NABC Chapter 282
Chapter 282
A Change
It’s because I’m full of anxieties about the future. That’s why those two, working hard towards their goals, are so dazzling. I know. I know, buuut! Because of that, my anxieties are brought to the forefront, and I can’t genuinely cheer for them. I hate myself for it. I want to cheer for them, I want them to do their best. I truly feel that way, but my heart is heavy, and it’s painful.
It’s fine, calm down. I’ve seen the future, in my dreams. A future where I’m smiling happily. That future will definitely come. So I know, even though I’m struggling now, things will work out.
But what’s wrong with me? I’m usually able to feel positive after remembering that. This isn’t like me. ...Not like me.
“......Gu......!!”
────Where am I?
“Meg!!”
I suddenly heard someone calling my name. It was so loud, and yet, I wasn’t surprised, even though they were right next to my ear. It’s strange. This fuzzy feeling... it’s like when I wake up. M-Maybe I was sleeping? While standing? Huhhh?
“Meg!”
“Gil-san...?”
I was called again, and finally understood the current situation. Apparently, I’m being held by Gil-san. When I answered vaguely, he seemed relieved and loosened his grip. Did I do something?
“...Let’s go to the Village.”
“! Dad.”
I noticed Dad was also nearby. Or rather, there were a lot of people around me. Even Asuka. They were all looking at me, worried and uneasy. ...Could it be?
“Was I... about to lose control...?”
Everyone looked down, making serious expressions. Ah, so that’s the answer.
Still, I, the one who was about to lose control, don’t have any symptoms. I just feel like I was spacing out. So I don’t understand why they’re all looking at me so worriedly.
“That’s the ‘I don’t really get it’ face, huh. Ash also said he just felt fuzzy, like he was in a dream, or like he’d just woken up, and didn’t really think anything of it, at first.”
That’s bad, isn’t it! It definitely means it’s started! Eh, has it progressed that much? It hasn’t even been that long since I heard about it, so... don’t tell me the signs were already there, back then?
“We’re going to the High Elf Village, right... does that mean I won’t be able to participate in the tournament?”
That’s what I’m worried about right now. I know there are more important things! But, I decided to participate, I was getting excited, I was training. I promised Rune and Goot, and Urbano, that I’d go... and Asuka too.
“We don’t know that yet.”
“Eh?”
Dad, seeing me dejected, put his hand on my head and smiled awkwardly. Apparently, we’re going to consult the other High Elves. That maybe, if they adjust the flow of my magic power, I might be able to calm down before the tournament and participate. I-I see. So I shouldn’t give up yet.
“What’s probably the worst for you right now... is feeling down. Emotional stability’s important, in order to prevent you from losing control.”
“Emotional... stability...”
“Well, that was the plan, anyway. Okay, I’ll watch over your training tomorrow and the day after tomorrow.”
“Yes! And to think we’ll even be trained by the head of Ortus, how luxurious!”
I knew Dad would be defeated by those eyes. He loves kids, after all.... But it’s a nice offer for me too, so I jumped up and down happily, with Asuka. A lot of people coughed. Was it that funny?
“Just the mornings, though. Sorry, I have a lot to take care of.”
“That’s enough, Dad. ...Thanks.”
I was touched by Dad, who was scratching his cheek apologetically. I know he’s busy right now. He has to do more work than anyone because he’s the head of Ortus, and yet he’s giving up his time for me. I thanked him, hugging him tightly around his waist.
“Ah. I can work hard, if I hear those words. Alright everyone, I’m going to be giving you all more work!”
There were cries of anguish at Dad’s words. But they were all cheerful, things like, “I knew you’d say that!”, and “Seriously!? You’re so evil!”, I love them so much! But it’s true that things are going to get tough. I can’t forget to be grateful.
“Thank you too, everyone.”
So I bowed deeply, conveying my gratitude. The members of Ortus are also like family to me. Just like they think of me as family. But there’s also the saying, “Familiarity breeds contempt.”
“That’s probably why everyone loves you. It’s not just because you’re a child and cute, you know?”
“R-Really?”
I think it’s basic, to thank and apologize. It’s probably hard for tsundere types though. But I think it’s fine if those feelings are conveyed, even if they’re not put into words. Reki’s incredibly clumsy, but he’s considerate. And Urbano’s handwriting, even though he’s shy, shows how much effort he’s putting into it. Or a gentle look in Gil-san’s eyes.
I’m just saying them because I can put them into words. I think everyone’s kind, and that they are expressing those feelings. It’s just that words are the easiest way to convey them. I don’t want to miss those subtle feelings they have.
“Hey, let’s go eat.”
“Asuka... yeah! Ah, Gil-san is...”
I saw Dad off, as he ruffled my hair and left, and then Asuka spoke to me, so I cheerfully replied. I then wondered what Gil-san’s going to do. He looked away last time, so I timidly looked up.
“Gil too! Let’s eat!”
“M-Me too?”
Asuka, seeing me falter there, grabbed Gil-san’s arm and invited him. Gil-san looked flustered. You’re amazing, Asuka!
“For now, you resemble Gil more than me. But I’m going to get you someday, you know.”
But he added that, pouting slightly. Get me? I wonder if there’s something he wants. Just as I was tilting my head, I heard Gil-san chuckle.
“I see.”
“Ah, you’re not taking me seriously, are you!? I mean it! I really, really mean it!”
Ah, huh? Gil-san looks like he’s having fun. Asuka’s getting worked up though. I don’t understand what’s going on anymore. But seeing those two happy made me feel happy, so I stopped thinking!