One day ago ~In Alveare~

"We'll give you six hours to prepare your death."

In a room with simple decorations, a boy was surrounded by a group of men with solemn faces.
"... Any response so far?"
A man with glasses smilingly looked into the boy's eyes.
"Well, I don't know what for but this room makes me feel apologetic right now..."
The boy murmured nervously. He did not expect every executive staff in the Organization¹ to be present at once. Just what horrible deed could he have committed?
"Um... did I do any...?"
"Indeed, for countless amounts."
A man with dignified air answered in a low voice.
"Captain... no way, there must be a mistake somewhere. I don't recall anything that..."
"All I need is a word to shatter that confident look of yours. Understand?"
"S-sure, please enlighten me..."
With a strange expression, the boss finally revealed what he had in mind.
"Go buy a hat with Maiza tomorrow."
A moment of silence. While watching the quiet applause of two other staff - the secretary and the Asian elder - the boy finally understood.
"Oh... don't tell me...!"
A big, childish grin conquered his face.
"You've earned it with your distinguished services."
To shop for a hat with an executive staff. Such event held an extremely significant meaning in the Organization.
"Congratulations on your promotion."
The man with glasses approached the boy in great delight.
"Tomorrow morning, I shall see you in front of the hat store..."

footnote

¹ See Martillo Family for more details.