Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Barely a few weeks had passed since the Sakoku Degree was lifted, and the docks of Ritou had never been so full. Kazuha, having just dismounted the Alcor moments prior, strolled around his homeland with a renewed lightness in his soul. No longer did he have to be wary of every step he takes, yearning to escape from the clutches of his own archon. Now, he could simply take his time to walk around and enjoy the beauty of Inazuma.

"You dirty mongrel!" Kazuha's ears perked up upon hearing those words, rarely spoken by inazumans. Whatever this 'mongrel' did must've truly aggravated this man. He turned his head towards its source and saw a small person, bent down with their long, matted hair covering their face. His heart twinges in sympathy as the man harshly grabs a pair of bony wrists, in which three sticks of tempura shrimps lay. 

“Excuse me,” he quickly disrupted when the man raised his other palm, poised to strike. A pair of blazing onyx eyes threatened to pin Kazuha in place, but he simply plastered a small, disarming smile as he continued to approach. “May I ask what the matter is?”

“This thief here never pays for his food! I’ve tolerated him simply because his cousin is a shrine maiden, but his bills had gotten out of hand!” The man growled as he dragged the other’s wrist closer. A strangled noise escaped the captive’s throat. Kazuha winced at the purple marks blooming against incredibly pale skin. That was definitely going to bruise.

“Forgive me, but I’m afraid that violence isn’t the answer.” His hand twitched at his sides as he eyed the smaller boy uneasily. Hunched over and as tense as a log. The urge to pull him away from the abuse was surging within him like raging tides. When the man sneered and tightened his hold, Kazuha couldn’t stop the words that escaped his mouth, “How much?”

“For what? His bills?” The store vendor raised an eyebrow challengingly, “It ain’t cheap, that’s for sure.”

He nodded his head. With the other’s violent reaction, that much was clear. “I’ll pay for it.”

“Pay ours too! He’s been leeching off of us for weeks now! Want some proof? We’ve got his tab right here!” A nearby shop-keeper suddenly piped in, followed by many others’ agreement. 

The corner of his lips twitched and he nodded calmly, ignoring the slight panic whirling up within as he thought of the fate of his hard-earned savings, “Of course.”

In the end, the samurai was left alone with a considerably lighter wallet. A sigh escaped his lips as he carefully slid it back into his pocket before looking around for any signs of the boy. He must’ve escaped when he was busy paying his bills. He thinks of his less than ideal conditions and purses his lips. Those bruises will need to be treated soon.

A heavy sigh caught his attention and Kazuha turned his head to see the same man from before now wearing a forlorn expression on his face. “Such a shame,” He said as he fixed his cart, ready to head home for the day now that the sun was setting. “He used to be so lively too.”

Kazuha glanced up at him curiously, “Do you perhaps know who he is?”

“Everyone does.” He answered, watching as the last rays of the sun shine upon the roofs of the many buildings around Ritou, “He used to be an integrous holder of justice, but ever since he’d lost his vision..” Another sigh was breathed as he lifted the cart’s wooden handles, “Ai yah, how far the mighty had fallen.”

If he held him in such high regard, then why was he so rough with him just moments before? He wondered, yearning to sate his curiosity, but there was a bigger fish to fry, “He lost his vision?”

“Yes. It’s only been a few months, but the change is clear and fast. People had been kind to him at first, sharing him food and beverage for free, but overtime, he seemed to have lost any sense of tact. He never says thank you and now he just straight up takes our goods without asking!” 

Ah. That answers his first question then. “But since the Vision Hunt Decree has been abolished, can’t he just retain his vision?” It was a simple solution, in his opinion. Just take the vision from the statue and you’re good to go. But if things were that easy, then this boy wouldn’t be in such a predicament, now would he?

As expected, the man explained, “That’s just it. Recently, many had tried to give it back, especially his co-workers, but everytime he saw it, he’d throw a fit and demand us to attach it back to the statue’s wings.”

Kazuha frowned. Now that doesnt make any sense. “Why would he do that?”

He shrugs, “No one knows, but every time he refuses, he’d say these exact words: ‘an eye for an eye’.” 

An eye for an eye.. Kazuha puts his chin between his thumb and forefinger, lost in thought. Were these words of vengeance? But towards who? Himself? No, that doesn’t make any sense. Did he perhaps make a trade of some sort that has something to do with his vision? Then again, what kind of thing would be worth the loss of one’s own dreams and ambitions?

“Anyhow, I’ve gotta hit the hay.” The sound of wood rolling against stone accompanied loud footsteps as the vendor rolled his cart down the road, snapping him out of his stupor. “Good luck dealing with him. You’ll need it.”

“Thank you.” He said with a polite smile, before quickly adding, “Oh, and what might his name be?”

“Shikanoin.” His heart stopped; muscles frozen as if he were actually shrouded in ice. It can’t be who he thinks it is, right? He frantically tried to deny it, but Shikanoin was not a common family name and only one person completely fit the vendor’s description. His breath caught in his throat as he waited for the other to elaborate. “ Shikanoin Heizou. ”

Blood roared in his ears.

Back at the Crux, a lone figure sat on the crow’s nest, looking up at countless stars sprinkled on a black canvas as he listened to the rambunctious laughter below. Dark, expansive sleeves swayed in the cool breeze that brushed his skin like a lover's caress. He closed his eyes and savored its touch with a sigh. 

Heizou lost his vision. Why and how it happened was a mystery that he wanted to solve, because why would a member of the Tenryou Commission - one of the best at that - have their vision apprehended by their own archon? What did he do to warrant such a punishment? And, if the rumors were true, why would he refuse to take it back? He thinks back to what the vendor had said: an eye for an eye.. Just what did that mean?

“Yo! What's up?” A familiar voice boomed behind him. The woman practically shook the whole nest as she heaved her way up to the platform.

“Captain Beidou.” He greeted, barely turning his head towards her.  He’s noticed her presence since before she arrived and she probably knew it too. As always, she wasn’t offended by his casualty. Instead, the captain leisurely plopped down next to him, making the two jugs of rum in her hold slosh dangerously as she offered one to him. He gladly accepted.

“Somethin’ troublin’ ya’, boy?”

He huffed a laugh at that, before taking a tiny sip of the alcohol, allowing it to burn down his throat. There were plenty of things troubling him, she should know, but this recent one, he might have no choice but to share. With a melancholic smile, he softly began, “..My friend lost his vision.”

Beidou raised her visible eyebrow, “Another one?”

He took a big swig of the jug and slapped his mouth with the back of his hand once he was done. “Yes,” he sighed, “another one.”

“Well, this one ain’t dead, is he?” 

That stung the slightest bit, though he knew that the captain meant no harm. “No, but he might as well be.”

“And that’s because..?”

He parted his lips to respond, when the winds whispered something to him. Down, down below- His eyes widened and he snapped his head towards where the wind was pointing. -is someone with the name of Heizou. True to their words, there, by the beach, was a small figure crouching by the seaside. Without hesitance, he put his rum aside and leapt into the air; extending his gliders to head towards the beach. Behind him, he could hear someone calling his name, but he paid it no mind, knowing that she’ll leave him to his own devices. When he dropped down, the sand whipped up a storm around him. He heard someone gasp in shock but not move a single step. Scarlet eyes glanced upwards and met wide, olivine jewels.

“Heizou..” he breathed as he straightened up. He got to his feet and closed in on the other. His eyes and cheeks were slightly sunken in and his skin had a ghastly complexion. He did not look good. “How long has this occurred?” He asked as he reached out a hand to gently brush his tangled hair away from his face.

“You feel…” The other rasped as those eyes locked onto his own, “Important.”

Huh..? He blinks and in that instance, the other suddenly backs away from his hold and flees into the night as fast as the wind despite his malnourishment. “ Wha -” Kazuha, having not expected the movement, was frozen in shock, “Wait!”

Without hesitance, he gave chase. Questions whirled inside his head as he dashed through trees and shrubberies. Why did he run away? And he said he was.. important? With a mental shake to his head, he pushed those interrogations aside to focus on the current task at hand.

Even though Heizou had a head start, he lacked two things. One, was his vision, and two, was his nourishment. So, Kazuha caught him with ease. He made sure to be gentle when he pinned his chest to the ground, commanding the winds to soften the other’s fall. He didn’t even need to use both hands to fit his wrists into his hold, holding them behind his back. 

“Let go!” He exclaimed with urgency, violently thrashing around in his hold, trying futilely to dislodge Kazuha off his back.

“Heizou, calm down.” He ground his teeth together, for his words seemed to have done nothing but aggravate the other further. A stray branch was digging into his side, but he didn’t seem to care. He’ll hurt himself if this continues. With a deep inhale, he gritted out, “Forgive me.” 

Firmly, he whacked the side of his neck and he was out like a light. Kazuha heaves a heavy sigh as he takes the other into his arms. He was so light, he didn’t even need to muster much strength to carry him. He made sure to be as discreet as possible as he checked in to the nearest inn, knowing that it would deter many people to see the famed ‘person who parried the Musou no Hitotachi’ carrying what seems to be a homeless boy. Thankfully, since it was late at night, there was barely anyone awake and those who were were far too tired to spot the figure jogging in the dark. In all honesty, he could’ve taken him back to the Crux, but he reckons that a proper bed and bath would do the man plenty of good. 

The innkeeper gave him the stinky side eye when she saw him entering the abode with a suspiciously unconscious person in tow, but she didn’t question him, much to his gratefulness. He didn’t know what he’d even say should she ask. After obtaining the key from her, he entered his assigned room and noticed that it only had the bare necessities. There was a bathtub behind a paper folding screen on one corner, a kotatsu table in the middle of the space, as well as a small bed near an open window. Thankfully, this room was within his now limited budget, so he didn’t mind much. Plus, he’s made do with less.

Gently, he laid Heizou down on the bed. Now that there was a source of light, he could thoroughly inspect his present state. Compared to his old self, Heizou was basically all skin and bones; his clothes were completely torn, long since unusable. Kazuha felt his eyes burn. Gently, he stroked his cheek, feeling the sharp junctures of his cheekbones digging into the side of his palm. With a sigh, he mumbled, “What happened to you, Heizou?”

Seeing his peaceful face, Kazuha knew he wouldn’t get the answer he sought. Oh well, better do what he can as he waits for him to wake up. With that thought in mind, he deposited his bag onto the bedside table and headed over to the bathtub, filling a nearby bucket with water and grabbing a fresh towel, before bringing the items over to the bed. Clearly, in order to clean him up, he’ll have to undress him. He wasn’t sure if he wanted to see the horrors that lie beyond those thin layers, but he knew he had no choice.

“..Pardon my rudeness,” he mumbled as he unclasped Heizou’s choker, the only object that was still intact, and put it aside alongside his pouch. Then, he meticulously untied the red rope holding his torn sleeves together and cast those aside as well. Once he managed to slide his shirt off of his torso, he immediately got to work wiping the filth off of the other’s skin. Thankfully, the other was not in as bad of a condition as he’d thought. Definitely on the skinny side, but other than a few bruises here and there, he had no other visible injuries.

After what felt like hours of wiping him down, he threw the towel into the bucket, both caked with dirt and grime, and wiped the sweat off of his forehead with the back of his hand. The boy looked much fresher now, and he’d look even better with a bath. However, that’ll have to wait until he’s conscious. For now, perhaps some food will do him good. Speaking of food, when he first arrived, Kazuha had already ordered two meals from the reception, so it should be here any moment now. Right as he thought as such, a knock resounded from the door. Perfectly on time. “Just a moment!”

He stood up to make his way to the entrance, but was yanked back by a sudden force on his wrist, making him jump in surprise. He whipped his head around to glance towards the bed. The occupant of which had his eyes wide open and fixed on his own. 

“Oh,” he breathed, “you’re awake.” With a reassuring smile, he gently slid the other’s fingers off his wrist. “Don’t worry, I’ll be right back.”

With a new hastiness to his steps, he slid open the room’s door and, faster than was appropriate, took the two trays from the innkeeper’s hands with a smile, “Thank you.” When she turned to leave, Kazuha carefully slid the door shut with his foot, before carrying the food trays onto the nearby table. “Would you like to eat first, or bathe first?”

The silence that greeted him caused him to look up. He was still staring at him. “Detective?”

“...” Heizou, now sitting up, tilted his head, “You are..?”

His breath caught in his throat. “You don’t.. You don’t remember me?” Slowly, he shook his head. Kazuha felt as if the world was splitting into two, but he needed to calm down and not let his emotions get the better of him. There was no doubt about it, this was the effect of the loss of his vision. Despite the turmoil raging within, he still plastered on a smile, “I am but a wandering samurai, please do not worry about my identity.”

He knew it was futile trying to make him remember. After all, from his observation, he’d garnered that if someone were to forget something due to the apprehension of their vision, then they will continue to forget no matter how much you try to make them remember. Something to do with the loss of their ambition, if he wasn’t mistaken. 

“Your name?” He rasped, voice as rough as sandpaper. Right, water. Don’t get distracted. Kazuha swiftly, but elegantly, pours some hot tea from the provided kettle into two porcelain cups and carries one over to the bed. 

Gently sitting down on the edge of the mattress, he blows some steam off the cup’s surface and gingerly offers it to the other. “Here - careful, it’s hot.”

Contrary to his expectations, instead of taking the cup from his hands, the boy leans in to sip at the rim and looks up through long, maroon eyelashes to meet his gaze. Tufts of knotted hair swayed to cover his face, yet the unruly strands simply made the image that much more beautiful. Amidst the red, his emerald eyes popped out as if they were actual gemstones. For some inexplicable reason, the sight stole his breath away. 

Scarlet leaves, gemstone eyes..

“Your name?” That familiar, smooth voice whispered. Now that he’d finished drinking his fill, those lips glistened like pearls. He couldn’t stop staring; he was bewitched.

..Pearls of the night, endearing like the sweetest kiss.

The question, once his mind managed to process it, snapped him out of whatever spell he’d been cast under and he shook his head to disperse those thoughts. Instead, with his free hand, he brought out a handkerchief to dab away at the other’s wet lips, ignoring how strangely enticing it looks.

“How about you give me your name first?” He tries as he walks back to the small table to safely deposit the empty teacup. With his current funds, he really couldn’t afford to break such an expensive object. He looks at the other cup of tea. He could really use a drink himself. He kneels down in a perfect seiza to take it into his hold.

"Zou…"

After he took a big gulp of the warm beverage, allowing the liquid to ease down his throat like a warm welcome, Kazuha elegantly raised an eyebrow and prompted, "Zou..?"

“Zou.” He finished.

“...” A furrow found its way to Kazuha’s eyebrows as he stared at the golden-brown liquid. Perhaps he should order something stronger. He mentally shrugged and tipped back the rest of the cup as if he was drinking some top notch sake. There was the sound of shuffling, then meager footsteps approaching the table. Only when a plop was heard from across him did he look up at his companion. He was looking down at the tray with sparkles in his eyes. “Zouzou?” A curt nod. “What about ‘Shikanoin’?” A tilt of the head caused him to try again, “Shikanoin Heizou?”

“Sounds important.” He went back to scanning the food before him, and quickly began to eat. As Kazuha followed his lead, albeit with more grace, he couldn’t help but let his mind run its course. Important.. He said that about him too. It seems that everything crucial has been forgotten - including his own name. Was Zouzou a nickname then? He realized that it was rude of him, but he couldn’t stop himself from thinking that it sounds like the name of a puppy.

Accidentally, he lightly snorts at the thought, making ‘Zouzou’ glance up at him curiously. Cute. The nickname was cute and the person? Even more so. Once Kazuha regained his bearings with a reassuring smile, the boy dived back to his meal.

When both trays were empty, Kazuha urged the still shirtless boy to head towards the bath. Prior to entering the tub, Kazuha asked him to take off his lower garments and took off his own haori as well as gloves in the meantime, unwilling to go through the trouble of washing them when he could avoid getting them dirty in the first place. As the boy followed his example, he busied himself with filling the tub with the provided flowers, meant for scenting the waters, then inspecting the rest of the bathing substances. There was soap, shampoo, and etcetera. Truly not bad for the room’s price. “If you’ve undressed, you should enter the tub, Hei - Zouzou .” 

Only after a splash did he glance towards the tub to see that Heizou was obediently sitting with his back towards him, no longer trying to flee. Satisfied, he dipped a nearby ladle into the tub, filling it with water, before pouring it back over Heizou's head, mindful not to get any in his eyes or ears. Afterwards, he poured some shampoo into his hands and massaged it onto the red-head’s scalp. As the other leaned into his touch, he couldn’t help but smile fondly, but it soon fell with the renewed heaviness that weighed upon his mind. “..Back at the beach, why did you run away?” 

Silence permeated the air, but Kazuha was patient. As he waited, he continued washing the other’s hair, gently untangling each unruly strand with his fingers. With every motion, tension seemed to leak out of the other’s shoulders in steady waves. “..Because you felt important.”

Again with that. “And you fled because of it?”

He nodded, sliding the pad of his finger against the wooden rim. The tension was back; Kazuha massaged it away with nimble hands, “Important things must be left alone.”

Kazuha hummed, “Why is that so?”

“Because we had a deal.”

His hands stopped moving. The other whined in displeasure, snapping him back from his thoughts. Slowly, he continued his rhythmic motions and Heizou quickly relaxed back into his hold, “If I may, what might the deal be?”

“An eye for an eye.” He mumbled with his eyes closed.

It seems his information was accurate, though he obtained them from nothing more than mere gossip, “..Could I trouble you to elaborate?”

He apologetically shook his head, “I don’t really remember..”

“Hm,” disappointment washed over him, but he did his best not to let it show, “that’s fine.” If he doesn’t remember, then it was useless trying to force him to. Usually though, the detective would remember every little detail.

For the nth time that day, a sigh escaped his lips. He knew the reason behind all abnormalities was most likely the same - the loss of his vision. The solution should be simple, just get his vision back. However, according to his knowledge, even if he managed to obtain his vision, Heizou would refuse to take it. Then again, he thought as he continued to wash away the remaining foam off his skin, there’s nothing wrong with trying, is there? With a clack, the ladle was put aside and Kazuha offered him his hand, “Come on, let’s get you dressed.”

After getting him into Kazuha’s spare robes and tucking him to bed, he looked at the dark skies outside. The wind and the earth were silent, which could only mean one thing: a storm is coming. And that would be his chance.

A hand suddenly holding his bandaged one caught his attention. He looked down to see Heizou’s eyes still open with a small pout to his lips. “Hei - Zouzou?” An insistent tug caused him to sit on the edge of the bed as he did an hour prior, “What is it?” He continued to tug and Kazuha went along willingly, leaning his ear to the other’s lips just as he beckoned, as if he was going to tell him a big secret.

“ I can’t sleep .” He whispered.

Kazuha pulled back slowly, looking at the boy with a bemused expression. All of that just to tell him he can’t sleep, yet his dramatics somehow managed to tug a smile upon his lips, “Would you like me to play you a tune?”

Olivine eyes widened in wonder as its owner nodded enthusiastically. With a smile, he caught a leaf carried by the wind and planted it in between his lips. A sharp, yet smooth melody filled the room as he played, and play it he did. He played until those eyelids grew far too heavy to keep watching; he played until the other’s grip loosened and his breathing evened out; he played until dark clouds spanned the horizon, shrouding the world in an inky darkness as it hid the moon. Only then did he finally lower the leaf away from his chapped lips, dry from being kept in the same position for so long.

“I’ll get you back to normal, Heizou.” He mumbled as he brushed the other’s hair off his forehead. There was an urge within him - one he could not explain, but it was overpowering in its want and he was helpless to resist. He gave in. Closing his eyes, he bent down and planted a kiss in between his brows. An assurance, he told himself; a promise. “So don’t worry..”

He got to his feet, attached his sword to his hip, and grabbed his Kasa ¹ from amongst his things as he walked towards the door. Before he left, he glanced back one more time at the sleeping figure. He didn’t know why he was so reluctant to leave his side. He’ll come back, after all. There’s no need to be so worried, because he’ll return before Heizou even wakes up. With that affirmation, he finally managed to turn around and close the door with a click. 

On Narukami Island, a grand statue stood. The woman had a serene smile on her face and on her magnificent, stone wings were a few dozen dull visions. Only one of them was anemo. Crimson eyes locked onto said vision, watching as the guards patrolled in the darkness with their swords and lanterns. Soon, the skies will shed their tears and lash their deadly whips and he’d be able to snatch it undetected. 

As expected, mere moments later, a terrible downpour occurred and the guards rushed to take shelter. At that moment, he snuck out of his hiding spot and walked onto the planks. Afterwards, he swiftly jumps high into the air and plucks the ornament off of the stone. Easy as pie. Carefully, he tucked it into his robes and swung the cloth of his bamboo hat away from his face. Now, getting Heizou to take it would most likely not be as smooth of a ride.

By the time he got back to the inn, the moon was descending for the sun. As silent as a cat, he entered the dark room, lit up only by the sun’s early rays, and stowed away his soaked bamboo hat onto the bedside table. The weight of the vision in his hands reminded him of the time he carried his friend’s electro vision, but this time, it was different, because its owner was still alive.. and Kazuha will be there for him.

As he approached the lump on the bed, numerous scenarios made itself known within his mind. Maybe he could slip the vision into Heizou’s hold as he sleeps? That would be the most peaceful option, in his opinion, though not exactly his way of doing things. Perhaps just offering the vision to him would be ideal?

Just as he reached the bed, his heart dropped and his hold on the dull vision tightened. With bated breath, he throws the cover off the bed and within, only a pillow lay, cold and crumpled from recent use. Heizou wasn’t there. 

Throughout his life, he scarcely ever spouts a curse word. He thinks now was a good time to start. With a click of his tongue, he swore under his breath, “Chikushou..” ²

Chapter Text

After packing what little belongings he had, Kazuha paid for all expenses of the night before and quickly exited the building. It seems that though the storm had abated, the clouds had yet to cease their tears. Hence, he was forced to adorn his kasa yet again as he took off to the streets.

Where could he have gone? There was a storm last night and he was certain that Heizou did sleep before he left. Did he perhaps wake up and saw that the room was empty? Did Kazuha leave for a few hours too long? He frantically pondered as he tried to use his affinity to nature to locate him. He swallowed back a groan of frustration when he came out empty handed. Heizou's scent must've been washed away by the rain. He couldn’t get a lead at all.

After searching Ritou high and low without any luck, he decided to head towards Inazuma city to ask around, but seeing as it was still raining early in the morning, not many were awake. He surveyed the area and much to his relief, one store was just preparing to open for the day.

“Excuse me,” he approached Naganohara Fireworks with haste despite his calm disposition. As usual, Naganohara Ryuunosuke, who was guarding the store, didn’t seem to hear him, so he raised his volume, “Excuse me!”

“Hah?” The man finally turned his head towards him, “Oh, oh my, Kazuha, is that you?”

“Yes, it’s me, grandpa,” He confirmed with a smile and a nod, “I was wondering, have you seen a boy with red hair running around?” He was still in his undergarments too.. it must be freezing. He can only hope that he could find him soon.

“Wha? What was that?”

Usually, Kazuha would have no problem repeating his words, but at the moment, he was truly fighting against time. Still, he needed to keep himself in check. With a deep inhale, he calmed his nerves as best as he could, and loudly repeated, “Have you seen a boy? With red hair? He’s slightly shorter than me.” Especially without those tall heels he used to wear.

“I think I have!” A high-pitched voice piped in from within the store. Soon, a blonde haired girl came into view, carrying a heavy load of fireworks and depositing them onto the porch with a huff. Only afterwards did she look up at Kazuha, planting both hands on her hips, “Pretty sure he got taken to the Tenryou Commission’s Office not long ago.”

He could’ve sworn his heart stopped beating. “Who took him?”

“The officers, of course!” What would the officers want to do with Heizou? He asked himself, pulse thrumming beneath his skin and breath threatening to grow ragged. Did they know that he took his vision from the statue? Was Heizou going to be punished because of him? Crimson flashes through his mind: a dull electro vision; blood pooling on the ground-

“You have my thanks, Naganohara-san.” He bowed his head stiffly, ignoring the images conjured by his agitated mind, and quickly headed off towards the office.

“Hehe, don’t mention it!” Yoimiya waved him off with a grin, not the slightest bit offended by his hastiness, a quality he can truly appreciate from a fellow inazuman. As he ascended the slippery stairs, wet from the ongoing rainfall, a scent wafted up his nose. Familiar. Heizou. His head snapped towards its source and there, from the gates, he spotted a red-head trying to weasel himself out of the grasp of the gatekeepers. Scarlet eyes narrowed down onto them as his hand automatically found its way to the hilt of his sword, but he stopped in his tracks as soon as he realized that they were doing their best not to lay a hand on the boy. They were simply trying to stop him from leaving. He wasn’t handcuffed either. 

Kazuha breathed in deep, dissipating the fog in his mind, and closed his eyes to listen to their words. “Doushin, it’s raining!” One exclaimed, followed by the other, “Please head back inside! We wouldn’t want you to get sick just when we found you!”

Oh. His shoulders slumped in relief and he nearly fell into a heap on the floor as soon as the adrenaline left his system. He’s safe. He’s not in danger. It’s fine. He wasn’t too late. His heart feels as if it would leap out of his chest and he couldn’t help but clutch at the front of his shirt, trying to ease the pounding.

“Ronin!” A voice desperately calls. Kazuha snaps his head upwards and makes eye-contact with wide, fearful doe eyes. He quickly sucks in air through his teeth to compose himself and exhales slowly, before standing upright. Heizou needs him, and Kazuha swore that he’d be there for him. He wasn’t about to go back on his word. His pose was casual, yet wary as he scans every inch of those who were present. The closer he gets, the tenser the officers become. On the other hand, Heizou just seemed as if he’d cry in solace. 

“K-K-Kaedehara!” The first officer began, blood quickly draining from his face despite Kazuha’s friendly demeanor. Now that everyone was focused on him, Heizou easily burst through the twin arms outstretched to keep him in place and threw himself right into the samurai’s arms. Truly, undeniably, incredibly unforeseen. Kazuha stumbled a few steps back from the force and awkwardly held himself as still as possible. 

What was he supposed to do? A heartbreaking sob wretched itself out of the other’s throat and instantly, the answer became clear to him. He couldn’t keep the smile off his face as he circled one hand around his back and the other up to his soggy hair, returning the embrace as best as he could.

“Shh.. I’m here. It’s alright.” He whispered as he brushed bandaged fingers through the other’s wet strands. His consolation only served to make Heizou cry even harder as his hold tightened around his sides. There was a wet patch on the front of his kimono that was most definitely not caused by the rain, but he ignored it. Just like how he ignored the blatant stares of the officers right in front of them, jaw-slacked and bug-eyed with disbelief coating their every being. 

An awkward cough had his ears burning as he glanced at the first officer, now turning his head away from them with a heavy blush adorning his cheeks. The second was not that much different, though he was clearly trying to be less obvious with his discomfort. “Uhm, would you like to come inside, sir?”

Kazuha tries to dislodge the smaller boy the slightest bit. Not enough to completely release him, but simply enough that it becomes slightly more acceptable for the public. Well, if having a beautiful person that was dressed in wet, transparent robes clinging to you in broad daylight counted as acceptable. Large, teary emerald eyes glared at the officers as Kazuha answered, “That isn’t necessary, thank you, but I am truly wondering why you’ve apprehended Shikanoin-san.”

“Well, apprehend is the wrong word for it, actually.” The first officer rubbed the back of his head sheepishly as the second offered them an umbrella, which Kazuha accepted with a nod of thanks. “I’m sure you’ve noticed that he’d lost his vision?”

He nodded, slyly readjusting the position of the dull vision within his sleeves under the guise of fixing the umbrella’s position above both their heads. “I have indeed.”

The officers looked at one-another guiltily and the second pursed his lips, “Well, we’ve been trying to keep it under wraps, because, uh, it wouldn’t be good for criminals to know that the Cyclone had lost both his badge and his vision for unknown reasons,”

The first then continued his sentence, “Of course, we wanted to make sure he was okay too! He started becoming..” He gestured to all of Heizou, causing his hand to tighten unconsciously on the other’s waist, “uh.. like this, so we weren’t really privy to letting him be on his own.”

“But we didn’t quite manage to since he fled around two months ago and hasn’t been seen since. Who would’ve known he would be at Ritou, of all places? As a beggar no less.” The second piped in. He forcefully brushed aside their final sentence and instead, focused on what he could garner from their explanation. 

They were hesitant, and unsure. Why, though? “You don’t know the details behind his..” How should he say this? Condition? He certainly wasn’t sick. In the end, he settled on: “..situation?”

Simultaneously, both shook their heads, “No, actually. The only person to know is the specifics is the one who made him this way-”

The one to speak yelped in pain upon the other’s elbow. He had an alarmed expression on his face, glaring at the first in warning. It was plain to see that whoever this was was an important figure, yet he couldn’t help but ask anyways, “And who might that be?”

They gulped, concurrently, as if they could read each-other’s mind. Then, just as one parted his lips to answer, an authoritative voice boomed, “That would be me.”

Instantly, Kazuha’s back turned ramrod straight and he protectively tucked Heizou’s curious face into his scarf as he faced the approaching figure, radiating absolute authority. The umbrella she held shielded her from most of the onslaught, but it seems that a few droplets had managed to touch her regardless. Her short, black bangs were plastered onto her forehead as she walked towards them. 

"Madame Kujou." They all - sans Heizou - greeted simultaneously. The Tenryou Commissioner nodded to acknowledge their greeting, but her eyes sauntered over to the bewildered boy in Kazuha's hold, causing his maroon gaze to narrow in warning. Her golden orbs were full of guilt and it was starting to tick a nerve within him.

“I apologize for our rudeness, but we shall be leaving." He bowed his head the slightest bit, though always keeping his senses keen and open for any signs of hostility. Then, he threw his haori over the smaller boy’s shoulders and urged him to walk with him. "Come now, Zouzou." Heizou glanced back at Sara curiously, before following Kazuha without hesitance; hands clutching the haori now wrapped around his shoulders. Kazuha’s heart was stuck in his throat as they trekked past the woman, staring straight ahead and unwilling to even look at them.

“Kaedehara-san, wait.” There was a sort of melancholic tone to her voice, full of regret. That was the only reason he stopped in his tracks. The silence was tense, wrung out despite the gentle, pitter-patter of the rain. When she didn’t say anything, he took a step forwards, and the words immediately tumbled out of her mouth with haste, “I’d like to speak with you, and offer a meal as well as a change of clothes, should you accept.”

Another storm was coming. He could practically taste it in the air, and Heizou seemed as if he could really take her up on that. After much speculation, he plastered a smile on his face and turned around, urging Heizou to do the same, but his eyes were cold, dangerous. “Well then, how could I refuse?”

She didn’t seem to notice his hostility, or if she did, decided to heed it no mind, and instead gestured for him to enter the office first. When he walked through the gate, Heizou suddenly stiffened and began pushing against his hold, “No!”

It seems he really doesn’t like the office. “Hei - Zouzou, we’ll only be here for a while.”

“No!” He shook his head, literally dragging his bare feet through the dirt. He was trying to back away, yet his hands clenched Kazuha’s kimono, unwilling to let go. Hence, causing quite the dilemma. Kazuha glanced helplessly at the three figures behind them, all anxiously averting their eyes. 

With a sigh, he handed his Kasa to the nearby officer with a smile. He simply took it, no questions asked. The umbrella, on the other hand, was offered to the boy, “Hold this for me?”

Heizou looked at the object with confusion, but obediently took it by the handle. As soon as his hand was free, Kazuha heaved the boy into his arms and deftly dodged the swaying umbrella. He looked down at the wide-eyed man with a grin as he entered the office. Clearly, he hadn’t quite made sense of what’d just occurred. Once inside, he carefully put Heizou back to his feet and plucked the dripping umbrella from his hold, trading it for his kasa held by the officer trailing after them in uncertainty. “Thank you.”

“Pleasure’s all mine.” The officer replied, before practically sprinting out the door. He kind of feels bad for making them uncomfortable..

All of a sudden, Kazuha had his breath get punched out of him with an ‘oomph’ - quite literally - causing him to double over in pain. He looked up to see glaring green eyes with pouty lips crossing his arms together. Did he - did he just punch him?

“Hmph, jerk.” He childishly points his nose to the air, before turning around. He watches as the maroon haired boy plops down on a nearby chair with exasperation. He really had no other choice, but he’s glad to see he still had quite the punch - his gut seriously feels like it’s been hit by a rock.

“Does that.. need to be treated?” The tengu nervously asks. Kazuha rubs his stomach a few times until the pain subsides, then straightens up with a wince. 

“Not.. necessarily, but thank you.” He tried to smile reassuringly, but even he could tell that it was more of a grimace instead. Wow, Heizou really hit hard, didn't he? Good to know he didn’t lose his prowess. With a shaky breath, he turns to the commissioner and asks, “Now, shall we go straight to the point?”

The woman purses her lips and crosses her arm uncomfortably, clearly this was a sensitive matter to her, “We shall..”

He raised a brow, “But..?”

“But I’d reckon that the both of you should eat and clean up first.”

Bidding for time, was she? Well, it’s not like Kazuha was in any hurry, so it didn’t matter much, “Alright.”

“Please, show them to their rooms.” The appointed guard bows in respect, before gesturing for them to follow. Kazuha glanced at Heizou, still crossing his arms, and offered him a hand. He turned his head away with a puffed out cheek and a petty ‘hmph!’.

Kazuha’s brow twitched and he turned around with a rigid smile, “Lead the way.”

“Um, o-okay.” As he followed the uneasy officer, he could hear someone’s heart jump, then quicken. Anytime now.. Just as he was about to exit the office, two arms violently latched onto his own. Having expected this, he didn’t even stumble and simply looked at said arm to see a mound of red hair. 

His smile turned genuine as he pats his head, “Good boy.” The smaller boy was turning his face away from him, but Kazuha could see the pink adorning his cheeks and the tips of his ears, causing his lips to twist upwards into an amused smirk. Truly adorable. “Shall we?” He asked the flustered officer, who stuttered, before quickly nodding.

Once they arrived at a hallway meant for accepting guests, they faced two doors leading to two separate rooms located right next to one-another. “Here’s the first room, sir.” Kazuha glanced inside the open door. It was fairly simple, yet its utilities wholly made up for it. Especially the private outdoor spring that was beyond a pair of open sliding doors. He nodded in thanks and entered, but paused upon his first step into the room. Ruby red met Peridot green. He tried to shake off the other's grip the slightest bit, but he only clung tighter with a stubborn frown, keeping his eyes challengingly on Kazuha’s. The officer hesitatingly said, “Um, doushin Shikanoin, your room is-.”

“It’s fine.” Kazuha waved off with a sigh and a smile, glancing back over his shoulder to the wide-eyed soldier, “If you’d please be so kind as to leave us be.”

With another stumble in his words, the officer bowed and snapped the door shut as quickly as was deemed polite. “You,” he booped Heizou’s nose, making it scrunch like a rabbit’s, “are a handful.” He grinned playfully, showing that he was only joking, “Now come on, it seems that both of us need a bath this time around.”

After they ate the provided meal, cleaned up, and changed into a fresh set of kimonos, Kazuha busied himself with slathering some ointment he’d obtained from doctor Baizhu on the other’s bruises. An action he’d completely forgotten to do the night before. Heizou hissed and flinched whenever the cold gel touched his skin, but Kazuha persevered, “Be still, okay? This is for your own good.” With gritted teeth, Heizou listened, or tried to. He clearly gets goosebumps whenever his scarred fingers brush against his body, making Kazuha purse his lips. Maybe he should’ve bandaged himself first before treating the other. “..Sorry, are they uncomfortable?” Heizou stubbornly shook his head, but his clenched fists said otherwise. His lips thinned further, looking at the raised, burned skin on his finger all the way up to his forearm with guilt. Next time, he’ll cover them up. “There, it’s done.”

A heavy exhale was breathed through the samurai's nose as he tied the other’s kimono back up. Then, he turned around, leaned his back against the bed’s frame - on which the other was sitting - and lathered the same ointment to his own scars. The boy curiously leaned over the edge and tilted his head, “Do they hurt?”

Kazuha did not glance up at him as he continued to apply the medicine, “Sometimes they do, but most times, it’s just a slight sting.” Silence stretched out between them. Kazuha felt eyes burning into his hand, but paid it no mind and instead, corked the jar and placed it back in his bag, before rolling out some bandages. This was the most difficult part of his daily routine, in his humble opinion, for it was quite a feat considering he could only use one hand. After completely wrapping a finger, he took one edge of the freshly cut bandage between his teeth and the other end in his left hand, before looping them together and pulling tight as he tried to seal it. Frustration bubbled up within as he failed for the second time. His fingers must still be slippery from the ointment. 

Suddenly, a shadow cast itself over him and a waterfall of crimson filled his view. He tilted his head back, sandwiched in between two thighs, to watch the boy lean over to tie the end of a bandaged finger together. His eyes were sharp and focused, his hair now as smooth as silk. It was as if there was nothing wrong with him and he was back to his old self. “..Heizou,”

Their eyes met, and Heizou smiled, “Let me help.”

Kazuha couldn’t help but return the smile as he maneuvered himself so his right arm was on the bed, then handed over both his sword and the bandages to him, “Then I thank you in advance.” Surprisingly, he skillfully tied the bandages on each finger, then proceeded to do the same to both his palm and his wrist. “Where did you learn to do this?”

He hummed around a mouthful of the bandages and only after he finished tying his arm did he release his arm and handed the roll of bandages back to him. “I don’t know.”

Right. The light in his eyes dimmed as disappointment washed over him yet again, but like yesterday, he tried his best to conceal it, and instead, pulled his arm back to his chest to inspect his near flawless work, while concurrently slipping the roll into his inventory, before leaning his head back onto his lap. It was surprisingly comfortable, despite the currently prominent bones. “Do you not like this place?”

“No, not really.” He answered as he cradled Kazuha’s head in between his hands and tentatively ran his fingers through his scalp, causing his eyelids to close with a hum, “It felt important, but not like you.”

His eyes squinted open at that and his platinum hair fell over his shoulders as he tilted his head further back, absently watching the other’s open expression as he looked down at him. “How so?”

“You make me feel safe.” He confessed, bending down to nose the crown of his head. Kazuha’s breath caught in his throat and his eyes widened as he felt the other’s smile against his skin, “This place, on the other hand, makes me feel like I want to run away.”

Kazuha blinked rapidly. “I- I see..” Personally, he feels as if he’s the furthest thing from ‘safe’, especially regarding a politician’s well being, but if he says so, then who was Kazuha to rebuke him? All of a sudden, the other’s lips downturned and Kazuha felt him shake as he buried his face in his hair. His eyes widened in alarm, “Hei - Zouzou?” A hiccup caused Kazuha to pull away from his hold and turn around in concern, “What’s wrong?”

He was bending over himself, hands clutching either side of himself in a self-hug. “I thought you left..” Guilt flooded him and he climbed onto the bed to take the sobbing boy into his hold, carding his fingers through his hair as he did.

“I apologize. I seemed to have lost track of time.” When Heizou tightly wound his arms around his stomach and hid his face on chest, Kazuha’s breath was yet again punched out of him and he was really starting to worry if there’s a bruise forming, even though he knew that there wasn’t. Heizou slid lower, burying his face on his abdomen and Kazuha could not be blamed for the heat coursing through his veins, “Um.. Hei - Zouzou?”

“..Sorry for hitting you.” He mumbled, rubbing his nose across his stomach. Kazuha struggled to maintain a calm facade and settled for controlling his breathing and repeating some calming, meditative haikus¹ instead. He parted his lips to ease his concern, when all of a sudden, the boy stiffened. Before he could ask, Heizou leaps off of him and nearly falls off the bed as he stares with horror at something by the bedside table. “What is that?”

Kazuha follows his line of sight and his heart plummets to the floor as he spots the glistening object underneath his wet haori. He reaches over to take it into his hold, both the dull vision, and his own. As soon as he opens his palms to show the oblong ornaments, emerald orbs widens in panic.

“It’s a vision. Mine,” he shows him the one that's glowing a bright teal, the anemo symbol flickering on and off, then places it on the bed. Heizou only glanced at it very briefly, before locking his gaze onto the second, dull and lifeless, still within his palm, “..and yours.”

Heizou really does jump off now, running to the corner and looking as if he was a trapped beast ready to strike. “Why is that here?” He asks with urgency.

“Because I took it.”

His heart broke when he saw the pain and betrayal swimming in those orbs, “Why? Why did you take it?! Put it back right now!”

“I’m afraid I can’t do that.” He blatantly refuses as he approaches the other, watching as he tenses. He stopped right before him and offered him the vision, only to have him slap his hand away. It fell to the ground with a loud clunk .

Kazuha glares at Heizou, who was aggressively glowering at him, “You - I trusted you! How could you do this to me?!”

His brows furrowed as he asked, “What do you mean? What did I do?”

Frantically, the boy babbled, “You took it! You broke the deal! You - No. Nonono, don’t hurt him, please don’t hurt him!” He slid down to the floor and dragged his knees up to his chest.

“Heizou, what do you mean? Hurt who?” He distraughtly asked. He needs to know the answer. He needs to-

-calm down. He needs to calm down, but he can’t. He just can’t . He needs the answer. Who did they hurt?

“Who? Heizou, who?” When the boy only continued to shake his head, Kazuha ground his teeth together and struggled not to shake the other’s shoulders in desperation. “Heizou, hurt who?!” 

Just at that moment, lightning flashed in the distance and with it, came the sound of roaring thunder. Heizou gasped, eyes snapping wide open, “I don’t know - I don’t know!”

“You have to know.” It was important - probably even a matter of life and death! He crouched down to his height and took the fallen object into his hold once more. Just a touch, just a single brush of his fingers and he’ll remember. “Heizou, please,” Kazuha begged, desperately trying to get him to take the goddamn vision, “just take it.."

The boy vigorously shakes his head, tears swimming in his eyes as he wildly clutches his hair, threatening to rip it apart. He squeezed his eyes shut, allowing the tears to flow like a river, pushing his palm away and stubbornly refusing to even touch the vision, “No, we had a deal! An eye for an eye! Don’t go back on your words now! Please, keep your promise! I won’t take it back! I swear! Just don’t hurt him!”

Again with those words. Kazuha wished to know what he meant by them, but he knew he wouldn’t get the answer. At least not right now. "Zouzou -"

"Kaedehara Kazuha." An authoritative voice suddenly boomed, accompanied by yet another thundering roar in the distance. Kazuha immediately straightened and slid the dull vision back into his sleeves as he turned his back towards a sobbing Heizou, unwilling to leave him unguarded. His right hand settled on the hilt of his katana as he warily watched the figure standing by the doorway. 

“Madame Kujou, I’m afraid that I must remind you that knocking is a basic courtesy.”

“... I’ve been knocking.” She said slowly, watching the boy lying in a heap on the floor with guilt, yet again. He gritted his teeth and buried the urge to strike deep within himself.

“Have you now?” Kazuha didn’t hear a thing, but she wasn’t lying. That much was clear. He must’ve been too emotional to notice. “If I may ask, what might you be doing here?”

“To speak with you, alone,” Ah, right. He’d completely forgotten about that, “..and to let him see his cousin.”

What?

As soon as she was given the okay, a figure warily entered the room and when her eyes landed on Heizou, she gasped. She then approached with haste and ran right past Kazuha. He stumbled back and watched as the woman, a shrine maiden, protectively embraced the crying boy, whispering words of reassurance, rocking them both back and forth, “Oh, Heizou, how did you become like this?” A sob escaped her lips as she held him tighter against herself. Misty, dark eyes glared at Kazuha as she cradled the boy, “Shh, you’re okay. Nee-san will take care of you.”

Strangely enough, Heizou wasn’t returning the embrace. He was as stiff as a log. Then, a sentence flashed through Kazuha’s mind: Important things must be left alone. .. Perhaps he should tell her, but then again, who was he to interfere? 

With a heavy sigh, he looked at them one last time, before walking out the room and closing the door shut. He stared at the wooden material for a moment, trying to compose himself despite the sweat pooling on his hands, feeling as if bile was rising up his throat. “You heard everything, didn’t you?” The tengu closed her eyes and nodded briskly. Another sigh escapes his lips as he fondles the vision within his sleeves, “..and you knew I took the vision.”

Another nod. Kazuha was pondering whether or not he should give the vision back, when the lady walked away, voice echoing in the hallways, “Keep it. I need you to come with me.”

Kazuha glanced at the empty hallway, seeming as if the commissioner had purposely told everyone to clear the isle to keep their secret safe, then to the tengu’s back. Having no choice, he followed. They walked past numerous halls and entered a hidden hatch in the tengu's private office that led to an underground basement.

As he descended the ladder after said woman, he couldn’t help but ask himself: was Sara trying to kill him? He had idiotically left his vision behind, so it wouldn’t be difficult for her to do so. However, he sensed no malicious intent, so that shouldn’t be the case. His train of thought was broken as soon as his feet met solid ground. They’ve arrived in a dark space, completely devoid of light.

“What I’m about to show you is top secret. Please, refrain from sharing this with the public.” Glowing, inhuman orbs glanced at him, looking for confirmation. 

He gave it without hesitance, planting a hand against his chest with an earnest gaze despite the darkness, “You have my word.” Though you wouldn’t need it should you kill me. He thought, but wisely did not say aloud.

With a flick of her hand, she spread her folding fan, pointing it upwards, and Kazuha watched as a wave of electricity shot from her very being and filled the room, directed by the 5 mirrors present in the dark cavern to the mound in the middle, absorbing the lightning like it was nothing. Oh, it was a pond, he noted. It was so dark, he didn’t even notice.

Then, an image was projected above the pool of water. It was transparent and moving. Familiar sandals came into view, walking through a road thick with foliage. The nature was familiar, but where had he seen it before? After a short moment of walking, the sandals were now buried in sand. A beach? Then, the image moved upwards, directing their vision to a very familiar figure, rushing towards a small boat, prepared by the Yashiro Commissioner. Was that.. him? 

“This is..” All of a sudden, the image wavered.

“My memory - now hush,” she commanded, eyes alight with electro, “pay attention and don’t ruin my concentration.” Kazuha nodded, though he was sure that she wouldn’t be able to see it, before locking his gaze back to the illusion. So she deliberately let him escape.

The person in the image was seen clenching her fists as she stared at Kazuha, now entering the boat alongside the boatman. She then forcefully turned her gaze away and stomped towards a nearby cliff. When she reached the top, his breath hitched and his eyes widened. That was-

‘Doushin Shikanoin.’ The image spoke. From the corner of his eyes, he could make out the actual Sara curl the slightest bit into herself. Either she was in pain, or deep in sorrow. Probably the latter, if he had to guess. It seems she truly regretted her actions.

‘Ah, what can I do for you, commissioner?’ That familiar, flirty voice lilted as mischievous, twinkling eyes looked over their shoulder to meet her own. That smile was empty, he realized.

‘You know what I came here for.’ She crossed her arms and stared straight ahead, at the boat that was rowing further and further away. He heard the image inhale deeply, fingers clutching her sleeves to ground herself.

She did not get an answer as the boy turned his gaze back towards the horizon. ‘..It’s such a beautiful day today, isn’t it?’

The image's focus shifted to the landscape, where the boat was now just a speck of black amongst red skies and orange seas. ‘..Yes. Incredibly so.’

His shoulders slumped in defeat as he sighed. ‘I know you’re a woman of integrity, so I will not doubt your oath, and neither will I break mine.’ Kazuha watched with bated breath as the detective brought his hand to his vision, untying it from his attire and cradling it in his palm. He watched it for a few moments, stroking its glossy surface. ‘..You know, today is my birthday.’

The image turned black as its owner slowly shut their eyes, then opened just as slowly to show Heizou now standing up, but he still had his back towards her. A shaky exhale was breathed, ‘I know.’

‘Hm,’ he hummed, still fixated on the vision. Soon, his hands fell to his sides and he hung his head with yet another sigh. The dejected action stabbed Kazuha straight in the heart and he couldn’t stop himself from planting a hand to his sword, as if he could stop this from happening. ‘..Buy me something nice, would you?’

‘I’ll buy you a month’s worth of deep fried meals.' She spoke with utter seriousness.

That brought a guffaw from the man, and Kazuha could imagine the sad smile stretching against the woman’s own lips. Heizou wiped a stray tear from the corner of his eyes and then straightened with a grin, it was so wide, so unnatural, it was as if he'd break with the slightest pressure. ‘I guess this is it, huh?’

‘...’ Sara said nothing, averting her gaze from the man. Only when he took a few steps forwards and took her hand in his, did she finally raise her gaze. The image was shrouded in mist. Was she.. crying? Heizou had a lopsided smile on his face, eyes full of understanding as he planted the vision in her palm.

‘An eye for an eye,’ he keeps the smile on his face as he unhooks both the Tenryou Commission’s badge as well as haori and offers them to her, ‘..and a life for a life.’ Before he could see the end, the image dissipated, but his soft voice still echoed in the aftermath, ‘Don’t come back, ronin. ’

Even after there was nothing and they were enveloped in the shadows, he couldn’t stop staring at where the image was conjured. He knows the answers to all of his questions now, yet his soul threatened to crack into a thousand pieces. It was all for him. All of it. While he’s been lamenting the death of his friend, safely sailing his days away at the crux, he didn’t realize that there was another still suffering because of him.

Glowing orbs turned to him, “I’m sorry, Kaedehara.”

He shook his head as he slid the vision into his palm, “..It was his own choice. Neither you nor I forced him to do what he did.”

“I see..” A weight seemed to be lifted off her shoulders upon his words. "What will you do?"

He gripped the vision so tightly, it dug into his palms, searing crimson across white cotton, as blazing red eyes snapped towards shining gold, “..What I should have done from the very beginning.”

‘Some things are more important than the truth’ and 'Is there ever something in this world that comes for free?’ Were both sentences once spoken by Heizou, and now Kazuha knows the meaning of both. No, nothing in this world comes without a price. Heizou traded everything for his freedom and the least Kazuha could do was give his identity back. No matter how difficult it may be. With every step he takes, he leaves behind droplets of red, dripping from his scarred hands. 

Just as he reaches the hallway to their room, a figure exits the door. Kazuha stops in his tracks. It was the shrine maiden. She looked up at him in surprise, eyes flitting down to his bleeding hand, but she did not comment on it. Instead, she spoke slowly, now fixing her gaze on the door she’d just exited, “He keeps telling me to leave.. So, I’ll just come back to see him another day.” Kazuha nodded. She walked until they were face-to-face, then bowed, “I apologize for my rudeness earlier. I was worried and I thought you were hurting him. I’m truly sorry if I offended you.” 

Kazuha planted his hands on her shoulder with his left hand and smiled, “None taken. I’m glad Heizou has people that care for him just as much as I do.”

Her eyes softened at that and she gave a small smile back, “My name is Kano Nana. If you ever need me for anything, you can always find me at the shrine.”

“Kaedehara Kazuha. Likewise at the Crux.” He replied. She sauntered off afterwards, leaving him alone in the hallway. Taking a deep breath, his grip tightened yet again on the vision, yet he could barely feel the pain. Instead, it was as if his nerves were set alight. He gently swung the door open and paused at the entry. Sweet, selfless, gorgeous Heizou was there, sitting with his back towards him outside, dipping his toes into the spring water. Silently, so as to not disturb, he closes the door with a click, and approaches. His own vision was no longer on the bed, but he could still feel its presence nearby. Did Heizou take it?

Right before the sliding door leading outside, Heizou turned towards him and Kazuha spotted something glowing teal in his grasp. So it was with him. Those eyes widened and the water of the spring sloshed as he rushed to his feet. Kazuha was worried if he’ll slip. “You-”

“Scarlet leaves, gemstone eyes,” He began, quickly cutting the other off before he could spiral into hysteria. “Pearls of the night, endearing like the sweetest kiss.” As expected, Heizou paused, frowning in confusion.

He’d thought this would work. If straightforwardness caused panic, then poetry and flowery language should do the opposite. Slowly, carefully, he closed in on the boy, trying to show that he wasn’t a threat. “A mind of wonders and a heart of gold; as lithe as a deer, yet as sharp as a hawk.” He spoke, voice accompanied by the rain touching the thin canopy above them.

“You are all of that, yet so much more.” The red-head was transfixed and Kazuha cradled his cheek with fondness in his eyes, “Oh my sweet Heizou, how I love you so.” A sharp intake of breath and widening of eyes had his smile growing wider. He opened his bleeding palm to once again reveal the dull vision, now slightly stained with blood. Alarmed green eyes locked onto it and its owner tensed, though whether that was due to the vision, or the blood, or both, he did not know. “When the storm threatens to destroy wandering leaves, a cyclone rushes in despite its risks and brings them to safety.”

“My mind is now clear and so is my heart..” He drops to his knees and grasps both his hands in his own free one, “Dearest Heizou, I understand now. An eye for an eye, a life for a life; to trade one’s own self for another, is a noble task indeed.” He brings the back of his hands to his lips and looks up at him through dark lashes, “But there is no need for that anymore, for I am safe.” He blinked back the wetness in his eyes as his hold tightened, “So please, come back to me..”

Unable to help himself, he buries his face into the other’s stomach and lets his tears fall free. As clear as his wet voice could sound, he continues, “Bring me the boy I fell in love with; the one who has my heart. He who is willing to give everything up for me, the one who suffered for so long all for my own sake.” When a hand hesitatingly landed on his hair, he looked up with swirling hope and met soft, olive green eyes, “Please, bring back Shikanoin Heizou.”

He watched as his throat bobbed in a gulp, then felt the hand not on his hair slide to the back of his bleeding palm and stay there. “..You love me?”

“I do.” He confirmed without hesitation, nodding as best as he could in his current position.

Fingers began to run themselves through his hair, causing yet another tear to slide down his cheek, “..How long?”

“Since we first met.” It was always there, he realized. That fondness. It was so natural, he simply never noticed.

He hummed, “..How did we meet?”

At this, Kazuha couldn’t help but smile as he planted his cheek against his stomach and wrapped his left arm around his waist, “..I helped you with a case a few times, before the Vision Hunt Decree was enacted.”

“We became friends immediately?” He asked curiously, to which Kazuha nodded. Another hum, “Do you - do you still love me, even when I’m not.. myself?”

In response, Kazuha tightened his hold and closed his eyes, listening to the slowing raindrops. The storm was finally coming to an end. “Don’t I love you now?”

“But you want him to come back.” He spoke, voice warbled with raw emotion. “Doesn’t that mean that you don’t love me, but you love Shikanoin Heizou instead?”

“Oh, but you are him, Zouzou.” He could sense the hesitance in the other’s movements, so he looked up once more, firmly making eye contact with flitting olivine orbs, proving his sincerity, “I love all of you, whether you’re a sharp and witty detective, or an innocent and kind boy. I love you."

"But this - this is only one part of you.” He leaned back and cradled the hand now on his cheek, loosening his hold on the dull vision, ”So won’t you let me love you? All of you?”

Finally, finally, he felt his hand sliding across his bandages, past the wet blood stains, but stopped right before it could brush against the vision. Worry flooded his being. Was Heizou going to back out now? His stomach jumped as the hand clenched itself together, so close to touching the ornament. “I’m scared.” He whispered, “What if I don’t want to remember?”

“It'll be alright, I'm here with you.” He still seemed terrified, so Kazuha took his hand, “I won’t leave you, okay?”

He pulled away and Kazuha’s breath was stuck in his throat, heart pounding with urgency. Did he fail? Should he have forced him to take it after all? When the boy walked off to grab something on the ground, then head back to Kazuha, all tension leaked out of him with a sigh. His knees were crawling with ants by now, but he didn’t want to intimidate the other, so he stayed where he was.

“Here, let’s do a trade. An eye for an eye.” He offered the glowing vision to him and Kazuha agreed with a smile.

“An eye for an eye.” He took his own vision with his left hand, then watched with bated breath as Heizou grabbed his own-

-and tilted sideways as soon as he did. Kazuha swiftly caught him and lowered him to the ground, watching anxiously as the other’s expression twisted in pain. Come on, Heizou. Come back to me.

The rain had fully stopped now, nothing more than a few wayward droplets. As the clouds parted, revealing the afternoon sun, light shone upon Heizou and made his pale skin seem as if it were glowing. Kazuha let himself bask in his beauty and brush his unwounded finger underneath his eye, against that perfectly placed mole. He’d read about it once. If he wasn’t mistaken, the location of the mole says that its owner was sensitive and prone to overthinking even the slightest issues. So fitting.

“What are you thinking about?” Kazuha’s eyes widened and it felt as if the world had blurred together, leaving only the two of them. He watched with parted lips as the boy smirked; as those eyes opened to reveal shining, mischievous gemstones.

He couldn’t help the next words that escaped his mouth, “That you’re breathtaking.” Neither could he help the wobbly smile, nor the dam from breaking yet again upon the red flush riding the other’s cheeks. He hiccups and leans down to take the other into his hold, “I love you, Heizou. I love you so much.”

“..I love you too.” He whispered and Kazuha couldn’t help the sappy grin that stretched his face. “Ngh, stop with your tears. You’re gonna make me cry..” He complained, but still rubs soothing circles into his back. He simply held onto him tighter, watching as the spring waters twinkled like stars under the light of the sun.

His Heizou had returned, and Kazuha was not leaving him any time soon.