kamidukki

[kamidukki]

Judgment by Fallen Angel - SSR Lato Card Story

Chapter 1 - Lato's Choice

※ A notice before reading the Butler Story This story contains spoilers for the "Judgment by Fallen Angel" event story. It is recommended to read up to Chapter 12 of the event story before proceeding. If you wish to avoid spoilers, please return by pressing the button in the upper left corner.

Several days after the opening night at the theater... The butlers were once again diligently rehearsing for the next performance.

Click

> "How are you doing, guys?"

Fennesz: "Ah, my lord. Did you come to check on us? Fufu… thank you for making the effort."

In the dance practice room, Lato and Miyaji were present, but Berrien was nowhere to be seen.

> "Is Berrien still working?"

Fennesz: "N-No… actually..."

Miyaji: "Berrien strained his throat. Just to be safe, he's resting in his room."

> "What!? Is he okay?"

Miyaji: “Yeah, don't worry. It's probably because he overdid his lines-reading practice. It's not that serious, so he should recover soon if he rests."

> "That's a relief..."

Lato: "Come to think of it, Mr.Berrien… has been practicing every day without fail."

Fennesz: "Yeah... And on stage, he always needs to speak louder than usual."

Miyaji: "True. He's probably just worn out."

> "Will he make it in time for the next performance?"

Miyaji: "No... As a precaution, I'll have him rest for the next performance only. The show must go on. It's better for him to take a break and focus on recovering."

> "But who will play Berrien's role...?"

Miyaji: "Yeah, we were just discussing that. Normally, we'd find a replacement, but... It's too late to have someone memorize the lines now. So, I have a suggestion... How about combining the roles of the two fallen angels who defend humanity into one?"

Fennesz: "But won't that... increase Mr. Miyaji's lines significantly? As for me, I remember everyone's lines in my head, it's better for me to take the role instead…”

Miyaji: "No, Fennesz. I'd like you to rewrite the script for three characters. Since you wrote the script, you're the most suitable for that job."

Fennesz: “I-I see... Understood. Then I'll... do my best to make it easier for Mr. Miyaji."

Miyaji: "Yeah, thank you."

Lato: "Um, Prof. Miyaji."

Miyaji: "Hm? What is it, Lato?"

Lato: "If it's about Mr. Berrien's replacement... I'd like to give it a try too."

> "Huh...?"

Fennesz: "Lato... as Mr. Berrien's replacement?"

Lato: "Because... I feel like I'd get tired of playing the same role all the time. Since it's a rare opportunity, I'd like to try a different role."

Miyaji: "Hmm... I see…"

Fennesz: "B-but Lato... Can you memorize all of Mr. Berrien's lines starting now?"

Lato: "No, I don't memorize lines to begin with. I just say whatever comes to mind at the moment."

Fennesz: “N-now that you mention it..."

> "But it's amazing how he's still doing so well..."

Fennesz: "True, the opening night went smoothly despite that... Um... What do you think, Mr. Miyaji?"

Miyaji: "Well... If Lato wants to do it, I'd like to respect his wishes. I've performed various plays with him before... and I believe in his ability. Lato, you must be suggesting it because you think you can do it, right?"

Lato: "Yes. Since you're coming to watch, my lord... I want to show you a splendid performance."

Fennesz: "I see... I understand. So, please leave the script adjustments to me. I'll rewrite it so it doesn't feel forced with three characters."

Miyaji: “Yeah. If anything happens, I'll do my best to do a follow-up.”

Fennesz: "Thank you. Then, can I leave the role to you, Lato?"

Lato: "Kufufu... Thank you both for entrusting me."

Miyaji: "Of course. I believe in your ability to pull it off, Lato. Besides, It should be a good experience for you… playing a role with different values from your own."

> “Break a leg, Lato"

Lato: "Yes. My lord, please look forward to the next performance."

And so, Lato took on Berrien's role...

Until just before the next performance, the three of them practiced diligently.

~~~

On the day of the performance...

I was in the audience, anxiously waiting for the start time. There weren't any problems during rehearsals, but...

Would it really go well during the actual performance?

> (I hope it all goes well...)

As I prayed for that… The curtains finally rose on the stage.

…………

Fennesz: "………… Sigh..."

Lato: "Oh? What's wrong, Mr. Fennesz? Looking down at the ground with such a sigh…" 

Fennesz: "Lato... Look at that. Humans on the ground are at war again."

Lato: "Yes… It seems so."

Fennesz: "Even at this moment, angels are trying to destroy humans... Why can't they cooperate with each other?"

Lato: "Kufufu, the reason is simple... They're just like ants. You can tell from observing from above."

Fennesz: "Huh... A-ants?"

Lato: "Yes. Ants form colonies and often go to war with other colonies. Humans, ants... Perhaps it's the fate of living beings to fight among their own kind."

Fennesz: "Uh... I see... But even so... It's starting to feel more and more pointless. We've been fighting for so long to protect humans from angels..."

> (That was an improvisation, wasn't it…) > (I wonder if everything will be okay...)

From then on, Lato interjected ad-lib lines here and there… But thanks to Fennesz and Miyaji's follow-ups... there were no interruptions in the performance.

The audience didn't seem to notice anything amiss… There were no jeerings like during the opening night, and the play continued without a hitch… And finally, we reached the climax.

Chapter 2 - Lato's Choice

Miyaji: “I never desired to rule over humanity to begin with. They and I are on the same page when it comes to ‘the survival of humanity’."

Fennesz: "Yes... I agree. I have been given this power... I want to use it not only for myself... But also for those who are more important to me."

Lato: "Yes... It seems like we've reached a conclusion. We will continue to..."

As the play neared its end... I felt somewhat relieved, and while I was watching Lato's performance... Suddenly, our eyes met on stage.

Lato: "............"

> (Lato?)

Audience: "Hm...? What's wrong? Did he forget his lines...?"

Miyaji: "We will continue to protect humanity from now on... Right, Lato?"

Lato: "I'm sorry, Prof. Miyaji. But I really can't lie."

Miyaji: "Lie...?"

Fennesz: "Lie? What do you mean? You're not planning to say something like 'humanity would be better off perishing’ again, are you?"

Lato: "No, that's not my intention. I will protect humanity... But I just don't agree with 'equality'."

Fennesz: "Equality...?"

Lato: "Yes. Because even I want to freely choose whom to protect. For me, the value of life is not equal. Risking my life for people who don't matter to me is foolish. This life of mine... exists to protect those who are important to me."

Lato declared clearly on stage, while looking into my eyes: "I will abandon those who are worthless to me” ...

Even in a performance, those are such heavy words, for a devil butler who's stronger than humans. I could feel the unprecedented tension among the surrounding audience members.

> (W-what do we do...?)

After a few heavy seconds of silence, Miyaji spoke up.

Miyaji: "Yeah... That's fine. Sometimes, we may be forced to make such choices. Just because we have slightly more power than others... It's presumptuous to think we can save all of humanity. Since we can't save everyone... What we can do is... Make an effort to save as many lives as possible. And... Choose the lives that should be saved... It's about saving many 'precious lives'."

The tension among the nearby nobles seemed to ease slightly by Miyaji's words. It seemed like they interpreted the phrase "precious lives" as referring to themselves.

Miyaji: "Well then... Lato's conclusion is no different from ours. We will continue to protect humanity..."

Fennesz: "Well, even if they… hate us."

Lato: "Kufufu... Isn't that fine? Even if we're hated... there are already people who understand us. As long as there are people like that among humanity... We will never betray them...."

Fennesz: "........You're right. I guess that's enough for me, for now."

Miyaji: "Yeah. And one day, others will understand too. We believe that the sacrifices we've made for humanity will someday be worth it..."

Lato: "Yes. Let's pledge to continue protecting humanity from now on."

The curtains closed along with Lato's words on the stage. Applause and praise erupted from the relieved audience. As the play ended... After waiting for everyone in the audience to leave, Lato approached me and spoke.

Lato: "How was it, my lord? Watching from the audience... Did you enjoy it?"

> "There were so many ad-libs, it was nerve-wracking"

Lato: "I see. It seems we managed to not make it boring. Kufufu... It was also refreshing to me to play a different role from last time. And... While portraying Mr. Berrien's character... I felt like I understood his feelings even more now."

> "Berrien's feelings?"

Lato: "Yes. Mr. Berrien was... suffering because of the secret he kept from us, right? When I learned about it... I couldn't understand why he was suffering so much. If you only have the power to save one person... Isn't it natural to choose someone important to you? Sacrificing others for that person is inevitable. There's no need to feel guilty…"

> "But now you understand his feelings?"

Lato: "About that...  …… I was able to think this scenario 'If I were in Mr. Berrien's position' once again. 'Being able to save only one person' might be crueler than 'being unable to save anyone'. 

Because you feel responsible for the deaths of many people in exchange for saving one life. 

Unlike before... I now have... others I care about, besides Alec. And when the time comes to choose only one from among them... I think I would suffer like Mr. Berrien did.

In order to save the life of one important person... It means choosing the life of the other loved ones to die…"

> "Lato..."

Lato: "What would you do, my lord? Between me, Flure, and Prof. Miyaji... If you could only save one... Who would you choose? And... Whom would you let die…"

> "That's..."

I didn't know how to answer Lato's question... I want to cherish the butlers... So even in a hypothetical scenario, I couldn't carelessly give an answer. But Berrien had been forced into such choices multiple times in reality. Thinking about it... I felt uneasy all over again.

Lato: "Kufufu... I'm sorry, my lord."

> "Huh...?"

Lato: "Even though it's hypothetical, I ended up forcing you to make a difficult choice. But just by looking at your face... I feel like I know who you would choose."

> "R-really?"

Lato: "Yes. I feel like I understand you more than anyone else does. Well, even if you chose someone else... I would surely choose you."

> "Why..."

*Close-up* Lato: "Kufufu. That's needless to say, because I've decided that 'I will protect you.' Including Flure and Prof. Miyaji... And all the other butlers. I treasure them, of course... But I think everyone... Probably will choose the same as me."

> "I see..."

Lato: "Your well-being... We, the devil butlers, will protect it at all costs."

Despite Lato's gentle smile... I could sense his unwavering determination in his words. To protect me, even at the cost of his life... Responding to his determination... I'd do anything to save Lato. Once again, that feeling grew stronger.

END

#aknk #akuneko #lato bacca #あくねこ

[kamidukki]

Rokkenjima Prime; Battler Culprit Theory

Submitted by goddamntakashi:

Genesis of the Murder

Battler’s disgust with his family runs deeper than anyone realizes. When Rudolf is willing to declare that he swapped Kyrie and Asumu’s babies just to attempt to lure Battler to return to the family (whether true or not; Rudolf probably just finally broke down and wanted to be honest), he becomes convinced that the family’s lust for money has pushed them beyond the pale and left them irredeemable.

Keep reading

#Umineko

[kamidukki]

Complete Umineko Timeline

I recently finished my first readthrough of seminal 2007 murder mystery doujin visual novel Umineko: When they Cry. While I was reading I kept detailed notes on both my solutions to the murder mystery puzzles and the backstory timeline that led up to the game. I'm sure plenty of other people have gone over the solutions before but the timeline itself is likely to be interesting so I've cleaned it up for publication. This includes the following

Calculations for how we can derive dates that are never given explicitly but have enough evidence to constrain them to a narrow range (this applies to the years most of the adults were born)

Backstory events stretching out behind the catbox into the past

Post-1986 events stretching out in front of the catbox into the future (It should be noted that some of these differ slightly between the manga and the visual novel. I've chosen to follow the manga where applicable as it was written later and generally seems to contain Ryukishi's 'intended' solution)

For the contents of the catbox itself you'll want to take a look at the solutions (or maybe if there's a demand for it I'll write mine up too)

Discussion

Krauss, Eva, and Natsuhi

Umineko never directly states how old Krauss, Eva, and Natsuhi are. However we have the following pieces of evidence we can use to pinpoint things

Eva mentions that Natsuhi is three years younger than her during one of the parlor scenes in Legend

Eva’s narration refers to Krauss as her older brother of two years during her flashback at the beginning of Banquet

Natsuhi was childless for 12 years before having Jessica 18 years ago, placing her marriage 30 years ago in 1956

The Ushiromiyas moved to Rokkenjima in 1952. Eva’s flashback at the beginning of Banquet takes place while she’s living on Rokkenjima and at the tail end of high school demanding to go to college (ages 15-17)

Eva’s birthday is October 21

This places limits on their possible ages in both directions. The school year in Japan begins in April and students begin elementary school at age 6. Therefore, to have been attending high school in 1952, Eva must have been born somewhere in the range 1936-1938. Since Natsuhi is three years younger than her and got married in 1956 this means she was married somewhere between age 15 and age 17. There’s nothing I would put past Kinzo but the older end of that range seems most likely so for this timeline I chose to make Krauss born in 1934, Eva born in 1936, and Natsuhi born in 1939

Rudolf, Asumu, and Kyrie

Like his siblings we’re never given Rudolf’s exact age but we can get a good estimate from the available evidence

The Ushiromiyas moved to Rokkenjima in 1952. When the siblings discuss the stories of wolves on the island in Banquet, we’re told that Rudolf was in elementary school (ages 6-11) at the time

Kinzo’s flashback in the manga version of Requiem establishes visually that Krauss, Eva, and Rudolf were all born before he enlisted in 1944

Rudolf’s birthday is September 29

Just like for Eva, this constrains the possible years Rudolf could have been born to between 1941 and 1943. Of these 1941 is the most likely because the age difference between him and Eva doesn’t seem particularly large

All we can say about Asumu and Kyrie’s ages is that they went to college with Rudolf and are therefore close in age to him. As a side note Asumu’s family name Akinaka is never given anywhere in Umineko but Ryukishi specified it on twitter in 2013 so I’ve chosen to use it here

Rosa

In a recurring pattern Rosa’s age is never stated exactly but it’s easy to infer

Rosa met the girl who was imprisoned in Kuwadorian in 1967 and was in middle school (ages 12-14) at the time

Rosa had Maria in 1977

Rosa’s birthday is June 3

The possible years she could have been born are then 1953-1955 which means she had Maria somewhere between age 22 and age 24. I’m again most inclined to pick the early date since it makes her have Maria at a slightly more reasonable age.

Unfortunately, this age doesn’t completely make sense with the stories we’re told about her childhood. Her siblings would all have been essentially full adults by the time she was old enough to spend much time interacting with them so the stories we hear about them tormenting her are reframed as adults hurting a six year old. Not exactly impossible in Umineko but it casts everything in a very different light

The Kuwadorian Girl

Requiem refers to Kinzo raping the Kuwadorian girl when she was the same age Bice was when he first met her. For the sake of intergenerational parallels across the three Beatrices, this age is almost certainly 19, placing both her birth and Bice’s death in 1948, but all we know for certain is that she was older than Rosa but not a full adult when she met her. Since Bice died before the mansion's completion in 1952 and the Kuwadorian girl died in 1967 the lower bound on her age is 15.

Alternatively, we can consider the circumstances of Rosa's birth and work backwards. Krauss, Eva, and Rudolf were all conceived before Kinzo left for the war and when he returned he neglected his wife to spend time with his mistress instead. Rosa, who was born significantly later, appears to have been conceived after Bice was already dead. From this we can infer a possible sequence of events - perhaps Kinzo in his grief at losing the woman he loved tried sleeping with his legal wife one last time to see if maybe he could find solace in her arms and that produced Rosa. Following this methodology the Kuwadorian girl's most likely age is exactly nine months older than Rosa or roughly 15 at the time of her death. I've chosen to follow the parallels and make her 19 on the timeline but you can make a good argument for either.

Erika

Erika is described as a few years younger than Jessica. Her backstory sounds like it takes place in college but we should probably chalk this up to the anime tendency to pretend high schoolers are independent adults and treat it as taking place in high school. With nothing else to go on, the best we can do is fall back on Higurashi parallels - Erika is a double for Bernkastel who most closely resembles a 16 year old Rika

George

At the beginning of Legend Battler says that George is "five years older than me so he's probably turning 23 this year". George's birthday is March 19 which is before October so at first glance this might seem like a logic error but the answer is just that Battler doesn't remember his cousins' birthdays and George is already 23

Jessica

There's no question whatsoever about the date of Jessica's birth. She was born on August 25, 1968 to an extremely happy Natsuhi. What's a little more in doubt is the circumstances. If we count backwards nine months to get the timeframe for her conception, we find that Jessica was conceived in late November 1967. Lion's 'birthday' ie the day that they were given to Natsuhi is November 29, 1967 which lines up almost exactly with Jessica's conception. Following the same logic that connects Rosa's conception to Bice's death a certain possibility arises here too - perhaps Kinzo handled the death of the Kuwadorian girl by once again sleeping with the nearest available woman to see if perhaps she could be a replacement and this resulted in Jessica. It would certainly explain why Natsuhi was unable to get pregnant for twelve years and then suddenly conceived if it were in fact Krauss who was infertile the whole time.

That being said we have it in red that Natsuhi is pure and faithful so perhaps this whole line of logic is faulty from the start. Umineko certainly never implies anything of the sort on purpose

Lion & Sayo

The date of Lion and Sayo's birth is unclear. Lion was given to Natsuhi on November 29, 1967 and Sayo was given the birthday of May 25 at the orphanage but it's not clear that either of these is their true birthday. The most we can say is that they were born at some point in 1967

Ange

This one’s an actual logic error. We are given the following three pieces of evidence which cannot simultaneously be true

Ange’s birthday is June 17 and she’s six years old therefore she was born in 1980

Battler made a promise to Sayo six years ago at the 1980 family conference in early October

Asumu died, Rudolf married a pregnant Kyrie, and Battler left the Ushiromiya family after that promise

As June comes before October this situation is impossible. We could try to resolve it by saying that Ange was born six months before Asumu died but the narrative is clear that Kyrie was pregnant when she got married, not already raising an illegitimate child. Similarly we could claim that Battler actually made his promise at a non-family conference visit to Rokkenjima in early 1980 but Requiem clearly shows us the first, second, and third family conferences after Battler leaves and has Kanon be created at the third one three years ago so this throws off the entire timeline. The only remotely reasonable solution is to decide that Ange was actually born on June 17, 1981 and is just the kind of little kid who likes to say she’s six when she’s really five and a half (and then keeps doing this for the rest of her life so she calls herself eighteen when she’s really seventeen and a half)

Timeline

1900s:

Nanjo Terumasa is born (April 5)

Ronoue Genji is born (June 10)

Kumasawa Chiyo is born (July 19)

Ushiromiya Kinzo is born (August 17)

1910s:

Genji and Kinzo grow up in Taiwan together. They are both the sons of rich families and they become close friends

1923:

The great Kanto earthquake destroys the Ushiromiya family. The surviving family elders pick Kinzo (20s), a distantly related branch family member to be the new family head ostensibly because he has polydactyly but really because they want to use him as a puppet

1926:

Beatrice Castiglioni is born (September 14)

1920s:

Hideyoshi is born (November 25)

Kinzo (20s) is forced to marry a woman he does not love and spends twenty years as a living corpse, enduring life without really living. His only solace is his love for reading foreign books

1934:

Ushiromiya Krauss is born (February 26)

1936:

Ushiromiya Eva is born (October 21)

1939:

Natsuhi is born (July 30)

1940:

Krauss (6) begins elementary school

1941:

Ushiromiya Rudolf is born (September 29)

1940s:

Sumadera Kyrie is born (November 8)

Sumadera Kasumi is born (September 10)

Akinaka Asumu is born

1943:

Eva (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

1944:

Kinzo (40s) volunteers to fight in WWII. He is assigned to a secret submarine base on Rokkenjima as engineering staff. No Japanese submarines ever actually dock at the base and eventually the navy decides to store an enormous quantity of explosives on the island so it can be strategically blown up if necessary

1945:

An Italian submarine carrying ten tons of secret gold docks at the Rokkenjima base and Kinzo (40s) meets Beatrice (19) who is serving as the Italian translator. Kinzo incites a shootout over the gold which kills everyone else on the island and the two run away together as lovers. He meets Nanjo (40s) as the doctor on Nijima who treats Beatrice’s wounds

Kinzo performs the most difficult con of his life and manages to prevent the military from finding out what happened on Rokkenjima or discovering the presence of the gold

1946:

Natsuhi (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

Krauss (12) begins middle school

1940s:

Kinzo begins living a double life, spending as much of his time as possible with his mistress Beatrice while maintaining appearances with his family

Kinzo foresees that Genji’s family will meet a horrible fate if they stay in Taiwan during the post-war chaos. Unfortunately he is only able to convince Genji to leave and the rest of them perish. In gratitude for saving him, Genji decides to dedicate the rest of his life to serving Kinzo as his butler

Kinzo uses a variety of legal shenanigans to acquire ownership of Rokkenjima and secure the location of the gold

Kinzo takes inspiration from the poorly pressed bird symbol in which only one wing is visible on the gold and creates the one winged eagle family crest. He represses any ingots taken outside Rokkenjima with the symbol he designed

Kinzo takes a trusted business contact, the president of the Marusoo company, to see the gold. He gives him physical possession of one ton of the gold as collateral and has him take back a single ingot to be appraised. With this level of verification he is able to take out massive loans from the business community. He uses his foreign language skills to get in extremely close with the post-war occupying forces and makes vast amounts of money providing supplies for the Korean War. Finally he repays his debts and retrieves the collateral from his friend, leaving him with a single ingot as a commemorative gift

Hideyoshi is left orphaned by the war. He decides to build a company from the ground up, starting with stealing supplies from the occupying forces. Slowly but surely he becomes a powerful businessman

1948:

Rudolf (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

Beatrice (23) dies in childbirth. Kinzo (40s) is heartbroken and decides to treat her daughter as her reincarnation, giving her the name Ushiromiya Beatrice

1949:

Krauss (15) begins high school

Eva (12 going on 13) begins middle school

1952:

Kinzo (50s) constructs a secret mansion on Rokkenjima known as Kuwadorian and uses it to house his new daughter. At the same time he builds a secret underground VIP room to store the gold. He comes up with an elaborate riddle to hide its secret and builds a complicated mechanism to open the door. Finally, he repurposes the explosives on the island to build a special clock that will blow up the entire island at midnight if a switch is set. He uses this doomsday device to gamble his life by setting time limits for problem solving and is able to achieve short bursts of brilliant madness that drive enormous business success

Kinzo (50s) finishes construction of his new home on the other side of Rokkenjima from Kuwadorian. He moves his entire family to live there and frequently disappears for long periods of time to visit Beatrice. The two mansions are linked by a secret underground passageway left over from the island’s days as a military base

Krauss (18) begins college

Eva (15 going on 16) begins high school

Natsuhi (12 going on 13) begins middle school

1953:

Ushiromiya Rosa is born (June 3)

1950s:

Kinzo uses some of his wealth to create Fukuin House, an orphanage for children with nowhere else to go. He begins taking ambitious teenagers from the orphanage as young servants in order to give them practical experience and money to start their lives with

Kinzo violently abuses his children and constantly screams and insults them

Kinzo’s wife becomes extremely suspicious that he’s cheating on her with a blonde but is never able to find evidence. Every time he disappears to visit the girl in Kuwadorian she organizes all of the servants to frantically search the house and attempt to find him. Eventually it becomes commonly accepted knowledge that Kinzo has a secret mistress and her hopeless situation drives her to despair

Krauss frequently beats and insults his younger siblings to compensate for his complex about not being able to live up to his father’s expectations

Eva becomes obsessed with earning her father’s respect and works as hard as possible to become a good student and achieve great things, even becoming class president when Krauss never became more than vice-president. She loathes Krauss for automatically being the successor simply because he’s a man. In order to fuel her work ethic she creates an alternate self representing her childhood dreams that lives inside her as a witch

Rudolf constantly sneaks off into the shadows for sexual liaisons with the maids

Rosa grows up extremely lonely with no friends anywhere near her age and no one who is willing to pay attention to her. She retreats into a world of playing with dolls and stuffed animals until eventually her older siblings rip up her most treasured friend U-tan the rabbit and declare that she’s dead

Natsuhi grows up in an extraordinarily strict environment, kept isolated from the world as a princess

Kinzo collects a number of Winchester rifles and practices shooting them in the woods

1954:

Rudolf (12 going on 13) begins middle school

1955:

Eva (18 going on 19) graduates high school and manages to go to college against her father’s wishes through sheer hard work

Natsuhi (15 going on 16) begins high school

1956:

Krauss (22) graduates from college and begins working as a real estate investor

Kinzo (50s) crushes Natsuhi’s (17) family and as a prize forces her to marry Krauss (22). It is not clear whether she is given the chance to complete high school. She is unable to bear a child for a very long time despite trying

1957:

Rudolf (15 going on 16) begins high school

1959:

Eva (22 going on 23) graduates from college

1960:

Rudolf (18 going on 19) graduates high school and goes to college. While there he begins perpetrating elaborate fraud schemes and seducing women. He acquires a large harem of hangers-on but eventually ends up splitting most of his time between Kyrie who is his business partner and Asumu who provides him with emotional support

Rosa (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

1962:

Eva (26) marries Hideyoshi (40s). Due to Natsuhi’s (23) failure to bear a child she is able to have him transferred into the Ushiromiya family register

1963:

George is born to Eva (26 going on 27) and Hideyoshi (40s) (March 19)

1964:

Rudolf (22 going on 23) graduates from college and partners with Kyrie (20s) to found a new company

1966:

Rosa (12 going on 13) begins middle school

1967:

Kinzo (60s) forces the Kuwadorian girl (19) to have his incestuous child

In late November, Rosa (14) runs away from home after having a fight with her mother and encounters the Kuwadorian girl (19). She helps her escape but while attempting to get back to the mansion she falls off a cliff and dies. After this incident Kuwadorian is shut down for good

Kinzo (60s) gives the child he had with the Kuwadorian girl to Natsuhi (28) to raise. She treats this as an insult due to her inability to have a child and is so disgusted that she pushes the servant carrying the baby off a cliff. The servant dies but Genji covers up the incident and police rule it an accident. Kinzo is driven deeply into madness and begins to isolate himself and spend all of his time studying the occult

Kinzo’s child survives the fall but Genji (60s) sends them to Fukuin House and conceals them from Natsuhi and Kinzo. They are given the name Yasuda Sayo and the birthday May 25. Although the child was assigned male at birth, the fall severely damages their genitals and afterwards it is decided to raise them as a girl. Nanjo performs the surgery that saves their life and at the same time he amputates their polydactyly sixth toe. He ‘carelessly’ leaves a scar, ensuring that Kinzo will one day be able to recognize them

In an alternate timeline where Natsuhi (28) does not attempt to kill the child, they are given the name Ushiromiya Lion and raised as the successor to the Ushiromiya headship with the new birthday November 29

1968:

Kyrie (20s) and Asumu (20s) get pregnant at the same time. Asumu discovers the pregnancy first and convinces Rudolf to have a shotgun marriage. Their delivery dates are on the same day. Asumu miscarries, Kyrie has Ushiromiya Battler, and then while they’re both barely conscious Rudolf (26 going on 27) swaps the babies so that his legal wife will be the one who gives birth (July 15). Asumu almost certainly figures out what has happened but resolves to love Battler as her own son regardless

Kyrie (20s) manages to use Rudolf’s (27) influence to completely escape from the Sumadera family. Kasumi is forced to take on her responsibilities as the successor and marry a man she does not love

At long last Natsuhi (29) is able to bear a child and Jessica is born (August 25)

1969:

Rosa (15 going on 16) begins high school

George (6) begins elementary school

1970:

Furudo Erika is born (October 4)

1972:

Rosa (18 going on 19) graduates high school and begins college. Presumably the battle Eva fought with Kinzo to secure her own education allows Rosa to do the same as Rosa certainly doesn’t have the guts to fight for it herself

1970s:

Genji decides to fake Sayo’s age and claim that she is three years younger than she really is to avoid Natsuhi and Kinzo realizing her identity. In order to make this work he ensures that she grows up completely isolated within the orphanage. She spends all of her time locked inside and is never allowed to make friends who might notice that she’s not the age she’s supposed to be

Rudolf and Kyrie build a powerful company together, constantly skirting the law and committing serious fraud. Many of their rivals are driven so far into debt that they commit suicide

Kinzo's legal wife dies. He cries at her funeral but not very much

1974:

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (6 going on 7) they begin elementary school

1975:

Jessica (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

Battler (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

George (12) begins middle school

1976:

Rosa (22 going on 23) graduates college and begins creating a fashion company

Genji (70s) arranges for Sayo (9 pretending to be 6) to begin working at the mansion under the name Shannon. In order to hide her existence from Natsuhi (36) and Kinzo (70s) he claims she is three years younger than she actually is. She treats the Shannon identity as a sort of imaginary friend representing the ideal servant girl she would like to become

Lunon, Sanon, Lenon, and Leion begin working at the same time as Sayo (9 pretending to be 6). They are significantly older than her and do not treat her very well

1970s:

Sayo slowly acclimates to life as a servant. After repeatedly losing things she invents a witch who she calls Beatrice but will later call Gaap as an imaginary friend who takes her possessions. Kumasawa teaches her a series of tricks to not lose things which she frames as rituals to keep the witch at bay

Sayo breaks a vase which is particularly dear to Kinzo. Kumasawa helps her avoid punishment by claiming the vase was broken by a stray cat, teaching her the concept of magic that matches a result

Due to being thrown off a cliff when she was a baby, Sayo does not have normal hormone production and does not go through puberty, remaining waifish and androgynous. She is extremely disturbed by her boyish appearance and lack of periods and begins to hate mirrors. In order to look more feminine she begins padding her chest

Sayo learns that she shares a deep love of mystery novels with Battler and begins to fall in love with him over repeated visits. He tells her about his ideal girl with a description broadly taken from porn magazines. Asumu watches over and supports their relationship

1977:

Ushiromiya Maria is born (March 29). Her father tricks Rosa (23 going on 24) into taking out a giant loan for him and then flees the country, leaving her a single mother

Erika (6 going on 7) begins elementary school

Sayo (9 going on 10 pretending to be 6 going on 7) begins elementary school

1978:

George (15) begins high school

1979:

Lunon, Sanon, Lenon, and Leion graduate from being Ushiromiya servants. Asne, Belne, and Manon begin working as replacements

Sayo (12 pretending to be 9) trains the new servants. Belne doesn’t take the stories of the witch seriously so in order to teach her a lesson, Sayo begins conducting a series of pranks on her. She hides her master key in Belne’s locker, waits for Belne to unlock a room and put her keys down, swaps her keyring without the master key with Belne’s, and then asks Belne to lock the door. This makes it appear as though the key was moved from Belne’s ring to the locker by magic while giving Sayo a strong alibi for stealing it. After many similar experiences, Belne repents and believes in the witch

Sayo (12 pretending to be 9) abandons the desire to become an ideal servant which Shannon represented and instead begins planning to become a witch. She revises her imaginary scenario so that now she is the witch Beatrice and Gaap is a demon who is her close friend. Her witchsona with long greenish-blonde hair and a white dress will later be known as Clair Vaux Bernardus

1980:

Battler (12) visits Rokkenjima for the last time before leaving the family. He promises Sayo (13 pretending to be 10) that when she’s ready to leave the island he’ll come for her on a white horse and whisk her away. He gives her until the family conference next year to decide whether to take him up on his offer

George (17) watches Battler (12) and Sayo (13 pretending to be 10) talking and gets extremely jealous

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (12 going on 13) they begin middle school

1981:

Jessica (12 going on 13) begins middle school

George (18) graduates from high school and begins college

Battler (12 going on 13) begins middle school

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (13 going on 14) they are elected vice president of their middle school class

Kyrie (30s) gets pregnant with Ange and finally gains the certain determination to kill Asumu (30s). However before she can act Asumu dies for unrelated reasons. Rudolf (39 going on 40) marries Kyrie immediately, and Ange is born shortly afterwards (June 17). Battler (12 going on 13) is so offended by this series of events that he leaves the Ushiromiya family and goes to live with Asumu’s parents for the next six years, taking the family name Akinaka. When Sayo (14 pretending to be 11) learns that he has left the family she convinces herself that this is a trial of love and if only she waits for him while believing hard enough he will come for her next year

Battler (13) does not attend the family conference. Sayo (14 pretending to be 11) is heartbroken but tells herself that he’ll come next year

1980s:

A number of important pieces of media come out earlier in the Umineko timeline than in our world. Touhou becomes popular, and Pretty Cure style magical girl shows begin airing on TV including one that stars Bernkastel

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion they begin playing badminton and achieve great success at tournaments

Maria meets a priest who tells her about Jesus. This experience convinces her that she too is a child of god with magical powers and she undertakes intense occult self-study

Rosa regularly leaves Maria alone for days at a time so that she can go on trips with men. The entire neighborhood becomes extremely worried about her. Maria begins to become isolated both at school and at home and is regularly bullied

Sayo begins meeting with Maria as her witchsona every time she visits the island. She convinces her that she is a witch by showing her small magic tricks and becomes her best friend

Battler wins a set of cheap plastic hair ornaments for Ange at a fair. They become one of her most treasured possessions

Erika goes out with a boy who is living some sort of double life. She collects circumstantial evidence and becomes convinced he’s cheating on her. It’s unprovable but the core themes of this narrative suggest that the secret is probably actually crossdressing

Rosa gives Maria a cheap department store plushie and pretends she made it herself. Maria names him Sakutaro and loves him with all her heart

Sayo begins actively building the legend of the golden witch by telling ghost stories and playing occult themed pranks on people. Through her hard work she combines the existing ghost stories about the evil spirits of Rokkenjima with the story of Kinzo’s mistress to create an environment where all unexplainable phenomena will be blamed on a witch

A servant falls down the stairs and quits after being seriously injured. This is quickly incorporated into the legend of the golden witch as Beatrice punishing those who don't believe in her

Sayo begins to invent more OCs, creating Ronove as a double for Genji, Virgilia as a double for Kumasawa, and the seven sisters of purgatory as anthropomorphizations of Kinzo's occult paperweights. Maria gives them all names. In exchange Sayo creates the Chiesters and Sakutaro for her as anthropomorphized versions of her rabbit figures and her favorite stuffed animal

Sayo becomes close friends with Jessica

Jessica begins practicing playing guitar secretly at school and wishes she could get away from her family and play in a band

After Rosa leaves Maria alone for so long that she's picked up by the police, a child protective services officer visits the family. Rosa assaults the officer, and in her rage at Maria rips Sakutaro apart and smashes one of Maria’s rabbits. The CPS officer opens a case to attempt to have Maria placed in state custody but Rosa uses her wealth and influence to get it dismissed

The president of the Marusoo company dies and Krauss manages to obtain the ingot he was given, acquiring physical proof that the Ushiromiya gold exists

Krauss makes a series of bad business investments and is repeatedly defrauded. He attempts to turn Rokkenjima into a resort but the project falls apart leaving him with a newly built guesthouse and no visitors. In his desperation he begins to embezzle Kinzo’s money and makes shady backroom deals offering up ownership of the island itself as collateral

1982:

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (14 going on 15) they are elected president of their middle school class

Asne, Belne, and Manon graduate from being Ushiromiya servants

Battler (14) does not attend the family conference. Sayo (15 pretending to be 12) begins to doubt whether he ever made her a promise at all or whether she merely misinterpreted him

1983:

Maria (6) begins elementary school

Erika (12 going on 13) begins middle school

Sayo (15 going on 16 pretending to be 12 going on 13) begins middle school

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (15 going on 16) they begin high school

Battler (14) does not attend the family conference. He sends letters to his cousins. He either does not write a letter to Sayo (16 pretending to be 13) or the letter he writes is stolen by George. She buries her grief by externalizing her feelings and pushing them onto her witch persona Beato. At the same time she begins experimenting with dressing as a boy and creates the Kanon persona with cooperation from Genji and Kumasawa. By pushing her love for Battler onto Beato and all of her negative emotions onto Kanon she is able to keep Shannon as a purely positive persona

George (20) has a marriage interview with a girl Eva (47) wants him to marry named Ayumi. Eva taunts Sayo (16 pretending to be 13) with the fact that the two of them can never be together

Sayo (16 pretending to be 13) accidentally spills soup on herself while serving Kinzo (80s) and removes her kneesock in front of him. He sees the scar from the amputation of her polydactyly and realizes that she is his child who survived the fall after all. Afterwards he begins to try to get closer to her and teaches her to shoot his guns

1984:

Jessica (15 going on 16) begins high school

Battler (15 going on 16) begins high school

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (16 going on 17) they are elected vice president of their high school class

Kinzo hangs a portrait of Beatrice with the witch’s epitaph in the main hall of the mansion in April. Sayo (16 going on 7 pretending to be 13 going on 14) revises her witchsona so that it is now a blond haired beauty matching both the woman in the portrait and Battler’s image of an ideal girl

George (21) and Sayo (17 pretending to be 14) begin to get closer and go on a few outings together. They are not quite dating yet but the possibility of romance is there

Jessica (16) becomes disturbed by the way Maria (7) talks about Beatrice and starts to investigate. Sayo (17 pretending to be 14) tells her a ghost story about the golden witch appearing in the VIP room at 2 in the morning. She then places a creepy doll on the bedside table in the room, gives instructions to Genji and Kumasawa to act as accomplices, and hides under the bed in the dark waiting. At 2 am when Jessica enters the VIP room an accomplice places a phone call to the room and plays a recording of Maria singing. Afterwards another accomplice in the basement shuts off the lights on the circuit breaker. Under the cover of darkness Sayo climbs out from under the bed, grabs the doll, cackles loudly, and leaves the room. After this experience Jessica decides to stop investigating

Genji gives Sayo (17 pretending to be 14) a hint regarding the epitaph by telling her that Kinzo’s beloved hometown is in Taiwan. Over the course of many months she works her way through the entire riddle and eventually on November 29 she finds the hidden gold. Genji dresses her in the witch dress, takes her to Kinzo, and finally tells him the truth about their relationship. Kinzo apologizes for everything, gives her the head’s ring and keels over dead. Afterwards Sayo orders Genji, Kumasawa, and Nanjo to keep these events secret and decides to continue working as a servant while waiting for Battler’s return

Sayo (17 pretending to be 14) is utterly horrified at learning the truth about herself. Her incestuous heritage, her body that cannot bear children, the bloodstained wealth of the Ushiromiyas seized with betrayal and murder, and her unwitting romantic relationships with her blood relatives all drive her to despair

Natsuhi (45) discovers that Kinzo is dead. Krauss (50) confesses to embezzling his father’s wealth and tells her that he may face criminal charges for it. She decides to maintain the illusion that he is alive until Krauss can fix their financial situation. She hides his body in the freezer in his study and orders Genji to begin lighting strong incense in the room to hide the smell

1985:

George (22) graduates from college. He begins working at his father’s company to gain business experience

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (17 going on 18) they are elected president of their high school class

Gohda is dismissed from his job working at a high end hotel due to a dispute between the staff and the management and his involvement in an affair. He has difficulty finding work in the restaurant industry and decides to apply to work for the Ushiromiyas. Natsuhi (46) hires him

Gohda tells Sayo (18 pretending to be 15) that witches do not exist. In order to force him to believe she sets up a situation where he and Genji are the only two people on the island. After Gohda finishes cleaning the kitchen and leaves, Genji creates an occult sculpture using paint and kitchen supplies then summons Gohda, pretends to have discovered it, and asks for help cleaning it up. Afterwards Gohda does not disrespect the witch out loud again

Jessica (17) asks Sayo (18 pretending to be 15) whether Kanon is single. Sayo is simultaneously overjoyed to be loved and disgusted at the incestuous nature of that love. Despite herself she begins to fall in love with Jessica as Kanon

Maria (8) attempts to teach Ange (4) about magic but Ange rejects her, driving her further into isolation

Natsuhi (46) manages to get through the family conference without anyone noticing that Kinzo is dead with the help of Genji (80s), Nanjo (80s), Kumasawa (80s), Sayo (18 pretending to be 15), and Krauss (51)

1986:

Sayo (18 going on 19 pretending to be 15 going on 16) completes middle school. In her complete despair she does not bother advancing to high school and chooses to drop out

Erika (15 going on 16) begins high school

Jessica (17 going on 18) runs for class president at her mother’s insistence and wins the election. She does not enjoy the position

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion (18 going on 19) they graduate high school and begin college

Jessica (18) gives Sayo (19 pretending to be 16) a mixtape containing songs that she likes to try to get closer to her as Kanon

George (23) takes Sayo (19 pretending to be 16) on a trip to Okinawa. She hopes that the trip will give her an opportunity to confess the truth to him but he doesn’t so much as touch her and the right moment to confess never arrives. He tells her that he plans to propose to her at the next family conference, completely driving her into a corner and leaving her with an unavoidable deadline coming up

Sayo (19 pretending to be 16) sets herself up on a culture festival date with Jessica (18). Afterwards Jessica confesses to her and Sayo rejects her. This is extraordinarily painful for her because she is in love with Jessica but she is convinced that the romance is doomed and too scared to try

Krauss (52) manages to put together an actually profitable real estate deal for once. He becomes convinced that if he can just hold on a little longer he will be able to repay all his debts and hide his criminal embezzlement

Hideyoshi (60s) attempts to list his company publicly. He fails to secure a majority stake and is attacked in a hostile takeover attempt, pushing him into a position where he needs to acquire an enormous amount of money to defend against it

Rudolf (45) attempts to expand his business overseas. He accidentally violates another major company’s intellectual property rights and enters a position where he needs to acquire an enormous amount of money to settle with them

Rosa’s (33) debt comes due, placing her in a position where she needs to acquire an enormous amount of money to pay it off

Battler (18) returns to the Ushiromiya family after Asumu’s parents die

Sayo (19 pretending to be 16) learns that Battler (18) will return and is driven completely mad by her hopeless situation and the combined weight of the family’s sins. She writes out countless murder suicide plans, creating fragment world after fragment world and transcends humanity, becoming a witch. Metafictionally, she becomes a miko of Lambdadelta who guarantees her power as long as her plan continues to have absolute certainty

Sayo (19 pretending to be 16) begins making extensive preparations for her murder game. She tests explosives from the stockpile under the island by blowing up the Rokkenjima shrine and practices firing guns extensively. She converts a billion yen worth of the gold to cash and sets up a series of postcards which will be sent to the families of the victims leading them to some of the money. Shortly before the family conference she places her murder fic in wine bottles and hurls it into the sea

Sayo (19 pretending to be 16) recruits accomplices for her plan. Kumasawa and Nanjo happily agree to help her after being told it will be a murder mystery prank. She tells Genji her full plans and he does not raise any objections to the idea of destroying the entire Ushiromiya family in a complex murder suicide scheme. Finally, she has Maria memorize her letter in advance in order to serve as a good messenger and tells her a magical account of her plans in which everyone will be resurrected in the golden land. Any other accomplices are specific to a particular fragment and are mostly recruited the day of

The following people gather for the Ushiromiya family conference:

Ange (5 and a half but likes to say she’s 6) stays at home

Kinzo (80s) who has been dead for over a year but is kept alive as a ghost by Natsuhi’s efforts

Krauss (52), Natsuhi (47), and Jessica (18)

Eva (49 going on 50), Hideyoshi (60s), and George (23)

Rudolf (45), Kyrie (40s), and Battler (18)

Rosa (33), and Maria (9)

Nanjo (80s), Genji (80s), Kumasawa (80s), and Gohda (?)

Sayo (19 pretending to be 16). In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised her she instead attends the conference as Lion (19)

Erika (16) falls off a boat near Rokkenjima. With the help of a miracle she could have drifted to the island

The family conference occurs and its events are locked away in a catbox forever when the mansion is destroyed in an explosion

Within the catbox the adults solve the epitaph and reach the room of the gold before Sayo can carry out her murder plans. A gunfight breaks out and Kyrie and Rudolf decide to slaughter everyone on the island, blow it all up, and run away with the bank card with a billion yen. Eva manages to stop them but is unable to save anyone but herself and decides to blow the island up anyway to hide the truth. She escapes to Kuwadorian and survives the explosion

In the alternate timeline where Natsuhi raised Sayo as Lion, Kinzo is still alive and he holds a funeral for the two Beatrices in the morning. In the evening during the family conference his children argue with him over Lion becoming the head until he decides to give them the witch’s epitaph and tell them that if they can solve it they can have the headship. His children find the gold and the same events play out with the addition that Kyrie also kills Kinzo and Lion

Sayo survives the gunfight, changes her mind about committing murder suicide, rescues Battler, and confesses almost everything to him. The two of them escape through the secret tunnel to the submarine base and attempt to take a motorboat away from the island. Sayo jumps into the water to drown herself using a gold ingot as a weight and Battler leaps in after her. She dies, and he almost drowns

After pulling himself out of the water in a haze Battler is hit by a car and temporarily loses his memories. He’s saved by Hachijou Ikuko who gives him the new name Hachijou Tohya and functionally kidnaps him. Metafictionally Ushiromiya Battler and Yasuda Sayo drown together and become trapped in purgatory. Sayo decides to begin tormenting him with her witch games until he eventually remembers the truth

In a popular alternate interpretation Sayo survives the suicide attempt, adopts the identity of Hachijou Ikuko, and resolves to live with Battler for the rest of her life without ever revealing the truth to him

1987:

Ange (5 going on 6) begins elementary school

Eva (50s) becomes the Ushiromiya family head and is tormented by police investigations and media attacks. Everyone believes her to be the true culprit. However the police are never able to find any evidence and the massacre is formally ruled an accident

After the massacre, the families of the victims receive the mysterious postcards Sayo mailed out. None of them claim the money

Eva sells the portion of Kinzo's occult library stored in Kuwadorian. This draws a significant amount of attention from the occult community as it contains many rare treasures

Two of the message bottles containing Legend and Turn wash up and are found by the police. Combined with the occult attention from Kinzo's library, this causes the crime to be regarded as the work of a witch in the public eye. A large majority of the message bottles are lost at sea and never found

Eva takes guardianship of Ange. She desperately wants to love her and become her mother but the two of them are both deeply broken from grief and Ange is unable to trust Eva which slowly poisons their relationship. At Tanabata Ange wishes to get her family back and convinces herself that the wish will only be fulfilled if she treats Eva as their murderer and never lets her into her heart

After a series of episodes where Eva screams and hits her for so long that she forgets why she was originally angry, Eva realizes that she’s going to destroy Ange’s life and decides to send her away rather than hurt her anymore. When Ange attempts to run away and go back to her grandfather’s house, Eva uses it as an excuse to send her to a boarding school

1980s:

Eva writes a secret diary describing the true events of the catbox

The true crime community around Rokkenjima becomes a large community of dedicated witch hunters. People begin forging message bottles to write fan fiction

Tohya slowly adjusts to his new life living with Ikuko and the two of them begin publishing mystery novels together. To celebrate completing their first book, Ikuko shares a third message bottle which she found on the beach containing Sayo’s full confession with him. He remembers his past as Battler but is unable to accept it as his own memories and resolves to continue his life as Tohya. In the alternate interpretation where Ikuko is Sayo she simply writes out her confession and claims to have found it in a message bottle

Tohya and Ikuko begin writing forgeries, continuing the metafictional narrative that began in Sayo’s two surviving games. Tohya falsely believes Eva to be the true culprit and begins his forgeries by writing Banquet, a narrative in which she murders everyone and survives. After reading his work, Eva realizes who he is, pays him a visit, and tells him the truth. She leaves the key to her diary with him in the hope that he might one day share it with Ange if she makes her way to him too

Tohya writes Alliance, End, and Dawn completing his metarrative and laying Sayo to rest. It’s not clear whether Requiem and Twilight are ever written in the real world at all and if so they’re certainly never published. He incorporates Ikuko's cat Bernkastel as the primary antagonist of the latter part of the story (as a sidenote, the existence of the Magical Bern-chan anime in-universe implies that Ikuko named her cat after her favorite magical girl)

1993:

Ange (11 going on 12) begins middle school

1990s:

Eva (50s) amasses an enormous fortune, surviving the collapse of the Japanese economy in the early 90s and becoming even richer than Kinzo once was. This is made even more impressive by the fact that she started with a small fraction of the capital he did

The witch hunter community unearths Rudolf and Kyrie’s criminal past and begins to accuse them of being the true culprits

Ange is utterly miserable and alone at boarding school where she is constantly bullied. She has Maria’s diary and begins to use it to retreat into delusions, summoning Maria’s ghost, Sakutaro, and the stakes as imaginary friends. Eventually she is attacked in a bullying incident so bad that it makes her want to kill everyone present and she is forced to abandon this coping mechanism when she realizes it provides her no power to affect reality

Eva, alone and dying of grief, becomes extremely sick and begins accusing people of poisoning her

1996:

Ange (14 going on 15) begins high school

1998:

Eva (62) dies, leaving her wealth to Ange (17 and a half but she likes to say she’s 18)

Ikuko acquires Eva’s diary and holds a witch hunter convention to unveil it. At the last minute she refuses to show it and walks out. This permanently defuses the enthusiasm around the Rokkenjima mystery by reminding the would-be witch hunters that what they are doing is nothing more than desecrating the memories of the dead

Ange (17 and a half but she likes to say she’s 18) attempts to contact Tohya (30). Tohya is too scared to see her directly but she meets with Ikuko who gives her the key to Eva’s diary and allows her to read the truth. She is driven completely into despair and jumps off the roof of a skyscraper but survives by landing in the safety netting. Metafictionally she goes on a vision quest to reconcile herself to the truth and become a witch of resurrection

After surviving the fall, Ange (17 and a half but she likes to say she’s 18) gives up the Ushiromiya fortune and adopts the new identity Kotobuki Yukari. She spends the rest of her life writing children’s books to pass on the lessons she’s learned

In an alternate timeline after surviving the fall Ange (17 and a half but she likes to say she’s 18) travels to Rokkenjima while accompanied by Amakusa, a bodyguard given to her by President Okonogi, and hunted by Kyrie’s younger sister Sumadera Kasumi. Shortly before reaching the island she deduces that Okonogi has cut a deal with the Sumaderas and Amakusa plans to kill both her and Kasumi in the isolated location. In order to save herself, she kills Amakusa before he has the opportunity. She embraces the mantle of the witch of truth and sets off on a journey to escape her fate for good, allowing the name Ushiromiya Ange to die just like in the main timeline

Decades Later

Ange uses her wealth from her career as a novelist to reestablish Fukuin House. When remodeling the building, she recreates the main hall of the Ushiromiya family mansion from memory even getting the artist who originally painted the portrait of Beatrice to create a duplicate for her

Tohya finally overcomes his fear of meeting his sister and identifies Kotobuki Yukari as Ange. He reaches out to her and the two are reunited at last. Metafictionally, Battler and Sayo reach the golden land and are freed from purgatory, ascending to heaven

#umineko #umineko no naku koro ni

[kamidukki]

[Rise and Shine] - Owen SSR Card Story Translation

Ft. Chloe and Akira

Until This Sweet Spell Breaks - Chapter 1

[Castle of Tears]

Chloe: Hm, maybe I should hang the ribbons here… Or would the flowers look better.

Akira: I think that looks great! The light purple of the lavender goes really well with the carpeting.

That day, the Sage’s Wizards were undertaking a mission at the Castle of Tears.

Chloe and I were decorating the hall in preparation for the Ceremony of Blessings and Gratitude when a figure suddenly appeared before us.

Owen: Ugh, what a drag…

Akira: Owen.

Chloe: Oh Owen! Do you wanna join us?

Owen: In doing what?

Chloe: Decorating the castle of course! The ceremony is tomorrow, isn’t it?

Chloe: The Master Sage and I wanted to help out any way we could, even without magic.

Owen: What a waste of time. Why do all this when I could single-handedly bless this castle right now?

Owen: Take a look and see. <<Quare Morito>>

As Owen casually uttered his spell, a heavy gloom fell upon us.

[Screen fills with miasma]

An eerie chill crept up our spines as the world rapidly bleached of color.

Akira: Huh!? All the lavender is withering up…!

Chloe: Y- You’re right! And the carpet is melting into black sludge…

Chloe: Um, Owen? Are you sure this is a blessing!?

Owen: To me it is.

Owen: I wonder how that slumbering beast will feel waking up to this.

Akira: Probably not very happy…

Chloe: In any case, we need to turn things back! <<Suispicibo Voitingoc>>!

Chloe: Oh, nothing changed…

Chloe: But we gotta do something or the walls are next! One more time…

Owen: Ahaha! Do you really think you stand a chance against my magic?

Owen: <<Cur Memini>>

[Miasma disappears]

Akira: Ah…

Chloe: Everything’s back to normal… What a relief.

Owen: It was always normal. The Master Sage aside, you couldn’t see through such a simple illusion?

Chloe: An illusion…? You mean all that withering and sludge stuff was fake?

Akira: I completely fell for it… It all seemed so real.

Owen: Hehe. Of course it did.

Chloe: Owen…

Owen: Aww, did I make you mad? Are you going to cry? Rage over how pathetically weak you are?

Chloe: Not at all! I was actually struck by how amazing you are!

Owen: What.

Chloe: I was totally convinced the castle was crumbling to pieces. It was terrifying!

Chloe: You’re so good at everything, Owen. I bet if you really blessed this castle, you could put that witch to rest for the next few centuries!

Owen: Hmph… As if I’d do something like that. I only care for torment and chaos.

Owen: What good is attending a ceremony when I could be spreading curses and misfortune?

Chloe: Ok, but don’t you ever get in a party mood?

Chloe: Like, you wanna get all dressed up and wear cute accessories for a special occasion?

Until This Sweet Spell Breaks - Chapter 2

Owen: What are you going on about… How annoying.

Akira: (Is Chloe trying to convince Owen to join tomorrow’s ceremony…?)

Akira: (Actually, knowing him, he probably just wants to play dress-up, but this could be my chance…!)

Akira: Yeah, there’s nothing like looking your best! It really makes you want to get out there and put some good in the world.

Chloe: Right!? You already look great in that outfit, but what if we made you look even better?

Owen: …Hmph.

Owen: Fine, you can try your luck, but I doubt you’ll change my mind.

Owen: I’ve nothing better to do anyways.

Akira & Chloe: Hooray!

Chloe: Alrighty then… <<Suispicibo Voitingoc>>!

As Chloe cast his spell, an assortment of accessories appeared out of thin air including golden buttons, ribbons, red and blue brooches, and lace.

Chloe: Okay, what do you think of this ribbon? The color is so chic right, and it’d be just perfect on you.

Akira: Oh, what about these fake nails? Your hands are really pretty after all.

Owen: I like this one. Its color reminds me of festering meat. And that one looks like a melted eyeball.

Crossing his legs, Owen sat down between us in the hall as we fired suggestions at him.

Although he acted bored, yawning and waving his hand at us from time to time, he didn’t seem to mind our attention at all.

Owen: Now I’m feeling a bit hungry. You don’t happen to have any edible accessories, do you?

Chloe: E- Edible…? I- I don’t think so…

Owen: Must I do everything myself? <<Cur Memini>>

As Owen cast his spell, an assortment of buttons, ribbons, and brooches appeared in our hands.

Chloe: These are gorgeous… Not to mention, they smell really good too, like candy.

Owen: These are sweets I made myself using magic.

Owen: If you’re curious, why not take a little bite? I can’t guarantee you’ll leave with your teeth intact though.

Unconsciously, Chloe and I made eye contact.

With the sugary scent of the accessories enticing our senses, the two of us cautiously lifted one and took a bite.

Chloe: …! This is a cookie!

Chloe: It’s so sweet and delicious… Oh, and this ribbon is made of chocolate!

Akira: You’re right! This brooch tastes just like a madeleine…!

Owen: Hehe. Of course they do; I made them after all. If you’re interested, then you’re more than welcome to keep taking some.

Owen: Why not try this corsage and ring too?

Akira: Wow, really?

Owen: Really. If I can get on your good sides, I’ll be able to eat sweets whenever I want.

Chloe: Wow wow wow! This is incredible! I can’t believe you’re sharing these with us…

Chloe: Hey, can I show the others too?

Owen: Be my guest. They’re yours after all.

Chloe: Yippee! I’ll be back in a jiffy then!

And with that, Chloe happily took off.

Then, I felt a hand reach from behind me, grazing my neck.

Until This Sweet Spell Breaks - Chapter 3

Akira: …!?

Lightly touching the base of my throat, Owen plucked the brooch off my collar.

Owen: What’s wrong? Did you think I’d chop your head off?

Akira: Ah um… N- no. You just startled me, that’s all…

Biting into the brooch, Owen slid his gaze towards me.

It was impossible to tell what lay beneath his expression. However, his eyes seemed to hold a twinkle of delight which inadvertently calmed me down.

Akira: (...That’s good. It seems like Owen’s in a better mood now.)

Akira: (Maybe he really was bored earlier and that’s why he went along with us…)

Owen: Don’t get me wrong. This whole ceremony thing is still a pain.

Akira: Huh!? D- Did I say that out loud…?

Owen: You’re like an open book, but it seems you still can’t read me at all.

Owen: How simple-minded do you think I am? Did you really think you could change my mind so easily?

Akira: T- That wasn’t my intention…!

Owen: Is that so? Then why don’t you eat this for me?

Suddenly, Owen thrusted a candy ribbon at me.

Pressing it against my lips, he gave me no chance to protest before forcing it in.

Akira: Mmphf…!

Akira: Mm… It’s delicious… Like candy…

Owen: Haha... Just as I thought. You really don’t get me at all.

Akira: Huh…?

Owen: Did you actually think I’d go through the trouble of making all these sweets to share with you?

Owen: On the contrary, I simply cast a little spell that turns things into sweets for just a moment. I’m sure it’ll break any minute now and all those pretty accessories will revert back in the pits of your stomach.

Owen: I wonder… Will your teeth and tongue be alright?

With a look that seemed to pierce right through me, Owen ripped another button off my clothes.

As he bit into the gold-green metal with a crunch, my face paled.

Akira: Y- You’re joking… right?

Owen: I suppose you’ll find out soon enough. I’ll be fine, but I wonder how a human or a weaker wizard would fare.

Akira: Oh no…! I have to let Chloe know…!

Owen: I’d worry for yourself first and foremost.

His mocking laughter drew me in as he dangled a sweet smelling bracelet before me.

Owen: Take another for the road. I’m sure you’ll like this one too.

Akira: N- no, I’m good! I’m already full after all…!

Owen: Aw, don’t be shy. Until this spell breaks, why don’t you enjoy some sweet, sweet candy with me?

Owen: That way, I’ll get to see the look on your face when your stomach finally bursts.

Remember the Taste - Card Episode

[Courtyard]

Akira: Owen? What are you doing in the courtyard?

Owen: Searching for things to turn into sweets.

Akira: You're... what?

Akira: (Oh right. Owen did turn all those accessories into sweets the other day...)

Owen: Hehe, so you remembered? The two of you looked oh so happy, clamoring on and on about how delicious they were.

Owen: Gnawing away at buttons and brooches without a care in the world.

Akira: The cookies and chocolates were really great...

Akira: Although having to worry about whether or not they'd revert back to metal and thread... not so much.

Owen: That was the best part. Seeing your fear and panic was absolutely hilarious.

Owen: Perhaps I should create a second course, although this time, I'll have them revert back as you're eating them.

Akira: Huh!?

Owen: I wonder what I should use. Bitter herbs? Sour fruit perhaps?

Owen: Maybe I'll mix them up in a batch of sweets just for you and Chloe.

Akira: I- I think we'd be more than happy with a regular old pastry...

Home Screen Voice Line

“Hey, were you foolishly hoping for a gift from me? I wonder, what have you given me? What have you done for me? Why don’t you tell me what’s on your mind? Depending on your answer, I might just consider it.”

#mhyk #mahoyaku #まほやく #魔法使いの約束

[kamidukki]

Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 7 (Part 3)

Following is part 3 of my translation of Chapter 7 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains Episode 7-112 to 7-116. This concludes Chapter 7.

Main storyline spoilers after the cut.

Episode 7-112

Idia: G-Get me outta heeeeeeere!! W-Why are Malleus-Shi and a Styx unit having a sudden death match in the middle of school?? And that getup, don't tell me… Malleus-Shi overblotted…!?

Ortho: Uwaaah!? The sky's splitting apart!?

Idia: Eep! W-What is it now!?

Malleus: …This dream is beginning to fall apart.

Ortho: Fall apart?

Malleus: You are not meant to exist within this dream. And now that you have appeared here before your older brother, his "happy ending" will be no more. Little Shroud, I see now I've no reason to fight you. I can simply let you be consumed by the abyss, together with this crumbling dream.

(Malleus teleports away)

Idia: Huh!? W-Waaait! Malleus-Shi, t-take me with yoooou!!!!

Ortho: …Now I understand. I- This humanoid version of Ortho, I only exist because of what happened that day. And by being here in this dream world, where big brother is supposed to have his happy ending, I'm causing a temporal paradox!

(The Darkness appears)

Idia: Ugh! The heck's this black goop!? It- It's dragging me down…!

Ortho: Big brother! Here, take my hand! And don't let go!!

Idia: Dude, you're gonna rip my arm off…!!

(An alarm beeps)

Head Engineer: Or-kun, can you hear me? You need to get out of there!

Idia: Is that… Is that mom!?

Ortho: But I can't leave without big brother!

Head Engineer: The spell's formulation is being rapidly rewritten. If you stay there any longer, we'll lose your signal and you won't be able to come back! This is a direct order: retreat at once!!

Ortho: Ugh…!

Idia: Ortho? This unit is… Ortho…? AUGH! M-My head…!

Ortho: Big brother! No, don't let go of my hand…! Ah-!

(Idia is dragged down into the Darkness)

Idia: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!

Ortho: BIG BROTHER! I promise… I promise I'll come save you…!

Episode 7-113

Idia: What is… this place…? It's so cold… and dark… and lonely. This feels so… familiar. …I…

???: Oh, come on! We had that big, emotional goodbye, and now you're coming back already? Boooo. I dunno what's going on, but I can already tell this is gonna be a pain in the ass.

Idia: Huh? ….WHAT THE!? A PH-PHANTOM….!?

Ortho (Phantom): Yo, big bro. How's it going? Welcome to the Underworld! It's a little dark, a little gloomy, but hey, what are you gonna do?

Idia: Wh-…. WHAAAAAAT!? W-What in the actual hell, man!? First that virtual bishounen and that Styx unit kept calling me "big brother"… and now this friggin' huge ass phantom is calling me "big bro"!? M-My little brother is a good kid, and he goes to school at Royal Sword Academy… I think I'd remember having a pair of uber intense brothers like you guys, thank you!! Even for a nightmare this is way too much! Please, if this is a dream, just let me wake up already!!

Ortho (Phantom): Huh? I go to Royal Sword Academy? Ahhahahaha! Now that sounds like a nightmare to me. Or a delusion, even. Sorry, but Ortho's stuck in this gross ass pit, not at some gaudy school.

Idia: Y-You're lying… Ortho's an extrovert with tons of friends, and he-

Ortho (Phantom): Friends? Oh, yeah. I got lots of those. They're all phantoms, though, and all they ever do is moan and groan. Not big talkers, those guys.

Idia: That's impossible. T-There's no way Ortho's stuck in the Underworld! We're not even supposed to go down here! Ortho is… My little brother is…!!

Ortho (Phantom): …Big bro. It's not your fault I'm here. Stop blaming yourself already. Remember what you promised me? You said you wouldn't give up, you said you'd keep pushing on and fulfill all our dreams. Are you really just gonna curl up in a little ball and stay down here forever?

Idia: Our dreams…? …Augh..! My… head…!

(Idia has a flashback)

Ortho: We can leave for real this time and go far away.

Idia: …Just leave it to your big bro.

(The flashback ends)

Idia: Haaah, haaah… I-I remember now… This is where I…! A-aauugh!! That's right, there is where I… Aauuugh…!

(Idia lets out a guttural scream as he remembers everything)

Idia: …..How… How could I forget… How could I forget something so important to me… I remember… everything…!

Episode 7-114

Idia: This is where I overblotted… Me and Ortho were aiming for the stars but we… but our classmates smoked us… The fuck did I tell him "just leave it to your big bro" for… My little brothers are always having to swoop in and save the day for me. I'm such a fucking loser…

(Idia has a flashback)

Ortho: I need you to help me save the world, Idia Shroud!

(The flashback ends)

Idia: …Listen, I dunno know what the hell's going on, but I do know Ortho needs my help. I have to get out of here… I have to find him.

Ortho (Phantom): Oh-hoh, didja finally wake up? That's great and all, but, uh, aren't you forgetting one teensy-weensy, but ever so crucial, little tiny detail?

Idia: Huh?

Ortho (Phantom): You know the gate's only supposed to be one way, right? And as the King of the Underworld, I can't just let spirits come in and out here like they own the place. Don't wanna look bad in front of the other phantoms.

Idia: Heh heh… You got some balls calling yourself the King of the Underworld. You're the one who's forgetting something here, my guy. You remember that curse you have? No wait- that blessing. The one that burns all your blot… Well, I got it too. This place is like one massive buff for my ATK and Magic stats. I'm broken, dude! *breathes in, breathes out* Okay, just gotta envision, like, my ultimate form…! HAAAAAA!!!

(Idia forces himself to overblot)

Ortho (Phantom): What, you wanna fight me?

Idia: Okay, you little snot nosed brat. Your big bro's gonna show you who's boss!

Ortho (Phantom): Augh…! N-No, how could I lose…! The hell's going on!? It's like all the blot's under his control!?

Idia: Boom-bada boom, boom, boom! Ha ha ha! Oh, please. You gonna start crying for your mommy? If that's all you got, forget about calling yourself king, you cocky little shit. Imma take my throne back and you can be my substitute whenever I'm gone. New Achievement Unlocked: "King of the Underworld" title earned! Ahh Ha ha!!

Ortho (Phantom): Uuugh…!!

Idia: Aaaah haa ha! Aaaah ha haa! Ah-Auuughh… *cough cough* …. Haaah, haaah…. That's right. I'm not gonna let you be king of this gross place forever. And that's why I can't stay here forever, either. I have to go. Game, Set, Match. Gate to the Underworld!!

(The gate opens and Idia escapes)

Ortho (Phantom): ….Take care, big bro. All the stars in the sky are waiting for you out there.

Episode 7-115

(Beeep beeep)

Idia: …..Ugh, would ya shuddup… Who is it?

(Idia answers the phone)

???: Ah, you finally picked up. It’s morning already, come on.

Idia: …Who are you?

Ortho?: Who am I…? What, did you forget your own little brother? It’s me, Ortho.

Idia: Ortho? …Guess it was all just a dream….. Heh….. Heh heh heeeheeehee!!

Ortho?: Uh, is everything okay?

Idia: Those crazy good drop rates and pulls I've been getting, Muscle Red not giving up gaming anymore, me going to orientation in person…. It was aaaaalll just a dream! Yup, it was just 100% my otaku fantasies!

Ortho?: Umm… What the heck are you talking about?

Idia: Uh-uh, that's my line, bro. There's no way in hell my little brother would go to Royal Sword Academy, all the dumbass rainbows and sparkles would make him SICK. I only have two little brothers: The humanoid one that goes to NRC with me, and the other one who's down in the Underworld!!

Ortho?: !! W-Wait, big bro! Just listen to me!

Idia: I'm soooo sorry, but the only people I'm okay with calling me "big bro" are anime and video game characters. Like, who even are you? And who's in charge of this gross ass dream? Is this a hallucinogenic spell? Was I kidnapped by some evil org and they've got, like, a brain washing helmet on me? Whatever's going on, you guys need to get yourselves a new scenario writer, stat. 'Cause I mean, really? Resetting the dream just 'cause I didn't get the Good End? That is beyond lame. Listen, I don't care what happens. I'm the only one who gets to decide if I get my happy ending or not!! Expect a strongly worded letter from me sent to your customer service department!! Bye!!

(Idia hangs up the phone)

Episode 7-116

Idia: …You there, Ortho?

Ortho: Welcome back, big brother. I'm surprised you made it back here all by yourself. We had a lot of trouble reentering your dream on our end.

Idia: Hey, Ortho. Lemme, uhh.. apologize first. I know I've hurt you a lot, and I… I'm really sorry.

Ortho: Before you continue, there's something I want to say, too… I went to outer space all by myself! And I had this totally awesome battle with Malleus-san, it was so cool. This whole time while you've been asleep, I've been going on all these amazing adventures. I bet they'd even put the hero of Star Rogue to shame! Now don't you think there's something else you should be saying to me besides "I'm sorry"?

Idia: …Ortho, that's amazing. I can tell how hard you've been working. You're, like, the coolest guy in the world in my book. You're kind of making your big brother look bad here, though.

Ortho: Heh heh! Are you even surprised though? Don't forget… I'm the world's foremost humanoid, made by the one and only mad genius himself!

Idia: Heh. Yeah, you're right. Maybe one day you and me really will take over the whole galaxy together… Joking, of course. Ok, with that out of the way…. Uhhh, I remember going to sleep and all, but could you maybe explain what the hell is going on!??

Idia: *siiiiiiiigh* I wanna say I totally understand everything you just said… But my brain, like, short circuited after you said mom went through all my stuff. Only other thing I've understood so far is Malleus-Shi went overboard with the cheat codes.

Ortho: M-Mom had too! It was an emergency! Please don't feel too down about it.

Idia: You gotta be kidding me, dude. There's no way she didn't see that and oh yeah that too… Uuuggh… Why… Why me… WHAT DID I DO TO DESERVE THIS!? I'm just an innocent bystander! I didn't even friggin' go to the farewell party!! So why!! Why did my mom have to look through my computer!! …Ugh, just make it make sense, man… I feel like I just took 50 billion points of psychic damage….

(Idia collapes to the ground)

Ortho: Erm, I mean, yeah. I don't think anybody could've seen this coming, and it's unfortunate what happened… B-But it's okay! Mom didn't even really say anything about what she saw on your PC, so…

Idia: NOOOOO! Stop, stop, stop! Her being nice about it just makes it a million times worse!! You guys are lucky I can't accumulate blot or else I'd totally be overblotting right now!!! Fucking hell, Malleus-Shiiiii!!! Oh, he is so not getting away with this! I bet he thinks he's soooo cool, but I'm not gonna rest until he's on his hands and knees with snot and tears running all over his face begging me for mercy! Now, let's see. What'll I do to him…. Eh heh heh heh!!

Ortho: Uh-oh, I'm almost scared to ask what you're planning… Heh. He really picked the wrong guy to mess with.

Idia: Heh heh… Dude's never even seen my final form before, and now that my Underworld training arc's over he doesn't even stand a chance. You wait right there for me, Malleus Draconia… I'm gonna expose every single fucking weakness you have and make you PAY!!!

Part 1

Part 2

(TL Note: The flashback lines I took from the official ENG translation. Also took some lines from Disney's "Hercules" for Ortho in some parts.)

#twst #twisted wonderland #malleus draconia #ortho shroud #idia shroud #the ruler of the abyss #twst book 7 #is that foreshadowing in idia's dialogue 👀

[kamidukki]

One of the most interesting moments of the game. I think many people were on Ace's (and Epel's) side too when this scene came out, understandably so.

Now thinking back on it, Rook's action isn't that outrageous, nor do his reasoning. It only becomes such after the (one margin) result is out. Suppose that VDC lost (or win) by some significant numbers margin, the topic of their own vote wouldn't have come up. Rook would probably just console (or celebrate with) Vil and his underclassmen, and that's it. He most likely would still be keeping his secret, that he's a hardcore Neige's fan, to himself.

All in all, I think this part is such a brilliant way to reveal Rook's adoration towards Neige. Despite the loss, it still manages to be deeply entertaining.

Rook Info Compilation part 18: Rook in the Main Story (pt2)

Rook declares the team's VDC performance was their finest yet, only to vote for Royal Sword Academy, instead.

Rook claims that his adoration of Neige had nothing to do with his choice, but Ace does not believe him.

Vil defends Rook’s decision, saying that Rook was the only person on their team who voted impartially.

Rook explains that as his position was in the back, he was in the perfect sport to observe the team’s progress, and knew that the strain that they were all performing under made it impossible to compensate for their shortcomings.

Epel also refuses to believe Rook’s claims but Vil points out that Rook didn’t say anything about it being their most beautiful performance: he gave the group the most generous praise he could for doing their best under the circumstances, but ultimately could not vote for them over Royal Sword Academy.

Rook has a photo album that he describes as a record of his life’s work and refuses to share with even Vil, which is later revealed to be filled with official photos of Neige LeBlanche.

Rook praises Neige from the very beginning of Book 5 and says, “His smile is entirely unlike Vil’s. It is unaffected, like a tiny flower blooming in an open field.”

At the end of Book 5 it is revealed to everyone that Rook writes Neige letters under the pseudonym “R,” attends every single one of his meet-and-greet events, buys each of Neige’s photos at fan events and composes poems to share his impressions of each picture.Neige had always assumed that Rook was female.

Kalim encourages Rook to shake hands with Neige, but he cannot bring himself to do it and begins to weep.

Speaking to Neige, Rook says, “Your work has shone a light upon my life and allowed me to live with hope in my heart.” Neige says that Rook carries himself very differently at NRC than he does at the meet-and-greet events, so he had not recognized him, and Rook says that he will be writing another letter to encapsulate his thoughts about Neige’s performance at the VDC.

Vil says that despite knowing Rook for two years, he never realized that Rook was one of Neige’s fans.

Rook is one of Neige's “most dedicated fans,” aware of the hardships Neige has faced how he donates most of his pay to charity despite how Neige himself has never divulged his personal history.

Neige saves Rook and Epel during Glorious Masquerade and Rook seems to become shy after reuniting with Neige later on, sliding across the screen to hide partially behind Epel when Neige greets him.

[kamidukki]

Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 7 (Part 2)

Following is part 2 of my translation of Chapter 7 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains Episode 7-107 to 7-111.

Main storyline spoilers after the cut.

Episode 7-107

Ortho: Pretty much our only option is to try and convince Malleus-san to bring down the domain himself and let everybody go. 'Cause if you destroy a server, you'll just end up destroying all the data its got inside it, too. How about we do something like go up to the barrier and shout, "Hey, Malleus-san! You're making your grandma cry over here!!" You know, like they do in those old crime dramas.

Chief: …We'll certainly reach out to Queen Maleficia, at any rate.

Head Engineer: I wish it were as simple as just getting an overblotter's family member to talk them out of it, honey. Then Styx wouldn't always have so much trouble on our hands.

Ortho: So what, are you guys saying we should give up?

Head Engineer: Now, now, Or-kun. Did you forget what you just said?

Ortho: Huh? What do you- You mean when I was talking about trying to convince Malleus to let everybody go?

Head Engineer: Ding, ding, ding, we have a winner!

Ortho: But mom, you said so yourself, it's not as simple as just talking an overblotter out of it.

Head Engineer: As long as you've got even the slightest chance of success, it's worth a try. Besides… I've already thought of a different approach.

Ortho: A different approach?

Head Engineer: Here, can you tell me what this is, Or-kun?

Ortho: Hm? That's a video of… big brother!? Where'd you even get this from? Waaaait a second… That's weird. Where's my maintenance dock? We kept it in big brother's room even after I enrolled and moved into my own room… No way, is this a video of…!?

Head Engineer: That's right. This is a live feed, direct from Idia's dream.

Ortho: Whaaaaaat!??

Head Engineer: Finding a back door's a cinch as long as you understand the source code. And that goes for magical domains, too! And now that we're inside… We can make contact with all the dreamers without Malleus finding out.

Ortho: I-I mean, I understand what you're saying, but still… That's crazy. It feels like I blinked and you already analyzed the domain and even figured out the address for big brother's dream.

Head Engineer: Heh heh! So what do you think? This is the power of human innovation right here! Just you watch, I'm going to dig up each and every address and make my own admin system right under his nose! Hehhehehe….!

Chief: She's been like this ever since she went through the logs of your fight with Malleus… She's even got the data processing and engineering departments going into over drive.

Ortho: Gotcha. She's probably got a grudge against Malleus for saying her tech was pathetic. Heh, sounds like something mom would do. She and big brother really are a lot alike… But I'm glad.

Chief: About what?

Ortho: Big brother looks like he's having a lot of fun in his dream. I know it sounds weird, but I'm just glad to see him so happy.

Chief: I see. Yes, I understand how you feel.

Episode 7-108

Head Engineer: Anyways, it looks like everybody on that island is having the same kind of nice, pleasant dreams as your big brother. Everyone's fast asleep, getting lots of good rest while they're dreaming… Their magic and strength reserves must be all topped up by now, and that's why I'm thinking they're probably going to get bored of these dreams pretty soon. …Well, maybe.

Ortho: So this different approach you were talking about, it's… We're going to make contact with the dreamers and have them take care of Malleus-san for us!?

Head Engineer: Correct! If we can't do anything out here, our only choice is to fight him from the inside!

Ortho: Whaaaat!? No way, that'll never… Wait, but maybe… If we can make contact with the dreamers, then maybe this really will work. If you give up before you even try, your probability of success will be stuck at zero forever. Even if you have a 0.001% probability at succeeding, at long as it's not a zero, then you've got a chance to take that 0.001% and transform it into a one hundred. So there's no reason not to give it a shot. Okay, let's do this. I'll dive into the magical circuitry, enter big brother's dream, and…

Head Engineer: Hang on there, Or-kun.

Ortho: What's the matter? I'm just going to make contact with big brother, that's all. It's not like it's going to be dangerous or anything…

Chief: I'll take over from here, head engineer. We do have one major concern about your making contact with Idia.

Ortho: What?

Chief: Your brother might reject the truth- …he might reject you.

Ortho: …!

Chief: You noticed how your maintenance dock was gone from his room, remember? I'm sure you understand perfectly well what all that implies. You might just end up getting hurt very badly again, Ortho.

Ortho: …

Chief: We're going to reach out to some psychological experts so we can explain the situation as calmly as possible to him, without anyone having to get hurt-

Ortho: You don't have to worry.

Chief / Head Engineer: Huh?

Ortho: I know my big brother. I know as soon as he sees me he'll go, like, "OMG this bishounen humanoid inside my computer is asking me for help?!? Wait, don't tell me what happens next, I've seen this same thing play out like a billion times before in my light novels!! The time's finally come, right!? I'm finally going to become the chosen one!!?"

Chief: Erm, I'm not sure he'd say all… that…

Head Engineer: Honestly, I can see it.

Ortho: Well, regardless how he reacts, I know big brother will listen to us. He's Idia Shroud, the mad genius raised by the chief and head engineer of Styx, remember? Instead of trying to be amicable here and taking the long way around, I say we take a shortcut, instead!

Episode 7-109

Gloomurai: dude you killed it today

Gloomurai: lets hit up that new tundra map tomorrow~

Gloomurai: k im gonna bounce. ggs!

<muscle red has logged off>

Idia: Maaan, that dungeon raid today was just… The drop rate was friggin' insane!!! I might be able to max out the armor for both my main and my sub-job now. Come to think of it, I also got three event SSRs in a row for my oshi this week, too… Uh-oh, now I'm getting a bad feeling about this. I'm never this lucky… Just watch, all my stuff's gonna crash so hard tomorrow I won't even be able to recover any of my data.

(Idia gets an incoming call on his PC)

Idia: Huh? Ortho's trying to face time me? Wonder why he's calling my online game account, that's weird. Wait, does Ortho even know about my Gloomurai account? And why can't he just call my phone? …Whatever.

(Idia accepts the call)

Idia: Hey, what's up? You need help with a game or something?

Ortho: Hi, big brother. How are you?

Idia: O-Ortho!? W-What's going on!?? I never knew you were into cosplay!?! Dude, that's like a god-tier setup, I can't process all this-… Wait, did you just call me big brother?

Ortho: You and I haven't met before. At least, not in this world. My name is Ortho. I'm a magical humanoid - an autonomous AI made by you.

Idia: …A magical what now?

Episode 7-110

Ortho: You and me haven't met before. At least, not in this world. My name is Ortho. I'm a magical humanoid - an autonomous AI made by you.

Idia: …A magical what now? O-Ooooh, okay, okay, I get it. You're just using an avatar, aren't you? Man, you nearly gave me a heartattack there. I see you went for the cool bishounen look.

Ortho: *sigh* I guess it's going to take some time for you to awaken…

Idia: Wait, what? Awaken? What…?

Ortho: It's okay, I don't blame you. I'm sure you've got a great life going on in there, don't you?

Idia: Umm, you're losing me here, my guy. Is this about some new anime or something?

Ortho: You need to listen to me. You've already realized there's something "off" about this world, haven't you? So I'll get straight to the point: I need you to help me save the world, Idia Shroud!

Idia: ….!! OMG this bishounen humanoid inside my computer is asking me for help?!? Wait, don't tell me what happens next, I've seen this same thing play out like a billion times before in my light novels!! The time's finally come, right!? I'm finally going to become the chosen one!!?

Ortho: BWAHAHA-!!! I mean! Ahem. That's right, big brother. The time has come. It's time for you to awaken from this dream!

Idia: Dream…? Augh!?

(The room starts to warp)

Idia: Humanoid… big brother… Ortho… No, that's all wrong! My little brother is… A-Auugh! My head feels like it's about to explode…! Ortho goes to Royal Sword Academy… No he…! He goes to Night Raven College with me…. My little brother… On that day, my little brother-…!

(Idia's phone starts to ring)

Idia: Ortho's calling me…!? Shit, my head…!

Ortho?: Big bro!? He's trying to trick you! He's a phoney, he's not real!

Idia: A-A phoney!? …Augh!! Where are all these… memories coming from…!?

Ortho?: That phoney's trying to brainwash you, big bro! Don't listen to him!

Ortho: Argh, I knew this spell would have some sort of countermeasures built into it. Looks like the NPCs are programmed to stop any dreamers when they try and wake up. That kind of autonomous magic is really high-level stuff… Guess there's a good reason Malleus-san is considered one of the top five mages in the world!

Ortho?: You wait right there for me, okay? I'm coming!

(The Darkness appears)

Ortho: W-What's all that black mushy stuff!? Oh no, is it.. Is it blot!?

Ortho?: Sorry I kept you waiting, big brother. I'm here. Everything will be okay now.

Idia: Or…Ortho?

Episode 7-111

Ortho: Don't tell me, big brother thinks that black gunk is "Ortho"? Get away from that thing, big brother! Run!!

Ortho?: It's okay now, big bro. You're just tired from playing video games for too long, that's all. Come over here and rest for a while.

Idia: U-ugh… O-Okay..

Ortho: Crap, he can't hear me anymore. Big brother run away! Get away from theeeeeere!!!

Idia: …Huh!? Why… Why am I wearing my ceremonial robes? And why am I in the courtyard?

???: Is that you, Shroud?

Idia: Eep!

Malleus: So it was you. …What ever is the matter? You look like you've seen a ghost.

Idia: M-Malleus-Shi… why are you here?

Malleus: Why…? Orientation's just about to start, isn't it?

Idia: O-Orientation?

Malleus: …Heh. Are you still half-asleep? You remind me of Silver, a student from my dorm.

Idia: Hold up… Orientation…? That was months ago…

Malleus: What do you mean? This is the first time you'll be attending orientation as a dorm warden.

Idia: U-Uhhh… Really?

Malleus: You're a strange one, you know that? Come, and let us make our way to the mirror chamber. It won't do for two wardens - and two third years at that - to arrive late.

Idia: Man, it feels like I'm forgetting something suuuper important right now… Whatever.

(something thuds in the distance)

Malleus / Idia: !?

Idia: There's a bright light in the sky… The heck is that… I-Is it a meteor!? Uhhh, doesn't it look like it's coming straight for us!? It's coming straight for us, right!??

Malleus: …What on earth is it? I don't… I don't know what it is.

Idia: Dude, why aren't you freaking out right now!? We need to RUN!! It's gonna be game over if that thing hits us. N-No, it's too late!! I need to put up a forcefield-! Uwaaaaa!!

(Something crashes into the ground)

Idia: PLEASE tell me my dead man switch fired and deleted all my shit, please, please, please… Wait.. I'm… alive?

???: Life force resonance tracking was a success. The target has been located.

Ortho: Sorry I took so long to get here, big brother!

Idia: W-Who the heck are you!? Ah! That's the Styx emblem! Are you a new power suit model that mom made? But why are you calling me big brother…?

Ortho: I'll explain later. Now get behind me! There's a scary guy glaring at us.

Malleus: What is the meaning of this, Little Shroud? You are not meant to exist within this dream. Just how did you weasel your way in here?

Ortho: Heh. Don't you remember what you told me, Malleus Draconia-san? You said I'm like a ghost. And a ghost doesn't need any reason to be able to move between dimensions and spacetime, now does it?

Malleus: Heh… Ah ha ha ha! You have my praise, for being able to astound me twice now. However, for you to have the gall to tread not once, but twice into my castle without my permission… You are brazen beyond belief, you little automaton! Stand back, you fools!

Part 1

#twst #twisted wonderland #malleus draconia #idia shroud #ortho shroud #the ruler of the abyss #twst book 7

[kamidukki]

Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss – Chapter 7 (Part 1)

Following is part 1 of my translation of Chapter 7 of Book 7: The Ruler of the Abyss. This part contains Episode 7-101 to 7-106

Main storyline spoilers after the cut.

Episode 7-101

Silver: Y-You’re…!

Idia: Can’t start a boss raid without a tank, and now we’re all set to go. The opening act’s DONEZO. Time for the main event! Heehee!

Sebek: J-Just what on earth is going on here!? Have we awakened from the dream?

Idia: Nah, we're still in the dream, sorry. Well, it's not really a dream. It's just a magic domain that Malleus-Shi created. I mean, just look at that armor you're wearing, dude. No way you can take that into the real world with you. 'Cause it's not really real, it's just, like, "info".

Silver: W-Wait, how do you know all this? Do you remember what happened before we fell asleep?

Idia: Uhh, it's not that I remembered everything. It's just I got a good handle on what's going on, I guess you could say.

Yuu: What do you mean?

Idia: H-Hold your horses, I'll explain later. But first… uhmm.. Ahh… I haven't really ever talked to you guys, right? Name's Idia Shroud, I'm the dormwarden over at Ignihyde.

Sebek: Ah, that's it! I was wondering why you seemed so familiar. Now I remember, you are indeed Ignihyde's warden! You appeared in that strange, plank-like form at my orientation, and I dare say this is the first time we've ever properly met.

Idia: R-Right. I just remoted into your guys' orientation on my tablet.

Sebek: And I am Sebek Zigvolt of Diasomnia! A first year of Class D, student number 33! This dullard here is my dormmate, Silver! He is a second year!

Idia: G-geez he sounds like a friggin' air horn!! Feels like my eardrums are about to explode. Hard to believe Malleus-shi's ears aren't totally busted from having to listen to that all the time...

Silver: My apologies, Idia Senpai. We'll try to keep it down. Anyways, I don't think you have to worry about your eardrums, since we're inside a dream and all, but… Ah, that's right! Everyone, stay alert!! Idia Senpai, Grim, Yuu, get behind us!

Idia: Wait, wot? Why? AUGH! Ow ow ow! I'm getting squeezed to death in a meathead-and-armor sandwich!!

Grim: Huh? What's goin' on, Silver?

Silver: Now that Idia Senpai's awake, it's only a matter of time before the Darkness appears and tries to lull him into a deeper sleep.

Grim: Crap, yer right! An' ya know what else… I bet Malleus is gonna pop up any second now and go into his stupid "HaVe yOu aWaKeNeD!?" spiel!

Sebek: The Darkness aside, I fear without Sir Lilia's aide our odds against Lord Malleus are… Nay, that matters not! Be it the Darkness or the Young Lord, we shall defeat whatever stands in our path!

Idia: Ohmigod I'm gonna die… I can't… breathe…!

???: So sorry to rain on your guys' parade, but… There's no need to worry about Malleus Draconia-san or that wiggly black stuff right now. It's likely Malleus-san is currently engaged with pouring his "resources" into keeping Lilia Vanrouge-san asleep.

Grim: Hey, that sounds like Ortho! Boy am I glad you're here, I thought we mighta lost ya back in the dream corridor. Where are you, anyway?

Ortho: Teehee, sorry for all the worry. Unfortunately, I'm unable to join you guys in big brother's dream without it causing some major problems, so we'll just have to talk through this monitor feed for now. Sorry. Anyways… My big brother appears to be suffering from oxygen deficiency judging by the pallor of his face, so could you please give him some space?

Silver: Ack, I'm so sorry!

Idia: *gasps for breathe* Uwaaaah!!! A-Another second and I was about to get yeeted into the Underworld… T-Thanks, Ortho.

Sebek: Oi, what was all that gibberish about Lord Malleus pouring "resources" into Sir Lilia?

Idia: Yeah, yeah, we're getting there. Ortho, could ya give 'em a recap?

Ortho: Roger that, big brother! I guess I'll start with how me and big brother know this is all just a dream… So on the day of Lilia-san's going away party, Malleus-san cast a spell that put all of Sage's Island to sleep… Or better said, he froze all of spacetime here. But by transforming into data and utilizing a connection I established with a communication satellite, I was able to escape.

Everyone: Communication satellite!?

Grim: The heck were ya able to do that!?

Ortho: Hehehe, it's because I'm unique! I may not be able to develop a Unique Magic, since I'm not a mage… But I was able to transmit my consciousness and my soul to a communication satellite using radio waves, and I then transferred myself into a different body. And that's something only I can do, ya know?

Sebek: I am loathe to admit it… But the technical advances that humans have brought forth truly are astounding.

Silver: Right. You and me could train and train, but we'll never be able to do what Ortho just did. He truly is unique.

Ortho: Hehheh, I'd love to hear you guys compliment me some more… But I'll get back to the story. Once I made it to Styx, I got my hands on a brand new gear.

Sebek: Styx…. 'Tis the organization that administrates the Isle of Lament, as I recall Sir Lilia explaining to us before.

Ortho: Correct. And then I worked together with Styx to infiltrate the island, so we could analyze Malleus-san's Unique Magic… Fae of Maleficence.

Episode 7-102

(A little while after Ortho and the KB-RS units departed for Sage's Island)

Ortho: This is Ortho reporting. I have reached the aerial perimeter of Sage's Island together with KB-RS01 and 02. We are now en route to the penetration point. The island's still pretty far away, but my magical energy and blot concentration sensors are going crazy. This is just like when the gates to the Underworld opened up… No, it'll be okay. I've got this new gear mom made for me, and the KB-RS units are here with me, too.

KB-RS01 / 02: Grrrr…. Woof woof!!

Ortho: This is Ortho reporting. We have reached the penetration point. Now making final preparations for descent.

Chief: Roger that. Good luck!

Ortho: Now deploying magical barrier infiltration mode. Activating counter-spell barrier. KB-RS units, deploy slicer modules and activate your ethereal slicers! Now initiating operation "Infiltrate Sage's Island"!

Ortho: Dammit, looks like this isn't going to be easy… KB-RS units! Keep on the attack!

Chief: We need to cover for Ortho. All battleships, aim your magical cannons at the barrier!

Operator A: All magical cannons are at full output! Firing in five seconds…. 3…2…1!

Chief: Fire!!

Ortho: The vines are all gathering together in that one spot to protect the island!! Looks like we should be able to get in over there, where the vines aren't so concentrated. Let's go, KB-RS units! Ethereal slicers at maximum output! We're gonna cut our way in!!

Operator A: Ortho has successfully infiltrated the barrier.

Head Engineer: …That takes care of the first hurdle. The next problem will be getting him out of there. He's only got twenty minutes before that gear loses power.

Chief: Right. Let's make sure we're prepared for whatever happens. Hurry up and get those cannons reloaded!

Staff Members: Yes, Sir!

Head Engineer: Come back safe and sound, you hear… Or-kun!!!

Episode 7-103

Ortho: ….We did it! We're inside the domain! And thanks to my counter-spell barrier, the spacetime aberrations here aren't affecting me at all.

(Time until loss of power: 20:00)

Ortho: Deploying analysis anchors!! Now running analysis! Woah, this magic is super complex… It'll take a good 17 minutes just to analyze the spell's formulation and save all this data. We'll be cutting it close, but we can make it. Just have to keep the anchors safe until the analysis is done….

(Purple lightning strikes)

???: My, my… And I was wondering just what slipped into my domain.

(Malleus appears in a column of green fire)

Malleus: Let's see here, you're… You look awfully different, but you're Little Shroud, correct?

Ortho: Malleus Draconia-san…!!! You're… So you really did overblot.

KB-RS01: Grrrr!!!

Malleus: Shouldn't you be fast asleep back at Diasomnia?

Ortho: Heh, sorry about that. But that body in the dorm lounge is nothing but a tin can now. I was able to use the wireless network to escape. Thing is, I'm an autonomous AI constructed from data, so I-… Actually, you probably won't understand even if I explain it, huh.

Malleus: In other words, you slipped out of your body, like a ghost, and found yourself a new vessel… Is that right?

Ortho: Oh, wow! That's a very fae-ish way of interpreting data transfer! But yeah, you got it. As long as there's radio waves available, I can go pretty much anywhere. …Even to the furthest reaches of space! I saw you used your magic to block off the submarine cables, but you never even thought about the satellites, didja? Magic is the power of imagination. And you can't bring to life or fight against something you don't understand. And that's exactly what I am - I'm not made out of quantum particles our spiritual energy or anything like that, I'm data. You seriously need to consider upping your security protocols! Personally, I recommend implementing UTM within your barrier.

Malleus: You-tee-em? What in the world is that supposed to stand for, I wonder.

Ortho: What the- You don't even know what that is, either? Geez. See, this is exactly why you got outwitted by your Kouhai like this. Doesn't matter if you're one of the top give mages in the world, or how ancient this spell is… You're no big deal. You'll never be able to put me to sleep with your magic!

Malleus: Heh, I see… In that case… I'll just have to smash you to pieces then, you little automaton.

Ortho: Go ahead and try! You'll see just how strong Styx… Just how strong the most advanced human technology in the world is!

Ortho (thinking): Malleus-san doesn't appear to view the analysis anchors as a threat. There's thirteen minutes left until they'll be ready… I need to buy us some time!

Malleus: My sincerest apologies, but uninvited guests really aren't welcome here. I'll be escorting you out now.

Episode 7-104

Malleus: You have my praise, it's quite astounding you've been able to maintain your sanity within my domain for this long. However… Is this really supposed to be the pinnacle of human invention? How pathetic! You haven't managed to lay even a finger on me this whole time. Fufufu…. Ahahhaha!

Ortho (thinking): Damnit! It's like everything in the domain is bending to Malleus-san's will. I don't think our attacks are even hitting him, let alone having any effect. It's like he's got this whole place in the palm of his hand…!

Malleus: Now then, let us cease with these childish games.

(Malleus explodes one of the KB-RS units)

Ortho: 01!!

Ortho (thinking): There's only 30 seconds left until the analysis is complete… Come on, we're almost there!!

Malleus: My, you look awfully pale. Do even machines feel fear? It's alright, I'll ensure you won't feel a thing when I shatter you.

Ortho (thinking): 20 seconds left… Please, hurry up, anchors! Hurry!!

Malleus: Sweet dreams, Little Shroud.

Ortho (thinking): I failed… I'm so sorry, mom and dad!

(Malleus freezes for a second and then looks confused)

Malleus: !!!

Ortho: !?

Malleus: Tsch, I missed.

Ortho (thinking): What… just happened? It's like he froze for a second there. Kind of like when a CPU overloads and gets a processing failure.

(an alarm beeps)

Analysis Anchor: Analysis complete. Data has been saved to the crypto memory core.

Ortho: 02! Get all the anchors and retreat! NOW!!

KB-RS02: Grrrr!!

Malleus: How bothersome. You're nothing more than a fly buzzing around my face…Away with you!

(Malleus explodes the other unit)

Ortho: 02! Argh… But thanks to 02 distracting him, the anchors are safe. All I have to do now is get them out of here…!

(The ground starts to shake)

Malleus: …What is it now? You fools just don't know when to stop!

Ortho: This is…!

Episode 7-105

Operator B: KB-RS01 and 02 are down! 45 seconds until Ortho loses power!

Head Engineer: …He still has enough time and power to escape the domain. Don't give up!! All autopilot Charon units, activate Termination Mode! Do whatever it takes to get Ortho out of there!

Chief: All battle ships, concentrate power into the magical cannons! Raise the output and don't stop firing!!

Technician: W-We've already reached maximum output! If we go any higher, the generators are going to get fried!

Chief: I don't care! As long as we can give him some time, even ten seconds or three seconds, it doesn't matter. We just need to have Malleus concentrate on defending the barrier! Now take aim and fiiiiiire! Fire, fire fire!

Ortho: It's Styx! They're giving me backup! Now's my chance! Magical slicer, full buuurst!

Malleus: …What!?

Ortho: Uooooooo!!

Chief: Cease cannon fire! All ships, prepare for Malleus's counterstrike and activate your invisible shields!

Operator A: …Ortho has now exceeded his power limit. System down, we don't have a signal!

Chief: …No!!

Head Engineer: Or-kun…!

(An alarm blares)

Operator A: We're receiving a transmission from the Charon Tetra Unit!

Charon: This is Tetra Unit reporting! We've discovered Ortho's body floating in the water around the domain! His body is very badly damaged, but his core is unharmed. We've also recovered all the analysis anchors from the water. We're now en route back to HQ.

Everyone: We did it!! Hooraaaaay!!

(Mr. and Mrs. Shroud hug and fall to the floor in relief)

Chief / Head Engineer: Haaaahhh….

Head Engineer: Good grief... I've said this before and I'll say it again, but even if I had a hundred hearts those boys would still leave me frazzled at the end of the day….

Chief: You know what? I gotta agree with you there, sweetheart….

Malleus: …Tsch. Damn those cunning little humans… No, it matters not. They can come back as many times as they like, be it a hundred times, a thousand times, and it will always end the same… I will remove any and all uninvited guests.

Episode 7-106

Ortho: Huh? Where am I…?

Head Engineer: You awake, Or-kun?

Ortho: Mom… Dad… I…

Head Engineer: Your Cerberus Gear was heavily damaged. All we managed to recover was your core and some of the surrounding parts around it. We lost both KB-RS units in the domain.

Ortho: I see… I wanted the three of us to make it back home together…

Head Engineer: They were good boys, huh. Listen, once we get rid of that domain, I'm sure we'll be able to recover their parts. And then mama will fix them up good as new.

Ortho: I'm so sorry, I know how hard you worked on them…

Head Engineer: What are you apologizing for!! All that matters is you're safe and sound. Welcome home, Or-kun.

Chief: Welcome home, Ortho. I'm so glad you made it back safely.

Ortho: Yeah, I'm glad to be home, too.

(The Shroud family hugs each other)

Ortho: Wait, I almost forgot! What about the anchors!?

Chief: They've all been recovered safely, you guys did an excellent job. Sytx's data processing department is firing all cylinders trying to analyze everything. There's multiple, complex layers of magic comprising Malleu's domain. The way it's interwoven, it reminds me of Test Subject F… Sorry, of the ancient spell that Grim has on him. Thanks to Briar Valley's assistance, we've at least been able to ascertain how the domain is constructed.

Ortho: Already!? That's great news!

Chief: Unfortunately, it's just the opposite.

Ortho: Wait, what do you mean?

Chief: We've determined that if Malleus Draconia himself does not break his spell voluntary, or if he is not eliminated, then we only have a 0.2% chance of destroying the domain from the outside.

Ortho: No…!

Head Engineer: Everything in that domain, even the laws of reality, is under Malleus's control. We could fire the most powerful magical cannons in the world at that barrier and fight our way inside, but as soon as you're in, you're powerless. We could maybe beat him if we take about 100,000 Cerberus Gear units with us…

Ortho: We probably wouldn't even need to fight him if we had that many units. He'd be too stunned to even move…

Head Engineer: Sounds like a good idea, right? But by the time I finish making that many auto-pilot units, his domain will have likely enveloped the whole world by then.

Chief: We have a couple of other concerns, as well. The minds of all those people asleep on Sage's Island, they're all trapped within Malleus's magical barrier. And according to our analyses, we've discovered they're all currently "dreaming".

Ortho: Dreaming…? You mean the illusionary phenomenon humans experience when in REM sleep?

Head Engineer: Correct. His magic is tricking them into believing that what they're seeing in those dreams is real. It almost works like the Lethe River system, in a way. So if we go in guns a-blazing and try to destroy the barrier, we just might end up destroying everyone's minds along with it.

Ortho: I get it… It's like the domain is one huge server. And that means… Pretty much our only option is to try and convince Malleus-san to bring down the domain himself and let everybody go.

Part 2

#twst #twisted wonderland #malleus draconia #idia shroud #ortho shroud #the ruler of the abyss #twst book 7

[kamidukki]

Rook Info Compilation part 15: Rook and Vil (pt4)

Rook says that, once they were better acquainted, one of the first things that Vil told him to do was to take care of his nails, as his hands were callused from gripping his bow string, with his skin dry and cracked.

Rook says that he hardly paid attention to his hands because he typically wears gloves (in the game guide there is a memo about how Rook wears gloves as often as he does in order to not leave fingerprints).

Vil says that Rook did not leave a very good impression when they first met: Vil was reading a script on a bench in the school’s courtyard when Rook approached him to compliment him on being a convincingly cold, tyrannical, tantrum-prone fiend in a recent play.

Rook claims he was “terribly nervous,” but Vil calls him a liar.

Vil explains that, after that first meeting, Rook started approaching him without any encouragement from Vil to “share his completely unsolicited opinions on (Vil’s) performances, then go on his way. Both his positive impressions AND negative ones.”

Vil says that over time he realized that Rook’s observations were oddly perceptive. One day he asked Rook how he would have performed a certain scene which Rook spoke critically of, and “He went on for FIVE HOURS STRAIGHT.” (Rook: “What a rewarding discussion that was.”)

Vil says that he had been convinced that he knew more about theater and art than anyone else his age, but “Rook quickly disabused (him) of that notion with his breadth of knowledge.”

After that, the two started meeting up regularly in the courtyard after school.

At the end of Book 5, Rook justifies voting for Royal Sword Academy by explaining that Vil lacked conviction: “No amount of validation from the rest of the world will ever leave you fulfilled. Even if you wind up old, grimy, and stooped over, if you were to truly believe that you are the fairest of all despite that, even the Magic Mirror of legend wouldn’t contest your claim. The strength and pride to believe in yourself is what marks the true fairest one of all.”(This scene later plays out as Rook describes in Book 6.)

Rook and Vil were on the same team for Beanfest in their second year and Rook says that “no one could mount any effective resistance” against them.

During pre-event stretches Vil notices that Rook’s shoulders and thighs have more muscle mass than usual. Rook explains that he had spent the previous month doing higher-intensity training specifically in preparation for Beanfest, as his wish to compete against Vil was granted.

Rook immediately pairs with Trey for the event, citing that teams need leadership to persevere, but during the game he asks Trey to not interfere with his capturing of Vil, which he successfully does after Vil runs out of beans. (Vil: “You’re stooped low, crouched like a predator. I can barely keep my aim trained on you!”)

During Phantom Bride Rook comments, “Would a bride who’s spent so long seeking her groom be willing to relinquish him? Were it myself, I would never let my dear beloved go.”

At the end of the event Vil is displeased with how long Epel and Rook took to come to his rescue and Rook apologies, saying, “I found myself lost so often without you to light my way,” but Epel points out he had actually been “busting up ghosts with giddy abandon.”

#twst #twisted wonderland #Rook Hunt

[kamidukki]

Rook Info Compilation part 14: Rook and Vil (pt3)

In a Chat Rook says that he doesn’t wish to disappoint Vil and Vil responds, “which means you should be working that much harder as vice housewarden."

(There was a small error on EN where this line was attributed to Rook despite the original line (and the word bubble) being Vil’s.)

When Rook goes to the Island of Woe to rescue Vil, Vil takes their first free moment to reprimand him for abandoning his position as vice housewarden, saying “I’m ashamed of my poor judgement in nominating a vice housewarden so irresponsible he’d abandon his dorm at the drop of a hat.”

Epel tries to go to Rook’s defense but Rook says he was prepared to be dismissed as vicehousewarden the moment that he left the school.

Speaking as himself rather than as the housewarden of Pomefiore, Vil says that he was beside himself with joy when he learned that Rook and the others had come to rescue him, promising to return them all safely to NRC.

Rook says that Pomefiore’s rules are strict, but he will certainly comply, as they are important to Vil. In another voice line he says he would never do anything that reflected poorly on Vil, as he takes pride in his position as second-in-command.

Rook has multiple lines about his respect for Vil, selecting a tuxedo during Phantom Bride based on Pomefiore colors, commenting on how they should be dressed appropriate to visit their “queen Vil” in Book 6, though in Book 5 Ace comments that he sounds like a yes-man.

During Spectral Soiree Rook says that the strangest part of the kidnapping of the students was how he and Jamil did not notice anything strange, despite how they consider themselves more sensitive than others, with their housewardens being the focus of their vigilance.

Part of the simulation that Vil undergoes (designed to upset him) involves a simulated Rook challenging him for the position of housewarden, as, “I appreciate beautiful things. Hence…I can hardly allow someone who’s acted as ugly as you to occupy the Fairest Queen’s throne!”

In his labwear vignette Rook says that Vil sounds jealous of Rook’s obsession with Leona.

Vil tells Rook that he might as well join the Spelldrive club if he desires to compete with Leona so badly but Rook explains that it is out of the question: The reason he enrolled in the Science Club was to “support something beautiful with (his) love” by creating smoke and dyed for Vil to use in the Film Club, which he wouldn’t be able to do if he changed to the Spelldrive Club in pursuit of Leona.

Vil often enlists help from Rook and Epel with the Film Club, as the club is perpetually shorthanded of everything but actors.

Vil says that he occasionally helps Rook with the Science Club in exchange.

(Rook and Vil did not speak for the first time until a few months into their first year at NRC. If Rook truly did only enroll in the Science Club in order to support Vil it is possible that he was in a different club earlier on that he later switched out of. He says that he and Trey have been together in the Science Club since enrolling, however, so a counterargument might be that he anticipated being able to help Vil via the Science Club some day before they met.)

#twst #twisted wonderland #rook hunt

[kamidukki]

Rook Info Compilation part 13: Rook and Vil (pt2)

Rook is constantly complimenting Vil, both behind his back and to his face, though Vil will occasionally express displeasure with his platitudes.

In Vil’s lab wear vignette Rook asks Vil when he will be starting a diet, as he has put on weight in the past three days that neither Vil himself nor any of his Magicam followers have noticed.

Rook asks, “Who do you believe: Me? Or everyone else? As I often remind you, I spend more time looking at you than you do looking at yourself in the mirror.” Vil is immediately met with Trey offering him a piece of cake and tells Trey to give his portion to Rook (“Force-feed it to him, if you have to”).

Vil says that while it is useful to have an outside perspective he didn’t appreciate Rook’s blithe remark about his weight. (Vil: “But Rook reads me more accurately than any scale. Possibly even more accurately than a mirror.”)

Rook will also make occasional comments about Vil sleeping properly and relaxing so as not to get any wrinkles. Vil says that the most impactful birthday gift he received was a collection of a hundred poems from Rook, extolling upon Vil’s beauty, and that every year Rook puts more and more effort into his gift. “It’s the quintessential Rook present, I suppose—with everything that entails.”

Vil explains that Rook can be eccentric, but once you get used to it, you can see that he is quite affable and honest. “Honest to a fault sometimes and utterly devoid of tact…”

Vil describes Rook as “freewheeling” and says that he turns a blind eye to his quirkiness for now.

Despite Rook’s devotion to Vil, Vil says that he has never once taken on the role of secretary, comparing him unfavorably to Jade and saying that Rook could stand to learn from Jade’s example.

When Vil cautions Epel about being on his best behavior during Glorious Masquerade Rook says that Epel will have his fullest support so Vil should not be worried, but Vil responds, “You don’t exactly inspire confidence, Rook.”

Vil threatens to remove Rook from his position of vicehousewarden for provoking Leona, and Rook seems to take the warning to heart, holding back from pursuing Malleus too fervently lest he anger Vil.

Vil also threatens to expel both Rook and Epel from Pomefiore if Rook is unable to keep Epel from getting into fights in a vignette where he also threatens to expel them from the Film Club, of which neither of them are a member.

#twst #twisted wonderland #Rook Hunt

[kamidukki]

Rook Info Compilation part 12: Rook and Vil (pt1)

Beauty is the reason why Rook chooses to drink the juice that Vil poisons in Book 5, explaining, "I wanted to believe in you. You, who strives harder and reaches for greater heights than any other. I didn't want you to besmirch yourself by doing anything foolish. And if the apple juice WAS cursed, I wanted to taste it. I wanted to taste the fruit of a poison derived from an obsession with beauty bordering on madness."

When Epel intercepts Rook’s departure from NRC in Book 6, Rook claims that his role as vice housewarden comes second to his position of le Chasseur d’Amour, and that he must provide Vil with skincare products to protect his beauty for an upcoming magazine cover photoshoot.

Later, Rook admits that this was a lie and he is actually worried for Vil’s welfare.

During the second Tsumsted Rook’s tsum exhibits a similar obsession with Vil. When Vil is too busy with the Film Club to humor it, the tsum takes up a hidden position in the school’s forest to watch Vil from afar without disrupting him.

Rook’s appreciation for beauty was his motivation to transfer from Savanaclaw to Pomfiore: when asked why he changed dorms despite finding his time in Savanclaw both fun and rewarding he responds, “I did so because I wished to gain a deeper understanding of beauty.”

Vil was also part of his inspiration, as he wanted to “watch Vil hone is own beauty up close. After all, two swordsmiths hammering a blade can give it an even keener edge. I volunteered to swing the second hammer upon Vil’s blade of beauty.”

Vil says that he tried to dissuade Rook from transferring, but “Rook cares not for the opinions of others once he decides something.”

Rook volunteers to donate his share of winnings from the VDC to Ramshackle Dorm (even before Vil's overblot) “to provide proper compensation to those contributing to Vil’s cause.”

But Rook also says he will not be following Vil into the entertainment industry after NRC as he is considering interning at an archeological research institute, in line with his interest in exploring historic ruins.

Rook says he is not patient, but visiting the island of Woe in Book 6 opened his eyes to how little of the world he’s seen, and he is now haunted by thoughts of how much beauty remains dormant and undiscovered in the world.

#twst #twisted wonderland #Rook Hunt

[kamidukki]

[AKNK] The Prophecy ⚠ spoiler warning ⚠

四つの光が地上を照らし 知恵なき者に裁きを下す

Four lights will descend upon the earth, casting the judgment on the ignorants

三千世界の最後の希望は 絶望と共に生きる者

Three-thousand world's last hope lies upon those who lives with despair

二十の悪魔の魂も 天を埋める無数の羽にはまだ足りない

Twenty demon souls are missing against the countless feathers scattered in heaven

一場の春の夢は 数年以内に覚めるだろう

The fleeting dream of spring will be awaken in few short years

--- [Note] ---

Okay. Rough translation, and I'm not too sure if certain parts are even acceptable. Thankfully the butlers (and the lord and Muu) went on deciphering the prophecy among themselves so it didn't become too confusing. Below is their interpretation.

First line: four lights referred to the intelligent angels (followed by a discussion how the last angel would still missing from their knowledge if that were the case)

Second line: those who live with despair = devil butlers. Muu inquired about the 3000 thousand world part. Boschi told him there's a saying in the Eastern Land that mentioned about it. It roughly means [この世界の全て], which roughly translated into everything that makes up/is in this world (?). Idk really. Better ideas are absolutely welcome.

Third line: demon souls were literally interpreted as the demons themselves. Since it said 20, they talked about how they were short of 4 people. Muu brought up Bern (or whatever his romanisation is), but in the end they would still miss three people. A brief talk about the need to look for more three butlers ensued.

Fourth line: Boschi mentioned a four-character idiomatic compound aka yojijukugo. 一場の春の夢 (fleeting dream of spring) becomes 一場春夢 (a metaphor for the transience of glory or prosperity). Frankly? I have no idea what to make about this. They didn't elaborate much on this part. Boschi simply said something bad was gonna happen in a few years (aka a literal take) and that was it.

#aknk #akuneko #あくねこ #悪魔執事と黒い猫

[kamidukki]

[KUROSHITSUJI] CH. 209

⚠ SPOILER warning ⚠

No no no nooo!!! Why must that happened to Snake!? Please not him pleaseee 😭 or any of the servants, really...

The very last panel didn't show the stamping explicitly, would it be too much to hope...? Then again, the new grim reaper did announce dead by extensive hemorrhaging. Ahhh, what a bummer. I didn't even realise I'm this much attached to Snake until this chapter. Partly because of his resemblance with Silver (or more accurately, Silver's to him), and partly because of what is shown in his records.

Be that as it may, there's part of me that is oddly glad and relieved to read such a dark chapter, no matter how gutted I am with a character's death. Yana-sensei is one of the artist who is capable of incorporating darker elements into her arts beautifully, so I kind of looking forward to it from time to time.

#kuroshitsuji #black butler

[kamidukki]

SSR Dire Crowley - Raven Jacket Vignette

"A dramatic encounter"

[Lecture Hall]

Crowley: Good morning. It is beautiful out, what an absolutely splendid start to such a lovely day.

Crowley: Incidentally… Have you noticed any changes in the apple tree growing in the courtyard?

Crowley: Yes, that's right. I'm speaking of the smallest, most recent planted tree within the courtyard.

Crowley: It feels as though it was only yesterday that it first started sprouting, and yet… It truly is growing at an astonishing rate.

Crowley: Whenever I chance a glance at that ever-striving tree growing each and every day under rain, shine or clouds, I also feel a twinge of self-reflection to be better.

Crowley: As if telling me that in both happy times and sad, one cannot forget to continue to strive for growth.

Crowley: And also… At the same time, I feel as though that tree represents all you students enrolled here at Night Raven College.

Crowley: That is, with respect to the point that with a good environment and proper nourishment, you all are able to grow and mature so wonderfully.

Crowley: …Well? Wouldn't you say that was an inspiring speech!?

Leona: Zzz.

Crowley: EXCUSE ME. I JUST HEARD A VERY LARGE SNORE THERE, WHO WAS THAT!?

Azul: It was magnificent! I was utterly enthralled by your wonderfully deep analogy. As one should expect from someone like you, Crowley-sensei!

Riddle: Really? I could have done with a little more tangible explanation, myself.

Riddle: What especially caught my attention was what you said about having "proper nourishment." Headmage, sir! What would that constitute?

Idia: Forget that, was this student assembly even a need? It's not even lol-worthy to think about how much time we've wasted having to listen to the Headmage's self-indulgent monologues on loop.

Vil: I concur. If all you wish to do is chit-chat, could you not gather the entire student body? I would rather use my mornings for my stretching exercises.

Octavinelle Student: Yeah, it's always some kind of useless speech.

Heartslabyul Student: I wanna go back to my dorm～

[clamoring]

Crowley: EVERYONE PLEASE QUIET DOWN!

Crowley: Anyway! What I was trying to say is…

Crowley: I would like everyone here to carry yourself with pride as befitting a student of Night Raven College.

Kalim: Oh! I was totally lost with what you were saying earlier, I see, so that's what you meant!

Kalim: I totally get it. I'll work hard just like an orange tree does!

Crowley: AN APPLE TREE!

[door opens]

Crowley: Hm? Who could possibly be showing up this late to… Ah.

Malleus: …

Crowley: D-DRACONIA-KUN!

Crowley: Right, did anyone tell him that there was to be a campus-wide student assembly…?

Everyone: Not at all.

Malleus: Was I not extended an invitation once again?

Malleus: You have the gall... To keep me an outcast…

Crowley: W-Wait, Draconia-kun! Do not cast your lightning indoors!

Leona: Yaaaawn… Done blabbering, then? 'Kay, meeting over. Everyone back to their dorms.

[everyone nods]

Crowley: Aah, everyone, wait! If you're leaving, please take Draconia-kun with you!

[Cafeteria]

Crowley: For goodness’ sake. This morning could have gone much better.

Crowley: However, no matter what tribulations I may come across… Once it is time for lunch, I immediately feel much better!

Crowley: And that's all thanks to the delicious fare our school provides. What is the recommended meal of the day?

Ghost Chef: Welcome, Headmage. Today's recommendation is an exceptionally filling meat pie filled with large chunks of beef!

Crowley: Sounds fantastic. Please, I would have that, then.

Crowley: Oh, hello, Crewel-sensei and Vargas-sensei. I see Trein-sensei is with you too!

Crowley: Are you all taking lunch together? May I join you?

Vargas: Absolutely, yes, come and sit with us! I bet it'd be more than a hassle to find another seat when it's this crowded, anyway.

Crewel: I also was unable to find other seating, so here I am, reluctantly keeping company with a scold.

Trein: I do believe if you wish to avoid a lecture you would do well to not do anything warranting one.

Trein: …Oh. I see that you've ordered the beef pie, Headmage.

Crowley: That's correct. I am an avid connoisseur of meat, yes.

Crowley: Of course I'll eat it all, including beef, pork, chicken, and even wild game.

Trein: Wild game?

Crowley: Indeed, gibier, it's called. Have you ever tried it?

Vargas: Oh yeah, gibier! Last time I had some was when I ate some venison, and it sure did taste so delicious that I was overflowing with energy～

Crowley: You have a distinguished palate, Vargas-sensei. How wonderful.

Crowley: There are a multitude of other gibier meat to try, you know. I do hope you all have a chance to…

Sam: ＩＮ ＳＴＯＣＫ ＮＯＷ!

Everyone: AHH!!

Crowley: S-Sam-kun… I implore you to not pop in from behind us like that!

Sam: Nyeheehee. You all looked like you were lost in such enjoyable conversation, I just couldn't help myself.

Crewel: This is a rare sight, Sam. You're usually tending to the Mystery Shop around this time, aren't you?

Sam: The cafeteria ghosts had asked for a delivery of some ingredients, is all.

Sam: Headmage, if you're interested in some gibier that's a little more difficult to get your hands on, you know I got you.

Sam: Whatever kind of food you may want, I can procure it for you.

Crowley: You're fantastic, Sam-kun. How wonderfully supportive. However…

Crowley: In all actuality, I also have a fondness for vegetables, fruits and sweets in addition to meat. I love anything that is not spicy!

Crewel: I am fully aware. For as long as I remember, your omnivorous habits have made for quite the reputation.

Crowley: Omniv… Could you possibly say that in a more appropriate manner!?

Sam: …Hm? I just noticed that everyone's ordered very different dishes. Really goes to show each of your preferences.

Vargas: Since I always have my muscles on my mind, I make it so my lunches are egg dishes packed full of protein!

Crewel: I do like meat pies myself, so I did consider it… But that size is far too much for me.

Crewel: It may be perfect for those growing students, but it is most likely in excess of the recommended nutritional intake for us adults.

Trein: Indeed. I also selected something else when I saw it with my own eyes.

Trein: If I ate such a thing for lunch, I would still feel it weighing me down during afternoon classes.

Crowley: Is that so? Such a shame. It's so delicious～

Vargas: Nice, that's a great appetite you got. I'll have to work hard to keep up!

Trein: Look at him, devouring that hearty and greasy meat pie so easily… He truly is young at heart…

Crewel: You're not wrong, he hasn't changed one bit from my student days.

Trein: For that matter, I don't believe he's changed since I started my tenure here at Night Raven College…

Crewel: Headmage… How old is he truly? I'm curious, and yet I'm not sure I want to know…

Sam: Nyeheehee. He's truly a man of mystery. It piques one's curiosity.

Crowley: Ah, so delicious. Past me deserves such gracious thanks for hiring these Five-Star restaurant chefs.

Crowley: And what a dramatic encounter it was meeting those chef ghosts.

Crowley: That was… Oh, hm. How many decades ago, now?

[Main Street]

Crowley: Now, what shall I do this afternoon? The other professors are busy with classes, so mayhaps I'll go while away the time at Sam-kun's shop…

???: We ain't gotta sweat the small stuff, c'mon.

Crowley: Hm? This voice…

Grim: No one'll notice if we skip one or two classes. We should totally just snag a few z's instead, myahaha!

1. Let's hurry and head back towards the classroom. 2. Maybe you're right and no one will catch us…

Crowley: That certainly was Grim-kun's voice, I see…

Crowley: Even if it is just those two, how could there be anyone with the audacity to cut class at my academy! I absolutely cannot believe it!

Savanaclaw Student: Hey, we'll be using that bench to relax on while we ditch class. Get off.

Grim: Huuh!? I'm the one who found this sunny spot first!

Crowley: WHA― THERE ARE OTHERS CUTTING CLASS AS WELL!?

Crowley: Not only are there multiple students missing class, it seems a fight is about to break out, as well… What is with this break in decorum at this school?

Crowley: EXCUSE ME, YOU LOT! YOU SHOULD ALL BE IN CLASS RIGHT NOW!

Grim: Urgh. Someone annoying's found us.

Crowley: [Yuu]-kun, it is most troublesome if you cannot look after Grim-kun properly.

1. I'm sorry.

Crowley: How refreshing… It's so moving to have someone apologize so forthright immediately after breaking a rule…

2. Grim just doesn't listen to me.

Crowley: Y-You're just running yourself ragged, I see… Poor thing to have to deal with Grim-kun like this.

Crowley: All of you return to class this instant. It should be an honor that you have the privilege of attending classes here.

Crowley: Magic is not something so simple that can be controlled on talent alone.

Crowley: Of course, natural talent may be important, but what truly matters is maturing your abilities through daily growth and experiences.

Crowley: You all do remember my very loving speech from this morning, yes?

Grim: It was all about somethin' boring, so I wasn't listening.

Ignihyde Student: Yeah. Same.

Crowley: EXCUSE ME!? [Yuu]-kun, please tell me you had your listening ears on this morning?

1. Of course I remember.

Crowley: Whew... At least you're a good student.

2. Something about grape trees, right?

Crowley: APPLE TREES!

Ignihyde Student: Man, you're so annoying… You keep yammering on, but there's really no reason to listen to you, is there?

Diasomnia Student: Seriously. It’s not like I've ever seen the Headmage do any kind of crazy strong magic or anything, and even the Housewardens were ignoring him at the student assembly…

Savanaclaw Student: He ain't scary at all. Just ignore him!

Crowley: …What pitiful children.

Crowley: Well, I suppose I have no choice. I'll just have to show you exactly how important incremental advancement in your studies can be.

Crowley: …FOR MY KINDNESS KNOWS NO BOUNDS!

Students: HRRGHH!

Grim: Oh hey, that stuff wrapped around those guys is the Headmage's uh… weird rope thing!

Crowley: This is not rope. This is my lash of love! A slightly stronger version than before.

Savanaclaw Student: OW, OW! I'M GETTING SQUEEZED～!

Diasomnia Student: This kinda magic should be no problem to break out… Hurng, I can't!? Wh-Why? None of my magic is working at all against it…!

Crowley: That should be expected. You do realize I am the Headmage here, yes? This level of magic comes as easily to me as breathing does.

Crowley: It's one thing when those who comprehend my power, like the Housewardens, speak in jest…

Crowley: But it would be completely disgraceful of me as an instructor to be belittled by students like you who have no knowledge of the difference in our abilities.

Crowley: You should try to comprehend how unripe your magical abilities still are.

Grim: Yeah, yeah, get 'em, Crowley! Show 'em what little they know!

1. I wouldn't get too carried away… 2. Wouldn't it be better to run before…?

Crowley: And a lash of love for you! My more heedful version!

Grim: GRRAAH～!

1. Astounding, no matter how many times I see it! 2. Your lightning quick flick made quick work of him!

Crowley: Heh, you don't have to go that far in praising… Hold on now, Grim-kun! No matter how much you thrash about, nothing will come of it. Calm yourself.

Crowley: After all, I have such high expectations for you, Grim-kun. That includes you too, [Yuu]-kun.

Crowley: I fully believe that the two of you will be integral to changing the future of this academy.

Crowley: I'm sure you two will be all I hope for and more, don't you?

Grim: Yeah, yeah, I gotchu. Just leave it all to the genius Grim-sama.

Grim: …SO LET ME GO ALREADY～!

Crowley: Well then. I suppose I'll just take you all to your assigned classes just like this now.

Grim: Huh!? If you drag us along all tied up like this, everyone that'll see us will all point and laugh…!

Grim: LET GO, LET ME GOOO!

Crowley: I must make sure that you Night Raven College students properly reflect on your actions and learn from each experience.

Crowley: And that is because you are all one of my very precious, precious apple trees...

Requested by Anonymous.

#twst #twisted wonderland #dire crowley

[kamidukki]

SSR Dire Crowley - Raven Jacket Voice Lines

When Summoned: Well met. Come, at this academy I shall teach you the art of magic.

Summon Line: Is something troubling you? You may tell me anything. After all, I am so very gracious!

Groooovy!!: This is the prestigious arcane academy, Night Raven College. Never let go of that school pride.

Home: Did you call for me?

Home Idle 1: It's not only the students who look forward to the holidays, but the faculty as well. And that includes me, of course!

Home Idle 2: Why do I interrupt class from time to time...? Don't say it like that! I'm simply popping in to give a firm hand to all the lollygagging!

Home Idle 3: Oh no... It seems my shoes have become a little scuffed. I'll have to polish them to sparkling later.

Home Idle - Login: Are you doing well over at the Ramshackle dormitory? ...No, no, there's no need to answer. I can tell just by the look on your face that you are absolutely satisfied.

Home Idle - Groovy: It is a relief to see you properly diligent in your studies. Now, if only those other care-free students would learn from your example.

Home Tap 1: That ghost camera was just gathering dust deep in storage... Ahem, I mean, it was stored securely. Please handle it with care.

Home Tap 2: I don't interfere with the lifestyle and conventions of each particular dorm. I thoroughly believe in a student's right to autonomy... I also have no time to spare.

Home Tap 3: You wish to see me at my full strength? it seems you know no fear... As your Headmage, I can't help but worry.

Home Tap 4: Hey! Grim-kun stole and ate my snacks again! Please keep a proper eye on him!

Home Tap 5: Eh, you want me to help you with your studies? Oh, I'm so sorry... If I teach you, that would take away the other professors' purpose of being here.

Home Tap - Groovy: It is a great help to have a diligent and capable student such as yourself. Please continue to look after our problem children, prefect.

Duo: [CROWLEY]: This is a good lesson for you, Grim-kun. [GRIM]: I don't need no lesson from you, Headmage!

Requested by Anonymous.

#twst #twisted wonderland #dire crowley

[kamidukki]

Dire Crowley - Raven Jacket (Voice Lines)

Following is my translation of the voice lines for Crowley's Raven Jacket card.

Spoilers after the cut.

Summon

🐦‍⬛: Good day, everyone. Now then, I shall reveal to you all the innermost secrets of magic.

🐦‍⬛: Is there anything you're having trouble with? If so, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. For am I so very kind, you see!

Home Lines

🐦‍⬛: Did you call for me?

🐦‍⬛: It's not only the students who look forward to the holidays - the entire school staff does, as well. The same goes for me, matter of fact!

🐦‍⬛: You'd like to know why I disrupt class sometimes? What sort of a question is that! All I'm doing is ensuring no one is slacking off!

🐦‍⬛: Hm…? Ah, I hadn't noticed my shoes had gotten a tad dirty. I'll give them a nice polish later.

🐦‍⬛: How is life at Ramshackle Dorm? No, no, you needn't say anything. I can already tell by that face you're making how much you simply adore living there.

🐦‍⬛: I'm so glad to see how dedicated you are to your studies. I wish the other students would take after you, they're all so terribly undisciplined.

🐦‍⬛: That ghost camera was just sitting around gathering dust in the- Erm, I meant to say, we've been following a most stringent regimen to keep it in pristine shape all this time. You best take good care of it.

🐦‍⬛: I never meddle with the rules and lifestyles that each dorm establishes, as I respect the students' autonomy… And I also just simply don't have time for all that.

🐦‍⬛: You wish to know the full extent of my powers? That's an awfully reckless thing to ask, you know. That concerns me as your principal.

🐦‍⬛: Excuse me! Grim's wolfing down my candy again! Please, you must watch him better!!

🐦‍⬛: Hm? You wish for me to instruct you personally? I do apologize, but if I did that, I'd just be taking away the teachers' jobs from them.

🐦‍⬛: I'm so relieved to have such a diligent, outstanding student as you. Please do continue looking after all these problem children for me.

Groovy

🐦‍⬛: This is Night Raven College, a prestigious arcane academy. You should feel proud to be here, never forget that.

DUO

🐦‍⬛: Allow me to show you how it's done, Grim-kun!

🐈‍⬛: You ain't gotta show me nothin', Principal!

#twst #twisted wonderland #dire crowley