Your Lie In April: Across The Multiverse

YLIA x Multiverse Episode 15: Artists and Warriors

Episode 15: Artists and Warriors

"I'm just saying, Tsubaki!" Nao's concerned voice said over the phone. "I've only ever heard Watari compliment your looks, your body, or something that's always along those lines! And the look he'd get in his eye when we were in our volleyball uniforms didn't sit right with me."

Tsubaki sighed. "Thank you for telling me about this, Nao. I'll talk to him about it soon, okay?"

"Thank you, Tsubaki," Nao said on the other end. "Have a good night."

Tsubaki clicked off the phone, and yawned as she sank into the cushions of the large, black recliner. The past forty-eight hours had been the most eventful of her life. Her and Watari's surprise visit to Kousei, having to hurry home on the subway upon announcement of the coming incursion, and then sitting in that cramped evacuation shelter for who knows how long before the all-clear signal was given.

But it was all over at last, and Tsubaki was grateful for the much-needed break. The TV was currently tuned in to a news channel reporting on the aftermath of the space battle, and Tsubaki's mother strolled in to check the updates.

"What was that call about?" Yua inquired to her daughter.

"Oh, just Nao asking me if I'm okay and to talk to Watari about some stuff," Tsubaki waved her hand dismissively. "Nothing major."

Just then, the sound of bagpipes chorused through the living room speakers, and Tsubaki's ears perked up.

"My goodness!" Yua exclaimed. "It seems the Scottish Military Band are the perfect messengers to send this Grand Admiral fellow a message of our gratitude!"

.....................................

Grand Admiral Thrawn, his guard detail behind him, stood straight and tall as his red eyes beheld the grand spectacle before him. Though this country he'd heard was called "Scotland" was very rainy this time of year, the spirit of the Scottish citizenry were far from dull. As the Scottish military's Marching Band paraded in front of his booth, the Admiral felt an odd sense of kinship with them. Their bright scarlet uniforms, adorned by their tall black hats which matched their black boots, painted a picture of excellence and prestige.

And that was not even the best part.

Every member of the band, whether they were on the bagpipes, drums, or other instrument, played their part of Scotland The Brave with expressive precision and gave off a demeanor of steeled confidence. The triumphant anthem augmented that aura with a show of strength and tradition. For the first time in a long time, Thrawn felt a smile come across his face. Despite their nation's small size, these men and women marched with great pride in their homeland. The Admiral was almost envious, really, for he saw this ensemble could teach the Royal Chiss Infantry Band a thing or two.

On Thrawn's right and left sat Captain Carter and Captain America, who he held in high regard after talking with them for only a couple hours. Super soldiers who fought for their world while maintaining noble humility? A commander of Thrawn's stature could not ask for better soldiers to be under his command. Had these powerhouses of combat not had obligations elsewhere, Thrawn would've recruited them into the Chiss Ascendency on the spot. As The Watcher had already emphasized, however, some things would have to remain the same.

"It's quite the spectacle, isn't it?" Carter's voice spoke up. "I've always been envious of those who can partake in such an artistic endeavor."

"Yes indeed it is, ma'am," Thrawn nodded. "Music is truly a unique force to be reckoned with, whether it is serving as a joyous shout of victory or a eulogy of mourning."