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May. 18th, 2024
Chapter 1
Akira: Wow…! The colours mix together so nicely!
Inside the slim and elegant glass was a sunset gradient liquid.
This evening, I was invited by Shylock to his bar to sample a new non-alcoholic drink.
Shylock: Hmhm, your eyes are shining, you know. It fills me with happiness to see you this excited before you’ve even sipped it.
Please, have a taste. I made this cocktail thinking about the warm evening the other day. I title it, “A Summer Night’s Suspicion”.
Akira: Now that’s a fun name…! Okay, down the hatch…
Thinking about the orange skies that told you about the fun things summer still has in store for you, I brought the glass up to my lips when…
Riquet: Please don’t make that face, Mitile. How about I treat you with a delicious drink?
Mitile: No, I’m…
Akira: Was that Riquet in the hallway…? I think there’s Mitile too.
Shylock: It seems so. And talking about something interesting too…
Riquet: Excuse me, Shylock. Ah, Master Sage. You’re here too.
Mitile: …Hi, Master Sage, Mister Shylock.
Upon seeing us, Riquet promptly gave his greetings as usual.
Beside him however, was the Mitile who’d usually just as quickly say his greetings, instead saying them in a gloomy tone without any of his regular pep.
Akira: (Mitile doesn’t seem to be in a happy mood…I wonder what’s wrong?)
Riquet: Shylock. Can I ask you to make something for Mitile to drink? It will be my treat.
Perhaps imitating Cain or Nero, Riquet spoke in the same manner as an adult and leaned over the counter, with Mitile slightly tugging on the hem of his shirt.
Mitile: I said it’s fine, Riquet…weren’t you happy about how big your savings from all our missions have gotten?
Riquet: I am, but I don’t mind. It’s to treat my dear friend after all.
Mitile: But…
Shylock warmly smiled at the pair’s chatter.
Shylock: How about you two sample my new non-alcoholic cocktail as well? The one that Master Sage has.
Riquet: Wow, it’s so pretty like the sunset sky! Yes, I’d love to. How much will it be?
Shylock: It’s a sample item, so there will be no payment needed. I thought it’d be something that Mitile would like, so I was hoping for some opinions.
Riquet: Really? If that’s the case, then I will oblige. Thank you, Shylock.
Mitile, he said it’d be something you’d like! Are you excited? It’s good we came to the bar!
Mitile: …Yeah.
Normally it’d be a “Yeah!” with a happy little nod, but that frown still wouldn’t turn upside down. Unable to resist, I quietly ask Mitile what’s wrong.
Akira: Uhm…Mitile, is everything all right? You don’t have to answer if you don’t want to, of course.
His eyebrows lowered, making a concerned face as he sat in the stool next to mine.
Mitile: The thing is…Dr. Figaro is away right now, so Riquet and I were practicing our magic together.
We were training our control over magic, so we shot pebbles at a target. And I…just couldn’t do it at all…
Riquet: That’s not true. At least once you managed to land a hit directly in the middle!
Mitile: Yeah, but it was only once. The other times I didn’t even graze the target, or threw the pebble out the window…
…while you could hit the centre every single time…
Akira: (I get it now. He’s upset about his magic practice.)
Mitile is a wizard with a lot of ambition. He makes an effort in his training and classes everyday because he wants to become a strong and competent wizard.
He’s usually watched over by the other Southern wizards, who are good at cheering on others, and saying “This time for sure!” whenever it doesn’t go well, but…
During his practice sessions with Riquet who’s close in age to him, that ambition of his sometimes turns into impatience.
Akira: (Everybody learns at their own pace…but it’s hard not to compare yourself to a friend who’s near your age…)
Mitile: I wonder if…I’m gonna be weak like this forever…
He anxiously clenches his own fists. Gently, Shylock placed the sunset coloured drink in front of him.
Shylock: Here, Mitile. My new non-alcoholic cocktail, “A Summer Night’s Suspicion”.
It’s a drink made with the anticipation for nightfall, like we are feeling right now.
I hope you can enjoy it while thinking about the warm summer nights that will soon join us this evening.
Mitile: …Woah, it’s so pretty…it’s as red as a midsummer sunset. Thank you, Mister Shylock.
Shylock: And yours, Riquet.
He places another one in front of Riquet. We all raise our glasses slightly, and take our drinks.
Akira: …Mm, yummy!
Riquet: There’s popping in my mouth! Hehehe, it’s like I drank a firework.
Mitile: It’s sweet and refreshing, and a little sour too! I like this flavour, Mister Shylock!
Shylock: It pleases me to hear that. In place of snacks, have these spiced cookies as service.
Mitile & Riquet: Yippee!
Riquet: Mitile, have you cheered up?
Mitile: I have! Thanks for bringing me here, Riquet.
He finally smiled. He might not be back at 100% yet, but that smile of his easens my heart.
His expression as he happily nibbles at a buttery shaped cookie tells me he’s feeling better.
Mitile: Uhm, Master Sage? What did you do when you were having trouble like me?
Akira: Me?
Mitile: Yes. You went to school before back in your home world, right? If you ever got stuck on like, your studies, what did you do?
If you don’t have that experience, then what about those tips I often hear you have in your world…if you have any good advice, please share them with me.
Mitile’s eyes were full of motivation. They were flaring up with a fighting spirit, saying to me “I can do anything if it’s to become stronger!”.
Akira: (He’s such a good and earnest kid. It’d probably be best though to give him a relaxing piece of advice.)
(All nighters are…no, I don’t think that’s a good fit for him. Something more healthy…)
Racking my head for a good idea, my eyes happened to land on the cocktail in my hands. In particular its nostalgia inducing, beautiful sunset colours.
Akira: I know…what about a ‘summer vacation’? In my world, we had summer schools or summer camp…
Mitile: Summer-school?
Riquet: Summer-camp?
Akira: Ah…well, summer school is where you study for a set period over summer, and summer camp is more like a huge sleepover or training camp.
Why don’t we combine the two and go somewhere different with everyone for a few days to focus on studying?
Mitile: Go somewhere different, to focus on studying…so like if we stayed at Borda Island just to study?
Akira: Just to study! But rather than a lively resort place like that, it’s more common to stay together in a place surrounded by nature.
Riquet: So it’s a combination of camping and classes! That sounds fun!
Their eyes sparkled. Shylock watched over them from behind the counter with a loving smile on his face.
Shylock: Then why don’t we do just that?
Mitile, Riquet, & Akira: Huh?
Shylock: In a remote place in Western Country is a vacation home I am currently borrowing from another wizard friend called “Home of the Young Hearts”.
It’s a quaint little cottage built atop a lake. I haven’t been there for years now, and had been planning on visiting it soon.
Let’s make use of the opportunity. We can invite the teachers from all countries, and have ourselves a sleepover-study meet. How about it?
The kids looked at each other. After a millisecond, red flushed their cheeks, and they stood up from their seats.
Mitile: R-Really?! That sounds perfect!
Riquet: If you’re okay with it, then yes let’s do it!
Shylock: Hmhm. Then it’s decided.
Mitile & Riquet: Yaaay…!
They held their hands together and jumped on the spot.
Mitile: Studying in a quaint little cottage on top of a lake! I bet I can totally focus there, don’tcha think?
Riquet: Yes! There’s sure to be tons of fish I don’t know, so I’ll make sure to bring my fish encyclopedia!
Shylock: Master Sage, will you be participating as well?
Like the “Young Hearts” in its name, the lake is home to many young fairies. During our stay, you may be able to see some.
Akira: I can see fairies…?! If you’re alright with it, please have me!
Mitile: Then we should hurry and inform the teachers! I’ll go talk to Dr. Figaro!
Riquet: You can leave Oz to me! Shylock, when will we be going?
Shylock: For the dates, please let me reconfirm something with Lords Snow and White first.
I will also invite them at that time. As for Faust, I will tell him when I see him.
Mitile: Understood! Thank you, Mister Shylock!
Shylock: Oh, and be sure to invite those whose schedules are open too. It is not that little of a cottage after all.
Riquet & Akira: Yes!
Index >
Chapter 2
The next morning arrived.
Mitile: Ah, he’s back! Dr. Figaro!
Akira: Welcome back, Figaro. Thanks for taking on the overnight mission.
So how was the family…they couldn’t eat anything but apple pies since the day the Calamity visited, right? You said it might be the early symptoms of a infectious disease…
Figaro: Yep, they’re all better now. There’s something I’m still curious about though, so I’m gonna go back once I’ve looked into it.
How are you guys? Mitile, you look excited about something.
Mitile: Ehehe…I’ve actually come to invite you to a sleepover-study meet at Mister Shylock’s cottage!
Figaro: A sleepover-study meet?
His mouth formed a smile at Mitile’s hurried explanation.
Figaro: You’re a hard worker, Mitile, for wanting to study at a sleepover. You do this teacher proud.
Mitile: So will you come too, Dr. Figaro?
Figaro: Of course. Let’s pack our stuff up together later, okay?
Mitile: Yay!
He smiled like he could jump in joy. Figaro kindly watched over him, and then asked,
Figaro: By the way, when will it take place? So I know to keep my schedule free.
Akira: Oh, about that. Shylock and the twins decided for it to be…
When I told him the dates of the trip, his face clouded over. Troubled, he rubbed the back of his neck with his hand.
Figaro: That’s a problem…it completely overlaps…
Mitile: Dr. Figaro? Do you have plans already…?
Figaro: Yep. The days you guys are planning to go line up with the days I’m checking up on that family.
That illness they caught should have gone extinct a long time ago. My guess is that it came back due to the Calamity’s influence. If I’m correct, then I need to investigate the area carefully.
I would ask another teacher to handle it, but I’m afraid I’m the only doctor as well…
Mitile drooped his head. After a second however, he turned his head up, not giving up.
Mitile: T-Then maybe we can change the dates on our side! I’ll go ask Mister Shylock!
Figaro: I appreciate that, Mitile. But that cottage you’re talking about is probably at the Lake of Young Hearts…and if it’s the days that the twins decided on…
He put his hand to his chin and went deep into thought. Thinking for a few moments, he then shook his head in disappointment.
Figaro: I’ll try and talk to them, but…this outing may be a little difficult for me to join in on.
And if we change the dates now, the other teachers might not be able to go anymore.
If that happens, you’ll have less opportunities to take different kinds of classes, Mitile.
Mitile: …I understand…uugh, but I really wanted to go with you.
Disheartened, his shoulders dropped.
Figaro put on a smile as he softly patted that chestnut coloured head, trying to comfort the kid.
Figaro: I’m sorry, Mitile. In my place, how about I assign you some extra special homework?
And if the investigation goes well, I can probably drop in on the last day. I’ll be sure to race there as soon as I finish it.
Snow: We’re going on a trip, we’re going on a trip! A trip to the little cottage of “Young Hearts”!
White: Ohohoho. A vacation at a lake will be most fun indeed. Ozzy, what games will we be playing there?
Oz: …I thought we were going to be learning.
Faust: The kids may play as they please, but our role is as both teachers and supervision.
Shylock: That’s true, but sticking to it the entire time will feel constraining. We teachers and students should all enjoy this vacation.
The morning of our departure. The lounge was crowded with the members of the cottage trip.
And among us was our prince who was always busy with official duties and missions, Arthur.
Akira: I’m surprised you’re able to come, Arthur. Is the work at the castle gonna be okay?
Arthur: Yes, fortunately. I won’t be having any work to do for a long while.
Mitile: When Riquet and I went to invite him, his break happened to fit exactly with the days we were going out!
Riquet: You have been blessed with a break for your hard work in caring for the people, Prince Arthur. I’m so happy you can come with us!
Arthur: Yeah, me too!
Except…it’s a shame that Lord Figaro is unable to attend. Though I’m sure you’re the one feeling the most down about it, Mitile…
Faust: There’s no healing in a day after all. Solving an anomaly is one thing, but investigating an illness is no amateur's job.
Shylock: The other wizards also took on our business so that we teachers could go out on these days…this was the best we could do.
Mitile: Yes…
But he said that he’d do his best to come on the last day! Rutile, Mr. Leno, and Cain said they’d help him out so he could make it.
And, he even gave out special homework to fill in for his classes! Look at this!
What Mitile passed to both Arthur and Riquet were colourful pots for plants. In the damp soil there was nothing planted yet.
Riquet: Is this…homework where we have to grow a seed we found over there?
Arthur: No…I can sense magic from the soil. Are these magic seeds?
Mitile: Right on! These are magic seeds that bloom into a different flower depending on the state of a person’s heart when they cast their spell on it.
During our vacation, our homework is to cast our spells when we think the time is right, and grow our own pretty flowers!
Faust: A “Heartcast Flower” is what they’re called. They’re a rare flower that grows only in hot climates or where the power of spirits is most concentrated.
Mitile: Woah, they’re that rare? Dr. Figaro didn’t mention a thing…
White: Ohohoho. He must’ve splurged since he couldn’t come with you. That’s the heart of a teacher.
Snow: We look forward to what sort of flower will bloom from you three.
Arthur & Riquet: Yes!
Mitile: I’ll do my best to grow the greatest flower ever!
Shylock: Now everyone, I too have something from Chloe to give all of you.
It is a surprise that will make our vacation a step more enjoyable.
He let out a puff of smoke from his pipe. A fresh summer smell wafted throughout the room, and our clothes changed.
They were outfits fitting for a lakeside vacation, bright and breezy.
Mitile: Wah, these are so stylish…! Does it suit me?
Riquet: Of course, since it’s Chloe’s work! My shoes feel so airy. I bet we would dry up very quickly if we got wet.
Oz: …
Arthur: Those clothes look wonderful on you, Lord Oz! It’s not everyday I get to see you in casual clothes and going on vacation.
Oz: …I suppose so. Your clothes suit you too.
Akira: They feel comfortable to wear. We’re gonna have a good time at this study meet!
Shylock: I feel the same. He couldn’t come since the big Cloth Fair was on these days, so I hope you can save up a lot of stories to tell him when we get back.
Snow: We’re all set and ready to go! Shall we head off?
White: Indeed we shall. Oh Oz, please take us to the Western Country!
Oz: …Vox Nox.
As soon as he said his spell, we were surrounded by beautiful nature.
A shallow lake bordered by a forest. Transparent turquoise waters that sparkled and reflected the sun’s light.
Mitile: Wooow! It’s so pretty…!
Riquet: We’re standing in the middle of a lake! The water’s so cool and refreshing!
Akira: There’s fish swimming between our legs! It’s like we’re at a resort in Okinawa…
Arthur: It’s an area that hasn’t been touched by urban development yet. A place as beautiful and peaceful as this would surely have become a popular vacation spot by now…
Shylock: The surrounding terrain is steep and rugged, so humans rarely ever come here. Thanks to that, we can put our feet up and relax.
Oz: Is that where we will be staying?
Following his gaze we spotted cottages of untainted white walls and round blue roofs, along with an elevated floor.
The deck the cottage stood on had a staircase that led right into the water, making for an entrance directly from the lake.
Shylock: Yes. That building there is the “Home of the Young Hearts” we had mentioned.
The water here is very shallow, so walking to the cottage is the same as walking on land.
Arthur: That sounds fun. Riquet, Mitile, let’s race to see who can get there fastest!
Riquet: Okay! I’ve never ran in water before, but I’ll do my best!
Mitile: Okiedokie, on our marks…get set…go!
Faust: The sand is slippery. You might fall…and they can’t hear me anymore.
White: Ohohoho. They’ve gone with the wind. How lively, how lively.
We smiled at their backs as they already reached the stairs. Panting hard, Mitile looked over to us and gave a big wave.
Mitile: Master Sage! Teachers! You come over too!
< Index >
Chapter 3
We opened the door to a bright living room where the sunlight easily poured into.
From the walls and ceiling to the window frames were vibrant colours and designs drawn, and examining all of them made my heart beat faster.
Mitile: What a cute home…! I can’t believe we’re gonna be staying here!
Arthur: The sunlight is so warm! Let’s open the window and let the breeze flow in. It’ll be more refreshing that way!
Riquet: I think we can make great progress in our studies here…achoo!
Mnn…it’s a bit dusty though. I don’t think Bradley could stay here long.
Shylock: Oh dear, I must apologize. I only remind myself to put up a new protective barrier and clean the place whenever I visit, per my friend’s request.
Faust: And the last time you visited?
Shylock: Well the last time I came here was to drink some luminescent alcohol I had obtained…so that was about, hmm, thirty or so years ago.
Akira: Thirty years?! You wizards really are in no rush…
Snow: It appears our first order of business is to clean the rooms.
White: Today it was going to be Oz’s turn to teach, so why don’t you make your class on cleaning.
To wizards, cleanliness is essential. Just one chip of your fingernail can make for a catalyst in a nasty curse against you.
Faust: You do have a point, but shouldn’t Oz have plans for his class already? We should be prioritizing that.
Oz: …I have no plans.
Faust & Mitile: Eh?
Mitile: B-But, Riquet said he invited you the day we decided the dates for the study meet…
As Mitile stood there confused, Riquet let out a sigh of disappointment.
Riquet: Goodness me Oz, you must’ve spent those days stuck on what to teach and couldn’t decide until it was class time again, didn’t you.
Arthur: How hard of a decision it is to him proves how much he cares for our learning. Thank you, Lord Oz.
Akira: (These two seem used to this…it must happen a lot during the Central wizard’s classes…)
Arthur: Well then, Lord Oz. If you’re okay with it, why don’t we accept their proposal and conduct today’s class on cleaning?
You have already taught me lots on cleaning when I was a child…so I’ll be taking this as a chance to review!
Mitile: I want to learn about cleaning too! I often forget to do it, so…
Riquet: Cleaning it is then. Teach us your wisdom Oz.
Oz: Alright.
Vox Nox.
Akira: Eh, already…woah!
With a burst of a breeze, the air in the room instantly became clearer.
I could breathe in without the smell of dust up my nose. The flooring and the furniture texture was smooth and glinted as if it was freshly polished.
Arthur: Fast as usual!
Riquet: Hoo, haa…I’ve stopped sneezing! Now Bradley can safely stay here too.
Mitile: That was amazing, Lord Oz! So, will you teach us how…
Oz: You do it the way I did. Now try and do the same for the other rooms.
Mitile: Uhm?
Arthur & Riquet: Yes!
Riquet: Mitile, Prince Arthur, let’s do our best together!
Mitile: W-Wait a second, is that all for the explanation?
I know you guys are a watch and learn kind of classroom, but are there any pointers like what kind of feeling to cast this spell with or…
Oz: …It is difficult to express this feeling in words.
All I can tell you is to do it like that.
Mitile: Like…that…?
He knit his brows like he reached the difficult question on the test. Quickly trying to brainstorm the answer, his bright eyes scanned the room.
Akira: (Figaro prefers detailed explanations, so Oz’s teaching style is very different to what he’s used to…)
With a pat on his shoulder, Arthur woke the rigid Mitile.
Sympathizing with his confusion, he gave a kind smile.
Arthur: Lord Oz’s classes are very trial-and-error orientated. First, we try it on our own to get a feel for it, and when it doesn’t go well, we simply ask for advice.
I know it must be unnerving being so different from Lord Figaro’s classes, but how about you try it together with me and Riquet first!
Riquet: We’re used to his style of teaching, so please don’t worry. We’ll be here for you if there’s anything you don’t understand.
Mitile: Ah…thanks, you guys. I’ll try my hardest!
White: Don’t forget you have us teachers here. Feel free to rely on us as you please.
Snow: In place of the boring Oz, we’ll be sure to give you easy to understand advice!
Oz: …
Shylock: I entrust the cleaning to you then. And will you gentlemen help me with restoring the barrier?
Faust: Got it. What about the lake or forest? Do we need to put up any anti-human or anti-beast barriers?
Shylock: Yes, I was thinking of some sort of smoke-screen like barrier. We’re here on vacation after all, so it wouldn’t do to have any disturbances.
Snow: Then in addition, let us put up a cloud in the shape of a stethoscope. That way it will be a symbol for Figaro to know where to go.
White: You can stay here and observe the students as they clean, O Sage. Be sure to keep an eye on the kids for us, Oz.
Oz: Of course I will.
Arthur: Great! Alrighty, it’s time to start cleaning, guys!
Mitile & Riquet: We’re gonna make it squeaky clean, yeaaah!
Mitile: O…Ortonik Sealsispilce!
All right! I did it…
Ahh! There’s still dust on top of the shelf…ugh, so it’s a fail…
Arthur: You didn’t fail. Look, the window’s much cleaner than it was before.
Riquet: How about we work together, Mitile. If we do it like Lords Snow and White and say our spells at the same time, it might be stronger.
Ready…Sanretea Edif.
Mitile: Ortonik Sealsispilce!
…We did it!!
Arthur: Yeah, not a speck of dust left! Mitile, Riquet, good jobs you two!
Oz: You did well.
Mitile & Riquet: Yay…!
Thanks to the support of Arthur and Riquet, Mitile went from feeling out of place to becoming a little more used to the Central wizard’s way of learning.
Mitile: I’m sorry Riquet, you had to help me out again.
Riquet: Don’t apologize for that. I’m just happy to be taking classes with you!
To his dejected friend he gave a shake of his head and wore a cheerful smile.
Though it was supposed to be class time, that expression was so joyful that you’d think they were in the middle of playing.
Riquet: I wish it was always like this. Won’t you become a Central wizard, Mitile?
Mitile: Uhhhm, I don’t think I can…I love the Southern wizards after all.
Riquet: But because we’re from different countries, our classes are separated. It makes me sad to think about how the only time we get to be in the same class together is at this study meet.
Mitile: Hmm, I think if we ask the teachers about it, they might hold a joint class session for us.
And as for the study meet, if all our schedules work out again, we can have another one!
Riquet: …Another one…
Like he heard something unthought of, the Riquet who was just smiling to the brim a minute ago slightly widened his eyes.
At that moment, a wizard on a broom stopped by the window we left open.
It was Shylock.
Shylock: Pardon me for intruding in on your class, Lord Oz, but could we ask for your help in putting up the lake barrier?
Oz: Did something happen?
Shylock: I wanted to put up the usual barrier, but we have that special event to think about…ah, if you could lend me your ear, please.
Oz leaned over the windowsill a bit for Shylock to move his broom close and come up to his ear. From then on I couldn’t hear what they were saying.
Akira: (Special event…?)
Oz: …Understood. I will head there now.
Shylock: Thank you for your help. Everyone, I’m sorry for the interruption. I’ll be sure to make up for it.
Oz: You can move onto the next room.
Arthur: We got it! See you later, Lord Oz.
Oz gave a slight nod to Arthur before he turned to Shylock like he was about to follow after him, and vanished.
In place of Oz, Arthur was the one in charge.
Arthur: The next room is…that one down the hall! Let’s go!
Mitile: Wow, this one’s big…!
Beyond the door was a room with four beds.
Akira: The other bedrooms only had one or two beds, but this big one’s for four! This really does feel like summer camp…!
Mitile: It’s like an inn! These kinds of rooms always get me super pumped.
Chapter 4
Arthur: I love them too! It’s always more fun to sleep in big groups!
Riquet: It so is! Master Sage, are these kinds of rooms often used in summer camps?
Akira: They are. They make it feel like you’re at a sleepover, and I’d chat with my friends all night lying in our beds.
Riquet: Really now…
His eyes sparkled. Having come up with a great idea, he then looked at us, head bobbing as he began to speak.
Riquet: …Then how about we four use this room? To have our own slumber party!
Arthur, Mitile, & Akira: Oooh…!
We were all thrilled to hear it. Arthur gave a large nod.
Arthur: That’s a wonderful idea Riquet! Let’s ask Shylock if we can use this room when he comes back.
Mitile: Yeah! I also brought these sheep styled dehumidifiers. We can put them by the window once we get his permission!
Riquet: What’s that?
Mitile: Ta-da! It’s this thing! Once I told him about how we’re staying in a cottage above a lake, Mr. Leno went and made these for us!
When you’re near a water source, it’s always good to leave something made from sheep’s wool to take in the humidity. That’s what Mr. Leno taught me before when we went camping.
Riquet: Wow…! It’s a sheep that’s cute and useful!
Mitile: Yep! Ah…but there’s been barriers and magic put up to make things comfortable for us, so I guess we don’t need them…
Arthur: Not at all. Just looking at them makes me happy.
Akira: Exactly! We should leave them on the windowsill anyway. Thank you for bringing them, Mitile.
Shylock: I’m back, everyone. My, we seem to be having fun.
I turned around to the voice behind me and saw the teachers waiting by the door. They were about to enter the room.
Akira: Everyone, you’re back…!
Mitile: Welcome back! Did the barrier go well?
Faust: Yeah. Sorry for taking Oz from you.
Snow: We took a look at the rooms you’ve cleaned so far, and they’re all squeaky clean.
White: You children are excellent students. We shall give you plenty of rewards later on.
Riquet: Ehehe…oh, right. Shylock, we were discussing it together and, can we use this room?
Shylock: Of course you may. This room was meant for a group of friends who enjoy chatting and sleeping together, which I believe matches you four perfectly.
Mitile & Riquet: Woohoo!
Arthur: Thank you, Shylock!
Snow: What shall we do, my fellow teachers? Perhaps we could use magic to expand a room and have ourselves a slumber party there?
Faust: I refuse.
Oz: I refuse.
Shylock: I’m afraid I must refuse as well, since I feel like sleeping on my own. I will bring your painting to a room for two though.
Snow & White: Booo.
Faust: So it’s decided then.
I have packed lunches from Nero. I’ll set up the living room, so when you kids finish your cleaning we can start eating.
Mitile & Riquet: Okaaay!
Filling ourselves up on a cool soup and some sandwiches for our lunch, we then had our freetime.
While I lazed about in the cottage with the teachers, the younger wizards immediately went out to explore the lake.
Arthur and Riquet returned before sunset, but Mitile was at the lake practicing his cleaning magic up until dinner time.
And as our compensation for taking Oz earlier, we were treated to Shylock’s homemade dinner. After that we took our baths, brushed our teeth, and…
Riquet: Heehee. Sleeping next to you guys is gonna be so much fun.
Arthur: Yeah, we’re gonna talk until morning! Ah, but before that…
He said his spell, and the small flower pot appeared in his hands.
Arthur: I think I’ll do the homework from Lord Figaro.
Mitile, Riquet, & Akira: Whaaat?!
Mitile: I know we’re supposed to grow our bestest flowers…but it’s only the first day and you’re gonna do it now?!
Arthur: That’s why I’ll do it now! Today I had a real blast learning and hanging out together with you guys.
Days like these will continue on to tomorrow, and the day after…with those beliefs, I know I can grow the greatest flower ever.
He showed his beaming smile. Earnestly talking about his feelings with those captivating eyes of his, we all couldn’t help but smile too.
Akira: I get it…I was surprised at first, but I like your way of thinking.
Arthur: Thank you! Okay then, now…
Pernoctant Nixzo!
The soil glowed with light when he cast his spell. A bud emerged with a jump, and within blinks grew taller and taller.
Mitile: Wow…! A tiny rainbow flower bloomed…!
Riquet: Hehe, it’s like your feelings of excitement came through!
Eventually, other small flowers came to grow. Yellow, red, blue, purple, various colours of buds sprouted and bloomed to brilliant flowers.
Akira: It’s a whole fountain of flowers…these flowers don’t look like anything I’ve ever seen before, but they remind me of you, Arthur.
Arthur: Thank you, Master Sage. I can’t wait to show Lord Figaro!
A satisfied look on his face, Arthur placed the flower pot on the windowsill. The silver light from the stars shined down on it.
It felt like the ever expanding night skies were welcoming this flower pot filled with dreams for the future.
Riquet: They’re so pretty…I wonder if my 'moment' I think is right will come?
Arthur: It will! I know you’ll be able to grow a wonderful flower of your own, Riquet.
Riquet: Hehehe…
Arthur: And that goes for you too, Mitile.
Mitile stared at the floor when that warm smile turned to him.
Mitile: …I don’t know…blooming a pretty flower like that must be hard.
Riquet: Are you nervous? Even though we had a wonderful day today?
Mitile: I had a lot of fun playing with you guys today! But during class all I did was receive help…
I don’t think I’ll be able to grow a good flower if this keeps up…
…Even though I had a chance to be taught by the world’s greatest wizard today, I…
Arthur: …Mitile.
He leaned towards him, meeting eyes with Mitile sitting on his bed.
His hand gently cupped itself over those smaller and tightly wrapped hands.
Arthur: Lord Oz is certainly the world’s greatest wizard.
Yet when I first learned under him, it wasn’t like I understood everything and could perform it well right off the bat.
Mitile: Really?
Arthur: Of course. Eventually I was able to keep up after some practice. So Mitile, I know you’ll be fine.
And you did a great job today in class! Even Lords Snow and White praised you.
He tenderly smiled, like the sun rays of the early summer mornings. Arthur warmly wrapped both his hands around the fists that began to loosen.
Arthur: Besides, isn’t joining hands and working together the way of the Southern wizards? Mitile, I think you should continue learning the way you do.
…Tomorrow will be Faust’s class. The Eastern classes are similar to the Southern classes, with classroom learning and tests.
Riquet and I are not used to that kind of format. So tomorrow, we’ll be relying on you, Mitile.
Mitile: …Okay…
His expression brightened up, but was still a bit cloudy.
Mitile has a strong admiration for strength. Even though he knows in his head that Arthur is right, it will still take some time for his feelings to agree with that truth.
Thanks to Arthur though, he has cheered up. He thumps his chest and clears his throat, signalling a change in the mood.
Mitile: Tomorrow, I’ll do my best to help you two out. If you’re having trouble, come to me!
Okay, now let’s chat till we fall asleep. What do we wanna talk about? Riquet, any suggestions?
Riquet: I want to hear your stories, Mitile! Can you talk about the school you went to in your hometown?
Arthur: Oh, nice! I want to hear about teacher Rutile as well.
Akira: I’ve been curious too! Mitile, you ready?
Mitile: I am! Okiedokie, let me tell you about the time a nearby bison got lost and entered my brother's class as he was teaching.
Arthur, Riquet, & Akira: Yeah!
The next morning. After we ate breakfast with everyone, I sat in the corner of the living room watching over Mitile and the others.
Today was Faust’s day to teach. Before noon he wanted them to have a classroom session here.
Faust stood at a wall where the sunlight didn’t hit, and with his finger traced four corners on the wall.
Suddenly, a blackboard became visible. With this classroom setting, he turned to the younger wizards, looking over their faces.
Faust: Alright, let’s start class. Are you guys ready?
Arthur, Riquet, & Mitile: Yes! We’re ready to learn!
Faust: …
Akira: …Faust? You okay?
Faust: …I’m fine. It’s just that though my students try their best…
I’ve never seen everybody so ambitious to learn during class time. It’s a new feeling.
…This certain pressure is too.
He said as he glanced to the back of the classroom, where on a couch against the wall the other teachers sat.
White: He’s feeling pressured, Shylocky.
Shylock: He’s feeling pressured, Oz.
Oz: …
Snow: Wow, you passed on the joke to Oz just like that. For a moment I got the chills.
Akira: (Seeing them sit together in a row like this…reminds me of parent’s day at school.)
< Index >
Chapter 5
Faust: Before we start, know that what we will be covering today may not be anything new to you. You probably already know the subject matter.
Shylock: There is always something new to learn. Watching Mr. Faust who’s popular with the younger wizards teach will serve as great pointers to us teachers.
Faust: I don’t want to hear that from you. Your lessons always make the younger wizards and their magic more toward the bizarre.
For some reason whenever classes end, a few wizard's mannerisms tend to match that of yours…
Shylock: Hmhmhm. Let’s call it the fruits of their learning.
Akira: (Just what kind of learning…)
White: Now now, the kids are waiting! Do not mind us, it’d be best for you to start.
Faust: …Well, if you guys don’t mind. Back to business it is.
Today, I’ll be teaching you about the “King of Water”. A strange fairy that calls beautiful and calm waters its home.
Can anyone explain what kind of spirit this “King of Water” is?
Arthur: I’ve read about them before in a book when I was young. I read that there are times where they run wild, punishing those who pollute the waters, and also times where they give a blessing to those who respect them properly…
Faust: That’s the King of Water. Good memory you have. There is actually one living here at this lake, though it’s still young.
Akira: (A young fairy…Shylock did say we might be able to see young fairies around here…)
The “King” in its name was the same as the way you’d refer to the lion as the “King of Beasts”, in that it was a fairy that held stronger magic than any other water fairy or sprite.
From fish to waterfowl, their forms could be any of the sort. The essential feature to tell them apart was their red cloak they’d have draped over their body.
Faust: When it becomes an adult, it will leave its nest it was raised in, that being the lake. The interesting part however is the length of that growing period.
Within three hundred years of a lifespan, they spend two hundred as a child.
Mitile: Wha…so they’re a child for two thirds of their lifetime!
Riquet: The time they spend as an adult is considerably smaller than their time as a child…
Faust: Even more intriguing is that the fairy living here has been in its child state for over two hundred years. Isn’t that right, Shylock?
Shylock: Indeed. This year I believe it will be 220 years old.
Arthur: …Twenty above the average…though you can chalk it up to individual differences, twenty years seems to be a pretty big difference…
Mitile: Oh no…that’s so sad…
White: There is no need to feel pity.
We twins are forever children as you can see, and are very much enjoying the kid’s life. Riiight, Snowy?
Snow: Yeees, Whitey. When you’re a kid you get to be pampered by everybody, so it’s a win for Team Happy Kid’s Life, having our heart’s fill of fun!
Snow & White: Kyakya!
While they faced each other and held their hands in delight, Mitile slightly bit his lips.
Mitile: But…even though you two have the forms of children, you’re actually really powerful adult wizards. You can even use magic when you want to transform.
Being stuck as a child means yourself, your body, and your power remains that of a kid. If you wanted to be an adult, you couldn’t.
I think it’s way more frustrating to be stuck as a useless child…
Akira: …Mitile….
I didn’t know what to say to Mitile, who was adamant in his words.
Even the teachers, who I thought would say something, only looked at him in silence. Then with a start, Mitile lowered his head in realization.
Mitile: Ah…I, I’m sorry. I stopped the class.
Faust: No need to apologize. It’s a worthwhile endeavour to place yourself in the shoes of others and try thinking from there.
…When the time comes, the King of Water will grow its wings on a warm and peaceful night. It will gain power from the waters that raised it, and within a night become an adult.
During that change, the spirits and water sprites of the land will react strongly, and can cause a wondrous phenomenon to occur.
Riquet: A wondrous phenomenon…Oz, have you seen something like that before?
Oz: Many times, in the past. I saw an inimitable sight.
Riquet: Inimitable?
Oz: It means it was unlike anything else in this world. You, Arthur, and Mitile would love it. It was a beautiful, brilliant phenomenon to behold.
Riquet: Beautiful, brilliant, and unlike anything else…do you think I’ll get to see it someday?
Twinkling eyes absentmindedly ran off to dreamland as a mysterious grin formed on Shylock’s face.
Shylock: Oh yes, I’m sure of it.
Faust: …Gold stars on the oral exam, everyone.
The morning class ends there. You did well.
Arthur, Riquet, & Mitile: Thank you for the lesson!
Arthur: You’re really good at teaching, Faust. It was a fun class!
He stretched widely. His shining blue eyes that were full of curiosity and a thirst for knowledge were satisfied.
Arthur: I’ve dropped in many times with Shino and Heathcliff, but your classes are always so interesting. I feel like it sticks in my head better than when learning alone.
Please, let me take another one of your classes sometime!
Faust’s eyes widened at that energetic and captivating smile for a second.
Then his gaze quickly turned to the floor. It was a sudden action coming from him, and like he was erasing his expression he took his sunglasses off to wipe them.
Faust: …Glad you think so. I don’t believe I can teach you much, but if the opportunity rises, then sure.
After this, we’ll have lunch and proceed with our afternoon class.
Shylock: My, you stick to quite the rigid schedule. As expected from our Eastern wizard.
Faust: …Don’t tell me, you still haven’t planned out what you’re doing on your day of teaching? We all decided to have our own days to hold a class.
Snow: How rude! We’ve properly decided what we’ll be doing for our class!
White: Yes, but not much to it. It’ll be a sort of open class, free to do as you please.
Shylock: I also have my class’ subject matter and schedule properly decided. Before then however I plan to give out freetime.
Oz: …I meant to plan something.
Arthur: That feeling is what matters!
Faust: …This makes me wonder if I’m the one who’s been too strict on the kids…
Riquet: I like your way of planning, Faust. The way you have a confirmed time and subject matter laid out reminds me of the Church I was in. It’s comfortable.
Faust: …That’s…well, thank you, Riquet.
Mitile: Since breakfast was made by Lord Oz and Prince Arthur, it’ll be up to me, Riquet, and the Master Sage to make lunches for everybody!
Riquet, Master Sage, let’s go to the kitchen.
Riquet & Akira: Yeah!
Mitile and I finished our meals a step faster than Arthur and Riquet, and were out on a lakeside walk to help digest.
The afternoon class was going to be on practical skills. Since he needed time to set up, we were told to do as we pleased while waiting.
Mitile: Ah, this leaf…
He leaned over into the lake. He plucked off an aquatic plant that resembled bamboo grass. Treating it like origami paper, he began to make something.
Akira: What’re you making?
Mitile: Hehehe, you’ll find out soon. Put it over here like this, slip this there…
Ta-daaa! It’s a leaf boat!
Akira: Ooh, amazing! You’re good, Mitile!
Mitile: I used to fold lots of these for the kids back home when we played by the river.
I was put in charge of watching over the younger kids often.
Akira: So that’s why. Like a big brother yourself you trained your leaf-boat making hands to make them for everyone, so it’s a natural skill to you.
Mitile: Yup! Though since we’ve come to the manor, the only time I’ve made them was when teaching Riquet about paper folding.
…Because I’m the youngest one at the manor.
Eyes the colour of young grass looked to the lake, and Mitile floated the leaf boat upon it.
I was worried it’d float to the sea, but the boat merely stayed floating in place. The waters were that calm.
Turning his focus from the boat that swayed in the same spot to the warm and silent waters of the lake, he spilled what was on his mind.
Mitile: Somewhere on this lake…is a 220 year old King of Water who can’t become an adult.
I wonder if it’s doing its best to become an adult as quickly as it can…
I felt a little sad seeing his expression, and remembered the words he said this morning in class.
How it’s frustrating to stay stuck as a useless child.
Akira: (Mitile is the youngest wizard at the manor. The long lived wizards and the younger ones both dote on him.)
(Except…that may be the reason why he thinks he can’t stay the way he is now…)
Yes, he’s the youngest wizard, but the age differences between him, Arthur, Shino, and Heathcliff for instance isn’t that wide.
Arthur however is a prince loved by his people. Shino is a forest guardian acknowledged by other wizards seasoned in battle. Heathcliff represents his family’s domain.
When standing side by side with them, his ambitious nature refuses to be let himself be treated like a child, since they’re young too.
Just because you wish for it though, doesn’t mean you can become strong and capable right away.
Akira: (Mitile likely sees himself in the King of Water who’s still a child at 220 years…)
Mitile: …Huh? Master Sage, look at that. There’s a baby bird swimming towards us.
He pointed in the direction of the sea, and when I followed that finger I found a tiny yellow chick facing us.
Akira: Cute! What kind of bird is it?
Mitile: I think it’s a duck. Uh, wait, there’s something red on it…
We looked closer, and that tiny fluffy chick that appeared to be a duck, had a red cloth tied around its neck that draped over its back.
< Index >
Chapter 6
Akira: A, A wrapping cloth…? No, they wouldn’t have that in this world right? Looks like something’s inside.
Mitile: Maybe its owner let it carry some snacks with it…? Wait, humans rarely ever come here, and that’s sort of weird on its own…
Akira: We do have that protection barrier on…ah, it’s swimming in circles around the leaf boat. I guess it likes it?
Mitile: Wow, it is! Hey, I made that you know.
As if it understood his words, the duckling looked up at Mitile.
And with the same ease like it were on land, stood up straight on its legs atop the water’s surface.
Mitile & Akira: Whaaat?!
Akira: I-It’s standing on water?! There’s no way you’re just some regular duckie!
Ignoring our surprise, the duckling flapped its wings and stopped the boat’s swaying. Perhaps to get on, it put one foot on the edge of the boat.
However, the palm-sized duckling was much too big for the slender boat, and couldn’t get on. It continued its efforts though, tilting its head as it did.
Mitile: It’s playing like a little kid…it might be an intelligent magic being. This lake surrounded by nature is where the King of Water lives, after all.
Hey buddy. You want to get on the boat, right? Then I’ll take this bigger leaf and…like that…
…Done! You can try this one now.
What Mitile had made was another leaf boat like the last one but two sizes bigger. Delighted, the duckling climbed on the new boat.
Akira: Ahaha, it’s flapping its wings. Someone’s happy!
Mitile: …Oh, it got off. Aah, it wants to push it around now! Ehehe, you’re so cute.
After enjoying some boat playing for a while, the duckling then gripped the leaf boat, and brought it to Mitile. It blinked its round and cute eyes, as if trying to ask something.
Akira: …Could it be that it wants to make its own boat?
Mitile: You might be right! If it’s you, I’m sure you can learn it.
Okay, look closely now. First, you fold this part here…
He prepared his own leaf, and in front of the duckling’s eyes explained slowly how to make a leaf boat.
Copying him as he watched was the duckling who smartly used its own beak and legs to mimic Mitile. Eventually, it made its own tiny tiny boat.
Mitile & Akira: Wow, you did it! Amazing!
We gave it a round of applause. Pleased, the duckling turned around and shook its butt in dance.
Akira: Ahaha, it loved hearing our praise! Just adorable.
Mitile: I’m glad you’re happy, little duckie! I'm even a little happy too now.
With a tiny boop, Mitile patted its head with one finger.
The duckling then gave a small bow, taking the boat it made into its mouth, and swam away smoothly.
Mitile: Oh, it’s gone…see you later, duckie!
Riquet: Mitile, Master Sage!
Riquet came running to us from the cottage with splashes in his steps.
Riquet: Faust’s afternoon class is ready to start. Let’s go back to the cottage, you two!
Mitile: Ah, yes!
Riquet: We’re going to be drawing magic circles using the whisker of a black cat! He said it would sharpen our ability to see in the dark. Sounds like fun!
Riquet cheerfully spoke. There was ice cream stuck to the corners of his mouth, like he had just eaten his fill of dessert.
Smiling at that sight, a thought then floated into my mind.
Akira: (Riquet is really enjoying this vacation to the fullest.)
Yesterday, while Mitile became a little nervous upon seeing Arthur’s flower, it instead made Riquet more excited for his.
Akira: (It’s not that the two are opposites, though. They’re friends close in age, with their own handful of similarities. When it comes to studying, they both do their best.)
(Then…I wonder where this optimism and straightforwardness of his that enables him to enjoy the vacation comes from.)
Riquet took Mitile’s arm.
The droplets of water that splashed from the steps he took glittered in the sunlight like jewels, and within moments shattered and vanished.
Riquet: Let’s hurry, you guys!
Snow: Now now, today marks the third day of our sleepover-study meet! Our turn has finally arrived.
White: “Playing and Studying!” is our tagline today and the class shall be…a treasure hunt!
Riquet: A treasure hunt…! So basically, an adventure!
Snow: Right you are! We twins have hidden ten treasures of varying sizes within the lake and in this forest.
Your only clue is the presence of our magic. Trace our magic, and find the treasures. And of course, with no teachers helping you!
White: Though we teachers will still be watching over you, just with our true presences hidden.
Know that we will rush to your aid right away should anything happen, so you may search your hearts out for these treasures as best you can!
Arthur: Understood! Let’s do this, guys!
Mitile & Riquet: Yeah!
Mitile: I heard that if you concentrate hard enough, it shouldn’t be too hard to sense someone’s magic…I’m gonna work my hardest for you two today!
Snow: O Sage. As we discussed the night before, you may join the treasure hunting team as well.
We believe it is much more fun to be participating in this sort of event rather than spectating it.
Akira: Thank you! Everyone, I’ll do my best.
White: Now then…let the treasure hunting, begin!
The moment he said it, a wind blew, and whether they hopped on their brooms or made themselves transparent, the twins disappeared.
Mitile: Oooh, my heart won’t stop pounding! Just where could they be hidden? Do you think we can find them all?
Riquet: They said it would be hidden within this forest or the lake. How about we start with this area first?
Akira: Sounds good to me. …Uhm, Arthur?
Arthur: Everybody, over here. I can sense their magic this way!
Mitile: Wha?! Prince Arthur, you can sense them already?
Arthur: Yeah! Follow me, everyone!
Mitile: …! Now that we’re this close, I can sense it too! I can feel something strange coming from that tree…
Riquet: You’re right! It feels weird, though. Like the presence is getting farther and closer…
Arthur: It must be their doing. To test us, they might’ve casted some kind of spell on it.
Whether it was a spell to mask its presence, or magic to let it fly in the skies….aah, I wonder what it will be! We’ve got to find these treasures quick!
He excitedly examined the surroundings. I can’t help but smile at the wise and calm prince showing us a new side to him.
Akira: We’re relying on you, Arthur! You kinda look like an adventurer right now exploring a new land.
Arthur: Do I? That makes me happy! I remember telling Lord Oz about my dream of becoming an adventurer when I was young.
The Lord Twins would often play treasure hunt with me too, though not for practice to become one.
Seeing Arthur sweetly reminisce about his childhood warmed my heart. And with a clunk, something bumped into my head.
Akira: Ow…! W-What was that, a kabuto beetle?
Riquet: No, over there! It’s a tiny round gem that sprouted wings! So…
Arthur, Riquet, & Mitile: It’s treasure!
The moment we let our shouts out, the winged gem hopped away with vigour.
Mitile & Riquet: Nooo, it’s running away…!!
Arthur: I’ll chase it on my broom!
Riquet: Wah! S-Such speed…!
Mitile: He’s as fast as my brother!
Arthur: Wait for me! I won’t let you get away!
Not fearing the trunks of trees, he flew through the air without care of watching where he went.
That figure of his was that of any rowdy adolescent.
Chased by Arthur at exceeding speed limits, the flying gem suddenly changed direction, to the upper level of a large tree with thickly closed leaves and branches.
Mitile & Riquet: What!?
Arthur: Over there…!
Arthur didn’t stop, nor did he slow his speed.
He kept his fierce pace, and burst through into the treetops.
Mitile, Riquet, & Akira: Woaaah?!
Just as we shouted, a large and pure black bird at great speed came flying towards us.
Akira: Eek?! What the?! An eagle!? A hawk?!
Riquet: Oz!
The large bird transformed into Oz holding his staff.
Not even glancing at us, he pointed his staff to the tree that Arthur plunged into.
Oz: Vox…
Arthur: Look! I caught it!
As he was about to cast a spell, Arthur hopped down from the tree branches, leaves stuck to his hair and a wide smile plastered on his face.
In the hand he raised triumphantly, he gripped the sparkling blue gem.
That innocent and proud figure of his was brighter than the gem itself.
Mitile & Akira: It’s a relief you’re safe!
Riquet: Good job, Prince Arthur!
< Index >
Chapter 7
Oz: Arthur, are you hurt?
Arthur: No, I’m…huh? Lord Oz, why are you here?
Oz: …I…
Snow: Hey, Oz!
We already assured you that Arthur would be under our magic protection!
White: And we told you to stay put! Goodness, you’re so overprotective!
Oz: …I don’t listen to orders from you.
Snow & White: But it’s our class!
Arthur: You were worried for me. Thank you, Lord Oz.
I am fine, as you can see, so please rest easy. And I managed to get the treasure!
Oz: You did. Well done.
However, rushing face first into a tree is reckless. Next time, you should think of a better way.
…There are leaves in your hair. Stay still, I will get them off you.
Arthur: Hehe, okay!
We found many treasures in the forest, and went to the lake afterwards.
Arthur: Hm, I sense something over here…
Riquet: Ah, over there…! There’s a doll of a little boy moving fast on the waters!
Akira: It doesn’t look like it’s swimming…maybe it’s attached to something?
I strained my eyes for a better look, when it jumped with a spring. We all stared at it wide eyed.
Mitile: The doll is riding a toy dolphin! It’s just like Cain when he rides a horse!
Riquet: So this is the next test…it’s not flying in the sky nor does it seem to be leaving the lake, so if we run fast maybe we can catch it!
Arthur: Yeah, let’s go chase it altogether! Master Sage, we’d appreciate your help.
Akira: Sure!
We ran around chasing the doll in the shallow waters, but…
Akira: Ah! Sorry, I let it get away again!
Mitile: Don’t worry, I’ll…ack! It went over there!
Arthur: For a stiff little doll it sure can fool us…!
Everytime we thought we finally caught it, it’d do a feint and slip past our fingers.
Arthur wiped the sweat on his forehead.
Arthur: We’ll keep going around in circles at this rate. If only there was a way to block its path…
Riquet: To block it…I know!
Everyone, please leave this to me. I will blind its eyes with my lantern’s light!
Sanretea Edif!
He faced the doll and stuck his lantern out. A white and bright light shone over the doll.
Akira: Ah, the dolphin’s going slower…
Mitile: It’s using its fins to cover its eyes! Even the doll is closing its eyes!
Riquet: Now…!
He ran as quickly as he could. In a flash, he scooped up the dolphin and doll into his arms.
Riquet: Hurray! I managed to catch it!
Mitile: That was amazing, Riquet!
Arthur: Yeah, well done! That was some quick thinking right there.
Riquet: Hehehe. Thank you!
He smiled proudly at everyone’s praises as he held the toys in his hands.
Mitile watched his smile like it was a dazzling sight, but soon turned his head down.
Holding tightly his empty hands together, his eyes began to burn with ambition.
Mitile: …Me too, I need to do something too…
Arthur: We’re close to the sea now. Shylock said that the water is deeper here, so be careful as you walk.
Riquet: Ah, that’s…! I can see something shining in the deep end over there. Perhaps it’s a treasure?
Arthur: Yeah, there’s no doubt about it! My hands can’t reach that far though. We need to use magic to fish it up and draw it closer…
Mitile: I…I’ll do it!
He stepped forward. His magic tool was out, and his expression said that he was ready to challenge the deep seated treasure.
Mitile: Please, let me do this one. I’ll use my magic to shoot the treasure into my hands!
Akira: (Isn’t that magic…the one he was struggling with before this trip that got him all down…?)
…Mitile. You got this!
Mitile: Yeah!
He took a deep breath. Holding his medicine bottle tightly, he carefully recited his spell.
Mitile: Ortonik Sealsispilce.
The surface of the water slightly rippled. The small shining light in the depths of the waters slowly rose upwards.
Riquet: Yes! It’s coming up!
Arthur: Nice one, Mitile. All you need to do is aim it into your hands.
Mitile: Yeah…ah!
Our celebration was momentary. Something was off, and the treasure that burst from the waters missed Mitile’s hands.
Akira: Ah, it dropped back in! Oh no…
Mitile: …ack, another one! Ortonik Sealsispilce.
Mitile didn’t give up. Over and over again, he persistently casted his spell.
Yet every time it would either jump into another direction, or fly over his head…at the very last part of the spell, it’d always go wrong.
Mitile: …Ugh. O-One more…!
Akira: M-Mitile…are you alright? Your throat must hurt by now…
Arthur: The more you panic the more likely your magic won’t work out. We don’t have a time limit on our treasure hunt, so why don’t we take a break?
Riquet: I agree with Prince Arthur. Or, I could cast the spell instead…
Mitile: I-It’s fine! This time will go well for sure!
…Ortonik Sealsispilce!
He shouted his spell, almost in anger.
Arthur: …Ah!
Riquet: The treasure is floating up fast, Mitile!
Mitile: Y-Yes! Just a little more, just a little…more?
Along with the rising sphere of light, the water’s surface began to surge up into a mountain, and–
Everyone: Waaaugh!
Leaving behind it a column of water as it went, a small stained glass ball soared from the water.
It quickly passed through Mitile’s hands, and reflected the light of the sun as it melted into the blue horizon.
Arthur: Ahahaha! What a big blast of water! We’re all wet now!
Riquet: Wow everybody, look! The path of the water splashed turned into a rainbow! Good work, Mitile!
Mitile: T-That wasn’t good work at all! I completely blew away one of Lords Snow and White’s treasures…!
Akira: I wonder how far it went? Do you think we could find it if we ran?
As we were about to panic, above us on their brooms appeared Shylock and Faust.
Shylock: No worries. I can sense that it landed not too far from here.
Faust: We’ll go and retrieve it. You kids can continue your hunt.
Arthur: Thanks, you two! Sorry for making you do it, but we appreciate it.
They gave us a dependable smile before they flew away. Mitile watched their backs as he drooped his shoulders.
Mitile: …I really thought it’d go well this time…
I messed up again…
Those words spilled out from a tiny voice entangled with frustration and defeat, and my heart tightly ached to hear them.
Searching for the right words to say as my eyes scanned the area, I happened to notice something red floating by Mitile’s feet.
Akira: Mitile. There’s some kind of cloth bundled by your feet…
Mitile: Huh? Ah…you’re right. What is this? I feel like I’ve seen this before…
He scooped it up from the water, and from an opening in the cloth an object fell out.
Mitile: This is…a leaf boat…?
Riquet: Woah, it’s so tiny! It looks like one you taught me how to make before, Mitile.
Mitile: Yesterday actually, I taught a duckling I met how to make it. I thought it took the boat it made home with it though…
Akira: If this was in it, then this cloth here must be what that duckling was wearing on its back. Why would it be here?
As we all stared at the red cloth, Arthur let out a gasp.
Arthur: This red cloth…has a strange presence to it.
…This might be…
Riquet: Look, Mitile. The stars have begun to show in the sky. They shine like the jeweled treasures we found today.
Mitile: You’re right. The top of the sky has gotten dark…it’s a marvelous sight, the sunset mixing in with the night sky…
Riquet: Shylock said that tomorrow’s class will be at night. Isn’t it exciting, a night time class?
Mitile: …
Riquet: Mitile?
Mitile: Oh…it’s nothing! Sorry for spacing out.
I wonder what Mister Shylock is gonna teach us. Maybe some strong charming magic?
Riquet: Since it’s Shylock, he might teach us something a little naughty. The last time he taught me something it was like that.
Mitile: Naughty? Like what?
Riquet: How to be a bad boy.
Mitile: …Riquet, you learned about that…?
Riquet: Yes! So if the lesson’s on how to be a bad boy, then I have your back.< Index >
Chapter 8
Riquet: …Oh, wait. Since you’re here Mitile, I’ll go and do this now.
Mitile: Hey, that’s the flower pot from Dr. Figaro…! Riquet, you’ve found your ‘moment’.
Riquet: Yes! Although I’m not as eloquent as Prince Arthur…
Going on an adventure with you guys and laughing lots today made me think that this must be the right moment for me.
Mitile, will you watch over me?
Mitile: Of course!
Riquet: Okay…Sanretea Edif!
I did it! I bloomed a healthy yellow flower!
Mitile: It’s so tall and spectacular, like the sun! The leaves are green and the stem is thick…this is a beautiful flower, Riquet!
Riquet: Heehee. Thank you!
Alright Mitile, next is you!
Mitile: Bwuh?
Riquet: Today you went on an adventure with me, and you got that red cloth–the King of Water’s cloak.
Even Oz and the other teachers said that it was a rare and powerful item. Wouldn’t you say this is the right moment?
Mitile: …You, do have a point…
Snow: Hum hum, I see…it is as Arthur says. This cloth here belongs to the King of Water.
White: There is no mistaking it. It’s the cloak its younger form carries. Mayhaps it was using it as a little bag.
Arthur: I knew it. I thought I felt another strong presence of magic, different from you two.
Akira: Then the duckling we met yesterday was the King of Water in its child form.
Mitile: I figured it must’ve been a magic animal, but I didn’t think it would turn out to be the King…
Faust: Once it spreads its wings, they let go of the symbol of their youth, the red cloak. That might’ve been why it was on the lake.
Oz: It is a rare and powerful item. You are lucky to have it.
Mitile: T-Thank you.
Snow: Still…this is the first I’ve ever seen a King of Water use their red cloak to store toys.
White: A leaf boat, curly twigs, and to top it off, funnily shaped rocks. Ohohoho, it’s like a child’s treasure box.
Shylock: It is a late bloomer for a King of Water. Its tastes and habits may be different to what we normally know.
Mitile: …Why did the King of Water play around like that, and collect treasures in its cloak.
Riquet: Hm?
Mitile: I told you about how the King of Water was playing with the leaf boat when we first met, yeah?
…For 220 years it stayed as a child. Normally it would have been able to grow its wings by then, but it never, never turned into an adult…
Not even the next day, or the day after, or even the next many long years. Like it would never ever…
Riquet: …
Mitile: If it was me, I would never ever be in the mood to play with a leaf boat! I’d be so frustrated, and sad, and distressed!
Riquet, don’t you feel the same?
Riquet: …Well, I…do understand, yes.
Mitile: You do?
Riquet: This study meet is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. It’s been a special and fun time for me.
But I know Mitile, that even though you’re having fun, you don’t feel as special about it as I do.
Ever since you were little, you had been to sleepovers with Figaro or Lennox and others like it was normal.
Mitile: …
Riquet: I’m a righteous wizard that has been blessed with the privilege to be born under the guidance of God. Except…
I find myself wondering sometimes, what it’s like to be like you, being born in a place where sleepovers are common.
To not have to think, whenever I stare at the treasures I’ve collected, about whether I’ll be able to take them with me or not when I leave the manor one day…
Mitile: Riquet…I…
…
Riquet: Oh…why are you holding my hand?
Mitile: …’Cuz I wanted to…do you hate it?
Riquet: I love it. I think I wanted you to hold it too. Hehe, your hand is warm…
Mitile: …Riquet. Why do you think the King of Water spent its time playing and gathering treasures?
Riquet: I…believe that it simply thought it was fun to do so. It’s fun, but someday it might not be able to do it anymore…
So maybe that’s why it was gathering so many things it liked in that cloak before it could outgrow it.
Mitile: …
…Riquet, I…I think I’ll wait on blooming my flower for now.
Riquet: …You don’t think now is the right moment.
Mitile: Yeah. Not now.
Riquet: …I understand. The thought of you and I sharing the same moment made me happy…
but now I’m looking forward to the moment you think is right!
Mitile: …! Yeah, you better look forward to it!
Faust: The Sage and the kids have fallen asleep.
Shylock: Hmhm. They need to have a good night’s rest for tomorrow night, so it’s all according to plan.
Twins in the Painting: Hngggh…
Snow: Phew, we’re out! Ah, the time is ripe! What fun, what fun!
White: Anyhoo, today sure sent us into a panic when Mitile picked up that cloak of the King.
I nearly thought they’d caught onto us about Shylock’s class tomorrow!
Faust: If it’s Arthur, he may have connected the dots…what do you think, Oz?
Oz: There’s a chance he might’ve picked up on it. At the very least, he must have noticed by now that the King of Water is soon to evolve.
Snow: If he has found out, he may also be keeping quiet for us too. Because that is the kind of sweet and thoughtful boy he is.
Oz: Yeah. He didn’t mention anything for the rest of the day, and instead swam in the lake with the Sage and watched fish.
Shylock: I saw their happy smiles earlier from this window. Being able to focus on what’s in front of them and have fun is one of a Central wizard’s charming points.
White: By the way, I am quite worried about Mitile. Even when he was playing with Riquet, he seemed rather out of it. It did look to me like he was still having fun though.
Oz: …Arthur told me that he was under pressure. And because he understands that feeling, he wanted to give him his space.
Faust: Makes sense…well, it’s not like I’ve never felt that pressure before.
When I was Mitile’s age, I was full of myself, thinking things like “I’m not a child” despite my lack of experience and ability.
I couldn’t even imagine what the grown-up me a few years away would be like.
And because our thoughts about the future are infinite, it felt like I was forever stuck where I was in life.
Snow: I get it…you young’uns have a way with words.
Faust: Uh, I’m past the age for that, don’t you think…I’m over 400 years old.
White: So young!! Right, you’re only 400, 400 years old!
Snow: We are so terribly sorry to keep you up this late. If you’re feeling sleepy, Faust, you may head to bed.
Faust: Hey, are you making fun of me?
Shylock: Hmhmhm, it’s just nostalgic. It is hard for those who’ve lived a thousand or even two thousand years to clearly remember their younger days.
The pressures we had, the joys we felt…they are no longer ours. They are treasures that the younger generations can hold.
As an adult, there are times where we want to comfort them and tell them to take it slow, but we know that deep down they themselves don’t wish for that.
Our only job is to watch over them. So that when it’s their turn to reflect on their younger days, they may see their past pains as precious memories.
White: That’s true…
The time you have to happily laugh innocently is limited after all. Especially those kids…
Oz: …Kids?
Faust: Ah…you mean Mitile, Riquet, and Arthur. Arthur is a political face, so it’s easy for him to see the dirt of the country.
Shylock: And Riquet prides himself on guiding humans, while Mitile was raised with the sense that wizards are meant to help others….so he feels he can’t stay a child forever.
White: …Ohohoho. That’s what I meant. I want to cherish the time they have as innocent youth.
Snow: After chatting for so long, my throat has gotten parched. Shall we have a nightly teatime?
Shylock: You can’t go wrong with tea, but I have something better to whip up for us.
Inviebelle.
This here is the meaning of the adult way of fun.
Snow: It’s Sangria!
White: Your homemade flavoured wine!
Shylock: I started making it yesterday. The flavour’s a touch too strong for the kids, so we will be the ones to enjoy it.
Oz: …Nice scent.
Faust: Yeah. The right amount of spice too.
Shylock: …Well then.
To the King of Water. And, to our young wizards.
Everyone: Cheers.
The next night. When Shylock came to call us for his class, it was almost deep in the night.
The time that we would already be fast asleep by now. Hearts beating a mile a minute at the unusual class, we all stood in front of the Lake of Young Hearts.
Mitile: Are we having class by the lake?
Riquet: If it’s a lesson that we have to do at this time only, is it a specific ritual?
The lake in the dead of the night was lukewarm, and mysteriously silent. Shylock grinned mischievously at the pair who tilted their heads in wonder.
Shylock: Indeed it is. Rather than a lesson, I would describe it as a field trip or survey though…
If I must name it, then it’s a sight that is beautiful, brilliant, and unlike anything else in this world.
Or you could call it the continuation of Faust’s class.
Akira: You mean…
The water at our feet slightly rippled.
< Index >
Chapter 9
Mitile & Akira: Woaaah…!
Riquet: Wow, wow! There’s fireworks shooting in the water!
Bubbles of light gushed forth from the shallows and bloomed on the water’s surface into the colours of the rainbow.
Stirrings of movement gently swayed the water, and burst into dazzling lights. Just as Riquet said, they were like fireworks.
Arthur: It reminds me of sitting on my broom and looking down at the fireworks shooting up into the night sky…it’s stunning.
Flowers of light sprouted and scattered, leaving behind a vibrant imprint as they went.
Red, orange, yellow…numerous colours lighted up my face, and I see Mitile look up to Shylock.
Mitile: Uhm, Mister Shylock…is this the King of Water’s…
Shylock: Precisely. This is the phenomenon talked about in Faust’s class, the King of Water spreading its wings.
I actually invited you all here to this cottage to show you this.
Mitile: Wha…!
Snow: And it was we who predicted the time of its evolution!
White: Wanting to show this sight to you, Shylock came and discussed it with us. Of course, our prediction was right on the button!
Shylock: I planned for this moment to be the finale of our vacation, which I unfortunately could not change for Figaro.
All of a sudden, Oz turned his gaze on the centre of the lake. We all face him.
Oz: …It’s time.
Mitile: Ah! Master Sage, it’s the duckie!
Akira: The little duckling…! It really is the King of Water…
As it swam to the middle of the lake, the duckling flapped its feathers and made a splash in the water. A stiffening silence fell over us.
And in an instant, the lake began to let off an intense glow.
Riquet: Woah, bright…!
Arthur: There’s a huge light coming from where it swam to…!
From the lake’s centre spouted those glittering rainbow lights that glowed bright with every beat of a heart.
The lake surface begins to continuously swell up with power, the same way a cicada breaks out of its shell, writhing with all the strength of its newborn life.
Today of all days, the King of Water ends its youth and becomes an adult.
Mitile: …You can do it…
You can do it…!
He held his hands tight and the lake shone with light. At the blinding brightness I close my eyes.
And when I opened them…the overflowing light was gone. As if in celebration, the lake’s surface blew up with more fireworks.
Riquet: Look! The King of Water became a huge swan…!
Faust: Yeah. It safely spread its wings and evolved.
What lied where Riquet’s finger pointed was a single, breathtakingly beautiful swan.
It trembled, sending droplets of water, and its lustrous wings began to glisten in seven colours. Even such a casual action looked graceful and divine.
Arthur: So dignified and majestic…an appearance that truly fits the title of King.
Oz: Indeed. It’s been some years since I’ve seen a King of Water with this much power.
Shylock: Maybe it has to do with its prolonged youth. Flowers that take longer to bloom give out the largest fruits, as they say.
Mitile: …So that’s its adult form…just a few moments ago it was a tiny duckling…
He stared at the great swan sitting in the waters, and like it was a sight too bright to see, he gently lowered his eyelids.
Mitile: Me too…
I’m gonna, one day…
Akira: Ah…
The King of Water spread open its wings. Calm and composed, it flapped its wings, soaring high into the sky.
Snow: Time to leave the nest.
White: To a far, far away place. No matter where it goes, I’m certain that one will make a fine protector of the waters.
Solemnly, we all watched the King of Water as it flew when…
Mitile: Huh…?
Riquet: Oz, what is it doing? It keeps flying back and forth between the forest and the lake.
Oz: …I am not sure. Usually it should be flying off into the horizon by now.
Arthur: It flies above the same places over and over. Is it trying to communicate with us, or is it searching for something…
Mitile: Searching for…ah!
A sudden look of realization on his face, Mitile dug his hands into his satchel.
Mitile: Could it be that it’s looking for this?
Faust: That’s the cloak it used to gather twigs and rocks…they normally discard it right before their transformation…
Shylock: Knowing their habits it would be strange to be searching for it…but this King is the strange one.
White: Should we want to hide ourselves, I can cast some cloaking magic.
Snow: It should give up its search and leave after some time. Mitile, you have no need to let go of it.
Riquet: …It can’t take them with it…
He stopped his words. His eyes started to waver at the King of Water.
And for some reason, Mitile’s gaze was turned more on that expression of Riquet’s than the King itself. Mitile’s hands gripped the red cloth that contained the leaf boat.
Then, he looked towards the great swan flying in the sky.
Mitile: I want to give this to the King of Water…I want to give this back to it.
It’s probably…something very precious to it after all.
So precious that even though it’s grown into a strong and proper adult now, it doesn’t want to leave it behind.
Riquet: …Let me help you, Mitile.
He took out his magic lantern, and stood by Mitile’s side.
He didn’t say a thing on why he was helping Mitile. Instead, he simply held his hand.
Those grasping hands held a meaning to Mitile that he understood and I could not, and he squeezes Riquet’s hand in return.
Riquet: Sanretea Edif.
The lantern glowed with a light strong enough to guide your path. However, the King of Water that was flying by the forest did not notice it.
Beside him, Arthur stepped up.
Arthur: …Pernoctant Nixzo.
Mitile: Wah, a firework…!
Arthur: When I was younger, and left for a new home…I was also comforted by the simple memories I had.
I would run my hands over the cover of my magic tome, and search for traces of the Aurora in the night sky…
So I’m certain that the memories of its time at this lake, even as an adult, is bound to give it the strength to make its new home in unfamiliar waters.
Oz: …
At the loud burst of Arthur’s firework, the King of Water turned around, and it seemed to notice the red cloak illuminated by the lantern’s light.
With a single leap of flight, it made its way towards us, and landed nearby. Mitile held his hands out with the cloak within.
Mitile: I…picked this up. Please take it with you wherever you go.
Ortonik Sealsispilce.
He gently recited his spell, like when he would cast a spell of blessing.
Controlled by Mitile, the red cloak of long held memories floated up, taking off on its own journey.
Not wavering in the slightest, it made its way to where the King of Water stood and took it with its beak.
Mitile: …! I did it…!
Shylock: Congratulations, Mitile. That was flawless magic you’ve performed.
Snow: Mm? It’s doing something weird again. Shaking its butt and flapping its wings…
Mitile: That’s the dance it does when it’s happy! Ahaha, I’m glad you’re happy!
Riquet: …Ah! The King of Water…!
Leaving us with a bow, the King of Water once again spread its wings wide and flew into the night skies.
With a flap, many white feathers dislodged, and came fluttering down.
Tracing a peculiar path as they gently fell, they circled right into Mitile’s hands, a parting gift from the King of Water.
He quickly picked them up, eyes widening.
Cheeks red with blush, Mitile shouted to the King of Water in the sky.
Mitile: Thank you!
Be well…!
It circled around in response, and then disappeared off into the vast horizon where the stars twinkled bright.
The teachers who stood behind the students and watched over them warmly came up close.
Snow: You did a good thing.
White: And received a good blessing.
Mitile: Blessing? Do you mean these feathers?
Faust: Yeah. Try pointing the end of a feather to the fireworks in the lake.
Shylock: You’ll be able to see something phenomenal.
As instructed, Mitile took a giant feather and brought it close to the water’s surface.
And as if pulled by the feather, the fireworks floated up out of the water, sticking to the end of the feather like a ball of light.
Mitile: Wow, the firework’s dangling from the feather…!
Riquet: Amazing…! It’s like you’re fishing fireworks, Mitile!
Silently sparkling, the balled up firework reminded me of sparklers back home. With long shadows dragging behind them, the twins explained.
Snow: Interesting, isn’t it. The King’s power left behind in the feathers attracts the spirits and water sprites to create this miracle.
White: As long as you don’t shake it too hard, the firework should cling to it for a while.
Snow: Though once the spirits and water sprites have calmed down, the fireworks will disappear. So until then, play until your heart’s content.
Arthur: A kind of play that can only happen for a limited amount of time!
Riquet: I want to try too! Mitile, can it be my turn after you?
Mitile: No need for turns when we can use them together! Here, Riquet, a feather for you. And everyone too!
He returned the firework to the water, and handed out the feathers to everyone.
< Index >