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knightsofroundiv"Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations ~Congratulations for Faust~" 1:
(location: Faust's room)
Akira: Faust, I'm sorry for suddenly coming by.
Faust: I don't mind, but... Is there something bothering you?
Akira: No, I came here to extend an invitation to you. If it's alright with you, will you do the "Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations" with me?
Faust: "Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations"...? What is that?
Akira: It seems to be a secret ritual that is known among the Sage's Wizards. When you do the ritual, supposedly the Sage and the Sage's Wizard's bond will get deeper.
On top of that, your magical power and your luck with money gets a boost, the spirits will bless you with good fortune, you'll become healthy; it's simple and a good bargain and gives you nothing but good things!
... Or, that's what Snow and White said. Apparently, that was written in an old document that they found recently.
Faust: ...... That sounds like a pretty suspect ritual.
Akira: I don't know the extent of the ritual's effects, but something wonderful happened to Mitile and Bradley, who both did the ritual.
That's why I thought that I would like to do it with you as well, Faust. Of course, as long as it isn't any trouble...
Faust let out a small sigh, like he was exasperated. I couldn't help my wry smile at his reaction, which was exactly what I'd been expecting.
Faust: ... So, what am I supposed to do?
Even while being suspicious of the ritual, it looks like he'll still go along with it. That makes me so happy that my voice can't help but get brighter.
Akira: Other wizards will help me with the preparations for the ritual. And so, will you give me one of your days off around your birthday?
Faust: Around my birthday?
Akira: Apparently, if you perform the ritual around a period when blessings are easy to gather... basically, in the vicinity of one's birthday, and if you perform it in a place connected to that wizard, that will give the results of the ritual the highest boost.
Faust: It sounds shadier the more I hear about it, but alright, I guess I understand...
Akira: Ahaha...
"Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations ~Congratulations for Faust~" 2:
(location: Shylock's bar)
Akira: Everyone, thank you very much for coming today.
I had called three wizards to the bar. Shylock, Heathcliff, and Lennox.
Lennox: I heard that there is something you would like to discuss with us.
Akira: Yes. Since it will be Faust's birthday soon, in order to celebrate it, I plan on conducting a certain ritual with Faust.
The necessary things for the ritual are a special outfit and congratulatory words from the Sage and three people with a connection to that person.
Akira: Snow and White will be the ones to prepare the outfit, so...
Shylock: So, we will be preparing congratulatory words?
Akira: Yes, that's right. It seems like Shylock talks to Faust a lot as a fellow teacher, and Heath looks up to Faust as his teacher, so...
And I think Lennox has known Faust the longest.
Shylock: It makes me happy to hear that you think that way.
Lennox: Yes, it is an honor.
Heathcliff: If it's okay that it's me, then I'd love to. I'm happy that you chose me for such a wonderful occasion.
But, where should I begin...?
Lennox: Words for Master Faust...
Heathcliff & Lennox: ......
Maybe it's because they're lost in thought, but the both of them have gone silent with serious expressions on their faces.
Akira: U-Umm, it's troubling when you're told so suddenly, right?
Shylock: Hehe. I understand their feelings of getting lost in thought. While I am also the same, I'm sure these two in particular have many congratulatory words they would like to tell him.
Heathcliff: I-I'm sorry. I had no idea what words I should use to convey my feelings...
After all, ever since I met Master Faust at the Magic Manor, there's been so many things he's helped me with.
Lennox: I heard that you didn't have much luck with your mentor, and that you had many difficulties when you first came here.
Master Faust is a sincere person with much compassion, so I'm sure he couldn't just leave the situation as is.
Heathcliff: Yes... And that's exactly why I would like to take this occasion to properly say my thanks to Master Faust.
Shylock smiled as he watched the two of them interact.
Shylock: I also quite like his seriousness and awkward kindness.
When he was here at the bar the other day, he casually called out to Chloe, who was troubled over the design for his new clothes...
Lennox: Oh, that time. I was present as well, so I also remember that.
After being shown the design sketch, Master Faust nonchalantly praised Chloe and expressed his opinions, attempting to help him even while saying that he doesn't know much about clothes.
Heathcliff: That's very like Master Faust... To think about it and consider it with you.
Lennox: Yeah. Chloe was grateful, too. He was excited and said that he would make clothes for Master Faust as thanks...
Shylock: Yes, that's right. He brought out many cloths with magic, and as Chloe was saying this would look good or that would be good and fastening the cloths on, Faust wound up cocooned in cloth.
Heathcliff: What...?!
Akira: (Somehow, it looks like the Faust Talk has gotten pretty lively...)
It looks like it'll take a little more time to receive their congratulatory words. Even while thinking that, I listened to their conversation with pleasant feelings.
"Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulation ~Congratulations for Faust~" 3:
(location: Valley of Storms)
Some days later, Faust and I went to the Valley of Storms.
A place that is rich in nature and you can see many stars is even better suited for the ritual, it seems.
Faust is already clothed in the outfit for the ritual. The virtuous and dignified atmosphere of the forest at night naturally makes me straighten up my posture.
Faust: ... It seems like the presences of the spirits have gathered. Is it alright to do it around here?
Akira: Yes. Then, I shall begin the ritual. Faust, please close your eyes.
Faust: ......
I hover my hand over his chest. I say the congratulatory words I was entrusted with by the other three as if I were chanting them.
Akira: First, words from Shylock.
"I find how composed you are likeable, but I think the smile that appears when you're a bit drunk is wonderful as well."
Next, from Heathcliff...
"I'm always helped by your kindness, Master Faust. I will do my best so that I can assist you one day."
And then, Lennox...
"Master Faust. May today, and not just today but every day, be a day of happiness in your eyes."
And lastly, from me...
Faust. I'm grateful from the bottom of my heart that you're one of the Sage's Wizards. Happy birthday.
*ring*
After saying all of the congratulatory words, I feel something warm overflow from deep within my chest. I have a feeling that the sensation also reached Faust.
Akira: ... How was it?
When I call out to him, Faust lifts his eyelids. He takes a slow blink as if he's confirming something.
Faust: ... Honestly, I don't really know. But, their words and yours... they made me happy.
Akira: Thank goodness... Heath and Lennox had quite a bit of trouble.
They said that they can't be as thoughtful with words as Shylock is, so because of that, they really put their feelings into conveying their thoughts.
Faust: Haha. That sounds like them.
*meow*
Faust: ... Did you hear a cat just meow?
Suddenly, a white cat and a black cat suddenly appear at our feet.
Akira: Huh? Where did you two...
The two cats walked a bit and then turned back in our direction, meowing at us.
*meow*
Faust: Are they saying to follow them...?
We follow after them as if we're being guided. And upon doing that, a single tree is there to greet us.
*tree leaves rustling*
Faust: ... The elder tree...?
Akira: Wow, it's beautiful...
I couldn't help but be captivated. There are so many flowers in full bloom that the tree itself looks like white haze.
Faust: I can't believe that there are so many flowers blooming during this time period...
I can only think that something has influenced the spirits of this forest, but... Don't tell me it was that ritual we just did?
*wind blows*
Suddenly, a strong wind gusts by. The elder flowers are blown upward, and all at once, they come dancing down. As if a blizzard were happening, our surroundings are dyed in white.
Faust: ... Heh, haha.
Faust glanced my way, and suddenly started laughing.
Faust: You look terrible, you know.
There's a bunch of flowers stuck to your head, and you look like a dog that rolled around in the snow.
Akira: Whaa? Really...?!
I scramble to basically toss my hair and throw off the flowers. While still chuckling to himself and with a smile leftover on the corner of his mouth, Faust chants his incantation.
Faust: "Satillqunart Mullcreed."
*ding*
Two baskets appear in Faust's hands. He hands one of them to me.
Faust: Will you help me pick some flowers? If there's this many, I'll be able to make a lot of syrup.
I'll be able to give back to those three who gave me their congratulations.
The elder flowers that fluttered into the air slowly fall down from the sky at a gentle speed.
Beyond this white flower shower that is like a congratulations, I see a gentle smile.
Akira: Yes, let's gather a basketful!
I honestly don't know if there's been an effect like what's written in that document.
But I hope that to Faust, today in particular will be something as gentle and pleasant as these flowers are.
While hoping that, I reach my hand out toward the elder flowers.
Card Episode "Humble Feelings of Congratulation":
(location: fountain)
Akira: Faust, it sounds like the three who gave you your congratulatory words celebrated your birthday as well.
Faust: So you've already heard about that...
Akira: I heard about it from Shylock. I was absent since I was on a mission, so I couldn't participate. What kind of celebration was it?
Faust: I was locked away in my room like usual on my birthday, but Heathcliff paid me a visit.
Akira: Heath did?
Faust: Yeah. A humble party has been prepared at Shylock's bar, so if you'd like, please come by, he said....
I told him that he didn't have to be so considerate, but since he'd already given me congratulatory words, I couldn't just ignore him.
Akira: Ahaha. He did go out of his way to give you an invitation, after all. How was the party?
Faust: As soon as I arrived, they popped some party poppers. There were several wizards lying in wait, and the atmosphere was completely that of some idiotic fuss about to begin.
Even though Heathcliff said that it was "humble," the food and the alcohol were both quite lavish... Shylock said that it was a celebratory day, so he made me a special cocktail.
And I also drank with Lennox. We both don't talk much, but on that day, we made a lot of small talk with each other.
Akira: That sounds like a wonderful party... Their feelings of wanting to celebrate you are coming through.
Faust: ... Jeez. Even though those congratulatory words were more than enough for me.
Really, you all have terrible taste.
Note: I honestly don't know if, when Faust is referring to the elder tree, he means a specific tree or if it's a type of tree that exists in the valley. He has mentioned an elder tree before, but this might be the same one, so I can't tell based off of that, either. I decided to just have it be a single tree that he refers to as an elder tree because I feel like the context surrounding it eludes more to a single tree rather than a type of tree that may be planted in multiple places.
(location: Faust's room)
Akira: Faust, I'm sorry for suddenly coming by.
Faust: I don't mind, but... Is there something bothering you?
Akira: No, I came here to extend an invitation to you. If it's alright with you, will you do the "Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations" with me?
Faust: "Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations"...? What is that?
Akira: It seems to be a secret ritual that is known among the Sage's Wizards. When you do the ritual, supposedly the Sage and the Sage's Wizard's bond will get deeper.
On top of that, your magical power and your luck with money gets a boost, the spirits will bless you with good fortune, you'll become healthy; it's simple and a good bargain and gives you nothing but good things!
... Or, that's what Snow and White said. Apparently, that was written in an old document that they found recently.
Faust: ...... That sounds like a pretty suspect ritual.
Akira: I don't know the extent of the ritual's effects, but something wonderful happened to Mitile and Bradley, who both did the ritual.
That's why I thought that I would like to do it with you as well, Faust. Of course, as long as it isn't any trouble...
Faust let out a small sigh, like he was exasperated. I couldn't help my wry smile at his reaction, which was exactly what I'd been expecting.
Faust: ... So, what am I supposed to do?
Even while being suspicious of the ritual, it looks like he'll still go along with it. That makes me so happy that my voice can't help but get brighter.
Akira: Other wizards will help me with the preparations for the ritual. And so, will you give me one of your days off around your birthday?
Faust: Around my birthday?
Akira: Apparently, if you perform the ritual around a period when blessings are easy to gather... basically, in the vicinity of one's birthday, and if you perform it in a place connected to that wizard, that will give the results of the ritual the highest boost.
Faust: It sounds shadier the more I hear about it, but alright, I guess I understand...
Akira: Ahaha...
"Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulations ~Congratulations for Faust~" 2:
(location: Shylock's bar)
Akira: Everyone, thank you very much for coming today.
I had called three wizards to the bar. Shylock, Heathcliff, and Lennox.
Lennox: I heard that there is something you would like to discuss with us.
Akira: Yes. Since it will be Faust's birthday soon, in order to celebrate it, I plan on conducting a certain ritual with Faust.
The necessary things for the ritual are a special outfit and congratulatory words from the Sage and three people with a connection to that person.
Akira: Snow and White will be the ones to prepare the outfit, so...
Shylock: So, we will be preparing congratulatory words?
Akira: Yes, that's right. It seems like Shylock talks to Faust a lot as a fellow teacher, and Heath looks up to Faust as his teacher, so...
And I think Lennox has known Faust the longest.
Shylock: It makes me happy to hear that you think that way.
Lennox: Yes, it is an honor.
Heathcliff: If it's okay that it's me, then I'd love to. I'm happy that you chose me for such a wonderful occasion.
But, where should I begin...?
Lennox: Words for Master Faust...
Heathcliff & Lennox: ......
Maybe it's because they're lost in thought, but the both of them have gone silent with serious expressions on their faces.
Akira: U-Umm, it's troubling when you're told so suddenly, right?
Shylock: Hehe. I understand their feelings of getting lost in thought. While I am also the same, I'm sure these two in particular have many congratulatory words they would like to tell him.
Heathcliff: I-I'm sorry. I had no idea what words I should use to convey my feelings...
After all, ever since I met Master Faust at the Magic Manor, there's been so many things he's helped me with.
Lennox: I heard that you didn't have much luck with your mentor, and that you had many difficulties when you first came here.
Master Faust is a sincere person with much compassion, so I'm sure he couldn't just leave the situation as is.
Heathcliff: Yes... And that's exactly why I would like to take this occasion to properly say my thanks to Master Faust.
Shylock smiled as he watched the two of them interact.
Shylock: I also quite like his seriousness and awkward kindness.
When he was here at the bar the other day, he casually called out to Chloe, who was troubled over the design for his new clothes...
Lennox: Oh, that time. I was present as well, so I also remember that.
After being shown the design sketch, Master Faust nonchalantly praised Chloe and expressed his opinions, attempting to help him even while saying that he doesn't know much about clothes.
Heathcliff: That's very like Master Faust... To think about it and consider it with you.
Lennox: Yeah. Chloe was grateful, too. He was excited and said that he would make clothes for Master Faust as thanks...
Shylock: Yes, that's right. He brought out many cloths with magic, and as Chloe was saying this would look good or that would be good and fastening the cloths on, Faust wound up cocooned in cloth.
Heathcliff: What...?!
Akira: (Somehow, it looks like the Faust Talk has gotten pretty lively...)
It looks like it'll take a little more time to receive their congratulatory words. Even while thinking that, I listened to their conversation with pleasant feelings.
"Ritual of Starlight, Words, and Congratulation ~Congratulations for Faust~" 3:
(location: Valley of Storms)
Some days later, Faust and I went to the Valley of Storms.
A place that is rich in nature and you can see many stars is even better suited for the ritual, it seems.
Faust is already clothed in the outfit for the ritual. The virtuous and dignified atmosphere of the forest at night naturally makes me straighten up my posture.
Faust: ... It seems like the presences of the spirits have gathered. Is it alright to do it around here?
Akira: Yes. Then, I shall begin the ritual. Faust, please close your eyes.
Faust: ......
I hover my hand over his chest. I say the congratulatory words I was entrusted with by the other three as if I were chanting them.
Akira: First, words from Shylock.
"I find how composed you are likeable, but I think the smile that appears when you're a bit drunk is wonderful as well."
Next, from Heathcliff...
"I'm always helped by your kindness, Master Faust. I will do my best so that I can assist you one day."
And then, Lennox...
"Master Faust. May today, and not just today but every day, be a day of happiness in your eyes."
And lastly, from me...
Faust. I'm grateful from the bottom of my heart that you're one of the Sage's Wizards. Happy birthday.
*ring*
After saying all of the congratulatory words, I feel something warm overflow from deep within my chest. I have a feeling that the sensation also reached Faust.
Akira: ... How was it?
When I call out to him, Faust lifts his eyelids. He takes a slow blink as if he's confirming something.
Faust: ... Honestly, I don't really know. But, their words and yours... they made me happy.
Akira: Thank goodness... Heath and Lennox had quite a bit of trouble.
They said that they can't be as thoughtful with words as Shylock is, so because of that, they really put their feelings into conveying their thoughts.
Faust: Haha. That sounds like them.
*meow*
Faust: ... Did you hear a cat just meow?
Suddenly, a white cat and a black cat suddenly appear at our feet.
Akira: Huh? Where did you two...
The two cats walked a bit and then turned back in our direction, meowing at us.
*meow*
Faust: Are they saying to follow them...?
We follow after them as if we're being guided. And upon doing that, a single tree is there to greet us.
*tree leaves rustling*
Faust: ... The elder tree...?
Akira: Wow, it's beautiful...
I couldn't help but be captivated. There are so many flowers in full bloom that the tree itself looks like white haze.
Faust: I can't believe that there are so many flowers blooming during this time period...
I can only think that something has influenced the spirits of this forest, but... Don't tell me it was that ritual we just did?
*wind blows*
Suddenly, a strong wind gusts by. The elder flowers are blown upward, and all at once, they come dancing down. As if a blizzard were happening, our surroundings are dyed in white.
Faust: ... Heh, haha.
Faust glanced my way, and suddenly started laughing.
Faust: You look terrible, you know.
There's a bunch of flowers stuck to your head, and you look like a dog that rolled around in the snow.
Akira: Whaa? Really...?!
I scramble to basically toss my hair and throw off the flowers. While still chuckling to himself and with a smile leftover on the corner of his mouth, Faust chants his incantation.
Faust: "Satillqunart Mullcreed."
*ding*
Two baskets appear in Faust's hands. He hands one of them to me.
Faust: Will you help me pick some flowers? If there's this many, I'll be able to make a lot of syrup.
I'll be able to give back to those three who gave me their congratulations.
The elder flowers that fluttered into the air slowly fall down from the sky at a gentle speed.
Beyond this white flower shower that is like a congratulations, I see a gentle smile.
Akira: Yes, let's gather a basketful!
I honestly don't know if there's been an effect like what's written in that document.
But I hope that to Faust, today in particular will be something as gentle and pleasant as these flowers are.
While hoping that, I reach my hand out toward the elder flowers.
Card Episode "Humble Feelings of Congratulation":
(location: fountain)
Akira: Faust, it sounds like the three who gave you your congratulatory words celebrated your birthday as well.
Faust: So you've already heard about that...
Akira: I heard about it from Shylock. I was absent since I was on a mission, so I couldn't participate. What kind of celebration was it?
Faust: I was locked away in my room like usual on my birthday, but Heathcliff paid me a visit.
Akira: Heath did?
Faust: Yeah. A humble party has been prepared at Shylock's bar, so if you'd like, please come by, he said....
I told him that he didn't have to be so considerate, but since he'd already given me congratulatory words, I couldn't just ignore him.
Akira: Ahaha. He did go out of his way to give you an invitation, after all. How was the party?
Faust: As soon as I arrived, they popped some party poppers. There were several wizards lying in wait, and the atmosphere was completely that of some idiotic fuss about to begin.
Even though Heathcliff said that it was "humble," the food and the alcohol were both quite lavish... Shylock said that it was a celebratory day, so he made me a special cocktail.
And I also drank with Lennox. We both don't talk much, but on that day, we made a lot of small talk with each other.
Akira: That sounds like a wonderful party... Their feelings of wanting to celebrate you are coming through.
Faust: ... Jeez. Even though those congratulatory words were more than enough for me.
Really, you all have terrible taste.
Note: I honestly don't know if, when Faust is referring to the elder tree, he means a specific tree or if it's a type of tree that exists in the valley. He has mentioned an elder tree before, but this might be the same one, so I can't tell based off of that, either. I decided to just have it be a single tree that he refers to as an elder tree because I feel like the context surrounding it eludes more to a single tree rather than a type of tree that may be planted in multiple places.