CH 222

The next day, early in the morning and just as the light of the sun is starting to illuminate the town around us, we are standing on a terrace in the building where Kalin’s office is.

I’m here feeling the fresh air of the early morning with Taula and Princess Lily, who are all ready for our journey.

I’m wearing the same things I usually wear and have the same backpack as always on my back.

The terrace overlooks the square, and even though it’s so early, there are quite a lot of people here to see us off.

Occasionally I hear my name and cheers from down there. I try to hold back my drowsiness and respond by smiling and waving.

People also call for Taula, who is standing behind me like she’s my guard knight, but not so much for Princess Lily.

No, the princess’ attendants Zoroa and Lismist are standing in the front row, and they are trying their hardest to cheer for her as she glares at them.

Well, it’s no wonder she’s embarrassed about her attendants cheering for her. It’s so obvious they’re with her.

As I think about this, I see Kalin is approaching the entrance to the terrace, surrounded by her staff.

She takes advantage of the fact that Princess Lily’s attention is on the square to let out a big yawn, and she has very obvious bed hair on both sides.

Her staff is fighting a tough battle against it.

You overslept, didn’t you Kalin?

They manage to fix her hair quickly, and get Kalin looking dashing. One member of her staff hangs her usual cloak on her shoulders, and Kalin steps into the terrace.

The people gathered outside cheer even more loudly.

First, Kalin bows to Princess Lily. Despite how she is, her position is still to be respected.

And then, she walks to the edge of the terrace, and starts giving her speech.

I stand still and listen to it vacantly.

Kalin really is a skillful talker. Even I start thinking it’s a great honor to be present to witness the first step towards this great endeavor that’s guaranteed to succeed.

I’m glad I don’t have to speak this time.

We had a preparatory meeting last night, and all I have to do is call Seilook when Kalin gives the signal.

Wait, that’s the signal. Seilook! Come!

I call Seilook through our bond.

“Well then, let us watch as our heroes set out to open the curtain on a new legend.”

Kalin declares loudly as she points to the sky. Seilook comes down at the perfect time, and descends rapidly while rotating.

It opens its wings just as it’s about to reach the square, and stops with its back to the terrace as it lands.

This causes a stir in the crowd.

I can tell by our bond that Seilook doesn’t dislike this at all.

Taula and Princess Lily move forward, go over the terrace, and jump on Seilook’s back.

They all love to be flashy.

Seilook twists its neck and brings its face closer to me.

It opens its mouth for me, and I place my foot on its edge and hold on to its head as it takes me to its back.

Kalin unsheathes her dear black meteorite sword and holds it high.

People who have weapons do the same with theirs, and those who don’t cheer.

And then, with our backs to the crowd, we take off with Seilook.