Title: Hiken (秘鍵: (n) hidden mysteries; secret principle // 秘[secret])
Category: Hikaru no Go
Rating: K+
Pairing: N/A (if you squint really really really hard, HikaAki)
Summary: Akira isn't what people made him to be. Underneath that deceptively calm exterior, he is something more.
A/N: Written as a test to get more familiar with the fandom in preparation for a very big plot bunny to come. Also, changes of pace from everyday life are always welcome. Purposely vague/detached, feel free to ask questions.

Touya is a good liar.

With every moment he speaks, a lie is guaranteed to come out of his mouth; every action he does clearly an illusion.

It is as if his entire life is a lie, and that underneath that there is nothing; as if Touya Akira's existence is simply nothing but a mask of lies and deception to all who dare to approach him.

Yet Shindo knows there is something more.

– 一 –

Touya is a skilled manipulator.

With every breath he takes, he is manipulating the feelings of those around him; always getting what he wished simply with a string of words.

It is as if it's an integrated part of his life, and that he is used to what power he has over other people; as if Touya Akira's world revolves solely on gaining acceptance in that manner and the silence he can bring to himself.

Yet Shindo knows there is something more.

– 段 –

Touya is an empty shell.

With every glance he makes, his eyes are hollow and bleak; even with all the smiles and assurances he gave to those that showed concern.

It is as if nothing exists beneath those pools of jade, and possibly this is gathered from the expectations he grew up alongside; as if Touya Akira's true fire and determination would only be drawn from the depths when facing his true opponent, and never otherwise.

Yet Shindo knows there is something more.

– 落 –

Touya is nothing but the Go he plays.

Yet, Shindo knows – wisheswillsdemands-with-all-his-heartmindsoul; can't-stand-seeing-his-rivalcolleaguefriend-in-such-hurtpainmiserysorrow – that there is something more.

Note: 一段落 (ichi-dan-raku, ichidanraku: (n) a pause // 一[one]段[step]落[fall])