Things Have Changed
Lately, a certain rumor had started to spread around Candle Square.
The rumor goes like...
She's a little softer than usual. To be more precise...
It is said she's at least trying to watch what she says.
That must be your guidance, Captain!
It's true. Bell had definitely changed.
Phrases like I'd rather die than live like that don't come out of her mouth anymore.
She still says things like a roadside pebble is worth more than human life...
But, from what I've heard, she's been changing the way she talks to others too. Not just me.
It was more exhausting trying to watch my mouth during training only.
If I have to change anyway, might as well do it consistently.
She's still got her usual blunt delivery.
...People don't know how to handle differences in values.
So if I want to avoid dumb misunderstandings, I can at least offer them that much courtesy.
Still talking like she's better than others, of course.
Like a subtle change from a piece of work to just a bit of a piece of work...
But for people who've known her for a long time, even that feels like a huge shift.
What brought this on?
Brought what on?!
I mean, I don't care what people think, but that doesn't mean I like being avoided like a plague.
So... I figured maybe it wouldn't hurt to slightly adjust my way of thinking.
That's a good thing.
Hmph!
Heh, is that so? Didn't feel so hard for me.
All I needed was a change in perspective.
She actually looked proud of herself.
Once I made up my mind to change...
I just started thinking of everyone I saw as already dead.
...What?
Yeah. Dead. Not a spark of life left in them...
I even made up a backstory for each.
For example, Captain, you died two months ago.
Slipped while getting out of bed, cracked your head on the corner. Instant death.
That's such a sad way to go!
But once I saw everyone that way, everything just made sense.
All the dumb things people say and do...
I was able to accept it all.
They're dead. And the dead deserve peace and understanding...
It really was a genius idea.
Can't believe I didn't think of it sooner.
Well...
...Isn't this what they call "positive growth"? Hard to say.
Bell seemed extremely satisfied with herself, her shoulders rising with pride.
And now, thanks to all that... there's something I can finally say to you, too!
Here it is!
I believe in you, Captain!
Bell declared it proudly—chest out, voice loud.
Hmm. Not entirely convinced.
...
Wh-why?!
Hey, show a little more surprise!
You only said it because you think I'm already dead...
She still can't open her heart to someone who she sees as alive.
Her method is insane, for sure. But she's starting to recognize her own shortcomings and trying to do something about them.
And her effort proves her willingness to work with others.
R-right?!
Hehe... so?
I'm getting pretty trustworthy now, aren't I?
Bell grinned proudly, her eyes sparkling, clearly waiting for a reply.
A chilly breeze swept between the two of us.
...What?
I nearly said those words.
W-wait, what?!
N-no... I wasn't even thinking of that...
I didn't mean to...
...
Hang in there. We're almost there.
Bell stayed frozen behind me, still staring into space. I gave her a nod, then headed back to my quarters.
The end of the Journey is drawing close.
And soon, the time will come to release Bell from her oath.