KazKoe (Thanks N9R for the name-Love it) this chapter is going to show how their relationship progresses but at a slower rate. Koemi is still learning and Kazui is knowledgable but unexperienced. He just hasn't met the right girl, which I will explore in this chapter, why that is. Also, thank you all for writing reviews it lets me know you still want to read my story. Enjoy

x


Kazui was struggling with himself for most of the day. His discussion with the princess left a guilty feeling inside, and he wasn't sure why. Even though he expressed that his intentions remained innocent, his actions probably confused her. It confused even himself. His feelings of jealousy taking root, especially in regards to talking about the Underworld Prince. He was sure it stemmed from this man wanting to harm his family and doing unspeakable things to his sister, but a part of him knew when he spoke to Koemi that it was not entirely the only reasons. He tried to ponder it more until he found a couple of guards near a group of newcomers entering the village.

Koemi remained firmly grounded in her stance, and it seemed these newcomers poised no threat. Each person had apparel that was different among them, while Koemi and her people wore cloth and material from the earth. One of the groups adorned shells or substance you would find near an ocean. He found a female adorned in nothing but precious stones that covered her intimate areas as another man wore dark metal with a long beard that braided to his abdomen. They each had a unique look to them. Kazui had to remind himself that the guest's arrival was since King Fuminori had warned them all. Why they gathered here was unknown? As he stepped closer to Koemi, she glanced at his appearance for a second before immediately turning her attention to the group that gathered in front of them as they all bowed.

"Please rise, there's no need for you to bow before me. We are all equal and among friends," she smiled, bowing humbly to all of them as they stood up and nodded.

All of them remained silent until one person, in particular, stepped forward who wore cloth and marred armor from past battle. He was handsome. Short black hair that had lightly shaved sides with stunning ocean blue eyes that focused on the pink haired woman in front of him.

"Princess Koemi, what a delight to see you again. King Fuminori informed our tribes of a possible threat. Our people remain at our village, and the King only asked that the governor of each tribe arrive to seek further counsel."

Koemi, for a moment, looked perplexed as she stared at all the men and women who looked to her for support. She nodded and smiled as she straightened her posture to speak.

"Thank you, General Zyden. I also thank everyone as well for arriving at a crucial time in this upcoming war. Though my father is not here, he has instructed me on his intentions if everyone would follow me."

They all followed the Princess into a large tent, erected with animal hide and sticks. Inside housed large rocks that were seated in a circle, so everyone faced each other as the Princess waited for everyone to have a seat. Koemi looked for Kazui as she beckoned for him to have a place at an empty seat beside her. It was a seat reserved for her when her father was seated at the head, where she sat at the moment facing the others.

Most of the others wondered about the newcomer with bright orange hair and otherworldy clothing. She noticed some of the leaders' eyes fixed on Kazui, especially Zyden. Koemi leaned closer to Kazui to whisper to him.

"They are interested in you. Would you mind if I introduced you to the others?" the younger girl looked at him patiently and felt relief that she was not upset with him.

"Sure," he smiled, looking at the others, finding confusion on some at how familiar he was with their Princess.

"Before we speak on matters of our impending fate. I noticed confusion amongst all of you on this man who sits beside me."

"A little," the woman who wore precious gems giggled. Her dark eyes were scanning Kazui appreciatively as she pushed her long black hair across her shoulder.

"My father has given the bracelet of companionship to him, to protect me from Prince Mitsuhide's advances. I am under this man's protection until the end of this war or until our people are free."

"You say the protection is until the end of this war? Is this union temporary?" General Zyden voiced with an irritated look that made Kazui feel irked at the man's tone. Koemi seemed to hesitate as she straightened out her skirt that began to rise a bit when she sat down before she answered.

"Yes, it is temporary. His name is Kazui Kurosaki, he-"

"Why would King Fuminori trust this Kazui individual to protect you? I'm one of his fiercest soldiers, I've fought alongside him for many years." Zyden stood up as he crossed his arms, staring at the orange haired boy. "He's a boy." The comment caused Kazui to stare at the General angrily but remained calm.

"Oh come on, Zyden. We trust King Fuminori with our well being are you questioning his wisdom?" The black haired girl asked the frustrated man who stood in silence. "You were saying Princess Koemi?"

"He is the son of the missing Princess, Orihime."

There was a collective response of shock amongst the room as all eyes looked to the boy as he waved at them nervously with a huge smile. He turned to Koemi for permission to speak as she nodded in approval. He stood and bowed respectively to the others.

"I like to take the time to say hello to everyone. I know my relationship to the missing Princess doesn't say much of myself as an individual, but I ask that you give me time to prove myself to all of you. There's a reason I'm here and under King Fuminori's orders to use my strength to protect Princess Koemi and everyone else in this village. Thank you," Kazui bowed again humbly as he sat back down.

Zyden sat back down as well but with a deep scowl on his features as he remained silent. It was the man with the dark metal and long beard that spoke.

"I Lothren, have fought many years with King Fuminori as well. If he trusts you with the life of his daughter, I see no reason not to trust you myself. Welcome, Kazui Kurosaki, son of Princess Orihime," the man placed a fist on his chest and bowed to him as Kazui expressed his thanks, while Lothren sat back down. Most of the guests acknowledged the newcomer.

"Welcome, Kazui. I hope you are being treated well here, and maybe you could visit some of the villages outside of this one. So you could see all of Shun Nya and what it has to offer. My name is Vathyst," she winked at him as he nodded. Koemi saw the exchange and couldn't help but feel upset, but she cast her feelings aside as she coughed politely and spoke.

"Since you are aware of Kazui, let us move on to the reason why you are all here." Everyone agreed with an approving grunt or nodding in acknowledgment. When Koemi was satisfied, she continued. "My father has asked that everyone seek to the rules of engagement. Every able-bodied soldier of age is to train under General Zyden, and skilled smiths are to report to Lothren in making armor. Vathyst we ask for your precious stones from the mines of Valina so we can fuse with the metals of Menthor. The Sands of Korrale can provide us with food from their Oceans as well as the Fields of Bastiph. Through the years we've always worked as a separate unit, but my father has asked that we put aside our petty squabbles to unite to make us stronger. All I ask is for your cooperation. I understand that this is asking a lot, especially when it's not your problem to bare."

"Nonsense, if these bastards attack one of us they offend all of us. We've known of Prince Mitsuhide's desire for you, its no secret," Vathyst chided the young princess, as Koemi reddened from embarrassment.

"As a father of sixteen girls, it would be an honor to help with your plight, Princess Koemi. I've watched you grow, there's no shame in seeking help," Lothren growled, receiving a smile from the young girl.

"I appreciate your services from the bottom of my heart. I have the utmost respect for all of you, and it brings me pride that I will fight alongside you," Koemi bowed as she smiled at the men and women who looked to her. "My father has also tasked me in asking that you turn on the communicators that Hermes has given you."

"Is that safe? There can be others listening in?" the beach wearer asked a look of worry written on his face.

"Yes, the communicators have been shielded by Hermes himself so that there is no outside interference. Please keep it with you at all times and never give them to anyone else, it's strictly under your care. I will communicate with you daily on everyone's progress and if there are any concerns, don't hesitate to notify me. There will be moments that I will be away from answering right away so please leave a message and I will contact you back."

"Being that these communicators have a visual feed, no one wants to interrupt their Princess when she's indisposed." Vathyst jested as their Princess turned an extra shade of red," unless the princess doesn't mind being interrupted taking a bath, I know I wouldn't."

The other men in the room coughed at being uncomfortable as the black-haired woman laughed to herself.

"I-I do mind. As I said, I will return your message when I am available. Is there anything else to be discussed before this meeting is adjourned?" She looked around the group as most remained silent. Zyden stood up to speak.

"I do have something to discuss, but I wish to speak in private with you, Princess Koemi. Please."

"Of course, General Zyden. If that is all, please return to your villages to begin your contribution to the war effort. I thank you again for your participation, and I love you all. Praise Amaterasu."

"Praise Amaterasu!" They all shouted back as they filed out. Kazui looked to Koemi as she walked towards him.

"I won't be long with General Zyden. If you could please meet me at the farm so you can help me pick some edible vegetables," she smiled, as he looked at the man a bit hesitant and then smiled back at her.

"No problem. General Zyden, nice meeting you again," he said to the man in front of him.

"It was honor meeting the son of Princess Orihime," he said in a tone that was lacking any feeling. Kazui shrugged it off as he left the tent.

"You wish to speak?" she asked him, sitting down and pointing to the seat beside her as he sat down.

"I'm sorry for my rude assessment earlier on your father's decision. I know now that he needed my skill to train soldiers instead of the task of babysitting. It would make sense to give such a task to a boy," he proudly stated as she eyed him. Not wanting to pick a fight, she merely ignored the snip to Kazui.

"I thank you for your apology. Is that all, General Zyden?" she impatiently asked as she stood up, prompting him to stand as well. He made to brush the loose strand of her hair that was peeking out but thought better of the consequences of touching a woman who was bound by the bracelet.

"Why do you deny my advances, Koemi?"

"How is your mate, General Zyden? I hope she is well?" she ignored his question as she waited patiently for an answer from him. He could only grin at her stubbornness to overlook the issue.

"She's fine. We are expecting a child as well."

"Excellent. I wish your wife good health," she bluntly said.

"You understand that my Leilani is aware of my affection towards you and that our village encourages more than one mate," he stared at her as she looked appalled.

"You understand that our village doesn't. Please respect our ways as I respect yours, General Zyden."

She watched as he sighed and stared at her with the tilt of his head, "Of course, Princess Koemi. If you ever change your mind, I'll accept you willingly. Goodbye, Princess," he grinned and bowed before he departed.


She could feel his lustful need for her, and it made her sick to her stomach. Through the years, she blatantly ignored his comments, but it never seemed to deter his advances. She knew they would need his skill for the upcoming fight and felt relief that she only needed to put up with his presence until he returned to his village.

She walked to the village's farm to find Vathyst sitting while she had a view of Kazui digging with the other farmers. Vathyst turned to see the Princess walking in her direction.

"There you are. You look upset, Zyden still believes he's Amaterasu's gift to the females in Shun Nya. I can't complain about his performance; being a skilled fighter or intimately," she waggled her eyebrows suggestively, "I choose to block everything that comes out of his mouth, well except for his tongue," she giggled when the Princess reddened. "Sorry, that was too blunt of me."

"T-That is fine, Vathyst. As you know I'm already of age to speak of such things, " she squeaked when she felt the woman's hands wrap around her as she whispered into her ear.

"Oh my, I forgot. Just think of all the fun things I can show you," the older woman hugged the young girl, kissing her red cheek. "I must leave you to get started in providing Lothren with my precious elements. I just wanted to make sure before I left," she looked at the orange haired boy that looked in their direction from afar, "If that handsome boy over there is indeed temporary? I don't mind taking him off your hands," the older woman watched when the younger girl's features looked a bit saddened.

"I believe he has a family that he wants to get back to ."

"That's too bad. The boy is so adorably sweet that I can't help but feel compelled to protect him," Vathyst gushed as she waved to the boy who smiled and waved back.

"I think you're the last person he needs protection from," Koemi mumbled.

"Oh, I believe your right. I'd do more harm than good," she giggled thinking of all the naughty things as the older woman eyed the girl beside her. "Hmmm. Is Princess Koemi finally attracted to something other than her duty as a Princess? Has the young man already captured your heart and broken it? Oh, my poor child. I misjudged him, damn that charming smile of his," she hugged and patted the young girl affectionately.

"He hasn't done anything wrong. You haven't misjudged him. He's kind and sweet to a fault. There's someone else," Koemi whispered as she felt the older woman squeeze her tightly.

"Now be strong and don't let this little snag affect you from finding someone else," she kissed the girl's cheek again as she smiled, "Goodbye Princess Koemi! We will keep in touch." She watched the older woman depart, then stared up at the boy who held her affection.

Kazui looked puzzled as he watched her walk hesitantly towards his direction. She gave him a faint smile while she picked up a tool and began to pull weeds that sprouted out around the vegetables. He joined her by kneeling beside her.

"It's not only your people that care about you but those outside this village's borders," he said as she side eyed him before continuing her task.

"They also care and respect my father, first," she added as he nodded his head in understanding, knowing how that felt with his father and mother being who they were.

"I know, but they respect you too. If the other leaders didn't, they'd have insisted on talking with your father instead of listening to you. Where I come from some men wouldn't even take orders from a young girl," he pointed out as she nodded.

"There are some that feel that way, but they trust my father and know that I've always been honest and reliable with them."

They maintained their work with the other workers as the silence was nagging at him. When they decided to rest and drink water, he decided to talk.

"General Zyden is an interesting character. Any reason why he wants me gone?" he asked as she stiffened and glanced at him.

"What gave you that impression?" she knew her answer was foolish and his look of disbelief only confirmed it.

"Well, it could be how he can't stand the sight of me or the demeaning way he talks to me."

"I'm sorry. That man does come off a bit arrogant towards strangers, but a large part of his discontent with you is my fault."

"Yours?"

"He's wanted me for a mate for a long time. It was at first because he admired my father and felt that being with me would solidify that union. As I grew older, he admired me as any man would want a woman he's attracted to. When I denied his advances, he took a wife, but that hasn't stopped his need for wanting me. His village is okay with having more than one wife. It's the reason why he wanted to speak to me alone. He felt threatened by you and felt the need to discredit you for protecting me and asked for my hand again. In which I denied... again."

Kazui couldn't help the gnawing feeling inside of him as she talked about the handsome man who spoke to her in private. The whole time he waited for her as he worked on the farm, all he could think about was her being alone with General Zyden. He felt relief when she expressed that she had no intention of being with him, but he could sense she was still upset. He knew it wasn't the General's advances that caused it.

"Koemi, I've meant to speak to you about what happened earlier,"

She looked at him, and then her blues eyes scanned the fields.

"I wanted to apologize for the way that I acted. You've been nothing but kind and honest since you've been here. I...I've never been interested in someone, so this is all new to me. I'm sorry if I seem like I don't respect your decision of rejecting me-"

"But-" Kazui tried to cut her off, but she put up her hand to let her finish.

"-but I do, it's just tough for me to process these new feelings. Please accept that I'm truly sorry for making you feel uncomfortable," she professed, feeling much better now at venting out. She gave him a huge smile as Kazui began to chuckle.

"Are you finished?" he asked her, watching as she gripped her skirt and nodded.

"Yes," she sheepishly replied.

"I don't reject the idea of being with you Koemi. I don't like the fact that we hardly know each other and this," he pointed to the bracelet," is saying we're technically supposed to be husband and wife."

"I know, and I'm s-"

She felt his fingers playfully squeeze her lips shut as he grinned.

"Nope, you had your turn to speak," he scolded. Koemi pouted as he let her lips go. "I know I'm still trying to get over my feelings for someone else. I interested in starting a courtship with you and in getting to know more of the girl who these people have grown to care for. So would that be something you'd like to try?" he asked nervously, as his features began to turn scarlet.

She stood there, wide-eyed as he began to fidget under her gaze. "You mean to be your girlfriend?" She understood the concept of the word, 'girlfriend,' in his world since he explained to her what it entailed, but she wanted to make sure if this was what he was asking.

"Yeah! Would you want to be my girlfriend? Unless that's something, you don't want-"

"NO! I mean, YES! Yes, I want to be your girlfriend," she shouted and realized the volume of her voice as she covered her mouth. "Sorry!"

"Stop apologizing," he demanded with a grin.

"Sor-" she began to say before she stopped herself by biting her lip."What does a girlfriend and boyfriend do?"

"Well, they usually spend time with each other, go on dates, and other fun stuff," he revealed to her as he thought of what was missing as he began to think of what else to say.

"What's a date?" she asked, and he thanked her for the interruption of his thoughts that were straying to uncharted territory.

"A date is like an appointed meeting with each other. The setting is usually romantic because we're sometimes alone and it's more personal."

"So have you been on dates before?"

"Yeah, um it's usually going out to eat or going to the movies, which is a sort of entertainment displayed on a large screen."

"Like a play!" she jumped up, startling him.

"Yes, like a play. Do you like plays?"

"I enjoy them very much. The children love giving their interpretation of Shun Nya's lore. Once in a while, the village gives plays from a talented writer that lives on the Sands of Korrale. I've helped construct the stage and even dabbled in acting out certain parts. It's a lot of fun," she was extremely excited as she explained her love of the art.

"Maybe we could attend together as boyfriend and girlfriend," he said as she gave a huge smile.

"It's a date," her smile grew even more at her response, it was endearing, and Kazui couldn't help feeling his heart thump a bit faster.

x


After their rest, he joined her in her other chores as she took care of some of the disagreement among the village and settled the small disputes with ease. She gave him some elements that had a soapy concoction so that he could wash his clothing and himself. She gave him temporary clothing that consisted of a white cloth that had sleeves along with shorts that needed vines to tie with a belt. It was something for him to wear temporarily until his clothes were cleaned and dried. After he washed, he found the clothing material comfortable. It was the fact that he wasn't wearing briefs that caused him embarrassment.

He found her cleaned and changed wearing a white sarong that held on her right shoulder with tied vines. She looked like a Greek goddess as the white material fitted around her frame. Her hair no longer having the little braids adorning certain areas around her features. Her small hands squeezed out the excess water from her dampened hair.

He didn't realize she was calling to him until her smile faded to one of worry.

"Kazui?"

"Oh, I must have spaced out. Were you calling me?" Kazui chuckled as she noticed his eyes avoided her.

"Yeah, I was wondering. You mentioned that dates consisted of doing fun stuff, can we play games with each other?"

His mind wandered again as he nodded while he swallowed nervously. "Sure ... what game?"

"Oh good!" she took his hands as they both sat down on the ground facing each other. She showed him a shiny dark blue pebble in her hand as she began to explain the game, "I will place both my hands behind my back, and you have to guess which hand I have placed the pebble. If you guess right, you get to ask me any question you want of me, and if you guess wrong, I can ask you. Deal?"

"Deal! We play a game like this at home in regards to guessing which hand an item is hiding. The questions are more like a game called 'Truth or Dare' the students at school would play."

"Did you play this game Truth or dare?"

"A couple of times! They usually played in a group asking the other to pick truth or dare. If you picked truth, you were asked a question, like "Is it true you like White dreams?" you would answer truthfully. For the dare you were obligated to do anything, the person asked you to do even if it was embarrassing."

"That's such a mean game. I would never ask you to do something so embarrassing."

"It wasn't that horrible. I had to eat a bug."

"Ewww," she laughed.

"Okay, let's play your game," he insisted, "Why can't we take turns?"

"Well," she began to blush, "Since I can sense other people's emotions, I could anticipate where they hide the pebble. It would be taking advantage of my powers."

Kazui smiled at how honest she was. Some people would have used their advantage to their benefit to win a game. Here she was civil and fair.

"Okay!" he agreed.

She placed her hands behind her back; the pose caused her chest to extend out. The Shinigami-Fae hybrid tried to glance up at her as she gave a mischevious look. She then extended both hands out towards him.

"Okay pick which one?" she said happily as his hand glided above her hands while he observed her features that gave nothing away. She had a great poker face as he decided to choose her left hand.

She opened her hand to show that it was empty as she smiled at his loss.

"How many girlfriends have you had?"

He held out his hand to put up four fingers, then added one more, "Now you being my girlfriend that makes 5 in total." He watched her bite the inside of her lip in thought. She placed her hands again behind her, repeating the process.

He chose the left again. Empty.

"What is your favorite thing to do at home?"

"I love to play pranks on my father to get him upset," he said with an uplifted grin, sitting up proudly. She furrowed her brows in confusion.

"Why?"

"Nope. That's not how you play the game," he reprimanded as she rolled her eyes.

He chose left again. Empty. Koemi smiled in triumph.

"Why upset your father?"

"It's sort of a game we play. My father attacks me, and I attack back. Sometimes I like to see how far I can push his buttons before he loses his composure. It's something he shared with his father, and it's what I wanted as well," he smiled as he shrugged his shoulders. "I know it's silly."

"I don't think it is," she continued with the game, distracting herself from feeling guilty for causing him to be away from his family in the first place.

Left. Empty.

"Why do you keep picking left?" she giggled.

"Maybe I like losing," he wiggled his eyebrows, "I guess that was your question."

She realized her screw up as she grumbled before putting her hands behind her back.

Left. Pebble.

"I felt sorry for you," she giggled as she waited for his question.

"Other than General Zyden, how many suitors have asked for your hand?"

She hesitated for a moment before she looked at her fingers, "Eleven!"

He was irritated. He wasn't sure if it was because of how many others that were interested or that it had to be his favorite number. He delighted in the fact that she had refused them all.

Left. Empty.

She shook her head while smiling.

"You stated that you go to this place called College to further your education. Is there a trade or skill you are trying to acquire from there?"

He chuckled; he couldn't help but feel amused at the way she spoke. It reminded him of all the RPG fantasy games he liked playing.

"I mentioned that I help teach at the dojo. I've always volunteered at school to tutor others; learning new things has always been easy for me. I enjoy teaching others, helping them to understand something that might be difficult for them. So my trade as you put it is teaching. I'm knowledgable in all subjects, but English literature is my favorite, which is my dad's too. He's a medical doctor, but he's written many books pertaining to helping other doctors care for their patients." He noticed he had been rambling on as she sat there engaged the whole time as he spoke. Her attention intrigued as she smiled.

"English literature must be written works from famous scribes. Like the lores passed down in our world?" She waited patiently for his answer, with a curious look in her eyes. Her eyes widen, suddenly remembering they were playing a game. "Sorry," before she could place her hands behind her, he stopped the motion by placing his hand on her arm to prevent.

"I'll let it slide," he chuckled as she blushed, "Yes, but we don't call them scribes anymore, they are called authors. Literature is like a type of art form, where you can describe a story or express your feelings through poetry."

Right. Empty.

"Tell me about your sister. Miume, right?"

"Hmmm! She's a brilliant girl. Not as smart as me, of course."

"Of course!" Koemi agreed in a mocking tone.

"She's a very kind person, but she's not afraid to say what's on her mind if that person she cares about is in the wrong. We like to annoy each other, mostly me annoying her. I think it's because she has my dad's temper that I pester her so much," he chuckled when he saw Koemi disapprovingly shake her head.

"I'm starting to wonder if you're a pestering troll, Kazui," she giggled as he laughed.

"We argue, and yes, I annoy her but... I love her. There's nothing I wouldn't do for her."

"I'm fascinated with the depths of sibling love; it's something I enjoy watching with the children that have siblings themselves. I always think about what it would be like if I had a younger sibling of my own. I guess the children fill that curiosity. There's nothing I wouldn't do for them." They both smiled at each other as they continued their game.

.

She raised an amused brow at him as he grinned.

"I'm spontaneous at times. What is your favorite thing to do here?"

"I enjoy playing with myself," she said as his mind halted; the blood rushed to his lower extremities. She took his blank stare for confusion as she reiterated. "I mean it does sort of sound boring, especially when playing with others is fun too. But I assure you playing with yourself is not boring at all." she giggled innocently, not realizing the effect she was having on him. He was having a difficult time speaking, let alone concentrating on what to say.

"Yep," he squeaked, his face was completely red as he tried to look anywhere else but her.

"For example," he held his breath as she began to explain, "I lie down and watch the clouds in the sky and imagine myself as free as a bird soaring above the clouds. I also like to make up a game by figuring out high numbers in my head, probably the reason why I enjoy taking inventory so much. I enjoy swimming and pretending I'm a mermaid. I do miss their company too."

'I guess mermaids exist in this world,' he thought before she continued.

"Then, at night, I create folded items from paper my father brings from your world. They call it 'Origami.' Gifts I love to give to others, especially the children. I hum in bed while I'm folding and make a flower, a bird, a dracni, a-"

" Like playing games, Of course," he expressed as he laughed out loud. The relief he felt caused him to breathe more easily.

"Yes!" she laughed with him curiously as she watched him get extraordinarily uncomfortable and turn different shades of red. She wanted to ask if there was something he took offense. She knew it wasn't her turn to ask.

Right. Empty.

"Did I offend you with my last answer? What did I say that made you uncomfortable?"

His eyes widen as she looked concerned, and became speechless once more. Koemi could feel his anxiety as he continued to stare at her with his mouth ajar.

"Are you okay?" she asked him as he nodded vigorously.

"I'm fine, I'm fine," he chuckled, "You didn't do anything wrong. C..Certain sayings can mean something completely different in our world. I...I just misinterpreted what you said. I was being an idiot," ' and a perv,' he said to himself as she nodded in understanding.

Right. Pebble.

He took a moment to compose himself as he breathed in and out. Not sure if any questions were safe, with his perverted mind.

"So mermaids exist in this world?"

"Oh, father had mentioned something about them not existing in your world. They exist in your stories probably from the other Fae that chose to remain in your realm. They have colorful tails like fish when they swim but morph into legs when they walk on land — lovely and sweet women. Their voices are so serene and calming. There are no such things as mermen. They reproduce with the Fae men on land. They also do not need clothing. Most of them wear necklaces or nothing at all. That's why I...I pretend alone."

The realization sunk in, once he saw her body movement start to squirm. He thought of other things other than imagining her swimming naked, like what were they going to eat tonight or how many bugs were in that tree that was behind her.

"They sound like an interesting bunch. Our world has stories of mermaids in the literature that seduce men with their singing and drowning them."

"That's only by accident," she stressed as he looked at her with a shocked expression.

"How do you accidentally drown someone?"

"Some mermaids who aren't aware that some mortals can't swim. A mermaid's kiss can give a mortal a chance to breathe underwater for a certain amount of time. So when their beauty arouses the men, they fancy and finished with... intercourse. After a few minutes, the power wears off, and the men try to swim back to safety. Some of the mermaids realize too late that they brought them too far, and are also too late in saving them. The grief of causing a man's death, whether by accident, takes a toll on a mermaid's heart. Grief-stricken, they turn to sea foam."

Kazui began to understand the gist of it and found her words informative and sad.

"That was two by the way," she stated as she put her hands behind her back.

"Two?" he was confused before he understood, "Oh, questions."

"I'll let it slide," she stuck out her tongue playfully at him.

Left. Empty.

"Does playing with yourself, mean something else in your world?"

'Oh, no!'

"Technically, it has two meanings. The first meaning is exactly what it means to pl-entertain yourself." He rubbed his hair nervously as he stared at the tree behind her once more...24?...160?

Koemi looked at the tree behind her and then looked at him, tilting her head to the side. He glanced at her and laughed nervously.

"T...The other meaning is when you... touch yourself."

She looked at him with a bewildered expression as she shrugged her shoulders.

"Of course you have to touch yourself, especially putting on clothes and washing. Your world is silly to be embarrassed about that," Koemi laughed as he swallowed hard and nodded.

'Shut up and let it go, Kazui. She doesn't understand. Just let her think that's what it means. If I let her keep thinking that, then I'm dishonest with her.' He was mentally going back and forth with his thoughts as she watched him close his eyes.

"No, Koemi! It's not touching yourself like washing or rubbing-,"

'Why would you use that word?' He scolded himself before he continued to explain, "- removing something from your skin. You're sexually stimulating yourself to feel good."

He watched as her features turned from attentive to mortified as her eyes widen.

"Oh!"

She had replayed their conversation in her head now with the understanding of why it made him uncomfortable.

"Yea!" he chuckled.

Now she felt like a complete fool or worse it made her sound like a deranged pervert. They both looked down at each other hands. Kazui looked up to find Koemi biting her lip as she fiddled with the small pebble in her hand.

"Hey let's go eat something. Aren't you starving?" he said, taking the pebble from the mortified girl's hand and chucking it across the waters of the ponds, as it skipped a few times before it sunk.

"Yes...starving," she looked up to find his hands reaching out to help her up as she thanked him.

They began to walk side by side as they headed back to the village. The pink-haired girl felt Kazui's fingers brush against hers as she looked down. She paused for a moment before she placed her hands into his. She looked up to find him smiling down at her as he squeezed. She felt relieved that he didn't start to cause her any more unease in making fun of her.

x


Starving was an understatement as he watched her fill her plate. Her plate mostly consisted of white dreams than vegetables, but he wasn't going to voice his opinion. Her discomfort seemed to disappear as she spoke of different creatures that surrounded and hid in the forest. Some beasts sounded a lot like boars they called Penteons. Smaller ones that were called Toutums, that Kazui assumed were turtles. Most of the animals had the same names that he knew of, while others, his world thought were made-up existed in this realm.

He contributed as she ate and listened. For the first time, he felt normal like he could share anything with her, without feeling weird. Then he realized she never made him feel unsure of himself.

Maybe with this relationship being so new, it seemed unreal. Like most things outside of his spiritually aware family and close friends, it was too good to be true. The girls he would meet always assumed the worst whenever he was late or when he seemed too nice. They felt he had some hidden agenda, which entailed cheating or being unstable. He couldn't fault them when he was not one hundred percent forthcoming, but how can he tell someone about a world they weren't aware of in the first place.

Then there was Ichika. He didn't have to tell her lies when she was part of that world herself. She wasn't that much older than him, and he soon realized that certain things he deemed fun were childish in her eyes. It didn't mean she wasn't a great friend, though. After a while, he never realized he was dishonest with himself until she insisted they remain friends.

Koemi felt like a sweet distraction from the slew of bad relationships. Was it selfish of him to want her company or even begin a relationship when they only had limited time?

"Kazui?" her voice distracted him as he looked up to find her concerned. He looked down at his plate to see that it was still half full. He smiled and began to eat as she patiently waited for him to finish.

They had a long day and realized it was getting late as their bodies felt worn-out and slow. He followed her into the tent, to find his makeshift bed still a few feet from hers. He decided to lie down, his body was tired, but his mind was replaying the day's events. He heard rustling beside him and assumed Koemi felt restless as well.

"Can't sleep either?" he whispered as the movement abruptly stopped.

"Mhmm," she moaned. "Did I wake you?"

"No, I was never asleep anyway."

"Oh...Oh, ok."

There was silence for a moment before they heard the stirrings of a unique sound. He heard her sigh in irritation before she sat up to hit something on her wrist.

A projected screen came in front of her as Kazui made out the features of General Zyden.

"General Zyden is everything alright?"

"Yes! I wanted to inform you that we will begin training two days from now, that should be sufficient time for most of the other villages to arrive here at Forden Leis."

"That is great. If that is all, can we speak more about this tomorrow?" Koemi smiled at the screen.

"Wait! There was one more reason why I notified you," he interrupted.

"Go ahead. Please make it quick. I've had a long day."

"Of course... Did you think about me?"

She eyed him in disbelief as she frowned at the screen.

"No, General Zyden. Please tell your wife congratulations on your unborn child."

"Koemi, please be reasonable."

"Goodnight, General Zyden," the screen was gone along with the arrogant face of the general.

Kazui heard her loudly exhale as he watched part of her face, from the glow of the plants.

"I'm sorry you had to hear that," she murmured as she nervously laughed.

"Stop apologizing. The man's pride is hurt, and he doesn't seem to take no for an answer."

"Yeah!" her voice sounded tired as he felt anger.

"I could talk to him if he continues to bother you."

"NO, that's fine. Zyden is harmless, and I can handle him. I don't want this to upset you."

"I understand. I'm more worried about your well-being."

"Thanks but I'm fine."

"Okay!"

Once again, the room remained silent as he tried to close his eyes.

"Kazui?"

"Hmmm...Yes?"

She was silent for a while as he turned in her direction. Not sure if she heard him, "Yes, Koemi?"

"N...Nevermind," she groaned as her back faced him.

Kazui sat up, "Hey...you sure?"

"I'm ..." she paused for a moment before she continued, "I'm sure."

Kazui exaggerated his sigh as he began to hum, "Now I can't sleep."

"Why?" she turned to face him.

"Well... nevermind."

He heard her angrily exhale through her nostrils.

She could hear him snickering.

"It's not funny Kazui."

"Okay.." he tried to stop laughing as he covered his mouth.

"I can still hear you," she pouted.

"I'm sorry."

The laughter subsided as the eerie silence returned. For some reason, Koemi found Kazui's laughter more comforting than the silence.

"Is it normal for someone in your world to touch themselves?" Her question was a faint whisper, but he still heard it. It seemed that it took all her courage to ask him that it was only fair he answered her back.

"Yes, it's normal. Does your world not-"

"I...I don't know. That's something the elders haven't spoken to me about. I felt so dumb today."

"You didn't know. It wasn't your fault."

"Have you ever- "

"Yes!" he quickly answered before she could finish her question.

"Thank you!"

"For what?"

"For answering my questions. I know this makes you uncomfortable, but you answered them anyway. Thank you."

"Sure!"

"Goodnight Kazui," he could hear the excitement in her voice as she made herself comfortable to sleep. He smiled, sensing her distress was gone, and he was the one to help her with it. He closed his eyes and fell asleep.

x


The next morning, Koemi woke before everyone else did to start her day, which first consisted of inventory. She stood amongst the housed wooden boxes and bags of food and supplies.

She heard him come in as she turned to see his handsome upturned grin. "Good morning, Kazui," she said, smiling at him as well.

"Morning Koemi," he sat on a wooden box as he watched her write down numbers on a type of logbook. "Need any help?"

"Thank you but not really," she smiled as she began to count the number of baskets that contained fruit.

"I usually do some morning exercises. I missed doing them yesterday, probably why I feel a bit sluggish. I'll see you later then?"

"Of course," she replied. Kazui slid off the box towards her and lightly kissed her on the head before he left.

"Then see you later."

She couldn't help the blush that was starting to creep around her cheeks and was a little sad for the loss of his presence.

She was relieved that nothing seemed awkward between them once she asked him that difficult question last night. After finishing the inventory, she only had a few disagreements amongst the villagers she needed to reconcile before she finished.

She found a group of children running out into the field. She followed them to find Kazui with children lined up in columns, listening as he gave them instructions.

She found it endearing as he was patient with all of them. Some struggled to follow some of the fighting moves he so beautifully displayed. He took the time to encourage them before they started to improve.

Koemi laughed when some of the girls couldn't help but stutter whenever he asked them if they needed any help. She wondered if she looked just as red as the girl's faces whenever he was near.

"Spying on me?"

She screamed when she heard his voice behind her when she saw him a second ago a few yards in front of her. The other children looked towards her direction to wave at her as she waved back.

"You scared me. How did you move that fast?"

"It's called Shunpo; it's a Hohō technique done by Shinigami. It allows me to move faster than the eye can follow," he explained as she nodded.

"When did you acquire students?" she laughed as she watched Haji concentrate on well-placed kicks above his head.

"Well, I was doing katas when a group of them surrounded me and forced me to show them my moves. Can you believe they used this little girl?"

She turned to find Tani waving at her, following Kazui close behind. Koemi covered her mouth to prevent the chuckle that escaped her.

"They didn't?"

"I only asked if he could please show us, his techniques?" Tani argued, giving her side of the story.

"She also used the sad eye tactic and pouty lips. I'm on to you, Tani. I have a younger sister and two nieces at home. I know when someone is trying to manipulate me," he crossed his arms and stared at the little girl, who looked at him with a look of disbelief.

"Me? I would never do anything like that to you, Kazui," her voice cracked, little tears began to show on her rounded eyes.

Koemi could sense that the girl was up to something, feeling her tears weren't as genuine, but the older girl remained silent, watching the spectacle unfold.

"Hey! Kazui!" they heard a small voice call out, as Haji came running. Out of breath, he asked, "How can you make Tani cry like that?" he glared at the older man.

"Sorry?" Kazui said, shrugging his shoulders.

Haji placed his hand on the younger girl's shoulder, "You don't have to cry, Tani. We can go to my house and get chewy mo'ents."

Tani's tears instantly vanished as she smiled at Haji, "Okay!"

Haji whistled, getting the other children's attention as they followed him with Tani by his side.

"This doesn't mean your off the hook, Kazui. We will be back tomorrow to train. Without making Tani cry," he shouted out as he continued to head back to the village. Tani turned around, giving a smile and a wave then turned to follow Haji.

"Well that certainly was entertaining," Koemi smiled, looking up to see the orange haired man roll his eyes and chuckle.

"Glad you enjoyed it. Will you be joining us tomorrow to satisfy your entertainment?"

"Maybe, Once I'm finished with my daily chores. I don't mind seeing the children coercing you into training them," she giggled. "Something tells me that you don't mind though."

"Nah! Honestly, I wasn't expecting them to ask me."

"The adults at this village are too busy with some of the daily duties and now that most of them are sent away to train. I feel the children might feel neglected and left out in all of this. Their parents are doing it because they love them."

"I don't mind showing them. The children need to know how to defend themselves. Do you?"

"Do I what?"

"Know how to defend yourself?"

"My father doesn't want me in harm's way; that is why he has guards near me or at a distance. but-," she looked around to make sure they were alone. "-when I'm alone, I try to mimic the moves that soldiers use to train that I've read about. I'm afraid I'm a novice compared to the others. I've also strengthened my shield by myself," she said as she displayed the huge orange guard that grew in stature, almost as big as a tree.

"Wow. I can help. I've been showing most of the children on concentrating on their powers. Most of the older children have unique attack abilities, while others are still learning how to heal. Healing was my very first ability before I gained my shinigami powers. I was five, how old were you?"

Koemi's smile diminished as well as her shield as she rubbed the side of her arm.

"I..I don't have healing abilities."

"Oh! Do others at your village have the same issue of not healing."

She shook her head, "No, I'm the only one. My father believes that since Amaterasu has blessed me with the rare ability at sensing others emotions that I didn't need healing."

"So he believes being empathetic has replaced your healing abilities?"

"Empathetic?"

"It's what we call someone who can feel someone's emotions?"

"You have other's like that in your world?"

"NO, but in made-up stories of superheroes, there are characters with abilities like yours."

"Okay, then I guess yes that's what he believes. So he taught me how to heal using plants and stitching wounds. I felt there was no sense in learning those type of techniques when everyone in the village could heal themselves. But I watched how Fae powers couldn't cure Lord Iki-Ryo's poisonous fairy, but using medicinal plant application that I learned. That's why I trust my father's judgment even when I don't understand at times."

"So show me your technique in defending yourself while I attack you with my sword," he said, getting into an attack position.

"Is...Is that wise? I'm not that good," she meekly said as she got into a defensive pose, raising her shield.

"Don't worry. I'll go easy."

He changed into his shinigami apparel as he quickly swiped his sword to her right. She cried out at how fast he was as she used her shield as he hit it. She saw the impressive look he gave as the shield didn't break. He suddenly disappeared. She looked around to feel arms grasp her shoulders as she stomped on his foot and used her protection guard to hit his face. She flipped at her side and watched him rub his chin.

"Ouch, not bad," he grinned.

"Did I hurt you?" she felt concerned as she watched him retake his stance.

"I'm fine," he expressed, then swiftly lunged forward with his sword as her shield held.

"Bankai!" he voiced as she watched his body shroud in darkness as his sword changed to sleek black.

She lost focus as her shield shattered. She closed her eyes and then opened it again to find the orange-haired boy leaning against his sword, smiling.

"Don't worry. I'd never hurt you. Teaching has shown me to repress my attacks."

"I know," she shared, feeling dense that she could feel he wasn't intent on hurting her and still felt scared. "Thanks," she moved closer to him and then paused mid-step. "Can I squeeze you to show you my appreciation?"

"You can hug me," he smiled, releasing his form as she wrapped her arms around his waist. She couldn't help but sigh, feeling his muscular figure hidden underneath his clothing, moving to end the contact. Koemi felt his arms halt her movements, looking up to find him staring at her.

"Can I kiss you?" he told her softly, as his eyes looked at her lips. She could only nod her reply as he began to lean in. She enjoyed his lips on hers, but she also delighted in the way his tongue searched the inside of her mouth. Her fingers began to knead the taut muscles of his shoulders as she raised them. She felt his hands grasp her closer as his lips left hers to kiss the side of her neck.

She began to feel his lustful intentions and then a playful watery voice that she never heard before.

"Your lips taste sweeter than White Dreams," she looked up to find his pupils were swirling black and his irises turned yellow. She didn't feel threatened, just a little unsure as she looked at him. "I bet it's the same in other areas," he chuckled.

"Kazui?" she watched as the color from his eyes disappeared while he shook his head. He looked slightly alarmed and instantly removed his hands.

"Sorry!" he turned to walk away but felt her hand grab his arm.

"Please, don't go. I ... I wasn't scared. I knew you wouldn't hurt me," she blurted out.

Kazui turned to find her features flushed and couldn't help but feel aroused. "I..I should have told you about my hollow."

"I read about Hollows, their corrupt spirits with supernatural powers that devour souls, but I felt nothing impure about it in you."

"It's something I was born with. Something I received from my father. It only ever comes out when I feel an increased emotion through anger or..." he exclaimed but paused to redden, "desire."

She felt heat course through her lower abdomen as her heart began to increase its pace.

"I'm not worried about that part of me hurting you. I'm worried that I won't be able to control-" his words were interrupted as Koemi held his hands and leaned against his chest.

"I trust you," she snuggled closer.

"I've never had this problem before," he revealed. Did she make him feel this way? She tried to bury her smile into his chest while she held him. He was concerned for her well being, and she couldn't help but feel giddy that she made him feel sexually stimulated enough to lose control.

"If the hollow is a part of you, there's nothing for me to worry about-" he made to interrupt her as she kissed his mouth before he could speak, "I didn't feel anything remotely vile."

Kazui felt relief that she wasn't at all appalled at seeing that part of him. He remained quiet as she asked him another question.

"You said you received this from your father. Has he ever hurt your mother?" she rubbed the back of his head as he thought about it.

"Never, but he hurt someone that's been like an uncle to me, a long time ago. He said it was by accident."

"If you're that concerned, I'll help you to control it or live in harmony. I don't believe having this hollow in you is a mistake."

He nodded in understanding as his frown disappeared into a smile. "Thanks!"

"For what?" she raised a brow questioningly.

"For accepting that part of me," He kissed her head, "Thanks!"

"Of course," she chuckled as they began to walk hand in hand towards the village — pleased smiles adorning both their features.

x


Haji you adorable little shit. I love him.

I hope you enjoyed the fluffy romance between these two innocent fools. Kazui is a mature adult but I wanted to keep his character good natured and easy going, that's why the children gravitate towards him. I also wanted him to deal with his hollow, since he received a small portion of it from Ichigo. It's not as strong, but it only comes out as you've seen in the previous chapter and this one: anger and lust. = )

Next chapter will show what our gang has been doing in Hueco Mundo. Now that you've seen KazKoe relationship, next chapter will show the flip side of Ichiyoshi (or Hidehika) I'm not good with ship coupling names lol. Maybe you guys can help with that. The flip side being FIRE!