#grace5

Bouquet of white chrysanthemums in hand, Kikuhito stood in front of the Memorial of the fallen. Some would say he had no right to be there, and he would be inclined to agree. His presence alone had no doubt contributed to some of the lives that were lost and listed on this very memorial. Flowers would never be able to repay the price of a life, but it was all he could do for now. For now, he reiterated in his mind, the journey of atonement is longer still.

Placing the flowers at the base of the Memorial, he turned to leave and was instead met with a face they --- both Kikuhito and War --- would rather not see. "Ava," Kikuhito curtly acknowledged her, knowing secondhand that pleasantries were a waste of breath. Having just confronted the consequences of his past actions perhaps gave Kikuhito the slight ounce of courage that he hadn't had when last met her, so he spoke up once more: "I must say this is rather unexpected. I didn't think you were one to feel for others, much less mourn them," he commented. Still wary of the other's presence, he then added, "...Though I suppose surprises are more your forte. Unfortunately, I'm not a fan of them, so tell me why you're here." Meanwhile, in the back of his mind, War silently considered his options.