4-41: In the Shadows of Earth and Garesto II (6/6)

4-41: In the Shadows of Earth and Garesto II (6/6)

Whats with you all of the sudden? Shinichi asked.

Before Frire knew it, she was clinging tightly to the boys hand.

She hadnt rejected him and just let him do as he pleased, so the boy looked at her anxiously, but then Frire smiled.

Because she saw the boys concern for her.

Which part of that is supposed to be the face of a terrorist concerned about others? she thought.

Its nothing. I just wanted to touch your hand, she said.

R-Right Shinichi said.

An excuse that wasnt really an excuse. Was she just wanting for human warmth?

Before long she even started rubbing her cheeks against his hand.

He was supposed to be younger than her, but for some reason, he gave off a feeling that resembled that of a father.

Or perhaps, it would be better to describe the air about him to be that of an older brothers, but regardless, it was so comfortable that Frire let her guard down completely.

It was rare for the boy to be so troubled, but she didnt notice that and just immersed herself in the comfort brought by his warmth.

A strange warmth that was both different and yet reminiscent of the comfort her older brother had given her.

Thats why she found it so nostalgic and came to a conclusion on her own.

I promise you, Nakamura Shinichi.

Huh?

When theyd first met, his wanton display of selfishness had left her at a loss, but after seeing him express her concern for her in the strangest ways, she now wanted to cling to him.

She knew she shouldnt, both as an adult and as a teacher, but she feared losing this warmth even more.

For as long as I live, Ill try to do my best not to become your enemy.

Thats why she imitated him and swore that.

She left it at try because she wasnt bold enough to declare it with certainty, but she also believed that as long as he doesnt choose the wrong path, they would never meet each other as enemies.

It was a small vow compared to his, which was born from an earnest wish and his deep-seated timidity, but regardless, it took the boy by surprise, and he found himself shyly scratching his cheeks.

It was then that she finally realized that a strange expression had found its way on his face.

Youre blushing? I didnt intend anything weird by promising that, but I see, so even you can make a face like that.

Frire nodded as though shed discovered something interesting, but the boy frowned.

Unfortunately for him, his blushing face just made him look adorable.

S-Shut up.

Uwaah!?

I beg your pardon.

The AI said that, but it was clearly just an apology programmed into it for the sake of being diplomatic.

Whats the point of an AI being so glib? Ah, whatever More importantly, does this girl even have any money on her?

The change in topic is too abrupt. Moreover, the intentions are unknown. Please make your objectives clearer.

I need to adjust my appetite according to the size of her wallet. Wouldnt actually want to make her broke, now, would I?

I finally understand what the master meant. There is indeed a discrepancy in your mental age and actual age.

To be precise, its all over the place.

Just awhile ago hed declared that hed eat enough to empty her wallet, but evidently, there was a big difference between his conduct and other children his age.

But of course the person himself was aware of that, and he even provided more information to the AIs judgment.

Regardless, the AI had judged his reason to be proper, so she went ahead and explained.

The master receives a pension as a member of the ten great nobles, but it is limited by the operating funds of the territory. On the other hand, roughly 90% of her earnings from the army are still with her. Even if you eat every menu from all of Kutoria, you wont even be able to knock 5% off that, so please feel free to order what you want.

So in other words, she had a huge salary, but never used it, and it just piled up?

As it turns out, that was the only part about her that looked exactly as her image suggested a private life thats all work and no play.

Yes. It is a virtue, a lifestyle with zero financial problems.

Thats definitely an answer you were programmed to give.

Shinichi noticed that Shirayukis response was a little off, so a certain possibility popped up in his head.

Yes. I have been programmed to try and appeal should a male that meets certain criteria appear.

What in the world was your developer thinking?

Frires friend was jut too playful with her, Shinichi frowned.

Though if Frire were awake, she would have surely retorted, saying, I dont want to hear that from you!

The developers comment was recorded; allow me to play it for you. We have some tier-1 goods right here, but its pathetic how no one makes a move because its too good and overpriced. None of the men that approach even dare take a look whats inside, and even when they do, they cant see anything anyway. Its sooo annoying. Is what she said.

For a moment, Shinichi found himself blinking when the lively words of a woman suddenly resounded, but immediately after, a gentle smile appeared on him.

Thats a good friend she has there But no, Im sure it goes both ways, being a good friend, that is.

Impressions and aspirations, huh.

As Shinichi gently muttered that to himself, he combed Frires messy hair.

It mightve been his imagination, but for some reason, the expression on her sleeping face became happier.

Hmm, to both thank and apologize her for this incident, maybe I should come up with a fitting prank? Fu fu fu.

Without anyone knowing it, a boy laughing like a villain started his schemes.

The only thing certain was that this would later become a story that would make someones stomach hurt.