When he woke up this morning, Bell did not expect to be in this... incredibly uncomfortable situation. Ryoma practically came knocking at the break of dawn. Not that Bell minded. Farm life, as well as Kojiro believing in starting early in terms of training, made sure that he was up and ready with ease. At first Bell thought everything was going to be fine today. After all, Ryoma seemed rather relaxed despite the kidnapping plot and what not, so he assumed there was only good news. And in a way, Bell wasn't exactly wrong.
He just didn't expect the "good" news being told in the very same walled mansion that he and Kojiro got kicked out of previously. Here he was, a boy with barely any education or social standing, kneeling uncomfortably in a room that probably cost more than all the money Bell had ever seen in his life. Wooden floors so smooth he couldn't believe it could've possibly been made from trees. Scrolls and artwork that were distinct in the Far East were covering the walls in an organized manner. Vases, statues, all sorts of things to flaunt one's status, to highlight the one sitting on the ornate pillow. The Renard who was the head of the Sanjouno clan, with his wife and daughter to his side. A pointy beard that almost glowed with its yellow color as a hand stroked it. A pure white kimono with not a speck of imperfection on it. His wife was equally regal, a mask of politeness, her red lips glistening just like her pony tail.
Then there was the target in question. Sanjouno Haruhime. Bell made sure not to stare at her and tried his best to keep his face cool. Gawking at the beautiful girl was most likely not a good thing to do in front of her very influential parents. Still, he couldn't help but notice that she seemed a bit disheveled. Her red kimono looked fine and her long hair was clean as well. But the bags underneath her eyes weren't lying. She must have been stressed out and he couldn't fault her. Still, as he let his eyes wander, his attention came to the white petite woman in the room.
White was the only way to really describe her. She was unbelievably pale, as if her skin was made of snow. Which was ironic because she practically radiated warmth. Maybe it had something to do with the red circle markings she had on her white outfit or her skin, but he knew there was more to it. She noticed his starings, sending him a cheeky, sharp smile and a wink, her canine ears twitching happily. Bell cleared his throat and lowered his head. Ah, how embarrassing. Was this what the aura of a goddess was like?
"I give my thanks to you, Outsiders. Were it not for your timely warning, the Sanjouno might've been disgraced," the head announced, nodding his head in appreciation.
"It-it's fine! Just did what everyone would've done!"
He could feel the stares directed at him. A small frown. A look of surprise, mouth covered with the hem of their clothing. A barely restrained giggle. Bell could feel his face heat up and lowered his head again. What did he say wrong?! Grandpa always said those lines worked! It was supposed to make a good impression on people! Fortunately for him, the head of the clan seemed to let it slide with a huff.
"Hm. Nevertheless, I shall show the gratitude of our clan by offering you a place to stay in this territory of ours," he said in a neutral tone, eyeing them. Bell could feel his chest get heavier. Stay at such a nice place? There was no way he could do that! However, before he could make a mistake or the right thing, he would never know, Kojiro lowered his head to the ground, graceful in his movements.
"You have our thanks."
Clumsily, Bell mimicked the motion, wishing that he could just leave but knowing he couldn't. The head hummed in thought crossing his arms with a frown.
"Peacemaker. Any leads on who is threatening the good name of our family?"
For a moment, Bell had no idea who he meant. Then he followed his gaze and realized he meant Ryoma. The young man's eyes sparkled. That was such a cool name! For some reason, Ryoma seemed to twitch for a moment before sighing, shaking his head with his hat on his lap.
"Not quite. The smuggler hasn't been informed about the details. He cared more about... the job than the job giver, so to say."
The audience frowned at the same time. That was inconvenient, to say the least. The patriarch voiced their thoughts, huffing in displeasure.
"I suppose we need to increase security once more."
"What about the tour?" Ryoma asked politely. But for some reason, he received a small glare by the Renard. To the former's credit, he didn't even flinch.
"Know your place, Peacemaker. Do not question the Sanjouno honor. An agreement is an agreement. This is a mere delay. We will not be intimidated by such foolish actions," he announced, voice filled with pride and a small growl behind it. Ryoma lowered his head respectfully, a smile still in place.
"Apologies. I meant no disrespect."
"See that you find the culprits fast." The patriarch turned to the goddess. To Bell's shock, he rose, looking down on her, his back straightening even more as he exuded authority. "The same goes to you, Amaterasu."
If the goddess was offended by this blatant power play, she didn't show it. Casually, she waved her hand dismissively with a smirk.
"Yes, yes, my people are on it."
The Renard clicked his tongue before shaking his head. Hiding his hands behind his back he nodded at everyone.
"This meeting is over. Make sure that none can insult us any further."
Without a second word, he left. His wife and daughter followed him immediately, though the latter was more hesitant. Haruhime closed her eyes for just a moment and sighed. As she left as well, Bell couldn't help but frown a bit.
Why didn't her father say anything regarding his daughter specifically? It bothered Bell, the way Haruhime almost seemed used to having her existence ignored. Judging from the conflicted expressions of Ryoma and Amaterasu, this was a common occurrence. But why? He thought back to how his Grandpa acted with him. Was nobility always so... cold? He pressed his lips together. That wasn't right. Not at all.
Still, he was glad the man left. The air was already lighter by now. Ryoma put his hat back on, a wry expression on his face as he turned to the goddess who rolled her eyes in exasperation.
"Again and again, I'm surprised at his audacity to treat a goddess like this."
"Eh, I find it refreshing. In a weird, annoying way." She groaned as she stretched her back and arms. "Well, no rest for the wicked." Jumping up and bouncing a few times on her feet, she hummed when she turned to Bell and Kojiro. As the two blinked in confusion, she giggled and raised her finger, pointing at herself. "Want a Falna from me?"
Bell had to process the words for a moment, too sudden to grasp immediately. Then his eyes widened and he pointed at himself in shock.
"Eeeeeh?!"
At his reaction, the goddess laughed, patting his head with a wide grin. Bell blushed even more. This was embarrassing! Especially with someone that was just a bit smaller than him!
"Ahahahaha, no need to rush it! Just let me know if you decided to stay more permanently! Door's always open, kiddo!"
With those words, she hopped away, her tail wagging and hiding her rather visible thi-
Bell cut that line of thought short with a blush and shook his head, wincing as he stood upon his numb legs. She felt more motherly than anything, so impure thoughts were forbidden, no matter how much he imagined Grandpa yell at him to 'take the shot'. Instead, he focused on the offer. A blessing. Most people would jump at the chance. But... it required to stay in the Far East. Did he really want that?
"Young master, are you coming?"
"Ah, yes!" He hurried after the two adults after Kojiro's question. Closing the paper door behind them, they casually began to stroll through the premise, the hallways being open to the air for some reason. Not that he minded. The gardeners in this place maintained the flush green with much careful attention. For a country that was known for its famine, it was surprising to say the least.
Suddenly, Kojiro coughed, a choked chuckle escaping him. Ryoma and Bell turned to him in confusion. With a teasing smile, he raised an eyebrow at Ryoma.
"Peacemaker?"
The local in question flinched. Bell wasn't sure why the man gave Kojiro an annoyed look, as if this was a joke that was dragged on too long. Not that there was a joke Bell could see, the name was awesome!
"I did not choose it, Mr. Tsubame Gaeshi," Ryoma grumbled. Kojiro shrugged nonchalantly while Bell's eyes began to sparkle. Tsubame Gaeshi? That sounded cool too! With an excited nod, he smiled brightly at Ryoma.
"I mean, it is a name given by the gods! It sounds so cool!"
Ryoma almost stumbled over, causing Bell to worry. Was the floor uneven? It was unlikely, given the effort shown to maintain this place. Fortunately, the man caught himself, though he was holding his shirt for some reason, eyes closed almost in resignation.
"...Yes. So cool."
Kojiro cleared his throat before Bell could inquire what was wrong.
"So where is your lovely wife anyway? She usually never leaves your side. It's been bothering me since we met," he asked, arms crossed as he looked around. Bell's eyes widened. Ryoma was married?! His eyes immediately wandered to his gloves. But there was no ring. Then again, maybe the Far East had different marriage cultures? Still, he felt warm in his heart when he saw Ryoma blush a bit. He scratched his cheek before coughing into his knuckle.
"Oh, she mellowed out. It took awhile but she's taken to living a mortal life quite well. She's currently with some of the Hachiman and Amaterasu Familia, dealing with some monsters outside."
"Any frogs?" Kojiro asked, in the same tone when they first met, the 'inside joke' tone. Ryoma snorted in amusement, waving his hand dismissively.
"I'm certain by now they are all but extinct."
"Hahahahaha!" Kojiro threw his head back, holding his stomach. Then, after wiping a tear off, he wiggled his eyebrows a bit. "Any future children incoming?"
At once, Bell and Ryoma turned red like tomatoes. The former spluttered, immediately avoiding eye contact, while the latter lowered his hat a bit, in a futile attempt to hide his expression.
"N-no, not at all." He sighed wistfully, staring at the ground as his voice turned quieter and more exhausted. "Not for a lack of trying on her part... "
Bell whimpered. Grandpa... explained to him how... how a family was made. While the idea of having children was nice, Bell wasn't sure if he could ever do the "deed" without passing out. The details involved were terrifying to say the least.
"Maybe when things are less hectic we can have a proper drink," Ryoma said, having recovered from Kojiro's merciless attacks. Patting the man on the back, he gave him a pointed look. "Try to not create a commotion."
"Me? Never," Kojiro said dramatically, pretending to sound offended as he put a hand on his chest. Ryoma wasn't having any of that and gestured with his head to where they came from.
"You did notice how Lord Sanjouno-"
"Did not like us whatsoever, yes."
"Wait, really?" Bell asked. The two adults turned to him, raising eyebrows at his surprise. In response, he just tilted his head. Sure, he seemed rather prideful, but actively disliking them? Wasn't that a bit over the top? As if reading his mind, Kojiro sighed.
"If you feel real gratitude, you'd bow properly."
"...Should we really stay here?" Bell asked in worry. He didn't know enough about Far Eastern culture to refute Kojiro's point. And now that he thought about it, he wouldn't be surprised. The way the territory rejected any sort of outsiders, the way he was borderline obsessed with their reputation... He felt a soft grip on his shoulder. Looking up, he saw Ryoma smile at him reassuringly, patting him a few times.
"It's fine. If nothing else, he is honor bound." They came to a stop at a cross section. Ryoma tipped his hat at them with a warm expression. "Wish me luck in the search."
With those words said, the Peacemaker turned to the left, towards the exit of the place. For a moment, there was silence between Bell and Kojiro. The former drummed his fingers on his legs before turning to the adult with a small frown.
"...What now?"
He had no idea what to do as someone's guest, especially of nobility. Were there certain activities one should do? Activities one shouldn't do? Could they just leave? What were the rules? As all those things ran through his mind, Kojiro cut through them with sharpness as he immediately made a decision for Bell.
"Well, since we are honored guests in here, why not take advantage?" He pointed to the right. "I've seen a nice dojo just over there."
"Does that mean... ?" Bell trailed off as excitement built up in his chest.
"We've been lacking in practice, yes." He smiled teasingly. "And I'm sure nobody will be bothered if we take that space."
The excitement dimmed a bit, as Bell scratched the back of his head with a nervous laugh.
"Ahahaha... Maybe we should ask first... "
/
Bell groaned as he stopped for a moment from wiping the sweat off his body with the towel. His arms were killing him. Scratch that, everything was killing him. Sasaki Kojiro was not a man that held back when beating the albino up. He sighed, lowering his head, hands on his knees as he knelt in the dojo. As amazing as it was to experience Kojiro's swordplay... it did his self esteem not a favor. He didn't feel like he fought or sparred with him. More flailed at him in panic or was stuck defending for his life to delay the inevitable. Bell liked to think he was an optimistic person, but every time he trained with Kojiro, he could only see the wide gap between them. The effects of said training weren't visible to Bell either. Especially not after that chase…
The young man shook his head and sighed, pressing his lips together as he threw the towel over his shoulder. He really didn't want to think back to that moment. With a groan, he stood up and began to walk away, planning to take a nap or something. But just as he got around the corner, yellow hair was right at his face. His eyes widened in shock.
"Ah!"
"Eek!"
Bell tried to back off, clumsily as he did, even when he knew it was meaningless, his momentum and her sudden appearance making it impossible to react in time. However, the one he was about to crash into was faster than him. With an oddly familiar, weird foot movement, the individual slid backwards on the ground, the girly shriek repeating itself when Bell fell flat on his butt. He winced at the impact, the shock sending ripples through all his sore muscles. Still, he forced a smile and looked at the person he was about to crash into. To his surprise, it was someone he recognized.
Haruhime hid behind one of the many doorways in the hallway, meekly poking her head out to the side. Meeting his eyes, she jumped a bit before hiding her head until only her ears poked out. Bell ignored how cute that was, especially with the small blush and raised his hands in a placating manner, even if she didn't see him.
"S-sorry! I didn't mean to startle you!"
Slowly, Haruhime revealed her eyes. She flinched when he met them once more. Averting her eyes, she began to touch her fingertips with each other.
"No... I-I shouldn't have watched... " She blinked before her eyes went wide. Frantically, she shook her hands in front of her. "N-n-not that I watched just now! I didn't-didn't see your body!"
To say the silence between them became awkward was an understatement. The implications of her words were obvious enough. Her ears flopped down, her eyes becoming spirals as her face became so red Bell thought he was seeing steam. He himself wasn't faring any better. He covered his mouth with his arm, unsure where to look. To know that someone was observing him like this... Wait, did Kojiro feel like this too when Bell stared at him? He really needed to apologize. Still, thinking of Kojiro and what Haruhime must have seen, caused him to sigh, his shoulders slumping.
"Must've looked weird, seeing me flail around…"
This was not how he wanted to 'show off' his skills to a girl. Preferably he'd be as skilled as Kojiro, saving a damsel in distress from hundreds of monsters in the dungeon. Instead he presented... what happened. Before he could fall deeper into his depression however, the Renard suddenly jumped out from her cover, her hands into fists as she pumped them even with her quivering lips betraying her brave front.
"W-what do you mean? You're very skilled! Especially w-w-without a Falna!" She yelled loudly, as if trying to convince the two of them. Bell blinked before pointing at himself, hope blossoming up.
"Do you think so?"
"I... I am aware of how skilled Lord Sasaki is... " Haruhime said quietly. Then with a deep breath, she closed her eyes and bowed her head, her voice cracking. "That you can keep up is amazing, Lord Cranel!"
"P-please, just call me Bell, Mi-, I mean Lady Sanjouno!" Bell said quickly, panicking just as much as Haruhime. The two of them just began to flail around with their arms, unsure what to do with them, as they tried to get the other to drop the formalities. He didn't know how long it took but by the end of it, their faces weren't red because of embarrassment but from sheer exhaustion. He could barely feel his sore muscles by now, too busy suffocating from the lack of air he was getting from all the shouting. The two of them wheezed for a while. Then, when their eyes met again, Bell couldn't help himself.
He let out a snort, trying to choke back a laugh. That caused Haruhime to cover her face, strange noises escaping from her. They tried their best to avoid making an even bigger commotion. But in the end, it was impossible to stop it.
The two began to laugh. Bell had to admit, she had a nice laugh. It was much nicer to see than her sullen mood during their first meeting. Slowly, they began to calm down. At least now the awkward air was gone. Now he could leave, at peace that he did not embarass himself in front of a cute girl like that. As long as he left now, the damage was repaired.
Of course his mouth ran faster than his common sense sometimes. So caught up in the mood, he decided to say the first words that came to mind, molded by what happened just now and his deep desires.
"Do you want to be friends with me?"
"Eh?"
At her shocked expression, Bell's brain caught up. His innocent smile and his hand, having reached out without his knowledge, wavered. Slowly, he felt his face heat up.
What was he saying?! She was a noble girl! He couldn't just befriend her! Who walked up to a person and asked that anyway?! He was already beginning to remove his hand from her present, trying to control the damage he had done. But to his immense surprise... she grabbed onto his hands like a lifeline.
"If... if you would have me... !" She bowed her head, her voice shaking with emotions. "I'd be more than grateful!"
A part of him ached, hearing such words. A nice girl like her, being so desperate for a friend? That wasn't right. The rest of him however suppressed such negativity and focused on one simple, but miraculous achievement.
He made a friend! Someone his age! That was amazing! While they let each other's hands go in embarrassment, the air around them was just so incredibly light. They began to walk next to each other, just enjoying the other's presence. However, every "dream" had to end, just like this atmosphere. Reality had to catch up eventually and it was Haruhime who was its harbinger.
"...What do we do now?" She asked shyly, a smile still in place. At her words, Bell froze. The Renard blinked before tilting her head with concern, her ears twitching, but he couldn't get the words out. After all... it was a question he never thought an answer of. A question that was a normal thing with friends. However. There was a harsh truth that Bell could usually ignore. His grandpa and then the travels were more than enough to distract him. But now? Now he had to face it.
He never had any friends, thus he had no idea what to do. He had no idea what activities friends usually do. Kojiro was a friend, in a way, but he seemed way older than him. It was different. Not to mention their bonding consisted of training usually, something he couldn't do with a lady like Haruhime. What did girls like to do anyway? He couldn't just fall back on stereotypes. What if she thought that was offensive?!
"Uhm... I can tell you more about the country?" She suggested politely, raising her hand.
"Yes! Please!" Anything, literally anything, was fine with Bell! His voice cracked a bit, as he jumped after that lifeline. While it was embarrassing, what with Haruhime suppressing a giggle behind her hand, it was better than the horror scenarios his mind was concocting. Soon enough they were strolling around the place, relaxing as they took in the sights. At the same time, Haruhime began her little history lesson.
There were three factions which were "leading" the Far East, even way back when the country was isolated from everything else. Too busy dealing with each other, politically or otherwise, there was a delicate balance that kept the country from a devastating civil war. Still, that didn't prevent "minor wars" from occurring that caused misery all around. It was only natural, given the different interests of the factions.
The Storm Faction. They took a similar stance as the infamous Amazon country, Telskyura. To war amongst each other, to remain in the Far East and using it as a feeding ground for creating the strong by sacrificing the weak. A heartfelt belief led by the Tsukoyomi and the Susanoo Familia, they loved to start fights and desired to end them.
The Sun Faction. Those who wanted to widen their horizons. To give hope to the lands with the help of the outside. They desired true cooperation among everyone, to support the weak and allow them to grow with them. They were willing to fight the "evil" that stood against them for it. The major leader was Amaterasu, the goddess that radiated warmth.
The Neutral Faction. Those that neither desired the subjugation of others nor desired the outside world. Those that were contend in staying in the Far East, minding their own business and advancing their own way. To hone their skill in solitude. With Hachiman's descent, this group gained a fast growth, due to the god's Divine Arts Martial Arts, passed down and spread among those that sought the peak alone.
Conflicts of peace versus war. Between opening the borders and keeping them closed. To care, whether it be with good or bad intentions, or minding their own business. Battle was inevitable with such clashing ideals. Because of that, Bell was confused. Because from what he had been seeing... the tensions were not remotely as high as Haruhime described them to be. He remembered the market, outside the walls. Of two factions actually getting along quite well. Sure, it was the Neutral Faction and the Storm Faction, who seemed to be neutral to begin with, but he hadn't heard of any major conflicts at all, especially between the Sun and the Storm Factions.
"What changed? I mean, this country seems pretty peaceful now. I wasn't aware there are any wars right now... "
"There aren't. It's all thanks to Lord Sakamoto," Haruhime responded with a soft smile, causing Bell to blink in surprise. "He earned the alias of 'Peacemaker' not for nothing."
Bell hummed in thought. From his first impressions Ryoma did seem to be the type to mediate as much as possible. Given his aversion to fighting Kojiro... Then again who wouldn't be avert to fighting Kojiro, if they knew him?
"I'm surprised he has so much influence," Bell voiced out, scratching the back of his head with a somewhat humbled expression. If he knew how much of an impact the man had on this country he would have been way more respectful. On the other hand, Ryoma did appreciate the casual air between them so Bell supposed it was alright?
Of course Haruhime's next words threw that assumption out of the window, ruining any self assurance Bell did for himself.
"Not many would ignore the words of a level four after all."
It was unfortunate timing. He had just taken a few sips from the water he had received from one of the servants, thirst appearing due to all the walking around. It proceeded to be launched to the ground, spilling water everywhere as he choked and coughed due to it. Silver lining, Haruhime's reflexes and dexterity were amazing since she caught the cup before it could shatter. Still, even as the girl fussed over him, lightly hitting his back in a panic, Bell was still reeling at the revelation.
"Level four?!" He shouted with tears in his eyes, in utter disbelief. When Haruhime meekly nodded, Bell shook his head in amazement. "For someone called Peacemaker... "
Even he knew some things about the Falna. Of how difficult it was to raise one's divinity. One thing he kept in mind was the general rule concerning levels.
To be exceptional. To have the marks of being considered the elite. To be considered just a step before being in the top class. Maybe it was a level more common for those in Orario, but for a man like Ryoma? Someone with an alias like "Peacemaker"? It boggled his mind. Level 4 might as well have been a war hero to Bell, someone who could take on an army of goblins with ease.
"How…?"
Haruhime gave him a concerned look. After a moment however she nodded in approval of something before raising her finger with a small smile.
"There is a saying his wife, Sakamoto Oryou, always says when someone asks for the reason of their strength." She cleared her throat, before her voice changed a bit. It was an attempt to sound casual, even "high" if he remembered Kojiro's descriptions of the state correctly. However, the embarrassed blush could not be missed by him so all he saw was a cute girl trying her best to role play. "Peace is impossible if you aren't strong enough to keep it."
"She sounds like a wise woman," Bell muttered in amazement. For some reason however the Renard bit her lip and turned her head away, the red color fading from her skin to a...somewhat blue color, as if she remembered something horrifying.
"...Yes. Of course." After the clear lie even he could hear, Haruhime politely coughed for putting on a polite smile again, her hands folded before her. "Anyway, the Storm Faction has been... mollified. For the sake of a sort of union, they plan to gather strength for the entire Far East."
"That sounds great!"
Bell was impressed. If the three factions were at each others throats as much as Haruhime made it out to be, Ryoma deserved nothing but his greatest respects!
"W-well... " Haruhime's nervous expression caused Bell's smile to waver. She looked away, raising her hand to hide her face. "If one doesn't consider their future war plans, yes... "
"Eh?"
Haruhime sighed. Pressing her lips together she lowered her jesus, as if in apology.
"Lord Sakamoto managed to convince them that worthy opponents are outside. That was the price to protect the innocent and weak in the Far East."
Dead silence reigned between them. After all, what could one say to something like that? Obviously it was a terrible thing. Bell's first instinct was to feel indignation. To shout that this was not something that could be allowed to happen. But he knew better. Ryoma, everyone, tried their best given the circumstances. Who was he, an outsider, to judge them? So in the end he remained silent on the topic. However he also didn't want to keep the mood dead like this so he let out an exaggerated laugh. Haruhime jumped in surprise as he rubbed the back of his head with a forced smile.
"So! D-do you know the Divine Arms Style?"
"Yes!" The Renard shouted, realizing what was happening. However she flinched at the noise of her own voice however and her ears dropped in embarrassment. "Er... A... a little." Her shoulders slumped a bit as she averted her eyes. "Not-not that it matters much... "
"Why not? It sounds like an amazing thing!"
She smiled weakly at the compliment but shook her head with a sigh.
"I... don't see much point in me having the skills for it. Y-yes, I am diligent in my training but... I'm afraid of violence. And considering my status... I-I doubt I will get to fight any time soon, ahahaha... "
His gut began to twist, a suspicion forming. The way she acted during that official meeting. The way her father acted. It wasn't his place to pry. But she was her fend now. So in the end, concern won out and he gently put his hand on her shoulder. She flinched at the contact but she didn't back off.
"You... did get to leave, right? Do what you want?" He asked quietly. Her eyes widened and her head snapped up. She opened her mouth but stopped suddenly. Hesitation filled her eyes, as her lips quivered. But in the end she lowered her head in shame.
"...I wasn't allowed, no. I am...the heir after all." A fond smile appeared on her face. "But I was... smuggled out. By o-other friends."
"Where are they now?" Bell asked, having recognized the past tense in her words. She closed her eyes, guilt filling her expression.
"...For not knowing their p-place... the Takemikazuchi Familia has been tasked in supporting Hachiman in the extermination of the monsters outside... n-not allowed back into the capital until their...punishment has run."
"That isn't right!" Bell shouted, his hands curling up into fists at his side. Haruhime opened her eyes in surprise, staring at him in shock
"Huh?"
It was an emotion he wasn't familiar with. Anger. Anger at the situation. Anger.
everything. He didn't like it one bit. At the injustice and feeling angry. So with a fire in his eyes, Bell was determined to help, even if it was just with words and his meager friendship!
"You have the right to choose your own friends and be happy with them! It shouldn't be above their station to take you outside, to let you see the world!"
Haruhime shook. Her eyes glistened, as she stared at Bell, her hand touching her chest as she was shaken to her core.
"But... but my parents... " She muttered weakly. Bell felt a fire flare up in his heart. Damn her parents, he wanted to shout. But he wasn't angry nor foolish enough to do that to her, in their territory. So instead he gently took her hands into his. He felt his face heat up when she blushed as well. But he powered through his embarrassment and instead gave her a gentle smile.
"What do you want?"
Tears ran down her cheeks. With a sniff she smiled back, nervous as it was. Reaching with a finger to her face she wiped the fluids off with a self depreciating giggle. Or maybe she was just laughing at the situation.
"I.. I guess I feel a bit r-rebellious... "
Bell grit his teeth. Wanting to have friends shouldn't be enough to be called rebellious. Still, he buried that frustration and gave Haruhime a smile when she looked up. Even if he wasn't going to stay here forever... he would make sure to keep that smile on her face.