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Falling in Love with the Captive Noce - Episode 2
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Akira: Where did that come from…? Did someone play a prank on us?
Mithra: It's Bradley.
Mitile & Akira: Huh?
Mithra: I sense Bradley's magical presence from that cork. He must have used magic to send it flying all the way here.
Figaro: I can tell from its scent that it was used as a wine stopper.
Nero, what do you make of this?
Nero: ... (grimace) Why me...
Figaro: Because you're a chef. I wondered if it’s a secret code that only the pros would understand.
Nero: ... Uhh, that's...
To be honest, it’s just a plain ol' wine cork to me…
Nero rested his hand on his chin as he spoke. He spent a moment in thought, then he lifted his gaze.
Nero: How about we show this to Murr?
[ Murr arrives at the cafeteria. ]
Murr: I got it! You want me to read the memory of this cork, right?
Akira: Yes, that's right! We'd like you to help us with your magic, Murr. And it'd be great if we could find out what Bradley's been up to...
Murr: Leave it to me!
« eanul rambul » !
My heart raced faster the brighter the cork grew. I held my hands clasped in front of me in silent prayer.
Akira: (Bradley, please be safe...!)
Murr: ... Woah-oh!
Nero: ...! Murr, you see somethin'?
Mitile: Is Bradley san doing alright?
Murr: Yup, he looks hale and hearty to me!
Mitile: That's g—
Murr: He's with a woman!
Nero & Akira: A wo—
Figaro: Really now.
Snow: So that’s how it is!
Mithra: Wait, what's going on?
Murr: There's this biiiig grand beautiful room, and the only people in it are Bradley and her!
They're sitting so close to each other, their shoulders are touching! Seems like they're having a nice chat!
Rustica: My word. A secret rendezvous, perhaps?
Figaro: Uh-huh. And before we proceed any further, how about we shield Mitile and Kenja sama's ears first?
Snow: Mhm, mhm. Ah, that reminds me, Bradley chan's 600 years old already. That does happen, it sure does happen!
In that case, let's take this as a sign that he won't be back anytime soon. It can't be helped! Let us allow him to enjoy the follies of youth that he was deprived of—
[ No BGM ]
Murr: His partner has long navy blue hair and golden eyes!
Snow & Figaro: ... Huh?
Murr: There's a giant scar on her face!
Figaro & Snow & Nero: !
[ BGM starts ]
Snow: Ah...
Figaro: She's…
Slowly but surely, Snow and Figaro's expressions grew grim. Nero swallowed his sigh.
Akira: Might I ask if you all have an idea of who she is...?
Mithra: Isn't that woman Mia?
Snow: Mithra chan, so you think so too?
Mitile: Mia? Is she someone Mithra san and the rest of you are acquainted with?
Snow: Indeed. Mia is a witch of the North. She's one of the strong and powerful ones, having lived more than a thousand years on those lands.
In terms of pure magical strength, I believe she's a step above Bradley.
Akira: She's stronger than Bradley?! Doesn't that mean she's a really strong witch?
But why would someone like her spend time together with Bradley...?
Mithra: Those two used to often make attempts on each other's lives in the past. It might be no different this time around. She might intend to kill Bradley.
Akira & Mitile: What!?
Mithra: Mia is temperamental. She was on bad terms with Tiletta too.
Mitile: N-No way...
Nero: .........
It was all rather disquieting, and I could feel my chest tense up.
She was someone who turned Snow and Figaro's expressions grim.
She was a witch stronger than Bradley.
And she worried both Nero and Mitile.
Figaro: ... I don't think we should call this 'a secret rendezvous'.
We can’t waste time. Let's get Bradley out of there before the situation takes a turn for the worse.
[ Mia's Castle ]
Bradley: (... It ought to arrive ‘bout now, I hope.)
(I couldn’t send anything more than a wine cork, not without Mia noticing... Well, as long as it gets to Murr, Kenja will figure out what’s going on.)
Mia: ... Bradley. How bold of you, to let your attention stray so easily.
Bradley: Haha, my bad. It's been a while since I've had time to take in this beautiful snowy landscape. It really captures the heart, y'know? Anyway, did you have something to tell me?
Mia: No, it's just that your glass is empty. I'll pour you some more wine.
[ Mia refills Bradley's glass. ]
Bradley: If it’s a lady like yourself pouring the liquor, I’ll keep drinking.
Mia: Don't get ahead of yourself.
Bradley: It's nothin' but the truth.
Oh, that scar of yours is gnarly as always.
Mia: .........
Bradley: So... ain’t this a twist of fate?
Mia: ... What are you playing at?
Bradley: In the past, we'd start an all-out fight for each other's lives all those times our paths crossed... No, wait, you deliberately came after me, but still.
Now, you invite me to your castle with all the hospitality of a gracious host. That's a real far cry from what it used to be like before.
You trying to sucker me into letting my guard drop? Biding your time until you spot an opening to gobble me right up?
Mia: ......... ... Correct, you are my prey.
I shan’t let anyone else sink their claws into you.
[ Northern Country - Open Plains ]
Mithra: « arsim »
Akira: …!
I stepped through the transpatial door, and standing before me was a dauntingly huge white castle that looked like it was made out of snow.
It was no less wondrous than the beautiful, snowy landscape around us.
We were buffeted by strong winds that threatened to slice us open, and if it weren't for Snow's magic, I'd have lost my life in an instant.
Akira: So this is where Bradley is...!
Snow: Indeed. From what Murr described, it sounds like Bradley is being held captive in Mia's castle.
It’s unfortunate this was too short notice for us to have brought White along — it seems like we have sufficient firepower though.
Figaro: ... Mitile. We'll be heading into the depths of a castle belonging to a fearsome witch of the North. Are you really alright with that?
It's going to be filled with danger, and no one can say for certain what'll happen in there.
Mitile: I'm fine! I'd be lying if I said I wasn't just a little bit scared, but I'm too busy being worried about Bradley san to worry about my fears.
And... if I always play it safe, I'll never be able to grow stronger.
I know I've still got a lot of work to do when it comes to magical strength, but I'd like to do what I can to help get Bradley san back to safety!
Figaro: ... Well said. But you shouldn't push yourself too hard, okay? Listen to what sensei tells you—
Mithra: It's okay. I'm here.
Mitile: Mithra san!
Figaro: .........
Mithra: Mitile can grow stronger than this. It's a good thing for me if he does.
All you have to do is not die.
Mitile: Got it! I'll do my best!
Figaro: ... Very well. I'll entrust him to you, Mithra.
Mitile: ... Figaro sensei…
Akira: (What a surprise, considering it's Mithra. All this while he's been adamant that Mitile stay as far as he can from harm)
(And in sharp contrast, Figaro immensely hated the idea of Mitile coming along with us...)
Snow: Dear Figaro, we understand why you're worried, but... as long as you and I are here, I believe we can avoid any worst case scenarios.
Figaro: Well, be that as it may...
Rustica: If our Figaro sensei's that wary of what lies ahead, then our adventure is about to be a rather exhilarating one.
Kenja sama, are you ready and willing?
Akira: Yes, I am. I think it might have been better for me to stay back at the Magical Manor, but...
I can’t just stand idly by when Bradley's in a pinch! I'll do my best to contribute to his rescue!
Rustica: Fufu. Bradley will be overjoyed by the warm homecoming he’ll receive from us. Don't you agree, Nero?
Nero: Yeah... Totally…
Nero: .........
Akira: (I knew it, Nero's also worried about Bradley. He seems a little bit different from usual...)
At that moment, out of the corner of my eye, I saw something large and white soar past us overhead.
Murr: Here I go~!
It was a giant snowball. It headed straight for Mia's castle, streaking through the crisp air like a comet.
Akira: What. Murr, did you throw that?
Murr: I sure did!
Akira: B-But why!?
Murr: It's all in the name of science.
The next thing I knew, the giant snowball that had hurtled towards the castle rebounded and exploded.
It seemed like it had made contact with something.
Murr: Of course there's a barrier. And it's a stroooong one to boot! What should we do next?
Mithra: That's no matter when I'm here.
Mithra: « arsim »
A transpatial door appeared where Mithra extended his hand upright.
Murr immediately peeked into the tiny gap of the open door. He snapped his fingers in an exclamation.
Murr: There's no mistaking it! That's the room from the cork’s memory!
Rustica: That's our Mithra for you. It doesn't matter how strong the barrier is. His door simply opens right in.
Snow: Oh, what's possessed you? You're being quite proactive today.
Mithra: Well, yes...
It's a pretty good deal, to get Bradley's mana stone and the mana stone of a northern witch too. There's no doubting the quality of stone Mia will produce.
Now, will you all please move?
[ Mia’s Castle ]
We all passed through the door that Mithra rushed us into. The door opened into a spacious, lavishly decorated hall that matched the regal exterior of the castle.
The windows reached as high as the ceilings, where sparkling chandeliers hung aloft. Plush sofas were accentuated by colourful and tasteful décor, and my eyes continued to travel until I saw...
Bradley: Y'all...
Akira: Bradley!
Bradley was seated right at the end of a table laden with a decadent spread of food and wine. He was clad in a luxurious outfit, and he looked like he was having a leisurely time.
He wore his hair in a style I had never seen him wear; it was bold, with his bangs swept high, and it made him look incredibly roguish and alluring, in a way that immediately captured everyone’s attention.
Akira: What a relief, you're safe... (squeak) Wha—!?
There was barely any time to be relieved.
My hands flew to my face at the sight that unfolded before me, and Mitile did the same too.
Next to Bradley was a lady in a dress as black as midnight.
Her hair was long and it curved around the lines of her body. Her golden eyes were focused on Bradley.
She gently slid her hand, fair as snow, onto his cheek.
Mitile: (blushing) That's definitely for grown-ups!
Figaro: Alright, alright, we get it. Sorry to disturb you right when it was about to get good.
Snow: Ohoho. I see we haven’t reached the blood and carnage stage yet.
Snow and Figaro stepped up, ready to protect us.
The lady rose to her feet, her murderous intent as clear as day.
Mia: ... You cretins...!
Akira: !
With a large rumble, a blizzard started to swirl within the confines of the hall.
The sheer cold that assaulted me robbed me of my breath.
Nero: « adnodis omnis »
Rustica: « amorest viesse »
Their voices resonated with each other, turning into warmth that permeated my body.
Rustica: Kenja sama, are you alright?
Akira: I-I think I am...! I'm glad I had both of you here, thank you.
Nero: ... This Mia, she's beyond pissed. Well, I guess that is what happens when you sneak into someone's territory...
The woman that Nero called Mia stood in the midst of the howling blizzard. The blizzard was fierce, but fiercer yet was the murderous aura emanating from her.
Her long hair, the colour of sky before dawn, billowed in the icy winds.
I could see she had scars on her forehead, underneath her hair. They looked like burn scars.
next episode ⭢
Akira: Where did that come from…? Did someone play a prank on us?
Mithra: It's Bradley.
Mitile & Akira: Huh?
Mithra: I sense Bradley's magical presence from that cork. He must have used magic to send it flying all the way here.
Figaro: I can tell from its scent that it was used as a wine stopper.
Nero, what do you make of this?
Nero: ... (grimace) Why me...
Figaro: Because you're a chef. I wondered if it’s a secret code that only the pros would understand.
Nero: ... Uhh, that's...
To be honest, it’s just a plain ol' wine cork to me…
Nero rested his hand on his chin as he spoke. He spent a moment in thought, then he lifted his gaze.
Nero: How about we show this to Murr?
[ Murr arrives at the cafeteria. ]
Murr: I got it! You want me to read the memory of this cork, right?
Akira: Yes, that's right! We'd like you to help us with your magic, Murr. And it'd be great if we could find out what Bradley's been up to...
Murr: Leave it to me!
« eanul rambul » !
My heart raced faster the brighter the cork grew. I held my hands clasped in front of me in silent prayer.
Akira: (Bradley, please be safe...!)
Murr: ... Woah-oh!
Nero: ...! Murr, you see somethin'?
Mitile: Is Bradley san doing alright?
Murr: Yup, he looks hale and hearty to me!
Mitile: That's g—
Murr: He's with a woman!
Nero & Akira: A wo—
Figaro: Really now.
Snow: So that’s how it is!
Mithra: Wait, what's going on?
Murr: There's this biiiig grand beautiful room, and the only people in it are Bradley and her!
They're sitting so close to each other, their shoulders are touching! Seems like they're having a nice chat!
Rustica: My word. A secret rendezvous, perhaps?
Figaro: Uh-huh. And before we proceed any further, how about we shield Mitile and Kenja sama's ears first?
Snow: Mhm, mhm. Ah, that reminds me, Bradley chan's 600 years old already. That does happen, it sure does happen!
In that case, let's take this as a sign that he won't be back anytime soon. It can't be helped! Let us allow him to enjoy the follies of youth that he was deprived of—
[ No BGM ]
Murr: His partner has long navy blue hair and golden eyes!
Snow & Figaro: ... Huh?
Murr: There's a giant scar on her face!
Figaro & Snow & Nero: !
[ BGM starts ]
Snow: Ah...
Figaro: She's…
Slowly but surely, Snow and Figaro's expressions grew grim. Nero swallowed his sigh.
Akira: Might I ask if you all have an idea of who she is...?
Mithra: Isn't that woman Mia?
Snow: Mithra chan, so you think so too?
Mitile: Mia? Is she someone Mithra san and the rest of you are acquainted with?
Snow: Indeed. Mia is a witch of the North. She's one of the strong and powerful ones, having lived more than a thousand years on those lands.
In terms of pure magical strength, I believe she's a step above Bradley.
Akira: She's stronger than Bradley?! Doesn't that mean she's a really strong witch?
But why would someone like her spend time together with Bradley...?
Mithra: Those two used to often make attempts on each other's lives in the past. It might be no different this time around. She might intend to kill Bradley.
Akira & Mitile: What!?
Mithra: Mia is temperamental. She was on bad terms with Tiletta too.
Mitile: N-No way...
Nero: .........
It was all rather disquieting, and I could feel my chest tense up.
She was someone who turned Snow and Figaro's expressions grim.
She was a witch stronger than Bradley.
And she worried both Nero and Mitile.
Figaro: ... I don't think we should call this 'a secret rendezvous'.
We can’t waste time. Let's get Bradley out of there before the situation takes a turn for the worse.
[ Mia's Castle ]
Bradley: (... It ought to arrive ‘bout now, I hope.)
(I couldn’t send anything more than a wine cork, not without Mia noticing... Well, as long as it gets to Murr, Kenja will figure out what’s going on.)
Mia: ... Bradley. How bold of you, to let your attention stray so easily.
Bradley: Haha, my bad. It's been a while since I've had time to take in this beautiful snowy landscape. It really captures the heart, y'know? Anyway, did you have something to tell me?
Mia: No, it's just that your glass is empty. I'll pour you some more wine.
[ Mia refills Bradley's glass. ]
Bradley: If it’s a lady like yourself pouring the liquor, I’ll keep drinking.
Mia: Don't get ahead of yourself.
Bradley: It's nothin' but the truth.
Oh, that scar of yours is gnarly as always.
Mia: .........
Bradley: So... ain’t this a twist of fate?
Mia: ... What are you playing at?
Bradley: In the past, we'd start an all-out fight for each other's lives all those times our paths crossed... No, wait, you deliberately came after me, but still.
Now, you invite me to your castle with all the hospitality of a gracious host. That's a real far cry from what it used to be like before.
You trying to sucker me into letting my guard drop? Biding your time until you spot an opening to gobble me right up?
Mia: ......... ... Correct, you are my prey.
I shan’t let anyone else sink their claws into you.
[ Northern Country - Open Plains ]
Mithra: « arsim »
Akira: …!
I stepped through the transpatial door, and standing before me was a dauntingly huge white castle that looked like it was made out of snow.
It was no less wondrous than the beautiful, snowy landscape around us.
We were buffeted by strong winds that threatened to slice us open, and if it weren't for Snow's magic, I'd have lost my life in an instant.
Akira: So this is where Bradley is...!
Snow: Indeed. From what Murr described, it sounds like Bradley is being held captive in Mia's castle.
It’s unfortunate this was too short notice for us to have brought White along — it seems like we have sufficient firepower though.
Figaro: ... Mitile. We'll be heading into the depths of a castle belonging to a fearsome witch of the North. Are you really alright with that?
It's going to be filled with danger, and no one can say for certain what'll happen in there.
Mitile: I'm fine! I'd be lying if I said I wasn't just a little bit scared, but I'm too busy being worried about Bradley san to worry about my fears.
And... if I always play it safe, I'll never be able to grow stronger.
I know I've still got a lot of work to do when it comes to magical strength, but I'd like to do what I can to help get Bradley san back to safety!
Figaro: ... Well said. But you shouldn't push yourself too hard, okay? Listen to what sensei tells you—
Mithra: It's okay. I'm here.
Mitile: Mithra san!
Figaro: .........
Mithra: Mitile can grow stronger than this. It's a good thing for me if he does.
All you have to do is not die.
Mitile: Got it! I'll do my best!
Figaro: ... Very well. I'll entrust him to you, Mithra.
Mitile: ... Figaro sensei…
Akira: (What a surprise, considering it's Mithra. All this while he's been adamant that Mitile stay as far as he can from harm)
(And in sharp contrast, Figaro immensely hated the idea of Mitile coming along with us...)
Snow: Dear Figaro, we understand why you're worried, but... as long as you and I are here, I believe we can avoid any worst case scenarios.
Figaro: Well, be that as it may...
Rustica: If our Figaro sensei's that wary of what lies ahead, then our adventure is about to be a rather exhilarating one.
Kenja sama, are you ready and willing?
Akira: Yes, I am. I think it might have been better for me to stay back at the Magical Manor, but...
I can’t just stand idly by when Bradley's in a pinch! I'll do my best to contribute to his rescue!
Rustica: Fufu. Bradley will be overjoyed by the warm homecoming he’ll receive from us. Don't you agree, Nero?
Nero: Yeah... Totally…
Nero: .........
Akira: (I knew it, Nero's also worried about Bradley. He seems a little bit different from usual...)
At that moment, out of the corner of my eye, I saw something large and white soar past us overhead.
Murr: Here I go~!
It was a giant snowball. It headed straight for Mia's castle, streaking through the crisp air like a comet.
Akira: What. Murr, did you throw that?
Murr: I sure did!
Akira: B-But why!?
Murr: It's all in the name of science.
The next thing I knew, the giant snowball that had hurtled towards the castle rebounded and exploded.
It seemed like it had made contact with something.
Murr: Of course there's a barrier. And it's a stroooong one to boot! What should we do next?
Mithra: That's no matter when I'm here.
Mithra: « arsim »
A transpatial door appeared where Mithra extended his hand upright.
Murr immediately peeked into the tiny gap of the open door. He snapped his fingers in an exclamation.
Murr: There's no mistaking it! That's the room from the cork’s memory!
Rustica: That's our Mithra for you. It doesn't matter how strong the barrier is. His door simply opens right in.
Snow: Oh, what's possessed you? You're being quite proactive today.
Mithra: Well, yes...
It's a pretty good deal, to get Bradley's mana stone and the mana stone of a northern witch too. There's no doubting the quality of stone Mia will produce.
Now, will you all please move?
[ Mia’s Castle ]
We all passed through the door that Mithra rushed us into. The door opened into a spacious, lavishly decorated hall that matched the regal exterior of the castle.
The windows reached as high as the ceilings, where sparkling chandeliers hung aloft. Plush sofas were accentuated by colourful and tasteful décor, and my eyes continued to travel until I saw...
Bradley: Y'all...
Akira: Bradley!
Bradley was seated right at the end of a table laden with a decadent spread of food and wine. He was clad in a luxurious outfit, and he looked like he was having a leisurely time.
He wore his hair in a style I had never seen him wear; it was bold, with his bangs swept high, and it made him look incredibly roguish and alluring, in a way that immediately captured everyone’s attention.
Akira: What a relief, you're safe... (squeak) Wha—!?
There was barely any time to be relieved.
My hands flew to my face at the sight that unfolded before me, and Mitile did the same too.
Next to Bradley was a lady in a dress as black as midnight.
Her hair was long and it curved around the lines of her body. Her golden eyes were focused on Bradley.
She gently slid her hand, fair as snow, onto his cheek.
Mitile: (blushing) That's definitely for grown-ups!
Figaro: Alright, alright, we get it. Sorry to disturb you right when it was about to get good.
Snow: Ohoho. I see we haven’t reached the blood and carnage stage yet.
Snow and Figaro stepped up, ready to protect us.
The lady rose to her feet, her murderous intent as clear as day.
Mia: ... You cretins...!
Akira: !
With a large rumble, a blizzard started to swirl within the confines of the hall.
The sheer cold that assaulted me robbed me of my breath.
Nero: « adnodis omnis »
Rustica: « amorest viesse »
Their voices resonated with each other, turning into warmth that permeated my body.
Rustica: Kenja sama, are you alright?
Akira: I-I think I am...! I'm glad I had both of you here, thank you.
Nero: ... This Mia, she's beyond pissed. Well, I guess that is what happens when you sneak into someone's territory...
The woman that Nero called Mia stood in the midst of the howling blizzard. The blizzard was fierce, but fiercer yet was the murderous aura emanating from her.
Her long hair, the colour of sky before dawn, billowed in the icy winds.
I could see she had scars on her forehead, underneath her hair. They looked like burn scars.
next episode ⭢