[|Nier/ACIV: BF|] Things Worth Fighting For [|1-on-1 RP|]

Nier was washing his hands when Yonah mentioned Popola stopping by. He would take his daughters word for it though Yonah had quite a spree for running out when he was away.

"Alright Yonah," he replied rubbing the blood off his hands, "I believe you. I just want you to be careful."

When Reks asked about Popola, it was Yonah who answered quickly. Nier nodded in agreement to her words. Popola was a great help here and there. She remained mostly in the library.

"She's a good friend," he replied, "has done plenty of favors in the past that I'll never be able to repay."

Nier dried his hands, glancing at his daughter. Already, she was gathering the supplies needed to bake cookies. Nier didn't want to think about eating them. He would stomach them in front of Yonah, however.

"I'm sure they'll swing by at some point," he said, "Every ones a little curious of our new addition, after all."

---- [x] ----

Cerise wasn't so cheerful anymore. She didn't like being difficult, not especially so unless it was deserved. This however was because she felt hurt. Aside from that, the lack of emotional response made it worse.

She tried not to think about it. The stirring in her chest would disappear in time. She needed to clear her mind of those thoughts. It would just take time.

"I'm sure," she replied, brushing her bangs from her face.

New clothes might cool her down as well. Part of her wondered if there were any cloths that might irritate him if she decided on them. Cerise would make sure to keep an eye out when they got there.

Most of the walk was done in silence. She wasn't up for talking, already felt like she was walking in a fog again. She hated feeling like that. Hilary broke that silence a moment later.

"I wouldn't have been so sour if you hadn't said what you did," she replied in return, "Now you get to deal with it."

Yonah had sat only long enough to eat a slice of watermelon before she was on her feet again and rummaging around for something or other. Reks could only assume that she was intent on making those cookies she’d mentioned. For someone who was sick she was certainly active, perhaps she felt good today.

Reks nodded as Nier expanded more on this Popola person, helping Reks to get a clearer picture of who she was. At the reminder of everyone’s curiosity Reks balked a little, tugging at her earlobe as she fished for something to say. It wasn’t like she was used to being in the limelight like this.

“Right, she sounds nice,” she finally said lamely. It was the most she could think to say about it all.

There was the sound of eggs being broken as Yonah went about her cookie idea. Reks had no idea what kind of cookie the young girl was hoping to make but she seemed intent on making them now. If Reks wasn’t mistaken when she glanced at him, Nier looked a little wary about this. ’Is something wrong with Yonah’s cooking?’ she wondered though didn’t bother to ask out loud. If he didn’t say anything in front of his daughter then there might have been a reason for it.

For a minute or two it was quiet, the only sound being Yonah cooking. She seemed engrossed entirely in this work, the rest of her watermelon abandoned on the table or maybe she’d cut all of that for her father and Reks. Reks took the time to glance around, taking in the books that lined shelves and the dully-colored pots. At one point she glanced at a large cooking pot that she’d mistaken for an oven hours ago.

“Is there anything I can draw with?” Reks wondered finally, glancing at Nier and Weiss as she did. There didn’t seem to be anything of importance to see to at the moment in any case.

----[x]----

It didn’t take Cerise long to snap at him again though he merely offered a shrug in return. Perhaps she was looking to get a rise out of him in return though she’d need to try harder than that if she was. Hilary had his fair share of people snapping and arguing with him in his life, he’d long since grown used to it.

“Come now, the reminder was necessary if you did not think such things might not happen elsewhere as well,” Hilary rebutted. This only seemed to make her angrier though Hilary would not take back his words even if he could.

Again they walked for some time in silence. Hilary could hear all manner of conversations around them even when there were only a marginal percentage of Havana’s residents out and about. They were all inconsequential types of conversations, the talk going on about work or later plans. Truthfully Hilary was barely paying any attention to it all.

At one point Hilary rolled his shoulders wondering what might happen in the day if Cerise’s mood did not pick up from here. Perhaps he should let off a little if only because they barely knew one another. The last thing he needed was to make her an enemy.

He mulled over this for some time, their walk at an even enough pace. They were exploring much of Havana for Cerise’s sake but it worked well enough for Hilary’s needs. He usually took a different route each day anyways.

“If you see something that catches your eye do speak up,” Hilary noted after some time passed. If she grew hungry or spotted some clothing in a window he’d like to nip that task in the bud before long.

Nier wasn't going to be avoiding these cookies. He resisted a sigh at that. He would disappoint Yonah by not eating what she cooked for him. He could only steady himself and deal with a stomachache later on.

Reks was quiet as she took in the information. He nodded in response to her short reply. It wasn't much but she didn't know Popola either. In time that would change.

Nier dried off his hands as he heard the batter being mixed together. He didn't want to think about having to eat something that tasted like a cave floor. He pushed it aside for a time.

He glanced at Reks when she finally spoke again. Tossing the towel away, he started to rummage about.

"I think we might have something," he replied, "some parchment and a fountain pen. It should do."

It didn't take him long to pull something out and set it up for her. He motioned toward it next, allowing her to do what she wanted with it.

"What do you plan on drawing?" he inquired after a moment. Weiss seemed to hover by perhaps curious himself.

---- [x] ----

The heat in Cerise chest didn't settle. As Hilary went on, it only seemed to get worse. She tried to push passed it so not to snap at him again. It was difficult however. What he said cut deep even if his intentions were good.

They continued on in silence. She wasn't willing to speak up, feeling dizzy with annoyance. Her gaze wandered here and there however, trying to memorize places.

The buildings looked so similar but if anything, Cerise tried to recall the paths. If she could recall those, she would be alright.

Much of the walk remained that way. She didn't quite have it in her for conversation, instead focusing on the things around her. She ignored any stares shot her way.

She glanced at a window, noting a pretty skirt and top. Cerise stopped, peering inside. The clothing looked light and easy fitting, showing off much of the legs.

"How about this?" she asked after a moment, glancing over to judge his expression. Part of her deeply hoped something like this would be of annoyance to him.

Nier didn’t take long to start looking around for something for her to use. If she knew where he kept such things Reks would have gotten up to help out and she had to remind herself of that fact. Just letting him go about it after taking care of her like he had made Reks feel a little like she was being lazy or taking it all for granted. She hoped she wasn’t coming across like that.

“Thanks,” she said, taking the offered items in hand. For a second she mulled over the question that followed, tapping the rounded end of the pen to her chin idly. “I’m not sure yet…”

Reks glanced about as if seeking inspiration from somewhere. She watched as Yonah nearly dropped the bowl of batter she was fussing with. The young girl glanced over her shoulder as if wondering if she’d be yelled at before getting back to it. Reks shook her head, smiling briefly at that. It reminded her of her little niece when she was up to something.

She was aware that Weiss had hovered closer, nearer to her shoulder than to Nier’s and eventually she glanced up at the book. Finally she gestured to him with the old pen, catching his attention further. At the very least she could practice a bit of still life, so to speak.

“Hey, wanna model for me, Weiss?” she questioned. If nothing else it might flatter the book and make him easier to deal with. ’Or it’ll inflate his ego,’ she added silently.

----[x]----

Cerise hadn’t answered him this time. If that was how she was going to be then Hilary would let her sulk. It wasn’t problematic after all when there was no threat nearby. Perhaps the quiet would let her settle some.

The morning passed much in this manner, the gray light fading away to something brighter. Several puffy white clouds dotted the sky and sometimes cast cooler shadows over Havana but it did little to beat the increasingly sticky heat that hung in the air.

Every so often Hilary would spare a glance towards Cerise, wondering how she was faring in it. He couldn’t begin to guess at what kind of climate she called comfortable and he’d rather she not collapse from heat stroke or see her get dehydrated because she’d stubbornly refused to talk to him. For the most part she seemed fine however.

It wasn’t until it was close to lunchtime did Cerise halt, peering into a store’s window. Hilary slowed and turned to face her, waiting. He didn’t have to do this long before Cerise finally said something, glancing to him for his reaction. Hilary glanced at the outfit on display among a few others, set up to attract female customers. Finally he offered a shrug, seeing nothing particularly wrong with it if it not being a little revealing compared to what most women wore.

“If that is what you want,” he said, reaching for his coin purse. He’d let her go in on her own and tend to that purchase, perhaps letting her get more familiar with the coin used in this area of the world.

Nier spared a glance toward Yonah as she took to continue cooking. She had dropped something, the sound ringing out clearly. He'd merely spared a glance as she looked at him, expecting some kind of scolding. Nier left her to it.

Instead, he sat back down. It felt like a long time since he'd merely sat and relaxed. Provided, the circumstance were rather strange. Nier wouldn't complain about it however.

He raised a brow looking at Weiss when Reks made her offer. It was an odd one but the book had hovered nearer the young woman.

"Draw me?" he echoed as if surprised by the words, "Why, I doubt you could capture my magnificence! But if you must!"

Nier tried not to chuckle at Weiss's words. The book really had an ego and when played right, it showed right through. It was always amusing to see.

"Don't flatter him too much now," Nier replied, "He'll never stop talking after about himself if you keep that up."

"You merely know nothing of class!" the book snapped back. Nier merely waved off those words lightly.

---- [x] ----

She waited for some kind of distaste out of her choice. The woman she caught walking by were dressed conservatively, their legs covered. Most of them seemed rather quiet as well. Cerise had hoped for some kind of reaction out of Hilary.

Instead, she merely got a shrug in response. She tried not to look displeased with that fact though she was. She wanted to get some kind of rise out of him.

He pulled out a pouch, quickly handing her a bit of coin. It felt heavy in her hand, foreign. Cerise toyed with the coin, twirling it in between her fingers. It was shortly afterward did she wander inside without a word.

It was a quick affair, paying for the clothing and gathering them up. Cerise was thankful that the owner let her change in the back. She kept hold of her old clothes even after she slipped into the old ones. Tying her hair back helped her cool her down a little.

Minutes after she was wandering back outside. Hilary had waited for her though she couldn't tell if it was impatient or not.

"I don't think it's that bad," she brought up, smoothing out the skirt a little, "Things like these were hard to find back home."

Weiss looked surprised at Reks’s offer, rearing back a few inches in the air and turning slightly. Perhaps this was the book’s way of expressing it before he’d spoken. If she wasn’t mistaken there seemed to be a hint of flattery in his voice even if he sounded more egotistical with the words he’d chosen.

Reks chuckled, glad that Weiss at least agreed. It prevented her from staring at a blank sheet of paper for god knew how long.

“Consider it practice then,” she joked. She spoke up again only after Nier mentioned Weiss’s ego inflating at this rate. “Ah, I’m sure you’ll just knock him back down a peg or two.”

The way Weiss and Nier bantered earlier had given her a clue as to what kind of friendship of sorts they seemed to have after all. It really was a curious thing and one she was growing strangely comfortable with. Maybe it was the fact that Nier and Yonah and everyone else in the village she’d seen acted as if the talking, floating book was normal that helped.

Poising the pen over the paper she glanced up at Weiss, ready to sketch out the guidelines she’d need before starting in on the actual details. At least she would if Weiss wasn’t still moving. Reks heaved a sigh at this. Perhaps Weiss was less composed than he’d like to present himself as if he got this riled up.

“I can’t draw your ‘magnificence’ if you don’t hold still,” she pointed out. Nonetheless she’d turned back to the paper and started on the light penning for the base image.

The sound of pen on paper combined with Yonah’s cooking noise. Yonah didn’t seem to be the type of cook that was quiet while she worked, things banging loudly and Yonah humming to herself while she worked.

----[x]----

She took the reales silently, inspecting the coins for a moment before she wandered into the clothing shop. Hilary moved to the side of the street, hovering near the door and out of people’s way. Many more had come out and were wandering the streets, crowding them and making it harder to get where one wanted easily.

It took her some time to emerge from the shop, dressed in her purchased clothes. Perhaps the shopkeeper had let her change in a backroom because she was dressed so strangely or maybe Cerise had some charm to her that Hilary was not yet aware of. He shook those thoughts away.

The clothes were less modest than most of those women around her but they were not hideous. Compared to what she’d worn before however Hilary would not have expected this choice from her. ’It seems I still have much to learn,’ he mused.

“Were they now?” he wondered, eyeing the skirt. It was a ruffled thing, dark in color and left to show off her legs from the front only from just above her knees. It was something of a risqué choice. “They are not always so easy to find, or so a few women have told me.”

He gestured for her to join him in walking again. So far there had been nothing out of line in Havana but he had no way of knowing about the other parts of the city until they reached them. They’d be on their feet for most of the day because of it. It was a necessary thing and it kept him fit.

“We have quite a walk to go yet,” Hilary noted out loud, more for Cerise’s benefit rather than for conversation purposes. “Perhaps we should find some place to eat in a while.”

Nier propped his elbow on the table, smiling a little. There were light days but they seemed rare anymore. Nier was far too aware of his daughters condition. That often left him worrying.

He watched Yonah for a few minutes, wondering what she was throwing in that batter of hers. it wouldn't surprise him if a number of things ended up in there. Nier tried not to think about it.

"Practice then," Weiss replied, "I suppose I can endure that much."

Nier chuckled a little in response to the books words. His ego rarely went down though it was interesting to see. At least it made things light.

"I don't know. That kind of ego might not deflate easily," he teased lightly in return.

"Oh please! You merely can not compare to my magnificence!"

"I'm sure," Nier replied lightly. He glanced at Reks, easily seeing the smile on her lips. That was good. At least things seemed to be looking up for her, growing comfortable. Perhaps in time, that will become a little more normal.

---- [x] ----

Cerise was rather fond of the clothing. She wasn't sure what Hilary thought about it. His words weren't hesitant but he was studying her. She figured this was a bit of a risk.

"No," she answered, "They weren't particular popular."

Here, they probably wouldn't be either but she didn't let that stop her. In some sense, if felt like she was turning over a new leaf. Life was different and thus, she would adjust to it's oddness.

She followed after Hilary again trying to calm her previous annoyance with him. The new clothing helped a little, that much she'd admit to herself. It made her feel lighter, less warm in the humidity.

"That will be fine," she answered after a moment of his offer, "as long as it's not fish."

Cerise wasn't fond of the smell of fish much less the taste. That was a scent that she'd have to get used to over time. She could smell a little fish in the air but she knew that would be normal. As long as it wasn't overpowering, she was fine.

Despite how huffy he initially acted at the idea of being drawn Weiss seemed to cotton to the idea quickly enough. That was an observation that Reks kept to herself, merely listening to he an Nier’s bantering. The two seemed close if she had to guess by how they acted with one another.

“How long have you two known each other?” she wondered after a while.

She glanced from paper to Weiss off and on, making sure that her strokes were deliberate and clean. There was no erasing any stray marks with this pen after all. Though she liked the sketchy look she didn’t want to risk things getting too sloppy when the image was complete.

Time passed in this manner, idle conversation arising every so often. It was calming, in a way, keeping her mind from worrisome things. There’d be plenty of time to think about all of that later, when she needed to rest anyways. Occasionally she had to pause, the injury throbbing horribly without the aid of painkillers to dull it and make it more manageable.

At some point Yonah had joined them at the table, reaching for one of the melon slices she’d cut earlier. She didn’t seem to be too worried about her cookies as they baked, watching as Reks drew and occasionally pitching into the conversation. The young girl was a curious one and friendly as well.

”Hey, can you draw me next, or maybe Dad?” Yonah piped up, looking excited about the idea in a whole.

“I don’t see why not,” Reks answered lightly, not looking up from the work she was doing now. She barely seemed to notice the smell of burning cookies or even that Yonah also seemed oblivious to the smell.

----[x]----

Hilary allowed a short hum to be his response to Cerise. He wasn’t exactly knowledgeable in women’s fashion nor did he have a reason to be. Due to this he’d take her word on the matter. That topic dropped quickly enough afterwards as Hilary started them off once more, his pace just as quick as before despite the crowded streets.

’At least she is speaking again,’ he noted to himself. Now he would not have to guess as to what she wanted if she didn’t grow silent once more.

Eventually she mentioned eating anything that wasn’t fish. At least it was a start, he reasoned. That would be a simple enough dish to avoid though he had to wonder if she had any other aversions to specific food. If so Hilary hoped she’d mention them ahead of time and save him some trouble in the long run.

“I am sure we can find something to accommodate your tastes,” Hilary promised, glancing around. It’d be a bit before he steered them in the direction where most little food places were but sometimes there were street vendors that might sell a bit of produce along the way.

As they walked it seemed like Cerise had an easier time keeping up with him now that she had a change of clothes. Perhaps she’d been too hot in the others or maybe they’d weighed her down in some way. Either or were credible possibilities, those layers of clothes she’d adorned had seemed cumbersome and far too loose to be comfortable.

The question was a minor one. He hadn't exactly explained much about he and Weiss. There didn't seem to be much curiosity on the matter. Reks wasn't inclined to however. She was trying her hardest to adjust no doubt.

"Not long," Nier finally replied, "We happened to meet in one of the temples. He aided me when I needed help saving Yonah."

"I did not simply aid," Weiss corrected, "If it was not for me, you wouldn't have stood a chance!"

Nier scoffed lightly at that response. While that was a little true, Nier was loath to admit it. He wouldn't say much on the matter however.

It wasn't long after did Yonah finally decide to join in on the conversation. She drew near, reaching for something to eat. It was easy to see her going about watching Reks drawing.

"Draw me?" he echoed after a moment, shaking his head, "I'm not much to draw."

He expected her to disagree. She was that type after all. When Yonah got something in her head, she was often hard pressed to see it through. That was just the kind of person she was.

---- [x] ----

Cerise continued on, keeping pace with Hilary. She made sure to look about, study the area and the people. She picked friendly ones from ones to be wary of. She needed to be proactive here despite her meeker nature in the past.

Hilary didn't have much else to say though perhaps that was in his nature. She didn't know him much at all. For all she knew, this was normal out of him.

"...nothing spicy either," she decided to add after a moment, "I can't handle things like that."

With that said, she fell silent again more involved with looking about then her attention being on Hilary. This is what he wanted, after all. To make sure she was familiar with the area.

As they walked, she noted the many people who owned and carried weapons. Whether they were pistols, swords, or daggers, they were mostly on display by the owner. It was either a warning or to pick a fight.

"I take it a lot of people find some amount of joy in fighting?" she inquired after noting this detail, "A lot of people seem to carry weapons."

”Huh, could’ve fooled me,” Reks admitted. With how they treated each other it seemed more like they’d known each other for years.

Weiss’s rebuttal caused her to grow more curious about the situation that had caused them to meet. For the moment she didn’t ask more, she was still just a stranger and it wasn’t her place to ask. Perhaps in the future when all of this strangeness was normal to her would she ask for the story in full. Reks hoped by that point she’d be able to better handle this stuff. It was still so strange to talk to a floating book; it was all she could do to act like it was normal. Drawing helped.

The quiet had returned briefly before Yonah joined them, growing interested in Reks’s drawing. No one had seen the product yet but perhaps they overestimated her. In Reks’s eyes it still looked too cartoon-y even when she did her best to get the shading and details on Weiss just right.

Yonah shook her head at Nier’s answer, looking stubborn. Watermelon juice dribbled down her chin as she argued; “No way! It’ll be cool. Besides, if Reks lets me keep it then I can have something to of you when you’re gone.”

Reks paused in her sketching of Weiss, pen hovering over the paper as she observed Nier more carefully. If he noticed he didn’t react to it, perhaps more engrossed in speaking with Yonah. Finally, Reks shook her head.

“I don’t know, where I’m from most guys are unattractively scrawny or overweight,” Reks pointed out.

It seemed this was enough to make Yonah grin widely, perhaps hoping that Nier would change his mind now that someone else was on her side to. At least that was the impression Reks got.

----[x]----

Hilary wasn’t sure what was running through Cerise’s mind. If she felt it was important than Hilary hoped she would share it though he wouldn’t prod for information. ’Not yet anyways,’ he brooded. In time when trust began to form she might be more open with him.

“Hmm?” Hilary glanced at her, eyebrow raised. It took a moment to realize what she told him. “Of course,” he said after he did.

He left them to drift into silence after that, keeping an eye and ear out for any trouble. No one that was out and about seemed to be up to anything suspicious nor was anyone adorning a telltale hood. This helped to settle Hilary’s mind a little. The assassins and their love for hoods were often their downfall when it came to spotting them, at least when they weren’t deep in a crowd.

Eventually Cerise noted out loud the fact that many men and some more brazen women carried a weapon or two at their sides. Even Hilary had a few flintlocks strapped ot his person and he did know how to wield a sword if he must. A chuckle left him and he shook his head; Cerise had much to learn it seemed.

“Joy and safety,” he answered. He glanced at her discreetly then, wondering what she thought of that. Many who picked up a weapon only did so out of fear of being on the end of one if they did not appear dangerous as well.

For a brief moment his mind flickered to Rhona and the way she was adept at wielding a flintlock. Hilary quickly shook the thought away. Now was no time for such things.

Reks didn't ask anymore of how they met. If she was curious she might bring it up later. She might have been thinking of Yonah nearby or concentrating mostly on her drawing.

Silence passed a little after that as if speaking would shatter that concentration. Eventually Yonah broke it, easily protesting his word. Nier chuckled lightly in reply.

"Well, I suppose that's true," he replied, "It's not like I have many paintings or drawings around."

"And that shows your lack of class," Weiss jested in response to his words. Nier snorted, waving him off.

He blinked when Reks spoke of people in her home. Sparing a glance toward Weiss, he smiled a little bit. It sounded as if she didn't have a high opinion of people back home.

"What, no one around your type?" he inquired, if a little teasing in his tone, "Must have gotten lonely."

"You find the oddest people to tease," Weiss said. Nier shook his head though was not deterred by the words. For Reks, it could be a good distraction from her thoughts.

---- [x] ----

It took him a minute to catch onto what she said last. She didn't exactly speak loudly. There wasn't too much to worry about in ways of food for the moment so she left it at that.

When he chuckled, he drew her attention again. A short hum left her at his answer. People needed the protection in this era. It wasn't so surprising to hear but to witness it was entirely different.

Mulling over it for a time, she thought about how easily caught she'd been on the other island. True, she had been in a panic about all of it, she should have been more careful.

With that thought in mind, she glanced back up at him. "Do you fight?" she asked, "If so, if it's not asking too much, I'd like you to teach me."

He wanted her to be proactive so she would be. If she had to step out of her comfort zone to make sure she was guarded, she would. Cerise couldn't rely on anyone else in this time. She had to go on her own ability.

Nier seemed to be caving under Yonah’s insistence, sparing a glance around the room. The décor that he did have here were all simple things, nothing hanging off of the walls at all. Then again she supposed it’d be hard to do that when the walls were made of stone. Still, it was a quaint home with what he had.

”So does that mean you’ll let Reks draw you then?” Yonah interrogated, leaning over the table as she did. She took the moment to wipe the watermelon juice from her chin as she waited.

Whatever Nier’s answer he soon turned his attention to Reks when she gave her own observation, ignoring Weiss’s scoffing about his ‘lack of class.’ Reks felt her face grow warm at the bit of teasing that was aimed her way and she quickly cleared her throat and turned back to her drawing. She could hear Nier chuckling before she replied.

“Didn’t think you were the cheeky type,” she muttered before saying louder, “… There might be some truth to that though.”

”I don’t think she’s odd! Not that much anyways,” Yonah protested. She peered up at Weiss as if waiting for him to say something more though Yonah didn’t justify her line of thinking. Reks shook her head at that.

Reks worked to finish up the simple drawing of Weiss, there was no background behind it, not when he kept moving like he was. The darker spots were inked in further to give it more life, or as much as Reks could infuse onto the paper. Only once she was satisfied she’d pushed her darks as best as she could did she flip the paper around, peering from over top it in an almost childlike manner.

“There. So, Weiss, does it past your ‘magnificence’ test?” she prodded.

----[x]----

It grew quiet again for some time. Hilary led them down many streets during that long stretch, seeing no need to push her into further conversation. She was coming out of that shell on her own as it was now and he’d rather not push her back into it so soon. He was curious of what else she might ask or talk about on her own accord as well.

Hilary was beginning to root out any small taverns they could stop at for a quick bite to eat by the time Cerise spoke up again. From the look on her face she seemed to have been mulling over this since she’d caught sight of those men bearing arms on their person. Hilary shook his head at that.

“Perhaps at a later date, when we can trust one another better,” he answered simply.

He’d rather not teach her something only to find Cerise would find a way to turn it against him in some manner or another. If there was nothing for him to worry about then Cerise could wait a while longer to learn something of the sort. At that time they might know more about her odd tattoo as well.

He gestured up towards a little white staircase that lead up only a few short feet. The tavern it led to only had this paint-peeling porch because it was situated atop such a sudden steep hill. The sign above proudly displayed that it would serve all kinds here.

“I take it your might be getting hungry by now,” he offered, allowing her to choose.

Nier chuckled a little at how excited Yonah seemed to get at the idea of Reks drawing him. She wouldn't relent until it happened. If that was the case, he mind as well let it happen.

"I suppose I'll have to," he answered, a teasing tone to his voice, "Otherwise, you may never let me hear the end of it."

He wouldn't have pegged Reks to be the bashful type. His comment had left her ducking her head a little. A tint of pink warmed her cheeks, adding color to her pale features.

"I'm a lot of things you're not aware of yet," he teased back.

In truth, Nier did a lot of teasing when he could. While he had his serious moment, he was mostly light hearted. The man saw no reason to be to serious all of the time. That was very little fun.

Yonah was quick to protest that Reks was odd. In some manner, he'd met stranger people. Reks didn't come close to some of them despite her story.

Silence overtook the room once more as Reks finished up her drawing. She eventually turned it toward Weiss, asking for his opinion. For a long moment, he was silent, carefully studying the drawing.

"Well, it's not marvelous," he finally commented, "You've left out my finer details, you haven't managed enough! But...I suppose it will do."

Nier couldn't help but laugh a little at that attitude. "That's the closest thing you'll get to a compliment!" he jested, "You best take it, Reks."

---- [x] ----

If he was mulling over the idea of teaching her to fight he didn't show it. Cerise didn't like the fact that she couldn't read him well. He kept everything hidden it seemed. The way he held himself made it incredibly difficult unless he happened to be cracking a joke.

When he answered her, the words didn't so much surprise her. They were still a little wary of each other. More over, she didn't entirely trust him. For all she knew, the feeling was mutual.

"Well," she started, her gaze falling somewhere else, "If you teach me how to shoot, I'll teach you how to regret teaching me how to shoot."

Cerise was merely trying to lighten the mood, specifically her own. The thoughts and feelings still lingered. She wanted them gone. While she knew it would take time, Cerise could be a little impatient. She'd rather move on quickly.

She couldn't tell if Hilary appreciated that joke just yet. For all she knew, he could have taken it as a threat. It wasn't as if she had much intention of shooting someone unless she needed to.

The thought was there and gone when he mentioned getting something to eat. Her stomach still gnawed at itself reminding her of how little she had eaten in the passed days.

"Yes, I am," she answered, "More so than I'd like to admit."

It would take some time before she looked healthy in terms of weight again, she was sure. When she'd tugged off her clothes to change earlier, she'd been surprised by how much she lost. It was just another reminder of that ship.

Yonah had startled giggling as the conversation continued, her gray eyes filled with mirth. Perhaps it was because she was with her father or maybe the young girl enjoyed the company in a whole. It seemed like a lot of people in this village place were busy after all, she could very well be rather lonely cooped up inside sick like this. Reks wouldn’t question it, in the coming days she was sure she’d figure things out more fully.

Talk had stopped only briefly until Reks had finished the sketchy artwork, turning it about for the group to see. Weiss had floated closer to inspect it before scoffing, declaring that Reks had missed something or other. She narrowed her eyes at the book in response though a notable twitch at the corner of her lips betrayed the feigned annoyance.

“That sounds like a challenge to me,” she pointed out. If she had to work to get a compliment out of this book than she would! Besides, she’d thought the image had been fairly detailed considering Weiss hadn’t held still much of the time she’d been drawing him. Reks continued to say, “I’ll get a real compliment out of you yet, book, just you wait!”

Despite this she set the drawing aside, leaving it be for now. Yonah giggled, silently getting from her chair and wandering over to check on her cookies. She must not have deemed them ready, however, as not a minute later she’d rejoined them and smiled brightly at her father.

”Just a little longer,” she said to the unasked question.

Reks wasn’t sure about that considering she was beginning to smell the faint sent of something burning but Nier didn’t seem concerned enough to mention this so she pushed it from her mind.

----[x]----

Hilary wasn’t sure what was on Cerise’s mind now. Perhaps she did not like being told no, despite the fact that she was asking a lot from him now. In time, as he’d promised, he might see about teaching her a thing or two if she could be trusted. Until such a time he would reserve judgment on that matter.

When she did answer Hilary spared her a wary glance, eyebrow raised. She’d sounded so serious despite the almost serene look that crossed her face when she noticed him looking. A shake of his head followed this.

“Yes, definitely something to see about when trust is less of a matter of questionability,” he murmured.

It had grown silent between them after that until Hilary had led them to the small outdoor tavern. He had halted their progress here to wonder about Cerise’s wellbeing. She did look rather scrawny, especially now since she’d gotten a change of clothes that showed more of her off. They’d need to rectify that, get some meat on her bones.

When she answered, agreeing to a bite to eat, Hilary gestured for her to head up the rickety wooden stairs. He wasn’t sure how much she’d be able to stomach but at least getting something in her would do her some good. An appetite could be worked up over time after all.

“Order what you please,” he told her when they took a seat at the front counter.

Already the woman there, a vibrant redhead with quite some sass to her, was coming towards them to take their order. At least it wasn’t busy at this time of day, at least not incredibly so.

Nier chuckled as Reks looked even more determined to please Weiss. That would be a good challenge and something to keep her distracted in the coming days.

"Looks like we've certainly got quite a few interesting challenges going on," he commented lightly.

"Bah! We shall certainly see! Weiss quickly added.

The smell of something burning left him a tad concerned of what Yonah was planning on feeding them. Nier tried not to focus on it. The 'cookies' might leave him sick for a while but he would stomach it.

"I'm sure they'll be great," he answered with a smile. He knew it would be the opposite by the way things smelled already.

Time went on like this, slowly but nicely. Being away from home so much was difficult enough. He was just glad that he could make some time, unexpected as it was.

In the coming days, he would have to leave again. Reks would stay behind and keep an eye on Yonah. Her arm improved and there was no illness so he was confident she would be alright. The weeks would pass quickly for him and he often wondered how the girls were doing back in the village.

---- [x] ----

Hilary hadn't looked too pleased about the comment. She didn't know what to make of it but she waved it off. She meant no real harm. It was just something she wanted to joke about.

"What?" she pressed, "Would you trust someone who regularly trips over their own feet with a pistol?"

It wasn't much be she hoped to quell any ill feelings that her words might have caused. After that, they mostly walked in silence until he took her to a tavern.

She hadn't been sure of much on the menu but ordered whatever seemed okay. Just like many other things, she'd merely have to get used to it. After she ate, they continued on their way.

Most of the days were like this. Hilary rose early and at times would wait on her. Other times, he would wake her up, urging her along. After months had passed, she got used to his routine and mainly, used to him.

"So what's on the agenda today?" she inquired, her gaze mostly out the window, "Or just the same thing as every other day that I'm finding to be the norm?"

The days had passed slowly for Reks though it all seemed like this was normal for Nier and Yonah. The fact that the darkest it got was a twilight state threw her for a loop and no matter how much sleep she managed Reks felt exhausted. All the same she got up and went about her day, doing her best to get to know Nier, Weiss and Yonah.

Her wound still throbbed but it was healing well enough, infection having been staved off before it could set in. It was about this time when Nier had announced that he and Weiss would be off, to be back when they could make the time. While this had left Yonah bummed out she’d seen her father off and went about spending some time with Reks.

It wasn’t long after did Reks really meet Popola and her twin Devola, both of which were a great help in getting Reks started on working around the village. With Nier gone it seemed many were in need of a bit of help and though some of it was quite taxing Reks took it upon herself to take those jobs if she could and when Yonah was sleeping for a little extra money of her own. At least this way she could try to give back to Nier and Yonah and maybe eventually support herself in this weird place.

It was with this money that she eventually found and purchased a set of throwing knives from the blacksmith. They weren’t anything fancy, simple metal with a few etchings in the handle to make them worth looking at but they were at least something to call her own. It also gave her something to do in her free time aside from drawing and she’d soon set up a little target made of old wood for the purpose of practicing. It gave her time to think of home and of the way her dad used to throw knives years ago…

That day saw Reks with Yonah on the front steps of her home, enjoying the warm breeze that passed that. Reks’s hoodie had even been shed and tied about her waist to accommodate the weather as the two went about making little paper stars. Yonah had taken to the task a few days ago after Reks taught her and often she wrote little wishes on inside of them to tuck away into a little container later.

”Maybe Dad will come back sooner this time. He’s usually gone way too long,” Yonah was saying as they worked.

----[x]----

The days had passed as they normally did just with one more person to accommodate along the way. Hilary was pleased to see that Cerise was a quick learner and took to routine well enough. Only occasionally did he have to rush her along to get to whatever he needed to get done.

Several times over the months he’d left her to visit friends of his within Havana while he took to dealing and learning about the new assassin that had taken Rhona’s place. This one wasn’t near as subtle as Rhona had been but it made it easier for Hilary that was for sure. Cerise had often expressed curiosity about these times, prodding for answers though Hilary never gave any.

Today would be a little different. A week ago he’d finally deemed Cerise trustworthy enough to at least learn a little about the Templar Order, to see how she fared with these truths. At least in this way she might give more information, if she had any. Hilary still was not quite sure how useful she’d be to the Order.

“Ah, not quite,” Hilary told her, “a few friends I know of have wondered about you. I figure it is high time you meet a few while they are in Havana.”

She was obviously confused about this though Hilary would tell her no more. Instead he urged her to get ready for the day so they might start off. The grand master even wished to speak to her briefly while he had the time to spare. Hilary wondered if she’d realize how much of an honor that would be or not.

“Come now! There is no need for such wariness,” Hilary teased, noting the look on her face, “I assure you, they mean no harm.”

Travel had been long as it usual was. It had been weeks since Nier had left home once again to catch up on the work he had missed after finding Reks. Weiss was still on about leaving her with Yonah. He tried to ignore the books complaints.

The number of jobs were tedious and some dangerous. Nier was used to this kind of work. What was alarming was the number of shades that still lingered about.

He didn't like to think of why they were here. He put them down before they could cause anymore trouble.

He was glad to be in the village again. It was a familiar place offering a comfort that he often forgot about. Yonah would no doubt be excited by his return. She was always down when he left.

"And you still feel certain that Reks is trustworthy enough?" Weiss asked, "I have said it before. I know there is something about her story that seems...truth. That doesn't give you the excuse to leave a stranger with your daughter however."

Nier waved off the words easily as he walked down the path leading to him. "She doesn't seem the type to just hurt anyone without reason, if she could manage that," Nier argued, "So yea, I trust her."

He heard Weiss scoff slightly and could only imagine the annoyance the book felt. It wasn't important enough to continue arguing about it.

Nier blinked however when he reached his home. Yonah sat outside and Reks was nearby. While he wasn't affronted about this, it was something he didn't expect to see.

"I take it everything's been well?" he asked, glancing between the two, "You both seem to be having a good time. But Yonah...should you really be out of bed?"

---- [x] ----

Hilary had spoken of many friends through the months. She'd met a few here and there, mostly after he left her with them. Some of them were rather interesting. Then again, everything she learned about this place was interesting.

He at least had her attention with the sudden change of routine. Cerise had been so used to it. Something different now was a little blindsiding.

"Wondered about what...?" she asked after a moment.

Despite her prodding for answers, Hilary parted with no more information. This was another annoyance that tugged at her very often. He'd hint at something but never give more then he had to. She hated it at times.

Cerise did as she was asked however and got ready. She ruffled her hair which felt longer now that it had grown some. It was all rough in the beginning, adjusting to life without little perks but she'd managed.

"Right, well...You haven't given me much reason to doubt you yet," she finally joked in answer "I'll take that as a good thing and leave it lay."

Cerise could never really be sure of what he had in store for her. She merely followed after, hoping to make sense of whatever he was trying to show her. She always had the feeling he was hiding deeper things. Perhaps she might learn of what those were.

"Well, I'm waiting on you," she prodded lightly, "Let's be off so I might understand what you won't part with now."

Reks didn’t get much of a chance to answer Yonah before a familiar voice called out to them. Both girls blinked up though Yonah was quicker to answer, a grin splitting across her face as she darted forward to envelope Nier in hug. Reks couldn’t help but to grin a little at the sight. It was just too cute not to.

”Dad, you’re back!” Yonah pulled back to bounce on the balls of her feet, too excited to sit still. “It’s okay, I feel fine! Besides, Reks sometimes gives me piggy back rides if I don’t.”

Reks offered a shrug at the curious look she received for that. She hoped it hadn’t been overstepping any bounds but on the days that Yonah had seemed to feel better Reks hadn’t seen any harm in at least going out in the yard of theirs. A little fresh air seemed to do her a bit of good on those days.

“I hope that was all right,” Reks spoke up, tossing another completed paper star on top of the little pile they’d made. A few had drifted down a step or two with the occasional breeze that had passed by.

Yonah was reaching for Nier’s hand, tugging him towards the front door before he’d even answered Reks. Because of this Reks rose to her feet, picking up as many of the little stars as she could before they were lost or squished. Many were blank but after Reks had told Yonah about people making wishes on stars the young girl had taken it upon herself to write some down before folding the slips into the new shape.

----[x]----

Hilary shook his head and merely told her, “About you.” The question she’d asked was frankly a ridiculous one, what else would they be wondering about. These people had yet to meet her after all.

Eventually she relented to that answer, pointing out that he’d yet to steer her wrong. Hilary hadn’t needed to, there were easier ways to get what one wanted than to be tricky about it. When she was ready she took to prodding him back for all the times that she’d been rushed out the door.

“Cheeky minx,” he shot back, tossing her an amused look. Nonetheless they headed out, Hilary closing and locking the door behind them.

Their walk started out in silence to begin with; Hilary had noted that she still seemed to be taking in the whole of Havana. This honestly didn’t surprise him, it was a large place after all. If this kept her happy then Hilary would leave her to it until she spoke up further. Only if something needed to be said would he break the silence first.

His strides were long and purposeful, Cerise having to quicken her own pace at times to keep up. If this bothered her she’d had yet to complain about it.

Nier pulled his daughter into a hug when she had gotten up for one. She looked ecstatic though she always did. She looked well enough so he wouldn't complain. Even he knew she needed to be outside once in a while.

"No, it's fine," he replied to Reks, "As long as she's feeling okay, I don't mind. You being around helps. I don't like her wandering off alone."

That was always his biggest worry. She had such a penchant of wandering off. Who knew what could happen if she was on her own and collapsed or worse. It was many worries he held deep inside him.

"I take it things have been quiet around here?" he asked, watching the pair. Reks was toying with something though he didn't know what.

"Yes, quiet here and eventful elsewhere. You ran us ragged for weeks, Weiss complained.

Nier shook his head at that finally taking a seat near the porch. Getting off his feet was a bit of a blessing. He'd done so much to make up for lost time.

"It had to be done," he answered, "And it's finished now so we're fine. I honestly just wanted to get home."

He had wanted to make sure both Reks and Yonah were okay. Nier was happy to see that they were both alright and well.

---- [x] ----

Cerise frowned a little at his words. She offered a shrug in response. She was aware that Hilary was trying to figure her out. Cerise hadn't exactly provided a lot of information of where she appeared from.

"I'm not so interesting," she answered, "Not at all.

Despite those words, she knew they weren't true. She was completely foreign to this era. Due to that, no doubt Hilary had been long since curious.

She followed after him, grinning cheekily at his words. After a few months, she'd loosened up a little around him. They often prodded at each other when Hilary was in the mood.

With the house locked up, she followed him down the streets of Havana. As usual, his strides were long. Hilary didn't have time to be slow she found. The man had places to be.

"So I take it all of this is important?" she inquired after a bit of a time passed.

It seemed like it if she was completely honest with herself. Hilary had never mentioned seeing anyone in the past so bringing it up now left her wondering. She was a little antsy about it, impatient even. Who could he want her to meet with despite the many months of residing in his home?

Reks had grown a little worried when Nier had began talking about Yonah being outside, hinting that it might be best if she was in bed instead. This worry was unnecessary it seemed for Nier was quick to mention that it was no big deal so long as Yonah had someone around at the time. A smile and a nod were spared in answer to this before Yonah had started to tug Nier inside.

“As far as I know it has been,” Reks said, thinking about everything that had gone on in the last few weeks. Other than running about and doing the odd jobs that Popola and Devola found for her things had been calm.

”That’s because you scare all the Shades away!” Yonah chimed in, smiling up at Nier as she’d led him to the front steps.

Nier had wasted no time in sitting down, looking as if he hadn’t done just that in days. Reks wondered how far out they’d gone and what all they’d seen and done. The thought alone was a little exciting and made her stir crazy though she quashed that before it was too bothersome. There were other things to worry and think about.

“Well, have some stars for good work,” Reks teased dryly, picking out a few of the blank ones. She’d rather not give away the ones Yonah had written on, those were hers to keep or give. Once she’d found a few that Reks was sure she’d made herself she handed them over, dropping them into Nier’s palm.

Yonah giggled at the confused look on Nier’s face. When that look was aimed Reks’s way she merely shrugged; it wasn’t like she’d had anything else to pitch in to say to the conversation.

”We made stars, see? People used to make wishes on them so maybe these paper ones will work too!” Yonah explained.

----[x]----

”Underselling yourself will do you no favors,” Hilary pointed out simply.

It was a habit of hers he’d noticed though there was little he could do about it. Each time he pointed it out it didn’t seem to do much good; perhaps it was just who she was, a part of her to never be changed. That thought was rather irking to Hilary. He was a man who knew how to put himself forward after all.

It was quiet again for a time before Cerise spoke up. He glanced her way, humming quietly to show he’d heard her. It must have been obvious if she was asking about it or perhaps she was just asking like she always did. She seemed to have an insatiable curiosity.

“Perhaps,” Hilary noted lightly. “They are important people no matter the reason for this visit of ours.”

That was truer than Cerise might ever know. He’d let her find out, to make her own impression upon them. Hilary didn’t see a reason to intervene with that, it would only make Cerise a stuttering mess. At least, that was the worry he had about it all. If she acted natural things might go smoother and answers might be found quicker to who she was and from where.

’She displays such strange knowledge sometimes,’ he brooded briefly before shaking the thought away. If it hadn’t been for that, however, he might have scooted her along months ago before she’d begun to warm to him and they’d grown to get along.

Reks looked a little nervous when he mentioned that he'd rather have Yonah inside. While that was true, he knew she needed a little air here and there as well. He didn't want her to grow too restless.

"It's alright," he reassured, "Don't worry about it. Yonah, you're looking a little better."

Getting off his feet was a nice change of pace. What Reks had said was a relief. Yonah had quickly backed it up over the fact that he had fought the shades. Nier spared her a smile, shaking his head.

"Well they shouldn't be bothering the village anytime soon," he jested back, "Or I'll just have to chase them away again."

Nier blinked when Reks mentioned giving him 'stars' for good work. He raised a brow, holding out his hand as she scooped something up. She placed little pieces in his hand. Studying them, they were shaped oddly, puckered at the edges.

"You made these?" he inquired after a moment, "I've never seen anything like this."

Weiss hummed, hovering nearby. He seemed to study the pieces of paper just as long as Nier did. It looked like an odd little craft.

"Paper folding. Yes, I've heard of this," Weiss explained, "I do not know of anyone who practices it. It is a bit of a lost art from the old world..."

Nier hummed in thought on that. Weiss had mentioned a few things about Reks and her story. From what Weiss had to say, it seemed more and more possible that she really was telling the truth.

---- [x] ----

Cerise waved off his words rather easily. She didn't think of herself as much but Hilary seemed convinced that that was the opposite. What importance could she serve? She was just a strange woman from a different era.

Regardless of that, the subject was dropped as they walked. She kept her gaze around her, well aware that she needed to be wary. She'd seen some amount of violence as they weeks had gone by. Now aware of what Hilary was talking about, she knew better then to overstep her boundaries.

When he finally mentioned that the people she would meet were important, she hummed in reply. She wasn't sure if she should be nervous about that or not.

"You could just...you know, tell me?" she pushed a little more, "Give me some kind of image to go on or something, man. You mention these people are important and that doesn't exactly calm my nerves."

How was she supposed to present herself? What was she supposed to say? These were only a couple of questions that ran through her head at the thought.

"Don't give me that look," she prodded as he glanced down at her. She pouted a little as she continued, "Come oooonnnn. You never tell me anything."

Cerise would try to remain patient. It was hard to go about when he wouldn't say anything more. She'd just have to wait and meet these people, she supposed.

It was a relief when Nier mentioned that no Shades should be coming about to wreak havoc on the village if he could help it. While her wound had healed up in the weeks that had passed it had left a nasty scar; a reminder of what just one Shade could do. Reks would rather not run into another, at least not until she could defend herself somehow.

When she offered the little paper stars Nier had taken them, inspecting them after. Even Weiss seemed curious of them, hovering closer over Nier’s shoulder to get a look. Yonah and Reks waited quietly for either to say something. Reks found herself a little nervous about it again, unsure of what was normal here and what wasn’t evne after learning bit from Popola when the other woman had had the time to spare.

“Yeah, I used to make them all the time,” Reks told them.

Reks blinked at Weiss’s assessment. Paper folding was a lost art? The idea was a strange one; she’d had a friend who’d always delved in it when she’d had the chance and now to think it wasn’t practiced at all. She shook her head at that.

“Well, not so much now, I guess,” she muttered for lack of any other response.

Yonah was quick to speak up after that, perhaps eager to tell her father all about what had happened since he’d been away. It was obvious the two were close. “Reks has been teaching me a lot, Dad! We made lots of drawings and I have a new recipe from Popola to try.’

If it hadn’t been for Yonah speaking up Reks might have still felt awkward about the reminder that she was not really part of this place. As it stood Yonah helped to calm things, in her own way, and took the focus off of Reks’s apparent oddness. Reks wouldn’t mention it but she was extremely grateful to Yonah for that.

----[x]----

Despite the lull in conversation it didn’t take Cerise long to speak up again, trying to get more answers. In a way it was a little amusing, sometimes anyways. Hilary was in a good mood today, however, and so he’d entertain her a little even if he didn’t intend to give any answers.

“Ah, but where would the fun be in that, Cerise?” he shot back lightly. “If you were prepared then you would not make an accurate first impression!”

Tis didn’t do her any favors, that was for sure. Already she was pestering him for more information though Hilary remained tight-lipped on the matter. He was sure that she’d make a fine impression, or at least enough of one that she’d be kept around without reason to worry. She often let slip little tidbits of information that were baffling, giving the idea that whatever place she was from was rather advanced in some way.

A chuckle left him as he shook her off. One would have thought that she’d have figured out it was futile to pester him for information. Hilary had grown quite tight-lipped about information he deemed important enough not to share after all.

“Perhaps I have my reasons as to why,” he said amicably enough. This only seemed to cause Cerise to pout some more.

As they bantered Hilary continued to lead them on the more open paths, skirting around some of the busier streets. Some were already up and about that day, getting an early start and it hadn’t been like Cerise had gotten up very early either.

Whatever Reks thought of the lost art comment, she didn't express it just yet. Nier didn't push it either. Perhaps it might have been a sensitive issue. He hadn't gotten to know her quite yet, after all.

"Well, they're rather cute," he brought up, "It's an interesting art, I can say that much."

He twisted the little paper star in between his fingers. It was so delicate. He was a little afraid that he would crush it in between his fingers.

"I wonder if Popola has any books about this," he commented absentmindedly.

He glanced up when Yonah spoke of their activities these last few weeks. A smile tugged at his lips. "Sounds like you've been busy," he noted lightly, "Good, I'm glad to hear that. At least you two were entertained."

Nier wasn't so thrilled about trying another recipe. He kept that to himself though Reks might have had an idea about Yonah's cooking now. No doubt the young girl had tried to cook for her.

---- [x] ----

Hilary would part with no more information no matter what she did to try and get it out of him. As he said, it would just give her an idea of what to expect. For him, that might not be any fun.

She pouted, crossing her arms over her chest in a huff. The dark mark on her forearm had remained, confirming it wasn't a simple ink that could be washed away. After so many months, she'd gotten used to it being there. Neither of them was sure what it meant or even what language the characters were.

"You're such a jerk," she replied. Her tone still had an odd bit of teasing in it however.

She followed him as he turned. The place he was leading her was different then she was used to. Cerise had seen a lot of Havana but no where near the giant fort that she'd taken notice to in the distance.

"Obviously you do," she teased in response, "Or you just enjoy watching my inner turmoil cause you're 'nice' like that."

It wouldn't have surprised her if she was honest. Regardless, she was comfortable jesting with him, more so then months before. Things certainly had relaxed between them.

Nier was still studying one of the little paper stars, rolling it between his fingers. The little thing looked even tinier when he held it and it was a little surprising to see he hadn’t outright smashed it on accident. He seemed rather enamored with the idea of folding paper into new shapes, however unimpressive they might have been. It wasn’t like they had any kind of colored sheets or ones with cute patterns to liven up the stars.

”Can you find out next time you go to the library?” Yonah asked. Perhaps she wanted to do more with paper folding if there was a way to get more instructions for more complicated projects.

“She takes to things quickly when she’s feeling well,” Reks mused out loud. Whether or not she had any latent talent for those things was another matter entirely though these things didn’t seem to deter Yonah. Reks had quickly learned that through the young girl’s attempts at cooking.

Yonah beamed at that observation, having taken the seat on the steps beside Nier. Reks took it upon herself to rise to her feet, toying with the little stars she still had in hand. She’d be sure to tuck them away for Yonah later, the young girl seemed to like collecting them in the last few days. For now it might be best to let father and daughter catch up.

“Why don’t I let you guys catch up?” she offered. “I’ve been wanting to practice with those throwing knives today anyways.”

She didn’t wait long for an answer to that, heading in to place the paper stars on Yonah’s bedside table before she’d grab her small set of knives. With that done it was a short trip to the target she’d set up nearby, out of the way of anyone who wandered this far from the main village. This way Nier, Yonah and even Weiss could all chat in peace. Though Reks might have gotten to know Yonah over the last few weeks she couldn’t say the same about Nier and Weiss after all.

----[x]----

Another chuckle left him when she scoffed. She was quite quick to argue with him even if it was just a bit of teasing. ’At least she’s grown comfortable enough to do so,’ Hilary reflected.

“Hmm, perhaps. There is little to be done about that now however,” Hilary rebutted lightly. If anything that was truth, he was long since set in his ways.

He waved dismissively at her next argument. He wasn’t known for his kindness, most days he did not go out of his way for someone else he didn’t know unless there was something in it for him in the long run. That had even been the case for Rhona, it was why she was where she was now…

The thought was one that came and went often and Hilary had to work to ignore the thought and guilt that came with it. If he noticed that he felt this less and less when he spent the time with Cerise then he didn’t act upon it. There was no need to if he did anyways.

The walk to Torres’s place was a quiet one after that. Hilary didn’t mind as it gave him time to prepare for what might happen. Cerise hadn’t been a problem though who was to say when she came to know someone like Julien. If that happened Hilary might need to run a bit of interference to keep things calm.

It looked like Cerise was taking in the sights some more as they walked in that time, perhaps dwelling on something or other. She was a thoughtful one, he’d found. When things got quiet she got that look on her face, a puckering of her brow and the set of her mouth told him all he needed in those times. In a way it was kind of cute, especially so when she didn’t think anyone might be watching.

Yonah seemed despite the passed days without him. That was good. Her mood improving as much as it had was a bit of a miracle. Most days she was in her bed, merely sleeping. That was when she wasn't sneaking out.

"I'll check sometime," he replied, "She probably has something."

The books had been from the old world. By some miracle, they had been preserved. They were left for those who wanted to learn about how the previous world had been.

"That's good! I'm sure you've had enough to teach her," Nier commented, "She's always been curious of many things, after all."

He glanced at Yonah, noting the large smile on her lips. Reks really had improved her mood. He couldn't be anymore thankful for that.

Reks wanted to practice with her knives again, so he nodded in response and allowed her to walk away. For a brief few moments he watched her go. She was looking much better then before. Nier felt relief in that and a little tinge of fondness tug at him as well.

"What do you think of her?" he asked after a moment, "She treat you well?"

---- [x] ----

Without anymore information, she left the conversation be. She merely spared a smile when he jested with her again. It was a good change of pace when he was in the mood. The distraction really helped. Cerise didn't like to admit it but a lot of thoughts clouded her mind most days.

Havana had barely woken but it felt like the day was getting started quickly. This part of the city was a little more guarded, she noticed. Mean wearing yellow uniforms, those she learned to be Spanish, patrolled the area carefully.

If Hilary had anything more on his mind, he didn't express it. She was left to brood over it all, especially that of her family again. She often wondered if they were coping well with her sudden disappearance.

A pang of guilt ran through her, unfound or not. The ball she picked up had done this. Still, she often blamed herself for allowing herself to pick the strange object up.

She blinked as Hilary's pace seemed to slow a little. He spoke quickly with two guards near a gate. A large wall protected a building inside from what Cerise could see. Cerise tried not to let her curiosity get the best of her.

When they were allowed entrance, Cerise gaze quickly fell onto just about anything it could land on. "Well...you weren't lying," she commented, "This place does look important."

» |Nier| Reks
» |DMC RP| Fighting the Good Fight |Reserved|
» {|ACIV:BF|} Over and Out {1-on-1 rp}
» {|ACIV:BF|} Justify {|1-on-1 rp|}
» ACIV Black Flag: Amber [W.I.P]