Episode Eight – The Brothers Galdin and Filda
After they obtained the required document from the library, Thomas told them they needed to go to the notary to have it certified.
Galdin: Don't tell me we're going to face another test!
Thomas: Oh, come on. That last girl clearly had a screw loose. This time, things will go smoothly.
Galdin: (whispering) In this world… I doubt it.
On their way to the notary, they came across a boy about their age bullying a little girl. He was holding a magic wand and shouting at her to dance, while she cried, "Leave me alone, Martin!"
Martin: Dance! I want to see you dance! Hahaha!
He was firing magic bolts at her feet, forcing her to jump around to avoid them—making it look like she was dancing against her will.
Galdin (angrily): You idiot! Leave the girl alone!
Martin: And what if I don't?
Galdin: Then I'll make you regret it.
Martin stepped forward defiantly, spinning his wand in his hands, then spat on his own foot.
Martin: Kiss my foot… or I'll take you down!
Fury surged through Galdin as he clenched his fist, ready to punch him. At the same time, Martin prepared to cast a spell—but Filda suddenly kicked Martin's hand, sending the wand flying. Galdin then landed a solid punch that knocked Martin to the ground.
Martin scrambled toward his wand, but Thomas hooked his staff around Martin's neck and yanked him back.
Thomas: Move your neck, and I'll break it.
Martin (choking): F–fine!
They let him go, and he collapsed, gasping for air.
Galdin: Next time, don't pretend to be a mighty wizard by picking on little girls, you pathetic coward.
The girl thanked them and ran off. They continued on their way.
Martin (gritting his teeth): Damn you… I'll get my revenge!
They reached the notary's office and waited for their turn, while Martin lurked outside, plotting. He suddenly heard a voice from a nearby window and peeked inside, seeing the notary speaking to a man.
Man: All you have to do is certify this contract.
Notary: Of course.
The notary took out some ink from a drawer and stamped his seal on the contract.
Man: Is that magical ink?
Notary: Yes, and it's the last one I have. I'll get more tomorrow. Without it, nothing can be certified.
The man left, and the secretary entered.
Secretary: There are three boys waiting for their document.
Notary: Boys? Let them wait… First, I need to answer nature's call!
He went to the bathroom, and Martin slipped in through the window, heading for the drawer—only to find it locked, with the key on the notary.
Martin: Tch! No time… I'll have to break it.
He cast a "Shatter" spell, breaking the lock, grabbed the ink, and fled just moments before the notary returned.
The three entered the office.
Thomas: We need this document certified.
Notary (shocked): What? The drawer's broken? And the ink… stolen?!
Thomas: No big deal, you have another one, right?
Notary: No. That was the only magical ink legally recognized by the Council of Mages. Without it, your document is void.
Thomas: You don't have a spare?
Notary: I'll get more tomorrow.
Thomas: Then we'll come back tomorrow.
Notary: Unfortunately… if this document isn't certified before sunset, it will vanish automatically!
Thomas: Is it expensive? Is that why it was stolen?
Notary: No, but no one else can use it but me… I'm the only one who knows its magic.
Thomas: Then we'll find the thief and bring it back before sunset!
The trio ran outside to search.
Galdin: Why not just get a new one tomorrow?
Thomas: Because this document can only be issued once every five years!
Galdin: Damn it…
Filda: The man before us had his contract certified, which means the theft happened right after. The thief is close. Let's go!
They dashed from street to street until only one hour remained before sunset.
Galdin: He's gone!
Suddenly, a mocking laugh echoed from the direction of the setting sun. Martin appeared, wearing a wicked grin.
Martin: You want the ink? Come and take it—if you can.
And thus, Episode Eight comes to a close.
What is Martin's plan? And will our heroes recover the ink before sunset?