Athyra: Yet another long long chapter because I keep rambling DX It's all tabby's fault! Sorry for the delay so here it is, word blocks and Rin being all over the place XD; Hopefully readers can see everything she does here is justified. As always, please check out our tumblr website for artworks and thank you for reading this story! Any feedback is welcome!
ghikiJ: the long awaited chapter! So many feels going on in this one so I'm sure the wait would be worth it! Thanks for your continued support!
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Act IV: First Turn
Chapter 22 – Love and Peace
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"And we're here nya!"
Beaming, Rin opened her arms wide and twirled down the hallway in the inn. The group of four had arrived at Orihime, a small town known for its hot springs, sweet potatoes, and pickled vegtables. The weary travelers were eager to relax, especially the Kaguyans who were told numerous tales about the soothing power of steaming mountain spring waters.
"Whatever, anything to shut you up would be welcomed," Nico grumbled and dumped their belongings on the tatami, her wary red eyes scanning their suite for rats. Rin threw herself towards her beloved playmate in response.
"Nope, hot springs makes Rin very, very excited nya!"
"Hanayo, please take your cat off of me."
The princess pretended to protest but obediently allowed the smiling brunette to peel her person off of the disgruntled ninja. Purring loudly, she pecked Hanayo's cheek before bouncing towards their luggage. "Come on, let's strip and hop in already!"
"Your endless energy astounds me," Nico waved her hand in exasperation. Her gaze were trained around the upturned baggages and the mess Rin left behind. "You kids go ahead, I have actual work to do."
"I-I'll stay and help. Rin-chan, maybe you can show Maki-chan around?"
Hanayo's offer brought a small, affectionate smile on their guardian's usually sour face. "And this is why you're my favorite. Well then, get out of the room, I can't take any more of your hyper-dancing."
Rin paused in the middle of her exuberant stretches. "Rin wasn't dancing! Rin was preparing for the hot springs- ah! No fair, Nico-chan, Rin wants to be petted too!"
"You don't get any. Shoo."
Chartreuse eyes narrowed playfully as Nico spoke to Hanayo in patient tones. While she was slightly envious that she wasn't getting as much attention, she was mostly pleased how close the two were becoming. She loved the fact that their snappy bodyguard was so kind towards the brunette, because that was how the latter deserved to be treated.
Because, really, Rin could not recall any instance that Hanayo was able to converse like a normal girl with anyone. Back in Tenkatsu, the handmaiden was always occupied with chores expected of her station. Her interactions with fellow servants were always brief and to the point by necessity, as the nobles demanded them to be at their constant beck and call. Actions that were thought to be audacious were immediately beaten down. There was only so much Rin could do to intervene at the harsh court of Antares.
And to think, they would be back in that cage in less than two days.
Rin shook her head defiantly, refusing to think about the suffocating reality ahead and adamantly clinging to the dream-like present. She had yet to show the Kaguyans the wonders of this particular inn after all!
Out of the corner of her eyes, she noticed Maki leaving the suite briskly, perhaps going to the changing room near the hot springs. She hesitated briefly, debating whether to catch up to her friend or to go ahead with her plan. The redhead had been quiet, not that it was unusual, but she had a contemplative expression the whole time that made Rin worry if something was bothering her.
That won't do! Wait for Rin, Maki-chan! Rin just needs to take care of something first! The princess pumped her fist, reminiscent of her buddy Honoka, before dashing out of their suite and down the hallway in a different direction towards the kitchen.
The Atsume Inn was located in the outskirts of Orihime, run by an elderly couple that Rin was rather familiar with. Years ago, when her sister Hikari has yet to be ordered to go wed a foreign prince, the elder Hoshizora used to bring her and Hanayo here to get away from the stifling atmosphere of the capital. The quaint and peaceful place was just what they needed to relax, and Rin was relying upon this soothing atmosphere this time as well.
She missed Hikari dearly, as she was closest to her out of all her older sisters. Her training sessions with Nico reminded her of Hikari, but at the same time it felt different in a good way. Unlike the elder Hoshizora who pampered her sometimes, the ninja never held back and was always frank in her reprimands. She let Rin learn from experience before correcting any mistakes or give advice.
And Rin loved it! She found it so much easier to learn through action than concepts scribbled on paper, and the bodyguard's rare praises made her want to try even harder. For lunch earlier today, Nico even allowed her to hunt for a bigger game, and she was able to meet the older woman's standards with a successful catch. She suppressed the urge to scratch an itchy cut on her arm, slightly disappointed that the scab would not form into an awesome scar to be displayed proudly. She had voiced that thought earlier and was instantly chided by a peeved Maki and worried Hanayo.
Rin's bouncy steps gradually slowed to a melancholic stroll as the quiet rustling of her socks echoed in the empty hallway. The scent of sulfur that permeated the air lulled her into an odd trance, creating an otherworldly sensation that she was the only living person on this realm. She always wandered off on her own, but this was the first time that she became so aware of being by herself. Unsettled, she almost looked over her shoulder to see if her best friend was struggling to keep up, and felt guilty for even thinking of such a thing.
"P-p-p-please d-d-don't send me a-away."
The handmaiden's shaky words from days ago felt like a slug to her stomach even now. Perhaps Hanayo could sense the intangible plan forming in Rin's mind? She had always been too dependent on the brunette, but the selfish part of her refused to part from the latter either. The debate was still on-going within the princess' head, though the closer they approached Tenkatsu, the clearer the conclusion became.
Kayochin would be so much better off with Maki-chan and Nico-chan, and everyone in Kaguya.
The nausea returned full force, making her falter in her steps. The sudden rush of loneliness brought a familiar sting in her eyes, something she had not experienced since she left the capital for Kaguya. Automatically, she resumed sprinting down the hallway as if to shake off that horrid sense of vulnerability.
"Obaa-san! Four deluxe bowls of Secret Recipe Ramen for dinner please!"
Her abrupt arrival at the kitchen had the old lady jump in shock. She rubbed her head sheepishly, realizing how loud she must have been. Before she could apologize, the inn owner gave her an amiable smile.
"Ara, you're the guest who came in with the three horses earlier, correct? Fufu, what a lively girl you are… ne, jii-chan, did you hear ojou-chan's orders just now?"
"Aye, I heard 'er loud'n'clear, woman," the husband, who was also the chef, gave Rin a pleased grin. "Not a lot o' people know about the secret menu, ojou-chan. I'll have it up fer ya in a jiffy!"
Nostalgia filled her heart as the princess placed her hands behind her and rolled on her heels. The elderly couple remained as friendly as she remembered, though their ages really showed through their white hair and wizening wrinkles. How many years had it been since she last came here? "Ah, could you prepare them a bit later? We're planning to dip in the hot springs first. Best way to start the night after all nya~"
She almost winced at the slip-up, for the old lady squinted her eyes at her headwrap and nervous grin. She wondered if a few strands of her orange tresses poked out from under the cover. "Ojou-chan… are you-?"
"Ahaha, well, Rin will be back later for the ramen nya!"
She wanted to hit herself. It was difficult to keep her speech normal especially when she was depressed or uncertain, like now. The elderly couple, however, merely glanced at each other knowingly and sent her a fond expression. "Welcome back, hime-sama… no, ojou-chan! Please, enjoy your stay here. We're just glad to see you well. Extra bamboo stalks, one boiled egg and an extra bowl of rice for your friend, right?"
"Obaa-san, Ojii-san… arigatou nya!" Rin gave them a grateful bow before running down the corridor with lighter heart. In spite of all the awful memories she had of Antares, she still cherished precious people and moments like these. Her speed increased as joy slowly overtook the dread that threatened to overwhelm her earlier. The leash seemed to loosen around her neck the faster she moved, granting her a sense of invincibility and euphoria. When she spotted red hair just at the corner, her heart swelled even more and urged her to share this happiness with her friend.
"Maki-chan!"
The noblewoman jolted but pointedly ignored her as they entered the changing room together. The spacey chamber provided several screens so occupants could undress in private, so why didn't Maki go ahead with it? She should have arrived long before Rin yet here she was, still holding the folded towel and change of yukata within her arms as her eyes darted around skeptically.
"Hmm, did Maki-chan get lost nya? Or were you waiting for Rin?"
"N-No, of course not!"
The sight of her friend's reddened ears had her giggling. "Don't worry, Rin won't tell anyone nya~"
Violet eyes narrowed in indignation as Maki whirled around to glare at her. Their gazes met briefly, and the taller girl stiffened as that thoughtful expression appeared on her visage again. She swallowed and pursed her lips, as if she wanted to say something and looked really troubled in articulating what was on her mind.
"What's wrong, Maki-chan?"
"...Nothing."
Pouting, Rin stepped closer only to blink in surprise when her friend immediately backed away. She took another step but received the same response yet again. With her cheeks puffed up even more, she persisted until Maki's back hit the wall with a muffled thud.
"W-what?"
"Maki-chan, why is your face so red nya?" Really concerned now, she tiptoed and reached for the taller girl's forehead. Before her hand could come in contact, it was caught in a vice grip. The force startled her, causing a squeaky mewl to leave her mouth as she stumbled forward. The blush on the redhead's cheeks darkened at their resulting proximity, her violet eyes wide while her lips trembled rather helplessly.
Rin had to steady herself by placing her other hand beside Maki's head, still tip-toeing so she could take a proper look at the latter. Why was Maki frozen like this? She almost appeared frightened with her gaze unfocused. Rin desperately wanted to comfort her somehow, so she leaned in without a second thought.
Her lips felt just as soft and warm as the other two times they kissed, making the shorter girl smile as she closed her eyes and tilted her head for more intimate contact. Maki loosened her grip around Rin's wrist and lightly slid down her arm to rest on her shoulder, bringing goosebumps to the latter's skin. The princess felt butterflies flutter in her stomach, solely immersed in this pleasant heat between them. The burst of joy was indescribable but Rin knew that she wanted more. Her hands itched to feel more of Maki as her fingers slipped through those silky maroon tresses to cup the latter's cheek. Wanting to prolong this wonderful sensation, she experimentally moved her mouth against the taller girl's, grinning when she heard and felt a quiet sound rumbling in her partner's throat. Rin parted her lips then, for instincts beckoned her to lick and taste more of the beautiful redhead.
The world suddenly spun and she found herself on the floor. Her bums hurt from the fall as she blinked up at Maki in bewilderment.
"W-What d-did you think y-you were doing?" The heiress' voice was shrill in borderline panic as she gasped for breath and hugged her towel to her chest like a lifeline.
"E-Eh? Rin… Rin just wanted…" Even she was at a loss now. What did she want, exactly? Certainly, she wanted to cheer up her friend but that objective slightly shifted the more they kissed. Ever since Nico told her about Nozomi and special love, Rin only became more certain of her feelings for Maki day by day. It was confusing, sometimes so much that she had to act on instinct, otherwise she wouldn't know how to contain the torrent of emotions in her chest. Therefore, she replied with sheer honesty. "Rin just wanted to kiss you nya."
The redhead's breathing quickened in shock as her shoulders drooped and her expression relaxed. "Y-y-you…"
"Maki-chan enjoys it too, right?" Rin recalled how her pretty violet gaze had that dazed gleam whenever they kissed, and that enthralling sight always sent her to a restless spell, like she needed to do something else to bring more variety of expressions in those eyes.
"I don't!" Maki snarled hastily, her tone wild in frenzy. "J-Just because you wanted to k-kiss me doesn't mean you can just do it! What am I supposed to think about that? Imi wakan nai! I… I'm… it's giving me a lot of stress!"
Chartreuse eyes widened at how the redhead was acting, which was reminiscent of a cornered critter. Carefully, Rin stood up and gave her a faint smile. "Maki-chan, if you don't want Rin to do it again, please just tell Rin, ne?" She held up her hands in attempts to calm down the taller girl. "Rin won't do it again."
Not that Rin will have the chance to anyway. Tenkatsu is where we will part. The thought slipped traitorously into her mind, and it hurt her more than Maki's rejection. The curves to her lips flattened as she lowered her gaze to the tatami floor. "Gomen ne, Maki-chan, truly."
She entered the adjacent storage room without looking back, sliding the door shut before slowly dropping to her knees. She covered her face with a trembling hand and struggled to keep the fear at bay. Their fantastic journey was coming to an end, so perhaps it was better to end things this way. The pang in her heart grew, forcing her to bite her lips to suppress any whimper since that might trouble Maki further. She yanked the headwrap off of her hair and slapped her cheeks in determination.
No, not yet. The hot springs awaited her and her friends. She vowed to make their last stop before the capital as perfect as possible. There was still time to fix the mess between her and the redhead. She swiftly undressed and dumped her clothes into a wicker basket. After shoving the hamper onto the shelf, she sloppily wrapped a towel around herself before dashing back into the changing room.
"Come on, Maki-chan! Rin is going in first!" Unable to look at the heiress just yet, she ran past the motionless girl and headed for the screen door to paradise. The scent of sulfur became even sharper as a burst of steam greeted her. Her body shivered from the cold air as she scanned the modest area, fenced by bamboo walls and thick bushes. Without further ado, she skipped across the stone tiles and hopped into the searing water. She yowled involuntarily, though she welcomed the distraction as the heat burned away all her chaotic thoughts. Her spirits rose again as she hummed a chirpy childhood song and waited for her friends' arrival.
Soon enough, Nico joined her in the scalding pond with an especially fierce scowl.
"You, cat girl, what happened between you and Maki-chan earlier?"
Rin squirmed under those accusing red eyes. Guilt stabbed her chest as she mumbled weakly. "N-Nothing…"
"Rin!"
"H-hai!" She sat up straight upon the harsh call and peered nervously at the black-haired woman. Of course Nico would be protective of the physician. Based on the stories she's heard, the two Kaguyans had known each other almost just as long as Rin knew Hanayo. Her blood boiled in rage at the idea of someone doing the same to her best friend, which in turn intensified her guilt. The ninja had every right to be furious. Before she could stammer a weak apology, Nico let out a long, deep sigh.
"You know what… it's something the two of you need to work out. I don't want to get in the middle of this," Nico shrugged and readjusted the towel wrapped around her long hair, ensuring that it would not get wet, "I just might make it worse."
"N-Nico-chan isn't mad nya?"
"I am," she growled exasperatedly, "but I underestimated how dumb you are so it's technically my fault for telling you about Nozomi and me. Anyway, Hanayo is with her right now so it should be fine. If anyone can talk sense into Maki-chan, it's Hanayo."
Relieved and pleased at their guardian's vote of confidence in the brunette, Rin nudged the former with her elbow. "Nico-chan really likes Kayochin nya~"
"Of course. She doesn't give me a migraine as much as you two troublesome cats."
"Rin can really trust Nico-chan to take care of Kayochin then!"
The black-haired woman frowned at her earnest but somber voice. "What are you talking about?"
"Nothing~" Rin plastered a bright grin on her face as she scooted closer to the petite ninja. "Ooh, Nico-chan sure has some awesome scars!" Faint lines could be seen marring the older woman's fair skin below her collar bones, and there must be more hidden beneath the towel wrapped around her body. "Hmm, but so flat nya…"
"What did you just say?!" Bristling, Nico jabbed a finger at the princess' own lack of breasts. "You're in no position to say anything about me!"
"But Rin is younger… and Nozomi-chan, Kotori-chan, Honoka-chan and Eli-chan all felt so nice and soft nya~"
"What the- you groped them? Like that shameless miko?!"
"Of course not," Rin tilted her head innocently. "Rin only hugged them, but Rin is short so it can't be helped nya~"
"Wow, you're not as innocent as you look, damn brat-"
"Nya? What do you mean, Nico-chan? But uuuu, Rin didn't get to hug Umi-chan…"
"Hnnff! There's nothing on that one anyway-"
"Ah! Nico-chan's in no position to say that!"
"You little-!"
The tense atmosphere between them broke as they chased each other in the hot spring, splashing and yelling as they comically waddled through the scalding water. When the screening door slid open, Rin stilled and gingerly glanced at the silhouette obscured by the steam. Distracted, she couldn't avoid a splatter of water and choked from Nico's relentless assault.
"Serves you right, ill-mannered kid!"
"Why do I have be here to babysit children?" Maki's drawl was barely audible as she bashfully approached them. She continued to complain about the lack of personal space while Nico barked in the background, but Rin wasn't really listening. Curious eyes trailed over the redhead's almost-nude form, noting how the towel clung to her curves and emphasized those long, creamy legs. Beads of sweat were already forming on her enticing neck, which beckoned for the cat-like girl nuzzle and maybe do something more. Heat rushed to her face while her throat felt inexplicably parched as she licked her chapped lips.
Blinking, she stamped down on that horrible train of thoughts, frustrated by this unfamiliar but very compelling urge to touch Maki in any way possible. The redhead was still evidently upset with the way she ignored Rin and clutched at the hem of her towel. The princess tore her gaze away from Maki's thighs and spoke sheepishly. "Eh? Rin likes to have company in the hot springs, because it's livelier than way nya!"
Hearing no reply from the heiress, she turned her attention back to their guardian only to find a bemused stare.
"You two exasperate me."
"Nya?" "W-What?"
"Nevermind. Is Hanayo still changing?"
"Yes, she told me to go ahead," Maki's brows were furrowed and her arms folded as she purposely turned away from the two already in the water.
"Mou, Rin misses Kayochin already~"
Pouting, Rin draped her arms around Nico and rested her chin on the towel wrapped around the latter's head. The ninja snarled and tried to shake her off, making her giggle and hold on even tighter. Was that a challenge? Then she definitely won't lose! After a few minutes of splashing and thrashing, the small bodyguard huffed loudly and sank to her seat. The princess purred loudly in triumph before squeezing the older woman one more time. She knew that Nico could have easily thrown her off but instead tolerated their playful wrestling. She will really miss hanging out with her.
"Nico-chan daisuki nya~!"
"Hai, hai... I'm lovable, I know I know."
Rin simply grinned, inwardly agreeing though kept it to herself. No point to give up a valuable ammunition just yet!
Chartreuse eyes soon trailed back to the redhead before she knew it. Maki's cheeks were flushed prettily, probably because of the steam or she was still embarrassed about the lack of privacy. The heiress gingerly dipped her toe in the hotspring to test the temperature, only to yelp from the heat. She immediately glared at them as if daring them to tease her.
"Come on, Maki-chan, just jump in already… I don't want to hear you complaining about the cold again," Nico drawled and jabbed a finger at the water.
"I wasn't complaining. And I'm not cold."
"... Maki-chan, you're shaking."
Rin once again zoned out as the two Kaguyans argued like an automatic sequence. She badly wanted to hug and kiss Maki again, knowing that the gesture would provide her warmth but she was also just as certain that it would anger her. The redhead would most likely punch her too, and she punched harder than one would expect from a noblewoman.
Still, when Maki finally lowered herself into the water, Rin was drawn to her side like an orange moth to the flame. Before she could pounce though, the startled heiress slapped her face with a wet handkerchief. The loud squelch and her yowl echoed in the yard, followed by Nico's tired sigh.
"W-what do you think you're doing now?!" Hissing, Maki raised her hand to shove the princess away, only to recoil the moment her palm came in contact with the latter's bare shoulder.
Glad that the redhead was somewhat talking to her again, she opened her arms and grinned sincerely. "Rin wants to hug you too! Rin already got bored of Nico-chan~"
"Oi, am I here or what?"
Rin stuck out her tongue at the scowling ninja before sending a bright grin at the fuming redhead. "Maki-chan~ Maki-chan~ Maki-chan~ Let's cuddle nya~"
"W-what!" The taller girl glanced at Rin's outstretched arms and hurriedly averted her gaze before it travelled further down. Her face became just as red as her hair color once again as the cat-like princess scooted closer. She backed away so fast that she hit her back against the stone edge.
"Itai!"
"Maki-chan! Gomen! Are you okay nya?" Stricken, the orange-haired girl tilted her head and neared her friend tentatively. Her eyes involuntarily dropped to the latter's pursed lips, though her view was soon obscured when Maki shoved the handkerchief to her face again.
"I-I'm okay! It's nothing!"
Defeated, Rin sent Nico a helpless look, only to find a thoughtful expression on her face. The black-haired ninja then rolled her eyes and waved her hand in a shooing motion, wordlessly ordering them not to bother her.
Huffing playfully, Rin turned back to Maki and resumed her slow approach. The stone slabs that lined the hot spring pond jut out unevenly, so there was a chance that the redhead might be hurt and was just putting up a tough front. She needed to make sure Maki was truly okay.
"Buueh!? Stop it, Rin!"
"Rin just wants to-"
"Rin!"
The edgy tone stopped the princess, and she was suddenly reminded of how upset Maki was earlier. She was horrified by how easily she just allowed her instincts to take over. Maki-chan was right… Rin really does whatever she wants whenever she wants… Her heart ached at the fact she could not touch the taller girl, and it took an awful lot of willpower to return to her seat beside Nico.
The ninja raised an eyebrow at her obedience but casually called out before the awkward silence could settle. "Hanayo, everyone's waiting for you. Come join us before you make my skin all pruny."
"S-Sumimasen…"
Rin perked up at her friend's shy voice and cheerfully waved. "Kayochin~ The water is just right nya! It should do wonders for your ankle!"
The way that the towel was neatly wrapped around Hanayo's form implied that she took a long time to ensure it could not slip off. She was also hugging herself in a way that allowed her to inconspicuously cover a particular spot on her right upper arm. Ah, that tattoo! Of course Kayochin wouldn't want Nico-chan and Maki-chan to find out! Rin regretted not pulling her friend into the water first, for she did not foresee this dilemma earlier. As she scrunched up her face to brainstorm a way for the brunette to enjoy the hot spring without constantly worrying about the mark, Nico stood up and went to the edge where Hanayo was standing indecisively.
"I'm sick of those cats, Hanayo, so why don't I sit here and you take a seat beside me?" The ninja purposefully put herself between Maki and the handmaiden and blocked the view of the latter's upper arm. Red eyes sent Rin a meaningful look after Hanayo hastily did as she were suggested.
Nico-chan knew? Kayochin must have told her then… The princess found herself smiling again as she gazed gratefully at their dependable bodyguard. Again, she became more certain of her plan the more she observed how the two Kaguyans were around her best friend.
Maki glanced between them, seemingly puzzled by all this but she did not push the subject. Instead, she said, "How is your ankle feeling?"
"G-Good," Hanayo whispered timidly, squirming as all pairs of eyes were focused on her. "U-Um, I think it's all healed now…"
"I think so too, but I'll need to take a look at it again later, just to make sure," the physician spoke firmly.
"A-Arigatou." The brunette fidgeted even more now, which made the Nico exhale irritably.
"No need to be shy, Hanayo. Unlike princess cat here, you have a nice body," the black-haired woman's eyes were closed in absolute relaxation as she leaned back against the stone wall. They snapped open when Maki scoffed. "What was that?"
"Nico-chan hasn't grown at all," the redhead twirled a strand of her hair, lips curved in haughtiness.
Before the ninja could erupt, Hanayo hurriedly spoke up. "I-I think Maki-chan h-has a nicer body… she has long slim legs and the right p-proportion… I-I'm rather chubby-"
"No way! You feel so nice to hug-" The heiress' cheeks flamed in mortification, which was mirrored by the handmaiden. "I-I mean, yes, y-you have curves and b-b-bigger…" Frantic violet eyes darted away from where they lingered on the brunette's chest a moment prior. "Anyway, you have the nicer body, Hanayo, end of discussion. Nico-chan, stop laughing!"
The ninja was holding her stomach and twitching in utter amusement. "Oh Maki-chan, I'm embarrassed from watching you!"
"Well, I feel sorry looking at you!"
This time, Hanayo was unable to stop the two from an all-out argument that involved furious gesturing and angry splashing. Humming, Rin decided to observe them instead of joining them as she usually would. She glanced at her worried friend, fully agreeing with Maki that the latter felt very pleasant to cuddle. Not to mention, she has always considered her handmaiden prettier than any of the ladies at the Antarean court. After all, Hanayo has that gentle aura that made her easy to like.
Giggling proudly, Rin scooted close to her puzzled friend and rested her head on the latter's shoulder. Hanayo was also correct about Maki though. The princess was rather envious of the redhead's long legs and how grown-up she appeared. The gorgeous physician has an austere, almost enigmatic quality that enticed the inquisitive Antarean.
"Maki-chan and Kayochin are both beautiful nya~ Rin could never hope to be as feminine as you both, hehe!"
Upon hearing her proclamation, Maki stopped talking and blinked as her ears slowly turned red. She stared at the water and sank until her chin became submerged. As much as Rin admired the heiress' mature demeanor, it was this child-like side that she adored. She wondered if Maki's flushed ears felt as warm and soft as her lips, and how it would feel to graze her palms along those smooth thighs.
Rin shook her head vehemently for the umpteenth time, angry at her inquisitive mind for always trailing back to such vile thoughts. She concentrated on Hanayo's warmth and soothing voice, interlacing their fingers under the water in order to regain her composure. She felt her friend squeeze back, unconditionally comforting her without asking the reason.
Truly, she was blessed to have Hanayo with her.
And that's why Rin must let them know. They need to prepare for what things are like in Antares, so they would accept Rin's request about Kayochin.
"So how is Orihime so far nya?"
Nico quirked an eyebrow. "I don't know, we only got to this inn a few hours ago. Admittedly, it's much better than Oogumo. Why?"
"We'll be in Tenkatsu the day after tomorrow," the princess said evenly and kept her gaze at the night sky. Out of her periphery though, she noticed the two Kaguyans' wary expressions from her change in demeanor. "I'm not very good at explaining things so please, Kayochin, tell Nico-chan and Maki-chan a bit more about the court. I know we talked about it back then with our entourage and the Kaguyan council, but here, we can divulge more detailed information."
"Rin…"
She resolutely trained her eyes on the sky, relieved to see tiny glitters dotting the dark canvas. Hanayo's hand trembled slightly but kept her soothing hold on her liege's. In spite of the questions they must have, the Kaguyans listened diligently as the handmaiden began her quiet overview.
Rin also mulled over her own opinion on her birth country. The Antarean court was distinctively black and white. Prejudice was common between people of different stations. There was no mingling, no pleasantry and no defiance. Servants were mere commodity that nobles played like pawns, that they were not to have any free will. Those of lower nobility were expected to grow into their roles as well, that they were meant to assist members of the royal house succeed in their endeavors to strengthen the country.
And Antares was formidable in its own right. Hidden in the mists and highlands, the Hoshizora Clan kept the enigmatic country strong with its numerous ties with foreign lands, connected through marriages. Resources were never lacking, and their defensive diplomacy kept Antares away from the strife that plagued many countries. Internally, the iron reinforcement of stations, beaten within the minds of every individual since his or her birth, kept the land of stars free of rebellions.
"Because that's the way things are, always had been and always will be," Hanayo smiled faintly, her doe-like eyes also gazing at the distant stars. "Why rebel and disrupt the flow, when things are working fine the way it is?"
Rin made a small sound but did not add to her friend's speech, which more or less reflected her thoughts except the latter did not speak much of Lord Hoshizora. Naturally, the handmaiden was careful about saying anything negative about the man, not that Rin would have minded.
She felt nothing whatsoever towards her father after all. As the case with all of her sisters, she was nothing but a political tool for him. She had no identity within Antares.
"Huh, I'm not completely surprised, though it does sound worse than I was expecting," Nico sniffed dismissively, the characteristic scowl present on her visage again.
"Really, Nico-chan? That's awful," Maki's incensed tone had Rin quirking a small smile. "Some people are like that in Kaguya, but most of us are aware of human decency, and we treat people with respect! Though servants work for a noble house, they are still people! I-Is that why you're being so jittery ever since we entered Antares, Hanayo? "
"Maki-chan…"
"I-I won't let them treat you l-like… however they treated you before! It's wrong! How can anyone-"
"Maki-chan!" Nico growled forcefully, halting the heiress' rant. "We're outsiders. There's nothing we can do to intervene. That's not how the world works and you know it."
The Panther gritted her teeth but fell silent as the ninja asked Hanayo more of the court. The handmaiden mentioned several names they might need to be wary of, though the Kaguyans' positions as guests should grant them enough immunity, especially since Maki was from one of the four Royal Houses.
"Be honest with me. The Lord would not even bother listening to our request for help, would he?" Nico almost sounded rhetorical.
"I-I cannot say for certain. Rin-chan and I hope that he would," Hanayo gave her a wan smile. "After all, one must keep hoping."
"True, nothing would ever come to fruition if we don't even bother trying."
Maki's words resonated within the princess, yet the hollow feeling only grew stronger. Despair always squashed her hope and frankly, she was tired of the vicious cycle. Hoshizora Rin was allowed to be simply Rin during this journey, though the pain was more horrible now that she had tasted fleeting salvation. She had always dreamed of leaving her cage, to watch the stars and wonder how it would be like to be free and bright like them. She was told that her mother joined the celestial guardians after she died giving birth to her. Would the woman recognize her when she were to join her one day in the sky?
She still did not have the answer to that, and that was fine. Her endless questions kept her mind occupied and reassured her that she was capable of her own thoughts, instead of being just a doll to be married off to some foreign prince.
"Rin?" The redhead's husky voice snapped her out of her trance. Rin blinked rapidly, realizing just where she was. Delicious bowls of ramen awaited them after the hot springs, and she already promised herself to take her friends to a secret hilltop to watch sunrise together!
She wanted to leave Maki with a nice memory of her and Antares.
When Rin's eyes met the heiress' concerned ones, she reacted before she could stop herself. "An opening! Let's cuddle, Maki-chan~!"
"No! I don't want to!"
She stopped a few feet away from the scowling redhead as a terrible sinking feeling drenched her heart. Ah, Maki-chan really doesn't want Rin anywhere near her anymore… She scratched her head sheepishly and plastered an easy-going grin on her face. She must have looked weird because the taller woman glanced at her and mumbled something while raising her hand to twirl at a non-existent strand of hair. Her cheeks darkened when her finger found nothing and quickly sank back into the water with a splash.
"Nya?"
"I said…"
It was still barely audible, though Nico snorted and smirked at the redhead's glare. Curiosity took over as Rin scooted close. "What was that, Maki-chan~?"
"Nevermind, I just- wait, Rin!"
This time, Maki really did punch her in the stomach.
"Here."
"Daw! Arigatou nya~ Rin didn't know Nico-chan cares hehe."
"I can't take any more of your whining."
Rin grinned obnoxiously from where she rested, strewn across the bench like some piece of cloth ready to be dried. She moaned about possible internal damage that prevented her from fully enjoying dinner, though the Deluxe Ramen tasted just as heavenly as she remembered. After the wholesome meal, Maki and Hanayo returned to their suite so the physician could do a final check on the latter's ankle, while Nico reluctantly stayed behind to watch over the deflated feline princess. Rin rambled on and on about anything that crossed her mind, to keep her thoughts straying to the fact that her journey would be over soon. At one point, the ninja left wordlessly but returned soon after with warm cups of milk.
Ah, how Rin adored her cuddle-sized teacher!
"The ramen was the bestest you've ever had right Nico-chan? Deshou deshou?"
"That's fifth time you've asked me," Nico rubbed her temple as she took a deep sip of the beverage. "And yes, it was indeed quite tasty. How's the drink helping your stomach?"
"Fantastic! Rin's all healed now!" Truth be told, her stomach still throbbed where Maki punched her but the physical pain did not compare to the one within her chest. The redhead had mumbled an apology after dinner but she had also stated that it was the princess' own fault, which the latter fully agreed. Still, she would have pounced on the Panther anyway, even if she knew of the punch beforehand.
"The hostess said that warm milk is your favorite. So I take it you've come here a lot?"
"Hai~ Kayochin and Rin come here all the time nya, sometimes with Hikari nee-chan!"
"That's your older sister right? What's she like?"
"Mhmm, unlike Rin, Nee-chan is more of a rice person, like Kayochin! She's also very pretty and a great singer and-" As Rin went on and on, she realized that while she missed her sister, she also felt great in telling people about her. It almost felt as if the older Hoshizora never left Antares, and she was just bringing her new friends to meet her beloved older sibling. Nico also had an oddly soft expression as she listened to the younger girl.
Rin found herself chattering about the role-playing games she and Hanayo used to participate before her freedom was restricted. She also listed all the food and snacks she enjoyed, from both Kaguya and Antares, as well as the things she could not stand, such as fish and bullies. She skimmed over the countless hours of lessons on court decorum, waterpaint, foreign relations and history, though she did enjoy learning about fictitious accounts and factual records.
"But Rin really doesn't like tests! Isn't it enough that the stories stay with the reader? Why did Rin have to decipher what every description or list all the dates when certain events happen…?"
"You complain, but you enjoy reading, don't you? Sure, I pegged you as the type to run around without having the attention span to finish a novel, but I can see that's not the case," Nico threw back her head and finished her cup of milk. The notion would have appeared super cool if it were some hardcore liquor and she were a tall, foreboding warrior, like Umi or Eli.
Even then, Rin found it endearing and she adored the petite ninja the way she was.
"Reading is exciting, because… well, Rin wouldn't be able to travel to those places mentioned in books," the princess mumbled sadly, but she hastily shook it off with an excited grin. "Anyway, many of these stories are actually based off of some towns in Antares! Like, the legend of the Grudge!"
Nico looked unimpressed.
"Rin is serious nya! People around here talk about the Grudge or Vengeance from the Lord of the Mountains. Some are rumors but some are actual sightings of a big great shadow that hovers over a chosen victim! Some say the Demon is a shapeshifter, some swears it has the ability to possess humans. The Demon has both beastly and human forms! Rin sure is glad we didn't run into such a powerful youkai nya~"
The ninja yawned. Scowling, Rin playfully elbowed the older woman, making her choke in mid-yawn. "Mou, Nico-chan! What if Rin… is actually this so-called youkai? Fufu~ Maybe Rin is pretending to be the princess of Antares but really out to get y'all when you least expect it! Nyarrr- itai! What was that for? Uuuu..."
Nico had flicked her forehead with an exasperated huff. "You're not. I would have known. That's an interesting folklore, I admit. So do you believe the existence of such a demon then?"
"Not really. It's just a story right? I mean, demons don't have tangible forms. They only… gain a body due to some trigger but they don't stay long in this realm, err, at least, that's what I learned and from what you've taught Rin, Nico-chan."
"Good, you were paying attention. You're correct about most youkais, Rin. However, there exist ancient spirits that we also refer to as youkais, as well as powerful beings that are given certain liberties due to certain… circumstances."
Rin did not know why the ninja appeared rather vulnerable then. Red eyes seemed to be gazing into her very soul, both beseeching yet impertinent.
"Well, it doesn't matter anyway nya."
"Oh?"
"Some humans are the real demons."
Nico's lips quirked. "How true."
"Ah! But there are some people who seems like demons but are really nice!" Rin chuckled fondly at the thought of her instructor in Kaguya. "Umi-sensei is like an Oni but, well, Rin really likes her! Hehe, it's always fun to watch her and Honoka-chan argue too~ Oh, truthfully, Nozomi-chan and Kotori-chan remind me of Hikari nee-chan. Hmm, Rin wonders how they're doing… Nozomi-chan must be starving since Nico-chan isn't there to bring her grilled meat! Ah, maybe Umi-sensei brings them for her?"
The ninja did not make a snarky comment about the priestess as Rin expected. Instead, she quietly set down the cup on the table and turned to face the younger woman. "You don't want to go back, do you?"
"...nya?"
"Back to Tenkatsu."
Rin bit her lips and nervously cracked her knuckles, or at least she tried to. She felt weak and cold all of a sudden, helpless under the ninja's sharp gaze. She bowed her head and allowed her bangs to cover her eyes.
"Thanks for all the effort for keeping everything positive, Rin, but that's not necessary," Nico rested her small hand on the crown of her head. It felt surprisingly heavy and dependable. "I want to know how you really think."
The princess chuckled faintly. "Hehe, Nico-chan really cares~"
"Yeah, I do."
Rin looked up in disbelief but she only saw her companion's solemn expression. She found herself laughing again as she pushed against the bodyguard's hand. "Rin loves you too, Nico-chan!"
"Bah you're insufferable." Nico used both hands to ruffle the younger woman's tresses. Giggling and squirming, she reached out for the other's unbound tresses and tugged two fistfuls of hair. They shoved and pulled at each other, growling but also laughing. Neither was willing to surrender, or it would have been the case normally.
Fooling around with the ninja was so much fun that it actually made her weary all of a sudden. Her heart ached as she allowed her arms to drop to her side. "Rin has to go back." It did not feel as awful stating that fact aloud as she imagined, having accepted her fate long ago.
"...Right."
"There are things that Rin needs to do… things that Rin could only do in Tenkatsu. Even if it means-" She shrugged feebly. "Well, Rin is a Hoshizora. Rin needs to be the princess of Antares."
"You're a good kid too, Rin. You're strong."
She didn't know why or how it happened, but she was crying into Nico's scarf before she knew it. Sobbing, she clung to the ninja like a lifeline, pouring out everything that had been swirling in her mind. She did not know if her squeaky voice was coherent, or maybe it was muffled by how tight she was hugging the bodyguard. Even then, Nico just let her weep.
"R-Rin doesn't want to t-trouble Kayochin… Rin must be strong! K-K-K-Kayochin's always there for Rin, but Rin hasn't! No more bad Rin… Rin will be good, Rin will be dependable! B-B-But Maki-chan, s-she probably hates Rin now. Rin is so used to g-getting her way after all," the orange-haired girl sniffled, swallowing the bitter and salty taste in her mouth as she struggled to continue. "K-Kayochin is so nice, she always goes along with Rin's ideas and lets Rin do whatever she wants, so R-Rin is just t-taking everything for granted. But Rin understands now. Maki-chan d-doesn't want Rin near her."
Nevertheless, she still yearned to touch the redhead.
"Rin couldn't c-control it! Rin c-can't explain it but, Rin wants to hug and kiss or even just hold Maki-chan's hand. But Rin will stop now. Rin's caused Maki-chan a lot of stress… anyway, it w-won't happen anymore, since t-there's no more chance. It's… the end of the journey, our journey, Nico-chan."
She let out a hitched mewl when the ninja whacked the top of her head. The sting cleared up the clutter in her mind, replacing the overwhelming misery with utter confusion.
"Tsk, quit being melodramatic. Sure the technical sense of journey will end when we arrive in Tenkatsu, but that's not the end of the story, is it?" Nico carefully but firmly pulled the sniffing princess off of her to stare into her puffy eyes. "You want to dependable? Then do it. Take charge and be the master of your story, Rin. I shouldn't even need to say this, but you're certainly a different person than the princess who left Antares months ago, yes?"
Rin's lower lip trembled, hurt by the reprimand yet encouraged by those assertive words. "O-Of course! Rin has c-changed! Rin has learned a lot!"
"There you go. So don't act like everything will go back to the way it was. Just think about it, alright?"
She tried not to whimper and held Nico's penetrating gaze. "O-Okay…"
"Geez, what a sorry sight you are." The bodyguard exhaled and roughly wiped at her face with her soiled scarf. "Come now, brighten up. Any charge of mine isn't allowed to look this pitiful."
"Nico-chan is mean!"
"Whatever."
Rin stuck out her tongue, oddly cheered up. Perhaps she might have felt worse if Nico were to comfort her, so she appreciated the former's tough treatment. After all, she already knew that the ninja truly cared.
"Arigatou, Nico-chan."
The ninja simply nodded. "Hanayo's been worried about you. Maki-chan too. I'm not saying you need to tell them everything, but don't shut them out either."
After thanking the petite bodyguard again, Rin headed for their private suite. She tried not to rub her eyes, knowing it would make them look worse, though there was not much she could do about her scratchy voice. She could always claim that she had an allergy attack or something. If she let Hanayo know that she had been crying, the brunette would blame herself even though it had nothing to do with her.
Kayochin worries about Rin much… she should take care of herself more than Rin.
When she neared the chamber, she heard voices conversing and couldn't help but listen in case she was intruding.
"Rin and Nico-chan knew. I can see that."
"I-I don't know w-what you're talking about, Maki-chan…"
"... we're friends too, right?" Rin could practically see the redhead twirling her hair just from the way she spoke. "I-I'd like to know too, about the tattoo. O-Of course, if you really don't want to, um, well-"
"Okay."
"-I guess I'm fine with- huh?"
Hanayo's soft giggle brought a small smile on Rin's face. "I'll tell you, Maki-chan. Y-You're right, we're friends after all… there's no reason why you shouldn't know. I-I guess I'm just embarrassed, I-I mean you're t-the Nishikino heiress and I-"
"Hanayo. I'm just Maki, y-your friend."
Rin gingerly tugged at the sliding door and sneaked a peek inside, noting how relaxed the brunette appeared in spite of this sensitive topic. The redhead's expression was especially gentle as well, utterly attentive as the latter spoke of her past. Satisfied with what she saw and heard, the princess quietly closed the door and headed for the kitchen, as she suddenly had a craving for riceballs.
Hanayo and Maki deserved alone time without her flitting around them like a clingy pet cat. The thought did not make her despondent. Rather, she was pleased at how her best friend was opening up to other people. It has always been the two of them, and everything was either their world or the outside world. No one had been able to come in, whether due to circumstances or their fear of having their own personal universe shattered. Trust was always hard to give after all.
Truly, she was glad to have met Maki and Nico.
After receiving a bundle of onigiris from Obaa-san and Ojii-san, she found herself sitting on the porch and gazing at the sky again. Her thoughts floated back to Kaguya and about how distant the capital was. Her experiences there, as surreal as they had been, would forever stay inside her heart. Hanayo had been happy there, and that was what mattered the most. Certainly, there were snobby officials and nobles as one would expect of a court, but the majority of the people there were nice. They treated the brunette like a human, like how a gentle soul like her should be treated.
Chartreuse eyes stared at the palm-sized riceball in her hands. In spite of her resolve, she still felt a bit lonely without her beloved friend around. However, the silence from nature was comforting, as if telling her that everything would be okay even if she was on her own. She basked under the moonlight and chewed at the late-night snack, savoring the taste and appreciating every moment in the past when Hanayo had made a riceball for her.
"Rin-chan! T-There you are."
"Kayochin!" She tilted her head at the handmaiden, whose hand was clutched to her chest as she gasped slightly for breath. Rin winced guiltily for making the other girl look all over the inn for her.
"Rin-chan, you-"
She hastily dropped her head, using the shadows created by her bangs to shield her puffy red eyes from the brunette's view. Hanayo did not question further, though her face was still full of concern. Rin peered through her bangs, noticing how those mauve eyes were distractedly glancing between her and the item in her hands.
Rin giggled. "Here you go~ Hehe, Kayochin really loves rice nya~"
The brunette chuckled sheepishly and took a seat beside her liege, accepting the snack as if she were bestowed a priceless jewel. "Arigatou, Rin-chan!"
Instead of eating it, Hanayo just stared contemplatively at the riceball while wearing this small smile. "Kayochin? Are you okay nya?"
"Hehe, this is like the first time we met. Do you remember, Rin-chan?"
The princess shook her head. They were always together, so the beginning of their tight-knit world was blurry for her. Rather than getting upset or disappointed, Hanayo simply smiled and began nibbling at the riceball. Still puzzled, Rin poked at her friend's puffy cheek and beamed at how soft and bouncy it felt.
"Rin loves watching Kayochin eat! It's very soul-healing nya~"
"R-Rin-chan!" Though abashed, the brunette did not stop chewing and only sent the giggling princess a playful glare after she finished the food. "Well, I t-think it's more soul-healing watching you s-snuggling your pillow!"
"Really nya? Like… this?"
"A-Ah! Mou, R-Rin-chan, that tickles-!"
As always, Hanayo allowed the cat-like girl to cuddle her and rub her cheek against her tummy. Gentle hands caressed her short tresses, bringing a loud purr from her throat. She inhaled deeply as she burrowed into the brunette's arms, soothed by the scent of home.
"Ne ne, Kayochin… Which do you like more, rice or Rin?"
"Rin-chan of course, silly!" Hanayo exclaimed with an amused chirp. The immediate response and certainty made the princess smile, but she was unable to stop the next words that slipped out of her mouth.
"Then how about Rin and Maki-chan? Who do you like more?"
Her best friend's doe-like eyes widened while the rhythmic stroking stopped. Rin regretted asking that but it was too late to take it back. She did not even know which answer she would prefer.
"How about you, Rin-chan? Me or Maki-chan?"
The princess sat up immediately and waved her arms. "R-Rin can't answer that! R-Rather, Rin doesn't have an answer to that!" It was the truth in its raw, bare form. While she did care for the two women in different ways, but there would never be any measure on just how important both of them were to her.
"That's my answer as well, Rin-chan," Hanayo patted her hand, apologetic for making her panic. "You're both so very precious to me."
Grinning in relief, Rin rubbed the back of her head, which prompted the brunette to giggle. "Nya?"
"That's just like Nico-chan."
Pleased at this subconscious similarity between her and the lovable bodyguard, she scrunched up her face for the best scowl she could muster. "Well, this is Maki-chan then!" She tugged at her short tresses and attempted to twirl it. "Imi wakan nai!"
Hanayo glanced around them worriedly as if expecting the Panther to show up. "T-That's not very nice, Rin-chan… maybe you shouldn't-"
"Okotowari shimasu!"
"Pff-!" The brunette tried to muffle a burst of laughter but Rin heard her. With a goofy grin, she held up her hands and spoke in a high-pitched voice. "Nico-nico-nii!"
"Oh dear!" Giggling, the brunette corrected the princess' hands until they formed the correct ILY signs. "Mou, silly Rin-chan…"
Their light-hearted laughter gradually trailed off until a forlorn silence hung over them. They scooted closer until their shoulders were touching, as if to remind themselves that they still had each other.
"One more day nya."
"... I'll really miss them."
"Rin too."
She smiled when Hanayo daintily interlaced their fingers. The warmth stood out vividly from the night chill. It was such a simple action, yet the magnitude of its effect cannot be replicated by anything else. The comforting touch conveyed a myriad of words that cannot be articulated, but the crucial message was clear as if she could hear it.
I'm here for you. The gesture seemed to say.
Hanayo's hand was soft and nurturing like the woman herself, though there were callouses from life-long harsh chores as well as small scars on her fingers and palm. Rin's heart clenched painfully as she held up this cherished hand and nuzzled the knuckles. "I love you Kayochin," she spoke quietly, somber and serious. "You know that right?"
"R-Rin-chan…" For the second time tonight, her best friend's eyes went wide in astonishment, perhaps thrown off by the lack of third-person or cat-like speech patterns.
"I…" Her voice cracked as her eyes stung from the flood of emotions threatening to crack her resolve. "I just want you to know that, Kayochin. I-" She trailed off when she found herself enveloped in a warm hug, so unconditionally accepting and gentle that the tears automatically trickled down her cheeks once more.
"O-Of course I know that, Rin-chan! I-I love you too. I-I know it'll be tough when we get b-back but, t-there's nothing we c-can't accomplish together, right?"
"Y-Yeah, we're invincible together."
"T-Then, Rin-chan, don't be so hard on yourself, please. I-I'm here, and I'll always be with you. So p-please d-don't speak as if that w-won't be the case anymore." Hanayo sounded so rattled, perhaps more than Rin ever felt. "W-We'll always be together right? Nothing will e-ever change that. Unless, y-you're really going to send m-me away…?"
The princess recalled how the handmaiden freaked out some days ago, about being reassigned to a different noble or simply being sent away as an unwanted object. That would never happen of course. The notion was ridiculous to even think about so she did not know where Hanayo got the idea from.
However, this time, her best friend was almost spot-on.
"Rin will never send Kayochin away." This would be the first and last time she would ever lie to Hanayo. She did not feel guilty because she knew that it was the right thing to do. No matter what the outcome of their proposal was, she would request Nico and Maki to take Hanayo back to Kaguya with them. Antares was not the right place for the kind soul to be. The bigoted country definitely did not deserve someone like her.
Rin kissed the crown of her best friend's head and returned the embrace with everything she had.
"Don't worry, Kayochin. Rin promises that everything will be alright nya~"