Baka-Tsuki - User contributions [en]

Talk:Zero no Tsukaima

2012-01-21T15:11:58Z

79.157.1.220: /* Familiar names */

== Nyu-Kassuru ==

Nyu-Kassuru seems to be Newcastle.

* lolol.

after reading that out loud, i have to agree.

made me chuckle.

good spot my friend.

mind you after living in Newcastle for 5yrs, i have an urge to rename it as "Newky" and have all the locals refer to it as the "toon"

which the locals affectionately calls it. :)

[[User:220.246.154.243|220.246.154.243]] 04:28, 10 June 2007 (PDT)

== ZnT Teaser ==
The link is broken. The best I could do was putting Aquastar forum thread nearby; though I couldn't get it to show the right post. Any help is appreciated (required post number is in URL already). Or should it rather be removed completely? AFAICT, it was translation of the very first chapter, which doesn't make sense now...

I bet this is what Saito would say "I acknowledge the fact men make good pets and women rule the world! (So did men once)
I'm more than happy to let women rule the world, but they have to be willing to let me wear a dress with undergarments!! (Ankle fans and lipstick optional of course) You can make me sleep on a bed of hay and beat me with a whip for little to no reason, among other things. Also, you can treat me like a dog, get naked in front of me, and even make me dress you and still make me wash all of your clothes including your underwear."

Put a spoiler on that. You ruined the whole series for me. It was just supposed to be a teaser...

==Edit Deleted : Licensing==

We have already recived the news that ZnT is licensed. You can find more about this [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=1345 here]. This project will continue until the volumes are actually released.

Sorry for any inconvenience caused.

--[[User:Jumpyshoes|Jumpyshoes]] 18:02, 26 September 2007 (PDT)

Cleaned 20100702 by Novium. Added comment: No futher action taken by licenser as of yet. All is well.

== Proper Names ==
According to Wikipedia articles, country name is Romalia, not Romaria or anything; most likely, author meant Jörmungandr. If we translate proper names rather than transcribe them (Louise vs. Ruizu, Albion vs. Arubion etc.), let's be consistent where possible.

*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zero_no_Tsukaima#Setting
*http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jörmungandr

The same applies to Gallia vs. Garia, see Wikipedia for "Gaul".
I'm fixing chapter names in vol. 7, 11 & 13.

[[User:Const2k|Const2k]] 23:35, 26 April 2008 (PDT)

== Proper Names (reply) ==

About Romaria/Romalia:

Honestly, you can translate it either way. I don't care if you bother to change this since there isn't proof which is correct. Same goes for Gallia.

Though a note to you, "because Wikipedia said so" does not, at all, mean anything. Wikipedia is changeable by everyone, after all.

--

About Jörmungandr:
"most likely, author meant Jörmungandr"

Seriously, have you not heard of basing something off of something? The author clearly based Jörmungant OFF of Jörmungandr, but it obviously isn't.
In the novels, it is written "ヨルムンガント". Jörmungandr is "ヨルムンガンド".
The author didn't mean anything and make a mistake, he did this on purpose. So it should be "t"

~Serenade beta

just a side note a d at the end of a word in german and similar languages is pronounced as a t so the author is using the phonetic rendition (and according to my literature on norse myths Jörmungand doesnt have an r on the end) also for the wikiphiles the Jörmungand article is preceded by this warning "This article does not cite any references or sources." as opposed to my book "Norse Mythology a guide to the gods, heroes, rituals, and beliefs" by John Lindow.
Come to think of it (though it has been bugging me for a while) is the r on the end of Gandalfr there in the book or did someone translate it to that, because if its not in the book it likely follows Tolkien's rendition of Gandalf, as Tolkien was a scholar in norse mythology.

~Speerous

== Publication dates? ==

# Volume 13 - The World Door of the Holy Country / 聖国の世界扉 (published December 25, 2007; ISBN 4-8401-2110-9 and ISBN 978-4-8401-2110-1)
# Volume 14 - Aquileia's Saint / 水都市の聖女 (published May 25, 2007; ISBN 4-8401-2319-5 and ISBN 978-4-8401-2319-8)

Was volume 14 published before volume 13? Seems very unlikely. Could someone correct this?

--

Volume 5
Chapter 2-2 completed
Chapter 2 stands at 50% completion.

~ Vorpal

== About Chapters' Original Names ==

As every book has it's original title, couldn't it be possible to write also the name of the chapter in Japanese? It doesn't matter if it's not in the Main Page, but at least somewhere to be read, plz. Maybe here it can be written... :)

~ Macko Darlack

--

On another note, I suggest we change the Volume titles to reflect the way it's written in Japanese:

How it's all (Blank) of (Blank)

e.g.

The Familiar of Zero

Albion of The Wind

The Prayer Book of The Founder

The Water Spirit of Oath

The Holiday of Tristainia

The Ruby of Atonement

The Pentecost of Silver (Yeah.. this one's kind of awkward though)

The Serenade of Nostalgia

The Ball of Twin Moons

The Duet of Recollection

The Holiday of The Fairies

The World Door of the Holy Country

The Saint of Aquelia

~Xorius 07:59PM (GMT +10:00) 05/09/2008

== Vol. 9 Chapter 9 Title ==

Well, consulting a Kanji dictionary, the kanjis in 怪鳥 are 'mystery' and 'bird/fowl/poultry'. As some days ago S3-Ch7 was released 'The Ball of Sleipnir', there appeared a big airplane-like ship that was referred as 'a mysterious bird'. For that reason I guess this names fits with the chapter title.

~ MD

Thanks for the info^^

== Vol. 13 Chapter 13 Title ==

The kanas in "Aboard the 『オストラント』号" can be romanized as "''Osutoranto''". Now that S3-Ch8 was released, in English fansubbed version it is referred as "Ostland", something that was related with the East (however, it doesn't fit too much with East, 'cause Ost has to do much more with West [''Oeste'' in spanish]). It is the name of an airship (the one mentioned in Vol. 9 Ch9) named after Saito's origin, through the East, by %"%·/&%·.
As for the kanji, 号, it can be read as ごう (gou), meaning number, issue, sobriquet, pen-name... well, i don't know what sobriquet nor pen-name mean... but, ごう can also be kanjiized (new word! :D) as 壕, meaning trench, dugout, air-raid shelter... well, if those meanings are right, maybe someone could choose one of them... but I think for the name of that thing, the "Ostland" name fits well :D

~MD

In the chinese RAWs, its directly translated into Eastwards. Which makes sense with what's stated above. And the 号 is normally added at the name of Ships... kind of like Type, or Class kind of thing.

At least the chinese do haha...

~Xorius

Btw Ost is east in German and given that much of this comes from norse mythology german is a better reference language although finnish or danish is better still

so... the name of V10,Ch1 would be "The ''Ostland''", and V13,Ch3 "Aboard the ''Ostland''", right? or we write Eastwards instead of Ostland?? (btw, danish i reckon... but finnish never. totally diffrent *-) ) ~MD

The Danish name would be "Østland", and the Swedish name would be "Östland", finnish is nothing like that for East (itä). If you want to keep it German call it "Ostland".
~Danish Anon

== Shinto Priest ==

Shinto priest sounds rather awkward in this context, making it seems as if there is some Japanese culture in the world of Zero no Tsukaima. The kanji, 神官, that I presume it is using (I've seen the Chinese version) can apply to priest from other countries as well, such as roman priests. Judging from the theme of this novel and that the priest are from a country similar to
the Roman Empire, using a term equivalent to roman priest sounds more appropriate.

http://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/神官

In what chapter and volume did you encounter the issue? Thank you for the information
Also,remember to sig your statements. --[[User:Novium|Novium]] 21:38, 17 December 2011 (CST)

== Volume 8 Chapter 6 ==
I just want to verify if this was the intended interruption in the Japanese version.

''“Indeed. However, there is no sparring partner…”''

''“Aarah. What if there were an expert? You lose even against kids who can swing a sword only a little.”''

In the Chinese version, it actually says something like:

"Really? But it is still useless against those mercenaries"

"That's obvious. How else are they going to make a living if they lose to a kid who barely knows swordsmanship."

The chinese are not know for their quality in...well...anything (including translations). Of all agree, we toss that to the fire and enjoy the japanses translation instead?

== Letter(s) of Appreciation ==

You know, I don't think there is anyone who has truly written how much they appreciate you translators efforts, or at least not enough.
That's why I would like to thank all the translators and editors for an excellent job, as well as to commend all the time you have spent on translating the 11+ light novels so far. I also encourage as many readers to write a small thanks as further motivation.

--[[User:AzraRillian|-AzraRillian - Transcend The Sin - "You don't have a soul. You are a Soul. You have a body." C.S. Lewis]] 20:09, 29 March 2010 (UTC)

== Vol.16 Ch10 Title 元素の兄弟 ==

Well, not japanese-speaker, but i reckon the translation for that is "Siblings of the Element[s]". First thought of "brothers", but since we dont know yet if all are male, siblings is a better option. And "Elements" suits better.

As for me, i'm including this translation [in spanish version] until someone demonstrates it's not, jeje )=P

12.32am GMT-5 17/7/10

I'd say 'siblings' is the better term, since the readers find out in volume 17 the siblings consist of three brothers and one sister. --[[User:Flere821|Flere821]] 08:58, 2 August 2010 (UTC)

Kin replaced with siblings. Kin implies relation with the elements: while it becomes mor dual in interpretation that way - it is still of from the actual content of the chapter. Good work bringing it to light. --[[User:Novium|Novium]] 21:52, 17 December 2011 (CST)

== overused words and phrases ==

PLEASE AVOID:
*in other words
*moreover

Also, sentence structure like ''Louise, who was unaware of..., said ...., facing him.'' should be ''Louise, unaware of such..., said ...., and faced him.'' or some other varied, grammatically correct syntax.

Never, ever put prepositions at the end of a sentence. For example, ''That was the beast they were afraid '''of'''.'' is INCORRECT. It should be ''That was the beast '''of''' which they were afraid.'' or simply ''They were afraid '''of''' that beast.''

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Please do some EDITING and do your lecturing where it is more properly received.
See? That wasn't very nice at all, was it? Of COURSE we welcome a heads up, but always remember that editors are aplenty - translators are not.
Most do this to improve their English and/or Japanese.

Now, who and where did you encounter said problem? The person responsible is more likely to read it as possible feedback on their user page.
Please advise them in NON CAPS . People are sensitive - ya know.

Thank you for your consideration --[[User:Novium|Novium]] 21:29, 17 December 2011 (CST)

== Siesta's use of honorfics? ==

In the earlier volumes, Siesta's "Saito-san" is translated as simply Saito. Which way should be used? If Saito-san is preferred I could edit the ones in the earlier volumes. Because this differeance have been irking me for a while.
--[[User:Beato|Beato]] 07:05, 2 April 2011 (EDT)

It's a european-ish medieval world, do we REALLY need japanese honorifics at all ?
But anyway, as long as they are both commoners, there is really no need for a -san, especially since they have roughly the same age.
It's a different story once Saito becomes a knight. But then again, that would be really gratuitous japanese.

Imo, honorifics are preferable. They do add more connotations than without. It also helps to know how characters address each other for few reasons, one being able to know of any changes as the story progress. You don't have to perceive Japanese honorifics as Japanese if the setting isn't Japan. It should be easy to realize them as rootless words that have meaning for honorifics purposes to make up for English's insufficient honorifics that the original language uses. Anyways, honorifics were mostly kept and used when the project started out, but it seems like more than a year and a half ago, a couple of people edited a lot of them out... Imho, I think they should be re-edited back in. -[[User:Worldview9|Worldview9]] 05:00, 7 June 2011 (UCT)

Agreed. They need to be put back in. Next time I read through I will change some, could someone list what honorific each girl uses for Saito? and vice-versa and any other relevant use of honorifics?

Ask at the ZnT's forum section. It'd be ideal if someone who knows Japanese go over and edit them in since there might be cases where none or a different honorific is used instead of a character's usual. [[User:Worldview9|Worldview9]] 01:11, 14 June 2011 (UCT)

I see your point. If its just names and honorifics I could do it but that would be increeedibly dull work. I'll ask the translator if such variance occurs I guess. I would be surprised if it didn't and if done wrong readers could miss out on some of the subtleties. Uhh, worldview are you a translator? [[User:Blackfaia|Blackfaia]]

I wish I was a translator. -[[User:Worldview9|Worldview9]] 00:55, 16 June 2011 (UCT)

Has this been addressed? I'll do it if not...but I'd like an official statement first.
--[[User:Novium|Novium]] 21:32, 17 December 2011 (CST)

== Noboru Yamaguchi (author) stricken with illness. ==

'''I just heard about this on SankakuComplex. Below is an official announcement released by publisher Media Factory:'''
http://www.mediafactory.co.jp/bunkoj/popwin/message_yamaguchinoboru/index.html

To my dear readers, 

Thank you all for being so kind as to await my humble works. 

I would like to report on the progress of my illness. 

In February I fell ill, and was diagnosed with cancer. 

As the cancer’s progress was unexpectedly fast, it was considered impossible to operate to remove it. 

Instead, I was put on a course of anticancer drugs. 

Around May, I was also diagnosed with gallstones. During abdominal surgery to remove these, it was fortunately confirmed that the cancer had shrunk. 

The anticancer drug treatment was continued, and a few days ago during my admission to hospital for treatment, it was determined that it is now possible to operate. 

This operation is scheduled for the beginning of August. 

As for Zero no Tsukaima 21, which I am currently writing, due to the circumstances above its August release has become difficult to sustain. 

I hope expectant readers will forgive this unpardonable lapse. 

The structure of the remaining Zero no Tsukaima volumes was already planned from volume 20 – I shall endeavour to complete the remaining 2 volumes as soon as the operation has succeeded and I have recovered my health. 

I hope you will be kind enough to grant me your understanding, 

Noboru Yamaguchi

== Yamaguchi's first surgery was a success! ==

http://www.sankakucomplex.com/2011/08/05/zero-no-tsukaima-authors-cancer-op-success/

Noboru Yamaguchi, the 39-year-old author of the Zero no Tsukaima series, has announced the scheduled operation to remove his cancer has been a complete success.

He announced his survival via Twitter, of course:

:"I'm resting after the operation's success. I was able to take a little stroll today as well."

:"My sincere thanks to all those who left messages of encouragement. I'll treasure the life you've bestowed upon me from here on. Goodnight!"

Happily, his immediate prospects seem good, although sadly his long-time prospects are another matter; it is not clear what kind of cancer he was stricken with, and as long-term survival rates vary wildly depending on the organ affected it is imprudent to speculate on this.

He does at least have the benefit of a huge and greatly supportive group of fans...

==Goodness folks, do I need to ask Oni to implement Martial Law==

Deleted the messages here because this is just bad examples on both reader and translator sides. Do we even need guidelines for this? (Don't reply to this if you don't want your messages to be deleted)--[[User:Teh Ping|Teh Ping]] 09:25, 31 October 2011 (CDT)

== Dropped? ==

Just wondering if this was dropped, its been a long time since the last update. --[[User:Arctosa|Arctosa]] 02:12, 4 January 2012 (CST)

== Just a suggestion concerning registration page ==

well some people might know but im currently managing the twitter account (more like just putting updates there), well the thing is that sometimes its hard to keep on the updates because some translators are not using the Registration page as it should be, either not updating it or updating it late =/ this most likely could also affect the translation process if 2 ppl pick up the same chapter. while im not saying "do it" im kindly asking to try and do it, after a while it'll become natural and lots of issues could be avoided since this project have several translators, and as a side effect i could keep track of translations more accurately. thanks in advance =D [[User:Carj|Carj]] 23:50, 14 January 2012 (CST)

== Familiar names ==

With a little of free time I decyphered the runes of the Void familiars, and I don't know if those are the intended romanizations or a mistake by the image artist:

*Gandralfr: "Gundolf"
*Windalfr: "Windarfr"
*Myoznitnirn: "Miod?itinir" (one of the runes is always hidden by her forelocks in every picture I saw; it looks like an inverted ansuz or wunjo)
*fourth (from v20 images): "[...](f?)drasir" (it's partly hidden by the parka)

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume13 Chapter4

2012-01-21T15:04:41Z

79.157.1.220: Chande Julio's surname.

===Chapter 4: The Two Knight Corps===

Three days after setting sail from Tristain, the "Ostland" arrived at Romalia's southern port, Cittadella. It was indeed very fast. Even with a fully extended sail on a high speed, cargo-less ship, the distance by sea would take a week.

Cittadella is a fortress city constructed next to a big lake. It was convenient for ships to land and set sail, so the lake naturally became a port. Various ships were brought to the many piers that stretched along the shore. Purely from looking out towards the sea, the port had an appearance not unlike a typical rest stop for ships.

Well, when an oddly shaped ship such as the Ostland docked... a crowd gathered all around the pier. Saito and the crew were a little troubled from this.

Their arrival at Romalia was not an official visit.

In order to not attract the attention of Gallia, their arrival was officially an "academy field trip" by name. Of course, their real purpose was to covertly head for Henrietta's location, but that was a secret.

Naturally, their arrival created quite a memorable ruckus for officials.

On the pier, a spectacled person with the dull appearance of an important Romalian official eyed the Tristainian government-issued port documents, and then he stared at the Ostland suspiciously.

"Students of the Tristain Academy of Magic? What an incredible ship you're riding on. What's with this ship?"

Unlike normal, everyday ships used in Halkeginia, the Ostland had a large wingspan. Not only that, but on the tail and each wing of the ship was a large propeller unfamiliar to most. Official or not, anyone would think that it was suspicious.

The acting leader, Instructor Colbert, responded innocently.

"Ah, it is a new model of ship that I developed in Germania."

"On top of the wings, what are those strange bladed turrets?"

With an arrogant attitude, the official pointed his wand at it and inquired.

"Through the power of steam, it is a device that provides propulsion. I called it the 'water steam engine'."

The official narrowed his eyes at that point.

"Without using the blessed magic of God, you dare to fly in the sky with this strange device...is this not heresy?"

At the words of 'heresy,' the officials' aides sprang into action. All of them drew the holy items from around their neck; their hands trembled at the ready. All of Romalia's officials were clergymen after all.

The conversation was making Tiffania uneasy.

In order to hide her mixed elf blood, she was wearing a wide-brimmed hat, which she now pulled over her head more.

This action apparently caught the eye of the official.

"Hey you. Let me see that hat."

Tiffania was trembling awkwardly.

"What's wrong? I said let me see that hat. Did you not hear me?"

As the official reached for the hat, Tabitha softly chanted a spell. Seeing that motion, Kirche brazenly clung onto the officials arms.

"Ah! From close-up, I see that you're quite the man!"

"Wh-what are you doing?!"

"You do such a fabulous job, don't you, Mr. Wonderful Clergyman?"

"Not really..., anyways let me go! Stop trying to corrupt me!"

"There are a lot of things in this world that are more fun than praying to your god, you know?"

As all eyes gathered at their exchange..., the battle-experienced Tabitha completed her spell with the slightest of motions. Tiffania's hat started to glow.

With that, Kirche abruptly released the man.

"I guess it's as Mr. Official says. I may have come on too strongly."

The official cleared his throat and once again turned towards Tiffania.

"The hat, please."

Finally giving in, Tiffania handed over her hat.

"Hmm...you're much prettier without the hat."

'Huh', Tiffania thought as she checked her ears. Somehow they were that of a normal human being! The shocked Tiffania looked to the side at Tabitha. Somehow, this little blue-haired girl had helped her out with a spell.

Unbeknownst to Tiffania, the spell "Face Change" that could change appearances was a high-level square spell. At some point, Tabitha had apparently reached the capability of a square class mage.

In any case, nothing seemed to be out of place with the port documents. (Of course, since it was genuinely issued by the Tristainian government.) Since everything was in order, the official had no further inquiries.

A heavy weight collectively lifted off of their chests.

It was sort of ironic that they managed to get away by the skin of their teeth. Little did they know, they were inching towards disaster.

Leaving Cittadella by horse-drawn carriage, it would take a day to finally arrive at the capital of Romalia.

According to this country’s customs, wands and weapons had to be stowed away in their baggage before arriving at the city gates.

Such a rule had passed over the head of Saito, who carelessly crossed the gate with Derflinger still on his back. Of course, this caused one of the guards to stop them.

“Hey, you over there!”

‘Huh?’, Saito openly thought, as the guard shuffled over and put his hand on Derflinger.

“What kind of backwater town are you from?! I cannot forgive anyone who openly carries a weapon in this city!”

The bearer of the sword appeared to be a commoner, thought the guard. With a pompous attitude, the guard grabbed Derflinger off Saito’s back and threw it on the ground.

“Wh-what the hell are you doing?!”

Just then, the guard noticed Saito’s mantle.

“What the hell? Are you a noble? Still, what is the big idea walking by us carrying a sword? What is with the northern countries that commoners are allowed to prance around acting like nobles? This is blasphemous to God!”

Saito started to voice his complaint, but Derflinger popped out of its scabbard and beat him to it.

“Hey! What’s the deal with throwing a person – no, a sword onto the ground!”

“What is this, an intelligent sword? Whatever the reason, carrying it is not allowed. You should put it in your bag or load it on your horse…in any case, get over here. You look suspicious.”

Still, Derflinger continued bombarding the guards.

“Shut up, you dolts! Guarding your cursed house of frothy prayers!”

“…house of frothy prayers, you say?”

‘Oh boy, Saito thought, holding his head. Sorry from the extra trouble caused, Saito hurriedly grabbed Derflinger to shut him up. The fuming sword clattered about, making it quite difficult to keep it in the scabbard. As Saito finally pinned it inside the scabbard, it seemed to finally cool down a bit.

“Hey, how many times have I told you! Instead of being so offensive, you really should come up with nicer ways of naming things.”

“…how dare this sword! Insulting Romalia’s guards equates to insulting God and Founder Brimir!”

“Can it, greenhorn. What do you claim to know about Brimir? You’d best be quick to apologize and then run along to chant your prayers.”

With cries of ‘What!’ and ‘Unforgivable!’, the guards grabbed the hilt of Derflinger.

“Hey, what are you doing!”

Saito rushed to stop them.

“Demon! Time to turn you into a lump of smoldering iron!”

“Interesting! Let’s see you try it!”

“Stop it!”

It had turned into a scuffle. Louise and the others watched over it with a dazed expression. Because of some unnecessary words, the resulting scuffle turned into a very bad situation, they decided.

But, it seemed like they were destined for trouble anyways. Saito had unfortunately flung the vigorous guards away.

“Wah! I’m sorry!”

“You think sorry is going to cut it?! You have just used force on the servants of God and the Founder! We shall halt this blasphemy here! …Men! Come out and stop these suspicious individuals!”

At those words, many guards flooded out of a small area.

“Blasphemy!”

“This may be related to the incident! Seize them!”

Their hands grasped at their holy items. Seeing their holy wands, Kirche said,

“Uh oh. These guys are Paladins.”

Tabitha responded to her words.

Blowing a whistle, Sylphid dropped down from the sky. Tabitha and Kirche jumped on its back. Tabitha then cast ‘Leviation’ on the panicky, confused Tiffania, lifting her onto Sylphid’s back.

Only Louise was left standing in front of the Paladins.

“What is this!?”

Louise ruffled her pink hair and shouted directly at the Paladins.

“We are the Tristainian government! Currently, we are heading towards Her Majesty, Queen Henrietta, who is staying in this country! Laying a hand on us will be a significant breach of diplomacy! Do you understand?”

The Paladins looked at each other.

“…Her Majesty, Queen Henrietta?”

“Did you not receive this information?”

‘Uh oh.’ Louise thought as her face paled. Come to think of it, Henrietta’s visit had been undercover. Although the upper echelon of the government may have known, there were many of the lower-ranked guards that wouldn’t know.

“Bastards…, going as far as using the name of the queen of Tristain…, this is looking more and more suspicious.

“You have done plenty to invoke the judgment of the church. Prepare yourselves!”

Kirche picked up the panicking Louise into her arms.

“Jean, Guiche, everyone, you guys follow us with ‘Fly’. Saito! Come here and hop on!”

Grasping tightly onto Derflinger, Saito jumped towards the ascending Sylphid. Springing through the air, he skillfully caught Sylphid’s leg.

Letting out a short cry, Sylphid accelerated upwards. Colbert and the rest of the Knights of the Ondine quickly cast ‘Fly”, chasing after Sylphid.

“The heretics are escaping! After them!”

From the small building, horses quickly emerged, sprouting wings as they flew up. The Paladins mounted the horses and chased after Saito and the others, who had just raised their heresy level with further blasphemy.

Looking at the horses, Louise shouted.

“It’s Pegasi!”

Native to the area of Romalia, the winged, holy horse, Pegasus, was the steed of the Paladin. Glimmering with radiant white light, they steadily drew closer and closer.

Normally, the flying speed of a Pegasus was comparable to that of a wind dragon…, but Sylphid wasn’t escaping at full speed.

“The ones using the ‘Fly’ spell can’t escape at this rate…”

Catching Kirche’s words, Saito drew close to her.

“Hey, Kirche! How are we going to get away?! We’ve got ourselves into a lot of unnecessary trouble!”

Kirche brushed her hair up and glared at the ‘one who started it’.

“Don’t you know how frightening the ‘Paladin’ are? That if they decide that someone is ‘blasphemous’, it is not a trivial thing? They can informally conduct the judgment of the church and cut down anyone they see fit.”

The color drained from Saito’s face.

He was reminded of a ruckus between himself and Beatrice. Looking backwards, Tiffania was trembling. Most likely because of hearing the words "judgment of the church", it refreshed her of the ruckus caused by her ears a little while ago.

Viewing the streets of Romalia from sky high, it seemed to be divided into strict districts like a checkerboard. No matter whichever district it was, a beautifully carved tower standing over the heads of other buildings, standing ever so proudly.

"Seriously, insulting the clergymen in this place full of churches is the last thing you would ever want to do. At least consider about it throughoutly before doing so."

Hearing Kirche say so, Saito stared at the Derflinger in his hands

"Oi, you big mouthed sword. Go and reflect yourself"

Derflinger replied unwillingly

"It's not fair, all the time sitting in the sheath has made me very agitated. But most important of all is that I hate this country. The man who founded this country named '''Feisadic(弗爾薩迪)''', I abhor him!"

"These anicent things just forget it! Because of you, you've already caused me enough trouble already!"

Hearing Saito's scolding, Derflinger returned into the scabbared, slightly chattering, as if it really was reflecting on itself.

Looking backwards at the Ondine Knights, they were almost flying irratically, like an airplane in turbulance. They were tired. The "flying" spell isn't designed for long distance journeys, since it requires great concentration.

"At their limit"

Kirche described calmly. Tabitha below raised her staff and pointed to somewhere.

"Tavern"

Kirche nodded her head. Understanding Tabitha's intention, Slipheed started diving.

"W-what are you thinking! Why should we ever land!"

"To use that bar as a defense"

"Defence?!"

Louise and Saito roared in unison.

"You give me another choice, genius. We can't escape any longer, being caught is that last thing you'd ever want. If this goes on, a fight is going to break out anyhow. Better do it in a tavern since there's usually no one at daytime."

Slipheed accurately arrived at the targeted street. The pedestrians were so surprised at the sudden Wind dragon, they all fled. Kirche jumped off Slipheed, and kicked open the tavern's door.

Unwary of the trouble about to be bestowed on him, the bar owner welcomed them with a warm smile and a "How may I serve you". Kirche took a rough glance inside the inn. As expected, there were not many customers to speak of. Only a man dressed like a clergyman sat at with bartender.

It's common sense in Romalia not to drink wine in broad daylight, who would otherwise be treated as non-believers. Even if anyone wanted to, they would have done it in secrecy at home. Kirche relaxed. The less involved, the better.

"What would you like to order, miss"

Seeing noble customers, the owner of the inn came and asked, rubbing his hands gleefully.

"Today, I'll take this inn."

"Eh?"

The dumbfounded shopkeeper looked at the unending line of nobles walking in, so shocked that his eyes could have dropped out.

"What, What is this?"

Kirche did not answer, she was scratching over a check with a pen, and placed it in the hands of the owner.

"That, that much!"

"It may be not enough, when the time comes, don't hesitate to ask for more"

"Ye-Yes! Although, what are you planning to do? Is it a party?"

"More or less, although the fireworks would go a bit wild, I hope you wouldn't mind, would you?"

Fireworks?

The owner turned around. Tabitha was instructing the Ondine Knights how to make a fortress out of chairs and tables.

"Whoa! Wait, wait! You people! What is this! Waa!"

The shopkeeper's complaints were drowned by the sound of windows shattering. The guards outside were already in formation and casting spells.

"Uwha! What's going on! What is this! Ah, holy knights!"

As soon as the shopkeeper saw the pure white cape stitched with a holy cross, he legs turned jelly.

"You, You, who are you!"

Kirche pitied the poor guy

"Get down. It's dangerous"

Saito dragged the Tiffania trembling like never before into the tavern and let her sit down. Tiffania hugged herself as if attempting to use the academy's dress and her large brests to conceal herself, sitting down in a corner still like a statue.

"Saito"

"It's going to be alright. No matter what happens I will protect you. Besides, it seems like I'm at fault as well, so sorry"

Tiffania nodded her head, still shaking. Saito put his hand on Derflinger. Outside of the shattered windows, a solemn line of Holy Knights stood proudly.

The Ondine Water Spirit knights made a cover under the windows using chairs and tables, standing off with their wands. Tabitha and Kirche made commands lacking details. They had already turned into something like a commander and vice-commander.

The only customer here, they offered him to leave due to obvious reasons, but to everyone's surprise, he turned down that offer with a smile.

"There's no food better than this" and drank down the red wine in one gulp.

Colbert silently observed the Holy Knights' actions from a crack through a table. Normally, he would be the one trying to stop this brutal fight, but this time he didn't mention a single complaint to Kirche. Saito, observing Colbert transitioning from being calm to being realistic in this situation, concluded that it may be a brutal fight, but is the correct decision.

IN comparison, Guiche, Captain of Ondine Knights, kept mumbling "How did it turn into this[[User:Wildk|Wildk]]" and knelt on the floor covering his head like an ostrich.

Louise's body seemed to shake with fury over something. It wouldn't matter what words were used to comfort her. Louise with an extrememly high dignity just can't stand an insult through being mistaken and treated like a criminal.

Saito huffed and puffed, taking a break next to Kirche and Tabitha.

"Now what?"

Kirche laughed

"Alright! Every one of the brave knights here, Let me describe the plan today"

Everyone held their breaths, waiting anxiously for Kirche to name their position and objective.

"Try and stall as much time as possible"

"That-That's it?"

Kirche nodded.

"Right. As long as we buy time here, the news of a riot will be delievered to the Pope eventually. Do you think Queen Henrietta wouldn't have noticed by then?"

"Wow, how much patience do we need"

Guiche voiced his thoughts, stunned

"Is that so? You could always go outside and surrender to the Knight's trial, you know. We are all guilty of insulting an official. I wouldn't want to be taken and be beheaded or whatever."

Saito, then said with determination.

"Me and Derflinger are the only ones who insulted them. I'll go alone."

"Saito!"

Louise cried running towards Saito.

"Don't! If you're going, I'm coming with you"

She bowed her head with embarrasment.

"You are my familiar. Your responsibility is also mine. Therefore I'm also going with you"

Saito looked at Louise emotionally

"Louise"

Louise blushed.

"A-as a master, I have my responsibilities. That's why, I won't allow you to go"

"I won't"

Grateful to the core, Saito hugged Louise. Letting herself drown in this emotional conversation, Louise also hugged him back redfaced.

"Be-because master and a familiar is together as one."

"I understand. I understand"

"Hey, do these things somewhere else"

A Malicorne frowning so hard that he looks as if he was 50 years older pulled them apart. The two just now tightly embracing each other was red to the core.

Kirche complained

"No matter what you said, it just won't work"

"Also, if we let you go out by yourself, it would hurt our reputation, wouldn't it?"

Malicorne flicked his thumb up with a snap. Malicorne's words seemed to be an infection to the other Ondine Knights, all saying "That's right, that's right!"

"Basically, I hate Romalian clerks"

"The Crusaders are cruel and only knows how to brag! I've already wanted them to get a taste of who is the real hero around for a long time!"

These dangerous words echoed throughout the tavern. Looks like it really came from the bottom of their hearts.

Whatever they say, nobles of Halkeginia just love getting involved in these conflicts. Saito shook his head shrugging.

"Huh. What's with whoever's God. Since ancient times, isn't it because of God's existance we've been having all these wars?"

Thinking of the Histories lessons he'd been in, Saito said.

Different religions, because of just this reason, have caused countless battles on Earth. Unfortunately, because everyone was saying things out from the bottom of their, which they wouldn't have otherwise dared to talk about.

That is, except for one person.

It's the sole customer sitting calmly in a chair despite all the commotion. That hat on his head was wide and low, covering his face. After hearing Saito's claim, he laughed, then used a pelicular voice and spoke

"That was really some interesting things you've said"

"Is that so? Well, it's going to be really dangerous here soon, so it would be better if you leave. Sorry to cause you all the trouble!"

"Nah, let me stay and watch"

What a pelicular person, but now was not the time to think about this.

Saito looked outside again behind the crudely made defense.

"Hmm, those guys still haven't attacked so far"

Kirche observed. Since the Crusaders have broken the windows, they didn't move an inch at all. Looks like they only broke the windows to understand the situation inside.

Another few moments of standing off each other passed. A crusader walked out from the surrounding formation. He experssion was incredibly irritating to anyone who saw it, and shook his head two or three times, as if disgusted with the whole incident. While he walked, Saito voiced his thoughts.

"He looks like Guiche in somewhat way"

"Please don't compare me with him"

His face is a combination of a handsome one but with long black hair like what a gentle person would have. His black hair spilt cleanly into left and right straight down from his forehead, dangling on both sides.

The man gave a polite bow and called out softly to the people taking defensive actions inside the inn

"I am the captain of the Crusaders representing Alieste monastery, Carlo '''Halksidic Arnold 加爾羅克里斯狄亞諾特倫博迪諾)'''. To everyone one within the tavern, you have been completely surrounded. Being the humble servants of God and our Ancestors, I dislike pointless battles. Therefore, are you willing to honestly surrender?"

"We will gladly do so if you can ensure our safety"

Kirche bargained.

"Despite I really want to do so, but right now we are handling another case and has accepted an order to arrest every suspicious person and put them up for trial. If you can prove your innocence to God, Then we can discuss further details."

The Ondine Water Spirit Knights yelled out loudly, complaining. They know thoroughtly the so called trial is just a abbreviation for your sentence for your "crimes".

"We are not heretics!"

"Real nobles from Tristain!"

"If you are nobles from Tristain, then accept your trial like a noble. There is nothing wrong with using your body to prove your innocence. If you can't do that, then we have no choice but to treat you like one."

"Go ask Pope his holiness! We're Romalian guests!"

Hearing Saito's raged yells, the Crusader named Carlo laid out his hands in a carefree way. A man looking like he would be of rank vice-captain came forward and whispered somethign in his ears.

"Since you are so stubborn about standing down, looks like we must trial you no matter what. How unfortunate, to bleed unnecessary blood today, to cast unnecessary magic. Ho ho, perhaps is a training given from God."

Carlo lifted the holy cross hanging from his chest and magically stuck it to his forehead. With that done, his beautiful and gentle face turned into one with a strong scent of firece cruelty.

"Crusaders! As believers and servants of God and Founder Brimir, eliminate the heretics!"

Magic densed around the crusaders.

Carlo stood with his back facing Saito and the others. Excatly like a conductor of an orchestra of spells.

The environment inside the tavern was very tense.

Tabitha displayed her side of anxiety, one rarely seen, and gave specific orders to the Ondine Knights.

"Expand Air Shields. The more the better. Now."

Without hesitation, the Ondine Water Spirit Knights chanted spells, creating air shields in front of the tavern.

At the same time, the Crusaders have finished their spells.

Each of them held their respective wands out. Dragons in scales of flames slithered out from the tip of their wands, entangling together multiple times, and took shape as one giant single dragon.

"What is that!"

"Chorus of Praise. The spell Crusaders are most adapt in. Tricky"

Tabitha replied.

Once time, Henrietta and the corspe of Prince Wales made a hexagonal star combination spell. This was very similar in make, only those who can endure vomiting blood and have gone under tough training, like the Crusaders here, are able to perform this miracle like spell.

"They're really trying to shoot that into the shop!"

Before Saito even ended his yells, the dragon on flames have already began it's assault on the tavern.

Everyone inside the inn curled up fearfully.

A fortunate thing is that the dozen layers of air shields have lived up to their purposes, diminishing the power of the flaming dragon. Still, the Ondine Knights expanded a few more air shields in front, like the saying, it never hurts to do more than less.

Of course, the one who eventually killed the creature was Tabitha. Standing up swiftly, she unleased a spell chanted already in preparation.

Glittering ice particles started to orbit around Tabitha, releasing a blinding lime light.

Ice storm

Tabitha's ice storm enwrapped the firery dragon.

All the people around couldn't care less about the steam generated. When the mist has disappeared, seeing Tabitha still standing there heroically, every single soul in the Tavern cheered.

To their disappointment, Tabitha then said

"Out of energy. Take care of the rest"

Then went to the back of the inn.

Gulp. The Ondine Water Spirit Knights couldn't help but swallow their own saliva. Tabitha's powerful magic cannot be used anymore, which would, in other words, mean that they have to get through this on their own.

Unexpecting their magic disintegrating, the faces of the Crusaders changed.

"Hmm, even in the standards of heretics, they are doing pretty good."

Carlo casted his next spell smiling.

Since a spell in the fire field was easily defeated, the next spell would be of water type. As the chant continues, the ice arrows began to increase.

Annnd, the defense used respectively for the couple hundred ice arrows was nothing else other than Colbert's fire magic.

"'''Uikalostikadickoufu(烏爾卡諾捷拉迪爾鳩呼)'''"

No difference from his average attire from giving a lecture, Colbert calmly sang out magic, generating a fire snake comparable to the size of the now evaporated fire dragon.

As sudden as anyone would be seeing a flaming snake swallowing arrows of ice, it vanished. Only a few left out arrows punctured the table deep. With that, the Crusader's attack have ended.

But, Colbert also looked like he will be unable to cast anymore spells for quite a while. Scratching his balding head,

"Everyone, I'll leave the next spell to you guys" and went to the back of the inn as well.

On the streets a bunch of people have already gathered jeering and cheering. Obviously, seeing the bossy Crusaders usually threatening people in "the name of the Pope", in trouble is something you just can't miss.

Huh! Carlo twisted his face.

"Huhhuh, damn, second time"

The next is going to be even more powerful, the students whispered to each other.

Saito tapped Louise's shoulders.

"It's time, Louise"

Kirche, Tabitha and Colbert all turned towards Louise. They all know that Louise is the legendary void user.

The ace of everyone here, void.

A magic only the Founder could use, of type zero.

Though the Ondine Knights may not know of Louise's background, on the other hand, they Do know of the potentiall lethal damages she is capable of. Which explains why they all glanced at Louise expecting something from her.

"Please blow all those guys away! Until then, we will defend this place with our lives!"

The next spell the Crusaders were chanting is of wind magic.

Whishhhhhhhhh!

The irratic gust may not be as powerful as the hexagonal star combination, but the power it contains should not be neglected either.

"I'll block it!"

Saito ran forward carrying Derflinger. The harsh gust of wind is being absorbed into Derflinger. Saito then turned back and yelled

"Louise! Now! Blow those guys away!"

Louise chanted the spell tensely.

Done.

Waving her wand, the explosion went off.

Pang! Accompanying the harmless pop, the blast only dented the ground in front of the Crusaders a little bit inwards.

"That's it?" Saito thought, his brain taking a break from blocking the fierce winds.

Louise also looked stunned at the damage done by her spell.

"How,how..."

Kirche nodded her head heavily.

"Ahh, I take that you're feeling very happy right now?"

A shudder was sent down Louise's spine.

"The way your system works is by conserving a lot of energy, no? Must need some emotions like anger or jealousy or whatever, but recently you haven't been going through much of either, have you?"

"D-d-did not, that kind of thing"

Louise twisted around hang her head embarrasingly. Saito who started to be unable to withstand the fierce winds bumped onto her.

"Uwaaaa!"

Saito and Louise flew backwards inside the tavern. Though Derflinger may have absorbed a lot of the wind, it was still more than enough to damage the defenses construted from tables and chairs.

As soon as the Crusaders confirmed the destruction of the defenses inside, instead of garrisoning like before, they raised the staffs in their hands, chanted some sort of spell. As they chant, colours of red, blue, white and all colours grew from the tip of their staffs.

"Blades. They're coming in" Kirche informed everyone.

Blades.

Also something Crusaders often use. By inducing magic on their own staffs, this allows it to prolong into a blade with a different colour and power. Not only different in looks, because it was conjured up on a magical staff, its effects can last very long as well. Might as well say that this is a magic than can slice rocks into half at close up battles.

With Carlo being the lead, the Crusaders also began their assaults. Jumping in continuously from the window, the Ondine Knights also made blades to welcome them.

Fights broke out near the window.

Saito also ran in and joined them, holding derflinger.

The Ondine Water Spirit Knights are basically dot mages. To compensate for their inabilities in magical power, they all had hands-on experience with Saito, himself taught by Agnes herself. Due to this additional help, they were still barely able to hold the Crusaders off.

Sounds of blades clashing with each other filled the tavern.

Malicorne waved his wildly, roaring. The analytical Reinard was quite adapt with these blade attacks, swiftly bring his sword down left and right, similar to how he beats one at chess, hunting down the enemy.

Gimili's fit body looked just like a barbarian right now, swinging his sword with all his might.

Tabitha who couldn't use magic anymore sat at the back reading a book. She understands that there was nothing she can help, which makes her actions so reasonable. Colbert, on the other hand, fought against the Crusaders with his staff.

If you asked about Kirche, she currently taking care of the damages done to the to the inn with the innkeeper. Whenever a table or chair gets smashed up during the fight, he would flick his Abacus and show it to Kirche.

"This, too expensive, isn't it?"

"No,no, these are all made from good wood! Ma'am!"

"Ask the Crusaders to pay the remaining half"

Louise was concerned about Saito while being disappointed at herself. Void magic? Void of magic is more like it! Irritated by herself, she gritted her teeth.

To let Louise rest in ease, Saito sent a Crusader flying with one blow of his. Fearing Gandalfr's unhuman speed, the Crusader took a few steps back. Unfortunately, Derflinger's handle had already landed into his stomach, making him pass out.

Saito looked around, searching for his next victim. Looking across the room, he realised the copper golems were already down to one left, Guiche taking a step back with every blow of Carlo's.

Carlo faced the last golem with ease, leaving Guiche left holding a fake rose dropping its petals and with a long blade extending from the middle.

As soon as he noticed Saito coming close, Guiche shook his head.

"Hey, I don't need your help. Relax, I haven't even starting fighting yet"

Carlos smiled widely, confident in himself and launched himself at Guiche. His confident smile makes him look like he hasn't even used half of his power yet.

"Oh? Then let me fulfill your wish to the maximum!"

Carlo whacked Guiche's fake rose away at high speed. Guiche fell back sitting on the ground.

"Defeat. I surrender. Saito, I'll leave to rest to you"

And started whistling fearlessly. Whichever side they were fighting for, they all broke into laughs.

Carlo smoothly turned his head.

"You're the next one right, name yourself"

Saito raised his sword in front of him, reporting his name like a noble.

"I am Saito Hiraga. Remember it."

"What a weird name"

"Shut up, you psycho"

Carlo laughed hearing Saito's insults and put out his staff. It may be 30 centimetre in length, but the aura around it had a radius of around 1 metre.

"You're really out of luck. I swear, your life is mine"

"Take it if you can"

Saito edged close step by step, occasionally slashing his sword at Carlo unexpectedly, but Carlo wasn't that simple either, and caught Derflinger with his staff.

Both of them bounced off each other.

Carlo saw through Saito's power instantly, infusing more magic into his staff.

"You. Really a plebian?"

"Noble now"

The lime coloured aura around the staff grew even brighter.

"Ha!"

Following, Carlo continuously poked at Saito without reserving any of his might. Saito's eyes followed his every motion. No wonder Guiche could be beaten in an instant.

But Saito's different.

Saito saw through Carlo's motion, cutting his blade in half. Other than showing off, he actually wanted the enemy to lose his will to fight. Looking at the staff sliced in half, Carlo knelt on the floor.

"You. You bastard"

Saito said to the unsatisfied Carlo

"Plase. Can you contact the Pope his holiness? You will know our status after doing so."

"Shameless words from despicaple heretics! Ask yourself! For what reason would you and your bunch want to kidnap his holiness? I bet you're taking him away on that strange looking ship! Speak! Where do you plan to take him!"

Huh? Saito looked confused. Because of Carlo's words, the fight in the inn also stopped.

"Feels like we've been wronged?"

Bleeding from his forehead, Malicorne said clumsly.

"Kidnapping the Pope? What is this?"

The Crusaders started blaming them

"You heretical kidnappers!"

The man who had been eating all along laughed, standing up behind the completely muddled Saito and the others.

"Carlo, you have done well, although the Pope was not kidnapped"

The face under the hat widened the Crusader's eyes. Together they put forth their Holy Cross and bowed to him.

"Chesaré!"

Chesaré? This name seemed familiar to Saito. Turn his head around, he opened his mouth but nothing came out. Isn't that the person who fought alongside him at Albion, Julio!

Julio stopped using his fake voice, and greeted Saito.

"I was once conductor for the Church's orchestra. Therefore I'm pretty good at faking voices. You were totally fooled, weren't you! Bwhahaahahah! Oh my, oh my, how long was it since we last met, Saito! Since sending you off at Albion's battlefield! Your safety is better than anything!"

Saito looked at Julio's face with shock.

"What's with your expression? Took us so long to meet each other again, yet you look like a frightened lizard!"

"What excatly is going on, would thou please explain how it turned like this?"

Carlo interupped. Julio laughed even harder.

"Oh, that. Carlo, I was the one who made the rumors that his holiness is kidnapped. These people aren't anyone suspicious, but our guests"

"Huhhh? What does this mean?"

Seeing Saito and the others stil confused as ever, Julio explained

[[Image:ZnT13-147.jpg|thumb]]

"How would I not know that you will be arriving today. However, everything would be boring if you came to the Cathedral so smoothly, wouldn't it? Therefore, I prepared a enjoyable event for everyone. Spreading rumors of the Pope being kidnapped, then observing the outcome. Like planned, people like you were the first to be suspected. As for me, I followed you all the way from Cittadella. When I knew that you were preparing to land here, I got in as fast as I could. You guys were so insisting to fight, none of you discovered that you were being followed, I was a little concerned before. Well, at the level of Crusaders, I'd say you've passed."

"This, all this for nought" the Crusaders were stunned.

The Ondine Water Spirit Knights wiped the blood off their foreheads.

"You jerk! Enjoyable yourself! Because of you we almost got trialled!"

Julio did a little shrug

"Religious trial? The things you are going to do soon will make you consider this to be kind. Not every mission can be completed waving your little swords and casting magic. There's danger involved in these missions, and I hope you can use your brains more other than brute force."

Shifting his beady eyes to the stunned couple sitting in a corner, Julio walked up to Louise and Tiffania and bowed elegantly

"Miss. Forgive us for being so rude to your arrival. But I did not expect meeting each other at this kind of place"

Julio laughed again. His attitude made the Crusaders frown. Doing whatever they want, the young Pope and his assisting priest have made the Crusader's work hard to handle.

Outside came the sound of wings flapping. It was a wind dragon landing. It's Julio's, '''Alzilo(阿茲羅)'''. Behind it was Slipheed being caught.

"You. That, I have a lot to talk to you about. Displeased and that sort."

Saito said while his body was shaking heavily, yet Julio continued to driving everyone out without giving him a look

"Alright, alright, let's talk about these stuff while eating, shall we? Now then, let me lead everyone to the Cathedral."

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter5|Chapter 5]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume13 Chapter5

2012-01-21T15:01:14Z

79.157.1.220: Corrected the names based on the guidelines

{{Incomplete|percentage=45}}
===Chapter 5: The Persuasion of the Pope===

After arriving at the Cathedral, the first thing Louise did was to greet Henrietta.

But for some reason, this Queen seems to be quite distracted. She only acknowledge it saying "Oh, just in time." Even why Louise and the others were summonned to this country in the first place was not explained. Hanreitta told Louise and Tiffania that the Pope his holiness will explain later.

"Anyhow, the long journey must have tired you out. They have already prepared dinner. Please, enjoy yourselves first"

The dinner will be held in two different places.

Except for Saito, the Ondine Water Spirit Knights, Colbert, Kirche and Tabitha will share one room, while Louise, Tiffania and Saito will sit in the dining hall where the Pope will attend himself.

In the smaller room, they don't have a single waiter, letting them to do as they please. Luckily, the members of the Ondine Knights did not seem to mind this kind of treatment. They were all celebrating today's battle, laughing and chatting loudly all the way.

Kirche looked at Colbert by her side. Since arriving at this Cathedral, he seemed to have a lack of enthusiasm. Leaving the untouched dish in front of him, he rested his chin on his knuckles, immersed in deep thoughts.

"What's wrong? Here, does it taste bad?"

Kirche indicated her soup by stirring it with a spoon.

"This soup really is disgusting. Other than spinach, there's nothing else. Having this kind of priest like meal, it's my first experience."

Still, Colbert stayed in the same position without moving an inch after commenting.

"What's wrong with you? Are you alright?"

Kirche bended her head worriedly. Colbert finally lifted his head up in response.

"Eh? Oh, sorry. Nothing much"

He took a few sips from his soup, whipping out a ruby ring from his pocket once in a while, staring at it like a dead man with his eyes open. It was what he gave into Kirche's poccession when he was about to die in his battle with Menvil. After Colbert was completely healed, Kirche gave this back to him promptly.

"What's with the ruby? Are you, thinking about your ex?"

Originally meant to be a joke, Colbert nodded his head out of Kirche's surprise.

"Umm, just like that"

Kirche winced her eyes, and put a small cooked lobster on his head, although his was just as motionless. Not wanting other people to see her any more jealous, Kirche found someone else to talk to. At her side, Tabitha was eating expressionless.

"Hey, Tabitha. What do you think they are talking about at the dining hall?"

Tabitha slowly finished her cup of wine and answered

"Don't know"

On the other end of the corridor inside the dining hall, no one said of anything and kept putting food in their mouths in awkward silence. Louise was sitting next to Saito, whereas Tiffania was sitting on the other side of him.

Today's incident wasn't something Saito could easily let go. Every now and then, Saito would stare angrily at Julio, grinding his teeth and food, thinking "Huh, that bastard"

Tiffania nervously shrunk into her seat. Holding the fork and knife in her hand tightly, the plate served just now, she had not taken a single bite, already cut into an unknown number of pieces now.

In front of her is the one who called Louise and the others here, Henrietta.

Likewise to Colbert, Henrietta was also deep in thoughts, focusing dully on the wineglass in front of her. On the side of Henrietta sat Captain of the guns squadron, Agnes, but she also seemed to be considering something silently.

Sitting at the end of the table, was Pope St. Aegis the 32nd, Vittorio Serevare, listening to Julio's daily report.

Not long ago, Louise, Saito and Tiffania 3 of the were allowed to see Pope Vittorio alone. He used the caring, smiling face of his to welcome them all.

First, Louise was stunned by his handsome face. He was just like an elf, mysterious and mighty.

Next thing Louise felt, was the overwhelming warm feeling radiating from him. It's only something one can feel from those who have sacrificed all their desires for others. Just taking one sight of him, Louise felt as if she understood why he was able to become Pope at such a young age.

Saito also seemed to be experiencing what Louise is right now. His jaw dropped at the sight of the glamorous Vittorio, then quickily changed to a smile of defeat.

"Julio that kid may be handsome but he has his irritating side, but this person is completely different. So these people do exist in the world" Saito relayed his thoughts to Louise back then.

After than the dinner began. The only words spoken so far were from Vittorio, all of them comforting words, but irrevelant to the case. Not being able to raise a question on her side, Louise uncomfortably calmed down her mind.

What, is this thing that Henrietta and Pope his holiness wants us to see?

Louise jabbed the Saito beside her and said

"Hey"

"Huh?"

"What are her majesty and his holiness planning to let us look at?"

"Dunno. I guess we will after this dinner. It may be extremely shocking, therefore a filled up stomach will surely calm you down."

Just like what Saito said, it's pointless to be thinking all day long. And so, Louise extended her hand to reach the food.

Hearing the report, Vittorio deeply bowed to everyone.

"My familiar must have caused you trouble"

Hearing him say this, Louise and Saito both, "Pufffff!", spitting out everything in their mouths.

"Your holiness, just now, what did you say?"

"I was apologizing for the trouble caused. Julio, why did you do these things without informing me? I only said 'Hope you may welcome them'."

Julio's heretochromic eyes shined, and chuckled.

"No, not that!"

Louise unconsiciously stood up.

"Just now, your holiness said 'familiar'?"

"Yes, that is correct."

Julio looked at Saito and Louse, then said while nodding

"We are brothers, gifted with the power to guide people to the correct paths, brothers weilding legendary power"

Saito and the others were all astonished by this sudden confession from Julio. Julio then casually took off his gloves on his right hand.

On his hand, a chain of letters similar to Gandalfr's inscription was marked down there.

"I am the right hand of God. Windalfr. Saito, you and me are like brothers."

"Windalfr", Tiffania murmured to herself.

""Because Miss Tiffania still does not pocess a familiar, that will be 3 bearers, 2 familiars, and"

Vittorio eyed the Founder's Prayer book lying beside Louise

"A secret treasure, two rings, all inside this room"

Jullio whispered softly in Vittorio's ear

"Ring, there is one more the can be counted"

"In that case, then there are 3 rings. So this is it."

The dining hall was filled with tension. In the middle of this stifiling air, Vittorio turned to Henrietta.

Henrietta's concerned face nodded deeply.

"Then, today, the reason for everyone's presence here is none other than what you are expecting. I hope you may all help me."

"Help in?"

At this point, Henrietta opened her mouth and offered to continue for him.

After Saito and Louise had finished listening to what Henrietta had to say, they widened their eyes at this ridiculous task. Eventually returning to reality, Louise opened her mouth and said

"Anyhow, what you majesty is trying to say is, to use our power, and to reclaim the holy land back from the elves' hands? How is this different from the Reconquista people?"

"No, it's not like that, Louise. It's to discuss. War is foolish. Both of you have made me realise this point."

"Then, why must we reclaim the holy land?"

This time Vittorio cut in

"It's because that place is where we belong. Why do wars exists? Why do the governors of this world, us sheepishly declare war with different clans? Simpily said, this state exists because of the loss of our destinied land."

Vittorio's calm voice stands out from the rest and he continues

"In this few thousand years of losing our holy hand, we were at a state of losing confidence. Our promised lands conquered by unfamiliar people, is unhealthy for our overall population. Losing confidence, we have been seeking cheap replacements. Pointless fights over countless lands, we have bled a lot unnecessarily."

Louise had nothing to counter. This is Halkengia's history.

<noinclude>
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaaaaa solid; padding: 0.2em; border-collapse: collapse;"
|-
| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter4|Chapter 4]]
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume13_Chapter6|Chapter 6]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>