Work Text:
Karasu almost collapsed as he roughly coughed, and his entire body shook at the sudden action. This wasn’t any regular cough, and Karasu realized that after seeing blood spatter onto his palms, and flower petals fall into his hands.
Karasu was in complete bewilderment. Not only had he just lost a match, but now he was coughing up blood and flowers.
His eyes stared at the flowers present in his palm, and they didn’t leave. Those blue eyes analyzed every single inch of that flower, from the striking yellow color to the curls of the petals, and a long green stem, all parts of the flower cut into tiny pieces.
“What the fuck.”
Karasu could only mutter that one sentence in utter astonishment, the situation dawning on him more and more as time passed.
It was only a few seconds, a minute at most, but as he stared at the flowers in his hand it felt like years had passed. His mind raced faster than time itself as he went through the possibilities —but it was futile. It was clear what had happened, and what disease Karasu had contracted. There was only one explanation for the flowers that pried their way out of his lungs, and that was hanahaki disease.
..
“We’re gonna kick some ass today.” Shidou grinned cheekily as he cracked his knuckles. He stood next to Karasu on the field, the two stretching during the pregame.
Karasu laughed at the obvious statement, “Of course we are.”
Karasu’s eyes observed the opponents. Some he recognized from Blue Lock, but others were unfamiliar to him. He’d seen the blonde guy with the choppy haircut and blue tops. How could you not when a video of him calling his teammates “peasants” went viral.
That guy rubbed him the wrong way. He was a great soccer player, that was obvious, if he wasn’t he wouldn’t be there, but what confused him more was the pink haired boy latched to his side. Alexis Ness. He’d heard the name from Shidou.
The two stayed up late last night alongside a few other members of the PXG Team Nanase, Rin, Zantetsu, and Loki. They studied, rewatched, and scanned every second of footage to learn about the Bastard München members. It was important in order to beat them. This game was one that they needed to win. Despite having no losses Karasu knew he’d need to go all out, and prove himself in this game if he wanted a chance to make the U-20 game. It was hard when he was playing alongside Rin and Shidou, some of the best players in Blue Lock. Karasu came up with a different strategy though, instead of trying to gain all the spotlight from being a striker he’d play other positions, and use his smarts to be noticed by clubs. On the field he was able to easily analyze his teammates and opponents. Their flaws and strengths clear as day, and Karasu would use this information to benefit him.
“That guy…” Karasu murmured, “…the pink-haired one. Why does he stick alongside Kaiser? Do ya’ know?” Karasu asked as his eyes met Shidou’s pink ones.
Shidou cackled at the question, “No idea.”
Karasu sighed but he couldn’t be all too shocked by this, and instead he let a grin fall on his lips.
“Of course ya’ don’t. He’s a really good midfielder…if he stopped standing in Kaiser’s shadow he could be something great.”
Shidou raised an eyebrow at the words Karasu said.
“Really?” Shidou asked, “I didn’t know you analyzed the enemy team so much.”
“It’s not simply analyzing— plus it’s obvious . Did ya’ not pay attention last night?” Karasu sighed, rubbing his temples at the ridiculous accusation.
“What?! I did. I just didn’t pay much attention to him..” Shidou grumbled in response. He shoved his hands into his pocket, and then he looked at Ness, “Although…you are right.”
Karasu nodded, “I want to see the type of midfielder he’d be by himself.” Karasu commented with a smirk, and clear interest in the other.
Shidou nodded along with his words, and then they took their positions as the match was about to begin.
Karasu knew that he would spend this game analyzing most of his opponents, but especially that midfielder that grabbed his attention. His curiosity was sparked by his intelligent plays and captivating dribbling.
Ness was more spectacular than Karasu expected. His brain was running wild as he watched each move he would make. A worthy opponent difficult to predict, and such a beautiful style of football.
Such a surreal game yet— yet Karasu was still sitting on the ground in frustration after a loss. A close game three to four… three to four. They were so close, but close would never be enough because as the whistle blew the game came to an end.
That midfielder who caught his attention as they watched game footage last night. That was the only person in his mind, what an amazing player, and someone who defeated Karasu in such an elegant way. Karasu knew he wouldn’t disappoint, but it wasn’t like he could say anything. Before he knew it Ness was gone, and Karasu was left alone with his sulking teammates and cheering winners.
Shidou walked over to Karasu stretching out his ark, and helping the other up. His eyes never met his, and Shidou was still gazing out upon the field.
“Hm.” Shidou hummed, “You were right.”
“Huh?”
“He was better than I expected.” Shidou elaborated, then he was quick to speak again, “Most of them were…” Shidou clarified.
Karasu returned to the locker room after the game alongside his teammates. He changed lethargically, and then he strolled down the hallways of the France stratum. The final rankings would be announced soon, and Karasu dreaded it. His heart pounded and his limbs went weak at the thought of it. The high probability that he wouldn’t be in the top five haunted him. Fear overtaking his body.
Karasu shook his head, bringing himself back to reality, and then he walked into the restroom, over to the sink where he splashed ice cold water onto his face. He needed to calm down. Stressing himself out wouldn’t change the situation, nor the potential outcome.
Then his body went weak as multiple overwhelming feelings washed over him. His back harshly hit the wall as he held himself up. One hand against the wall, and the other cupping his mouth.
Karasu almost collapsed as he roughly coughed, and his entire body shook at the sudden action. This wasn’t any regular cough, and Karasu realized that after seeing blood spatter onto his palms, and flower petals fall into his hands.
Karasu was in complete bewilderment. Not only had he just lost a match, but now he was coughing up blood and flowers.
His eyes stared at the flowers present in his palm, and they didn’t leave. Those blue eyes analyzed every single inch of that flower, from the striking yellow color to the curls of the petals, and a long green stem, all parts of the flower cut into tiny pieces.
“What the fuck.”
Karasu could only mutter that one sentence in utter astonishment, the situation dawning on him more and more as time passed.
It was only a few seconds, a minute at most, but as he stared at the flowers in his hand it felt like years had passed. His mind raced faster than time itself as he went through the possibilities —but it was futile. It was clear what had happened, and what disease Karasu had contracted. There was only one explanation for the flowers that pried their way out of his lungs, and that was hanahaki disease.
He clutched his palms as he continued to process the situation. His mouth was agape, and no words were uttered audibly or in his mind. Karasu was at a complete loss for words.
I mean it’s not everyday you grow a plant in your lungs .
Karasu hastily shoved his fists in his pockets, discarding the flowers in there, and then he washed his hands and mouth. Trying to erase any traces of evidence.
He left the restroom in a rush trying to keep his composure, but in reality he was melting on the inside. His mind was blank, and he was in complete and utter confusion.
Karasu was no idiot, he knew what was going on, but what he didn’t have was the why? That question needed to be answered.
He waltzed down the hallway back to the shared bedroom in the France stratum. Occasionally passing teammates on their way to eat dinner, or take an after game bath.
When he entered the room he sighed in relief as his eyes fell upon only one person in the room, Shidou Ryusei. Not the most trusting person, but right now he needed to tell someone. It’d eat at him for the rest of the night— keep him up if he didn’t spill the information.
“Shidou.”
Shidou perked his head up, he was painting his nails on the bed, hand resting upon his knee, “Karasu.” He spoke aloud repeating the jester. His eyes glanced back down at his hand as he continued his work.
“Yer’ not gonna’ believe this. ”
Karasu spoke the sentence as if it were some light hearted joke, or a crazy observation that wouldn’t have much meaning a week or two from now. That, of course, wasn’t the truth.
“Hm?” Shidou hummed, despite being occupied with another task it was clear he was still listening, even intrigued by the statement Karasu had said.
Karasu took a seat on his own bed which just so happened to be right next to Shidou’s. He sat on the edge, one leg on the floor, and the other resting atop his knee.
“I think I have hanahaki.”
Although he said it as if he were confused. Karasu knew there was no other explanation for what had happened in the bathroom. There was a plant growing in his lungs, and at any moment it could attempt to pry its way out.
Shidou halted his movements, and he slowly tilted his head towards Karasu, an evident look of horror and astonishment lay present on his face. His facial features rearranged themselves quickly, changing each moment as he tried to process the unbelievable information that was dropped on him just a few seconds prior.
His mouth would lie agape, then he would scramble to find his words, but what do you say when you find out your friend has a possible life ending disease.
“Are you fucking with me?”
Shidou asked bluntly, his usually joking tone wasn’t present, and he was obviously looking for a serious answer. If the horror on his face wasn’t enough to prove this already.
Karasu shook his head. He was trying to stay calm, but seeing Shidou’s reaction— how mind-boggled he was by the news only made the fear in him grow more.
It wasn’t unknown that hanahaki disease was one of pure torture, and terror for the person who was unlucky enough to be cursed with it.
The curse of unrequited love.
A disease that’ll either take your life, or your life but in a different sense.
There are only a few ways to get rid of hanahaki, a cure, but one on the list is far from a “cure.” Reciprocated feelings are the best outcome . If the person you love falls for you before the plant overtakes your lungs, killing you, then the hanahaki disease will disappear on its own. Surgery is the equivalent to taking your life while also not taking it at the same time. Although you’re cured you will never be able to love that person again no matter how hard you try. So you may live, but you lose a piece of your life in the process. The last way is the most brutal and it is death. People who do not complete the other two options will eventually pass away. The plant overtakes their lungs making it impossible to breathe, and the disease bearer ends up dying because of this. Without their feelings ever being reciprocated. This final solution is dying in a literal sense.
“No.” Karasu answered.
Shidou nodded, he knew the other wasn’t lying, what was there to gain in pulling such a foolish joke? One that would leave your friends distraught rather than having a quick laugh.
Karasu sighed, “I don’t get it.”
“What do you mean?”
“I don’t know why this is happening. I don't even know who it is.” Karasu explained his reasons with the click of his tongue. Right now it didn’t feel real, and Karasu hoped it was some unlikely fluke that’ll never happen again. Along with the possibility that he was so worn out his mind fabricated pictures of flowers. Portrayed them through his eyes, and onto the palms of his hand.
That would never be true though.
There were no cases of “unlikely flukes,” and the flowers in his pocket made it evident that it indeed did happen.
“Seriously…?”
Karasu nodded, “I’m telling ya’ it only began after the game…that’s why it makes no sense to me. I don’t know if there’s a correlation or something.” Karasu answered, “I don’t know if the type of flower means anything but here.” Karasu took the small broken petals out of his pocket, holding them in his hand, and out on display for Shidou to see.
“I—“ Shidou was at a loss for words as his eyes fell upon the evidence that what Karasu said was really the truth. His eyes darted up and down from the sight of the flower petals to the man who’d coughed them up, “I have no idea.”
“Thought that…is it worth keeping it a secret?”
Shidou tilted his head to the side in a confused manner.
“I mean…it can probably affect my ranking if clubs find out…right?” Obviously. Karasu elaborated.
“Yeah. So just don’t tell anyone, easy?” Shidou made the statement sarcastically, “No ones gonna’ pay any mind to the guy practically throwing up blood in the middle of the field.
Karasu rolled his eyes despite knowing that what Shidou said was very true.
“Now who it could be is your next issue.” Shidou said, offering his genuine advice, “I’ve never seen any case where someone didn’t know who they fell for.” Shidou laughed. He didn’t mean it in a degrading way, more so shock, and an attempt at trying to lighten up the situation.
Karasu laughed slightly along with the words. He didn’t know if he found it humorous, or if he was so shocked the situation itself was funny.
“Hiori Yo, maybe?” Shidou offered up the name of the first candidate.
“Hm?” Karasu hummed a confused response.
“You two used to know each other before Blue Lock right? So there’s history. Just sayin’ it’s a possibility.”
“I guess…” Although Karasu knew there were no romantic feelings between them.
Shidou put the bottle of nail polish onto the floor, snd then he flopped on his back. He sighed as he spoke, “I have no other candidates.”
“Me neither.”
“Hopefully you find out soon then!”
“Mhm.” Karasu hummed and then he stood up, “I’m going to get painkillers. I have a terrible headache.”
..
It was when he was strolling down the hallways. Back to the dorms. When he happened to bump into an unlikely person near the France stratums.
Some came into view. More specifically a person he played against— they were on the Germany team, and they gave a small wave, grin as well as Karasu walked by. Karasu did the same, but he halted his movement as he felt a rush of flowers attempt to escape from his mouth.
His entire body freezed, and then he was moving once more. Far faster than a simple stroll .
He swallowed the petals down, and turned the corner, shielding himself whilst he coughed up a bloody mixture into his hands. He clenched his fists full of blood, saliva and petals and practically ran to the nearest bathroom.
“Alexis Ness…” he thought, “There was no way.”
Seven days to make you fall in love with me
Karasu ate breakfast in a bad mood. He yawned, he groaned, he outright showed he was unhappy. Shidou enthusiastically patted his back telling his friend inaudibly just to feel better.
As if he could.
How could such an intelligent man like his brain fabricate— feel such romantic feelings towards another who’s so clearly infatuated with a different man.
Micheal Kaiser. The talented blonde who was on the opposing team. Everyone— everyone knew that Ness happened to be into him, and Karasu mentally beat himself up over this clear fact.
His love was impossible as he’d like to put it. How could someone take such love away from Ness.
Ness is dedicated to Kaiser, following his every move, and clinging to his side. It was as if their hearts were connected, sharing veins, and a simple cut could kill both on the spot.
Two lives that are entwined with one another, held together by a chain, locked with a key, and Karasu had no such key to pry the chains open.
“Lighten up, Ka—ra—su!” Shidou cheered with a grin, continuingly to harshly pat his back.
“Shut up.”
Shidou sighed, giving up his cheerful attempts, “What happened?” He asked in a low whisper.
The others at the table continued their conversation, and Karasu sighed as well, whispering, “It’s Ness.”
Shidou’s eyes widened, and he tried to stop the expression from finding its way onto his face. Alexis Ness?!
Any attempt they made to be discreet was not working because Rin raised an eyebrow at the two.
The two who were ducked down, and had hands in front of their mouths, gossiping like little girls.
“What?” Rin asked but his annoyed tone came out more as a demand.
“Nothing.” Shidou replied quickly before slamming both hands over his mouth, “We’re not making fun of you this time Rinrin!”
Rin sighed and continued to poke his food, ignoring the two, and their strange but foolish antics.
“Don’t be late to practice idiot.” Rin said, staring directly at Shidou as he stood up, leaving breakfast early.
Nanase and Zantetsu were still present, but Karasu could only rest his head on top of the table ignoring the others.
One week until the U-20 world cup…one week of practice.
“Seven days to make him fall in love with me.” Karasu mumbled as he traced circles on the cold table with his pointer finger. Karasu frowned as he did, just the thought of the disease made him upset.
“Hm?”
Karasu ignored the question, and his mind wandered to other branches of the same topic. There was no point in trying to deny his feelings. Karasu realized in just one night without sleep, last night, that he loved more than Ness’s style of soccer.
Karasu needed to see him again, to make up an excuse, but what could he say? He didn’t want to straight up say, “Hey I’m in love with ya’! That’s why I have this life ending disease!” With a large dopey grin on his lips. Surely that wouldn’t scare him away!
“Get up, Karasu, practice. Don’t want Rin-chan upset.” Shidou nudged him with a grin.
Karasu got up and he followed him, throwing away the food on his tray, he hadn’t eaten, he didn’t have an appetite to be more specific. Instead he stared at his food as if it were a piece of art. In trance by the meal that sat on the blue tray. Definitely. He definitely wasn’t thinking about that boy he loves. Who doesn’t love him back.
Karasu lethargically walked to practice next to Shidou. He’s only coughed up flowers one more time since the first incident, and he prayed that he wouldn't during practice today.
If only Rin let them skip. He wasn’t even captain, but he was scarier than Loki.
He was already on the field warming up before the others arrived. Other members of the Paris X Gen team were warming up alongside him on the field.
Karasu’s throat was scratchy, I doubt you’ve ever coughed up pieces of a plant, but the different parts of it; petals, stem, leaves, ect, cut the lining of his throat on the way up. Not to mention the fact that he struggled to sleep last night. When he finally fell into a slumber he was awoken by the urge to cough up the plant in his throat.
Exhausted and in pain, sore from the game the previous game, and devastated from the unfortunate loss. Not an ideal combination for this practice.
Additionally the fear that the others would find out— or the clubs. Every movement in the facility is watched by cameras broadcasting it live on BLTV.
Practice was a simple three versus three. Zantetsu,
Rin, and Karasu versus Nanase, Shidou, and Loki. It wasn’t an official practice but something Loki set up because he didn’t want Blue Lock’s prodigies to fall behind.
It went as normal, nothing unordinary, no flukes. Karasu was playing as normal, as he would in any other game or practice, but he knew this would happen. He knew Shidou’s statement would become reality.
Mid sprint his movement came to a halt as he doubled over. The coughs felt the same as puking. The urge to do the action, as the plants pried their way out of his throat, searching for freedom.
Karasu swallowed them down, but his head began to spin as he did. A bitter metallic taste filling his mouth.
“Karasu!” Nanase shouted in shock. Everyone on the field stopped moving at the sudden change in his demeanor.
Nanase ran over to the boy. Karasu held his mouth over his mouth, eyes darted around the field, he needed Shidou to take him to the infirmary. He was the only one who knew about this serious secret.
“Here…I’ll take him to the infirmary sub me out for someone else—“
“Rin-chan let me.”
“No.” Rin stated, “You’ve been slacking lately. If you ever want to be on the same level as me you need practice.” He said harshly to Shidou, and then he walked over to Karasu.
Karasu never removed his hands from his mouth. Even as they walked, painfully suppressing the action, and not allowing it to be done as he walked side by side with Rin of all people.
Why would he even offer to do this?
Karaus let out a few muffled coughs as he continued to swallow frequently until he couldn’t no more. He almost choked on the mixture of blood and saliva far too many times.
“Knew there was something up with you.” Rin commented. He was smart, observant, and Karasu knew he shouldn’t have been surprised when he’d make such a statement.
Karasu couldn’t respond because he knew if he opened his mouth flowers would flood up.
“Just do it.”
Karaus raised an eyebrow at the others' words.
Rin sighed, “Flowers on Shidou’s nightstand.” He clarified, “You have hanahaki right? That’s why your holding your mouth shut like an idiot right now.”
Karasu gave up his futile attempts and then he coughed up a disgusting mixture into the palm of his hand. Painfully. A hoarse cough, and many more flowers that the prior times. Blood spilled onto his hands, staining them, and the flowers were bloodied, cut, and ugly.
Rin was clearly disgusted by the action despite knowing it was going to happen.
“Don’t—” Karasu said between coughs. “—say—anything.” He muttered as he finished his rough coughing fit.
Rin denied that request and he spoke.
“Falling in love while trying to become the best. Lukewarm.”
“Don’t say shit like that when ya’ clearly have some sort of infatuation with Shidou.” Karasu retaliated frustratedly, he wasn’t going to take anything from this sixteen year old emo, “Have some manners will ya’ I’m dying.”
Although Karasu said he’d die as a lighthearted joke there was more weight in his words than the others. It is a fatal disease for some.
Rin clicked his tongue, choosing not to argue anymore with Karasu.
“Save your breath. We’re almost at the infirmary.”
Karasu was tempted to mimic his words in a mocking tone, but for once he’d listen. Maybe he’d get a little information about the closed-off Itoshi Rin ’s love life too.
When they entered the room Karasu threw himself onto the uncomfortable bed. One of those hospital beds with those terrible mattresses, and sheets that left you freezing cold, providing no warmth to your body.
“What do I even give you?” Rin asked. There was no nurse there which Karasu was thankful for, but neither knew what could stop. If there was anything at all.
“Pain killers,” Karasu offered, “And some information on ya’ love life too.” He said with raised eyebrows, and a trading smirk.
Rin slammed the cabinet door shut, “There is none.” Rin threw the bottle at Karasu and then said, “So keep your mouth shut.”
Karasu let out a breathy laugh, “Yer’ a terrible liar.”
“You’re not any better.” Rin sighed, annoyed, “Pretty sure Loki knows too, and Nanase could’ve guessed it just off of the fit mid-match.
“Not much I can do. There's cameras everywhere, people everywhere, and zero privacy in this facility.”
Rin didn’t audibly answer, but he nodded, showing his understanding. He wasn’t one for long conversations, but he’d say a few words from time to time.
“What’re you going to do?”
“No clue.”
Rin almost grinned, laughed at the idiotic statement, “No clue. You’re just going to rot away over this?” Rin scoffed, yet he was still amused by Karasu’s foolishness, “Ego might pay for your surgery…or you could just confess.”
“Lose feelings or get rejected. Great options Rin.”
Rin rolled his eyes.
“He’s so in love with someone else…that might kill me before the hanahaki does.”
Rin raised an eyebrow at the solemn declaration. One that was filled with truth. Far from a lie.
“Who is it?”
Karasu let out a hoarse life at the question, “Wouldn’t ya’ like to know.” Karasu took a deep breath, “I’ll tell ya’ if ya’ tell me what’s going on between—“
“No.”
“I didn’t even finish my sentence…so there is something going on.” Karasu assumed teasingly with twinkling eyes. Feeling satisfied that his speculations were true.
“I never said that.”
“But I never mentioned anyone.” Karasu retalitated, “Automatically assuming Shidou.”
“You mentioned him earl—“
“Ya’ like Shidou yeah, yeah.” Karasu answered for him, “Just tell him— actually you’ll never come to terms with yer’ feelings nevermind . It’s just so obvious that he’s into you.”
“Shut it, crow.”
Rin rolled his eyes, growing more frustrated with the other as each second passed.
“Tell me. Who is it.”
“Ness. Alexis Ness. Ha-ha, laugh, whatever.” Karasu answered quickly as his face grew flustered. He never expected to be admitting something like this, especially to Rin of all people.
“Ness…?”
Karasu nodded instead of giving an audible answer, one of his hands covered the bottom of his face
“Isn’t he…dating that blonde prick?”
Karasu sighed, upset, “I don’t know. If he’s not now he most likely will be soon.”
“You know…I didn’t think I’d ever understand what went on in a brain like yours, but now I think I can comprehend why you said you have no clue what to do.”
“Pfft. I don’t want to hear that from ya.’ Shidou lover.” Karasu laughed at the silly nickname.
Rin rolled his eyes again, clicking his tongue, but he didn’t respond— argue with Karasu this time.
“I’ll tell Loki you went to lay down. Go get some rest.” Rin said as he stood up.
“Yeah. Thanks.”
Rin only turned around and headed for the door. Opening it and entering the secluded hallway. Each footstep echoing as they walked down the empty hallways.
At dinner later in the evening Karasu felt worse. He didn’t want to eat. The fear of coughing up flowers whilst swallowing his food sounded horrible. Absolutely disgusting.
Not to mention both Shidou and Rin knew his secret. Although Rin’s words still rang loud in his ears, and he was paranoid that Nanase and Loki knew. Not Zantetsu though…he’s rather… stupid. In the most polite way possible of course.
He was right to do so because soon enough he was covering his mouth as he coughed up flowers into the napkin. Sighing as he saw a red color take over the white.
“I’m going back to the room.” Karasu announced. He stood up and he threw away his uneaten food along with the blood soaked napkin.
The view of those flowers and the taste of blood still present in his mouth was enough to get rid of his appetite.
Day 2
Another day of waking up after a terrible night of sleep. Karasu lost count of how many times he woke up coughing up a mess of plant parts. It was disgusting everytime. The mix of blood, saliva, and minuscule petals that wouldn’t leave his mouth made him sick.
Shidou threw a pillow at him multiple times that night. He had woken him up with his loud coughs far too many times.
Karasu sighed as he stayed in the room. The others went to breakfast, showers, and practice. But Karasu didn’t want anyone else to find out about this terrible disease.
Afternoon was rolling by and the trash can was filled with bloody tissues, and flower petals, a gross mixture.
“Hey idiot.” Shidou greeted as he walked in the room.
“What?”
“How’re you doing?” Shidou asked as he took a seat on his own bed, “Loki said I should check on you.”
“Awful. In agony.”
Shidou sighed, he knew what the answer would be, “Has surgery crossed your mind yet.”
“Isn’t that terrible… and expensive.”
“I guess.” Shidou answered, unsure not knowing the true answer, “What’re you going to do then?”
“Fuck I don’t know.” Karasu sighed.
For such an intelligent person his mind went blank when searching for solutions.
There was a pause and then an awkward silence between the two as neither had anything to say.
Then there was a light, a glimmer of hope in Karasu’s eyes, “Do you think I could make him fall in love with me?”
“Before we leave? You want me to be honest…I have no idea. Kaiser’s definitely an obstacle.” Shidou answered honestly, giving his genuine opinion.
“Mhm…”
“But you should attempt it at least.”
“I will.”
That was how Karasu came up with his master plan of attempting to make Ness fall in love with him.
After begging Loki to schedule a practice match for later that evening, Karasu's plan was in motion.
It was simply an easy plan that Shidou definitely didn’t make fun of him for. All he needed to do was ridicule Kaiser, and then Ness would have his eyes on him. Easy. Right?
Wrong.
Turns out no matter how many times Karasu tells himself that this task will be simple, and that Kaiser is a stupid idiot it won't magically become reality.
“Shidou help me out here.” Karasu spat the whisper as he passed the other on the field.
Shidou nodded and the two corner Kaiser. Leaving another player open, but that didn’t matter.
As the ball was passed to Kaiser, Karasu was quick to steal it. Shidou may have helped, but Karasu would take full credit.
The match ended in a draw.
Karasu despite being worn out, the plant taking a toll on his ability to breathe. Karasu swiftly walked over to the other side of the field.
There stood a boy with a head of pink hair, a joyful grin, and his arms behind his back. His eyes were the same color as his hair, a beautiful dark shade of pink that would glimmer as he spoke to Kaiser. A light in his eyes that Karasu wanted directed towards him.
Karasu strolled over without a care in the world. Not even the thought of “Hey if you start a coughing fit right now you might cough up blood all over Ness.”
“Hey.” Karasu called with one of his typical smirky grins on his face.
Ness turned his head, confused, then he pointed a finger to himself, mouthing, “me?”
Karasu nodded and then he walked closer to Ness. The two standing a comfortable distance away from each other.
“Ya’ should practice with me sometime, yeah?” Karasu asked more as a bold statement.
“Mhm?” Ness grinned as he hummed the response, “Why is that? Do you think you compare to Kaiser?”
“Don’t know,’ that’s for ya’ to decide.” Karasu responded with a breathy laugh, at the same time though he felt the urge to cough. Petals and blood climbing up his throat and into his mouth.
Karasu swallowed quickly, and he attempted to keep his composure.
“Mhm.” Ness repeated his former response, then his smile grew, “I might have to play with you sometime then.” Ness beamed, then he turned around leaving Karasu on the field.
Karasu internally was celebrating, but on the outside he was roughly coughing a disgusting mix of flowers into his hands.
..
Steam filled the air of the room. Water splashing, a calm conversation, and a few people sat in the water of the baths.
“Repulsive.” Rin commented at the mention of Karasu’s disease.
Karasu let out an awkward laugh, and he rested his head against the cold tiles behind his head. The hot bath water warmed his body, emitting steam as he held his hand up.
“I can’t control it.” Karasu responded, continuing his gentle laugh. He swatted his hand as he spoke, and let and idle smile fall on his face.
Just the thought of Ness made him feel like this. Possible practice with Ness in the future made his heart flutter, and he feared that it would leave his chest one day.
Karasu having hanahaki makes a lot more sense now.
“Don’t be so mean Rin-chan!” Shidou responded, “Karasu here might die.” He said lightheartedly.
Rin sighed, “Karasu got blood on the field, dumbass, and I had to clean it up.”
“Should I call you janitor Rin from now on?” Shidou asked with a cheeky grin.
“I’ll hit you.”
“Don’t want to get blood in the baths, Rin.” Karasu commented.
Rin scowled and he shut his eyes as he relaxed into the warmth. Shidou continued to bother him though. Splashing water at him, and hitting him with a towel occasionally.
“What do I do…if he accepts my practice request?”
“Why’re you asking us? Neither of us have relationship experience, Karasu.” Rin replied with furrowed brows, “Relationships are distractions from becoming the best.”
Karasu laughed, “Oh I don’t want to hear that from ya’?”
“Hm?” Shidou hummed with interest, “Does Rinrin have a crush?” He sing-songed with a teasing grin on his face.
“No.”
Rin shoved Shidou’s face, pushing him away from him, and sternly answering the question. He glared at Karasu who continued to make the same assumption about the two.
“Yeah, yeah, whatever.”
“Just compliment him, tell him he's so amazing, and make fun of Kaiser!” Shidou answered with a gleeful tone of voice. He swayed as he spoke the words, over-exaggerating his actions, and continuing to splash Rin with water.
Rin rubbed his temples as he listened to Shidou’s advice, “Quickest way to never see him again…”
“What! Rin-chan! My advice is great!”
“Get a room.” Karasu sighed.
“We’re not flirting!” Rin shouted, “If you think that’s flirting you actually have no chance.”
Shidou cackled at the uncharacteristic response from the younger. He relaxed once more, and he faced Karasu with a wide grin. One of those grins that screamed bad news.
“What?” Karasu asked unamused as Shidou burned him with his stare.
“You should just tell him you have hanahaki!”
“Are you fucking stupid?” Rin and Karasu asked the other in unison. Karasu began laughing at the idiotic advice given by Shidou.
“What—?” Shidou asked, dragging out the word.
“ That’s — we’ve never interacted before this so why the fuck would I tell him I love him.” Karasu asked.
“I don’t know!? It sounded good!”
“Karasu don’t take advice from this insect…” Rin sighed, shaking his head in disbelief by the terrible advice Shidou had provided.
“Wow Rin!” Shidou crossed his arms, “This is why your love life is in shambles.”
“I’ll kill you.”
..
Day 3
Shidou whistled as they walked down the halls. Hands behind his head, and a happy smile on his face.
“Why are ya’ acting like this?”
Karasu only asked the question because it was clear that Shidou wanted him to. The change in demeanor was obvious, but Shidou gets excited over everything so Karasu didn’t pay much mind. But the obnoxious unusually loud whistling, and a smile so wide his cheekbones would hurt later was a clear sign that obviously something big happened.
“Hm…? Oh nothing.”
“Shut up and tell me.”
“It’s nothing. I’m serious!” Shidou answered, “You should give me one of the flowers next time you—y’know.”
“Fuck is wrong with ya’?” Karasu asked at the sick request. He looked at Shidou dumbfounded at the disgusting words he said.
“Huh? I just wanted to know what type of flower it is! In case it has meaning.”
“Oh.”
“Yeah.”
“Okay. I’ll let ya’ know next time I do.” Karasu answered with a shrug of his shoulders.
“Do you think you can do it on command?” Shidou asked as they turned the corner, entering the door to the cafeteria.
“Yer’ sick.”
Shidou cackled at the response Karasu gave him, once they got their trays of food the two went and sat down with Zantetsu.
Zantetsu, another speedy member of the Paris X Gen team, and the biggest idiot alongside Shidou. Black hair styled in a middle part, fake glasses, and a serious look on his face.
Right after joining the team Shidou found out quickly that he finds it fun to tease the other. At first he believed he was some genius with a large brain, but after one conversation he came to the conclusion that, that was not true.
Zantetsu was happily eating like an idiot at the table, and the others began a conversation with him.
“How are you doing health wise, Karasu?”
“Fine.” Karasu answered as he stabbed his food with a chopstick. In reality that wasn’t the case because the fits were becoming more frequent.
Karasu sighed and he rested his arms on the cold table, palm of his hand placed against his cheek.
“Hey Zantetsu, what advice would you give to someone trying to get another to love them?” Shidou asked. Karasu wanted to punch him, and tell him to shut his mouth. Karasu knew better than to try, and get any advice from the guys here at Blue Lock.
Zantetsu moved his hand to the front of his face, middle finger pressing his glasses further up his nose bridge. He paused for a moment pondering the wonderful advice he’d provide to his teammates.
Karasu could only wait for the response to leave his mouth, and he’d be flabbergasted if any of the advice was helpful.
“I’d say in order to swoon a person, one, like yourself, should learn every detail about them from likes and dislikes. Then use said information to make them fall for you.” Zantetsu replied.
“Wait. Why was that more helpful than the advice ya’ gave me.”
It was obvious advice, but Zantetsu was right.
Shidou sighed and then he let out a chuckle, “Yeah you’re right.”
“Hand me that.” Karasu pointed to the napkins with a rasp in his voice.
In that moment he felt the flower travel from his lungs to his throat, and he placed multiple napkins in front of his mouth as he coughed up the plant. The amount of petals have doubled since the first time along with the blood.
Karasu nonchalantly got up and threw away the napkin, keeping a few bloodied petals safe in his pocket.
He sat back done, not touching his food, the earthy taste of the plant mixed with the metallic taste of blood took his appetite away in an instant.
Zantetsu stared at him in confusion, but Karasu didn’t comment on the action.
“Ya’ want to practice with us later, Zantetsu? Two versus two. We can invite Rin or Nanase too.”
“Sure. It is good to maintain a steady habit when it comes to exercise. Karasu, Shidou, make sure not to overtrain the results of that will only be negative. One may think exercising passed the limits will grant them more strength, but in reality—“
“Please stop.”
“—you may feel exhausted, drained, and you end up being more prone to injury.” Zantetsu continued his explanation despite the pleas for him to stop.
“Yeah…just meet us in the field in about an hour.”
Zantetsu nodded and then Karasu was leaving the cafeteria. He left his scraps there knowing one or both of them would eat his leftovers. He’d rather have that than his food going to waste.
Karasu leisurely walked down the hallways, making his way to the bathroom. He stepped in front of the sink his reflection in the wide mirror.
Karasu thought he looked like he usually did. Black hair angled with gel, cocky smirk on his lips turned into a frown as his eyes fell upon the heavy bags under his eyes. He was exhausted. Unable to sleep at night with this stupid disease.
As much as he wanted to hate it he couldn’t because it represented his love for Ness even if it was hurting him.
Karasu realized he knew nothing about Ness. All the information he had was related to football, but he wanted to know everything there was to know. Despite loving the way he played at first now he wanted to love him for everything.
And maybe if he did …his lungs would clear, and the plant slowly growing inside might disappear.
Karasu turned on the tap, running cold water into the linen colored sinks. He cupped his hands, filling them with water, and then he drank the water. He gargled it before spitting it back into the sink, the action cleaning the blood and small petals from his mouth. Then he splashed his face with the water.
Karasu sighed, drying his face on his shirt, and then he walked back to the dorm. Might as well get some rest before the practice.
Karasu sat in the grass, the blades of grass stabbing his unclothed legs. Discomfort from the constant poking feeling, but Karasu couldn’t care as he waited patiently for the others to show up.
Shidou and Rin walked in at the same time. Shidou talking Rin’s ear off about something irrelevant.
“Where’s Zantetsu?” Shidou asked as he approached Karasu, “Don’t want a two versus one, right Rin-chan?”
“You two are not playing on the same team.”
“What, why not? I want to team with Rinrin.”
“The former top two. No. Don’t ya’ argue all the time too?” Karasu asked rhetorically as he explained his reasons.
“Yeah disadvantage! So Rin and I versus you and Zantetsu?”
Karasu gave up on arguing with Shidou and he nodded. Now they need to wait for the final person to arrive.
They waited…and they waited…and they continued to wait.
The three sitting in a circle on the field, Shidou continues to blabber to Karasu and Rin about any topic on his mind.
Karasu tuning him out, and wondering where Zantetsu could possibly be. Karasu told him an hour from then when they left lunch so where is he? Did he fall in the hallway, and knock a tooth out? Is he sitting in the infirmary for another reason? No clue.
“Sorry I’m late, I read the clocks incorrectly.” Zantetsu apologized as he walked onto the field.
“What…?”
“I thought the big hand meant hours.” Zantetsu explained, the other three sighed, but they couldn’t be shocked. Typical Zantetsu.
“Let’s play!” Shidou cheered as he stood up, stretching his arms as he did so.
The lights of the shared bedroom were dimmed as evening came and it became later and later. Practice ended, and each member went to do their own things.
Karasu knew that other members of the PXG team most likely knew, or had their suspicions of his disease and he wasn’t surprised. He was coughing like crazy everywhere they went at every second of the day. At first it could be written off as a simple cold, but the amount of blood along with the intensity of each fit was only getting worse in such a short amount of time.
Even if Karasu had his own “issues” he couldn’t turn his head at whatever changed between his two teammates. A shift in demeanor from both that was so subtle, but still noticeable by Karasu.
Shidou sat on the edge of his bed, one leg on top of his knee and a flower in hand. Rin was sitting next to him, also on the edge, a comfortable distance between the two, hands on the mattress, and both legs on the floor.
The flower Shidou was holding was broken and dead. Its once bold yellow petals were cut, torn, and covered with splashes of blood. A once beautiful flower with frills and curls was destroyed, and nothing like it was before.
“So these are yellow tulips.” Shidou explained as he held the dead flower in his hand.
“I can't believe you would touch that.” Rin said repugnance as he watched Shidou toy with the flower that was once in Karasu’s lungs.
“Hm. It’s not that gross.” Shidou commented, Rin only rolled his eyes in response, “This flower means hopelessly in love. For a person who still believes in love no matter the struggle. Like you.”
“Uh huh…and where’d ya’ get that information from.”
“Google.”
“Thought so.” Karasu replied with a breathy laugh, “I guess it’s fitting. Despite having no chance, I'm still trying.” Karasu sighed at his stupidity laying down on his bed, and letting his legs dangle off the edge.
“Mhm. I don’t see why Ness wouldn’t fall for you. You’re Karasu!”
“What’s that supposed to mean?” Karasu asked with a raised eyebrow, and an amused smirk.
“You’re cool. Sometimes.”
“Thanks Shidou. Thanks.”
“While we’re on the topic of love…” Shidou began with a playful tone of voice. He turned his body towards the boy next to him ready to bombard him with questions, “…are you finally going to tell me who you love Rin-chan!?”
Rin shoved his shoulder, pushing him away, and then he muttered, “No. There is no one.”
“Whatever you say Rinrin .”
Rin could say that, but Karasu knew there was a shift between them. Rin was more “comfortable” as he’d describe it. Not to mention the fact that Karasu’s suspicions were practically proven true in the infirmary.
Karasu fell asleep not too long after that attempting to get as much sleep as possible before the flowers would wake him.
..
Day 4
The others were already gone by the time Karasu woke up, exhausted as always, a routine he’s made these last few days. With the constant waking up during the night it was to be expected.
At least the flowers were pretty… well maybe not when they’re covered in blood and saliva.
He’d begin practice late in the afternoon today. On his own he could improve by himself. Practice games with his teammates were fun, but right now he needed to focus on his weak spots.
The field was empty. The sun shining bright, illuminating the field, and a singular person standing below.
Karasu continued to repeat the same actions, replicating one shot, and making the goal at the same spot every time. He practiced his dribbling as well too, he’d do anything in his power to improve over these next few days.
“Hey.”
A familiar voice called, the person who the voice belonged to stood by the door. They were hunched over, arms leaning against the doorway, and they held two water bottles in hand.
Their pink-hair was the first feature Karasu noticed, then those soft eyes, and that gentle smile. As Karasu laid his eyes on the person, the said person began walking onto the field.
“Ness?! What’re ya’ doing here?” Karasu asked, bewildered. He didn’t expect to see the boy so soon— or at all! His eyes were wide, and an excited smile found its way onto his lips.
“You said you wanted to practice with me.” Ness grinned, his arms fell to his side as he held the water bottles in his hand. He inched closer and closer to Karasu, handing him one of the bottles, “Here.”
“Thanks.”
Karasu thanked him, and their fingers brushed as the interaction took place. A gentle touch that burned his skin. The feeling of Ness’s finger against his own even for a second left a tingling sensation in its place.
“Don’t want you at a disadvantage.” Ness grinned his eyes closed as he did, “You are going to prove that you’re better than Kaiser, right?”
“Of course I am.”
Karasu smirked egotistically as he made that statement. He was sure he’d be able to prove to Ness that he was far better than Michael Kaiser.
Ness grabbed the football from where it sat inside of the goal, he held it in his hand, and he walked over to the center of the field before placing it back onto the grass. Ness placed his foot on top of the ball, and he signaled for Karasu to come over there with his hand.
“Let’s play one on one.”
Karasu listened and he waltzed over to Ness standing on the other side of the football, “Alright.” He agreed. Karasu was sure he could win this, and finally he’d prove to Ness that he is worthy of his attention,
“Three…two….one.”
Karasu took the ball right from the start, trapping it under his foot, and he kicked it back as he backed up. Although he had possession of it Ness was pressing him. It didn’t matter which way he turned because Ness would still be there ready to steal the ball.
Karasu dribbled the ball in between his feet, and then he moved forward attempting to fake right before he’d kick the ball left and break through. It worked for a moment, but Ness was right beside him once more. Ness moved his leg forward, attempting to steal the ball from Karasu once more.
Karasu didn’t let him, and he continued to move forward until he was in shooting range.
Ness continued to block him from taking the shot, waiting for the perfect opportunity to steal the ball from Karasu.
Then the flowers left his lungs, ready to leave his throat at that very moment.
“Not right now…” Karasu thought to himself as his movements came to a halt.
Ness used the opportunity to take the ball, and Karasu let out a few muffled coughs. He tried to sprint and catch up with Ness, but the flowers and constant coughs would not let him.
Karasu put his hands in front of his mouth as he hoarsely coughed, collecting every flower before they’d fall onto the field. He couldn’t let those beautiful yellow tulips be seen by Ness’s eyes.
He knew blood stained the palms of his hands, but as the rough coughing fit came to an end he shoved his fists in his pockets. Karasu left the flowers in said pockets, and he took his hands out not much later. Faint blood stains were still visible.
“Uh, sorry! Give me a second will ya’?”
Ness had stopped his movement as he watched Karasu from afar. He nodded his head, and with that Karasu hastily walked down the hallways, he’d wash his hands, throw the flowers away, and then get back to practice with Ness.
Karasu hoped that Ness didn’t notice, that Ness wouldn’t pay any mind to the fit he had earlier. As he walked down the hallways his mind raced. Whether it was general thoughts, or complete overthinking over the situation.
He turned to the right, entering the field once more after the short restroom break.
Ness gave a warm smile to the other as he entered, and then he caringly asked, “Are you sure you can play today?”
“Yeah. Don’t worry, my throats just been super scratchy.” Karasu answered. He didn’t want to burden Ness with any of his worries, especially the hanahaki disease he had contracted because of the other boy in the first place.
“Let’s continue? Restart?” Ness asked as he held the ball in his hand right next to his head.
Karasu quickened his pace, and he nodded in agreement to Ness’s question.
“I’ll beat ya’ this time.”
Ness laughed, “You can try.” He grinned as he did so, “But I’ll win, Karasu.”
Karasu sat on the grass, panting, he was out of breath from the game the two just played against each other. Playing against Ness was euphoric, he was an amazing midfielder that caught Karasu’s eyes the moment he saw him.
Ness was sitting on the grass next to Karasu, a gentle laugh living his lips like honey. Such a pretty sound.
“That was fun.” Karasu commented breathlessly. Ness nodded in response before taking a drink of water.
After completing that action Ness stood up, and he stretched his arms. The sun had almost completely set above them, and it was time for Ness to return to the Germany stratum now.
Ness beamed brightly at Karasu holding his hand out to him, “You were better than I expected. We’ll have to play again, Karasu. Tomorrow?”
“Tomorrow.” Karasu agreed with a grin, he took Ness’s hand in his own as he helped him up.
Karasu ate dinner alongside Nanase and Zantetsu. Zantetsu was rambling on about how important it is to brush your teeth especially after a meal like this. He comes from a family of dentists. That was what Karasu could pick up from his speech.
Karasu couldn’t pay much attention when his mind was filled with Ness. He didn’t care about the pain he’d feel whenever he coughed up these flowers because Ness was causing it. Ness, Ness, Ness. Those were the only thoughts in his mind.
Practice with him, such a common activity, but his heart never fluttered when he practiced with anyone else.
Karasu couldn’t wait for tomorrow to come, he ate dinner quickly, then he headed to the baths. Ending his day off on a good note.
As Karasu entered the rooms fresh from the baths. He’d sit on his bed ignoring the fact that Rin was passed out on Shidou’s bed instead of his own.
Karasu left Shidou in the baths, and now he wished he had come to the room first so he could interrogate Shidou about it
He dried his hair with the towel that rested on his shoulder, he was tired, the hot water from the baths relaxed his limbs, and he was on the verge of sleep. He was to slip into unconsciousness for the next eight hours.
..
Day 5
Early that morning Karasu got permission to enter the Germany stratum. He’d hope that Ness was already awake by the time he got there because he couldn’t wait any longer to see him again.
Karasu walked down the unfamiliar hallways, although the stratums were similar, copy and pasted, Karasu was still confused as he strolled.
His head peaked into every room looking for that familiar head of pink hair.
It wasn’t until he heard the sound of a whistle, and he walked through the doorway of a practice field that he’d find Ness. Sitting on the grass close to the doors Karasu entered, watching the current practice game from afar.
Karasu grinned as he walked over to Ness. He took a seat in the grass next to him, crossing his legs, and resting his arms behind his back, palms on the grass
“Hey Ness.”
Ness turned his head, gazing at the boy who walked in, and took a seat next to him.
“Karasu?”
“Ya’ said we’d see each other today.” Karasu grinned as he met Ness’s pink eyes.
Ness nodded and his eyes diverted back to the practice game going on in front of them. Ness had his arms wrapped around his legs, chin resting on top of his knees.
“Kaiser’s playing…he has a really shitty haircut. Ya’ see that?” Karasu commented, he pointed to the blonde as he ran down the field.
Ness raised an eyebrow at the bold insult, and then he buried his head in his knees as he muffled his laughter.
“Ah he lost the ball too.” Karasu said, breaking his composure slightly as he let a few laughs slip as he spoke.
Ness pulled his head out of his knees, glancing over at Karasu with a tender smile, “Why’re you making fun of him?”
“Hm? I’m not, I'm just being honest , Ness.”
Karasu poked his cheek teasingly as he responded. Ness rolled his eyes, and turned his attention back to the game, but that smile never left his lips.
“Ya’ think I compare to Kaiser yet?” Karasu asked boldy.
Ness pondered for a moment, “Not yet.” He saw Karasu opening his mouth, and he pressed a finger to his lips, silencing him, “But I think you’ll come close soon.”
Karasu kept his mouth shut, and he smiled at the statement instead, happy with that answer.
“Practice later today and tomorrow again?”
“Already making plans for tomorrow?” Karasu teased with a smirk.
Ness clicked his tongue, “Yes or no?”
“Oh come on, ya’ know the answer,” Karasu chuckled, “yes.”
Karasu sat happily next to Ness waiting for this practice match to end so the two could repeat theirs from yesterday.
The PXG dorms were empty except for Shidou and Karasu who were lying on Shidou’s bed. They had pillows under their arms and chests, watching a football related video on Shidou’s phone.
Then Shidou shut his phone off, and he turned his head towards Karasu, a teasing grin on his face. He had his eyebrows raised, and his fangs on full display.
“Tell me what happened with Ness today.”
Karasu laughed, “What are we going to gossip like teenage girls?”
“Yeah, obviously.” Shidou said in response, joining in on the laughter.
“Pfft, fine.” Karasu agreed, “We practiced.”
“Oh come on, give me more than that.” Shidou groaned, flicking Karasu’s head at the stupid response he gave.
“We made fun of Kaiser too—well I did.”
“Taking my advice?”
“Sometimes.” Karasu nodded, “Ya’ know, I’m kind of worried he’s going to catch on…”
“Really? Why?”
“I can’t just stop the coughing fits around him, and they happen more often when Ness is in my presence.” Karasu explained with a frown, “I’ve collected the flowers in my palms everytime, but what if he notices…? How am I supposed to explain it?”
Shidou nodded, thinking for a moment, formulating his response before replying, “I don’t know…you’ll have to tell him eventually though. It’s not something you can keep a secret.”
“I know that.” Karasu grumbled, “It’s too soon for that.”
Shidou nodded and he messed with his hands awkwardly as a silence washed over them.
Their breathing was the only noise heard in the quiet room. Karasu closed his eyes as he took a deep breath before sighing.
“…I still think he’s into Kaiser.” Karasu broke the silence.
Shidou nodded, maintaining his silence, waiting for Karasu to finish his statement.
“I’m trying to make him fall for me, but there’s only two more days until we’re out of here.” Karasu sighed, at a loss for what else to do.
“Yeah…I know.” Shidou answered empathetically, “You seein’ him tomorrow?”
Karasu nodded, humming, “Mhm.”
Then an awkward silence fell over the two once more as both found themselves not knowing how to continue the conversation.
Karasu could ramble on about Ness for hours, but he doubts Shidou wants to listen to that. His mind wandered to other topics, then he remembered what he observed before bed yesterday.
“What’s goin’ on with Rin and ya’?” Karasu asked with a cheeky grin, and raised eyebrows, he was sure that there was more than a simple friendship if they even had that in the first place.
Shidou rolled his eyes, “He totally gave it away yesterday didn’t he?”
Karasu’s eyes widened, and his eyebrows raised even higher at the question. He was flabbergasted that his suspicions were right. It was obvious, but he was more shocked that they figured it all out.
“Are ya’ serious?” Karasu asked, mouth wide and agape, “Are ya’ seriously dating Rin?” He asked with a teasing tone of voice.
Shidou rested his head on the palms of his hands. He clicked his tongue, “Not dating… yet.”
“Yet.” Karasu emphasized on the possibility.
“But we might have… kissed-a-few-times.”
Karasu slammed his hands down on the pillow, making his astonishment ever so clear. His mouth was still agape, and he found himself laughing after a few moments.
He pointed a finger at Shidou as he continued his laughter, “I knew it!” He shouted between laughs, “I was right!”
“If I can pull Rin then you can pull Ness.”
“Tsk, yeah-yeah.” Karasu replied, “I will. Watch me.”
..
Day 6
Karasu sat alongside an unlikely person while eating breakfast that morning. He rubbed his eyes tiredly, the fits becoming more frequent throughout the night. Although he’s become accustomed to it, he can easily fall back asleep right after. However, he’d still wake up feeling not very rested.
Despite this Karasu had a dopey grin on his face. Head resting against the fist of his hand as he gazed at Ness. The other boy is eating peacefully next to Karasu.
Karasu occasionally took a bite of his food, but his attention was completely diverted towards Ness.
After this they’d practice, and maybe spend some more time together after that. Karasu could only hope for the second part.
Practice never happened— well it did, but right now they weren’t really practicing.
Ness and Karasu were sitting on the grass a distance between them, and a bubbly conversation had arisen. They were passing a football back and forth to each other whilst conversing.
Karasu was recounting something stupid Shidou and him did when they had just joined the PXG team. He felt comfortable with Ness, rambling on knowing that even if Ness wasn’t verbally responding he was listening.
When Karasu’s silly story came to an end Ness spoke up with a rather odd question, “Karasu…” he said his name to grab his attention, but it didn’t have to, Ness always had Karasu’s full attention.
“Hm?” Karasu hummed the question with a warm smile.
“Why have you taken an interest in me?” Ness put the football aside as he asked the question, and Karasu laid down on his back, the glass blades uncomfortably poking him through his shirt.
Karasu chuckled at the question, and asked in return, “What’s that supposed to mean?”
Karasu gently shut his eyes, resting one of his arms on his chest, and the other by his side. He waited patiently for Ness’s response.
“You’ve been so eager to play with me…more specifically spend time with me.” Ness clarified his question further, “Why, Karasu…?”
Karasu felt his heart race, he could lie, or half lie. It was true that he’d first began seeking Ness out because of his hanahaki disease, but another reason was his infatuation with the boy. Both were connected to one another, but mentioning the disease was a big deal.
“Honestly, I was interested in yer’ style of football. I wanted to see what kind of player ya’ would be if you weren’t hiding in Kaiser’s shadow.” Karasu answered honestly, without mentioning his disease, “But I found myself enjoying the time I spent with ya’, even now… ya’ can take that how you want.”
There was silence after Karasu spoke. Karasu’s eyes were still shut, and he couldn’t see Ness’s reaction to his indirect love confession.
Karasu muffled a cough as flowers pried their way out of his lungs. He was used to doing this— to have these coughing fits around Ness. He sat up and covered his mouth with his hand collecting the plant as he roughly coughed it out. Karasu could care less about the mess of blood on his palms, it was usual by now, but the amounts of flowers along with the sizes of the petals have all increased, and that was very different.
Ness watched the fit come to an end, if he saw the blood, if he saw the petals, he never commented on it.
Karasu continued to sit up, gazing at Ness from afar. Ness met his eyes, and asked the same question once more.
“But why…?” Ness asked, “ …Kaiser doesn’t find me all that interesting— even that great of a football player. He’s too focused on that striker, Yoichi.”
Karasu got up, almost crawling over to Ness as he walked on his knees. They were closer— a lot closer now.
Karasu’s knees brushed against Ness as he sat criss-cross in the grass. Their shoulders brushed as his arm made contact with Ness’s own.
“Kaiser’s an idiot.” Karasu commented, a simple insult that was true in his eyes. Karasu poked Ness’s nose as he made the comment, a genuine smile falling on his lips as he did so.
Karasu continued to maintain eye contact with Ness, even at this close distance Karasu wouldn’t look away.
Then he whispered, low, only for Ness to hear, “I haven’t been able to take my eyes off ya’ since we met.”
A light blush dusted Ness’s cheeks at the statement. Karasu’s eyes staring so lovingly into his own.
“You mean that?” Ness asked in a whisper. He turned his body towards Karasu, arms falling to his sides, holding the grass.
Karasu sighed happily, “I’d never lie to ya.’”
Ness moved their faces closer, noses brushing, and Karasu continued to keep eye contact. His eyes were entranced by the sight of Ness in front of him. Close— close enough to kiss.
Karasu moved one of his hands to Ness’s hair, fingertips brushing a loose strand behind his ear, “Yer’ enthralling Ness…I’m completely captivated by ya.’”
Ness’s eyelids began to slowly shut as he tilted his head to the side slightly. Their lips aligned perfectly, and a gentle push would connect them.
“Kiss me, Karasu.” Ness mumbled out of breath.
That was all he needed to close the distance. One of Ness’s arms wrapped around his neck, trapping him, and pulling him closer.
It was a messy kiss at first, Ness’s lips were so soft that Karasu melted with the simple touch. Karasu wished the kiss would last forever, but it ended just as quickly as it started.
Karasu rested his forehead against Ness’s own, and he kept his eyes shut. Leaning into the gentle touch, and relaxing against Ness.
“Let’s get dinner.” Ness offered, speaking for the first time after the kiss, “Karasu.”
“Mhm…”
The two walked down the halls of the France stratum, neither speaking a word of the incident that had taken place on the field.
They had practiced for a short time earlier, but they spent most of the time conversing, yet, Karasu was still tired.
They got their trays of food, and ate in the Blue Lock cafeteria. It wasn’t too packed, but there were some recognizable faces. Karasu and Ness sat at their own table in one of the corners in the room.
“Ya’ see those two over there?” Karasu asked, pointing his chopsticks at a frustrated black haired boy, and grinning blonde.
“Yeah..”
“Ya’ would never guess they’re dating.” Karasu commented, “Well I guess I did…”
“Is the blonde one the guy in all those stories you were telling me?”
“Mhm, Shidou. Ya’ pay good attention.”
“You’re just an interesting person, Karasu.” Ness beamed in response.
Ness had the prettiest smile Karasu has ever seen, and the plant in his lungs must think the same thing because as Ness smiled he got the urge to cough.
Karasu grabbed a napkin off of his plate, and covered his mouth. He turned his head to the side as he aggressively coughed into the napkin. This was one of his longest fits yet, and the petals never stopped leaving.
The napkin was painted red, and it contained enough petals to rebuild enough flowers for a tiny bouquet.
“Sorry:”
Karasu apologized before he got up, and threw away the napkin in one of the trash cans. He walked back over to the table sitting down next to Ness.
“Are you sick?”
“Nah, it just happens sometimes, don’t worry about me.”
Ness nodded but he still had a questioning look on his face. “It just happens sometimes.” Yet it happened so-so often. Scarily often.
The two continued to talk over dinner, but eventuallt they’d have to part once more.
“Tomorrow?”
“Tomorrow.”
Tomorrow they’d see each other for the last time in Blue Lock.
Karasu returned to the room late, spending extra time in the baths as his mind replayed all those interactions from today. Ness consumed his mind, and a plant grew in his lungs because of him. It was as if Ness was a part of him at this point.
Karasu leisurely strolled through the hallways back to the room late at night. There was no one else in the empty hallways. Most asleep by now since it was so late.
As Karasu entered the room he quietly walked over to Shidou.
Karasu sat on the floor next to Shidou’s bed, grabbing the others' attention in the dark room. The lights were off, and it was difficult to find your way at night.
There was something Karasu needed to confess—to get off his chest because if he didn’t he wouldn’t be able to sleep no matter how tired he was.”
“Psst.” Karasu called to Shidou as if he were a cat.
Shidou groaned and he rolled over, facing Karasu, “Huh? What?” He rasped, his voice groggy, and filled with sleep.
“I kissed Ness.”
Karasu whispered to Shidou as they gossiped in the PXG the other members of the team were asleep. It was rather awkward though with Rin asleep at Shidou’s side, but Karasu didn’t care enough right now because he needed to get it off his chest.
Shidou’s eyes widened and he loudly whispered, “What?”
“Shh!” Karasu hissed back, “And yes.”
“So are you cured now?”
“No. I didn’t confess.” Karasu shook his head, despite the action not being very visible in the dark room.
“Are you going to confess tomorrow? It’s the last day…then we leave.”
“Yeah. I plan to.” Karasu spoke uneasily, his stomach churned as the nervous feelings grew, and any other words he had to say got caught in his throat.
“Great. Tell me how it goes. I’m going to sleep now, goodnight.”
“Goodnight, Shidou.”
Day 7
Karasu grinned as he fixed his hair in the mirror. Running his fingers through it as he made it look perfect with the gel in his hands.
He ran the tap, and he washed his hands, cleaning the evidence of the sticky gel off.
That cocky smirk that fell on his lips never left. One would have to ask what could someone so ill be so happy about?
Karasu knew he was withering away, and that if he didn’t take action soon he’d pass away. His lungs were filled with an almost fully grown plant. He struggled to breathe sometimes, and practice wasn’t even an option anymore.
The U-20 world cup was tomorrow, and Karasu knew if this kept up he had no chance. The new rankings would be announced tomorrow, and Karasu was sure he was going to be far below the top five.
All because he foolishly fell in love with the German midfielder.
Today was the last day he’d see Ness, and it was also the day he’d finally confess his love. They’ve kissed before, but Karasu has never spoken the weight filled words, I love you. To the other. A statement that he would never say as a lie.
He’d always had the courage to look Ness in the eye and tell him he loved him. Even if it was the last sentence he could say. He’d tell Ness everything.
Karasu wouldn’t hesitate to take his problems as his own, to be devoted to him, and faithful even in life and death.
To look Ness in the eyes, and say that he would wait for Ness in every universe. To look for him in the sky at night if he became one with the stars. To never forget him even if this disease took him.
But to also look Ness in the eyes and say, “I understand.”
Before he’d stand up and never see him again.
Karasu walked down the hallways, the tense air of the Blue Lock facility eating away at him. Tension was high as Blue Lock was coming to a close. Yet Karasu couldn’t be happier. He’d let this disease eat at him for the last week, and all he wanted to do was be free from it.
It was simple to tell Ego, to tell him to book the surgery, and then he’d be back to normal. But nothing was ever that simple. Why would he ask the doctors to cut the flowers of his lungs, to take the symbolization of his love for Ness out of his body?
Karasu stood in the doorway for a moment as he contemplated walking in and confessing everything to Ness. He felt anxious, nervous, every stressful emotion coursed through his body at the same time.
Yet he wouldn’t worry because he’d promised himself that once the last day came around he’d confess his feelings to Ness along with his disease.
The lights surrounding the field were dim. Karasu hesitated as he stepped forward, grass crunching under his feet, and a frown fell upon his lips.
Ness turned his head at the sound, the presence of the other boy on the field.
The room was dull and the atmosphere made Karasu want to puke. Throw up more than the flowers capturing his breath as they’d grab his lungs, filling them with petals, stems, and leaves.
Ness sat on the empty field. The sun wasn’t shining on this particular day. The grey storm clouds above them adding no natural light to the field.
Karasu stepped closer, and he took a seat next to Ness. Grass blades dug into the palm of his hands, but Karasu was too focused on Ness to care. The discomfort of the field he sat on didn't bother him.
The silence between them grew, it was so quiet there was a loud ring in Karasu’s ear. Then it was no longer quiet as Ness spoke, “Hey Karasu.” A simple greeting from his pleasant voice. One that warmed Karasu’s heart every time those lips moved.
“Hey,” Karasu greeted, there was a brief pause before he finished the sentence, “Ness.”
Karasu knew he was shaking, that the constant movement was visible, and that Ness noticed. Ness would never make a comment about it though. His heart was beating, adding to the constant ringing in his ears. No matter how hard he tried there would never be complete silence.
He’s worked up all this courage yet he wanted to keep his mouth shut. Never utter the confession that’s been on the tip of his tongue these last seven days.
“Ya’ know…” Karasu began, the quiver in his voice spoke for itself, and once he started speaking there was no stopping, “I’ve been keeping something from ya.’”
Ness nodded and he met Karasu’s gaze for a moment before Karasu looked away.
“I have hanahaki disease, Ness.”
Karasu confessed the weighted statement as he stared at the green grass below him. Hands gripping the grass and pulling blades out because of the force.
Ness’s stare could be felt, but Karasu couldn’t move his head, his eyes glued to the ground below him. His breathing faltered, and he took a long, deep breath as he attempted to regain composure.
“Mhm...”
Ness hummed solemnly in response, and then Karasu felt a weight on his shoulder. Ness rested his head against him, eyes shut as he did so. The warmth of his body heat brought Karasu comfort. Yet his heart was still racing, and he prayed Ness wouldn’t notice.
Karasu laughed a gentle laugh so subtle that if there was any other noise in the room it would go unnoticed. His arm wrapped around Ness pulling him closer, and a stray tear rolled down his cheek. Yet the laughing never stopped, it was almost maniacal . Sometimes it wouldn’t be audible just hiccuped movements as he attempted to make something out of this situation.
Then Karasu smiled. A wide smile, a beaming smile, a fake smile.
“I love you Ness.”
Karasu said sentimentally. He let all of his built up feelings pour into that one statement. The adoration he felt towards Ness, the need, the want, the fondness, all that he felt for Ness was summed up in three words. Those three words that carried so much meaning.
Ness didn’t repeat the sentence.
Instead he pulled off Karasu, facing him, close, their lips only a mere distance apart. Karasu could see every detail on Ness’s face, his beauty more noticable, and amplified at this distance.
A smile ghosted Karasu’s lips…Ness felt the same way…?
Then their love should be sealed by this kiss.
Ness moved closer and he closed the distance between them. Leaving a chaste kiss on Karasu’s lips. He interlaced their fingers, and Karasu let one of his hands fall upon Ness’s cheek.
The kiss was slow but it was driven by emotion. Karasu wanted to savor the moment, and never let it end because the feeling of Ness’s lips against his own brought him a comfortable feeling of warmth.
Then they pulled away, and Ness was still so close.
It was as if everything and nothing changed at the same time. Karasu had kissed Ness, his heart blooming, his love for Ness had never been so strong. But, on the other hand, the plant in his lungs was still prevalent.
Karasu’s hanahaki disease was still here.
“I’m sorry.” Ness mumbled, he turned his head away from Karasu’s general direction, and the palm of his hand covered his mouth, “I’m sorry.” He repeated the apology over and over again.
Deep down Karasu knew this was going to be the outcome. That after those two works no matter how hard he tried his efforts wouldn’t work, and as pathetic as it sounded, a part of him wished he never fell in love.
But he wasn’t upset.
“I know.”
Karasu nodded as he replied in a low whisper. His thumb rubbed circles on Ness’s hand comfortingly, “I know.” Karasu repeated the statement in a whisper.
Karasu glanced up at Ness, and he met his eyes. Deep blue eyes gazed into those beautiful pink ones. Those pink eyes that would appear everytime he closed his eyes. All so recognizable in the dreams he had at night.
“I understand.”
“I’m sorry I can’t love you….” Ness repeated the apology, he paused briefly before speaking, “…I’m sorry I can’t accept your love.”
Karasu nodded, his eyes shutting as he did so, he rested his forehead against Ness’s own, and he sighed softly as he did so.
“I tried so hard…you treated me so well, but when I closed my eyes you were never there. When I imagined a future Kaiser was there.”
All along he’d always loved someone else before and after Karasu walked through those doors and into his life.
“I know.” Karasu kept his eyes shut as he listened to the words Ness spoke.
Karasu always knew Ness never felt this way.
“Kaiser has your heart, and he’s had it from the start…” Karasu mumbled, “…I understand.”
“Karasu.”
“Hm…?”
Ness took a deep breath, “Get the surgery. For me, please.”
Karasu nodded his forehead rubbing against Ness’s own. Even after all this he couldn’t tell Ness no, and he knew he’d need to get the surgery now before it was too late.
Even if it meant he’d lose his love for Ness which was similar to losing his life he would do it. He would do it as a last request from Ness.
Then Karasu smiled, a tender smile, and he looked at Ness fondly as he pulled back.
Then he looked Ness in the eyes and mumbled, “I understand.”
Before he’d stand up and never see him again.
..