Akane and Katsumi's POV:
"Hey, Katsumi," Akane started, as she stopped walking.
She sighed and looked towards the ground. Katsumi stopped walking as well and slightly turned her head.
"Yes, Akane?" Katsumi asked, waiting for the reply.
Akane looked up and asked, "Why is everyone getting killed?"
Katsumi sighed and turned to Akane. She saw tears flowing out of Akane's eyes and answered, "I-I don't know."
Akane nodded and kept walking. As she past Katsumi, she wiped her tears. Twigs and leaves crackled as Katsumi and Akane continued to walk down the dark, lonely path through the thick, wide forest.
"Akane, can I ask you something?" Katsumi asked, chopping down some bushes.
Akane looked up and answered, "Yeah. What is it?"
Katsumi sighed and stops walking. She turned to face Akane. She looked upon her friend's eyes. She took a deep breathe and asked, "Are you still angry that I killed Makasu?"
Akane stopped and looked down at the dirt. Tears started to flow down her cheeks. Katsumi's eyes half closed and her eyes started to water.
"I'm sorry, Akane," Katsumi said, trying to make the tears from coming down, "I just need to know if you still are."
Akane continued to look down at the ground. The darkness of the forest covered her face. Katsumi stared at Akane, waiting for an answer. Finally, Akane looked up at Katsumi.
"No, Katsumi. No, not anymore," Akane replied, wiping her tears, "I just miss him now."
Katsumi sighed in relief and smiled. She walked towards Akane and placed her hand on Akane's shoulder. She looked at her and said, "I'm glad, but you're the only one who misses him. I do, too. Remember the chicken chasing contest?"
Akane started laughing and replied, "Of course! Who wouldn't forget? Makasu won, though."
There was an awkward silent. The howl of a wolf broke the silent. Akane and Katsumi smiled at each other and continued their journey.
Makasu Kisho, a close friend of Katsumi and Akane's. Makasu Kisho is 15 years old just like Katsumi. He works for his father's farm up north in Japan. Makasu is a strong teenaged boy. He never lived a dream of becoming a samurai, but he has the chance to become one.
Makasu first met Katsumi and Akane in the nearby forest. He was out getting wood for fire to warm his family.
