Chapter 191
Changing Days
"──Captain Bernhardt. Captain Adel."
In the grand hall of Imperial Command, the two soldiers stood on the platform and received plaques. Decorations were pinned to their chests, medals hung at their throats. They stared blankly at the honors and at their new rank insignia.
"From this point forward, devote yourselves to the Empire and the military with loyalty that cuts into bone and flesh. As His Majesty's spotless sword and shield, hold only pride in your hearts and advance without wavering......"
Still, the two of them could not return to the Eastern 7th Armored Grenadier Brigade. It was a measure taken for their own sake.
Even so, they were still soldiers of the Empire. Adel and Bernhardt remained at headquarters for a while, chose a border post, and were assigned to the 2nd Eastern Border Defense Division.
"......My head's spinning."
One day, as those matters were finally wrapping up, beneath an old tree in headquarters' rear garden,
Adel and Bernhardt met again.