#c: arthur | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

rt2417 · 9 months

Text

[Hymn of Serata on the Requiem Night] Chapter 1

Bradley: Even at a feast, yer still a damn miserable son of a bitch.

Directory ✧ Next →

Location: Forest

Lennox: Kenja-sama's handkerchief, it's quite to hard to find, isn't it.

Akira: Yes. I thought I dropped it while I was walking around this area earlier, but…

I feel a little sorry for having you keep me company for so long.

Lennox: Please do not worry about it. After all, everyone loses things sometimes.

Together with Lennox, who encouraged me, we advance further into the gloomy forest.

As the chilly night wind passes us by, Lennox suddenly lifts his head.

Akira: What’s the matter, Lennox; did you perhaps find something?

Lennox: No, I thought I heard a sound. Like the sound of a bell…

Akira: It’s true! It’s coming from deep in the thicket over there, don’t you think?

Lennox: Someone may possibly be out here. Still, it’s already quite late…

Akira: You’re right… Why don’t we take a little look around?

Mixed in with our footsteps as we tread on the grass, the sound of the bell is long and thin, and continues to echo on as if trying to lure someone in.

After a bit of walking, a sweet aroma suddenly tickles my nose.

Akira: (Smells nice…)

As if enticed by the aroma, I look ahead past Lennox’s broad back.

In a clearing with few trees, a bonfire's flames flicker. Standing quietly in front of it, is a figure cloaked in black.

Faust: ……

Lennox: Faust-sama?

Faust: Kenja and Lennox… As expected, there was a hint of your presence.

In a place like this, what is it that you want?

Akira: No…

Faust speaks quietly, as he always does, but I suddenly find myself at a loss for words.

The flickering flames contrast against the moonlight; his beautiful profile looks pale and somewhat otherworldly amidst it all.

Lennox: …Faust-sama. In addition to you, was there anyone else here?

There’s empty liquor bottles, almost as if someone was having a banquet.

Akira: Ah, it’s true. The bonfire is surrounded by plenty of alcohol and fruit. There’s also corolla flowers lined up…

Faust: No… I’ve been alone the entire time.

The moon is clearly visible tonight. I thought I’d have a drink by myself while gazing up at it.

Akira: Eh…?

It feels a bit unexpected to hear those words come from Faust.

Even as Faust speaks with a light casual tone, a hint of self-deprecation flickers on his face, as he slowly looks upward.

Up in the night sky, the enormous Great Calamity looms above, threatening to engulf us.

Faust: Looking up at the moon… makes me feel uncomfortable, like I have an ache in the depths of my heart.

That’s why, with this as a side dish, I thought I’d direct a complaint or two toward the Calamity.

That’s it, there’s no more to it.

Lennox: ……

Bradley: Hmph. If that’s what yer havin’ as a side dish, it’ll only make the booze taste like shit.

Even at a feast, yer still a damn miserable son of a bitch.

Akira: ……!

I turn around at the sound of the familiar voice coming from behind us. Faust also gazes deep into the forest, where it originates from.

Lennox: Bradley… Could it be, you were blown away by a sneeze again?

Bradley: Well, that’s about the gist of it. ’M not very happy ’bout it.

Bradley says this nonchalantly, as he steps out of the woods with ease.

Bradley: Y’all got a depressing look on yer faces. I can get why you feel such resentment, though.

I was hurt too, but the eastern curse worker was almost killed by that damn moon.

Faust: That’s right. However, ultimately I didn’t end up dying.

Faust mumbles as he casts his eyes downward, then he abruptly fumbles with his sleeve to retrieve something.

Faust: Come to think of it, I picked this up earlier. Is it yours?

Akira: Oh, my handkerchief…! Thank you so much, I was searching for this.

Lennox: I’m glad you were able to successfully find it.

Akira: Yes! Lennox you too, thanks so much for keeping me company while searching for it.

Faust: In that case, if you’ve finished with your business you shouldn’t linger for long. Please head back to the Wizard Manor as soon as possible…

Bradley: Huh, there’s some good booze ‘ere.

Interrupting Faust, Bradley steps forward before the bonfire. He quickly crouches down to judge the bottles of alcohol lined up.

Faust: Oi, don’t go rummaging. There’s no liquor here for thieves.

Bradley: It’s good, ain’t it? If ya went to the extent to pull all this out, it’ll be hard to bring it back. I’ll lend a helpin’ hand.

Akira: Ah… Well, I’ll help you tidy up too. I think we’re all about finished for the day.

While saying this, I reach for the items scattered around me. Then, Faust’s sharp voice rings out.

Faust: Stop, don’t touch that!

Akira: Ah, I’m sorry…!

In response to the unexpected menacing look, my shoulders jumped. Faust looks taken aback, his words muddled.

Faust: Apologies… I didn’t mean to frighten you. It’s just that you shouldn’t carelessly touch a wizard’s tools like that.

Particularly when it comes to things that a curse worker like me handles.

Lennox: …Here, let me help.

The night wind is getting colder, so please head back first, Kenja-sama and Bradley. We’ll return soon.

As he speaks, a strong cold wind blows between the two of us. Bradley scratches the tip of his nose and grumbles.

Bradley: Shit, that was close. Hell, I don’t wanna be sent flyin’ again.

C’mon, Kenja. The bar at the Wizard Manor is a way better place to drink booze in than this shithole. Come ‘n get a drink with me.

Akira: O-Of course. Well then, I’ll take your word for it… Faust, Lennox. Good night, I’ll see you tomorrow.

Faust: Ah. Good night.

Lennox: Have a good night.

As we exchange salutations, Bradley, with one hand in his pocket, magically pulls out his broom.

He yanks me on by the scruff of my neck, and once I settle behind him with my legs crossed, we’re immediately lifted off the ground.

As the wind blows, I can faintly hear the sound of the bell from somewhere beneath us.

Location: Manor

And so, a few days later we’re presented with an unexpected request.

Arthur: Pure white hands creeping through the sky?

Cock Robin: Yes… It seems to be an anomaly happening in a village on the outskirts of the Central Country.

Once night falls, I was told that multiple hands emerge and creep all throughout the area.

Riquet: Are you saying that there’s no face or body, that it’s just hands?

Akira: That’s rather unsettling. It’s almost like a different sort of scary than ghosts and the like.

Rustica: When it comes to only having hands, we need to think over how to communicate with them. Rather than idle chit chat, perhaps we should use music.

Rutile: Hm, that sounds lovely! Even if you only have fingers, you can still play the piano and pluck strings.

Cain: It would surely help if they like music, wouldn’t it. Actually, what’s the situation like in the village itself?

The people gathered around to listen to the request are Rutile, Rustica, Cock Robin-san, and myself. The Central Wizards are also among us.

Cock Robin-san was originally looking for the Central Wizards and me, however, seeing Rutile and Rustica in the dining hall, he also asked them to help.

Cock Robin: It seems that the residents are so frightened by the strange sight that they’ve withdrawn into their homes.

Furthermore, some residents have even left the village after rumors spread that it was a curse of sorts…

Oz: So, the hands are just wandering about then. What’s the actual harm?

Cock Robin: Um, well… According to reports sometimes they just merely float about, but other times they draw near private homes and livestock pens.

I heard that some villagers and livestock were grabbed by the shoulders and were nearly dragged straight into darkness, and such…

Cain: That’s a rather vague report.

Cock Robin: Sorry, the contents of the report were a bit ambiguous in certain places…

Arthur: Judging from his penmanship, he may have been in a state of distraught. He must’ve been frightened, but still somehow managed to send us a letter.

Rutile: In addition, it seems that the time when the anomalies began to occur was… It says that it was after the Great Calamity came.

Riquet: I see. In that case, it’s our turn.

Cain: Yeah, we should go check it out in person. It’s most likely an after effect of the Calamity. Is that alright with you, Kenja-sama?

Akira: Yes, of course. Please, allow me to accompany you all in this investigation.

Arthur: If that’s the case, we should promptly discuss a date as soon as possible.

Since this is a Central Country affair, the participants will be Cain, Riquet… and myself. I’ll keep my identity concealed though.

Rustica: Then let me also accompany you. The wandering hands may possibly be looking for a potential dance partner.

Even for me, it’s not every day that I get the chance to have someone other than myself take my hand.

Rutile: I’m coming too! Since we just had the pleasure of talking together, I would be happy to help in any way I can.

Arthur: Thank you. It'll be reassuring having the both of you. Oz-sama, what about you?

Akira: (Ah, right… Arthur is worried about Oz’s wounds from the Calamity, since the anomaly occurs at night.)

Oz gives a slight nod toward Arthur’s concerned look. Then slowly, he looks me in the eyes.

Oz: …There are others who are more qualified for this than I am.

Oz: When it comes to curses, there’s someone whose specialty lies in them.

Directory ✧ Next →

#s: mhyk #c: akira #c: lennox #c: faust #c: bradley #c: arthur #c: cock robin #c: riquet #c: cain #c: rustica #c: rutile #c: oz #t: event story #p: chapter

8 notes · View notes

euphememoon · 1 year

Text

“¿Querías estar sole?” ( @acrthurweasley )

“Oh, no. No te preocupes.” Elevó la mirada de su té, al que probablemente había estado mirando fijamente mientras pensaba y se preocupaba por demasiadas cosas a la vez, como siempre. “Puedes sentarte... Si quieres.” No había mucho espacio en la cafetería, y Mary ocupaba una mesa con varias sillas vacías. Además, no le importaba la compañía.

#c: arthur #o/

5 notes · View notes

dvstbvnnies · 2 years

Text

* / open : arthur plot : here, arthur is muse a! open to : m/f/enby

“what is this, then?” arthur asks. “because i thought maybe we could be something really special, but every time i try to get closer, you shove me away. i’m not asking you to marry me or anything. i’m literally just asking you to a family dinner.”

#c: arthur #indie rp #open rp #indie bi rp

12 notes · View notes

kohaive · 1 year

Text

FIVE.

#wow i never tagged this one properly apparently #star in the sky #sketchbook #c: arthur #u: court records

2 notes · View notes

howredemptionwaswon · 1 year

Text

“How am I supposed to tell Arthur, Abigail? I can’t be pregnant. Not like this. I’m going to be thirty-five before the year ends. That doctor can’t be right. Arthur don’t want an old maid for his child. It has to be a mistake.”

Abigail could barely believe her ears. How could Mary think for one single second that Arthur would be anything but HAPPY about the news they just learned? She could understand this kind of reaction if they had been talking about someone like John ─ well at least the way he used to be when the gang was still together.

She had been preparing for this conversation ever since Mary asked her to take a trip into Blackwater with her to see the doctor. At first, she thought something was wrong with Mary, but soon enough she let her in on the secret. Honestly, Abigail was over the moon happy about the news. There was NOTHING in the world quite like motherhood.

“ That ain’t even true. I don’t see a man who carried your pictures around for years bein’ anythin’ but happy. That man loves you with everything he is. “ She tried to reassure Mary. “ And I don’t think three different tests are all gonna be wrong. “ She couldn’t help but smirk a little about how Mary had insisted they redo the test so many times. “ Listen, you’re gonna be a great mother, and Arthur, well he’s gonna be a great father. I couldn’t tell you how many times he went out of his way to do things with Jack when John wouldn’t. I think it’s just a case of nerves makin’ you overreact. “

Abigail could understand though. While most women like herself gave birth at an earlier age that didn’t shake the UNEASY feeling she had. John was still young and unsure of what he wanted at the time. She knew for a fact that Arthur wouldn’t take off as John had. Plus Abigail would be there every step of the way to help Mary through it all.

Mary could only nod along to what Abigail said. It all made sense. Arthur would never leave her. After all, Mary left him. They’d been young and in love, and Mary didn’t believe they could co-exist with such different lives. He proved her wrong, and in the end, they found their way back together, and it was like they never stopped loving each other. The pieces were picked back up, and they eventually became husband and wife. They couldn’t be any happier, but neither expected anything like this to occur. Arthur’s only child was killed long before they met, and Mary’s baby brother was practically her son whom she raised since their mother died when their father became a drunken gambler who cared more for himself than his own family. They doted on Jack like any uncle and aunt would, but to have their own child was simply remarkable and unbelievable. It was like a dream. In fact, Mary fainted in the clinic upon hearing the news. Poor Abigail had her hands full of her that day.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you, Abigail,” Mary told her as she took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. Out of everyone in Dutch’s gang, she always liked Abigail the best. At first, she was taken aback by her role as the gang’s former prostitute, but she found the woman to be quick-witted, smart, and friendly to talk to. She didn’t make Mary feel like an outcast like the other girls had. And ever since then, she felt closest to Abigail, the one she could confide in most, so it was no surprise that she asked her to accompany her to Blackwater.

As they made their way to the carriage, with her arm linked with Abigail’s, she said, “I’m nervous and happy. I shouldn’t care what other people are gonna think about me being a mother so late in life. I should only care about what Arthur thinks.”

But how to break the news to him? Over a nice dinner? Or just bluntly? Too bad she couldn’t ask Abigail’s advice on that, seeing as how Jack’s conception and birth was a messy situation. Poor Arthur having to be present for all that drama must’ve been a headache.

“Should we buy anything else from the general store besides what the doctor gave me?” Mary asked. “Or you think we’re good for now?”

Abigail guessed running around with a bunch of outlaws helped her develop a thicker skin. It wasn’t easy hearing all the little whispers that would float around about who Jack’s daddy was. Everyone had a part to play and she guessed being a prostitute was the hand she had been DEALT. Long before she even got pregnant with Jack those days had ended for her. Despite the whispers, she knew who Jack’s daddy was. One thing she learned being in that gang was either you learned how to stick up for yourself and not take anyone’s shit or you ended up the ass of everyone’s JOKES and WHISPERS. She stuck up for what she believed in and no one could fault her for that.

From the start Abigail always liked Mary. While she wasn’t like herself or any of the other ladies in the gang there was something about her that changed Arthur. Arthur wasn’t the same RUTHLESS CARELESS man when Mary had been part of his life. She made Arthur a better person and she wasn’t the only one who noticed that. She once overheard Dutch talking to Hosea about how he needed to talk with Mary’s father. Surprisingly it wasn’t long after that when Mary and Arthur started having troubles in their relationship. She knew it had been Dutch’s doing.

” What are friends for? “ Abigail smiled reaching over to place her other hand over Mary’s. ” I think I’m as excited about this as you are. “ She would laugh because it was well past time for Arthur and Mary to have a family of their own.

” See there, you’re learning already. Arthur and that baby are the only things you should be worried about. If someone’s got a problem with you having a baby then that’s on them. They ain’t the one having it so it’s no business of theirs. “ Oh, Abigail would LOVE to hear someone say something ill about it in her presence. She would bet they wouldn’t be doing it a second time.

Once they reached the carriage she helped Mary step up and then she followed suit behind her. ” I think we’re good for now. He gave you what he believes you need. If he wants to add anything to it he will on our next visit to him. “ Abigail knew a few TRIPS and TRICKS of her own since she had gone through this with Jack. She knew all the best tea blends for cramping and cravings. ” That reminds me, have you had any weird cravings yet? “

Abigail took the reins and gave them a crack setting the horses to take them home. ” Have you thought about how you’re gonna tell him? “ She asked once they made it out of Blackwater and were on the trail headed to their ranch. ” I used the straightforward method with John and we know how that turned out but John was a different person back then. I won’t lie, a part of me would like to be there to see Arthur’s reaction but I’ll just have to wait for you to give me the details in full. “

Mary carefully set the rifle across her lap as they rode along the trail home. Arthur taught her how to shoot, and while she wasn’t fond of using firearms, she knew it was important to protect herself and her loved ones. Fortunately, they didn’t live too far from Blackwater.

“Straight-forward will be best,” Mary decided. “I don’t like keeping secrets from Arthur. Seeing as how things didn’t turn out well with Dutch and all of them, with those secrets being kept, I don’t want to let this news linger for long. As soon as I see him, even if he’s busy, I wanna tell him.”

The more she thought about it, the more excited she became. Even when she remembered the doctor telling her of the high risks of being an older mother, it didn’t matter. Arthur had been a young father and lost Isaac and his son’s mother, Eliza. Given the circumstances, it was tough. The only worries Mary had were her age and her body. She had to do everything she could not to stress out so much. She had to be strong, for her sake and most importantly for the baby.

“I want all of you to be present if possible,” Mary informed Abigail. “Even if it’s just Arthur and you, I couldn’t be happier.”

Then she remembered Abigail’s earlier question about the strange cravings. “Hmmm… so far, I’ve been wanting chocolates, boiled eggs, and tuna fish. Just out of the blue. Does that sound strange…?”

Beecher’s Hope stirred with activity. John Marston was loading the last of the milk jugs onto the wagon. Jack was in his room reading “The Wonderful Wizard of OZ” by L. Frank Baum. Rufus ran up behind John and barked up a storm.

“What is it, boy?” John asked the family hound.

Gazing into the distance, another wagon rolled onto the property, being driven by a familiar blonde rancher.

“Miss MacFarlane,” John greeted the young woman who lived on her family’s ranch in Hennigan’s Stead. Once she was close enough, he asked her, “What do I owe the pleasure?”

“And how many times do I gotta tell you to call me ‘Bonnie?’” she scowled teasingly, a bright smile visible on her face every time she saw John. It was no secret that while she pretended to chastise him here and there, she had a bit of a crush on him.

Pulling up alongside his wagon, she parked next to him and hopped down from her seat. “We have extra grains and decided to donate some to you and your family. Old Farmer’s Almanac said it’ll be a brutal winter this year, so you might as well stock up while the weather’s still in our favor.”

John couldn’t believe it. He was quite grateful for this donation, and while his family wasn’t struggling, they could always save provisions. “Miss MacFarlane, I can’t thank you enough. Lemme get some extra hands to help us unload. Uncle! Hey, Uncle!”

He went in search of the old man, and it didn’t take him long to find the old bastard drunk and passed out under a tree.

“That son of a bitch,” John muttered under his breath. “No good and useless as always. What else should I have expected.”

While Abigail wasn’t actively holding a gun in hand, she had a revolver at her side. She HATED that thing and knew how much trouble the guys got into swinging those things around. John however insisted she carry the DREADED THING with her anytime she was away from the ranch. He even took her out several times teaching her how to aim it behind the ranch. Admittedly, she got pretty good at popping cans off the fence line.

“ I know that business with Dutch wasn’t easy for Arthur or John. He was like a father to them. Much like how Hosea was like mine. But you’re right, keeping secrets ain’t a good thing ─ even if it’s a good kind of secret. ” This was the kind of news she knew Arthur would have wanted to share with Dutch and Hosea but that simply couldn’t happen now. God rest his soul, Abigail missed Hosea something terrible.

“ Not far now. ” Abigail nodded in front of them, knowing they only had a few more turns before heading down the stretch of road leading down to the farm. Reaching up with one hand she wrapped her scarf a little more around her neck. Seemed like each day was getting a little colder than the last. She’s heard the talk about how this winter wasn’t supposed to be good. She believed it because she could feel it in the air.

Abigail couldn’t stop smiling. She was FLATTERED that Mary would want her and John to be present when she delivered this news to Arthur. “ Alright. Shouldn’t be too hard getting them together. If you wanna do it soon you see him then get ready cause we’re making the turn now. ” They were making the turn under the fenced archway. “ Those boys are always out and about doing something. ”

Abigail laughed. “ Doesn’t sound strange at all. When I was pregnant with Jack all I wanted to eat was chocolate and peaches. I got some good tea recipes to help calm the craving so they ain’t so bad. ”

Up in the distance, she could see a strange wagon pulled up to the farm. “ Wonder who that is? ” Abigail remarked giving the horse another crack from the reins.

Arthur was busing himself with cleaning the horse barn when he heard Rufus barking. The familiar sound of wagon wheels beating against the ground made him believe the ladies had made it back from their trip into town. Despite the slight chill in the air, he was dirty and sweaty from the work he had been doing. Shoveling horse shit wasn’t the GREATEST chore but it had to be done.

Pushing the wheel barrel out of the way and then placing the pitchfork up against the wall he stepped outside the bar and down toward the house. His eyes would narrow a bit not recognizing the wagon. He did however recognize the BLONDE who stepped away from it. Bonnie MacFarlane, boy was this going to be interesting if Abigail made it back soon.

Arthur only shook his head when John began bellowing for Uncle. That boy was never gonna learn that the old man was never going to be found when there was work to be done.

After everything that happened back with the gang Arthur would be the first person to come down hard on anyone not pulling their weight but for some ungodly known reason, he always seemed to let it slip with Uncle. Perhaps it was because of his age. Or maybe it was because SOMETIMES the old man did come in handy.

“ Marston, stop bitchin’ at him. You know it ain’t gonna change nothin’. What are you bellowin’ about anyway? ” Arthur asked as he began heading back down to where Bonnie was waiting for them. The close they seemed to get the bigger Bonnie’s smile seemed to grow.

Boy oh boy, Arthur thought as he shook his head. “ Good day to ya, Miss MacFarlane. How’s the Ranch been treatin’ ya? ” Arthur glanced over at the wagon seeing the bags of grain loaded in the back.

“Howdy, Mr. Marston!” Bonnie greeted. “Daddy gives his regards for not stopping by, but he says he looks forward to seeing you again at the ranch for another round or two of poker. He says he’s developed a new strategy to clean your pockets good this time.”

Around the same time, Abigail and Mary’s wagon arrived from the opposing end of the ranch. Rufus barked and ran over to greet them. Uncle grumbled and rolled onto his side just as they passed the tree he was beneath.

“Ladies, ladies,” he complained as he finally came about to consciousness. “Was tryin’ to sleep.”

John went over and kicked his shins. He didn’t care what Arthur said. “Get up!” he snapped. “Quit lyin’ around and be of use for once.”

Mary narrowed her eyes as she realized who the new arrival was. “It’s Miss Bonnie MacFarlane.”

Bonnie, taking note of Abigail being the driver of the other wagon, offered her a polite nod, and one to Mary as well. “Hello, ladies! Just here to give your families some extra supplies our ranch had on stock. Can’t be selfish, especially with winter lookin’ to be real nasty and all. Us neighbors gotta look out for one another and all.”

Jack emerged from the house, having heard all the commotion, and approached everyone. “Hi, Ma! Hi, Aunt Mary! Welcome back! Hey, Uncle Arthur! … Oh! Hi, Miss MacFarlane!”

John came back with Uncle and was relieved to see his son. The last thing he wanted was both Arthur and Abigail getting on his case about Miss MacFarlane. Time for a distraction. “Son, go help Uncle and Miss MacFarlane put the new supplies in the barn.”

Uncle groaned. “But I’m feelin’ my lumbago kickin’ up a fuss again, John.”

Jack happily offered, “Uncle, we can make a game out of this!”

“Ohhh, the only game I play is the one involving money,” was Uncle’s huffed and annoyed response.

Bonnie tried to hide her disappointment, as she ducked her head and headed back to her wagon. She climbed back onto it, where she assisted Jack to the seat next to her, while Uncle reluctantly led the way to the barn.

“Well,” Mary replied awkwardly once their wagon stopped, and she carefully climbed down from her seat. “That was… interesting… Now’s as good a time as any to tell Arthur, don’t you think, Abigail?”

Arthur wanted to crack a joke about what Bonnie said about her father but he thought better of it since all the ladies were present. He could already tell by the look on Abigail’s face that she was none too happy to see Bonnie.

As POLITELY as she could Abigail returned the nod. “ That’s mighty kind of you. Not many people are that generous without having other motives in mind. ” And for Abigail, that was being EXTREMELY polite. She had seen the way Bonnie just lit up like a bulb whenever she was around John.

It wasn’t that she didn’t trust John because she did. It was the blonde female she didn’t EXACTLY trust. What decent woman doted over a married man? It just wasn’t right in Abigail’s book. “ I’d say looking out for one another is a good idea. ” She quickly added. The whole bit of her Daddy wanting to play poker with John made her feel like John was spending ENTIRELY too much time at that Ranch.

“ Old man all you do is sleep. ” Her head turned when she heard Jack calling out to them. “ Your FATHER is right Jack honey. See if you can’t help get those supplies into the barn. ” All the while Abigail didn’t look at John. She was fuming and knew John and everyone else could see it. Her attention now turns to Uncle. “ Old man you better help or so help me you won’t be eating tonight and you’ll be sharing the barn. ”

She watched as Bonnie climbed on her wagon looking so UPSET that John wasn’t coming along with them. Lord god if there was one up above she prayed he gave her STRENGTH to bite her tongue and not ruin this moment for Arthur and Mary.

Abigail removed herself from the wagon after Mary. instead of walking over to where John was standing, she stood closer to Mary and near the back of the wagon. “ I think it’s a good time. Needs something to brighten the mood around here. ”

If looks could kill both Bonnie and John would fall over dead. Abigail was blazing mad. He’s seen that look in her eye numerous times before. Arthur also knew when she had that look to steer clear of her. He felt a little bad for John but at the same time, he could only IMAGINE the rage he’d feel if he saw someone opening crushing on Mary. He’d lose his damn mind.

Making his way around to where the ladies stood Arthur crossed his arms looking a little confused. “ Tell Arthur what exactly? ” A brow lifted now wondering what those two had gotten into while they were in town.

John realized that Bonnie was looking at Arthur and probably meant to say “Howdy, Mr. Morgan,” she instead said “Mr. Marston.” Christ help him. He needed to talk to her and be blunt about where their relationship stood. He was lovingly and happily married to Abigail. The two of them went through so much together that there couldn’t be, and wouldn’t be, anybody else he’d rather be with than her. Bonnie was a hardworking girl who’d find a decent man one day, but it wouldn’t be him. Never in a million years. He’d have to make it up to Abigail. While he loved her spitfire, he didn’t want her fuming for days on end. While she was in this mood, he wouldn’t put it past her to really put rat poison in his dinner.

Mary bit her lower lip, and offered Abigail one last look, before approaching Arthur. He smelled of sweat and barn animals, but she didn’t mind. It was all part of the job. Hard work suited him. Living on a ranch wasn’t easy, but she enjoyed every moment of it. She loved it, as she loved this man before her. She wouldn’t trade any of this for the world.

Standing in front of him, she placed her hands over his. Her nerves were shot, but she somehow maintained some composure. She peered into his eyes and stated, “Went to the doctor’s today because I hadn’t been feeling well. Turns out…”

Deep breath in, deep breath out.

“I’m with child, Arthur. We’re going to have a baby!”

She smiled and even squeezed his hands with emphasis. To think she was terrified in the beginning, but the more she talked about it, the more thrilled she was to become a mother.

Despite being called Mr. Marston Arthur knew Bonnie was talking to him. He was the one who had been playing poker with her father. Arthur had been in the process of talking to him about finding a good place where he could buy or rustle up some chickens for their own Ranch. He should probably tell Abigail that it wasn’t John that was hanging out at the MacFarlane Ranch but he’d let John SWEAT a little before he offered up that information. Hell, after that slip of the tongue from Bonnie he wasn’t even sure his fessing up that information would even HELP matters. Arthur was pretty sure that one way or another John would find a way to make it all up to Abigail.

Abigail gave Mary a smile when she looked at her and nodded her head. She PROMISED she would be there and she wasn’t moving until the news was delivered and received. Under better circumstances, she would be at John’s side right now with her arm wrapped around his ready to celebrate this news.

Arthur’s head would slightly tilt to the side when Mary took his hand into hers. What had gotten into her? She was acting a little STRANGE and it was starting to worry him, even more so when she said she had gone to the doctor because she wasn’t feeling well.

He let out a deep breath, one that expelled his ENTIRE lung capacity in one breath. He didn’t move a muscle because he was replaying those words in the back of his head. It almost felt like the wind had been knocked right out of him but not exactly in a bad way. The news had taken him by surprise. It wasn’t like the two of them hadn’t been together before and both of them were younger back then and nothing ever came from it. Maybe he had thought after Isaac’s death that he wouldn’t be blessed with another because he had failed his son.

He took a step back, speechless as he looked Mary in the eyes. She was the prettiest thing he had ever laid eyes on from the day they first met and from that day forward. Their relationship blossomed faster than a field of wildflowers. They had their bumps in the road but they found each other despite the odds against them and made things work this time. He truly loved this woman, and something about this news made his heart SOAR.

He wouldn’t admit it but he was sure she could see his eyes getting a little glossy. “ A baby ─ are you sure? ” He found himself having to ask once more to make sure he had heard her right.

After giving her hands a squeeze he pulled her in close to him. His lips found hers in a way to reassure her that this was the happiest news he had heard in some time. He was going to be a father and he couldn’t be happier about that. This is how their life should have been all along.

Once he broke away from the kiss he looked to Abigail and then to John and shouted as loud as he could, so loud he was sure Uncle, Jack, and Bonnie could hear in the barn. “ I’M GOING TO BE A DAD! ”

Mary wasn’t sure if she could contain her delight. Her spirits soared high. “Doctor performed three tests to be sure, Arthur. It’s true.”

She was then pulled against her husband’s broad chest, and they shared a kiss. She hugged him tight as joy engulfed her. This was a dream come true for them both. Yes, they were up there in age, but they didn’t care. They shouldn’t. This was what they wanted, and so what if this milestone came later in life? They had no more worries, no more dangers. They had a home, they had family and friends. Likewise, they were settled and safe. For them, this was the best time to start a family. If not now, it would be never.

When Arthur broke the kiss, Mary couldn’t help but cover her mouth with her hands and laugh with joy. His reaction was priceless. She loved every moment of this. She wished there was one of those fancy motion picture men around to capture this on film.

Not wanting to test his luck with Abigail just yet (but absolutely wanting to make things up to her as soon as possible), John decided to give his support to Arthur and Mary. First, to his brother from another mother, he threw his arms around Arthur and gave him a hearty hug.

“Couldn’t have happened to a more deserving guy,” he told him, meaning every word. “You and Mary will make a fine family, and we’re gonna help you every step of the way.”

After patting him on his back, he went over to Mary and hugged her as well, along with a polite kiss on the cheek.

“Congratulations, and don’t you worry about nothin’,” he promised her. “We’ll take real good care of you and the baby, Mary. Real happy for you.”

Over by the barn, Jack stood up when he heard Arthur yell. He dropped the sack he’d been carrying and turned to Bonnie. “Did you hear that, Miss MacFarlane?”

Bonnie nodded as she stepped down from the wagon. “Sure as the sun would rise in the morning, Jack. Looks like you’re gonna be a cousin in nine months! Let’s go congratulate the happy couple!”

“Least we’ll know who the papa is,” Uncle commented, remembering the mess that came out of Abigail’s pregnancy. Then, remembering Jack was present, he shooed the boy out of the barn ahead of him before he could ask questions. Bonnie just gave the old man a strange look, shrugged her shoulders, and followed the boy out.

So many thoughts were swimming through the back of Arthur’s mind. For a moment he thought he might have to pinch himself to make sure he wasn’t DREAMING all of this. For years he wallowed in his misery thinking Mary had left him for good and that he’d NEVER find that kind of happiness again, not like he had with her. Now here they were about to bring a new life into the world. Life was good.

Mary always had this radiant glow to her but right now she GLOWED in a way he had never seen before. He just wanted to wrap his arms around her, spin her around and then just dance all around the ranch with her. How he would love to freeze this moment in time with another one of those pictures so he would NEVER forget the look on her face right now.

Before he could even think about his next act John was embracing him in a hug. Arthur pat him on the back and gave him a nod when he pulled away. “ Thank you, brother. Gonna need all the help I can’t get. This is going to be all new to me. ” Arthur wasn’t there when Isaac was born. Yet another thing he could THANK Dutch for.

When John went to hug Arthur Abigail seized her moment. She put her arm around Mary and pulled her close against her arm. “ I know I done told ya all this before but I’m so happy for the two of you. Just like I told ya you had nothing to worry about. ” Abigail grinned.

When John started heading Mary’s way Abigail pulled away and made her way over to Arthur where she gave him a tight hug and kissed him against his cheek. “ Always told ya you were a good and deserving man, Arthur Morgan. You keep her happy, ya hear me? ”

“ Got no worries there, Abigail. Gonna do my damnedest in that department. ” Arthur commented back.

Just for a moment, Abigail forgot about their visitor. She was so happy that she just wanted to hug her husband. With her head slightly dipped she started making her way over to John.

“ Aunt Mary, Miss MacFarlane wants to congratulate you and Uncle Arthur! ” Jack could be heard shouting in the distance.

Suddenly Abigail was reminded and her face soured once more, just short of reaching John. She couldn’t handle SEEING that woman again and not going off the handle on her. “ Excuse me, I’m going to go start dinner and hunt down the rat poison. ” Abigail brushed past John and headed straight up to the house where she slammed the door closed behind her.

John’s shoulders slumped and he sighed. “Goddammit to hell,” he uttered. He couldn’t let this fester for long, and he was instantly on Abigail’s trail, following her into the house.

Before Bonnie could even call out to John, yet another wagon pulled up to the house at an alarming speed. Amos, one of Drew’s ranchers, was driving the wagon. “Miss MacFarlane!” he shouted. “We need you back on the farm! Got problems with the horses and the corral!”

Bonnie scowled. “Not again! I swear, nothing can get down when I’m not there!”

The blonde made her apologies before she told Amos she’d meet him back at the ranch. After bidding everyone goodbye and even thanking the Morgans once more, she quickly helped unload the rest of the grains, climbed back on her wagon, then made haste back to the MacFarlane homestead.

Once the dust settled, Mary couldn’t help but rub her temple. “That was… chaotic,” she couldn’t help but admit, and it was followed by a quiet laugh. “I suppose it added to the excitement of our baby announcement. I do feel a little tired, though, Arthur. I’m going to need to sit down for a bit.”

Inside the house, John caught up with Abigail. He stood before her and cut her off in her path.

“Stop, will ya? Why you gotta let Bonnie get to you like that, huh? Every time she comes around, you get riled up. What do you want me to do? Cuss her out? Shoot her?!”

Bringing a hand up, he caressed the side of her face. “Darlin’, there ain’t no other woman who could make me happy like you, and you know that. I love you.”

Awkward indeed but Arthur was more than used to John and Abigail having moments like these. He was sure that somehow John would make it up to her. That boy always seemed to find a way to get himself out of the DOG HOUSE with Abigail.

Arthur was sure to make sure Mary was clear out of the way when another wagon came barreling into the farm, kicking dust in its wake. In a way a made him feel a bit UNCOMFORTABLE. Normally when folks drove like that someone was hot on their tail and not in a good way. A hand rose to block the sun from his eyes and that’s when the man became recognized by him. Amos, he had seen him on the MacFarlane ranch many times.

Side by side with Mary he listened as the exchange was made. Taking about an evening filled with the unexpected. After Bonnie gave her apologies he nodded his head. “ No need for that. You got a ranch to tend to. Thanks again for the supplies, hope everything works out for you. ”

“ Can’t say that I miss that kind of chaos. ” Arthur was quick to agree with his wife. “ Have to disagree on that one. Don’t think anythin’ could be more excitin’ than that news. ” He would grin but would become a little more serious when she made mention of needing to sit down. “ Say no more. ” And with that Arthur placed an arm against her back and used the other to scoop up her legs to carry her bridal style. Up to the house he carried her until they were at the front deck where he sat her down in one of the chairs. Thankfully the houses were far enough apart that they couldn’t hear the yelling coming from John and Abigail.

“ Mrs. Mary Morgan I didn’t think you could find a way to make me anymore happier than I already am. ”

" Get outta my way, John. ” Abigail stopped in her tracks when John quickly cut her off.

“ Of course, I get riled up. I won’t stand for some woman comin’ to our home crushin’ all over my husband, John Marston. ” Her arms quickly snapped up to fold against her chest. “ You’re a married man and she knows it and it doesn’t stop her from tryin’ to flaunt around here tryin’ to get your attention and in front of your wife of all people. She doesn’t even try to hide it. Women like that ain’t decent, John. ” Reaching out she slugged John in the shoulder. “ Of course, I don’t want you to shoot her you big silly man. What you can do is set her straight John. Tell her can’t be no more of that behavior around here or anywhere else. If you don’t it’s only gonna encourage her. ”

She took a deep breath and exhaled after he said he loved her. It was UNFAIR when he used that method to try and make her less angry. “ Love you too John but it doesn’t change my mind none. Cause next time I’ll tell her myself. ” Stepping forward she rested her head up against John’s shoulder.

Mary held onto her husband tight as she was swept off her feet and carried back home. It brought back wonderful memories of her wedding day with Arthur. Best day of her life, really. It was everything she could ever dream about. The only person missing on the day was her mother, and as she sat on the chair beside her husband, and recovered from her dizzy spell, the harsh reality set in once more. Reaching for Arthur’s hand, she gave it a firm squeeze and didn’t let go.

“I’m so happy too, Arthur,” she told him, but her smile faltered just a bit. “I only wish Mama was here. I wished she was here for our wedding day, and I wish she was here for our baby.”

There was no shortage of support when it came to love, no question about it, but she had to take her mother’s place when it came to taking care of Jamie. She filled the void by raising the household while her daddy wasted away doing whatever he wanted, not caring about anyone but himself. She didn’t have that many years to have that motherly figure for herself. When Jamie was little, she more or less had to figure it out on her own.

“I’m fine,” she told him. “Thank you, Arthur. You know, you’re going to be the best father to our child. From what I heard from Abigail about how you took care of Jack, I already know how you’ll treat our baby.”

Her line of sight fell to their hands, and she couldn’t help but have her thumb rub small circles upon the surface of his skin. “After all, we have been quite… busy at night lately… I didn’t think… that is… I wasn’t thinking this… would happen…”

Her face grew warm as she vividly recalled how wild their bedroom activities had become. The things Arthur did to her - she was surprised the whole countryside hadn’t heard her scream!

John chuckled over Abigail’s statement. He knew she’d go through with it, too. There was no stopping her once she set her mind to something. His arms now wrapped around her slender frame, and he held her against him in a warm embrace.

“Sorry for makin’ you mad,” he murmured into her ear. “An’ I’m sorry for not bein’ there for you when you needed me the most.”

He thought back to those years when he ran away from his responsibilities of being a father to Jack. He’d been in deep denial, and he didn’t care what anybody said about him. The look of sheer anger and disappointment in Arthur’s eyes haunted him, yet he didn’t stop. He simply took off and didn’t look back. For an entire year, he went no contact and abandoned the gang. It was a miracle he was accepted back when he returned, and even then, he didn’t exactly accept his role as a father with open arms. No matter what he’d been doing for Dutch, Abigail remained with Jack: caring for him, raising him, as any loving parent should. There was a lot of growing up on his part, and a lot of questions when it came to Dutch. Thanks to Arthur, John’s eyes were opened, and he was able to become more of a more decent man.

John pulled back just far enough to rest his forehead against Abigail’s, where he peered into her eyes. “Thanks for givin’ this stupid cowpoke another chance for bein’ decent. I promise you, that you can go wild on anyone who tries to make passes at me in front of you, deal?”

Arthur leaned forward in his chair and held to her hand. He knew his wife well enough to know when something was TROUBLING her and this was one of those moments. He didn’t always have the right answers but he always tried his DAMNEDEST to ease any troubles she had in whatever way he could.

It wasn’t until she mentioned her mother that Arthur stopped to think of his mother and father along with Dutch. He could understand that kind of emotion even though he didn’t quite have the same relationship with his mother and father as Mary had with hers. “ I know you do. ”

At a very early age, he watched his mother die of sickness. It’s a memory that would FOREVER be branded into the back of his mind. Child or not, something like that NEVER goes away. Then at the age of eleven, he witnessed the hanging of his father who had been arrested for larceny. For three long years, he roamed the streets alone until Dutch and Hosea found him. Both men were father figures to him. He watched one gunned down in Valentine in cold blood and the other… he couldn’t even bring himself to think about how Dutch had betrayed him.

“ I know things haven’t always worked out the best for us, but I promise that baby, boy or girl is gonna have both a mother and father. I can also promise that I’m not goin’ to make the same mistakes they did. We’ve faced the odds and beat them. ” Arthur was sure Mary knew that if it was within his power to have her mother here she would be.

But the SERIOUS moment seemed to break when she brought up their late-night activities in the bedroom. He couldn’t help but chuckle at the thought. Being back with the woman that stole his heart after so long, well he just couldn’t help but get a little wild with her. “ Got to admit at the time of those activities a baby was the last thing on my mind. ” His eyes couldn’t help but dart over her form remembering how downright SEXY she looked each time she come undone for him. A cough would escape him as he tried to clear his mind of those thoughts for now.

“ How about we get you inside so you can rest a bit? I’m sure I could handle dinner tonight. ”

If there was one thing everyone knew about Abigail it was that once her mind was made up about something there was no telling her no. Through hell or high water, she would do WHATEVER she put her mind to. That was even more so the case when it came to John and Jack. She was FIERCELY PROTECTIVE of them both. Through blood sweat and tears she made her family work and she would be damned if some little daydreamer thought she was going to take that away from her.

“ John, it wasn’t you who made me mad. Okay, maybe a little because you should have said something to her but it was mostly her. ” Abigail admitted. Yeah, she started taking that anger out on him but that’s only because she LOVED the fool. Then she shook her head in a fashion as if she didn’t want him speaking of those times. “ That’s in the past. We promised to leave it there. ”

John didn’t have to say a word for her to know how much he beat himself up over his past actions. They were both younger back then and either one of them was planning on Jack but it had happened. Much like the news had just come for Mary and Arthur. John had to fight through his DEMONS and as painful as it had been at the time for Abigail she understood he needed that time. Things weren’t great when he finally came but the thing was he did come back and that meant something. Everything that happened was just another stepping stone that got them to the place they were standing now. It’s not something she would trade for anything. As silly and foolish as he could be at times he was her silly fool and she loved him with all her heart.

As their heads rested together she reached up and placed her palm against the side of his face. “ Thank you for comin’ back to us. But just so you know, I don’t need your permission for that. That Bonnie MacFarlane would have felt my full wrath had I not wanted to ruin Arthur and Mary’s moment. ” Her eyes caught with his almost DARINGLY before she leaned forward and kissed his lips. The kiss was soft and gentle. She could taste the mixture of whiskey and coffee on his lips and it made her long for more but she had to be mindful of Jack and remember that he could come barging through the doors at any time.

#t: unexpected news #feat: arthur mary abigail john #v: build a little home together #red dead redemption #c: arthur #c: john #c: abigail #c: mary #c: uncle #c: jack #c: bonnie macfarlane

3 notes · View notes

seraphmargot · 2 years

Text

CLOSED: for @arthur-m-hawthorne LOCATION: The Dusty Hawthorne Family Home Attic That Will Absolutely Destroy Margot’s Clothes If She’s Not Careful

Few things past the universe itself could sway Margot from her intended path in life, or her intended plans for the day. The first, was Liv Cromwell, a bat of the eyes and slight pout and Margot’s plans for the day were all but doomed, though she’d be happy to move heaven and Earth if Liv asked for it. The second, loathe as she was to admit, was her family. Though her siblings were rarely the type to demand things of her, her parents were another story. Perhaps it was a byproduct of being allowed to fly under the radar for so long while they poured all their hopes, dreams, and expectations into their eldest child. Now that the golden child had fallen from grace, in their eyes at least, the younger two siblings were now being prodded into toeing the line. At the slightest sign of the Hawthorne perfection being tarnished the troops were gathered and their tasks assigned. That’s what she told herself as she climbed into the family home’s attic to find her eldest sibling with their favorite meal in hand. Apparently he’d holed himself up in here recently, “He’s barely seen sunlight in days, I have half a mind to check if he’s been turned into one of those leeches,” their mother had bemoaned, her lips pulled up into a grimace.

As Margot took in the sight of the dusty attic, Arthur up to their arms in brittle and yellowed documents, she instantly recognized what was going on. A loud groan fell from her mouth as she placed a paper bag on the desk in front of Arthur. This was his studying hermit mode, but this was a bit more extreme than she remembered when he was cramming for an exam or reading up on new supernatural physiology reports that had come in. It was definitely more annoying. “The way Mother tells it you’re a breath away from tearing down yellow wallpaper. I take it there’s something new and absolutely boring that you’re hyper-fixating on now?”

#convo #c: arthur

1 note · View note

diioonysus · 15 days

Text

women in art: titania

526 notes · View notes

prydainroyals · 5 days

Text

Dear Alice: Part 1 of (?)

---

"Alice, I'm sorry for not contacting you sooner. I know it's been ages. You really don't need to worry about me though, I promise. There are certain things I just can't talk about, this being a military base, I'm sure you know what I mean. But I'll try to tell you what I can, OK?

It's beautiful here. Beyond the treeline and past most of the tundra, it's absolutely desolate, but breathtaking. I don't know how else to describe the magic of a white, sparkling void. It all feels so alien and yet, so familiar, especially knowing that this our planet!! Like, we're not in some sci-fi drama, this is home.

And what a home it is! Cabot Sound's little "slice of paradise" as the Captain calls it, is here explicitly for research, obviously. We're at the edge of a glacier that's been receding considerably over the last five decades.

Research has been going as well as anyone could hope. The water, soil, mineral and ice core samples have already told us so much and we've barely scratched the surface.

It isn't all poetic imagery and frolicking. Work can be extremely dangerous, and it's always demanding. There's nothing like trekking through a popup blizzard in -40 at the glacier foothills to make you feel wholly insignificant. I'd still rather do that again than imagine what Dad's going to be like when I come home.

But speaking of people I hate: Let's talk about a special group of people I actually don't.

—

An interlude of sorts, ripped from inspired by one of my favorite shows growing up, M*A*S*H. I think it's a fun framing device that can give insight into both the narrator (in this case, Arthur) but also into the other characters, even in cases where Arthur isn't present.

- - -

PREV | BEGINNING | NEXT

#atf #atff: story #c: arthur

15 notes · View notes

kaiwrites-if · 1 year

Note

The itch to see short!Merlin be overly defensive about their height. “I’m not trying to over compensate, you’re projecting.” And othering tall people while making faces at them and table turning them with teases. “Head is still in the clouds I see… literally” “I can’t hear you, you’re too far away you’re gonna have to speak up.” “Just how do you manage with those gangly posts for legs?” They’d want Gwen in kahoots with them but I doubt she’d contribute. Merlin is in their Ed Elric arc.

Think your Merlin is going to be trouble.

Arthur would be laughing his arse off, but if anyone made a move to hurt Merlin, said person would have a sword at their throat.

Morgana pretends as though she doesn’t find it funny, but you’d definitely see her smirking at some of Merlin’s more creative insults.

Seeing a grey-haired Lance in your future because Merlin is definitely going to say this to the wrong people and get mobbed and Lance is going to have to fish you out of the consequences of your actions.

Gwen wouldn’t get involved as she enjoys being on the smaller side, and personally she’s not into beefing people that could step on her. She’d probably lend you verbal support in your cause though.

#ask #anon #c: arthur #c: morgana #c: lancelot #c: guinevere #short merlin problems

84 notes · View notes

rt2417 · 9 months

Text

[Hymn of Serata on the Requiem Night] Chapter 2

Rustica: The view is splendid and the scenery is breathtaking; it’s a shame that there’s no liveliness from the people to be found.

← Previous ✧ Directory ✧ Next →

Location: Remote Central Village

Time: Morning

Akira: We’ve arrived…! That was quite the flight.

I fix my hair, which was disheveled from the wind, while surveying the surrounding area.

A serene hilly landscape stretches around. Beneath the boundless blue sky, houses can be seen scattering the spaces between the hills.

Faust: It was a longer trip than I anticipated, but this place sure has a pleasant atmosphere. Both the roads and the houses are beautifully maintained.

Akira: I agree…. Faust, thank you for accompanying me. Having you here is really reassuring.

Faust: It’s nothing. I didn’t expect Oz to mention me, but refusing would be more troublesome for me.

Moreover, if the anomaly possesses a cursed nature of sorts, it’s certainly within my expertise. It would be best to begin investigating while I’m in the mood for it.

Akira: Of course! Lennox, thanks for giving us a ride too!

Lennox: You’re welcome. We’ve gone quite the long distance, do you feel unwell at all?

Akira: Not at all, it was really comfortable. Lennox’s broom feels very stable.

Lennox: Haha, that’s good to hear.

Lennox, who’s carrying his large broom in hand, has also heard about the village investigation. Upon me asking Faust for help, he offered to accompany us.

Akira: And you too, Bradley. Thank you for coming along with us.

Yesterday, I was pretty surprised to hear that you would be joining us….

Bradley: Hmph. It’s all that damn miserable curseworker’s fault. He tricked me into this.

He did some sneaky shit with the twins. They were followin’ me around from dawn to dusk, bitchin’ at me about how I ‘ave to go help with a request.

Faust: I merely consulted with Snow and White for advice. It was a necessary precaution in the event that things may turn dangerous.

If we could have your support, it’d be a great help. But rest assured, I’m not trying to deceive anyone here, so there’s no reason for you to call me “miserable” like that. I’d like an apology.

Bradley: Whatever. The great Bradley-sama has already gone out of his way to tag along. If anything, it should be me yer apologizin’ to, so I don’t wanna hear it.

Faust: My role is to report back. The twins will be the one handling the decision-making.

Arthur: Kenja-sama!

Then, the wizards who went looking for water returned. Rutile offers a water bottle and pops open the lid for me.

Rutile: Here you go, there’s a well at the end of the clearing, so we brought back some water from there.

Akira: Thank you. Was the clearing empty as well?

Cain: Yeah. As expected, it seems that people are wary of the anomalies and decide to stay indoors.

Rustica: The view is splendid and the scenery is breathtaking; it’s a shame that there’s no liveliness from the people to be found.

I heard that the strange phenomena appears at night, but to be so afraid even during daytime like this… How unfortunate.

Riquet: Yes. We need to quickly offer our support and guide the hearts of those who are deeply distressed by this unsettling phenomenon.

Lennox: That’s right. We should talk to the residents first while it’s still bright outside. Bradley, let’s go.

Bradley: Why me? Hey, sensei; time for you to take the lead.

Faust: Oi, don’t pull! Hah, seriously….

Cain: Haha. Faust, your hair got a bit messed up there.

Riquet: Come on, no more stalling. Let’s go visit the home of the person who requested help.

If I recall, it was the one with a red roof… Ah, it’s that one over there.

Bradley: Ooh, look who’s full of energy. Don’t run, fall, ‘nd cry, alright?

Riquet: I won’t run, and I won’t fall either. Don’t treat me like a child.

Rutile: Even so, it sure is quiet, isn’t it? Even though they’re all staying indoors, it would’ve been nice to feel more of a human presence…

Akira: Surely, that report can’t be true, that everyone was dragged into the darkness afterwards…. That’s not possible, is it?

Arthur: No… It appears that there’s likely no need for us to be concerned about that. Look.

In the direction that Arthur’s finger points at, a thin stream of smoke can be seen rising towards the sky.

Akira: That’s a relief…! The villagers really seem to be staying indoors. Plus, I can smell a pleasant aroma as well.

Lennox: It looks like smoke from cooking. They appear to have the energy to eat, so we can be at ease for the moment.

Rustica: This aroma, is it stew? It’s Arthur-sama’s favorite, isn’t it?

Arthur: Yeah, what a strange coincidence. Last night, at the Wizard Manor, Oz-sama and Nero prepared stew.

Bradley: That eastern cook and Oz as a pair…?

Riquet: Oz is more like a taste-tester. I also helped out with the taste testing.

Rutile: Seems like you two discovered a new flavor while we were attending that wedding in the Southern Country the other day. [1]

Riquet: It’s a little salty, but when you spread it on bread and eat it, it’s really delicious! Soft and fluffy bread pairs wonderfully with it….

Faust: ……Are you guys that hungry?

It doesn’t seem like a situation where we’ll be offered a meal, but regardless, we should open this door first.

Riquet: You’re right…. Ahem. Well then, may I call out to the people inside?

Faust: …No, I’ll handle this.

Man's Voice: …..Who is it?

A few moments after knocking; a low, quizzical voice came through the door.

Akira: (…..His voice is trembling.)

Even though we cannot see the owner of the voice, we can feel his frightened presence.

Faust turns to the door, which is still closed, and calls out indifferently.

Faust: We are the Sage’s Wizards.

I believe you have sent a request to the Wizard Manor regarding the anomalies that have been occurring in the village. In response, we have come to investigate.

Man's Voice: Investigate…..

After a moment of contemplation, the door opens hesitantly.

A middle-aged man with brown hair appears. His family can be seen behind him, each of them wearing an expression of nervousness and anticipation in their eyes.

Brown Haired Man: You guys are the Sage��s Wizards….. In that case, how do you plan to deal with that….?

Faust: By “that”, do you mean what you mentioned in the request? The white thing that roams during midnight….

Bradley: “This” ‘nd “that”, just say it already. Yer talkin’ ‘bout the hands that creep ‘round in the middle of the night, aren’t ya.

Brown Haired Man: Eek! P-Please don’t talk about it so loudly!

Curly Haired Old Woman: That’s right…..! If you talk about it, it might come for you……!

Riquet: Doesn’t the anomaly only appear at night? It’s still not even noon right now.

Rustica: Please, do not be so afraid. We are here for that very purpose.

Brown Haired Man: E-Even if you say so… That scene is something I can’t simply forget. Every now and then, I feel like it’s slowly creeping up behind me….

Akira: (The mere mention of the topic is enough for them to act so scared… We’ll need to put their minds at rest, first.)

Please, rest assured. We’ll find out what’s going on and get to the bottom of this.

Cain: Yeah. It must’ve been frightening with so many unknown things going on, but from this point forward, we will conduct a thorough investigation.

Arthur: In order to keep this enchanting village a soothing place for everyone; we will put forth our utmost effort.

Convinced by the friendly and dependable wizards, the man’s tension slowly loosened. As proof of that, the door in front of us opens wider.

Brown Haired Man: ……It is we who should be thanking you. I’ve heard rumors that requests to resolve anomalies are pouring in from all around the world.

Even though I sent the request letter, there was no certainty that you all would come to this remote area. As I think about that, I feel so uneasy…

It seems that everyone was hiding inside their homes, observing us quietly. Before long, people begin to gather in small groups.

Curly Haired Old Woman: Oh, truly, the wise Sage’s Wizards have come! How fortunate we are…

Woman in an Apron: Are you also a wizard too? You look like such a remarkable individual, like a distinguished mercenary.

Lennox: Haha. It’s true that I'm better at fighting with my bare hands, but I'm a wizard too.

And, I’m a shepherd too. Look. [2]

Girl with Freckles: Wah, a small sheep! So cute…..!

Old Man with a Crooked Back: Oh dear, it’s really kind of you to come all the way to this remote village.

Girl with Freckles: Surely, it’s because Prince Arthur is so kind. He must’ve requested the wizards to come and rescue my home from this dire crisis.

Isn’t that right, Mother?

Girl's Mother: That’s right. Prince Arthur loves everyone in the Central Country.

Girl with Freckles: Oh, if only I could thank the Prince in person.

Cain and Riquet, who heard the villagers talking, whisper to Arthur in hushed tones.

Cain: Hear that, Prince Arthur?

Riquet: Somehow, it’s a bit frustrating, isn’t it? Arthur-sama is right here.

Arthur, beaming from hearing the whispers, gently bends down to meet the freckled girl's eyes.

Arthur: I will definitely let Prince Arthur know how thankful you are. I’m certain the Prince will be delighted.

Girl with Freckles: Ahh, I’m glad…! Please pass my thanks on, Wizard-san.

Boy wearing Shorts: Hey, hey; are you guys really real wizards? Show us some magic!

Rutile: Of course we are! « Ortonik • Setomaouge »

As Rutile’s gentle voice echoes and the wind blows, the colorful flowers form a circle around the children.

Rustica: We can also do this sort of thing. « Amoresuto • Viesse »

With a gentle poof, the flowers change into cute little birds and flit around the children.

Girl with Freckles: So cool, so cool! So this is real magic….!

Boy wearing Shorts: Hey, big bro, can you show us something too?

Bradley: Hah? Who do ya think yer messin’ with? Magic ain’t just for tricks. Don’t take a wizard lightly, lad.

Mustached Man: Haha. I’ll be able to brag to the neighbors that I met the Sage’s Wizards after this.

Akira: (What a relief….. The people in the village look much happier now compared to earlier.)

Faust: ……Even if it’s a remote village, it still harbors the spirit of the Central Country.

Lennox: Yes. It seems that what Faust-sama was worried about has been avoided for the time being.

Faust: Yeah. In remote areas, there are often strong prejudices against wizards.

Faust: Even so, the given situation is already riddled with uncertainties. There’s no telling what might happen…. But it seems I worried needlessly.

this is a cute call back to the recent june bride event!

*baah* sfx

← Previous ✧ Directory ✧ Next →

#s: mhyk #c: akira #c: lennox #c: faust #c: bradley #c: arthur #c: cain #c: riquet #c: rustica #c: rutile #t: event story #p: chapter

2 notes · View notes