Mr. Omocha sat in his workshop at the back of the store, trying to fix a gear on a wooden wind up frog toy.
"Good morning, Mr. Omocha!". Kaku grabbed his uniform from the coat rack and began to set up the till for the day.
Mr. Omocha smiled at his young apprentice. "Good morning. No need to set that up." He made his way over beside Kaku, placing a hand on his shoulder.
Kaku stopped, unsure of what was happening. His face appeared more distraught than he had intended.
Am I getting fired?!
Mr. Omocha laughed at his expression. "Silly boy. I'm sorry I failed to mention it earlier but I had forgotten. We are closed today for the festival." He walked towards a closet and began to rummage through several boxes. "I didn't call you last night because I wanted to give you something." He continued to rummage, leaving Kaku confused.
"A festival, you say?" He squatted beside the old man as he watched him dig through several boxes containing items from wood scraps to old photos.
Mr. Omocha chortled as he pulled a box out of the closet, placing it on the counter.
"My wife and I used to look forward to this festival every year. One of my wife's favourite parts was walking around in traditional kimonos from when Monogatari first came to be." He opened the box to reveal a light green kimono with royal blue water designs, as well as a rose pink kimono with white flower designs.
The former shipwright stared at the garments in awe. He had never seen such beautiful kimonos.
Mr. Omocha closed the box and handed it to Kaku. "I want you and your wife to have these. My wife would have wanted a lovely young couple such as yourselves to keep our tradition." He smiled as he tried to hold back tears.
Kaku took the box hesitantly. He felt guilty since him and Kate weren't actually married or even a couple, but he was under cover and couldn't let his moral compass affect anything.
He bowed to his senior. "Thank you so much! My wife and I are grateful for such a priceless gift." He stood back up and looked at Mr. Omocha, concerned. "Will you be attending the festival?" The thought of him spending the day alone made him feel even more guilty.
The old man laughed as he slowly made his way back to his workshop. "Of course! I'll be going with a few single chaps of mine. I'll hopefully run into you and Kate there. Now go! There will be lots to do, so you'll want the whole day!" He waved as he sat in his chair, picking up the broken toy frog.
Kaku bowed once again before leaving the shop, placing his uniform back on the coat rack.
-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate stood in the shower with the water as hot as she could stand. She hummed a song as she worked shampoo through her hair.
She smiled as she looked at Kaku's soap in the dish. He always smelled so good, like a mixture of citrus, wood and bergamot.
Picking up the soap, she thought about flying through Water 7 with him. Her body against his as the wind blew his scent towards her, leaving her in an invigorated trance.
The soap melted in her hand and the steam carried the scent up to her face.
"Oh Kaku."
She shivered thinking about him. They had been spending so much time together the past week, but every time she felt them getting closer- he seemed to pull away. Although he wasn't as cold as before, she could still feel hesitation from him.
Kate placed the soap back down. Was he really pulling away, or was it her insecurities getting the best of her?
Maybe I should ask him? No, I should tell him how I feel...
"Kaku, we've been spending so much time together and-" she shook her head. "No, that sounds way too scripted... What about; Kaku you're really awesome and I want you to know-" she shuddered, cringing as she imagined how it'd all play out. She had to get these feelings off her chest, no matter how hopeless or awkward she felt.
"Kaku!"
"Yes Kate?"
She froze. Was she hearing things?!
I swear he went to work...
"Kaku?!" She turned off the shower and stepped out cautiously as she wrapped a towel around her body.
Kaku laid out the kimonos on the bed, and couldn't help but laugh at his room mate.
"Yes?" He turned to the washroom and blushed as Kate came out, one hand holding up her towel and the other holding a plunger.
"Woah! Is everything alright?!"
Kate looked at him in disbelief. "I thought you went to work?!" She felt her heart drop as she remembered what she was practicing in the shower. "Why are you here, and more importantly; when did you get back?!" She held her towel tighter, hoping he hadn't heard her.
He blushed as he spoke to her, trying to keep his excitement from showing. Kate held on to her towel so tight that she hadn't noticed the bottom of it barely covered her private areas. "Maybe a split second before you first called me? I'm impressed you heard me come in!" He chuckled. "Now, to answer your first question; once you're done, I have something to show you." He smiled as he turned away, pinching his arm to bring down his excitement at the thoughts the sight of Kate brought.
Jeeze, when did I become such a pervert?!
Kate emerged a few minutes later sporting a tight pink racerback dress.
"Where'd you get these?!" She gently ran her fingers down the kimonos, appreciating the craftsmanship. "They're beautiful". She turned to Kaku for answers.
Kaku stood beside her, also admiring the kimonos. "Well, turns out there's a big festival happening today. Mr. Omocha and his late wife used to love walking around in these traditional kimonos every year... He wanted us to have them...". He rubbed the back of his head, unsure of how Kate would respond.
Kate paused. She was afraid something like this would catch up to them and their farce.
"Oh my... Did you want to attend the festival?" She failed to hide the glint of hope in her eyes.
The carpenter chuckled. "Only if you'll come with me?"
Kate gently took the pink kimono off the bed. "Well, we'd better get dressed! Are you okay doing me first, I mean, if we do my kimono first?" She couldn't hide the bright red across her cheeks.
Kaku could feel his excitement again. He subtly examined her in her dress, which didn't leave much to the imagination. They were inches from their bed, and it was early in the day. If he wanted to- he could definitely do her first. He mentally shook his head.
Get it together, you dog!
He nodded and proceeded to help Kate with her kimono.
After they were both dressed, they stood in front of the bathroom mirror.
Kate had styled her hair in an up-do with a white flower clip.
Kaku looked at her and couldn't help but smile.
"Kate, you look beautiful." He continued to smile as Kate grabbed onto his arm, unsure of how to respond.
"Let's go!"
-.-.-.-.-.-
The heart of town was filled with hundreds of stalls as old traditional music mainly consisting of the koto played.
A man wearing a yellow Kimono stood at the main entrance to the festival. "Come get your picture taken! Only 200 berries!" He looked over at Kaku and Kate, noticing their rings. "You sir! How about a picture with that beautiful wife of yours? I'll even throw in an extra copy for only 100 additional berries!" He held up his snail camera.
Kaku looked at Kate shyly, but before Kaku could ask- Kate pulled him over to where the picture would be taken. "Yes please!"
The shipwright stood nervously in front of the camera. He and the other Cipher Pol members had always managed to avoid having their pictures taken. That being said- the only pictures of him that existed were for his files at World Government headquarters. He stood beside Kate with his arms at his side, a blank expression on his face.
What do I do...
The photographer laughed. "You're hilarious, sir!" He truly believed Kaku was joking around.
Kate noticed how nervous Kaku seemed. They were out in public, so she figured he wouldn't pull away if she tried something...
Please don't be mad.
She held his hand and leaned against his arm just below his shoulder, a soft smile on her face. Kaku smiled widely as he looked at Kate, pleasantly surprised.
What is she doing?
*CLICK*
Kaku blinked his eyes furiously, unfamiliar with the flash of the camera. "What in the world...what just happened?!" He looked around to make sure Kate was alright.
Kate laughed. "It's like you've never taken a picture before, silly!" She continued to hold his hand as they watched the photos slowly develop, using her other hand to pay the photographer.
The photographer placed the photos in a small cardboard envelope. "You two are one of the loveliest couples! Please enjoy!" He then proceeded to try and wrangle more customers.
Kate carefully pulled the picture out of the envelope. The photographer had captured Kate and Kaku in the foreground with the various stalls and the Monogatari castle behind them. She couldn't help but smile.
This picture is perfect!
Kaku held the picture in awe. "Golly, so that's what I look like..." He knew his nose was big, but seeing it in a picture made him realize how abrupt it looked. He then looked at Kate, who was beautiful as usual. "I'm surprised you've stuck with me for so long." He frowned slightly, feeling self conscious.
Kate took the picture from Kaku. "You're crazy! Look how handsome you look!" She put the picture back into the envelope. "If you hate the picture so much, I'm more than happy to keep both." She shot him a wink as she placed the envelope in the small pink wristlet she carried.
Kaku's eyes widened. "No way! I never said that!" He stopped talking when he noticed Kate's attention was elsewhere.
The raven haired girl looked in awe at the various kinds of food being sold.
Kaku smiled at Kate who had a glimmer in her eyes. "I know what you're thinking... one of everything?"
She bit her lip excitedly as she nodded. "This. Is. Amazing!"
Kaku and Kate found a spot by the water to enjoy their food. They placed a large red blanket they had bought on the ground before sitting.
Kate carefully looked at the assortment before them. "Okay, how about we start with savory and then move onto sweet?" She swallowed as she fought off the saliva trying to make its way out of her mouth.
The shipwright leaned beside her, excited to try what they had bought. "Sure thing! But golly, where do we start?!" He examined the food once again.
Kate poked a takoyaki and held it up to Kaku's mouth. "Open up!"
His face began to burn. "Oh, uh, Kate, don't worry! I can do it myself, no sweat! Don't want you-"
Kate squeezed his cheeks together with her other hand, causing his mouth to open. She laughed before shoving the ball into his mouth. "What do you think?"
Kaku swallowed before a mischievous smile crept onto his face. "I think you need to try some for yourself!" He quickly stabbed a takoyaki and attempted to shove it into Kate's mouth.
She laughed as she barely averted Kaku's attempt. "Kaku!"
He joined in Kate's laughter. "No fair! You did it to me!" He continued to try, unaware that he eventually was no longer holding back on his speed. This took Kate by surprise, causing her to fall onto her back. Kaku's body leaned over her as he still held the takoyaki in his hand.
They breathed heavily from the laughter and the small game of tag as they looked at each other.
Kate could feel her body temperature rise as she looked at Kaku's body leaning over her, one hand near her mouth and the other beside her neck. She could feel his warmth radiate onto her, as his breath raised and lowered her hair. He was so close.
The carpenter continued to stare at Kate, watching her catch her breath. A strange sensation came over him as he remained in his trance. He examined her mouth; small shallow breaths escaping from the small parting of her lips.
Her lips.
Kaku felt himself drawn to them, his hand lowering along with his body...
"HEY!"
Kaku and Kate's heads snapped to see Cutter standing with several pieces of wood under his arm. He was dressed in his formal attire. A dark green military suit, with a black cape that covered one of his shoulders, tall black boots and black gloves. His uniform was adorned with several medals, a reflection of his success as a knight.
They sat up immediately, aware of what it had looked like.
Cutter scoffed. "You two couldn't do that at home? Have some decency."
Kate cheerily walked up to Cutter. "Cutter! Don't you look dashing today! How are you?!" She hadn't seen him since she left the castle, and had often wondered how he was. "I missed you!"
Cutter blushed, caught off guard by her comment. He had looked for her at the Inn a few days ago, but the inn keeper advised they had moved. He didn't want to pry and make his true intentions obvious, so he walked around town hoping to cross paths with her eventually. His heart was racing.
"I'm fine, and uh... thanks. You look...dressed for the occasion." He had to fight himself from staring. He had never seen Kate with her hair up like this, let alone in a kimono.
She's beautiful.
Kaku walked up behind Kate, examining the pieces of wood under Cutter's arm. "I hope you ain't planning on starting a fire with that wood there! That's some real quality stuff!"
Cutter looked down at the wood. "It'd better be. The kids are joining the boat building contest and race. I got called to work, so it was the least I could do to help..." The General was taken aback by the expression on Kate's face as she beamed at Kaku.
"Kaku! You should help them!" She tugged on his arm excitedly.
Cutter shot them a confused look, unsure of why Kate was so excited.
Kaku's eyes lit up as he reached his hands out to Cutter. "I can bring the wood to the kids for ya. I'll also do you one better and make sure they win the whole darn thing!"
Cutter smirked as he raised an eyebrow. "I think this is the first time I've ever seen you confident, long nose." He handed Kaku the pieces of wood. "Don't let the kids down...or else."
Kaku felt the wood under his hand, the thrill of building a vessel brewing within him. He was an assassin by profession, but a shipwright by heart.
Kate jumped up excitedly once again. "Don't worry! Kaku is the best carpenter there is! They'll win for sure! He's amazing!"
His face burned as he looked down at Kate.
Now I really can't lose...
Cutter rolled his eyes, fighting off a hint of jealousy he was feeling. "Whatever, let the work do the talking. I'll see you guys tonight...and no more funny business! I don't want to have to arrest you." He waved as he walked off.
Kate had already packed up the food and motioned for Kaku to follow her to the orphanage. "Let's go!"
-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate's hair billowed in the wind as she sat on the stump in the middle of the courtyard, her arms folded and a hand holding her face up as she stared dreamily at Kaku. He was going over the plans for the boat with the kids while they ate the food they had bought. He also went over the general game plan of what to expect in the race.
The kids had greeted Kate with tears and open arms. Mr. Tosechi had fully recovered, and was back to his usual cheery self. All was well.
It had been so long since Kate had seen Kaku in his 'natural habitat'. It reminded her of when she had first met him almost a year ago. It was crazy to think that they had been living together for several months now. It truly was a fairytale island.
The 3 kids and Kaku put their hands together in a circle as Kaku laughed. "Ready? On the count of 3! One, two..."
"WIN!"
They lifted their hands into the air and began to each set up at their stations.
Kaku began to work on the keel of their boat. It would only be big enough to fit the 3 kids, which meant he'd be able to finish it quickly. He had finished much bigger ships in a day back on Water 7...
He laughed, thinking about his working days with the other shipwrights. He missed them, and his life on Water 7.
Kaku then looked over at Kate who was watching Timmy draw lines on a few pieces of wood.
But there's no way I'd leave this for anything. Not even that.
Kate helped Timmy match his wood pieces to the blue prints Kaku made. "That's right! You've got it!" She patted the young boys back.
Tyson came over, showing the piece of wood he had cut to Kate. "Look! I did this all by myself in like TWO seconds!" He laughed cynically. "Wait till I show Cutter!" He held it out for Kate to hold.
She laughed as she examined it carefully. "I don't know much about carpentry, but it looks good to me!" She handed it back to the boy. "By the way...I need to get Cutter a present. Do you happen to know anything he might like?" Knowing Cutter; she knew that he probably never gave away any information such as likes, hobbies or interests to the kids...
Tyson thought for less than a second as he played with the piece of wood. "He really loves strawberries. He doesn't like sweets, but I remember seeing him eating a whole bowl of them once."
He looked as Heart chimed in from behind. "It's true! It's the only sweet thing I've ever seen him eat! He never even wants chocolate!" She shook her head in disapproval.
Kate's face lit up as she remembered a stall that had sold various kinds of strawberry desserts.
PERFECT!
Kate watched as the others continued to work diligently on their individual pieces. She went to Kaku who had his tongue sticking out on the corner of his mouth. She approached him carefully, knowing that face meant he was concentrating extremely hard. "Hey, Kaku..." She curiously looked over his shoulder as he worked. He had taken off his kimono and was wearing jeans and a white beater.
He looked up at her, wiping some sweat from his forehead. "Yes, dear?" He felt the adrenaline rush through his veins as he worked on the ship. It was what he lived for, and the fact that his talents could be put to good use made it even more exciting.
Kate pointed a thumb towards the exit of the courtyard. "I'm going to head back to the stalls to buy a few things. Would you like anything?" She hoped she didn't break his focus.
Kaku shook his head. "No thank you! But you'll be there for the race, won't ya?" He furrowed his brows, hoping she wouldn't miss it. This would be an opportunity for him to show off to her. He thought about something Paulie once told him/
"If they don't find you handsome, they should at least find you handy!"
She laughed as she walked away. "I wouldn't miss it for anything! Good luck out there! I'll be waiting for you at the finish line!" She looked back one more time before heading back to the main festival area.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kate had forgotten where the strawberry stall was as she wandered through the crowds of people.
"KATE! KATE!"
She turned to where someone was calling her name. There she saw Mr. Omocha seated with 5 other old men outside on the patio of a restaurant. They were all wearing plain colored kimonos, and drinking sake. "Mr. Omocha! Hello!" She made her way over and bowed to the seniors.
Mr. Omocha waved a hand. "Come! Have a drink with us!" He looked behind her curiously. "Wait, is Kaku not with you?" He checked again to make sure he hadn't missed him.
Kate shook her head. "He's finishing a very important job! He's helping the kids at the orphanage build their boat for the race at the end of the day!" She beamed, proud of her "husband".
Mr. Omocha clapped his hands excitedly. "Oh my! That is going to be quite the boat. My, Kaku and I spend hours at the shop talking about different vessels and carving techniques. I'm sure he's more knowledgeable than I am on the subject!" He took a sip of his sake, shaking his head from the burn.
Kate laughed. "He really admires you, Mr. Omocha!" She looked around at the stalls. "Would you happen to know where the strawberry stall is? We passed by it earlier but I can't seem to remember..." There was such a large assortment of food stalls, that she wasn't able to specify where any of the stalls they had visited earlier were.
A bald man who was seated with Mr. Omocha pointed to the right. "If you go straight down that aisle, it should be the 6th one down!" He chuckled drunkenly.
Kate bowed to say thank you as well as show respect. "Thank you very much! I'd better get going. I hope you all enjoy the rest of the festival!" She waved as she made her way to the stall.
After debating for several minutes; Kate had decided to buy one box of fresh strawberries, as well as a bag of dried ones. Since Cutter apparently didn't like sweets, most of the other items were not an option.
As she walked through the aisle, her attention was caught by a stall surrounded by a large group of people.
It was a stall selling charms that had been blessed by high monks on a different island. The charms each had a different purpose. Several people fought over the ones for wealth, while some wanted the ones that apparently helped those seeking romance.
"Protection..."
It was dark green with a gold floral pattern, with the characters for "protection" in the middle and a white bow on the top. Kate made her way through the crowd of people who were still fighting over certain charms, and held out her berries to the shop keep. "May I please have the protection one?"
Due to Cutter's job- he had to be ready for battle at any given moment. His calm demeanor helped mask the reality of his job, and the dangers that came with it. She knew she wouldn't be on Monogatari forever, and the charm would give her a sense of peace that he would always be safe.
She looked at the charm as she continued back towards the orphanage, placing it in the red paper bag that had the strawberries.
I hope this thing actually works...
"Up to no good again?"
Kate turned to see Cutter who was now dressed in a black kimono, the bottom part and the belt decorated with white stripes. "Cutter! Are you off work already?" She hid the bag behind her back, feeling awkward for some reason.
Cutter shook his head. "Not exactly. The advisor to the King felt that us walking around in our uniforms was dampening the fun of the festival." He stretched his neck. "Someone else is doing patrols now, but I'm still 'on call' if anything should happen." He looked around for Kaku. "I'm guessing Kaku is still working on the boat?" His heart raced at the thought of Kate being alone.
She shook her head happily. "Yes! It's looking really good by the way! Make sure you ask Tyson which parts he did by himself. He was really excited about showing you!" Kate chuckled, thinking about how proud Tyson was earlier. "Would you like to come back to the orphanage with me?"
All of a sudden, they heard the sound of several people chanting as it grew louder and louder.
Kate looked towards the noise, her mouth dropping as she saw at least 50 people carrying a large gold and red shrine. Seated upon it were a man and a woman, who waved as they were carried through the streets.
Cutter laughed as he watched Kate. "I think you meant to ask me if I'd like to watch the play with you."
Kate quickly turned to Cutter. "There's a play?! Where?!" She didn't remember ever seeing a theatre whenever her and Kaku wandered around Monogatari.
Cutter pointed towards the park. "There's an outdoor stage set up. It should be starting soon... you wanna go?" He wouldn't show it, but he hoped she would say yes. Although Cutter wasn't a fan of plays- he would take any opportunity to spend time with Kate.
The raven haired girl nodded her head excitedly. "Yes please!"
There were several blue folding chairs set up in front of a black stage with a plain beige backdrop in the park. Kate and Cutter managed to get seats in the third row, right in the middle.
Kate held the red paper bag along with her wristlet on her lap, hoping Cutter wouldn't ask what it was. She folded the top so he wouldn't be able to see into it.
The play was about how the first King and Queen of Monogatari had met. It was a mixture of comedy, romance, and drama, with the ending scene being how the King passed many years before the Queen.
Kate sobbed as she clapped along with the rest of the crowd. "That was amazing! I hope they're happy together wherever they are now." She continued to sob.
Cutter rolled his eyes. "I didn't know you were such a cry baby." He grabbed a plain grey handkerchief from his breast pocket. "Aren't you worried about your makeup or whatever?" Little did Kate know that was Cutter's failed attempt at trying to comfort her. "Why are you crying so much anyways? Everyone dies." Cutter knew that the only certainty in life was death, and had accepted that at a very young age. He had seen several people meet their demise in such horrific ways, that the fact that the King passed due to long known disease seemed like a blessing to him.
Kate dabbed the corners of her eyes. "It's just...I just can't imagine loving someone that much, then having to live without them." The Queen must have hurt so bad. She began to sob even harder.
Cutter panicked, unsure of what he should do. Due to his line of work; his level of empathy for people he didn't know was extremely low, so he couldn't understand why Kate was so upset. However, he also knew that Kate's empathy for others is one of the traits of hers that made her so attractive to him. "Um, Kate...how about we go get spots for the race? You don't want to miss it, right?" He looked at her nervously, hoping she would stop crying.
Kate immediately froze before panicking. "Oh my gosh! I totally lost track of time! Where do we go?!" She jumped out of her seat, looking at Cutter anxiously.
He flipped open his pocket watch before grabbing Kate's wrist. "If we want to get a good spot, we'd better leave now!"
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-.-
Kaku and the kids celebrated as they looked at their finished ship. The S.S. Yume.
Mr. Tosechi came out from the orphanage, sporting a dark green robe. "WOW! You guys did a fantastic job! The race will be starting soon, so let's hurry on over, shall we? I have the trailer for the boat ready!"
The 2 men and 2 boys carefully lifted the small boat into the trailer while Heart looked proudly at her painting of a pink heart with flames around it.
Kaku whistled. "Let's go!"
There were 4 other teams competing. 3 of the other boats looked to be store bought.
2 boys dressed in expensive white and gold kimonos stood cockily in front of their boat, which had been painted exquisitely with gold and blue accents. They were part of a well known aristocrat family on Monogatari, and their father had paid a shipwright to make the boat especially for the race.
Kaku examined it from afar, holding in his smile.
Not too shabby, but Iceberg would never accept that level of work.
He looked back at the boat he had made with the kids. While it wasn't by any means the most attractive boat- Kaku had built in several features that almost guaranteed their win.
The 3 kids were dressed in matching grey kimonos, and they carefully went over the plan Kaku had made for them as they sat in the boat.
"ALL RACERS TO THE STARTING LINE PLEASE! ALL RACERS TO THE STARTING LINE! WE WILL BEGIN IN 5 MINUTES!"
The 3 kids screamed, their nerves of fear and excitement getting the best of them. Tyson raised a fist in the air. "Don't worry! We're going to win for sure!"
The two wealthy brothers laughed at Tyson. "How ever are you going to win? Oh, on that log you three happened to hollow out? Don't be ridiculous!" They continued to laugh.
Tyson growled at the two boys. "Just watch! Our boat is so fast that you'll have to kiss my ass at the finish line!" He stuck his tongue out.
The brothers scoffed, obviously appalled. "Whatever, peasant. The Golden Roi will not be defeated!"
All the boats were lined up evenly on the water, held back by a wooden bar across the starting line. The coaches of each team readied themselves, as they were to run alongside the boats on the shore.
Kaku stretched his legs as he adjusted to the grey kimono Mr. Tosechi had lent to him. He checked out the competition; stopping on a rather stout man who looked like an egg sitting on the floor. "Hey friend! Aren't ya going to run with your boat?" He tilted his head in confusion.
He is a big fella...maybe the run is too much for him?
The man chortled. "What for? I already know my boat is going to win...but have fun with that!" He chortled once again before taking a sip of a drink in a canteen.
Kaku smiled confidently. "I built that boat over there, so I know for a fact that it's gonna win! Well, at least ya won't be tired and suffering a loss at the same time!"
The man gasped, but before he could retort; the starting gun went off and the race began!
Kaku was surprised by how fast all the boats were going, the adrenaline rush starting in him again as he leapt through the trees instead of running on the ground with the other coaches. This way he could see exactly what was happening on each boat, and could communicate better with the kids.
The race was extremely close, but when it came to a small waterfall- 3 of the boats had either gotten stuck or were damaged to the point where they could no longer race.
It was down to the S.S. Yume and the Golden Roi.
They went back and forth for several minutes. The two boats approached a second waterfall. At this moment Kaku shouted down at the kids. "USE IT NOW!"
Tyson kicked up two pedals that were similar to those on a bicycle, while Heart and Timmy each pulled out levers that sat across their bellies. Tyson began to pedal as hard as he could while Heart and Timmy rowed their levers as fast as possible.
The crowd gasped as their boat picked up such speed that it soared over the waterfall, splashing onto the finish line.
The 3 orphans cheered as Kaku jumped down from a tree, cheering as well. They exited their boat, meeting Mr. Tosechi in an embrace.
Kaku looked around the finish line, hoping to find a familiar face.
"Kaku!" Kate ran to him excitedly as she jumped up and hugged him. "You guys did an amazing job! I knew you could do it!" She squeezed him tightly around his waist.
Kaku laughed as he lifted her off the ground slightly, returning her hug. "Thanks for believin' in me, Kate!" He then looked at Cutter who surprisingly had a smile on his face.
The General huffed. "Not bad, punk. Kate wasn't exaggerating at all." As much as he saw Kaku as a rival; he deeply appreciated what the shipwright had done for the kids.
Kaku placed Kate down, catching his breath from all the excitement. "I left my kimono at the orphanage, so I'm going to head back in a bit here. But when I get back- would ya like to perhaps watch the firewor-"
Kate interrupted excitedly. "Yes! Cutter said he knows a really good spot that the three of us can go to!" She smiled back at Cutter, who smirked at the shipwright. He knew exactly how Kaku would react, but Cutter saw this as a small taste of revenge for lying to Kate.
The carpenter forced a smile, trying to hide his disappointment that their duo was now a trio. He wanted so badly to watch the fireworks with Kate. Alone.
"Sure thing! I'll come find you guys by the stall sellin' the sparklers!" He waved before taking off quickly, an annoyed look on his face.
The two aristocat boys sobbed as their father berated the egg shaped man. "How did the boys lose? You said you had it built by the best shipwright on Monogatari! Who beat us? WHO?!" He looked over at Tyson and the others celebrating. "Tell me how in the world did a group of ORPHANS win?!" He clenched his jaw.
The egg shaped man shook his head. "Apparently that man over there with the long nose built it. I'm sure it was just luck that's all." He glared at Kaku as he watched him walk away.
The father of the two boys sighed. "Well, I'll say that we simply let them win out of the goodness of our hearts...yes...but make SURE that you get my boys a winning boat next year!" He walked away with the boys hand in hand.
The egg shaped man sighed, taking a sip from his canteen.
-.-.-.-.-.-.-.
Cutter opened his pocket watch. Him and Kate had been waiting at the stall for over an hour, but Kaku still hadn't returned. He looked at Kate, who seemed to be getting worried. "Hey. He's fine. I'm sure he's just cleaning up or whatever." He sighed lightly as Kate replied with only a smile. The fireworks would be starting soon, and most of the ideal spots would be taken if they waited any longer. He had never watched the fireworks with anyone, let alone someone as special to him as Kate. He thought that maybe he could turn this inconvenience into an opportunity. "Hey, Kate...how about you and I j-"
"GENERAL CUTTER!"
A young brown haired man wearing a similar kimono to Cutter's appeared, clearly out of breath. "There have been reports of a group of vandals trying to break into the castle! The King has requested for you to return." He kneeled in front of Cutter, one hand on his knee.
Cutter nodded his head. "Will do. Please go to the King."
The young man nodded in return before running back towards the castle.
Cutter turned to apologize to Kate, but stopped as Kate held a hand out to him. "Duty first! Don't even think about apologizing!" She lowered her hand, revealing a small smile.
Kate was already feeling disappointed that Kaku hadn't returned, and the fact that Cutter now had to leave dampened her spirits. However, she didn't want Cutter to feel that he was obligated to stay with her. She wasn't a recovering patient in the castle anymore. She squeezed the handle of the red paper bag. "But before you go...I wanted to give you this." She handed the bag to Cutter, looking down as she blushed. "It's just a small thank you gift. You don't have to open it in front of me." She hoped he wouldn't, feeling suddenly embarrassed by her gift.
He blushed, the gift taking him by surprise. "Uh...thank you. I'll open it when I get home later." He looked back towards the castle. "I need to go. Stay safe." If he had a choice- he wouldn't leave...but the King didn't summon him often, and when he did- there wasn't an option to say "no".
Kate waved happily at Cutter. "YOU stay safe! I'll see you around!"
He nodded once more before taking off.
Once she was sure he was out of sight, Kate squatted on the ground. She had no way of contacting Kaku, and was scared that if she left- he wouldn't be able to find her. Her thoughts were interrupted by the man running the stall.
"Excuse me, miss. The fireworks will be starting, so I'm going to be closing up." He smiled at her apologetically.
Kate quickly stood up. "Oh, I'm so sorry! I'm on my way out. Thank you!" She laughed nervously as she quickly walked away, feeling embarrassed.
Where could you be?
-.-.-..-.-.-
Kate made her way up a hill Kaku had once pointed out during one of their walks. It looked over the town, but was not a well known spot as it was hard to get to due to the hike.
She couldn't help but let out a sigh of relief as soon as she saw Kaku. He was laying on the grass with his eyes closed and his hands behind his head.
Kate's feet were sore from wearing zori for so long, and all she wanted was to head home. With Kaku.
She approached him carefully, and took a seat beside him. "Hey." She smiled softly, unsure how he would reply. Him not showing up meant he was obviously upset earlier, but she didn't know exactly why.
Kaku opened his eyes and sat up abruptly, surprised Kate had found him. "Hiya...how did ya find me?!" He rubbed his eyes, holding in a yawn.
Kate looked away from him, turning her sights to the the town below. "I looked everywhere for you, and this was the only spot left that I could think of..."
Kaku couldn't help but feel slightly nettled, thinking about why he had left earlier. "Weren't you going to hang out with Cutter?" There was a bitterness to his voice that he couldn't mask.
She looked at him slightly shocked. "Is that why you're upset?" She thought back to her conversation with Cutter, trying to remember if she had said anything that would upset Kaku.
He huffed. "We were supposed to attend the festival together as a pair...not a trio." He also looked down at the town.
It was Kate's turn to be annoyed. She was tired, sore, and had been searching for Kaku for over an hour. "I'm sorry. I didn't know that was the plan, because we never discussed it. Cutter was keeping me company, it would have been rude if I didn't invite him...and I don't understand why you're so upset over that. It's not like I'm really your wife." She fixed her hair behind her ear.
Kaku growled as he leaned his head back, his eyes closed. "I'm so tired of this, Kate. This whole...charade."
Kate turned to Kaku, her worst fears seeming to come true.
So that's why he's been pulling away. I knew he'd get tired eventually...
She was mad that they came so easily for her, as tears started to well up in her eyes. "I'm sorry. I told you it'd eventually be too much...you-"
Kaku cut her off and turned to face her. "Kate. I'm tired of lying." He examined her face, feeling somewhat distraught as he noticed she was holding back tears. "I don't want to lie anymore."
Kate bit her lip. "Should we just tell everyone we're not actually married?" Her lip began to quiver, but she refused to cry.
Kaku shook his head. "It's not that, Kate. What I'm tired of lying about is..." He rubbed the back of his head, trying to find the right words. "Remember during the gala night back on Water 7? When I told you about someone who might have feelings for you?" He felt his face start to burn.
What in tarnation am I doing?!
Kate nodded slowly, unsure of how this was going...
Kaku took a deep breath. "I wouldn't have done any of the things I've done for you for anyone else. I haven't been trying to get to know you during our time here just for the sake of staying under cover. I-" He leaned in closer to her, his knees shaking beneath him. "Kate, I'm tired of lying. To you." He looked down briefly, unsure if he was making any sense.
Kate leaned back, her tears now disguised within the redness of her cheeks. "What do you mean...?"
Kaku began to rub the back of his head again. "The reason I've been pulling away is because...I like you a lot, Kate. I wish that this wasn't just a lie. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I want..." He looked at her, a worried expression on his face as he screamed internally.
What should I say?! You're the bee's knees?! The cat's pajamas?! Apple of my eye?! I lo-
Kate sat there shocked as Kaku pressed his lips against hers.
His kiss was gentle, warm, and everything she had imagined.
She closed her eyes, wanting to savour the moment in case it was a dream.
Kaku could feel his body shiver. He'd been holding himself back for so long. He'd lost count of the times he had pictured what it'd be like to feel Kate this way, and it was better than anything he had ever thought. His first kiss with his first love.
They opened their eyes at the same time, catching their breath. They looked at each other for a moment before Kate began to laugh.
Kaku's face began to burn. "Gosh. I'm sorry. I shouldn't have-" he stopped as Kate continued to laugh covering her face slightly. Kaku tried to see around the barrier she had created, curious to know what she was laughing at.
"Kate? Why are you laughing?" A million thoughts ran through his head. He had never kissed anyone before... Maybe he did something wrong?
But I've always practiced on my hand! Ah geeze...
Kate caught her breath, still turned away from Kaku. "I'm sorry, it's just... I'm so happy." She finally faced him, revealing the tears falling down her face. "I've wanted you for so long." She gently wiped her face with her fingers.
He continued to look at her puzzled. "Is that also why you were laughing so hard?" He couldn't help but still feel somewhat embarrassed.
She shook her head as she pointed behind them. "It seems we're on the wrong hill."
The fireworks went off in the distance, filling the sky with vibrant displays of light. "It could've been one of those movie moments."
Kaku laughed and stroked her cheek. "Nope. This was even better."