Part 117: Frederick A

... And that concludes today's report, milord.

All right. Thank you, Frederick.

*Sigh*

Now there's something I never expected to hear. Is everything all right, Frederick?

Oh! M-my apologies, sire! I did not mean for you to hear that.

It's fine, but are you all right? You're not coming down with something, are you?

Not at all, milord. I'm the picture of health.

Then why have you seemed so exhausted lately? You looked pale as a sheet this morning! I though a Risen had entered our camp. The other Shepherds are worried as well. Is something the matter?

Milord, I apologize again. I'm just... You see... I feel I've been of no use to either you or Lissa of late.

Hmm? What was that? You're mumbling.

N-nothing, milord! It's nothing. Perhaps I simply need a bit of sleep.

Then go rest! And if there's anything bothering you, come tell me straightaway.

Oh, but before you go... Thank you for patching the holes in everyone's tents. I know mine is a lot more comfortable without that blasted draft.

But milord, I... How did you know?

Who else would fix a tiny detail like that after a long day of battle?! So again, my friend, thank you. From everyone. There are days I think this entire army would fall apart if not for you.

Milord, I... I don't know what to say.

Your praise is the highest honor!

Ha ha! It's just the truth, Frederick. That's all. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go speak with Robin.

Yes, of course. Robin's tent is... that way, wasn't it?

I'll get started straightaway, milord!

Get started... Are you clearing the gravel?! Frederick, what in the world are you doing?!

It wouldn't do to have you trip up and hurt yourself, sire! Surely you see...

...Ah! Are you worried you could trip over ME, then? Of course. Not to worry, sire! I have a plan that will let me clear the path well ahead of you.

Um... Frederick?

Is something amiss, milord? Ah, of course! The reeds are a hazard as well. I'll just pluck them here...

That's... not what I was going to say.

So careless of me, sire! I'll have the devils uprooted in just a moment!

Oh, for the love of...

All clear, sire! You can trod through camp without worry or delay!

(Is this his idea of keeping things to a minimum?) (Frederick leaves) Still, I suppose if it keeps him happy...

*Offscreen* Did you say something, milord?!

Er... Frederick?!

For the love of the gods! I have a meeting with Robin!

Oh, yes, here she is now. Hello, Robin. Do pardon the intrusion.

Frederick! We don't need you to... You can dust later!

And actually, you don't need to dust Robin at all, Frederick! ...FREDERICK!