“Bargain Between a Prince

and a Thief”

★ chapter one
★ chapter two
★ episode
★ voice line

chapter one

[Central Country, City of Glory—Festival Market]

Arthur: (A festival to express our feelings… This would be the perfect opportunity to show my gratitude to Master Sage…)

Since I’m at the market, I might as well look for a gift—chocolates would be nice to keep with the customs of their world. Let’s see, something special, something unique...

(Arthur peruses the stalls.)

Arthur: Hmmm, what do we have here...

(Oh, what an adorable kitty! Master Sage doesn’t hide their fondness for cats, I’m sure this chocolate would be just the thing for them.)

Excuse me sir, may I—

???: Yo, honcho, pack that one cat over there fo’ me.

Shopkeeper: Right away, sir!

Arthur: Ah…

Bradley: Hm? Well if it ain’t our li’l prince. Royalty shop at roadside stalls with the commonfolks now?

Arthur: Indeed. I am actually looking for a unique present to offer to Master Sage. I suppose you are hunting for gifts as well?

Bradley: Do I look like I’m doin’ this fo’ fun, seriously? This is to deal with Owen’s bullshit.

Arthur: Oh, I see… While I don’t know what dealings you might have with him, I hope he finds it to his liking.

Bradley: … …I could give it to you instead, if you wan’ it.

Arthur: Really? You would?!

Bradley: Now, ain't no such thing as a free lunch: in return, you’ll hafta spill a few beans ‘bout Oz—stuff only his protégé ‘d know. Deal?

Arthur: About Master Oz?

Bradley: C'mon, I ain't askin' fer yer crown jewels, an’ I ain't too picky neither. I'll even accept yer childhood memories with him as payment.

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chapter two

[Central Country, City of Glory—Festival Market]

Arthur: I apologise, but I will have to turn down the offer.

While I would be more than happy to share these stories, Master Oz has forbidden me from speaking about them to northern wizards…

Bradley: Bah, loosen up a li'l, yer midgesty! Today’s for celebratin’ yer kinfolk too, so might as well jus’ do that, yeah? Shootin’ the breeze, rememberin’ ol’ times ‘round a meal, how that sound?

Arthur: But…

Bradley: So what, you tellin’ me yer gonna pass up the chance to get the perfect gift fo’ the Sage? They love ‘em kittens after all; you’d be right on the money with that chocolate, trust me.

Ya worry too much ‘bout what Oz ‘d think. This stays between us, ‘kay? It’ll be as if you’d never said anything.

Arthur: …Thank you for the invitation, Bradley.

But please, give this to Owen. I'll look for a different gift for Master Sage.

You see, Master Oz not only brought me up, but I am also indebted to him for my very life. I don’t want to partake in something that would blatantly shatter the trust he bestowed upon me.

Bradley: … …

Bradley: Here, catch.

Arthur: Oop… Isn’t that the chocolate you just bought? Are you… giving it to me?

Bradley: Yeah, y’can keep it. I like a lad who values his loyalty to the man he owes his life to. See ya.

Arthur: He left without waiting for… Thank you, Bradley. I’ll remember the gesture.

Looks like Master Sage will have their chocolate after all!

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episode story

“Return The Favour”

[Wizards’ Manor—Lounge]

Akira: You know, I haven’t eaten a single piece of the chocolate you gave me at the festival. I’d feel bad trying to take it apart, it looks too good…

Arthur: Ah, that’s why it’s still intact. Truth be told, I gave it to you simply hoping to make you smile. It’s my delight to hear that you cherish it still.

Akira: Of course I do! Thank you again, it’s just so precious… I don’t want to ruin it, you know?

Arthur: Ahaha, I completely understand. I was the same as a child: the first time Master Oz drew a bunny with honey on my pancakes, I stared at it for so long I forgot to eat.

But no matter how cute they look, they’re perishable; so please, eat your chocolate before it goes bad.

Akira: I’ll remember it! …Speaking of chocolates, what kinds would you like to receive, if any?

Arthur: Me? Let me think… I don’t have any particular request in mind at the moment.

So long as they were picked with me in mind, I’ll be thankful regardless of what I receive.

When the intention comes from the heart, the gesture alone is the best gift one could ask for.

Akira: Well said…!

I actually asked because I wanted to return the favour, so… I’ll bake chocolates made with all my heart just for you!

Arthur: …You never stop giving back, Master Sage. Your kindness touches me.

However, you have already returned the gesture.

Akira: I did?

Arthur: To be the witness of your happiness is my greatest gift, Master Sage.

voice line

“In light of Valentine’s Day, Cain and the others, along with myself, are planning to make a grand, life-sized chocolate monument in your honour, as a testament to the gratitude we hold for you. Hehe, surprised? Rest assured, you will be the very first to see it in its full glory as soon as we’re done!”

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