healingbonds (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
healingbonds) wrote2020-08-13 08:11 pm
healingbonds) wrote2020-08-13 08:11 pm
Entry tags:
- .blanchett,
- .mahoyaku,
- .spot story,
- .translation,
- arthur,
- cain,
- chloe,
- faust,
- heathcliff,
- nero,
- rustica,
- shino
Blanchett Castle | All Sub-Episodes
Read the main Blanchett Castle Spot Story
MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Blanchett Castle
Spot Memories (1)-(3)
Impressions of Heathcliff (1)-(5)
Heathcliff's Reputation
The Reason He Cried
On the < Great Catastrophe >
A Dangerous Place
Spot Discovery
A Fun Place
Break Time (1)(2)
Spot Impressions (1)-(3)
Spot-Related Story (1)(2)
Wizard at the Spot
People at the Spot
On Eastern Country
Spot Specialty
SPOT MEMORIES (1)
Akira: Blanchett Castle is so lovely. Heath, do you have a favorite spot inside the castle?
Heathcliff: I feel at ease in my own room. I can immerse myself in my hobby, after all.
Ah.... And the library. There are all sorts of books there — from history books to manuals on etiquette to novels.
Plus, when I’m there, I can sense my father’s kindness.....
Akira: Kindness?
Heathcliff: Sometimes, I find new books about machines and clockwork stacked onto the shelves.
I think he secretly gathered them because they looked like books that I would enjoy.
Akira: That sounds lovely.... What a wonderful father!
Heathcliff: Yes. He can be strict sometimes, but he’s a kind and amazing person — he’s my ideal.
....Ah. You’re out of tea. Sir Sage, should I pour you some more?
Akira: Thank you. I think I’ll have another cup.
(Heath is always so nonchalantly courteous, but... He might have gotten it from his father.)
SPOT MEMORIES (2)
Akira: Heath, you and Shino are childhood friends, right? Did Shino come over to visit your room?
Heathcliff: He did, but.... It was really only once in a while.
Akira: Really? That’s surprising. I thought Shino would really want to visit you, Heath.
Heathcliff: .....Shino was a servant assigned to outside grounds, so he wasn’t permitted inside the castle.
Ah, I mean, Shino wasn’t the only one — all the servants who are assigned to work outdoors just aren’t allowed inside the castle.
So Shino would get scolded if anyone found him visiting my room.
Akira: I see.... Didn’t that make you feel lonely, Heath?
Heathcliff: To be honest, yes, I felt lonely.... But there were happy memories too.
Sometimes Shino would sneak up to the window and show me squirrels, or check in on how I was doing on stormy days.
Before I knew it, the sound of knocking on my window would make my heart beat with excitement.
His voice gently trails off. I look at Heath, and he smiles.
Heathcliff: Maybe that was how we became friends.
SPOT MEMORIES (3)
Shino: Until I was assigned to guard Sherwood Forest, I worked as a servant of Blanchett Castle running small errands and taking care of the gardens.
Akira: What kind of work did that entail?
Shino: It’s a huge castle, so there’s lots to do. Cleaning the gardens, keeping watch, taking care of the horses, polishing the wagons and farm equipment.....
It’s the lowest level job in the castle. But I had a roof over my head, and they kept me fed, too; it was incredible.
I liked taking care of the gardens. There’s a gardener who specializes in the area, but I helped him out every once in a while. That tree by the hedge over there — I planted that.
Akira: Oh, the short one right by the road?
Shino: —Gonna get bigger.
Akira: I wasn’t talking about you, Shino......
Shino: That tree is special. When winter comes round, it blossoms with white flowers. My tree is the only tree that blooms in the winter.
So when the buds started to appear, I’d snap off a branch and bring it to Heath. Heath would always place that branch in a vase and leave it by his window.
I liked to gaze at that window while working in the gardens.
Someone knows about the work that I do. My job brings a little spark of joy to the Young Master Heath’s room, even in the wintertime. That’s why.....
No matter how small the job, I felt proud of my work. That’s how working at Blanchett made me feel.
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IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (1)
Akira: I feel like Heathcliff really trusts you as a teacher, Faust. Were you two close before I arrived at the magic headquarters?
Faust: .........
I really didn’t mean to interact more than necessary with any of the Sage’s wizards, but I simply couldn’t leave Heathcliff alone, and lent him a hand.
Because he was being dragged around by a man who could hardly use magic, didn’t know a single thing, and had a shitty personality to top it off.
Akira: This is about Heathcliff’s former teacher, right....? He must have been really awful for you to describe him like that, Faust.....
Faust: That man was insecure because his magic was weak, and because of how Eastern Country treats wizards — and he took that insecurity out on Heathcliff.
Yet Heath still tried to follow his bidding. I couldn’t stand the sight of it, so I tried to help him.
Akira: I’m sure Heathcliff was truly relieved to learn magic properly.
Faust: I haven’t taught him anything outstanding. His former teacher was simply that awful.
But ever since I helped him, no matter how many times I tell him, "I’m not the kind of wizard you think I am," he firmly believes that I am benevolent.
....It makes it difficult to be mean to him.
Akira: To be mean? Faust, you’re a kind person too; just treat him normally.
Faust: Having connections with a curseworker will simply taint his family name.
That child is fulfilling his duty as the son of nobles, and as a Sage’s wizard.
It would be a problem for him to be so attached to me. I need to draw the line somewhere.
....He’s still inexperienced, though, so this will only happen when he’s ready for it.
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IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (2)
Akira: Shino, how do you feel about Heathcliff?
Shino: I think he’s so cool.
He also has a beautiful face, and he’s kind and brilliant to top it off. Most importantly, he’s my lord.
Akira: Is he your ideal master?
Shino: He does have his imperfections.
He’s shy and withdrawn. But if he can fix that, he’ll be perfect.
You think Heath is an incredible guy too, don’t you?
Akira: Yes. I think he’s a lovely person.
Shino: Exactly. Anyone who doesn’t get that is a fool. There’s no need to listen to fools.
In the end they’re only complaining because they’re scared of wizards, and don’t want us to approach their poor weak souls.
Heath should just leave them alone, but he’s too kind.
Akira: Shino, have you ever imagined what it would be like if you were Heath’s master?
I mention a thought that just popped into a mind — and Shino blinks in surprise.
Shino: I’ve never even thought about it.
I always believed it was my role to protect Heath — to protect Blanchett. I never once considered making them follow my bidding.
That’s a knavish question, Sir Sage.
IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (3)
Akira: Nero, how do you feel about Heathcliff?
Nero: I can empathize with him as a fellow Eastern wizard. I can’t help but worry about him, you know?
Akira: Empathize.... What do you think you and Heathcliff have in common?
Nero: Heath likes tinkering with machines, right? I can understand the urge to shut yourself in your room and focus all your attention on your task.
Immersing yourself in the details of an activity — it brings a quiet and inexplicable sense of joy.
> Option: I understand.
Nero: Right, right....? But there are plenty of guys in this world who just don’t get that feeling......
> Option: I don’t understand.
Nero: You don’t, huh.... Well, I guess that’s the kind of personality that helps you adjust to living in a totally different world.
Nero: Luckily for me, I could make that activity my job, but that probably isn’t the case for Heath; he has it rough for the next couple decades or so.
Akira: I guess you’re forced into social activities when you’re the son of nobles, and next in line to be lord.....
Nero: I bet it was really rough for him, being born an Eastern wizard and a noble, especially considering his personality.
Though I’m not too worried, because Heath might be reticent, but Shino brazenly stands by his side to make up for it.
He’s also a gentle, good guy, so plenty of people are willing to lend him a hand. That makes me feel more at ease for him.
IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (4)
Akira: Heathcliff told me that you took great care of him when he first arrived at the magic headquarters, Cain.
Cain: Haha. I didn’t really take care of him. I just heard he was a young lord, but he was surprisingly shy and I just couldn’t leave him alone.
The man who arrived with him — his teacher — bossed him around, and the Eastern witch and Faust both ignored him in the beginning.
It was also the first time that a wizard younger than me was chosen to fight the catastrophe, so I saw it as my job.
Akira: Before I arrived, there weren’t many wizards who lived in the magic headquarters, right?
Cain: Yup. For the most part, everyone just gathered on the day we had to fight the catastrophe. Though there were guys who dropped by to hang out once in a while.
The ones who spent a lot of time in the magic headquarters were... me, Heath, the previous sage, and a couple of other guys.
> Option: Why did you stay in the magic headquarters?
Cain: I had just quit the Order of the Knights, so it was hard for me to stay in the Central capital because of.... The rumors, you know?
That’s why it was the perfect place for me. I got along with the previous sage, and I also got the whole magic headquarters to myself. It felt great.
Heath showed up at least once a month. I think he was interested in the magic headquarters and the wizards who were there.
Akira: He was interested? That’s kind of surprising, considering how shy Heathcliff is.
Cain: He had never met a wizard aside from Shino and his teacher. Heath was struggling, thinking about his status and upbringing as a noble.
He said he wanted to know how other wizards lived their lives.
> Option: What did you do at the magic headquarters?
Cain: The magic headquarters used to be a really peaceful, laid-back place. We all just lived our lives there.
Whenever Heath came to visit, we’d head out to have fun in the Central capital, or I’d teach him a couple things about magic. Sometimes we played card games with the previous sage.
He also talked about Shino all the time. He said he had a childhood friend who was a little bit arrogant, surly, cheeky, and fun — like a little brother.
So when I met Shino for the first time, I was pretty moved. I thought, oh! It’s this guy! He’s exactly how I imagined him!
Akira: Ahaha.
Cain: He also told me all about this castle and Sherwood Forest. He said this region was a great place that he loved.
That’s why I’m happy I got to visit Heath’s home.
IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (5)
Akira: Chloe, you and Heathcliff get along very well.
Chloe: Eh! Do you think so? That makes me happy, but I wonder how Heath feels? Do you think it just bothers him?
Akira: I don’t think it bothers him at all.... Are you worried?
Chloe: But he lives in such a fancy castle. He’s always so kind to me, but it made me think, wow, he really is a noble!
Fufu. Heath is such a lovely person. I actually admire him a tiny bit, so whenever Heath likes and wears the clothes I make, I feel so, so happy!
Heath likes craftwork and engraving, right? That’s why I consult him about accessory designs from time to time.
And that’s when our conversations really get rolling! So I tried asking him if he wanted to work on a collaboration together, but....
Akira: Oh, I’d love to see a collaborative design between you and Heath! What did he say?
Chloe: Umm, well....
He was kinda like, I’d love to give it a try, but I’m afraid of what will happen if we disagree with each other; I don’t want us to fight.....
Akira: Ah.... I can kind of understand.
Chloe: I want to know what Heath is particular about, and if we’re working together, I definitely want the final product to be amazing, so if I have an opinion, I know I’ll tell him, and I want him to do the same.
But those feelings might just burden Heath even more.
That’s why I want to make this collaboration real once we’re close enough to know each other’s boundaries — so that Heath can have lots of fun working on the project too!
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HEATHCLIFF’S REPUTATION
Akira: Faust. Who were you speaking to? You seem to be in surprisingly high spirits.....
Faust: That "surprisingly" was unnecessary. I was talking to the chief butler of Blanchett Caslte. He was telling me about Heathcliff.
Heath is an even more amazing child than I thought. He’s an excellent student, a skilled equestrian, and very knowledgeable about the region on top of that.
When the master of the castle is away, sometimes he solves problems that arise. No wonder Shino adores him.
Akira: I didn’t know that. I thought he was mature for his age, but he’s always so soft-spoken....
Faust: His personality gets in the way of his talent. If Heath weren’t a wizard....
We might have seen a dashing and confident young man striding through these castle grounds.
Akira: Faust.....
Faust: But then he never would have admired me as his teacher.
I can’t tell which situation would have brought greater happiness. For even if he is a wizard, Shino and all the people at the castle love him.
....In any case, I pray that he will live a wonderful life.
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THE REASON HE CRIED
Shino: I made Heath cry by this fountain in the past.
Akira: Huh. When you were little?
Heathcliff: Shino....! Don’t tell Sir Sage anything embarrassing.....!
Akira: Did you fight?
Shino: We did fight lots, but that’s not why he cried. This was where I told him about myself. Do you remember that day, Heath?
Heathcliff: ...I do remember.
Back when I had just gotten to know Shino.... Back when we were both very young — Shino told me about his life before he came to work at the castle.
Shino lived on his own for as long as he could remember, and he was treated so horribly all through his life....
And I was a sheltered child of nobles, so I couldn’t even imagine how miserable his life was; his stories shocked me, and made me so sad, and....
Shino: Heheh. Heath was so beautiful when he cried. I wanted to see him cry more, so I kept talking.
Akira: Shino, you’re so strong; it’s such a relief.....
Heathcliff: He went on, describing all sorts of experiences that made me want to put my hands to my ears, but I couldn’t just coldly cut him off like that.....
Shino: Someone from the castle spotted us, and they almost yelled at me, but Heath came to my rescue.
He said that he fell into the fountain, and I saved him. But his face was the only part of him that was wet. Heath was such a terrible liar as a kid.
And later that evening, he gave me a slice of lemon pie that Mistress baked. That was an exceptionally good day for me at Blanchett.
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ON THE < GREAT CATASTROPHE >
Akira: How did you spend the day when the < Great Catastrophe > approached?
Heathcliff: We would prepare a supply of emergency food a few days in advance, and on the day of the attack, we stayed inside the castle.
We’d never suffered any damage, year after year, but I had heard that the world would end if the < Great Catastrophe > weren’t sent back, so.....
Death had never felt closer to me as a child. I kept thinking, what if tomorrow never comes?
Akira: Of course.... Of course you’d be nervous if the world were in danger of ending every year....
Heathcliff: But... There was something I looked forward to, too.
Akira: Something you looked forward to?
Heathcliff: When the < Great Catastrophe > attacks, all the servants spend the day within the castle.
So it was a rare opportunity to stay by Shino’s side until morning, without the grown-ups yelling at us.
I was terrified of the < Great Catastrophe >, but I also secretly prepared sweets and toys just for that day......
Akira: Ahaha! That’s so cute!
Heathcliff: To this day, whenever I’m with Shino in the middle of the night, I remember that excitement....
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A DANGEROUS PLACE
Shino: Sage. Why are you headed down that road?
Akira: Ah, Shino. I was just taking a walk — I wanted to know what was over here.
....? Why are you grinning....?
Shino: Heath will never come near here. Can you tell why?
> Option: Is it a dangerous place?
Shino: There’s nothing dangerous for wizards near this castle. I’m protecting it, after all.
> Option: Is it a scary place?
Shino: Fufu. There’s nothing scary about it. But maybe it is scary to Heath.
> Option: Is it somewhere nobles aren’t allowed to enter?
Shino: There’s nowhere nobles can’t enter. They’re the ones who make the rules, after all. There are plenty of places where we servants aren’t allowed, though.
Shino: There’s a well down this road that’s rumored to be haunted by a ghost.
Akira: A ghost....?
Shino: Once upon a time, a maid dropped and broke the household’s treasured plate and threw herself into the well because she couldn’t stand the punishment administered by the head butler.
To this day, you can still hear her cries from the bottom of the well, as she scrambles in search of the lost plate......
???: Wah!!
Akira: Aaaaaaaagh!?
Nero: Ahaha, Mister Sage, that was one impressive scream.
Shino: Nice one, Nero.
They say Blanchett has been a little bit nicer to lady servants since then. Because if they treat them poorly, the maid will curse them.
Heath is terrified of the rumor; that’s why he won’t approach the well. But he’s kind to everyone, so there’s no reason for him to be so scared.
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SPOT DISCOVERY
Akira: Wow.... There’s a fancy stone statue in the courtyard. Blanchett Castle isn’t just full of clockwork machinery — there are so many ornaments and works of art, too.
Nero: Yeah. The stuff inside the castle was amazing. The carpets, the pillars, the silverware, the paintings hanging in the hallways — it was all the finest quality.
Akira: I-I didn’t know that! Thank goodness I didn’t touch it out of curiosity....
Huh? Now that I look at it, this statue has jewels in its eyes.
Nero: It must’ve been crafted in the West. It’s a little flashy compared to the stuff made by Eastern craftsmen.
The craftsmen of this country are meticulous about their jobs and produce delicate works; that’s why it’s easy to tell when an artifact is from the East.
Akira: How about this bench over here? The gold decorations are very beautiful, but... It’s really flashy, so is it also from Western Country?
Nero: No. This was crafted in Central Country. They’ve used an expensive wood and the form is pretty sturdy.
Well, I bet they’re all tributes. This place is filled with stuff that would sell for a hefty price; I can’t stop looking left and right.
Akira: .......
Nero: What’s wrong, Mister Sage. You’ve got a curious expression on your face.
Akira: I was just thinking you know an awful lot about works of art. Did you learn about art history somewhere? Or did you have a lot of opportunities to see these sorts of artifacts?
Nero: Haha... Nope, not at all. I’m just giving you half-assed explanations, hoping I might be right.
Doesn’t everyone think, "Huh, I bet this thing would fetch a hefty price," when they see artifacts like these?
Akira: H-hmm.... I’m not too sure about that....?
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A FUN PLACE
Akira: That was a fun tour of Blanchett Castle! Nero, was there anything that left an impression on you?
Nero: I guess it was the castle kitchen. The kitchen itself is spacious, and the storehouse is really nice. The furnace was also first-class.
There really are a lot of craftsmen in this area; everything was well-designed.
You could tell how proud the kitchen staff are of the food they deliver to their master just by seeing how sharp the kitchen knives were.
Akira: I see. Is it any different from the kitchens in the city restaurants?
Nero: Oh, it’s completely different. For starters, the quality of the tools they use is different. The pots are all made by renowned craftsmen who use the finest metals and clay.
The silverware is all top-quality, too. Look at the delicate workmanship on this one.
Akira: D-did you just take this with you?
Nero: I’ll return it to Heath later. Heat travels better through well-made pots and furnaces. When the silver is good, the food tastes good.
The grill was great — it was so huge! I want to broil some meat on a skewer over that grill. It’d taste great. The coal was fancy too.
I thought it’d be nice if that kitchen were part of the magic headquarters. I could cook all sorts of different foods.
Akira: I see.... So you’re also particular about your kitchen set-up, Nero.
Do you have any other requests for the kitchen in the magic headquarters? Is there anything you want?
Nero: I mean, of course I do. But when you start to get particular about the set-up and the tools you use, there’s just no end to it all.
So I try to keep those urges to a minimum. But man, I wanna try cooking there just once....
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BREAK TIME (1)
Akira: There are lots of clockwork-powered objects scattered throughout Blanchett Castle. It’s really fun watching them move.
Heathcliff: Yes — there’s an interesting twist to this fountain, too. It should start moving right about now.....
(Musical tune)
Akira: Woah...! I can hear music playing. Heath, what’s the trick behind this fountain—?
Heathcliff: .........
Akira: Wh-what’s wrong? Is something bothering you?
Heathcliff: .....! I was spacing out. I’m sorry.
Akira: No, it’s fine. It’s rare for you to space out like that.
Heathcliff: Haha.... I’m really fond of this fountain, you see.
Akira: You’re fond of it.... Is there some kind of intricate machinery behind it all?
Heathcliff: I do love the machinery, but that’s not all — I also love the experiences that happen around this fountain.
I get excited whenever I hear this music playing, and.... Ever since I was little, I enjoyed reading books by the fountain.
....Ah! I got sidetracked. Let me explain what’s going on with the machinery.
The water pressure causes the pipe organ to play at certain increments of time. And....
Akira: (Heath looks like he’s really enjoying himself. He’s usually so calm, but when it comes to mechanics, he really acts like a kid his age.)
BREAK TIME (2)
Akira: Faust.... Wow, a whole table and a tea set in the courtyard. Are you having a fancy tea party on your own?
Faust: ....I was simply waiting for Heathcliff because there was something we needed to do, but...... The castle servants spotted me, and here we are now.
Faust is sitting at a finely decorated table with far too many snacks and sweets and tea for one person.
Akira: They’ve welcomed you quite kindly, I see.....
Faust: I tried to tell them that treating me like a guest of honor would just cause me unnecessary trouble, but I couldn’t refuse them in front of Heath.
Many of the servants came by to greet me. Heathcliff must have spoken of me very highly.
I really wanted to tell them that they had the wrong man.
Akira: I heard that you were injured during the last battle with the catastrophe because you were protecting Heath. You’re their savior too, Faust.
Faust: It was just a coincidence. I can’t say it’ll happen again. It’s just more trouble for me if they have high hopes — and are later disappointed.
Faust says, but his expression is far kinder than his words.
The fancy plates and sweets prepared for their precious guest feel like expressions of love for Heathcliff himself — and that makes me incredibly happy.
Perhaps Faust feels the same way.
Akira: May I join you?
Faust: Yes. Please eat to your heart’s content. When Heathcliff comes back, let’s have him help us out as well.
We’ll handle our job after that.
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SPOT IMPRESSIONS (1)
Akira: Cain, how do you feel about Blanchett Castle and the surrounding region?
Cain: As a knight, I’m curious about the structure of this castle. Like, it’d be hard to attack this region; this part looks powerful.
Akira: You see it as a place to be conquered?
Cain: Well, it could very well be a place I attack one day. Plus, I’d want to take the good parts and implement them in Central Country.
Akira: I see.... You think like a soldier.
Cain: From a personal perspective, uh..... I feel like.... The guys in this castle don’t really like me....?
Akira: Huh!? I don’t think so, but did someone say something to you!?
Cain: I feel like they’re strangely harsh...? I can’t see their faces, though, so it might just be my imagination.
Heathcliff: Cain!
Cain: Hey, Heath.
Akira: (He put his arm around his shoulder so naturally. They look like brothers; how nice. ...Hm?)
(....! The butler is glaring at him with a terrifying expression!)
(Oh, of course! He’s a former general from another country getting all buddy-buddy with their precious young master....)
Butler: Ahem! Mister Wizard from Central Country. You are currently visiting Blanchett Castle.
Cain: Hm? I know that. Thanks for informing me!
Akira: (Eastern Country people tend to use roundabout expressions, and Cain doesn’t get it unless he’s told directly..... Yeah, this isn’t a great combination....)
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (2)
Akira: Rustica, you’re also a noble. What do you think of Blanchett Castle?
Rustica: It’s a lovely castle. If the castles of Western Country are roses, the castles of Eastern Country are bellflowers.
Just standing here makes me feel like I need to try my best.
Akira: (Rustica does look perfect standing in front of the castle....)
Rustica: But....
I also feel like relaxing a bit, and putting on a delightful and showy performance. In fact, that’s how I feel right now.
I’m glad you’re here to be my audience, Sir Sage. << Amorest Viesse >>.
Akira: Huh!?
When Rustica utters his spell, a percussion mallet and a metallophone the size of his hand appear.
As Rustica plays the metallophone, its sound echoing across the courtyard, the water in the fountain dances high into the sky.
(Splash)
It reaches beyond the castle roof and scatters into rainbow-colored droplets.
Castle person: Wh-what’s going on!?
Akira: Ru-Rustica. People are gathering....
Rustica: Oh my. Looks like we have an audience. Well then, I really need to take this to another level — the real show starts now.
Akira: Wait, no....
Rustica: << Amorest Viesse >>
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (3)
Akira: Huh, Arthur. I didn’t realize you were here at Blanchett.
Arthur: Shh. I apologize, Sir Sage, but please keep it a secret that I’m here.
Because if Heathcliff’s parents and the people at the castle find out about me, they’ll be forced to take extra care.....
Akira: I can see that — if the prince from the neighboring kingdom dropped by out of nowhere, the whole place would be in chaos.... Is there something you need to do here?
Arthur: No, I’m just here on a personal trip. Shino and I were talking about our homelands, so he told me he would guide me around the forest and the castle, and brought me here.
Akira: (I guess Shino wanted to show off.....)
Arthur: And it’s just as Shino says — Sherwood Forest, which surrounds this castle, is vast and has a noble air to it.
I hear the forest functions as a natural defense; I can see why they call this place impregnable.
Shino must truly be an excellent guardian if they let him take care of these woods. I’m sure everyone thinks highly of him.
Shino: Oh, there you are, Prince. This way. Follow me.
Arthur: All right.
Akira: Are you headed to the castle?
Shino: We’re gonna sneak into Heath’s room. I bet he’ll be surprised when he sees Arthur.
Arthur: This is getting exciting!
Akira: (So it’s a surprise.....)
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SPOT-RELATED STORY (1)
Akira: How long ago was this castle built?
Heathcliff: It was built even before Granvelle Castle in Central Country — so quite a long time ago.
The current castle was established after a war in Eastern Country.
> Option: When you say the current castle....
Akira: Does that mean there was a previous Blanchett Castle elsewhere?
Heathcliff: Yes. My family originally lived in a powerful fortress that was built in order to establish order within these lands.
But the rampart was getting old, so they decided to build a new castle right here.
The current castle has no rampart, but the surrounding valleys and woodlands work just like a defensive wall.
> Option: So it’s a castle with a rich history!
Akira: Does that mean your family goes back many generations?
Heathcliff: Yes. The Blanchett family has presided over these lands since the establishment of Eastern Country.
The royal family of Eastern Country had always trusted the lord of these lands, but when the war put the family at risk of decline—...
The lord saved the king by sheltering him here. That was how the Blanchetts became a powerful noble family.
Akira: I see.... Thank you for telling me all this, Heath. You know this castle’s history very well.
Heathcliff: Haha.... My father has told me these stories over and over again ever since I was little.
When I become a father one day, will I tell the same stories to my children...? Honestly, I still can’t imagine it.
SPOT-RELATED STORY (2)
Akira: So your ancestors lived in a different castle before this one was built.
What’s the difference between the two?
Heathcliff: The old castle had a solid rampart, but with the advancement of battle tactics and weaponry, it gradually ceased to function as a proper defense.
The lord of the castle — my ancestor, rich with foresight — chose to use the valleys and woodlands of Sherwood Forest as a kind of natural rampart.
That’s why this place was constructed so that the castle can be augmented and extended to respond to various battle tactics.
But there was plenty of opposition to the building of a new castle — it required much capital and labor, after all.
Akira: That sounds like trouble.... And how did your ancestor settle these dissenting voices?
Heathcliff: Perhaps through his popularity. I hear that he was an honest and intelligent man, after all.
And in truth, during times of war, Blanchett Castle turned out to be a great help to our national defense.
Akira: So this castle protected this country and its people....! Heath, your ancestor must have been such a judicious person.
Heathcliff: Yes. When I first heard this tale, I realized how important it is to gain trust, and to calmly and objectively forecast future events.
I hope that I can one day do the same.....
Akira: (I see. Heath will be the future lord of this castle....)
I’m sure you’ll be able to, Heath. I can tell from our everyday conversations that you evaluate things calmly and carefully.
Heathcliff: ....Thank you, Sir Sage. It’ll do my best, bit by bit.
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WIZARD AT THE SPOT
Akira: You met your master of magic at this castle, right?
Shino: Yeah. He was a real shitty old man. He was a boastful, gloomy drunkard who wouldn’t stop bragging about his empty achievements.
Akira: You’re tearing him apart....
Shino: It’s the truth. His tyrannical attitude made me wince. I put up with a lot.
He was the man Master and Mistress brought on for Heath’s sake, so Heath had no choice but to quietly obey him in order to avoid embarrassing his parents.
Akira: I see......
Shino: There're a lot of wizards in Eastern Country who keep quiet about the fact that they’re wizards.
I always thought, if you’re gonna live a gloomy life where you whine about humans behind their backs, why not just get back at them using magic? But.....
Now I realize that the guys who step up and announce that they’re wizards are also full of crap.
Akira: Maybe that’s just what the people here are like.....
Shino: Who knows. If this were a country where good wizards like Heath and Faust stood out, humans wouldn’t look down on us, but they don’t want any attention.
I was really worried when Heath and our master were both chosen as sage’s wizards; they didn’t come back from the magic headquarters for a while.
But now, I can take care of Heath right by his side — it’s a relief. Plus, I get to learn magic properly.
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PEOPLE AT THE SPOT
Akira: What are the people who live in the Blanchett region generally like?
Heathcliff: Most people here are serious and prideful about their work. They treasure their friends and family.
People in the capital of the Town of Rain often avoid interacting with others as much as possible, but....
There are many craftsmen and farmers around here, so they’re all connected to their village chiefs and bosses in a hierarchy.
Blanchett Castle is a key strategic point in this country, so when necessary, the common people become soldiers. I guess that’s why they can be seen as militaristic.
People smile around here more often than they used to — back in the time of my grandparents, that kind of attitude was deemed to be frivolous.
Akira: So they’re rather militaristic, huh.....
Heathcliff: That’s what the region is generally like.... Neither my parents nor I are really like that, but....
Past generations established many military achievements here, and the economy is constant and steady, so there’s an awareness that this region is crucial to Eastern Country.
But my father seems careful to ensure that our voice doesn’t get too powerful.
Akira: Why is that?
Heathcliff: To keep the royal family from suspecting a rebellion.
That’s why.... Shino’s desire for accomplishments is actually very dangerous.
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ON EASTERN COUNTRY
Akira: Heathcliff, how do you feel about Eastern Country?
Heathcliff: Let’s see.... It’s my mother country, so of course I love it — the nature is beautiful, and the people are calm and quiet.
It may be a country that shuns wizards, but wizards aren’t the only heretical disturbances that people shy away from....
Akira: I see.
Heathcliff: People who don’t know how to cooperate with others always stand out. And craftsmen, farmers, and ranchers are the favored professions in Eastern Country.
They’re considered reliable, steady lifestyles, after all. There are famous artists in Eastern Country; yet if someone aspires to become an artist, people treat them coldly.
People will cheer for those who study hard to become professors; yet they think those who come up with strange inventions are complete eccentrics.
Akira: Then it must be difficult for Western wizards to live in Eastern Country.
Heathcliff: I think so.... People here are good at moving in lockstep, so those who fail to keep the pace are considered selfish.
The flipside is that when everyone works together, the group wields incredible strength. Eastern Country has always had a powerful army.
At times, I find that just a bit... Scary.
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SPOT SPECIALTY
Heathcliff: The Blanchett region is known for its delicate crafts made of rich wood.
The cuckoo clocks inform you of the hour; they’re particularly popular among visitors.
Akira: Cuckoo clocks — I’ve seen one at a friend’s house before. So those also run on clockwork machinery.
Heathcliff: The furniture is also popular. Furniture made in the Blanchett region is known for lasting for three generations.
We also use advanced techniques for furniture engravings and metal carvings. Our elegant and careful designs are known as Blanchett engravings.
I like them too..... I was the one who did the engravings on my magic tool — my pocket watch — and Shino’s scythe as well.
Akira: That’s amazing! Now I’m beginning to want some furniture for myself. Maybe I’ll take a look at the store in town.
Heathcliff: Please let me join you. If anything strikes your fancy, I will gift it to you.
Akira: Are you sure?
Heathcliff: Of course. Though I feel like our castle craftsmen would insist on creating a specialized piece of furniture just for you, Sir Sage.
Akira: (A made-to-order, top-class quality piece of furniture.... I feel like I’d never want to go home.)
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MahoYaku Masterpost & Translator's Notes
Blanchett Castle
Spot Memories (1)-(3)
Impressions of Heathcliff (1)-(5)
Heathcliff's Reputation
The Reason He Cried
On the < Great Catastrophe >
A Dangerous Place
Spot Discovery
A Fun Place
Break Time (1)(2)
Spot Impressions (1)-(3)
Spot-Related Story (1)(2)
Wizard at the Spot
People at the Spot
On Eastern Country
Spot Specialty
SPOT MEMORIES (1)
Akira: Blanchett Castle is so lovely. Heath, do you have a favorite spot inside the castle?
Heathcliff: I feel at ease in my own room. I can immerse myself in my hobby, after all.
Ah.... And the library. There are all sorts of books there — from history books to manuals on etiquette to novels.
Plus, when I’m there, I can sense my father’s kindness.....
Akira: Kindness?
Heathcliff: Sometimes, I find new books about machines and clockwork stacked onto the shelves.
I think he secretly gathered them because they looked like books that I would enjoy.
Akira: That sounds lovely.... What a wonderful father!
Heathcliff: Yes. He can be strict sometimes, but he’s a kind and amazing person — he’s my ideal.
....Ah. You’re out of tea. Sir Sage, should I pour you some more?
Akira: Thank you. I think I’ll have another cup.
(Heath is always so nonchalantly courteous, but... He might have gotten it from his father.)
SPOT MEMORIES (2)
Akira: Heath, you and Shino are childhood friends, right? Did Shino come over to visit your room?
Heathcliff: He did, but.... It was really only once in a while.
Akira: Really? That’s surprising. I thought Shino would really want to visit you, Heath.
Heathcliff: .....Shino was a servant assigned to outside grounds, so he wasn’t permitted inside the castle.
Ah, I mean, Shino wasn’t the only one — all the servants who are assigned to work outdoors just aren’t allowed inside the castle.
So Shino would get scolded if anyone found him visiting my room.
Akira: I see.... Didn’t that make you feel lonely, Heath?
Heathcliff: To be honest, yes, I felt lonely.... But there were happy memories too.
Sometimes Shino would sneak up to the window and show me squirrels, or check in on how I was doing on stormy days.
Before I knew it, the sound of knocking on my window would make my heart beat with excitement.
His voice gently trails off. I look at Heath, and he smiles.
Heathcliff: Maybe that was how we became friends.
SPOT MEMORIES (3)
Shino: Until I was assigned to guard Sherwood Forest, I worked as a servant of Blanchett Castle running small errands and taking care of the gardens.
Akira: What kind of work did that entail?
Shino: It’s a huge castle, so there’s lots to do. Cleaning the gardens, keeping watch, taking care of the horses, polishing the wagons and farm equipment.....
It’s the lowest level job in the castle. But I had a roof over my head, and they kept me fed, too; it was incredible.
I liked taking care of the gardens. There’s a gardener who specializes in the area, but I helped him out every once in a while. That tree by the hedge over there — I planted that.
Akira: Oh, the short one right by the road?
Shino: —Gonna get bigger.
Akira: I wasn’t talking about you, Shino......
Shino: That tree is special. When winter comes round, it blossoms with white flowers. My tree is the only tree that blooms in the winter.
So when the buds started to appear, I’d snap off a branch and bring it to Heath. Heath would always place that branch in a vase and leave it by his window.
I liked to gaze at that window while working in the gardens.
Someone knows about the work that I do. My job brings a little spark of joy to the Young Master Heath’s room, even in the wintertime. That’s why.....
No matter how small the job, I felt proud of my work. That’s how working at Blanchett made me feel.
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IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (1)
Akira: I feel like Heathcliff really trusts you as a teacher, Faust. Were you two close before I arrived at the magic headquarters?
Faust: .........
I really didn’t mean to interact more than necessary with any of the Sage’s wizards, but I simply couldn’t leave Heathcliff alone, and lent him a hand.
Because he was being dragged around by a man who could hardly use magic, didn’t know a single thing, and had a shitty personality to top it off.
Akira: This is about Heathcliff’s former teacher, right....? He must have been really awful for you to describe him like that, Faust.....
Faust: That man was insecure because his magic was weak, and because of how Eastern Country treats wizards — and he took that insecurity out on Heathcliff.
Yet Heath still tried to follow his bidding. I couldn’t stand the sight of it, so I tried to help him.
Akira: I’m sure Heathcliff was truly relieved to learn magic properly.
Faust: I haven’t taught him anything outstanding. His former teacher was simply that awful.
But ever since I helped him, no matter how many times I tell him, "I’m not the kind of wizard you think I am," he firmly believes that I am benevolent.
....It makes it difficult to be mean to him.
Akira: To be mean? Faust, you’re a kind person too; just treat him normally.
Faust: Having connections with a curseworker will simply taint his family name.
That child is fulfilling his duty as the son of nobles, and as a Sage’s wizard.
It would be a problem for him to be so attached to me. I need to draw the line somewhere.
....He’s still inexperienced, though, so this will only happen when he’s ready for it.
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IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (2)
Akira: Shino, how do you feel about Heathcliff?
Shino: I think he’s so cool.
He also has a beautiful face, and he’s kind and brilliant to top it off. Most importantly, he’s my lord.
Akira: Is he your ideal master?
Shino: He does have his imperfections.
He’s shy and withdrawn. But if he can fix that, he’ll be perfect.
You think Heath is an incredible guy too, don’t you?
Akira: Yes. I think he’s a lovely person.
Shino: Exactly. Anyone who doesn’t get that is a fool. There’s no need to listen to fools.
In the end they’re only complaining because they’re scared of wizards, and don’t want us to approach their poor weak souls.
Heath should just leave them alone, but he’s too kind.
Akira: Shino, have you ever imagined what it would be like if you were Heath’s master?
I mention a thought that just popped into a mind — and Shino blinks in surprise.
Shino: I’ve never even thought about it.
I always believed it was my role to protect Heath — to protect Blanchett. I never once considered making them follow my bidding.
That’s a knavish question, Sir Sage.
IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (3)
Akira: Nero, how do you feel about Heathcliff?
Nero: I can empathize with him as a fellow Eastern wizard. I can’t help but worry about him, you know?
Akira: Empathize.... What do you think you and Heathcliff have in common?
Nero: Heath likes tinkering with machines, right? I can understand the urge to shut yourself in your room and focus all your attention on your task.
Immersing yourself in the details of an activity — it brings a quiet and inexplicable sense of joy.
> Option: I understand.
Nero: Right, right....? But there are plenty of guys in this world who just don’t get that feeling......
> Option: I don’t understand.
Nero: You don’t, huh.... Well, I guess that’s the kind of personality that helps you adjust to living in a totally different world.
Nero: Luckily for me, I could make that activity my job, but that probably isn’t the case for Heath; he has it rough for the next couple decades or so.
Akira: I guess you’re forced into social activities when you’re the son of nobles, and next in line to be lord.....
Nero: I bet it was really rough for him, being born an Eastern wizard and a noble, especially considering his personality.
Though I’m not too worried, because Heath might be reticent, but Shino brazenly stands by his side to make up for it.
He’s also a gentle, good guy, so plenty of people are willing to lend him a hand. That makes me feel more at ease for him.
IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (4)
Akira: Heathcliff told me that you took great care of him when he first arrived at the magic headquarters, Cain.
Cain: Haha. I didn’t really take care of him. I just heard he was a young lord, but he was surprisingly shy and I just couldn’t leave him alone.
The man who arrived with him — his teacher — bossed him around, and the Eastern witch and Faust both ignored him in the beginning.
It was also the first time that a wizard younger than me was chosen to fight the catastrophe, so I saw it as my job.
Akira: Before I arrived, there weren’t many wizards who lived in the magic headquarters, right?
Cain: Yup. For the most part, everyone just gathered on the day we had to fight the catastrophe. Though there were guys who dropped by to hang out once in a while.
The ones who spent a lot of time in the magic headquarters were... me, Heath, the previous sage, and a couple of other guys.
> Option: Why did you stay in the magic headquarters?
Cain: I had just quit the Order of the Knights, so it was hard for me to stay in the Central capital because of.... The rumors, you know?
That’s why it was the perfect place for me. I got along with the previous sage, and I also got the whole magic headquarters to myself. It felt great.
Heath showed up at least once a month. I think he was interested in the magic headquarters and the wizards who were there.
Akira: He was interested? That’s kind of surprising, considering how shy Heathcliff is.
Cain: He had never met a wizard aside from Shino and his teacher. Heath was struggling, thinking about his status and upbringing as a noble.
He said he wanted to know how other wizards lived their lives.
> Option: What did you do at the magic headquarters?
Cain: The magic headquarters used to be a really peaceful, laid-back place. We all just lived our lives there.
Whenever Heath came to visit, we’d head out to have fun in the Central capital, or I’d teach him a couple things about magic. Sometimes we played card games with the previous sage.
He also talked about Shino all the time. He said he had a childhood friend who was a little bit arrogant, surly, cheeky, and fun — like a little brother.
So when I met Shino for the first time, I was pretty moved. I thought, oh! It’s this guy! He’s exactly how I imagined him!
Akira: Ahaha.
Cain: He also told me all about this castle and Sherwood Forest. He said this region was a great place that he loved.
That’s why I’m happy I got to visit Heath’s home.
IMPRESSIONS OF HEATHCLIFF (5)
Akira: Chloe, you and Heathcliff get along very well.
Chloe: Eh! Do you think so? That makes me happy, but I wonder how Heath feels? Do you think it just bothers him?
Akira: I don’t think it bothers him at all.... Are you worried?
Chloe: But he lives in such a fancy castle. He’s always so kind to me, but it made me think, wow, he really is a noble!
Fufu. Heath is such a lovely person. I actually admire him a tiny bit, so whenever Heath likes and wears the clothes I make, I feel so, so happy!
Heath likes craftwork and engraving, right? That’s why I consult him about accessory designs from time to time.
And that’s when our conversations really get rolling! So I tried asking him if he wanted to work on a collaboration together, but....
Akira: Oh, I’d love to see a collaborative design between you and Heath! What did he say?
Chloe: Umm, well....
He was kinda like, I’d love to give it a try, but I’m afraid of what will happen if we disagree with each other; I don’t want us to fight.....
Akira: Ah.... I can kind of understand.
Chloe: I want to know what Heath is particular about, and if we’re working together, I definitely want the final product to be amazing, so if I have an opinion, I know I’ll tell him, and I want him to do the same.
But those feelings might just burden Heath even more.
That’s why I want to make this collaboration real once we’re close enough to know each other’s boundaries — so that Heath can have lots of fun working on the project too!
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HEATHCLIFF’S REPUTATION
Akira: Faust. Who were you speaking to? You seem to be in surprisingly high spirits.....
Faust: That "surprisingly" was unnecessary. I was talking to the chief butler of Blanchett Caslte. He was telling me about Heathcliff.
Heath is an even more amazing child than I thought. He’s an excellent student, a skilled equestrian, and very knowledgeable about the region on top of that.
When the master of the castle is away, sometimes he solves problems that arise. No wonder Shino adores him.
Akira: I didn’t know that. I thought he was mature for his age, but he’s always so soft-spoken....
Faust: His personality gets in the way of his talent. If Heath weren’t a wizard....
We might have seen a dashing and confident young man striding through these castle grounds.
Akira: Faust.....
Faust: But then he never would have admired me as his teacher.
I can’t tell which situation would have brought greater happiness. For even if he is a wizard, Shino and all the people at the castle love him.
....In any case, I pray that he will live a wonderful life.
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THE REASON HE CRIED
Shino: I made Heath cry by this fountain in the past.
Akira: Huh. When you were little?
Heathcliff: Shino....! Don’t tell Sir Sage anything embarrassing.....!
Akira: Did you fight?
Shino: We did fight lots, but that’s not why he cried. This was where I told him about myself. Do you remember that day, Heath?
Heathcliff: ...I do remember.
Back when I had just gotten to know Shino.... Back when we were both very young — Shino told me about his life before he came to work at the castle.
Shino lived on his own for as long as he could remember, and he was treated so horribly all through his life....
And I was a sheltered child of nobles, so I couldn’t even imagine how miserable his life was; his stories shocked me, and made me so sad, and....
Shino: Heheh. Heath was so beautiful when he cried. I wanted to see him cry more, so I kept talking.
Akira: Shino, you’re so strong; it’s such a relief.....
Heathcliff: He went on, describing all sorts of experiences that made me want to put my hands to my ears, but I couldn’t just coldly cut him off like that.....
Shino: Someone from the castle spotted us, and they almost yelled at me, but Heath came to my rescue.
He said that he fell into the fountain, and I saved him. But his face was the only part of him that was wet. Heath was such a terrible liar as a kid.
And later that evening, he gave me a slice of lemon pie that Mistress baked. That was an exceptionally good day for me at Blanchett.
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ON THE < GREAT CATASTROPHE >
Akira: How did you spend the day when the < Great Catastrophe > approached?
Heathcliff: We would prepare a supply of emergency food a few days in advance, and on the day of the attack, we stayed inside the castle.
We’d never suffered any damage, year after year, but I had heard that the world would end if the < Great Catastrophe > weren’t sent back, so.....
Death had never felt closer to me as a child. I kept thinking, what if tomorrow never comes?
Akira: Of course.... Of course you’d be nervous if the world were in danger of ending every year....
Heathcliff: But... There was something I looked forward to, too.
Akira: Something you looked forward to?
Heathcliff: When the < Great Catastrophe > attacks, all the servants spend the day within the castle.
So it was a rare opportunity to stay by Shino’s side until morning, without the grown-ups yelling at us.
I was terrified of the < Great Catastrophe >, but I also secretly prepared sweets and toys just for that day......
Akira: Ahaha! That’s so cute!
Heathcliff: To this day, whenever I’m with Shino in the middle of the night, I remember that excitement....
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A DANGEROUS PLACE
Shino: Sage. Why are you headed down that road?
Akira: Ah, Shino. I was just taking a walk — I wanted to know what was over here.
....? Why are you grinning....?
Shino: Heath will never come near here. Can you tell why?
> Option: Is it a dangerous place?
Shino: There’s nothing dangerous for wizards near this castle. I’m protecting it, after all.
> Option: Is it a scary place?
Shino: Fufu. There’s nothing scary about it. But maybe it is scary to Heath.
> Option: Is it somewhere nobles aren’t allowed to enter?
Shino: There’s nowhere nobles can’t enter. They’re the ones who make the rules, after all. There are plenty of places where we servants aren’t allowed, though.
Shino: There’s a well down this road that’s rumored to be haunted by a ghost.
Akira: A ghost....?
Shino: Once upon a time, a maid dropped and broke the household’s treasured plate and threw herself into the well because she couldn’t stand the punishment administered by the head butler.
To this day, you can still hear her cries from the bottom of the well, as she scrambles in search of the lost plate......
???: Wah!!
Akira: Aaaaaaaagh!?
Nero: Ahaha, Mister Sage, that was one impressive scream.
Shino: Nice one, Nero.
They say Blanchett has been a little bit nicer to lady servants since then. Because if they treat them poorly, the maid will curse them.
Heath is terrified of the rumor; that’s why he won’t approach the well. But he’s kind to everyone, so there’s no reason for him to be so scared.
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SPOT DISCOVERY
Akira: Wow.... There’s a fancy stone statue in the courtyard. Blanchett Castle isn’t just full of clockwork machinery — there are so many ornaments and works of art, too.
Nero: Yeah. The stuff inside the castle was amazing. The carpets, the pillars, the silverware, the paintings hanging in the hallways — it was all the finest quality.
Akira: I-I didn’t know that! Thank goodness I didn’t touch it out of curiosity....
Huh? Now that I look at it, this statue has jewels in its eyes.
Nero: It must’ve been crafted in the West. It’s a little flashy compared to the stuff made by Eastern craftsmen.
The craftsmen of this country are meticulous about their jobs and produce delicate works; that’s why it’s easy to tell when an artifact is from the East.
Akira: How about this bench over here? The gold decorations are very beautiful, but... It’s really flashy, so is it also from Western Country?
Nero: No. This was crafted in Central Country. They’ve used an expensive wood and the form is pretty sturdy.
Well, I bet they’re all tributes. This place is filled with stuff that would sell for a hefty price; I can’t stop looking left and right.
Akira: .......
Nero: What’s wrong, Mister Sage. You’ve got a curious expression on your face.
Akira: I was just thinking you know an awful lot about works of art. Did you learn about art history somewhere? Or did you have a lot of opportunities to see these sorts of artifacts?
Nero: Haha... Nope, not at all. I’m just giving you half-assed explanations, hoping I might be right.
Doesn’t everyone think, "Huh, I bet this thing would fetch a hefty price," when they see artifacts like these?
Akira: H-hmm.... I’m not too sure about that....?
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A FUN PLACE
Akira: That was a fun tour of Blanchett Castle! Nero, was there anything that left an impression on you?
Nero: I guess it was the castle kitchen. The kitchen itself is spacious, and the storehouse is really nice. The furnace was also first-class.
There really are a lot of craftsmen in this area; everything was well-designed.
You could tell how proud the kitchen staff are of the food they deliver to their master just by seeing how sharp the kitchen knives were.
Akira: I see. Is it any different from the kitchens in the city restaurants?
Nero: Oh, it’s completely different. For starters, the quality of the tools they use is different. The pots are all made by renowned craftsmen who use the finest metals and clay.
The silverware is all top-quality, too. Look at the delicate workmanship on this one.
Akira: D-did you just take this with you?
Nero: I’ll return it to Heath later. Heat travels better through well-made pots and furnaces. When the silver is good, the food tastes good.
The grill was great — it was so huge! I want to broil some meat on a skewer over that grill. It’d taste great. The coal was fancy too.
I thought it’d be nice if that kitchen were part of the magic headquarters. I could cook all sorts of different foods.
Akira: I see.... So you’re also particular about your kitchen set-up, Nero.
Do you have any other requests for the kitchen in the magic headquarters? Is there anything you want?
Nero: I mean, of course I do. But when you start to get particular about the set-up and the tools you use, there’s just no end to it all.
So I try to keep those urges to a minimum. But man, I wanna try cooking there just once....
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BREAK TIME (1)
Akira: There are lots of clockwork-powered objects scattered throughout Blanchett Castle. It’s really fun watching them move.
Heathcliff: Yes — there’s an interesting twist to this fountain, too. It should start moving right about now.....
(Musical tune)
Akira: Woah...! I can hear music playing. Heath, what’s the trick behind this fountain—?
Heathcliff: .........
Akira: Wh-what’s wrong? Is something bothering you?
Heathcliff: .....! I was spacing out. I’m sorry.
Akira: No, it’s fine. It’s rare for you to space out like that.
Heathcliff: Haha.... I’m really fond of this fountain, you see.
Akira: You’re fond of it.... Is there some kind of intricate machinery behind it all?
Heathcliff: I do love the machinery, but that’s not all — I also love the experiences that happen around this fountain.
I get excited whenever I hear this music playing, and.... Ever since I was little, I enjoyed reading books by the fountain.
....Ah! I got sidetracked. Let me explain what’s going on with the machinery.
The water pressure causes the pipe organ to play at certain increments of time. And....
Akira: (Heath looks like he’s really enjoying himself. He’s usually so calm, but when it comes to mechanics, he really acts like a kid his age.)
BREAK TIME (2)
Akira: Faust.... Wow, a whole table and a tea set in the courtyard. Are you having a fancy tea party on your own?
Faust: ....I was simply waiting for Heathcliff because there was something we needed to do, but...... The castle servants spotted me, and here we are now.
Faust is sitting at a finely decorated table with far too many snacks and sweets and tea for one person.
Akira: They’ve welcomed you quite kindly, I see.....
Faust: I tried to tell them that treating me like a guest of honor would just cause me unnecessary trouble, but I couldn’t refuse them in front of Heath.
Many of the servants came by to greet me. Heathcliff must have spoken of me very highly.
I really wanted to tell them that they had the wrong man.
Akira: I heard that you were injured during the last battle with the catastrophe because you were protecting Heath. You’re their savior too, Faust.
Faust: It was just a coincidence. I can’t say it’ll happen again. It’s just more trouble for me if they have high hopes — and are later disappointed.
Faust says, but his expression is far kinder than his words.
The fancy plates and sweets prepared for their precious guest feel like expressions of love for Heathcliff himself — and that makes me incredibly happy.
Perhaps Faust feels the same way.
Akira: May I join you?
Faust: Yes. Please eat to your heart’s content. When Heathcliff comes back, let’s have him help us out as well.
We’ll handle our job after that.
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SPOT IMPRESSIONS (1)
Akira: Cain, how do you feel about Blanchett Castle and the surrounding region?
Cain: As a knight, I’m curious about the structure of this castle. Like, it’d be hard to attack this region; this part looks powerful.
Akira: You see it as a place to be conquered?
Cain: Well, it could very well be a place I attack one day. Plus, I’d want to take the good parts and implement them in Central Country.
Akira: I see.... You think like a soldier.
Cain: From a personal perspective, uh..... I feel like.... The guys in this castle don’t really like me....?
Akira: Huh!? I don’t think so, but did someone say something to you!?
Cain: I feel like they’re strangely harsh...? I can’t see their faces, though, so it might just be my imagination.
Heathcliff: Cain!
Cain: Hey, Heath.
Akira: (He put his arm around his shoulder so naturally. They look like brothers; how nice. ...Hm?)
(....! The butler is glaring at him with a terrifying expression!)
(Oh, of course! He’s a former general from another country getting all buddy-buddy with their precious young master....)
Butler: Ahem! Mister Wizard from Central Country. You are currently visiting Blanchett Castle.
Cain: Hm? I know that. Thanks for informing me!
Akira: (Eastern Country people tend to use roundabout expressions, and Cain doesn’t get it unless he’s told directly..... Yeah, this isn’t a great combination....)
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (2)
Akira: Rustica, you’re also a noble. What do you think of Blanchett Castle?
Rustica: It’s a lovely castle. If the castles of Western Country are roses, the castles of Eastern Country are bellflowers.
Just standing here makes me feel like I need to try my best.
Akira: (Rustica does look perfect standing in front of the castle....)
Rustica: But....
I also feel like relaxing a bit, and putting on a delightful and showy performance. In fact, that’s how I feel right now.
I’m glad you’re here to be my audience, Sir Sage. << Amorest Viesse >>.
Akira: Huh!?
When Rustica utters his spell, a percussion mallet and a metallophone the size of his hand appear.
As Rustica plays the metallophone, its sound echoing across the courtyard, the water in the fountain dances high into the sky.
(Splash)
It reaches beyond the castle roof and scatters into rainbow-colored droplets.
Castle person: Wh-what’s going on!?
Akira: Ru-Rustica. People are gathering....
Rustica: Oh my. Looks like we have an audience. Well then, I really need to take this to another level — the real show starts now.
Akira: Wait, no....
Rustica: << Amorest Viesse >>
SPOT IMPRESSIONS (3)
Akira: Huh, Arthur. I didn’t realize you were here at Blanchett.
Arthur: Shh. I apologize, Sir Sage, but please keep it a secret that I’m here.
Because if Heathcliff’s parents and the people at the castle find out about me, they’ll be forced to take extra care.....
Akira: I can see that — if the prince from the neighboring kingdom dropped by out of nowhere, the whole place would be in chaos.... Is there something you need to do here?
Arthur: No, I’m just here on a personal trip. Shino and I were talking about our homelands, so he told me he would guide me around the forest and the castle, and brought me here.
Akira: (I guess Shino wanted to show off.....)
Arthur: And it’s just as Shino says — Sherwood Forest, which surrounds this castle, is vast and has a noble air to it.
I hear the forest functions as a natural defense; I can see why they call this place impregnable.
Shino must truly be an excellent guardian if they let him take care of these woods. I’m sure everyone thinks highly of him.
Shino: Oh, there you are, Prince. This way. Follow me.
Arthur: All right.
Akira: Are you headed to the castle?
Shino: We’re gonna sneak into Heath’s room. I bet he’ll be surprised when he sees Arthur.
Arthur: This is getting exciting!
Akira: (So it’s a surprise.....)
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SPOT-RELATED STORY (1)
Akira: How long ago was this castle built?
Heathcliff: It was built even before Granvelle Castle in Central Country — so quite a long time ago.
The current castle was established after a war in Eastern Country.
> Option: When you say the current castle....
Akira: Does that mean there was a previous Blanchett Castle elsewhere?
Heathcliff: Yes. My family originally lived in a powerful fortress that was built in order to establish order within these lands.
But the rampart was getting old, so they decided to build a new castle right here.
The current castle has no rampart, but the surrounding valleys and woodlands work just like a defensive wall.
> Option: So it’s a castle with a rich history!
Akira: Does that mean your family goes back many generations?
Heathcliff: Yes. The Blanchett family has presided over these lands since the establishment of Eastern Country.
The royal family of Eastern Country had always trusted the lord of these lands, but when the war put the family at risk of decline—...
The lord saved the king by sheltering him here. That was how the Blanchetts became a powerful noble family.
Akira: I see.... Thank you for telling me all this, Heath. You know this castle’s history very well.
Heathcliff: Haha.... My father has told me these stories over and over again ever since I was little.
When I become a father one day, will I tell the same stories to my children...? Honestly, I still can’t imagine it.
SPOT-RELATED STORY (2)
Akira: So your ancestors lived in a different castle before this one was built.
What’s the difference between the two?
Heathcliff: The old castle had a solid rampart, but with the advancement of battle tactics and weaponry, it gradually ceased to function as a proper defense.
The lord of the castle — my ancestor, rich with foresight — chose to use the valleys and woodlands of Sherwood Forest as a kind of natural rampart.
That’s why this place was constructed so that the castle can be augmented and extended to respond to various battle tactics.
But there was plenty of opposition to the building of a new castle — it required much capital and labor, after all.
Akira: That sounds like trouble.... And how did your ancestor settle these dissenting voices?
Heathcliff: Perhaps through his popularity. I hear that he was an honest and intelligent man, after all.
And in truth, during times of war, Blanchett Castle turned out to be a great help to our national defense.
Akira: So this castle protected this country and its people....! Heath, your ancestor must have been such a judicious person.
Heathcliff: Yes. When I first heard this tale, I realized how important it is to gain trust, and to calmly and objectively forecast future events.
I hope that I can one day do the same.....
Akira: (I see. Heath will be the future lord of this castle....)
I’m sure you’ll be able to, Heath. I can tell from our everyday conversations that you evaluate things calmly and carefully.
Heathcliff: ....Thank you, Sir Sage. It’ll do my best, bit by bit.
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WIZARD AT THE SPOT
Akira: You met your master of magic at this castle, right?
Shino: Yeah. He was a real shitty old man. He was a boastful, gloomy drunkard who wouldn’t stop bragging about his empty achievements.
Akira: You’re tearing him apart....
Shino: It’s the truth. His tyrannical attitude made me wince. I put up with a lot.
He was the man Master and Mistress brought on for Heath’s sake, so Heath had no choice but to quietly obey him in order to avoid embarrassing his parents.
Akira: I see......
Shino: There're a lot of wizards in Eastern Country who keep quiet about the fact that they’re wizards.
I always thought, if you’re gonna live a gloomy life where you whine about humans behind their backs, why not just get back at them using magic? But.....
Now I realize that the guys who step up and announce that they’re wizards are also full of crap.
Akira: Maybe that’s just what the people here are like.....
Shino: Who knows. If this were a country where good wizards like Heath and Faust stood out, humans wouldn’t look down on us, but they don’t want any attention.
I was really worried when Heath and our master were both chosen as sage’s wizards; they didn’t come back from the magic headquarters for a while.
But now, I can take care of Heath right by his side — it’s a relief. Plus, I get to learn magic properly.
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PEOPLE AT THE SPOT
Akira: What are the people who live in the Blanchett region generally like?
Heathcliff: Most people here are serious and prideful about their work. They treasure their friends and family.
People in the capital of the Town of Rain often avoid interacting with others as much as possible, but....
There are many craftsmen and farmers around here, so they’re all connected to their village chiefs and bosses in a hierarchy.
Blanchett Castle is a key strategic point in this country, so when necessary, the common people become soldiers. I guess that’s why they can be seen as militaristic.
People smile around here more often than they used to — back in the time of my grandparents, that kind of attitude was deemed to be frivolous.
Akira: So they’re rather militaristic, huh.....
Heathcliff: That’s what the region is generally like.... Neither my parents nor I are really like that, but....
Past generations established many military achievements here, and the economy is constant and steady, so there’s an awareness that this region is crucial to Eastern Country.
But my father seems careful to ensure that our voice doesn’t get too powerful.
Akira: Why is that?
Heathcliff: To keep the royal family from suspecting a rebellion.
That’s why.... Shino’s desire for accomplishments is actually very dangerous.
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ON EASTERN COUNTRY
Akira: Heathcliff, how do you feel about Eastern Country?
Heathcliff: Let’s see.... It’s my mother country, so of course I love it — the nature is beautiful, and the people are calm and quiet.
It may be a country that shuns wizards, but wizards aren’t the only heretical disturbances that people shy away from....
Akira: I see.
Heathcliff: People who don’t know how to cooperate with others always stand out. And craftsmen, farmers, and ranchers are the favored professions in Eastern Country.
They’re considered reliable, steady lifestyles, after all. There are famous artists in Eastern Country; yet if someone aspires to become an artist, people treat them coldly.
People will cheer for those who study hard to become professors; yet they think those who come up with strange inventions are complete eccentrics.
Akira: Then it must be difficult for Western wizards to live in Eastern Country.
Heathcliff: I think so.... People here are good at moving in lockstep, so those who fail to keep the pace are considered selfish.
The flipside is that when everyone works together, the group wields incredible strength. Eastern Country has always had a powerful army.
At times, I find that just a bit... Scary.
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SPOT SPECIALTY
Heathcliff: The Blanchett region is known for its delicate crafts made of rich wood.
The cuckoo clocks inform you of the hour; they’re particularly popular among visitors.
Akira: Cuckoo clocks — I’ve seen one at a friend’s house before. So those also run on clockwork machinery.
Heathcliff: The furniture is also popular. Furniture made in the Blanchett region is known for lasting for three generations.
We also use advanced techniques for furniture engravings and metal carvings. Our elegant and careful designs are known as Blanchett engravings.
I like them too..... I was the one who did the engravings on my magic tool — my pocket watch — and Shino’s scythe as well.
Akira: That’s amazing! Now I’m beginning to want some furniture for myself. Maybe I’ll take a look at the store in town.
Heathcliff: Please let me join you. If anything strikes your fancy, I will gift it to you.
Akira: Are you sure?
Heathcliff: Of course. Though I feel like our castle craftsmen would insist on creating a specialized piece of furniture just for you, Sir Sage.
Akira: (A made-to-order, top-class quality piece of furniture.... I feel like I’d never want to go home.)
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