2010 a.t.b

"Quite impressive, Guilford," Cornelia praised as the two ended their training session for the day. It was apparent that Guilford's skill had greatly improved. He was able to fight Cornelia-and win often enough.

Through their time spent together, Guilford had come to realize that Cornelia was a complicated woman. It seemed as though she enjoyed exploiting his weaknesses and pointing out his faults, yet her training had benefited him in ways he could never have imagined. He was quite grateful, yet unable to determine any other emotions he felt toward the Princess. He knew other emotions were present, however. That fact was clearly undeniable.

"I am indebted to you, of course, Princess," he said, bowing deeply.

"We are hoping to put your skills to good use," she said, "You've no doubt heard of the war brewing with Japan. You will be deployed shortly, that I can guarantee."

"Is it still anticipated to be an easy victory?" he asked, curiously. Cornelia raised an eyebrow. Guilford had never attempted to make real conversation with her, because of his uneasiness, so her questioning look was quite understandable.

"Yes," she responded slowly. "There is talk of not even using the Knightmares, though I believe the tactic would be foolish." She paused before continuing. "I wasn't aware the battle with Japan interested you."

"If I am to be used in Japan, as you say I will, I should like to know the circumstances I face," Guilford replied dutifully. Cornelia's usually solemn face broke out into a slow smile.

"Quite the conditioned soldier," she said with a small laugh. "You will make a good soldier, Guilford. You have everything it takes."

"Once again, thanks to you, Princess," he replied.

"No," she said, taking his hand gently. "You had all the makings of a valiant soldier before I even met you." At first, Guilford was uneasy with Cornelia's touch. Perhaps it was with the initial surprise of contact with her. As Cornelia's fingers rested upon his, there was a pleasantly numbing warmth spreading from his hand, up his arm.

"Thank you, Princess," he said softly, once Cornelia released his hand. "I shall use the skills you have taught me well, I promise you this," he bowed curtly.

"Guilford," Cornelia said, changing the subject, "Have you given any thought to the graduation ceremony?"

"The graduation ceremony?" He asked, repeating her words.

"You've heard of it, yes?" she asked, laughing slightly. Guilford nodded. "And your guest?"

"I suppose I haven't given much thought to it," he said, sheepishly. Cornelia was finally starting to relax around him. It was odd, yet it felt completely natural at the same time.

"Guilford, the ceremony is in a week," she said, mock sternness in her voice. "That gives your guest rather short notice, does it not?"

"Perhaps you should be my guest then, Princess," he said. The words were out of his mouth before he could stop them. Immediately, he was mortified. Cornelia seemed to be slightly taken aback as well. "You're attending anyway, correct?" He added, as an attempt to make his invitation more casual and less gauche.

"You're turning out to be more of a strategist than you thought you would," she said with a small laugh. "Very well, Guilford. I shall be your guest."

"I am honored, Princess," he said, bowing. He hadn't realized he was holding his breath, until that moment. In fact, he wasn't entirely sure what had just happened. He hadn't had very many conversations with Cornelia. In fact, other than critiquing his battle strategies, Cornelia rarely spoke to him. He was unsure what this new development between the two of them meant, but his heart was light. For the first time in a long time, he was genuinely happy.