The Border of Asakusa (Benimaru x Reader)

The Academy Showcase (Pt 8) *

Beni's hand tightened around yours, still cool to the touch as he steamed the alcohol from his blood.

"We're gunna smile, we're gunna wave, and we're gunna go home," You reassured. The intensity in his eyes shifted to a subtle sorrow when he looked at you. He hated it here. He hated the politics. He hated the risk for you. But, he played along because you'd asked him to. Because it was important to you. You kissed his cheek softly. "I'm going to grab Company 8 so we can stand together."

As you walked away, one of the monks was steeling himself to approach Beni and Konro. "Sir, your winnings?" He was clearly displeased to be handing over such a large sum of money, but that displeasure was outweighed by his fear of the recipient.

"What?" Beni, uninterested, turned to the official. "Oh shit. That's right." He accepted the bulging envelope and the monk took his leave immediately.

"What the hell is that?" Konro asked, suspicious.

Beni's thumb fanned the stack of bills. "I bet on you two to win your match."

Krono let out a frustrated exhale. "Idiot. With your luck, I'm surprised you didn't jinx us. How much did you bet?" Konro eyed the envelope.

Beni slapped the stack against his palm. "Don't worry about it." His focus returned to you, as Mara and Vulcan followed you toward Obi.

Konro dropped his head in his hand.

Shay chose to remain separate from Company 7 and 8 for diplomacy, but Oze was happy to welcome her to the military officer's table. Joker had wisely made himself scarce. Obi put a hand on Beni's shoulder, then gave an encouraging pat as the collective returned to Beni and Konro's standing table. He wouldn't show it, but he appreciated the support of the 8th. You brought a few snacks, popping a small crab cake in your mouth between Beni and Konro. The emperor must have been delayed entering the main hall, allowing the crowd to wait in anxious, awkward, quiet anticipation.

"He's sure taking his sweet time." Beni sighed. You brushed his hand under the table, then looked at Obi, inviting him to start a conversation to alleviate the tension.

"Well. Maybe this would be a good time for Lieutenant L/n to enlighten us on her plans for the joint 7th and 8th combat training. I'm assuming we're hosting?"

"That would be great! Yes!" You leaned in across the table, your hand still in subtle contact with Beni's.

"I'm thinking you, Konro, Mara, and myself as the primary instructors." Obi tilted his head. "Maki will want to help too. Don't think we'll need to drag you into it, Shinmon, but you're always welcome."

"Oh, but you'll drag me into it?" Mara taunted her captain.

Obi smirked. "Y/n is dragging you into it, technically."

"Please, Mar?" You smiled sweetly at her.

"Mhmm. I'm doing it for you. Don't go thinking I'm doing it for the kids."

"Oh, I would never." You teased with an added drama to your voice. "Let's shoot for a week or two from now."

"Beni, you missed Y/n's sister. She's... still a piece of work." Mara sipped her wine, raising her eyebrows to you.

"Wait what?" Beni turned his body towards you.

You clicked your tongue. "That's why I came to get you. I was going to vent. But you made me feel better without needing to do so, so I'll tell ya all about it when we get home."

"Who was she?" He still faced you, as you reached for a macaron.

Your satisfied smile grew as you took a bite. "That ginger you blew off."