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Apr. 20th, 2022
Chapter 1
Riquet: Wow…! Can we really, Lords Snow and White?
Snow: Oh we most certainly can! We too have been longing to see this flower for some time.
White: Let us hurry on there now. We must strike while the iron’s hot, or as the previous Sage used to say!
Arthur: Yes, I agree! I’ve never seen it before, so I can’t wait!
It was an early morning, before the sun had even reached its highest. The lively voices of the twins with Riquet and Arthur filled the foyer as the young wizards held onto a thickly leafed book.
I, who was taking a stroll and decided to check up on them, called out to the four of them.
Akira: Hey, everyone. Are you all going out somewhere?
Snow: Why if it isn’t the Sage.
White: We were just thinking of going out to see a flower.
Riquet: Have a look at this, Master Sage!
What Riquet held out to me was a field guide on plants. It seems that magic was cast on it, as a mirage of flowers slowly rose from the opened page.
Pictured on the page was a beautiful flower, and it looked as though its petals, leaves, and stem were even made of glass.
The delicately detailed red flower seemed like it could break the moment you touched it. Its stem was transparent and water-coloured, making it feel out of this world. I thought I was looking at an exquisite piece of candy art.
Akira: Woah, now this is the definition of beautiful! I can’t believe there’s really a flower as pretty as this out here in the world!
Snow: Yep. It’s called the Glassflower and you can only find it in the South Country.
White: While we were looking at the field guide together, Riquet expressed great interest in it, so we’ve decided to go and examine it ourselves!
Akira: So that’s why! It’s so shiny and see-through just like a real piece of glass…
(There are a whole lot of mystical plants that exist in this world. This flower’s petals and stem looks solid to touch, but I wonder how it really feels?)
Snow: Ohohoho, your face is saying that you want to come too!
Akira: Wha?!
White: Ohohoho, there’s no hiding it from us! Your eyes were brimming with curiosity!
Riquet: If you’re free, would you come with us too, Master Sage?
If it’s this stunning in the book, then surely it will be more breathtaking in real life!
Akira: Thanks for the invite! Of course I’ll come.
Riquet: I wonder if Mitile’s seen this flower before…
If he hasn’t, I want to tell him all about it, because he’s my best friend!
Arthur: Shall we invite Mitile too then?
Riquet: The thing is…this morning he went out with Rutile somewhere. I don’t know where they went…
Mitile: Did you mention me just now?
When I turned around to that voice, there was Rutile and Mitile who had come back inside.
In their arms they carried an enormous amount of flowers.
Akira: That’s a LOT of flowers…!
Mitile: Ehehe, Rutile and I went flower picking in the forest!
Rutile: A special anniversary is coming up, so we were getting ready for that!
Snow: A special anniversary?
White: How interesting! Can we hear more?
Mitile and Rutile meet eyes and smile at each other as everyone desires to know.
Mitile: It’s the “Celebratory Day of When the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met”!
Akira, Arthur, & Riquet: “Celebratory Day of When…the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met”?
Upon hearing an unfamiliar term, I tilt my head.
As I did, a certain somebody abruptly came in.
Mithra: Hey.
Rutile: Wah, Mithra?!
Mithra: What is with that bundle of weeds? Don’t tell me you two went and picked up something dangerous again.
Mitile: Ugh, they’re safe, we didn’t pick up anything weird! We did our research on any dangerous flowers beforehand!
Rutile: We’re sorry for worrying you a lot, but we properly gathered these flowers with caution in every step!
Here, see? They’re all fine.
Mithra: Arthim.
Rutile & Mitile: Whyyyy!?
Rutile: Why did you zap them away!
Mitile: You’re awful! We just finished gathering them too…!
Mithra: The awful ones are you two, making such relaxed faces as if you weren’t holding poisonous flowers. Haven’t I said many times that you guys dying would make things difficult for me?
Mitile: Huh?
White: Oh, you mean that red flower.
Snow: Goodness, my apologies for not noticing sooner.
Glancing at each other the twins then dash to the brothers.
White: Are you feeling alright? If you inhale the smell of those flowers for a long time your body will begin to numb.
Snow: You younger wizards are easy to affect. There is a harmless flower that is similar looking to the poisonous ones you just held, so you must have mistaken them.
We too have sometimes made this error, only to realize it after it’s already too late. It’s an honest mistake.
Mitile: Is…is that so…I’m sorry, I really thought we had it right…
Rutile: Thank you, Mithra. Next time we’ll be sure to search safer!
Mithra: No, there won’t be a next time. Anyways, these flowers will be useful as magic charms, so I’ll be taking them.
Akira: (Already found an effective use so it won’t go to waste…)
I’m glad you two are alright. You sure know your plants, Mithra.
Arthur: Yes, he really does!
Mithra: Uh, I guess I do. I have no interest in weeds but I can tell by their smell and presence whether they’re dangerous or not.
Riquet: Oh, right. Mitile, I was going to ask you if you knew about this flower or not. Have you seen it before? It’s a flower that grows in South Country.
The Southern brothers, along with Mithra, take a peek inside the field guide. When they did, Rutile and Mitile let out an “Ah!”
Snow: So you two do know of it?
Rutile: Yes! It’s a flower we often use for the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Day!
Akira: Crybaby Bunny…that’s that special anniversary you were talking about before.
Rutile: Mmhmm. The Celebratory Day of When the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met requires flowers to celebrate.
Snow: I see. Even if they were poisonous flowers, it is a shame that the flowers you took the time to gather went poof.
The truth is, the five of us were about to go to South Country to find that flower.
White: Since you’re searching for flowers too, why not tag along?
Rutile: My, is that okay? I’m grateful for the invite!
Mitile: We know of a great place where those flowers grow, so leave the escorting to us!
Mithra: Okay, I’m coming too.
Rutile: Ah, are you interested in this flower too, Mithra?
Mithra: Not at all. Don’t tell me you’ve forgotten what just happened minutes ago.
Rutile: Oh we’ll be fine. It’s in a flower field that we used to go to a lot anyway, so there’s no dange…
Mithra: Arthim.
As he chanted his spell, a door appeared.
Mithra: The destination’s South Country, right? Get in the door.
Rutile & Mitile: Waah!
Lightly, Rutile and Mitile began to float in the air, and without saying anything he drifted them gently through the door.
Mithra: You too. And you as well.
Following them, the other wizards were sent flying through the door.
Riquet: What?!
Arthur: Woaaah!
Snow: Mithy, be more gentle!
White: We are NOT objects!
Akira: (Everyone else is being sloppily thrown through the door…)
(...In any case, just what sort of anniversary is the Crybaby Bunny and the Dancing Hat’s meeting…?)
Mithra: Hey, what are you spacing out for? You’re the last to go.
Akira: Huh? Ah…!
Finally, I too am abruptly brought into the air with magic.
Akira: W-Woaaaah!
Without exception, I was thrown through the space connecting door just like the others.
Index >
Chapter 2
Akira: Ow!
Snow: Are you alright, Sage? Sorry I couldn’t stop your fall.
Akira: Ahahaha…it’s fine. I just landed hard on my bum…
White: Though it was quite the manhandling, we managed to arrive safely!
I spin and look at my surroundings. We were in South Country.
A bit of dryness in the weather, I could spot rocky mountains around us. Anyone viewing the grassfields and peaceful scenery would feel at ease.
This was the Town of Clouds, where Rutile and Mitile were born and raised.
Mithra: As usual it’s dusty and there’s nothing here.
Rutile: That’s not true. There’s plenty of wonderful places in South Country, just like the flowers we’re going to see!
They’re beautiful when the sun’s light hits them. I hope you can take a liking to them too, Mithra!
Mithra: Haaaugh, nope, not interested.
Mithra boredly yawned, but Rutile’s expression remained bright. He took a look at the area and smiled.
I’m sure he was happy because everyone else was having fun looking at the scenery of South Country. Just like Mitile, he was delighted to have them visit.
Snow: Now, let us head to that flower field…
White: Rutile, Mitile, we hope you can lead the way.
Murr: Wait a minuteeee!
I hear a lively voice up above me. I spot Murr bobbing in the air when I face upwards.
Akira: Murr…?! Why are you here?!
Arthur: Have you come to visit the Town of Clouds too Murr?
Murr: Nuh-uh. I went through Mithra’s door like you folks did!
It looked like a lotta fun to be thrown through the door like that, so when I tried to join, he threw me in too!
Mithra: Oh, I did?
Rutile: Then how about we go to the flower field together, Murr?
We came to South Country to look for a flower that only grows here called the Glassflower.
Murr: I’m in I’m in! But before that, here ya go!
He turns and spins 360 degrees and hands Rutile a letter.
Murr: It’s a letter to you that arrived at the manor! I followed after you guys to give it to you!
Rutile: My, all that for me? Thank you…oh, it’s from the family of one of my students…
It’s rare for letters to be delivered from here to the manor…I wonder what’s the occasion.
Arthur: It could be urgent, how about you read it now?
Rutile: Thank you, I will. Please excuse me for a bit.
Opening the seal, Rutile begins to read the letter, and his bright expression gradually turns grey.
Rutile: …
Mitile: Rutile…? What is written in the letter?
Akira: Did something happen to your student…?
Rutile: Well…a student of mine, Grete, has shut herself up in her room for some reason…
Mitile: Grete?!
Mitile eyes flood with anxiety as they widen in surprise at Rutile’s news.
Rutile: The one who sent the letter was her older brother, Hans.
No matter how much Hans and their parents try, without knowing the reason why, she stays confined to her room…
Arthur: That is worrisome…so they sent this letter to you asking for help.
Rutile: Yes. They asked me to check up on her if I ever came back to the Town of Clouds. Just what happened…
Seeing his expression cloud up, anyone could tell that he was deeply concerned for his student.
Next to him is Mitile who droops his shoulders, seemingly feeling the same emotions.
Mitile: I hope she’s okay…
Riquet: Mitile, are you familiar with her?
Mitile: I am. Hans and Grete are younger students at my school. I would often help them with studies and walk home together with them.
There aren’t a lot of schools in South Country, so as a result of the grades getting mixed and put in the same class together, I'd play with them a lot.
I remember when I was chosen to be a Sage’s Wizard, she was as happy as I was, like it was she who got chosen.
Akira: Mitile…
I could hear a little confusion in Mitile’s voice, like he couldn’t believe the contents of the letter.
Mitile: And, I’m worried for Hans too. Those siblings get along so well, so I’m sure he’s hurting right now…
Hopefully they’ll be okay…
Riquet clutched his chest tight seeing Mitile and Rutile with pensive looks on their faces.
Riquet: It saddens me to see those two so down.
Arthur: …It is someone close to them after all.
And besides that, it takes quite some time for letters to be delivered from South Country to the manor.
It already takes time getting from South to the Central palace where it is received, to which then they need to inspect it, taking up more days…
Murr: That’s true! The date of this letter is from weeks ago.
We can easily send out letters and news, but humans have it so rough!
Arthur nods at Murr who was taking a peek at the letter, and puts his hand on his chin.
Arthur: Not only do I need to speeden the delivery for letters and such within our borders, but also from outside…
If I have the chance to, I’ll propose it at the next conference. If it goes through, you and your students will be able to communicate through letters easier.
Rutile: My, how kind! But, won’t that be quite the tough job? Please don’t overdo it.
It’s lucky that we were able to read this letter here today. I haven’t had many chances to visit the Town of Clouds lately…as well…
As he tenderly brushes the surface of the letter, he continues his words, speaking as softly as the spring wind.
Rutile: Grete is a sweet and bright young girl, who cares for her brother dearly.
She loves drawing, and has gifted me many portraits. She quite adores me, and
so that must be why Hans wrote a letter to me.
It has been weeks already, so hopefully she’s all okay now, but…
For a moment, Rutile quietly closes his eyes, and looks up.
His expression was that of a kind teacher, with a positive smile that fills anyone who sees it with warmth.
Rutile: I’m sorry, everyone. I was supposed to guide you to the flower field, but is it alright if I go check on Grete?
Mitile, you know your way to the flower field, yes? Can you guide them there?
Mitile: But…
With a lingering look, Mitile falters his words.
Akira: (Mitile’s worried and wants to go too, but he also feels obligated to guide us to the flower field…)
Murr: Hey, why don’t we all go together?
Rutile: Together?
Arthur: Together as in, to Grete’s house?
Murr: Yup! Wizards who normally wouldn’t come here visited with Rutile and Mitile. Along with them, a letter asking for help.
Whether this is a coinkydink or fate, there’s surely something meaningful about these instances!
Why don’t we go with the flow! Let’s all go to that girl’s house!
Theatrically, and with flashy movements, Murr spoke. Arthur and Riquet nodded at his proposal.
Arthur: Yes, I like that idea. There might be something we could do for her. Master Sage, do you mind?
Akira: Not at all. Like Murr said, there must be some meaning in that this all came together here…
I also want for Rutile and Mitile to cheer up, so I’ll help them in any way I can!
Rutile & Mitile: Everybody…
< Index >
Chapter 3
Snow: Ohohoho, then it’s decided! We shall go with Murr’s plan.
White: Although we could just go and see the flowers ourselves, it’s not like we’ll be late if we handle a little something first! We came here with everyone after all, so let’s stay together.
As long as we are not in your way, of course.
Rutile: You aren’t! There is nothing more encouraging than having you all by our sides.
Though, having a crowd of people suddenly visiting will surely scare them, so when we reach their house could you first let me speak with Hans alone?
Snow: Of course. It is best to let Mr. Rutile reassure the lad.
Rutile: Thank you. What will you do, Mithra?
You could go on a walk while we go to Grete’s House…
Mithra: I don’t mind coming along. Flowers and children are basically the same thing, so it doesn't matter what we go to see.
Mitile: I-I’m pretty sure flowers and children are completely different…
Rutile: Hehe, alrighty then, let’s all go to Grete’s house!
Following Rutile, we made our way to Grete’s house.
Hans: Mr. Rutile…! And Mitile’s here too!
The one who greeted us at the entrance was the older brother who sent the letter, Hans.
He was a bit younger than Mitile and Riquet, and was freckled with curly hair.
When he saw Rutile, he breathed a sigh of relief from the bottom of his heart.
Hans: Oh good…we’re lucky you’ve come, Mr. Rutile!
Thank you for coming too, Mitile! I’m happy to see you.
The Hans who smiled at the brothers looked a bit tired, as if he wasn’t sleeping, and he had some dark circles under his eyes.
Rutile gently pats Hans’ head, consoling him.
Rutile: It’s been a while, Hans. Thank you for your letter.
Forgive me for being so late. Is Grete still staying inside her room?
Hans: Mmhmm…uhm, who are those people behind you?
Rutile: They’re fellow wizards of the Sage! Sorry, we must have startled you by bringing so many of us at once.
They came along with me because they wanted to help you. If you’re okay with that, would you talk about Grete with them too?
Hans: A buncha wizards of the Sage came…for Grete!? Thank you thank you, of course I’m okay!
My name is Hans, it’s good to meet you, wizards of the Sage!
Akira: Hello there Hans, I’m the Sage Akira.
Hans: The Master Sage…! Wow, I’ve heard about you from Mr. Rutile! So you brought the Master Sage too!
Snow: Ohohoho, don’t you forget us strong and cute Northern wizards now!
Murr: Or this fun loving Western wizard too! Ooo, arf arf!
Riquet: And we are Central wizards. We heard a bit about Grete from Rutile. From a certain point, she began to shut herself inside her room.
If there’s anything we can do, this disciple of god will gladly lend you a hand.
Murr: For starters, should we light some fireworks? Or maybe invite her outside with a groovy dance and song!
Hans: T-Thank you all. I’m really happy you want to help, but if all of you came in at once I think Grete would get scared…
I…I want Mr. Rutile to see Grete first…she wouldn’t listen to me, but maybe Mr. Rutile can get her to.
Everyone, please come inside the house!
The house Hans welcomed us into was a cozy and peaceful little home with the warmth of family life.
When I asked, the parents were out taking care of the farm animals, so it was just the siblings alone at home.
Glancing all over the interior there were drawings pasted almost everywhere.
Flower drawings, animal drawings, people happily smiling drawings. You could tell they were made by the same person.
Snow: Hooh, what wonderful work. They are all lovely.
White: How sweet, this one appears to be a drawing of the whole family.
Hans: These are all Grete’s! She’s good, right!
Proud to hear Grete’s art being complimented, Hans grinned slightly.
Hans: Grete loves drawing. Everyday she’d make one piece, daily! And everytime she finishes it she shows me!
I really like seeing my sister having fun drawing everyday.
But…since she’s trapped herself inside her room…
Rutile: Hans…
Would you perhaps have any clue as to why? Did she look a little blue before she shut herself in?
Hans drops his shoulders and shakes his head at Rutile’s question.
Hans: No, nothing at all.
Mitile: Really?
Hans: Mmhmm. She was the same as always that day. And then she suddenly wouldn’t come out or say anything no matter how much we asked.
When Father and Mother talked with her she’d just tell them to leave her alone…
Mr. Rutile, I just don’t know what to do for her…even though I care about her so much…
Mitile: …
Mithra: I understand.
Riquet: Huh?
Arthur: What did you understand?
Mithra: It’s simple. All we need to do is drag out the little girl from her room.
Arthi…
Akira: N-None of that now, Mithra! That’s probably not best…
Riquet: The Sage is right. Such violence to even suggest dragging her out! We ought to help her by hearing her out.
Mithra: But why? If it’s causing so much of a problem that she won’t leave her room, then it’ll quickly be over if we drag her out.
Hans. N-No! You’ll make her cry again!
Rutile: Again?
Hans: Ah…yes. The truth is, I already tried to forcefully drag her out.
I even tried pushing her art supplies on her, trying to get her to draw…she started crying a lot…
He gripped his pants tight.
Hans: I don’t ever wanna hurt Grete like that again. But I couldn’t leave her like that, so I wrote to Mr. Rutile…
Having a hard time getting his voice out, Hans had a pained expression on his face.
On Grete’s drawings of her family all over the house, everyone was smiling.
Drawings where the siblings were picking flowers. Drawings where they were all eating meals together. Drawings of them holding hands.
The more I see all those smiles in these pictures, the more I feel the weight of Han’s sadness, and my chest begins to hurt too.
Rutile: Thank you for choosing me, Hans. You tried your very best for your little sister. You’re a good kid.
Mithra too, thank you for trying to help get Grete out of her room as well.
I will go and speak with Grete. Everybody, please wait here.
Grete: ….gh, *sniff*
…h.
Rutile: Hi, Grete, it’s Mr. Rutile.
Grete: …!
Rutile: I’ve come to the Town of Clouds to visit, and I’ve even brought Mitile too.
Sorry for not showing my face at school for so long. I’m here to see how you’re doing.
Grete: …
Rutile: If you’re okay with it, Grete, would you like to talk for a bit? If you don’t want to come out of your room, just like this is fine too.
Grete: …Mr. Ruti…
…rried…I’m sorry for making you worried…
Even though you came all this way, I’m sorry…
Rutile: Grete…
There is nothing to apologize for. I’m happy to hear your voice.
< Index >
Chapter 4
Hans: So even you couldn’t do it…
Hans looked downhearted upon seeing Rutile return alone.
Mitile puts his hand on his shoulder as comfort.
Mitile: Rutile, how was she?
Rutile: She answered me when I spoke to her, but I believe she’s crying…
Mitile: Oh…
Akira: It’s going to be hard to get her out of her room when we don’t even know the reason why she’s there in the first place…
If only there was some way to cheer her up…
Riquet: What about giving her her favourite food? Like if it were me, I would ask for Nero’s omelettes.
The smell of eggs and butter mixed together always brings a smile to my face, even when I’m down. Just one bite lifts my mood.
Mithra: Not a bad idea. I want to eat meat, so how about we grill some in front of her room?
Murr: I like that! Which should we cook? I saw tons of pigs, cows, and sheep on the way here!
Snow: Murry, those animals are owned by someone.
White: Mithy, one mess up and you’d end up setting the house on fire.
Arthur: Meat is always good, but I think something sweet like pancakes would do the trick. This’ll all only work if Grete has an appetite to begin with, though.
While the wizards continuously brought out their own ideas, Hans furrowed his brows, thinking hard.
Eventually, he nervously asks Rutile about something.
Hans: …I heard about it before from Mitile…what if you used your special magic, Mr. Rutile?
Rutile & Mitile: Huh?
He looked a little hurt when he saw their confused faces. As if to complain, he made large motions with his hands and continued.
Hans: Remember Mitile? You told me before that once when you were really upset, Mr. Rutile used his special magic on you.
And thanks to that, you cheered up.
Mitile: …Ah…
Figuring out what he meant by special magic, the two make eye contact.
But, their faces were cloudy.
Hans: Is it a hard spell to cast? Is that why you won’t cast it on Grete?
Then, let me help you! No matter how tricky it is, I'll do whatever to help out, so please try it!
If you do, maybe she’ll cheer up, and come out of her room!
Please…! I can’t use magic, but if it’s for her I’ll do anything!
Rutile: Hans…
Meeting eyes with the desperate Hans, Rutile kneels down and quietly takes his hands.
Rutile: You know, Hans, that may seem like magic, but it isn’t. You don’t need anything to use it.
All you need to do is keep Grete in your heart, and find a way to tell her how much you love her.
Hans: …So we can’t solve it with magic?
He sounded disappointed, and dropped his shoulders in dismay.
Hans: I thought if it was your magic, you could have fixed it right away…
Rutile: Hans…
Seeing how Hans looked, Rutile realizes what the true intention of the letter was.
Though he likely did want to rely on his sister’s favourite teacher, what he wanted the most was the special magic.
White: O child of man, you are not wrong.
If we use our magic, we can easily manipulate your sister out of her room.
However, whether we manipulate her into leaving her room or we forcibly drag her out and make her cry…
Both ways will only leave a deep wound on her heart.
Hans held his breath, stunned, and in shame he cast his gaze down.
White: I know you don’t want for any of that.
Hans: …Mm…
Snow: Then let us not concern ourselves over that. Would you tell us more about the day she trapped herself in?
At his question Hans lifted his head, and tried his hardest to remember the details of that day.
Hans: Uhm…it was…
We went to school together, and walked home together like usual. And then, Grete went to the flower field…
Mitile: She went alone?
Hans: Mmhmm. Grete likes to draw there the most. She always takes her art supplies with her and goes by herself.
Rutile: Up until then, Grete was still her usual self, correct?
Hans: Yeah…but, I think she seemed a little out of it when she returned.
Everytime she finishes a drawing, Grete would show it to me. That day though, she went straight to her room instead…
Arthur: Then it sounds like something happened at the flower field, causing her to feel scared perhaps, making her stay in her room.
Murr: Or, maybe she picked up a toxinous flower!
Mithra: I know some idiots like that. I’m talking about Rutile and Mitile.
Mitile: W-We didn’t mean to…!
White: There are many strange occurrences happening due to the Great Calamity growing stronger. Perhaps it is the same of the flower field.
I think it is time we paid it a visit.
The flower field Grete would go to wasn’t that far from the house.
Along the way there, Mithra begins muttering.
Mithra: Disgusting.
Rutile: Oh? Mithra, do you sense something already?
Mithra: Not at all. What is disgusting are those twins.
Watching them play goody two shoes gives me the chills. What’s the point in acting so sweet to humans?
Snow: Ohohoho, what are you going on about? We are always sweet, we’re the friendly twins after all!
It is only natural for us to want to help a pair of poor young siblings too.
White: Indeed, we wish for them to get along forevermore, like we do!
Snow & White: Kyakya!
Mithra: Is that so? Disgusting.
Snow & White: Read the room…
Riquet: …Anyways, about the ‘special magic’ Hans mentioned earlier, what did he mean by that?
He seemed to think that with that magic his sister would come out of her room…
Akira: I’m curious too. You said it doesn’t need magic though, right?
Mitile: That’s…
Rutile: He’s probably talking about the Celebratory Day of When the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met.
I remember that long phrase. It was the anniversary that Rutile and Mitile were getting ready for before they decided to come here.
Mitile: I didn’t think he’d misunderstand what I told him like this…
He must have taken it literally when I said that to me it was a special kind of magic.
Rutile: That just tells me how much you cherish that day, then! I’m happy to hear it.
Mitile: Hehehe, of course I would cherish it!
That day, I got back on my feet thanks to you!
Akira: Uhm, so I’ve been wondering, what is this Celebratory Day of When the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met?
Murr: The title gets me fired up just from hearing it! Do you light up fireworks? Give out candy?
Arthur: They did say that it requires flowers. Is it a seasonal festival for South Country?
Mitile turned a little red from embarrassment at the many questions, and with pride in his eyes he answered.
Mitile: It’s not a South Country anniversary or a seasonal festival…
It’s an anniversary that my brother made for me!
Akira: Rutile did?
A joyous smile spreads on Mitile’s face, like he was carrying an important treasure in his arms.
And then, he spoke of the first day the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat met.
< Index >
Chapter 5
Mitile: It was right after father had passed away…I spent everyday crying in my room.
Every morning, I used to greet father and brother, eat breakfast with them, get help in my studies, play together, and go to bed after saying goodnight to them.
When I thought about how I’d never be able to live those days again…I felt so sad, so lonely…
Mitile would spend his days crying alone in his room.
He couldn’t accept a world without his father. He shut himself inside his room, a shell to protect him from the real world.
And one day, the window opened, and someone entered into that shell.
Mitile: It was my brother, riding a broom. He was wearing mother’s hat, and he came up to me with a sparkle in his eyes.
He flapped the cloak he was wearing, and said to me,
Rutile: “I am the Great Wizard, Dancing Hat!”
Imitating himself from that time, Rutile spread his arms wide and puffed out his chest.
Snow: Ohohoho, so the Dancing Hat was Rutile this whole time.
White: Then that must make the Crybaby Bunny…
Mitile: …Me. Because my eyes were red from tears.
“You must be shocked,” he told me,
“Today is the day where we celebrate our first meeting between you, the Crybaby Bunny, and me, the Dancing Hat. I’ve hidden a treasure box in this house somewhere, so come and find it!”
To tell you the truth, I was too sad, confused, and didn’t feel in the mood to do any of that, and kept wondering why my brother was doing this.
But even so little Mitile went searching throughout the house, wiping his tears.
Until finally, he found one tiny box.
Inside it was a flower wreath that Rutile made.
Mitile: That flower wreath was made with me and my father’s favourite flower.
It’s a flower that father and I would often go to the flower fields to pick.
That’s when Rutile said, “Let’s remember him together.”
“Let’s remember our beloved father. It may be a bit sad, but that pain is proof we love him.”
“Whenever we see this wreath, let’s remember our feelings for our father, and treasure them.” as he hugged me.
…That’s when I realized at last. I was only thinking about myself, but brother had me on his mind the entire time.
Even though he was unbearably sad too. When I thought about that, I understood my brother’s feelings, his kindness, and how much he treasured me.
I shouldn’t be sad alone. No matter how painful it is, I still had my brother with me.
Mitile looks towards Rutile, and Rutile returns to him a kind smile.
Mitile: It was like a special kind of magic was casted on me. My tears had stopped, and then, pfft...ahaha…
Riquet: Mitile? Why are you laughing all of a sudden?
Remembering something, Mitile’s shoulders trembled and he began to laugh.
Mitile: Ahahaha, sorry. I just remembered it, so…
Rutile: When Mitile took another look at me, he started laughing so much.
Akira: Huh?
Mitile: Because when I took his whole appearance in, I could see that mother’s hat didn’t suit him at all!
Noticing that, I burst into laughter. The hat was too big on him, and since he flew in so fast, it made his hair a mess!
I couldn’t stop laughing…and then brother was the one who started crying.
Rutile: You finally smiled. I was so grateful.
Those words tugged at my heartstrings.
How worried Rutile was for Mitile.
How hurt Mitile was, and how much Rutile saved him.
Even if I wasn't there myself, those words were enough to help me understand their feelings.
Rutile: At that time I merely wanted to cheer Mitile up…
So I kept him in my heart, searching for the right way to show him how much I love him, and that was it.
I made a flower wreath with the flowers Mitile and father loved most, to try and tell him that there’s no need to forget this sadness…
that from now on we should continue to treasure our father's memory, and that happy days are still ahead of us..
Mitile: …Yes. I accepted your feelings.
After that, we made that day an anniversary.
It’s a special day that Rutile gave me, from all of the normal days out there.
Rutile: And every anniversary, we would do a humble little celebration with the two of us.
We’d make a flower wreath together, and on the day of, we would decorate our house door with it, and have a bigger meal than usual…
Since this year’s anniversary would be the first at the manor, we decided to do it Magic Manor-edition.
We planned on picking flowers from around the manor that we thought Mitile and father would both like.
Akira: So that’s why the two of you went flower picking.
Arthur: It’s a special anniversary to the two of you, born from your precious memories. Thank you for sharing such a lovely story with us.
Riquet: I was glad to hear it too. What was the flower you and your father loved, Mitile?
Mitile: Ehehehe, it’s actually the Glassflower!
Riquet & Akira: Really!
Mitile: Yep, and the flower field we’re heading to right now is the flower field we were originally planning on going to…so I do hope nothing strange has happened to it.
Murr: It really must be fate that brought us here!!
We must have been gathered here to look into that flower field and save Grete together!
Snow: We’ll be most sad to see that flower in anguish. Let’s put our best foot forward and investigate!
White: We’ve the advantage with this many wizards, especially with the super strong and cool Mithra with us!
Mithra: Don’t wanna. Sounds tiresome.
Snow: Come now, Mithy, must you always be like this!
Whtie: We’ve got high expectations for you, O Magic Manor’s Ace, Mithy!
Mitile: Hehe, thanks everyone. I bet we’ll get to the bottom of this in no time!
White: That’s right. As thanks for telling us a heartwarming story, won’t you let us help you with your preparations for the anniversary?
Riquet and the others nod at his proposal, and the Southern brothers smile warmly.
Rutile: We would love it if you did! And don’t just help out, you can definitely join us too!
Nothing would make us happier if everyone also came to treasure this day with us.
Riquet: Count me in! Mitile, will you teach me how to make a wreath?
I want to make a wreath with you most excellent that your father would enjoy.
Mitile: Yeah, let’s do that! I look forward to it!
Riquet: Yaaaay! I’ll do my best!
Oh, when we go back to the manor, I also want to create an anniversary just for the two of us.
Mitile: An anniversary between the two of us…? Ehehe, we have tons of memories together so that’ll be easy!
Riquet: Heehee, just imagining what day we should make gets my heart thumping! What sort of day would you like to make, Mitile?
Mitile: Huh, you’re asking me now? I can’t think of anything yet…
White: Now now, there’s no need to rush. As long as it’s something dear to both of you, anything will do.
Us twins too often make anniversaries here and there over whatever, like the “Day We Saw the Auroras” or the “Day We Saw a Rainbow” and many many more.
It’s a wonderful thing to have plenty of anniversaries. …Though you may end up forgetting some of them.
Snow: Whitey dear, are you still mad that I forgot about that anniversary the other day?
White: Ohohoho, I wonder.
Rutile: Ah, everyone, we’ve arrived!
Rutile points a finger forward.
Beyond the grass grown road, was a vibrant and colourful carpet, twinkling before our eyes.
< Index >
Chapter 6
Once we arrived, we all gasped in awe at the sight in front of us.
Akira: Wooow…!
Murr: Wahooooo! So sparkly!!
The flower field spread out before us was shining as if they were all jewels and gems.
Rainbow coloured specks of light fill the field, the same shine as a diamond.
Riquet: What a stunning sight this is…
Arthur: Indeed…I can’t believe there’s a flower field that glimmers as much as this. What is this phenomenon…?
Mitile: Hehehe, take a good look by your feet!
Listening to Mitile I look down, and notice that not all the flowers were wrapped in light.
It’s just that within the groups of normal flowers, there were numerous flowers that shone brilliantly.
Rutile: They may be small, but they’re pretty, aren’t they? The flowers that are shining are the Glassflowers.
Akira: So that’s…
When I moved closer to the sparkling flowers, I recognized it as the one I saw in the field guide. It was a glass artwork that was sprouting from the ground.
Looking at it in real life was much different than looking at it from a picture.
These flowers blooming under the sunlight shone as if they were letting off the sun’s light they gathered, specks of light twinkling about them.
The petals I thought to be solid were delicate to the touch, and a red light reflected on my hand.
Murr: Lookie look, Master Sage! The reflection these flowers let off is so colourful! If we grow this flower throughout the land, the entire world would probably sparkle!
And then my everyday and your everyday would begin to be shiny!
Akira: Hahaha, you might be right. We could enjoy not only the pretty flowers but even its reflections!
Snow: It’s been so long since I’ve seen them in bloom. It’s so healing and charming to look at…
White: Truly, it is.
Mithra: Iff dat so? The tashte ish sho-sho.
Snow: Mithy…!!
White: You do not eat the flowers…!
Rutile: Hmhm, I’m glad you like them, Mithra. You know, Mitile loves to put these by the window and gaze at them.
Mitile: I do! When it reflects the light the inside of the room becomes so sparkly…
Oh, but the one who did it first was father. After I saw him go to the fields and decorate the windows, I started doing it too.
Rutile and Mitile’s eyes dazzle as they squint, reminiscing the past.
Within the colourful reflections of these glassflowers was surely the times they spent with their family here.
Sparkling memories as dazzling as their rainbow speckled lights.
Riquet: …Ah! Look over there, everyone!
What Riquet pointed at was two long ears within the bunches of flowers. I strained my eyes to get a closer look…
Arthur: It’s a bunny!
Snow: It really is! And they’re all over the place.
Arthur: If there really was some strange influence from the Great Calamity here, the animals would be affected too, but…
We all surveyed the area. The bunnies hopping about the field look nothing out of the ordinary.
Snow: …I don’t sense anything malevolent here.
White: Rutile, Mitile, is this flower field the same one you know and love?
Rutile: It is. The one we’ve always known.
Mitile: I don’t see anything wrong with it too.
Snow: I guessed so. There is no strange occurrence or influence from the Great Calamity here.
Crossing off one thing on the To-Worry list, I let out a sigh of relief. The Southern brothers too look relieved, a soft expression on both their faces.
Mitile: So, did Grete pick up a poisonous flower…?
Rutile: I don’t think it’s plausible for us to not have known about a flower like that around here…
Mithra: I don’t sense anything dangerous here. If there was, I would have eradicated this entire flower field by now.
Murr: And nothing that hurts the stomach either! Mithra taste tested that for us.
Riquet: I see, so the reason why Mithra was eating those flowers earlier was to check for poison.
Akira: (I don’t think that’s the reason…)
Murr: There does seem to be plants here that can energize you or make you feel sleepy, but nothing poisonous of the sort!
Akira: So that means the flower field has nothing to do with Grete’s case?
Mitile: …
I guess something upsetting really did happen to Grete then…
If that’s the case, then she must be really hurting from her heart.
…Isn’t there anything I can do for her…
Being able to relate to Grete, Mitile’s desire to help her came from the heart.
Seeing his brother like that Rutile could only smile. It was an encouraging one, one that made you feel safe.
Rutile: There must be. Let’s all look for a way to get Grete to come out of her room together.
Arthur: Agreed. First, we should look for the cause of what made Grete upset.
Mithra: Why should we have to go through all that when we can just use magic to search her head?
I mean, that’s not my speciality, but if it’s a tiny bit of peeking then surely the twins can manage it.
Snow: Hey. Don’t you recall us telling you that we mustn’t meddle with the mind like that.
White: Right. Today, using magic on the mind is banned!
Mithra: Then what do you suppose we do? Do you plan on having us stay in the South until this is all resolved?
White: Calm down now. At times like these you must leave it to the cute and angelic wizard Whitey!
Snow: Woooo! You’re lovely, Whitey dear!
White: Ohohoho, if it’s for the cute children I can always lend a hand or two to help out!
I thought there’d be something like this, so I borrowed a little something from Grete’s house.
Rutile & Mitile: What’s that?
White recited his spell, and a single piece of paper appeared.
A lone brown bunny was drawn on it, and its black eyeballs were simply adorable.
Akira: This is one of Grete’s drawings.
White: Yup. I will bring this bunny to life, and have it search for the place where Grete’s presence is most strong.
A being brought to life from one of Grete’s belongings will be much more effective in searching for her.
Noscomnia.
With a wave of energy Grete’s drawing lights up, and its edges start wavering, until the bunny hops out from the paper with vigor.
Rutile & Mitile: Woah!
White: We might be able to find the reason why Grete has shut herself in if we follow this little one.
Alrighty, we’re counting on you.
As an answer the bunny twitches its nose, and then shows interest in a certain direction.
When it settled on where, it dashed with enthusiasm.
Akira: That is FAST!?
Mitile: W-Wait for us…!
Everyone hurries after the bunny as it runs throughout the field.
Except, the more we run the farther it gets.
Arthur: As usual, bunnies sure are fast! This brings me back to when I’d play tag with them, though I never could tag them!
White: Apologies my friends, I put in a little too much power in my eagerness to find the cause.
Murr: Even for a dead guy you’re so strong White! As expected of a Northern wizard!
Mithra: Hmph, that is nothing. If it was me I could make one even faster.
Mitile: Uuuh, we can’t catch up. At this rate it’ll…
Rutile: I’ll go!
Mithra: Wa–
Rutile, who dashed out into the front, leaps upwards as if gravity doesn’t mean a thing to him, and his hands light up faintly.
He hops onto the summoned broom, and is gone with the wind.
< Index >
Chapter 7
Mithra: Is he an absolute idiot!? Doesn’t he know what could happen to him if he fell at that speed!
In a panic, Mithra follows after Rutile. Next, Murr jumps forward.
Murr: *whistle* Time to play tag!
Snow: Ohohoho, how lively.
White: We should follow suit. Sage, you will ride on my broom.
Akira: Okay, thanks!
Atop our brooms we chased after the bunny, which stopped in front of an imposing stump near the flower field.
At its base was a hole large enough for one child to slip into.
Akira: What’s this…?
White: It could be the remnants of a rabbit’s burrow or bird’s nest. Nonetheless it appears the owner isn’t home.
Mitile: Maybe there’s something in here related to Grete. Let’s peek insi…waaah!?
Just when Mitile crouched to peek inside, Mithra grabbed him by the scruff of his collar.
Mithra: I’ll do it. I don’t sense any danger, but in the worst case scenario a weakling like you wouldn’t be able to protect yourself.
Arthim.
He utters his spell listlessly. With a pop, the stump was lifted from the ground.
Snow: Talk about flashy.
Completely absorbed in what he’s doing, Mithra ignores the gazes of those around him and squats.
He uses his long arms to brush aside the branches and leaves within the hole, revealing a tube laying on its side.
The bunny that hopped inside sniffs at it.
White: Grete’s presence is highly concentrated here on this tube.
Mithra takes the tube out of the hole and opens its lid, slipping out a single piece of paper.
Everyone held in their breaths once they saw what was on the paper Mithra rolled out.
It wasn’t something dangerous or under the influence of the Calamity.
It was a captivating piece of artwork containing many plants.
Riquet: It’s beautiful…what a splendid painting.
Snow: Hmm, this is more a print than a painting.
It was different from a landscape painting, there were numerous types of plants and flowers drawn onto it, filling up as much space as possible.
The usage of black and white only was not at all monotonous, and every plant looked like it could be the main drawing, each having its own charm and edge.
They looked like they belonged in a field guide, with each plant’s special qualities depicted accurately, and the gracefully drawn flowers a sight to behold.
Arthur: Isn’t this…
Akira: Arthur?
While everyone was stunned by its beauty, Arthur let out a surprised sound.
Arthur: This is a print copy of a famous Central artist’s work. I believe this was in production years ago.
A painting in Granvelle Castle has the same artist’s name on its signature just like the one here, right next to the date.
Rutile: …A painting from Central…
Akira: Do you know this?
Rutile: No, but a coworker of mine at school is an art enthusiast. They once told me about an artwork from Central they wished to attain.
It was hung at their friend’s house when they first saw it, and fell in love with it at first sight. They told me that if they were to obtain a print copy of it too, they’d show it to Grete…
Murr: So this is it then?
Mitile: But why would it be hidden here of all places?
Rutile: …
Akira: (…Rutile?)
Rutile kept on staring at the bunny who was looking up at the painting.
As if he was hurt by something, his usually bright eyes darkened.
White: For starters, we’ve found a good lead. How about we visit this coworker of Rutile’s and see if we can find another clue there?
Rutile: …Yes.
We moved to where Rutile used to work, the school.
The aforementioned coworker took the painting into their hands, their eyes widening.
Teacher: This…This is definitely the painting I gave her.
Grete loves drawing, you see. When the print copy finally arrived I showed it to her thinking she’d be overjoyed to see it.
She said she wanted to look at it some more, so I lent it to her for her to decorate her home perhaps. To think she’d not come to school after that…
They didn’t think it right to ask for it back with how things were, so they left it in her hands ever since.
Rutile: Is that so…
I would like to hold onto this painting for a little longer if that’s okay. I want to speak with Grete about something.
Teacher: Oh, go ahead. I leave it in your capable hands.
Uhm…could it be that perhaps she lost the painting, became upset over that and stopped coming to school?
Rutile: Huh?
Teacher: You found it in the flower fields right? Maybe she’s distressed over having misplaced it.
If that’s the case Rutile, please tell her that there is no need to worry about it.
Rutile: …I will be sure to tell her that. Thank you so much.
Noticing something, White looks outside the window.
White: Why, isn’t that Hans?
When I look outside, I see Hans running towards the school.
He was coming to the classroom we were in.
Hans: Mr. Rutile…!
Rutile: Hans! What is it? Aren’t you supposed to be at home…
Hans: I ran after you. I saw you guys going to school so…
I…was thinking about what you said to me. A way to tell her…Grete…how much I love her.
That’s how you cheered up Mitile right?
So I wanna do it too! I’ll cheer Grete up!
Hans’ eyes were determined. I could feel how strong his resolve and wholehearted feelings for his sister were.
I knew he was properly thinking about her, just like how Rutile did for Mitile.
Rutile broke into a smile at Hans, his gently narrowed eyes full of praise.
Rutile: You found an idea, haven’t you. A way to tell Grete how much you love her.
Hans: I did. But to do so, I need to see her.
And with no door between us! I have to meet with her, face to face. So, could you help me…?
Rutile: Of course I will. If there’s anything I can do, ask me!
Rutile pats his chest with enthusiasm, and then turns to look at Mitile.
Rutile: Mitile, it may be a little early, but how about we hold the anniversary of the Day the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met?
Mitile: Fine with me! It’ll be a specialler anniversary this year, made to get Grete’s smile back!
Hans: Anniversary…? And what’s that about a Crybaby Bunny…?
Mitile: It’s that special magic you mentioned! A magic that turns a normal day into a special day!
Riquet: Yes. With your feelings, Hans, you’ll surely succeed.
Arthur: So you must tell Grete how much you love her, from the bottom of your heart.
And no need to fear, you have us at your side.
Rutile. Hans, you must have felt so anxious up until now. You did a good job holding on.
In order to get Grete to come out of her room, and so that she can smile once again with you…
we’ll do all in our power to make today an unforgettable anniversary!
Hans: T-Thank you…I’ll do my best too!
< Index >
Chapter 8
Snow: Ohohoho. Looks like it’s finally time.
Snow & White: Noscomnia!
Rutile & Mitile: Woah…!
When the twins sang their spell, everyone’s clothes changed into fancy pastel coloured clothing.
Snow: How is it? It is an aesthetic we quite like. Cute, isn't it?
White: Ohohoho, we added the ears and tail for the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat!
Akira: I love it! Great job, you two!
Splendid clothes perfect for a day of celebration, that brightens the mood of anyone who looks at it.
Snow & White: We will put in our all to celebrate the Day of When the Crybaby Bunny and Dancing Hat Met.
Grete: (Oh good, looks like no one’s home at the moment…after I drink some water, it’s back to my room.)
(Huh? One of my drawings is on the table…)
…
Hans: This is awesome, Grete! It’s like the flowers are actually blooming from the paper!
Grete: Ehehe, thank you big bro! I think I did a good job too.
Hans: Hey Grete, how about we put this up in a spot it’ll stand out most!
It’s so pretty that it makes me happy! You really are a great artist.
Grete: (He said all that but in the end…)
Uu…*sniff* …Ah.
(I, I can’t…the paper will get wet…Huh?)
Why is my flower…squiggling? Huh…what?
N-No way! The drawing flew from the page out the window!
(No…it’s not just the flower…all my drawings on the wall are…)
Why are you all blank! Where did you all go!
Waiting for Grete in the flower field we finished our preparations and could see the figure of a young girl running towards us.
We knew it was Grete from how similar her face was to Hans.
She searches her surroundings, unable to see us,
for we had magic casted on us by the twins to turn us invisible.
Though we who had the same spell casted on us could see each other, Grete could not sense a thing.
Grete: Haah, haah…where is my flower…?
Hm? What a pointy hat…it’s falling…
What Grete was looking at a ways before her was a big black hat that belonged to Rutile and Mitile’s mother, Tiletta.
On its round edge was a simple frilled trimming, and at the top of this triangular shaped hat was a little flower swaying in the wind.
Timidly she approaches the hat, stretching out a hand when the hat swirls its way to her, floating circles in the air.
Grete: ?!
Hat: Welcome, my Crybaby Bunny.
Grete: It talked!
Dancing Hat: Hmhm. Have I startled you little one? Greetings, I am the Great Wizard, Dancing Hat!
Grete: The Great Wizard…Dancing Hat?
Dancing Hat: That is me. And today is a day where we celebrate our union. Now, will you play with me?
The Dancing Hat spins around the flower field, looking over it, its fabric wiggling.
Dancing Hat: Let’s go treasure hunting. I’ve hidden a treasure here in this flower field.
It is an artwork painted with various colours, and there’s only one like it in this world. I’m certain you’ve been searching for it too.
Grete: …Is the treasure…my drawing?
If it is, then you’re wrong. A bad drawing like that isn’t a treasure!
If it’s lost, then that’s fine. I don’t need to find it…
Dancing Hat: But weren’t you set on chasing after it?
Grete: …
Dancing Hat: Is it really okay with you to not find the treasure?
Grete: It’s not a treasure!
Cause…my art isn’t anything good!
Dancing Hat: …Why do you think so?
Could you tell me the reason?
Grete: …At school, my teacher showed me this painting of flowers by an artist from Central.
It was super pretty…it was the kind of art you call ‘masterpiece’. My drawings aren’t anything like it…
I really loved drawing art…I was so proud of it. Even my big bro praised me all the time.
But I think if he saw that painting…he wouldn’t compliment my art anymore.
So I hid it…and when I came home, I felt so terrible about what I did…
I never thought I was the kind of girl who’d do that…
And even though I knew I had to return the painting to my teacher…
I was so ashamed of myself that I couldn’t leave my room…
That’s how I know that my drawing isn’t a treasure at all.
My drawings think so too, that’s why they all left, because I’m a girl who can’t draw well and does terrible things.
Dancing Hat: …
Oh dear…
The flowers around them begin to rustle, even though the wind wasn’t blowing. From there, vibrant coloured papers appeared.
Grete: What…
It was Grete’s drawings. A soft colour scheme, a warm brush hand, the many drawn flowers and animals, and her happily smiling family and friends.
Hopping with glee the papers begin to dance around her.
It looked as though the drawings were trying to cheer her up.
Dancing Hat: They couldn’t handle playing hide and seek any longer once they saw your falling tears.
Grete: Uu…everyone…
Rutile: Your drawings love you, Grete.
Grete: …! Mr. Rutile!
A shadow lightly appears before Grete who was staring at the ground, who turns to look up at Rutile.
Rutile, who was holding the pointy hat, tenderly smiled like the flowers that faced the sun.
Grete: So the Great Wizard, Dancing Hat was you, Mr. Rutile…?
Rutile: Hehe, are you surprised? Sorry if I scared you for a bit. I wanted to tell you something.
Grete, will you listen to me?
Grete: …Okay…
Rutile: No matter how many other beautiful pieces of artwork there are out there, it doesn’t change the fact that your drawings are amazing too.
Look at your drawings, they’re all saying “I love you!”
I believe that’s because you carefully put in your love and effort while drawing them.
And Grete, there is nothing wrong with what you’re feeling. It’s a side everyone has.
Grete: Huh…?
Rutile: Everybody has a vulnerable side to them, like you, like me.
Accepting that side of you takes great courage. There are some adults out there who even try to hide it, and act strong instead.
So I think that the you who properly faced her vulnerable side is a veeeery great girl!
Grete: Mr. Rutile…
Rutile: …I found the painting. Do you want to return it with me later?
Grete: …Yes. I’m sorry, Mr. Rutile.
Rutile: You have nothing to apologize for, Grete. The teacher who lent you that painting isn’t mad either.
Grete: …
…But…I’m still scared…
And…if big bro knew about this, I know he’d…
Grete was slightly trembling, afraid to voice out her next words.
< Index >