a/n: this is such a long chapter and torturing weeks for my beta, Blackfang-san as he struggle to edit a very long chapter. He was shock at this..haha..anyway, thank you so much for undying effort, Blackfang-san. I really appreciate your help. And this few 2 days is also very hard on me because the first time i met with my supervisor (and she's very...strict, plus silent killer). but..I will survive!
Special 2: The Snow Queen
After the click on her phone, Natsuki glanced towards a picture on the table in front of her. The picture of a woman that she spoke to just a while ago. Taking the picture, she looked closely at the red irises of the woman.
Gorgeous...
Beautiful...
Like a princess..
I bet she never felt hurt, nor did she ever feel pain before.
Too bad, for my father's wish, you have to become the victim...
A finger slid across the picture, tracing the hair of the woman.
Fujino Shizuru...
Rising from her seat, she walked towards the double doors of her office, her butler already waiting outside bowing as she proceeds.
"Tatsuhiko, I want to have a dinner with Fujino at Mai's restaurant at 8 pm tonight. Arrange it for me. Also, go to Yamada. I want the information I need as soon as possible."
Her butler merely bowed at the order, taking his leave.
It is time..
After 18 years, finally...
The hunt begins..
Entering the lift, she clenched her fists tightly as she turned to show a burning rage spiralling in her jaded eyes as the elevator doors closed.
...
The dinner with Shizuru was fun... or so she thought.
But...
That is only the illusion
An illusion I created
Illusion of the Snow Queen...
She chuckle silently inside her mind.
I'm sorry girl, I can never be yours.
She had accepted the challenge from the Fujino manager.
This will be a good competition.
Is she trying to play cat and mouse with me?
What a...mischievous woman...Shizuru..fufu..
It was so easy for me to win over your company in market competition.
I will eventually prove it to you..
It won't be long until you're in my hand...
And you will become my good little puppet...
Looking at her reflection in the mirror, she noted the outfit she's wearing. Black leather jacket and pant, black boots and leather gloves.
But
for now..
I want to play cat with my own little mouse
A mouse that's been hidden for many years
The rotten mouse that ruin my house
Hurt my family
Sneaky little mouse
Satisfied with her look, she tied her hair in a ponytail as she strolled towards her office desk to grab a silver coloured lighter. Looking closely at the lighter, her fingers pulled the wire from the other end of it. Attentive eyes observe the wire to make sure it's fine and sharp enough. Satisfied, she tucked the lighter together with silver colour card inside her pocket.
Tonight, she will take her time to enjoy hunting down her prey. Feeling the thirst for blood boiling inside, she grinned widely. After years of waiting, finally, tonight she will have her revenge.
This will be fun...
I will relish every moment of it...
A wicked chuckle broke the silence in the room.
Kenichi Gin...
...
Children were running around in the park, playing with each other of hide and seek. From a far away, their parents monitored them while having a picnic with sandwiches in the basket or boxes of bento. Not all the visitors of the park are the families. Some were couples spending their afternoon together at ease after a long day of date on weekend. It was a very quiet and peaceful afternoon. The sweet little laughter and squeak at the background. The happy cheerful shout from teenagers playing basketball at the court. The quiet slow music from a girl who played her violin while few spectator were standing in front of her listening to her music.
Amongst the visitors, on the bench under the tree secluded from the main crowd save a little passer-by who jogged or walk with their dog, are a couple of two business tycoons.
Holding unopened chill can in her hand to her head, Natsuki resting her head on the other occupant lap on the bench.
"How do you feel?" the brunnete asked with concern.
"Urhm..still a litle bit dizzy..." Natsuki closed her eyes. "I never knew I had a problem with the crowds. I'm sorry" She spoke the truth much to her annoyance.
"It's okay. It just looks like fun and I've never been to the live band performance before. I think there are some famous bands who decided to perform spontaneously here. I didn't see any advertisement on the way." Shizuru smiled softly, her hair dancing along with the wind.
"Haha..." Natsuki laughed weakly. "Yeah, and I look so pathetic right now, am I?" Natsuki felt the cold air brushing against her cheeks as it brought a feeling of comfort to her. "I have never been to the park before. Whenever there was an event for the company, I always stayed behind with my father or stay far behind the curtain with his guard and crew. And when I entertained the invitation for the event, I just stayed far and secluded from the crowds as my guard always looked after me"
"Wow..." Shizuru exclaimed "I never knew you were such a...hmmm...princess?"
"I bet I am when it comes to peoples. I don't like interacting with people because I don't know how" Natsuki turned her gaze towards the children at the playground.
I don't have time for that. "Nao can handle it better..." she spoke unconsciously while thinking about her life.
"You seem like you're okay with me though" Shizuru touched Natsuki's face and turn her face to look at her.
At that moment Natsuki could feel her heart stopped at the view in front of her. The sound from the music and children seem mute and all the view was soon turning blank in her eyes. Her lips apart in awe at the angelic face in front of her. The fluttering brunette hair, pink lips, small petit nose, most of all, that enchanted bloodshot eyes.
Red,
the color of blood
Why do I feel I'm going to like it more that way?
It drowning me, enticing...enchanting...
It remind me more of the death
shinigami...
As if...
"My angel" she didn't plan to utter such words, but it immediately caught the other's ears as she also blushed at the words. For a short moment red ruby eyes averted sideways before looking back into viridian ones.
Her hand came up to tuck a strand of brunette hair behind her ear before she leaned in, inching closer to Natsuki's face.
Natsuki heart skipped.
Badump!
Huh!?
Soft eyelids closed, hiding the deep red eyes behind them. The moisture of her lips was visible within Natsuki's view.
K-K-Kissu?
She freaked out.
Oh no..I didn't ready for this...
M-my first...
Before she could finish her inner thought, a distance between two lips closed as Shizuru trapped Natsuki in a sweet kiss.
At first Natsuki closed her eyes tightly as she could feel the lips moving along hers, but as moments go by, she became entranced and recuperated the kiss until both stop for air. Leaning back on the bench, Shizuru raised her head to look at the orange skies above; Natsuki could swear she still can feel her heart beating as fast as thousand horses. She could feel her face flaring up and swear that right now her face is as red as a tomato. Feeling embarrassed, as if on reflexes, two hands came up to cover her face as her eyes tightly shut.
T-that was my first kiss?
What the hell...
What had just happened to me?
Mou!
Shi-Shizuru no baka!
...
PANG!
A loud slamming sound reverberated through the hall as the door of the house met the wall. Natsuki stomped inside, her face still deep red and her hair in disarray.
"Master..." her butler greeted calmly even though this is the first time he saw Natsuki lose her calm demeanor.
"Wuh-what!?" Natsuki bark.
"Calm down, Nee-chan..."
"Iiiyearrhhh!" Natsuki jump back, her hand already clenched into a fist. Her right hand reached for a knife tuck behind her waist. Looking closely at her intruder, there Nao was sitting comfortably on the sofa in the living room. Like a cat, grinning wickedly.
"Oh..Nao..." she inhaled "Gack...Nao!?"
Nao raised her brow at the sudden change in her sister's tone. "Me... Didn't I tell you I will pay a visit today for something important? Mattaku, Onee-chan, what happened to you?"
"Uh..Uhn..n-nothing" Natsuki answered shortly, averting her gaze while scratching her cheek.
"There is something. This isn't like you at all. Hmmm...where were you just now?" Nao eyed Natsuki suspiciously.
"I-I w-was at the off..."
"Master was having a date with Fujino-san" her butler cut her off.
"Gack...you traitor!" Natsuki growled at her butler.
"Uhuuuuhhh...fufu..." Nao smiled wickedly at her finding. "Seriously, Nee-chan. I can see why you are in this pathetic state"
"W-what? I told you it was nothing.."
"Well, tell me."
"err..well...ummm...Shi..Fu-Fujino-san..k-k-ki-ki..."
"REEEEEALLY!" Nao closed the distance as she looked at Natsuki. Her hand came up to hold Natsuki on her shoulder. After a silent and a deep blush from Natsuki, Nao burst out into a fit of laughter.
"All this rage and slamming the door just from a kiss? Mattaku, Nee-chan, you are such a virgin. It's just a kiss, calm down."
"I-It's my first kiss, baka"
"Yeah, indeed...but it was just a kiss. Why are you so pumped up?" Nao snickered. "It was just lips meeting the lips, flesh meeting the flesh, skin to ski.."
Natsuki cough into her hand. "Aside from that, why are you here, gakki?"
"Ehh, Don't gakki me, virgin." Nao pouted. At that Natsuki raised her hand to smack her sister.
"Our hq server was being breached" Nao raised her hand to shield from the incoming smack but it didn't come.
"What? who?" Natsuki turned into a serious tone.
"Don't know. But one thing is for sure, it was from our Japan server. From the inside." Nao took her seat, her eyes never leaving Natsuki.
"And what was the intruder looking for?" Natsuki eyed Nao sharply.
Unable to look back into the piercing eyes, Nao start filing her nails to calm herself. Trying not to be intimidated by the cold stare "We found that they opened and copy the files that contained the transactions with other companies and individuals. Most of it was the transactions of our underground business with our clients"
"Hmm.. let me investigate this. You just go back home and let me take care of this rat" Natsuki looked at her sister as a warning not to meddle.
uwaaahhh...
Nao shiver inwardly.
I hate seeing those eyes.. after all this time, it's still frightening me even now.
"H-hai, Onee-chan".
The investigations on the company's server and with help from Yamada bringing her to the culprit. After much thinking and discussion with Nao, Natsuki decided to give the culprit a chance, if he's willing to comply with their conditions; which brings her to her current situation.
Natsuki kept her silence as her blank expression and empty eyes looked at the man now standing in front of him. They both had been in silence for more than a minute, battling only with their eyes and inner thought.
"Yes." finally the man who now standing in front of her spoke. "I am the one who hack into the China server"
That's confirm it. This man is playing with fire.
He is a good employee, but always just do his job without even socialize with anyone.
"Kosuke-san...I ask you to give me all the files you took and forget about this" Natsuki requested. She doesn't want to lose a good employee.
"Haha..not so easy..." her employee chuckle "I want 100 million yen."
The threat didn't even bother her. Still keeping her professional and calm demeanor, she asked her employee "What if I don't want to?"
"I will give all the files to the press. I will tell them that the Zhang Group financing the notorious and most wanted assassin, the Shang" the man smiled victoriously for he thought he had scare his superior.
"Okay..." Natsuki paused and turned towards the view outside her office beyond the glass
Looks like the negotiation is over.
Don't blame me for I don't have any choice.
And it doesn't look like he knows who I really am.
"I have to meet with Fujino-san tonight. So let's meet somewhere after 12. You can arrange the place" Natsuki spoke without facing her employee.
"I want you to come alone. If you brought anyone with you, I swear I will give all the information to the press." as he heard Natsuki compelled to his condition, he felt giddy. After this I can say goodbye to this company, to this world. I will buy my place in an island and stay there for good. Or so he thought.
"Okay. If you'll excuse me, I have a meeting to attend.." with that Natsuki left the office leaving her employee alone.
Such a waste
I thought he was an honest employee
Now what I saw in him
It was just mere greed...
enjoy your time while you still can..
Kei Kosuke...
….
The bell rang twelve times indicating it's already midnight. A rang on her phone alerting her of the incoming call. Pressing the receive button, she put the hands free to her ear.
"Yes" Natsuki began
"Go to the Roppongi District, alone. I want you to bring the cash money in the sling bag, use the train. No tracer" the person on the other ended commands.
Natsuki follow every command given to her until she reached the appointed place. Touching the card and lighter in her pocket, she walked towards her last destination. The stairway lead her towards the second floor of an old empty building.
hmm...
the seclude and old building heeehh...
Natsuki smirked.
Opening the door, she was greeted with Kosuke, wearing a cap with a yellow envelop in his hand. Kosuke was inspecting her form from head to toe, he noticed his boss wearing a leather glove on her right hand and one hand tuck inside her leather jacket's pocket. Raising a gun in his hand to point at her.
"Don't move" he ordered. "Open the bag and show me the money"
Natsuki silently obligate.
"Now, throw the bag here" he point at a space in front of him with his gun. Natsuki found an opportunity for her.
Throwing the bag in front of him while the bag obstructed the man vision, she quickly lunged forward. Retrieving the lighter in her pocket, she pull out the wire and wrap it around the man's neck. Without wasting her time, she pulled the wire to end the man's life. Everything went into silence...
The limp body now laid on the floor. It was only a few seconds of swift action. Opening the envelope in her hand, she checked everything, every sheets in it. All the information was here. She smile in satisfaction.
I'm sorry Kosuke-san. You were too greedy and I need to settle this matter before I return home tomorrow. You were such a good employee. It could have been better if you never saw this.
Turning around to look at the man's body for the last time, Natsuki took the sling bag and left the building.
-X-
"Natsuki-nee, I think you should go ahead. We don't want the Fujino waiting too long in the rain." Nao spoke but her eyes never left the grave.
"It's okay, I will order the servant to send them home" Natsuki gestured to one of their servants. After a short talk with the servant, Natsuki again returned to stand next to Nao. "I want to stay here with you, Nao"
As Natsuki turned briefly towards her sister, she could see a pool of tears inside Nao's eyes.
Still a crybaby. My little sister...yare yare... Natsuki sighed. Ma, father, don't worry. Rest well in heaven. I promise you, I'll take good care of Nao. I will love her like how you loved me.
It's still raining when all the guests and family members had left leaving only the two siblings alone standing on the wet grass, holding the black umbrella as if the sound of rain is the only sound to their ears.
As for me..father. I don't know what else to do with my life apart from being an assassin.. but you also took that away from me when you dismissed me and gave me to the Fujino.
What do I want?
Now you are gone too...
Leaving me alone again..
What should I do next?
I always relied on your wisdom.
All I know is following your orders, fulfilling your wishes but when you sent me to Japan, I feel like you are letting my hand go. I'm not needed anymore. I'm just a tool to kill human. Without a master, I'm worth nothing.
All that have left for me now is my revenge.
A soft hand touched Natsuki's shoulder and she immediately turned towards her guest. There Shizuru was, still standing as her face showed clearly the sadness she felt.
Why are you looking at me like that, Shizuru?
I don't understand.
The one who is at a loss is me and Nao. The one who should feel grief is me and Nao. The one who should have that kind of expression is me and Nao. Look at me. Look at Nao. How empty we both have become.
Not being able to speak the words aloud, Natsuki left them inside her heart as she simply nodded before she returned to face her father's grave again.
Father
Once I fulfil my destiny, if the Zhang no longer need me,
I will join you and Julia
With Nina, Otou-san and Okaa-san
so..
matte ne...
The meeting of the family finally ended as all the family members from the main branch dismiss to their own home, leaving Natsuki alone in the dojo. Her mind was still thinking of the result from today's meeting.
"...as for Natsuki Kruger, the family had no choice but to continue on with Ren's wish, also if the Fujino still want to continue this arrangement too. But, it becomes a concern to the main and the branch family that we are worried for Natsuki as she couldn't give her full commitment to the family. She is without a doubt a Kruger, so she destined to serve the Zhang all her life as a servant. But given the situation that Natsuki is an adopted child of Ren, her case is different. So, after much discussions and agreement from the new leader of the Zhang, Juliet Nao, we all decided, if Natsuki was to be wed to the Fujino, she must be withdrawn from the family's affair. The Zhang will take back her surname and her right in the family. Thus, she will no longer be a Zhang nor a Kruger. But, because she has become a good servant and we all feel that we had to give something for her lifelong effort toward the Zhang, we will give her part in the Zhang Japan's Branch. She can have some percent share in the Zhang Group and she can choose either she want to continue as the manager or otherwise. Therefore, the rest of the decision is upon the Fujino and Natsuki herself"
Closing her eyes to concentrate on her meditation, she inhaled slowly.
For you, father
I will marry the Fujino
If it's what it takes to merge the company you have come to love so much
moreover
What can this body be used for if it's not for you,
But for the family
Rising to her feet and clutching the katana in hand, she decided to break some sweat to calm her mind before going back to her room.
One swing of her katana and her mind is in concentration. Her mind chants the words of what her late father taught her.
Never avert your eyes from the enemy in the front.
The second swing
Precision, confidence, fast and swift cut.
Turning around, her left leg stomped forward as she swung the katana vertically.
Natsuki, never surrender your body, your soul or your mind...until the time comes
Taking a deep breath, she raised the katana before swinging another powerful blow.
"..."
Two steps then with a right leg to the front she thrust the katana.
Like the katana, a sharp sense, a graceful swift kill, a beautiful dance of blade
Taking the katana on her right hand, she swung it while turning around...
Ara-ara, Natsuki so cute.
A image of pink lips with a mischievous smirk whilst a finger pointed on her left cheek. Enchanting red orbs narrowed playfully, involuntarily invaded her process of meditation thought.
"Ack!"
Her foot slip and she hurriedly tried to balance her step.
A shiver ran down her spine.
"Wuh-what the hell was that? Oni-onna, even in my practice and meditation you disturb me, bakayarou!" she talked to nobody in the room but herself. She felt helpless. Sighing, now she can't return to her routine after such a shocking view and a cartain voice invading her mind. Feeling defeated, she grunted as she withdrew the blade within its sheath, calling it a day.
Opening the door to her room with a deadly silence, slowly she slipped through it only to find the other occupant of the room already in a deep slumber. Carefully, she retreated to the bathroom and when she came back into her bedroom, the figure was still unaware of her presence. As she was standing close to the bed, she could see clearly the beautiful porcelain face of her fiancé.
Maaa...such an innocent face you're making when the truth is you are such a tease, Shizuru.
A hand came up to tuck a strand of hair away from her small nose.
"Mou, Nat-chan Ikezu~" a husky sleepy voice escaped from the lips caught Natsuki off guard as she hurriedly retreated her hand. Looking closely again, she noticed the other woman was still asleep.
Sleep talking? erkkk...Shizuru, even in your sleep you tease me...baka!
Sighing, she tucked herself beside the sleeping woman and as if sensing her presence, the other woman wrapped her arm around her.
Now you trapped me too? Sigh..oni! What am I to do with you?
-X-
The wedding had finished successfully. Even though it was such a simple wedding with only the family member, Natsuki still could picture Shizuru's face, her kimono, her graceful bow and walk. It feels like a dream.
Yes...
Just a dream...
The dream she created out of lies...
How long will I be trap in this dream?
When I wake up
Okaa-san, Otou-san, Nina, and Master
Will you be there when I wake up?
Closing her eyes, she remembered back the words from her late father.
Natsuki, Never surrender your body, your soul or your mind...until the time comes
Ne, father..
When is the time?
Is it when I perish together with my revenge?
If it is, then I accept this.
"Natsuki-nee, no matter what they said, you are and always will be my onee-chan." she was awoken from her reverie as Nao held her hand in a firm grip and shook it.
My little sister is all grown up now.
So I don't have to worry anymore about taking care of her
She can take good care of herself more than I do.
She smiled at the cheerful face of her sister "And..you will always be my little puppy, Nao...". Her sister's reaction after that made her chuckle.
"Natsuki-nee, I guess, it's time I take this back..." Nao pointed at Natsuki's necktie.
"Wha..." Natsuki's eyes widened with shock as she stare long as if asking a question toward Nao.
The Shang crest?
What do you mean, Nao?
Do you also not need me anymore?
No...
That's not it.
My little sister would never abandon me.
So, why?
Looking again at Nao's face, all she could see is a happy and loving smile without any sadness or lies.
Natsuki sighed and smiled too.
Looking down at the item, Natsuki caressed the silver pin.
The Shang crest.
It's time I let you go too, for I am not the assassin to be hired anymore.
I'm have my own freedom on who I choose to be my prey
I'm free to choose whether to kill or not.
Is this the path you also choose, Nao?
Slowly, she pulled her tie and handed it over to Nao.
"Now, you're free." Nao smile as she stared deeply into the green orbs.
Yes, Nao...
Now, the Shang has disbanded.
"You too, Nao"
All this time, Shizuru was silently watching the event in front of her without questioning everything. Natsuki feels grateful for the patience her wife's had towards her. Just another thing she likes about Shizuru.
Even though she knows she couldn't love Shizuru the same way, part of her heart feels grateful that Shizuru is in her life. She could feel free as they spend their days with nothing to do, just by being with each other. Shizuru teaching her about freedom, about peace but most of all, teach her some emotion and feelings she couldn't comprehend at the moment, except the warm, fuzzy and fluttering feeling inside. The fast beating of her heart, the gasp and breathlessness whenever she sees those red pools. It's like she's being pulled inside those enchanted spells and doesn't want to escape. Drawn deeper into the ocean and she's feeling comfortable with it. The happiness she never thought of before.
Unknown to herself, her lips form a smile. The smile didn't go unnoticed by her sister as she started to tease Shizuru about her.
-X-
The sun was already high above the skies; the sound from the air conditioner is the only sound in the room. Natsuki stared blankly at the ceiling. From this morning, as she entered her office, she had done nothing. A sigh escaped her lips. She was unaware how many times she had sighed already from the morning. Lately, she sighed a lot.
What happened to me?
Her hand came up to touch her chest.
Why am I feeling like this?
Another sigh.
Closing her eyes, a picture of the brunette came into her mind. Opening her eyes abruptly, she inhaled deeply feeling a loud thumping of her heart.
WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED TO ME?
She cried inwardly grabbing her head and pulling her hair.
Why am I feeling like this?
That woman, why are you always on my mind?
Why my heart cannot calm down whenever I picture you.
Why do I blush deeply when I meet you?
Kami-sama!
This thing is frightening me..
Me...
An assassin...
A killer...
She shut her eyes tightly. At that moment a phone rang and she jumped in her seat.
"eep!"
P-Please..let it not be Shizuru.
Pressing the receiver button, nervously she tried to speak but the voice struck in her throat.
"Moshi-moshi? Onee-chan?" the other end spoke while she kept silent.
Releasing the breath she didn't realized she's been holding, she could feel relieved when the call was from Nao "Ah..Nao..It's just you.."
"Huh? Just me?" the other end sounded confused "Who do you expect?...is it Shizuru?"
At the mentioning of her name her breath hitched. Looks like Nao had caught it.
"Ahhh...Sou ka sou ka ..So, what is it about Shizuru-nee? Are you two having a fight? or has she finally stripped you down and lick you..."
"No. We didn't fight" she gave a short, quick direct answer.
"Then..what?" Nao implore.
"..." Natsuki's lips were tightly shut. It's not like she didn't want to tell Nao, it just she couldn't tell her. She doesn't know how to begin. "H-how do I start..."
"Oh..." a pause "You're in love with her, aren't you? That's a typical answer I know of"
"NO!" Natsuki raised her voice involuntarily.
"Yep..yep...that confirms it. You are. I know you Onee-chan. This is unusual for you. Or..."
Natsuki heard a gasp from Nao "Don't tell me..." a pause.
"Wu-What?!" Natsuki eyes twitch.
"You haven't done this and that with..."
"Shut up!" Natsuki cut before Nao started to go further with harassment. She heard laughing on the other end much to her displeasure.
"Being defenceless. I was once like that a long time ago, so I know...Well, not a long time, it was just 2 months ago. It's about time" she can feel that Nao was smile on the other end. "Tell me about it. Maybe I can help you, especially when it comes to relationships"
"Well..anoo...you see...I-I also didn't understand this myself. It started out 3 days ago that I couldn't do anything at all. I was just staring blankly and I felt...weak. A-and.. no matter where I look, what I do.. that woman is everywhere." Natsuki sighed. "This is worse than my first kill"
She could hear her sister laughing loudly at her words.
"Ne, Onee-chan. You still remember what father said? Never surrender your body, your soul or your mind until the time comes, not just to anyone.. I finally understand it as I too had fallen in love with someone. I didn't think this as surrendering...more like, offering..." Nao paused, maybe to contain her blush. "I'd gladly offer my body, soul and mind to the one I love. I think that what father meant in his words as he also loved mother so much. To me, I didn't have a chance to know mother, but I know if its onee-chan, I can offer my soul for you...because I love Nee-chan"
All this time, Natsuki silently contemplated every word from Nao. Its true in terms of social skills, Nao had beaten her. Nao is better with socializing with people. In school, she didn't have any problem looking for friends. Nao had grown up a normal life until middle school. Unlike her, she was home schooling and only spent her times to study and training in martial arts. The only best friend she had was her dog, Duran. She believed she had to become a cold blooded sword that only knows how to kill humans. Never in her imagination that she would become so much different from it. Never would she imagine her life be like the way it is right now. Nao has become so much like Julia now. A lovely woman, her first love.
Did she change?
Or did someone change her?
Another click on the phone with a red light indicated another incoming call.
"Eermm..Nao, I have another incoming call. Can we continue this after?"
"Nah..don't worry about me, Nee-chan. I call you just to know how you're doing and its look like you are just fine. So… see ya"
Pressing the second button, Natsuki answer the call "Hello, Natsuki Kruger speaking"
"This is Yamada. I have the information you want of the second person. Meet me like always" the short answer and then the call ended without waiting for a reply from her.
-X-
It was late at night when four figures currently sitting leisurely in front of the big screen watching a movie. Two of the figures wearing formal clothes were Haruka and Yukino. With popcorn in one hand, Haruka's eyes never left the screen crunching the popcorn loudly. Tonight both of them are on duty staying with Natsuki and Shizuru.
Realizing she had forgotten something, Shizuru was leaving her spot leaning on Natsuki to sit straight. At the action, Natsuki raised her brow.
"What is it, Shizuru?"
Facing Natsuki, she smiled meekly. "I think I forgot something at home..."
"Hmm? Is it important?" Natsuki inquired
"Ermm..not really. I can find the substitute if I can but..." now Shizuru's eyes were focus on her wife's chest "Well.. I don't think I have any change for this" she point at her chest which now revealing her sexy bra. "We are not the same size while the others I left here is already in the washing machine"
The words manage to get a blush from Natsuki. It's weird lately as Natsuki was always easy to blush and she enjoyed the view of it. The reason why she had developed a new hobby of teasing Natsuki.
"Well..ermm.. make sure you get back soon"
"Okay" before standing up, she kissed Natsuki on her cheek.
After Shizuru had left, it was only three women now watching the movie with a dim light from the nearby small lamp.
It was Natsuki's turn to rise to her feet as she yawned.
"I think I might head off to bed. Are you two okay?"
"Ah..don't mind us, just go to sleep, pup" Haruka reply without averting her eyes from the screen.
Closing the bedroom door behind her, Natsuki's eyes narrowed into a slit as she turned the lock on the door. Swiftly, she changed her clothes and sneaked out of the windows. Running towards a small house not far from her mansion where she kept her motorbike, she noted, nobody had followed her. All she needed was a few minutes to go to her destination and finish her errand as soon as possible.
The house trick is always the same. The location of the camera and where the main power supply, she had known it like the back of her palm.
After cutting down the electricity to the house, the occupant walked in the darkness looking for the emergency light switch. That's when Natsuki hit him behind his neck making him unconscious. Learning jujitsu and know where to hit and point is an advantage for she can manipulate how the human body work. It's just like acupuncture. Making people unconscious and waking them up is an easy task for her.
Hitting another point at her victim's neck to wake him up, while waiting for him to regain consciousness, Natsuki eyed caught a picture on the wall. Observing closely at the picture, she noted one of the old pictures are her victims with someone she knew, Kenichi Gin and...Fujino Shirai. The relation between them arose questions inside her head.
What is his relation with Shizuru's father?
Now her mind was in disarray as she tried to calm down and focus on her task. She didn't have much time until Shizuru returned to their house.
Nina, otou-san, okaa-san
A song came into her mind and with it she sang the song she remembered too well.
The song she used to sing with Nina as they were going back home from the matsuri.
But before she could end it, a grunt from her victim interrupted her.
"Hello? urghh.."
She frowned and ignored him.
After another silent she continued to sing but again her victim interrupted her.
"Urgghh… where am I? What happened?"
This time she hissed. Closing her eyes to dismiss the memories, she walked slowly towards her prey and pulled down the blindfold.
"Hello, Mr. Hector" she greeted.
"Wha..you are...?" the person in front of her was shock as her obviously recognised her. But Natsuki stop him before he can speak of her name.
"Tch..tch..tch..." playfully, yet a dangerous warning. She looked at her victim who now looked like a cornered puppy.
He obeyed as he closed his mouth tightly.
She chuckled. It never failed to entertain her how people can be so obedient when they are cornered. Desperation, a futile weakness.
"18 years ago, you massacred a family at Fuuka Island. A loving mother, a protecting father and...a cheerful sister."
"Who are you talking about?" the man played fool.
"The Kuga Family..."
"I know nothing of the Kuga Family..." he barked.
"Liar! I am the Kuga. I still remember your face. You, the one who stood in front of my father. You, the one who held the gun while looking at me. With that gun you shot my mother and you said you know nothing of it?" now Natsuki was standing in front of her victim as she stared directly into the gruff man's eyes. "So you don't remember me?" she snickered.
"I-I do. So… you… you are the child..I'm..I.." the man was now looking at his feet, as sweat started to run down his forehead.
After a short pause, Natsuki laughed menacingly as it broke the silence in the room. The man shivered at hearing the woman laugh.
"Haahahhh...tell me something, dear mister. Where is he?" she began with a threat in her voice, her words slithered off her tongue with venom.
"He? Who?" now her prey shrieked, his voice trembling.
"You know who, your boss of course" Natsuki scooted down to his eyes level, watching closely the eyes of the person who killed her parent.
"I...I'll tell you everything, just let me go, okay? I won't tell anybody about you. I promise" his wavering voice cracked.
Funny how easily people betray their master, their friend, and their partners in crime. Such a person is not worth alive and being forgiven.
"Hurmmm...haha...you can try your luck. Go on..." she smiled while retrieving a card from her pocket and placing it on the table nearby. Another hand retrieved a lighter from pocket. The man noticed the card and his eyes widened as he realized.
"Y-you are the Shang?" only silence was the answer from his captor. "Spare me, please don't kill me. I-I was just following order from Mr. Searrs." he voiced out in his frightened state.
"And where is this ?" Natsuki ask monotonously.
"Fujino Shirai is ." he trembled as he answered.
"Are you kidding me?" the question asked flatly without any emotion behind them.
"NO! He is Mr. Searrs. Searrs is his secret name. The Searrs Corporation was just a fluke. I bet nobody know who the president was in the company apart from few selected people"
"You are going to die and you still lying..." she walked towards her victim and pulled out the wire. The sharp metal became visible, shining under the moon light. Her eyes void of any emotion.
There's no way Fujino is the Searrs.
"I told you the truth. I bet it with my life" he pleaded, his eyes almost about to burst into tears.
"Then a life is what I will take, Satoru Hector" with that final word, Natsuki wrapped the wired and pull it swiftly without hesitation. The man didn't have any chance to speak any more as his body jerk violently before it went limp lifeless.
...
The door to the bedroom opened and the soft light from outside filtering through the small opening.
"Natsuki..?"
There was no answer from the figure now already under the sheet. Soft footstep could be heard going into the bathroom. At the sound of the closing door, Natsuki immediately rose from under her sheet and strip off her clothes to change into pajamas. She was so close to get caught by Shizuru. Turning her head toward the bathroom door, the sound of running water indicated the occupant was taking a bath.
It will take some time...
Shizuru...
Now her mind was going back to the words her victim just confessed.
Fujino is Searrs.
No
It cannot be
This is impossible
What a funny joke...
I have to ask Yamada to investigate this for me.
She wrapped the sheet around her and laid on her bed as her mind pondered about the words again and again until sleep claimed her.
-X-
A beeping sound from the monitor next to her woke her up. She tried to turn her head to her left, but it was restricted by something.
"You finally awake..." someone next to her spoke but she couldn't see who it was until a female doctor approached her to check on her condition.
"Do you remember what happened?" the doctor asked.
"No..." she answer as the doctor released her neck from the servical collar.
"You had an accident at the race track" the doctor explained. "Your fiancé is waiting outside. I guess she can come in now. You look fine to me aside from a broken arm and leg" the doctor pointed to her arm and her leg which were casted up. "Just a few cracks..." she joke and chuckled before she left the room.
As the doctor left the room, Shizuru came in hastily towards her. Looking at the worried face of Shizuru, Natsuki could feel pain in her chest. She choked on her words. The black ring under her eyes show her lack of sleep, the pale face showed the restlessness. Those red irises reflected anxiety and still fresh of tears. Closing her eyes, Natsuki exhaled. This feeling...there is no doubt about it.
Shizuru...
She laughed, but it's not because she found it funny of Shizuru's condition.
More so, funny of how her life turn out to be
How ironic this is...
The killer of her family...
Has a daughter
And right now, his daughter is in front of her.
How...funny...
Ne, Kami-sama
What kind of cruel fate this is?
That person now crying because of me
Will be the one who will end my vengeance
Will be the one I will kill for her father's sin
Is this my punishment?
For being a killer
I have killed so many innocent people to get this far,
Yet,
Here I am..
At the end of my revengeful road
I have to take her life
With this hand...
-X-
Shizuru...
You tried to love me
I tried to let you
But my hands are stained with blood and yours are pure as snow
And I don't know how to hold on without staining you too...
It was dark in her room as Natsuki was alone. Lying on her bed, she couldn't sleep. Shizuru hasn't come back home yet. Playing with her damp hair, she still wondered what action she should take after this. Obviously, she had feelings for Shizuru. But Shizuru is Shirai..no..Searrs's daughter. And she should make Searrs pay for what he had done to her life. Taking all her loved ones. And she should do the same, makes him feel the same, make him go through the same pain as her. The opportunity, her target is now in front of her...but...
Natsuki cringed.. Hugging the pillow tightly into her body as she closed her eyes, a tear sliding down her cheek.
Shizuru...
What should I do?
She cried inside. The pain of losing her family is still evident. But this pain of thinking she will have to lose her beloved person was also torturing her. She had to make a choice.
Shizuru...
Before long, her sleepiness was taking a toll on her as she drifted into her slumber only to be awoken as she felt the rustle of bed sheets as a faint alcoholic scent drifted from the person behind her.
"Natsuki..." came a husky voice from her intruder.
"Huh? Shiz..." an arm came around her waist
"Nat-chan. You're so cute..." she heard Shizuru spoke as it sounded slurry as she sniffed her.
"Shiz..honey..." she tried to turn around to face her wife but still feeling trapped in her place "Urgghh...you wreak of alcohol. Are you drunk?"
A chuckle came from the teal haired woman "I am drunk… in your love"
"Waaahhhh..." It was too late for her to react when Shizuru turned her body around and trapped her arms. Natsuki's eyes now wide open in surprise. Green viridian eyes focused on the view in front of her. The unfocused red orbs, her laboured breath, the heat from her reddened face and those blushes on her cheek. It's all very stunning. Shizuru looked...sexy.
"I want you tonight, love"
At her next word, Natsuki could feel the heat coming to her face as her wife lowered her head to capture the lips, hungrily kissing them.
"Urmmmffff... Shiz...what are you...urmmffff" she tried to protest. This isn't the way she wanted her first time to be. Shizuru is drunk and didn't know what she was currently doing. Her right arms still felt the pain from her injuries and moving it is impossible. She tried to escape this desperately.
Shizuru..wake up! You're hurting me...urghh..
Her cry was unable to reach Shizuru as a tongue invaded her mouth and explored her hungrily.
"You are mine. You're my wife. I want what's mine" Shizuru grumbled with her laboured breaths.
No! No! Please...stop..Help me...Shizuru..Nao...
Natsuki tightly closed her eyes. She felt violated, she wasn't ready for this.
"Ne, Onee-chan. You still remember what father said? Never surrender your body, your soul or your mind until the time comes, not just to anyone… I finally understand it as I too had fallen in love with someone. I didn't think this as surrendering...more like… offering..."
Offering...?
This body?
Is it worth ...?
Natsuki's eyes widen as she realized how she feels about her own body. All her life she never took any attention to it. Not until now.
Is it worth for her? For Shizuru?
Unable to avoid the sickness she felt towards herself, Natsuki averted her gaze for she cannot face Shizuru. Just looking at how eager Shizuru wanted her, but...is it worth it?
What have I done...?
"Natsuki... I love you. I want you. For a very long time, we never touched each other. I need you, I need this"
She could hear the desperate plea from her wife "I...I love you...I can't take this anymore..." she sobbed. Resting her head on Natsuki's chest. "Natsuki...why are we even married... is it only for the company? Do you really love me?"
What have I done to myself?
Shizuru, I'm sorry for this body that you desire as it is not what it seems.
It's not worthy of your love.
This blood stained body.
You are an angel, pure and innocent in your love,
While I am a sinner
Walking a path of a killer..
Who am I to love you?
I know my love for you is more than just my father's wish
It's a love that brings sin to my pledge.
A forbidden one.
"I love you, Shizuru. It's just...I can't do this." Natsuki answered with sadness in her tone. She felt ashamed.
This body is not worthy of your love...
"Why? Am I not enough for you?"
"No... It's not your fault. My..."
Body is already tainted with blood...
I'm not worthy of your embrace...
Natsuki chocked her unspoken word as she tried to swallow the lump in her throat.
I'm sorry...
"My body...it will disgust you. This body...is not good enough for you. It's full of scars. Scars of my life, scars of my past. My ugly scar will only make you feel disgusted." now tears were sliding down her cheeks as she tried to reason. No words could express how sad and regretful she felt inside. There's no way she could turn back the time. What had she done to her life, to this body of hers? How pitiful, how pathetic..
"Natsuki...I love you. No matter what, you are beautiful to me. It doesn't matter how many scars you have, it doesn't matter how many ugly wounds are left...your heart is beautiful. You are beautiful. I want all of you. Please let me take your pain away from this scar." Shizuru had cried, her tears falling onto Natsuki's cheeks.
"Will you accept me after you have me? Will you take responsibility of it all after this? Will you still be looking at me the same way after you see how ugly my form is?" she still felt unsure of Shizuru's words. She needs to know, after all this, will she be abandoned like a useless toy? Is she just a tool, no more than that? After all, will Shizuru go after her and stay with her no matter what her choice is?
"Natsuki...I promise you, I will. I will never leave you; never will I avert my love gaze upon you. I promise you, I am forever yours, and I will only look at you, you alone."
The next Shizuru's words came to her with tenderness.
Shizuru, how could you? How can you be so beautiful inside and out. You are an angel, and I am a sinner. Touching me will only stain your pure wings. Do you really want to fall from your heaven just for me?
Slowly, ever hesitantly, Natsuki closed their distance, feeling the soft lips.
Who am I to reject such an angel...my salvation...
If you really want to fall..
Then save me from this craziness, my love.
Opening her lips as to reciprocate the kiss, slow moans escaped from Shizuru. "Nat-su-ki...?"came a husky moan from her throat.
Retreating shortly, Natsuki stared deeply into the red pool. "Hello...stranger..." she chuckled.
Poor Shizuru.
She trembled.
How long has she endured such a strong emotion for me?
An angel doesn't know such thing.
She is no angel
What is this I'm feeling?
Natsuki opened her mouth to mutter some words but none came.
"I..."
The hurt she felt inside her chest was unbearable at the sight of a crying Shizuru. It as if she wants to get rid of anything that makes those tears from such a pure angel of her heart. Whoever or whatever they are, let them feel the hell from her, worse than the Lucifer's. Then, she realized. She was the cause of it that makes it feel more hurt. Clutching her shirt she tried to bear the pain she felt.
Gomen ne, Shizuru.
Why didn't I realize this sooner?
Closing the distance between them, Natsuki kissed Shizuru with much passion and honesty, pouring all that she felt inside hoping it would reach her partner.
The sweet kiss ended, but again she kissed, pouring the grateful she felt for meeting Shizuru, how she regret why didn't they met sooner? Stopping yet not leaving the sultry soft lips, Natsuki part her lips to gain access to exploring the others.
This time, she hope to reach her, telling her how much she had fallen in love with her. How much she means to her. How important she is to her, hoping this is not the dream that she will wake up only to find she's alone again in her room. She feared of loss. Another loss of her loved one. For it, she would sacrifice everything.
Sou ka...
Sou desu ka..
So, this is what it meant to surrender.
But,
Gomen ne, Shizuru..
I don't have any soul nor do I have heart to offer you
Because it's already been yours all along, my love.
My Shizuru.
-X-
The shining rays peeking through the curtain awoke Natsuki up to an empty bed beside her. Her hand reached out to something she was looking for, but nothing. Feeling disappointed, slowly she opened her eyes. Suddenly she felt panic and now her eyes were wide open looking around the room.
"Shizuru?" No reply.
Is it just a dream?
Her eyes were feeling burned. Groggily, her hand came up to smooth her hair.
EH?
Something feels odd. Looking down to herself, now she realized she was completely naked.
I-it's not a dream...
L-last night..Shi..we..we had..s..se
Before she could finish the words in her mind, she felt her face burn. A sound of cluttering from downstairs alerted her that Shizuru had already woken up and was prepare their breakfast.
Now I'm feeling nervous on how to face her after last night. Ahhhh~~~ what should I do?
Her hand came up to cover her face in embarrassment.
"Ya-yah, Shiz… H-how a-are y-you do-doing?"
Gahh! That won't do! Why am I sounding so nervous? Baka-baka-baka...
Standing up, she grabbed the towel and quickly entered the bathroom. After a long cold shower and now standing in front of mirror as her hair was still damp, she look at her own reflection. A mark on her neck caught her eyes, reacting to it with a blush yet again that she had lost count. Her mouth twitched as she tried to form a natural smile, yet it still looked crooked.
"Fu-Fujino-sa-san..O..ohayou~" she look at her reflection while practicing the speech.
A tear drop formed at her back as she looked at herself.
"I'm stupid and what is with the Fujino-san? She's my wife, baka!"
Gulping, she clenched a fist in front of her. "Be brave, Natsuki! This is just a small matter. Don't call her Fujino-san… don't call her Fujino-san.. Call her honey, or..L-love, or Shi-Shiz...Yosh!" Her hands came up to slap her own cheek but before she coul turn the doorknob again, she stopped.
Wait, I need time to cool down
She inhaled deeply and walked away from the door. After much pacing back and forth in the room, she mustered the courage to go downstairs to face her wife.
...
The two hour journey takes them to her summer house on the outskirts of the town. Natsuki had planned this after much thinking. The vacation away from their house will be her new beginning. She loves Shizuru dearly, and hope Shizuru will understand her. If it comes to the latter, she doesn't have much of choice but to leave. She had come to a hard decision, but she must discuss it with Shizuru.
"I regret for what I had done to my life. I also regret for living for the revenge. But, I had nothing left for me at that time; the fate is cruel towards me. Knowing you and falling in love with you became my miracle and salvation. You had saved me. But, to start a new and be free, I must end this episode first. I'm sorry, Shizuru. My parents also deserve their right."
A hand came up to touch the smooth silky brunnette and kiss it. The other person is already trapped in a deep slumber. The drug she put in the wine was effective for 8 hours or more, so she will have plenty of time to finish what she had start. Looking back at her reflection in the mirror, she pictured her tainted face with blood.
"I must end this..." a leather hand glove clutched tightly to gather some strength.
A drive to Shizuru's family house felt so fast. Like usual, she sneaked inside the house. Looking at the dimed hallway, she knew the maids were already dismissed and the master is already in the bedroom sleeping as it already past midnight. Now she had plenty of time alone with the master of the house. Ascending up the stair, her hand turned the doorknob but it was locked. It not a big problem for her as she can pick the lock. After entering the room, she soon found the body on the bed, sleeping so peacefully. It makes her feel sick. How can this man sleep so peacefully after killing her parents like it was nothing? Walking toward the windows, she opened it to let the cool air enter the room. It felt refreshing but it also disturbed the sleeping figure as she heard a ruffle from behind her. The ruffle stop and she heard a gasp with the cluttering sound as the light now shone from the bedside table.
"Who are you!"
She didn't answer, instead turning around to face the man.
"Natsuki-san?.." a pause. "What are you doing here? Where's Shizuru?"
Still not answering, she walked toward the desk, retrieving the chair and sat a few feet away from him.
"Fujino-san..." she began in solitude. "I had met Kenichi Gin and Satoru Hector, which brings me to you." Taking a picture from her pocket, she threw it in front of the man. The man looked at the picture scatter in front of him and a hand comes up covering his mouth looking at the dead body. It sickens him, makes he want to throw up.
"After an investigation with my associate, it was confirmed that you are ." she mentioned solemnly.
"WHAT IF I WAS?" Shirai was now sitting straight and discarded the sheet aside.
"Mr. Searrs..." Natsuki look at him, yet her gaze is absent of fury, just sadness. "You had order these two to kill my parent, didn't you? My parents... Kuga Saeko and Kuga Hida."
After a long pause there was no reply. Silence. Only his eyes widened at the words that left Natsuki lips.
"I..." Natsuki turn her face to look at the moon outside. "My real name is Kuga Natsuki, the eldest daughter of the Kuga" Inhaling deeply,. "Why did you kill my parents? Why... I have right to know"
"Kuga Saeko...? Yes… You look just like her now that you mention her. ...it couldn't be avoided. was running away with the blueprint of the NerveGear Technology after an accident that killed Professor Kayaba. I had used all of my money to fund the research until going bankrupt, and she had run away with all that I had left. If only she cooperated with me with the blueprint's rights, I wouldn't have had to resolve into such choice of action. It was her own fault." Shirai sneered.
"Wouldn't it have occurred to you to discuss and solve the problem peacefully. My mother would have found some way to help you, yet..." Natsuki's tongue click and her tears betrayed her as it tried to stop them from leaking from her eyes. Inhaling deeply, she continued " , I only demand you one thing. I want you to turn yourself in to the police for your crime. That is enough for my parent justice."
"Huh? Crime? What crime? I only do what I must do! Like I said, it cannot be avoided. A sacrifice must be made so we can gain what we have today"
"At what cost! You killed not just two innocent people that night. My parenst and my sister. My sister was innocent.. And if it wasn't for the Zhang, I would have died too. In fact...I too had died that night!" now Natsuki was standing on her feet, her heart beating fast as her patience went thin.
"YES! You should've died too. You shouldn't have lived to witness that! But those two bastards didn't finish their job till the end"
"YOU...!" she couldn't continue as her hand trembled in fury. "TCHH! This is just a waste. No way such a selfish person like you would understand this. I had given you choice."
"A choice? What? Now you're going to kill me too? Go ahead and turn another girl into someone like you. Oh, you know who that will be. If Shizuru found out about this, she will hate you, and after this I will make sure I'm not going to see your face anymore. If you want to kill me, just done with it, Shang!"
Natsuki eyes formed into a slit as she turned toward the man. She grinded her teeth hard.
"Yes, looking at these pictures, you are the Shang, aren't you? I know of the news about the case of these two and your employee. Hahah… We are no different. Killing people; we are both murderers for our own benefit. Don't try to make yourself righteous and the justice."
"You are going to surrender to the police, as do I..." Natsuki gripped hands tightly. She was desperately trying to stop herself from the urge to kill the man in front of him right now. The bloodlust inside her boiled violently.
"Never! I never and will not surrender..and later… when Shizuru finds out..haha..."
That was the last strand of her sanity. "Shizuru won't find out..." Natsuki cut him of before he could finish.
All emotion left her as she had lost her self-control. Now what took control of her body is the bloodlust killer. An assassin.
Tick Tock Tick Tock~
It's my grandfather clock~
An antique clock on the wall
Every hour it sound
Telling me what time it is
A song replayed in her mind as she closed the distant. Taking out the lighter from her pocket she pulled the wire at her arm length. The metal glistened with a shine from the table lamp.
"Heh..we are indeed murderer..." Shirai sneered.
She stopped in front of the man before parting her left thumb and point finger, thus letting go the wire as it return inside the lighter. Emerald eyes widened in realization.
"No..." A wicked smile etched unto her face. "I will not kill you...hehheh..you will live" now it was her turn to show a devilish grin. "...to hear and see the death of your daughter"
"Just like how I witness the death of my family, you too...soon enough" Green orbs were looking straight into red ones. "She is at my summer house. Tomorrow, I will take my time torturing her, violate her before slowly seeping her life out of her body...I will take the picture, disgrace her and you will live long to witness that. And...I will disappear again after I give those pictures to the press."
With her last words, she delivered a hard blow to the man behind his neck, rendering him unconscious. His body laid on the bed motionless as she stared down with cold, empty viridian eyes.
"It'll all be over soon…"