Bodyguard

Bodyguard

Navia:Aether? I’m sorry in advance but can I trouble you with something?

Aether:It’s you asking so no trouble at all. What’s wrong.

Navia:It’s just…there’s a really important meeting I have with some other business individuals in Fontaine in order to Poisson. It’s pretty normal for the heads of the business to take a guard with them for protection. Not only that but because of the state of Spina Di Rosula is in…I fear people may think now is the time to walk all over us.

Aether:So showing up with a guard isn’t just for security, but a display that you’re still going strong? I’ll be honest, sounds like you should be hiring Clorinde more than me.

Navia:She has her own job to deal with. Being a champion duelist means someone wants to hire you for one reason or another. I’d rather not bother her with this. Not to say I’m okay bothering you! It’s just…

Aether:I get it. No offense taken. So I’m being a bodyguard? Sounds easy enough. Of course I’ll help.

Navia:Thank you. I’ll be sure to pay you accordingly…

Aether:Hmm? Why would you pay me? It’s just a favor between friends. If I’m gonna ask for anything, then it would be for more macarons when you get the chance. Paimon still talks about them.

Navia:Heh, alright then. I’ll be sure to make an entire batch afterwards. The meeting is tomorrow at noon.

Aether:I’ll be at Poisson to escort you a couple hours early then!

Navia:Sounds like a plan. See you then, and thank you again. Seriously. *walks away*

Aether:….(Alright, guess I should take this seriously.)

xxxxx

Tomorrow comes in a blink of an eye. Not gaining much sleep, Navia does her best to appear well rested. It’s not that she didn’t try to, but moments like these were never her strongest. And now that she was doing it without… No, she mustn’t think about that right now. Right now her efforts need to be on rebuilding what’s left and not missing all that was lost.

A knock on her door came the moment she put on her out. Talk about punctual. Maybe Aether didn’t get much rest either? There was plenty of time before departure. Navia walked to the door and opened it so he wouldn’t have to wait in the dreary atmosphere. She didn’t expect what waited on the other side. Sleepiness was pushed away from her gaze as her friend stood before her in a black suit, gloves, and fedora just like her men.

Navia:How did you…?

Aether:I asked around a bit yesterday and got myself fitted. I don’t think Melus and Silver would ever forgive me if I didn’t try my absolute best. So- Navia?

The girl had the biggest, warmest smile on her face, but it eas accompanied by a well of tears. Even she didn’t know if she going to laugh or cry.

Aether:H-Hey!? I’m sorry. Was this too much?

Navia:Hehe..no, Goodness, no. I’m just a little overwhelmed is all, but so happy too. *sniffles*

Aether:..*bows head* I’m ready when you are.

Navia:I’m curious, do you plan on calling me Demoiselle as well?

Aether:My pronunciation is not up to par with all that, hehe. Sorry.

Navia:It was just a joke. Even I might find that a little much. Please, raise your head. There’s something I want to give you.

Aether looks up to see her run towards her vanity mirror and run back holding two pairs of shades. She opens up one and slides them onto his face.

Navia:Perfect.

Aether:Now I’m really part of the group.

Navia:Haha, what are you going on about? You’ve always been one of us. *puts shades on* And don’t you forget it.

Aether:*smiles* Well then, ahem! Shall we go get breakfast before we start today’s affairs.

Navia:Hehe, I believe we shall.