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Zero no Tsukaima:Volume3 Chapter2

2007-11-18T01:24:24Z

Gandalfr: Edited for proper paragraph/speech/thought combination and awkward word use.

'''Chapter 2: Louise’s Lovesickness'''

The morning after returning from Albion, Louise’s attitude began to change. Put simply, she started to become nicer. After waking up, Saito prepared the wash basin for Louise as usual. He'd pour water into the basin and then wash Louise's face. It was troublesome, but if Saito forgot about the wash basin, severe consequences would follow.

Once, when Saito forgot to prepare the wash basin, he wasn’t allowed to eat. The next morning, being quite angry, he caught a frog from the pond behind the Academy of Magic and put it in the wash basin. Louise, who hated frogs, cried at the sight of the swimming amphibian. She burst into tears when it suddenly appeared in front of her. Saito apologized profusely, but Louise did not forgive him for making her cry.

That time, unsatisfied with merely starving Saito, Louise tried to whip him, resulting in Saito escaping the room and sleeping outside.

They would get into fights like that over a mere wash basin, but after going to Albion something changed. Warm feelings for Saito started to sprout within Louise and vice versa. However, they did not realize the other’s feelings.

In the morning, Saito prepared the wash basin feeling slightly awkward. Louise sat on her bed with a drowsy look.

With the wash basin placed on the floor, Saito scooped up water with both hands but Louise didn’t move. Her pinkish blond hair dangled in her face. Seemingly tired, she rubbed her eyes. With an absent minded expression, she said, “Leave it there, I’ll do it myself.”

Saito was shocked. He didn’t think the words “I’ll do it myself” could come from Louise’s mouth.

“Louise?”

Saito waved his hand in front of her face. Louise pouted, facing away. She was blushing. As if she was angry, Louise said, “I’ll do it myself. Leave me alone.”

Louise dipped her hand in the wash basin, scooped up water, shook her head and washed her face. Water scattered everywhere.

“So, you’re the type that likes to move their face while they wash it huh?”

Louise was slightly taken aback by Saito's comment. Her face blushed and she became angry. “H-Have a problem with that?”

“No, not at all…”

Saito then took Louise’s clothes from her closet and laid them face down on her bed, while Louise put on her panties. Saito, holding Louise's uniform, turned around when he thought she was done. The next step was to dress Louise.

When Saito turned around, Louise, wearing only panties, started to panic and quickly covered her body with her sheets.

“Leave the clothes there,” Louise said, half her face covered by the sheets.
‘’What’s happened?’’ thought Saito. ‘’She would normally say something like ‘Quickly dress me...’ with a sleepy face. What's more, she is hiding behind the sheets. Normally, she wouldn’t care about being seen. Why is she embarrassed?’’

“Leave it there? Um, are you sure?”

Louise popped her head up above the sheets, “I said leave it there didn’t I?!”

Louise then buried half her face in the sheets again and glared at Saito.

''Well this is strange,'' thought Saito as he placed the clothes beside Louise as he was told.

“Face that way.”

“Eh?”

“I said face that way.”

It was as if she was the type of person who didn’t want to be seen while changing. This is a very normal reaction for adolescent girls, however Louise had been fine in the past.

Saito turned his back to Louise thinking, ''What the hell happened?''

Well, many things happened in Albion. Her fiancée betrayed her and Henrietta, her childhood friend, lost her lover. It was a horrible experience for Louise. Perhaps those events changed her.

Has Louise really changed?

With an expressionless face, Saito remembered the feeling of Louise’s lips. He had kissed a half-asleep Louise softly on the lips while on the dragon. Kissing someone in their sleep is cowardly and something he ought not to have done, but he couldn’t control himself. He cared a great deal about her.

''Could it be…'', Saito thought. ''That Louise knows about that kiss? She didn’t change because she felt I was dangerous and thought I was going to make a move on her, right?''

Saito stopped his thoughts there and shook his head. If Louise was awake at the time, she wouldn’t have kept quiet. Wake up. Get angry. Abuse. Any sense of harmony would have exploded into bits. Times like when I crept into her bed were horrible weren’t they? A dog. That’s me, a dog. A dog that is led by a chain and says ‘woof’.

''Ah. I see now.'' Saito finally realized. ''She feels uneasy because I crept into her bed while she was sleeping, two nights before we left for Albion. This isn’t about the kiss at all. Ah, that’s why she doesn’t want my help changing anymore.'' '''''

Saito felt somewhat sad. In fact, he was deeply regretful. If only he hadn’t done such a thing. ‘’She doesn’t want me making a move on her. Well that’s only natural, but it means she doesn’t like me. That’s also natural I guess…’’

‘’It is only natural… yet saddening.’’

‘’A ray of hope? Nope. None. Louise doesn’t like me. I’m only a familiar. That being said, I’ve only been a dangerous familiar so far. A bad familiar that transforms into a wolf at night. A wall has already been built between us.’’

Dark clouds started gathering. The hope inside Saito’s heart whispered desperately, “But on the way back home on the dragon, she cuddled with me right?” The despair within Saito’s heart replied coldly, "That's just my imagination. She sent me flying when Kirche pointed it out, didn’t she?"

‘’… Ah, that’s right. There’s no mistake about it. Louise doesn’t think anything of me.’’

Realizing his own feelings for Louise, sadness overwhelmed Saito. Saito had a personality where once excited, he would get extremely carried away, but when depressed, he would be excessively depressed.

“What are you whispering?”

Saito had not realized he was whispering. When he turned around, Louise, already finished changing, looked into his face dubiously.

After a mere twenty seconds of thought, he had reached his conclusion. Feeling down, Saito replied in a sickly voice, “Sorry. I won’t talk to myself again.”

“Yes, it’s somewhat revolting.”

Louise, looking dubiously at Saito, walked out. “Come on, let’s go for breakfast.”

“Yeah,” Saito followed after her, depressed.

Even in the Alviss Dining Hall, something surprising occurred.

Saito sat down on the floor as always, but his plate of soup was not there. Saito grew impatient. ''Did I do anything to make Louise angry enough to not feed me? No, I don’t think so.''

Last night, after the five of them returned to the academy, they reported to Osman. Osman, who had already heard from Henrietta, thanked and praised them for their efforts.

Then they had returned to their rooms … and quickly fallen asleep. Saito hadn't done anything to anger Louise. With a miserable look on his face, Saito looked up at Louise, who was sitting on a chair.

Louise started blushing and while turning away she said, “From now on, eat at the table.”

“Eh?” Saito looked blankly at Louise. That was very unexpected of Louise.

“Come on, sit down quickly.”

Dumbfounded, he sat next to Louise. Malicorne, who always sat there and had caught a cold, started to protest, “Hey Louise, that’s my seat. What do you mean you’ll let your familiar sit on it?”

Louise glared at Malicorne. “If you don’t have seat then just go get a chair”

“Don’t play around with me! Letting a commoner familiar sit down while I have to go get a chair? That’s just wrong! Hey familiar, piss off, that’s my seat. This is a dining table for nobles!”

The chubby Malicorne tried to look intimidating, but he was trembling slightly. This was the legendary familiar who supposedly defeated Guiche and caught Fouquet. What was more, it seemed they had accomplished some incredible feat while they were away from the academy the past couple of days. Malicorne was covered in cold sweat when he told Saito off.

Saito, feeling extremely down due to the growing wall between him and Louise, reacted to the pestering voice. He stood up and grabbed Malicorne’s collar.

He didn’t use much force, but whispered in a threatening voice, “Hey fatty, what did you say?”

Terrified, Malicorne dropped his act and shook his head repeatedly, “A-Ah, nothing, I didn’t mean it!”

“I didn’t mean it, sir.”

“Y-yes, I didn’t mean it sir!”

“Then go get a chair. Let’s eat happily together.”

Malicorne rushed off to get a chair. With an unconcerned look, Louise was waiting for the prayer time before the meal. ''I wonder what happened. What change of heart is this? Why is she being so nice? Surely there’s a reason. Nope,'' he thought. ''The trip to Albion changed Louise.''

It must be … after seeing people injured and killed, these warm feelings have started to spring within her. This reminded Saito of the story about General Tokugawa Tsunayoshi of the Edo period and his command to be compassionate towards animals. The dog shogun took pity on a stray dog, and punished those who bullied it.

So that’s it.

The command to be compassionate towards animals has been set upon Tristan.

The law setter: Louise Françoise le Blanc de la Vallière

The object: familiars as well as dogs, myself in other words.

Saito stopped his imagination and looked at Louise warmly.

‘’You’ve become nicer haven’t you Louise, more like a girl. You’re dazzling like this. Being so nice to someone like me… You’re growing up like a girl.’’

‘’I’ll watch over you carefully - I won’t make a move on you ever again. Until I return to Earth, I will protect you. Even if you don’t like me, I’m happy that you’re being so nice to me.’’

Her radiance mixing in with his sadness and despair, Saito smiled warmly. Louise noticed Saito watching her intently and blushed, “W-Why are you looking at me like that?”

Noticing the vile way he was looking at her, Saito averted his eyes and tightened his hands into fists on his knees. Listen carefully, Saito. Nobles aren’t for dogs like you. Compared to Louise, who’s so beautiful and pure, you are just a homely mole. There’s no way a mole can look at such a cute girl in a decent way.

The thoughts repeated in his mind. Saito’s sadness quickly consumed him, like a bottomless swamp. Saito obediently whispered, “Sorry for being repulsive.”

Louise quickly turned the other way.

''Ugh, she must think I’m weird. The master thinks this mole is weird.''

Saito stared at the food on the plate with a dull face. It was a luxurious meal, but the colors of it seemed to fade before his eyes.

The usual prayer proceeded and breakfast began. Saito quietly ate his food. It was delicious, but he was so miserable he could not taste it.

<center>* * * * *</center>

When Louise entered the classroom, she was quickly surrounded by classmates. There were rumours that she had been on a dangerous journey and had accomplished great feats during her absence.

The truth was a number of students were watching when the leader of the Magic Defence Squad had departed. It wasn’t a quiet scene. They were all eager to know what happened. They would have asked during breakfast if it weren’t for the teachers.

Kirche and Tabitha were already seated. They too were surrounded by a group of students.

“Hey when you and Louise were absent from class, where did you go?” asked Montmorency, grasping her arm.

Glancing at her, Kirche started to elegantly redo her make-up and Tabitha quietly read her book. Tabitha didn’t talk much. As for Kirche, while usually in the mood, she wouldn’t go around telling classmates about their secret journey.

No matter how much their classmates pushed and pulled they couldn’t get anything out of the two and so they changed their target to Guiche and Louise who had just appeared.

Guiche, who liked being surrounded and fussed over, got carried away as expected. “You want to ask me right? You want to know the secrets I know? Ahaha, such a troubled little rabbit!”

Louise broke through the crowd of people and smacked Guiche over the head. “What do you think you’re doing?! You’ll be disliked by the Princess if you say anything, Guiche.”

With a single reference to Henrietta, Guiche became silent at once. Their classmates grew even more suspicious upon seeing this. They surrounded Louise and started pestering her.

“Louise! Louise! What actually happened?”

“Nothing at all. Osman just sent me to the palace on an errand, that’s all. Right Guiche, Kirche, Tabitha?”

Kirche smiled mysteriously, while blowing on her polished nails. Guiche nodded. Tabitha read her book. As no one was willing to speak, the classmates returned to their seats. Like a group of sore losers, they started to talk about Louise angrily.

“Heh, it’s probably nothing important anyway.”

“Yeah, it’s Louise the Zero we’re talking about here. I can’t imagine what great feat she could possibly accomplish when she can’t even use magic.”

“Catching Fouquet was only a fluke. Her familiar just accidentally drew out the power of the Staff of Destruction,” Montmorency said irritatingly, waving her curly hair.

Louise bit her lip, wearing an annoyed expression on her face whilst keeping silent. Saito was shocked. How dare this curly-haired woman insult my Louise? Well, not ‘my’ Louise I guess. A mole like me could never have Louise. Oh well. Even if it’s a girl, Saito would do what he had to.

Just as Montmorency walked off with a satisfied look on her face, Saito casually put his foot out. Montmorency didn’t notice and tripped over Saito’s foot.

“Aaah!”

Montmorency, sporting a red nose from falling face-first to the ground, angrily shouted at Saito, “What are you doing? I’m a noble, how dare a commoner like you trip me!”

Louise said from the side, “It was you who wasn’t paying attention.”

“What, siding with the commoner now, Louise the Zero?!”

“Saito may be a commoner, but he’s my familiar, Montmorency the Flood. Insult him and you insult me, it’s the same thing. Have anything to say to that?”

Montmorency left, muttering angrily to herself. To Saito, Louise, who had just stuck up for him, was suddenly dazzling and he found himself staring at her warmly. Louise felt his gaze and turned her face aside, blushing, “W-What are you looking at?”

Saito, yet again realizing his repulsive stare, apologized to Louise. This homely mole has done it again.

“S-Sorry”

Louise noticed that Saito had been strange since morning. He was more reserved than usual. ''What more do you want, I’m being so nice to you.''

Louise was about to say something to Saito about it, but Mr Colbert had entered the classroom, so she sat back down. Class started.

“Well, everyone,” Mr. Colbert patted his bald head slightly. Until yesterday, he had been frightened of how Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt broke out of prison, suspecting a traitor in the castle. He also thought that it was a serious affair for Tristain.

This morning however, Osman summoned him, telling him that it was “alright already” and he returned to his normal self. Besides, things like politics did not interest him much.

What he did have interest in was knowledge, history and … research. That’s why he liked lessons. He could freely state the results of his research. And so, on a joyful note, he showed the class something strange placed on the desk.

“Mr. Colbert, what’s that?” one student asked.

It really was a strange looking thing. It was a long metallic tube with a metallic pipe stretching out of it. A pair of bellows was connected to the pipe and a crank was attached to the head of the cylinder. The crank was connected to a wheel on the side of the cylinder. Finally, there were gears attached to the wheel and the box.

Staring at the equipment, the students were all wondering what sort of lesson would follow. Clearing his throat, he began his lesson, “Firstly, who can tell me the main characteristics of the fire branch of magic”

The class turned to Kirche. If you were talking about the fire branch of magic in Halkeginia, then you would be referring to Germanian nobles. Among them, the Zerbsts were a famous family. Also, as her nickname, Slight Fever, indicated, she was good at fire magic.

Even though class had started, Kirche still continued to polish her nails. Without taking her eyes off the nail file, she replied languidly, “Passion and destruction.”

“That’s right!” said Mr. Colbert, himself a triangular fire mage whose nickname was Flaming Serpent.

“However, besides passion, only being able to destroy is a bit lonely I think. It depends on the usage, everyone. Depending on how you use it, you can actually do some really fun things. It’s not only for destruction, Miss Zerbst. A battle is not the only time you will see fire.”

“There’s no use in trying to tell Tristain nobles about fire magic,” Kirche said, filled with confidence. Mr. Colbert was not agitated by her disagreement, but smiled instead.

“But, what’s that strange thing you have there?” Kirche asked with a blank look, pointing at the equipment on the desk.

“Hehe. So you finally asked. This is something I invented. It works using oil and fire magic.” The students gaped, staring at the mechanism intently. The mechanism seemed somewhat familiar to Saito, as if he had seen it somewhere before. Being a curious person, he too remained silent and watched intently.

Mr. Colbert continued, “First we vaporize the oil in the bellows.” He stepped repeatedly on the bellows with his foot. “And then, the vaporized oil will go into this cylindrical tube.”

With a cautious look, Colbert stuck his wand inside a small hole he had opened. He recited an incantation. The sound of a blazing fire could suddenly be heard, and as the fire ignited the vaporized oil, the sounds changed into that of explosions.

“Watch carefully everyone! Inside the metallic tube, the power from the explosion is moving the piston up and down!”

The crank attached to the top of the cylinder started to move and the wheel along with it. The spinning wheel opened the door on the box. The gears began moving and a snake puppet came out from inside.

“The power is transferred to the crank which spins the wheel! Look! The snake then comes out to greet us! So interesting!”

The students watched it unenthusiastically. The only one interested seemed to be Saito.

“And then? What’s so special about that?”

Mr. Colbert was sad at the fact that the invention he took so much pride in had been totally ignored. Clearing his throat, he began to explain, “In this example only a snake showed up, but say for instance this mechanism was placed on a carriage. Then, the carriage could move even without horses! It would work on the side of a boat as well by turning a water wheel. Then there wouldn’t be any need for sails!”

“You could just use magic in those cases. There’s no need to use such a weird mechanism.”
After one student said it, the others started to nod in agreement.

“Everybody, listen carefully! If it is improved upon, this could run even without magic! I relied on my fire magic to ignite it, but say flint was used and a way to ignite it every so often was found…” Colbert was obviously getting excited, talking on and on, while the students were all wondering what was so special. The only one who seemed to understand the greatness of his invention seemed to be Saito.

“Mr Colbert, that’s great! That’s an engine!” Saito called up while standing all of a sudden. The whole class turned to him.

“Engine?” Mr. Colbert looked at Saito with a blank look.

“Yes, an engine. It’s used in my world for things just like you said”

“I can tell you’re a perceptive person. You’re Miss Vallière’s familiar yes?”

The fact that he was the legendary familiar Gandálfr who had runes on the back of his hand suddenly came back to Mr. Colbert. He had forgotten since Osman had said to leave it to him … but due to his enthusiasm he started to hold an interest in Saito.

“Where were you born?” he asked eagerly

Louise tugged at Saito’s parker slightly and glared at him slightly “Don’t say anything unnecessary, we’ll look suspicious.”

Agreeing, Saito sat back down.

“Hmm? Where were you born?” Colbert approached Saito with a bright expression. Louise answered for him.

“Mr Colbert, he’s uh … from … ロバ・アル・カリイエ(place name, Roba Aru Kariie) … in the east.

Mr. Colbert was taken aback. “What?! Past the frightening lands of the elves? Wait, he was summoned wasn’t he … so he didn’t have to go through those lands … I see. I hear that the lands the elves govern in the east have advanced technology. So you were born there … I see,” he nodded in comprehension.

Saito turned to Louise, “What?”

“Just play along,” said Louise, stepping on his foot.

“A, Ah yes. I’m from um … ロバ (same place as above, Roba).”

Mr. Colbert nodded again and returned to the mechanism. Standing on the platform once more he looked around the classroom.

“Alright then, who would like to try operating the mechanism? It’s very simple! Just open the hole in the cylinder, put your wand in and recite the ‘ignite’ spell repeatedly. The timing is a bit tricky but once you get used to it, it will be as easy as this,” Mr. Colbert stepped on the bellows with his foot and operated the mechanism once more. The explosive sounds echoed throughout the classroom while the crank and gears moved, followed by the snake showing its face.

“And the joyful snake greets us!”

No one raised their hand. Mr. Colbert tried to get the students interested in his mechanism, saying “joyful snake”, but it didn’t quite work. Disappointed, Colbert drooped his shoulders.

Montmorency, suddenly pointed at Louise, “Louise, you try it!”

Mr. Colbert’s face lit up, “Miss Vallière! You have an interest in the mechanism?”

“Catching Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt and hiding where you were, surely you won’t have trouble with something like this right?” Louise realized Montmorency was trying to embarrass her by making her fail.

It seemed Montmorency didn’t like Louise getting all the attention, such as accomplishing great feats and being the star at balls. Her jealousy was deep and the fact that she was a show off suddenly came back to Louise.

Montmorency continued provoking Louise, “Hey, do it? Louise. Louise the Zero.”

Something in Louise cracked. She just couldn’t keep quiet when Montmorency called her Zero. Louise silently stood up and approached the platform.

Seeing Louise in this state, Saito glared at Montmorency, “Hey Monmon.”

“It’s Montmorency for God’s sake!”

“Don’t provoke Louise! It’ll end up in an explosion!” said Saito, without thinking.

Louise shifted her eyes at Saito's comment. The front row students hid behind their chairs.

Hearing the comment, Mr. Colbert remembered Louise’s skill and the origin of her nickname. Trying to desperately change her mind, he began to persuade her in a flustered manner, “Ah, Miss Vallière. Er, you can do it another time, alright?”

“I have been insulted by Montmorency the Flood,” said Louise in a cold voice. Her reddish brown pupils were filled with rage.

“I shall discipline Miss Montmorency. So, er, could you please withdraw your wand? I do not doubt your skill, but magic doesn’t always succeed. I mean, ‘a dragon can also die from fire’, after all.”

Louise looked sharply at Colbert, “Please let me do it. I do not always fail. Occasionally, I succeed.”

“There are times when I, occasionally, succeed,” said Louise, as though the words were meant for herself, voice shaking. Saito knew there was no stopping Louise now. When Louise was extremely angry, her voice would start to shake.

Mr. Colbert looked up at the ceiling and sighed.

Louise copied Mr. Colbert actions and stepped on the bellows. The vaporized oil was sent to the cylinder. She took a deep breath and stuck her wand inside the cylinder.

“Miss Vallière, uhh …” whispered Mr. Colbert as if he was praying.

With a voice as clear as a bell, she started to recite the spell incantation.

The whole class froze.

As expected, the mechanism exploded. Louise and Mr. Colbert were sent flying towards the black board while the class screamed. The explosion spread the burning oil throughout the room. The students ran around chaotically, avoiding the flames.

As the chair and table were burning, Louise stood up slowly. It was a cruel sight. Her clothes were scorched and her clear complexion was covered in soot. Totally ignoring the chaos within the classroom, she grabbed Mr. Colbert’s arm and whispered, “Mr. Colbert. That machine breaks quite easily.”

Mr Colbert didn’t reply, feeling faint headed. The students replied for him, “It’s you who broke it! You Zero! Louise the Zero!”

“Never mind that, there’s fire! Someone put it out!”

Montmorency stood up and recited a spell. It was the water spell ‘Water Shield’. The barrier of water extinguished the fire and the students applauded Montmorency. Montmorency, as if she had triumphed, said to Louise, “I wonder if that was unnecessary since you’re such a skilled mage and that was a weak fire after all.”

Angry, Louise bit her lip.

<center>* * * * *</center>

That night … It was night by the time the classroom was cleaned up. Tidying up the chairs and desks and wiping the floor was a big task. Exhausted, Louise and Saito returned to their room. Saito collapsed on his haystack. Louise sat down on her bed. It was almost time for bed. Out of habit, Saito went to the closet to get Louise’s clothes. Louise, however, suddenly stood up.

“W-What are you doing?”

Louise blushed and did not reply. Her hands gripped her sheets and started to hang them from her bedposts. The sheets acted as a curtain and hid her bed. Watching Saito out of the corner of her eye, she went to the closet, found her clothes and returned to the bed. Saito could hear the ruffling of clothes as she changed behind the curtain. Depressed, Saito returned to his haystack.

''She doesn’t want to be seen by someone like me. Even if I see you, I won’t do anything strange. I won’t even look anymore. I’m not the wolf you think I am … I’m a mole. Well, you were kissed by a mole, but that was when I got carried away, I made a mistake. I won’t ever do it again Louise. I’ll watch over you properly. This homely mole will watch over you from this haystack.''

Saito endlessly tortured himself with these thoughts. The curtain was taken down. Wearing a negligee, Louise was bathed in moonlight, her hair flowing smoothly. The brilliant moonlight accentuated her divine beauty. After combing her hair with her hands she lay down and switched off the lamp on her bedside table with a flick of her wand. It was a magic lamp that would switch off at the signal of its master. It wasn’t exactly special, but it seemed like something expensive. With the moonlight bathing the room, the atmosphere felt dream-like.

Just as Saito was about to fall asleep, Louise sat up and called out, “Hey Saito.”

“Yes?”

“Always sleeping on the floor is a bit extreme …you can, er, sleep on the bed if you want”

Saito’s body stiffened, “W-What?”

“Don’t get the wrong idea! I’ll hit you if you do anything strange.”

Saito was overwhelmed. ‘’Ah, Louise you really are kind aren’t you. It’s like you’ve changed completely. That harsh experience really did change you…You’re even becoming kind to a disgusting mole like me.’’ With every step closer to the bed, his pulse seemed to double. Louise faced the window, wrapped up in the blanket on the edge of the bed.

“It’s… ok? Even for me? A mole?”

“Yes, it’s ok, don’t make me say the same thing. What do you mean a mole?”

Saito slipped into the bed and covered himself with the blanket, “Sorry.”

He had to apologize for getting carried away and kissing her. He felt he had to. Saito whispered, “Sorry … for kissing you like that.”

Louise didn’t reply.

Saito thought she was sleeping, but it didn’t sound like it. Saito continued, “I … decided before then that I would protect you as I promised Prince Wales.”

“Not only from enemies, but from my own desires as well. I can’t say I’ve done a good job of protecting you so far, so, I’m sorry.” said Saito, saying what was in his mind.

Louise replied in a small voice, ”It’s fine, don’t worry about it.”

Saito grasped the blanket and whispered, “I won’t do it again.”

“Of course,” Louise started to talk, as if determined to tell Saito something, “but, I too have to apologize. Sorry, for just summoning you.”

“That’s ok. It’s not good, but it’s alright.”

“I’ll find a way for you to return home. I don’t know how, but I will. I never heard of another world before.”

“Thanks,” Saito felt relieved.

Squirming a bit, Louise asked Saito, “Your world … there aren’t any mages there right?”

“Nope.”

“There’s only one moon?”

“Only one.”

“That’s weird.”

“No it’s not, it’s this world that’s weird, mages and stuff.”

“What were you doing in that world?”

“I was a high school student”

“High school student?”

“Well it’s not much different from being a student here I guess. Studying is kind of your job.”

“What do people do when they grow up?”

Louise started to bombard Saito with questions. While wondering why, Saito replied, “Hmm, a company employee perhaps, that’s the most common.”

“What’s a company employee?”

He became slightly irritated, but replied, “You work and you earn money.”

“I don’t really understand … but is that what you want to become?”

Saito remained silent. He hadn’t thought of what he wanted to do in the future. He spent his days doing what he liked. His future was neither bright nor dark. Thinking this state of affairs would last forever he just absentmindedly attended school. Saito was a bit troubled by his reply, “I dunno. I haven’t really thought about it.”

“Waldo said you were a legendary familiar. Those runes on the back of your hand are the mark of Gandálfr apparently.”

“I don’t really understand but it seems that Gandálfr is meant to use the sword Derflinger.”

“I wonder if that’s true…”

“Well it has to be, I couldn’t use a sword like that normally.”

“Then, why can’t I use magic? You’re a legendary familiar, yet I’m Louise the Zero. Ugh.”

“I don’t know.”

Louise remained silent for a while. Then she spoke in a serious tone, “You know, I want to become a great mage. I don’t mean a very powerful mage. I just want to be able to cast spells properly. I don’t want to fail every spell I cast and not even know which branch of magic I’m good at.”

Saito remembered the class they had earlier. As usual, Louise had failed.

“Since I was small, I was told I was hopeless. My father and mother didn’t expect anything of me. I was always treated like an idiot, always called Zero … I really don’t have any skill. There isn’t a branch of magic that I’m good at. I’m even clumsy at reciting incantations. I understand it. My teachers, mother and sisters have said it. When you recite an incantation for a spell in your branch of magic, something within your body responds and it circulates within your body. When that rhythm is at a climax, it means that the spell is completed. I have never felt that before.”

Louise’s voice became smaller, “But, I want to at least be able to do things like everyone else. Otherwise, I get the feeling I won’t be able to be happy with myself.”

Louise became silent once more. Saito did not know what to say to comfort her. Some time passed before Saito began to speak.

“Even if you can’t use magic … you’re normal. Not just normal … you’re cute. And you’ve been so kind recently as well. You have your own qualities. Even if you can’t use magic, you’re a great person…”

Ending his incoherent reply, Saito turned towards Louise. She had already fallen asleep. Her innocent face took his breath away. It seemed she had drifted off while Saito was thinking of his reply. Her pinkish blond hair mixed with the moonlight, shining brightly. Steady breathing could be heard from her small pink lips.

Looking at those lips, he wanted to press his lips against hers once more and, without even realizing it, he started to move his face forward. But, he stopped. It was cowardly to kiss a girl who wasn’t even his lover while she was sleeping. I’m not your lover… but I will protect you. So don’t worry Louise.

Smiling warmly at Louise, Saito closed his eyes. With Louise’s breathing as a lullaby, Saito fell asleep.

Louise opened her eyes once Saito had fallen asleep. She knit her eyebrows and whispered, “I was even pretending to sleep”. Louise hugged her pillow, and bit her lips. It’s so different she thought. When he was making a move on her, he did it rashly like an idiot and yet when he’s obedient, he’s totally obedient.

''I don’t understand. I don’t understand what he’s thinking at all.'' Louise rested her hands on her chest. When Saito was next to her, her chest really did throb. So these feelings really are true?

She wanted to return the favour to Saito, who had been so kind and had saved her so many times… But that wasn’t the only thing. It was the first time she had felt these feelings for someone of the opposite sex and she didn’t know what to do. She didn’t allow Saito to help her change because of this. Once she recognized these feelings, she became embarrassed at the mere thought of him looking at her skin. She didn't want him to see her face after she had just woken up.

''When did I start having these feelings for Saito? Probably since that time,'' Louise thought. Just when she was about to be killed by Fouquet’s golem, she was hugged by Saito. Her heart throbbed. Despite the fact she was about to die, her heart beat loudly. There was also the time when Waldo was about to kill her. Saito jumped in and saved her. But the time her heart beat the fastest was when they were riding the dragon and he had kissed her. After that she couldn’t look at Saito’s face.

''I wonder what Saito thinks of me? An unpleasant girl? A selfish and mean master? Or perhaps he likes me? Well, he kissed me, so he must like me. Or could it be that he’s the same as Guiche and just likes women? I wonder which one. I want to know. Anyhow, why didn’t he do anything when I was just sleeping beside him,'' Louise thought.

‘’Of course, if he did anything now I’d kick him in the crotch.’’

‘’But…but…’’ Louise tapped Saito’s pillow. He didn’t wake up. She looked around restlessly. Other than the moon, nothing was looking at her. She moved towards Saito’s face. Her pulse started to quicken. She pressed her lips upon his softly, only for about two seconds. It was the kind of kiss the person wasn’t sure had even taken place.

Saito turned over.

Louise panicked slightly and drew away from his face, sinking into the blanket hugging her pillow.

''What am I doing? To my familiar as well. I’m such an idiot.''

She looked at Saito’s face. He was kind of cool: coming from another world, being obedient at times yet carried away at other times for absolutely no reason. ''The legendary familiar … I wonder if I really do like him? Is this what they call liking someone?''

While she repeated her thoughts, she traced her lips with her fingers. The heat was like an iron against her lips. ''How can I find the answer to this question?''

"I don’t want to be left not knowing the answer…" whispered Louise as she closed her eyes.

----

<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;"
|-
| Return to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima|Main Page]]
| Back to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter1|Chapter 1]]
| Forward to [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume3_Chapter3|Chapter 3]]
|-
|}
</noinclude>

Zero no Tsukaima

2007-08-17T19:45:34Z

Gandalfr: /* Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン */

== Update ==

++Sticky!++

Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

You can read the teaser [http://project.baka-tsuki.net/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:teaser Here] - By Enoylawnisk on Aquastar Forum

----

Old updates can be found on the [[Znt_archive_page|Archive Page]]

*May 19, 2007
*'''Please give a warm Baka-Tsuki welcome new Translator Christof, and a belate welcome to Claies (beause I forgot to update this page) to the project'''
*Chapter 06 is completed.

*June 14, 2007
*'''Chapter 7 special preview up! Limited time only''' See Registration page for credits.

----

== This Project is a Joint Collaboration ==

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 Joint Collaboration] with [http://www.kawaiiheavens.net/index.php?z=subcategory&id=17 Kawaii Heaven] who are also working on the Manga version of this series.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=248 Baka-Tsuki Members who are Interested in this series please read this]

==== Collaboration Partners ====

This project is a joint effort with the following active group(s).

* [http://www.kawaiiheavens.net Kawaii Heavens]
::*Chapter 01
::*Chapter 02
::*Chapter 03
::*Chapter 04
::*Chapter 05

::*All current chapters

==== Previous Collaboration Partners ====
* [http://www.k-neko.net Kuroneko]
::*Chapter 01
::*Chapter 02

=== [[Translators_Zero_no_Tsukaima_Registration|Registration]] ===

Translators are requested to mark the chapter you are planning or currently translating on the [[Translators_Zero_no_Tsukaima_Registration|Registration Page]] for all Zero no Tsukaima Chapters.

----

== The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series, by Noboru Yamaguchi ==

===Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔===

'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Color Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]

'''Gandalfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Earth]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]
::*Author's Notes

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]] - [Proofreading Stage]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]] - [Proofreading Stage]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]] - [25% Translated]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]] - [25% Translated]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]] - [10% Translated]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]] - [Proofreading Stage]
::*Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|~Preview~]]
::*Chapter 8 - The Eve Before the Final Battle in Newcastle [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|~Preview~]]
::*Chapter 9 - The Final Battle

note : These are loose translations. >_>

== Project Staff ==

*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]] & [[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]

=== Translators ===

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*''None''

'''M.I.A'''
::*''None''

'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"

=== Editors ===

This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔
* Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind/ 風のアルビオン
* Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書
* Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊
* Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日
* Volume 6 - The Flame Red Jewel of Redemption / 贖罪の炎赤玉
* Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭
* Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲
* Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会
* Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者

Zero no Tsukaima

2007-08-17T19:42:31Z

Gandalfr: /* Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔 */

== Update ==

++Sticky!++

Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

You can read the teaser [http://project.baka-tsuki.net/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:teaser Here] - By Enoylawnisk on Aquastar Forum

----

Old updates can be found on the [[Znt_archive_page|Archive Page]]

*May 19, 2007
*'''Please give a warm Baka-Tsuki welcome new Translator Christof, and a belate welcome to Claies (beause I forgot to update this page) to the project'''
*Chapter 06 is completed.

*June 14, 2007
*'''Chapter 7 special preview up! Limited time only''' See Registration page for credits.

----

== This Project is a Joint Collaboration ==

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 Joint Collaboration] with [http://www.kawaiiheavens.net/index.php?z=subcategory&id=17 Kawaii Heaven] who are also working on the Manga version of this series.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=248 Baka-Tsuki Members who are Interested in this series please read this]

==== Collaboration Partners ====

This project is a joint effort with the following active group(s).

* [http://www.kawaiiheavens.net Kawaii Heavens]
::*Chapter 01
::*Chapter 02
::*Chapter 03
::*Chapter 04
::*Chapter 05

::*All current chapters

==== Previous Collaboration Partners ====
* [http://www.k-neko.net Kuroneko]
::*Chapter 01
::*Chapter 02

=== [[Translators_Zero_no_Tsukaima_Registration|Registration]] ===

Translators are requested to mark the chapter you are planning or currently translating on the [[Translators_Zero_no_Tsukaima_Registration|Registration Page]] for all Zero no Tsukaima Chapters.

----

== The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series, by Noboru Yamaguchi ==

===Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔===

'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Color Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]

'''Gandalfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Earth]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]
::*Author's Notes

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]] - [Initial translation complete; awaiting proofreading]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]] - [Initial translation complete; awaiting proofreading]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]] - [25% Completed]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]] - [25% Completed]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]] - [10% Completed]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]] - [Initial translation complete; awaiting proofreading]
::*Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|~Preview~]]
::*Chapter 8 - The Night/Evening Before the Final Battle/Showdown in Newcastle [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|~Preview~]]
::*Chapter 9 - Final Battle/Showdown

note : These are loose translations. >_>

== Project Staff ==

*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]] & [[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]

=== Translators ===

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*''None''

'''M.I.A'''
::*''None''

'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"

=== Editors ===

This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔
* Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind/ 風のアルビオン
* Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書
* Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊
* Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日
* Volume 6 - The Flame Red Jewel of Redemption / 贖罪の炎赤玉
* Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭
* Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲
* Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会
* Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者

Zero no Tsukaima

2007-08-17T19:42:00Z

Gandalfr: /* Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar/ゼロの使い魔 */

== Update ==

++Sticky!++

Visit the [http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/index.php Baka-Tsuki Project Forum] to discuss this series and other information from Baka-Tsuki.

You can read the teaser [http://project.baka-tsuki.net/index.php?title=Zero_no_Tsukaima:teaser Here] - By Enoylawnisk on Aquastar Forum

----

Old updates can be found on the [[Znt_archive_page|Archive Page]]

*May 19, 2007
*'''Please give a warm Baka-Tsuki welcome new Translator Christof, and a belate welcome to Claies (beause I forgot to update this page) to the project'''
*Chapter 06 is completed.

*June 14, 2007
*'''Chapter 7 special preview up! Limited time only''' See Registration page for credits.

----

== This Project is a Joint Collaboration ==

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=246 Joint Collaboration] with [http://www.kawaiiheavens.net/index.php?z=subcategory&id=17 Kawaii Heaven] who are also working on the Manga version of this series.

[http://www.baka-tsuki.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=248 Baka-Tsuki Members who are Interested in this series please read this]

==== Collaboration Partners ====

This project is a joint effort with the following active group(s).

* [http://www.kawaiiheavens.net Kawaii Heavens]
::*Chapter 01
::*Chapter 02
::*Chapter 03
::*Chapter 04
::*Chapter 05

::*All current chapters

==== Previous Collaboration Partners ====
* [http://www.k-neko.net Kuroneko]
::*Chapter 01
::*Chapter 02

=== [[Translators_Zero_no_Tsukaima_Registration|Registration]] ===

Translators are requested to mark the chapter you are planning or currently translating on the [[Translators_Zero_no_Tsukaima_Registration|Registration Page]] for all Zero no Tsukaima Chapters.

----

== The ''Zero no Tsukaima'' series, by Noboru Yamaguchi ==

===Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar/ゼロの使い魔===

'''Kingdom of Magic'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Illustrations|Color Illustrations]]
::*[[Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1_Insert_&_Back Cover|Insert & Back Cover]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - I'm a Familiar]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Louise the Zero]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - Legend]]

'''Gandalfr'''
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - A Familiar's Day]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - Kirche the Ardent]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - Tristain's Arms Dealer]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter7|Chapter 7 - Fouquet the Crumbling Earth]]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume1_Chapter8|Chapter 8 - The Staff of Destruction]]
::*Author's Notes

=== Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind / 風のアルビオン===

::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter1|Chapter 1 - A Secret Boat]] - [Initial translation complete; awaiting proofreading]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter2|Chapter 2 - Her Majesty's Melancholy]] - [Initial translation complete; awaiting proofreading]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter3|Chapter 3 - A Childhood Friend's Request]] - [25% Completed]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter4|Chapter 4 - Port City - La Rochelle]] - [25% Completed]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter5|Chapter 5 - A Rest Day Before Leaving]] - [10% Completed]
::*[[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter6|Chapter 6 - The White Country]] - [Initial translation complete; awaiting proofreading]
::*Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter7_%7EPreview%7E|~Preview~]]
::*Chapter 8 - The Night/Evening Before the Final Battle/Showdown in Newcastle [[Zero_no_Tsukaima:Volume2_Chapter8_%7EPreview%7E|~Preview~]]
::*Chapter 9 - Final Battle/Showdown

note : These are loose translations. >_>

== Project Staff ==

*Project Administrator: [[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]] & [[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
*Project Supervisor: [[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]

=== Translators ===

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Cala-kun|Cala-kun]]
::*[[user:Claies|Claies]]
::*[[user:christof|christof]]
::*[[user:naturesbless|naturesbless]]

'''A.W.O.L'''
::*''None''

'''M.I.A'''
::*''None''

'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Sushi-Y|Sushi-Y]]
::*[[user:Nidema|Nidema]]
::*[[user:SaiyaJedi|SaiyaJedi]] <- aka "SaitoFromEarth"

=== Editors ===

This is the Project Editorial Team.
They will regularly patrol the projects to prevent vandalism & make sure the guidelines are implemented. If you have any inquiries about certain edits please contact any one of the members.

'''ACTIVE'''
::*[[user:Se-chan|Se-Chan]]
::*[[user:Onizuka-gto|Onizuka-gto]]
::*[[user:BaKaFiSh|BaKaFiSh]]
::*[[user:Darkoneko|Darkoneko]]
::*[[user:Rednal|Rednal]]
'''A.W.O.L'''
::*[[user:Bicube|Bicube]]
::*[[user:The naming game|The naming game]]
'''M.I.A'''
::*[[user:Nandeyanen|Nandeyanen]]
'''K.I.A'''
::*[[user:Da~Mike|Da~Mike]]
::*[[user:BlckKnght|BlckKnght]]
::*[[user:Crowkenobi|Crowkenobi]]
::*[[user:Andiyar|Andiyar]]

== Series Overview ==
* Volume 1 - Zero's Familiar / ゼロの使い魔
* Volume 2 - Albion of the Wind/ 風のアルビオン
* Volume 3 - The Founder's Prayer Book / 始祖の祈祷書
* Volume 4 - The Water Spirit of Oath / 誓約の水精霊
* Volume 5 - Tristania's Holiday / トリスタニアの休日
* Volume 6 - The Flame Red Jewel of Redemption / 贖罪の炎赤玉
* Volume 7 - The Silver Pentecost / 銀の降臨祭
* Volume 8 - The Serenade of Nostalgia / 望郷の小夜曲
* Volume 9 - The Ball of Twin Moons / 双月の舞踏会
* Volume 10 - The Hero of Ivaldi / イーヴァルディの勇者

User:Gandalfr

2007-08-12T05:54:40Z

Gandalfr: New page: A well-wishing editor.

A well-wishing editor.

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume2 Chapter7 - MTL

2007-08-12T05:53:00Z

Gandalfr:

== Chapter 7 - The Prince of a Dying Country ==

'''
This is a preview script.
Please be aware that the degree of translation error may be higher than usual due to the translation speed.
'''
----

Saito was imprisoned by the pirates. It seemed Mary Galante's (?) crew had helped in taking over the ship.

Saito’s sword was taken from him, as were Warde and Louise’s wands. Their hands and feet were otherwise free. Without wands, the mages were as harmless as the weaponless Saito. The same could not be said about Louise. (?)

In the background, barrels of wine, sacks of grain and casks of gunpowder were disorderly spread about. Heavy cannonballs were piled in the corner of the hold.

Warde explored the cargo with great interest.

Saito sat down in a corner of the hold. He frowned due to the pain in his injured arm.

Louise looked worriedly at Saito in this state. “As I thought, the injury hurts after all!"

"It's nothing," Saito said snappishly.

"It's not nothing - show me!" Louise forcefully grabbed Saito's arm and tugged at his sleeve.

"Kya!"

It looked awful. The severe injury extended from left shoulder to wrist and was inflicted by Masked Man’s lightning spell. It seemed to be getting worse.

The shoulder was under an awful convulsion.

"Isn’t that an awful burn?! Should I feel relieved now?!" Louse shouted. She stood up and started knocking on the door.

"Somebody! Somebody come!"

The guard stood up. "Eh?"

"Water! Is there a mage? We need a water mage! There is an injured person! We need to heal him!"

"There is no such thing."

"Lies! It is so!"

Warde, who was taken back with a surprise, watched Louise dumbfounded. Saito gripped Louise's shoulder.

"Be obedient. You are the prisoner here."

"No! I won't, you are injured!"

"Stop saying that!" Saito shouted. Louise cringed under Saito's threatening attitude. Her pupils started getting moist. However, Louise gulped and tried to hold back the oncoming tears.

"D-do not cry."

"I am not crying. There is no master who would cry in front of her familiar!"

Saito turned his face away. "I see."

"I would never cry in front of you."

Louise walked to the other wall and sat down, facing away from Saito. Her body was shivering. Saito went to Warde and tapped his shoulder.

"Please comfort her."

"Why?"

"Aren't you Louise's fiancé?"

Wardes nodded and turned towards Louise, hugging her shoulders from behind. Saito collapsed to the ground, averting his eyes from Warde and Louise. The pain in his arm kept getting worse. It was Saito's fault for preventing Louise from helping him.

''It is a suitable punishment for a being as worthless as myself. My punishment... doesn't hurt that much. Uwaa-"

His muttering was interrupted by the opening door. A fat man with a plate of soup entered. "Rice."

When Saito, who was near the door, tried to take it, the man suddenly lifted the plate up. "Only after you answered few questions."

Louise, whose eyes were puffy, stood up. "Ask."

"What business have you in Albion?"

"Travelling." Louise said in a decisive voice, putting her hand to her waist.

"Noble of Tristain, why would you travel to Albion? Why would you be sightseeing in such a place?"

"I do not have to tell you such things."

"Still pretending to be tough, despite being scared and crying?"

Louise turned her face away when the pirate started laughing. She grabbed a plate with soup and water to throw at him, but Saito took it from her.

"Hey! I cannot eat soup made by such people!" Louise faced away again.

"It's not healthy to stay hungry." Hearing Warde say this, Louise took the plate of soup while pouting.

The three ate soup from one plate. In normal circumstances, this would never happen.

Warde leaned against the wall with a tired expression.

Louise tore up the sleeve of her shirt and soaked it in water, trying to cool down Saito's wound with it.

"It's alright."

"It's not alright!" Louise stared firmly at Saito with her puffy eyes. "Because you are my familiar, you have to listen to what I tell you!"

Saito averted his face. Louise, who was treating his arm softly, looked up at him. "What is it?"

"You have more important duties to take care of."

"That is so, but this injury is also very important! Clear?!"

Saito continued to look away, finally noticing the casks of gunpowder. "We could escape using that."

"Eh?" Louise suspiciously followed Saito's gaze. Saito opened the barrel and filled the plate with gunpowder.

Wardes muttered tiredly. "And where would you run? Only emptiness surrounds us."

Saito sat down again with a thump. "...but, sitting like this and doing nothing..."

Then the door opened again. This time it was a thin pirate standing before them. The pirate looked at the three with piercing eyes and asked, "Good evening, are you the aristocrats going to Albion?"

Louise did not answer.

"Oi oi, judging from your silence it’s the truth. Though we may not look like it, we respect nobles. Thanks to the aristocrats our business goes well."

"But, isn't this a warship of rebels?"

"No, no, though we are employed, we cooperate in a fifty-fifty relationship with each other. We are related to both factions. So how is it? Are you nobles? If it is true, then you will be let free at the closest port."

Saito felt relieved. Since Louise was an aristocrat everything would be settled peacefully then. They would be taken to the nearest port.

However, Louise did not nod her head in agreement. Instead, she continued glaring at the pirate's forehead. "How dare you have anything to do with those dirty rebels? Do not disregard Albion’s nobles. I myself am from one of the noble families. Albion is still a kingdom, as the royal family is still the legitimate government of Albion. As I am an aristocrat who comes here on behalf of Tristain, I am an ambassador. I demand ambassadorial treatment from you."

Saito wildly opened his mouth and muttered, "Are you an idiot?"

"Who are you calling an idiot? You’re the idiot! Trying to act cool while being injured so badly!" Louise turned to Saito and shouted angrily.

"But, you should choose the time and place for your straightforwardness better!"

"Shut up! You are my familiar and should listen to what I say! Anyway, show your arm! Hey!"

Surprised Saito clasped his arm to his side, while Louise tried to pull Saito's arm with a jerk.

The pirate laughed at the scene.

"Honestly, you should stop doing that!"

"You are wrong, I can't let you be hurt so carelessly," Louise asserted.

"Eh?” Saito said in a surprised voice.

"It's because you are my familiar... t-that's why..."

"I'll go report to the boss then," the pirate left laughing.

Saito was so surprised that he wasn't able to reply to Louise properly.

"Your arm, show it."

"Don't act this way. Aren't there more important things to be concerned about? Like our present situation."

Louise said decisively, "I won't let such things weigh me down, as long as we have the slightest chance of survival."

Louise stood up straightly. Though the thought of marrying Warde made her feel awkward initially, the feeling was no longer so strong.

"…… In any case, you lied to them."

"Don't talk nonsense. Do you seriously think that lying to such people is a bad thing?"

Saito sighed tiredly. Wardes came over and tapped Louise's shoulder. "Don't say such things Louise, you are still my bride."

Saito looked away dejectedly. Louise face showed mixed feelings, as she looked down.

The door opened again, it was the same thin pirate who said, "The boss calls. "

'''***'''

The pirate climbed the narrow stairs and took the three to a splendid room. It was build on the upper part of the deck.

The Boss ... He seemed to be the leader or captain of the pirates.

As the door opened, one could see a gorgeous dinner table with a pirate sitting at one end. He was playing with a cane topped by a large crystal. It seemed he was a mage himself. The Boss’ room was very different from what one would expect of a pirate.

He looked intensively at Louise as she entered the room. The thin pirate who had lead them here poked her slightly from behind. "Hey, you are standing in front of the Boss, so greet him properly."
　
However, Louise just stood there glaring at the Boss, who smiled at her.

"Ah, I like a strong willed woman. You are not a child at all. "

"I demand ambassadorial treatment," Louise, ignoring the Boss’ words, repeated her demand.

"And what would be the message you are trying to send?" The Boss said, ignoring Louise's words. "And did you say royal?"

"Yes, I did."

"Do you go to [Nanashi]? They will be gone tomorrow."

"I won't tell you."

But the Boss said to Louise in a joyful voice, "Are you willing to betray the nobles? Otherwise, even if you are a mage, I might not guarantee your safety even for a considerable ransom."

"I'd rather die."

Saito poked Louise, noticing her trembling body. She was scared. But even so, she looked straight into the Boss’ eyes. Saito remembered his duel with Guiche. ''I was scared at that time. I thought I was going to die. But I didn’t bow my head. Today, Louise is in the same situation, standing in front of a scary opponent but able to withstand it because she has something important to her.'' This Louise looked really amazing.

"I'll ask you again. Are you willing to betray the nobles?"

Louise looked up. She put her hands to her waist, and put out her chest. However, Saito interrupted her before she could open her mouth. "She answered you already."

"And who are you?" The Boss looked at Saito with a piercing glare, with eyes that seemed to see his deepest secrets. But Saito looked straight back at the Boss, just as Louise had.

"A familiar."

"Familiar?"

"Seems so."

The Boss started laughing. He laughed loudly.

"I knew that Tristain’s nobles were weird, but not that they were so helplessly. Oh my, my stomach hurts," the Boss said while standing up and laughing. Saito and the others were puzzled by the sudden change in atmosphere and looked at each other.

"Oh, I am sorry. As a noble, I should properly introduce myself as well." The pirate, who was laughing loudly, suddenly stood up straight.

He removed his black curly hair from his head. He had been wearing a wig. He also removed the black eye patch and his fake beard. Standing before them was a young man with blond hair.

"I am general of the Albion Royal Air Force, and the Commander of our country’s fleet. Though, to tell the truth, this warship named the "Eagle" is the only ship in our fleet. A powerless fleet. Oh dear, even commoners could easily beat it." The man bowed as he introduced himself.

"I am prince of the Kingdom of Albion, Wales Tudor."

Louise’s mouth opened wide. Saito couldn't take his eyes from the surprising appearance of the young prince of Albion. Warde watched the Prince with great interest.

Wales smiled charmingly and moved a chair for Louise to sit down.

"Welcome to Albion, Ambassador. Now, let’s talk about your message."

However, Louise was still speechless. She just stood there, dumbfounded, unable to move.

"Why do I dress up as a pirate? To hide myself? No, the rich rebels sent a lot of support to the rebellion, and it is a basic war tactic to cut my enemy's supply line. Even if I have to do that in such an undignified way as to dress myself up as a dirty pirate," Wales said laughingly.

"No, it was really impolite to treat an ambassador like that. But you have to admit you don't look much like one of the royal messengers yourself. And I never thought support would come from other country's nobles. Yet I still should apologize."

Even after Wales’ words, Louise's mouth still opened and closed soundlessly. She wasn't mentally prepared to be in the Prince’s presence so suddenly.

"We brought a secret letter from Her Highness, Princess Henrietta," Warde said while bowing gracefully.

"Oh, from Her Highness. And you are?"

"Captain of Tristain's Griffin Knights, Viscount Warde."

Then Wardes introduced Louise. "And this is Her Highness’ ambassador from the de la Vallière family and her familiar, Your Highness."

"Indeed! Such a splendid noble. And I only have my ten bodyguards to greet you, such a miserable greeting. Then, do you still have the secret letter?"

Louise took out Henrietta's letter from her clothes in a flustered manner. However, she stopped before giving it to Wales. After few moments of hesitation she opened her mouth. "B-but..."

"What?"

"Excuse me, but are you really the Prince?"
　
Wales laughed. "Oh dear, you won't believe me even if I showed you my true face. I am Wales. And I am really the Prince. I will show you some evidence then," Wales said after seeing the water ruby ring shining on Louise's finger.

Louise's hand was taken and the ring that shone on her finger was removed. The Prince brought it close to his ruby ring. The two rings reacted to each other, shining with a brilliant light.

"This ring belongs to the Albion royal family, the ruby of the Wind, while that one belongs to Henrietta from Tristain’s royal family and is a ruby of the Water. Right?"

Louise nodded.

"Water and wind make the rainbow. The rainbow that forms between our royal families."

"True, I am sorry for my impoliteness." Louise handed Wales the letter and bowed.

After looking at the letter lovingly, Wales kissed the seal before removing it carefully. The paper inside was taken out, and Wales began to read. For some time he read with a serious expression.

"Is the Princess marrying? That beautiful Henrietta. My beloved... cousin."

Warde bowed silently, with an affirmative expression. Wales dropped his glance to the letter again and smiled when he read the last line. "Understood. The princess is informing me with this that she wants you to return with the reply to this letter. It's of utmost important. The Princess also hopes that I will get the chance to read it.”

Louise’s face beamed up with pleasure.

"However, I won't give it to you for now. I will properly return it with my answer in Newcastle, instead of this ship," Wales said laughingly. "So, even though its troublesome, please come with me to Newcastle."

The end of Chapter 7.

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume2 Chapter1

2007-06-28T21:51:25Z

Gandalfr:

'''Chapter One - A Secret Boat'''

Louise was lying on her bed. She dreamt that she was back in her homeland, three days' ride away from the Tristain Academy, where she was born.

The young Louise in her dream was running around near the house, eventually hiding in maze-like vegetation to hide from her pursuers.

“Louise, where are you? Come out now!” shouted her mother. In her dream, Louise was being reprimanded due to her poor results in magical studies. She was constantly being compared with her sisters, whom had much better results than her.

Louise saw a pair of shoes below the bushes.

“Miss Louise is really bad at magic!”

“I totally agree. Why can’t she be like her two older sisters who are so good with magic?”

Louise, upon hearing that, felt sad and dejected as she bit her lips. The servants have started looking for her in the vegetation. Louise tried her best to escape. She retreated to the place she called the “Secret Garden” – the central lake.

The Secret Garden was the only place where Louise felt at ease. It was tranquil, with no one else around. Flowers bloomed everywhere and birds gathered on the benches near the lake. And in the middle of the lake there was a small island on which a small house made of white marble rested.

Next to the island was a small boat originally used for leisure, but now derelict and forgotten. Her older sisters had grown up, and were busy studying magic. Her father, who had retired from his military duties, now spends his time mingling with the nobles nearby. Her father's only pastime was hunting wild game. Her mother's only interested was to teach her daughters and could not care less about anything else.

Therefore, besides Louise, no one ever came to the forgotten lake anymore, much less remembered that small boat. That is why whenever Louise was reprimanded; she would come to this place.

In Louise’s dream, the younger version of her jumped on to the boat and snuggled into a blanket that was prepared earlier.

As she hid inside her blanket, a noble clad in a cloak appeared from the mist-covered island.

The noble was about sixteen years old. In Louise’s dream, she was only six years old, a ten year difference lay between them.

“Have you been crying, Louise?” His face could not be seen as it was covered by a large hat.

But Louise knew exactly who he was: it was the Viscount, the noble whom had just inherited the lands around her homeland. Louise felt warm and fuzzy inside, the Viscount was the man of her dreams. They had often frequented banquets together and, furthermore, their fathers had already made an engagement.

“Is that you, Viscount?”

Louise haphazardly covered her face; she did not want the man of her dreams to see her crying. It would be embarrassing.

“I was invited by your father today regarding the engagement.”

Hearing this, Louise was even more embarrassed to the point that she did not even dare lift her head up.

“Really?

“But that would not be possible, Viscount.”

“Louise, my small and dainty Louise, do you dislike me?” The Viscount said in jest.

Louise gently shook her head and said abashedly, ”No, it’s not that. It's just that I’m still young and unready ...”

The face hidden underneath the hat revealed a smile and extended a hand out to Louise.

“Viscount.”

“Lady, please take hold of my hand. Quickly, the banquet is about to start.”

“But…”

“Have you been scolded again? Don’t worry I’ll talk to your father.” the Viscount said.

Louise nodded, stood up and reached for the Viscount’s hand. What big hands, aren't those the hands that I have always dreamt of holding?

Just as she was about to grasp the Viscount’s hand, a sudden gust of wind blew the hat from the Viscount’s head.

“Eh?!” Louise looked at his face, perplexed. Because it was a dream, Louise had returned to her sixteen year old self.

“What ... What are you doing?”

The person underneath the hat was not the Viscount, but that of her familiar, Saito.

“Louise, come quickly.”

“It doesn’t matter whether I come or not, why are you here?”

“Don’t be so narrow minded, haven’t you fallen for me already?” replied Saito, whom was impudently dressed in the Viscount’s clothes.

One has to wonder where he got that much confidence from.

“Don’t be stupid, I was just muddle-headed that time, you better stop dreaming!”

“Stop making up excuses, my Louise.”

“Who is 'your Louise'?!”

Saito pretended not to hear her at all, and instead came closer to Louise.

“What are you trying to do, you idiot?!”

Ignoring her complaints, Saito proceeded and lifted Louise, whom was in the boat, into his arms.

“Why is it you?” Louise said in frustration while punching Saito. But Saito did not get angry at all, instead his grin became wider. This made Louise slowly turn red from embarrassment. She did not know the exact reason, but she felt good in Saito’s arms. This made Louise even more anxious.

Saito, lying in his bed, slowly opened his eyes. The twin moons in full circle shone onto the room, lighting it up brightly. Louise, sleeping in her bed, made moaned as though she was having a nightmare.

Saito prayed that she would continue to sleep. He quietly got up and slowly approached the sleeping Louise.

“Sheesh...” Saito turned around and put his index finger onto his lips.

“Don't want me to speak? Why not?”

“Sheesh...” Saito shook his head, once again drew his middle finger across his lips and stared at his partner ,Derflinger, with annoyance.

“I won’t forgive you for giving me the cold shoulder. My partner wakes up in the middle of the night without tell me the reason. This makes me angry and depressed!”

After saying this, Derflinger moved and shook his body, like he was really angry. What a difficult sword.

Awakened by the rattling of the sword, Louise turned around and opened her eyes.

Saito’s heart skipped a beat.

Sitting up, Louise started to scold Saito.

“Don’t be so full of yourself! You better do some cleaning up, don't you see the dust gathered everywhere? Don’t tell me that you have done it already, you slow witted fellow, and you’re such a dimwit!”

Saito’s body was frozen solid, as though the “Harden” spell had been casted on him.

But after Louise finished scolding Saito, she lay down once more and slept. Apparently, she was just talking in her sleep. Even in her sleep Louise was ordering Saito about. Saito felt simultaneously relieved and saddened.

Derflinger, who was watching Saito all this time, gave a hapless sigh.

“She’s talking in her dreams huh? But it doesn’t seem to be music to your ears, Saito.”

Saito stared angrily at Derflinger who had almost spoiled his plan and quickly walked towards him and said, “You better keep quiet, you idiot!”

“You’re really too much, I shall not forgive you! If my partner wants me to be silent, I will definitely be silent! But for suddenly waking up in the middle of the night and being so sneaky about it, you’ll definitely suffer retribution even if you tell me your reason now.”

Derflinger’s sense of curiosity is the same as his partner's. It seems he wants to know Saito’s reason for waking up in the middle of the night no matter what it takes.

Saito sighed, and then pointed to the sleeping Louise.

“What about the Noble’s daughter?”

“What do you think partner?”

Saito used his hands and made a gesture resembling a heart.

“What’s that mean?”

“It represents love.”

“That girl likes you, partner?”

“Yes.”

“How do you know?”

Saito stood up, and danced while not making any noise.

“Ah ... you are referring to the ball?”

“You saw Louise’s expression while we were dancing right?”

“Yeah, I saw it.”

“Her face was so red ...” Saito said while in a daze.

“Yeah, it was very red.”

“She seemed to want to hold my hand and not let them go.”

“Are you sure!?”

“Derf, you’re just a piece of metal, so you’ll never understand a girl’s heart. If a girl looks at a male like that, it means she’s indirectly telling him that she likes him.” Saito said, while knocking on the sword.

“True, I’m but a sword and I don’t understand interpersonal relationships at all. But since you say so partner, it must probably be true.”

Saito nodded happily and said, “You’re really sensible, Derflinger!”

“Then, my good partner, since you’re sure that she likes you, are you going to make her your girlfriend?”

“Yes! I’m sure that she likes me and I’d like her to be my girlfriend!”

“That’s impossible. I’ve been around for a long time and this is the first time I’ve heard of a familiar having an affair with its master. You’re incredible!”

“Ah ... that feels good. Come, praise me again.”

“My partner, you’re fantastic!”

Saito stood up and buoyantly asked, “Derf, who's the whose handsome man in the world?”

“Of course it’s you, partner.”

“Who is the greatest person in this world without magic?”

“Of course it’s you, partner.”

The praises went straight to Saito's head. He felt as if the whole world was cheering for him. One has to wonder if he has a problem with his IQ.
“Louise is really fortunate that I have taken a liking to her. The great and handsome me.”

“If that haughty girl really likes you, then why did she have to scold you even in her dreams?”

Derflinger wanted to continue voicing his opinions, but was stopped by Saito. “Louise is in reality extremely stubborn. She would not bare her heart that easily.”

“Is that so?”

“If I went over and asked her, she would definitely reply: 'What are you saying? You stupid familiar!' “

“Like you said, do you really know her inside out, partner?”

“Of course! Although she’s always denying it, in reality she desperately wants me to ‘conquer’ her. She’s already deeply in love with me, but Louise is a very headstrong girl, she won’t tell me that she likes me directly due to her pride.”

“Partner, you must be a genius to have deduced this.”

“So now, I’m to represent planet Earth and make this Bishōjo (1) from Halkeginia mine. You understand don’t you, Derf? So could you do me a favor and keep your mouth shut?”

Derflinger shook his body, signifying agreement.

“If that’s the case, I will remain silent then.”

Saito thanked Derflinger and once again approached Louise.

Louise was still in deep sleep. No matter from what angle you look at the sleeping Louise, she still looks as beautiful as ever. Saito took a deep breath; the room was filled with a nice fragrance.

Saito, trembling slowly, lifted Louise’s blanket.

Moonlight shone onto Louise who was wearing a nightgown. Even though Louise was wearing her nightie, one could still feel her smooth and supple skin through it. Although just slightly, her breasts had developed. Also, Louise did not like to wear undergarments when sleeping. Saito knew this extremely well - he was the one who prepared her undergarments every morning.

Saito was so touched that tears nearly came out of his eyes. From now onwards the petite and cute girl will finally be mine, he thought to himself. He has been waiting for this moment for a week, ever since the ball.

Rubbing his hands together, Saito approached the sleeping Louise and said, “Itadakimasu… ” (2) saying that, he snuggled under Louise’s blanket.

“Ah, Louise, Louise your skin is really so smooth and supple. Haha… Saito you idiot…”

Saito did not know why he called himself an idiot but nonetheless he was becoming more and more aroused.

He hugged Louise without thinking twice and kissed her cheek. Louise did not look like she would wake up anytime soon; she was quite a sound sleeper.

“Louise, my dear Louise, your face; you have the cutest face in the world...” Following that, just as Saito was about to lift up Louise’s nightgown, she suddenly awoke. Saito was initially shocked, but he recovered quickly and hugged Louise tightly.

“What ... What are you doing?!”

Louise immediately realized what was going on and struggled to break free from Saito’s arms.

“Can’t you just stay still?”

“Why...why... are you hugging me?

“What are you saying? I thought that you liked me!?” Saito stared at Louise in frustration; Louise felt the anger and stopped struggling.

“What?”

Saito placed his hands on Louise’s shoulder and asked, “Aren’t you in love with me?”

“What...what... nonsense are you blabbering?”

“It’s all right Louise, I understand how you feel. I’m the one that understands you the most. Don’t be nervous, just relax.”

Saito slowly moved his lips towards Louise’s; Louise’s face became paler and paler.

Me, in love with you??

Louise’s dream just now flashed before her eyes again. Saito was exactly the same as in her dream, speaking to her in that audacious manner. Thanks to that, the more Louise looked at Saito, the angrier she became. Both the Saito in her dream and the Saito in reality made her mad, really mad. You could say it was pure rage.

Louise was now trembling in anger, but Saito mistook it for shyness, as Louise had had no prior experience.

“Are you still nervous, this is my first time too. Relax while I take off my pants...”

Louise felt Saito holding up her waist...

As swift as a flame salamander catches its prey, Louise shot her right leg upward and struck Saito between the legs.

"Arhhh!"

Saito immediately felt his spine carry the excruciating pain from his groing all the way to his brain. Saito, not able to take the pain, began foaming at the mouth and rolled off of Louise’s bed. Louise slowly got up and grabbed the horse whip which was placed next to her bed.

Saito, seeing the whip, tried to escape, but the whip-bearing Louise already had her foot on Saito’s head.

“What did you want to do to me just now?!”

Saito, slowly recovering from his pain, managed to speak, ”Aren’t we just like lovers whispering sweet nothings to each other just now?”

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume2 Chapter1

2007-06-28T21:49:40Z

Gandalfr: A number of grammar/idiom corrections. Awkward word usage reworded.

'''Chapter one - A secret Boat'''

Louise was lying on her bed. She dreamt that she was back in her homeland, three days' ride away from the Tristain Academy, where she was born.

The young Louise in her dream was running around near the house, eventually hiding in maze-like vegetation to hide from her pursuers.

“Louise, where are you? Come out now!” shouted her mother. In her dream, Louise was being reprimanded due to her poor results in magical studies. She was constantly being compared with her sisters, whom had much better results than her.

Louise saw a pair of shoes below the bushes.

“Miss Louise is really bad at magic!”

“I totally agree. Why can’t she be like her two older sisters who are so good with magic?”

Louise, upon hearing that, felt sad and dejected as she bit her lips. The servants have started looking for her in the vegetation. Louise tried her best to escape. She retreated to the place she called the “Secret Garden” – the central lake.

The Secret Garden was the only place where Louise felt at ease. It was tranquil, with no one else around. Flowers bloomed everywhere and birds gathered on the benches near the lake. And in the middle of the lake there was a small island on which a small house made of white marble rested.

Next to the island was a small boat originally used for leisure, but now derelict and forgotten. Her older sisters had grown up, and were busy studying magic. Her father, who had retired from his military duties, now spends his time mingling with the nobles nearby. Her father's only pastime was hunting wild game. Her mother's only interested was to teach her daughters and could not care less about anything else.

Therefore, besides Louise, no one ever came to the forgotten lake anymore, much less remembered that small boat. That is why whenever Louise was reprimanded; she would come to this place.

In Louise’s dream, the younger version of her jumped on to the boat and snuggled into a blanket that was prepared earlier.

As she hid inside her blanket, a noble clad in a cloak appeared from the mist-covered island.

The noble was about sixteen years old. In Louise’s dream, she was only six years old, a ten year difference lay between them.

“Have you been crying, Louise?” His face could not be seen as it was covered by a large hat.

But Louise knew exactly who he was: it was the Viscount, the noble whom had just inherited the lands around her homeland. Louise felt warm and fuzzy inside, the Viscount was the man of her dreams. They had often frequented banquets together and, furthermore, their fathers had already made an engagement.

“Is that you, Viscount?”

Louise haphazardly covered her face; she did not want the man of her dreams to see her crying. It would be embarrassing.

“I was invited by your father today regarding the engagement.”

Hearing this, Louise was even more embarrassed to the point that she did not even dare lift her head up.

“Really?

“But that would not be possible, Viscount.”

“Louise, my small and dainty Louise, do you dislike me?” The Viscount said in jest.

Louise gently shook her head and said abashedly, ”No, it’s not that. It's just that I’m still young and unready ...”

The face hidden underneath the hat revealed a smile and extended a hand out to Louise.

“Viscount.”

“Lady, please take hold of my hand. Quickly, the banquet is about to start.”

“But…”

“Have you been scolded again? Don’t worry I’ll talk to your father.” the Viscount said.

Louise nodded, stood up and reached for the Viscount’s hand. What big hands, aren't those the hands that I have always dreamt of holding?

Just as she was about to grasp the Viscount’s hand, a sudden gust of wind blew the hat from the Viscount’s head.

“Eh?!” Louise looked at his face, perplexed. Because it was a dream, Louise had returned to her sixteen year old self.

“What ... What are you doing?”

The person underneath the hat was not the Viscount, but that of her familiar, Saito.

“Louise, come quickly.”

“It doesn’t matter whether I come or not, why are you here?”

“Don’t be so narrow minded, haven’t you fallen for me already?” replied Saito, whom was impudently dressed in the Viscount’s clothes.

One has to wonder where he got that much confidence from.

“Don’t be stupid, I was just muddle-headed that time, you better stop dreaming!”

“Stop making up excuses, my Louise.”

“Who is 'your Louise'?!”

Saito pretended not to hear her at all, and instead came closer to Louise.

“What are you trying to do, you idiot?!”

Ignoring her complaints, Saito proceeded and lifted Louise, whom was in the boat, into his arms.

“Why is it you?” Louise said in frustration while punching Saito. But Saito did not get angry at all, instead his grin became wider. This made Louise slowly turn red from embarrassment. She did not know the exact reason, but she felt good in Saito’s arms. This made Louise even more anxious.

Saito, lying in his bed, slowly opened his eyes. The twin moons in full circle shone onto the room, lighting it up brightly. Louise, sleeping in her bed, made moaned as though she was having a nightmare.

Saito prayed that she would continue to sleep. He quietly got up and slowly approached the sleeping Louise.

“Sheesh...” Saito turned around and put his index finger onto his lips.

“Don't want me to speak? Why not?”

“Sheesh...” Saito shook his head, once again drew his middle finger across his lips and stared at his partner ,Derflinger, with annoyance.

“I won’t forgive you for giving me the cold shoulder. My partner wakes up in the middle of the night without tell me the reason. This makes me angry and depressed!”

After saying this, Derflinger moved and shook his body, like he was really angry. What a difficult sword.

Awakened by the rattling of the sword, Louise turned around and opened her eyes.

Saito’s heart skipped a beat.

Sitting up, Louise started to scold Saito.

“Don’t be so full of yourself! You better do some cleaning up, don't you see the dust gathered everywhere? Don’t tell me that you have done it already, you slow witted fellow, and you’re such a dimwit!”

Saito’s body was frozen solid, as though the “Harden” spell had been casted on him.

But after Louise finished scolding Saito, she lay down once more and slept. Apparently, she was just talking in her sleep. Even in her sleep Louise was ordering Saito about. Saito felt simultaneously relieved and saddened.

Derflinger, who was watching Saito all this time, gave a hapless sigh.

“She’s talking in her dreams huh? But it doesn’t seem to be music to your ears, Saito.”

Saito stared angrily at Derflinger who had almost spoiled his plan and quickly walked towards him and said, “You better keep quiet, you idiot!”

“You’re really too much, I shall not forgive you! If my partner wants me to be silent, I will definitely be silent! But for suddenly waking up in the middle of the night and being so sneaky about it, you’ll definitely suffer retribution even if you tell me your reason now.”

Derflinger’s sense of curiosity is the same as his partner's. It seems he wants to know Saito’s reason for waking up in the middle of the night no matter what it takes.

Saito sighed, and then pointed to the sleeping Louise.

“What about the Noble’s daughter?”

“What do you think partner?”

Saito used his hands and made a gesture resembling a heart.

“What’s that mean?”

“It represents love.”

“That girl likes you, partner?”

“Yes.”

“How do you know?”

Saito stood up, and danced while not making any noise.

“Ah ... you are referring to the ball?”

“You saw Louise’s expression while we were dancing right?”

“Yeah, I saw it.”

“Her face was so red ...” Saito said while in a daze.

“Yeah, it was very red.”

“She seemed to want to hold my hand and not let them go.”

“Are you sure!?”

“Derf, you’re just a piece of metal, so you’ll never understand a girl’s heart. If a girl looks at a male like that, it means she’s indirectly telling him that she likes him.” Saito said, while knocking on the sword.

“True, I’m but a sword and I don’t understand interpersonal relationships at all. But since you say so partner, it must probably be true.”

Saito nodded happily and said, “You’re really sensible, Derflinger!”

“Then, my good partner, since you’re sure that she likes you, are you going to make her your girlfriend?”

“Yes! I’m sure that she likes me and I’d like her to be my girlfriend!”

“That’s impossible. I’ve been around for a long time and this is the first time I’ve heard of a familiar having an affair with its master. You’re incredible!”

“Ah ... that feels good. Come, praise me again.”

“My partner, you’re fantastic!”

Saito stood up and buoyantly asked, “Derf, who's the whose handsome man in the world?”

“Of course it’s you, partner.”

“Who is the greatest person in this world without magic?”

“Of course it’s you, partner.”

The praises went straight to Saito's head. He felt as if the whole world was cheering for him. One has to wonder if he has a problem with his IQ.
“Louise is really fortunate that I have taken a liking to her. The great and handsome me.”

“If that haughty girl really likes you, then why did she have to scold you even in her dreams?”

Derflinger wanted to continue voicing his opinions, but was stopped by Saito. “Louise is in reality extremely stubborn. She would not bare her heart that easily.”

“Is that so?”

“If I went over and asked her, she would definitely reply: 'What are you saying? You stupid familiar!' “

“Like you said, do you really know her inside out, partner?”

“Of course! Although she’s always denying it, in reality she desperately wants me to ‘conquer’ her. She’s already deeply in love with me, but Louise is a very headstrong girl, she won’t tell me that she likes me directly due to her pride.”

“Partner, you must be a genius to have deduced this.”

“So now, I’m to represent planet Earth and make this Bishōjo (1) from Halkeginia mine. You understand don’t you, Derf? So could you do me a favor and keep your mouth shut?”

Derflinger shook his body, signifying agreement.

“If that’s the case, I will remain silent then.”

Saito thanked Derflinger and once again approached Louise.

Louise was still in deep sleep. No matter from what angle you look at the sleeping Louise, she still looks as beautiful as ever. Saito took a deep breath; the room was filled with a nice fragrance.

Saito, trembling slowly, lifted Louise’s blanket.

Moonlight shone onto Louise who was wearing a nightgown. Even though Louise was wearing her nightie, one could still feel her smooth and supple skin through it. Although just slightly, her breasts had developed. Also, Louise did not like to wear undergarments when sleeping. Saito knew this extremely well - he was the one who prepared her undergarments every morning.

Saito was so touched that tears nearly came out of his eyes. From now onwards the petite and cute girl will finally be mine, he thought to himself. He has been waiting for this moment for a week, ever since the ball.

Rubbing his hands together, Saito approached the sleeping Louise and said, “Itadakimasu… ” (2) saying that, he snuggled under Louise’s blanket.

“Ah, Louise, Louise your skin is really so smooth and supple. Haha… Saito you idiot…”

Saito did not know why he called himself an idiot but nonetheless he was becoming more and more aroused.

He hugged Louise without thinking twice and kissed her cheek. Louise did not look like she would wake up anytime soon; she was quite a sound sleeper.

“Louise, my dear Louise, your face; you have the cutest face in the world...” Following that, just as Saito was about to lift up Louise’s nightgown, she suddenly awoke. Saito was initially shocked, but he recovered quickly and hugged Louise tightly.

“What ... What are you doing?!”

Louise immediately realized what was going on and struggled to break free from Saito’s arms.

“Can’t you just stay still?”

“Why...why... are you hugging me?

“What are you saying? I thought that you liked me!?” Saito stared at Louise in frustration; Louise felt the anger and stopped struggling.

“What?”

Saito placed his hands on Louise’s shoulder and asked, “Aren’t you in love with me?”

“What...what... nonsense are you blabbering?”

“It’s all right Louise, I understand how you feel. I’m the one that understands you the most. Don’t be nervous, just relax.”

Saito slowly moved his lips towards Louise’s; Louise’s face became paler and paler.

Me, in love with you??

Louise’s dream just now flashed before her eyes again. Saito was exactly the same as in her dream, speaking to her in that audacious manner. Thanks to that, the more Louise looked at Saito, the angrier she became. Both the Saito in her dream and the Saito in reality made her mad, really mad. You could say it was pure rage.

Louise was now trembling in anger, but Saito mistook it for shyness, as Louise had had no prior experience.

“Are you still nervous, this is my first time too. Relax while I take off my pants...”

Louise felt Saito holding up her waist...

As swift as a flame salamander catches its prey, Louise shot her right leg upward and struck Saito between the legs.

"Arhhh!"

Saito immediately felt his spine carry the excruciating pain from his groing all the way to his brain. Saito, not able to take the pain, began foaming at the mouth and rolled off of Louise’s bed. Louise slowly got up and grabbed the horse whip which was placed next to her bed.

Saito, seeing the whip, tried to escape, but the whip-bearing Louise already had her foot on Saito’s head.

“What did you want to do to me just now?!”

Saito, slowly recovering from his pain, managed to speak, ”Aren’t we just like lovers whispering sweet nothings to each other just now?”

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1 Story2 Chapter4

2007-06-19T04:41:33Z

Gandalfr:

==[[zeroNT:Chapter07ClaiesOriginal|Raw English translation available here]]==

==Chapter 7 – Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt==

In Tristainia, there is a mage thief by the name of "The Crumbling Dirt," who has every noble in the country in fear. Her full name is Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt.

When Fouquet heard that a noble in the North had a jeweled crown, she went all the way there to steal it. When she heard of a noble in the South who had a staff bestowed by the king as a family treasure, she broke through walls to steal it. In the East, none of the best pearl rings by the artisans of the White Islands remained in any mansion. Fouquet also eagerly took possession of a priceless bottle of well-aged wine from a winery in the West. Fouquet is everywhere.

Her tactics range from stealthy infiltration to outright breaking in. She has attacked the national bank in broad daylight, and silently frequented houses in the depth of night. In any case, her tactics simply leave the royal mage guards in the dust.

Fouquet is identified only by her use of alchemy to enter targeted rooms, turning doors and walls to dirt and sand, and walking through the gaping holes. The nobles were not stupid, of course. They have tried to magically “solidify” everything around their treasure in an attempt to stop her alchemy, but her magic is simply too strong, nullifying everything, fortified or not, into dirt.

If Fouquet decides on breaking her way in, she uses a 30m tall dirt golem. Tossing mage guards and shattering castle walls, it lets her boldly take her prizes in broad daylight.

No one has ever seen Fouquet’s appearance up close. Nobody even knows whether she is a man or a woman. All they know is that she is an earth mage of at least Triangle class, that she leaves insulting notes, such as “I got your treasure. –-Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt” at every robbery scene, and that she prefers treasures and artifacts of great magical power.

Two huge moons shine down on the walls outside the fifth floor of the Academy of Magic, which encases a treasure room. The light stretched out a shadow, standing straight against the walls. Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt.

Her green, long hair moved with the wind, and she briskly stood, openly showing the figure that strikes fear in all the nobles of the country.

Fouquet felt the wall’s power under her feet and could not help but admire it. ''The main tower of the Academy is as strong as it looks…is a physical attack really its only weakness? I can’t break through something this thick without attracting attention.'' It’s not hard for an expert in earth magic like Fouquet to check a wall’s thickness with her feet, but breaking a wall is completely different. ''It looks like they used only hardening spells on it, but I can’t even break this with a golem. It’s got a very strong hardening spell…my alchemy won't do much.''

“Damn it…and I already got this far.” Fouquet bit her teeth in frustration. “I’m not leaving the Staff of Destruction, no matter what.” She crossed her arms and went into deep concentration.

Meanwhile, as Fouquet thought in annoyance about the wall, Louise’s room was in chaos. Louise and Kirche stared in anger at each other, while Saito, on his straw bed, excitedly studied the sword Kirche had just presented to him. Tabitha nonchalantly read on Louise’s bed.

Louise had her arms on her waist. “What is the meaning of this, Zerbst?” She glared at her rival.

Kirche watched Saito’s admiration, “I told you, I got what Saito wanted, so I came here to give it to him.”

“Ah, that’s a shame. I already got my familiar a weapon. Right, Saito?”

On the contrary, Saito couldn’t let go of Kirche’s gift. He unsheathed the sword and stared at it. When he held a sword, the inscriptions in his left hand glowed, while his body became light as a feather. He wanted to swing it around, but he was indoors. He still couldn’t figure out what the deal about his left hand was. All he knew is that it glowed if he held a sword.

But all he cared about at this moment was this beautifully decorated blade.

“This is so awesome…I still like this one more…and it shines!”

Louise kicked him into the air.

“What are you doing?!” Saito yelled.

“Give this back. Don’t you already have that talking sword?”

“Uh…that’s true…it’s interesting that a sword can speak, but still…” ''It’s so rusty and old and so broken. If a swordsman uses anything, it’s got to be shiny and cool, right? Besides, Kirche just gave me this for free…''

“Jealous words are quite unmannerly, Valliere!” Kirche trumpeted triumphantly.

“Jealous? Who’s jealous?”

“Aren't you? I, Kirche, easily got Saito’s most desired sword as a gift. You can’t say you’re not jealous, can you?”

“Jealous, my butt! That aside, I will not accept even a tiny bit of generosity from a Zerbst! That’s all there is!”

Kirche looked at Saito, who stared reluctantly at the decorated sword in Louise’s hands.

“You see that? Saito loves this sword, got it? This sword is created by Germania’s very own alchemist Lord Shupei!” Kirche threw a seductive glare to Saito. “You listen here…all that is good under the sun, let it be swords or women, can only come from Germania! Tristanian women, like Louise, are all extremely jealous, impatient, miserly, and snobbish, and nothing can change them!”

Louise glared at Kirche.

“What? I’m just telling the truth.”

“Oh…how…amusing. Women like you are all romantic-minded idiots! Did you hook up with too many guys back in Germania, making nobody trust you, and ending up dropping out and running all the way over here to Tristania?” Louise said all that to Kirche with a cold, uncompromising laugh, interspersed with angry shivers.

“You have guts, Valliere…” Kirche’s face darkened.

Louise only victoriously added, “What? I’m just telling the truth.”

They simultaneously brandished their wands.

Tabitha flicked her staff even faster than the two, blowing their wands away in a gust.

“Indoors.” she simply announced. ''Probably meaning it’s dangerous to fight in here.''

“And who is this? She’s been sitting on my bed since…” Louise angrily muttered.

“She’s my friend.” Kirche answered.

“And why is your friend in my room?”

Kirche stared. “Is that a problem?”

“Hmmph.”

Saito tried to talk with Tabitha, who did not reply, only quietly reading her book, as if she really dislikes conversation.

Meanwhile, Louise and Kirche still glared at each other.

Kirche looked away, “Well…lets have Saito decide.”

“Me? Decide?” Saito immediately felt distressed for being singled out.

“Right. This is about your choice of swords.” Louise also looked at him.

Now Saito felt worse. He liked Kirche’s shiny blade the most, hands down. ''But Louise will never let me pick that. She might not let me have dinner for a week, although I guess I can get that from Siesta, but still…''

He looked at Louise, who glared at him. ''Louise may be a selfish, self-centered, ungrateful girl, but she did take care of me when I was out for days…and I like her looks more…''

''Then again…Kirche bought me this really expensive sword. To top that, a beautiful one like her actually confessed to me. Before this, there is simply no way for me to land someone that good-looking…''

''Okay, that just made this impossibly hard. Now it just feels like I’m picking between the two of them and not the sword.''

“Well? Which is it?” Kirche and Louise both stared at him.

“Uh, well…can’t I have both?” Saito tilted his head and tried to look cute.

It didn’t work. He was sent to the air by both kicks, and collapsed in his straw bed.

“Hey.” Kirche turned to Louise.

“What?”

“Guess it’s time to get this over with.”

“Hmm…you’re right.”

“I really hate you, you know?”

“Same to you.”

“We think quite alike.” Kirche smiled and raised a brow.

Louise, too, defiantly stuck her chin up.

They shouted in unison: “Let’s duel!”

“Geez…you don’t have to…” Saito was shocked. The two glared at each other as if they did not hear him.

“But of course, we have to do this with magic!” Kirche triumphantly declared.

Louise bit her lip, and nodded. “Fine. Location?”

“Really? You sure, Louise the Zero? Are you really sure you want to fight me in a magical duel?” Kirche goaded.

Louise lowered her head. ''Am I sure? Of course…not.'' But it’s a challenge from a Zerbst, so she must take it. “Of course! I will not lose to you!”

Meanwhile, standing on the walls of the central academy tower, Fouquet felt footsteps. She jumped off towards the ground, and just as she reached it, she whispered “Spell of Levitation”, absorbing her momentum, and landed like a feather. She then disappeared into the courtyard bushes.

Entering the courtyard were Louise, Kirche, Tabitha, and Saito.

“Alright, lets begin.” Kirche announced.

“Are you guys really going to duel?” Saito anxiously asked.

“Yes, we are.” Louise confidently answered.

“Isn’t it a bit…dangerous? Lets just stop here and let it go, shall we?”

“That’s true, so whoever gets injured is the idiot,” said Kirche.

“Uh-huh.” Louise nodded.

Tabitha approached Kirche, and whispered something in her ear. Then she pointed at Saito.

“Hmm…now that’s a good idea!” Kirche grinned.

Then, Kirche whispered something to Louise.

“Ah…not bad.” Louise nodded.

And they all looked at Saito. He suddenly had a bad feeling about it.

---

“Hey…are you guys serious?” Saito begged, but nobody cared.

He was hung by rope midair from the main tower. ''Yep…I should have just picked a girl and be done with it.'' On the ground which looked so far, far away he can see the silhouettes of Kirche and Louise. Despite it being the middle of the night, the two moons made for clear vision. He can even see Tabitha on her wind dragon. It held two swords in its mouth.

The two moons warmly shone on Saito.

Kirche and Louise looked up on him, dangling and flopping around in midair.

Kirche rolled up her fists. “Here’s how we do it…first to cut off the rope and let Saito down wins, and the winner’s sword goes to Saito. Sounds good?”

“Got it.” Louise nodded, her face blank.

“No limits on type of spells used. You can go first…my treat.”

“Alright.”

“Okay…good luck.”

Louise brandished her wand. In the air, Tabitha began to shake the rope, wobbling Saito left and right. Spells like “fireball” have high accuracy rates, and as long as the target doesn’t move it can hit it. However, Louise had more than that to worry about – she had to make the spell work in the first place.

Louise thought hard. ''What would work? Wind? Fire? Water and earth are both out…they don’t have many spells that can cut ropes. Fire spells work the best here…''and here Louise remembered that that is exactly what Kirche is good at.

''Kirche’s fireballs will cut that rope easily. I can’t fail this one.''

She picked fireballs anyway. Aiming a small one at the target, she recited the short spell. If she fails, Saito gets Kirche’s sword, and to someone esteemed like Louise, this is completely unacceptable. She finished reciting, and with her utmost concentration, flicked her wand. If it works, a fireball should come out of the tip.

But nothing came out of the wand. The next moment, the wall behind Saito exploded. The shockwave shook Saito even harder. “What the hell?! Are you trying to kill me?!” Saito’s angry yell came to them.

The rope remained intact. If she thought she can use the shockwave to break the rope, she wasn’t thinking. A large crack appeared on the wall.

Kirche collapsed in laughter. “ZERO! ZERO LOUISE! You broke the wall instead of the rope! Now that’s ''talent''!”

Louise looked down.

“Man, I’ve got to ask you…what the heck did you do to make it blow up like that?! Oh god…my sides hurt…”

Louise frustratingly held her fists and kneeled to the ground.

“Next is my turn.” Kirche aimed at the rope like a hunter would his prey. Tabitha was shaking the rope, so it was tough aiming. Despite that, Kirche kept a brisk, easy smile. Chanting a short spell, Kirche waved her wand out of habit. Fire spells are her specialty.

From her wand appeared a melon-sized fireball, flying towards Saito and the rope. It hit the rope, burning it loose in an instant. Saito started to fall to the ground, and Tabitha waved her staff from the rooftop, casting a Spell of Levitation on him, causing him to slowly land to the ground.

Kirche announced in earnest, “I win, Valliere!”

Louise sat down in despair, her hands pulling on the grass.

Meanwhile, Fouquet watched them from the bushes. She saw the crack on the walls from Louise’s blast. ''What kind of magic is that? She asked for a fireball spell, but nothing came out of her wand, and the wall blew up. I’ve never heard of a spell that can make things explode like this.'' She shook her head. ''More importantly, I can’t let go of this chance.'' She started chanting a long spell, waving her wand at the ground when she finished. a mild smile forming on her face. Following her voice, a bulge formed on the ground. Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt is showing her talent.

“What a shame, Valliere!” Kirche laughed.

Her battle lost, Louise reluctantly and gloomily slacked her shoulders. Saito watched her, a complicated emotion on his face. “…why don’t you uh…untie me first?” He managed a low tone. He couldn’t move with the rope wrapped around him in layers.

Kirche smiled, “Oh, why of course, I’ll be glad to!”

Right then, Kirche felt something behind her. She turned around. She couldn’t believe her eyes. “What…what the heck is this?!” Her jaw dropped. What she saw was a huge earth golem moving towards them.

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!” Kirche ran away screaming.

Saito yelled behind her, “Hey! Hey! Don’t go! Don’t leave me here!” He was in a panic. After all, he has never seen such an enormous golem, and it’s heading towards him. “Wh…what the hell is this?! It’s huge!” Saito wanted to run, but the ropes had him tight on the ground.

Louise recovered her senses and ran towards him.

“You…why are you tied up like this?!”

“Isn’t that your idea?!”

Above them, the golem raised its foot.

Saito lost hope. “Louise, get out of there!” He yelled.

“Dammit…this rope…” Louise tried in vain to untie the knots.

The golem’s foot descended. Saito closed his eyes.

In that instant, Tabitha’s wind dragon slid from the skies, grabbing the two with its talons, and pulled them out with the foot only inches from them. The next moment, the foot crushed everything under it.

Hanging under the wind dragon, Saito and Louise watched the golem. Saito shakily asked, “Wh-wh-what…the hell is that?”

”I’m not sure…but it’s one gigantic earth golem! Somebody must have summoned that!”

”Something that big?!”

”…whoever that summoned this must be a mage with at least Triangle level.”

Saito bit his lip, and thought of Louise, who tried to untie him despite her danger. “That aside…why didn’t you run?”

“No respectable master will desert his familiar like that.” She answered dryly.

Saito watched her quietly. For some reason, he found her quite attractive…just now.

Fouquet, standing on the golem’s shoulder, smiled. She paid no attention to the wind dragon or Kirche escaping. A dark cape covered her from head to toe. They could not make out her face. She transformed the fist to a metallic composition, and ordered the golem to punch the wall. A dull thump sounded as the metallic fist hit in the wall, collapsing it. Under her dark cape, Fouquet smiled even more.

The golem transported her in with its hand, and she entered through the hole and into the treasure vault. It stored valuables of every kind, but she had only one target.

The Staff of Destruction.

A row of staffs of many sorts hung on the wall, but one came to her as completely unlike a staff. It was a meter long, and made with a sort of metal that she has never seen before. Fouquet looked at the metal plate right under it, reading “Staff of Destruction, do not remove.” Her smile grew to a grin.

She picked up the Staff of Destruction, and was shocked by its lightness. ''Just what is this thing made of?'' She had no time to ponder. She ran back to the golem’s shoulder.

Just before she left, she burned a message on the wall:
“I got your Staff of Destruction. –Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt.”

Sitting on the shoulder with its caped mistress, the golem leaped over the Academy walls, landing with a huge thud, and moved towards the grasslands and beyond.

Midair above the golem, the wind dragon circled around. Tabitha, sitting on the wind dragon, waved her staff for a Spell of Levitation, moving Saito and Louise onto the dragon’s back. She waved again. The air around Saito shook, and the shockwave cut the rope to pieces.

“Thank you,” he said to Tabitha in gratitude.

Her face remained blank, only nodding in acceptance.

Saito watched the gigantic earth golem, and asked Louise, “That mage…broke the wall. But what for?”

“The treasure vault.” Tabitha answered.

“She was holding something when she came out of that hole.”

“It’s a thief. But…that was quite bold.”

They watched as the giant golem suddenly crumbles mid-run into a large mound of dirt.

They descended to the ground.

There was nothing else besides the mountain of dirt brightly illuminated by the moons. The mage commanding it disappeared into the night, just like that.

Zero no Tsukaima:Volume1 Story2 Chapter4

2007-06-17T02:44:32Z

Gandalfr:

==[[zeroNT:Chapter07ClaiesOriginal|Raw English translation available here]]==

==Chapter 7 – Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt==

In Tristainia, there is a mage thief with the name "The Crumbling Dirt," who has every noble in the country in fear. Her full name is Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt.

When Fouquet heard that a noble in the North had a jeweled crown, she went all the way there to steal it. When she heard of a noble in the South who had a staff bestowed by the king as a family treasure, she broke walls to steal it. In the East, none remained of the best pearl rings by the artisans of the White Islands, stored in a mansion. She also eagerly took in a priceless bottle of well-aged wine from a winery in the West. Fouquet is everywhere.

Her tactics range from stealthy infiltration to outright breaking in. She has attacked the national bank in broad daylight, and silently intruded houses in the deep of the night. Either way, her tactics simply leave the royal mage guards in the dust.

The one thing that identifies her is her use of alchemy to enter her targeted rooms, turning doors and walls to dirt and sand, and walking in the gaping hole. The nobles were not stupid, of course. They have tried to magically “solidify” everything around their treasure in an attempt to stop her alchemy, but her magic is simply too strong, nullifying everything, fortified or not, into dirt.

If Fouquet decides on breaking her way in, she uses a gigantic golem made of dirt, up to 30 meters tall. Scattering mage guards and breaking even castle walls, it lets her boldly take whatever she wants in broad daylight.

Nobody has ever seen Fouquet’s appearance up close. Nobody even knows whether she is a man or a woman. All they know is that she is an earth mage of at least Triangle class, that she leaves an insulting note like “I got your treasure. –-Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt” in every robbery scene, and that she prefers treasures and artifacts of great magical power.

Two huge moons shine down on the walls outside the fifth floor of the Academy of Magic, which encases a treasure room. The light stretched out a shadow, standing straight against the walls. Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt.

Her green, long hair moved with the wind, and she briskly stood, openly showing the figure that brings fear to all nobles in the country.

Fouquet felt the wall’s power under with her feet, and could not help but admire it. ''The main tower of the Academy is as strong as it looks…is a physical attack its only weakness? I can’t break through something this thick without attracting attention.'' It’s not hard for an expert in earth magic like Fouquet to check a wall’s thickness with her feet, but breaking a wall is completely different. ''It looks like they only used hardening spells on it, but I can’t even break this with a golem. It’s got a very strong hardening spell though…my alchemy’s not doing much.''

“Damn it…and I already got this far.” Fouquet bit her teeth in frustration. “I’m not letting go of the Staff of Destruction, no matter what.” She crossed her arms and went in deep thought.

Meanwhile, as Fouquet thought in annoyance about the wall, Louise’s room was in chaos. Louise and Kirche stared in anger at each other, while Saito excitedly studied the sword Kirche just gave him on his straw bed. Tabitha nonchalantly read on Louise’s bed.

Louise had her arms on her waist. “What is the meaning of this, Zerbst?” She stared at her rival.

Kirche watched Saito’s admiration, “I told you, I got what Saito wanted, so I came here to give it to him.”

“Ah, that’s a shame. I already got my familiar a weapon. Right, Saito?”

On the contrary. Saito couldn’t let go of Kirche’s gift. He unsheathed the sword, and stared at it. When he held a sword, the inscriptions in his left hand glowed, while his body became light as a feather. He wanted to swing it around, but he was indoors. He still couldn’t figure out what the whole deal about his left hand was about. All he knows is that it glows if he holds a sword.

But all he cared at this moment was this beautifully decorated blade.

“This is so awesome…I still like this one more…and it shines!”

Louise kicked him into the air.

“What are you doing?!” Saito yelled.

“Give this back. Don’t you already have that talking sword?”

“Uh…that’s true…it’s interesting that a sword can speak, but still…” ''It’s so rusty and old and so broken. If a swordsman uses anything, it’s got to be shiny and cool, right? Besides, Kirche just gave me this for free…''

“Jealous words are quite unmannerly, Valliere!” Kirche trumpeted triumphantly.

“Jealous? Who’s jealous?”

“Isn’t it? I, Kirche, easily got Saito’s most desired sword as a gift. You can’t say you’re not jealous, can you?”

“Jealous, my butt! That aside, I will not accept even a tiny bit of generosity from a Zerbst! That’s all there is!”

Kirche looked at Saito, who stared reluctantly at the decorated sword in Louise’s hands.

“You see that? Saito loves this sword, got it? This sword is created by Germania’s very own alchemist Lord Shupei!” Kirche threw a seductive glare to Saito. “You listen here…all that is good under the sun, let it be swords or women, can only come from Germania! Tristanian women, like Louise, are all extremely jealous, impatient, miserly, and snobbish, and nothing can change them!”

Louise glared at Kirche.

“What? I’m just telling the truth.”

“Oh…how…amusing. Women like you are all romantic-minded idiots! Did you hook up with too many guys back in Germania, making nobody trust you, and ending up dropping out and running all the way over here to Tristania?” Louise said all that to Kirche with a cold, uncompromising laugh, interspersed with angry shivers.

“You have guts, Valliere…” Kirche’s face darkened.

Louise only victoriously added, “What? I’m just telling the truth.”

They simultaneously brandished their wands.

Tabitha flicked her staff even faster than the two, blowing their wands away in a gust.

“Indoors.” she simply announced. ''Probably meaning it’s dangerous to fight in here.''

“And who is this? She’s been sitting on my bed since…” Louise angrily muttered.

“She’s my friend.” Kirche answered.

“And why is your friend in my room?”

Kirche stared. “Is that a problem?”

“Hmmph.”

Saito tried to talk with Tabitha, who did not reply, only quietly reading her book, as if she really dislikes conversation.

Meanwhile, Louise and Kirche still glared at each other.

Kirche looked away, “Well…lets have Saito decide.”

“Me? Decide?” Saito immediately felt distressed for being singled out.

“Right. This is about your choice of swords.” Louise also looked at him.

Now Saito felt worse. He liked Kirche’s shiny blade the most, hands down. ''But Louise will never let me pick that. She might not let me have dinner for a week, although I guess I can get that from Siesta, but still…''

He looked at Louise, who glared at him. ''Louise may be a selfish, self-centered, ungrateful girl, but she did take care of me when I was out for days…and I like her looks more…''

''Then again…Kirche bought me this really expensive sword. To top that, a beautiful one like her actually confessed to me. Before this, there is simply no way for me to land someone that good-looking…''

''Okay, that just made this impossibly hard. Now it just feels like I’m picking between the two of them and not the sword.''

“Well? Which is it?” Kirche and Louise both stared at him.

“Uh, well…can’t I have both?” Saito tilted his head and tried to look cute.

It didn’t work. He was sent to the air by both kicks, and collapsed in his straw bed.

“Hey.” Kirche turned to Louise.

“What?”

“Guess it’s time to get this over with.”

“Hmm…you’re right.”

“I really hate you, you know?”

“Same to you.”

“We think quite alike.” Kirche smiled and raised a brow.

Louise, too, defiantly stuck her chin up.

They shouted in unison: “Let’s duel!”

“Geez…you don’t have to…” Saito was shocked. The two glared at each other as if they did not hear him.

“But of course, we have to do this with magic!” Kirche triumphantly declared.

Louise bit her lip, and nodded. “Fine. Location?”

“Really? You sure, Louise the Zero? Are you really sure you want to fight me in a magical duel?” Kirche goaded.

Louise lowered her head. ''Am I sure? Of course…not.'' But it’s a challenge from a Zerbst, so she must take it. “Of course! I will not lose to you!”

Meanwhile, standing on the walls of the central academy tower, Fouquet felt footsteps. She jumped off towards the ground, and just as she reached it, she whispered “Spell of Levitation”, absorbing her momentum, and landed like a feather. She then disappeared into the courtyard bushes.

Entering the courtyard were Louise, Kirche, Tabitha, and Saito.

“Alright, lets begin.” Kirche announced.

“Are you guys really going to duel?” Saito anxiously asked.

“Yes, we are.” Louise confidently answered.

“Isn’t it a bit…dangerous? Lets just stop here and let it go, shall we?”

“That’s true, so whoever gets injured is the idiot,” said Kirche.

“Uh-huh.” Louise nodded.

Tabitha approached Kirche, and whispered something in her ear. Then she pointed at Saito.

“Hmm…now that’s a good idea!” Kirche grinned.

Then, Kirche whispered something to Louise.

“Ah…not bad.” Louise nodded.

And they all looked at Saito. He suddenly had a bad feeling about it.

---

“Hey…are you guys serious?” Saito begged, but nobody cared.

He was hung by rope midair from the main tower. ''Yep…I should have just picked a girl and be done with it.'' On the ground which looked so far, far away he can see the silhouettes of Kirche and Louise. Despite it being the middle of the night, the two moons made for clear vision. He can even see Tabitha on her wind dragon. It held two swords in its mouth.

The two moons warmly shone on Saito.

Kirche and Louise looked up on him, dangling and flopping around in midair.

Kirche rolled up her fists. “Here’s how we do it…first to cut off the rope and let Saito down wins, and the winner’s sword goes to Saito. Sounds good?”

“Got it.” Louise nodded, her face blank.

“No limits on type of spells used. You can go first…my treat.”

“Alright.”

“Okay…good luck.”

Louise brandished her wand. In the air, Tabitha began to shake the rope, wobbling Saito left and right. Spells like “fireball” have high accuracy rates, and as long as the target doesn’t move it can hit it. However, Louise had more than that to worry about – she had to make the spell work in the first place.

Louise thought hard. ''What would work? Wind? Fire? Water and earth are both out…they don’t have many spells that can cut ropes. Fire spells work the best here…''and here Louise remembered that that is exactly what Kirche is good at.

''Kirche’s fireballs will cut that rope easily. I can’t fail this one.''

She picked fireballs anyway. Aiming a small one at the target, she recited the short spell. If she fails, Saito gets Kirche’s sword, and to someone esteemed like Louise, this is completely unacceptable. She finished reciting, and with her utmost concentration, flicked her wand. If it works, a fireball should come out of the tip.

But nothing came out of the wand. The next moment, the wall behind Saito exploded. The shockwave shook Saito even harder. “What the hell?! Are you trying to kill me?!” Saito’s angry yell came to them.

The rope remained intact. If she thought she can use the shockwave to break the rope, she wasn’t thinking. A large crack appeared on the wall.

Kirche collapsed in laughter. “ZERO! ZERO LOUISE! You broke the wall instead of the rope! Now that’s ''talent''!”

Louise looked down.

“Man, I’ve got to ask you…what the heck did you do to make it blow up like that?! Oh god…my sides hurt…”

Louise frustratingly held her fists and kneeled to the ground.

“Next is my turn.” Kirche aimed at the rope like a hunter would his prey. Tabitha was shaking the rope, so it was tough aiming. Despite that, Kirche kept a brisk, easy smile. Chanting a short spell, Kirche waved her wand out of habit. Fire spells are her specialty.

From her wand appeared a melon-sized fireball, flying towards Saito and the rope. It hit the rope, burning it loose in an instant. Saito started to fall to the ground, and Tabitha waved her staff from the rooftop, casting a Spell of Levitation on him, causing him to slowly land to the ground.

Kirche announced in earnest, “I win, Valliere!”

Louise sat down in despair, her hands pulling on the grass.

Meanwhile, Fouquet watched them from the bushes. She saw the crack on the walls from Louise’s blast. ''What kind of magic is that? She asked for a fireball spell, but nothing came out of her wand, and the wall blew up. I’ve never heard of a spell that can make things explode like this.'' She shook her head. ''More importantly, I can’t let go of this chance.'' She started chanting a long spell, waving her wand at the ground when she finished. a mild smile forming on her face. Following her voice, a bulge formed on the ground. Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt is showing her talent.

“What a shame, Valliere!” Kirche laughed.

Her battle lost, Louise reluctantly and gloomily slacked her shoulders. Saito watched her, a complicated emotion on his face. “…why don’t you uh…untie me first?” He managed a low tone. He couldn’t move with the rope wrapped around him in layers.

Kirche smiled, “Oh, why of course, I’ll be glad to!”

Right then, Kirche felt something behind her. She turned around. She couldn’t believe her eyes. “What…what the heck is this?!” Her jaw dropped. What she saw was a huge earth golem moving towards them.

“Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!” Kirche ran away screaming.

Saito yelled behind her, “Hey! Hey! Don’t go! Don’t leave me here!” He was in a panic. After all, he has never seen such an enormous golem, and it’s heading towards him. “Wh…what the hell is this?! It’s huge!” Saito wanted to run, but the ropes had him tight on the ground.

Louise recovered her senses and ran towards him.

“You…why are you tied up like this?!”

“Isn’t that your idea?!”

Above them, the golem raised its foot.

Saito lost hope. “Louise, get out of there!” He yelled.

“Dammit…this rope…” Louise tried in vain to untie the knots.

The golem’s foot descended. Saito closed his eyes.

In that instant, Tabitha’s wind dragon slid from the skies, grabbing the two with its talons, and pulled them out with the foot only inches from them. The next moment, the foot crushed everything under it.

Hanging under the wind dragon, Saito and Louise watched the golem. Saito shakily asked, “Wh-wh-what…the hell is that?”

”I’m not sure…but it’s one gigantic earth golem! Somebody must have summoned that!”

”Something that big?!”

”…whoever that summoned this must be a mage with at least Triangle level.”

Saito bit his lip, and thought of Louise, who tried to untie him despite her danger. “That aside…why didn’t you run?”

“No respectable master will desert his familiar like that.” She answered dryly.

Saito watched her quietly. For some reason, he found her quite attractive…just now.

Fouquet, standing on the golem’s shoulder, smiled. She paid no attention to the wind dragon or Kirche escaping. A dark cape covered her from head to toe. They could not make out her face. She transformed the fist to a metallic composition, and ordered the golem to punch the wall. A dull thump sounded as the metallic fist hit in the wall, collapsing it. Under her dark cape, Fouquet smiled even more.

The golem transported her in with its hand, and she entered through the hole and into the treasure vault. It stored valuables of every kind, but she had only one target.

The Staff of Destruction.

A row of staffs of many sorts hung on the wall, but one came to her as completely unlike a staff. It was a meter long, and made with a sort of metal that she has never seen before. Fouquet looked at the metal plate right under it, reading “Staff of Destruction, do not remove.” Her smile grew to a grin.

She picked up the Staff of Destruction, and was shocked by its lightness. ''Just what is this thing made of?'' She had no time to ponder. She ran back to the golem’s shoulder.

Just before she left, she burned a message on the wall:
“I got your Staff of Destruction. –Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt.”

Sitting on the shoulder with its caped mistress, the golem leaped over the Academy walls, landing with a huge thud, and moved towards the grasslands and beyond.

Midair above the golem, the wind dragon circled around. Tabitha, sitting on the wind dragon, waved her staff for a Spell of Levitation, moving Saito and Louise onto the dragon’s back. She waved again. The air around Saito shook, and the shockwave cut the rope to pieces.

“Thank you,” he said to Tabitha in gratitude.

Her face remained blank, only nodding in acceptance.

Saito watched the gigantic earth golem, and asked Louise, “That mage…broke the wall. But what for?”

“The treasure vault.” Tabitha answered.

“She was holding something when she came out of that hole.”

“It’s a thief. But…that was quite bold.”

They watched as the giant golem suddenly crumbles mid-run into a large mound of dirt.

They descended to the ground.

There was nothing else besides the mountain of dirt brightly illuminated by the moons. The mage commanding it disappeared into the night, just like that.