Thoma x Reader

Chapter 1

He huffed. "Hardly! I'll have to show you around sometime, we could get dinner and—"

"No thank you."

Hirotatsu chuckled. "Damn, worth a try. You're just far too pretty to waste away out here, you know? I'm just surprised if you aren't married already."

You only hummed in response, although internally you were rolling your eyes. You decided not to waste a smart remark on this guy. Fortunately, he wasn't so talkative after being shot down.

The sun was kissing the horizon by the time you and your escort arrived at the Kamisato Estate. This wasn't your first time here, but you allowed the soldier to show you the way, making sure to keep a few paces behind him in case he thought of any other brainless remarks. He led you along the stone path, up some stairs, and down again before crossing the dry garden and setting foot on the manicured lawn.

A different man came into view, one you recognized, but didn't know very well. You had met him before when accompanying your father, so you knew that he was also with the Shuumatsuban. Initially leaning against the railing, he turned as he heard your approach. He waved away your escort, and you joined him, looking out over the ocean as the moon rose from its depths.

You bowed. "Good evening, Kazuaki. You asked to see me?"

He nodded and cast his eyes on you, something you couldn't quite place darkening his expression. You faced him fully and tipped your head a little to one side, indicating that you were listening.

He spoke quietly so as not to be overheard. "As you know, it's been a while since your father was called away."

"Yes, almost three months now." Despite your best efforts, a little irritation leaked into your tone. As your elder, Kazuaki was someone you respected. However, you found his vagueness distasteful, wishing he'd just cut to the chase.

"Right. This amount of time is highly unusual." He drew in a breath, suddenly unable to meet your expectant stare. "He won't be coming back. I'm very sorry."

You stared at him for a long moment as those words hardly registered. Turning to lean on your forearms against the fence, you clasped your hands together and stared at the moon. The ensuing silence was devastating.

"(Y/n)?" Kazuaki sounded as distant as he did uncertain. You weren't standing beside him at that peaceful estate, you were miles away, oceans away, as your father apparently was.

You shook your head to bring yourself back. "His body?"

"I'm sorry, but it's across enemy lines, so we were unable to recover it. That is all I am able to disclose about the matter—you know how it is."

Barely above a whisper, you replied, "I see."

"I know this is a lot to take in. This was not our only casualty, and there is still much work to be done. Has anyone talked to you about your initiation?"

"No."

"Well, when you're ready, you know where to find me. If I didn't already say it, I'm sorry for your loss. He was a good man." He paused again. "I'll give you a moment, but I suggest spending the night here, and I'll arrange for an escort in the morning."

You shut your eyes so tightly that they ached, listening to the whisper of his shoes over the grass as he retreated. The stars blurred and swam together when you snapped your eyes open. You wanted to scream, but all that came out was a harsh, shaky breath.

Eventually, you collected yourself enough to straighten up and start making your way out of the estate. You managed to slip past Kazuaki, almost making it to the entrance before you were stopped. "Excuse me, Miss!" a woman called out, catching up with you. You halted but didn't look back. "A room has been prepared for your stay."

You took a deep breath, and turned your head to give her a soft smile. "Thank you, but unfortunately I should be on my way. Excuse me."

Another voice spoke up. "Where does a girl like you need to be at a time like this, anyway? Can't you see it's not safe out?" Your eyes flitted over to see Hirotatsu, the soldier who had escorted you before, as he butted in. "It isn't as peaceful as the countryside, y'know."

He strolled right up to you and reached a hand out to pat your head, but you swiftly caught his wrist to prevent it. "Do not touch me," you warned, a threat lacing your simple words.

THOMA'S POV

Thoma placed the broom back into the outdoor closet with a weary sigh, when sharp voices caught his attention. He quickly shut the door and hurried around the building to see a girl standing before one of the soldiers and clutching his wrist as she glared up at him. Quietly making his way closer in case his assistance was needed, Thoma was able to hear the soldier's low reply.

His eyes were narrowed at the girl. "Don't be stupid. You can leave in the morning, but no sooner. You're welcome."

Quick as a whip, she struck out with her free hand and punched him square in the face, simultaneously releasing his wrist and turning on her heel to walk away. The soldier cursed and stumbled back a little, cupping his hands over his nose as blood leaked from between his fingers. By the time he looked up, she was already gone.

Thoma hurried over, pulling a handkerchief from his jacket pocket and extending it. The soldier quickly snatched it up without so much as a 'thanks', looking pissed as all hell. "What happened here?" Thoma asked the woman, Takami.

The soldier quickly piped up instead, pulling the cloth away for a moment to speak. "I was trying to be nice and she fucking hit me. Stupid country jackasses, no reasoning with them." His nose still bled heavily, making Thoma wince.

Takami was frowning worriedly. "He could've been more tactful, but I honestly don't know what that was about. She was speaking with Kazuaki earlier, and was supposed to wait here until morning."

Thoma glanced once more toward the gate, letting out a sigh. "Well, she's gone now. It seems the best course of action would be to leave her alone."

Takami nodded. "I'll inform Kazuaki. Thank you, Thoma."