"Then where do I sign up?" the young man asked again.
The Marine Soldier on duty glanced at him again and asked in return, "Friend, what do you think I'm standing here for?"
The young man's gaze darkened slightly. "Sentry duty..."
"Exactly." The Marine Soldier on Sentry Duty smiled and nodded. "I'm just a sentry. How would I know what the higher-ups have arranged? Why don't you... go ask at Marine Headquarters?"
The young man's expression changed for an instant, and he retorted, "Do you think I'm stupid? If I went into Marine Headquarters, that would be trespassing. I'd be an intruder, and they'd arrest me."
The Marine Soldier on duty nodded lightly, as though seriously considering the logic of his words. "Hmm... fair point."
The young man did not give up. "Then could you go inside and ask for me?"
"Uh...? Friend, who do you think I am? I'm just a lousy sentry. I'd get shot for leaving my post without permission." The Marine Soldier on Sentry Duty looked helpless.
Tap, tap, tap, tap~~~
Suddenly.
From inside the Marine Base, the sound of synchronized footsteps drew closer.
The Marine Soldier on duty hurriedly waved at the young man and lowered his voice. "Friend, stand to the side. Don't block the way."
The young man glanced at the approaching formation inside, then stepped aside.
After the orderly formation marched out through the main gate, a little while passed before an officer wearing a Coat of Justice emerged, with a Marine Soldier accompanying him on either side.
The Marine Soldier on duty immediately stood at attention and saluted, calling out loudly, "Good day, Vice Admiral Zephyr!"
"Mm," Zephyr acknowledged, continuing forward without stopping.
The young man's gaze lingered on Zephyr for a moment before he called out, "Vice Admiral Zephyr, I