The Boy (Bonus Chapter for Reader Slainpnier, 55)
(In the previous chapter, the brigade's name was changed from Red Lightning to Crimson Comet. Yi Zui had once again exposed his utter lack of naming talent. This was the final bonus chapter for reader Slainpnier, though there would be another chapter afterward. Thanks again to everyone for your tips. Also, in Chapter 1813, I wrote a location incorrectly. The plot was fine, but the description was wrong. Eshe was with Shirakawa Shuu's team, while Harvey, the fourth of the group, was with Char's team. I wanted to revise it, but couldn't. Contacting the editor is such a hassle.)
Hearing Char's words, Ficajia showed neither surprise nor astonishment. She was neither excited nor happily agreeable, nor was she calm. Instead, her pupils constricted and her entire body trembled. She looked at Char with terror on her face, shaking her head as though she had seen or heard something she found impossible to believe and feared most of all.
Ficajia unconsciously took two steps back, feeling cold all over. "No... Who are you? Who exactly are you?! My child... my child..."
Someone who usually appeared strong and indifferent had, in that instant before Char, revealed such weakness and pitiful vulnerability that it made one ache for her. What Char had said, the things he had mentioned, had indeed frightened this woman with her outward strength.
"It seems I frightened you. I apologize for that." Char's lips curled slightly. Though he claimed to be apologizing, there was not the slightest trace of remorse on his face. He continued, "Let me make this clear first. Before coming to this base, I conducted some investigations. I learned a few things about you as well. Your child is a lovely boy, but he isn't in my hands.