Main story 2 - Chapter 13

[centralgoldstar]

Part 13: The House of Wizards and the Unsettling Visitor

 

Part 13.1 Figaro’s Guide

Figaro: So, a Sage’s Guide, huh.

Figaro: …..

I caress the cover of the Sage’s Guide that Akira gave me. Some time ago, I opened a clinic in the Southern Country and so kept a simple record of my work as a doctor. However, it’s been a while since I last wrote something like a personal diary or a log.

*Flashback*

When we started the development of Southern Country, I kept a record to keep track of how far the people had moved. That was an important task. Even if it looked like a list of simple incidents, you might notice something when you looked at what was written with an objective view. The next settlement was three days of travel away. It would take a week to travel to the town by the lake. If you had a horse, you could go twice as fast. Or something like, the stomachache of that patient only happened when they ate certain things.

*End flashback*

What Akira requested is vague. What do they want to know? What do they want to find out? How much details do they want? And even so, perhaps they may be seized by anxiety and will delete it all.

*Flashback*

Akira: I would like you to report to me about what happens and how you wield your leadership, so that I can fulfil my duty without error when the day I have to be in such a position comes.

*End flashback*

I recall the face of the gentle-hearted Akira and smile ruefully.

Figaro: (They want me to tell them things that I witness from my point of view, huh. What would you do if you see the world as I do, Master Sage?)

I leave the room without taking the Sage’s Guide with me. It will be enough if I provide a simple version of events, enough so that Akira won’t be disappointed. Or perhaps it won’t be a problem if I really write down what I have.

I like Akira. They give a good impression. They’re hardworking. And they try their best to be our ally. I want to protect them and make them happy to the best of my ability.

However, I won’t be with Akira for long. Even if I pour out everything I have like wine that freely flows from its bottle and really talk, so much that it terrifies and disappoints Akira…

The glass will tip over. The Sage will disappear to somewhere and never to be seen again.

I should just be completely casual about this. I like this kind of relationship when two people talk to each other as much as they like when the mood is good then part ways without entanglement.

Figaro: (On the other hand, I played around casually too much, so now not much is left for me. Something irreplaceable that belongs to only me).

It’s important to keep records. I stopped keeping a diary because I was fed up with details that came up again and again. Meeting people, getting hurt by them, getting tired of them, getting disappointed, hiding my disappointment and smiling. And softly like brushing dirt aside, separation. The same things happened time and time again, so I’m fed up with this world. However, I’m even more fed up with myself when I’m like that.

Lennox: Good morning, Doctor Figaro.

When I walk by the tower of the Magic Manor on my way to the rendezvous point, I meet Lennox. He is a former Central wizard who prefers to do everything manually instead of using magic. In the present, he keeps sheep. This man once spent 400 years to find his lord, who had disappeared without a trace, having not a clue and relying purely on his faith and dedication.

Figaro: (Is that something a normal person can do?)

What he did can only be carried out by a sick person who has stopped all thinking in their head. No way I can imitate that. On the other hand, perhaps instead of calling Leno a fool, one should say that this world is valuable because of someone like him is in it.

What a strange man.

Figaro: Good morning. You’re early.

Lennox: You don’t look good. What’s the problem?

Figaro: It’s impolite to tell someone they look bad, you know.

Lennox: Not that I like it but shall I praise you?

Figaro: Oh please. You misunderstood me. Please stop your masochist act.

Lennox: Hah. Huh? Masochist act?

Figaro: What did you do just now?

Lennox: I went to see Lord Faust off.

Figaro: Ah.

Following Lennox’ gaze, I look at the tower of the Magic Manor. Through a window pane, I can see him. Faust, my former disciple. My heart hurts whenever I think about him, the same way as I feel when I think about the homeland that I’ve lost or when I recall the species that was exterminated.

Part 13.2 The past that I let go of and the sweet lingering attachment

Figaro: (I’m fed up with a lot of my companions, but I’ve never been disappointed about Faust. He was everything I could hope for. He was too perfect, such that my Masters the twins used to tease me by asking if he was a magical construction tailor made for me. He had a noble ideal, selfless integrity, compassion for the weak, as well as respect and affection for me who was his teacher.

*Flashback*

For example, from ancient times, a great river has been flowing across the continent. No one would question the fact that people drink from the river, wash their dirty clothes in it, use it to drive their boats and travel to places. Even so, the people who feel grateful for the benefits the river brings them will be hateful toward it and call it an evil god when flood happens once in a while.

Faust was different. He served me with complete sincerely and was grateful to me even if he knew he might be killed. In a turbulent time, he devoted himself to both me and his army, probably to protect his grandmother, mother, and younger sister. He was the child who would humbly thank the river for a drop of water and remember the grace he received for the rest of his life.

Faust: Lord Figaro.

Faust: O Great Teacher, please impart your wisdom on this ignorant one. Forgive me the impertinence of asking for the lessons you have acquired through the many years of living in this world without knowing the pains and sorrows that come with time.

Figaro: I don’t mind, Faust. Alas, if there were more people who are so considerate to us like you…

Faust: Lord Figaro…

Figaro: Everyone thinks we’ll answer them when they ask us like an echo. And if we don’t answer them, it’s because we’re malicious or misanthropic. They all forget that there’s our sweats and blood, our history in our teachings. Thus they pick at me again and again like a flock of crows.

Figaro: “Hey, if you happen to know about it then tell me. If you don’t want me to make a mistake then tell me, right now. If you don’t, then it’ll be your fault when we die from our foolish actions.”

Faust: Has there been someone who was so insolent toward you, even as they begged you to give them guidance?

Figaro: That’s right. As a result, before I knew it, I’ve grown to resent the people whom I wanted to protect. Even so, the truth is I myself want to give a helping hand for a long time. Perhaps you’ll be able to do for them what I couldn’t. I’ll teach you everything I know, Faust.

*End flashback*

Figaro: ………

I recall the scenery of that day as I squint my eyes under the bright sunlight that shines through the trees. Even as I was most careful and meticulous in my cultivation of him, so that he would become a wizard who left his name in history, in the end, it was I who let go first. Nevertheless, a sweet attachment lingers on.

Lennox moves his gaze from the tower of the Magic Manor to me and asks.

Lennox: You have the face of someone who still has regrets.

Figaro: …..

I sullenly keep my silence. He is really insufferable when he’s like this.

However, showing one’s attitude is also an aspect of a casual friendship. He apologizes when I look angry.

Lennox: My apologies.

Figaro: It’s no big deal.

Lennox is unperturbed, in a ‘Ah well, that’s how it is I suppose’ way. He is really insufferable when he’s like this.

Lennox: If only you would have a proper talk with Lord Faust though.

Figaro: How should I do that, pray tell? He has been avoiding me.

Lennox: Even if Lord Faust does curses for hire now, he is still serious and sincere at his core. If you tell him you want to talk to him about something important, if you talk to him seriously, I think you and him will be able to meet each other halfway.

Figaro: Maybe. Thank you. I appreciate your advice.

Lennox shrugs at my empty show of gratitude and continues walking.

Lennox: You’re complicated, Doctor Figaro.

Figaro: And you’re simple. I suppose you were in the same position of being avoided by him. And yet it looks like Faust is losing and crumbling in the face of your persistence.

Lennox: If he’s indeed crumbling, then my way is the correct way, isn’t it?

Figaro: You… Then am I a fool to do what I’m told and stay out of his way as he wishes? Would it really be easier to do it like you and imposing myself on him despite his wish? Ah well, I guess things like that happen.

Lennox: It isn’t easy at all. I still have to hold myself back a bit longer, or I may end up pressing him into a corner like that time.

Lennox whispers as if talking to himself.

Part 13.3 That time when I found the purpose of my life

400 years ago, a gravely injured Faust due to a certain incident ran away from Lennox who was taking care of him. Lennox thinks it was his fault. I too think that was probably the case. There are times the way Lennox is so straightforward makes you feel good, but there’re also times his innocence can be grating, especially when you’re in so much despair that you’re falling apart. His frankness to the point of foolishness can save you but can also be a great burden.

Ah well, maybe this is just my prejudice speaking. There’re things only Lennox can do but I can’t. Perhaps sometimes it’s the forcefulness of someone clinging to you that will save you instead of the kindness of someone stepping aside.

To tell the truth, I was in a foul mood when Oz, who was in the middle of controlling the world with me, cut me off without a care. I was saved when Faust came asking for me. I too am attached to Lennox and Faust. It was him who granted us an era when we kept on running like in a dream.

Figaro: (It was ‘them’ to be precise, I suppose.)

The hero who established a country, Alec Granvelle. That golden child who changed history was a friend of Faust’s. Faust and Alec, who moved people’s hearts and beckoned them to an era of a new hope. Without a strong will, nothing would happen even if one had the vision of everything in the world and the miraculous power to build a high tower.

I once changed the person who sat on the throne. I once burnt half of the world to ash. I was once loved by a mass of knowing faces. However, little by little, all I could do was to be someone who whiled away his life in complete idleness.

Figaro: (That’s why I was so happy back then, when I could believe that cultivating that boy was my mission in life. I was filled with joy thinking that there was meaning to my life.)

Lennox definitely felt the same. That’s why we both have regrets and lingering attachment.

Figaro: Where are Rutile and Mitile? We agreed that the plan for today is to go to the market of Central Country.

Lennox: They said when we talked yesterday that they would go with us. We’re going to the empty house that they gifted to us for use as we like, right?

Figaro: That’s right. Today we’re going to have a chat with not only the owner of the house but also those who lent us a hand. People will feel at ease with a gentle youth like Rutile and a smart student like Mitile around.

Lennox: I suppose so.

Figaro: Shall we go fetch them from their rooms? It’s fine if we go in the afternoon instead too though.

As we are talking, I sense Rutile and Mitile’s presences. I turn my back and see Rutile pulling Mitile along as he runs towards us. As usual, I expect that Rutile would apologize for being late while gasping then smile at us. However, he is crying as he looks at us. His soft cheeks are all red, while his indomitable will seems to shine brighter than ever.

Rutile: ……

I see Tiletta’s face.

Figaro: Rutile? What’s wrong?

He opens his mouth then resolutely presses his lips together. Then he closes his eyes and shakes his head.

Rutile: I’m fine. Please don’t mind me.

Rutile holds tightly onto Mitile’s shoulders as if to protect him.

Mitile: …..

Mitile vaguely looks at Rutile as if wanting to say something.

I realize that something is wrong. When Rutile is crying, such an attitude from Mitile, who adores his older brother, is unusual. Usually he’d say, ‘Doctor Figaro, please listen to me! Something terrible happened to my brother!’. Or ‘What’s wrong, Brother?! Why are you crying?!’. The current Mitile isn’t surprised that Rutile is crying, but he doesn’t seem to be in sympathy with his brother either.

I look at Mitile in the eyes and ask.

Figaro: Mitile, what’s the matter? Do you know what happened to Rutile?

Mitile: Uhm, Mister Mithra…

Figaro: Mithra?

I look at Rutile in surprise. Lennox too becomes wary.

Rutile’s face crumbles, as if he wants to say something but is unable to find the words. He presses his lips as his shoulders shake. Mitile stares dumbfoundedly at his brother, who is in such a state.

Rutile: I’m sorry, Doctor Figaro. Nothing happened, really. Please forget about this.

Figaro: Understood. I won’t ask any more if talking about it is painful for you. Are you or Mitile injured? Did you eat something strange that you found on the way?

 

Part 13.4 The night that was all at once sad, surreal, and absurd

Mitile: ……

Mitile looks tense. Rutile hugs him even more tightly.

Rutile: No. We’re all fine.

The way they act worries me. They seem too shaken in the present, so I’ll ask them again later.

Figaro: (That brat Mithra. What did he do?)

The mother of Rutile and Mitile Flores is the Great Witch Tiletta. She was a brutal, bold, and capricious woman. She liked those who were strong. She liked those who were gentle and kind. She liked those who were good looking too.

Having such a temper, she once told me that she loved me. It was before she met Mithra. According to her, I was handsome and powerful even if not at Oz’ level. Compared to the wizards around me, I was a kind one too.

I quite liked her myself. However, we could never become lovers because we knew each other too well. As soon as there was an opening, we would take the other’s life. Therefore, no matter how much we liked each other, there was no trust between us. Eventually, Tiletta married a human and lived in Southern Country. Even then, she never trusted me until the very end, likely because she thought I would kill Mitile.

Figaro: I see. I’ll stop asking now. Do you want to have a rest before heading out, Rutile?

Rutile: No, I’m fine. I can go right away.

Rutile wipes away his tears with the back of his hand and smiles softly. He seems to be himself again.

Figaro: Remember not to overdo it, won’t you. Well then, shall we go?

We mount our brooms and fly into the sky with our magic.

[In the sky]

Lennox: Oh, it’s Mithra.

Lennox whispers as he is flying over the Magic Manor. Mithra is looking up at us. I reflexively tense up when I sense his gaze. There’s no way to tell if he’s going to appear in front of us right in next second and launch an attack.

However, the reactions of the Flores brothers are different. Rutile seems regretful, while Mitile’s eyes are shining. I know what happened the moment I see their expressions.

Figaro: (That Mithra… So he attempted to feed Rutile and Mitile mana stones, huh)

Wizards turn to stones when they die. And it can happen that eating mana stones will increase a wizard’s power. In the past, it was a matter of course that wizards eat mana stones. However, it seems that the young wizards of today refuse to do that. They want to bury the stones in the ground the way one would do the bones of humans. Maurice Flores, Tiletta’s husband, buried her stone in a grave too. Except for a part of it.

I remember that night when I talked to Mister Flores, who was a local teacher. It was a surreal night that was all at once sad and absurd.

[Flashback]

Maurice: …I can’t believe it. Tiletta has passed away.

Figaro: My condolence. I understand what you’re feeling right now. Tiletta was a long-time acquaintance with me too.

Maurice: I wonder if I can raise Rutile and the baby all by myself.

Figaro: Everyone in town will help you. I’ll do everything I can too. Mister Flores.. No, Maurice, I’m sorry for bringing up this topic at a time like this. However, this is an issue I’d like to settle early.

Maurice: Oh, that’s right. I’ll have to get it together and hold a proper funeral for her.

Figaro: There’s that too, but what are you going to do about Tiletta’s mana stone?

Maurice: What… do you mean?

Figaro: So you want to bury her stone in a grave? It’s become common for wizards to be buried lately, right?

Maurice: …Yes… I think…

Figaro: I see. I get it. However, her stone will definitely be dug up again. She was a powerful witch, you know.

Maurice: You mean her grave will be robbed? I’ve heard that mana stones are as precious as jewels.

Figaro: No, what I mean is people who were close to her will come to eat her stones, like Mithra or the twins.

Maurice: …..

Figaro: That’s how we wizards mourn someone. Of course, there’s also the sentiment that one shouldn’t let another wizard get their hand on a high quality stone. Therefore, perhaps it’ll be better to leave aside part of her stone before it gets dug up? You don’t want her grave to be ruined, right?

Maurice: ….Uhm… yes….

Figaro: Thank you. There’s one more thing. Besides the wizards who were close to Tiletta, there will be others who come to rob her grave too.

Maurice: You mean wizards?

Figaro: Indeed. It won’t be mourning for that lot though. Those who simply are on the lookout for high quality mana stones will sense its power and dig it up. You’d want to have protection against them, right?

Maurice: Yes….

Figaro: Got it. In that case, will you be fine with me casting the barrier?

Maurice: Barrier?

Figaro: I’ll place on her grave a curse-like thing so that it won’t be disturbed.

 

Part 13.5 On the topic of eating mana stones

Maurice: A… curse

Figaro: Oh… I suppose you wouldn’t want another man to cast a barrier on your wife’s grave? If that’s the case then sorry. Feel free to just say what you feel directly. I’m not really in touch with the sentiments of modern people.

Maurice: …….My apologies…. I feel…..

Figaro: Oh, sorry! You don’t look so good, Mister Flores. You haven’t had a good rest for a while, I suppose. Perhaps I’ve been talking too much all of a sudden. I just thought I must protect Tiletta’s stone.

Maurice: Please don’t worry. It’s me who should apologize for being so agitated. And here I thought I was aware that our ways of thinking were different when I married a wizard.

Figaro: It is what it is. Even fellow humans or fellow wizards think about the same thing differently.

Maurice: Doctor Figaro, may I ask you one question?

Figaro: Sure. Please ask as much as you like.

Maurice: Are you going to eat Tiletta’s stone too?

Figaro: I intend to, but do you mind that?

Maurice: ……..

Figaro: In any case, I’d like Rutile to have some if possible.

Maurice: Ru…. Rutile is Tiletta’s son though?!

Figaro: It’s because he’s her son that I plan to do that! Uhm, I won’t do it if you are so uncomfortable. I think that’s Tiletta’s wish though.

Maurice: *cries* That’s so terrible.

Figaro: Please don’t cry, Mister Maurice. What about me casting the barrier? Do you dislike that too? Since it may feel too much like you’re being cheated on and such.

Maurice: *sobs* But her grave will be robbed if you don’t do that though?

Figaro: It will be thoroughly ransacked, because she was a powerful wizard.

Maurice: *cries*

Figaro: P- please don’t cry.

[End flashback]

In the end, we didn’t have Rutile consume any of Tiletta’s mana stone. Of course, we didn’t feed it to Mitile who was still a baby either.

The Northern wizard Mithra made a promise to Tiletta to protect them. Maybe that’s why he attempts to feed them mana stones so that they get stronger. He’s terrified that someone will do something to them. I myself will kill them first if I want to get rid of Mithra so that he’ll lose his magic.

Of course, my sentiments are a different matter. Both Rutile and Mitile are adorable. I’d like to support them until they become adults.

Figaro: (Since it’s Mithra, the stone he wanted to feed them must have been good quality. For those with magic at the level of Rutile and Mitile, their hearts will be destroyed if they’re fed stones that are too powerful. I must sit Mithra and both brothers down for a proper talk. Especially Mitile. It’s necessary to explain that to him carefully.)

Based on what I’ve seen of what was shown on Mitile’s face, he doesn’t seem to have as much aversion to eating mana stones as Rutile. Mitile admires powerful wizards and wants to be like them, so he is always diligent in his study and training. However, there’s an ominous prophecy about him. He will be the ruin of Southern wizards.

The prophecy came from the Northern twins. And their prophecies always come true.

Even so, I want to delay the day that tragic future comes, no matter how little. My heart hurts every time I think about Mitile.

Figaro: (Mitile is such a good boy. Should something happen, I won’t ask someone else to do the deed. I’ll do it myself. I have had the same thought before. Ah, that’s right. That was about Oz).

[At the market]

Rutile: There’re so many people here today. I can feel that the residents of the city are becoming lively again!

When we arrive at the Central City, Rutile has cheered up again.

Lennox: Everywhere was in ruins just a short while ago, but the city is like how it was again.

Mitile: The people of Central Country are so positive! I can feel that when I help them.

Figaro: That’s right. It’s because of such positivity that they lend us an empty house that was destroyed.

Mitile: Doctor Figaro, is that empty house the one we cleaned up a while ago?

Figaro: That one, yes.

I smile with my whole face and mention a certain thing to make Mitile happy.

Figaro: Mitile, you made a table with Leno from the leftover materials, right?

Mitile: Yes. We finished cleaning the yard, so I thought there should be a place to rest.

Figaro: The person who let us use the house was delighted to see your work. He said that it’s impressive that in Southern Country, even a young boy is so good with handicraft. He also said that in the part where lots of people coming and going of Central Country, there’re those who abandoned their houses to avoid the Calamity this year, so he’s happy to see that you didn’t throw away the scrap materials from those houses but did your best to make use of them instead. That’s why he offered us the house that we repaired to use as we like.

Mitile’s eyes shine brightly. I’m happy to give him encouragement too.

Part 13.6 Wishing for happiness

There’s something I’d like to impart to Mitile slowly, carefully, which is that the glory of a wizard isn’t just in how much magical power they have. I’d like him to know that ‘you have qualities that make you a great wizard already’.

Mitile: That’s right. We make use of everything in City of Cloud, no matter how small they are.

Figaro: I know. Your idea to use the bathtub that had a hole on it as a container for growing plants was brilliant. Thank you, Mitile. Thank to your hard work that we have a home now.

Mitile: Ehehe

Mitile smiles happily. As his smile is like it shines from behind tears, I reflect on the situation of the day. I don’t want Mitile to become an unhappy wizard in the future. Perhaps I have been too overwhelmed by that sentiment and thus put too much restriction on him.

Figaro: (Even if gaining great power would bring about misfortune in the future, Mitile has his own freedom. Accordingly, it is his freedom to wish for growth. I wonder if it’s a mistake to monitor how much he grows and suppress his desire to fly higher? Even if there’s nothing but ruins waiting for him down the road.)

For a moment, I see the face of Oz before he became an adult in Mitile’s profile. I once thought the same thing about Oz. However, I was very careful with him because he was a threat. What will it be like with Mitile? Will he become a threat to me someday?

I wish for Mitile’s happiness. And Oz’s. Faust’s too. Master Snow and Master White. Lennox. Tiletta. Rutile. Arthur. I love them all. And so I wish for their happiness.

[At the magic house]

Mitile: Whoa, everything is so tidy and pretty!

Lennox: The people in the neighborhood gave this building a new paint. A full makeover.

Rutile: It’s like we have a new home! We really can use this place as we like?

Figaro: Yeah. Eventually there will be a sign for this building. What should we put on it?

Lennox: Would “Wizards’ House” work?

Rutile: I think so! I’ve seen places in the Southern Country with signs like, ‘There’re wizards here. Feel free to ask for help’. That’d be easy for everyone to understand, right?

Figaro: That’s a good idea. The people here will be surprised at first, but they’ll get used to this house.

Mitile: Brother, please have a look! I made this table.

Rutile: Whoa, it looks great! You and Mister Leno always pay attention to the smallest details, so the household tools you make are really pretty.

Mitile: But the nail is a bit bent here.

Rutile: Don’t worry about that. If it were me, all of the table’s legs would be bent.

Mitile: Hehe, it’d be hard to sit around such a table!

The laughter of the Flores brings a smile to my face. Then, many people appear from inside the house. They are the residents of the Central Country’s Capital, who gave their best for the restoration of the city.

Central Country citizen: Hi there, Doctor Figaro! The wizard friends too.

Figaro: Good day to you too. Thank you for the beautiful house.

Central Country citizen: It’s us who should thank you. You’ve helped us a lot.

Central Country citizen: I thought you’d use this house as your residence here, but apparently you’re going to use it as, what is it, a gathering place?

Figaro: That’s right. We’d like to have a place where people who need the help of magic can easily visit.

???: So this is something akin to a general store of wizards?

Suddenly, someone cuts into our conversation. That’s a youth I’ve never seen before. One can say that he’s still a boy. He has refined and bright manners. Like Mitile when he explores a new place, the boy’s eyes are shining.

???: My apologies for interrupting. I am Luchino Addinson, an aspiring reporter.

Rutile: Nice to meet you, Luchino. I’m Rutile Flores. You write for a newspaper?

Luchino: I write up the latest information and send it to interested customers. Information is valuable after all. Perhaps newspapers will be the force that moves the world. Reporter is a wonderful profession!

There’s an innocent admiration and pride in Luchino’s attitude about his work. He draws his shoulders together as if embarrassed.

Luchino: Pardon my rudeness. I got carried away. Please continue.

 

Part 13.7: A chilling reunion

Lennox: It’s my turn then. I’m Lennox. Nice to meet you.

Mitile: How do you do. My name is Mitile. I’m Rutile’s younger brother.

Figaro: Hi there. I’m Figaro.

Mitile is still on guard as he looks at Luchino, who stares at us with undisguised enthusiasm. This kid is the type who wants to have an encounter with wizards.

Luchino: I’m very interested about wizards so it’s great to meet you.

Bull’s eye. And from his clothes, this kid is probably the scion of some noble family.

Luchino: When I heard that a gathering place for wizards is being set up, I couldn’t help myself and show up here uninvited. You Sage’s Wizards like His Highness Prince Arthur and Cain the former knight are saviors of our world. Thank you for protecting us. I haven’t managed to find a place that publishes my investigative articles yet, but I would like to write about everyone. So please allow me to assist you!

Luchino makes a graceful bow. He gives off the impression of an honest, decent kid. I place my hand on the back of Mitile, who is still tense, and smile at Luchino.

Figaro: Thank you, Luchino. Let’s leave the talk about your investigative reporting aside for the time being. Please be Mitile’s friend first.

Luchino: I’ll be glad to! Hi, Mitile. I’ve heard a lot about Southern Country, so I’d like to visit someday.

Mitile: Really? You can talk to me about anything! How about the Town of Cloud?

Luchino: Town of Cloud! I’ve heard about that! It’s the most prosperous place in Southern Country, right? Please tell me everything!

As the talk went on, Mitile gradually lowered his guard. Rutile looked at the two boys with a smile on his face.

Lennox: He writes for a newspaper? You’re fine with that, Doctor Figaro?

Figaro: There’ll be slanders against us, so it’s good to have someone on our side. That kid seems pretty decent. I can’t wait to see what he’ll write about me. Maybe ‘the gentle healing hand of Southern Country, Doctor Figaro’…

???: Milord Figaro.

Suddenly, a low voice calls out behind me. A chill ran down my back. I didn’t not sense the presence of this person at all until now.

Figaro: …..tsk.

A hand grabs my shoulder before I turn around. That hand is even bigger than Lennox’s, its skin dry and white. It can likely snap the neck of children or women with no effort. I can see a leather bangle fitting snugly around the thick wrist.

Gulping, I raise my head. I am quite tall myself, but that person is such a burly giant that I would need to lift my chin to see his face. His expressionless eyes are of a faint blue, like a blade of ice.

On this peaceful day under the shade of the trees, of all people, the person standing behind me is a huge Northern wizard.

Tension fills my whole body, but I show that person a smile.

Figaro: Hi there! You must be Isaac, if my eyes don’t deceive me.

Isaac: It’s been a while, Lord Figaro.

Just as he said, the last time we met was 100 years ago or even longer.

Isaac is a Northern wizard. He isn’t on the same level as Bradley, but still strong enough that I can’t lower my guard around him. If he is in the mood, he can erase all traces of life from a part of this city in the blink of an eye.

There’s something strange about Isaac. His indifferent eyes of light color reveal none of what he is thinking as he seizes my hand. Holding it tightly with both hands, he stares fixedly at me.

Isaac: My lord, you’re the Wise One as always. I am… I can’t be like that. No matter how much time has passed, I can’t manage it.

Isaac sinks down with my hand still in his. He flops on the floor then immediately wriggles up in a kneeling position. He tugs at my hand as if about to place it on the tip of his nose. Probably he wants to assume the pose of a supplicant offering a prayer.

Isaac: Lord Figaro, o Lord Figaro, I did something foolish again. I… I just realized. I’m going to die soon. I can feel that. Therefore, I’d like to become smart, if only for a moment, before I die. I want to understand this world.

Isaac: And now I meet you here.

Isaac smiles, but his eyes, which are like those of a killer, do not.

 

Part 13.8 Walking a hungry bear around town

I think to myself that what’s going on is nothing but trouble. Isaac is a dangerous wizard. He’s short-tempered and violent. I’ve seen him make sure that those who mocked him would never be able to laugh again without a change in his expression. I’ve also seen him turn clever wizards into stones then ate them when he grew restless and furious. Apparently he thought doing so would help him become clever too.

Figaro: (Good grief. Isaac isn’t a wizard who should be allowed to stay in a city with so many people like this).

It isn’t that Isaac is intentionally cruel. Compared to the average Northern lot, he is quite gentle. He is different from them in that despite being born a Northern wizard, he loves learning. He once said smart people seemed to have an easy, unruffled life, so if he could understand the world and its workings, he would definitely be able to live without his heart being in disarray.

I like that side of Isaac, which is so earnest, pitiful, and foolish.

Lennox: Doctor Figaro.

I realize that the Southern wizards are looking at me. With some hesitation, I pull back my hand from his.

Figaro: Come, Isaac. Let’s talk face to face.

Isaac: Lord Figaro.

Figaro: Please call me Doctor Figaro.

I whisper in Isaac’s ear and tug at his arm to get him to stand up. As he doesn’t move, I clasp his back.

Figaro: Stand up. You’re attracting attention.

Isaac: Yes, sir.

Figaro: Leno, sorry to bother you, but this guy is my acquaintance from before. I’d like to have a chat with him. Can I leave this place’s business to you?

Lennox: Got it. Be careful.

Mitile: Wow, Doctor Figaro’s friend is a giant. I’ve never seen anyone as big as him.

Rutile: Welcome. I just brewed some tea. Please help yourself if it’s to your liking.

Isaac: …..

Isaac fixes his gaze at Rutile upon hearing his soft voice. Bright and gentle Rutile is just the type of person he likes. I hastily shake my head.

Figaro: Don’t do anything, Isaac. They belong to Mithra.

They don’t belong to Mithra at all, but that’s the quickest way to get the point to a Northern wizard.

Isaac: Mithra? Mithra the Northern wizard?

Figaro: The very same one.

Isaac: But… he invited me to tea.

Figaro: Isaac, I’m warning you because I like you. If you drink that tea, Mithra will kill you.

Isaac: The tea…

Figaro: Don’t come to this house again. Let’s go.

Isaac: Understood.

I walk through the busy street with Isaac in tow.

Isaac: Have you been here for a long time, Lord Figaro?

Figaro: Doctor Figaro.

Isaac: Doctor Figaro.

Figaro: Well, I live in Southern Country, but I’ve been here a lot recently.

Isaac: Hehe, people talked to me. Lots of them…. They gave me things like flowers and water too.

Figaro: That’s nice, isn’t it? The Central Country is at the heart of the continent, so the people here are sociable.

Isaac: *chuckles* They will talk to me again, perhaps.

Figaro: I suppose so.

Isaac’s giant-like stature draws people’s eyes to him. With his coarse hair and the square set of his shoulders, he’s like a hungry bear that is on the prowl for food. The good people who have been earnestly giving their best effort for the restoration of the city are terrified by his appearance. The mothers with children in their arms as well as the young men who pull the carts full of goods all pale with fear and vacate the street. Every time that happens, the rough, short-tempered Isaac is irritated.

Isaac: They gave me gifts just a while ago.

Figaro: It’s the middle of the day. Everyone is busy. Besides that, don’t take people’s good will for granted.

Isaac: …I see. Even so, if they give me something, I’ll share a small portion of what I get with you, Lord Figaro.

No matter how many times I correct him, Isaac keeps calling me Lord Figaro. Eventually, I give up getting him to change how he addresses me.

Figaro: Thank you. That isn’t necessary though.

Isaac: Apologies.

It isn’t that Isaac wants a physical thing. He has the strength to seize whatever he likes. Maybe what’s happening is that he likes this city and wants to be welcome by its people. Perhaps he takes the charity he received as people liking him, and he wants to show me that.

Yet the townspeople are avoiding him.

I understand the feeling of both sides. Of course people would want to protect what they hold dear from what they find scary or abnormal.

Part 13.9 Even as I want to be around people

On the other hand, at times like this, I feel like I could hear the roar of the sea.

Whether I walk into the waves of the freezing ocean or mingle in the crowd of people coming and going, there’s no overcoming the loneliness I feel. Even as there is no promised paradise for me, my soul will freeze if I don’t keep walking ahead.

Figaro: (I want to let Isaac stay in this city, but I’m afraid there’ll be bloodshed soon. Isaac isn’t used to living in such a crowded place like here. Shall I force him to return to Northern Country before problem arises? Or perhaps…)

Isaac: Please have a look, Lord Figaro.

Figaro: Yes?

Isaac holds out something to me. In the palms of his huge hands is a tattered book.

I blink and ask in surprise.

Figaro: So you’ve learnt to read?

The corners of Isaac’s mouth curl up. It’s an awkward, bashful expression of a smile.

Isaac: Yes.

I smile as I reach out and pull him to a place where we won’t hinder the traffic.

There’re many illiterate people in the world. It’s only about one hundred years ago that education started to be provided to those who aren’t of the nobility, and that’s mostly in places with rich culture. Farmers only need to know how to farm, hunters how to hunt, artisans how to make their wares, and that’s enough to go on living.

Besides, for a wizard who can live by themselves in the North, it’s no problem at all if they can’t read and write. However, Isaac loves to study. I like this side of his too.

Figaro: Let me have a look. Oh, this is impressive. You can read this much already?

Isaac: Is it a difficult book?

Figaro: Not really. A child who knows the letters can understand it. But you couldn’t even write your own name before, right? Well done, Isaac. Reading is fun, isn’t it?

While I smile at him, Isaac widens his eyes and takes in a deep breath, as if affected by what I said. He looks just like Mitile before. Isaac must have been working hard, so he is filled with joy when I praise him.

How sweet and pitiful, I think.

Isaac: Thank you, Lord Figaro. I’m very, very happy.

Figaro: I’m glad too. Where did you learn to read and write from?

Isaac: In Northern Country. Then in Central Country. I was really frustrated, but I tried to bear with it. There were times I couldn’t really manage that though.

Figaro: Did someone teach you?

Isaac: I begged the travelers. They had no home, you know. So…

Figaro: Ah, so they taught you in exchange of some coins.

Isaac: Oh, well, you can say that. After that, when I came to Central Country, the humans gave me lots of books too. They said, ‘if you want to read then we’ll give you books’. From time to time, I talk to them and ask about how to read.

Figaro: I see. Not many Northern wizards can manage that.

Isaac: Haha.

Isaac laughs. As he does that, even his expressionless eyes look like a glittering icy lake. Even so, his hair and clothes are dirty. No matter how much I taught him, he never gets into the habit of washing himself and his clothes.

Figaro: Isaac, please clean up. I taught you the way to cleanse yourself with magic already, didn’t I?

Isaac: But I hate bathing. It’s no problem if I don’t keep clean.

Figaro: Even if it’s not a problem for you, it is to those around you. They’ll run away from you.

Isaac: Why would they do that?

Figaro: Because bad odor and unkempt looks are unpleasant. It’s unhygienic and can make you sick too.

Isaac: I find it unpleasant when children laugh out loud too. They always do that so suddenly and startle me. Sometimes, their laughter brightens the mood, but I always get irritated right away. What makes me different from them?

Figaro: Human lifespan is short, so they remember their childhood and thus relate to the children. When they see children laugh, most people will be happy.

Isaac: Not me. So they run away from me because they can’t relate to a being like me? This is so infuriating. They haven’t even met me. If that’s the case, I won’t go out of my way to make myself clean. If they want to look at me with disgust then go ahead. That would be a relief.

Figaro: Why would you do something that people can’t accept even though you want to be among them?

Isaac huffs. He gives me a stare full of hostility and hatred.

Isaac: Give me an answer I can be satisfied with then. You’re the wise one, Lord Figaro. You must know the correct answer, right? Is there any reason they tolerate children who suddenly laugh out loud but they can’t accept me? Please tell me! You should know why!

Isaac immediately pesters me for an answer. With utmost patience, I ask him.

Figaro: Isaac, there’re many reasons for that. Besides, there isn’t necessarily one ‘correct’ answer. Depending on the time and place, the answer will be different. That’s why you must learn why by yourself.

Isaac: You’re terrible for putting on airs like that. You know I will comply with what you teach me properly.

I feel fed up in the face Isaac’s resentment. Sad and hurt too. It is unexpectedly hard to find someone who would look at you sincerely and listen to what you say with a pure heart and a keen mind, even though they call me ‘Lord Figaro’.

Isaac: Lord Figaro, please hurry up and tell me. I’d like to be knowledgeable about this world.

Figaro: There’s no point if you only know something. Isaac, you only want to know the reason so that you won’t be hated. However, that’s the same as wanting to know about everyone’s temperament or the entire world’s history. You must keep that in mind.

Isaac: I get it. You hate me. You should’ve just said that.

Figaro: You’re mistaken.

Isaac: You’re lying. Even so, I’ll do as you say because I never go against your words. Your teachings are more precious than any mana stone to me. I love studying with you.

Figaro: You’re lying. You only want to get from me the logic and reasoning that validate you.

Isaac: That’s a cruel thing to say. I don’t do that.

Figaro: The fact is, you forgot what I told you before. If you don’t keep yourself clean, you’ll get sick. Look, your limbs are rotting.

Isaac: ….Oh, because of that….

Isaac’s sharp eyes become clouded with despair. That reminds me, he did say that he’s going to die. Is he in the same situation as me?

Figaro: Are you feeling unwell?

Isaac: That’s right. I can’t really describe it, but there’re times my body can’t move the way I want it to. That bothers me so much that I hit myself, so that part has been hurting all this time.

Figaro: What a foolish thing to do. Where did you hit yourself? Let me see.

Isaac: Are you worried for me?

Figaro: Well, I’m a doctor at the moment.

Isaac: Please cure my foolishness too.

I touch his stomach and look up. He is certainly not as much of a fool as he thinks. He has the desire to learn and the will to move ahead. He has worked hard and become literate. Even if he’s violent, crude, and temperamental, he has been trying to be patient.

Figaro: I’m not calling your foolish. What I mean is, it isn’t good to hurt yourself.

Isaac: I don’t like any of this.

Isaac makes the face of someone in utmost pain. More than sadness, what’s in his expression is helplessness and loss of desire for anything. He wants to end his life here and now.

Isaac: That’s enough. I’m done for. I wanted to change in the end. That’s why I… Aaaah….

Figaro: Isaac?

 

Part 13.10 The question with no answer in sight

Suddenly, Isaac’s leather bangle catches my eyes. There is a thin chain on the bangle to fasten it to the wrist, and on the chain is a small blue stone. This craftmanship is too dainty for his taste. There’s the presence of a wizard in the stone.

Isaac: I keep doing things that I don’t know the cause of. I keep thinking in circle about what I can’t find the answer. I’ve had enough of being fooled!

He suddenly gets angry and hits the stone wall. Right away, there’s a scream from the direction of the market.

A man: W- what is that?!

A woman: Aaaah, my clothes suddenly burst open.

Again and again, the canvas that covers a stall or a box that holds fruit is broken, as if cut through by an invisible blade. That’s Isaac’s doing.

Figaro: ……

I take out my magic focus without a word. Isaac immediately pales. He holds his head and crouches down where he is.

Isaac: No, it’s not me! I didn’t mean to! I have been trying to be patient. I’ve been enduring everything like you taught me.

Isaac: I can’t stand it anymore! I’m fed up with it! I bear with it, again and again and again, but only for you to abandon me, Lord Figaro.

Isaac’s face crumbles weakly as if to cry as he opens his mouth widely. My heart hurts when I see him like that. ‘How pitiful,” I think. I stand there completely at a loss like a fool. Perhaps I should finish him off right here.

Faust was an ideal disciple. A noble, high-minded hero with pen and sword in accord. I once planned to teach him everything I knew, because I had the feeling that doing so would help me connect with this world once again.

However, perhaps the people who actually need my guidance are those like Isaac.

All of the sudden, Isaac prostrates himself on the ground. He desperately clings onto my feet like a man drowning at sea.

Isaac: I beg you, Lord Figaro, I beg you. If you’re going to kill me, then please teach me one last thing.

Figaro: What do you want to know?

Isaac: What is happiness? How can one become happy? Why was I born into this world? What should I do so that something nice happens to me? What should I do to become smart? If I ate the stone of the Western wizard Murr, would people praise me like they do for him?

Isaac: I… The only thing I wish for is to be all-knowing like you, Lord Figaro.

Isaac: I would like to see the world with the feeling that I understand everything just once before I turn to stone. ‘Oh so that’s how it is’. ‘I see, so it’s like that’. I only want the ease of heart that comes with knowing.

I let out a sigh and look up. The sky is so clear and blue and unbelievably beautiful. If I knew the answer for what he is asking, I wouldn’t be all alone here and now. However, I will only make Isaac despair if I tell him that. So I smile gently at him.

Figaro: I’m not turning you into stone. Please learn the answers for your questions by yourself, little by little. Please continue your study. After all, you have started reading books. There’s still lots of time left for you. See, beautiful days are waiting ahead.

Isaac’s huge back shakes like a leaf. I quietly let out a sigh as I patted it. As my helpful words seem to be accepted, I can’t help but feel that I’m lying.

‘Everything will definitely work out fine.’ In general, that’s really the case if you don’t ask for much. However, maybe we don’t really want to take the easy path.

Isaac is pitiful. He’s also quick to quarrel and prone to lose his temper. He’s nothing but a threat to this city. I can’t be sure if he won’t cause a disaster to the people here. And if a wizard is the cause of a disaster, Vincent won’t be so agreeable anymore. Arthur’s standing will be in danger. On top of that, the hopes of the Southern wizards, who have been talking and working with the local people at the Wizards’ House, will all be crushed.

However…

If Isaac is dangerous, then Oz and Mithra are even more so. Owen, Bradley, and I myself can all destroy this city if we want to. Even so, we are free to go anywhere we want. What’s the difference between us and Isaac? Is it because we are Sage’s Wizards?

And Mitile too. His existence means the ruins of all Southern wizards in the future. Does that make it right to rob him of the chance to grow that he wishes for?

Mitile and Isaac are the same. They want to understand the world and to improve themselves. They want people to love them.

I want to grant them their freedom. However, doing so may lead to tragedy down the road. That’s a problem I’ve been facing countless times since a thousand years ago: Should I eliminate one dangerous individual for the safety of the majority? Or even dangerous living beings deserve to be granted the same freedom as everyone else?

More than everything…

Until when am I planning to manage this world, even though I don’t really understand the meaning of ‘love’ or ‘happiness’?