Chapter 05

Together, Our Promise

The esteemed Girl Fight Festival had concluded, and Einhard had emerged as the champion. The news spread like wildfire, filling everyone's hearts with admiration and pride. Colorful banners fluttered in the wind outside the arena, and spectators lingered to revel in the day's excitement. Inside the medical bay, the sharp scent of antiseptic hung in the air, mingling with the murmur of voices and the occasional clatter of medical tools. Ave navigated through the bustling corridors, his heart racing with a mix of relief and excitement.

The hum of conversation faded into the background as his mind replayed Einhard's incredible final match—the precise movements, the fierce determination in her mismatched eyes, and the triumph that had earned her the championship crown. Pride swelled in his chest, pushing away the lingering worries from watching her gruelling battles. Each step toward the recovery room was a testament to his resolve to be there for her, just as she had always been there for him.

As he entered the recovery room, he was greeted by Yumina, Vivio, Rio, Corona, Fūka, and Ixveria, all gathered near Einhard, who sat proudly on the examination table with a triumphant smile on her face.

"Ave-kun! I won!" she declared joyfully, her voice brimming with pride and exhilaration. Without a second thought, she leaped off the table, her movements swift and carefree, and ran straight into his arms. Ave barely had time to react before her warmth enveloped him, her joyful energy palpable. The world seemed to pause as he wrapped his arms around her, holding her close.

"You did it, Haru," Ave murmured, his voice thick with pride. "You were incredible out there."

Einhard buried her face against his chest, her mismatched eyes shimmering with unspoken emotions. "I promised I'd win," she whispered, her voice soft yet unwavering. "And I wanted you to see me do it."

Ave's heart swelled. "I saw everything, and I've never been prouder."

Einhard pulled back slightly, her cheeks flushed from a mixture of exertion and happiness. "Thank you for being here, Ave-kun," she said earnestly. "It meant everything to me."

He smiled down at her. "There's nowhere else I'd rather be."

Einhard's mismatched purple and blue eyes shimmered with emotion as she pulled back slightly to look at him. Her breath was still uneven from the excitement of the moment, and her heart raced in her chest like a drumbeat that refused to settle. Her gaze locked with his, and for a moment, the world around them faded into a tranquil blur—the bustle of the medical bay reduced to a distant murmur. Ave's irises, which always seemed to take on an iridescent hue whenever he was particularly excited or happy, glimmered like precious gems, reflecting the pure joy radiating from their connection.

How did I get so lucky? Einhard wondered, warmth blossoming in her chest. His presence had become her safe harbour, grounding her even after the fiercest battles. She never wanted to let go of that feeling.

Einhard's heart raced each beat loud in her ears as their faces drew closer. The warmth radiating from Ave's presence wrapped around her, making the world fades into soft focus. Her breath hitched, catching in her throat, as anticipation bloomed in her chest. The faint scent of him—fresh with hints of the outdoors—filled her senses. Their lips were mere inches apart, and time seemed to suspend, holding its breath for this perfect moment when—

"Einhard-san! Ave-nii! Ganbatte!" Vivio's enthusiastic whisper shattered the moment.

Rio and Corona clung to each other, trying desperately not to squeal, while Fūka and Ixveria pretended to cover their eyes but peeked through their fingers.

Einhard and Ave quickly pulled apart, their faces flaming with embarrassment. A nervous laugh escaped Einhard's lips.

"Tio! Hura!" Vivio complained, glaring at the two Devices who had innocently meowed from the table, alerting everyone to the near kiss. "You two just ruined the best romantic scene of the century!"

Rio and Corona dramatically lamented the loss of what they deemed a cinematic moment.

Fūka remained coy, a playful smile tugging at her lips. "Don't worry, Haru-san. I won't intrude on my mentor's private life." Her tone carried a teasing edge, but there was genuine respect beneath it.

Ave seized the opportunity, his grin mischievous. "Oh? But weren't you one of the people spying on us a week ago?"

Fūka's eyes widened in shock, a flush creeping up her neck as she spluttered. "T-That's—!" She waved her hands frantically, trying to come up with an excuse. "I was just—uh—keeping an eye on my mentor's safety!"

Vivio couldn't resist chiming in, her laughter bubbling over. "Right, Fūka-san, because spying equals safety monitoring?"

Rio and Corona joined in, their giggles infectious.

Yumina intervened with a gentle smile, her voice soothing. "Let's not tease Einhard-san and Ave-san too much, okay?" Her calm demeanor brought a semblance of order back to the room.

Ixveria gave a sage nod. "Agreed. They've earned some peace after today."

A soft knock on the door interrupted the lively banter, drawing everyone's attention. The door creaked open, revealing Fie, Hibiki, Yuna, and Shizuna, their expressions warm and congratulatory as they stepped inside. The soft hum of the medical bay seemed to quiet even further as they approached, their presence commanding a subtle respect.

Fie's sharp silver gaze softened with genuine admiration. Hibiki's bright smile radiated cheerfulness, a stark contrast to the intensity she displayed during her matches. Yuna's playful demeanor shone through, evident in the mischievous glint in her eyes, while Shizuna carried herself with poised elegance, the air around her almost regal.

"Congratulations on your victory," Shizuna said, her voice steady and respectful. There was a weight to her words, acknowledging not just the triumph but also the effort and will behind it.

Einhard humbly bowed, her voice modest despite the pride glimmering in her mismatched eyes. "Thank you. The matches were close. I was just lucky."

Shizuna shook her head firmly. "Luck is a factor, but strength, dedication, perseverance, and ingenuity are what lead to true victory." Her tone was unwavering, as though speaking a universal truth.

Fie and Hibiki nodded in agreement, their expressions echoing Shizuna's sentiment.

"I should've put more points into agility and luck," Yuna joked, breaking the solemn atmosphere with a laugh.

The room lightened, everyone chuckling at Yuna's humorous remark. Hibiki playfully nudged her. "Maybe next time, Yuna-san," she teased.

Ave tilted his head curiously, observing Yuna's odd phrasing. Is she from a parallel Earth like me? He wondered, the thought lingering in his mind.

Einhard's eyes sparkled with warmth. "I'm looking forward to a rematch, Yuna-san."

The group chatted amiably for a while, sharing stories of their battles, victories, and near defeats. Laughter and camaraderie filled the room, weaving bonds strengthened by shared experiences before they eventually dispersed, leaving Einhard and Ave with the comforting echoes of their friends' well wishes.

As the evening settled, Einhard and Ave bid farewell to their friends. The golden hues of the setting sun bathed the scene in warmth, casting long shadows across the ground. Vivio, Rio, Corona, and Fūka initially attempted to tail them, sneaking behind bushes and lampposts with exaggerated stealth. Yumina and Ixveria, however, quickly caught on.

"Let's give them some space, okay?" Yumina said firmly, placing her hands on her hips. Her tone carried the gentle but undeniable authority of someone who knew how to manage mischief.

Ixveria nodded in agreement. "They've earned this time together."

Vivio pouted, crossing her arms. "But it's just so cute!"

Rio and Corona giggled, their excitement bubbling over. Fūka attempted to argue her case. "I was only making sure my mentor was safe—totally not spying!"

Yumina's smile softened. "I'm sure Einhard-san can handle herself. Now, let's head back."

Reluctantly, the group complied, though not without some grumbling. Einhard, catching sight of their antics, sighed and shook her head, a small amused smile playing on her lips.

With a grateful glance at Yumina and Ixveria, Ave revved the motorbike's engine. "Ready, Haru?" he asked, his voice warm.

"Always," she replied softly, climbing onto the bike and wrapping her arms securely around his waist. The engine roared to life, and they sped away from Midchilda East, leaving behind the fading sounds of their friends' chatter.

The golden hues of the sunset bathed the landscape, casting long shadows across the road. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of blooming flowers. Einhard leaned her head slightly against Ave's back, savouring the tranquillity.

Neither spoke for a while, content to simply enjoy the ride and each other's presence. The day had been unforgettable, a testament to their journey together.

Breaking the comfortable silence, Einhard asked, "Where are we going, Ave-kun?"

He smiled behind his helmet. "You'll see. Just wait a bit longer."

Her curiosity piqued, Einhard nodded. Anywhere with him is a beautiful marvel, she thought.

They finally arrived at a secluded hill overlooking the city, where the lights of Cranagan sparkled like a field of stars in the distance. A small, charming cottage that served as a café nestled among lush greenery, its vintage wooden sign gently swaying in the evening breeze. The faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafted through the air, blending with the crisp scent of wildflowers that dotted the surrounding landscape. Only a couple of elderly patrons occupied the outdoors seating, their quiet laughter mingling with the soothing rustle of leaves. The tranquil ambiance enveloped the place, creating a serene haven away from the bustling city below.

Einhard climbed down from the motorbike, her mismatched eyes widening in awe as she gazed at the night sky. Her heart skipped a beat.

The sky shimmered with iridescent colors; reminiscent of the aurora she had once seen in Earth's northern hemisphere. The hues shifted and danced across the vast expanse, painting a mesmerizing symphony of light that seemed almost ethereal. Shades of violet, emerald, and cerulean intertwined, casting a soft glow over the landscape. The cool evening air brushed against Einhard's skin, heightening her senses, as she stood captivated by the breathtaking sight. It was as though the universe had laid out a masterpiece just for them, creating a moment suspended in magic.

"Ave-kun," she whispered, her voice tinged with wonder. "It's beautiful."

Ave stood beside her, gently wrapping his arm around her shoulder and pulling her close. The warmth of his touch melted away the lingering weariness from the day, offering a sense of comfort and peace. Einhard leaned her head on his shoulder, her silver-green hair catching the gentle breeze. The cool night air mingled with the faint scent of wildflowers, creating an atmosphere both tranquil and enchanting. A content smile graced her lips, her mismatched eyes reflecting the shimmering iridescent sky above as if holding a piece of its magic within.

"Is it as beautiful as you remember?" Ave asked softly.

"It reminds me of your eyes when you're excited or happy," Einhard admitted, blushing slightly.

They shared a small chuckle; their faces warm with affection.

"This is my present for you," Ave said. "For winning the tournament."

Einhard's heart swelled. "Thank you. But every day with you feels like a gift, Ave-kun."

He smiled, his expression tender. "I feel the same way, Haru. It took me a while to realize it, but you make everything worth it."

Einhard's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she gazed at him, her heart swelling with emotion. "You're already amazing, Ave-kun," she whispered earnestly, her voice soft but resolute.

How can he not see how incredible he is? She thought, the warmth in her chest growing stronger. His presence had become a beacon of strength and happiness for her, even in the toughest moments.

Ave's lips curved into a humble smile, but there was a flicker of self-doubt in his eyes. "I'm just doing my best, Haru," he said quietly, his voice tinged with sincerity. "But hearing that from you makes everything worth it."

Her fingers brushed against his hand, intertwining gently. "Then remember this," she said with a hint of playfulness mingled with affection, "You'll always have me to remind you when you forget."

A soft chuckle escaped Ave's lips. "I guess I'll have to rely on you a lot, then."

Einhard smiled warmly, her gaze never wavering. "And I'll always be here for you, Ave-kun," she said softly. No matter what happens, I want to be his support.

He shook his head gently, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "I'm just an ordinary person with flaws. But I promise you this—there will be times when we argue, and I might unintentionally hurt your feelings. But I'll always strive to be better and never betray your trust."

Einhard's heart ached at his sincerity. Tears welled up in her mismatched eyes, spilling down her cheeks. She grasped his hand firmly, her voice resolute despite the emotion choking it. "Thank you, Ave-kun. I'll always be by your side, so you'll always have someone to rely on."

Ave's grip on her hand tightened gently, as though sealing their promise. "That means everything to me, Haru," he whispered, his iridescent irises gleaming with earnestness. "Knowing you're with me makes facing anything easier."

Their heartfelt words lingered in the air, heavy with meaning. The shimmering hues of the iridescent sky seemed to mirror the vibrant emotions between them. Slowly, without hesitation, they closed the distance between them, sharing a deep, meaningful kiss under the ethereal glow. Their connection was unspoken yet profound, a testament to the love that had blossomed between them.

This time, there were no interruptions—just the two of them, lost in a moment of pure love and happiness.

To Be Continued.