Zero’s response is unexpected, Takumi thinks. It took a great deal for him to muster up any kind of gratitude—even a simple ‘thank you’ takes some effort when giving to a Nohrian. Let’s get to know each other even better next time. For what Takumi’s thought of Zero, this response seems a little untrustworthy, though, despite Takumi’s siblings suggesting they all warm up, it’s hard for the archer to swallow any bitterness that still lingers. Takumi takes a moment to eye Zero—to try and spot any cracks in this seemingly nice offer. But alas, he finds nothing. It’s hard to tell what’s truthful and what isn’t when it comes to him. “ —– I guess… maybe,” Takumi says, “getting along will benefit the both of us when it comes to the battlefield. But…” Takumi pauses for a moment.
“I’m still keeping a close eye on you as well. Don’t think everyone will miraculously open themselves up just like that. Me showing my gratitude is different.” Takumi speaks under the assumption that Zero thinks he’s naive—a thought that has some reason to it. “After all, we Hoshidans have seen the nature of you before.”
Such an unexpected crack in little prince Takumi's fierce facade. Lowering himself for a mere filth ridden common, a lecherous no one, even if it were but praise in the form of bisected words coiled oh so hesitantly about the whip like flat of his readily barbed tongue. Please. If everyone opened themselves so easy it would reap the fun of penetration. Oh, for what it may be entirely worth, he savors every word that spills forth, a wellspring of fervor dared to set fire to his highness’ very lips should unkindness dip in his favor 'pon unruly instant.
Until then, he thinks, allowing the silence to prick like a forbidden thorn. The only crack Takumi finds in him stems from the seething curve of a smile so wicked, after all.
“Mm. Yes, yes. You've seen me. What I've generously put up on display, that is. There is still so very much to be had, however, your gratitude is appreciated.”
