#K clans

[darth-sonny]

never forget

[lolliudo]

glory to master kohga!

[bandousama]

[itsuki-minamy]

"K - RETURN OF KINGS" (Novel)

EPILOGUE: THREE PEOPLE

* List of Chapters

Translation: Naru-kun Raws: Ridia

Looking back, the incident that turned all humans into supernatural beings was nothing more than a fleeting dream. Although the disaster affected not only Japan but also other countries, human damage was kept to a minimum thanks to the measures taken by "Tokijikuin". Because it was all over in just a few hours, many people didn't notice anything until it was all over.

The world is still in uproar. The media is strongly demanding an investigation into truth and accountability. Now that the existence of supernatural powers has become public knowledge, it is only a matter of time before the fact that the government has covered it up for more than 70 years after the war comes to light.

However, we will have to wait longer for that to happen.

For supernatural beings, normal life was returning. Every day was like any other: wake up, eat, shower, go to work.

However, the frequency of "work" has increased slightly.

Munakata was waiting for Fushimi when he returned to his base.

He probably didn't go to the front door to greet him. By chance they met. Still, he seemed to understand Fushimi's mission, he turned on his heel and spoke.

"Please, inform me."

Fushimi began to follow him, his lips curled.

"...After receiving a report that a Strain and "Homura" were fighting in Shizume, three members of the Special Forces rushed to the scene. They safely secured the two Strain who had already begun to escape and recently returned to base."

"Hm."

Munakata took a deep breath and shook his head.

"Although 10 days have passed since the destruction of the "Slate", it seems that people's supernatural powers have not completely disappeared. Even when the power of Hisui Nagare, who was connected to the "Slate", and Isana Yashiro, who caused the burst of royal power, quickly disappeared..."

"It is true that it is gradually weakening."

"Yes. Actually, the "Sword of Damocles" has disappeared and the "King" can no longer deploy the Sanctum. However, in that incident, people around the world have temporarily acquired supernatural abilities. Most of them have lost their power, but I'm sure there are still plenty of them. Especially here in Tokyo, where the "Slate" was located."

Fushimi grumbled in a displeased tone.

''Will our work continue for the moment?''

"It still seems so."

Fushimi stared at Munakata's back as he responded.

Not yet. This means that there will come a time when the meaning of Scepter 4's existence will be questioned.

Munakata is losing his power as ''King''. For him, the "Sword of Damocles" was falling apart, so that could be considered a blessing in disguise.

However, at the same time, it was a problem that would affect the survival of the clan known as ''Scepter 4''. Does it still make any sense to serve the "King" who has lost his power? When all supernatural beings, including themselves, lose their supernatural abilities due to the disappearance of the "Slate", is there really any point in keeping "Scepter 4"?

Fushimi is not the only one who has that doubt. He's sure many members of the clan and Special Forces think the same, even if they don't say it out loud.

However, Munakata did not respond to his subordinate's questions.

Does he still not have an answer or does he believe that every person has no choice but to find an answer to that question?

When he thought about that, his PDA sounded.

"Excuse me."

Fushimi reflexively took the PDA and pressed the call button.

It was a failure. What came out of the telephone port was a vulgar and loud voice.

"You bastard, stupid monkey! Why are you stealing from us? That Strain was "Homura's" prey..."

Fushimi hung up the call without saying a word.

Munakata stood still. His face finally turned towards him. Seeing the slight smile on his lips, Fushimi looked away and said again.

"My apologies."

Munakata said jokingly.

"Didn't you say that the Stain had been captured without "incident"?"

"Yes, it's just the extras throwing a tantrum."

Fushimi responded without hesitation, and Munakata simply laughed and looked forward.

Awashima was approaching from the other side of the hallway. When she stopped in front of Munakata and saluted, she said in a crisp tone...

"Captain. The Prime Minister has requested a meeting. He would like to discuss measures to counter the Strains abroad. Do you accept the request?"

"Okay. Let's go right away."

Nodding, Munakata quickened his pace with Awashima in tow.

Fushimi stopped and stared at his back. From now on, it's not his territory. He couldn't do politics or negotiate because he was tired.

Fushimi thought as he watched Munakata walk away into the distance.

Maybe Munakata has all the answers. What will happen to the world in which supernatural powers have been revealed? How will the clan that has lost its supernatural powers change from now on? Anticipate and then react. Because that's Reisi Munakata.

And Fushimi too.

The PDA called again. This time, he made sure to check the person before answering. Akiyama's calm voice sounded.

"Fushimi-san, I have another report. There was a robbery at the Takeido Ekimae bank. I think it was due to a Strain."

Fushimi snorted and responded.

"Here Fushimi, I understand. I'll be on my way immediately. Please prepare a transport vehicle."

Then, he too began to walk quickly.

Fushimi is also nothing more than Fushimi Saruhiko. Being a supernatural being is just one of the factors of him. Even if he loses his supernatural powers or the world changes, Fushimi will be Fushimi.

Therefore, what he has to do remains the same.

He will just do his job.

+++++++++++

Kusanagi finished polishing the glass.

He placed a glass in front of him and two glasses on the other side of the counter, in front of the stool. After placing them carefully, Kusanagi turned on the lamp.

It was left by someone who frequented that store a long time ago. He was a troublesome guy who engaged in various hobbies, but he left the things he collected for those purposes in the store. The reason Kusanagi knows how to use a lamp is because that person forced him to learn.

The glasses gave off a mysterious glow due to the flickering flames on the counter.

Looking at that with half-closed eyes, Kusanagi opened the bottle and poured the amber liquid into the glass.

A voice echoed in the silent bar.

"Wow, it smells good."

Totsuka was sitting on a stool, looking innocently at the glass with his usual kind expression on his face.

Next to him, Suoh lifted his glass and brought it to his mouth.

"...Not bad."

Totsuka held the glass with both hands, but didn't drink it, just enjoyed the aroma. He asked, looking at Kusanagi with a big smile.

"But is it okay, Kusanagi-san? This is an important bottle, right?"

"...Well, once in a while, why not?"

Yes. Sometimes something like that would be nice.

Suoh snorted. He put a cigarette in his mouth and tried to light it, but the lighter didn't light. Kusanagi shrugged, lit the Zippo, and handed it to him. Suoh looked at Kusanagi and then held the tip of his cigarette to the light of the Zippo.

The tip of the cigarette burned red hot and the exhaled white smoke floated in the light of the lamp.

Totsuka rested his chin on the counter and looked at him amused.

Kusanagi also slowly raised his glass, squinting behind his sunglasses. At this moment, the door of the bar opened with the loud sound of the doorbell.

"Damn...! They just stole my prey!"

"Yata-san! There will be another chance! Next time, let's make the guys in blue scream!"

Yata, Kamamoto and the rest of "Homura" entered the bar while chatting loudly among themselves.

Kusanagi blinked as if he had just woken up and looked at them. As they talked among themselves, they began to take positions at the desired locations.

There was no one sitting on the stool across the counter from Kusanagi.

Still holding the glass, Kusanagi stared at the empty stool.

"Izumo."

Kusanagi looked towards where that voice came from.

Anna was there. She was sitting on a stool, silently looking at the glass that was still there.

Her crimson eyes turned towards Kusanagi.

Kusanagi placed his cigarette in the ashtray and smiled silently.

"...Welcome."

+++++++++++

From the rooftop of the building, Mishakuji Yukari looked into a large hole.

The hole, which was also called Yomito Crossing or Yomito Gate, was surrounded by a yellow cordon and sparsely patrolled by police. They seemed to be quite distracted, some were holding back their yawns, others were simply staring blankly, and no one noticed the presence of the suspicious person standing on the rooftop, Mishakuji.

That marked the end of everything.

That place has little meaning to them anymore. "Jungle" was disbanded and most of the clan members gave up their power or hid in the world as people with clanless powers. The Green Clan no longer exists anywhere in the world. What's there is just a hole, a tombstone for those who once tried to bring down the world.

That's why Mishakuji holds a bouquet of flowers in his hands.

"...Iwa-san. Narare-chan. Did you have fun?"

Mishakuji muttered that and threw away the bouquet.

As the petals were scattered, the bouquet fell to the bottom of the tombstone as if it were sucked.

"Nagare... Iwa-san..."

Kotosaka on his shoulder shouted in a muffled voice. Birds cannot shed tears. Instead, he lowered his voice, perhaps as a tribute to his closest friends.

As if he was wiping away his tears, Mishakuji stroked his feathers with his fingertips.

Then he slowly turned on his heel. He called out to him as he passed the boy who was standing stunned.

"Come on?"

Sukuna didn't answer anything. He bit his lip, frowned and looked as if he was desperately suppressing something.

Mishakuji pretended not to see it.

Suddenly, he remembered something from the past. Mishakuji also lost something important in his childhood. His family, his first teacher. Everything was taken away by irresistible violence.

At least, that's not the case with the deaths of Nagare and Iwafune. They lived, fought and died for their desires. Although there may be sadness and mourning, there should be no regrets.

(I had fun. Iwa-sa, Nagare-chan.)

In place of the dead who did not give an answer, Mishakuji walked forward, giving his own answer.

Sukuna also wiped his eyes roughly with his sleeve and began to follow Mishakuji. He looked back only from time to time, looking at the hole with a trace of regret in his eyes, but then he turned forward and began to walk with difficulty.

+++++++++++

"Wait, wait, Wagahai-chan, your skirt is riding up! It's riding up!"

"Nya?"

Kukuri quickly grabbed Neko's shoulders as she jumped as if she were dancing. She quickly pulled up her skirt, which had gotten caught in her bag and rolled up. As Neko blinked, Kukuri spoke in a tone similar to that of a mother teaching a small child.

"You know, Wagahai-chan. Your uniform skirt tends to ride up easily, so you shouldn't move too vigorously, okay?"

"Mmm... I'm very tight..."

Neko pouted in dissatisfaction, but obediently allowed Kukuri to do whatever she wanted. She was the one who said that she wanted to join the school, and if that was the case, she had to listen to her teacher, Kukuri, because Kuro had told her so.

"Yes, this is good!"

After properly adjusting her clothes, Kukuri looked at Neko seriously.

"Wow, I never expected Wagahai-chan to move here. And at a time like this!"

"Hehehe~. Nice to see you! Kukuri!"

"Likewise~. Ah, that's right. The teacher who transferred with you. I heard that he is a relative of Wagahai-chan?"

Neko laughed mischievously.

"Yes. That's what we decided to do!"

"Did they decide?"

Kukuri tilted her head in confusion at the strange way she said it. It was largely due to Neko's power that she was able to do that. However, she had no intention of telling Kukuri that, at least not until her life had completely calmed down.

"Well, anyway, he is a very nice teacher. It seems like everyone in my class already calls him by the nickname "German Sensei"."

After saying that, Kukuri suddenly looked up at the sky as if she remembered something.

"But... I feel like I've met him somewhere before."

Neko laughed again at that reaction, but she didn't say anything.

A delicious smell tickled Neko's nose as she ran towards the bedroom.

"I'm home! I'm hungry!"

A calm response came from the back of the kitchen at Neko's voice full of desire.

"It's done. Sit down."

"Hurrah!"

Raising her arms and expressing her joy, Neko jumped into the dining room.

In the chabudai there is white rice, miso soup, pickled vegetables and grilled fish. Those are some of her favorite dishes that she sees all the time.

Neko pinched the sleeves of her uniform and showed off a little at the person sitting there.

"How I look? What do you think of my uniform?"

She chuckled, Kuro walked out of the kitchen and opened his mouth in shock.

"You heard that in the morning too."

"I want to hear it over and over again! What do you think?"

He looked at Neko calmly and nodded slowly.

"Looks good."

Neko laughed as if tickled. No matter how many times she heard it, she was still happy. Even more than his praise for her uniform, the fact that he was there made her happier than anything else.

Isana Yashiro.

Or Adolf K. Weismann.

That wasn't the Shiro that Neko knew. He is a young man of exotic appearance, with silver hair and a white face. It is natural that there are no traces of the Shiro from before, and this is the "real" Shiro.

She doesn't really understand the detailed reasoning. However, either one was fine for Neko.

Even if his appearance has changed. Shiro is, after all, Neko's Shiro.

Kuro took off his apron and sat across from Shiro. Neko also sat between the two of them, waiting for a signal.

"Well..."

Kuro nodded and the three joined their hands and spoke in unison.

"Itadakimasu."

Neko laughed out loud at the steaming white rice, miso soup, and grilled fish.

It is not the pleasure of eating. Of course, that's one thing, but the fact that there were two people on each side of the chabudai she was placed on filled her with immense joy.

If she reaches out, she can touch them. If she smiles at them, they will smile back. There are two people she loves within that short distance.

That alone made her happy. Everything she needed was prepared on that small table. Happiness with a touch of warmth. It was what Neko had been looking for.

Surrounded by her family, Neko, Ameno Miyabi is happy.

[incorrectkprojectquotes]

Fushimi: Misaki, do you remember when we agreed we were better off as friends?

Yata, naked in Fushimi's bed: No. I absolutely don't.

Fushimi, already taking off his clothes: Fuck, me neither.

[electronicwitchcollection]

Byakuya Kuchiki one shot

had a request for a Byakuya one shot. I can only apologise for how bloody long it is 😂

_______________________________

"Hi! Could I pleas request angst and fluff with byakuya? Maybe a lil smut ? the reader has lost her SO to a hollow attack and he comforts her? Thank you!!"

Prompt; The pain doesn't go away, does it?

No

__________________________________

Darkeness had settled over the Seireitei, bringing the crisp cool air of an autumn night with it. You sat on the cold, dewy grass, knees pulled up to your chest. Arms wrapped around them in comfort, you had propped your chin on top of your knee, blindly staring out to the rippling surface of the inky pond.

It had been three weeks since your husband, your best friend, soul mate had died. Three weeks ago you received the heart shattering news that your partner had died while on duty. He had been sent to one of the lower districts to cleanse the hollow reeking havoc there.

The mission had started easily enough, you were informed by your late husbands squad mate. They had located the hollow, dispatched it without fault. On their return home, however, another hollow had appeared, trying to make a meal out of some Rukongai kids. You didn't need to be told that your husband was the first one to react. Literally throwing his body inbetween the children and the hollows bloodthirsty teeth. Of course he did.

Tears stung your eyes at the mental imagery, shaking your head defiantly you willed away the thought. You didn't want that image of your husband. That of his last breath. You wanted the lopsided grin he always wore. His kind yet mischievous eyes shining back at you. His loud obnoxious laugh.

That's why you found yourself here. Why you've found yourself here every night since that awful day. Every night you would climb into your too big, cold bed, the empty space where your husband would never again lay next to you, holding you close, a stark reminder that he was gone. Really, truly gone. 

Sleep cruelly availed you each night, plagued with the images of your husbands demise. So each night you wandered the Seireitei absentmindedly, always seeming to end up here. The pond in the 6th squads Baracks. It always has been a beautiful place. Serene and calming.

It's where you first met your husband. He had spotted you walking across the grass, delivering paperwork from your own captain. In an effort to gain your attention, he had loudly called you over, waving manically. You had made your way over, interested in what he wanted. His flailing about was amusing, his boyish good looks didn't hurt either. He later told you that he was shocked it had worked, hence why he began fisting his friends clothing, desperately shaking him, asking what he should do next. Which resulted in his friend pushing him into the pond.

Your lips curled up at the memory of him spluttering and coughing when he resurfaced. He had asked you for a date that very same night, you had been inseparable ever since. This pond became a special place for the both of you. It's where you had met. Taken romantic walks. Where you had your first kiss. The place he asked you to be his wife.

You felt close to him here, could almost feel his arms wrap them selves around you, almost hear his laugh in the wind blowing through the trees. Closing your eyes tightly, you breathed in deep. Trying to catch hold of that phantom feeling, desperately trying to hold on to that ghostly caress. A particularly strong gust of wind snapped your eyes open, forcing you out of your fantasy.

A stray tear escaped your eye, falling down your cheek. The trail quickly became cold with the wind blowing against your skin

"I miss you "  you whisper out into the night, the pond becoming blurry in your vision as fresh tears replaced those that had fallen.

"LN-san?"

Startled by the deep voice you sprang to your feet, whipping around to see who had found you. Wiping at your eyes, you saw the serene face of your husbands captain.

"Captain Kuchiki" your voice broke with emotion. Clearing your throat you tried again "sir, my apologies, I'll just leave..."

Captain Kutchiki held up a hand, silencing you as he came to a stop next to you, looking out at his pond

"your apologies are not needed. You do not need to leave" that surprised you. The captain was usually quite protective over his pond, it had taken your husband weeks to convince his captain to let him propose to you here. You wrapped your arms around you, shielding you from the wind and the uneasy feeling deep in your stomach. You couldn't remember ever speaking to the Captain, how he knew your name was a mystery "it's a beautiful place to find some peace" 

You nod numbly in agreement, unsure how to respond to that. You had no idea how to converse with the noble. He is possibly one of the most famous captains in the gotei 13. Head of the noble Kutchiki clan. Your husband had told you that his Captain suffered no fools, the man oozed authority and arrogance. Not someone you would normally keep the company of. The Captain seemed the complete opposite of your playful, loving husband

"I wish to offer my condolences" the Captain broke the silence, still staring out into the water. You tilted your head, acknowledging his words. His silky black hair danced behind him as the wind picked up. "Your husband was an excellent shinigami, His presence is sorely missed within my division" 

"thank you" you smile softly, thumbing away a stray tear "it's comforting to hear I'm not the only one missing him "

With a curt nod the captain made his leave as quickly as he had appeared, Captains coat billowing behind him. You watched as he gracefully strode across the grassy landscape until the dark of night swallowed him up.

You didn't know then that that wouldn't be the last encounter you had with Captain Kutchiki at the pond.

——————————————————

Three months. Three long, painfully lonely months had passed since your husbands death. The aching grip of sorrow clenching at your heart hadn't eased in those few months. You cried less now, in public at least. You managed to get through your daily duties, assure your concerned Captain and colleagues that you were doing well. A prefect mask. As soon as you returned home though, the mask slipped and the pain returned. Your home no longer smelled like him.

There were no messily thrown uniforms on the bedroom floor. No cupboard doors left partly open ready to bang your head if you didn't notice in time. Your home was clean and everything in its place. it no longer felt like home. Its was cold and empty. It was so lonely. Night time was still the worst. Alone with your thoughts, every inch of your home screaming out at the lack of his presence .

After a long day of pretending, at night you no longer had the strength to ward off the emotions waiting to consume you. You missed him. Deep in your stomach you earned for him. Your heart felt as though every beat was a struggle. It felt broken. You had been managing to get some sleep. It was never as peaceful as it once was, but some nights you managed a full night. Tonight was not one of them

Today was your husbands birthday.

Birthdays between you were spent at home. Nothing lavish or over the top. Neither of you were the type. You'd make it special for eachother by ordering your favourite take away, snuggled up on the sofa together. Drinking your favourite sake you would reminisce your life together. At the end the night you joined together in a passionate love making, full of kissing and sweet confessions of love.

Which is why tonight you find yourself back at the pond, sat in the grass gazing up at the sky, you just couldn't bare to lay alone in your bed. The sky was clear tonight, millions of stars offered their comforting glow. You had wondered if one of them was your husband. He would be the brightest one, twinkling brightly as he watched over you.

A rustle of clothing had you turning back, eyes falling on Captain Kutchiki, his hand already up to stop you from rising. When he came to a stop , a little to your right, you returned your gaze up to the sky

"the stars are exceptionally bright tonight" the captain noted, not sounding as casual as he had probably intended.

"the moon too"  your voice sounded emotional to your own ears. Apparently there was no putting that mask back on tonight

"Why is it, that this is the place you keep coming back too?" Captain Kuchiki asked, he didn't sound angry, more curious "it's not in your division, is the pond in the 13th not to your liking?"

"I feel close to him here" you say quietly, seeing him nod in your peripheral. You knew he would understand it was your husband you were referring. "its full of good memories" 

"for me too." You turn your head to look at him questioningly. His grey eyes, softer than you had ever seen looked back at you "yours is not the first proposal this pond has seen. This is where I asked Hisana to be my wife" 

That's right, Captain Kutchiki had also lost his spouse. Another person who shares the pain of missing the other half of their soul. You wondered what his wife had been like. Stories told she was beautiful, graceful and with a kind heart. You wondered if she had loved the setting of her proposal as much as you did, here at this pond. Two proposals, two marriages, two deaths. Two widows

"maybe this place is cursed" the words slipped through your lips before you realised you had said them out loud. Fingers covering your mouth you turned to look at the captain apologetically "forgive me. That was rude" 

"it's fine. It's not a thought I've not already had"  he replied, voice not giving away any emotion

"it's his birthday today. The first one where he's not here" heavens knows why you're telling him this. You've not spoken to anyone about your husband. Yet, with the man who had lost his wife, you seem unable to stop yourself "they say the firsts are the hardest" 

"that's not true" Kuchiki said carefully, glancing down at you "they're all hard"

You looked at him then, really looked at him. His eyes were shiny, corners of his lips turned down, shoulders slumped almost defeated. He looked like he was carrying a painful burden

"how long as it been sir? Since you lost your wife?"  You asked quietly. After a long pause you thought that maybe he wasn't going to answer. Not wanting to pry, you turned your gaze back to the stars

"6 years this spring" he uttered finally, surprising you

"the pain doesn't go away...does it?" You say. It wasn't really a question that needed answering. You knew the pain in your heart wouldn't leave. You knew there wouldn't be a day that you wouldn't miss him. From the look on the Captains face, mirroring your own, you knew he felt the same

"no, I'm afraid it doesn't" and with a barely noticeable nod, the captain left you to your thoughts.

"happy birthday my love." You whisper into the night sky, eyes fixating on the brightest star "I miss you"

——————————————————

You staggered and swayed through the 6ths divisions baracks. The blurry faces of shinigami as they passed you by payed no mind. You weren't even sure if they were real. Half empty bottle of sake swung sloppily at your side as you continued on your inebriated journey. Your feet heavily slapped the floor as you walked, the sound deafening. Shushing your too loud feet, you chuckled amused.

The pond coming into view spurred your pace, practically tripping over your own feet in your haste to get there quicker. Reaching the waters edge, you fall back heavily onto your ass, huffing at the abrupt halt to your fall, you could have sworn the grass was further away.

Taking a long pull from your sake, you don't notice when it spills over the side and down your front. The world begins to sway, corners of your vision blurring everything into dull colours. Trying to focus your gaze across the pond, picking something solid to focus on so not to slip into darkness.

You couldn't remember the last time you were this drunk. Back in your academy days probably. You never were much of a drinker, at least never to this state. The concerned looks from your colleagues today finally made you accept their invitation to go out for some drinks. Just two, you told yourself, then you can sneak away back home to be alone with your thoughts.

Two turned into three, which turned into five. The gripping pain in your heart had lessened somewhat. You could almost breath again. Five turned into seven and you were laughing. Really laughing. Finding your colleagues stories amusing, embracing their drunken embraces and toothy grins. You had almost forgotten about the anguish you felt every day. Until you remembered.

The guilt swallowed you. Dampening your mood dramatically. You had forgotten, if only for a shot while, that your husband was dead. What kind of monster does that?! Happily drinking and dancing and singing. Not a care in the world. You felt disgusted with yourself. Grabbing a bottle of sake from the table, you left, ignoring the calls from your friends as you stumbled from the establishment. There was only one place your drunken mind wanted to be

the sun was still setting. A sliver of light cast the skys in beautiful purples and oranges, rays making the ponds surface almost sparkle. Like the stars. Squinting your eyes in the harsh light, you look down into the bottle in your hand. Sloshing the liquid around absentmindedly. You wanted to feel that numbness again, if only for a moment.

Ignoring the wave of nausea, you down the rest of the liquid, dropping the bottle next to you as you cough around the burn. Alcohol laden brain was thinking of nothing and everything all at once. Closing your eyes you fall back onto the grass, waiting for slumber to pull you into the darkness

"it won't help". You didn't need to open your eyes. You knew who had come to join you out by the pond.

"it might" you slurred your words, cracking one eye open to see him standing above you, grey eyes focusing on the empty sake bottle besides you "seems to work for Captain Kyoraku" 

"Captain Kyoraku is an emotionally stunted child, you would do well not to indulge in his bad habits"  Kuchikis voice settled over you, it was deep and comforting. He may have been scolding you, you really couldn't tell when this drunk.

"I like the numbness." You shrug, though your voice broke in the middle. "I don't want to be in pain anymore" the whisper followed

"the pain will still be there. You can't drink away these emotions." You didn't want to hear those words, no Matter how truthful. You wanted ignorance and bliss. You just wanted your heart to stop hurting for long enough to get some decent sleep. "It will still be there in the morning, accompanied by a throbbing head I imagine"

An unexpected sob ripped through your throat, tears forming on your lashes "I don't want to hurt anymore" you cry out softly

"can you stand?" You don't even hear him anymore. Nor do you feel his large hand gently trying to guide you into a sitting position

"I miss you" you sob around a shivering breath, speaking out to the man who could no longer talk back. Could no longer comfort you, hold you "please don't leave me alone: I can't live without you"

You felt like you were falling, the ground suddenly pulled from underneath you. Opening your eyes startled, your hands came out to grab at something to steady you, falling on something soft. Furrowing your brows you realised it was the Captains white coat. He had picked you up and was carrying you bridal style away from the pond.

Alcohol didn't give you anytime to be embarrassed as it quickly pulled you into the sweet relief of darkness. The gentle footsteps and the subtle smell of something sweet and almost spicy lulled you into a deep sleep, head resting heavily on a strong chest.

——————————————————

It had taken you a little over a month to face going back to the pond. The morning after you last visit you had woken to a horrendous headache and your stomach doing flips. You had laid in bed wallowing in self pity, willing the embarrassing images of Captain Kuchiki carrying your drunk ass home and putting you to bed. You didn't even want to think about anything that you could have did or said that you do not remember. You were still baffled that he somehow knew where you lived

The pull of yours and your husbands special place was too strong however, so pushing down the embarrassment and shame, you came back. You needed to feel close to him. No matter the length of time your heart still called out to his, knowing it wouldn't call back. You had a rare day off, insisted by Captain Ukitake. Apparently news of your drunken night had reached his ears. You could see the concern in his kind eyes as he invited you to share some tea with him.

He was trying to get you to talk, to share your pain. You knew that. You couldn't share though, the pain was the only thing that still connected you to your husband. It was the only thing you had left. He smiled in understanding, but had insisted you take a day off to relax. So you came here. The pond was even more beautiful in the sunlight. It invited more memories of you and your beloved, the times you had shared here.

The seasons were changing, if the chill in the breeze was anything to go by. You imagined the pond water would be just as cold if you were to dip your feet in there. You wouldn't dare, you too had heard how protective Captain Kuchiki was over his koi fish. Your cheeks flushed at the thought of the Captain. Mortified came close to how you felt. A Captain shouldn't have to carry home a seated member from another division due to their poor drinking restraint.

A noble clan head at that. You must've embarrassed him too, degrading him to such a chore. No, you wouldn't be touching alcohol for quite some time. You should thank your lucky stars he hasn't banished you from returning. Something he could easily achieve. Not only could he order you as a captain, could even go to your captain, the kuchiki clan puts a lot of money into the 6th division. The land was legally his, and you would be trespassing.

You heard his approach this time, amazing how heightened your senses were when not on the edge of unconsciousness due to the numbing cloak of drunkenness. You couldn't imagine how far gone you had to have been not to feel his presence. The nobles spiritual pressure demanded respect even when relaxed. You look at him through your lashes, trying to gage his intentions. He didn't look angry, on the contrary, he looked almost.. happy?

"Im Relieved to find you sober, LN-san" he spoke carefully, surprising you as he chose to join you on the floor. You waited until he was sat in his perfect seiza position before responding, shifting your position to face him, you bowed deeply, speaking into the grass

"please accept my apologies Captain. It won't happen again"

"tea?" 

You raised yourself up from the bow quickly, quirking a questioning eyebrow at the Captain, had you heard that right? You noticed for the first time the flask the captain held in his hand, two cups sat on top.

"oh" you couldn't help but mutter, you had heard him correctly. Captain Kuchiki placed the cups on the perfectly manicured grass between you before taking off the lid to the flask, letting the mesmerising steam escape as it danced into the air before disappearing. "Please sir, let me" you reach out to accept the flask from him, stopping him from pouring. Whilst you didn't regularly share tea with others of a higher status, you knew the customs. A higher up shouldn't pour the tea, and you couldn't get more higher up than captain Kuchiki.

Pouring you both a cup of the hot, translucent tea, the smell reached your nose. If the colour didn't give it away the smell would've. The robust almost grassy scent was familiar, something you indulged often, though not of this quality. Handing the first cup to the Captain, you bowed your head respectfully. His slender fingers ghosted over your own as he accepted, making you twitch your fingers back before pulling your hand away all together. Had it really been so long since you felt the touch of another person that it startled you so?

"thank you, LN-san" he broke you out of your thoughts. You watched as he brought the cup to his lips, taking a tentative sip. Prompting you to lift your own to your lips, blowing into the light green liquid to cool it before indulging yourself. You watched over the rim of your cup how graceful the man moved, like water; each movement was fluid yet powerful. Complete dominance in his actions. You couldn't help but compare him to your husband. Your husband was a whirlwind, all long uncoordinated limbs. Expressively flailing them around in everything he did. Graceful was not a word often associated with him.

Noticing the pause in conversation becoming awkward due to your memorising, you finally take a sip. Definitely a higher quality tea than you were used to. It was full bodied and delicious. You eagerly took another pull before lowering the cup to your middle, letting the heat deep through to warm your fingers

"it's delicious, thank you"

the captains lips quirked up at the sides slightly before he covered them with his own drink. "I'm glad to see your tastes go beyond that of cheap sake"

was he.. making a joke?  How uncharacteristic. You send him a wary grin, happily accepting this over the scolding you deserved "I definitely won't be drinking like that again any time soon."  You say in-between another sip of the delicious tea, he nodded in agreement "Im Sorry you had to carry me home"

"you do not need to keep apologising, I assume your suffering the follow morning was a sufficient enough punishment"  his eyes caught yours over your shared drinks, gun metal grey shining with amusement before softening "how did you end up that inebriated?"

You sigh, settling back onto your ass to sit more comfortably. Really, how his legs could cope sitting in that position for so long was a testament to his strength. "I forgot about him" your soft words get caught in the breeze as you face the pond "just for a moment. I let my friends convince me to join them for a few drinks. After a while...just for a moment, I had forgotten that I should be sad. That my husband is dead..." 

"and you drank to forget your guilt" Captain Kuchiki finished for you with a seldom nod. You watched as the ponds surface rippled with the breeze, lapping at the sides. Listening to the hustle of shinigami beyond the wall of the 6th, getting on with their daily work. Half expecting the Captain to finish his tea and silently leave, like he had all your other encounters, you decided Captain Kuchiki was someone you should stop being surprised at when he spoke lowly, just for your ears "I can still remember the first time I had forgotten."

You turn to face him at his words, his eyes were looking forward, out of focus, not seeing what was in front of him. Instead seeing vividly the memory he was sharing "I was tired. I had stayed late finishing an important document expected at the first the following morning. When I arrived home I called out for her. Asked if she would like some tea before bed" A small sad smile settled on his lips as he turned to you, holding your gaze as you held on to every word "when I didn't get an answer, I remembered. I never would get an answer" 

You shared an understanding smile. The pain of longing for someone no longer here. How that painful scar reopened any time you thought you were healing. You were thankful to the Captain, taking time out of his clearly busy schedule to converse with you. Share in the pain you both feel. Even look after you when you were in no fit state to look after yourself . It made you wonder, if the Captain had anyone to help him? Did the captain have someone he could've shared these thoughts with at the time of his wife's passing?

Would anyone dare approach the proud noble, ask him to bare his soul, lay out his pain and suffering for others to see? Somehow, you couldn't imagine it. You couldn't imagine the stoic man crying to another. Perfect poise crumble away as he gave in to the grief. The fact that he had probably suffered alone, for so long and is still standing? A pillar of strength you so desperately needed in the storm of emotions you were drowning in. You were in awe. You hoped that sharing with you, to help you, helped him in some small way too.

"though they will never be forgotten." He added, voice sounding stronger as he held your gaze once more "you will have more and more times when he isn't in the forefront of your mind as time passes. It's the way it should be, the living going on living." 

You nod. He was right, you knew that. You knew that realistically you can't Morn your husband all day every day for the rest of your existence until you two can meet again. There will come a time when the thought of your husband Doesn't immediately send you into a spiral of depression. Hours, days even weeks may go pass without thinking of him, too busy living your life to the best of your abilities, the way it should be. For now though...

"what did you do sir? When everything got too painful?" You ask, clearly alcohol wasn't the crutch you needed.

"I meditated, entered my inner world mostly." You could hear the honesty in his words. Maybe you should give that a try next time it all becomes too much "I also indulged in as many different types of tea I could find in this world and the world of the living"

another joke. Who was this man with the satisfied smile and where did he put the proud stoic captain? You grinned at him, an honest unforced grin "you didn't go the alcohol route? You saw how beneficial that was for me" 

"Im surprised you had found any sake at all. I was under the impression Captain Kyoraku had drunk the Seireitei dry". He replied dryly

You held your tea further away from your body to avoid it spilling and burning you at the loud laugh that bubbled up from you. Fingers went to your lips to hush the unexpected laughing fit you found yourself in. Who knew the Captain of the 6th was funny? Dry and sarcastic, but you had always enjoyed that humour. His eyes glistened amused, pleased you had understood his jest.

You wiped away a tear, a happy tear for a change, brought on by laughter and not sorrow, and gave him a grateful smile. You hurried to finish your tea as he began to move, collecting his flask and cup as he stood. Standing along with him you offered back your now empty cup

"thank you. For the tea, and for speaking with me " you told him, choosing not to bow this time, but offer a genuine smile. A strong hand settled on your shoulder, giving it a small squeeze "next time it becomes too painful, try a hot cup of tea. Don't put yourself in a dangerous position again" 

"I will."  You nod, accepting the slight telling off. He was a captain, he couldn't let you get away with that completely "though I don't think I will find one in the shopping district as wonderful as the one you shared with me. You've spoilt me sir".

He graced you with a private smile and a slight raise in his eyebrows before he settled back into the dignified Captain everyone expected and strode away gracefully without a backwards glance

——————————————————

The following morning you walked to work feeling lighter than you had in months. Your heat still ached. There was still the heavy weight of grief weighing densely in your stomach, but it wasn't as pressing today. You had a good sleep last night, you managed the whole night and had woken up feeling refreshed. The winters sun was bright, fighting against the frigid temperatures that winter brought. The heat it offered soaked into your thick black cloak, warming you as you hurried to the 13th offices.

Yesterday was a good day. One you sorely needed. You must remember to thank Captain Ukitake for gifting it to you. A day sat in the sun, at the pond had clearly done your soul some good. That or the time you spent with Captain Kuchiki, it was almost like he had neatly wrapped up your grief and anguish and placed it on your back. Still heavy and present, but a little more manageable to bare than the overflowing mess of hurt and regret that spilled through your fingers any time you tried to grasp it.

Following the corridor down to your office, you returned the smile of one of your colleagues, even wishing them a good morning. You caught the shocked expression flashing their face before they returned your greeting warmly. You obviously looked better than you had the last months.

Reaching your office you tug off your cloak, hanging it neatly by the door before making your way to your desk, smiling at the two who shared the office before sitting down. A small grey box sat in the middle of your neat desk, a stark white card sat folded ontop. Not expecting anything, you opened the card and began to read the crisp neat writing

for when things become to painful

was all that it said. Looking up you noticed your colleagues looking down at their respective desks, already immersed in their paperwork. Setting the card aside, you gently pry off the grey lid, setting it aside with the card. Sat in the box was a plump bag full of green tea leafs. Lifting it out you inspected the packaging, not recognising the design. You brought it up to your nose, inhaling deeply. The deep aroma filled your senses, making your mouth water at the memory of the delicious tea you were offered the day before .

Putting the tea to the side, you began to work on your daily duties. You hardly noticed eyes flicking to the package throughout the day, nor the small smile on your lips each time.

——————————————————

Months had passed along with the changing seasons. Spring was in the air, slowly but surly chasing away the bitter frost of winter, bringing with it new life. The barren trees began sprouting vivid green, little buds nestled away waiting to bloom into sweet smelling flowers.

The months that passed seemed to rush by you. You still had bad days. The grief of loosing your husband would crush you suddenly, though you found healthier ways to deal with the hurt. The pond was still somewhere you frequented often, sometimes alone, but more often than not the Captain of the 6th would grace you with his company.

You had started to look forward to your encounters. Moving away from your shared loss you discovered you had quite a few more things in common. Tea, obviously was a shared indulgent and was often shared. Reading was another passion you each held. You had spent hours discussing the books you have read, some the other had read too. The ones not yet read were brought to the next encounter for the other to read.

Painting, you discovered was a passion of the Captain. When you had mentioned wanting to see some of his work one day, you hadn't anticipated the noble inviting you to his home. You had graciously accepted and joined the captain for dinner in his home, after a tour of the grand manor. Art filled the great rooms and grand corridors. The Captain pointed out which were done by his hand, beautiful art work that captivated your attention

He painted scenic landscapes mostly, with an interesting take of almost dream like colours. The pond was the main focal in a few of the paintings you had seen. One in particular caught your attention. It was the pond at night time. Two things caught your attention, the first being how dark the colours were. Not the usual green, blues and purples that had jumped off the paper in his previous work. Black, navy and grey made up this piece. It made the night dark and cold. Heavy almost, you could feel the sorrow in the picture

The second, was the figure of a woman standing in the centre of the piece. A dark silhouette, seemingly hugging her frame as she looked out into the water. It was the first piece he had shown you that consisted of a person

"is that your wife?" You had asked him, eyes raking over the painting at the delicate but deliberate strokes.

"no, its you" your eyes snapped to him at his reply, studying his profile as his eyes never left the painting.

"me sir?" You asked, looking back to the picture, noticing the hair length and proportions to the woman. After being told, you could see how it could be you, though you share a similar shape to many women here in the soul society

"does that offend you?" He asked, a note of trepidation in his usual apathetic voice

you shake your head softly, looking back to see him already staring at you, trying to gage your thoughts "not at all. I'm flattered, Captain Kuchiki. When..?"

"Byakuya" he cut you off, turning to face you fully "you are a guest in my home, there is no need for the formality, you may use my given name" 

"Byakuya" you said, feeling how the name sounded on your tongue. "When did..? Why did you choose to paint this?"

"that first night I joined you at the pond. After I had left, something made me turn around. The image of you standing at the waters edge, wind blowing your hair around was hauntingly beautiful." You remembered that night. It was dark and cold, like the painting suggests. You remember wrapping your arms around you, keeping yourself together whilst trying to keep yourself warm. You looked at the painting again, hauntingly beautiful was the perfect way to describe the image"When I next sat down to paint, that image was the first to appear in my minds eye"

"you captured the moment perfectly". You praised, glancing at the art once more. A warm hand settled on your lower back, pulling your attention.

"come, let us enjoy dinner" Byakuya invited as he lead you down the hall, gentle hand guiding you

———————————————————

You twisted and turned in your bed, blankets wrapping themselves around your legs limiting your attempt to escape. The nightmare you were trapped in was vivid, the scene of your husbands death clear in your mind. Pitiful whimpers left your lips as your husbands blood sprayed from his body, splattering over your face as you screamed.

Jerking upright in bed, a horrific shout ripped through your throat as you startled awake from the dream. A deafening crash of thunder rumbled through the skies, shaking the glass in your bedroom window as a crack of lightening briefly lit up your empty bedroom.

Breathing heavily, you kicked off the blanket constricting your freedom. A thin layer of sweat covered your trembling body, skin raising in bumps at the chill in your room. The room seemed as though it were getting smaller, walls trapping you in the space. Not thinking clearly you jumped out of bed and fled the room, not stopping to wrap up or put on shoes, you threw the door to your home open and darted out into the street

Punishing, cold rain fell heavily from the sky, soaking you  instantly. Your hair stuck to your face as you gasped desperately, fighting to lessen the panic you were feeling. Another roar of thunder made you jump, snapping you out of your darkening thoughts. Not feeling the chill, you start running bare foot through the streets, only one place on your mind

You didn't know how long you were staring out to the turbulent  pond, rain hammering down around you as the wind whipped harshly against your skin. The rain washed away the free flowing tears from your eyes, teeth chattering painfully, protesting the cold

"YN!" The shout of your own name hardly registered, you would have ignored it completely if two hands didn't grip your sopping shoulders, turning you to face the concerned Captain with a shake. "What are you doing?"

Byakuya had to shout to be heard over the raging storm. You looked up at him tearily, struggling with forming a sentence. He was drenched, sleek black hair void of his usual kenseikan was stuck to his elegant face. His sleep clothes covered by a gown, was clinging to his svelte form

His eyes scanned over you, looking for Injury. Not seeing any, he moved on hand to cup your cheek. The warmth of his hand seeped into your skin, highlighting how cold you had become "what's happened?" 

"it's not fair" you wail around a sob as your hands come out to clutch at his clothing. Trying to hold on to something, anything as you spiralled "He's GONE and I... I just"

"shh" he tried to sooth you from your desperation "it'll be okay"

"no!" You shout back, pushing him from your hands in an effort to escape. He reached for you again, trying to grasp hold of your weakened arms flailing about, punching meekly at his chest. Thunder rolled around you, sharp crack of lightening sounded too close over head "no, it's not okay! He's dead and I can't stop seeing it! I see him every night, being ripped apart.."

the animalistic cry that tore from you startled him. Every shuddering breath screamed agony. Succumbing to your anguish, the fight left your body. With a small tug, Byakuya pulled you into his embrace. Strong arms wrapped around your shivering frame as you cried out into his chest. He waited patiently, head resting on yours, holding you close as you slumped into him, crying out your pain.

When the wailing quietened down into soft crying and shuddering breaths Byakuya pulled back slightly, catching a glimpse of your face. Eyes were reddened by your tears, your skin looked paler than it should be, shivers racked your body. You gazed back up at him, eyes begging, pleading for some of his strength.

"allow me to take you home?" It was a question you could tell he wouldn't be taking no for an answer. Nodding slightly, you tried to step away when his arms around you stopped you. Adjusting the placement, Byakuya lifted you easily into his arms, carrying you bridal style. Too weak to offer any Resistance, you tuck your head into his neck while a hand sneaked back up to his chest, holding on tightly to his clothing.

Eyes dropping closed, sleep threatened to take you in the gentle rocking of his sure footsteps. Raising your head slightly to wake yourself up, you realised it wasn't your home he was taking you to as The Kuchiki manor appeared before your eyes.

———————————————————

Byakuya entered his home, following the now familiar hallway that led towards his bedroom. The painting you had admired, the one with you at the pond, came into view briefly. Slipping through the door, carefully adjusting his hold on you so not to hit your head on the door frame, Byakuya sat you gently down onto a large western style bed. You sank softly into the mattress, aching body desperately wanted to climb into it for warmth.

"wait here a moment " Byakuya told you before walking across his room and into another door, that you saw held a bathroom. Looking around his bedroom you noticed how neat it was. There wasn't much in the way of decorations. The bed was the main focal point, something that surprised you. You would've assumed he had a traditional Japanese futon, judging by the rest of his home that you've seen.

The sound of running water caught your attention. Looking over you could see steam billowing out from the ajar bathroom door. Soft jasmine smell filling up the space. A moment later Byakuya walked out of the bathroom, looking dryer with a clean navy blue gown wrapped around him. His long damp hair was tied loosely at the nape of his neck. Coming to a stop in front of you, he offered a hand. Taking it in yours you allowed him to help you to your feet before following him into the warm bathroom.

"I prepared a bath. You need to warm up or you'll become unwell" he told you, dipping his fingers into the soapy water to test the temperature. Seemingly satisfied, he straightened to face you "take your time. There's towels there on the counter" he nodded behind you before turning to leave. Your hand darted out to catch his before he could leave, stopping, he looked at you questioningly over his shoulder

"wait" you croaked out, voice horse from the crying "please don't leave. I don't want to be alone" 

you watched as his eyes flickered to you, then the bath and back, holding your breath, worried you had crossed a line. With a curt nod you let go of his hand, allowing him to close the bathroom door. After a moment of watching Byakuya stare at the bathroom door you realised he was giving you privacy to undress. Quickly peeling the damp sleep clothes off your body, you haphazardly folded them and placed them on the floor before stepping into the hot bath

A small hiss left your lips as the warm water felt scorching against your freezing skin. Sitting slowly to let your body adjust to the shift in temperature, you sat in the middle of the large tub, bringing your knees up to your chest and resting your head on your arms settled on top. A relieved sigh escaped as you closed your eyes, soaking up the warmth

"you can turn around now" you mumbled to Byakuya still facing the door. You opened your wavy lids, watching as he came to collect your damp clothing, depositing them into a hamper in the corner, before leaning against the sink counter

"I thought we had agreed you would no longer put yourself into dangerous situations" his words made you wince. Whilst he had his arms crossed over his chest, he didn't particularly look angry.

"I'm sorry" you mumble, trailing your fingers through the white bubbles floating on the surface "I wasn't thinking clearly, It just became too much, I needed to escape" 

"in the middle of the worst storm we've seen the last three years?" Ok, now he sounded a little angry "that was foolish. Anything could have happened to you out there. It was only by chance I looked out my bedroom window at the lightening and spotted you " 

"there's no one left to care if anything did happen" you say a little numbly, you had no more tears to cry that evening

"I care" your head whipped round to face him. Would he? You knew you had gotten closer over the last year, developed a strange friendship on the foundation of loosing a spouse. You would be sad if you suddenly couldn't see him again, but would he genuinely care if you were hurt? Yes, if the honesty shining in his eyes were to be believed. Captain Kuchiki was many things, but a liar was not one of them. Nor was he one to spin a tale in order to comfort someone.

"sorry" you breath again, actually meaning it this time. You watched as he sighed heavily, pushing off the counter to walk over to you. He rolled up his sleeves before crouching down next to you. Reaching over, Byakuya grabbed a cup from the side of the bath and filling it. You gasped as he poured it over your head, pulling the cold water from your hair as it trickled down your back. It took another three cups before the water ran warm again against your skin.

The pop of a lid and the sweet smell of almonds alerted you moments before you felt nimble fingers begin to wash your hair. The soothing scratching against your scalp had you dropping your head forward. Sighing deeply at the relaxing feeling. His fingers stopped only for a moment when a satisfied moan left your lips, before resuming in the careful washing.

"lean your head back" his strained voice snapped you out of your daze, quickly following the order. Tilting your head back to avoid soap getting in your eyes, Byakuya began methodically rinsing your hair, gently squeezing the strands of excess moisture when he had finished. You turn to look at him over your shoulder, sending him a small smile

"thank you" 

"are you sufficiently warmed?" He always spoke so proper, even in an intimate setting as this one was. At your nod he rose gracefully, grabbing a fluffy white towel from the counter. Turning to face you he held it open, giving you privacy to stand up without flashing everything you had. Once you climbed out the bath and pulled the plug, Byakuya wrapped the towel around you, holding it closed with his arms around your back. You rested your palms on his chest, looking up into his grey eyes.

Your heart beat heavily in your chest as he leaned in ever so slightly, stopping himself before he followed through. Wanting to show your gratitude, you closed the distance, eyes fluttering closed as you kissed him sweetly. Afraid you read the signs wrong at his stiffening body, you were about to pull back when his arms gripped you tighter, pulling you flush against his body.

A sigh parted your lips, in which he took advantage, shyly slipping his tongue into your mouth to caress your own. A jolt ran up your body at the contact, the kiss was so unfamiliar to you, having only kissed one person the past decade, yet you sank into it easily. One of his hands smoothed over your back, sliding its way to the back of your head and grasping your hair lightly, changing the position of your head to his liking.

You both parted, each breathing heavily as you stared into eachothers eyes, searching for any regret. Not finding any, Byakuya gently kissed your forehead, mumbling into the skin "you must be tried. I shall go find you something to sleep in"

He released you to walk back into his bedroom. Sleep was the last thing on your mind at that moment, the kiss suddenly waking you fully. Taking a moment to centre yourself, you grabbed another towel to roughly dry your hair. Helping yourself to a comb you quickly brushed through your hair before following. Upon entering the bedroom, you saw one half of the beds blanket pulled back, ready for you to slide in.

Byakuya stood at the foot of the bed, white T-shirt in hand "I hope this will suffice" he said, holding out the offered garment. You nod with a shy smile, slipping it over your head before removing the towel. Placing it in Byakuyas waiting open palm, his nod to the bed had you climbing in, wrapping the blanket around you as he returned the towel to the bathroom.

You sat up on his return, noticing he was avoiding eye contact. "Sleep well" he muttered before turning to the door

"wait," you call out confused, speaking to his back as he didn't turn around, luckily he did stop walking "where are you going?"

"I was going to sleep in the spare room"

"don't be silly, come sleep in your bed" you insist, pulling the blanket back for him. The look he gave you over his shoulder was uncertain,

"YN, I don't think.."

"just get into bed, Byakuya" you told him, adding an almost desperate "please"

A another protest died on your lips as he continued on to the door, for him to only switch off the light. You laid down as he got into bed, snuggling into the fluffy pillow facing him. You noticed how far away he was from you, practically laying on the edge of the bed, staring up to the ceiling . You smiled into the darkness, reaching out to grab his hand. He jumped at the contact which widened your grin. Infamous Captain of the 6th being startled? Impossible 

You tugged gently on his hand, pulling him towards you "you'll fall off if you stay over there" you whispered to him. You were pleased when he relented, Scooching closer to you, to also lay on his side facing you. Your hands stayed joined together between you. The darkness of the room made it difficult to make out his features, unable to see how he was feeling, you decided to bring up the elephant in the room .

"we can forget it happened, if you prefer" you say, regarding the kiss. Clearly he was struggling with it, you were surprised that you weren't.

"I don't want that" he admitted, shuffling closer to you, you could feel his breath ghosting your face.

"I don't either"

You could see Byakuya lean forward hesitantly, before closing the gap and bumping into your nose. You giggle as he ran a hand down his face

"I am sorry. It's just, it's been a while" he trailed off.

"it's okay"  you sooth, the moon shining through the window illuminated his face just enough for you to make out where his features were, so you leaned in to kiss him gently. He reciprocated just as sweetly, not demanding more than you were willing to give. Sliding your body closer to his, your free hand cupped his smooth cheek, increasing the pressure of your lips.

Byakuya groaned deep in his throat, parting your lips with his own to explore your mouth with his tongue. His free hand settled on your waist, pulling you closer to him. His hand wandered as you kissed, gently caressing up your side, a burning trail left in its wake. You let your hand trail down from his cheek, easily slipping into the robe he wore. His breath hitched as your fingers made contact with his well defined chest. Smoothing over the soft skin you explored his chest, causing a slight jolt as you brushed over a nipple.

Byakuya deepened the kiss, lifting from the bed slightly to lean over you. Your hand traveled up to his shoulder, gently pushing the thin material away. Breaking away from the kiss, breath mixing between you as you panted deeply, Byakuya shrugged off the arm of his robe before doing the same on the other side. Pooling at his waist, secured by a knotted sash, his arms and chest were exposed. Your fingers tickled over his chest, marvelling at the smoothness. His pale skin was flawless, void of any blemishes.

Leaning down to capture your lips, Byakuya cupped the side of your neck, gently stroking your cheek with his thumb. Reaching up, your fingers found the tie holding his hair back, with a gentle tug you pulled it free, letting his silky strands cascade over his shoulders. A small moan escaped you, heat pooled at your centre as you pushed your thighs together craving friction at his answering groan.

"are you certain?" Byakuya spoke lowly, lips centimetres away from your own. You nod, teeth capturing your full bottom lip, teasing the skin there. You open your legs in invitation, creating space for him to fill, which he immediately slipped into at your verbal response

"please, I need you"

The back I've his fingers trailed down your cheek, following the slope of your neck, the path followed by tentative kisses. Tilting your head to the side to grant him more room, the intensity of those searing kisses increased. You wrapped your legs around his own, tangling your legs together under the blanket. His fingertips brushed up your thigh, tickling the sensitive skin with the hardened callouses formed from decades of training with a zanpakuto , slowly pushing up the hem of the T-shirt you wore. His hot breath ghosted over your neck, breathing deeply near the shell of your ear making you shiver in anticipation.

Trailing your fingers down his naked chest, you groaned into the room as he suckled on your pulse point, sending a wave of arousal through you

"Byakuya" you whine wantonly, "please" 

His fingers grip the bottom of your top, pulling it slowly up your body and exposing your skin to the cool rooms air. Lifting slightly to aid in his attempt to pull it over your head and off you completely. Dropping it over the side of the bed, Byakuya surged forward to kiss you soundly, tongues meeting in a sensual dance. Your nails raked down his sides, hard muscles twitched under your fingertips. The sensation caused his body to jerk forward, his still covered arousal pressing against you. You followed the path to his gown, nimbly untying the sash holding it together and pulling it away completely, letting the garment follow your T-shirt.

You could feel everywhere his hot skin pressed against your own. A strong hand gripped hold of your hip, halting your squirming. Trembling slightly, the hand glided up your body, over the curves of your body to gently cup your breast. A shaky breath left his parted lips as he brushed a thumb over your hardened nipple, eliciting a addictive moan from you. You closed your eyes at the sensation, savouring the pleasure as he sweetly kissed his way down your neck, following the line of your sternum. When his hot mouth covered your nipple, sucking gently, you cried out.

Lavishing attention on your breasts, Byakuya pushed himself closer to you, letting you feel the weight of his arousal on your lower stomach. You reached between you, wrapping your fingers around him and gave an experimental tug. He hummed in approval around your nipple, the vibrations sending a shiver through you. His penis felt smooth in your hand, a decent length with a slight upwards curl. You brushed your thumb over the weeping head, spreading the moisture to slicken up the next downward stroke of your hand. Byakuyas hips surged forward, chasing the exquisite heat encasing his cock.

Removing himself from your breasts, Byakuya sat back on his haunches. His hands gently parted your thighs before removing your hand from his length. Bringing it up to his lips to leave a chaste kiss on your knuckles before setting it on your stomach. You jumped in surprise as one of his fingers brushed up the centre of your sex, teasing it's way through your folds and spreading the moisture already there. You squeezed your thighs around him, head thrown back into the pillow in pleasure. Carefully he inserted two fingers into your heat, torturously slow he began to pump them into your velvety walls, coating them with your arousal.

Your heavy breathing was loud to your ears, keening softly at the delicious feeling of being filled. Your hips gyrated subtly on his hand, seeking out more. The hand not caressing your inner walls held your hips in place with a squeeze. Mercifully he increased his pace, plunging into your wet depths with accuracy. You moaned loudly, arching your back and pushing your heaving breasts higher. Your fingers gripped the sheets beneath you, desperate to hold onto something as the pressure built in your lower stomach

Feeling your walls tighten and spasm around his fingers, Byakuya held himself over you, large hand planted on the pillow next to your head. His hair fell around you, a curtain of black encasing you both in a protective shield from the outside world. Your arms wrapped themselves around his back, nails digging into the flesh at his shoulders. Fingers expertly bringing you to the edge of euphoria, Byakuya watched as your face contorted in pleasure, ready to swoop in and swallow your guttural moan as you exploded around his fingers.

Your body shook with trembles, the aftermath of an intense orgasm. You lessened your grip in his shoulders, soothing away the indents made by your nails with the palm of your hands. Breathing heavily, you regained enough coordination to return his desperate kiss. Parting, you reached down between you, holding his own neglected erection and directed it to the opening of your twitching core. As soon as the head made contact with your dampened folds, Byakuya pushed his hips forward, sheathing himself into your velvety heat.

Byakuya lowered himself onto you, forearms supporting most of his weight as he buried his head into your neck, moist breath coating your skin as he savoured the tight grip you had on him. He groaned into your neck, kissing you lightly as you wrapped your legs around his own, trapping him deep inside you. You squirmed under him, aching for him to move. Byakuya sighed out your name, sounding like a prayer from his lips as he slowly began thrusting into you. The deliberate drag of his hardened length pushing into your wet heat had you clenching your eyes tightly. 

Your moans mixed with his quiet groans in the otherwise silent room. He adorned your neck with loving kisses as he increased the power behind his thrusts, chasing after his building orgasm. Your hands mapped out the muscles in his back, moving under your palm with every thrust. The slapping of skin grew louder as he increased his speed. The need for cool air brought him out from the crook of your neck, choosing instead to  watch your face contort in pleasure under him. 

You open your eyes to meet his, already staring at you with unabashed desire. You manage a small smile before a particularly hard thrust had you seeing stars, mouth parted prettily as you choked out a moan. You lift your hips to meet his downward thrusts, pushing him into you to the hilt. 

"YN" he whispered full of praise as he peppered kisses on your face. You wrapped your around around his sticky back, thin sheen of sweat covering you both. 

"Byakuya " you groan, the tightening in your lower stomach becoming almost painful "please"

He captured your lips in a desperate kiss, thrusting into you in a punishing pace. The band snapped, a wave of pleasure washed over you as you sobbed out his name, breaking the kiss. The clenching of your inner walls gripped him in almost paralysing pleasure, his thrusts turned erratic and he pushed himself over the edge, following you into his own powerful orgasm. He stilled momentarily, breathing heavily through his nose, eyes squeezed shut in bliss. A few shallow thrusts followed as your spasming heat milked him  of his ejaculate. 

Heart rate steadily coming down, limbs heavy with exhaustion, Byakuya leaned down, kissing you softly. Slowly pulling himself from you, too sensitive to remain buried within you, he laid down heavily beside you, pulling you into his arms. You laid in silence, coming down from your high as you calmed your breathing. Byakuyas fingers drew patterns into the skin of your side absentmindedly, relishing in the post orgasmic glow. His fingers slowly trailed to a stop, arm hung heavily over your waist as his breathing evened out. You glanced up to confirm he had fallen asleep. 

Blindly reaching down, you gather the blanket to pull over your rapidly cooling bodies. You turn slowly in his arms, looking out to the window. The storm had passed, the lightening sky told you day break was fast approaching. Exhaustion laid heavily on your eyes, sleep threatening to pull you under. Giving in, you close your eyes, the image of your husband flashing through them. Your heart clenched painfully until Byakuyas arm tightened around your middle, pulling you closer into his chest as he sleepily nuzzled into your hair. A content small smile graced your lips as you succumb to the pull of sleep 

"forgive me, my love"

the last fleeting thought you had before you surrendered to the darkness 

[dxmoness]

KYRELL DYLAN DAMARIS. . .

─────── INFO?!

the abused leader of the damaris, kyrell. abused by his wife and his two other children with the exception of Legis.

─────── INVITATIONS?!

@primordixl , @lxdymoon0357 , @thenomadicdeity , @achy-boo , @writerig , @crownxie , @roseadleyn , @hykar1

[projectmoon-smash-or-pass]

propaganda for gin

propaganda for excision staff

[rayelic]

aquarium date <3

[hidansexwife]

(infinite tsukiyomi) dream come true

[dirtylittlesecret15]

Misaki Yata

Red clansman/ Homra

Age: 19

Sign: Cancer

Im not going to write anything else this time. Maybe later I will but right now I’m too tired.

[bellewood222]

K Dog & Cat manga back cover omake. I don't know Japanese whatsoever. I used various translator programs to make this English translation.

[bandousama]

Yata: in my defense, i was left unsupervised.

Kusanagi: wasn't Bandou with you?

Bandou: in my defense, i was also left unsupervised.

[itsuki-minamy]

"K - RETURN OF KINGS" (Novel)

CHAPTER 12: OPEN A PATH FOR HIM

* List of Chapters

Translation: Naru-kun Raws: Ridia

The hand that was about to open the door suddenly stopped. A voice was heard from the HOMRA Bar and he remembered something.

The reason why Misaki Yata quickly walked away from the door was not because he was scared. It was just awkward that Reisi Munakata was the one who killed Suoh Mikoto. Although he mentally understood that this was a hopeless outcome, Yata was a man of emotions.

Thinking that if they met face to face he would say something unwanted, he hid behind the store.

The door opened and, sure enough, Munakata came out. Instead of his usual blue clothes, he was wearing a coat and casual clothes.

(What does the "Blue King" want in my house?)

The moment such a question appeared in Yata's mind, Munakata spoke.

"Yata Misaki-kun from "Homura"."

He stiffened and cringed. Yata came out from behind the store, toying with the idea that he didn't like him because he knew everything from the beginning.

"Yes, what do you want?"

"I know you were friends with Fushimi-kun before he joined "Homura"."

Yata's eyes widened at the sudden words.

He didn't want anyone to talk about Fushimi.

Especially now. He had no idea what he was thinking. Yata expressed his frustration.

"He's not my friend. He betrayed Mikoto-san and me and ended up wearing blue clothes...!"

"Maybe he has to share my fate in death. I'm sorry if that happens. I would like to apologize first."

Yata's thoughts stopped when he was interrupted by the flowing words.

"What... what do you mean? Didn't he betray you and leave the blues?! And now... this time, he changed to the green...!"

"These were my instructions."

Munakata said that as if it were nothing.

"Before the Christmas operation, I gave instructions to Fushimi-kun. In case the operation failed due to the intervention of some unknown factor and the ''Slate'' was stolen, he should use all possible means to infiltrate the heart from ''Jungle''. He had changed clans once in the past, so he was the right person for the job."

"Hmm..."

His thoughts, which had stopped, began to move clumsily like rusty gears.

Fushimi did not betray him. The reason why he pretended like this was to infiltrate "Jungle" without suspicion and secretly help "Scepter 4" in their mission.

After thinking up to that point, Yata finally found a possibility.

"Isn't that dangerous?! If they find out, the Greens might kill him, right?"

"I agree."

Yata was speechless when Munakata said that so easily.

"I sent Fushimi-kun on a mission with no guarantee that he would return alive. This was a job that could only be left in his hands. Of course, he understood everything and agreed."

"How could you order your clansman to do something like that?!"

Munakata looked over his shoulder at Yata. Yata couldn't help but feel pressured by the cold look in his eyes.

"Why? Because we can't let "Jungle" do what it wants. "Scepter 4" is a clan of order. We can't just let the world fall into chaos. And Fushimi-kun is a member of "Scepter 4"."

Yata remained silent and stared at Munakata.

He enjoys freedom to the fullest with like-minded friends. This way of life suited Yata and he was willing to risk his life for it. He was already willing to sacrifice himself for that.

Maybe that's the case for him too.

He sacrificed himself for the ideals held by his "King". In his case, it may have been "order". Maybe he didn't betray anyone from the beginning. Just because he was faithful to his way of life.

Suddenly, Munakata asked as if he had an idea.

"There is a way for Fushimi-kun to survive. He must betray me and really join "Jungle". Do you think he will do that? As a former friend, you probably know him very well, Yata Misaki-kun."

Yata didn't have an answer for that.

But Munakata didn't seem to want to wait for an answer. He turned his back on Yata again and began walking slowly. The last words he murmured echoed in Yata's ears like a prophecy.

"Whether the door opens or not... then you will know the answer he gave."

And Yata saw it.

The target point, the Yomito intersection protected by "Jungle". The asphalt split open, exposing the helpless figure.

"...Saruhiko."

As Yata watched from the bow of the airship, he bit his lip hard as he murmured the name of his former friend.

+++++++++++

"Homura" was flying in the sky.

In the midst of the chaos that suddenly began to occur frequently, the "Black Dog" appeared and guided them aboard the "Schattenreich" owned by the Silver Clan. The destination was the current location of the "Jungle" headquarters, the "Slate".

Nobody was afraid. Everyone knew that the time for a decisive battle would eventually come. Under the guidance of the "Silver King", Anna and the others boarded the airship and planned to enter all at once.

Currently, on the bridge of the "Shattenreich", the two clans meet face to face and have a final meeting.

"Beneath the place where the "Pillar of Light" was located, there is a water storage facility that was abandoned during construction. It seems that "Jungle" used it as a hiding place."

Kusanagi said to everyone on the lavishly decorated bridge. He taped a map of the "Jungle's" hideout's water storage facilities to a makeshift "strategy board" made by simply hanging cork boards in random locations. The enemy's expected military strength was written on the transverse diagram, which seemed to be divided vertically, and their own military strength was also assigned accordingly.

However, the only thing written there are the names of the members of "Homura". "Hakumaito" was in a situation where it could not be used as a response force.

"The "Slate" has been taken to the lowest floor of this facility. We will go there."

Kusanagi nodded at Shiro's words.

"We will act as support. We must ensure that Shiro-san and the others reach the lowest level. Do you understand, everyone? This is where you must put your guts."

"Yes!"

Although that strategy could have been considered unfair, no one objected to that. That's because everyone was informed beforehand that only "Hakumaito" and, more specifically, the "Silver King" could carry out that strategy.

Anna handed them the marbles one by one. Communication during the operation was planned to take place through Anna's supernatural network. The power of "Homura", who operates with desperate determination and perfect coordination, will far surpass "Jungle", who has superior numbers.

Among them, Yata was alone, silent and with his head bowed.

Anna approached him. She handed a shiny marble to the sinking Yata.

"Misaki, use this too."

Yata suddenly looked up as if he had realized that and forced a smile.

"Oh... leave it to me. I'm in charge of level nine, right?!"

Kusanagi suddenly let out a wry smile as Yata looked at the map and raised his voice.

"Yata-chan. That's ok?"

Yata was visibly shocked by those words.

"K-Kusanagi-san? What do you mean?"

"Go with Fushimi. You can take your position later."

Yata lost his voice and looked at everyone present.

It is clear that it was Munakata's instructions that Fushimi pretend to betray him, that it was none other than Fushimi who opened the door, and that he was in "Jungle's" hideout and was probably considered a traitor, as already explained. No one knows what condition Fushimi is in. Whether he was able to escape safely, was killed, or was on his way, it was clear to everyone that Yata wanted to help him immediately.

When his partner is in trouble, he runs to her side before anyone else. Because Misaki Yata is that kind of man.

"B-but, if I don't arrive on time..."

Anna's voice encouraged Yata as he tried to slouch again.

"It's okay. I believe in you, Misaki."

She was smiling silently. Unwavering confidence is reflected in her eyes.

Yata tightly gripped the marble she handed him.

At this moment, the aircraft's instruments began to emit a sharp warning sound.

"Sudden altitude drop! We're diving!"

"Everyone grab hold of somewhere!"

A violent tremor hit the airship. Kusanagi held Anna in his arms and the others also began to take defensive postures.

Amidst the commotion, there was no hesitation in Yata's eyes as he looked forward.

+++++++++++

Munakata took a deep breath and readied his saber.

The fog is thick. The entire intersection was submerged in gray, making it impossible to see even an inch ahead. Every time he slowly moves his feet, the mist clings to Munakata. This mist is Iwafune's eyes and fingers. No matter what happens, his body is in the other person's hands.

At this moment, there was a sudden flash of gunshots.

The difference between the impact of light and bullet is less than a tenth of a second. Munakata responded admirably to a situation that exceeded the limits of human reaction. He moved his neck with minimal movements to avoid the bullet aimed at his forehead. At the same time, he pointed the tip of his saber in the direction of the shot and began running immediately.

"Oops..."

A playful voice sounded and Iwafune's body, which was barely visible through the fog, swayed again. The tip of Munakata's sword simply pierced the fog.

He's been playing that cat and mouse game over and over for a while now.

But that certainly had meaning.

Iwafune must use his ability to distort space, the fog, to dedicate himself completely to Munakata. Although there may seem to be some room for maneuver, it is still a battle between "kings." If they try to devote even the smallest amount of their energy to something else, they might suddenly collapse.

In other words, the current Iwafune did not have the strength to thwart "Homura" and "Hakumaito".

Ironically, as Iwafune said before, Munakata is supposed to play the decoy role.

Suddenly, Munakata laughed softly.

If so, he is fine. The priority above all is to recover the "Slate" and restore order to the world. If that's the case, it doesn't really matter who takes the spear first...

The problem is that Munakata's "Sword of Damocles" is approaching his limits.

If it weren't for the thick fog obscuring his vision, he would have seen two swords there. A gray sword that glimmers and a blue sword that slowly begins to crumble.

When it falls, destruction will come upon them.

Suddenly, he heard Iwafune's voice from an unexpected direction.

"Won't you help him, Zenjo?"

Iwafune called out to him calmly as he loaded his revolver. Zenjo stood behind him, hand on the hilt of his saber, and did not change his stance as a spectator.

"That's not my job."

At Zenjo's response, Iwafune jokingly said...

"Haha. Does that mean your job is to kill the king who loses control like Habari?"

Shrouded in mist, Zenjo's facial expressions could not be seen. Even if he could have seen, Munakata would not have wanted to look. Taking advantage of the momentary gap, Munakata approached Iwafune.

"You can't allow distractions!"

The saber split the mist and approached Iwafune. Iwafune's relaxed smile never fades, and that image never disappears. Iwafune avoided the cut with dance steps and then hit Munakata in the side of the head with the butt of his revolver.

Red blood danced in the gray mist.

Munakata is not afraid. Taking another step, he launched a second and third slash.

Iwafune used fog this time. The saber's trajectory was distorted by the fog and missed Iwafune, who was supposed to be there. Iwafune then slid back, firing multiple shots as he backed away.

The bullet that could not be avoided grazed Munakata's body, spreading blood.

Iwafune, blurred through the fog, sneered at Munakata.

"What are you holding on to, Munakata? You're just being stubborn. The dice are rolled. The world you were trying to protect has already been destroyed."

Although he was bleeding, Munakata responded calmly.

"Yes, I'm being stubborn. It seems I don't like losing to you more than I thought."

"Do you hate me that much?"

"I hate the way you live your life."

Beyond the glowing mist, he could see Iwafune walking. Munakata narrowed his eyes and followed the figure closely.

"If you couldn't protect what you were supposed to protect, you threw everything away and ran away, that's fine. If you can no longer bear the burden of being a King, then you should give up and spend the rest of your life."

Iwafune spoke in a mocking manner.

"Are we supposed to pick up the bones of clansmen and cry in the corners?"

"That would be much better than it is now. What I don't like the most is that even though you broke free, you try to get out again."

Munakata's sharp eyes never let Iwafune escape.

"The world that the "Green King" is trying to create is a world in which the people you once tried to protect are brought to ruin. Not only have you abandoned your ideals, but you are trampling on your former ideals. I hate that so much it makes me want to vomit."

"Kuku.", Iwafune laughed only through his throat.

"Well, if I had to say whether I like you or not, I don't like you either. When I look at you, you remind me of my old self..."

Iwafune's self-deprecating smile disappeared the next moment.

"Even if your sword breaks once, you still don't understand it. Even if you wave your naive ideals, you won't be able to change anything!"

Screaming, Iwafune pulled the trigger in quick succession. There were many flashes of gunshots and a torrent of bullets that could be called random gunshots that attacked Munakata. Under hazy visibility, Munakata dodged the bullets, which were difficult to predict and react to, with minimal movement and tried to move forward.

Iwafune appeared in front of him.

"Guh...!"

When he thought about raising his guard, Iwafune's knee had already sunk into his cheek. In intense pain, Munakata's body was sent flying several meters away. Laughing at Munakata, who fell to the ground after being punched, Iwafune loaded only one bullet into his revolver.

"It's just a difference of opinion. What we're trying to create is a world where the weak are no longer weak. A world where you and I don't have to be killed by stupid monsters."

The muzzle of the gun pointed at the forehead of the fallen Munakata. He could feel the gray supernatural powers gathering around the barrel of the gun.

"If you want to sacrifice yourself so badly for your ideals, I will help you, Munakata. It will be a much better ending than destroying the sword and killing everyone you must protect...!"

Munakata tried to lift his saber. However, he could not put strength into his knees. Gritting his back teeth, Munakata stared into the muzzle of the weapon that would kill him.

"Wait a minute!"

At that moment, he heard a voice from somewhere.

Far away, beyond the fog. A new commotion came from outside the gray world around them. Mixed with the confused voices of the members of the "Jungle" clan, a familiar voice rang out.

"I'm here to see the boss's crisis!"

Domyoji stands out and destroys the enemy formation.

"Domyoji, don't run in alone! Akiyama, Benzai, let's go!"

Kamo, the eldest, led the rest of the group as he admonished them.

"Benzai, don't let your guard down!"

"Hmph, that's it!"

"Let me go first!"

Akiyama and Benzai, the most elite, work together in exquisite cooperation to defeat enemy clan members one after another.

"What?!"

Iwafune's attention was diverted. Beyond that, a group of blue-robed people broke through the wall of mist and burst into the gray world.

Gunshots flashed, the King's shots attacked them. On the other hand, "Scepter 4" developed an almost perfect synchronized defense. By layering and synchronizing the auras developed in a regular hexagon, they exert instant, but almost absolute, defensive power. That shield received the attack of the "Gray King" from the front and managed to block it.

"Captain, please stay safe!"

Awashima said that resolutely, standing in the center of the shield and protecting her "King" with the formation of it.

He was protected by them.

Understanding that as a fact, Munakata suddenly laughed.

"What are you guys doing in a place like this?"

With that, he slowly stood up.

Akiyama, standing next to Awashima, responded in an orderly manner, as if responding to a question from his superior.

"I decided that taking control of the "Jungle" fortress as soon as possible was the mission that needed to be carried out with the highest priority, so we came to support the Captain."

"I didn't ask for anything. Besides, I'm not your Captain anymore..."

"We're not a "Scepter 4" that can't move unless told to."

Kamo said that while his back was turned, and Munakata couldn't help but keep his mouth shut.

Benzai and Domyoji said in unison.

"Isn't the title of the "Fourth Branch of the Family Registration Division of the Tokyo Legal Affairs Bureau" a cover for "Scepter 4" after all?"

"That's right. It's just a formality."

"At all times, the Captain's cause is with us. We are the clansmen of the "Blue King" Reisi Munakata."

Hearing Awashima's words, the members of the "Special Task Force" nodded in unison. They keep their eyes on the enormous enemy before them, the "Gray King", but their fighting spirit does not waver in the slightest. Perfectly balanced, it seemed to be the embodiment of "order".

The title he thought he had discarded came back to him for a moment. As head of "Scepter 4", Munakata asked.

"What are the countermeasures against confusion in the city?"

"Currently, we are mobilizing the entire "Scepter 4" force to quell the unrest and rescue civilians. We are prepared to prevent further confusion from spreading."

Even if Munakata was still in the position of boss, he would probably have made the same decision. Deal with the situation and heal it at the same time, and try to end the situation as soon as possible. They are acting correctly based on their own will and intelligence.

Awashima looked over his shoulder and said with a calm smile.

"Give us your orders, Captain."

Munakata breathed in and out.

He felt as if something warm dwelt in his heart. Every time it beats, it pumps some kind of power along with blood throughout his body. It's probably a type of energy called passion. As someone who rules "order", it was an unexpected reaction.

Munakata declared loudly, hiding his passion behind a mask of calm.

"We, "Scepter 4", fulfill our duty as swordsmen. We will not allow disorder in this land, nor violence in this world. We will disperse the fog that tries to cover our boundaries. All members, draw your swords!"

"Akiyama, ready."

"Benzai, ready!"

"Kamo, ready!"

"Domyoji, ready!"

"Enomoto, ready!"

"Fuse, ready!"

"Goto, ready!"

"Hidaka, ready!"

"Awashima, ready!"

The clansmen drew their swords one after another, carefully pointing the tips at Iwafune while spreading their swords from side to side as if spreading their wings. They worked together so perfectly that they seemed like a single living being.

Iwafune, on the other hand, is alone. The fog is controlled by the deployed clan members, and on the contrary, the "Jungle" clan members are fleeing. It was exactly the image of a lonely "king" abandoned in the castle he was supposed to protect.

Still, Iwafune showed a mocking smile.

"This is the Blue Clan's code of honor? Ha, it's beautiful. But really, it's not supposed to be that beautiful, right?"

He slowly raised his gun and pointed it at Munakata, who was stationed in the center.

Fog gathered at the muzzle of the gun. Concentrating on one point, not for defense, but for attack. The clan members were visibly nervous. They managed to block it before, but they don't know what will happen next. That bullet could hit their King.

In the midst of that, Munakata stepped forward.

"You said the world I was trying to protect was destroyed."

"Eh...?"

"Maybe so. Extraordinary powers have been unleashed upon the world, and the world has changed decisively. No matter what we do, we will not be able to return to the world before the "Slate" awakened. But..."

Munakata said quietly and pushed up his glasses.

"Even if the world is broken, we will establish a new "order" within that broken world. That is my way of living."

Iwafune's face contorted with sadness.

"You are a person who fled from the tragedy in front of you. You are literally running back and forth, casting a fog over your vision, making what you should see vague. Hisui Nagare is already dead and you are only helping to create a paradise for the dead."

"As if I didn't know!"

Iwafune roared.

A gray mist spiraled toward the muzzle of the revolver. A dense gray aura that distorted the surrounding space gathered at one point, and the moment Iwafune pulled the trigger, it turned into a magic bullet and was released.

It was not Munakata who received the gray magic bullet that contained ideals, setbacks, despair and the regrets of hundreds of thousands of people who were left scattered without knowing the meaning.

The clan members he trusts: Akiyama Himori, Benzai Yujiro, Kamo Ryuho, Domyoji Andy, Enomoto Tatsuya, Fuse Daiki, Goto Ren, Hidaka Akira, Awashima Seri, etc. A supernatural field that developed at the same moment stopped the bullet.

The two supernatural powers came into contact, dispersing an intense spark of light. The clansmen gritted their teeth and endured the blow of the "King", which contained the ultimate power. It may have been as unreasonable and reckless as moving a mountain with human hands.

However, God's will only appear when a person's will be at its peak.

Munakata saw it. A member of the clan who fights against the "King". The strong will of people trying to face the absolute power difference with a single ray of hope and absolute confidence.

Munakata's saber flashed.

The magic bullet, which had been stopped by the supernatural shield, shattered into pieces with that single flash. With that momentum, the slash dispersed a gray mist, shattered the revolver he was holding, and sliced Iwafune's shoulder as his eyes widened in shock.

"Ah...!"

Iwafune fell on his back, his cassock soaked in blood.

The fog surrounding the intersection disappeared in an instant. It was as if the blow of the "Blue King" had opened the world. After the stagnant fog dissipated, a blue sky without a single cloud spread out.

Munakata looked at him and muttered as usual.

"We will advance with our sword in hand, for our cause is pure."

+++++++++++

Awashima held his breath and stared at the scene.

In front of her clear vision, the "Gray King" lay on the asphalt. Lying in a pool of dark blood, Iwafune pursed his lips ironically.

"Uh... I can't believe you won..."

His point of view was not towards Munakata, but towards the sky. He was staring at the two “King” swords floating there. The "Sword of Damocles".

"It's okay, Aonisai. Just try to stick to your will and ideals..."

Saying that, Iwafune gently closed his eyes.

At the same time, the gray "Sword of Damocles" floating in the sky disappeared. Awashima ran to Iwafune and checked to see if he was breathing.

Although weak, Iwafune was still alive. She assumed he simply passed out. Awashima looked at Munakata and said quickly.

"Captain. Let me give you some attention!"

"Forward."

Several clan members gathered around Iwafune and began to administer first aid efficiently. It's not just for humanitarian reasons. If the "Gray King" dies here, Munakata will have to bear the burden of killing the king. That was supposed to be a fatal damage to him now.

At this moment, a scream-like voice was heard from the surrounding area.

"The Ranker has been defeated! The "Blue King" is safe!"

"Oh, the guys in blue even showed up?! Shit, what are the rest of them doing?!"

"Oh, you're running away! Your precious points will be confiscated!"

The "Jungle" clan members who were blocking the intersection lost their calculations and fled. If they had started a chase, they could have captured more than a dozen people, but none of the "Scepter 4" personnel moved. There was something more important than that at that moment.

Of the two most feared enemies, the "Gray King" has been defeated. Of course, if they eliminate the "Green King", although the Rankers are a formidable enemy, the course of the battle will probably be decided.

"Scepter 4", who was delighted with the victory, waited for the next order from him. If Munakata gives the order, everyone will run to "Jungle's" hideout.

At that moment, Awashima noticed something strange.

Munakata remains still. He has remained in the same posture since he defeated Iwafune, not moving in the slightest.

Blue sparks began to dance all over his body.

When she couldn't help but look at the sky, the "Sword of Damocles" was still floating there. The cracks on the royal sword made of blue crystals visibly spread and the separated energy chunks disappear as if melting.

"Captain! You must make your Sanctum disappear immediately!"

Munakata looked over his shoulder at Awashima and suddenly smiled.

"I already did it. But it seems that it will no longer disappear by my will..."

"......"

The "Sword of Damocles" that appears when the "King" exerts all his power consumes an enormous amount of energy just by existing.

He can't erase it. In other words, Munakata is currently in a state of overdrive. Like the "Red King" who was once defeated by the sword, he can no longer control his own power.

What awaits them next is the worst-case scenario, an "burst of royal power".

At this moment, the figure of a man appeared at the edge of Awashima's vision.

The shadow of Gouki Zenjo with only one arm, carrying a huge saber.

Before she could think of anything, a voice came from Awashima's throat.

"Everyone, stay away! You too, Zenjo-san!"

Zenjo stood still, taking only one step.

His gaze is forever transparent. Like an old wolf, Zenjo's gaze towards that question, seeing Awashima's innermost thoughts.

He wondered if she could do it.

Awashima grabbed her saber tightly.

Many "kings" are gathered there. A "Damocles Down" is a catalyst for the destruction of others. If the Sword of Munakata fell, the damage would expand exponentially, and not only Japan but also East Asia could become a gigantic hole.

It's not even hundreds of thousands. Billions of human lives depend on a single decision.

Awashima thought about this for a moment and declared decisively.

"I am this person's assistant. If necessary... I will be there."

She unsheathed her saber and readied it.

Munakata's back still didn't move in the slightest.

To prevent the tip from shaking, Awashima pressed the hilt of her saber even harder.

+++++++++++

Anna closed her eyes and concentrated.

The supernatural network formed by the marbles imbued with her supernatural powers forms a structure similar to a kind of neuronal synapse. Each marble was Anna's eyes and ears and served as a communication network between its owners.

At that moment, numerous scenes unfolded in Anna's obscured field of vision.

"I'm Akagi, B2 on standby, okay!"

"Here Bando, B3 on standby, okay!"

"I'm Chitose, B4 on standby, OK!"

The key points up to the fourth floor of the basement have been controlled and Akagi, Bando and Chitose are in their respective positions. Those lying at his feet were the members of the "Jungle" clan, and the members of "Homura", in addition to the main members, also seemed to be still fighting.

"I'm Dewa, B5 on standby, OK!"

"This is Eric, B6 on standby, OK!"

"This is Fujishima, B7 on standby, OK!"

Images and sounds were then transmitted from the seventh underground floor. They were still in combat, but seemed to have reached a position. The plan is progressing without problems.

When she silently opened her eyes, Kamamoto was standing next to her, muttering to himself.

"Thanks to the "Blue King" suppressing the top, it seems to be quite possible."

Anna blinked and looked up. When she saw the "Sword of Damocles" floating in the square of blue sky, her face clouded with sadness.

Anna, who is the "Red Queen" and has an extraordinary ability to sense things, she could see that clearly. The sword of the "Blue King" was cracked and damaged to the point that it seemed like it was about to break at any moment.

Soon, that sword will fall. The moment that tip hits the ground, everyone will be trapped. Munakata, Anna, and Hisui Nagare may be safe only with shrines that have the "unchangeable" attribute, but everything else will disappear like garbage.

The sooner that plan can be carried out, the sooner the destruction will be further away. Anna closed her eyes again and focused her attention deeper.

"Also, Izumo and Misaki..."

+++++++++++

Izumo Kusanagi was running in the dark.

It was probably his strategy that there was not a single light on in the long hallway. As far as he knew from the map beforehand, that passage led to the core of the enemy's hideout and was a key point that could be called a death line for them. Gunshots flashed from beyond the pitch darkness, aiming at Kusanagi as he ran.

"Here we go, Kusanagi!"

"I'll kill you right here!"

Thanks to the "Jungle" mask, they were able to accurately target Kusanagi even in the dark. Goggles with built-in night vision function can ensure unilateral visibility, but...

Despite the hail of bullets, Kusanagi still managed to smile.

"Sorry, I'm in a hurry. Please let me in!"

Kusanagi shot multiple fireballs from the Zippo he was holding while he dodged by jumping left and right. The fireball landed where the flash had flashed, dispersing explosive flames. Several members of the "Jungle" clan turned into balls of fire, screaming and rolling, and other members of the clan, their eyes burned by the sudden light of the flames, crouched down holding their faces.

Kusanagi's long legs knocked down the remaining clan members who had been incapacitated. After confirming that nothing was moving, Kusanagi raised his voice.

"Sorry, I'm late! Kusanagi, B8 on standby, OK!"

He then he looked back.

There are the three members of "Hakumaito" who are the key to the plan. Kusanagi was a dispatch and was responsible for transporting them there.

Kusanagi raised the marble slightly and said.

"Well, that's it for me. I can't take you any further from here, but good luck, Shiro-san."

Shiro nodded and looked at Kusanagi with serious eyes.

"Yes. Thank you very much, Kusanagi-san."

"Thank you for the cooperation of the Red Clan."

"See you later, Sunglasses! Make me more pancakes!"

Kusanagi suddenly laughed. He remembered Neko whose mouth was sticky with maple syrup and Anna carefully wiping it away.

To see that ordinary scene again.

"Yes, Neko-chan. When this is over, I will make you a tower of pancakes."

With that, Kusanagi pulled out a flame whip from his Zippo and knocked down the "Jungle" clan members who were trying to come out from below.

+++++++++++

There are two frustrating facts.

One is that no matter what happens, he will never be able to defeat Sukuna Gojou. "Jungle" members differ from other clans in that they concentrate their power in the executive ranks. In addition to his original sense, Sukuna possesses exceptional fighting power due to his extraordinary abilities.

Sukuna, with a dazzling smile on his face, jumped up and swung his scythe.

"Go dead!"

Fushimi quickly backed away and dodged the blow, which was aimed precisely at the back of the head. The sound of electromagnetic electricity burning the air immediately touched his ears. The fear of death momentarily crossed his mind and he began to neglect his steps. He made a mistake when landing and fell.

Sukuna carried a scythe on his shoulder and laughed at Fushimi's misfortune.

"Hahaha! That's it. You have to earn experience points before challenging the final dungeon. I can't let you return to the save point now!"

Fushimi half lifted his body and looked at Sukuna.

"Shut up, gamer boy... Pressing the off button won't save you, when it comes down to it..."

Sukuna's eyes narrowed. Contrary to his relaxed demeanor, he doesn't feel like he has the slightest chance. Fushimi exclaimed, holding his tongue.

"There is a time when we have to fight at a level where we cannot win at all!"

At the same time, he turned his body and threw the throwing knife that he had hidden in his hand at Sukuna...

The knife ricocheted and cut Fushimi's thigh.

"Gah!"

Sukuna, who wielded the scythe with ease and rested it on his shoulder again, huffed in exasperation.

"Is that it? No matter how hard you try, I don't think you can change this reality."

As he held back the intense pain, Fushimi clicked his tongue and said:

"I guess I've started lecturing the kids about reality... It's a totally annoying reality... It's not worth the salary with these dangerous living conditions, this... Really, why am I doing this kind of work? I..."

Back then, when Munakata told him about this mission, he might have refused.

This mission was very dangerous. Leave "Scepter 4" and infiltrate the enemy, and if the situation arises, work from within. No one would trust Fushimi, who was originally an enemy, and if Hisui Nagare could find a connection with "Scepter 4", he would definitely have gotten rid of him.

Carefully, but definitely. Even if you do your best, in the end, at the time of crafting, they will catch your tail. It was an almost suicidal strategy, based on self-sacrifice.

However, why did he accept it?

That's another frustrating fact.

"Then it's almost game over."

Sukuna wielded his scythe. Fushimi's face distorted as he looked at the green electromagnetic blade.

(There's no way he's coming.)

Unable to move, in his final moments, Fushimi murmured something into his mouth.

"Saruhiko!"

He heard that voice.

Fushimi looked up and searched for the owner of the voice. The voice echoed in the underground space and he didn't know where it came from. However, Fushimi knew exactly who he was.

"Misaki..."

"Where are you, Saruhiko?"

Although he couldn't see it, he could clearly imagine his face. With a mix of anger and impatience on his face, he searched everywhere while he raced on his skateboard. Fushimi let out a small laugh as he imagined that.

"Hey... that idiot... seriously... he chased me here..."

+++++++++++

There are two frustrating facts.

One, of course, is against Saruhiko Fushimi. Although he knew that this was the place where he would definitely die, and although he knew that he would be stigmatized as a traitor, he went alone without telling anyone. That was so infuriating that he couldn't forgive him.

"Saruhiko!"

Yata was running freely underground while shouting the idiot's name. There was no way the "Jungle" clansmen defending the area would miss that, and they positioned their huge weapons towards Yata. However, Yata didn't notice either. Overcome with anger, he twisted his face and spat.

"Idiot, you're trying to be cool on your own! If you die without telling me, I won't forgive you!"

The Green Clan members fired rockets all at once. A direct hit would have been an exploding bullet that would have killed him instantly. However, Yata crouched and jumped, becoming semi-conscious. Several explosions went off behind him and the shock waves knocked Yata back, but even these were not enough to catch Yata's attention.

It is another type of anger that is directed towards oneself.

Why didn't he think more carefully about the words Fushimi threw at him that dawn? Follow me, Fushimi said. In that case, he should have pursued him with all his might.

If he can't reach Fushimi, he will be scarred for life.

Gritting his teeth so hard that he made a sound, Yata desperately looked around him.

He understood it.

On the other side of the wall that had collapsed due to the caster's attack, was Fushimi lying on the ground and Sukuna wielding a scythe.

"Saru!"

At that moment, Yata became a creature whose only goal was to move forward. The skateboard wheels roared, turning into a ring of fire and generating explosive acceleration. He swung the staff wildly and bounced off the scythe that had been lowered toward him.

As he continued passing, Yata made a U-turn and crashed into Sukuna again. Sukuna didn't seem afraid; in fact, he was even smiling as he screamed.

"So you're changing players? I don't really care about this, come on!"

The rod and the scythe intertwined again. Red and green, a two-color supernatural ability exploded, dyeing the field of vision with mottled colors.

"......!"

Yata's face was distorted and he was barely able to block Sukuna's attack with the staff he held with only one hand. His muscles swelled to the point of bursting and he felt like his wrist was about to break. Still, he couldn't use both hands because his left hand was extended on the ground.

His hand grabbed the back of Fushimi's neck.

The skateboard accelerated again, forcing the two to leave the scene. Sukuna, who was left alone, let out an angry roar.

"Damn it! You're not going to escape!"

Yata didn't even look back. Feeling a tingle of killing intent on his back, he put all of his supernatural powers into the skateboard and accelerated it repeatedly. Fushimi, who was carried on his shoulder, was as limp as a corpse. Yata shouted, feeling something cold run down his back.

"Saruhiko! Are you alive?!"

Fushimi didn't respond.

Yata's next breath was shaky. He called again and again.

"Hey...! Saru!"

"You're late..."

Although his voice was dry and weak, Fushimi responded with certainty.

"And you call yourself the vanguard of your clan? It makes me laugh..."

"Shut up...!"

Yata looked ahead, almost reacting as usual to the same hate speech.

The skateboard was sliding through the underground passage. For a while, only the sound of wheels turning echoed between them. Perhaps because he had been searching so frantically, Yata didn't even know where he was. However, he muttered...

"Why did you not tell me?"

Fushimi laughed lightly at that question.

"There's no way I'm going to tell you about a top-secret mission, idiot. You should figure it out."

"There's no way I can tell from that! Why have you always been like this? That's right, I'm an idiot. That's why I won't understand unless you talk to me properly."

"Would you have understood if I had told you?"

"Say it in a way I understand. Just say it until I understand. If you had died without me being able to hear anything... I would have always thought you were a traitor!"

After a moment of silence, Fushimi looked up.

"I am a traitor."

Yata, who was only looking forward, couldn't tell what kind of expression Fushimi was making. Still, Yata shook his head vigorously.

"That's not true! Just as I would risk my life for Mikoto-san and Anna, you did all this for the "Blue King"... That means that, for you, the "Blue King" has been your King all this time!''

"......"

Yata took a deep breath and spoke clearly.

"I... think Saruhiko Fushimi from "Scepter 4" is amazing."

Fushimi stirred slightly. He doesn't know if he laughed or was surprised. Either one was fine. Whether his words were true or not was beyond Yata's consideration.

He only said what he feels and what he thinks.

At that moment, Yata suddenly felt something strange under his feet.

He controlled the skateboard and turn using what can only be described as intuition. Almost at the same time, the ground in front of him was cut into a cross shape and a small figure jumped out from within.

"Haha!"

Sukuna turned the scythe on him while making an amused voice. Yata clicked his tongue as he placed Fushimi's still limp body on his skateboard and kicked towards Sukuna.

The rod almost blocked the tip of the scythe as it descended.

Still maintaining the momentum of the shot, Sukuna smiled as he carried the scythe and spun as if dancing.

"Saruhiko is on the verge of death. You are about to reach the yellow indicator. What should we do?"

Yata readied his staff and turned to Sukuna. He was angry at the brat in front of him who treated life and death like a game.

"If you want to play that kind of game, do it with other people besides us. Hey, do you have any friends to play with?"

Suddenly, the smile disappeared from Sukuna's mouth.

An intense light shone in his eyes as he slowly approached, twirling his scythe.

"I've always played alone. It's 100 times better to be alone than to be held down by a weaker person. I can do it alone."

Killing intent filled Sukuna's body. Yata looked at him in silence.

"The only interesting person is Nagare. So anyone who gets in his way... I'll crush him!"

Screaming, Sukuna kicked the ground.

From left to right. It was an extremely fast movement that left an afterimage in his field of vision. For a moment, Yata completely lost sight of Sukuna. A cold premonition of death ran through his neck.

"Misaki!"

The knife was thrown in a straight line and accurately hit Sukuna's body.

"Damn!"

Sukuna had to use the scythe that was supposed to decapitate Yata as a defense against the knife. He bounced, spin in the air and land. Yata, who narrowly escaped death, muttered as he pointed the tip of his staff at Sukuna again.

"So "Jungle" was your escape. You look like us in the past. But... go home."

Sukuna's face contorted in anger and irritation.

"How bossy! Even if you two get together, I'm stronger than you!"

Sukuna began to move at high speed again. A bright green electromagnetic blade left a trail like a meteor and cut its way into the underground darkness.

Yata's eyes can't catch it. He would have just stood there like a stick, waiting to be cut down.

If he was the only one, it would have happened.

"Assume that again!"

As if in response to Yata's voice, multiple knives were thrown from behind.

The knife was thrown directly, grazing his side, shoulder and ear, and he was covered in a blue glow. Without missing a beat, it passed through the green beam and stopped its movement. As Sukuna's eyes widened in shock, Yata rushed forward.

The tip of the stick pierced Sukuna's abdomen.

"......!"

In silent agony, Sukuna's small body was sent flying and fell to the ground. As he coughed violently, Sukuna looked at Yata and Fushimi with the gaze of a demon.

Yata said with a slight smile as he held the staff.

"It's like old times, fighting hand to hand with you."

Fushimi said hoarsely as he stood up.

"...It's not the same as it was back then."

"That's right... it's not the same."

Suddenly laughing, Yata held his staff elegantly and declared happily.

"Misaki Yata, member of the Red Clan, and..."

There was a pause of a few seconds after he took a firm stance. Sukuna, who was half sitting on the ground, looked at Yata as if he didn't understand what he was saying.

Yata instinctively looked at Fushimi and shouted.

"Say it! Say it!"

Fushimi clicked his tongue and said with a voice that sounded like he really hated it.

"...The member of the Blue Clan, Saruhiko Fushimi."

Still, Yata was satisfied. They shouted in unison and at the same time.

"We will be your opponents!"

"This...!"

Sukuna's frustration seemed to have reached its peak. He used only the springs of his body to rise and attack while he swung his scythe.

"Older generations can't be cool!"

Yata held his staff horizontally and blocked the blow. At the same time, Sukuna's toe flew towards him and he twisted his neck to avoid it.

"This is work. And I can't waste time playing with a child!"

As Fushimi screamed, more knives flew. Sukuna clicked his tongue and swung his scythe, knocking down all the knives. He continued to kick the ground and tried to distance himself from Yata.

Yata won't allow that. He ran out himself and began to close the distance with Sukuna. Passing by the scythe that was being wielded in confusion, the protruding staff bit into Sukuna's stomach.

"Grr...!"

"What's the problem? You're slowing down!"

Sukuna gritted his teeth and swung the sickle wildly at him. The room for maneuver he had before was nowhere to be found. Anger, impatience, humiliation, and fear of defeat enveloped Sukuna's body, making him wither. Sukuna was now forced into a defensive stance.

(We can win!)

Yata muttered that to himself as he calmly inserted the rod. The current Saruhiko and Yaka can defeat that guy. Although red and blue were different colors, they were able to recognize that they were members of a clan fighting for their "King."

With that thought in mind, just as he was about to take another step, the support from behind suddenly stopped.

"What?!"

When he turned around, he saw Fushimi crouching down. The knife he dropped lay at his feet. The damage Sukuna inflicted on him earlier was eating away at his body.

Sukuna did not waste that momentary opportunity. He crouched down and quickly walked past Yata, turning on his electromagnetic sickle and attempting to cut off Fushimi's head.

"If you're going to die, get off the stage!"

"Saruhiko!"

Yata threw his staff and tried his best to stop Sukuna. He couldn't let Fushimi fall there. If that were the case, it wouldn't make sense to throw everything away and go this far.

But...

(I can't make it on time!)

Yata's face distorted at Sukuna's demon-like speed. A shiver ran down his spine as he imagined Sukuna's sickle piercing Fushimi's throat...

Sukuna stopped moving.

"What...?!"

Fushimi's knife was stuck in his shoulder.

"...Ha. Did you let your guard down?"

Pretending that he was running out of energy... no, he was probably running out of energy. However, with the last of his strength, Fushimi sent the hidden knife flying. He hit Sukuna smoothly, imprinting his movements on the spot.

If Fushimi had been alone, it would have been nothing more than a struggle. He is not a Sukuna who will stop when a knife is stuck in him. He should have been beheaded just like that.

But every second the knife gained had infinite value.

"Uraaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!"

Yata's fist hit Sukuna's cheekbone. A powerful punch using the red supernatural power sent Sukuna's small body flying like a piece of paper. Flying through the air as he spun, Sukuna was sucked into the hole he had made in the ground.

+++++++++++

He dragged his body closer to the hole.

Not only had he run out of knives, but he also ran out of strength to throw them. His physical strength and supernatural abilities are empty, and if Sukuna returns, there will be nothing Fushimi can do.

Still, Fushimi stood next to Yata and looked towards the bottom of the hole.

The darkness was so deep that he couldn't even hear Sukuna's voice, let alone see him.

Either he died or fell into an abyss of no return. Either one was fine. For now, the threat has disappeared.

Taking a deep breath, Fushimi spoke in an exhausted voice.

"...Go home, huh? You're being very bossy and lecturing a child. Are you an adult?"

Yata crouched on the spot and looked at Fushimi with a bitter expression on his face.

"You're loud. I don't know if I'm an adult or not, but I'm not a child anymore."

Fushimi laughed lightly. That's how it is. He has never heard of a child risking his life because he is too busy with work.

At this moment, a muffled voice rang out from where Yata was sitting.

"Yata-san...! Yata-san! Can you hear me? Where are you now?!"

Yata took out a red marble from his pocket and responded.

"Hey, Kamamoto. Saruhiko is safe. It's not like we're safe, though."

"I see! Anna, Fushimi is safe! Please hurry up, Yata-san, it won't be completed unless you go to your floor!"

"...Ah. I understand."

Then, Yata looked at Fushimi.

"Hmph.", he huffed. He didn't want to help or be a burden. Without making eye contact, Fushimi said:

"Go. Don't count me in on this. As expected, it's unpaid overtime."

"But you..."

Yata must be aware that Fushimi's power is running out. Those words that seemed loving, but are now unpopular. Fushimi looked at Yata.

"What is the most important?"

After a short pause, Yata answered clearly.

"...It's Anna."

"Then go quickly. You do your job. I can escape on my own."

Yata pursed his lips, turned on his heel and started walking.

Fushimi called from behind.

"Misaki."

After Yata turned around and stuttered for a moment, Fushimi muttered:

"...I'll think of a way to speak so that even idiots can understand."

As expected, Yata was an idiot and it took him several seconds to absorb the meaning of his words.

A smile slowly appeared on his face. A carefree smile like the one he used to have when he called Fushimi a friend. With that stupid look on his face, Yata clenched his fists.

"Hey! Let's talk later!"

Fushimi waved his hand as if to throw him out. Yata turned his back on him again and rode the skateboard away from him.

After his back disappeared into the depths of the hallway, Fushimi lowered his head in shock.

Even when he searched his pockets, he still couldn't find a single dark weapon.

"I used all my knives, huh..."

Just when he thought he should retrieve the knife that Sukuna had knocked down, he heard multiple footsteps.

"There he is! Here he is!"

"Don't let the intruder escape!"

The members of "Jungle". If they are defending their base of operations, they must be at least a U-Rank. It may not be the case in normal times, but now Fushimi is not an opponent who can resist. He knew that if he didn't hide quickly, they would certainly attack him.

Still, his body did not move.

Far from hiding, he couldn't move a single finger. It seems like he was more tired than he thought. Fushimi took a deep breath and whispered to himself.

"He is simple, stupid, he doesn't think, and although he doesn't understand anything... sometimes he suddenly comes up with a 100-point answer..."

He himself wondered why he accepted that job. It is a truly suicidal act to infiltrate the enemy's pockets alone, and if an emergency arises, even if it means sacrificing himself, it will benefit "Scepter 4". He didn't have that much loyalty towards Munakata or "Scepter 4". It's not like he lives in a flower garden where he would sacrifice his life for something like "order."

So why is he trying to risk his life here and now?

(That means that, for you, the "Blue King" has been your King this entire time!)

Remembering Yata's words, Fushimi looked up at the sky.

"Well, I'm risking my life, although it's not worth it..."

"Jungle". The clansmen camped in the distance. Out of the corner of his eye, he could see the muzzle of a gun pointed at him. Still, Fushimi did not react and silently tried to close his eyes.

A head appeared on the ground beneath his feet.

Fushimi stiffened and widened his eyes.

It was Hirasaka. When she reached his shoulders, she reached out and grabbed Fushimi's ankles. Hirasaka gave the bare minimum of explanation to Fushimi, who blinked repeatedly.

"An escape route has been secured."

"...I don't remember asking for your help."

"The compensation has already been paid by your boss."

Fushimi suddenly let out a laugh at the simple and clear answer, and then was dragged into the darkness below.

+++++++++++

Kuro, Shiro and Neko run through the darkness of the depths of the earth.

The impact and sounds of battle that echoed from above were proof that "Homura" was clearing the way for them. They believed in them, "Hakumaito" and in the unwavering support of the "Silver King". To respond to that demand, they must take positions as quickly as possible.

Even if they didn't put it into words, it was a feeling that the three of them had in common. As if breaking through the darkness, their running speed increased even more.

Suddenly, their field of vision opened.

"It's here?"

Everyone stopped and looked around cautiously.

It was a space filled with white light, in contrast to the dark path they had just passed. The high ceilings are supported by glass walls and concrete reinforcements.

A cheerful voice echoed from the catwalk near the ceiling.

"White teeth are the key to illuminating the depths of the earth."

He remembered that voice and also that phrase.

The man, Mishakuji Yukari, who was sitting elegantly on the catwalk, smiled lightly at Kuro and the others, and then landed on the ground.

"You understand, right? I won't let you go any further than this. I will do everything in my power to prevent it."

Of course, Kuro knew that.

"Rurururururu... Shhh!"

Neko made a threatening sound like a cat. With that in mind, Kuro stepped forward.

"Mishakuji Yukari, this match will be one on one."

"Kuro...?!"

Looking back at the confused Shiro, Kuro said in a calm tone:

"You guys keep going. I have to defeat this person by myself. I just want you to listen to my selfishness."

Yes. That's selfish.

Siblings. A man who pointed his sword towards Miwa. Through countless practices and various meetings, Kuro has never been able to defeat Mishakuji. He is the strongest swordsman, far surpassing himself, both in flower and fruit. That's Mishakuji Yukari.

He wanted to beat that man.

It is never a good cause. It could simply be Kuro's wish.

But... if he doesn't do that, Kuro won't be able to advance at all from now on.

Shiro's confusion quickly turned into a helpless smile.

"This is the first time I've heard you say something selfish."

"I'm sorry."

"Fine. But in exchange, you must win properly and return."

In response, a smile appeared on Kuro's lips.

"Yes."

"That spirit is good, but..."

As if he was going to pour some water on him, Mishakuji brought out "Ayamachi".

"Kuro-chan. If you don't defeat me, I will immediately chase after your "King", do you understand?"

Kuro faced Mishakuji and silently held "Kotowari".

Defeating Mishakuji means protecting his "King". With that firmly etched in his heart, Kuro inhaled and exhaled silently.

Two disciples of the Miwa Meishin style. They simply exchanged clear glances, mirroring each other's images on the other side of the point.

[ridiasfangirlings]

Yata and Fushimi started dating but haven't told anybody else yet but are planning to do so cause the others are their friends and they can't really hide it from them forever. Yata has to tell Homra while Fushimi has to inform s4 (even if he doesn't know why cause it's none of their business).

To which everyone responds ‘Yeah, we knew that already’ XD Imagine Yata being all nervous about telling Homra and Fushimi just gives him this flat look because even he is aware at this point that like everyone knows about them. Yata’s still adamant that they have to tell their clans, Fushimi argues that his subordinates (and superiors, for that matter) are so nosy they already know and anyway it’s none of anyone’s business. Yata’s like but they’re our friends right — Fushimi snorts at that and Yata’s like they’re your friends idiot — we should tell our friends about our relationship. He says he’ll tell Homra if Fushimi will tell S4, Fushimi sighs all fine, probably already dreading how Captain will want to celebrate the important milestone of Fushimi having a boyfriend.

As expected when Yata tells Homra they pretty much to a man are like ‘yeah, we knew. Everyone knew.’ Yata’s all come on you couldn’t all know and Chitose’s like you’ve literally been making eyes at him since you guys were middle school brats. Yata’s like I was not and Dewa agrees with Chitose on this, it was obvious to everyone from the start that Yata had it bad for Fushimi. Kusanagi feels a little bad for Yata and is like now boys keep it down, offering to pour Yata a drink to congratulate him. Yata brightens and thanks him (and then he’s like ‘you didn’t know, right Kusanagi-san?’ and Kusanagi decides to suddenly be very invested in cleaning a glass). Anna tugs on Yata’s shirt and sincerely congratulates him, saying she’s glad he and Saruhiko are happy together now. Yata’s pretty pleased about that but then imagine he’s about to ask if she knew and Anna just holds a marble up to her eye, Yata sighs instead like right okay I should’ve expected that. 

Meanwhile Fushimi probably just dashes off a group text or something, he doesn’t want to make a whole announcement. Oh maybe he’s typing up a mass email when Munakata comes by and looks at his screen, wondering if Fushimi-kun has something he would like to share with the class office. Fushimi flatly says ‘no’ and Munakata ignores him, instead clapping his hands together and gathering the special forces squad because it seems Fushimi has something to say. Everyone comes clambering over all oh what is it did you need help for something Fushimi-san. Fushimi is getting increasingly more annoyed as everyone surrounds him, radiating nothing but helpfulness and goodwill, and finally he grits out that stupid Misaki just wanted him to tell everyone that they were dating. Naturally everyone is so pleased for him (well, Hidaka and Akiyama are maybe a little bummed, but they’ll be happy for Fushimi’s sake). Hidaka suggests they all go out drinking to celebrate, forgetting that Munakata and Awashima are there until Munakata chuckles and pushes up his glasses all ‘excellent idea.’ Fushimi tries to protest as Munakata asks Awashima to schedule them all an evening at the bar, just steamrolling over Fushimi’s protests because of course this is a time for celebration and friendly bonding. Fushimi quietly vows that Misaki will pay for making him do this.

[incorrectkprojectquotes]

Mikoto: It's pretty cold outside. Wanna hold hands? We should stay close.

Totsuka, blushing: OK!

Izumo: It's fucking summer.