002 ▲ video

[hylights]

Who: Zelda and you
Broadcast: video, fleetwide
Action: on a train somewhere
When: now

[The video feed starts up focused on - well, it's a blur. Once the camera aligns itself it becomes clear that the camera is pointed out of the window of a train, with high rise towers whipping by at a terrific pace. Zelda turns the communicator back to herself, and boy does she look excited. She's been shopping for one thing - she's wearing clothes that are available in a lot of the stores here. And around her neck hangs a lanyard with what looks like some kind of pass.]

I think it's incredible what this world has achieved in transportation. Quite apart from the flying transports, they have these high-speed trains. I've never seen anything like it before.

[She smiles brightly and holds up her pass.]

As it turns out, you can buy a special ticket as a visitor that lets you have unlimited travel while you're here. They give you little gifts as well, every ten journeys you take. [She doesn't say what these are, but trust me, she's already gotten a few.] So I thought it would be a good opportunity to see how long it takes to travel the entire planet this way! I've already crossed seven districts this week.

[She pulls out another device, which looks like a tablet, and starts tapping on it.]

If my calculations are correct, I should be able to do an entire loop of the planet in the next three days. [Glancing up at the communicator again, she nods her head definitively. This is absolutely her plan for the week.] If anyone would like to join me, I'd be glad for the company. I can let you know the next station I'll be at.

Otherwise, I'd like to hear what you've seen here that surprises you. I could mention so many more things - but I'm sure I'm not the only one.

Comments

[aspearing]

From what you say, I have no doubts that it's lovely, and that you have a great amount of pride in it, as well. [ A beat. ] The way you describe it... It almost reminds me of Glenwood. Were you able to travel a great deal there, then?

[hylights]

I was. It was more for necessity than pleasure... but I still found much to enjoy about it. There was always something new or beautiful to see.

What is Glenwood like?

[aspearing]

Glenwood is... a rich country full of nature, though divided by two different kingdoms. Still, there's countless places left behind by those who lived before us. While I was there, I... wanted to do everything I could to protect it and those who lived in it.

[hylights]

Those who lived before?

[It sounds like ancient civilisations to Zelda, but she knows she might be drawing from her own experience too much.]

I think that's an admirable goal. You clearly care for your home.

[aspearing]

A knight's duty is to protect the people. It's something my Teacher often told me, and they're words that I still live by to this day.

[hylights]

[The mention of a knight's duty is familiar territory. Zelda nods, understanding.]

That's true. Knights are some of the most steadfast of people in the world.

[aspearing]

Ah, that is true. I believe that could partly be because of what motivates them. Though, I myself have a long way to go.

[hylights]

Are you fairly new to the role?

[aspearing]

Not at all. Does it seem that way?

[hylights]

Oh, no, I don't mean to imply anything. I merely wondered, as in my world those in the army needed to be at least a certain age until they could be recruited.

[aspearing]

I see... That does make sense. I apologize for assuming.

In that case, does someone need to be an adult in your world to be recruited?