Galahad's Episode

Well then, let's work together for the next few days, Galahad.

Likewise, I look forward to working with you, master.

I'm glad to be partnered with you. If I were assigned to another team, I might have had to deal with some troublesome character.

Is that supposed to be a compliment?

Haha, of course. You're diligent and kind.

Thank you for your kind words. I shall do my utmost to protect you!

The ones we need to protect are the council chamber and the dignitaries, not me. Now, shall we get going?

To Salisbury!

There really are a lot of people here. It truly feels like an international summit.

Were past meetings not like this?

No, they felt more like secret negotiations rather than formal summits.

It's like a festival right now, with stalls set up and plenty of gatherings of attendants.

Indeed, it is quite bustling.

It's rather chaotic, so let's stay vigilant. If an assassination attempt were to happen now, it'd be disastrous.

Oh dear!

Are you all right, sir?

Hoho... Thank you, young lady...

This area is crowded and could be dangerous. It would be safer to go that way.

See? Galahad really is kind.

You kids over there! Running around like that is dangerous. Where are your parents?

You really have such a caring heart.

They all ran away. I just hope they don't get lost...

Kind and compassionate...

Master, everything seems secure in this area. Perhaps we should have a meal and move on to the next sector?

Diligent and noble. Truly, the epitome of a fantasy heroine!

What have you been muttering about since earlier?

Just admiring you. After dealing with reckless, stubborn troublemakers, this sense of peace is almost intoxicating.

As expected of Galahad! A knight of the Round Table, seated in the place reserved only for the purest of heart!

But more importantly, I am hungry...

Protecting allies with a massive shield, defending the weak, kind-hearted...

Master?

...Huh?

Shall. We. Eat? (I said I'm hungry. This is getting annoying.)

Ah... Uh... Yeah. I guess I was talking too much while starving, huh? Haha...

But just now, that look in your eyes...

When people are hungry, they sometimes get irritated without realizing it. Now, shall we go?

What are you thinking about so deeply, master?

... Huh?

Ah...! This steak sauce is surprisingly sweet. I was just imagining what ingredients might be in it.

If you like it, I shall order more.

That's not really necessary...

Hmm? Is that so? I thought you'd like it since I've heard that men in their prime are truly passionate about food.

Everyone's different when it comes to food, I guess? Anyway, thanks for thinking of me.

Hoho, think nothing of it. Looking after you is only natural for me, master.

I must have been mistaken. Seeing Galahad's angelic smile put my mind at ease.

You should eat some too. There's still plenty left.

I am on a diet, so I shall pass.

A diet? But you have to fight while carrying that heavy shield. What if you run out of energy?

This is nothing. I can lift it with ease!

I shall protect you, master, no matter what. You have nothing to fear.

Haha...

After spending so much time with people who always whine and complain, being with you feels so peaceful. You're so considerate, too.

Do you truly think so?

Yeah. I'd even want to travel together all the time.

Then, while we chat...

How about taking a short break after eating? I found a hill with a great view.

Huh? But we're supposed to be patrolling. If nothing seems off, we still have to stand guard. Leaving the area might not be a good idea.

That patrol... If we move right after eating, we won't digest properly. That is why I suggested it.

Still, it's part of the job...

The wind is refreshing, and we can still keep watch from the hill, master.

...

Fine. A short stroll should be okay.

Not a stroll, I suggest we settle down there for a while. It will refresh both body and mind.

Huh? Settle down...?

...Wait, Galahad, are you trying to slack off?

Slack...?

That is absolutely not the case.

R-Right? Then why do you keep insisting on taking a break?

Well, walking around nonstop is a hassle, no, I mean, we can see things better from a higher vantage point.

You just said it's a hassle...

I most certainly did not.

Hmm...?

I told you, I did not. (Why do you keep asking? It's getting annoying.)

But I clearly heard you say...

That was delicious!

Galahad!

Wait, Galahad!

Huff... Finally caught you.

...

Why did you suddenly run? And what was with the way you were talking just now?

Don't tell me... Have you been forcing yourself to act all refined?

...It just kind of turned out that way.

Turned out that way? Why?

Well... Since I was young, I've been told over and over that I have to be a good person...

But my feelings for you, master, are absolutely genuine! That much I can swear!

I'm not doubting you. I'm just worried... Forcing yourself to hold back must be exhausting, isn't it?

It's not exactly forcing... It's just that... my true feelings are a bit too blunt, so speaking freely feels a little embarrassing...

That's proof that you're suppressing yourself.

If you keep acting in a way that doesn't feel natural, you'll end up mentally exhausted. That's not good for a knight.

I-Is that so...?

This won't do. From now on, when you're with me, just say exactly what's on your mind. Think of it as emotional training.

Master... That's a bit...

It's fine, trust me. No matter how you speak, I'll accept it all.

Even if this demeanor is all an act, your true heart isn't a lie. I believe in your kindness, Galahad! You got this!

...

... Alright. Then from now on, I'll try to speak more freely with you, master.

That's the spirit.

First things first, I need to put down this ridiculously heavy shield before we continue.

O-Okay...

Haah... Why are there so many annoying things in sight today?

As if things weren't chaotic enough, we've got wobbly old folks, reckless kids running wild, and filthy livestock all over the place...

I should just round them all up and...

Wait! Waaaait!

Yes...?

That's way too much of a shift! You're not just grumbling a little, you sound like a full-blown, ill-tempered maniac!

... So it really does come across that way.

Honestly, it's a relief no one else heard it. I feel like I just cracked open Pandora's box.

Hmm... It'd be nice if you could keep your usual demeanor while being honest about your frustrations...

But everything is just so annoying and exhausting...

I don't think that's your true nature. You've suppressed yourself too much, and now it's all coming out at once.

Then what should I do?

Just keep acting as you normally do. I'll figure out what you really mean and tell you. Like a game!

In that case...

Understood. If that's what you wish, I shall follow.

That might not be enough.

Ah...! You got it. Damn, that's impressive.

My real thoughts too...?

The weather is lovely. A perfect day to lie on the grass and eat sandwiches.

Oh, right! That's exactly how you should say it.

Understood. Ugh, this is such a damn hassle.

Y-Yeah... You're doing great, Galahad...

I had some regrets about stirring things up, but it was a necessary sacrifice for the mental well-being of a dear comrade.

And so, I had to endure an endless barrage of Galahad's increasingly rough language.

A few days into the training, both good and bad things emerged.

The good: Galahad seemed much more at ease. And the bad...

Why the hell is there carrot in this again? That damn cook. Such a pathetic and miserable meal plan.

...was that the swearing had skyrocketed.

Uh... Galahad?

Hm? What is it, master?

I feel like this is going in a bad direction... Maybe try sticking to your original speech a bit more?

Eh? A bad direction, you say...? I shall be mindful.

Maybe it's because she doesn't have much experience dealing with people. She's absurdly pure yet completely unfiltered.

Is that so...? You're damn quick to catch on.

Cough!

...This isn't working. If you can't find the right balance, maybe we should put this on pause. We can't keep doing this forever.

I just can't get the balance right. If I let my thoughts out, I get too heated, but if I hold them in, I feel awful...

It's my advice that was lacking, so don't worry too much.

... I thought I could fix this somehow.

... I'll make sure it doesn't affect our combat.

It's not just that. I'm trying to help you with emotional control so you don't get mentally worn out.

Master... Why are you so concerned about me?

Well...

To think you would consider me that much...

What is he doing? Is he flirting with me?

I'm just speaking the truth. Your feelings are spilling out all over the place, Galahad.

I-I'll be more careful...

I haven't given up. I suggested we stop because the mission is almost over, but I'll continue helping you with your speech and personality!

Not being able to express your feelings freely... I can't just leave that horrible habit unchecked.

Thank you, master. Because of you, I was able to reflect on my own issues.

And...

I was impressed by your tolerance, even when I was being bothersome or frustrated.

Hmm, well... it's just that I've been well-trained for that kind of thing...

I swear on this shield, I'll protect you, mas...

Ah, I dropped the shield.

Hmm! Ahem! So, master...

Ah, it's too much trouble to say it again...

Haha, you're quite the interesting one.

That's what I should be saying, though.

What?

What I'm saying is, you're damn amazing.

Galahad's smile wasn't fake; it came from the heart.

Sigh...

Ugh... my whole body aches. Those girls... they beat me up and threw me out like I was some pervert...

Are you all right, Ethan?

...? Galahad?

You'll catch a cold sleeping out here. Come, let's get you into a warm bed.

Leave me... I don't even have the energy to move...

A world where you can't even enjoy bunny girls freely... Fine. I'll just lie here and embrace the sky as my ceiling. At least I've got freedom.

If it's bunny girls you want, there's one right here, you know? (Am I invisible or something? Can you seriously not see this fabulous bunny standing in front of you?!)

What are you, wait, huh?!

G-Galahad... why are you still dressed like that...?

Your shift's not over?

My shift is finished, yes...

But this girl has a strong sense of duty.

You came to visit me, I felt responsible for not serving you properly. (You looked, so you should've paid...!)

So you came to check up on me...

Indeed. I wanted to make sure you got a proper look at me... (I just didn't feel like changing, okay?)

You're the best!

You're too kind. (Well, at least you're aware.)

And the bunny outfit really suits you. Especially the way it, uh, emphasizes the...

Hmm...

Something wrong?

Maybe it's the angle... or maybe it's the outfit... but your... um... you know, they look a little... bigger than usual...

E.T.H.A.N?

Ah! I didn't mean to! It's just, your appearance caught me off guard and my mouth moved faster than my brain...

Comments and stares like that are quite rude. I do appreciate the attention, however. (At least you noticed.)

Hahaha... I guess I've just been paying more attention than I realized. Sorry.

I understand curiosity... but until marriage, please restrain yourself.

Marriage...?

Ahem! Ahem!

Since you're feeling weak, this works out perfectly. I brought some food, worried you might be starving out here...

Food? Wait, curry?!

I wasn't sure if it'd suit your tastes. I prepared it with care, so please enjoy it slowly.

Thanks, Galahad. I'll dig in!

Mmm... nom nom...

Tastes great... but is it just me, or are there a lot of carrots in here?

Right now, this humble girl is a rabbit. And rabbits like carrots, do they not? Hence, carrot curry.

Ah... right...

Rabbits also know how to share what they love. I thought surely you'd be delighted.

I-I am. It's great!

I'm glad. (Actually put too many carrots in by mistake, but no way I'm admitting that.)

Ahhh... Now I feel alive again.

You came all this way just to feed me when I was down... I'm touched, Galahad.

I guess a bunny with such impressive figure must also have a kind and generous heart!

Hehe... this humble girl's heart has always been big and warm. (This pervert... good grief.)

Your waist, usually hidden under all that armor, is so sleek... and your hips are just like a fluffy bunny's, and those legs...

If you say one more thing, I will be leaving.

R-Right, I'll stop...

...You seem more spirited than usual today. May I ask why?

Easy. There's a beautiful bunny girl standing next to me under the moonlight.

Plus, I was totally drained earlier. What guy in my position wouldn't feel something?

Honestly, I wanted to hang out more at the inn, but...

So, in short... you got sulky because your masculine urges were left unfulfilled?

...Yeah.

...(Pervert.)

I don't really understand, but...

I do acknowledge your effort. You came all this way just to see me and even threw yourself in harm's way to keep other men away from me.

That was... quite admirable. (Okay, fine, I'll give him credit for that.)

You really get it... I've barely been recognized in this world, so hearing that makes me happy.

Everyone else just doesn't see your worth. But I believe in you. (You did kinda try today... so yeah.)

N-No, it's nothing. I just did what anyone would.

Something wrong?

No, it's just...

I get it now...! It's the veil. You've had this oddly graceful and innocent air about you all evening.

Thank you for the compliment. (Hmph. At least you have good taste.)

It suits me, does it not? It was the condition for accepting such a... shameless outfit.

I-I see...

This veil...

It means I'm ready to marry you anytime, Ethan. (Not that I'm serious... probably...?)

Huh?!

Now then...

Uhhhhh...

W-Wait! Hold on! I-I'm not ready for...

What are you talking about? I simply came to collect my tip. (What the heck were you imagining?)

...Tip?

My feelings for you are genuine, but business is business. (I came all the way out here in costume, obviously I deserve it.)

Anything more than this... I'd like to do it in a nicer place. (Come on, we're in the middle of nowhere.)

It was nice... feeling your warmth, even for a little while.

Galahad...

Now then, I'll be heading back.

Wait, I'll walk you. It's dark out, and you're dressed like... that.

I appreciate your concern, but I can defend myself.

Still, you're unarmed right now. Come on, let's go.

...If you insist, I'll accompany you.

Galahad.

Yes?

Hehe, I've only ever been honest about how I feel. (You really are hopelessly dense sometimes.)

I am pure of heart.

But in the end, truth lies in the eyes of the beholder, does it not?

...Fair point.

I'm simply waiting. For the day you and I can truly open our hearts to one another.

...

We're almost there, so I'll head inside. May you have a peaceful night, Ethan.

...Galahad.

Thanks for today. And... you really were beautiful tonight.

Hehe, thank you. (Ahh, why'd you have to say that all serious now?! That's so cheesy!)

Then... good night. (Still... I didn't hate hearing it...)