#Kuro cannot live without mahiru | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

pocket-luv101 · 3 years ago

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Summary: Kuro and Mahiru are ghosts without memories of their past or their connection to the house they now haunt. They decide to investigate their human life. Their only hint is a portrait of Mahiru and roses. (KuroMahi, Ghosts AU)

“I was planning to de-thorn these roses but it’s hard with your head on my lap. What if one of the thorns falls into your eye? Wouldn’t you be more comfortable sleeping inside the cabin rather than in the garden outside too? It’s already difficult enough to make a flower crown of roses.” Kuro opened his eyes but he couldn’t see the person above him. The person held a handful of roses and it blocked the person’s face. He reached up so he could hold his hand.

“Kuro, I think I found a clue of who we are!” Mahiru’s voice travelled down the stairs and it woke Kuro from his nap. The sound of rushed footsteps followed. He walked to the foot of the staircase to speak with him and he saw the way he descended the steps. He almost appeared to be flying as he leapt down two steps at a time. Kuro worried that Mahiru would trip and fall down the stairs. He reached out his arms to catch him in case he tripped.

In the back of his mind, he knew that it was a pointless fear when they were both ghosts and cannot be hurt.

Mahiru thought that his open arms were an invitation and he happily jumped over the last few steps to his embrace. Kuro caught him against his chest and his momentum threw him off balance a little. They spun in a circle before he regained his balance. Throughout, he kept Mahiru safe in his arms so he wouldn’t fall. Mahiru grinned up at him and said, “There’s a portrait in the attic. Come and look at it.”

They were ghosts and neither of them could remember their past. The only thing they knew was their name and that they had a connection to the cabin. Though, they only guessed the latter was true because their souls lingered in the house. While Kuro was content with being a ghost and living without his memories, he knew that it was important to Mahiru. He helped him as much as he could.

He took Kuro’s hand and he pulled him up the steps. They entered the attic and Mahiru led him to the far corner of the room. Kuro was surprised that he found a portrait when they already searched the cabin thoroughly for anything that could tell them about their lives as humans. However, the home was completely barren. If they once lived in the cabin, their photos and furniture had been removed.

The attic was empty and he couldn’t see the portrait Mahiru mentioned. Mahiru motioned for him to stand next to him. He pressed on the wall and a board fell open to reveal a storage closet. Since the cabin was old and the wood was worn, it was difficult to see the door among the wood panel. They glanced into the closest and it was filled with art supplies.

Kuro’s eyes were immediately drawn to the portrait resting on the easel. An emotion swelled within him but he couldn’t describe his own reaction to the portrait. The painting portrayed Mahiru in a garden of roses. He sat on a chair with a black cat on his lap and a stunning smile on his face. The portrait was stunning but he couldn’t help but feel that it was unfinished. He asked, “What do you think this means?”

“I found the door by accident when I heard birds in the wall. The moment I saw the painting, I ran downstairs to tell you. This is the first time I’m looking at it closely.” Mahiru stared at the portrait of himself and he struggled to remember when it was created. He was clearly posing for the picture and he wondered if there was a reason that he had a traditional painting made of himself. A photograph would’ve been simpler and easier.

“The paint hasn’t aged much so this must’ve been made recently. There isn’t a date or signature in the corner like most artists would have. That would’ve helped tell us when you might’ve died. Then again, that might be pointless when we don’t have a calendar to tell us when today is. Can’t deal.” Kuro said. In the corner of his eyes, he saw Mahiru’s face fall. He quickly added: “But this tells us a lot. This house must belong to you because this shows you in the rose garden outside.”

“This house is…” Mahiru mumbled. To call the house his own felt true but there was a lingering doubt in his heart. There must’ve been more that connected both of them to the cabin beyond it being his home. Thinking simply, Kuro wouldn’t be haunting the cabin if it only belonged to only Mahiru. “This cabin could also belong to whoever painted this. You would assume that the artist would keep their unfinished paintings in their own home or studio rather than the client’s place. This is a beautiful portrait.”

“You are.” Kuro whispered. The words left his lips without thinking and he hoped that Mahiru hadn’t overheard him. Since Kuro met Mahiru, he felt drawn to him. He fell in love with him the more time they spent together. He hesitated to confess to him because neither of them remembered their past. A relationship would become complicated if Mahiru was in love with someone else. Due to that, he decided to wait until it was the right time.

“The birds made a nest in this closet so it’s lucky that they didn’t damage the painting. We should move this to the living room where it’ll be safe. It’ll be a shame for something so nice to be left in the attic and collecting dust. Does that sound conceited? I know that my appearance is plain compared to a supermodel’s.” Mahiru jokingly said. His voice became a stutter when he felt Kuro’s fingers brush over his bangs. There was a warmth in his red eyes that made him feel lighter.

“I’ll carry the painting down for you.” Kuro said. It was clear that Mahiru hadn’t heard his earlier words and he didn’t know whether he should be disappointed or not. He wished that he could tell him how beautiful he was to him. His large, inviting eyes reflected how kind and compassionate he was. He couldn’t understand why anyone would find him unattractive.

He slowly dropped his hand and Mahiru almost reached out to take his hand again. Mahiru bit his lip and he watched Kuro walk around him to pick up the portrait. He carried it out of the small closet and Mahiru fell in step next to him. The stairs were narrow and they needed to walk close together. Their arms brushed together occasionally. Even though they were ghosts, Mahiru was certain that he could feel the warmth of his body. Perhaps, the warmth was a lingering memory.

They stepped into the living room and Kuro asked, “Where should we put your picture? The room is pretty empty and we don’t have any nails to hang it on the wall.”

“We can put it on the fireplace’s mantel.” Mahiru suggested. The living room was empty and having something to decorate the wall was refreshing. He didn’t know their connection to the cabin but he was surprised another family hadn’t moved into the cabin. The house was simple but it had a comforting nature like a fairy tale.

He carefully leaned the portrait against the wall and he didn’t let it go until he was certain it wouldn’t fall. He took a step back to study the painting and Mahiru stood next to him. They stood close together and Mahiru rested his head against his shoulder. In return, Kuro wrapped his arm around his waist. He fit perfectly in his arms and he was able to tuck his head beneath his chin.

Kuro closed his eyes and he was able to imagine the room fully furnished and blurry picture frames on the mantel. A distant voice echoed against the wall. “We should move the couch over there and turn this space into a dining area. We can enjoy the television and fireplace while we eat. This way, we can get a bigger table for when we have guests over too. What do you think, Kuro?”

“Kuro?” Mahiru’s voice pulled him out of his daze. “Are you okay? You look distracted.”

“I’m fine.” Kuro playfully twirled a few strands of his brown hair around his finger. “I was thinking that you’re probably from five hundred years in the past since it’s rare to have a traditional painting made of you. It’s a shame since we wouldn’t have known each other as humans.”

“I’m not an ancient ghost, Kuro. That makes me sound old.” Mahiru pouted. “Anyways, I can still remember things from the city so I’m not from 500 years in the past. We’re close to finding our past now that we’ve found this painting.”

“I know you’re a painter but you cannot come to bed covered in paint, Sweetie.” Mahiru sighed. He cradled a person’s hand in his palm and then he wiped away the paint with a damp towel. They sat on a bed and he discarded the towel into a laundry basket nearby. He gasped when arms wrapped around his waist and pulled him back onto the mattress. Before he could see the person clearly, he buried his face into his neck. He lovingly stroked his light hair. “You’ve been working late. Maybe you can take a break tomorrow.”

“My current project is something I’m making as a gift so there isn’t a deadline. I can take a break tomorrow but I want to finish it as soon as I can.” The person mumbled against Mahiru’s neck and his warm breath made him shiver. He circled his arm around him and he hoped it was enough to comfort him. He wished he could make him feel less tired. “I know the perfect way to spend my break tomorrow.”

“If you suggest we stay in bed all day, the answer is no. I love you but that would be irresponsible. I have to tend to my rose garden and then drive to the city to deliver them to the flower shops. You’re welcome to join me. It’s always nice to have someone to talk to during such a long drive.”

“I’ll probably have to wait in the car while you’re doing your deliveries. It’ll be troublesome if someone recognizes and they cause a scene. I never expected being a famous painter would get me the same attention as a celebrity.” His sigh was heavy with frustration. “At least, we get to have a little privacy after moving here.

Mahiru leaned down and he kissed the top of his head. “It’s great that people recognize your talent. However, you’ll always be the man I love before a famous artist.”

They heard a loud thud downstairs and Mahiru sat up. They lived alone in the forest so it was rare for them to hear such a loud noise. He stepped off the bed and he started to go towards the door. A hand around his wrist stopped him and pulled him back. “I’ll check it out. It’s probably just a raccoon falling through the chimney. Stay here and call the police if I don’t come back right away.”

“I can’t let you go alone when you clearly suspect that someone broke in like I do.” Mahiru argued. Once again, he tried to stand but he stopped him with a kiss. He kissed him for only a brief moment before he broke away to leave. Mahiru felt a little breathless after the kiss but he forced his legs to move. He called the police as he chased after him.

Mahiru rushed to tell the phone operator their situation. He was careful to keep his voice low so the intruder wouldn’t be able to hear them and know that they were awake. He reached the bottom of the staircase and his heart dropped. A man wearing black stood in the living room and he had a gun pointed at his lover. The moment he noticed Mahiru enter the room, he aimed at him.

“Tell me where the paintings are.” He ordered.

“We’ll tell you so no one needs to be hurt.” He said and he subtly moved in front of Mahiru to protect him. He desperately tried to keep his voice calm even though his heart was racing with fear. The man obviously wanted to take his paintings and sell them. Guilt fell onto his shoulders that his work had endangered his lover. He couldn’t concentrate on those feelings when he needed to focus on protecting Mahiru. “My paintings are in the attic.”

“Kuro!” Mahiru screamed and he woke up with a start. He looked at Kuro sleeping next to him as he was when he first came into consciousness as a ghost. He touched his racing heart and he felt the fabric of Kuro’s jacket over his chest. Since the cabin no longer had furniture, they slept on the floor together and Kuro would place his large jacket over both of them.

“Is it morning already?” Kuro’s mind was still a little hazy from sleep. He was taken aback when Mahiru threw himself on top of him and clung to him. He was confused but he hugged Mahiru and stroked his hair lovingly. Suddenly, his vision blurred and he thought he saw blood coating his hand. A memory of the last time he held Mahiru bleeding in his arms returned. “Dear Lord, are you okay, Mahiru? You’re bleeding!”

“I’m not hurt. That was just a memory.” Mahiru reassured him. He didn’t want to let him go after he remembered how they died that night. He lifted his face from his chest only enough for him to look into his red eyes. “I remember everything, Kuro! I was a florist and you were an artist. We moved into this cabin to start a life together. I love you.”

The words made Kuro’s heart swell after longing to hear them for years. Yet, something held him back. Kuro took his hand and he kissed Mahiru’s fingertips. “The reason that man targeted you was because of me and my art. I’m so sorry. I should’ve protected you.”

“You did protect me and what happened wasn’t your fault.” Mahiru said and he laced their fingers together. “I’m glad that we’re together in the end.”

#servamp #kuromahi #sloth pair #servamp kuro #mahiru shirota #fanfiction

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reverberatingechoesblog · 6 years ago

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If Forever’s Not Within Our Grasp

The truth, Kuro thinks, is this: One day, his identity as Kuro and his time with Mahiru will become a mere bittersweet memory tucked into the edges of his heart.

The truth, Kuro thinks, is this: One day, when Mahiru is no longer by his side, Kuro will become Sleepy Ash once more, except this time, he will become the Sleepy Ash who experienced love and happiness but lost them to time in the end.

The truth, Kuro thinks, is this: Mahiru Shirota has easily become everything to him and Kuro isn't confident he can pick up the pieces after Mahiru is long gone.

Or,

Kuro thinks of a future without Mahiru by his side and finds it painfully lonely. Mahiru does his best to comfort him in his own way.

Ao3

Made with love for @orangescribbles. :3

-- Kuro holds moments like these close to his heart. Mahiru is nestled beside him, head resting on Kuro’s shoulder and napping quietly. It’s not often that Mahiru allows himself to sleep the afternoon away, so Kuro decides to let his Eve use him as a makeshift pillow.

Studying the other’s features, Kuro can’t help but notice how exhausted Mahiru looks. In between attending classes, training with the other Eves and doing housework, Kuro briefly wonders where Mahiru finds time to rest, if he properly rests at all. (A part of Kuro wishes he could tell the other to pause and breathe for a bit, to not work himself too hard, but with how determined Mahiru is and with how serious the war is turning out to be, Kuro thinks that it’s safe to assume that his efforts will be in vain.

It doesn't mean Kuro won't worry, though.) “Learn to take a break, will you?” Kuro whispers to his sleeping companion, “you’re going to end up sending me to an early grave with how reckless you are sometimes. Doesn’t matter if I can’t die, you’ll probably end up killing me with how much you worry me, Mahiru.” Mahiru, predictably, only responds by snuggling closer. Kuro sighs and lies down on the sofa, adjusting Mahiru’s position so that the other is laying on top of his chest, legs tangled in his. Kuro drapes an arm over Mahiru’s back to make sure he doesn’t fall off. It’s a testament to Mahiru’s exhaustion that he doesn’t even stir at all.

Kuro gently runs his fingers through the other’s hair, smiling slightly when Mahiru makes a contented noise in his sleep.

Kuro holds moments like these close to his heart.

(It’s quiet moments like these that make Kuro believe that he’s truly, honestly happy.) His Eve is a reassuring weight on top of him, warm and solid and real and Kuro can’t help but think of the fact that happiness used to be such a farfetched dream to Sleepy Ash, to the Servamp of Sloth, but to Kuro-

But to Kuro, his happiness exists in the form of Mahiru Shirota. And to this day Kuro still wonders just how it is that Mahiru was the one who ended up picking him up that day, that Mahiru was the one who gave him a new name and a home-

That Mahiru ended up becoming the one person Kuro completely and willingly surrendered his heart to.

Kuro wonders about this and finds it equal parts fortunate and unfortunate. Fortunate because it is Mahiru Shirota and Kuro will never regret meeting him, never regret giving Mahiru his heart in full, never regret having this time with him.

Unfortunate because when all is said and done, Kuro will one day be left alone again. Unfortunate because Kuro is immortal and while being by Mahiru's side brings him the most happiness, it cannot change the fact that Kuro will outlive Mahiru by days, years, decades, centuries.

(Unfortunate because what waits for Kuro at the end is solitude and loneliness, heavier and infinitely more painful now that Kuro has been given the chance to experience genuine companionship with Mahiru. Unfortunate because Kuro has no doubt his heart and soul will continue to long for the other even after he's gone, has no doubt he'll see traces of his Eve no matter where he goes, has no doubt he'll chase after the phantom warmth Mahiru once radiated.)

The truth, Kuro thinks, is this: One day, his identity as Kuro and his time with Mahiru will become a mere bittersweet memory tucked into the edges of his heart.

The truth, Kuro thinks, is this: Mahiru Shirota has easily become everything to him and Kuro isn't confident he can pick up the pieces after Mahiru is gone.

Kuro's heart suddenly feels too heavy as he gazes at Mahiru's sleeping form.

(How am I supposed to live in a world without you? How am I supposed to live in a world where you don’t exist anymore?)

"Kuro?"

Kuro startles at the sound of Mahiru's sleepy voice and the sight of him slowly waking up. His Eve looks at him with mild confusion before his eyes widen in alarm.

"Kuro," Mahiru starts softly, any trace of sleepiness gone, "You're crying."

And-

Kuro hadn't noticed, not at all, but now that Mahiru's mentioned it, he's become all too aware of the warm tears running down his cheeks.

Mahiru sits up fully and moves to gently pull Kuro up with him and Kuro wants to feel bad because he hadn't meant to wake his Eve up, but he can't bring himself to stop crying either.

(Kuro's never really been one to cry so he surprises himself when his tears just continue falling.)

"Kuro," His Eve murmurs, reaching out to wipe his tears away. "Kuro, what's wrong?"

(How am I supposed to live in a world without you? How am I supposed to live in a world where you don’t exist anymore?)

Kuro tries to silence his intrusive thoughts as he closes his eyes and leans into the other's warm touch.

"Kuro," Mahiru repeats after a while, tone gentle, always gentle, "Can you tell me what's bothering you?"

(And isn’t that a frightening thought to consider? The aftermath of what he and Mahiru have. What comes after Mahiru leaves and Kuro is left all alone.

What happens then?)

“It’s troublesome,” Kuro finally whispers.

He hears Mahiru exhale softly. “What is?” The other asks patiently.

That your time is limited. That mine has no end. That with everything the way it is, I can’t see a definite future for both of us, no matter how much I wish for it.

The truth, Kuro thinks again, is this: One day, his identity as Kuro and his time with Mahiru will become a mere bittersweet memory tucked into the edges of his heart.

The truth, Kuro thinks again, is this: One day, when Mahiru is no longer by his side, Kuro will become Sleepy Ash once more, except this time, he will become the Sleepy Ash who experienced love and happiness but lost them to time, in the end.

The truth, Kuro thinks again, is this: Mahiru Shirota has easily become everything to him and Kuro isn't confident he can pick up the pieces after Mahiru is gone.

“Mahiru,” Kuro begins quietly, “What should I do, when you’re gone?” Because Kuro has no answers and the heaviness in his heart only continues to grow with every passing moment. Because Kuro has no answers and the prospect of a life without Mahiru upsets him so much.

Because Kuro has no answers and he’s not certain he can find them by himself.

Mahiru doesn’t reply immediately. Kuro thinks he’s weighing the question in his mind, trying to understand what prompted Kuro to ask in the first place, trying to understand what Kuro means by the question.

His Eve doesn’t reply immediately, only pulls Kuro into his arms. In response, Kuro embraces him back tighter, as if doing so would extend the time they have together.

“Kuro,” Mahiru says and Kuro wants to always hear this name, his name, from Mahiru’s lips.

But that’s not possible with the way things are.

“Mahiru,” Kuro murmurs and his voice sounds broken, even to himself, “What should I do, when you’re gone?”

Mahiru runs his fingers through Kuro’s hair. “Why do you think I’ll leave you alone?” He asks carefully.

Kuro exhales shakily. “I’m immortal, Mahiru,” He answers quietly, “Because of that, I can’t die the way other people ordinarily would. Because I can’t die, I’ll still be here after you’re long gone. And if you’re gone, I-”

I don’t know how I’ll be able to handle living in a world that you’re no longer in.

He feels Mahiru shuffle and finds the other cupping his cheek and looking at him with sad but tender eyes.

“Mahiru, I’m scared.” Kuro whispers and he finds himself divulging all of the truths he’s kept close to his heart. “I’m scared because being by your side is what makes me the happiest. I’m scared because I don’t know what to do once you’re no longer by my side.”

Kuro keeps his eyes trained on Mahiru. “I’m scared,” Kuro says softly, “Because I love you and when I think of a world where you’re no longer by my side, it hurts so much.”

Mahiru’s eyes widen slightly upon hearing his words. He remains quiet.

Kuro slides his gaze away from Mahiru, wondering what the silence between them meant. That is, until he feels both of Mahiru’s hands on his cheeks. When Kuro looks at Mahiru again, he’s surprised to find his Eve close to crying.

“Mahiru?” Kuro asks softly. Mahiru lets go of his cheeks to wipe his own tears away.

“Kuro,” His Eve murmurs,“I’m sad that you’re hurting this much and I can’t do anything to take it away from you.”

Mahiru exhales softly. “I’m sad that you’re hurting this much and I can’t even promise you that everything will turn out alright in the end,” He continues, closing his eyes.

Kuro moves to draw Mahiru into his arms but before he can, his Eve opens his eyes and he sees determination and deep affection reflected in them.

“But that doesn’t mean I won’t try,” Mahiru declares with finality and he holds Kuro’s gaze. “I’m not giving up on a future with you, Kuro, not when I love you, too.”

Kuro’s breath catches in his throat at the other’s admission.

“Kuro, you make me so happy,” His Eve says, smiling tenderly at him, “I can’t bring myself to imagine what life without you would be like.”

And-

And hearing those words makes Kuro want to cry again. Mahiru draws him into his arms and Kuro presses his face against the other’s collarbones, his tears soaking his Eve’s shirt.

“I want you to be happy, Kuro,” Mahiru whispers and Kuro wants to say I am, I will be, as long as you’re here by my side, as long as you keep me by your side, I will never not be happy, I love you, I love you so much, but he can’t bring himself to say those words yet, let alone speak when he’s overcome by the intensity of his emotions.

Kuro breathes in and lifts his head. He sees Mahiru gaze at him with unbridled affection and warmth and Kuro’s heart feels full.

Kuro brings his face closer and gently kisses his Eve. Mahiru hums and returns the gesture tenderly.

When Kuro pulls away, Mahiru presses another kiss to his cheek and it catches him so off guard that Kuro feels heat rise to his cheeks. His Eve lets out a chuckle before grinning at him.

“Kuro,” Mahiru starts, voice soft, eyes softer, “I meant what I said about wanting a future together with you.”

“I want that, too,” Kuro replies just as softly, “I want it more than anything.”

Mahiru nods, smiling. “Then, simply thinking, we’ll just have to stay together,” He states easily and adds, “We’ll find a way to undo your immortality, Kuro. I’m not going to leave you alone.”

And-

And Kuro, for the first time in a very long while, allows himself to hope.

“You really think we’ll be able to undo it?” Kuro asks quietly, but his heart is already full and hopeful and decided.

Kuro thinks maybe, maybe, a future with Mahiru is possible.

Kuro thinks, maybe, a future with Mahiru is something that can be set in stone.

Kuro thinks, if Mahiru is by his side, then, maybe things will work out, one way or the other, in the end.

Mahiru’s answering grin is bright and determined and so filled with love that it makes Kuro smile, too.

#KuroMahi #Servamp #Kuro #Sleepy Ash #Mahiru Shirota #Servamp Fanfiction #Servamp Fic #fanfic

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pocket-luv101 · 4 years ago

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Summary: Mahiru is a demon and he saves an angel who was being chased. It is illegal for them to interact but Mahiru takes Kuro home to treat his wounds. (KuroMahi, Angel AU)

(Part 1) // Part 2

Mahiru walked beside the gate that laid between the land of demons and angels. He was a demon and he had always wondered about the land of angels beyond the gate. Due to the conflict between the two kingdoms, it was illegal to cross the border into the other’s land. He pulled his hood over his head so no one would recognize him. He would often visit the gate to pick the herbs that grew on the angel’s land.

A cluster of medicinal flowers sat a few feet from the gate and Mahiru was able to reach through the bars to pick the herbs on the other side. He knew that it was dangerous to trespass onto the angel’s land but he reasoned that it was only his hand. Mahiru was a healer and the herbs were essential in potions and medicines. He hurriedly filled the basket he brought with him.

The distinct sound of horses charging towards him caught his attention and it made him pull his hand back instinctively. At first, he thought that a gatekeeper had spotted him and they would arrest him. Mahiru picked up his basket and turned around to run. He only took a few steps before he realized that the noise came from the other side of the gate.

He looked back and spotted an angel being chased by demons on horses. Mahiru was confused to see demons on the other side of the gate. The angel stopped in front of the gate and his eyes met with Mahiru. The desperation in his red eyes called out to Mahiru even though they didn’t exchange a word. He didn’t know why the demons were chasing the angel but he couldn’t simply ignore a person who needed help.

“Can’t deal.” The angel’s words were followed by a muttered curse. His white wings were injured so he couldn’t fly away to escape. Kuro was cornered against the gate but he searched for an opening. He doubted the brunette demon would save him from the men chasing him. He turned around to face the men and drew his sword from its sheath.

“Pour toucher le soleil! Walls cannot stand between us. Let my hands reach you.” Mahiru used the spell to turn himself into sunlight and passed through the gate. He grabbed the angel’s shoulder and a bright light wrapped around them. His spell blinded the other demons and the distraction allowed Mahiru to save him. He pulled the angel to the other side of the gate where he took him into the dense forest.

“I don’t think the demons followed us. This is my home so we should be safe here. Sit down and let me look at your wings.” Mahiru told the angel once they were alone in his farm house. He was glad that he lived alone so he wouldn’t have to explain the man’s presence to anyone. He closed all the curtains and looked back to the man he rescued.

From the angel’s expression, Mahiru could see that he was uncertain and apprehensive. He understood how he felt since it was dangerous for him to be on the demon’s land. When Mahiru crossed the gate to save him, his only thought was to help him and he didn’t consider the risk. “I’m not going to hurt you. My name’s Mahiru and I’m a healer. Will you let me heal your wings?”

Kuro watched him carefully as he asked the question. The scent of herbs surrounded Mahiru and the house so he knew that he was being truthful that he was a healer. He didn’t know if he could fully trust him but he slowly unfurled his wings from behind him. When Mahiru took a step towards, he backed away and asked, “Why would you help me?”

Mahiru’s answer was: “Thinking simply, I didn’t want to see you be killed.”

“You’re a demon like the men who were chasing me so you should be on their side. They could be after me for revenge. Before the gate was built, I fought in countless battles against demons.” Kuro said and watched Mahiru for his reaction. His brown eyes widened slightly and a moment of sadness passed over his face. His expression stabbed Kuro’s heart and made him feel guilty.

“I’ve lost people in those battles and I miss them every day. You must have people who would miss you as well. That’s the only reason I need to save someone, whether they’re a demon or an angel.” Mahiru told him in a soft voice. He didn’t break his gaze from Kuro’s and his brown eyes were honest. “I don’t hate angels. The only ones I resent are the royal angels who took my family from me. Will you sit down and let me help you now?”

“You’re a strange man.” He said but he lowered himself into a chair. Mahiru sat in front of him and Kuro spread out his wings so he could examine the injury. His touch was gentle and light as he moved aside the bloody feathers. “My name is Kuro. I was flying and the assassins ambushed me. Hugh will lecture me for leaving the castle without a guard. Can’t deal.”

“Assassins? Castle?” He repeated. Mahiru’s brows furrowed slightly and he wondered about the man before him. Who was he? Kuro suddenly became quiet after he realized that he had revealed too much about himself. He bit his lip because he knew that he would have a lot of questions for him. Mahiru smiled in understanding and said, “I won’t ask you about the attack. Let’s focus on your wings.”

He dipped a cloth into a bucket of water and then washed the blood from his wings. While his feathers were white, they had a unique blue hue on the tip and it made Mahiru think of the moon. He was careful to not tangle his feathers as he smoothed an ointment over the wound. “This ointment is made from an herb I grow. They help demon wings and I hope they’ll work on angel wings as well. You should rest your wings for a few days.”

“Thanks.” Kuro said once he finished treating the small wound. He stood and folded his wings beneath his cloak. The slight movement irritated the wound and it caused him to wince. Mahiru must’ve noticed his pain since he quickly jumped to his feet to help him. “I’m fine. I haven’t had to walk in a while so I hope the gate isn’t too far from this farm.”

“Are you planning to go back to the gate right away, Kuro? It’s dangerous. Angels aren’t allowed to be on the demon’s land and you could be put in prison. You can’t fly so it’ll be difficult for you to run if a demon sees you.” Mahiru stopped him from leaving by placing his hands on his shoulders. “You can hide here while your wings heal.”

“Won’t you be in trouble for sheltering an angel?” Kuro pointed out.

“I already crossed the gate to save an angel. I don’t think I can get in more trouble than I already am.” Mahiru shrugged and then a smirk spread across his face. Kuro thought his smile was charming. He had heard that most demons had spells that could bewitch others but he doubted Mahiru was using his powers on him. His smile was simple and honest.

“I’ll stay for the night but I can’t risk staying longer.”

Kuro found himself staying on the farm for a week. He would help Mahiru tend to the garden but he was careful to hide his wings whenever he was outside. Aside from a couple customers, very few people visited Mahiru. He was still wary of other demons discovering that he was an angel but he trusted Mahiru. He had many chances to betray him yet he kept him hidden in his home and tended to his wings.

As he grew to know Mahiru more, he felt conflicted about what he should do. He knew that it was best for him to leave or else someone could discover their secret. On the other hand, Kuro would worry about him if he returned to his castle. What if the assassins who were chasing him learned that Mahiru was the one who saved him?

“Take me back to the time when we first kissed,” Mahiru’s smooth voice brought Kuro out of his thoughts and he turned to him. He sang to the flowers as he watered the garden and the plants danced along to his voice. Kuro enjoyed the simple days he spent with him. He must’ve noticed him staring since he turned to him and their eyes met. “Do I have dirt on my face?”

“A little. Hold still and I’ll get it for you.” Kuro closed the space between them and stopped in front of him. He rubbed his thumb over his soft cheek and brushed the dirt from his face. His fingers lingered on his skin and his touch relaxed Mahiru until his eyes drifted close. “What was that song you were singing? You sing it often.”

“Angels and Demons.” He answered and opened his eyes. They were so close that Mahiru was able to see the small details in Kuro’s stunning eyes. “The song has been passed down in my family. My ancestor was the maid of a noble demon engaged to an angel. Their love was said to be like a fairy tale. At least, that’s what my mother told me. It’s hard to remember a time when we were once at peace.”

“I was raised in that war. When Sensei announced that the fighting was over and the gate was to be made, I was relieved. I never thought I would be here again or see this side of the demon’s society.” Kuro’s hand moved from his cheek to pat his hand. His hand was strong yet it made Mahiru feel safe and reassured. “I would have never met you if you didn’t pass that gate.”

“We’ll probably never see each other again once you return.” He added and Mahiru looked down at the ground. He didn’t want Kuro to see him sad. They had grown close in their time together and he would miss him after he was gone. He knew that it was best for him to return home so he never voiced his thoughts. “How do your wings feel?”

“I haven’t tried to fly yet but they feel strong.” He subtly moved his wings beneath his cloak.

Kuro was taken by surprise when Mahiru suddenly hugged him. “You can’t do something like that while we’re outside, Kuro. Someone might walk by and see that. They’ll question why you’re hiding your wings to begin with. Be careful, okay?”

“I will.” He said but he could feel his cheeks start to burn. Mahiru realized that he was holding him close and became flustered as well. He quickly stepped back from him and he almost tripped on a thick root. Kuro instinctively reached forward to catch him even though Mahiru was able to balance himself on the fence.

They were both distracted and neither noticed the men approaching them. Kuro was the first to sense the army and he turned around to face them. He stepped in front of Mahiru to protect him. He recognized the men who approached him and he was shocked to see angels on the demon’s land. “What are you doing here, Hyde?”

“My brother went missing and I went through the trouble to search for him. You can act a little more grateful, Nii-san.” Hyde said and dismounted from his horse. As he walked closer, Kuro unfurled his wings to hide Mahiru from the men’s eyes. His brother noticed his action and raised a brow at him. “Who is your little friend?”

“He saved my life and treated my wings. Don’t glare at him like that.” Kuro told him and flapped one of his wings to lightly hit Hyde when he leaned too close to Mahiru. “I hope you spoke with the Demon King before you marched the army into his land. It’ll be troublesome if they think that we’re here to cause trouble. We don’t want another war to start.”

“I sent him a message before we opened the gate but I didn’t wait for his reply. I think he’ll understand why. Our prince suddenly went missing and there was evidence that demons attacked him. Let’s return to the castle, Kuro.” Hyde said and placed his hand on his shoulder.

“You’re a prince?” A sharp gasp escaped Mahiru. He didn’t try to hide his shock as he stepped away from the group. Mahiru couldn’t take his eyes off Kuro as he leaned back against the fence. He believed that he was a simple angel but he was truly a prince. He thought of what he said the day he saved him and he now understood them better.

While he hadn’t lied to Mahiru, Kuro still felt guilty for keeping his identity a secret from him. He was confused when Mahiru made a painful laugh. “I’m glad that your family found you.”

Mahiru sprouted his wings and flew away. Kuro quickly flew after him and called his name. “Mahiru, wait!”

#servamp #kuromahi #sloth pair #servamp kuro #mahiru shirota #fanfiction

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pocket-luv101 · 4 years ago

Text

First Impressions // Chapter 3

Fandom: Servamp Ship: LawLicht (main), KuroMahi (side), Tetsono (side), Jekuni (side) Characters: Hyde, Licht, Kuro, Mahiru

Summary: After Licht meets the wealthy bachelor, Hyde, she was certain that she could never be friends with him. Their paths continues to cross and she slowly comes to know him. Licht wonders if she judged him too quickly. (LawLicht, Pride and Prejudice AU, Fem Licht)

Ch.1 // Ch.2 // (Ch.3) //

Mikuni didn’t bother to knock on Misono’s bedroom door before she entered. The room was dark but she had to note that smoke lingered over the candle as if the fire was recently doused. She turned away from the candle and looked to her sisters sleeping on the floor of Misono’s room. The sight reminded her of their childhood where they would make forts and tents to camp on the ground.

She could easily conclude that her sisters were pretending to sleep so they wouldn’t have to start their morning chores. The sun was only beginning to rise so Mikuni didn’t see a reason to wake them. The amber hue of sunrise was tainted with grey rain clouds. They had time before the rooster would wake the town. She knelt next to her sisters and adjusted the blanket over them. Her eyes fell onto the book next to Licht’s pillow, A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

When they returned from the party, Mahiru suggested the sisters sleep in the same room and read the play Licht had brought for Misono. Mikuni knew that the suggestion was to lift Misono’s spirits after their mother’s hurtful words so Mikuni agreed. Her only condition was for them to sleep before midnight because they needed to wake early to care for the horses.

She had to finish the bookkeeping for the night so she told them to sleep first. Since they attended the ball, Mikuni stayed up later than she usually would. She was disappointed that she fell asleep in her office and missed the sleepover with her sisters. She placed the play on the desk and lit the candle again. “I know you’re merely pretending to be asleep, Ladies. While I was walking down the hall, I could hear you three reading the play. It’s not good for your eyesight to read in the dark.”

“Then we shall switch from reading the play to discuss our new neighbours? Licht told us that Hyde was the one to suggest the comedy.” Misono said and gestured for Mikuni to lay down with them. Despite how Mikuni knew it would be more responsible to start the day, she settled onto a pillow instead. “Perhaps we shall see them if we go to the theater. Mahiru will have the opportunity to speak with Kuro again.”

“Mother has voiced her approval of them due to their wealth but I dare say we must protect each other from them. We cannot trust them. Hyde called Mahiru mad when she is clearly an angel! He also bribed the mayor to sneak into the library.” Even as she spoke, Licht thought of her talk with Hyde earlier that night. She rolled onto her stomach and stared out the window to Hanafield manor in the morning light. “There is also their brother who lives in the town under a false name. Who do you think he is?”

“Kuro said his brother has his reasons to hide their family name. We shouldn’t pry. They aren’t a traditional noble family but we shouldn’t judge them. Our peers would say we’re far from conventional women and we know how hurtful it is to be called such.” Mahiru reminded them. The four sisters each had their own passion and they wanted to do more with their skills than call it a hobby. “People are far too complex to judge who they are after only one meeting.”

Mahiru thought of Kuro and pulled her blanket to her lips to hide her grin. She was certain her sisters would tease her for the budding crush. “At first glance, Kuro appears to be the perfect lord with how handsome he is. He can’t dance though. He stepped on my feet several times but his effort was so earnest and charming that I accepted another dance when he asked. I’ve never danced so much in a night.”

“All the mothers at the ball must’ve been jealous of you for catching Lord Ash’s fancy. I’m certain he spent half the night dancing with you. The rest of the night, he spent smiling at you. I would venture to say he’s smitten with you, Mahiru.” Mikuni laughed.

Heavy knocks pounded on the wall and it startled them. Licht instinctively placed her hand on Misono’s shoulder to protect her younger sister. She relaxed when Sakura’s voice travelled through the wall. “I’m trying to sleep! Quiet down!”

“Sakura does have a point. It’ll be better to continue our conversation while we do the morning chores. We won’t be bothering the ones still asleep.” Mahiru said and sat up. “We can’t waste the morning. The stable hands will come soon and I want to make something warm for them to eat. Will you help me, Misono? You can give something special to Tetsu.”

“What? Why would you mention Tetsu specifically in such a way? I don’t have any feelings for him.” Misono insisted with a bright blush.

“Oh, don’t be so upset. Mahiru is teasing you about your crush on Tetsu because you brought up her crush on Kuro earlier.” Mikuni laughed when both of her sisters tried to deny her feelings. She stood and placed the pillows back onto the bed. They cleaned the room and Licht’s eyes fell onto the play Hyde gave her. She made a note to herself to return the book to the library.

She wondered if she would see him once again since he appeared to enjoy reading. Hyde’s teasing grin from the day they met contradicted the soft smile he had at the library. He had heard their mother insult Misono and intended to ask her to dance. She didn’t know if he was motivated by pity or compassion. But the thoughtfulness in his red eyes made her heart stumble for a reason she couldn’t need. Licht cared for her sister and she was happy to see someone treat them kindly.

She didn’t know why she couldn’t stop picturing his face. Licht pulled her thoughts away from the man and she followed her sisters out the door. They went through their morning routine. Their family’s wealth was modest so they couldn’t afford a robust staff to care for the house. The sisters loved the aging building and they would help the staff maintain the home of their memories.

There was a knock on the front door and Licht glanced at the time. It was far too early for their stable hands to arrive and they would usually knock on the back door. Licht answered the door but she didn’t recognize the man on the other side. He bowed politely to her and held out a letter. “Good morning. I am the footman for the Servamps and they asked me to deliver you this invitation.”

“Thank you.” Licht was surprised by the invitation but she took the letter into her hand. She closed the door and she carried the letter to her sisters. She tore off the seal and opened it to skim the words. Mikuni was the first one to notice her reading.

“What is that?” Mikuni asked and looked over her shoulder. “The Servamps are inviting us to morning tea? I didn’t think we had made such a good impression on them to do such. The letter names all of us but my intuition tells me that this is clearly meant for Mahiru. The letter mentions that it was a pleasure to dance and she was the only one to dance with a Servamp.”

“I would love to have tea with the family.” Mahiru took the letter and searched for the line Mikuni mentioned. She smiled to herself once she found it. Then, she folded the letter and placed it on the counter. “But we will be far too busy to pay them a visit. I need to work with the staff to plan for Haruto’s visit next week. Mikuni will be too occupied with the family business to do so.”

“I’m sure Misono can handle the horses while I arrange everything for our cousin.” Mikuni waved away her protest. “Misono has been working with me and the family business for a year now and she can handle it for the day. If you want to go, you can without worrying about us. Do you want to attend the morning tea as well, Licht?”

“Since we went to the party last night, I wasn’t able to practise my piano like I usually would. I planned to compensate for that time by practising an extra two hours today.” Licht could see how excited Mahiru was by the invitation and added: “I would go to protect Mahiru from that demon but his siblings will be there. She should be safe having tea with them.”

“Thank you.” Mahiru beamed a smile at her sisters and held the letter close to her chest. “We would sneak into Hanafield’s garden and play. This will be my first time inside the manor. I will ask them to invite you three another time so you can see it as well. I’m so excited. Oh, we should tell mother and have the carriage prepared before the rain starts.”

Mahiru placed the letter in her pocket as she left the kitchen to tell their mother. She quickly found her in the drawing room and she sat across from her. “Mother, I have been invited to have morning tea. May I take the carriage to visit them? They live next to us but the distance is too far to walk.”

“I have already promised Sakura that we would take the carriage to town and watch the officers enter town. There shall be a parade! She’s so excited to meet a soldier and I hope the weather doesn’t postpone the parade.” Her mother took Mahiru’s hand and patted it gently. She didn’t feel her mother’s warmth after she said: “We have thirty horses and you can ride one to visit your friend for tea. I need the carriage.”

“I understand, Mother.” Mahiru nodded to her. She told herself to look forward to having tea with the Servamps and the opportunity to speak with Kuro again.

“Is this the file that you were looking for, Misono?” Licht asked and held out the folder to her. While she wasn’t as business minded like Mikuni, she did her best to help when Misono asked for her assistance. Mikuni said she trusted her with the family’s business but she felt a little uncertain. She was happy to have Licht’s support. “Perhaps I can bring the piano into the office to play a song to motivate you.”

“You’re a strong angel but I doubt you can carry the pianoforte up the stairs. Even if you did, you’ll leave drag marks on the ground and Mahiru will scream the moment she sees that.” They laughed as they pictured Mahiru’s reaction. She glanced out the window and she noted how heavy the rain had become. “Mahiru hasn’t returned from morning tea yet. Do you think the mud has slowed the carriage?”

As if to answer their question, Mikuni entered the room clutching a letter. Licht immediately knew that something was amiss by her pale face. “The Servamps sent us a message. Mahiru has fallen sick with a cold. She rode a horse to their manor and it started to rain during the last mile of the journey. They’re treating her cold but the doctor says it might take the night for her to recover.”

“Mahiru should know better than to ride a horse in this weather. What on earth would persuade her to do so?” Licht took the letter from her sister. She knew Mikuni would never lie about Mahiru’s condition but she was in disbelief. She wanted to immediately go to the Servamp’s manor to see her condition and to ensure that she was being treated well. In the back of her mind, she was reminded that Misono needed her help with the family business. She loved both of her sisters.

Licht turned to Misono and there was an understanding between them without speaking. “You should go, Licht. I’m worried about Mahiru as well and I’ll feel better if one of us was there with her. Mikuni and I will stay here to deal with the family affairs. We’ll go to Hanafield once we complete the work here.”

“I’ll send you a more detailed letter about Mahiru’s condition the moment I see her.” Licht promised.

She gripped the letter in her fist as she ran down the stairs, taking two steps at a time. Licht only stopped to put on a coat and her bonnet. In the corner of her eyes, she saw her mother step into the foyer. She thought her mother may question why she would run into the rain. She rushed to explain as she tied the ribbons of her bonnet.

“Mahiru has fallen sick from riding in the rain and I must go to her bedside. She is being cared for by the Servamps since they planned to have tea together.” Licht slipped her feet into her boots without lacing them, worried that Mahiru’s condition could worsen if she dawdled for even a moment. “I will ride Pegasus so there’s no need to prepare the carriage.”

“The morning tea was with the Servamps? If I knew, I would’ve allowed her to take the carriage and have her bring Sakura with her. That would’ve been the perfect opportunity for her to impress the family.” Her mother sighed and Licht bit her tongue. “Sakura will be so upset with Mahiru for not telling her. She was already disappointed that we couldn’t take the carriage into town due to this rain.”

“Your daughter has fallen ill yet you speak of the feelings of Sakura’s alone? You have more than one daughter, Mother! Hell, Mahiru has been more of a mother to your daughters and she’s the third oldest of us. You would match us with husbands in exchange for dresses and Father will do the same for money to gamble.” Her worry for Mahiru caused her frustration to boil until she couldn’t contain it. Licht’s yells could be heard throughout the house. She didn’t bother to listen to her mother’s reply before she stormed out the door.

Hyde stood on the perron staircase behind the manor and he was protected from the rain by the canopy above his head. He took a long drag of his cigarette and blew out the smoke. He could see the creek past their garden and he recalled his first meeting with Licht. Their footman sent the family a letter to inform them that Mahiru became sick in the rain.

Sharp blue eyes played on his mind and he pondered if Licht would visit them to see her sister. She threw her shoe at him for insulting Mahiru and yelled at her mother for hurting Misono’s feelings. It was easy to see that she cared more for her sisters than how society saw her. Hyde couldn’t help but respect her passion and conviction.

He put out his cigarette in the ashtray sitting on the stair rail. Hyde intended to return into the warmth of the manor but something past the creek caught his attention. The person was too far for him to know who the rider was but he could see that they were riding towards the creek. He stepped into the rain and walked down the stone staircase.

The creek was only a short walk from Hanafield’s garden so he was able to reach the water with a light jog. On the other side of the creek, the horse continued to sprint towards the water but the rider made no move to slow down. Hyde tried to call out to the person to stop but his voice was drowned out by the rain striking the creek.

His eyes widened when the horse leapt over the creek and landed a few feet next to him. Hyde pulled himself out of his shock and he grabbed the horse’s reins to force it to stop. He shouted up at the rider: “Are you mad to perform such a dangerous jump in this rain?”

“Let go of me, Demon! I need to see my sister.” Hyde recognized Licht’s voice only a moment before she kicked him. Their screams scared her horse and the animal instinctively rose onto its hindlegs. She was thrown from the saddle and she braced herself from the impact with the ground. Instead, she found herself in warm arms when Hyde caught her.

“Are you okay, Angel Cakes?” Hyde asked. His heart was still racing and he didn’t know which of them was more startled. He looked down at her in his arms and the first thing he noticed was the tears staining her cheeks. He assumed that they were caused by worry for her sister and he wanted to reassure her. Before he could, Licht pushed lightly on his chest.

He placed her on the ground and Licht moved in front of the horse. With a simple hand on the horse’s muzzle, it became calm. Licht spoke to the horse in a soft voice and he was surprised by how lulling it was. “It’s okay, Pegasus. I was upset but I shouldn’t have rode so recklessly in the rain. When we return home, I will brush you and give you apples.”

“Our staff can care for your steed.” Hyde offered. He took off his jacket and held it over her head so she would be sheltered from the rain. The hem of her dress was coated in mud and her hair was dishevelled from the ride. Yet, she was still beautiful with her sharp blue eyes. “Your sister is well. The doctor said she only needs rest to recover.”

“I’m glad to hear that.” Licht relaxed and stroked her horse’s mane. “Thank you for taking care of my sister and offering to help my horse. I want to see Mahiru right away.”

“I’ll walk you to the guest room where she’s sleeping.” He nodded. Hyde wanted to ask why she appeared so upset earlier but he didn’t know if it was his place to do so. He changed the subject and said, “I’ll have the staff prepare a towel and warm tea for you. We wouldn’t want you to catch a cold as well. Anyways, I owe you a dress after I ruined the one you wore to the ball.”

“You’re housing my sister while she’s sick. We can consider ourselves even.” She said and looked up at him. He held his jacket over her head and she felt surrounded by warmth.

#servamp #lawlicht #kuromahi #tetsono #servamp hyde #licht jekylland todoroki #mahiru shirota #mikuni alicein #misono alicein #fanfiction #fem licht #fem eves

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pocket-luv101 · 4 years ago

Text

First Impressions // Chapter 1

Fandom: Servamp Ship: LawLicht (main), KuroMahi (side), Tetsono (side), Jekuni (side) Characters: Hyde, Licht, Kuro, Mahiru

(Ch.1) //

Licht was immersed in playing her piano. She loved music and she wanted to become a pianist. She understood that it would be difficult for her to be a professional musician due to her gender. Women were taught music and art but there was an expectation that they would perform as a hobby rather than a career. Despite the limitations, Licht was determined to pursue her dreams.

She hoped to provide for her sisters with her passion as well. While her family were respected among high society, they were far from wealthy. Both of her parents were rather frivolous with money. She had four sisters whom she adored and she wanted to give them an easy life. The hardship the sisters faced brought them closer.

“Father, I must speak with you immediately!” Mikuni yelled as she stormed into the drawing room. Licht was confused by her sister’s tone of voice. She rarely heard her be genuinely angry as she was now. While Mikuni would often feign a dramatic personality around strangers, she was truly a composed and intelligent person. “What is this that I’ve found in the study?”

She slammed a piece of paper onto the table in front of their father. Licht was curious what could’ve made her sister so upset and she stopped playing to listen to their conversation. Mikuni stabbed her finger against the words on the paper and Licht thought the table would break beneath her anger.

“Your will states that our house and land will be inherited by the male heir of our family after your death. Must I remind you that you have five daughters and no sons, Father? If you die without a son, the house will be given to our cousin, Haruto, and he will surely evict us. You will be forcing us to be homeless or to rely on the charity of others.” Mikuni took a pen and pressed it into her father’s hand. “I will not leave this spot until you amend this will so the house will be split equally among the five of us.”

“Mikuni, you are being unreasonable. This is a fairly standard will. Women are not permitted to inherit property so I couldn’t include you in my will. You are very intelligent so you should be able to understand the law.” He said and his answer only made her frown deepen. “Your Uncle Toru is very kind. Perhaps he can take you girls in.”

“We grew up in this house and Mikuni should be the one to inherit it.” Licht argued in support of her sister. “She took over the estate’s finances and she’s the only reason we weren’t forced to sell off the house to settle your gambling debt. Mikuni can run the business better than Haruto. He has never stepped foot on our land and doesn’t know it as well as Mikuni.”

The Eves owned a modest animal farm and their main income came from training horses for nobles. When Mikuni was only seventeen, she had decided to help with the family’s business. She had gained the respect of the workers over the past ten years and they saw her as their manager over her father. Despite her efforts to save her family’s home from debtors, she would still lose it.

“You father and I have already discussed the issue, my sweet children.” Their mother said. “There is no need to worry about our financial security after you find husbands. In fact, a wealthy family will be moving into the estate next to ours. The Servamp family has several eligible bachelors and one will be taken with our beautiful Sakura. Perhaps, several will ask for her hand!”

“The town hall will be throwing a public ball to welcome them to the countryside. I shall introduce you to them.” Her father added.

“A ball? We must go into the village and buy me a new dress for the occasion. All the men will fawn over me.” Sakura cheered in excitement and jumped to her feet. She was the youngest sister at nineteen and she was rather spoiled. Licht hoped that her younger sister would mature out of her vain personality with age. “Mikuni, can I borrow money? I already spent my allowance on my new bonnet.”

“Sakura, we cannot afford to buy you a new dress every time you step out of the house. I’m certain that you will find a suitable gown in your closet.” Mikuni told Sakura sternly. She turned to her parents and her backs straightened. “I don’t agree with your plan to marry us off, as though that will solve the issue. I will find a way for the house to stay in our family.”

“You have always been a headstrong woman.” He sighed. “JeJe, make tea for us. It should help calm Mikuni.”

“JeJe, escort me to the stables. I want to oversee Misono’s riding lesson and whether Tetsu is caring for her properly.” Mikuni purposely spoke over her father. JeJe stopped next to her and she placed her hand on the crook of his arm. She began to leave the room with him. She only looked back to her parents to say: “For the sake of my sisters, I wish you a long and healthy life. I want you to know that I’m disappointed by both of you.”

Licht watched Mikuni leave and she debated if she should go after her. She knew her well enough to understand that her sister would prefer to be alone to think. As she closed the lid on her pianoforte, she decided she should find her fifth sister, Mahiru. She didn’t want her to return home to the tense atmosphere and be confused. She could explain the situation to her so she would be prepared at least.

She wrapped a shawl around her and she left the house. Licht thought of the different places her sister could be on the estate and she immediately walked to the stream. They loved to play in the shallow water when they were children and Mahiru still loved the spot. She could trust to find her next to the stream with a sketchbook on her lap.

Licht passed the horse stable and crossed the field to reach the creek that bordered their property. She stared at the grand manor that rested on the other side of the creek. Her mother said the Servamp family would move into the estate in a week. She didn’t agree with her plan to arrange marriages for them. She was a little curious about the family though. Even lost in thought, her feet were familiar with the path and she could walk to the creek easily.

In the distance, she could see her sister. Mahiru sat on a wooden swing that hung from the tree overlooking the lake. She didn’t call out to her immediately because she wanted to play a childish prank on her. She crept behind her sister so she wouldn’t notice her immediately. The moment Mahiru stopped drawing, Licht jumped forward and lightly grabbed her shoulders. “Surprise, Mahiru!”

“Licht?” She gasped and almost fell off the swing. Mahiru placed her feet on the ground and rocked her body back so she was looking up at Licht. “Is it time for lunch already? I was certain that the bell only rang ten times. I’ll start cooking. Is there anything particular you want to eat?”

The sisters would do the chores around the house to help save money. They had to depend on each other while they were growing up. Their father was often gambling and their mother only doted on Sakura. Mikuni’s efforts to save their family home inspired the others to do the same. Licht wanted to become a pianist, Misono helped Mikuni and Mahiru worked with the house’s staff.

“I came to warn you that Mikuni had another fight with father about the family estate. I didn’t want you to be blindsided when you return home.” The swing seat was wide enough for two people so Licht sat next to her sister. She lightly pushed the swing into motion with her feet and Mahiru mirrored her movements. She told her about their father’s will as they swinged slowly.

Mahiru stared at the sketchbook on her lap where she had drawn their house. They had countless memories connected to their home and she couldn’t think of leaving everything behind. “Father is still in good health so we still have time for the will to be changed. Perhaps, the title can be given to Uncle Toru. I trust him not to throw us out. I would prefer if Mikuni was given the house but it’s nearly impossible.”

“By the law of arrogant men, property cannot be owned by property. We are so much more than what they see us as. Women should be provided the same rights as men.” Licht spat. Her anger became a cunning grin and she said: “In the event that the house does fall into Haruto’s hands, we must welcome him with a feast.”

“Extending an olive branch could help us keep the house.” Mahiru nodded. “We can explain to him that it’ll be best for everyone to have Mikuni run the estate.”

“I had planned to poison his wine. We shall keep his death a secret and tell the lawyers that he is simply on a business trip. We can live in our home indefinitely. Though, we will need to find a safe way to dispose of his body.” Licht suggested. Mahiru knew that she was partially joking with her outlandish suggestion and she laughed. She wanted to ease the tense atmosphere with the joke.

“Licht, you must stop reading those gothic novels. They’re quite macabre. Maybe we can get away with your plan because the constable will not suspect women of being so ruthless.” Mahiru stopped the swing and she stared at the garden across the lake. “Do you remember how we would cross the creek to pick the flowers on Hanafield? It’ll be dangerous to sneak into the garden now that it’s being rented.”

“Well, the Servamps won’t be here until next week. We should pick flowers while we still can. No one will notice if a few goes missing.” Licht jumped off the swing and took her sister’s hands. She lightly tugged her off the swing and then pulled her towards the creek. A fallen tree reached over the water and they used it as a bridge.

“We shouldn’t trespass on someone’s property, Licht. We were young when we went to pick flowers from Hanafield’s garden and we didn’t know that they belonged to someone else.” Mahiru followed her sister even though she felt a little concerned. She had always admired how free-spirited Licht was. “We should only pick the wildflowers next to the creek.”

“Alright. But we should collect enough to make flower crowns for Mikuni and Misono and all of the horses in the stables!” Licht decided and Mahiru nodded in agreement.

They reached the end of the fallen tree and Licht held onto her sister’s hand to keep her balance as she stepped down. The wood was slippery but she wasn’t afraid of falling into the creek. Her slippers were flat and allowed her to walk easier than heels. The two sisters didn’t notice the horses grazing on the grass downstream from the log.

“You shouldn’t be trespassing on this land, Ladies. May we escort you back to the village?” A voice behind her caused Licht to turn her head slightly to see who it was. She took her eyes off the ground and she placed her feet on a loose tree branch. She felt herself fall backwards and her stomach dropped. Licht didn’t want to drag her sister into the water as well so she let go of her hand.

Mahiru called her name but her voice was quickly muffled by water. Between the cold water and the impact of the water, Licht was disorientated. She managed to turn herself in the water to see sister reach out to her but someone held her back. The layers of Licht’s dress made it difficult to swim to the surface. Her lungs burned but she knew she couldn’t breathe in as her body screamed for her to.

Suddenly, a warmth surrounded her hand.

Licht was pulled out of the creek and she could finally breathe again. She clung to the creek’s bank and took a moment to collect herself. A hand patted her back and she found it easier to breathe with the light touch. She wasn’t able to thank the person who saved her before Mahiru took her attention. Her sister knelt in front of her and immediately placed a shawl around her wet shoulders.

“Did you hit your head, Licht? Do you feel dizzy? We must take you to the doctor to see if you have a concussion or hurt.” Mahiru insisted. Even though she was the middle sister, she would mother her sisters. “Thank the gods that this gentleman was here to save you. Let me help you out of the water, Licht. Keep the shawl around you.”

Mahiru’s words made Licht realize that her clothes were soaked through. She was grateful that she wore a dark blue dress and it didn’t reveal anything. Licht tied the shawl around her shoulders before she took the hand Mahiru held out to her. She climbed out of the water and looked back into the creek. The man who saved her had his back turned to her and she assumed it was out of politeness.

“Thank you,” Licht said to him. The blond man turned to face her and she thought that he had a handsome face. He had jumped into the water to save her without hesitation so he was likely a kind man.

“We would love to speak with you gentlemen longer but I must take my sister to the doctor. She also needs dry clothes.” Mahiru interrupted them and Licht knew that she was right. They exchanged a polite goodbye as they left. Licht heard water splash behind them and she assumed the man had climbed out of the water. She wondered if she’ll get the chance to thank him for saving her and learn his name.

She grew up in the countryside so she knew most of the residents. Licht didn’t recognize him though. She looked over her shoulder to the blond man. He walked to another man and she recognized that he was the one to stop Mahiru from jumping after her. Their appearances didn’t resemble each other but the way they regarded each other reminded her of siblings.

Then, she overheard their conversation.

“Who do you think they were, Kuro? Their clothes are refined but their manner doesn’t reflect that. Her sister tried to jump into the water. I know she intended to help her sister but she wouldn’t have been able to do much. At least you were there to stop her. Which family do you think they belong to?”

“Hyde, you shouldn’t call her sister— Hyde?” Kuro yelled in shock when a slipper flew past him to strike his brother. His voice was drowned out by Licht’s rage.

“How dare you speak lowly of my sister, Shit Rat? Apologize or face me in a duel!” Licht yelled. She loved her family and she wouldn’t allow someone to disrespect them. She took off her other slipper to throw at him but her sister stopped her. Mahiru knew her words were far from a threat and she tried to pull her back. “Never step onto my creek again!”

Hyde couldn’t pull himself out of his shock to respond to her. He didn’t intend to insult her family and upset her. He wasn’t able to apologize before she was gone. Beside him, Kuro sighed: “That was a terrible way to introduce ourselves to the neighbours.”

#servamp #lawlicht #greed pair #servamp hyde #licht jekylland todoroki #fanfiction #fem licht

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pocket-luv101 · 6 years ago

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Across Time || Chapter 12

Fandom: Servamp Ships: KuroMahi (main), LawLicht (side) Characters: Kuro, Mahiru, Hyde, Licht

Summary: Mahiru falls into a well and is taken to a new, fantasy world. He comes across a half-blooded cat demon trapped in a tree. After he frees Kuro, he helps him collect the shards of the sacred jewel. (KuroMahi, InuYasha AU)

Ch.1 || Ch.2 || Ch.3 || Ch.4 || Ch.5 || Ch.6 || Ch.7 || Ch.8 || Ch.9 || Ch.10 || Ch.11 || (Ch.12) ||

“Do you two know about the demon slayers and where they may live?” Mahiru asked Kuro and Hyde as they were preparing to leave the cabin. “While I was gathering herbs this morning, I met one. We didn’t talk for long but he told me that the jewel was created in his village. Maybe they can tell us more about the jewel and how we can reform it once we gather all the shards.”

“The jewel was created thousands of years ago and there are many rumours around how it was created. No one knows it’s true origin or much about it except that it holds the power of demons and miko.” Kuro sat next to Mahiru who had a map spread before him. “The demon slayers’ village is in the mountains but I don’t know where exactly. They move every few years to stay hidden.”

“Even if we knew where the demon slayers live, we can’t possible go to them for help. They’re demon slayers. The moment they see us, they’ll try to kill us.” Hyde reminded them. He thought that Kuro would be more logical but he went along with Mahiru’s plan without argument. “I’ve met a few demon slayers and they despise us. I vote that we continue to gather the shards. No detours.”

“The demon slayers are gathering the shards as well so we’ll have to talk to them eventually. Thinking simply, it’s best if we approach them first. The demon slayer I met had a pet nekomata and they were close. He works with a demon so we should try to talk to him at least.” Mahiru said and looked to Kuro for help. “At least let me talk to them alone. They might be more willing to speak with me since I’m human.”

Kuro understood both of their argument. But, after their encounter with Touma, it was clear they needed more allies for their journey. He was powerful and they didn’t know when they would have to face him again. The wolf clan were in hiding so they couldn’t ask them for help. On the other hand, Kuro didn’t know if the demon slayer village would be willing to help them. He didn’t feel comfortable making Mahiru go into the village by himself either.

“We don’t know where the village is exactly. With Touma searching for the jewels as well, we can’t take a long break to search for it.” Kuro reasoned. He noticed how Mahiru frowned and his disappointment tugged at his heart. “We have to cross the mountain to reach the next town. While we’re going through the path, we can search for both the village and the shards. If we don’t meet a slayer, we move on.”

“Okay,” Mahiru nodded with a smile. He folded the map and placed it in his backpack. He hoped that they would be able to meet Licht again since Mahiru assumed he was willing to work with demons. Kirara was a nekomata and Licht treated it kindly. “Let’s go. We don’t want to waste the day and demons come out at night.”

“Just give me a moment to clean up the firepit. It should only take me a moment so you can wait outside.” Hyde lied but Mahiru didn’t question his words. He took his bag and walked outside. When Kuro would’ve followed him, his brother stopped him. Kuro knew that Hyde wanted to speak with him in private from how serious his eyes were.

The moment Mahiru closed the door, Hyde said: “Do you truly believe asking the demon slayers for help is a good idea? Can we even trust Mahiru? He doesn’t understand a lot of common things and he has to ask about them. Don’t you think that it’s a little strange?”

“You should learn to trust people more.” Kuro said. He was certain that he would also be suspicious if he hadn’t spent so much time with Mahiru. They hadn’t explained to Hyde that Mahiru was from the future either. He thought of a vague explanation. “Mahiru grew up in a peaceful village. You can call it another time with how different it is.”

“That explains why he’s so naïve.” Hyde sighed. “You weren’t this naïve years ago though. Mahiru has made you more hopeful and optimistic. I can’t decide if that’s a good or bad thing because you’re now delusional enough to talk to slayers.”

“I trust Mahiru’s judgement in people.” Kuro said and looked at him through the window. “You will see that he’s right after we talk with that demon slayer he mentioned.”

“Why did Father order me to stay in the village? The castle requested our strongest slayers so I should’ve gone with them.” Licht complained to Kirara. He sat on the wooden gate that protected his village from demons. He stared at the path his father and the other slayers took earlier that morning. A nearby castle requested their services to kill a demon who attacked them for the past three nights.

“While the lord wanted our strongest, we cannot send you. You need to be here to protect our village while your father is away.” His mother said next to him. He understood the reason but he hated being left behind. Since he started training as a child, he was taught that slayers survived by fighting together. She seemed to read his thoughts because she added, “Everyone will come home safe.”

“Because angels fight together.” He repeated the comforting phase his mother taught him.

“The mission shouldn’t take more than a few hours and your father will be home soon. There’s a lot of work to do in that time so come down. Kranz made new boots for you and we want to see how well you can fight with the new design.” She lightly told him. She gave both Licht and Kirara a light pat before she descended from the gate.

Licht was about to follow her but he noticed something in the mountain path. A storm of sand approached them rapidly. Even from a distance, he knew that it was an army of scorpion demons approaching them. He jumped to his feet to warn the village but the flare of a horn interrupted him. He thought the others noticed the demon as well. “Demon bears are approaching on the west.”

“More demons?” He cursed. Most of their slayers were gone so it would be difficult to defend their village. They didn’t have time to evacuate either. Licht whistled and Kirara grew to the size of a tiger. He sat on its back and it took him to his mother below. “We’re being flanked by demons. The archers can take down the bears but the scorpions’ armour is too thick.”

“We need to send a message to your father and tell him that we’re under attack. We’ll fight the demons as long as we can until reinforcement returns. Licht, you’re the fastest person here so you have to be the one to send the message.” She told him.

“But I need to be here to fight!” Licht argued. He couldn’t stand the thought of running away while his village fought the approaching demons. The ground shook beneath his feet and he knew they didn’t have time to argue. The demons would be upon them soon. “Angels don’t run away. We fight together.”

“Get your father! You can’t defeat so many demons at once and we need help. Go before it’s too late.” She said and ran into the fray to help the other slayers fight. He wanted to fight with them but he couldn’t counter his mother’s argument. He climbed off Kirara and pointed towards the fight.

“Help protect the village while I get Father. I’ll be back soon.” He said and the nekomata nodded. The castle was nearby and he hoped they weren’t in the middle of the mission so they return quickly. Licht squeezed through a small opening in the gate and hurried down the path. He was known for his speed and how he seemed to fly whenever he ran. He prayed that his legs wouldn’t fail him.

Behind him, the sound of battle spurred him faster. The path to the castle was a blur to him because his focus was saving his village. He spotted the looming building before him but he didn’t feel hope or relief. Licht could hear a demon’s roar and they were likely in the middle of fighting. He didn’t want to abandon the castle but there was only one demon there while there were hundreds approaching his village.

A few soldiers in front of the gate tried to stop him but Licht was easily able to evade their attacks. He ducked beneath their swords and skidded to a stop in front of the door. He forced open the gate with a powerful kick. Licht took a few steps into the courtyard but he immediately fell to his knees. His hands flew over his mouth to stop himself from throwing up.

In front of Licht, a halfblooded cat demon stood over his dead father and friends.

He felt a sharp pain shot through his chest but he realized it was caused by more than the sight before him. Licht touched his chest that was warm from his own blood. An arrow struck his shoulder and he glanced behind him. His vision became hazy but he was certain that he saw Mahiru with his bow raised. Licht collapsed to the ground.

“I smell blood. A lot of it too.” Kuro stopped when the strong scent of blood caught his attention. His stomach turned and he covered his nose. Hyde did the same and they both turned to where the smell was thickest. Mahiru followed their gaze and saw smoke drifting above the mountaintops. He immediately took Kuro’s hand and pulled him forward.

“Slow down, Mahiru. These mountain paths are dangerous and you’re going to break your neck if you fall.” Kuro warned. He didn’t stop running as he swept Mahiru into his arms. He wasn’t surprised and he allowed him to carry him up the mountain. “That could be the demon slayers’ village or a demon attack. Do you sense a jewel shard nearby?”

“No.” Mahiru became more worried the closer they came to the smoke. The air was far too quiet. If a strong demon had attacked, it was likely gone by now. He didn’t to imagine the scene they would find for Kuro’s expression to be so grim. He wrapped him arms around his neck and pressed his face against his skin. Kuro was strong and brave and Mahiru hoped to share both with him.

They almost fell back down the mountain when they were meet with a logged wall. Kuro stabbed his claws into the wood to keep them from falling. He looked back to his brother and he was relieved to find that Hyde hadn’t fallen. The ledge next to the gate was thin and he could easily picture more reckless demons falling for the trap.

“Traps like these are the demon slayer’s specialties. I think we found their village.” Kuro hoped that the village survived the attack. Between the smoke and blood, he almost hesitated to enter the village. He didn’t want the sight to scar Mahiru but he reminded himself that he was stronger than most. He stood on the thin ledge and said, “If we walk around this wall, we should find a door eventually.”

“Or we can be direct.” Hyde said and gripped the lower bar of the gate. He struggled to pull it up and Kuro helped him. As the spikes raised out of the ground, Hyde kicked the sturdy wood. Once there was a hole in the gate, they dropped the bar. The ground shook slightly when it hit the dirt again and Kuro placed his hand on Mahiru’s back to keep him balanced.

Hyde broke off more of the fence and squeezed through the opening they made. The fact that a slayer hasn’t attacked us yet was a bad sign to him. He cursed softly when he saw the ravaged village. Human and demon bodies laid over the ground. He scanned the village but it was difficult to see if there were any survivors. “Slayers are strong warriors so I can’t imagine they would be ambushed so easily.”

“We should bury their bodies out of respect.” Mahiru said. He wished they had come across the village earlier so they could’ve helped defend the slayers.

“Be careful, Mahiru. There may still demons here so we should kill them before we bury the villagers.” He warned. Kuro noticed a large cat demon prowl through the wreckage and nudge a few of the bodies. It didn’t seem violent but he was still wary of the demon. While he summoned his claws, Mahiru let go of his hand and walked towards the nekomata.

“Kirara, is that you? It’s me, Mahiru. Do you recognize me?” He took out a biscuit as he approached the demon carefully. Kirara walked to him and sniffed his hand before it licked the treat from his palm. Mahiru petted the cat and spoke softly. “Where is Licht? Are there any survivors?”

“I know you’ve been spending a lot of time with my brother but I don’t think you can talk to a wild nekomata.” Hyde’s voice caught the demon’s attention and it growled at him. It calmed once Mahiru scratched its ear gently. “We won’t learn much about the sacred jewel here. Let’s start digging graves and make markings for them.”

“Wait, Kirara says that there are other slayers.” Kuro knelt in front of the large cat. He was able to understand the demon vaguely and repeated its words. “The village’s most powerful slayers were sent on a mission earlier today. The demons attacked shortly after they left. Its owner, Licht, went to get them but he hasn’t returned yet.”

“If there are survivors, I don’t know how to tell them about what happened here.” Mahiru’s voice was filled with sympathy. Kuro stood behind him and placed his hand on his shoulders.

“Father?” Licht’s sight was blurry when he woke and it took him a moment to focus his vision. His body was warm and a thick blanket laid over him. He tried to push it off him but pain shot through him whenever he moved. He fought the dull ache in his shoulder and sat up. The room around him was unfamiliar and he muttered, “Where am I?”

“You shouldn’t move with your injury.” He turned to the voice. He hadn’t heard the man enter the room and his sudden appearance made Licht suspicious. The man wore a spider mask so he couldn’t read his expression for lies. “My name is Touma and you are in my castle. The demons fled shortly after you arrived.”

“What about my father and the other slayers. Are they in another room?” He asked and touched the bandages over his chest. They managed to treat his wounds so he prayed they were able to help his family as well. He remembered his mother and threw off the blanket. “How long have I been asleep? I need to speak with my father and go back to my village!”

His determination was stronger than his body. Licht slumped to the ground but he claws at the floor to stand again. The man knelt in front of him and said, “You are the only demon slayer left. The halfblooded demon you saw killed the others. I heard rumours that they planned the attack on your village.”

A shudder passed over his body and his hands tightened in the bedding. “Give me my armour and boots. I will track down that bloody demon and the man with the arrow. I’ll avenge my village.”

“You’re still injured so you cannot fight them with your own power. But you can get revenge with this,” Touma held out a jewel shard to him.

Mahiru sat on Kirara’s back and let the large cat take him to the castle. The nekomata wouldn’t allow the others onto its back so Kuro and Hyde walked behind them. Kuro knew they could trust the demon because Mahiru recognized it from his brief meeting with Licht. Yet, he couldn’t help but feel a little jealous when he saw how he scratched its ears.

Kirara’s ears perked and it started to trot forward. Mahiru was confused by its sudden excited demeanour until he looked ahead of them. He spotted Licht and Mahiru waved to him. “You’re alive, Licht! It’s me, Mahiru. Do you remember me?”

Licht didn’t answer but he walked towards them. At first, Mahiru assumed that they were too far for Licht to hear them. He gasped when Licht seemingly vanished and reappeared in front him. He kicked his arm and knocked him off Kirara’s back. Mahiru hit the ground hard and his hand scrapped against the dirt. He couldn’t recover quickly enough to summon a shield to defend himself from Licht’s next kick.

Kuro took Mahiru’s arm and pulled him away from his attack. “Why does everyone we meet attacks us before they say hello? Can’t deal.”

“Licht has a piece of the jewel in his back.” He told him. Kuro kept a hand on his hip even after he stood. Mahiru faced Licht but he hesitated to fight him. He remembered the kind smile he had when they first spoke and his instincts told him that he was a good person. “Why did you attack us, Licht? Is it because Kuro and Hyde are demons? They not violent so—”

He wasn’t given a chance to finish when Licht continued to attack them. He was quick and Mahiru was certain that he wouldn’t be able to evade his kick without Kuro. He clung to his arm as he jumped back. The ground cracked beneath Licht’s foot and Kuro held Mahiru tighter against his side. “I don’t think your demon slayer friend is going to listen to you.”

A dark chuckle caught their attention. Touma stood a few feet behind Licht but he merely watched the battle. “Son of Hanako, your spiritual power is strong but it’s useless against a human. Licht, once you defeat these two, please return to my castle.”

Touma turned and left. Mahiru slipped out of Kuro’s arms and tried to chase after him. His instincts told him that the demon manipulated Licht to fight them. Thinking simply, the best way to end the battle without his friends being hurt was to force Touma to tell Licht the truth. He took an arrow from his quiver as he ran. “Stop!”

“Your opponent is me.” Licht stepped into his path and kicked his arrow out of his hands. “Demon slayers have a duty to protect humans. You forfeit that right the moment you and your friend targeted my village. My parents are dead because of you!”

“This is a misunderstanding, Licht!” He realized that Licht thought that they were the ones who attacked the demon slayers. A storm of anger and grief fueled his attacks. Mahiru questioned if they would be able to reason with him when he was so upset. He tried to chase Touma again but it was impossible with Licht’s relentless attacks. He lifted his leg high into the air to kick them again.

Hyde’s sword came between them to cut through his attack. He was shocked by how quickly the slayer adjusted his attack. Licht brought his foot down on the flat face of his sword. The power behind his attack forced him onto one knee but Hyde managed to hold his stance. Licht glared down at him while Hyde gave him a roguish smirk. “I can’t let you kill my brother and his mate, Angel Cakes.”

“An angel doesn’t need permission from a demon like you. I won’t let anyone get in the way of my revenge. Step aside, Shit Rat.” He ordered and placed more pressure on the sword. Hyde was impressed by his strength but he knew it wasn’t time for admiration. He tilted his sword and Licht’s foot slipped off his blade. He rested his sword on his shoulder to stop him from attacking again.

Licht knew that the demon would cut him the moment he moved. Hyde didn’t take his eyes off him as he spoke to his brother. “Kuro, Mahiru, go after Touma. I’ll keep this man busy.”

“Okay. Be careful, Hyde.” Kuro was confident that his brother would be able to defend himself against a demon slayer. He took Mahiru’s hand and they ran after Touma.

“Don’t you dare try to run away!” Licht ducked beneath his blade and tried to stop the two. He didn’t have much strength left so he had to defeat the two quickly. He needed to defeat the irritating demon before him first. While the blond man appeared human, Licht could sense his demonic aura. He dodged the man’s blade and kicked his leg. “Out of my way, Shit Rat.”

“I can’t do that. I understand how you feel when you said you want to take revenge on my brother. In fact, I felt the same just three days ago.” His smile annoyed Licht. He didn’t know how he could banter in the midst of a fight. He noticed how the demon didn’t counter his strikes and only blocked. “You’re in no shape to kill anyone.”

“I’m an angel.” He said simply and kicked him. Hyde gripped his wrist and jerked him forward to throw him off balance. When he fell into his chest, Hyde placed his hands on his waist and threw him on his shoulder. Licht thrust his spiked boot into his stomach. “Put me down!”

“You shouldn’t struggle so much, Angel Cakes. It smells like you lost a lot of blood and I don’t want you to lose more.” Hyde patted his leg and walked forward. Licht continued to struggle but then Kirara moved in front of them. He thought his pet would help him but it licked his hand instead. Kirara seemed to trust the demon even though it must’ve witness them attack their home.

Once he paused, Hyde said: “It’s time to talk.”

“Should we really leave Hyde like we did?” Mahiru asked. He readied his arrow as Kuro carried him on his back. “There’s no need to fight since the reason Licht attacked us is a misunderstanding. We also need more people if we’re going to face Touma since he’s so strong. I don’t know if I can summon a strong shield like yesterday.”

“Hyde can handle himself. That demon slayer appears strong but it’s obvious that he’s injured and can’t fight well. We should focus on Touma.” Kuro told him. He was more concerned by Touma’s earlier comment. Attacks fuelled by spiritual energy were ineffective against humans. Did Touma manipulate Licht to specifically target Mahiru? The thought made his stomach turn and he tightened his hold on Mahiru.

On his back, Mahiru released his arrow but it barely nicked him. He couldn’t aim well because the fur cloak billowed wildly in the air. He forced himself not to become frustrated and drew another arrow. Mahiru gathered his spiritual powers and aimed at Touma’s back. His arrow flew from his fingers and struck Touma.

His body didn’t fall to the ground like Mahiru expected it would. He didn’t seem to be affected by the arrow. Thick roots grew beneath Touma and lifted him into the air. Kuro skidded to a stop and used his claws to destroy one of the roots. The tendril felt like stone. He cursed when the root reformed and attacked him again. “I hate spiders.”

“Touma, how many lives do you have to ruin while you search for the shards?” Mahiru yelled. “You’re strong enough to take people’s shards without tricks and schemes but you choose to be needlessly cruel.”

“I only told the demons in the mountain that the slayer’s village would be lightly guarded today. The slayers often claim to be a strong group who can defeat any demon but, in the end, they’re all pitiful humans. Their pride and delusions are what killed them.” Touma brushed aside Mahiru’s words with his nonchalant tone. “Foolish humans are easy to manipulate.”

Something in the sky caught Touma’s attention and he looked up. Licht leapt off Kirara’s back and kicked his chest. His attack hurled him back to the ground and dirt rose into the air at the impact. He stood over his still body and glowered. “We are angels.”

Hyde had brought him to the battle a few moments early. The confession created a storm of rage within Licht. He didn’t know how he let himself be tricked by a demon. He hadn’t sensed a demonic presence when they spoke in the castle. As he glared down at Touma, understanding dawned on him. “You call my village pitiful but you’re to scared to be here and fight yourself.”

Licht stomped on his heart and the body dissolved into sand. A strange, wooden doll laid broken beneath his feet once the dust settled. Mahiru was confused until Licht explained, “A dirty trick. He created a demon doll of himself and sent it to fight you.”

“That would explain why he wasn’t as strong as the last time we faced him.” Hyde burned the remains of the doll so it couldn’t reform. Mahiru approaches Licht and smiled kindly at him.

“Thank you for your help, Licht. Can you show me the wound on your back?” Mahiru asked. Licht didn’t answer him because it was too painful to speak. He sank to the ground and Mahiru understood that he was accepting his help. He held out his hands to his back and summoned his spiritual energy to heal the wound. “Does it hurt?”

“The jewel shard repressed my pain. Take it out.” Licht unfastened his shirt and slid it off his shoulder. When Mahiru didn’t immediately take the shard, he looked over his shoulder to him. “If you’re afraid of hurting me, don’t. I don’t want the jewel in my body or else its power might corrupt me.”

“We wanted to visit your village to ask you about the jewel since it was created there.” Hyde said and Mahiru lightly hit his arm.

“Licht has been through a lot so we should give him time to recover before we ask him anything.” He chastised him. Mahiru took the jewel from his back and healed the wound. “Do you want to go back to your village where you can recover more?”

“My village…” Licht bit his lip when he thought of his family. Tears rose in his through but he stopped himself from crying. He didn’t want to break down in front of strangers. A warm haori fell over him and he looked up to see that Hyde was the one who gave him the jacket. He pulled the fabric over his face and he let his grief flow as tears.

Mahiru rubbed his back to comfort him. “I’m sorry that this happened to you, Licht. Is there anything we can do?”

“Help me avenge my village.”

#servamp #kuromahi #sloth pair #servamp kuro #mahiru shirota #lawlicht #greed pair #servamp hyde #licht jekylland todoroki #fanfiction

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pocket-luv101 · 8 years ago

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The Forest of Ash || Ch. 6

Fandom: Servamp Characters: Mahiru, Kuro, Licht, Hyde Pairings: KuroMahi (main), LawLicht (side)

Summary: To stop the never ending winter the gods created, Mahiru entered the Forest of Ash to steal fire and gift it to the humans. When he was caught, he thought that he would be put to death. But Kuro was far from the God of the Dead that he heard stories about. He decided to stay in the Forest of Ash with him. {KuroMahi//Greek Mythology AU}

FFNet || AO3

Ch.1 || Ch.2 || Ch.3 || Ch.4 || Ch.5 || (Ch.6) || Ch.7 || Ch.8 || Ch.9 || Ch.10 || Ch.11 || Ch.12 || Ch.13 || Ch.14 || Ch.15 || Ch.16 || Ch.17 || Ch.18 || Ch.19 || Ch.20

Licht sat next to Hyde and brushed his bangs aside so he could wipe the sweat from his brow. He dragged him back into the cave but he hadn't woken yet. It had been hours and he had been tending to his injuries in that time. He dressed the wound on his shoulder and he stopped the bleeding but Licht was still concerned. Gods were immortal but they could still feel pain.

"Open your eyes, Shit Rat." Licht ordered as he poked his cheek repeatedly. He didn't move. With an irritated sigh, he pulled his knees to his chest and hugged his legs. He couldn't find the Forest of Ash without him so he had to stay by his side. He hated to admit it, but there was another reason he couldn't leave Hyde. When they faced Tsubaki, Hyde was already hurt but he thought about him before himself. "I don't understand you. You scoff at life and insult me but you try to protect me."

Licht thought back to the night he first found Hyde. He was compelled to save him and treated his wounds because he thought he was a dying human. Now, he knew the truth but he found himself doing the same thing. He stared down at him for a moment and then forced himself to turn away. He had no intention of being with the Olympian longer than needed so he pushed his confusing feelings aside.

Licht focused on the fire and added tinder to fuel the flames. He needed to be careful of the fire going out because only the Olympians could create fire. If Hyde didn't wake up before the fire died, Licht would have to pray to another Olympian for fire. With the war between the Olympians, he didn't know if they would listen to his prayers once they knew that Hyde was with him.

"You're more trouble than you're worth." Licht searched through his bag for anything else he could use to keep them warm. He pulled out the cloak Hyde gave him but his warning echoed in his mind. Heat would make his wings melt so he couldn't give the cloak to Hyde. He glanced back at the god and returned to his side. "I guess I have no choice."

Licht crawled beneath the blanket and laid down next to him. He kept his back to Hyde but he could feel his warmth behind him. He watched the cave's entrance for anyone that could attack him but it was difficult to focus on anything aside from Hyde.

"Please don't do this… Please change your mind…" Hyde's hoarse voice made him jump a little. Licht sat up and leaned over him so he could see his face better. His eyes were still closed and he was sweating a little but what worried Licht was his incoherent murmurs. "I'll give anything… Just don't do this. Don't try to be some tragic hero!"

"Hyde, wake up!" Licht knew that he was trapped in a nightmare. From his words, he guessed that he was reliving the dinner scene where Sleepy Ash made the decision that tore the Olympians apart. Anguish and regret was clear to see on his face and his brows were furrowed. He shook his shoulder to pull him out of his nightmare. "It's just a dream."

"I love you." Hyde blindly reached out and grabbed his hand resting on his shoulder. His action threw Licht off balance and he fell onto his chest. Before he could push himself off him, Hyde wrapped his arms around his waist and hugged him. Licht tried to struggle out of his hold but his grip only tightened around him. He buried his face in his black hair and whispered. "My sweet Ophelia."

Licht froze when he heard the unfamiliar name. None of the Olympians were named Ophelia and he hadn't heard of a woman with that name. But he knew that she must've been someone important from the pain in Hyde's voice. He began to panic as Hyde pulled him closer. Licht forced himself out of his arms and kicked him roughly. "Don't kiss me, Shit Rat!"

"What was that for, Licht?" Hyde yelled as he woke.

"Die 'til you die, Shit Rat!" Licht's face was crimson as he continued to kick him. He was confused by the entire situation but tried to defend himself against his attacks. Hyde didn't know why but his expression was a mixture of anger and a blush.

"Don't hurt the injured, Lichtan!" He screamed and was relieved when Licht relented. Hyde watched him march away and he rubbed his sore back. He wondered what he did to anger him. Licht was sitting in front of the fire with a scowl as he stirred a pot. Seeing his lips set in a hard line, Hyde moved to his side and sat next to him. "I'm sorry. Did I say something in my sleep?"

"Forget it," Licht said as he poured soup into a bowl. Then he thrust the bowl in front of Hyde with the order, "Eat it. You need to regain your strength so we can save Mahiru. We already wasted enough time in this cave. I thought about leaving you here."

"But you didn't." He pointed out and he couldn't help grinning. But he had to grimaced at the green soup Licht handed him. Licht was a terrible cook and the vegetables floating in the soup looked burnt. Still, Hyde forced a grateful smile on his face as he ate. "This brings back memories. We would have dinner just like this. I really missed those nights."

"Don't think that this changes anything. I'm only doing this because I need your help to rescue Mahiru." Licht said. From the corner of his eyes, he glanced at the bandages around Hyde's shoulder. "Your brother, Tsubaki, attacked you. You said you would explain why once we're safe in the cave. Shouldn't you two be on the same side if you both disagree with Sleepy Ash?"

"He blames all of us for what happened. Sleepy Ash made the final decision but none of us stopped him. Tsubaki fought to save the human while we just accepted his decision." Hyde sighed as the memory of that night echoed in his mind. He absentmindedly ate but he could barely taste the soup. Licht could hear the deep regret in his voice despite how he tried to hide it.

"What you did in the past doesn't matter." Licht took his bowl from him to pour more soup into it. He handed it back to him with determination in his eyes. "It's what you do now. When we reach the Forest of Ash, I'll save Mahiru and you'll save your human."

"Change the flame's shape like this." Kuro guided Mahiru's hands around the small flame between them. They were in the throne room and he would teach him how to control fire between judgments. Mahiru could only make a small fire but Kuro thought that was best for the time being. He thought that it would be better for him to learn how to control fire before they tried to draw out more of his power. "Make sure to keep the fire strong even when you stretch it."

Mahiru bit his lip in concentration as he tried to force the flame into the shape of a square. It was difficult to hold the fire in place and it ended up being a misshapen rectangle. "Don't try to force it too much. I already told you that fire is dangerous and hard to control. It's easier to guide it. Think of it like your clouds but be more assertive towards it. Try to make a circle."

He focused on the fire and tried to change its shape again. The flame was still a little unsteady but it was a circle. Their lesson was interrupted when Charon entered the throne room. Mahiru closed his hands over the flame and tried to adjust his position in the throne. It was only barely large enough for the two of them to share and Kuro wondered if he should have a throne made for Mahiru.

"My lord, the next visitor is a human that has a request." Charon said. A man stopped in front of them and Kuro sat a little straighter in his chair. It was rare for a human to enter his forest and his past experiences told him to be wary. The man's stern expression made him more concerned. He placed his hand on Mahiru's arm to stop him from approaching the human like he did with Misono.

"State your request." Kuro said, thinking that it was better to end the judgment quickly.

"My name is Baku. Recently, my wife died and—" He started and Kuro quickly interrupted him.

"If you want to visit her, she should be somewhere in this forest. Charon will explain the conditions of your visit but you'll have to find her by yourself. What you do after that is none of my concern." Kuro said. The living could visit departed souls living in the Forest of Ash but most were too afraid to do so.

"No, I came to ask you to revive her soul." Baku stepped forward with his request. A frown settled on Kuro's face and his eyes narrowed. It wasn't a rare request but it was troublesome. "I heard of how you spared Misono and Tetsu's soul and let them go free. Please do the same for my wife, Uraraka. I have prepared a substantial list of benefits for reviving her. Firstly, she is a brilliant inventor―"

"Can't deal. I'm not going to revive your wife." Kuro said in an even voice. "There were very… special circumstances in Misono's judgment. He was still alive and had Old Child's protection. Even if I wanted to, I can't revive Uraraka. The dead cannot leave this forest once they pass the bridge. Their soul will fade if they try to cross the bridge because their life is already forfeited."

"You're a god! You can bend the rules to help her, can't you? You are the debtor who is always paid. A little while we tarry up on earth. Then we are yours forever and forever. But I seek one who came to you too soon. I tried to bear my loss. I could not bear it! You gods have taken so much from us and ignore our prayers but can you listen to this plea?"

Mahiru could hear the grief in his voice and stood before Kuro could stop him. He picked up the long list Baku made and skimmed it. From Baku's description, Uraraka was a wonderful and talented woman. The love he had for his wife was also plain to see. He looked back to Kuro with sympathetic eyes and he could already hear his request. "She will help a lot of people with her inventions and Baku…"

"Mourning husbands are annoying to deal with." Kuro groaned. He knew that Mahiru would argue with him so he thought it was better to give in. He was sympathetic to their situation as well and thought over what he could do for the couple. "If you're able to lead her back to Earth, the sun will revive her. You need two things to keep her soul strong enough to cross the bridge: something that connects her to the living and a light to guide her."

"Thank you for this chance!" Baku said. "Our love connects us so I only need a guiding light. Where may I find one?"

"Fire. My husband can create a flame powerful enough to help you." Kuro answered. "But there is one conditions. She will follow behind you but you cannot turn around and look at her before you cross the bridge. If you do, her soul will disappear. That's the fate of any soul seen trying to leave my forest."

"Um, Kuro…" Mahiru spoke hesitantly after Charon left to summon Uraraka's soul.

"What? Didn't you want me to help the two."

"I do want to help them. But I don't know if I'll be able to maintain my fire the entire walk." Mahiru wrung his hands together in worry. If his fire went out before they crossed the bridge, Uraraka's soul would be lost forever. The thought made him shiver as he remembered the dreadful day he regretted. He didn't want to be the cause of any more misery. Kuro could see his hesitation and wrapped his hands around Mahiru's.

"You can do this, Mahiru." Kuro spoke softly. He kept one hand over his and cupped his cheek with the other. Gently, he lifted Mahiru's face and their eyes met. He wasn't the best with words but he wanted to take away the worry he saw in his eyes. "I wouldn't have suggested this if I didn't think you could do it. You've gotten better at controlling the fire but don't exert yourself. Just keep the flame small."

"You're right. I can do this if I keep things simple." Mahiru said with a confident smile. He was glad that he had Kuro's support and his words reassured him. If Kuro believed in him, he didn't want to disappoint him. He also knew that he would regret not doing anything more than failure. He took a deep breath before he created a small flame in his cupped hands. "This should be large enough to guide Uraraka's soul, right?"

"Yeah. Be careful, okay?" Kuro said and Mahiru nodded in return. He watched him leave with Baku following him. Mahiru knew the way to the bridge and he could control a small flame well enough but he still worried about him.

"Will that flame be sufficient to guide Uraraka? I can't hear her steps behind me. How can I know that she is behind us?" It was difficult to concentrate on maintaining the small flame with Baku peppering him with questions. Even though Baku was walking in front of him and he couldn't see his expression, Mahiru could hear the doubt in his voice.

"Kuro wouldn't lie to you. I'm certain that Uraraka is right behind us even if we can't hear her." Mahiru reassured him. His shoulders were still stiff so he knew that he didn't believe him. He only hoped that Baku would have faith in Kuro and not turn around. "He isn't the god they say he is. Kuro is kind and I trust him. Anyways, lying and tricking you would be troublesome."

Mahiru snickered when he imagined the deadpanned expression Kuro would have whenever he called something troublesome. He was a little taken aback at Baku's bitter voice. "I wouldn't put anything past the Olympians. They don't care for us at all. None of them protected Uraraka or my father or any of us from this storm no matter how much we pray."

"I understand… I really do. But you need to have faith in Kuro. Look, the bridge is in front of us now. Once we cross it, you'll see that he's telling you the truth." He said, urging him forward. Baku stepped onto the bridge but he stopped after a few steps. "What are you doing, Baku?"

"I just need to check." Baku whispered and he turned around too quickly for Mahiru to stop him. Mahiru's stomach dropped when a shadow ran past him and threw her arms around Baku. She was already fading away as she touched Baku's cheek and whispered farewell.

Then, she was gone.

Mahiru gaped as he looked at Baku's devastated expression. He didn't know what to say and they stared at each other without a word. As he tried to think of what to say, Baku marched forward and screamed.

"She's gone. I knew I shouldn't have trusted anything that man said. The Olympians don't care about humans and cause nothing but destruction. You simply can't trust the gods. This is why I hate them for taking everything from me!" Baku ranted and Mahiru's hands tightened in his robes. But he couldn't stop himself from screaming over Baku.

"Don't talk about Kuro like that! I know that you're hurting after losing Uraraka and I'm sorry for your loss but don't take out that anger on Kuro. He's a wonderful person and he does care about humans. He gave you this opportunity but you couldn't believe in his kindness. You were the one that turned around because you couldn't trust him."

"How dare you? You might be a god but you know nothing of loss. All gods are the same." Baku lifted his fist but Mahiru didn't move. He refused to step down or flinch when defending Kuro. Mahiru prepared himself for his punch and glared at Baku.

"I believe in Kuro and I won't let you speak poorly of him!" At that moment, someone stepped between them. Mahiru's gasp was drowned out by the loud crack Baku's punch caused. "Kuro?"

"I told you mourning husbands are annoying to deal with." Kuro said in an even voice as he rubbed his cheek where Baku punched him. The moment he saw Baku raise his hand, he rushed to protect Mahiru. His body moved before he could even process the scene. He clenched his jaw and he was glad that it wasn't broken. Then he spoke in a much lower voice. "If you're angry with me, then take it out on me. Don't you dare hurt Mahiru."

Mahiru had never heard him sound so threatening or angry before. He touched his arm lightly and the tension left Kuro's body almost instantly. He faced Baku and bowed to him slightly. "I'm sorry. I wished it could've ended differently. I can't imagine how you must be feeling right now but please don't fight here. If there's something, anything, we can do for you…"

"There's nothing you can do for me now that she's gone." Baku's voice was coloured with bitterness and grief. Mahiru was sympathetic to his pain but he didn't know what else he should say to him. He could only watch him leave. He sighed after he saw him disappear into the thick blizzard on the other side of the bridge. Mahiru turned back to Kuro and bit his lip.

"Does it hurt?" Mahiru asked as he touched his cheek. He shook his head in answer but it was already beginning to swell. So, he took his arm and pulled him towards the river. He lightly urged him towards a large rock and ordered, "Sit down and let me see it. Even if it doesn't hurt, we need to take care of it. I'll get something to help with the swelling."

"I'm an Olympian so you don't really need to fret like you're my mom. It doesn't even hurt that much." He protested. Kuro watched him take out a napkin and dip it into the water. After he wrung out the water, he created a small snow cloud to chill the wet napkin. Mahiru placed his hand on his shoulder to stop him from moving away and pressed the cold napkin to his cheek.

"Tell me if it stings." Mahiru instructed as he sat down next to him so he could be comfortable. His hand felt soothing on his cheek. With a blush, he said. "Thank you for protecting me. I'm sorry that you had to do that in the first place. I was the one that suggested we revive Uraraka's soul. If I didn't…"

"You don't need to look so guilty. It's okay." No one knew how painful and unavoidable death was more than Kuro. But seeing how optimistic Mahiru was and how he fought for a better future, he forgot that. He was stronger than most gods Kuro knew and he had to admire that. "I guess I should thank you too for defending me like you did. You didn't need to say all of those things."

"You heard all of that?" Mahiru suddenly felt flustered after Kuro nodded. He was being honest when he praised him but it was embarrassing that Kuro saw him lose his composure. He had to wonder how long he had been following them because he appeared so quickly. "If you were there, why didn't you step in sooner? You could've stopped Baku from turning around."

"I didn't think I needed to do anything." Kuro shrugged, as if his answer should've been obvious. "I trusted that you can handle a simple human like Baku. I only followed you in case you three were attacked or something. Knowing you, you would've tried to maintain that fire for Uraraka's sake rather than use it to protect yourself."

"You're probably right." He laughed at himself. The fact that Kuro believed in him so much made him happier than he thought it would. Mahiru gently stroked his cheek and he leaned into his hand. He recalled the things Baku said about Kuro but he couldn't see a hint of truth in his words looking into his kind eyes. He wondered how long people wrongly believed the worst of him.

"Kuro, I meant what I said back there. You're a great person. Don't let what Baku said get to you. I believe in you." Mahiru took the napkin from his cheek and he was glad to see that the swelling had lessened. He knew that Kuro was a god and healed quickly but he still found himself worrying about him.

"Where did that come from? I'm used to people saying things like that so you don't need to go out of your way to defend me." Kuro said but his cheeks were a little red. Even if Mahiru words came from kindness and sympathy, he knew they were honest. He had become accustomed to people's distrust and disgust that he didn't know how to react to his words. He turned away and said sarcastically. "The next thing you know, you'll try to kiss me better."

"Stop being such a child. Here," Mahiru leaned forward and kissed his cheek. Both of their faces were burning when Mahiru pulled away and stood. He ran to Black Cat and climbed onto its back. "Let's head home. We need to judge a few more souls and then go on that boat ride you promised me."

"You really like dragging me about, don't you?" Kuro walked to his side.

Kuro watched Mahiru from the corner of his eyes as he guided the rowboat down the river. He had a soft smile on his lips as he gazed at the forest. He set aside the oar and sat next to Mahiru. The river had a steady current so he didn't need to steer the boat. "If we're about to crash, wake me up."

"You're going to sleep now? You didn't tell me where our destination is so we might pass it while you're sleeping." Mahiru pointed out and Kuro groaned. He petted Black Cat between them and brushed off Mahiru's concern.

"I really didn't think of a destination for us. I was just planning to float down the river until you said you wanted to go home. You said that you wanted to see the forest and that's what we're doing right now." Kuro told him and Mahiru looked far from happy with his answer. "The Forest of Ash isn't known for beautiful attractions."

"You need to give your forest more credit." He stood and walked to the bow. He leaned forward haphazardly so he could scan the forest ahead of them. The boat swayed a little so Kuro stood behind him and placed his hand on his hip to keep him from falling off the boat. Something caught Mahiru's eyes and he pointed to a large tree. "Take me there."

"I will after you sit down. I don't want to fish you out of the river more than once." Kuro took his hand off his hip but he held his hand to help him keep his balance. After Mahiru sat down again, he steered the boat towards the tree. He wondered if Mahiru chose the tree at random because nothing about it seem special. But Mahiru excitedly walked towards it once he docked the boat.

"So, they're pomegranates." Mahiru mumbled as he stopped in front of the tree. It had to be the tallest trees he had ever seen and its branches were filled with fruit. From a distance, the pomegranates looked like rubies against the blue leaves and Mahiru was curious about the tree. He tried to pick one of the pomegranates but the branches were too high for him to reach.

"What are you doing, Mahiru?"

"What does it look like? I'm climbing." He answered him as he placed his feet on a gnarl and climbed up the tree. Black Cat transformed into a crow and followed him. Mahiru settled himself on a sturdy branch and grinned down at Kuro. He had a worried expression as he tilted his head. "Aren't you going to join me up here?"

"You're going to break your neck if you fall." Kuro pointed out. The inviting smile Mahiru had prompted him to follow him up the tree.

Mahiru could see that his arms were shaking a little as he held onto the tree trunk. Even when he was safe and sitting on the branch next to him, he still looked nervous. Kuro was almost like a small cat trapped in a tree. Mahiru had to smile because he was able to see a new side to him. He moved closer to him and reassured him.

"You don't have to look so scared Kuro. If you fall, I'll catch you so there's nothing for you to worry about." He created a large cloud beneath them. He appeared more relaxed and Mahiru was glad that he could help him. "You didn't need to join me up here if you weren't comfortable climbing. Didn't you climb trees like this when you were younger?"

"No," Kuro answered after a pause. He could see the confusion on Mahiru's face, so he explained. "I'm not afraid of heights but I'm not used to doing things like this. I can't remember the last time I climbed a tree. Even when I was just a kid, I was busy with my duties so I didn't have time to just play. Death doesn't take a break after all."

"Then we need to do this more often." Mahiru decided. He took a pomegranate and cut it open with a small knife. He picked a few of the seeds and held them out to Black Cat. The crow eagerly ate out of Mahiru hand and Kuro smiled at the two. "Pomegranates tree aren't this tall usually. We can see the bridge and your throne room from here."

"This is the first time I've seen my own forest from this angle." Kuro said.

"It's beautiful. I've never seen anything like your forest on Earth." He turned his gaze to Kuro. "You lived in this forest for so long that you probably became accustomed to it."

From the corner of his eyes, Kuro saw Mahiru carelessly lift a pomegranate seed to his lips. He instinctively hit the fruit out of his hands and immediately regretted it when Mahiru's eyes widened. A silence came between them for a moment and neither of them knew what to say.

Kuro was the first to speak. "I already told you that you can't eat food grown in the Forest of Ash. You'll be trapped here with me if you do. How can you help humans with your fire if you can't leave this forest?"

"I guess it slipped my mind." Mahiru whispered and looked down at the pomegranate on the ground. He was having so much fun with Kuro that he forgot the dangers within the forest. "Thank you, Kuro. All this work we're doing would be pointless over such a silly mistake. I'll be more careful."

"It's okay, you didn't do anything wrong. I didn't hurt you, did I?" Kuro took his hand to make sure that he hadn't bruised him in his haste. "What are you going to do out there without me? I'm pretty sure you'll run into a lot of danger without thinking things through. Even after you learn to control fire, make sure not to bite off more than you can chew."

"Kuro, why are you talking like we'll never see each other again after I leave the forest. I'm going to come back after I gift fire to the humans." Mahiru tilted his head at him in confusion. He could see the shock in Kuro's eyes. "We're married and this forest is my home now so, thinking simply, I'm going to return to your side. Anyways, your siblings would have a lot of questions if I just disappear."

"... Oh," Kuro didn't know what else to say. He was certain that Mahiru would leave his forest the first moment he could. His answer made him happy and confused at the same time. He scratched his cheek and said softly, "If you left… I would… Black Cat would really miss you!"

"... Will he be the only one?" Mahiru asked and he could feel his heart racing as he waited for his answer. He was disappointed when Kuro only gave him silence. What did he want Kuro to answer with? He would've liked him to say that he would miss him too but he was reminded that their marriage was merely a farce. To distract himself from his feelings, he petted Black Cat. "I would miss you two after I leave."

"How long do you think it would take to give fire to each country?" Kuro asked.

"Maybe eight months." Mahiru bit his lip. It was strange but thinking about leaving Kuro made him feel lonely despite how he was right next to him. Then a thought came to him and he turned to him with a bright smile. "How about you come with me? You're showing me this beautiful forest so I can repay you by showing you Earth."

"I don't know if I can go with you. Death doesn't take an eight month break." Kuro pointed out. He looked beyond the bridge to the raging storm. Tsubaki wasn't strong enough to force the storm into the Forest of Ash but Kuro was always aware of its presence. It was a constant reminder of the choice he made. Thinking of his brother, he worried about Mahiru because Tsubaki might target him once he learned that they were married.

"I can take my work with me." Kuro started slowly but Mahiru instantly looked at him with eager eyes. "I'll leave a shadow behind to hand out my judgments for me. It takes a lot of energy to maintain a shadow copy so don't yell at me if I'm more sluggish than usual during the trip. Black Cat can take us wherever you want."

"You can transform into anything, can't you? You're pretty special," Mahiru praised and it nodded proudly. Black Cat wanted to be praised more and transformed into a bear. The extra weight caused the branch to break. They all began to panic and Mahiru instinctively clung onto Kuro. He wrapped his arms around him in return and tried to protect Mahiru from the fall.

Neither of them were hurt because they fell onto the cloud he laid below them. Kuro groaned as he sat up to check that Mahiru wasn't hurt. "You okay?"

"I'm fine." Mahiru smiled up at him. He blushed when he realized that he was sitting on Kuro's lap. He rushed to move off his lap but he stumbled a little and ended up falling onto his back. Kuro leaned over him with an exasperated expression. He picked a fluorescent leaf from his brown hair and noticed that his cheeks are red.

"Are you getting sick? You did have to use your fire a lot today." He gently placed his hand on his forehead to check his temperature. Mahiru's heart jumped at his simple touch but Kuro didn't seem to think anything of it. "Maybe we should take a break tomorrow if you're tired."

"You just want an excuse to sleep in tomorrow." Mahiru rolled his eyes and stood. "We should clean up this branch and head home. It's getting late."

Pretty long chapter this time. I was supposed to post this awhile ago but then my computer went to shit and I lost everything (my hard drive crashed and I need it replaced). Basically had to rewrite everything).

#servamp #kuromahi #lawlicht #mahiru shirota #licht jekylland todoroki #servamp kuro #servamp hyde #fanfiction #the forest of ash

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pocket-luv101 · 8 years ago

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An Angel’s Song

Characters: Hyde, Licht, Mahiru Ships: LawLicht Summary: Licht was far from a conventional guardian angel. But he must save a human’s soul or lose his piano. Hyde was drowning in grief and never thought he would find another love or muse. But Licht’s light gave him hope and chased away the demons in his heart.

Ch. 1 // Ch. 2 // Ch. 3 //

“Licht Jekylland Todorki, you are on trial for disobeying our Lord’s word. You were to wait for the council to decide the fates of the demons yet you took it upon yourself to purify them. Do you have anything to say for yourself?” The angel’s voice was even but there was a hard edge to it. Licht wasn’t intimidated by it and glared at the angel.

“I don’t need a defense because I was right to hunt down those demons and kill them. They killed countless angels and more would’ve died while you took your time on your council meetings and arguments.” Licht refused to feel guilty for his actions. He didn’t care what punishment the council would give him because he knew that it would be less painful than the regret of doing nothing.

Mahiru watched his friend with a mixture of admiration and worry. While he admired Licht’s dedication to his ideals, he also knew that the council would only tolerate his defiance for so long. Licht was a skilled and powerful warrior so he knew that they wouldn’t kill him as punishment but Mahiru still worried over their decision.

“We cannot risk angering the Demon King any further and he is demanding a trade for the lives you took. We would like to resolve this without violence.” One spoke and Mahiru dearly hoped they didn’t ask for Licht’s life. When they told him what the Demon King demanded, Mahiru was relieved. Licht was furious.

“They want your piano.”

“How dare you suggest I give them my piano?” Licht screamed and Mahiru rushed forward to hold him back before he could attack a council man. “I’ll fucking break his fingers if he dares to touch my piano. If any of you try to take it, I’ll do the same to you!”

“Licht, please calm down!” Mahiru knew how important his piano was to Licht but he didn’t think that it was worth losing his life. “Just calm down and let me deal with this!”

It was obvious that he wouldn’t be able to convince Licht to part with his piano so he tried to appeal to the council. He stood in front of them and bowed. “Please don’t take his piano. Taking it won’t solve anything or teach Licht patience. I believe that I know a better punishment for him.”

“And what would you suggest?” One asked.

“We make him a guardian angel.” Mahiru declared and everyone in the room turned to him. Guardian angels were tasked with guiding and protecting a human on the edge of turning into a demon. The role required patience and a kind understanding that they didn’t believe Licht had. Mahiru knew that it would be difficult to convince the council but tried.

“I’m having trouble with a certain human and I believe that Licht would be a better guardian for him. Thinking simply, Licht might learn a lot from becoming a guardian angel and his piano will help lull the hurt of a human. And he won’t be able to hunt demons if he’s in the Human Realm so we won’t risk angering the Demon King further.”

“And how do we pacify the King’s current anger?”

“I’ll negotiate another trade.” Mahiru volunteered and the council began to whisper among themselves. While he appeared to be a simple angel, he was a talented guardian and his words could sway conversations. He hoped that it would be enough to help Licht.

“Mahiru, what are you doing?” Licht pulled him a side and whispered harshly. He wasn’t trained to be a guardian and he never interacted with a human before.

“I’m trying to save your life.” Mahiru told him harshly. It was rare for Mahiru to be so stern and Licht looked down at the ground while he went on. “Right now, we don’t have much of a choice if you want to keep your piano. Do you know the destruction the King can create with it? So, please, put aside your pride for once and try not to anger the council further.”

“Licht Jekylland Todorki, we have decided your fate.” The angel leading the council stood. “You will be assigned to purify the demon within the human under Mahiru’s watch. But you must do so within a month and without using violence. If you fail to do so before the month is over and if Mahiru fails to sway the demon king, your piano will be forfeited.”

“An angel such as I will be able to cleanse any demon with little time and effort. Tell me the name of the human.” Licht said confidently despite his earlier reservation of becoming a guardian.

“Hyde, lets go out to dinner! I’ll pay!” World End screamed as he persistently knocked on the door but his brother refused to open it. A part of him wanted to break down the door and drag him out of his grief but another part of him knew that he couldn’t do anything but wait for Hyde.

“He’s not going to come out tonight either?” Kuro walked into the hallway with a takeout bag. Hyde had locked himself inside his room for days now but Kuro made sure to bring him something to eat. While everyone in their family wanted to help him, none of them knew how. He placed the bag on the doorknob before knocking. “I brought dinner but you’re still free to come down to eat.”

“I’m not hungry.” Hyde’s voice was small but it was more than he had given them for days so Kuro was relieved. “I’m busy with my next play so don’t worry about me.”

“Alright.” Kuro knew that Hyde was lying but didn’t say anything. “Hyde, I know this is tough on you but we’re here for you. If you want to talk to us about it or cry, we won’t judge you.”

“I said I was okay so leave me alone! I can’t write when you’re constantly talking and distracting me!” Hyde screamed and Kuro winced slightly. But the angry screams were better than the somber silence to them. “I’m sorry. Just go on and eat without me. Thanks for bringing food, I’ll eat it.”

Inside the room, Hyde listened to his brothers’ footsteps leave before he forced himself out of his bed. It was noon but the drawn curtains blocked the light. He couldn’t stand the sight of the sunlight because it reminded him of her bright, golden hair. Everything brought back memories of her and he didn’t want to leave his bed and be reminded of everything he lost.

Hyde couldn’t sense his brothers on the other side of the door and opened it cautiously. A bag full of ham and cheese sandwiches hung on his door and he smiled to himself. They were his favourite but it was the small gesture of Kuro’s kindness that made him smile. His family clearly cared and worried for him so Hyde wondered if he was being selfish.

Something painful clutched at his heart and he closed the door as he returned to his desk. He went through the motion of eating the sandwiches without tasting them. Hyde pulled his knees to his chest and tried to console himself but failed miserably. How did one work past their grief? He read so many books and articles but he couldn’t rid himself of it.

“What would better men do with their grief? Give sorrow words. The grief that does not speak; whispers the o'erfraught heart and bids it break.” Hyde quoted, hoping that it would help him but it all sounded hopeless and pointless to him. What did it matter? She was gone, dead and gone, as all humans were destined to be. “Sweet Ophelia, what am I going to do without you?”

Hyde looked at the scripts littering his desk. He was a playwright but hadn’t been able to open his laptop and write since his muse left him. How could he write without her? How could he live without her? He pushed aside the sandwiches and paper so he could rest his head on his desk. He closed his eyes and could almost hear her soft voice that sounded like piano notes.

A piano? Hyde sat up when he realized that the sound wasn’t a figment of his imagination. No one he knew could play the piano and his family didn’t own one. He looked around the room but he was alone. Did his grief finally turn to madness? When he stood, he noticed a feather on the ground. Hyde picked it up and turned it between his fingers. “What the hell?”

“Die you demon!” Hyde felt someone kick his back and he went flying forward. He caught himself on the ground and turned sharply to see a man standing before him. At first, Hyde was shocked and didn’t know how to react. Firstly, the man appeared suddenly and without warning. Secondly, he had large white wings. Despite his angelic appearance, his eyes sent him a dark glare.

“Who the hell are you?” Hyde cautiously stood and tried to find a weapon he could use. His mind was racing, trying to think of how the man could enter his room.

“I’m an angel and I’m going to purify the demon within you.” He declared and raised his hand. Piano keys appeared before him and Hyde stiffened when he began to play. Feathers began to swarm around him in time to the song and Hyde felt as if the song could touch his soul. When he touched his cheek, he realized that he was crying and memories began to surface with those tears.

“Stop!” Hyde screamed and rushed forward. He punched the man and sent him stumbling back. The weight and memories lessened and Hyde felt relieved for a moment. Then the man regained his footing and glared at him. He didn’t know why but he could feel a threatening power beneath the man’s scowl. But Hyde found himself laughing slightly.

“Well, if my madness personified my grief as you, I have free reign to beat the crap out of you. Come at me, Angel Cakes.” Hyde picked up a rapier. It was a prop for one of his plays but it could still hurt him. He waved it threateningly at him. “I’ll pluck those wings of yours so you’ll never bother me again.”

“How dare you threaten an angel’s wings?” The man easily fell for his taunts and flew forward to attack him. Hyde dodged his attack and pulled back his rapier to stab him. The angel turned in the air and was about to kick him again. But neither were hurt when someone appeared between them and blocked their attacks.

“What are you doing, showing yourself to a human?” The second stranger screamed and Hyde was shocked that the angel stepped back as he was being scolded. “The council said you can’t use force to kill the demon within him! What kind of guardian angel fights with their human? We’re supposed to help them by drawing out the light within them to purify the demon naturally. I explained this to you already.”

“Wait, you’re my guardian angel?” Hyde couldn’t make any sense of their conversation but tried to.

“Unfortunately,” The dark haired man huffed. “I’m Licht Jekylland Todorki and I am your guardian angel.”

I was working on this as a side project but I really wanted to get this out because I made that list of AUs.

#servamp #licht jekylland todoroki #servamp hyde #lawlicht #mahiru shirota #Fanfiction #had to make mahiru an angel too #someone needs to control licht

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