Chapter 30: Ripples of Change
November 24th. Almost 3 PM.
(Changing Room.)
[Chizuru]
"So you still are suspicious of him?" I stare at Ayamine, who was in the middle of taking off her suit.
"You saw that he has an officer's suit, and he passed the first test as easily as always. Isn't that really odd?"
"…I do concede that his performance was amazing, however, I don't believe the shortage of male cadet suits is his fault." Tapping my glasses, I then continue to get out of the suit myself.
"Wasn't he transferred from overseas? There was enough time to request a suit if there wasn't one for him." She insists.
"Um… Maybe asking for a single suit wouldn't work, right?" Tamase suggests, unable to lift her gaze from the ground.
"Could have asked for a delivery for the next batch of cadets ahead of time." And Ayamine doesn't let it go.
"You wouldn't still be thinking of treating Shirogane-kun as an American, would you?"
"…And if I do?" Giving me one of her habitual side glances, she raises a brow.
"I believe we made it clear to you that he isn't like them. Shirogane-kun was always just trying to fit in."
"Then, why is he also a star pilot from the get go?"
"He might just be talented. Don't let your jealousy speak out again."
"Did you even see how he was when he got out?" A hand on her chin, she looks up. "He wasn't even groggy, wasn't affected by all the shaking. And he's got someone from the Guard watching him."
"Sigh… Look Ayamine, we all agreed to treat him fairly from now on. None of those things are in his control."
"Doesn't mean I can't keep an eye on him."
By the Holy Emperor, what is wrong with her? I do understand her concerns, however, none of them are his fault. And… I cannot simply look away after all he did for me.
"It would be a hindrance to the squad's unity for you to continue down this road, Ayamine."
"…I can treat Special-kun however I want, so long as we get results in the trainings." Narrowing her eyes, our gazes clash once more.
"And, as the squad leader, I'm asking you to refrain from doing something you might regret later. Just like how you acted on your own when we saw those small sims and almost made him unwilling to show us the other ones. Remember?" She plucks her lips into a small circle, looking away.
"Not my fault that you want to force us to do whatever you want all the damn time."
"What?! I wasn't-"
"Really? You always insist on following orders, but didn't you also treat him like shit when you wanted? You know, despite it being bad for the squad?"
"I… I was wrong back then. I already admitted to it. And if we keep acting in that way, we'll only make our trainings worse."
"That's your opinion. We don't have to act friendly with each other if we don't want to." Coiling a fist, she shrugs before I could retort. "I will follow your order to not be vocal about my opinions, but that doesn't mean I'll just turn a new leaf because you want me to. Special-kun will have to show me he truly isn't a traitor."
"Kei-san, please." Yoroi, who was already in her fatigues, took a few steps towards us. "If you just close up, then this will end like our argument during the test." She keeps staring at Ayamine, who, despite her poker face, was now facing away from Yoroi.
"…You can think whatever you want about me, just like I can think whatever I want about Special-kun."
Having finished to get into her clothes, she sits down and grabs her boots, seeming intent on remaining silent.
"Ayamine, we can't have that attitude in the squad anymore. You saw what it did to us during the test."
"And will debating about it solve anything?" She frowned once she sent a gaze at me.
"Huh? I'm just asking you to-"
"No, you're harassing me. I am free to act as I see fit as I've been until now. Stop bitching about it."
"And precisely because of that, I'm telling you to give him a second chance!"
"Um…" Tamase, tapping her fingers, came a bit closer to me. "I don't think Ayamine-san means anything bad. I also don't think it's fair to treat Shirogane-san as we were, but she only needs to see for herself he's being honest, right?"
"That is true." She smiled, until I tapped my glasses. "However, we can't let this go as it is, otherwise this might, and certainly will, come back to haunt us later."
"Chizuru-san, I don't think insisting will change her mind."
"…I get it, I'll give her some space. But, just don't treat him unfairly from now on."
"Tch… Already heard you the first time." Going down to tie up her boots, we all got back into getting ready to leave.
"A-Anyways, it sure was a surprise, how a real simulator works!" Yoroi smiles, joining her hands. "For a moment I thought I was gonna faint."
"Yeah…" Tamase sighs as she gets her boots in place. "I wonder if I'll be able to endure the trainings from now on…"
"Don't worry, Miki-san! Akane-san and the rest seemed to get the hang of it by the fourth day, right?"
"I agree with Yoroi. The suits will accumulate more and more data each day, so by then the shaking won't cause us that much dizziness anymore."
Remembering those days, when we were left to do independent reading back from the beginning of the course while the Instructor tutored Akane and the rest in their piloting sessions, when they got sent to a table far away so that they didn't have to hold back to discuss their trainings, it made me so frustrated.
While basic TSF operation, the situation of the war, and some outlines of the systems used was available from the start, I truly didn't think the suits and all the things involved would be of such excellent, state-of-the-art technology. I do understand why they didn't want to let us know of it ahead of time, and yet… back then we barely had the morale to follow through the basics again.
…And the only reason I'm standing in a changing room is because he protected us, when we did nothing to deserve his help. He wasn't even fazed when Akane's squadmates pressured him, as if trying to make him react aggressively.
So, I should start doing an effort to regain everybody's trust, while also looking out for him. So, just like he did with Yoroi when she had just returned, I should focus on lending them my own strength.
"I was thinking on going to the library, to reread the books and try to find a hint towards how we should proceed. Does anyone want to join in?"
"Oh, yeah! I am so looking forward to reading up on how the Fubuki works!" Yoroi's smile could barely be contained by her lips.
"Sigh… We need to focus on the standard movements before that. We won't get to pilot a TSF until then."
"Man, I wonder if we're gonna get to see them when they bring them here." Swaying slowly, she closed the locker with her suit.
Sigh… And there we go again, she's lost in her own world. I do appreciate her enthusiasm, but it is very concerning to see she's as absentminded as always.
"I was also wanting to go." Tamase nods, standing up from the bench. "There is so much left to read from the books… It is a bit frightening, to be honest."
"Damn right, those books are dummy thick."
"So, would you like to come as well, Ayamine?" She looks my way, her eyes almost closed, then she nods.
"Sure, you can't bitch at me in the library after all."
"Y-Y-You! Why do you have to-"
"Sakaki-san, please don't be angry! She's just joking!" Tamase waved her hands in front of me, putting herself between us. "Isn't that right, Ayamine-san?"
"Nope, being dead serious." Placing a hand on her waist, she gives me a side glance. Then, she smirks.
Tamase's eyes shoot wide open, seeming to be wordlessly screaming, as if her eyes were melting into an abstract form as she quivered.
"If you're just going to sass me then, do all of us a favor and don't join in the studying session."
"I'll stay quiet, won't let you get under my skin anymore."
"What?! You're the one who's always-"
"Sakaki-san, please!" Tamase again trying to put herself between us, a sigh escapes my lips as our eyes make contact, I then take a step back.
"Kei-san, you too. Please don't act like that, we're gonna end up thinking the wrong thing if you keep it up." Yoroi admonished her, sounding more concerned then upset. Ayamine sighed and gave a nod.
"I get it, I also wanna get better soon."
"Sigh… Good then. Mitsurugi, what about you? …Mitsurugi?"
She was already in her fatigues, had already put her suit in its place. Folding her arms, seeming to be groaning, she was leaning on the wall. If I recall correctly, she seemed to be bothered by her performance, according to Shirogane-kun, so she might be mulling over it now. I'm sure coming to redo the lessons will do her good to clear her mind. It is very odd for her to stay this quiet.
"Mitsurugi, are you listening?"
"…Hm? Oh, my apologies." Giving me a small bow, she softly let out a sigh before brushing some hair to a side. "What is it, Sakaki?"
…Did she not even register our argument? Mitsurugi would normally jump in to stop it, now that I think about it. How odd, she must be tormenting herself for some reason.
"We all were planning on going to the library to read up on the material we were given. Would you like to join in?"
"But of course I would. Are the rest ready?"
"…Yes, we were… debating just now on what to do."
"I see. My apologies, I was lost in thought."
"Meiya-san, are you feeling well? You look rather pale."
"I am well, thanks for asking. The training left me…" She looks up before closing her eyes, sending a hand to those odd shapes she forms atop her head. "…shocked, one could say. Pay me no mind, I am fine."
"Still, it wouldn't be good for you to force yourself if you're in need of rest." Yoroi didn't let the issue go, after all her medical knowledge is her best trait. "There is much to read, so an hour or so of sleep won't-"
"I said I am fine." Folding her arms, she leaves the wall. "I welcome the chance to clear my mind, so if everyone is in agreement, let us depart for the library."
"…I see. Sorry, didn't mean to… boss you around or anything." Yoroi looks down, playing with her belt.
"Then, should we be going, Sakaki?"
"…I suppose. Are we all ready?" All of them give a nod, and so we exit the changing room.
Shirogane-kun wasn't outside, so I suppose he must have been made to aid that Lieutenant from the Guard. Even Mitsurugi didn't seem pleased with the arrangement. I only hope he doesn't become sick by forcing himself in the trainings. There is little to be done if the Instructor decides to push him as she always did. Perhaps I could ask Mitsurugi to come along to speak with her if anything happens.
As we went our way through the hallways, going to the barracks to get our bearings for the study session, Yoroi and Tamase kept discussing what they thought about the simulation, with Ayamine's one liners popping up every now and then. Yet, I can't help but notice Mitsurugi is still out of it, walking as if merely following us on automatic, her attention locked on cloud nine.
"Mitsurugi, are you alright?"
"Eh? Oh, yes. Nothing's wrong, Sakaki."
"Then, why are you spacing out so much? It isn't like you."
"I'm just… pondering on my performance."
"Then, why not discuss it with us?"
"Because I haven't made up my mind about it. I do not wish to give an… emotional response, nor to downplay mine own lacking display." Looking away, her tone turning harsh, her eyes closed with much tension.
What on earth is she this upset about? She does take her training to heart, yet this is just the beginning. This isn't like her, at all.
"…I'd say that you shouldn't take this so hard, but after the CCSE I can understand your wish to excel again." She looks down, her hands going to her belt. "However, this is merely the beginning. Let's all throw in our grain of sand, and see how we proceed from then on."
"…Yes, you're right. My apologies, Sakaki."
"Please stop that, it's unlike you. Why are you this down about it? I don't remember you being like this over firearms practice." And you were awful at that. I still remember how bitter you looked, how you wouldn't even respond after you failed right at the start of the very first sniping run.
"I'm just…" And again, she looks away while sighing Mt. Fuji out of her. "Dejected at myself, one could say."
"Well, all of us are, in a way. Let's focus on what we can do for now, alright?" I don't know why she takes it so hard, but her own personal code must be at work. I'm no one to judge, so let's simply lend her a hand.
"Yes, I agree. However, I believe you performed better than myself. You didn't seem to be shaking as much, and were tied in second place with Ayamine from our original members."
…Precisely that's why I'm mad, but I won't let it show.
"Anyways, we all have our own issues with the training, so let's get the basics ironed out today." She then nods, making a small smile.
Rejoining the conversation, we all proceeded to discuss our opinions on the sims until we reached the barracks. The study session went well enough, since both me and Ayamine made an effort to be civil about it. Thanks to all that Shirogane-kun pointed out during the lecture we had earlier, we could arrange a proper reading order that allowed us to tackle almost one quarter of the book.
He was right in that there was no need to memorize everything in here. I do wonder why there is so much unrequired, dated knowledge on these books. Either the UN is handed second-hand equipment or there is a large delay between the shipping of the manuals and the time it takes to iron out new protocols and tactics. Perhaps, some higher-ups don't want to share the knowledge.
In any case, the first reading session ended well enough.
Then, since it was still early enough and we have the day free, I asked Mitsurugi if she felt well enough to give me some lessons on CQC, but Yoroi insisted that she looked off. Despite her initial complains, Mitsurugi apologized and said she would take an afternoon nap.
I only hope she doesn't take this failure too deeply. Knowing what duty lies on her shoulders, what expectations she has to satisfy given her face, even if I don't know her situation, it would be understandable for her to need some time to meditate on her own.
And so, I simply let everyone do as they pleased. Ayamine said she wanted some more reading, so she stayed behind in the library, while us three went back to the barracks, since Yoroi proposed us to play something to kill time.
At the very least, the squad is still functional. Once Ayamine clears her suspicions, we'll be able to focus on what's ahead working as a team. I only hope she learns to keep that attitude away from the sims.
…Sigh, now, it's only waiting to see how we fare from now on, and hoping Mitsurugi doesn't dwell too much on this.
Same day. Just some minutes before 6 PM.
(Barracks. Meiya's Room. Shower.)
[Meiya]
"I cannot believe it…" Washing the foam that formed atop my head, enjoying the warm water running down my back, my lips refused to relax.
I wasn't allowed to visit his cell earlier, since he wasn't in it. Having just gone to ask yet again, it would seem Shirogane won't return to it until dinner has ended, and by then our curfew will be in effect.
Such a blunder on my part, I should have asked him to wait for me after the test. Then, we could have gone to deal with the matter of his sword. It will do him no good to delay it, and yet that discussion might have slipped his mind after all he had to go through. Not only that but, since I am still slightly doubtful towards him, I wish to be there in case Tsukuyomi decides to act out.
I know he told me not to speak of it, but if it is to shield him from further burdens I should tell Tsukuyomi of how he defended me. Perhaps Mion and Shion reported the matter already, but due to the smokescreen the UN is trying to erect, Tsukuyomi has been left in the dark.
"Yet, she also wasn't in her room." Moving my hands to my shoulders, in a futile attempt to imitate the detailed, almost dead-eye precision of his massage, I move my neck from one side to the other.
It is most odd for Tsukuyomi and the trio to not be present. Their presence wasn't around me when I trained, so something serious might have come up. It might only be her trying to pry for intel, in which case I should talk with her posthaste. Then again, she wasn't in her room, so all I can do is wait.
And yet… My hands stop, I close my eyes. As warm as the water on me, but as tender as the sheets are during winter. Just as kind as his massage was on the mountain, as careful as a mother laying down her children to sleep, such as that is the embrace I saw in the sim pod.
Why am I having such daydreams? I do admit… I see him in a new light now. However, in no way am I such a salacious person. This is… merely my hormones acting on their own. Indeed… that is the only logical explanation.
…
Furthermore… There is no way we would ever do something as shameful as… that in a sim pod. I would never give in to such ways, no matter how pleasant his massages might be.
"…No! His hands were not pleasant! Whatever am I saying?! Guh… Pah!" Some foam entered my mouth, now that taste just refused to leave it.
Uh… This is all his fault. How dare he to lay his hands on me in such a way. …I do appreciate his gentleness, but still, that was uncalled for. To even go as far as demand to call me by my name as well…
"It's a beautiful name, that's all. I just think it suits you well."
Ugh… No one had ever praised me in such a way. And he was being honest, as well.
"Your name is beautiful and it suits you, Meiya."
And it isn't as if I am ungrateful for what he did for me, or how he continued to aid us afterwards. Refusing to abandon Sakaki, and even facing off against Mion all on his own despite his exhaustion… I do see why he would have been given a Minaru Kamui. However…
"And since your name suits you, that means I think you're beauti-"
"No! He did not utter such words! Ugh… Bleargh." Great, now I ended up swallowing warm water.
Such blunder… Just what is wrong with me?! What is this feeling on my sides? Why do they tickle me so? Whatever spawns these thoughts on me?
It is true I haven't heard anyone compliment my person, aside from my performance in the trainings, in a very long time, and he did seem honest at the time… However, I am, in no possible way, so shallow as to simply lose myself over a single compliment.
Sigh… In any case, this is mine own folly. I should be grateful Takeru exposed this side of myself to me, it would be most shameful to display this out in the open. Next time I see you, I should thank you in some way. I wonder whatever could I do to aid you, Takeru…
"Hm? Did I… Ah!" I'm calling him by his name? Whatever is wrong with me?!
I think I… did try to do that a few times back during the test. Guh… How shameful of myself, to be so easily swayed. The heavens have blessed me, for the one who did so seems to be an honest fellow. Imagine what would befell me had I shown this pathetic side of myself to an untrustworthy person. I would only have given trouble to Tsukuyomi.
Shaking my head, finishing my shower, and drying myself up, I sit on my bed as I get changed.
Assuming our TSFs arrive tomorrow, I am sure Tak… Shirogane will be in our designated hangar by early morning. I can then ask him for a moment to go deliver the sword. Perhaps, I could try to see if Tsukuyomi is free after dinner. I know not what she is busy with, but a mere moment of talk shall suffice.
"Sigh… Still, I need to be careful. I never thought I would… be so careless."
Lucky I am to not have had her watching over my training, or I would have been found lacking any answer to justify my behavior. All that I went through in the CCSE, to now be held back by such a petty sinkhole…
"It's a beautiful name, that's all. I just think it suits you well."
Argh! Why did you have to say such a thing to me?! I mean, there is a point where baseless flattery becomes an insult. I do not believe he truly… thinks me beautiful. I am just… shocked. It has been a long time since I've been complimented. That is all there is to this.
Once dressed, I lay on my bed while resting both hands atop my stomach.
Still, I do wonder who he received his blade from. He was very passionate when speaking of it the day of the alarm… and even during our talks in the CCSE…
Someone who marked his life… Perhaps… Could he have been given that blade by whoever he had to mercy kill before? The way he spoke of that woman, especially when we talked by ourselves while Sakaki slept, was enough to see the wound in his heart. Was he… being courted by a fellow? Otherwise, I fail to see how he could have been handed the blade.
No… It matters not. Whoever was the one who gave him the sword, he seems honest enough and already agreed to return it. Yes, that is what matters most.
…However, it does make me wonder… The way he spoke of her, how he defended his sword before… and even the first time we dueled, how happy he was when he told me of the time he was soundly bested by someone far better than him…
"…Just who was that woman? What did she do to ignite such a fire in your eyes?"
Considering everything, she must have been one of our high fellows, to have been sent to Yukon. I wonder… what kind of fellow she was. She surely was mature enough to not let some prejudices blind her actions. To make someone as talented as Shirogane fall for her, who could she have been?
"Sigh… No, this isn't what I should be thinking about."
Standing up, running both hands over my trousers, I yet again sigh.
Remember all what you were taught about poise, remember what Grandfather said about keeping one's composure in front of vile compliments, and… remember what Tsukuyomi taught me since we first met.
Even if he was sincere, there is much separating us. And even if he does have a Minaru Kamui… I cannot expect him to remain being my fellow. After all… I am a shadow.
Remembering those days I was under Grandfather's care, and how it later became worse once I was assigned as Sister's body double, how 'freedom' was erased from my lexicon…
I was always alone. The heavens have blessed me with such caring squadmates, and for Ta… Shirogane to have given me a second chance despite my lackluster behavior. Now that I'm finally able to have some measure of freedom…
"Curiosity is not a sin, but you should be careful with it. Sometimes, the answers that you seek are not those you would be wishing to hear."
Therefore, if it does me no good to learn of who she was, I should not pursue the issue. I finally received my role and began my piloting training, this should be enough for someone like me. I will make Grandfather proud, so, focusing on my own endeavors is what I should be doing.
Exiting my room, I directed myself to the PX. Running into Tamase on the way, we went together the remaining distance, enjoying some simple chatter as we walked.
February 11th, 1989. 02:48 PM.
(Mitsurugi House.)
[Mana]
Grabbing the scarf I wear with a hand so that the gust does not take it from me, I await the moment to enter.
Then, the wooden gates are opened and I quickly walk into the grounds of the house, bowing to the attendant that opened the gate, and then quickly walking past the small garden set in the entrance and going towards the door, where I am welcomed by a maid in service of Raiden-sama. After the greeting, she moves aside and opens the door for me, so I then enter the Mitsurugi residence.
I have been made to wear a rather modest dress for the occasion and I have tied my hair in a single hairbun to travel here. Even if I have been ordered to move using the trains of the House, I must remain ever vigilant for this is a secret task given to me by Yohime-sama herself. My concerns over Maya's attitude should remain subdued until my return to the Koubuin House, for now I have only one task ahead of me.
I am guided to the living room by the maid. Raiden-sama was sitting there, waiting for me.
"Good afternoon, Raiden-sama." I give him a bow, then later I remain standing in attention.
"Welcome, Tsukuyomi. Please, sit down, let us enjoy some tea as we talk." Thanking him for his kindness, I sit in front of him, serving myself some tea. "Now, I am not wishing to sound ungrateful, however I believe I told Takahisa-sama I required no retainers." He folded his arms, sizing me up with his stare.
"I have been tasked with aiding you in Meiya-sama's teaching, and the order was issued to me by Yohime-sama. I will not be staying here, at the least not for now."
"I see. Then tell me, what have you been tasked to teach her?"
I proceeded to inform him of my orders, which encompassed many subjects and areas. From our history to how to conduct herself in the higher circles, from how to employ Shogi as a form of negotiation, to how she should carry herself in front of others. As well as all other lessons regarding her education, even if I'll be but an overseer for the time being.
"This does feel as if you were a retainer…"
"Yohime-sama was clear on her orders, however. I am not staying here, I shall be coming every odd day from now on."
"Haha, I understand Tsukuyomi. Now then, allow me to ask you a question."
He shifted in his seat, his coming gaze sent a shiver down my back. Sending the birds of caution away, the storm clouds in his stance were coming towards me.
"What do you think of Meiya?"
"What do I think? I do not have an opinion of her, I haven't met her yet."
"Answer me clearly, Tsukuyomi. What is Meiya to you?"
What has brought such hostility? This feels as if he were one of those specters in those tales, those guarding a princess. Raiden-sama narrowed his eyes filled with storm clouds, his words rumbling with thunders.
"She is another member of the Koubuin Family, regardless of her situation. I am but a servant, and she is someone I will guide and protect will all of my might if the need calls. What else could she be for me?" I also narrow my eyes at him, I know I am nothing but a fresh recruit yet I find his doubt insulting.
I only hold worry for Meiya-sama in my heart, as I do for Yuuhi-sama. They are one of the reasons I am who I am, and I desire nothing short of being by their side to aid them in what I can, in what they might need from me.
Even if I also would like to bestow them kindness, I know such closeness could backfire. Sigh… I can still show them what affection means through other ways. Using my cooking, for example.
Raiden-sama remained staring at me silently for some seconds, grasping his beard as he did. I couldn't help but to gulp under his stare, clenching my fists and bringing my legs closer. It feels as if someone were passing a feather just over the nape of my neck right now, trying to force me to make a miss.
"I see, so that's how you think." He relaxed his posture, I had to hold a sigh as he did. "Well, do forgive the inquiry. Meiya should be done with her math lessons, were you wishing to see her now?"
"Yes, if you so allow."
He stood up and I followed, however he went towards a set of stairs on a corner of the house. Those stairs descended for some reason.
"Raiden-sama, where are we going?"
"To see Meiya, of course."
"Forgive me for asking but… Is she being kept on the basement?"
"Yes, that is the case. The traditions so demand. It is sad, but she spends most of her time there." He says, a tint of grief apparent in his squinting eyes.
The weight of his words on him was as obvious as the dissonance of the grand steel door we found at the end of the stairs with the rest of the house. It resembles those founds in prisons, made entirely out of steel with a small rectangular area to see further into the room. As if this were the entrance to a dungeon were criminals are kept in, as if something monstrous was on the other side and that required such a door to be framed into the wall in such a way.
As he opens it and enters, I also follow behind. A rather well decorated living room came into view, in extravagant blue as I was told Raiden-sama likes, an elderly man was sitting by a little girl's side pointing to her book in the other end of the place.
The girl looked at us, her eyes widening as we made eye contact. Wearing a black sweater and a long, frilly blue skirt with lines of black and white, Meiya-sama had her hair done in a similar ponytail to the one Yuuhi-sama uses.
"I believe it has been enough for today. You might retire." Raiden-sama said, the old man bowed to him and said his parting words, reminding Meiya-sama to follow with the contents of her book.
The man gave us another bow as he approached us and then exited the room. The little girl came to Raiden-sama's side, but unlike Yuuhi-sama, she had no smile in her complexion. She bowed to us, hands joined by her stomach.
"Good afternoon, Grandfather."
"Oh, Meiya-tan! How were your lessons?"
Huh?
Raiden-sama's eyes reflected a clear sky as he hugged Meiya-sama and lifted her off the ground. What does the -tan mean, however?
"I have been fine, Grandfather." The girl returned the hug, smiling faintly. "However, who is this teacher?" She said as she looked at me.
"Good afternoon, Meiya-sama. My name is Mana Tsukuyomi and I shall be looking after your learning efforts from now on."
Raiden-sama brought her back to the ground. Meiya-sama got closer and gave me a bow.
"Thank you kindly for your help, Tsukuyomi-sensei. I shall do my best to answer to your teachings."
"No, Tsukuyomi shall suffice Meiya-sama."
"Eh? No, you are my teacher. I have to show you respect." She said, the firm resolution of Takahisa-sama in her words, the same way to look straight, deeply into my eyes as Yohime-sama.
"I… Ahem, Meiya-sama please think of me as your vassal. I would prefer you referring to me as Tsukuyomi."
Meiya-sama gave a glance at Raiden-sama, curving her brows as her hands shifted together. He nodded at her and she relaxed her posture.
"I will call you Tsukuyomi then. Thank you kindly for your help."
"Please, you don't have to bow to me. It is alright, Meiya-sama." She again seemed to be uncomfortable at my words, a hand slowly rising to her chin.
"Well, I will leave Meiya in your hands. I expect you to handle her with care, Tsukuyomi." I gave a nod to Raiden-sama and he went his way out of the room, closing the door once he did.
"Alright, let's start. Meiya-sama, what do you say of having a few Shogi matches?"
"Yes, as you say Tsukuyomi." A few pebbles leaned on my back at her words. The contrast with Yuuhi-sama is subtle but evident. Meiya-sama lacks that sunshine in her eyes, as if she were minding her words to not upset me. As if… she were afraid of something.
We went towards the table that was already prepared and we then spared against each other. She is very good for her age, but I suppose she has been trained in case she was ever required to be a body double for Yuuhi-sama all her life.
We spent the afternoon together seeing how good she was at what she had learned, with the passing of time she slowly relaxed a bit more. Her speech mannerisms are very good and formal, though she seems to use a rather frontal approach when using her own voice. She is even more formal whenever she speaks in 'the proper' voice, as she called it.
Meiya-sama is far ahead from both Mion and Shion in her math and history lessons, and her thought logic and ability to make arguments is astounding for her age. She… does seem to be a tad bit too stubborn when she likes an idea however, just like her father. It is truly nice to see her show emotion as she pouts when I prove her wrong as we debate over the smallest of details.
To think there are people who only see her as a political tool, as nothing but an expendable body double to shield Yuuhi-sama. I will do my best effort to aid her, Takahisa-sama, Yohime-sama. Not just as a teacher, but as a counselor and confidant.
"Well, this was enough for today. Why don't we take a small break?" A few hours have already passed, after all.
"We can still practice. There are some books we didn't see yet." She says, leaning forward. She does not like to lose a discussion, apparently.
"It is alright, Meiya-sama. Let us spend some time simply talking to our leisure, what do you say?"
"…Yes, as you say Tsukuyomi." She again bowed to me, stiffness overflowing. Sigh… I suppose it'll take time for me to be anything other than another teacher for her.
I went to the small fridge that was in a corner, found some fruits, and after peeling and cutting them I returned to her side. Bringing them to the table on a wide dish, Meiya-sama sat in front of me and ate slowly.
"You won't eat, Tsukuyomi?"
"I will, but it is only natural to allow you to pick your food first. I am your vassal after all."
"But you're also my teacher. Please, let's eat together." She pushed the plate towards me, furrowing her brows.
"If you insist, so I shall do." I picked some slices of apple, she seemed to prefer strawberries. "Meiya-sama, if I may ask, have you been taught how to wield a blade?"
"Yes, Grandfather has taught me how to use the Mugen Kidou style. I practice every day after my afternoon classes are over."
"I see. What do you say of sparing against me today before I leave?"
"Yes, as you say."
"No, Meiya-sama I am your vassal. Do not be so formal with me."
"Eh? Is it truly alright? My teachers have taught me to always be polite. They said it is rude to refer to your elders in any other way." She said, her eyes cascading downwards.
"It is true that you should abstain from such behavior, but I am your vassal. You do not need to be so stiff with me."
"But… If you say so, Tsukuyomi." Yet more rocks stockpile on my shoulders at her answer.
I guess she won't understand she doesn't need to be this formal to me in a day. Well, it is a matter of time. She'll get used to me eventually.
"Then, shall we go practice your swordplay?" She nods and stands up. I do so too, but I halt my movement as I realize the door is closed and, at first glance, it seems we cannot open it from the inside. "Meiya-sama, how do we contact Raiden-sama from here?"
"Oh, there's a button nearby to call Grandfather." She goes to the wall and points to a painting. "It's behind this, he told me to use it if I needed him to come for anything." She then steps aside, letting me get close to the painting in question.
I move the frame and see a small button built into the wall. After I push it, however, a rumbling similar to that of a stampede could be heard from up above. As if glasses and plates were thrown to the ground and shattered, as if the furniture was being moved violently, as if someone was hurling rocks at the wall, the sounds reiterated themselves for some seconds. Soon, I could hear the steel door being rammed by something. And the sound reiterated itself, this time with more violence in its echo.
I stood in front of Meiya-sama instinctively, yet as the door was swung wide open, Raiden-sama was the one who entered the room. …Why are his eyes furrowed in such way?
"Meiya-tan! What happened?!" Before I could blink, he was already behind me. Crouching by Meiya-sama's side, he ran his hands over her body to see what was of her.
"Tsukuyomi said she wanted us to practice swordplay. So I called you." Meiya-sama was unfazed by all this, however.
"Oh, is that so? I forgot to leave her a communicator, now that I think about it."
"Um… Raiden-sama, what was that noise just now?"
"What noise?!" He stood up sharply and looked around with hawkish eyes, placing a hand on the katana he had on his waist.
"No, I was talking about the noises after I pressed the button."
"Oh, that was me. I feared something might have happened to Meiya-tan, so I hurried to her side." He says, puffing his chest.
"I believe I heard some plates breaking, however."
"Don't worry, we can always buy more of those."
"However, how-"
"Now, I believe you wanted to go to the small dojo we have on the house?" Just like Takahisa-sama, he just won't allow anyone to pierce his speeches.
"…Yes, sir. That is the case."
"Well then, let us go. I believe I should have some gear you can wear to spar against Meiya. But of course, you will be careful with her, won't you Tsukuyomi?" Again, his eyes took a hawkish tint. I stand in attention by reflex, nodding at his words. "Good. Now, let us be on our way."
As we returned to the surface, I saw three maids sighing as they tried to fix what little was left of the living room.
Going out to the garden, we went to a small building to a side. The dojo wasn't as big as I assumed it would be, but it was enough. Raiden-sama gestured to a side, towards the changing room. After changing into the traditional protective gear, not the new one I have become used to in my training on the Guard, me and Meiya-sama each grabbed a wooden sword. Taking our positions, she took the Mugen Kidou stance while I chose to take Waki.
She makes the first move, a frontal slash. I parry and pressure her with few but precise attacks. Unlike Maya, I vastly prefer to take a more reactive approach and capitalize on the mistakes my opponent makes. After all, the one who shows the first signs loses. Prediction is half a fight.
She tries to aim to my lower left, I allow her to pressure me for a moment. Deflecting her attacks with ease, I shift my footing. Moving forward with my left I send few, but strong attacks at her. Aiming upwards, I keep pressuring her. Once I realized it was impossible for her to counter me at this speed, I arched my knees and went for the final blow. I pushed forward one last time and delivered a downwards slash, that she barely managed to parry. She took a step back and tried to block the follow up, but the force of the strike made her slip backwards. Falling to the ground, Meiya-sama didn't let go of her blade however. I halt my movements, letting out a sigh.
"Well, this is my victory. Well done, Meiya-sama." I help her up and we then bow to each other.
"That was a spectacular bout, Tsukuyomi. As expected of someone of your family." Raiden-sama praised me, clapping a few times as he got closer. "Meiya, what did you think?"
"It was a good duel." Some stiffness resided in her voice, it seems she is upset to have lost. "Tsukuyomi, would you practice with me again sometime?"
"Why, of course. I have been assigned to aid you, so if you so desire I can spar with you any time, Meiya-sama." And for the first time in today, she smiled at me.
It wasn't Yuuhi-sama's wide, radiant smile. It was a smaller, but in a certain way stronger, smile. The sun will always shine bright no matter which day it is, however that is not the same for the night. That is why the landscape one can see during a full moon night is a sight to behold.
"Thank you very much, Tsukuyomi. I shall do my best to improve." I nod at her. She's still being too formal, but there will be time to fix that.
After going back to our attires and going out of the dojo, the sky had darkened already. We went our way to the basement again as Raiden-sama asked Meiya what she thought of my lessons, to which she answered she was pleased and she found all of them helpful.
"It is good to hear you two got along well, Meiya." Raiden-sama patted her head as he walked. "Now, let us enjoy dinner together."
"Raiden-sama, a moment." One of the women serving as maids got closer to us as we had reached the stairs to descend. "You have a call. Please come answer it."
"Tell whoever it is I'll answer later."
"Sir, it is about some of the repairs needed for the house. The call cannot be delayed." The woman insisted, one of Raiden-sama's brows twitched.
"Mmgh… Tell them I'm on the bathtub. I am going to have dinner with Meiya now. So Kamiyo, please relay the message to-"
Then, the two other maids appeared and, all three together, dragged Raiden-sama to the opposite direction.
"Tsukuyomi-sama, please take Meiya-sama to her room. We shall be taking dinner to you shortly." One with blonde hair said to me, throwing a key my way. She then locked her arms around Raiden-sama's right arm.
"Ah, yes…" What is wrong in this household?
"Release me! I am your boss… Let me have dinner with Meiya-tan!" Raiden-sama kept wailing as he was dragged away.
"Meiya-sama, is this normal?"
"Normal? What do you mean?"
"Does this happen frequently?"
"Yes, Grandfather sometimes has to answer important calls. When that happens and he doesn't want to, the three maids come and take away him like this. Grandfather is very strong, so they have no other choice." So this is normal to her… I guess it only shows how dear you are to Raiden-sama.
"Well, let us go back to your room."
"…Yes." She grabbed onto my arm as we descended the stairs.
After entering the room, it only took a few minutes for the food to be brought to us. I asked Meiya-sama about her kendo lessons as we ate, it seems she isn't as far ahead from the two little ones as I thought. Lacking a sparring partner who matches her skill is what's holding her back the most in my opinion.
Once we finished dinner, I began to gather my bearings to leave for the Main House again. As I was putting what few things I had brought with me back into my bag, she approached me, hesitating in the last steps.
"When are you coming back, Tsukuyomi?" Her hands joined and hanging low, she directed a gaze my way.
"I will be back every two days. Please do keep studying as you have been."
"Yes, I will. Um… Can I ask you something?" She came closer, looking from the ground to me a few times, her hands shifting together in their hold.
"Of course, what is it?"
"Can you tell me… how it is to be outside?"
"…It isn't that different. I also stay indoors most of the time."
"I see. Do you go somewhere you like sometimes?"
"Yes, I go buy books from time to time. While I also used to have free time of my own, I mostly spent it studying inside or practicing Kendo with my cousin and the others in the dojo I went to."
"How is it? Walking outside?" Her eyes staring right into mine, her lips trembled like a boat's rippling waves.
"It is nice, feeling the wind on your face. Have you been shown pictures of the Empire, Meiya-sama?"
"Yes, of parks, the castles, the shores. There is something I do not understand about them." She folded her arms, looking down.
"What is it?"
"Why do people like to go to the beach so much?"
"Well, many do like the sea. I believe you were shown what it looks like, what do you think of it?"
"I think it's pretty, but isn't the sand bothersome?" She tilted her head, bringing her hands together once more.
"Not particularly. I have only gone a few times, but it isn't bothersome by any means."
"But Grandfather told me it gets stuck to your skin, gets inside your clothes, and it also can dirty your hair and ruin your hairstyle. And it can burn your feet when you walk too." Plucking her lips, she counted on her hand the 'bad things' as she said them. I had to make an effort to not giggle at her pouty expression as she did so.
"While that is true, one only needs to be careful. Sand isn't as foul a trouble as you described, Meiya-sama." I say, smiling at her innocent stare.
"I see. Then, what about forests? I was told you can hear the animals at night. How is that?"
Meiya-sama kept asking me about how it was to be outside, how it was to walk in a park, to be in a meeting, how was the city when the people were moving around. Despite being taught about the world, she wasn't allowed to be in it. So, all she can do is fill the gaps by herself.
And in her current position, I doubt she will ever be able to enjoy such freedoms. Even Yuuhi-sama accompanies her parents on their travels sometimes, however Meiya-sama has been forced to live inside these walls forevermore. I wonder if I could bring her some books to help bridge the gaps under the guise of giving her context for her role as a political piece.
"Well, it is time for me to leave. Until next time, Meiya-sama."
"Ah… Wait, Tsukuyomi." She held my arm with her tiny hands as I stood up from my seat. "May I ask you one last question?"
"Yes, of course you can. What is it?"
"Um… What kind of person is… that Yuuhi?"
My hands halted all movement at her question. I have been forbidden of speaking of the matter, but she shouldn't know anything about her family. She should have never heard the Koubuin name, she should never have had any contact with radios or televisions… The rocks that were on my shoulders forced themselves down my throat as she stared at me with those clearly innocent eyes, clutching my arm.
"…Who is this Yuuhi you speak of?"
"I once overheard one of my teachers saying I wasn't acting like her as good as I should. Then, when I asked her about it, the teacher said I heard that wrong." Looking away from me, her gaze descends as do her eyelids, as if submerged under a frozen lake. Her hands release me and get together, folding tightly. "I never saw her again after that day, and everyone else I ask says they don't know anything." Then she looks up at me, her tiny lips shifting and twisting. "Tsukuyomi, do you also not know anything?"
…I could lie. That would be easy. However, what could I tell her? She's far too young, she wouldn't understand. But… Looking at her now… Forgive me, Father. As a member of the Tsukuyomi… No, I won't shield myself behind my family. I cannot lie to her. I do not wish to blatantly lie even if telling her the truth is beyond of my options.
"Meiya-sama, you are someone very special." I crouch and caress her hair.
"Special?"
"Yes, you are the only one who can help this Yuuhi."
"Help? Then, will I meet her one day? Will I go outside?" She got closer, expectation brimming in her trembling hands. She seemed to be holding her breath, waiting for my answer.
"…One day you might. However, you need to be away from her for now."
"Why?"
"Because you need to get stronger. You are to protect Yuuhi from the shadows, just like your name implies."
"My name? I have to be in Yuuhi's shadow?" She tilted her head, her brows lowering slightly. I pat her head softly, ruffling her fringe.
"Yes, that is the case. One day you will be old enough to learn everything. Until then, you have to keep honing yourself. Your efforts will never betray you."
"But will I go outside someday?"
"…If you're strong enough to help Yuuhi, you may. She is also alone, so I hope… you two can be good fellows whenever you meet."
"I see… I got it, I have to keep doing my best. And then, I'll be able to go outside and help like Grandfather does." She said, nodding a few times.
"Yes, but keep this a secret. Can you promise me that?"
"But… But why can't I know?"
"You see Meiya-sama… Curiosity is not a sin but you should be careful with it."
"Careful?"
"Yes, sometimes… it is better to wait to receive an answer than to purse it hastily. Be patient, the time will come. Can you promise me you'll be patient, Meiya-sama?" She nods, her brows narrowing.
"Yes, I promise. I won't say anything and I won't ask anymore. Thanks Tsukuyomi, now I know what that weird feeling was." She smiled again, her shoulders dropping in relaxation.
"Weird feeling?"
"Yes, ever since I heard that name I've been feeling weird from time to time. Like when I try to open a jar of jelly but it won't no matter how hard I pull at it, or when I can't solve my calculus and my head starts to hurt. I don't know why, but I feel that kind of way when I think of that name."
So she's… worried about her sister? I have heard twins are somehow connected. Despite never having met, she can still feel the absence of Yuuhi-sama by her side. Or perhaps… Does she resent her?
"Do you… dislike that feeling?" She closed her eyes, narrowing her brows a bit.
"No, I do not. I don't know but I feel… lonely." Her gaze lowers like an anchor, her hands again rustling together slowly. "I never felt that way before. Being with Grandfather was always so much fun, and the maids also keep me company too. But…" She stops and looks up again, returning to her neutral expression. "But since I heard that name, for some reason, I feel lonely. I don't know who she is but I want to meet that person called Yuuhi." I found no hidden feelings in her. She's as earnest as she could be, children cannot lie and when they do they cannot hide it.
Meiya-sama doesn't hold any ill will towards Yuuhi-sama. It looks like you are wrong after all, Father. Meiya-sama will never put her sister in any danger, her heart is in the right place.
"I see. I can't promise you anything regarding that, but at the least I can guarantee you that, in due time, you will know all about why you're here. Please be patient, Meiya-sama."
"Yes, I will. Thank you, Tsukuyomi." She smiled again, this time her smile was wider and truly shining.
"Good. Well then, I have to be going. Until next time, Meiya-sama." She nodded, and I smiled her way before bowing, then going my way.