#disgaea7

Fuji couldn’t necessarily say it was a bad thing. In fact, at times it reminded him of how Yeyasu used to be before the whole…debacle.

Next to him, Yeyasu let out a huff as he idly rubbed his arm. Fuji noted the movement, but had to keep his gaze on their surroundings. After…what, four kidnapping attempts (or was if five?), he needed to be more vigilant that ever. Especially when it was just him and Yeyasu strolling through the streets of Ewwdo.

What happened yesterday could not be repeated.

“Good day, Shogun!”

Fuji could not help but frown at the voice, while Yeyasu in turn immediately placed a smile upon his lips and tilted his head in the direction of the voice. And gave a short wave of his hand in response.

With them now possessing four items of the Purification Ritual, Yeyasu had wanted to head to their next destination as soon as possible. But it was Fuji who insisted that they take the day off. To take time to plan their next move.

The guy initially accepted that. He still had bruises to recover from. But he got annoyed when Fuji also ordered that Yeyasu did nothing in regard to the ceremony or the scroll. He went as far as forbidden him from his research!

He…still didn’t understand why Yeyasu was so insistent on the completion of the ritual. He was almost obsessed about the whole thing. Fuji had asked him numerous times already, but the guy would just deflect or give unsatisfactory answers.

There was something else behind his determination. Fuji just couldn’t figure out what, exactly.

“Good morning, Shogun Yeyasu~!”

Fuji felt his eye twitch at another nameless demon uttering out a far too cheerful salute to their shogun. It appeared that it was pure instinct that prompted Yeyasu to immediately turn toward the voice and idly waved his hand in return. A small gesture of acknowledgement.

Couldn’t they see that the guy was lost to his own thoughts?

Yeyasu suddenly smacked him on the arm with the back of his hand. “Fuji, I’m just taking a stroll through Ewwdo. You don’t need to snarl at everyone who so much looks at me.”

Fuji knew that he wore a scowl. He couldn’t help it. “We’ve been through this. Anyone could be a threat.”

“Right, right.” Yeyasu shook his head lightly in exasperation. “Just don’t attack anyone until you know for sure.”

Fuji snorted. “Just leave the bodyguarding to me. You obviously haven’t a clue that…” he quickly trailed off. Shit, he hadn’t meant to utter that aloud.

The mistake was immediately picked up by Yeyasu, though he chose not to point it out.

“Shogun Yeyasu, you’re looking beautiful today!”

That made Fuji bristle.

Yeyasu, however, placed a well-practiced cheerful smile on his lips and shot a glance in the voice’s direction. “Excuse me? I look beautiful every day!”

He received a few laughs in response from the demons around him. But next to him, Fuji grumbled something under his breath once more. Flirting out in the open like that. With Yeyasu completely oblivious, despite his flirtation back.

Yeyasu must have heard him mumble as he uttered a sigh. “Well, since you’re so on edge, let’s find refuge in a teahouse,” he suggested. “That safe enough for you?”

“Yeah, yeah, make all the remarks you want,” Fuji replied. “You’ll thank me for my protection sooner or later.”

“Oh, of course.”

Yeyasu insisted that he knew of a quaint little teahouse not far from the main strip. A place that was for the locals rather than any visitors or tourists. It should prove to be quiet. Private. For just the two of them.

They found the teahouse easily and just as Yeyasu predicted, it wasn’t overly busy. Only a few patrons and customers loitering about. It took them no time to place their orders before moving to sit down at one of the many tables littering the place.

Fuji immediately took charge in picking a safe location.

He sat them down in a private corner of the teahouse. No one else around. Window on one side of them and a wall on the other. Yeyasu, of course, had his back against the wall to prevent any sneaky back attacks while Fuji sat across from him, his back also against the wall as he kept a firm surveillance on their surroundings.

“We have one more location to go,” Yeyasu began. “Narusawa. The Ice Cave.”

Fuji uttered a sigh as he planted his elbow upon the table and rested his cheek in his hand. “Half the trial will be getting to the place.”

Yeyasu also sighed and folded his hands atop of the small round table between them. “Yeah, probably.”

The ice cave itself was a hassle. But they had to traverse through a forest to even get to the place. Bitter cold, too. He wasn’t aware if there was a known altar inside. Despite his travels, he hadn’t had much to do with the place. Underground locations weren’t exactly his thing.

He could only hope that the Guardian Beast was as reasonable as the one from Arashiyama. And nothing like the dipshit from Yukushima.

He really wish he could hear them. What kind of things were they telling Yeyasu? What was Yeyasu telling them in return? Did they know the truth behind Yeyasu’s determination?

“You know,” Yeyasu began as he tilted his head to the side, “you seem grumpier than usual.”

Fuji snorted. “Grumpy is hardly the right word.”

Yeyasu arched a sceptical eyebrow. “Then what would you use?”

Fuji tapped his fingers against the top of the table. “Frustrated.”

“…About yesterday?” Yeyasu asked quietly.

“Obviously,” Fuji bit out, more harshly than he intended. But that feeling was toward himself and Yeyasu himself didn’t react negatively. The bitterness he felt toward the situation, toward himself was obvious. And intense. “Jigme got you alone yesterday. If he wasn’t so far up his own ass, he could have just whisked you away. Just like that. And there will be nothing I could have done.”

Nothing he could have done…

“Oh…” Yeyasu uttered as his face suddenly paled. Obviously, the idiot hadn’t considered any of that. “Y-yeah, I guess so.”

Honestly, for someone who always shrieked and demanded rescue and protection, he was abysmal at assessing for true, actual danger. And after everything that happened? Still oblivious.

Yeyasu’s gaze unexpectedly shifted to stare at the empty table between them, his fingers twisting around the material of his hoari. He appeared somewhat…hesitant. His lips pressed together in a thin line as he sat silently.

 “Fuji,” Yeyasu finally broke the silence, “he knew about the Purification Ritual.”

Fuji felt his jaw tighten. “What do you mean? What did he know of it?”

Yeyasu’s fidgeting intensified. “He knew that we had already gathered three items. He knew why we were there. But…”

“But?”

With a sign of resignation, Yeyasu finally turned his bright red eyes in his direction. “He said that he wasn’t interested in the items or the scroll.”

“I see.” Fuji had figured as much. “So…he’s still focused on you?”

No surprise. The guy had been in the shadows for countless years and was still obsessed with Yeyasu. Some little ritual wouldn’t be on the guy’s radar. And he wouldn’t give up that easily.

“If he knows of the scroll, then he knows the locations,” Fuji murmured, displeased. “Which mean, he’s going to be at the next one.”

Yeyasu nodded his head, seemingly having reached the same conclusion. “Yeah. He…must have been watching us.”

Another point of frustration. Yeyasu had mentioned before that Jigme was able to look at him through the hollow eyes of the masks. With masks of all types scattered all over the damn place, it was hard to tell which one was thanks to that bastard or was merely a bit of decoration or memorabilia.

Trapesing across the countryside to destroy every single mask they stumbled across was not a possibility.

That bastard…was a slippery one. Staying in the shadows. Attacking from the shadows. Getting others to do the dirty work for him. A coward. Without a damn doubt, the bastard was a coward. Fuji preferred if his enemies would just announce themselves and line up to get their asses whooped.

Fuji was pulled from his frustrated musings when he felt something soft trail over his bicep. He didn’t react, however. It wasn’t a negative touch. Oh, he knew the difference, alright. Harsh, even brutal touches he had endured over the many years of his life. Starting with his father.

But this touch…It was gentle. Something he wasn’t entirely used to.

“You know, your markings really are starting to fade,” Yeyasu suddenly commented quietly, his fingers barely brushing against his skin.

Fuji turned his head to idly cast a gaze over the physical representation of his curse. The deep red colouring marring his arm and half of his chest. He barely paid attention to it, anymore. The blood pooling in the back of his throat was always his main concern.

But as he glanced over the marking, he realised that Yeyasu was right. The bright red had begun to shift into a dull, rusty red. “Yeah, they really are. In time, they made even fade completely.”

Yeyasu uttered another quiet sigh as he pulled his hand back, a look of frustration mingled with determination on his face. “I’m still going to complete the ritual, Fuji.”

Fuji felt his own frustration grow. The tonic and medicine that Yeyasu had crafted up himself, by himself, worked perfectly fine. No side effects. Worked almost immediately. And allowed him several blissful hours without his damn curse.

There was nothing more that needed to be done. Especially not something that required trapesing across primitive wilderness to telepathically speak to some Guardian Beast, and deal with their little trials.

“Why are you so adamant about this?”

“Why are you so against it?” Yeyasu quickly retorted.

Fuji fell silent. He knew that Yeyasu was doing everything for his sake. For him. He just wanted to know why. It wasn’t just for Ao’s sake, like he stated before. That wasn’t the sole reason. The main motivator. He was sure of it.

What he wanted to know more, however, was why Yeyasu looked so damn…sad whenever Fuji asked him why he’s so determined.

Just like the expression Yeyasu wore as he stared at him over the table. It wasn’t a glare or even a pointed stare. Just a…look. Soft, almost withdrawn. A look that…didn’t suit him, honestly. “Fuji, tell me the truth. Why are you against this Purification Ritual?”

Fuji uttered a sigh in frustration as he roughly raked his fingers through his hair. “I’m not against it exactly. It’s just…”

Yeyasu leaned forward slightly in his seat. “What?”

“I’m not used to anyone going to such…extremes for me.”

There, he said it. He was used to doing things on his own. For money. For a lot of money in return. He received some help from Master Higan, but it was mostly left up to his own wit and skill to get through things. To get things.

Fuji pivoted in his seat to stare straight back at Yeyasu. “Now, tell me; why are you so dead-set on this?”

Yeyasu sat silently, his gaze holding his. His expression changed slightly. Ever so slightly. The downturn of his lips, the tension of his jaw, and his eyes misty. As if holding back tears. Something Fuji had witnessed several hundred times before.

But this was different. Somehow.

“…Someone should have tried this sooner.”

That wasn’t the reason. He was still being evasive with him. Why?

“A few have tried to help,” Fuji muttered. “But nothing helped.”

But Yeyasu was the first to give him hope that it was achievable. He created the medicine for him, for Hades’ sake! No one, absolutely no one during his countless years suffering from that damn curse had even come close to achieving everything that Yeyasu had.

Yet, that wasn’t enough. What was driving him? His ego? What did he hope to achieve from it all? There had to be some reward he was hoping to get in return. What was he talking to those Guardian Beasts about?

…Yeyasu was different from him, he supposed. Maybe he didn’t have a motive. Not one that Fuji understood. He was one who had obvious motives, wanting to get something out of everything he did. Money, for the most part.

He just…couldn’t comprehend someone being so innocent.

Like how he imagined Yeyasu to be.

“Ah, I see,” Yeyasu suddenly uttered as he leaned back into his chair and dropped his curled fist into his hand. “You don’t want to be disappointed again.”

Fuji idly scratched his head. “Meh, I guess so.”

“That makes sense,” Yeyasu contained to prattle. “With all my previous failings, it’s no wonder you’re dubious about this.”

Fuji immediately frowned and snapped a sharp gaze in his direction. “That’s not what I said.”

Yeyasu appeared nonchalant, dismissive even, as he continued to disrespect himself. “But it’s true, right? I mean, like, I get it. It’s understandable. I don’t have the best track record. But this is different. I’m definitely going to get it right this time.”

“Why?”

“Why not?”

Fuji felt a vein in his forehead twitch. Damn it, stop being so damn evasive!

“Shogun Yeeeeeyasu, you’re looking stunning today~!”

The vein in Fuji’s forehead threatened to burst when Yeyasu immediately plastered a cheerful smile on his lips and turned his attention toward the one who so arrogantly yelled a greeting. With a frustrated grunt, Fuji slammed his hand atop of the table, startling the idiot across from him.

“Can we have one conversation without someone interrupting?”

“Stop being so prickly,” Yeyasu immediately chided. “I am the shogun, after all.”

A shogun that was the target of a masked asshole. Couldn’t the damn commonfolk stop announcing his presence and location already?!

“Dad! Mom! There you are!”

That voice immediately quelled the silent fury within Fuji and he sat up straight in his seat. A mere second later, his daughter appeared before the table. Happy, cheerful, completely unbothered. “Hm? What’s up, Ao? You didn’t destroy a mochi stall again?”

A pout twisted upon Ao’s lips. “Of course not, Dad. Ao knows not to hit the mochi too hard.”

“That’s great news,” Yeyasu suddenly interjected. “I’m sure the mochi you help make tasted amazing. I’m jealous.”

A precious smile quickly returned to Ao’s lips as she pivoted slightly to give Yeyasu her full attention. She folded her arms behind her back and began to way back and forth on the spot, in a completely sweet and adorable way.

His daughter was so unfairly loveable, it was no wonder he was so protective.

“Ao will make Mom and Dad some mochi, too.”

“That’s a good girl. I look forward to it!”

Fuji could not help but watch the scene silently. Yeyasu took on the role of ‘mom’ far easier than he had expected. The guy was a renown pervert, but that was all for show. He never did anything, never touched anyone without consent. Hell, he would turn his gaze away whenever…accidents happened.

He was such a virgin.

“Only if Mom buys Ao some Yakitori!”

“Right, right.”

Behind Ao, just a few steps away, was a female demon. A tray of drinks in her hands. Obviously, she was a waitress with their drinks. And about damn time.

But as she approached, the waitress looked down at Ao before turning her gaze back to Yeyasu. She looked between them a few more times before an obvious wrinkle appeared on her brow. “Wait, you have a kid?”

An expression of utter pride spread across Yeyasu’s face. It was…honestly adorable.

“Sure do,” Yeyasu replied. “Ao is my daughter.”

“Yep! Ao has a dad and a mom!”

Damn it all, Ao looked adorable, too! Lucky that medicine Yeyasu crafted for him worked. Stopped him from spewing bucket loads of blood. The sight before him was so adorable, that he felt the curse stirring.

The…cuteness was that strong.

Ugh, the two were going to kill him.

Fuji was pulled out of his inner monologue when he noticed a rather…mischievous smile curl upon the waitress’ lips. “Oh, a mom and dad? How fortunate!” she placed their drinks upon the table. “So, does that mean Mom and Dad married?”

Yeyasu immediately made a high-pitched squeak and stiffen in his seat. But it was the blush, a deep, roaring red, that was most notable. “H-huh?”

Before Fuji could respond, in a manner that was expected of him, Ao uncharacteristically uttered a huff of annoyance. “Not yet. But Pirilli is working on it.”

Fuji twitched. Prilikia…

“I see!”

“F-friends!” Yeyasu finally shrieked. “We’re just friends!”

And, for some unrecognizable reason, that annoyed the shit out of Fuji.

“Oh, of course,” the waitress returned. Scepticism heavy in her voice. She sounded downright patronising. “You must be real good friends.”

That caused the blush on Yeyasu’s cheeks to somehow darken further. He spluttered incoherently, his hands flailing about as he tried to…dunno, just respond. But his reaction, the redness to his cheeks, his flustered and frazzled appearance…

Shit…

The waitress had the audacity to chortle as she walked away. “They’re just friends!” she suddenly called out.

And not a mere moment later, another demon appeared. In the getup of a chef. And he snorted. Loudly. “Pffft, must be one of those special friendships I see going ‘round.”

From behind his hands that covered his face due to sheer humiliation, Yeyasu muttered out to him. “Fuji?”

Fuji ran a frustrated hand over his face to hide his own embarrassment. “What?”

“If you raze this place to the ground, I won’t mind.”

“Tempting. Really tempting…”

If he didn’t know better, Fuji would assume the assholes got dirt and information from Pirilikia. Speaking of which, he needed someone to remind him to absolutely murder her when they returned to the nethership.

“Yeyasu, there you are.”

Yeyasu’s head immediately snapped up in surprise. “Suisen? Something wrong?”

Suisen was silent as he drifted over toward them. His expression was stoic, somewhat unreadable. And that, in turn, put Fuji subtly on edge.

The kid wasn’t out for an afternoon stroll, that was for sure.

“Well, perhaps,” Suisen replied as he paused by his brother. He hesitated, however. Silently debating with himself on what to say. Or how to say it. “There is…an issue of sorts. Apparently, from what the caretaker of Ewwdo’s cemetery claims, someone or something has been disturbing the graves. Seemingly searching for something. And…unfortunately, he found some masks littered amongst the graves.”

“Yay!” a childish giggle, a giggle so familiar, was heard. “Ao found Mom first!”

Yeyasu felt breathless when his brain finally proceeded that voice and he immediately, and honestly frantically, searched the battlefield. Ignoring all the fallen puppets. Where his gaze finally fell upon the figure of a young appearing demon with a white and blue kimono.

Ao…She was ok!

The relief Yeyasu felt was indescribable.

“Mom!” Ao hurried over to him. “Is Mom ok?”

Yeyasu nodded. “Y-yeah, I’m in one piece. Your timing is amazing, Ao.”

Ao didn’t smile at the praise, however. She kept a frown on his lips as she cast her gaze around their surroundings. And for good reason as some of the fallen puppets began to move, pulling themselves together.

“Ao, the masks themselves need to be destroyed,” Yeyasu quickly explained. “They’re still dangerous, despite being parted from the cloaks.”

“Ok,” Ao replied firmly. “Ao will just have to destroy them completely.” A dark shadow suddenly darkened half of his youthful face. “Ao will destroy them all.”

Yeyasu did not feel remotely sorry for Jigme. Ao was Fuji’s daughter, after all.

Ao didn’t hesitate to attack the masks as they popped up like horrific jack-in-the-boxes. Destroying mask after mask. She was so fleet of foot, easily dodging the rapid attacks from blades and chains.

Haha, yeah, she was definitely Fuji’s daughter.

Still, he couldn’t let her do all the fighting on her Ao. She did seem to enjoy it. A bonding experience with her father, no doubt. But…he could muster up a few spells, too. To show Jigme that he wasn’t completely useless.

He…needed to prove that to himself, too.

Yeyasu tightened his grip on Tokugawa Tenge and raised it before her. Readying it for an attack. But a swift movement from the corner of his eye stopped him. He immediately cast his gaze in that direction and watched in utter disbelief as a mask and cloak slowly unfurled from the forest floor.

Another puppet. Just like the others. Only, it wasn’t. Something was different.

Wait…that mask had been damaged! The lower portion completely gone. Only the splintered border where it once was. How was it moving?!

The puppet stretched to its full height only to pause. It looked incomplete, somehow. Wait…it didn’t move like the others. It was lopsided. One sleeve completely listless, while the other held a sword.

Jigme…didn’t have the entire puppet under his control. Only one arm. One blade. The cloak moved silently. Soundlessly. Halting only to hover directly behind Ao. And raised a blade.

Ao hadn’t noticed it yet.

The glint of the silver blade prompted Yeyasu to lurch forward. No thought, no plan – he just moved forward. And planted himself between Ao and the sharp, single blade from the puppet.

A strange…stinging sensation suddenly spread across his back. Across his shoulder blades. Sharp, biting, and burning. It was somewhat dull, yet intense at the same time. His mind couldn’t fully comprehend the sensation. But his body could.

Tokugawa Tenge tumbled from his grasp as he fell to his knees and haphazardly fell back to sit on his heels. He suddenly felt strangely weak, the burning across his back intensifying when a mysterious warmth spread across his shoulders. And slowly made its way down his back.

He…

Ao spun around to face him, her eyes widening when she spied the puppet behind him. A puppet he himself couldn’t see. But he knew it was there. He felt its presence. And he heard a low mutter. An echo, nearly. Of Jigme’s voice.

“Sacrificing fool. Just like…”

Ao suddenly disappeared from sight, but Yeyasu knew where she went. He also felt her presence behind him. A spike of power followed before the splintering of wood. And Jigme’s existence within the mask abruptly disappeared. For good.

“Mom!”

A split second later, Ao was before him once more. Her hands on his shoulders. She looked at him, unexpectedly teary-eyed and worried. Her youthful face pale.

Hah…he knew it. He was injured. Again. It was…different, though. It hurt. A pain similar to when he was stabbed not long ago. Yet, he wasn’t as perturbed. Not as worried, like he should be. It…was for a good cause, he supposed.

His arms felt heavy. Like blocks of stone. But Yeyasu managed to lift them and around them around Ao’s neck and shoulders. To pull her into a hug. One of comfort and reassurance, though it might be directed more at himself. “I’m glad you’re ok…”

“Mom?”

“Jigme…taunted me earlier. He said that you had been killed. He said such terrible things. I…know how strong you are.” Yeyasu pulled back from the hug and rested his hands on his daughter’s shoulders. He tried to smile, but it felt forced. Tired. “Strong and capable. But…I was still worried. And scared.”

Tears rolled down his cheeks and he pinched his eyes shut. “If anything happened to you, I would never forgive myself…”

Under his hands, Yeyasu felt Ao shift. She moved strangely. Erratically. Ao was…trembling?

No, she was seething.

Yeyasu peeled open his eyes when he heard Ao growl under her breath. “Ao is angry. Jigme hurt Mom. Ao knows Jigme is hiding somewhere close by. And…I will hunt him down. And I will kill him.”

Ao suddenly disappeared from in front of him and just a mere second later, he heard a series of explosions and felt the fury of several attacks. Yeyasu lowered his hands to his lap and uttered a sigh. His…back was painful. And his head hurt, too. Too many spells in a short amount of time. He felt strangely lightheaded, despite the pounding of his pulse in his ears. And he felt…cold.

How…bad was the injury on his back?

Yeyasu’s eyes widened and he grew tense when another explosion occurred behind him. Forceful and fiery, a total disregard to their surroundings, and yet still controlled. So, it was familiar to him.

“Someone’s going to be really upset when I shove Kanzan Musashi clean up their ass!”

Fuji…

H-he wasn’t talking to him, was he?

“Dad, Mom’s hurt!”

“What?!”

The sound of footsteps behind him was reassuring. Masks were unable to walk, after all. Despite the chaos around him, Yeyasu felt oddly calm. Merely raises his arms to hug himself as his back continued to hurt, painful with each breathe.

From the corner of his eye, Fuji skidded to a stop and crouched next to him. A hand on his shoulder. Not back. Just his shoulder.

“What happened?” Fuji demanded, his voice gruff, his anger barely restrained.

“A sword,” Yeyasu murmured. “Jigme was just toying with me. I’m…not sure what damage has been done. It…hurts.”

Fuji swore under his breath as he suddenly leapt to his feet, an attack following immediately after. “There’s too many damn masks here!”

As the repercussions of the attack faded, the sound of clinking chains followed. Masks must have gathered around him again. Chains at the ready. Jigme was still trying to capture him through the use of those damn chains. Even when he was hurt. Just what did that…asshole want with him?

Fuji quickly returned to Yeyasu’s side and grabbed him by the arm. And tried to pull him to his feet. Yeyasu uttered a pained whimper as he tried to get his legs to work. But the pressure on his back was almost too much.

“Sorry,” Fuji murmured quietly. “But I can’t leave you here to fight. There’s too many of the bastards.”

Yeyasu didn’t want to move. He truly didn’t. But he knew that Fuji was just trying to protect him. He obviously knew their situation better. So, it was with a lot of effort and help from Fuji himself that allowed Yeyasu to struggle to his feet, Tokugawa Tenge limp in his grip.

He uttered another pain filled mewl when Fuji suddenly released his hold on his arm and stooped down next to him. Where he proceeded to wrap a strong arm around the back of his legs, just above the knees.

“Hold on,” Fuji uttered as he stood up slowly, prompting Yeyasu to grasp onto his shoulders for support, and lifted him up off the ground. Keeping him close to him. “I’m not allowing that bastard to separate us again.”

With Tokugawa Tenge in his left hand, hanging loosely by his side, Yeyasu wrapped his other arm around Fuji neck and shoulders, and rested his cheek against the top of his head. The manoeuvre wasn’t comfortable, but it was…comforting, he supposed.

“Fuji, the masks,” Yeyasu began. “You need to destroy the masks completely. Jigme still has some control over them, even if the mask is half damaged.”

“Fine,” Fuji spat out, lacking his usual sadistic enthusiasm. “I’ll just have to burn this place to the ground.”

Yeyasu squeezed his eyes shut to push back the nausea that just had to stir when Fuji began to move. He sensed the presence of his attacks, heard him cuss out the enemies around them, and felt the searing heat of his skills. Still, despite all the jostling, despite the rapid movements Fuji had to perform for his attacks, Yeyasu’s back didn’t hurt as much.

Was that a good thing?

“Only a few left!” Fuji barked out.

Yeyasu peeled open his eyes, taking a moment to blink back the blurriness of his vision. And stared at the masks that lingered.

There was…hesitation in the cloaked masks, all of them tense and still. Suddenly, they all dropped to the ground. The strings pulling them severed. Despite that, Ao did not appear happy. And he heard Fuji utter a curse of disgust under his breath. They both truly wanted to find Jigme. The both of them truly wanted him dead.

…Hah. Yeyasu was relieved that Jigme appeared afraid of someone.

Still, that caused concern, too. Would he start to target the two of them next? Really target them, and not lie to Yeyasu about them?

Fuji uttered a gruff sigh as he lowered Kanzan Musashi to his side. He remained tense, though. Yeyasu could feel the tension in his shoulders and back. Which was understandable. The masks dropping could be nothing more than a trick.

So, Fuji and Ao remained on alert for a few minutes. And…nothing happened. Still, Fuji tightened his hand on Kanzan Musashi and unleashed a fiery attack, frying the masks and cloaks. And searing the fallen weapons and chains.

As ashes rose, Fuji placed Kanzan Musashi into its sheath. He tightened his arm around Yeyasu’s legs and slowly lowered him to the ground. The moment Yeyasu’s feet touched the dry, rocky soil, his knees buckled. And he crumbled to the ground.

“Is mom ok?” Ao asked as she helped Yeyasu to delicately sit back on his heels.

“Y-yeah, I’m fine.” A bold face lie, but he felt the need to reassure. And to apologise. “I’m…sorry. For pulling you all into danger like this.”

Ao smiled cheerfully. “It’s ok. Ao finds more danger than this.”

Yeyasu laughed but soon regretted it, his back promptly reminding him of his injuries yet again. “With Fuji as your father, I’m sure you do.”

Fuji didn’t respond to his words, however. His attention was focused upon his back. He felt him tugging and pulling at the clothes on his back. And when he uttered a terse swear word under his breath, Yeyasu knew it was pretty bad.

It would…explain a lot, honestly.

“How bad is it?”

Fuji was silent for a moment. “We need to get you back to the nethership.”

Ahaha…that bad, huh?

“Well, that was certainly quite interesting.”

Yeyasu immediately snapped his head up as a soft, wispy voice suddenly resounded in his mind. He instinctively scanned their surroundings, looking every which way. Searching for a Guardian Beast. One the size as the previous three.

Instead, his gaze was drawn to the ground. Where a small…bird was seen. Hopping across the well-trodden path. Fluffy, white as snow, with light brown feathers on the very tip of their wings. Amongst the fluff, two beady black eyes, a little black beat, and two tiny, spindly legs also the colour of black.

They were so…tiny.

“What the hell is that thing?” Fuji asked, suspicious and tense, as the little bird came to a stop right before Yeyasu.

“Easy, Fuji,” Yeyasu soothed. “They’re a Guardian Beast.”

Well, he was pretty sure that was what the little bird was, at least.

Ao glanced at the bird and frowned before she turned her vivid red eyes in his direction. “But Mom is hurt.”

“N-no, I’m alright,” Yeyasu insisted as he attempted to readjust himself, to take on a more formal, professional kneeing sit. “I just…need to pass the trial now.”

Next to him, Fuji bristled wildly and snapped his attention directly toward him. And snared his hand with his, forcing Yeyasu himself to turn toward him. “Are you kidding me? You can’t even stand on your own feet.”

Yes, Yeyasu was well aware of that. “S-so? I won’t need my back or feet for this.”

“That’s besides the point.” Fuji practically growled with frustration as he tightened his grip on Yeyasu’s hand. He unexpected still and drew in a sharp breath through his nose, seemingly calming himself. “Yeyasu, enough of this. The tonic works just fine. I don’t need all of this.”

Yeyasu was surprised by the level of calm in Fuji’s voice. But only momentarily, as his surprise soon melded into frustration. “What are you saying? Fuji, we have three items already. Just two more. And you’ll be free entirely. Why aren’t you happy with that?”

Fuji aggressive, fiery temperament soon returned. “Because it’s putting you in danger!”

“Wh-what?” Yeyasu spluttered before he waved his free hand toward the charred remains around them. “Oh, and this was just a walk in the park? How am I not putting you in danger, too?!”

“That’s completely different!”

“How!?”

A quiet chuckle suddenly echoed through his head. “Hmm, fascinating.”

Yeyasu instinctively stiffened, something he regretted immediately when, of course, his back protested. He soon realised that his hand was still being held by Fuji. A grip that was both tight, but not crushing. Not painful. And he made no attempt to dislodge his hand. Even as he snapped his attention toward the little Guardian Beast before him.

“What? Oh, right. Ah, my apologies,” Yeyasu rambled.

The little Guardian Beast wagged its tail, seemingly amused. “No, it is fine. Soothe your warrior by telling him that there will be no trial.”

That truly surprised Yeyasu. “What? Why?”

“Because you have already passed it,” the Guardian Beast replied swiftly, yet firmly. “I watched as you fought alone. I watched the devastation resting upon your face when you thought you lost your daughter. I saw the determination in your actions. You came this way for the Moon Bamboo. Despite outside interference, you are still determined. There is nothing more you need to prove yourself.”

“That’s…” Yeyasu sat silently for a moment, just letting himself absorb all the information.

He…passed? 

“Your warrior over there has also proven himself,” the Guardian suddenly added, wagging their little tail in amusement once more. “He did not take kindly to the teleportation geo panels. A lot of bamboo trees will need to be replanted.”

An awkward laugh passed Yeyasu’s lips. “Y-yeah, I can imagine. Do pardon his actions.”

Guardian gave another wiggle of their tail as they hopped closer. Flapping their little wings to come to a rest on his knee. “It is fine. You truly are interesting, young Shogun.”

Huh? Him?

“Hey.” Fuji suddenly nudged him in the side. “What’s going on?”

Oh, right. He kept forgetting that no one else was able to hear the Guardian Beast. “Fuji, there isn’t going to be a trial. We’ve already earned the Moon Bamboo.” He paused for a moment as a smile twitched onto his lips. “In spite of you destroying half the forest.”

Fuji frowned, completely unapologetic. “I wouldn’t have to if some dumbass didn’t get separated.”

That was hardly Yeyasu’s fault. He refused to accept fault for that. So, he just rolled his eyes at the dragon. “Right, right.”

The Guardian chuckled once more. “Your warrior is quite fascinating, too.”

Yeyasu flushed lightly when he finally registered that the Guardian Beast kept referring to Fuji as his warrior. “Oh, ah, th-this is Fuji,” he introduced with a small wave of his hand. “He’s the one who been cursed.”

The Guardian flapped their little wings once more, taking a short flight to rest on Yeyasu’s hand, startling him slightly. But the little bird had their attention directed toward Fuji. “Yes, yes, I see. Quite a potent one at that.”

“If, no when I collect all the items, will…it work?” Yeyasu asked, prompting the little bird to hop around to face him once more.

The Guardian didn’t immediately reply, however, leaving him unsettled. “…It depends on your determination. And his consent.”

He…supposed that made sense.

Consent, huh? Fuji seemed to be against the Purification Ritual. For some reason. Did he…not believe it would work? Did he not believe in…him?

“Hmm, the two of you really need to sit down and have a chat.”

A-ah, he supposed so.

The little Guardian hopped around on his hand once more, to look over at the young appearing demon that knelt at Yeyasu’s side. “This young girl?”

“This is Ao. My daughter.”

“Ah,” the Guardian uttered as they quirked their head side to side. “How precious.”

Yeyasu felt pride swell in his chest. “Yeah.”

“Shogun, I do hope you come to understand how beloved you truly are.”

Yeyasu quirked his own head to the side. “Huh?”

The little Guardian, however, ignored his confusion as they hopped in the palm of his hand to face him once more. They waggled their tail once more; their beady black eyes focused upon him. “Before we part, one final gift.”

Before Yeyasu could utter a word, he felt a strange warmth suddenly engulf his body. A shimmer of light green light surrounded him. And a strange tingling, itching sensation spread across his back. From his right shoulder to above his left hip. Yet, it began to shrink, the numbing, tingling sensation abruptly ending when it reached the centre of his back.

Yeyasu felt slightly breathless as the warmth dissipated. “That-?”

“Yes, I healed you of your injury,” the Guardian Beast replied immediately as Fuji and Ao began to fuss over him, prompted by his tense reaction to the healing. “Your bruises will remain for a couple of days, I’m afraid. As will you exhaustion. Your next trial will not be easy. So, take this time to recover. And to rest. You do deserve it.”

A few days off? A shogun couldn’t really afford to do that. He had already skipped out on a few days of paperwork as it was. He…supposed it wouldn’t hurt to spend a couple of days in his office in Ewwdo.

Guardian shook their little head before they hopped off of Yeyasu’s hand, fluttering their little wings to land on the ground a mere half of metre in front of him. They had their back to him at first, but soon turned around. To look at him once more. “Shogun, one more thing if I may.”

Yeyasu tilted his head to the side in curiosity. “What is it?”

“Your next destination…will reveal certain truths. Information that will be hard to process.” Guardian turned their back toward him and hopped away slowly, quietly, as the fog that Yeyasu had pushed back ages ago began to return. Seeping through the tall bamboo trees to swirl around them.

And allowing the little Guardian Beast to disappear into the white clouds.

“I wish you luck.”

A swirl of mist suddenly pooled on the ground in front of him, only to dissipate a mere moment later. Where a pitch white bamboo fragment was found.

“Mom?” Ao called out to him questioningly.

It was hard to concentrate, though. As Fuji sat on the other end of the work table in the library. Tense and sullen. And he tapped his fingers atop of the wooden furniture. Tap, tap, tap. Out of boredom or frustration. Or maybe both. But the sound was starting to drive him mad.

“Fuji, stop fidgeting,” Yeyasu scolded. “I told you. I knew you would get bored after a while. Being the shogun is actually quite boring.”

Well, normally, at least. What happened just a few hours ago kinda contradicted that. And, wow, did that really happen? It…felt like a dream now. His bruised ankle, however, was physical testament.

“A lot of paperwork and research involved,” he continued. “Why don’t you go on patrol or something?”

Fuji scowled at him, his posture straightening, all but bristling at him. “And I told you that I’m not letting you out of my sight.”

Despite himself, a part of Yeyasu wondered just how…far he was actually willing to keep an eye on him. He better not let his mind wander too far!

Instead, Yeyasu tilted his head to the side. “You’re really bothered about what happened, aren’t you?”

Fuji snorted in annoyance. And frustration. “Obviously. I’m the bodyguard here, and yet both times you were attacked.”

Ah, so he was right.

Two attacks. One leading to a stabbing and the second an invasion. And both times, Fuji was in the same vicinity. His pride had received quite the battering. It was highly unlikely that Yeyasu would be able to ditch him anytime soon. Not that he would try too hard, honestly.

“Fine, fine,” Yeyasu muttered as he rested his hands atop of the table and pushed himself to his feet slowly, being oh-so cautious of his ankle. “I’m going to continue my research. So, sit there and be bored, or look through some books to entertain yourself.”

Fuji planted his elbow on the table and rested his chin in his hand. He stared at him, his expression stoic, but also somehow wistful. “You’re really dedicated to this.”

Yeyasu smothered a sigh. That question again. He already answered. Well, half answered it. He wasn’t about to reveal the whole truth to him. Nope. Too much stress and drama. Thanks to a certain Mask Maker, he was under enough stress.

“What’s wrong with wanting to remove a curse?” Yeyasu returned as he shuffled toward the bookcases. “I’m doing it because I want to. Stop questioning me and just accept that you’re going to be my guineapig.”

Fuji snorted again. But he seemed to accept the response. Perhaps figuring that his research could lead to other revelations and outcomes. With a terrible curse like the Empathy Killer existing, what other dark spells could also exist?

Yeyasu idly trailed his fingertips along the spines of the books. The library was thankfully undisturbed. For the most part. He rattled and ruffled some tomes and scrolls when he used a wind spell to release Partyasu of his mask.

Speaking of his cuz, the guy was unable to reveal any information about Jigme. One second he was completing an errand, the next he had a mask slapped on his face. And then after that, waking up lying on his back in the library.

Thankfully, he was left unharmed, though wholly confused. The same for other servants. But it was disturbing, the little information Partyasu had given them. Just slapping masks on demon faces and controlling them. Jigme was really powerful.

What…would he try next?

Yeyasu shuddered and shook his head. There was absolutely no way he would be able to predict the mysterious Mask Maker’s next move. They knew very little about him. His family had done really well in hiding the whole…kidnapping event from his childhood. They likely hoped that Jigme was truly dead and would not return.

He really wished they had documented something about that distressing event.

Yeyasu stopped by a shelf where a few tomes had been shuffled and ruffled. Idly he began to straighten them. When something caught his attention. A few of the books had been brought forward and tilted to the side. Where he saw something. A scroll of sorts, was shoved to the very back of the bookcase. Hidden behind other large and cumbersome tomes. Almost as if on purpose.

He set the books aside and carefully extracted the oddity. Huh, a scroll. Quite an old one at that. Quite frail. He had to be careful when he unfurled it.

It took him a few minutes to manipulate the frail parchment. And his eyes widen in surprise. Writing of faded black and pale illustrations. The lettering was old, but he could read it. And it spoke of how to remove curses.

“Fuji, look at this,” Yeyasu called over.

Surprisingly dutifully, Fuji pushed himself to his feet and made his way over to him. And stood next to him, to peer over his shoulder to look down at the parchment in his hands. And he furrowed his brow in annoyance. “What am I looking at?”

“It’s a scroll about curses,” Yeyasu explained. “And it’s in Jōdai Nihon-go.”

Such an old, ancient language. It hadn’t been used in Ewwdo for thousands of years!

Fuji’s eyebrows shot up toward his hairline. “You can read this?” he asked, sounding somewhat sceptical.

Yeyasu, in turn, gave him a puzzled look. “Yeah, of course. I studied it when I was younger because I thought it would be cool.”

Fuji for his part simply gave him a funny look. One Yeyasu could not quite put his finger on. And that kinda annoyed him in return.

“What?”

“Nothing,” Fuji answered quickly. Abruptly even, before he folded his arms across his chest and looked down at the scroll once more. “What does it say?”

Yeyasu also turned his attention to the ancient parchment. “Well, it speaks of removing curses. An ancient technique, one that isn’t for the faint of heart, but by completing it, it will set the intention. Search for five rare ingredients, set in five different locations.”

Fuji perked his head up. “Does it have the locations?” he asked, his attention focused upon Yeyasu’s face.

Yeyasu nodded. “Yeah. Sakurajima. Nachi. Yakushima. Arashiyama. And finally Narusawa.”

A scowl quickly returned to Fuji’s features. “Those are some remote locations.”

Yeah, it could be quite tricky, even with the Nethership. Still, if the scroll was telling the truth, it should be worth it.

“It also says that if you combined all the ingredients, the truth to how to remove your specific curse will appear. In the form of an amulet or scroll.”

Fuji didn’t say anything for a beat before he raised his hand and roughly scratched at the golden horn in his hair. “I’m sceptical,” he admitted.

Yeyasu had to smile. “Heh, not surprised. But it might actually work. And…I can’t stay trapped inside of the castle, now can I? A bit of adventure. Just like the old days.” He winced. “Er, with less life and death situations, of course.”

Fuji fell silent once more. And struggled to find a way to rebuke or counter what he had just said. And he struggled really hard. Only to sigh a few moments later. “…I suppose it wouldn’t hurt to at least attempt it.”

“That’s right,” Yeyasu said as he returned the scroll to its original form. “As they say, nothing ventured, nothing gained.”

The corner of Fuji’s mouth twitched slightly. “I wonder how Pirilika would bungle that idiom.”

Yeyasu gave a short chuckle. “Oh, who knows. It’s a skill only she possesses.”

He fell silent as he trailed his fingertips along the outside of the scroll. Five locations. The first mentioned on the list was Sakurajima, if he remembered correctly. A volcano. It…hadn’t erupted in decades, but it was still somewhat hazardous. Depending where one put their feet. Still, it was quite a large location. Filled with old lava tubes and forgotten shrines.

The scroll held illustrations of what they were expected to find. Some kind of lava stone.

Ugh, that could be any rock they came across. Couldn’t the scroll be more specific?

“Well, anyway let’s get ready to visit the Sakurajima. The first item on the list!”

“Tomorrow,” Fuji said curtly. “We’ll do that tomorrow.”

Yeyasu frowned. “But-”

Fuji’s stare somehow grew more fearsome. “No.”

“O-oh, ok.” Yikes, better not argue with that look! “Oh, well, I guess I’ll work on my research instead.” Yeyasu brushed past Fuji as he hobbled back toward the working desk. “Gotta keep myself busy!”

“Yeyasu…” Fuji murmured, followed by a string of certain words.

Huh, he sounded frustrated. Yeyasu wondered what that was about.

… … … … …

Sakurajima. It had been a while since Yeyasu had visited. Which was a shame, as despite being a volcano, it was quite peaceful.

A foliage of lush green, plants growing abundantly thanks to the nutrient rich soils. Yet the brown stones and seared ash of the volcano itself rose within the centre of the island. Where the utmost crater sat in the very centre. Puffs of smoke was usually seen wafting from the peak, but it had not erupted in full fury for centuries.

It wasn’t a particularly tall volcano, but it was enough for restless demons and travellers to trek and picnic if they so desired. The information and tourist centre was always abuzz with customers.

There was something else about Sakurajima that tugged at Yeyasu’s memories. Something…something about a rumour? A myth?

“Oh right, I remember now,” Yeyasu murmured, quickly gaining everyone’s attention, causing them to pause in their trek along the well-known main path. “There’s been stories about some kind of Guardian Beast in this place. Though, I’m not sure what it is exactly that it’s guarding.”

Guardian Beasts where…deities of sorts, he supposed. Powerful and intimidating. Ranging from peaceful and serene, to temperamental and volatile. All of them known for guarding a specific treasure.

That was how the legend went, at least.

Higan looked positively thrilled. “Oh-ho, a Guardian Beast, you say? This might be an interesting expedition after all.”

A truly battle mad woman.

“Perhaps this Guardian Beast is guarding this Mahogany Obsidian Shard we are searching for,” Suisen suggested, ever rational.

“Ah, you’re probably right.”

Higan planted a hand on her hip and cast a gaze around at their surroundings. “So, we have to search this entire region for a shard of rock. This could take some time.”

“I suggest we split up into smaller groups,” Ceefore suddenly piped up. “It will make things easier for us.”

Pirilika smiled that patent catty smile of hers. “Well, Fuji must go with Yeyasu, so it’s just to the rest of us to partner up.”

Yeyasu shot a glance over at Fuji, only to find the fierce dragon nonchalant. Accepting of his role. No objections. So, Yeyasu wasn’t going to argue, either. It should prove…interesting only having Fuji with him as they explore.

“You kids go ahead,” Higan said, somewhat dismissive. Only for that shit-eating smile to return to her lips. “I’m going to go in search for this Guardian Beast.”

Of course, she was.

Yeyasu winced, fear for the volcano’s safety settling in the pit of his stomach. “D-don’t do too much damage to Sakurajima, ok?”

“I’ll go with Suisen,” Ceefore stated. A little bit too eagerly in Yeyasu’s opinion.

And Pirilika nodded her head. “So, it’s me and Ao. We can discuss…” she paused as her catty smile grew more…mischievous. “certain things.”

Fuji immediately bristled as his eyes narrowed. “Don’t think I don’t see that smile of yours, Prisillika.”

Pirilika was not at all bothered by the stare. “Oh, what’s wrong with this smile, hm?”

Fuji stared back at her for a beat, the two in a bit of a silent standoff. “Hgn, fine,” he finally muttered, reluctantly. “Let’s see what we can find within two hours. Meet back here. Don’t get into any trouble, Ao.”

“Ok,” Ao cheerfully replied. “Take good care of Mom, Dad.”

Fuji watched until their companions as they parted ways, each taking a new path. His stare lingering still until the five were out of sight. And out of hearing range.

“Those girls are up to something,” he muttered, making no attempt to hide his suspicion.

And Yeyasu knew what those girls were up to. And unfortunately, he felt his cheeks heat up when he remembered Pirilika’s vow to play matchmaker. No matter the cost. “Oh, ah, I’m sure it’s nothing nefarious,” he quickly offered.

Pirilika had obviously gotten Ao involved. And she appeared to be more than happy to help.

Fuji hadn’t figured it out, though. Hopefully he hadn’t, that was.

Fuji sighed and roughly raked his fingers through his hair. “So…where should we start looking? Any clues on the scroll?”

Yeyasu idly patted his chest, where the scroll was hidden within his haori. “No, unfortunately. It does mention that if truly desired, it would find you.”

“Oh, that’s a crock of shit,” Fuji muttered, sceptically at that.

“Don’t be like that,” Yeyasu scolded lightly before he turned and glanced at their surroundings. “Let’s move off the beaten trail. It wouldn’t be a rare object if it was easy to find.”

“Heh, that’s true.”

Yeyasu took another moment to inspect the paths and stones around him, his gaze soon narrowing upon a small, seemingly rarely used path. Stretching throughout the brown stone and harden ash, through the jagged peaks and crests.

A good of a path as any.

Yeyasu took the lead with Fuji right behind him. And he meant right behind him. Any closer and the dragon would be breathing down the back of his neck! He supposed he shouldn’t complain. Fuji was definitely taking his bodyguard role seriously. And he had vowed to keep a very close eye on him.

Their surroundings appeared unremarkable. The path rocky, the colour a muted brown. There were a few moments where they had to manoeuvre pass a few sharp, jagged stones piercing through the ground. Otherwise, the path was easy. Normal.

A strange…pulse of energy, subtle but still noticeable, resonated from the scroll within his clothing. Yeyasu immediately stopped dead in his tracks and touched the hidden parchment with a slight furrow in his brow.

“What?” Fuji asked, caution in his voice.

“It’s the scroll,” Yeyasu replied. “I think it’s reacting to something.”

Fuji took a moment to surveyed their surroundings, a light scowl on his face and his hand gripping the demonic blade. “To what?”

“I’m not sure,” Yeyasu answered honestly.

He reached into his haori and revealed the scroll. There was nothing visible noteworthy about the ancient parchment, but as it rested in Yeyasu’s hand, it felt…different. Somehow bristling with energy.

In pure curiosity, Yeyasu raised the scroll in front of him. And soon noted that it would react in a certain direction. To the right of them. Where…a very, very innoxious path could be seen.

Wordlessly, Yeyasu wandered toward the path. Slightly steep, the path beneath his feet made of loose and scattered stones and rocks. He had to move cautiously. But after a few stressful moments, he reached an equally inconspicuous opening within a sheered rocky wall.

The scroll…the energy it emitted was stronger now.

Fuji suddenly grasped Yeyasu by the elbow. His grip was tight, but not painful, as he tugged him backwards. Toward him, all but pressing him against his side.

“I’ll go first,” he said simply. “And stay right behind him.”

And Yeyasu silently nodded his head in return. The scroll seemed to indicate toward the strange opening, but that did not mean there was something dangerous hiding inside. Maybe even that Guardian Beast he had heard stories about.

After Yeyasu returned the scroll to his hoari, he all but pressed himself against Fuji’s back as they moved cautiously forward. Just beyond the opening was a set of stairs. Old, weathered and cracked in many places. But it was clear that the structure was purposely made, not some natural occurrence. Strangely of all, there were lit torches of fire lining the path. How they had been lit and who was responsible, was completely unknown. But at least they weren’t trapezing about in the dark.

The stairs led them to another archway, and just beyond that stretched out a rocky cavern. With an obvious stone altar situated within the very centre. Surrounded by lit candles and torches.

Yeyasu cautiously stepped away from Fuji to gaze around the chamber. It was obviously made by the hands of another. But the stone was old, chiselled out centuries ago. There was the distinct smell of moss and fungi, accompanied with the steady sound of water dripping from the ceiling.

He was a little surprised, honestly.

Yeyasu retained his caution as he approached the altar. “It’s a shrine? I didn’t know there was one here.”

Fuji joined him shortly, his gaze also scrutinizing the stone oddity. “Huh. Is that…?”

Yeyasu nodded as he trailed his fingertips over the deep engravings upon the altar. “Yeah, that’s Jōdai Nihon-go.”

“What does it say?”

“The Trial Hall of the Obsidian.”

Trial hall? Did that…?

A sudden tremor of power rippled throughout the cavern. Immediately, Yeyasu and Fuji turned from the altar sharply. Only to immediately spy a…creature of some kind. Large, taking up at least half of the chamber. Reptilian in appearance, their long body curling around the outer circle of the cavern. Much like a lazy lizard would do.

But they were also draconic, but not quite like a dragon. The scales they possessed were as sharp and jagged as the boulders scattered across Sakurajima.

W-was that the Guardian Beast?! How did something that big manage to sneak up on them?!

Fuji immediately planted himself in front of Yeyasu, Kanzan Musashi gripped in one hand, the other stretched out to keep Yeyasu behind him. “Looks like we found the Guardian Beast first. Ol’ Master Moron is going to be jealous.”

P-probably for the best.

“Why are you here?”

Yeyasu uttered a shriek at the gravely, scratchy, purely masculine voice and clutched onto Fuji’s back. “Eeeh, they can talk?!”

Fuji stiffened and sharply turned his head to glance over his shoulder. Toward Yeyasu. With a scowl on his face. “What are you on about? I didn’t hear anything.”

“H-huh?” Yeyasu uttered in disbelief, though made no attempt to move. “B-but…”

“I communicate with the one who possesses the scroll. And only to them.”

Yeyasu snapped his head up and looked over at the creature. “O-oh, I’m the only one who can hear you?”

The Guardian Beast moved their large head, mimicking a nod. “That is correct.”

O-oh, ok. W-well, he supposed that would make things easier. But did it have to happen inside his head? There were some…thoughts he’d rather keep to himself!

“Yeyasu?”

Yeyasu stepped back from Fuji and stepped around him. And placed his hand on his shoulder. He felt the tension in Fuji’s body, ready to spring into battle the moment it seemed inevitable. “W-wait. It says it only communicates with the one possessing the scroll.”

Fuji held that sceptical expression again. Unwilling to pull himself from his battle stance. “Well, maybe you can ask it what it wants.”

“It is more of what it is that you want.”

Yeyasu winced and gave the Guardian Beast a nervous, uneasy smile. “No, yeah, that’s fair.”

“Well?”

Yeyasu was not entirely comfortable with speaking to such a large entity. A Guardian Beast at that. But…he was kinda used to speaking with intimidating figures. He wouldn’t be much of a shogun if he didn’t possess the ability to talk to all kinds of demons and monsters.

“We’re searching for a shard of Mahogany Obsidian,” he replied as he took a step forward.

The Gurdian Beast tilted their draconic head to the side. Almost as if they were curious. “You wish to conduct the Purification Ritual?”

Yeyasu nodded his head. “Yes, that’s right.”

The large entity unexpectedly tilted their head to the other side; their piercing dark eyes narrowed in on him. Ignoring Fuji completely. “You can read the ancient scripture?”

“Ah, yeah?” Yeyasu replied, dumbly. “I can read it fluently.”

“…Interesting,” the Guardian Beast murmured within his mind, giving the distinct feeling of surprise and intrigue. “Now, give me your name.”

“Ah, I’m Yeyasu Edogawa.”

The Guardian Beast unexpectedly stilled. “Edogawa…Are you, perhaps, the shogun?”

Again, Yeyasu nodded his head. “Yes, I am.”

“I see.”

The Guardian Beast shifted their large body, causing Yeyasu and Fuji to tense. Yet, Yeyasu could not…feel any malice from the entity before it. In fact, he got the distinct feeling that the Guardian was simply…settling themself. Resting upon the floor of the cavern.

“Now, tell me, Shogun Yeyasu, why are you after the Mahogany Obsidian?”

Yeyasu spared a moment to glance over his shoulder. His gaze fleeting upon Fuji’s figure. He snapped his gaze back toward the Guardian and squared his shoulders unconsciously. “I wish to remove a curse. One called Empathy Killer.”

The very tip of the Guardian Beast’s tail twitched slightly. “Empathy Killer, hm?” they pondered loudly within Yeyasu’s mind. “Well then, Shogun, tell me why. The truth. Why do you wish to remove this curse?”

Yeyasu hesitated as his eyes flickered over in Fuji’s direction once more. Fuji caught him in the act, however, and furrowed his brow in response. Agitated and cautious. He having no idea of where the conversation was heading.

He…couldn’t say it out loud. It would only cause too much trouble. Too much drama. And potentially took much pain.

But he…

“I sense hesitation,” the Guardian’s voice rumbled in Yeyasu’s head once more. “Very well, speak within your mind. That is where the truth rests.”

The truth, huh?

Yeyasu regarded the being before him with a level gaze. “…The man with me. He carries the burden of that curse. One that is painful, causing him to cough up blood should he feel or experience any positive emotion. He…doesn’t deserve that. Nor does his daughter.”

The Guardian Beast gave a slow nod of their head, an indication that they had heard him easily. “And you? What do you wish to gain?”

“Nothing. I just want him to be free.”

“And, will you do whatever it takes to gain this material?”

“Yes.”

With an unexpected huff, the Guardian Beast idly folded their legs beneath their crest. Much like a contented cat would do. “Nothing in return, hm? Do you truly feel that way?”

Yeyasu’s gaze flickered toward the cavern floor, growing wistful. But wholly realistic. “…There’s a lot of things I want, but I do not expect to receive. I don’t deserve to.”

“I see.”

Despite having just curled one of their front legs beneath their chest, the appendage reappeared. And revealed a small but jagged stone. The colours of black and…mahogany. And slowly, cautiously, the Guardian presented it toward Yeyasu.

Dumbfounded, Yeyasu staggered forward a step and retrieved the stone from the Guardian’s large and likely very powerful claws. “Th-this?”

“The Mahogany Obsidian, as you have desired.”

Yeyasu could not help but frown. Was…that it? Was it really that easy? Wasn’t there supposed to be a trial, or something? “But why?”

The Guardian pulled their claw back and folded their leg contently under its crest once more. “Your sincerity is most becoming of you, Shogun.”

So…that was his trial. Being honest.

“Thank you.”

The Guardian gave a slow nod of their large, draconic head. “There are others like me, Shogun. Some may be more…protective than others. But if you remain kind, you will have no trouble.” They suddenly stilled and directed a quick but obvious glance in Fuji’s direction. “Your companions, on the other hand…”

Ahh…did that mean other guardians might prove volatile toward Fuji? Why?

“Return to the surface now.”

Yeyasu nodded in understanding and acceptance. He got the stone, time to make an escape before the Guardian changed their mind. He kept the palm sized obsidian stone in his right hand as he took Fuji’s wrist with his other. Wordlessly, he tugged the other toward the stairs, the dragon unexpectedly allowing him to without fuss or argument.

He was sure to be confused as hell, though.

About half way up the stairs, Fuji finally tugged his wrist from Yeyasu’s grip. Only so he could take him by the elbow and pull him to a stop. And as Yeyasu turned around to face him, he was promptly greeted with a scowl.

“Yeyasu, what the hell was that?” he asked. “You went silent all of a sudden and then you got the stone. That is the right stone, right?”

Ah, fair question.

Yeyasu glanced down at the stone. There was honestly nothing indicating to him that it was the right stone. But he felt that it was. Why he got it, on the other hand, was not something he could come out and tell Fuji.

“Oh, I was just…communicating with the Guardian Beast. In my head.”

Fuji’s brow furrowed further. “Telepathy? What did it say? Why did it give you the stone?”

Yeyasu floundered for a moment as he tried to think of some excuse. “We just talked, that’s all. And, well, why wouldn’t they give me the stone? I’m the shogun, after all.”

Fuji stared at him. Hard. Not believing him for a moment. His stare so potent that Yeyasu began to sweat.

“…Fine,” he unexpectedly but thankfully uttered, silently agreeing not to push him for answers. Not yet, at least. “What happens now?”