Part 202: Frederick C

Frederick! What are you doing up so early?

Good morning, Sumia. I'm inspecting everyone's weapons and armor to ensure all is ready for battle.

But it's not even dawn yet! Don't you ever sleep?

I have sword to serve Chrom and the Shepherds to the best of my ability. As commander, Chrom bears a burden far heavier than any of ours. It would ill behoove me to neglect any opportunity to lessen that load.

He's fortunate to have you. Imagine getting up this early just to check gear!

I did not stir this morn simply to satisfy myself as to our battle readiness. I also exercised, performed a number of weapon drills, and patrolled the camp. I then stoked the fire, readied the makings for morning tea, and consumed one egg.

Er...

Oh, and I scared off a noisy flock of birds nesting too near milord's tent.

Then, with no other pressing task, I took the time to inspect our equipment.

Good heavens.

Apologies, my lady. You must find my prattle to be terribly dull. I have often been criticized for what some consider to be an excess of zeal. Such devotion appears to make my comrades uneasy.

Well, I think it's wonderful!

...You do?

Absolutely! You're an inspiration, Frederick. There's no other word for it. Look at all you do for Chrom! It makes me wish I was more like you. I'm so sick of being the girl whose main contribution is falling on her face! I know we all need levity in these times, but I would still prefer to do more.

I don't know what to say. You're the first person who has ever understood what I'm trying to do. Perhaps we should join our causes to each other. We could be the grease that keeps the Shepherds running smoothly.

Now THAT is a splendid idea