Chapter 45: Weary Homecoming
June 15th, 1989. Close to 6:30 PM.
(Osaka Castle Grounds. Imperial Royal Guard Detachment Offices.)
[Kageyuki]
No sounds other than my scribbling reached my ears, taking a moment to stare at the suffocating narrow space of my cubicle I then rub my eyes. Alright, one last push and I'm done.
"…And no disturbances occurred for the duration of the patrols on the east wing…" Slowly, with simple and precise movements, I take care not to mess up my writing. I swear, if I have to redo this whole report again because of another mistake, I'm gonna headdesk.
Yet another requirement of the Guard, to deliver our reports in pristine and proper written letters. No, it doesn't cut it to just write a standard report. No, you gotta do it in Keigo. Three years and I still can't do this shit.
Fresh paint would dry faster in summer before I actually finish this. Feeling my arm cramping up, slowing down even more to make sure I don't screw this up, the tickling of the distant clock only serves to unnerve me even more.
…
Sighing hard once I finish, quickly putting the pen in place so that no small stains end up on the paper, a hand goes to my air as I lean back on my seat while I move the one I was writing with in circles, hearing my wrist complain a bit as I do. With this, my shift should be over. And that means, once tomorrow comes, I can go back home.
…I wonder how is Takeru doing now. According to Takahisa-sama, he has been left in charge of Col. Kazora's daughter. He said Takeru seemed happy to be with her when he visited the House on the weekends… Even if he refused to tell me why that happens. At least he gave me a week-long leave permit this time.
"Well, let's get this over and done with."
Placing my report in a proper envelope, making sure my small cubicle was tidy before taking my leave, I then ant march to the desk in the far corner of the office, giving the report to the Tozama that was sitting there.
No words are exchanged, not even a gaze towards me. I'd have more interesting conversations with a wall anyways. Turning around after a customary salute, filling my lungs with air, yet again I ant march towards the mess hall.
Head held high as if kept in place by suspension cables, steps coordinated and firm, all to hide my tiredness from leaking over the rim. Just like when I helped out at Dad's restaurant, when I was a waiter to earn my allowance, keeping my gaze fixed at an invisible point is all I can do to steady my pulse and pace, to avoid a reaction from coming to my face, to not spill the order I was given. To keep my cool no matter what others say.
"By goodness, it isn't even 1900 hours and he's taking his leave already."
"Whatever did you expect of a baseborn? The rumors of his performance must be complete rubbish."
Deep breaths… One step after the other… And yet, despite having boots on, it feels as if I were again walking barefooted on the wilderness. Just that there's no nice cabin to go back to, no friends to relax around. All that's here is the ever present cold pressure of the hounds.
"I am of the opinion the man must be doping himself to achieve such results."
"How ludicrous, to think he'd control a Zuikaku better than our fellows."
The heels of my boots began to cry as I sped up, my teeth sank into an edge of my lips like a hot knife through butter, and my eyes once more inspected the shiny floor and how well kept it was.
"Do you think he might be the… swain of a Shinpan or a Fudai?"
"Pah! If that is true, they surely lack taste."
"I find the claim most insulting. In no way a fellow would pay heed to a brute such as him."
More and more of those usual comments, more and more of the 'fellowship' shining for its absence. Sigh… Who cares about my efforts? Who cares about how hard I try? All they have is envy for those who wear the black dye. Not like the other inductees are any different, also giving me side glances due to 'how better treatment' I get than 'em.
Sigh… This shit blows, and it's only gotten worse since the battles against the Kagerou.
Finally exiting the office area, rid of the whispers, I sigh and shake my head. Easing up my stride, making it to the mess hall, I order my usual. The most modest food they had. Considering that we can order whatever we want from the Castle's kitchen, I could technically ask for something more… elaborate, if I had to describe the difference between the humble dinner I always have and the rest.
But I already learned what would happen if I chose to do that.
Sitting alone in a corner, the buzzing of the news on the TV as a background noise above the calm chatter, at least I can eat in peace. Monotonous and exhausting, but it's nothing I can't handle. Whatever they might say, the one winning the mock battles was our squad. For these three years I tried to reach out and be civil but I learned that keeping quiet is the best option I have.
Shame Koetsu works somewhere else… If only I was placed on his team back then… Sigh… It was the first time ever in which doing my best backfired on me. If I had been working with him, I would have been able to be more present… when she needed me there…
"Ahem… 2nd Lieutenant, sir?" Looking up, I saw one of the young fresh members of my squadron getting closer, tray in hand.
"Oh, Amato-san. What is it?"
His crimson dress as shiny as usual, he sat in front of me, placing his tray filled with the best food in the place slowly besides him. Taking a moment to try to comb his thistle hair backwards, only to yet again fail to tame that odd spike that for some reason shoots out from above his forehead as if it were an actual horn, his thick brows arching when that happened as I couldn't help but to chuckle, Amato then coughed, his gray eyes falling towards me.
"2nd Lt. Shirogane, you wouldn't be already ending your shift, would you?"
"…Uh, yes, that was my intention. Is there anything wrong?" Almost finishing my meal, I slow down as he again seems intent on not letting me turn in early.
"Well, it would set a most foul example as the leader of our flight, in my opinion." Nodding to himself before eating a spoon-fill, the young man remained staring at me in quite the obvious disapproval.
"Sigh… Our shift for the day is over, Amato-san. There is nothing left to report, our patrols are done, and we've already checked on our maintenance."
"While I concede you speak the truth, it is for the good of the squadron that we remain attentive to the duties entrusted to us." Firm as always, what a surprise.
"In that case, what would you rather have us doing at this hour?"
"Readying the reports for tomorrow's duties, for one. I believe the others would certainly agree with me in that preparing the papers beforehand would be in our best interests."
"Well, while that is true, I am going to take a one-week leave. I think you all don't really need me looming over your necks like that."
"I… suppose…" Closing his eyes a bit too tight, he continues to eat. On my end, I finish my meal and take a moment to drink, knowing he's probably not done yet. "However, even if you shall not be present for the following week, I am of the opinion that you should be showing some measure of interest in the activities we shall be partaking in during your absence, 2nd Lieutenant."
"I was informed already, and besides the habitual patrols, there's nothing as intensive as the mock battles we had just a few weeks ago. I'm confident that all of you can manage just fine. There's nothing to worry about." Not like me not being here will make a grand difference, all of you newbies are already decent enough pilots.
Continuing to eat in silence, those thick brows of him arch even more. Taking a second to rest his chopsticks and bring a hand to his chin, he looks at me with clear bother within.
"Sir, I would suggest you to try to maintain your poise when you speak. It does you no good to employ such informality during your duties, in my opinion."
"Come on, now. There's no need to be so stiff while we eat." Let me relax for a moment, dammit.
"Still, I am of the opinion that it is this attitude what spawns all those whispers that have followed our flight regardless of our performance." Not giving an inch, he slowly eats some more.
"Sigh… That's just how I am, Amato-san. There's nothing to be done." One of his brows twitches.
"However… Surely you do not find it pleasant, to be the recipient of such ill comments?"
"…And what is the core matter that creates those whispers?" Tapping my uniform, I simply look away into the ceiling.
He remains quiet, not even touching his food for a moment. It didn't last long, though.
"Even so… You could certainly make an effort to counter these misconceptions our fellows have of you."
"For example?"
"Well, you could begin to arrive on time to the trainings for one."
Guh… Waking up early is something that, to this day, I cannot do. My internal clock says seven in the morning, and no amount of training or tender hugs has changed that. Sigh… But I don't get the luxury of being stubborn anymore. I need this job, and Takeru needs me as well.
"…I suppose you are right in that. Though, I don't know how fast I'll be able to wake up earlier than I do now."
"I believe that the effort would be welcomed. Certainly that isn't out of your reach, 2nd Lieutenant." Smiling faintly, he resumes eating. Sometimes I don't know if he's just blunt or a well-intentioned douche.
"I guess it isn't, really."
And he does have a point. If I want to leave as much behind as I want, and someday be able to live with Takeru again, I gotta to redouble my efforts. And every little detail matters, so that no actual complains can be thrown at me.
Sure, the image others have of me will never change and that's a roadblock I'll never be able to overcome, but that's no excuse to let that ruin everything else I've done until now. I already failed Miho by not providing more and not being by her, I can't fail to protect Takeru.
"Furthermore, if I may, what sort of business requires you to take an entire week of leave, sir?" Again looking at me, a brow rose in curiosity.
"Hm? Oh, I just… want to go visit my boy. It's been… awhile, and I'm sure he'll be happy to have an entire week with me now."
"Oh, I wasn't aware… So you have a son?"
"Yeah, he's six and a half now. And no, I can't wait until my month of vacation." Shooting down his retort, he groans a bit. Again sending a hand to his hair, and again failing to flatten the spiky horn, his brows arch down more and more.
"Well… I suppose I can understand why you'd be in a hurry then. However, can you truly not delay the visit until your vacation?"
"No, I simply can't. He needs me there, now."
"Uh, is… Would he happen to be sick?"
"No, it's not that. It's… Sigh… It's complicated."
"My apologies, sir. I did not meant to pry."
"It's fine, really." Waving a hand in the air, I force a smile. "Anyways, my house needs me present over there, and this is what I have to do as a parent. So, you all simply keep up the good work as you've been doing so far."
"Eh? You… believe we've been faring well so far, sir?" Staring right at me, seems I caught him off guard for some reason.
"Yeah? I mean, you three are already good enough despite just joining in a month or so ago. Sure, you can get better, but your starting base is decent. You also deal with the office work in stride, and in your case I know I can leave knowing someone will handle any issues that arise nicely."
He might be a bit blunt and hesitant to affirm stuff, but Amato-san is by a long shot the most tactful of the new recruits. I mean, despite his obvious views and opinion, he still comes to talk with me, to actually hold a conversation with me despite being the son of a High Shinpan house. That's way, way more than what many others have done in the three years I've spent here.
"…Uh, thank you, sir. However, I… I do not believe I could handle any sort of issue that might occur." Hunching over a bit, lips turning into a small line, kinda seems as if he had swallowed brine.
"I mean, you're the most polite and proper of the flight. If someone has to handle the delivery of the reports to the Colonels, I honestly think it should be you."
"…And not because of my station, sir?"
"No, you just have to be like how you are when you talk with me, and you should be fine. I mean, I've been doing this for three years despite my manners. You have nothing to worry about, Amato-san."
"Is that so?" Easing up in his tension, he starts eating again.
"…I know that people also talk behind your back, and that part of that is thanks to me being your superior, but believe me when I say you're doing fine so far." Lips shook for a moment, then he sighed and nodded.
Of course, being the son of one of the four Shinpan Houses of the fellowship, the direct underlings of the Koubuins, having him serve under a commoner hasn't been received well by all the onlookers. And as hard as it is for me, the whispers also follow the three boys that have been placed under me. I know my words might not have much weight for them, but recognizing their good points is all I can do for now, until another batch of mock battles come and we prove to the others what we're made of.
"Well, best of luck in this week. I guess now it'll be your turn to face the Colonels in the dojo." Cracking a smirk at him, he twitches at my words.
"Eh? S-Surely you jest, sir?"
"Ohoho, I'm not. I am leaving for a week, so you three are under the Colonels' watch for the armored kendo practices. May the tailwind remain at your back, Amato-san." Hunching over as he rubbed one of his wrists, he groaned quite wearily like a puppy looking at an empty bowl.
"Are the matches as arduous as the rumors say?"
"Yes. The Tsukuyomi Brothers are truly fierce in a dojo. So don't take it too hard if you lose badly, I doubt any of you will be able to best them or their fellows." And I know that for all the spunk you show when you come talk with me, you take the comments of the others equally as bad as I did before.
"Sigh… It's just like back home…"
"Hm? What do you mean?" Does he have a fierce kendo teacher in his house?
"N-Nothing, sir." Plucking his lips, still as a tree, he looks away. "…I shall perform at my best. In that regard, well, did you have any advice to give us for this coming week?"
"No, not really. Again, just try to get a feel for what the Zuikaku can really do in the JIVES. Focus on what you do best, and then keep an eye for your worst trait. Believe me, you will be made to know what it is."
"Ugh… I shan't let those words hamper my efforts." Clenching a fist, as well as his cheeks, a long, heavy puff of air left him once he let the frown melt away.
"Just don't take things too hard, Amato-san. Everyone starts from somewhere. Well, I'll be taking me leave." Standing up, we share a salute. "Good night, and see you in around a week."
"…It should be 'in a week's time', sir. Please do remember to keep your poise while on duty." Narrowing his eyes and brows a bit, I can't help but to chuckle at the last minute correction. "In any case, I hope your week of leave is pleasant for you, sir."
Nodding back at him, I take my tray back to the counter and leave the mess hall. Now walking slowly, no longer minding the stares and whispers, I retreat towards my room on the barracks on the Castle Grounds.
Still, it's hard to believe they made me into a flight leader despite not getting a promotion. All of them might be fresh out of the training program of the guard, but they're all nobles. Worst, Amato-san is a High Shinpan so his family must not be very pleased about this arrangement. Just imagine when they learned of this.
"Hey, your son, that you've been raising to be at the top of this nation since birth, is now working under a baseborn!"
And then, whoever delivered the news was cut in half and hanged on a pike or something.
Sometimes I wonder why Takahisa-sama does what he does, it feels completely random and out of place. I know I performed better than ever on these last mock battles against the Kagerou, but to put these fresh recruits, and the son of one of the four Shinpan Houses of the fellowship no less, under my watch… Why did he do that? After all the mess with me wanting to leave and them sending the daughter of a Shinpan to look after Takeru… I don't get it.
Eh, at least Amato-san is tactful enough. Sure, he also is oddly insistent in marking my mistakes and 'lacking speech', but at least we can hold a conversation. And for all the poise he tries to show off, he's just like I was when I had just come here, taking the whispers as hard as a kick to the nuts.
Reaching my room, taking my dress off, entering the shower, I simply relax. It's going to be a long travel back to Hiiragi. All these time… all these months…
How has he been? Put under Col. Kazora's daughter no less, I doubt she'd have much patience for him, knowing how stubborn Takeru is at times. And… And as precious as this time is… it's just a week. And then, I'm gone until the end of the year. For only a month. And then… Who knows when I'll be able to see him again?
…
No, I shouldn't… I shouldn't worry like this… He doesn't need me like this. Gotta get my shit together, he's hurting far more than me, I'm sure.
Getting out of the bath and taking care of what little was left to do, I threw myself on my bed, since I need to wake up early.
Yet no matter how much I turned and hugged my sides, it took me a long while to fall asleep.
Next Day. Near 6 PM.
(Hiiragi District. Near Takeru's House.)
I slowly walk on the streets of Hiiragi, feeling the pleasant warmness of summer starting to appear in our weather.
In just a few minutes I'll be home, and finally… I'll see him again. As well as the person that's been taking care of him. Still, Takahisa-sama himself said she was doing a good job. But this is Col. Tsukuyomi's daughter we're talking about. How on earth is she taking care of him? She… hasn't been harsh on him, right?
As if I have any right to complain, I left Takeru all alone in the end.
Unable to lift my face off the street, I keep walking back home. As I got closer, I could see some lights were on. I licked my lips as my finger halted its way onto the doorbell. Looking down again, I took one deep breath. What am I even going to tell him? I can't stay for more than a week, I'll have to leave him alone again.
Even if Miho asked me to keep working… Even if Takahisa-sama says he will look after him… Is this the right thing to do?
I ring the doorbell after hesitating for another while. Soon, footsteps reach my ears. The door opens to reveal a young woman with turquoise eyes, like those of the Colonel, dressed in a simple crimson and white dress.
"Good evening. I suppose you would be Kageyuki Shirogane-san?"
"Ah, yes. That's me. Um… You're Col. Tsukuyomi's daughter, right?"
"Yes, that is the case." The woman then did a short bow towards me. "My name is Maya Tsukuyomi. I have been entrusted with the duty of looking after your son. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
"Yes, it's a pleasure. So, uh, is Takeru-"
"Please, do come in. I was preparing dinner, it will be done soon." She stepped to a side, making way for me to enter.
I bow to her and come in, taking my shoes off at the entrance. A strong scent reaches my nose as I walk into the kitchen. I don't know what she's making but it smells good.
"So… Tsukuyomi-san, where is Takeru?"
"Maya-san will suffice, Kageyuki-san."
"No, you're a noble. I can't use your name, and you don't have to address me so formally either." I say scratching my head as I give her a small bow.
"Please, I am working for you as of now. There is no need to show such stiffness in your words."
"Um… Are you testing me, maybe?"
"Testing you?" She looked straight at me as she tapped her glasses.
"Yes, your father did something similar to this when I had just arrived to the Guard." Once I relaxed and spoke in my usual way he rebuked me and told me I wasn't fit to be one of them.
"Do forgive me, but I am not my father." Despite not using the same words, her stare is as imposing as his though. "Furthermore, I am already acquainted to Takeru's speech mannerisms by now. I sincerely doubt you could be worse."
"…I see. How has he been? Where is he?"
"Oh, he should be upstairs. I shall be finishing dinner, please feel free to go to him. He has missed you much in these months." She doesn't seem to be a bad person… But I can't tell what she thinks behind that poker face.
"Alright, I'll be going. And… Uuh… Thanks for looking after him, Tsukuyomi-san. I really appreciate it."
"Sigh… No thanks are needed, I am merely performing the duty that was entrusted to me. And as I said, Maya-san will suffice."
"Okay?" I didn't think she would be so frontal. "So, he's upstairs in his room?"
"Yes, we can talk at large after dinner. In the meantime, please do go to Takeru's side." She gave me another small bow then turned around and went to the kitchen.
She… doesn't seem to mind being here as much as I thought she would. Or maybe she's just being polite. I leave my bag on a chair and go up the stairs. Going to his room, feeling my heart pounding against my chest, I manage to grab the doorknob and open the door.
"Takeru?" I slowly enter the room.
…And I'm met with nothing.
He isn't here. His bed is neatly done, so I can tell he isn't under the sheets. The room isn't so big to give him a hiding place. I look under his bed, but he also isn't there and he also isn't hidden in his wardrobe. And if he was hiding for whatever reason, he would have… come to greet me.
…Takeru isn't here.
My heart starts beating faster, now for a different reason. Entering into alert mode as if I had just heard the 991 Alarm, I rush down the stairs into the kitchen.
"Tsukuyomi-san, what is the meaning of this?!"
"Eh? Excuse me, whatever is the matter?"
"Don't play dumb! Where is Takeru?!"
"As I said, he's in his-"
"He isn't there. His room was empty!" And he would have heard me coming home if he was in the bathroom.
"Huh? What do you mean?" She moved away from the pots, narrowing her brows.
"You heard me. Takeru isn't on his room. Where is he?"
"He isn't in… For the Holy Emperor, don't tell me he…" Tsukuyomi rushed past me as she frowned.
I followed her and we wound up on the door that leaded to the backyard. It was unlocked, but she closed it immediately. She sighed and seemed to be rubbing her forehead.
"Takeru, why you… How could I forget to lock the door?"
"Tsukuyomi-san, where is Takeru? What is the-"
"Please rest assured, Kageyuki-san." She turned around and tapped her glasses, still frowning. "Whenever this happens, it means Takeru went to the Kagami's house. Forgive me, when I received a call that you would be coming home I was in the middle of picking up the laundry. I seem to have forgotten to lock the door." She gave me a bow, hands joined as she did.
"…Why? Why does Takeru runs off to Haruna-san's house? Is he not pleased to be here?" Takeru never ran away while Miho was here. Why would he… What is she doing to him?!
"Because he's bored."
"…Bored?"
"Yes, I cannot tend to him while I am cooking or working. So, from time to time, he goes to the Kagami's house to pass the time until dinner is ready after he does his homework. Though it has been a long time since he did so without me noticing." She again tapped her glasses as her tone took that severe edge the Colonel makes all the time.
"So Takeru leaves to Haruna-san's house when he's bored? Have you not scolded him when he does it?"
"Of course I have, but I believe you would know how stubborn he is." Well, yeah. Takeru can be very hard to deal with when an idea gets in his head. "I will not complain about your reaction, considering how you must worry for him. That being said, I find your scowl and words towards me most insulting." She took a step forward, folding her arms. "I have been taking proper care of Takeru. I would like you to know that his grades have improved much since I have been supervising his lessons. You do not need to doubt me so, I know Father can be most abrasive even when unnecessary, however I am not such a hostile person. Your son is in good hands, you can place your trust in me."
"…Sorry, I shouldn't have screamed at you." Not when she's the one taking care of him and I'm the one who's never around. I hang my head, sighing the tension out.
"No apologies are needed. Please do go bring him here. I shall-"
"Can I ask you something, Tsukuyomi-san?"
"…Yes, you can. However, I believe I said you could simply refer to me as Maya-san." I ignore her complaining and exhale loudly, scratching my nose.
"Why did you accept?"
"Accept what?"
"Taking care of my son. I know many nobles dislike us commoners, I know this task must be something like a punishment for someone of your station. Why did you stay with Takeru?"
Both Tsukuyomis in the Guard are nothing short of the stereotype of the old prideful and stoic men. Being the daughter of one of them, having been raised as the member of a Shinpan House… What reason could she have to stay here? What did Takahisa-sama do to have her accept the orders and to stay here for so long?
She closes her eyes and remains silently standing there for a while. Barely opening them, she takes her glasses off to rub her eyes and brush some hair out of her face. Once she put them on again, she directs a calmer gaze my way.
"At first, I was most upset at this turn of events. To be frank, had Yohime-sama not been the one to give me the order I would have refused to be the caretaker of your son." She then brings a hand to her ear, playing with her hair. "However, in my stay here I learned many valuable lessons. I know my Father and Uncle have most assuredly been harsh to you due to your roots, however I realized there is no need to show such hostilities to my peasant fellows. Your son… was most kind to me when I was feeling dejected at this task I was made to perform."
"Takeru? What did he do?"
"He… praised me and remained by my side." Why did she stop for a second there? "Your son is a very kind person, and even if his manners do leave much to be desired I do not regret staying here. He also has aided my own sister on his visits to the Main House."
"Talking about that, why are you two going there?"
"Oh, Takeru said he wanted to learn kendo so he practices there on the weekends. I believe you had left him a wooden blade for that purpose?"
"…Ah, that's true." After Miho died I completely forgot about that present we gave him. "So… So you're getting along with him?"
"Yes, to the point that he refers to me as his sister."
"Huh?! Really? Sorry, he's just a kid. Takeru doesn't-" She extends a hand, her expression relaxed.
"It is alright. Again, I am not troubled by his usual demeanor. You can trust in me keeping him safe while you work, Kageyuki-san."
"So… Until when will you stay with him?" She suddenly furrowed her brows.
"I was assigned as Takeru's retainer, therefore I shall stay with him until the day you finish serving in the Guard. For that reason I was given a computer and a secure connection to aid my fellows in their work back at the Main House while Takeru is at school. And while I do not intend to boast, I believe him to be comfortable with me as his caretaker. Has someone suggested the idea of replacing me, by any chance?" She took a step forward, not letting go of my gaze as if she were an angry crab.
"No, no one did. I just… assumed you would want to return to your duties in the Guard."
"Well, I can still do some of them while I am here. Worry not, your son is in good hands." She's being honest, since she got really pissed off at my last words. So she really… is taking care of Takeru well.
"I see… Thanks… Thanks, Tsukuyomi-san."
"Please, Maya-san is enough."
"No, I'm… really thankful to you. Sorry for having screamed at you."
"It is alright. Please go for Takeru." I nod at her and go to the door.
She really is very patient. Sigh… What an idiot I am, screaming like that. She even said she's willing to stay here with him until I can finish my active duties on the Guard, whenever that is. And… I don't feel that rejection her father has in his words from hers.
Going back to the street, I reach the Kagami's door and ring the doorbell. Just a moment later, Haruna-san opened the door.
"Kageyuki-san?! I didn't knew you were home!"
"Good evening, Haruna-san. I just arrived. I was told Takeru might be here?"
"Oh! Yes, he's in the living room reading with Sumika."
"Does he come here frequently?"
"Haha, yes, he does. He says reading by himself isn't fun and so he comes to be with Sumika all the time." She says with the same sunshine she always has on her face. I am so lucky to have found such good people to look after him.
"I see. Thanks a lot for having so much patience for him."
"No, on the contrary, it's a great help to have him come visit. Come on in, please."
I enter her house, it hasn't changed at all since I last was here. Looking into the place, I saw the two little ones sitting on the small sofa that was near a wall.
"Takeru-chan, how come the granny survived being inside the wolf?" Sumika asked him as she leaned on his shoulder.
"How should I know that? Even the foreigners' tales are weird." He was plucking his lips at the book.
It seems that they were reading Crimson Raiding Hood. I simply stood by the doorway into the living room watching him as he read the book out loud as Sumika kept making questions about it. Once he finished it, he looked up from the pages. And our eyes met.
"Hey, Takeru."
"Dad!" He dropped the book and came rushing to my side. "Welcome back!" I crouched and gave him a hug as he got to my side.
"How have you been, Takeru?" I ruffled his hair as I took a good look at him. He seems healthy, has no bruises on him, sounds as fine and energetic as always.
"I'm fine, don't worry."
"So, what were you doing here?"
"I came to read with Sumika. It's boring waiting alone until Maya-nee finishes dinner."
"Maya-nee? Takeru, does Tsukuyomi-san let you call her like that?"
"Yeah, she said it's fine. Why?"
"…Nothing, don't worry. So, were you having fun with Sumika?" He smiles widely as he nods.
"Yeah, she always reads with me at night. Though…" His brows lowered a bit. "All these tales are really weird. Dad, how did the granny survive being inside the wolf if he ate her?" Sumika also came close, wanting to hear my answer.
"Huh… That's because… The wolf didn't eat her, he swallowed her."
"Isn't it the same?"
"No, to eat something you have to chew it. If you don't, then it doesn't count." I laugh as their widening eyes, how much did I miss fooling around with you.
"So… If I eat some fruit and I don't chew it, what happens?"
"A tree is gonna grow on your belly. So, you better start chewing your food, Takeru." I ruffle his hair as he raises his brows in surprise. "Well, dinner should be done in a short while. Let's go home, Takeru."
"Yeah, let's go home." He grabbed onto my arm, a smile plastered on his face. "Well, we'll keep reading more tomorrow Sumika." He then went to Sumika's side and gave her a tight hug.
"Yes… See you tomorrow, Takeru-chan." He nodded and ended the hug.
"Thanks for reading with him all the time, Sumika." I went to her side and ruffled her hair. She giggled as I did.
"No, it's really fun. But all the tales are really weird." Takeru nods to her words.
"Haha, they are old tales after all. Well, we should be going. Thanks again, Sumika." She smiles and follows us as we made our way to the door.
"See you tomorrow, Haruna-san." Takeru said once we got outside.
"Yes, see you tomorrow."
"Thanks for looking out for him all this time." I give her a small bow, she sighs and then smiles at me.
"It's not a problem. It helps a lot to have him visit. Right, Sumika?"
"…Yes." The little one nodded, her eyes on the ground in embarrassment.
"Well, we should be going. Thanks again, and see you tomorrow."
I give her a small bow, Takeru waved at them as both of them did while we walked to our house, before then closing the door.
"So, do you come visit them often?"
"Yeah! Reading alone is boring, so once I do my homework I go to read with Sumika." He says, all smiles in him.
"I see… That's good to hear."
"Hey, Dad…"
"What's up?"
"Did Mom come back home too?"
"…Not yet. Let's be a bit more patient with Mom, okay Takeru?"
"…Yes. Are you going back to the samurai tomorrow?"
"No, I'm staying home for a week this time."
"Really?!"
"Yes, so we'll get to read together all the books you want." He then hugged my arm again.
"Thanks, Dad. Oh, but tomorrow I gotta go train. Will you come with me?"
I open the door and bring us both inside, after closing I look at him again.
"Takeru, what do you mean by training?"
"Hm? Maya-nee takes me to train with Mion and Shion. And I visit Yuuhi while I'm there too."
"But… What the… Takeru, since when have you been doing this?"
"Um…" He folds his arms and looks up, furrowing his brows as he groans a bit. "The first time we went was in March, I think."
Why did nobody told me of this? And more importantly…
"Takeru, when you say Yuuhi, do you mean Yohime-sama's daughter?"
"Yeah, we're really good friends." He smiles again as he nods.
"…And Mion and Shion are… the little sisters of the Tsukuyomi, right?"
"Yeah, that's right. The Pickles are also my friends."
"…Pickles?"
"Don't they look like pickles? Their hair is all green, and they're always so bitter… At first they didn't really like me, they were making this really scary face all the time, so I thought they were like those pickles Maya-nee made me eat once." He says as he puffs his cheeks.
As we go into the kitchen and sit, I think about what he just told me. It seems he's been made to interact with the young nobles, and nobody told me a thing about it. Why? Knowing how both Tsukuyomi brother think, I can't see them agreeing to this.
"And do they treat you badly now?"
"No, not anymore. Well, Shion sometimes does. She gets really angry from time to time when she doesn't do something as she wants. I don't get it, she's so good but she still gets so mad about stuff. She's such a dumb pickle." Takeru says puffing his chest.
Tsukuyomi-san was carrying some plates when we got to the kitchen, and so I helped her serve dinner while Takeru told me of his trainings. Of how he's starting to get better at shogi but still is learning the basics of kendo, of how he and Shion are evenly matched in juggling, of how he and Mion are reading together that book of pirates he didn't want to read back then. Tsukuyomi-san sent a glare at Takeru as she served him his food when he again called the young ones pickles.
"Takeru, I told you to not call them in that way. It is rude to refer to Shion and Mion in such a way."
"But they're always so bitter…"
"Tsukuyomi-san, why has Takeru been meeting your relatives?"
"Well, Takeru told Yohime-sama he wanted to learn to use a blade and she allowed him to go train in our dojo during the weekends."
"I see…" Is that really all there is to this? It can't be, why would they allow a normal boy to be so close to them? "And what about Yuuhi-sama? He said they're friends…" Tsukuyomi-san sighs as she shakes her head slightly.
"Yes, that is the case. Takeru approached her as he usually does when they met and she seems to have taken an interest in him. I believe they get along well as of now. He gave her a spinning top as a present, and since their birthday is on the same date, they promised to share their birthdays from now on."
"Wait, what? I… Wait, so you're telling me Yohime-sama and Takahisa-sama are okay with this?"
"…Were you not told of this, Kageyuki-san?"
"No, not a word. I mean… How did he even manage to get in her good side?"I look at Takeru, who didn't wait for us to sit down to start devouring his food.
"Well, Takeru can be very kind when he wants to. As nobles, Yuuhi-sama, my sister and younger cousin did not know what… friendship was."
"How do you mean? Why would they allow a commoner to be so close to her?" Just to be friends? That… doesn't sound convincing at all.
"…As I said, Yuuhi-sama was truly happy when they met, and albeit they didn't welcome his presence at first, both my sister and younger cousin seem to be growing to favor Takeru as well."
"…So, can you tell me how it happened?" She nods, once we both sit down.
She then tells me of how she saw their exchanges as we ate. Of how Yuuhi-sama was overjoyed to have a friend, of how her sister disliked Takeru at first and of how she's slowly warming up to him as they go visit them and play with the toys and books Takeru takes with him, of how her younger cousin started talking more and regained her smile thanks to Takeru helping her realize how good she actually was when practicing together and by simply wanting to read and have fun with her.
"He actually noticed how much time Shion takes before moving back during his very first practice against her. Then, he told Mion of it and thanks to that their duels are more even now. And thanks to his open friendliness, Mion is no longer as silent and stiff as she was. She even seems to have developed a sweet tooth thanks to him." Tsukuyomi-san said as we ate.
"A sweet tooth? How so?"
"That's because I told them to have cake and Mion ate it all herself once." Takeru said in a pouty voice before continuing to eat at his rice.
"…Cake? Did they have a birthday party?" She then sighs as she nods.
"Yes, Takeru suggested them to hold parties for their birthdays, which were around a month apart from each other. Mion enjoyed sharing cake with Takeru and Shion during the latter's birthday as they read one of those books about pirates, which was how Shion began to find him entertaining. So, when her birthday grew closer, Mion asked my older cousin to have cake as well. Her sister then baked her one that she liked much, and then proceeded to eat most of it herself." Furrowing her brows, tapping her glasses, she sighs again. "Despite my Father and Uncle's repining at the time, Mion said she had much fun that day, and she smiled as she hadn't in a long time. Sadly, since then she seems to look forward to eating sweet food, and my cousin has told me she has come down with a stomach ache a few times."
"…So Takeru was a bad influence for them, huh."
"No, on the contrary." She again taps her glasses, then looks at him softening her gaze. "Thanks to him, my younger cousin and sister are getting along much better than before. While Shion is still rather rude around Takeru, he isn't a bad influence at all. They needed a friend to relax around from all the pressure of our training as Royal Guards, and he also seems to enjoy his time in the Main House."
"Takeru, do you like going there?"
"Yeah! It's really fun. One of these days we're gonna beat Shion at something." He rose a little fist up, puffing his cheeks again.
I smile and laugh at his reaction. So he's a friend of them… I let out some air, my shoulders relaxing a bit as I let go of the ball of nerves that was making my heart race in worry. If he's this happy about it, it means he isn't being treated badly. We kept eating as Takeru told me of his trainings and Tsukuyomi-san commented on his words. Once we were done, I took him to his room.
"So, you really practice with them every weekend?" I ask Takeru as we go up the stairs.
"Yeah, but I still can't win. They might be girls, but the Pickles are really strong. Did you also have to train like that to be a samurai, Dad?"
"Well, yeah." I was put under Col. Kazora's care for my kendo lessons when my induction was approved. My arms and rear are crying all over again simply by remembering those days, at times it felt as if he would end up slashing me in half to be honest. "It was really hard, so I can understand how you feel perfectly." He never held back, not even once. It was like diving into a sea of fire, entering the dojo. "By the way, nobody treats you badly when you go to the Main House?"
"Hmm… They Pickles' Dads don't really like me." He plucks his lips as we get to his room's door. "They always have these scary eyes on their face, like they're always angry at something. The other samurais there also look at me kinda scary."
"I see… But they're not bad with you?"
"They don't really talk with me, and don't answer when I greet them. There's also the old woman that's always with Yuuhi, she also doesn't talk with me. But nobody is being mean like back in the other school." He then smiles, which means I can rest easy.
I will have to ask about what's going on here, though. They wouldn't… be planning to have him join the Guard as well, right? What reason could a Regent House have to let a simple boy like Takeru be so close to their heirs? They're always so detached from the rest of us, the common folk only ever gets to see them in the news or in some odd announcement.
I help Takeru to get in his pajama, sitting by the side of his bed once he gets under his sheets. I breathe in, softly ruffling his hair for a moment. All the aching I was feeling vanished for a moment, because he's alright. Alert mode finally turned off, I simply smiled naturally at him.
"Dad, can you read me a story?"
"Sure. By the way, does Tsukuyomi-san read you something before bed?" He pouts, looking a bit away.
"…Only if I'm good."
"Hahaha… Do you really like her, Takeru?"
"Yeah, she can be scary sometimes, but Maya-nee is really nice." And again, he smiles without delay.
"I see… That's good to hear. Really… That's good. So, what would you like me to read you?"
"Hmm… Oh, what about Banzel and Kretel? I haven't read that one yet."
"Lemme see… This one?" I went to the rack with the books, picking up a foreign tale. "I didn't knew you liked these tales."
"Me and Sumika wanted to see if they were also as weird as our tales. But I still don't get most of them…"
"Hm? Are they hard to read?"
"No, they're really weird." He raises a hand, then makes it a tiny fist.
He then told me of what he thought about Heater Pan, Crimson Hood, Liger in Boots, Binocchio, and all the other books he and Sumika have been reading, for school or just for fun. The, he complained about how Sumika doesn't like scary stories.
"So, there's a part where Binocchio gets ambushed by these two mean thieves… So, when we got to it, Sumika screamed when she saw them attacking Binocchio."
"Are they that scary?"
"Well… N-No." He looked away, so he's trying to play tough. You silly, little Takeru. "But they were all dark because they had these long, black capes covering their faces and it was raining, so the sky was all dark too in the drawing. I… wasn't that scared, but Sumika didn't like them at all, so we stopped reading then because she started complaining. So when I went to visit her the next day to keep reading, she had scribbled all over those pages!"
"Eh?! Really?"
"Yeah, she just grabbed a bunch of pencils and scribbled them over, and when I tried to read them she just passed them in a flash. We don't need to read this part, she said." He pouts, crossing his arms.
"What did Haruna-san said then?"
"She started laughing at us! I asked her for help, because Sumika wasn't letting me read, and she just laughed for a while."
I would have laughed at that too, I bet seeing Sumika doing that was too precious for her, considering what she told me before. She simply must have been delighted. I wish I could have been there to see you two quarrel about that.
"Well, don't worry. So, does this book have the scribbles?"
"No, that was Sumika's book. I asked Maya-nee to buy me this one so that I could read it all. She had me pass a history test with a good grade, though."
"So you're also doing well in school?"
"Yeah. Maya-nee is really strict about homework."
"And… you're not getting into more fights?"
"…Sometimes I do. Especially with that dumb Jouji."
"Is he mean to you?"
"Well… He's kind of a jerk." Furrowing his brows, again he pouts. "He thinks he's so great because he's good in baseball, and is always being so loud. He's not bad but… I dunno why he keeps bothering me."
He then tells me this Jouji usually competes with him to see who gets the better grades or does things better in PE, and that he's always trying to convince Sumika that he's better. However, when I asked if he was also being mean to Jouji, he admitted he also poked fun at the boy whenever his scores were higher.
"Maybe he's just trying to be your friend, in his own way. Don't be mean to him, Takeru."
"Really? But, why is he always asking Sumika who she thinks is better?"
"Beats me, maybe he just wants to be friends with both of you?"
"Hmm… I dunno, he's so dumb if that's true. Why can't he just say he wants to play with us?"
"He might be shy, you never know. But remember Takeru, you don't have to punch anyone, no matter what they say." It would be troublesome if he did that in the Main House, and it's time for him to stop reacting like that too. Now that Miho is gone, I have to be more strict with him too. "If you get in trouble, I'll get angry at you."
"Okay… I'll try to not get into fights anymore. But then there's these girls, and they're really mean to Sumika."
"Oh, so you're defending her?"
"Yeah, since she starts crying on the way back home sometimes. I hate those dumb girls. Jouji also hates them, they're so mean."
"Sigh… Still, no fighting." I ruffle his hair softly, I can't blame him after all. It's what I did for Koetsu all those years ago. Until Dad reprimanded me for harming someone. "Can you promise me you'll be good?"
"…Yes. So… Will you be coming home more often?"
"…I don't know. I have a lot of work to do, but I'll see what I can do. Well, should we start?" I open the book, sitting by the side of his bed.
"Thanks, Dad." He got closer, giving me a kiss on the cheek before I started, making my eyes almost let out a few tears for a second there. Back on his pillow, he stared at me as he waited.
And so, I read him the book. I did so slowly, both to prolong this moment for as long as I could and to help him fall asleep. I enjoyed his stare on me, and his surprise at things he had forgotten. Once I saw him start to nod off, I lowered my voice, getting closer to him.
Once he fell asleep, I remained by his side brushing his hair off his forehead. Again simply lying by his side, our forehead touching, I closed my eyes and again let the minutes tickle away. A certain pleasant numbness spreading through me, I don't know how much time it passed until I mustered enough willpower to stand up.
Kissing his cheek once softly, delaying my exit for some seconds to whisper good nights into his ear, I left Takeru's side. I also left the shadows that had been following me all this time. No longer walking with strong steps, no longer with a pressure in my chest, my breathing calm and relaxed, I descended the stairs.
"Is he asleep now?"
"Yes. Thanks again, Tsukuyomi-san. For everything you've done." I give her a bow, remaining down for a second.
"…There is no need. I am merely doing what is expected of me."
"So, now that he's sound asleep…" I sit down on a chair, she sits in front of me. "What can you tell me of these visits to the Main House?"
"There isn't much more to say. He insisted on coming with me when I was called back for my report, and since I had promised to give him some basic sword training when I found him using that sword, Yohime-sama allowed him to go there each weekend."
"And why is that? Why was I not told of this?"
"I do not know. However, all I said is true. Me and my older cousin believe both Yuuhi-sama and our sisters needed a friend, a confidant if you may. Takeru simply was his usual self when around them."
"I see… And what about both Colonels? I doubt the other members of the Main House enjoy seeing him there, to be honest."
"While that is true… Our lord gave him his blessing, so you can rest easy for nothing shall happen to Takeru while he's there. I shall make sure of it." Tapping her glasses, she returns a straight gaze my way.
"Sigh… Thanks, really. So, well, forgive the question but… Nobody is planning on inducting him into the Royal Guard, right?"
"Perish the thought, Kageyuki-san." Her eyes grew piercing, her voice imposing as her father's. "I myself am against such an arrangement, and furthermore, Yohime-sama herself said she harbors no such intentions. Worry not, no one is going to force Takeru to join the Guard."
"Sigh… Sorry for asking."
"It is fine, and understandable. If I may, might I ask a personal question to you?" She said, tapping her glasses. I nod, resting an arm on the table. "Does Takeru know of his mother's passing?"
"…No, I couldn't bring myself to tell him what death means. Why do you ask?"
"He once… asked me not to leave him. He seemed to think you also had left somewhere and weren't coming back." Her gaze lowers, I can't even begin to guess what she's thinking about.
"I see. Could you… well, try to explain it to him if you find the right moment? I… I don't… know if I…" Again, a knot forms on my throat.
"It is alright. I shall find a way to deal with this matter." She said, in a business-like manner.
"Thanks, Tsukuyomi-san. And sorry for pushing this on your shoulders."
"No thanks are needed, I am merely performing my duty. Also, I told you Maya-san was fine." She narrows her eyes just a bit. I suppose she isn't testing me, so I could call her that, if it bothers her that much.
"Okay, thanks again Maya-san. Well, about these trainings… If not to join the Guard, what was the reason behind this?"
"As I said before, Yohime-sama said she merely wished for Takeru to be a friend to Yuuhi-sama, my sister and younger cousin. To be someone they can consult in the future. Since they don't interact with people outside of their circles, Takeru is the only one who can show them how it is the life of the peasantry. And he said he wanted to learn to use a sword to see you once more, so Yohime-sama simply allowed him to train there during our visits."
So Yohime-sama is as random as Takahisa-sama, huh? Are they really… just being kind to Takeru? No, why would they? Why him instead of any other kid, from those around Osaka even? I'm sure it must be hard to have him visit from so far away, would be really bad if someone came asking why was a commoner coming and going to the Koubuin Main House.
"But, why him? Why not another kid from the nearby area of the Main House?"
"I believe I said so already. Takeru was friendly with Yuuhi-sama instead of growing tense as others tend to do."
"…Just that?"
"It is no small feat, actually. Never trying to gain favors or ask for anything in return more than some time to play, honestly enjoying himself in their company while treating them normally, and coming from a family who we know has been loyal to our House, I doubt there are many young children who would act as your son does. Either they would grow respectful or… well, their families might try to gain a benefit out of the interaction."
"…Well, but now you're here taking care of him… You can't say I don't gain anything by this."
"Yet, this arrangement was a reward our lord Takahisa-sama gave you for your devoted service. Were you… wishing to ask for anything else?" Narrowing her eyes, I sigh as I shake my head.
"Of course not. I just… don't get it. I'm just a soldier, and Takeru's just being himself. Why would they let him be there?"
"Is it so hard to accept they see a good, honest fellow in both of you?"
"And just for that… they allow a commoner to be around the heir of a Regent House?"
"Well…" One of her brows lowers. "While I was told your services are much appreciated, and at first I also saw this as you do, I do believe it is doing good for all four of them. Perhaps that is why Takahisa-sama has given his agreement for this visits to continue. And to reiterate, I myself voiced my opposition to use this dream of his to induct him, so you can rest assured Kageyuki-san. Takeru won't be forced to join the Guard, not while I'm his retainer."
Her tone was strong enough to tumble down a TSF, her eyes had that piercing feel just like the Colonel's. She is being honest. Again, I let out a long sigh. Alongside it, the toxic thoughts that clogged my mind also left my insides. He's in good hands… Thank the Holy Emperor, he's in good hands.
"…So, I have one final question for today."
"What is it?"
"Were you told of what would happen to Takeru if I died during my duty?"
"…No, I was not. I suppose he would be sent to an orphanage."
"…I see."
Of course, they're already doing more than enough. Sending one of the Tsukuyomi here, letting Takeru go to the Main House… I am relieved beyond words to see he's in good hands. For now, that will be enough.
"Then, could I go with you to the Main House tomorrow? I would like to clear some of this stuff with Takahisa-sama or Yohime-sama if they have the time."
"Hmm… I don't see why not. We usually depart as soon as he comes back from school, would that alright?"
"Yeah, don't worry. And thanks again for everything, Maya-san."
"Please, it is alright. Did you need anything else of me?"
"Yeah, I was wondering if… you could tell me of how he's been all these months. I know you must be tired… But…"
"It is no problem. Now then… Where should I begin?" She brought a hand to her chin, moving her head as if she were nodding off. "Oh, I suppose I should start with our first week together. You see, Takeru gave me much trouble when he didn't want to do his homework. At the time, he-"