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Ch. 3: Al's Feelings

 

As the sun slowly began to sink, the courtyard was wrapped in twilight.

 

Aldebaran: “Alright, this is the courtyard~!”

 

OO: “…t-this?”

 

Looking around, the entire courtyard was covered with cultivated plots growing a variety of vegetables.

 

There are even fields in the courtyard…

 

Aldebaran: “A major agricultural country like this wouldn’t have any other kind of courtyard.”

 

Al suddenly sat down on the spot and began to feel through the earth while he hummed a tune.

 

He looks like he’s really having fun.

 

Aldebaran: “It’s nice to see my fields after I’ve been asleep for so long. It’s been a while.”

 

I felt myself relax as I saw how happy Al was.

 

Aldebaran: “I know! Do you want to try watering the plants with me?”

 

Saying so, Al held out a watering can.

 

OO: “Thanks.”

 

As Al taught me the proper amount to use, I carefully poured the water over some turned-up leaves that seemed near death.

 

The water fell from the can, and the little leaves became a more vibrant green.

 

Aldebaran: “You have the soul of a hard worker.”

 

OO: “Eh?”

 

Al spoke quietly, out of nowhere, as he watched me water the plants.

 

Aldebaran: “Ah, sorry. It’s something my grandmother would say to me.”

 

OO: “Your grandmother…?”

 

Aldebaran: “She’d say that since we’re royalty, we mustn’t live luxuriously and neglect our work. Live like the people, and

experience the necessary pains and pleasures of life.”

 

That’s a wonderful way of thinking…

 

Butler: “Surely you jest my lord. Her Highness is in no state for holding a party.”

 

OO: “Um…is your grandmother ill…?

 

Aldebaran: “Sorry, you’re probably curious after hearing that conversation earlier.”

 

[CHOICE]

  • I'm worried (SUN)

  • Is it alright to ask? (MOON)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aldebaran: “For a while now, she’s been confined to her bed. But I’m sure she’ll get better.”

 

Al smiled kindly at me.

 

OO: “…I’m sure you’re right.”

 

Hearing of Al’s grandmother, I averted my gaze and looked down.

 

Aldebaran: “Don’t make that face.”

 

OO: “Al…”

 

Al gently placed his large hand on my head.

 

[CHOICE]

  • Smile (SUN)

  • Look down (MOON)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aldebaran: “My parents died early on, and my grandmother raised me in their stead. She’s really strict, but she’s also more energetic and cheerful than anyone else I know. And she loves causing an uproar!”

 

…I wonder.

 

OO: “Were you thinking that your grandmother would love having a party…and that’s why you suggested it?”

 

Aldebaran: “Because of what’s happened to my grandmother, the castle has become dark, and I blame myself, for why there’s nothing fun going on. I’m sure she’d be happy if the castle was livelier.”

 

Al smiled, but hid his face ever so slightly.

 

OO: “…I think you’re right, about your grandmother.”

 

Aldebaran: “Thanks OO.”

 

I didn’t realize it because Al is always smiling….but he really is worried about his grandmother.

 

Thinking of Al’s feelings, a warmth filled my heart.

 

Aldebaran: “We should think about heading back.”

 

OO: “Yeah…”

 

Even on the way back to the castle, Al wouldn’t let his smile fade.

 

OO: “Yes…is it alright for me to ask about it?”

Aldebaran: “Sure. It’s fine to be concerned about someone else after all.”

Without knowing what to say, I kept my eyes downcast.

 

Aldebaran: “I’m sorry for worrying you.”

OO: “Al…yeah, I’m sure she’ll get better.”

I smiled sweetly, hoping to lift his spirits.

Aldebaran: “Thanks. You’re a good person.”

OO: “…I’m just concerned.”

Aldebaran: “Thanks.”

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