A Day with Darach

Scottie and Cynthia were headed back to town after a Pokémon battle. They came across Darach, who seemed worried.

What's the matter, Darach?

Greetings, Scottie and Lady Cynthia. I was just returning from grocery shopping.

I had to stop myself from purchasing Lady Caitlin's favorite brand of tea. It took all of my strength to remove it from my cart and return it to the shelf...

You never change, do you, Darach?

As embarrassing as it is to admit, Lady Cynthia, you are indeed correct, this is my nature.

As a butler it's my sworn duty to look after my lady, and it's not as though I have been forbidden from buying tea, but... *sigh*

It is extremely difficult to break oneself of habits that one has developed over many years... *sigh*

Lady Caitlin has been doing more and more for herself since she arrived here on Pasio.

I've done my utmost to keep my distance and refrain from performing tasks that she hasn't asked of me.

It is for that reason that I have not been purchasing her favorite tea...

*chuckle* Your situation reminds me of your partner Pokémon, Staraptor.

When a Staravia evolves into a Staraptor, it leaves the flock to live alone.

I see. You're saying Lady Caitlin has grown. That it is time for her to "leave the nest," so to speak.

And yet, I must admit that thinking about the situation in such terms makes me feel quite lonely...

I am grateful. I suppose you could say that where one door closes, another opens.

Thank you. That does make me feel rather better.

Lady Caitlin has made many new, wonderful friends like you since she came to Pasio.

It's a complicated feeling, to be unable to tend to my lady when she needs my help.

I have a favor to ask you. If it's not too much trouble, could you please continue to be Lady Caitlin's friend, now and into the future?

I am extremely grateful.

Of course. I suppose I needn't have asked you to do that which you already intended.

Do you feel a bit better now?

Yes. I will do everything I can not to be too overprotective and anxious about Lady Caitlin.

... ... ...

Are you OK, Darach?

It's just...I'm the only one who truly understands my lady's taste in tea. Surely I could be forgiven for making just one purchase...

Oh, dear. It's never easy watching a fledgling leave the nest.

This might take a bit more time.