Consolation Ceremony (1)

In the end, Commander Cyril brought the gathering to a close with a single remark.

“Chief, judging from your conversation, it seems someone here is still recovering from an illness. If so, I think you should hurry home and let them lie down.”

At Commander Cyril’s words, the chief looked up with a start, then bowed his head apologetically.

“You’re quite right, Duke Sutherland. Then, with your permission, some of us, myself included, will take our leave. We shall meet again at the Consolation Ceremony in five days, yes?”

The chief hesitated for a moment, then spoke to me as though he found it difficult to ask.

“Fia-sama, if you wouldn’t mind, would you wear that pale blue dress to the Consolation Ceremony? ...It suits you very well.”

“Huh? Well, if it’s something I can do, I’d be happy to grant your request, but I’ve come here as a knight, so...”

As I faltered, Commander Cyril came to my rescue.

“Fia, this is the first time I’ve ever received a request from the chief. If you don’t mind, could you grant it?”

“Huh? Y-yes, of course. If I have Commander Cyril’s permission, I’d be delighted to wear it.”...