Monastir Will Not Be Broken!
When I arrived at the training grounds, I saw Charlotte reading something.
She was so focused she didn't even notice me, but there was a bright smile on her face.
Ah, Captain!
You're here! I'm ready to begin training right away!
Oh, this?
Hehe, some of my friends from the Knights sent me a letter.
...Wait, is it okay to call them friends? I'm the Grand Master now, so... Hmm...
How about comrades, then?
I never really thought of them as subordinates. We've been together since our days as regular knights.
Ugh... It just makes me feel like I haven't fully grown into this Grand Master role yet...
You were smiling as you read them.
Hehehe... They all wrote something to cheer me on.
Although... it sounds like Lad—I mean Quartermaster Frey is causing a bit of trouble again.
But aside from that, everyone seems to be doing fine.
Honestly...!
If everything runs smoothly without me, maybe I'm not such a necessary Grand Master after all...!
But they wrote so many warm, supportive messages. All of them!
That just proves you're a great Grand Master.
I still don't think I've earned that title just yet...
But for everyone cheering me on like this!
I'll keep pushing forward. I'll train hard and come back stronger than ever!
Ha! That's the spirit.
Luckily, the monsters beyond our borders have been quiet too.
Monsters?
Yes. Monastir borders the northern region where monsters live, separated only by a mountain range.
Sometimes, they come down and attack our towns.
No one's sure why, but many think it's still because of the Void Force lingering across Lavistar.
To hold them back, we train knights, build defensive walls...
And call for help from Saviors or send word to NOA when things get bad.
It's... not easy.
Sometimes, it takes years to rebuild a village destroyed by those monsters.
The only reason I was able to join this Journey at all is because...
I believe that if I complete it and inherit the Star Savior's power, then I can truly protect my people from threats like these.
Sounds like things are pretty rough for everyone back home.
That's why people say Monastir folk are tough!!
Charlotte threw her shoulders back with pride.
The harder things get, the more we smile!
Even if we feel down, we make ourselves laugh!
...Or so we always tell each other.
I want to carry that Monastir spirit with pride!
Someone strong, proud, and dependable!
...Do you think I can pull that off?
Of course. If anyone can, it's you.
Okay!
The people of Monastir have not just survived but thrived in the harshest of environments.
Even when the world around them is unforgiving, they press on with stronger resolve. That is their virtue.
Now I understand, at least in part, why Charlotte was chosen to be the Grand Master.
I only hope she realizes it too.
Then, shall we begin training?