The Arms That Shield the World
"You are thinking too much," he said calmly, though the faintest warmth touched his tone. "Cultivate well. Grow strong. That is enough."
Rias smiled faintly through the lingering moisture in her eyes.
"Yes… Teacher."
The fire crackled behind them, sparks rising into the night like wandering stars.
Rias was stunned by his domineering words, and her heart warmed uncontrollably. How could one not feel love for such a Teacher?
Ah… full of security, warmth… something like love.
Her heartbeat grew louder in her ears. Those few simple sentences had struck deeper than any sweet promise whispered in palace corridors.
After pondering for a moment, she remembered that she had once hidden the truth. Guilt crept back into her chest. She lowered her head in shame.
"Teacher… I know my mistake. I will never hide anything from you again."
