How does this mesh with the extra chapter about how the two hero-companions were in love? Or is it just the one who's pov we saw that is, and it's casual to the other?
Est and Jill were in love in the past life, but it looks like it didn't translate to this one.
I guess the point is: just because Alusha and Mao were in love both before and after reincarnation, it doesn't mean every pairing will survive death.
It sounds like Rinka fell in love with Taou in her early childhood this time around, before any of this business started.
Out of all 6 characters, Taou is the one who can't let go of her past even remotely and also the one who shows no romantic interest.
I think Rinka's chances of winning her over are rather slim.