Akashi sneaked out of his large mansion of a house, red eyes wary as he did so. He hid from maids and servants, glad for his short stature since it made him less noticeable. When he reached the bottom floor, he was able to crawl through an open window and he immediately began to run away.
Snow was lazily falling, landing in his crimson hair as he trudged through the thick snow. White puffs left his mouth as he tightened the scarf around his neck and adjusted his jacket.
He wasn't supposed to be out, he was supposed to be studying, but Akashi had promised his childhood friend that he would meet him in their favorite spot that only the two of them knew. He would most likely get a scolding later, but he would much rather see his friend.
Kuroko waited in a small secluded area that was well hidden thanks to the pine trees and snow all around. Wearing his own big coat and scarf, along with gloves, he idly played in the snow as he waited for his friend.
He didn't ask his parents if he could go out, not wanting to risk being told no. He wasn't always sneaking away, but this was one of the rare times he did. He just liked being with his friend, who was named Akashi. They had lots of fun together, playing around or just talking.
"Tetsuya!" Akashi panted as he ran to Kuroko, a smile on his face and cheeks red from the cold. "Sorry, I had to sneak out of the mansion. My parents want me to learn Spanish of all languages."
Kuroko turned his head, looking at Akashi. He then tilted his head, smiling a little. "It's okay, I was just making some snowballs." He said, before standing up, brushing snow off his pants. "Spanish..? I don't see the point."
"Me either. I think they're running out of languages to get me to learn." Akashi said with a shake of his head.
Kuroko shrugged, still smiling. "So, what do you want to do today, Akashi-kun?" He asked as he leaned down, scooping up some snow before forming it into a ball.
"I heard that a new rental shop opened up by the mountain but I haven't had the time to check it out." Akashi said as he watched. "We should go together."
Kuroko tilted his head, before looking in the direction of where the mountain was. "Really? Should we go now?" He asked, then threw the snowball at a tree for fun.
"Yeah." Akashi said with a small smile as they began to trudge away. They lived right near the mount so it didn't take them all too long to get there. The area they lived in was famous for snowboarding and skiing as well so there were many people bustling about.
Kuroko followed Akashi, staying close. He looked around as they walked, but once they arrived at the shop, he started at it. "Wow... so I'm guessing there are some boards in there?" He had seen snowboarders before since he looked out his room window a lot. He watched the people slide down with ease, sometimes falling, but mostly nailing the tricks they do.
"Looks so cool." Akashi murmured as he looked at all the boards, his eyes falling on a cool black snowboard, a small pout on his lips. "I wish we could try that one..."
Kuroko looked at the black one as well once Akashi pointed it out. "Wow..." He mumbled, before looking at Akashi. "..Why can't we? Can't we use one too?"
"I think we need money to rent it out and parental supervision." Akashi said with a small sigh.
Kuroko frowned a little, looking back at the board. Where were they going to get money? Unless their parents didn't mind, which he doubted, they wouldn't get either. "...Can't we just use it real quick?"
"Well...with your lack of presence, you can probably take it without anyone noticing. We could just return it once we're done." Akashi suggested.
Kuroko smiled, nodding. "Exactly. No one will know." He said, before looking inside. "...Do you want me to get the black one?"
"Yes, I like that one a lot." Akashi replied, his eyes lighting up happily. It was only with Kuroko that he showed this sort of side. With anyone else he had to be stoic, emotionless, but with Kuroko he could be his true self.
Kuroko smiled again, nodding. He then dropped the smile, before slowly walking in the new store. It caught the attention of the person behind the counter, but all they saw was the door open. They must've thought it was the wind, since they went over and closed it when Kuroko moved away.
As quietly as he could, he began to talk the black snowboard down, trying not to make a noise. Once he got it, he ran out the door, startling the owner once again. He quickly went back to Akashi, holding the board closely. "I got it."
"Awesome! Thank you Tetsuya." Akashi murmured with another smile as he stared at the board in appreciation. "Let's go find a bunny hill to try this!"
Kuroko smiled, liking that Akashi was happy. "Okay, let's go find one." He said, holding the board under one arm, and gently took Akashi's hand with his other. He then began walking around until he found a decent, small hill. "Is this okay?"
"Yeah." Akashi said, glad no other kids were around to disturb them. He squeezed Kuroko's hand before letting go and looking at the board. "Do you want to go first or should I?"
Kuroko tilted his head, looking at the board. He then handed it over to Akashi. "You go first, you suggested coming out here today, so you can go."
"OKay." Akashi said as he took the board and slid the buckles over his shoes which thankfully fit. Once the board was secure on his feet, he looked down the hill and took a deep breath. They had both grown up with watch people skiing and boarding, so they had some idea of what to do.
So he slid the board down the hill and gasped as he went down it rather clumsily. He didn't fall, not right away, and he couldn't help but smile at the exhilarating feeling of going down the hill. It was when he reached the bottom that he fell down on his face.
Kuroko stayed at the top of the hill, watching Akashi from there. He smiled slightly when he saw Akashi fall, but he hoped he was alright. "Are you okay Akashi-kun?" He asked from the top of the hill.
"Yeah!" Akashi said as he slowly pushed his body back up to his feet. The smile he showed to Kuroko bordered a grin which was rare, even with Kuroko. "Wait until you try it! It's so fun!"
Kuroko couldn't help but return with his own big smile, seeing Akashi's grin. "Okay, well bring the board up! I'm not walking down just to walk back up!"
"Alright." Akashi said with a chuckle as he unbuckled his board and began to trudge back up. He couldn't wait for Kuroko to try it, he just knew that he would like it as well.
Kuroko watched him, still smiling. Once Akashi got to the top, he gently took the board. "What was it like?" He asked, as he began buckling up his feet. He had to adjust it slightly to fit him, since he was smaller sized then Akashi.
"I can't tell you. There's no words to do it justice." Akashi said as he watched Kuroko, his eyes wide in excitement.
Kuroko blinked in surprise, before smiling. "I see. I guess I will have to try." He said, before looking down the hill. He took a few deep breathes, before he moved and slid down the hill quickly. He tried standing on the board like he saw other people do, and he wasn't sure if he was doing it right.
He felt the cold wind in his face, but it was relaxing yet exciting. He could actually feel a bit of excitement and adrenaline, but soon he made it to the bottom. He didn't know how to stop, so he purposefully fell down like Akashi did.
Akashi chuckled when he saw Kuroko fall, making note that they would both have to learn how to properly transition from hill to flat ground.
"So, so?" Akashi asked, hoping Kuroko had liked it just as much as him.
Kuroko sat up in the snow, smiling brightly even though his hair was wild thanks to the wind. It was almost like his bed head. "It was great!"
Akashi grinned again, his eyes lit up in delight as he slid down the hill with his shoes.
"I knew you would like it." Akashi said excitedly as he helped Kuroko to his feet. "We should do this more often."
Kuroko thanked him, standing up. "We should. Let's ask our parents if we can start sledding or something. Ask them for lessons. Maybe? Let's just tell them we watched the others, they'll believe it."
"Maybe." Akashi said thoughtfully. "But...I don't think my parents would allow me to do such a frivolous activity..."
Kuroko hummed, holding the board as he thought. "...Is there any tournaments or something? You should be able to convince them somehow!.."
"Well, I did hear that my grandpa was a famous snowboarder. They might allow me to snowboard if I tell them I aspire to be like him since it would mean I'd go into competitions..." Akashi murmured thoughtfully.
Kuroko smiled a little, nodding. "Okay, and I'm sure my parents will let me... hopefully. So, let's hope that we both get lessons, okay?"
"Okay...Well, I should head back before they notice I'm missing. I'll ask them tonight okay?" Akashi said.
Kuroko nodded, almost sadly. He wished they had more time to play and snowboard. "Okay... I'll go take this back now, while you go home. See you tomorrow?"
"Yes." Akashi said as he grabbed Kuroko's hand and squeezed it. He gave Kuroko a small little sad look before he turned away and hurried off. As he ran, his face grew more thoughtfully, wondering if his parents would really agree.
Kuroko watched after him, before heading to the rental store. He was wondering the same thing, wondering if they would both get snowboarding lessons. As he returned the board carefully, he decided he would beg his parents if he had to. He wanted to snowboard with Akashi.
That night, Akashi sat down with his parents, the room silent save for the sound of silver forks touching expensive plates. Akashi sighed a little to himself, eyes wary before he cleared his throat to garner his parent's attention.
He proposed that he wanted to take snowboarding lessons and his father immediately rejected the idea, wanting him to study. However, his mother came to Akashi's rescue.
With a kind smile, she managed to convince his father to let him have snowboarding lessons. Akashi couldn't help but smile, unable to wait until he told Kuroko.
Kuroko was almost in the same situation, but more awkward, because he didn't know how to start. He started by asking if he could learn snowboarding. He was asked why by both his parents, but he said he simply saw them. It was believable, he had a good view of the mountain.
After some convincing, he finally got them to agree. He was completely happy and excited, hoping Akashi could snowboard too. They both could finally learn.
The next day, Akashi rushed over to their spot, excitement in his eyes. He was overjoyed that he would be able to learn how to snowboard and he could only hope Kuroko had been able to convince his parents as well.
Kuroko was a little late, thanks to his parents, and he finally ran over to their spot. "Akashi-kun!" He waved excitedly as he ran. He panted once he stopped, but still smiled. "I'm going to get lessons."
"Same! My father had refused but mom managed to convince him!" Akashi said with an excited smile. "I did research and lessons begin tomorrow! We were just on time to be able to join!"
Kuroko looked in surprise, before smiling again. He then moved closer, hugging Akashi tightly. He knew he was probably the only person that would be able to hug the redhead without being glared at. "We are going to learn to snowboard!"
Akashi hugged Kuroko back happily, enjoying the contact he so rarely received but relished every time. He chuckled happily, his arms tightening around Kuroko.
"I can't wait!" Akashi said excitedly.
Kuroko held onto him tightly, nodding his head. "I guess we don't need to borrow snowboards anymore then.." He said a little playfully.
"Yeah although I'm going to try getting it. I really like it and I'll always remember how you stole it for us." Akashi replied as he rested his head against Kuroko's shoulder.
Kuroko chuckled a little, shaking his head. "I didn't steal it! We 'borrowed' it okay? I put it back anyway.." He said with a fake pout.
"I still want it. A symbol of when we first started snowboarding." Akashi said with a small smile.
Kuroko nodded, understanding what Akashi was saying. "Okay. Let's save up money, and perhaps buy it off the owner?"
"Alright." Akashi said with a nod as he let Kuroko go and flopped down in the snow he loved so much, watching as it fell from the sky.
Kuroko watched him, before laying down next to him. He loved the cold of the snow, one reason why he loved it as well. "I can't believe it. We will finally snowboard together.."
"Yeah." Akashi said with a small smile as he shifted his body closer to Kuroko's.
Kuroko tilted his head, before moving closer, their sides pressing together. He liked the warmth it provided, since it was cold out. "I can't wait."
"Same." Akashi said as he lightly curled his body against Kuroko's. He always craved contact from Kuroko, continuously finding ways to touch him like he was now.
Kuroko smiled, staying close to him for the warmth. "What do you think it will be like? To actually learn to snowboard?"
"I think it will be fun, especially since we're together." Akashi said with a chuckle.
"Of course. Always." Kuroko said, before closing his eyes to relax. He couldn't wait to learn snowboarding with Akashi.
The next day was full of excitement as they met up on the mountain where class would take place. There were other kids their age there along with a teacher who seemed nice and patient.
Kuroko had stayed close to Akashi, since he didn't really know anyone else. Though he was excited and patient, waiting to learn. "We are going to learn Akashi-kun..!" He whispered excitedly.
"Yes." Akashi said, a little colder since he was around other people, knowing he had to keep up appearances. Though, his eyes still lit up excitedly but only Kuroko would be able to pick up on that.
Kuroko smiled at him, before dropping the smile in case anyone saw. "Think we will ever snowboard down the mountain?"
"I hope so." Akashi murmured as they were given their boards. Soon the instructor started teaching them how to board, demonstrating for them as well. It seemed pretty easy and Akashi managed to do everything the instructor showed them with ease.
Kuroko took a moment to understand some of the instructions, but since he was patient and listened, he soon got it. He stayed close by Akashi whenever he could, not trusting anyone else enough yet to approach them. Not that he wanted to. Snowboarding, even if it was just learning, was more fun with Akashi.
Over the course of a few days, near a week, they all learned how to snowboard. They mostly used the bunny hills but soon, some graduated to the intermediate hills.
Then, one day the instructor brought them to a huge hill full of obstacles and jumps made for experienced snowboarders. Akashi stood on his board, one of his feet buckled in since they had used their boards to get to the hill.
"Sugoi..." Akashi murmured under his breath.
Kuroko stood beside Akashi, looking at the hill as well. "It's... big. More exciting huh?" He asked, looking at Akashi.
"Yeah..." Akashi said as he stared at the hill. He was so entranced, he didn't noticed someone sliding near him, their board out of control.
Akashi gasped in slight panic when he was pushed off onto the hill, his free leg flaying slightly before he slammed it onto the board. He swiftly leaned over and buckled his foot in before he let his instincts take over.
He glided down the hill, managing to even go over a few jumps and land smoothly, a large smile curling his lips as his eyes went wide.
Kuroko looked in surprise, about to call out Akashi's name. Though he noticed he was doing great, and didn't fall once! He watched him in complete awe, as the whole class was.
Akashi finally made it to the bottom, huffing and panting but full of pride as he looked up the huge hill, barely able to even see everyone. He would have to take a lift to go back up the hill but it had been worth it.
Kuroko could see Akashi at the bottom, even though he looked like a red speck in the snow. Though he smiled a little, completely proud of Akashi. With just a few days of lessons, he had completed an obstacle course on a way bigger hill!
He went to where the lifts came in, as did the counselor, to wait for Akashi.
Akashi immediately walked over to Kuroko once he got off the lift, his face gleaming with pride.
"That was so fun!" Akashi murmured excitedly before turning to the instructor.
"That was amazing Seijuuro!" The instructor said, eyes wide. "That hill is made for experts...I can't believe you managed to complete it. I'm going to tell your parents, I'm sure they'll be proud."
Kuroko watched them, wanting to wait until they were alone to talk. He then turned back to Akashi, smiling brightly. "I'm proud of you too. That was amazing! You didn't fall once!"
"I can't wait until you try it Tetsuya!" Akashi said before he wiped his emotions off his face once the rest of the class came. There were lots of words of awe said to him but his only focus was on Kuroko.
Kuroko nodded, dropping his smile but it wasn't completely gone. "I hope to try it soon. I want to catch up to you. You have to teach me now..!" He whispered playfully.
"Of course." Akashi said with a small chuckle, his thoughts idly wandering to how his parents would take the news. Would they actually be proud of him?
Kuroko tilted his head, studying Akashi. "I wonder what will happen. News will probably spread fast. After all, it's not everyday you see someone as young as us complete an expert's course."
"I hope not much." Akashi said honestly, never actually liking attention even though he received much of it thanks to his last name. "It was probably a fluke anyway."
"Hmm, maybe.." Kuroko said with a shrug. "But I'm still proud of you. You looked really professional."
"Yeah?" Akashi said shyly, only caring about Kuroko's words. It was the only praise he ever cared about. "Do...Do you think my parents will be proud?"
Kuroko smiled a little, nodding. "If they aren't proud, then I don't know what could make them proud. You were amazing, and if they aren't proud, I still am."
"Thanks." Akashi murmured, feeling relieved at Kuroko's words. He smiled softly at Kuroko, his hand going to his to squeeze.
Kuroko returned the smile, gently squeezing Akashi's hand. "Let's hope they are proud."
Akashi nodded as they made their way home since class was now over. They eventually split and made their way to their separate homes. When he arrived at his house, his parents were waiting, already having heard the news.
To Akashi's surprise, they were actually proud of him, even his father. In celebration, they had his favorite meal and Akashi was actually happy and content. Although...There was a calculative look in his father's eyes that had him on edge but he forced himself to ignore it.
Kuroko was still proud of Akashi even as he got home. When they all ate for dinner, he had told his parents about what Akashi did today. They were surprised, but as expected, they were happy and proud as well.
A couple of weeks went by and Akashi excelled at snowboarding, showing natural talent. It would seem he inherited his grandfather's talent in the sport but there was only so much that could be taught to him.
Soon his parents weren't satisfied and wanted him to get better. One night, they told him that he would be shipped off to another country where he would be professionally coached.
Akashi argued as hard as he could, not wanting to leave his home, not wanting to leave Kuroko, but unfortunately they wouldn't budge.
Kuroko waited at their spot just like they planned at snowboarding practice. He noticed Akashi was getting so much better, while he was still learning a lot of things. He loved it, and he knew it would take time. Besides, it was fun playing with Akashi, and even more fun to snowboard with him.
Akashi slowly walked to their spot, unsure how to tell Kuroko that he was moving away for an undetermined amount of time. It was with a heavy heart and slightly teary eyes that he entered the spot.
Kuroko heard Akashi walk over, and he looked at him. He blinked in surprise at the watery eyes, and immediately stood up. He walked over, face full of concern. "Akashi-kun? What happened? Is everything okay?"
Akashi made a small agonized sound before he hugged Kuroko tightly, burying his head into his shoulder.
"We're moving to another country." Akashi said as his body shuddered.
Kuroko stiffened in surprise, not by the hug, but by his words. Once he got his senses back, he hugged Akashi back just as tightly. "What? You can't leave! Why are you leaving so suddenly?"
"They want me to become a professional like my grandpa and they aren't pleased with the instructors here. They found someone better but he's in a different country." Akashi said.
Kuroko frowned, holding Akashi close in the hug. "You can't leave... who will I talk to here? Who will be my friend?" He asked, sniffling a little. He really didn't want Akashi to leave.
"I don't know...But I have no choice. I even argued with my father but he won't budge. I can't stay." Akashi sobbed into Kuroko's shoulder. "I don't want to leave either!"
Kuroko closed his eyes, not wanting any tears to escape. Was there a way to convince them otherwise? "..Let's run away or something." He suggested with a shaky voice. "Then we will be together.. I don't want to be separated like this!"
"You can't leave your family!" Akashi said before taking a deep breath. "I'll come back someday, I promise. We'll both get really good and then we'll come back okay?"
Kuroko frowned again, looking at Akashi. "But... I want to get better with you. I don't want you to leave.. I know it's selfish, because you can get better if you go, but I don't want to be apart."
"I don't either but I have no choice Tetsuya...I can't disobey my father..." Akashi whispered softly as he looked away. "I promise, we'll meet again...And then we'll snowboard together again okay?"
Kuroko looked at him, before nodding. "Okay... and I promise that we'll get better, that I'll get better. We will meet again and snowboard. Maybe even snowboard down the mountain here." He said, trying to brighten up.
"Yeah." Akashi said with a shaky smile. He took a deep breath and hugged Kuroko tightly again. "I leave in a couple of days..."
Kuroko hugged him back, closing his eyes again. "Let's meet up everyday until then, okay?"
"I'll try. Luckily I don't have to pack since the miads are being paid to." Akashi murmured with a small sigh, not letting go of Kuroko at all.
Kuroko didn't let go either anyway. "Okay.. well, let's have fun until you leave.."
Akashi nodded softly but his heart still felt heavy. He didn't know when he would be able to return to Kuroko, all he knew was that he was to be a professional and compete.
Kuroko pulled away slightly, but only so he could look Akashi in the eyes, and hold his hands, even if they wore gloves. "We will see each other again, okay? When we become better. Next time we meet, it will be on the highest mountain ever, so we can snowboard together."
"Alright." Akashi said with a small smile, squeezing Kuroko's hands tightly. "I promise."
A few days had passed, and Kuroko and Akashi had spent the days together, having fun. Kuroko was still so upset by the fact that Akashi was leaving. He didn't want him to, but they had no choice. Finally the day came, the one Akashi warned him about, and even though he knew Akashi was now gone, he sat at their spot and played with the snow half heartedly.
Akashi was finally gone, and they wouldn't meet again for a long time.
7 years later.
Akashi tapped his fingers against his leg, eyes staring out the window as the car drove him back to the home he hadn't been to in years. Memories filled him but it only hurt him like needles so he pushed them back.
He wouldn't even be here if it weren't for an important competition that he had to attend to. He sighed to himself as he glanced at his father who was staring ahead with cold eyes, no doubt being filled with painful memories as well, not that he showed it though.
"I will stay for the competition but then I must leave. Business to attend to." His father stated coldly and Akashi merely nodded, not bothering to reply.
Kuroko waited at the top of a large hill, sitting in the snow alone. The competition he was supposed to go to started in about an hour, so he had plenty of time to relax before heading over. It was to be held on one of the shortest mountains in the town, rather then the large ones that were all around.
Over the years he stayed there, training to snowboard without Akashi. He still remembered Akashi, and he still remembered their promise. He still wished that they could have trained together.
His parents had gotten him a trainer thanks to their friend, and they taught him over the years. There was still some things to learn, but he was definitely better then before.
Realizing the time went by quickly, he began heading over to the competition.
Akashi sighed to himself as he saw everyone, his eyes studying them carefully. Nobody particularly stood out to him, making him shake his head. He turned his attention back to tending to his snowboard while his coach, who had come later after he had arrived, went through the usual speech.
Perfection.
That's all it bordered down to. Doing each jump with precision, doing each spin flawlessly and never failing. Akashi sighed to himself once more as he nodded, standing up with his board.
"I understand." Akashi replied emotionless.
Kuroko soon made it to the competition area, sighing to himself. He always doubted he would win, but that didn't matter. He did it for fun, but sometimes, snow boarding alone wasn't so fun.
As he looked around, holding his own board that reminded him of snow, and noticed the blood red hair. Was that who he thought it was? He hesitantly walked over. "Akashi-kun?"
Akashi twitched when he heard his name and he turned to that person, blinking when he saw familiar blue locks. His eyes locked onto cerulean eyes and he hesitated slightly, a burst of emotions going through his chest before he forced it down.
"Tetsuya." Akashi replied without emotion, his coach looking back and forth between them.
Kuroko was surprised by the tone Akashi used, but showed no emotion himself. Akashi said his name, so he must remember him, but... why did he reply like that? "..It's good to see you back."
"It's good to see you're well." Akashi said politely. "Are you entering the competition?"
"Yes, I am. I guess that's why you're here." Kuroko said, then hesitated, looking like he wanted to say something. "..Are you.. just visiting?"
"For a time. There's another competition next month as well so I'm going to stay here until then." Akashi replied, glancing at his coach who nodded in confirmation.
Kuroko was a bit glad, hearing that Akashi would be staying for the whole month. He was still confused by his.. emotionless behavior, but perhaps he was just awkward after coming home from so long. "I see. Well, I'm really glad you came back. I really missed you." He said, uncaring if Akashi's coach heard.
"It's good to see you again." Akashi said before turning to speakers overhead that was announcing the beginning of the competition, asking for all the competitors to gather at the mountain. "Good luck at the competition."
Akashi turned to leave, only pausing when his coach put a hand on his shoulder. Their eyes connected, a silent demand for Akashi to not bring shame in which Akashi replied with a nod.
Kuroko listened, but he was staring at Akashi. There was something different about him, he knew it. He seemed more... closed? He shook his head. No, this was Akashi, his best and only friend. Surely that hadn't changed. So with the other competitors, he headed to the mountain to begin the competition.
Akashi waited with the other competitors, watching in complete boredom as one by one people went down the hill, jumping off jumps and showing off the skills they had.
He remembered how once upon a time it used to send a thrill through him but now...It made him feel empty. No, snowboarding in general made him feel empty.
It was one of the reasons he had hoped that he wouldn't run into Kuroko, he didn't want to be reminded of the naive time he used to love snowboarding.
"Tsk. Just get this over with." Akashi murmured to himself.
Kuroko watched everyone, as he got everything set up. He made sure his white and light blue board that looked like it had snowflakes on it, was safe and the buckles were usable. He had his snow hat that would keep snow out of his hair, and keep him warm. Also his goggle made for snowy areas, which was something most snowboarders used.
Once he heard his name, he felt excited as he always had. He got to the line where they would start, and he buckled his feet up to his snowboard. With his hat and goggles on, he immediately pushed himself to begin.
Unlike Akashi, he still loved snowboarding and the snow. He didn't mind if he fell in the snow, he would always just relish the cold feeling. His jumps and spins weren't perfect, but they were great, spontaneous. It was good enough to have an expert compliment it.
He was always disappointed whenever he made it to the bottom, knowing it was over. With that, he began using the lift to go back up like the other competitors.
Akashi had watched Kuroko and he could tell that Kuroko still had his passion for the sport and the cold of the snow. He was unrefined, he needed better training but he was still considerably good.
The speakers turned on, announcing his name, or rather his nickname he had garnered from winning competitions: The emperor. He hadn't chosen the name but it seemed to have stuck.
Akashi slipped on a snow hat and placed his goggles on before he made his way to the hill. He buckled into his board and waited for the go ahead before he slid down the hill.
His snowboard guided beautifully, making nice concise lines into the snow. He flew off jumps, doing flips and spins and sticking them perfectly. It was...a perfect run but he felt no pride when he reached the bottom.
Just another run done.
Kuroko had watched Akashi from the lift, and he was amazed. Akashi had.. gotten so much better then he was before. A lot better. It was like he was already a professional. He got to the top again, and waited by the lift, wanting to talk to Akashi again.
"Do I really have to go back?" Akashi muttered under his breath, shaking the snow off his hat. He sighed a little as he slowly made his way to the lift, not really wanting to waste time watching everyone else go.
Kuroko kept the goggles around his neck, but he had taken off his hat as he waited. He was brushing the snow off when he saw Akashi finally arrived. Seeing no one else around, he smiled and approached him but gave him some space. "You were great, Akashi-kun."
"Thanks, you did good as well." Akashi replied amiably as he took off his goggles and snow hot. He brushed off the snow from his clothes and turned to Kuroko, the memories of before still haunting him whenever he looked into those sky colored eyes.
"Thank you." He said, still smiling. "You have gotten a lot better, it's almost amazing. And I'm really glad that you are back."
"You're welcome and it's good to know all that training paid off." Akashi replied as he eyed Kuroko a little, studying him and seeing how he had changed over the years.
Kuroko looked at Akashi as well, tilting his head. Akashi was still a little taller then him, but he still had that attractive face, which was a childhood joke of theirs. Though Kuroko still thought he was attractive of course.
"..If you want, after this competition, we could catch up on the years that passed? I'm sure you have lots of stories to tell." Kuroko suggested, really happy that Akashi was back.
"I don't think that's a good idea." Akashi said, finding it hard enough even being this close to Kuroko. Too many memories and emotions that he tried his best to bury. Kuroko seemed to be the same person but Akashi was no longer the one he knew. "My apologies Tetsuya, I have things to attend to after. I must be going now."
Akashi began to walk away, intending to go to his coach who would probably have a list of things that he did wrong.
Kuroko looked after Akashi, a bit surprised. Akashi usually always made time for him, but since he just returned, he guessed he was busy. "..Okay. Let's meet up one day." He called after Akashi, seeing him reach his coach.
Seeing Akashi wouldn't come back, he turned away, frowning to himself. He would need to be patient. Surely they would hang out again before Akashi left again. Shaking his head, he went over to where the finished competitors sat, and he stayed away from them, but close enough to hear the announcements.
Akashi was right when he assumed that his coach had a few things to say. Apparently one of his spins was off and a landing wasn't as smooth as it should have been.
Akashi sighed to himself, waiting for the competitors to finish. Unsurprisingly, he won the competition although he felt no joy. It was just a matter of meeting expectations. He accepted the reward with a fake smile before he promptly left the mountain, making his way to another one that he hoped was still secluded.
Kuroko wasn't surprised Akashi won, knowing that he got so much better. He wanted to meet him afterwards to at least congratulate him, but he didn't see him anywhere. With a sigh, he went with his parents who had been watching. Though as they walked, he saw the familiar red hair.
He told his parents that he forgot his snow hat, which was really in his pocket. They nodded and told him they would meet him at home. Once they were out of view, he began to quietly follow Akashi while holding his board.
Thankfully the mountain he had chosen was still secluded as ever, nobody going down it. It was a hard mountain as well, only for the experienced so he supposed that could be another reason why no one was there.
Akashi sighed softly as he looked down the hill before slid down it, trying to practice the spin so it was perfect to make it up for messing it up earlier.
Kuroko watched Akashi from afar, not wanting him to realize he was watching. He thought Akashi said he had things to do afterwards. If he was training, couldn't they train together? Like old times? Frowning, he trudged up the hill, and sat down in the snow and waited for Akashi.
Akashi sighed once he reached the bottom of the hill, running a hand through his hair. He had done it perfectly as usual...Although it begged the question as to why he hadn't earlier.
"This place...It's throwing me off." Akashi muttered to himself, face full of frustration.
Kuroko tilted his head, seeing Akashi stop as if he was thinking. Humming, he stood and began to slide down the hill on his board. His feet weren't buckled in, but he did this before and he wasn't doing any jumps anyway. Once he made it to the bottom, he was sure he got Akashi's attention now. "You have things to do, huh?"
"Tetsuya." Akashi greeted, wiping the emotions off his face as he turned to Kuroko.
"Is this training?" Kuroko asked, picking up his board. He studied Akashi, refraining from narrowing his eyes.
"I just wanted to see something." Akashi replied shortly, not looking Kuroko in the eyes.
"Well, what are you doing afterwards? You said you had things to do." Kuroko said, a bit of edge in his voice. He had missed Akashi, and he would understand if he was tired or something after returning, but if he was just training like this..
"I do." Akashi said shortly, his guard up as he sighed and ran a hand through his hair once again.
"Like what?" Kuroko asked, before shaking his head, calming himself. "Are you tired or something? If so, you shouldn't be out training for jumps." He said, much more soft then before.
"I'm fine. I just wanted to practice a spin." Akashi said with a small sigh. He didn't really know what to do or say anymore. A part of him wanted to go back to how things used to be but he was a different person now. He couldn't just go back.
"...Is something wrong, Akashi-kun? You seem distant. Different." Kuroko said quietly, not sure if there actually was something wrong with Akashi.
"I am different Tetsuya. I'm not the same person you knew before." Akashi said as he turned to Kuroko. "The kid that you knew is gone and it's best to just forget about him."
Kuroko stared in surprise, confused by Akashi's words. This was Akashi in front of him... What happened to him? "What happened?" He asked, repeating what had been in his mind. "..What do you mean the kid I knew is gone? You are him.."
"Yes and no." Akashi said with a shake of his head. "You're just the same as you were back then but I'm not."
Kuroko knew Akashi had acted different, but he refused to believe it. "..No. You are still Akashi-kun.. Don't you remember everything we did together? If I'm the same.. then you.. should be too.." He had no idea how to continue. He just didn't want to believe it.
"I barely remember anything, it was so long ago." Akashi said. "I don't...Even like snowboarding anymore. The snow, gliding down the mountain...I despise it."
Kuroko's widened without him wanting to. Akashi.. hated snowboarding? He hated the snow? What happened to him... "..You're right. You aren't the Akashi-kun I know.." He said, still in slight shock. "..So I'll just have to get you to remember everything, and love snowboarding again."
Akashi blinked at Kuroko, surprised at his statement, before he softly chuckled.
"Yeah, you haven't changed a bit, Tetsuya. Don't waste your time though, you can't do anything about it." Akashi picked up his board. "I need to get going, I'll see you around."
Kuroko watched him, narrowing his eyes. Not in anger, but determination. He stood in front Akashi so he couldn't walk away just yet. "If it's to bring Akashi-kun back, then it won't be wasting my time. I'll make you remember so you aren't hating this sport anymore, the sport you used to love as much as I do."
"What's it matter if I like it or not? It's enough to be good at it." Akashi said with a shrug. "Doing everything with perfection...It's enough. There's no room to like it."
"I'm not sure about you, but if I worked to do something perfectly without even liking it, then I would go insane. I do my best because I love this sport. I love snowboarding. I love the snow. I try my hardest, and I'm glad for every successful move I make." Kuroko said, frowning.
"To do something right in the thing you love is a much better feeling then being perfect in something you hate." He continued, before moving to the side. "I will get you to remember, and that's a promise."
"If you insist." Akashi said, obviously humoring Kuroko with a small shake of his head. He would only be here for a month and then he would be shipped off to the next competition where he would make his way to regional.
Kuroko's words were tantalizing but pure naivety at the same time, something he couldn't agree with.
Kuroko frowned, but didn't continue on. He just stayed to the side, sighing. "Don't doubt it. I will make you remember, and bring the old Akashi-kun back."
"A useless endeavor but so long as it doesn't get in the way of my practice." Akashi replied with a small sigh as he walked off, board on hand. He'd choose another mountain tomorrow where Kuroko wouldn't be able to find him.
Kuroko wanted to desperately make him remember so he wasn't this imposter anymore, but he stayed calm. He made a promise that he would bring the old Akashi back, and he would do it before the month ended. With that, he began to walk home as well, wondering how he would get Akashi to remember.
Akashi entered the mansion hesitantly, noting how many of the pictures were missing. The only pictures that remained now were of him or his father and it sent an empty feeling through him.
He sighed to himself as he went to his room that was bare of most of his things. He walked over to the corner where a black board rested and he studied it before sighing.
"Foolish." He muttered to himself.
Kuroko went to his room immediately as soon as he got home. He didn't understand what had happened.
Akashi used to love the snow and snowboarding just as much as he did. They were so kind to each other and did everything together. Why didn't Akashi remember?
That's why he had to make him remember, and he was determined to complete his goal. He would get the real Akashi back one way or another.