"YOU DID WHAT?"
Charlotte flinched, worried for her eardrums. Okay, she told the news to the Blue Roses because they deserved to know, after everything they did to support her concerning Yami. But when a lot of women were screaming at the same time, it was obviously very loud. Especially when it was due to excitement.
"As I told you, Yami and I… kissed… after the urgency meeting."
And she was so very glad that no one else witnessed that. If anyone of her colleagues or any of their allies from other countries would have seen it, Charlotte probably wouldn't have heard the end of it. Especially if it would have been Dorothy, Rill or even queen Lolopechka. Or Jack, if he would have survived the war.
As if this kiss wasn't already so embarassing altogether. Why did she even kissed Yami all of a sudden? Why had she been so bold? They still didn't had that tea date to properly talk about their feelings! And all of a sudden, she kissed him? He must have think that she was going mad or something!
That is… if he wouldn't have kissed her back. But he did. And this was what confused Charlotte.
Oh, she didn't regretted the kiss itself. How could she even, it was wonderful! But the circumstances around it just weren't ideal. Why couldn't she have been more patient? Charlotte had waited for ten years, surely she should have been capable to wait a few days more, or weeks in the worst case.
But maybe she had been unable to be patient because she already waited for ten years? What was the deal with those contradictory thoughts?
"And then, what happened?"
"Did you kissed with tongue?"
"Was he rough or soft with you? Or even better, both"
"Did you want to do much more than just kisses?"
"Was there more than one kiss?"
"Did you kissed on other parts of your body, not just the mouth?"
"Were you able to finally confess?"
Her girls didn't stop bombarding her questions, not even waiting for any answers. It was almost as if they were more excited about the whole kiss situation than herself. Well, it always been like that since she admitted to them that she was in love with Yami, but still. Weren't they in a way overdoing it?
Or maybe was she the one overreacting?
Puli just nonchalantly sat down beside her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "Come on, captain Charlotte, don't be such a shy wallflower. We want to know the details, especially the spicy ones."
"Spicy? But… we haven't done… that!"
"What did I told you many times already, captain Charlotte? Things doesn't need to be sexual to be already spicy."
Sexual… Like sex?
Charlotte felt her face getting redder than a ripe tomato. Just the mere thought of sex… having sex with Yami… She was going crazy!
She never slept with anyone before, after all she had good reasons to hate affairs and stuff like that. But when it came to be in bed with Yami… How many nights has she dreamed about it or even just of his naked body? Those dreams were often blurry and terribly confusing, but they nonetheless left her so flustered afterwards.
Was she not better than those women who only cared for a guy on a superficial level? But if this was the case, she probably wouldn't have truly fallen in love with Yami and she might still be under the curse.
Was it possible to love someone truly and at the same time be completely attracted to him?
"Of course it is possible, captain Charlotte. In fact, a good romantic relationship often includes the sexual attraction mixed with the pure feelings for the person for who they are. The erotic and the psychic often go hand in hand when it comes to love. There is a very old tale that describes it very well, the names of the heroes are even Eros and Psyche."
"I… I don't need the details!"
"Come on, captain Charlotte," Selena said, "There is nothing that you are attracted to the man you love. Especially now that you have kissed."
"But… well… we… we both ran away once it was over."
"WHAT, REALLY!"
Again, her poor eardrums.
But she probably deserved that. Seriously, what in the name of the Clover was wrong with her? She finally kissed Yami, passionately even, he kissed her back, they made out for quite a while. And once it was over, she ran away like she always did! Granted, he ran away too and none of them flew quite immediately, just lucking at each other in shock and heavily blushing. Charlotte never saw Yami flustered before.
But still, it didn't change the fact that she ran after the kiss! What a stupid pity. If this wasn't taking a step forward and then a few steps back again, then she didn't know what else it could be.
"Before one of you says anything, yes, I KNOW that it was a stupid reaction! To run away, but also to kiss him out of the blue like that… Oh, Heavens, what will Yami ever think of me? He ran too, I-"
"No, captain, deep breaths first," Risacca interrupted her, before sitting on the couch at her side and putting a comforting arm around her shoulder. Never had Charlotte been more grateful to have such a wonderful vice-captain at her side.
"If you ask me, captain Charlotte, maybe you are more desperate than we all thought originally. But we don't blame you. Loving someone for over a decade, it's no wonder you can end up so impatient. Especially since your love for captain Yami only grew stronger over those ten years."
Charlotte looked at Puli who still sat on her other side, but couldn't protest. She was right and despite her overwhelming joy when it came to love, when had she ever been wrong when it was about romance?
"Let us look at this on the positive perspective, shall we?" Puli continued with the same big smile she always had on when it was about Charlotte and Yami. "You finally kissed him. There is no more clear indicator about your deep feelings for him. And… captain Yami kissed you back, am I right?"
"Yes… yes, he did…"
"Wonderful! Which means he is also into you! Not that this is surprising after all, but it is more than probable that captain Yami was as dense to his own feelings as he was to yours. But his instincts catch up."
Her girls followed Pulis speech with victorious squeals, which honestly were still not that good for her eardrums. Either the Blue Roses were extremely loud today or Charlotte was still too shocked from that bold kiss that she was more sensitive today.
Probably the latter, her girls were always loud when it was about Yami and her ever growing feelings for him.
"Well, captain Charlotte, you really can only be positive about that kiss. It gave you one more good reason to finally talk it out with captain Yami!"
Oh… Charlotte hadn't thought about that. At least not yet. But Puli was right, that bold kiss they shared gave them another good reason to finally talk everything out between them. That is, if Yami wasn't offended by that kiss… what if he doesn't want to talk to her ever again after that?
But if he was offended, he wouldn't have kissed her back and for that long even. Or did he just go for it? It wouldn't be the first time, Yami doing something without thinking. And when they finally realized what exactly they were doing, he run away flustered, just like she did.
Why was she still calling him Yami, anyway? She had learned yesterday that his first name was actually Sukehiro and that in Hino, that famous Land of the Sun, it was pretty normal to put the family name before the first name. Other countries, other traditions. It was still very confusing and if Charlotte knew her captains colleagues, the Black Bulls and her girls well, it might be continue to be confusing, even for Yami himself maybe.
Oh, Charlotte could understand how this misunderstanding happened in the first place. She couldn't blame Yami, who crashed on the shores of Clover just like that, to not know in this kingdom first names were put before the family names. Of course he couldn't know and when Julius met him and asked him for his name, of course Yami told him like he was used to from Hino.
And Charlotte couldn't blame Julius either, that he thought Yami was the first name and Sukehiro the family name. Given all the circumstances, it was bound to end up like that. Still, she wondered why Yami didn't correct his mentor after he came to learn the language of Clover. But at the same time, it was also so typical of him.
Yes, they had so much to talk about and Charlotte wanted nothing more to finally settle things between them. And to be with him for the rest of their lives. Which included SO MANY things and a lot of them were so flustering.
But for that, they needed to finally have their promised tea date. And given the current situation in the kingdom, it won't be for soon. She might need to be patient for a bit longer. Although, Charlotte didn't trust herself anymore to be patient. That bold kiss proved it, she has lost any ability to wait when it came to Yami.
To Sukehiro.
It would really take some time before she would be able to call him Sukehiro that easily as she was calling him Yami right now.
"Risacca, Puli, girls… I might have a problem talking to Yami. As you know already… right before the first battle against Lucius Zogratis-"
"May he rot in a place a hundred times worse than hell!"
"Well… Yami asked me to have some tea with him, to finally settle everything between us. But after everything that happened… it will take some time before the first restaurants and cafés can open again. And… Oh, I don't think I have enough patience to wait for a bit longer before to finally talk it out with him."
"Oh, captain Charlotte, don't be ashamed of being impatient," Galgaria said with a comforting tone.
"Yes, it is pretty normal that you don't wanna wait, after doing just that for over a decade," Aimée added with a soft smile.
Charlotte hold her tears back. They might be a handful, but always so supporting, especially concerning Yami and despite how many times she ended up flustered about it, she couldn't help but to be deeply grateful to all of them.
Puli smiled at her with a certain grin. "That might be true, but don't forget one thing, captain Charlotte. You don't automatically need to go to a café or a restaurant to have this important tea date. And you definitely don't need to feel bad to have that wish despite the current situation in the kingdom. On the contrary, it is very important to do things that makes us happy during those difficult times. You can bring tea to him or he can bring it to her… Maybe the little chief of the Black Bulls can prepare you something delicious for the picnic. I've been often in contact with Gordon since our famous mixer and he told me that Charmy is one of the best cooks in the kingdom. You can even have this tea date in your bedroom, if you want. No need to be formal, the talk, the love confession, another kiss and maybe even more is what matters for that tea date. Speaking of, if we team up with the Black Bulls today, maybe you can finally make arrangements for that tea!"
Charlotte sighed. Puli made good points and it only made her more eager to finally have this tea date. But…
"I fear I still have to wait a bit then. Today, we are teamed up with someone from Hino, a girl called Komari, and the Coral Peacocks."
She could hear half of her girls groan in disappointment. Were they so eager to work with the Black Bulls just so that she could finally talk with Yami? With Sukehiro?
But Puli didn't join their disappointment. "Hm, this is not so bad. I know for sure that captain Dorothy will certainly also help you with Yami. Maybe she can give you some good advice, from one female captain to another female captain."
Oh God, please no! Charlotte was well aware that except the main interested, each other captain must be aware at this point that she was in love with Yami. Even Jack, may he rest in peace, seemed to have known and he was just as stupid as the captain of the Black Bulls. And Dorothy… She was nice, that is true, but so very teasing and she had always been the one to tease Charlotte about Yami.
If she would be asked for help, Charlotte feared that she would never hear the end of it.
"Sadly no, father Orsi, Asta is still in a coma."
"Oh, my poor boy, he was such a good hearted lad and Lily wants to see him again to apologize, and Nash and the others miss him and… I need to know that he's going to make it, Asta was always such a good boy!"
Noelle could practically hear father Orsi cry through the communication device. Normally, she would have rolled her eyes, but not this time. After all, it was normal for him to be worried about Asta, he raised him since he was a baby and was a true father figure for him. And she couldn't help to be worried too. According to Owen, Asta was fine, his wounds were healed, but he still wasn't waking up. How strong had been this final encounter with Lucius? And why did Asta fell in a coma afterwards? After all, his childhood friend Yuno had been right there with him, got hurt as well, but didn't fell in a coma.
If only she could be able to be so openly worried about Asta like father Orsi was. Oh, of course, it would have been very ridiculous and unfitting for a royal. But for the first time, Noelle wouldn't care. At least, not as much as she normally used to. Sadly, she was still a bit struggling with open feelings, especially when it came to Asta.
Damn Silva genes and those bottled up feelings. It explained a lot about their family on certain topics. Heck, even Nebra told her once that she was rather fed up with that attitude, but still found it difficult to act more open in general. Was it the same for Solid? And Nozel… He must have mastered to bottle up his own feelings.
"Listen, father Orsi. According to doctor Owen, Asta is not in danger, so he won't die. Yuno probably has told you that as well."
"Yes, many times already… Oh, my poor boy!"
"Good. I promise you to keep you updated about his wellbeing. Don't worry, he will wake up and come back to us soon."
For some reason, Noelle felt like she wasn't only trying to reassure father Orsi, but herself as well. Why was she even doubting? She was a Black Bull, doubts shouldn't be part of their vocabulary!
But she also knew that being overconfident always would come to bite you back. After all, this happened during her first battle against her paladin mother.
"Thank you, lady Noelle… Until next time, then. I will try to calm down and- Oh no Nash, don't you start crying too!"
This man was really emotional. Noelle wondered if Asta got kinda inspired for his own excitement by the man who raised him.
With a sigh, she placed the squads communication back where she found it – within Vanessas bottle collection of cheap wine for some reason – and looked at the broken plates in the sink. No wonder that the finances of the Black Bulls were in shambles, when they destroyed plates every two days and have to buy new ones.
Not to mention captain Yamis dumb addiction to gambling and beer, right along with Magnas, Charmys bottomless stomach that needed to be filled with food every minute, Vanessas drinking and shopping habit, Gauche buying stuff for his sister and lately for Grey. Plus the destroyed walls and furniture – sometimes Henry couldn't catch up to the destruction made daily – and all those bills paid too late, for so many reasons. If Finral, Gordon and lately also Nacht weren't watching, the finances of the Black Bulls might have been non-existent from the start.
Not that Noelle had herself money problems. She never had. Along with her Magic Knight salary, she also had her royal rent, so she was quite secure. Good, because she might not be that good with budgeting. Finral and Gordon had tried to explain it to her once and all she got from this lesson was number headache.
She sometimes used some of her own money to help her squad out. But more discreetly. The first time, captain Yami had used the fond she gave to go gamble and lose it, instead of use it to buy new shelves for the squads archive and library. End of story, Noelle decided to be more discreet about her fonds, which means to give them directly to Finral, Gordon or Nacht and they still needed new shelves for their library and archive. The books were now in boxes and most of them weren't even in a good shape to begin with.
Noelle truly loved the Black Bulls like a family, but if she wanted a book for some research or even for some recreation, she rather have those in her own room, buying some in bookshops or going to the Silva Library and the Magic Knights Archives.
Most of the Black Bulls weren't that big on reading in general. Asta too, but in his case, he was just an idiot. Damn, why has she never thought to share some of her favourite novels with him? That could have been some really good bonding besides the never ending training and workout.
Instead of avoiding him for the past year. Maybe they would have gotten together?
"Stop it, Noelle, you're getting ahead of yourself," Noelle muttered. Besides, if they would have gotten together, how would she have felt about the fact that Nozel would sacrifice himself into a loveless marriage for Nebra, Solid and herself?
Noelle couldn't imagine it. The mere thought of Nozel giving up his own happiness for hers? It was scary and she refused to let it happen. Under any circumstances. Even though, what would this mean for her feelings for Asta? They weren't even together and Asta wasn't even the type to just fall in love with someone quickly, just like that.
Okay, she needed to stop with her worries, she needed her energy to rebuild the kingdom.
But when she joined the rest of the Black Bulls and their visitors from Hino, no one seems to be really ready to go. In fact, they were all waiting for captain Yami to finally show up. Which he didn't.
"Don't tell me that he is still on the toilet," Noelle groaned as she came next to Zora and Vanessa.
"Nope, still taking a dump since yesterday," Zora snickered and Vanessa even added, "According to Gordon, he didn't left during the night. And Charmy had to place his breakfast plus some newspaper in front of the toilet door."
"Okay, I know that he has somehow digestion problems, but he never stayed so long on the toilet. It can't be Charmys cooking!"
"Of course not, sweetie, captain Yami always had this toilet problems and according to Ryu, he had them already back in Hino, so it's really not something Charmy cooked, thankfully. She would have been in rage or wailing if it was the case."
Zora still snickered, "Well, it's true that his toilet break is really stronger today than usual. Maybe he has a romantic problem or somethin'"
"Since when is captain Yami a romantic?" Noelle replied with a pout.
"Yeah, I don't really believe it either. Or maybe captain Bird Braid was being nice to him and captain Yami lost his mind because of it- Ouch, girls, what was that for!"
"Don't you dare insult my older brother, Zora!" Noelle protested. She always hated it when her squadmates made fun of Nozel.
"Exactly, be nice to him. It almost sounds like you don't want him to be kind or to show another side of himself!"
Noelle looked at Vanessa with surprise. Since when was she so defensive of Nozel? Okay, he was handsome apparently, but Vanessa only knew his cold side everyone saw, so it was more than probable that she disliked him except for the pretty face like she said and she always laughed when Noelle tried to explain that her brother wasn't that bad. So why the defence suddenly?
"Geez, Vanessa, I get that Noelle would want to defend her bro for stupid reasons-"
"Hey!"
"But you, why would care about Bird Braid except for the pretty face? Which I honestly still try to understand why he's considered handsome with that stupid braid and his grandma hair colour."
"Hey, my hair are also silver and it's not a grandma colour. It's a family heirloom and a very pretty colour and not everyone has flashy hair like you!"
"I have my reasons to defend captain Nozel and it's not only because he is handsome. Which he is truly, I bet you are secretly agreeing and that you deny it just to hide that you are a big softy deep down."
Woah, Vanessa didn't sound that much like teasing, like usual. Why was she so worked up about Nozel?
Noelle couldn't continue her train of thoughts though, as vice-captain Nacht appeared in front of them, looking rather pissed. Oh, this would mean that captain Yami avoided his duties again and delegated it on him. Noelle was kinda like Magna, she didn't like vice-captain Nacht that much for his ruthless comments with that stupid smile and his obvious favouritism towards Asta. But well, she could understand that it was frustrating when captain Yami went too laidback and delegated things he could do himself on others. How many times had she needed to help Finral with rapports that were meant for the captain directly? Maybe vice-captain Nacht had sometimes good reasons to be ruthless.
"Alright, that idiot seems to be stuck on his toilet for the rest of the day, let him deal with the consequences. So, apparently, the Black Bulls are teamed up with the Silver Eagles for the rebuilds of today."
Luck was very excited, yelling about fighting some Silver Eagles, while Magna and Zora complained about the team-up, Magna because he wanted to be with the Crimson Lions and Zora because he was Zora.
Noelle on the contrary was happy. The Black Bulls teaming up with the Silver Eagles would mean that she would be working together with Nozel and Nebra today, that she would spent a bit more time with her oldest siblings. Besides, if they would take a break, Noelle could talk about Nebra about that spooky novel she recommended – that had been quite the surprise for Noelle, that her sister shared the same guilty pleasure interest for spooky novels – and showing a bit of comfort to Nozel.
Suddenly, Noelle felt the need to side-glance at Vanessa. While she looked as amused like always, there was a gleaming shine in her eyes. Okay, this was definitely weird. Hopefully she wouldn't do anything to Nozel!
Vice-captain Nacht just ignored the protestation and happy screams, as he continued calmly, "Komari, you will go with the Blue Roses and the Coral Peacocks. And please, calm your joy scream down next time. Yosuga, you are going to help the Crimson Lions and the Green Mantises."
For some reason, lord Yosuga started to gleam just like Vanessa. Has Noelle missed something?
"Ichika, today you are with the Purple Orcas and the Aqua Deers. I warn you, captain Rill will probably ask you endlessly to make your portrait. But don't worry about captain Kaiser, he is the only normal one."
"Understood."
Noelle glanced at captain Yamis sister. Wasn't it a bit strange that the siblings seemed so distant? Maybe, but it felt a bit familiar to Noelle. Hasn't she been distant with her own siblings as well until lately? So, she related a bit to Ichika. After all, she hadn't seen her older brother for years and their common history was maybe not so happy.
Ichika was similar to captain Yami, but the differences were flagrant. Not laid-back, way more serious, Noelle sometimes wondered how the Black Bulls would have been if Ichika was the captain.
"And lord Ryu, you will meet with Marx and the three queens at the Magic Knights Headquarters. The Golden Dawn will be on rebuild duty in this area."
"No problem. Shall I go immediately?"
"Yes, we probably shouldn't delay. We're a bit too late already thanks to Yami. It's already good he didn't use his paperwork as toilet paper."
Finral opened a portal and was beaming with happiness when Ryu thanked him deeply for his service. Then, he opened three other portals for the three Ryuzen, who also didn't forgot to thank him. It was actually nice seeing him getting gratitude, which didn't happen often. Maybe the Black Bulls were a bit too harsh on him.
Finally, Finral opened one last portal and the Black Bulls passed through, meeting with the Silver Eagles. Noelle immediately started to smile when she saw Nozel and Nebra standing on the front line of their squad.
"Brother, sister! Sorry we're late, but captain Yami is stuck on the toilet for some reason and refuse to come out. Vice-captain Nacht didn't want to wait longer."
"What kind of digestion problems does your captain have?" Nebra asked with a laugh, before dodging a rainbow stinkbug thrown by Zora, which landed on Curtis Warren, standing right behind her.
Noelle glared at Zora. Couldn't he holding himself back at least for the greeting? She could understand his beef against nobles and royals, but this was not one of those situations to dwell on it. Thank goodness, Nebra didn't seem that upset.
Nozel had a small smile for Noelle and put a hand on her head, much to her delight, before he walked over towards vice-captain Nacht.
"Has Yami gave you the groups constellations for today?"
"No, but it was on his usual armchair. Your suggestions seems very appropriate. We have three spatial mages with Finral and your two Silver Eagles. Dividing them in three big groups for the heavy rebuild is a good idea. Shall I suggest to have also a bit more tiny teams, of two or three people, so that we can expand better upon the area?"
"Good idea. I'll make sure to mix the members of our squad as well between those teams, so that we all can really work together."
Vice-captain Nacht nodded in agreement, somehow satisfied. Noelle observed how her brother now talked to everyone, simple and clear, organizing todays teams and giving everyone very clear instructions.
Noelle couldn't help but smile with pride. Her brother might be not perfect, but as a captain, Nozel was really doing a great job.
If only Asta would have seen it…
Vanessa put her plate aside and sighed while looking around her. It was really a lot to rebuilt and even though they already have done so much this morning, it didn't look like they truly advanced.
They did, that was certain and they have started with the heaviest destruction, it just that the war against Lucius Zogratis took a lot. But teamwork makes the dream work and both Black Bulls and Silver Eagles were proving it again. It was surprising, but those both squads were actually working very well together. The Silver Eagles weren't as arrogant as anyone would believe at first. Oh, there were some noble assholes, for sure, but most of them were put in their places, not only by the Black Bulls, but also by other Silver Eagles and by Nozel himself.
Vanessa smiled. It wasn't that obvious, but Nozel truly cared for his squad and did his best to lead them. Even if it meant to put jerks into their places. One thing Vanessa noticed though, some of those noble jerks didn't looked like they truly respected Nozel. She always had thought that he was popular and by that, that he was respected by nobility. Of course, during this past year, during all the time she spent with Nozel, Vanessa came to realize that the world of nobility and royalty was more complex than it seemed at first.
But still… why were some people of his own squad kinda disrespectful towards him? Nozel wasn't the most liberal royal and so those jerks didn't have a reason to dislike him. Right? Vanessa wasn't sure.
She knew that Nozel wasn't the most open royals, but he had a good heart. He deserved respect and he was respectable. Once you knew him.
But how many people really knew him?
Vanessa didn't like that she got so interested in this complex world of royals and nobles. She never had to deal with it before and hopefully never would, as it seemed like a pain. But on the other hand, it was Nozels world, he dealt with it on a daily basis and for him, she might be ready to dive into it, to learn, to deal with it more often.
How strange. For someone who wasn't a Black Bull and with which she only had sex, she seemed quite ready to do a lot for him.
And again the question… if it was only sex, why did it seem more deep, more meaningful, more pure? She cared for Nozel, that was true. But the way she cares for him… Vanessa sometimes wondered if Rouge would work on him.
Her spell only worked on people she cared really deeply for and it was mostly the Black Bulls. But the way she cared for Nozel just felt as deep and true. Just in a kinda different way. As if he had a special place somehow.
Damn, she was really going insane when it came to him. But it still felt nice…
"Careful, Vanessa. That is an unknown and dangerous territory. Well, why should I be afraid about that, I'm a Black Bull and we Black Bulls are always daring. Yes, but usually you went onto such paths with the Black Bulls, never alone. Doesn't matter, it's still worth it. Nozel is worth it."
Shit, hopefully no one witnessed her having a talk with herself. Yes, she had a rather crazy reputation thanks to being a witch, to love to drink and to be a Black Bull, but this didn't meant she wanted to give another confirmation. But thankfully, Vanessa discovered no one, although she could hear Black Bulls and Silver Eagles having fun over their lunch. It was always nice to get along with knights of other squads. Maybe in the future, they will work with other squads more often.
Which would mean that that maybe, she would be able to see Nozel a bit more often… Was this selfish to wish for? Especially when their bond was so unclear still?
Vanessa always had the feeling that she was denying something when she thought about how mysterious her bond with Nozel was. Hopefully she wasn't ending up as dense as Asta or captain Yami, you didn't need to be Grey to be embarrassed about that. Asta at least had the excuse to be still young and innocent.
Which wasn't the case for captain Yami. Holy Witch Hat, being able to read Ki and not recognizing when someone was head over heels for you for who knows how long… It reminded Vanessa how captain Charlotte confessed to captain Yami back in Spade. Heck, Vanessa couldn't forget, she had been right there when the captain of the Blue Roses had cried it out.
How could she forget when it was practically the root why she fell into Nozels arms?
While the other Black Bulls didn't seem to have given it much importance – Magna and Asta even believing that it was a friendship confession – but Vanessa just couldn't have forget it. For reasons…
She had tried to talk to captain Yami about it, but he never paid any attention at all. It never helped either that captain Charlotte was for some reason avoiding Yami whenever she could. It had frustrated Vanessa, more than she had realized it. Especially that she also had decided to tell Yami that she had a crush on him once…
Why had she decided to tell him that? She had been over it for years! More or less… maybe not as much as she thought. Or maybe because she never wanted to? In any case, captain Charlottes confession had triggered something within Vanessa, something that always had been there, that maybe needed conclusion or not.
And something she didn't want to think about anymore.
Vanessa remembered how on that fateful day, she had followed her captain to the royal capital, waiting for him and tried to explain captain Charlottes confession, but he had ignored it again. It had frustrated her so big that she run off.
And had bumped into Nozel.
Gosh, Vanessa felt so ashamed of their encounter, as she let out her frustration out on him. Not her most glorious moment, even for a Black Bull it was kinda a shame. She had to give it to Nozel that he remained at her side after her burst. He even gave her a pillow to punch and sat at her side when she started to ugly cry.
It had been kind of him. Giving Vanessa more reasons to be ashamed about her behavior, even more so since she had been upset at Yami and Charlotte, not at Nozel. Maybe she remained with him for that reason, after she finally calmed down. To apologize? Even though their talk hadn't been completely casual.
But she explained to him practically everything she had wanted to tell Yami and Nozel actually understood everything. After getting ignored, it felt really nice.
Then… the kiss… this famous kiss that lead to other ones… The passion growing so quickly…
Vanessa closed her eyes as the memories came back running into her mind. She remember the roughness of their embrace, against the wall, on the floor… It had left her breathless and while she had been flustered about it – heck, she had a one-night-stand not only with a captain from another squad and a royal, but also with Noelles older brother! – it had satisfied her in a way like nothing did before. Even though the circumstances weren't that great.
During three days, Vanessa had thought about Nozel every possible minute, neglecting even wine. In the end, her mind filled with Nozel and their sensual embrace, she flew on a rainy evening to the royal capital, searched for his room around the Silva Palace, he let her in… and they slept together for the second time.
Their first time wasn't something Vanessa regretted, she just couldn't. But half of the circumstances and the memories bond to it weren't the easiest ones to remember. Their second time, though… That had been just perfect, a memory she came to treasure. The slow pacing, the softness, the kisses, them on this giant bed, his caresses on her skin… everything had been better than the first time.
"You're so addicted to the handsome eagle, Vanessa…" she mumbled. Gosh, it was still lunch break, maybe she could see him for a few moments before getting back to work?
More determined than she wanted to admit, Vanessa stood up, took her empty plate and went to search for Nozel.
She saw Charmy giving some Silver Eagles probably the third meals today. Vanessa put her plate next to Charmy, before she continued her search for the captain of the Silver Eagles. His sisters were sitting in a corner, away from the sun, talking about something with excitement. Nero was in her bird form on Noelles shoulder. A bit away, Magna and Luck were fighting, under the irritated observation of a junior Silver Eagle, a young girl with dark red hair. Nacht was not that far away, glancing at the area, almost looking like a statue. Gordon was trying to make friends with Nils Ragus. And Zora was nearby the Silva sisters, arms crossed and a face mixing smugness and frustration.
But still no Nozel Silva.
Vanessa decided to go to a place where a group of five houses were now in ruins. She had seen him there, lifting heavy wall pieces with his mercury. It was really fascinating to see all the things he could do with his magic.
She got lucky, he was still there. But not alone, as he was talking with a woman. Given the robe, it was another Silver Eagle. And she was a pretty one, with that pale face and the rosy cheeks, the long ink blue hair, put in two braids falling on her shoulders, and bright brown eyes, like the colour of old parchment.
Vanessa went stiff. Why did she immediately noticed that this Silver Eagle girl was somehow pretty and why did it bothered so much? And why didn't she liked the fact that Nozel was talking to her? Surely, he was the captain, it was pretty normal that he talked with the members of his squad, nothing wrong with that.
But Vanessa still didn't like it. That girl wasn't smiling, why wasn't she smiling while looking at such a handsome man like Nozel Silva? Okay, Vanessa wouldn't have liked it either if she would have smiled. But she was still standing a bit too close to her captain, at least in Vanessas books.
Geez, what was wrong with her? Why did she sounded so… jealous?
No, she couldn't be jealous! Not about a man she just had sex with! Amazing sex, though, and with a wonderful man… who she didn't want to see unhappy. Or with another woman… Geez, there was it again!
Vanessa groaned.
And apparently, it was loud enough, as Nozel and the b-… the girl turned towards her. Oops. That might be awkward.
"That would be enough, Agatha, please join the others."
Oh, Agatha, huh? She somehow looked like an Agatha. Vanessa suddenly felt like she shouldn't like that name. Good grief, what was wrong with her?
"Alright, captain Nozel. Miss Enoteca."
The woman, Agatha, nodded to both of them, before she left, her cape and braids whipping behind her.
When they were truly alone, Nozel thankfully came closer to her. "Vanessa, don't you think this is a risk? For us to meet like that in the open?"
"Still wanted to see you, stud. Um, who was that?"
"Agatha Austen, my vice-captain."
His vice-captain? Oh, then no wonder he was talking to her. That was pretty normal… Vanessa hoped at least.
"How is she?"
"You can ask her that yourself, if you're that interested."
"No, I didn't meant that. How is she as, you know?"
"Agatha is a very competent and loyal vice-captain, don't worry."
His tone was neutral, nothing was showing any interested that had anything to do outside of duty. Vanessa sighed, truly relieved. He wasn't interested in Agatha, she was just his vice-captain. No reason to be stupidly jealous.
Jealous of what? Damn, that sounded almost possessive. Now, Vanessa was relieved and a bit confused about her sudden jealousy. It never felt like this before, not even with captain Charlotte during their stupid competition at the Star Festival.
Well, she shouldn't focus on that, but on the handsome man in front of her. He looked so good in the sunlight, with his profile, his hair shining like true and pure silver, his piercing lilac eyes looking at the ruins, focusing on the repairs to achieve. She could see his toned muscles under his robe, cloak and clothes. Vanessa licked her lips. How many times had she felt his body against hers, fitting so surprisingly perfectly?
Nozel Silva was as handsome as he was deep down a good man.
She had no reason to be jealous.
Vanessa put his arms around him, hugging him tightly. It always felt so right and she refused to miss any occasion to hug him.
"What was that for?"
"Just because."
"Vanessa…"
"Okay, also because I missed you."
"But we saw each other already today."
"But we weren't alone since yesterday evening."
She heard Nozel sigh and felt one of his arms around her, proving that he was already giving up discussing with her. He knew her somehow so well already…
"What were you talking about with your vice-captain?"
"Agatha and I were discussing how to deal with nobles complaining and panicking, be it directly at our base or through paper. It was like a huge wave crashing once everything started to calm down a bit."
"Why are nobles complaining? And why are they bothering the Silver Eagles like that, don't they know you have currently other urgent duties right now?"
"They're not only bothering the Silver Eagles, but also the Crimson Lions, the Golden Dawn, as well as the Blue Roses, the Purple Orcas and the Aqua Deers, even though a bit less. Rill told me that those complaints inspire him for his paintings, for some reason. Practically any squad that is led by a royal or a noble. And they think that they have the priority, because they are nobles."
Ugh, that sounded about right. One of the reasons why Vanessa didn't want to bother with nobility. Oh, of course she knew that not every noble was like that. Finral, Gauche and vice-captain Nacht were the living proof of it and there were even other nice nobles outside of the Black Bulls. Klaus for example or a lot of the Blue Roses, including their captain, not to forget captain Rill and captain Kaiser, from what she heard. But there were still many jerks within nobility.
If the six squads Nozel mentioned would continue to ignore the stupid complaints, would the nobles get desperate to start bothering the Coral Peacocks, the Green Mantises and even the Black Bulls?
"Still, why are they especially bothering the Silver Eagles?"
"Because I'm not only a royal, but also the head of house Silva. So, those nobles probably hope to gain something more quickly. Or that I would make a mistake. A lot of them have their reasons to be upset with me."
And this was something Vanessa couldn't understand why. Something she was afraid to understand. Usually, she would ignore something like that. But since it was about Nozel, it didn't felt right to ignore it…
"I'm sorry."
"What for?"
"That I don't know anything about nobility, royalty and how all of this work. I've never dealt with it before, so I have no idea how this world works."
"And I'm grateful for that. Despite the golden image, behind the curtain it's mostly a horrible world. Arrogance, greed, enjoying when others are failing, even royals… It's everything you aren't, Vanessa. I don't want someone like you to be corrupted by it."
Maybe… but it was still his world. And nobility had a place within the country she lived, just for that she couldn't ignore it forever.
Does Nozel considered himself corrupted? Knowing him, it was possible. But Vanessa didn't believe it. Sure, Nozel wasn't the easiest person, but he never accepted any bargain, he hated lying, even when it was a white lie, he never ever used his position to gain something on illegal ways and most importantly, he still cared truly for those dear to him, especially his siblings. Even though he had difficult times to show it.
No, Nozel Silva was many things, but not a corrupt person.
Vanessa looked up to him. He seemed still so burdened and even worse, he seemed used to carry a heavy burden. How can anyone be used to that?
Was he still thinking about his mother?
Certainly. And Vanessa couldn't help but hope that Nozel could finally heal from this loss. He should have need to grieve already seventeen years ago. Had no one been there to help him back then?
Feeling again the need to comfort him, Vanessa put her lips on his. It was the first time she kissed him almost in public, when people were close by, especially their friends and families. It was bold and Vanessa didn't want anyone to find out yet about their rather strange affair, especially not Noelle. But it just felt too good to be with Nozel.
She felt him freeze in her arms, he must be shocked by her boldness. But she still hold him tightly, keeping her lips on his, not letting him go. Thankfully, Nozel didn't hesitate for long and kissed her back soundly, putting an arm around her shoulders, deepening the kiss. He was such an amazing kisser. Vanessa already came to that conclusion when they had sex for the first time.
The kiss went long, to the point that they needed to break it, so that they could breathe again. But they still hold each other. Nozel started to caress her neck with his other hand, in this so very special way only he could do it. And despite the usual worry in his eyes, since they were in a public place, more or less, there was also an affection in his metallic lilac eyes that made Vanessa blush.
"Vanessa, we shouldn't doing this here… Anyone could hear us, anyone could see us."
He was right and despite how much she wanted him again, even Vanessa wasn't that bold. Not to forget that Noelle was nearby.
"What do you think, handsome? Should we meet again this evening? At your place, of course, it's the safest one."
Nozel didn't answer immediately, just looking at her with his gorgeous eyes, a bit worried, a bit sad. But there was also hunger in them, wanting her and this made Vanessa so happy. Happier than she would have thought.
"I look forward to it."
Just for that, Vanessa rewarded Nozel with another hot kiss.
As they made out, holding each other as tightly as possible, Vanessa completely forgot where they were right now, the voices of the Black Bulls and the Silver Eagles nearby felt so blurry, so far away.
No, it wasn't just sex between her and Nozel. It wouldn't have felt so deeply and strong, so wonderful if it was the case. She wouldn't have cared for him this much if it really was just sex.
Does it meant that…
Nozel brushed her lips with his tongue and Vanessa opened her mouth to let him in, almost forgetting what she was about to realize.
When Nacht told her this morning that the captain of the Azure Deer squad was excited about painting, Ichika didn't thought that he was THIS excited. But once she got some talks with captain Rill, she felt overwhelmed and not in a bad way. It was just… confusing.
"The similarities with your brother are so amazing, miss Ichika, it's like a see a female Yami in front of me! Oh, I would love to paint you two together, that would be a masterpiece! Did you know that your brother often got on last place with his squad for years, before going up? I was at last place once and was desperate, but Yami always stood calm and stoic, so strong, not caring at all, which is so cool, even his heart has chest hair!"
What was that supposed to mean?
But Ichika couldn't really ask, as captain Rill continued with excitement, "You are just as calm as him, but still different! And you are really not as laidback as he is, on the contrary, you are so serious about your duty, maybe Yami should take an example out of you! Also, he never used his Ki reading like you do, is that a thing back in Hino? I wonder why he never used it like that while he was here in Clover."
Yes, Ichika wondered that too. Not being in Hino for so long shouldn't have prevented Sukehiro to train on his abilities with Ki. By the great Ochaamii, was her brother really that lazy while he was here?
"Speaking of Hino, I had the occasion to talk a bit with Ryu yesterday, after the urgency meeting and what he told me about the art in Hino is just amazing! I really need to travel there one day to see it with my own eyes! I'm sure I would get inspired to create so many other masterpieces! Is it true that cherry blossom trees are well loved in Hino? Or the seas and waves? Oh, and I need to know how the buildings look like where you come from and the kind of clothes you have, so I can paint people like that!"
That sounded really like an artist. Even more like an artist than a captain. How did this boy become a Magic Knight and a captain? Okay, he had discussed about the procedure for the rebuilt and the teams with her and the captain of the Purple Orcas, but still!
"Oh, and I need to know about the food too. Since I'm together with Charmy, I also love to paint food and I'm sure she would love to know what kind of food you eat in Hino, she would certainly love it!"
Wait a minute… He was together with Charmy? The little chief of the Black Bulls that looked so much like the Ochaamii? Why did no one mentioned that before? Well, Charmy had said his name like she was praising a god when Sukehiro explained the other squad captains to Ryuya-sama, but still.
Although, those two make a good couple. Just as excited as the other about what they loved to do the most.
And certainly equally overwhelming sometimes.
"Young master, would like a nice cup of tea? And the waffles you love so much, with whipped cream."
"Oh, yes, thank you Walt!"
Grateful for the break, Ichika took the opportunity to slip away. This right now had been really overwhelming and she was grateful to captain Rills servant to distract his master, allowing her to go.
Although… servant, really? If no one would have told her, Ichika would've assumed that this old man called Walter was captain Rills grandfather, given the genuine affection for each other she read within their respective Kis.
Right now, it was lunch break and everyone took a pause from their work. Ichika would have preferred to continue the whole day, given how much was to repair. But even she knew very well that without any breaks from time to time, everyone would end up being unable and too hurt to work.
As far as Ichika could judge so far, the Aqua Deers and the Purple Orcas might be very different squads from the Black Bulls, but very capable still, well led and perfectly able of teamwork. She had enjoyed working with them so far, despite the overwhelming artist captain of the Aqua Deers. She had felt nothing but respect and kindness towards her from each of those knights.
Except from a Purple Orca with long bright purple hair, called Xerx Lügner, but he was the exception and he still didn't try to openly show his distrust towards her. As if he had made bad experience before for being disrespectful towards foreigners and now knew better than to openly show it.
Still, his negative feelings towards her made Ichika think. Was this the kind of attitude her brother had to deal with when he came at the shores of Clover? How long had people been unfair to him before Sukehiro meet people who came to like him, to respect him, to take him in?
Was that the reason why he created a squad which accepted the kind of people the rest of the world would considered misfits? Giving them a home?
That was… actually wonderful on his part, more than kind and it explained even more why Asta held Sukehiro in such a high esteem. Why he was angry when she accused him of massacring their whole clan.
Of course, she hadn't known the truth back then. But still…
To be honest, Ichika felt quite unsure and confused on what she should feel about her brother right now. It just didn't want to be simple. He wasn't a monster, he tried to protect her back then by taking the blame and he gave a home to people considered misfits here in Clover. But… she still ended up hurt and full of hatred afterwards. Hasn't been there other solutions? Although, how would any thirteen year old feel and being able to do, with all those circumstances?
Was she still important to Sukehiro, after all those years? He had made himself a new family here, does she still have a place then? Ichika hated to have thoughts like this about her brother, uncertainty was never good to rational thinking.
Not to mention that most of the Black Bulls were like Asta, they had Yami in high esteem. And for some reason, most of them assumed that it would be the same for her, since she was her sister.
If they found out that she hated him once and accused him of a big massacre, would they react like Asta and attack her?
If they found out that she was confused about what she should feel towards her brother, would they be disappointed, upset maybe? Angry that she didn't give her brother the same affection they had for him?
Ichika had no answers to that and she wasn't sure if she wanted to try it out. She remembered how angry Asta was and how Magna expected her to help him to defend Sukehiro from Nachts words.
Speaking of Nacht… He might be the only one of the Black Bulls who wouldn't be mad at her that she was confused about what she should feel towards Sukehiro. She felt it in his Ki, she saw it when both men interacted. There was some tension, while no hatred and Nacht clearly didn't put Sukehiro on a pedestal. On the contrary, he was very rude with truth even with his own captain, calling him an idiot sometimes, and this morning, after Sukehiro just remained in the bathroom since yesterday evening, he didn't hide what he was thinking about this attitude.
And the fact that Nacht wouldn't blame her for being confused about Sukehiro, her own brother, was somehow reassuring for Ichika.
The Black Bulls seemed kind and welcoming, but she still felt tense a bit around them. Maybe it would be better once she spent some time in Clover? She would be here for a while, after all and she had no other choice than to deal with her issues. Her brother was here and they had a lot to talk about.
But he was just as awkward around her as she was around him. How must he feel about the situation? Ichika hadn't dared yet to read his Ki too deeply and in detail. Somehow, she was afraid of what her brother could really feel about her presence in his new homeland. A stupid fear, but she couldn't help it.
They needed to talk, though.
And this country needed to be rebuild, to thrive again.
Could it thrive, though? With that incompetent buffoon on it's throne? Ichika tried to net get her anger overwhelm her. This man wasn't made to be a ruler, he dared to insult Ryu-sama and he even insulted one of his own people. Noelles older brother. Ichika didn't know why he got insulted as well, as he seemed very competent and serious, so much better than this so-called king.
The three queens from the neighbour countries seemed so much more mature than this Clover king, even the little child and she would have the best excuses to not be competent yet, due to her age.
Ichika couldn't help but wonder what Nacht would think about this…
What was wrong with her lately? She had so many personal issues that didn't leave alone while she had to complete her duty and helping to rebuild this kingdom, while her thoughts always lead her back to the vice-captain of the Black Bulls!
Yes, she had admitted that she found him… interesting. But THAT interesting? Ever since she saw him crying during one of her nights here in Clover, it was somehow as if Nacht has branded himself in her mind. She had felt compassion for him and the mystery around him almost reminded her a bit on her own.
Wasn't it strange? She barely knew him and except for the fight against Lucius Zogratis, they barely had any time to talk properly so far.
And still…
"Oh, miss Ichika?"
Ichika turned around, but relaxed as she saw that it was Kaiser Granvorka, the captain of the Purple Orcas.
During their teamwork, she came to appreciate this man. He was serious on his duties, calm, respectful, polite and kind, talking to her when they had some time and honestly… normal in a very soothing way. From what Ichika learned about him, he was actually retired before. But after his predecessor was found to be a traitor and the squad became truly corrupted, captain Kaiser came back from his retirement to take over and to make his old squad honourable again. In which he seems to have succeeded, given the knights Ichika had worked with today so far. She admired how he came back to help his squad thrive again and respected him for that. Not to mention that he had very fascinating yoryoku. Ichika never witnessed vortex yoryoku before, but it was intriguing and in matters of repair, very handy to find or transport debris.
"My wife baked some madeleines this morning. Would you want some?"
He presented her some little fluffy cakes in a basket, in a rather strange form, like a boat with a bump on the top. Curious, Ichika took one. They were as fluffy as they looked like and very delicious.
"Hm, we don't have something like that in Hino."
"Oh, what sweets do you have then?"
"One of my favourites is mochi, this is a rice ball filled with red beans most of the time, but it can also be eaten salty. Or taiyaki, this is a pastry in fish form."
"It sounds interesting. My wife would certainly love to try these, she loves sweets and bakery. Maybe I could bring her there one day. After my second retirement, that is."
"You would deserve that. I find it quite admirable that came out of your retirement to put things on the right path again for your squad."
"It wasn't easy and I admit that sometimes, I would love to just retire again immediately. But someone has to step up. I love my squad and it broke my heart to see what has become out of the Purple Orcas. This is why I volunteered when the Wizard King searched for someone to replace my predecessor."
"I think that you have done a wonderful job so far, the teamwork I had today was great."
"I'm really happy to hear it. Are you enjoying your stay in Clover so far, miss Ichika?"
"Given the circumstances, probably yes. I might enjoy to visit more, but right now I'm mostly here to fulfil my duty."
"You are very serious about your job. I must admit, this one of the differences I noticed between you and your brother. No offence to him, but he is a bit too laidback. Oh, I hope you won't be offended that I've said that."
"Not at all, I witnessed the same. And you are still very respectful towards Sukehiro."
Not like the king, probably.
They went silent and Ichikas thoughts wandered again towards her personal issues, her brother and this fascination towards Nacht that started slowly to irritate her. With that in mind, it was pretty difficult to enjoy her stay in Clover yet. Which was understandable, but she saw people still trying to laugh together and to enjoy despite what happened a few days ago. Or maybe because of it. She would like to be able to do this again with them, but sadly she wasn't used to things like that.
Captain Kaiser must have noticed that something was bothering her, but thankfully respected her silence. She wasn't sure that she would have handled curiosity well right now.
"I will call everyone back to work, but you can have a few moments more for yourself, if you want."
"I'll join you in a few minutes."
Captain Kaiser nodded with a small smile, before he gave her another of those fluffy cakes called madeleines, which she appreciated. After the behavior of the king yesterday, Ichika had feared would be like him, but so far, when it came to the Magic Knights, she only met kind and respectful people.
It would have been more difficult to deal with everything if the majority of the Cloverians were like their king. And Ichika felt herself way more sensitive, not as stoic as she used to be… before she faced her fears and memories. She was still able to put up a mask, but behind it? She felt like a mess. It was too much chaos in her soul and she had no idea how to put order again or were to start in the first place.
Ichika wondered if Sukehiro left his toilet at this point. She didn't understood why he had to sudden urge. Was this his way to try to avoid reality and potential consequences? Or has it something to do with blonde woman, Charlotte Roselei was her name?
No need to read Ki to notice the sexual tension between those two. It was difficult to imagine that her brother even fell in love during his life in Clover, but she had witnessed it with her own eyes. Still, it was also obvious that those two weren't together yet and Ichika find it strange. Since they loved each other, why weren't they together yet? Was there another drama or were those two just idiots?
From Sukehiro, it wasn't that surprising at this point. But Charlotte Roselei didn't the make the impression to be stupid on Ichika.
She wondered if Nacht had noticed it as well…
There, her thoughts came again to the vice-captain of the Black Bulls? What was wrong with her? Her fascination for him started to scare her a bit. As if she didn't have so much duty and personal issues to focus on already.
Ichika left her spot swiftly to join the Aqua Deers and the Purple Orcas. Working would be a good distraction, at least she hoped.