28-Patrolling (2/2)

He ran into the tavern and drank so much that he emptied the entire tavern.

When he returned to the barracks, Spinoza was drunk to the bone on Seira's back. Commander Bolton gave me a good squeeze. I'm a ...... squad leader.

It was the same when Sayla teamed up with Pham.

”Sayla. I've got work to do. I can't take my eyes off you. So can I leave this to you?

If someone asks you why you're here, you'll usually at least ask why.

You are at work.

And I'll check if it's a priority.

But--

”If that's what you're saying, then it must be a very important situation. ....... I understand!　I'm sure you'll be fine.

I gave my permission easily.

Incidentally, what Fam should have been doing was stalking me.

It wasn't a reason for her to skip her patrol at all.

Seirra is very quick to believe what people say, and will listen to what they want, even if she knows it will hurt her.

Anyone who works with her is bound to be lazy.

That's why I couldn't assign Spinoza and Fam to her. It's a breeding ground for slacking off.

...... Seira is going to be a bad man maker.

I'm worried that she'll be preyed upon by the wrong men in the future.

I'm sure you'll be able to figure out what to do with it. and keep a pimp.

I'm sure you'll be able to understand why.

I'm not sure what to make of it, but I'm sure it's a good idea. I've always been impressed by that.

I'm sure you'll be happy to hear that. ...... Especially someone like Spinoza. You have to know when to use the lash and when to use the whip.

I'd like to be able to scold people properly.

Then why don't you practice?

Practice?

Yeah. Just pretend I'm a slacking guard and give me a warning. It'll be difficult to scold you on the spot.

Okay, okay. I'll try.

Seira nodded, her face flushed. She moved her shoulders up and down to loosen up. She slapped her cheeks lightly and began her rehearsal.

”Mr. Zeke. What are you doing there?　Didn't I just order you to go on patrol in the city?

”Don't be so formal. You need to cut loose once in a while.

That's right... no!　You can't do that!　We have to work to protect the lives of the people of the city!

I'm not sure if this is a good idea or not.

”Mr. Zeke!　I'm sorry.　I'm sorry.

She pointed at my face and said.

--What?

What do you think?　Did you do it well?　Did it freak you out and make you want to do your job better next time?

No, ...... might have the opposite effect.

What?

The moment I got angry, I wanted to get even more angry because I could see the compassion underlying Seira's anger.

This may be a very difficult road.