Dawn just started when Vanessa woke up. Mostly because she felt Nozels arms slowly disappear from around her as he sat up. She grabbed them before he let her go completely. Nozel had a soft chuckle as she let out a tired groan.
She never was a morning person and like a cruel irony, Nozel was someone who always woke up early in the morning. Not only did this mean that Vanessa got the habit to wake up earlier as well since one year and a half, but also that Noelles excuse from her first days as a Black Bull – "Royals never get up early." – couldn't work anymore.
Vanessa was still so unfamiliar with royalty that she still didn't know if Noelles excuse was just that, an excuse, or if Nozel was just an exception between royals. But the fact was here. That change of waking up when she was with him really was a pain for Vanessa, even though she shouldn't complain. The sunrises when she was flying home were mesmerizing and she never knew how the fresh air of mornings could feel so good while flying on a broom. Maybe a change of habit wasn't that bad from time to time.
Even though she felt that change of habit pretty good in her body, as it was rather painful. A necessary evil, the nights with Nozel were more than worth it.
"Vanessa, we both need to work again today," Nozel argued, even though he didn't try anything to get out of her grip. To Vanessas greatest joy.
"We still have hours before that and it's so early! Can we please lie in this comfortable giant bed a bit longer? It's so comfy and big and just like a cloud."
Vanessa giggled as she heard Nozel sigh in defeat. But he didn't argued back, for once. Which was probably due to his grieving moment last night.
Nozel so clearly had needed that, a moment to grieve his mother. It was probably even an urgent necessity, since he clearly hadn't been able to grieve properly… since seventeen or sixteen years, if she remembered correctly.
All those details Nozel told her about his mother last night, Vanessa couldn't forget them and even less how he talked about the late Acier Silva. She already knew that Noelle missed her mother, despite having no memories of her. Noelle barely talked about Acier Silva, but it was clear as crystal that this loss weighed on her still.
And she wasn't the only one suffering from this loss. Vanessa already saw glimpses of Nozels pain before, but never as clear since last night. He had memories of Acier Silva, it seems that he was even at her side when she died… How must this have felt for a teenage boy loving his mother, to see her die in front of his own eyes? Not to mention that no adult had been there to guide him during this difficult time and Nozel even had to take over his own house at such a young age.
No wonder he had never been able to grieve properly.
Vanessa found it even more tragic since he clearly had such a good bond with his mother. Not something she could relate to, sadly. How Nozel touched his mother's stuff with such a care, how he talked about each memory… It had pained Vanessa and made her wonder how the Silva siblings would have ended up if Acier Silva wouldn't have died.
Or if there had been at least one responsible adult to guide them during their difficult times. No wonder the Silvas ended up as a fucked up family. No excuse for Noelles treatment, but a new perspective and some more understanding. Vanessa wondered how Nebra and Solid felt that grief, that loss. If her math was correct, Solid only had been four years old or younger, he probably also barely had any memories of his mother. And Nebra was maybe eight or nine back then, how must this have felt for her.
Vanessa had so many questions still, but she hold herself back to ask them. It was already such a difficult subject for Nozel and the Silvas in general, even more after what happened with Lucius Zogratis, with the paladin of Acier Silva. It was already so difficult to make Nozel open up, she didn't want to risk it more than necessary. Push him too much and he would bottle up himself even more than before.
She meant every word last night. That if he needed to cry, to grieve his mother, she would be there. Nozel clearly needed that and despite having nothing to do with the history of house Silva, Vanessa was ready to be the shoulder for him to cry on. He couldn't wait for someone more familiar to be ready for this task, he needed someone now.
Last night was certainly not the last time. It had break Vanessas heart to see Nozel like this. For a moment, she didn't saw the full grown adult anymore, not the brave captain of the Silver Eagles. Just a lost teenager grieving for his beloved mother. Nozel hadn't seen it, but Vanessa did cry as well. Overwhelmed by compassion.
Vanessa opened her eyes slowly, to see Nozel half lying, half sitting against the pillows, looking at his bedroom and seeing something else. It would certainly not be the last time he would cry and grieve his mother. But maybe, now that he allowed himself, the next times will be easier. It already looked like as if a part of his burden had disappeared. Hopefully it was indeed the case, not an impression she had.
She sat up herself and hugged him tightly from behind. Nozel didn't back off, which made her heart race a bit.
"You really didn't found me pathetic last night?"
"No, of course not."
"I… I think you're the first person who ever allowed to properly grieve… since my mother died."
Vanessa wasn't surprised at all about this fact. It even upset her. Who was the jerk who thought that it was a good idea to leave four children who just lost their mother all by themselves and that a fifteen year old grieving teenager should be alone taking responsibility directly?
She blow a soft kiss on his shoulder, in an attempt to calm him down. She was always rather surprised how soft his skin was and it was always wonderful to feel it against her own. Not to mention his muscles.
He felt so warm right now. Vanessa was still amazed by it. That Nozel could be so warm behind his cold mask.
"Thank you for that…"
Vanessa felt the blood rush to her face. Did Nozel just thanked her? Nozel Silva, the captain of the Silver Eagles and the head of the royal house of Silva? And even more, it was so genuine…
"You don't need to thank me, handsome. You needed that, after all, and you deserve to move on properly."
If Nozel would have been able to properly grieve all those years ago, if there had been an adult to guide him and his siblings… maybe the Silva would have been able to move on and everything that happened with Noelle would have never existed. Vanessa of course had resented Nozel at first about how he treated his sister. But… Noelle did forgive him and the roots, the circumstances and the whole situation had been more complex than Vanessa had thought originally. She probably still didn't know everything yet, but after seeing Nozel trying so much to make amends and after realizing what he'd been through himself, Vanessa came to forgive him.
If Noelle was able, then she was as well.
Today, Nozel became in a way as important to her as the Black Bulls. Which was ironic, given of that they had just sex together. Or at least, it was the official description Vanessa gave it, until she find the real one.
Because the way she cared for him, the way she loved being with him, that was more than just sleeping together!
That dangerous, slippery and unknown territory again… Or was it just like that in Vanessas mind?
She heard Nozel sigh. He certainly had still some doubts about himself, about his grief. It would be certainly difficult for him to finally move on from the trauma after so long. Sixteen years, or was it seventeen?
But Vanessa was somehow certain that Nozel will pull it through. She knew he was strong, he had with no doubt a lot of inner strength. To go through all that without screwing the world and leaving everything behind, to face his mistakes instead of excusing himself, to still be able to care after all this loneliness…
Yes, Nozel was definitely strong despite his misery.
Did he even realized it?
"Hey, don't forget, if you need to cry again, I'll be here."
"I don't want to be a burden for you, Vanessa."
"You're not a burden at all, Nozel."
He really wasn't and Vanessa would rather be put on Charmys food-timeout than considering Nozel as a burden, even for one second. She didn't like that he considers himself that way, it almost sounded as if he didn't see himself as important. Which kinda reminded her of Noelle during her first days as a Black Bull. Was this a family thing?
At the same time, Vanessa also hoped that she wasn't a burden for him. She didn't know much about royalty and everything bond to it, but it would be so heartbreaking if Nozel wouldn't be able to do his duty because of her.
Woah, she really cared a lot more about that than she thought she would…
Deciding that he needed a small treat – or was it her who needed a little distraction? – Vanessa changed her position so that she was in front of Nozel and put her lips on his, cupping his face in the process.
If Nozel was taken aback by the kiss, he didn't show it. Instead, he wrapped his arms around tightly her waist, deepening the kiss. While they made out, they fell back on the mattress and Vanessa jumped on the opportunity to run her fingers through his hair.
So thick, yet still so soft and silky… It was a dream to run her fingers, even her hands through it.
The kiss stopped as her fingers almost reached the braid. Vanessa couldn't tell who broke the kiss first. Maybe both? She sometimes had the strange feeling that she and Nozel were more or less in sync.
"Sorry, handsome," she chuckled, letting go of his hair this instance.
"Don't apologize. It's just… you know… I'm very peculiar about my hair."
"Oh yes, I know that and not only about the braid. Noelle is also peculiar about her hair. Maybe even more than you, but she probably has to, since Zora and Magna always make fun of the hair colour, claiming that grey is an old people colour."
"It's not grey, it's silver."
Vanessa chuckled. Gosh, this sounded exactly like Noelle and it was so darn adorable! They truly were siblings, even more similar than anyone would think at first. She wondered if those two would be flustered, upset or happy about it. Given how much Noelle still looks up to Nozel despite everything and given how much Nozel still cared for Noelle despite the painful past, Vanessa liked to think that the siblings might be happy to have similarities with each other. And also being flustered, after all Nozel and Noelle were Silvas.
Wasn't it a funny coincidence too that their names were practically sounding similar? Or has the late Acier Silva done it on purpose?
"Don't worry, I'm not like Zora and Magna, I like your hair colour. I find silver even more prettier than gold."
"Really? I… thank you, Vanessa."
Oh, wasn't Nozel the cutest one when he was flustered like that? That was one of the reasons why Vanessa liked to tease him in the first place. It was such a sight to see Nozel blushing, it gave him so many genuine feelings instead of the cold mask and please, it made him so handsome!
"So… Sugar, I'm actually upset about today."
"Why? Have I done something wrong?"
"Of course not, silly eagle. Stop consider yourself guilty all the time. No, I'm upset because my squad won't be working with yours today."
Vanessa knew that her pout wasn't really played, she truly would have loved to work more with the Silver Eagles today, as it was an occasion to see Nozel more often. But she still felt some satisfaction as Nozel chuckled at her pout. It was such a beautiful sound, maybe one of her favourites at this point.
"We have agreed that it would beneficial for the repairs the teams shall change each day. It would also help the squad to get even more used to team up, as it had been a key to defeat Lucius Zogratis."
"I know, vice-captain Nacht mentioned something about that. But if the Black Bulls don't work together with the Silver Eagles, I won't be able to see you anymore during the day and that sucks."
Nozel didn't answer. Vanessa didn't know if it was because he wasn't as addicted to her as she was to him – which she highly doubted, given how he was very considerate towards her – or if he would have loved to see her more often as well during the day – which she was more sure of… for many reasons.
And not only because she hoped it would be the same for him.
Was she truly going crazy?
She quickly asked something before she started to get on that slippery unknown territory again. "So… who will be today's rebuild partner for the Silver Eagles?"
"The Coral Peacocks."
"Oh, lucky you! Give my fellow Magic Knight witch and also squad captain greetings on my part. Ah, I need to catch up with Dottie one day, it's been a little while."
"Dottie?"
"Captain Dorothy Unsworth, silly eagle. Don't you know that Dottie is a pretty neat nickname for Dorothy?"
Vanessa giggled, but she felt again the strange sting in her heart she already got yesterday, when she saw Nozel talking to his own vice-captain. Holy Witch Hat, she must be really going crazy, feeling jealous like that. Captain Dorothy was colleague with Nozel, given their position and for some reason, she might also be one who knew him a bit better. Noelle did told her one day that Nozel had sent her to captain Dorothy to talk about their mother's curse. And the captain of the Coral Peacocks had known quite a bit about this matter. Wouldn't that mean that Nozel and captain Dorothy were rather close? At least, as much as Nozel was close with captain Fuegoleon and if Vanessa learned a sad truth, it was that this handsome man had been pretty lonely, even with the people closest to him.
Speaking of captain Dorothy, would she truly became the next Witch Queen or had it been just a desperate attempt of the current one to save her legacy? Vanessa knew that the Witch Forest had been saved as well and for now, it seems that everything had gone back to normal. The Witch Queen was still reigning and nothing about a change of ruler had been spoken since.
Vanessa didn't even knew if Dorothy really wanted to become the new Witch Queen. Maybe she wanted to, maybe she stepped in because she saw that Vanessa didn't wanted to. Which was true, Vanessa had absolutely no intention to become the new Witch Queen. She saw how it could be with the current one and she refused to separate herself from the Black Bulls. And Nozel…
Maybe she should talk with Dorothy about this one day, from witch to witch. But hopefully Vanessa wouldn't show any of her jealousy concerning Nozel. Because she needed to understand this new feeling herself in the first place.
"Who will work together with the Black Bulls today?" Nozel asked, thankfully interrupting Vanessas current train of thoughts.
"Hm… If I remember correctly, vice-captain Nacht did say that we'll probably team up with the Blue Roses today. That would be something, working with so many girls."
"Oh."
Nozels voice sounded worried all of a sudden. As if it was concerning that the Black Bulls and the Blue Roses. Vanessa frowned and was about to ask, when Nozel continued softly, "Will this be… okay for you?"
"Why do you ask that?"
"Because of Yami… and Charlotte… and what happened one year and half ago… Will it be okay for you?"
Oh, THAT was his concern. Everything that lead to them getting into that strange affair. How upset she was at captain Charlotte, at captain Yami and at herself, how she let it out onto Nozel just because he happened to be there.
The worst was, Vanessa could totally understand why Nozel was still worried if it would pain her in one way or another.
While she often did thought about their first time recently, about what led to it and who was unknowingly involved to it was another topic entirely. She had wanted to help the captain of the Blue Roses with her confession, but this was put on a hold after she started to sleep with Nozel. Vanessa also had wanted to come to final terms with her old crush on captain Yami, because… well, after the raid in Spade, after captain Charlottes desperate confession, Vanessa did come to a frustrating conclusion.
She never really came to terms with that crush.
Oh, she moved on from it, yes. But she never realized it and knowing her, maybe she ignored it even. Because meeting captain Yami was the first good thing that happened to her when she got out of the cage and in her naivety, she thought it was true love. Who would ever be ready to give up on true love.
In a way, she dug her own grave. She based her favourite type of men on captain Yami only, moved on from her stupid crush without accepting it… only to realized it at captain Charlottes confession, because she didn't felt jealous AT ALL when she heard that desperate declaration of love. Not one bit.
Leaving her as well with a frustration because she wanted to know romantic love still…
She had wanted to help, she had wanted to finally come to terms with her lost duckling crush. But because captain Charlotte and captain Yami had been so uncooperative, Vanessa hadn't been able to do much. The only thing she managed was to get into the strangest affair with another captain, who also happened to be the older brother of one of her squadmates and starting to actually care for him.
It was a weird situation in a way, even for a Black Bull. But Vanessa couldn't regret it. Not with Nozel. It was already so touching that he was worried about her. Of course he was, she had practically told him a lot of her frustration back then, right before they had sex for the first time. Of course he would think it would bother her.
Should she tell him that she didn't had a crush on Yami anymore? She didn't want him to worry, he had already so much on his shoulders.
"It's okay for me, honestly"
"Are you sure?"
Vanessa smiled as she sat up in front of him and cupped his handsome face gently. "Yes, it's okay for me. Really. I was upset back then, yes. But this was over one year ago. The only thing that might frustrate me now still is that those two idiots still haven't properly talked about their feelings. And the only thing I might regret is that I didn't really helped them out like I wanted to at first."
"It isn't your burden to bear."
"That's true. Not to mention that I got rather distracted back then. Right, handsome eagle captain?"
"Oh… that is true. I'm sorry."
"Geez, you don't need to apologize for that. Listen well to me, captain of the Silver Eagles. I don't regret at all what we had since that day. You don't need to accept it yet, I won't force you. But I still want you to know it."
Nozel just looked at her with big eyes, gleaming with surprise and disbelief.
Vanessa smiled softly as she moved her lips towards his. It was a bit sad that Nozel might have such a low opinion about himself. But she meant it. She didn't regret what was between them since one year and a half. Right now, he just needed to be aware of it, he didn't need to accept it today. Hopefully he would one day.
The kiss started out soft, Vanessa flustered with happiness how his fingertips stroked her upper arms. For something that was supposed to be just lust, Nozel was still quite considerate of her.
Maybe it wasn't just lust. Maybe…
Nozel deepened the kiss, now wrapping his arms around her. The passion grew and like always, it made her lose her mind. Vanessa gasped against his lips as Nozel made them roll over the mattress, making out like there was no tomorrow.
It was so easy to forget all the difficulties in his arms. All worries, all uncertainty and she needed this so much. But those mysterious emotions she had for him, those she certainly couldn't forget them at all.
Nozel started to kiss down her jawline, making Vanessa moan with happiness. She stroked upon his muscles, his back, his abs, his smooth skin. Dang it, not even her crush for Yami had felt that way!
Then… could it be…
"You… you said that we still have hours before we need to go to work?"
"Oh, eagle darling, don't tell me that I have convinced you in the end? Do you want it, though?"
"I… I do. But what about you?"
"Nozel, how can I be disgusted by a handsome and knightly gentleman like you?"
Before he could reply, Vanessa dived into the crook on his neck, sucking on a specific spot from which knew that it would eager him. After one year and a half, she had some kind of experience.
The effect was immediate, as Nozel pushed her back on the mattress before disappearing between her legs.
Vanessa smiled. He was so wonderful at satisfying her in so many ways and even better, it wasn't only about lust. It was also that he listened to her rants and remembers every word. Like one year and a half ago, when she told him about the frustration she had with captain Yami and captain Charlotte. Or when she told him about the quirks of the Black Bulls, maybe he knew them by name by now, thanks to her stories.
Nozel wasn't certainly the easiest person and he has his flaws, he has his mistakes. Not to mention everything that happened with Noelle. But he tried so much to make amends, he was considerate once you came to know him better and to appreciate him. It was so difficult to make him understand that he wasn't a horrible person through and through, at least not today. Vanessa never forgot how he got her a bath ready each time she flies to him while it was raining. Or how he would order some food to his chambers when she was hungry. And the Silva chefs were in her books second right after Charmys cooking.
There were many things she came to love about Nozel, things that Vanessa was surprised she appreciated about him. Even when he cried, finally grieving about the death of his mother, she hadn't found it pathetic, but touching.
It was so much more between them than sex… He was… She was…
I love you, Nozel Silva…
This realization was the last clear thought Vanessa had, before Nozel kissed her again senseless, entering her and making them one. But she couldn't forget it anymore.
"You can do this, captain Charlotte!"
"Yes, there is nothing to worry about. That kiss gave you just another reason to talk with captain Yami!"
"And today we are working together with the Black Bulls, it is such a golden opportunity! No, a platinum opportunity! Don't miss it!"
Charlotte didn't replied, her girls didn't even let her time to do so anyway. She was really grateful they were so supportive about her romantic endeavours concerning Yami, but she felt still overwhelmed by it more than once.
Not to mention that it didn't really helped her having calm thoughts about that kiss. On the contrary. Each time she was alone, that kiss came back to her mind, turning around with her thoughts and no matter what she tried, it was impossible to find a distraction. Even worse, in her fantasies, that kiss was even more passionate than what Charlotte remembered and it had already been very passionate when it happened in reality.
Add to this that it wasn't only the kiss that haunted her mind. She now got more daydreams than before, not fleeting anymore, about other kisses and even… even… even about BEING with Yami in a BED!
Charlotte never had sex before, of course not. But that only made it worse in a way. How morally depraved did she become to have thoughts like that? About Yami, about the man she could never stop loving?
Was it because she started to lose patience after being hopelessly in love with him for over a decade? Well, she only had herself to blame for that, as the only thing she managed to do was to have admitted her love for him to her squad. And a desperate love confession which Yami never heard in the first place. Not a good achievement for ten years.
Okay, she could also argue that Yami was so terribly dense despite his Ki reading and that it was terribly frustrating, but still. It felt so wrong to blame him.
Hopefully, he finally got the message with the kiss. After all, a kiss should be a very clear indication about her feelings for him, right? Even someone as dense as Yami Sukehiro should get the memo with that!
Was it too much to ask for, though? He certainly didn't run away just like she did afterwards for no reason.
But on the other hand, him running away was something that gave her hope. More or less. Because running away was definitely so unlike him. Was he as overwhelmed by the kiss as she was? Was he wondering about it?
The letter she got last night definitely gave her some hope as well. And apprehension. This was Yami Sukehiro after all and she was in love with him for roughly ten years at this point. She had so many emotions at the same time when it comes to him these days and she was so easily overwhelmed. It was a miracle she hadn't faint so far.
While the Blue Roses were waiting for the Black Bulls with excitement, Charlotte quickly got the letter out of her pocket. She hadn't told her girls about it yet. They were already happy to work with the Black Bulls today, if they would learn that she also got a letter from Yami himself… No, Charlotte was dealing with enough excitement right now, not to mention that the letter wasn't really the kind of love letter her girls liked to imagine.
Hey, Prickly Queen
You really are a troublesome woman, you know that? I guess it's not your fault though. I know that you're a nice girl, so you really haven't put me inside on purpose. But you should know by now that I have a delicate little heart of glass that hurts easily. Don't forget that I'm a Virgo, just like you.
That kiss we shared really made me go crazy. I've spent an entire night and parts of the next morning on the toilet because of that. I even forgot that my squad had to work with the Silver Eagles for rebuilding the kingdom, everyone was gone when I got out. Damn, my vice-captain and Bird Braid will never let me hear the end of it and that I hate. Nacht never misses an occasion to criticise how I do as a captain (I can't be that bad, right?) and now I gave Nozel a fucking good reason to be upset with me.
What have you done to me, woman?
I think we really need to talk to each other. Too bad that there are no cafés or pubs open. But I really want that fucking tea with you! Sorry I wrote fucking, but being polite while writing is more difficult than while talking.
Our dumbasses will work together tomorrow. Or today, whatever time you get this letter. Or read this. Whatever. Hope we can talk then. And please don't run away this time, it'll break my poor little heart. Okay, to be fair, I also promise that I won't jump out of a window as well.
See ya, Prickly Queen
Yami
P.S.: Or Sukehiro. Sorry, I'm just used to sign with Yami since I'm here in Clover. Can anyone get confuse by the very own name? Never would have thought that it would happen to me of all people.
He didn't have the best handwriting, there were spots on ink all over the paper and there were some mistakes. But Charlotte couldn't care less. It was the first time she ever got a letter from Yami and this meant so, so much to her. Also, what he wrote… it was so typical of him. Did he really spent one whole night on the toilet because he got so confused and overwhelmed by that kiss? Charlotte wasn't even surprised about that. But he also wrote that he really wanted to talk to her. He wanted to talk to her, he really wanted to talk to her so badly! She never dared to dream about it before and now it was actually real? Oh, please the Heavens, she needed help to not screw it up this time.
A portal appeared suddenly in front of the Blue Roses, revealing the Black Bulls. Yami was with them, thank goodness. And at the same time, Charlotte felt anxious. But she refused to show any kind of overwhelming emotions. Despite the emotional wreck she was right now, Charlotte couldn't forget what their duties were today, what they needed to achieve in order to help this kingdom heal.
Thank goodness she was rather good at being professional. She came over the Black Bulls to greet them. Except Asta, who was still in a coma, everyone was present. And even before she had the change to look directly at Yami, Charlotte could practically feel his eyes on her. Oh, please, hopefully she won't lose her professionalism.
"Good morning, everyone. I hope you're doing fine."
"Thank you, captain Charlotte. We're right on time, thank goodness," Finral replied, as polite and kind as ever.
"And we managed to bring our captain with us this time," Zora added with a smug grin. "Yesterday, he remained on the toilet for probably some stupid reason. You can go hard on him, Blue Rose cap'."
"Dang it, Zora, way to stab your own captain in the back, you jerk!"
"Consider this as a pay out because you left us alone yesterday."
Charlotte hold herself back, she didn't know if it was a laugh or a guilty whine. Because she was the stupid reason why Yami remained on the toilet the day before. But she would be damned if she ever mentioned that to the Black Bulls. Yami was already never hearing the end of it and she knew that her squad would love to know more details. Oh no, what if they actually started to talk to Yami in a very obvious way? This would haunt her for the rest of her days and she ignored how to make stop. It had already been quite difficult yesterday to NOT make them ask advice from Dorothy!
Too bad for her, the Blue Roses approached the Black Bulls and of course, Puli had the guts to ask, "Oh, captain Yami, don't you think that captain Charlotte looks absolutely gorgeous today?"
"Uh? Yeah, I guess so… Well, she looks like always to me."
Charlotte hold back a groan, because this sounded like a typical comment from Yami. A bit like back then during that mixer, when he commented how she must be cold in the pretty dress she wore. She was so used to it by now, that maybe, just maybe, it would take her by surprise if he would genuinely compliment her. Why couldn't she gave him some credit for a change? At least from time to time?
Yami seemed confused and Charlotte could see how a lot of the Black Bulls were like this as well. Gosh, how embarassing! She loved her squad, she truly did. But it was in moments like this were she wished that the Blue Roses would hold themselves back with their romantic enthusiasm. Magna Swing and Luck Voltia seemed as confused as their captain. Finral Roulacase looked almost as embarrassed as she was, the young woman called Grey even more. Nacht Faust looked so done and she couldn't blame him for that. Zora Ideale and Gauche Adlai either didn't care or probably find them all stupid. Lady Noelle Silva seemed confused as well, but not as dense as Yami, Magna and Luck, as she frowned while looking at Charlotte. Charmy Pappintson was just eating something that looked like a cupcake, Henry Legolant just smiled. Only Gordon Agrippa, who standing very close to Henry, seemed like to realize what the Blue Roses had in mind and smiled at her with sympathy. Wasn't he part of the mixer too, back then?
At least, it was a small relief that Gordon knew and had some compassion.
Too bad that Galgaria now replied to Yamis comment, "Indeed, captain Yami, our beloved captain is always breathetaking. I'm sure you have noticed that already."
"I guess so? We often sit next to each other during captains meeting."
"Really?"
"How wonderful!"
"You must feel so blessed!"
"I am?"
Yami now looked even more confused, which only made Charlottes embarrassment bigger. It didn't help that the Blue Roses were now listing all of her qualities, except for Sol who, while agreeing about the qualities, seemed like she wanted to either pout or despair, poor girl. Add to this that Nacht, Finral and Noelle were now glaring at their captain as if he was so terribly stupid. Gordon too, but his glance was way more sympathetic.
She heard a sigh and for the first time today, Charlotte looked at the witch, Vanessa Enoteca. She looked as she was a bit frustrated by something, but there was a glimmer in her eyes. Has it something to do with Yami?
Charlotte didn't hate Vanessa. On the contrary, she would prefer to be on really good terms with her. But… That stupid sting of jealousy just never left her, especially since that stupid competition they had over Yami so long ago. Why was she still worked out about it? It was pretty clear that Yami wasn't romantically interest in the witch or any of the other Black Bulls.
It just didn't help that Vanessa Enoteca was a truly beautiful woman, that she wear revealing outfits, that she flirts with anyone, even with Yami, that she was in the same squad and by that, saw him more often than Charlotte and…
STOP! You're only hurt yourself, Charlotte! Calm down and act normal! And be nice towards the witch!
Thank goodness Risacca stepped in and stated that they shall better start with today's rebuild. Charlotte was really grateful to have a vice-captain like her. Risacca might be as supportive as the rest of the Blue Roses when it came to her feelings for Yami, but she was also always the first one to actually calm down the enthusiasm when needed. Putting up her professionalism again, Charlotte agreed and suggested how the teams shall be and what was the most urgent repairs to do. Risacca and Nacht agreed, while Yami just nodded and that only because his own vice-captain pushed him with his elbow.
Did she really confused him beyond repair? Goodness, WHAT has she done to the man she loved?
This thoughts just couldn't left her mind, even during the rebuild and giving orders to both Blue Roses and Black Bulls. What a time to be an emotional wreck, just after their kingdom witnessed an apocalypse. Why couldn't she got something like that when everything was still fine? But this was probably too much to ask for.
Yami and her didn't got the occasion to talk during the morning, which Charlotte welcomed and cursed altogether. It was a good thing, because she still had no idea how to start the whole talk with him. But at the same time, this was just postponing and the more she waited, the longer she will be that emotional wreck.
Besides, shall she wait for him to make the first move? Or was it her task to fulfil? After all, she kissed him and not the other way around. But at the same time, he kissed her back. With that kind of thoughts, she would never advance!
In the end, it was finally him who made the first move. When lunch break just started and she was getting ready to have some food from Charmy, Yami suddenly appeared next to her and dragged her with him.
Well, this was it then… The moment she was so anxious and also so excited about. Even though it was still a big unknown for her.
Yami brought her into a small house that had been completely destroyed. It was just ruins, but at least they had some privacy. Something that was more than needed, given the unsaid things between them and how their respective squads were.
"You got my letter, Prickly Queen?"
"Yes, I got it last night. And I reread it more than once since."
"Ouch… Don't tell my handwriting was this bad. Or have done too many mistakes? Maybe Nacht was right, maybe I relied too much on my wheels to write things for me. Old man Julius and that beanpole Jack must laugh their asses of up there."
"No, that's not it! Although, you really should stop to put so much of your duties on Finral and your handwriting really isn't the best, I must say."
"For fuck's sakes, Prickly Queen, do you have to be so harsh on poor old me, your Virgo colleague? Think about my poor little and delicate heart of glass for a moment, it breaks so easily."
"I wasn't… Well, what I mean with rereading your letter is… It meant a lot for me, especially coming from you. That is why I reread it so much. After all, there are a… a lot of unspoken things between us. Not only since the whole war against Lucius Zogratis, but also… for long before that. Probably longer than you realize. It's just… I don't know how to put into words. And we really need that tea date to discuss everything between us the best way possible. During repairs, while we're doing our duty… well…"
"It's not the best place, I know that myself, Prickly Queen. Gosh, we really need to repair things as quickly as possible, so that the stupid cafés and pubs can get open again! You might not realize it, but my poor delicate heart can't take it to wait for this tea for, I don't know, ten years or somethin'."
Charlotte did her best to not laugh. First, he was impatient after not even a week, despite everything that happened? Well, what could she say then, she merely started to lose patience after ten years. And second, did he really believed that they could only got their tea date in a café and nowhere else?
"Yami… have you ever consider the possibility that we can bring some tea to each of our places? Either I bring some to you or you bring some to me. We don't need to go into a café for that."
And I don't have such patience myself, but I won't admit this to you yet.
Yami just looked at her as if she just grew two more heads. Then the realization seemed to finally make click, as he started to grin. Oh, that grin! Why did she love it so much and why did she love how it could piss her of as well?
She must be a lost cause.
"Damn it, Prickly Queen, this is actually some hell of an excellent idea! Why haven't I thought about that before?"
"I don't know. After all, you do some picknicks and barbeques with your squad. But to be honest, I haven't thought about immediately as well."
"But you still thought about it way before me! Ya know what? I'll bring tea to you one of these days. After all, I suggested it, it is only fair. And even better, I won't need to pay for anything. Free meals or free teas are always the best."
"Especially when others are paying for your free meals, am I right?"
"What can I say, Prickly Queen? Free meals are the best and I usually don't have the money to get some."
Charlotte was about to tell him that he was pretty much known to gamble and lose, but hold herself back. It felt actually good to more or less talk so casually with Yami, she didn't want to spoil it. Would it be like that once they would be together? Oh no, how impatient was she that she already started to imagine their daily life and routine as a couple, while they weren't even a couple yet?
They had went silent for a minute and Charlotte suspected that Yami was just as much in thought as she was.
He was pretty happy when he realized that they didn't need to wait for the cafés to reopen to have their tea. But he quickly went quite again, with a pensive look which was so unlike him that Charlotte couldn't help but ogling at him. What a rare sight and how good it looks on Yami…
It was only when started back at her that Charlotte look away. Goodness, being caught ogling. She would never hear the end of it.
But Yami didn't tease her, like she expected it. Instead, he asked calmly, "Prickly Queen, would you help me find something out?"
"Yes, of course. What shall I do?"
"Just hold still and try to not run away this time."
The next moment, he had cupped her face and put his lips on hers, which froze Charlotte completely. She couldn't quite grasp what was happening. They had a second kiss and this time, Yami took the initiative? This was… he was… she was…
The kiss was soft at first, but not long after Yami got bolder and practically massaged her mouth, getting wild. His lips left hers for a moment, getting on her jawline and her neck, before going back to her mouth with a hunger that suited him so well.
In the end, Charlotte gave in to the kiss, closed her eyes and put her arms around his neck. She might get overwhelmed about this other kiss afterwards. But it was worth it. Yami was worth it. And if everything went as planned, she wouldn't wait for long anymore until she could finally settle things with him.
Yami now put his arms around her waist and pull her up, so that she couldn't feel the ground under her feet anymore. But Charlotte didn't mind. Nothing seems to matter right now, except the two of them.
"Woah, Noelle, this was actually cool! Don't you want to join the Blue Roses?"
"Still no, but thank you for the offer."
Noelle might be flattered that Sol Marron admired her and her skills, even though it was just washing debris away, but at the same time, why did she need to invite her to join the Blue Roses? Nothing against the Blue Roses, they were a neat squad, but Noelle was a Black Bull and proud of it.
Although working together with other squads, this was something she came to appreciate a lot and hoped that it would happen more often in the future. Having teamwork between all nine knight squads always proved itself, not only against Lucius Zogratis, but also against any other opponent they had in the past.
Not to mention that it allowed Noelle to see her friends from other squads more often. And her siblings.
Too bad that the Black Bulls weren't working with the Silver Eagles today. Noelle could understand that changing the squads was a great opportunity. But it had been great to work with Nozel and Nebra.
Who would have thought that they would start to become a proper family one day? After everything that happened? Noelle even thought once that she would never be close to her siblings and accepted that fact. At least concerning Nebra and Solid, there was always some little hope left in her about Nozel.
And now, she knew more, she was closer to Nozel, she mended her bonds with Nebra and finally had some good memories with them. After fighting the paladin of their mother and worrying about Solid having some high fever, Noelle knew that she was now even closer to her oldest siblings.
Noelle was even happy that she could be both, a Black Bull and a Silva.
If only she could also mend her bonds with Solid. They haven't gotten close over the past year, unlike her and Nebra. And now, he came back from the war with high fever. Hopefully he would get better soon, so that all four of them would heal together and be a family, just like the Black Bulls were to her.
Noelle sighed as she let Sol and Magna finish with the remaining debris. She also didn't want to listen to them anymore arguing about the tiniest topic. She didn't like to worry, she has done that so many times in her life. But with recent events, she had again reasons to. Solid was still in high fever, Asta still in a coma refusing to wake up and then there was that topic about Nozel, about his potential sacrifice for them.
Maybe Nebra shouldn't have told her that, but at the same time, Noelle was glad she learned from her sister and not in another way. It just that it added some extra difficulties with her feelings for Asta. As if she hadn't hesitated enough to tell him how she feels and wasted time with denial for so long. Now she was afraid that her big brother, with whom she finally mend their relationship, would be unhappy for the rest of his life just to assure that she would be happy.
There had to be a way to prevent Nozel from that. Noelle had thought about it a lot and also talked a bit with Nebra about it yesterday. Her brother went already through so much since their mother died, even denied himself so much happiness over the years. Shouldn't he have happy things finally happening to him?
But what could make Nozel happy that would prevent him to sacrifice himself into an arranged marriage?
Despite having gotten closer, there were still a few things she didn't know about her brother and it was truly frustrating. Heck, Noelle knew probably more about Nebra and she only got on better terms with her sister AFTER Nozel.
Noelle walked through todays rebuild area, searching were she could help now, her mind full of Asta and Nozel. Also a bit of Solid, but mostly Asta and Nozel. Why didn't she settled all of her issues long ago, before everything with Lucius Zogratis happened? Especially the paladin of her own mother?
It was such a pain to have issues while also having duties towards your country who just witnessed an apocalypse.
"Oh, Noelle, sweetie! Over here!"
Looking around, she discovered Vanessa waving to her, three young children, two girls and one boy, standing next to her under a porch of a more or less ruined house. What was going on?
Noelle approached, rather curious.
"Sweetie could you please lend me some of your amazing water? This cutie pie here got a small wound while exploring this trappy house with her pals and I need to wash it before I put some of my healing potions onto it."
Oh, of course. Although Noelle wondered why some young children were here in a rather completely ruined aria. The inhabitants had been evacuated until the repairs were advanced enough for the first ones to return.
Giving a bit of her water to wash the small wound, she couldn't help but ask the children what they were even doing there.
The unwounded girl immediately pointed out at the boy. "It's Guy or rather his older brothers fault! Gil said that we weren't brave enough to go into a ruined house were we shouldn't be, which means that we won't be good enough to be Magic Knights and because of that, my little sister got hurt!"
The boy pouted in respond. "It's not my fault that you are slightly crushing for my brother, Corail. You know that he is a super jerk. And we told Perla that she shouldn't try to climb onto that shelf or whatever was left of it!"
"I just wanted to look better at that tiny box that was on the shelf," the smallest girl sniffed, while Vanessa put a bit of potion on the hand before wrapping it in a small and clean piece of cloth.
Oh, a bravery challenge. With all the things they had put her through when she was a child, this was actually something Nebra and Solid never done to her once. And even if they tried, Noelle doubted that Nozel would have ever allowed it. Despite his mistakes, it was always his almost obsessive worry that she wouldn't be in danger.
It was so strange that her past trauma didn't hurt that much anymore today.
"First of, big brother Gil told you some bullshit," Vanessa said after she finished to care for Perlas wound. "Magic Knights don't do forbidden things. So, you don't need to do forbidden things in order to become one. And it is dangerous to adventure yourself in a destroyed area. Now, if you still want to become Magic Knights, there is nothing that goes against, whatever Gild said. What are your magics?"
"I have coral magic and my sister pearl magic. Our family comes from the shore, this is why we have sea and beach based magics."
"And I have water magic."
"Oh, just like our dear princess here!"
It was only then the three children realized who Noelle was and their sudden surprise and respect was a bit too much Noelle. Being with the Black Bulls made her almost lost her habit to be respected because of her status. Not that she had a lot of it before she became a Magic Knight, given her past reputation.
"You… You are a Silva!"
"A true princess!"
"Your royal Highness!"
"Please, you don't need to bow like that," Noelle replied, blushing intensely. "Like… Like my squadmate told you, it is dangerous to be here at the moment, but we'll do our best to repair as fast as we can."
"In the meantime, we better get you out of here. It was nice talking to you, though. Hey, Finral, Selena! We have some surprise guests here. Could you be nice and bring them back to their parents?"
While Finral and the Blue Rose took Guy, Corail and Perla with them, Vanessa waved at the children and Noelle looked at them. Despite how stupid their idea was, it was nice to see that some normality was coming back, like children having some stupid challenges.
Would also everything go back to normal for the Magic Knights with time? Will Asta wake up soon?
Will she finally be able to tell him how she truly feels about him? Or will she hesitate, because there were also Mimosa and Rebecca? And because the whole thing with Nozels potential sacrifice?
"Noelle, you have that look again."
"What look?"
"Your I-have-something-on-my-mind-that-worries-me-and-I-am-overthinking-it-look. You're quite the expert about it. So, what's on your mind? Come on, tell big sis Vanessa everything, you'll always need a witch ear."
Noelle wasn't quite sure about that. She still wasn't unsure if the Black Bulls would be easy peasy about her better bonds with her siblings. No wonder, after what she'd been through. A lot of the Bulls still were very cautious around Langris, despite Finral being closer to him today. No wonder, the Black Bulls were protective of each other and Vanessa was one of the most protective ones. Noelle wouldn't be surprised if Vanessa didn't like the Silvas that much.
Although… Maybe this wasn't true. Noelle didn't forgot how vehemently Vanessa defended Nozel against Zora yesterday morning. Something unexpected, especially since it almost sounded like when she was defending any of the Black Bulls. Maybe she didn't hate Nozel out of the Silvas?
Not to mention that Vanessa often gave the best advices in the squad. But at the same time, she also had no idea about how nobility and royalty work, what kind of world it was and she often made it clear that for her, it was bullshit and she didn't care. Which was fair, but not helping with nobility issues, much to Finrals chagrin.
"Well… it is about my brother."
"Which one? The poor lad with fever or the gorgeous captain?"
"Vanessa! Stop this… argh, no you won't, of course. It is about Nozel. I am worried about him since Nebra told me something."
"Spill the tea."
"It is a bitter tea. Nebra didn't know it until recently as well. You might not care about it, but Nozel sacrificed a lot for the three of us since our mother died. I know, he did mistakes, but he still give up on so much for us. Well, the point is and long story short… It is not an urban legend, arranged marriages are a thing and very current within nobility and royalty. Nozel is ready to sacrifice himself into such a marriage in order to give Nebra, Solid and myself freedom when it comes to this kind of things."
"Oh."
Oh? This was all Vanessa had to say? Oh? She didn't even sounded that surprised.
"Vanessa, if you're going to tell me that Nozel deserves it because of his mistakes and that he owes it to me, then you should know that I will NEVER accept that someone is unhappy so that I'm happy and-"
"No, Noelle. I will never tell you something like that, really! I don't hate your brother. I just… I started to learn a bit more about the world of nobles and royals lately. Don't ask for the reasons, you're way too young and innocent to hear that."
What was that supposed to mean?
Vanessa sighed, glancing at nothing right in front of her. Noelle frowned. It was an unusual face for her squadmate. Why wasn't she easy going and uncaring about the whole topic? Since when was she more serious about it?
"I understand why you feel that way. Your brother went… well, you told me that he went through a lot and with what I know, um, from what you told me… Well, from the bits you told me, even I can say that he deserves some good things happening to him."
Noelle noticed the hesitance in Vanessas voice. As if she knew something and didn't want anyone else to know. But what possibly could she know about Nozel? And why was she now almost protective of him? Sure, apparently her brother was handsome and Vanessa liked pretty boys, but that couldn't be it, right?
Suddenly, Vanessa had her cheeky smile and despite how familiar it was, Noelle certainly didn't like it.
"Besides, you will never start something with Asta knowing that your brother will sacrifice himself for your happily ever after."
"I don't know what you're talking about!"
Which was a lie, of course she knew. But even to Vanessa, who sadly knew since long, Noelle had never dared to admit her heavy love for Asta. Which was really frustrating at this point and sadly now bonded with her worries for Nozel.
"Come on, Noelle, sweetie… It starts to be frustrating that you just keep yourself in denial about our other little rookie. And-"
"Noelle, Vanessa!"
Both girls turned around, only to see with surprise Gauche running to them. Their squadmate almost run over a Blue Roses, who looked more worried than offended and actually followed him.
Gauche stopped right in front of Noelle and Vanessa, catching his breath. The Blue Rose was actually really nice to pat his back.
"Gauche, what is going on."
"That jerk of a vice-captain and I got news from the doctor. It is Asta. He's…"
If Ichika learned something today, it was that there could be the sweetest person within the same squad and also it's complete opposite. Today, she had worked with the Golden Dawn and the Green Mantises. With the Golden Dawn, she practically interacted mostly with people from the higher classes and within the example of Alecdora Sandler, she learned that not everyone was kind towards foreigners. To be fair to him, he was still polite and a woman named Létoile scolded him for being grumpy.
But Ichika took that lesson at heart. Was this rejection something her brother had to deal with when he landed in Clover? And… had she really this kind of attitude towards Asta when he landed in Hino? There was a fear of the foreign in her home country, this was certain. But before Asta, she never thought twice about it. It made her thought if she had been any better than the people who were like Alecdora Sandler or this stupid arrogant king of Clover. Not an easy conclusion to come about herself.
Thankfully, there were also very kind people in the Golden Dawn. Mimosa Vermillion must be the prime example of that. She was so genuinely welcoming, interested and kind that Ichika had been really flustered by such kindness. Mimosa Vermillion practically took her under her wing, asked questions about Hino and explained many things about Clover to her. This girl also had a fascinating yoryoku, a true expert at healing, but also able to fight and attack.
Ichika also learned that Mimosa was also related to Noelle and to captain Fuegoleon, which means she also belonged to those called royals. And that most members of the Golden Dawn were actually really nice people and not like Alecdora Sandler. The captain, Astas friend Yuno, seemed a bit cold, but still polite. More than the strange spirit creature that sat on his shoulders.
As for the Green Mantises, they were kinda weird for most, but she actually got along with those knights. As for captain En, Ichika first had the impression that he wasn't healthy at all and actually feared for his wellbeing. But it seems that he was always like this and actually very healthy. Captain En only took over this squad very recently, as his predecessor died during the battle against Lucius. With all the rebuild going on, Ichika didn't had too much time for chats, but she learned at least that this captain Jack had been like a friend or a rival for her brother.
Sukehiro…
They still haven't talk with each other yet and Ichika knew that this couldn't continue. She was still unsure how to talk to her brother, sadly. But thanks to the conversation she had with Nacht last night, she knew that she shouldn't fear if she didn't agree with everything about her brother. It helped her to feel like less a monster.
But only when it was about Sukehiro and her current emotions about him. For the rest… Well, she might be one. But even that she couldn't be sure completely. How could she be certain to be a monster when she still ignored the circumstances?
It was so complex and she knew that she needed to talk it out with Sukehiro. Maybe, once she knew and understand, she could finally tell if those guilt feelings were justified or not (Ichika rather tend towards justified for now). And maybe, if she understood, she could move on. Even though moving on seems impossible to achieve.
Ichika wondered what Nacht would think about it… He seemed like he didn't hold himself in high esteem. Ichika didn't believe he was a bad person, a bad person wouldn't have listen to her worry in the middle of the night.
But at the same time, she didn't know Nacht that good, so she couldn't be sure of anything. Just because she find him rather fascinating and except probably captain Kaiser and Mimosa Vermillion, he was the only Cloverian she had the most normal and easy talks with, doesn't mean that…
Well, what exactly?
Why did his opinion interest her that much?
Things really got unusual since Asta came to their shore and Ichika didn't like when her habits took a drastic change. The first time it happened, it had put her world upside down and she still wasn't quite over it.
But at the same time, maybe it wasn't so bad? Maybe this time, it was better because she finally got new perspectives and maybe she could finally find some healing instead of suffering from it until her last breath?
And why was she grateful to have met Nacht?
"Oy, Ichika."
"What is it, Komari?"
"Remember what you always tell me when according to you, I'm thinking too much about potential new outfits? You always said my mind was completely going towards Sunset instead of remaining at noon. Well, I guess this happen to you right now. Which is creeping me out. If your mind is going west, who will remind me to train and hold back my lightning yoryoku, so that I won't hurt civilians?"
Goodness, was it so obvious that she had a lot on her mind that even Komari of all people could see it? Could anyone see how much west she was going right now? Ichika side-glanced towards Yosuga on the other side and he actually had an amused grin while looking at her. Thankfully, only Yosuga and Komari must have realized that she wasn't quite her usual self today.
Make this since a bit more than a week.
Not that she was pretty much needed right now to focus, but still, it was quite unfit for one of the Ryuzen.
Ichika tried very much to stop thinking about her brother, her past and Nacht, focusing on Ryu-sama instead.
While this morning, the three Ryuzen had of course helped with the rebuilds of this country, this afternoon they had joined Ryu-sama for a small reunion between the leaders of Hino, Spade, Heart, Diamond and Clover. Although… that disrespectful Clover King wasn't present and this man named Marx – who was one of the best and most serious people Ichika ever met – was instead discussing the points for Clover.
Just about rough ideas for the near future and first forms for the future alliance between their five countries. Ichika damned herself that she was so lost towards sunset about Nacht that she didn't get any details of this discussion! Okay, it wasn't that important, since it was mostly rough sketches. But what a shame for a Ryuzen!
Except Ryu-sama and Marx, the three queens were also focused, bringing up points and asking very good questions. The Spade Queen, Ciel if Ichika remembered correctly, was practically leading the reunion alongside Ryu-sama. She was treating their shogun as a true equal and for that, Ichika has the highest respect for Ciel-sama.
The Heart Queen, which name was too complicated for Ichika to remember yet, was a bit more easy going and almost easily distracted, especially by her baby belly, but still very focused. Her husband stood behind her seat, helping her when she forgot something and practically looking at her with the most loving eyes. Never had Ichika seen a man looking with so much love at a woman, but it was touching.
As for the little Diamond Queen, Lavendel or Lavender… Well, she would have the best excuses to not be focus on duties yet, since she was a true child. But despite having brought her plushie with her and looking a bit lost between all those adults, she was certainly serious about the whole ordeal, as she had a notebook with her and wrote down from time to time. Maybe to help her to be queen? Ichika had to say, it put the Clover King into a very negative light if even an eleven year old child seemed more capable than him.
"I wish I could do more," Marx just said. "But sadly, as long as we don't have a new Wizard King, king Augustus is the partner and with him, we can't really advance on this alliance project. But…"
"We understand, Marx-sama," Ryu replied with smile. "The repairs of your kingdom are more urgent right now."
"We still shouldn't wait for too long," queen Ciel replied. "If the repairs go smoothly, we can quickly organize the near future more efficiently. And I don't think I can be patient enough to deal with Augustus on the long term. When do you think the Magic Knight Captains could be ready to choose a new Wizard King, sir Marx?"
"I think two weeks might be makable, if the repairs go smoothly. It will certainly give hope to the people again, not to mention to our Magic Knights, to have a new leader. Our last Wizard King lord Julius, may he rest in peace," Marx had some tears in his eyes saying that name, "has left us with a legacy and practically a basis to open new horizons. As for now, I think that each of the captains and other potential candidates will respect and continue what he started."
"Wizard King, Wizard King… would this be good for Diamond?" queen Lavendel muttered, scribbling and softly scratching her head through her bright purple locks with her quill. It was actually very adorable.
"Now, little queen, don't give yourself too much headache. You still have your whole own life in front of you, not only your reign" the man who accompanied her says, a fatherly glance in his eyes. What was his name again, Lotus or something like that?
"Are there some candidates already for the job of Wizard King?" Ryu asked, pensive.
"Four right now. Maybe there's more, if a captain deems a member of their squad worthy, but I have four people in mind that will certainly become the candidates. Fuegoleon Vermillion, Nozel Silva, Asta of course, even though he is still in a coma and your son Yuno, queen Ciel. King Augustus can also propose his own candidate."
"Oh, by the Spade of Winter, please not!" queen Ciel exclaimed. Ichika knew that she liked her. She certainly won't let any fools be in charge under her command and she was certainly one who could put the incapable king into his place.
"Well, those four candidates are already promising and open for the alliance, right? I know Asta, Nozel is Noelles brother, Fuegoleon is very kind and Yuno is Astas friend. So… ouch! Thank you, Gadjah. Sorry, but my baby is moving."
"You are certainly right, Lolopechka-sama. Those four would definitely agree to this alliance. Is there anything else we should focus on, Marx-sama? Oh, little Lavendel, I think you have some ink on your nose, here, take my handkerchief. Maybe we should discuss our rough project with the captains on the next meeting, don't you think?"
"I think that this might be an excellent idea, lord Ryu. Showing some ideas for the near future would certainly be welcomed by them, from what I know from them all. Maybe we could also discuss the topic about the election of the next Wizard King already at the next meeting. I don't think that Augustus wants to be present, but it is certainly for the better and-… Oh, sorry, my communication device. I need to have it on me all the time, in case something happens. Excuse me, your Majesties."
Everyone watched as Marx stood up and got a strange long wand-like object out of his pocket, which top was ornate with some kind of glowing gem. Was this a communication device here in Clover? And for the other three countries as well? Hino didn't had sophisticated things like that, just their messenger owls, storks and seagulls. What a fascinating technology. Ichika wondered if her brother had been as fascinated as her about those strange objects. One more little reason to finally talk to him.
If only it was as easily done as said. Damn her stupid hesitance and uncertainty!
"Hello, here is Marx François? Owen, what news do you have? Please let it be important, I'm in the middle of a meeting with the queens and the shogun, and- What? Really? But those are great news! Thank you for telling me. But still tell Yami to hold his Black Bulls back, so that they won't rush everything."
Marx put that strange object back into his pocket before turning towards the rest of them. There was surprise and happiness gleaming in his eyes.
"Our chief doctor, Owen, just told me that Asta finally woke up from his coma. And while he still needs to rest and stay in the infirmary for today, he is safe and sound."
A huge wave of relief washed over Ichika as she heard the news. Despite how everything started between her and Asta, despite how she was still unsure how to deal with his rather annoying positivity, she was so relieved that he was back with them.
The first relief since very long for her. Ichika kinda liked the feeling. She hoped to have some more of it in the near future.