First Encounter
I went to the plaza to meet a new Journey member, following Lisa's advice.
She said I'd know her right away when I saw her, and she wasn't wrong.
You must be the Captain who'll be joining my Journey.
I hope you're well. I am Epindel de Orlan, heir to House Orlan.
She extended her hand palm-down, as nobles do.
Nice to meet you.
I shook her hand up and down.
...Ah.
...?
...Fufu, it's nothing. Just thinking to myself how it may take some time to get used to NOA customs.
Shall we get going, then?
This way.
It's a bit embarrassing to say out loud, but I did some homework on the Journey beforehand.
Like what?
Whatever I could find, really.
Training grounds, curriculum—anything I could get my hands on.
You're really enthusiastic.
Oh my, was I being presumptuous?
Not at all. I meant it as a compliment.
You're just as generous with praise as the rumors say.
And forgive me, but I also looked into you, Captain.
Having now met you in person, I believe my thoughts were correct.
Thoughts?
That once I met you, I would have to...
Have to?
...Run a quick evaluation.
...Evaluation?
En garde!
Without warning, Epindel drew her swords and assumed a stance.
A slender long sword paired with a swift short sword.
En... what?
It's a signal to begin combat.
To see whether you're truly qualified to guide the next heir of House Orlan.
What better way is there than to evaluate through a duel?
...I have my letter of appointment. Want me to show it?
The fact that you're calm enough to jest is a point in your favor.
Will you need time to prepare?
Looking at her, I couldn't back out now.
I drew my sword.
All right, if that's what you want!
Then here I come!
A sword went flying, spun through the air, and stuck into the ground.
It was mine.
...You're incredibly fast.
Honestly, I'm impressed.
Thank you for the praise.
Your skill is certainly worthy of the title of Journey Captain, but...
Your sword is too heavy and honest to a fault.
Like a rhinoceros trying to teach a hawk how to fight, it's disastrous for everyone involved.
House Orlan's dual sword style values speed and unpredictability above all.
Whether in learning or teaching the sword, we take great pride in it.
What's this...?
My training schedule—no, my proposal.
It's modeled directly after House Orlan's curriculum.
I'll be following it exactly. May I ask for post-approval and observation?
That might be a bit...
Oh my, if you're not convinced, I don't mind proving myself through other means.
It's not a slight against you. Just a suggestion for more efficient training.
A suggestion...? Doesn't really feel like one...
Fufu. I'll take that as agreement, then.
I'll leave the curriculum review in your capable hands, yes?
With a bright smile, Epindel headed into Candle Square.
I nursed my sore wrist and pulled my sword out of the ground.
This Journey... might turn out a little more intense than I expected.