The Empire of Reimia (3)

Just like the day before, Linnea spots her training partner from yesterday in the park, but before she can greet him, she notices that he's not alone and is hastily trying to hide. Who knows, maybe it's the park that's having this effect on him, or maybe it's just becoming a habit? Ipheon was one of the tallest members of Class III, and being well-built, he created a noticeable contrast with the Nihonian woman he was talking to. It was clear that they knew each other well, but there was a sense of awkwardness and some tension in their conversation. "Iffi, have you found anyone among your classmates who interests you? I've noticed some very pretty and well-mannered girls." "No. You know very well that I didn't come to the academy for that." "I-I see..." The woman's voice betrayed a noticeable anxiety, as if she knew what her companion was going to say next. "There is only room for you in my heart." Ipheon said this without hesitation and as seriously as possible. Linnea had never seen her classmate so determined. "Iffi... I'm flattered, of course, but we've talked about this many times... We're mother and son, it can't be done..." "It can't be done only because of the despotic culture of our puritanical country. I don't care if it's 'right' or not, and I don't want either of us to be chained by society, like livestock. We can leave for a place where it won't be condemned... I'll work like hell, I'll work on myself, I... I'll do anything to make you happy." "P-please, finally understand, I'll be happy if you find your place in life and someone who loves you!" "My place in life is next to you!" The woman wanted to slap the guy, but at the last moment she stopped and instead ran away, tears in her eyes. Ipheon reached out to her, but only caught air. When she disappeared over the horizon, he slumped heavily onto a bench and grabbed his head with one hand, deep in thought.