Later, back at the residence, the two of them wandered aimlessly through the streets near the animal sanctuary. Albrecht’s mind began to wander, concern creeping in as he thought about Kaye.
Albrecht: *Scratching his nape* (Where should I leave her while I’m at training?) *Speaks* Ugh… this is kind of boring to even think about.
As he looked away in thought, his eyes caught sight of her surrounded by stray animals. Kaye gazed back at him with a calm, unreadable expression. Dogs and cats gathered around her, nudging for attention. She gently petted them, still keeping her eyes on Albrecht.
Albrecht: Shorty, that mandatory army training is such a drag. I'd much rather be spending time with you.
She remained silent, her gaze fixed on him without a word. Before long, they arrived at the shipyard dock area—he had walked her there himself.
Albrecht: I’ve changed my mind. I’m taking you with me. Let’s wait for a carriage to bring us there, Shorty.
Kaye: *with a look of disgust* Cut it out.
Albrecht bent down slightly, lowering himself so their faces were closer.
Albrecht: *Smirk* When we get there, you can stay by the Fountain of Aid with the local residents, alright?
A brief silence followed. Then, without another word, Kaye turned and walked away.
Kaye: Ok.
As they walk down the stairs, Albrecht continued following her, still crouched with bent knees in a goofy attempt to match her height. When Kaye finally noticed, they locked eyes in a long, tense pause—until she suddenly lunged at him. Albrecht burst into laughter and took off running.
Kaye: GET BACK HERE!
Albrecht: You hit puberty too fast, Shorty!
Kaye growled in frustration, grabbing at the edge of his leather jacket. Her grip slipped—then, without hesitation, she leapt at him like an exaggerated chibi character. Albrecht can't stop laughing while he's being chased.
Kaye: Lagot ka sa akin, NYAH~!
After a few minutes, they arrived at the Pious training ground. From outside the fence, they could see groups of freshmen and junior Pious soldiers marching in formation.
Albrecht: Welcome to our training ground... So... *Chuckles* See you soon. *Mock seriousness* Behave—or you're dead to me.
They paused for a moment. Kaye stood still, her expression neutral, frozen in place. Albrecht leaned in, about to kiss her on the head.
Albrecht: ...Nah, I’m just messing with you. Love you, baby Shorty.
As his lips touched her head, a sudden jolt—like a glitch—hit them both. A vision flash from another world flickered into their minds: a boy pressing a kiss to Kaye’s head as she stood in a school uniform, unfamiliar yet hauntingly familiar from past memory.
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