Retrospect + In the company of ghost
Fandom: Serei no Moribito
Pairing: undertones of TandaxBalsa
Rating: PG
Two times they didn't work out.
Retrospect
"I realized…that the passage of time changes many things, when my cute little brother suddenly grew into a man."
That was what she had said…and now?
Now she had underestimated time again.
Looking back at her conversation with Torogai in the hot springs at the emperor's court…she had ignored the old woman's warning then. Too lost in her grief over the loss of Chagum. The second prince that had over the course of their time spent together managed to sneak his way into her heart. He really had been like a son she never had.
So she had decided to leave for Kanbal. To lay Jiguro's soul to rest and to try easing her pain. It is said that time heals all wounds, after all.
And when she returned to Yogo, she felt as if she had finally relieved herself of all her 'baggage'. And she is overcome by a strange light-heartedness. That is, until she learns about Tanda…and meets the woman he married. The woman that is nothing like Balsa herself. She isn't strong, isn't able to live alone, doesn't stand up for herself. She didn't know Tanda all his life…but she doesn't have to.
She fell in love with Tanda while watching him steeping herbs for her grandfather. It was a good match, or so she had said herself. But now she hates herself for it…
There is a deep ache in her heart now. And ironically, this time he really is the only cure.