Camus: Is there somewhere you'd like to visit? Something you'd like to try?
Cheppie: Well, umm... no, there's not, so...
Cheppie: I-I'm happy to go wherever you two want to go.
Cheppie: If you'd prefer that I choose somewhere, please command me.
With his eyes erratically darting around, Cheppie's face seems somewhat pale.
Camus & Emma: ......
When I glance at Camus-san, our eyes meet, as if we feel the same way.
Cheppie: B-Being confronted about places I want to go or things I want to do is just a little overwhelming.
Cheppie: I'd rather be given a command for... for things like that...
Camus: ...Cheppie. Just come over here for now.
Camus-san and I stand on either side of Cheppie to support him, and we make our way closer to the sofa.
Cheppie: ......
Camus: Have you calmed down a little?
Cheppie: Yes... I'm very sorry for burdening the two of you...
Emma: I don't think you're burdening us.
Emma: We're just... concerned about what's hurting you so badly.
Emma: If you don't mind, could you tell us what's wrong?
In response to my question, Cheppie gives a small nod.
Cheppie: ......I hate the concept of freedom.
Cheppie: I was touched by your kindness when both of you asked me what I wanted to do.
Cheppie: But most of all, I was afraid.
Cheppie: Freedom means being uncertain, and that thought is just terrifying.
Emma: (...What does freedom mean to him?)
Camus: ...Perhaps you are not accustomed to a life of having choices.
Cheppie: ......
Cheppie: I guess so...
Cheppie raises his downcast head and turns to look somewhere in the distance.
Cheppie: ...The human I had blessed long ago was subjected to cruel and ruthless commands one after another.
Cheppie: Naturally, that means he had no freedom.
Cheppie: But eventually he learned to find pleasure in being forced around. That is how he lived, having changed himself like that.
Cheppie: That's why... That's why I'm...
Emma: That's why you're not sure what path to take.
Camus: ...Rest assured, this is not that uncommon of a story.
Camus: Anyone would feel lost when faced with the unknown.
Cheppie: ...Really?
Camus: Yes. When you've only ever known a life without freedom or choices, it's only natural you'd be overwhelmed when they're suddenly thrust your way.
Camus: Although it may seem terrifying now, someday you will grow accustomed to it.
Emma: Cheppie, thank you for sharing your story.
Cheppie: No, I... I should be the one thanking you.
As he whispered that, a faint, restrained smile returned to Cheppie's lips. I let out a small sigh of relief.
Camus: We aren't going to force you to decide where we go next.
Camus: Emma-san, if you have anywhere you would like to visit, I'll be happy to join you.
Camus: And if not, just strolling through this beautiful town with those close to me is enjoyable in itself.
Emma: Hehe, you're right. Let's just go explore!
Emma: Cheppie, make sure to tell us if anything catches your eye along the way.
Cheppie: ...I will.
Some time has passed since we started exploring the ship.
Cheppie: Ah...
Cheppie had stopped in front of something.
Cheppie: Um... If the two of you would allow it, could we stop in here?
Camus: That is perfectly fine, but... this place...
