Chapter 13: The Childhood Friend Kidnapping Case (2)
Translator: RaidenTL
Chapter 13: The Childhood Friend Kidnapping Case (2)
Amy Holloway—Ian’s childhood friend and one of the primary heroines.
She possessed a passive bloodline ability, a form of neutral magic known as [Heart Color Discernment]. This allowed Amy to see the "color" of a person’s heart, effectively perceiving their true nature.
She could tell if someone was lying, discern their personality, and even sense if they were hatching a sinister plot.
In other words, she was the single greatest contributor to the Holloway family’s rise to the rank of Count, having helped them navigate an aristocratic society rife with intrigue and deception.
Count Holloway cherished his daughter dearly, and as a result, Amy grew up living a life of luxury—a girl raised on a bed of roses.
The person she eventually met in her metaphorical flower garden was the second son of Viscount Fairytale: the protagonist, Ian Fairytale.
In her eyes, Ian was a boy with a pure heart. The two quickly became inseparable, and after years of hard work, they entered Märchen Academy as classmates.
In the early stages of the story, Amy’s role was vital.
❰Magic Knight of Märchen❱ 「Act 2, Chapter 2: The Childhood Friend Kidnapping Case」.
In the original timeline, Mateo’s gang had impeccable timing.
On the day of the planned kidnapping, Amy had just gotten into a fight with Ian. When Mateo’s men approached her and urged her to follow them, she was in a vulnerable state.
She realized they were trying to kidnap her, but she followed them anyway.
She sensed no truly "insidious" desires from them, and more importantly, she wanted Ian to value her more. She imagined her beloved arriving like a prince on a white stallion to save her, cherishing her all the more after the ordeal.
In other words, it was an act of pure, unadulterated stupidity.
Ironically, because she could see through her opponents' minds, she underestimated them and fell easily for Mateo’s tricks.
As a result, Amy was treated with unexpected brutality until Ian finally arrived. She was slapped and kicked; as she tried to resist, Mateo’s men panicked because Ian fought far better than they had anticipated.
Putting Ian in jeopardy because of her own momentary urges and foolish ideas was never what she wanted.
It was a scene that had always left a bad taste in my mouth.
In the game, once the kidnapping incident concluded, Amy cried and apologized to Ian. From that point on, she became a devoted heroine and stopped "trolling" the plot.
Regardless, kidnapping her would be easy given how psychologically vulnerable she currently was.
As long as I’m here, I won’t let Amy be treated like that.
I recalled the epilogue of 「Act 2, Chapter 2」.
Amy mentioned that before Mateo’s gang found her, she had stormed off after her fight with Ian. Where exactly did she go...?
Oh, right. The Hydrangea Garden.
It was a beautifully landscaped area filled with vibrant hydrangeas. Amy would be there, sulking on a bench.
I had prepared myself for a long search, but luckily, I found her almost immediately, sitting on a bench in a state of visible anguish.
Let’s fix the hair first, since no one else is around.
I brushed my curly bangs down to partially obscure my face and walked toward her.
Suddenly, a wave of emotion hit me.
While playing ❰Magic Knight of Märchen❱, I had completed Amy’s route several times. I had always loved her bright, blooming smile.
I was fond of her; I had many memories of her character. Amy was one of the heroines I truly wanted to protect.
As I stopped in front of her, she looked up at me with beautiful green eyes. She was a petite woman with white, short-cropped hair and a ribbon shaped like black rabbit ears. With her large eyes and soft features, she looked remarkably like a puppy.
This was our first official meeting. As expected, her face was a mask of confusion.
[Amy Holloway]
Lv: 51
Race: Human
Elements: Fire
Danger: X
"Amy Holloway?"
"…?"
Amy was likely peering into my intentions right now using [Heart Color Discernment].
I had nothing to hide.
So, I made my offer as politely as possible.
"I’m sorry, but I’m here to kidnap you. Will you cooperate?"
*
Is he insane?
Amy was stunned by the man’s blunt declaration. She was so taken aback that she could only stare at him blankly for a long moment.
He had silver hair with a faint blue tint and blood-red eyes that were fixed on her.
She knew who he was. His name was Isaac. He was the student who had received a Grade E in mana and ranked dead last in the class assignments. A man at the very bottom of the social ladder—a commoner.
He was famous for all the wrong reasons, so it was impossible not to recognize him.
However, Amy didn’t look down on him. On the contrary, she couldn’t understand why the students at the academy were so obsessed with belittling others.
Perhaps it was because her crush, Ian, had also been judged as a Grade E and became a target of ridicule. That fact infuriated Amy, but there was nothing she could do except stay by Ian’s side.
Unlike the other students, Amy felt a strange sense of sympathy for Isaac.
But why would a man like him suddenly say something so crazy...? Did I hear him wrong?
"Kidnap?" she repeated.
"Kidnap," Isaac answered clearly, confirming her suspicion.
Amy focused on the color of Isaac’s heart through her [Heart Color Discernment]. What she saw was a bright blue hue with a slight orange tinge. It was a color completely devoid of malice or impure intentions.
Therefore, when he said "kidnapping," it didn't feel like a threat.
It made sense; who in their right mind would announce a kidnapping like this? A real kidnapper would use force from the start or try to deceive their victim.
This is the first time we’ve ever spoken... so why is he showing me so much affection?
The orange tint in his heart signified friendliness, affection, and a genuine liking for her. It was a color usually reserved for family or close friends—a sign of deep goodwill. It was the kind of color that could turn pink, representing romantic love, at any moment.
But this was the first time Amy had ever met Isaac.
That meant...
Did he fall for me at first sight?!
He must have been captivated by her beauty as he passed by.
She felt embarrassed, but she couldn't stop the corners of her mouth from twitching. She covered her cheeks and turned her head away.
What a sinful woman I am... Oh my goodness, what should I do?!
She didn't have romantic feelings for Isaac, but his apparent devotion gave her self-esteem a much-needed boost.
Amy was still upset with Ian. He had been neglecting her lately, and even the color of his heart had begun to fade... It made her feel skeptical about whether her efforts to maintain her appearance were even worth it if they couldn't win Ian’s heart.
Rationally, she knew Ian was focused on his training. But he had been far too distant...
Is it the training, or is it me?
She wanted to scream the question at him, but her pride wouldn't allow it. They weren't even in a relationship; revealing her jealousy would be a disaster.
They were just childhood friends. Just friends...
Stupid Ian. Why can't you at least try to be a little jealous?
Amy suddenly felt a surge of spite. She wanted to get back at him.
"Puhu. Kidnapping? That’s funny. You’re Isaac, right?"
Amy smiled brightly, though she kept her tone somewhat curt. "Do you want to go somewhere private to talk?"
"Well... sure?"
"I expect delicious refreshments and black tea. I’m quite picky, you know."
"I’m not sure about the tea, but I have some handmade chocolates. They're made with Grade A milk imported directly from Ailo Farm and cocoa from Doark."
"...Huh?"
Amy’s eyes sparkled with curiosity.
Before she knew it, she had jumped up and leaned in close to Isaac.
Startled, Isaac reflexively leaned back.
Ignoring his reaction, Amy asked in an excited voice, "Wait, what kind of chocolate is that...? I’ve never heard of it. Is it good?"
Her voice practically trembled.
As someone obsessed with sweets, Amy could confidently say she had tasted almost every delicacy in the world. The specific details Isaac mentioned were enough to pique her interest.
"I have one here. Try it."
Isaac pulled a small, finger-sized piece of chocolate from his pocket and handed it to her. It was neatly wrapped in paper.
Amy marveled at the elegant packaging. Her expression melted the moment the chocolate hit her tongue.
"What do you think?"
"So sweet..."
After swallowing, Amy remained lost in the lingering aftertaste for a moment. She eventually regained her composure, cleared her throat awkwardly, and nodded.
"Ahem. Yes, that was... acceptable. It was delicious. Do you have more?"
"If you follow me, I’ll give you the rest."
"Fine."
Amy hid her grin and gave Isaac a lively look.
"I’ll let you kidnap me! Where are we going?"
*
"Wow, I didn't know a place like this existed!"
I brought Amy to a small cabin deep within Josena Forest. It had originally been an abandoned warehouse, but I’d had it cleaned under the pretext of preparing for the kidnapping. One of Mateo’s subordinates was a wind-element user, so blowing away the dust had been easy.
In ❰Magic Knight of Märchen❱, there was content regarding creating and decorating your own hideout. This abandoned building was one of those unlockable locations.
I guided Amy to a table set with refreshments.
"Sit here. I’ll prepare the tea."
"..."
Amy’s attention was already fixed on the pile of chocolates on the table.
Once she was settled, I headed to the "kitchen"—a small corner separated by a partition. I placed a kettle of water on a scroll engraved with a 1-star [Fire Generation] magic circle and began to boil it.
But this situation... how should I put it?
Isn't this a bit too easy?
I thought it might work, but I didn't expect to lure a high-ranking heroine with a single piece of chocolate.
Of course, that chocolate was a specialized item. I had used the "kidnapping funds" Mateo gave me to buy them from the secret shop. In the game, those chocolates were a gift item used to boost a heroine’s favorability, and they were most effective on Amy Holloway. They were a mandatory purchase for anyone pursuing her route.
I knew she would love them. But her [Heart Color Discernment] was the real MVP here.
What is she doing?
I peeked over the partition. Amy was trying to maintain her dignity while reaching for a chocolate, her other hand physically restraining her reaching hand in a battle of wills.
*
"Isn't it just too much? We’ve been together for years, but he always brushes me off saying 'I have to train'..."
Amy and I were having a quiet tea party.
Because I had spent so much time playing the game, I realized I actually had a lot to say to her. Once we started talking, the lore came to mind and the conversation flowed naturally. The atmosphere wasn't awkward at all.
Softened by the sweets and tea, Amy began to vent her frustrations. Naturally, they were all about Ian.
"I’ve been so good to him, that ungrateful bastard..."
"You like Ian, don't you?" I asked.
"...Uh, what?!"
I had blurted out the obvious. Amy had left enough clues to make it undeniable.
As expected, she turned bright red.
"Me? Him? No! Not at all!"
"Really? From where I’m sitting, it looks like you like him a lot."
"It’s not... that’s not... true..."
Her denial was almost cute.
I had spent countless hours playing as Ian in the game. I couldn't even count how many times I had seen this side of her.
Is this what a father feels toward a daughter? Well, I wouldn't know. I’ve never been married, let alone had a kid.
"The chocolate is gone."
"Oh! Right! The chocolate... I ate it all. Sorry..."
I deliberately changed the subject, and Amy looked down, feeling guilty.
"Would you like more?"
"Oh? Well, I’m not usually the type to eat that much, but... if you’re offering, it would be rude to refuse such a sincere gesture, wouldn't it?"
What is she even saying...?
"Just wait a moment. I’ll be right back."
"Huh? Where are you going?"
I stood up and headed for the door.
"I have more stored elsewhere. I made a sort of mini-fridge using my ice element to keep them fresh, but it’s a bit of a walk from here."
"Why? Wouldn't it be easier to just put the fridge in here?"
"I’m still not great at controlling my mana. I didn't want to accidentally damage the building, so I kept it at a distance."
"Ah~"
She didn't look entirely convinced, but she didn't push it.
If she had asked why I didn't just use an ice magic scroll, I would have said I didn't have any mana gel. If she asked why I didn't have gel, I would have said I was robbed. If she asked by whom, I would have said I didn't see them because it was dark...
Fortunately, it didn't come to that. She just wanted more chocolate.
"Oh, do you want me to come with you? I’ll tag along."
"You’re a kidnap victim. You have to stay here."
"Pufu, that’s right! I’m supposed to be 'kidnapped' until this evening, right?"
Amy laughed. She clearly thought this was all a game—that she was a "guest" and the "kidnapping" was just my weird sense of humor.
I would have thought the same in her position. I had told her the kidnapping would end by evening, and I wanted her to be comfortable.
"Today was actually fun, Isaac. Let’s be friends when we get back."
Friends, huh...? I’m not sure you’ll feel that way after your crush gets thrashed by Mateo and a demon.
I smiled, said "I’ll be back," and stepped out of the hideout.
The sky was already beginning to turn the color of a sunset.
On my way back, I placed a sharpened stone at a specific marker in front of a tree in Josena Forest. It was the signal to Mateo’s gang: "I have successfully kidnapped Amy."
Following this, Ian would receive a letter informing him of the kidnapping. He would then storm the warehouse and begin his fight with Mateo’s group.
There’s still time before the demon appears.
When the demon finally manifested, the sky would turn pitch black. It was currently dormant beneath the warehouse, waiting to be awakened by the scent of Mateo’s dense mana.
I had plenty of time to observe the situation from a distance. My only job was to kill the demon and prevent the Bad Ending.
Furthermore, defeating the demon would grant me the "Abyssal Ring"—an item that allowed the wearer to read the thoughts of others. In the game, it was an invaluable tool for predicting enemy movements in battle. It would be essential for handling the variables to come.
The kidnapping is on track. Nothing seems out of the ordinary.
I walked leisurely toward the warehouse.
The only potential variable was if the demon appeared early—for instance, if Mateo used his full power before his subordinates were defeated. That would hasten the disaster, but I hoped it wouldn't happen. In the original game, Mateo only attacked Ian after all his lackeys were down.
This should be simple. No one like Kaya was around to interfere this time.
*
Two hours earlier.
Kaya Astrea was wandering the academy grounds.
Where did Isaac go?
She couldn't find him anywhere. She had spotted Mateo’s gang, but Isaac wasn't with them. Moreover, the gang was acting incredibly suspicious today.
Thanks to her recent habit of tailing Isaac, Kaya knew they were using an abandoned warehouse in Josena Forest as a base. She watched them enter the forest and head toward the warehouse, but then they stopped to inspect a specific tree.
After that, all but one of the men went inside. The remaining lackey doubled back, leaving the forest and heading toward Orphin Hall, the Magic Department building. Kaya followed him.
The man looked around nervously before slipping a letter into Ian Fairytale’s locker and sprinting away.
What is that? Surely not a love letter.
Once the coast was clear, Kaya retrieved the letter and read it.
We have Amy Holloway.
Come to the abandoned warehouse in Josena Forest.
Come alone.
"A hostage...?"
Kaya’s hands began to tremble.
They’ve gone too far!
Mateo’s gang was notorious for being bullies, and she knew they had a grudge against Ian Fairytale. But she never imagined they would actually kidnap someone.
"...Kaya Astrea?"
Ian appeared at his locker just then. He looked puzzled to see Kaya standing there.
"That’s my locker."
"Are you Ian Fairytale? Look at this."
Ian’s face went pale as he read the note.
"Amy...! Mateo, that bastard...!"
"Ian."
Kaya looked at the enraged boy and made a decision. She told him she would help.
*
The sky was now a deep, bruised purple.
After searching the forest, Ian finally arrived at the abandoned warehouse. Mateo’s gang greeted him with mocking laughter.
"Where is Amy?" Ian demanded, his voice raspy with emotion.
He held a wooden training sword in his hand, a sight that only made the gang laugh harder.
"Tell me now. This is your only warning."
"A warning?"
"...!"
Faaaa—!
A shimmering wall of light erupted behind Ian, sealing the exit. It was neutral magic cast by one of the lackeys.
「Barrier—Physical Defense Specialization (Neutral Element, ★2)」
Though it was a basic spell, it was specialized against physical impact. No matter how strong Ian was for his age, he wouldn't be able to break through it easily.
"Who do you think you’re talking to?" Mateo’s voice was heavy with contempt. "A Grade E giving me a warning? A warning?"
He smirked. "Actually, I like that backbone. It’ll make breaking you more fun."
Mateo’s men closed in, but Ian didn't flinch. If anything, he looked disappointed.
"...I told you. It was a warning."
Suddenly—
Whooooosh—!!
Kwaaaaang—!!
One of the warehouse walls imploded as a violent gale tore through the building.
「Gust (Wind Element, ★4)」
"What—?!"
"Aaaagh!"
"Gah!"
Kuuuuuu—!
「Rock Wall (Earth Element, ★4)」
Before the wind could reach him, a jagged wall of stone erupted around Mateo. His reflexes were animalistic, deploying the defense just in time.
However, his subordinates weren't so lucky. Unprepared for high-level wind magic, they were swept off their feet and slammed into the far wall, collapsing into unconsciousness.
As the storm died down—
「Wind Generation (Wind Element, ★1)」
A localized breeze continued to swirl around the warehouse at a girl's command.
Mateo dispelled his [Rock Wall], his eyes widening as he saw the intruder.
Standing by the breach in the wall was a girl with light green twintails. She held a wand embedded with a small green mana stone, her hair and skirt fluttering in the residual wind.
Wands were powerful tools, but their complexity made them nearly impossible for first-year students to master. Only a handful of elites could use them effectively.
And the girl standing there was the elite of elites.
"Did my warning sound like a joke to you?"
It was the Second Seat of the first-year Magic Department, a girl whose power dwarfed everyone in the room—Kaya Astrea.