surprised.
Chloe?
Chloe: Ah...... Rustica. Sorry, sorry. What was that?
Rustica: Did you hide something behind your back?
Chloe: No, not at all!
Rustica: Ahaha. So now you're trying to surprise me too, Chloe. What are you hiding? A bird? A butterfly?
Chloe: Ah......!
Rustica: Come on, show me.
Chloe: ............
Rustica: ....A torn scarf? Isn’t this the scarf you embroidered, Chloe?
This blue bird, right here. I remember you working on it, because I thought it was so lovely.
How did it get torn?
Chloe: ......Ah....
....I gave it. To someone I made friends with at the party.
Rustica: ............
Chloe: She said it was pretty, so I told her she could have it as a symbol of our friendship.
Then she was really, really happy! She said she'd show it off to her friends and family!
....But this morning....
She said she didn't want it, because a wizard's scarf was bound to have some horrendous curse on it....
She said, "You're trying to deceive me and curse me to death, right?" And she tore it and threw it to the ground....
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17.5 Rustica’s Wish
Rustica: Chloe....
Chloe: It's fine, it's fine! I'm not feeling down about it or anything! I'm used to this sort of thing, anyway!
.....But I'm an idiot, so I came up with all these ridiculous fantasies.
Like, maybe if I give her this scarf, she'll put it on the next day, and come to say hi to me.
Then I’d feel really ticklish inside, but I’d also be really happy, and say, it looks great on you....
Chloe: Maybe her friends and family would ask me to make them scarves too, and I'd get really busy......
.......I came up with so many of those stupid fantasies, like the ones that play through your mind right before you fall asleep.....
She was afraid it might be cursed.... Of course she was scared..... I'm such an idiot.....
Rustica: You're not an idiot.
Chloe: ...I am an idiot.....
Rustica: Your dream is absolutely lovely. If she doesn't want the scarf, can I have it instead?
Chloe: ....It's nothing valuable. Rustica, you're handsome, so you deserve to wear something much nicer.
Rustica: There's no scarf more valuable than this one.
Chloe: ....That's not true. I haven't used any expensive fabrics or threads....
Rustica: Because this scarf is the only one of its kind in this world. It's something that only you could make.
Chloe: ..........
Rustica: It's more precious than a commonplace luxury you could find anywhere. It’s more precious than the moonstone; more precious than any jewel.
Here, look. This scarf was created by my beloved Chloe. It's the only one in the world.
It has my favorite blue bird embroidered on it, too. It’s a bit torn, but that’s no cause for concern. For I have a friend who's very good at needlework.
Rustica: I'm sure he will fix it up perfectly. This blue bird will fly freely into the sky, no matter how many times its wings are torn.
Isn't that right, Chloe?
Chloe: ......Yeah......
I'll sew it back together, as many times as I have to..... .....Thank you, Rustica.
Rustica: And you have my thanks as well. Don't cry...... Please smile, Chloe.
Chloe: ........ .....Yes......
Rustica: Please don't feel hurt. Like the bright moon that shines in the sky, we may be shoved away every time we approach someone, but......
We can smile wherever we are. We can sing the songs we love, and dance with the people we love, wherever we are.
✦✧☾✧✦
Vincent: That damned Northern wizard Owen....... We never should have trusted the Northern wizards to begin with.
It looks like Nicholas narrowly escaped death, but the Sage’s wizards must leave the castle at once.
Naturally, the inauguration ceremony is cancelled.
Arthur: Please wait, Uncle Vincent......
Vincent: Leave the festivities to me; you should consider staying at the royal villa for a while.
Arthur: Huh......?
Vincent: There are awful rumors going around. They say that the reason Oz took you in was so he could take over Central Country.
Prince Arthur is already under Oz’s control, and will one day hand the kingdom over to him.
Arthur: That's ridiculous...... Sir Oz isn't that kind of person!
Vincent: What proof do you have!? You are the ones who have stirred up the citizens’ anxiety!
Until the situation calms down, you should confine yourself to the royal villa, and.......
Oz: ..........
Vincent: Oz...... Where did you come from......
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17.6 Reason to Lie
Arthur: Sir Oz......
Oz: If I so wished, I could conquer Central Country without controlling a child like him.
Would you like me to show you my power?
Vincent: ...... You scoundrel! Guards, capture Oz......!
Arthur: Uncle!
Central Country soldier: C-capture Oz......!? No one can do that........
Vincent: The sun is going to set soon. Oz won’t be able to use his magic!
Oz: Yet at this moment, I could turn this capital to ashes in an instant. I’ll start with you.
Arthur: Sir Oz, please stop! Your anger is justified, but....
Oz: Out of my way.
Arthur: ......You’re not serious.
Oz: .......
<< Vox Nox >>
Arthur: ............ << Pernoctant Nixzo >>!
Vincent: .......
Soldier: Th-thank goodness......! Prince Arthur protected him!
Just as I thought, Prince Arthur is on our side! He's not being manipulated by Oz!
Oz: ........
Arthur: Sir Oz....
Oz: You just narrowly escaped death.
Arthur: .....Please wait, Sir Oz! Sir Oz—.....
......He disappeared......
Vincent: Never let Oz into the castle again!! He’s a traitor who tried to kill me......!
Arthur: You're wrong! Sir Oz isn't that kind of man! ......Sir Oz is......
He acted that way in order to create a place for me in this castle......
Vincent: ...... Hmph...... I don't believe that. That was his true nature.
Guards! Find Owen — and Oz as well!
Arthur: ......Sir Oz...... Have you been avoiding me in order to protect my reputation......?
But I have yet to repay you for any of your kindness......
✦✧☾✧✦
Oz: ..........
......I haven't seen his face up close in so long.
............
.....You’ve grown taller......
✦✧☾✧✦
Arthur: ......Pardon me.
Akira: Arthur...... Are you all right? I heard Mister Vincent summoned you......
Arthur: ......He informed me that the Sage’s wizards are to leave the castle and return to the magic headquarters......
The inauguration ceremony is cancelled...... The Magical Technology Corps will handle the investigation into the mysterious incidents at the cemetery......
And depending on what Nicholas says when he wakes up, Owen might be thrown into prison...... The same goes for Sir Oz as well......
Arthur, who is usually so full of life, lifts his head robotically.
His clear eyes are saying, "I am so, so sorry."
My heart lurches at his apologetic gaze — it hurts even more than his sadness and frustration.
Arthur: ......I apologize; this is all because of me — it’s due to my incompetence and lack of power.......
I failed to repay both you and Sir Oz; the current situation is entirely my fault......
Akira: Please don’t make that face...... It’s not your fault, Arthur......
Arthur: ......But......
Akira: Let's hear what Owen has to say once we find him......
I’m sure that is part of my job as the Sage, so please — you don’t have to shoulder all the responsibility for what has happened.
I know that you treasure everyone here — that includes me, and the wizards, and the people in this castle.
Your feelings truly came across......
With an unaffected and straightforward sincerity, Arthur smiles ever-so-slightly through his tears.
Arthur: ......Thank you, Sir Sage. I am saved by your kindness......
I can't spend my time wallowing in regret. I'll apologize to everyone, hand over the investigation to the Magical Technology Corps, and prepare to leave the castle.
Akira: Yes. But please don't push yourself.
Arthur: I'm all right. I feel better after speaking to you, Sir Sage. See you later!
Akira: I’m counting on you.
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17.7 Owen’s Wound
I watch Arthur’s back as he retreats into the castle, and let out a deep sigh.
As I spin around, ready to get back to work, Owen appears right before my eyes without warning.
Akira: ......! Owen......!
Owen: ...........
I observe Owen carefully, holding one hand to my chest, my heart pounding.
Owen is not smiling. He appeared out of nowhere without saying a word, yet he's waiting for my reaction.
I can't read his expression — but he seems lost, or perhaps dissatisfied.
This is the first time I’ve seen him so close without an eerie grin on his face.
His pale red eye, cold as glass, yet strangely alive...... His skin, white as a porcelain doll......
Akira: (......He's got a pretty face too......)
(Do all wizards just have beautiful faces......?)
Owen: Hey.
Akira: Ah, yes. Ah......! I have something I’d like to ask you regarding Mister Nicholas.
Owen: Yeah, that’s what I thought, and I was waiting for you to say something, but you didn't utter a word. So I get to go first.
Akira: Please wait! I was just a little distracted by something else......
Owen: You were distracted? When I'm right in front of your eyes? All right, tell me about it.
I look at Owen, who is still wearing his thorny smile, and tell him honestly.
Since I figure it’s probably useless to lie to a wizard.
Akira: You're always grinning, so I never noticed till now, but..... You're very beautiful, Owen.
Owen: ................. Haha......
Owen falls silent for a moment, and then tries to grin.
But his attempt ends in failure, so he furrows his brows instead.
Owen: So what?
Akira: Sorry......
Owen: Well, whatever. There’s something I’d like to ask you about the < Great Catastrophe >.
Akira: The < Great Catastrophe >? But wait, tell me about Mister Nicholas......
Owen: Shut up. I’m first. You mentioned that bizarre injuries were inflicted upon us when we fought the < Great Catastrophe >, right?
Like, Oz falls asleep when he tries to use magic, and Snow and White are trapped inside a frame in the middle of the night.
Akira: Yes......
Owen: Can you lose your memories from that?
Akira: Lose your memories? Wait, Owen...... Have you lost your memories?
Owen: .........
His displeased expression sets off a chain of thoughts in my mind.
When I saw him on the balcony this morning, he was in a daze.
But in retrospect, that was a rather strange sight.
Because when he tried to drive me into a corner, and whenever he hurled insults at the people around him — Owen always donned a mocking smile.
Akira: .....You don't remember what happened when you were with Mister Nicholas?
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17.8 The Punishment He Faced
Owen glares at me with frightening displeasure.
Owen: You're wrong.
Akira: B-but......
Owen: I killed him. I manipulated his heart so that he would leap off the balcony.
Akira: But why......
Owen: Why? Because I wanted to see him crushed like a tomato, of course.
Owen puts on a cruel smile. He appears to be enjoying himself, but I get the feeling he’s forcing himself to put on a show.
I take a deep breath, and carefully try to persuade Owen.
Akira: Owen...... If you’ve lost your memories, then you can’t be the only one responsible here.
If you explain what happened, I’m sure everyone else will understand. Can you please tell me the truth?
Owen smiles gently.
Owen: I killed him. It was so much fun.
Akira: ......Owen......
Owen: Anyway, who cares about that? Tell me how to fix these bizarre injuries from the < Great Catastrophe >.
Can you heal them? Or are you useless?
The word "useless" strikes a nerve within me, and I snap back without thinking.
Akira: So you want me to heal your injury?
Owen: .............
Owen looks ready to kill.
I clamp my mouth shut. Terror wells up within me and I can no longer bear to look him in the eye.
Owen: I'm asking you if you can heal this injury.
Akira: I-if.... If you didn’t need me to fix it, you wouldn't be asking me for help.
Owen’s voice turns into a soft, coaxing purr, but his eyes alone remain unsmiling.
Owen: Hey, Sir Sage....... If I kill you, the world might end, but—.
There are plenty of punishments far worse than death. Want me to teach you some?
Akira: ......I’m aware of that. Because I've already subjected you to one such punishment.....
Owen: ......What?
Akira: I assumed that you might really have done it, so I blindly suspected you.
Owen: ..........
Akira: I'm sorry.
Owen is once again expressionless, just as he was when he stared down at the ground from the balcony.
I now understand the emotion that lay behind this face.
He was at a complete loss.
He didn’t know what to do until someone pointed a finger and yelled insults at him — the relief he felt then brought the grin back to his face.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: ............ Haha........
That’s right. It's just as you desire.
Every last misfortune that befalls you is my doing.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: .....Ridiculous.
Akira: Owen! Wait......!
Owen ignores me and vanishes like smoke.
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Chapter 16 << | index | >> Chapter 18