Enjoy the latest chapter, everyone!
In the dark room and seated motionlessly on the edge of the bed, Miraya stares stoically at the screen of her phone to show three calls made to Nawin that's been unanswered. With a deep sigh, she tosses the phone to the bed before rising to her feet. The morning sunlight can be seen desperately peeking through the curtains and shining into the room.
Walking towards the main table and stop in front of it, Miraya reaches her right arm up, but her eyes abruptly widen in pain. "Guh!" she collapses to her knees, but desperately clutches onto the surface of the table to prevent falling entirely onto the floor. Miraya's mouth shakily widens, but her right-hand covers it. Sweat starts dripping down her forehead as she remains there still for a moment, getting her breathing rhythm in check to calm her heart.
After a minute pass by, Miraya releases her mouth to take a full inhale before exhaling. Pushing herself up to her feet using the table, the Culdos looks down and use one of her hand to pull a drawer out. What greets her inside is the beautiful ruby brooch that still lays there on the clean white napkin made of pure silk. Reaching in to grab it, Miraya takes a step back and drops down onto the chair.
Releasing a shaky exhale, Miraya brings the brooch up then opens her eyes to look at it. The pure ruby jewelry is shaped like an oval and fits perfectly in the Culdos's hands. Even in the dark, it shimmers majestically. With a weak smile that's filled with many emotions, Miraya closes her eyes and press her lip onto the brooch. "I don't know how long I can keep doing this, Nawin. Please remember...'
Occult Academy
"What?!" Issei and Xenovia shout simultaneously while Koneko, Gasper, and Yuuto simply stare at Asia in disbelief. Leaning on the desk, Rias stares at her Bishop stood at the center of the room with a sad and regretful gaze. 'So, it happened... Oh, Akeno.'
"B-But," Issei looks to the floor while his hands clenched into fists so tight that the knuckles turn white. 'Everything will be fine.' Those words that he uttered with confident when he saw Nawin's genuine smile at the buffet. He looked happy and optimistic. How can in mere days all come crashing down?
"Why?" Xenovia steps up and grabs Asia by the shoulder "This has to be a joke, right? Nawin-senpai and Akeno were always so close! They love each other dearly!" "Xenovia," Rias calls out when seeing the Makasha was starting to get emotional. Koneko came to her friend's side to help comfort, while Xenovia take a step back then faces at the Gremory. "Why are you wearing that look? Do you know something that we don't?" That draws everyone's attention to Rias.
"Rias?" Issei speaks up, seeing some hesitation in his lover's eyes. With a heavy sigh, Rias looks up at everyone then gives a small nod. "Yesterday, I learned that following our separation after the buffet... Akeno and Miraya had an argument while Nawin was in the house feeding Sairis. Their arguing led to a dispute, and Akeno tried to strike Miraya. Using her powers."
The entire room falls silent as the group gawks at their King in sheer disbelief. "T-that can't be," Gasper whispers out, knowing Akeno for years and always seen her as a kind older sister like Rias. He just finds it impossible to believe Akeno would do such a thing. "Who was the source?" Yuuto inquires "Akame appeared and suddenly punched Akeno. She was livid. I presumed she learned it from Miraya as Nawin-kun isn't one to freely speak out on a matter like that. Lucy was present, so she forced Akeno to reveal everything. So, it's the truth, Yuuto. As much as I wished it wasn't the case. Akeno tried to attack Miraya."
"Is Miraya-san ok?" Issei question "Nawin stepped in before anything could have happened. He left with Miraya after that, and he hasn't been home since" "W-where is he?" Asia begins to tear up more and tries to wipe the drops away with the sleeve of her shirt. "I want to s-see, Onii-chan. I c-couldn't last night because everything just happened so fast. I want to see if he is ok!" Koneko pulls her friend into an embrace while the rest can only stare at the weeping blonde with sorrow.
"Should be we go find Nawin-senpai?" Xenovia speaks up, unable to handle the silence. "I don't know that's wise, Xenovia," Yuuto gives a conflicted look "This is a personal situation. I would feel uncomfortable with us forcibly inserting ourselves into this affair." "Yuuto's not wrong," Rias rubs her forehead "At the end of the day this is between Akeno and Nawin-kun. It's their relationship. Not any of ours." Xenovia clench her hands then looks to the side, unable to give a response.
"Rias," Issei speaks up to gain the Gremory's attention, "Yes?" "I'm sure you are worried about Akeno. It is obvious the person that'll handle this breakup worse will be Akeno. I think you should at least check up on her." Some are surprised by Issei's mature tone and the lack of formality he has when addressing Akeno. It is clear to all of them that he currently holds some anger toward the Himejima. But he still wants her to be safe. "Out of all of us... You should be the one to check on her" "Yeah," Rias gives a smile, "I was thinking of that. I will go to visit her shortly."
Xenovia turns to the Hyoudou. "What are you going to do, Issei?" "Well," Issei leans off the wall and scratches his head, staring spacely at the bookshelf "I want to see how Nawin is doing. He may be more durable than Akeno through the breakup, but it is still a breakup. He loves Akeno dearly so it'll be a hard time for him as well. Finding him will be difficult, but I'm sure it's possible."
Xenovia simply nods as she doesn't have anything to add. "It's best we just leave it at that," Rias state "I know all of you want to do something but like Yuuto said this is a personal matter. We need to respect that." Rias leans off the desk and walk to the center. She stops in front of Asia and kneels, giving a smile; she wipes the blonde's tears away. "How about instead of heading home. You go out with Koneko and Gasper, Asia? Go have some fun" Rias suggest in a sisterly tone. Asia moves her head up "B-but, how can I be a-able to have fun with this happening?" "There's not much any of us can do right now, Asia... Both Akeno and Nawin-kun wouldn't want you to be this sad over their breakup. And being sad won't change anything. Right now, it is too early to do anything to help Akeno and Nawin-kun."
The Gremory's words are able to bring a faint smile to Asia's face as she nods. "Y-yeah," she sniffs "You are right, Buchou." Rias grins and ruffles the Makasha's soft blonde lock before standing back up. With a single look send to Koneko and Gasper, Rias made it clear that she wants both of them to do whatever it takes to have Asia smile and laugh for the rest of the day. Even though she knew she didn't need to do that since the three were so close, Rias wants to affirm the idea that she wants Asia to be happy. Seeing her Bishop sad is just something that should not be.
"Alright," Rias takes a deep breath and exhales before shifting to her lover, giving him a comforting smile even though it is a bit forced. Right now, her mind is simply in shambles with the shocking news, but she had to stay strong. "Issei, go find Nawin-kun and check if he's doing fine. Just keep in mind not to push him for information, ok?" "I won't," Issei nods "Good." Rias turns to her Knight and give an apologetic smile "Sorry that you two can't do anything to help with this" "It is fine," Yuuto shakes his head and give a reassuring smile "Don't worry about us, Buchou. Please go check on Akeno-senpai. I am worried for her mental health" "I am too..."
Underworld
Like always, there is a cloudy and shadowy weather above Grago. The Capital of the Fallen Angel Faction. Countless of trained guards are either stationed on the ground, in front of the gates or patrolling on top of the tall metal walls, scouting out for any threats.
"Hmm?" One of the soldier's blinks through the binocular as he spots a dark figure approaching the North Gate. "We got a suspicious person coming!" he shouts from above to alert the guards on the ground "Be on guard!" "We got it!" A group of six soldiers all stop in front of the opened gate with light-weapons in hand. Eyes set on the unknown individual as they a few feet away from them.
"Uh?!" "I-Isn't that-" "What's he doing here?!" As the dark clouds move away to allow just the slightest ray of sun to shine in the land for a moment. The guards are able to identify the person who stood in front of them is none other than the Black Flash. All of the men quickly take note at the rather rough state the Makasha is in. Tired eyes, shaggy hair, and that known stoic expression is now nothing but exhaustion and anger that does send intimidation to the Fallen Angels.
"Take me to Azazel," Nawin plainly request "What?!" One of the men holding a lance bark back in annoyance "The hell you think you are?! Waltz down here and demand to meet with Lord Azazel?" Nawin doesn't flinch and takes a step forward to appear behind the soldiers in pure speed. He simply continues advancing towards the gate. The Fallen Angels gasp in shock by the speed Nawin displayed, but they quickly react by turning around and charges.
"Uh!" Nawin is suddenly slammed to the ground by a hand clutch to the back of his head. A sharp knee is pressed painfully deep into his back. "C-Captain Akari!" The Fallen Angels instantly stop in their track and stare in shock and fear by the sudden appearance of the Crimson Reaper. With her unmistakable crimson cloak fluttering from the wind, Akari's cold and icy blue eyes stare down at Nawin's brown orbs, which is glaring up at her.
Puffing a smoke, Akari keeps a firm hold and pushes down until Nawin's cheek touch the ground. "Surprise to see you here, Black Flash. What's the rush?" "..." Akari raises an eyebrow at the silence. She examines and notices how there's no fire in those brown eyes. Seeing that brings a particular feeling of disappointment in the Captain. This person she has restrained below earned a decent amount of her respect after their battle in the tournament. Now here he is, looking exhausted and conflicted.
"C-captain?!" the men shout in shock when Akari releases Nawin and gets off of him. "Silence," Akari retorts, and instantly, the soldiers complied. Nawin slowly raises to his feet and stare at the Captain with caution eyes. "What are you doing here?" Akari demands, puffing another smoke while resting a hand on her slender hip. "Azazel," "First, your sister, and now you?" Akari raises an eyebrow "We are close to Azazel. I need to meet him for personal reasons."
Akari exhales the smoke once more before dropping the cigarette to the ground, crushing it with her boot. "Fine, follow me," "W-wait, Captain!" One of the guards speaks up, "He's the Black Flash! I-I mean be can cause major damage if he's ho-" "If he causes trouble then I'll simply kill him," Akari cuts in with a sharp tone that sends chills down the soldiers' spine "With his current state," Akari looks at the Makasha in the eyes "He wouldn't pose much of a threat to me." Nawin didn't retort and simply glance to the side.
Following Akari through the large gate, Nawin glance over at all the soldiers stepping to the sides to make way. Clearly, the Captain's presence alone sets many unease and tense. They are more afraid of her than even him.
Entering the city, Nawin pulls a hood over his head to conceal his face. "Good idea," Akari comment with a smirk as she glances back to catch what he has done. "After our battle, you have become quite popular here, Black Flash" "Hmm."
"Try out the latest energy drink from Breitol! Their new Super E-Fuel! It'll give you enough energy to last for the entire day!" Nawin glance to the right at the hologram, advertising a product with an adorable teenage girl being the avatar, holding the can drink at him. Ignoring it, Nawin continues to follow the Captain. Though, it is still mindboggling for him to believe that his Godfather created many of these inventions. He may not look like it, but Azazel is a genius and is one of the smartest beings in the Supernatural World.
Crossing the road, Nawin keeps his head low as they pass a group of mercenary looking individuals. "Don't try," Akari speaks up when noticing one of the men has his arm raised, ready to grab the Makasha's shoulder. The Captain didn't stop walking, though glances back to show her icy blue eyes "He's with me. Go mess with someone else." The man flinches then growls in rage, but when those blue eyes intensify, he quickly turns around and rushes off to follow his group.
Akari's eyes set on Nawin to see him looking at her. "Thanks," "... Sure." With a shrug, the Crimson Reaper continues to guide Nawin to Blades Eye. The spectacle building where Azazel's office resides.
With the mirror doors slide to the sides, the pair step into the quiet lobby. Nawin notices four elevators behind the reception desk. Akari continues and walks past the receptionist. The four ladies give a respectful bow to the Captain then an acknowledge glance at the Makasha. Two of the younger girls provide a coy wink, but Nawin didn't entertain them with a response.
Clicking the button to open the elevator, Akari turns to face the Makasha. "His office is on the top floor." Nawin stops in front of the door before turning around and offers a nod. "Thank you." With a faint smirk, Akari raises her right hand and push Nawin to force him into the elevator as the doors begin to slide shut. "Next time I see you... I want you to be in better shape, Nawin Makasha." Nawin's eyes widen at the sincere words from the Caption before the doors completely shut.
As the elevator shoots up the tall building, Nawin leans back on the support and takes a deep breath. Exhaling, he glances down at his watch. Seeing it, Miraya comes to mind. 'You must be worried... I'm sorry, Miraya.' Not long the elevator stops and Nawin shift his head up to see the door opening. Seated there at the desk, Azazel lifts his eyes away from the computer, and it widens at the sight of his godson's unexpected arrival.
"Nawin?!" Azazel speaks up and is about to greet with a smile until he notices the rough shape his godson is in, as he stepped out of the elevator. Standing up, the Fallen Angel rushes toward the teenager and stops in front. "Hey, what's wrong?" Azazel asks with concern, placing a hand on Nawin's shoulder. Looking up to his Godfather's eyes, Nawin speaks, "I want to ask you a question," "Sure, just go take a seat over there first." Azazel points at the couch placed beside the large bookcase. Nawin simply nods and heads over there. Taking the coat off and laid it on the other couch, Nawin drops on the comfy furniture and exhales a soft sigh.
Azazel brings over two bottles of sparkling water and sets one in front of Nawin, who nods in appreciation before grabbing the bottle. Azazel takes a seat on the leather chair and watches Nawin gobbles down the water until only half is left. Seeing that did not lessen the concern he has for his godson. "First," Azazel sets his bottle of water to the table and looks right into Nawin's eyes "Tell me what's going on. Why does it look like you haven't got an ounce of sleep? You're a mess, Nawin."
"Had an argument with Mom and Dad over my past," Nawin bluntly answers "Past?" "Yes. I may not call it amnesia, but there's parts of my past that's blocked, Azazel. Recently it has started to resurface more than ever before... My parent knows of these blocked memories. And I believe my Mom was the one that sealed them."
Azazel sat there, stunned to learn of this. He has no knowledge of this at all. Yao has not told him of this. He knew Nawin suffered from some memory problem, but he always thought it was something minor that'll be solved on its own. "Judging by your expression, you are too left in the dark?" Nawin asks for confirmation and gets a nod "I'm unaware of this. Don't forget I remained mostly in the shadows for a large part of your life, Nawin."
Azazel watches Nawin looks down at his hands, and he notices a certain shining, gold ring is glaringly missing. An uneasy feeling suddenly swells in the Fallen Angel's heart. "I broke up with her," Nawin speaks up before Azazel has the chance to question, as he noticed the gaze. "W-why, Nawin?" Is all Azazel could utter, in shocked "Because she tried to attack Miraya out of jealousy... Because even after being with her for more than half a year, I still barely know anything about her. How can I stay with a person who I have gone to not being able to trust?"
"Nawin... Akeno's pas-" "Don't," Nawin instantly interrupt with a sharp tone "I don't want to learn of her past from you, Azazel. It shouldn't be you or any other third-party. It should've been from her. That's my problem with this. So just don't. It is done." Azazel can only hang his head down in dishearten. He can't believe this has happened. Whenever he saw Nawin with Akeno. The love the two shares was so deep and strong that it is a warming sight. How can it be shattered so suddenly?
"Did she really tried to attack Miraya?" "Yes... With her powers, Azazel. If I hadn't sensed it and intercept... Miraya would've been killed" "..." Nawin stares at the bottle of water for a moment before setting it on the table then turn to Azazel. "Sayomi Dracul." The Pureblood Vampire's name instantly catches the Fallen Angel's attention; he turns to look at his godson. "What of her?" "She was there in the past, Azazel. I had memories of her when I was just a child. Lots of static... But some have become clear, and I've seen them. Do you remember I told you I was stranded with her in an island created by Ophis?" "Yes," "What I kept from you is that I uncovered a vital memory there. A memory of when I first met Sayomi. I was young. Probably five years old. It was late at night, and I was lost in the woods. I was worried that someone is going to be mad that I wandered off. Then, a stranger greeted me. A shady looking woman who turned out to be a vampire. Before she could have done any damaged... She appeared. Sayomi Dracul. She pierced the low-level vampire through the neck with her bare arm to saved me. S-She was beautiful and gentle in appearance. Her genuine concern got me, and I broke down in tears before hugging her. She asked for my name then gave hers. She said she'd take me home then that's it..."
For the rare moments in his life, Azazel is utterly in a loss for words. As if today couldn't get any more hectic. Nawin revealed this unprecedented news to him. Somehow, his godson is connected to a being that could possibly be one of the strongest individuals to be walking on the supernatural world currently. A being like those usually would want nothing to do with humans. Seeing humans as nothing but a weak race like ants. But, Nawin was able to possibly befriend that kind of being when he was a mere child. Could their relationship run even deeper? Many thoughts cross the Fallen Angel's mind.
"So, you believe these sealed memories would reveal more of Sayomi? You think all of them would have to do with her?" Azazel asks with calculative eyes "All of them involves her in some way, Azazel. It's not a far fetch hunch." "I see. Sayomi Dracul is a dangerous and powerful being, Nawin. You know this firsthand. Your parents must have ha-" "Don't," Nawin sharply cuts with a growl "I don't want to hear that. I get it, alright?! But I am already in this! Involved in a Supernatural World! For fuck sake, I received this damn mark on my neck by a Dragon Deity! The only reason they would keep it a secret is to protect me from the Supernatural world! But I am in it now, and they still refused to give me even a single word on it! So, don't you dare go defending them!"
Nawin cusses and grits his bared teeth. "I hate it... Hate just seeing static memories and knowing there's this important part of my life that's being suppressed. How can I live like this?!" Azazel did not have a response to give. He can entirely understand Nawin's anger. He wondered why Yao and Jonathan are still so keen on keeping Nawin in the dark on his past. Azazel knows how dangerous Jonathan and especially Yao can be. Not many things in this world can have the pair second-guessed or give hesitation. Which makes him believe whatever memory sealed in Nawin's mind must reveal something significant. Something that would even have Yao Makasha be worried. 'Could it harm Nawin if he got his memory back? Is that what have you so concerned, Yao?'
"I understand your anger, Nawin. You have every right to be. So..." Azazel looks up, "What is the question you came to ask, Nawin?" "Is there a way for you to help me get my memory back?" Azazel was expecting that question after hearing everything. But this now puts him in a tough position. If he helps Nawin, he will be going against Yao's will. And even though Azazel question's his surrogate daughter's judgment with this. He knows and believes whole-heartedly that she did it to protect Nawin. That woman would do anything for her son. But, that's not the biggest issue he has in his godson's request.
"… I can't, Nawin," Azazel utters with a regretful sigh, "Mind is a fragile thing. Messed with it and there's a good chance you'll end up in a coma or brain dead. I don't even need to look to know your Mom will have used some special seal. The best and safest way to get your memories back is to recollect it organically like what you've been doing up until now." "But all of them just happened or... When I am with Sayomi," "What?" Azazel leans forward with sharp eyes, "Have you been in contact with her recently?" "Yes," "And you didn't inform anyone?! You know what she is right?!" "I don't see her as an enemy anymore." Nawin's blunt comment stunned Azazel.
Standing up and grabbing his cloak, Nawin looks down at his Godfather with a piercing gaze. "These memories shows me that she used to be someone special in my life. She's the biggest reason I want to get my memory back now. Sayomi's... Not what you and the rest deem she is." Nawin turns around which have Azazel stand up and snatch his shoulder. "Where are you going?!" "If you can't help then I'll have to dig up the memories myself. Don't worry," Nawin glance back with a faintest of smile "I understand your decision, Azazel so I don't hold any negative feelings. Take care." Before Azazel can reply, Nawin disappears in a black flash.
Azazel's arm drops to his side as he stares at the spot Nawin just left. Stopping in front of his desk, Azazel sets his arms on the wooden surface then glance at the picture frame. This ominous feeling in his gut only grows as he stares at Nawin in the picture, being cradled on Gabriel's arms. "I need to find out what's going on. Just what is your reason for this, Yao?"
Kuoh
Making her way toward the Makasha's House. Rias stares up at the cloudy sky and can detect rain will soon be arriving. "Been lots of rain lately..." she whispers. Truthfully, Rias wasn't much fond of rain. To her, it signals negative emotions. It is ironic that she preferred bright and clear weather that offer unpleasant pain to her kind. Rain causes everything to become cloudy and dim, which doesn't harm Devils at all.
Rias finds the bright and clear sunny sky to provide positive and vibrant affects. Furthermore, with the troubled situation currently surrounding the two people she cared deeply for. Nawin and Akeno. This dark and gloomy weather disgustingly fits the severe event. Releasing a shaky sigh, Rias looks forward and spot the house in the distance. Her expression turns sharp. She can't afford to look weak in front of Akeno, who's no doubt in a vulnerable and weak-minded state.
Stopping in front of the gate, Rias looks up and can sense Akeno's mana coming from Nawin's bedroom. Wanting to only check on her friend, Rias jumps and lands on the balcony. The curtains were pulled, so seeing inside was impossible. Rias takes a step forward and gently give a few knocks on the glass. A minute pass and no response was given from the inside. Rias tries once more, but a little louder. "Akeno?" she calls out, "Can I come in?" Silence again is all that greets the Gremory.
Growing in concern, Rias grabs the handle and slides the door open to enter the room. Shutting the door, Rias quickly notice just how dark the place is. "Akeno?" Scanning through the room, Rias stop at the bed. Laid there without any clothes and the blanket rest to her slender hips, Akeno stares at the gold ring in her right palm with blank eyes.
"A-Akeno," Rias whispers out with stunned by her friend's state. When those empty violet orbs turn to her, Rias's heartaches in pain and sadness. She knew the breakup would devastate Akeno, but nothing would have prepared her for this. The once graceful, elegant, and kind Akeno Himejima now lays there as if she has given up in life. A shell of her former self.
Rias takes a couple of steps towards the bed. "Go away," Akeno whispers out in a dry tone, her eyes shift back to the gold ring. Rias stops her advancement and frowns. "Akeno... Please don't go through this alone." Rias takes another step forward and give a sincere expression to show she wants to help badly. Akeno's eyes did not waver from the ring. "Come on," Rias stops beside the bed and offer a hand "Let's go out for a bit. Secluding yourself in here won't do any good."
Akeno did not respond, and Rias's arm drops to the side. "Akeno..." the Gremory's whispers in a saddened tone "Please, let me help you." "What can you do?" Akeno finally speaks up, but her eyes remain on the ring, "Because of my mistakes and selfishness... I lost the person I care the most in this world. What can you do to help me with that, Rias Gremory."
Rias couldn't give a good answer and can only stare at her friend with sad eyes. "Just leave... I want to be alone. There's nothing you can do for me, Rias" "B-but," "I said nothing. This isn't like the past where you picked me off the streets to help, Rias. Please leave..."
"... I may not be able to relate with what you're going throug-" "Exactly," Akeno cuts in and her eyes shift over to the Gremory as she slowly raises up to sit, the blanket falls to expose her slender form. "You don't. Everything is good in Rias Gremory's world. A comfortable life, a stable relationship, and so on. You were born a princess with a silver spoon in your mouth. You have everything. You can't relate."
Suddenly, the sound of a slap echoed around the room. Rias pants and glares with anger while Akeno slowly shifts back to look at her, unfazed by the slap. "Don't go there!" Rias spat "You know well I'm not that sort of spoiled and blind royalty! I utterly disgust those who use their status and wealth for only themselves. So, don't go there, Akeno!" "It still doesn't change that you can't relate to what I'm going through," Akeno dully retort "You are right... I can't. Because I haven't made mistakes like you. I don't push Issei away by being selfish," Rias bluntly state and see Akeno's eyes sharpening in anger.
Rias exhales and her expression softens. "Clearly, my words aren't reaching you right now. You won't listen, so I'll wait... Wait until you listen, Akeno. Know that even though Nawin-kun isn't here now... There are people who'll still help you, Akeno. Like me." Akeno's eyes fall to the beautiful bracelet worn on her arm "You aren't Nawin-kun."
Akeno did not look up when hearing Rias make way to the window to leave. "Deep down, I can see that you are still trying to justify your actions, Akeno. Your eyes show it. You attacking Miraya was stupid and wrong. End of story. The faster you find within yourself to face your mistakes and accept them, the quicker you can get better. Because right now," Rias glance back "The Akeno Himejima I'm looking at... There's no way she can get Nawin-kun to forgive her. And for getting him back? Impossible." With those last words, Rias opens the doors and exits the room.
Elsewhere
"Thank you," Nawin offers a faint smile as a waitress sets down a plate of buffalo wings with a side of baked potatoes. "No problem! Enjoy your lunch!" the woman beams then gives a respectable bow before heading over to serve the other tables. After taking a sip of water to fix his thirst, Nawin begins digging into his lunch while gazing out the window to watch the cloudy sky.
Being the only person to be eating alone in the bustling restaurant, Nawin can feel some looks being thrown at his way, but he disregards them and carries on eating the delicious wings. It didn't take long for the Makasha to finish his big lunch as he skipped breakfast, so his hunger was high.
"Thanks," Nawin says after paying and exits the building. "... Uh?!" Nawin instantly halts, and his eyes widen when he comes face to face with Miraya in front of the restaurant. "I thought you'd be here," the Culdos gives her ever beautiful smile "When you are in a somber mood... Buffalo wings will usually be what you crave." Nawin can't help but let out a full smile by those words. "Of course you'd remember that, hmm?" "I was usually the one who either cooked or got you the buffalo wings in the past, darling. Of course, I'd remember."
Seeing the rough state Nawin is in, Miraya simply tilts her head and gives a warm smile. "Come on," she takes his hand and turns around, "Let's go for a walk." Nawin did not decline and simply let the Culdos guide him by hand.
The pair journey through the neighborhood until Miraya decides to stop at a public table that's set under a large tree. The area was reasonably quiet, a perfect place to have a private chat. Seating down on the wooden chair, Nawin looks across to see Miraya doing the same. She looks at him and rests her arms on the table to get comfortable. Nawin cracks a small smile, "You going to be my therapist now?" "Ehehe, just a bit. Though now that I think about it, I would make a decent one!" "I don't doubt it."
The warm smile on the Culdos's face wanes slightly. "I presume returning home has sparked some trouble?" "Yes," Nawin grimace and stare down at his hands that's placed on top of one another. "I made a decision to split with Akeno." "Why?" Miraya simply asks, remaining calm "Continuing the relationship will only bring more pain to Akeno. She wasn't going to get better, so I had to end it" "So in the end, you made that difficult decision for her wellbeing?" Nawin can only nod "That's so you, darling," Miraya whispers with affection.
Nawin finally looks up. "She will get better," "And if she doesn't? What happened if this decision backfires and it has her fall into a pit filled with nothing but misery and guilt?" "She will be fine. Akeno Himejima is a strong woman." Miraya can hear clear confidence in Nawin's tone when he said that, but she also picked up some anger. "Though you hold some resentment," "I do," Nawin admits with a sigh "Akeno has made many decisions that have left me frustrated. Those decisions are also what helped made me decided to do what I did because I simply can't continue in that kind of relationship. One filled with secrets and distrust. The decision to break up is not just for Akeno's wellbeing but also my own."
"It seems what you did was all throughout. So," Miraya looks at her friend in the eyes, "What are you doing now, Nawin? Why are you wandering around like a lost soul? Why didn't you return to the motel last night?" Nawin couldn't eye contact and looks to the side "There's something I have to do. Something personal," "So personal that you can't tell me?" "... Yes." "I see," Nawin turns "It involves my past," he says, wanting to at least mention that much as keeping secrets from Miraya just didn't feel right with him. He couldn't reveal everything as it means he would have to talk about Sayomi.
Miraya suddenly stands up, which also have Nawin do the same. "M-Miraya?" he speaks up, stopping in front of her as anxiety sets in. Worried that she's hurt by being kept in the dark. Miraya looks up to show that warm smile before she leans forward. Nawin's eyes widen as he feels a pair of soft lip touches his. A feeling of warmth and comfort surges through his entire body. Nawin finds himself closing his eyes and leans forward to deepen the kiss. Miraya too has her eyes shut while holding gently onto the Makasha's arms.
For what felt like a beautiful eternity, Miraya finally pulls back and opens her eyes. Nawin stares at her in speechless. Tilting her head, Miraya offers a breathtaking grin. "Look hard within yourself if you want to look for the past, darling. Erase the fear and hesitation… You'll find what you want then." Nawin opens his mouth to reply, but nothing came out. He simply watches Miraya turn around and walks away.
Nawin takes a few steps back until the back of the knees hits the chair, which forces him to sit down. His mind currently racing with thoughts. 'Look hard within yourself if you want to look for the past, darling. Erase the fear and hesitation... You'll find what you want then.' Miraya's words replays. "Look hard within myself... Erase the fear and hesitation?" Nawin whispers in uncertainty.
But tries as he might. Eyes closed and concentrating as hard as he possibly can. Emptiness is all that arises. Not a speck of vision of the past appears. "Damn it!" Nawin cusses out in frustration. He hates where he is at. Alone in this journey to find about his past. No one can help him. His own parents refused even to lift a finger.
'You truly have grown into such a wonderful, man.' Nawin's eyes widen as Sayomi's words come to life in his head. An image of her loving smile appears. The smile she wore before both of them departed from Tokyo. "Sayomi..." Nawin whispers and his eyes slowly shine. With a flick of his finger, a duffel bag appears on the side. Nawin shifts and opens the zipper to fetch out the photo he took from Akeno.
Nawin's eyes focus only on one person, and it is the beautiful woman that shares a striking resemblance to Sayomi. Besides her eyes color is more a shade of pink, the woman looks like an older version of Sayomi Dracul. Staring hard at the woman, Nawin's pupils widen as he feels something inside his head suddenly shatters. A shard of the past reveals itself.
Flashback
"Sayomi, Sayomi, hurry!" the beaming nine-year-old Nawin shouts with excitement. He stops trotting for a moment to turn around and watch the taller girl stops in front of him. "Now, now," Sayomi kneels and gives an affectionate poke on the nose to the child. She wears a brilliant smile that's only reserved for the person in front of her. "Calm yourself, my dear. You'll start getting sweaty with how hyper you are. Don't want to look messy in the photo, do you?" "Oh, you're right!" Nawin rapidly nods then starts taking a humongous breath before exhaling in hopes to calm his beating heart. The adorable expression being made has the Pureblood giggling.
Standing back up, Sayomi takes Nawin's small hand then guides him to their destination. Shinko Park. "Ehehe," the young Makasha chuckles in glee as he holds firmly onto the Purebood's soft hand. Sayomi glances down and wears a loving smile at the bright boy.
It didn't take the pair long to reach the park. Considering it is the weekend, the area is quite lively. Sayomi sniffs the air to catch the scent she needed, and her eyes gleam when finally locating the person. 'Seems like they are deeper in the park. I suppose they wouldn't want crowds around for the photo.'
Sayomi leads Nawin through the park at a moderate pace. The boy stays closely by her side, looking a bit nervous at how crowded the park is. However, soon the pair finds themselves standing in front of the small forest area that's on the edge of the park. "They are in there?" Sayomi raises an eyebrow at this. She blinks when Nawin lets go of her hand and rush off to the right.
Watching the boy stop in front of a particular tree, Sayomi's lip twists into a soft smile and walks toward him. Nawin tilts his head while his big brown eyes shine with joy. His right hand raised forward and tracing over the letter 'S+N' that are carved on the tree. "You ok?" Sayomi kneels by the side and sets her hand over Nawin's shoulder. She too stares at the carving with warmth. Nawin turns around and grins, nodding. "I am fine! I just wanted to check nobody has dug up our treasure!" "Ahaha, you needn't worry about that, my dear." Sayomi releases Nawin's shoulder to set her hand on the ground. "Only you and I can dig it out. I made sure of it" "Ohh," Nawin's eyes sparkle "How?! Did you use some kind of magic?!" Sayomi simply responds with a smile before standing back up. "... Do you remember what I said?" "Hmm?" Nawin cutely tilts his head and looks up with confusion before a look of realization crosses his face. "Oh! I should only dig it up if anything were to happen to you" "Good," Sayomi wears a smile though it holds some sadness in them "But," Nawin cuts in with a bright grin "I won't ever have to dig it up! You are super, super strong, Sayomi! I know you will always be with me! Then when I am all grown up, I will protect you!"
Sayomi's eyes shakes ever slightly as tears were threatening to spill, but she keeps strong. With a loving smile, she offers her right hand forward. "Come now," Nawin accepts her hand, "We better hurry to your mother and the others, my dear." Nawin nods and allows the Pureblood to guide him into the forest. "Um, why does Mommy want to have this picture so badly?" "Because Shuri and her family will be moving out of Kuoh shortly. Therefore, we won't be seeing much of her from now on," "Aww, Aunty Shuri won't come to visit anymore?" "I'm certain she'll come around every once in a while" "Yeah! I always love hearing her stories, and she makes the best dangos!" "Ahaha, I'm sure you'll continue to see her as the years go by, my dear. Shuri always has a soft spot for you."
"Bo!" "Ahhh!" Nawin screams in fright by suddenly being picked up and raise to the air. "Ahhh-ahhh! Sayomiiii!" "Ufufufu!" Nawin's frantic screams halt when a familiar chuckle enters his ears. "You really got to stop doing that," Sayomi reply with a sharp look. "Oh, don't be so protective of the child." Nawin blinks and looks down to see the woman that looks just like Sayomi. He grins and opens his mouth. "Ehehe. Hi, Aunty Sa-" Before those words could be fully uttered, the entire scenery shatters.
Present
Nawin blinks and finds himself back to reality. He looks around just to make sure he is truly back. Cold sweat drips down his face, and soft pants escape his lip. When that memory played out, Nawin forced himself to hold his breath, afraid that a single movement could cause it to disappear. But even doing that, it still ended abruptly without reason.
"That tree," Nawin whispers and slowly raise up to his feet. 'Only you and I can dig it out. I made sure of it.' Nawin did not waste time. Putting the photo back and teleporting the duffel bag to the pocket dimension, Nawin breaks off to Shinko park with haste. He can feel it. Whatever is buried underneath that tree holds something that'll help him. Containing something vital to his past. 'Sayomi, that woman... Everything. Whatever's buried will reveal something! I just know it!'
Dodging all the pedestrians and leaping over incoming cars, Nawin did not care about anything else over than getting to Shinko Park and finding that tree. Nawin's perks and suddenly stop, causing him to slide a bit from the speed he was doing. His eyes sharpen and glance back. Appearing around the corner from behind is none other than Issei, who's also panting from no doubt pursuing after him.
"Goodness, bro" Issei takes a moment to catch his breath before standing straight. "Took me half a day to find you! And why were you running?" Nawin sighs, not wanting to deal with this right now. He turns around with a stoic expression. "Why are you following me?" Issei blinks at the cold tone but replies swiftly, "Well... I heard about you and Akeno breaking up. W-we were all shocked over it. So, I wanted to check if you are doing good." "I'm fine," Nawin answers and turns around, "If that is all then I have other pressing matters to deal with."
Nawin only got to take a few steps before a hand claps down on his shoulder and pulls him back. "Whoa, what's the rush?" Issei asks with concern. Nawin's patience is running thin as the image of those carved letter flashes in his mind. He turns around to face his friend. "I have a personal matter to take care of, Issei. So, leave," Nawin bluntly state but Issei was not satisfied with the answer. "If something is wrong then I can tag along with and help, Nawin" "It's personal! Get it through that thick head of yours" "Look, I get that you are unhappy right now over Akeno but being alone isn't going to help things."
Seeing this conversation is going nowhere, Nawin simply turns around and is ready to dash off until a hand once again drops to his shoulder to prevent him. With a burst of irritation, Nawin turns around and delivers a punch to the side of Issei's face. Tumbling to the ground, Issei looks up in shock at his friend's action. The blow was nowhere strong to do severe damage, but the act alone stunned him. Nawin glares with his glowing red eyes. "Just stay out of my way! This doesn't concern you!" Issei looks dejected "B-but... You said everything will be fine." Nawin's eyes widen in shock as the red glow slowly fades away. "I'm sorry," Nawin reply with a heavy tone then turns around "I'm afraid those words were a lie. Right now, my life is anything but fine." Issei watches his friend dash off to an unknown location, and all he could do is sat there on the pavement with his head hung down in sadness.
Time Skip
Instead of entering through the front of Shinko Park, Nawin hopped over the metal fences from the east, landing right at the edge, staying clear from the most active area which is near the entrance. Not wasting time, he bolts to the south side of the park where the forest field is at.
Only a minute it took until Nawin finds himself in front of the familiar forest. "Wait," Something immediately becomes apparent when the Makasha compares what he is seeing now to the memory. "They have planted more trees." Nawin cuss and quickly runs through all the trees in the front row. When reaching the end from both sides, none of the trees held those carved letters.
Without losing a moment, Nawin's eyes shift to glowing red, and he marches into the forest. He'll search every single tree in the woods until he finds the one that possesses those carved letters. As Nawin speeds through the woods, his glowing eyes scan through all the trees with sharpness. He can imagine the letters won't be as cleared as it was back then after all the years have passed, but that isn't going to hinder him. His eyes have helped him tracked down numerous sly monsters in the past. Monsters that would require an expert Monster Hunter to detect. A fading carved sign will be nothing.
As every minute passes, Nawin starts getting more anxious. Worried that someone may have simply wiped the carved sign off. But, he continues on deeper into the woods. When reaching near the right end of the forest, Nawin's eyes shift at a specific tree, and his entire body comes to a stop. Feeling his breath temporarily come to a halt, Nawin stares at the tree in front of him with stun. There it was. Faded, but still there, etched right at the center of the trunk, 'S+N.'
Nawin drops to his knees, his eyes finally move away from the letters and to the earth. His arms unmoved as this feeling of fear slithers into his heart. Nawin knows why he is feeling like this. How can't he? He knows whatever is buried down there is critical to his life. Sayomi's and his words still echo in his mind. 'Do you remember what I said?' 'Hmm? Oh! I should only dig it up if anything were to happen to you.' Nawin can imagine where his life is now, with the absence of Sayomi, who seemed to be so crucial to his life back then. He just knows this wasn't how she wanted things to turn out. Something happened that caused the two of them to be separated.
"Erase the fear and hesitation..." Nawin mutters Miraya's exact words. With resolution burning in his eyes, Nawin summons a dagger in the right hand then leans down to begin digging into the earth. "Uh!" Nawin's eyes widen in shock when a portion of the ground glows in pink for a second. 'Only you and I can dig it out. I made sure of it.' Nawin exhales then begins digging. "There!" he whispers when seeing a sharp edge made of polished wood sticking out of the dirt. Dispelling the dagger, the Makasah uses his hands to dig the rest of the soil out and finally pulls out the object. He drops back to sit correctly, setting the item on his lap.
Nawin stares at the polished wooden box on his lap with stoic eyes. Though his heart is beating faster than average from many emotions swirling within. Silently gulping, Nawin gently places his right hand on the gold-plated handle then push the lid up to open. The first thing to greet Nawin is a folded white letter. Reaching in to pick it up, a gasp escapes the Makasha's lip as underneath the letter are pictures upon pictures of him and Sayomi. All of them so foreign to him as he can't recollect any memories of the time these were taken.
Nawin finds his eyes shift back to the letter. Exhaling a shaky breath, he turns it over and unfolds only to have a photo drop to the box. Nawin averts his gaze down to look at the image, and his breath stops, his heart freeze instantly, his eyes and pupils widen to its limit. "I-Impossible."
Nawin starts hyperventilating as his heartbeat just continues to soar. His shaking eyes shift to the letter to read it and only to meet with more shock by the content written on it. Unable to even sit straight, Nawin's back crash against the tree as his wide eyes solely stare at the letter. His lip quivers as his hands clench tightly onto the paper. "T-this can't be true." Tears begin trickling down Nawin's eyes as a hollow chuckle leave his lip. From above, lightning strikes cracks to existence in the dark clouds. "Sayomi..."
Next Chapter: Confrontation, First Love