After parting ways with Scarlet and Azure in the capital, Suzuran and Yuzuki spent the next week journeying towards Opal's Reach. They enjoyed each other's company throughout. Each night at camp, a playful barrage of compliments erupted between them, like a pair of lovestruck women. Laughter and shared stories filled the air as they delved into their past adventures. One particularly grueling day found them stumbling upon a vast goblin den. Wave after wave of goblins, goblin mages, and savage wolves assaulted them. While the combat posed little threat to either one, the sheer volume of enemies stretched the encounter into an hour-long fight. Yuzuki emerged with a deep gash in her inner thigh, courtesy of a goblin archer. Thankfully, it wasn't life-threatening.

Exhausted but victorious, they settled into camp that night. Despite their fatigue, Suzuran insisted on tending to Yuzuki's wound. Though their lips had met on numerous occasions, their intimacy hadn't ventured beyond those passionate encounters.

"Yuzuki, to treat that wound properly, I'll need you to remove your shorts," Suzuran stated firmly, her focus solely on the injury.

A blush painted Yuzuki's cheeks. Her mind, already wandering into suggestive territory, stammered a protest.
"Suzuran, there's no need for that!" Yuzuki stammered, her voice laced with embarrassment.

Suzuran's gaze flickered to the growing stain on Yuzuki's leg. Concern etched itself onto her features.

"Yuzuki, the wound is bleeding freely. Please, take them off before it worsens."

Yuzuki, with a mixture of reluctance complied. The proximity to Suzuran, now positioned between her legs, sent a jolt of electricity through her.

"For this to be effective, you'll need to sit and open your legs a bit wider," Suzuran directed, her voice devoid of any ulterior motive.

Yuzuki struggled, not from pain, but from the overwhelming desire building within her. Here was Suzuran, the girl she had feelings for, dangerously close to a very sensitive area. Despite the throbbing ache in her leg, a different kind of heat pulsed between her thighs.

"This might sting a little. Just try to relax," Suzuran warned gently.

Suzuran pressed a medicated bandage against the wound, causing a sharp gasp from Yuzuki.

"Oh gods, Yuzuki, I'm so sorry," Suzuran apologized, her voice laced with concern as she witnessed Yuzuki's pain.

"It's alright," Yuzuki gritted out, determined to maintain her composure. "Just get it over with."

"Just a moment longer. The ointment needs to reach the entire wound to prevent infection," Suzuran explained, gently repositioning Yuzuki's leg for better access.

The touch of Suzuran's hands on her exposed skin sent a fresh wave of arousal crashing over Yuzuki. Her heart hammered against her ribs, she could feel Suzuran's warm breath tickling her inner thigh. 'This torture needs to end,' Yuzuki thought frantically.

Just then, a final sting from the ointment coincided with the tightening of the bandage.

"There, all done!" Suzuran chirped optimistically, contrast to the storm of emotions brewing within Yuzuki. Suzuran retreated a step.

Yuzuki's ragged breaths and sheen of sweat sent concern through Suzuran. She reached out, placing a cool hand on Yuzuki's forehead to check for a fever. "Are you alright? You seem a little pale."

"You feel normal," Suzuran murmured, her brow furrowing. Then, a spark of understanding ignited in her eyes as they met Yuzuki's. The raw desire blazing there was unmistakable.

Without warning, Yuzuki surged forward. Suzuran found herself sprawled across the unfurled bedroll, Yuzuki's weight pinning her down.

"Yuzuki! What are you—" Suzuran's question died on her lips as Yuzuki devoured her in a fierce, possessive kiss. Their bodies pressed together, a tangle of limbs and surging desire. Time seemed to melt away, desperate touches igniting a fire that had been simmering beneath the surface.

"So that's what that was all about," Suzuran gasped between kisses, a playful glint in her eyes finally breaking the intensity.

Yuzuki, cheeks flushed a brilliant crimson, finally tore herself away, straddling Suzuran's hips. "I’m sorry, Suzuran. I… your touch… I just couldn't help myself."

Suzuran chuckled. Reaching up, she cupped Yuzuki's face, her thumb tracing a path across Yuzuki's bottom lip. Then, Suzuran leaned in, their lips meeting in a slow, passionate kiss. A thin strand of saliva stretched between them for a moment before breaking. Exhaustion finally claimed them, giving way to a peaceful slumber intertwined in each other's arms.

The cool morning air greeted Yuzuki as she stirred awake. She stretched, pushing a stray strand of hair out of her face. Reaching out, she felt the warmth of another body nestled beside her. A jolt of surprise shot through her as she realized she was only in a loose top and underwear. Panic clawed at her throat. Her gaze darted to Suzuran, finding her similarly undressed and fast asleep beneath the bedroll.
"Oh god, did we have sex and I don’t remember it?" Yuzuki thought frantically.

Just then, Suzuran stirred, her voice heavy with sleep as she spoke. "Morning, sleepyhead." She peeked out from under the covers, noticing Yuzuki's wide-eyed stare. "What's wrong?"

"Suzu…Did we… uh… do it last night?" Yuzuki stammered, her voice barely a whisper.

Suzuran's sleepy smile broadened into a full-fledged laugh. She reached out, pulling Yuzuki back down beside her, and snuggled close. "No," Suzuran murmured, her voice warm and reassuring. "We didn't."

Yuzuki's brow furrowed. "Why are we both undressed then?" she questioned, her voice laced with lingering worry.

"You were sweating like crazy last night and I didn't want us to wake up soaked. So, I took the liberty of making us a bit more comfortable." Suzuran closed her eyes again, the warmth of Yuzuki a comforting presence beside her. With a contented sigh, Yuzuki snuggled closer and went back to sleep.

An hour later, they awoke, the remnants of sleep clinging to them. They packed their belongings, eager to reach Opal's Reach. Their journey south towards the coast continued. By mid-morning, the town itself emerged on the horizon, perched precariously on the edge of a cliff. As they approached, a group of children playing in a nearby field spotted the approaching duo.

"Suzuran!" The children's excited yells shattered the peaceful morning, their small figures racing towards the travelers.

Suzuran knelt with a warm smile as the children engulfed her in hugs. "It's good to see you all! Look at how much you've grown!" Her laughter echoed through the field.

A little girl, barely past Yuzuki’s knees, tugged on Suzuran's shoulder. "Miss Suzuran! Kurami just came back into town just recently!"

Suzuran's eyes lit up. "Kurami's back? Perfect!"

 

She scooped the giggling girl up for a playful spin before setting her down gently. "We missed you, Suzuran!" the children chorused in unison.

"Missed you all tons!" Suzuran replied, kneeling once more. "Maybe later, little ones, we can play! I have to find 'big sis' Kurami first," she explained, using the children's affectionate nickname for Kurami.

As Suzuran interacted with the children, Yuzuki watched, captivated. The way the children gravitated towards Suzuran, the genuine love and respect in their eyes, only deepened Yuzuki's feelings.

"See you later, alright?" Suzuran waved goodbye to the children, taking Yuzuki's hand and leading her into the bustling town. Warm greetings and welcomes followed Suzuran as they walked. Their path climbed steadily, navigating the winding streets that snaked up. Finally, they reached a charming little wooden house perched near the peak.

"Home sweet home," Suzuran announced. They entered the house, Suzuran calling out, "Anyone home?"

A head peeked around the corner from the kitchen, a familiar face breaking into a wide grin. "Oh, Suzu! You're back!"

An elderly woman, her features marked by the passage of time but her eyes sparkling with vitality, emerged. She was a shark demi-human, just like Kurami.

"Grammy!" Suzuran cried, rushing to embrace the woman in a fierce hug.

"Good to see you back, little lady," the woman chuckled, returning the hug warmly. "And who might this lovely lady be that you brought home with you?" she inquired, her gaze turning to Yuzuki.

Yuzuki's smile mirrored Suzuran's as they stood side-by-side. Suzuran cleared her throat, a hint of nervousness coloring her voice. "This is Yuzuki," she began, "my, uh... traveling companion."

 

It was clear Suzuran wasn't quite ready to tell the truth, and Yuzuki couldn't help but let out a soft, amused chuckle.

 

Grammy’s eyes twinkled with amusement, and extended a hand towards Yuzuki. "Welcome, young lady! Most folks call me Grammy. Hope your travels weren't too bad?"

"Wonderful, thank you," Yuzuki replied, her mind still pleasantly adrift on the previous night's events.

"Is Kurami home?" Suzuran inquired.

Grammy gave her head a gentle shake. "Nope, down by the coast helpin' the fishermen haul in their catch. Haven't stopped movin' since she got back."

Suzuran grinned. "Sounds just like Kurami, always playing the town hero, even if she isn't officially the chief."

"We'll go find her and see if we can rustle up some lunch for ourselves," Suzuran declared, taking Yuzuki's hand and leading her back outside.

"I’ll take care of lunch darlings!" Grammy called after them, her voice warm and filled with affection.

Before heading down to the coast, Suzuran decided to give Yuzuki a quick tour of the town. They continued up, the path leading them towards the very tip of the cliff. As they walked, Suzuran regaled Yuzuki with tales of her childhood, weaving stories of mischievous adventures with Kurami. Their laughter echoed through the air as Suzuran recounted their youthful escapades, then transitioned to stories of their growing maturity, their contributions to the town, and their shared experiences helping raise the children at the local orphanage. Yuzuki couldn't help but notice the conspicuous absence of Akame in these tales.

"Suzuran," she began hesitantly, "I don't mean to pry, but... why is Kurami always featured in your stories? What about Akame, was she not around much?"

Suzuran's smile faltered for a brief moment, but she quickly recovered. "It's not a big deal, Yuzuki," she brushed it off. "Kurami's family basically took Akame and myself in after we were forced to flee our old village. Akame wasn't around a whole lot, though. She started taking jobs a year after we moved here, trying to help out with expenses. Actually, she's the one who helped us afford the house Grammy and Kurami live in now."

Their walk continued, the path leading them to the very edge of the cliff. Here, a peaceful cemetery sprawled before them, a quiet resting place for the departed. They walked through the serene grounds, the silence broken only by the gentle chirping of birds, until they reached the cliff's tip. A small, weathered seating area, complete with a low wall offering a breathtaking panorama. From this vantage point, they could take in the entire town, their path winding down, the bustling marketplace below, and the vast expanse of the ocean stretching towards the horizon.

A shout, barely audible at first, drifted up from the base of the cliff. Suzuran's ears perked up, instantly recognizing the voice. Peering over the edge, she spotted Kurami barking orders at a group of fishermen below.

"Kurami!" Suzuran called out, her voice ringing across the expanse. To her surprise, Kurami looked up, her sharp eyes instantly finding Suzuran on the clifftop.

"Suzu! Is that you?! You're home already!" Kurami's voice held a mixture of surprise and delight. "Get your butt down here!"

"Grammy's whipping up lunch! How about we meet you back at the house?" Suzuran replied, her voice tinged with amusement.

"Lunch?!" Kurami echoed, her stomach clearly the deciding factor. She barked further instructions at the fishermen, efficiently wrapping up their task before setting off in a hurried dash towards the town.

Suzuran and Yuzuki shared a smile before retracing their steps. As they entered the house, they found Kurami already waiting.

"Little Suzu!" Kurami went in for a hug. "Grammy told me you had a lovely companion with you. Introduce me!"

Suzuran stepped back, gently nudging Yuzuki forward. "This is Yuzuki," she declared. "My traveling companion."

"Hello, Kurami," Yuzuki greeted politely. "As Suzuran said, I'm Yuzuki. We've been traveling together for almost two weeks now."

Kurami's gaze raked over Yuzuki, taking in her features with a calculating glint. "Two weeks, huh? And how did you two meet?"

Yuzuki, eager to answer, launched into a detailed explanation. "We first met in the capital, at the adventurer's guild. Then, by chance, we bumped into each other again at a blacksmith shop when she was having trouble getting her blade repaired."

Kurami nodded thoughtfully. "Interesting. And how old are you, Yuzuki, if you don't mind me asking?"

"Twenty," Yuzuki replied promptly.

"A wolf demi-human, I see," Kurami continued, her gaze scrutinizing Yuzuki with a practiced eye.

"Yes, that's right," Yuzuki confirmed, bracing herself for a barrage of questions.

"And did you start dating after leaving the capital?" Kurami continued with her final question.

"Ye—" Before Yuzuki could finish her response, a hand clamped over her mouth. Suzuran, her face flushed with comical panic, stood behind Yuzuki, effectively silencing her.

An awkward silence descended upon the room. Then, Kurami burst out laughing.

"Oh man, you two fell right into my trap!" Kurami exclaimed, wiping tears from her eyes.

"Forgive me, Yuzuki, but it was painfully obvious. No need to keep it a secret." Her smile softened. "Honestly, Suzu, I'm happy for you. You haven't exactly warmed up to people easily, and from our brief conversation, it seems you took quite a liking to Yuzuki very quickly."

Kurami's stern face softened a little. "Yuzuki, you wouldn't normally get a lecture from me, so consider this a heads-up from Akame," she said.

Yuzuki's worry etched itself on her face, but she squared her shoulders nonetheless.

"I'm sure Suzu told you I'm practically another sister to her and Akame," Kurami continued. Yuzuki offered a quick nod. "While Suzu will watch over you like she does the rest of us, I need you to promise me something: keep her safe."

Yuzuki's posture relaxed a fraction. The acceptance in Kurami's voice soothed a hidden fear. "I promise," she said, her voice firm.

"Even though our relationship is still new... I've never felt this way about anyone. Even in my line of work, where relationships were actively discouraged," Yuzuki glanced at Suzuran, a shy smile gracing her lips, before returning her gaze to Kurami, "I've never been so captivated by someone. Being around her just fills me with this warmth... I can't help but smile whenever I see her."

Kurami's smile was radiant, mirroring Suzuran's own, which was accompanied by a blush that could rival a summer sunset.

"That's all I needed to hear," Kurami said, her voice softer now.

Grammy's voice boomed from upstairs. "What's all the giggling about down there, you girls?"

"Nothing!" the three girls chorused, erupting in laughter.

Grammy sauntered into the kitchen and called out with a playful lilt, "You know, Kurami, if you wanted to find out if they were a couple, you could have just asked me. It was written all over their faces the moment they walked through the door."

The girls' faces turned a matching shade of red, then dissolved into laughter once more. "Grammy, how in the world do you do that?" Kurami exclaimed. "I swear, you must have some kind of super-hearing."

Grammy chuckled. "Ladies, remember, separate rooms under my roof."

Suzuran's jaw dropped. "But Grammy!" she whined, mimicking a child's tantrum.

Grammy peeked around the corner, fixing Kurami with a knowing stare. "No buts, Suzuran. You know the rules, and you know who made them necessary."

Kurami sheepishly glanced between the two girls. Suzuran knew exactly what Grammy was referring to - Kurami's wild younger years, filled with late-night male companions and the unfortunate (and loud) consequences. The frustrated moans that often erupted from Kurami's room had earned her a stern lecture and a swift eviction for each unfortunate boy.

Yuzuki couldn't help but giggle. "It's okay, Suzuran. We'll manage."

Suzuran pouted, but Yuzuki ruffled her hair affectionately.

"Grammy!" Yuzuki called out. "Would you like some help preparing lunch?"

"Yes, dear! Oh Suzu, I like her already!" Grammy declared, causing Suzuran and Yuzuki to exchange a knowing smile before Yuzuki dashed off to join Grammy in the kitchen.

Kurami grabbed Suzuran's arm, practically dragging her outside. "Grammy, while Yuzuki lends a hand, Suzu and I will be back in a few!" she declared.

They descended down a small path, Suzuran catching Kurami up on her adventures.

"Actually, Kurami, I ran into Akame just before heading to the capital," Suzuran blurted.

"How is she? Any big changes?" Kurami inquired, a flicker of concern in her eyes.

"Surprisingly good," Suzuran said, a hopeful smile gracing her lips. "She seemed more like her old self, you know, back when we were young."

Suzuran launched into a detailed account of Akame's recent behavior, the guild she was forming, the land she'd purchased, and the guild hall under construction. The mention of guild invites caused Kurami's brows to shoot up.

"She invited all of us? And bought land with a guild hall already on the way?" Kurami echoed, disbelief lacing her voice.

"Akame and I have been best friends since we were kids, even before you were born," Kurami said, a touch of wistfulness in her voice. "Back then, I could read her like a book. But ever since the loss of your village...it's like a wall went up. I can't seem to get a grip on who she is anymore."

Suzuran listened intently as they walked. "That's interesting," Suzuran said. "She seemed more…sisterly, somehow. And she wasn't alone."

Kurami's head snapped up. "Don't tell me she's seeing someone without telling me?!" Panic flickered in her eyes.

Suzuran burst out laughing. "No, no, nothing like that! Her companion's a woman named Kurohime. Much older than Akame."

"How did they meet?" Kurami pressed, curiosity battling with lingering worry.

"Apparently at a tavern on the way to Mahina Village," Suzuran said, recalling Akame's words. "Over a duel, I think?"

Kurami absorbed this new information, her mind racing.

"And Kurohime is from... hell?" Suzuran added cautiously, a note of confusion in her voice.

Kurami's eyes widened. "From HELL?! Are you sure Akame isn't being manipulated?"

Suzuran placed a hand on Kurami's arm, calming her rising anxiety. "It's okay! Kurohime didn't seem bad. From what Akame told me, we share a similar past. Akame said she could see it in her eyes."

Kurami's shoulders slumped in relief. "Now that sounds like your sister," she sighed. "Reading emotions... classic Akame."

"Let me run this by Grammy," Kurami mused, patting Suzuran's shoulder. "I can't abandon her, but you, Suzu, you're a grown woman now. Do what feels right."

Suzuran scuffed a pebble along the path, lost in thought. "I know. Joining her guild could be the way to reconnecting with her. It would be good to spend more quality time again."

"So, where to next after this visit?" Kurami inquired.

Suzuran sighed, gazing up at the vast expanse of sky. "Visiting Mom and Dad."

Understanding crossed Kurami's face. "It's been a while, hasn't it? Taking Yuzuki with you?"

Suzuran met her gaze. "Yes. If this relationship is going anywhere, she needs to know."

Kurami pulled Suzuran into a warm hug. "Good luck, kiddo. Give my love to your folks. I miss them dearly."

Suzuran offered a small smile before heading back inside with Kurami. After lunch, Kurami returned to the cove, lending a hand to the struggling fishermen. Meanwhile, Suzuran and Yuzuki sat out back, perched on the wall overlooking the ocean.

 

Suzuran, her head resting momentarily on Yuzuki's shoulder, asked, "How'd things go with Grammy while you were prepping lunch?"

Yuzuki giggled. "She's hilarious. I'm so happy you have someone like her in your family."

Suzuran's gaze softened, a deep sadness replacing the earlier spark. "Yuzuki," she began, reaching for her hand and intertwining their fingers. "I think it's time I told you about my past."

Yuzuki's breath caught as she saw the raw emotion welling up in Suzuran's eyes.

"Thirteen years ago, Akame and I lived in Whisperwind Village," Suzuran started, her voice thick with unshed tears. "Less than a week's journey north-west of here. The Kingdom of Obsidia was plagued by a bandit problem along its borders, and it started spilling over towards our village."

She let out a shaky sigh, her voice trailing off. "Everything after that is a blur. I rely on Akame's memories to piece it together."

"A large bandit force attacked our village," Suzuran continued, her voice trembling slightly. "They… killed everyone."

Yuzuki squeezed Suzuran's hand reassuringly, a knot forming in her stomach as she sensed the horror the story held.

"My mom and dad hid Akame and me in the basement," Suzuran explained, her voice barely a whisper. "They… tried to fight them off."

A sob escaped her lips as she choked back the rising tide of emotions. "Apparently, one of the bandits found them. He… he tried to take Mom away, but Dad fought back. He… he cut off the man's arm."

"His screams attracted more bandits," Suzuran continued, her voice trembling. "We could hear them above. Then… then we heard Dad screaming. It stopped abruptly, followed by Mom's cries calling out his name."

Yuzuki couldn't bear to see Suzuran relive the trauma. With a gentle touch, she turned Suzuran around and wrapped her arms around her, offering what comfort she could. Suzuran buried her face in Yuzuki's shoulder, tears streaming freely down her cheeks. Yuzuki held Suzuran close, her fingers stroked a soothing path down Suzuran's arms and across her tear-stained face.

"Akame… she panicked," Suzuran choked out, her voice muffled. "She went upstairs to see if she could help… and locked me in the basement. She told me not to come out until I heard one of their voices."

A fresh wave of terror washed over Suzuran. "I could hear Mom screaming, then Akame calling out her name over and over again. And then… silence. All I heard was Akame crying."

Taking a shaky breath, Suzuran continued her harrowing tale. "Then... this deafening noise. Wind howled like a banshee as it tore through the house above. The men's screams... they just cut off. Silence. A horrible, suffocating silence. All I could think about was the house collapsing, crushing everyone inside. Mom, Dad, Akame... all gone." Tears streamed down her face.

"The next thing I knew," she pressed on, "I heard Akame. She was calling my name, telling me it was time to go. I opened the basement door, my vision blurring with tears. There she was, Akame, covered head to toe in blood. She told me to close my eyes, and not to open them until she said so. We walked for what felt like an eternity, the only sounds my ragged breaths and the pounding of my terrified heart. Finally, when she felt we were safe, she let me open my eyes."

Yuzuki's grip remained firm. "How did you end up here?" she asked softly, her voice a soothing balm.

"The next morning, a traveling merchant found us unconscious by the side of the road. He thought we were dead, imagine his surprise when we weren’t. He took us in, offered us safe passage. We told him about Opal's Reach, and that's how we ended up here. We gave Kurami's family the news... and they took us in. Opened their home and their hearts to us. We've been here ever since." Suzuran let out a shaky breath.

 

Silence fell between them, broken only by the soft sniffles that still escaped Suzuran's lips. Yuzuki squeezed her tighter.

"Thank you for trusting me, Suzu," Yuzuki finally whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "And I'm so sorry. So incredibly sorry for everything you've been through."

"This is the first time I've ever wanted to cry this badly," Suzuran choked out between sobs, clinging tighter to her. "Maybe it's because I can finally let myself be vulnerable with someone." Her voice cracked.

After a time, Suzuran's sobs subsided.

Yuzuki leaned in, brushing a soft kiss against Suzuran's tear-streaked cheek. "What's next for us, then?" she asked. "Wherever you go, I'll follow."

A smile peeked through Suzuran's tears. Wiping them away, she met Yuzuki's gaze. "I want to visit Mom and Dad's grave," she said, her voice soft yet firm. "Would you mind coming with me?"

"Of course," she murmured, leaning in to capture Suzuran's lips in a calming kiss.

Just then, the jarring screech of the back door opening shattered the intimate moment. Suzuran and Yuzuki sprang apart. Standing in the doorway was Grammy.

"Don't worry, it’s okay for you two to be lovebirds around me," she chuckled. "Kurami's the one who I owe a buttkicking to, not you two."

A wave of relief washed over Suzuran and Yuzuki, replaced by a shared giggle. Grammy's easygoing nature put them at ease. Suzuran reached for Yuzuki's hand, intertwining their fingers again. Leaning her head against Yuzuki's shoulder.

Grammy's gaze softened, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "You two are a beautiful couple," she said, her voice laced with a lifetime of wisdom. "There will be challenges, ups and downs, that's the nature of life. But look at you now. This connection, this tenderness... fight for that. Let it be your anchor in the storm."

Suzuran lifted her head, a grateful smile gracing her lips. "Thank you, Grammy. We will," she promised, leaning her head back on Yuzuki’s shoulder.

​

The next day dawned bright and clear, the perfect start to their journey. Suzuran and Yuzuki set off, their backpacks laden with provisions for the four-day trek to Whisperwind Village. They said their goodbyes to Grammy and Kurami, promising to return soon. As they ventured deeper into the wilderness, Yuzuki couldn't help but notice a shift in Suzuran. While the physical affection remained, a shroud of quiet descended upon her. The closer they got to Whisperwind Village, the stronger this sadness seemed to grow. The landscape itself mirrored Suzuran's emotional state. The air, once vibrant and alive, grew eerily still. The chirping of birds faded, replaced by an unsettling silence.

​

By the final day of their journey, Whisperwind Village rose before them. Overgrown foliage choked the outlying buildings, leaving only a central core of structures untouched. An oppressive silence hung heavy in the air. A knot tightened in Yuzuki's stomach, as they stepped onto the path leading towards the heart of the village. While some houses remained standing, most had succumbed to the ravages of time and fire.
Suzuran's pace faltered as they entered the village. Each step seemed to carry the weight of a thousand unspoken memories. Yuzuki stayed close, her keen eyes scanning their surroundings for any sign of danger.

 

After a few halting steps, Suzuran stopped abruptly, her gaze fixed on a particular house. Tears welled up in her eyes, threatening to spill over. Yuzuki reached out, her hand gently enveloping Suzuran's. The warmth of the touch seemed to anchor Suzuran, offering a flicker of comfort amidst the storm of emotions.

Turning to Yuzuki, Suzuran managed a watery smile. "This is it," she rasped, her voice thick with emotion. "My childhood home. This is where everything fell apart for us."

Yuzuki followed her gaze to the house. The fire's destruction was evident, leaving behind a charred structure. But something about the destruction felt off. The encroaching foliage couldn't entirely mask the unnatural damage. A clean, impossibly straight section of the house had been cleaved away, as if by a blade.
Dismissing the thought for now, Yuzuki made a mental note to discuss it with Suzuran later. She didn't want to burden Suzuran's already fragile state.

Suzuran, still holding Yuzuki's hand, led her towards the back of the house, where two tombstones stood, marking the final resting place of her parents. As they approached, Suzuran stopped short.

"Akame… you've been here, haven't you?" she whispered, her voice tinged with emotions.

"What do you mean?" Yuzuki asked gently, her brows furrowed in confusion.

"The last time I was here," Suzuran explained, her voice catching slightly, "the gravestones were crumbling, barely holding together. I always thought about replacing them, but… the pain was always too raw. Akame must have felt the same. I know she visits often, she must have repaired them."

Together, they walked towards the graves. Suzuran knelt down, Yuzuki following suit. Her hand tightened in Suzuran's grasp.

"Hi Mom… Dad…" Suzuran began, her voice catching slightly. "I wanted to visit… and let you know that I'm doing okay. Actually, I'm doing a lot better than okay now."

A shaky breath escaped her lips. Taking a deep breath, she continued, her voice firming with resolve. "This was kind of sudden, but since I was already planning on coming here, I thought I'd introduce you to someone."

Suzuran turned to Yuzuki, her eyes so beautiful it took Yuzuki's breath away. Squeezing Yuzuki's hand with a gentle pressure, she spoke again.

"This is Yuzuki," she said, her voice soft yet firm. "I still am at a loss for words on how to describe her to you both, but I just wanted you two to know that she means the world to me. This connection we have… it was so unexpected, so out of the blue. But I'm so grateful she caught me off guard."

"Hello there," Yuzuki began, her voice filled with respect. "It saddens me that I will never have the chance to meet either of you. But I want you to know that I promise to give Suzuran everything – my loyalty, my unwavering protection, I will be her everything. Thank you for giving me the chance to be a part of your daughter's life, for allowing such an amazing woman to enter my life."

As the last rays of sunlight dappled the clearing, Suzuran leaned into Yuzuki, their lips meeting in a soft, tender kiss. They lingered there for a while, enveloped in the quiet intimacy, Suzuran sharing updates with her parents, filling them in on the events of the past few months. The setting sun cast long shadows.
Hours melted into dusk, and with a heavy heart, Suzuran finally decided it was time to leave. Saying goodbye, even to a memory, was never easy. But they turned their backs on the village and began the trek back.

As darkness descended, they stumbled upon a campsite abandoned by previous adventurers, which was a welcome sight. Yuzuki took charge of dinner, allowing Suzuran some quiet time to gather her thoughts. Suzuran, however, found herself drawn back to Yuzuki. After setting up camp for the night, she settled beside Yuzuki as she cooked, a comfortable silence settling between them.

The silence stretched, broken only by the crackling fire and the occasional chirp of a nocturnal insect.

 

Finally, Suzuran spoke, her voice soft. "You must have some questions after today, Yuzuki. I understand if you're curious."

Yuzuki met her gaze. "Only if you're comfortable with me asking, Suzu," she replied.

Suzuran nodded. Yuzuki recounted the details of Suzuran's story, making sure her memory was accurate. Suzuran listened intently, nodding in confirmation.

Suzuran's brow furrowed, a flicker of defensiveness crossing her features. "Do you think I'm lying?" she asked, her voice laced with a hint of hurt.

Yuzuki reached out, her touch gentle and reassuring. "Absolutely not, Suzu," she murmured, squeezing Suzuran's hand. "I trust you completely."

"There's something nagging at me though," Yuzuki admitted after a beat of silence. "It doesn't feel like the whole story. Like maybe there are pieces Akame isn't sharing."

Suzuran's earlier defensiveness had melted away, replaced with a flicker of curiosity. "Why do you say that?" she asked.

Yuzuki continued, "The way the house was destroyed... it doesn't match what you or Akame described, does it? The sudden noise, the feeling of everything collapsing..."

Yuzuki let out a breath. "The destruction itself... the clean cut through your house and the neighboring buildings – it doesn't seem like something caused by a collapsing house. More like..."

"Like what?" Suzuran’s voice edged with a hint of apprehension.

Yuzuki met her gaze, her own eyes filled with a growing unease. "...Like a blade had sliced through that section of the village, starting from your home."

Suzuran's face paled. The realization struck her like a physical blow. "I'll be honest" she whispered. "The last time I came here, I noticed that about our home too. But I thought it was just my emotions searching for something in place of my sadness, a way to make sense of the chaos. But if you're seeing it as well..." Her voice trailed off, a tremor running through her.

"Akame was the one who told me to close my eyes when we left the basement," Suzuran exclaimed, her voice trembling slightly.

Yuzuki knelt down in front of Suzuran, her touch a soothing balm. "Of course she did, Suzu," she said gently.

 

"And I'm sure she had a good reason. But there's this feeling..." she clarified, anticipating Suzuran's potential objection, "that you might want to dismiss if it feels out of line."

"Go on," Suzuran urged, squeezing Yuzuki's hand back.

"Have you noticed the lack of… remains?" Yuzuki asked carefully. "The bandits, I mean. Even after all this time, some traces should still remain. But there's nothing."

Suzuran's breath hitched. "What are you saying?" she whispered.

"I'm not sure at this point, Suzu," Yuzuki admitted. "What happened to their bodies? Why the silence during your escape?"

"I do agree, it was too quiet when we left the village," Suzuran whispered, her voice barely audible over the crackling fire. "I heard no fighting, no screams, nothing. It's like… they just vanished."

A heavy silence descended upon them, broken only by the occasional snap of a twig in the dying fire. Yuzuki squeezed Suzuran's hand.

"I never would want to paint your sister as someone evil, far from it," Yuzuki said softly. "Just a girl who would do anything to protect her little sister."

Suzuran met Yuzuki's gaze. "I… I think you're right. Akame wouldn't hide something like this with malicious intent. She was just… protecting me."

A smile touched Suzuran's lips. "Maybe I'll find the courage someday to ask her about it. To hear the whole story from her perspective."

"I agree," Yuzuki murmured, leaning in closer. "I'm sorry again for bringing it up. I felt this… this feeling, like something wasn't right. I just had to voice it."

Suzuran cupped Yuzuki's face in her hand, her thumb gently stroking Yuzuki's cheek.
"It's okay,," Suzuran whispered, her voice husky with emotion. "I'm glad someone finally pointed it out. And actually, I'm glad it was you."

A blush crept up Yuzuki's neck as she leaned into Suzuran's touch. "You trust your sister a lot, don't you?" she asked, her voice barely above a murmur.

"Akame has always had my back," Suzuran replied. "She's my older sister, and the bond we share is unbreakable. She'd do anything for me, just as I would for her."

A playful glint entered Suzuran's eyes. "Speaking of which, what do you think Akame will think of me bringing someone back with me? Especially someone… as amazing as you?"

"She'll… probably be protective," Yuzuki stammered, a blush blooming across her cheeks. "But I can handle a little protectiveness. As long as I get to keep seeing that smile."

Suzuran laughed. "Don't worry," she said, pulling Yuzuki close. "She'll be fine with you. I can feel it in my gut."
With a comfortable silence settling between them, they settled in for the night, their bodies intertwined for warmth. The embers of the fire cast an orange glow on their faces.

Three days later, they returned to Opal's Reach. The familiar sights and sounds of the bustling town brought a sense of relief. Suzuran, a genuine smile gracing her lips for the first time in years.

"How did things go?" Kurami greeted them, her gaze flickering between Suzuran and Yuzuki.

"Good," Suzuran replied.

Kurami raised an eyebrow. This was the first time she'd seen Suzuran return from visiting her parents' graves with such a positive light. "I see," she said, her voice laced with amusement. "Well, that's certainly a change."

Kurami's eyes then landed on Yuzuki. "Make sure to keep her smiling, Yuzuki,"

Yuzuki returned the nod, a blush creeping up her neck. Suzuran nudged her playfully and planted a quick kiss on Yuzuki's cheek." I think it's time to head off and see Akame after today, Kurami," Suzuran announced, a hint of excitement bubbling in her voice.

Kurami's smile widened. "If that's the case, I'll pack my things and join you as well," she declared, surprising both Suzuran and Yuzuki.

"Wait, are you coming with us?" Suzuran asked, her surprise giving way to delight.

"Of course!" Kurami chuckled. "I don't know if I'll join the guild just yet, but I do want to see Akame and catch up on what she's been up to these past years."

Suzuran's smile faltered slightly. "What about Grammy?"

"I've arranged for the kids from the orphanage to check on her every day and help her out while I'm gone," Kurami assured her, her smile returning. "I intend to come back at least one more time before I make a final decision, see what Grammy thinks as well."

With a plan in place, the next morning was a flurry of activity. They said their goodbyes to the tearful children and a slightly worried Grammy, promising to return soon. The journey to Akame's location was filled with activity. They picked up a couple of side commissions along the way, mostly delivery requests for small outposts between Opal's Reach and the guild's location. Two long weeks of travel later, the trio finally entered the area where the guild was supposed to be built. There was much anticipation between the three of them.

"Suzu, are you sure it's in this area?" Yuzuki asked, her voice laced with a hint of doubt. "We haven't seen anything yet."

"Akame said it's near a hilly area with a giant lake," Suzuran replied, scanning the horizon. "I see the edge of the lake in the distance. Maybe it's over that hill?"

A collective breath hitched in their throats as they crested the hill. The panoramic view that unfolded before them was breathtaking. Nestled within the valley wasn't just a guild – it was a small village.

"Wait, this can't be right, this isn't just a guild, it's a whole village!" Kurami exclaimed, voicing the shock and awe they all felt.

Suddenly, a shadow passed overhead. Instinctively, all three reached for their weapons, panic flaring in their chests. A glimpse of what could only be dragon wings sent their adrenaline soaring.

But then, Suzuran's expression relaxed. Recognition dawned in her eyes, replacing the initial panic. A slow smile spread across her face.

"Lower your weapons," Suzuran instructed, sheathing her own blades. "It's alright."

Kurami, however, remained on edge, her grip tightening on her weapon. "What do you mean it's fine, Suzu? This could be a damn dragon!" she hissed.

“Well, technically you're not wrong," she admitted, "but she's a friend.” Without waiting for Kurami's response, Suzuran strode forward, pulling a hesitant Yuzuki along with her.

"She?!" Kurami sputtered, her confusion warring with her lingering fear. "What do you mean?"

As the figure grew closer the silhouette got smaller and revealed itself to be a woman, the beat of her wings filled the air. Suzuran called out, her voice ringing with joy,"Good to see you again, Kurohime!"

The woman gracefully landed in front of them, her wings folding behind her and dispersing. It was indeed Kurohime.

"Good to see you again, Suzuran," Kurohime said with a purr. "I hope you've been well since we last saw each other."

"Of course! Things have been wonderful," Suzuran beamed. "Have you been taking good care of Akame?"

Kurohime let out a laugh. "As if there was anything for me to take care of, but yes, I've kept her out of too much trouble."

Kurohime turned her attention to Kurami, "And you must be Kurami, the one Akame has spoken so highly of."

Kurami, stammered a response. "Y-yes, I am. And I've heard a bit about you from… little Suzu."

"I'm sure we'll have plenty of time to catch up," Kurohime said with a sly wink. She then turned to Yuzuki, her gaze softening.

"And you must be the instructor that Scarlet and Azure raved about so much… Yuzuki, isn't it?"

"That would indeed be me," Yuzuki replied, her voice filled with warmth. "Glad to hear they made it here safely."

"Well then, now that the introductions are over, how about we head into the village and get you all settled in?" Kurohime said softly.

She gestured with her hand, indicating a path that wound down the hillside towards the village nestled below.

"Did my sister do all this?" Suzuran asked, her voice filled with a mixture of awe and disbelief as she gazed upon the village nestled in the valley.

Kurohime chuckled. "As far as the physical construction goes, no. But it was Akame's vision that brought this place to life. And her rather substantial financial backing."

"Who else is here?" Kurami chimed in.

"We've picked up a few new recruits along the way," Kurohime replied. "And someone you might be particularly happy to see, Kurami."

Before Kurami could press for more information, a jolt of electricity shot through her. "Hana?" she gasped, her voice barely a whisper. "You found her?"

A warm smile spread across Kurohime's face. "Akame was very determined," she said in her gentle voice.

Kurami's eyes welled up with tears, a mixture of relief and joy washing over her. Without a word, she bolted down the path, kicking up dust in her wake.

"She's at the blacksmith shop to the left of the guild hall!" Kurohime called after her.

Suzuran watched Kurami disappear into the village, a genuine laugh bubbling up from her chest. "I haven’t seen anything like this from Akame since I was young, I had almost forgotten that she could do stuff like this”

"Bringing friends and family together?" Kurohime prompted

Suzuran's smile softened. "My memories of childhood are a little hazy," she confessed, "but I do remember Akame always being the one to organize games and activities. She had a way of drawing people in, making everyone feel welcome."

The sounds of the village grew louder with each step as they got closer.

"Kurohime," Suzuran began, her voice soft, "I don't know how much truth there is to this, but… maybe you were the missing piece Akame needed. The one who helped bring back a sense of normalcy to her life."

Kurohime stopped, her gaze fixed on Suzuran. A wave of unexpected emotion washed over her. For the first time she felt something akin to belonging. The idea of a home, a place to protect not just physically, but emotionally, filled her with a fierce sense of purpose. Suzuran, noticing Kurohime's sudden stillness, turned back. Seeing she was lost in thought, she offered a gentle smile. With a playful nudge on Kurohime's arm, she urged her forward.

“Perhaps it's the other way around…” Kurohime thought to herself as Suzuran dragged her toward the towering mansion in front of them.

​

End