cainluvr69

[cainluvr69]

"A Sympathetic Fruit" Cain SR Card Story - Folding a Special Flower

Cain: Hmm…

Rustica: Why hello there, Cain. Penny for your thoughts?

Cain: Oh, Rustica. I was just thinking about what to do with the flowers for the vases. Ordinary flowers would be fine, but you have to devote a lot of time to them to keep them alive. Magic could make up for some of the difference, but Heine's not healthy enough to do the rest…

Rustica: I see, I see. Of course. Then why not fold some out of fabric? Do you have a handkerchief?

Cain: Wait, so I'd make them with a handkerchief?

Rustica: Yes, yes. Why, just the other day, Chloe made a lily out of a sky-blue handkerchief. It continues to bloom so beautifully on my table, in fact. So I am sure such a flower would continue to bloom eternally for Heine.

Cain: Lilies made from handkerchiefs… They'll look nice and festive, and we'll be able to make a bunch of them. That's a solid idea. Alright, yeah, let's go with that. Hey, by the way, how do we make them…?

Rustica: Chloe showed me how to do it. Watch closely, now. First, line up this corner to this one. Turn the handkerchief into a rectangle.

Cain: …? Uh, that's a triangle.

Rustica: Oh? Maybe if I fold it like this… Here we go, now it's a square.

Cain: That's a pentagon.

Rustica: And then you do this… Hm? Perhaps not? Hmm…

Cain: ……

Rustica: …… My apologies. I seem to have just plumb forgotten how to make them.

Cain: Yeah I, uh, could tell. Thanks for trying anyways, though. But, dang, the handkerchief idea was really good… Hmmmm… …Oh, I know. How about roses?

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Rustica: Do you know how to fold a rose out fabric, Cain?

Cain: Yeah, more or less. Let's see, this goes like this…and then you round it out like this… …There, finished.

Rustica: Oh, this is indeed a rose! Clap clap clap! I'm surprised that you have experience in this area. I suppose this must be something kids these days enjoy.

Cain: Uh, maybe, but I don't think so…? This was something I came up with on my own ages ago. Back when I was still in the knights, there was this time when while I was patrolling, I found a little girl who'd wandered in on accident and got lost. She was crying about how she'd just wanted to give one of the castle's flowers to her little brother. It was so bad I couldn't even ask her what her name was. All I could think to do right then was fold her a rose. …Something that sort of looked like a rose, at least.

Rustica: My, I'm sure she must have loved it. How wonderfully thoughtful of you. …On that subject…

Cain: Yeah?

Rustica: Could you tell how to fold that rose of yours? I've been trying to copy you for a bit, but…mm…?

Cain: Oh, so that's why you've been fiddling with that handkerchief. I was trying to figure out why you were doing that… How about we get a little more methodical about it. I'll fold the roses, and you give me the cloth. It should be pretty, but also no colors that might mean something bad in flower language, and we'll need a lot of it. Surely this should be child's play for the West's foremost heartbreaker?

Rustica: Oh, but of course. I would gladly take on this role for you. Yes, just for you… Central's kindest and most courteous heartbreaker himself.

Cain: Ahaha, alright. Sounds like they should try to keep everyone from falling in love with us. Well, let's get going!

Training Episode: Shockingly Skillful?

Akira: Rustica told me that the other day you taught him how to fold a rose out of a handkerchief. Do you think you could teach me, too?

Cain: Sure. Uh, but it might be kinda difficult to explain in words. Lemme just show you. First you gotta fold it into a triangle, and then you do this…and roll this… And then you do it all over again, and…

Akira: …Oh, and it became a rose! Amazing! So cool!

Cain: Haha, thanks. Gimme a little more time and I can make other flowers, too. Like a tulip, or a lily…

Akira: Woah, that's amazing! Origami is so difficult, too…

Cain: Ori--what…? Well anyway, it's not like it'll be easy for everyone, but it's nothing super difficult, at least. Some of these I learned from Chloe, though, so don't quote me on it.

Akira: It's still amazing that you know so many, though! You could make a whole bouquet from handkerchiefs alone.

Cain: Oh, now that's an idea. Maybe I'll ask Chloe to make one with me sometime?

Akira: Yes, that sounds so fun! Let me see it once you finish it. (…That flower really is folded beautifully, though. Cain is pretty good with his hands, huh?)

Cain: …Whoops. Now that I'm looking more closely at it, this handkerchief has a few stains on it… Well, whatever. Just means I need to flip it over and then no one will see them.

Akira: (…Bit of a shock, coming from someone like this…)

[cainluvr69]

"For Each Hero, A Petal" Cain R Card Story - An Echo of Kindness

Cain: So this town is related to Lord Alec…

Akira: It must mean a lot to you as a native of Central Country.

Cain: It does, yeah. And while I was still working in the castle, it was like I was surrounded by little stories and extra details about him. Hearing about how he used to do, like…play-pretend fighting really stuck with me. I was like wow… I've done that too…

Akira: Play-pretend fighting…? What do you mean?

Cain: So this happened pretty shortly after he took the throne. There was a group of kids in what'd become the royal capital playing in a field, talking about how one day they'd grow up and be part of the revolutionary forces too.

Akira: (Ohh, so like little kids pretending to be their favorite character in the Sunday morning Superhero Time show block?)

Cain: But they didn't have enough people playing the grunt soldiers, so they called out to a young man walking nearby and asked him to play with them. The young man agreed and joined their group, running around and shouting stuff like "Lord Alec, it's time!" at all the right moments, all that good stuff, but… Well, you know how this ends. That was his Majesty King Alec himself, patrolling around town.

Akira: I…! I thought so…!!

Cain: Ahaha. That story got passed around a lot when people were talking about what a kind person he was. It was one of the number one stories they went to to prove it. …But. I think he went to play with children incognito for a different reason.

Akira: Really? What other reason could there be?

Cain: I mean, it'd be like some kids asking me to play knights with them, you know? So what I think it was, was the joy and excitement of knowing that everything he'd done was now just something kids could act out for fun. So of course he'd wanna join in on that when the opportunity presented itself!

Akira: I see… (I know I've heard about how Central's first king, Alec, wasn't raised as a noble, but just a regular kid. That's how Cain was raised, too…) (…He probably doesn't realize it, but now that I'm thinking about it, the two of them are kind of similar, aren't they?)

[cainluvr69]

"His Large Hand Stroking My Hair" Cain SSR Card Story - The Same Relationship As Always

That day, we'd come to the City of Skyblue to check up on the abnormality that <the Great Calamity's> influence had caused. During our initial investigation, the thoughts of a girl who had died young, Ciel, had taken root in my heart… And to let her pass on peacefully, my wizards had to let me dote on them.

Cain: Master Sage, let me know if you aren't feeling well. Don't push yourself, alright?

Akira: Thank you. I'm still feeling in control of myself right now, so don't worry.

Cain: You sure? Well, good to hear. You're putting a lot of effort into what Ciel wants. Y'know, that whole "doting" thing.

Akira: Yes! …Although, to be honest, I really can't imagine you of all people getting doted on, Cain.

Cain: Haha, same here, honestly. To be honest, I'm worried I'm not gonna take to it well at all. I only want you to see me at my coolest, after all.

Mitile: Master Sage, Cain! Are you taking a walk? I saw a beautiful rainbow bridge over that way! I thought it'd be nice if you saw it too. If you want, I can take you there!

Mitile took both my hand and Cain's. It was so simple and innocent a gesture that both of us smiled at him.

Akira: (…Oh, I know!) Um, Cain. What if you tried acting like Mitile did just now?

Cain: Like Mitile?

Mitile: Like me?

I told Mitile what Cain and I had been talking about.

Mitile: …I see, I see. So you want to let yourself get spoiled for miss Ciel's sake, but you don't know the first thing about how to do that. So you wanted to mimic me…but I don't see how those two things go together?

Akira: Err, um, I was just thinking that the two of you are kind of alike. You're both active, assertive, and shine like little suns. But you have an older brother, so you're used to having someone look after you in a way different than Cain does… So I was thinking he could talk to you about it.

Mitile: Mmf. Doesn't that mean you think I'm acting like a child?

Akira: Oh, no no, that's not what I meant. I mean, there's a totally different reason why I find myself wanting to look after you…

Cain: I get what you're trying to say, Master Sage. Being around Mitile and Rutile makes me start wondering what it'd be like to have a little brother, and it makes me wanna start spoiling him rotten. …Like this.

Mitile: Wah.

The corners of Cain's eyes crinkled up in a smile, and he ruffled Mitile's hair with one hand. Mitile was startled for a moment, but then he smiled, too.

Cain: So, Mitile. Will you teach me how to let other people take care of me like that?

Mitile: … Umm, I'm not sure if I'll be able to teach something like that, but… I'll do my best to help you and miss Ciel out!

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Mitile nodded. He didn't seem upset about it, but he did look a little embarrassed.

Akira: Thank you, Mitile!

Cain: It's reassuring to have someone like you to rely on for this. Shall we start going to the rainbow bridge? You can hit me with some pointers on the way there.

Mitile: Sure, that sounds good. I'll lead the way!

Mitile took my right hand and took a step forward. Cain observed the simple gesture and nodded, having come to some sort of internal understanding about it, and extended his hand to me as well.

Cain: Akira. Is it okay if I hold your hand too?

Akira: …! Of course!

I had a flower on each arm, their hands warm enough that their body heat made it all the way to my heart.

Akira: (Alright, I need to work hard at doting on Cain, too!)

✦✧☾✧✦

The rainbow bridge was a bit far, so we took it easy so we could take in the sights and sounds of the town as we walked together.

Mitile: Th-the juice at that stall over there looks really good!

Akira: Ooh, and they've got all sorts of other drinks, too!

Cain: Since we're here, let's all get something. Pick whatever you want.

Mitile & Akira: Yay!

Akira: (…Wait, crap!) I'm so sorry! Isn't this the type of situation where I should be the one paying for your drinks instead to properly spoil you…?!

Mitile: You have a point… It's usually my brother treating me and not the other way around, so…?

Cain: Sorry, I'm really used to treating, too…

Akira: Alright, then it's time for me to shine! Pick whatever you want, you two. (…But will they really let me? Mitile especially doesn't like being treated like this by me…)

Cain: Thanks. Be sure you get something too, though. Let's see… I guess I'll just get a coffee.

Akira: (Oh, is he picking something out first so that Mitile doesn't feel bad about picking out what he actually wants?)

Cain's gesture of consideration made me gasp a little (just a little!) in admiration.

Akira: (Wait, no. I need to be doing better.) What do you want to drink, Mitile?

Mitile: I'll get the juice! The one on the menu, the special. It says it's made with a rare kind of fruit that's only found in the area.

Akira: Ooh…! So it's something that's totally unique to this town!

Cain: Man, I guess I'll get a cup of the apple juice, then. Listing to Mitile got me wanting some, too.

Akira: Of course. Alright, here we go…

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After we got our drinks, we continued our walk. Mitile immediately took a sip of his juice, eyes glittering with excitement.

Mitile: …Uu.

Akira: Oh, do you not like it?

Mitile: Well, it's just, a little too sour for me… I'm so sorry. You even went out of your way to get it for me…

Cain: Then let's trade. I don't mind sour stuff at all.

Mitile: Are you sure? Thank y-- …Wait, Cain! I mean, I'm happy for the offer, but…!

Akira: Cain, you've been the one trying to spoil us this whole time…!

Cain: Huh?! I can't even do something like this?!

Akira: (Me when I'm in a spoiling people competition and my opponent is Cain Knightley…!)

✦✧☾✧✦

As we continued on our way, we tried out different ways to spoil and how to be spoiled--and to be frank, I just couldn't get used to it. But we kept experimenting all the way to the rainbow bridge.

Akira: Woah, it's beautiful…!

Cain: This is amazing work… They turned the bridge itself into a canvas.

Mitile: It's so pretty, right! I'm so happy I got to show it to you. …Hm? Hey, Rutile's over there.

Akira: Oh, you're right. Heeeey, Rutiiiile!

Mitile: …He's not responding. Did he not hear you? Do you mind if I go get him? I want to show this bridge to him, too.

Cain: Sure, go for it. Thanks for bringing us here.

Mitile: Ehehe, you're welcome!

We saw Mitile off, and now that we were alone again, just us and the bridge, a reminder of what we were doing washed over us.

Akira: Trying to dote on others and trying to let yourself be doted on are a lot more difficult than you'd think, huh.

Cain: For real. I didn't think it'd be something I'd struggle with like this. But looking at you and Mitile just makes me want to start looking after the two of you, y'know?

Akira: Ahaha, I guess you're just a natural older sibling-type of person.

Cain: I dunno if that's what I'd call it, but… At the very least, I don't think that Ciel would be happy with us trying to force the issue of who's the one who gets doted on and who's doing the doting. …So can we go back to how we always are?

Akira: Yeah, we'd be kind of missing the point of doing this if it wasn't sincere on both our parts… Not a good stage for stilted acting, and all that.

Cain: Right? So, here.

Cain extended his hand to me. It was a gesture he clearly had a lot of practice doing, and yet it didn't come off as sleazy or insincere.

Cain: Since we're already here, let's walk across the bridge. May I take your hand?

Akira: …Of course.

I gently laid my hand on top of Cain's, and he squeezed it tightly.

Cain: …Yeah. This feels a lot more natural.

Akira: (It's true. This feels so much more comfortable…)

That sense of comfort, of safety and security in what we usually do, wrapped around me like a warm blanket, and I felt myself relax. I let myself stay a single step behind him, and looked up at his back with unguarded admiration.

Akira: Umm, Cain? I know that trying to intentionally get doted on would be a bit difficult, but, um… If there's anything you want from me, anything at all, just tell me and it's yours. And I don't mean just because of this situation! Any time at all, okay? You're always so kind to me, and I want to repay you for it.

Cain: Don't even worry about that kind of thing, c'mon. But…thank you. …Alright, I know. I do have one thing I want from you.

Akira: …! Of course, anything you want!

Cain leaned towards me, a smile flickering across his lips. He held up our connected hands almost…reverently.

Cain: Let me always escort you just like this. Will you accept my selfish request?

Cain's eyes, golden honey and ruby red jam, were so soft as he asked me that. His smile was the same as always, and he was still taller than me, of course, but something about his expression made it feel like when Mitile looked up at me with those shining eyes of his. My heart skipped a beat.

Akira: Of course, I'd be happy to. I'll be sure to remember.

And at that, Cain smiled so, so happily. The way we already were was the best way for us to dote on each other, wasn't it?

Training Episode: Good At Doting, Good At Being Doted On

Akira: (I'm feeling hungry… I think I'll drop by Shylock's bar and ask him for something.)

Cain: Master Sage? What are you doing up this late?

Akira: Oh, Cain. I'm just feeling a little hungry… Wait, what are you doing with that big basket this late?

Cain: What, this? Let's just say the bar's customers got a little too carried away at the bar tonight.

Akira: Carried away…?

Cain: Yeah. I was actually out doing some evening training in the woods when I started getting hungry, so I stopped by Shylock's bar and they all gave me this. There's all sorts of stuff packed up inside.

Akira: Woah, you weren't kidding!

Cain: Let's see. This bottle of wine is from Shylock, this bottle of water is from Faust, and these sandwiches are from Nero. And then Snow and Rustica packed them all into this basket to turn it into a picnic set.

Akira: Ahaha, that sure sounds like something they'd all do. I dunno if I'd call it them getting carried away, though… It sounds more to me like they all wanted to dote on you a little bit.

Cain: What, really? If I try to eat all this "affection" my stomach's gonna rip open again. Would you want to join me? We can have a nighttime picnic together.

Akira: Of course! That sounds lovely.

Cain: Nice. Off to the courtyard we go, then.

Akira: (Cain really is just plain good at doting on people, but he's pretty good at getting doted on, too…) (But I suppose that's why we all love him.)

[cainluvr69]

"Beyond the Diversion Called a Smile" Cain SR Card Story - A Lesson in Being Popular

Cain: So this is the house of the Sage's "Fated Someone"…

Chloe: There's chocolate absolutely everywhere! It's so amazing that they collected all of this from around the world. But anyway anyway anyway! It's their Fated Someone! Isn't that just soooo romantic?

Cain: Ahaha. You Western wizards sure love to talk about love, huh?

Chloe: Absolutely! I know that since the Sage is kind of in trouble today I should be a little more restrained and stuff, but I just can't help getting excited about this kind of thing! Hey, hey. You're super popular, right? Has anyone ever called you their fated someone?

Cain: Well, sometimes.

Chloe: Omigosh! Tell me more, tell me more! Me and the Sage got so startled we ran away, but what do you when that kind of thing happens to you?

Cain: Erm, well, it's not like I can accept their feelings. So… If they say it lightheartedly, I just laugh it off, but if they're seriously confessing to me, first I always thank them. They really had to screw up their courage to say it, after all. But after that, I turn them down very firmly. Right now I'm focusing on my duties as a Sage's wizard, and that means I can't accept the feelings they have for me.

✦✧☾✧✦

Chloe: …Wow. You're so cool…!! I… I definitely wouldn't be able to handle it the way you do. I'd be so worried about accidentally upsetting them or making them hate me that I'd get so worked up about how to respond I'd just… get stuck and not respond at all. …Even though I guess acting like that would make it all awkward and stuff. Even though we were just thinking about hypotheticals I started getting all upset…

Cain: C'mon, Chloe, don't get so down on yourself like that. Wouldn't they feel the opposite of that, anyways?

Chloe: The opposite…?

Cain: They wouldn't think it was awkward or get upset or anything like that. I think they'd honestly be happy about it. It's not like anyone enjoys knowing their feelings are unrequited, but I think that they'd be happy to know the person they love is considering their feelings so sincerely. After you let them down like that, I think they would still cry it out, but once they did, they'd think to themself, I'm so glad I fell for someone so wonderful. I'm sure you make everyone who loves you happy.

Chloe: … …Ehehe, I hope so. …I really hope that's true…! Thank you, Cain. I'm feeling a lot better now! Gosh, I really understand why you're so popular. I learned a lot!

Cain: Hahaha. Guess it was a good lesson for the West's young heartbreaker! I can teach you more whenever you want.

Training Episode: The Art of Being Popular

Akira: I'm back… Woah?! Cain, what's with all those packages?!

Cain: Oh… Is that you, Master Sage? Sorry. As you can see, I got so many presents I can't see past them.

Akira: Huh? You mean every single one of those in that huge mountain you're holding is all for you?

Cain: Yep. I had to stop by the capital for some personal business and then people just kept handing me them. I dunno if this waws planned or something but before I knew it, here I am with all of these.

Akira: Is today a holiday like Valentine's Day in Japan…? But gosh, you're as popular as ever, huh. But with so many of these you don't really know who gave you what, right?

Cain: …? No, I do?

Akira: Huh?

Cain: This box with the red ribbon is from the florist's daughter. This one with the blue wrapping paper is from a lady that runs a fruit stand. This long, narrow one is from the manager of a cafe on main street… Yep, I still remember all of them. I could tell you everyone who gave me one, and which one it was specifically, too.

Akira: Wow…!!

Cain: Ahaha, thanks. But this isn't all that impressive, really. I mean, every single one of them went out of their way to pick out a present for me, and then worked up the courage to call out to me and offer it. It'd be disrespectful if I forgot who each one was and started getting them mixed up, you know?

Akira: (He says it like it's just natural… But I guess that's what makes people like him so much.)

[cainluvr69]

i just realized i hadn't put like four card tls on the blog masterlist, so that's all been updated!

[cainluvr69]

"Say Aah!" Cain SSR Card Story - The Pinnacle of Deep Frying

Cain: Whew, we sure have walked a lot. Master Sage, you're not too worn out, are you?

Akira: I'm okay. I am getting a little hungry, though…

Cain: I'm definitely feeling it, too. I'm pretty sure I saw a food stall back down that alley. Let's go check it out.

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: Mm, is that smell oil…? Then this stall must be…

Shopkeeper: Welcome, welcome! Step right up!

Cain: Hey, whatcha selling here?

Shopekeeper: "What," you ask… Well, that's a bit rough to answer. Might as well say anything, 'cause I'll deep fry anything!

Cain: …Anything, you say?

Shopkeeper: Eeyup. I'll fry whatever you want, dear customers, and then give it to you. What do you two want? I'll fry it up for you!

Cain: So, really anything? You've got a hell of a business model. Then I'll take a nice juicy cut of bacon!

Shopkeeper: You got it. And for you?

Akira: Umm, I guess I'll take a veggie or two.

Shopkeeper: Gotcha, one nice cut of bacon and our finest vegetables! Both together will be 300 yen.

Cain pulled out his wallet, and as he handed it over, he very casually and naturally touched the stall owner's hand.

Shopkeeper: Alright, now sit back 'n watch!

The shopkeeper grinned and popped a thick slice of bacon and a nougat yam into his pot of oil.

Cain: Man, I love deep fried stuff. I totally get wanting to deep fry anything and everything you can.

Akira: You sure have done that whenever you got the chance, as I recall…

Shopkeeper: Oh, that right? I feel like you 'n me could get along, kid! Here ya go, deep fried to perfection. Here's your bacon.

Cain: Thank you. …Well, don't mind if I do. Damn, that's good! Gimme another!

Shopkeeper: Ahaha! You practically inhaled that thing. Well, gimme just a second. Here's your nougat yam.

Akira: Thank you very much. Now, let me try it…

Mithra: What is that?

Akira: Oh!

Mithra suddenly appeared next to me and snatched my yam out of my hand.

Mithra: Chomp munch. How disappointing. My burnt charcoal has much more impact.

Cain: Hey man, you can't just show up and start picking a fight like that. And while I'm at it, that was the Sage's, not yours.

Mithra: It's their fault for letting their guard down. Besides, they should have something much tastier, with much more impact. In fact, it's terribly inconsiderate of them that they didn't consider doing this.

Akira: (That's an absolutely wild thing to just say like that…)

Shopkeeper: Impact, you say… Well, I guess it's possible that focusing so much on my deep frying means I let flavor fall by the wayside. I ain't as popular as some of the other stalls around here, and I don't get much in the way of feedback, so thank ya kindly for being so upfront about it.

Cain: Mister… Hey, would it be alright if I helped you with your shop?

Shopkeeper: Huh…?

Cain: We're comrades in the art of deep frying. I want to learn whatever I can from you.

Shopkeeper: Well, I'd appreciate the help. Welcome to the team.

Cain: Nice! Well then, let's get right to it… Do you think trying to put more flavor into the coating?

Akira: That sounds like it might be a good idea. Since deep fried food can be a little hard on the stomach, how about mixing in something nice and refreshing? Like how karaage usually comes with lemon slices…

Shopkeeper: I see, I see… Well, let's give it a try!

✦✧☾✧✦

Shopkeeper: And done! Some lightly fried vinegar fish, ready to serve! I added some ultramarine lemon juice to the batter. Here, try it!

Cain: Here we go…

Akira: Thank you very much.

The three of us took a bite of our respective fried fish.

Akira: (…Th-this is…)

Cain: Damn, that's sour!

Mithra: This is much more stimulating, though lightly frying it was unnecessary in my opinion.

Akira: It definitely packs a punch now, but maybe we could make it a little bit more…mellow…?

Cain: We're definitely going in the right direction. There's still something missing, but we're almost there…to peak deliciousness… I know! Mithra, we top this with that secret sauce of yours?

Mithra: Secret…? Oh, you mean this.

Mithra pulled a bottled labeled MAGIC SAUCE out of thin air.

Shopkeeper: Wh-where'd you pull that from…?!

The shopkeepers eyes went wide, and Cain and I frantically exchanged glances.

Akira: (We're in Eastern Country, so it'd be really really bad if it gets out that they're wizards…!) H-H-He's really good at sleight of hand type tricks! This guy, master of stage magic! He loves to surprise people so he always keeps a bottle up his sleeve, if you know what I mean!!

Cain: Yeah, yep! He always pulls it off so cool and casual, right?!

Mithra: What are you two talking about? This is basic magi--momph.

Cain: Anyways, moving on! The sauce he's got here tastes amazing on everything. Wanna give it a try?

Shopkeeper: On everything, you say? Is there really a sauce out there like that? Sounds downright magical.

Mithra: Of course it does. This is my handmade universal sauce.

Cain: C'mon, try it out.

At Cain's urging, we all put some of the sauce onto our fried fish.

Akira: (It's so good. Yakiniku sauce coming in clutch once again…)

Shopkeeper: Th-this flavor…! Y-you gotta tell me! How do I make this sauce?!

Mithra: You can't.

Shopkeeper: Why not?!

Mithra: Because you're nothing but a human--

Cain: Uhhhhhhhh hey! It's actually because the ingredients are really hard to get! It's a real specialty product!

Shopkeeper: Oh, I see… Then would you be willing to part with some? I'll pay you, I've got cash!

Mithra: I refuse. Making more of it would be such a bother.

Shopkeeper: No… It was such a vivid, perfect flavor…

Cain: Well, here's my thought. Why not try to make your own version of it? You're a chef, and you've got a lot experience with, y'know, eating things and examining the flavors, right? I'm sure you can rediscover this sauce's flavor.

Akira: I'd like to help you in this endeavor, too!

Shopkeeper: Well, ya got me. Let me try my hand at it!

✦✧☾✧✦

Shopkeeper: I think I've gotten the base flavor pretty close… What do you think?

The sauce the shopkeeper made certainly looked like Mithra's universal sauce. As for the flavor…

Cain: Mm, something's missing, I think.

Mithra: Yes. Something definitely is.

Akira: I think maybe it's that it's not, like, thick enough? But just a little thicker might be perfect…

Shopkeeper: You sure are eloquent, kiddo. I want to keep you as my taste tester!

Akira: M-me?!

✦✧☾✧✦

We ended up trying several different variations of sauces on different deep fried foods in a lengthy process of trial and error. At some point, Mithra got bored of stuffing himself with fried foods and wandered off.

Shopkeeper: Alright, next up is fried macaroni stalks! Still good to try it?

Akira: Yes. …Here goes. (The sauce counteracts the macaroni stalks' bitterness, but it still feels like something's missing…) (And I've eaten so many things, my stomach feels like it's going to burst…)

Cain: …

Cain glanced over at me with my hand on my belly, and licked a drop of sauce off of one of his fingers.

Cain: Why not add some kind of oil? Like, a climactic oil versus oil battle. You know, like how deep frying stuff plain in butter is really good.

Shopkeeper: No batter, just butter… Damn, I think you might really be onto something here!

Cain: I think the actual flavor of the sauce is spot-on at this point. Other than that, we just need to finish ironing out the proper mellowness and then we're done.

Akira: I think adding some extra oil would be good, too…

The shopkeeper added a few drops of his special, flavorful oil and mixed it in…

Akira: Alright, time for a taste… Mm! This is it!! (This smell, this flavor, it's spot-on yakiniku sauce!) This is it, this is it…! It's a little different from Mithra's magic sauce, but it's really close…this is the universal sauce!

Shopkeeper: Really?!

Cain: You did it!

Shopkeeper: I gotta thank that lad that let me taste this in the first place!

Cain: We'll be sure to tell him.

Shopkeeper: Thank ya kindly. I was so focused on perfecting the art of frying that I forgot to pay attention to the flavor, even though that's what I should've been thinking about if I wanted to make this place more successful. Y'know, I was just about at the end of my rope, thinkin' there was just no helping that I wasn't getting customers since I only deep fried things, but as a fellow afficionado of all things deep-fried…you've given me hope.

Cain: I mean, what else was I gonna do? I'm already looking forward to the next time we come out to this neck of the woods and I get to drop by your stall again.

Akira: Same here. We'll be sure to remember you.

Shopkeeper: And I, you! I'll prepare a deep fried full course meal for you any day!

Akira: (Thank goodness, Cain looks really satisfied, too…!)

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: (But, my gosh, I feel full… I guess we went a little too crazy with the fried foods…)

Cain: You okay, Master Sage?

Akira: Yeah. Just thinking I might've overeaten a little…

Cain: How about we find something light to eat to give your palate a refresher?

Akira: ?! N-no, I'm okay! I feel like if I eat anything else, I'm going to pop… But thank you for the thought.

Cain: Haha. Don't worry, I was just joking. Sorry for making you part of that whole escapade.

Akira: Oh, no, I enjoyed it! Trying to figure out the ingredients for the perfect sauce was really fun.

Cain: I'm happy to hear that. Mithra's special sauce was a big help, but so was your spot-on food reviews.

Akira: I'm really happy that shopkeeper ended up pleased with the results, too.

Cain: Yeah. I hope the next time we come by, that stall's got a big line in front of it.

Akira: And I'll make sure that I don't eat too much…!

Cain: Ahaha, good plan!

****TL Notes: karaage is a type of fried chicken, but distinct enough from what most english speakers picture when they think of fried chicken that i left it as-is. squeezing a lemon slice over it or adding a few drops of vinegar really makes it pop. yakiniku is grilled meat that's typically done over a charcoal stove and topped with, indeed, a particular savory sauce.

Training Episode: The Deliciousness of Killing Two Birds with One Stone!

Akira: Cain? What are you doing in the kitchen?

Cain: Oh, Master Sage. I was craving some good ol' deep fried good and was just about to whip something up. You want any?

Akira: Fried food cravings…?

Cain: Ever since we helped out that fried food stand back in the Town of Blue Scales, I've been wanting to branch out and try deep frying more stuff.

Akira: We sure did eat a lot of fried foods then…

Cain: That said, I still haven't found anything that beats deep fried butter. So there's just this lack of satisfaction I can't get rid of… Can you think of anything good to try? Something unexpected!

Akira: Something delicious, but unexpected… How about ice cream?

Cain: Ice cream…? That's definitely out of left field. Wouldn't it melt if I tried to deep fry it?

Akira: I'm pretty sure there's something you can do to make sure it doesn't melt…

Cain: I see… Well then, let's embark upon a journey to fell the mystery of deep fried ice cream! Eating something warm and cold at the same time is really efficient. Two birds, one stone!

Akira: But if I can't remember how to do it, it's going to take us a long time to figure it out on our own…

Cain: You don't need to force yourself to or anything.

Akira: Huh?

Cain: You know I like spending time with you, Master Sage.

[cainluvr69]

"Magic To Connect Our Hearts" Cain SSR Card Story - His Charm, Etched on the Page

this story is a continuation of sorts of his affection story as well as containing spoilers for ms2, so keep that in mind if reading!

✦✧☾✧✦

A fair amount of time has passed since I first arrived in this world.

Akira: (I want to write something about how Cain is now to follow up what the previous Sage wrote in the Sage's manual. I wonder where Cain is now?)

I wandered through the places the wizards normally gathered, like the dining hall and the courtyard--but where I ended up finding the person I was looking for was the common room.

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: Good afternoon, Cain. So this is where you were.

Cain: Woah. Master Sage?

Arthur: Good afternoon, Master Sage.

Bradley: Yo.

Bradley and Arthur were sharing Cain's table, and they welcomed me as warmly as Cain did. There were cards spread over the table in front of them, and they all had a hand of cards to go with them.

Cain: Did you need me for something?

Akira: I just wanted to talk to you about something. It's not anything important, though, so I don't mind waiting until you guys are done.

Cain: You sure? Well, since you're already here and everything, wanna join us?

Akira: Can I? Thank you.

Arthur: Wonderful. Let's start a new round, then. How does playing Old Maid sound?

Bradley: Old Maid? What are we, five year olds?

Arthur: Oh, should we not? I'd heard they have the same game in the other world, and the rules are fairly simple, so…

Bradley: I didn't say we shouldn't. I'm just sayin' it's kinda freaking lame. There's no excitement, there's not thrill. So here's my idea… <Adnopotensum>

Akira: Woah?! Wh-what's that red liquid…

Bradley: It's made with a fruit that's hot as fire. I think the loser should have to drink this. A good ol' fashioned punishment game.

Cain: Woah, now… If we were getting drunk together that'd be one thing, but we have Lord Arthur and the Sage here, too.

Arthur: Oh, I don't mind. All I need to do is make sure I don't lose. Although it's true that I wouldn't want to subject--

Cain: Naw, the Sage'll join in, yeah? Our valiant leader ain't gonna run away in the face of danger, are they?

Akira: E-eep… I'll do my best…

And with that, our game of Old Maid began. I had Cain on my left and Bradley on my right, so I drew from Bradley's hand and Cain drew from mine. I managed to avoid pulling any queens for the first half of the game, but…

Akira: (Oh jeez, I have the queen! We've entered the final leg of the game, so if things keep going the game's going to end with her in my hand… This is bad…)

Cain: Alright, Master Sage. My turn.

Akira: Ah, right. Here…

Cain: Hmm. Alright, I'll take this one…

Akira: (Oh, that's not the queen…)

Cain: …Nope, I'll take this one instead.

Akira: !! (Did he just change his mind to take the queen instead?)

And so, the game continued…

✦✧☾✧✦

Cain: Ow?! Damn, that's spicy!

In the end, it was Cain who lost…and got hit with the penalty.

Bradley: Hahaha! Next time you go to the North, take a sip of this. You'll forget about how goddamn cold it is in half a second.

Cain: Yeah, that sounds about right…

Cain smiled through the pain and put the empty glass back on the table. Next to it was his final hand: he still held the queen, it having never made it to Arthur's side of the table.

✦✧☾✧✦

Once our game was over, Arthur excused himself, and Bradley just left.

Akira: Cain… I'm sorry.

Cain: Huh? For what?

Akira: The end of our game. You were able to tell from how I reacted which card was the queen, right? And you took it on purpose. I made you worry…

But when I apologized, Cain grinned mischievously and put a finger to his mouth--don't tell!

Cain: Nah, that was just a bad bit of luck on my part. Sound good?

Akira: …! Thank you. (He's always so kind…)

Cain: Speaking of, before we started playing you said you had something to talk to me about?

Akira: Oh, that's right. I was looking through the Sage's manual again and thinking about updating it, so I wanted to ask if I could interview you again.

Cain Yeah, of course. No problem. I've written some stuff in the Sage's manual you gave me, but… Man, that was rough. I think you're amazing for being able to be so methodical and in-depth about it. But I guess if you don't have anything you want to change, then are you planning on adding more? What do you want to ask?

Akira: What do I want to ask… Well, if there's anything you want to talk about in particular, then--

Owen: Then why not talk about that?

Cain & Akira: Woah?!

Like a curtain being silently pulled back, Owen was suddenly standing before us, smiling wide.

Owen: Hey, Master Sage. Would you like to hear a story of our dear Sir Knight's depravity?

Akira: Depravity…?

Cain: What's this about?

Owen: Haha, you got all tense. So you don't want the Sage to know about it? Say, Master Sage, did you know? The virtuous Sir Knight was waited on hand and foot by women, drowning himself in alcohol and gambling like his life depended on it. I remember it so well. So I'll tell you all about it.

Akira: Umm…

While I stood there speechless, Cain clawed at his hair, nails digging into his scalp, until…he simply sighed, a sound of abject resignation.

Cain: Sorry. I wanted to tell you after the inauguration ceremony, but everything was so hectic, and… No, I'm just making excuses for myself. I didn't know how to approach it, and it would just make me look so pathetic that I didn't want to talk about it. But the truth is that I--

Akira: You don't have to talk about it if you don't want to.

Cain: Huh…?

Akira: Sorry for interrupting you like that. But I only want to hear things that you want to talk about, Cain. Would it be alright if we saved this conversation for another day, when it's something that you want to bring up on your own?

Cain: Akira…

Cain stood there, blinking at me, and then he laughed, his shoulders sagging weakly.

Cain: Thanks. Like you asked, we'll talk about this another day… One not too far in the future. I'll make sure of it.

Akira: Sounds good.

Owen watched us smile and nod, and he snorted derisively.

Owen: …What's wrong with you two. You're both so boring.

Akira: Oh, Owen--

I blinked and when I opened my eyes, Owen was gone. The words didn't match the hateful tone he'd said them with.

Cain: What was that all about…? Well, whatever. That was an unpleasant type of interruption, but now it's lunchtime. Master Sage, would you like to go into town with me to grab a bite to eat? I've got a cafe I want to take you to.

Akira: Of course. Let's go!

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: Oh, the coffee smells so good…! And there's so many types of cakes and sandwiches in the display case.

Cain: Good place, yeah? I came here a while back with the rest of the Central wizards and everything we had ruled. What do you want to get?

Akira: Let's see, um… Can I get this sandwich? Oh, but the quiche next to it looks really good, too…

Cain: How about I get the quiche and you get the sandwich, and then we cut 'em both in half and swap? Then we can both eat both.

Akira: Are you sure?

Cain: 'Course I am. I wanted to try this, anyways. Riquet gave it rave reviews. We were gonna try each other's then, but Arthur and Oz were right there…

We chatted about this and that while we ordered…

✦✧☾✧✦

Akira: --and so that's why I'm wanting to write more into the Sage's manual…oh!

Cain: What's up?

Akira: I'm so sorry, we came here so I could interview you but I completely lost track of what we're here for…

Cain: Oh, yeah, you're right… Haha, if I remember right, the last time we tried to do an interview it pretty much ended up like this, too. All we did was chill in my room talking about stuff…

Akira: Ahaha, that's right. Talking with you has always been fun, ever since we first met.

I smiled as I thought back on fond memories, and I straightened up a bit to get myself back on track.

Akira: Let me ask again, then. Is there anything in particular you want me to record in the Sage's manual today?

Cain: Let me think… Man, so much has happened since we first met--the stuff that happened in Western Country included. There's been a lot for me to think about, and a lot for me to feel unsure about, too… I guess in the end what I really want you to write is this.

Cain turned his straightforward gaze to me and smiled.

Cain: You're very important to me.

Akira: …!

Cain: You're open-minded, thoughtful, kind… And every once in a while I get a little glimpse into what lies beneath…but that doesn't make you any less sincere, either. That's what I want you to write. That you've been precious to me since the moment we first met.

Facing that much unvarnished affection head on was just plain embarrassing, but at the same time, my chest felt tight.

Akira: …Thank you so much. Do you think you could write something into your Sage's manual, too? That no matter what you do, or what you think… That I will always love you and your kindness, your generosity, and your cheerfulness.

Cain: Master Sage…

Cain smiled, and his gaze softened. Being looked at like that made me start feeling embarrassed again.

Cain: Gotcha. I'll write it down as soon as we get back. On the cover, in permanent ink.

Akira: Ahaha. Then I'll be sure to find the sparkliest ink I can to write down that I'm precious to you.

The two of us laughed together at our respective jokes. Cain's happiness, playfulness and kindness would be ever engraved in a new page in the Sage's manual--though I had more words to describe him than could fit on just one.

Training Episode: Things I Can Say To You Because It's Now

Cain: Hey, Akira, you're going around interviewing everyone else too, right? There's a lot of us, so you're not stressing yourself out or anything, are you?

Akira: Oh, no, I'm pacing myself step by single step. Other than adding some updated info after what I've already written, I'm asking about things everyone can say now that they couldn't before. Do you have anything you can think of like that, Cain?

Cain: Something I couldn't say before, huh… Mmm, well, I'm the type of person who just says stuff as soon as it pops into my head, so I'm not really coming up with anything off the top of my head.

Akira: I see… …Hm? (Woah?! Over there is…!)

Cain: What's up, Master Sage? Your eyes suddenly grew to the size of dinner plates.

Akira: Umm… Is it okay if I tell you something I can only say right now…?

Cain: You've got something? I mean, sure, but what is it?

Akira: Um… It's something I only just noticed, but… There's a, um, snake in the fountain right behind you. It's a really big one, too.

Cain: … …Are you being for real right now?

Akira: I'm being so for real. It's swimming all slithery-like. I didn't know snakes could swim like that…

Cain: …Alright! Master Sage, let's get out of here. Right now. Sorry, but do you think you could stay with me until we're safely away from that thing? And can you stop me if it looks like I'm going to lose control and cut it to pieces?

Akira: Uh, um, okay…! Let's go, Cain.

Cain: Great. C'mon, snake, don't get any closer… It's for both our sakes…

Akira: (Cain's greatest weakness really is snakes… But now I get to be the one protecting him…!)

[cainluvr69]

"A Flower for a Rendezvous, Given in the Sunlight" Cain SSR Card Story - A Two-Tone Dahlia for You

As Cain and I passed in front of a florist's, we heard a conversation coming from inside.

Florist: …I mean, no matter what y'say, I've never seen somethin' like what you're talkin' about.

Boy: …Okay, I get it. Sorry for taking up your time.

Cain: Oops, sorry, didn't mean to bump into you. Are you okay?

Boy: No, I should be the one… Wah?! The Master Sage and one of the Sage's wizards…!

Cain: Oh, you know about us?

Boy: Of course I do! Let me see, you must be, um, the former Captain of the Knights…

Cain: Yep. My name's Cain, and this right here is our Master Sage.

Akira: Hello.

Boy: Um! I know we only just met, but there's something I want to ask…

Cain: What is it? Maybe we'll get lucky and I'll have an answer for you.

Boy: Have you ever seen a type of dahlia with yellow petals and red edges?

Cain: …No, I don't think I have. What about you, Akira?

Akira: I haven't either. I'm sure I'd remember a flower that looks so distinctive, too…

Boy: …I see. I'd heard that you went all over the world, so I was hoping you might have seen it.

Cain: Mind if I ask why you're looking for it? Maybe we'll be able to help you look for it.

The boy introduced himself as Dahl, and he carefully began to explain his situation. A girl in his neighborhood, named Lia, was going to be moving away soon, and he wanted to present her with those dahlias as a gesture of appreciation for their friendship.

Cain: I gotcha. But aren't there a lot of dahlias in this city? Is there a reason you need that color of flower in particular?

Dahl: Well, I got lost in the forest nearby when I was younger. There'd been a landslide, and I couldn't find my way home without the path. That was when someone suddenly appeared before me, with one of those two-color dahlias in hand. I don't…quite remember exactly how it happened, but I think they must have been a fairy or something like that. I was able to get home because they guided me out of the forest.

It sounded like a very dear memory to him. He had a very gentle expression on his face as he recalled it.

Dahl: So I wanted to give Lia one of those dahlias, like as a way so that she'll find her place no matter where she goes.

Figaro: …Sounds like that flower holds a lot of wonderful memories.

Cain: Figaro!

Akira: When did you get here?

Figaro: Oh, just a little bit ago. I'd lost sight of you, Master Sage, so I went looking.

Cain: Well, you showed up at just the right time.

Akira: He did?

Cain: Yeah, he can help us look for what this kiddo's looking for. He wants to do something for a friend who he's going to be separated from--doesn't that make you want to help him out?

Figaro: I see, I see. Sounds like the more hands we have, the better. In that case I suppose I can help out.

Akira I'll help, too! Let's all look.

Dahl: Thank you so much…! Master Sage, Master Sage's wizards, this means so much to me!

Cain: Ahaha. You don't have to be so formal. Well then, first things first, let's gather what information we can.

✦✧☾✧✦

We split into two groups to try and cover more ground and thus get more info--Figaro was with Dahl, and Cain was with me. Dahl said he'd checked through the forest many times, but never found the flowers he was looking for, so we were asking around at all the local florists about it. But time passed, and we had not a thing to show for it…

Cain: Master Sage, how about we start asking some of the street vendors about it? They go all over the place, so it's possible they've sold the kind of flower we're looking for, or at least heard of it before.

Akira: You're right, I didn't think of that! Let's see if they've got anything for us.

We stepped up to an old man who was opening up his stall for business and explained our quest and the special traits of the flower we were looking for.

Stall Shopkeep: Ahh… I think I've seen it, but that'd be a good several years ago now.

Cain & Akira: !!

✦✧☾✧✦

With the old man's story in hand, we set off for the forest--and who should we find standing at the treeline but Figaro and Dahl.

Figaro: …Oho? I guess if you two are here too, that means there really is something to this forest.

Cain: Wait, are you not here because of what that one travelling merchant said?

Figaro: Nope. We got a bucketload of absolutely nothing on our end. So I flipped the question and started looking for the fairy he mentioned, and that led us here.

Cain: Oh, so you're headed for where he first met the dahlia fairy. We still don't know the precise location attached to the info we got, so we'll go with you.

✦✧☾✧✦

Figaro: Hey, Dahl. When you met that fairy, was it raining at the time?

Dahl: Yes. I remember it suddenly getting so dark and cold. After I got out of the woods, I came down sick and spent a long time in bed after…

Figaro: I guess that means your guide also saved your life, huh.

Dahl: Yeah.

Figaro: …

Something about Dahl's words made Figaro pause. He looked thoughtful. I watched him from the corner of my eye. Figaro was staring into the depths of the forest--until he noticed my gaze and spoke, his voice low.

Figaro: Master Sage, there are no fairies in this forest.

Akira: …Huh?

Figaro: To be honest, I had my suspicions since Dahl first told us his story. I didn't feel any sort of presence like what he described in this city. I thought perhaps it was just so weak that I couldn't sense it while we were still in town, but now we're in the forest itself and I still sense absolutely nothing.

Cain: Then what did Dahl see…?

Figaro: That's why we're here. To find out what this "fairy" really is.

Dahl: …Oh! Look!

I looked up, and Dahl was pointing at something…at someone. Someone with arms full with dahlias.

Dahl: Are you the one who-- Wait!

Cain: Master Sage, Figaro! We need to follow Dahl.

✦✧☾✧✦

We chased after him, but very suddenly, I realized we were not in the forest anymore. My feet fell against the brick road of the city streets. The sunlight was so bright I felt dizzy. Just like that. We were out of the forest, just like that.

Dahl: Waaiit…!

Lia: Huh? Dahl, is that you yelling?

Dahl: …Lia?

Akira: (Lia is the friend who's going to be moving soon, right…?)

✦✧☾✧✦

Figaro: What an adorable fairy we've got on our hands.

Lia: Fairy?

Dahl: N-no, don't worry about it! More importantly, those flowers…

Lia: These? Hehe, they're pretty unusual, right? I got them when I was little, from my grandpa who lives far away. But they won't grow in our garden. I guess the soil doesn't have the right nutrients or something. So I've been secretly growing them in the forest. Oh, that's right… Dahl, you and I first met while I was picking some to bring home.

Dahl: …Huh?

Lia: It was raining so hard that day… You got sick after that and had to stay in bed for a while. It must've been rough.

Dahl: Oh, um. Yeah…

Akira: (Which means our wayward fairy was this girl.)

Dahl went completely silent. I totally got it: the person he wanted to give the flowers to was, in fact, the person who had grown them in the first place. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but then he pressed his lips back together without a word. Cain put a gentle hand on his back and pushed him forward a step, encouraging him to get those words stuck in his throat out.

Cain: …

Dahl looked up at Cain, and Cain nodded. It's okay. Be brave. I could hear those words conveyed to him.

Dahl: Um, do you think I could have one of those flowers?

Lia: Yeah, of course. I wanted to give you one, actually.

✦✧☾✧✦

Figaro: I suppose it being a dark and stormy night, plus how he was already weak and not fully conscious, is what turned her from a regular girl into a fairy guide.

Akira: Yeah. But Lia was definitely a fairy either way in Dahl's eyes.

Cain: Yep. I guess this'll make for another precious memory for him. But he's so embarrassed by it he didn't tell Lia about why he wanted that flower.

Figaro: Well, that's just how kids are. They're so pure and innocent I felt kinda icky watching the two of them.

I thought back to the, walking home side by side, hiding their shy little smiles by looking at the dahlias in their hands. A gift brought by Lia's departure.

Akira: Well, now that we've seen the real thing, it really was a lovely flower, wasn't it?

Cain: Red and yellow go well together. And red and yellow dahlias are already a common sight in this city… So I'm sure the recipient of a dahlia with both colors would feel very loved.

Akira: Yeah. After all, red dahlias are the first present a man gives his wife after they get married.

Cain: You heard what Dahl said, right? He was talking about how he was going to raise those dahlias in the woods now. Once they grow up and get to meet again, he's gonna have those flowers in hand for her. Parting is always a sad thing. But I'd hope that their happy memories will make the flowers bloom beautifully when they reunite.

Cain nodded to both Figaro and I. His two-color eyes, the same colors as the dahlias, were gentle.

Training Episode: I Can't Wait Centuries

Akira: We can plant the dahlias in this part of the garden, right?

Cain: Yep. No one'll step on them by accident here.

Akira: I'm glad we could find a place for the dahlias we got after that mission.

Cain: Yeah. And they're still as beautiful here as they were there.

Akira: Yes. Red and yellow are so vibrant together…

Cain: I heard that the color of flowers can differ depending on what soil they grow in, so I kinda wanna plant some in the nearby forest, too.

Akira: Let's invite Figaro to help us when we do that. He's out on a mission today, so he couldn't help us plant these ones.

Cain: Tell that to Figaro and he'll say that given how long a wizard's life is, in a few hundred years this place'll probably be covered in dahlias.

Akira: Ahaha, yeah, sounds like him. I'm sure it'd be beautiful. I can't even imagine how this place would look in a hundred years…

Cain: …Man, I definitely can't wait a few centuries.

Akira: Hm?

Cain: I mean, I want to see the dahlias again with you. And I wanna ask you if it's really just how you imagined it would be, or is it even more beautiful than that?

Akira: Cain…

Cain: So I hope these dahlias bloom in full force while you're still by my side.

[cainluvr69]

"Creeping Shadows" Cain SR Card Story - Boiling Sensibilities

Cain: Alright, so let's do this here… And put these herbs in next…

Snow: My, I thought I smelled something nice, and who should I find when I follow the scent but you. What's in that big pot you have? Are you cooking something, perchance?

Cain: Oh, Lord Snow. I'm trying to make that "curry" thing Master Sage was talking about, since it's apparently a camping mainstay.

Snow: …Courier?

Cain: No, curry. It's a kind of soup that's made by just throwing in all sorts of ingredients and boiling them together.

Snow: Ohoho, so a type of cooking you excel at, I see. I recall you saying you were just going to "boil up" breakfast for White and I once.

Cain: Ahaha, did I? Well I mean, pretty much anything in the world can be eaten if you boil or fry it.

Snow: Is that true…? Are you sure…?

Cain: So anyways, Akira and the previous Sage said that curry is spicy, with a brown roux, and that it smells really good.

Snow: I see, I see! So we've got a rather fiery soup on our hands, then. So would those herbs you put in be the finishing touch on the fabled "curry" flavor?

Cain: Honestly? I have no idea.

Snow: What.

Cain: Neither of the Sages could remember exactly what kind or how many herbs or spices are supposed to go into it. So the first time I tried to make it, it didn't really turn out very well, but there's all sorts of herbs growing around here, yeah? I figure if I put in a bunch of the herbs here that are close enough to how they remember it, it'll turn out better this time.

Snow: So you're just shooting blindly until you hit the target????

Cain: I'm being pragmatic about it. And well, I've definitely got the spice, but the color and aroma aren't quite right, I think. Please, Lord Snow. Could you also add something that you think might be good?

✦✧☾✧✦

Snow: Goodness, me too? Why, that sounds… …Super duper fun! Absolutely! But you'll be taking responsibility for it, Cain dearest!

Cain: Of course I will. Alright, let's get back to the hunt now.

Snow: How do these herbs seem to you? If my memory hasn't failed me yet they should add a nice bit of spice.

Cain: Sounds great! Go for it, toss 'em in. Ooh! It's smelling great!

Snow: It's still not exactly brown, though. It's almost minestrone-like.

Cain: Hmm… Oh! How about we add some of those yellow flowers over there?

Snow: Sure, why not! In they go!

Snow & Cain: …! Is this…!!

✦✧☾✧✦

Snow & Cain: We did iiiit!! Clap clap clap!

Cain: The moment we added those flowers, we hit "spicy", "brown", and "smells good" all in one go! Now it's time for the taste test. C'mon, you try it too.

Snow: Huh?! Umm~mm, I think I'd like to hear your review first, Cain dear!

Cain: You sure? Well then, here I go. Munch… …It's good!

Snow: For real?! Then, I suppose I shall as well… Munch. …Goodness, this really is quite divine!

Cain: Right?

Snow: I know I'm the one who added the final ingredients, but goodness, I'm amazed we ended up here with such rando--ahem, pragmatism.

Cain: Ahaha. Maybe you've just got a talent for boiling things up! I only could've done this with your help, Lord Snow. Thank you very much. Yay!

Snow: Ya~ay! High five!

Cain: Alright, lemme go call the Sage. I really hope they like our curry!

Training Episode: Typical Toppings

Cain: Master Sage. Did you enjoy the curry we made the other day?

Akira: Right, I wanted to tell you!! It was absolutely perfectly currylike. Thank you so much for letting me taste something from home.

Cain: Nice! I'm happy you liked it. You were eating it with bread, right?

Akira: Yeah, I wanted to pair it with some carbs. But yeah, next time, I'd really want to have it with rice instead. Oh, and then putting pickled veggies and cheese on top too… Oh, but scallions or egg would be good too. Ohh, my imagination's starting to get away from me now that I'm thinking about home…

Cain: Pickles…? And eggs and cheese? It's a very versatile food, huh.

Akira: It really is. It all comes down to personal preference, of course, but putting on all your favorite toppings is definitely one way to enjoy curry.

Cain: Ooh! Yeah, it did taste like just about anything could go well with it. Then I want to add some fried meat. Not fried as-is like I usually make, but properly breaded 'n stuff. Fried oasis pig meat would probably go great with it.

Akira: …Oh, I know, like katsu curry! We had that in my world, too! In fact it's so common that you'd see it on a store's menu separate from regular curry. I bet you'd love it, Cain.

Cain: Nice, a special Sage suggestion. I'll definitely have to try it out, then. I was just putting stuff in randomly, so I don't know if I'll be able to recreate that exact recipe, but… Next time we're in the area, I'll do my best!

[cainluvr69]

"Dancing this Short Summer Night Away with You" Cain SSR Card Story - Visiting the Orchestrion ~ Respite for Cain

✦✧☾✧✦

Here's something that happened on a day where the birds outside were singing especially cheerily.

Akira: (It's almost Cain's birthday. I wonder if he'd like to go to the Orchestrion of Respite with me to celebrate.)

I held the magic item that Rustica had given me--the Orchestrion of Respite--and drew my hand across the lid. It looked like a music box from back home, but if you held it while making a wish for a certain someone to be truly at peace, it would transport both oneself and the wizard in question to a little pocket dimension designed to do exactly that.

Akira: (But if I'm going to do that, I need to make sure I have a solid image of who he is. It's hard to sum him up in just a word, though…mm…)

Owen: Well hello there, Master Sage. Looks like you've got something good there.

Akira: Oh, Owe--waugh! You're all dirty and beat up! Did you get in a fight again…?

Owen: That has nothing to do with you.

Akira: Wah?!

Owen snatched the Orchestrion from my hands and promptly lifted himself up into the air, just out of reach no matter how desperately I tried.

Akira: Um, Owen…!

Owen: If you want me to give this back to you, then I need you to do something for me.

Akira: …Like what?

Owen: This can trap someone inside it, right? So I'm going to put Cerberus and wolves and poisonous insects in it, and you are going to go get Mithra for me. Isn't the idea of Mithra getting stung by bugs over and over in a place he can't escape from just delectable?

Akira: Are you mad at him right now…? Wait, no, that's not the point. This is supposed to be for letting everyone rest and recover…

Owen: Oh, is that right. Hey, out of nails and eyes and eardrums, which do you like best?

*Akira: Eek…!!

Cain: --Hey, Owen! What are you doing to the Sage?

Akira: Cain!

Cain ran out of the main building and stepped directly between me and Owen. Owen narrowed his eyes, clearly irritated, and put his fingers on the clasp that kept his trunk locked shut.

Owen: Don't interrupt. Do you want me to ki--

Cain: Yeah, yeah, I don't want to die, et cetera. Instead of worrying about that, check this out: I got crepes.

Akira: (Hello?!?! Owen's on the verge of releasing Cerberus and that's what Cain has to say about it?!)

Owen: … Crepes?

Cain: Yep, Nero just finished making them. I came out here to ask the Sage if they wanted any, but I guess you can come too, Owen.

Owen: …Are they filled with sweet viscera?

Cain: Viscera… Well, there's no custard cream, but there is whipped cream, fresh fruit, chocolate cream, and that stuff made by boiling apples.

Owen: It's called compote. …Hmph, well, I guess I don't need this after all.

Akira: Huh… Eep! Hey, don't throw it, what if I couldn't catch it and it fell…

Owen: Bye-bye.

Cain: Woah! He vanished… Good grief, he really just does whatever he wants, huh.

Cain shrugged. He looked a little frustrated, but he was still acting casual about it all. The two of them had a lot of history together, but the fact that things hadn't turned fatal was all thanks to Cain's natural personality.

Akira: (It's sort of like he's saying that he wants them to start over fresh. Even though surely there's parts of that history that stick with him, he's just accepted it and kept moving forward…)

Cain: Let's go eat, too. If we don't hurry, he's going to eat all the sweet stuff before we can have any.

Akira: Ah, okay! Yes!

I followed after him, admiration for his way of life warm in my heart.

✦✧☾✧✦

A few days later…

Akira: (I'm getting hungry. I wonder if there's any snacks in the kitchen…hmm? I can smell something tasty from outside…)

Cain: Oh, Master Sage. I haven't seen you since this morning.

Akira: Oh, Cain! Good afternoon.

Cain walked into the hall with a paper bag in his arms, which was perfuming the air with the smell of butter and sugar.

Akira: Did you go shopping?

Cain: Yeah, I had some stuff to do near the marketplace, so I got some financiers to bring back. Want one?

Akira: Yay, thank you!

Cain: Let's go find Riquet and eat with him. He's usually…in the common room with Mitile around this time of day. Hold on, I'll go get them. …Wait, that's right. I still need to do something about the new one…

Akira: New one what?

Cain: Right, so, I actually ended up buying so much that the shopkeep gave me one of a brand-new flavor as a little bonus. But there's exactly one of them, so I'm kinda worried about people arguing about who gets to eat it. Arguing over snacks would suck.

Akira: Yeah, I get it. Well, since you were the one who bought them, I think you should--

But right as I started to say that, my stomach decided to make its irritation with its emptiness known and cut me off with a very embarrassing growl.

Akira: (I… I'm so embarrassed!! That was as loud as Oz's thunderstorms…!)

Cain: Ahaha! Sounds like you're feeling lively.

Akira: I--I'm so sorry!

Cain: What are you apologizing for? Here, say ahh.

Akira: Huh? Ahh…mmph!

I just opened my mouth without really thinking about it, and Cain pulled a financier out of the bag and popped it into my mouth. I snapped my mouth shut in surprise, biting into the sweet treat, and taste of butter filled my mouth.

Akira: Munch munch… That was so good!

Cain: Right? That was the new one. It was made with seasonal fruits. Pretty decadent, huh?

Akira: Huh?! I can't believe you gave me something so valuable just because my belly rumbled…

Cain: You don't need to get all worked up about it. If anything, it's good that I got to give it to you before anyone else got one. Now no one's gonna argue over who gets to have it. Everyone else will have the chance to go out and get one of their own, anyways. …Oh, Akira, hold on a second.

Cain brought his hand up to my cheek, an airy, careless gesture. The look of care in his eyes as he drew near, the feeling of the pad of his thumb brushing over my lips… It was hard to describe how they made me feel.

Cain: Haha. You had some crumbs on your mouth.

Akira: I…I'm sorry. Thank you.

Cain: What's your face getting all red for? Embarrassed?

Cain smiled his ever-charming smile. I felt the warmth of the summer sun blooming in my chest.

Akira: (Cain's kind, carefree nature is something I've been relying on since the very first day I arrived here.) (Ah… Yes, that's it.) Um, Cain, your birthday's coming up soon, right?

Cain: Oh, yeah. Something up?

Akira: The thing is, I…wanted to take you to the Orchestrion of Respite as a thank-you for everything you do. Would that be okay?

Cain: Of course, I'd be happy to go! Arthur told me about it a while back and I've been kinda interested ever since. I'll be looking forward to it, Master Sage.

Akira: …! Of course!

And I meant it with all my heart. I smiled and walked with an extra spring in my step--that day couldn't come soon enough.

✦✧☾✧✦

And finally, it was Cain's birthday.

Akira: Are you ready?

Cain: Yep.

Cain nodded, clad in the outfit that Chloe had made especially for today. It made him look a little more classy…a little more formal than usual.

Akira: (Alright…) (I wish for Cain, so compassionate as to let bygones be bygones, so kind as to shine light into the hearts of others, to feel the same peace he grants to others.)

I squeezed my eyes shut and directed all the emotions in my heart into the music box in my hands. And then, the lid silently opened… On the stage within, a little doll that looked just like Cain began to dance, pirouetting in place. It took only moments before I could hear the sound of music, at first gentle, like a far off wave lapping against the metaphorical shore we stood upon-- And then, a dazzling light embraced us.

✦✧☾✧✦

Cain: So this is the Orchestrion of Respite… All the greenery smells great. This is a nice place.

The light dimmed, and we found ourselves in a wondrous location. Transparent instruments, as though they were soap bubbles or made of glass, floated jubilantly through the air as sunlight filtered through the leaves above, gently illuminating the area.

Cain: What song is this? Obviously I can't see them, but is there an orchestra here, too?

Akira: Nope! It's all part of the magic, or so I was told. It's set up so that the person invited inside has a perfectly fitting song playing for them!

Cain: I see. Well, just standing here listening to it is making me want to gallivanting around in armor, so I'd say I like it. It's a good song.

Akira: I'm so happy to hear that. Alright, now come this way.

His smile had put a spring in my step, so I got there before he did. It didn't take long for him to join me at the edge of a small plaza that had low tables around the edges.

Cain: Freshly fried bacon, alcohol, juice… Were you the one who came up with all this?

Akira: Yes. I figured that knowing you, you'd want this to be a place where you could dance, so…here's a wide-open space to dance in, and snacks and stuff for when you want to rest.

Cain: Haha. You know me so well. Well then, let me take you up on that. Shall we dance, Akira?

Akira: Yes!

I nodded eagerly, and with one hand Cain took one of mine, and the other he placed on the small of my back. His mismatched eyes sparkled with hidden mischief.

Akira: Wahh…!

Cain: My fair Akira. Have you had the chance to dance a waltz before?

Akira: U--umm, I wouldn't say I'm good at it, but I know the basic steps, at least…

Cain: I couldn't ask for more. We're all alone here--let's dance however we want together. Now, let us take to the floor.

Keeping his hand on my back, Cain led me out into the clearing--a knight escorting his partner. At first it felt like we were just walking together, but soon enough I realized that I'd completely fallen in step with Cain. We were dancing together. I let myself get lost in his lead, laughing happily as we danced and twirled. All of my anxiety about if I could dance well had evaporated.

Akira: Happy birthday, Cain. And also, thank you for everything. You've been looking after me ever since the day I first arrived in this world.

Cain: Hey now, I should be the one thanking you. Thank you for keeping all of us together. I feel like if the new Sage was anyone but you, the twenty-two of us wouldn't all be living together in the manor the way we are now. Even if we did still end up living together, if it was because we were ordered to, or because someone was forcing us…we definitely wouldn't have the life together that we have now.

Akira: Th-that's giving me too much credit…

Or so I said, but Cain looked directly into my eyes.

Cain: It's because you're you, Akira. It's because of your kindness, your sincerity, and your fair and impartial judgment that all of us are together the way we are now. Certainly, unpleasant things have happened, and there have been times when I've just had to grin and bear it. But we've been able to talk things out, argue constructively, and the next day we all still want to stay here, together. You're an amazing person.

Akira: …I…

I didn't even know what to say. I just bashfully looked down at the stones under our feet. The weight of these words, coming from the person who had always been at my side…was so gentle that I wanted to cry. Today was his birthday, but I was the one who was being celebrated.

Cain: Getting to have you all to myself today has made this the best birthday I've ever had. Thank you for giving me such a luxury.

Akira: …I need to thank you too, for letting me spend today with you when everyone else loves you, too.

My chest burned with the heat of how grateful I was to have this irreplaceable moment with him--so I said the magic words one more time.

Akira: Happy birthday, Cain.

Training Episode: Until the Day I Pull the Cork

Akira: Good morning, Cain!

Cain: Oh, Master Sage. Good morning. Thanks for yesterday. Our party in the Orchestrion was tons of fun.

Akira: Oh no, thank you! It was your birthday, but I ended up feeling like I was being celebrated right alongside you. Right, speaking of, after the party everyone else from Central Country gave you a present, right?

Cain: Yeah, a bottle of liquor I really like. Apparently Oz remembered me saying how much I liked it every time I had the chance to drink it in Shylock's bar. Arthur was the one who actually acquired it, and Riquet made some prayers over it.

Akira: It's a present that has all their feelings wrapped up in it! The flavor must be extra special now.

Cain: Well actually, I haven't drank it yet. I know I'd just down the whole thing in one go, so I'm exercising my self-control instead.

Akira: Ahaha, I get you. I think keeping good care of it until you feel like the time is right is good, too.

Cain: Oh, I know. Maybe I'll put it up on display in my room with my memories of yesterday… Maybe I'll wait to open it 'til Riquet's had his first taste of alcohol.

Akira: Oh…! That sounds like a lovely idea!

Cain: Right? We could turn it into a whole thing and have an uncorking party with everyone under a big banner or something!

Akira: In that case, I'll have to make some extra special snacks for the occasion. If you don't mind me joining in, of course!

Cain: Of course you can! Ahaha, even though it's gonna be a long wait from now 'til then!

[cainluvr69]

"The Young Wolf's Eyes Stay Fixed on the Dawn" Cain SSR Card Story - The Greatest Blessing

OF NOTE: There is a little popup before this card story saying it contains spoilers for the associated event, so watch out! (I haven't read the event either yet, so there's a non-zero chance this translation is getting updated once I have!)

✦✧☾✧✦

Cain: So this is where the Wandering Lamentation's…where Renard's remains were found?

Arthur: Yes, where those flowers are. It's an offering.

Now that the Wandering Lamentation's curse had subsided, Cain, Arthur, and I ventured into the forest outside the crumbling city walls.

Akira: (We came out here thinking we could find a memento of Rhody's brother for him, but…)

Cain: The grass is so thick it's hard to see anything. Let me try using magic to look for it.

Arthur: Yes, please do.

Cain: <Gladius Procella> …I think I can feel something from over there. Let's move, guys.

Akira: Okay!

Arthur: Yes, let's!

✦✧☾✧✦

Cain: I felt something right around here. I'm pretty sure it wasn't underground, but on the surface…

Arthur: …Oh! Cain, Master Sage, look over there. There's something stuck in the trunk of that tree.

Akira: Oh, there is! It's…what is that? It looks like a rusty metal pole or something…?

Cain: It's a dagger. It looks like it's a matching set with the sword Renard's ghost was weilding.

Akira: A dagger? I wonder why it's stuck in a tree…ah…

Arthur: …I imagine he also drew that dagger while under attack. It must have been thrown from his hand during the battle.

Cain: Yeah… I think I can pull it out with my magic, so lemme give it a shot.

Cain extended his hand in the direction of the dagger. As if that gesture were one of invitation, the dagger plucked itself from the tree trunk and floated through the air before carefully lowering itself into his palm.

Cain: …And done.

Akira: Thank you!

Arthur: My… Now that I've gotten a better look at it, this rust is a touch extreme, isn't it.

Akira: It really is… Maybe we could clean it up a little bit before taking it back to Rhody? It's not like I know much about blade maintenance, but maybe we could wash it or something…?

Cain: Not washing it, but giving it some proper attention. I do know my way around how to take care of a blade for everyday use. Mind letting me try my hand at it once we get back to town?

Akira: Of course! Please do, Cain.

✦✧☾✧✦

Arthur: Here's some water, Cain.

Akira: I brought a bunch of thin rags, too. Is this enough?

Cain: Perfect. Thanks, both of you.

After we explained the situation, the tavern master gladly lent us a table to use to use. There was a couple small bottles and a whetstone sitting lined up on top of a table sized for four people to sit around.

Cain: Alright. Time to take a crack at this.

Cain began his work with a careful and conscientious hand. He used a powder, stone, and oil, none of which I knew the proper names of, spreading the powder and oil on the blade and then scraping it off, sharpening the edge, over and over. At first it didn't seem like he was having any effect on the rust that pitted the blade, but soon enough, I started to see it begin to flake away.

Akira: Oh…! Right here you've totally taken off the rust! I can see the color of the metal again!

Arthur: It's true! Thank goodness…! Wonderful work as always, Cain.

Cain: Thanks. I had the ins and outs of the proper technique drilled into me all the way back when I was still a page in the Knights. Alright, let's do one last round of sharpening and polish it with oil, aaaand… Here, what do you think? I cleaned it up pretty well, yeah?

Arthur: Oh my…! Amazing, it looks brand-new!

Akira: It's sparkling! …And… (…The blade is a lot smaller than I thought it would be…)

Perhaps it was simply the natural result of removing the rust, but it was a lot easier to see how small it was now that I took another close look at it. It was about the size that a little kid could comfortably grasp it--definitely not something that looked like it could stand up to the cruelty of the people who had attacked Renard in the first place.

Arthur: …He was a very brave boy. So brave as to warrant one of his opponents knocking this blade so far out of his hand it got stuck up a tree.

Akira: But he still turned into a monster, lingering for more than a decade…

My chest ached as I stared at the stone floor underfoot. But as my gaze lowered, Cain raised his head, holding the dagger up. I saw him squint his eyes a bit, as if he were looking at something dazzlingly bright.

Cain: …This might sound kinda weird, but… I admire Renard, up to and including the fact that he turned into a monster.

Akira: You…do?

Cain: Yep. He unflinchingly faced up to opponents much stronger than him, putting his life on the line for the person most important to him. And when he died and became a monster, he still wanted nothing more than for that person--his little brother--to be safe. Neither of those are the kind of thing the average guy off the street could do.

Cain smiled at the dagger in his hand. His expression was equal parts admiring and mournful.

Cain: Renard was a wonderful knight, even if he didn't have the title of one.

Arthur: …Yes. You're absolutely right. As wonderful a knight as you are today, Cain--the greatest in all the country.

Cain: …!

✦✧☾✧✦

Cain: …Thank you for the kind words, Prince Arthur.

Arthur: Please don't try to brush it off like that. I'm only speaking the truth.

Cain: But I mean, your words deserve that kind of humility. Because to me…no, to every single knight in the country, they're the greatest blessing you could bestow. I am so grateful that even though I'm no longer part of the order, even though my title has been stripped away, I can still be your knight.

Cain fell to one knee in a proud and reverent bow. I thought that Arthur would tell him to rise, the way he always did, but not this time. Instead, he put a kind hand on Cain's shoulder. This sight, within a tavern that still held the lingering scent of violence and fear and suffering, was that of a sun-dappled painting on a museum wall.

Cain: …

Cain said nothing, but offered the dagger up to Arthur. And Arthur, already knowing what he had to do, accepted it.

Arthur: …O, brave knight. Your efforts have protected the life of a single one of my countrymen. I thank you. Please, rest peacefully.

The dagger's blade caught the light streaming through a window. It was radiant. Cain spread a clean piece of cloth and carefully took the blade back from Arthur.

Cain: …And now we're done. I'll hold onto this until everything finishes settling down and we can take this to Rhody.

Arthur: Of course. I'm sure Renard would be most pleased with you of all people carrying it.

Akira: I agree. Cain's like a brother-in-arms for him, after all.

Cain: Yeah.

Cain nodded, preparing to wrap the dagger in the fabric, abruptly snapped his head back up. He looked at Arthur…and then, at me. And then he looked down at the blade again, carefully wrapping it up. I heard the murmuring of a prayer being folded into the package in his hands.

Cain: Even if your body has turned to ash. Even if you're nothing more than the soul that's left behind. May you always stay at the side of the one you wish to protect…

I could've sworn I saw a flicker of light on the dagger's blade as he spoke. It was, perhaps, a nod of agreement from someone just as strong of heart, as proud and unyielding.

Training Episode - The Journey to Joining

Akira: Are there a lot of people who travel to one of the Knights' forts to become one?

Cain: Yep. There were a couple of my seniors who'd done exactly that, actually. When I was still a brat, I'd go around begging them to tell me what their journeys were like. I sure heard a bunch of wild stories from that.

Akira: Woah! Like what?

Cain: Like how they took down a bear bigger than a house, or how they got attacked while making camp, that kind of thing. The ones about turning the tables on someone who tried to rob them in the night got me every time.

Akira: Huh?! That makes it sound like you'd need more lives than a cat just to become a knight in the first place!

Cain: I mean, I'm pretty sure most of them were bullshit. They were usually drunk when telling them, and when they sobered up, they acted like they didn't know what I was talking about when I asked.

Akira: (Wow, that's all it takes to make my belief crumble…)

Cain: But no matter what kind of journey they took, they were still so dead-set on becoming a knight that they made that journey in the first place. They were all strong enough to make me think, hey, maybe they really did go through all the crazy stuff they told me about. I hated losing to them, though.

Akira: Woah, and that's coming from the Town of Glory's number one shining star. It's unbelievable to think that you ever lost…

Cain: Ahaha! Of course I did. Losing just made me even stronger. Strong enough to beat 'em all the next time I challenged them. If I can beat guys who took down bears the sizes of houses or monsters of bandits in the night, then…doesn't that also sound like a path to strength?

Akira: (He sounds exactly like the protagonist of a sports manga! So cool…!)

[cainluvr69]

"A Perfect Star Decoration...?" Cain R Story - It's Quick, It's Easy, It's Free: Cleaning Up with Magic

Cain: <Gladius Procella> Mm, doesn't look like it's here, either.

Akira: Yeah… Sorry for making you go out of your way to help me look for it.

Cain: What, no, it's fine. I'd just been practicing my item-finding magic, so you had great timing, actually. You said you lost your fountain pen, right?

Akira: Yes. I think I must've dropped it when I came to hang out in your room yesterday. Today was such a lovely experience that I wanted to write about it in the Sage's Manual, so I hope we can find it…

Cain: Then let's keep poking around a little more. Let's see, yesterday you came to my room and sat on the sofa there… …Oh. <Gladius Procella>!

Akira: Oh, my fountain pen…! I guess it found its way onto that shelf.

Cain: Yep. Before I went out this morning, I was using my magic to tidy things up around there, and… I guess your pen got caught up in everything else while I was shoving it all in there.

Akira: I see! Thank you for finding it for me. …Huh? Where'd this sock come from? I swear it wasn't there a second ago…

Cain: Whoops, sorry! I guess it got pulled off the shelf, too.

Akira: Ahaha, don't worry about it. I've had the same thing happen when I wasn't being super careful with how I was cleaning. Plus, the pattern on this sock is really cute!

Cain: C'mon, now you're just teasing me.

[cainluvr69]

I'm still a little confused, what happened to Nova and the others after main story 2? Does it just end like that or is there more to their story?

well, given what happened in 22.11, we're presumably going to be seeing more of him in the next major story arc! a lot of things have been set up in ms2 both in terms of direct character conflict and world politics, and both of those (esp the political worldbuilding) did need a solid bit of time to properly set up... it might be better to think of ms2 as a "rising action" arc rather than anything close to a denouement!

or if you're asking me where ms3 is: your guess is as good as mine

[cainluvr69]

Thank you so much for the 3rd anniv translation! I would read it wholeheartedly and stay up all night!

thank you so much for reading!!!! i hope you enjoy it!!!!

[cainluvr69]

do you allow your translations to be used in twitter quote bots?

yeah, no problem! my translations are for the people

[cainluvr69]

3rd Anniversary Event - Let Me Tell You The Story Of A Rainbow

huge thanks to my qcer, captain, for embarking on another anni event with me!

this story has themes of child abuse and suicide. while these are not new themes in mhyk, this is, i believe, the first time they're being applied to a child who is still a child (i read her at about 8-12 years old) when the story takes place, as opposed to in flashbacks that happened centuries ago. the subject of child abuse is presented in flashback, but more in-depth than chloe or owen's flashbacks have been. the subject of suicide is one of the main plot elements of the story. if you wish to skip the chapter that talks about this most explicitly, with the main cast wizards trying to talk her down from what is presented as effectively killing herself, skip chapter 23. please read responsibly, or, if you're not sure if the subject matter will be presented in a way you can handle, ask a friend to read through it first for you.

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 Chapter 23 Chapter 24 Chapter 25 Chapter 26

[cainluvr69]

Let Me Tell You The Story Of A Rainbow - Chapter 26

Previous Chapter

Mithra: …So, what's her newly finished book about? Given how much assistance we gave her, surely it's the best and most powerful story ever written, yes?

Rutile: It's the tale of a girl who shut herself away within the shell of an egg, and a human, a wizard, and rare magical beasts.

Arthur: The girl lives her life in quiet solitude within the egg's shell as the human very earnestly tells her about how wonderful the world outside is.

Shylock: At the same time, a capricious wizard tries to beckon her out by inviting her to watch a rain of sugar fall from the sky. An adorable little invitation, in my opinion.

Murr: Oho? Do you wanna get an invitation like that too, Shylock?

Shylock: Fufu. That would depend on how I feel the day it's made.

Nero: But anyways, the girl still doesn't really wanna leave after all that. Pullin' herself out when she already locked herself away would be a pain, and she doesn't wanna deal with dealin' with other people, either.

Riquet: Stepping into a completely unknown world…is a bit scary, isn't it. She'd have to face temptations she's never seen before that she wouldn't have to deal with inside her egg. I can understand why she'd hesitate.

Chloe: I get it, too. I still get scared that people I'm meeting for the first time are gonna hate me… It makes me freeze up.

Mitile: But even though it's scary, I'd still want to at least take a peek… But anxiety and excitement can feel so similar it's hard to tell which is which, or even which one you wanna feel.

Faust: Fear and fascination are closely intertwined. The lightest breeze can tip the heart's scales in either direction.

Shino: I bet she'd wanna break her shell if she found herself somewhere that taught her about a whole new kind of world.

Heathcliff: That was how it worked for me, too… If I'd never met Shino, my world would be so much smaller than it is today.

Shino: That's my line. I'm glad I met you, Heath. I can do anything if it's for you. Feel free to order me around whenever you want.

Heathcliff: …You really never change, Shino. I'm just glad you didn't push yourself too much during all this.

Shino: Living up to my master's faith in me is a no-brainer. After all, I'm your servant.

Lennox: But there's more outside the egg than pleasant breezes on warm, sunny days. There are people out there who might break the shell protecting her just to see what would happen if they did. The girl's friends, a number of magical creatures, were desperate to keep her egg safe.

Snow: But alas, the egg was getting colder and colder.

White: Within its shell, the girl didn't even know what she was so scared of--but as she grew colder and colder, she grew closer to falling asleep, into an endless reverie.

Bradley: But then she heard someone say, "Just leave everythin' to me." A hero--no, a savior had arrived on the scene…!

Rustica: The man who had spoken to her gently took her egg into his arms. It began to warm up again in his kind embrace.

Figaro: And so, her time had finally come.

Cain: The girl had faced everyone's emotions while still inside the egg's shell, and she was finally able to screw up the determination she needed to break it.

Owen: What, so as soon as she left for the world outside, she found someone new to be her friend? That's way too convenient.

Cain: Y'think so? I'm sure it's happened somewhere in the world at some point.

Akira: Wow… It's a little bit odd and kind of out there, but it's still a wonderful fairytale of a book.

I looked up at Mithra while I spoke, only to see him yawn.

Akira: …Umm, were you listening?

Mithra: …It was so long that I stopped paying attention partway through.

Oz: Then why did you bother asking in the first place?

Mithra: There's always a point in asking. For instance, I remember there's an egg in it. Eggs are good. You can fry them or boil them and they're good either way.

White: Well, I guess that's a gold star for effort coming from Mithra. And weren't the rest of us a lot more in unison than usual?

Snow: Everyone else also gets a gold star for exemplary coordination.

Cain: I sure never would've expected the day we'd all talk about a picture book as a group to come even in a million years.

Just then, there was a swell of applause from the Luca's exhibit. And that applause? For none other than Luca and Aslan. Luca seemed a bit embarrassed, squeezing Aslan's hand and hiding a little bit behind him.

Akira: I'm glad Miss Luca's feeling better now. We should go say hi at some point.

Rutile: Absolutely. Hehe, Mister Aslan looks happy, too.

Expo Attendee: …Hey, don't those people over there look just like the wizards in that picture book?

That single comment was all it took for every pair of eyes in the hallway to turn to us. I'm also going to go out on a limb and say that seeing a big group of wizards in matching outfits was the kind of thing that stood out in a crowd.

Expo Attendee: Hey, do you think those are the Sage's wizards? The ones that saved the country?

Expo Attendee: Oh, you're right! I recognize some of them from the parade.

Having heard them, Heathcliff had been about to duck into a corner to stay out of sight, but Shino dragged him back out into view. All Heathcliff could do now was smile awkwardly at the crowd. Figaro leaned his back against one wall, keeping a protective eye on Mitile and Chloe as they waved at the onlookers, a little bit shyly. Arthur and Cain, both used to this kind of thing, gave everyone who called out to them a handshake. I heard a familiar pair of voices go "Kyakya!" and looked over my shoulder to see Snow and White happily grinning and giggling and skipping as they received candy from other attendees. Mithra, Bradley, and Owen were ignoring the gazes turned on them and staring disinterestedly at the artworks on display, but I saw their eyebrows furrowed. Nearby, a group of women squealed in delight--I had a feeling Shylock or Rustica must've sent a refined smile and a wink their direction. Riquet--his back straight, his smile perfect--must've put some pressure on Nero, because I saw him dutifully waving to the crowd, too. Faust, on the other hand, had his back to them, fully intent on avoiding all contact with gawkers as he focused his attention on a nearby exhibit. Lennox was also there, ever at Faust's side. As for Oz… As dignified as he was, I had a feeling he hadn't even realized people were staring at him. I cast my gaze over them all, my chest swelling with pride.

Rutile: What is it, Master Sage? Did you see something good?

My hands snapped up to my cheeks on reflex, trying to cover up my expression. I must've been grinning like a cat in front of cream.

Akira: …I'm just feeling so proud of everyone. I'm so, so, sooooooo happy right now.

My words made Rutile's eyes go wide.

Akira: (Maybe I got a little too into those sos…)

Rutile: Hehe! Hearing you say that is making me happy, too. You know we're very proud of you too, right, Master Sage?

Akira: Gosh, that feels like a bit much. But I'm glad that my happiness is…infectious, I guess?

Rutile: It sure is!

Here they were--the Sage's wizards. They had saved this world, certainly. But they'd saved the world that lay between the pages of a magical picture book and the little girl who had written it. I was so proud of them--my wizards. I stood a little bit better, a little bit straighter. My shoulders were back, my spine was straight, and it just felt so nice to feel so much pride filling my chest.

Akira: …Hmm? By the way, where did Murr get off to?

Normally he would've loved to hype up a crowd like this one, but I didn't see him anywhere.

Shylock: I believe he said he's playing hide-and-seek.

Akira: What?

Chloe: You're kidding! Since when?!

Akira: Like, you mean, he's hiding somewhere in the exhibition hall?

Shino: If he's gonna start running a game like that, he should at least give us a heads-up first.

Heathcliff: This place is…pretty big, too…

Oz: It is far safer to play here than in the Northern mountains. There is no risk of freezing to death here.

Akira: …Arthur, did you try to play hide-and-seek in the mountains?

Arthur: Yes, I did. That was a long time ago, however. I wanted to surprise Lord Oz, so I hid first, without saying anything. Unfortunately, I proved so difficult to find that I almost froze solid. He got very upset with me about it. What a joy to think back on.

Faust: Just how many episodes of mischief did you have as a child…?

Arthur: Ahaha. I'm flattered to hear that in some aspects, I think the same way the peerless philosopher Murr does.

Cain: Huh? Heyyyy, Owen? That's weird, he was just right here.

Rutile: Mithra? Miiithraaa! Hmm… I don't see him anywhere, either.

Chloe: Oh no, Rustica's missing, too…

Shylock: My oh my. I didn't realize they enjoyed hide-and-seek so much.

Lennox: I've never really put much thought into if I enjoy it or not, but I'm better at seeking than at hiding. I've gotten a lot of practice finding stray sheep.

Shino: Is that right? What's the trick to finding them?

Lennox: Keep looking until you find them.

Elderly Gentleman: Good day to you all! It's wonderful to see you all together again. Thank you so much for everything you've done. The party will be starting shortly. I do hope you all enjoy yourselves.

I heard Mitile and Riquet's excited voices from…one of the floors below us. When I peeked over the bannister to see where they were, I saw the twins, hand in hand, skipping down the hall together. The current of people from the picture book display was making its way to the party hall, too.

Bradley: Well I, for one, am ready to freakin' eat already. Let the idiots who wanna hide, hide. Whatever.

Nero: Yeah, might as well. It's gonna be annoying if they go gripin' that we made 'em miss a meal 'cause we didn't go lookin' for 'em, though.

Akira: Well, they're just all following their own whimsy. Maybe if we play the seeker part badly enough, playtime will be over with just hide-and-seek…

Figaro: Sure, why not? Let's play with them. Hide-and-seek, I mean. It's been a hot second since we've all been in one place together, and it's totally possible to play while partying at the same time.

Rutile: Yes, let's! It's be a waste to just ignore the chance to eat a feast as lavish as this one. And because… Because all twenty-one of the Sage's wizards are here, just the way I was hoping we would be. So I want to have as much fun as I can with everyone today!

I felt a gentle breeze, one tinged with the floral scent of incense, sweep through my heart. It made me feel cozy and warm from the inside out.

Shylock: Well then, shall we be off? We have some lost lambs to find.

Akira: Yeah!

I heard my wizards gripe and complain and then scatter like petals through the halls. They might've tried to hide it, but I saw them grinning and having fun despite themselves. Then out of nowhere, I thought I felt someone tug on my hair from behind. I whirled around on the spot. But all I found was a cheery cacophony of happy voices echoing through the otherwise silent halls of the venue. It seemed the party had already started. I noticed that Luca's newly finished picture book was open to some part in the middle, so I stepped over and quietly closed it. You know, there's a story I want to write, too. I suppose I'm already writing it in the Sage's Manual. It's the story of the simple, unremarkable, everyday life I live alongside my wizards, and the salvation of this world. I wanted to write it, illustrate it, and bind it in a book, the same way Luca did with hers. The same way Luca's books proved she existed, my story will prove that my wizards existed, too. Maybe it's destined to never be a happy fairytale, but it's not yet time for the air to be perfumed with the beautiful yet painful aroma of farewells. I'm sure that one day, it'll be a story that you'll love.

Akira: (I'm so grateful I got to meet this picture book and the story inside of it.) Thank you… (…for letting me meet you.)

I could have sworn I heard the faint ringing of bells, somewhere just on the outside edge of my hearing. I looked down at the book, at the title inscribed in Luca's delicate penmanship on the cover, gleaming with rainbow light. The title was the words that fell from Luca's mouth as she finished her book, the beautiful words that had sounded like a prayer to me. I turned them over in my mind one more time. "Let me tell you the story of a rainbow."