#code realize translation

[wildflower-otome]

[Translation] Code Realize: Wintertide Miracles - Herlock Sholmes Short Story

Source: Code Realize Wintertide Miracles Switch Stellaworth Booklet Scan Credit: Kou

We had returned to London after quite some time away.

While my lover Sholmes and I were in the middle of a date—.

'—Oh-'

The sound of something snapping echoed along with the sound of his voice.

 Wondering what had happened, I turned towards Sholmes—.

‘Oh? Since when did you start wearing your hair down…..?’

Sholmes’s hair, which was usually tied up, had completely come undone.

Seeing his hair look unexpectedly different, Sholmes laughed as if not sure what to do.

‘Ah, no, I didn’t let it down myself. It would appear that the tie holding it up has snapped.’

As he explained, Sholmes touched his hair as if restless.

Similarly, apart from when it was time to sleep or after he had just come out of the bath, I never saw his hair this way either, so it was a strange feeling for me too.

‘If it makes you uncomfortable, should we buy a hair tie from a shop somewhere?’

‘…..No, I’ve got spares at the office. Let’s continue our date. I could not bear to have my time with you wasted on something that is just for my convenience.’

‘Heheh. You don’t need to worry so much about something like that.’

As he smiled and put his arm through mine, I drew as close to him as I could without it becoming difficult to walk.

And when I did, Sholmes’s free flowing hair touched my cheek.

‘Seeing it like this…..your hair really is very beautiful, Sholmes.’

‘Really? From my point of view I’ve just been letting it grow longer out of laziness…..’

‘.....H~m. That it’s so pretty even without you doing any upkeep on it is kind of unfair I think.’

‘Hahaha. To me, your hair is much more beautiful.’

As if in unison with Sholmes’s smile, the strands of his hair softly swayed in the wind. And as it did—

—Um, excuse me!

‘..........?’

A voice called out from a short distance behind us.

I had no idea who they were calling for but—

‘Oh, it appears they mean us? This voice isn’t a familiar one, however…..’

Sholmes immediately determined that the voice had been calling out to us.

As I stopped walking at the same time as Sholmes, turning around to look behind me—just as he had deduced, I could tell that two men were heading directly towards us, walking quickly as they came closer.

‘Hmph…..Cardia. Just in case, would you mind getting back behind me? I don’t sense any hostility from them but…..considering the level of safety in this area, there’s no guarantee they’re not up to no good.’

‘A-Alright.’

Following Sholmes’s instructions, I took a step back—despite them still being a short distance away.

It was obvious that the men were looking our way as they smiled and waved their hands.

Facing Sholmes, who was being cautious, hiding me behind him, they called out-

—Hey there. What a truly lovely pair of sisters we’ve got here.

—If you don’t mind, how about having some tea with us after this?

‘————’

‘............Huh?’

Sholmes stiffened.

I was having trouble making sense of the words I had heard just now.

...........U-Um-

Just now…..If I hadn’t heard them wrong-

—“Sisters.” Is that what they’d called Sholmes and I….?

‘Um…..Sholmes?’

‘.....Ha, hahaha. Of all things- Not even I could have predicted this.’

—Sholmes’s laugh seemed somehow lacking in energy.

Just as I was wondering what to say-

The men drew nearer to us with rapid footsteps…..finally arriving right before Sholmes’s eyes.

It would appear they had been trying to chat us up in order to take us to tea.

With an expression on his face that could be called friendly, one of the men went to speak to Sholmes.

‘—Hey, what exactly is it you want with me? My apologies, but right now I am in the middle of a date with my beloved.’

Hearing his “voice” as he spoke with a pleasant smile, they froze. Looking baffled, they once more took a good look at Sholmes’s face and figure—noting the “height difference” between him and I, who was hiding a little ways behind…..it appeared they had finally noticed that Sholmes was a man.

—P-Pardon us…..!!

Seeming truly awkward as they apologised, the men quickly took their leave.

…..However, it was even more awkward for us, still standing in the same spot.

‘.....Sholmes. Um, that was…..?’

‘My hair being unbound as the cause notwithstanding, to think I would be mistaken for a woman…..and that you and I would be taken for sisters is something I really did not expect.’

So speaking, he sighed.

All the same, since they had been able to realise that he was a man straight away, it appeared he had not taken too great a shock from what had happened.

Even so, Sholmes, in his own way, was likely at least a little perturbed—

‘.....If anything…..perhaps I should take this as an opportunity to cut my hair once and for all. If I do, there won’t be any more strange misunderstandings, like just now—’

‘Y-You musn’t!’

Hearing me raise my voice so suddenly, Sholmes’s eyes widened.

Still, there was absolutely no way I could accept what he’d said just now…..!

‘I-I like your hair, Sholmes…..! And also, if you cut it short, I won’t be able to do the hair care I always do for you after you have your bath…..!’

Hearing me insist so strongly, to the point that even I knew I’d gotten too worked up—

‘—Fufu, I see. That certainly would be…..a problem. We’d be losing out on one more reason for us to touch each other.’

Smiling, Sholmes nodded.

‘.....I understand. If it bothers you that much, I shall give up on cutting my hair. However, let’s see…..perhaps in exchange…..Cardia. Even if it’s just a little, why not try growing your hair out longer too?’

‘.....? Me?’

‘Yes. Ever since we’ve met, you’ve had the same hairstyle, right? Of course, even now you are more than lovely enough but…..’

Sholmes suddenly took up a tuft of my hair—.

‘I, too…..would love to see your beautiful, shining hair gently swaying in the wind.’

Without hesitation, he kissed me affectionately—.

[thewild--flower]

[Translation] Code: Realize Bouquet of Rainbows Short Story - Victor Frankenstein

Source: Code: Realize Bouquet of Rainbows Stella Exclusive Booklet

Scan credit: Kou

Summary: Victor ponders over some things as he prepares more poison-resistant items for Cardia.

'I Want to Let You Touch' - Victor Frankenstein

Clear skies. The gentle rays of the sun filtering down through the trees. 

And, in the big basket next to me, large amounts of various kinds of bedding and clothing.

I poured water into the bucket in front of me, and after carefully measuring out the anti-poison concentrate solution, added it in as well. After that, I mixed the concoction thoroughly….. alright. Looking good.

'Now then, let's begin!'

I spoke aloud to psyche myself up as I briskly rolled up my sleeves.

It had been two months since I had succeeded in developing the anti-poison solution with Cardia's cooperation— ever since then, I had decided that I would apply the treatment to anything she might need in her daily life, just as I was doing right now.

Apart from material goods, I had also completed treatment of any place in the mansion that Cardia might touch bare-handed early on. As far as her day to day life in the mansion went, there was no longer any need for her to be self-conscious, and she herself had said that 'I’m alright now.'

But from my point of view as an onlooker, truth be told it wasn’t nearly enough yet.

Not too long ago, when there had been a long spell of rain, she had had to spread out her washed clothes and bedding cover in front of the fireplace and wait for them to dry.

–Having seen that, it was clear that I needed to make some extras. After talking it over with everyone, I ended up getting given this and that…..there were a lot of further additions.

Ultimately, the number of things to be processed amounted to quite a bit but….. thinking that having a lot of spares would be a good thing for her, I happily took them on.

'..... This time for sure, I have to make certain she won't be lacking for anything.'

With that determination hidden within my chest, I continued the monotonous process of pulling out each of the fabrics from the basket and submerging them in the liquid.

'..........Hm, what's this—? I wonder if it's something Lupin gave her.'

It was a pillowcase decorated with beautiful embroidery, of the kind any girl would love to have.

Now and then while I was working away, I came across various items that I didn't remember seeing before.

This was just my guess, but I thought it likely they were presents from the members of our gang.

'Wow. These are some high quality sheets…..! A gift from the Count for sure. Umm, and let’s see, this plain unpatterned blanket…..perhaps from Van? And then— haha. This towel with the passionate love message sewn onto it, totally something from Impey.’

The different pieces were such a clear reflection of each of our group members’ tastes that it was almost enough to make me laugh.

But, among the many items—

There wasn’t anything that Cardia herself had chosen.

For me, that was a cause for concern.

Truth be told, it didn’t seem like she had much of an inclination to choose the things she liked.

The poison within her body greatly limited her actions.

Up until now, she had likely been unconsciously avoiding coming into contact with anything of her own volition. But, now that she had come to live with us, and started to go outside…..she had gradually started to express herself more, and in different ways.

I was tremendously happy to see that change in her.

As much as possible….that’s right, although it was just that.

I wanted to do everything within my power so that she could live life as a normal girl. And then maybe someday—

I wanted her to gain the freedom to touch.

That was my duty, and one of my goals.

It would be the least I could do to atone.

‘Ah….. this is no good. I’ve gotten distracted. Now then, let’s continue.’

There were still a lot of garments left in the basket.

A hat, some gloves. Socks and trousers.

I plunged them one after the other into the liquid to stop myself from thinking about unnecessary things.

A shirt, some ribbons, and then— underwear.

‘............? ............!?’

—I looked up at the sky and took a deep breath.

Let’s count prime numbers.

Now let’s think about some mathematical equations.

And while I’m at it, let’s think about world peace.

‘............Alright. It’s fine, fine, I am totally OK. No problem at all.’

That’s right, this was no problem at all.

I was definitely not flustered by something like this.

Keep it together.

That’s right, keep it together.

‘Of course, this is just part of what it means to prepare her clothes. And…. think about it. I always see her bare skin whenever I conduct my medical examinations, at this point something like underwear shouldn’t- That’s right! Something like underwear shouldn’t—!’

Ah, just who was I making excuses to right now?

Even if I were to continue to reproach myself with such vigorous explanations, in the end this was just a job I had to complete, so surely there was no need to be so down on myself like this—.

‘.....Victor? What are you up to?’

‘Uwaaaaaaaaah!?’

All of a sudden, a voice called out to me.

Realizing who it belonged to, I let out an involuntary yell.

‘............You startled me. Should I not have called out to you like that?’

Eyes blinking in surprise, she—

That is, Cardia, asked me such a question.

‘Huh!? No, not at all!? That is—’

As I spoke, I wildly waved my hands around in the air in front of me to show that that wasn’t the case at all.

My hands, that were still holding onto her underwear—.

‘............’

‘............Huh!? Ah! No, this is-!?’

It’s not like that, I wasn’t doing anything to be ashamed about, I had just been in the middle of poison proofing these with all the things the others had given me, thinking you might need them, so at any rate, I swear I didn’t have even the slightest bit of bad intentions—!!!

‘Thank you. You’ve been poison-proofing new clothes for me.’

‘.................................................Yes, that’s right.’

In the end, the fountain of excuses that had been about to burst out of me as if exploding completely disappeared at her smile—I could only simply nod my head in agreement.

Somehow or other, I was able to start up my work again, all the while she remained there watching me fixedly as I continued—.

‘....I want to help too. Would I be in the way?’

‘No, not at all. Of course it’s all right, thank you.’

After a moment, she went to sit beside me and began to help.

A little while after that—.

For the time being, we had finished submerging all the clothes I had been given in the poison-proofing liquid and the bucket was now full to the point of almost overflowing. 

Cardia was gazing at the surface of the water as it wavered as if she were greatly interested.

‘.....Right then, let’s rest for a bit. There’s not really anything we can do for now until they’re fully soaked.’

‘I understand. Let’s take a break together.’

The two of us went to sit in the shade of a tree a small distance away.

A breeze blew from somewhere, quietly causing its leaves to shake.

‘.....The weather is really nice.’

‘Haha, you’re right. We should take Sisi for a walk after this.’

As I looked at Cardia as we talked…..

She was staring intently upwards.

When I followed her gaze—ah, I see now.

‘.....The leaves, they’re so translucent and pretty.’

‘.....Yeah.’

At a distance that could be reached if she stretched out her hand, were various shades of green.

And as she gazed at them——.....she suddenly spoke.

‘I’m sorry.’

‘.....Huh?  Wh-what’s the matter all of a sudden?’

She glanced over at me.

Her face was full of sadness, shadowed as if in complete opposition to the sunlight all around us.

‘Even though you must be so busy yourself, Victor. Because of my poison—because of me, you’ve had to use up so much of your time.’

‘That’s…..not something you need to apologise for.’

…..If anything, I was the one who couldn’t apologise enough.

However.

I didn’t have the courage to say so.

‘H-.....hey now, I’ve said it before, right? That I would do something about your poison, in exchange for being allowed to stay in the mansion. I still haven’t been able to accomplish that yet. So, I want you to let me do all I can for you.’

That’s why, I deceived myself with my words and emotions.

Saying things like just now.

Words made up of lies and falsehoods—

But, she smiled gently.

And slightly nodded.

‘.....Thank you, Victor. I’m glad you’re here with me.’

Hearing what she said, I froze up a little…..

And then, I quietly smiled back.

‘.....Me too. I’m glad that I met you.’

The smell of flowers.

The feel of the greenery.

The warmth of another person.

May you someday be able to touch this world.

May you come to love it.

May you realise that you are an ordinary girl.

I wished that someday I would be able to tell you all of this for sure.

—I felt that determination within me anew.

Side by side, the two of us looked up at the bright blue sky.

[wildflower-otome]

[Translation] Code: Realize Wintertide Miracles for Nintendo Switch - Saint-Germain Short Story

Source: Code: Realize Wintertide Miracles for Switch Limited Edition Exclusive Booklet

Scan credit: Kou

Episode_05 Saint

……It was the last day of the year.

Steel London.

Although the sun had just set, the streets and town were bustling with many people that were celebrating the new year that was just around the corner.

Although amongst them were likely families and pairs of lovers hoping to greet that moment in a more peaceful way.

Saint-Germain and I were a part of that group. The two of us were inside the mansion in the parlor, quietly reading. However, I couldn't help but become conscious of the new year's drawing closer with each tick tock of the grandfather clock as the needle moved forward.

It seemed that Saint-Germain felt the same way, as he put down the book on astrology he had been reading beside him and smiled.

'Fufu. One can't help but think about it, right?'

'Yeah……I feel like the clock sounds louder than usual today somehow.'

'The end of a whole year— we're about to face a significant turning point. It's to be expected.'

'......You're right.'

We sat before the warm fireplace.

We took turns looking back on the turbulent year that seemed somehow both very long and very short for the both of us—as well as memories of things that had happened since we had met.

'To me, who lived in that mansion in Wales as if I were a doll……time seems to have passed by in an instant since meeting you and the others.'

First, I spoke about the swiftness of time.

'Conversely— to me, living in eternity, where a mere year usually passed by in the blink of an eye……since meeting you, time has felt slower than ever before, each and every moment has become a precious memory.'

On the other hand, Saint-Germain spoke about the slowness of time.

When put into words like this, although the ways we had lived were the exact opposite, perhaps the way in which we experienced the concept of "time" was the same, in that it differed from that of a normal person.

'The two of us have "changed." Surely, that is something to be welcomed.'

'.....Yeah. For sure. It's why this is a special moment for us.'

We both chuckled together.

……And, as we did so, Sisi came to nuzzle up against us. It seemed that it was time for his supper.

'Ah, I'd better go prepare Sisi's dinner now.'

As I murmured those words and stood up, Saint-Germain looked as if he were thinking about something—

'It's New Years after all. Such an important day is to be celebrated, so let us try making dinner for ourselves as well.'

***

And so, we headed for the kitchen.

Saint-Germain had changed into some light clothing that was easy to move around in, and was wearing an apron. 

He had opened a recipe book that Impey had left for us, and was following its instructions.

'Hmm……oh dear— The vegetables ended up in an odd shape.'

He looked down near his hands, and laughed self-deprecatingly. On the chopping board lay unevenly cut pieces of carrot. It seemed as if the usually skilful Saint-Germain had somehow botched the vegetable cutting.

'They'll break down when we put them into the stew so don't worry. But……heheh. It's rare to see you fail at something, Saint-Germain.'

'Haha. I am quite ashamed of myself.'

Regardless of his current embarrassed state, Saint-Germain continued to speak.

'Having tried to do it myself……I realise now just how much Impey exercised his ingenuity in making delicious food each day for us……back when we all lived together.'

Hearing what he said, I gave a small nod of agreement.

There had been a fair few of us in Lupin's gang.

Even just to cook our normal everyday meals, it must have been quite a bit of work.

'Yeah. But even then Impey always looked like he was having fun. He's to be commended.'

'Dear me, even if I was the one that brought it up, I shall be jealous hearing you praise Impey like that, you know?'

'Heheheh. You're pretty refreshing today, Saint-Germain. Messing up cutting the vegetables and getting all jealous.'

'Ah……it has to be because you and I have "changed" after all.'

They were gentle words, said as if reflecting on something.

In the time that had stopped.

In the time that disappeared.

I likely wouldn't be able to pinpoint exactly when the little changes in my beloved had occurred.

And surely……I would not be the only one to be unreasonably happy about that fact.

***

We successfully finished cooking dinner.

Sisi had quickly eaten all his dinner much faster than us, and apparently satisfied, had instantly fallen asleep, slightly snoring as he did so.

'This is delicious……you had the right idea, Saint-Germain. Adding sugar to the sauce gave it a smoother taste.'

'I am glad it is to your liking—although actually, it was something I learned from Impey a long time ago.'

'A long time ago……by that, you mean back when you first spoke to Lupin and Impey and invited them to stay in the mansion……?'

If I recalled correctly, it had all began when Lupin and Impey had been at a pub talking together about their work and plans. Saint-Germain had called out to them and offered his assistance, saying it seemed like fun.

'Yes, it was around that time. Heheheh, how nostalgic. Back then……even though I had been the one to offer my assistance, they also ended up helping me out quite a lot.'

'Helped you out?'

This was also a sentence I hadn't expected to hear. Saint-Germain looked toward the kitchen, and continued to speak.

'Yes. Because as you know…… I don't employ servants to help maintain this mansion.'

Although he had done enough to keep the place clean for appearance's sake, it had still been rather difficult for one person considering the mansion's size.

'In particular, when Impey saw the kitchen was completely unused, he practically screamed. "What on earth is this! What a waste!"'

'Ahaha. I can easily imagine.'

Lupin being Lupin, he took the initiative in helping out with cleaning here and there, saying that it was as thanks for Saint-Germain's assistance.

They were only two more people.

And yet, two more people there were.

'.......After Lupin and Impey came here to stay, I feel as if the time I used to spend meaninglessly changed just a little. And then—'

Saint-Germain quietly, but with a gaze full of love, looked at me.

'—Miss Cardia. Then, I met you.'

'............Yeah.'

I put down the utensils I had been using to eat dinner, and listened carefully to his next words.

'The person I was back then could never have imagined— that our relationship could become one in which we would spend time together like this. No, strictly speaking……I had probably completely erased from my mind the idea that I was an existence that could obtain that sort of possibility.

I……was an immortal monster.

Living time in perpetuity, a lonely traveller unable to stand at the side of another.'

As Saint-Germain looked around the dining hall where Lupin's gang used to eat their meals, as if chasing after their shadows, he murmured in a voice that was full of some kind of emotion— 

'The reason you and others gathered here in this mansion was not a coincidence, but something I planned, it was an inevitability that we would be drawn together.'

'......Saint-Germain, that's……'

Though I tried to interject, Saint-Germain shook his head and cut me off.

'But it was fun. Truly…….to the point that I forgot the position I was supposed to be in. Miss Cardia, I will say it again and again. Meeting you "changed" my world.'

A few moments of silence.

The few emotions within his words.

As if answering them, I continued to speak.

'It's the same for me. I knew I was a monster, but even then, I couldn't help but feel the time that I spent with you and everyone else was……fun. I wanted it to continue on forever.'

In the indigo blue of his opened eyes, there was an overflowing joy—

The truth of Saint-Germain's feelings towards his friends was clearly conveyed.

'Just having all of us together, every single day was a huge uproar. Those days were so fulfilling…...it was a little too difficult to keep my distance.'

'Hehe……it's as you say, Saint-Germain. It was impossible to stay quiet in a group like that one.'

Impey's explosive inventions.

Van Helsing's tough love.

Victor's frantic persuasiveness and at times unusual medicines.

Lupin and Leonhart's two person cat-and-mouse performance.

'Delly and Sisi. And so many others, as well. ……Rather, it would have been stranger to have been able to stay indifferent.'

Each and every one of the memories that spilled out made us smile.

'Ah, the airship race….. The Black Gathering was particularly memorable. Although, of course it was a good memory because everyone worked together in order to win—’

‘But, I think the most memorable thing about it was “that”.’

‘Yes, without a doubt.’

And then we spoke at the same time.

‘—The Helsing Cannon.’

‘……….’

‘Fu-.....’

‘Fufufu-’

Unable to hold back at the words the two of us had spoken simultaneously, we burst into spontaneous laughter.

‘....Well, it cannot be helped. He really was just so intense.’

‘Yeah. Although I think Van might get mad if he heard you say that.'

* * * 

After finishing supper, we continued to endlessly reminisce—.

At last, just a few moments before the time came for the date to change.

We were once again in the common room, spending our time quietly.

The needle of the clock moved forward.

A new year was about to begin.

‘Ah…..it’ll be time soon.’

Saint-Germain picked up the two glasses that were beside him. One he moved toward himself, and the other he handed to me.

And, after opening the wine bottle that had been prepared on the table— he held it out towards me.

‘This is a wine I prepared for you. A toast to celebrate the beginning of a new time. If you would.’

‘.....Yes, gladly.’

A beautiful wine colour was poured out into the glass.

‘If I hadn't met you, I would surely….have become a mere empty existence, one that only looked like a human.’

Quietly spoken words.

And then lastly, Saint-Germain lightly swirled the wine in his glass.

‘For meeting me, being by my side, loving me…..Thank you, Miss Cardia.’

—And then, finally.

In the time that we will spend together in the future, that it was a miracle that we met….I promise here and now, I won’t forget that even for a moment.’

Those were the last words he spoke this year.

With a clunk.

The clock hand conveyed the arrival of the new year, and the grandfather clock rang out as if to inform us of it. Surely all of London was feeling that joy.

‘I won’t forget either. This year, or the next….and even beyond that.’

As he held out his glass to toast.

‘So long as I live, I shall be by your side. Let us continue to walk together at the same speed.’

With slightly reddened cheeks and looking extremely happy— Saint-Germain smiled.

The End

[wildflower-otome]

[Translation] Code Realize: Wintertide Miracles - Finis Short Story

Source: Code Realize Wintertide Miracles Vita/PS4 Booklet Scan Credit: Kou

Finis Beckford Short Story - Big Sister Observation Diary

‘Why not try keeping a diary?’

I was no longer the person I used to be.

And I didn’t know what kind of person to be from now on. Once I had confessed my trifling worries to Professor Frankenstein, what he had recommended to me—

….was that.

According to him, the record of one’s days, one’s memories, became your nature, and in a certain sense, your life. In his own way, he had surely seriously thought about how to solve my troubles and suggested it as one possible solution.

‘............’

As I stared at the simple notebook he had given me as I sat on my bed, I was troubled.

‘...What should I do about this…’

I knew what the word ‘diary’ meant.

My problem was, I could not think of anything at all to write about. This place was a mansion deep in the forest, located in a remote region. What was I supposed to write about, in such a place as this…..

‘At the very least, not something vague, like my routine. If I have a clear subject in mind—’

As I grumbled to myself, I heard a small, unassuming knock at my door.

‘—Finis? Breakfast is ready. Come downstairs before it gets cold, alright?’

A good idea came to mind as I heard the voice from the other side of the door.

That’s it, I didn’t need to force myself to write down things about me.

On the first page, I wrote down the title of my diary.

— “Today’s Big Sister”

*

A certain day on a certain month. 8AM.

The breakfast food my sister had made was laid out on the table in the dining room. When I asked her, apparently it was food made in the style of a foreign country. Sometimes my big sister challenged herself with making such unusual types of food.

‘.....Big sister, it’s only the fish on your plate that looks way too burnt. You don’t need to be considerate in such a weird way. C’mon, if we divide the one that’s cooked properly in half….’

‘No, it’s fine. I made it this way because this is how I wanted to eat it.’

‘You should just make normal food that’s easy to make…..though, even then there are times you mess up and can’t make it turn out right, to put it bluntly, aren’t you being reckless?’

‘I-I think one shouldn’t close oneself off from an opportunity to learn.’

Somehow, it didn’t seem as if she intended on giving up.

What could be motivating her to go to such lengths…..?

*

Same Day, 10AM

When I returned to the living room after having finished sweeping and cleaning the garden area my sister was nowhere to be seen. Wonder if she’s taking a day nap…..while thinking this, as I returned to my room on the second floor in order to take a break myself-

The window in my room—

There was already someone there, their body half-hanging out of it, about to fall.

‘Wait a sec-.....! Sister-!?’

‘Ah, F-Finis! I’d be happy if you wouldn’t mind helping me…..’

I grabbed hold of her clothes and pulled as hard as I could.

Ah, the difference in our heights I was so resentful of.

But even so, I kept holding my ground— and at last, almost getting tangled up on the floor together, I pulled her up.

‘What the hell were you doing….!? No way you’re gonna tell me you’ve gotten suicidal all of a sudden!?’

‘S-Sorry. I saw some dirt on the window when I was looking at it from the outside, so I was trying to clean it….’

‘....Haah. Well, at least nothing serious happened.’

Seeing her look so down and apologetic made it difficult for me to criticise her any further. I told myself that it wasn’t as if my sister’s clumsiness was anything new.

*

…..From here on, it seems as if I could fill an entire book if I wrote everything down in detail, so I shall note down everything that happened to my sister today as succinctly as possible.

Same Day. 3PM

‘I already told you. I came here with my brother today, so I can’t show you the way there myself directly. Ah, but when he does come back, I might be able to consider-’

‘Ah sheesh, what are you doing, big sister….!!’

While we were out shopping in town.

I grabbed the hand of my sister who had become surrounded by a group of guys the moment I took my eyes off her and left.

Same Day.  4PM

‘This tea is at a really reasonable price….Eh? This one tastes better? But the price is a bit….it’s delicious enough that it’s worth it? Cheaper in a set…..? I-I see….This might be a good deal then….’

‘Aaaah….give me a break, Sis!!’

It was the same when we went downtown.

Having fallen for their obvious high pressure sales tactics, she still seemed reluctant to leave as I grabbed her hand and took her out of the store.

*

—Same day. Midnight.

‘Hmm…..feels like I’ve done nothing but fill this book up with harsh things about Sis….’

At the same time as the date changed.

Having finished summarizing the first day of my diary at my desk, I sighed.

As I looked at it again, I got a headache thinking of my sister’s complete carelessness.

She should have been a fundamentally intelligent person, so then why was it all coming to nothing…..I thought of many different things and became depressed.

‘Maybe I’ll go and drink some water…..’

In consideration of my sister who might be sleeping, I headed for the kitchen as quietly as possible. However….once I saw the light leaking from there, I realised the person I had been being considerate about was there, not sleeping.

I softly tried opening the door.

My sister was quietly muttering something while opening a notebook that was a size larger than my own. Her expression looked so serious, it felt a little difficult to call out to her—that I unintentionally ended up staying where I was.

‘—It didn’t seem as if today’s breakfast was to his liking. Next time, should I try making some French home cooking….? I wonder if Finis would prefer food made using sweet ingredients more….’

—Startled at hearing my own name, I caught my breath.

‘That’s it. He helped me out a lot today….I’ll bake some muffins. I did almost fall, but I was able to clean his window, just barely. I wonder if the view from Finis’ room is better now….But, I am sorry about almost buying too much tea. Even if it was the brand Finis likes—’

That was all I heard of her soliloquy.

‘...............’

I quietly moved away from the door.

I returned to my room as soundlessly as possible.

‘....What is wrong with her? All the things she thinks about and does, they’re all for me.’

I took the diary I had thoughtlessly put down, and opened it to the page where I had written down today’s events.

“I’m concerned about what will happen in the future if my sister doesn’t become a bit more reliable—”

To continue what I had written on the last page, I took out my pen and added one more line.

“Well….I suppose she’s important to me because she’s like that. To make up for it, I can just be the reliable one in her place!’

[thewild--flower]

[Translation] Code: Realize Future Blessings Short Story - Victor Frankenstein

Source: Code:Realize Future Blessings Stella Set Exclusive Booklet

Scan credit: Kou

Summary: Victor falls asleep after spending all night researching only to make a startling discovery.

Page 09     Victor Frankenstein

Midnight.

'Now then, today I think I'd like to do a bit more research on anesthetics. After all, if I can utilize them effectively, we can completely render our enemies powerless…..'

2am.

'Hm….. as expected, it really is too strong….. At the very least, I have to adjust the concentration so that there are no after-effects…..'

4am.

'Huaaah…..uff….. Guess we can't be using something this volatile in actual combat, huh. Which means, I need to think about whether to change the method of application or investigate other uses…..

6am.

'.....Ugh…..so…..sleepy…..! B-but….. just a little longer, I feel like I'm almost onto some…..thing…..'

Fighting against the wave of drowsiness that hit me, I took off my glasses and massaged my eyes. Taking a quick glance at my watch, I realized it was already around the time when it wouldn't be unusual for the others to be up and about. I, Victor Frankenstein, who had been sitting down working since the night before, collapsed forward onto my desk with a thud and breathed a deep sigh.

'Oh no….. Even though I know I shouldn't, I've pulled another all-nighter…..'

Completely forgetting about the time when concentrating on research was a bad habit of mine ever since my Royal Society days. With a light sigh, I pressed my cheek closer against the desk and closed my eyes.

'Ahh….. it's so….. nice and cool…..'

I knew that I really should just go to bed, but unfortunately, right now I just couldn't quite work up the energy….. s-since it had come to this, there was no helping it. A moment. Just for a moment—.

I'll take a quick nap here at my desk.

5 minutes. No, 10 minutes. Once I'd taken a quick nap for just 10 minutes….I'd get changed…..

And then………… get….. into….. bed…..

…..

…………

———————.

' ——————Huh!?'

Waking up in a panic, I thrust aside the blanket that had been covering me.

The sun was high up in the sky.

That alone told me that my plan to nap 'just for a moment' was completely in tatters.

'Aaaah…..! I really am…..! Sigh….. 

I've really done it now….. And it was only meant to be 5 minutes…..'

Completely exhausted, I got out of bed and put my hand to the buttons on my pyjamas.

….. At that moment, a feeling of uneasiness I couldn't quite shake brought me to a standstill.

'Huh? Come to think of it, when did I change into my pyjamas…..?'

And now that I was at it, I didn't have any memory of getting into bed either.

Still puzzled, I stretched out my hand to put on my glasses.

On the table, together with my familiar looking glasses….. a note written on a single piece of paper had been left, wedged in between them.

The contents of the note read:

'To Victor. When you go to sleep, make sure it's in a proper bed.'

'.....Um….'

Little by little my brain was starting to return to its normal operating capacity. 

At the same time, memories that I was probably happier not recalling, gradually began to trickle into my mind.

'Victor. Wake up, Victor.'

'.....Mnnn…..just…. five more minutes…. '

'If you're really tired, it's OK to sleep. But you gotta get changed and get into bed first.'

'..........Mnn~.....'

'Come on, Victor. Can you get changed?'

'.....Uuh…..I can't…..'

In other words.

After I had fallen asleep face-down at my desk, Cardia had—

'PS. I've put the clothes you were wearing out for washing. —Cardia.'

'?!'

In a total panic, I changed out of my pyjamas and threw on my coat.

And then, just like that, I dashed out of my room at top-speed.

The hallway. Not there.

The parlour. Not there.

Her room. Not there…..!

'C-Cardia!?'

Out of breath, I finally found her in the dining room. 

There she was, gathering the dishes from the table. At the sound of my voice she slowly turned around.

'Ah….. Victor.'

'U-Um, that is…..About what occurred last night…..?'

'Sorry Victor. When I'm done here, I've got to go do the laundry with Saint-Germain.'

Her eyes had been completely turned away from me.

Beginning to walk off as if to avoid me, who had started speaking formally for some reason, Cardia spoke quietly.

'.............But, I just think it's wrong to ask a girl to "Take them off for me?"'

'Wh-whaaaaat!? What exactly did I say when I was half-asleep!? No, what exactly did I do—!?'

I desperately chased after Cardia, as she rapidly walked away at a brisk pace.

[thewild--flower]

[Translation] Code: Realize Wintertide Miracles for Nintendo Switch - Victor Frankenstein Short Story

Source: Code: Realize Wintertide Miracles for Switch Limited Edition Exclusive Booklet

Scan credit: Kou

Summary: Victor and Cardia are out shopping when it starts to snow.

episode_03 Fran

That day, the wind had grown bitterly cold since noon.

‘I think that’s it.’

‘Yep, we got everything on the list.’

Victor and I were in the middle of shopping for necessities for the clinic.

Things like bandages, and ingredients for medicine.

As he and I left the store after finishing buying everything we had been after—.

‘..........U-’

‘Uwah…..!’

A piercingly icy wind blew through us.

Even with my coat on, it was so cold I couldn’t help but shiver.

‘Cardia, are you alright? If you’re cold, you can use me as a windbreak.’

‘Thank you, Victor. I’m fine though. I’m pretty confident in my physical condition.’

‘Haha, is that so. But—’

As he spoke, my lover Victor gently put his arm around my waist and pulled me closer, as if to shield me from the wind.

‘Still, I really couldn’t stand it if you were to get sick— And not just that. I just wanted a reason for us to be touching like this. We had a lot of places to get to today…..and we didn’t really have the time to hold hands either, you know?’

‘....................’

‘..... H-huh? Did I say something weird?’

Seeing Victor so flustered, I smiled and said yes.

‘I was just a little surprised. Somehow, you’ve gotten pretty good at sweet talking me these days.’

‘S-sweet talk.....!?’ U-um- No, that's not—’

‘Not what you meant?’

‘..............No, I guess I can’t quite say that it wasn't.’

'Haha, the way you confess so honestly hasn't changed at all.'

'A-ahaha….. I wonder if that's something to be happy about.'

'It is. Being so genuine and easily embarrassed is what I love about you, Victor.'

When I gave him my truthful response, Victor smiled as if happy, although his cheeks were flushed red.

'......Thank you. The way you're so straightforward in telling me how you feel…… is what I love about you too.'

*    *    *

As Victor had wished, we walked the road home nestled closely together.

‘Victor, what do you want for dinner tonight?’

‘Hm…..let me think. It’s pretty cold these days, so something warm would be nice. 

…..Although, that said, I’ve only been making such vague requests these days. I should be saying something more specific.’

‘It’s true that it’s cold, so wanting to have something warm is only natural I think.’

Making such idle talk, we slowly kept on walking.

'But recently we've been making nothing but soup and stew…… Might be time to up our repertoire.'

'You're right, I'll try and think about what we can do instead. It's just……there's only so many ingredients we're able to get this time of year.'

'Yeah. Think we'll have to do some research first.'

I thought that it would be a good idea to contact Impey soon and ask him for a good arrangement of recipes. And as I was considering that —.

I felt a sudden chill.

'......?!'

Something cold had fallen onto the tip of my nose.

'......? Cardia?'

'What is this? It’s cold……'

As I tried touching it, wondering what it was, it seemed to be a drop of water.

Thinking it must be raining, I instinctively looked up at the sky—.

'Ah……'

'Oh……It's snow. I see. It's already that time of year.'

And just like that, lightly falling from the sky, snow began to accumulate on the road.

Perhaps the people in the area around us had begun to notice, as they hurriedly began to head home after closing up their storefronts.

'We should start to head home too before it really starts snowing, Cardia.'

'Yeah, it would be bad if all the stuff we spent so much time buying got wet.'

Although we were a bit reluctant, we let go of each other and began to walk faster as well.

However…… perhaps because everyone else had started for home all at once too, we ended up being held up by the crowd for a while.

Even if we were to try and force our way through, we might end up getting separated, so we decided to wait a moment somewhere undercover that was sheltered from the wind.

—I wondered how much snow would fall. Vaguely thinking that in the back of my mind, I kept looking outside until—

'............?'

Suddenly something 'mysterious' entered my view. I reflexively held out my gloved hands to catch the falling snow.

And, as I stared at it to take a closer look-

Inside the small bits of snow, there was something beautiful— 

Something that looked like it was made of glass was mixed in.

'......! Victor, look. This snow droplet is so pretty!'

Along with my excitement, I showed the lovely thing that rested atop my gloves to Victor, who was standing beside me.

At first he looked as if he didn't quite understand what he was supposed to be looking at, but after he narrowed his eyes and took a longer look……he smiled as if satisfied.

'Cardia, that's a 'snowflake' you've got there.'

'A snow……flake?'

'The exact principle behind it isn't yet completely clear, but…… depending on factors like the composition of the air at the time that it begins to fall, and the effects of the temperature, I've heard that on rare occasions droplets of snow will form into odd shapes like this one. Basically, it seems that most take on a hexagonal shape.'

'So that's what it is……'

Having heard his explanation, I looked more closely at the snowflake once again……and it was just as Victor had said, a hexagonal shape.

Even then—

The more I looked at it, the more fascinated with it I became.

Perhaps because he had noticed me staring at it so closely as if I was devouring it, Victor smiled as he started speaking.

'Do you like it?'

I quietly nodded my head.

'It's like a gemstone.'

The light it gave off was similar to the Horologium but— it was clearer, and more beautiful.

'......Victor, nature really is amazing. To think it can make something so lovely.'

'You're right. It's……been a while since I've taken the time to look at the snow. If you hadn't told me, I probably wouldn't have noticed the snowflakes either.'

As if to emulate me, he stretched out his hands as well as if to scoop up the snow that was falling incessantly once more.

But unfortunately, another beautifully shaped crystal didn't appear—.

'Hmm-......Guess it's not so easy.'

'If I can find another next time, I'll bring it to you, Victor.'

'Haha, I'll be looking forward to it.'

As we were talking, the snowflake I held in my gloves in the end— disappeared.

'......I suppose as long as it's made of snow, it'll end up melting after all.'

'There's not much we can do about it. —Ah, the crowd's mostly gone now. Cardia, let's go.'

Though it was only to be expected.

The reality that something so beautiful would always end up quickly disappearing.

To me, it was somehow……lonely.

*  *  *

—A few days after my encounter with that tiny gemstone of nature.

A small amount of snow was falling on the town of London once more.

Having confirmed that it was indeed snowing again that morning, I went outside the clinic to look for snowflakes when I found a moment of spare time but—.

'............I can't see any.'

I wasn't able to find one that was as beautiful as the one from before.

The ones that I did find were all partially broken down.

And, at the moment my shoulders slumped slightly in disappointment-

'—Cardia! I thought you might be outside.'

'Victor.'

Wrapped in his winter coat, Victor ran up to where I was standing.

'I know that you're interested in snowflakes, but make sure you're properly warm enough for going outside, alright? Here, I brought you your muffler……just hold still there for a moment.'

'! How did you know I was looking for snowflakes—'

'Of course I'd know at least a little bit about what the one I love is thinking.'

Smiling at me as I became embarrassed despite myself, Victor wrapped the muffler around me with great care.

'But, I just can't seem to find any pretty ones somehow.'

'Well now……I guess that's nature for you. But—'

As he spoke, Victor put a hand into his coat pocket.

'Cardia, would you hold out your hand for me? There's something I want to give you.'

'............?'

As I held out my hand as Victor had asked-

Victor placed the small box he had taken out from his coat in the palm of my hand.

'......Try opening it.'

Encouraged by Victor, though I tilted my head in puzzlement, I opened the lid.

Inside there was something transparent, that looked like a gemstone—.

'It's a snowflake—.......!'

'—Or rather, they're earrings I made using them as a motif. I know how much you took a fancy to the one that we saw not so long ago. I thought I might be able to get you some kind of present with that as a model, so I borrowed the Royal Society's facilities— and made these in secret.'

'Made……? Victor, you made these yourself!?'

I was already surprised at how exquisitely they were crafted, let alone that Victor had been the one to make them.

I couldn't help but look back and forth between the earrings and Victor.

'Y-yeah. At first I had a look at a few at the stores. But I wasn't able to find any good designs……That being the case, I thought I might be able to make nicer ones myself. If it's alright with you…… I'd like you to accept them.'

Of course, I said.

Cheeks reddened with happiness, I felt my face stretch into a smile so wide even I knew I must look a little foolish.

'Thank you. I'll treasure them. Snowflakes like these won't melt, and I'll be able to look at them forever. As expected…….you really are amazing, Victor. You can even create nature's gemstones.'

I took the earrings out from the small box.

As if I were touching real snow.

So that I wouldn't break them, wouldn't melt them.

Carefully, and cautiously.

'.......Victor, I'd like you to put these on me right away.'

'It'd be my pleasure.'

Victor took the earrings from me, then lifted the hair up away from around my ears.

His fingertips as he touched them were slightly cold.

But it was almost as if—

Actual snowflakes themselves now rested in my ears.

That was the kind of lovely delusion I had.

Because I didn't have a mirror, I wasn't sure if they suited me or not but……the look in Victor's gentle eyes as he gazed at me was surely all the answer I needed.

'......Looks like they were well worth the effort of making.'

And smiling, he continued speaking.

'You look lovely, Cardia. The transparent colour of the snow— the way it's so pure and gentle……it suits you perfectly.'

Victor brought his lips closer to kiss my ear, that now sparkled like the snow—.

The End

[thewild--flower]

[Translation] Code: Realize Bouquet of Rainbows Short Story - Saint-Germain

Source: Code: Realize Bouquet of Rainbows Stella Exclusive Booklet

Scan credit: Kou

Summary: Saint-Germain, Cardia and Sisi enjoy a peaceful afternoon in the courtyard until he asks her a surprising question.

'I Can Touch You' - Saint-Germain

On a certain afternoon when the tranquil sound of birds chirping from somewhere could be heard.

As I enjoyed a cup of tea at the table in the courtyard, I fondly watched over the scene before me.

'Now then Sisi. One more time.'

'Woof woof.'

'.....Go get it!'

Aiming for the stick that Miss Cardia threw, Sisi dashed forward enthusiastically.

Before the stick could fall to the ground as it curved in a beautiful U-shaped arc, he took a magnificently large jump into the air. Sisi landed elegantly as he simultaneously caught the stick. And then, he ran back at full speed to Miss Cardia as she held out her hands—.

'Great job, well done, well done.'

As Sisi snuggled up against her, Miss Cardia leisurely stroked his fur.

'.....How peaceful…..'

How luxurious it was, to enjoy the fragrance of some fine black tea, feeling relaxed while watching over Cardia and Sisi's antics.

That's right, what a peaceful time this was. Almost to the point I could forget about the sense of deadlock our group had sunk into–.

'.....Though, I wonder if letting down one's guard too much will be a problem.'

Smiling wryly, I put the teacup to my lips to take another sip.

—Truth be told.

Though of course there had been some changes, in matters involving Miss Cardia, there had not been many new developments currently.

On the subject of her father, and also on the problem of the poison within her body.

Regarding her poison, though poison-resistant clothing and everyday items had been prepared so that she would not experience any inconvenience, they were but a stop gap measure at best.

As I had thought, in order to grant her wish to touch other people and things, a more fundamental solution was required after all.

…..However, whether such a method existed was the issue.

'For myself as well, I would be quite pleased if there was.'

Though considering my current situation, whether I was really in a position to think such a thing was another matter entirely—.

'Saint-Germain, Sisi's headed your way.'

'.........Oh?'

'Bark, woof woof!'

Realising she had been calling me, I lifted my head and there he was. Sisi had jumped up onto my lap.

'My my, you're full of energy today, Sisi.'

They say that an animal's intuition is sharper than that of a human's, so perhaps he had picked up on my gloomy thoughts.

While I patted him as he pushed his nose towards my face, he barked as if enjoying the attention.

'Sorry, Saint-Germain. Sisi suddenly ran off.'

'Not at all, if he wishes to play, then I welcome it. After all, when he first arrived at the mansion, he never really tried to approach any of us before…..'

He really had changed.

After I placed Sisi back down on the ground, I poured some tea and held it out to the girl who had sat down.

'Thank you, Saint-Germain…..it's delicious, as always.'

'I am honoured, my lady.'

As I returned her thanks, I quietly surveyed her.

Perhaps because she had been running about with Sisi, her cheeks were flushed, tinged with a healthy looking red.

Without a doubt, if I were to touch them directly, they would certainly be soft to the touch.

Though of course, it was unlikely she would allow such an action—.

'....I was a bit jealous of you just now.'

'Just now….?'

'Having Sisi lick your cheek like that.'

'That is…..in other words, you wish you could touch him directly?'

'.....Yes. Although I know that it's impossible.'

The two of us looked down at Sisi who had started to fall asleep curled up at our feet.

—I want to touch you, I want to feel your warmth.

As wishes went, it was but a modest one, however until now it was likely one that felt too far out of reach.

That's why she had lived her life so that she would not think about or desire it, repressing her true feelings all the while.

—But, now.

'.....Hehe…..'

'.....Was that something to be laughed about just now?'

'Pardon me. I am just simply happy that you've become able to voice such a wish.'

The girl who did not possess anything other than a body of poison, now had wishes all of her own. That was a wonderful thing.

…..But, given the current reality, it was still a difficult situation.

The modest wish that she held, likely for the first time in her life.

If she were to meet her end with not even that simple wish being granted…..

That would truly be sad.

'If—'

That had to have been why.

I ended up saying what I did next.

'If you were actually able to touch someone right now, what would you do?'

'Right now….?'

Her large eyes looked at me intently.

She was trying to grasp exactly what I meant by those words.

'That is…..you're not talking about in the future, when I'm able to touch someone?'

'Correct. I'm talking about right here, and now.'

Narrowing my eyes, I responded with a smile.

A smile that was a mask, with my feelings and true intentions suppressed beneath.

'For example, say that right now there was someone very, very strong….. Even if you were to touch them, they would be able to bear it and not die.'

'..........'

'If there was such a person, what would you do?'

She did not answer immediately.

From her point of view, what I said must have been very out of the blue.

That was only to be expected. Even I didn't quite understand the reason I had brought the topic up myself.

'.....I…..'

…..Perhaps I had crossed the line with this question after all.

Regretting that I had said anything at all, as I was about to open my mouth to take it back, she continued her sentence.

' —Of course I would like to know the warmth of another person. But I wouldn't want to hurt anyone to do so. I….. would rather stay poisonous than do that.'

' ———'

Hers was an answer so decisive, that I caught my breath.

It couldn't quite be said that this was not a show of courage.

But more than that, she clearly possessed a strong will.

…..The emotion that briefly flared in my heart just now, was surely a feeling of guilt for having tried to test her like this.

Or maybe it was—.

'I apologise, my joke went a little too far.'

What I said in the end were only evasive words, that didn't match the seriousness of her answer.

'—Now then, let's end our talk here. We should continue with our teatime. I actually have some special tea leaves and snacks that I've been saving.'

Telling her that I would go and prepare them now so she should wait there, I left my seat and headed in toward the mansion—.

' —If it would hurt another, she would rather stay poisonous….. is that so?'

She really was kind.

So much so that it was a mystery that she was called a monster.

That's why I thought all the more.

That it would really be too pitiful if this kind girl died without ever knowing the warmth of another.

'That's right. That is why, when it is time for you to meet your end—'

I would take your hand.

Even if I were to become hideously burnt, and it caused me pain.

Because surely that would be the least I could do to atone.

[thewild--flower]

[Translation] Code: Realize Future Blessings Short Story - Saint-Germain

Source: Code:Realize Future Blessings Stella Set Exclusive Booklet

Scan credit: Kou

Summary: Unable to sleep, Cardia pays Saint-Germain a visit in his room.

Page 17      Saint-Germain

'—Saint-Germain. Could I come in?'

It was around the time when one day turned into the next when I heard those words, accompanied by the sound of a knock.

This was usually when I— Saint-Germain, enjoyed some tea and leisurely reading after having returned to my room for the evening.

'My my, this late at night, has something happened?'

I judged this was about the time she normally went to sleep.

Having entered my room, Cardia was standing there in her nightgown holding a pillow, eyes cast downwards. Hm….. I wonder what it could be? It did seem rather as if she was thinking something over—

However, if this had been a certain engineer and not myself, he would undoubtedly have said something like, 'A confession of love? Or maybe—' with a heart pounding in expectation.

 'For the time being, why not try sitting down here? I'll prepare something warm for you to drink…..'

'Alright…..'

It was lucky I had just been in the middle of enjoying my night tea. I quickly fetched her a cup and poured some in. The beautiful amber-coloured herbal tea that filled the cup gave off a pleasant aroma.

She had remained completely silent while I had prepared the tea but….. as she put her lips to the cup to drink, she seemed to calm down.

A little while after that, she at last opened her mouth to speak, as if it was about something difficult.

'If I may ask again, has something happened?'

'.....That is, no matter how hard I tried, I just couldn't sleep at all tonight.'

'My. Are the pillows and bedding not suitable for your skin? If I recall, they should all have been completely poison-proofed…..'

'N-no, it's not that.'

Should I tell him or not—

A hesitating look that seemed to convey such a thought crossed her face for a moment.

Looking somewhat embarrassed, Cardia at last got the words out in a voice that trailed off as she spoke.

'.....I had a scary dream, and now I can't sleep…..'

'............'

'............'

'Heheh.'

'Wh-why are you laughing…..!?'

'Ah, no. My apologies. It was just such a cute thing to be worried about.'

At such a childlike problem, I couldn't help but truly smile. But….. if I really thought about it, something like this was only to be expected.

Although her appearance was that of a lovely young lady, the life she had lived had been a lamentably warped one. But just when one thought she did not understand things that were obvious to a normal person, at times she did display a more adult-like side as well.

There may be those who would say that was part of her charm however…..

Whatever the case, I first had to resolve her adorable worry, so I opened my mouth to speak.

'Well now….. the more you try to push yourself to sleep, the more difficult it becomes. When you can't sleep, why not try doing something else for a change of pace?'

'.....Such as?'

'In my case, I read books or go out for walks on moonlit nights…. I also sometimes add brandy to my tea…..heheh. Although it may be a bit too soon for you to be having alcohol.'

'Oh…..well, more than that, I'm surprised there are times when you can't sleep as well. That's really unexpected.'

'Heheheh, I may be an eccentric….. but even I have times when I worry and need time to think like any ordinary person, you know? …..Ah, that's right. So then, about the scary dream you had— specifically speaking, what kind of dream was it? If it’s alright with you, I would like you to tell me about it…..'

The moment she heard my words, Cardia's eyebrows furrowed as if she was in pain. As I was about to say that there was no need to force herself to remember, I stopped upon hearing her next short sentence.

'I dreamt that everyone disappeared.'

'............What?'

'I don't know about the details. Just, when I woke up, many years, many decades had passed…..all the people around me that had known me were no longer there…..and I was the only one left—  it was that kind of sad dream.'

'............'

…..They say that dreams are a reconstruction of real memories. If you were to look at it that way, it could be surmised that your dream arose from anxiety caused by the disappearance of your father, Isaac. If I took the time to explain it to her here with that logical approach, she would likely regain her composure and I could settle things that way, however—

'............'

But, rather than doing that, thinking that all I wanted to do was to wipe the sorrow from her face as soon as possible, I took a deep breath—

'Cardia.'

I gently took her small hands into mine.

Almost like a knight pledging loyalty, I knelt at her side as she sat—

‘I remembered that there’s one more method to cure sleeplessness.’

‘.....And that would be?’

‘Shall we….. sleep together?’

As I smiled, her eyes widened.

While enjoying the change in her expression, I continued so as not to invite misunderstanding.

’Although, of course, we won’t be sleeping in the same bed? I’ll sleep on the sofa here….. so Cardia, please use the bed.’

‘B-but this is your room, Saint-Germain….’

‘Worry not. I can easily sleep on the sofa….. and as a gentleman, I could not make a lady sleep on a sofa while I used the bed.’

I looked at her with a gaze that forbade further discussion.

‘............Alright, I understand. Then please, let's do so.’

Though she may have been more than a little hesitant about the prospect….. Perhaps the anxiety from her bad dream won out, as in the end she slightly nodded her head in assent.

‘Heheh, please, make yourself comfortable. This may be the least I can do but….. I’m happy if it will help you.’

‘Saint-Germain, you really are very kind.’

‘My, my. Heheheh, I am a man after all. Perhaps I just want to look good in front of you?’

‘Heheh, even so, I’m happy. Thank you, Saint-Germain.’

Smiling faintly at each other, we continued to talk without stopping until right before she fell asleep. Somehow or other, it seemed as if her worries had…. bit by bit, slowly faded away.

Tonight, until she falls asleep, let me continue to be reflected in her eyes.

Tomorrow morning when she wakes up, let me be the first thing she sees when she opens them again.

….. Before she realized it, everyone had disappeared.

She had dreamed such a sorrowful dream.

I prayed that she would never do so again—.