Of course he had to mention that; it was the last notable interaction they had (magical girl clothes aside). It’s the only thing Amakusa could consider a tease to break the waters, after months apart. Naturally it goes awry, as it always does. Next came a bombardment of questions and inquires, all aimed at inane things like his heath or hygiene. It was like having a mother again, of all things.
“Ah… Martha. Martha, that’s not necessary.” He felt that poke like an iron jab. “Yes, I’ve been eating well, you needn’t worry about that. If it’s cold, I hadn’t noticed. My robes are fine, last I checked. I understand it’s been some time, but really, I’m fine.” There was the idea to repeat it, in hopes it’d sink in faster. Anything to move the conversation away from him. The intense focus wasn’t unnerving, but felt needless. There were more important things, and people, to worry about.
With that in mind, he still allowed her to fuss. “Thank you, though. I do appreciate the concern.” Even if it was too much for him. “But, enough about me. Have you been well since your arrival here? Are things going well? If you need any assistance, I am more than happy to help. Now that I’ve completed setting up the church, I have more time for excursions into the other Wards.”
At last, Martha pries fussing hands off the poor boy, forcing herself away with a step back. He was truly a champ to allow her this simple expression of concern and fondness for as long as she needed. Even as Saints now, they were still only human. Skinship, relationships and the like were still relevant under the scrutiny of their commitment to God.
“Oh, yes. Yes, everything has been just fine. There are always people in need of a helping hand, of course...” Turning her head, Martha allows herself to really take in their surroundings, now that Amakusa’s memories and well-being were secured in her mind. An almost dreamy smile crosses her lips.
“This is all yours? It’s wonderful, Shirou. My heart is swelling! And in such a short time, too! Truly amazing.” She can’t help but gush. Though their ages did not differ all that much, she could stop her natural instincts as an elder sibling figure, feeling pride and awe all at once. It was a bit strange. In a usual war these kinds of feelings would never come up, as they would be too busy attempting to take one another’s lives. Without a grail, without a contract, harmonious bonds were able to develop between two people, not agents of destruction. “Fufu... Ah, what could I have been worried about? Of course you’re more than capable of handling things. I’ll admit, I will miss the days we worked side by side... You are sincerely---- Ack-- that hair again, I swear by His grace...!” Yes, already, she’s back at it again.
