487 The Systems History: How she captured him (1/2)

”Yamada-san!” After purchasing the ornament, Aki followed her tracks which led him to one of the pubs in the capital. Hastening his pace, he soon reached Tora's continuous strides.

”Hmm?” Baffled that he followed her, Tora stopped as she tilted her head to the side.

”I — uh…” Attempting to give the ornament he bought for her, Aki suddenly choked as his words wouldn't come out. He was a smooth-talker and yet, it seemed the words were stuck in his throat.

”Do you want to drink?” After some time, Tora offered. In normal days, Tora would just ignore him. However, since he helped her in choosing a gift, she wanted to return the favor. Moreover, she somehow felt that she wanted someone to talk to.

”Oh…” Surprised by the sudden invitation, Aki blinked his eyes numerous times before he saw Tora resumed on her strides that snapped him and followed behind her. Well, that was quite rare of an invitation hence, why would he reject?

****

”What a lively town…” From the upper floor of the establishment, Aki stared at the bustling nightlife of the town. It was night, but unlike other small towns, nobles, peasant, and other commoners of the kingdom were out, watching a group of performers.

Since the Emperor's birthday was coming, performers were performing to honor the late king and his venture. And yet, despite the respect they were showing, no one was fond of that tyrant king. Regardless, it has been a tradition and this, this had just become a mere entertainment without taking the ”great” achievements of the royal family.

”It is,” Gazing down, Tora subtly smiled at the peacefulness of this place as if they were free from fear of war.

”Alas, it was bustling if people are ridiculing the royal family.” Staring at the performance, Aki knew that this performance that was a facade to honor the late emperor was a mere show for entertainment. It wasn't encouraging the people to hail the royal family, despite the obvious message of how great the former king.

”The royal family huh…” Without turning to him, Tora remained her eyes on the joyous area down the establishment. ”I wonder if there's a day that his majesty would see this.” her tone was low and if Aki wasn't keen enough, he wouldn't be able to hear her.

”Huh?” Aki slightly creased his brows as he slowly turned to see her side profile. ”Why would you want to his royal highness to see that his kindred were being mocked?” Insulted a little, a frown flashed across his face for a split second which Tora didn't notice as her gaze was glued on the occurrence below them.