Chapter 36: Worth of a Friendship
He didn't sleep that night, turning this puzzle repeatedly around in his mind.
She fought for her kingdom, although to what extremes eluded him. Her willingness for that had to be her own; based on Shuichi's evident pride in her.
Gaara thought back; then change felt necessary and now it was a discarded desire.
Her awestricken eyes, her hopeful words, her worried expressions plagued him. How was he supposed to ignore this?
Her words echoed in his mind, the ending of their conversation. "Civility would be for the best. Friendships aren't worth much. So for everyone's sake, leave this here."