Chapter Text
The sun wasn’t up yet when Michikatsu left their primary base. He was informed, after all, that an attack would occur in the morning, so before that could happen, he has to reach Mount Natagumo first before their enemies could. Once he arrived, he will see to it that all the remaining people residing in that area, including the valuable loot they have stored, will be safe and secured. Then, they shall leave at once before the soldiers of the kingdom have arrived.
If it were to end badly, then the last option to take is to abandon the mission.
Michikatsu currently had his head low, sneaking about as he traveled. His cloak covered his form and he acted swiftly despite the darkness shrouded over the path. He, of course, needed to be careful as there could be eyes watching him at the moment.
It is a long journey to reach the base.
He navigated through the thick forest. The tall trees eerily wrapped his small figure as he trekked on, growing anxious every minute as darkness loomed menacingly. Deeper and deeper he went.
The atmosphere of the area was quite unhelpful. The very forest reminded him of an old memory. One he vividly remembers and one he wants to forget. Nevertheless, Michikatsu brushes that away, focusing on the mission at hand despite the ghost of that childhood memory lingering within his mind.
The path to the base is difficult. People often get lost in this dangerous forest if they aren’t so careful. Hours had passed and he has yet to fully reach their base. However, after what felt like years, he had finally arrived. The moment he spotted their base, Michikatsu couldn’t help but release a sigh of relief. Immediately, he saw wagons, piles of boxes, and his men who had arrived earlier than him surrounding the place and packing things up.
Michikatsu immediately returned to his stern self. All in business now as his men began to notice his presence.
They bowed as the high-ranking man approached them. Silence quickly came to greet them as they observed that a majestic presence had entered the territory.
“Lord Kokushibo, greetings.” One of his men took the pleasure to address him. Those tired eyes trained on Michikatsu with a tinge of relief. “I take it the walk has been uneventful.”
“Yes,” Michikatsu agreed with a short nod. “I do not sense any unwelcomed aura in the area, but that does not mean that we should take our time to pack. We must hurry so that we could cover our tracks at best.”
The man straightened at the steely voice. “Yes, sir!” He swiftly turned around to face the others. “Come on, men! Get moving! Double-time, double-time!”
As everyone rushes to evacuate under the watchful gaze of the Upper Moon One, the sun begins to rise slowly, much to the distaste of Michikatsu. Although the place is still dark due to the thick forest amassing the territory, he knows that it won’t be long before the light will eventually brighten the place as well.
This does not bode well for him and for the rest of the men as it means that their tracks could be noticed too soon due to the light that would break through these large trees. Their enemies could use the light to their advantage to find the path they will be taking to go to their original base. Not only that, but this is a sign that their enemies will come sooner than expected.
After all, Nakime had only declared that a team of soldiers will arrive early in the morning.
‘But how early, I wonder?’
Michikatsu frowned at the alarming thought and went straight to action without further ado. “We have to leave this place now!” All the men stopped what they were doing at the booming voice of their leader. “Everyone in charge of taking care of the wagons must take their place. As for the rest of the loot that has not been stored in the wagons yet, it shall be that you must carry them. We will leave now!”
This earned the man looks of disbelief. Hesitancy clouded the men as they muttered silently over this rapid decision. “B-B-But sir! We still have items left inside the base! We can’t leave th––”
“If you prefer to value this clutter over your own life, then do as you please. I said what I said. Now!” Michikatsu did not stay to watch their reaction, rather, had proceeded to march to another path of the forest; a path that is hidden quite well from others. A few hours ago, he memorized the map of this territory before he could head here, and takes full confidence in leading their team for the purpose of not giving away their position immediately.
However, with their multiple wagons stationed everywhere, the wheels would leave a mark on the ground, leaving a trail to where they were going, thus, compromising the hidden path that was supposed to be unknown to their enemies.
So, without hesitation, Michikatsu walks straight to Rui, the Lower Moon Five, who is present and is in charge of this base, and who was also currently ensuring that the wagons can freely move despite the rocky surface. Rui stands awaiting on the path, seemingly knowing that Michikatsu would choose this way for them to leave.
“We would depart using this track, I presume, Lord Kokushibo?”
“Indeed,” Michikatsu confirmed. “It is to ensure that our enemies would never predict where we exited the forest.”
Rui looked contemplative for a short moment, but his eyes reflected a look of understanding. “The road will be rough and the wagons would have difficulty maneuvering due to the fallen logs, small rivers, and unstable boulders, but it will have to do. There is no other choice…”
They both analyzed the dangerous road ahead of them.
“It is the only way… It is a risk I have to take. The possibility that some of our wagons may have trouble continuing through the path is high, thus, having to abandon some behind, but yes, this is the only shortcut.”
The young man hummed in agreement. “Then, we shall proceed, Lord Kokushibo.”
But Michikatsu is not done yet. His expression is serious and dark. “Rui, you will cover our tracks to the best of your ability. Ensure that no one can follow us, which is why I will have to place you at the back. I will stay at the front to lead our men out of this forest.”
As if to agree with him, Rui made a show of his fingers as he used his magic; entangling and detangling, revealing thin lines of web sticking on his small hands. The magic coursed inside him as he nodded with reverence. “Understood.”
Rui faced the group of men and then at lightning speed, used his magic delicately. A string of web appeared from his hand. He flung his arms sidewards and the threads lengthen. Rui threw the long webs to the boxes and wagons, serving as a tie so that the boxes on the wagons would not fall easily.
“Follow Lord Kokushibo! Leave the rest of the things behind. We do not have the time now. Let us move.” Rui ordered, then proceed to use his threads to lock the boxes down.
Immediately, everyone proceed with what was being said with no hesitation. There was something threatening brewing over them which isn’t a good sign. Already, they started receiving bad feelings about this. The sun is rising fast, significantly showing that they do not have any time left whatsoever. The looks on their faces are full of anxiousness and panic, fully aware too late that they had taken too long to pack everything.
“Come on. Any minute now then they will arrive.” Michikatsu began to walk to their strange path. The noises of the wagon trailing behind him were something Michikatsu never thought to be relieved to hear.
‘Finally, we can get out of here.’
He only hoped that Rui did well in covering the trails behind them. Their lives depended on it.
~~~
“This place looked empty, don’t you think?” One of the soldiers questioned as he eyed the dreadful base before them.
His friend hummed in thought. “But it felt like this area was full of life a minute ago.”
“Why, of course!” The slayer rolled his eyes. “This was occupied by rebels! Of course, it would feel like there was life in here.”
Amid all these chatterings, the sun had already risen yet darkness seemed to remain persistent as the thick trees shield them from the light.
The whole place was packed with soldiers of the kingdom. Armed with their swords and appearing ready for battle, but were faced with complete disappointment when they realize that the whole area of what supposedly is a battlefield is only just an abandoned shelter that was once belonging to the rebellion.
Footsteps bounced inside the base, a fellow soldier approached the two individuals in attention. “You two, quit idling around, have you completed your investigation in this room?”
A ground resonated through the room. “What is there to investigate? There’s nothing here!” The soldier pointed out beside him. “Aside from some tables and chairs, and oh, look! Shelves! All empty, too!”
The newcomer sighed in exasperation. “Oh, come on now. Let’s go outside. All I find in here are junk, too.”
When they left the base to head outside, all the soldiers who were waiting outside were looking at them expectantly. The three soldiers who were assigned to investigate straightened. All humor and relaxation disappeared as they proceed to their report, informing the rest of their findings.
“There is no one inside. We found no trace of recent activity behind. However, there are some items left in some rooms which were completely abandoned.”
“Though we could deduct that there is some suspicious activity. We feel that the base was abandoned very recently. No speck of dust and dirt marred the tables, however, we cannot truly declare it so as there were cobwebs on every corner.”
Suddenly, another set of hurried footsteps echoed in the silent area from beside them, and a moment later, a soldier came into view from behind. This soldier is placed on a different team, assigned to investigate the activity of the exterior of the base. The soldier immediately stands in attention, with his head straight and eyes forward. “I have found evidence of recent activity! There appear to be several boxes left behind on the base.”
There, at the center of all the encircled slayers stationed around; surrounded by a group of strong soldiers–– a man revealed himself and approaches the soldier nonchalantly. They wait with bated breath as he calmly says. “And do you think that these boxes are new?”
“Affirmative!” The soldier said, unwavering.
The man touched his sword attached to his hip and then eyed the thick forest before them with deep contemplation. “Then it means that they are still here in the forest.” He faced his men, who were quick to stand in attention and ordered. “Scatter. We must find them before they escape us.”
All the slayers in the area knelt on the ground out of compliance. “Yes, Your Majesty.”
The man trained his maroon eyes on the two particular soldiers who stood out from the rest. “Giyuu, Shinobu, divide these soldiers and take a group of your own. Giyuu will take this side of the forest, while Shinobu will scout on the right.”
Giyuu, the water pillar, remained kneeling in silence with a short nod. His eyes are cold and bear no expression whatsoever.
“I will do so with success, Your Majesty.” Shinobu, the insect pillar, affirmed. A delighted smile on her face. A polar opposite to the man kneeling beside her.
Everyone took action accordingly.
The sun still shone brightly as ever, slowly and surely engulfing the place with light.
The man returned gazing at the thick forest. A particular memory flashed in his mind and slowly but surely, he walked towards the intimidating trees with no doubt. “So… Hide and seek, it is then, Michikatsu.”
~~~
Michikatsu watches as a flock of birds flew past them over their heads. Already, a frown marred his face.
“My lord, is something wrong?” One of his men questions, walking up to him with a worried glance.
They halted only for a moment when they realize that their leader had stopped. Michikatsu did not answer the man but moved his eyes to the rest of the people. “We shall hurry.” He proceeds to march forward, not waiting if they’re following him.
That alone caused some anxious glances to pass over one another before they follow him with no questions.
While they moved, the people are unaware of the inner turmoil Upper Moon One is facing.
Michikatsu couldn’t help but recall his past. The dark and eerie forest did not appease at all. It reminded him too much of his time as a child and up to his teenage years. With evidence surrounding him; the giant rocks, the noises from the animals, the tall trees, and the shadow looming over him strangely, it only provided him memories he wishes to forget.
The forest was his older brother’s favorite playground . A damning thing. Deeming it worthy to spend time in as it is wide open and had enough obstacles for games such as hide and seek. Though it is a dangerous place for two royal members to be around in, it was still perfect to release all their energy and stress.
However, Michikatsu couldn’t say the same. He has no love for forests, no love for games, and loathed the idea of being the prey in every game he and his brother played. So just the sight of these trees is enough to fuel the anger residing within him, unable to control the urge to curl his fists out of pure rage.
The unbridled fury overtook his senses that he didn’t realize he was walking all too fast now, forcing his men to keep up and urge their horses to trot hurriedly.
Michikatsu avoids looking at the trees as the mere sight of them caused a flash of an unwelcoming memory to invade his mind. He grits his teeth, a scowl plastered on his face, while he relentlessly proceeds to move, ignoring the scratches and scrapes of sharp rocks and branches wounding his legs.
“Lord Kokushibo!”
He snapped his head up and saw a giant butterfly coming their way.
Immediately, he unsheathes his sword and parried the blade abruptly that swung at him.
Michikatsu assumed a defensive stance. The horses neighed loudly at the disturbance, and numerous shouts were heard behind him. Nevertheless, he did not look back to check up on his men. Because the ominous danger is just straight ahead of him. Said danger flew back since the soldier was pushed away by the strong parry Michikatsu delivered.
‘A pillar…’ Michikatsu mused, holding his sword tightly, not looking away from that lethal presence before him. ‘I did not think they would bring a pillar into this kind of mission.’
The unwelcomed presence of this slayer had her back on him. She was kneeling with her arms wide open. Her blade was still wobbling from the impact. “Oh my, oh my… Looks like I found myself facing a challenging opponent.” The soldier slowly stood up with elegance, and as she turned to face him, she twirled her sword in a complicated pattern with such confidence. It was enough to lighten the flame of annoyance within Michikatsu. “You are quick to block my attack, sir. It was as if you knew I was coming.”
He didn’t. He didn’t have the magic to sense his environment. However, he was knowledgeable and deeply aware that their enemies had already arrived, who in return knew of their intentions. He was extremely on high alert in his surroundings for he knew that their enemies would come looking for them anytime. It was the reason why his body was so tense that he could see the speed of attack coming his way. Not only that but his men were full of magic as well, although not as powerful as the high-ranking individuals, but enough magic to shout his name that implies alarm. It caught his attention, which he is grateful about.
Michikatsu takes a short glance over his side of the area and notices that they were surrounded. The soldiers of the kingdom circled his men who were also unleashing their magic in preparation for an assault.
“I suspect you are not the only pillar here.” Michikatsu’s voice, void of any emotion, resonated.
The pillar gleamed in delight at the guess. “Ah, you’re a smart one, too!” Her eyes narrowed at him sharply despite her happy demeanor. “You are correct. I am not alone.”
Michikatsu’s expression was the complete opposite. He wore a thunderous look and emits a dangerous aura that even the pillar froze where she is. “For a small mission, why is there a need for the presence of a pillar? Mentioning the fact that you also brought at least fifty men on your arsenal when your mission is to raid our base.”
“Hm…” She appeared thoughtful but not surprised. “It appears you knew of our plan in the beginning. I wonder why that is…”
“Answer my question!”
However, the soldier only gave him a wide smile that looked all too fake in his eyes. “With all honesty, I do not have the answer to that!”
‘What? That can’t be right.’ Michikatsu scowled.
“I was only simply following orders straight from the top! Therefore, I could not object.” She supplied. “I was informed of the mission. To take the base from our enemy and that is all… However…” She trailed off again, and her eyes were shut close and her lips pursed as if she was in deep thought. “I do have a feeling that there was another motive behind this mission. Then again, I am not so sure!”
For some reason, Michikatsu’s hairs on his skin rose with a creeping sensation. He breathed in at the assumption the pillar had declared. Already, he could feel the drop of the atmosphere around him, as if telling him of the massive danger that he was all too late to avoid. Trepidation filled his mind in an instant.
The pillar’s voice seemed to echo in his mind.
‘I was only simply following orders straight from the top!’
Michikatsu had a bad feeling about this.
“Isn’t it strange?” The pillar continued to talk. “Plans have changed, as you can see. We now fight in the morning! Ah, how I despise that. Morning is supposed to be our resting time, yet it was taken away from us.” She tuts, shaking her head in disappointment. “Hm, I truly wonder about the depths of His Majesty’s plan.”
In a blink of an eye, Michikatsu closed the distance between them and swung his sword in retaliation. The pillar jumped to dodge the attack with her increased senses. While in the air, the pillar thrust her thin weapon, targeting Michikatsu’s face. Yet he could read her movements all too easily as he pushed himself away with an upper swing at her blade, then took long steps back.
The battle had commenced. All his men also charged, using their magic to gain the upper hand.
Michikatsu knew they are completely outnumbered. He had no choice but to take a drastic change of plans.
But before he could order his men, the pillar came in a barrage of quick movements to hinder what he is supposed to do.
She is indeed fast. Fit to be a pillar for all her might. Her magic gravitated within her body, which aided her in this very fight. However, Michikatsu is a heavily-trained fighter. He is not a magic user, therefore, his training had been intense and unforgiving to his body. He had handled soldiers with magic before and fought stronger pillars than her. Even without his magic, he could see her intentions very quickly, thus, able to block and parry and deliver his attacks.
‘There!’
When the pillar decided to back away by performing multiple flips from him, he took this chance to exert his movements as fast as he can. He launched forward, not wanting her to get away, and grabbed her exposed leg, clenching her calf tightly to the point it bruised–– the pillar yelped when he did so ––and with all his might, lifted her high and threw her away with a roar.
Without further ado, Michikatsu yelled his orders in a booming voice. “All men leave the premises immediately! Leave everything behind and run!”
Chaos ensues as the rebellion scrambled away. Their manpower stands no chance, exhausted as they are from their early mission. Michikatsu’s men darted from the battlefield since they know that they are too unprepared to fight against these soldiers.
While the pillar was still recovering from being tossed away, Michikatsu felt a prickly sensation sticking in his torso. He allowed himself to be tugged away as light but strong strings attached themselves to him. Michikatsu was floating until he reached a branch on a tree, and he quickly gained composure the moment his feet landed on the thick branch. With this viewpoint, he could look down to see the mess that had occurred.
“Mission failed, I presumed?” Rui removed the strings from Michikatsu’s body. Both men did not look away from their opponents below them.
“It is a lost cause the moment a pillar is involved.” It was only Michikatsu’s answer as his thoughts roamed deep and far. “I believe we have landed ourselves in an even bigger situation than we all had hoped for.”
They saw the pillar moving about but were unable to locate the two. Michikatsu did not linger for long as he sheathed his sword and hopped away from one branch to another, as silently and quickly as possible.
While they escaped, Rui, who simply followed him, decided to question the ominous accusation that left them both unsettled. “Lord Muzan had only informed me that our base would be compromised.” He sliced off the obstacles that seemed to block their path of escape. “I assume that only a small number of soldiers are to be sent to do such a thing if they were to execute it secretly. However, the sheer number of them to appear now, even worse, a pillar or two to be doing such a measly, feeble, mission, had shocked me immensely.”
Michikatsu couldn’t help but agree to that. “Indeed,” his thoughts traveled to the pillar whom he had stumbled upon and the image of soldiers who stands next to her. “I cannot think of an idea what their true intentions could be. Nakime had given us the details yet it was too broad.”
“Then, what do you think this is?”
The prospect was far too dark and unseeable for Michikatsu to completely guess. “It would mean that the higher-ups were thinking too deeply about this.”
A whistle was heard behind them.
Michikatsu was quick to duck; having great control of his speed as he halted his running, and dodged the sword that swiped above them that was sure to behead him if he wasn’t aware.
He turned to see Rui attempting to apprehend another pillar with his deadly strings, but the swordsman was smoothly slicing the webs as if it wasn’t anything in particular. Michikatsu quickly draws his sword to assist Rui. He was sure that he could defeat this pillar for this man is alone and did not seem to bring anyone with him. With Rui’s magic and Michikatsu’s strength, they could overpower him with ease––
“Lord Kokushibo!” Rui called out. His fingers were moving at precise and accurate speed, fine control of his magic, but his eyes appeared as if he had witnessed a terrifying revelation. “You must run! Run!”
Michikatsu could’ve ignored the warnings in favor of killing this pillar yet something with the way Rui delivered his voice, trembling and full of terror, had him stop to listen. Rui was a man who asserted cautiousness and was a careful individual. He imposes a calm demeanor and never raised his voice unless necessary. He did not even bat an eye when they left their men behind.
However, Rui was unfocused. Barely able to fight against the pillar.
It was odd because Rui is skillful and could hold himself well. His magic prowess is beyond praise since he knows many techniques he could create himself.
“I could feel something–– no, someone… someone coming this way!”
Sweat trickled Michikatsu’s skin.
“I-Impossible… The aura this one is emitting…” Rui’s voice is shaking as he tries to fight off the pillar plowing against his strings, undeterred and not faltering, and Rui glances sideward to prove his point. “T-This magic…”
But Michikatsu understands what was happening and he did not spare a single second as he fled.
He left Rui and that pillar when he, too, felt this shuddering sensation… and an undesirable, unwelcomed, dreadful, and familiar miasma coursing through the area with an intense speed that almost left him trembling at the sheerness of it.
Michikatsu dropped from the tree, deciding to run into the ground for better cover.
Panic settled in an instant without mercy. Michikatsu pumped his legs with all his strength, using the adrenaline to exceed his limits even without magic.
Suddenly, it felt too hot. The unbearable heat permeated the air and his skin broke sweat.
‘It’s close. It’s close. It’s close.’
The heat seemed to take control over the surroundings. He knew it wasn’t the sun’s doing.
‘He’s close. He’s close. He’s close.’
Michikatsu felt like a child again.
It was like time had turned back and suddenly he was playing the game he did not love. A game he was forced to play. The forest portrayed those memories endlessly. The way his breathing seemed to be uncontrolled and the pain of his aching legs brought back a recollection he had desired to forget. Silence seemed to ring in his ears and he fought the urge to look back, just like what he always does before, to see if that presence is getting closer and closer.
He was crying now and his knees were wounded.
Blood trickled down his small legs even as he ran with what stamina he had left.
The unforgiving pace he had settled was not enough.
It’s the first time they’re playing this game, and he already hated it.
‘The rule is to hide. Not run.’
Michikatsu could hear that voice echoing behind him but he did not turn back. He couldn’t.
‘Look at you. Now your knees are hurt. What would mother and father would say?’
He held the handle of his sword tight.
‘Brother, can we stop playing now? I’m hurt.’
His young voice trembled. Even when tears clouded his vision and his knees throbbed painfully, he did not stop.
‘Absolutely not.’
Michikatsu cut down the bushes and boulders that blocked his way. His heart pounding and his breathing ragged.
‘I don’t want to play anymore.’
The silence was loud after he said that but it wasn’t long before his older brother responded.
‘No, we’re not done. Until I find you, then the game is over.’
Even as a child, he knew that this game isn’t hide and seek anymore.
Michikatsu felt as if he was prey being hunted down by a predator.
The flashbacks were relentless and were hurting his mind. The forest reminded him of his nightmares and the emergence of this feeling of inferiority was so brutal that he started to grit his teeth in anger and frustration.
At this point, running deep into the woods was so unwantedly nostalgic that it became a reminder of his weakness and failure of overcoming his fears.
To Michikatsu, the game reminded him of his inferiority. Because it was a show of power imbalance between himself versus the world. Even more so towards his brother. Everyone is gifted with powers and magic beyond comprehension, yet he did not receive such blessings.
All he could do was run from the impossibility, run from a strength he cannot attain for himself, and run from a powerful being intent on ruining his confidence over and over again.
‘Because you are weak, Michikatsu. You are left defenseless in a world full of danger and threats.’
Michikatsu could hear his brother’s voice resonating within his thoughts.
‘But don’t worry. I will protect you. My power is enough to shield you from this dangerous world we live in.’
And he did show it. His brother showed his power through this ridiculous game.
Every second of it made Michikatsu fume in rage when he realized that this isn’t just a game of hide and seek, but a display of power and superiority over him. It shatters his self-esteem and only powers his desire to be greater than anyone so that he wouldn’t feel small.
Regardless, it was a traumatic experience for a child who wanted nothing but to stop this. He never wanted to look at his brother in fear, but it is as if his brother was not aware that it only cause a rift between them.
Yoriichi was terrifying… and still is.
Suddenly, this overwhelming heat wrapped around his figure, and that was all the sign he received before swiftly turning around, leaving him skidding on the ground from the intense running, the friction holding his posture, and raising his sword to block the impending attack on him.
CLANG!
Their swords met with ferocity, and Michikatsu found himself eye to eye with the man he loathed deep in the recess of his heart.
Michikatsu gathered enough speed on his arms as he parried his enemy’s sword away and then attempted to deliver an attack in a matter of seconds to catch him off guard. But his enemy was swift as well as he quickly dodged the attack and parried another attack aimed at his head before quickly backing away without breaking eye contact.
Michikatsu was grateful for the reprieve yet his body was packed with tension.
His hand was shaking, leaving the sword waving slightly before him as he assumed a fighting stance. Though he can’t say the same to the man before him.
Yoriichi Tsugikuni, after sharing a short strike, nonchalantly lowered his sword, merely gripping it on his side. He stands there, posing as a mighty and majestic self. There was no hatred in his eyes, no intent, but he looked mournful and unassuming.
The silence was unbearable. The two did nothing but stare at each other.
Yoriichi surely had grown into a strong man the last time Michikatsu saw him. And the magic…
It was almost unbelievable.
The magic swirling around the man was impressive and overwhelming even though it cannot be seen. Rather, everyone could only feel the aura Yoriichi permeated which is enough to show that he, out of everyone else, is the most powerful being in the country.
And over the years, Yoriichi had grown stronger than before. That he can tell. The control of his magic is surely not a laughing matter. Michikatsu could feel that the miasma he had emitted was far larger and more overwhelming than in the past. And more different…
It felt like hours had passed and eventually, the silence was broken like a still water disturbed by a droplet.
“You’ve grown taller, Michikatsu.”
The mentioned man did not say anything.
“I’ve heard that younger siblings tend to grow taller than the eldest.” Yoriichi provided, speaking as if they haven’t separated for many years. It grated Michikatsu’s nerves just how calm his brother is over this unexpected reunion. “Kyojuro Rengoku has told me about that a long time ago and it appears he is right…”
‘Enough!’
“Stop babbling over nonsense things.” Michikatsu snapped. “It is unbecoming of a king.”
Yoriichi looked at him with those unflinching eyes, unperturbed. “My apologies. I only wished to reunite with my brother in a better circumstance. I hope to at least brighten this… agonizing tension looming over us.”
The fact that Yoriichi is acknowledging the intensity between them showed that he is aware that they are not on good terms even with the way he spoke as if they were friends. ‘At least he still bears what little sanity he had left over that brain of his.’ Michikatsu mused.
“You do not need to,” Michikatsu uttered, unwavering of his stance as his body screamed that pure danger is just right in front of him. “It is a reminder of what has become of our relationship.”
Yoriichi had the audacity to look solemn. “It is unpleasant. We are brothers and yet––”
“Yet none!” The younger one snarled, his face covered with unbridled anger which he did not attempt to hide. “I will not allow myself to fall over your feeble lies and excuses! Your serpent tongue has no charm over me! I know who you are… Who you truly are!”
Under the bright sun and the shadow of the tall trees looming over the two figures, it was not enough to hide the dark gleam on the eldest brother’s cunning eyes as he stared at his younger brother with feigned innocence.
“Who I truly am, you say?” Yoriichi wore an expression of indifference, appearing as if he is unconcerned about the inner turmoil the other was currently experiencing. “But I am the King. I am the ruler of a great kingdom. I am the leader of these soldiers, and I shall someday bring peace to the country and put an end to this war. What could you possibly think I am other than that?”
Michikatsu felt like he was burning. The anger was palpable. It swirled around them both to the point that every vein in his body throbbed like he is prepared to lash out and lose all control. The temptation of swinging his sword, aiming at his brother’s neck, had almost reached its peak. There was an urge to spew any violent words from his mouth yet Michikatsu had controlled himself.
“I see a tyrant.” Michikatsu dared to say. “I see a person–– no, a being who desires to display an immense great power to control over one life. You loved to control my life the way you deem fit! I was the victim of your wishes! I cannot make any decisions, cannot make a say, cannot control a situation, cannot be an independent person when you are there with me!”
“A tyrant?” Yoriichi blinked in surprise. He is slightly baffled at the insult thrown at him carelessly as if he did not expect to receive such a description of his character. “How blind can you be to call me such a thing? I did not dictate your life, Michikatsu. I was simply doing my duty as your brother. My actions are justified when I only wish for you to be safe and protected at all cost––”
“By imprisoning me in a room void of people? Of everything?” Michikatsu countered. His heart felt heavy at the memory of this traumatic experience he had dealt with as a child. “You brought me into that dungeon, forced me to play a game to flaunt your power over me, restricted my movements and took down the decisions I made, silenced me, and imprisoned me again when I hurt myself even though they were done by accident, and then had me hunted down by your men yet ordered them not to kill me! You are indeed my brother but one who denied my happiness and freedom!”
Yoriichi shook his head in disappointment. A look of resignation plastered on his face. “Everything I did and every decision I made is all for you…” He frowned, now wearing a hurtful expression that made Michikatsu feel disbelief at the sight. “Don’t you see, brother? You have no magic. You are an empty shell. Delicate and prone to danger. Mentioning the fact that you are a prince. An easy target for people to snatch away–– To take you away from me.”
“Oh, because I am weak?” Michikatsu’s voice trembled slightly as he released a huff of feigned amusement. “Delicate, you say? Ha! That’s funny. I seem to be doing well without you. Look at me!” He gestured over himself. “I am alive. Alive and healthy and strong! I am the opposite of what you wished me to be! I do not need magic to keep me safe. I do not need anything, even yourself, to protect me!”
“Lies,” Yoriichi’s tone dipped lower. “You are standing because I allowed you to be. I had ordered my men not to kill you and that is why you lived. Even death can never take you from me.”
But Michikatsu is tired now. Utterly exhausted from this verbal battle which no one seemed to be winning.
So, if he can’t win by using the power of his voice, perhaps it is done physically…
“Is that so?” Michikatsu aligned the blade carefully. It swirled with carefulness as if Michikatsu was deliberately showing his intention of what he was about to do. “Let’s prove that, shall we?”
A flare of panic entered Yoriichi’s face and he dashed forward–– just in time to grab Michikatsu’s palms and pulled.
The blade was focused to strike Michikatsu’s stomach. He dared to look up and immediately, he was delighted to see the fear and apprehension in Yoriichi’s maroon eyes as they both wrestled.
Michikatsu grunted, trying to pull the blade on himself to no avail. His brother’s strength is nothing to laugh about. “F-For a King who ordered your men to hurt me, y-you seemed to hate it when I’m the one who initiates t-that on m-myself!”
The two wrestled. Yoriichi tried to take the sword away but Michikatsu was persistent. “Michikatsu, do not do this! Killing y-yourself is not worth it!”
“Why? This is clearly your f-fault for getting me into this situation.” Oh, Michikatsu was having fun for quite a while. Even if it gets him killed in the end, at least he is blessed to see the anguish and suffering Yoriichi is facing.
The dire situation was amusing for Michikatsu, however, Yoriichi was having none of it.
“No!” Yoriichi was openly shouting now. “You will not take yourself away! You will not leave me!”
While in a vulnerable position, Michikatsu took this chance to deliver a blow on his brother’s legs. He kicked them as hard as he can, and Yoriichi stumbled, surprised at the suddenness, and quickly tried to recover.
‘Now!’
Power sang within Michikatsu’s veins, and he put every ounce of his strength to finish this once and for all. He turned the tides with unimaginable twists of events. However, when Yoriichi looked up again, he saw Michikatsu’s blade now directly swinging at him–– aiming at Yoriichi’s head.
It was there Yoriichi realized far too late of Michikatsu’s intention.
When Michikatsu thought he could finally kill his brother in this short moment of surprise, suddenly, a thinner blade blocked his own.
The opportunity was missed.
Michikatsu’s eyes widened and immediately started to back away, taking longer steps to analyze the fast-paced and intense situation.
“Your Majesty!”
The newcomer knelt next to the King to help him stand back up.
“Damn!” Michikatsu muttered, fury building up inside him once more. ‘This bitch is here.’
The insect pillar composed herself when she made sure that Yoriichi had recovered from his stumble, then without hesitation, began to charge herself to Michikatsu. She thrust the tip with immense speed to at least injure the man.
However, Michikatsu is done playing games and snapped the pillar’s blade with finesse by swinging his blade vertically.
The insect pillar’s eyes were blown wide, shocked at the sheer strength. She was too late to protect herself as she yet again received a powerful kick to her solar plexus. The pillar couldn’t control the bile coming out of her mouth as she was sent flying away.
Michikatsu quickly took a smoke bomb hidden underneath his belt and threw it to the ground.
The noise of the bomb and Yoriichi’s shout were timely synchronized. “No!” Then a cloud of dark smoke washed the area in an instant.
“Kocho! He must not get away!”
“Yes, Your Majesty!”
Michikatsu had already sprinted far from this dreaded place, heading to the other side to throw them off guard. Just as he thought he had run a good few meters, suddenly, he heard a familiar song of magic swirling about.
Immediately, terror filled him without mercy.
The magic surrounding him felt oppressive. It loomed throughout the forest; large and ominous. The spread of magic was wide. An intimidating display of power. It was a longer-range technique. And it screamed danger. Michikatsu does not know what his brother is planning but he could feel that it is big. His instincts screamed for him to get away, get away, get away! Even though he has no magic, he could feel this tangible power spreading everywhere in the area.
It confused him but also he is aware of this heavy feeling. It’s coming… and he’s too late to escape.
And before Michikatsu could even blink, suddenly, a wall of flames entered his vision. He yelped in surprise and terror, skidding to a stop.
The flames grew bigger and bigger without warning, and in just a span of a few seconds, the thick and large trees were engulfed in flames. The unbearable heat surrounded his figure, clouding his senses. The roar of the fire, the sweat that trickled down his skin, the smell of burning wood and grass, and the sight of all life turning to ash. All of it is burning. Once proud, majestic, and living, the trees are now melting slowly from the scorching fire.
Yet it surrounded Michikatsu menacingly. It closed in on him, a sign that he has nowhere to go.
He stood there in complete shock. It was just so quick that he didn’t have time to react.
One moment he was running with life surrounding him; birds chirping, the rustle and sway of the trees… And then fire. Fire… It’s burning.
“What did I say about running?”
Michikatsu felt his heart drop when he heard a voice behind him. His hands began to shake as he tried to stop himself from inhaling the thick smoke but his heaving lungs could not control itself. Perhaps it was out of fear as he is suddenly afraid to turn around and look his brother in the eye.
Perhaps it’s defeat that he couldn’t face Yoriichi properly.
Not when the wall of flames flickered unforgivingly. Not when everything is alight and continuously burning.
“What could you do even as you run?”
There was no point in it all anyway.
“Haven’t you learned this lesson before?”
No, it appears he hasn’t.
“No matter how much you desire to run, the results are always fruitless, Michikatsu.”
The footsteps come closer.
Even though the heat is overwhelming, Michikatsu broke a cold sweat at the presence behind him. The possessive miasma wrapped around his figure. It felt like invisible chains locking him into place when a warm hand pressed on his shoulder.
Michikatsu released a shaky breath.
“But then again, hiding isn’t the solution either.”
He felt fingers pressed on his neck. Tight but suffocating.
“Welcome home, dear brother.”
There was a snap. And suddenly, Michikatsu’s vision turned dark.
The last thing he saw was the face of a king… smiling down at him.
~~~
“I found you, Michikatsu!”
The smaller boy was trapped in a circle of burning grass.
Yoriichi had just learned how to use his magic for long-range purposes. He decided to practice this skill by lighting the tall grass on fire underneath Michikatsu’s form.
Michikatsu was stuck. The ring of fire serves as a cage. He isn’t tall enough to jump over those burning grass. The fire would hurt him!
“Brother, let me go! I hate this heat! Please, stop the fire!”
But Yoriichi was only smiling at him. He was extremely happy to have captured Michikatsu this way.
“Why? It is safe! With these flames, no one can get you.”
“But it’s hurting me, too!”
“Ah… I guess it is telling you not to leave.” Yoriichi watches with observant eyes. He looked gleeful even as he notices his younger brother’s tears. “Poor, brother mine. Don’t worry, as long as you’re there, you are… protected…”
While Michikatsu coughed and coughed from the smoke filling his underdeveloped lungs, black spots entered his vision. The last thing he saw was his brother’s smiling face and the fire reflecting in those empty maroon eyes.