#central wizard oz.....................

[flovverworks]

yet again possessed by that time faust asked akira to sing "that song about stars from ur world"

[mhyk-archive]

Fourth anniversary event - Central Wizards.

Featured characters are oz, arthur, cain and riquet.

[aria0fgold]

You never realize just what's deeply wrong with Cain Knightley until you're greeted with a translation of his birthday greeting to Arthur with the very first line being "I will bare my neck to an enemy's sword," Like my guy... That's one WILD opening to greet someone a happy birthday.

[wausaupilot]

CWCT's ‘Wizard of Oz’ takes flight

The show opens June 20.

WAUSAU – The Central Wisconsin Children’s Theatre is gearing up for a fantastical journey down the yellow brick road with its upcoming production of “The Wizard of Oz.” Opening June 20, the show promises to bring the classic tale to life with a talented cast—comprised of more than 90 performers—and a special furry friend. Sophia Volpe and Coco rehearse for the upcoming production of “The Wizard…

[chaikachi]

The Little Prince, The Rose, & The Aviator

AKA We just got confirmation that Oscar's main allusion is in fact The Little Prince so I wanted to gather all evidence that supports it in show thus far.

cross-posted from twitter

A brief summary for those who aren't familiar:

The Little Prince is a story about a young boy that travels to many worlds & meets many people. It is told out of chronological order from the perspective of an airplane pilot that the prince meets close to the end of his journey.

It explores themes around childhood and growing up, love, loss, friendship, loneliness, and hope, among other things. All ideas very prevalent in RWBY.

Part 1: The Little Prince

The first theme I want to touch on is that struggle of trying not to lose yourself as you grow up.

"Grown-ups never understand anything by themselves, and it is exhausting for children to have to provide explanations over and over again."

Oscar is the youngest of the group, and yet he is one of the characters most often shown trying to reason with the adults in the room.

Yes, we've mainly seen it with Hazel, Ironwood, and Oz... but while the rest of RWBYJNR are also 'just kids', he spends so much energy trying to reason with them and mediate conflicts there as well. All while still being the youngest of the bunch.

Another way this shows itself is in Oscar's resistance to merging with Oz. The merge is a very clear metaphor for how the people you meet and the things you experience can often change you. And how, when you're a kid, it all feels like its completely out of your control.

Speaking of the hoverbike scene, I want to shift to a different part of The Little Prince. The infamous moment with the fox and what it is to be 'tamed'. To be tamed is to create ties with others. To become important to them and for them to be important to you.

When Oscar is having a talk with Oz in v8 about how he finally felt like himself, the person he wanted to be, and felt like he was finally "part of the team"... There is a fox plushie lying on the ground as he passes by.

But we see that Oscar was right to feel this way later on.

Because just as he was "only a little boy like a hundred thousand other little boys" when he first met everyone... he had since been tamed, and tamed his friends in turn. And they fought tooth and nail to bring him back when he was captured by Salem.

Part 2: The Aviator & the Rose

In RWBY, most characters have a main allusion that is central to their arc and then secondary allusions for what roles they fill in relation to other characters. (Ex. Yang's main allusion is Goldilocks, but when thrown into the plot, she also becomes the Beauty to Blake's Beast, just as Blake was once the Beauty to Adam's Beast).

If we apply that metric to other characters here, we know that Ozpin's main allusion is The Wizard of Oz and Ruby is Little Red Riding Hood... so when placed within Oscar's story structure of The Little Prince, they become The Aviator and The (Ruby) Rose, respectively.

The aviator is a man that struggles to hold onto his childlike wonder. He tries, but he lives in a world of grown-ups so it becomes difficult with time. The little prince - much like Oscar with Ozpin - helps him remember some of the things that he's forgotten.

When the little prince meets him, the aviator is grumbly after crash landing his plane in the desert & is trying to fix it before he runs out of water.

Funny then, that when Oscar is crash landing a plane it is Oz that instructs him on how to do it.

When the aviator explains his circumstances, the prince laughs and exclaims that he "fell from the sky too". Which is an interesting tie in to the canon RWBY fairytale mentioned in Before the Fall, The Boy Who Fell From The Sky...

...as well as another fairytale we've seen mentioned in the show proper: The Girl Who Fell Through The World. A tale that was first talked about by Oscar, later expanded upon by Ozpin, and finally lived by Ruby Rose herself. (Yes her team also experienced it but it's very strongly emphasized Ruby and Alyx were paralleling each other in ways the others were not).

One thing about the little prince and the aviator is that by the end of their journey when it's time to say farewell, it's quite clear they've tamed each other as well. So much time spent by the pilot wishing to fix his plane and get out of the desert, but when it's finally time to say farewell, he does not want to go. This is not something we've gotten in show yet, but I'm willing to guess is going to be the basis for when the war is won and Oz is finally set free. Leaving the two of them to finally have to say goodbye.

And I realized I couldn't bear the thought of never hearing that laugh again. For me it was like a spring of resh water in the desert. "Little fellow, I want to hear you laugh again..."

Moving onto the Rose.

In the story, the little prince is enamored by her as soon as he sees her for the first time. As he gets to know her, she is described as many things. Some that fit Ruby well (miraculous, naïve) and some that she subverts (vain, self-centered).

Ruby might not be caught up on physical appearance, but she is convinced that she's the only one in all the world that can do what she has to do. It's a childish way of looking at things, and to believe you can't accept help from others is - in its own way - selfish.

In the book, the rose asks the little prince to tend to her. She's very needy with her demands and while the prince loves her dearly, it is a strained relationship. In RWBY, Oscar sees Ruby wilting very early on and decides to tend to her without waiting for her to ask. Of which we have... SO MANY EXAMPLES AND I DON'T HAVE A HIGH ENOUGH IMAGE LIMIT TO POST THEM ALL SO YOU GET 2.

Not pictured here, but still worthy of note: Oscar mediating when Ruby is being undermined in v8, Oscar talking the responsibility of telling Ironwood the truth in V7, the "food always makes me feel better" / "I made you a casserole because you were sad" scenes. The List Goes On.

Part 3: Other Easter Eggs & Evidence

There are also other fun little pieces that drive home just how much these characters allude to the book as well as the inspiration it's had on the show in general.

The first thing the little prince asks the aviator for is a drawing of a sheep that he can take home with him so that it can eat up the sprouts of baobab trees before they overgrow his entire planet and destroy it (and his rose) in the process...

The tree in the Ever After has maple leaves, but the shape of its trunk is very clearly not a maple. When compared to these illustrations, it seems to have pulled inspiration from baobabs... and what does the tree in the Ever After do?

Its roots consume the rose.

One of the lessons that's brought up repeatedly in the book is that:

"One sees clearly only with the heart. Anything essential is invisible to the eyes.”

This is brought up in a few different ways:

The little prince left his rose back home, so when he looks to the night sky, separated from her, he says:

"The stars are beautiful because of a flower you don’t see . . ."

When Ruby is in the Ever After, with no one to tend to her, she is in a town filled with paper stars.

It is brought up again in reference to the desert, which we have a wonderful tie-in now thanks to the animatic shared at RTX recently:

“What makes the desert beautiful,” the little prince said, “is that it hides a well somewhere . . .”

And again by the aviator in reference to the little prince himself.

What makes the little prince special is his loyalty to a flower. Ruby Rose, who inspired Oscar to keep fighting, who reminded him he was brave, and who's mission he has worn on his literal shoulders.

Two other lines in that passage I've highlighted I also want to mention.

"As the little prince was falling asleep, I picked him up in my arms, and started walking again. I was moved. It was as if I was carrying a fragile treasure."

This line about the little prince being a treasure (treasure is an rg song truthers rise up 🙌)

And the emphasis on lamps being symbolic of the Little Prince himself which... we've seen for Oscar A LOT.

"What moves me so deeply about this sleeping little prince is his loyalty to a flower - the image of a rose shining within him like the flame within a lamp, even when he's asleep... (...) Lamps must be protected: A gust of wind can blow them out..."

Also Ruby has been referred to as a "spark" by Oz before and when Oscar is worrying over Ruby at Brunswick farms, Maria tells him to "keep that fire fed" which is exactly what lamp lighters do. Just very deliberate use of that imagery here.

It ALSO ties into earlier in the novel where, among the little prince's many travels meeting plenty of confusing adults he doesn't understand, he encounters a lamplighter. And of all those that confused him, he found he could at least relate to this one and see value in his work.

There is also a matter of how the prince's first appearance is at sunrise:

That he is cited to live on a planet "scarcely bigger than himself" and "being in need of a friend". How we see Oscar very alone on his farm back in Mistral, just like the prince, only tending to his daily chores by himself, we never even see his aunt.

And while there are a few other bits and pieces i'm surely forgetting, the last big one I want to talk about is how both the beginning and end of the book start with a venomous snake.

The aviator shows us a drawing of a boa constrictor eating a wild beast...

...versus Oscar's first appearance coming immediately after he wakes from a nightmare of Tyrian, a venomous scorpion faunus, being sent to capture his rose.

And the story ends with the little prince in a desert getting bit by a venomous snake that sends him back to his rose and away from the aviator... thank goodness RWBY loves to subvert its fairytale origins, amiright?

"(The little prince) fell gently the way a tree falls, there wasn't even a sound..."

tl;dr Oscar is for sure The Little Prince, Ruby has always been his rose, RG canon, Tryian vs. Oscar in the desert real and #GREENLIGHTVOLUME10 SO WE CAN SEE IT HAPPEN ALREADY >:OOOO

Thank you for reading 💕

[mcdonaldsnumberone]

SKIN-DEEP COMEDY!

the symbolism of the wizards' crests and their journeys with you, their beloved master sage.

gender neutral reader

OZ!

—right collarbone: fragility, visibility, shattering of deep belief

Even the strongest wizard in the world has his weaknesses, even if it may be hard to believe. Maybe that’s why it’s so fitting for a man like him to have his crest placed in such a vulnerable place. The collarbone is infamous for being the most fractured bone, the right moreso being weaker than the left. Under the demonic guise, the facade of a wizard so powerful that he can bury his emotions, is a man whose heart is still thawing under love. Emotions are new, they’re fickle, and yet it’s enough to make him hesitate and reveal parts of himself that even he had never faced. Whether it be Arthur’s guidance or the wholehearted trust he puts in you to restore his world back to what it was, the shimmering black lily branded onto his right collarbone is the only telltale symbol on his body of the man behind the magic.

“Remember your duty, Master Sage. The moon does not forgive. Only the strong can survive in this world. Mind your place, and stay by my side.”

ARTHUR!

—right hand: ownership, power, a place of honor and status in biblical text

Sworn to the throne by birthright, Arthur is a man meant to grow into power and grace. His crest speaks to this responsibility, hovering over him more imposingly than any uncle or throne could. He carries out the will of the Central country, second to only the citizens of the people he rules over. His destiny is to inherit and enact blessings, and the constant visibility of his crest is an undeniable reminder of his fealty to you and that he must always use his place as both a wizard and a prince for nothing but good. You have faith that he won’t waver, not when he has such clear eyes for the future and comrades that believe in him without a shadow of doubt. Arthur is someone that’ll seek the light even when the odds are stacked against him, and his outstretched hand, bearing the black lily, will herald his bright tomorrows.

“Please trust me. So long as you are with me, I won’t allow any harm to befall on you. Not only are you the Master Sage, but you are someone important to me above all.”

CAIN!

—right forearm: strength, action, the capacity to start anew

Cain is a man of the sword first and foremost. Even now, with his secret as a wizard out on full display, he defines himself as a knight before anything else. His crest is representative of his strength and his will, as someone who has vowed to keep his liege safe but to also bear the safety of those around him. He’s determined not to make enemies with anyone that might stand in his way, whether it be human or wizard alike. Cain knows there’s more to the world than the small sliver he’s seen, and he knows holding onto his courageous heart will be the key to paving a way for those to follow. Despite having his status, his humanity, and his eye robbed of him, he wants you to help him stand strong in what he believes in. The black lily on his right forearm brandishes his sword literally and figuratively: a living embodiment of his justice.

“Let me protect you. I want to be someone you can lean on, Master Sage. It’s okay to depend on me. As long as I’m standing, I’ll be someone who fights for your honor.”

RIQUET!

—forehead: intellect, intelligence, heavenly love with the good

The world is an anomaly to Riquet just as much as Riquet is an anomaly to the world. After being withheld so much, Riquet’s only now learning what it means to exist apart from his days locked away in a cult. The line between curiosity and hedonism is a thin one: the one between morality and cruelty even thinner. His crest is a reminder of everything he has yet to learn and the importance of utilizing what he already has. Riquet has to discern between what will help others, what will help him, and what will betray everything he’s built up until now. You’re a stranger from another world who holds nothing but kindness towards him, so isn’t it only natural that he looks to you with reverence in his eyes? The black lily on his forehead is a manifestation of his hunger for intelligence, but also a newfound devotion to do good, for the universe and for himself. 

“Let us step away from sin. Guide me to the light, and I will do the same for you. There are so many things wrong with this world, so let’s work hard together to make everything right again.”

SNOW!

—right neck: anger, hazardous, desolate to truth

Blood stains Snow’s hands. There’s no wizard that doesn’t eventually end up succumbing to the chaotic roar nestled inside their chest, but it’s one thing to kill others for power or glory and another to kill your very own kindred out of desperation. He claims it was love that brought White back from the dead, tethering his own soul and sharing it with his twin, but the dead swirls in his golden eyes hint at something a bit obsessive instead. But all’s well that ends well, and your worries should be less about him and more about yourself instead. This world is a lot scarier than you think, and it’s only right that a wizard as wise and skilled as he is ought to guide you through its pitfalls. The right side of his neck is adorned with a black half lily: an eternal reminder of his mistake and his rage, and everything he has to do in order to rectify his sins.

“Have you ever loved someone to the point of death? No? It's an indescribably heartbreaking experience. Master Sage, I hope this world will be kinder to you than it was to me.”

WHITE!

—left neck: strain, the past, implementation of the soul’s will

White is a remnant of what he once was. With no being of his own, his borrowed corporeal form is just an extension of Snow’s longing. He knows his time here is borrowed and yet he can’t even find solace in having died once. He shares his convoluted and twisted truth with the rest of the wizards, even extending a hand towards you when you’re willing to listen to whatever sick advice he might whisper into your ears. It’s hard to believe that his familial love for his brother isn’t as warped as he is, not when the hand that strokes yours feels so real. His half crest is a reminder that White is truly no longer and that he’s practically a ghost wandering in the shadow of Snow’s rage. The black half lily on his left neck is a mark of taboo, not fully intact but refusing to disappear altogether. 

“Has someone ever loved you to the point of death? No? It’s a truly beautiful thing, Master Sage. Perhaps I can show you, if your curiosity demands it.”

MITHRA!

—pelvis: sexuality, old memories and trauma, issues of control

The pursuit of strength might be Mithra’s own way of keeping those he loves safe. He once had no one he could call his, at least, not until Tiletta took him as his student and made him a part of her family. Despite him being rough around the edges, you know that his obsession with becoming the strongest is only so that no one can question him and his desire to be loved. There’s no other reason as to why he holds your hand so tightly as he sleeps, or why he refuses to let any other wizard wager any influence over you. He bares himself wholly to you and you only, trusting that you understand his brusque words. The black lily nestled by his hips is proof of his love, and it’s a mark that he would only show to you. It’s an honor he won’t give to anyone else, so cherish it closely.

“...Don’t go anywhere, Master Sage. What, is that something you wouldn’t expect from me? Does it matter? You’re going to be with me. Nothing more to it.”

OWEN!

—tongue: the devil, the voice of the gods, shame

Owen shrouds himself in mystery, and he takes pleasure only in his hedonistic ways. Whether it be sneaking sweets when no one is looking or thinking up of new ways to torment those around him, everything he does remains inexplicable to anybody else in the Wizards’ Manor. No matter how thorny he is to you or how much he threatens to rip you from limb to limb, you refuse to back down in your attempts to wiggle into his heart. He’ll spew curses and keep you at bay, but he can’t deny your warm heart and the time you’ve spent with him. Maybe his distance is not because of maliciousness but out of his own loneliness, with large swathes of his memory missing. Can anything else come close to your sincerity? There’s no telling. His mouth will always say one thing, but the black lily engraved onto his tongue speaks of a devoted truth. 

“Say, Master Sage, I wonder what taking your heart as a trophy would be like. A gruesome, bloody heart, ripped straight from your broken ribs. All mine… Won’t you give it to me? 

BRADLEY!

—right abdomen: dysfunctionality, things unresolved and unprocessed, authenticity

The spitting image of the North, Bradley always holds his head high despite how much his situations have changed. A once-proud bandit leader of a powerful group, Bradley’s power lies not in his magical strength but in the keen mind that he sharpens with each year that he puts under his belt. He’s experienced his fair share of victories, but he’s experienced even more heartbreaks. He’s cognizant that nothing lasts forever, more than anyone else, but at the same time, could you blame him for not knowing when to let something so sweet go? Fate dangles regret right in front of his face, and it’s up to you to unravel the tangled threads. Sometimes he’ll indulge parts of his past with you, weaving tales of biting cold Northern winds and his stellar glory days, but the glimpses of the black lily on his right abdomen remind you of everything else he’s left unshared and unsaid. 

“I got your back, so don’t slouch. A real leader worth their salt has to hold their head up straight, you hear? You’ve got the great Bradley Bain as your right hand man, Master Sage.”

FAUST!

—left shoulder blade: connection to the heart, guilt, vulnerability

Faust’s crest spreads like a shadow on his back, bearing the guilt and altruism of his past. It’s bigger than any other wizards’ crest for a reason, and it covers him as if it were the same embrace that he yearned for for so many years. His heart is jaded yet still soft, wanting assurance that his actions are the right decisions yet unsure if his goodwill is enough to save the crumbling world around him. His faith has been tested time and time again, and he’s sure it’s going to be tested once more, as the moon descends to take everything he’s cared for. Your clear eyes and unwavering loyalty to him might seem overbearing, but this devotion is what he needs to find the courage to stand up once more. The black lily on his left shoulder blade is his fealty to you and his choice to believe in goodness once more.

“There’s no need to praise me. I’m only doing what’s right. I’m no hero, no great leader, nor am I the Faust of the legends. Please, Master Sage, I’m nothing but a wizard that believes in you.”

HEATHCLIFF!

—lower left back: acceptance, generosity, crossroads at life

Many wizards of different walks of life are called to duty, but Heathcliff stands unique as the heir to a noble family. If being a wizard wasn’t difficult on its own, he’s had to balance the responsibility of his birthright and position for his entire life. Despite the doubts that gnaw like gnats in his mind, Heathcliff strives to be gracious and clement, vowing never to use his position for evil. And yet with his position as an heir growing heavier and the world demanding even more of his sensibility, the insecurity that plagues him becomes harder to wipe away. It’s only the love and care of those around him that can prop him back up, and one day, he hopes that he can extend a helping hand to you just as much as you’ve done for him. His lower left back sparkles with the black petals of a lily, his wizard’s crest, with his gratitude towards you.

“There’s a lot of times when I feel inadequate for all the titles I hold… And yet, you never admonish me for my mistakes, Master Sage. Thank you, and I’ll do my best for you.”

SHINO!

—right shoulder: masculinity, bearing burdens, imbalance

Rash but smart, strong yet inexperienced, Shino’s eager to take on the world and prove himself as a worthy retainer of Heathcliff. He’s hyperaware of everything he owes to the Blanchett family, and for him, becoming a Sage’s Wizard is his way of paying back the debt that saved him from a life of misery. He has little to call his own, not even his own last name, but what bonds he does have, he treasures above all else. The intensity and fear in his eyes are a testament to everything he has to put on the line so he can hold true to his promise of eternal loyalty. You’re the only one that can hope to understand him, the only one to help him digest the danger and the perils around him. The black lily on his right shoulder is the power you give him, to lead him to glory, to lead him to the refuge that he’s sought after all this time. 

“Worry about yourself, Master Sage. I know how to hold my own ground. Things will fall apart if anything happens to you. You’re someone I can’t afford to lose yet.”

NERO!

—left bicep: to nurture, receiving support, intuition

For every shining protagonist on the stage, there’s someone hidden in the curtains to pull the strings. Nero wonders how long he’s been the one in the back. He has an intelligent mind and an even harsher tongue at times, his Northern birth betraying the Eastern mask he puts on. If he closes his mind and lets himself dream, he can conjure up distant memories of snowy nights spent drinking, boisterous laughter, the indulgence of stolen goods and a gruff voice praising his wits. But when he opens his eyes back up, he’s reminded of his betrayal. It’s hard to swallow back the lump in his throat when you console him and tell him he’s more than his past mistakes, but how many more can he make before his act is up? The black lily that appeared on his left bicep betrayed his facade once, and only so many parts can disintegrate before the entire whole crumbles.

“You can’t trust a man like me. But you’re going to do it anyway? You’re such a hassle at times, Master Sage. No, it’s okay. Being stubborn is a good thing too.”

SHYLOCK!

—left collarbone: shock, union, enthusiasm of a full heart

The beauty of being the one pursued means that Shylock has seen the rarest and the most desperate parts of the human psyche. It doesn’t mean he himself is above falling victim to love’s incessant ways, but it’s given him a seduction and a charm that’s increasingly difficult to read. You’re lucky that you have a special place in his heart, with his penchant for treating his loved ones like a pet. He claims Western wizards are free spirits who hate being tied down, but somewhere in his soul, perhaps he’s also grown tired of the cat-and-mouse game he plays with his admirers. He wants the permanence of something fickle, and is there anyone better for that role than the Sage from another world? He doesn’t want to trap you per se, but he wants to see how far he can go with this borrowed time. The black lily branded onto his left collarbone is his permanent reminder of a temporary bond. 

“What a beautiful face you’re making, Master Sage. Fufu, am I getting too close to you? Won’t you allow me, just this once? I want to be spoiled by you today.”

MURR!

—right palm: good luck, encouragement to work hard, impending loss

Is there anything in this world that Murr hasn’t taken an interest in? Undone by his own pursuit of knowledge combined with just the right amount of hubris, even in his shattered form, Murr walks to the beat of his own drum and explores to the tune of his heart. It’s an impossible task to turn him back into the fickle man he was before he ventured too close to the moon, but when he pulls you in for a dance in the courtyard or whisks you away on his broom, it’s hard to stomach the dread that settles in your stomach as you realize his current form is an apparition of smoke and mirrors. Murr doesn’t mind—there’s still plenty out there for him to squander his foolishness on. He’ll happily invite you to fall with him, and the black lily weeping in the middle of his right palm is the proof of the only ending the two of you can have.

“Why the long face? Dance with me, Master Sage! Look at how lovely the moon is and how bright it makes everything down here! Why don’t we fly up and say hello too?”

CHLOE!

—right chest: dissatisfaction in relationships, physical connection, personal power

Optimism and a desire to be loved is what Chloe cares most about. After having his entire world flipped upside down by Rustica’s mistake, he’s learned what it means to be a human and a wizard. He vows to use his talents to spread happiness and always to help others, but each corner of the world seems to be tainted with insecurity and doubt the more he aims to spread goodness and truth. Even his own bond with his teacher seems shaky at times, and Chloe wants to find the courage to break free of his mold to reach through to Rustica’s frozen heart. You’re the only one to know the conflict in his heart, torn between both what’s good and what’s truthful. You appreciate him for who he is: a reflection of all the good wishes he’s kept inside, and the black lily hidden away on his right chest is only the beginning to what you hope will be nothing but a flowery path for him. 

“Do you have faith in me? Then… I’ll do what I can so that I won’t let you down! You always see the good in everyone and in me, so I’ll do my part to repay the favor, Master Sage!”

RUSTICA!

—throat: truth, purification, clarity in responsibility

Rustica desires to love. His entire time as a wizard has been in chase of a bride from memory. The smiling nobleman wants the warm embrace of a lover, their soft whispers, even a quick kiss stolen in between honeyed glances. But that dream has long fluttered away, and only remnants of feathers remain at the floor of his birdcage. He doesn’t mind; his eyes have been opened thanks to his diligent apprentice and you. You’ve never denied his romantic streak, not when everyone else ridiculed him, not when even the universe seemed to condemn him from love. It’s no wonder that he clings so desperately to the dregs of love that he can catch from the end of your words or your touches. The black lily on his throat is his duty to uncover the reality of his past and to fulfill his duty of devoting himself to love, be it something old or something new. 

“Ah, you look as lovely as ever, Master Sage. Your presence never fails to stir something in my heart. Come, let me adore you even more. You deserve nothing less.”

FIGARO!

—right rib cage: crookedness, need to protect the heart, longing for reunion

A man of self-inflicted ephemerality, Figaro struggles to see the permanence of the world. His idea of love is so tilted, so permanently warped, that he develops an inhuman craving for being desired that he refuses to fulfill. He wants to reach out and to be brave, and yet some cowardly vices keep him entrapped in a web of his own making. Even behind all of his empty, slack eyes and perfectly poised smiles, you keep probing far deeper than he expected or wanted you too. Though simultaneously, he wants you to keep pushing, wants you to understand his soul-crushing loneliness and save him from it. Surely, you can see past the “ordinary” wizard doctor to see the broken man underneath; you’re the only one that can save him now. Hidden away like his heart is the black lily on his right rib cage, forever yearning, forever begging for one more chance from cruel fate. 

“You’re staring at me so intently. Could it be that you’ve fallen for Dr. Figaro? Haha, I’m only teasing you. You deserve a far finer man, Master Sage.”

RUTILE!

—right wrist: misalignment of purpose, sentimentality, movement

Rutile straddles the difficult line between the past, the present, and the future. He plays the precarious game of balancing his mother’s legacy and his younger brother’s unrelenting desire to unleash his full potential, all while tending to his own needs and the responsibility of being appointed a Sage’s Wizard. It’s all too easy for him to get lost in the memories of the simpler days in the South Country, with a baby Mitile clinging to his side and his students surrounding him. But he has to find courage and to place his trust in you, praying that you have the proper vision to use his magic for good. You’re both a cherished friend and a leader to Rutile, and it would shatter him to lose you too. He doesn’t need grandeur or glory, only your guaranteed safety. The black lily carved onto his right wrist is his constant wish for your well-being.  

“Would you like a ride on my broom, Master Sage? Ah, you don’t need to look so scared! Would you like me to hold your hand too? No? C’mon, it’ll be fun!”

LENNOX!

—nape: freedom of the soul, deeper truths, connection

Lennox has lived honestly and faithfully, dedicating himself wholly to what he believes to be right. He spent centuries in search of the lost leader he considered to be his master, and he spent even more time pondering what his place in this world was. While he knows he’s no magical genius like Faust might be or even a figure of legend like Oz, his genuine desire to help others and to protect those he’s placed his devotion towards runs far deeper than any magic could even fathom. His true strength lies in aligning his life with yours, the same love he tends to his herd with becoming the same love he needs in order to save the world with nothing but his bare hands. The black lily that blooms on the nape of his neck is a reminder of the delicacy in his fortitude, the gentile nature that will render him as a true savior. 

“Is anything troubling you? No? That’s good. I’m not the best talker, but… I’m always willing to listen to your words, Master Sage. I will be strong for you.”

MITILE!

—left wrist: divinity, receiving energy and protection, healing

The youngest of the Sage’s Wizards and the youngest son of the great witch, Mitile’s entire soul itches to live up the shoes that his mother left for him. He knows he’s capable of doing amazing and unearthly things with his magic, gifted by his older brother in order to keep him alive. No amount of patience is enough to quell his curiosity, so as the Sage, you’re tasked with the impossible duty of giving him the experience he needs all while being cognizant of the ambitions of those around him. Will you let him run free, to become the terrifying wizard he dreams of? Or will you let him be snuffed out, a sacrificial lamb in order to save the entirety of South Country. There has to be a middle ground, and when the black lily on his left wrist glitters cruelly, you have to believe that you’ve made the right choice. 

“Master Sage, look what I can do! Magic sure is amazing. One day, I’ll be a wizard as great as my mother, and I’ll be sure to wow you even more!”

x

[agirlattea]

Mahoyaku Children’s Day Voice Lines: 

Central Wizards: 

Oz: When I was young, I lost to the twins countless times. I was once sealed in an iceberg and abandoned there. The next morning, they came for me, saying “Poor thing, it must have been cold”. At the time, I questioned the point of locking me away but… … Even now, I still question it. 

Arthur: When I was younger, I admired the way Sir Oz’s hair would flutter in the wind, and I wanted to grow out my own. At the time, I was told to refrain from doing so until I was powerful enough to protect myself, as parts of Wizard’s bodies can be used as mediums in spells, but… I wonder if it’s about time for me to match Sir Oz? 

Cain: Was becoming a knight my childhood wish? Yeah, of course! … Is what I wish I could say, but it was pretty different when I was little. According to my Mom, my dream was to become bacon until I was about three years old. Why? ‘Cuz it’s delicious… Hey, don’t laugh!

Riquet: My childhood memories… I enjoyed the time I spent talking with the Head Priest. He taught me what I needed to know and what I should do. I wonder what he is thinking, now that we have been separated… … I hope he feels lonely when he thinks of me. 

Northern Wizards: 

Snow: The other day, I witnessed a child fall down and cry on the street. When I summoned sweets with my magic, her tears ceased and she smiled. The expressions young children wear are always innocent. They do not yet harbor hidden intentions. It is touching* to see.

*Due to the roots of the word 愛しい (Itoshii), it can have a double meaning of both beloved/dear and pitiful. 

White: A strange child approached me on the street and offered a small flower as a token of gratitude. I thought her foolish for approaching a stranger but… it appears she was grateful for something Snow did for her to bring her back to her senses. This happens quite often. I think I will decorate our room with this flower for a while. 

Mithra: I don’t have any particular childhood memories. All I had to do was transport the corpses on my boat… now that I’ve remembered, I want to pick it up again. Please play the role of a corpse. I’m going to take you to the other side of the shore and throw you there, so please roll over docilely. 

Owen: I don’t have any childhood memories: I don’t remember anything… <Cur Memini>. Look, I’ve reverted the weak wizard’s hearts back to their childhood state, so go watch them. Most of the things children do are the same.  

Bradley: When I was a kid, my human siblings were still kicking. Every time I did something, people complained. They were weak and annoying, but when I look at the manor’s kiddos… I remember them.  

Eastern Wizards: 

Faust: I don’t have any grand childhood stories. I simply did my best to play the role as the head of my household, with the support of the adults in my village. I’ve been told I was polite and hard-working, I don’t think I was very cute. …That can’t possibly be true? Haha, you’re quite kind. 

Shino: My childhood memories aren’t great… No. Actually, there was a dream I had once ina. While that I liked. I was a rich man’s son. I went to nice restaurants with pocket money, had a nagging tutor, and fought with someone who was like my younger brother. That’s pretty nostalgic; I forgot about it until just now. 

Heathcliff: When I was a kid… ah, no. I was remembering a friend: an irreplaceable friend whom I met in the Orangery of the courtyard of my parent’s home. Someday, I will definitely take Shino with me to visit that friend once more. When I do, you should come as well, Master Sage. Please, allow me to introduce you once more.  

Nero: When I was a kid, huh… Well, I was born in a pretty bad place*. If I didn’t want to be abused and used by others, I had no choice but to be stringer than them. That’s probably why the first time someone praised me with “good job”… honestly, I barely understood what was happening. 

*Literally: A place with bad manners

Western Wizards: 

Shylock: Myself as a child? I loved the view from the top of the hill, and on sunny days I would stroll through the vineyards. At times, I would sneak grapes off the vines before the harvest… Even now I have not forgotten that fresh, sweet taste. 

Murr: What I was like as a child… hmm, I wonder? That’s right, lets ask this Red Beryl*! After all, this is something I cut myself as a kid. I’m sure it will still remember me though, I was young. <Eanul Lambru>!

*A type of gem 

Chloe: I cried pretty often when Rustica first found me, I’m sure it scared him. I mean, even when I ate delicious food, or wore beautiful clothes I cried. That’d surprise anyone, right? But each time, Rustica wiped my tears. That’s why, from now on, I’ll wipe his… 

Rustica: I tend to be quite forgetful, so I can’t tell you much about my childhood… instead, why don’t I change to the age you wanted to know about? Whether it’s the age Chloe and I met as or younger… fufu, very well then: <Amor Est Viesse>.

Southern Wizards: 

Figaro: I wasn’t very childish as a kid. Both adults and children relied on me, and I wanted to guide them in turn. I didn’t have a particularly childish childhood, but in that regard I’d say Oz and Mithra are quite similar to me. Don’t most Northern Wizards have stories like that?  

Rutile: Aaah! Glasses! …Ah, I’m sorry, Mr. Leno. Earlier, Mr. Owen cast a spell on me that turned me back into a child. The spell was already broken, but for some reason I’ve become really scared of glasses… Oh, Mr. Faust. Aaah! More glasses!

Lennox: A story from my childhood… I started working in the coal mines when I was young, so I don’t have many interesting stories. …That’s right, I remember being told I had long legs and looking forward to growing as big as my father. I was so proud when I outgrew him. I’m sure my father felt the same. 

Mitile: A portrait of me as a baby? …Ah, there is one, but I don’t want to show it to you. Because my head was so big as a baby… Mr. Figaro used to say it was “Rounder than the full moon” … Hey , Master Sage, please don’t laugh!

Back to Voice Lines

[collectorcookie]

@rebelscythe123 this is for u <3

Loooots and lots of spoilers for everything caiowe for anyone reading this btw

Ok so a lot of cain's roles in the narrative focuses on him sacrificing himself. He's a knight so he should put his life in danger to protect others. He's a sage's wizard so he should, again, put himself in life-threatening danger to save the world. He is arthur's personal knight so, you guessed it, he should protect arthur at all costs, including himself. He's so kind and sweet and he made being a shield to others his meaning of life <3. This isn't a good thing, duh. He has no sense for self preservation and is very suicidal, maybe not in the depressed way, but in the extremely willing to throw his life away way. Like, in central ballad, he immediately puts himself between akira and oz throwing a rampage KNOWING ozzy can instant kill him, accidentally or not. And in central prelude, he also just throws himself at a beast with no consideration for his own safety.

Now, owen. Owen is the complete opposite of cain. If cain is generally puppy sunshine who's willing to die for anyone, then owen is depressed and thorny and puts his own survival above anyone and anything else.

Owen is the first person in cain's life that DOESN'T require cain to sacrifice anything for him. If anything, owen is the first person to offer cain something. Freedom. Cain, up until that point, had to keep himself hidden away. Now of course, owen defeating cain and stealing his eyeball was very traumatizing for cain, but it ends up in a net positive development for him because he doesn't have to hide anymore. I think cain even thanks him for it eventually. And another thing owen offers cain is a goal to strive towards. Now that owen has defeated him, cain has to work hard and train himself to become a better wizard. Wait i have two screenshots from anni2 that kinda

Just. Them. Ugh.

Now back onto owen, obviously everyone knows that owen latched himself onto cain because baby owen was locked up in a basement with nothing but a picture book with a knight. And cain is number one picture perfect knight. But another thing to consider about owen's character is that....kizu owen isn't owen himself, he isn't the real owen, he is just a trauma holder for owen's past memories. Wait holup i have more screenshots somewhere surely.

Yeah like in north ballad, owen wants to cure his injury because he wants to stay as himself. He's no longer the helpless small child calling out for anyone to save him, he crawled outta that hell himself, he saved himself, he's strong now. I don't like the way people treat kizu owen as the "real owen" or whatever because that kid just straight up isn't, i like the idea of the real self of a traumatized character is the self that overcame the trauma, not the one haunted by it.

And for kizu owen, anyone could have been kizu owen's knight in shining armor, as we see in ms2, where he sticks to oz like glue instead of cain. This fucks up cain severely. Because the reason why cain stuck to owen is because of his kizu self. Because his kizu self straight up says things like "save me" and "don't leave me alone" and what could a knight like cain do but respond? Yeah sure there's this other real owen that's a brutal murderer but let's ignore that for now because see! There's this other him calling out for help! And all of cain's identity is helping others despite the risks so trying to help kizu owen in spite of real owen potentially hurting him is such a cain thing to do.

But kizu owen will stick to anyone willing to respond. He's not a person. He's doesn't form bonds. He doesn't learn. He's just a trauma holder. In ms1, even when cain shows him over and over again that the door is open and it isn't locked and you can literally open the door, you aren't trapped, i wouldn't do that to you, kizu owen still ends up scratching and hitting at the door because he👏doesn't👏learn👏or👏move👏on. That's his thing. It doesn't matter to him if it's cain who is protecting him or if it's oz, he wants anyone.

And now cain is feeling like shit because arthur doesn't need him, owen doesn't need him, his knights don't need him, nobody needs or chooses specifically cain for anything, he has no space to exist. This is why he changes himself 180 degrees in ms2 because in his mind it's "well manipulating people is something only i can do so i will sacrifice myself and all of my morals for it." Are you. Are you seeing it yet?

BUT who does end up choosing cain specifically, over and over again? Owen. The real owen. He goes and fetches arthur aaaaall the way from central country to check up on cain. And ms2 isn't the only instance for this. He teaches cain magic and then later also prays his name in anni1. Owen ends up helping cain even when oz gave up on him in the knights event. Hell, even in central prelude, the only reason cain is alive is because owen's eyeball protected him. I don't remember where but i think there was once a convo between owen and mithra where mithra was like "that guy will take a 1000 years before he gets on your level" and owen was like "i'll wait". Owen WANTS to see cain grow, he wants to see him succeed.

Owen is the only character in the narrative that pushes cain to grow, cain is the only character in the narrative that pushes owen to see the world for what it is instead of the traumatized version he is holding onto.

All in all, caiowe is an EXTREMELY HEALTHY relationship, they literally make each other better, they just need a lot of communication, and they deserve each other, and i love them <3

[whattraintracks]

Good Genes - Part 1 & 2

part one:

LH's opening is breaking my heart

Bishop: Stockman! Why aren't you solving the problems I caused??

but deadpan because that's how Bishop says stuff

Bishop and his fancy room for taking calls

who's the creepy comm ghost?

Leo has kept his cool so well since he got back from Japan

until now T^T

this is so so so reminiscent of the mind probe scene aaaaaaaaaa

something about the order of their shoulders falling at the reference to Don's double mutation is itching my brain (Leo who makes the ref, then Raph a second after Leo's, and Mikey a few moments after)

we gotta get somewhere fast. let's fly Don's helicopter!

okay, do any of you know how to fly Don's helicopter?

does Don even know how to fly Don's helicopter?

all good questions! they'll get back to you after they fly Don's helicopter to get where they need to go =D

we should all pay way more attention to when Mikey says he has a bad feeling about something

remember kids, it's important to growl before you draw your weapons

(why did they do that?? what happened to my quick draw ninja?!)

Bishop: is this necessary?

yes, for the plot

this arc really said let's traumatise Don and retraumatise LH

holy frick, the back and forth shots of Leo tranqing Don as Don runs toward him is devastatingly intense

Leo looks so serious and the music

oh YES love how, when Bishop straight up lies to them, both Splinter AND Mikey give him highly skeptical looks

the overdramatic shock on everyone's face is when Bishop says Karai is comedy gold

part two:

"a wise man once said"

why is it always men, Leo? maybe it was a wise woman or—

Han Solo??????

what a dork. quoting star wars as if it's such great wisdom

(sidenote, I guess the first one to say the bad feeling line in og was Luke but Han says it twice AND Leia says it too so HAH)

"it's an impossible mission"

Leo you, with your fam and on your own, have literally infiltrated Foot Central before

like at least twice overall

ooh special agent turtles

(special agent Michelangelo! special agent Raphael!! please let them call themselves that they'll love it so much)

come on Casey, duh, April's too pretty to be a janitor

"Leonardo is here" call that nemesis-dar (rival-dar? foe-dar? being-you've-blamed-for-every-tragedy-in-your-life-dar? we'll workshop it)

very interested in the mystics' angle here

uh oh, Raph found some toys 🤣🤣🤣

"and we're backing up. and we're avoiding the obvious trap" Mikey the sole owner of the braincell

Raph, if you blow up all of your toys we aren't getting you new ones

love that Raph is the one Leo sends to figure out the machinery/tech/distraction with Don out of commission

haha wizard of oz ref (not my brain going from there to -> dorothy+tornado -> twisters)

Mikey successfully wields the braincell to keep Leo from showing down with Karai

well done Michelangelo

LH: demonstrates his usefulness to Bishop

Bishop: starts calling him Mr. Leatherhead instead of animal

yeah hmm don't like how icky that makes me feel

naked Donny lol

BISHOP GOT PLAYED

the mystics got upgrades

the true who now? Oh dear

[inviiberu]

[MHYK] 2021 Proposal Lines

2021 Proposal Lines from all 21 wizards! Translation by me and proof-reading and some revisions of the western wizards lines by @amorest-viesse​

✧˖°Central Country°˖✧

Oz: Even time, which feels like an eternity, is finite. Think carefully about whom you want to be with in this limited time you have.

Arthur: “Will you make miso soup for me every day of our life?” …I hear this is a common way of proposing in your world. We don’t have miso soup here, but I think it’s wonderful that such a simple word can become a pledge of eternal love.

Cain: We lose our magic if we break a promise, but there must be some other power you gain by makin’ a promise to someone you love dearly. I hope that I can make a promise like that one day.

Riquet: I love you Master Sage! Um, if I may ask, which of the wizards do you love the most? …Huh, me? Ehehe~ That makes me so happy!

✧˖°Northern Country°˖✧

Snow: If I were to ever get married, I would like to say the line that the previous Sage taught me. Ehem. Sage, would you like a meal? Or maybe a bath? Or maybe… Hohoho~

White: Should we be reborn again, I hope to also spend my next life with you. …Hohoho~ That’s my favourite pick-up line. Did I make you swoon?

Mithra: If you love me, please make sure it lasts for a thousand years.

Owen: How foolish of you to ask a promise of me, just as foolish as love itself.

Bradley: Marriage, huh… I’d probably consider it if it were with the kinda guy I wouldn’t be able to live without. Well, it’s not every day ya find someone who’d love ya like that.

✧˖°Eastern Country°˖✧

Faust: You want me to teach you the most common ways to propose in this world? How should I know? I could teach you the most common curses though.

Shino: A proposal is an important line you only get to say once. I should think about it while I still can.

Heathcliff: To think that someone might propose to me one day... I've no idea when that could be, but I'm getting nervous already.

Nero: It seems like everyone's proposin' left and right today. Marriage ain't really for it a guy like me, but I suppose it wouldn't be so bad to live a peaceful life with the person I love.

✧˖°Western Country°˖✧

Shylock: We Western wizards are known for seeking pleasure and thrills. Thus, if you'd like, I would be glad to entertain you for the rest of your life... Am I joking, you ask? Would you like to find out?

Murr: Hey, Master Sage! Gimme a proposal! Huh? Why? 'Cause I wanna know what you'd say! C'mon!! Please?

Chloe: A proposal!? Ehehe, just thinking about it makes me blush, but I think it's wonderful to be able to tell someone how much you truly care. Someday, if I ever get the chance, I want to be able to confess with everything I've got.

Rustica: Have you ever proposed to someone, Master Sage? What did you tell them? We Western wizards are quite fond of love stories after all. Why don't you confide in me next time?

✧˖°Southern Country°˖✧

Figaro: What kind of confession would you like most, Master Sage? I'll tell you whatever you want to hear.

Rutile: “My eyes are like a lake of stars. I gaze at you with everlasting love” …Fufu, beautiful, isn’t it? That was a verse from when my mother and father met. I hope that, someday, I will find a love like theirs too.

Lennox: If I had a significant other...? Ah, I know. I'd like to protect them, so they'll never have to feel sad.

Mitile: I suppose my brother might get married someday, but I'm sure whoever his partner is, they'll be a wonderful person! Eh, what about me? Well, if I ever meet someone, I'll definitely make sure to propose to them in a cool way!

[ozfi]

A Princess Among Us: Arthur Granvelle is a Trans Girl

First, canon:

The established world of Vollmond is split between humans and wizards. Literally, in more extensive analysis, this is clearly a divide between goyim (mostly Xtians) and Jews, but in this specific case it is used to evoke something else.

The king and queen Granvelle are two humans, but Arthur was born a wizard. This was hidden by the two as well as it could be, but the moment it got out rumors ricocheted around about the queen cheating on the king to birth a wizard (a nonhuman). The queen could not tolerate her child being magical or the rumors about this, and chose to abandon Arthur in the northern wilderness to die. Later, in Arthur's location story, the queen is seen deliriously loving and protecting a small bird as her 'human' son in place of Arthur.

I tend to write/visualize Arthur and the overall setting as though transphobia does not textually exist - I prefer the use of allegory here, personally, along with other canonical hints that transphobia itself just doesn't exist in Vollmond (see this very good post about deltarune that i think about often) - but in this case it is quite literally that the queen wanted a human son, in which case 'human' and 'son' mean the same thing.

This is strengthened by Arthur feeling like she gets to be her "real self" with Oz/oji3 +in the North, where she gets to be a wizard and use magic and act without restraint around people who love and accept her as the little girl Arthur, and not as the failed nonhuman prince of Central.

And then, of course, this is all stripped away from her at the onset of puberty, LITERALLY on the day of her 13th birthday. She is stolen from this sanctuary and taken back to Central to stand straight and tall as prince and boy for a mother that will not even look at her (where her being a wizard is an open secret - where everyone knows that she's a freak and different.)

Something essential to note is that Arthur is the type of person who does not discuss her own suffering in a personal sense, that she is the type of person to ignore her own pain and instead focus on how things must have hurt others. She has only ever brought up how the pre-abandonment period must have hurt her mother, but not how Arthur herself felt or was treated during it. She goes out of her way to not mention the fact she was abandoned. She doesn't even like talking about how much pain she was in being taken from Oz, the person she actually considers to be her guardian, though it is more likely to come up because the feeling is much more raw. We can only assume based on how she is treated now, 17 and with her otherness an open secret, though it's also been mentioned that certain things have gotten a bit less painful over the 4 years she's been back... to put it lightly, even before being left for dead it wasn't great for her in the castle.

She does not like being a prince, except for the political opportunities it gives her to help others, namely other wizards (people like her). Look at this 4koma. She does not feel like she belongs. She pushes herself to be like her father because she's the 'prince' - but also, let's face it, her mother isn't the best role model (but Arthur still wants her love and acceptance [whole event]). She goes out of her way avoid being angry [ch4] because she's a wizard and people will be scared of her, and perhaps also attribute that anger to other wizards.

And then there's the amount of times she disguises herself as her 'Artie' persona, or transforms into anyone else at all, excited and overly willing to be anyone but the Central prince. (1, 2 [though she feels awkward and disparages herself for not being able to 'roleplay' well], 3, 4, 5: [Arthur Bday 2023 Q&A TLed by oshaberiduo on twt], 6, etc)

She's also been associated with butterflies, a sign of transformation and rebirth, a fair amount of times, and shooting stars, something similarly transient and beautiful (2) just as much. She wants to be a flower yet to be discovered or named.

She wants to be herself without expectations. She wants to be loved for who she is and as she is.

Of course, canonically it's good on some level that she was taken from Oz, as she cannot tie her happiness to him the way she does and continue to have a healthy relationship. She's dependent on him labeling their relationship (one everyone knows to be family), she's terrified of him not loving her (because they're the one who saved her when she was abandoned), and she's willing to die if it lets her continue to be loved/repays her 'debt' (because she thinks Oz is still """mad""" at her for """"leaving""””).

That said, I do think Arthur will remain in a political role in Central, but not as prince. She will be the wizard princess of Central, putting together both families she loves and getting to live as her true self with no pretense while helping the citizens she loves and working to make people like her safer. She will be the master of both worlds and live a much healthier life because of this, confident in taking the necessary steps to get to that point because she will always have people by her side.

Second, sources:

Every Mahoyaku character has a main source that's reflected in their names, influences their stories, and thus ripples onto the people surrounding them. Figaro is from the Barber of Seville. Oz is from the Wizard of Oz. Arthur is King Arthur. etc etc.

King Arthur’s story has a lot going on in it, as mythology often does, but the gist is that Uther Pendragon (the former king) seduces his enemy's wife with the help of the wizard Merlin, who in return for his services only requests that he be able to raise Arthur for a while. Arthur only finds out he's the king through a lot of winding circumstances; You know them. Read Arthuriana yourself - there's a lot. The point is that Arthur is the True King from a so-called 'disreputable union' raised by a magician.

But they also have secondary sources, sources the characters were not named after but heavily influenced their stories and personalities. Figaro’s is the Little Mermaid (see everything about her but especially June bride 2021 cardsto). Chloe’s is Cinderella (LOOK AT HIM). Shino’s is Robin Hood (Sherwood. Everything else). etc etc. And Arthur? Arthur is Ozma of Oz.

Ozma's story goes like this: the princess of the city of Oz, Ozma, is stolen by Ozpinhead (the titular Wizard of Oz) and given to the northern witch Mombi. Ozma's identity is hidden by transforming her into a boy who goes by Tip. Ozma lives her childhood as the boy Tip, not knowing her true identity, and going through many hardships under the tutelage of the unkind witch Mombi. Though, importantly, there he learns about magic, and uses it to both escape Mombi and go on a great adventure where he makes a lot of friends who love him dearly and has a lot of fun. Through various circumstances, the truth of Ozma's existence comes to light - she is a Girl, a Princess, and the true successor of the throne of Oz. Tip is frightened by this, but only because he doesn't want to change. He fears that if he changes, the people he loves will stop loving him. It's only through the encouragement of his friends and loved ones and the reassurance that they'll love her no matter what that she gains the courage to go through the process of becoming her real self again. She is still herself, just different!

………….

It's hard to explain just how point for point this is to people who haven’t personally read either or both stories. Either the plot point is exactly opposite, or exactly correct, to the point where it’s clear that the story goes beyond simple inspiration for Arthur's own.

Instead of being a princess kidnapped by Ozpinhead (the Wizard of Oz) and given to the northern witch Mombi, Arthur was abandoned by the royal family and taken in by the Northern wizard Oz (...the Wizard of Oz), though it’s clear the general view of the events has twisted itself into Oz themself kidnapping Arthur. This is not something Oz contests for various reasons, most of which consist of the fact that Oz was a cruel wizard before meeting her, and very much doesnt want her to idolize them (because if she ever finds out…). Arthur made Oz softer than even Oz's own friends could comprehend even with thousands of years of experience with him. But, again, Arthur was taken back to the royal castle of Central, away from Oz and oji3 (away from the place where she was accepted and could express herself fully), where she’s forced to posture as a Prince and Boy (though her secret is not much a secret here).

Arthur's biggest fear is of changing. That she’ll grow to be someone Oz doesn't recognize, that politics will change her, that Oz will stop loving her, that she’ll be left behind by the people she loves. The only thing that assuages that fear is Oz telling her that they love her, have always loved her, and no matter what, they just want her to be safe and happy and love the world she's in. That they haven’t abandoned her, and never will. Never could. And having the support system of not only Oz and oji3, then her friendships with the Central wizards, and then indeed the entire manor having her back in their own ways and giving her a space to openly, shamelessly partake in a part of herself she's still struggling to be able to fully express on her own terms.

Knowing she has a way forward to her true self that won't leave her closed off from the ones she loves and allows her to help them in ways only she can - that’s Princess Ozma!

tl;dr: There's a lot that goes into this: her simultaneous pride and fear of her 'other'ness; her day-to-day performances of her role for her mother (and the other Central officials) which still cant help but burst at the seams with her difference and is only alleviated (briefly) by returning to the place where others are like her (while knowing it's not her 'real home'); her abnormality being an open secret weaponized against her in vulnerable moments and especially for the sake of politics; her bone-crushing fear of being left behind by the ones she loves if she is totally, wholly honest with them about her desires and what she wishes to be (and where). Being literally based on an iconic transfeminine princess certainly doesn’t lend the reading any less credibility.

Basically, this is my little girl.

[flovverworks]

this ssr lineup truly is something (v fond of neros card...T_^ the expression&lightning....

[amorest-viesse]

4koma Masterlist

My archive of 4koma translations from Mahoyaku. [All translations are unofficial; you are allowed to use them for things such as quote bots without asking; 4koma are listed by character then chronological order]

4koma Translations

Shylock - Valentine 2020

Shylock - White Day 2023

Murr - Cat Robe

Murr - White Wizard

Murr - Blue Wizard

Murr - Green Wizard

Murr - Western Ballad

Murr - Central Ballad

Murr - Birthday 2021

Murr - Summer 2022

Chloe - Cat Robe

Chloe - White Wizard

Chloe - Western Etude

Chloe - White Day 2023

Rustica - Western Wizard

Rustica - Northern Etude

Rustica - Summer 2020

Rutile - Tanabata 2022 (Ft. Rustica, Owen)

Rutile - Birthday 2023 (Ft. Heathcliff, Chloe)

Owen - Valentine 2023 (Ft. Chloe)

Shino - Valentine 2023 (Ft. Mithra, Rustica)

Arthur - Birthday 2023 (Ft. Chloe)

Lennox - March 2023 (Ft. Chloe)

Nero - April Fool’s 2023 (Ft. Rustica)

Oz - Birthday 2023 (Ft. Rustica)

April Fools No. 3 (Heathcliff, Shino, Cain, Oz)

April Fools No. 5 (Lennox, Shylock, Murr)

[aria0fgold]

Central Country Wizards: Oz, Arthur, Cain, Riquet.

Northern Country Wizards: Snow, White, Mithra, Owen, Bradley.

Eastern Country Wizards: Faust, Shino, Heathcliff, Nero.

[ikindamaybewanthertositonmyface]

Okay but am I the only one who feels like Wicked would have been better had Fiyero not been in the show? Or at least had not been a romantic interest of anyone? Like, I'm not saying this as a Glinda/Elphaba shipper, even though I am one. I just mean that other then being there for the romantic subplot I really don't see any real purpose in his character. I mean "Dancing Through Life" is an amazing song sure, but other then that. I just feel like the show and coming movie would have been better had the whole love triangle aspect of the plot not been there and the show focused more solely on the central relationship. I mean it does. But still. Plus they could have focused more of Elphaba's dynamic with the Wizard instead. "Wonderful" was such a good scene and I would have loved more like it. Like imagine if Elphaba had discovered the Wizard was her father? The drama that would have added to the plot would have been great.

Also, and this is a seperate opinion, but Glinda should have told everyone in Oz the truth about the Wizard and how he was the real villain at the end. I don't agree with her keeping that hidden and letting Elphaba stay the villain in their minds. It just isn't right.

[cainluvr69]

Main Story 2 Chapter 21 - Dyed by the World (First Half)

Previous Chapter

1 - The Sage's Lattice

City of Fortune Citizen: The new Queen's carriage is here! Praise her Majesty, Queen Liliana!

City of Fortune Citizen: She's so young and beautiful… It's like she was pulled from the pages of a fairytale!

City of Fortune Citizen: And she's not intimidated by this crowd in the slightest… She's someone we can be proud of having for a ruler. Things have been looking bad for our country for a while, but I hope this is the first page to a much happier story for us all!

City of Fortune Citizen: It'll be just fine! She's got Master Akira with her.

City of Fortune Citizen: Master Akira?

City of Fortune Citizen: You haven't heard about them? Haven't you been paying attention to the news? I can't believe there's anyone in the City of Fortune who doesn't know their name yet!

City of Fortune Citizen: O-of course I know who they are. I've heard about them before, I just…forgot…

City of Fortune Citizen: Fufufu. Then let me fill you in. Master Akira is the Sage that was summoned here from another world to save ours. They lead the twenty-one Sage's wizards.

City of Fortune Citizen: Oh, I remember now! They were the one who gave her Majesty her crown and scepter at the coronation…

City of Fortune Citizen: Yeah, that's them! Ah…speak of the devil…! Master Akira!

City of Fortune Citizen: Sage Akira! They're holding a little kitty! I wonder if they like cats?

City of Fortune Citizen: There's a bird riding on their shoulder, too! I bet they like birds, too!

City of Fortune Citizen: They must be a kind person, if animals like them so much! Praise her Majesty, Queen Liliana! Praise Sage Akira! I wonder if the Sage will wave in our direction… Master Akira… Master Akira! Kyaa…! They did! They waved at me!

City of Fortune Citizen: Nice…! Just looking at their smile has me feeling pumped up!

City of Fortune Citizen: Same here! Her Majesty and the Sage are both so young and adorable! The Sage is so lovely. I'd love to be able to work under them…

City of Fortune Citizen: But the Sage leads a bunch of wizards, y'know? Would you be fine with being around wizards?

City of Fortune Citizen: I'm honestly not sure. But I'm sure that the wizards fighting for our world are all good wizards. I mean, they all attended her Majesty's coronation!

City of Fortune Citizen: That's true! Hey, check it out! They're selling portraits of the Sage's wizards! And of the Sage themself, too! Let's go take a look at them!

Drummond & Cock Robin: ……

Cock Robin: They're so popular… Both the Sage and the Sage's wizards…

Drummond: Hrnngh… They're even selling unsanctioned portraits like that… We of Central Country commissioned portraits of them first, I'll have you know!

Cock Robin: They all have much brighter expressions in these ones than in the ones painted by Central's court artist, though. Western Country's representations might be a bit…nicer to have around…

Drummond: Don't be stupid! The Western artist just arbitrarily decided to make them all smile!

Cock Robin: Ah, you might be right. That must be why even Oz and Mithra are smiling such happy smiles…

Drummond: And in the first place, what is all this?! Isn't building a Magic Manor in Western Country an affront to our authority?!

Cock Robin: We did get an official notice from Western Country's royal palace after the coronation ceremony concluded… It said that the Sage and the Sage's wizards' escorts and maids and such will all be provided by Western Country. And that they're grateful for our thoughtfulness towards them until now…

Drummond: How dare they! They've just gone and decided that the Sage's wizards belong to their country! We have been the ones minding them until now! Us, Central Country! We must make a firm objection!

Cock Robin: Yes, sir!

✦✧☾✧✦

Servant: Central Country's Minister of Magic Management, Lord Drummond. We are deeply honored to have received your opinion on the subject. For the sake of deepening the cultural exchange between our countries, we shall take your thoughts as well as Lord Vincent's into consideration…

Drummond: …!

Servant: Is there something wrong, Lord Drummond?

Drummond: …I see. I shall return to Central Country and give a report on this to Lord Vincent.

Servant: It is mostly deeply appreciated.

✦✧☾✧✦

Cock Robin: What's wrong, Lord Drummond?! Didn't you go to give them our firm objections…

Drummond: Were you unaware Lord Vincent is close with the Western royal family?! What would you do if we were to do something that brought shame to his name?!

Cock Robin: We'd get the reprimanding of a lifetime, wouldn't we. It'd be nice if that was the extent of our punishment, but…

Drummond: Lord Vincent is close with Western Country, and Prince Arthur is a Sage's wizard… A single misstep could result in a schism in Central Country, with each of them on either side of the rift. We must proceed cautiously… Let us return to Central Country at once!

Cock Robin: Yes, sir! We weren't able to meet with the Sage or the Sage's wizards even after the coronation… I hope everyone's okay…

✦✧☾✧✦

Liliana: My people. I believe, with all of who I am, that Western Country stands as the heart of this continent. With Western Country's pride and joy, the Magical Technology Corps… And the heroes of salvation, the Sage's wizards, at my side, I will make Western Country greater than ever before.

When I heard Queen Liliana make that proclamation during her coronation… I felt an astonishment and rage I still can't properly put into words. Why was she saying something like that all of a sudden? As if I knew what her goal was and supported it. I need to tell everyone that's not true. As soon as I possibly can. That's what I was thinking.

✦✧☾✧✦

And yet…

✦✧☾✧✦

Western Man: Welcome back, Master Sage.

Western Woman: Welcome back, Master Sage.

Western Boy: If you wait a bit, we'll have your meal ready for you.

Western Girl: Do you want me to get a bath ready for you?

Western Old Man: What perfume would you like to use?

Western Old Woman: What kind of tea would you like me to prepare for you?

Western Man: Would you like some sweets?

Western Woman: Would you like us to sing for you? Would you like us to dance for you?

After the coronation ceremony concluded, a huge number of people trying to be our caretakers swarmed us. There were about fifty of them; men and women of all ages with perfect smiles and perfect poise. There were both humans and wizards in their number, too. I was shocked. It wasn't like the people of Central Country had ever treated us poorly, but… This was certainly the first time I'd had this many people waiting on me, for sure.

Akira: Err, um…

Western Woman: We are here to attend to your as well as the Sage's wizards' everyday needs.

Western Man: Please don't hesitate to call on us for absolutely anything you need.

Western Old Woman: Let us know what your preferences are so we may serve you as best as we can.

Western Child: Would you rather have humans serving you, or wizards? Would you rather have elderly serving you, or children?

Western Woman: Would you like to have someone like me who can keep the conversations going with you? Or would you prefer someone more calm and quiet?

Western Boy: Being able to serve you makes me happy, Master Sage. I'm looking forward to working with you!

I was surrounded on all sides by brightly sparkling smiles. I couldn't get a single word in edgewise.

Akira: Um… Thank you all very much. But now that the coronation is over, we really need to be getting back to the manor in Central Country. We need to get back to our duties taking care of the various strange incidents happening all around the world.

Western Man: You needn't worry yourself with that. All of the reports you've received have been handed over to we of the Western manor.

Akira: They've been handed over to Western Country…?! Is Arthur aware of this?

Western Man: I don't know the precise details, but that's what we've heard, yes.

Akira: That can't be right… I'm sorry, but I really don't have any intention of staying here for that. Our injured members are doing much better now, so we really need to be returning to the manor in Central Country. I really am thankful for everything you've done for us, but…

Western Child: Wa…please wait!

When I tried to refuse them, a boy's elegant voice rang out. Worry was written plainly across his face. Not just his, but everyone else's, too.

Western Sage: Please don't leave, Master Sage. If we've done something wrong, we can fix it, so please…

I shook my head frantically. What were they so frightened of? Maybe they thought that I was going to yell at them or do something horrible to punish them.

Akira: You haven't done anything wrong. It's not like I'm unhappy here, it's just that we have things in Central Country we need to attend to…

Western Woman: Please, can't you stay? If there's anything we can do for you, we'll do it, no matter what it is!

Western Man: I'm begging you to, too! Please, please stay, Master Sage!

There was nothing I could say in the face of their desperation. At the very least, I told them I wanted to talk to whoever was in charge of them. But I didn't get a response that day, or even the next…

✦✧☾✧✦

And so I'm still here in the Western manor.

Akira: (This is a problem… I could ask Oz or Mithra to leave by force, but…) (It feels like if we leave without permission, it'll just cause more problems later down the line.)

Abandoning me to my troubles, the people who had gathered at the manor had decided on a name for themselves. The Sage's Lattice. For the fact that they surrounded and supported the Sage, I suppose. The friendly and fashionable Sage's Lattice. Just lifting my head thinking about something I needed to do had them do it faster than I could. Their smiles were peaceful, and they held themselves smartly. They ask after me like a snappier version of Rustica. Would you like something to drink? Would you like me to call someone for you? Would you like to go on an outing today? At the beginning, I was wary of their astuteness and attentiveness. I thought there was no way they could actually be paying that much attention to me. But they were so easy to talk to, always watching over me, always ready to help me with anything I needed… Slowly but surely, I stopped being so guarded. Being treated with such care made me feel comfortable and secure. They responded enthusiastically, promptly, and cleverly for everything I asked them except for my requests to leave this place.

Sage's Lattice: Is something wrong, Master Sage?

Akira: Ah… I was thinking about how I'd like more bandages and medicinal herbs for the people who are still wounded…

Sage's Lattice: The Sage's wizards… Oh, I'm so sorry for not realizing sooner. We should have been the ones to ask you if you still thought it was necessary. I will make the arrangements immediately. Could you tell me the names of the herbs you want? As soon as we have them, we will inform both you and Lord Rutile. Until then, please, take care of yourself.

2 - Western Country's Aim

Sage's Lattice: Is there anything else troubling you?

Akira: Um… No, I'm fine. Could you ask everyone else if there's anything you could do for them?

Sage's Lattice: As you wish. If there's anything else you require, I'll arrange for it immediately.

The Western citizens calling themselves the Sage's Lattice all treated me kindly. The people of Central Country had never been rude to me, but they were all very stiff and strict, and gave off a very rigid impression. The people of Western Country, on the other hand, were amiable and would joke around with me, regardless of their status as servants.

✦✧☾✧✦

Sage's Lattice: Good morning, Master Sage. I've baked some cookies for you. They're shaped like cats, birds, and small wizard hats. They're the Sage's trademarks, after all. The black lily mark is lovely as well, of course, but it seems a bit melancholy. Do you like them?

Akira: Ahaha… Thank you.

Sage's Lattice: Ah, I'm happy you do! Your smile is the greatest reward of them all. Please, enjoy your cookies.

In the midst of my confusion and anxiety, their warm hospitality was truly soothing.

✦✧☾✧✦

Sage's Lattice: Welcome back, Master Sage.

Sage's Lattice: Welcome back, Master Sage. How did the inspection you conducted with her Majesty go?

Akira: Rather than an inspection, it was more… I barely left the carriage, and I wasn't able to talk to her Majesty, either.

Sage's Lattice: I see… That's unfortunate.

Akira: How are all of the Sage's wizards?

Sage's Lattice: Some of them are in their rooms, and the rest are walking the gardens. Whom would you like me to escort you to?

Akira: Oh, no, that's not what I was asking.

Sage's Lattice: Understood. Master Sage, if you wouldn't mind terribly, could I have a bit of your time?

Akira: What is it…?

Sage's Lattice: I wanted to properly introduce myself to you. You said you wanted to know our names and our jobs, as well as any special talents we have and whatnot.

Akira: Ah… I'm sorry, I should be the one asking you for that.

I felt terribly embarrassed, and also terribly grateful. How could I have just been asking them to do this and that for me without even knowing their names?

Sage's Lattice: No, that's fine. You're a very busy person, after all. I'm just happy you agreed to make time for me. Now then, allow me to introduce myself.

Akira: Yes, please do.

Almiro: My name is Almiro. I'm the eldest of five siblings, and I'm in charge of sewing and needlework here at the manor. I'm especially good at detailed threadwork.

Akira: Threadwork…? What kind of threadwork do you mean?

His brown eyes sparkled, and he smiled at me.

Almiro: Yes. By combining brightly colored threads, I can create flowers and butterflies.

Akira: Wow…

Almiro: Ah… My apologies. That wasn't a very good explanation…

Akira: Oh, no, no! I was just thinking that I'd like to see some if I got the chance.

Almiro: Really? Well, um, if you want it, I did make you something…

Faust: Excuse me. But you need to put that away.

That was when I heard Faust's voice. His tone was much harder than it usually was. When I looked up, I saw both Faust and Figaro. There were silver wisps of cloud in the bright blue sky, shining like fish scales. I supposed Figaro must've been treating Faust just before they came here, because I could see brand new bandages catching the weak sunlight.

Akira: Figaro, Faust… How are your injuries healing?

Faust: They're fine.

Figaro: They still haven't fully healed. You really shouldn't be pushing yourself, okay?

Faust: …I know that. I'd rather not trouble you more than I already have.

Figaro: That's not what I meant, you know.

The air between them was oddly soft, if a bit awkward. I didn't see any of their usual viciousness in their interactions. I knew that Figaro had saved Faust from his horrible wounds. Maybe the scabbed-over relationship they had was starting to heal, just a little bit.

Almiro: E…excuse me.

As soon as those two had appeared, the young man named Almiro shrank away from me. I felt like I'd done something wrong, but Figaro and Faust just glanced at each other. It looked like they were asking each other if they should really tell me…something. And then two more people stepped up. It was Bradley and Nero. A humid breeze ruffled their hair. The sky beyond them was starting to be stained darker.

Bradley: Whatcha standin' around for? Y'shouldn't be holdin' back when talking to them. They're our head, y'know?

Akira: Bradley… Nero, how's your recovery?

Nero: Oh, there's nothin' more to recover from.

Figaro: That is not true. You shouldn't be pushing yourself either, got that?

Nero: Haha… Sorry, doc.

Faust: Bradley. Akira still has a heavy burden on their shoulders.

Bradley: Yeah, and the longer they carry it, the tougher they'll get.

Figaro: They're already exhausted from all the political intrigue. I'd rather not see our dear Sage turn out like me.

Akira: Wh…what are you talking about?

I glanced around at them, and Bradley shrugged.

Bradley: Y'almost got cursed just now.

Akira: Huh?!

Bradley: Yo curseworker, you do the explainin'.

Faust: Me?

Nero: Man, don't be actin' stuck up around Teach.

Bradley: I just thought it'd be better to hear it from someone who actually knows what they're talkin' about.

Faust: I understand. But before I explain anything, Bradley, there's something I need to say to you.

Bradley: Huh? What's up?

Faust: Thank you for saving Nero back in Northern Country. As the intructor of the Eastern wizards, I need to express my gratitude. Thank you.

Faust bowed his head deeply, and very, very seriously. Bradley's mouth twisted a bit. Maybe he was just surprised, because he did it again. Nero's face stiffened, looking nervous, and he raised one hand for something and then dropped it again.

Nero: It's fine, Teach! Y'don't need to bow your head about it.

Faust: But I couldn't do anything to help you…

Nero: That ain't true! This guy's a Northern wizard, so he's just got more power than he knows what to do with…

Bradley: You wanna say that again?

Faust: You were only saved because Bradley was there. I'm grateful to him from the very bottom of my heart. You are too, aren't you?

Nero: Well…

In the face of Faust's smile, Nero hung his head, looking embarrassed. For some reason, the sight reminded me of a student who had unexpectedly run into their teacher while out with their guardian. Bradley flicked a startled glance at Nero and then focused his gaze on Faust.

Bradley: Yeah, well, you're welcome an' all that.

Figaro: Haha…

Figaro covered his mouth with one hand. I was pretty sure he was hiding an expression a nicer person wouldn't have made.

Nero: Sage. I'm sorry for worryin' you, too.

Akira: No, no… I'm just glad you're both okay now.

I remembered how much I'd sobbed in front of Bradley that day. He'd said it'd be fine, that Figaro would fix them up, and he was completely right. It was only natural that seeing Nero and Faust standing together and smiling would make me smile, too. I once again sent a prayer to the heavens that I wouldn't lose this. I needed to do everything I could to ensure that.

Akira: What did Bradley mean earlier about a curse? Was that young man a wizard…?

Faust: No, he's human. But humans are just as capable of casting curses. He was… They do it more unconsciously.

Akira: What do you mean?

Faust stayed silent for a moment before he began to speak gently, as if he were worried how I'd react.

Faust: By knowing one's name and history, you grow closer and more attached to them. Bonds that should have never existed are born. That's what Western Country is currently aiming for. They want those bonds to become unseen chains trapping you.

I looked back at Almiro. He was standing not far from us, smiling cordially, but worriedly. I recalled when I'd hugged Saku-chan tightly in my arms a few days ago, and suddenly, my breath came short.

Akira: So you mean…?

Faust: You are the Sage who will save this world. But you carry a heavy obligation, and there are those who might see you as a person in power. There are many people who want to capture the hearts of those in power, given those people are key in decision-making processes.

Akira: Like…what Figaro said to me a while ago?

Figaro: Me?

Akira: You said you wanted to turn me into your puppet.

Faust: You…

Bradley: Bastard…

Nero: You're the worst…

Figaro: Wait, wait, wait, that's not true. Huh? No, well, it is true. But I'm glad I got to make for a good sample. It was artless and not likely to work, but it seems my approach was still worth something. Anyways, Faust, keep explaining.

Faust: Before that, could you explain why you wanted to try an artless and unreliable approach like that…?

Figaro: Hold it. Hold on. It's not like there's an interesting story or anything behind it.

Bradley: I can't believe you'd even go after the Sage… That's like askin' a toddler to get drunk with you.

Nero: Sage, are you okay? Did anyone else ask you to do anythin' weird?

Akira: No, I'm fine! The only other one that sticks out is Bradley asking me to be his underling…

Figaro: His underling? That's not sexy at all.

Bradley: Why would I wanna be sexy for a brat like this?

Nero: Bastard, don't go around saying you want the Sage for an underling, either.

Faust: …Anyway. Just like this, a jumble of different intentions and ulterior motives will sprout up around anyone in power.

Akira: Okay.

Figaro: And imperial courts are always ripe with intrigue. There's even a few swirling around in Central Country.

Bradley: Central Country's conspiracies are just overly serious people squarin' off against other overly serious people. It's like they're just playin' Old Maid. But we're in Western Country now. They know more about people's desires than anywhere else. It's a damn scary place to be.

Akira: …So, um, what should I be getting from this, exactly?

Faust: People are forming bonds of obligation around you intentionally. These bonds are meant to contain you and keep you from moving the way you want to. Once you learn their names and get to know them, you'll never be able to escape them. If you let them, they will consume your heart to the best of their abilities. You're a well-loved and very useful game piece, after all.

Akira: So those people are trying to trick me…?

Figaro: That's how Western Country is. They're very good at carefully crafting their plots to drag people to ruin.

Figaro shrugged carelessly. He seemed to be a bit impressed with the act they were putting on.

Figaro: Master Sage, between Shylock and Heathcliff, which do you think is better at putting on an act?

Akira: Huh?! I mean, I don't want to say either of them are, but…

Figaro: You're so honest. Indecisiveness is the path to ruin, you know.

Akira: I guess if I'm being forced to pick, I'd say Shylock… I guess it just feels like he's more accustomed to the strategies that adults need to utilize.

Figaro: Exactly. He can see through how kind and gentle you are with ease, and they've already picked up on that, too. And so they gathered up good-hearted, talented people. The Sage's Lattice. They let them get close to you…

Akira: So that I would listen to what they ask me to?

Figaro: You're being naiive.

Figaro's smile became bitter.

3 - Layer upon Layer

Figaro: If it were me, I'd tell them I'm going to kill them. If they value their lives then they should do what I say, that kind of thing.

I felt the blood drain out of my face. Figaro kept talking, his voice as gentle and smooth as it would be if he were telling me a fairy tale.

Figaro: Of course, you wouldn't publicly threaten them. You'd take their families hostage so that they'd try to butter you up and follow all your orders. If you had to leave Western Country, you should tell them that they have to take responsibility for that. Their desperation will exhaust them. You're a kind person, though, so you embrace their attachment to you. And because of that, you get drawn into the cage they've made for you. And that is what makes a curse.

I was aghast. Drops of rain began to fall from the sky. There were still bits of blue sky peeking through the clouds, but the rain fell despite that, leaving dark spots on the ground wherever the drops made contact. A single word or action of mine could rob innocent people of their lives. I tried to look back at Armilo and the rest of the Sage's Lattice, and found I couldn't. I was scared of seeing their smiling faces, even though they weren't at fault here.

Nero: …D'ya think you could phrase it maybe a little less stressfully?

Nero interjected softly, as if he were trying to protect me. I couldn't bring myself to look up at him, but I felt his hand, gentle on my back. He cast some kind of spell on me, I think. Even as the downpour continued, none of the raindrops hit me.

Nero: The Sage ain't responsible for any of this. They just don't know how to deal with this kinda situation. If this keeps up, they'll collapse.

Figaro: Of course I'm not trying to blame them. I'm just trying to make the enemy's goal easy for them to understand. I'm sorry if I scared you too much, Master Sage.

Akira: No… It's fine.

Bradley: Pretty sure they've got their sights set on more than just the Sage. What about that group that came to see you Southies earlier?

Figaro: They were a group of people who immigrated to Western Country from Southern Country. They said they wanted to convey the beauty of Southern Country to Western Country with the Sage's wizards' help.

Nero: The Southern sense of community is real strong, huh… Y'just can't ignore 'em if they say somethin' like that to you.

Bradley: Western Country's doin' great at playing on everyone's heartstrings. They're takin' advantage of the South's love for their home… How's it going on the Eastern side of things?

Faust: …A messenger from Blanchett came to see Heathcliff. The Eastern court told him to respond respectfully to the new Western queen's requests.

Bradley: Everything in the East is tied down by social obligations, huh.

Figaro: There's not much the heir to the Blanchett name can do when it's a direct demand from the Eastern throne.

Faust: Heath is to remain here for the time being. And as long as he's staying in the West, I can't return to the Central manor, either.

Nero: Same goes for Shino, and I'm going along with what these guys are doing.

Akira: How are the Northern wizards doing…?

Bradley: Northern wizards are all free. There's no way we can get trapped here, yeah? When we wanna leave, we'll leave. That's the thing, though. They didn't even have to lock the door to get you trapped in here.

Bradley was completely right. If I wanted to, I could leave right this second. Oz or Mithra's magic would make it as simple as that. But I had the feeling that if I did, something bad was going to happen.

Cain: Akira.

Shylock: Master Sage.

At Cain and Shylock's voices, I lifted my head. At some point, the rain had turned into a full-fledged downpour. Almiro bowed to Shylock as he approached, but his expression was not a happy one.

Akira: What's wrong? Has something happened with Rustica's condition…

Shylock: While Rustica is still a concern, a report about a strange incident has arrived from the Western government.

Akira: A strange incident…?

Shylock: An unknown monster has been making appearances in the red-light district responsible for Western Country's sacred wine, and attacking people by cover of night.

Akira: Isn't that near where your bar is, Shylock…?

Shylock: Yes, it is. Murr and I were asked to conduct the initial investigation, as we are familiar with the geography there.

Figaro: They named you specifically?

Bradley: And they still ain't said anything about the doll things that were goin' nuts underneath that playhouse?

Shylock: Yes, that's all correct. I thought I should consult with Master Sage about whether or not to accept. If a monster has appeared, I am certainly worried for my shop…but at the same time, I'm worried for Chloe and Rustica.

Akira: …How's Rustica doing? Is he still in that room at the top of the tower…?

Shylock: Yes…

Asking Shylock that made me remember what had happened at the coronation. Moment by moment, different parts of Rustica had dissolved into feathers… He softly, gently, delicately came apart at the seams. It was like I'd slipped into a dreamscape.

Shylock: Figaro, Oz, and Faust have all observed his current state… And have determined that it's not the result of another person's magic or even a curse.

Akira: Then…what's happened to him…?

Shylock closed his eyes and spoke gently, his voice heavy with grief.

Shylock: Rustica's magic has gotten away from him.

Akira: It's…what…?

Shylock: Magic is cast from the heart, you see. The state of one's heart and one's magic are very, very deeply intertwined. Even if one should think themself to be doing perfectly fine, if their heart has been damaged and put off-balance… They will no longer be able to control their magic.

If a wizard's heart was in disarray, they'd lose control of their magic.

Akira: (I think I did hear something similar before…) (After Oz let Arthur leave, once he was alone again, a horrible blizzard raged around the entire country…) (He hadn't done it on purpose… It was something he couldn't keep himself from doing…)

Thinking of Oz's grief and solitude again made my chest ache painfully. Was that how much pain Rustica was feeling in his heart right now? How could this happen to someone as kind and gentle as him… I couldn't forgive whatever had hurt him, so I wouldn't. Even if I couldn't even put a name to what it was. Right now, even as we spoke, a storm was raging inside of Rustica, wreaking havoc inside of him.

Shylock: …I'm not sure if something happened to Rustica. But according to Chloe, he was taken by a white-haired wizard.

Faust: …Was it Nova?

Shylock: Most likely… You said you also had an encounter with him in Eastern Country, did you not?

Faust: Yeah. He'd tied together the space of a number of places, not just Eastern Country. There was the inn in the City of Rain, the depths of Djura Forest…

Bradley: Plus an underground waterway below an abandoned theater in the West and a snowfield in Northern Country.

Nero: How's the lady we found in the waterway…?

Faust: Oz took Tanya back to her home. It's a relief that she wasn't too badly injured.

Cain: If Nova took Rustica to a tower inside the Western royal palace… I'd prefer not to mistrust a neighboring nation, but… Doesn't this mean there really is some connection between Nova and Western Country?

Figaro: Do you know anything, Shylock? Well, not that you've ever enjoyed mingling with the Western government or royal family. But Murr was close with them, wasn't he? And it certainly seems like there might be a fragment of his soul working behind the scenes here.

Shylock: Murr's only aim in getting close with the royal family was securing more funding for his research. He has never been someone interested in political manipulations. Not to mention the shattering of his soul was exactly that. The pieces shouldn't be capable of proper communication.

Bradley: But they're starting to manifest bodies of their own now.

Shylock: …

Bradley: Shylock. Your boytoy's already a pain in the ass as an ally, but you know he'd be even worse as our enemy.

Shylock: He is not my "boytoy", though I do agree with your assessment that he's a pain.

Shylock took a deep breath, and then cast his gaze up to the top of the tower. The tower that had Rustica residing in its uppermost spire.

Shylock: …It seems the person in that tower is ensuring Rustica's condition doesn't worsen. I believe Chloe said something about Rustica's room seeming similar to his mana area…

A mana area is a location that puts a wizard's heart at ease, letting their spirit recover more easily. There are those tied to a particular area, and those tied more vaguely, like to a kind of scenery. Rustica had told me what his mana area was before. A tea table for two, set by a window. I tried to picture Rustica sitting there by the window, drinking tea, but it didn't go very well. It kept changing to an image of white feathers fluttering down to the windowsill.

Faust: …If that's the case, we shouldn't remove him from there if we don't have to. I…went through something similar in the past, and pushing myself to move was so exhausting it felt like sinking into a tar pit. Until my mind and body had recovered, I couldn't move properly. Thinking back on it now, I feel as though if I'd pushed myself too much back then, "I" would have disappeared and been replaced by something else.

Akira: "You" would have disappeared…

Figaro: …How long did your recovery take?

Faust: Several decades passed before I noticed. It was close to a hundred years before I was fully recovered.

Shylock: A hundred years…

Nero: …That's a ridiculously long time… Mister Knight, how's Central Country?

Cain: The political talks are proceeding extremely carefully so that conflict doesn't end up sparking with the West. As much as I want to out and out say that the Sage's wizards and the manor don't belong to Western Country…

Bradley: They don't belong to Central, either.

Cain: Exactly. Times like this are when we'd want Eastern Country to mediate, but…

Figaro: Given Heathcliff's situation, the West has already finished their work with the East.

Faust: What work?

Figaro: Ensuring their neutrality. They're probably rubbing shoulders with Western officials.

Cain: Prince Arthur has already received approval to return home if he wishes. The new queen doesn't seem to want to strip him of his freedom, at the very least. Though there is still something worrying me… Shylock, do you know a witch named Sylves?

Shylock: Yes, she's a friend of mine. I'd also like to extend my thanks to Bradley for saving her life recently.

Nero: He did that?

Bradley: I didn't do anythin' special. So what's up with Sylves?

Cain: It's something she said when I met with her. She said if the West's Queen Liliana were to be engaged to Central's Prince Arthur, the two nations would have peace.

Faust & Figaro: What?

Nero: Hey, man… The prince ain't even twenty yet, is he?

Figaro: Does Oz know about this? How did he react?

Cain: Oz wasn't there when the conversation happened. The whole engagement talk was all Sylves's speculation, too. That said, I doubt the Western royal family hasn't given it some thought.

Akira: An engagement… But Queen Liliana already has a lover.

Cain: She does? Do you mean Gregory?

Akira: Yes.

Bradley: Y'mean that bird that keeps fluttering around you?

Akira: Yes, that's him. Right now he's with Lennox, checking out the area.

Bradley: She's got a bird for a fiance?

Shylock: He was turned into a bird with magic, dear.

Cain: Sounds like things have been rough all over, huh…

Shylock: To an excess, yes…

Everyone fell silent. We were all at a bit of a loss. There was a massive tangled up web in front of us, and none of us had the energy to try and untangle it. But then… As if trying to clear away this heavy atmosphere, we heard a clear and refreshing melody. The wind and rain carried it down from the top of the tower. Rustica was playing the piano. It was a refined yet gentle song. It was delicate, but not weak in the slightest. It was refined, but not a stranger to staunch determination. With this song at its side, it felt like the rain was washing away the heaviness of our hearts.

4 - I Want to Go Back

Akira: Rustica…

Even when his heart was fit to break from grief, from something trying to dig its claws into him, he was still… The type of person who tried to kindly offer comfort to those soaked by the rain.

Akira: (That's right… This is what Rustica taught me.) (An orchestra always has a conductor.) (With a conductor to lead them, discordant noise is turned into a single, beautiful song.) (Regardless of if it's annoying or tedious or stressful, in times of hardship, everyone needs to work together.) (And bringing everyone together is a conductor's strength…)

While I'd been thinking, everyone else had turned their eyes up to the tower as well. Instead of sunlight breaking through the ominous grey clouds, we had the shapeless form of music raining gently down on us.

Akira: …You guys remember what Rustica always said, no matter what he was up against? He'd always say, "How lovely." So I'm sure that even right now, we can find something lovely somewhere, no matter how horrible and depressing things have gotten.

Shylock: Master Sage…

Akira: Like, umm… Like how all of us gathered here to discuss things, like it was only natural.

Bradley: …

Akira: All of you could've just stayed quiet or decided to solve things on your own, but instead…

Figaro: …

Akira: But instead, you came here…where both I and your comrades were waiting for you… I think that's lovely… And it's made me very happy.

Faust: …I think you're right.

Akira: I'm sure even those of us who haven't joined us here are thinking of their comrades, too.

Cain: I think so, too. Used to be that when we were done fighting against <the Great Calamity>, Mithra and Owen would just up and vanish. Oz did, too. …But now, all of them are still here with us.

Nero: That's true… I wonder why.

Shylock: Fufu… It's a newly found and lovely, but strange, thing. Just one of many, I'm sure.

I smiled, just a bit. Just then, I heard Chloe call for me.

Chloe: Master Sage!

Murr: Hello there.

I looked over my shoulder and saw Chloe running towards us, my coat over his arm. At some point, both the gloomy rain and gentle piano playing had come to a stop. Bright sunlight had replaced dark clouds, and I saw a rainbow painted across the blue sky. A strong wind blew, catching my coat in its embrace--although Chloe still kept a tight hold on it. Chloe looked like he'd just gotten done crying, but he was smiling, his eyes meeting mine easily.

Chloe: Master Sage, I finished sewing in your new pocket. And I already put the shard of Murr's soul in, too.

It was behind an emblem that he'd embroidered on. It was a crest formed by different leaves and flowers. Chloe grinned and looked back at the shard of Murr.

Chloe: The design was at this Murr's request. He likes plants, so I thought it'd be nice if I made a pattern with some of nature's bounty.

Chloe's clever mind and kindness were clearly apparent in each and every stitch. The shard of Murr, seeming satisfied, took a bow.

Murr: This boy has an excellent sense for these kinds of things. I'm deeply grateful for his hard work in creating a pocket that will ensure I won't be easily dropped. I simply must do something to thank him for making something so lovely. Now then, Master Sage.

Murr lifted the brim of his hat, looking up at the rainbow above.

Murr: Western Country is a country of various lusts. People lose themselves in interest, curiosity, even love and excitement, as if it were a labyrinth with no exit. While for those who have already had the flames of passion lit within their hearts, this is a fun place where like-minded peers gather… For those whose hearts are empty, it takes only moments for the predators of this city to descend upon them, hands beckoning, and light their hearts on fire for them. This could be a fortuitous meeting, yes. But it could just as easily be the lighting of a false flame, steeped in anxiety and loneliness. And that would be a true tragedy. For you would be made to waltz with a flame you never wanted for in the first place as your partner. When one fire is lit, the heart turns one way, and when another is lit, it turns another way. Eventually, it simply burns itself out… And all shall turn to ash. This is the truth of the fearsome Western Country's lust. But please, do not misunderstand. Lusts, desires, and passions are all wonderful things. They enrich one's life, encouraging growth and evolution. But it's essential that you are the master of your own desires. You mustn't become a slave to them. Those in power in this country are well aware that if people are enslaved by their desires, they can bend them to their will. And why would that be? Because I instructed them on how to do so when I acted as advisor. I'm sure documents from that period still survive today.

Figaro: You've certainly been up to no good…

Murr: The Western powers that be set a trap, you see. Merely witnessing it, much less coming in contact with it, creates a desire that should have never existed in the first place. Or perhaps, they shall whisper of fear and anxiety into your ears. Preparing to drive away one's fears makes one feel safe--and is yet another desire that was never meant to exist. It replaced whatever it was you truly desired--much like a stage magician misdirecting you with sleight of hand.

The fragment of Murr narrowed his eyes, as if he were frightened. I, too, found myself somewhat anxious. Was what I wanted from the very bottom of my heart…really something that I wanted? Or was it something that someone else had planted in me? It only took a few seconds for me to become scared of that, lost in a labyrinth of my own thoughts that I couldn't find my way out of. But then, just as suddenly, Murr gave me a bright and cheerful smile.

Murr: That said, a magic trick is nothing more than just that: a trick. Deceptions will inevitably run their course and disappear. That trick is thus nothing more than a set dressing.

Akira: A set dressing?

This shard of Murr's soul smiled at me, backed by the seven-colored arc in the sky above him.

Murr: Yes. A set dressing. Isn't it a good term? You haven't been locked in a cage, and yet you still feel as though the exit has been blocked. Your problems beget further problems, and you find yourself mired in a swamp, the fronds of aquatic plants twisting about your ankles in the muck.

I nodded several times. He was right on the money.

Akira: Yes. That's exactly how I feel.

Murr snapped his fingers right in front of my face.

Murr: Like this.

Bradley: …Ain't this guy kinda…overly pretentious?

Shylock: Not as much as the real thing, no.

Murr: The right lighting can make a piece of glass look like a precious gem. A strange sound in the night can call upon one's fear of what lurks in the darkness just ahead. A set dressing draws deliberate attention to something small and insignificant, or even something nonexistent. There are, of course, also ways to turn something vastly important into something small and beneath notice. You may ask, but why are such set dressings so important? It's because the authenticity that the director desires is simply nowhere to be found.

Figaro: The authenticity isn't there…?

Murr: Precisely. The West lacks the North's tenacity, the East's craftsmanship, the South's solidarity, and Central's sincerity. In other words, dear Sage, it's exactly as you thought. You have not been locked inside a cage. Neither Western Country nor the new Queen has the power to deprive you or the Sage's wizards of their freedom. It simply appears that your freedom has been stolen. Intricately abstruse and interconnected problems have simply been layered up in front of you. They are temptations and illusions. Tricks and sleights of hand. This is what the passion and desire-loving Western Country specializes in.

The shard of Murr smiled and took my hand.

Murr: If you remove the set pieces from the stage, you'll see what her Majesty's true intentions are. Taking the offensive means showing one's cards. And thus, one's true motives. I'm sure we'll see them soon, even now. Despite making you stand out so brilliantly at the coronation ceremony, she hasn't deigned to even hold a simple conversation with you. Murr and Shylock are to leave on a mission. Rustica is locked in a tower. Oz and Mithra are being left to their own devices. There are those that they want to keep away, and those they'd prefer to keep close at hand. They aren't fearing those that perhaps they should.

Bradley: They sure aren't. If I were gonna put some kinda conspiracy in motion, I'd wanna make sure Oz and Mithra are nowhere near it.

Shylock: Would the request Murr and I have been given be for the sake of keeping us out of things, then?

Murr: That's right. Even though they requested the two of you by name, they won't make any attempt to contact you about it. Among the Western Sage's wizards, you're the one the others call their teacher. Were I the young queen, I'd certainly try to make the most of you. Should I truly want to bring Western Country prosperity alongside the Sage and their wizards, that is. Shall we reveal what the new queen is trying to hide with what she endeavors to highlight, using her little magic tricks? You have nothing to fear. After all, you have a perfect lineup of pieces who excel at court intrigue and political uprisings here.

The people who knew he meant them all reacted in their own ways. Some of them puffed their chests out proudly, while others simply stood in the winds of ignorance. Words were strange things. Just a little bit before, I'd felt like I couldn't move even a single step forward. But now, something was definitely different. Just a little bit before, my shoulders had felt heavy with fatigue, but now I felt excited, like I was watching the opening to a show. The rain had cleared the air. I took a deep breath and smiled.

Akira: Thank you, all of you… So that we can protect the world from <the Great Calamity>, we need to catch Nova… Return Rustica to his normal self… And go home to the manor in Central. I won't say I'm not enjoying my time here, but I think I'd prefer to only come here every once in a while, sort of like a vacation home…? I want to return to the place where I first met you all. I'd like you to please help me achieve these goals. If you don't mind.

Shylock: But of course, Master Sage.

Bradley: Sounds good to me. Let's fulfill every one of your selfish wishes.

Everyone smiled and nodded in agreement. I'm sure even the wizards who weren't present would've responded the same way. I was capable of thinking that now.

✦✧☾✧✦

After we parted with everyone else, Chloe came with me to my room. He wanted to talk about Rustica.

Chloe: …It's not something I want anyone else to know about, so I haven't told Shylock or Murr about it. If Rustica hadn't ended up like this, I'm sure that I'd still be going back and forth on if I should even tell you or not, Master Sage… But I think maybe we can figure out a hint towards helping Rustica together… So I wanted to talk to you about it, at the very least. About the Rustica that I heard about from Kelvin, in the Royal Botanical Gardens…

Akira: About Rustica…? Please tell me. I want to know what you heard.

It took Chloe some time to tell me everything. He talked about Rustica's birth. About Western Country's history with the Ferch family. About the twin queens, Aria and Zara. About how Zara had turned Aria into a songbird, and about how Rustica had killed Aria, his own bride.

Akira: …I can't believe it. How could someone like Rustica do something like that…

Chloe: That's how I feel, too… Like, if it's true, then I'm sure there's some kind of reason for why he did that. Since things connected to his bride and his past are so painful for him that he had no choice but to forget them all…

Chloe's grief was clear on his face, but he still forced a stiff, clumsy smile.

Chloe: Hey, Master Sage. Did you know? I always hated Rustica's forgetfulness. The way he didn't mind that he forgets things seemed so sad to me… And that's why I wanted him to remember. But now, I'm fine with it either way. If it'll bring Rustica back to normal, then it's fine… Hey, Master Sage… You saw how Rustica's all made up of feathers now, right? It's so horrible. He can't control his magic anymore because his heart's been wounded. That's what Shylock told me. But that's so horrible… If he's sad, then he should be able to cry. But turning to feathers while smiling is so…

Chloe stopped short, pressing his trembling lips together tightly, and then took a deep breath. He leaned forward, putting his hands on his knees, and then looked out the window. His expression as he gazed up at the tall tower could never be considered "weak". If anything, it was very, very angry.

Chloe: They used to say he was beloved by the sun and the moon… …That's amazing, don't you think? But… No matter how much money Rustica has, no matter how much he loves the people around him, even if it's let him live a life full of happiness… Times that are sad…should be sad. When you're sad, you should be able to cry, right? But Rustica's still smiling, even when he's crumbling to feathers… I bet no one ever taught him how to do anything else. Rustica only ever knew happiness, and never sadness or misfortune. And that's why I don't know what to do for him right now…

Chloe's features contorted weakly. His violet eyes were wet with tears, but he didn't let any of those tears fall. He straightened himself up, an attempt to feel stronger.

Chloe: …Rustica's taught me all sorts of things about happiness. So now it's my turn to teach him something. I'll teach Rustica about…sadness and misfortune.

Chloe closed his eyes. He smiled softly, a shadow of melancholy settling over his eyelashes. It was the expression of someone young and innocent, and at the same time, that of someone world-wise and weary.

Chloe: I wonder if…Rustica will hate me for teaching him these kinds of things. But I'd hate losing him even more. I'll do it little by little, so that I don't startle him…so that he can cry well… So that he can learn how to be sad. It'll be fine… Any article of clothing can suit Rustica. So I'm sure sadness and misfortune will suit him, too.

I said nothing in response to Chloe's confession. Perhaps this was the first step towards a solution, or perhaps it was the first line in a tragedy. A gentle child like Chloe teaching the person he loved what sadness was could've been either. But even if this were to be a cruel story, his eyes were still full of love. He had tightly embraced this unwavering conviction.

5 - Before My Beloved

Rustica: …

I was staring aimlessly out the window. In fact, I might have even dozed off a little bit. The window had been left slightly ajar, and I could feel a pleasant wind blowing in, dusting my skin. The sunset had dyed the entire world with its beautiful light, like honey-covered candy. Soon, this day would end. Twilight always felt somewhat melancholy, but today had still been another lovely day. I'm sure tomorrow will be just as lovely. I heard a sound, and turned my head.

Chloe: …Rustica…

Rustica: Hello.

That was how I responded to them. The reason I didn't say their name was because I couldn't quite place it. Who could this person be? While I stood there, trying and failing to recall who they were, their gaze faltered, and they glanced away, seeming upset. They smiled, but it seemed to be a terribly lonely smile.

Chloe: Um… I brought tea.

Rustica: Ah, I thought so. It smells wonderful.

Chloe: I hope you like it.

They smiled, carefully picking up the teapot. And, with careful deliberation, tilted it. A stream of amber liquid began to pour out of it, collecting neatly in one of the cups below. I could see them staring at me through the white cloud of steam. Their eyes were the color of twilight. The color of violets.

Chloe: …Ah…

Our eyes met, and my guest gasped softly. Their hand shook, just a bit, and a drop of liquid fell onto the saucer. They seemed positively heartbroken to have marred the white ceramic, even just this little bit. It was as if the world had just ended. They hung their head, ashamed.

Chloe: I'm sorry… Normally I can…do this much…better than that, at least…

I was more worried about if any of the spilled tea had gotten on them. It was quite hot, after all.

Rustica: You didn't burn yourself, did you?

Chloe: Huh?

Rustica: Pardon me. Could I see your hand?

I touched one of their fingers, and their violet eyes widened as they froze in place.

Chloe: …

With a touch of magic, I soothed their skin where they'd been splashed. They forgot how to breathe for a moment, and then smiled at me.

Rustica: You should be just fine now. Please remember to breathe.

Chloe: …ah…

Having been reminded to, they finally took another breath. I knew I was rather forgetful, but wasn't someone forgetting to breathe like that rather unusual?

Rustica: Thank you for making tea for me.

Chloe: Y…you're welcome.

Rustica: It's a beautiful evening, isn't it?

Chloe: It…it is.

We watched the encroach of twilight together. The setting sun began to burn red, singeing the wisps of clouds in the sky. It was a spectacle that invited music to be played alongside it. A peaceful and tranquil planet, wreathed in rose-colored flames. But when I looked at my guest next to me, they weren't looking out the window.

Chloe: …

They were looking at me instead. They were trying to hide their shaking breaths, cheeks wet with tears. I was startled, but smiled at them regardless.

Rustica: What's wrong?

They quickly covered their face, their head drooping like a wilting flower. They shook their head, staying silent. Their glasslike tears fell like raindrops. I was worried for them, and wanted to at least help dry their tears. I reached a hand towards their face.

Chloe: …ah!

Their violet eyes widened, and they found enough energy to reach towards me, too. I must have fallen backwards, though I didn't feel any pain. I saw white feathers dancing through the air.

Chloe: Rustica… Rustica…!

My guest fell to their knees and took me into their arms, as if they were trying to gather all of me up. I put my arms around them, as well. Above their back, I could see more feathers, elegant as a musician's fingers. Really, I wonder who they are? They looked like Chloe, but they weren't him.

Chloe: …Oh, Lord Rustica…

Rustica: Could you tell me who you are?

I murmured that into their ear. And once again, they forgot how to breathe. And then they vanished, taken by the evening breeze.

✦✧☾✧✦

Chloe: Haah… …haah…

Zara: …haah… … …Lord Rustica…

✦✧☾✧✦

Aria: Zara, what did you think? Did you like Lord Rustica? I want to hear your thoughts.

Zara: I think he's absolutely lovely, Aria. We had a wonderful time together.

Aria: Oh, thank goodness. That was what I was hoping, of course, but I wanted to hear what you had to say first… Your opinions have always been of the utmost importance to me, ever since we were born. Even when picking out clothes or jewels.

Zara: That's because our tastes are similar. We always like the same things as one another.

Aria: We do. I'm so glad… I do love Lord Rustica dearly, but if you had objected, Zara, I would've had to reconsider.

Zara: Of course you're nervous. After all, you're going to be his bride.

Aria: It's still so hard to believe… Even just daydreaming about it makes me so terribly happy.

Zara: Don't worry. I know you'll be the world's happiest, most beautiful bride, Aria.

Aria: Fufu… Lord Rustica said the same thing.

Zara: Did he? …Did he… Did Lord Rustica say anything about me…?

Aria: He said that you're beautiful, well suited for the gentle rays of the sun. And that he wants an outing with all three of us one day.

Zara: …

Aria: I bragged all about you! It was so much fun.

Zara: Did you… I'm so happy… Even just that much is more than enough. Be happy with him, Aria.

Aria: Thank you, Zara.

✦✧☾✧✦

Aria: …Zara, Zara…!

Zara: What's wrong, Aria?! Why are you crying?!

Aria: …L-Lord Rustica has…

Zara: Did… Did he do something to you…?!

Aria: No, that's not it! I felt him staring at me as I walked by the lake… Lord Rustica embraced me. …I thought my heart would fall to pieces… I still feel as though I'm in a dream…

Zara: … (How nice for her…) (I'm so jealous…) (Even though he should've been my husband, not hers.) (Because I'm a witch…) (No… Even though Lord Rustica is a wizard, he doesn't sneak through the shadows as I do.) (They'll allow him to do things they'd never allow me…) (They don't have to keep hiding me away. It's not too late for them to stop…) (If Father were to announce my existence here, I would become Lord Rustica's betrothed…) (…No. That will never happen. The crown can't simply announce to the people that they've been hiding things from them…) (If Mother and Father were ever going to say anything about me, then I would've never been locked up here in the first place…)

Aria: Zara. So then… Are you listening?

Zara: …I'm sorry. I'm not feeling well.

Aria: Zara?

Zara: Leave.

Aria: Zara…

Zara: Get out of here this second! … …uu…sniff…hic… …Ahh, why… Even though I worked so hard not to hate humans…

✦✧☾✧✦

Zara: …Aria…has stopped coming to this room… I don't mind what happened earlier… The next time she comes, I should apologize properly… I can't believe I yelled at her like that… But Aria was so scared, so I don't mind that it happened… …Ah… Is that Aria laughing…? …Lord Rustica and Aria are walking through the garden together… What a blissful sight… They must be blessed by everyone in the world. The perfect picture of a happy bride and groom… …How nice… Why isn't it me out there…?

✦✧☾✧✦

Aria: Zara… I--I'm really…I'm so sorry…

Zara: …

Aria: Even Francesca told me I should've been considering your feelings more… I've been so insensitive…I'm so, so sorry…

Zara: …What are you apologizing for, Aria? There's not a thing wrong with you.

Aria: But…

Zara: What does Francesca know? She's just a country girl who loves gossip. I love you, Aria.

Aria: …

Zara: What's wrong, dearest? Did you think I'd be upset?

Aria: …I was wondering if…Zara, if I can make it happen somehow, do you want to get married before me…?

Zara: … And if I did?

Aria: …

Zara: If I did, what would you do?

Aria: I… I'll persuade Father! I'll have him find you a fiance that's just as lovely.

Zara: Haha…

Aria: I'll give up my wedding date to you, too! You're the elder sister, after all. So if you want to have your wedding first, then of course…

Zara: …Oh, my kindhearted Aria… My adorable twin sister. You've always been so skilled at using that kindness of yours to make me feel absolutely wretched, haven't you?

Aria: Zara…

Zara: I'm happy to hear about how much you'd be willing to sacrifice for me. But did you think about any of it, for even a second? Did you never realize that every single privilege you enjoy should have been mine from the very start? You were the one who was given everything!

Aria: …!

Zara: Ahaha… She was scared. She thought I was scary. Even though she said she loves me. …Liar. I hate her more than anything. Well, that's fine… I'll just curse her for it. I am a witch, after all. Fufu… …ugh. I don't even know how to curse someone… I've never had a single wizard friend to teach me. I listened to them and stayed here as long as they wanted me to, and they left me with no one… …uu…hic…sniff… Lord Rustica… I'm glad I at least got one fairytale-like day with you… You said that gentle sunlight suits me… No, it doesn't matter anymore… I've always been the foolish one here. I was the one following the rules of people who never let me be one of them. From now on, I'll be the one to decide the rules… I'll decide what words will curse you. I'll decide what ritual curses you. My hand will be the one that curses you. I am no longer a queen of Western Country, no longer the pitiful girl they locked away! I am the Western witch, Zara! That is who I am! Aria, Rustica. I'm going to rip your love to pieces and steal this country away from you. Aria. You, I shall curse to be a bird. You shall be forgotten by both your lover and your family, flying far to the distant skies alone! I hope someone catches you. I hope you're forced to live in a cage just as I was. I'll give that to you! …I can imagine Rustica will search for her, though… I won't let Aria live being the only pure and unsullied one of us. She is me. I am her. I'm sure she harbors sentiments even more disgusting than my own. Should my curse on her be lifted, should she resent me, should she blame me, should she begrudge me even the slightest bit… She should become a savage monster, and begin her rampage. Right there, before her beloved's eyes.

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