Duty-Bound: Chapter 80
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While looking across the vast land of the West, he contemplated what he should do now. Usually, after his nightly patrol, he would go to visit Mikan. Upon remembering their fight over a week ago, he couldn't help but sigh. He didn't know who was being childish about their problem. A silly problem, too, if he might add.
There were a lot of things Mikan didn't know about him. Because of his relation with her when they were young, he was not allowed to take over his father's position. Unlike her, he had to fight for what was rightfully his right from the bottom. Was he too hard on her? Doubtful. She was much older than him when he had to fight for his inheritance.
Though, he knew everything had something to do with her unrestrained life during her journey for the past ten years. She had tasted what freedom was. Freedom was what everyone wanted when they already tasted how good it was. However, like what he wanted to say to her the other day, as the future leader, there was no time for breaks. At least, not now.
"Natsume-sama."
Without looking back, he answered, "Youichi."
"I mean no disrespect, Nii-sama."
He remained silent.
"Don't you think it's time to see her?"
Natsume knew Youichi was referring to Mikan. "Why?"
After a short hesitation, the silver-headed boy replied, "She is not happy."
He knew the true message was Mikan was not happy without him. A sigh escaped his lips. "She needs time, and I give her just that."
"She's been asking about you…"
"…"
"Nii-sama…"
"Leave."
Youichi seemed to detect the weariness in his usual strong voice and left him without another word.
Gazing up at the moonless sky, he muttered to himself, "Maybe a secret visit won't hurt."