The Weight of the Shield
Don't worry, Captain.
I'll protect you.
I thought this was a pretty intense training, but maybe I was wrong.
Carmen blocked the final attack with ease and calmly lowered her shield.
That shield... how much does it even weigh?
The Monastir Knights' battle shields are known for being both tough and heavy.
You can try lifting it if you're curious. Haha.
And yet, you swing it like it was made of paper.
Haha. This much is nothing for me.
I'm responsible for defending the entire Knights, after all.
I have to stay composed so the others won't worry.
If the Deputy Master struggles with this, how could the others trust me in battle?
And to be honest, it's really not that heavy for me.
If you really find this too heavy to lift, Captain...
You really ought to train harder.
I tried lifting Carmen's shield for myself, and was completely overwhelmed by the weight.
You can handle this thing like it weighs nothing?
Easy as pie.
I could even carry two more people on my back if needed.
My duty is to protect everyone on the field.
Carmen swung her shield and sword in a clean, fluid motion, kicking up a cloud of dust.
Her movements were neat and economical, without a hint of waste.
Haha. What do you think?
Judging by that worn grip, I can tell how much you've trained.
I guess I better step up too.
...
For some reason, she blushed and casually tore off the old leather grip.
Then, she looked back at me with a blank expression.
Hmm? Was there some leather on it? I didn't notice.
...
Anyway, Captain. Your shoulders seem really stiff.
That's a sign your muscles are all knotted up.
Haha. There's a special stretching routine that's been passed down through the Knights for cases like that.
Could you please lie down over here?
L-like this?
As I lay down in position, Carmen naturally straddled my back.
...?!
Hmm? Something wrong?
Oh? You mean this position?
Haha. I can't help you stretch properly unless I do it like this.
Oh, Captain... Is your mind starting to stray? Fuhuhu.
Pure thoughts, nothing but pure thoughts in my head!
Haha... Is that so?
All right, no weird thoughts. Just relax.
Breathe out—hoo...!
Hnnngh! S-stop...
Haha. Not yet. Just a bit more.
With your body this stiff, your range of motion narrows and your risk of injury goes up.
Oh dear, your leg muscles are really tight, too.
Relax your thighs and entrust your body to me, Captain.
That's it. Good boy.
Hmm... How's your lower back?
A bit tense, huh?
Yep, your back's all knotted too.
Just like before, exhale as you stretch. Hoo...!
Nnngh...!
Haha. Feels better, doesn't it?
Just call me anytime you need another session.
I'll personally guide you through the full stretch routine, Captain.
After the session, my body felt noticeably lighter.
Maybe if I practice this properly, I can return the favor next time.
I should ask her to teach me the full routine when I get the chance.