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(A World Brimming with Friends) Faust SSR Card Story Translation

The Legend of Candy - Episode 1

Cinnamoroll: I'm so happy we get to come here again. I wanted to see everyone again!

One day, Cinnamoroll and his friends suddenly gained the ability to use magic, and used it to come to our world.

Akira: We've also been wanting to see Cinnamoroll and everybody again, so we're really happy...!

Faust: Nero also let out a very pathetic voice when he saw Cinnamoroll again.

Cinnamoroll: And you, Professor Faust? Are you happy to see me again?

Faust: …..Well, yes. I'm happy.

Cinnamoroll: Yay!

Akira: Since we've had the great opportunity to meet you again, Cinnamoroll, I want to show you around the world and have you enjoy yourself.

Akira: Do you have any requests?

Cinnamoroll: Yeah. There are places I'd like to go.

Cinnamoroll: A wonderful restaurant, a stylish cafe, places like that.♪

Faust: Right, Cinnamoroll, I remember you said before that you were opening a cafe at Puroland.

Cinnamoroll: Professor Faust, you remembered. I'm so happy♪

Faust: …..Ado…..

Akira: So adorable...

His tail swayed cutely, and we both couldn't help but be moved by the cuteness. No matter how many times we see it, it's still so adorable.

Akira: ... Oh, speaking of cafes, Cain told me the other day that there's a popular cafe in the city of glory.

Akira: the bread there, made with lots of cinnamon and raisins, is extremely popular, and apparently it's flooded with customers every day.

Cinnamoroll: Wow, that sounds delicious! I love the smell of cinnamon♪ I'd like to try it♪

Faust: A cafe... And in the city of glory too...

Akira: (Right, Faust doesn't like crowded places, so he might not want to go…)

Cinnamoroll: Professor Faust, would you take me to the cafe?

Faust: …… Oh well��� If you want to, then let's go.

(scene change to the cafe)

Cinnamoroll: So many customers!

Akira: That's a popular restaurant alright, it's bustling.

Faust: Looks like a seat just opened up.

Cinnamoroll The smell inside the restaurant is so amazing♪ I'm getting hungry.

Akira: Hahaha. The smell of baking bread does make you hungry. Cinnamoroll, what would you like to order?

Cinnamoroll: I'd like bread with lots of cinnamon and raisins, and some milk.♪

Akira: What would you like, Faust?

Faust: I'll have that bread and some coffee too.

Akira: Then I'll have that too. Excuse me. I'd like to order please.

The Legend of Candy - Episode 2

Waiter: My apologies. There's only one cinnamon and raisin bread left today...

Faust: Then I'll get something else.

Akira: I'll also change to a different bread.

Cinnamoroll: Eh? Is it okay for me to be the one to eat it?

Faust: We can eat it whenever we want, but that isn't the case for you.

Faust: Don't worry about us, Cinnamoroll, you should be the one to eat the cinnamon and raisin bread.

Cinnamoroll: Thank you♪ You two are so kind! I'm so happy♪

Cinnamoroll hopped up and down on his chair.

Cinnamoroll: Cinnamon and raisin bread~. I'm looking forward to it so much♪

While we were being charmed by Cinnamoroll's joyful appearance, the order was brought out.

Cinnamoroll: It's round and looks delicious♪ And it's really big too!

Faust: It's surprisingly filling.

Akira: The size may also be one of the reasons it's popular. Wow, it's warm, like it was just baked… Let's eat it before it gets cold!

Cinnamoroll: Let's eat♪

Cinnamoroll: ......here we go. Huh?

Cinnamoroll was struggling to cut up a big loaf of bread.

Cinnamoroll: Those are bigger than the knife and fork I usually use, so I can't use it properly.

Faust: Give it to me.

Faust gently takes the knife and fork from Cinnamoroll's hand.

Cinnamoroll: Hehe, thank you. Could you cut it into three?

Faust carefully cuts the bread, round like a full moon, into three pieces.

Cinnamoroll: Thank you for cutting it so well♪

Akira: Isn't this great, Cinnamoroll.

Cinnamoroll: Yes! Now I'll give this piece and this one to Professor Faust and Master Sage♪

Akira: Eh, are you sure?

Faust: But this is for you...

Cinnamoroll: If we all eat it together, it'll definitely taste even better!

Akira: Cinnamoroll… Yes, you're right. Thank you.

Faust: I'll be grateful as well. In return, I'll cut my bread into three equal parts.

Akira: I'll cut my bread into pieces too! Let's all share and eat it together.

Cinnamoroll: Yay! Now we're three times happier!

(after some time)

Akira: Ah, it was all so delicious... It really was full of cinnamon and raisins.

Faust: I can see why it's so popular.

Akira: The other breads were delicious too. Would you like a refill for your drink?

Faust: I'm fine. Cinnamoroll, what about you...

Akira: Cinnamoroll?

Cinnamoroll: I'm so full… I'm starting to…. feel sleepy...

Cinnamoroll crawled on Faust's lap adorably and closed his eyes.

Akira: ...He's fallen asleep.

Faust: Yeah. He must be satisfied.

Cinnamoroll: ...Mmm…. Pet me….

Akira: ...Was that a sleep-talk?

Faust: Oh for...

Even though he was grumbling, the way he stroked Cinnamoroll was very gentle.

The Legend of Candy - Episode 3

After we left the cafe, Cinnamoroll used magic and invited Faust and I to Puroland to thank us for today.

The mood was a little gloomier than before.

Faust: It feels a bit different from the last time we came here...

Akira: That's because of the Halloween-like decorations.

Faust: Ah, the event from your world. Well...This kind of atmosphere isn't bad either.

Cinnamoroll: Professor Faust, Master Sage, how do you feel about compatibility fortune telling?

Akira: A compatibility fortune telling?

Cinnamoroll: Yeah. I can use magic today, so I'd like to use it to read my compatibility with the two of you.

Akira: My compatibility with Cinnamoroll...! I'd love to know that. Please!

Akira: Do you want to do it too, Faust?

Cinnamoroll: Please, Professor Faust~.

Faust: ...Fine, go ahead.

Faust: So, how do you do the reading?

Cinnamoroll: It's very easy♪ Try holding my hand very tight!

Cinnamoroll: If it makes your heart race, then we're a perfect match! Pumpkin candies will rain on us!

Akira: Cinnamoroll, Even the way you read fortune is so cute...

Faust: What a smile. I can be later, so you should go ahead and do your reading first.

Cinnamoroll: Hold it very tight~♪

Akira: (I, I'm starting to feel a bit nervous...)

Feeling a little nervous, I hold Cinnamoroll's hand tightly. Then, something starts to rain down from above.

Cinnamoroll: Pumpkin candy! Yay♪ A perfect match!

Akira: Yay! I'm so happy! A perfect match with Cinnamoroll...!

Cinnamoroll: Next is Professor Faust.

Faust: …..

After hesitating for a moment, Faust took Cinnamoroll's hand.

But nothing happened.

Faust: ...Yeah, that's about right.

Sighing lightly, Faust started to let go of his hand. At that moment, pumpkin candies started raining down.

Cinnamoroll: Yay♪ me and Professor Faust are a perfect match too!

Akira: Faust...! I'm so happy for you…!

Faust: Why are you so happy?

Cinnamoroll: You see this pumpkin candy, there's actually a legend about it.

Cinnamoroll: If you lick it together, even if you're apart, your bond with that person will never be broken.

Cinnamoroll: Even after the special day is over, we'll always be together.

This time, Cinnamoroll held our hands tightly.

Faust: ... “bond will never be broken even if we're apart” huh.

Faust's profile as he muttered softly looked somehow pleased.

This time while walking around town - Card Episode

Akira: Good morning, Faust.

Faust: Good morning, sage.

Akira: Oh, today's breakfast is cinnamon bread… It reminds me of the day we went to the cafe with Cinnamoroll.

Akira: Cinnamoroll looked like he was having a lot of fun. Faust, how about you?

Faust: ……Well, it wasn't a bad time. I got to eat the famed bread too.

Akira: Did you know that cinnamon and raisin bread that was only available for a limited time, has now become a standard item and available any time.

Akira: It was so popular that it kept being sold out every day, so many people couldn't eat it.

Faust: Make sense, there was only one remaining that time too.

Akira: (I want to invite Faust to that cafe again, but I'm sure he only went along with it because Cinnamoroll was there then...)

Faust: ……Does that shop do takeout?

Akira: Oh, yes. I think so.

Faust: The crowds were annoying, but the bread tasted pretty good. I'd go again if it was takeaway.

Akira: …..! Yes, I'de love to go.

Akira: If we see Cinnamoroll again, it'd be nice to get some takeaway and eat it while walking around town.

Faust: Yeah. I'm sure he'd be happy too.

Homescreen voice line

Cinnamoroll…. I can't believe we met again. Hm? What, you want to sit on my lap? *sigh* What am I gonna do with you…. Alright, come here.

[srovtl]

(Ain't this... a Tail?) Nero R Card Story Translation

Be careful on icy roads

Akira: –Ouch!

Nero: Whoa, Sage, that's one awful way to fall. Are you okay? Here, grab on.

Akira: Ouch... my apologies. Thank you for helping me stand up.

Akira: The ground around the magic manor rarely freezes, so I'm not used to walking on ice...

Nero: In a land like this, it's only natural for anyone who isn't a northern wizard to trip. Most people who come from other places will trip at least once.

Akira: Really? Even wizards?

Nero: Really. Some people even break their bones. So, let's go and have Figaro check you for injuries, Sage.

Nero: Here, come this way. I grew up in the north, so I'm a little--Whoa!?

Nero: ….....Ouch…….

Akira: Nero!? Are you okay?

Nero: I'm okay….. my body at least……

Akira: (And the heart…?)

Nero: My bad, can't believe I fell now of all times….. So lame….

Akira: It-it's okay! Really, I don't mind. You were reliable and I am thankful for you.

Akira: Also, you know, you're an eastern wizard now! So the fact that you tripped, is like a proof? Or something like that.

Nero: Haha, you're right. In the end, I'm a guy who didn't mesh well with the north…

Nero: So maybe it's rejecting me in return… Telling me how dare you come back after all this time...

Akira: (He just fell and it's turning into such a big story…)

[srovtl]

(While brushing off the dripping dew) Figaro SR Card Story Translation

The same as before - Chapter 1

Rutile: Gulp… Yummy, This water, it tastes so good. The color is crazy though.

Figaro: Rutile. Are you drinking the lake water again?

Rutile: Yes! The color is crazy , but it's sweet and tasty, so might as well.

Figaro: I see, I'm glad you like it. It's not something you can drink in the south, so drink as much as you want.

Figaro: But Rutile, I've taught you this time and time again since you were a child. When you drink lots of water from a pond or lake…

Rutile: ……Ah! Boiling!

Figaro: Exactly. The color is crazy so it doesn't feel like normal water, but the risk of parasites and disease doesn't change.

Figaro: When you want to drink it, pour it into a cup like this and….

Figaro: 《Possideo》

Figaro: Yeah, this should be fine. Here you go, Rutile.

Rutile: Yay. Thank you!

Figaro: Make sure you blow on it before you drink it. It's pretty hot.

Rutile: Okay! Fuuu.

Rutile: Here we go.

Figaro: Hm?

The same as before - Chapter 2

Figaro: Hm? Wait, Rutile, I think you have to…

Rutile: …! Ouch!

Figaro: Aaah, I know it…! Are you okay? Did you burn your tongue?

Rutile: ……..

Rutile: …I did…. I'm sorry….

Figaro: Your voice is so quiet….  Come on, don't be so down. Show it to doctor Figaro. 

Figaro: Sit in a place where the sun shines, look up a little, open your mouth wide, a–.

Rutile: A—-......

Figaro: Great, looks like your throat didn't burn. Don't worry, I can heal a burnt tongue quickly.

Figaro: It's gonna sting for a second 《Possideo》

Rutile: Ah…. It's healed

Figaro: Great.

Figaro: Next time, make sure you let it cool properly before drinking it. Rutile, you've been impatient since you were little.

Rutile: OK, I'll be careful.

Rutile: ...Ah, right! If I put the cup on the snow, it will cool down quickly, right?

Figaro: Sure, it will cool down, but the heat will melt the snow and the cup will fall over. It's dangerous, so don't do that.

Rutile: Ah, you're right. Guess that's a no then.

Figaro: Yep. ….Hehe…..

Figaro: (Rutile was like this when he was little too. Impatient, forgets instructions, and would always act on impulse.)

Figaro: (He grew taller, and became a beloved school teacher, I thought he was all grown up but...)

Figaro: ...This part is the same as before.

Gentle memory - Card Episode

Akira: Figaro, you knew Rutile since he was a child right? 

Akira: What was he like at that age?

Figaro: I don't think he's changed much, but who knows? When you're together all the time, it's actually harder to notice changes.

Figaro: But he did play pranks and games appropriate for his age. He would wear my old white coat and play doctor.

Akira: Ooh, that sounds so cute!

Figaro: Haha. It didn't fit him so the hem and sleeves kept dragging behind him. 

Figaro: While in that outfit, when an emergency occurs, he runs off suddenly, so I kept worrying about him stepping on the hem and tripping.

Figaro: But, he was adorable. He looked more like a small ghost than a reliable doctor though. 

Akira: Ahaha. I can kind of imagine it.

Figaro: Right?

Figaro: But nowadays, he can probably wear my white coat easily,  he just has to roll up his sleeves a little.

Akira: ……..

Akira: ...Figaro, how do I put this? You are making a really good face now. It's gentle...

Figaro: Really? When you say it that directly it kinda makes me blush. But…..

Figaro: He's really grown up. That boy who used to be so small.

Homescreen voiceline

Tonight is the night for us wizards. That's why I don't want you to think about rude stuff like who you are, just forget about it and spend the night however you like. I guess this is the only request that Lord Figaro wants to make to everyone.

[srovtl]

(Overflowing Cynicism) Figaro SR Card Story Translation

A thanks to ninenseiace on twitter for the raws

A candy suitable to him - chapter 1

Figaro: All these dishes taste great. Many of them are delicacies, but they go well with alcohol. 

Rustica: I couldn't agree more, not only do they taste delicious, but their presentation is excellent too. Each dessert is like a jewel.

Rustica: Look at this candy in the glass for example, it's like an emerald.

Figaro: Ah, this candy…… How rare, this is a medical candy from the northern country.

Figaro: I remember trying it a while ago, when I was researching medical plants. This brings back memories. 

Rustica: Oh my, so it's a sweet from the northern country. No wonder, I did think it was a sweet I had never seen before.

Rustica: But Doctor Figaro, you are from the southern country so how come you have come across a northern country candy? When they are on the opposite sides of the continent…

Figaro: Aah, umm, a northern acquaintance gave it to me. I have a lot of acquaintances, You know.

Rustica: I see, to be given such a rare and beautiful candy is a testament to Doctor Figaro's good character. 

Rustica: By the way, what does this candy taste like? Will it suit my palate?

Figaro: It was pretty tasty. The bitter taste of the herbs was strangely addictive. It might not be for everyone though.

Rustica: In that case, I'll have to try it to see if it's for me. Let's have one.

Figaro: Haha, western wizards sure are a curious bunch. I might as well have one too.

Figaro: …Yup, now that's what I'm talking about. You can't tell if it's sweet or bitter, and it has a grassy smell like a leaf stuck in your mouth...

Figaro: It's been a while since I had it, but it's still as strangely addictive as ever. How about you, Rustica? Did you like it?

Rustica: ………

A candy suitable to him - chapter  2 

Rustica: ……..

Figaro: Rustica? You're standing there with a frozen smile, what's wrong...? Ah!

Figaro: It didn't suit your palate right? That's why you're frozen?

Rustica: ……

Figaro: Well, in that case, crunch the candy, and after that, swallow it with this hot chocolate. I think it will mask the strong taste and aftertaste.

Rustica: …..... Gulp…..

Rustica: Whew... Thank you for the candy. I've been able to experience a thrill I've never felt before.

Figaro: Glad you were able to swallow it. I never imagined you'd be so surprised that you'd freeze up.

Rustica: I feel the same way. When I eat that candy, I freeze up… I'm glad I discovered a new side of myself.

Rustica: But perhaps someone as young as Doctor Figaro can enjoy this thrilling flavor without freezing up.

Figaro: Young as me, huh...

Rustica: Oh! I have an idea! Why don't you take this candy as a souvenir for Rutile? At his young age, it might suit his taste.

Figaro: Ummm, nah, I'll pass. I'll just have one more piece instead.

Figaro: (Hmm, is it really bitter enough to freeze up...? It still tastes great to me…)

Figaro: Is this the ‘generation gap’ that the previous Master Sage talked about…….

What do you think about the bitter taste? - Card Episode 

Figaro: You seemed to be having a very fun conversation about sweets with Mitile earlier. Were you talking about Mia's castle from the other day?

Akira: Yes. That castle had not only sweet, but also a variety of unusual candies with unique flavors, and we were talking about how we were surprised.

Akira: What was especially memorable was the green candy that tasted a bit like medicine...

Figaro: Oh, the candy in the glass? Master Sage you also ate some. How was it?

Akira: Let's see. At first, I was a bit surprised by the unique flavor… The old cat lady… it tasted a bit like the candy that someone who looked after me in my original world gave me, so I quite liked them.

Figaro: Huh? You liked them?

Akira: What, Is that something to be surprised about? Did you perhaps not like them, Figaro...?

Figaro: No, no, sorry. I like them too.

Figaro: But I didn't think it was a flavor that young people like Master Sage would like, so it was a bit surprising.

Akira: Now that you mention it, it's true... It has a more mature feel, so maybe it's a flavor that old men and women would like?

Figaro: A flavor that old men and women would like...

Akira: Y-Yes. Um, you have a complicated look on your face...

Figaro: No no, I don't have any look like that. I look the same as always, a lively 32-year-old who's in the spotlight right now.

Figaro: Leaving any opinions aside…. I am glad Master Sage liked it.

Homescreen voiceline 

Master Sage, where are you heading to? ……To hand out chocolate to Bradley? Hmmm I don't really recommend that. It's not like I don't understand being attracted to bad guys like that, but if you're going for a bad guy, then it's way better to go with the calm and tolerant Doctor Figaro, you know?

[srovtl]

(A pic to Commemorate the New Work) Riquet R Card Translation

Professional appearance

Akira: (So this is a filming studio… Even when I'm not the one acting, I still feel nervous.)

Riquet: Listen, Akira. Please make sure to observe my work very closely and use it to improve your own acting in the future.

Akira: Y-Yes! I'll be sure to watch every detail!

Staff: Riquet-san, the filming is about to start! Be ready please.

Riquet: Okay, I'll be right away—

Akira: ( ! Oh no, Riquet's body is staggering...)

Riquet: Huh.

Akira: (Thank goodness. Looks like he's braced himself and recovered his footing.)

Akira: Riquet, are you okay? You don't look very well...

Akira: I'll ask the staff if you can take a break for now and do the shooting later.

Riquet: Thank you, Akira. But I'm fine.

Akira: Are you sure...? Alright, but don't push yourself too hard.

Riquet: Of course, I'm off then! ...Oh, right, Akira.

Akira: Huh?

Riquet: Don't take your eyes off me.

Staff: –Scene starts!

Riquet: "Even if God has abandoned you, I'll hold out my hand to you. Now, please look up.”

Akira: (Wow, the atmosphere around him changed in an instant… You couldn't tell that he's feeling unwell at all)

Akira: (As expected of Riquet… So cool)

[srovtl]

(You Call that Adorable?) Shino SR Card Story Translation

Show my ultimate dance on camera - Chapter 1

Shino: ……..

Shino: (Ugh, why doesn't my school homework include practical skills? I'm always up for anything that requires physical activity.)

Shino: (...Now that I think about it, Mitile and Cain were just talking about a dance that's been really popular on social media these days.)

Shino: Let's look it up, I think it's called…..

Shino: ………

Shino: This dance looks really fun.

Shino: But if I were to do it I'd make my movements more daring…

Figaro: Hi, Shino. Filming will resume soon. How is the progress on your homework?

Shino: Figaro, great timing. My ultimate dance has just been completed. 

Figaro: Ultimate dance? Weren't you doing homework?

Shino: This isn't the time to bother with some homework. More importantly, I need a camera.

Shino: Here, use my phone and record me.

Figaro: Record you….? Only Shino-kun would ask me to do something like that.

Shino: Really? If you don't know how to, I can teach you.

Shino:  Look, open the app, and press here to start recording.

Shino: So, for this particular dance move, move the camera like this…

Figaro: Waitwaitwait, hold on. Even I know how to record at least.

Figaro: Come on, who do you think I am? I'm Professor Figaro, a mere trendy items are no enemy of mine.

Shino: "Professor Figaro"? What?

Shino: Anyway, I'll leave the filming to you. I want to get it done quickly before I forget the dance moves, please.

Figaro: ...Alright, fine then. Come on, let's do this. Ready, go!

Show my ultimate dance on camera - Chapter 2

Shino: I'll do a turn here… Finally, a handstand on one hand--

Shino: Okay! Perfect...!

Shino: Heh, how was it? My ultimate dance move.

Figaro: That was really cool. So, can you check if I captured that ultimate dance move properly?

Shino: Oh, thank…

Shino: …….

Figaro: Oh, was it not shot properly?

Shino: No, it was. It's just that the camera work is not cool, at all.

Figaro: Eeh… But it shows your whole body clearly doesn't it?

Shino: That alone isn't enough. It lacks an impact. 

Shino: Dance videos these days have been getting more into the camerawork.

Figaro: I see, sorry. I'm not as knowledgeable about this kinda stuff as a pro like you.

Figaro: Is this what they call "Mirishira*"?

Tl note: Mirishira is a Japanese internet slang that means absolutely no information on the thing.

Shino: That's a slightly incorrect way of using it.

Shino: Anyway, like I said before, move the camera for each move so that my dancing stands out.

Figaro: Ah, that's what you meant earlier when you said "this particular dance move".

Shino: Since we're here, I'll teach you how to shoot a dance video.

Figaro: Eh, filming is about to start… Besides, you haven't finished your homework yet, have you?

Shino: Don't worry, Figaro. if it's you, I am sure you can remember it in 10 minutes.

Shino: And the homework too, with your help, we'll easily make it in time.

Figaro: Oh, I'm helping with the homework too…

A difficult request - Card episode 

Shino: Sage, are you taking a walk?

Akira: This voice... Shino? Huh, where are you?

Shino: Here.

Akira: Ohh! So you were up in the tree!

Akira: There are only tall trees around here… And you descended so easily, Shino is really light on his feet.

Akira: You know, in the dream I had the other day, Shino was dancing coolly with movements like you're doing now.

Shino: Oh yeah, you did say that in your dream, that I was good at dancing.

Shino: What kind of dance? 

Akira: There were a lot of cool dances where you moved your body boldly like you did just now, I think.

Akira: Like, you did somersaults, put one hand on the ground, kicked your foot up in the air, and did acrobatic things…

Shino: Somersaults and feet in the air… Is it something like this?

Akira: Wow, amazing! That's exactly like it!

Akira: Shino, that was awesome!

Shino: Heh, That's no big deal.

Shino: What other dances did I do? I might as well recreate everything I did in my dream.

Akira: Eh, are you sure? let's see, you also put your head on the ground and turn...

Shino: Turn with your head...?

Shino: I don't really get what that is by just words. Sage, show me an example.

Akira: Oh, an example!? That might be difficult...!

Akira: (If I tried, I'd end up having to ask Shino to carry me to Figaro…)

homescreen voice line

In your dream, I was an actor. Even with long scripts I only took about a day to remember? heh, so the so-called genius type. What else did I do? I was good at fan service? Blowing kisses to the camera…. *kiss* like this.

[srovtl]

(A Smile that Commands My Vision) Figaro SSR Card Story Translation

The future I speak of with you that I found - Chapter 1

Rustica: I thank you all for coming to the public recording of Rustica Ferch's "Amorest Viesse"

Rustica: If you had a good time, then I could not ask for more. Tonight's hosts are me, Rustica, and...

Figaro: And me, Figaro Garcia as the guest. Thank you all for coming today.

Rustica: I hope we can meet again next week, my love. See you again.

Akira: (A whole hour just flew by…)

The moderate tension eases as the public recording of the radio show hosted by Rustica finishes.

On this day, Figaro took me to visit the recording with him.

Figaro: Hi. Sorry to keep you waiting, Akira.

Akira: Figaro! Thank you for your hard work.

Figaro: Now that's what I call a smile. How was it? Did you enjoy the recording?

Akira: Yes, very much. It was very valuable!

Akira: Rustica's calm but unpredictable talk was thrilling, and Figaro's quips were also fun.

Akira: Everyone in the audience seemed to be having a great time. Now that's what professional skills are all about.

Figaro: Haha, good then. You made sure to study, that's very admirable.

Figaro: Even so, I'm glad that only the audio is archived. The talk topics and challenge projects were pretty ambitious.

Rustica: But thanks to that, every segment was a big hit.

Rustica: Apparently, the charm of my radio show is the atmosphere of being unpredictable, both in terms of how things will develop and where they will land.

A little behind, Rustica also came out of the studio. He spoke with a smile as he held the script.

Figaro: Really, every time the conversation suddenly takes a completely unexpected turn. It's hard to imitate that kind of sense.

Akira: Rustica was also very eloquent. Even when the topic jumps around, he speaks smoothly with beautiful words, so it's pleasant to listen to.

Rustica: Hehe. I'm glad you enjoyed it too.

Rustica: Have you gotten used to this industry yet?

Akira: Just a little… Figaro takes me to all the sorts of locations and I learn something new every day.

Rustica: That's wonderful. If you'd like, please come to my dinner show too.

Akira: What! Are you sure?

Rustica: Of course. I'll be playing my favorite instrument, so please enjoy it along with a delicious meal.

Rustica: Oh, and next time, I'd love for you to come and visit our office. Chloe seems to be very fond of you.

Figaro: Hey there, Rustica. Your habit is creeping up again.

Akira: Whoa.

Figaro casually puts his arm around my shoulder, pulling me towards him.

Figaro: I am the one who found this child. Why are you always so quick to recruit the kids you like.

Rustica: Ahaha, my apologies, Akira-san was such a wonderful person, I too fell for them.

Rustica: Akira-san, if you don't mind, could you tell me more about yourself?

The future I speak of with you that I found - Chapter 2

Akira: About me?

Rustica: Yes. Favorite foods, colors, scenery, time…

Rustica: What are you not good at, or what interests you. Anything about you.

Figaro: Come to think of it, I haven't really heard much about that sort of thing from you.

Figaro: Well? Anything that comes to mind?

Akira: Let's see… things I like, things I don't like, I am sure I have those but…

Akira: My memories are hazy so I don't remember much.

Akira: So now, I think I am in the process of searching for it, together with Figaro. 

Rustica: Oh my.

Figaro: With me?

Akira: Yes. We eat at cafes and restaurants in between work, and take photos at photogenic spots.

Akira: Figaro takes me to all kinds of places and tells me all kinds of stories, so I see, hear, and experience a lot...

Akira: It feels like he's helping me search for myself.

As I said that, Figaro and Rustica looked at each other.

And at the same time, they burst out laughing.

Rustica: I guess this means I've been rejected?

Figaro: Ahaha, guess so. That's such a nice thing for you to say.

Figaro: You are truly a brand new child, just like an untrodden snow. Hey Akira, why don't you entrust your body and soul to me a little more?

Akira: Eh….?

Figaro invites me with a voice like a soft cotton blanket. His narrow grey and hazel* eyes stare at me.

*TL note/ it does actually say hazel I am as confused as the rest of you.

Figaro: Then, I'll be able to make you do what I want even more.

Akira: Umm…! T-That's a little bit….

I flinch, my eyes wandering.

Seeing this, Figaro laughs and moves away. He also taps my forehead with the tip of his finger.

Figaro: Just kidding. If you get embarrassed over something like this, you'll never be an actor.

Rustica: As one would expect, you're kind but strict.

Akira: Oh, that was just acting...?! It took me by surprise…

Figaro: My bad sorry, you were being such a good child I just can't help but tease you.

Figaro: But I'm also studying with you too. Didn't we go yesterday to a cafe that has the latest trendy sweets.

Akira: Ah, the one famous for its pudding shaped like a curled up cat.

Akira: It wobbles when you shake it, and is so cute that you almost feel bad for eating it. The peak form of modern dessert!

Rustica: A curled up cat pudding…

Rustica: Perhaps, is it the one Rutile was into last year?

Akira, Figaro: Eh, last year?

Figaro: No way~ It was all the rage recently, wasn't it?

Rustica: It was a while ago that it was a hot topic, but back then all the cafes were full and it was hard to get in.

Rustica: Maybe now is a better time to take your time and enjoy it. You two picked a good time to jump on the trend.

Figaro: Does that even count as jumping on it…

Akira: But it was delicious, and cute. I really like that pudding. 

Figaro: ……

Figaro: Well, alright then. 

The future I speak of with you that I found - Chapter 3

Afterwards, we said goodbye to the staff and returned to the office.

We organized our belongings, took a breather, and prepared tea.

Figaro: I'm glad I was able to buy the last set of these sweets. Now this one is really the cutting edge of fashion.

Akira: Thank you. I'll take a picture and look it up online.

Figaro: Haha, we've gained some really useless wisdom.

We both sit on the sofa, joking around.

Akira: Thank you for the wonderful opportunity today. I learned a lot today.

Figaro: I'm glad I could be of help to you. Rustica also helped a lot.

Akira: Yes. He was very kind and funny, and made sure to be there for me so that I wouldn't feel overwhelmed.

Akira: I heard about their agency and it seemed really lively and fun. There are a lot of unique people there.

Figaro: They're an up-and-coming agency, after all. I think it's a completely different league from ours…

Figaro: Are you perhaps interested in relocating?

Akira: Eh?

Figaro: I stopped it today but if you're really interested, I will respect your wishes. 

Figaro: There's still plenty that I want to teach you though so that would be lonely. 

Figaro laughs, shrugging his shoulders jokingly. I shook my head unequivocally.

Akira: No. Please let me stay here.

Akira: If Figaro hadn't found me that day, I wouldn't have experienced anything like this. I'm really grateful to you.

Akira: Plus, right now learning from Figaro at this office, it's so fun and I'm so happy.

Figaro: ......Yeah, I know.

Wine and grape juice are poured into two glasses placed side by side.

We gently hit the glasses together for a toast, and Figaro takes a sip of wine.

Figaro: But... if you stay by my side, I might eventually paint the brand new you in whatever color I want you know.

Figaro: Make you do whatever I want, and slowly seduce you so that you'll actually entrust your body and soul to me.

Akira: Oh, it's another play, isn't it? I won't be fooled this time...

Figaro: Who knows.

Akira: ...Figaro?

Figaro: I don't mind if you took me seriously. What about you, what do you want to do?

Leaning forward a little, Figaro peers into me.

The eyes before me are as bottomless as the deep sea.

But I know. Figaro is a kind person who won't do anything I don't like.

Akira: ...I'm okay with that too.

Figaro: Eh?

Akira: Just kidding!

Figaro: …….

Akira: Ehehehe. I tried to imitate Figaro in the afternoon, how was it?

Figaro: ...... Ahaha!

Figaro: I've been had. I've thought this before, but you have talent, Akira.

Figaro: In the future, you might become an even bigger shot than my wildest dreams.

Whether in dream or reality - Card Episode

Figaro: Master Sage, it's me, can I come in?

Akira: Figaro. Yes, of course.

Figaro: Good morning, breakfast will be ready soon, so I came to pick you up.

Akira: Thank you, it's rare for Figaro to come all the way to my room.

Figaro: I happened to wake up early today. And then, I happened to remember the dream you told me about before.

Figaro: In Master Sage's dream, I often came to greet you like this in the morning, right?

Akira: Yes. If you didn't have work to do first thing in the morning, you're nearby when I wake up...

Akira: But if the real Figaro did that, I'd get a little nervous.

Figaro: Eh~? But you weren't nervous about me in the dream?

Figaro: To be trusted by you this much, I'm getting a little jealous of myself. 

Akira: Of course I trust the real you too!

Akira: Even in my dreams you were so caring and kind. Strangely enough, it didn't feel like we were meeting for the first time.

Akira: You like drinking alcohol at night after work, and I joined you drinking juice. You told me all kinds of stories.

Figaro: Haha. I'm pretty much the same in my dreams.

Figaro: Well, but… The me in front of you right now is undoubtedly the real Doctor Figaro.

Figaro: Today, I'll escort you to the breakfast area. I'll be as gentlemanly as the me in your dreams.

Homescreen voiceline

You saw a dream where I am a super popular actor? That's a pretty realistic dream, isn't it? I am cool, and good at acting, and talking is my specialty...huh? Could it be, this is my calling? Maybe I should start aiming for it.

[srovtl]

(Ta-da! Look at What I Bought!) Rutile R Card Translation

I want to pamper you a lot

Akira: Thankfully, we were able to choose the souvenirs without any problems. Right, Rutile?

Rutile: Yes! Thank you for coming with me, Master Sage. 

Rutile: And also, here. A surprise present for you!

Akira: Eh? Wow…..! These donuts look delicious!

Rutile: Right? Today, Master Sage has let me pampered so much, so please have those as a token of my gratitude.

Akira: Thank you so much!

Akira: (But, it's too much to eat by myself. And there's not enough for nine people...oh, wait.)

Akira: Rutile. If you don't mind, would you like to eat this together? In secret before meeting up with everyone else.

Rutile: ……! Hehe, of course!

Rutile: I'm so happy. To have Master Sage letting me pamper them like that.

Akira: Eh? Pam-pamper….?

Rutile: Hm? Wasn't this just now something like “I want to stay with Rutile a little longer”?

Akira: …..Ah! My words have caused a misunderstanding, I'm sorry! I simply felt that it's a waste to eat it by myself….

Rutile: I-I see! My apologies too.

Rutile: I am now in a Master Sage pampering mood, so I interpreted it in a way that is convenient to me.

Akira: No no…..

Akira: (So this is the kind of mood Rutile's in, which means…)

Akira: (If the misunderstanding hadn't been cleared up, Rutile, who is already incredibly kind would have been in a super service mood…?)

Akira: …….

Akira: I guess, I was letting you pamper me just now….?

Rutile: Oh my, ahaha!

Rutile: Well then, I will have to pamper you a lot, Using the time we have before meeting up with the rest. All of it.

[srovtl]

(For Ya, Sage) Nero R Card Story Translation

Keep being the usual you

Akira: ……

Nero: Sage? You're kinda spaced out, Are you okay?

Akira: Oh sorry, no I'm fine.

Akira: It's just, when I remember what I was like just now, I feel a little embarrassed.

Akira: While I was lending my body to Ciel, I was behaving like a 10-year-old child, wasn't I?

Nero: Yeah. So straightforward and innocent… It was kinda, incredibly dazzling.

Nero: But, thanks to you lending him your body, Ciel was able to be free from his regrets. 

Nero: You did great.

Akira: Ah….. Th-thank you.

Akira: (He's… petting my head. It kinda makes me happy but, I feel like he's treating me like a child even more than usual…?)

Akira: Um…. Nero. The current me is Akira you know?

Nero: Ah, my bad!

Nero: Haha, you're right…. Now I am the one embarrassing myself….

Nero: Today, through Ciel, I spent a long time talking to Sage, so I ended up behaving like this.

Akira: Haha, I see. So that's what it was about.

Akira: Nero is like everybody's brother and really good at pampering people. So I hope to repay you for it sometimes.

Nero: Thanks, Sage. But this is like my nature.

Nero: So don't worry, and just keep being the usual you, for me that would be the best repayment.

[srovtl]

(Bewilderment Sweeps Between Your Fingertips) Faust SR Card Story Translation

The teachings of being good at getting pampered - Chapter 1

Faust: …….

Nero: Teach, there you are. The guys are talking about going back to the magic manor soon.

Faust: Got it, I will head back soon too.

Nero: …..Were you perhaps about to buy something?

Faust: Yeah, some herbal tea with relaxation effects.

Faust: Since I'm sure Sage is tired after a day like this where so much had happened.

Nero: Right….

Faust: What, why are you grinning.

Nero: Nothing, I just noticed that you're pampering Sage again. 

Faust: ……Oh shut it. What's wrong with that.

Faust: Also, you're teasing me, but you can't really say much about others, can you?

Nero: Haha, maybe not. But it's not like I'm saying it's bad to pamper them, it's just….

Nero: Why don't you let Sage pamper you once in a while, teach?

Faust: I let Sage….?

Nero: Yep, I thought about it today while watching Sage.

Nero: You know, they looked pretty happy while pampering us, didn't they?

Faust: …..I guess……

Faust: If it will make them happy, I am fine with this, but….

Nero: …..? What's wrong?

Faust: Unfortunately, I can't say I'm good with that sort of thing.

Faust: .....So Nero. Can I ask for your advice on the ways of getting pampered?

The teachings of being good at getting pampered - Chapter 2

Nero: Eh, me?

Nero: It's not like I'm particularly good at that kind of stuff…

Faust: Really? But you're good at getting close to other people.

Faust: Like Oz and Bradley, I feel like they're rather soft toward you…. I assume that was also a type of getting pampered.

Nero: No no, in their case, they're just thinking “there's no way this guy can be a threat to me” and looking down on me.

Nero: Like, when there's a stray cat screwing around besides you but you're like, eh, who cares.

Faust: ……In other words, even if you poke at them without a care, to them it's like getting punched by a kitten.

Nero: I feel like you're rephrasing it to be way cuter.

Faust: Hehe, you're just imagining it.

Nero: But let's see… If I had to give an advice….

Nero: Why don't you do to Sage what you usually do to Mister Shephard?

Faust: To Lennox?

Nero: Not all pampering is the same, some of it is like “pet my head” and “praise me”.

Nero: And some of it can be stuff like “Can you carry this plate for me” just asking for help a little.

Faust: ……..

Nero: When I ask them to do things like that sometimes, Sage looks happy. So I think stuff like that is probably fine.

Faust: ...I understand.

Faust: If it's an approach like this, I think I can do it too.

Faust: Thank you. I was right to ask you, Teacher Nero.

Nero: You're welcome, Faust-kun.

The result of practice is - Card Episode

Akira: Good evening Faust. 

Faust: Sage, what brings you all the way to my room?

Akira: I brought you dinner. I didn't see you at dinner time so I thought you might be busy.

Faust: Ah, is it this late already, thank you.

Faust: There's something that bothers me about tomorrow's mission, so I was

researching a bit.

Akira: I see, is there anything that could be a problem?

Faust: It seems fine for now. But tomorrow the young wizards will be there, so I want to be extra careful.

Akira: (Faust's as reliable as always)

Akira: (But, wouldn't this put even more burden on him….)

Akira: …..Um, is there anything I could help with?

Faust: No, not particularly…. …….

Faust: ……Then, can you make me some coffee? I want to drink the coffee you brew with my midnight meal.

Faust: If it's a bother, just decline.

Akira: …..! No, please leave it to me!

Akira: I will do my best to make it as delicious as Heath's coffee! 

Faust: …….

Faust: .....Looks like Nero's teachings have been correct. 

Akira: ……? Did you say something?

Faust: ….No. I'm looking forward to coffee.

Homescreen Voiceline

If you want to give a gift in return, there are many things to consider, such as whether the other person will be happy and whether it is something they can receive without feeling uncomfortable. ... In the world of Sage, different types of sweets have different meanings you say? I have more to think about now…

[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Event Translation

Translation of 2024 Event "Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery"

This event directly follows from Main Story 2 and spoils parts of it, you definitely should read it before this one.

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 9 - Chapter 10

[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Chapter 10

???: He—y, hold o—n!

Shylock: Oh, This voice… It's coming from the mines.

Bradley: It's the miners. So they've heard that we're going back.

Craig: You guys are leaving already? I'd wanted to have ten more parties! At least!

Craig: Anyway thank you so much for helping Mason!

Black-haired miner: And the monster! Thanks for solving that problem!

Brown-haired miner: We can keep living here as usual. So come visit us anytime!

The miners came running towards us, shouting and waving.

Mister Mason turned around and smiled fondly at the sight.

Then he turned forward again and tapped his fist against Lennox's chest.

Mason: Mister Lennox. Let me thank you one last time.

Mason: You are the savior of this mine.

Mason: Thank you for protecting me… and my comrades!

Lennox smiled.

Dazzling, nostalgic, loving, as if burning the image into his eyes. Eyes filled with so many emotions.

The mine spreads out beneath the blue sky. The tough miners exchange smiles. This scenery must resemble his hometown...

I'm sure Lennox is burning it into his mind right now.

Rutile: Alright, I'll open it.

Akira: I'm counting on you, Rutile!

Chloe: Oh, I'm getting nervous!

Rutile: Tada!

Rutile spreads the newspaper he's holding out wide on the table.

It's the issue published today by the newspaper company Luchino works in.

Amazingly, our article written by Luchino has been approved for publication…

We were so delighted, we decided to go and read it together at the wizards’ house, with all the members from that time gathered together.

Bradley: Which one is it?

Heathcliff: Ah, this article. I think it's that one.

Rutile: Oh my! Look at this headline!

Rutile: It says, "The savior of the coal mines appears." So cool!

Lennox: ...The savior of the coal mines…

Arthur: That would be Lennox. He witnessed his exploits with his own eyes, so it's only natural that he'd call him so.

Shino: Heh. I'll let him have it this time, but next time I'll be the one to take the lead role.

Akira: What else is written in it?

Shylock: Master Sage, please sit next to me. I'll read the article to you.

Akira: Oh, that'd be helpful, thanks Shylock!

I immediately picked up Sakitty and went over to Shylock's side.

Luchino's article described Lennox's exploits, single-handedly killing a monster that was a threat that could have wiped out the village.

Then there was talk about Rutile's devoted nursing, and how he even helped out at the mine and communicated harmoniously with the villagers at parties.

The article described how the sage's wizards connected with the people and solved their problems.

The article ended with the words, "If you're in trouble, go to the wizards’ house!", achieving the main purpose of this article.

Akira: ...I'm really glad Luchino wrote the article.

Akira: I could tell that he was watching all of you honestly and sincerely.

Akira: Especially Lennox's role...! He spoke of a wizard who is so earnest and willing to risk his life to help us.

Akira: I'm sure a lot of people will want to meet you and talk to you.

Akira: Thank you so much, Lennox. 

I want to convey my gratitude, which I can't express in words, so I bow deeply to Lennox.

As I raise my head, he scratches his chin with a troubled expression.

Lennox: I'm not the type to be worshipped as a savior.

Lennox: Someone who could truly save the world… Would be people like Lord Faust and Prince Arthur.

Lennox: I'm the type of man who believes in people like that and fulfills his divine mission.

Shino: ...Hmph. You're pretending to be humble. But I know though.

Shino: That you're a surprisingly ambitious man.

Akira: What do you mean Shino?

Shino: When we fought the monster in the mine... You said you wanted to kill it yourself, which was unusual for you.

Shino: To avenge Mason

Lennox: Yeah

Shino: And to have a second chance with the wandering hell, am I wrong?

Lennox: A second chance...?

Shino: Yeah. You were the one who pushed the wandering hell into a corner, but then this guy Isaac got in the way.

Shino: I was actually wondering. That maybe you were frustrated.

Lennox: Shino...

Shino: So when you came forward and said you wanted to kill it...I realized.

Shino: I guess you've been looking for a chance to defeat the big guy all by yourself.

Lennox: Thank you, Shino. I'm very happy about your feelings.

Lennox: But... I'm sorry. I don't feel any regret about that wandering hell incident.

Shino: Huh?

Shino: Why? He interrupted your credit.

Lennox: Haha... I guess that's how it looks to you.

Lennox: But my goal... I did achieve it back then.

(Flashback)

Faust: Leno, pull yourself together. I will heal you...

Lennox: ...I don't need it. Please use your valuable power for other important things...

Faust: But...!

Lennox: …I attacked the monster's head, heavily damaging it, but that has healed over time.

Lennox: Even if you attack the head, it's difficult to cause a fatal blow...

Lennox: ……But then I noticed something strange on its abdomen. Below the ribs...

Lennox: Under the purple skin, I saw a faint glow, like a mana stone...

Faust: Below the ribs, a mana stone…

Faust: Same as the man-made wizards...?

Lennox: If we attack it, we may be able to deal a fatal blow to that monster...

Lennox: When attacking without using magic, while a large amount of miasma does not come out from the surface of the body...

Lennox: ……..It does forcefully spit miasma out from its claws and mouth.

Lennox: as long as we dodge that and destroy the mana stone-like thing in its stomach…

Lennox: Perhaps... there might be a chance of victory...

Faust: ... The mana stone in its stomach. Got it. I'll tell everyone. Just don't talk anymore, Leno...

(End of flashback)

Lennox: We can't fight the wandering hell with magic. That's why I went to fight.

Lennox: I certainly couldn't kill him with these hands, but...

Lennox: I had the key to victory in my hands. And I handed that key over to Lord Faust.

Lennox: And that had reached everyone, so we were able to destroy the wandering hell.

Lennox: So… For me, I think I've achieved my job.

Akira: (Lennox...)

A modest, sincere, and caring wizard. And above all, he is our friend.

That fact makes me so happy and proud.

Shino: …..

Lennox: I'm sorry, Shino. Even though you gave me the credit.

Shino: No. I am the one who said something rude. You're right.

Shino: ......Huh? Then why did you say that you wanted to kill it this time?

Lennox: That's because...

Lennox: I had a dream.

Lennox: I thought it would be a stepping stone to a kind of job I could do.

Shino: …..?

Arthur: Master Sage, Shino, Lennox. Sorry to interrupt you.

Arthur: I'll have to excuse myself here.

Arthur: I'm going to bring this article with me today and go to see my uncle.

Akira: Oh, I see! Have a nice trip, Arthur. Please give my best regards to Mister Vincent.

Arthur: I will.

—The Wizards’ House, to connect wizards and humans.

What kind of scenery will the future we aim for show us?

As I was thinking that. There was a knock on the door.

An elderly woman with an anxious look on her face peeked in from the slowly opening door.

Elderly Woman: Um...I heard that the savior of the coal mines might be here, so I came.

Shylock: Come in, this way.

Elderly Woman: Oh, thank goodness! I saw this and came here!

Elderly Woman: Savior of the mine, Sage's wizards. Would you please help me...!

She was holding today's newspaper with Luchino's article in it.

Everyone's eyes turn toward Lennox.

Feeling a little embarrassed, Lennox stepped forward as everyone looked at him with looks that seemed to tell him it was time to take the stage.

He turned his sincere, straightforward gaze to the woman.

Lennox: I'm not that impressive a man, but...

Lennox: I'll listen. If I can be of any help to you.

Previous Chapter - Directory

[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Chapter 9

Lennox gasped and quickly distanced himself from the monster.

Yet, the poisonous mucus quickly covered Lennox's body with the speed of an avalanche.

Lennox: Gah!

Rutile: Mister Leno...!

Smoke was billowing out of Lennox's arms as he instinctively shielded his face.

His clothes had melted, revealing red, rotten skin, and I instinctively covered my mouth.

Arthur: The monster opened its mouth again! 《Pernoctant…》

Arthur: (No, this is Lennox's fight)

Arthur: (Just like Rutile… He has his choice)

Arthur: Lennox! Next one is coming...!

Responding to Arthur's voice, Lennox changed the stance of his mace.

And with a force that cuts through the air he strikes the jaw from below.

With a gulp, purple mucus spurted from its upturned mouth.

Smoke rose from the monster's face along with a scream.

Writhing and thrashing, the monster scattered mucus from its entire body.

Lennox: …..….

For a moment, Lennox's foot stomped on a stone.

In the midst of the strange smell coming from the mucus, I resist the urge to run up to him as he continues to fight.

Because those eyes still burn.

They continue to gaze at the light that awaits in the future.

The monster, roaring with rage, rushes towards Lennox.

Moving like he expected this, Lennox swung his mace.

The sharp tip aimed at the monster's chest.

Shino: He did it...!

The monster falls to the ground, yelling in agony.

The impact is so strong it makes the ground shake.

The force of the blow makes sand fly like smoke.

The rising sand hides both the giant monster and Lennox.

In the midst of it…

I could hear the sound of something like glass shattering.

A sparkling light mixed with the rising sand.

The smell of the poisonous mucus started to fade, and what we saw beyond the dust cloud was...

Lennox, standing on both feet.

Shining rainbow-colored stones were scattered at his feet.

As if they were celebrating his victory.

Akira: Lennox!

Everyone ran over to Lennox and supported him.

Shino: You did it.

Bradley: You showed some guts.

Shylock: Here, hold on to my shoulders. Your body must be in pain from the burns.

Arthur: I'll put healing magic on you. Lie down.

Heathcliff: I'll get sugar for you!

Chloe: Me too!

Lennox: Thank you, everybody.

Lennox: But these burns of this level are just scratches. It's all thanks to Chloe for making me clothes out of strong fabric.

Lennox: Thank you, Chloe. And I'm sorry.

Lennox: I ruined the clothes you took the time to make for me.

Chloe: ……!

Chloe: Oh come on, don't do that...!

Chloe: Don't apologize. I'm glad Lennox is safe. I'm so glad. Your safety is the most important thing.

Chloe: We can fix the clothes later. Let's all wear matching clothes until the very end and go back to the magic manor...!

Lennox: Yeah, I'm counting on you.

Luchino: (Amazing...)

Luchino: (This is, sage's wizard's power…)

Luchino: (Ah! I have to write down this heroic sight...!)

Beside us, gathered around Lennox, I saw Luchino running his pen.

And further ahead, I could see Rutile clutching the hand of Mister Mason, who lay there.

Rutile: (Thank goodness... From the looks of it, Arthur should be able to treat Mister Leno's burns.)

Rutile: (As for me, I have to do what I can.)

Mister Mason's rough hands continue to be illuminated by the healing light.

Rutile: (………It's okay. It's okay. You'll get better soon)

Rutile: (When you get better, let's go see Mister Craig first thing)

Rutile: (That's right. How about you go and watch the stars together for the first time in a while?)

Rutile: (I'm sure he'll be happy. So...)

Rutile: I'll definitely save you.

Rutile tightened his grip again in prayer.

And then―

Mason: hh…..

Rutile: Mason! Are you awake?

Mason: …Hu…..h….

Mason: Wha... the monster...?

Rutile: Mister Leno defeated it.

Rutile: You and your comrades. And this village too...

Rutile: Everything's okay now.

Rutile smiled at him with blurred eyes that looked like stars reflected on the surface of water.

Mister Mason received that smile and this time, he smiled back.

Three days later.

Shylock told me that he had cast a strengthening spell on the bedrock of the mine to make it less likely to crumble.

And after making sure that Lennox, Mister Mason, and the other people who had collapsed had made a full recovery…

We decided to say goodbye to the mine.

Lennox: Thank you for all your help.

Mason: Mister Lennox. That's what I should be saying.

Mason: If you guys hadn't come, I don't know what would have happened to this village by now… You really saved us.

Akira: It's all thanks to Luchino's suggestion. If he hadn't asked us to accompany him then, we might not have made it in time.

Chloe: True...! It was perfect timing. Thank you, Luchino.

Luchino: Not at all! It was a valuable experience for me.

Luchino: ...This time, I'll definitely make it a good article.

Luchino: An article worthy of your personalities, of your pride.

Arthur: Nothing makes me happier. Thank you, Luchino.

Arthur: We are truly lucky to have your help.

Arthur: I look forward to your article.

Luchino: Yes sir!

Shino: So? What are you going to do, Mason?

Shino: Are you coming with us, or are you going to stay here?

Shino: Have you come to a decision yet?

Shino's eyes pierce Mister Mason's heart. Mister Mason looks back straight and nods slightly.

Mason: Yeah, I've decided.

Mason: I'm staying here.

An unwavering answer. A face as fresh as the early summer breeze.

Lennox: ...I see.

Mason: ...When I encountered the monster, my body moved on its own.

Mason: I just couldn't forgive him. Because of him, everyone in the village...

Mason: But I couldn't do anything. I lost consciousness, and I thought, oh, I'm going to die...

Mason: I thought I'd never get to eat with Mister Craig and the rest again. It was so frustrating.

Lennox: …….!

Rutile: Hehe. I bet Mister Craig would cry if he heard that.

Shino: Go tell him that.

Mason: Haha, I'd rather not.

Mason: Whenever he gets happy he hugs me, and it hurts, A lot.

Mister Mason's somewhat reserved air softens and melts away.

Mason: I don't really get it yet, but...

Mason: I think this is my sliver of hope.

Mason: As long as I can eat with everyone in the village... I want to live here a little longer.

Mason: And I want to become a man who can use my father's pickaxe more skillfully.

Mason: And while I'm doing that, I hope I can start thinking about what ‘my job’ is...

That is, without a doubt, an answer he came up with himself.

Lennox, Shino, and Rutile smile softly, like an embrace for both his feelings and him.

And Heathcliff, who had been casting a gentle glance at Mister Mason, also smiled at him.

Heathcliff: ...If one day, you feel like you want to see a different world.

Heathcliff: Send a letter to the magic manor or the wizards’ house.

Heathcliff: I want to take you to the places you'd like to go. 

...Decisions aren't set in stone. We know that there will be nights when that resolve wavers.

Having a way out is also hope. Sometimes it helps you persevere.

The words Heathcliff gave him were a small ray of light.

Mason: Haha. I'd be nervous if a pretty person like you showed me around.

Mason: ...Thank you. I'll keep that option in mind as a good luck charm.

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[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Chapter 8

Rutile: It's shaking… so much…

Chloe: I can't stand up...!

The vibrations grow stronger like they're pushing up from the soles of my feet. Next comes a sideways sway that shakes my whole body.

But it only lasts for a few seconds. The shaking stops soon after...

Black-haired Miner: Hey, that shaking just now. Is there another rockslide...?!

Brown-haired Miner: Yeah, maybe it is. Damn it, I've had it with those.

Brown-haired miner: But at least it happened late at night. By now everyone had left the mines.

Craig: Hey, guys! Bad news!

Craig: Mason isn't home...!

Rutile, Lennox, Akira: ………!

Black-haired miner: What!?

Brown-haired miner: He said he was going to finish early today, so I thought he was resting in his room...

Craig: ...Wait. Hey, today… It's the anniversary of Simon's death, right...?

Brown-haired miner: Yeah. We went to that place this morning to pray... But no way...!

Craig: That's right, Mason said he'd go alone at night!

Craig: Oh no, maybe he got caught in this accident...! I have to go and check right now…!

Lennox grabbed Mister Craig's shoulder as he grabbed his pickaxe and looked like he was about to run.

Lennox: Wait. There might be a monster in the mine that caused this strange incident.

Lennox: So, can you guys go back and look for other places Mason might have gone to?

Lennox: We'll go into the mine. If we find Mason, we'll definitely bring him back safely.

Mason: ………Whoa!

Mason: What's… this shaking… I can't stand up...

Mason: (That's the sound of the ground collapsing. It's coming from the direction of the altar... is it another rockslide?)

Mason: (Should I go back...? No, the shaking has stopped. Might as well go as far as I can.)

Mason: (I've prayed at that place every day, every anniversary of his death. Otherwise my father can't rest in peace.)

Mason: (No worries, I have this pickaxe. My father and mother are protecting me from heaven.)

Mason: (Besides, if I go there... I feel like I'll understand.)

Mason: (...What is hope for me)

Mason: …Hm?

Mason: (Footsteps? But, it feels different? That's not the sound of shoes...)

Mason: …!

Mason: ...... …….What….. is this... I suddenly feel dizzy…

Mason: My hands are numb... I can't….move my legs...

Mason: (The growling sound is getting closer. It's becoming louder and louder...)

Mason: ......Ahh! A-a monster...!

Mason: I-I have to run.... Damn, I can't move my legs...

Mason: (Wait a second...? Isn't that just like what Mister Craig said, he suddenly got dizzy and couldn't move his body?)

Mason: (Could it be this monster...? This is the one that killed people of the village...?)

Mason: ......Ah, ha...

Mason: You, how dare you...

Mason: My dear comrades! How dare you...!

Mason: AAAAAAH...

(scene change)

Shylock: —Everyone. The presence of the magical creature that we didn't feel during the day is getting stronger.

Bradley: The earthquake earlier was the final straw. The seal has probably been broken completely.

Arthur: If that's the case, there's a chance that toxic gas is filling the area.

Arthur: Master Sage, Luchino. We've all cast protective magic, but please let us know immediately if you sense anything unusual.

Akira: ……I understand.

Luchino: Th-thank you...!

We walk through the coal mine, where sunlight doesn't reach, relying on the magical light that Arthur and the rest make.

Lennox: …We walked this far yet we still can't find Mason.

Lennox: But there are traces of wax on the ground. There's no doubt that someone has walked this path.

Rutile: Maybe it's like everybody says, he went to his father's place far ahead?

Luchino: Everyone, look...! Over there...!

At the place Luchino was pointing at. at the end of the tunnel, I could see a large, swaying shadow.

It has two thick arms and two legs. But other than that, it's completely different from a human body.

Akira: W-what is that...?

Its massive body looked like it could swallow five people at once.

The hairy legs and sharp claws that supported it made it look like a giant bear standing before you.

But from the waist up it looked more like a lizard. Its skin was slimy and glistening, and purple mucus was dripping onto the ground.

Above the mucus, I noticed something red falling with a drop, drop.

Akira: (Is that blood...?)

At that moment, the monster slowly turns around.

It was holding something in its flipper-like hands.

Stained red, what lay limp and motionless was…

Lennox: Mason...!

Bradley: 《Adnopotensum》!

Bradley's bullet pierces one of the monster's eyes.

Shino: 《Matztzāh Sudipas》!

Kicking the ground, Shino swung his scythe through the air.

The sharp blade sliced ​​off the thick arm that was gripping Mister Mason's body.

Mason: Ugh…..

Shino: Mason, pull yourself together!

Mason: ...I...will…

When Shino rescued Mister Mason, he was holding his father's pickaxe in his hand.

The tip of the pickaxe was wet.

The blood that dripped onto it was not his own, it was an eerie purple color…

It was proof that he risked his life to face the enemy.

In Shino's arms, Mister Mason mutters with a hazy consciousness.

Mason: My...com….rades…

Lennox: ………

Shino: ...Leave the rest to us.

Shino: Rutile! I'm leaving Mason in your care.

Rutile: Of course!

Rutile gently lays Mister Mason, who Shino had entrusted to him, on the ground.

Luchino: (W-what a terrible injury… It's a wonder he's still breathing.)

Luchino: (This person is already...)

Rutile: Mason. It's okay.

Rutile: I'll make it okay. Definitely. 

Luchino: !

Rutile:《Ortonik Setomaouge》

A soft, gentle light envelopes Mason.

Meanwhile, bullets are fired from Bradley's rifle.

The monster's anguished roar hurts my eardrums.

As if expressing the monster's rage, the poisonous purple mucus engulfs the surrounding area even more.

Bradley: If this keeps up too long, it's going to be troublesome. I'll finish him off quickly.

Shino, Lennox: Hold on.

They both spoke in unison. Lennox was the first to speak.

Lennox: I want to kill this guy.

Shino: ……..

Shino: Sure.

Shino was smiling.

His feet, which normally would be running out before anyone else, were firmly planted on the ground, and he was looking straight at Lennox.

Shino: For once, you look like you want to kill him the most.

Shino: getting in the way of that would be rude.

Heathcliff: Shino...

Bradley: …….

Bradley: Alright then. You can have this one.

Bradley: After all, Your face right now looks just like a certain tiny one.

Shino: Hmph.

Lennox: Thank you both.

Lennox closes his eyes for a moment, and in his eyes dwells–

The flames of a veteran who has survived near absolute death.

Lennox: 《Forsettao Meiuvat》

Along with the whispered words, Lennox holds something in his hand.

A lump of dull, shining metal at the end of a long handle.

Akira: (Is that, no way...!)

Shino: It's a mace.

Bradley: Huh, this is getting interesting.

I heard the sound of Lennox kicking the ground with the mace in his hand.

Seeing his back as he ran off, my heart trembled.

— I heard that Lennox's former magical tool was also a mace.

I wonder if the founding hero and that wizard also had the memory of him running towards the enemy with it in his hand etched in their mind.

Where the crimson eyes were fixed, a large shadow floated up on the wall.

The monster rose to its feet, dripping an eerie mucus. Its lightless eyes locked on Lennox and it mercilessly raised its remaining arm.

It was a blow as fast as gale, not giving him even time to blink.

But Lennox was faster.

Without flinching, he dodged the arm that had cast a shadow over him.

The monster's fist slammed into the ground with an unimaginable force.

A thunder-like rumble mixed with a squelching sound and a large crack spread across the ground.

The depth to which the earth had been gouged out sent chills down my spine.

Then the monster roared.

The roar sounded as it ran through the tunnel. The impact felt as if something had grabbed my brain, and my vision became blurred and distorted.

But Lennox, like a towering tree in a storm, raised his arms, eyes unwavering.

What splattered on the surrounding walls was neither red nor purple, but jet black blood.

The monster's body shook.

Not missing the opportunity, Lennox landed another powerful blow on the head.

The monster fell to its knees from Lennox's fierce attack, and its body began to tremble.

Like he was trying to spit something out.

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[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Chapter 7

Suddenly, I notice the tool placed next to Mister Mason.

Akira: (That's a really old pickaxe... It is quite large compared to Mister Mason's body.)

Mister Mason must have noticed my gaze, because he stroked the handle of the pickaxe with an embarrassed look on his face.

Mason: Oh, this... It's pretty worn out isn't it? I've been using it for a long time.

Lennox: You care about it a lot.

Mason: …Not really. But it was my dad's, so it's hard to let go.

Mason: But as you can see, this one's life is nearing its end.

Mister Mason smiles with a resigned look. It was a very lonely smile.

Lennox: Can I see it for a bit?

Mason: Eh? Oh, yeah...

Lennox looked closely at the pickaxe he had been handed over.

He changes the hand carrying it several times, checking the feel. After a moment, a smile breaks across his face.

Lennox: The handle is non-slip and fits comfortably in the hand. The weight isn't too light, and it's not too heavy...

Lennox: Your father left you a fine tool.

Lennox: 《Forsettao Meiuvat》

Mason: Ah...

Mister Mason's pickaxe glows faintly in Lennox's hand.

After a quick glance to confirm, he handed the pickaxe back to Mister Mason.

Lennox: I put a protective spell on the pickaxe.

Lennox: I can't say that my magic will last forever, though.

Lennox: I think it will last longer than doing nothing.

Mason: ...Oh, thank you.

Mister Mason holds the pickaxe carefully, and a slight smile appears on his face.

But then, he immediately frowns and drops his gaze gloomily admonishing himself.

Mason: ...I'm only half-hearted.

Akira: Eh?

Mason: ...I don't like this job, that's true.

Mason: But now… When he said it will last a long time...

Mason: I felt so relieved that I can still use my dad's pickaxe.

Lennox: ……

Mason: The offer to go to the capital too, it's a golden opportunity... So why am I hesitating?

Mason: I can't get the faces of the people in the village out of my head. I can't say that I'm leaving this village, I don't want to say it...

Mason: I don't know which way to go...

Lennox, Akira: …….

Mason: ……

Mason: What did you do?

Lennox: Me?

Mason: You're not a miner anymore, are you? So you quit because you hated the job?

Lennox: No….. In my time, there was no time to think about whether you liked something or not.

Lennox: But you know…

Lennox picked up a piece of coal he had dug up. He placed it in his large hand and showed it to us.

Lennox: A long time ago... When I was still a child, a friend of mine was seriously injured while trying to protect me.

Lennox: When I was lamenting and regretting what had happened, my father told me.

Lennox: "He didn't protect you for your own sake."

Lennox: "He protected the wizard first, to protect all his comrades.”

Lennox: "If you regret that, then become someone who can fight for his comrades too."

Lennox: "To do that, do a job that only you can do."

Lennox: There were many things I couldn't talk about after that, but... I repeated those words over and over in my heart.

Lennox: Even after I lost my father in the coal mines. His words were the "hope" that lit the path I was on.

Saying that, Lennox slowly closes his eyes.

Akira: (...Lennox always risks his life and fight for us)

Akira: (For him, the kind of job only he can do...)

Akira: (I wonder what Lennox himself think it is)

I suddenly looked at his hands, and they were fists.

---As if he was holding something.

Mason: …….So you lost your father in the coal mines, too.

Lennox: Yes. My father was a man who never forgot his pride.

Lennox: He fought against a lord and died alongside his comrades, And until the very end...

Lennox: He was a great man.

The strength and warmth of that one word makes something hot well up inside me.

Mason: Become someone who can fight for his comrades...

Lennox: Mason. Those words are what my father said to me.

Lennox: So there's no need for you to follow my example. But...

Lennox: What is the "hope" that lights your path? What would you call "hope"?

Lennox: I'd be happy if you could accept this as just one of an infinite number of perspectives.

Mason: Mister Lennox...

Mason: Thanks. ...I'll think about it a bit more.

In the end, nothing major happened that day.

After we've finished our tasks, we meet up with everyone at the village.

Chloe: Bradley! I'm so glad you made it back safely.

Rutile: I was worried when Master Sage told us you sneezed and disappeared.

Bradley: Yeah, well. I've kept getting blown all over the place.

Shino: Don't lie. This guy was back before nightfall.

Shino: Luchino told me that Bradley was at an old woman's house in the village.

Bradley: You did what?

Shylock: Oh my, great job.

Luchino: N-not really. I didn't do much...

Bradley: Damn. There are even many annoying guys now.

Bradley: Hey, you. Me. later.

Luchino: Y-Yes! I'm prepared…!

Akira: Don't worry, I'll accompany you then!

Shylock: That sounds like an exciting time. Please allow me to join in.

Rutile: Well, it sounds like fun. I'd like to join you too!

Lennox: I'll accompany you too.

Chloe: Oh, I'll go too!

Heathcliff: Then I'll go too…

Shino: If Heath's going, so will I.

Arthur: In that case, let us all have dinner together!

Bradley: Why did it turn to this...?

Arthur: I heard they're preparing dinner at that house. Let's go together.

Arthur: Not just Bradley, Everyone's probably tired from their duties.

Shino: Yay, I'm hungry.

Heathcliff: Ah. Hold on, Shino.

Heathcliff: There's soot on your face.

Heathcliff: Turn your face here.

Shino: No need. Your handkerchief will get dirty.

Shino: It only needs this much.

Heathcliff: Don't wipe it so roughly with your arm.

Shino: Look, it's clean now.

Heathcliff: The soot hasn't fallen off at all. Come on, turn my way.

Lennox: I'm sorry I had to leave the treatment to you, Rutile.

Lennox: How are the people who collapsed? Do you think they'll be able to return to their normal lives?

Rutile: Yes. I think most of them have gotten better after today's treatment.

Rutile: All they need to do now is eat nutritious food and take it easy, and I think they'll be fine.

Lennox: I see… That's good.

Heathcliff: Thanks to Rutile, we were able to hear from the villagers who had recovered about what happened at the time.

Arthur: They said that they fainted at the same time that the birds they were carrying stopped singing.

Lennox: That's very bizarre. I've never heard of such a fast-acting gas being produced in a coal mine...

Rutile: Among those who have recovered, there are some who are scared, thinking "Maybe that monster has come back to life.”

Rutile: That person is an elderly and still isn't feeling well. That's why I haven't been able to learn anything more from him.

Shylock: Oh? If that's the case, it might be connected to the information Chloe and Luchino obtained.

Chloe: You're right! Remember, Mason said yesterday that the altar was caught in a rockslide?

Chloe: That altar is said to be a shrine to a wizard.

Heathcliff: A wizard…?

Luchino: It seems that many decades ago, there was a terrible monster in this land.

Luchino: The only wizard in the village at the time risked his life to seal it away...

Luchino: I heard that the altar also houses the wizard's magical tool.

Shylock: The presence we first felt in the mine was probably the influence of that magical tool.

Shylock: Some of the older villagers still remember what happened back then, and they call the wizard "Savior.”

Bradley: I see. So that's what that was.

Akira: Bradley? Do you know anything?

Bradley: There was a strange tapestry in the house of the old woman I've gotten blown away to earlier.

Bradley: A rather unusual for a human house, it had a magic circle woven into it.

Bradley: When I asked her what it was, she said it was the savior's magic circle. I thought she was going senile, but now I get it.

Shino: Hey so, the monster this guy the savior had faced, how strong is it?

Chloe: It's bigger than a bear, but looks like a lizard, and it squirts mucus from its body!

Chloe: It was supposed to be living deep in the nearby mountains, but after a forest fire, it started wandering into the coal mines...

Luchino: When its mucus mixes with the soil in the mines, it turns into a fast-acting, toxic gas.

Rutile: Oh my, somehow, the dots are starting to connect.

Chloe: Right? And to defeat that monster, they needed at least ten men.

Chloe: But at the time, there was an epidemic in the village, and there weren't enough men...

Shylock: So one wizard stepped up and sealed it away at the risk of his life.

Shylock: A brave and honorable man. It's no wonder he's called the savior.

Arthur: ...To sum up, the rockslide accident may have brought the monster to the brink of resurrection.

Heathcliff: So should we seal the monster again?

Shino: Or we could break the seal and destroy the monster.

Arthur: And with the information we have now, I can't decide which is the best choice.

Lennox: Until now we've followed Mason's advice and not gone any further...

Lennox: But it seems like we should go to the altar once.

(Loud sound)

Everyone: ……..!?

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[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Chapter 6

Heathcliff: But…

Shino: I don't really mind. If that's what he wants.

Heathcliff: Shino. It's not that easy...

Shino: There's no rule that says you have to live your life in the place you were born.

Shino: If there's a chance to change your life, those who want to grab it will, and those who don't want to grab it won't.

Shino: That's it.

Heathcliff: …....

Shino: But you don't know which is more of a hell for Mason.

Shino: It's no easy thing to survive in the city without any connections.

Shino: He needs determination for this, not just go because someone else told him to. Enough determination to bow his head and say he's going of his own accord.

Craig: ……. I'm aware of that too.

Craig: But still… Can't you just give him a chance... just a choice?

Craig: Please, I beg of you.

Shino, Heathcliff: ……..

As we started looking for Mister Mason, we found him right away.

He quietly watched the feast from under a large tree a short distance away with a serene look, like he was gazing into a warm fire.

Mason: Huh, you guys… Why are you here?

Lennox: I forgot to ask you earlier.

Lennox: Would you like to have a drink with us?

Lennox held out the mug, and Mister Mason's eyes widened.

Then, with a somewhat distant air, he shook his head.

Mason: Ah... sorry. I don't like beer, it's bitter...

Rutile: In that case, how about this one?

With a bright smile, Rutile hands over Shylock's homemade sangria.

Mister Mason's eyes sparkle a little, as if it's the first time he's seen this drink.

Mason: Is this... wine? It also has fruit in it, and a hint of spices...

Akira: It's called sangria. The one Shylock makes are especially delicious.

Mason: Shylock… oh, that hot guy...

Mason: Well, since you've come all this way...

He gently raised the glass to us, then took a sip.

At that moment, Mister Mason's eyes widened.

And then he smiled softly.

Mason: ...It's delicious.

Rutile, Lennox, Akira: ……….

We smile back at his soft expression, which we've never seen before.

Lennox: Mason. I hope we can get along.

Lennox: It's a party. It would be a shame to not have some good drinks and spend some good time together.

Lennox: Besides, I also had experience working in the coal mines, a long time ago.

Mason: You too?

Mason: I did think you had a well-built body for someone from the city...

Lennox: Haha. Well, that's for another reason. I actually like to work out.

After we all toasted together again, Mister Mason stared at Mister Craig, who we spoke to earlier.

Mason: ...You heard about it from him, right? About my dad.

Lennox: Yeah.

Mason: ...That was a long time ago.

Mason: Even without my dad, everyone here was nice to me. They're all very caring and kind.

Mason: Even if they get hurt on the job, they just laugh it off, saying that's normal...

Mason: And if I get hurt, they make a big fuss. Ask if it hurts and stuff... They're too nice, aren't they?

I felt like a star had lit up in Mister Mason's eyes.

I couldn't sense the sadness in him now, like when he told us about the accident at the mine.

Rather, his gaze as he watches the miners happily sip their drinks gives off a faint, but definite warmth.

Rutile: ...Mason, do you like the people of this village?

It was a warm voice, like a jacket gently covering a body chilled by the night wind.

Rutile, who asks this question, also lost his parents at a young age and was helped by the people of his town.

He must have seen something similar in him like him and Mitile. 

And he too, looks at the people at the party with the same gaze.

Mister Mason scratches his cheek a bit embarrassed.

Mason: …..Well…..

Mason: I owe a debt to everyone here.

Rutile: I see.

Mister Mason, who received Rutile's smile, for some reason quietly looked away. His muttered voice was shrouded in shadow.

Mason: But….I hate this job.

Mason: There's always danger. Gas and dust can ruin your lungs, and you can get into an accident...

Mason: You never know when someone might disappear again.

Mason: ...like my dad.

Rutile, Lennox, Akira: ………

Mason: I don't know what's so good about this job.

Mason: Any other way to live would definitely be way better.

Mason: ...But everybody else is proud of this one.

Mason: They love their jobs, and are proud of this way of life. But I'm the only one who can't like it. ...And that, hurts.

Akira: Mister Mason...

The wind blows, and the clouds hide the moon. At that moment, I hear the sound of grass being trampled nearby.

Shino: If it's painful, you could just leave.

Heathcliff: Sorry to interrupt.

Lennox: Shino, Heathcliff.

Mason: Did you just say “leave”...?

Mason: I can't do that… I can't do anything other than work in the mines here...

Shino: That guy Craig asked us to take you to the central city if you want.

Mason: ………Eh?

Mason: Me, to the central city...?

Shino: If you're serious about it, we'll take you there. You can live a different life there.

Mason: …….

Mason: ...But, I don't have the education to survive in the city… I can't even read...

Shino: So, you're staying?

Mason: That's…..

Shino: This is your chance, grab it and don't let go.

Shino: That is, if you really want to get out of here.

Shino: Rutile over there is a teacher. If you're serious about living outside the village, you can ask him to teach you.

Mason: R-Really…?

Rutile: Of course. I'd be happy to help you.

Heathcliff: …despite what Shino said, I don't think it's something that can be decided right away.

Heathcliff: So take your time to think about it before we leave.

Mason: ...I understand. Thank you.

Lennox: ……..

The next day, we continued to investigate the incident and help the miners with their work.

Most of the collapsed miners had recovered enough to eat, but were not yet recovered enough to return to work...

Rutile and Arthur continued to look after the miners, with Heathcliff helping them.

Lennox, Shino, and Bradley went into the mine to fill in the gaps left by the collapsed miners.

Shylock, Chloe, and Luchino went to ask around both the mine and the village.

Miner: Look, your friends are over there.

Shylock: Thank you for showing me around.

Akira: Shino. I've brought some treats for everyone.

I met a miner who was just about to go inside, so I went deeper with him and soon met Shino.

He was mingling with the other strong miners, and swinging his pickaxe with ease.

In narrow coal mines, rockslides are likely to occur if the amount of force used is not appropriate.

I had heard that Lennox had advised him to help with the work without using magic, but…

Akira: (Shino is amazing as always. You really can feel that he's used to using the scythe.)

Shino: Thanks. So, what sorts of treats did you bring?

Akira: This water bottle. They say it's a drink passed down in the village and it's used to replenish energy.

Shino: Wow, there's actually stuff like that.

Shino: ...It's delicious. Sweet and a little salty.

Shylock: When you sweat, you lose salt. It must be a well-thought out drink, developed through years of experience.

Akira: Huh? By the way, where's Bradley...?

Shylock: I see Lennox and Mason over there, but I can't see Bradley.

Shino: He was surrounded by the miners just now.

Shino: He said he came up with a way to work more efficiently or something. But…

Shino: He was blown away by a sneeze. Guess he couldn't defeat the dust.

Akira: Oh, Boss… Because of the wound from the Calamity...

Shylock: He was just about to show off his talents... What a pity.

Shylock: If he comes back here safely, I'll treat him to the sangria he wasn't able to drink yesterday.

Akira: ...Ah. It seems Lennox and the others have just finished their work.

Akira: I'll go hand over the water bottle.

I left them and headed forward to Lennox and the rest.

Lennox: Master Sage.

Akira: Thank you for your hard work, you two. These are some treats from the villagers.

Lennox: Thank you. I was thirsty, so this is very helpful.

Mason: Let's take a short break. Come on, set over here.

We moved to a slightly more open area so as not to disturb the others while they were working, and sat down.

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[srovtl]

Obbligato of Soot-Coated Bravery Chapter 5

Lennox: Oh, here they are.

As I look in the direction Lennox was pointing, I find the two of them with other miners.

Rutile: Sorry to have kept you all waiting! Here's a drink for a—ll your hard work!

Rutile has a big smile on his face and is holding several mugs in his hands.

Shylock: Our apologies for having kept you waiting. The alcohol and juice are ready now.

Shylock: Once you've received it, it's time for a toast.

Bradley: Oh, beer, great idea. A must-have drink after heavy lifting.

Shino: Heavy lifting? We were just asking around.

Bradley: Don't worry about small stuff. It's all about the mood.

Heathcliff: So you two were helping out with the preparations for the banquet.

Akira: Even though you're both tired… Thank you. Rutile, Shylock.

Shylock: No worries, I'm an owner of a bar after all.

Chloe: Rutile, are you feeling better now?

Rutile: Yeah, I'm fine. Since I was resting until night.

Rutile: And seeing all those generous amounts of alcohol has cheered me up!

Shylock: Hehe. Well then, let us start getting drunk on delicious drinks and wonderful conversations.

Shylock: Everyone, please have a glass.

Shylock: Hoping for a resolution to the strange incident, and a thanks for this miraculous encounter...

Everyone: Cheers!

Everyone raises their glasses and mugs and carries them to their mouths with smiles on their faces.

Next, everyone's hands turn to the array of delicious food lined up in front of them.

Arthur holds a meat skewer, his blue eyes sparkling.

Arthur: What herbs and spices are used in this?

Arthur: It smells so good. It's fragrant and looks delicious!

Miner: Hey, bro. I thought you were a refined young master from the capital, but you know your stuff!

Miner: These herbs can be found anywhere around here. Feel free to pick as many as you like as a souvenir for the capital!

Luchino: (Eek! That miner is really hitting Prince Arthur on the back...!)

Luchino: (Stupid stupid! That "young master" is the prince of the central country...! And offering him wild herbs would be a crime of lèse majesté and you'd lose your head!)

Arthur: Haha! Nice slam. It reminds me of a dear friend of mine.

Arthur: I'll definitely take some of those herbs home as a souvenir for him. Can I ask you to show me around later?

Miner: Yeah, leave it to me!

Luchino: Eh….?

Chloe: Hehehe that's such an Arthur-like reaction. 

Luchino: Eh? Eeeh??

Arthur: Chloe, Luchino, Come over here. Let's eat together!

Chloe: Sure! Let's go, Luchino.

Luchino: M-me too...? Really? Are you sure? To eat next to Prince Arthur…

Chloe: I know how you feel, Luchino.

Chloe: I was also really nervous when I first heard about Arthur, like, that's a prince! you know.

Chloe: But Arthur is Arthur. A sage's wizard just like us!

Chloe: His face when he laughs is so cute and he loves eating meals with everyone.

Luchino: Just like us…

Arthur: What's wrong, you two? Come quickly, or all the hot meals will cool down!

Shylock: Well then. I think it's about time we opened this wine.

Black-haired miner:  Oh, my friend. That wine's no good.

Black-haired miner: It's cheap and not that tasty. It's the kind of stuff we drink when we're drunk, not something we'd serve to guests.

Shylock: Oh, that's good to hear. So now it's the time to show my skills as a bartender.

Shylock: Inviebelle

Black-haired miner: The fruits are getting neatly cut by magic...!

Brown-haired miner: He put them in a big bottle with wine… What on earth is this...?

Shylock: It's sangria.

Shylock: A magic that makes even flavorless wine taste very good… I guess you could say.

Bradley: Oh, a sangria made by pipe smoker. Looks good.

Bradley: Alrighty then, I'll have that for my next glass.

Shylock: Thank you for your order. But please wait a little longer.

Shylock: The more you wait until the fruit blends with the wine, the more flavorful it will taste.

Brown-haired miner: Somehow, when this guy is around, I feel like I'm drinking in a fancy city bar…

Black-haired miner: If you say that we can drink good liquor, guess we'll just have to be good boys and wait!

Shylock: Thank you. I'll serve you delicious sangria with some great snacks.

Bradley: ...What a hard worker you are, pipe smoker.

Bradley: With magic, you could make cheap liquor taste fine without all that hassle.

Shylock: Hehe, but you know, don't you? That kind of magic goes against my sense of beauty. And…

Shylock: A magic that only I can use to obtain a night of pleasure, and a sangria magic that anyone can use if they know how...

Shylock: If you ask me to choose, I'd go with the latter, because it would give them daily enjoyment even after we leave the village.

Under the starry sky, the sound of everyone laughing echoed.

The heat of the party and the night breeze were pleasant, and I was having a lively conversation with Lennox and the rest...

Mason: Guys, here, another serving.

Mister Mason came over to our table to place more food and drinks.

Lennox: Oh, thank you. This looks delicious.

Lennox: Rutile, this is Mason. He was our guide in the mine.

Rutile: ...Mason...

Lennox: Rutile?

Rutile: Oh, right. I'm Rutile. Nice to meet you.

Mason: …..Hello 

Lennox: By the way. If you'd like, you can join...

Mason: Well, excuse me then.

Akira: ...He's gone.

Shino: You were too late in inviting him.

Lennox: That's true… I speak a little too slowly.

Lennox : If it had been Rutile who called out, maybe we would have made it in time.

Heathcliff:  That's not true. I think the timing just wasn't right.

???: No, no, it was his fault for leaving so coldly.

Rutile: Mister Craig.

An older miner bowed his head and joined our conversation.

Apparently he's one of the miners that Rutile and the others treated today.

Craig: Thank you for taking care of me this afternoon, Rutile. Thanks to you and Arthur, I'm finally feasting after a long time.

Craig: More importantly, about Mason. I'm sorry he's so unfriendly. Please forgive him.

Craig: ...Lost all his family at a young age, you see.

Lennox: Family…?

Craig: That's right. ... His mother died after giving birth to him, due to poor postpartum recovery.

Craig: Then Simon... ah, that's his dead father's name. He was my best friend.

Craig: He was raising him all on his own, but he got caught up in a rockslide accident...

Craig: It was about this time of year. He was not even ten years old, and he was crying like a baby...

Heathcliff: At such a young age…

Shino: He's had it rough too huh.

Craig: Yeah. After that, everyone in the village became like parents to him. Of course they loved him.

Craig: I wonder how many times we looked up at the stars together, staying with him when he couldn't sleep properly.

Rutile: (....It's like me and Mitile.)

Rutile: (When mother and father died, …the people of the town were there for me too.)

Rutile: (When I couldn't sleep, they'd stay with me until I yawned. When I started to cry, they'd hold me tight.)

Craig: ...But the more gentle we were with him, the more in pain he looked.

Craig: I guess he's scared of getting deeply involved with someone.

Rutile: ………

Lennox: ……..

Akira: (A rockslide…)

Mister Mason's deep blue eyes stared intently into the depths of the mine.

His eyes were as if covered by the night, obscuring the moon and stars.

He seemed to be standing there, alone, frozen, without knowing where to turn.

Akira: (...So the accident that happened in the mine was about his father.)

Lennox: ...I'd like to have a proper talk with Mason.

Rutile: I think so too. After all, we've met and made a connection. 

Akira: …Um, why don't we go after him? If we call out to him, he might want to drink with us.

Shino: That's a good idea. He'll be scared if we go with a large group, so why don't the three of you go first?

Heathcliff: Yeah. And if it seems okay, let us join in too.

Lennox: Thanks. Alright, let's go.

Craig: ...You guys are from the central city, right?

Heathcliff: Huh, Ah, Yes, that's right.

Heathcliff: I'm originally from the eastern country, but I live in the magic manor in the central country now, and I visit the capital too.

Craig: In that case...I have a favor to ask of you.

Craig: Could you take him with you when you go home?

Shino, Heathcliff: Huh?

Craig: We've known each other for a long time so I know. ...Mason can't come to love this job that took his father's life.

Craig: But if he stays here, he can't be separated from his work in the mines. He doesn't have any chance of leaving.

Craig: But now you're here. With your help, he can get to the capital safely.

Craig: Please...I beg you.

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