Enjoy the latest chapter, everyone! ^.^
Thursday comes and unlike other days, today at early morning the City of Kuoh is already experiencing a heavy rain that's soaking it to the extent that flooding could occur at any given moment. Lightning strikes can occasionally be seen in the south followed by the booming thunder sound. It is now near lunchtime, and the rain hasn't let up in the slightest.
In the house of the Makasha's, Nawin is seated by the edge of Asia's bed, staring down at her flustered face, short breathing pattern, and tint red nose with concern etched on his face. He brings the wet towel from the bowl and gently places it on her forehead. "Get well, Asia" he whispers, grasping the blonde's right hand, giving it a soft squeeze.
The young girl woke up this morning to find herself getting a cold which no doubt is caused by the rainy weather for the past few days. With Asia being blind, her body isn't as healthy as the rest and receiving common sickness like this becomes more likely.
Nawin decided to skipped school today to look after his sister. Akeno and Lucy already left together in the morning. His parents are currently out to the center of the city for groceries and getting the sick blonde some medicine.
"Huh," Nawin release a tired sigh, bringing his left hand to his face "This week has been utter torture," he mutters, massaging his eyes, a noticeable black bag can be seen underneath the eyes to indicate the lack of sleep he's been receiving. Sighing once more, Nawin removes the hand from his face to look toward the window, seeing the heavy rain pouring from outside. "I hate this rain," he whispers in stoic tone "Ever since this weather arrived nothing good has happened here... The irony is that I love rains." Nawin chuckles dryly before returning gaze to his sister and takes notice someone else napping beside her.
The Makasha smile at their dog, watching Sairis cuddling beside the sick blonde in an almost guarding way. "You really are a weird dog, Sairis," Nawin utters, extending his left hand to the pup and gently stroke its head, making her breathe in content and lean to the touch.
Pulling back from the puppy, Nawin releases Asia's hand to stand up quietly. He looks to see her in deep slumber. "Sleep will do her good," he utters, picking up an empty bowl that used to be filled with chicken soup then exit the room, gently shutting the door behind.
Nawin descent the stairs and heads to the kitchen. Placing the bowl in the sink, he turns the tap on and grabs the scrub to proceed cleaning the bowl. After done with the task, he heads to the leaving room and collapse on one of the couches.
'What is this feeling,' Nawin's eyes narrow, staring at the dark ceiling in a dimly lit living room 'I've been getting this... Ominous atmosphere since waking up. Something isn't rig-" the Makasha's eyelids start dropping, sleepiness takes over his body after days of getting virtually none. Not willing to fight it, knowing that Asia is now eaten and sleeping, Nawin let himself fall into a void of slumber.
School
"Asia's not well?" Issei asks taking a bite of a cheeseburger. The Occult club members are currently having lunch in their building. Some are absent in the room, being Senna, Momo, Akame, Kokoro, and Elise. Either because they aren't a member or have other priorities. "Yes," Akeno confirm, taking a sip of tea before placing it on the table "She's contracted a cold" "Considering the weather," Yuuto speaks, indicating to the rain hitting the building's roof to create a thudding noise "It is not a surprise."
"Is that why Nawin-senpai is absent?" Xenovia question "To look after her?" "Yes, he insisted," Akeno says through her expression grimace afterward. Rias catches this "He doesn't want to be here, does he?" "Yes, even though he didn't outright say it. I got the clear impression he isn't interested in coming to school today..." "He's been down lately," Riser throws in, chewing on some tuna maki "And it is bugging me not to know what's the cause" "Aww, your concern for him?" Issei tease "Yeah, because I can actually call him a friend... Unlike you, Hyoudou."
Rias has been thinking the whole time, who's also greatly concern for the Makasha's sudden behavior change. She has been thinking back of what the cause for the past days could be, and one thing or to be more precise, one person always comes up to match with the question. Opening her eyes, Rias turn to Akeno "Do you think Misako is the cause?" she questions "Yes," the Himejima swiftly answers, nodding "That answer has been on my mind, and all the evidence points to it. Ever since Misako ran out that night and hadn't attended school since... Nawin-kun has been acting down, no doubt due to concern and something more" "Something more?" Issei repeats "There has to be more in the picture because Nawin-kun can't be this down only because of Misako's illness" Akeno reply strongly, convince with the fact.
"Yes," Rias nod, agreeing with her friend "There's something more to it" "Do you think this something could relate to Misako running out on Akeno-senpai's birthday?" Yuuto adds "Possible, it could be half of it since she did start getting sick so what Nawin-kun told us about her not feeling well and had to leave is true, but I wager he was only telling half of the story" "Why though?" Koneko asks "That is the mystery..." Akeno utters, biting her nail in annoyance.
Issei finishes his burger and seals the lid back in the lunchbox. "Well," he starts taking a sip of water before placing the bottle down "Why don't we just go visit Misako after school? We really should see how she's doing and if she's feeling well enough asks her. Because I doubt we'll get answers from Nawin" "That isn't a bad idea, admittedly," Riser replies, "We can do that," Rias nod "But, we aren't forcing anything out from her. If she doesn't feel comfortable answering them, then we let it be."
Makasha's Household
"Uh!" Nawin snaps his eyes open and jolts up from the couch by the sound of the house phone audibly ringing in the hallway, echoing throughout the silent house. Letting out a yawn and scratching his head, Nawin drops his feet to the ground, sitting on the couch. "Damn," he whispers, holding his face "Shouldn't have taken a nap... Now I bloody feel even worse." Nawin takes a deep breath then exhales, before standing up and quickly make way to the hallway.
Stopping in front of the wooden table stand that holds the house phone. 'Wonder who would be calling the house phone...' Nawin answers it, placing the phone at his right ear "Hello?" "Nawin? That you?" Akira's voice comes from the other end "Yeah, it's me" the Makasha answers, a bit perplex to hear from Misako's father of all people.
Though, Nawin's eyes widen when hearing in the background, a sound of a woman weeping near the father. Immediately, the wave of ominous feeling from before blasts past the Makasha like a tsunami. Cold sweat starts forming on his forehead as he takes a silent gulp.
"Listen," Akira speaks in a solemn tone that did not help the Makasha's nerve "I was going to inform your parents about this to tell you, but since you are home... Something happened last night" he informs. Nawin never expected to hear such a somber tone from a man that is always energetic and bright. All of these signs just keep wrecking with the Makasha's mind, and he is afraid of the answer to the cause.
"What happened?" Nawin asks "There was an accident last night... Misako was hit by a car on the way home... I-I don't know what she was doing outside, but it happened a few blocks from our house" Akira informs though heavyhearted tone.
Nawin feels his whole world just freeze in time. Akira's words repeat in his mind like a broken record. His heart rate starts beating rapidly, the cold sweat drips down his face, his legs shaking ever slightly, his breathing pattern grows short. "N-no, that can't be... S-she" a flashback of last night replays in the Makasha's mind, seeing her crying face and sorrow smile "I-it can't be..."
"You are... a dear friend of hers, it seems right for you to be the first to know. She's in Kuoh Hospital." With that said, Akira hangs up the phone, disconnecting the line. Nawin drops the phone to the ground and takes a few steps back before finding himself hitting the wall. "N-no," he whispers, staring at the ceiling with wide eyes that holds many raw emotions.
'I-I always make you worry, don't I?' 'I never w-wanted to be born like t-this' Misako's word from last night comes hitting the Makasha's mind. Nawin grips his head and opens his eyes to show those glowing red orbs blazing in rage. "Ahhh!" he cries out in anger and thrust a right hand forward, punching right through the thick wall. On the other side, the hand penetrates into the living room.
"You don't deserve any of this, Misako!" Nawin shouts, ripping his hand out "You don't deserve this kind of life! I won't allow it! NEVER AGAIN!" he yells, clenching his hands so tightly that the knuckles turn white and blood starts dripping down from the nails piercing the skin.
Nawin was about to rush out, but he stops and turns around to look up the stairs, remembering Asia still in bed and sick. Reaching to the jean's pocket, Nawin pulls out his phone and tap on Akeno's contact before bringing the device up to his ear. After a few rings, the Himejima picks up "Hello, Nawin-kun?" she speaks, confuse by the sudden call "Class is about to b-" "I don't care," Nawin cuts in with a sharp tone, surprising the Himejima "I-is something wrong?" "I want you to come home, Akeno, right now. I need to head out to the hospital, and I don't want to leave Asia here alone. Mom and Dad aren't back yet" "W-why the hospital?" "Misako got hit by a car last night, I need to head out now."
Nawin heads to the front door, grabbing a black coat from the hanger "O-oh my, i-is she-" "I don't know! That's why I'm heading out now to see how she's doing. Come home now" Nawin says once more before hanging up. He puts on the coat and opens the door to head outside.
The cold air hits him the moment he steps out. "Damn, the rain hasn't let up" Nawin utters, seeing it still pouring down. "I need to head there now," Nawin dashes out into the rain then jumps up to blast himself to the skies before moving to the right where Kuoh Hospital is located, near the center of the city.
Kuoh Hospital
With the massive storm still ongoing, the outdoor area of the hospital is entirely barren of people, with all taking shelter inside. Nawin comes blasting down from the sky like a raging meteorite and lands with a thunderous force that produces a booming noise and causes the ground to crack on impact.
Nawin slowly rises to his feet, thoroughly soak in the rain, but didn't give a care. Shifting to the left, he makes way towards the entrance while blinking once and revert the glowing red eyes to the usual dark brown.
The two front receptionist is startled away from their computers when the entrance door slides open. They release a surprised gasp when seeing the soak up Makasha enter with a sharp and stoic expression plaster on his face that alarm some of the people in the waiting area away.
Nawin quickly makes way to the front desk and looks at one of the receptionists "Misako Ichiru! What room is she in?" he asks in a hurried tone "P-please w-wait a moment," the woman quickly types the name in the computer "Room A2-" "Thanks." Nawin dashes toward the stairs and runs up the steps while avoiding the obstacle of people. With every distance he gains closer to Misako, Nawin's heart picks up a beat from worry and anxiety. It has been a long time since he held this kind of feeling and he doesn't miss it one bit. Instead, he would want to forget it.
'Misako... Please be ok!' Nawin makes it to the second floor and stops at the first door, panting lightly before looking forward to noticing something is wrong. "What?" he whispers when seeing the name under the number plate on the door "Kota Tenshi... Damn," Nawin utters, realizing that he didn't let the receptionist finished her reply.
Signing, he turns right to see the rest of the rooms down the hall "She is on this floor." Nawin begins walking through the hall, scanning by the passing names written on the number plates. "Uh," he halts at the end of the hallway, at the last door and recognizes the name written on the plate "Misako Ichiru..." Nawin whispers and looks up to only have his whole-body freeze in shock.
"...N-no..." Nawin utters, silently gulping as an expression of horror morph on his face. What's shown in front of the Makasha is a very familiar number, "A25..." he whispers, taking a few unsteady steps back before finding his back hitting the wall. Shards of memories come hitting at his head like splinters 'N-no, don't leave me, p-please!' 'S-sorry, N-Nawin... I-I can't be w-with y-' "Stop it!" Nawin shouts, gripping his head "I don't want to remember! Leave me alone!"
Nawin opens his eyes, looking at the number plate and then at the name "Misako..." he whispers "P-please don't do this to me." Standing in the hallway, the Makasha just stare at the number plate, terrified to enter the room, scared to see what will be greeting him inside.
Needing to go in, Nawin calms himself by taking a few deep breaths and exhaling. When feeling his heart returning to a steady beat, he walks forward and grabs the cold metal handle, his hand shaking ever slightly. Snapping his eyes open, Nawin slides the door open and enters the room.
"... Misako," Nawin whispers in a solemn tone, tears well up in his eyes by the scene in front. The once bright and cheerful girl that never fails to put a smile on his face is now laid dormant on the white bed, wearing a hospital gown and has a heart rate monitor strap on her chest, the beeping sound rings around the white room. Her right arm is occupied with a cast to hold the broken bones, suggesting she must have gotten out of surgery not long ago. Stitches can be seen on the right side of her forehead, showing a large cut that used to be there. Her skin color is unhealthy pale to the point it looks like she is in death doors, but the steady heart rate showing on the monitor, fortunately, puts that idea to rest.
Tears stream down the Makasha's face as he makes way to the Ichiru's side in shaky steps then takes a seat on a chair placed by the bed. "I'm sorry," Nawin whispers, reaching out to hold Misako's uninjured left hand and brings it to his face, holding it with both hands as he silently weeps "I'm so sorry, M-Misako... I-I should have ch-chased after you... Forgive me."
For a minute straight, the Makasha cries, holding tightly onto his friend's hand, wishing her to wake up and grant him that bright smile. Nawin opens his eyes and looks up at Misako's face, seeing her sleeping soundlessly "I'm so relieved that you're alive, Misako," he whispers, bringing his right hand up to brush off the bangs from her forehead before moving down to cup her cheek "Please wake up soon and give me that smile."
The door suddenly slides open and entering the room is Akira. Nawin stands up, looking alert when spotting Moka on the father's arms. "What happened?" he asks, watching Akira place his wife gently down on the couch "Passed out due to exhaustion" "... I see."
Akira releases a tired sigh, rubbing his eyes before turning around to face the Makasha "We got the call from the hospital at 2am, and we've been here ever since" "I see..." Nawin reply in a stoic tone, tiredness start returning to his eyes and face now that things have calmed down "Was the surgery done recently?" "Yeah, three hours ago." Akira stop at the other side of the bed and stares at his daughter's face, concern lingers in his sapphire-blue eyes "The doctor said she will be out for a while due to lack of energy. Unfortunately, even after the horrific accident, her sickness is still doing its damn job to mess with her body."
Akira returns his sight to the Makasha "You ok?" he asks, noticing the fresh tears "Never assumed you to be a person to cry openly" "Trust me," Nawin walk toward the right end of the room that holds a coat hanger "I hate crying... It always reminds me of memories I rather have buried away."
After hanging the wet coat and wiping his tears, Nawin returns to take a seat beside the Ichiru "But to answer your question... No, I am not fucking ok" he spat, frustration built in his tone "This week has already been an utter nightmare for me... Then this comes along... I'm about to reach my breaking point of losing it."
Akira stares at the young boy with an unreadable expression plastered on his face. Nawin rests his face on his right hand, gritting his teeth in anger. "You blame yourself for this, don't you?" Akira speaks "..." "Not answering? Fine then, because in my view... This is your fault" he says, shocking Nawin "It's your fault that my daughter's sickness has resurfaced, it's your fault that she rounds up getting struck by a car. Because of your blindness to see her love for yo-" "Shut up," Nawin cuts in with a sharp tone, moving his hand away from his face to reveal those glowing red eyes glaring at the older man "I am aware of that. You don't need to rub it in" "And why shouldn't I? You are responsible for my daughter laying in that bed right now with those injuries" "..."
Nawin didn't give a response and just move his gaze to Misako, staring at her face "You don't know a thing about me. You can't even begin to fathom just how painful it is for me to see Misako here. You can throw your stupid rant to the bloody trash for all I care, Akira. Because I'm not going to feel guiltier from your words since frankly, I could give two shits about your opinion. All I care about is Misako and her opinion."
The look of shock is written all over Akira's face after listening to the Makasha's reply. He sees the boy isn't breaking down by his statements, seeing him staying strong and levelheaded for Misako's sake. Instead of feeling upset, Akira respects the boy more for what he says, it proves that he genuinely cares for his daughter and will do good by her side. 'Everyone makes mistakes, more so with the young. But, I know Nawin is a kind of person that will make up for his mistakes no matter what... Just like his father.'
"You're right," Akira exhales, taking a seat on a chair across the other side "You've already got enough going on in that head of yours. Nevertheless, I still want to say thank you... For coming here," he utters in a sincere tone, staring at his daughter "It means a lot to Misako" "Yeah... I know" Nawin replies, firmly holding the Ichiru's hand.
Makasha's Household
"I-I can help!" "No! You're still sick!" Akeno exclaims, pushing Asia back to the bed. The blonde was immediately ready to take action the moment Akeno was done explained about Misako's accident when she questioned where her brother disappeared to. Asia was about to speak but instead turns her head around, away from the Himejima and lets out a squeaky sneeze.
Akeno shakes her head "My point proven, you are in no shape to head out and look outside," she points at the window, and Asia follows the movement and enhance her hearing sense to listen at the heavy rain pouring outside "It's storming out there, and the only way for us to get there is flying... I'm not letting you get soak in the rain" "B-but," "No," Akeno inserts firmly "I know you're concern about Misako but remember you aren't well yourself Asia and I'm not only indicating to your cold but to your whole well being... Your body isn't as durable as before" "... Ok," Asia utters, nodding solemnly "I understand."
Asia lies comfortably down on the bed, grabbing the top of the blanket and drag it up to cover her whole body. Akeno returns to seat on the chair, sighing in frustration at the current situation. She is very concern for her lover and Misako. It doesn't help that Nawin hasn't sent her even a text to say that everything is fine. Akeno is also worry for his own wellbeing, knowing he hasn't been mentally well for the past few days and could snap if worse cast scenario hits.
Reaching for her phone on the bedstand, Akeno swipes it to open and sees zero messages. She hasn't told Rias or the rest about Misako's accident since she was in such a rush to get back here, bolting out of the school with an umbrella at hand to get here as quick as possible. "Huh," she exhales and turns the screen off, placing the phone back on the counter.
"Why are Mama and Papa taking so long?" Asia asks, "Probably because of the traffic from the main city" Akeno replies, staring out at the window "Considering it is raining the traffic back here must be horrendous" "Ah, that makes sense."
"Akeno-nee..." Asia speaks out, making the older girl shifts to her, wearing a soft smile at being called sister from the young blonde "Onii-chan said that he would help Misako today... Why is fate being so cruel to him?" she asks. Akeno is stunned by the unexpected question, not sure how to answer such a thing "I-I... I don't know, Asia" she says, truthfully, looking down at her hands rested on her lap "It is impossible for me to say why this week has been tough for all of us, especially towards your brother and Misako. But," Akeno looks up at the blonde, giving her a smile "I believe he will overcome it... Just like he always does with our enemies."
Asia smile and nod, believing the Himejima's words "Yeah... My Onii-chan is the strongest and smartest. He'll be able to help Misako and bring her back to school" "He surely will."
A sound of the front door opening immediately rings at the two girl's ears, and both turn to the room's open door. "They're back!" Asia exclaims with excitement before sneezing once again which cause Akeno to giggle before standing up "I'll go inform them about Misako" "Will you be heading out now?" "Yeah," Akeno stops by the door, nodding "I need to go to the hospital to give Nawin-kun some support."
Yao sets the two groceries bag on the ground to take out her shoes, placing it in the shoe cabinet and was about to pick the bags again, but stops when hearing footsteps come from the stairs. She looks up and blinks in surprise, seeing Akeno standing on the floor, holding a troubling expression. "Akeno? What are you doing home so early?" she asks while Jonathan pops out from the kitchen after putting the bags down on the table, he too looks confused by the Himejima appearance "Did school let out early today?" "No... It's not that."
Akeno takes a deep breath and looks at the two "I don't know the whole details, but I got a call from Nawin-kun not long ago to ask me to hurry back here because he needed to go to the hospital" she starts "Why?" Yao asks, "He's ok, right?" Jonathan inserts "It's not for him... He told me that Misako was struck by a car last night" Akeno answers.
Both the Father's and Mother's expression morph to horror by the news. "Christ," Jonathan utters "W-what's her status?" Yao asks, greatly concern "I don't know," Akeno grimace "Nawin-kun hasn't texted me an update on it, so please" she looks up at the parent "I need to head to the hospital now. I'm sure Nawin-kun needs some support. I would have head out earlier, but Asia is still bedridden, and it isn't safe to leave her alone."
Jonathan nods "Let's do this then," he speaks, looking at the girls "You two head to the hospital in the car to check up on Misako and Nawin. I'll stay here and look after Asia" "Yeah," Yao agrees with the plan and turns to Akeno "Let's leave now then" "Of course."
Kuoh Hospital
Akira opens his eyes when a sound of a groan emits behind. Uncrossing his arms and standing up, he turns and smiles to see his wife waking up from her slumber. Moka rubs her forehead and slowly sits up, dropping her legs to the ground.
"Here," Akira offers a cup of water "Thanks," Moka takes the cup with a smile before sipping all the cold liquid down in one go, showing her thirst. "Ah," she sighs pleasantly and places the cup on the table beside the couch. Moka turns to her daughter and blinks when noticing another person there "Oh," she smiles and stands up to get a better look at the scene.
Akira smirk and turns around to also gaze at the scene. The parent watches the sleeping Nawin resting his upper body on the bed, just next to Misako and have her left hand close to his face, holding it with both hands in a protective manner. The Mother and Father can even spot the tiniest of smiles on Misako's face that they haven't seen earlier.
"It's a shame," Moka speaks, resting her hands on her hips, smiling sadly "Those two looks really cute together," "Yeah," Akira nods in agreement "They really are..." "Oh?" Moka looks at her husband, smiling in amusement "You actually agreed!" "Huh," Akira scoff, crossing his arms and turning his head to the side, a look of fluster shows on his cheeks "If I were to have my little girl to date, someone, then Yao's son would be the one I'd allow." Akira sighs, smiling sincerely and turns back to the scene "He's a good kid and has a heart in the right place. Misako picked the right boy" "Yeah," Moka nod, standing beside the bed and gently strokes her daughter's cheek "But sadly they can't be together" "Yeah..."
Misako brings her arm back and glances at Akira "When I was asleep... You didn't say anything harsh to Nawin, did you?" she asks, knowing her husband's explosive temper "I did." Akira sighs, scratching the back of his head, looking at the sleeping Makasha "I blamed him, but in truth, I don't... I can't put the blame on him for any of this. It would be asinine of me. Sadly, this is just how life plays out" "Yes," Moka nod, turning to look at Nawin "He has done so much for our daughter. Even if he makes a mistake, it will never be intentional" "Yeah... I know."
Moka and Akira turn when the door slides open, and in walks Akeno and Yao, both slightly soak by no doubt the rain. "Yao!" Moka utters, surprised by her friend's appearance "Moka!" the Makasha rush to her friend's side to give a hug "I've just heard about Misako," she says, pulling back "You ok?" "Yeah," Moka gives a reassure smile "I'm doing fine," "Good."
Yao turns to Misako and lets out a gasp at her current state of appearance "How's her condition?" she asks, releasing her friend to walk towards the bed, stopping beside it "She's stable now," Akira answers, crossing his arms "Got out of the surgery this morning," "What kind of injury did she sustain?" Akeno asks, stopping beside Yao.
Moka stops in front of the bed, looking at her sleeping daughter "The car struck her from the right, so her right arm's bone was dislocated and injured. Several of her ribs cracked and she suffered a mild concussion from her head smacking on the road" "Goodness," Yao utters in horror, looking sadly down at the young girl.
"What happened to the driver?" Akeno asks, her tone turns dark at mentioning the person responsible for this incident "It was a couple, and unfortunately for them, they were intoxicated" Moka informs "The idiots had fifteen empty bottles of beers stashed in their car" Akira spat. "With this fact discovered, both are already in custody, and will be in jail for a long time" "Good," Akeno nod, "Let them rot there."
"They did have some sense of moral," Moka state "Even though I don't have sympathy for them since drunk driving is just idiocy and any ordinary people should know it is a stupid thing to do. But, instead of escaping from the crime scene they called the hospital" "Really?" Yao asks "Yes," "Guess you are right, but I also think it is because of the fact they can't hide. Kuoh isn't a big city so finding them would be inevitable. Plus, I believe they make the right call turning themselves in because if they did decide to escape, then they'll be having Akira or Nawin chasing them." "Ahaha," Moka giggles a bit "That's true, and those two are worse than the cops" "They'll have all their bones broken before they are thrown in the cell if it was me, that's for sure" Akira state.
Hearing the name of her lover spoken, Akeno looks and spot him sleeping beside Misako. She goes around and is slightly surprised when seeing him holding the Ichiru's hand in a way that made her heart skip a beat. Akeno shakes her head slightly and smiles, just glad to see he is fine and resting, something he sourly needs. Akeno was aware of Nawin not being able to sleep properly for the past few days and it is one of the many things that got her worried. 'Guess seeing Misako has set him at ease... I'm glad he's doing better than I feared.'
Akeno notices her lover's face start twitching, showing signs he is about to wake up. She leans down and gently grasp his shoulder "Nawin-kun," she whispers and sees his eyes slowly opens. "Uh," Nawin groans and slowly sits up, letting go of Misako's hands to massage his forehead, leaning back in the chair.
"Sleep well?" Akira question, smirking "Can't complain," Nawin brings his arms down, opening his eyes "A real sleep I had in days" he informs. With his sight adjusted, rid of all the blurriness, Nawin blinks when noticing his mother and Akeno are present. "When did you two go here?" he asks "Just recently, honey" Yao reply, wearing a soft smile "You doing ok?" "Yeah, I'm hanging in there."
"How's Asia?" Nawin asks, turning to Akeno "Still recovering. She actually wanted to come here and help, but I was able to convince her to return to bed" "Ah, I see." "It's better that way," Moka speaks up, making the teenagers turn to her "Sacred gears depend its usage on their wielders health state. Even if Asia's sacred gear is to heal others, it can do the opposite effect if she's unable to control it. It is similar in a way if you are too weak you'll be unable to summon the sacred gear" "I never knew that," Akeno utters, surprised by the new fact while Nawin nods, also never hearing of this "Then it's good she stayed in bed" "Indeed."
Nawin tries to stand up and stop midway when a sound of his stomach growl loudly around the room. He blinks and turns flustered while Akeno and the adults chuckle. "It is long past lunch now," Yao state, looking at the clock before shifting back to her son "Why don't we head down to fetch some early dinner? I'm sure you three are hungry" she state, indicating to Moka and Akira as well.
"Sounds good," Akira nod "We hadn't even had breakfast today" "Now that everything has calmed down," Moka speaks, smiling bashfully, rubbing her tummy "I am mighty staving at the moment." Akeno giggles and grab Nawin's hand, giving him a bright smile "Let's go get some food in you" "Yeah," he smiles, holding the Himejima's soft hand firmly "Sounds good."
Time Skip
Nawin, Akeno, Yao, Moka, and Akira decided to have dinner in a small Japanese restaurant that recedes inside the hospital. Considering the odd time, the place was nearly empty with only a few tables occupied.
"Schools ended a few hours ago," Akeno assert, looking at her phone for the time "Should I inform the others about Misako?" she asks, looking toward the parent. Moka shakes her head "Not today. When Misako wakes up, there shouldn't be a room full of people. It would be too much" "I understand," Akeno nods, closing the phone and return it to her skirt's pocket. Moka steals a glance toward Nawin, who is looking at the television, his eyes clearly show his mind is elsewhere 'When Misako wakes up... The first person she should see is him.'
Nawin stares blankly through the mirrors, looking at some of the patients being a guide to their rooms or being push on the wheelchair. Suddenly, static memories come hitting out of nowhere followed by the voices. 'W-where is she?!' 'Who young boy? And where are you in such a hurry?' a voice of an older man asks, concern for the child 'S-she's hurt! Tell me where she is?! She is here! Please!' the young boy's voice cries 'W-what's her name, child? Tell me, and I-I can check where she is' 'H-Her name is Mi-' his reply is cut off when Nawin snap out of it, not wanting even to hear the name.
Gritting his teeth and glaring at the walls, Nawin's expression turn to resentment 'I hate hospital.' Feeling his body shaking slightly, Nawin takes a deep breath and exhales, trying to calm his heart. He is surprised when a warm hand touches his, giving a comforting squeeze. "You ok?" a loving voice asks, and Nawin turns to see Akeno looking at him with a warm smile, her glistering violet eyes shows care and warmth. Seeing this, Nawin feels himself calming down and a smile makes way to his face, squeezing the Himejima's hand back "Yeah, with you here it makes things easier" "I'll always be here to help you, Nawin-kun" "I know," he replies and leans in to give a soft peck on Akeno's lip. "Thanks for putting up with me with these past few days" "I always have the patience for you, Nawin-kun, always."
Time Skip
The group was forced to spend a couple of hours in the restaurant when the doctor called and informed that they won't be able to visit Misako since it was her checkup time. The doctor and nurse spend some time to examine the Ichiru's condition, checking the injuries, and providing her some pills to hopefully keep her sickness subsided.
When nearing 6pm, the doctor notified the group that they can return to the room, but unfortunately, they also were told that Misako still hasn't regained consciousness and it is likely that'll stay the same for today.
Currently, the four are back in the room A25. One person that is absent is Yao, who is still out to fetch herself some water. "Seems like the rain is letting down," the mother state after taking a drink of a bottle of water and twist the cap closed. Stopping in front of the door, Yao strays her eyes away from the window at the end of the hallway and to the door. "Uh?!" she gasps in shock when setting sight on the plate number of the room.
"A25" Yao mutters, and a memory that she instead wants to be left buried resurface. The memory of her and Jonathan dashing through the long hallway, both holding a look of frantic and anxious on their face. Then, they stop at a specific room and open the door to see a scene they will never forget.
'N-no,' 'It can't be,' both parents utter, standing by the doorway like a stone. Looking at their son holding the pale and dead girl to his chest, the white shirt he wore soak in blood. His cries ring around the dark room as the doctor and nurses look at him in silence with regret in their face. "Uh," Yao blinks and shakes her head, pushing back those horrid memories "No... It's in the past. She's gone" she whispers in sadness.
Taking a moment to regain composure, Yao takes a deep breath and exhales before grabbing the handle and slides the door open, entering the room and shuts the door behind. Taking a few steps forward, she turns and is in time to catch Moka letting out a yawn then leans on Akira for support, both sited on the couch. Yao's eyes narrow and check the clock to see it is almost 6:30. "I think it is best that all of us head home for today," the Makasha state, causing everyone to turn to her "Especially you two" she points at Moka and Akira "Both of you have been here all day... It's time the two of you went home, take a shower and head to bed for a long night sleep" "B-but," Moka tries to speak but gets cut off "No, Moka. You heard the doctor, he said that Misako won't regain conscious today. Just head home and get some rest. You can return here earliest tomorrow if you want" Yao assert strongly but also in concern for her friend.
Akira sighs and nods, turning to his wife "She has a point... Let's head home and get some rest, honey." Moka turns to her sleeping daughter, biting her lip before she nods, giving in "Alright," she exhales, turning to Yao "We'll do that" "Good."
Yao turns to her children, and Nawin immediately catches it and shakes his head "I'm not leaving this room," he affirms, surprising everyone except his mother, who saw this coming a mile away. She sighs and gives the nod, knowing there's no convincing him to change his mind. Nawin turns to Akeno, who's been sitting next to him, holding his hand "You should go home too, Akeno" he says "A-are you sure?" she turns to look him in the eyes, worry shown in those violet orbs. "I can stay" "I know you can, but I don't want you to be here, sleeping on uncomfortable furniture just for my sake. You also have school, and since I dragged you out early today, it is best you head there tomorrow without absence."
Akeno was about to speak but stop when feeling a hand grasp her shoulder, making her turn to see Yao wearing a soft smile "He made his decision, Akeno. Let Nawin be here with Misako." The Himejima reluctantly gives in and turns to her lover to give him a kiss, which he returns. She pulls back and smiles "Please stay safe" "I will."
Gathering their things, the four head to the exit. Akira slides the door open, and before leaving, he turns to Nawin "Keep a close eye on our little girl, got it, kid?" "Nothing will happen to her" Nawin firmly replies and watch the parent nod, giving him a grateful smile then exits the room.
Yao walks back to her son to give him a kiss on the forehead, then pulls back, wearing that loving smile "Take care, honey" she whispers "Thanks, Mom. I will" he replies with his own smile. Feeling content, Yao heads to the door and exits the room. The last to leave is Akeno, and Nawin turns to her, giving a warm smile "Goodnight, Akeno" "Goodnight, Nawin-kun... See you tomorrow" she replies before exiting the room and slowly slide the door shut.
Nawin stares at the door, and his smile slowly drops "... I'm sorry, Akeno" he whispers, memorizing that bright smile she gave before leaving, noticing how much it was forced. He knows she really wanted to stay by his side tonight. "But," he turns to Misako, firmly holding her hand "I need to correct my mistake... Right now, Misako is my priority. I ignored her long enough... I let her run away twice, and it has ended badly. I'm not going to let there be a third time."
Feeling exhausted and having nothing to do. Nawin decides just to sleep and get a full night rest. Leaning his head down on the bed and bringing Misako's hand close by, firmly holding it. Nawin closes his eyes and slowly drifts away to the world of slumber.
Dream State
In a void of darkness and emptiness sits a figure right in the center. The figure belongs to none other than Misako, who is sitting there, alone with legs rested on her chest and her head buried on the knees. She weeps silently with tears flowing down her legs.
"W-why... Why is my l-life so unfair" she quietly cries out "I-it hurts... It hurts so much." Suddenly, gray figures start appearing around the weeping girl, standing around her and all of them wearing a taunting smile. "You are so weird!" "What's with that stuttering?! It makes you look pathetic!" "You want to talk to Nawin-kun? Are you crazy?!" "Yeah, like he would care to give even a minute of his time to you!" "You're so weak and frail!" "You will only drag him down! Like a pathetic anchor!" "Just go back to bed and die!"
Different voices from the figures constantly insult and discourage the crying girl. Misako brings her hands over her ears to block the harsh comments, shaking her head "N-no! Please stop! Leave me alone!" "We are all part of your subconscious!" "You are thinking of all these things!" "Ahahaha, you are so pitiful!" the figures continue to throw out their harsh words, all the while wearing those menacing grins.
"Kyaaaaaaaaaaa!" Misako screams out, crying loudly "Please! Someone help!" "No one will!" "You are always alone!" "You'll die alone!" "Hehehe, you'll die soon enough. That sickness will get to you! Your heart will just shut down, and you will die!"
Misako's eyes snap open, and those sapphire-blue orbs scream of pain. "Ahhhh!" she yells out in agony, her hands move to her chest, feeling the heart beating rapidly and the pain resurfaces. She hunches forward, sitting on her knees and cries in pain, tears streaming down her cheeks and dripping to the ground.
The figures grin widely, enjoy seeing the suffering and pain befall on Misako. They were about to advance when a blinding light gold shines from the side, causing all of them to turn. They are left to gasp by the beautiful figure of a man standing there, his entire body is covered in sparkling golden light.
The man takes a step forward and disappears in a golden flash to reappear in front of the Ichiru. "Ahhhhhh!" all the figures scream in agony by being near contact with the light before all disperse away in smoke. The man kneels to the girl level and looks at her with glowing white eyes.
"Misako," the golden figure speaks, and Misako looks up, hearing an unmistakable voice "N-nawin-kun?" she utters in stun "Please wake up," he says, bringing his right hand up to cup her cheeks "Wake up for me. I have so much I want to tell you. Get out of this horrible world you built in your mind because you aren't pathetic. What you are to me and everyone is a girl with a strong, caring heart even with a frail body. You are never pathetic! So, don't let that word ever enter your mind again. Now please wake up, Misako!" he shouts.
"Ah!" a gasp escape from Misako's mouth and her eyes snap open. She breathes loudly and exhales, feeling her body shaking slightly from the sudden adrenaline of waking up. Misako blinks a couple of time and winces when trying to move her right arm, feeling a sharp pain coursing through the whole arm, then notice the weird heaviness that prevents her from moving it in an ordinarily. When her vision is clear, she glances around to find herself in a hospital room.
Slowly, the memory of that night flashback in her mind. 'I-I was struck by a car...' she remembers and glances at the right arm to see it's on a cast. Misako slowly shifts her head to the left to look at her other arm. Her expression changes to nothing but stun when seeing Nawin sleeping there while holding her hand. She was not expecting the Makasha to be here, but it promptly starts to make sense in her mind. 'That dream,' she thinks as a smile form on her lip 'You... You helped me, Nawin-kun. Because you were here, I was able to escape it.'
Tears well in Misako's eyes, but they are the tears of happiness instead of sadness. She sniffs a bit as her smile widens in joy, gazing at the Makasha with gratefulness and love. She gently gives his hand a squeeze, and that was enough to cause a stir. Nawin opens his eyes to see Misako's hand moving ever slightly, feeling it squeezing his. His expression changes to realization and he quickly sits up, looking and sees Misako is wide awake, bearing that lovely smile.
Nawin mouth is agape, stunned to see the Ichiru is awake. Quickly that open mouth twist into a big smile of relief, his eyes shines in happiness. "Misako," he holds her hand tightly and brings it near his face "You're awake" he whispers, still wondering if this is real or a dream "Sorry to make you worry..." she replies "No, nevermind that. I'm just glad you're awake."
Nawin begins to get alert when spotting fresh tears falling down Misako's glossy eyes. "I-I did it again, didn't I?" she whispers, looking at the front wall, her tears dripping to the bed sheet. "I-I became a burden to you... I made you worry because of how frail and weak my body is. I-I" Misako weeps loudly, all the while Nawin can only stare at her in speechless "I w-wish... I wish I was never born!"
Nawin feels his whole world freeze like the time just pause. His expression morph to horror by Misako's last words. 'T-this is unfair... I wish I was never born' a soft voice cries out those words. An image of her appears and overlaps Misako. Seeing both of them and hearing how similar their words are set Nawin into a slight panic attack. His heart rate increases rapidly and sweats forms all around his body.
"I am sorry, Nawin/Nawin-kun" the Makasha hears both Misako's and her voice speaks to him from the mental and physical plane. "NO!" Nawin shouts, abruptly standing up and push the chair back, making it fly away and crash onto the wall. Misako is startled by this, and before she can utter a word, she is pulled into a hug by the Makasha. Her head rests on his shoulder while his head on hers.
Misako's eyes widen when she hears a familiar sound of sobbing coming from the Makasha. "D-don't ever say that... Please don't ever say that again, Misako" Nawin whispers and pulls back to meet face to face. Misako is left in a loss for words when seeing tears dripping down the Makasha's glossy brown eyes. She can see the immeasurable grief and hurt in them. Nawin cups her cheeks with both hands "Don't say it... Never again. Don't make me go through it again, please" he begs.
Misako has always seen this tranquil but caring and loving expression on Nawin's face whenever they meet each other. But, now that is gone and what replaced it is a sad and almost broken expression of a boy she loves so dearly.
"No matter how weak you are, I still deeply care for you, Misako!" Nawin shouts, his eyes showing fire of determination "Don't ever think of yourself as a shackle or an anchor that will restrain me or keep me down because you aren't! What you are is a dear friend who I love undoubtedly. Who never fails to brighten my days with her cute shenanigans, shining personality, and that beautiful smile."
"Guh," Misako tears up, a smile of joy spreading across her face "N-Nawin-kun..." "Don't ever regret that you were born, Misako" Nawin says, pulling her head to his chest, letting her cry freely onto his shirt "Nothing hurts me more than hearing those words out of your mouth." "I-I'm so sorry," Misako apologize through her cries, hugging him tightly with her left arm "I-I felt so helpless that I just d-didn't want to live anymore" "You aren't helpless because I am here by your side. Now, let all those feelings out, Misako" Nawin ushers, gently stroking the girl's back.
The two stay like this for a couple of minutes. When Nawin hears the sound of a cry left the Ichiru, he pulls back to look at her face, seeing she has calm down. He smiles softly and brings his right hand up to her face and wipes the tears away. Misako offers a small smile and does the same for him, bringing her left hand to clean the dry tears from his eyes.
Nawin leaves the Ichiru side for a moment, getting uncomfortable by standing on his knees upon the edge of the bed. He grabs the chair on the ground, thankfully not broken, and place it back by the side of the bed then takes a seat. "C-can you still hold my hand?" Misako shyly asks, extending her hand which causes Nawin to blink for a second before letting out a chuckle in amusement then nods "Of course," he says, holding the Ichiru's hand with his right, firmly squeezing it in a comforting manner.
A comfortable now surrounds the room, both Nawin and Misako stare at each other, both holding a warm smile in their faces, squeezing each other hands in content. The heavy rain now comes to an end and instead, soothing winds blow through the city.
"Misako..." Nawin starts, rubbing his thumbs on her hand "I've been thinking a lot about this, and it's been something that's clouding my mind for a long time... But, after this... I think it's time I let you choose what you want to do from now on." Misako tilt her head lightly to the side "What do you mean, Nawin-kun?" "I know a way for you to get stronger and possibly end that sickness of yours" he answers, shocking the girl.
Nawin's been staring at the Ichiru's hand the whole time when speaking. Now, he moves up to look at her in the eyes, giving a sad smile "It's something I have been pushing back for a while, but I can't watch you suffer any longer." Bringing his left hand up and a mutation bishop piece appears on the palm "Misako Ichiru... Will you become my Bishop?"
"N-Nawin-kun..." Misako mutters, stunned by the proposal, staring at the glowing white and black pieces before turning to him "A-are you sure?" "Back then I never wanted this for you because becoming part of my peerage will put you in danger more often than not. I never wanted that life for you so in my mind, I rather you stayed human and lived normally... I thought somehow I could help you through your sickness but what I didn't realize is that I left you there to suffer. I couldn't be with you often because we live in two different worlds. I thought my intention was to your best benefit, but I was wrong... I could have helped you earlier, but instead, I was afraid to because I wasn't confident I would be able to protect you from the dangers in the supernatural world."
Nawin squeezes the Ichiru's hand and gives a warm smile "I can't return your feeling Misako, but that doesn't mean I don't love you. You are one of the peoples that I hold dearest, and I'm sorry for not noticing it soo-" "Nawin-kun," Misako cuts in "You may not be able to return your feeling, and that's fine. Akeno-san holds your heart, and there's nothing I can do. I have come to terms with that. But," she smiles brightly "For now, I just want to spend as much time as possible with you and if," she turns to the Bishop piece "If turning me into a devil gives me that and heals me of this illness... Then I would choose that in a heartbeat."
Nawin's smile widens when hearing the answer, a wave of relief washes over him. "You will be my bishop... You will be by my side always, Misako" "Just like Akame?" "Yeah, just like Akame." The piece starts glowing and levitates, traveling toward the Ichiru's chest "Are you ready to join me, Akame, and Hana in the supernatural world, Misako?" "Yes, I am ready, Nawin-kun."
Next Chapter: Adjustment, Old Conflict Of Two Factions