Rehearsal
A few days after I agreed to help Frey...
The day of the festival rehearsal arrived.
I was waiting in my room when I heard a knock at the door.
Hello, Captain.
I've come to accompany you to the rehearsal.
Oh? You?
Yes, I've been selected to follow you personally during the festival.
As your secretary and bodyguard, I will be handling all your arrangements.
Normally, Grand Master Charlotte would see to duties like this as per protocol...
But she is currently overseeing the security of Monastir itself, leaving me to assume her responsibilities.
I pray you do not take offense at this.
None taken.
Haha, thank you for your understanding, Captain.
Also, I've been asked to deliver a message from the Grand Master, quote:
Though I cannot be present for this joyous occasion, may the Captain have a most wonderful time!
...end quote.
I pictured Charlotte's gloomy face.
I should treat her to some cake the next time we meet...
Haha, not the usual kind.
But as I mentioned before, your name is recognized throughout NOA.
I'm talking about massive crowds and die-hard fans.
And it is my job to spare you from such minor inconveniences.
Gladly, Captain.
Then I will take you to the church of the Monolith Order. This way, please.
...
I can't remember the last time it was just the two of us.
How have you been?
Fine. You?
Haha, all is well, thanks to your concern.
The Knights are business as usual. No monster incursions, just quiet days.
The Grand Master's biggest concern these days is how to recite the welcome speech without stumbling. Doesn't that say something?
As for Lady Frey... let's just say Lady Frey is Lady Frey.
In fact, I'm a little worried about her. She's been working late into the night, preparing for the festival.
Hmm...
...Captain? Is something wrong?
...
Haha, you caught me off guard, like usual.
But you already know everything about me.
I am the Deputy Master of the Monastir Knights, the Shield of the Order.
We both know there's more to you than that.
Curiosity kills the cat, my dear Captain.
...Ah, we've arrived. Shall we go in?
We'll have plenty of moments to enjoy little talks.
Heads up! Chandelier going up!
Please be careful not to bump into any of the relics!
Everyone's busy as bees.
And rightly so. This place will serve as the heart of the festival.
As the bell tolls, the May Bride proceeds into the great cathedral of Monastir.
Wreathed in calla lilies and basking in the crowd's blessings, she proclaims prosperity for the year to come.
And we stand on the ground that will serve as the great cathedral.
Every young girl in Monastir dreams of wearing a calla wreath.
Carmen seemed lost in thought as she spoke, her eyes staring into the distance.
An unseen, imaginary horizon, or maybe... her own past.
Me?
...
Perhaps so.
Before I joined the Knights. Before I... took up this shield.
I would've dreamed of it if life had allowed me such luxury.
...
Haha, you're too easy to read, Captain.
I told you. Curiosity kills the cat.
And I am very content with my current role.
The Shield of Monastir can do what the May Bride cannot.
For instance, as your secretary, I can... keep sensitive matters confidential.
...Sensitive matters?
Oh my, did I grab your attention?
Well then, something like this...
Carmen wrapped her arms around my neck.
Hold still.
To think a Journey Captain would let his collar get this rumpled.
After all, it would be embarrassing if people saw you with such an untidy appearance.
Oh, you were talking about my collar...
Were you hoping for something else? How cute.
Now then, that's enough mood-lightening for today.
Would you wait here for a moment? I need to bring some documents and a speech script for the festival.
Wait here like a good boy, and I'll praise you for it.
No thanks...
Haha. I'll be back.
...
When I caught myself absentmindedly touching the collar Carmen had straightened for me, I realized I was blushing.