Advising

Nihilister - 6 (Pilgrim)

He stood by the Elevator, waiting for the platform to send down a visitor from the surface.

The Dome of Eternity showed a sunny blue sky. With the cold breezes slipping through the gaps of the door he's expected to open at any second, he reminded himself it was already March. It was the season of cherry blossom. Trees in the Central Park bloomed, petals scattered around the Outpost.

He checked their conversation on BlaBla Chat one last time before inserting it back into the pocket. For this occasion, he decided to go for a casual outfit rather than the military uniform he'd put on most of the time.

The Elevator rang a sound, its door slid open. He considered that as a cue to stay attentive.

Nihilister's fierce gaze didn't meet his. She was grabbing onto the handguard with an arm reaching to something on her back. The usual revealing combat attire she preferred had been covered up by a kimono, depicting many sparks of tinder.

"Urgh! Why is this so difficult to wrap around?!"

Her raising voice caused him to lift an eyebrow.

"Are you okay?" He asked in concern.

"This kimono thingy is annoying! Why doesn't it fit me? That Tia girl made it look so simple to put on!"

He quickly came over, offering help.

"Slow down, you don't brute force this type of garment." He got the broad sash loosely wrapped around her waist. "Keep your posture straight, I'll fix it."

She listened to him. The fresh attire soon properly hugged her figure without causing a discomfort.

Nihilister's hair tied up in a bun, allowing her bare nape to be caught in his line of sight. It gave him a sense of alluring and confusion at the same time. Why was she wearing a kimono? Did she get this from Tia? They were already this close?

"I've never thought you would be interested in wearing this."

"Hah?" Nihilister shot him a glare. Whoops, he probably shouldn't have said that. "I'm wearing it now. Is that a problem, Human?"

Not at all, he was just surprised to see her in such a different look. If anything, this could be a nice change for Nihilister. She's started to care more about the human side she'd once casted away to become a Heretic.

The Fire Incarnate was burning hotter than ever, only more controlled and gentle.

Nihilister spread the umbrella over her head, carefully taking her steps as they walked together.

"Where do you want to go?" He asked.

"Just wanted to hang around." She said.

"Hang around?"

"Hang around." She turned to him. "With you."

He was sure the shade of the umbrella didn't play tricks on his eyes. The bashfulness of her expression was on full display.

"......"

Thoughts were popping up, he decided to push all those questions to the back of his mind. Nihilister wanted this moment, he'd gladly give it.

"Sure."

He held her hand as they walked under the cherry blossom trees.