healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-07-18 11:49 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-07-18 11:49 pm
Main Story | Chapter 19 | Bizarre Injuries Left by the Catastrophe
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Chapter 18 << | index | >> Chapter 20
Chapter 19: Bizarre Injuries Left by the Catastrophe
19.1 Mana Stones
19.2 A Story to Be Recorded
19.3 Injuries
19.4 Overflowing Dreams
19.5 The Sight of Betrayal
19.6 A Prayer in the Depths of His Eyes
19.7 An Affable Buddy
19.8 Lord and Vassal
19.9 Lingering in the Shadows
19.10 An Innocent Palm
19.11 Forbidden Ritual
19.12 Identity
19.1 Mana Stones
A few days later—
Cain: Prince Arthur hasn't sent word from the Central capital yet. I wonder how he’s doing...... Should I go check on him in secret?
Shylock: I would recommend against it. We have essentially been ordered to quarantine ourselves here.
Cain: But we need to find the culprit behind the incident at the Lunar Eclipse Palace....
Shylock: Of course. That is why, until things calm down, we need to do all the investigating we can here at the magic headquarters.
Cain: Investigating? At the magic headquarters......? Wh-what's with this mountain of massive books!?
Shylock: Please research the Umbra Volans.
Cain: ......... You see, I'm not very good at deskwork.....
Shylock: I know very well. You mischievous boy.
Snow: Umbra Volans, Umbra Volans......
White: What was it again......
Chloe: Please try your best to remember! Murr apparently said that you two would know about it!
Right, Murr!
Murr: Looks like it!
Snow: Hmm...... I feel like I might remember if I ate something sweet......
White: Maybe if someone massaged my shoulders......
Chloe: You said that yesterday, too. Geez, you keep repeating yourselves~.
Murr: It's because they're old geezers!
Snow: We're not old geezers!
White: We’re not old geezers~!
Figaro: And we still don't know anything about the piece of equipment that belonged to the Magical Technology Corps, right?
Shylock: Even if they’d found anything, they might not report it to us. For it could very well cause a scandal for Central Country.
Figaro: I'd welcome a scandal or two — otherwise, they're going to start hunting wizards.
Akira: You mentioned that before. What does that mean?
Figaro: Magical technology is fueled by mana stones. Mana stones are the stones of wizards — they contain their magic powers.
Mana stones are being burned more quickly than ever now due to the emergence of magical technology equipment. Eventually, we’ll run into a shortage of mana stones.
And when there's a shortage, what will humans do? I think the Western wizards know the answer to this question.
Shylock. I hear that in Western Country, they hunted magical creatures to the brink of extinction.
Shylock: It's just as you say. With the advancement of science, the West has entered an era of madness.
Western Country has always been lacking in morals. But now that the citizens’ desires have grown exponentially — they've become unstoppable.
Figaro: Back in the day, we thought it was impossible for humans to kill magical beasts. But now there are too many humans.
And with the development of magical science weaponry...... If a weak child like Mitile were attacked, he'd get turned into stone.
I want to prevent that kind of future from coming to pass.
Cain: We need to start by getting people to trust wizards. Where in the world is the root of all evil — Owen?
Snow: I wonder.
White: We’re not close enough to pay him a home visit, you see.
Cain: This is about the Northern wizards, so please, pull yourselves together. What are Owen’s special characteristics?
Snow: He can speak to beasts, such as wolves. He was a huntsman, after all. He's also skilled at absorbing magic.
White: Wizards usually obtain their magic from nature, but Owen is a bit special.
Snow: He gains his power from human emotions. That's why we think he can’t be too far from where humans live......
(Door opens)
Heathcliff: ......Sir Sage.
Akira: Ah...... What is it?
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19.2 A Story to Be Recorded
Heathcliff: I apologize for interrupting, but Shino came across a visitor just now......
Shino: We have guests. Can I bring them in?
Akira: Guests......?
The person that the two Eastern youths bring over is — Central Country’s secretary, Mister Cock Robin.
Alongside a beautiful lady with an air of competence around her.
Cock Robin: It's been a while, Sir Sage. Um, this is......
???: I'm Canary, Cock Robin's wife. Thank you for taking care of my husband.
Could you let me work here too?
Akira: Work here at the magic headquarters......?
Canary: Yes! I just couldn’t sit still after hearing what he told me!
The world was saved thanks to Sir Sage and his wizards, yet you don’t even have anyone to take care of you!
If you don't mind, I'd love to help out — I can do cleaning, laundry, you name it!
Akira: Th...... Thank you!
Canary: That's not all. Come on, say it.
Cock Robin: Hey, give me a moment...... I need to prepare......
Canary: Stop mumbling. Muster up some courage!
Cock Robin: ......
Miss Canary pushes him forward, and Mister Cock Robin approaches me.
He nervously opens his mouth, book and pen in hand.
Cock Robin: I...... I'm a scribe...... Making a record of events is my job.
Akira: Yes......
Cock Robin: I was wondering if you would let me write about everyone here until the next < Great Catastrophe > arrives?
And, if possible, I'd like to report my writings to the castle.
Akira: Why would you...... Is it because you don't trust us......?
Cock Robin: No, it's the other way round. I want them to understand — what wizards are like, and how they saved the world, and so on.
What kind of situation you're in, what you're thinking, what's bothering you...... Neither the people in the castle nor the townspeople know anything about you.
I was the same. That's why I was scared...... But the wizards still saved me.
I want to keep a proper record, so I can convey that wizards are not who people think they are; that they’re working this hard for our sake.
I’m sure I met the previous sage a number of times, but for some reason I can't remember his face or his name......
But if we kept a proper record, then I’m sure we'd all be able to remember. We would know that the Sage was here, and we would remember the things that he did.
Akira: Mister Cock Robin......
Cock Robin: This was actually Sir Drummond's suggestion. But he said to keep it a secret, so please don't tell him......
He said that wizards were the ones who helped us when the world was in trouble — when I was in trouble. He didn't want you to think that humans are all ungrateful.
I recall Mister Drummond’s face, and my chest grows warm.
There are still humans who care about wizards like this.
That alone makes me happy.
Akira: Thank you...... I'm sure everyone else will be delighted too.
Cock Robin: Yes!
Canary: Sir Sage, mister wizards. I'm sure there will be lots of trouble lying ahead of you all, but please never give up.
I'll cheer you on with everything I've got!
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19.3 Injuries
With Mister Cock Robin and Miss Canary’s arrival at the magic headquarters, the wizards begin to regain their spirits.
✦✧☾✧✦
Cock Robin: Time to record everything I can! So when wizards use too much magic, their hearts become exhausted, and they grow fatigued......
Murr: Boo!
Cock Robin: ......You surprised me! Why did you do that?
Murr: Because I like surprising people.
Cock Robin: .....
(Writing sounds)
Cock Robin: The Western wizard Murr enjoys surprising people......
Murr: You’re writing it down! What a diligent guy!
✦✧☾✧✦
Canary: Delicious! I didn't realize the extra step would make it taste so much better.
Nero: Glad I could help. Okay, I need to go now......
Canary: Mister Nero, could you teach me more about cooking from now on? If you don't mind, that is.
Nero: ............
Canary: I'm not that good at cooking, I’d be very grateful for your help.
Nero: I guess...... Once in a while......
Canary: Great! Thank you very much!
Nero: Haha......
You're welcome.
✦✧☾✧✦
Shino: We still don't know what Heath's bizarre injury is?
Heathcliff: Don't bring it up...... I'm getting more and more anxious.
Cain: Hopefully it’s not one of the painful types. Shylock looks like he has it rough. Though it’s pretty inconvenient not being able to see people until I touch them.
Shino: What kind of injury could you handle?
Heathcliff: Umm...... Sneezing yourself into the distance seems kind of fun.
Bradley: You bastard.
Heathcliff: .......I-I didn’t realize you were around.
Bradley: "Seems kinda fun?" This isn't a damn joke.
Shino: Oh, so you get blasted away seriously?
Bradley: The hell!?
Cain: Don't threaten them, Bradley.
Bradley: First things first, you bastards need to......
Ah-choo!!
(Poof)
Shino: .......... He's gone.
Heathcliff: Yeah, that does seem fun.
(Footsteps)
Riquet: I’m sorry! Mitile and I were blowing dandelion puffs!
Mitile: Did they come this way?
Cain: No worries. You guys did a great job.
✦✧☾✧✦
That night—....
I witness a new bizarre injury.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......I woke up in the middle of the night...... Guess I’ll have a cup of tea before I go back to bed......
......Huh......?
What is this......?
A quiet illusion floats along the moonlit corridor.
It’s a cluster of lilac-colored flower petals.
But they disappear in an instant.
Akira: ......Ah...... It turned into snow......
In an instant, the dancing flower petals turn into fine snow.
But the snow disappears before it has a chance to pile up, like churning sea foam dissolving between the waves.
I chase after the wondrous illusion that comes drifting my way from above the stairs.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......It's coming from the door to that room......
That's...... Faust's room......
Lennox: Sir Sage.
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19.4 Overflowing Dreams
Akira: Lennox......
Lennox: What are you doing up so late? ......Where is this snow coming from......?
Akira: It seems to be spilling out from the cracks in Faust's door.
Lennox: Sir Faust’s......
Lennox falls silent.
The dancing snowflakes gradually turn into glowing red sparks.
The sparks don’t catch fire; they simply vanish in silence. But I still grow concerned.
Akira: ......Is this some kind of spell? Lennox, do you know what this is?
Lennox: No......
(Knock knock)
After hesitating for a moment, I knock on Faust’s door.
Akira: Faust...... Faust.
There’s no response.
Under the dark moonlit night, the red glow of the sparks burns even brighter.
Lennox: He might have set up a barrier. Sir Faust is a very cautious person, after all.
Figaro: What are you two up to?
Akira: Figaro......
Figaro calls out to us from below the stairs. Before we can reply, Figaro notices the strange affair and furrows his brows.
The fire burns with greater intensity, the flames curling out from behind the doorframe.
Figaro: Stand back. I'll open the door.
Figaro places his hand on the doorknob and solemnly chants his spell.
Figaro: << Possideo >>
The doorknob turns as the sound of his magic slices through the air.
(Door opens)
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......Ah......
I fall silent at the scene that greets us beyond the door.
A blazing, furious fire surrounds the bed where Faust sleeps.
And every corner of the room overflows with strange illusions that crowd around him.
The window reflects the hill of execution. On the ceiling: a boy who looks just like Arthur. Figaro and Lennox are there, too
And Faust, who is surrounded by people who love and respect him, wearing a calm and gentle smile on his face.
Yet I can also see a scene of Faust being crucified and burned at the stake.
Lennox: ......These must be...... Sir Faust's dreams......
Akira: Faust's dreams......
Faust: ......Nn......
Faust stirs slightly. We hold our breath, and Figaro speaks.
Figaro: Let's get out of here before he wakes up.
✦✧☾✧✦
We leave Faust’s room and walk through the courtyard.
The sight we just witnessed is seared into my mind.
Lennox: ......Was that the bizarre injury that the < Great Catastrophe > left on Sir Faust?
Figaro: Probably. It looks like the exact thing he would hate more than anything else in the world.
Akira: Were those illusions in Faust’s room images from his past......?
Figaro: It wasn’t just his past; his desires probably manifested a part of those images, too. I didn't participate in the final battle.
Akira: Why......?
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19.5 The Sight of Betrayal
Figaro: I abandoned the front lines. Faust still resents me for it. But I didn’t leave because I was struck by panic.
Victory was right before our eyes. We all believed the human Alec and the wizard Faust would establish a new, ideal country.
I never thought that Alec would be swayed by his close aides and end up actually executing the wizards.
Akira: ......Execute......
Lennox: Of course it was possible to resist execution. But Sir Faust believed that Sir Alec would never carry it out........
Until the very moment the fire was lit......
Akira: ..........
Lennox: I will never forget that day...... But I never realized that he still dreamed of it so vividly, even now......
I don’t think I could possibly ever imagine.... The sheer depth of his pain.
Figaro: If he discovers the truth about his bizarre injury, Faust will probably say that he’s leaving the magic headquarters.
We all have our pasts that we would rather hide from others. If his overflows while he’s unconscious......
He could probably prevent his dreams from overflowing by establishing an even more powerful barrier, but there’s no reason for him to go through that effort just to stay here.
If we stay silent, then everything will remain within the realm of dreams. He might not realize what's going on...... I'll leave the decision to you, Sir Sage.
Akira: ........... Lennox, are you all right with that?
Lennox: ......I would like you to tell him what's going on. Even if it ultimately leads to Sir Faust leaving the magic headquarters......
I don't want to rob him of anything else that he might trust.
Akira: ............
✦✧☾✧✦
After thinking about it for a night, I decide to tell Faust.
Faust: ............
Faust looks shocked, but he listens till the end without saying a word.
He doesn’t get mad, or try to run away; he simply stands there in silence, as if he’s enduring everything I’m telling him.
Akira: ......If you choose to stay here, I will do anything I can to support you, Faust.
I will figure out how to keep you from getting hurt. I can't force you to stay, but please consider it.
Faust: ............
Why did you tell me? If you had stayed silent, I might never have realized what was going on.
Akira: I really would like you to stay here at the magic headquarters, Faust. But......
Nobody wants other people to find out about their deepest secrets.
Hiding this from you while relying on you for your knowledge and magic — I didn’t want to take advantage of you like that.
I wanted you to believe in me...... I wanted you to stay here because you trusted me.
Faust: ............
......I see. I'll remain.
Akira: Faust......
He lowers his eyes, falling silent.
Faust: ......But I want to set up a powerful barrier to prevent my dreams from overflowing. I’ll head out to the East in order to obtain the appropriate medium.
I will be gone for a while. Is that all right?
Akira: Of course...... Thank you, Faust.
Faust: Not at all.......
Lennox: Sir Faust. Please take me with you.
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19.6 A Prayer in the Depths of His Eyes
Akira: Lennox......
Lennox: I'm sure I can at least serve as a watchguard. Please, let me join you.
Faust looks ambivalent. But he doesn’t glare at Lennox in displeasure; instead, he sighs softly.
Faust: There's nothing I can do for you anymore.
Lennox: I never wished for you to do anything for me. I simply want to be of use to you.
Faust: .......Have you been searching for me all these years?
Lennox: I wandered through many lands. Though I’ve been in the South ever since I met Sir Figaro, the one who taught you magic.
Faust: I see...... I'm sorry.
Lennox smiles gently.
Lennox: Why are you apologizing? I was able to meet you again. And this time, I will follow you to the ends of the earth.
Faust: I'm just looking for a medium. I won't abandon my students and run away — I'm not Figaro.
Lennox: Sir Figaro was worried about you too.
Faust: I wonder about that.
Watching their exchange brings a smile to my face.
Faust, who kept insisting that Lennox had the wrong person, is now accepting him.
His dreams, which weighed him down from every corner of his room, must have been alleviated ever-so-slightly.
As he heads out of the room, Faust turns around to look at me.
Faust: Sage.
Akira: Yes......
Faust: I, too, once wanted the trust of a certain human. But I simply made a fool of myself.
The same thing might happen to you. I might just never return from this journey.
Faust says cynically.
But his gaze isn’t bitter; instead it looks almost longing.
I look him in the eye.
Akira: Even so I....... I want to believe that you will return, so I will wait for you here.
Faust: ............
Akira: Have a safe journey, Faust.
Faust: Hmph......
Faust walks out of the hallway.
I don’t know what he was trying to say, and I don’t know what he wanted to hear from me.... I don’t know if my feelings came across to him.
But I think of Faust’s calm smile from yesterday, and something tells me that this won’t be a lonely last farewell.
Lennox bows to me slightly before chasing after Faust.
And thus, the two of them leave the magical headquarters.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next day, Rutile and the others ask if they can go to the Central capital.
Rutile: We were in the middle of repair work, and I'm still worried about how everyone in Central is doing......
Akira: But what if they chase you away like last time......?
Figaro: It's been a while; we should be all right. People aren't really afraid of Southern wizards anyway.
Mitile: I want to go help alongside nii-sama too! Plus...
Riquet: I want to go, too.
Akira: Riquet......
Riquet: Mitile invited me, so...... I want to see if I can use my powers to help people.
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19.7 An Affable Buddy
Riquet: I'll think about whether I want to return to the Church after that.
Akira: I understand. Everyone, please be careful.
I would be less worried if Lennox were around, but......
Rutile: Mister Leno was able to make up with Mister Faust, right? Mister Leno seemed so happy.
Figaro: It's not like they had a falling out, actually. Faust was just avoiding him. Leno used to be Faust's servant.
Mitile: Mister Faust seemed kind of scary, but if he’s an old friend of Mister Leno, then he must be a good person.
Figaro: That’s right. Well then, Sir Sage, we’ll get going......
Bradley: I'll come with you.
Akira: Bradley......
Bradley: You're going to go help out with repair work, right? I'm joining you to get my pardon. That’s fine by you, right, Sage?
Akira: Y-yes. Of course.
Mitile: But you wanted to ditch so badly......
Rutile: See, everyone here is a kind person at their core. Let's get along, Mister Bradley.
Bradley: Yeah. Give me a sec. I’m gonna get ready.
✦✧☾✧✦
(Water boiling)
Nero: Hmhm~. Let the meat sauce cook overnight~......
Bradley: Hey, come here for a sec.
Nero: Woah!? What the hell are you doing!?
Bradley: Cut the humming. The bloody chef Nero sure lost his edge.
Nero: Shut up......
Bradley: Can I get a bite?
Nero: Not yet, you idiot! What the hell do you want? If you're just here to pick a stupid fight, I'll make it rain pepper.
Bradley: Hold off, you idiot! Hey, tag along with me tonight. We’re gonna sneak off to the Lunar Eclipse Palace in Central.
Nero: The Lunar Eclipse Palace?
Bradley: Yeah. All the treasures they took from me when I got captured are stashed away there. I’m gonna use this opportunity to get them back.
I eavesdropped on the guys from the West. They say the Lunar Eclipse Palace is a mess right now. It’s the perfect opportunity to take everything back.
Nero: Stop messing with me! I said I went clean!
Bradley: It’s not stealing. I'm just taking it back.
Nero: Yeah, and you stole it in the first place......
Bradley: What was that, Nero? Are you gonna put up a fight? Do you think you stand a chance?
Nero: ......I thought getting thrown into jail might’ve helped you fix that attitude, but you really haven’t changed at all......
Bradley: Shut up. You should just listen to my orders.
Nero: ...............
Bradley: Come on, buddy! Fine, I’ll make this the last time. We’ll go our separate ways after this, Nero.
We never finished our last job because I got captured. So let's wreak havoc in the Lunar Eclipse Palace and call that the end.
Nero: ............ So this is really gonna be the last time?
Bradley: That's how I feel right now. But I tend to change my mind easily.
Nero: Sigh...... Fine.
Bradley: Alright. Can I eat this meat sauce?
Nero: Don't touch it, fucker! It still needs to simmer. Want me to turn you into meat sauce?
Bradley: You're so scary, geez......
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19.8 Lord and Vassal
Mithra: Sigh............
Rutile: Mister Mithra.
Mithra: ......What is it?
Rutile: Were you taking an afternoon nap?
Mithra: No...... I've had trouble sleeping lately......
Rutile: I see...... Shall I bring you some herbs that will help with your sleep? You can put them inside your pillow.
Mithra: What do you want from me?
Rutile: Ah...... I'm sorry.
I'm headed off to the Central capital right now. If you'd like, I can collect what you lent to that child.
Mithra: What I lent to who......? What are you talking about?
Rutile: A skinny, intelligent child in the Central capital. He said he was carrying something that belonged to you, Mister Mithra.
Mithra: Huh...... I don't know what you're talking about.
Rutile: I see......
Mithra: You always talk about things that make no sense.
Rutile: ............
I remember them, so they aren't just things that make no sense. To me, they’re precious memories.
Mithra: Okay......
Rutile: ......Sorry for bothering you. I hope you get lots of rest.
Excuse me.
(Footsteps)
Mithra: ............
......Herbs, huh. She loved them too. She always mixed those strange-smelling things into her magical potions.......
I still can't believe that you no longer exist in this world.
The great witch, Tiretta.
✦✧☾✧✦
Rutile: Well then, see you later!
Cock Robin: Mister Rutile! Would you let me ride on your broom? I’d like to make a report to Sir Drummond.
Rutile: Of course, I’d be glad to!
Cock Robin: Thank you!
Canary: Have a safe trip! Take care, dear!
Figaro: You’re a lucky guy, Cock Robin.
Mitile: Riquet, let's compete!
Riquet: Yes! Of course!
Akira: See you later. Take care, everyone.
......Hmm......? I feel like I just saw someone pass by......
Maybe it was just my imagination......
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Looks like the Southern wizards have headed off to Central. I wanted to join them, but the higher-ups have been keeping a close watch on me lately.
Heathcliff: On you? Why?
Cain: See, they've started these baseless rumors. Something about me colluding with a powerful noble from another country, and selling information about the Central troops.
Shino: A powerful noble from another country?
Cain: Yeah. I don't know anyone like that.
Shino: Isn't it this guy?
Heathcliff: I...... I think it might be me......
Cain: Oh, right! I forgot you were something like a nobleman’s son!
Shino: "Something like a nobleman’s son"? Know your place. You're just a former knight; Heath is of higher status than you.
Heathcliff: Yeah, speak for yourself first, Shino.
Shino: What? You were the one who got all embarrassed when I called you "my lord." I wanted to call you that.
Cain: I get you, I get you! It makes you feel like a loyal vassal. I've addressed Prince Arthur like that before.
Heathcliff: And what did Prince Arthur say......?
Cain: He was surprised, and then he laughed.
Shino: The dude's pretty cheerful.
Cain: Hey, don't call him a dude. He's my master.
Heathcliff: You two are peas in a pod. I'll go make some tea.
Cain: Yeah.
Shino: Please.
Heathcliff: ......See, you say all that, but then you make me brew your tea. If we were at home, a servant would be yelling at you right now.
Cain: What was that?
Heathcliff: Haha, it's nothi—......!
Shino: What is it?
Heathcliff: Did you see someone outside the window just now?
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19.9 Lingering in the Shadows
Cain: I mean, I can't see anyone, so... ..........!
I can see him........
Heathcliff: Where are you headed with your sword, Cain!?
Cain: There’s only one guy I can see!
Heathcliff: Who?
Cain: Owen.
(Door opens)
Cain: ............!
Akira: Ah...... Sorry, I forgot to knock. Did I surprise you?
Cain: This voice... Is that you, Sir Sage?
Akira: Yes. Let's shake hands...... Can you see me now?
Cain: Yeah. Be careful. Owen's here in the magic headquarters. I'll go check the courtyard.
Akira: I'll go with you!
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Where are you...... Owen! Owen, show yourself!
The courtyard greenery rustles noisily.
Clouds drift across the clear blue sky, blocking out the sun.
Suddenly, Cain stops walking.
He gazes intently at the shadow of a tall tree, muttering under his breath.
Cain: ......There he is.
He’s right; there's someone hiding in the shadows cast by the tree.
Someone who is gazing in our direction.
Cain: I'll go check. You stay here.
Akira: Yes...... Um, please listen to what Owen has to say. He has no memory of what happened at the time.
Cain: If I listened to Owen, I'd go mad.
Cain narrows his eyes of different colors, and walks closer to the tree.
As Cain approaches, the person standing in the shadows slowly reveals himself.
A ray of sunlight breaks through the clouds, illuminating his face.
Skin as white as a ghost; one eye the color of pale blood, and the other glittering gold.
It's Owen.
He's smiling in delight.
Owen: ......Sir Knight......
Cain: Come on out, Owen......!
Cain tugs roughly at Owen's arm, pulling him towards himself.
Owen looks surprised, and he falls to the ground on his knees.
Cain is baffled, but Owen just gazes up at him in sheer joy.
Owen: Sir Knight......
Cain: What are you saying......? Everyone in the country is looking for you! What did you do to Captain Nicholas!?
Owen: Nicholas told me. He said that you're the strongest knight in the land, Cain.
Cain: ......Owen?
Owen: I thought that if I was a good boy, Sir Knight would come to save me. Did you come to save me?
Cain: What are you saying......?
Cain, taken aback, releases Owen’s hand. But as he does, Owen grabs back onto it like a child pestering him to play.
His smile, bathed in the sunlight filtering through the leaves, looks unlike anything I've seen of Owen before.
It's a smile full of pure hope.
Owen: A dark, damp place. There was nothing but rats and moles. That's where I lived.
I was lonely, but I had a picture book. It was a book about Sir Knight that was half turned to dirt.
He beats up bad guys, and saves people who are in trouble. He finally came. You finally came for me.
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19.10 An Innocent Palm
Owen looks up at Cain with a pure smile spread across his face as his eyes shine with admiration.
He reaches out to touch Cain's face with both his hands.
Cain furrows his eyebrows, but he is frozen in place.
Cain: ...... What are you talking about? I won’t fall for it. You’ve fooled me one too many times playing at weakness and sadness.
And you also stole my eye.
Talking about it seems to snap Cain back to his frustration with Owen, and he shakes off Owen’s hands.
Owen looks heartbroken.
His eyes well up with tears; just watching him is enough to make me feel sad.
Owen: ......Why......
Cain: Stop with your creepy acting! What are you up to!?
Owen: ......Are you mad because I took your eye, Sir Knight......?
Cain: Exactly! Your left eye belongs to me, you know!
Owen: ......I'm sorry......
Cain: D... Did you just say sorry...? Hey, seriously, what's wrong, Owen......
Owen: I'll give it back to you right now...... So don't get mad......
Cain: H... Hey......
Owen looks down and, without hesitation, tries to jab his finger into his left eye.
Owen: ......Uu......
Owen’s face distorts with pain.
Flustered, Cain grabs his arm.
Cain: Stop! Stop it......!
Owen: ............
Realizing that something must be wrong, I rush over to them.
Akira: ......You're bleeding. Let's go treat your eye, Owen.
Owen: ......But......
I look up at Cain, who shakes his head like he doesn’t understand what’s going on, and then sighs.
Cain: ....I'm not mad at you anymore. Let's fix you up.
Owen smiles.
✦✧☾✧✦
Once we’re inside, Owen puts up with our ministrations in an unbelievably docile manner.
Shino: Oh, you hurt the white of your eye. Look this way. I'll do your eyedrops.
Owen: Blep.
Shino: You don't need to stick out your tongue.
Owen: Are eyedrops scary?
Shino: They’re a piece of cake.
Owen: Weh....!
Shino: My bad. I missed.
Owen: ......No more eyedrop......
Shino: Don't give up.
Heath nervously watches Shino as he applies Owen’s eyedrops.
Heathcliff: Amazing...... I can’t believe Owen is obediently letting Shino do his eyedrops.....
Cain: Just watching them is making me go mad...... Why in the world is this happening?
Owen: Sir Knight, Sir Knight.
Cain: ......Er, what?
Owen: I'll do my best with the eyedrops, so please watch me.
Cain: ............
Heathcliff: He’s really attached to you......
Cain: I don't get it......
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19.11 Forbidden Ritual
Owen: Sir Knight, Sir Knight.
Heathcliff: Y... You should say something......
Cain: Y... You got this~. I'm so proud of you. There. There.
Owen: Ehehe......
Weh......!
Shino: My bad. I missed again.
Heathcliff: You know, he would've killed you twice by now......
Owen: ......I don't want to do this anymore......
Shino: You got this. You can totally handle it.
Cain: You’re doing great, I'm so proud of you~.
Heathcliff: Y... Yeah, you can do it~.
Owen’s cheeks end up dripping wet in the process, but Shino manages to finish administering the eyedrops.
Cain: Are you okay?
Owen: Um...... Shino sucks at eyedrops.
Shino: Shut up.
Cain: Can't you use magic? You stole my eye with magic. Don't stick your finger in your eye anymore.
Owen: Nicholas said I was a wizard.
Cain: Nicholas...... Do you remember what you guys talked about? Why did he fall?
Owen: Um...... Because the town was destroyed.
Cain: Because the town was destroyed......?
Owen smiles brightly and gives a tiny nod.
Cain: Can you give me some details?
Owen: Um...... Will you be proud of me if I remember?
Cain: Of course, of course. You got this.
Even Cain’s flippant praise makes Owen happy.
Owen: Um...... Nicholas wanted to become a wizard.
The wizards are keeping it a secret, but if the moon falls, everyone can become a wizard.
That's why, it's better to accept the moon, instead of pushing it away...... That's what he was told.
Akira: Who told him that......?
Owen: Nova.
Akira: Nova......
Owen: He helped with Nova's ritual, and that’s what messed up the town.
He said, "It's my fault, I can't do this anymore, I'm going to take responsibility and leap from here," and then he leapt.
Heathcliff: Take responsibility...... So that really was a suicide attempt?
Shino: Well, if you helped summon the < Great Catastrophe > and it ended up wrecking the whole world, I guess it would make you wanna die.
Akira: So Owen really never manipulated his heart......
If this was the Owen who was with Mister Nicholas back then, I can't imagine that he would’ve been capable of anything like that.
Shino: So is this happening to Owen because of his bizarre injury from the < Great Catastrophe >?
Heathcliff: Most likely...... I can’t believe Owen, who’s like the embodiment of evil and fear, turned into this......
Shino: Isn't he better this way......?
Heathcliff: You’re right......
Cain: No, I prefer him as he usually is. This just makes things hard for me......
Owen: Sir Knight, I remembered.
Cain: I'm so proud of you! I'm proud of you, and I'd also like you to remember a few more things.
Who's Nova? What kind of guy is he?
Owen: Um......
Cain: Did Nicholas say anything?
Owen: ............
Owen’s expression suddenly freezes.
It’s a face that I’ve seen before: he’s frozen, as if at a loss.
Cain is so focused on talking that he doesn't seem to realize.
Cain: Come on, Owen. Do your best, and try to remember. If you do, I'll praise you with my whole heart!
Owen: Oh......
Owen sneers and grabs Cain’s chin.
Cain: ............!
Owen: What are you going to praise me for? Sir Knight.
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19.12 Identity
Cain: This guy......
Akira: Owen......!
The usual Owen stands there, grinning as coldly as always.
He looks around the room and begins to form a sentence.
But at that moment, the door opens.
Snow: Sage!
White: Sage, we figured it out! The identity of the Umbra Volans!
Heathcliff: Sir Snow, Sir White.
Snow: Oh, Owen. I didn't realize you came back to the magic headquarters.
Owen: ............
After a beat, Owen smiles leisurely.
Owen: I can come back whenever I want.
Cain: Stop putting up a front. If this is the same as when Nicholas fell, you shouldn’t remember anything about what happened just now.
Owen: ......What do you mean, just now?
Cain: You were really attached to me.
Shino: You let me do your eyedrops.
Heathcliff: You wanted us to praise you......
Snow: My goodness...... So Owen's bizarre injury completely changes his personality?
White: Or perhaps it's his original.......
Owen: Don’t be ridiculous. At least come up with something better.
Cain: What about this damp, dark place?
Owen: ............
Cain: You said there was a picture book. Where a knight saves people who are in trouble......
Owen: I have no clue what you’re talking about.
Snow: Where are you going, Owen!
White: We need your cooperation! Something horrible is about to happen!
Owen: Then there’s really no reason for me to help. Because I love horrible things.
Owen lifts his chin, a bone-chilling smile on his face.
Owen: The whole world should fall into madness — screaming, blood, and fear.
Cain: Owen......!
And like smoke, Owen vanishes.
Cain: Dammit...... We were so close......
Heathcliff: But we got some really important clues out of him. We should be able to figure out what’s going on once we interrogate Nicholas.
Shino: Snow, White. What about the identity of the Umbra Volans?
Snow: < The Omen of Umbra Volans >.
Shino: The Omen......?
White: A spell that was sealed away in ancient times...... The Festival of the City of the Dead.
Snow: It is a large-scale summoning spell where the dead of the lost city are brought back to life, and every living being is offered up as fodder for their revival.
White: < The Omen of Umbra Volans > is the bird that symbolizes the beginning of this festival.
Snow: Judging from the time it appeared — the dead should begin coming back to life tonight.
Cain: ......Oh god...... But wasn’t the ritual performed at the Lunar Eclipse Palace supposed to summon the moon?
Snow: They offered old human bones instead of living sacrifices, right? That's why the ritual transformed.
White: Nicholas is a military man; his job is to protect the people. I suppose even he could not gather living humans.
Heathcliff: But according to the Western wizards, the same kind of ritual was conducted all over the world......
Shino: Some of them must've actually used living humans. This Nova guy might have guided them from the shadows.
Snow, White. How do we stop this Festival of the City of the Dead?
Snow: Look for the moonstone that was used as the medium.
White: Unless we purify the moonstone, the Umbra Volans will materialize, and the dead will start to come back to life.
Shino: This is a great opportunity to make a name for myself. I'm headed to the capital.
Cain: I'll go too. I need to report this to Prince Arthur.
Heathcliff: I'll join you. What will you do, Sir Snow and Sir White?
Snow: Dusk is approaching. Once the sun has set, Oz cannot use magic.
White: Owen isn't around, so we need to secure Mithra’s assistance. Sage, do help us convince him.
Akira: I understand.
Snow: Thank you. Mithra has been very irritable lately, you see.
White: It must be due to sleep deprivation. He needs to stop staying up all night......
Akira: Cain, Heathcliff, Shino. I'm counting on you.
Shino: We’re headed off.
Heathcliff: Please take care, Sir Sage!
Cain: I apologize for leaving your side. Please leave the capital to us.
Akira: Got it! Please take care!
The dead are coming back to life tonight...... I think of Snow and White’s words, and a chill runs down my spine.
I need to do what I can, and face each task in front of me in order to protect everyone.
I take a deep breath and leave the room.
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Chapter 18 << | index | >> Chapter 20
Chapter 18 << | index | >> Chapter 20
Chapter 19: Bizarre Injuries Left by the Catastrophe
19.1 Mana Stones
19.2 A Story to Be Recorded
19.3 Injuries
19.4 Overflowing Dreams
19.5 The Sight of Betrayal
19.6 A Prayer in the Depths of His Eyes
19.7 An Affable Buddy
19.8 Lord and Vassal
19.9 Lingering in the Shadows
19.10 An Innocent Palm
19.11 Forbidden Ritual
19.12 Identity
19.1 Mana Stones
A few days later—
Cain: Prince Arthur hasn't sent word from the Central capital yet. I wonder how he’s doing...... Should I go check on him in secret?
Shylock: I would recommend against it. We have essentially been ordered to quarantine ourselves here.
Cain: But we need to find the culprit behind the incident at the Lunar Eclipse Palace....
Shylock: Of course. That is why, until things calm down, we need to do all the investigating we can here at the magic headquarters.
Cain: Investigating? At the magic headquarters......? Wh-what's with this mountain of massive books!?
Shylock: Please research the Umbra Volans.
Cain: ......... You see, I'm not very good at deskwork.....
Shylock: I know very well. You mischievous boy.
Snow: Umbra Volans, Umbra Volans......
White: What was it again......
Chloe: Please try your best to remember! Murr apparently said that you two would know about it!
Right, Murr!
Murr: Looks like it!
Snow: Hmm...... I feel like I might remember if I ate something sweet......
White: Maybe if someone massaged my shoulders......
Chloe: You said that yesterday, too. Geez, you keep repeating yourselves~.
Murr: It's because they're old geezers!
Snow: We're not old geezers!
White: We’re not old geezers~!
Figaro: And we still don't know anything about the piece of equipment that belonged to the Magical Technology Corps, right?
Shylock: Even if they’d found anything, they might not report it to us. For it could very well cause a scandal for Central Country.
Figaro: I'd welcome a scandal or two — otherwise, they're going to start hunting wizards.
Akira: You mentioned that before. What does that mean?
Figaro: Magical technology is fueled by mana stones. Mana stones are the stones of wizards — they contain their magic powers.
Mana stones are being burned more quickly than ever now due to the emergence of magical technology equipment. Eventually, we’ll run into a shortage of mana stones.
And when there's a shortage, what will humans do? I think the Western wizards know the answer to this question.
Shylock. I hear that in Western Country, they hunted magical creatures to the brink of extinction.
Shylock: It's just as you say. With the advancement of science, the West has entered an era of madness.
Western Country has always been lacking in morals. But now that the citizens’ desires have grown exponentially — they've become unstoppable.
Figaro: Back in the day, we thought it was impossible for humans to kill magical beasts. But now there are too many humans.
And with the development of magical science weaponry...... If a weak child like Mitile were attacked, he'd get turned into stone.
I want to prevent that kind of future from coming to pass.
Cain: We need to start by getting people to trust wizards. Where in the world is the root of all evil — Owen?
Snow: I wonder.
White: We’re not close enough to pay him a home visit, you see.
Cain: This is about the Northern wizards, so please, pull yourselves together. What are Owen’s special characteristics?
Snow: He can speak to beasts, such as wolves. He was a huntsman, after all. He's also skilled at absorbing magic.
White: Wizards usually obtain their magic from nature, but Owen is a bit special.
Snow: He gains his power from human emotions. That's why we think he can’t be too far from where humans live......
(Door opens)
Heathcliff: ......Sir Sage.
Akira: Ah...... What is it?
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19.2 A Story to Be Recorded
Heathcliff: I apologize for interrupting, but Shino came across a visitor just now......
Shino: We have guests. Can I bring them in?
Akira: Guests......?
The person that the two Eastern youths bring over is — Central Country’s secretary, Mister Cock Robin.
Alongside a beautiful lady with an air of competence around her.
Cock Robin: It's been a while, Sir Sage. Um, this is......
???: I'm Canary, Cock Robin's wife. Thank you for taking care of my husband.
Could you let me work here too?
Akira: Work here at the magic headquarters......?
Canary: Yes! I just couldn’t sit still after hearing what he told me!
The world was saved thanks to Sir Sage and his wizards, yet you don’t even have anyone to take care of you!
If you don't mind, I'd love to help out — I can do cleaning, laundry, you name it!
Akira: Th...... Thank you!
Canary: That's not all. Come on, say it.
Cock Robin: Hey, give me a moment...... I need to prepare......
Canary: Stop mumbling. Muster up some courage!
Cock Robin: ......
Miss Canary pushes him forward, and Mister Cock Robin approaches me.
He nervously opens his mouth, book and pen in hand.
Cock Robin: I...... I'm a scribe...... Making a record of events is my job.
Akira: Yes......
Cock Robin: I was wondering if you would let me write about everyone here until the next < Great Catastrophe > arrives?
And, if possible, I'd like to report my writings to the castle.
Akira: Why would you...... Is it because you don't trust us......?
Cock Robin: No, it's the other way round. I want them to understand — what wizards are like, and how they saved the world, and so on.
What kind of situation you're in, what you're thinking, what's bothering you...... Neither the people in the castle nor the townspeople know anything about you.
I was the same. That's why I was scared...... But the wizards still saved me.
I want to keep a proper record, so I can convey that wizards are not who people think they are; that they’re working this hard for our sake.
I’m sure I met the previous sage a number of times, but for some reason I can't remember his face or his name......
But if we kept a proper record, then I’m sure we'd all be able to remember. We would know that the Sage was here, and we would remember the things that he did.
Akira: Mister Cock Robin......
Cock Robin: This was actually Sir Drummond's suggestion. But he said to keep it a secret, so please don't tell him......
He said that wizards were the ones who helped us when the world was in trouble — when I was in trouble. He didn't want you to think that humans are all ungrateful.
I recall Mister Drummond’s face, and my chest grows warm.
There are still humans who care about wizards like this.
That alone makes me happy.
Akira: Thank you...... I'm sure everyone else will be delighted too.
Cock Robin: Yes!
Canary: Sir Sage, mister wizards. I'm sure there will be lots of trouble lying ahead of you all, but please never give up.
I'll cheer you on with everything I've got!
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19.3 Injuries
With Mister Cock Robin and Miss Canary’s arrival at the magic headquarters, the wizards begin to regain their spirits.
✦✧☾✧✦
Cock Robin: Time to record everything I can! So when wizards use too much magic, their hearts become exhausted, and they grow fatigued......
Murr: Boo!
Cock Robin: ......You surprised me! Why did you do that?
Murr: Because I like surprising people.
Cock Robin: .....
(Writing sounds)
Cock Robin: The Western wizard Murr enjoys surprising people......
Murr: You’re writing it down! What a diligent guy!
✦✧☾✧✦
Canary: Delicious! I didn't realize the extra step would make it taste so much better.
Nero: Glad I could help. Okay, I need to go now......
Canary: Mister Nero, could you teach me more about cooking from now on? If you don't mind, that is.
Nero: ............
Canary: I'm not that good at cooking, I’d be very grateful for your help.
Nero: I guess...... Once in a while......
Canary: Great! Thank you very much!
Nero: Haha......
You're welcome.
✦✧☾✧✦
Shino: We still don't know what Heath's bizarre injury is?
Heathcliff: Don't bring it up...... I'm getting more and more anxious.
Cain: Hopefully it’s not one of the painful types. Shylock looks like he has it rough. Though it’s pretty inconvenient not being able to see people until I touch them.
Shino: What kind of injury could you handle?
Heathcliff: Umm...... Sneezing yourself into the distance seems kind of fun.
Bradley: You bastard.
Heathcliff: .......I-I didn’t realize you were around.
Bradley: "Seems kinda fun?" This isn't a damn joke.
Shino: Oh, so you get blasted away seriously?
Bradley: The hell!?
Cain: Don't threaten them, Bradley.
Bradley: First things first, you bastards need to......
Ah-choo!!
(Poof)
Shino: .......... He's gone.
Heathcliff: Yeah, that does seem fun.
(Footsteps)
Riquet: I’m sorry! Mitile and I were blowing dandelion puffs!
Mitile: Did they come this way?
Cain: No worries. You guys did a great job.
✦✧☾✧✦
That night—....
I witness a new bizarre injury.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......I woke up in the middle of the night...... Guess I’ll have a cup of tea before I go back to bed......
......Huh......?
What is this......?
A quiet illusion floats along the moonlit corridor.
It’s a cluster of lilac-colored flower petals.
But they disappear in an instant.
Akira: ......Ah...... It turned into snow......
In an instant, the dancing flower petals turn into fine snow.
But the snow disappears before it has a chance to pile up, like churning sea foam dissolving between the waves.
I chase after the wondrous illusion that comes drifting my way from above the stairs.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......It's coming from the door to that room......
That's...... Faust's room......
Lennox: Sir Sage.
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19.4 Overflowing Dreams
Akira: Lennox......
Lennox: What are you doing up so late? ......Where is this snow coming from......?
Akira: It seems to be spilling out from the cracks in Faust's door.
Lennox: Sir Faust’s......
Lennox falls silent.
The dancing snowflakes gradually turn into glowing red sparks.
The sparks don’t catch fire; they simply vanish in silence. But I still grow concerned.
Akira: ......Is this some kind of spell? Lennox, do you know what this is?
Lennox: No......
(Knock knock)
After hesitating for a moment, I knock on Faust’s door.
Akira: Faust...... Faust.
There’s no response.
Under the dark moonlit night, the red glow of the sparks burns even brighter.
Lennox: He might have set up a barrier. Sir Faust is a very cautious person, after all.
Figaro: What are you two up to?
Akira: Figaro......
Figaro calls out to us from below the stairs. Before we can reply, Figaro notices the strange affair and furrows his brows.
The fire burns with greater intensity, the flames curling out from behind the doorframe.
Figaro: Stand back. I'll open the door.
Figaro places his hand on the doorknob and solemnly chants his spell.
Figaro: << Possideo >>
The doorknob turns as the sound of his magic slices through the air.
(Door opens)
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: ......Ah......
I fall silent at the scene that greets us beyond the door.
A blazing, furious fire surrounds the bed where Faust sleeps.
And every corner of the room overflows with strange illusions that crowd around him.
The window reflects the hill of execution. On the ceiling: a boy who looks just like Arthur. Figaro and Lennox are there, too
And Faust, who is surrounded by people who love and respect him, wearing a calm and gentle smile on his face.
Yet I can also see a scene of Faust being crucified and burned at the stake.
Lennox: ......These must be...... Sir Faust's dreams......
Akira: Faust's dreams......
Faust: ......Nn......
Faust stirs slightly. We hold our breath, and Figaro speaks.
Figaro: Let's get out of here before he wakes up.
✦✧☾✧✦
We leave Faust’s room and walk through the courtyard.
The sight we just witnessed is seared into my mind.
Lennox: ......Was that the bizarre injury that the < Great Catastrophe > left on Sir Faust?
Figaro: Probably. It looks like the exact thing he would hate more than anything else in the world.
Akira: Were those illusions in Faust’s room images from his past......?
Figaro: It wasn’t just his past; his desires probably manifested a part of those images, too. I didn't participate in the final battle.
Akira: Why......?
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19.5 The Sight of Betrayal
Figaro: I abandoned the front lines. Faust still resents me for it. But I didn’t leave because I was struck by panic.
Victory was right before our eyes. We all believed the human Alec and the wizard Faust would establish a new, ideal country.
I never thought that Alec would be swayed by his close aides and end up actually executing the wizards.
Akira: ......Execute......
Lennox: Of course it was possible to resist execution. But Sir Faust believed that Sir Alec would never carry it out........
Until the very moment the fire was lit......
Akira: ..........
Lennox: I will never forget that day...... But I never realized that he still dreamed of it so vividly, even now......
I don’t think I could possibly ever imagine.... The sheer depth of his pain.
Figaro: If he discovers the truth about his bizarre injury, Faust will probably say that he’s leaving the magic headquarters.
We all have our pasts that we would rather hide from others. If his overflows while he’s unconscious......
He could probably prevent his dreams from overflowing by establishing an even more powerful barrier, but there’s no reason for him to go through that effort just to stay here.
If we stay silent, then everything will remain within the realm of dreams. He might not realize what's going on...... I'll leave the decision to you, Sir Sage.
Akira: ........... Lennox, are you all right with that?
Lennox: ......I would like you to tell him what's going on. Even if it ultimately leads to Sir Faust leaving the magic headquarters......
I don't want to rob him of anything else that he might trust.
Akira: ............
✦✧☾✧✦
After thinking about it for a night, I decide to tell Faust.
Faust: ............
Faust looks shocked, but he listens till the end without saying a word.
He doesn’t get mad, or try to run away; he simply stands there in silence, as if he’s enduring everything I’m telling him.
Akira: ......If you choose to stay here, I will do anything I can to support you, Faust.
I will figure out how to keep you from getting hurt. I can't force you to stay, but please consider it.
Faust: ............
Why did you tell me? If you had stayed silent, I might never have realized what was going on.
Akira: I really would like you to stay here at the magic headquarters, Faust. But......
Nobody wants other people to find out about their deepest secrets.
Hiding this from you while relying on you for your knowledge and magic — I didn’t want to take advantage of you like that.
I wanted you to believe in me...... I wanted you to stay here because you trusted me.
Faust: ............
......I see. I'll remain.
Akira: Faust......
He lowers his eyes, falling silent.
Faust: ......But I want to set up a powerful barrier to prevent my dreams from overflowing. I’ll head out to the East in order to obtain the appropriate medium.
I will be gone for a while. Is that all right?
Akira: Of course...... Thank you, Faust.
Faust: Not at all.......
Lennox: Sir Faust. Please take me with you.
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19.6 A Prayer in the Depths of His Eyes
Akira: Lennox......
Lennox: I'm sure I can at least serve as a watchguard. Please, let me join you.
Faust looks ambivalent. But he doesn’t glare at Lennox in displeasure; instead, he sighs softly.
Faust: There's nothing I can do for you anymore.
Lennox: I never wished for you to do anything for me. I simply want to be of use to you.
Faust: .......Have you been searching for me all these years?
Lennox: I wandered through many lands. Though I’ve been in the South ever since I met Sir Figaro, the one who taught you magic.
Faust: I see...... I'm sorry.
Lennox smiles gently.
Lennox: Why are you apologizing? I was able to meet you again. And this time, I will follow you to the ends of the earth.
Faust: I'm just looking for a medium. I won't abandon my students and run away — I'm not Figaro.
Lennox: Sir Figaro was worried about you too.
Faust: I wonder about that.
Watching their exchange brings a smile to my face.
Faust, who kept insisting that Lennox had the wrong person, is now accepting him.
His dreams, which weighed him down from every corner of his room, must have been alleviated ever-so-slightly.
As he heads out of the room, Faust turns around to look at me.
Faust: Sage.
Akira: Yes......
Faust: I, too, once wanted the trust of a certain human. But I simply made a fool of myself.
The same thing might happen to you. I might just never return from this journey.
Faust says cynically.
But his gaze isn’t bitter; instead it looks almost longing.
I look him in the eye.
Akira: Even so I....... I want to believe that you will return, so I will wait for you here.
Faust: ............
Akira: Have a safe journey, Faust.
Faust: Hmph......
Faust walks out of the hallway.
I don’t know what he was trying to say, and I don’t know what he wanted to hear from me.... I don’t know if my feelings came across to him.
But I think of Faust’s calm smile from yesterday, and something tells me that this won’t be a lonely last farewell.
Lennox bows to me slightly before chasing after Faust.
And thus, the two of them leave the magical headquarters.
✦✧☾✧✦
The next day, Rutile and the others ask if they can go to the Central capital.
Rutile: We were in the middle of repair work, and I'm still worried about how everyone in Central is doing......
Akira: But what if they chase you away like last time......?
Figaro: It's been a while; we should be all right. People aren't really afraid of Southern wizards anyway.
Mitile: I want to go help alongside nii-sama too! Plus...
Riquet: I want to go, too.
Akira: Riquet......
Riquet: Mitile invited me, so...... I want to see if I can use my powers to help people.
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19.7 An Affable Buddy
Riquet: I'll think about whether I want to return to the Church after that.
Akira: I understand. Everyone, please be careful.
I would be less worried if Lennox were around, but......
Rutile: Mister Leno was able to make up with Mister Faust, right? Mister Leno seemed so happy.
Figaro: It's not like they had a falling out, actually. Faust was just avoiding him. Leno used to be Faust's servant.
Mitile: Mister Faust seemed kind of scary, but if he’s an old friend of Mister Leno, then he must be a good person.
Figaro: That’s right. Well then, Sir Sage, we’ll get going......
Bradley: I'll come with you.
Akira: Bradley......
Bradley: You're going to go help out with repair work, right? I'm joining you to get my pardon. That’s fine by you, right, Sage?
Akira: Y-yes. Of course.
Mitile: But you wanted to ditch so badly......
Rutile: See, everyone here is a kind person at their core. Let's get along, Mister Bradley.
Bradley: Yeah. Give me a sec. I’m gonna get ready.
✦✧☾✧✦
(Water boiling)
Nero: Hmhm~. Let the meat sauce cook overnight~......
Bradley: Hey, come here for a sec.
Nero: Woah!? What the hell are you doing!?
Bradley: Cut the humming. The bloody chef Nero sure lost his edge.
Nero: Shut up......
Bradley: Can I get a bite?
Nero: Not yet, you idiot! What the hell do you want? If you're just here to pick a stupid fight, I'll make it rain pepper.
Bradley: Hold off, you idiot! Hey, tag along with me tonight. We’re gonna sneak off to the Lunar Eclipse Palace in Central.
Nero: The Lunar Eclipse Palace?
Bradley: Yeah. All the treasures they took from me when I got captured are stashed away there. I’m gonna use this opportunity to get them back.
I eavesdropped on the guys from the West. They say the Lunar Eclipse Palace is a mess right now. It’s the perfect opportunity to take everything back.
Nero: Stop messing with me! I said I went clean!
Bradley: It’s not stealing. I'm just taking it back.
Nero: Yeah, and you stole it in the first place......
Bradley: What was that, Nero? Are you gonna put up a fight? Do you think you stand a chance?
Nero: ......I thought getting thrown into jail might’ve helped you fix that attitude, but you really haven’t changed at all......
Bradley: Shut up. You should just listen to my orders.
Nero: ...............
Bradley: Come on, buddy! Fine, I’ll make this the last time. We’ll go our separate ways after this, Nero.
We never finished our last job because I got captured. So let's wreak havoc in the Lunar Eclipse Palace and call that the end.
Nero: ............ So this is really gonna be the last time?
Bradley: That's how I feel right now. But I tend to change my mind easily.
Nero: Sigh...... Fine.
Bradley: Alright. Can I eat this meat sauce?
Nero: Don't touch it, fucker! It still needs to simmer. Want me to turn you into meat sauce?
Bradley: You're so scary, geez......
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19.8 Lord and Vassal
Mithra: Sigh............
Rutile: Mister Mithra.
Mithra: ......What is it?
Rutile: Were you taking an afternoon nap?
Mithra: No...... I've had trouble sleeping lately......
Rutile: I see...... Shall I bring you some herbs that will help with your sleep? You can put them inside your pillow.
Mithra: What do you want from me?
Rutile: Ah...... I'm sorry.
I'm headed off to the Central capital right now. If you'd like, I can collect what you lent to that child.
Mithra: What I lent to who......? What are you talking about?
Rutile: A skinny, intelligent child in the Central capital. He said he was carrying something that belonged to you, Mister Mithra.
Mithra: Huh...... I don't know what you're talking about.
Rutile: I see......
Mithra: You always talk about things that make no sense.
Rutile: ............
I remember them, so they aren't just things that make no sense. To me, they’re precious memories.
Mithra: Okay......
Rutile: ......Sorry for bothering you. I hope you get lots of rest.
Excuse me.
(Footsteps)
Mithra: ............
......Herbs, huh. She loved them too. She always mixed those strange-smelling things into her magical potions.......
I still can't believe that you no longer exist in this world.
The great witch, Tiretta.
✦✧☾✧✦
Rutile: Well then, see you later!
Cock Robin: Mister Rutile! Would you let me ride on your broom? I’d like to make a report to Sir Drummond.
Rutile: Of course, I’d be glad to!
Cock Robin: Thank you!
Canary: Have a safe trip! Take care, dear!
Figaro: You’re a lucky guy, Cock Robin.
Mitile: Riquet, let's compete!
Riquet: Yes! Of course!
Akira: See you later. Take care, everyone.
......Hmm......? I feel like I just saw someone pass by......
Maybe it was just my imagination......
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Looks like the Southern wizards have headed off to Central. I wanted to join them, but the higher-ups have been keeping a close watch on me lately.
Heathcliff: On you? Why?
Cain: See, they've started these baseless rumors. Something about me colluding with a powerful noble from another country, and selling information about the Central troops.
Shino: A powerful noble from another country?
Cain: Yeah. I don't know anyone like that.
Shino: Isn't it this guy?
Heathcliff: I...... I think it might be me......
Cain: Oh, right! I forgot you were something like a nobleman’s son!
Shino: "Something like a nobleman’s son"? Know your place. You're just a former knight; Heath is of higher status than you.
Heathcliff: Yeah, speak for yourself first, Shino.
Shino: What? You were the one who got all embarrassed when I called you "my lord." I wanted to call you that.
Cain: I get you, I get you! It makes you feel like a loyal vassal. I've addressed Prince Arthur like that before.
Heathcliff: And what did Prince Arthur say......?
Cain: He was surprised, and then he laughed.
Shino: The dude's pretty cheerful.
Cain: Hey, don't call him a dude. He's my master.
Heathcliff: You two are peas in a pod. I'll go make some tea.
Cain: Yeah.
Shino: Please.
Heathcliff: ......See, you say all that, but then you make me brew your tea. If we were at home, a servant would be yelling at you right now.
Cain: What was that?
Heathcliff: Haha, it's nothi—......!
Shino: What is it?
Heathcliff: Did you see someone outside the window just now?
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19.9 Lingering in the Shadows
Cain: I mean, I can't see anyone, so... ..........!
I can see him........
Heathcliff: Where are you headed with your sword, Cain!?
Cain: There’s only one guy I can see!
Heathcliff: Who?
Cain: Owen.
(Door opens)
Cain: ............!
Akira: Ah...... Sorry, I forgot to knock. Did I surprise you?
Cain: This voice... Is that you, Sir Sage?
Akira: Yes. Let's shake hands...... Can you see me now?
Cain: Yeah. Be careful. Owen's here in the magic headquarters. I'll go check the courtyard.
Akira: I'll go with you!
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Where are you...... Owen! Owen, show yourself!
The courtyard greenery rustles noisily.
Clouds drift across the clear blue sky, blocking out the sun.
Suddenly, Cain stops walking.
He gazes intently at the shadow of a tall tree, muttering under his breath.
Cain: ......There he is.
He’s right; there's someone hiding in the shadows cast by the tree.
Someone who is gazing in our direction.
Cain: I'll go check. You stay here.
Akira: Yes...... Um, please listen to what Owen has to say. He has no memory of what happened at the time.
Cain: If I listened to Owen, I'd go mad.
Cain narrows his eyes of different colors, and walks closer to the tree.
As Cain approaches, the person standing in the shadows slowly reveals himself.
A ray of sunlight breaks through the clouds, illuminating his face.
Skin as white as a ghost; one eye the color of pale blood, and the other glittering gold.
It's Owen.
He's smiling in delight.
Owen: ......Sir Knight......
Cain: Come on out, Owen......!
Cain tugs roughly at Owen's arm, pulling him towards himself.
Owen looks surprised, and he falls to the ground on his knees.
Cain is baffled, but Owen just gazes up at him in sheer joy.
Owen: Sir Knight......
Cain: What are you saying......? Everyone in the country is looking for you! What did you do to Captain Nicholas!?
Owen: Nicholas told me. He said that you're the strongest knight in the land, Cain.
Cain: ......Owen?
Owen: I thought that if I was a good boy, Sir Knight would come to save me. Did you come to save me?
Cain: What are you saying......?
Cain, taken aback, releases Owen’s hand. But as he does, Owen grabs back onto it like a child pestering him to play.
His smile, bathed in the sunlight filtering through the leaves, looks unlike anything I've seen of Owen before.
It's a smile full of pure hope.
Owen: A dark, damp place. There was nothing but rats and moles. That's where I lived.
I was lonely, but I had a picture book. It was a book about Sir Knight that was half turned to dirt.
He beats up bad guys, and saves people who are in trouble. He finally came. You finally came for me.
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19.10 An Innocent Palm
Owen looks up at Cain with a pure smile spread across his face as his eyes shine with admiration.
He reaches out to touch Cain's face with both his hands.
Cain furrows his eyebrows, but he is frozen in place.
Cain: ...... What are you talking about? I won’t fall for it. You’ve fooled me one too many times playing at weakness and sadness.
And you also stole my eye.
Talking about it seems to snap Cain back to his frustration with Owen, and he shakes off Owen’s hands.
Owen looks heartbroken.
His eyes well up with tears; just watching him is enough to make me feel sad.
Owen: ......Why......
Cain: Stop with your creepy acting! What are you up to!?
Owen: ......Are you mad because I took your eye, Sir Knight......?
Cain: Exactly! Your left eye belongs to me, you know!
Owen: ......I'm sorry......
Cain: D... Did you just say sorry...? Hey, seriously, what's wrong, Owen......
Owen: I'll give it back to you right now...... So don't get mad......
Cain: H... Hey......
Owen looks down and, without hesitation, tries to jab his finger into his left eye.
Owen: ......Uu......
Owen’s face distorts with pain.
Flustered, Cain grabs his arm.
Cain: Stop! Stop it......!
Owen: ............
Realizing that something must be wrong, I rush over to them.
Akira: ......You're bleeding. Let's go treat your eye, Owen.
Owen: ......But......
I look up at Cain, who shakes his head like he doesn’t understand what’s going on, and then sighs.
Cain: ....I'm not mad at you anymore. Let's fix you up.
Owen smiles.
✦✧☾✧✦
Once we’re inside, Owen puts up with our ministrations in an unbelievably docile manner.
Shino: Oh, you hurt the white of your eye. Look this way. I'll do your eyedrops.
Owen: Blep.
Shino: You don't need to stick out your tongue.
Owen: Are eyedrops scary?
Shino: They’re a piece of cake.
Owen: Weh....!
Shino: My bad. I missed.
Owen: ......No more eyedrop......
Shino: Don't give up.
Heath nervously watches Shino as he applies Owen’s eyedrops.
Heathcliff: Amazing...... I can’t believe Owen is obediently letting Shino do his eyedrops.....
Cain: Just watching them is making me go mad...... Why in the world is this happening?
Owen: Sir Knight, Sir Knight.
Cain: ......Er, what?
Owen: I'll do my best with the eyedrops, so please watch me.
Cain: ............
Heathcliff: He’s really attached to you......
Cain: I don't get it......
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19.11 Forbidden Ritual
Owen: Sir Knight, Sir Knight.
Heathcliff: Y... You should say something......
Cain: Y... You got this~. I'm so proud of you. There. There.
Owen: Ehehe......
Weh......!
Shino: My bad. I missed again.
Heathcliff: You know, he would've killed you twice by now......
Owen: ......I don't want to do this anymore......
Shino: You got this. You can totally handle it.
Cain: You’re doing great, I'm so proud of you~.
Heathcliff: Y... Yeah, you can do it~.
Owen’s cheeks end up dripping wet in the process, but Shino manages to finish administering the eyedrops.
Cain: Are you okay?
Owen: Um...... Shino sucks at eyedrops.
Shino: Shut up.
Cain: Can't you use magic? You stole my eye with magic. Don't stick your finger in your eye anymore.
Owen: Nicholas said I was a wizard.
Cain: Nicholas...... Do you remember what you guys talked about? Why did he fall?
Owen: Um...... Because the town was destroyed.
Cain: Because the town was destroyed......?
Owen smiles brightly and gives a tiny nod.
Cain: Can you give me some details?
Owen: Um...... Will you be proud of me if I remember?
Cain: Of course, of course. You got this.
Even Cain’s flippant praise makes Owen happy.
Owen: Um...... Nicholas wanted to become a wizard.
The wizards are keeping it a secret, but if the moon falls, everyone can become a wizard.
That's why, it's better to accept the moon, instead of pushing it away...... That's what he was told.
Akira: Who told him that......?
Owen: Nova.
Akira: Nova......
Owen: He helped with Nova's ritual, and that’s what messed up the town.
He said, "It's my fault, I can't do this anymore, I'm going to take responsibility and leap from here," and then he leapt.
Heathcliff: Take responsibility...... So that really was a suicide attempt?
Shino: Well, if you helped summon the < Great Catastrophe > and it ended up wrecking the whole world, I guess it would make you wanna die.
Akira: So Owen really never manipulated his heart......
If this was the Owen who was with Mister Nicholas back then, I can't imagine that he would’ve been capable of anything like that.
Shino: So is this happening to Owen because of his bizarre injury from the < Great Catastrophe >?
Heathcliff: Most likely...... I can’t believe Owen, who’s like the embodiment of evil and fear, turned into this......
Shino: Isn't he better this way......?
Heathcliff: You’re right......
Cain: No, I prefer him as he usually is. This just makes things hard for me......
Owen: Sir Knight, I remembered.
Cain: I'm so proud of you! I'm proud of you, and I'd also like you to remember a few more things.
Who's Nova? What kind of guy is he?
Owen: Um......
Cain: Did Nicholas say anything?
Owen: ............
Owen’s expression suddenly freezes.
It’s a face that I’ve seen before: he’s frozen, as if at a loss.
Cain is so focused on talking that he doesn't seem to realize.
Cain: Come on, Owen. Do your best, and try to remember. If you do, I'll praise you with my whole heart!
Owen: Oh......
Owen sneers and grabs Cain’s chin.
Cain: ............!
Owen: What are you going to praise me for? Sir Knight.
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19.12 Identity
Cain: This guy......
Akira: Owen......!
The usual Owen stands there, grinning as coldly as always.
He looks around the room and begins to form a sentence.
But at that moment, the door opens.
Snow: Sage!
White: Sage, we figured it out! The identity of the Umbra Volans!
Heathcliff: Sir Snow, Sir White.
Snow: Oh, Owen. I didn't realize you came back to the magic headquarters.
Owen: ............
After a beat, Owen smiles leisurely.
Owen: I can come back whenever I want.
Cain: Stop putting up a front. If this is the same as when Nicholas fell, you shouldn’t remember anything about what happened just now.
Owen: ......What do you mean, just now?
Cain: You were really attached to me.
Shino: You let me do your eyedrops.
Heathcliff: You wanted us to praise you......
Snow: My goodness...... So Owen's bizarre injury completely changes his personality?
White: Or perhaps it's his original.......
Owen: Don’t be ridiculous. At least come up with something better.
Cain: What about this damp, dark place?
Owen: ............
Cain: You said there was a picture book. Where a knight saves people who are in trouble......
Owen: I have no clue what you’re talking about.
Snow: Where are you going, Owen!
White: We need your cooperation! Something horrible is about to happen!
Owen: Then there’s really no reason for me to help. Because I love horrible things.
Owen lifts his chin, a bone-chilling smile on his face.
Owen: The whole world should fall into madness — screaming, blood, and fear.
Cain: Owen......!
And like smoke, Owen vanishes.
Cain: Dammit...... We were so close......
Heathcliff: But we got some really important clues out of him. We should be able to figure out what’s going on once we interrogate Nicholas.
Shino: Snow, White. What about the identity of the Umbra Volans?
Snow: < The Omen of Umbra Volans >.
Shino: The Omen......?
White: A spell that was sealed away in ancient times...... The Festival of the City of the Dead.
Snow: It is a large-scale summoning spell where the dead of the lost city are brought back to life, and every living being is offered up as fodder for their revival.
White: < The Omen of Umbra Volans > is the bird that symbolizes the beginning of this festival.
Snow: Judging from the time it appeared — the dead should begin coming back to life tonight.
Cain: ......Oh god...... But wasn’t the ritual performed at the Lunar Eclipse Palace supposed to summon the moon?
Snow: They offered old human bones instead of living sacrifices, right? That's why the ritual transformed.
White: Nicholas is a military man; his job is to protect the people. I suppose even he could not gather living humans.
Heathcliff: But according to the Western wizards, the same kind of ritual was conducted all over the world......
Shino: Some of them must've actually used living humans. This Nova guy might have guided them from the shadows.
Snow, White. How do we stop this Festival of the City of the Dead?
Snow: Look for the moonstone that was used as the medium.
White: Unless we purify the moonstone, the Umbra Volans will materialize, and the dead will start to come back to life.
Shino: This is a great opportunity to make a name for myself. I'm headed to the capital.
Cain: I'll go too. I need to report this to Prince Arthur.
Heathcliff: I'll join you. What will you do, Sir Snow and Sir White?
Snow: Dusk is approaching. Once the sun has set, Oz cannot use magic.
White: Owen isn't around, so we need to secure Mithra’s assistance. Sage, do help us convince him.
Akira: I understand.
Snow: Thank you. Mithra has been very irritable lately, you see.
White: It must be due to sleep deprivation. He needs to stop staying up all night......
Akira: Cain, Heathcliff, Shino. I'm counting on you.
Shino: We’re headed off.
Heathcliff: Please take care, Sir Sage!
Cain: I apologize for leaving your side. Please leave the capital to us.
Akira: Got it! Please take care!
The dead are coming back to life tonight...... I think of Snow and White’s words, and a chill runs down my spine.
I need to do what I can, and face each task in front of me in order to protect everyone.
I take a deep breath and leave the room.
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Chapter 18 << | index | >> Chapter 20