Marksman

A war has left a nation torn and its remaining heirs escaping with their lives. Little did the Admiral know that by taking them in, it would alter the life of his daughter drastically, especially when her curiosity draws her closer to the budding marksman. One night, after receiving news of her abduction, the ranger departed on an arduous journey, vowing to bring her home safely.

Previously:

Natsuki… I had never expected a move like that from her. I had always been the one to tease, to initiate a touch.. to love her from the sidelines. This.. this was so much more than I could have ever asked for. Her love.

Chapter 8

Italics – Thoughts

Natsuki's POV

I twirl my dagger, getting bored from whittling off the gnarled nodes off the wood and carving notches in them. I throw the finished stick I was holding onto the pile beside and lean back into the pillar, allowing a leg to dangle off the ledge. I peer down the height, taking in the perfectly manicured gardens below and smile when I spot familiar honey locks in the opposite building exiting the meeting hall.

I was about to holler for her, but tilted my head inquisitively when I notice two handmaids peeping out from behind an archway a distance away from her every few seconds, only to suddenly duck and giggle amongst themselves.

"What are they doing?" I mutter to Duran, who was rolling on his back, amusing himself with an insect.

It seems Shizuru noticed them as well and she had turned around. I could practically hear their squeals as they flew to her side and grimaced at the pitch.

Shizuru merely smiled, but I couldn't make out what she said to them. The two girls were beaming from ear to ear and three of them disappeared indoors. I couldn't help but frown. I knew there was always a bunch of people following Shizuru around, but it had never really bothered me. They were easy enough to get rid of. Now, there were a trillion questions floating through my head. What did Shizuru say to them? What did they say to Shizuru? Where were they going? Did Shizuru know that they were practically worshipping her?

I smack my forehead, "Stupid, stupid. Obviously she knows. She's been dealing with this for years." But, why did it make me so fidgety now?

"I'd say. Could you do that more often? I think it makes you smarter," a drawling voice sneered.

I scowl when I recognize the voice, "Get lost, Nao. How long have you been standing there?"

"Huh. You didn't even notice? You're getting worse, dumbass. It's no wonder Shizuru decided to flirt with two harpies instead."

I spin around at once, growling.

Nao bends over, clutching her stomach as she howled with laughter. "Damn it. To think, I was spending my entire time trying to incite Shizuru's jealousy when this is so much more entertaining."

I glare at her, hoping that prancing maniac would just spontaneously combust, but obviously she didn't.

"Oh come on. Lighten up. I was just joking!" Her laughter stopped abruptly, "You know, I could always deliver the two bodies to your room tonight. Take it as a gift from me."

"You'd probably have to deliver me the entire Vilitus, if that's the case, Nao."

"Wow. You have it bad," she cackled. There was a pause, before she eyed me suspiciously, "Wait a minute. Shizuru has been entertaining harpies all the time. Why the sudden sour reaction from you?" She skips over with a plastered grin, "Wait a minute. Did something happen between you both? Did you confess your undying love for her? Hang on. Was it accompanied by a mind blowing kiss? Hahahahahahahahha!"

The recollection of that and I feel myself heating up immediately. I quickly turn around, hoping that Nao did not spot the increasing intensity of color on my face. Horrid, horrid giveaway.

I could sense her sidling up to me and I racked my brains trying to think of something that would subdue the flush I was feeling on my cheeks. I yanked my hair in frustration and couldn't help but let out a growl. As I felt Nao encroach into my personal space and the temperature on my face getting hotter and hotter, I knew I'd never hear the end of this.

XXX

Shizuru's POV

I bid the two girls farewell with an angled smile, heaving a breath of relief internally. It had been a long day and the Council Meeting was taking more and more time due to skirmishes on our borders.

I understood the importance of attendance but it felt horrible to leave my dark haired sweetheart alone. She never wanted to attend any sessions despite much persuasion from my parents' and myself. I knew she wasn't one who could sit still.

She had shooed me off when it was almost time for the meeting and I couldn't help but smother her in a hug for being understanding. (She had protested vehemently, giving me the most adorable mock exasperated look but succumbed anyway. Teehee!)

Now that I was finally done, I set off to search for her; only to find her with someone I didn't exactly want to see, "Ara, ara. May I know why you are trying to grope my Natsuki when she obviously does not want to partake in your whims?"

The person in question turns her head slowly, "Why good day to you too. I thought Natsuki could use some company since you decided to leave her all alone. Besides, I think she's having fun right now."

I shoot a quick glance and Natsuki turns. I catch a glimpse of her exasperated look. That, and the telltale ferocious hue on her cheeks. I felt my brow crease and I replied easily, "Ara, Nao. I believe Natsuki …"

"Uh-uh. She's fair game still, and you know that," She interrupted me with confident smirk, coyly tucking a stray of hair behind her ear.

I knew Nao was being exceptionally testy today and I felt the words brimming at the edge of my tongue, but I held it back. Natsuki was one who did not like to proclaim her personal life to just anyone. As much as I loved to declare the recently elevated relationship status, I needed to respect her and leave it to her own time.

I was a little anxious, yes. A tad insecure, maybe. But I trusted her.

I put on my neutral expression, my gaze shifting from Natsuki and locked eyes with lime green ones. Nao turned around, facing me fully with a cocky grin plastered sideways. I could tell she was enjoying all this – she was never one who hid her emotions away – her eyes were twinkling with excitement, Natsuki long forgotten. She thrived on conflict, that mischievous redhead. But, I didn't really want to draw out this argument. I had already spent two thirds of the day away and I knew the best way to end this conversation.

"Stop it."

Both Nao and I turned, curiously staring at Natsuki. She never participated in of our .. disputing debates.. She shifts her weight from one foot to another, clenching and unclenching her fists, sure signs that she was anxious.

"Shizuru's my girlfriend, Nao. We sat by the top of the building, amidst the most spectacular scenery and I," she emphasized, "I told her about my undying love for her and yes, it was cliché, but also terribly romantic when I wrapped my arms around her slim waist and kissed her. Her lips were just so soft and she smelt like those lavender flowers I love. Mind-blowing."

I honestly felt like I blew a blood vessel when I heard Natsuki speak like that. I couldn't tell if it was from the shock or from the happiness, thought. When I regained my senses, I turned to Nao, who had a jaw wide open. She took another thirty seconds to finally jolt herself out of it. You could tell when she scrunched her nose, stuck out her tongue and pulled her mouth into a frown, "You morons are no fun anymore. Screw off."

She hopped over to the ledge, but paused and tilted her head slightly toward me, "That was utterly disgusting, but, congratulations, Shizuru." A chuckle escaped her lips, "Took that dumbass long enough, though." She shook her head at Natsuki, before flipping herself off the building.

Natsuki had stuffed her hands into her pockets, looking sheepishly down at the ground.

"Ara, ara. My dearest Natsuki, I really don't seem to recall you proclaiming your undying love for me," I giggled.

She blushed further, but pretended to shrug it off, "Ah, that was just to shoo Nao off."

"So that Natsuki and I could be alone?" I pushed my luck further with yet another tease (I couldn't help it).

Natsuki didn't seem to hear my question, though. She had creased her brows as she tapped her fingers against her side. And then she said something totally unexpected, "Shizuru, I think it is only right if we let your parents know."

This time, there was no Nao around so I let my mouth open slightly in confusion, "Pardon me, Natsuki?"

"About us. I mean, that would probably mean telling everyone in Vitilus, but I think we should let them know that we're, you know, in a relationship or something…" she trailed off.

I knew what I heard, but I was just shocked at the fact that she was suggesting it. I wanted to know the reason behind it, "But why, Natsuki?"

She cocks her head, confused, "You mean you wouldn't want them to know?"

"Yes, I would love to, I don't like to hide anything from Father and Mother."

"And I wouldn't want you to, Shizuru."

"But why? Was it because of Nao? So that she would leave Natsuki alone?" I pressed.

Natsuki snorts, "Nao would never leave me alone, unless she's finally found a new target to annoy." She sighs, "I would like it if the ones we're close to know about us. Like your parents, my sister, Mai… even Nao. I just, you know…"

I gaze into her eyes, finding only sincerity within the viridian irises. I pick up her hands, knowing she needed more encouragement to speak up and also to reassure her.

"And then your parents wouldn't worry about match-making you.. and stuff.." She mutters meekly, her head bowed.

I quickly piece two and two together as to what brought out the sudden reaction from her. A smile creeping its way onto my face, "Ara, so my Natsuki is jealous and wants to claim me for herself."

"N-No! I didn't say that! I just want to make sure that whenever you need me, I'll be the first one that comes to anybody's mind." she retorts vehemently but her expression let the cat out of the bag. She glares at me, then shakes her head, as though clearing her thoughts from my distracting tease. "You know what I mean, Shizuru!"

I lift up her hands and press my lips to her knuckles. I appreciated her honesty and opening up to me. "But Natsuki already is." I cup my hands on her cheeks and gave her a kiss, which she returned wholeheartedly. I pulled away slowly, relishing in the sweet aftertaste as I tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear.

Her hold on me tightens and she pulls me back in. I couldn't help but smile at the sudden security I felt with her holding me like that. I glance at her, but I see the hesitance and concern building up in her eyes. "What's wrong, my Natsuki?"

She swallows, "… I'm kind of nervous... Uhm, I know I am incomparable to …"

I understand at once, she feels that she isn't good enough. "Shhh, Natsuki," I press a finger against her lips, hoping to calm her insecurities. She needs to know that I will always love her for who she is. "I know what Natsuki is going to say, and I want to tell Natsuki that she does not have to do anything to prove herself. We should only do this if you're perfectly comfortable with it."

She shifts slightly and peeks up at me. All I see before me are her deep, enchanting forest greens – mixed with a little confusion, a little hesitance and a little concern. "I am sure, Shizuru. Let's do this," she nods and her eyes clear up, replaced with a newfound determination.

I shake my head with a chuckle – there was no stopping her now when she was like this. Instead, I decide to enjoy and vocalize my delight in her novel conviction, "Anyway, I have to say though. This jealous and protective side of Natsuki is really charming."

She harrumphs and whistles for Duran.

"Now, Natsuki?" I ask incredulously.

She nods, "They should be in the libraries now, I suppose?"

XXX

Natsuki's POV

I was holding my breath the whole time, barely listening to the conversational exchange. I didn't notice that I was turning purple from asphyxiation until my favorite brunette turned back around with her dazzling smile. Her features creased with worry once when she saw me and immediately wrapped a comforting arm around my waist. I coughed, hard, my brain suddenly registering the lack of oxygen, but my gaze remained on Admiral and the Lady. What would they say?

Admiral Tetsuo had his eyes locked onto mine and I shifted. Shizuru sensed my apprehension and her hand shifted, lacing her fingers around mine. His eyes moved to where our hands were interlocked and his frown crinkled further.

I gulped, but I knew I had to assume this responsibility, if I truly wanted to be with Shizuru. I gave Shizuru a quick nod and she released her grip on my hand. Clearing my throat, I began, "Admiral, Sir. I understand that this relationship between Shizuru and myself is unconventional. I am merely an ousted heir of Kagen, my homelands desecrated. My sister and I have been living under your roof, only by your good graces." I dart a grateful look at my ruby-eyed princess, "Since she would have me, I promise you that I honestly love Shizuru and I would do my best to be her companion in life, supporting her to the best of my ability."

Shizuru pursed her lips and I could tell that even she was trying hard to decipher her father's emotionless face. "Father, Mother, Natsuki has been my best friend over the years. There is no secret that we have not shared, she understands me like no one else." She throws me a glance, "I really hope you would give us your blessings because that would mean the world to us both."

"How long ago did this happen?" he asked simply.

I chewed my lip, "About a month.."

He raised a brow and turned to Shizuru, "What took you so long, Shizuru?"

"Huh? Wha..?" I blurt out but quickly cover my mouth.

Lady Fio links arm with her husband and chides him, "Natsuki's a very private person, honey. You know that. Shizuru was just waiting for the right time."

I dart a glance at Shizuru, who looked as equally confused as I was, which was exceedingly rare.

The Admiral rubs his chin and continues, "But I thought the chemistry between the both of you was very obvious.. I could see it quite a while back.. I just thought they were worried about letting us know!"

"But.. but I heard you were gonna get a husband for Shizuru!" I exclaim, taking a step back.

"Oh, that," Lady Fio smiles, "I think you only heard a part of it. I was telling Tetsuo that would be one way to get you girls to let us in on your relationship."

"We didn't actually go through with it though, we discussed it and thought it would be best if we didn't interfere," the Admiral chuckles.

My jaw hangs open and Shizuru giggles at my expression. I continue, "Well, I think that was how it all started. But honestly, I couldn't complain."

Shizuru moves swiftly besides her parents and kisses them on the cheek, "Ara. Indeed. I owe Father and Mother a lot." She sends me a coy wink.

"So that means you're okay with it?" I ask bluntly, still in shock about the turn of events.

"I was just speaking to Shizuru before the festival. I wanted her to know that we would support her in whatever she chooses. I thought you girls were just afraid to let us know."

I felt a sudden rush through my veins and my heartbeat quickening. I face my ruby-eyed princess, who had the most spectacular smile etched on her features. With her infectious and charming smile, I couldn't help but start to widen the smile on my face as well. If someone were to ask me how happy I felt, I would not have been able to describe it in mere words. No words could do justice to this right now.

XXX

Shizuru's POV

Her brilliant emeralds had disappeared behind that smile.

It was a big, genuine smile.

From the bottom of her heart.

I could not ask for more.

I had someone not only to laugh with, but also to love with, feel comfortable with and just be happy with in her company.

Like I had hoped and wished for, I was by her side.

When she could smile for me.

XXX

Somewhere in the Arixia's Base Encampments

She tapped her fingers against the smooth, polished table, absentmindedly playing with her hair with the other hand, "Now, how shall I go about this?" she murmured to herself.

"Get Hallard in," she gestured for one of the guards after quiet contemplation.

The bespectacled woman was shoved into the tent a few minutes later with a nonchalant look on her face, "You called, Marguerite?"

"Can the snotty attitude, Hallard. I need information. Who is the young woman that commanded the recent battle for the Chryzan town?

"What would you give me in exchange this time?"

"I promise I wouldn't cut off Aoi's fingers?" Tomoe giggled gleefully.

Furious, Chie slammed the table between them with her fists, causing the guards to dash in and pin her against it. Gasping for breath, she threw a bet with fate, "Kill me and you would probably never get anything."

After a short standoff as both women maintained their glares, Tomoe flicked her wrist, to which her guards dropped Chie heavily on the ground. She replied smugly, "Fine. I don't need you anymore after this. Find me a way to get that goddess of a general to me and the both of you are free to go."

"And I can trust you because you've such a fantastic record?"

Tomoe cackled, "You're so skeptical, Chie Hallard. But in this case, you don't really have a choice. It's a fair trade, don't you think? So do we have a deal?"

XXX

A/N: Apologies for the long hiatus. It's been a while since I had the time to sit down and write, so please be nice!

Thanks for reading!