Muv-Luv Reversal

by Zuoriel

Takeru has been leading a normal life until now. During the summer vacation of his second year in college he's invited by his high school friends to meet up again, to which he agrees. Shirogane doesn't know that this decision would release the nightmares that have been haunting him for some time, nightmares that would be better left forgotten.

57. My Beloved Brother

A majestic King without kingdom steps on the flower offerings on the royal road as he weeps

The sky that we still doubt it's real is filled with fire

The fire of suspicion is… the fire is…

Embracing each other, having endured the darkest hours side by side, the crowd sang praises in honor to the brave hero

The kingdom that we still doubt it's real is filled with fire

The fire of misery is… the fire is…

Come on, come on, now… Don't take your eyes off this show… This show!

Oh, fire! Why would my people be running, rushing?

Oh, fire! I cannot recall the reason why…

Oh, fire! Why would my people be burning, broiling?

Oh, fire! I cannot recall the reason why…

The ashen gray fittingly rains down on me

Why would these flowers still be blooming?

The field that we still doubt it's real is filled with fire

The fire of torment is… the fire is…

Come on, come on, now… Don't take your eyes off this show… This show!

Oh, fire! Why would my people be suffocating, asphyxiating?

Oh, fire! I cannot recall the reason why…

Oh, fire! Why would my people be rotting, decaying?

Oh, fire! I cannot recall the reason why…

---

Royal Road Paradise, by Susumu Hirasawa.

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4th Arc: Paranoia

Chapter 57: My Beloved Brother

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1999. On a stormy night of January.

(Tokyo. Imperial Palace. Audience Room.)

[Yuuhi]

---

Incessant rain comes down harshly onto our windows, which waver and quiver, rattle and shiver. From beyond their frames, lighting dances under the hailing skies, its bright rebellion seeping into the large room through the curtains, through the drenched glass.

When so happens, the shadows of the pillars enlarge, the farther end of this place becomes visible for a speck of a second, before all falls into the quiet lukewarm yellow lights that illuminate this audience room, surrounded by a soft veil of incense.

As one such thunder reverberated outside, as I had to restrain an urge to shiver or betray my posture as the temperature decidedly began to descend, the guest that had come to my presence shook his head, looking towards me and Mana, who stood nearby in protection as always.

"I am loath to admit, yet you are asking the impossible out of us, Your Highness," 2nd Lt. Sukerokuro Makabe thus tells, kneeling on the floor as a coiled fist rests on it as well, keeping a most cool tone in contrast to the weather, "We certainly cannot share any further supplies with the MDF, and to subtract any more troops from our front would place the defense lines in jeopardy. Please, I beg you to reconsider," Then, he bows down deeply.

"Is that so… Be as it may, the 24th Regiment is in dire need of reinforcements," Enduring the dryness in my throat, mustering an amicable tone, a small smile is all I can spare for him, "Is there truly no way in which Ikaruga-dono could relinquish at least an artillery battalion?"

"My apologies, Your Highness," He shakes his head, gaze unmoving from the ground, "As I said, we cannot spare any more troops. On the contrary, I would suggest you to reinforce our Horn battalion. Were the BETA begin to push forward from Yokohama-"

"Silence!" Mana so shouts, far more adusted than she should be, "The measures taken by Her Highness are crafted by Great General Daizaburou himself. What manner of complains would you raise against them, Makabe?"

Lifting his face, a somber, most inquisitive grin greets us, "Do I have to remind you I am speaking in the name of the Head of the Ikaruga House, Takatsugu-sama himself? Furthermore, Maya has also signed her agreement to any and all petitions I forward, as the document I gave you a moment ago tells, Mana," Still smiling upon her groans, he once more gazes my way, a subtle bow afterwards, "I was under the impression our Houses had agreed to work in unison since a few months back, however, I apologize if my words were inappropriate to your ears Your Highness, milady."

Mana's face contorted, crackled as the windows under the night's gale upon hearing his last word, a gaze from me subdued her impulse on time. Taking a step back, she limits herself to listen for the moment.

"I have not taken offense. I relinquished authority in the field to Ikaruga-dono after all, due to his exploits in Kyoto's last moments. And it is because of such reasons that I desire his aid to reinforce our defense lines."

Never losing the smile, he again looks up my way, "However, were we to relocate our men as you command, more supply routes would need to be procured, devised, and defended. If you allowed Takatsugu-sama to manage the food distribution in our area of operations, as well as partial command over the 24th regiment, I could try to make a convincing enough appeal to grant your wishes."

"What insolence!" Mana once more steps forward, this time truly angered, "Her Highness has already given ample freedom to all other Regent Houses, yet you dare demand further dominion over the chain of command?!"

Yet, he then brandished a solemn expression, glaring at Mana, "Would you rather have the Empire's resources be managed by the feeble Diet government? Those who continue to parley with the UN after how they abandoned Yokohama? As a fellow Shinpan, I was under the impression you also favored Her Highness taking command of her rightful forces, as Maya does too."

"Allow me to remind you, Her Highness has given her blessing to Sakaki's cabinet. You'd be well served in remembering that while in her presence," Their stares clash in imitation of today's tempest, yet again my throat dries up as Mana refuses to ease her stance, "So, what you're getting at is, your faction refuses to comply with the directives issued by Her Highness?"

His brows narrow, quietly replying, "Nonsense. I am merely forwarding an alternative to the plan that has been given to us. Her Highness has the final say in the matter after all, regardless of who crafts the documents she is presented with. You certainly wouldn't be saying that the dim ink on such frail papers holds more weight than the word of our Lady Shogun?"

"Speak no further balderdash, Makabe!" Mana takes yet another step forward, further animosity welling up, "Her Highness has already expressed her wishes, to collaborate with both the UN and the Diet on this darkest hour that befell us. Therefore, your answer to our request…"

"…I already expressed it. Your Highness, could you kindly consider bestowing us full control over the food distribution?"

"How dare-"

"Mana," A glance her way elicited a bow, she once more returned to my side. Taking a second, I look back at him, forcing a tender tone, "2nd Lt. Makabe, while I would be willing to negotiate such terms with the Regency Council, I believe that having you forward the proposal on your own is rather precarious. For the sake of conversation, if I were to give my agreement, what would be of the civilian camps under your care?"

"If you'd allow us, we propose to halve their current supplies," He so says, immutable over what he just uttered.

Momentarily licking my lips, I slowly shake my head, "That is unacceptable. Our people cannot shoulder the burden of this war any further."

"Yet, to force our warriors to endure the strain of the war overlong while receiving mild C Rank rations shan't allow us to maintain our performance," Again bowing his head, his tone never is compromised in its stillness, "I was made aware there are certain… negotiations with the authorities of the prior Hakuryo Base going on behind curtains. In which case, it is imperative we bolster the supplies of the Royal Guard for the day when the… ahem… proposition to strike back arrives to your presence. Please, I beg you to reconsider my proposal, Your Highness, milady."

Feeling my neck stiffening further, the smallest movement spawning a searing pain from my middle back and rising to my nape, while closing my eyes for a moment I ponder his suggestion. And yet, our civilians are already enduring undeserved living conditions as it is. The thought of halving their supplies… Yet, were the defense lines to crumble, nothing would stand between them and the BETA. Were we to lose any further terrain, our negotiations with both the US and the UN will assuredly grow ever arduous. Without even considering the risk of Tokyo falling as well, that is.

I could use my acceptance towards this proposal of Makabe as a pathway to parley with Ikaruga-dono in exchange for his support, as this feeble voice is all I have now. As the Shogun, as the beacon I must be… I cannot sow further unrest. I must be a guiding light… I must remain attentive. Such is my duty… my own morals notwithstanding, I must act to safeguard my people's future, especially after all the blood that has been spilled. Then… Then I should-

"Heh… I wonder, what happened to the delivery that was made by the 20th Squadron to your forces a few days ago?" A forceful inquiry, mired by static, reverberates all over the room. His voice, coming through some distortion device.

Makabe turns around hastily, readiness in his posture. Yet, his eyes are met with emptiness. Shock widening, his sight slowly scanning the surrounding area, nothing appears out of sorts as another thunder illuminates the room, as the echoes of hail threaten to blast the windows open. Mana also begins to scan the room, softly biting her lips as she presses the comms she has on her neck to alert him, to order him to stop.

Shaking my head, sighing and seeing my breath, I also cannot ascertain where he might be. I told you to remain quiet during this meeting… Whatever are you trying to accomplish?

"Well, Makabe? Your answer is?" He thus demanded, from beyond the veil.

I look around, from the outstretched shadows of the pillars, to the tempestuous storm that's hitting the windows to the balcony, to the further depths of this audience room where no light reaches. From the furniture, to the tapestry, and our immediate surroundings. His voice doesn't come from any of such places, and yet, it feels as if it did at the same time.

Briefly glancing upwards, towards the lone chandelier, I also cannot distinguish anything odd in the ceiling's shadows. Makabe seems to be holding his breath while looking for the source of the voice, the composure he was showing moments ago wavering upon the void shadows.

"…Makabe, what of this delivery?" I ask, eyeing my surroundings with an obvious gesture, hoping he'll desist from intruding any further.

"Ah… Ahem… There is nothing to report, Your Highness. It arrived as it should have, and we are more than thankful for your support," He bows down, yet his eyes remain open and alert, a hand rested on his blade.

"I see… Then, are those supplies not sufficient to delay this talk of restructuring the food distribution for even just a month?" I ask, smiling his way in hopes of gaining an affirmation.

"Well… However, the delivery was mostly for the maintenance of our machinery. The food within was of low quality, and not as plentiful as we had hoped, which is why I-"

"An entire Type-89 Cargo Vehicle worth of synth food, courtesy of the Amato House," He interrupts again, forcing me to not display any signs in my face as my fingers ingrain into my palms, making Makabe's gaze again scour the room pointlessly.

…I wonder, just how does he remain hidden at times like this. Mana and Maya do the same from time to time, yet I can tell where they are. Was it because they allowed me to notice, then? I should never have allowed Tsuhi to train you to conceal your presence…

"Your Highness… If I may, what in blazes is going on here?" Makabe asks, quite understandably alarmed as his eyes failed to locate anything amidst the pillars and furniture further in, not even when a faint lightning shed some light into the room.

"Sigh… One retainer of mine simply does not like to appear in front of others as of late. No offense is meant, Makabe," Giving him a small smile, his tension seems to ease slightly.

"So, regarding the cargo…" He once more demands, this time endowing a more toxic tone.

"Ahem…" Makabe eyes the surrounding area again, his gaze squinting ever more as he was unable to track Takeru's whereabouts, "As I was saying, the delivery was not sufficient for our battalion and its adjacent infantry and artillery regiments. Which is why I am presenting this alternative to you, Your Highness."

As I was about to reply, Mana took a step forward, slowly, delayed, and oddly composed without raising her voice, a hand planted on the edge of her dress' neck, "Tell me, Makabe. The delivery of this cargo did reach your battalion?"

"…Yes, of course."

"You had said that… you were left fending with C Rank synth food, if I recall. However, double checking my PDA, the report here says-"

"The food delivered to the Horn battalion was of A Rank," Once more adusted, just as a bolting blasted the skies outside and violently vandalized the shadows of the pillars, the frames of the windows, he thus insisted, making Mana groan at the interruption, "Care to explain what this means, 2nd Lieutenant, sir?" Mockingly so, he finishes.

Frowning much, Makabe stands up, surveying the seemingly empty darkened area once more, "First, what we were given were C Rank supplies. Secondly, what manner of Imperial Guard are you? Show yourself!"

"Makabe, remain kneeling!" Mana demanded, "You are in the presence of Her Highness the Shogun!"

"Do not mock me, Mana. It is one thing to conceal one's presence, I could understand such reticence from a guardian of our Lady Shogun. However, to raise such accusations towards my House?" Smiling once more, looking my way, he bowed down, a hand on his chest, "I am certain Your Highness is also most aggravated by this buffoon's conduct."

Sigh… This is why I told you to not speak up during this meeting… If I press forward, our bilateral collaborations with House Ikaruga might crumble. Yet, Takeru wouldn't lie just to gain pointless animosity, much less while knowing I stand much to lose… Mana also confirmed the delivery had other contents, going by her gaze she is certain of it. And despite our disagreements of late, Raiko-san is truly loyal to me. She wouldn't send anything short of the best if I expressly requested her direct involvement.

However, where I to delve more, Makabe might blame the MDF or the inductees for this error in the delivery. After all, such tasks are left to the fresh members inducted after Kyoto fell and we had quite more defectors and traitors in our ranks than I'd like to have known since the Capital fell, even more after both hives were made.

People just looking to smuggle food for their families and friends, to steal pieces of technology and drugs to sell on the black market… With the state of our surveillance systems after the continuous attacks we suffered, there are many black spots in our security that we are still trying to mend.

Softly sighing, seeing once more my breath, my ruminating accompanied by the echoes of falling rain, my shoulders sink and sink as if I myself were under the weather's relentless downpour.

Be as it may, this state of affairs is only further proof of my failings to provide adequate shelters and supplies for our people in their time of need. As the Head I am, even if I hadn't endowed the mantle of the Shogun, I cannot truly condemn my people for being forced to fend for themselves to provide for their beloved ones due to my lacking foresight, my inadequate response to this threat.

…And as much as I abhor to consider the possibility, I am aware Ikaruga-dono might have already used this state of affairs for his convenience. However, to claim such without proof, or even with it, would be political suicide as it is. Without his support, and the Takatsukasa House that is seemingly under his wing as well, there is little the IRG will be able to do on the frontlines. To say he is lauded as a hero within our ranks and by the people is an understatement. If I take him away from the frontlines, many will raise their voices against such a decision.

…If only you had stayed quiet. What are you even trying to accomplish, Takeru?

Inhaling slowly into the smell of the incense, joining my hands, I level a stare at the one in front of me, "No one is raising accusations, Makabe. I suppose, my retainer is merely concerned at the news of these missing supplies. Can you confirm that you did not receive the A Rank synth food I had commanded to be sent towards Ikaruga-dono's forces?"

Yet, he immediately shakes his head, kneeling once more, "But of course not, Your Highness. Had that delivery arrived, we would have no issues with your current directives. But as things stand now…" Smiling once more, gazing up, "Perhaps, if it would please you, we could investigate this matter and punish the inductees that were involved in this ploy to astray your helping hand from your loyal soldiers."

Mana sighs, folding her arms, "If you were unable to detect an entire cargo having its contents swapped, how could you possibly take responsibility for this issue?"

Yet, he returns another somber smile at her, "First, it is unjust to blame the Ikaruga House for the dastardly deeds of the defectors. Our forces are as hard pressed as yours, and isn't that why our Regents are working shoulder by shoulder each day, as Maya does alongside me?"

Mana groans, perhaps not due to her own reservations towards Maya's conduct as of late… but more out of concern towards Takeru's reaction to such words. I still cannot sense anything, the shadows further in remain quiet, the quiver of the windows along the rain being the only source of sound for the moment.

Makabe continues unabated, still grinning, "Furthermore, now that I have been made aware that we were unable to detect this missing cargo, I must once more insist on the countermeasure I proposed a moment before," Once more bowing, neither this sudden questioning nor the thunders could breach his facade, it seems, "Grant my lord command over all inductees and commoners entering our area of operations, allow our trusted men to be the ones who deliver the supplies, and no such incidents will occur again. In these times, we cannot rely on commoners without a history of devoted service to the Shogunate. We of the nobility must stand united, only we truly know the horror the Empire is being made to carry after the defection of both the US and the UN."

Unable to rein myself in, before Mana could, admonishment came forth from my lips, "2nd Lt Makabe, please do mind your words. The US troops had no choice but to comply with their Congress' orders, despite the desire many harbored to remain behind. And the UN has not abandoned our nation. I believe I made my wishes quite clear to Ikaruga-dono."

Yet, he is still smiling, "Yes, milady. However, look at what sorrowful state of affairs we are in, due to believing their support to be unconditional. I am merely wishing for the IRG to be able to fulfill your every command, and is why I am insisting on these propositions. All the more now that this matter of the cargo has been brought to light," Undaunted and calm, never losing the smile.

…In the end, I have no leads to push further. It was foolish to think Makabe would slip up, and all this discussion managed to accomplish was to have him request further concessions from me.

…I suppose, I should learn to delegate what I have to. I cannot lose their support, even if I harbor doubts towards them. For the moment, keeping up appearances is of utmost importance, until an exhaustive investigation can be made and-

"By the by, 2nd Lieutenant…" Slow tone, almost as if drowning a chuckle. A shadow flickered further into the room, "My sources have told me Cpt. Shinohara was the man who received the delivery of the cargo we speak of."

One of his brows twitched, he again looked around. Upon finding nothing, his very face distressed further, "Yes, I can confirm that. As the leader of the second squadron of the battalion, he does take care of matters on the field for our Lord. What of it?"

"…Well, are you aware then that he was seen near what we've heard is a black market location as of yesterday noon?" Barely restraining a cackle, he so asked.

Along such words, a firm footstep echoed about within the stretched shadows, drowning the incessant downpour on purpose. Forceful lightning illuminates the storm, the room. Its white spectrum contrasting with the mild yellow of our inner lamps, with the placid shadows further in, another footstep echoed once more over the rain. However, his figure remains unseen by all three of us.

And yet, his voice feels closer, edging closer, "Considering the importance of the man in your ranks… Is there any intel you could share with us on this matter?"

Makabe remained looking about, before turning around and bowing to me once more, "I am afraid I know not of what this person speaks, Your Highness. I can only apologize in my lord's stead, if this intel is factually correct."

"Then, do you harbor suspicions towards this Captain as well?" I inquire, sensing a crack.

Makabe releases some air, then smiles once more, "I'd be foolish to dismiss such words coming from one of your retainers. At the very least, as the one who received the delivery, I concur he should be questioned now that the matter came to light. Please, allow us to mend our own mistakes, Your Highness," Swiftly bowing again, he remains in position.

Unbreakable defenses. Nothing we say will work, I suppose. Even if I ask Maya to be present in the questioning, nothing might turn out of it… In any case, it is foolish to press more without evidence. We should-

"Seijurou," He uttered, far closer than before.

And this time, I could barely make out the edges of his hair right behind one of the pillars as he moved through the shadows.

Makabe's eyes widened far, far beyond what should be possible. Prey to the shadows his grin vanished momentarily, as sudden as a thunder the shaking of his frame. For Makabe to waver so… What is this about, Takeru?

"We heard the young boy was seen loitering near our supply depots here, along other young heirs," He insisted, his voice drowning even how another thunder echoed in the distance, how the windows wept in supplication for the tempest to stop.

One of Makabe's hands clenched, his facade holding firmly despite the now obvious wish to turn around into a frown, to look for the source of the voice.

Mana was pressing her dress' neck, triggering her comms, to tell him to back down. Another footstep echoed, her fingers seemed to be pressing the button repeatedly in quick succession.

And yet, I know. He won't let this rest. Is it… because he noticed I was about to concede on Makabe's proposition? Do you truly have evidence, or are just letting your prejudices blind you now?

"And that is not all," Another shift in tone, turning as aggressive, as fast and oppressive as the incessant hail, more than willing to eradicate our gardens, or in his case, Makabe's facade, "The current caretaker of your youngest brother, Touko Suzumi, seems to be… working directly under Shinohara's orders as of late."

"Your Highness, could you kindly ask your retainer to show him or herself before us?" Makabe requested, barely keeping the bindings of his ire still.

"Sadly, such cannot happen," Mana countered, "For Her Highness' own security, some of us in her service must remain unseen. However… 1st Lt.! Make it short, and concise. Do remember that 2nd Lt. Makabe is our guest, and that we all are in Her Highness' presence!" She so declared, more as an act for Makabe to see.

Takeru doesn't truly care, after all. We might be in the presence of the Regency Council or the UN's HC, and he would do the same. It makes predicting his actions easier, only if his temper didn't flare up as much. Whereas I would have admonished him to desist in his pressure…

…I truly would rather not bring his silence upon my person ever again.

"Very well. My apologies if I offended you, Makabe," A neutral tone, amicable yet fake.

However, Makabe nodded to the ground, knowing better than to argue with my retainers. At the least, what soft power I hold still binds his moves were he wishing to actually scour the room for Takeru, as pointless as that would be.

Makabe's eyes close, breathing deeply, "Apology accepted. I can confirm the woman is appointed as the caretaker of my youngest brother. What of it?"

"I also was informed you were the one who appointed her to the position."

One of his brows twitches once more, "Yes, that is true. She was recommended by a good fellow, after all."

"Well then… Were you aware that… it seems she has ties to Kannagi, the former XO of the now defunct Mogami Base?"

…

"…2nd Lt. Makabe, is this true?" Unable to rein in a searing frown, I lean forward along my inquiry.

Frozen, petrified in place, it would seem Makabe was truly flabbergasted at the words. For a moment, nothing was said. The thunders roared every now and then, giving further lightning to the room, shining upon his darkening expression which now seemed to be synchronized with our wailing windows.

"…No, I was… I was not aware… the woman was in any way tied to that base," Sober, no longer grinning, he then lowered his head further and further.

"I suppose, you have been notified of the reasons behind the… cease of operations of said base?" Caressing my hair, stroking and choking strands, it does not assuage my ire.

Makabe's silence also doesn't do me any favors, the tip of my tongue pressed in between my teeth. Never lifting my eyes off him, Makabe, very hesitantly when compared to his prior demeanor, raised his face to give a nod in affirmation.

"Yes, I was told the bare minimum. I… truly did not know Suzumi had such ties with the suspect, yet, what does this have to-"

And once more, fire over the rain, "Surely you can make an educated guess on what this entails. The woman was seen near the depots when the cargo vehicles were departing, supposedly because she allowed the trainees in her care to, oh so conveniently, volunteer to aid in the duty of loading the supplies," He then allowed the rain to resonate in the room, silence as a few footsteps echoed every so and so.

As he spoke it felt as if he were breathing down my nape, I might as well be one of our windows at the moment. And yet, I can only share his voice's hailing anger, barely restraining a frown as I continue to stare at Makabe's composed countenance.

As our guest chose to remain silent for too many seconds, another forceful footstep echoed, "I suppose I do not need to say where my suspicions are headed, do I now 2nd Lt. Makabe, sir?"

Mana once more stepped forward, displeased much, "1st Lieutenant, mind your conduct! Your actions reflect the will of Her Highness, after all."

"Then, would you rather have me not warn our fellow Makabe? Surely, he must not have been aware of such events, and it is why he remains silent. I'd be shocked myself to learn such things," Then, as he tends to do as of late, a soft, almost drowned cackling echoed for a few seconds, "It would be truly a disaster if anything were to happen to his youngest brother, for the young boy to meet an end similar to the one that sorrowfully befell Seiichiro-sama. Isn't that right, 2nd Lieutenant, sir?"

Makabe's expression darkens further, despite the shine from a thunderbolt seeping into his complexion. Jaws tightening as if under fire, a slight and almost imperceptible shivering on his hands, all traces of his rather cheery demeanor crumbled to ashes.

Sigh… Vindictive and inflexible as Takeru's been as of late, nothing we might say would assuage his anger at this point. If the woman looking after Makabe's youngest brother could be connected in any way or form to the affairs that took place in Mogami, even if she is free of guilt, few are the words that could dissuade him from chasing after her.

Considering all I know, it is best to fold this discussion for the day. Otherwise, if he dislikes Makabe's response… I'd wish to be as naive to think Takeru wouldn't be as foolish as to also chase after them, yet, he is being most inflexible regarding who he believes was behind Seiichiro-dono's passing.

Thus, breathing a slow sigh, shivering slightly, into the shadows around us I peer, "1st Lt., do recall that speaking of such personal affairs is certain to elicit a negative reaction from our guest," He doesn't say anything, even if I wait for a small moment. Sigh… "2nd Lt. Makabe, while the wording might have not been as amicable as I would have desired, my retainer brought up quite some fair points," He looks at me, regaining his prior composure, "If these matters are indeed connected, then a thorough investigation is in order. Both to determine what happened to the missing supplies as well as safeguarding your brother. Could I ask of you to stay the night in the palace, so that you can accompany some of my fellows to meet this woman tomorrow?"

"…While I would wish to lend a hand, my orders are to return posthaste to my lord's side," He bows down, a frozen neutrality hewn into his voice.

"With the raging storm as it is? Please 2nd Lieutenant, you'd be well served in accepting our hospitality," Sigh… Yet again, faking amicability which only makes Makabe's complexion tighten further, "Then, you could join our fellows at dawn to investigate this matter, before you depart."

"I also must insist, Makabe," I smile towards him, countering Takeru's obstinate aggression, "Your presence would be of paramount importance to dispel our suspicions on this caretaker."

Waiting a moment in silence, he then bows down, "If you so require, so I shall do. So… I suppose we should leave the matter of the arrangement of supplies for… another date," I nod, forging my lips shut to prevent a smile, "Then, will this retainer of yours accompany me to pay a visit to my brother?" He inquires, again looking at the rows of pillars, at the outstretched shadows.

Mana shakes her head, stepping forward, "Sadly, both of us are required to remain by Her Highness at all times. I propose that we should continue this talk tomorrow after breakfast, however. We shall ready a detailed report on these leads, that I'd welcome your eyes go through tomorrow," She asks, or rather demands, as Makabe nods with another somber smile, their stares once more clashing as the hail and thunders do outside.

"…Very well, I agree to those plans," Looking my way once more, he stood up and bowed deeply, again smiling, "I thank you for your hospitality, Your Highness. As well as for the consideration you had to allow me to learn of these developments."

"No, it is nothing. Let us hope this is nothing more than an unfortunate coincidence. It is quite late, so please do retire to one of our spare rooms. Mana, if you would."

He nods one last time, giving me another short bow, before following behind Mana as both leave the room. As expected, no one enters afterwards, signaling an end to the meetings of this day.

Sighing, looking at the clock whose sounds are drowned by the downpour, midnight is almost upon us. As if I had endowed an armor, my arms cannot stretch, my neck cannot fully rotate. Once the tension leaves me, my back cannot returns itself upright. Pressuring pain comes surging from its middle.

Ugh… I should have heeded Mana's advice, I truly needed a small rest.

Standing up in slow motion, dragging my feet to the closed doors that lead to the balcony, the coldness seeping in makes me shiver, my breath becomes visible. Resting a hand against the glass, peering into the storm, into the swirling and most dark clouds, perhaps this reflection of mine face is resembling our defenseless gardens below.

Bringing a hand to my neck, the minute touch once more sends a shiver of pain down my back. Merely moving my neck is enough for my muscles to ache, to freeze in position, to send a jolt of tension all over my back and shoulders.

But then, footsteps echoed closer, "Your Highness, you should retire to your chamber for the night," He said, finally coming out of hiding, standing near a pillar a few steps away from me.

However… I couldn't help but to frown as I looked back at him, who was dressed in the black dress for some reason, "Takeru, could you kindly explain why would you choose to confront Makabe as you did?"

"…You could not accept his terms, not considering the intel we received," Immutable as the dark clouds, frosting as the glass to the touch.

"Why did you not notify me of it, then?"

"Because you had to be in the dark, so that you could shine brighter."

"…Whatever does that mean?"

"You needed to be honestly surprised, you could not show any signs of hostility during the talk about supplies, for you to act as the beacon you are required to be," A minute frown surges on him when I narrowed my eyes, he then looks away, "Having you display such unawareness and sudden wrath was what we needed to sail the talk to our port."

"Sigh… You could at least have told Mana of these matters. Furthermore, you are my shinobi. I cannot say I welcome such manner of plotting from you," Leaving the window, getting closer to him, mine own complexion and tone growing scolding.

Yet, he merely raises a brow, "If you must know, this was Raiko-san's idea. I simply thought it was better than to frontally clash with the dog of Ikaruga, as you expressly told me to stop doing."

"…You shall not refer to 2nd Lt. Makabe in such way."

"…Should I rather call him 'puppet', then?"

"Takeru, cease this foolishness at once!" Despite my shout, his expression doesn't change. Sigh… "Regardless, I cannot have you clashing against our allies any longer. Should you not correct your manners, I shan't allow you to be present in any further meetings," I frown his way.

And he takes a step closer.

And another. And another.

Until we're face to face, almost no distance between us.

In image of how a thunder once more illuminated the night, that searing wrath once more scorched his prior composure, "Should I take such words as you saying you are removing me from your side?"

"…I said no such thing. If you do not obey my commands, I shall-"

"So you would rather have relinquished further powers to the Ikarugas, Your Highness?"

"You will not interrupt me again. We must be mindful of our steps, you should know that well enough already."

"And yet, had I told you of this beforehand, I assume you would have said it was not enough to demand answers. Without clear evidence, you wouldn't have driven Makabe into a corned as I did just now. You would assuredly never have used his brother to incite an agreement."

"…And that came at the expense of him growing suspicious of you, of revealing to the Ikaruga House I possess a retainer who is in hiding," And quite possibly, this also quite certainly will erode our rather peaceful cooperation efforts of late.

Yet, he smirks, "And that's for the better, in my opinion. So that they know that, if they keep trying to take advantage of your bountiful generosity, there will be consequences. You surely don't believe the Head of the Ikaruga House to be a brave, selfless hero as the rumors say?" Thus now, blazes make way to his gaze, as he would say happens to me from time to time.

"Sigh… While I shan't deny I am harboring some doubts towards his person, we cannot act without clear leads. Are you certain this affair will be beneficial to us? Do you have evidence the woman is both connected to the missing supplies and to… Mogami?" A minute quiver of my lips, his nod only made it clearly visible.

"Indeed. We have visuals on the caretaker acting rather suspiciously at late hours when meeting with a cloaked figure near her resting place. Furthermore, we have ample proof that the place Shinohara was sighted at is indeed one filled with illegal businesses. Raiko-san is very displeased at this turn of events, so she has personally lead this investigation. The intel's veracity has been thoroughly verified, Your Highness," Then, he gives a small bow my way.

"So… What is your opinion on her investigations' result? Do you support it?"

"Well, I…" He finally eases up, looking down, "I do not know whether the woman is an accomplice or another victim, however, we have both visual and audio recordings on her escapades of some weeks ago, which coincide with the date when the cargo was swapped."

"…So, considering you spoke of it in the meeting, will the Swordbreakers leave this matter in Mana's hands?" Inquiring into his eyes, he nods quickly.

"Unless you expressly order us to, I believe it's for the best to keep Raiko-san away from this case. Regardless of her own issues with this particular affair, her presence could forward questions towards her current activities from Makabe," He tells, rather wearily, then nods my way, "Were you wishing for us to take matters into our own hands?"

"No… You all may remain investigating this for the time being, I do not require you to take to the field for the moment. Is a report ready for Mana?" He immediately nods, "Good enough. So… You truly believe the caretaker has ties to…" My throat constricts on itself, little could I do but to close my eyes.

"…Our findings are detailed in the report 1st Lt. Mana shall receive shortly. Do not burden yourself anymore for tonight."

"No, I must know. This is a grave issue, and you should know that well."

"…It is quite late, and there is little you can do at the moment with the intel."

"However, depending on what you all have discovered, my commands might be required to- Mm-Mmghh!"

Before I could finish, Takeru breached my personal space, lunging for my face. My voice muffled as he covered my mouth, his face grew closer, darker, sharper. By his grip my chin was lifted, leaving almost no distance between our eyes as I pointlessly brought a hand to his arm, groaning against his glove.

"I said, you will not overburden yourself anymore tonight, Your Highness," Unblinking, he stares into me, "Did you understand?"

Heartbeats clashing on my neck, air barely filtering through my nose, I could not release myself from his eyes, much less from his hand. A cold shiver enveloped my whole body, yet not because of my closeness to the windows.

But because a thunder once more surged in the skies, casting such a vile shadow onto his face. Leaving only his eyes visible for a moment, a moment where I forgot to breathe.

After that second of pause, I barely manage to nod. His hand releases me, then carefully begins coupling a cheek now as I gasp for air.

"You did more than enough today, retire to your room for the night."

"…I'm still not done with the questioning, and do not be thinking on deflecting what you just did," Grabbing his hand, he remains still as I remove it from my face, "Takeru, I cannot have you clashing against every person you believe is against us. If you do not promise me to conduct yourself appropriately-"

"I will do what's in Yuuhi's best interests, as always," Squinting his eyes, he so whispers.

Mine own gaze imitates his, aware of the implication, "Then, do not try to instigate another argument as you did. And… you should know there is no need to lay your hands on me in such way. You are my protector, whatever were you trying to accomplish threatening me in such fashion?"

Slowly shaking his head, he sighs, "I was merely keeping you safe from your own impulses. It is already late, and you should be retiring to bed. Learning of the reports shan't let you enjoy a good night's rest. And since I know you will not heed anyone's words when you grow incisive," Bowing down shortly, releasing his hand from my grasp as forcefully as when he drowned my voice, then he remains in position, "I took the liberty of forcing you to desist, for your own sake."

As I was about to admonish him, as my lips moved, no sounds came from my throat. Because, in my deepest reaches, I know he tells the truth. I wouldn't have desisted until he told me about the report, and that would certainly not do me any good at this late hour.

"Sigh… If you were concerned, all you had to do was remind me of the hour," I would have welcomed your prior warmth towards me, a hand atop my head in kindness, compared to this forceful approach. However… Perhaps, I merely am reaping what I myself sowed into your heart… "Fine, I shan't insist on that matter. However, do you believe Makabe's brother to be in any danger?" Caressing my head, I inquire.

He shakes his head, back to a neutral, cold expression as he comes back up, "He isn't, for now. As I said before, we are not certain whether the caretaker is truly part of these machinations or is merely being forced to cooperate," Frowning much, he sighs, "Don't worry, we've got them under watch. If anything happens, our Reaction Team will handle it."

"I see… Then, the supplies… Where are they? Were they athwarted on the way to Ikaruga-dono's battalion?"

Yet, he suddenly begins scouring the ceiling, scratching his head, "You truly should rest for the night."

"…What happened to the supplies?"

"It is late. I must again insist that you retire to your chamber."

"Takeru, as my shinobi and brother, I order you to speak," Taking a step towards him, I thus demand while squinting my eyes.

Returning the expression, he nods while never letting my sight leave his, "The missing supplies are not related to the caretaker, she is merely siphoning out meds from our depots."

"…Huh? Then…" My lips sink, the sound of the rain becomes distant as I focus on him, "You wouldn't be saying Ikaruga-dono tried to deceive us, giving C Rank rations to his men while keeping the A Rank ones we sent hidden?"

"…And if I did, what would you say? That it's preposterous for a self-proclaimed hero to do such a thing?" He raises a brow, a scowl, I couldn't help but to groan, "Do recall that Raiko-san arranged the delivery herself. The transporters wouldn't have betrayed us, and they returned safely from the trip as well. The rations arrived safely to Ikaruga's hands, of that we have confirmation, our inductees did not betray us. So, if they claim said supplies never arrived…" Halting his speech suddenly, he slowly shakes his head while going back to his cold and calm demeanor, "Well, anything else would be mere speculation on my part, and you certainly do not need to hear it this late into the night. Raiko-san's report should contain all you need to be aware of, so please do read it thoroughly tomorrow."

…I'd like to know why is it that you so blindly believe in her words. I certainly do not recall you two to ever have been in such synchrony. Yet, he is absolutely correct. If our fellows had betrayed us, Takeru would have already crushed their fangs after all.

"Sigh… Then, you merely used this intel you received to threaten Makabe into silence?"

Finally smiling, he nods, "Indeed. Considering what we learned of the woman, if I had to pressure Makabe to ascertain his position on this matter while also halting his preposterous claims to have you lose more power, I do not see why you'd oppose my actions, since they gave you a most positive outcome," Just as viciously as the hail falls onto our gardens, such are his glare and tone now.

"…Fine, I shall accept you have a point," And once more, his gaze recedes into his usual composed, and oddly cold, gaze of late, "However, do try to avoid such confrontations if at all possible, they might backfire at one point. And do notify Mana ahead of time if such a pressing matter reaches your ears ever again."

"As you will, Your Highness," Such firm formality forces a frown from me as he swiftly bows down. As another thunder echoed about, he offered me a hand once he returned himself upright, "So, will you retire to your chamber for the day?"

"…I suppose, there are no other matters to tend to. Sigh…" Accepting his hand, his pull spurs my feet to action towards the doors, "However, I'd still be wishing to have a talk with you in my chamber," Tightening my hold on his hand, he gives a nod.

Once I release it, once I blinked as we reached the doors towards the hallways, Takeru was once more out of sight.

"…I shall be awaiting your call, Your Highness," He thus whispers from beyond the shadows, "Please do relax in your chamber for a moment."

"…I know. You also should take some minutes for yourself," I look back, pointlessly trying to find him.

Sighing at his lack of an answer, I thus depart from the audience room. The guards posted outside of it once more act as my guide to my private chamber, due to Mana's absence.

However, as we traversed the long, narrow hallways, no more sounds of rain seeping into my ears, an ever present and subtle echo followed me. Turning on the corners, not drowned by the soft velvet carpet on the inner corridors nor the stairs, his footsteps accompanied me until he ascertained I had been led to my chamber.

---

Around an hour later.

(Shogun's Private Chamber.)

---

"Phew…" Slowly rotating my neck, still with some soreness within, I exit the bathroom, steam still rising through my robe and limbs.

Running a hand over my softened, dampened hair strands, allowing it to fall freely unto my back, only the overall shapes of the furniture is visible now through what little light peers through the windows, a sudden thunder aiding me as I took slow steps in. Pressing the switch of a lamp resting on a small cabinet, its soft yellow light illuminates my resting place.

The window is thankfully not quivering under the downpour, yet I could hear the rain even under the caress of the shower. As I sit on my bed, sinking into the most pleasantly cushioning sheets, the ravaging storm remains raging outside, thunders echoing every now and then.

…At least the palace is well guarded against such tempests, yet I cannot help but to wonder, to worry, how are the shelters faring? It is also rather precarious to refer to them as shelters, when in reality they're merely repurposed schools and other facilities whose operations have been halted due to the war.

Certainly, there will be zones in the cities where the streets will end up submerged. As if our daily lives were not arduous enough already, even Mother Nature seems intent on opposing us. It is just as that damned typhoon, striking our coastal forces in the middle of the BETA advance to the Capital, denying us the option to employ naval bombardments. As if that wasn't enough, the Treaty was about to come undone.

"Sigh… Such ruminating will do me no good…" Stroking my shoulders over my robe, my fingertips dwelling in them with unrequired force, nothing but send a prayer over the storm I can do as of now.

Allowing my hands to then sink into my bed, drawing circles on it, while my gaze wanders to the swirling gray visage outside the window, I merely admire the rain, lost in the sounds it makes, in the lightning that comes into view for merely a second before it melts away.

…

I truly hope this storm doesn't last any longer… It is quite late into the night, after all. Surely when morning comes, it will have subsided.

…Which reminds me, I require to do something before allowing myself to wallow in the comfort of the sheets.

Glancing about my dimly lit privacy, only the spectrum of shadows of the furniture, the outstretched frame of the windows reflected on the floor upon a blooming bolt, I am loath to admit I cannot determine whether he is nearby or not.

Thus, I call upon the veil, "Takeru, come to me."

…

Breathing in, hearing only the rain, veiling my sight momentarily, once I looked upon my room once again, he was nowhere to be found and no other sounds can be heard as of now.

How peculiar… He always answers my calls, perhaps he already retired for the night? No… He said he'd be waiting, and I didn't take much in the shower. Then, should I wait for a moment? He wouldn't have deceived me to have me retire to my room for the day, would he? However, all things considered, I cannot deny that-

"Were you calling, Yuuhi?"

"Eh?!" The sudden intrusion, feeling far closer than expected, elicited a flinch from me. Yet, as I looked around, he still wasn't in sight, "Takeru, where are you?"

"Outside the room."

"…And why would you not be coming to my presence as I requested?"

"I wouldn't mind to comply with your order, however, I believe you should place some modesty on your person first, Yuuhi," He so declared.

Which made my look down at myself, realizing I was still in my bath robe, which indeed did a rather poor job at granting much cover to my shape. Suddenly feeling my heartbeat on my neck, barely managing to stutter an order for him to wait outside, I approach my wardrobe and blast it open with a single hand, swiftly reaching in to procure one of my night attires from it.

Allowing the robe to fall to the floor, donning my sleeping clothes as I shivered under the unexpected coldness upon me in the meantime, after placing the robe where my attendants would take care of it tomorrow, my legs once more softly sink into my bed. Double checking my appearance, I finally sigh and dull the quiver on my sides.

Thus, while caressing my hair slowly, I call out to him, "You may enter now," And as I blinked, without even hearing the door opening or any footsteps, Takeru was already standing in attention before me, still dressed in the black dress, "Ahem… Thank you kindly for your sensitivity, Takeru. I hadn't… realized I was still in such simple clothing."

"It is nothing," He simply says, expression sober as he gives me a short bow, "Now then, what did you require of me?"

"…First, how are the shelters? With the storm raging for over two days now, I imagine the situation on the street is not improving at all."

"Don't worry. While there are some streets that are flooded, the shelters and food distribution centers have remained in good care," He affirms, placing both hands behind his back, "Our fellows have confirmed everything is still under control, and there is no risks of further floods occurring. The relief forces are also at the ready should a landslide occur."

"Is that truly so? What about those on the outskirts of the city?"

"…While the deliveries to those shelters will take some more time, our insistence to relocate the people to the shelters as opposed to leaving them in the parks will assuredly ensure they remain in good health during this storm," Once more giving me a nod in confirmation, my hands relax further unto the bed.

"I see… That is a relief. Have we heard word on the situation of the other Regents?"

Almost closing his eyes, Takeru slowly shakes his head, barely restraining a frown, "No. At the least, we believe both the Kujo and Takatsukasa Houses have followed your suggestion to house our common fellows in proper buildings instead of leaving them in the parks, however, as you know, the Ikaruga House decided to repurpose most free buildings for the war efforts, so the peasants under their care are either still in the parks, or in the smallest, oldest buildings available."

"…Did our negotiations truly broke down with their representatives?"

"It isn't as if they broke down entirely," Sighing too adustedly, as if a bull he were, his sight veers to the windows, "Some of our fellows have been convinced of his stance's effectiveness, how using the available infrastructure to bolster the IRG's capabilities is the better option we possess."

…However, even if we triumph over the BETA, what will be of our people? I am well aware we are being driven against the wall, that perhaps all we can do is offer some respite to our peasants while demanding they endure such atrocious living conditions, yet… yet for us to deny them a rooftop under this raging storm?

"If Her Highness allowed it, we could take to the field and-"

"You shall not," I frown, he remains as calm as he was, "Leave the negotiations to me, clashing with the Guard is not what we should be doing as of now."

"…Understood," Eyes closed, his voice but a whisper almost drowned by the rain, he bows down.

Biting my lips softly upon his formal answer, entwining my fingers I lean forward slightly, "In any case… I assume everything we could do was already done?"

"Or the measures are ready to be applied shortly," Still calm and cold, he returns himself upright.

"I see… Have we heard from the plans the government in Sendai is preparing?"

"…The reports are being arranged for tomorrow. All I was told is they requested Her Highness to make a public appearance once the storm passes, to survey the city's state to give some relief to the people," He informs.

Which brings a smile to my face, despite my image being used as a tool to placate the people. I truly welcome this opportunity to see how they are faring with my own eyes. While I had forwarded such a request before, most advisors recommended me to remain doing press conferences or radio broadcasts. I should thank Kurechika-dono for this, I am sure he was the one who insisted for this chance to come my way, for me to see the truth myself instead of through the advisors' reports.

"Which is why," Takeru continues, narrowing his eyes ever so slightly upon my figure, "you should rest for the night, Yuuhi."

"I know, remaining awake all night again was not in my plans," He nods, his shoulders easing up, his chest lowering slightly, as if he had released quite some stagnant air in him just now, "So, is the castle in proper form as of now?"

"Save for the gardens, yes."

"Then, that is good. Did Makabe forward any further inquiries in the end?"

He shakes his head, "All he did was converse with 1st Lt. Mana about the caretaker, and how his youngest brother was always quite insistent on aiding anyone whenever he could."

"Sigh… That is good to hear. I only hope your intrusion doesn't cause us any inconveniences," And again, he narrows his eyes slightly, "Now, that reminds me… Takeru, why would you be wearing the black dress?"

"Because it is easier for me to conceal my presence by wearing black clothing, of course," Nodding once, folding his arms, "Furthermore, this is the color I should wear."

"What… That is not true," Grasping the sheets, I frown at him, "You are a legitimate member of the Koubuin House, and have been given the blessing of the Tsukuyomi House as well," In addition to the Amato House's, twice at that, "Therefore, you have earned the right to endow the crimson attire befitting of the honors you've accomplished."

Closing his eyes, he says nothing. Neither the dim yellow nor the sparking white can seep into his facade. Once he opens his eyes once more, he sighs with furrowed brows.

And thus, he whispers, "While all of that was true once, it all has been void of meaning when you removed your emblem from my person," Lips quivering, my hands cannot help but to clutch the sheets in fear of his next words, calm words, "I am merely Takeru Shirogane, and a commoner must wear black in the Imperial Guard."

"Utter no further balderdash. You are my brother. Even if we… had a disagreement, I restored your rightful title to you."

Yet, he again shakes his head, "You cannot possibly have a brother who doesn't exist, Yuuhi. You erased me so that I could be your shadow, there is no point in clinging to what once was," Such a calm voice, as if merely stating my schedule. Such a calm expression, as if uncaring towards what he had affirmed.

Gritting my teeth, gripping my sheets, by pressing my ankles together I managed not to spur my feet to action as I desired to, "How many times must I tell you this arrangement does not undo your prior achievements? While the rest may need to remain in the dark, your position by my side hasn't-"

"And that is the meaning of me having this, isn't it?" He taps his blade, still oddly composed, "This is all I need to prove the status you've bequeathed me with. Also, it is easier for me to move around in the black dress," He then raises a finger upwards, nodding once, "No one would pay much mind to an inductee with such a low rank, yet if I walked around in the red dress, I'd be showered in millions of gazes without even doing anything suspicious. Frankly, it always got on my nerves," And for the first time in months, a speck of sulking on his cheeks.

"Mmgh… I know you speak the truth, however…" Releasing the sheets, I remain quiet, pondering what to say next. I doubt I could convince him to cease this foolishness… "Sigh… While I agree your mission takes priority, do remember I still see you as part of my family, Takeru."

He says nothing, closing his eyes once more. Thus, I stand up, walking over to the window, again gazing at the storm. At least knowing my directives were enforced on time is enough to assuage some of my concerns. However, there is one last matter I must inquire into.

Looking back, seeing he had accompanied my short stride as always, while staring into his eyes I ask, "Takeru, has anything else of importance come to your ears through these investigations of late?"

One of his brows twitches, "…You should be preparing to rest, Yuuhi."

"However, if any other pressing matters such as the situation with Makabe's brother would have been discovered, I must know of them."

"You shouldn't be mulling over such matters this late into the night."

"I must know ahead of time. While I concede your plan for this meeting was successful, I cannot remain in the dark for such vital developments."

"…1st Lt. Mana's fellows are already on the move, and ours as well. Furthermore, a report is already prepared for your eyes to go over tomorrow."

"Takeru, cease this obstinacy at once."

"However, you will have to be awoken at 400 hours," He states, furrowing his brows, "I must insist that you desist in this inquiry, and that you at least consider resting until 500 hours instead. Do not overburden yourself."

I take a step forward, peering into his eyes, "1st Lt. Takeru Koubuin, as your Shogun, Regent, and older sister, I demand you relinquish any and all intel you may possess. Let me remind you, I have the final say, the last sign of authorization in the IRG. My voice is what gives legitimacy to my vassals' actions, they require my agreement to proceed through more forceful methods should they encounter unexpected setbacks. Therefore, I must learn of what is transpiring behind curtains."

Closing his eyes, breathing in deeply for a moment, his gaze sharpens upon me, "Your Highness, I must ask you to kindly allow Yuuhi to rest. Your duties are over for the night, and you cannot hope to lead us if you become sleep deprived," Faking a short bow, never breaking the connection between our eyes, his voice also grew sharp, hoarse, "You should rest for today, you need to sleep."

"…This is my duty. My responsibility. This is…"

This voice is all I have now… I cannot clash against the other Regents, I instead must request my retainers and vassals do that in my stead. My agreement is all that veils them from the constant tensions in the IRG as of late. Many doubt my capabilities, being so young, being a woman, my fellowship having failed to halt the BETA from decimating the Capital. I cannot remain idle… I must, and I will, do all I can for those who remain loyal to me.

"Some meager exhaustion is nothing compared to what our fellows are going through as of now. Therefore, I order you to speak of-"

In a matter of seconds, my back was pressed against the window's cold glass. Alongside it, his hands firmly planted themselves around my neck. Not pressuring nor wishing to let go, merely covering my throat, forcing me to look into his eyes.

"Takeru, release me at once!" Yet, he didn't even waver as I began to pull at his wrists, his grip also didn't become any stronger.

A thunder echoes about, again his face is covered by the light. Allowing me to see how his right eye remained twitching non-stop.

"Your Highness… I told you to rest for the day, didn't I?" Softly delving his fingers onto the base of my neck, his thumb lodged into the triangle below, his face then comes closer.

"Stop this… Takeru…" Suddenly out of wording, I cannot continue to speak as he grew closer.

Letting me see his gritting teeth, pressing me further against the frosting window, his hands move up and down, as if tenderly molding the sides of my chin. Heartbeats pressed against my chest, completely aware of my breathing, yet I cannot take his hands off me, yet he still isn't even pressuring my neck.

"I told you to rest, didn't I?" He asks, his fingertips sinking with a bit of force onto my nape in circles.

"Yes… However, I must- Guh!" What knot remained on my nape coming undone under his fingers, a jolt ran down my spine.

Tenderly stroking up to my chin, relocating the pressure to his fingertips as they mold my sides, ending on a firm yet soft hold over the base of my neck. Up and down, my breathing accustomed on its own to his soft stroking, Takeru kept me in place, never allowing my eyes any respite from his, never compromising my breathing in the slightest.

"Your Highness, Yuuhi needs to rest. You've done an outstanding job today as well, you also deserve a break," Despite his whisper, he still did not let me go.

Firm and steadfast, yet never hurting, only halting my voice and keeping my in place as he stared into me. His rhythm eased up, again merely grasping me, merely resting his palms on my skin.

"Takeru, I have to… protect our fellows…"

"Leave that for tomorrow."

"I must at least give them my approval…"

"I said, leave that for tomorrow. You need to rest."

"However, they require- Ugh! G-Guh… S-Stop it…"

This time, up and down, his fingers dove into my still stiff sides. A bit of pressure from his palms, circular patters as if kneading me, ending on singular sinking points with two fingers at once. The rainfall echoed about, the cold kept seeping into my back, as he slowly moved me, force me to move, rotating my neck, hearing it crack, the jolts shocking and covering me the more he massaged my neck.

Soft, yet firm. Slow, yet precise. Locking, yet not oppressive. One or two deep breaths, my eyelids almost close, simply basking into the evaporating tension of my upper body. Yet… I cannot… I cannot merely allow Takeru's massage to lull me to sleep…

As I again tried to repel his hands from me, he grew closer. And closer. Slowly, eerily so, his sight became odd-eyed. My fingers stopped thrashing against his wrists, yet his grip never bound my neck tightly. Growing ever closer, he rested his forehead against mine, leaving me with no escape from his wrathful stare.

And then, silence. Save for the eventual thunders, save for the incessant rain, save for our breathing.

He said nothing, I couldn't utter anything despite his hold not restricting me.

His head shivering, eyes still crossed, he held my gaze with his blaze.

And I could do nothing but wait.

"…Your Highness?"

"Y-Yes?" Upon my rather meek answer, his hold eases up further, now just barely resting on my skin, barely holding me in place.

"Yuuhi needs to rest, she is exhausted from the constant setbacks we're suffering. Both physically and mentally," He states through gritted teeth.

"I… I know… I am-"

"So, if you keep interfering with her lone moment of respite… Your Highness, I will have to ensure you do not ever do such a thing again."

"W-What… are you…"

"I am merely asking you to uphold our pact, nothing else," Finally, his eyes return to normal, his hands begin to slowly, meticulously stroke my neck, "Yuuhi needs to sleep, and your shift has ended for the day."

"However… if there are matters I can aid with-" A finger shuts my lips, he shakes his head.

"After all you sacrificed to get here, you cannot fall for such a simple thing, for a moment of shuteye."

"I… It is my duty-"

"To protect the Empire, and your fellowship. To ensure all that was sacrificed isn't in vain by the end. And to do that…" He leaned back, his hands now clasped my shoulders, "Yuuhi needs to rest."

"However… However, it is because of my own ineptitude that-"

"Then, don't try to bite more than you can chew. I am sure I was a very good example of what you shouldn't do," Frowning, again odd-eyed.

"That is…" My lips shake, "However, my duty as a Regent…" Then, it is my knees, "I have an obligation to my people-"

His grip on my shoulders tightened, eliciting a groan, sending my eyes to his, "Your Highness, the pact we established was clear. Me and my fellows shall ensure your wishes are upheld, or attain enough time for you to meditate on a solution should you so require. Please, trust in my words. You can rest for the day, everything is fine for now."

"…Is it really? You are not deceiving me?" Holding my breath, I stare into his eyes.

Which narrow a bit, yet return back to normal, "I cannot do that. As we agreed before, my soul belongs to you. And on that oath, I guarantee you have more than enough time to rest as of now."

"Wouldn't it be for the better if I tackled these matters now? I cannot take to the field anymore, this is all I…" My head sinks, enveloped by the coldness seeping into my back.

A finger placed on my chin, he lifts me back into his eyes, "You cannot shoulder everything on your own. Furthermore, even if you could, our pact had another condition," His eyes narrow, his forehead again comes into contact with mine.

"T-That's…" Lips quivering, and not because of the cold, I became aware of my breathing as I gulped, as his hands began to slightly move back and forth on my shoulders, his fingertips pressing and sinking just every so slightly with each repetition.

"Surely you remember, do you not?"

As my legs quiver, as my hands again reached for his, what but a warm reminder enveloped me, drowning the rain and the cold, drowned by his sight and his oath. All tension in me evaporated, relaxing onto his hold, seeing into his serious stare, requesting me to voice our pact.

And thus, I obliged upon his demand, "I… gave you my soul in return. In exchange for erasing your existence, for you to relinquish your individuality to the service of the Shogun… My soul became yours."

"Yes, that's right," What I feared was another binding hold became soft, as if massaging me instead, "Your soul belongs to me, Yuuhi. Just like how I belong to you, right?"

I merely nod along, slowly his fingers pull me away from the window, slowly keep massaging.

"So, just as you look out for me, I must look after you," I nod again, "Therefore, I cannot have Her Highness treat you unfairly. After all, your soul belongs to me."

"That's wrong…"

"Hm? How so?"

I lean onto him, my arms ducking under his, basking into his perfume, releasing my breath onto his neck, "Not just my soul… my body… my heart… The entirety of me is yours, Takeru," Yet, even when I'm tightly embracing him, he does not return it. Instead, he merely keeps massaging my shoulders.

"Then Yuuhi, what are you going to do now?"

"…Go to sleep."

"Good. Then, let's go," Grabbing one of my hands, he slowly pulls me towards my bed, and I slowly follow.

Sitting down, sinking down, shutting down, Takeru takes a moment to take out my music box from one of my drawers. The last present… he had given me as his sister.

As the melody starts, those days return to me. Our games, our arguments, our joys. Appeased by the music, I do not resist his tender grasp at all. His hands weave my hair, his fingers rest on the back of my head. They then draw circles, infinities, and ovals, before lowering to my shoulders and restarting the process.

There are no more words between us, no reason to utter further sounds, no tensions nor duties, no expectations nor formalities. But the melody keeps playing. I can merely close my eyes, rest my stomach onto the sheets when he so demanded, and leave my mouth open to breathe away, gasp in, and exhale when needed. Basking into this moment of calm, willingly admitting defeat to the charm of this homemade balm.

Up and down, first with his fingers then his palms. From the center to my sides, then gradually going down, only to then return to my shoulders. The downpour became a tender noise, soon it simply faded.

At some point, in between my blinking, the lamp was also turned off. But the melody keeps playing, so I don't mind it much.

His hands do not stop, not for a second. From my neck to my rear, pressuring just under my arms, the middle of my back, eroding the binds, eroding my mind.

Soon afterwards, I found my mouth stretching to yawn. So I ducked a hand under my chin, rubbed my cheeks against my pillow, as he kept going for a while longer. Closing my eyes, rubbing my feet together, this relaxation would leave the pleasant shower feeling paling in comparison.

At some point, however, his hands stopped. Shortly after, something else covered me whole. Something soft and warm, that my hands identified as my sheets.

Then, a hand caressed my head, "Are you feeling better now?"

"Yes… Thanks…"

"I see…" At that point, something pressed itself against my cheek. Something moist and warm, which remained there for a moment. As the sensation left, his voice then felt closer, "Sweet dreams, Yuuhi."

Stirring under the sheets, something or the other left my lips.

The soft hand remained on my head for a moment, or a long while maybe… It feels good… Grazing my hair, then caressing my cheek oh so softly, oh so slowly…

Yet, it also left me after a moment, and I simply remained hugging the sheets to replace his warmth.

…But the melody was still playing, the melody he gifted to me.

---

…

What hour is it? For how much longer will I be made to remain sitting in this room?

As if my vision were growing narrow, I cannot distinguish my surroundings. The audience room is eerily quiet, silent, absent of any and all sounds. Barely no light is peeking in, no lamps are turned on for some reason… Yet, I cannot seem to find the strength to move…

…I'm exhausted of sitting here for hours on end. Perhaps, I should-

"Your Highness must remain in the palace," The silhouettes all around me said in unison.

"What? I am the Shogun, I am free to see the state of the castle grounds with mine own eyes."

"Your Highness must remain in the palace," They repeat, immutable.

"Nonsense. There is much I am able to do besides sitting here…" Counter to my expectations, a great effort costs me to rise up.

However, I did not manage to even take a step for the audience room to… begin to distort.

Its walls towered over me, stretching further up until they pierced the firmament. Left trapped under the towering shadows, those voices kept repeating the same over and over again.

Feeling as if my feet were bound to each other, almost stumbling I reached the door. Yet, no matter how much I pull, how much I thrash, it does not budge.

"Your Highness, you should become the beacon the people require…" One of the voices thus said, a twinge of pain surged forth on my left arm.

Looking at it… a string had splurged from it, as if connected to my very veins. And then, it began to pull me away.

"Mmgh… Stop this…" The more I struggled, the more it hurt. Soon after, I could no longer feel my arm.

"Your Highness, allow me to shoulder the pen. Relinquish it to me, it is in your best interests," Another voice whispered, as if doing so from right behind me.

Immediately afterwards, another string surged from my right arm, making me gasp in pain. Both arms no longer obeying me, they pulled me back to my prior position.

"No… I… I can do much more… I am not an icon, I was trained to lead…"

Firmly planting my feet on the wood, holding my ground, a slight shiver reached my legs. And once more, those voices echoed about.

"Your Highness, your image will be spared by giving us complete liberties. Please, think of the populace. You must remain as an untarnished symbol for them," Those three voices repeated in unison, the unbearable tearing of my legs drowned by them.

No longer able to resist, brought down to the ground, slowly, slowly, as the room returns to normal, I'm dragged back to the same sitting position I was in before.

My back hurting at the forced posture, strings coming down from somewhere and keeping my eyes open, tearing into my eyelids, forcing me to keep smiling, I can only quiver as those echoes repeat themselves over and over, as my resistance seems futile against these bindings.

"Your Highness…"

"Oh… Maya, Mana… Please, tear these accursed bindings from me… I don't know what's happening here…"

"That we cannot do," Both say in unison, "Your Highness, such is your duty as the Shogun."

"What… What are you…"

And then, they too… "Your Highness, you must remain in the palace."

The strings come down, as if searching for my heart. I try to scream, to rebel, yet their hold keeps me in place.

"Your Highness, you must remain in the palace."

My vision grows more and more narrow, my body is going numb… Or am I being crushed by the walls? I cannot tell anymore…

Unable to utter any sounds… my voice unheard, my will disregarded, prey to the whims of the strings the room remains the same, yet I'm not allowed to move or rest. All of these voices… all without exception… see the Shogun before anything… as I myself do…

…

Remembering something, something old and dear, I look back. And there, he was there.

Standing right behind me, there was Takeru. As he always had been.

"Takeru… Takeru, come cut these wires off me."

"I can't."

"Huh? What… Why?!"

He then took a step closer, becoming fully visible despite the tunnel my sight seemed to be trapped in. And in doing so, he allowed me to see…

…that part of his chest was missing. As if he had a beam of steel encrusted on him, the middle of his torso was simply gone, there was a gaping hole tearing his dress, flesh, and bones. A most riveting sight, tearing my own insides asunder, not even a scream or a tear could I spare for him.

"I'm no longer there, I can't help you anymore," He wailed, dropping his face.

"N-No… What are you-" I couldn't even finish that Takeru was slowly engulfed by a darkened, cold flare.

As if it were a shadow manifested, as if it truly was erasing him, it didn't even leave ashes behind.

Gritting my teeth, my feet spur to action, enduring the tearing of the wires. Extending my hands towards him, they go right through the blaze, the shadow.

And I fall, and fall. Met with emptiness, nothing to cling onto, nothing that clings onto me. Absolute absence… is all that's left in this room…

"Your Highness must remain in the palace."

Something drags me back to my prior position, bolts me in place, molds me into the frame.

My ankles begin to hurt, bent after sitting for so long.

I cannot even muster enough strength to properly speak…

The strings begin to delve further, the voices resonate louder, making my ears begin to ring much.

It hurts… Let me go… Release me… This isn't how… it should have been…

Ugh… If only… I could have been heard… but no one… one other than him… If only he hadn't…

…

However… Didn't he…

Yes… Maya had… said he was… and Mana also insisted much about…

…Huh?

…

Blinking for a moment, light seeps into my eyes. Shivering slightly as I rise up, a strand of hair falling into my chest, my private chamber greets me like every morning.

With the sole difference being the sheets drenched in sweat, and this mossy, heavy sensation left on my back.

"…A nightmare, huh?" For a moment, I rest on my bed once more, merely looking upwards.

Running a hand over my shoulders, yawning as I then stretch my arms, my sight growing distorted for but a moment, I slowly leave my bed.

After taking a moment of privacy in the bathroom, I return inside and sway the curtains away. Shimmering sunshine showers upon my silhouette, signaling the start of a new day. Looking at the calendar, it already the second day of December. Just when did this year pass by?

"And yet, these last few days… have been far more eventful than all the others in this year," Looking at the sunrise, growing closer to the windows, the early morning's warmth showers over me.

And yet, it does little compared to what I recalled amidst my dreams. Just one of many nights, I do not recall the specifics, yet it was one where he had once more taken initiative to keep me safe from my own instincts. And now… seeing my reflection, recalling what I had just dreamed about…

"Am I… fearful, perhaps?" Of what he'd think of me now? Of what he'd do to aid me return to my prior powers? Of… receiving confirmation he is truly gone forever?

…Frustrating as it might be, I must mind my moves. Losing the favor of the other Regents would spell certain doom for me. And yet, if he does return, he won't be pleased in the slightest with my current standing. Perhaps, would he chose… to refuse my call as he did back then, when he remained with the Chains? …Would he choose to remain in the UN?

…Or demand for the Swordbreakers to be reinstated?

"…It is unfair."

Choking a strand of hair, shrugging my lips, I rest my forehead against the glass, the cold glass, left staring at my own reflection.

…I want him back. Yet, I cannot clash against Kouzuki. A hand sinks into my neck, the glass becomes blurred as my breath blows out. However, if he returns, he will certainly insist on me regaining my entitlements. I cannot force such a discussion now of all times.

…And yet, running a hand over my stomach's side, for every pledge I made, for every duty in my shoulders, for all I stand for… there is a reason within that eclipses them all.

"…I miss you, Takeru…"

Sigh…

Then, all of a sudden, an echo intrudes on my privacy. The sound of doors opening, the following footsteps. As I turn around, the door to my privacy was opened and in stormed Maya, at the ready to awake me as habitually, only to halt all movement in surprise as she seems I am already up.

However, it lasts but a second, as she proceeds to bow down, "Good morning, Your Highness."

"Good morning to you as well, Maya. Is breakfast ready?"

"No, I assumed you'd still be resting. Would you wish to change into your clothes now?" She inquires, returning upwards.

"…I'd like to take a moment, if it's possible," Thus, I look out the window once more.

"As you will. Then, about today's schedule, there are a few short meetings throughout the afternoon once the meeting to authorize the transfer of the Type-1C to… Your Highness?"

"Hm? Yes?"

"…Is there anything worrying you?" She takes a step closer, a brow lowering in concern.

"Sigh… Was I being too obvious?"

"Well, you rarely, if ever, remain staring out the window in such fashion, as if dismissing my presence."

"I was not doing such. There's something… I should have asked of you before."

"And that would be?"

I then look back at her, right into her eyes, sending a hand to my still loose hair, "When is Takeru coming back?"

…

"Huh?"

"I said, when is Takeru coming back? It has been quite some time since the CCSE, and you all have been quite insistent on how he… truly is…" Filling myself with air, I look out the window, "…alive. Thus, when is he returning?"

Maya was left bereft of any and all words for but a second, "Your Highness, we still haven't ascertained the state of his-"

"So are you now affirming the man is not Takeru?"

"No, I am merely saying it will take more time to-"

"How much longer?" I take a step towards her, eyes narrowing.

Which makes her bow down, "We do not yet know. After all, we haven't had a conversation with the man regarding his memories."

"And, when will you gain such an opportunity?"

Closing her eyes for a moment, she then taps her glasses, "Mana reported yesterday night that they'd be allowed to speak with the man during today's afternoon, they have Kouzuki's word on it. We shall gain their confirmation before dusk falls."

"Is that so?" Drowning a sigh, forcing the air to leave through my nose, my countenance does not soften, "Then, I suppose waiting is all we can do for the moment."

Soon, soon enough this disquiet will vanish. And when his answers reach me…

"Maya, how do you suppose we could bring him back?"

"If you'd wish for him to remain as your shadow, some cover will need to be procured since many are those who have grown interested in his exploits after the CCSE," She stops, breathing deeply, lips shivering for an instant, "However, if yoi desired to reinstate him as who he was before, well, many explanations and concessions will be expected of us."

"Huh, is that so? Do the other Regents believe they can threaten me so?"

"Your Highness?"

"Pah, how boorish. Maya, please do prepare the required documentation to ensure Takeru's return is resolved swiftly."

However, she seems to hesitate for a moment, "Your Highness, forgive my rudeness, yet you cannot clash with-"

"The pacts with Kouzuki, and Alt. IV's success more importantly, shall grant us ample influence. I shall use said tailwind to have Takeru return to my side. Perhaps, are you having some reservations towards my wishes?" Tilting my head, choking a strand of hair, I peer into her eyes.

That widen slightly, before shaking her head hastily, "Of course not, milady! I am merely suggesting to exercise caution."

"Then, let's have breakfast. Please do tackle these required arrangements posthaste," I order, she nods.

"By your will. However, why the sudden irritable impatienve, Yuuhi-sama?"

Sighing, I finally relinquish the imposing mask, "I merely wish to resolve this matter quickly. I… want a resolution. And…" I want him back, to finally follow through with our pact to its ultimate consequence. If Takeru yet lives, then he belongs to me, "Certainly, he would have scolded me much from indulging in such passivity. Furthermore, I shan't allow other Regents to delve into my House's affairs. Thus, please do ensure those documents are prepared for when Mana reports back today."

She nods, opening her mouth yet saying nothing for a moment, eyes darting down, "Then… You will… welcome him back into our fellowship, as himself and not a shadow?"

"…Did I stutter, perchance?"

"No, milady!" Standing in attention, she gives a salute, clamping down her lips to not smile. Oh, Maya… "Well then, let me assist you in getting dressed."

Relenting both a nod and a smile, I allow her to begin our usual procedure while I got lost in thought.

…

…Just a few more hours.

Please Takeru… tell me it's truly you, that such a miracle truly occurred. Tell me you haven't forgotten… tell me you didn't forget about me… about us.