Chapter Text
Everyone knew you didn't go up the staircase without permission or a good reason. It wasn't usually a problem, but every now and then, the sage would shut herself away for a few days, and the citadel felt a bit more empty for it.
The point being, Horikawa had permission, in the form of a report on the last 2nd Division expedition. Murakumo Gou did not.
“Murakumo-san, what are you doing over here? You're blocking the stairs,” he commented.
“Waiting for Aruji,” he responded, not even lifting his chin from his crossed arms. The dog-featured blade wore an expression of loss and tragedy. “It's been too long and I miss her.”
Horikawa sighed. This wasn't even one of those times. He had run into the sage earlier, while he was preparing for the expedition and she was about to head into town— wait. She wasn't even here. But the wakizashi didn't have the heart to say it, not when Murakumo looked so sad waiting there.
So instead of telling him anything, he held out the expedition report. “Then, as long as you're here, will you make sure she gets these papers?” A kind and innocent smile sealed the offer.
Murakumo accepted the paperwork with a nod. “I'll protect it with my life, whatever that's worth.”
Gently, the shorter sword ruffled his pink hair. They'd have to work on the confidence issues, but nothing to be done right now. “Thanks! I owe you one.” With that, he left the stairwell.
Murakumo Gou sat waiting for a master that wasn't even up there.