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Jun. 12th, 2023
Chapter 1
Luca: Is he in this tree hollow…? Hello, are you there?
Thank you for saving me and Emily from that wolf earlier…we’re really, really grateful.
We didn’t think any wolves would come into this forest.
It was wounded and out of control…if you hadn’t used your magic to chase it away I don’t know what would have happened to us…we have you to thank for our lives.
Emily: I know it’s not much, but we brought some soup, in case you were hungry.
???: …
Emily: Please, eat it while it’s hot.
???: I…don’t need any thanks…
Luca: The forest is a mess…no trees seem to have toppled over though.
Emily: Are you alright, little wizard? That was quite the storm last night…
???: …I’m fine. Don’t worry about me.
Emily: Oh, thank goodness…hey, if you’re ever in trouble, we’d like to be there for you.
Luca: We live in the Town of Clouds just beyond this path. Our house is the blue-roofed one, so if there’s anything you need, come on over.
It must be tough by yourself.
???: …
Luca: I have some good news. I’m…getting married to Emily.
I was so stuck on whether I should propose to her or not, but that day you saved us in the forest gave me the courage I needed.
I realized at that moment I shouldn’t take these days of peace for granted. That I could lose her anytime.
???: …!
Luca: So we’d love for you to be at our wedding! It’s thanks to you that we’re alive to hold it.
There’ll be all kinds of food, and everyone in town will welcome you. I understand if you don’t want to, but please think about it.
And…since I kept missing my chance to ask…could you tell me your name?
???: …Al.
Luca: Al…!
Al, this is your invitation. I’ll leave it right here. Be seeing you!
Al: A wedding…I have to say goodbye soon…maybe a peek will be okay.
Those two are so kind and caring…
…It should have been Lizzy, not me…
A calm afternoon on a sunny day.
I opened the door to the dining hall, excited for today’s menu, and a burst of lively chatter entered my ears.
Rutile: Aah, I’m soooo curious! I wish I was there to see it!
Mitile: Mr. Leno, did he tell you anything?
Lennox: He did say a bit, but you’re best asking him for the details.
It sounded like he wanted to tell you in person anyways.
Rutile: Really! Ooh, I can’t wait for the story.
Did he reference a love poem? Or was he indirect, letting her read inbetween the lines…! Somebody, stop my imagination!
Riquet: Wouldn’t being indirect make it harder for her to understand his intentions?
Shylock: The art of being indirect is a language understood between couples in love.
Akira: Hey guys. What’re we talking about?
Rutile: Love!
Akira: Love!?
A bit surprised by his answer, I began to stutter.
Akira: W-Who’s in love…?
Rutile: Someone we know back at home.
Their names are Emily and Luca, and they just sent us a letter about their wedding along with an invitation!
They also wrote that they’d love for the Sage’s wizards to come too, so we were going around the manor asking everyone’s schedules, but…
We got too excited talking about how he might have proposed!
Akira: I get the picture now. You must be happy for them!
When you said ‘love’ at first, I thought it was about someone here.
Shylock: Hmhm, I can share plenty of stories about that another time.
Akira: Huh?!
(Shylock’s love stories…they must be rich in content…)
Lennox: Master Sage, have a seat here.
While my heart was still thumping at Shylock’s words, Lennox pulled out a chair for me.
Akira: Oh thanks, Lennox.
Firmly seated, I waited for my meal and formally entered the conversation.
Akira: You guys are probably friendly with everyone in town but, are you close with this Luca and Emily?
Rutile: Yep! Emily’s older than me, but there was a time where she asked me to teach her calligraphy, so we practiced with each other.
Mitile: She would bake this yummy bread as thanks, and we’d eat it together!
Rutile: As for Luca, he’s more close with Mr. Leno.
Lennox: Mm. He’s also a shepherd, and would come to me for advice.
Rutile: I heard that the reason why Luca became a shepherd is because of you, Mr. Leno!
Akira: For real?
Rutile: Seeing Mr. Leno returning home every year with his herd of sheep to support the town was his inspiration.
When he was a kid, he’d help out a bit and admired how respectable and fulfilling the job was.
Lennox: I remember. Everyday he’d ask me questions about sheep care, or work out with me to build up the stamina to cross mountains. As a kid he was earnest, and as a fellow shepherd now, he’s reliable.
Akira: He sounds like a neat guy! I’d like to meet him.
Lennox: …Master Sage, if you’re available, would you come attend the wedding?
When I met them last, they told me that they would love to meet you.
He said, taking out the invitation and informing me of the date.
Akira: Hey, I don’t have anything on that day! I can go!
Rutile: Great! I bet they’ll be overjoyed hearing the Master Sage is coming!
Mitile: Riquet and Mr. Shylock are coming too!
Dr. Figaro can’t come though…
Akira: Is he booked for the day?
Lennox: Yes. There are appointments he unfortunately could not cancel.
Akira: That sucks…I'll celebrate their wedding to the fullest for Figaro too!
Nero: Order up, Master Sagey.
Turning around to that delicious smell, was an omelette that Nero made. He placed it before me.
Akira: It looks so soft…thanks, Nero!
Nero: And here’s a treat for the kids who ate earlier.
Mitile & Riquet: Yippee, it’s cookies!
Rutile: So Nero, will you be attending the wedding?
Nero: Err…
It appears that Rutile already asked him. He tilted his head, still deciding.
Akira: (Nero and the other Eastern wizards do usually take their time thinking about whether they’ll attend these sorts of events…)
Mitile: You don’t have to think so hard, Mr. Nero.
It's the more the merrier in the Town of Clouds! Everyone would love for you to be there!
Riquet: Indeed. We also must have you taste the traditional cooking of South that’s reserved for ceremonies.
Nero: …You just want me to remake any dishes that you liked when we get home, don’tcha.
Riquet: If it’s you Nero, you can prepare any food, specialty or not!
Although we do lose that special feeling of eating it traditionally, it might be troublesome if I’m unable to resist my appetite for it.
Nero: Pfft. ‘kay, I getcha. So, you’ll have me, then?
Mitile & Riquet: Yeees!
Akira: What are South Country weddings like? I gotta know the customs beforehand.
Rutile: Hm, nothing really comes to mind.
Lennox: If I had to say, we all wear more clean cut clothes than usual, and celebrate our hearts out together.
Rutile: We celebrate with everyone in town, so it’s very energetic.
Riquet: What sort of dishes and desserts do you put out?
Mitile: Rollito de Pollo is a must-serve!
We like to change the flavours according to the taste of the to-be-wedded, so you get to enjoy a different side to it.
Rutile: Hehe, and it’s your favourite, right Mitile? Add in salt, and he’ll lick the plate clean!
Mitile: W-Well, it’s yummy, and…and…
Don’t you eat tons when it comes to Porranborn?!
Akira: Porranborn?
Rutile: It’s a dessert where you mix sugar and crushed almonds into flour, and bake it after letting it rest a night.
Mitile: They say that before the sugars dissolve in your mouth you’re supposed to think “May this happiness continue” and it’ll come true!
Owen: I’ll cast a spell on you that keeps it in your mouth forever. Then you can wish for happiness to continue for an eternity.
I wonder how long you can pray for happiness on an unbreaking candy.
Akira: Owen!
Our eyes all widened at our new guest. How long was he standing behind me for?
Riquet: Hey, those cookies were for us!
Not giving any attention to Riquet's words, he popped a cookie into his mouth.
Owen: I’m coming to the wedding too.
Akira: Erm…
Owen: Oh, don’t want me? Wooow, the Master Sage is excluding me from the fun.
Akira: N-No, I don’t want that!
Red and yellow eyes sneer at me. I couldn’t help but be unsettled at the idea of Owen attending a wedding of his own volition.
Index >
Chapter 2
Rutile: Thank you, Owen.
I bet everyone back home will be surprised to see such a strong wizard like you appear.
Mitile: R-Rutile…maybe we should rethink this…?
He tugged on his brother’s sleeve, staring at the cookies that were disappearing one by one with a nervous face. On the flipside, Rutile was all smiles.
Akira: (It’s not that I want to exclude Owen, but I do get where Mitile’s coming from…what should we do?)
That was when Lennox lowered his face to Mitile’s, whispering in his ear.
Lennox: No worries. There’s me, Shylock, and Nero to help if anything happens.
Besides, I’m sure that all Owen wants is the desserts served at the wedding.
Seeing his small smile, Mitile relaxed and gave a nod.
Shylock: Well, it’s time we put ourselves to work. We do want this to be a fantastic wedding after all.
Nero: Err, who’s ‘we’?
Eh…guess I could bring some cookies.
The kids did lose theirs, and I bet you wanna eat more, Owen.
Owen: Please.
Mitile: Thank you Mr. Nero!
Akira: (Thanks to the three of them, we managed to settle down a bit…)
(It’s a strange party we’re bringing to the event, but…I’m looking forward to how it will turn out.)
After a couple days of preparations and figuring out who’s coming, the day finally arrived.
Wearing the clothes Chloe made for us, we all headed to the Town of Clouds.
Rutile: I feel so fresh and classy in these! They’re perfect.
Akira: And the flowers we each have pinned to our chests are all unique…!
Shylock: That’s Chloe’s brilliance for you. He already had wedding attire at the ready and added a Southern flair to them.
He put his best wishes for the newly wedded into these very seams, since he would be absent.
Lennox: That sort of consideration’s just like him.
Nero: Riquet, feel free to scarf down any food y’see. I’ll magic away the stains for ya.
Riquet: Ugh, how old am I to you!
Mitile: I need to give my thanks to Chloe once we get back. I am so ready to celebrate in this tux!
Owen: Well I’m not.
The reason our northern wizard was in such a bad mood despite participating in this wedding ceremony himself was because of the presence of the world’s favourite wizard.
Oz: …
Owen: Why is this guy here.
Riquet: I invited him because he had nothing better to do. Wouldn’t Oz be lonely if we all left without him?
Owen: Hah, lonely, he says. How pathetic, you’re being pitied by a child.
Riquet: I do not want to be called a child by the man who attended a wedding just for the desserts.
Mitile: R-Riquet!
Owen: What was that? You know, I think that bride’s dress could use a red paint dye using your blood.
Oz: Owen. Do you think you could attempt to do anything with me here?
Owen: Tch. This really is the worst.
Rutile: Come on now, everyone. No fighting on this glorious day!
Akira: (Maybe Oz is here to look after Owen too…?)
Uhm, the wedding’s going to be held at the edge of town, right?
Lennox: Yes. A little further and we should see an arch. That’s our destination.
Mitile: The arch is decorated by the townspeople on the days leading up to the wedding. We helped out also when we were in town!
Everyone makes the wedding dress for the bride too.
He pumps out his chest in pride.
Akira: It’s really admirable how every single thing’s done by the townspeople…!
Compared to other countries, South Country is underdeveloped. In exchange, the relations between residents are ever deeper.
They treat their neighbours not as strangers, but as extended family.
Akira: (Today’s gonna be good.)
???: Waaaah!
Rutile, Mitile, & Riquet: !?
The wind blew and carried with it panic and clamour, disturbing the peaceful atmosphere.
Mitile: W-Was that a scream just now…? I think it was coming from the venue…!
Lennox: Something must have happened. Let’s go.
Akira: What is…
We rushed to the scene, and found a chaotic mess instead of a graceful venue.
Chairs were broken, and the arch that Mitile spoke of was split in the middle.
???: Lennox!
Underneath it, was a man calling out Lennox’s name.
Like a lost younger brother spotting his older brother, relief echoed in his tone. Even so, those chestnut brown eyes of his held panic.
Next to him was a veiled woman with furrowed brows, looking at us with sorrow.
Luca: Thank goodness, you came! The thing is…
Huh, who’re you…?
Akira: It’s nice to meet you. I’m the Sage Akira. Are you Luca and…?
Emily: Emily. We’ve heard of you from Lennox. It’s such a shame to be meeting under these conditions,
especially since we’ve been wanting to meet you for a while. I’m so sorry, you all came just to see this. I don’t think we’ll be holding the wedding today…
Akira: Oh no, don’t apologize! Could you tell us what happened before we arrived?
Oz: I sense traces of magic.
Mitile: …!
Mitile anxiously observes our surroundings.
Mitile: Did a bad wizard wanting to take over the town come…?
There was a story that Mitile once heard.
A story about an evil wizard who once tried to take over the Town of Clouds, but was fended off by Tiletta.
Emily: No, not at all! That little wizard, Al, he didn’t mean to…
Lennox: Al? Is he someone you two know?
Luca: Yeah. He’s a wizard around your age, Mitile, and he saved us the other day from a wolf in the nearby forest.
We don’t know his situation, but he’s been living there all alone.
Emily: He wouldn’t come to town when we asked him to, but he finally did when we invited him to our wedding!
He even gave us words of congratulations…I was so happy, but…
Luca: For a second he looked to be in pain, and that’s when the destruction happened.
Emily: Al shouted at us to run though! It seemed that his magic ran out of control. He must’ve been so scared…
Oz: The traces of magic left here are weak and brittle.
Yet I also sense the influence of the Great Calamity mixed within.
Luca & Emily: The Great Calamity…!?
Lennox: Due to the Great Calamity’s last visit, there have been strange anomalies occurring all over the land.
Rutile: I do remember a mission where we had a case of a wizard’s magic going out of control…
Luca: Even though he came here to congratulate us…he may be a wizard, but he’s still a child. He’s probably scared out of his mind right now…
Lennox: …Luca, Emily. Could you leave Al to us?
Luca: No, we’ll come with you!
Seeing their earnest expressions and sincere words, I could tell that they cared for this Al from the bottom of their hearts.
Lennox put his hand on Luca’s shoulder, trying to comfort him.
Lennox: I know from your words alone that this Al bears no malice.
But if the Great Calamity’s involved, we don’t know what could happen.
There’s a chance that Al might hurt you against his own wishes.
Besides, you two are going to be married. I want you to wait here.
The couple stared into each other’s eyes for a bit, nodding in decision.
Luca: …We understand.
Al disappeared from the venue in order to stop anymore destruction. I think he went into the forest.
You know that massive tree in the middle of the forest with a hollow in it? He’s made home there.
Lennox, I trust Al to you.
Lennox: Leave it to me.
Like tightly knotted threads had come undone, Luca’s expression began to brighten at Lennox’s words.
Luca: Hearing you say those words always fills me with hope that things will go okay.
Takes me back to when we worked together.
Lennox: …
Mm. It will be alright.
His expression darkened for a moment. It was so brief, I couldn’t figure at all what he was thinking.
All of a sudden, a racket of footsteps was heard behind us, and when we turned we found the townspeople who had evacuated earlier.
Townsperson: Mitile, I’m sorry to ask this of you even though you just arrived, but we need your help.
We don’t have many injured among us, but my child tripped over debris during the chaos.
Mitile: I can help! Sorry, Mr. Leno, is it alright if I stay in town?
Lennox: Yeah, that’s a good idea. Will you be alright on your own? Can we…
Youngster: Woah, mister! Are you that hungry? You shouldn’t eat the food in that condition…
Owen: Shut it. I do what I want.
When we looked over, we saw Owen at a broken-legged table, scooping up the crumbled desserts into his mouth.
Owen: I come all the way to the countryside, and get dragged into this mess? What a pain. Hey, you wanna end up all mushed like this cake?
Oz: …I will stay behind.
He meant to say that he’ll be watching over him.
< Index >
Chapter 3
Oz: Though I mentioned there being traces of the Calamity, it was not anything you couldn’t handle.
Even so, call on me should there be trouble.
Lennox: We will, thank you.
Now then, we should proceed to the forest in the smallest group possible. The more members we bring, the more pressured he may feel.
So Nero, Shylock. Can I have you two stay behind and look over the situation?
Nero: Got it.
Shylock: Understood.
Lennox: Rutile, Riquet, please come with me.
Rutile & Riquet: Roger that!
Akira: Lennox, let me come with you. I might be of help if it’s to do with the Great Calamity.
Lennox: Alright. You can ride on my broom. Let’s go, everyone.
Hopping onto Lennox’s broom, we steadily rose up, Rutile and Riquet following behind us.
Akira: (This morning I was imagining how the wedding would go, and now we’re here…)
Rutile: …
Rutile looked sad as he watched over the town that was growing smaller the higher we flew.
Rutile: Ah…that spot must be the tree Luca was talking about.
Lennox: Yeah. I can sense something strange too.
Riquet: He said that Al was about Mitile’s age, right? I wonder why a kid like him is living alone this deep in the forest.
Lennox: A manner of things could happen to a wizard in their life, even young or newly born.
Rutile: That’s true…if Al’s in trouble, I want to be of help for him…
If it were back in my world, children around Mitile’s age sleeping outside homeless and alone would be headline news.
But in this world, it’s an accepted truth that no matter how young you were, even a child could provide for themselves alone.
Akira: (Al might be handling more hardship than I could even imagine…)
(We have to find him soon…)
Spying a tree more impressive than the rest, we lowered our brooms to the ground and examined the area.
As Luca and Emily mentioned, there was a large hollow in the tree, big enough for a group of adults to stand in.
Around it were wooden chairs and shelves, with bottles and cooking utensils lined up. You could tell it’s been lived in.
Lennox: It must be here. From the looks of it he must be used to travelling.
Riquet: Do you guys hear something from within the hollow?
Pointing my ears towards the tree, I heard a small voice.
???: Lizzy, I, I…what should I do…how did this…
Akira: Is he talking to someone…?
Riquet: But he’s supposedly living alone…maybe he actually had a friend.
Lennox: We don’t know that yet. For now, let’s try talking to him.
I might scare him if it’s me. Rutile, can you?
Rutile: Leave it to me!
Slowly approaching the hollow, Rutile greets the resident with a kind voice.
Rutile: Hello. Are you home, Al?
The whisper of a voice we heard before came to a stop.
Rutile: It’s okay, you’re safe. I just wanted to ask you about something…
Wah!
A young boy dashed out of the tree, deep green hair alike the leaves growing upon these trees rustled in the wind.
Al: ….Ngh! I’m, I’m sorry…!
He pulled out a broom and lept on it with speed, flying high into the air.
Rutile: Oh, please wait!
The wizards all summoned their brooms to chase after him, but we soon noticed the abnormality in his flying.
Riquet: Isn’t it a bit…weird? His broom is shaking so much…
Instead of riding a broom, it was more like he was sitting on a broom that shook left and right on its own.
Lennox: He just had a magic outburst, so he’s not yet recovered. Let’s go…
The broom came to a halt.
Al: Uh…?
Waaaaah!
And came tumbling down. I could see him clinging tight to the broom for his dear life, yet his descent only quickened.
Akira: No…!
Rutile: Ortonik Setomaouge!
He quickly said his spell, and the boy and the broom began to float midair, rising downwards slowly.
Without a moment’s delay, Lennox rushed to his fall and caught the boy in his arms.
Lennox: …Are you hurt?
He blinked like he couldn’t believe his eyes, and muttered a response.
Al: N-No, I’m fine…are you guys…wizards too?
Lennox: Mm.
Akira: Are you alright?!
Rutile: I must have startled you approaching so suddenly. I hope you can forgive me.
Riquet: There's no need to be afraid. We are not here to accuse or capture you.
Al: Uhm, who are you…?
Lennox: We’re wizards of the Sage. We were entrusted by Luca to find and help a wizard named Al.
Hearing Luca’s name, the boy shuts his mouth tight and looks down.
Rutile: Might you be Al?
Al: …Yeah.
Lennox: Luca and Emily are worried about you. They figured you were panicking.
Al: !
Al raised his face, tears about to leak out. Lennox softens his gaze and continues speaking, voice more gentle than usual.
Lennox: Would you tell us what happened to you? It can be whenever you want, we’ll wait for you.
The young wizard turned his head down again, as if hiding his expression. With a small nod, he spoke, taking his time explaining.
Al: …I was travelling for a long time before staying here. I wasn’t planning on staying long,
and like always, I was going to be leaving soon.
Except…ever since I chased off that wolf from them, Luca and Emily have been really kind to me…
So I decided that before I go, I should congratulate them and say my thanks.
The wedding venue was the prettiest thing I've ever seen. And the townspeople were welcoming just like they said.
That’s when I began to feel weird. Like something awful began welling up in me, and my magic burst out.
I couldn’t stop the magic coming out of me, and before I knew it I was tearing the venue apart. I remember shouting at everyone to run with all my strength…
It was their, their precious wedding, and I…
He bites his lips.
My heart ached thinking of how Al must have felt being unable to stop the magic pouring out of his body, forced into watching the senseless destruction occur in front of him.
It was a kind and soothing voice that then spoke, comforting his weak heart.
Rutile: …Thank you Al, for telling us this. It’s just as Luca said, you didn’t mean to do any of that.
Lennox: Was there anything that could have caused this strange feeling?
Al: A cause…
Be it by instinct, his hand moved to cover a certain lump in the pocket of his clothes.
We could tell by his expression that he thought of something, but his mouth did not open.
Akira: (What’s wrong…? Is it something he can’t speak about…?)
Lennox: …I sensed a trace of something strange at the venue, the same one I’m sensing now.
Al, you might have been affected by the Great Calamity.
Al: What…? The Calamity as in, that one?
Seeing Al’s reaction just a second ago, Lennox must have figured something out, and began to probe further.
Lennox: It doesn’t have to be yourself directly. After its visit, the Great Calamity can afflict objects and even affect the owner to cause abnormalities to happen.
Al: Even objects…
Lennox: If you have any idea, please share it with us.
By the look on his face he was still anxious, but he took something out of his pocket.
Al: …Here.
What he pulled out was a compass with a metal case.
The glass was cracked, and the needle was unstable. I could not tell whether it was simply broken or under the influence of the Great Calamity.
Riquet: It feels…odd.
Lennox: …I believe this is the object that’s been affected by the Calamity.
Hearing that, Al gripped the compass tight and mustered his next words out in fear.
Al: Please, don’t break it…!
Rutile: It’s okay, we won’t do that. Is it important to you?
Al: …Yes. Really.
Seeing how he didn’t want to let go of the compass, Lennox patted his head.
< Index >
Chapter 4
Lennox: Don’t worry. I’m only going to purify it.
I don’t want any more harm to befall you, Luca, or Emily. So can you help me?
Al: …Okay.
Opening up to Lennox’s sincere words, Al handed over the compass.
Riquet: Do you need any assistance?
Lennox: No, this amount should be fine for me to handle.
Forsettao Meiuvat.
A pale and warm green light is summoned from Lennox’s spell, engulfing the compass like a blanket.
Akira: Ah…!
For a fraction of a moment, a black stain stinged on the compass, and quickly dispersed.
Rutile: You did it, Mr. Leno! I don’t feel that unsettling sensation anymore.
Lennox: Al, it should be okay now.
Al: R-Really? Thank goodness…!
Lennox lets out a sigh of relief after the successful purification, and I place my hand on my chest, feeling my heart calm.
Al takes back the compass, and rests it by his cheek, tracing with his finger the letters engraved within.
Akira: (I can’t read those letters,
but I bet they read something important to Al…)
After a moment, he placed the compass back into his pocket, and faces us again, preparing to speak once more.
Al: Uh…
I…I don’t know if those two, and everyone in town will forgive me, but…I want to apologize…
We quietly listened to his words, letting him take his time. Once he was finished, we answered.
Rutile: Yes, we’ll come with you. I’m positive that if we explain what happened everyone will forgive you.
Luca and Emily are only concerned for you too.
Al: I’m the one who wrecked the wedding that everyone worked so hard to prepare for though…I can’t just apologize…
Words won’t be enough to make up for it. That’s what the tremble in his voice and the tight grip on the hem of his shirt told me.
Even if his actions were not intentional, he still wanted to shoulder the heavy burden of what had been done with those small hands of his.
Al: There…there has to be something I can do to fix this…
Lennox: …I have an idea.
The townspeople are right now working to repair the venue and restart preparations for the wedding.
Could you help us with that?
Al: Uhm…is, is that alright? Having the wizard who wrecked it in the first place helping out…
Rutile: But you didn’t want to wreck the wedding, did you Al?
As long as you explain, I know everyone will welcome you again.
Lennox: Mm. I know firsthand how generous the people are.
Rutile: Besides, in this country storms and typhoons are common, so we’re used to having the things we just built topple over.
And if something’s broken, we can rebuild it again.
I think it will make Luca and Emily very happy if you help out, Al.
Agreeing with this plan Riquet and I both smile warmly at him.
Al: …Thank you.
I’ll say sorry, and ask them if I can help out…
He mustered the words through his fear, looking up instead of down.
Riquet: Then let’s head back to town.
Lennox: Al, you can ride on my broom. You’re probably still in no shape to be riding on your own.
Rutile: Master Sage, you can hop on mine! I’ll get you back in no time flat!
Akira: Sure. Thanks, Rutile.
Riquet: Master Sage, will you be alright riding with Rutile?
Akira: Ah.
It was too late. I was already on the broom. I had just remembered that Rutile’s “no time flat” is always word for word true.
Akira: Ru-Rutile!! I understand we should get back as soon as possible, but maybe we can enjoy the scenery today…?
Waaaaugh!
Al: T-That’s some speed…
Lennox: Don’t worry, that won’t be you.
Riquet: Master Sage, stay strong…
Flying through the air at a speed that would break laws back home, Rutile and I arrived sooner than the others to the venue.
Following our arrival, Mitile and the other wizards came to greet us.
Akira: The ground…finally…
Shylock: Are you alright there? Please, lean on my shoulder.
Mitile: If you’re flying at that speed it must be something urgent…
Rutile: Not at all! We found Al safe and sound, and wanted to catch you up to speed on what happened.
Though I…may have overdone it. Master Sage, please forgive me.
Akira: I-I’m okay! It’s been awhile since I’ve ridden with you…
In the middle of our conversation Lennox and the others arrive.
Seeing the boy appear from behind Lennox’s back, the couple dash over to him.
Luca & Emily: Al!
Al: Ah…
He sees their faces and lets out a small voice.
A little while ago he wouldn’t say a peep or hold eye contact with anyone, but to those two he firmly looked them in the eye and made up his mind.
Al: …F-For ruining your wedding, and scaring everyone away…I’m sorry.
Luca: You were scared too though, weren’t you Al? Coming back here was very courageous of you.
Emily: I’m so glad I get to see your face again, Al. I didn’t want that to be our goodbye!
The couple tenderly embraced the boy.
Warm hands began to melt the fears embedded within,
and Al’s face looked the most peaceful it had ever been, arms reaching out to return the hug…
Until, sorrow crept its way back in, and he refrained himself once more.
Lennox: …
Akira: He must still feel guilty…
Lennox: It might be more than that.
Akira: Huh?
Just as I was about to ask, I saw a group of townspeople walking over, and decided to prioritize clearing up the misunderstanding.
Lennox: Al’s magic outburst was due to the inevitable effect of the Great Calamity.
You have no need to worry however, as we have successfully purified the affliction. There won’t be anything like that again.
He didn’t mention that what the Calamity afflicted was not Al, but his compass.
Since it was a precious item to him, he must have taken his feelings into consideration.
In notice of that, Al began to tear up, watery eyes fixed on Lennox.
Lennox: Al, do you want to ask about the preparations yourself?
He patted his back gently, giving him the push he needed to talk to the townspeople.
Al: I’m sorry for ruining the wedding. Please, if there’s anything I can do to help with the wedding preparations, let me join you!
It’s my responsibility for wrecking what you worked so hard on.
I want those two to have a proper and wonderful wedding like they deserve!
Emily: Al…thank you!
Luca: We’re happy to hear it.
Townsperson: So young yet so strong. Alright, starting from tomorrow, it’s hustle time!
Youngster: With this many hands we’re gonna make it even better than before!
The passionate shouts of the townspeople fill the air. It was as Rutile and Lennox said, everyone here is generous and open-minded.
Al: Thank you so much…! I’ll do my utmost!
Lennox: We’re planning on helping out. What about you guys?
It’s going to be more days than what we originally came for, so I understand if you have to leave.
Shylock: Of course, you will have my help to the very end. If anything, It’s an honour to take part in the preparation of this lovely ceremony.
Nero: Welp, can’t just leave. I’m staying too.
Oz: Owen already left. I will be here during the day to help, but at night I will return to the manor.
Minus Owen who wasn’t here, Lennox bowed his head to everyone in gratitude.
Mitile: Hi Al, my name is Mitile, and I’m a Southern wizard. Let’s work hard together!
If there’s anything you want to try doing, just ask me!
Riquet: Mitile is very reliable, you can ask him anything.
Al: Okay, t-thanks…
Talking to kids his age for a spell, Al soon returned to Lennox’s side.
Lennox: What’s up?
Al: Erm…thank you for not telling everyone about my compass.
Even if you said there’s nothing to worry about, I’m sure there’s still people who are afraid…
Lennox: No sweat. I wouldn’t like it if others acted too cautious around something I treasured too.
Al: Y-Yeah…
He said, body tilting forward and falling into Lennox’s chest.
Lennox: Al…?
Al: Nn…
< Index >
Chapter 5
Akira: He’s asleep…he did have a long day today.
Carrying him in his arms, Luca ran up to us.
Luca: Oh, is he asleep? You can bring him to me and Emily's, he's staying there for now.
Lennox: That’ll do. I’ll carry him there.
As they moved, a mumble slipped from the sleeping Al’s mouth.
Al: …Lizzy.
Luca: Lizzy? Who could that be?
Lennox: I think I heard that name before when we first came to see Al.
Akira: Right, I do remember hearing him talk to someone, but in the end it was just him.
Luca: Talk to someone? I’ve never seen anybody else in that forest but him…
It seems that there is still a lot that Al hasn’t told us. Like Lennox was worried about, there was something other than the magic outburst that was bothering him.
The dark of night began etching itself in the sky, tiny stars sparkling into existence. Al’s faint breath told me he was right here by our sides, yet it felt like his heart was as far as the stars in the sky.
To help with the wedding, most members of our group decided to sleep over at the Flores Brothers’ house.
The brothers were very excited to have unusual guests at their home.
We planned on waking up early to help out, though there were concerns about us staying up late in the night having too much fun, which I found cute.
There was something else on my mind though, which was Lennox's absence, so I went outside to search for him.
Luca: I don’t think he wants to speak about it, so it doesn’t feel right to ask…
Lennox: He has been on his own for a long time. Neither of us knows what he could have gone through.
Akira: Lennox…?
Lennox: Master Sage.
Akira: Oh, you were talking with Luca. Sorry, didn't mean to interrupt.
Luca: Ah, it’s alright…we were actually talking about Al.
Lennox: Even after you left, Al kept on saying Lizzy’s name and crying in his sleep…
Akira: What…
Lennox: We don’t know what those two mean to each other, and why they’re not together right now…
But I’m certain that she’s someone important to Al.
Luca: I was discussing with Lennox if I could ask for your help in cheering Al up.
I know this is a lot I’m asking for, of you and of Al, but…
Akira: No, not at all. I understand how you feel, Luca. We’ll do everything we can.
Luca: Master Sage…thank you so much.
Oh, it’s already this late. Sorry for keeping you when you must be tired after today.
Goodnight, you two. May you rest well, and have sweet dreams.
Watching his back as he left for home, I continued talking to Lennox.
Akira: I’m concerned about Al…
Lennox: Same here. I’m grateful that the worst didn’t happen, and that he was able to return to those two safely.
Even though Lord Oz assured us that there was nothing dangerous, sensing the influence of the Calamity and seeing the state of the venue, I couldn’t stop my nerves.
Akira: Huh…
I was reminded of all the missions we had that didn’t end in the way we wished for it to.
Lennox stood from that venue of joy and gave everyone words of comfort, but on the inside he was considering even the worst possible outcomes.
That’s the kind of person he is. Always taking into account what the others may or may not be comfortable with, and dealing with the problem himself.
Akira: (That’s why his expression darkened earlier…)
Lennox, thank you. It’s a relief that you’re here, and that Al was safe…
Lennox: Yeah.
Akira: But we both know there’s something else that’s troubling him.
Lennox: And I believe those troubles concern his heart. The magic outburst was likely not the main factor in losing control over his broom.
It might have been the result created from whatever lies in Al’s heart and the effects of the Great Calamity reacting to each other.
We use magic with our hearts. It will be difficult to continue his journey now.
Akira: What journey is this for, anyway? He did say he wasn’t going to stay long…
He didn’t talk much about his travels.
From the look in his eyes, it wasn’t about discovery of the unknown. They were clouded in a fear of what’s to come.
Lennox: Al reminds me of my past self. Back when I was travelling the lands, only caring about putting one foot after the other.
Lennox once went on a long journey searching for Faust.
A journey of no destinations, ending in South. It’s this Lennox here that I trust has more experience on the matter.
Lennox: …This country is so peaceful, and time flows by so slowly here.
I felt my own heart heal spending time with the people of this town and those of the Rheita Mountains.
He says, hand brushed to his chest, reflecting on a self from a time gone by.
Lennox: Al’s goal and the path he treaded are different from mine.
That’s why I can’t say for sure it will work out the same way, but…
In the time we have here, even if it’s just a bit, I want for his heart to heal. And it’s my turn to be on the side that helps him.
Akira: In just a day I understand how loving and kind the people of this town are.
I’d like to learn from everyone, and spend my time here helping Al as well.
He looked at me with a tender smile. Seeing his expression, I thought of how nice it would be if Al could smile like this too.
The next morning. The birds sang, waking the people and signaling the day’s start. Everyone made their way to the venue.
Townsperson: If it isn’t the Sage and their wizards. Mornin’!
We told the to-be-wedded two to take a rest for the day, so let’s put our best leg in and get to working!
Rutile: Yeah! Oookay, I’m ready to begin!
Al: Why…
I turned to where the sound came from, and saw Al standing still in front of the stack of broken chairs.
Townsperson: He’s been around since dawn broke…though his magic doesn’t look to be doing too well.
Lennox: Still…
Townsperson: Kid won’t relax even a little. He’s so eager to help out, I don’t know how to tell him in a way that won’t dampen his spirits…
Hey, since you’re both wizards, what if you talked to him? It might be best if we left the magic matters to you fellas.
Lennox: Yeah, we can do that.
Al: One more try…!
Lennox: Al, don’t overdo it.
I understand that you want to make up for what happened, and the stress you’re under for not being able to use your magic.
But you’ll just exhaust yourself this way. Let’s take a break from using magic.
Al: Lennox…
Mitile: It’s okay, Al. I find it hard to use my magic whenever I’m tired too.
Then I just remember that if I take the time to rest up, I’ll be able to use magic like normal again!
And in this town, it’s important to make everything for a wedding ceremony with our own hands.
Of course we get requests to use magic once in a while, but let’s pace ourselves and do what we can, naturally!
Al nodded at Mitile’s words, yet he still looked over at the broken chairs in disappointment.
Oz: Vox Nox!
An Oz who at some point came from the manor and joined up with us said his spell.
A single chair bobbed up into the air, and as if time was reversing itself, was rebuilt anew.
Al: Wow…!
Townsperson: Oooh, neato…!
Hands that were cleaning debris stopped, and for a moment all eyes were fixed on the chair.
Oz: There are other wizards here than yourself. If there’s anything you cannot do, you must rely on others.
Akira: (Knowing Oz, fixing that chair was just another way of showing he cared.)
Riquet: Oz, did you not hear Mitile talk about how it is important to take your time and do things naturally? You weren’t listening at all, were you?
Oz: …
Akira: (‘Oh right’ is what his face looks like it’s saying…)
Mole’d Townsperson: Haaa, that was amazing! You’re one nifty wizard!
Tanned Townsperson: You really fixed that chair up in a second! Thank you kindly! Ahh, this brings me back to when Tiletta was still here.
If it were the Great Witch Tiletta, I reckon she would have been able to fix this entire stack of chairs in an instant!
Oz: …
Riquet: OZ.
Mole’d Townsperson: I’d love for a wizard to live with me…if I were in my younger years, I’d have proposed to you!
Oz: …I see.
A crowd forms around Oz, townspeople placing their arms around him or patting his shoulder in a familiar fashion.
Nero: They dunno who they’re being buddy-buddy with…just watchin’ gives me goosebumps.
Shylock: Oh, but in the time we spend in this town it’s you who might become bosom buddies with Oz in the end.
Nero: No way, dude. I do not have the balls for that.
Townsperson: Hey Mister Blue, heard you were a cook? Rutile says that any dish you make is the cream of the crop.
Could I hear your opinions on the food we’re serving at the wedding?
Nero: He’s definitely blown it out of proportion…well, if you’re fine with me.
Shylock: Already Mr. Popular.
Nero: You’re next, bud. Turn around, there’s a guy with a full cart of alcohol bottles coming your way.
Shylock: My. It’s not yet the hour when I’m truly active, but perhaps I can spare some effort like our morning birds here.
< Index >
Chapter 6
Townsperson A: Lennox, could you carry these logs for me?
Lennox: Sure, I’m coming.
Townsperson B: Rutile, I was thinking we should change the table colours, but which do you think is good?
Rutile: Which indeed! Let’s try a bunch out!
Everyone works alongside the townspeople in unison.
Mitile: Okay guys, we’re gonna use this coloured paper to make decorations for the wedding!
Mister Luca and Miss Emily said that they’d be happy to be surrounded by the things we like, so let’s first list what we like!
Riquet: What I like…
Well, you’re definitely one of them, Mitile! You’re my dearest friend after all.
Mitile: Ehehe…
Riquet: I also like Prince Arthur who’s always so kind, and Nero who prepares yummy meals for me, and Oz who gives me his candy.
Oh, and I like Cain too.
There are times where he messes up my hair by ruffling it, but I think it’s very gallant how he strives to protect everyone.
Akira: (I admit I laughed a bit when he treated Cain like an afterthought, but Riquet looks up to Cain in his own way too.)
Al: Oz and Nero are some of the wizards who came to help, right? Are Arthur and Cain also wizards of the Sage?
Riquet: Yes. They couldn’t make it, but I’ll introduce them to you someday.
Mitile: We should make paper faces of everyone at the manor!
Making faces can be a bit complicated though, so we should get used to crafting first. Let’s practice with something more simple.
What can we think of other than people?
Akira: Hmmm, cats are definitely my go-to. What do you like, Al?
Al: What do I like…uhm…
I, don’t know.
Mitile: Anything is fine. Like for me, I’ll probably make corn soup, or Mr. Leno’s sheep…
Al: …I think I did before, but now, I don’t really know…
The paper in his hands creased. He was having trouble thinking.
Riquet: Then Al, would you help us in making the things we like?
I actually used to not know the things I liked either, until I eventually learned them.
Maybe in making things others like, you’ll remember yours, or find something new to like!
Al: …Okay.
Town Children: Mitile! We wanna make some too!
Child A: Can you show me how to make that animal again?
Mitile: W-Woah, let’s make a line, shall we?
Giddy to see Mitile again after a long while, the children make a ring around him.
Riquet: Mitile, I can teach Al. I still remember a dozen of the things you taught me how to make.
Mitile: You sure? Thanks! Al, I’ll see you later!
Al: …Mitile’s really popular.
Riquet: Because he’s a wonderful and kind person. I’m sure you’ll come to love him too.
Oh, but we still don’t know how to make faces, so I can’t teach you how to make Mitile…
Al: …Ah.
Akira: What is it, Al?
He pointed to a tiny colourful flower growing by our feet.
Al: I want to make that.
Riquet: Nice idea! Okay, then let’s make paper flowers. Watch closely now.
First, you grab enough sheets of paper to layer them like this, and then fold them in a zigzagged pattern.
Then, when you fold the last sheet, you pin the middle like this.
Al: Zigzag, zigzag…then pin the middle…
Riquet: You’re doing good! Now, you just have to gently drag the points out.
If you told me this smiling Riquet teaching another how to make paper flowers was the same boy from his first days at the manor, I wouldn’t have believed you.
That boy who had so much to learn about the world came to know so many things, and seeing him impart that knowledge to others was a moment so precious to me.
Al: …! I did it!
Akira: Wow, it looks as pretty as the real thing!
Al: Riquet’s instructions, were very easy to understand.
Riquet: Hmhm. It’s usually Mitile who’s always teaching me, so being on the teacher’s side and experiencing something new with a friend makes me very happy.
Al: Friend…
His expression dimmed. It didn’t seem like he hated being called friends, though.
I noticed that whenever Al was given kind words and actions he would look guilty like he didn’t deserve to be receiving them.
Akira: (I wonder what’s going on…)
Lennox: Rutile, can I ask you something? I want to know what makes kids happy…
Rutile: Hm, well children are each very unique and have their own likes and dislikes, so it’s hard to come up with just a single thing.
Lennox: …Right, that makes sense.
Rutile: Is this about Al?
Lennox: Yes. I figured I should try something, anything to cheer him up.
Rutile: I’ve been thinking a lot about that too…
I guess for now, food is the answer. A delicious meal rejuvenates the body and the heart after all.
Oh, that reminds me! Nero and some other townspeople are cooking up lunch together, so let’s go ask them about the menu.
Nero: …
Oz: …
Townsperson: Wow sonny, not only are you good with your magic but you’re even a master at cutting shapes!
Nero: O-Oz, why not leave the veggie cutting to me? You can go do somethin’ else if ya’d like…
Oz: When it comes to the other work I do not know my limits well, and may overdo things. This kind of work is familiar and just right for me.
Nero: Oh, is uh, that so…
Rutile: Nerooo!
Lennox: Sorry to bother you. Do you have a minute?
Nero: Rutile, Lennox, thank the spirits you–I mean, yeah, what’s up?
Rutile: We wanted to ask about the lunch menu…
Nero: Hmmm, a meal that generally all children like…
Oz: Children like stew.
Rutile, Nero, & Lennox: Huh?
Nero: I get the feeling this is based on Arthur rather than children in general, but…I guess it works.
It’ll warm up the tum, and if we boil it for longer we can make it easier to eat for those who’re too tired to eat.
‘Sides, I was already plannin’ on making a soup dish, so we have chopped veggies at the ready too.
Lennox: Thank you. Your cooking is always delicious, so I’m sure Al will come to like it too.
Emily: Everyone! I heard you’re all working on lunch, so would you put these breads out too?
Rutile: Oh, look at all these adorable shapes! Are you going to bake them now?
Emily: Mmhmm. I couldn’t just sit at home while everyone and you wizards were working your hardest for our wedding!
And Al…I hoped I could put a smile on his face if the bread was in the shape of cute animals.
Lennox: We were hoping for the same thing.
Rutile: If it’s your fluffy baked bread Emily, he’ll want to eat it everyday!
Nero: And to top it off, there’s no better combination than bread and stew. The kids’ll be crazy for it.
Rutile: Since there’s a lot, how about Mr. Leno and I help you in baking?
Lennox: Yeah.
Emily: Really? Thanks, you two!
Nero: And you can leave the stew to us.
Mitile: You’re on fire Al! You made so much!
Child A: Wow, he did!!
Child B: It’s hard to make the flowers pretty, so you’re super good!
Riquet: His skill with his hands surprised even me.
Akira: You might be better than me at cat-making…!
Al: N-No way, that’s not true. I, I like the white cat you made, Master Sage. It’s cute.
Akira: Aw, thanks Al. I appreciate it.
With the sun shining down on us, the preparations for the wedding were steadily progressing,
and Al was warming up to Mitile, Riquet, and the other town children.
There were still things I was worried about, but seeing Al included in the group gave me a sense of relief.
Watching the kids get along, the smell of something good wafted in the air.
Child A: Do you smell that! It’s lunchtime!
Nero: Woaaah, and they’re already running. I’m bringin’ it to ya, so be good and wait over there.
Glasses Wearing Man: Nero, could I taste the stew first?
Nero: Oh, I’ve been wanting someone from this town to taste-test it, so yeah. Might be hot though, so be careful.
How is it? I tried flavouring it like regional dishes in South…
Glasses Wearing Man: …! D-Delicious! It’s so soft on the tongue and sure to be loved by people of any age!
Nero: Phew, that’s good.
Following the mouthwatering smell led to Nero and the others holding a large pot and plates of baked bread.
Town Children: Waaah! It’s stew!!
Nero: Haha, look at you rascals. There’s more than one pot, so eat a lot.
Town Children: Yaaay!
A familiar action, Nero fills plates with stew and hands them to the incoming townspeople one by one.
Nero: Here’s your portion. You uh, really helped out.
Oz: …It’s more salty than your usual stew.
Nero: M-My bad, do you not like it?
South’s food is strong on the flavouring, so I used some consomme…
Oz: No…I think Arthur would like this too.
Nero: Arthur would, huh? …I’ll make this again when we get back home.
Oz: …Thanks.
Shylock: Nero, pour me a plate?
Nero: Here ya go. Ugh, what’re you smilin’ at…
Shylock: A pair of bosom buddies, is all.
Nero: That’s…okay sure, fine. Still in shock though.
Emily: Everyone, make sure to take some bread! They’re freshly baked.
Akira: Thank you, Emily. Oooh, it smells so sweet…
Rutile: Look, there’s all sorts of shapes too!
Mitile: Wow! They’re so cute…I don’t know which to choose!
Riquet: I will have this bear shaped bun. It looks like Oz.
Mitile: Al, which one do you want?
Al: Uhm. I’m fine with choosing from the leftovers…just eating freshly baked bread is enough for me…
Lennox: Everyone’s picking a bun that they like for themselves, so you can pick a bun you like too, Al.
< Index >
Chapter 7
Al: …Okay.
Erm, which one, which one…huh? This bear looks kind of weird compared to Riquet’s.
Emily: Ah, that one was made by Luca. He’s clumsy with his hands, so its face turned out a little messed up.
Al: Luca did? …I’ll take this one. It’s cute.
Emily: Oh! Luca, come over here! Al chose your bun!
Luca: What!? Seriously? W-Wait a moment, I want to see him eat it!
Emily: Hehe, he’s probably so happy he could cry.
Lennox: He is easily moved to tears.
Al: I-It’s just a bun…
With reddened cheeks that told you he was embarrassed, he still looked down at the bread Luca made with delight.
The beautiful afternoon sunlight shines a light on the town children’s smiles as they enjoy their adorable baked buns and tasty stew.
Riquet: Ah, there’s so much inside this stew! I spot potatoes, carrots, and…what is this round yellow thing?
…Mmm! It melts inside your mouth!
Mitile: It’s a staple ingredient of South Country stew. Isn’t it so sweet and crumbly?
Al: It really does melt…so sweet!
His face brightened up, sipping his stew and dipping the bread in it. His eyes shone with joy.
Just looking at that smile filled me with happiness,
and I prayed that it would last, at least until this lunch was over.
But as luck would have it, he paused for a moment, erasing his lovely smile and slowing his eating.
It seemed as if he was purposely trying to stop himself from having fun.
Nero: Somethin’ you don’t like?
Al: No, not at all! It’s super tasty.
Nero: …You’ve probably experienced this, since you travelled on your own already, but you know how there are times where you’re so hungry you wanna eat somethin’, except you got nothing to munch on?
It’s ‘cuz of times like those you gotta eat when you can. It makes the chef pleased too to see a cleanly licked plate.
And when that happens, call me and I’ll give ya seconds. Capiche?
Al: Thank…thank you.
And like the way a young heart would shine after receiving kindness, clouds part and shine a light down on Al’s head, hair gleaming.
Adult or child, human or wizard–none of that mattered. This moment of everyone sitting together with Al warmed my heart.
A nice breeze blew and signaled the end of our lunch break, bodies bustling back to their stations.
Curly Haired Child: Hey hey Mister Lenny, I want to play that thing again! The one where we hang off your arms and you go nyooom!
Ribboned Child: Yeah! Me too!
Lennox: Did you finish all your food, even the vegetables?
Curly Haired Child: We wouldn’t leave something so yummy leftover!
Lennox: What good kids you all are. Then let’s make a line.
He raised his arms, and the children jumped up, clinging to his arms.
Lennox: We’re taking off.
Strong arms held aloft a number of children, dangling and swaying as Lennox ran around full energy.
Curly Haired Child: Weeee! Sooo fuuun!
Ribboned Child: So fast!!
Townsperson: Ahahaha, I figured it was about time the children got to playing.
They worked hard all morning, so they deserve to go roll around in the grass. We adults’ll keep up the grind!
The laughter of the adults echoed into the deep blue sky.
They never rushed themselves, easygoing and taking things slow while enjoying the process.
That was something I loved about these people.
Mitile: Mr. Leno, can I join in too?
Riquet: M-Me too!
Lennox: Of course. Come on over.
Al: …
Akira: Al, do you want to try it out?
Al: I’m…fine. The one who destroyed the venue shouldn’t be allowed to play…
He said as he watched the other kids play with envy, silently continuing the decoration making.
Akira: (He wants to join in for sure…)
That’s when I noticed Lennox wink over at Rutile, who was next to us.
Rutile: Hey Al, I want to try what Mr. Leno’s doing. Do you want to join me?
Al: Uh. S-Sure.
Rutile: I’ve been wanting to move around after that lunch, and that looks like the perfect after-meal exercise, don’t you think?
Despite my appearance, I’m pretty tough! So I bet I can swing you around just like him.
He spreads his arms out, and has Al climb on behind.
The corners of the boy’s mouth naturally curve up, eyes shimmering with expectations.
Rutile: Here we gooo!
With a mighty shout, Rutile charges with vigor, running around with Al on his back.
Al: W-Wow…awesome! It’s like I’m on a broom!
Rutile: Is it? Okiedokie, let’s add more speed to it!
Except, the opposite happened, and Rutile’s legs started to slow down before falling to the ground.
Al: Wah!
Rutile: Ouchie ouch…
Akira: Are you two okay?!
Rutile: Ahahaha, that didn’t go as I expected…sorry Al, are you hurt?
Al: Ha…
Haha, ahahaha! You were the complete opposite of Lennox, Rutile!
Akira: (Woah, is this the first time I’m seeing Al laugh his head off?)
Rutile: Hehe, I couldn’t go ‘nyooom’ as well as Mr. Leno did like in my head.
Lennox: That was a big crash, guys. No injuries?
Rutile: We’re fine. I was trying to imitate you, but failed big time instead.
Mitile: Oh brother! What were you thinking…
Riquet: At least they seemed to have fun, though.
Al: …Yeah, I can’t remember the last time I laughed like that…
…You have everything here.
Al was steadily opening himself up to others in the time he spent here.
But to us, the hardworking townspeople, and the playing children, he would still look on with a lonely expression.
That night–
As Lennox and I go to Luca’s to check in on Al, we’re approached by Riquet.
Riquet: Could I come with? I forgot to return the knife I borrowed from Al today.
Akira: Right, he did lend you that when you wanted to cut the papers smaller.
Lennox: Then let’s head out.
Taking Riquet with us, we met with Luca, and found unsettling news waiting for us.
Riquet: What? He went back into the forest?
Luca: Yes. I tried to stop him, telling him it’s too dangerous there at night, but he wouldn’t listen…
I think I said something I shouldn’t have…
Lennox: What was it?
Luca: I asked him that if he had no place to go, he could live with me and Emily.
And if he wasn’t comfortable, we could build a house for him in town instead…
He said his thanks for the offer, but I might’ve upset him…
Lennox: …I’m sure your feelings got through to him. He just needs time to think about it.
And I don’t think that’s his only reason for going back to the forest.
Luca: Huh…
Lennox: Sorry for visiting you so late. Goodnight, Luca.
…
…Let’s go check up on him. Riquet, are you coming?
I can tell it’s not the knife you were concerned about.
Riquet: Yes. Throughout the day whenever Al would seem to be having fun, he’d suddenly frown and go quiet. It’s been weighing on my mind.
Riquet was the one who spent the most time with Al today. That’s why he was able to pick up on Al’s change in mood.
The three of us moved to the forest where Al lived.
Lennox and Riquet both use their magic to light the way.
I don’t think I can ever get used to walking in the forest at night.
In the day we had rays of light peeking through the clouds, yet come night, darkness spreads out like a stain, showing us another side to the land we knew.
The only sounds accompanying us were our footsteps as they cracked leaves, and the rustle of birds feathers as they flew from trees.
Even at those simple noises my body would freeze up.
Akira: (How did Al feel spending nights like this alone in these woods…)
Repeating those thoughts in my head as we walked, we spotted the faint light of a lantern in the distance.
Soon after, the sight of Al crouching and holding his knees enters my vision, and I startle myself.
Riquet: Al…?
Al: Huh? Why are you guys here…
His eyes widened at our appearance.
Lennox: We’re sorry for coming without notice.
Riquet: Al, why did you leave Luca’s house?
Al: …
He doesn’t say anything. The light of the lantern only illuminated his tired features, emphasizing his sorrow.
Lennox: If you’re up for it, want to chat?
He nodded, shifting over to let us sit.
Lennox: How do you like the town?
Al: It’s like heaven. You have everything here. Kind people, yummy food, warm beds.
They gave me a home and treated a wizard like me who only caused them trouble, with kindness…
That’s what makes it hurt…
Riquet: Why…?
Al: They’re all things I don’t deserve to have.
They’re all things I wanted to have with Lizzy.
For the first time, we finally hear that name from Al’s mouth because he wanted us to hear it.
< Index >