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]
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I'm worried (SUN)
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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]
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Smile (SUN)
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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.”