From Chinese translations by Hinako.
Draft: Version 1 - final
Notes: 宇喜多秀家 Ukita Hideie; 品川 Shinagawa; 箕輪城 Minowa jo (castle); 上野 Ueno (in Tokyo); 上州Joushuu; 房總/房总 Bousou (it's a peninsula)
PS: do not distribute this without my permission
When the visitors rang the doorbell of Yuzuru's room all of a sudden, it was already late at night. Yuzuru, currently preparing for his exams, woke up in a start after having dozed off. The doorbell rang over and over again through the quiet room.
Who could it be? At this hour...
The visitors almost wanted to wake the entire neighborhood up by continuing to ring the doorbell furiously. Not only that, the door of the apartment was being pounded upon fiercely, the situation was honestly unusual. No matter how perfect the soundproof dividers of the apartment were, this sort of noise was unbearable. Yuzuru, startled, answered the intercom.
"It's me, Narita. Hurry up and open the door!"
The voice astonished Yuzuru.
"Chiaki? Is that Chiaki! What happened? Why have you suddenly, at this hour..."
"Open the door now! This brat Kagetora has..."
Yuzuru did not wait for Chiaki to finish and ran to the entrance. When he opened the door, the figures of two people were reflected in his eyes. Yuzuru could not help but yell out.
"Takaya!"
Supported by Chiaki Shuuhei's shoulders was Ougi Takaya. Takaya had sustained severe injuries, his entire shirt was soaked in blood. At first Yuzuru thought that he had gotten into a fight with someone, but this was obviously not the case. His clothes had been torn by a blade-like object in a sophistic manner, making his shirt look tattered, on his face were gashes that looked as though he had been scratched by the paw of an animal.
Takaya, his entire body limp, was supported by Chiaki. He lifted his head slightly at Yuzuru.
"Yuzuru...?"
"You idiot! What did you do! How did you get such serious wounds...!"
"Don't shout, Narita. The injuries aren't that serious. Do you have any extra change of clothes? We can't just return to the hotel like that."
Chiaki asked, dragging Takaya roughly into the apartment.
"Come into this room!"
Yuzuru opened the door of the bedroom to let them in, Chiaki then placed Takaya on the bed.
"Idiot... The blood will be smeared onto the sheets..."
Takaya said, wanting to get up, however he was immediately held down by Chiaki.
"You be obedient now. Narita, bring me a moist towel! Also a gauze and bandage! Or just bring the whole medical kit here!"
As Chiaki gave instructions, Yuzuru ran all over the place preparing the things he had requested. Chiaki carefully peeled off Takaya's upper garment, allowing him to remove the shirt that had been stained with blood, he skilfully wiped away the blood around his neck with the towel until he was clean. Fortunately the wounds were not as deep despite the numerous cuts. Yuzuru, bringing a change of clothes, looked at Takaya worriedly.
"Are you okay?"
"Sorry to bother you, Yuzuru. You're preparing for university exams now, aren't you? I've... given you more trouble..."
"It's okay. But really, just what on earth happened?"
"Same old same old. Fought with monsters."
Chiaki said, while cleaning the wounds with the gauze.
"This is all your fault, Kagetora. You got injured because you let your guard down when you fought with that pip-squeak."
"It hurts...!"
The disinfectant permeated the wound, Takaya grimaced.
"Can't you be a little more gentle...! Clumsy fool!"
"Serves you right, you big idiot."
Yuzuru, listening to their bickering, apparently felt that everything was fine. From the surface, it seemed that the wounds were not as deep as he had imagined, they should not be too serious. Anyhow, he could only heave a sigh of relief.
"I'll go make some hot coffee. Put the dirty shirt over there, I'll take it for washing. Don't feel uncomfortable at my place, just take a good rest."
After saying this, Yuzuru temporarily left the room.
Narita Yuzuru now stayed at a rented apartment in Tokyo's Shinagawa area. After successfully graduating from high school in the previous year, he had left Matsumoto to stay in Tokyo alone as he had been accepted into the Tokyo Dental University of his dreams. By reckoning, ten months had passed swiftly since the day he moved into this apartment. With respect to university matters, they were currently having examinations.
Takaya watched Yuzuru as he left the room, then sighed deeply. He lied down on the pillow.
"Why did you bring me here?"
"I had no choice, did I? How nice would it be to return in that sort of condition where your clothes are in tatters and soaked in blood. It'd definitely cause the receptionist to call the police. This was the nearest place. Just change your clothes, idiot."
"... This isn't a place that we can just simply crash in anytime, right? If Yuzuru were to fail his exams, it'll be your fault."
"Well he's not like some people."
Chiaki handily wound up the unused bandages, he surveyed the inside of the room.
"While other people are returning home, rushing all over the place, this obnoxious brat Narita is still here in this high-rise apartment... Haha, how hateful. This young master of a rich dentist simply would not understand the toil of a person's life."
Yuzuru was staying on the seventh floor of a ten-storey apartment, which was a five minute walk from the bus station, a fairly comfortable one room-one hall unit with a kitchenette and attached bathroom, it was a rather big place for just one occupant. The university that Yuzuru was now enrolled in was not far from this place either. They had heard that it was the same institution Yuzuru's father had studied at. Even though there was a dental university in Matsumoto, Yuzuru had mentioned that he wanted to live by himself away from his parents, hence decided to attend this university in Tokyo. His parents had allowed him to do so, saying that 'this is a kind of training to prepare him for adulthood'.
Takaya sighed softly and muttered.
"One year has passed... Since Yuzuru came to Tokyo."
"That's right. Time really flies. While we were patrolling the entire country, that brat was but enjoying his merry little university life."
"But if he's in Tokyo, there'll be more chances to meet up with him."
Takaya sighed after he finished and looked up at the ceiling, he pressed his eyelids with his fingers.
"What happened to that guy who escaped? Did you chase him down?"
"Don't worry. He has been settled with no remains. Probably was an aide of Nagano Narimori. He must've been the person who was buried alive as a sacrifice together with him when he committed seppuku. Bastards who just love to do foolish things. Even if one were to die together with others, no good will ever come out of it."
"... Settling the Nagano should be a good thing, but in the end it would only be advantageous to the Takeda."
Takaya sighed again. Nagano Narimori, whom he had exorcised, was formerly the lord of Minowa Castle in the state of Ueno. He was the son of the famous Nagano Narimasa. After his father died, he suffered an attack by Shingen, remorsefully committed seppuku and died. To Takeda Shingen, for the longest time the Nagano clan was considered to be 'their greatest enemy in the Joushuu district'. In Yami Sengoku, the Nagano clan and Shingen had been resurrected as onryou at about the same time but owing to the Takeda's invasion of Joushuu, which drove them out of Minowa Castle, they have now allied themselves with Awa of the Satomi clan in order to recover their daimyo's castle. By carrying out guerrilla warfare, they fought fiercely against the Takeda.
Besides the Chiba Prefecture, the Kanto region was now almost entirely under the power of the Takeda. The Hojo was destroyed after the incident at Nikko, and in the two years that passed, the influence of the Takeda had expanded in leaps and bounds. The territory that once belonged to the Hojo had been seized by the Takeda in one military sweep, other generals could not even take advantage of the opportunity. At present, it could be said that the land encompassed by the Kanto region was dyed in the colors of the Takeda. But it was because of this reason that a tenacious resistance was underway by the Satomi and the Nagano clans in one area of the Bousou peninsula, causing the Takeda a great deal of exasperation.
"But we don't have a choice. We can't just ignore the Nagano and let the residents continue to be involved in the incidents."
"... That's true."
Not knowing if it was because his wounds hurt, Takaya felt some pain thus closed his eyes, using his hand to comfort the bruises he had received from Narimori.
"Reassure the 'Ken En', who have done their best to provide assistance, on my behalf. Tell them their efforts are appreciated."
"Mmm. I'll pass on the message."
Chiaki had packed away the bandage roll, he stretched his body slightly.
"... Don't bother about that, the problem is you. Kagetora."
"...?"
"Sustaining this sort of injuries, it's not that you took Narimori lightly, right? Also, the condition of the scene after the fight. If it was just him alone, it's impossible that you would incur this extent of a devastation."
Chiaki had seen through it.
"Did you lose control of your powers again?"
Takaya turned away quietly. This seemed to be a matter he was unwilling to discuss, Takaya cast his look aside with displeasure. Chiaki, seeing his behavior, understood it and continued to say.
"Don't hide it. Even if you do, it's pointless. It's obvious with just one look at the destruction."
"That was because Narimori resisted."
"It can't be, right? With your strength, it should've been easy for you to suppress Narimori. Even if you didn't topple the walls of the warehouse, you tore up the asphalt pavement right? ... If I I could it."
"..."
"It was because your powers broke loose. Isn't that right?"
"Not to the extent of losing control."
Takaya stared at Chiaki fiercely.
"It was only a slip of the hand."
"And because of your slip, you killed the hyouza?"
Takaya halted in his speech, he stared at Chiaki bitterly. Chiaki disregarded Takaya's manner, arrogantly folded his arms, and leaned against the back of the chair.
"Looks like it'd be better if I carried on with the treatment."
"I don't need it anymore."
"I'm saying this because you need it. Now you've already killed one hyouza that should've been saved!"
"I didn't kill him!"
Takaya retorted in all seriousness.
"I might have injured him, but I didn't kill him!"
"You can't be sure of that yet. Even though we called the ambulance, he had already sustained severe wounds. The odds of him being saved is probably about 50-50. At least if you had been able to control your powers, the hyouza wouldn't have received that grave an injury. Am I correct?"
Takaya could not say anything to refute, he could only look at Chiaki painfully.
"Until you can control your powers 100% like previously, I'll continue with the treatment. This isn't for your sake. I don't want to get injured because of your predicament. To prevent your powers from going out of control we must continue with the treatment. To be safe, you must go through one 'enforcement hypnosis' per day. Understood?"
Even though Takaya was unwilling, he felt downcast and had no choice but to nod.
"Good. That's good."
"--I want to drink some water..."
Seemingly tired, Takaya lied down on the bed weakly, rolling up his sleeves.
"I want cold water, can you get that for me?"
"What a truly tough general you are."
Chiaki said as he got up from his chair.
"I'll go get it. You just rest a bit."
"Naoe..."
Takaya mumbled. Chiaki, a little startled, shifted his gaze.
"Contact Naoe, I want him to pick me up. We can't disturb Yuzuru's study. We'll return to the hotel tonight."
"... Mmm. I'll contact him."
Chiaki replied in a muffled voice and left the room. Once the door closed, the inside of the room turned pitch black. Takaya, lying on the bed, had already closed his eyes.
- Chiaki finds Yuzuru in the kitchen making coffee, tells Yuzuru to give Takaya a glass a water - Takaya would be more at ease if it were Yuzuru
- Chiaki then drops himself down on the sofa, sighing deeply; notices the song playing - a very popular one at the moment; then Chiaki criticizes him being such a pampered rich man's son, thinks Yuzuru has probably never worked before
- Chiaki, like the rest, keeps thinking Yuzuru wants to be a doctor; Yuzuru is studying dentistry
- Yuzuru starts being firm with Chiaki for letting Takaya get so badly wounded; Chiaki says he lectures like an old man
- Yuzuru takes a glass of water to the bedroom; Takaya has fallen asleep probably out of fatigue
- Takaya had not told Yuzuru about the incident of Itsukushima but Chiaki had told him so Yuzuru knows he had been used by Nobunaga and what it means to have the Seed planted in him; in fact Yuzuru's memories during that time are fuzzy, like he was having a nightmare
- Yuzuru did cry bitter tears over his lack of strength and whole situation, but ironically it is because he had been targeted by Nobunaga that he could continue to be friends with Takaya, although he can't admit that it's better this way since it poses a risk to Takaya and the others
- the thing that irks Yuzuru the most is that the Takaya now is no longer the Takaya that he once knew due to all the things that have happened, however Takaya has never changed in his attitude towards Yuzuru (although Yuzuru suspects this is because Takaya doesn't want him to worry)
- Yuzuru hates himself for becoming a person who's suspicious of others so much that Takaya has become someone that can't be fully trusted to him
- Yuzuru remembers that in high school Takaya seemed more street smart than other students although he had a kind of naiveté in his face; every time Yuzuru goes to a gathering or reunion of his former high school classmates, they would always ask what was Takaya up to now and he had to be vague with his answers ('He's doing fine')
- but the one who was pitiful was Miya (Takaya's sister), who is already a senior high school student; Takaya only let his family know that he was working in Tokyo; Yuzuru thinks that Takaya's past conflicts with his father could also be preventing him from returning to Matsumoto
- Yuzuru feels that Takaya's current life doesn't have future, to continue with this 'job' it'll only increasingly isolate him from society; Yuzuru wonders if Takaya has already let go of everything
- Yuzuru feels gloomy about Takaya's predicament, it's as if his life just stopped two years ago when he became more and more involved in battles against the onshou; Yuzuru only wants Takaya to lead a contented life
- just when Yuzuru decides to leave the room to let Takaya rest, Takaya awakens
- Takaya asks what song is playing; it's by 'Seeva', the main theme song of a movie; Takaya likes the song a lot
- Yuzuru then offers to make a copy for him there and then, but suddenly he remembers the concert tickets and persuades Takaya to go with him; Takaya says he'll try his best to go
- Takaya mentions that being at Yuzuru's place makes him feel very much at east and very warm; Yuzuru then tells him to stay as long as he likes but Takaya refuses, thinking it'd be better to return to the hotel, Naoe will be coming to fetch him
- Yuzuru is rather disappointed
***
One hour later, two people arrived to pick them up. Once the main door was opened, Ayako pushed Chiaki aside as she rushed into the apartment.
"Where's Kagetora... Kagetora, are you alright!"
"Hey, it's midnight. Lower your voice a little."
"Is he here? In the bedroom, right? Kagetora! Kage...!"
Just as Ayako was about to enter the bedroom, the door opened, Takaya emerged. It seemed as though he had heard her voice and had gotten up. Takaya, standing beside the door, widened his eyes firmly, with no hint of the weakness from before. They were uncertain as to when had he gotten ready, but he had changed his clothes as well, and was ready to return at anytime.
"Sorry to bother you. And needing you to fetch me back as well."
"Kagetora, how's your injury? Is it okay not to see a doctor?"
"It's fine, just minor scratches. Sorry to have worried you."
After Takaya finished, he noticed the man, wearing a black Western-styled suit, standing by the door behind Ayako. All of a sudden the expression in Takaya's eyes grew sharp without reason, he stared at that man.
"I have come to fetch you back. Kagetora-sama."
"..."
Takaya did not know why he was angry, he stared at the other with a terrifying expression.
"... Why didn't you come immediately? Naoe."
The man addressed as Naoe looked at Takaya with a clear expression in his eyes.
"My deepest apologies. I've arranged for a car, it is downstairs. Shall we go."
Takaya stared at that man silently for a while, then fiercely turned his face away, ignoring his presence. He said to Yuzuru as he wore his shoes and tied the shoelaces.
"Sorry for bothering you, Yuzuru."
"It's okay. Are you leaving already?"
"Yeah. When everything has calmed down, I'll come visit you."
Takaya replied, he stood up and turned towards Yuzuru.
"Work hard on your exams!"
Takaya seemed to say 'Let's go', gesturing to the man in the black suit with his chin, and left the hall. The tall man briefly acknowledged Yuzuru, a long bundle of hair swayed broadly behind his back, he followed behind after Takaya.
Yuzuru observed that man called 'Naoe', he was still rather unaccustomed to it. Chiaki, with a complicated facial expression, saw them to the exit, sighing in a greatly exaggerated manner.
"No choice now. It's about time we roll. See ya, Narita. We'll come again when we're free."
"Ah, wait. Where are you guys staying now? I want to send the clothes over once they're washed, tell me the address."
"We'll come again to collect it."
"You idiot, Yuzuru-kun wants to know Kagetora's address. You're such a thickheaded brat."
Ayako scolded Chiaki, then said to Yuzuru.
"We'll be staying somewhere else tomorrow. Once we've decided on the hotel, we'll let you know. Don't worry too much about it, Kagetora's problems, we'll be responsible for taking good care of him."
"Ayako-san..."
"It's alright. Nee-san will never tell lies."
After saying 'Bye Bye', Ayako hurried Chiaki out of Yuzuru's apartment. Both of their figures faded away through the other side of the door. Yuzuru was left standing there with a dumbfounded expression.
Takaya...
***
Once they headed downstairs, there was no sign of Kotarou's car. It seemed like Takaya had set out in his car without waiting for them. Ayako was left with no other choice but to hitch a ride on Chiaki's Leopard.
"Looks like the kekkai is really showing some effect."
Ayako said as she turned back to look at the apartment.
"I met with the 'Ken En' in charge of Yuzuru-kun's security just now. He said no one has interfered recently. The apartment's kekkai seems to be effective, it should be alright for the time being."
"As long as the 'Seed of Evil Kings' is still frozen that is."
Chiaki inserted the key to start the car engine.
"No doubt it was Kenshin-kou who unleashed the Touketsu Nami, looks like even Nobunaga would find it hard to thaw. But how long can this actually last?"
"Did you really see him? The one who attacked with the Touketsu Nami at Itsukushima shrine was not Kagetora but Kenshin-kou? Is that true?"
"I don't know. Or maybe I was dreaming, I couldn't really tell."
He pushed the button on the side with his forefinger, the headlights illuminated the road ahead, which was dark and quiet with no sign of human activity.
"Nobunaga hasn't done anything attention-grabbing since the incident at Itsukushima. Just what is that bastard doing now and where? Doing nothing for such a long period of time, it's really weird."
"That's true. It's weird. After causing such a large disturbance, he's now quiet once again, it's honestly really strange."
"We've also been unable to grasp his whereabouts since then, just what's going on? What is the Devil Lord thinking?"
Saying this, Chiaki stepped on the accelerator. The car headed out into the night.
Nearly two years have passed since the incidents of Itsukushima.
After that, the battles of Yami Sengoku intensified unceasingly. Everyday, at different locations, fights between onshou would break out, a few destructive cases have also happened. Takaya and the others had no time for rest. No matter how many they exorcised, new onshou were resurrected over and over again, this futile task that did not seem to have any progress, caused them to feel frustrated. Once the battle grew intense, the onshou would begin to act willfully and make a scene. Destroying buildings, involving residents and so forth, the disturbances grew more frequent.
With regards to influence, there had been a fairly huge change in the division of power among the clans. The Takeda clan and its confederates were growing stronger by the day, and with this unrivaled power, an influx of vassals followed after as some of the dead chose to gather with the powerful. The news of Nobunaga's resurrection had sent huge shockwaves throughout the community of onshou nationwide. If one were to look at the broad picture, the situation of Yami Sengoku would ultimately end up as a clash of powers between the Oda and the Takeda.
"However, in the light of this situation, Kagetora really didn't get any rest."
Ayako rested her head against the back of the seat and muttered.
"Organizing the 'Ken En' that are scattered all over the place, giving out orders after analyzing the intelligence gathered by the white-robed ladies, this is something really difficult to do. He's truly extraordinary. With the amount of information that he's handling, he can still determine the appropriate instructions to give. If he weren't the general, the Uesugi would've long been finished."
"Really?"
"Of course. See for yourself, the look in the eyes of the 'Ken En' that are so full of trust and respect. It's the same as previously. They bore grudges against the Uesugi and yet have now become a long-standing team of onshou for the Uesugi. In the end, didn't they pledge their allegiance to Kagetora? Also, Ukita Hideie. It is because of Kagetora that he is so deferent to the Uesugi. People who have perspective, even the onshou, would realize the strength of our Kagetora."
"You've always worshipped that brat since the ancient times."
"That's right. I worship him. I respect him a lot. Anything wrong with that?"
"No, not at all."
Chiaki chewed the cigarette in his mouth, he turned right at the cross junction.
Within these two years, Takaya had accomplished splendid feats that would cause one to stare in awe. As the tower of command of the Uesugi, a person standing at the very top, Takaya exhibited his strength with great eloquence. With an attitude of never pandering to others, a determination that did not yield to the tough stubbornness of others, it drew people to him, so much that at times the high-ranking officer of the enemy would suffer correction and submit. As for those onshou, Takaya did not know if they should be used to boost the military strength of the Uesugi, but he did not exorcise them. Much like the way Kenshin had operated previously, he pardoned and allowed them to become their own comrades.
The position of the Uesugi was certainly that way initially - an independent, policing force that did not change. But on closer inspection, one would discern that the influence of the Uesugi had matured to the point where it could contend with the Oda, the Takeda and the other clans in terms of power.
"...That brat has certainly done a pretty good job."
"?"
"I'll admit this much. How is it that we can't find that uncle Irobe no matter how hard we look, that man who's now called 'Naoe' has also become a part of the Uesugi, but he doesn't have 'exorcism powers'. What should be the heart of the Yashashuu's military strength has obviously been diminished by two members. For the Uesugi to still be able to completely function as usual and carry out all those operations, we have the strength that brat alone to thank. So much that the clan is growing stronger. Solving all the problems by himself, even making reparations in the necessary areas. So utterly perfect that it would cause one to hate him. And as if he wasn't satisfied enough, even our enemies have now been won over to our side, allowing them to help us. That brat is honestly too much."
"..."
"Naoe is obviously no longer in this world."
Chiaki's words were full of bitterness, causing Ayako to become gloomy.
"Didn't we promise not to talk about this?"
"Two years have flew past since he died..."
Since that incident, Chiaki and Ayako had clung onto that one in a million chance of finding him and had conducted a desperate, meticulous search for Naoe. The scene had underwent spiritual examination, they had also tried calling out to him. However, they could not detect the slightest hint of a reply to indicate his soul's existence. Believing that even if he could not possess, perhaps it was possible that the form of his soul still existed. They had requested the help of the 'Ken En' and the white-robed ladies to search every single corner throughout the entire country.
There had been no answer.
They could only come to the conclusion that Naoe had been purified.
But, Takaya could not feel that disappointment at all.
"That wretch..."
Chiaki inhaled the cigarette smoke, stepping on the accelerator forcefully.
"Just watching him would cause one to vex."
"Nagahide, that matter..."
"He doesn't know anything at all. Unexpectedly self-hypnotizing himself. I've never seen such an extreme way of escape. Even now, I still don't accept it. I definitely won't forgive him for using this sort of method to escape."
"Nagahide."
"Suddenly seeing that brat Kotarou as Naoe..."
Mumbling in an austere manner, Chiaki stared ahead.
"Damn asshole..."
Ayako, feeling uncomfortable, grew silent. Several orange street lights flickered in the harbor. The shores were freezing cold at one hour past midnight.
Original fiction © Kuwabara Mizuna.
Draft: Version 1 - final
Notes: 宇喜多秀家 Ukita Hideie; 品川 Shinagawa; 箕輪城 Minowa jo (castle); 上野 Ueno (in Tokyo); 上州Joushuu; 房總/房总 Bousou (it's a peninsula)
PS: do not distribute this without my permission
When the visitors rang the doorbell of Yuzuru's room all of a sudden, it was already late at night. Yuzuru, currently preparing for his exams, woke up in a start after having dozed off. The doorbell rang over and over again through the quiet room.
Who could it be? At this hour...
The visitors almost wanted to wake the entire neighborhood up by continuing to ring the doorbell furiously. Not only that, the door of the apartment was being pounded upon fiercely, the situation was honestly unusual. No matter how perfect the soundproof dividers of the apartment were, this sort of noise was unbearable. Yuzuru, startled, answered the intercom.
"It's me, Narita. Hurry up and open the door!"
The voice astonished Yuzuru.
"Chiaki? Is that Chiaki! What happened? Why have you suddenly, at this hour..."
"Open the door now! This brat Kagetora has..."
Yuzuru did not wait for Chiaki to finish and ran to the entrance. When he opened the door, the figures of two people were reflected in his eyes. Yuzuru could not help but yell out.
"Takaya!"
Supported by Chiaki Shuuhei's shoulders was Ougi Takaya. Takaya had sustained severe injuries, his entire shirt was soaked in blood. At first Yuzuru thought that he had gotten into a fight with someone, but this was obviously not the case. His clothes had been torn by a blade-like object in a sophistic manner, making his shirt look tattered, on his face were gashes that looked as though he had been scratched by the paw of an animal.
Takaya, his entire body limp, was supported by Chiaki. He lifted his head slightly at Yuzuru.
"Yuzuru...?"
"You idiot! What did you do! How did you get such serious wounds...!"
"Don't shout, Narita. The injuries aren't that serious. Do you have any extra change of clothes? We can't just return to the hotel like that."
Chiaki asked, dragging Takaya roughly into the apartment.
"Come into this room!"
Yuzuru opened the door of the bedroom to let them in, Chiaki then placed Takaya on the bed.
"Idiot... The blood will be smeared onto the sheets..."
Takaya said, wanting to get up, however he was immediately held down by Chiaki.
"You be obedient now. Narita, bring me a moist towel! Also a gauze and bandage! Or just bring the whole medical kit here!"
As Chiaki gave instructions, Yuzuru ran all over the place preparing the things he had requested. Chiaki carefully peeled off Takaya's upper garment, allowing him to remove the shirt that had been stained with blood, he skilfully wiped away the blood around his neck with the towel until he was clean. Fortunately the wounds were not as deep despite the numerous cuts. Yuzuru, bringing a change of clothes, looked at Takaya worriedly.
"Are you okay?"
"Sorry to bother you, Yuzuru. You're preparing for university exams now, aren't you? I've... given you more trouble..."
"It's okay. But really, just what on earth happened?"
"Same old same old. Fought with monsters."
Chiaki said, while cleaning the wounds with the gauze.
"This is all your fault, Kagetora. You got injured because you let your guard down when you fought with that pip-squeak."
"It hurts...!"
The disinfectant permeated the wound, Takaya grimaced.
"Can't you be a little more gentle...! Clumsy fool!"
"Serves you right, you big idiot."
Yuzuru, listening to their bickering, apparently felt that everything was fine. From the surface, it seemed that the wounds were not as deep as he had imagined, they should not be too serious. Anyhow, he could only heave a sigh of relief.
"I'll go make some hot coffee. Put the dirty shirt over there, I'll take it for washing. Don't feel uncomfortable at my place, just take a good rest."
After saying this, Yuzuru temporarily left the room.
Narita Yuzuru now stayed at a rented apartment in Tokyo's Shinagawa area. After successfully graduating from high school in the previous year, he had left Matsumoto to stay in Tokyo alone as he had been accepted into the Tokyo Dental University of his dreams. By reckoning, ten months had passed swiftly since the day he moved into this apartment. With respect to university matters, they were currently having examinations.
Takaya watched Yuzuru as he left the room, then sighed deeply. He lied down on the pillow.
"Why did you bring me here?"
"I had no choice, did I? How nice would it be to return in that sort of condition where your clothes are in tatters and soaked in blood. It'd definitely cause the receptionist to call the police. This was the nearest place. Just change your clothes, idiot."
"... This isn't a place that we can just simply crash in anytime, right? If Yuzuru were to fail his exams, it'll be your fault."
"Well he's not like some people."
Chiaki handily wound up the unused bandages, he surveyed the inside of the room.
"While other people are returning home, rushing all over the place, this obnoxious brat Narita is still here in this high-rise apartment... Haha, how hateful. This young master of a rich dentist simply would not understand the toil of a person's life."
Yuzuru was staying on the seventh floor of a ten-storey apartment, which was a five minute walk from the bus station, a fairly comfortable one room-one hall unit with a kitchenette and attached bathroom, it was a rather big place for just one occupant. The university that Yuzuru was now enrolled in was not far from this place either. They had heard that it was the same institution Yuzuru's father had studied at. Even though there was a dental university in Matsumoto, Yuzuru had mentioned that he wanted to live by himself away from his parents, hence decided to attend this university in Tokyo. His parents had allowed him to do so, saying that 'this is a kind of training to prepare him for adulthood'.
Takaya sighed softly and muttered.
"One year has passed... Since Yuzuru came to Tokyo."
"That's right. Time really flies. While we were patrolling the entire country, that brat was but enjoying his merry little university life."
"But if he's in Tokyo, there'll be more chances to meet up with him."
Takaya sighed after he finished and looked up at the ceiling, he pressed his eyelids with his fingers.
"What happened to that guy who escaped? Did you chase him down?"
"Don't worry. He has been settled with no remains. Probably was an aide of Nagano Narimori. He must've been the person who was buried alive as a sacrifice together with him when he committed seppuku. Bastards who just love to do foolish things. Even if one were to die together with others, no good will ever come out of it."
"... Settling the Nagano should be a good thing, but in the end it would only be advantageous to the Takeda."
Takaya sighed again. Nagano Narimori, whom he had exorcised, was formerly the lord of Minowa Castle in the state of Ueno. He was the son of the famous Nagano Narimasa. After his father died, he suffered an attack by Shingen, remorsefully committed seppuku and died. To Takeda Shingen, for the longest time the Nagano clan was considered to be 'their greatest enemy in the Joushuu district'. In Yami Sengoku, the Nagano clan and Shingen had been resurrected as onryou at about the same time but owing to the Takeda's invasion of Joushuu, which drove them out of Minowa Castle, they have now allied themselves with Awa of the Satomi clan in order to recover their daimyo's castle. By carrying out guerrilla warfare, they fought fiercely against the Takeda.
Besides the Chiba Prefecture, the Kanto region was now almost entirely under the power of the Takeda. The Hojo was destroyed after the incident at Nikko, and in the two years that passed, the influence of the Takeda had expanded in leaps and bounds. The territory that once belonged to the Hojo had been seized by the Takeda in one military sweep, other generals could not even take advantage of the opportunity. At present, it could be said that the land encompassed by the Kanto region was dyed in the colors of the Takeda. But it was because of this reason that a tenacious resistance was underway by the Satomi and the Nagano clans in one area of the Bousou peninsula, causing the Takeda a great deal of exasperation.
"But we don't have a choice. We can't just ignore the Nagano and let the residents continue to be involved in the incidents."
"... That's true."
Not knowing if it was because his wounds hurt, Takaya felt some pain thus closed his eyes, using his hand to comfort the bruises he had received from Narimori.
"Reassure the 'Ken En', who have done their best to provide assistance, on my behalf. Tell them their efforts are appreciated."
"Mmm. I'll pass on the message."
Chiaki had packed away the bandage roll, he stretched his body slightly.
"... Don't bother about that, the problem is you. Kagetora."
"...?"
"Sustaining this sort of injuries, it's not that you took Narimori lightly, right? Also, the condition of the scene after the fight. If it was just him alone, it's impossible that you would incur this extent of a devastation."
Chiaki had seen through it.
"Did you lose control of your powers again?"
Takaya turned away quietly. This seemed to be a matter he was unwilling to discuss, Takaya cast his look aside with displeasure. Chiaki, seeing his behavior, understood it and continued to say.
"Don't hide it. Even if you do, it's pointless. It's obvious with just one look at the destruction."
"That was because Narimori resisted."
"It can't be, right? With your strength, it should've been easy for you to suppress Narimori. Even if you didn't topple the walls of the warehouse, you tore up the asphalt pavement right? ... If I I could it."
"..."
"It was because your powers broke loose. Isn't that right?"
"Not to the extent of losing control."
Takaya stared at Chiaki fiercely.
"It was only a slip of the hand."
"And because of your slip, you killed the hyouza?"
Takaya halted in his speech, he stared at Chiaki bitterly. Chiaki disregarded Takaya's manner, arrogantly folded his arms, and leaned against the back of the chair.
"Looks like it'd be better if I carried on with the treatment."
"I don't need it anymore."
"I'm saying this because you need it. Now you've already killed one hyouza that should've been saved!"
"I didn't kill him!"
Takaya retorted in all seriousness.
"I might have injured him, but I didn't kill him!"
"You can't be sure of that yet. Even though we called the ambulance, he had already sustained severe wounds. The odds of him being saved is probably about 50-50. At least if you had been able to control your powers, the hyouza wouldn't have received that grave an injury. Am I correct?"
Takaya could not say anything to refute, he could only look at Chiaki painfully.
"Until you can control your powers 100% like previously, I'll continue with the treatment. This isn't for your sake. I don't want to get injured because of your predicament. To prevent your powers from going out of control we must continue with the treatment. To be safe, you must go through one 'enforcement hypnosis' per day. Understood?"
Even though Takaya was unwilling, he felt downcast and had no choice but to nod.
"Good. That's good."
"--I want to drink some water..."
Seemingly tired, Takaya lied down on the bed weakly, rolling up his sleeves.
"I want cold water, can you get that for me?"
"What a truly tough general you are."
Chiaki said as he got up from his chair.
"I'll go get it. You just rest a bit."
"Naoe..."
Takaya mumbled. Chiaki, a little startled, shifted his gaze.
"Contact Naoe, I want him to pick me up. We can't disturb Yuzuru's study. We'll return to the hotel tonight."
"... Mmm. I'll contact him."
Chiaki replied in a muffled voice and left the room. Once the door closed, the inside of the room turned pitch black. Takaya, lying on the bed, had already closed his eyes.
- Chiaki finds Yuzuru in the kitchen making coffee, tells Yuzuru to give Takaya a glass a water - Takaya would be more at ease if it were Yuzuru
- Chiaki then drops himself down on the sofa, sighing deeply; notices the song playing - a very popular one at the moment; then Chiaki criticizes him being such a pampered rich man's son, thinks Yuzuru has probably never worked before
- Chiaki, like the rest, keeps thinking Yuzuru wants to be a doctor; Yuzuru is studying dentistry
- Yuzuru starts being firm with Chiaki for letting Takaya get so badly wounded; Chiaki says he lectures like an old man
- Yuzuru takes a glass of water to the bedroom; Takaya has fallen asleep probably out of fatigue
- Takaya had not told Yuzuru about the incident of Itsukushima but Chiaki had told him so Yuzuru knows he had been used by Nobunaga and what it means to have the Seed planted in him; in fact Yuzuru's memories during that time are fuzzy, like he was having a nightmare
- Yuzuru did cry bitter tears over his lack of strength and whole situation, but ironically it is because he had been targeted by Nobunaga that he could continue to be friends with Takaya, although he can't admit that it's better this way since it poses a risk to Takaya and the others
- the thing that irks Yuzuru the most is that the Takaya now is no longer the Takaya that he once knew due to all the things that have happened, however Takaya has never changed in his attitude towards Yuzuru (although Yuzuru suspects this is because Takaya doesn't want him to worry)
- Yuzuru hates himself for becoming a person who's suspicious of others so much that Takaya has become someone that can't be fully trusted to him
- Yuzuru remembers that in high school Takaya seemed more street smart than other students although he had a kind of naiveté in his face; every time Yuzuru goes to a gathering or reunion of his former high school classmates, they would always ask what was Takaya up to now and he had to be vague with his answers ('He's doing fine')
- but the one who was pitiful was Miya (Takaya's sister), who is already a senior high school student; Takaya only let his family know that he was working in Tokyo; Yuzuru thinks that Takaya's past conflicts with his father could also be preventing him from returning to Matsumoto
- Yuzuru feels that Takaya's current life doesn't have future, to continue with this 'job' it'll only increasingly isolate him from society; Yuzuru wonders if Takaya has already let go of everything
- Yuzuru feels gloomy about Takaya's predicament, it's as if his life just stopped two years ago when he became more and more involved in battles against the onshou; Yuzuru only wants Takaya to lead a contented life
- just when Yuzuru decides to leave the room to let Takaya rest, Takaya awakens
- Takaya asks what song is playing; it's by 'Seeva', the main theme song of a movie; Takaya likes the song a lot
- Yuzuru then offers to make a copy for him there and then, but suddenly he remembers the concert tickets and persuades Takaya to go with him; Takaya says he'll try his best to go
- Takaya mentions that being at Yuzuru's place makes him feel very much at east and very warm; Yuzuru then tells him to stay as long as he likes but Takaya refuses, thinking it'd be better to return to the hotel, Naoe will be coming to fetch him
- Yuzuru is rather disappointed
***
One hour later, two people arrived to pick them up. Once the main door was opened, Ayako pushed Chiaki aside as she rushed into the apartment.
"Where's Kagetora... Kagetora, are you alright!"
"Hey, it's midnight. Lower your voice a little."
"Is he here? In the bedroom, right? Kagetora! Kage...!"
Just as Ayako was about to enter the bedroom, the door opened, Takaya emerged. It seemed as though he had heard her voice and had gotten up. Takaya, standing beside the door, widened his eyes firmly, with no hint of the weakness from before. They were uncertain as to when had he gotten ready, but he had changed his clothes as well, and was ready to return at anytime.
"Sorry to bother you. And needing you to fetch me back as well."
"Kagetora, how's your injury? Is it okay not to see a doctor?"
"It's fine, just minor scratches. Sorry to have worried you."
After Takaya finished, he noticed the man, wearing a black Western-styled suit, standing by the door behind Ayako. All of a sudden the expression in Takaya's eyes grew sharp without reason, he stared at that man.
"I have come to fetch you back. Kagetora-sama."
"..."
Takaya did not know why he was angry, he stared at the other with a terrifying expression.
"... Why didn't you come immediately? Naoe."
The man addressed as Naoe looked at Takaya with a clear expression in his eyes.
"My deepest apologies. I've arranged for a car, it is downstairs. Shall we go."
Takaya stared at that man silently for a while, then fiercely turned his face away, ignoring his presence. He said to Yuzuru as he wore his shoes and tied the shoelaces.
"Sorry for bothering you, Yuzuru."
"It's okay. Are you leaving already?"
"Yeah. When everything has calmed down, I'll come visit you."
Takaya replied, he stood up and turned towards Yuzuru.
"Work hard on your exams!"
Takaya seemed to say 'Let's go', gesturing to the man in the black suit with his chin, and left the hall. The tall man briefly acknowledged Yuzuru, a long bundle of hair swayed broadly behind his back, he followed behind after Takaya.
Yuzuru observed that man called 'Naoe', he was still rather unaccustomed to it. Chiaki, with a complicated facial expression, saw them to the exit, sighing in a greatly exaggerated manner.
"No choice now. It's about time we roll. See ya, Narita. We'll come again when we're free."
"Ah, wait. Where are you guys staying now? I want to send the clothes over once they're washed, tell me the address."
"We'll come again to collect it."
"You idiot, Yuzuru-kun wants to know Kagetora's address. You're such a thickheaded brat."
Ayako scolded Chiaki, then said to Yuzuru.
"We'll be staying somewhere else tomorrow. Once we've decided on the hotel, we'll let you know. Don't worry too much about it, Kagetora's problems, we'll be responsible for taking good care of him."
"Ayako-san..."
"It's alright. Nee-san will never tell lies."
After saying 'Bye Bye', Ayako hurried Chiaki out of Yuzuru's apartment. Both of their figures faded away through the other side of the door. Yuzuru was left standing there with a dumbfounded expression.
Takaya...
***
Once they headed downstairs, there was no sign of Kotarou's car. It seemed like Takaya had set out in his car without waiting for them. Ayako was left with no other choice but to hitch a ride on Chiaki's Leopard.
"Looks like the kekkai is really showing some effect."
Ayako said as she turned back to look at the apartment.
"I met with the 'Ken En' in charge of Yuzuru-kun's security just now. He said no one has interfered recently. The apartment's kekkai seems to be effective, it should be alright for the time being."
"As long as the 'Seed of Evil Kings' is still frozen that is."
Chiaki inserted the key to start the car engine.
"No doubt it was Kenshin-kou who unleashed the Touketsu Nami, looks like even Nobunaga would find it hard to thaw. But how long can this actually last?"
"Did you really see him? The one who attacked with the Touketsu Nami at Itsukushima shrine was not Kagetora but Kenshin-kou? Is that true?"
"I don't know. Or maybe I was dreaming, I couldn't really tell."
He pushed the button on the side with his forefinger, the headlights illuminated the road ahead, which was dark and quiet with no sign of human activity.
"Nobunaga hasn't done anything attention-grabbing since the incident at Itsukushima. Just what is that bastard doing now and where? Doing nothing for such a long period of time, it's really weird."
"That's true. It's weird. After causing such a large disturbance, he's now quiet once again, it's honestly really strange."
"We've also been unable to grasp his whereabouts since then, just what's going on? What is the Devil Lord thinking?"
Saying this, Chiaki stepped on the accelerator. The car headed out into the night.
Nearly two years have passed since the incidents of Itsukushima.
After that, the battles of Yami Sengoku intensified unceasingly. Everyday, at different locations, fights between onshou would break out, a few destructive cases have also happened. Takaya and the others had no time for rest. No matter how many they exorcised, new onshou were resurrected over and over again, this futile task that did not seem to have any progress, caused them to feel frustrated. Once the battle grew intense, the onshou would begin to act willfully and make a scene. Destroying buildings, involving residents and so forth, the disturbances grew more frequent.
With regards to influence, there had been a fairly huge change in the division of power among the clans. The Takeda clan and its confederates were growing stronger by the day, and with this unrivaled power, an influx of vassals followed after as some of the dead chose to gather with the powerful. The news of Nobunaga's resurrection had sent huge shockwaves throughout the community of onshou nationwide. If one were to look at the broad picture, the situation of Yami Sengoku would ultimately end up as a clash of powers between the Oda and the Takeda.
"However, in the light of this situation, Kagetora really didn't get any rest."
Ayako rested her head against the back of the seat and muttered.
"Organizing the 'Ken En' that are scattered all over the place, giving out orders after analyzing the intelligence gathered by the white-robed ladies, this is something really difficult to do. He's truly extraordinary. With the amount of information that he's handling, he can still determine the appropriate instructions to give. If he weren't the general, the Uesugi would've long been finished."
"Really?"
"Of course. See for yourself, the look in the eyes of the 'Ken En' that are so full of trust and respect. It's the same as previously. They bore grudges against the Uesugi and yet have now become a long-standing team of onshou for the Uesugi. In the end, didn't they pledge their allegiance to Kagetora? Also, Ukita Hideie. It is because of Kagetora that he is so deferent to the Uesugi. People who have perspective, even the onshou, would realize the strength of our Kagetora."
"You've always worshipped that brat since the ancient times."
"That's right. I worship him. I respect him a lot. Anything wrong with that?"
"No, not at all."
Chiaki chewed the cigarette in his mouth, he turned right at the cross junction.
Within these two years, Takaya had accomplished splendid feats that would cause one to stare in awe. As the tower of command of the Uesugi, a person standing at the very top, Takaya exhibited his strength with great eloquence. With an attitude of never pandering to others, a determination that did not yield to the tough stubbornness of others, it drew people to him, so much that at times the high-ranking officer of the enemy would suffer correction and submit. As for those onshou, Takaya did not know if they should be used to boost the military strength of the Uesugi, but he did not exorcise them. Much like the way Kenshin had operated previously, he pardoned and allowed them to become their own comrades.
The position of the Uesugi was certainly that way initially - an independent, policing force that did not change. But on closer inspection, one would discern that the influence of the Uesugi had matured to the point where it could contend with the Oda, the Takeda and the other clans in terms of power.
"...That brat has certainly done a pretty good job."
"?"
"I'll admit this much. How is it that we can't find that uncle Irobe no matter how hard we look, that man who's now called 'Naoe' has also become a part of the Uesugi, but he doesn't have 'exorcism powers'. What should be the heart of the Yashashuu's military strength has obviously been diminished by two members. For the Uesugi to still be able to completely function as usual and carry out all those operations, we have the strength that brat alone to thank. So much that the clan is growing stronger. Solving all the problems by himself, even making reparations in the necessary areas. So utterly perfect that it would cause one to hate him. And as if he wasn't satisfied enough, even our enemies have now been won over to our side, allowing them to help us. That brat is honestly too much."
"..."
"Naoe is obviously no longer in this world."
Chiaki's words were full of bitterness, causing Ayako to become gloomy.
"Didn't we promise not to talk about this?"
"Two years have flew past since he died..."
Since that incident, Chiaki and Ayako had clung onto that one in a million chance of finding him and had conducted a desperate, meticulous search for Naoe. The scene had underwent spiritual examination, they had also tried calling out to him. However, they could not detect the slightest hint of a reply to indicate his soul's existence. Believing that even if he could not possess, perhaps it was possible that the form of his soul still existed. They had requested the help of the 'Ken En' and the white-robed ladies to search every single corner throughout the entire country.
There had been no answer.
They could only come to the conclusion that Naoe had been purified.
But, Takaya could not feel that disappointment at all.
"That wretch..."
Chiaki inhaled the cigarette smoke, stepping on the accelerator forcefully.
"Just watching him would cause one to vex."
"Nagahide, that matter..."
"He doesn't know anything at all. Unexpectedly self-hypnotizing himself. I've never seen such an extreme way of escape. Even now, I still don't accept it. I definitely won't forgive him for using this sort of method to escape."
"Nagahide."
"Suddenly seeing that brat Kotarou as Naoe..."
Mumbling in an austere manner, Chiaki stared ahead.
"Damn asshole..."
Ayako, feeling uncomfortable, grew silent. Several orange street lights flickered in the harbor. The shores were freezing cold at one hour past midnight.
Original fiction © Kuwabara Mizuna.
