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Her conception was an atrocity. Two beings of separate worlds coalesced, creating an entirely new compound. A girl thats could not be deemed as an element. She was not pure, she was a phenomenon. Intriguing but not quite excepted.Her father, a man unknown but of obvious Japanese roots, had found himself in ties with a white man. The man brought with him a foreign woman; exotic. Skin pigmented deeply with the browns of the earth, her lips round and plump. Her body was a marvel of buxom, her bottom matched in largeness.She was sexualized, her purity was snatched away and awarded to a man who paid the most. Others followed, paying to indulge in a woman of exotic roots. With this lust came a child.Born of brown skin and round eyes, came a female. Sleepy and chunky, a ball of joy. Vulnerable to the eyes of the ignorant. The people of Japan closed their gates for a reason. To witness a being of foreign land would be jarring, regardless of her also being one of their own. Even if it was only half.By the age of 1 the child had been shipped off, sold to a man named Sazaiki Ren. He raised the girl with firmness. A father daughter dynamic was nonexistent between the two. Her job was to sort his beans, sift his grain, and she would be provided shelter. A proper name was never provided for the girl, he instead called her Azuki.Azuki prepared the beans for the market, while Mr Sazaiki sold them. Her purpose was merely to serve him, so, he named her after his line of work.But, he was tough, any small mistake preformed by the girl would lead to consequences. Having to sleep in the snow, no food for days, and even having to sleep in the coal room next to the blazing fire.One gloomy afternoon she was denied entry into the house until she had picked three baskets full of beans. Her objective was completed, her journey from the crops began and she made it home.Upon her return she was met with a ball of fury. Her soaked clothes tracked up the flooring, the beans were soggy from the downpour. The objective given by the man was nearly impossible. To come home from the rain dry, while also having to carry three baskets of beans home, dry also, was impossible.To Mr. Saizai this was just another reason for him to unleash his hate. Built up emotions from being a mere farmer with no power caused him to project. Slapping the girl around, calling her useless.His spew of insults only drove the girl further into solemn. According to him, being a demon and a woman was sinful, regardless of it being out of her control. Azuki resorted to formality. Only speaking when spoken to, listening rather than talking.In order to broaden her knowledge she needed to be open minded, unlike her caretaker. Ignorance and foolish anger were pointless in her eyes.This year was different than no other. Her birthday was in spring, the blooming flowers of April always reminded her of the fact that she was born. Her conception was unholy, and to bring an unholy creature to consciousness was sinful. She hated her birthday, it was just another reminder that she didn't belong here.The beauty of spring was not something she deserved to witness, let alone be born during. But, it was the perfect time to plan an escape. The April showers provided an opportunity to become undetectable. Whatever foot prints or attestation of her get away would soon be washed away, buried with her past.The night of her 13th birthday, she was gone. The night was chaotic, yet, the sour smell of wet grass reminded her that she was free. The shackles of a former home were unlocked, allowing her to bloom.Coming across a small village named Komaha, according to the big wooden board placed in the entrance, she invited herself in. Her veiling cloak hid her appearance from the wandering eye. She hid her hands with gloves, and covered her legs in masculine clothes.This was obviously not a place visited by travelers, no hotels nor shelters resided in the area. Leaving Azuki to live in the woods, roaming around in her free time and taking in the scenery.For a few months she observed a wooden home. People would come and go, only sometimes leaving with a sword. She had assumed the place belonged to a black smith. A young boy would come out every night no matter sleet or snow, and practice with a sword crafted of branches.The mind and body is a fortress. Azuki had already somewhat learned the way of her mind. Now it was time for her body. She admired the boys drive to master the sword. And she wanted to be taught, she knew little of self defense, and it would be something she needed to live alone as a woman. Even if her womanhood wasn't clear the masses.
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Azuki was fond of the twilight. The time of the day where the sun loses its shine, dimming the atmosphere. The semi-darkness was the perfect time to roam, her skin blended in perfectly.She lurks in the shadow, wedged between the brush and the sky, out in the open yet perfectly hidden. Wandering away from home she found herself back here, before a home with a request. A random request considering she doesn't know the stranger at all.The boy emerged from the two wooden doors. Azuki went unnoticed to the male infront of her, watching as he thrust and shifted the blade. His movements were fluid but he was choppy and hesitant; novice level performance. She emerged from between the trees, walking to the gate she waited for the right opportunity to ask her question.He was beginning to falter, half executing movements as the sweat tickled his back js and moistened his shirt. Seeing as the boy sat in the grass resting from training, she observed him.His hands were big yet slender, his bare feet unusually small for a male. His nose held a natural blush, his skin pale, and his eyes...blue. They were blue, vibrant and new, she'd never experienced another different person. This made her even more curious.As he sat on the ground, Azuki lowered her voice, adding into her boyish facade and grabbed his attention."Hey, you." She rasped.Startled, he jumped up quickly avoiding eye contact, even though the hood resting over her face cast darkness. Her eyes weren't visible and neither was her hair; undetectable, as she wanted."Teach me." She said, leaving her statement up for interpretation for the boy. She knew her demand was vague, she did it on purpose as she's not the type to get on her knees and beg— she'd done that enough."What?" He was obviously a bit lost."Teach me your way. The way of your blade." Azuki replied pointing down at the fake sword. It was carved out of a tree branch."You want me to teach you?" The boy questioned, unsure if the person before him was being legit. Komaha children and adults were always alienating the boy, seeing someone come up to him and strike conversation was jarring. It was even more jarring since she not only was speaking to him but asking for something."Yes, I want you to teach me.""'I've barely gotten the hang of it myself.""Then we will learn together." She reached out to shake his hand, "Azuki." She could tell he wasn't one hundred percent confident in his skills. In her eyes, this was not a problem."I'm Mizu." He returned the gesture.Looking back at his sword-father, he felt a tinge of guilt in his heart. He knew the man would disapprove. Mizu has yet to master the process of creating a blade. Let alone how to wield it. Taking on a responsibility like this would be foolish, yet, here he stood toe to toe with his new training buddy. A few weeks of practice can make a big difference. Azuki now had some experience with sword fighting. She had never held or been near a real sword, yet.Waiting patiently outside Mizu's home, Azuki was pulled from her thoughts as the boy strolled to her casually, two makeshift swords in his grasp. They greeted each other and readied themselves. Handing her one, they began their duel.Mizu made the first move, running toward his partner rapidly. Azuki mirrored his movements, sweeping a foot from underneath the boy, bringing him down.Quickly catching himself before he fell, he moved toward his attacker once again bring the sword down across her chest.The small knobs and lumps decorating the sword snagged her small cloak. The hood once decorating her shoulders, ripped from around neck and head. A cool, unfamiliar breeze caressed her face.The boy took in her appearance for the first time. To Mizu this was still a male, but the softness of 'his' face reminded him too much of his own. A female in disguise as a male, circumstance he found all too familiar.Her brown skin wrinkled with realization as to what had just happened. Her cover was blown, and it was obvious that she was not only a girl, but mixed also.Turning on her heel, she retrieved her hood and left as quickly as possible.She was aware her reaction may have been overly dramatic, the scurrying away with no explanation, but she was embarrassed. Even her new friend being of mixed blood failed to make her feel comfortable about her own mixed blood."Wait." The boy called after her. He started to run after her but was stopped by the feeling of a hand on his shoulder."Leave it." Was all Master Eiji said before retreating back into his home. Mizu could relate to the feeling all too well, in more ways than just 1.He couldn't just leave her, but he would feel even worse going against Eiji's wishes. Following his sword-father back into their shared home, he agreed with himself that he would look later on tonight when Eiji succumbed to slumber. After retreating back to my small cabin, the feeling of dread filled every fiber of my being. This is exactly what I was afraid of. Mizu may not want to spar with me anymore after seeing my face.My skin is not pale at all. It doesn't hold the fluff of the clouds or the silk of the moon exuding its rays. I am the color around it, the hue of the shadow surrounding the moon, just out of reach of being graced with its light.And I know that Mizu is the one person who can understand but he is an inverted mirror of me. Night and day, spring and autumn, almost the same but the contrasts are distinct.I lie restless, the feeling of hard wood beneath my back only made me feel worse. The pit in my chest had yet to subside, and my mind is overwhelmed. Why do I continue to analyze a 'problem' only surface level deep? Am I thinking too much?Standing up I make my way to the water. The coolness was always sharp enough to calm my mind.Undressing, I step in. The liquid engulfed my legs bit by bit until I was fully submerged. Only my head and hair was left above water. My body is cold, but the feeling is too addictive; it gives me a sense of tranquility.I allowed the ocean to take me. The cold pressure calmed my nerves. My mind is blank, and my skin is even colder.Returning back to the surface, I float on my back. The loud sloshing of water filled my ears, deafening me to the woods around me.The moon is beautiful tonight, hypnotizing. Little shimmers of light filled the void above me, drawing me in with amusement. If I could ascend up through the clouds and break through the borders of gravity I would fly to the moon and peck her with adoration. Her love is unconditional to me as my heart overflows and spills over with affection.Turning my back on the moon, I head towards land. A silhouette standing in the sand startles me, I dip down into the water hiding my body.Stepping closer the figure allowed themself to be illuminated by the moon. It was Mizu, looking down on me with an unreadable expression. I could do nothing but stare, getting out of the water wasn't an option. The two stared at one another, their gazes lingering under thick tension. Azuki felt exposed, the water being the only barrier between her body and his eyes."You can come out." He said warmly. "I'll cover my eyes." Turning and shielding his vision from the girls nudity.Reluctantly, she rose from the water, putting her clothes back on. The wetness from her thick hair soaked her shirt."Finished." She said quietly, watching as he met her gaze again. His blue eyes always caught her attention. She could stare at them all day without getting bored. They reminded her of the ocean behind them, something she adored greatly.Not a day went by where she didn't go and lay in the sand, allowing the sound of the water pushing and pulling to serenade her. To lull her, bringing her serenity.Sighing, Azuki sat in the sand, patting the space next to her for Mizu to join her. He did, sitting next to her, he still kept his distance as to not weird her out.No words were spoken, the silence was comforting. He came to look for her, showing his regard for her, herself. This meant he accepted her. Azuki's negative feelings went away, relief washed over body.Lying back in the sand she smiled over at the boy. Her brown eyes brightened, her dimples deepened, showcasing her pearly whites to the boy beside her.A small act of kindness such as this one was a new experience for Azuki. Her life had been full of work, and isolation. To have someone show her actual care and consideration brought her immense joy.Confused, the boy smiled down at her, before lying back in the sand beside her. Her reaction had not been what he was expecting, but he accepted it."So, are we still going to learn together?" She asked."Why would we not?" He asked rhetorically, trying to seem nonchalant, but, the smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth said otherwise.Azuki only smiled in return, gazing back up at the moon above.
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The suns rays shine warmly against my eyelids, causing me to stir, now awake from my slumber. Sand stuck to my skin, it was entangled in my hair also. Taking in my surroundings I notice Mizu still next to me, laid sideways in the sand.Standing up, I dust myself off and reach to wake the boy. He only groaned in return. Reaching up I poke his cheek repeatedly. Annoyed with being bothered he rose, his entire left side covered in sand, even his face.Chuckling at the sight I have to remind him what time it is, "It's far past sunrise. I thought you said Master Eiji liked to have breakfast with the sunrise?"Watching the slow realization set in on the boys face, I laugh, tickled by his shock.He stood up quickly, turning and bolting toward the woods. "I'll see you during the twilight." He yelled without turning around.The sand felt gritty on my skin. Despite how bad I wanted to wash it off now, I had to wait until nightfall. Fisherman are always out during the early mornings, it would be unwise to bathe now if I could be easily spotted.Returning into my home I settle down on the floor. I had no furniture nor a shikibuton to rest on. With a small needle and thread I managed to get ahold of, I began to sew my torn cloak. Considering it only covered my shoulders, neck, and chest it should not take long.I need to go into town and buy some food, the last time I ate was at least 3 days ago. My stomach is letting out constant groans and rumbles due to the lack of food.The dark atmosphere of the cabin made it hard to see. Sitting in the doorway, the light brightens my vision. Now able to actually see the needle and thread I begin sewing, thinking of nothing in particular. I allowed my mind to wander, daydreaming about a better life. ••• Wandering around town I set my eyes on a noodle stand. Conveniently, they gave bowls to go. Walking up to the stand, I rasp out my order, trying to sound as boyish as possible. I reach out a gloved hand to pay, and stand off to the side until the food is ready.Looking around I notice a stand full of ribbons and bows. A hair stand of some sort, it seems they have scissors too. Reaching for my food, I head over purchasing a pair of scissors.I could not live under these layers of clothes forever. Eventually a time will come where I will have to leave these clothes behind.My face and skin will be witnessed by the sun one day. The stars watch me every night, witnessing my brown skin and wild hair. The water gets to touch me, taking me in shamelessly.I receive no judgment from the ocean or moon. I find myself between their push and pull every night, seeking solace.Returning back to my worn down cabin, I indulge in my warm meal. If I snip my hair down, would I appear more masculine? As a man I would be respected more, even if it was only a little. Being brown and a woman would be difficult. But, being brown and a man would make things a bit easier. Even if it was only slight.Finishing my last bite, I gulp down the soup, warming my body even more under the blazing sun. It would be easier to cut while wet, stepping outside toward the water I look around making sure no one was watching.Taking off my hood I dip my hair in the water, my loose curls dripping everywhere as I bring my hair above the water. Walking back into my home, I take off my top.It was now soaked from my hair, and I was left in a thin sleeveless shirt. I sit infront of a small dirty mirror, taking the scissors into my grasp. Starting small I take off the ends.My hair always sat neatly on the back of my head, pulled together in a bun. The thickness of my hair made it hard to manage, and small odd looking lump always showed itself on the back of my hood.Hair that reached mid-back now barely touched my neck. Parting with my hair was not as hard as I thought it would be. I cut even lower, my hair now touched the tips of my ears. The cut was masculine enough to point out the boyish features of mine.A feminine softness still covered my face, this is something I can only hope will go away with age. I could tell my growing chest would be a problem in the future also.Dropping the scissors, I was satisfied with the outcome of my haircut. Noticing that it was well into the twilight, I reach for my top sliding it on before buttoning my hood around my neck. Blowing out my candles I pull up my hood, walking towards Mizu's home. ••• Arriving at Mizu's home, the girl noticed the boy sitting near a stack of wood. Walking through the gate and standing infront of him, they greeted one another before assuming positions, and beginning their friendly duel.The sound of heavy breathing filled the yard, the intense sword fighting called for high agility and hand-eye coordination. Over the time the two improved, not even being able to last more than 30 minutes without becoming tired.Now the pair could go for a few hours, with breaks of course, practicing well into the night. Sometimes, they failed to realize the time until Mizu saw Master Eiji sleeping soundly.Stealing Azuki's earlier move, the boy swiped a foot under her leg, causing her to fall back. And with her tiredness she failed to catch herself, reaching up at the boy and grabbing his shirt hoping she would be able to catch herself.She failed.Falling backward the girl closed her eyes bracing for impact, grunting in pain when she felt the ground beneath her. The feeling of the boy landing directly on her chest caused her to let out a sound. One similar to a cow with a toad lodged in its throat."Ouch." She said opening her eyes.Mizu became flustered noticing he was directly on top of another female. Blushing intensely he pushed himself up sitting back in the grass behind her, apologizing rapidly.The sight caused Azuki to burst out in laughter. Loud and obnoxious, she giggled, sitting up. Her hood failed to keep her head shielded, falling off and downward. The boy had already seen her without her hood before, so, she felt it was pointless to bother with putting it back on."You cut your hair?" He questioned, his fluster was long gone, curiosity took its place."Yup." She said plainly, amused with his reaction."But, why?" Leaning in to get a closer look, reaching, and running his fingers through her silky smooth curls.She smiled at the feeling, it was soothing in a way, "I needed to look like a boy.""It would be impossible to get by in this world without a husband, and it would be even more impossible to find a husband with me being mixed." She said smoothly, instead of being sad she was content with this mentality."Maybe if I come off as a man, I could live freely."Standing, the girl pulled up her hood once more, flashing the boy a dimpled smile. Saying her goodbyes she headed for home, ready to wash the sand and dirt from her body.Strolling through the woods, Azuki took in the cool breeze of the night. Taking off her hood, she decided she should get more comfortable with going without it. The stares and judgmental comments she had gotten from others while under the care of Mr. Saizaiki would not matter now.She would start fresh, not allowing the ignorance of people to reach her head. Stepping past the woodsy border separating the dirt and sand she undressed.Starting with her shoes and pants, unbuttoning her hood and sliding off her shirt. Dipping into the cold water she allowed it engulf her. Opening her eyes underwater she took in the blurred blues, calming her.Returning to the surface she watched the moon, a waxing gibbous. Tonight a sheet of yellow covered the moon, the night around her was darker than normal because of it. This only relaxed her further, feeling safe under the shade of the night.Tomorrow, she will train without her hood. Thats was her new goal, to get used to showing her skin and face. Taking a deep breath she fell below the water once again, wallowing in its welcoming presence.
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It seems time has a knack for passing me by. What once was warm rays and light rain became harsh heat and hot water.The summer is the time to experience. To go out, explore the world around you while the day is young. The only thing to worry about during summer is pesky mosquitos and sun burn.My training with Mizu is paying off, he has adapted his own way of the blade while also managing to guide me to mine. In these few months I feel I have grown tremendously mentally and physically.Mentally my mind is more open, and though this is something I worked for previously I still had things to work out.My blood was my biggest insecurity, it is the reason for my appearance- for the stares that seem to penetrate my skin and burrow into my bones. It is the cause for the curve of my hair and the plump of my lips. Which ties in my physical change also. Something new had wriggled its way into my body and sparked a series of change in within me.My chest appears to curve with a new softness, my hips became rounder and more feminine. Though these are things I knew to come, I still dreaded the day. When I looked in the mirror someone else peered back at me. A face remarkably similar to mine yet harder, more mature; sharper.But with growth comes acceptance.I am human, a girl who has to learn the way of her body and cherish its raw essence of female beauty. And I am a product of two regions colliding into one. The brown skin of a place I only dream of witnessing, and the warm silk skin of the grounds that raise me- I carry both. And I will have to live with it, so I will do so without shame. A familiar head of stark raven hair, brings a smile to my face. The grass beneath my sandals, and the warm smell of sunlight puts me in an even better mood.Since it is summer, and I have been nothing but bored I want to go into town. Not only that but I would like to treat my friend, a reward for his generosity for me.I always hated the feel of my hood cradling my ears in this heat, my hair only warmed my neck further, irritating my senses. Thanks to my impulsive decisions, I no longer have to worry about such a thing anymore. My short hair is convenient, and I have grown to love it.Leaning on the fence, I observe him quietly. He brings the axe up with a grunt, throwing it back down and impaling some wood. Firewood is an important essential for a blacksmith- which is common sense.The small pieces of lumber shaven, and too small for any good use, lay scattered around the severed trunk used for said chopping of wood. Reckoning this meant he almost finished, I watched and waited for him to return the axe back inside.Upon his return, I sung out to him, "Mizu" in a sing song voice, startling him. It is much fun to see him scared, it made him look human. When he gets startled like this his stoic face always drops, a new expression finds itself plastered across his face with each scare; it always makes me laugh.He muttered a few words I didn't hear over my knee weakening laughter. I doubled over, using the fence for support and covered my mouth to try and dial down my cackles."Oh my goodness" i said wiping my tears thinking i was done laughing, "Your fac-" is all I'm able to get out before breaking back out into laughter."Haha, laugh it up." he says, rolling his eyes and crossing his arms."I'm sorry" I say still giggling, "woo, i haven't laughed like that in a long time.""Why are you here anyway?" He steps outside the fence to join me, "It's not where near twilight- it has yet to even hit noon.""I wanna take you out" i reply, looking back up at him, "into to town."His face showed one of obvious confusion, maybe he thought I was trying to court him. Thats not the case at all, "As a treat- to... reward ourselves for all these months of successful training."I watch as he looks down bashfully, a tinge of pink brushed his cheeks, maybe in embarrassment or maybe in shock. Can you blush from shock? At least I believe so.He looks back up at me smiling, "That would be nice.""That settles it then" i turn on my heel and head towards town. "Come on then." I call out not turning to see if he followed or not, i got my answer when i heard rapid and light footsteps lead up to my side.The woods will always be beautiful to me. In big towns, or emperors regions the area is always expected to be spotless. Clear of anything natural or dirty. No leaves, dirt, or anything of that matter. Even strays are killed before being able to roam.In the woods you can be as free as you like. The mud dries without shame as does the leaves fall from the tree. Fauna can live with no fear, an infinite amount of freedom without worry. Especially the flora, flourishing and expanding- the possibility of being chopped or snipped for aesthetic purposes little to none.We're a little more than halfway there now, the trees are becoming sparse; more scattered. It's been quiet, quieter than I'm used to whilst I'm with Mizu."Are you ok?" I shift my body slightly, walking at an angle to give him my attention."Yes" he pauses. "It's just not common for me to go there, not for fun at least."I stay quiet allowing him to continue."I go when i need to, not when i want to. Though, it should be nice for a change every once in a while." "I told you already" the raven haired girl said to her friend crossing her arms and smirking, "whatever you want i will get it." She walked over to examine what was in the blue eyed boys' hand.A ribbon- for whatever reason. She failed to question it with her only focus being to spoil her friend tonight."You want the ribbon?" She looked to him for an answer. He nodded handing if off to her for purchasing, "Then i will get it."Azuki walked over to the wooden counter, placing the small roll of ribbon down followed by a single coin. The man at the counter took it slowly examining the two before him. His face twisted like he had tasted something sour, looking from Azuki's skin and to Mizu's eyes.A grunt followed by a, 'take it and go' left his scrunched up lips. He only cared about the money regardless of it coming from two... unique looking kids.With that Azuki stepped down the two wooden steps as Mizu followed behind her."See, it wasn't that bad.""I guess.""Where to now?" She rested her arm on his shoulder, looking to him for guidance."There." She looked in the direction of his finger, a poorly made stand selling medical supplies. "I need more bandages."She follows him over, handing him a gold coin to pay. The sun was setting, a beautiful orange painted the horizon. Just above it was a dark blue, chasing away the light to bring darkness. Azuki noticed the dark grey clouds shielding the sun, it should rain tonight.Now that she thinks about it, they have been out in town for a long time. Arriving just before noon and still being here as the sun sets.Feeling her companions presence once more, she decides she's ready to return home, especially with the incoming rain."Ready to go?" She asked not waiting for an answer. She grabbed his hand and pulled him along on their newfound journey back into the woods.Nearing the point where she would normally break off from the woods and to the beach she decided to drop Mizu off at his home first.Unaware and satisfied with the day, Azuki failed to noticed her friend suffering in silence.Something had been eating away at Mizu's mind for the month. He wanted to tell his friend about his real sex, and his real background. That he was not a random mixed boy, but a girl- a girl whose father was a filthy white man hidden away somewhere in which he does not belong.Azuki has done more than enough to gain his trust, she even shared some things dear to her that she swore to take to the grave.Mizu admired her, maybe it was a little more than admiration, something deeper and more complex. And after today it got stronger, seeing her show him such affection made him realize something.He was fond of her. Not in the way a friend would like a friend and definitely not in a way a girl would like a girl. He did not necessarily have to tell her all of that though.Deciding to start small, he came to a conclusion to tell her tonight, before their departure.Noticing they were nearing, he mustered up the courage, taking a deep breath and closing his eyes. He was not quite sure of why he was so scared, from what he has seen Azuki is very open minded. She did not even question why he wanted a girls ribbon.He grabbed her arm as they neared his wooden fence, pulling her to face him. The space between them was almost non existent. Azuki was confused, a playful question as to why they have to be so close was locked and loaded, but as she peered at his face she saw something hard behind them- something serious."I have to tell you something." He began, placing his other hand on her other arm. Just as he opened his mouth to speak a familiar voice rung out to them."Mizu? Azuki? Come inside, meet our guest."
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Master Eiji’s yells took the two by surprise as they quickly stepped away from each other. They shared a glance before making their way inside the home. The gloomy atmosphere and the sound of the crackling fire soothed Azuki.As she stepped inside the home she caught sight of a very large man. He was dressed humbly and kneeled in respect before Master Eiji. "Close the doors behind you." His old voice shook even with the calm tone.Azuki grabbed one heavy door and slid it in place, after doing the same with the other she sat behind Eiji and beside Mizu. The two shared yet another glance as they were both quite confused on the random customer."A sword made by your hand is without a price." The large man began, the way he started his sentence did not seem like one of a normal man. His clothes appeared common, the clothes you see any other man in. But the way he began this conversation seemed confident, too confident, the type of confidence a man of arrogance would have."Hmm. Yet there is a price.""Take all I have. Please."A comb, a wallet, a few coins, and a couple of random trinkets were all thrown from his interior breast pocket to the ground."I must have a sword made by your hand.""Hmm.""I am not a swordsman, I bind books. I was made this by... my father.""He was killed by a drunk ronin, who cut my father down for splashing him with his cart.""This ronin is a drunk. For he is skilled and I am not, he will kill me. I know this."But with a sword from you, father, I can take his life as he takes mine. And die avenged.""Hmm" he grunted coming to a stand."Mizu. Come with me. Azuki. Stay here and keep an eye on this man.Staring eye to eye with the man Azuki's mind wandered back her and Mizu's previous conversation. Was she finally going to tell her that she is actually female. It was painfully clear to Azuki, after months of friendship and using each other to pass the time she started to notice things.The way her upper chest would move during certain moments of practice. How sometimes during their random chats her voice would gradually become softer and higher pitched before she realized and deepened it once more.His feet are unusually small for a boy, his fingers are slender and delicate even after his time of becoming a blacksmith. Mizu also lacked an adam's apple. Even though some Japanese men tend to lack one up until their late teenage years, this was just the icing on top that confirmed her theory.Azuki was never going to force the truth out of her for she accepts Mizu the way she is."We will begin now. You can wait outside." Master Eiji says.The man rises from his spot beside the fire and retreats quietly outside. As he left Mizu returned bearing firewood. He placed the wood near the fire and grabbed Azuki by the arm leading her to his room.It was more of a storage area, old hammers and home decoration were scattered everywhere. Dusty white sheets covered majority of the objects, the blue filter from outside painted everything with haze.The two sat before a mirror, facing each other. Azuki remained quiet waiting for Azuki to introduce a conversation."Master Eiji is letting me wield his blade." He said flatly."That's great." She smiled, truly happy for her friend.Mizu never returned the gesture looking from Azuki's eyes and back to ground, drawing in the dust. Of course the raven head noticed this, she feared that prying too much may push him away, still she asked anyway."Is there something else on your mind?"With that Mizu sucked in a deep breath bringing his fingers from the floor and to his lap. Azuki watched silently as he parted his lips to speak yet still not having the words to articulate his emotions. He closed his mouth looking down at his fingers busied by fiddling the loose strings of his shirts.Finally he looked up and placed his hands in Azuki's, "Later, when we have the time I will take you to the water and tell you there."Azuki was nothing short of satisfied. A large dimpled smile stretched across her face, "Ok, Mr. Blue." She said playfully.A nickname she came up with a few months back. Mizu's striking blue eyes and the blue clothes he always wore made the name seem fitting. Even the ribbon she bought him earlier was midnight blue.The door slid open revealing Master Eiji, "Come Mizu, the fire is ready."He helped her up, they held hands all the way to the main room. Azuki broke from her grasp and stepped outside deciding to give the two space while they work.Light drizzled touched her scalp, the curls of her hair twirled even more its thirst now quenched. The beauty and hair trends never works for Azuki so, she always put water in it and hoped for the best.She stood near the firewood, using the small piece of roof jutting out as a shield from the rain. The man trained under the trees, a branch in his hand as a sword. His sword handling was sloppy but his footwork was sharp, he is hiding something.To have such good footwork but not the blade work is backward, he is pretending. Thoughts of seeing how long this would go on for amused Azuki, she grabbed a branch and challenged him.He hopped the gates and laughed, "You challenge me? Come on...." He paused look her up and down, "Why... I can hardly tell if you are a boy or girl." He laughed once more obnoxiously."Come, child."She charged forward with a grunt. He smacked her down with his 'blade', she only got back up and tried again. This time she shifted to the left bringing her branch up and back down but no contact was made as he slapped the branch to the ground with his own.He grabbed her, pulling her close and touching her chest with the tip of his branch, "Dead."His deep voice shook her chest. Laughing again he dropped her, "You have not been roughed up whatsoever. Your skin, is too smooth and your hair too clean, like a woman."'Too clean?' She thought to herself."You boy. Come forward." The man pointed at Mizu with his stick.Azuki went without noticing Mizu's arrival until he pointed it out. She glanced over at him and stood up fixing her Kimono. Mizu took her place getting ready to strike.With his big meaty fingers he motioned Mizu over, soundlessly the boy charged. He attempt fell short as his sword was knocked out of his hand also."Your feet announces your thoughts."Without a word back to him he placed his weapon back in his clutch and began again. This time with more intention behind his movement, still his efforts were in vain.The man strikes Mizu across his face, a deep bleeding gash just above his eyebrow. Azuki ran to her friend's aid placing her hand over his on his face."You are soft." His laughs became more and more obnoxious, "You both are.""You ran to his rescue, you are men act like it."He was cut off by Master Eiji, "Sir, your blade will be presented to you formally in the morn, return then. For now you may leave." The door shut, leaving the three alone again."Sickening." He left to return back to whatever hole he crawled from.
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His pain pains me as if it is my own. Hearing his gasps of pain is almost worse than having to stitch his wounds."If it hurts too much we can always take a break.""No, no, I would much rather get it all done in one go."Without responding I continued, moving as fast as I could without butchering his gash. Silence is something I am absolutely comfortable with, it is something I will forever welcome. And it fills the room, I feel this silence has a mutual like between us."Aren't you going to question me?" I stand corrected."Of what?" I know exactly what he wants me to ask about, though I want him to tell me. He can choose to spread himself open and show me the contents, I want him to choose, not for me to pry him open.Frustrated he grabs his Kimono with both hands pulling back his shirt and exposing his chest.I remain silent, pulling the fabrics closed, "I already knew, Mizu." My hands remain pulled together, the cloths still grasped shut in my fists. I pull my hands back to my lap."Well, why didn't you say anything?" She asks me, her expression laced with many emotions at once."Be calm. Don't frustrate yourself, Mizu. Take me to the water like you said and we'll talk about it." I look her in the eye, she failed to hold the contact."Okay. But first I would like to show you something, a way to hide them. Well, you don't have to hide them, only if you want to. I mean I-""Slow down, I'm listening." I laugh.She reaches to a space beside the mirror pulling out the bandages I bought."I use this, to bind. It hurts. Makes it hard to breathe but I always go to the ocean to soothe it."That makes sense. Sometimes her chest would seem flatter than normal other times it didn't, this really does explain a lot.Maybe I should try it. That man from before called me soft, my short hair and raspy voice was not enough to conceal my identity."Bind me?" I ask for permission, holding my kimono."Alright."With that I pull my arms from the sleeves and shimmy the top down to my waist. I cover my chest a turn around ready for her to begin.The sound of fabric ripping behind me met my ears. She brought the wrap to my back, pressing down on the loose end to prevent it from moving. She brung it around my front from behind me and covered the first strip with another, thickening the layer.She began a new layer this time coming around to the front and making sure it layered correctly. It is tight, very tight. She was right about being unable to breathe correctly."Done." She tossed the used roll to the side.I look in the mirror, my skin above and below the wrap is red. My kimono rubs the outside of the bandages, the feel of it so close yet so far.Looking over I notice Mizu has already begun her own binding. She looks so natural doing it like she has done this a million times before. Tucking and pinning the last bit proves a bit of a challenge for her.She keeps trying to pin it down but loses her grips and messes up the wrap."Here, I'll help." I say grabbing the fabric and pulling it below her shoulder stopping just before going under her arm pit. She sticks the pin in and pulls her kimono back up."Thanks." She smiles and stands reaching out her hand for me to grab. TWILIGHT EVEN THOUGH SHE'S lived in Japan for the entirety of her life, the country's weather never failed to amuse her. How in the middle of August it manages to snow on the mountains surrounding the steadily warm ocean, it won't snow anywhere else during these months, only the mountains.The mountains aren't even as wise and mighty as you think, they're still young and stout, definitely not old enough to break the clouds and catch the snow. Even with the hottest heat of the day traveling into the night, the snow sticks, Azuki aspires to be so unmovable."Azuki?""Hm?""When we grow, will you come with me to find my father?""Of course I will.""But I wish not to find and rekindle. I want to kill him, and the three other men he brung along with him.""Okay.""...""Just okay? You don't think this is wrong.""How could I think it is wrong? It's not my place to decide for you what is wrong or right, you yourself should know. And if you feel this is the path you want to take then so be it.""Do you know which is your father?""No... but that is why I'll kill all of them.""My father had to have been a noble man of sorts. My mother was shipped here from foreign land and kept in one of the white mens palaces. As we know the white men bring riches, any traitor of our land will be blessed with gold for assisting them in their plans.If he is still alive I want to kill him too. Not only because of his lack of loyalty to Japan but for violating my mother." She finally paused, looking from the sand to Mizu, "Have I ever showed you her book?""What book?""My mother left me with nothing but a journal when I was sold off. Inside is a language I can't understand at all, her native tongue. When this is all over I'm going to sail away to her home, no matter how long it takes. With or without you." She looked over at her friend still damp from their time in the water. Sand stuck to their nude bodies as they sat there chatting beneath the silky moonlit skies."If we both manage to make it that far will you come with me?" Azuki looked up at her friend hoping her answer would be something she'd like to hear."Yes."She smiled, happy they could talk to each other like this.Azuki wanted to live at the speed of light, at the speed of a bullet. To live a short eventful life and die a death she feels fit. She wants to fly with nothing weighing her down, not a husband, not a kid, not a lover.It was something she always kept to herself knowing it's quite controversial. She never desired a man, she always dreamt of quite the opposite, still she never felt ashamed. And who she wanted sat before her, with her, beautiful and vulnerable."Azuki?""Hmm?" She looked up at her raven haired friend."You won't leave me, will you?" She reached over, grabbing her hand.She didn't reply, pushing Mizu's hair behind her ear and placing her hand on her cheek. Her skin was soft, smooth and pale, "Why would I?"They peered into each other's eyes, Azuki was comfortable with the intensity of the silence. Mizu failed to keep the contact, stumbling over her words, which was quite out of character for her, as she watched the girl move closer and closer. Azuki's brown and Mizu's blue, a fierce clash.Azuki was used to always being the more playful one with Mizu being more calm and quiet, mysterious if you will. Seeing her like this was amusing, it was new and she loved it.Instead of doing what she so badly wanted to she pressed her forehead into hers and closed her eyes, feeling the warmth of skin touching and basking in the intimacy. She pulled away from Mizu's grip on her hand and placed it on her other cheek, whispering lowly."I will follow you until the ends of the earth, Mizu."
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??? VIOLET.Our first target, a European man by the name of Violet. His first name is unknown by the pair and they didn't plan on going out of their way to figure it out. He's only a puzzle piece of the game they'll receive after his death.One by one these men will be killed and another piece will be connected.Violet is a boisterous man. Everywhere he goes he leaves a sloppy trail, a trail Mizu and her companion stumbled across completely by accident.They didn't know where to start in locating him. So they roamed, three months of nothing but travel. It never got boring since every other day was a new town, new sights. But eventually they grew impatient, they were on a mission yet were getting nowhere.Which led them to rest in a large city by the name of Ouchijuku, which was also a common trade route. People were constantly coming to and from the city, always bustling with life.No matter the background, the wealthy, or humble, anyone was allowed. Even women can pass through without a husband. But with the good comes the bad.Smugglers. AZUKI It's quite beautiful here. The buildings are so high, the streets are full of life. I'm not used to such liveliness, I've always been tucked away somewhere since adolescence.As much as I would like to stay and explore, our objective comes first.Black bleeds into the skies as we stroll, our last resting point was two days back. Rest would do us some good. I look over at Mizu noticing the exhaustion evident on her face. Her eyes are always so vibrant and bright but currently they've dulled, and I hate the see the darkness under her eyes.We already came to an agreement to stop at an adequate point and this city seems perfect. So I follow her lead allowing her to choose a place to stop.In the mean time, I leave her side, looking around. Immediately I make my way over to a noodle shop, the line isn't long and I make sure to take note of the direction Mizu is heading in. I'll get her some food, we'll find an Inn, then be on our way. Sounds like a plan.I walk up to the man waiting until he was finished messing with whatever was under the counter. This shop is set up oddly, the kitchen is completely open to passersby. It's entirely cut off by the counter with the person taking the orders back facing the cook. Pretty neat looking if you ask me."We're only selling soba right now.""That's fine. I need two bowls of that and can you make one bowl soupy?"He didn't reply and instead yelled the order into the kitchen."Wait over there."I turn my back to him and lean against the wall of a building directly next to the shop. Looking down the long road I notice Mizu standing tall above the majority of travelers, she turned the corner nearest to her leaving my sight."Here's your food."He handed me two flimsy bowls crafted from bamboo. These types of bowls are only used for food not eaten at the restaurant, they also leak after a while and I have soup, I need to get where I'm going fast. With a quick 'thanks' I hold one bowl in each hand and walk the road.I make it around the corner, two buildings on each side face each other before coming to an abrupt stop and leading into a trail which then leads into the woods. I look around noticing I'm directly in front of a cozy looking inn. A large window on the door shows a young lazy fiddling with her nails, I assume she is the clerk.A small bells echoes through the entrance as it push the wooden door open, "Hello. Is there any rooms under a Mizu?"She stands and leads me down a long hallway to a flight of stairs. From there she tells me the door should be up and the last on the right.When I finally make it to the door it is unlocked but just to be sure I call out into the room,"Mizu?""In here." This one is the right one.I untie my sandals with one hand, balancing the food in the other.The room is quite small, two pallets sit side by side horizontal to a curtained window. No tub, only a table with two cushions on either side.Mizu is lying silently on the mat furthest from the window. The setting sun still shines through the stormy skies of spring and though she loves the water she hates the rain."Come eat." I place her bowl across from mine. I don't wait for her to come sit before eating. She always eats faster than me anyway, she'll be fine.She sits before me, grabbing the bowl and sniffing the inside. It obviously smelled pretty appealing to her because within the next two minutes she was done and now begging for my food."You done with that?" She asks as I'm actively stuffing my face with noodles."No.""Come on. You don't want that let me have it." She says eying the food."No, Mizu I want my food.""Can I at least have some?" She smirks already knowing I always give in at this point.I only sigh giving her the whole meal instead of only some, she takes it happily but I stand and walk away. What she does with that food is between her and the gods now. After that I lay, just staring out the window and at the water droplets aggressively pounding the glass.My birthday is rolling around and by rolling around I mean tomorrow, I hate my birthday. I never celebrate and no one seems to remember the date not that I'm ever around anyone for them to remember.Mizu always forgets but she's a big dough head so I can't blame her. TWILIGHT Azuki laid awake, the room silent, giving her time to think. Mizu managed to slither her way from her mat and into Azuki's now hugging her tightly and warming the sheets tremendously. If anyone ever needs a human fireplace, send for Mizu.As much as Azuki pretended to hate when Mizu woukd slip under the sheets with her and practically sleep under her, she loved it. She loved the warmth and the flutters in her stomach at the feel of her friends inviting herself into the bed.Still, she was restless. Tossing and turning all night and only stopping in fear of waking up the blue eyed woman behind her. There was always something on her mind, tonight it was nothing negative per se, but she couldn't shake the sour feeling in her belly.The sound of horses clipping and clopping under her window unsettled her even further. Every time the noise would cease it would come right back, starting off distant and far away as they came up the road and around the corner, getting louder as they passed her window, and finally going away and into the woods.She failed to see where they were coming from, for 1 in fear of waking the woman pressed flat against her back, and 2 the window was too high. She could only see into the distance, beautiful reds and blues of tall building scraped the sky while the wet trees swayed violently in the rain.Too focused on trying to ignore why the sound kept passing under her window she didn't notice how much time she'd actually spent zoning out instead of finding the source. Soon she fell asleep, only halfway but she continued on with her day dreams behind her eyelids.Her nerves were so bad even the sound of tree branches hitting each other due to the rain made her ears perk and her eyes shoot open involuntary. She focused on the warm breath fanning her neck, the other human behind her sleeping so peacefully entrusting Azuki enough to let her guard down.Mizu was always acting so tough, always so hard working and hyper focused. Though it was in the name of revenge, she still admired the disguised woman. Her unrelenting drive to achieve what she's been chasing, Azuki only wished Mizu had learned to accept herself fully which no exceptions before going out and killing 4 men in the name of hate.Azuki is afraid that same hate may drive her off the edge and make her reckless, she would wither in sorrow seeing Mizu fall apart. She took a deep breath and slowly let it out before turning in the bed and facing Mizu, caressing her face and studying her features."So beautiful." She whispered and kissed her forehead, smiling.*Clip-Clop*Her smile fell.*Clip-Clop*She began to get frustrated at the noise, why come through here at such an ungodly hour and why so many horses? Azuki was madly confused, anger bubbling up in her chest. Why choose tonight to bring your millions of horses into the woods? Where would you even go? Why why why?*Clip-Clop*She looked at Mizu's peaceful face hoping its serenity would calm her down.*Clip-Clop*It didn't.Azuki had enough, she slipped from underneath the large the blanket and tip toeing to the window. She peered out trying to see below her, when that proved difficult she slid it upwards, slowly and with such delicacy as to not alert anyone below them. She wasn't aware if the people passing though would be alright with other people snooping in their business.It's as if the rain knew she would open her window, it calmed down coming to a drizzle. Little droplets ran down the white walls below the window. She stuck her head out slightly, just enough to see into the street.So many white horses all decorated in violet colored silk which hung from their rear as they trot through the rain. Covered in unfamiliar barding, they kept coming. Upon their backs were Japanese soldiers, some samurai, others in training as Azuki could tell by the way they carried themselves. Timidly, unsure.These horses are not of this land. The horses she was used to were smaller, stout and had more muscly backs as they were farmers horses and had to carry heavy stock.If not farmers horses then a warriors horse, significantly bigger but not as big as these were. They're mighty, beautiful, stark. Their coats were almost hypnotizing, looking angelic and hazy under the downpour. Under different circumstances she would admire the majestic creatures openly but they didn't belong here, and she knew in the back of her mind just who they belonged to."What are you doing? Come back to bed." Mizu's voice rang out to her.Azuki didn't listen and after a while she heard her footsteps get louder and louder until she was looking over her, peering out the window to see what had her so occupied.Something in her clicked, she darted from the window leaving Azuki once more and began to dress. She tied her shoes sloppily at the speed she was going and practically leaped for the door."Mizu wait.""No time.""No listen. This is the 4th time I've heard these people. They all go in the same direction, with the same amount of horses. But they travel in groups they haven't all been going at once. When the next wave comes we wait until they're all in the woods then we'll follow them. Don't rush this, we have time.""Well, how long do they normally take. At least five minutes to pass through but it will be about fifteen until the rest come.""Alright we'll go then?""Yeah."Azuki proceeded to take her time with getting dressed wanting to immediately jump into action after she was ready instead of waiting and sitting with her thoughts until it was time.Just as she finished tying the string of her worn and dingy waraji sandals the trots began again. Mizu headed for the door to wait downstairs when it was time to go. Azuki peered out the window noticing this time there wasn't nearly as many horses as before, and the luggage they carried weren't as heavy looking as the rest. This must've been the last wave she noted as she joined Mizu in looking out of the large glass in the Check-in room."If this is the last of them, then there's no room for failure."Mizu nodded turning her head back to the glass.
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The slaps of hooves trudging on through the mud met Azuki's ears. The squelch and squish made her want to burst her own ear drums, it sounded so... eugh. Still, she ignored it and zoned out thinking of a plan for when they actually make it out of the doors.Even with this specific herd horses having a significantly smaller amount than the last, it was still taking an unbearably long time for them to pass. They couldn't run up to a random horseman and say 'hey, take me to your leader' for thats quite dumb and impatient. Azuki considered herself a decently patient woman but tonight she was so nervy.Her hands buzzed with a mix of emotions, the contents in the back of her mind she still hasn't touched on, and the sudden situation around her just amplified her feelings.It's even slightly past midnight and she still hasn't gotten a 'happy birthday!' from Mizu. She felt childish for never speaking about her emotions with Mizu, still, she always kept everything to herself. This wasn't about her, this about their revenge, not bonding time— at least that's what she keeps telling herself.Azuki was too busy zoning out she hadn't even realized the lack of marching from outside. They finally passed; the last horse rear could be seen by the pair trotting down the trail leading into the woods. Now was their time, while they're not too far away and not too close.Mizu looked over at her friend before walking to the door and opening it slowly. That loud bell from earlier would get them caught so fast they'd get whiplash. Her slender hand pressed against the heavy wooden door as she looked up at the bell making sure it didn't fling wildly on the string and go off.She made it out and held the door exactly where it was as to let her short haired companion out of the door as easily as possible.Azuki wanted to grow her hair once more, she missed the girly feeling of brushing her hair and tying it up before bed so she could wake up all pretty and girlish. No matter how much she tried to normalize it in her mind, she never fully got used to portraying herself as a man. But, this is something she'll delve deeper into later.Wet grass. It stung Azuki's nose sourly. Normally people love the smell of fresh wet grass, the rain washing away all the impurities and leaving the outside to marinate in its drizzle. Azuki hates the smell of wet grass, under it, the mud stuck to her shoes as they slip into the trees.They stopped when the distance got a little too close and started again when the risk of being discovered was low (this went on for quite some time.).Mizu gradually found her place quite a ways away from Azuki. If stealth is what they wanted, being practically on each other's back wouldn't get them that. The rain had yet to return, only a steamy fog seeped through the air causing a muggy aroma. Azuki stayed back, near the caboose of the herd. Mizu traveled to the front and Azuki stood alone.They each assumed their positions instinctively, knowing that it would be better for each of themselves to gather their own intel about the area and the soldiers before them.The soldiers.In any sort of samurai training or anything of that matter it's commonly taught to not talk on the job. Not about what job you're doing, not about where you are going, and not about your boss and his absolutely twisted leading tendencies.That happened to be their mistake— their rookie mistake. Azuki could almost laugh at how easy this mission was going already, she shook those thoughts from her head in fear of jinxing herself.A fairly lanky boy and a heavier looking boy rode directly beside each other, oblivious and care free— obviously, since Azuki was almost directly behind them listening to their conversation."What did you say this bastards name was?" The skinner one queried, scratching his neck and sniffing."Hell if I know. V- Viii. Something with V" he drug out his words trying to think, "Oh! Violet! That's his name. Violet.""Hmm.""What does he want with all of this junk anyway. He's got a shitload of horses out here in the middle of the night, and for what?""Sho... there's no way you haven't heard." The big one said to his friend. Azuki noted that the lanky one's name was Sho."Well... you gonna tell me?""The sudden boom of people in Ouchijuku hasn't been for nothing, man. He has been throwing parties. BIG parties, with all the sake and whores you could ever imagine.""Really? No way." The skinny one laughed."Yes way. And he lives in a huge palace, a European style castle. I've heard you could fit five entire towns in there." He smiled— a big rotten smile. The greed and lack of flicker in his eye was what told Azuki he was a big fat airhead— thinking with the worm between his legs instead of the brain between his ears."In three days time he's going host another. All of his soldiers, including us are invited. Any man of decent status and woman can come. It's gonna be the dirtiest thing ever, I haven't gotten my dick wet in months." The big one just kept going on and on. He put his hands behind his head and leaned on the luggage behind him.Azuki was nothing short of disgusted and with that, she slowed her stride to a stop, letting the men in front of her unknowingly get their distances.She stood there processing their egregious behavior, it was appalling, distasteful. It almost gave her second hand embarrassment, if she ever found herself speaking in such a manner, Mizu had better slap the taste from her mouth, with no remorse.The sun broke through the black ice barrier freezing the sky. And as much as Azuki enjoys the rain, it coming back now annoyed her, tremendously. Now she is wet, irritated and wet. The grass stinks, it is now officially her birthday, and the white man shes been searching for is just out of reach.Even when they make it to the castle, immediately trying to kill him wouldn't be the right move. Things like this can't be rushed, she knows that, but she wants him gone so badly. Her own mental adaptation of his pale face disrupted her spirit. Another one flashed in her mind, one more familiar. Mizu. The rosy blush in her nose and the striking eyes she always looked forward to seeing.Azuki abandoned her spot behind the horses and ran at a medium pace as to catch up with her friend. She was sick of hearing the two men's degrading conversations, besides, there was nothing else she could've possibly got from their conversations except a depleted brain cell. Oh, how I wish this could be over already. There is always more to it, I know that. The simplicity of it all is deceiving and as much as I want to believe this will be over and done with by the end of the day, I know better.I never realized how far we'd come from the Inn until I looked back and was met with nothing but horses and trees. No houses. No farms. No resting stores. We really are in the middle of nowhere.For the past 5(?) or so minutes Ive been jogging in Mizu's direction. It's been clear that this specific herd of horses is smaller than the last but boy oh boy is it still big. Their coats are all the same spotless lily white. Ive been passing them by for so long I'm starting to wonder if I have made any progress what so ever; it feels like I have passed by the same horse a million times.Just as I'm about to stop I catch sight of a familiar figure, standing tall, and as always, dressed in blue. I sigh a low 'thank goodness' and haul ass in her direction. I near her rapidly and just as she notices me I jump on her back, hugging her tightly."I'm so tired. Ive been looking for you for ages.""Get off my back" she whispers bluntly as she shrugs me off, as I am now stood on the ground she never turns around, "Now is not the time to play." She begins her strong stride forward.Well damn.I stand there slightly hurt but not actually caring, Mizu has never been the affectionate type— I mean me neither but I can always make an exception for her. I try not to think about it but the cold rain collides with her cold attitude— I stand here, now moody. She could at least try to be nicer to me on my birthday. I mean come on. So what if I never celebrate, today is still my special day and I'm still going out of my way to please her.Maybe this is a mistake. Maybe this all is a mistake. I know I am nothing short of naive for coming on this trip. I could be nothing extra but help for her. She could leave me behind at anytime. I can only be the one she holds at night— as the burning star slithers through the cloak of the night I am nothing but a partner. An assistant to her plans despite this being a journey of mine too.I can only smell the flowers and allow the rain to fall. I should be grateful to be a second older, my fantasy of 'live fast. die young.' is slipping through my fingers to that of which the sand drinks the ocean.The weight on my angsty heart is lifted as my vision is overcome with greatness. A mighty castle, just as the big boy from earlier had described. I didn't quite believe him at first, rightfully so as he seems to hold a walnut for a brain, but he was right. A vast pond, with beautiful swans— a fountain carved of stone with two nude woman spouting water from their lips.His home is just as boisterous as he. A million windows and balconies with sculptures of foreign beasts upon his rooftops. A mighty door of oak with handles of gold. The healthy green grass held all types of flora, the hues of springtime filled his land.I follow along the rest of the hill, coming to a stop beside Mizu who watched stoically as the men descended the hill. Down and around they went, toward another large building, one for the horses. I look around once more, observing. On the opposite side of the house was another large building, one of which the soldier backing the horses went after they settled their majestic creature inside its stable. An entire house for soldiers. I can only imagine the riches this pale face possesses.His castle is so large it rivals the shoguns. If the two were put side by side... I'm afraid Violets would be bigger by a landslide.One by one the soldiers descended into their own personal palace. Eventually they were all tucked away inside, the horses silent with exhaustion after an entire night of travel. Now is the time to formulate whatever plan we need. And it needs to be complex. I've been so stuck in my own thoughts I failed to notice Mizu buzzing with an emotion unknown to me.I grab her cold hand, it is moist with the morning dew. The sleeve of her haori is wet from the previous rain."Are you alright?" I look up at her with concern, we haven't spoken much since we left. Even before we left the whole day up until she discovered that Inn, we never shared many words. Am I missing something? Why am I so oblivious to the reason for her distance?"I am just fine." She let go of my hand slowly, holding on to my middle and ring finger before letting go. This only confused me further. Now is not the time to understand her odd behavior.She climbs a big tree, and settles down on a fairly large branch before reaching down to grab my hand. With a grunt and the usage of upper body strength I sit beside her. Silent.It is taking her quite a while to speak up, longer than she does when forming plans. Mizu tends to think out loud about these things when she is around me. Things change, I guess."There." She points. Over the bridge leading to the front door there is another door. Tucked away and significantly smaller than the mighty entrance door. Though, it is not a normal sized door, it's still pretty big. Big enough to fit an animal through, like a horse."His horse." She brings her finger back down. It's common sense a mighty man wouldn't keep his war beast stored away with the normal horses. A horse being put away inside the castle would be nearly impossible also. Well, not impossible just absolutely ridiculous, nothing about it sounds casual at all."So we go there first?" I ask to confirm."Yes. We need to get past that guard first."I figured."We can't kill him or knock him out. Then they'll know someone is not on their side which could ruin everything.""So we need a way to draw him away from his position?" I state in the form of a question."Precisely.""We need to get closer." I say jumping down from the tree and heading off into the woods. Going down that trail would be absolutely dumb, so, I'm going around. His castle is sort of sunken, it's set up oddly.The trail from the woods leads down into a parting. On the left and right is land while up directly ahead is a bridge. The bridge connects the land to the castle which is surrounded completely by water. It's almost like one big circle of ground then another large circle of water then another small circle of land which the castle sits upon.On the part which we stand on is elevated above everything, if we walk around to the part on the side of the house, the risk of being caught is low. The only thing that would see us is the horses, and I'm hoping no one is in that castle to peer out of the windows.I make my way down to the pond, no bridge here, so how in the world will I get across? Behind me comes Mizu who pauses for a minute. I watch her watch the water, she jumps on a boulder before jumping to another smaller one. Then, she simply steps off of the rock on the ground. She made it."Your turn." She teases me knowing I'm lacking severely in the balance department. Unfortunately I am clumsy. I put about a million prayers into the universe before I made a leap of faith to the boulder. This next part will have to be quick, if not, I know I will fall. My foot slaps the next rock but instead of my planting my other one down I attempt to place it on the grass. I failed. I could feel my body slipping backward— with a sigh I close my eyes accepting my fate.I feel a warm hand grip me up and yank me forward. I open my eyes and oh my stars I made it. Mizu smirks at my relief, turning on her heel and walking toward the posted up solider.Phew that was a close call.