City of Affluence (Rustica) Location Sub-Episodes

[shivalries]

Click the episode title to jump down to the translation!

About the Great Calamity
About the Western Kingdom
A Dangerous Place
A Fun Place
Break Time (1)
Break Time (2)
Impressions of Rustica (1)
Impressions of Rustica (2)
Impressions of Rustica (3)
Impressions of Rustica (4)
Impressions of Rustica (5)
Rustica's Usual Place
Impressions of the Spot (1)
Impressions of the Spot (2)
Impressions of the Spot (3)
Local Specialty
People at the Spot
Wizards at the Spot
Spot Discovery
Spot-related Story (1)
Spot-related Story (2)
Spot-related Story (3)
Spot Memories (1)
Spot Memories (2)
Spot Memories (3)


About the Great Calamity

Rustica: Before your crest appeared on my body, I didn't really think much about the Great Calamity or the Sage.

It was simply natural to me that the Great Calamity would approach the land, then retreat after a night of frenzy.

Like the wind blowing during a broom ride in the sky, or the longing that comes with nightfall after a day spent with one's beloved...

That's why, when eventually I'll be told I must stand against the Great Calamity, I believe I'll feel a bit perplexed.

Akira: Perplexed?

Rustica: Yes. For example, I would feel quite perplexed if told to stand against my own breakfast time.

Or if I were told to stand against rearranging my room, for example.

Perhaps I'm not very good at standing against problems in general.

Akira: I see... Then, how do you prefer to tackle problems?

When the time comes, I want to make it as little of a burden on you as possible.

Rustica: I believe I'm best at acceptance.

The Great Calamity may destroy the world, but I would find it easiest if I were asked to simply accept it.

However, I don't think I should actually do that...

How troubling.


About the Western Kingdom

Akira: Even among all the places in the Western Kingdom, this area is especially lively. Do you like places like this too, Rustica?

Rustica: I suppose. When I'm in a lively place, I want to find somewhere quiet...

But when I'm in a quiet place, I want to go somewhere lively. So in that sense, I do like them.

Akira: Ahaha. Somehow, that's very West-like of you to not prefer either place above the other.

Rustica: Personally, whether it's noisy or quiet, I like places in which I can feel relaxed.

I might not do so well if it is lively but stifling, or quiet but lonely.

Akira: What kind of place would be both lively and relaxing...?

Rustica: For example, a place where you can enjoy music. When you're surrounded with cheerful melodies, it fills your heart with a gentle bliss.

The Western Kingdom abounds with the fine arts. It is also filled with people who enjoy and adore the arts.

Here, you can always meet those who love to savor the joy of the artistic sense—those who are masters at art appreciation.

Akira: Right, the Western wizards at the manor all seem to be artistic types.

Rustica: Of course, the whole world is filled with wonderful art.

However, the way people enjoy it in the Western Kingdom feels the most intuitive to me.


A Dangerous Place

Shylock: Ah, Master Sage.

The direction you're heading has some dangerous establishments. I would suggest you turn back.

Akira: Huh? It's dangerous...?

Shylock: Yes. The places there are rather bone-chilling, nerve-wracking, and heart-pounding.

Options
>Ask about the bone-chilling place.
>Ask about the nerve-wracking place.
>Ask about the heart-pounding place.

>Ask about the bone-chilling place.

Akira: What do you mean, bone-chilling?

Shylock: There's a haunted mansion there, you see. Since long ago, the area has been afflicted with a powerful curse, well-known even among wizards...

The owner of the mansion built on those grounds was overjoyed when the curse overtook the whole building...

Akira: Overjoyed?!

Shylock: The people of the Western Country love anything strange.

So then, the owner began to collect items of dubious origin, ignorant of their impurity. Now the mansion has become quite the awful place.

I would rather not go myself for fear of inviting the curse upon myself... But I do believe you could have a thrilling experience there.

Akira: If even you don't consider it safe, Shylock, then I don't think it's a good idea to go.

Shylock: Very wise, Master Sage. Upon hearing the rumors, Murr set off for the place himself once, but...

In a rare show of fear, he said it was quite scary.

>Ask about the nerve-wracking place.

Akira: What do you mean, nerve-wracking...?

Shylock: There's a pub where Central soldiers gather in disguise.

They are probably here on duty, but you never know when it could turn troublesome. I'd advise you not to approach them.

Akira: Would it get troublesome having Central people here?

Shylock: It's one thing if they're tourists, but soldiers...? Though the two kingdoms may get along on the surface, we've been hostile to each other for a long time.

Akira: ...I never knew the Central and Western kingdoms were like that...

Shylock: Regardless of how it happened, it's no surprise people think the Central Kingdom, which houses the Magic Manor, is under the protection of Oz and Mithra.

The Western Kingdom has been developing its magical engineering technology, gathering wealth and military might. Tensions are very high—and that's no exaggeration.

>Ask about the heart-pounding place.

Akira: What do you mean, heart-pounding...?

Shylock: Hm. How do I put this...

There's a place that's a bit lacking in the good senses of regular society. Does that make sense?

Akira: Ah, I see... I think I kind of get it...

So, it's kind of a dangerous place, then?

Shylock: I wonder. From what I've heard about it, you don a mask, strip down to minimal clothing, put on a cape...

Find a wonderful partner, do as you like, and leave once the fun is over... Apparently that's how it works.


A Fun Place

Murr: Let's go to the casino, Master Sage! This city's the richest in the world! So the casinos here are the best!

Which one do you wanna visit: the wizards-only casino where folks pile on trick after trick, or the humans-only casino where you face off with luck and skills alone?

Akira: Can I even go inside...? Is there some kind of age limit?

Murr: Yeah, sure! Anybody can enter, as long as they act like proper ladies and gentlemen!

But even if you can't, it's fine! The scary people will just throw you out!

Akira: You sure like dangerous places, don't you... What do you like about gambling, Murr?

Murr: The thrill of possibly losing something! The exhilaration of gaining something, even though you might lose something else!

Akira: You don't think it's scary?

Murr: I do! It's super scary! But scary things are so interesting! I wanna enjoy being totally frightened!

I can treat you to it, but if you really wanna have fun, you should bet something yourself.

What you have in this world are your life or your labor. Those are irreplaceable and one-of-a-kind.

Since you're a beginner, you should start off betting with your labor!

Akira: L-Labor...?

Murr: If you bet a day's worth of dishwashing, you might be able to play one game! If that's not enough, then throw in your life, too!

Let's go! Come on, let's make lots of scary gambles together!



Break Time (1)

Akira: Whew...

Rustica: ...Master Sage, if you have the time, would you allow me to show you around the City of Affluence in a horse-drawn carriage?

Akira: A carriage? Wow, I wanna ride! Does it fly? Or no?

Rustica: Let's take the one on the ground today. If we do, then you can look forward to the flying one next time we come here.


Akira: So the City of Affluence has carriages instead of buses and taxis... The decorations and seats are so luxurious. Even the cushions are fluffy.

Rustica: I'm honored you like them so much. Look there, that's the most high-class hotel in the city. It's a gorgeous building inside and out.

Even seeing them from a step away, the amusements of this city never cease to entertain us.

Akira: This place really does seem to be full of cheerful, unique people...

Rustica: Master Sage. Hold out your hand.

With a smooth gesture, Rustica extended his long fingers. They glowed faintly, and then a fresh piece of sugar fell into my outstretched hand.

Rustica: Here. A wizard's sugar can heal one's exhaustion.

Akira: Ah... Thank you. I was actually feeling a little lethargic...

Rustica: I'm the one who should be thanking you, Master Sage.

Even in a city like this, having your free time all to myself is the greatest indulgence.


Break Time (2)

Akira: Rustica, Murr, you look like you're having fun. What are you talking about?

Murr: Pranks!

Rustica: We were enjoying a pleasant discussion about pranks. As it so happens, we share similar opinions about them.

Akira: You do?

Murr: A good prank is funny, but I can't deny there's a little bit of aggression there.

If we play one on someone weaker than us, it may end up scaring them instead.

It's only when both the pranker and prankee see it as funny that a prank is successfully fun and hilarious. So...

Murr & Rustica: You can only play pranks against someone who would get scary if you mess it up.

Akira: I see...

Rustica: So with that in mind...

We were discussing what would be good to use on Master Oz if we were to summon him to this city.

Murr: For example, he could walk down this road, and suddenly all the passersby would start dancing and putting on a show!

Rustica: And the Central wizards walking with him would actually be in on the joke, so everyone starts dancing together.

Murr: And the Northern wizards would come from the sky, the Southern wizards from behind that tree, and the Eastern wizards from that window over there!

Murr & Rustica: And then all of them propose to him at once!

Akira: That's a very flashy prank...

Murr: It's a flashy city!


Impressions of Rustica (1)

Shylock: Just the other day, Rustica came to the bar at the manor and proposed we enjoy a game together.

Akira: At the manor's bar? What kind of game?

Shylock: A game in which I close up shop for the day to go to his room, and he treats me to some tea and music.

Akira: ...Wait, in other words...

Shylock: After a few days of serious training, the exhaustion was likely starting to show on my face. He's a sharp one, so I couldn't hide it from him.

Akira: How sauve. He was really watching out for you, Shylock.

Shylock: He is kind, gentlemanly, and has a talent for bringing out the joy in the smallest things. It makes him quite the wonderful, amiable man.

By the same token, he can be a little frightening when he desires someone.

Akira: ...Frightening?

Shylock: Indeed. I haven't inquired too deeply about his missing bride, but...

The moment he finds her, he's sure to lock her up in his birdcage. I would guess he's surprisingly the type to desire control and confinement.

Akira: When you put it that way, it makes sense...

Shylock: Fufu. I find Rustica fascinating—including that invigorating, complex part of him.

Though I do wonder about Chloe. Rather than loving that other face of Rustica, one could presume he doesn't even notice it at all.

I'm rather fond of Chloe as well. I should hope nothing happens that would hurt him.


Impressions of Rustica (2)

Akira: Murr, what's your impression of Rustica?

Murr: I like him! He's interesting! And he plays along with my jokes!

I also like his music, and we have similar tastes in food!

We introduced ourselves to each other at the manor, but I feel like we'd already met before, y'know!

Akira: Huh? You knew Rustica before then? What about Chloe?

Murr: Maybe? Maybe not? ...I forgot!

Akira: I think Chloe wouldn't forget, at least... Rustica said he's been traveling for a long time, so maybe you met him on the road?

Murr: Ahaha! Who knows!

But I forgot all about it, and Rustica said it was our first time meeting...

So even if we did know each other from before, it might be closer to the truth to say we never had.

Akira: ...?? I'm getting confused...

Murr: Meeting someone is one of the most exciting things in life!

You can taste it over and over again; it's awesome! Don't you think so too, Master Sage?


Impressions of Rustica (3)

Akira: Before coming to the Magic Manor, you were traveling with Rustica, right? What do you think of him, Chloe?

Rustica: I'd certainly love to know, too.

Chloe: Wha— Saying it right in front of him feels kind of embarrassing, though...

Of course, he's my favorite wizard in the whole manor!

He can be a bit spacey sometimes, but he changed my life, and he's my beloved teacher, and he's really nice, and...

Rustica: I'm flattered. You're also my favorite wizard, a kind person, and my beloved apprentice, Chloe.

Chloe: Ehehe... Ah, right! I wanted to ask you something, Rustica.

After we arrived at the manor, people told you stuff like, whoa, aren't you super strong?

I don't know much about magic power, but is it true? If it is, I'd totally think my teacher is the coolest ever.

Options
>I get it!
>Maybe, but...

>I get it!

Akira: You really do seem strong, Rustica! I can always depend on you when it comes down to it.

Rustica: Fufu.

Chloe: So? Are you super strong, Rustica?

Rustica: I wonder. Stronger than a mouse, perhaps.

Chloe: Oh, you're just playing dumb again. ...Whoa, maybe you're stronger than Master Oz, then?

Rustica: Mmm... I'm not sure, since I've never gone up against him, but...

If you're curious, Chloe, then I'll try inviting Master Oz for a bout.

Akira: Ah...! He disappeared! Is he really gonna go see Oz...?

Chloe: A-Ahhh...! Wait, come back! You always choose these times to be enthusiastic...!

>Maybe, but...

Akira: Maybe, but... It's kinda hard to imagine Rustica fighting like Mithra would or something.

Chloe: That's true... He's kind and relaxed, and doesn't seem like the type to jump into fights at all.

Rustica: Which do you like better, Chloe? The savagery and fearlessness of the north, perhaps? I can definitely use such resolute, shrewd magic myself.

Chloe: I like you just the way you are! I know all your good points, after all.

You really treasure the bride you're looking for.

So I think your desire to protect her naturally made you stronger.

I love your kind magic the most, Rustica!


Impressions of Rustica (4)

Oz: I've heard the name Ferrucci before.

Akira: Huh...? By Ferrucci, you mean Rustica's last name, right?

Oz: A long time ago, I visited this area with Figaro. I believe I met some distinguished nobles back then.

They were wealthy and influential figures of the West. With funds and labor provided by the Ferrucci family, they had been using the Ferrucci castle as a base.

The luxurious, extravagant, ostentatiously built citadel was a phenomenon; there has never been anything like it since.

Akira: So does that mean you've met Rustica before?

Oz: No. Everyone I met in the castle was human. Besides, if I heard his music there, I would've remembered it. He wasn't there.

Akira: I see... You often come to listen to Rustica's harpsichord in the manor, right?

Oz: I do.

The other day, I ran across him playing in the courtyard. He asked me if I wanted to try too...

So, I'm practicing.

Akira: What?!

Oz: He was very insistent.

He wanted me to play an unfinished song, missing half its notes. It cuts off just before the most exciting part, so I'm waiting for it to be completed.


Impressions of Rustica (5)

Akira: I sometimes see you with Rustica, Owen. So you two get along?

Owen: Huh...? I don't get along with anyone.

Don't misunderstand me and go around spreading things that would earn me mocking sneers from Mithra and Bradley.

Akira: O-Okay, I won't...

Owen: The Western wizards are all so annoyingly noisy. Even if you try to threaten them, they'll say you're scary, but they actually want to be scared. It messes with me.

That stately nobleman is especially weird. Lately, he starts writing songs whenever we meet.

I've been singing for him for a while. The song he's writing is slowly reaching completion, and now it's just about reached the most exciting part...

Akira: (I guess he means the chorus...?)

Owen: Whenever we see each other, he always asks me to sing the song "I" wrote, and no matter how I insist that he's the one who wrote it, he never listens.

I've never worked on a joint project, nor do I want to, and yet it feels like I'm being made to do it. I kinda hate it.

Akira: (...He's complaining a lot, but even so, he still hangs out with Rustica. I mean, maybe he finds it hard to refuse, but...)

(Maybe because wizards like music in general, they all end up liking Rustica and his performances, too...)

Owen: Hey.

Akira: Y-Yes?

Owen: You were thinking something stupid, weren't you? Do you really want to die so badly, Master Sage?


Rustica's Usual Place

Rustica: Ah, Master Sage. Could I make a stop by the bank? That's where I keep my travel funds.

Akira: The bank? There are banks in this world, too?

Rustica: Indeed there are. It might not be very common for wizards to use banks, but...

I'm a bit forgetful, you see. I lose my wallet often, so I leave my money management to them.

Clerk: Welcome...! Well, well, what have we here? Lord Rustica in the flesh!

Rustica: Good day. I would like to withdraw from my savings.

Clerk: Very well. Please, go on ahead.

Rustica: Thank you, but I have a guest with me today, so I'd like to perform the transaction right here.

Clerk: Understood. We've also received a letter for you, so please have a seat, and I'll be with you shortly.

Akira: Whoa, sounds like you're a regular customer...! So this bank handles mail, too?

Rustica: Sometimes the royal palace sends requests for harpsichord performances, anticipating that I'll drop by this bank every so often.

I presume it's because I was always traveling and never had a fixed address.

Though sometimes they would wait several decades for an answer, and by the time I'd return, the crown would have already been passed down to the next generation.

Akira: You've been getting requests for that long...? Then you know the king of the Western Kingdom personally, Rustica?

Rustica: Yes. Though lately I've been quite friendly with the Central Kingdom's crown prince as well.

Akira: Ah, right...

(At times like this, it really sinks in that I'm living with some very important people...)


Impressions of the Spot (1)

Shylock: As is fitting of the kingdom's capital, the social establishments in the City of Affluence once felt like the epitome of the West experience. But in recent years, their standards have been slipping.

Akira: Standards...? Is that due to the development of magical engineering here?

Shylock: That is part of it, yes, but this city has simply become too wealthy.

Folks here have created ways to accumulate the world's wealth, and a new nobility has been born. They devised and succeeded with plans to make this city prosper, all without feeling attachment to it.

And now they have access to everything they could ever want as they sit in their cushioned chairs.

Akira: ......

Shylock: In principle, only with an equal amount of labor and passion do the delights and carnal pleasures taste so sweet after you acquire them...

To seek stimulation alone—to indulge in pleasures using wealth gained without equal payment—is twisted and unnatural. I can't bring myself to like this city in recent years.

Akira: ...It might be nice to have everything so convenient, but it's sad to see the things you liked about this place disappear, huh...

Shylock: ...Fufu. You're very kind, Master Sage. Thank you.

Nowadays, rather than those who appear at social gatherings, those sitting and pondering in cafes might better capture the spirit of the Western Kingdom.

Akira: Cafes?

Shylock: Indeed. Sitting at a cafe in the morning, worrying over relationships, planning a day full of hope...

In those little nooks, I believe the image of my beloved West still remains—a place where people use their own thoughts, understand their pleasures, and go wherever their desires lead them.


Impressions of the Spot (2)

Riquet: This ostentatious city may be filled with excitement wherever you look and capture your gaze at every turn, but I know the truth.

This is temptation.

Akira: I see...

Riquet: This place goes above and beyond the markets in the Central Kingdom. For instance...

There's about ten times as much food piled up here as Nero would ever allow me to eat in one sitting...

And it looks positively delicious.

Akira: You're right...

Riquet: Cain might get merry when he's drunk, but these people seem twenty times as merry, dancing in what barely counts as clothing...

It looks incredibly fun.

Akira: It's true that when you peek into the alleyways, this place does seem like a bad influence...

Riquet: When the Western wizards at the manor return home, do they all revert to this? I must lead them to the correct path...

Citizen: Hey there little laddie, what say you to some honey cake? It's sweet and delicious—and I'll give you a bargain on the whole stack!

Riquet: ...! Wow, it really does look tasty...

Just asking, Master Sage: a "bargain" would mean...

...engaging in moderation and asceticism, correct...?


Impressions of the Spot (3)

Heathcliff: This is such a grand and lively place, isn't it? The Central capital is full of people from every country coming and going all the time, but...

In the City of Affluence, it feels like there's a lot of pressure to know everything about the city and keep ahead of all the trends...

Akira: Yeah, I think I get what you mean...

You don't really like crowds, right, Heathcliff? I saw someone come up to you earlier. Are you alright?

Heathcliff: Thanks for your concern, Master Sage. I was just a little surprised because it was so sudden, but I'm fine. I do want to explore the city a little bit more.

Akira: Oh, I didn't expect you to be interested in such a busy place. Did you find something amusing?

Heathcliff: The opposite, actually.

Akira: What do you mean?

Heathcliff: The wealth gap in the Western Kingdom is huge, so people from all around the kingdom gravitate toward big cities like this to look for work.

But those who can't find any have no place to go, so slums were formed on nearby lands.

Poor cities mean there will be more children like Chloe and Shino who grow up poor. I think this is clearly a failure of the current ruler.

Knowing that the enormous wealth flowing into the kingdom goes right into the hands of those in power, and seeing their wide, happy smiles is really frustrating, don't you think?


Local Specialty

Akira: Is this a magical engineering shop? Rather than a store, it looks like a mansion...

Rustica: Magical engineering has only cropped up in recent years, so I'm not familiar with this place, either. But if you're interested, shall we take a look?

Shopkeeper: Welcome to our store. I can show you our very latest stock of popular magical items, or perhaps you'd like to view the products currently in development?

Options
>Look at the large ring.
>Look at the richly-decorated chest.
>Look at the flying carriage.

>Look at the large ring.

Akira: This ring with the large stone... Is this a magical item, too? Wait, is that a wire coming out of it?

Shopkeeper: This is a product you can wear on your person like a ring. You put it on, then wrap this device around your arm...

Affix this belt to your waist, and strap this fuel tank to your back...

Rustica: It seems quite heavy. What does it do?

Shopkeeper: When you snap your fingers, it releases fire, wind, flowers, or light.

Akira: Whoa...!! My fingers are like a lighter— O-Ouch...!!

Rustica: Master Sage!

Shopkeeper: With this product, you can light a pipe, blow out candles on a birthday cake, or enjoy beautiful flower petals.

>Look at the richly-decorated chest.

Akira: A huge box, like a washing machine... It's decorated so beautifully. Is this a machine, too?

Shopkeeper: This is Mana, a magical device that can answer all sorts of questions you ask it.

Just say, "Hey, Mana" and ask your question.

Rustica: Oh, I see. Let me try.

Hey, Mana. Could you tell me about Murr Hart?

Akira: (I've heard this exchange before...)

Mana: Murr Hart is known as an extraordinary scholar and philosopher. It is rumored that his pursuit of the study of the Great Calamity ended in the splintering of his soul. His current whereabouts are unknown.

Rustica: Hey, Mana. Tell me about Oz the wizard.

Mana: Oz is a ruthless wizard residing in the Northern Kingdom. He once plotted to conquer the world, plunging it into fear. Savage and inhumane, Oz has long claws, sharp teeth, and drinks the blood of virgins.

Akira: (Sounds like you can't update Mana's information...)

>Look at the flying carriage.

Akira: Do you have flying carriages here, like the ones going over the main roads?

Shopkeeper: Of course! Flying carriages are all the rage these days. Unfortunately, we're running low on available horses, so it may take more time to deliver it to you.

Rustica: Horses? Are they mechanical, too?

Shopkeeper: No, they're just normal horses. However, they're still afraid of flying in the air, so we've hired a trainer to help them.

Rustica: Poor things. Would it be possible to fly without a horse?

Shopkeeper: Of course, but... doesn't it feel incomplete without one?

Rustica & Akira: ......

Shopkeeper: Rest assured, dear customers. We will find you the most suitable horse we have. As for the price... How about this?

Akira: Uh... In terms of things I could buy, how much money is this?

Rustica: Hm... I'd say you could build three mansions in the Central capital with this much.

Choices converge

Rustica: To think such a complicated device would be created, all to mimic the effects of magic. Humans must really look up to wizards.

Shylock despises magical engineering, but I think he would enjoy the pure feelings of wanting to get closer to what you admire.

Shopkeeper: You may think so, dear customer, but we don't admire wizards in any way.

Using stone and steel is the easiest way to make magic without relying on wizards. That's all there is to it.


People at the Spot

Akira: Chloe, do you have anything like acquaintances or friends in the City of Affluence?

Chloe: Me? No way!

Human or wizard, pretty much all the people here are born and raised rich.

If they saw me, a wizard who grew up in the slums, next to Rustica, they'd probably think I'm a servant.

Akira: Oh no, really...?

Chloe: Ah, I mean, not that it bothers me!! No matter what other people think, Rustica is my beloved teacher...

And he's an important friend to me. That's the truth.

Oh right, I don't have friends here, but there is someone I admire.

Akira: Yeah? Who?

Chloe: A really famous designer lives here—and owns a store, too, but apparently it only opens once every fifty years!

You need an invitation to enter, so only hand-picked celebrities and nobles get to buy the newest releases.

Akira: Once in every fifty years... Does that mean that person is a wizard, too?

Chloe: Yup! Every time the store opens, the fashion trends for the next year take a sudden turn!

It's a secret goal of mine to become a tailor so famous that I can get an invitation before the next opening.


Wizards at the Spot

Chloe: I've come to the City of Affluence a lot, but once a long time ago, I almost got kidnapped by a wizard here.

Akira: You... You what?! A lot of people pass through here... Did you get hurt?

Chloe: No, I was fine! I was still a little kid back then, and I knew nothing about the world.

I was spacing out on the street waiting for Rustica to finish an errand at this one store, and that's when this old guy started talking to me.

He told me he was also a wizard, but that it’s so lonely all by himself, so maybe I could be his friend.

And that made me feel kinda happy, but also kinda sad. I was always alone, too, you know.

So he started bugging me to come to his house, but I told him I was waiting for someone. Then he'd make this horribly sad face and said I needed to go with him right away.

Akira: Sounds like a classic kidnapper trick... So, did you end up going to his house?

Chloe: I did... It was a small place, you know, but it was piled high with mana stones...

Akira: What the...?!

Chloe: Freaky stuff, right? I was horrified, and I just stood there frozen in place and almost in tears, but at some point, Rustica showed up beside me.

"Sorry I'm late. I got lost," he told me as he patted my head. When I heard his voice I was so relieved that I immediately passed out.

When I woke up again, I was in a bed at an inn. It was all my fault, but Rustica was even nicer to me than usual.

I'd forgotten since I was spending all my time with Rustica, but I learned that day that there are bad wizards out there too. It was really scary.


Spot Discovery

Mitile: Wah! Look at that, Master Sage! There's a huge pillar in the street!

Akira: Oh, you're right. It's gorgeously decorated, too, with all those jewels in it. I wonder if they're real...

Mitile: It looks even bigger than the ones in Prince Arthur's castle. But why is it just standing there by itself?

Gentleman: Hello, young lad. That's a pillar from what was known as the Sapphire Castle.

It was a castle owned by a very powerful noble family that fell about four hundred years ago. After it crumbled down, only this one pillar remained.

Mitile: A castle with such beautiful pillars was destroyed? Four hundred years ago, so... it was destroyed in the war?

Gentleman: No, apparently its owners' business simply failed. I've heard that they used all their wealth to protect the Western Kingdom from the fires of the villainous Oz for a short while, but...

There's also a rumor that they angered the royal family, which ultimately got them destroyed.

Akira: (Protecting an entire kingdom with personal funds... If the jewels in this pillar are real, I could imagine that...)

Gentleman: With just a pillar this beautiful, the entire castle must've been absolutely magnificent. To destroy such a treasure, I question the aesthetics of the people back then.

Older Gentleman: Pardon, sir. Are you talking about the Sapphire Castle? I think you're quite mistaken. True beauty is found in transience, when you know that something beautiful will eventually disappear.

Gentleman: Excuse me?

Mitile & Akira: (They started arguing...)


Spot-related Story (1)

Akira: The City of Affluence is such a vibrant city, isn't it? There are people everywhere, and the shops are filled to the brim with all kinds of pretty and fancy things. Seems like they've got a price tag to match, too...

Rustica: Many who belong to the royal or noble families live in the capital, so I suppose it's natural that there would be many stores that sell things they would like.

Akira: You know a lot about this place, don't you Rustica? You're familiar with the stores here and all. Have you lived here before?

Rustica: I've stayed for long periods of time before, but I've never owned a home here.

Still, I've made many stops here on my journeys. There are plenty of shops and inns that I like, and there's also a large bank.

The shops owned by wizards always welcome me in the same garb and with the same hospitality, no matter the era. The comfort and familiarity of it sets my heart at ease.

On the other hand, human-run stores change with the times, bringing with them fresh surprises and delights. This new knowledge tickles my curiosity and incites my desires.

So I love both very much.

Akira: Oh, then could you recommend a good place to buy sweets? I want to get gifts for everyone at the manor.

Rustica: A wonderful idea. If we're to give the others a true taste of the City of Affluence, I would recommend a magical establishment.

See that sweets shop with the red walls? There's a door in the roof. It's a wizard-only store that is only reachable by broom.

Akira: A special city store for wizards only...

Rustica: Indeed. It is famous for its darioles, which when eaten will plunge you into the dreams of your desires for three days and three nights.

Akira: (It sounds as dangerous as I imagined...)

Rustica: There are plenty of other delicious and charming sweets there. Please, join me on my broom, Master Sage.



Spot-related Story (2)

Akira: The City of Affluence is bursting with life—even the wizard shops are out in the open.

What's life like here among both humans and wizards?

Murr: Simple! We hate each other, but we don't have to trust to use each other!

Even people who normally despise wizards will come sneaking over for a favor if they have a secret they can't reveal to other humans!

And wizards who normally despise humans might try hiding among humans if they betray their friends!

The City of Affluence is a city of desire! The more freely desire flows, the more people have to hide!

Akira: I see...

Rustica: There's the issue of trust as well. It's easy to deceive humans with magic...

But continuing to deceive them will eventually cost you your human customers.

Some places have mostly magical patrons, like Bar Bennett.

Doing business with humans, however, requires a certain amount of trust and customer service.

Of course, it's not a bad thing to be choosy about one's customers, but...

Such arrogant behavior will ultimately result in losing the privilege to choose. It's give-and-take, so to speak.

Akira: Give-and-take... I think I get it now. So you're... coexisting, but separate.

Tavern Woman: Oh my, such lovely people... Care to have a drink at our place? We have some house rules, though...

Murr: Are wizards banned?

Akira: What about humans?

Tavern Woman: We won't accept anyone who's taken. Singles, however, are absolutely welcome.

Murr: Awesome! See ya, Rustica. I'm off to have some fun!

Rustica: I apologize for being unable to join, but I do have a bride. See you soon, Murr.

Akira: (So it's not just "humans" and "wizards" who are separate...)


Spot-related Story (3)

Akira: The City of Affluence is such an extravagant place. I think it's really cool that you know so well, Rustica.

Rustica: I'm honored, Master Sage. The City of Affluence is also a city of art; as a musician, this is welcome praise.

Fine arts, music... theater-going as well—there is a wealth of delights in this city.

Which of these interests you, Master Sage?

Options
>Fine arts
>Music
>Theater-going

>Fine arts

Akira: Maybe... the fine arts?

Rustica: The most famous painter in the city is probably Chirico. One Chirico work sells for an enormous amount of money.

"Chirico" is but a trade name, though—there is a certain family that has continued their painting tradition for two hundred years, you see.

Only the most skilled artist in the family may take on that name.

I've met the original Chirico and the previous Chirico. ...Or perhaps it was the one before that? Or two before? Or four?

>Music

Akira: Maybe... music?

Rustica: Wonderful! You and I could get along very well. Later on, shall we take a peek at Romeo's instrument workshop?

The greatest musicians gather here in this city—as do the greatest musical artisans.

The instruments here are all top quality, hewn from the finest timber from Castle Blanchette. They're truly fantastic, I assure you.

>Theater-going

Akira: Maybe... theater-going?

Rustica: So you enjoy theater? Well then, shall we pay a visit to the most talented actors of this day and age?

There are plenty of musical troupes here in the city.

The most popular actor is one called Adam from the Liore troupe, who has a face and voice the likes of which you'd only see once a thousand years.

The only drawback is that he despises wizards. However...

I don't think it would be a terrible choice to listen to his voice at least once before he passes.

Choices converge

Akira: This is all really interesting. Thank you for telling me.

By the way, are you famous in this city as well, Rustica? Sometimes I sense people's eyes being drawn to you...

Rustica: Occasionally, I come here to perform at the palace's behest.

Perhaps the people have come to know my name and face from that.

Akira: (Performing at a palace? That's amazing. I always get to hear Rustica's playing for free...)

(But it sounds like it's actually worth a lot of money.)


Spot Memories (1)

Rustica: Down this road, there's a rather delicious restaurant, where you may only enter as a pair.

Be they a close friend, a precious family member, a strict co-worker, or an intimate lover—your partner may be anyone.

Ever since its grand opening one hundred years ago, I've dropped by now and then when it suits me. Murr and Shylock know of it as well.

Would you like to go together, Master Sage? I'd love your company.

Akira: Oh, I really want to try it! Is there a particular reason why we can only go in pairs?

Rustica: It may come as a surprise to you on first visit, but they have a rather fascinating way of dining there, you see.

When you first enter the restaurant, you and your partner split into two roles: the "mother bird" and the "baby bird". The latter then has their sight, voice, and strength sealed with magic.

Akira: Uh...?

Rustica: Well, more accurately, the "baby bird" role is only allowed to tweet and chirp like the real thing.

The restaurant doesn't have a menu; rather, the mother bird orders a dish to the baby bird's liking from the available ingredients.

And then, once the food arrives, the mother bird must feed the baby bird directly.

With only tongue and throat to enjoy the flavors and no words exchanged, you may further deepen your bond with your partner. That's the idea behind this restaurant.

Akira: That's very... unique.

If it opened a hundred years ago, then that was long before Chloe was born. Who did you go with before?

Rustica: Oh, my. Now that you mention it... I think it was...

Rustica & Akira: ......

Rustica: ...Pardon me. It appears I've forgotten. The restaurant is, however, a truly lovely place.


Spot Memories (2)

Rustica: It was quite a long time ago, but there was one time when an all-wizard theater troupe performed at the national theater here.

They apparently practiced for about a hundred years. I'd been looking forward to it ever since I first heard of their performance, but it was quite a while before I could actually see it.

Akira: A hundred years?! I couldn't even imagine... What was the show about?

Rustica: About a great wizard, and the rise and fall of a clan.

The title was "The Life and Times of the Illustrious Wizard Donato Rai".

Akira: Like a heroic epic... A performance by wizards seems like it would be very flashy.

Rustica: Indeed. They use magic in the performance as well, transforming the entire theater at dizzying speeds with every scene.

Even the audience is involved—clothing may change, chairs may float in the air, some people may be forcibly put to sleep.

Then, in place of applause, there are fireworks. It's so much fun that time just flies by...

And by the end of the show, a year has already passed.

Akira: What?!

Rustica: One act averages about three months, so it took a whole year to finish. It was quite the lengthy feature, but truly a splendid experience.

I've already bought my tickets for the next show, but I hear it's an even bigger production than the last. They've planned rehearsals for several hundred years.


Spot Memories (3)

Chloe: This city was the first place Rustica and I went after beginning our journey together.

I'd heard people talk about the City of Affluence before, but I wasn't even really allowed to leave the house...

I didn't know a place like this existed right next to where I lived.

For a few days, I felt like I was dreaming, like Rustica's magic hadn't worn off even though I was standing in the square with my own two feet.

Akira: This city is really ostentatious, even for someone like me from another world. It'd probably be even more shocking after being shut in for so long...

Chloe: Yeah......

The first place Rustica took me was to a high-class tailor. They gave me a whole new set of clothes.

It was a suit made of the kind of luxurious fabric we'd never even touched at my parents' shop, and a pair of shoes so expensive you could sell them for two years' worth of food.

So y'know, Master Sage. I tried really hard not to close my eyes.

It was silly, but I was worried that if I let my eyelids fall for just a moment, I'd wake up from the dream...

Akira: ......

Chloe: So! It might've all felt like a dream, but I remember it all really clearly!

The tailor's careful work, the taste of the food at the first restaurant we visited, even the scent of the bouquet we bought on the way...

I even remember what Rustica and I talked about over the first cup of tea he poured for me at the inn we were staying at.

Akira: You have a lot of important memories here, huh.

Chloe: Yup! Ehehe...

A lot of memorable things happened while Rustica and I were traveling together, but this city is kinda special.