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Chapter Text

“I won’t forgive you,” Those were the words that escaped Tomo's lips as Kazuha held his dying friend’s body. He didn’t know who those words were for, but Kazuha ran away.

He ran like a coward. Now he was a wanted criminal, seeking refuge in the Resistance Army. His other dear friend, the sister of the merchant, was waiting for two to arrive. But all she saw was a haggard samurai grasping onto a gray Vision shell. The tears in his eyes spoke a thousand explanations.

(Y/N) deserved to know the truth, so he approached her, numbed from the cold.

“Would you forgive me?” Kazuha’s voice broke, the rain poured harder than ever. “He could’ve lived if I had just arrived there in time.” He couldn’t meet her eyes.

She was still and silent.

He stared at what was left of her brother. Curse him for this challenge. Curse himself for being so slow.

“You need to get away from me.” Kazuha clutched the dead vision in his hands. “Because of me, your life will be in danger as well.”

It was all his fault. He took away what was most dear to her.

“I can’t forgive myself.” The samurai continued, his voice now diminished to a hoarse whisper. “And I don’t want you to forgive me either.”

He didn’t want to hear her. He just wanted to run, far, far away. He couldn’t bear this torture any longer.

“I won’t,” Her trembling voice was still clear despite the howling wind.

Kazuha’s chest felt tight. Why did he feel even more down even though he asked her not to?

“Is that what I have to say?”

Her voice wavered. “Forgive or not to forgive? Are those the only choices I have left now?”

Behind the girl and samurai, the Resistance General was watching afar their quarrel. Gorou didn’t know if he should intervene. Both of them just lost a friend too dear to them. The enemy was snaking closer, so Gorou hoped his men could fend them off. But he knew his place and turned away from Kazuha and (Y/N).

“My brother…” She shook her head. “I don’t think he would really tell you that. He will never hold a grudge, he would want you to continue on and live like the wind.”

“I can’t believe that, but… if he truly did say that then I...” Her hands were shaking as she clenched her fists. “I have to go against my brother.”

Kazuha was taken aback by her words. What did that mean? She loved her brother dearly. He was the most important person to her. How could she say that after he just lost his life?

She finally looked at the boy right in front of her, right at his anxious crimson eyes. “Kazuha, isn’t there any way you can accept that I love you, no matter what?”

He was frozen from her words.

(Y/N) shook her head, tears spilling from her eyes. “It isn’t anyone’s fault. It was my brother’s decision to challenge the Raiden Shogun, and that was the outcome of the battle.”

She clutched her heart. “It hurts, it hurts so much, I can’t believe he’s gone.” But she took a step forward. “I don’t want to get away from you, I don’t want you to be alone, and I don’t want you to leave me. Don’t you understand I can never hate you!”

As soon as she got closer to him, he staggered back. These were not the words he thought he would ever hear. No, these were the words he did not want to hear. Especially from her.

His mind was blank. His head was spinning. A single phrase fell out of his mouth.

“I’m disappointed in you.”

The flurry of emotions in the (e/c)’s eyes was gone. Her eyes turned hollow and gray. Just like her brother’s vision.

This was too much. He couldn’t handle it. So he did what he always knew.

He turned and ran away. He ran wherever the wind blew. He didn’t know where, he just had to get out of here.

Chapter Text

“Kazuha!” He could hear Gorou’s shout of dismay. But he didn’t look back as a horn pierced through the stormy night, signaling the enemy had broken through.

The Resistance Army General jumped down from the sentry tower. He snagged a cloak from a nearby tent and ran to the girl drenched in rain. “(Y/N)-san, are you hurt?”

She was still looking at the rain-soaked dirt, eyes wide, mouth slightly open from shock. Gorou patted her head to calm her down...

“The Shogun’s Army broke the front lines. Prepare for an ambush!” The soldiers yelled.

That wasn’t enough to get the girl to snap out of her trance.

Gorou cursed, not knowing what to do. “(Y/N)-san, get inside. I’ll go after him.”

She still couldn’t move.

“(Y/N), please listen to me.” Gorou pleaded, tugging on her arm.

Her (h/c) bangs covered her face. “I’m sorry I shouldn’t have said that,” She whispered. “I’m so sorry, please come back. I wasn’t thinking before I spoke up.”

Gorou placed his hands on her shoulders. “(Y/N) you have to go inside. The Raiden Shogun is looking for him.”

The troops began to encircle their camp. “Give us the ronin, we’ll let you off for a few days.” They shouted.

The general readied his bow and drew it, shooting at the ensnaring enemies. He growled. “The Resistance never betrays its own.”

He didn’t want to admit defeat and expose where Kazuha ran off to, but he was outnumbered.

Kokomi was still in Sangonomiya. None of her plans suspected such an attack going after Kazuha. With (Y/N) out here vulnerable, he wasn’t sure if he could fend off everyone.

“Gorou-san,” (Y/N) murmured and summoned her polearm. “Please step aside.”

The chilling tone in her voice was enough to make him shudder. He didn’t know if he had to comply. She just lost her friend. Her brother. Now she was left alone. She still was so quiet.

Before he could protest, she continued. “I’m so sorry, that was selfish of me to say.” She shook her head as she was talking to herself. “I can’t forgive you if it was never your fault, to begin with.”

A stray enemy arrow grazed her cheek. She didn’t bother wiping the scratch.

“(Y/N)!” The general moved forward to parry another arrow but she raised her hand and shook her head.

“Tomo, did you experience the glory you have long wished for?” She looked up at the sky, imagining her brother was listening to her intently. “If you did, I cannot be mad at you.”

Her opponents didn’t bother lunging at her. Instead, they continued their ranged attacks, stifling their laughter on the haggard girl.

“Did you really say that to Kazuha? Those are cruel last words.” She laughed weakly. “But I know you didn’t mean it the way he thinks it means.”

Another arrow nearly impaled her arm. Blood bloomed on the hydrangea flowers on her kimono. (Y/N) winced slightly. She needed to fight. She needed to vent. She needs to let it all out.

“Tomo, don’t be mad at Kazuha. Be mad at me.” She spun around. Her (e/c) eyes are as hollow as the storm clouds. She raised her head and swung her polearm to block the arrow aimed right at her. She pushed Gorou away with all her might.

In fury, (Y/N) released a thin thread of water towards the men surrounding her. “Because even though you don’t want to, your dear little sister just wants some blood to be spilled.”

Just as quick as the falling rain, the men were sliced in half. Their bodies falling apart all around her.

She couldn’t hear their groans. She didn’t care. Screw the Shogun. Screw eternity.

A bloodied hand grabbed her ankle. (Y/N) turned to see a soldier. She simply impaled his head, blood splattered all around her light purple kimono. “Take a life, it doesn’t add on to yours. Is this the concept of eternity you are long chasing?”

The (h/c) haired girl had no more tears falling down her (e/c) eyes. Was it still raining water? Or was it now raining blood? She didn’t know, everything just felt numb.

“(Y/N), are you alright?” Gorou came scampering back as they managed to get the Shogun’s Army to retreat. He ran to the bloody girl, shocked by her appearance.

Her hands were once something that created something beautiful. From lifeless threads, she was known as the magical seamstress of Inazuma City. Unbeknownst to Gorou, he didn’t know she was capable of taking the most precious thing away from someone: their life.

She didn’t answer him immediately. But finally, she said, “I want to be left alone now, please.”

The enemy was shouting that they had found Kazuha running south. Before Gorou could chase after them, (Y/N) tugged on his sleeve. “Don’t.”

“But Kazuha-”

“He’ll be fine, just believe in him.” She whispered. “Let him go, he wants to get away from here just like the restrained wind of this drowning city, so let him be.”

Gorou shook his head and pulled her hand away from him. “But what about you?”

She didn’t answer him immediately again. Five seconds passed then she replied, “It’s my fault. I aggravated the situation by not paying heed to what I was saying.”

(Y/N) turned around. “I shall ask for aid from the Shirasagi Himegimi. My brother still needs a proper burial.”

“But--”

“Gorou-san,” She smiled weakly. “Your army needs their general. It is your duty to check on their wellbeing after such an ambush.”

He gritted his teeth but she was right, partially, since all she was doing was seeking refuge under the Resistance. He couldn’t agree to everything she said, but she was still in mourning. So he thought it was best to give her some space.

Though it was a long trip from the camp to the front lines, he could still hear her screams and cries from the distance.

Gorou hoped that Kazuha would return.

But all of this happened a year ago.

Chapter Text

After the battle against Kujou Sara, the Traveler was greeted by the lively Captain of the Crux Fleet, Beidou. “Didn’t expect to see you soon,” She remarked. “Especially here in Tatarasuna.”

Aether raised his hand in reply. “I didn’t either,” He turned to greet the wandering samurai along with her. “Hi, Kazuha,”

The anemo-wielder didn’t answer him. His eyes were fixated along the sea, a tinge of melancholy was seen in his crimson hues. Beidou nudged Kazuha and he instantly snapped out of his trance. “Ah, I am glad that we meet again, Traveler.” He nodded slowly, though his eyes drifted back at the steady waters.

Beidou sighed and pulled Aether away from the man. “He’s been like this ever since we landed back in Inazuma. Probably there’s someone he wants to see.”

“He told us the story about his friend who went against the Raiden Shogun,” Paimon interjected. “He might be feeling sad after running away.”

The pirate shrugged. “I’ve only known him for nearly a year, Kazuha has never acted that way talking about his merchant friend.” The three walked along the shoreline, away from the soldiers tending to the wounded.

As soon as they were away from prying eyes, Beidou pulled out a small plain box, but inside it was a beautiful hairpin.

Paimon’s eyes immediately sparkled at the craft. “Wow, Beidou, that’s really pretty!” The tiny creature zipped around, inspecting the floral hairpiece when she immediately frowned. “There’s something missing in the center of the hydrangea.”

Hydrangeas. Aether heard from Kazuha that these flowers were native to Inazuma. However, this particular design seemed different from the usual plants he saw.

The two-pronged accessory had a cluster of flowers of blue, purple, and pink. Dangling chains of silk petals were attached to the end.

The blonde traveler grimaced and turned to Paimon. “This isn’t Beidou’s. It doesn’t fit her style.”

Beidou feigned hurt. “Why thank you for noticing, but yes, this isn’t mine. It was supposed to be the first runner-up’s prize for the Clash.” She gingerly studied the intricate design of the pin. “Kazuha seemed so desperate to get rid of it, yet it still came back to him.”

Judging by the missing detail on the bouquet’s center, he deduced something. “Do you think… this was a holder for a vision?”

Paimon put a hand on her chin. “Could be, though wasn’t Kazuha’s friend a boy?”

“No, there was obviously someone else.” Beidou carefully returned the accessory. “There was one time I joked if he had a girl waiting for him. He looked uneasy for a while but quickly told me no.” She motioned to the box. “The way he gave me this box to be put on display for the Clash felt off. It felt like he didn’t want to give it away.

“However,” She mused and continued. “After finding out the runner-up refused to receive any sort of prize, he brought it here to lose it. He told me to give it to anyone because he thought it would be for the best because it likes to travel around.”

Paimon frowned. “Well, that’s cryptic.”

“Can I have this?” The two were stunned by the sudden words from the Traveler.

“Why not?” Beidou tossed the box to Aether. “You gonna give it to someone?”

“Something like that,” Aether murmured, carefully unboxing the pin.

A crewmate came running towards the group. The captain left Aether and Paimon admiring the floral headpiece.

“Paimon likes it but it doesn’t suit her. Are you going to sell it for mora?” The fairy’s eyes gleamed at the idea.

The boy shook his head, still looking at it.

“Paimon thinks it’s for your sister?” She asked.

He laughed but shook his head again. “As much as I would like to, my sister does not like receiving gifts. Besides,” He sadly shut the lid close. “I don’t think I’ll be seeing her any time soon.”

“Then what will you do with it?”

Aether began walking in the direction of the camp. “I’d like to return it to who it was meant for.”

Paimon gasped. “But wouldn’t they be-”

“No,” He cut her off. “I don’t think the owner’s gone. Judging by the looks of this, I don’t think she lost her Vision either.

“This was perhaps a gift, Kazuha never gave it.”

Chapter Text

Aether and Paimon managed to take shelter before the rain began pouring again. The aura around the camp was merry as compared to when they first came here. The blonde traveler tried looking for the traveling samurai to no avail.

“Where’s Kazuha?” Paimon whined. “Did he go off wandering again?”

“You’re looking for Kazuha?” The two spun around to see the General, Gorou, packing up a box of weapons.

“Hey, Gorou!” Paimon waved and they approached the man.

He puts down the crates. “He’s going around Inazuma, maybe he’s in Watatsumi, maybe in the City, who knows?.”

Both of them gasped. “Isn’t Kazuha a wanted man?” The fairy frantically waved her hands around. “Quick, Traveler, we must help him!”

Gorou laughed at their reaction. “No need, I’m sure he’ll be fine on his own. Ever since he became a fugitive, there were times he would sneak off from the camp to go walking on its streets.”

“Of course, he doesn’t stay there for long. Maybe he stays for a minute or so somewhere, then he immediately leaves.” The General added. “He really is like the wind.”

Paimon’s eyes lit up. “Oh yeah, by the way, Gorou, do you have an idea of who owns this hairpin?”

Gorou’s brow creased. “A kanzashi? Where have you gotten possession of this?”

Aether quickly thought of an excuse. “We happened to stumble upon it in our adventures.”

“Hm,” Gorou was deep in thought. “This looks familiar.” Aether handed it over to him. “I could have sworn I’ve seen Kazuha toying with something like this a few years ago.”

“But wasn’t it…” Gorou’s voice faltered and he shook his head. “I may know who this is for. However, it’s not my place to speak of it. Perhaps you could look for Kazuha.”

Paimon started smiling nervously as she agreed. “Come on, Traveler. Let’s first check out the City.”

As soon as Gorou was out of their sight, the fairy whispered to the traveler, “Seems like we’re in a dead-end if we can’t find Kazuha!”

The traveler paused. They could easily sneak around with the help of Ayaka. He remembered her hairpiece. Perhaps she could lend them something to conceal their faces. Maybe she might be able to identify the owner of the hairpin as well.

So the two set off to find the Shirasagi Himegimi; the eldest daughter of the Kamisato Clan.

~~~

Ayaka was relieved to see the Traveler and his companion safe and sound. “Traveler, how are you?”

After their exchange of greetings, they asked if they found the Anemo samurai.

“You were looking for Kazuha?” Ayaka queried, surprised. “You just missed him. He left a few hours ago. I believe he’s headed for Watatsumi Island now.”

Paimon groaned. “Ugh, and just as Paimon thought, solving the mystery of this kanzashi would be easy.”

The girl’s ears caught on. “Did that hairpin happen to come from Kazuha?”

Aether nodded and showed the box. “It seemed like he wanted to get rid of it.”

She gingerly picked it up. “This is handcrafted.” She turned it around to study it. “I haven’t seen a hydrangea design in ages.”

“In ages?” The blonde repeated. “Aren’t there many of these flowers in the City?”

“Yes,” She nodded. “However, this specific design and technique within the embellishments—I haven’t seen it in a long while.”

“Based on how the flowers are arranged, this would be a Vision Holder,” Aether suggested, to which Ayaka agreed.

She took a closer look at the hydrangea. “I thought it was made by her, but the craftsmanship looks quite amateur.”

“Who’s her?” Paimon quickly asked, hoping to get the answer.

Ayaka shook her head. “I do not know her quite well. But I believe Kazuha has mentioned a dear friend who lost to a duel in Tenshukaku?”

The duo nodded.

The daughter of the Yashiro Commission continued. “I don’t think he did tell you about that friend’s sister?”

Paimon gasped. “Sister?”

Ayaka smiled sadly. “(Y/N) was a seamstress under Ogura Mio. She had the most remarkable and ingenious designs I have ever seen.”

She slowly returned the kanzashi back to the box. “She used to wear kimonos adorned with hydrangea patterns.

“But the last time I saw her was last year; when she asked for help to give her brother a proper burial. All her clothing was plain white.”

“I see,” Aether said, feeling despair for people he didn’t even know. Losing someone so close to you, especially your sibling, might change who you are. The moment he saw Lumine, it was like he didn’t even know her.

“I don’t think you should push your luck to find Ogura Mio,” Ayaka commented and tapped her fan on her chin. “But I would like to bet that you might see certain memories on Tomo’s grave. Thoma did mention you heard the ambitions of those who lost their Visions. Perhaps something similar might happen due to the grief embedded within the tomb.”

“It’s worth a shot,” Paimon replied and pulled Aether along. The two walked north to the broken bridge near the estate.

There, they found the lone grave of Tomo.

Chapter Text

Aether found the grave under a broken bridge. Electro-crystal flies slowly flew around until they sensed the presence of the Traveler and his companion. Neither of them spoke to pay their respects to the single sword stuck on the dirt.

So he did what Ayaka recommended him to. He touched the hilt.

~~~

“Brother, where are we going?” A young girl in a white yukata of hydrangea patterns begrudgingly trudged uphill to follow Tomo. “I said we were just going to take a quick walk for some inspiration, not some arduous adventure.”

He let out a hearty laugh. “(Y/N), didn’t I tell you your work has been looking very monotonous and boring lately?”

Her (e/c) eyes widened. “You actually meant that? But Ogura-san said--”

“Yeah, yeah, I know,” He stopped to pat her (h/c) hair. “But why not look for something in new heights? Or a new angle?” Tomo moved to the side to reveal the fading sunset in Tsurumi Island.

However, his soft expression soon hardened to steel as he drew out his sword. “Who’s there?”

Snickers surrounded the siblings as Nobushi and Kairagi came out of their hiding places. “Well, look what we have here.”

Tomo protectively raised his haori sleeve to cover his sister’s eyes. “Get out of here,” He ordered. Because the teen had no vision, she could only run away.

The ash-blonde merchant gritted his teeth in annoyance. This was too much for him to handle, despite wielding an Electro Vision himself, he wasn’t sure if he could make it out without a scratch.

So he fought with all his might. He swung his sword, parried, then struck again.

“Fool!” One of the enemies bellowed.

A stray spark of fire and electricity shot him backward. He gasped and doubled over as he came crashing from a tree.

Before he met his demise, he heard a scream. “Tomo!”

“Kazuha-san!” His sister yelled from a distance. “Please help my brother!”

In a flurry of green and autumn leaves, a young man adorned in red and white samurai clothing blocked the blade.

It was a young samurai. A notable red streak of hair stood out from the tufts of white. His vermillion eyes glinted quite mischievously.

~~~

Aether gasped as he opened his eyes. What was that? Did he see the memories of the merchant?

Paimon gripped his arm, a worried expression on her face. “What’s wrong? You look like you’ve seen a ghost!”

He smiled weakly and wiped his forehead, drenched in sweat. “Quite literally. I saw the past, more specifically, the first time Kazuha met Tomo.”

But he put his finger to his chin to think. “But from what I saw, I don’t think it was the first time Kazuha met (Y/N).”

“Is that so?” Paimon asked and brought out the kanzashi box. “Do you think this was for her?”

The blonde traveler recalled the blooming purple and blue flowers woven carefully onto the girl’s kimono. “Yes, that was her.”

“Did you see anything useful for our mission?”

Aether sighed and shook his head. “I’ll try again.”

~~~

When Aether opened his eyes, he couldn’t move. He was in the same place as the grave but he couldn’t move a single inch from his body. The boy looked down to see he was standing in the same place the sword was left.

“Hey, brother,” His eyes drifted upwards to see (Y/N) dressed in black, red spider lilies on her hands. He couldn’t see her face, but her voice was intertwined with weariness. “Did you witness what you have waited for so long?”

She took a cup of sake from her side and played with the rim. “What was the ambition you fought so hard to keep?”

(Y/N) took a sip and gagged. “I don’t understand how you like drinking this booze.” She laid the cup to rest by the foot of the grave.

“Did I ever tell you why I wanted a Vision?” Aether saw the (h/c) girl pull out a shell that glowed an exquisite shade of dark blue.

“I wanted to be able to protect you. I didn’t want to rely on you any longer.” (Y/N) gripped the stone harder as her voice wavered. “I wanted to be able to protect and help Kazuha too.”

“Screw the Raiden Shogun!” She screamed and threw the Vision towards the cave walls. Alas, it never shattered. It bounced off and still continued to bubble with power.

“I already lost my ambition, why the hell do I still have this Vision?” The girl crumpled and sobbed. She hugged her legs tighter and continued to cry.

“I messed up, I accidentally confessed to Kazuha at the worst time ever.” (Y/N) finally looked at the grave.

Aether could see the pain in her (e/c) eyes. It was a void of nothingness.

“He ran away as I tormented him even more.” She smiled bitterly and took another swig of the wine. “The Resistance reported that he managed to escape to see, hopefully, a sailor saves him.”

(Y/N) blinked the tears away as she finished the drink. “What am I going to do now? I massacred a troop of soldiers, and my hands refuse to embroider and sew anymore.”

She looked at her fingers. “As I said, what ambition is there for me to live for anyway?”

A battle horn pierced through again. (Y/N) was suddenly alert, the aura in her (e/c) eyes changed. It was as if she had an idea.

(Y/N) stood up and took the Vision from the ground. She dug a hole beside the grave of her brother. Then she wrapped a white cloth around the Hydro Vision and dropped it in the hole. “My hopes and wishes have already died along with you, brother. There is no need for me to use this.”

She looked up and met Aether’s eyes. Her eyes were not full of hatred and contempt, but emptiness. (Y/N) seemed like a hollow doll.

“I will fight my own way. I’ll go to Sangonomiya-san in Watatsumi and serve the Resistance.” The girl turned around and walked. “I know you don’t want me to kill, but there’s no turning back. No one’s dreams should be shattered any longer.”

~~~

When Aether snapped back to reality, tears welled in his eyes. Perhaps this was the emotion of her dead brother watching his sister fall into pieces. He couldn’t imagine if this was Lumine.

Aether wiped his tears and stooped down. He sensed pulsing Hydro energy beneath the earth. His hands uncovered a Vision caked in mud. He quickly wiped it to see it was still glowing blue with life.

“That’s-” Paimon was interrupted by the abrupt actions of the blonde male. He took the box from her hands and removed the hydrangea hairpin.

Carefully, he tried to fasten the Vision in the centerpiece of the kanzashi.

It was a perfect fit.

Aether returned it to the box and continued to walk. “We’ll begin our search in Watatsumi. Kokomi will definitely know of her whereabouts.”

Chapter Text

He was back in Inazuma. He returned a year later.

Kazuha clasped his hands in prayer as he knelt on the ground, Tomo’s sword stuck on the earth.

He smiled weakly as he recalled the last words his friend spoke to him:

“I’ll never forgive you.”

What did that even mean? Was that his expression of anger towards Kazuha because he couldn’t live?

Those words haunted Kazuha every day and night as he was escaping Inazuma. He tried to suppress the memory but that always left him to tears.

While running away from the Shogun’s army, he ended up falling to the waves. He nearly succumbed to his woes and pain.

But he could’ve sworn he saw a purple crackle of light in the water.

When he opened his eyes and swam to the surface, the light was gone. Maybe it was his mind playing tricks on him, but that gave him hope.

Perhaps him wanting to reignite the dead Vision was a way to cope with the guilt. Maybe if it glowed again, it was as if Tomo never left in the first place. If Tomo’s Vision was alive, perhaps this evoked a sense that he was truly alive, and he would’ve never spoken those words to Kazuha.

Now he was back in Inazuma, still unsuccessful from all his wishful thinking.

~~~
Four Years Ago

The day was just as sunny as the previous one. She was doing her usual work as an apprentice seamstress. Tomo was busy poking fun and messing around with her creations as Shiro, his cat was busy purring. Kazuha was busy lazing around up on the Yumemiru tree, wearing his usual plain gray kimono.

The day was just as perfect as the day before.

“Kazuha,” He immediately shot up and looked down from the tree branch to look at her. “Come back with me to the City. I have something to give you.”

The samurai’s brow furrowed, wondering what it would be as he hid his hands in his plain red haori.

The ash brown-haired merchant laughed and patted his cat. “Hm, I wonder what that would be.” He teased, which earned a near jab from her sewing needle.

Silence draped around them like the looming fog. The land was getting unstable by the minute. Perhaps it was because the people have abandoned the place and never tended to the springs.

“Guys,” Tomo’s voice was suddenly solemn. The two of them were suddenly alarmed, not used to this tone from their always joking friend. “The people of Inazuma City are suddenly gossiping about Musou no Hitotachi.” He stared out to the blue waters before them to watch the twinkling glow of the Capital. “What’s so special about it?”

“It can only be witnessed when ‘divine punishment’ is administered, it is the pinnacle of the Raiden Shogun’s skill,” Kazuha replied warily. He never saw it and he never wanted to. “A symbol of ultimate power.”

“There must be one to withstand it.” Tomo simply smirked. “There will always be those who dare to brave the lightning’s glow.”

“How noble,” She commented before stopping her embroidery and glared at her brother. “Is it because such whispers depict her summoning her sword from her--”

Kazuha jumped off the branch to land on his friend’s back. “I’m not in the mood for your perverse antics, Tomo.”

As Tomo was recoiling in pain, the merchant laughed nervously as he met the violent sheen in her eyes. “A noble death is awaiting for you with this needle.” She said but quickly shook her head. “Shame on me for having such a brother.”

The samurai quietly peered over the girl’s head to see her nearly completed work of dragonflies swarming over peonies on a commissioned kimono. Once again, he was stunned by how her needlework exuded the same aura he felt around nature. He needed to say something-- anything. But plain praise fell out of his lips: “You did well.”

She paused to look back at him and stifled a laugh. “Flowers fall out of your mouth every time you speak, yet when it comes to complimenting, you become stiff as a board.” She still grinned at his bland words. “You have my thanks though.”

And once again, he was left stumbling for words. He immediately looked away to cover the creeping red from his ears and cheeks, a second away from missing the same tint blooming on her face.

His eyes then met with Tomo, a sly grin on his lips. Kazuha shot him a glare which earned the merchant a chuckle.

“Anyways, don’t you dare try to challenge her, Tomo.” The girl immediately changed the topic and snapped as she broke her thread. “I have a premonition that you would try.”

“Well, say she tried to seize your Vision, what would you do?” He shrugged and sighed. “Wouldn’t you want to save your own hopes and dreams and your prize of power? I heard that once your Vision is taken from you, your entire ambition will be forgotten.”

“Fair point,” The white-haired samurai admitted and glanced at his two friends. He was right. But, as if they would ever find themselves in that situation, right?

The thought of it made him feel distraught, so he looked away at the distance. But the crackling sound of a certain pyrotechnician’s fireworks bloomed over the starry sky, fueling the turmoil in his head. “I know we shouldn’t linger like forests and stones in one place for our adventures. But is it too much to ask if we could all come back here? All three of us.”

That was odd of him to say. They never really stayed at the same place twice. They ought to travel far, so there was no point in going to places they’ve already seen.

Both she and Tomo laughed. “Why not?” The girl stood up and took her place beside Kazuha. Tomo followed and stood on the other side. “Let’s watch the fireworks from here, again and again.”

They watched as the display continued to boom. It was strange. Fireworks were something that disappeared so quickly in mere seconds, yet the scene was etched in his mind. He wanted this moment to last forever.

They could always watch the fireworks in another place, like the mountain peaks or the roofs. They could always continue traveling altogether. They could always leave Inazuma--

But the future was still very uncertain. Every day on the road was a hazard for all of them to bear, especially for (Y/N) who had no Vision to protect herself. She might get hurt anytime if both Kazuha and Tomo were not paying any attention.

“Kazuha,” She flicked his forehead that immediately vanished his negative thoughts. The fireworks bloomed behind her. He wasn’t mesmerized by the scenery anymore. Her eyes captivated him. “Don’t be mad if I keep dragging you behind.”

When did my name have a special ring on it every time you said it?

So he smiled at her, reassuring her that everything would be alright. “I won’t be disappointed in you. Ever.” He said.

Just for that moment, she smiled back.

If it was something that made you laugh or smile, I would do it all over and over again.

~~~

And all he did was leave her crying in the rain, heartbroken.

He quickly sneaked off to the City in the disguise of a plain kimono and haori. He carefully treaded up to Ogura Mio’s shop just to check on the girl he left behind.

But she wasn’t there.

Kazuha panicked. He didn’t recognize her usual embroidery styles on display. He didn’t see her on her loom as children watched her weave.

(Y/N) was no longer in Inazuma City. Was she still with the Resistance? The Resistance Camp in Fort Fujitou was the last play he saw her.

How would he face (Y/N)? He still didn’t know. But he just needed to see her. He needed to know if she was safe.

Chapter Text

The Traveler and his companion’s stay in Watatsumi Island have been pleasant so far. But every chance he got to ask about (Y/N) was blocked.

He tried to ask Kokomi countless times whenever she was free, but a soldier would interrupt their conversations and report what had been happening on the warring land and sea.

“We’ve been with the Resistance for a week now,” Paimon whined and crossed her tiny arms. “No sign of (Y/N)!”

Aether sighed. He honestly didn’t know why he wanted to tangle himself with her mess. But perhaps the remnants of Tomo’s grief and longing embedded itself in Aether’s head. Perhaps he felt pity, perhaps it was sympathy.

“How’s it going?” The two look up to see the Herring I Squadron Captain and their friend, Teppei.

They waved and greeted him good afternoon and caught up with small talk. Teppei prepared a few onigiri and sake for them to share.

“By the way,” Paimon asked. “Why are we the head of Swordfish II? What happened to Swordfish I?”

Teppei put his hand to his chin to think. “To be honest, I don’t really know.”

“What?” The fairy shrieked, incredulous.

He laughed sheepishly. “Kokomi doesn’t really talk about it but I think I’ve seen him around wearing white.”

Aether’s ears caught on. “Him? What do you mean?”

“There’s only one person running Swordfish I. He works alone to scout and spy on the Kujou Encampment.” Teppei explained. “I don’t know if there were more in the squad.”

“One person?” The blonde repeated and glanced back at the pearlescent skies and shells of Sangonomiya. “Do you know where we could find him?”

The brunette soldier bit the rice ball before he answered. “He comes back to report at the end of the week. So you’ll see him in two days.”

“I see,” The blonde’s head was spinning from his overthinking and the drinks. He could worry about the owner of the hydrangea pin in two days then. For now, he’d like to enjoy his snacks with Teppei.

Paimon stared at the kanzashi on the box. “I’m getting really impatient. We have to wait for one more day to meet this mysterious Swordfish I, who also might be (Y/N).”

Aether laughed at the pouting fairy. “I hope they are the same person. If not, then this would be a wild goose chase.”

The two were resting by the cliffside which overlooked the shell palace. Another day working as a Captain of the Resistance was tiresome. Training recruits, stopping rogue forces, and cooking were his duties as a member of the group.

After seeing his twin sister with the Abyss, after running for his life after nearly losing him from the Musou no Hitotachi--

He finally felt at peace.

From down below, he grinned as he waved to his fellow squadmates.

“Paimon is still hungry.” She whined again after swallowing a whole rice ball. “Inazuma food is a whole other level after eating Liyue and Monstadt delicacies.”

Aether’s stomach growled. The Resistance was running low on food supplies. He had been sneaking out to Yashiori Island and Kannazuka to receive the Resistance’s necessities from their sponsors.

“Isn’t a supply drop coming in today? Can we go ahead?” Paimon asked with puppy dog eyes. “Please, Traveler, please?”

He laughed again and patted her hair. “Okay, I’m also quite hungry now, so it’ll be a win-win situation.”

And as they were traveling to the east near the port, a hooded figure caught his eye. Running towards the back of the Sangonomiya Temple.

Without thinking he took a step forward and ran toward its direction.

“Wait, slow down!” Paimon panted as she tried to keep up.

Was this person a spy from the Shogunate? Was this an assassin? Were they sent to start an ambush? Aether gritted his teeth as he struggled to keep his footing on the rocky ground. The hooded figure clad in white blended well with the pastel colors of Watatsumi as they continued running.

“Stop!” He yelled.

And the person did stop. They spun a polearm in their hand.

Aether staggered back, surprised from their abrupt attack. Instantly he summoned his duLL bLaDe to defend himself.

He attacked the person’s left. They almost got hit, as if they didn’t see the attack coming.

Aether swung left again, noticing his opponent's weakness as they barely managed to dodge one more time.

With the element of Electro, he flicked the person's weapon away.

His opponent froze as soon as they saw the purple color. “You-” They began, only to be interrupted by the swing of Aether’s sword.

The Traveler managed to control himself. His blade nearly hit the person, rather the woman right in front of him.

She raised her hands in surrender. “I’m with the Resistance, sorry for scaring you.”

The girl removed her hood to reveal her (h/l) (h/c) flowing from the wind. Aether was taken aback. Those (e/c) of hers did not shine the same way as he saw from the grave’s memory.

But the light in her eyes felt so superficial.

She smiled. “Indeed, your reputation precedes you, fellow Captain.”

Paimon zipped right to them. “Traveler, you really need to stop running away like that.”

The girl tensed. “What’s this floating bird-like thing?”

“Paimon is not a bird or a thing!” The fairy fumed. “Paimon is Paimon.”

“Okay…” Her voice trailed out, not wanting to press on further. “Well then, a pleasure to meet your acquaintance. The name’s (Y/N).” The girl grinned and bowed.

Aether introduced himself like how he always did to the other people of Teyvat.

“I’ll be going then to Sangonomiya.” She briskly turned around, the smile never fading away.

As soon as she was out of sight, the fairy asked. “Traveler, why didn't you return the hairpin?” Paimon nudged him slowly.

He shook his head. “That didn’t feel like the right moment.”

The blonde man felt uneasy around her aura. That smile felt so… forced. But a quick glance at her would leave you easily fooled.

Aether wondered what happened to the girl after he saw her walk away from the tomb.

A few days later, Aether saw Kokomi frown. Her brows furrowed as she was deep in thought.

“What’s wrong?” He asked, prepared for another assignment as the Swordfish II Captain.

The Priestess’ features relaxed as soon as she saw him. “I believe you already met (Y/N)?” She motioned to the hooded figure beside her.

(Y/N) smiled brightly at the Traveler. “Nice to see you again.”

Kokomi crossed her arms. “I have a dreaded feeling that my intuition was correct with who exactly our secret sponsor is.”

Aether widened his golden eyes. “Who?”

She shook her head. “(Y/N) managed to track down one of their representatives to where one of the Tsaritsa’s Harbingers reside.”

“What?” Aether had to control his anger. “Why are they meddling with the Resistance?”

Kokomi shook her head again and sighed. “I’m stumped trying to figure out their motive.”

Why were the Fatui back at it again? What do they want? Aether tried to wrack his brain for answers. Would the Resistance’s loss result in a win for getting the Gnosis?

(Y/N)’s eyes brightened and took Kokomi’s hands to reassure her. “Don’t worry, I overheard one of the other squad’s men talk about meeting with the secret sponsor. The Traveler and I could intercept and stop them at once.”

“Thank you for your kind words as always, (Y/N),” Kokomi replied.

The two captains raced to the rendezvous to the North.

Aether tried to start a conversation while running with the (h/c)-haired girl.

“How long have you been with the Resistance?”

A few seconds passed before she answered. “A year.”

The conversation ended, so he tried again.

“What do you do as Swordfish I?”

Another pause. “Like you, I’m doing special operations. Recon to be exact.”

It ended again. Aether looked at Paimon in frustration, but she just shrugged.

“How could you be so positive in a situation like this?” He finally asked.

She put a finger to her chin. “Hm, if I tell myself everything will be alright, then I have nothing to worry about.”

“What if you know that nothing’s going to be alright?” He blurted out an honest question. Aether wished he could turn back time to bite his tongue.

(Y/N) laughed. “It’s best not to think of it. If you lose, you lose. If you win, you win. If you lose someone, you best move forward.”

She sighed and faced the opposite direction. “It’s hard, believe me. I’m sorry I don’t know how to explain my words properly.”

“That’s alright,” He said sheepishly. Aether hoped the wall between them wouldn’t grow farther. He needed the right time to give the hairpin—

Her words replayed in his head. Aether wanted to kick himself again as he pieces together information.

Would she even want this back?

Aether was angry at himself. What was he meddling in her situation? It was not like she asked him to help her.

It was probably a hero complex acting up.

He groaned at his realization. Before he half-heartedly sprinted to catch up with the girl, she let out a laugh.

“You reminded me of my brother, sorry.” She grinned but this time, her eyes reflected the emotion she was displaying.(Y/N) seemed genuinely happy. “He likes to bombard me with questions every time he doesn’t know how to start a conversation.”

Aether laughed back sheepishly, slightly embarrassed. “Sorry if it made you uneasy.”

However, she still continued to talk, slowing down her pace. “Not at all, it’s nice to see there are some remnants of him in this world.”

(Y/N) shot him a look he couldn’t quite comprehend. “Has anyone told you about my brother?”

“No,”

She sighed. “Shame, and it’s a bigger shame you’ll never get to meet him.”

He didn’t want to know that it was Kazuha who told him the fate of Tomo, so he let her explain.

“My brother has always been taking care of me ever since our parents died of sickness when I was young. He did work meant for adults when he was just a teen. He was a very inspiring person I looked up to.” (Y/N) motioned to the Resistance camp behind them. “My brother was the one who took me here to protect me.”

As they were approaching the rendezvous, (Y/N) stopped running and smiled wistfully this time. “Because I relied on him so much, that’s why I’m the only person in Swordfish I. I don’t want to rely on too many people anymore… I’m afraid of disappointing others.”

So she faced him promptly, eyes burning with determination. “If I ever become a burden to you, be frank with me please. Sugar-coated words will never let me improve to be a better person.”

Aether was stunned with her sincerity. He was surprised with her straightforwardness despite feeling such a wall around her.

He nodded and smiled at her. “Sure, but do know that I don’t think you will be one.”

Paimon nodded. “Yup! You’ve done outstanding things for the Resistance, surely you won’t disappoint us.”

Though their words were encouraging, (Y/N)’s (e/c) eyes widened and for a second, sadness was evident. But it quickly faded away in a blink as soon as she saw someone waiting by the tides of Watatsumi.

“That’s someone from the Fatui?” Paimon asked as they hid from the man’s view. The man was clad in usual Inazuman attire but his features definitely did not look Inazuman.

“Perhaps,” (Y/N) whispered as she raised her white hood. “This wasn’t the same man I followed back; however, he’s definitely not alone. There are more hidden from our view.”

Anger flared within Aether. What the hell was the Fatui doing here? Were they not satisfied with just taking the Gnosis?

He felt a hand lower his blade. (Y/N) put a finger to her lips. “We need to avoid conflict to find out what’s going on.”

The blonde begrudgingly agreed. Controlling the rage he felt for the Fatui was getting harder every time.

(Y/N) stood up from their hiding spot and waved at their sponsor. “Hi there, I was told that I would be receiving the supplies for the Resistance from you?” She plastered up her usual fake and cheery smile.

The Fatui man with black hair was surprised to see a girl approach him. He let out a flirtatious smile, in which (Y/N) had to suppress her disgust. “The Resistance sent a young lady to me? Well, what can I do for you?”

She flashed a grin. “I heard from my comrades you are distributing weapons other than those specified in Her Excellency’s roster. Care to explain?”

The man clicked his tongue. “Everything comes with a price, you should know that.”

(Y/N) tensed as the Fatui touched her arm, but she easily swatted him away. “Please treat me with respect, I am still the representative of Sangonomiya for this formal meeting.”

The Traveler and Paimon still watched from afar, looking for any other enemies out of their peripherals. “Paimon can’t see the other Fatui from here,” She whispered, peering out a bit. “Do you think (Y/N) would be alright by herself?”

Aether wasn’t listening anymore. The uniformed Fatui hiding by rocks caught his eye. His eyes glowed purple from Electro.

Paimon panicked. “(Y/N) said not to fight them…” Her voice trailed off.

One of the Fatui--the Pyro Gunslinger-- aimed their weapon at the girl clad in white.

Their eyes widened in horror. “Does (Y/N) not see them?”

The blonde traveler recalled his first encounter with (Y/N). When he attacked her on her left, the girl had a delayed reaction to deflect the blow.

Is she blind on her left?

He dragged the floating fairy closer to the group of Fatui. “We need to beat them up.”

“WHAT?” Paimon yelled as he released his Electro attack from a distance.

Aether easily threw back the Hammer Vanguards and other Gunners. They were no match for him.

So he continued striking them down, trying to create as little noise as possible so (Y/N)’s talks with the “sponsor” would go smoothly.

He parried another attack but it wasn’t enough to shut up his opponents.

One of them shouted a signal to the Fatui with (Y/N). She summoned her polearm and easily flicked his weapon away. “This is, unfortunately, getting nowhere,” The girl taunted her enemy.

The two captains now fought side by side, easily defeating the puny henchmen. Aether ran forward and used Geo to knock more back.

Though (Y/N) had no Vision, she was doing exceptionally well with just a swing of her polearm.

After a few minutes, they successfully defeated all of the Fatui, as they came running and screaming towards their ship.

Paimon laughed. “Stupid Fatui! Think you’re tough enough to beat Paimon?”

Aether rolled his eyes at the imp.

(Y/N) was about to laugh at Paimon’s words when a bang interrupted their moment of victory.

Another Pyro Slinger shot their gun at (Y/N). Maybe they figured out her weakness.

The duo screamed her name.

In the nick of time, she deflected the molten bullet, but some of the embers struck her face.

Bang, bang, bang.

The gunslinger continued his round. The three took cover separately, but it was clear that he was after (Y/N).

“What do we do?” Paimon shook the Traveler’s shoulder in worry. “Is (Y/N) alright?”

Aether clenched his fists in anger from how naive they were to think the fight was over. He peeked by the rock to see (Y/N) in the distance hiding behind another chunk. But she had to move once it melted from the hot bullets.

That’s when his body moved without realizing it. He took the box holding the hairpin and the Vision.

“(Y/N)!” He yelled and threw the box with all his might, hoping to catch her attention. “Catch!”

Chapter Text

The shrapnel hit her eye.

She screamed. Everything hurts.

Her entire face felt like it was burning.

It was painful. Now her chest felt tight. Now her limbs felt numb.

She couldn’t cry out the pain. It made everything worse.

“Brother,” (Y/N) sobbed as she blindly reached out towards the direction of Tomo’s shouts.

As soon someone touched her shoulder, she recoiled in fear.

“(Y/N), it’s me.” A soft voice released the tension knotting within her.

She didn’t need to open her eyes to know who that is.

“Kazuha?” She asked and let herself melt into his embrace.

“I’m sorry,” He whispered and carried her, bridal style. “We need to get out of here.”

But she struggled in his grip. “I’m fine, what about my brother—”

“You’re definitely not,” The boy harshly said back. She gritted her teeth, trying to suppress the pain.

Kazuha sighed and patted her head, the same thing he did since they were young, to calm her down. “Worry about yourself first.”

(Y/N) didn’t argue any further.

“It’s been five months already. My eye has healed.” (Y/N) protested as Tomo closed the door to their home. She kicked the door open in anger and tried to run toward her brother.

Their house was near the giant cherry blossom in Hanamizaka in the City. Some residents stared warily at the quarreling siblings.

“Brother, listen to me.” She said, voice hardening like steel. “I’m fine, I can see.”

The ash blonde merchant sighed but continued walking. Their cat, Shiro, nudged (Y/N)’s feet, as if he was also against her going out to travel. As soon as they were nearing the estuary, away from a crowd, Tomo abruptly stopped to pick up the cat. He finally faced his little sister, his eyes a mix of negative emotions.

“I broke Mother’s promise.” He muttered. “I can’t guarantee your safety anymore, (Y/N).”

“I’m fine now!” She motioned to her (e/c) eyes even though she knew it was a lie. Her view of the scenery felt off. Her vision felt limited. She knew her left eye was showing her a blurry side of the world.

Her brother smiled sadly and patted her head. “Wait for me here.”

So he turned on his heel, carrying the cat and his bag of goods to sell for work.

He left her alone again.

(Y/N) was furious. With her brother. With herself.

Two months without going out as a trio, everything felt boring.

She turned the other way around. It was no use to throw a tantrum. Everything would get worse if she acted stubborn against her brother.

The girl returned to their home. Everything felt dank inside. She tried to sew, everything was boring like before.

She forced herself to weave until the afternoon. If she didn’t create any new design, they wouldn’t have money for another meal.

She worked in the same place for a long time.

Until there was a tap on her window.

(Y/N) glanced outside to see a white-haired samurai waving at her. Surprised, she quickly opened the door to welcome her guest. “Kazuha!” She forced a smile, the same one he was always familiar with. “Did you have a safe trip-” Her voice cut off to see him holding a pink flower-- a dendrobium orchid.

Her face flushed the same color of the flower. “What’s this?” She desperately searched for words to mask her feelings.

Kazuha rubbed the back of his head sheepishly. “I know you usually take our ventures as inspiration for your weaving. Thus, I thought it’d be best to give you a starting point for your designs.”

Her fingers brushed his as she took it. “Thank you…”

(Y/N) refused to meet Kazuha’s eyes, but she felt his other hand on her cheek. He forced her to look at him as he was studying the left side of her face.

The room grew hotter.

“W-what’s wrong?” She sputtered, holding his wrist in hopes of pulling it away.

His face suddenly looked crestfallen. “I’m sorry.”

His hold on her loosened, so she grabbed his hand. “I’m alright now.” She smiled at him, it was genuine this time.

Through sad eyes, Kazuha smiled back at her. “Don’t hate your brother. Resentment will do nothing in both of your favors.”

She nodded her head and set the flower aside with her cloth. “I know,”

He stifled a chuckle. “He’s just paranoid, that’s all.”

“I know,” (Y/N) turned away, voice now a mumble.

Kazuha panicked. He may have lowered her spirits once again. “I’ll come back, don’t you worry. Every time I leave, I’ll return with something that will be useful to you.”

This time, she beamed. “I’d love that.”

So he kept his word. For two months, he continued to bring back one thing from his journey. Sometimes he brought back a pouch of petals, twigs or potpourri. Other times he came back empty handed but prepared an anecdote and a haiku.

After all this time, Tomo realized how much of a tyrant he’s been in (Y/N)’s life.

So he went to her room in the night, a lantern in his hand.

“Sorry for all my paranoia,” He whispered to his sister curled in a ball.

She immediately shot up and raised a brow. “I’m awake, I didn’t think you were a coward.”

He choked and stumbled back, falling on his butt. “(Y/N), why aren’t you asleep yet? It’s midnight.”

(Y/N) scoffed. “Are you my brother or my father?” The (h/c)-haired girl buried her face in her pillow to not look at him.

“What’s wrong with your brother being overprotective?”

“Nothing!” She raised her voice a little too loudly. “I’m grateful for you. Ever since we lost Mother and Father, you’re all I have!”

“Exactly that’s why I can’t put you in danger anymore-”

“But I don’t want to be alone!” She screamed and threw the pillow at him.

He was shocked. This was the first time he saw his sister like this. She was always smiling, saying she was fine and brushed things off easily.

She hugged her arms as she sobbed. “I promise I won’t be a burden! I’ll learn how to protect myself! Please, take me with you!”

Tomo’s face darkened in frustration. He realized his mistake.

Protecting the family he had left was all he did all his life. But was he protecting her? No, he was basically imprisoning her from all her rights. But she nearly died because of him. He didn’t want that to happen again.

Looking after his little sister was hard. Without parents, Tomo barely had a childhood. So he watched other families from afar, trying to understand how to take care of someone. He dedicated his life in hopes that (Y/N) would experience the same anguish.

How could he help her if he couldn’t help himself?

As he was staring out in the darkness, the brother felt someone hold him. He snapped back to reality and saw his sister hugging him.

“I don’t want you to be alone either.” (Y/N) pleaded. Though she was crying, her (e/c) eyes shone determination. “We only have each other, that means we have to rely on each other. I don’t want you to carry the burden.”

Tomo smiled weakly. How could he say no after she knocked some sense into him?

He sighed and patted her (h/c) hair. “I really need to stop acting like I know everything.”

(Y/N) laughed at him. “We’re both a bunch of idiots in this world. It’s fine if you feel down. I bet Kazuha doesn’t know what he talks about half of the time.”

Tomo pouted. “It seems like you’re more attached to Kazuha than me.”

“It’s because he didn’t ground me for three months.” She rolled her eyes and hit her brother with the pillow again. “He also kept me company all this time.”

The ash blonde’s pout deepened. “I see…”

He put a finger to his chin, as if he were deep in thought. (Y/N) realized how off-putting she sounds. “I DIDN’T MEAN IT THE WAY YOU’RE THINKING. ALL HE DID WAS GIVE ME A TRINKET FROM HIS TRAVELS, THAT’S ALL.”

It was his turn to laugh at her outburst. “I know, I know. I’ve seen him stare at a plant in Tsurumi and Seirai Island as if he were shopping for some clothes in a store.”

The boy noticed the reddening ears of his sister. He sighed, knowing that she was well growing up now. He could protect her in the “battle” department, but no way was he going to try to meddle within infatuation.

So finally, three months after the incident, Tomo reluctantly let her travel again.

But the day they set off for a new adventure, (Y/N) was late to their meeting place.

“Did something happen?” Kazuha asked the merchant.

Tomo shook his head. “Well, (Y/N) was fetching water from the river for her work the last time I saw her…” His voice trailed off.

The boys’ mouths fell open to see the girl running towards them, a clear dark blue Vision in her hand was glinting in the sun.

Though her head spun from the wound, she felt a familiar presence that calmed her.

As soon as the Vision she hadn’t held in a year found its way to her hand, power surged throughout her body.

This hydrangea kanzashi reminded her of the days long ago, but there was no time to be sentimental.

She formed threads of water—the same ones from a year ago—and flicked away the Pyro bullet in the nick of time.

Realizing his opponent had a Vision, the Fatui gave up and ran away.

Breathing hard, she slumped down to the sand, remembering what it felt like to wield a Vision.

(Y/N) turned to see the blonde traveler and the floating… thing approach her. She held onto the hairpin gingerly, as if she were afraid it would break.

“Where did you get this?” Her voice was a hoarse whisper. This was no coincidence, it was as if this was made especially for her.

She raised a brow as Aether tried tensed, sweating nervously as he tried to find the right words.

“We found it in the Battle of Tatarasuna,” He managed to say.

Paimon nodded vigorously and gave her the black casing. “Yup, it was in this box?”

(Y/N) stared at them. The way they talked was suspicious, yet she didn’t sense a lie.

In this case, they weren’t speaking the whole truth.

She sighed and returned the pin to its box. “Where did you get this Vision? I can certainly tell it was mine.”

“We found your brother’s grave, so as we paid respects, I sensed something in there and found it.” He replied.

The girl then forced a wry smile. “I see,” She murmured as she hid it in her coat pocket. “Thank you, I guess.”

She briskly walked away, still unable to comprehend the situation. “I’ll be reporting back to Kokomi about who our secret sponsor is. However, since my conversation with them was going around in circles, I do not know what exactly they are scheming. Please excuse me.”

(Y/N) stiffly bowed and walked away, remembering that luminescent glow the Vision emitted.

If this Vision burns brightly, then does that mean I still have a dream?

Chapter Text

Aether was beginning to regret his life decisions.

Paimon dragged him along to catch up with the running girl. “Come on!” She hissed.

The Traveler had a horrified face. “I’m wondering why I even wanted to do this. I think she’s angry.”

“(Y/N) seemed grateful!”

“She specifically said ‘thanks, I guess’!” Aether let out a loud groan. “I was supposed to not give it but then the damn Fatui--”

They stopped in their tracks by the entrance of the Resistance Camp.

(Y/N) was standing there by the path, frozen.

Thinking she was fatally injured from the fight, Aether and Paimon rushed forward to check on the girl… only to see her completely fine.

But her (e/c) were welled with tears. Not with sadness. No. For a moment, she looked happy… overjoyed.

They turned to the direction she was facing.

There was a certain white-haired samurai walking on the bridge. The prominent streak of red hair and maple leaf haori made it undeniably Kaedehara Kazuha.

Before another second could pass, a high pitched call rang through the air.

“HEY KAZUHA!” Paimon yelled, waving her tiny hands to the man from afar. “WE’RE HERE WITH--”

Aether immediately clamped his hand over the fairy’s mouth. He could see Kazuha turn around, seemingly confused, but continued his path over the wooden bridge to the Temple.

The boy forgot to give the specifics of his vision in Tomo’s grave to Paimon. He didn’t tell the fairy about the sour relationship between samurai and the ex-seamstress.

“Shush!” Aether hissed and turned to look at (Y/N).

She was gone.

Now she was behind the wall of one of the wooden houses, breathing heavily from sprinting with all her might.

Paimon’s face fell to realization. “Oh…”

The Traveler and the fairy slowly approached (Y/N) sitting on crates. “Are you okay?” Paimon asked, frantic now.

She smiled wryly. “Slightly dazed from the Pyro Gunslinger’s attack.” The girl wiped her forehead with her white cloak to see some blood smeared.

Aether hung his head low in shame. “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to stop them--”

“Don’t be,” (Y/N) cut him off and stood up. “This injury isn’t your fault. I believe you noticed my eyesight isn’t quite clear on my left eye?”

He nodded.

The (h/c) girl scratched her hair, sighing, visibly disappointed. “There’s still a lot of things I’ve got to learn, so I can fend off everything myself.”

She took a deep breath and dusted off her pants. “It would be a burden if the wound festered into something worse,” (Y/N) said, smiling. “Therefore the best option is for me to tend to it.”

Aether could see the tears she was holding back. Why was she forcing up this false smile? Why was she holding up this wall around her?

“I could help--”

“No need, no need.” She abruptly turned on her heel and left for the medical cabins.

The Traveler felt frustrated. Being in the middle of political tension was exasperating. Being in the middle of personal tension between relationships was even more frustrating.

But he can’t help but feel bad as he watched this misunderstanding unfold. Meddling further might make the situation worse.

“Traveler, why don't we go to Kokomi?” Paimon sweatdropped. She tugged on his sleeve and he nodded, slightly distraught but tried not to get distracted.

The two reached the temple to see the Watatsumi Priestess, arms crossed as she was deep in thought. The Geo bow user was with her. Beside them was the person (Y/N) was dreading to see.

Kazuha was chatting with her, telling her his adventures out with the Crux. Both of their faces immediately brighten up as she sees the Traveler and his companion. “Did things go well? Are you alright?”

Aether answered. “(Y-) I mean, the Captain of Swordfish I was unfortunately injured in the fight. However, it was just a minor injury so there’s nothing to worry about.”

Kazuha’s face immediately morphed to concern. Did he know that (Y/N) was Swordfish I? Aether needed to answer cautiously. “We discovered that the Fatui is definitely plotting something, however, we were attacked before they could give us any more information.”

The Hydro catalyst user sighed. “I have my suspicions about who amongst us is the mole.” Kokomi turned to the General. “Gorou, please see the Captain. I have another assignment for you for later.”

The man nodded and left Aether with Kokomi and Kazuha. The blonde eyed the samurai, who was definitely looking around the area as if he were looking for someone. Aether wanted to say something because Kazuha looked so conflicted.

But he knew his place.

So he turned his attention back to Kokomi. She smiled apologetically to the white-haired boy. “Kazuha, I know you just returned, but I need to personally monitor the troops to confirm my suspicions. Since we know Fatui is our sponsor, we’ll be needing more provisions because we can’t rely on them any longer for food and materials.”

The samurai nodded but it definitely showed his mind was elsewhere.

Aether was surprised to see Beidou again. After the Battle of Tatarasuna, the pirate captain decided it would be best to help the Resistance before leaving. She would want to help see the freedom of Inazuma.

The two travelers boarded the Crux to sail to Fort Mumei to retrieve the supplies acquired by Herring I, Teppei’s platoon, and bring it back to Sangonomiya. The blonde was excited to see his Inazuman friend once again. It’s been a while since the two have talked due to their responsibilities as Captains.

“Have you found the owner of the pin?” Beidou’s voice interrupted his thoughts as she stood beside him on the deck.

“Yeah,” Aether nodded and looked up to the crow’s nest to see Kazuha sitting there, staring off into the distance. “She seemed quite unhappy to get her Vision back.”

“Vision?” The Electro claymore user said in surprise.

“The kanzashi was meant to be a Vision holder. But according to Kamisato Ayaka, this was handmade by an amateur, so I’m guessing this was a gift Kazuha for this girl named (Y/N).”

“Ah, I can’t believe he had an old flame in Inazuma. Never thought he was someone like that.” Beidou stifled a laugh. “Where is she?”

“She’s the only member of the Reconnaissance squadron with the Resistance.” Aether replied. “She’s currently in the infirmary--”

Kazuha suddenly dropped down from the air, his expression was unreadable.

Paimon laughed nervously. “Hi Kazuha…”

The Anemo samurai didn’t get mad at them. Instead, all he did was sigh. “The wind tells me what I need to hear. But since it already happened, there’s nothing to fuss over.”

He joined the trio by the deck and leaned on the railing. “Is… is (Y/N) fine?”

Aether didn’t want to act as a messenger between their… affair. “Ask her yourself,”

Kazuha tensed. “She probably hates me.”

“She doesn’t,” The blonde responded. “I saw it with my own eyes. She actually looked happy to see you from afar.”

“Wha-”

“There’s nothing to worry about Kazuha!” Beidou slung her arm over his shoulder and ruffled his hair. “What did I tell you?”

Aether looked at the woman. “What did you tell him?”

“I figured it all out now.” The pirate chimed. “When I first saved this idiot over here, he was mourning his friend who was also a brother. I didn’t know the one you’re pining for is his sister.”

Like a mother, Beidou smiled at Kazuha. “Your friend died in honor. He died doing what he wanted, there’s nothing to blame yourself over.

“It’s hard to watch your comrades die right in front of their eyes. But the last thing they would want you to do is blame yourself. They would want you to move on with your life.” She sighed. “I wasn’t there, but you most definitely misheard him. Judging from all the stories you told me, I don’t think that ‘I won’t forgive you’ was yours to hear.”

Aether was shocked. “Tomo said that?”

Kazuha’s eyes were looking elsewhere, refusing to meet their faces. “I was quite sure he did. If he can’t forgive me, why should his sister forgive me as well? Besides,” He shifted away from the hold of the woman. “I haven’t seen her in a year. I don’t know how to face her.”

Paimon, in her usual style, piped in the conversation. “How about approaching her with some food? Paimon would be easy to talk to if you bring food! Maybe some onigiri! We saw (Y/N) eating them.”

Aether pinched the fairy. “This isn’t about you!”

Kazuha laughed. “It’s fine,” The samurai finally smiled. “That reminded me of a memory…”

“You were so close, and the fact that she joined the Resistance for Recon means she knows how to wield a weapon.” Beidou nudged the boy with her elbow. “She would’ve hunted you down for revenge if she saw you from a distance.”

The nudge of the boat interrupted their conversation. The crew hollered. They were nearing Fort Mumei.

“I still need time to sort my head out.” Kazuha mumbled as they were about to dock. “I don’t want to aggravate everything from my hasty and rash words.”

Aether couldn’t push him any further. Though he was getting quite… irritated with how the situation could just be solved with a conversation.

But it definitely wouldn’t be easy.

So he gave Kazuha a reassuring glance. “Not everything lasts forever, not everything is eternal.” Aether smiled at him. “Everything will end one day. You can’t avoid her forever. If you do something, this cycle of cat-and-mouse will be a memory you laugh at one day. Not all troubles last forever.”

The samurai nodded and the two left the Crux.

Kazuha has been silent ever since they left the ship.

Paimon was worried that they probably said the wrong thing to him. Aether too. But he knew that the boy was still reflecting. He needed time. Even if he had a year to figure things out, it wouldn’t be simple.

And for now, Aether would focus on the task at hand.

After the two defeated a Thunder Lawachurl, they managed to meet Teppei with the goods for the Resistance.

But Teppei didn’t look so well.

“Are you alright?” Paimon asked the Captain of Herring I.

His hair looked grayer. He was coughing aggressively. It was as if he grew years older in a week.

That’s when Aether realized how the Fatui were contributing to this mess.

Chapter Text

(Y/N) and Gorou were back in Narukami Island for another supply run, which was just a code for more reconnaissance.

After the Traveler told Kokomi the Fatui’s involvement, the Hydro Priestess made her next assignment to her most trusted followers: Gorou and (Y/N).

She was back where it all started. Fort Fujitou.

Kokomi stated that she had suspicions on Nathan, a soldier positioned there. That could explain the sudden attacks in their base according to her. How did she come to that conclusion? The seamstress wasn’t fully listening to Kokomi’s words. Her mind kept wandering.

Kazuha was back. Was he looking for her?

That made her happy. Just seeing him made her tear up from joy.

But there was this uneasy feeling settling in the bottom of her stomach.

Did he want to see her? After what happened a year ago?

She was scared to face him.

(Y/N) didn’t want to hear him reject her again.

She stifled a laugh at her pathetic self. She had one year to move on. She learned to continue walking without her brother, Tomo.

Though the words were not directed to her, every day, she tried to figure out what he meant by ‘I won’t forgive you.’

Why? Tomo, why did you say those words?

Why did you leave me as well, Kazuha?

Her head kept overthinking, she crashed into a maple tree.

“Ack!” She yelled and rubbed her forehead. (Y/N) looked up to see what blocked her path.

The wind howled. The leaves flew around. She stared up to the branches as she recalled the day she first met him.

Seven Years Ago

“Rustle of caged leaves,
Bamboo heads meet silver ends…”

Kazuha watched bamboo farmers from a distance. The incomplete haiku left a disdainful taste in his mouth as he struggled to find the perfect ending. He fiddled with the sleeves of his plain white yukata.

“The wind feels hollow.” A voice below jolted him in surprise.

By the base of the maple tree, the apprentice of the seamstress Ogura Mio was staring up at him. He remembered her name was (Y/N). All she did was carry the fabrics for his family to choose from. Kazuha still hasn’t chosen what design he would like to wear for the upcoming tea ceremony with the Kujou Clan.

He avoided her at all costs. She was just another vermin in his life. Yet all she did was try to get closer to him. That mischievous grin of hers infuriated him.

The boy stared at the (e/c)-eyed girl below. “What are you doing?”

“You were struggling to finish this poem, so I gave a suggestion,” She nearly slipped from the tree bark, but he immediately stooped down to grab her hand. “But you don’t need to pay any heed to what I’m saying. I have no expertise in literature, after all.”

“Why are you climbing up here?” He immediately let go of her as soon as she regained her footing.

She grinned toothily. “You seemed lonely up there, plus, the view is quite lovely.”

Kazuha sighed. There was no other way to convince her otherwise. He scooted to the side to allow her to sit near the trunk to maintain her balance.

He didn’t face her. Archons, he was a brat. But (Y/N) didn’t mind.

“What’s wrong?” She asked softly.

“Nothing,”

“Then why won’t you look at me?”

“You’re a girl who I’ve only known for a week with no shame since you’re sitting too close to me.” He countered but mumbled his last words. “You annoy me.”

(Y/N) tilted her head, watching the boy’s white hair tousle in the wind. “How?”

“A commoner’s life is easier than mine, when no one expects you to be anything.” Kazuha huffed. “An heir’s life isn’t as lavish as it seems from the outside.”

She hummed to show him she was listening. The young girl brought out her hastily made onigiri for lunch. “You want some?”

He furrowed his brows. “You made this in a hurry?”

She shrugged and took a bite on the onigiri that’s nearly falling apart. “At least I could eat it. I was late.”

Kazuha cringed. “I don’t like food made in a rush.”

She lightly punched his face with her free hand. “Stop being a crybaby and take it.”

“Fine,” He huffed and snatched it from her calloused hands. Her hands distracted him.

“Why are your fingers so marred?” He asked as he took her hands upon his.

She flushed scarlet like the autumn leaves. “I’m a seamstress. Weaving is quite a vigorous task as I handle threads.”

Kazuha let go, now eating the poorly made onigiri. “Is sewing your passion?”

“Yes, it is.”

“And how old are you?”

“I’m 13, like you.”

“Should 13 year olds be working?”

“Should any child or teen act like the world is on their shoulders?” (Y/N) sighed and stared at the distance. “In this world, we need to grow up early.”

Kazuha grimaced and looked another way. It was harsh but true. As the heir of the Kaedehara Clan, all he had to do was to live up to the expectations. Ever since he became a teen, responsibilities came crashing to him as he had to become someone perfect like his father.

Anger flared within him from her words but he calmed himself down. Kazuha turned to the girl, who was now looking at him intently.

It was his turn to look like a tomato. “What is it?” Sputtered the boy as he inched backwards.

“You, young sir, remind me of two things.” (Y/N) reached out and got a stray maple leaf caught on the strands of his white hair. “First, this maple leaf would be a great design for your haori, won’t it?”

He was surprised and looked up at the scattering leaves he loved observing that complemented the sunset. “I guess it would be a nice fit,”

“And second,” She flicked the leaf away and grinned. “You remind me of my older brother.”

Kazuha was surprised to learn she wasn’t an only child. “How so?”

“You act like you have to carry the burden of others as well.” (Y/N) muttered. “There are other people here to help you.”

For a second, her cheerful face was gone and replaced with melancholy. But like the falling leaves, it suddenly shifted back to the usual cheekiness. “You may not know me, but I’m here to help.”

“You know how to handle the blade?”

“No… but teach me!”

“You know how to handle finances? You want me to teach you that?”

Her face morphed to disgust. “Mathematics? No. It’s gross. I can only provide you moral support as I watch you suffer.”

Kazuha laughed at her words, nearly choking on the rice of the onigiri. “Well that’s definitely boosting my morale.”

It’s been a while since Kazuha felt relaxed. (Y/N) was definitely someone he wanted to be close with.

She laughed along with him but leaned back, losing her balance.

“Watch out!” He yelled but the girl came tumbling down to the earth.

Kazuha let go of his food and jumped down to catch her in time. “Archons, (Y/N), you need to look out for yourself as well--”

The seamstress’ (e/c) eyes were slightly teary from shock. She was trembling in his arms.

He immediately toned down his words. “Are you alright?” He asked softly.

She blinked and immediately her fear was gone. “Yeah, yeah, I’m fine! Nothing to worry about!”

Kazuha was slightly surprised. This fearless girl who was reckless enough from the start to climb up a tall maple tree in a kimono was now vulnerable in his arms.

His face flushed scarlet and he immediately dropped the girl to her butt.

“Ow!” She yelped and glared at him. “You could’ve been nicer with that?”

“You said you were fine, so what’s the need to hold you?” The boy scoffed and glanced away.

(Y/N) turned to see what he was looking at: their onigiri was lying down on the ground. The ants had their own feast today.

“Well that was a waste,” Kazuha picked up the pace of his feet, walking back to the Kaedehara clan’s estate. But he paused just for a while. “Make sure to bring another batch next time, but don’t make it in a hurry.”

She smiled brightly again, realizing he was going to wait for her to come back again.

Present

Sometimes, (Y/N) understood why the Raiden Shogun tried so hard to preserve the eternity she was familiar with.

The past was one of the only few things keeping the girl sane throughout this entire war. She always lingered with her feelings for Kazuha. She still couldn’t stop loving him.

They’ve spent 7 years together as friends. Those years worth of precious memories couldn’t immediately vanish easily, even if she had around a year to move on.

Some things are unchangeable.

But just because (Y/N) still loved him for that long, that doesn’t guarantee anything for Kazuha.

Would he even want to be with her now?

Chapter Text

Gorou watched the seamstress walk right into a tree and saw her staring at it for a long while. He sighed. Ever since (Y/N) knew of Kazuha’s return, her mind kept wandering off away from present time.

She immediately laughed to cover up her mishap. “Sorry about that,” The (h/c)-haired girl chuckled as she rubbed her forehead. “I’m fine, don’t worry.”

After Kokomi assigned him to check up on (Y/N) in the infirmary after their confrontation with the Fatui, Gorou kept her company. He knew that her injury wasn’t serious at all. She just needed an excuse to stay away from Kazuha.

As a friend of both the samurai and the seamstress, it was awkward to stay in between them. Sometimes he thought it would be for the best to coax the girl to try and talk to him, but in reality, she had to be the one to wait for an answer.

Because sometimes, he just wants to punch and ask Kazuha what the hell was he thinking.

Gorou was there that day. He heard their conversation. He saw the coldblooded stupor (Y/N) was driven into.

Ever since that day, the usual glow in her (e/c) eyes were gone. The entire Resistance feared her snarky attitude at first. Over time, her steely nature softened. She smiled brightly as she did a year ago. At first, he was happy to see her move on with her life.

But ever since Kokomi reported to ask help from the Crux and Kazuha in the Battle of Tatarasuna, (Y/N) froze and made an excuse to stay behind in Watatsumi.

He understood that she still hasn’t moved on from Kazuha. Perhaps, she still hasn’t moved on from the death of her brother fully yet.

Gorou missed the days when Tomo was still alive and well. Though he was a troublemaker, he never did things with ill intentions. Come to think of it, he nearly did everything for the sake of (Y/N).

Ever since Tomo died and Kazuha left, Gorou and Kokomi have been taking care of her. The three always chatted during meals together. Kokomi and (Y/N) styled each other’s hair every once in a while and talked about tactics. When it was just the two of them, (Y/N) constantly teased him with his admiration for the Priestess.

Though she looked all jolly on the outside, Gorou felt bad he couldn’t help (Y/N) with her sadness. All he and Kokomi could do was stay by her side.

The two suddenly tense as they see the soldier they’re observing start leaving his post. Nathan slowly slipped by Resistance members with a wave and started walking towards the south. (Y/N) readied her polearm, the hairpin in her hair glowed.

“When did you get your Vision back?” Gorou asked, remembering

“Yesterday, the Traveler and his companion gave it to me.” She whispered as she slowly followed the soldier from afar. “I thought the kanzashi was lovely to be honest.”

A memory struck Gorou. He knew where he had seen this.

Four Years Ago

Before the Vision Hunt, before all the chaos, they were just friends who hung out.

“What have you got there?” Gorou took a seat beside Kazuha, who was sitting on top of a yumemiru tree.

The samurai immediately hid what he was holding away from his furry friend. “Nothing.”

His golden eyes glowed. “It’s for (Y/N), isn’t it?”

“What’s for (Y/N)?” A voice interrupted their conversation from below. Tomo climbed up the tree trunk to sit beside Gorou.

Kazuha looked horrified. “This tree is going to snap.”

Gorou laughed. “It’s fine, you could just yeet yourself off easily with your E.”

“What?”

“What?”

“What?”

“Anyways!” Tomo clapped his hands and glared at the white-haired boy. “It’s for my sister?”

Kazuha turned away. “It’s not!”

“What? Do you want my blessing to marry her or something? Aren’t you still 17?”

“Like I said, it’s not for her!” Kazuha finally hid it in his maple haori pocket.

Gorou still managed to see the trinket in his hand. A small hair pin adorned with small blue petals. A hydrangea maybe.

Yes, this was definitely for (Y/N). He thought as he recalled the clothing the seamstress wears.

A creaking sound started to tear the silence.

“Gorou, get out.” Tomo pushed the boy to the side. “It’s about to break, you’re too heavy.”

The brunette glared at the ash blonde. “You’re the one who came late. You get out.”

The branch snapped.

All three boys fell to their butts, except Kazuha, who used his Vision to easily land on his feet safely.

They continued walking, with the samurai listening to their whines about work all day.

When they finally returned to the City, Gorou was about to go ahead when saw the two others pause their walking. From afar, they could see (Y/N) talking to the cityfolk, a water basin of cloth on her hands.

Tomo’s eyes were suddenly serious, all the joking energy was gone. He turned to Kazuha and spoke in a hoarse whisper. “Promise me, you’ll protect her. Promise me, please,”

Gorou didn’t mean to hear this, so he decided to move forward.

Kazuha gave him a confused look but nodded. “I promise, don’t you worry.”

Suddenly, the merchant brother of the girl smirked. “You’ll have my blessing any day!”

He punched Tomo. “Shut up!”

Kazuha’s face still flushed scarlet from recalling all that. His feelings are still the same, as much as he hated to admit it.

But he knew he didn’t deserve (Y/N).

Him and the Traveler were just arriving on Yashiori Island. Aether had something he wanted to check out so Kazuha complied. What’s wrong with a bit of traveling?

When they arrived in Fort Fujitou he finally saw her.

Back at the same place where it all started.

Where he left her.

She was with Gorou, hands crossed over front. Instead of the usual floral kimono, she wore a plain white one with a hood to cover her face. But he could still see the (h/c) hair peeking out, now slightly longer, tousling in the wind.

The wind blew away the hood to finally reveal her face.

Her eyes. Her (e/c) eyes were staring down at the ground, but when she looked up to talk to the General, it brimmed with intelligence. Her brows were slightly scrunched from pondering. But he finally saw something pinned in her hair.

It was the kanzashi he meant to give her years ago. The same blue and purple petals were dangling from her hair. A single Hydro Vision shone on its center.

But why did she have that hairpin? Didn’t he give it to Beidou for the Crux Clash? He wanted to get rid of it.

Yet it came back to who it was meant for. And he wasn’t even the one who gave it to her.

Finally their eyes met.

Though it was from a distance, for just a moment, his vermillion eyes met her (e/c) ones. The eyes of the girl he fell in love with a long time ago.

But she immediately looked away and continued her conversation with Gorou.

She looked angry this time. Was it because of him?

No.

Aether looked angry too as he approached the two.

On (Y/N)’s palm stood a silver pendant that glowed red. The Fatui’s symbol is marked on it.

“A Delusion…” The blonde snarled. Before he could take it from the seamstress’ fingers, it exploded.

Chapter Text

Before anyone could scream, a crystal glow shielded the blast of embers.

All looked at Gorou, who had (Y/N) close to his chest.

Aether and Kazuha looked at the girl, mouths agape to see (Y/N) with her polearm drawn with her left arm, her Vision glowing. Threads of water flicked the shrapnel away from them.

She was lucky enough she let go before it scalded her skin. Gorou managed to pull all of them away in time from the explosion.

“(Y/N), are you alright?” Paimon asked, bewildered as the girl ripped her sleeve off.

“I’m fine, don’t worry about me.” She huffed and sat back down, leaning down at the trunk of a tree. “We gotta get back to Her Excellency, she needs to know about these Delusions.”

Aether turned away, trying to control his seething rage. His fairy companion worriedly looked at him.

Kazuha still stood there, shocked with what happened. He wanted to run to her, to ask her if she was okay. Just like how it was back in the day.

Just like back then.

But things change.

(Y/N) promptly brushed past him.

After following Nathan down south, Gorou and (Y/N) found a camp of Fatui. There were these wooden crates that smelled like Mist Grass. The two snuck nearer to snatch the mysterious object.

It glowed like a Vision. But (Y/N) didn’t want to wield it.

When they returned to Fort Fujitou, she saw him

She finally saw Kazuha.

He was still wearing the red maple leaf haori he gave her years ago. He was still wearing his usual samurai attire. He still had his white hair with a single crimson streak. He still had those damned beautiful vermillion eyes.

He still was the same. Yet he was so different.

The girl was the first to meet his eyes, yet she was the first one to look away.

She saw Aether again. The (h/c)-haired girl decided it would be best to divert her attention to the traveler.

But he told her what was in her hand.

A Delusion. A weapon of the Fatui. A little thing that gives immense power in exchange for your own life.

Her own emotions took a hold of her.

And the Delusion bursted to ashes.

She didn’t know how and why. But she reacted immediately. (Y/N) easily summoned threads of water to contain the explosion.

Damn it all. Just 2 days after he returned, she’s been getting herself injured too many times. She’s been messing up too many times.

She didn’t want to face him so she walked away. Walked right past him.

Maybe in the back of her mind, she was hoping he would chase after her.

But he never did.

So the ride back to Watatsumi was awkward.

Aether was in a really bad mood now.

The Fatui have gone too far. They infiltrated the Resistance to taunt the powerless with easy power. Except they left out the fact that they would die if a Delusion was used too much.

No wonder Teppei…

He clenched his fists, anger flaring within him.

Paimon tapped his shoulder. “Traveler, calm down!”

He couldn’t. He just couldn’t.

Yeah, the boat ride back was really awkward.

Gorou stood stiffly by Beidou in the Quarterdeck, watching the sea. They all boarded the Crux but there was a clear distance between all four people.

Kazuha stayed up in the crow’s nest. Aether was by the figurehead with Paimon. (Y/N) was standing by the side, also staring out to nowhere.

The General sighed and sweatdropped. He wanted to get back. Now.

Later in the afternoon, they finally reached the Resistance and reported what they found to the Priestess.

It was a pain for Gorou to see the tension before him.

Kazuha has these eyes that desperately want to talk.

(Y/N)’s eyes showed that she wanted to run away.

Aether’s eyes looked like he wanted to kill someone.

The General suppressed his exasperation. He needed to know his orders of next action. So Kokomi ordered all Delusions to be removed immediately.

The Traveler left abruptly, going to Teppei’s house. So the remaining three had to carry out the wishes of Her Excellency.

How great.

Gorou thought the best way to ease the unpleasant tension was by making them do their work separately, to which they easily complied.

And (Y/N) was grateful for that decision.

She had one year to clear out her thoughts and she still had no idea to face him. The girl didn’t expect him to come back. Much more here in this time of war.

She shook her head to focus on the task at hand. She needed to stop thinking about him. She had to show him how much she’s grown.

So he won’t be disappointed in her.

(Y/N) gritted her teeth as she took another Delusion from a soldier. Those words still wound her up to this day.

It was disappointing that she hasn’t gotten over it.

“(Y/N)-san, do these weapons really kill us?” One of them asked.

Grimly nodding, she didn’t say anything but “You’ll be fine, just give them to me and go to the infirmary for healing.”

She fumbled with the silver tiny weapons and sat down in the blue-green grass. Embarrassed. That’s how she felt.

Looking up to the sky, up at the clouds she and Tomo used to count, she whispered, “Brother, what do I do now?”

Of course, silence replied.

But it was soon interrupted by shouting.

The (h/c)-haired girl immediately shot up and ran towards the uproar. By the cliffside, a soldier with graying hair refused to hand over his Delusion.

“No!” He shrieked as he threatened to wave it amongst his comrades. “You don’t understand you Vision Holders! You already have all the abilities you need and want!”

Gorou tried to calm him down. “Mitsuki, please listen to me. This Delusion is killing you, we have to get rid of it.”

“Don’t rob people of their hopes and dreams of power.” The black-haired soldier gripped the Delusion even tighter. “How different are you from the Raiden Shogun taking Visions?”

“Well for starters, you’re being selfish at the expense of others,” (Y/N) muttered, face darkening at the man. “Give the damn Delusion.”

“No!” Mitsuki yelled again.

The silver pendant grew a violent shade of purple. It was Electro.

“(Y/N), you calm down too…” Gorou laughed nervously.

But she glared at the soldier, all the pent up emotions swirling within her. “Oi, the Resistance aims to serve as peacekeepers. Are you seriously risking all sorts of danger for something trivial as power?”

She took a step forward, staring right into the scared eyes of the Delusion Holder. “You really think us Vision Wielders have it easy?”

The Captain of Swordfish I used to have a nasty attitude when she first came here. The soldiers then felt relieved that she softened over time, but now, she was starting to emit a dark aura of anger.

Electro sparks crackled in the Delusion. But she didn’t care. Would people seriously give up their lives in exchange for power?

Do people think power is all Vision Holders yearn for? Are lives really worth giving up just for power? She thought of her brother who wanted to do something for the greater good yet died in the hands of someone selfish.

The turmoil within her was getting harder to manage. She wanted to just snatch that Delusion off his person, wanting to just punch him. She wanted to scream.

But someone put a hand on her arm.

Kazuha was tugging her slightly. Concern and sadness was written all over his face. “(Y/N),” He said.

Her breath hitched. Just hearing him say her name--

A smirk in Mitsuki’s mouth caught her eye. He struck the boy and the girl, unstable Electro energy embedded in his polearm.

Time seemed to slow down before Kazuha’s eyes.

This moment before him was a little too similar to what happened a year ago.

The day Tomo was struck with that swift purple electric blade-- The Musou no Hitotachi.

(Y/N) pushed Kazuha away and took the blow.

She fell back, her (h/c) tresses fluttering in the wind, just like how her brother’s ash blonde’s hair did.

It was like a horror movie on repeat.

The young man staggered forward to catch the falling girl. Panicking.

No, no, no. Not this again.

That day where his entire life shattered. (Y/N) fell limp into his arms. She looked like her brother. Hair and clothes singed and burnt.

“Wait. This is wrong!” Kazuha set her to the ground, her head bleeding, spreading to her white kimono. Just like her brother on that day. “No, this is not what I wanted!,” He didn’t know what to do or what to say. Everything was moving too quickly. He felt so overwhelmed.

After detaining Mitsuki, Gorou commanded soldiers to look for Kokomi. He did his best to remain calm but Kazuha’s broken voice nearly made him cry.

“(Y/N)... wait,” He sobbed as he trembled. The blood started staining his hands and that maple leaf haori. “Please, no, please.”

He still held her close as chaos ensued around him. People were scurrying around trying to find a healer. People were trying to drag Mitsuki out. But Kazuha just focused his eyes on (Y/N). His tears fell as he cried uncontrollably.

Her breathing was now faint.

Kazuha was hysterical.

No, he couldn’t lose her again. No. He doesn’t want to lose her through death.

He already lost Tomo. He couldn’t--

A hand caressed his cheek.

Bewildered, he looked at the girl in his arms. Her half-lidded eyes were welling with tears as well.

“I’ll never forgive you.” Those were the last words Tomo whispered.

That was the sentence Kazuha was expecting to hear again.

Instead, she said the same thing she always said. Whether she was sad or angry, if she was in pain or if she was lonely.

“Don’t worry about me,” She whispered. “It’ll be alright. I’m fine.”

How could she say that right now?

But he saw Kokomi running towards them.

“It’s alright now,” (Y/N) managed to smile. Even if she was on the brink of death, she was the one consoling him. Just like before the entire Vision Hunt Decree. As if he never even left her.

But he should be the one telling her everything will be fine. He didn’t want her to worry. So he smiled softly, tears still brimming in his eyes. “I get it,” He rubbed her hand, thumb skimming her knuckles to ease her. “It’s okay now, so just stay quiet. No need to talk.”

She sighed and closed her eyes, resting soundlessly in his arms.

The medical team soon took her away. As much as he didn’t want to, he let her go.

Kazuha needed to let her go. He shouldn’t be by her side. He could never protect her.

Chapter Text

Gorou has been restless for the past few days.

Ever since the situation involving the Fatui was brought to light, everything went downhill. He was losing his soldiers from accelerated aging. The Traveler’s rage got the best of him and left the camp in a hurry. On the other hand, those who were power hungry refused to hand over their Delusions.

Their stubbornness resulted (Y/N) to getting injured from the Delusion. Thankfully, Kokomi arrived just in time to heal her properly. Now, the seamstress was being watched over the Priestess in the temple. Hopefully with Kokomi there, it would ease (Y/N)’s mind off of things.

Now Kazuha was being a dumb motherfucker by not having the audacity to check on her.

Gorou was frustrated. Very frustrated from putting up with their shit as they try to avoid each other.

All they needed was to TALK.

But before Kazuha says some self-deprecating, stupid shit to her again, he needed to set things straight.

Kazuha was not his usual self. He spent an entire week cooped up in a cabin. Sometimes going out to help with the ranks. But that was it. He didn’t play a tune on a leaf, or recite a haiku or two. Sometimes, all he did was stare out to nothingness.

A week has already passed. This was too much. This attitude was killing (Y/N) and Kazuha. Heck, Gorou wasn’t even in this relationship yet he felt like he was going to get a heart attack. So he decided to pay him a visit.

“Why didn’t you visit her?” Gorou asked, glaring at the samurai packing up his things.

Kazuha didn’t say anything but looked back at his bag.

“Gonna run away?” The General snapped. “Again?”

“Say what you want, me being here would just hurt her.” Kazuha mumbled, his things slung over his shoulder. “I can’t protect her. It’s better if you’re with her and Kokomi.”

“I see. So that’s how it is.”

CRASH!

The sound of a wooden snap shook the entire Resistance Camp.

Gorou kicked the samurai across the room, so hard that Kazuha broke the closet door. “You can’t protect her?” He snarled. “What does that mean?”

“Should you be able to catch her before she falls off a cliff?” Gorou continued. “Or brilliantly save her from getting hit by the Musou no Hitotachi? Would that satisfy you?”

Kazuha wiped the blood slowly seeping from the cut he got from the fall and glared at the man ranting in front of him.

But Gorou continued once more. “That’d be impressive. Sure you have a Vision and all, but who do you think you are? Some kind of superhero?”

“Shut up! When did I say that?” The white-haired boy glared and clenched his fists. “Yeah, sure, you’re probably that great.”

“You were able to protect her through thick and thin,” Kazuha ranted. “You can protect her through an explosion! When did I ever protect her? I never did and I never could!”

CRASH!

He was kicked across the room once more.

The brunette was seething in anger. “Kazuha, I didn’t think you were this petty.” He snarled and threw another punch at him. “There was a time I wanted to be you.”

“I admired you and your adept skill with the sword.” He hit Kazuha again. “I was just a flimsy bow user.”

Another punch. “You were great at talking to others while it took me a long time to learn.”

Another hit. “I may have received my Vision earlier, but you had an easier time mastering yours.”

He struck the samurai again, but this time, Kazuha caught his fist.

“Stop looking down on yourself!” Gorou shouted at the wide-eyed boy. But he immediately withdrew his hand away, embarrassed at his own rant. “Kazuha, you’re only you and I’m only me.”

He turned away, not wanting to look at him. “We can only be ourselves, there’s no use of wanting to be someone else. We have to accept ourselves… and face ourselves.”

“YOU DID PROTECT HER.” Gorou gnashed his teeth and punched the wall this time. Kazuha was shocked and stared at the brunette before him.

“Maybe happiness doesn’t mean much… Maybe it’s not like a hero’s superpower… Maybe it’s nothing compared to what a Vision beholds…”

“BUT YOU MADE (Y/N) SMILE WHEN YOU WERE WITH HER! THROUGHOUT ALL THOSE YEARS!” When they finally looked at each other, Kazuha could fully see the fuming face of Gorou. Tears nearly welled in his eyes from frustration. “DO YOU SERIOUSLY THINK I CAN DO THE SAME THING?

“CUT THE CRAP!” Gorou yelled. “GET A CLUE AND REALIZE THERE ARE THINGS ONLY YOU CAN DO.

“DON’T MAKE HER CRY. GET YOUR DAMN ACT TOGETHER!” He finally finished.

Silence stood still. No one spoke a word for a whole minute.

Kazuha was sitting on the wooden floor, stunned.

The brunette man scoffed. “What are you doing? Don’t just sit there. The guy you said you wanted to be just gave you a pep talk.”

That snapped the samurai out of his trance. So he stood up and walked towards the door of the house. Gorou couldn’t bear to see the expression on his friend’s face. Before Kazuha left, he said in a small voice, “Thank you,”

“Things only I can do?” The boy asked himself. So Kazuha left to gather his thoughts one more time before he gave (Y/N) his answer.

Gorou collapsed to the ground, exhausted from the mental toll.

Did his words reach Kazuha? He really hoped it did.

Kazuha had to understand that this game of cat and mouse couldn’t last forever.

One day, all these would have to end. And if Kazuha wanted a good ending from this, he would have to fight for it.

Gorou heard a knock on the door. His eyes lit up to see Kokomi enter the room, concern on her face. “Are you alright? I heard that crash… Did you have some sort of brawl with Kazuha?”

“I feel kind of bad because technically it wasn’t my business,” The brunette laughed. “But I just had to punch reality right at him.”

The Priestess sat beside him. So he closed his eyes and leaned on her. Her presence comforted him. He was thankful she let him rest on her shoulder.

“You fought well,” She whispered and patted his hair.

Gorou’s eyes shot open from her words. He smiled. “Thank you,”

At least he now knew what he helped fight for wasn’t worthless.

Kazuha knew he was a coward.

He was running away again. But this time, he wanted to run towards her. He wanted to hold her in his arms so badly. But he was scared.

But nothing would change if he kept on doing the same thing forever. So he had to make his move.

But what did he want to say to her?

He still couldn’t articulate himself properly. How ironic, coming from someone who loved writing and reading poetry.

Kazuha found himself in a small village on Narukami Island. The breeze felt like a comforting friend at this time of confusion.

His talk with Gorou gave him a bit of a clear mind. He needed to know what to tell (Y/N).

What did he want?

All he knew was that one day, he wanted to leave Inazuma, never to return. Along with (Y/N), hopefully.

It was selfish, but he wanted her to be by his side.

But just his luck, someone interrupted his travels. A couple was walking in the opposite direction. When they crossed paths, the woman dropped her basket.

It was his mother.

And with her was his father.

Chapter Text

Kazuha remembered when he left the Clan four years ago. That was when he became a full-fledged wanderer. Though he had no house to return to, he was always welcome to the home of Tomo and (Y/N).

It was because of Tomo and (Y/N) he had the courage to leave. But never did he ever express his feelings.

After his Clan fell apart, he was ashamed to even look for his family. So he traveled as an excuse to run away.

So he guessed it was time to face his problems.

His father was an older spitting version of him. Except his face was marred with an angered expression.

Kazuha knew his father never forgave him. Without a successor to lead them, the Kaedehara clan fell.

Four years ago

“Why didn’t you meet with your marriage candidates, Kazuha?” His father spat and threw the documents to the table. “You apparently haven’t been showing up to your classes?”

The seventeen nearing eighteen year old son of the Kaedeharas looked down to the tatami mat floor.

He bit his lip to control his raging thoughts. It would be rude to speak against someone older than you, much more if they were your parents.

His mother was watching from the sidelines, a fan on her hand to cover her mouth. But he could see the disappointment etched in her face.

Kazuha knew he was in the wrong, but maybe Tomo was right. The reason why his father tried to control everything he did was because he never spoke up for what he wanted. Though he was always taught that actions spoke louder than words, his parents never saw the signs that they were mentally killing him.

They always said they wanted the best for their son.

So if he said if he wanted to be free--to live the way he wanted, to be himself, they would let him do what he wanted his own way?

Right?

A slap stung his cheek. Kazuha looked up to see his father fuming.

“It’s because of that scoundrel of a seamstress isn’t it?” Kazuha tensed at his father’s words. “And that brother of hers… they’re commoners planting all these pathetic thoughts in your head?”

‘What’s wrong with wanting to do what you love?’ (Y/N) asked him. ‘That’s your reason to wake up every morning, right?’

“Was it that girl who encouraged your delusions?” His father continued.

‘You know, it’s alright to cry sometimes.’ The (h/c)-haired girl beamed at him as she patted his head. ‘Tears show your pain and your fears. What’s wrong with showing you are human?’

“Is it because she was never unperturbed with all your faults and anger? Whenever you run away, she opens her arms to soothe your pain?” His father laughed. “That commoner girl is licentious, don’t you understand she’s trying to seduce you?”

‘You’re happy being poor?’ Kazuha asked her brother one time.

Tomo laughed at his question. ‘Sometimes I wish that wasn’t. But I’m doing everything I can to make my life and (Y/N)’s as comfortable as possible. All you just have to do is look for a silver lining, and you’ll be grateful for what you have.’

“That brother with all his antics,” His father snarled. “No wonder you’ve become immoral as well.”

‘What are you doing…’ Kazuha bit down his question as he sees Tomo ogling some ladies from afar.

The blonde merchant laughed nervously. ‘You didn’t see that.’

The samurai rolled his eyes. ‘I definitely did not want to.’

There was a pause in their conversation, but he dared to ask a question. ‘If you fancy one of those girls, wouldn’t you approach her?’

‘They were just pretty, that’s all.’ Tomo sighed and shook his head. ‘Their personalities aren’t.’

Tomo headlocked Kazuha and teasingly ruffled his white hair. ‘When you love someone for who they are, don’t be afraid to approach them.’

His father finally sighed and shook his head, placing his hand on Kazuha’s head. “Can’t you see son, we’re your family. We will always be by your side. We’re doing all that we can for you because we love you.”

‘You’re letting (Y/N) learn how to use a polearm?’ The two boys were walking side by side as Tomo was traveling to buy goods. ‘I thought you didn’t want her to fight at all?’

His face soured. ‘I don’t want her to. But who am I to stop her from what she wants to do. Once she’s set her mind on something, she won’t budge at all.’

‘Don’t you love her?’ Kazuha suddenly blurted out what his parents always told him. Because his family loves him, they would protect him no matter what. That was what they always reassured. They did the things they did because they loved him.

‘Yes, I do love (Y/N), she’s my only family left after all,’ Tomo replied. ‘I’m always here to help her, to stay by her side. But that doesn’t mean she has to do the things I think is best for her. She is her own person who can decide for herself after all.’ He sighed. ‘Besides, sometimes she still holds a grudge at me for grounding her after she nearly lost her eyesight.’

The juxtaposition of memories and his father’s words at present were putting a toll on his head. Kazuha hunched over, trembling.

His father smoothed his son’s messy hair, soothing him. “Can’t you see it’s only your mother and I who love you. We’re the only ones who understand you.”

SMACK!

It was his father’s turn to feel pain. He opened his eyes to see his son with angered red eyes, his hand raised.

Kazuha just punched his father in the face.

His mother stood up in shock. “How dare you--”

The parents stared at their son’s face, who was sweating profusely. His eyes tinged with horror with the actions he just did.

“Kazuha!” His father shouted.

But their son never returned after that day.

He felt anxious, but he needed closure while he’s got the chance to make it.

Kazuha was in his parents’ small abode. It felt humble but unwelcoming. His father kept glaring daggers at him. His mother was hiding behind the door as if she was scared of her own lost son.

“You really have some nerve, setting foot near both of us without an ounce of guilt on your face, huh?” His father snarled, not batting an eye to his son. He let out a hoarse cough, signalling that his health was failing.

Kazuha couldn’t look at his father either. But his line of sight fell on tons of wine bottles on the table. “Should you really be drinking at this age?”

His father was at a loss for words. “No, I’m fine.”

“I bet you’re not working--”

“Shut up!” His father yelled. “I’m working hard! I’m just… taking a vacation because I haven’t been feeling well. And who’s fault is that?” He pointed at the boy.

Kazuha’s face fell and looked to the sidelines. “You think it’s mine.”

“You bet I do!” He screamed and gripped one of the bottles. “So how about you finally admit that you destroyed this family! You were the one who brought the end upon the Kaedeharas.”

His father continued berating him.

I feel sick. Kazuha thought as he hung his head low. Just like that night of the fight. It’s as if all these emotions, like hatred, fear, and grief, got tossed into a pot and boiled like stew.

Kazuha stood clenched his fists. I have to get my act together.

“It’s my fault.” He finally said, his white bangs covering his eyes.

His father gasped from his son’s acknowledgement. He laughed in ecstasy. “He finally admitted it! He finally said it!”

He pointed a finger at his wife, watching their conversation. “You heard it right? Call the Kujou Clan! Turn this boy in as well! He can stay jailed for this crime for the rest of his life! They’ll take anyone with a Vision, so that’s hitting two birds with one stone!”

His mother panicked, not knowing what to do. But the venomous glint in her husband’s eyes scared her, so she left the house to go to the Tenryou Commission.

As his father laughed, small words interrupted his victory.

“I refuse.” His father looked at him, stupefied. “I won’t go to some measly prison. I’ll live outside, I’ll travel outside.”

Finally, Kazuha looked at his father’s face. “I came here to tell you that.”

Finally, Kazuha said what he wanted to do to his father. He wasn’t going to let him control his life again.

Finally, Kazuha found his answer. “There’s someone I want to be with. Forever, from now on...”

“No.” His father suddenly looked senile, his eyes were wide as if he was deranged. “What are you talking about? You’re unforgivable. You? Live normally? I will never forgive you!”

He suddenly threw a glass at his son. Glass shattered around Kazuha’s feet, but he stood his ground.

But those words made him shake slightly.

“Do you know how badly I’ve been shamed?” His father ranted on. “How has my life's been wrecked? It’s because that girl stepped into our estate and twisted your mind. I told her to get out, she was being a burden to you becoming the perfect heir. She nearly backed off but damn that woman didn’t listen! Because of her, you did this!”

A burden… The words echoed in his head.

“Kazuha,” She flicked his forehead that immediately vanished his negative thoughts. The fireworks bloomed behind her. “Don’t be mad if I keep dragging you behind.”

So he smiled at her, reassuring her that everything would be alright. “I won’t be disappointed in you. Ever.” He said.

Suddenly, those words she kept telling him and her brother made sense.

“I don’t want to be a burden to my brother,” She wiped the sweat off her forehead, steadied her stance, and fixed her grip on her weapon. “That’s why I’ve got to learn how to fight. Don’t go easy on me, Kazuha.”

Did his father… seriously tell her that?

Anger bubbled within him. But Kazuha knew there was no use in being violent.

His father grabbed him by the haori’s collar, the same haori she made Kazuha years ago. “You think you're allowed to live? Because of your mistake, I’m in this mess. I’m too old to change.”

The boy took his father’s wrist and held him away. “Then stay that way.”

There are people who will just stay the same. There are people who chase eternity because of the past. But as time ticks away, everything will soon change.

The Kaedehara Clan was already bound to fall. But it just fell a little earlier because Kazuha was being a brat.

His father was clinging on to fix something that was already broken beyond repair.

The death of Tomo was something he could never fix. He needed to let go.

But Kazuha still had some mistakes that he could still mend.

“Stay that way.” He repeated as his father stumbled back, taking his hand back from his son’s grip. “But I’m going.”

The answer and method are both simple. So simple… but difficult as hell to understand.

Though he had highs and lows through the journey of finding the solution, he finally had his answer.

Finally, Kazuha knew what he wanted. There was no point dwelling on regret. That’s exactly why he had to treasure what he had now. Before it was too late.

He sighed and turned around. His father was still unreasonable as ever, but maybe he could still try to maintain the bonds between his family once again. Even if that bond was a fragile single thread, he was still their son.

Instead of running away, he’ll confront them. He’ll make them listen to him.

Kazuha walked away. “I’ll visit again.”

He could hear his father’s screams. “Oi! Wait! I won’t allow this! I’ll never forgive you!”

The boy could finally breathe properly as soon as he stepped out of that suffocating house.

I wish I could’ve lived my life without any missteps along the way. He thought as he trudged further and further away. But he scoffed. But that’s not humanly possible.

We fail, we stumble, we get lost. But we just have to keep walking the path anyway, one step at a time. He left the forest until his parents’ house was just a tiny speck in the distance. We have to walk on our own two feet, even if it hurts so much.

We have to move towards something.

Or that someone at our destination.

That’s when Kazuha found himself sprinting. He had to get back to Watatsumi Island.

Time to say a prayer and start going.

He ran like crazy. By the time he reached Yashiori Island, it was nightfall. He was panting as he boarded the Resistance’s boat to the camp. He had a hard time breathing, but he had to go.

He needed to see (Y/N).

But…

After what I said… will she still accept me?

As he reached Watatsumi, the night suddenly reminded him of that rainy day in Fort Fujitou. That fateful day one year ago. He remembered her broken appearance as he said those words to her.

And me… Do I still really love her?

He stopped his sprint as soon as he reached the Resistance camp. He clutched his shirt, looking down in doubt.

Why do I love her?

He then sees Gorou and Kokomi walking out of the infirmary, calling onto someone inside. Alarmed, he followed their line of sight to see someone walking out.

How much do I…

Their eyes met once again.

He could finally see her face. Her (h/c) hair, her familiar white yukata swaying in the wind.

None of that matters.

He looked at her beautiful (e/c) eyes which were wide in shock.

I love her. I love her. I just love her… like crazy.

“(Y/)-”

The girl shrieked and ran away.

Kokomi, Gorou, and Kazuha stared in disbelief at the direction she ran. The samurai’s mouth was agape.

“She ran like a bat out of hell.” He muttered. That felt like a bullet to his chest.

Gorou rolled his eyes at the stupefied Kazuha. “No choice but to laugh.” He said in deadpan. “I’d like to laugh until my belly hurts.”

But Kazuha clenched his fists and began running. “Damn it, I’m the faster runner here!” He yelled as he tried to pick up his pace.

I won’t let you go.

“Seriously!” He tried to shout as loud so she could hear him. “You shouldn’t be running the second you get out of the hospital!”

The General and the Priestess smiled softly as they watched the samurai chase the girl he loves.

Chapter Text

As the (h/c)-haired girl took her first steps out of the medical ward, she was greeted by Gorou and Kokomi. “(Y/N), the three of us are here to escort you back to your room.”

She tilted her head. “You three? What do you mean…”

(Y/N) turned to the right to see him. The man of her dreams. The man she dreaded to see. The man she was in love with…

She stared at Kazuha. Just looking at his face made her feel… anxious.

She tried to hold back the tears.

“(Y/N), I-” He began.

But she didn’t want to hear it. She couldn’t hear him reject her again.

So she yelped and ran.

Her legs started moving before she realized she was running as fast as she could.

How odd. This isn’t right. This is not what I planned. She thought as she crossed the bridges to climb the cliff stairs.

(Y/N) slowed down near a pillar to catch her breath. When I saw him again, I told myself I--

In a flash, he was there, cutting her path. He held the pillar to block her way. Kazuha was out of breath as well. “(Y-Y/N)?”

The girl stared at him and those beautiful vermillion eyes. I had a plan…

She shrieked again and pushed him away. Sprinting backwards this time.

Two soldiers on patrol quickly brushed past the samurai. “Did he get dumped?” One whispered.

“He definitely did.” The second whispered back.

Kazuha paid no attention to them. He gripped the pole tighter, determined to catch up to her.

This is no good. (Y/N)’s thoughts were a jumbled mess. I already understand that he doesn’t want me by his side.

She remembered how Gorou came to visit her during her recovery. “If you need anything, just say the word, okay?”

(Y/N) nodded and smiled. “Yes, but don’t worry, I’m fit as a fiddle.”

The brunette general looked away for a while. “Listen, about Kazuha, he’s...”

Gorou turned to see tears welling in her eyes.

The girl blinked, realizing the tears were falling. She smacked her head again and again. “I’m sorry!”

He panicked, sweating profusely. “No, stop! Your head!”

But then she forced a smile. “I-Is everything alright at Sangonomiya? Did you manage to confiscate the Delusions?”

Gorou stared at her, not knowing how to answer her.

“How’s the squadrons? Are they doing well without me for supply runs?”

He could still see a single tear rolling down her cheek.

My chest hurts. She thought. But she still kept running.

“I’m disappointed in you.”

His voice replayed in her head countless times. And he told her that a year ago.

She had a year to move on. But... It hurts. It still hurts so much.

Just hearing his name was like a dagger to her chest.

When no one was there to monitor her, (Y/N) would stand by the window to watch the sunset.

She gripped the window sill. “Smile,” She demanded to her reflection. She had to get over it. There was no use dwelling over it. That’s what she told the Traveler, wasn’t it?

“Smile,” She repeated. “Or else I’ll just be causing everyone unnecessary trouble.”

Even Kazuha…

“This is not acceptable.” She muttered and gripped the wooden sill harder. “Smile… smile… smile.” But the tears betrayed her and fell.

(Y/N) decided that she would just smile the next time she saw him. She even did some pathetic training to prevent any mistakes… but it was all wasted. All she did was run away the moment she saw the boy she loved so much.

Her (h/c) hair was matted on her forehead as she hunched over to catch her breath by a bench near the sea. It’s no good. Why am I acting like this even though I decided it would be fine if I’m not by his side?

The brush of sand interrupted her thoughts. Her (e/c) eyes widened as she met his red ones. He was there, meters away from her.

(Y/N) was about to stand but her legs gave in. She was too tired to run.

So she covered her face. Even if he left me a year ago, why do I still feel so sad?

Tears started falling again. She was so mad at herself for acting like a baby. He couldn’t see her like this. “P-please wait a little while,” She stuttered, trying to wipe her face. “I-I’ll be ready in a minute!”

She could hear his footsteps get louder. So she turned away in panic.

Stop, tears, stop!

I don’t want him to upset him. I don’t want him to hate me.

I don’t want him to--

Kazuha finally took her hand to show him her crying self.

I don’t want him to be more disappointed in me.

But she saw his face filled with fatigue, worry, and sadness.

The man kneeled in front of her in the sand. “I was completely selfish, wasn’t I?” He finally spoke to her. After a whole year.

“I just confessed to you my own sins and said anything I wanted to say,” He placed his hand on top of hers to prevent her from covering her face again. “And I completely ignored your feelings.”

Kazuha looked down at his clothing; at the maple leaf haori she made him long ago. “And then I ran even though I knew that sometimes in this world, you never get the chance to see someone again to apologize.”

Guilt washed over him. “I thought I knew that was the best for you.”

Before she protested, he interrupted her.

“I’m sorry for making you cry. I’m sorry for hurting you.” He whispered and intertwined his fingers with hers. “This will be my last time. Will you give me one more chance?”

Kazuha still couldn’t look at her directly but he spoke with all his heart. He needed his sincerity to reach her. “I want to be with you. If I’m going to keep living, I want to do it with you.”

Finally he looked up at (Y/N), right at her beautiful (e/c) eyes. “You’re the one I want to be with because… I love you.”

Her eyes widened in shock.

Kazuha immediately looked away, unsure of how to continue.

“So… that means you’ll let me stay by your side?” (Y/N)’s voice wavered slightly. “I-I can hold your hand, and be with you?”

He smiled warmly. “You’re already holding it.”

She gasped as she let the tears fall. She couldn’t believe her ears. Even if it’s been said thousands of times… even if it’s a worn-out cliche…

This really is like a dream.

He kissed her. Fireworks exploded in his stomach as he held her. He didn’t want to let her go.

The wind had to go to other places to be free.

The wind had no home.

After he broke the kiss he hugged her tight.

Yet with her in his arms, he felt like he had a place to belong.

(Y/N) was still frozen, unable to comprehend what was going on. Her joyous eyes shone brighter than ever, yet part of her was scared this was all just reality playing a cruel joke on her.

Kazuha caressed her head, he stroked her (Y/N) hair to calm her down.

Finally she looked up at him. “You’re real, right? This isn’t a figment of my imagination?”

“Yes,” He rubbed the knuckles on the hand he was holding and lightly kissed it. “I’ll never let you go again.”

She buried her face in his arms but punched him lightly. “I missed you so much.”

“I know.”

“I hate you so much for that.”

“I know.”

“But I can’t still bring myself to tell you I hated you for everything.” (Y/N) sobbed.

The two stayed like that for a while. After they were far apart for so long, after they tried so hard to avoid each other, they found themselves turning around to run back.

To run back in hopes of reuniting one day.

(Y/N)’s (e/c) eyes met Kazuha’s crimson ones. They smiled softly at each other.

Just for this moment, they felt the weight of the world eased off their shoulders. Though they would never know what the future holds, they’ll turn around and walk the long endless road together, never parting.

Chapter Text

Two days have passed. It was night again. Everything felt surreal.

Though she was supposed to be patrolling the perimeter, (Y/N) was sitting on a tree branch. Beside her was Kazuha, leaning on her shoulder, bathed in the moonlight. He has gone through a lot. Maybe much more hardships than what she’s been through. But she was happy that he managed to pull through.

She felt bad sometimes. But there was no point to regret. She decided that she would be more than a footnote in Kazuha’s life. She will stay by his side now that he is with her.

The boy stirred in his sleep. “Kazuha, our shift is almost over. We can go now.” She whispered.

He shook his head, burying her face in her neck. “I’m fine here.”

(Y/N) chuckled softly, stroking her fingers on his silky white hair. Her other hand took his bandaged one, intertwining his fingers with hers. “When did you get this?”

She could feel his body tense. But he sighed and answered her anyway. “That day in Tenshukaku, I managed to snatch his dying Vision. I burnt my hand as soon as I touched it.”

He sat up straight and rummaged through his kimono pockets. Kazuha brought out a brass Inazuman Vision Shell. It had the mark of Electro, yet it was all hollow and gray.

The ex-seamstress gingerly took her brother’s Vision. Just its touch sparked a memory.

“What are you doing?” Going out of their cabin, (Y/N) from a year ago asked her brother. The two sought refuge with the Resistance. Her brother was brandishing his sword.

“I have an appointment.” Tomo answered briskly.

“With who?”

“You don’t want to know.” He sighed. He patted her (h/c) hair and left his hand a little too long on her head.

“What’s wrong?” His sister asked, tilting her head in confusion. “Be honest with me.”

He immediately retracted his hand away. “Some Vision Hunters are just being a pain in the ass. I challenged them to a duel to show them who’s the boss around here.”

She stared at him in horror. “Why?”

“I’m the stronger one, don’t worry.” He grinned and pointed at himself. “Stop frowning, you’ll get wrinkles.”

The girl didn’t want to doubt her brother, but she couldn’t help but feel uneasy.

“I’ll come back home.” He smiled at her. So she grinned back.

Tomo never did return. That was the day he lost his life.

But now he was back. His spirit was here. His Vision may have lost its glow, but his ambition to stop the Decree shone brighter than ever.

“Thank you,” She mumbled, trying to hold back her tears. “For bringing him home.”

There might be still a lingering feeling of regret and remorse for not being able to stop the duel in time within him. So she had to reassure the boy she was grateful for what she has at present.

But he still looked disappointed. “What’s wrong?” She asked.

Kazuha shrugged. “I was slightly hoping you managed to light this Vision again. To never let his dream die.”

“Face the other way,” She told him and he complied.

(Y/N) held the sash that held Kazuha’s Anemo Vision. Then, she clipped Tomo’s right below his. “If anyone could ignite this again, I think it would be you, Kazuha. Your ambition shines brightly too.”

He still looked uncertain, so he changed the topic, his red eyes flitting to the pin in her hair. “You tried to abandon yours?”

(Y/N) nodded slowly. “I thought I had no more hopes and dreams. So what was the point of a Vision when I thought that I was a bur—”

She stopped herself. She thought she suppressed that memory. She told herself she would never speak that out loud again.

“I’m sorry for my father’s words.” He mumbled. “You’re not a burden, I’m forever grateful you stayed by my side.”

Kazuha let his hand stroke her cheek to wipe her tears away. “You look beautiful under the moonlight. Have I ever told you you looked like an angel?”

Immediately, all her negative thoughts vanished and were replaced with embarrassed mental screaming. Sometimes she forgot how smooth this man was with words.

“I-uh-” She stuttered.

A bell’s ring unfortunately ruined their moment. The two whipped their heads towards the sound. “What’s going on?” (Y/N) was still a flustered mess as she craned her head to look at the Camp.

She might’ve leaned too far back to make her lose her balance.

Before a yelp could escape her lips, a gust of wind caressed her hair and she fell into Kazuha’s arms.

Just like how he caught her in their first encounter years ago.

She pushed him away in embarrassment. “ANYWAYS, WE GOTTA GO.”

The two of them reached Sangonomiya Shrine, in which the entire camp was in a disarray. “Kokomi, what’s wrong?” She asked the Priestess.

The pink-haired girl sighed. “The Resistance in Fort Fujitou acted on its own. They’re planning to strike Tenshukaku tomorrow. We need to intercept them before too many get harmed.”

(Y/N) wondered how Kazuha must feel to return to Tenshukaku. She was worried about him, but she realized she should worry about herself.

The place where her brother died. That made her anxious. Every foot nearer to her old home made her scared.

By the time they reached Yashiori Island, they were too late to stop the camp. So their only option was to storm the front before things got out of hand.

When they reached Inazuma City, (Y/N) froze.

But Kazuha rested his hand on hers, reassuring the girl there was nothing to worry about. They had each other to support. She wasn’t alone anymore.

He led her along the pathway, they walked through those familiar streets she grew up in. It didn’t emit the same lively aura as it did in the past. The sky was dark and cloudy, the town was deserted. People were cowering indoors as the Fort Fujitou’s soldiers were attacking the Doushin stationed around.

That’s when she charged, summoning her polearm imbued with Hydro, spinning thin threads of water to lash out on their opponents. She didn’t kill them this time, but it was forceful enough to knock them out.

Kazuha was doing his usual sword art with his weapon diffused with Anemo. He swirled the guards together for (Y/N) to strike.

It was their first time fighting together. She better keep up her appearance to show him how much she’s grown for the past year.

“You’re doing well,” The samurai commented as he parried a blow from the Doushin. “You aren’t handling that weapon as flimsily as I remembered.”

The (h/c)-haired girl flicked her head back at the boy and scoffed. “I had to adapt and evolve. Or else I would’ve died on the battlefield.”

She struck a man sneaking up on Kazuha. “And you, Mr. Veteran, shouldn’t you stop your chit-chat and focus on the fight up ahead.”

“You look mesmerizing when you’re focused, you’ve been occupying my mind a lot recently.” He admitted, smiling slyly as he jabbed another soldier away.

“STOP FLIRTING!” Gorou yelled as he shot down a Doushin with his bow and arrow. “PLEASE!”

The two laughed but continued to fight their way up to Tenshukaku.

Just as they reached the steps to the entrance, they saw the Traveler and his companion exiting. His face was in a daze.

As soon as he stepped out of the gates, space and time seemed to rip apart by a purple flash.

Everything seemed to slow down.

The Musou no Hitotachi struck down on the blonde man.

This was the third time Kazuha has seen this scene before his eyes.

The first was with Tomo.

The second was with (Y/N).

Though he may not know the Traveler as much as he did with the siblings, he couldn’t just watch again. He didn’t deserve to die.

Kazuha wasn’t going to run away this time. He remembered those exact words Tomo said to him.

There will always be those who dare brave the lightning’s glow.

Power surged within his body. Without thinking, he lunged forward to parry the blade that killed his dear friend.

(Y/N) was frozen once again. Her brother’s Vision has ignited once more. She watched in worry and awe. Was she anxious? Scared? Confused?

No, she was far from that. She was elated. Kazuha’s hopes of lighting Tomo’s ambition have been fulfilled.

However, he was still up against the Archon of Eternity. The Raiden Shogun’s was unwavered by the boy holding off her attack, so she pushed further.

But both Anemo and Electro Visions glowed brighter. Kazuha released a slash of wind imbued with electricity.

Everyone was shocked. Even the Raiden Shogun herself was surprised as she stumbled from his blow. But that didn’t stop her. She glared at the samurai and lunged again with Kazuha barely able to recover.

“Kazuha!” (Y/N) yelled as the boy was sent flying back. He managed to regain his footing, his blade scraping the floor to slow down his fall. But alas, her brother’s Vision fell off his person, losing its glow once more.

“Attack!” The soldiers cried as they charged in unison.

“No, don’t!” The seamstress was horrified to see mere mortal soldiers challenge a goddess.

Her eyes met with the Traveler’s; her worried expression sent him a message of help. Aether nodded, charging right at the Narukami Ogosho.

A giant Electro sword slashed right at the Archon. And then, they were gone.

Before anyone could retreat in confusion, a soldier’s shoulder blade was pierced by an arrow. Apparently, the Shogun’s Army was retaliating.

“Retreat!” Gorou ordered, but no one listened to them.

All three of them cursed as they barely dodged the missiles aimed at them. (Y/N) climbed up the rooftops and summoned her power to flick their opponents down.

The boys couldn’t stand there and watch her do all the work, so they had to incapacitate the Shogun’s Army before things went out of hand.

Honestly, the Resistance should be lucky that (Y/N) was holding in her frustration. If she was still in a bad mood, she would have left them to die.

Anyways.

She was proud of how far she’s come as she easily defended herself and her side from their enemies. This reminded her of how she gruesomely massacred soldiers last year. But now, she had no intent to kill. Nothing will be accomplished if she took someone’s life.

A cry of pain alerted her.

Kazuha was struck by a man sniping from afar.

You fucking bastard. (Y/N) snarled and ran as fast as she could to reach the soldier’s altitude to knock him out.

She landed back down to the battle and glared at one of the resisting soldiers. “Retreat.”

The man nearly disobeyed. “You really think a seamstress like you would--”

He didn’t finish his sentence. The murderous glare in her (e/c) spoke a thousand words. The soldier yelped in fright and dragged his comrades out of the battle with him.

As the numbers of soldiers from the Resistance were thinning, (Y/N) began to search for Kazuha, who had hidden under the wooden scaffolding under the Statue.

“Are you alright?” She jumped down and nearly tripped on her face as she ran towards him.

“Better than ever,” He muttered as he tried to sit up straight. His red eyes were drooping, signalling he was nearly losing consciousness.

“Stay with me!” She panicked, ripping a sleeve off her kimono to stop the bleeding on his arm.

He laughed weakly. “Don’t worry, I won’t die.”

“How could you be so sure?” (Y/N) clung onto him, holding him closer than ever.

Kazuha wiped the frantic tears from her eyes. “It’s because I have a beloved person still in this world.” He caressed her cheek, and smiled that familiar soft smile she always knew. “I pray to never rest in peace if your beloved person found out you couldn’t rest in peace because of them.”

She stifled a sniffle from words. “You better keep your word.”

“I will.” He whispered, kissing her forehead. “I will. I made a promise long ago I would look after you. So I’ll make my own promise to live for you as well.”

Chapter Text

(Y/N) was embarrassed.

Kazuha was alright by the next day. Apparently, his wound was “trivial” as compared to many of his past battles.

The girl was wailing over nothing. She was coddling him like a baby when he was definitely just fine.

“What’s wrong?” Kazuha asked innocently as he sat beside her in the otogi tree branch.

She punched his wounded arm, to which he flinched. “I hate you.”

He feigned hurt. “Really? After all we’ve been through? After I told you I love you?”

She scoffed and flicked his forehead this time. “Yes,”

He laughed at her pouts and placed his good arm around her shoulder. “Finally, we’re free, huh?”

After the battle yesterday, the Traveler managed to change the Raiden Shogun’s mind. As someone who was so set on constructing her idea of eternity, (Y/N) wondered how the duo managed to do it.

So she and Kazuha were just resting on a tree branch, just like back then, relieved that the war was finally over.

But still (Y/N) felt unsatisfied.

“What’s wrong?” The boy asked, noticing her tensed body.

“Well…” Her voice faltered.

Were the people of Inazuma just let it go? Would they just easily forgive their tyrant of an Archon?

“How does a mortal impose a consequence on a god?” She queried her lover.

He didn’t answer. Perhaps he was stumped as she was.

“Do you hate her? The Raiden Shogun?” She tried to shift the topic.

“I've asked myself this question many times since leaving Inazuma. Do I simply resent the Raiden Shogun because of what happened in that duel?” Kazuha sighed and shook his head. “I've thought about this a good long time, and I believe the answer is no. My friend died an honorable death in that duel, and the Shogun was not unjustified in her conduct.

“However, my dissatisfaction stems from the Decree. No one has the right to rob another of their hopes and dreams — not even a god.”

“I think so too,” She fumbled with their intertwined fingers. “To be honest, it was hard to understand my brother’s wishes, but alas, I’ve learned to forgive him.”

“Have you ever… hated me when I left?” Kazuha’s voice was suddenly timid.

“I may have felt bitter, but no,” (Y/N) admitted and smiled. “I can never really hate you, huh?”

Kazuha grinned back and kissed her forehead. “That was reassuring to hear.” But he let her go and jumped down to land on the grass. “Sorry but, I have to get back to Watatsumi right now. Do you have anything left in your home in Hanamizaka?”

(Y/N) looked at her old family house under the giant sakura tree in the city. “Mhm, there’s something I still need to do.”

The house was still the same. A new family was living within it, but they happily allowed (Y/N) to look for some old possessions left behind.

Asides from the Vision, the only thing she had left was his purple scarf. Ayaka managed to get the discarded cloth before it was discarded into trash.

It was dusty now from being left unattended for a year. The ends were frayed from the strike of the Musou no Hitotachi. She needed to fix this.

So she left their house and went back to her old master. Ogura Mio was shocked to see how much older the (h/c)-haired girl was, despite being gone for a year. The two caught up and told each other stories. Before (Y/N) went to her last stop, her master gave her a small sewing kit.

“Take it,” The woman gave a parting gift to her apprentice. “In case you ever wanted to pursue sewing again.”

(Y/N) was now wearing the frayed scarf of her brother as she approached Tenshukaku one more time. But she told herself she would fix the ends another time. She would use the needle once again, sewing was her passion after all.

There was a rally at the entrance of the Raiden Shogun’s home. The girl had to push through the crowd to see their ruler standing by there.

But the mob soon quieted down to see the seamstress from the Resistance slowly made her way up the steps.

How does a mortal impose a consequence on a god? She asked herself again.

(Y/N) slapped the Archon.

On the face.

Everyone gasped. The Doushin soldiers were about to lunge their weapons, but the Raiden Shogun raced her hand to signal them to stop.

(Y/N) never felt more satisfied. “I have lost all respect for you, as our leader. And I am afraid that I may never see you as one ever again.”

The crowd nodded in agreement as they glared at the purple-haired Archon.

“You may have abolished the Decree, but that will never fix the damage you've inflicted on all of us.” The girl continued, still keeping a strong stance before the glowering woman. “I understand you killed my brother because he lost the duel and according to tradition, the victors will always gain a second chance. But I can never forgive you for robbing all the ambitions of the people that could’ve helped you chase the eternity you longed for.”

The Raiden Shogun’s emotionless eyes studied the girl before her. She still didn’t say anything but this implied she was actually listening.

“But their dreamless days are now over. Nothing lasts forever. Things ought to change.” (Y/N) gave the Archon a pained smile. “You must work to regain your people’s respect. One day, the nation would thrive again as it did before.”

The girl shook her head. “There may be other people who would want to leave as well. I don’t want to be part of it.”

“So you may,” The Shogun whispered, accepting the girl’s decision.

With that, (Y/N) bowed and turned on her heel. The purple scarf fluttering within the wind from her neck.

“Curse that wanderer for wandering.” (Y/N) grumbled as she reached the Resistance Camp at night. Apparently, Kazuha just left for the Kamisato Estate. She unfortunately missed his departure.

She decided to first rest her feet in her cabin. She tried to keep her hands busy by fixing her brother’s scarf.

The seamstress stared at the purple fabric in her hands and smiled as she held the needle again for the first time in a while.

It took longer than usual, but she eventually stitched the fraying ends to make it look new.

(Y/N) left the cabin to go look for her lover.

Gorou and Kokomi were sitting by the shrine, chatting happily and having some tea.

“What are you going to do after all this?” She asked the now former General.

“I’ll still stay here, don’t worry.” The brunette looked at the scenery before him. “I plan to help the soldier’s recuperate from all the traumatizing things they might have experienced.” But he clicked his tongue in annoyance. “AFTER I take a break. Kazuha and (Y/N) gave me too much of a headache. And the siege in Tenshukaku too.”

Kokomi lightly laughed and set her teacup on the table. “Was it all worth it in the end?”

“For the greater good, yes, but for me? No.” He groaned and leaned his head on the table. “How about you?”

“I still have to look after the Shrine just as my family wanted to,” The Priestess sighed. “Governing is really not my forte.”

“Well how about I take that up for you.” He said absentmindedly.

But a second passed and Gorou realized what he just uttered. Taking up her family tradition... that was implying he was proposing...

“I’LL HELP YOU. THAT’S WHAT I MEANT.” He avoided her gaze.

She smiled warmly, unfazed by his outburst. “If you ever change your mind, Sangonomiya will always welcome you.”

“I’m fine with staying here forever,” He mumbled.

She chuckled and patted his head to let him rest. “Well, I wouldn’t mind that either.”

Chapter Text

He wasn’t surprised that he found her, but rather because she was wearing her old hydrangea kimono, a newly repaired purple scarf that belonged to her brother, and the flower kanzashi that he gave her.

Kazuha and (Y/N) were standing before Tomo’s grave once more. As soon as the girl unclasped her hands from prayer, her lover looked up at the sky and his surroundings, afraid to meet her eyes.

“I decided that even though the Vision Hunt Decree is over now, I want to leave here.” He whispered.

She looked at him, but she wasn’t surprised.

“No, I’m not running away again. I feel confined within Inazuma even though we’re already free.” The white-haired samurai continued. “Nearly my whole life, I have wanted to wander around the entire land, anywhere. And I want to travel… with you, if you’re fine with that.”

He couldn’t see the expression on her face. She didn’t answer him immediately, which made him panic slightly.

“When you leave here, where would you go?” She asked slowly, as if she were carefully choosing her words.

Kazuha turned back to look at the sea. “Beidou was kind enough to let me stay with her and the Crux. And after a few months, who knows? I usually just go with where the wind will take me.”

He took a step away from the grave, a wistful gleam on crimson eyes. “I will work while I travel so I will have enough money for a living. Maybe it will soon be enough to settle down in a house so I’ll have somewhere to return to.”

In that moment, Kazuha imagined seeing him return to their home in who knows where. As he raises his hands to greet her, she waves back with a gentle smile, her wedding ring glinting in the sunlight.

“I know I sound young and naive saying this.” He immediately snapped himself out of that daydream and turned back at her, wanting to be sincere this time, even if she kept staring at the ground. “It would mean taking you away from the people you love. I would understand if you don’t want to--”

“Yes,”

(Y/N) looked up with her (e/c) eyes to see the blushing face of her beloved. “You don’t need to worry about it.”

She smiled warmly. “My brother had always wanted to travel out of the nation with you. He loved hearing your dreams and eagerness to see the world. He wanted you to fulfill your aspirations.”

(Y/N) held his hands. “All your stories made him happy. It made me happy, so yes, I would love to go with you.”

She grinned playfully. “Guess this maple leaf won't be lonely anymore.”

Kazuha blinked, shocked with her answer without giving much thought. “Wait, what? You don’t mind? We’ll be going far away! You won’t be able to see Gorou, Kokomi, and your friends for a very long time!”

He took his hands back and glanced away, embarrassed. “Also… we might be very poor…”

(Y/N) frowned slightly. “You’re the one who wanted me to go with you.”

Kazuha rubbed his neck sheepishly. “T-true. But if you need time to think, then I’ll understand. And if you don’t want to come, you can say so-”

“You should know that I’m really stubborn.” The (h/c)-haired girl laughed at his words. “Believe it or not, I stick to what I want, especially if it’s important to me.”

“True…” He said again and sweatdropped. “Well, I guess you are-”

“That’s right, then I’ll decide for myself.” (Y/N) walked closer to where her brother was buried, her face solemn this time. “So I’m going to disagree with you about one thing.”

“Brother doesn’t bear a grudge on you.” She said, Though her back was facing him, he could hear the promptness in her voice. “Even if he really did say he would never forgive you that day, he didn’t say it out of hatred. This is what I believe and what I’ll stick to.”

“I’m going with you, Kazuha.”

The boy stared at her under the peeking sun, listening intently to her sincere words.

“Yes, I’ll be sad to leave everyone, and the City I was born in.” She continued. “But being apart from you will make me sadder.

“I want to be with you, by your side. Always. I don’t want to be apart from you. I don’t want to wait for you.”

(Y/N) finally looked back at him, a determined sheen on her (e/c) eyes. “So please, take me with you.” She stretched out her hand, waiting for him to take it.

He was stunned by her words, by her beauty, by everything. Though this was an overwhelming answer he did not expect to hear. But he knew he shouldn’t run away. Not when (Y/N) was there with him.

Kazuha took a step forward to reach out to her. He held her close and kissed her forehead. “Thank you,” He whispered.

“I am taking her with me, are you good with that?” The boy looked at the lone sword; the grave of Tomo, her brother. “I will keep my promise, don’t you worry.”

He chuckled, slightly embarrassed. “I know I’m a year late, but I promise I will protect her for life.”

(Y/N) trembled from his hold, eyes nearly welling with tears as he led her out to their new life. Together.

No, no. What should I do?

Why can't I hear anything? I can’t feel pain either.

Why? No, no, no. This can’t be happening.

It’s no good, (Y/N)...

I think I’m going to die.

Tomo tried to open his eyes. He could barely make out his surroundings. Did he lose the duel? Damn it, how stupid of him to think he could actually win?

He remembered the day prior he challenged the Vision Hunters. If he won, they would leave him and his sister alone.

That was the plan...

What should I do?

The noise around him was a blur.

I don’t want this. I don’t want to die! (Y/N)... Leaving her alone is the worst kind of unfair!

“Protect her, Tomo.” Those were the last words his parents spoke to them as they passed away, as (Y/N) cried to see their lives slipping away from their fingers.

He held back his tears. “I will, I definitely will.”

Their mother finally rested with a peaceful smile on her face.

But I broke our promise… If I’m gone, what will happen to her?

He recalled the day when she was seven, who greeted him with sleepy eyes after a long day of merchant’s work. “Brother, Ogura-san taught me how to weave. I would be able to help you earn a living now!”

Tomo clicked his tongue in disappointment. “I’m supposed to be the one taking care of you, and you currently have a fever!” He exclaimed in dismay as he pressed his hand on her forehead.

She grinned toothily. “But I can’t let you be the only one who’s doing the hard work. I don’t want to be a burden. One day, I want to travel around with you!”

He smiled. Though he was just a teen, (Y/N) gave him hope and motivation to go do his job everyday.

She’s barely an adult… She’s still young… She’s still…

Tomo stared at his bloodied hand and tried to blink away his tears. Mother, Father, I think I get it now.

Leaving is as bad as being left. They both hurt, huh?

He appreciated the ruckus around him. It kept him awake… just for a little while. The electrifying effects of the Musou no Hitotachi still kept his mind running.

Sorry.

Tomo recalled the day where she completed her first haori.

I’m so sorry, (Y/N).

Tomo remembered the day when she got into her first fight with bullies.

Did I love you enough?

He could clearly see the day when she got a cut from his sword. He apologized to her again and again until she was smiling like always.

(Y/N), I wanted to love you so much more.

The bitter scent of lemons lingered in his nose as he and his sister shared a glass of juice. They both cringed from the sourness and laughed at each others’ crooked faces.

Someone… Someone please protect her.

He remembered that lonely smile when he had to leave her behind. After she nearly lost her sight on her left eye. He had to. He didn’t want her to get hurt again.

But he didn’t want her to be sad anymore.

Tomo tried to angle his head up, to look for any familiar face from the swarming crowd of bystanders.

Please... please protect her!

And that’s when Tomo saw him.

That boy who (Y/N) always told stories about. Nearly every day since she was thirteen.

The white-haired boy was horrified to see his dear friend in a pool of blood, the acrid scent of thunder upon his body.

Kazuha, please, do you remember your promise?

He remembered the day Kazuha was relentlessly searching for her when (Y/N) was lost in the mountains. She returned without a scratch but the teen boy was full of injuries.

The next time she gets lost, you find her again. But make sure to look after yourself too.

Tomo recalled the day when they came back from a long journey. Seeing his sister work so hard made him so proud. But he didn’t want her to exert too much effort. He didn’t want her to always be so exhausted every time she goes back home.

The ash blonde merchant looked at his samurai friend beside him. “Promise me you’ll look after her when I’m not here.”

The boy looked at him strangely but Kazuha still gave him his usual warm smile. “I will.”

You need to keep our promise, or…

With his last breath, he tried to convey his words to Kazuha. But only a small croak of half a sentence escaped his lips:

“I’ll never forgive you.”

Kazuha gasped in horror. He saw the Shogun’s guards approaching, faster, and faster. He couldn’t think, so he lunged forward and grabbed the dying Electro Vision and ran away.

Please, do what I cannot.

Tomo tried to reach out to follow the fading outline of the samurai.

Protect my sister.

But his energy gave out.

I’m sorry, Kazuha, (Y/N), I guess this is goodbye.

He could feel the light, the sound, his life, all fading away.

I pray both of you will be happy. I pray you’ll be loved by many people. Live the kind of life you both can be proud of in the end. Even if you get lost or make mistakes along the way, that’s fine.

Tomo sighed. Shucks, I wonder what your kids would look like.

He stifled a laugh and smiled. Protect her Kazuha, for me. But don’t forget to let her protect you as well.

With that, Tomo finally closed his eyes for the last time.

Chapter Text

One year later

Kazuha remembered how everyone was surprised when the Vision briefly lit up during that great battle.

For in all the time that he had spent searching high and low trying to find someone who might rekindle it, never had he imagined that he could be the one to cause its light to shine once more. It was almost as if his late friend were lending him his aid from behind the scenes.

This empty shell of a Vision not only proved this, but had also brought him many fateful encounters along the way:

He had been aided by the resistance, saved and taken in by Captain Beidou, he had even met the fabled Traveler, he found closure with his parents…

“Kazuha!” (Y/N) called him from the deck of the Crux. “We’re almost here!”

He reunited with his first love.

The samurai jumped down from the crow’s nest and immediately kissed the girl.

“Oi!” She pushed him away in embarrassment. “Not here!”

“What’s wrong with showing the world my affection for you?” He mumbled and wrapped his arms around her, brushing his hand on the silver promise ring on her finger.

“As much as it’s cute, Kazuha, keep your hands to yourself.” Beidou gagged as she walked by.

(Y/N) and Kazuha have been with the Crux for nearly a year now. After the war in Inazuma, the two stayed for a while to see the nation recuperate. Once they said their proper goodbyes to their friends and the Traveler, they traveled together with the Crux. He was thankful Beidou accepted him again.

Though the meeting between (Y/N) and Beidou was embarrassing. Since the captain had been taking care of him like a mother for a mere year, she had a lot of mortifying stories to tell the girl. The two got along very well… because they were making fun of Kazuha.

Such as his bratty childhood, courtesy of (Y/N).

And his drunk ramblings, courtesy of Beidou.

Kazuha didn’t want to repeat their stories…

Now, the Crux just docked in Liyue Harbor a couple of days ago. He wanted to show her around the City of Contracts. It was night, the City was still alive.

The two were able to earn some money from Beidou. But they made an agreement: after they landed on Liyue, they would go separate ways.

An ending meant a new beginning.

Even though they were leaving, that didn’t mean they would never return to see Beidou, or even go back to Inazuma.

For now, they just wanted to make up for lost time.

(Y/N) stared in awe around the stores, selling jade and other trinkets. Everywhere seemed golden and lively. “This is so different from Inazuma.”

She nearly crashed into a girl dressed in black chasing a purple-haired child.

(Y/N) sighed. “Everyone seems so boisterous here, unlike Inazuma, everyone there was a little more reserved…”

“It's nice to see something new and unfamiliar.” Kazuha commented as they strolled around the market. “That’s the beauty of traveling to unknown places.”

She hummed in agreement, laughing and twirling in her kimono under the moonlight, the hydrangea hairpin holding her Hydro Vision was glistening. The ring on her finger that symbolized their promise twinkled. “It is beautiful.”

Kazuha may or may not have proposed to her a few months ago, while he was half drunk during one of Beidou’s parties. The ring was something he got from Inazuma before they left. He planned to ask her that question a little later until they were slightly older. Of course, (Y/N) rejected him.

Technically.

She accepted the ring and answered “not yet” but told him that she was sure that she was going to be his forever.

And her words knocked him out.

“Beautiful indeed,” Kazuha smiled at the girl before him.

The two ventured near the bridge by the sea. He buried his face on her neck as he wrapped his arms around her.

“You’re being awfully clingy today,” She frowned and untangled herself from him. “What’s wrong?”

“I just want to spoil you; just a bit.” He admitted.

“I thought you told me you didn’t want to spend much money.”

“I wasn’t talking about buying something.”

Her face flushed scarlet. Her (e/c) eyes widened from realization. “NO!”

The boy laughed at her. “I was just teasing. Don’t worry, I’ll wait.”

She punched him. Hard on his face.

(Y/N) walked ahead out of the Liyue gates. “I really just can’t tolerate you sometimes.”

“Wait! I said I’m sorry!”

Just like a child, she sped up her pace. “Try to catch me!”

Their laughs echoed throughout the serene night.

In life there were seasons of hopelessness and desperation, but there were also moments of great serendipity.

His journey was like the rise and fall of a mountain path — at times, the struggle was all but too much to bear, but there would always be moments when he would touch the clouds.

And he wasn’t continuing his journey by himself.

She stumbled on the dirt and shrieked. Luckily, he was close enough to catch her.

“Careful now,” Kazuha whispered. He was the one who took the fall and she landed on top of him.

Though she was embarrassed, (Y/N) pecked him on the forehead. “Thank you,”

“Ah, my lips hurt.” He whined. “Can you kiss it better?”

She laughed at his act and flicked his face as she pulled him up to sit down. “No.”

“Why?”

“You’ve been embarrassing me too much today.”

“Please? There isn’t anyone around here.”

Well, that was true. Since they were in the outskirts of the City, all they could see was the dotted outline of gold lanterns lighting the market roads.

(Y/N) sighed. “You really are a pain in the ass.” She pulled him by his collar and their lips met.

They pulled away, breathless from the passion. “I love you,” She whispered, her (h/c) hair slightly messy.

He smiled and held her hand. “I love you too. And I won’t let you go again.”

He wasn’t alone in the dark. He now had (Y/N) to light his life. Together, they’ll continue on their journey.

Kazuha wasn’t a lonely maple leaf anymore.