A week later, in the recreation garden at G-10 Base in the New World.
Gern lay sprawled on his back on the grass without a shred of dignity, effortlessly lifting little Bonney high into the air and drawing a string of silvery giggles from her.
"Fly me higher! A little higher, Uncle Gern!"
As Gern obliged, he sighed with exaggerated world-weariness. "Ah, our little Bonney is still so adorable.
"Tesoro's girl used to cling to me like this, too.
"Now that she's grown up, all she cares about is music and fashion. She thinks this old uncle is boring..."
Before Gern finished speaking, a somewhat exasperated voice came from the garden entrance.
"Admiral Gern, children grow up.
"Especially girls. Besides, your Toritoma was the one who got her into those hobbies."
Tesoro walked over in a well-fitted suit. Seeing Gern playing with Bonney like an overgrown child, without any airs at all, he let out his customary sigh.
Then he bent down and spoke gently to little Bonney.
"Bonney, Lipo made your favorite rainbow pudding and animal cookies in the dining hall. She's been looking everywhere for you."
"Really? Lipo's the best!" The little girl's attention was immediately captured by the treats.
With a cheer, Bonney slipped out of Gern's arms and pattered away on her little legs.
Only after that tiny figure disappeared around a corner of the garden
did Gern lazily roll over and prop himself up on one elbow, half reclining on the ground. He looked up listlessly at Tesoro. "Say, Tesoro, what is it this time?
"This month's budget reports, supply lists, personnel transfers...
"I remember dutifully taking care of every document that needed my signature~
"Can't you let an 'old man' enjoy his retirement... no, his downtime between combat duties?"
The corner of Tesoro's mouth