The Bluebird in the Imperial Capital XIII

Helena liked how someone—or two—would often come for a visit. Sometimes even a whole lot would come, all the familiar faces she treasured, the friends she had made in this faraway land. Helena cherished the moments when she could see them, no matter how short or long. Whenever they made their presence known, she would drop what she was doing to welcome them by the door, so she could see them coming—because they were always so happy to see her, just as she was delighted to see them.

Among them, Atago was always the most candid. Whenever they met, she would always forgo decorum and restraint, bursting through the door with arms wide open and calling out her name like a song. Her carefree disposition was just like her sister over the seas—and that's why Helena welcomed it, even though Atago's affections left her overwhelmed sometimes. The ever-stern Takao would often be close behind, ready to chastise Atago whenever she went overboard—which she would always respond to with a pout, but only for a fleeting moment, as Helena noticed. Despite that, Takao always smiled at her, no matter what—just like her sister.

And then Hiei, too, would come at times. Every time she did, Helena could expect to see her bringing some kind of cooking ingredient with her. Every time there would be a new dish for her to learn, many she had never known before. She would always make sure to keep her sight on every step Hiei would patiently show her. She had failed many times before—but whenever she looked at Hiei to apologize, she would see her gentle smile telling her to try again.

More often than not, Laffey and Ayanami would tag along. Sometimes they would help, but most of the time, they were content to simply watch. Helena liked seeing how their usually placid countenance would light up in wonder and admiration—and the anticipation of good food.

In a way, they were like a family to her. But if she saw them as sisters, having Mikasa around was a wholly different matter. Her visits were rare, and it would always feel like having a mother coming to visit. A mother who would fuss over you but one who was also ready to impart sage advice. Helena always admired the worldly smile Mikasa would show whenever she showed up—one that a person who had learned and seen many things would have. She admired Mikasa's modesty—despite her position and experience, she always came with no pomp. Her steps were always relaxed. She would greet her like someone she had known for so long.

And when everyone had left, the house would turn quiet and still again, and she would be alone once more. But that didn't trouble her anymore. Because then she could wait for another person she held dear to come home. And when they eventually reunited, when she saw that person coming through the door—everything would feel alright again.