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"I do not have much time left to live Hakuji."
A startled expression rests on Koyuki's face upon hearing those words. Icy blue eyes are filled with sorrow, horror, and confusion as his lips quiver in a queer manner. His hands shake as he reaches for his lover's face, as a bright pink light from the sky eliminates them. Koyuki holds his hands close to her face, her lashes fluttering rapidly as deep blue light replaces the bright pink from earlier.
"Ah, it seems the festival has begun."
Deep within a warm night in Japan, the fox festival has begun to take place. Fireworks begin to light up the sky as merchants set up their stalls and shops. The air filled with thundering sounds: fireworks exploding; children screaming; merchants shouting; crowds singing; bells ringing and drunkards laughing.
Kitsune masks are sold at every shop in sight, carved from the finest quality wood, painted in vibrant colours (mainly white, red and pink), and decorated with flowers, ribbons, and bells. Each carry a different personality, waiting to be purchased by its complimentary owner, like a fox waiting and listening for its pray.
Koyuki's kitsune mask proudly carries a flower pin with three white flowers, each competing for space and attention. It's face is painted with white and red spots, adorned with more flowers close to it's ears. Hakuji's mask carries a rather stoic expression. It's face painted in a muted white colour, with desaturated blue stripes running down it's face, resembling a trail left by rain drops. It bears no accessories or any other decorations.
Tears start to stream down Hakuji's eyes as he stares blankly into Koyuki's eyes. Her eyes reflect the vibrant colours of the fireworks above them, her flower-shaped pupils casting a mesmerising spell on him. Her red, floral kimono, that resembles a spider lily, starts to sway in the wind, starting of slowly like a dancer warming up to the music. Her coal neatly tied into a bun sways with her kimono, stray strands of hair whipping quicker than her kimono, mimicking Hakuji's heartbeat.
"For how long?" Hakuji whispered desperately
"Around two months, according to the doctor." Koyuki whispered back softly.
Hakuji tore his gaze away from his lover, unable to face her in such a weak state. Koyuki held his face and made him face her again.
"Look at me my love, it is plenty of time to build a true life with you. Enough time to create experiences with me to tell your students. Enough time to spend with me, for me to truly experience life," Koyuki gently said to Hakuji.
On top of a lonely shrine there stood a couple whose love was true. In the midst of a joyful celebration, they stood there in somber embrace, enjoying the moment.
"We are in midst of a joyous celebration my love. Let us celebrate for joy and for life," said Koyuki to Hakuji, who took her by hand and kissed her.