Once home, Amu collapsed exhausted onto her bed after a long shower, holding her hand against her chest, still nervous from the events. Yoru, who had silently observed the whole spectacle with his master, though he had suffered alongside him in the beginning, since he didn't want to see him like that, jumped onto the bed beside her.
"So, what was that? If you were to sleep with one of them, you would have to reconsider your feelings for Tadase?" His face radiated satisfied self-assurance.
"With Ikuto, you would have totally gone for it, if Nagi hadn't been there, and by God, even with both at the same time." At least that was his conclusion as he watched the three in the corner.
"Would you just be quiet," the girl whined, burying her head under her pillow. "That was just the alcohol," she mumbled finally from under the pillow.
"You know, alcohol just amplifies people's courage to show the truth, right? And the double action was already in the sober state," the cat tried to pull the pillow from her head, but she held it tightly with both hands.
"Don't you need to admit to yourself that you never shine with Tadase as you do with those two?"
"And so what? I couldn't change anything anyway. I've been engaged to him for ages, our parents would never tolerate that." The pink-haired girl finally emerged from her pillow hideout and sat with her legs drawn up on the bed.
"Then run away," Yoru shrugged as far as a cat could and looked at her a little indifferently. "Do you really want to just welcome him as if nothing happened? Distort your true desire with him?"
Amu sighed and hugged her legs. Her head was flooded with everything that had happened, especially with Nagihiko and Ikuto. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn't find room for Tadase right now.
Yoru watched as the girl sank into her inner conflict of emotions, and once again, a soft sigh escaped his cat lips. "What if Tadase isn't the true heir? What if it's Ikuto? Then Tadase and his family wouldn't have any rights anyway."
The pink-haired girl raised her head and looked at the cat in front of her incredulously before replying with a plaintive sigh. "But I still have feelings for him... besides, that would have to be proven first."
The black cat grimaced, because he didn't know how that could be proven, and Ikuto wasn't currently focusing on regaining and developing his abilities either, at least he thought so. He wondered when he would tell her about his true identity and if he was making a mistake by waiting longer. In the end, everything he had achieved with her in terms of feelings would crumble because she would feel betrayed.
Eventually, there was a knock, much to Amu's discomfort. Even though their relationship had improved, he still didn't wait for an answer, as he didn't see it as necessary. The girl sighed but greeted him with a friendly smile. "Hey," she said, sitting on the edge of the bed. He returned her greeting with a "Hey" and sat down beside her.
"Today was a nice day," the pink-haired girl began, playing with her hair a little. She was referring only to the afternoon, as the evening had been chaotic and confusing.
"It was indeed a pleasant change," the young prince nodded, agreeing with her.
"Would it be okay if we skipped it today, just this once?" her voice was uncertain, and she nervously glanced down.
The crown prince sighed and briefly pondered in silence. His parents wouldn't be able to prove it anyway. "Alright. But why?"
"I'm not feeling well, my head hurts a bit," she murmured softly, leaning against his shoulder. At least that wasn't a lie, as her head did indeed hurt, for which she cursed Nagi a little, as he could have prevented it.
Tadase put his arm around her and gently stroked her arm. "Would you like some tea? Maybe that will help? Well... not because of that.., that's already okay." Amu looked at him a little surprised but shook her head. "It's okay, I think I just need some rest."
"I understand," he was about to get up, as he interpreted her statement as an indirect request for him to leave her alone, but Amu stopped him. "You can still stay."
"Tadase... you know I've had feelings for you for a long time, but what if that were to change?" the girl's voice was soft and quiet, but radiated a certain insecurity.
The blonde turned his gaze to her and raised an eyebrow, his expression turning skeptical and dissatisfied. He took a deep breath. "Why are you asking this all of a sudden?"
Amu briefly glanced aside, but then looked into his eyes because she knew she couldn't appear insecure. "Just out of curiosity."
"That wouldn't change anything for you. As long as neither I nor my family banish you, you are bound to this engagement."
The pink-haired girl simply nodded silently and looked away. She fought hard not to let her despondency show outwardly. "I understand. It's quite unfair, isn't it?" she smiled bitterly. Not because of her feelings, but because she found this fact simply impossible. How could it be normal to force someone into eternal bondage regardless of their feelings?
"Who is it?" the blonde didn't address her statement and clenched his hands into fists. He felt a heat rising in his body, it was anger. It was completely inexplicable to him when she could have met another man, she was always here. "It was him then, right? That's where the scent came from, yes?"
Amu almost waved her hands hysterically and laughed a little. "No, you're misunderstanding. I was just curious. I love you, I proved that yesterday, didn't I?" she smiled gently and lovingly kissed him on the forehead.
The young prince sighed and tried to calm down again. "I'm trying to improve... I hope you know that," ultimately, his voice ended up sounding dejected, and even his shoulders lost their usual upright form and began to sag a little. He gently pulled her closer and enveloped her in his arms, resting his head on hers.
Usually, nothing would have made her happier, but Amu's eyes were cloudy, and she kept them fixed on the ground. She hugged him back, but her heart felt like it wanted to sink into the earth. She was still sure of her feelings for Tadase, of course, but she was also sure that her feelings for the others were at least equally strong, and she was afraid to see them again. She was afraid that in the end, she might go against her values and betray Tadase. They spent the rest of the evening talking about trivial things, which helped them to get to know each other better. They talked about favorite colors, flowers, plays, and much more until they eventually fell asleep, with Amu lying on Tadase's chest.
Meanwhile, Ikuto and Nagihiko sat together for a while and discussed the evening. "But you didn't mean that seriously, did you?" the brown-haired one sighed, looking at the lilac-haired one while supporting his face with his right hand and massaging his forehead.
Nagi sighed and also rested his face thoughtfully on his hand. "Not really, but will she be able to choose one?"
"Who knows if she would choose anything over Tadase at all," Ikuto commented. After all, whether they would really engage in such a thing depended mostly on that.
"Still, we should probably clarify that..."
"In the end, she might really want us together for that one thing," Ikuto shuddered for a moment. He wasn't exactly keen on having another naked man around.
Nagihiko briefly frowned but then shrugged with a sigh. "If she really wants it... hopefully, it won't be too often..."
"Seriously?" Ikuto almost whined and buried his face in both hands now. "You realize that what bothers you now will always be like that, right? I can do whatever and whenever I want with her, of course with her consent..."
"The same goes for me," Nagi grinned confidently and cheekily. Upon hearing this, Ikuto clenched his fists for a moment before relaxing again. "Yeah, yeah... I know..." Even though he hated it, it was better than not being able to have Amu in his life at all.
"You also have to realize that one day she might suddenly choose only me..." Ikuto lowered his gaze to the table. Although he didn't have much hope for that, he still wanted to make Nagihiko aware of it. "If she remembers?"
"You believe me?" The brown-haired one looked at him again uncertainly.
"What else can I do? Today speaks for itself," he just couldn't explain why Amu sympathized with him so much, she couldn't even explain it herself. Even Ikuto's breakdown was disproportionate, considering he had only known her for a short time and had fallen in love with her.
"So now we work together to make her love us both more than Tadase and agree on a three-way relationship...?" Nagihiko expressed all this very hesitantly and with a frown. Ikuto's expression also twisted, but then he nodded. "Seems like it," his voice sounded just as uncertain and hesitant as that of the lilac-haired one. Both sighed.
"Let's treat her more indifferently from tomorrow onwards. Just like a normal acquaintance," Ikuto's gaze was serious as he looked at Nagihiko. "To see how far she'll go and hopefully push her feelings even more forward?" Nagi didn't like playing with Amu like this, and he frowned worriedly.
"If we do, we both have to pull together... I'd trust you in that case. If only I do it, she'll probably be more likely to turn to you..." the brown-haired one muttered uncertainly. Should he really trust him that much?
"Or to you. But okay, let's do it. I trust you not to suddenly change your mind either," the lilac-haired one held out his hand to Ikuto, who accepted it with a nod, sealing their agreement. Eventually, he stood up and explained that he had to leave for now. His time was slowly running out; he still couldn't reveal his true form.
The next day, as agreed, they began to ignore Amu more and not give her much attention. Ikuto also arrived at the inn a little later than usual, and when Amu sat next to him, he remained distant and responded with a friendly but slightly cool voice.
"What's going on with both of you? Did I do something wrong?" Sadness slowly built up in Amu as she looked at Ikuto with sorrowful eyes and silently sat down next to him. Nagi sighed from the other end of the room as he watched them, then joined Ikuto.
"You know, as a girl, you're quite cute... Can't you just tell me that you're actually a girl?" Ikuto had rested his face in his right hand, as he often did, and looked at Nagihiko, who was working as Nadeshiko today, with a sideways glance. The thought of their plan would be so much easier if Nagihiko were simply a woman.
Nagi grinned confidently, slowly approaching Ikuto and placing his hand gently on his chest. "Find out for yourself," he winked. Ikuto raised an eyebrow, trying to create some distance. "No, thanks." But Nagi pushed further, kissing him, followed by a provocative gesture. "Maybe that'll give you more clues," he winked again.
Ikuto took a deep breath, openly showing his disapproval. "How do you manage to have such lips?" He wiped his mouth with his hand and sighed. If it were just based on appearances and lips, he would definitely consider Nagi a woman. "Lots of care."
Meanwhile, Amu opened her mouth, stunned by the scene. "Did I miss something? Am I out of the loop, or what?" Nagi shrugged. "Who knows." Ikuto sighed in annoyance, avoiding a response.
"Can you at least tell me what I did wrong?" asked Amu, her eyes wide and sad.
"I don't know what you mean, do you?" said Nagi, tilting his head slightly and looking at Ikuto. "No idea what's wrong with her," Ikuto replied, looking at Amu. It was becoming increasingly difficult for him to remain distant when he saw her sad face.
Amu pouted and crossed her arms. "Since when do you two get along so well?"
"It's easier than constantly feuding. Although we never really did that anyway," said Nagi, striking a thoughtful pose with his hands on his face.
The following week went similarly. They only spoke the bare minimum to her and barely paid attention to her, while Ikuto discreetly practiced his blood magic. Every time he noticed someone trying to touch her, he intervened. They were subtle interventions that resembled a change of heart. When someone reached out their hand, he would instead reach for his mug and clink it with the others.
Amu grew quieter and more melancholy, her heart aching more with each passing day. Every neutral or cold glance from either of them hurt her again. Eventually, she sat down next to Ikuto in a quiet moment. She looked at him silently, but her eyes already spoke volumes. Eventually, she smiled bitterly, and tears ran down her cheeks.
Nagi threw a fleeting glance over and felt his heart tighten for a moment, but he had too many guests to go to her.
"Please stop..." sobbed Amu, trying to stop her tears. "Whatever I did, I'm sorry... But it hurts so much when you treat me like this..." Throughout this week, she had been grappling more and more with her feelings. Ultimately, she concluded that she had underestimated her feelings for the two of them.
Amu sniffled, her eyes focused on the table. "I don't know what to do... Tadase and his family wouldn't let me break off the engagement... I'd have to be banished... But how am I supposed to manage that? Besides, my feelings for him still exist..." Each word broke out of her, her voice weak and broken. Ikuto felt like a thousand little needles were piercing his skin as he saw her like this, and it pained him deeply.
"Should I have... when you both... should I really have gone on?" After days of pondering, the only thing that came to Amu's mind as something she might have done wrong was not reciprocating when both of them pushed her boundaries.
"Nonsense. You didn't do anything wrong..." For the first time in a long while, Ikuto's voice was gentle towards her. "I don't know what to do..." Amu sobbed even more than before. "How am I supposed to choose when you all have a place in my heart..." Her gaze remained lowered. "I could give up my feelings for Tadase... but then there are still two, and I would hurt Tadase and get him into trouble..."
The brunette looked to Nagihiko for help, overwhelmed by the situation. They had only planned for Amu to become somewhat more aware of her feelings, but they hadn't expected her to go so far as to consider giving up on Tadase.
Nagi threw a helpless look back, raising his arms and signaling that he just couldn't leave yet.
After another sigh, Ikuto finally stood up and sat down beside Amu, gently wrapping an arm around her. Immediately, she wrapped both arms around his waist, pressing herself tightly against him, her face hidden in his chest. He stroked her hair gently, uncertainly considering whether he should apologize and thus confess their plan.
"I'm sorry, Amu. We shouldn't have done that..." Now Ikuto's voice sounded weak too, and the sound of his words struck her deep inside.
"It's okay... you were right..." For a week, her mind had been occupied with nothing else but this painful conflict, and slowly she began to understand that they were going through this to realize the truth.
"It wasn't right..."
"Then I would still stubbornly insist that I definitely stick with Tadase, without ifs or buts..." The closeness and comfort she found in Ikuto's embrace slowly helped her calm down, and Nagi also sat down beside her now. Amu raised her head and sniffled. "Please not again..." Her eyes pleaded for understanding as she found herself in the middle of the two once more.
The boys exchanged glances with each other and couldn't help but laugh briefly.
"This isn't funny... besides... what would people think... you can't just do this here.." She continued to sniffle a little and was about to wipe away her tears when her cheeks were kissed simultaneously by both of them. They took care of the tears for her.
"Do you really love us that much?" Nagi smiled gently and stroked her head after releasing her cheek.
"Unfortunately, I guess so..." she murmured softly to herself.
"Did you hear that? Unfortunately?"
"Well, that probably only applies to you" Ikuto grinned nasty at Nagi.
Nagi raised his eyebrows incredulously and tilted his chin up a bit. "I must be hearing things" he laughed eventually.
"Unfortunately, because you both just cause me trouble!" Amu's voice trembled slightly with despair, and she shook her head.
"And you really can't say if you feel more for one of us than the other?" The brunette sighed softly after posing the question.
Ikuto and Nagihiko exchanged meaningful looks as Amu sat between them, uncertain and torn by her own feelings. The silence in the air seemed tangible, and Amu felt the weight of the decision she had to make, pressing down on her shoulders.
"I don't know..." Her voice sounded fragile as she tried to sort out her confused thoughts. Tears welled up in her eyes again, and she wiped them away with a desperate gesture.
"I'm sorry you're in this situation because of me..." Her words were barely more than a whisper, and she lowered her gaze, unable to bear the pain in the eyes of the two men.
Finally, Ikuto rose and gently stroked Amu's hair. "Enough gloominess, for now, okay?" With these words, he made his way to the stage and reached for a violin to start a cheerful tune. This decision had solidified in him over the past few days, hoping it might evoke some memories in Amu. The other musicians in the room gradually joined in, playing happily.
( https//watch?v=4C-_qmN5-mI )
Ikuto smiled softly as he played, completely immersed in the music. It had been a while since he last played, but he remembered with a warm feeling how Amu always wanted him to play for her. Memories of those days came flooding back as he surrendered himself to the music.
Nagihiko gently pulled Amu closer to him to calm her further, and together they watched Ikuto and the band. The tears in Amu's eyes slowly dried, and she admired the young man's play with a special sparkle in her eyes.
Suddenly, a sharp pain shot through Amu, and images appeared in her mind's eye. A blue-haired person in the moonlight, a young man also playing the violin. His play was beautiful yet incredibly sad. Their gazes met, and his eyes reflected pain and sorrow too.
"Amu? Can you hear me?" Nagihiko's desperate voice reached her as she held her head, her pulse racing and her breath ragged. "What was that?" she murmured softly, trying to collect herself.
Ikuto noticed something was wrong with Amu but finished playing, knowing Nagi would take care of her. He felt that his idea was successful and so nothing bad would happen to Amu.
After finishing the song, Ikuto put down the violin for a moment and stood still, watching Amu. He hadn't planned to play that melody again, but ultimately decided to do so, starting another song, this time playing alone.
( i think everyone being here knows which one, but here ya go
https//watch?v=ET8hV8yPNNQ )
Amu looked at Ikuto as he finished playing, wondering what was going on in his mind. But then she heard that melody again, this time real, right in front of her in the room. Confused, she shook her head, trying to understand what was happening.
Suddenly, another sharp pain shot through Amu, and she cried out, holding her head. Images of the blue-haired man flooded her mind, as if experiencing the scenes from another perspective. As the pain subsided, she couldn't help but smile a little. This couple seemed so happy and fulfilled, as if they could overcome anything.
Ikuto sighed softly as the last notes of the song faded away. It was as if the melody had opened a door to unpleasant memories. His gaze drifted to Amu, and a decision formed in his heart: he would play one more song. Nagi sensed his friend's intention and tried to stop him, but Ikuto shook his head resolutely and gently raised a hand, indicating he wasn't finished yet. Nagi didn't like this determination, quickly making the connection between Amu's state of mind and Ikuto's violin playing.
(why not add this one too xD)
https//watch?v=6KAgga34-VQ )
Ikuto gently plucked the strings of his violin and began to play. His fingers glided smoothly over the strings as he played a melody full of longing and emotion. Each note was like a breath of feeling that floated through the room, filling the air with an aura of nostalgia. His play was powerful yet deeply moving, as if he was drawing the music from the depths of his soul.
Amu felt the melody permeate her, and suddenly she began to hum softly. It was as if the words came automatically from her mouth, as if her voice was guided by an invisible force. She didn't know the song, had never heard the melody before, yet she felt deeply connected to the emotions it evoked.
As Ikuto continued to play, Amu began to sing the words of the song, as if she had known them all her life. The words flowed from her as if from a forgotten memory, and she felt an inexplicable warmth spreading in her heart. It was as if the music brought to life a hidden side of herself that she had not known before.
The smile on Ikuto's face deepened as he watched Amu sing the song. It was as if a breath of memory swept over her, and he felt his heart beat faster for a moment. The memory of their shared past seemed so close yet so unreachable.
Images of days gone by danced before his eyes as he remembered the first time she stood before him and sang that song. The music had a magical power that connected their hearts, and he earnestly hoped she could feel that connection. He found new hope that perhaps Amu's memories were not completely lost.
When the song ended, their eyes met, and in that moment, the world seemed to stand still around them. Between them lay an indescribable warmth, a familiarity that transcended understanding. Amu felt a strange restlessness in her chest as she couldn't tear her gaze away from Ikuto. She wondered who this blue-haired person was, and from whose perspective she had seen all those images.
Her gaze lingered on Ikuto again, and suddenly she remembered that he was the mysterious man from the masquerade ball. She had never asked why he hid his eye color behind magic, but at the moment, his hair was of greater interest. She had been too nervous and too preoccupied with calming her heart back then to pay attention to his hair color behind the mask.
Nagihiko felt a wave of relief when he realized that Amu apparently wasn't suffering any further pain from Ikuto's playing. Yet, he was also surprised when she suddenly mastered the lyrics to the song perfectly. It wasn't a melody he was familiar with; he had never heard this song before, and it seemed that the other guests hadn't either, judging by their reactions.
Eventually, Ikuto returned to the table where Nagi and Amu sat and sat across from Amu. "Who are you..." The pink-haired girl looked deep into his eyes. "Show me.." Ikuto grinned cheekily. "Well, that wouldn't be appropriate here, Princess." Amu flicked him playfully on the forehead. "Pervert.." Ikuto couldn't help but laugh. "Did you hear that, Nagi? She's calling me a pervert, of all people." He regained his composure and grinned confidently at her, his eyes locked deeply into hers.
"Do you really think now is the right time for jokes?" Nagi's face expressed concern and confusion. "Even though I have to agree with you..." he added reluctantly. After all, she was considering directions that none of them would ever dare, she was worse at such things.
"That's just how I am.." Ikuto retorted with a sigh on his lips and briefly turned his gaze to the lilac-haired boy.
"I've always been like this, and yet she fell madly in love with me," he added, then looked back at Amu.
"How can this be? Why am I seeing memories of, or with, you from someone else's perspective?" she held her forehead and supported her head. Although she hadn't received confirmation that this blue-haired man was really Ikuto, she found the coincidence with this song in the moonlight too great for it not to be.
"Why on earth do you think it would be from someone else's perspective?" he realized it would take a lot of work and luck to convince her.
"Because I don't know this person, and I've never experienced any of these memories." after all she wasn't hundred percent certain that Ikuto was the same person and even if, she never experienced any of this with him.
"Seems like I don't stand a chance anymore, huh?" Nagihiko interjected, crossing his arms behind his head.
Both looked at him incredulously and questioningly. It was strange and inappropriate to bring this up now, but Ikuto decided to answer with a sigh. "We don't know if there's more to it, just stay calm."
"What are you even talking about again?"
"I told you, memories.." Ikuto crossed his arms and looked at her hopelessly.
"That...you...ahh.." she didn't want to believe it, but with these images in her head, she had absolutely no idea what to do except to at least give Ikuto a shred of belief.
"Alright, tell me more.." she sighed and rested her head on Nagi's shoulder, while she looked at Ikuto and let him tell her everything.
"Lucky me, engaged twice...You can't tell me I can't remember any of it," her voice was accompanied by strong irony and disbelief.
"We can make it three times." Nagi grinned and stuck out his tongue.
"Unromantic." Ikuto looked at Nagihiko judgmentally.
"That wasn't even a proposal.."
"Somehow already..." Amu and Ikuto expressed simultaneously.
"His proposal was certainly more romantic than that," she laughed briefly, teasing Nagihiko, of course.
"I'm not proposing when I don't stand a chance anyway.." he muttered sulkily to himself, crossing his arms.
"I told you my feelings for you are the same..why do you think that?" the black-haired girl sighed and gently stroked Nagi's cheek.
"Because I believe him. There's too much evidence supporting it."
"Don't you see how she's resisting it? She'll never believe me, who knows if she'll ever remember enough of everything."
"Is anyone actually working for their money here, or did I pay you to chat?" Aaron finally intervened in the conversation of the three.
"What do you want, old man? You just want to eavesdrop. We haven't been sitting here that long, and there was music playing in between." He stuck out his tongue at him but then stood up to serve the guests again. "Spend time alone. I'll handle it today. We can't keep dilly-dallying forever. Maybe something will come of it."
Amu shrugged. "Maybe I'll just take both of you, easiest solution." She stuck her tongue out at him and then stood up to offer Ikuto her hand.
"That would be an option." Nagihiko countered with a serious expression, shrugging his shoulders.
Amu looked at him puzzledly, then turned to Ikuto, who also just shrugged. "You're not serious about that, are you?"
"Before that could even remotely become a topic, you need to consider what you really want and what's going on with Tadase." Eventually, he took her hand and stood up to leave the inn. He sighed because he should probably also insist that the two of them spend some time alone together sometime soon.
Outside, Ikuto crossed his arms behind his head and cast a longing glance into the darkness. "What are we supposed to do now? It's evening." Despite his words, he decided to leave the town. After all, it wouldn't matter much there if he exceeded his time limit - except maybe Amu's reaction to it.
The girl followed him silently for a while until they finally entered a gloomy forest permeated by a lack of light. Nervously, Amu swallowed.
"So, a lunatic trying to kill me after all, huh?" she tried to overcome her fears with a joke.
"At least you're not thinking perverted for once," Ikuto replied with a shrug and a teasing grin before sticking out his tongue at her. "Just trust me," he added.
"I do," she murmured, wrapping her arms around his, pressing herself slightly against him, feeling a little anxious.
They walked through absolute darkness for a while longer until they finally stopped, and Amu's eyes filled and widened with light.
Hidden amidst the dense forest laid a mysterious pond, of which the ancients had long told tales. In the darkness of the night, it shone like a sparkling gem, its surface penetrated by a gentle, shimmering light. The stars of the night sky reflected clearly and vividly in the calm water's surface, as if the pond itself were a portal to the infinite expanses of the universe.
A touch of magic lingered in the air as small lights danced over the water's surface like fireflies, their delicate glow filling the surroundings with a fairy-tale shine. Around the pond grew luminous flowers in the brightest colors, their petals seeming to dance in the gentle breeze. The trees along the shore leaned reverently over the water, whispering softly to the nocturnal sky.
From time to time, a gentle melody rose from the heart of the pond, a harmonious symphony of nature that enchanted the senses and touched the souls of those who could hear it. It was as if the pond itself came alive, its magic filling the night and captivating every visitor.
It was said that those who approached the pond in the silence of the night were touched by its mysterious powers. Some claimed that it turned the dreams of those who approached its shore into vivid visions, while others believed it revealed the secrets of the universe.
But regardless of the legends and myths surrounding the magical pond, its beauty and enchantment were undeniable. Few managed to find this place and even fewer remembered the way back, so this pond was generally considered a pure fairy tale.
"But...this is just a myth.." her breath caught with excitement.
Ikuto had often dealt with this world, although it didn't seem so, and so he came across this legend. It cost him some sleepless nights, but ultimately he found it indeed. However, why he could remember the way was a mystery to him. Was his sleeping power too strong for something like this to affect him, or was it because he was actually a stranger in this world? Since he had found it, however, it was clear to him that if Amu ever wanted to do something alone with him, he would lead her here.
"As you can see, it's not just a legend," he sat down on a rock near the pond, and all the colorful hues and lights reflected in Ikuto's eyes. "How long have we been walking?" Amu sat down beside him, and as she gazed at the pond, she realized she had lost all sense of time along the way.
"Hard to say," Ikuto felt the same, which made him a little nervous, but even if it happened, she would eventually have to find out who he was.
"You know...I actually know nothing about you. It's a mystery to me why you're so deeply rooted in my heart. Won't you finally tell me more about yourself?" Amu played with a strand of her hair as she continued to gaze at the pond.
Ikuto chuckled ironically. "More than what I've already told you, but you refuse to believe? There's not much more to say, Princess," he called her that not because of her status, but because he always did so in the past.
Amu sighed and crossed her arms, silently admiring the glow of the pond. "I have this friend...who said you were the true king?" her voice broke the silence she had built.
"Must be a strange person."
"It's so ironic...Tadase is finally trying to be nice to me and I'm madly in love with two others...I feel so bad," she tried to find topics to talk about, as Ikuto remained relatively quiet, and sharing her feelings was not a bad idea.
"Well, it can't be that madly if you're still unsure," he teasingly grinned and nudged her shoulder lightly with his. "Listen to your heart, Amu. I will always love you, no matter what happens. I think Nagi feels the same way. Even if neither of us can fill your heart with joy and happiness, we'll always accept your decision. Even though, of course, I wouldn't have to." he grinned mischievously for a moment, slowly raised his finger, and waved it to her. A silent command that drew her closer, like a magnet irresistibly attracting her, yet not of her own will, she had no control over her body, and before she knew it, she found herself in a gentle kiss with Ikuto, initiated by her without actually doing it herself.
She tried to resist, but her body didn't move an inch, only when Ikuto stopped controlling her blood, she could pull away. "You can control people..?" her gaze betrayed uncertainty. She didn't know what to make of such an ability, and faint bells were ringing in her head. It reminded her of something, but she didn't know what.
"I obviously don't use it for dark or wrong purposes, otherwise I would have made use of it with you long ago."
"Mhm..." she looked absentmindedly at the pond, trying to form an opinion about it.
"I didn't expect it to fail just because of that," he smiled bitterly and stood up. "Let's just leave then," as he turned around and was about to leave, she held him by the wrist.
"No. It's just a scary thought. You could do anything to me or make me do terrible things..but.." she hesitated for a moment and took a deep breath. "I..I don't think you would do that.."
"If you're that unsure, then this is all a bad idea. I thought you knew I would never do anything against your will." a veil of deep sorrow enveloped his heart. He hadn't done anything to deserve such uncertainty. The world was unfair. Tadase did bad things such as abusing her and had her full trust, yet she was now afraid of him.
"And yet you just did it, and in the past, you've kissed me over and over again..." she continued to hold him and looked at the ground.
"I just demonstrated and made it clear that I accept your decision, even though I wouldn't even have to...as for the other times. Who do you want to lie to? Yourself or me? I can interpret body language quite well. Would you please let go of me now?" he slightly pulled his arm forward and tried to get her to let go. He couldn't believe that she blamed him for every interaction now. She showed very well, that she was thinking and wanting it.
Suddenly, a dark, deep growl pierced the silence, followed by a wild howl that made Amu panic and let go of Ikuto in a frenzy. She stood frozen, staring at the other side of the lake, where glowing red eyes approached them, large and menacing. Ikuto also turned around but remained calm, his expression undisturbed.
A creature that looked like an oversized black wolf suddenly leaped out of the darkness and seemed to want to pounce on Amu. But Ikuto stood protectively in front of her, his hand raised, as he looked at the creature with a serious, yet gentle gaze. He had discovered a connection to these creatures; they sensed his emotions. "It's okay," he murmured reassuringly.
The creature tilted its head and sat down in front of Ikuto, as if understanding his words. These beings were called hellhounds, but for Ikuto, that term was irrational. Despite their demonic nature, they were empathetic creatures.
The hellhound gently nuzzled up to Ikuto, who sank to his knees and embraced the creature. It felt the boy's pain and the strong urge to comfort him and rid him of the source of his negative emotions. "Thank you, but you should go, my friend," Ikuto said softly, his smile warm as he stroked the hellhound's head. The creature hesitated for a moment, then got up and disappeared back into the shadows of the night.
Everything had happened too quickly for Amu, and she remained frozen for a moment even after the creature had attacked. Eventually, she grew annoyed with her own passivity. She should have tried to defend herself with her magic instead of standing there paralyzed, waiting for her fate.
"What was that just now...Why does that monster listen to you..?" even though she didn't want to, her belief in Ikuto continued to wane.
"They're not monsters," he said seriously and grimly as he glanced at her from the corner of his eye. Amu flinched and swallowed hard.
"They're misunderstood, you see? These creatures are far more empathetic than most humans. For some reason, I have a connection to them. They sense my emotions," he explained before turning his gaze away again and eventually standing up.
Silently, Amu stared at him, unsure of what to think or do now. But she could guess why the creature had attacked her, if Ikuto's words were true. She had hurt him. "I'm sorry..."
"It doesn't matter. Let's just go. I can hardly leave you here alone," he replied coldly and indifferently. Amu's heart ached at his cold reaction. The way he treated her pierced her with a sharp pain and brought her to her senses instantly. It didn't matter who he was. It was too late for that. She couldn't and wouldn't bear the pain she would feel without him.
"Amu! Get up and go!" he called louder as she still stood motionless.
She flinched and moved, but instead of walking away, she approached him. But he immediately grabbed her hand and pulled her along behind him, while she protested with all her might. "Ikuto, please, stop!" she pleaded.
He stopped and turned to her, his eyes filled with pain. "Do you know how much it hurts, how you treat me? Your oh-so-perfect prince gets to abuse you, and you still worship him. But I'm immediately a bad person because I show you my power, which I didn't choose?" he still yelled, and Amu recoiled, frightened by his intensity.
Amu continued to look at him, intimidated, as she felt her cheek grow warm and wet. She wiped it with her hand and noticed the tears streaming from her eyes. "I'm sorry... I know I was stupid..." she whispered.
"How am I supposed to stay by your side if you don't trust me? If you're afraid of me? Amu, it's not possible anymore," he said with a serious look.
Her throat felt like there was a lump in it, and she fought to keep her emotions under control, so she wouldn't cry out loud. Slowly, she sank to her knees and stared at the ground. "Please... don't do this..."
"You still have Tadase or Nagi... My feelings for you haven't changed, but this just can't continue," he continued. It would break his heart to know that his partner was constantly afraid of him or mistrusted him. Yet he felt his own heart breaking with each word he spoke.
Amu felt her heart pounding in her chest as she looked at Ikuto. "No, let's resolve this," she said firmly, though her voice trembled. "Please... I'm sorry... how many times do I have to say it... I just made a stupid mistake.."
Ikuto sighed and ran his hand through his hair, his eyes filled with anguish. "What else is there to resolve, Amu?" he asked softly. "You don't trust me. You're afraid of me. What am I supposed to do?"
"I trust you... and I'm not afraid of you..." Amu whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. She looked deep into his eyes, and despite the tears streaming down her cheeks, her determination shone like a fire in the darkness.
Ikuto's gaze was an ocean of contradictions, marked by pain and doubt. With each passing second, his trust seemed to diminish, and the emptiness in his eyes grew. "How am I supposed to believe you anymore..." he breathed, his voice broken by the weight of his thoughts. "Tadase, Nagi, and now this, there are just too many uncertainties. You would only make the wrong decision. Your actions speak for themselves." he smiled bitterly and sighed.
The words cut like a knife through Amu's heart, and her hands dug into the ground beneath her. "So now you suddenly don't care about my happiness.." she whispered, the despair in her voice almost unbearable.
Ikuto's smile was a shadow of his former self, a sad reflection of what once was. "Obviously, my feelings don't matter to you, but fine... I belong to you, for your sake, even though I think it's a bad idea and I'll probably just suffer." His words were a confession of pain and self-blame, yet he knelt before her, ready to keep his promise, even if it would eventually break his heart completely.
Amu's heart raced, a wild pounding in her chest that drowned out the sound of her despair. Why did it have to be like this? She didn't want to see him so broken, not in a moment that should be filled with love. With trembling hands, she cupped his face and pulled him hesitantly, yet gently into a kiss, accompanied by a sea of tears. The salt crystals gleamed on his skin, a silent testimony to his broken soul.
"I love you Ikuto.. and I've felt this invisible connection with you since the first day, which I can't explain," she whispered, her words carried by a whisper of hope.
His response was just a soft 'Mhm' his eyes filling with tears once again, which he desperately tried to suppress. He knew his mere presence would only further fuel her mistrust. The transformation began, his hair and eyes permeated by a deep blue, and his face took on its true form, a mirror of his broken self. The emptiness in his eyes was a silent accusation against the fate that had struck them both so hard.
"So, this is your true self?" Amu's voice trembled as she tried to conceal her confusion and tumultuous emotions. "Then I guess I'll have to learn how to be evil?" Her words hung heavily in the air, laden with a mixture of pain and determination.
Ikuto sighed heavily, his voice a soft echo of his inner torment. "As you wish...if that's your image of me and it makes you happy, I'll live up to that image..." he was nothing but an empty shell of himself, caused by the way she looked at him and how she apparently thought of him. How could she see him with such eyes?
Amu was about to react when a faint humming pierced the heavy atmosphere. It was like the enticing call of an old friend beckoning her. Without hesitation, she followed the sound, leading her to the glowing pond. She knelt down and stared spellbound at the shimmering surface, which acted as a mirror of the night. As the image of her own face distorted and slowly faded, the pond began to reveal a scene from the past.
Amu saw a young Ikuto, lonely and vulnerable, tears streaming down his cheeks. It was a scene known to everyone in the kingdom, the story of a lost child who killed his own parents. Before the scene could progress further, the water was suddenly interrupted by a stone thrown by Ikuto. Confused and disappointed, Amu turned to him.
"Why did you do that?" she asked softly, her voice trembling with emotions.
"Why seek answers you already know?" He tilted his head to the side, his face contorting into a grim grin. "We're all familiar with the story of how I tore my parents into the abyss. A tragedy, indeed." His voice echoed with a touch of madness, and Amu felt a cold shiver run down her spine. She didn't know him like this.
Once again, the pond attempted to bring forth images from her past, but Ikuto didn't allow it. His gaze was condescending as he laughed mockingly. "Are you even capable of being evil?" he asked. "Could you ever kill your own parents?"
Amu fell silent, her thoughts swirling. Had his previous behavior been just a facade? Had he been lying to her from the beginning? She shook her head, unable to grasp what was happening. "No, I couldn't," she finally answered in a broken voice. "But could you please stop playing this theater? I've understood what the problem is. I don't see the evil in you...but could you show a little understanding for me? Isn't it understandable that I'm overwhelmed and reacting to what I've heard all my life? But even if you...were that person you're pretending to be right now...then so be it."
"Oh, innocent Amu, how naive you are," he continued to play his role. Through her actions today, she had repeatedly shown him that she believed him to be a bad person, so she should get what she wanted.
"Well, if you're so evil, then do something to me. Hit me, take what Tadase had, anything," she challenged, standing just inches away from him, her gaze ablaze.
Unfazed, he roughly grabbed her by the throat and pulled her into a kiss, his hands roaming over her body. "But it's no fun if you want it," he murmured, his breath hot against her skin. He licked her neck and then released her.
"Aha. Coward," she taunted him, still looking at him challengingly.
"Evil people do that. I'm the crown princess, a weak girl, alone with you in the forest. Just imagine the chaos and the pain Tadase would feel if I couldn't carry his child anymore because I'm carrying another. And he wouldn't even find out until it's time," her voice was calm, but beneath the facade of calmness simmered a hidden intensity. "If you're so evil, prove it." Her words were like sharp blades flying between them, as the tension between them continued to escalate.
Ikuto looked at her silently for a moment, his eyes playing a game of mistrust and desire. Then, without saying a word, he seized her wrists and pressed her against a tree. His breath was hot, and his eyes sparkled with tension.
Amu felt her heartbeat pounding in her ears as she maintained eye contact with him. A mixture of fear and excitement flooded her as she heard his rough voice: "You're asking for it, Amu." The expression in his eyes was dark, and his grin was almost eerie.
"You won't do it anyway," she was absolutely sure of this statement and raised her chin slightly.
Ikuto pressed her harder against the tree, his hands firmly gripping her wrists. His breathing was irregular as he pierced her with an intense gaze. "Are you sure about that?" he murmured, his voice dangerously low.
Amu felt the pressure of his body against hers and the close proximity between them. A shiver ran down her spine as she couldn't decipher the expression in his eyes. Yet, she refused to back down. "Yes, I am," she replied firmly, trying to conceal her budding uncertainty.
In that moment, the world seemed to stand still around them. The tension between them was palpable, and she could feel the crackle of electric energy dancing between their bodies.
Ikuto's grip loosened slightly, and he held her gaze for a moment longer. Then, with an inscrutable expression in his eyes, he slowly let her go and stepped back.
Amu took a deep breath as she felt the sudden distance between them. Her thoughts were swirling as she tried to sort out the confusing emotions within her.
"Decide what you want..." Ikuto rolled his eyes, but his expression now seemed more like his usual self. "I want you to finally stop holding it against me and be normal again," she replied, her words tinged with a hint of weariness.
"You must really be spoiled, huh? You can't ruthlessly hurt people and then tell them to just be normal again," he continued, shaking his head and adopting a resigned look.
"But I'm sorry... I'm still here... despite knowing your true appearance," Amu said softly, her voice tinged with remorse.
"That's only because I look even better like this," Ikuto retorted confidently, a self-assured grin on his lips that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"Conceited jerk... But still better than your ridiculous theatrics or what I've triggered..." Her voice sounded amused at first, but towards the end, there was a hint of sadness.
"We really should go."
Amu tilted her head slightly to the side, her gaze piercing through him, and slowly she approached. Her facial expression revealed nothing, which made Ikuto feel uneasy. From this person's perspective, she had learned something she now wanted to try out. He nervously watched the girl, occasionally recoiling, but not often enough to prevent her from reaching him. Her warm breath brushed against his neck. Ikuto felt his pulse quicken, swallowing hard.
Gently, she kissed his neck, and every touch sent an electrifying sensation through his skin. When she finally gave him a bite as well, she worked her way up. "Amu, please... stop..." Ikuto tried to push her away gently. But the princess remained undeterred, whispering in his ear and biting him confidently. Ikuto's entire body tensed, his breathing became fast and heavy.
She pressed closer to him, her warmth enveloping him. "What are you doing..." he whispered with a trembling voice, pressing her away harder.
"I wanted to test your reaction after knowing your weaknesses..." She looked at him, biting her lip, then returned to his neck. He felt the desire rising within him, which made him feel uncomfortable, because she felt it just as closely as he did. "Amu..." he gasped, strained. "Please... I can't endure this for long... stop and let's go..." He held her only by her waist, making no attempt to respond.
She gently traced her finger over his neck, while her tongue played with his ear. Ikuto took a deep breath and pressed her against the tree. "Stop," he said with a stern look and a firm voice, holding her wrists upwards against the tree.
"Why..." She looked deep into his eyes.
"Because you're in a relationship. Because you don't want to be the kind of person who cheats. Those are your words and a good attitude."
"I'll end it..." Amu's determination shone from her eyes, but also a mixture of confusion and longing.
"Don't make decisions in the heat of the moment," Ikuto urged, his voice heavy and his hands tight around hers.
"Why don't you... I don't understand you..." she sighed, trying to free her hands, while her gaze searched for answers.
"Because I don't want you to regret anything. Why don't you stick to your own words?" Ikuto continued, his breath still heavy with tension.
"But that was before... Things have changed..." Amu whispered, her eyes full of longing as she was torn between whether to give in to her own desires or not.
"What about Nagi? Is that fair to him? Don't you love us both equally?" he finally let go of her, not to hurt her.
Amu remained silent. She had no answer to that. "Don't do anything you might regret," Ikuto repeated gently.
Nevertheless, she approached him again, and the passion reignited between them. Ikuto desperately fought against the overwhelming feeling that tingled like a thousand electric shocks over his skin. His mind was clouded by the emerging lust, and he felt himself losing control as he pressed her against the tree again, kissing her neck and wandering his hands over her body.
His breathing was rapid, his heart threatened to leap out of his chest, yet for a moment, he closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and let go of her. He sank to the ground, his hands buried in his hair, still struggling against the overwhelming feeling that overwhelmed him.
"You're cruel..." he whispered laboriously, his lips trembling as he continued to fight against the storm within him.
"I'm not... You're making it hard for yourself..." she sighed softly, her gaze resting on him.
"That I have to stand up for what's right because you can't, and that you deliberately exploit my weaknesses over and over again, is pretty cruel..." his words were tinged with a hint of desperation.
She sat down next to him, trying to hug him, but his body was so overwrought that even this gesture seemed to act against his will, and he withdrew from it. "Give me a few minutes... Every touch feels like fire..." he stammered.
With those words, Amu bit her lip again and began to kiss him. Ikuto pushed her back onto the ground and passionately returned her kisses, igniting even more sparks in his body. His lips trailed down to her neck, leaving their marks, but then he pulled away from her again and lay on his back. He closed his eyes, placed his arm over them, and his head pounded heavily. "Just stop," he murmured softly, his voice broken.