Chapter 14
-It is a shame that you have to leave so soon, we just knew each other. I would have loved to be a little while longer with you- the disappointment reflected in her eyes was a sign of the truth in the words of the heir to the throne of Chizeta.
-We would have loved to stay a little longer too my dear- admitted Umi's mom moved by the affection of the young princess - but there are obligations that we can no longer postpone. -
In the spaceport, both women discussed the shortness of the stay and agreed to ways to stay in contact through Umi and possibly coordinate a reunion once the commitments of both parties allow it. It was the midday of the fourth and last day of the Ryuuzaky marriage in Autozam. Being about to board the transporter in charge of moving them to Cephiro, the feelings of departure were close to the surface for all of them.
- Dad, do you really don't want me to accompany you back to Cephiro? - Umi found herself reluctant to be separate from them since she was just beginning to share these secrets with them.
- Darling, I already told to you that it is not necessary, besides you still have things to do here, am I wrong? - Without thinking twice, he did what he always did when he wanted to reassure his daughter, first he gave her a gentle tap on the tip of her nose and once her smile was achieved, he simply cradled her cheek softly. Umi basked in the feeling of his father hand on her face - We will be fine, don't forget that Caldina is traveling with us.
Indeed, the dancer had finished with her duties as an emissary from Ferio and companion of her princess. With Umi back in the technological Autozam, her presence was no longer necessary, so she decided to return to Cephiro as well, where his presence could be useful to the young king, Alcar and Varda in relation to the Chizetan colonists. The departure of the girl's parents that day, only helped her to take this decision, besides, she also missed Larfaga and Ascot.
Needless to say that Umi took this chance to load Caldina with gifts that were to be distributed among their friends of the magical world and her two knights friends, Hikaru and Fuu. There were even two packages intended for Chizetan emissaries. Something similar occurred to the President and his son, whom wanted express their sincerest gratitude for all the attention given to Eagle. As a result, the transporter could have passed through the bedroom or the living room of a jubilant birthday boy.
Geo and Zazu were still finishing arranging everything on the spaceship while on the outside the farewells continued. Silver Vision warmly said his goodbyes to Mr and Mrs Ryuuzaky, promising them that their daughter would be safe and any need would be covered. After of all, he was also a father and he perfectly understood the concerns of Umi's parents.
-The three Magic Knights have done a lot for us and this young lady is someone very dear to me. Rest assured, she will return to you in perfect state - Silver said, paternally placing his imposing hand on Umi's shoulder. If nothing else had worked for reassure Umi's parents, this gesture had undoubtedly achieved it, because it was accompanied by a look so warm that there was no doubt of the affection or his good intentions.
By then the sub-commander and the mechanic were emerging through the doors of the spaceship with everything already inside in place. As soon as amber eyes saw the youngest of the duo, a hand, almost an exact replica of the president's hand, indicated the youngest to come towards him. Geo wasn't surprised by this, only saw the two of them wondering what were up to. The two of them had been at least three days with a very mysterious attitude, whatever it was, they have just abandoned all reservations while discussing their secret in that place, no doubt he would find out everything very soon. Knowing that it seemed better for him to go to the father of his commander and the travelers to announce that everything was ready to depart.
As he approached the group with determined step, his eyes could not avoid see Tatra, who at those moments laughed happily with Caldina. He had no idea what had caused such a reaction from the princess, no doubt some of the very accurate and funny comments of the dancer, honestly, he did not care, the only thing that got his attention was the bright smile of the princess, that and how light and full his laugh sounded. Realizing his distraction, he shook his head to clear his mind, right now, however small, he had an obligation to fulfill.
-Sir, everything is ready for depart- he said with a back perfectly upright, heels together, the respective military salute and a face that evoked respect where you look.
-Perfect, thank you Geo - he replied along with an educated nod after that he redirected all his attention towards the travelers -The moment arrived –Silver extended his hand cordially towards Umi's father.
-Indeed is time - he said as he closed his hand on the President.
The gesture was made twice more after that and was replicated several times for the rest of presents there, including a certain blonde man and his young friend. Briefly, but wholeheartedly, the President wished them a good trip and promised both Caldina and Umi's parents keep them aware of the situation. The Ryuuzaky would receive that news through Hikaru or Fuu, but not they cared, the important thing was that they would be aware of their daughter activities. They just had to be patient.
-That is not going to be necessary anymore - Eagle had gone ahead, staying next to her father and now facing his questioning look - Along with Zazu, we prepared something that we hope will be of the Ryuuzaky liking.
In a few seconds, the fifteen-year-old was side by side with his superior and in his hands displayed a metal case that received curious glances. The boy quickly lifted the lid of the box, revealing two interesting artifacts that easily fit in the palm of the hand.
-Transmitters - began to explain - especially designed to be able communicate from one dimension to another. One is for Umi's parents and the other one for Umi.
-Very well thought son. Well done - The President spoke.
-Don't give me so much credit - Eagle replied - I had the idea, but it was Zazu who make it possible.
-It was nothing really – the young boy said, somewhat embarrassed - The only thing I did was modify voice communicators. I would have liked to turn them into an audiovisual communication device, but that required more experimentation and we were short in time.
-With what you have done is more than enough - was the moving response of Mr. Ryuuzaky, who after leaving his transmitter in the hands of his wife, shook affectionately the hand of the young mechanic - Really thank you.
After that, two stylized arms at the height of neck surrounded Zazu - Thank you! - Umi said while giving him her best smile and kissed him on the cheek – You truly are a genius.
It was official now, in between all the praise, gratitude and show of affection, the poor boy felt overwhelmed in a way he never imagine to be. Proof of that was his increasingly red face. Still and making use of all his will power, he was able to explain to the grateful couple the operation of the artifact and the care required for its maintenance. It was brought to the attention of everyone how the teenager had created a mechanism in which the transmitters obtained energy thanks to the user's body heat. Without any doubt, this was very smart from the boy. Geo himself expressed words of true admiration toward the teen work, without any of his usual irony. For once, he didn't called Zazu by any nickname like "little one" or something among those lines.
And so, the three travelers finally got on the transporter and started the trip, under the watchful eye of everyone. Once the ship disappeared from sight of all in the spaceport, the whole group set out to leave the place. Silver still had state matters to attend to and that was why he was the first to take his leave faithfully accompanied by his usual escort. As for the young men of the remaining group, both Eagle and Geo had to go to their barracks to receive the files of the new recruits that would be at their charge for the upcoming year. Organization and dispatch the paperwork corresponding to the recruits installation and assignment have to be done. It was not a difficult job, but long and meticulous that demanded full attention and not to be neglected. In Geo's opinion, it was simply a tedious activity, of which it was better to get rid of as soon as possible. He preferred to go to war before work in the mountain of documents that knew, awaited for them. Eagle was not so extreme about it, but nothing came out with denying that deskwork was not his favorite activity. The two wanted to finish that task as soon as possible.
- Shouldn't you eat something before? – Tatra was worried that in their desire to finish quickly, they will end up neglecting their health by not eating properly.
-Do not worry about us - the sub commander began - We will find something in the base, right, Eagle?-
-That is right - he confirmed -The cafeteria in the place stays open late for give service to the maintenance staff and the night watch guards -
-By not mentioning the official poor people who have to face the bureaucracy - added the dark man with a tone of self-pity that had them all on the verge of laughter - In the end - he sighed - we will get our way later on with a good Tea and sweets, and of course a good conversation. - He winked at them – Lets go Commander, I do not want to be late reviewing papers - and without saying he made his way to the slider that would take them to the military base.
-Well, you already heard the man. We will see you later in the usual room. Entertain them until then, Zazu.
-Don't worry about that, you can trust me -said confident while he raised his thumbs.
-Eagle! – Geo was heard from the transport.
-I am going I am going! I had better go before I get my head off – he told the ladies while he walked in Geo's direction with a sure step - Where is your respect for your Commander, Geo? – Those were the last word they heard him say, because Geo soon accommodated him in the transporter before quickly departing.
-We should start moving, too - Zazu said. - Where would you like to go?-
-For the moment, I think any place in which we can have lunch will be good, what do you think Tatra? - The blue haired woman consulted.
-Sound perfect - replied the princess, who was also starting to feel hungry too.
-In that case follow me, I know an excellent place.
They spent a very pleasant time in the company of the young mechanic during their meal. Certainly, the place where he took them to eat was excellent. To begin with, they had a wide variety of dishes and menus that they made the food accessible for all budgets. That and the incredible view towards an ice skating court were the main attractiveness of the restaurant.
The service was quite fast and soon they were in the upper part of the restaurant happily sharing and enjoying the view that stretched below them while eating the food with gusto. They talked of many things, the first theme being the place where they were now. Both women were surprised that with the beautiful view and efficient service the place did not collapse with lots of costumers, to which Zazu explained that this was largely due to the fact that had opened a little over half a year ago, so the place was still making himself known. However, one thing was certain, the place did have their regular customers now since the boy had discovered it months ago, he himself had make sure to do publicity among his acquaintances, which had derived in a good number of soldiers as frequent diners, which is why whenever they saw him, Zazu was very well received.
The rest of the conversation flowed from different concerns and observations, but always returning to the genius and gifted boy. The discussion having to do with the gift that he and Commander had done for Umi and her parents, with particular emphasis on the geniality of the young teen idea. He was not as shy as before, but still, he answered diminishing the importance of the matter grateful for the praise he received from of his two companions.
-It really was nothing – the young said putting behind his head his hand in a nervous gesture – It was thanks to Eagle, he was the one with the idea.
-Yes, but as he said, it was you who made it possible - was reminded by the princess - You really have your position has engineer in machines his fleet justified. You are a truly a young promise! - She assured enthusiastically.
-And a promise that works fast - emphasized the blue haired girl – ready and tested in less than four days. I hope Eagle didn't have you working under a whip or worse - she teased.
-Of course not! - He said on the verge of laughter - As I told you, it was him who gave me the idea, even before you came back.
-How is that? - Without intending to, Zazu had aroused an enormous curiosity in her.
-When you left, he complained about being able to contact Lantis, Guru Clef and the rest of the people in Cephiro without any problem if he wanted to, but could not do nothing with the three of you (referring to the knights), unless it was through third parties. That had me thinking about how to create a signal that was capable to cross the dimensional barrier and at the same time to transmit something more than static by the time you arrived I had already a general idea and made some tests already, so Eagle's nighttime request did not catch me with empty hands.
- Did he ask you that very night?
-Yes. As you would have been the only one of the three knights with no possibility of direct communication with your family, he was worried of you being nostalgic when your parents left and wanted at all costs that the transmitters were ready before their departure.
-Wow! I didn't think that he would worry so much about that.
Of course you matter to him a lot. Tatra thought for herself, you have no idea of the influence that you exercise on his state of mind.
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Meanwhile, two officers were still sitting in front of a diminished, but still considerable amount of documents. They already had a considerable time in said activity.
-I have never understood why must be deliver all this paperwork by noon - Geo grumbled, face submerged on the current folder – it would be much better if they did this in the morning.
In response, he got a desolate sigh - Neither do I, but there is nothing we can do – replied the blond man turning around the page of the report he had in his hands at the moment - Complaining doesnot help us in anything, better to focus on our work, we have much less already.
-Yes, it is not convenient to be distracted – agreed Geo while closing the current folder after having read it meticulously he then proceeded to leave it in a green file cabinet, which was the one Eagle had assigned for soldiers with certain characteristics, then closed cabinet after making sure it was in alphabetical order.
Meanwhile Eagle saw the needs of each of the units under his command and the availability of officers to train the novices. Depending on that and of the groups that Geo was forming, the young graduates of the academy would be assigned to their right post. Once this was done, what remained was the easy part: fill out forms according to the information on the resumes and their subsequent dispatch.
His part of the work was almost ready and his friend was moving quickly with the records and filing cabinets. If they keep this step, within a maximum of three or four hours they would have ended their work. Something that without a doubt their necks and legs would appreciate. How he hated to stand still for so long!
-I will go find something to eat - Geo announced, standing up and filing a folder - Do you want something?
Eagle looked at him smiling - Another canned drink, the same as always - and with that, the Sub-Commander went out the door towards the vending machine.
-I wonder what Tatra would say now about our eating habits - has he directed his eyes to the garbage, where they had already thrown many food containers and drinks. A funny grin appeared on his lips – Probably a sermon by filling our bodies with unnecessary calories. Oh well, It is not as if we eat junk food all the time! - and true to his word, they had actually gone through the cafeteria from the premises, where they had a light lunch and barely chatted to get soon to the commander's office. However, what seemed like a good idea initially, it had proven to have its cons. After a while, the thirst reached their throats and as the clock progressed, the effect of being full by the food was disappearing and the consequences remained evident by just looking at the trashcan.
-They instead ... surely Zazu took them to that place that he had done publicity. What an envy! - Of course he was envious, they were eating delicious food, while they were in an office working instead of enjoying the wonderful view, food and company. However, what he felt the most, although now he was not fully aware of it, it was that Zazu was in the company of Umi and he did not. He had no hard feelings towards his young friend, but to tell the truth, he was feeling a little bit disappointed because of her effusive embrace towards the boy after he presented such gift to her and her parents. Is not as if he was expecting something ostentatious from her in gratitude, but it would not have bothered him to also receive a hug, quite the contrary, it would have made him happy.
His stomach growled and he frowned. Only he could be thinking in food when there were still some good hours before they could eat something decent. Better to focus on the reports on his desk because of what he could heard, Geo was already returning and he wouldn't have liked to be busted daydreaming instead of finishing with the folders. Much less if his daydreaming had something to do with food!
With the firm determination of not to getting up from his chair until after the tower of documents has disappeared he immersed himself again in a new report. After giving his drink to Eagle, give a good bite to his own cookie and returned to his job without further ado. Both sets of eyes passed carefully by figures and words, attentive to the smallest detail, analyzing everything what was relevant. With so much dedication, two hours and twenty-five minutes later, they had finished with their review and distribution.
- Very good, Commander Vision - said a satisfied brunet once the work was concluded - now, please kindly fill out these forms and sign them - He handed a pen to Eagle, whom proceeded to complete the information with the data that he Geo was dictating.
An hour and a half later, Zazu received a call from Geo on his communicator, telling him that they had finally finished.
-Where are you? We are dying to meet you and eat something like normal people do.
-Where do you think? On the skating court of course.
-The big one that you can see from the restaurant? - There was some excitement in his voice.
-Where else?
-Perfect! We will be there in a few minutes - He ended the communication enthusiastically.
Eagle didn't have time to ask if the restaurant was the same one that he heard from Zazu, Geo himself and some officers, because as soon as the communication ended, the sub-commander grabbed him by the arm forcing him to start a furious race to the transporter. Even for Eagle, whom was able to run at high speed and react fast, the energy of the brunet sub-commander was too much. It was a miracle that after being dragged that way, he didn't end thrown in one of the corridors by those who passed or slipping on the stairs that welcomed the base. Whatever it was, the important thing is that they were already on the way.
Once there, the first one to go down (practically rushing out the door) was Geo. Eagle imitated him a few seconds later, leaning slightly on the doorframe for it. His friend's driving had not been imprudent, but faster than usual, not to mention the indelicate way in which he had ended up occupying his seat. Definitely, something was against him enjoying sitting in that particular day.
With both feet on the ground, he stretched. It felt so good. Recovered already after the precipitation of the trip, he followed Geo, whose sight had already saw the trio by then. A single call of the voice of the dark, plus his hand raised on high, were enough to catch the attention of their friends soon after, they went to meet the hungry people.
Tatra, immediately noticing the fatigue of both and sensing that although fed should not be quite full (something in the way that Geo saw the children eat sweets gave him away), suggested they go to the restaurant to eat and talk. For the first time in the day, the Commander didn't dislike the idea of sitting down. He could hardly resist, with that view and the prospect of a good meal instead of a desk full of folders, filing cabinets and forms.
Cake, coffee, tea, biscuits, sandwiches, typical dishes, desserts and salads ... That was paradise! No wonder the place was so popular. With such a good menu and the pleasant company of his three friends, the two officers did not take long to feel replenished and with enough energy to enjoy the ice activity that was offered to them. Therefore, after giving a generous tip and filled with thanks to the staff of the establishment, they went to skate.
In a blink of an eye, all of them were with the skates on and already in the ice. Everyone except Tatra. According to her, it was enough for her just to observe them from while being sitting near, the others were not happy with this, but they could not do nothing to force her, so they let her do as she pleased. After fifteen minutes on the ice ring and seeing that she watched them resigned, Geo decided to make her change her mind.
-Geo, I already told you that I am fine - she tried to dissuade him.
- Come on, princess! Do not try to make me believe that YOU stay out of this is OK for you. I have been watching you for more than ten minutes and your face does not reflect happiness precisely. Why do not you join us?
-I am better here, believe me - knowing that his words were true, she avoided looking at him directly.
Geo sighed. Apparently it would not be easy to convince her, but he would not give up so easily - Well then, you would not mind if I stay here with you – and despite her surprised look, he sat down next to her.
- It is not necessary, seriously! - He just watched her with a disguised smile threatening to appear on his lips.
- No, but I like it here - he assured her, then he became complete serious - Or does my presence and the others bother you? Is that why you prefer to be alone?
-No no. Of course not - she denied - It's just that ice is not my element - she confessed.
-Don't tell me you are scared – now HE was interested, seeing as she did not seem kin to answer him Geo continued -Tatra, I saw you perform amazing pirouettes and climb a huge tree the day you rescued that girl. After all that, you have nothing to fear from a frozen track -
-I would like to remind you that Chizeta is not exactly what you might call a winter place.
He smiled sympathetically - Even so, that's no reason for you to stay alone here - He got up and extended his hand for her - Let's try it, If someone so high as myself is able to maintain balance on a slippery surface, anyone can do it – he reassured her.
So much was the insistence and security in his words that she ended taking the offered hand. She would not have had the heart to leave him hanging there with his extended hand while she remained indifferent, not with that good-boy face and the genuine concern for her reflected in his gaze. So there she was, in the court with ice skates, without having very clear what to do with his legs and arms so as not to end up on the floor. Luckily, the brunette was by her side the whole time, ready to hold her in case of her falling.
-See? It is not so difficult.
She just laughed - Tell me that when I can take more than four steps without wobbling – while grabbing his arm in order to keep her balance – Tata would love to see this. I must look ridiculous!.
-Come on, you are not so bad - he tried to motivate her while holding her by her shoulders. She used this as support to get straight again without losing her balance.
-You said so bad!
-God if you are stubborn - he admired – Come on your highness, it is your first time. Surely, you are not waiting to be an expert from one second to another, right? Give yourself some time. - Tatra just smiled at him.
The scene had been watched with secret interest on Eagle's part with a knowing a smile on his lips. There were definitely great possibilities for something to begin there. Still smiling and with the idea of giving them a little more "space" he began to slide, getting deeper and deeper on the track. Truth be told, he liked the movement, the freedom it gave, the sensation that caused to feel his heart beating and driving blood through his whole body. How can he not enjoy it?
It was true that there was no wind inside the cities of Autozam, but still there was air and at Eagle's speed, his hair moved as if being stirred by the wind. This was what Umi saw, agile, full of life and wasting energy even for the eyes. It was really something worth seeing and for a while, she stared at him, completely ignorant of anything outside him.
-Umi! - Zazu, called her quickly passing by her side -What happened? I thought that you were going to show me how good a skater you are - there was no real mockery on his words, but they do were something provocative.
-And that is exactly what I will do, Zazu! - And shot out to reach him.
With that race that quickly turned into play and laughter, it was the turn of the commander to see in action the skills and the grace of the young warrior. He was fascinated, almost unable to believe the ease of movement she possessed. She had such elegance that at times he almost forgot that he was in presence of an expert on the sword ways. She looked so sure of herself and at the same time so fragile, the effect of her hair dancing in the air only accentuated her figure. He was hypnotized.
By the time he noticed, his legs had already begun to propel him towards them and far from startled by that, he gave more impulse to his movements. He passed through them like a quick gust of wind and although he was smiling, something in his eyes spoke of a silent challenge that did not go unnoticed for the other two. In a matter of seconds, the three competed among themselves in terms of speed and dexterity, before the curious and admired looks of the people with whom they shared the huge court. This situation could have continue indefinitely if it were not for the child prodigy whom eventually got tired and have to give up their game.
-What is wrong Zazu? - Umi asked, looking at him with a mix of amused and worried look as soon he stopped abruptly.
-Yeah, what's wrong?. - Eagle continued, stopping next to the girl - I thought you were full of energy
-I was - he remarked - but against you two, it is no use, both of you have too long legs for me to catch up with - after saying that he leaned on his legs, trying to catch his breath – I will go to Geo and Tatra, at least they do not burn my legs
They saw him walk away at a safely moderate pace and with a fixed course. The Commander heard a weak giggle coming from her friend's lips and his own lips curled almost imperceptibly.
-I hope that the sub-commander receives him with a good face – he commented lightly
-Why do yo say that? - She asked – is it for that admiration of which you spoke about?
-That and that he was very insistent with the idea of not leaving her alone and teaching her to skate.
-Maybe, but you don't think you're exaggerating? He does it out of kindness and a genuine interest in her, that is all.
-And how exactly do you think relationships start? He asked raising the eyebrow.
-Good point - she acknowledged - But still, I do not think he has to treat badly Zazu because of that
-I hope you are right. Finding people with Zazu's skills is not exactly easy - he teased.
-You are so mean! - She laughed.
-You know that I take the commander deep inside me - he winked at her – should we continue skating?
-Okay, but can we take things more slowly? - she asked.
-Are you tired too?
- No, but if we do not stop for a while we both will be. I also want to enjoy the view, with so much competition I had barely paid attention to my surroundings.
-Very good - he conceded.
So they went back to skating, but more calmly, side by side their hands almost touching product of the proximity. Any external observer would have confused them with a couple, something that as Eagle noted, it would have been nothing weird, after the entire place was full of them. Belief that only would increase if she delicately took his hand.
That contact took him completely by surprise, almost to the point of releasing an exclamation. Her skin was soft and from the exercise exuded a nice warmth. Sooner than later, he found himself enjoying the gesture. Still the question "why?" It was written all over his face.
-I had no chance to thank you before- she explained.
- What for?
-The gift to my parents and me.
-Oh, that - He took the hand he had free to the back of his head scratching nervously - It was nothing, really
-Oh, it was something! - She said - I do appreciate it - she said softly, her face full of gratitude.
-You are welcome - He closed his hand around hers with almost the same delicacy as the first contact.
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Three weeks followed with the same nice atmosphere, at the end of which the commander was fully recovered, to the eyes of everyone. The only sad news that came with that good news was that both, Umi and Tatra would have to leave for Cefiro. How would they miss their relaxing time skating with them, which after that afternoon had become one of their greatest delights.
Now it was time to return to reality and resume in fully the activities that his position demanded and that had been affected by his health. Of course, that would not prevent him from enjoying the company of them in their last night on the planet. As a farewell, they had been invited to a certain restaurant that had become his favorite.
With their stomachs full and their spirits held high, they decided to retire skating together for the last time. Tatra's skating skills were still hesitant, which was why both Zazu and Geo remained very close to her in case of an eventual accident. Under those conditions, the track remained practically free for Umi e Eagle, who did not miss the opportunity for a final race and a relaxed conversation while skating slowly their way back to the others.
-The next time I come back, I hope to see you in good condition for you to participate in a combat.
-I will invite you to the next competition, but in return, I want to see your Fencing tournament.
-Done.
They shared a few moments of pleasant silence until Umi finally decided to ask a question that had worried her for several days.
-Eagle ... do you think I should tell him once I am back at Cephiro?
He did not need to ask what or whom. He knew it perfectly.
-That depends - although he did not say it, he was slightly upset by the appearance of Guru Clef in their last solo conversation - do you want to tell him?
-I would take a huge weight off me.
-Doesn't matter if his reaction is not what you expect? He asked worriedly he did not want her to be hurt.
-That cannot happen, simply because I have no expectations about it – she confessed to him - I do not expect anything and if there were a positive response, believe me is not a burning reciprocity of feelings. How can it be if I am not even sure of mine?
He stared at her and weighed his next words.
She was almost sure that he must have been feeling sorry for her, which did not please her at all. However, nothing was farther from the truth.
-You will be fine if you do it. You are much more mature and strong than you think - He smiled gently to her - And in case things go wrong, you know you can count with me - He winked.
Yes, she knew it. She knew that he would always be there if she needed it. He was too much loyal to his friends and they two already were. No wonder the invasion of Cephiro made him suffer so much. What she clearly ignored was the level of affection she had awakened in him. Eagle felt an immense desire to protect her even if she did not need his protection, he wanted to be there for her. Slowly the feelings of friendship were giving way to others deep inside of him and this time, Eagle was very aware of that. At that moment, he was not interested in Guru Clef's rank, nor how good a person he was, the only important thing was Umi.
"Better not make her suffer more than necessary," he thought as they went back skating side by side.
TBC...