Part 588: Lon'qu A

You look to have the weight of the world on your shoulders, Lon'qu.

I am the same as always.

I know you better than that. You're distracted by something. I mean, Minerva is right behind you and you haven't even noticed!

(Minerva roars)

Agh! W-what fool's game are you playing?!

Heh. Well, that woke you up a little. Listen, Lon'qu. I dredged up a past you wanted to forget, and I'm sorry.

Do not apologize.

You were right to talk to me, and I'm glad to know the truth. When you spoke of her parents' forgiveness, I thought it would only bring more pain.

But, since then, the nightmares that plague me have become... fewer.

Nightmares?

Many a night have I been forced to relive the moment she died protecting me. Ke'ri died because she was my friend. Never again shall I repeat that mistake. I vowed that I would let no one get close enough to be hurt by me again.

...So this is why you fear to have contact with women.

My nightmares will never fade completely, nor will my fear of friendship and love. But for the first time, I can imagine a future that might be different.

Thank you, Cherche.

I only told you what I knew. ...But perhaps, if you would allow, we can try to cure the remaining hurt together? For a start, we could go for a ride on Minerva. Perhaps even bring a picnic-

I am... not ready.

Oh. Yes, of course not.

But, if you can think of something else that might help...

I will let you know.