what do you think about cain’s relationship with his parents? i find it soo interesting how whenever he recounts something about them it’s usually disagreements (abt hiding magic, food and decorations in your last tl, argument about leaving the city of glory… etc).
100% cain's parents were emotionally abusive. his mother, in particular, is what gave him the worst of it: telling him at a young age that because he was born a wizard, he's going to be a problem for his parents if he's found out, that all of his friends will hate and mistrust him, and that they'll have to leave the city of glory entirely... there are a few times in his narration that cain will emphasize how he tried to be a good "human" (using 人間 rather than 人) but ultimately failed at it.
but what REALLY grinds my gears is that cain sincerely considers himself to have had good parents and a good childhood. it's a good thing that he got told to hide a fundamental part of himself so he would stay safe! it's a good thing his parents tried to stop him from pursuing his dreams! and in turn, cain occasionally mimics their behavior: his intense jealousy over arthur and kizuoe favoring oz over him, the way he tells arthur/the sage that it's dangerous to be away from him because what if they got hurt or kidnapped or killed, and there's even a line in anni2 where he more or less outright says that the only thing stopping him from using force to make arthur do what he (cain) wants is that arthur's magic is stronger than his. each incident taken individually isn't much, but when you put them all together...
cain's parents raised him into a mistrusting, would-be-controlling wreck that thinks he knows what's best for the people he loves... which, well, is exactly what they were. it's really, really tragic to me.
you guys can keep sending me messages about cain character analysis i love this. offer is open to people who agree or disagree with my takes! i want to see as many interpretations of him as i can!! i'm cainluvr69!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's genuinely not helping that he keep trying to find a use for Arthur only to essentially be told to "please die for the greater good" so now he's all like "well might as well die for someone I want to die for but I'll have to make sure they'll remember me for something else than dying"
right!!!! like something i find really striking about arthur and cain's relationship is that. honestly they don't really know each other very well. arthur thinks cain really is the paragon of knighthood he portrays himself as, when he's actually just as fragile and flawed as anyone else--he got raised being told that he had to hide a fundamental part of himself, lest he become a "problem" for his parents, and then he won that duel against nicholas and got immediately rocketed to fame he was too young to deal with. knight trainees can enlist as young as 15 (according to the knight event), we know it's been two years since owen outed him, so i think it's likely cain got pushed into the position of captain of the knights at only 18 years old. he was barely an adult at the time (not even actually an adult by jpn standards, since that's 20 years old) and training to become a knight was his entire life, only to get it ripped away from him--of COURSE he's desperate to find a reason to live. of COURSE he immediately falls to (implied) suicidal ideation and other unhealthy behaviors as soon as it looks like he might lose his reason to live again.
he hides it well, but he's also deeply mistrusting of others, always assuming the worst of people even when he has no reason to, which runs perfectly counter to arthur's unconditional trust he offers everyone. cain doesn't really understand arthur either, honestly--he sees arthur as a paragon the same way arthur sees him as one, and he deals even worse with seeing sides to arthur that he (cain) doesn't want to acknowledge, like how arthur wishes he never had to leave oz's castle, or how arthur blatantly favors oz over him. the two of them also refuse to get too deep into the other's business--i think a lot about that scene where cain and arthur are talking warning each other away from owen and oz, respectively, but they both just tell the other that it's their own business, and not to butt into things...and then they just leave it as that. neither of them tries to poke into why oz/owen is so important to them. they don't explain themselves. they just........leave it at that.
and what strikes me the most about their relationship is that neither of them thinks this is bad or unhealthy. most other unbalanced wizard relationships have everyone involved aware that this kind of sucks for one reason or another, but arthur and cain completely lack that. and that means that cain is bound to get worse before he gets better, and while you KNOW i'm looking forward to that, it's still devastating, you know? you know.
i always thought he was on the verge of tears of happiness because he was so happy arthur found a use for him that even oz can’t do (esp with how he was so devastated earlier in the story about being pretty much useless to arthur compared to oz)
being on the verge of tears from joy because your master wants you to die for the greater good is also pretty bleak, no?
WAIT WHEN DID ARTHUR TELL CAIN TO DIE FOR THE GREATER GOOD??
that was near the end of ms2, when the wizards were deciding who to send to kill The Big Sludge! it isn't super overt of course but, you know, subtext is everything:
Arthur: I’d like to volunteer Cain.
Cain: …
Cain’s eyes grew wide.
[...]
Arthur: Are you willing, Cain? It’s a dangerous mission, and I don’t want to force you into anything, so answer me sincerely.
Cain blinked, once, twice, three times. Riquet, on the other hand, looked so happy he could hardly stand it, clasping his hands in front of his chest.
Cain took a deep breath, his expression stiff.
Cain: I…
Of course I will. On my honor as a knight.
[...]
All the wizards, young and old, had words of encouragement for him.
Cain nodded with vigor, smiling. Sometimes, he looked like he was on the verge of tears.
Cain: Thank you, all of you… I’m so grateful.
I’ll be sure to meet your expectations. I’ll definitely…definitely succeed.
and of course there's a reason that after he set out he needed the northern wizards of all people to keep him from dying before even reaching his goal, or why most of the wizards were so worried about whether or not he'd come back at all. it's easy to get stuck on how enthusiastic riquet is about cain being chosen, but riquet completely missing what's going unsaid only adds to the tragedy: he's cheering enthusiastically while cain is making clear that he knows he's going to die at the end of this.
this is basically The Point at which cain's character starts to diverge from who he was: in every single love and romance-focused event, for instance, he made it very clear that he had zero interest in the romance aspects, preferring to focus on his friends and family, but now he's so romantically forward with the sage in ways that run completely contrary to how he used to act. similarly, he used to talk about wanting to Live because arthur gave him the life he currently has, and now, you're much more likely hear him talking about how he wants to die on arthur's behalf (sometimes, on anyone's behalf). he's also way more morbid now--while he was always the type to go "it's dangerous to not be with me, what if you get kidnapped?", now he's just casually talking about how akira might get ripped in half is they make a mistake, or fall and get their head crushed on the rocks below if they slip, that kind of thing.
like, cain has gone on suicide missions before, but only by his own choice and not because someone else told him to. so being volunteered for a suicide mission, much less by arthur of all people...well. it has knocked a few of cain's gears out of place for sure
"Lively Decorations for a Lively Day" SSR Cain Card Story - Ribbon Colors and Memories
The manor's Good Job! Party was steadily approaching, and our preparations for it were going smoothly. And one fine afternoon…
As the organizer of the event, I was going around and offering a helping hand to everyone who seemed like they might need it.
Akira: (I haven't checked up on Cain yet. I should see if he needs any extra help.)
I walked to the inner courtyard, and there I saw him as he wrapped ribbons and garlands around the trees. But there was someone else already there with him.
Akira: (Oh, it's Bradley. …Huh? Wait, what's up with that?)
He had a whole bunch of brightly-colored ribbons wrapped draped around him like jewelry.
In one hand was something that looked like a beer bottle, and he knocked it back and took a swig.
Akira: (What's going on here?! He looks like he's got that good post-bath spirit…)
Cain: Oh, Master Sage! What are you standing over there for?
Bradley: Is the event planner themself slackin' off now? You got some real guts.
Akira: No, I, uhh, I was going around seeing if anyone needed help, and… Bradley, what are you doing…?
Bradley: What does it look like? I'm drinkin' booze.
Cain: I decided to use him as my ribbon spool since he's here anyways.
Akira: A ribbon spool…?
Cain: He showed up to be a menace with zero intention of helping, so I turned him into my ribbon spool.
I mean, it'd be bad if the ribbons were left on the ground and someone stepped on them, right? But having all of them looped over my arm would get in the way, too.
Akira: I…I see…?
Bradley: Kid's got real guts too, to trap the one and only Bradley and turn him into a place to dump his crap.
He jabbed his thumb in Cain's direction as if he were actually offended, but he just kept blithely drinking from his bottle. His tone of voice made it clear he wasn't bothered by it at all.
Akira: (I'm not sure if Cain's just plain dauntless, or if Bradley's just being particularly tolerant today… Maybe it's both.)
…You're still in the middle of decorating, right? I can help out!
Cain: Thanks, that'd be great. Just pick any ribbon you like off Bradley's neck.
Cain showed me how to do it, pulling a ribbon off of Bradley.
He chose a glossy coffee-colored ribbon. It had a Christmas-y feel despite its unconventional coloring, which made it seem rather sophisticated.
But when Bradley saw it, he wrinkled his nose.
Bradley: Dude, why would you pick a boring color like that? It looks like pond sludge. You need to be choosing stuff that really pops.
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Pond sludge? No, this is supposed to be a classy color.
Bradley: Then it's the color as the suit of some old bastard on the verge of dyin'. Look, just use this one instead.
Cain: Gold, really? I mean, it's a perfectly good color, but isn't putting something so flashy on the trees kinda…unfashionable?
Subtle but complex colors like this are what are in style right now…
Bradley: Then the current style sucks, obviously. If you wanna catch someone's eye, you gotta go for something bright.
Cain: …Don't take this the wrong way, but sometimes you say things that really remind me you're 600 years old.
Bradley: Excuse me? What would an immature brat like you know?
Akira: Can we, um, can we calm down a little? Um, how about I tell you what I think? Would that help you decide things…?
Bradley: Your opinion? Well, spit it out.
Akira: Um…
…Ummm…
(…Now what do I do? If I answer honestly, I'd just be saying that I think they would both be good choices, but then we'd still be at an impasse…)
There wasn't any kind of objectively correct answer here, since it's about personal preferences. I had no idea what to say.
But then, as I was desperately trying to think up the right thing to say, a flash of inspiration struck.
Akira: Is it okay if I choose something that isn't either of those colors?
Bradley & Cain: Neither of them?
Akira: Yes. Remember how this party is based off a holiday in my world?
I'd be really happy if the ribbons were something you think I'd like.
Cain: ----.
Cain's eyes widened in shock for a moment.
But then, much as snow melts into spring, his expressed softened into a smile.
Cain: Y'know what, true enough. In that case…
Cain put the ribbon he'd been holding back around Bradley's neck, and then pulled off a whole bunch at once.
They were all gentle, pastel colors. It was as if he'd gathered up all the warmth of a spring day.
Cain: I think this set of colors might be a good starting point. What about you, Bradley?
Bradley: …I guess they're fine? They're all as laid-back as the Sage is, so they'll work.
Akira: L-laid-back…
Cain: You meant to say "peaceful and cute". Anyway, since we're all in agreement, time to get on with decorating.
Cain gestured with his finger like a conductor, and the ribbons began to weave themselves through the branches.
They didn't have the classy feel of Cain's pick nor the impact of Bradley's choice. Instead, they felt calm and relaxing.
Cain: There we go! The Sage-colored ribbons are pretty cute.
Bradley: Yeah. They ain't bad at all.
Akira: (This is kind of embarrassing… I'm glad I was able to bring this to a peaceful conclusion, at least.)
(…I wonder why Cain looked so startled when I asked him to pick out the ribbons?)
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain continued to decorate the trees in the inner courtyard, and as the sun moved across the sky…
Akira: Bradley got away…
Cain: I thought what he was drinking was from his own store, but apparently it was meant for the party. He should've known Nero was gonna be pissed.
Akira: I saw him running after Bradley with a really scary face. I hope Bradley comes back to us mostly unharmed…
As I thought about what had just happened while we were decorating, I recalled the question I'd had earlier. I decided to just go ahead and ask it.
Akira: Cain, you seemed really startled when I asked you to pick the ribbons for me. What was that about?
Cain: Oh, well, it just kinda reminded me of back home. We did something pretty similar to settle things when we were arguing with each other.
Akira: Really? I'm kind of surprised to hear you fought with your parents.
Cain: Oh, yeah. Me and my dad would get into arguments all the time over stuff like what was for dinner that night.
Whenever that happened, my mom would clap her hands and say…
"Show's over! We're not going to be eating either of those! Why don't you two use all that energy to think of something I'd like, instead?"
Akira: Oh, wow! That really is similar to what we just did.
Cain: Right? That's why I got surprised.
He smiled, and then glanced around the courtyard, now much brighter and more lovely than it was on any other day. His mismatched eyes wrinkled at the corners as his expression softened.
Cain: I'm feeling kinda nostalgic now. Our house looked a lot like this whenever we decorated for the holidays.
Me 'n my dad are both kinda…unrefined when it comes to this stuff, so we usually think flashy is the way to go. One time we bought this silver and gold tapestry embroidered in red.
But when we tried to put it up, my mom blew up at us, like, "This house isn't a circus tent!"
As Cain's words, honeyed with nostalgia, reached me, I began to see the scene painted before me--there was a warm family around me.
My chest felt a bit tight at the fact that what was nostalgic to me reminded him of home, too.
The two of us had similar roots.
Akira: …Please do keep your family in your heart while enjoying the party, Cain.
I wanted to share this warm moment of kinship with him. But after Cain's eyes widened for a moment, he shook his head, still smiling.
Cain: C'mon, Master Sage. Don't ask me to do the impossible.
How am I supposed to think about anything but you when we're together?
Akira: …!
Cain: You should say something like… "Why not forget all about the past for a while, so that we can make new memories together?"
Can you do that for me, Master Sage?
Cain's red and gold eyes sparkled with mischief as he waited for me to say something.
I smiled, and looked up at him.
Akira: Then, let's make new memories together, so that you can bring them back and tell them to your family.
Cain: Your wish is my command, my liege.
The party was bound to be a fun one, and the force of his words and straightforwardness of his gaze made me even more sure of that.
***TL Note: Cain's original failed pronunciation of Santa Claus translated more along the lines of "killing someone three times", which is another highlight of Cain's recent morbidity. Fun!
Training Episode: Town of Glory-Style Christmas
Akira: Thank you so much for helping with putting the party together, Cain!
I was just thinking, if Christmas was celebrated in the Town of Glory, what kind of celebration would it be?
Cain: Hmm, lemme think…
Well, obviously there'd be dancing.
Akira: (Obvious to you, maybe…)
Cain: And--what was the name of that guy who gives out presents, Sandy Claws?
Akira: You mean Santa Claus!
Cain: Yeah, that guy. We'd definitely do something with that guy.
Everyone'd wear a fake beard and we'd do a big present exchange, that sort of stuff.
Akira: That sounds fun! We did a present exchange every year in my hometown, too.
Cain: Haha, I thought so!
Next we have to think about the food. Cakes and roast turkey are the types of things that would immediately hit all the right "festive" notes.
Akira: True!!
(It keeps getting closer and closer to how we celebrated Christmas back home…)
Cain: And after we eat and drink our fill, we'll finish the whole thing off with…
More dancing.
Akira: Wasn't that how you said it'd start?!
Cain: I mean, yeah? Both the appetizer and dessert are important, y'know?
Akira: I guess that's one way to think about it… Yep, that's definitely where you grew up, no doubt about it…
(Still, a Town of Glory-style Christmas sounds like it'd make anyone want to get up and dance.)
"Telling You Dawn Has Come" Cain SSR Card Story - That Blade Will Always Remain
An academic salon had been built in Eastern Country, a veritable embodiment of knowledge: the Ship of Wisdom.
I visited a few days ago, and saw lots of people trying to record the things only they knew for future generations.
Akira: (I wonder what my wizards would want to leave behind?)
I was thinking it over while drinking tea after lunch when I heard military-precision steps approaching from the hall.
Cain: Oh, so this is where you were, Master Sage. Cock Robin said he needs you for something, so we just got back from the castle.
Akira: Thank you for telling me, Cain. Where's Cock Robin?
Cain: In the common room. He said he wanted me to be there too, so let's go together.
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Sorry for calling you away from your teatime like this.
Akira: Oh no, it's fine! I was just getting lost in my thoughts. I was thinking about things like the researchers at the Ship of Wisdom…
…Oh, right. Cain, do you have anything that you want to leave behind for the world?
Cain: Something to leave behind? Hmm…
Cain spent some time thinking about it, but as we ascended the stairs, he shook his head.
Cain: I'm not getting any sudden flashes of inspiration about it or something, sorry.
Wizards live for hundreds, even thousands of years. I'm sure I'll find something someday that'll be my immediate answer to what I want to sum up my life.
Akira: I see…
(It's a very openminded and straightforward way of looking at it. Very Cainlike.)
(But… It's still kind of surprising. I thought for sure he would say something about what it means to be a knight.)
But before I could blurt out something stupid like that, Cain came to a stop. We had reached the common room.
Cain: Please allow me to open the door for you.
Akira: Oh, okay! Thank you.
My brain immediately switched gears. The thought I hadn't voiced stayed inside of me.
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: Thank you for waiting, Mister Cock Robin.
Cock Robin: Master Sage! I'm so sorry to interrupt your day like this.
You see, another witness to the incident of the Calamity's influence we talked about the other day has appeared. I wanted to report it immediately.
However, I have a…rather peculiar request…
Cain: A peculiar request?
✦✧☾✧✦
Our story now takes us to several days later.
Cain and I were on our way back from taking care of Cock Robin's "peculiar request".
Akira: It was still sunset just a few minutes ago, but it's already pitch black…
Cain: It's not impossible for there to be bandits or stray dogs about. Stay close, Master Sage.
Akira: Thank you. I'll be counting on you, Cain.
Cock Robin's "peculiar request" was asking us to come in person to meet the old woman that had witnessed the incident.
She lived along near a blessed spring deep in the forest to help with her frequent bouts of illness, and gave us a very warm welcome.
She seemed quite happy to have company, to the point that once evening rolled around and we said it was time for us to leave, she tried to stop us…
Akira: (And then, it became night… I couldn't just leave like that when she looked so lonely…!)
Cain: Once the trees aren't so thick overhead, we can go the rest of the way by broom. We'll be able to get to the capital's tower a lot faster like that.
Akira: Alri--
A Rough Voice: Quit fucking looking down on me like that, bastard!
A Man's Voice: Gyahhh!
Cain & Akira: …?!
Akira: Was that a fight? But going through the forest at night is dangerous, so who in the world would…
Cain: …Or, if you flip that around, people who don't mind a bit of danger would love it here.
Your safety is my priority. We can alert the appropriate authorities after we return to the manor, but right now we--
A Child's Voice: Waaaah…! Someone, help…!!
A Rough Voice: Shut up, brat!
The voices cutting through the darkness of night made both of us gasp and turn to one another. A chill ran up my spine.
Akira: (That's not a family argument, someone's being attacked! And there's a little kid caught up in it, too…!)
This child's wail came to an abrupt end.
Perhaps they were simply frozen in fear by their attacker. Perhaps they'd just been hit.
Or perhaps something much worse had happened…
Akira: …gh, Cain! I know you're supposed to be protecting me, but I can't just let this happen! Please, save that child!
I can take care of myself until you get back. So, please…!
Cain: Hey now.
Akira: Wah?!
Cain poked my head, acting lighthearted even though I was pleading desperately. But from his touch, I felt my body start to warm up a bit.
Akira: Cain…?
Cain: That was a protection spell. You were super cool and brave making that request, but…
Just who do you think I am? I'm this country's former Captain of the Knights.
There was a light in the darkness.
Stronger than the moon's radiance, it was the gleam of Cain's gold eye and confident smile.
Cain: I can't just leave you alone here. It might be frightening, but I want you to come to the site of the incident with me.
But I'll need you to obey any orders I give you so that I can protect both you and the child.
Akira: O-of course!
Cain: Thank you. Don't worry, I won't tell you to do anything difficult.
Now, let's go!
✦✧☾✧✦
Bandit Boss: --cough it all up! If I find out you're hiding something from me, there's gonna be consequences!
Little Boy: Sniffle… Waaahhh…
Bandit: Shut up, brat! You wanna die?!
Woman with Long Hair: Dear, please! Just bear it silently…!
Man with Black Hair: W-we've already given you everything we have! Please, at least let us keep our lives…!
What we found was a group of bandits with dangerous looks in their eyes, and a family covered in wounds.
I wondered if the family had been on a journey of some kind. The axle of their wagon had broken, and it had toppled over on its side, stuck in the underbrush.
We were hidden in its shadow. I silently gestured, indicating that there were seven people and weapons were already drawn, and Cain nodded before pointing to a hollow in a large tree.
This time I nodded. I quietly crept over and managed to hide myself in the hollow without making a sound.
The very second Cain had confirmed I was in position, Cain's drew his sword and jumped directly into the group of bandits.
Cain: That's enough! Put down your weapons.
The Bandits: Wha--?!
Cain: I am one of the Sage's wizards, Cain. If you recognize that name, then you'll know that you'll be better off surrendering.
Bandit Boss: Cain…?! You mean the former Captain of the Knights?!
Woman with Long Hair: Lord Cain?! Oh, God, thank you…!
Little Boy: Hic… A…are you here to save us…?
Cain smiled reassuringly at the sobbing boy.
Cain: Of course I am. I know it's been scary, but it's all okay now.
Now then, gentlemen, this is your final warning. Put down your weapons and surrender.
Bandit Boss: …Dammit! Everyone, get him!
Cain: <Gladius Procella>!
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: --You were as amazing as always, Cain!
As you might expect, his battle against the bandits only lasted for a moment or two.
Tying up the bandits, escorting the family out of the forest, and giving our report on the incident to the appropriate authorities meant that it was very late by the time we were done, but we were still both feeling upbeat.
Akira: Cain, you were so cool! That little boy even said you made him want to become a knight when he grows up.
Cain: Haha. Kind of wild to think that in a decade or two, he'd become my junior.
Cain grinned proudly, though his words were still lighthearted. Seeing that smile of his reminded me of something.
Akira: Wait, speaking of… Wouldn't you say the thing that you'd want to leave behind for the future--you know, what we were talking about earlier--would be the path you took to knighthood?
Cain: Well, sure, but I don't think that's something you can "leave behind".
Akira: Meaning…?
Cain: I learned what it meant to be a knight from Nicholas and my other seniors in the order.
But it's not like they were trying to "leave it behind" or anything like that.
It was just something I inherited because I admired them.
The pride I take in being a knight and the way it makes me see the world is the same.
The stars flew past us. I recalled what I'd just seen.
The smile he'd given me when I was freaking out, for one. And his back as he unflinchingly charged in to help people.
That little boy's sparkling eyes as we parted with his family.
Akira: (…To yearn for something, and to leave something behind…)
I smiled. I could assert it with certainty, from the very bottom of my heart.
Akira: Then I think it's fine if you never leave anything behind.
I mean, everyone else will remember what a cool and just knight you were!
Training Episode: Something I Want to Teach You
Cain: --Heeey, c'mon downnn.
Akira: (Hm? What's Cain doing under that tree?)
Cain: Look, c'mon, this smells sooo tasty, right? If you come down, you'll get to eat it!
Akira: (He's waving some sausage at the tree…? What is going on?)
Cain: Woah, Master Sage! Good timing, can you tell me how to--
Akira: Y-yes! What is it?
Cain: When there's a cat stuck up a tree, how do you get it to come down? Is offering them sausage no good?
Akira: Huh? …Oh! There's a cat with a necktie wrapped around it in the branches of the tree…!
That yellow tie is yours, isn't it? What happened?
Cain: I was drying it in the sun over there, but a sudden wind blew it away and got wrapped around the poor thing while it was sleeping.
Like, I get it, if I was in the middle of a good nap and something interrupted it like that, I'd freak out, too. So, what I'm saying is…
Akira: It ran up the tree with your necktie…
Cain: Yeah, basically. It'll be dangerous if it catches on something and tightens around its neck, so I want to get it off as soon as possible, but…
Grey Cat: ……
Akira: (It's ears are totally flattened… It's very wary of Cain.)
(Maybe he surprised it with how loud and energetic he is? Cain's really good with dogs, but maybe cats find him a little intimidating…?)
Umm, Cain. You asked me for a way to get a cat out of a tree, right?
Cain: Yeah! You got anything?
Akira: I do! First, let's tone down the volume. And as for the sausage…
"Meeting the Little You's Eyes" Cain SR Card Story - Special Nougat
Cain: Let's see, cookies, cakes, scones, whipped cream… Looks like the sweets for the party are all in order.
…Oh, right. Oz zaid that since we got the nougat prepared in time, we should put it out with everything else, too.
…Huh?
(Weird, this nougat looks like the stuff I got from this old man in the neighborhood that made you stop talking after you ate it…)
(It made your teeth stick together, so if you popped the whole thing in your mouth at once, you wouldn't be able to open your mouth again for a while…)
(Is this really something we should be serving along side tea sweets…? Wait, but Oz bought this specifically for the party. Maybe it'll be fine as long as we put out milk along with the tea…)
Owen: Hello, Sir Knight.
Cain: Woah, Owen! When did you get here?!
Owen: Ever since you were locked in here and forced into working. So the whoooole time.
Cain: Ah, hey! Those sweets are for the party, you can't just go snacking on them!
Owen: Whatever.
Cain: Don't you "whatever" me. Mitile and Riquet are really looking forward to them. If you just go and eat them it'll be like that thing with the cream puffs all over again…
Owen: If you really want to stop me, why not force the issue? Ufufu, do you think you can stop a Northern wizard, Sir Knight?
And by the time the battle is over, just how do you think these lovely sweets that Mitile and Riquet so excited for will end up?
Cain: Come on, man…
…
…Alright, fine. Let's make a deal.
✦✧☾✧✦
Owen: A deal?
Cain: We're done with those ones. Eat as many as you like.
Owen: Excuse me? Get with the program and keep trying to stop me. You're a knight, aren't you?
Cain: I never said I didn't have an ulterior motive. So, since we're already on the subject…
I'll let you eat any of the rest of the sweets you want, just don't eat any of this nougat. Okay?
It's special nougat that Oz prepared his very self for Riquet and Mitile. I want to make sure they get to have it.
Owen: …
Hmmph…
You should know saying that just makes me want to eat it.
<Cure Memini>
Cain: Ah!
Owen: I'm not making a deal with you. All of this is mine, and poor, delicate Sir Knight is left with nothing at all.
Thanks for deciding my next snack, though. Munch.
Cain: …
Owen: Ufufu…
…
…?
…! …?! ……!!
Cain: Nice! Mission status: flawless victory! It really is the type of nougat that makes it so you can't open your mouth!
I knew you were gonna try to eat everything here, but you can't do that now that you can't open your mouth, huh?
Owen: …!
Cain: Whoops.
Owen: …!!
Cain: Are you telling me I shouldn't dodge when you try to hit me? But I've seen you try to do that so many times it just comes naturally now, y'know?
That's what it means to cohabitate, after all, and we've sure spent a lot of time doing that now. I'm totally used to the way you treat me now.
Owen: ……!
Cain: Woah woah woah, don't kill yourself about it! Your teeth will still probably be stuck together when you come back to life, so there's no point.
After I take all these sweets out to the dining hall, I'll warm up some milk for you. Drink it, and the nougat should melt easy-peasy.
Back in a flash!
Owen: …!
Training Episode: Both Owens
Cain: Whew…
Akira: Oh, Cain. You look kind of worn out, is everything okay?
Cain: Oh, Master Sage. Yeah, just, little Owen was throwing a tantrum…
Akira: A tantrum? Was there something he wanted, or something he wanted to do?
Cain: You remember the nougat from the party we had the other day, the stuff that glues your mouth shut? He really really wanted to try it again.
Akira: Umm… Oh, you mean the really tasty nougat that Oz brought?
Didn't he already eat all of it?
Cain: Yeah, exactly. So instead…
I offered him marzipan dipped in honey.
Akira: …Huh? Honey-dipped marzipan…in place of nougat…?
Cain: I figured the flavor and like, how it feels to eat it are close enough.
Akira: …
I…I suppose, maybe, it could be, if you just ignore about half of what both of them are like, and…and…
Cain: It's okay, Master Sage. You can just say it up front. Repeat after me: "There's no way those are similar!"
Little Owen already let me have it. He said, "They're completely different!"
Akira: (Yeah, that tracks…)
Cain: So I had to give him a bunch of candy and stuff to get him to calm down, and once it seemed like he'd finally chilled out, he went back to normal and then went off somewhere on his own.
But anyway, I was thinking about how normal Owen and little Owen both say the same things about sweets.
Like…you know. He really is "Owen".
Even if he himself doesn't realize it.
"The Morning Breeze after Training" Cain SSR Card Story - A New Morning with Cain ~ Pajama Party with Central Country ~
Oz & Arthur: Happy Birthday, Cain.
Riquet & Akira: Congratulations!
Cain: Yay!
Arthur & Riquet & Akira: Yaaaay!
Oz: …
Riquet: Now Oz, you need to do this too. You need to put your fingers like this, and your thumb up like this, and then cheerfully say it as loud as you can.
Oz: …Yay.
Cain: Thank you, all of you! I'm so happy you guys are willing to celebrate with me like this.
I've been excited for this ever since Riquet said we should have a pajama party in my room tonight.
Arthur: That is wonderful to hear. To ensure we don't let your expectations go to waste, we'll do our best to make this a special night for you.
Akira: We're all really pumped up about it! Right, Oz?
Oz: …Yes.
Riquet: Now let's get right into it. It's time to present Cain with his presents!
Cain: Alright!! Tha…
Hey, can you let go of it? So I can have it?
Riquet: Ufufu. You didn't think I'd relinquish it so easily, did you? First, you must answer our riddles three--the Cain Present Quiz!
Cain: The Cain Present Quiz?
Arthur: We shall unveil the presents we've prepared for you, and you must tell us whom you think prepared which.
Cain: Sure, sounds like a blast.
By the way, what happens if I'm wrong?
Arthur & Riquet & Cain: If you're wrong…?
……
Riquet: We…didn't even consider that.
Arthur: We really didn't. All we were thinking about was how to make a fun game for you.
Akira: Yeah… It was so exciting thinking about it.
Cain: Ahaha. That's very like you guys.
Since you guys came up with all this for me, I'll pump myself up to max tension so that I can enjoy this as much as possible.
So how about if I get it wrong, I don't get that present?
Arthur & Riquet & Akira: Whaaat?!
Riquet: But… But…
Arthur, Riquet, and I looked at each other, all of us imagining if that really happened. All of us wanted to give him the gifts we'd gotten for him.
Cain: Oh, don't make those faces. I'll definitely get all of them right.
Arthur & Riquet & Akira: Woahhhh!
Arthur: You're so cool, Cain.
Cain: Ahaha, right?
Akira: Alright, then let's get started! The first present iiiis…
Oz: This.
Oz placed one of the presents hidden in a big bag on Cain's desk.
It was a bottle of shining, sparkling candies of a variety of different but equally beautiful hues in a round bottle.
Riquet: Quiz: Who are these candies from?
Cain: It's gotta be you, Riquet.
Riquet: …!! Wh-why do you think so?
Cain: Remember when we went out to the market in the capital? We ate candies just like this together.
I remember you talking about how sparkly the different colors were, and how cute and tasty they were, too.
Your eyes were sparkling as much as the candy was, so it's really easy to remember.
Riquet: That's correct!!
You were the one that bought them back then, but it's your birthday, so I bought it for you this time!
Cain: Thank you. I'm really happy with it.
But see? Easy peasy. C'mon, show me the next one!
Arthur & Riquet: Yay!
Akira: Alright, your next gift is…
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: …This!
I carefully placed an expensive bottle of wine on top of the desk.
Cain: This is…from Northern Country, right? And it's pretty hard to get your hands on, too!
Oz:* You once said you would like to try it.
Cain: Woah.
Arthur & Riquet: Oops.
Oz: ?
Arthur: L-Lord Oz, the point of this game is to let Cain figure out who selected each gift…
Oz: ……
I see…
Oz didn't understand how he'd messed up, much less the point of the game itself, but Cain just grinned and picked up the bottle of wine.
Cain: Ahaha. This present must be from you, Oz!
Arthur & Akira: That's right!
Cain: I'm really lucky that I can drink something as rare as this. Oz, when I open it, let's drink together!
Oz: Fine. I will join you.
Cain: Alright, just two more… Just two more right answers, and they're all mine!
Arthur: Why don't we have you see the last two at the same time? Lord Oz, Riquet, if you would.
The two of them nodded, and took my and Arthur's presents out of the bag.
Oz: This is a charm in the shape of a sword. The design is reminiscent of your own.
Riquet: This is a towel. It's soft and comfy, and it looks like it'll have good absorbency, too.
Cain: Woah. Both of them had a lot of thought put into them, huh.
Hmm… Which one's from Arthur, and which one's from the Sage…
Cain's eyes went from the charm to the towel and back, regarding both very seriously. He put his hand on his chin, thinking deeply.
Watching him put so much thought into this had me feeling kind of excited.
Akira: (I wonder how he'd feel if he knew that the gift Arthur ended up getting was one I thought about buying for him, too…)
(When there's multiple people putting the same amount of effort into picking out a present for someone, of course some of those thought patterns are going to resemble each other… I wonder if Cain's going to be able to get it right.)
Cain: Alright, I got this!
The charm is from Arthur, and the towel is from the Sage!
Arthur: …! That's right!!
Cain: Hell yeah!
Akira: Amazing… How did you know?
Cain: The charm might be small, but it's pretty carefully made, and the detailing is fairly elaborate. That strikes me as more Arthur-like.
But more than anything, it's just the fact that he has the utmost faith in my sword that makes me think it's from him.
On the flipside, the towel was definitely chosen by someone who sees me every day.
It's the kind of thing that'd be nice to have around after, say, my morning training when I'm super sweaty. So it makes sense to me that it'd be from the Sage, since they keep a close eye on everyone here in the manor.
Arthur: I should've expected nothing less. You're very perceptive.
Akira: You really are. I don't think I'd be able to get all of that from just looking at those gifts…
To be honest, I was worrying a lot about whether or not this was a special enough gift for your birthday.
But I figured that something simple but useful would serve you best, so after all my fretting I ended up settling for a towel…
Cain: There's no such thing as a gift that's better or worse than any other. I'm happy to receive anything, because I know it was chosen with me in mind.
So lemme say it again. Thanks, guys!
Riquet: Hehe, I'm glad you're happy, Cain.
Oz: This night is intended to be a celebration for you.
Arthur: We've prepared much more than just this game, so prepare yourself.
Akira: So, let us say it again, too…
Oz & Riquet & Arthur & Akira: Happy birthday, Cain!
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: (Mmph…is it morning already…? My bed feels weird…)
(Oh, right… Last night I was in Cain's room, and we ended up all falling asleep on top of each other…)
I slowly blinked a few times, trying to shake off the sleepiness, and my eyes met Cain's. He was standing next to the bed.
The gentle light streaming through the window illuminated the outline of his body, as if he were part of the morning sunlight itself.
Akira: G-good morning, Cain.
Cain's gentle gaze softened further, and he smiled at me, still rumpled from having just woken up.
Cain: Good morning, Master Sage.
Akira: Wait, where are…?
I sat myself up and looked around, and I was the only one on the bed, still extra big from magic cast during our pajama party before we went to sleep.
Cain: Arthur, Oz, and Riquet all woke up a little before dawn and then left together.
You were still fast asleep, so they didn't want to disturb you. But was that really a kindness, I wonder?
Akira: O-of course it was. If anything I should thank all of you for the courtesy…
Um, since you have that towel, were you about to go out for you morning training? Sorry, I can leave now too, so…
Seeing the towel that I'd given him just the night before over his shoulders made me scramble to get out of his bed.
But Cain just lifted a hand to stop me and shook his head.
Cain: No, no. I got ready for it, yeah, but I was already thinking that if you woke up before I left, I could just skip today and hang out with you instead.
So I was kind of watching you, wondering if you'd wake up or not.
Seeing Cain look so bashful reminded me of the invigorating feeling of the morning sun on my face.
Dawn, the time when darkness was chased away by light, deeply suited him, in my opinion.
Backed by clear and bright sunlight, Cain's expression softened a little bit more.
Cain: If you want, how about we go for a walk? One that's a little longer than usual.
Since we woke up together on a special day like this, I want to spend a little extra time with you if I can.
And, let's not forget…
Cain pulled the towel off his shoulders with one hand and held it up.
Cain: If we start getting too sweaty, I've got this towel you gave me.
Ahh, the gift I'd picked out for him, just for him.
I could've just told him that I was happy it was getting used, but his bright smile made some deep part of my chest feel warm.
I nodded happily.
Akira: Of course, I'd be happy to!
Cain: Nice! I'm glad I get to make another memory with you, Master Sage.
Akira: Me, too. I'm happy I get to wake up with you and spend time with you…
I know I've already said it a bunch, but happy birthday, Cain!
Training Episode: His Part of the Morning
Akira: Oh, Cain. Good morning.
Cain: Oh, is that you, Master Sage? High five!
Good morning, Akira! Good smile you've got today.
Akira: Same to you! …Oh? Um, why is your hair wet?
Did it start raining while you were out training…?
(It doesn't look like it's raining, but maybe it was sprinkling for a little bit…?)
Cain: Nah, I just got really sweaty, so I took a bath.
Honestly, it's my favorite part of the morning. First is going out and getting my body moving so that all of me is awake.
And then I get in the bath with the water just the right temperature, and bam, it's the perfect finish!
Akira: It's somehow surprising that the final touch to your sunny morning is water…!
How refreshing!
Cain: Yeah! It really puts me in the right mindset for starting the day.
Let's both put our all into today, Master Sage!
"At the End of the Chain" Cain R Card Story - Even a Runaway Horse...
DISCLAIMER: cain gives bad horse advice in this. do not do what he says if you're on a bolting horse. it's only good advice for less extreme situations than this
✦✧☾✧✦
Akira: It's kind of wild thinking about how all of the animals here are someone's pet…
Oh, but speaking of, I know he wasn't a pet, but Cain, you had a horse, right?
Cain: Yeah. So when I saw a horse earlier, I started thinking about him again…
Horse: Whinny!!
Cain & Akira: …!
Guy With A Rabbit: A horse with a rider is trying to bolt!
Horse Owner: S-Stop! I command you to stop!
Cain: Master Sage, get behind me.
Akira: R-right.
Horse Owner: What's wrong with you all of a sudden?! Please, you need to calm down!!
Cain: Its owner isn't keeping calm, either. Then, first…
Hey, mister owner! I know you're worried about your precious pet, but you need to calm down if you want to get anywhere!
Horse Owner: …!
Cain: Try taking some deep breaths. In, out, in, out… C'mon, you do it too.
Horse Owner: …In, out…
Cain: There we go. Feeling more in control? Then relax your hold on the reins.
Horse Owner: R-right…
Cain: Yeah, good! Keep it up!
Try to keep your center of gravity where it's supposed to be, and speak to it calmly.
Horse Owner: It's okay, Valiant. It's okay, so calm down…
Horse: neigh
Cain: So your name is Valiant, huh? That's a good name for a clever horse like you. C'mere, here you go… Good boy.
Akira: (It's nuzzling into Cain's hand… It's like it never even went wild.)
Horse Owner: I--I must extend my thanks for your assistance. Is there any way I can repay you?
Cain: Haha, don't even worry about it. I'm just glad Valiant is okay.
Akira: (Cain even being able to calm down a bolting horse is really just like him, huh…)
do you know where we could find the main translated kiss mark story?
as far as i'm aware it hasn't been translated yet! it is on my list, but i have a lot of irl stuff that i need to deal with before i can work on it sadly.
but if you'll wait i'll have it for you at some point for sure!
"Just the Two of Us at a Banquet of Love" Cain SSR Card Story - The Day You Are Engraved With Love
This happened after we'd settled the issue of the Calamity's influence safe and sound.
Arthur, Cain, and I were sampling some of the refreshments and looking around at the beautiful hall this party was taking place in.
We were at a party for Cental Country's upper class called "Princess Lyra's Soirée."
Akira: It's so amazing… The atmosphere here really makes it feel like this is a special occasion. Like, they're really good at setting the mood, that kind of thing.
Arthur: Indeed. It truly feels as though we've stepped into a party being held in a field of stars.
As he spoke, Arthur lifted his glass to his lips--but then noticed something, and lowered it again.
Cain: Hey, want me to get you a refill?
Arthur: Thank you, Cain, but I can do this much on my own.
Cain: No way. Please let me do this for you.
You might be under a spell that makes it difficult for other people to tell that you're the real Prince Arthur, but I know if I let you go alone that--
???: Um…
There was an abrupt voice from behind us, that of a young woman. Her words were like the clear ringing of a bell.
The three of us turned around and there she stood, a glass in each hand, smiling at us.
Ruby-Eyed Debutante: If the lovely gentleman here is in search of a new drink, perhaps this would be to your tastes?
It's a beautiful ruby shade, is it not? I'm sure that with just one sip, you'll learn to enjoy its stimulating acidity.
Arthur: Why, thank you.
This drink is the same shade are your eyes, isn't it? It's truly lovely.
Cain: ……
Ruby-Eyed Debutante: It's so kind of you to say so. Please, take this glass.
Cain: …Wow, that's my best friend for you! Gotta say, I'm pretty jealous you've got such pretty young things talking you up like that!
Cain threw an arm around Arthur's shoulder, tugging him a bit closer. For a moment, I thought I saw him bring his mouth to Arthur's ear.
Akira: (What's up with Cain?)
Arthur: Ahaha. Come on, you can't be talking like that in front of the lady herself. Are you already drunk?
Cain: Sorry, sorry. Guess I must be.
He brushed it off lightheartedly and let his arm fall away from Arthur. Arthur turned back to the young woman.
Arthur: My sincerest apologies, but my friend here already taken it upon themself to be the one who chooses what I drink next.
He took a step towards me, smiling.
Akira: (Huh?!)
Startled though I was at this sudden, I promptly nodded. What else could I do?
✦✧☾✧✦
Arthur: I am sure there are others here who would surely accept that glass from someone as lovely as yourself. I do hope you and they have a wonderful time this evening.
Ruby-Eyed Debutante: …Oh, is that right. Well, I suppose you are correct.
'Tis a shame, but I shall leave it at that. May the three of you have a wonderful evening as well.
She gave an easy smile and, with a turn that made the hem of her dress flutter and fan like a butterfly's wings, disappeared into the ballroom's crowd.
Cain: Good work, Arthur. I knew you'd be able to make our stories match.
Sorry if we startled you, Master Sage. I couldn't tell you the plan on the spot right in front of her, you know?
Akira: Oh, no! It's fine! But, um, could you tell me what that was all about…?
Arthur: Cain whispered a message into my ear, you see.
He told me I mustn't accept that glass.
Cain: If someone offers you a drink the same color as their eyes, that means accepting their invitation for a, uh… rendezvous in the garden, if you catch my drift.
Akira: Huh?! Really?
Cain: Yep. Just because we're at this party doesn't mean we're the only ones being proactive, and all that. Besides, a lady offering an invitation to a man is a sign of bravery on her part, right?
And it's also why accepting a drink the color of her eyes would've been proof of accepting her invitation. Meeting up in secret afterwards is the expectation.
Although rather than being an unspoken rule, it's more just that doing this kind of thing became popular recently.
Akira: I see…! It's kind of a fun concept. It's so classy… Having a secret conversation in the garden…
Arthur: It certainly suits the occasion. And since the invitation comes in the form of offering someone a drink, even if it gets turned down…
It simply looks like it's the drink being turned down to the people around you. Being much more discreet removes much of the shame of rejection.
Cain: So you can see why I'm glad I was able to stop Arthur before he accepted it. Because if he had…
Akira: If he had…?
Cain tapped the kiss mark on Arthur's collarbone.
Cain: Let's just say this wouldn't be the only one he'd get left with.
Akira: Huh?!
Arthur: It would be quite a stimulating turn of events, certainly.
Akira: S-stimulating… So, you mean…
When you said a rendezvous, you really did mean it like that?
Cain: Yup.
After he nodded at me, he turned back to Arthur.
And with a mischievous smile, bowed to him respectfully.
Cain: As your knight, it's a true honor to have kept your Highness from playing with fire and getting burned in the process.
✦✧☾✧✦
Arthur: …! Ahaha, I suppose I should expect no less of my knight.
You were certainly very reliable in that moment. You couldn't even see her, could you?
And yet, you understood the situation from just my reactions alone, and defended me with quick-wittedness alone. Thank you.
Cain: Haha, always happy to hear you appreciate my efforts. Your praise is always the highest honor, you know.
Their eyes met and the two of them smiled at each other. I could see the deep bond of trust that connected the two of them.
It was a quiet moment of peace for the two of them, which Arthur spoiled when he started to say something out of nowhere.
Arthur: But since we're on the subject. Cain, this is all hypothetical, but say I did want to accept…
If, like the other attendees here, I wanted to fall head-first into a passionate love affair and allow the mark of love to be carved into my skin right in front of your eyes…what would you do?
Cain: ……Excuse me?
Arthur: Should I play with fire and get burned, will you scold me? Will you blame me? Will you condemn me?
Cain: ……
Arthur's eyes shone with genuine curiosity.
Cain's mismatched eyes met that shine directly, unhesitatingly.
Akira: (How is Cain going to answer…?)
(He's Arthur's knight, but he's also his friend…)
Cain: …Well, if that time comes…
Cain gently, and yet somehow forcefully, put a fist to Arthur's chest.
Cain: I will trust that his Highness will have made up his mind to fling himself into the flames of love.
So please, make it a love you intend to persist with.
And I'll do my utmost to ensure Prince Vincent and Drummond don't find out about it, too.
He smiled, and it was tinged with the distinct light of both the dutiful knight and the playful friend.
Arthur: Oh, you won't stop me?
Cain: Nah. Whoever you choose, I'll put my faith in them. Because you chose them.
Besides, you did the same for me, didn't you?
Akira: Huh?! Wait, Cain, are you saying that…?
Cain: Wait, wait, no! I'm talking about when this kiss mark showed up on my neck, okay?
When I showed up in the dining hall with this getting shown off to everyone in the room, neither of you said anything about it, right?
Wasn't that because you thought that if I'd fallen for someone, that was my own decision to make?
Arthur: I suppose you're right. While I'd planned on letting you know about it a bit later when I could approach you privately, I had no intention of criticizing you for it.
Akira: I was pretty startled, but you're free to love anyone you want, as long as you were the one who made the decision to love them.
Cain smiled.
Cain: Y'know, I love both of you. You're both very dear to my heart.
So if either of you find someone you truly love, like in a romantic partner way, I'll protect them the way I protect you.
Cain met our gazes easily. He put a hand over his heart and bowed slightly--I knew it would be deeper if we were anywhere else.
Cain: And if anyone should oppose that love, I will stop them.
For I am your knight.
Training Episode: An Unspoken Rule
Akira: Cain, I really need to thank you for telling me about the etiquette unique to Princess Lyra's Soirée.
I was really so startled when you told us that someone offering you a drink the same color as their eyes is really an invitation to, um, y-you know.
Cain: Yeah, no problem. I was pretty startled the first time I attended and learned about them.
I, well, I sure felt ashamed. I'm glad I could stop Arthur from going through the same thing.
Akira: Hm? What do you mean?
Cain: Well, this is from when I attended my first high-class night party…
A certain young lady offered me a glass, asking if I wanted to enjoy a particular stimulating flavor.
Akira: Wait, really?
Cain: Yep. And I just blithely accepted it…
And then gulped it down right in front of her and said, "Damn, that's good n' bubbly!"
I didn't have an inkling that this might be an invitation, much less to a garden rendesvouz, so I just tasted it like I would any other drink.
Akira: Ahaha. I feel like I would've done the same thing if I'd been in your position. So, what happened after that?
Cain: She looked at me with this odd smile and said, "I suppose it's a bit too early for you to appreciate it." It felt like she was talking to her little brother or something.
Later my senior in the knights who'd been with me told me what the glass really meant. Pretty embarrassing, y'know?
Thinking back on it just reminds me of how immature I used to be. Can you not tell anyone else about this? I want my shame to be a secret just for you and me.
Akira: Yes, of course! Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me, Cain.
(It's kind of wild thinking about how Cain used to be like that, considering how deftly he sidestepped that situation earlier… But that's just another part of what makes him who he is.)
Hello fellow fan translator! My name is sellei, and I'm currently compiling a spreadsheet masterlist for mhyk chibi/4-koma translations. Would it be okay if I link the ones you did?
yeah, no problem! (sorry, it looks like i can't answer this privately since this is a side account...)
i've actually been meaning to sit down and do more thorough translations for all of cain's chibis mostly as a vanity project (expression of love) so this is a good time to think abt doing that more seriously...!!!!
sorry if any of the formatting in those event chapters is messed up, tumblr was fighting me more than usual for some reason :( please give me a heads up so i can fix it!
Sonatina of the Dark Night's Unity with the Shining Light Chapter 10
Previous Chapter
Cain: Renard.
Stray Lamentation: …
Cain: That's the name of the boy who fought valiantly to the very end. Your name.
Even if you failed to finish your journey to the military base, even if you never received the title… You are still a shining example of what a knight should be.
Stray Lamentation: …!
Bits around the eyes started to crumble and flake away, peeling away from the monster's grotesque form like old paint.
A pure and beautiful light began to shine out from between the cracks.
I blinked, and when I opened my eyes, that hideous figure was gone, replaced by a boy with his drawn sword in hand.
The expression on his face, one of brave and earnest willpower, reminded me a bit of Cain as he faced down a fearsome foe.
He seemed to suddenly remember something, and turned away from Cain to instead look at the bound men.
At first, I thought he was looking at the men who had killed him, but that was wrong.
He was looking at his younger brother.
Renard: …Rhody…
You're okay. Thank goodness…
His expression was so gentle now.
The long, long battle he'd been fighting was finally over, after all.
Rhody: Ahh… Renard…
A warm breeze caught his hair, sending it dancing.
And then, Renard silently faded away to nothing.
But he wore a content, satisfied smile as he did.
A single drop of something translucent fell from Cain and Bradley's eyes.
Bradley: …The Lamentation's gone, and the curse has been fully lifted.
Cain: Yeah.
Renard's back where he belongs now.
✦✧☾✧✦
A few days passed.
We all returned unharmed, but there was still a big kerfuffle as we explained the situation to our worried friends, apologizing for making them worry, and thanking them for worrying, too. It was all a mess, but once things had finally settled down…
Akira: (Cain asked me to come by his room so we could celebrate it all being over, but…maybe I got here too early?)
Cain, it's Akira. Sorry if I'm here too early--
Cain: Akira? …Woah, don't do that!!
Bradley: Ahahaha!
Akira: I-is everything okay?! Um, I'm coming in!
✦✧☾✧✦
Cain: Master Sage! Jeez, why did you come in… You shouldn't do that if you hear a noise like that, okay…?
Bradley: Yo, Sage. God, this is hilarious.
Akira: (…What did I just walk in on?)
The first thing that leapt out at me was the big pile of clothes in front of his closet, like it had exploded from within.
At the center of the chaos was Cain. He seemed awfully upset about the pants and shirt on his head.
Bradley, meanwhile, was lounging on Cain's sofa like he owned the place, laughing so hard there were tears in his eyes.
There was also a glass of alcohol in his hand.
Cain: Man… Uh, sorry the place is a mess right now.
Akira: Oh, no, um! Uh, what happened, exactly…?
Cain: Well, y'know, since you and Lord Arthur were gonna be dropping by, I figured I should put away all the clothes that were lying around because I was too lazy to fold them, right.
So I was shoving everything into my closet with magic, but it was more than it could hold, so the door, uh, well…
Bradley: Lemme tell you, the look on this idiot's face when the closet door slammed open was a real riot.
Akira: I…see…th-that must have been rough… Um, Bradley, you got here early too?
Bradley: Just 'cause the hags were being extra annoying today.
"Ohh, Bradley Dear, you're suuuuch a good boy~!" "Come and let us pat your head~!"
…I mean, you try gettin' chased like that around the goddamn clock. You'll start to go crazy whether you want to or not.
Bradley sighed dramatically and stretched himself out on the couch. He kept his eyes on Cain, though, watching as he shoved a jacket into the closet.
Bradley: This suuuucks. All this 'cause you couldn't help lookin' that damn monster in the eyes.
Hey, y'wanna know why the hags 'n Figaro let a thing like that run wild? That's 'cause monsters like that are usually totally harmless.
It's only a big deal if y' get cursed, and no one normal has the guts to look somethin' like that in the eye.
But you just looked it in the eye like it was nothin'. Do you have any sense of self preservation at all, man?
Cain: I mean, obviously I could tell it was bad news, but the Sage and Prince Arthur were there too. I couldn't just lower my sword and turn my back on it.
Besides, you can get pretty intense about these things too, y'know.
Bradley: 'Scuse me?
Cain: I mean, you knew what kind of curse it could put on you, and you still had my back.
Cain put the last article of clothing away, and he closed the closet door.
He turned, and caught Bradley in his simple, straightforward gaze.
Cain: Why did you save me, Bradley?
Bradley: …
Instead of answering, Bradley just downed the rest of his drink.
He set his glass down and stood up, stepping over to Cain and throwing an arm around his shoulder all friendly-like.
Bradley: Hey. What's the priciest liquor you got here?
Cain: …
For a moment, it seemed like Cain was going to say something, but the moment passed, and he stayed silent.
Instead, he put an arm around Bradley's shoulder too, returning his grin.
Cain: That bottle with the long neck. But that one's not getting opened until Arthur and Faust are here.
Buuut, you can have this lager instead. Faust already said it's not his type, and it's a bit adult for Arthur.
Cain lifted the bottle in question.
A cupboard opened on its own, and three glass mugs floated out.
Cain: Since you're here, Master Sage, would you like a glass with us? I can remove the alcohol content with magic.
Akira: Wow, really? Sure!
Cain: We'll need to do it again once Arthur and Faust get here, but…
Bradley & Cain: Cheers!
We clinked our glasses together.
Cain turned to Bradley and held up his glass.
Cain: Thank you, Bradley.
Bradley: …
Bradley said nothing in response, but I saw the corner of his mouth perk up into a small smile.
The two of them put their mugs to their lips at the same time.
Akira: (The way they think and the things that they believe in are so different and yet here they are. I'm not sure if they're similar, or maybe not so similar after all…)
Bradley & Cain: …Whew! Good stuff!
And they lowered their mugs at the same time, too.
Cain pointed at the line of foam above Bradley's lip and heartily laughed at him for it.
Bradley glowered at him and pretended like he was going to smack Cain upside the head, and Cain made an overly dramatic show of avoiding the blow, grinning all the while.
Akira: (But…maybe if they can laugh together like this more often…)
Arthur: Cain.
Faust: Sorry we're late.
Cain: Woah, hey guys. You're actually just in time.
Bradley: You're so late, it's a damned tragedy. We already went through all the good stuff without ya.
They turned and faced the door at the same time, but what came out of their mouths was the perfect opposite of each other.
Despite that, I found myself thinking how similar their backs looked from here.
Dawn and dusk may be opposite times of day, but they still share a lot of similarities, don't you think?
Sonatina of the Dark Night's Unity with the Shining Light Chapter 9
Previous Chapter
Arthur: Cain! Bradley!
Faust: Bradley, did you use magic?! The Lamentation started coming this way!
Arthur: It's almost here! Please be on your guard…!
Bradley: …tch.
Their voices from on high--they were still flying--made Bradley shoulder his gun again.
He smoothly turned from Cain to the men--his original target.
Cain: Bradley!!
Men: Ahh…!
Cain: …!
Bradley hit each of the men--other than the young man--upside the head with the butt of his gun hard enough that they lost consciousness. He gestured with his hand and his broom appeared before him, even without reciting his spell.
It didn't take more than a moment for him to fly up into the sky, but he looked back over his shoulder at Cain.
Bradley: …
I'd expected a look of anger, or maybe disdain or something similar, but I was wrong.
I wasn't sure exactly what emotion he held in his eyes just then. After all, he had lived for so much longer than Cain or I.
But to me, it looked like…
The smile you'd give to your favorite stupid rookie junior, who still didn't know anything or have any real accomplishments…but who you were sure would do something big one day.
Bradley: Quit standin' around! Let's move!
Cain: …Alright!
Master Sage, please stay here. And don't let Saku-chan run off on you!
Faust: Sage, tear open that bag I gave you! It's a simple charm, but it should be enough to keep you safe!
Akira: O-okay!
Watching Cain's ascent, I ripped open the bag in question.
A puff of powdered herbs rose into the air, spiraling around me like a red and green ribbon.
I inhaled the heavy fragrance, and felt it calming me, purifying me--but at the same time, Saku-chan puffed up in my arms, its fur standing on end.
An icy wind blew into my face, making me shiver. I could feel the temperature of the air dropping.
Arthur: It's here…! The Stray Lamentation is here!
It appeared from out of the darkest depths of the forest, paying no heed to any of us but Cain and Bradley. It rushed at them, and only them.
Coal black arms reached for them.
Young Man: Is…is that…? Is that my brother…?
It didn't react to the sound of its younger brother's voice, nor to the presence of the men that had killed it. What a horrid existence. What a sad and painful thing it had become.
What a sad and painful thing…Renard had become. That was his name.
That was the name of a brave boy who had set out on a journey, aspiring to be a knight someday.
Arthur: I heard what you told my familiar! Do you know its name?!
Bradley: Yeah! But…dammit, knock it off, you damn monster!
Cain: Shit, he's moving so erratically I can't get a good look into his eyes! Arthur, Faust, do you think you can stop him somehow?
Faust: I don't have the materials needed for the magic circle we were planning to use, but… I should still be able to stop it for the few seconds you need to tell it its name.
Arthur! Are you familiar with the Thiargo Technique?
Arthur: Yes! Well, I've read up on it, but I've never actually used it…
Faust: Good enough! I'll fill in the blanks!
Cain! Bradley! One hundred sixty-eight seconds from now, Arthur and I will have a circle ready in the air above that pile of debris.
The two of you need to lure the Lamentation below it before then. And I mean one hundred sixty-eight seconds exactly!
Cain: Gotcha! We'll leave you to it!
Faust and Arthur's brooms were off like a shot.
Cain and Bradley, on the other hand, were circling the Lamentation side by side, keeping just out of its reach.
Cain: Hey, quick question. Are you actually strong enough to kill the Lamentation?
Bradley: Yeah, if I can actually hit its vitals. Well, anywhere else'll still hurt it bad.
Cain: Understood. You go high.
Bradley: Don't order me around, brat. You go low, you hear me?
Cain: Sure, works for me! Let's do this!
Bradley: I just said not to order me around!
Akira: (High? Low? What are they doing…?)
I wasn't following them, but they knew their plan. The two of them sharply veered around and flew towards the Lamentation.
Cain shot down at a sharp angle before leaping off his broom and hitting the ground.
At the same time, Bradley flew upwards towards the clouds.
Even though its prey had scattered, the Lamentation did not stop. It simply began to focus on Cain, the one who had looked most deeply into its eyes.
Cain fended off its attacks with his sword, but still, it began to overwhelm him. That, however, was when Bradley stood up atop his broom, an imposing overseer to the scene in front of me.
Bradley: Hundred twenty, hundred nineteen… C'mon, this way, you damn monster!
The Stray Lamentation: …!
Cain: Hundred four, hundred three… Hey now, don't forget about me, big guy.
Young Man: Eek…!
Akira: (It's getting more aggressive! But…)
Cain: Sixty-eight, sixty-seven…
Bradley: Sixty-six, sixty-five…
On the ground, Cain tempted the enraged monster forward with his swordplay, while Bradley beguiled it with magic bullets from the sky.
At the same time they were keeping perfect count until the magic circle was complete, carefully and precisely controlling the Lamentation's motions to lead it where they needed to.
I certainly didn't understand the intricacies of their plan based off of what they'd been shouting at each other, but the two of them clearly did, and each was fulfilling his role perfectly.
Well, that was probably because their brains worked similarly.
The genius who had once led a band of Northern wizards, and the man who ascended to his country's peak as the commander of its knights when he could barely have been called an adult.
Arthur: We're finishing it!
Faust: Bring it here!
Bradley: Hell yeah! Ten, nine…
Cain: …Three, two, one, zero!
There the Lamentation stood, at the center of the circle drawn in the night sky.
Faust and Arthur held their magic focuses above their heads.
Faust: <Salliuqnart Mullcredo>
Arthur: <Pernoctant Nixzo>!
A massive hand of pale light reached out of the bottom of the circle.
With all the grace of a child trying to catch a bug, it slammed down on the Lamentation, pinning it in place.
Faust: You get five seconds! Hurry!
Cain: Gotcha!
Cain circled around to the front of the Lamentation.
But it was desperately struggling and writhing under the massive hand, trying to escape. Its head whipped this way and that, moving at angles that should have been impossible.
Cain: Dammit! I still can't meet its eyes…!
Arthur: Gh… I can't keep it up much longer!
Faust: Cain! Get away…!
Bradley: --<Adnopotensum>
The crack of a gunshot reverberated through the air.
That bullet was a sun, a shooting star, a streak of blinding light cutting the sky in two.
Faust: Oh…
Arthur: Bradley's strengthening magic! Now that we have this…!
<Pernoctant Nixzo>!
Faust: <Salliuqnart Mullcredo>
The glowing outline of the circle shined more brightly, and the Stray Lamentation fell still.
Bradley stood in the sky, far over Cain, grinning down at him.
Why, you could even say it was a gentle and warm expression, if you could be sure Bradley wouldn't hear you saying it.
Bradley: Finish it.
Cain.
Cain: …Yeah.
Cain nodded decisively.
He knelt down the way he would when talking to a child, and met the Lamentation's gaze, one so muddied and clouded over with its cursed resentments, with eyes that shone with brilliant sunlight.
Directly, unafraid.
