Hotaru
nothing's fair in love and war
Letting him pluck the instrument from her fingers, she flattens her hand to the table and takes a quiet moment to simply sink into his presence. They might not be at their best right now, but she has a sinking feeling that she will need this moment to sustain her in the coming days. None of this is going to be easy, and part of her wants to agree with him and take the easy way out. Refuse to go. But that’s not the path that would best help them in her eyes. “I think they will be,” she notes, but there’s clear agreement that if the answer is no, they will not pursue that avenue. His vow lends strength to her spine, and she gives a tired smile. She too would love to take her revenge, but Hotaru plays long games. Short-sighted vindication will not serve her well - it already hadn’t, with the start of all this.
Part of her - emotional, pregnant, intimidated against all reason - wants to say ‘don’t leave me behind’. But there is nobody she trusts more in this world, and she knows in her heart that he wouldn’t. That Halo would sooner burn than keep him here with such fragile bonds such as laws and politics. If she needs him, he will be there. It doesn’t mean she isn’t scared for her heart. The rest of her is already suited for this method of war. Instead she reaches to place her hand over his, more for her own benefit than anything. Silent and burdened as she enjoys her last few moments before facing her self-directed jailing.
- FIN
