“Ludwig’s Recollections and His Message for You” Translation: Hm? Was I daydreaming? How pathetic, that I should lose myself in those recollections. I have neither the time nor the need to dwell on the past. But even so, I cannot say that time was spent in vain. I remember well the days I spent at the academy, to the point that I will never be able to forget them. Speaking of which, there was a man who saw something different in me. He was the only one who ever dared confront me directly: Orpherus. If I am to be grateful for the time I spent at the academy, it is possible that I should be similarly grateful to him. [laughs] That is precisely what I find so ridiculous. There is no need for gratitude between us, just as there is no need for us to stand on ceremony with one another. All we need are our ideals and the perseverance required to make them reality. There is a chance I may see my friends again someday, but come what may, I pray that I will never forget anything about them. - - Wake up. It’s time. You look like you’re still half asleep. Is my love not sufficient to wake you? [laughs] There’s no need for you to make excuses. I know how you feel about me, even if you don’t put your feelings into words. I feel the same way. It makes me happy to face each new day together with you. One does not exert “effort” for the sake of someone else. It is something one does for oneself. For your own sake. You make the decision to commit the necessary effort and then conduct yourself accordingly. However, should you understand that and yet still desire some form of support, even if no one else takes notice of you, I will look at you. Even if no one else acknowledges you, I will acknowledge your effort. Nothing else in the world can compare to that. I find it strange. I neither foresaw nor anticipated that a day would come when someone else’s happiness would touch my heart. The fact that you look happy is not disagreeable to me. But don’t get carried away. If you let down your guard, you will lose your footing. That pure smile of yours…keep it hidden unless you are with me. Are you crying? I will not be the one to wipe away your tears. You must overcome your grief on your own. There is no need to rush. However, once the time for grieving has passed, you must wipe away your tears with your own hands and then turn to face me. I am waiting to see you free of sadness once more. Are you resting? I suppose I will rest with you for a little while. [laughs] Pay it no mind. I am content simply to spend time with you. Let us rest now, and tomorrow, we will fulfill the duties we have taken upon ourselves. Goodnight. I will rest while I watch you drift off to sleep. Sweet dreams. - - - - grimmfeather