Beta Reader, Editor, Co-Writer: Waffle (Thank you for being the bestest!)
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Kiss Of Snow
By: Swanna
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Chapter 31: Desperate Measures
Asuna met Amagiri Kyuujyu at Sumi in one of the private rooms that Senhime kept for occasions like this. As the time was still relatively early in the morning, most of the residents and overnight guests were still asleep before the bustle of the day began.
"You're very punctual today." His light blue eyes held nothing but cool interest.
She found herself within touching distance of yet another one of the most ruthless demons she'd ever met. Amagiri wasn't only tall, but he was also built like an impenetrable bastion, pure muscle and tensile strength. His dark-red hair was tied in a low ponytail, though there was nothing soft about it. Rather, it hinted at the dark hunger of a demon below the skin.
"Were you expecting me not to be?" Asuna kept her tone flat, her words sparse. "It's discourteous to make others wait."
The corner of his lips curled ever so slightly into the cold smile of a demon. "Then you must have been displeased with Kazama when he showed up late to meet you that morning."
Although Amagiri wasn't a rival, that didn't mean he was any less deadly. She'd never turn her back on any pureblooded demon.
"I wasn't impressed." She paused to put her thoughts in order. "But I understood the reason for his lateness afterward."
"He isn't in the habit of explaining himself to anyone." The taller demon pointed out to her, and that much she knew was true.
She understood Kazama's notion because she too, had no need for self-justification. She refused to go down the path of explaining herself to anyone, even if they might deserve an explanation of her intentions. A process which only appeared to be never-ending and trivial.
"You seem to know him quite well," Asuna observed, casting a sideways glance at him.
"Yes, I've worked with him in the many years since his father's death."
All at once, the pieces of a mystery began to come together. So Kazama Homura had passed away and Kazama was ruling as his father had wished. That would explain his behavior. It would explain it all, the reason why in some instances his demeanor and actions were rather arbitrary. It was almost as though he wanted to present himself in contrasting, morally irreconcilable ways.
If she had to describe him, she would say that he was quite…perilous. Asuna had never used that term before. She'd never found anyone or anything worth using it for. But Kazama Chikage unquestionably fit the definition. He was a demon who could make one feel both safe and in jeopardy in the same breath. Similar to the cold practicality of other male demons, he was vicious and destructive. Yet there also was an almost playful quality to him, as if he was expecting to enjoy whatever was coming. And that only made him all the more dangerous.
During their short, but concentrated time together, she'd had a glimpse of the predator lurking beneath the surface. Kazama might have played nice with her, but when it was time to bite, he would go for her throat beyond a shadow of doubt. No one was made a clan leader of a demon family at such a young age by being anything less than ruthless.
That didn't daunt her though. Perhaps it was because Asuna had seen true terror in her past, things so nefarious and vile that Kazama's blatantly predatorial nature was as welcome as a breath of fresh air. He might've tried to intimidate and charm her, but he had never pretended to be anything other than what he was – a predator through and through. A hunter to the core who knew how to stalk and kill his prey before the prey could detect even the slightest hint of danger. Needless to say, he was also a male demon who was well aware of the effect of his sensuality and wouldn't hesitate to use it on her to get what he wanted.
But right now, she had neither the time nor the inclination to be inquisitive about Kazama's past and the keystone to his character. Today was the last day the Shogun would stay with them. That meant she needed to return to the Shinsengumi's headquarters and finish her part of the act of posing as Hijikata's faithful and faultless fiancée in every way.
Immediately Asuna found herself ruminating over the way Hijikata had watched her this morning as she made her way to the front gate. His gaze had been so full of intent, it had felt disconcertingly like a touch, no matter how logically impossible that was. His expression had been…
At once, she stopped the internal chattering of her thoughts and tried to wipe him from her mind. She had to concentrate. Thinking about him had a dangerous way of derailing that.
"I assume you wanted to see me because you have news for me," she said forthright, striving to maintain focus.
"Uchiyama Einosuke has been executed for his crimes." There was a touch of remorse in Amagiri's voice. It was a rare and therefore valuable illustration of a demon's mercy.
In contrast, that information didn't disturb Asuna at all. Even knowing more of her own kind was dying out, she felt no sense of racial allegiance. Blood for blood, and life for life. It was simply justice and the Uchiyama siblings had both deserved nothing less.
"However," he added. "The conflict is still unresolved and remains in the investigation phase."
"What does that mean?" She asked so sharply that the taller demon abandoned whatever tack he had been starting with.
"We have yet to determine the level of your involvement in the murder of Uchiyama Mitsuru." A blunt explanation without preamble, his thought process was as transparent as they were audacious.
"You said Senhime already confirmed I killed Mitsuru to protect her," Asuna said in response to his statement.
"That's correct. She did confirm that was how you initially got involved in the conflict." The same complexity that made his expression unreadable layered his tone. "But there is no way to validate what exactly happened between you and Mitsuru after you two were left alone on the field that day, and whether you killed Mitsuru as a means of protection or for other reasons."
"And what other reasons can you think of that would motivate me to take her life?" Her question came out before she realized what it would betray.
A raw nerve had been struck with his insinuation. With his accusation. She was instinctively motivated to act in her own defense, but she gave no outward sign of her enraged reaction.
Though Asuna had no qualms about killing, she had never been one to kill without reason. And even when she'd had valid reason to claim a life, she never took pleasure from the act. Yet here she was being suspected of brutally murdering one of their own.
The other demon didn't speak for several long minutes, but his eyes were on the blade strapped to her waist, gleaming with cold calculation. That was when the glaring realization struck her hard and deep.
"You think I killed her because I wanted her family sword?"
Amagiri's expression never changed. Silent and serious, he neither confirmed nor denied her remark, allowing the suggestion to linger between them, lending an air of validity to the argument before he spoke again.
"Anyone is capable of murder if they have enough reason. The Ancient Ones are simply weighing in on the incident and aren't ruling out any possibility. For the moment, we're treating the two conflicts with the Uchiyama siblings as separate."
Asuna knew it would do no good to push. After all, the man who was standing before her was part of the most closed and secret alliance in the demon realm. It wouldn't do well to make him an enemy when he was simply a messenger in this instance.
"They're The Ancient Ones, they know everything so they're never wrong," Kazama's voice reminded her in her head, almost in a chaste way.
Who could have imagined that he would be the one to make her see the truth about the extensive hierarchy of demons? There was no law that could touch them, because they were the law. When they spoke, the demon world trembled. And when they decided to prosecute an individual for violation of the Demon Code, there would be no recourse or mercy or pleading.
"Then what do you want from me?" She asked icily. It was more of a command for Amagiri to speak rather than a query.
Any goodwill this demon had for her should have evaporated by now, but she didn't care. Especially not when the steadily increasing sense of powerlessness within was growing more and more difficult to endure.
"We want your blood." He answered so quickly, she barely had time to blink. It was the last thing she'd expected. "With your blood, The Ancient Ones will be able to see everything through your mind, your senses and your memories."
The Ancient Ones were master demons. Wholly evil. They understood evil. They had spent several lifetimes battling humans and demons alike. That thought alone was unsettling to her. Maybe it was because they seemed to be off-the-scale demons with so much strength and power that they could crush anyone standing in their way without batting an eye. Or maybe it was because they had a way of seeing inside the minds of others. And Asuna wanted nobody in the confines of her head.
The idea of having another demon crawl into her innermost core, the very essence of her being, and violate every part of her mind made her want to break out in a cold sweat. She fought the erratic reaction, which would be inexplicable to any other demons. If The Ancient Ones caught on, they likely wouldn't stop until they had stripped her most guarded secrets and buried emotions from within her. Things she wanted no one to know about.
"I can sense your hesitation even though this is the only way to prove your innocence. Is it possible that what you're really hiding from is inside yourself?" There was no judgement in Amagiri's tone as he simply waited for her to make her decision.
Though the way he was watching her with such an intense look made her wonder if he was trying to see into her soul. She could've told him that it was a futile effort, because as a demon, he should know better than most. They were but brute creatures, they had no souls.
"I'm not hiding from anything." Asuna forced herself to meet that direct gaze without flinching, ensuring that her own was just as closed off. She wouldn't allow him to aggravate her into an emotional response and place herself at a further disadvantage. "Take me to The Ancient Ones so we can do what needs to be done and move on."
"That's not necessary. One of them has returned with me to the city, but he doesn't like to expose himself to scrutiny by making an appearance in front of other demons. Therefore, we only need a vial of your blood." He then held out an empty vial that would hold a good portion of Asuna's blood.
"You asked me to come all the way here just to give you my blood?" A thinly veiled feeling of irritation seethed below the surface of her words, almost setting her teeth on edge.
The question hadn't offended him like it was meant to. Instead, he continued to observe her with the unwavering stare of a demon, as if gauging her strength. "It might have been more convenient if I had sent a messenger for this, but I figured you would've rather received an explanation in person."
Asuna had nothing to say to that, because he was right. Although this whole predicament was making her increasingly frustrated, she would've been more hostile towards a messenger that would presume to order her around. The situation was becoming desperate, she was becoming desperate.
With her lips thinned, she partially unsheathed her sword and sliced her wrist in one swift motion. She allowed several drops of her blood to fill the vial before the wound mended almost immediately.
"You won't have to wait long as we will be able to reach a verdict tomorrow," Amagiri explained as he recapped the vial and securely stored it back inside his obi.
Asuna's need to return to the Shinsengumi's headquarters pushed at her to end all of this and make her departure. "If there is nothing else, I will leave now."
"Senhime mentioned you are still residing with the Shinsengumi."
"What of it?" She was unsure whether that was meant to be taken as a prodding question or a statement of fact. It was neither his nor The Ancient Ones' business to criticize or interfere.
"I've warned you before to stay away from the humans. It's against our Demon Code to associate ourselves with them. There are no exceptions." His disapproval was more eloquently expressed by calm than anger. But at this moment, his perception of her was the least of her concerns.
She also shouldn't goad him like this since it would accomplish nothing, especially when he was apparently unwilling to relinquish the topic. But for some reason she found herself saying, "And yet both you and Kazama decided to join hands with the mortals to fight their war for them."
There was a small hesitation. "We have our reasons, and believe me, they're valid ones."
And she believed him. Not because Kazama had told her the same, but because Amagiri appeared so honest and matter-of-fact with his response. Though whatever their reasons and relationships with the mortals were, they didn't have anything to do with her at all.
"I also told you that night by the riverbank that I am no longer part of the demon world so I don't care about being exiled from it. This is my life, leave me to it."
"Must I remind you of the consequences you had to face when you decided to interfere with a human's life over two years ago?" Amagiri retorted almost on top of her words.
The question was heavy with reproach as it echoed in the air and the chains of her past began to weigh her down. Asuna knew the pitfalls of making hasty decisions based on compassion only too well, because she had once crossed that line herself. It was a misjudgment of the situation two years ago. A mistake on her part that she'd been obliged to undo even though at the time, her decision had seemed right.
He continued in an uncompromising tone when she went silent. "You should heed my warning this time before it's too late."
If that statement had come from anyone but a demon, she would've believed that the words were meant to prick her pride and make her speak without thinking. Unless, of course, that was his intention. Was that why he was paying her so much attention right now? Because he suspected her closeness with the mortals she was only beginning to recognize?
"And if I don't?"
She made sure he could feel her demonic power pulsing off her as she pinned him with a glare, as if to challenge him to rise to this impromptu game of dares he obviously didn't know the rules to. It was quite evident that he had forgotten Asuna was the empress of herself, ruler of her own life, and therefore he had absolutely no control over her to dictate her actions.
She didn't need the unforgiving reminder that she didn't belong here with these humans. They belonged with one another. Even if they had been willing to accept her, even if she would no longer treat them as the enemies they deserved to be treated as, there was something they could never gain – her trust.
Demons she could negotiate with. These purebloods thought like predators, and so did Asuna. They understood one another. They saw the world from behind their fortresses and it had become a natural instinct for them to go through life seeing everyone first as a threat, before assessing the risk and deciding if others could be trusted. On a rational, unemotional level everything made sense because demons simply found safety in logic and understanding.
Mortals, however, were another matter entirely. Despite living with the mortals all this time, she still did not understand them. They might be the most illogical, most wild, and most impossible to understand sentient beings in the world.
Just like Hijikata Toshizou.
The one and only determined human male who was utterly adamant about cracking her impenetrable shell and yanking her from the safety of the world she knew, just to throw her into the flames.
Part of her continued to resist the idea of what Hijikata meant to her, really meant to her. The part that had been tormented, broken, almost destroyed. It refused to open up, didn't want to be exposed to a weakness that could lead to harsher pain. Ironically, it was that same part of her that understood what this mortal was to her. And it was that same part which couldn't let him go.
Only one thing was certain – she would escape him. All she had to do was to destroy the cause of her shattering betrayal to her family's memory. Once everything was resolved, she would bring the seemingly budding relationship to an absolute and necessary end.
"Take it from a demon who knows from witnessing this firsthand." Amagiri's stare became distant, seeing a past that had once been his present. "If you don't, you'll be spending the next couple of decades trying to make up for your mistake."
His advice was sound and benevolent enough that she had come to respect it, but he couldn't control her choices, couldn't stop her. Asuna had to stop herself. Her behavior was her own responsibility. Because in the end she would be the one to face the long-term fallout and pay the price, not Amagiri or anyone else.
With every intention of dismissing the taller demon, she began to head for the door. "I will return tomorrow for the verdict."
The hallway was rather quiet when she stepped out of the room, but she ran into Kimigiku almost immediately. Contempt was evident in the hard edge in her eyes. Leaning against the wall on the opposite side of the corridor, she was in no hurry to be gone. Her posture was relaxed, but Asuna felt that she was watching her keenly.
"I'm curious," she began just as Asuna was about to walk past her to leave Sumi. Asuna remained silent, willing her patience to remain intact. "What is it about you that made both Senhime-sama and Kazama Chikage feel so smitten that they would do nearly anything for you?"
It wasn't an unexpected question, but Asuna had no desire to respond. Circumstances had led her to believe Senhime's guardian would bear no malice nor resentment towards her after their last encounter and had let go of her brief grudge. Clearly, she'd been wrong.
Kimigiku stepped away from the wall and loomed closer, staring at her speculatively for a moment. "Well, that explains it. I guess your face does hold an allure that would turn any man's head."
Never one to come to heel, Asuna met Kimigiku's look of disdain with her characteristic steady, unrevealing stare. "Instead of wasting time trying to get under my skin just to get a reaction out of me, you really should focus on doing a better job of protecting your princess. It's not an everyday occurrence to have someone else perform the duties that you failed to do. Your luck won't hold forever, if you even believe in such things."
Kimigiku's eyes were no longer purple but a pale glowing crimson. For an instant, it seemed as if she'd been struck and her composure dissipated as she lost her temper. But then her lips tightened again in a thwarted attempt at a smile, red eyes sliding back to purple so fast that Asuna didn't catch the transition.
"It seems this pretty little thing has a sharp tongue as well. How intriguing."
It was obvious that Kimigiku was enjoying their spar and parry, but she had no interest in playing along. Asuna gave her one last look before walking away. She had already wasted enough time as it was and needed to leave. Every minute spent on this pointless conversation was a minute she didn't have to spare.
The demoness's next words stopped her dead in her tracks. "Hijikata Toshizou is quite unusual, isn't he?"
That offhand remark of hers did more than strike a vein. It hit Asuna with the same nausea-inducing strength of a punch to her abdomen that she'd felt once before. She didn't turn to look at Kimigiku though. Instead, she continued facing the empty hallway ahead of them. Even so, she was sure she'd heard a spark of amusement lightening the woman's tone.
"I've never seen a more handsome man. A man like him, so virile, so very desirable, he has every right to be a proud human." Closing the distance between them, Kimigiku then leaned forward and deliberately intruded into her personal space to whisper conspiratorially, "Perhaps next time he comes to Sumi, I will serve him myself and even consider sharing my bed with him for a night of pleasure. Now I wonder what his blood tastes like."
A sudden spear of possessiveness pierced through Asuna at the thought of another sensual female demon taking Hijikata's blood while being held tightly in his arms. She was shocked by the sharp claws of fury dragging their way through her body, making her extremely vulnerable in the act of anger at that very moment.
Her nails cut into the soft pads of her palms. Not deep enough to draw blood, but enough trigger the pain that coerced her to keep a grip on her rising aggressive impulse. She needed the pain to pull her back out of the violent darkness shrouding her mind, to mask her flaws. One hint of vulnerability from her, and it would change the power dynamic between them. That could not be permitted. Demons had a tendency to stomp over opposition they considered weak. Asuna wasn't about to be trampled.
She dragged her glare over to Kimigiku one last time, her voice dripping ice. "If you can't say something of substance, then get out of my way."
Without waiting to see what her response was, Asuna pushed past the other demoness and headed down the hallway in the direction of the exit. No one wished or dared to try and stop her. Because if they did, her dark burning hunger would grow and blood would be spilled.
X X X
Asuna returned to the headquarters by midmorning before lunch was served, when a small body barreled into her in the courtyard. At the same time, she reacted on reflex as her hand shot out and caught the boy's elbow in a flash, steadying him when he swayed to the side.
Since she was much taller, he had to crane his neck to look up at her, surprised. "Ah, you're back."
"Yes, and you should watch where you're going." With that, she released him and began walking off like nothing had happened.
The prince fell into step beside her instead, those short legs sprinting to keep up. "Where have you been?"
"Out."
"Out where?"
"Taking a walk."
"Oh." A quick pause. Then he asked, "Did you have a good time?"
Asuna came to a full stop just as they reached the right wing of the temple. She turned to stare at him, her patience brittle and worn out. "Do you need something from me?"
His eyes widened, as if he was confused by her irritation and didn't realize he was interrupting the limited solitude she had before having to engage with anyone. These days, her personal quest for peace and quiet seemed elusive, if not impossible.
"No, but-" his protest was cut off mid-breath.
"Then I will take my leave now as I have errands to attend to." When she was about to walk away for the second time, the prince's next comment once again halted her.
"I just want someone to talk with!" Asuna turned her head sharply at the prince's raised voice. His cheeks reddened under her pointed stare and he looked away. "I'm bored."
"It's not anyone's duty to keep you entertained. That responsibility is yours alone." Her response was as curt as it was clear.
"But I want someone who will answer me..." His voice trailed off and he turned those soulful brown eyes on her, his wits deserting him.
Asuna could only stare back, lost in her own transient emotions. The sadness lacing his admission threw her off balance and almost put her in a petrified state for a short while. She didn't know how to react, and she certainly didn't want to allow the full impact of what she'd just heard to sink in.
Forcing compassion, wanted or not, upon mortals who got in her path would only make matters worse. Indeed she had very little to do with them. Even momentary kindness could cause harm for herself and others if it had no end. That lesson was learned at a great price, paid in full through more suffering and bloodshed.
The sensible part of her mind was telling her to disregard this human child and focus her attention elsewhere to the more obviously pressing practical concern. If nothing else, her past experience had made her much more cautious of interceding in the matter of mortals. So then why was she refusing to follow her own advice, and only seemed to be diverging further and further away from it instead?
After taking a moment to reflect, she stated in a tone of perfect disinterest, "You said you wanted to talk, so talk."
The prince's fleeting, unobtrusive attitude changed into a quick rebuff. "What am I supposed to say when you put me on the spot like that?"
"You were saying no one here talks to you."
His mouth dropped open and he snapped it shut. "I think they're all afraid of me, but I don't know why."
The memories of her childhood, in the forest that was silhouetted against the pitch-black sky, came rushing in like a strong torrent from hell into her mind and crushing her chest until she could barely get air to breathe. Until she was paralyzed with a familiar overwhelming sense of resentment for the mortals.
"Don't punish yourself for the crimes of those humans. Don't let them kill you too."
That was what Takeda had told her in the months after the massacre, and Asuna had tried to listen. After all these years, she'd thought that she'd conquered the rage in her mind and the torment in her spirit. But it had only been in hiding ever since. Waiting silently for the right opportunity, for the wrong words to be heard so that it could come pulsing to life and seize her by its infernal force.
"They simply don't want to say anything wrong to you, assuming your father can be rather strict." She forced her voice to cut through the miasma of pain and anger, refusing to surrender herself to the vehemence of chaos that easily. "They are afraid of him, not you."
The prince stared. "But you and that old man are different. You two don't praise me at every turn and aren't afraid of pointing out my mistakes just because you don't want to upset me."
"You should stop antagonizing Hijikata," Asuna warned him in her most overbearing demon manner.
"The same goes to him." His stare tightened into a glare, and for a long moment she thought he wouldn't comment further. But then he slowly turned thoughtful. "At least he reacts to me instead of my title as a prince."
His calm words were not at all what she'd anticipated to hear. She would've expected him at the very least to throw a tantrum and stalk away. "It almost sounds like you've learned to respect him."
"Respect?!" The prince's eyes widened in disbelief. His sharp tone implied that she was preposterous to even make such an unfounded claim. "Never! I don't even like him!"
Being unable to come up with an imperative response, she continued to observe his reaction and saw a darkening in his eyes. His lips parted, but nothing came out. It was almost as though he was about to follow this up with some other ludicrous statement, but had thought it was best to leave his words hanging to maintain his dignity.
Without another exchange, Asuna turned and proceeded towards the garden. She didn't need to look back to know that the prince was on her trail since she could hear his soft footsteps behind her.
"By the way, you never told me how you did it." Though he tried to conceal it, she noticed his breath came in small sharp bursts as if he had run a long distance.
Conscious of walking too fast, she slowed her pace for the sake of the child, who was jovially trying to keep up. "Did what?"
He caught up with her. "Leapt up into the tree like you can fly. How did you do it?"
Asuna didn't even glance his way when she said, "It's a secret."
"Can you jump higher than the trees? Can you jump as high as the roof of the house?"
The flood of questions was relentless. It made her wonder if all human children were consumed by this kind of boundless, insatiable curiosity for knowledge and explanations.
And to all these queries, she still answered, "Yes."
"Would you still be able to make the jump while carrying me?" His immense enthusiasm was evident from his mannerisms and tone of voice. It was the true indicator of his thoughts on the matter.
"Yes, but I'm not going to do it."
"Why not?" The question was followed by a huge sigh. "Because of your secret again?"
Asuna abruptly stopped in her tracks once more and said at great length, "Everyone has their secrets. Some matter more than others."
"Even if I promise not to tell anyone?" A soft whisper that asked for permission. "What if I close my eyes? Then you wouldn't have to worry about revealing your secret since I won't be watching."
She gave him a long stare. "You place that much trust in me? What if I drop you?"
It was difficult for her to fathom why someone would place so much trust in a complete stranger for anything, much less their life. Was this again something innate with human children?
"You won't. But if you did, then I fall. It's not like I'll die from a fall like that," he retorted, exuding the confidence and naivety she assumed was borne to all youth. That brashness could either get him far in life or leave him dead. Asuna would have wagered on the latter. The prince could have been Hijikata's long lost brother.
"I doubt you would survive the fall. Even if you did by some miracle survive, you'd still sustain serious injuries if you fell from a great height. That's not what you want, is it?"
"Listen, I will take full responsibility if anything happens to me so you don't have to worry about getting blamed for it and being punished by my father." He sounded irritable while still not grasping the lethality of a fall that high.
Of course not, she thought inwardly. It would only be grave for the Shinsengumi and maybe for herself too, but not for him. To him, it was a passing amusement of the moment.
"And how would you be able to guarantee that when you're dead or crippled for life, at the very least?"
Those harsh words as far as Asuna was concerned, missed its intent. It was meant to frighten him, to tell him she wouldn't hesitate to let him fall. Yet none of it mattered as her question was ignored.
The mischief in his gaze was new. "There, my eyes are closed and I promise I'm not going to peek."
And true to his word he was standing there with his eyes tightly shut and waited. There wasn't the slightest hint of fear or uncertainty in him. The thought that she ought to turn and walk away skated through her mind again. Though it wavered and did not seem to take root. Instead, she found herself unconsciously acquiescing as she placed an arm around his fragile, breakable body and silently teleported up to the roof above.
"Stay still and don't move," Asuna warned as she released him, unable to explain her own behavior and why she'd obliged his request in the first place. "It's a long way down. I won't catch you if you fall."
The prince stood completely motionless, not moving a single muscle as he blinked his eyes open to look ahead. Like a fish gasping for air on the shore, he opened and closed his mouth a few times but not a sound would come. Needless to say, the quaint scenery made quite an impression on him. As soon as she took in the view herself, stillness washed over her despite the summer heat feeling oppressive, the air dense.
Although they weren't high enough to see the entirety of Kyoto city open up to them, they were still able to see ample houses and buildings, along with paths and sanctuaries of green. The city was alive with motion and activity, with the energy of its citizens. Above the horizon, blankets of white wispy clouds glided softly through the clear sky and the sun was at its full strength, adding a warm glow to the landscape.
"This is amazing!" He exclaimed with uncharacteristic excitement, taking the comforting silence away. "I feel like a bird looking from high above! This is nothing like I've ever seen before!"
"Are you ready to go back down?"
"Can we stay up here a little longer?" There was a quiet plea in his voice, one he didn't seem aware of himself, as he went on in serene wonderment. "Everything looks smaller from so high up. Do you always come up here?"
"Only when I need to be alone," she said without offering further elaboration.
From up here she didn't sense the aura of despair and desperation she was used to when standing on the grounds of the mortals. From up here, it resembled places where her race had once lived and breathed, the parts that reminded Asuna of her old home from a past life even though she knew the heart of the city was where the crime and filth dwelled.
"It's a good hideout. The grown-ups would never think to look for you here unless they actually look up," he agreed, and with obvious approval too, as if she was seeking it.
She tilted her head to one side and studied him for a moment. This human child...How could this human child be so trusting of someone that he knew absolutely nothing about? He had aroused her curiosity so much that she had to ask, "Aren't you afraid of me?"
Puzzled, he lifted his chin to look at her. "Why should I be afraid of you?"
"Normal people can't jump this high up, but I can because I'm not normal," Asuna pointed out, though the rest was self-explanatory. Even now, he still didn't look a bit frightened. It made her wonder if he was fearless or merely foolish because of his age. "So why aren't you afraid of me?"
From the faint frown of puzzlement, his face became completely blank, and then resolved itself into an expression of revelation. "I'm not like those adults who miss a lot of things. They only see what's right in front of them and only if it makes sense to them."
For a moment, she found his answer to be unusual, intriguing and in a way, almost fascinating. Before she could stop herself, a corner of her lips curved in just the vaguest hint of a smile. "You're quite perceptive for a prince so young."
"I'm a genius, my father said so." The answer rolled off his tongue with ease, as if he was repeating something that had been said often enough.
"Then did your father tell you it can also be a disadvantage in its own way?"
His confusion returned, but it lacked that strength from earlier. "What way would that be?"
"You can end up being far too honest and too trusting of people," she admonished him.
His slender shoulders rose in a carefree shrug, apparently unconcerned. "I prefer to trust people I like until they give me reason not to rather than the other way around."
A mere second later, the prince turned scarlet as he realized what he had just admitted to and turned his head away to avoid Asuna's questioning gaze. His words did momentarily distract her from the course of their conversation, but it was because her mind was suddenly invaded with the same fleeting thoughts and emotions that were arising. Only this time, rather than reacting to them, she let them be present and flow in their own way.
Though she may not agree, this human child's rationalism was not without merits. At times Hijikata could be extremely compelling, and under other circumstances she could see herself being able to trust him – and acting on it. As a matter of fact, against her better judgement, she'd done just about that. Soon Asuna started thinking back to the times when she had acted upon it on more than one occasion, without seeming to understand what had truly motivated her.
She even remembered back to when they had first met. She'd taken the risk of entrusting the demon-slaying sword to him for the sole purpose of defending him and the others from her, in the unlikely event that she lost control of her hunger. She had willingly and purposefully decided to reveal her own weakness to him. A weakness that could be exploited by a threat and only bring harm to herself. How did she know to trust this mortal whom she'd just met at that time when it was so hard for her to trust anybody else?
Did that also mean she could trust him more now than she did prior to everything that had happened between them?
Asuna bit the inside of her lower lip to stop her mind from churning more than it already had, tasting blood along with the finality of her disposition. No, she wasn't going to stay here long enough to even entertain that possibility, much less explore it. And she had never been able to trust anyone, not completely. Never been able to let go. She wasn't built for it.
The prince stole a glance over at her from time to time and she realized she'd probably been quiet for too long, staring out at the city. "That's a naïve way of thinking."
"Is it? Or are you just not trusting enough?" he asked with brows raised, as if he could read her private thoughts, coming full circle.
Looking at the boy's small stature, he seemed even younger and was hardly an impressive specimen. But it was the knowledge in his eyes that made him old.
"It's easy to get hurt this way." And he would be set up for disappointment when he found out the hard way that sometimes, trusting somebody could destroy your life.
"I suppose that's true," he conceded after several seconds. "But sometimes trust is all I can give someone. Just like the way we trust each other. If I didn't trust you and know that you wouldn't drop me, I wouldn't be up here right now."
"I never said anything about trusting you," Asuna corrected sharply, knowing she had to make the protest. Although she knew this human child was hardly capable of hurting her, logic was no match for the nightmare chaos of memories.
"If you didn't trust me with your secret then why did you bring me up here?"
His question made her pause and think again. He was right. Why did she do this, again and again? To treat these mortals as though they were trustworthy and capable of honesty? She was so lost in her own reverie that she didn't answer.
"Do you know how hard it was for me not to peek?" The prince continued, his expression slid into something that felt remarkably like half a pout.
"I would've dropped you if you had peeked." Her tone remained light, conversational.
Seemingly not convinced, his brown eyes scrutinized her. "No, you wouldn't have done that."
He made her curious. "Why are you so sure about that? Because of this trust that you speak of?"
"That and I just know you won't harm me."
Asuna tipped her head at him but said nothing. Were those words meant to reassure himself or her? Her inability to understand mortals was an obstacle again.
"It's been fun, but I'm ready to go back down now." He closed his eyes without being asked to, and once again inexplicably placed his complete trust in her.
Acceding to the request, she wrapped her arms around him and teleported the two of them back to the garden. She eased her hold on him the very second their feet touched the ground, and stepped back.
"You can open your eyes now."
The prince's eyes fluttered open. "It's so strange...Not only did I not feel the jump, but I also didn't feel the speed or the wind of going into the jump..."
"You should simply respect the fact that it's a secret for a reason." There also was no need to know what the reason was.
He met her words with a lopsided grin. "Okita's right, you really are different. You sure you want to marry that old man? My father is definitely more suited for you than that old man will ever be, you know?"
"I'm sure." Asuna's answer was absolute by mortal measure. Of course if he only knew the complexity of the real situation, he probably would've asked more questions.
"That's too bad. I think we would've had a lot of fun if you'd come to live with us."
"You can't have it all."
And this boy would learn through life experience as he grew that everyone would go to their graves with some regrets, for lives unlived and choices not taken. As mortals, they just couldn't have it all. But their inability to accept this as truth had always been their greatest downfall.
Because they always wanted it all.
"Besides," she carried on. "You should be more cautious of people like me. We don't know how to play nice." It was a soft, sincere warning. She wanted this child to see her. To see her for what she was. A monster that fed on human blood to satiate her thirst.
Especially since the kind of disclosures he'd made sounded suspiciously like the first step on the path to what the mortals would call friendship, and Asuna didn't want a friend. To do what she'd done, to be what she was, she had to retain her distance from those who would be friends. And the one man who might be…more.
A long, exaggerated sigh escaped him as he rolled his eyes. It was an animated expression of impatience tinged with what she recognized as disappointment. Surely, he didn't like her response. "Anyhow, whatever your secret is, it's safe with me and I keep my promises so don't worry."
"I'm not worried. Because if you don't keep your promise, I'll come find you and make you wish you had never met me," she said in a cold voice. Each word deliberate, cutting, aiming to frighten. He may be a child and a prince, but he was a mortal first.
Pursing his lips, he regarded her solemnly while trying to assess the likelihood of her carrying out the threat. He was unsure if she had the means to do it. "Are you threatening a prince?"
"I thought you wanted others to think of you beyond your title," Asuna asked bemused, finding that her sanity was slowly being restored.
Though she didn't exactly feel rejuvenated, the oppressiveness that had been weighing her down the last few days seemed to have retreated a few steps back, allowing her to regain her sense of self.
His lopsided grin spread and turned mischievous, he was back to his carefree self. "I might be a child, but a deal is a deal. I won't go back on my word."
So innocent and trusting, so vulnerable and untouched by the ugliness of the world. Perhaps Sanosuke was right. To these humans, emotion was not an enemy, but simply part of who they were. It was what fueled their behaviors and gave them...the taste of life.
"Iesato, are you causing trouble again?" Came a familiar sounding male voice from behind them. Asuna turned to see the Shogun approaching them and his gaze wandered down her form slowly.
"I'm not causing trouble, father. We were just talking. Right, Asuna?" They both looked at her for confirmation and she gave it with a small silent nod.
The Shogun returned his attention back to the prince, who managed to remain unperturbed despite the abrupt interruption. "Look at you. You're a prince, you mustn't walk around with filthy hands. Go inside and clean up. We'll be making a visit to the city and some nearby shrines shortly after lunch."
Incapable of resisting his father's wish, the prince bowed and excused himself to wash up. They watched after him until he disappeared into the absence of light through the corridor.
"I hope Iesato didn't give you a hard time." His easy smile belied his earlier stringent attitude. "He can be difficult at times, but he is a very clever child. And if his talents are encouraged, he will likely become an influential ruler to lead the country to unity, security and prosperity."
"I'm sure he will," she concurred, sensing the Shogun's eyes resting on her as she spoke. It was no furtive glance, no quick look. He didn't even blink.
"I'm not sure if it's a matter of luck or chance, but the timing couldn't be more perfect for me to meet you here. I have something I would like to discuss with you, Asuna." He used her name as if they were acquaintances exchanging pleasantries.
"Then I believe it's best that we have that discussion over lunch during a common time when everyone will be available." It was better to counter his request and not to engage with him. No matter the depth of her inquisitiveness.
"I would like to speak with you. Alone," he enforced, this time with the firmness and authority a lifetime of royal breeding afforded him.
Asuna didn't appreciate at all the way the discussion was initiated. She did not view any as her ruler, not a demon and certainly not a presumptuous mortal. "I am an engaged woman and you are the Shogun. It wouldn't be appropriate for us to be alone."
"Now that you've drawn us into this conversation, I will be forthright and direct with you. Ever since I saw you that day, I haven't been able to stop thinking about you. I'm unable to get you out of my mind, from under my skin." The Shogun's eyes surveyed her features, as if he was drinking her in. His deep, inner desire negated the display of his calm demeanor. "You look like the purest and most perfect form of beauty that exists. Even though I'm aware of your engagement with Hijikata, I've never ceased to marvel at your beauty."
Her impatience was rising and she made no attempt to hide it. "Then why are you telling me all this if you remember that I'm engaged to another man? What do you expect me to do?"
Though Asuna didn't always understand mortals, she thought that they would respect the boundaries of mates as demons did. Evidently they did not, or at least not this man. Her view of this mortal dimmed further.
"Because I would regret not telling you how I feel and what I want. And what if we both want the same thing? Why are we denying ourselves?" His voice was deep, resonant and insistent.
Thick strands of his hair shone like the sheen of a raven's wing under the sunlight. Despite his youth, there was a certain strength about him, his solidity, his bearing that wasn't measurable by his stature alone. He no doubt also believed that he could compel a woman to submit to him through the sheer power of his persuasion and to dominate the discussion. It was as though he wanted to believe himself indomitable.
"Are you suggesting me to leave my fiancé to be with you?" Her question was belligerent, just as she had intended.
"I realize it won't be an easy decision for you to reach and you would also be frowned upon, and even humiliated for breaking off the engagement. But I will do all in my power to shield you from everything that is difficult and unpleasant as you take refuge in me," he said in reassurance as he closed the distance between them and reached for her face, but she backed away before he could touch her.
Did he really think this was the issue at hand and couldn't imagine any woman rejecting his offer just because he was a man of status and power? Asuna found herself staring at the Shogun as if meeting him for the first time, newly revealed, finding a certain aura of oddness about him. A lack of balance.
"You've become rather quiet all of a sudden." His remark roused her from her own thoughts.
"I'm merely trying not to offend you as I know that when someone says or does the wrong thing before you, there's always a price to pay." Asuna no longer approached the subject with care for caution or etiquette. She, too, had her commands to give.
"Do not think of me as a tyrant to fear, Asuna. I don't lay out punishments for those who speak up against me."
"My concern is not really for myself but for those around me," she corrected him. There was no need to drag the Shinsengumi into her problems, especially when it could bring personal harm to each and every one of them.
"I promise there will be no consequences for you or anyone else for that matter, if you tell the truth." He tried to sound as sincere as possible.
The only issue, Asuna found was that when mortals tried to sound sincere, they oftentimes didn't. As of now, nothing about this man had given her reason to trust him. It was no secret that he was used to wielding his power to get what he wanted, whether or not he did so maliciously.
"How do I know that I can trust you?"
The Shogun looked like he hadn't expected that particular question. "Unfortunately, you can't. But I've given you my word, and my word is law. Is that not enough for you to know?"
She assumed there was some truth to his argument. Except that as far as she was concerned, his rules and laws didn't apply to her world. Hence any hope that she would ever abide by them would be quickly and most cruelly crushed.
"Go on, Asuna," he prompted, smiling up at her with gentle patience. "You know you can speak your mind with me any time. Tell me what you're thinking. Be honest. Let your thoughts and feelings out as they're not going to hurt you or me."
Yes, they would. What she was about to say would hurt his pride and it would hurt deep. They would make him feel less confident than ever. He just didn't know it yet. Since he'd backed her in a corner like a mouse caught in a trap, she decided honesty was the only way to penetrate his stubbornness and maneuver her way out.
"I think you're a very shallow and frivolous person." His charm fled and his smile fell from his lips in an instant. "I see that you're not smiling anymore. Are you feeling offended?"
"No, I'm not offended. In fact, I would go so far as to say I'm intrigued," he replied, though the solemn look on his face suggested otherwise.
"You're intrigued," Asuna repeated, scarcely believing him given her bluntness. "By my comments about you."
"Yes, I find this very intriguing and I'd like to hear more of what you have to say."
It was an invitation to carry on and she responded to it. "You admitted that you sought me out because of my beauty. If that is true I could almost understand it, but that doesn't mean I'm obliged or expected to reciprocate your affection. Even if I did, my future would only be filled with insecurity and misery."
"Why would you say that? I can give you anything your heart desires and a life that no one else could possibly give you. I would cherish and love you as you deserve to be cherished and loved."
Love? How could he possibly feel this strong for her when he knew absolutely nothing about her or her background? Yet he seemed to firmly believe his own casual words as they were spoken with fervor and conviction.
"I don't think you really want what you think you do. Youth and beauty won't last forever. At this moment you're infatuated, you're curious. But what will happen when my beauty fades and is no longer a subject that holds much interest for you? And what happens when you meet another beautiful woman whose beauty exceeds mine? What would become of me and your proclaimed love for me?" Asuna emphasized the word with a biting breath. Her curiosity at his confidence forcing the questions out. She truly did not understand the Shogun's views on his own feelings.
"It's quite normal for a man of rank to have several women. I may have more than one woman in my life, but it wouldn't lessen my love for you, nor would it change my feelings for you," he retorted dismissively as if this was perfectly valid and understandable, but it wasn't. Not to her.
"It wouldn't have changed a thing for you. But it changes everything for me, because I will never share my husband with another woman." It was a truth, if not everything. She would never share her mate with another female and be his little something on the side.
"And yet what makes you think Hijikata will stay faithful to you with all those attractive women gathering around him?"
Asuna realized at once that he was using a different tactic on her, trying to undermine her belief in her own understanding of fidelity and making her less sure about its legitimacy. But his question didn't stop her from feeling a curious stillness in that newly awakened section of her mind, the part where her bond with Hijikata had lived in secret for so long.
"Faithfulness has to do with an individual's character. At his core, Hijikata is a protector and a man of high moral values. He would never do anything that would cause me much unnecessary pain."
And all that was an understatement of Hijikata's iron-will, which was enough to impress even the most ruthless of men. In his view he was better at taking care of everyone than they were at taking care of themselves. Because that was just who he was. Asuna couldn't even fault the man for the impulse, especially not when he'd devoted so much time and energy in protecting her. If ever there was a woman who didn't need protection, it was her.
"It's not my intention to tell you your own business, but are you certain you know him as well as you think? Do not misunderstand me, I have no doubt Hijikata is a warrior at heart and he is everything that a good man ought to be."
"And yet you sound doubtful," she responded in an ice-cold voice.
"I only want to make sure you're not overestimating Hijikata's scruples and self-control. He is a man, after all. He definitely is as fallible as the rest of us men, no matter how formidable he appears."
"My lord," came the voice of the very man that they were discussing from behind them. "The midday meal is ready to be served. Would you care to join us at the common room or shall I send someone to bring a tray to you?"
"What excellent timing, Hijikata. I'd like you to be a part of this discussion since it involves you too." He motioned an invitation with his hand for Hijikata to join them.
Hijikata's face was a tight mask of placid intensity as he approached. His movements taut and careful, like he knew what was coming and was fully prepared for it. He met her eyes and stood so close she could feel the warmth of his body, the heat radiating off of his skin. It was both soothing and unsettling at once, setting off every danger signal she possessed.
Oblivious to the underlying meaning of their behavior, the Shogun continued. "Let us be frank and go straight to the heart of the matter. You already know how I feel about Asuna, and just now I made her aware of my feelings."
If Hijikata was fazed at all, he didn't show it. "And did she return your feelings?"
"No. That's why I figured as her fiancé, you can help her make the ultimate decision."
This time, the slight creasing of Hijikata's brows betrayed his growing anxiety. "And how would I do that?"
"I want you to give Asuna to me in marriage." It was a tempestuous statement. Though the way the Shogun said it, he might as well have been making a comment about the weather.
The silence that followed was deafening. Asuna was thrown off guard by his audacity and by the rage it inspired. This mere mortal had a compulsion to force her down a path she had absolutely no desire to go, and a boldness to make decisions that were hers to make. Hijikata was also stunned into silence as he was evidently not used to being blindsided this way, either. She could feel the shock permeating through him.
"I'm sure you're aware that I can make her happy and give her a better life as well. You risk your life for our country and I have great respect for you and the Shinsengumi's accomplishments. But the regular need for your presence at the frontlines to fight battles puts you in persistent danger."
Hijikata didn't react, his expression remained blank. Any weakness disclosed would only make it easier for the Shogun to manipulate him, she realized. But the other man was likely too caught up in his own superiority to notice Hijikata's hidden thoughts. This was such a unique situation for these two mortals, as unique and notorious as their turf wars.
The Shogun went on fervently, clearly pleased with his logical train of thought. "And because of this reason, you would never be able to give Asuna the peace and stability that she deserves. On the other hand, I have more means than you will ever have. She would have a good life with me in Edo, better than the one she has with you here. So now the question is, what are your thoughts on the matter?"
"Unless Asuna is the one to break off the engagement willingly, I have no wish to let her go, not even for you as our Shogun. Forgive me for being forward, my lord, but this request isn't something I can fulfill." Hijikata kept his tone civilized and bent low to give a deep bow. It was a risk to say that, but one he'd appeared wanting to take.
"Tell me what your price is, Hijikata."
"My price?" he asked, looking up with a confused frown.
"Yes. Your price," the Shogun persisted, his glance assessing him. "Asuna must be worth something, correct? So tell me what you want in exchange for her and I will acquire it for you."
"You-" Asuna began to say, livid with rage at being delegated to the same level as livestock, but Hijikata cut her off by grasping her clenched hand and held it in a firm grip to stop her.
The heat of his flesh against hers was pacifying. Warm, pliant, not demanding. Only understanding. A silent declaration to tell her that he would keep her safe and she could trust him to do his best. Though it was unfair of her to lean on him so heavily and it was not what she really wanted. She should be more self-reliant and that meant tackling the Shogun herself. If only she could make Hijikata see all that effort he'd spent on protecting her would be wasted on her.
"She's not an object to be bought and sold, and spend her days locked up in some grey stone castle."
Those words were so sharp and cutting they stabbed at the tenuous peace between them. Hijikata's anger was sheathed in a viciously calm way. The act before her seemed to be that of a man on the brink of explosion from internal tension.
The Shogun drew in a sharp breath and stared at their joined hands, then back up at Hijikata. There was a severe look on his face, one he wore often that told others he would suffer no insolence, that he would punish defiance.
"I don't imagine that I need to remind you of the dire consequences of disobedience of my wishes. And your consequences, should you decide to disobey me, will begin immediately after." A pause to allow what he said to sink in. "So choose well, Hijikata. Remember, even Kondou would expect you to perform your duties as the Shinsengumi's Vice-Commander."
"I'm used to following instructions, demands. My entire life has been spent following orders and I strived to serve and protect. I wouldn't refuse if you ordered me to kill on command or take down an entire coup single-handedly. But as much as I can follow orders, I will not give Asuna to anyone. She's become…she's very important to me."
The finality in Hijikata's voice was unmistakable. It got Asuna to lift her head and gaze at him while he kept his eyes forward. A sensation of extreme and conflicting emotions shook the innermost recesses of her heart. For an instant, a shiver went through her as she noticed a warm, obscure feeling blossoming from deep within. And no matter how uneasy it made her feel, the warmth only grew.
"Even if you will be facing dire punishment for violating the edict? Even death by execution?" The Shogun pressed further, interrupting her frantic thoughts.
The darkness inside Asuna's mind, the one that had once broken free and never quite ceased to exist completely, pushed outward again. It was only a meager manifestation, yet it permitted something volatile to be released, something that ricocheted violently through her veins. She squeezed her fist harder, the pain was hardly noticeable as she fixated on her insatiable hunger for violence. Until she felt Hijikata's hold of her hand tightening, piercing through the haze of that darkness. Her fingers gradually uncurled one by one under his touch.
"It was never my intention to dishonor you, my lord. I'm willing to accept any punishment, any consequences you deem appropriate for my actions as long as nobody else suffers through me, and that only I will be punished." Hijikata steeled his resolution, even to the horrors of hell and destruction. It was as though he'd known that this could be a potential outcome and had prepared himself for it.
Something inside Asuna crumbled, knowing just how much this was costing him. And it was all because of her. A lump rose in her throat, making it hard to breathe. Why was he willing to go so far for a demon? To go so far as sacrificing himself for her and cast aside his life, showing absolutely no concern for himself? Her confusion and anger were so mixed, she failed to discern where one stopped and the other began.
Hijikata then fixed the other man with a penetrating stare, his mouth set in a hard line as he went on. "But even though I'm willing to take my punishment and no one would directly question your authoritative decisions in matters of honor, I can tell you that you still won't be able to force yourself into her heart and get what you want. She would never submit herself to you willingly."
"No?" The Shogun arched an eyebrow, a sly grin echoed that single word. "Not even if your life depended on it?"
"If you make that move," she finally spoke, her tone slow and lethal. "You will live to regret it." If not killed instantly as a result.
This particular slaying, however, wouldn't require much thought. Asuna had no problem with taking a life in retaliation. Perhaps she would even do it in a bloody, merciless way that would make the consequences of crossing a demon clear.
The Shogun flicked his glance between them, and then returned to stare unblinkingly at Hijikata. "I see no doubts clouding your eyes. Instead, I see a tight jawline and furrowed brows, all signs of a man willing to fight for what he believes is his. There comes a time when even I must admit defeat. It's not that I'm giving up on Asuna, but I'm left with no other choice."
His abrupt surrender brought more surprise than relief. Looking at him, she wondered if this could've been a trial of sorts to test Hijikata's resolve and to prove her wrong. If that was so, then Hijikata had emerged all the more stronger from it.
The Shogun's lips lifted into an almost serene smile. "I pride myself as a good judge of character. You've given me and our country some excellent service in the past, far beyond the conventional, and you think more uniquely than any of the other warriors that I know. Men who tell me 'yes' without question and will do anything I ask are valuable to me. But the one who will stand up to me when he believes he's right is invaluable."
"Does that mean there won't be any punishment?" Asuna asked cautiously. She had really thought that Hijikata's impertinence could result in nothing short of death.
"No punishment shall befall anyone. I cannot afford to lose good men like Hijikata and Kondou. I would rather have a long affiliation with the Shinsengumi that we can count on."
"Thank you for the kind words of praise, my lord." Hijikata replied with another bow as he refrained from letting relief color his response.
He waved his hand. "Nonsense, I say it as I see it. The two of you seem to know that you want to be together and it wouldn't be an easy task for me to break you apart. Besides, judging from the way Asuna looks at you, it's very clear that she is quite fond of you since she thinks highly of you. Heavy on the fond part too if I must say so myself."
"We've been out here talking for a long time." A gentle reminder from Hijikata served to put an end to their conversation.
"Yes, perhaps we should go and join the others as our food is probably cold by now," the Shogun said with a bit of cheer to his voice. "One more thing before it is dismissed from my mind – our farewell celebration will take place here at the Shinsengumi headquarters this evening. Needless to say, I expect your attendance, both of you."
"It would be our honor, my lord," Hijikata answered for them both.
Then he turned to look at Asuna, and she realized he wanted to make sure she agreed. She gave a curt nod. Just then, she would agree to almost anything if it meant she could be rid of the Shogun and never have to deal with him again. With a grin of approval, he walked away.
"Let's head back inside and we'll talk after," Hijikata said in a low voice as soon as the Shogun was out of sight, finally releasing her hand. His simple command was the death stroke of their conversation as he strode on ahead in silence.
Asuna stared at the wall of his back, his physicality was a formidable force. She could feel her own heart attempting to shatter through what should've been an impenetrable barricade of ice, drawn by the pulse of her forbidden emotions for this man...Drawn too, by something that had existed on the fringes all along.
Something that she had doubted the existence of. A feeling that she could not quite bring herself to embrace fully because it was too terrifying.
But now, everything was brought into the light of day.
X X X
AUTHOR NOTE:
And there you have it - the longest chapter of the year lol! It took me a while to get this chapter out because I wanted to enjoy more outdoor activities before winter comes. Also, this was another tough chapter for me so I didn't want to rush it. But thank you so much for all the subscriptions, kudos and comments from the previous chapter! I really felt your love and support!
On another note, I've uploaded more fanarts on my mini blog including a sexy Kazama drawing, so feel free to take a look! Already, time to wrap up as I'm eager to start the next chapter, hehe! Enjoy your weekend, folks!