essence of butterfly | yunjae | 2/xx
Title: Essence of Butterfly
Chapter(s): 02/?
Author: sentimentalenvy
Genre: action, angst, historical, romance
Rating: R
Warnings: language, tobacco use, violence
Pairing: YunJae
Disclaimer: I do not own any known characters in this story.
Synopsis: The history of two family names collide, clashes and tangle in a way neither is willing to settle. Written stories told and never forgotten. Secrets are meant to be concealed; never unveiled. Two vessels wrapped in a love so taboo - venomous to the touch. And what is the purpose of a battle? Fought to conquer and prevail.
More on plunnie (if you're a jaeho_complex member): click here
Comment(s): Note 1: For moon1084’s birthday. X) Note 2: Also, this fiction is set back in the Meiji period (1868-1912).
Chapter Two
"Get him! Don't let him get away!"
Shit.
I catch a speedy figure slicing through a shroud of mist. It must be mine, but everything that had happened so far had been surreal,I don’t know anymore. My foot pummels into a puddle of rain water. My breath quickens in pace as I continue running down towards the bright light at the end of the forest. What I'm running from, I don't even know. I hear men calling out to me, and I assume I’m being chased, but I don’t take the chance to look back. My only instinct was to reach the light in front of me. Papa's voice rings out loud and soft as if he's calling for me - calling for my help - trying to help me find him. More twigs snap and slice against my cheeks and I distinctively felt shrubs clawing at my knees. But I continue running.
"Papa! Papa, where are you?!"
My pupils dilated from the sudden glare of the light, no doubt robbing me of my sight for a few seconds before dimming once more. There was Papa, standing right before me, reaching out to me with a soft smile. Although his smile was calm, I could tell the worry in his eyes that something was wrong. He tells me to come quickly and I reach out to him, my steps were heavy without caution, but determination and relief to be with him - to get out of here. My fingertips barely touch his, when I heard the sound of a sword, followed by Papa's groan of pain.
My eyes widen in horror and I find my hands bloodied. Letting out a frightened yelp, my eyes shift towards his stomach and I see a katana embedded deep into the vital organs of his stomach. I impulsively let out a scream and look up at the cruel being that had the heart to do such an abominable execution.
"Y-Yo-shi-m-mi-tsu...!" Papa groans, as he suddenly falls against me. He nearly pushes me down with his weight and I wince and let out a pained cry when I hear the eerie sound of his body sliding off the red lathered steel.
Yoshimitsu?!
I look up at this Yoshimitsu to see nothing but a black silhouette with a tainted blade glinting in the shrouded dark. My body shakes in fear and he points the katana at me, the tip of the blade threatening to pierce as it pointed at the tip of my nose. He brings the sword back and I realize that his intention was to kill me as well.
No...
I shake my head and plead as if he would heed to my mercy. I only hear a soft, cold, murmur of “die” and a whimper escapes me. The only thing running through my mind was the fact that I was going to die. My whole being shook at the sight of him fisting the sword towards my body. Mere seconds before I meet my doom, Papa suddenly quickly shields my body in place with his own. It took me seconds later to realize that the scream was coming from me.
NO! PAPA!!!
"AH!"
My head spun erratically, and I nearly shot out of my futon with a jolt, throwing my upper body forward. I felt the stretch of my pupils dilating as my eyes automatically made a quick scan of my surroundings, and I see one of my sisters lying next to me, seeming to be in a deep slumber.
Oh good...I haven't woken anyone...
My body still shuddered from the cold night but the goose bumps on my arms and the pounding of my chest never left me. It was that dream again...I can't believe I would still have
them...of Papa's death.
Papa was killed protecting Saeki during the yearly showdown between the Matsumotos and the Kinomotos. It wasn’t exactly official but somehow some people from both sides of our family always made plans to have this held annually behind our backs. Papa tried his hardest to stop Saeki from the match, and even though he had agreed, he went back on his word anyway. He never showed up into the public until the next evening of the fight. Though I wasn’t there, Mama told me it appeared that Saeki was winning in battle against some tyrant named Daisuke, but before he could draw his blade into the boy, the boy’s father had interfered and tried to strike Saeki from behind. But Papa had run in on time to block the attack, and thus, the battle between Papa and Yoshimitsu came to commence.
No, I can't think about that! Papa would've never wanted me to mourn over him like this. He specifically told me to keep the family away from the Matsumotos and out of trouble at all cost. But...no matter how many times I told Papa that this long history of rivalry wasn't going to end, he would not heed. I shook my head.
No...
It wasn't like he said I could stop it. Besides...I was only one person! But he did say to protect our family and friends. And when I asked him if it had to come to killing, I remember how tense he became. And I remember the grimace he had thought he'd hidden from me, grunted, and turned away without a word. I had the assumption that what must be done...had to be done.
I've always wanted avengement for what happened to Papa - this Yoshimitsu that murdered Papa in cold blood. But no matter where I searched, I couldn't find this man. The Matsumoto Yoshimitsus I've came across were nowhere affiliated with the Matsumotos. Perhaps my tracking skills needed serious honing. Ugh, I was only good for tracking animals and runaways. I sighed in uncomfortable distress, running my hand through the tresses of my hair. And Saeki was damn lucky he managed to get out of that fight with only cuts on his arms and legs. If it weren't for Junsu knocking him down and pulling him away…I wouldn’t have wanted to know the outcome.
I shut my eyes tightly and fisted my hair as if I pulled hard enough, all my problems would go away. But God knows that was only wishful thinking. Sometimes I allowed myself the illusion that everything was the way it was before - without the family drama - without our ancestors being the origin of our problems. No matter how you look at it, it started with them.
I often find myself asking the same question over and over again. When will it end? How many generations would have to suffer at the hands of our ancestors past? We were one of the same, were we not? We’re Japanese people. We shouldn’t be killing one of our own. I felt it was useless to even hope anymore.
“Are you insane?! Out of your mind?! Has your brain been blown to pieces for the kois to feast upon?!” Junsu hissed into my ear in a mid whisper as we walked along the streets of the town. Mama insisted on teaching the children today while she sent Junsu and me out to town to pick up some tofu for tonight’s dinner. I've finally told him the reason of my mysterious disappearings. Not that he would follow me. I believe he trusts me too much for that.
“Out of my mind? No. Rather impressed, and yes, I suppose I can be classified as insane.” I hummed, sailing my way along the street, dodging a laughing boy that nearly ran into my leg while chasing after his friend.
“Didn’t I just say that?”
“Yes, I suppose. Now what else did Mama say about what to bring back? Oh yes. Sake.”
“No,she did not,” Junsu huffed, fisting at my sleeve and jerking it towards his body. “Now tell me.” Junsu’s voice was almost a mere whisper now. “What are you thinking, involving yourself with a known enemy? Are you trying to put our family in danger or has the
safety of your family slipped your mind that you’ve forgotten?”
“I’ve never mentioned that I was acquainted with him, have I? You shouldn’t worry about that,” I sighed, stifling the bark that was threatening to spill from my throat. “I haven’t even talked to the man. What harm can come out of knowing a man who doesn’t know of my existence?”
“He knows of your existence. He just doesn’t know the face attached to the infamous name. You’re lucky we’re in a certain part of town that could care less about our family dilemmas. Why do you think your mother always forbids you to go much of anywhere else?” My cousin furrowed his brows and wearily looked away, as if collecting his thoughts for a moment. He turned back towards me. “Look, I know you want to venture the vast lands of Japan. Maybe the world even. But…can you please consider that after we’ve settled this family crisis of a situation?”
“Question is…when will that be?" I shot back, giving him a keen stare. Junsu watched me sadly and I continued before he could utter another word. “Look, don’t worry about it. I’m not planning on leaving. Not yet anyway. I still need to-”
“No. Don’t tell me you’re still looking for the one who killed Ojii?”
I didn’t respond. I didn’t need to. Junsu let out a frustrated growl. “You’ve been on the hunt for years. You’ve lost sleep, you’ve lost all reasoning in the midst of looking for the perpetrator, and now you’ve lost yourself. You’re foolishly, not to mention willingly, walking into enemy territory. Jejung.” Junsu grasped my shoulders tightly, his nails
sinking in. “You need to stop.”
“He’s here. I know it. Perhaps I can get close to Matsumoto-san, and -”
“Absolutely not. Are you crazy?! Even if you do befriend Matsumoto, either way, you’re going to step onto Matsumoto soil. Alone. What then? You don’t expect Matsumoto Yunho-san to draw his weapon and defend you after finding out that you’ve betrayed him, do you? Think about it. You’re fighting a losing battle.” He turned away after saying that one last cruel line, most likely not wanting to see the expression on my face.
“But, Junsu - ”
“And what do you think is going to happen when he sees our family crest tattooed on your back?” Junsu let out a sigh, but not of exasperation. “Even if you’re friends with him, I mean, let’s face it. All brothers see each other naked at one point or another.”
“You’re getting ahead of yourself, cousin. Paranoid doesn’t suit one such as you. Please don’t bother starting now.” I had to hold firm on my jaw in order to prevent from gaping at him. I knew what he was implying. “Do you seriously think I’d throw caution into the wind and involve myself in some illicit affair with him? Please be reasonable now.”
“Well, I wasn’t implying that, Junsu began. I raised an eyebrow and shot him a skeptical look. “Okay, fine. But he is said to be a handsome man!”
“Now what is that supposed to mean?! Do you think I’m so desperate as to throwing myself at the first handsome man I see?! If that were the case I’d-!” I held my tongue, and bit sharply into it with all my might. I might've cried. Because ow, it hurt. Good God, was I really going to say what I was going to say? I nearly blushed at the thought.
“You’d have his cock in your ass and he’d have your head the moment he finds out you’re the Kinomoto Jejung,” My cousin finishes for me, crossing his eyebrows, as he stops to glare peevishly at one of the shops a couple of feet away. “Listen to me, Jejung. I know you've always been the one to act on impulse. But for once, please use your head. Listening to your heart does not mean bearing your soul for the sake of others. It doesn't necessarily have to be this way. Do you understand?”
“For Papa, Junsu…” I nearly cringe at how desperate and sorrowful I sounded. That was when I knew that I’d never move on. If I’d given up on this chase, I’d never move on. Not even in death. My soul would never carry on into the afterlife, and I’ll be a wandering spirit, uneasy and forever clueless as to never meeting this Yoshimitsu.
“I won’t let you.” Junsu gasped, leaning forward, his blunt nails digging deeper into my shoulders.
“Won’t you?”
I knew the consequences and Junsu had warned me enough that this wasn’t a good idea. What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. I let out a soft sigh as I made my way down the familiar path. I’d left my sakabato behind to avoid the authorities. Since we were now in the Meiji Era, it sure was a hassle to deal with the authorities so I’d much rather steer clear from that. I didn’t quite fancy the police swordsman either. What was the point of the anti-sword code if they were privileged to kill whenever it was necessary? Since when was it ever necessary or alright to rob someone of their life?
As I near the river, I hear Yunho’s grunts and some flesh on flesh along with some cries and a crash. Was he not training with Yuchun this afternoon? It definitely sounded like someone else. I hear a loud curse and more men yelling and I realize that Yunho was definitely with more than one person. Was it possible that he was in trouble?
I almost trip over my feet as I dashed down the path, the silhouette figures getting clearer as I neared. I gasp in surprise as I see Yunho flinging a man into his comrade, and almost immediately, I make a quick observation to see him outnumbered by five people. He’d been training alone today.
While he was dodging punches and kicks from another oncoming man, another was sneaking up behind him with a knife in hand. I subconsciously scream out a panicked, “Oi look out!” And he appeared startled for a moment and I cringe slightly at the brutal force of the man’s fist colliding with his face. And at the same moment, his comrade had struck his back with the dagger. Yunho yelled out a hissing curse, and almost as quick as lightning, I found myself elbowing the man in the neck before kicking him into the water. The current of the river was rough today, and the man got dragged off to Kami knows where.
Even though Yunho didn’t know who I was, our coordination was not too shabby at all. The fight was a whirling mess of punches and kicks and it was a good thing that even if I wasn’t too experienced in martial arts, I was able to steal one of their sheathed swords and pull off the combat well without really hurting anyone.
“Shit, c’mon let’s get out of here!” One of the men shouted. “You won’t get away with this,
Yunho!”
“As if you can do shit about it, Daichi.” Yunho said, expressionless, despite the knife still embedded into his back. “And you can tell Ojii not to bother.”
“Hah!” The boy shouted with a laugh as his friends journeyed quickly up to hill to him. “There is indeed shit I can do about it, Yunho. Don’t forget. You’re a Matsumoto. I will make sure you know your place. Who you’re dealing with. You and your homo friend better prepare for it!”
EH? HOMO?
My eyes widened, lips puckered, and there was no doubt that I looked like a mindless and stupid fool at that. Is he talking about me?
Yunho only let out an irritated snort as Daichi dragged what was left of his crew up and away from the river. At that very moment, the atmosphere turned cold and rather awkward. I fought every urge in my body not to fidget at the handsome man beside me, and as my eyes shifted around for another place to stare at, they skimmed through the blade behind his shoulder blade.
“Your back!”
“Thank you.”
We had spoken at the same time, and my breath hitched in my throat, almost positively rendering speechless. It’s not because he startled me with his unusual voice that mismatched his masculine face or the fact that he looked extremely more charming up close but - well yes - I suppose that was part of the reason.
“Ah. This?” He let out a short scoff followed with a brief laugh. “Nah, this is nothing. I’ve had worse.” He shrugged his good shoulder and waved a hand noncommittally as the inner me was flailing like a fool over such an injury. I guess it’s because it was rare for me to actually see people getting stabbed at random.
Yunho heaved a sigh as he walked a bit further up the grass and plopped onto his behind and reached back to feel at the knife. I instinctively let out a startled cry, wrapping my fingers around his wrist and pulling it away from the wound. He tensed, or I did, I couldn’t tell as he looked at me with a confused expression, and I had to fight the blush itching its way into my cheeks. I didn’t realize I’d gotten so close. Nearly half on top of him no less. What am I doing?! Why am I so nervous?
“Um…it’s not wise to pull it out. You’ll bleed to death.”
We were unbearably awkward and silent for a moment that seemed too long for my tastes, and I realized that my hands were at his shoulder and wrist, but I couldn’t seem to let go. It was as if my body had been frozen completely. Junsu’s right. I think he’d be able to kill me if he had to chance. Easily, no doubt about it.
“HAHAHAHAHA!” Yunho choked out an uncharacteristic laugh, and made second realization that I was half pouting and furrowing my eyebrows at him in a stubborn manner, as if I was daring for him to try and take out the knife. “Oi, ochibi, what’s your name?” He laughed, his hand moving my hand off his wrist to hold it in his. What…
“Eh?!
Did he just call me an ochibi?! I am not little! I-I’m twenty two this year! And a manly man at that! The nerve of this man! I open my mouth and he cuts me off, wearing an unbearably handsome and amused grin. I hate him. I don’t know him but I hate him. I don’t care. It’s official.
“Your name. You do have one like everyone else, I’m sure.”
“Jejung,” I muttered carelessly, eyes darting elsewhere, but not before catching his pupils widen. Oh no. I’ve done it. No, he knows who I am, doesn’t he?! That was when my mind started to race and my heart started to pound. My ribcage tightened and I fought every nerve in my face to feign ignorance. Shit. “Sasaki Jejung.” I tried not to stutter, and I think Yunho bought my surname when he his eyelids lowered. Oh, he had beautiful eyes. I almost reach out to finger the crease by them.
“Ah. Sasaki Jejung. A pleasure I’m sure. I’m Matsumoto Yunho. Thanks for saving me,” He laughed. “I’m pretty sure we’ve steered clear from danger. So there’s uh...no need to save me now,” He said, eyeing my hands in his hand and shoulder.
“OH! Sorry!” I almost let out an embarrassing squeak as I jerked away from him and settled beside him. At an appropriate distance of course. He let out a sigh as he reached behind him again in an attempt to rip the knife out no doubt. “H-Hey, don’t!”
“No worries, ochibi. It’s just a measly knife. It may look bad to you, but it’s just a minor wound, really. See.” He reached back with a hand, wrapping long fingers around the tiny knife and pulled the blade out of his shoulder. My eyes widened in horror that it was barely bleeding. Was his back made out of steel or what?!
“Y-You should really clean that before it gets infected!”
“I’ve a shirt. Don’t worry,” He said, shrugging. Oh. That’s right. He was shirtless. Now realizing that, I was ten times more uncomfortable. His family crest was behind his left shoulder blade. I fought the urge to throw a punch into him. Not because I hated him. I just hated the situation. Yunho mentioned an Oji. Everyone knew Yunho was the nephew of Yoshimitsu. His parents were said to be gone so didn’t that make him the second heir after
the man’s son? Did Yunho live with Yoshimitsu?
“Oi, ochibi -”
“C-Can you…” I mutter, my eyes shifting uncomfortably away.
“Yes?”
“Can you stop…calling me that?” I still couldn’t look his way. This was so embarrassing. Did he think I was a child of ten years?
“Eh? But…isn’t that what you’re always called?” He asked, lower lip slightly jutting out. Uncharacteristically too adorable for my liking.
“H-How old do you think I am?!” I almost shout at him, finally staring him in the eyes, my eyebrows twitching in agitation.
“Aren’t you like of sixteen years or something?”
WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!
“Y-You’re no youngling yourself!” I huffed, crossing my arms. My right arm tingles as he scoots a little closer.
“Ah. That’s true,” He mused, indifferently, which kind of irritated me at most. “I’m sure the wrinkles on my face show eh?” He pointed as his flawless face as if mocking me. Just where was he getting at?
“Hey! I’m twenty-two!” I suddenly felt silly as I thrust two fingers of each hand in his face.
“Still a chibi.”
I’LL KILL YOU!
“Well, what would you like me to call my pretty stalker? Sasaki-san?” He mused once more pleased with my reaction as he shifted even closer to the point of our shoulders touching. The tingle was starting to spread into my chest and up my neck and hopefully away from my groin.
“W-Well…” Wait. WHAT?!
“EH?! YOU!” I shouted, almost spitting into his face as he startled me with the sudden close proximity of our faces. My arms flew up to instinctively push at his chest and away. “Matsumoto-san knew all this time?!”
“Of course,” Yunho shrugged. “How could I not? Most of the time I always see your shadow,
your figure, but I never saw your face. You’re not very good at hiding, you know.”
“I-I…”
My God, I was clearly at a loss for words. I didn’t know what to say. I’d been caught red handed. He can’t know about my real motives. Should I just pretend to be a secret admirer or something? Wouldn’t that be easier? It wasn’t hard. He was a handsome man after all. I wouldn’t expect him to be interested in me but perhaps this was a start. And if he rejects me as a secret admirer, I could very well try a different tactic by being friends with him. Either way, it would lead me to Yoshimitsu, I hope.
“Ah. I know. You like me then, right?” His smile a little too arrogant to my liking. I didn’t answer for a moment, and that was when I decided. I was going to feign ignorance.
“Jejung,” I said, looking up at him haughtily, making sure my expression told him that I wasn’t going to be backing down anytime soon.
“What?”
“I want you to call me Jejung. Sasaki-san is too formal. Makes me feel old.” I cringed, and he laughed.
“Oi, ochi-I mean Jejung. You’re still too young to be saying that. Would you like Jejung-chan? Ah, Jejuko then.”
“NO! Definitely NOT! I don’t wish for Matsumoto-san to call me that!”
Yunho laughed. I wish he’d stop that. Even his laughter is beautiful. Perhaps feigning romantic feelings wouldn’t be as hard as I thought.
“So you like me right? You’ve been watching me for quite awhile now. Unless you’ve another motive?”
NO. I definitely didn’t want him thinking that. He’d get suspicious and my plans would be ruined. I needed to do this.
“W-Well…”
“Well?” His voice grew unbearably husky, the tone of his voice telling me he knew I’d shuddered, and I knew he was teasing me. This was my chance.
This was all or never, Jejung. For Papa. I need to do this for Papa. If this didn’t work, I’d have to find another way. But I hope this would take me far enough.
It wasn’t hard becoming dead lost in his eyes. Although they were small, they were a beautiful color of dark brown. Although I’d already planned on leaning closer, I think it was my instinct that drove me closer in the end. I didn’t see him backing away, but the look in his eyes seemed amused, as if seeing what I’d do next. He was waiting for my answer.
I leaned in, my nose touching the dip of his, before I hesitantly brushed my lips against his parted mouth. I shivered in excitement, never have kissed anyone in my life, my chest nearly burst at the adrenaline feeling rushing though my veins. I felt my heart swelling in delight when his lips enclosed mine
as he kissed me back.
Urghhh...another chapter out! Sorry guys. I'll try to update faster next time... T___T Please tell me what you think guys! I’ve worked weeks on this. Even though it doesn’t look it. I finished the rest of this in my Bio class and skipped lab to finish this. Make my sacrifice worthy. Please let me know what you think! TT
Lose Weight
1 | 3
Chapter(s): 02/?
Author: sentimentalenvy
Genre: action, angst, historical, romance
Rating: R
Warnings: language, tobacco use, violence
Pairing: YunJae
Disclaimer: I do not own any known characters in this story.
Synopsis: The history of two family names collide, clashes and tangle in a way neither is willing to settle. Written stories told and never forgotten. Secrets are meant to be concealed; never unveiled. Two vessels wrapped in a love so taboo - venomous to the touch. And what is the purpose of a battle? Fought to conquer and prevail.
More on plunnie (if you're a jaeho_complex member): click here
Comment(s): Note 1: For moon1084’s birthday. X) Note 2: Also, this fiction is set back in the Meiji period (1868-1912).
Chapter Two
"Get him! Don't let him get away!"
Shit.
I catch a speedy figure slicing through a shroud of mist. It must be mine, but everything that had happened so far had been surreal,I don’t know anymore. My foot pummels into a puddle of rain water. My breath quickens in pace as I continue running down towards the bright light at the end of the forest. What I'm running from, I don't even know. I hear men calling out to me, and I assume I’m being chased, but I don’t take the chance to look back. My only instinct was to reach the light in front of me. Papa's voice rings out loud and soft as if he's calling for me - calling for my help - trying to help me find him. More twigs snap and slice against my cheeks and I distinctively felt shrubs clawing at my knees. But I continue running.
"Papa! Papa, where are you?!"
My pupils dilated from the sudden glare of the light, no doubt robbing me of my sight for a few seconds before dimming once more. There was Papa, standing right before me, reaching out to me with a soft smile. Although his smile was calm, I could tell the worry in his eyes that something was wrong. He tells me to come quickly and I reach out to him, my steps were heavy without caution, but determination and relief to be with him - to get out of here. My fingertips barely touch his, when I heard the sound of a sword, followed by Papa's groan of pain.
My eyes widen in horror and I find my hands bloodied. Letting out a frightened yelp, my eyes shift towards his stomach and I see a katana embedded deep into the vital organs of his stomach. I impulsively let out a scream and look up at the cruel being that had the heart to do such an abominable execution.
"Y-Yo-shi-m-mi-tsu...!" Papa groans, as he suddenly falls against me. He nearly pushes me down with his weight and I wince and let out a pained cry when I hear the eerie sound of his body sliding off the red lathered steel.
Yoshimitsu?!
I look up at this Yoshimitsu to see nothing but a black silhouette with a tainted blade glinting in the shrouded dark. My body shakes in fear and he points the katana at me, the tip of the blade threatening to pierce as it pointed at the tip of my nose. He brings the sword back and I realize that his intention was to kill me as well.
No...
I shake my head and plead as if he would heed to my mercy. I only hear a soft, cold, murmur of “die” and a whimper escapes me. The only thing running through my mind was the fact that I was going to die. My whole being shook at the sight of him fisting the sword towards my body. Mere seconds before I meet my doom, Papa suddenly quickly shields my body in place with his own. It took me seconds later to realize that the scream was coming from me.
NO! PAPA!!!
"AH!"
My head spun erratically, and I nearly shot out of my futon with a jolt, throwing my upper body forward. I felt the stretch of my pupils dilating as my eyes automatically made a quick scan of my surroundings, and I see one of my sisters lying next to me, seeming to be in a deep slumber.
Oh good...I haven't woken anyone...
My body still shuddered from the cold night but the goose bumps on my arms and the pounding of my chest never left me. It was that dream again...I can't believe I would still have
them...of Papa's death.
Papa was killed protecting Saeki during the yearly showdown between the Matsumotos and the Kinomotos. It wasn’t exactly official but somehow some people from both sides of our family always made plans to have this held annually behind our backs. Papa tried his hardest to stop Saeki from the match, and even though he had agreed, he went back on his word anyway. He never showed up into the public until the next evening of the fight. Though I wasn’t there, Mama told me it appeared that Saeki was winning in battle against some tyrant named Daisuke, but before he could draw his blade into the boy, the boy’s father had interfered and tried to strike Saeki from behind. But Papa had run in on time to block the attack, and thus, the battle between Papa and Yoshimitsu came to commence.
No, I can't think about that! Papa would've never wanted me to mourn over him like this. He specifically told me to keep the family away from the Matsumotos and out of trouble at all cost. But...no matter how many times I told Papa that this long history of rivalry wasn't going to end, he would not heed. I shook my head.
No...
It wasn't like he said I could stop it. Besides...I was only one person! But he did say to protect our family and friends. And when I asked him if it had to come to killing, I remember how tense he became. And I remember the grimace he had thought he'd hidden from me, grunted, and turned away without a word. I had the assumption that what must be done...had to be done.
I've always wanted avengement for what happened to Papa - this Yoshimitsu that murdered Papa in cold blood. But no matter where I searched, I couldn't find this man. The Matsumoto Yoshimitsus I've came across were nowhere affiliated with the Matsumotos. Perhaps my tracking skills needed serious honing. Ugh, I was only good for tracking animals and runaways. I sighed in uncomfortable distress, running my hand through the tresses of my hair. And Saeki was damn lucky he managed to get out of that fight with only cuts on his arms and legs. If it weren't for Junsu knocking him down and pulling him away…I wouldn’t have wanted to know the outcome.
I shut my eyes tightly and fisted my hair as if I pulled hard enough, all my problems would go away. But God knows that was only wishful thinking. Sometimes I allowed myself the illusion that everything was the way it was before - without the family drama - without our ancestors being the origin of our problems. No matter how you look at it, it started with them.
I often find myself asking the same question over and over again. When will it end? How many generations would have to suffer at the hands of our ancestors past? We were one of the same, were we not? We’re Japanese people. We shouldn’t be killing one of our own. I felt it was useless to even hope anymore.
“Are you insane?! Out of your mind?! Has your brain been blown to pieces for the kois to feast upon?!” Junsu hissed into my ear in a mid whisper as we walked along the streets of the town. Mama insisted on teaching the children today while she sent Junsu and me out to town to pick up some tofu for tonight’s dinner. I've finally told him the reason of my mysterious disappearings. Not that he would follow me. I believe he trusts me too much for that.
“Out of my mind? No. Rather impressed, and yes, I suppose I can be classified as insane.” I hummed, sailing my way along the street, dodging a laughing boy that nearly ran into my leg while chasing after his friend.
“Didn’t I just say that?”
“Yes, I suppose. Now what else did Mama say about what to bring back? Oh yes. Sake.”
“No,she did not,” Junsu huffed, fisting at my sleeve and jerking it towards his body. “Now tell me.” Junsu’s voice was almost a mere whisper now. “What are you thinking, involving yourself with a known enemy? Are you trying to put our family in danger or has the
safety of your family slipped your mind that you’ve forgotten?”
“I’ve never mentioned that I was acquainted with him, have I? You shouldn’t worry about that,” I sighed, stifling the bark that was threatening to spill from my throat. “I haven’t even talked to the man. What harm can come out of knowing a man who doesn’t know of my existence?”
“He knows of your existence. He just doesn’t know the face attached to the infamous name. You’re lucky we’re in a certain part of town that could care less about our family dilemmas. Why do you think your mother always forbids you to go much of anywhere else?” My cousin furrowed his brows and wearily looked away, as if collecting his thoughts for a moment. He turned back towards me. “Look, I know you want to venture the vast lands of Japan. Maybe the world even. But…can you please consider that after we’ve settled this family crisis of a situation?”
“Question is…when will that be?" I shot back, giving him a keen stare. Junsu watched me sadly and I continued before he could utter another word. “Look, don’t worry about it. I’m not planning on leaving. Not yet anyway. I still need to-”
“No. Don’t tell me you’re still looking for the one who killed Ojii?”
I didn’t respond. I didn’t need to. Junsu let out a frustrated growl. “You’ve been on the hunt for years. You’ve lost sleep, you’ve lost all reasoning in the midst of looking for the perpetrator, and now you’ve lost yourself. You’re foolishly, not to mention willingly, walking into enemy territory. Jejung.” Junsu grasped my shoulders tightly, his nails
sinking in. “You need to stop.”
“He’s here. I know it. Perhaps I can get close to Matsumoto-san, and -”
“Absolutely not. Are you crazy?! Even if you do befriend Matsumoto, either way, you’re going to step onto Matsumoto soil. Alone. What then? You don’t expect Matsumoto Yunho-san to draw his weapon and defend you after finding out that you’ve betrayed him, do you? Think about it. You’re fighting a losing battle.” He turned away after saying that one last cruel line, most likely not wanting to see the expression on my face.
“But, Junsu - ”
“And what do you think is going to happen when he sees our family crest tattooed on your back?” Junsu let out a sigh, but not of exasperation. “Even if you’re friends with him, I mean, let’s face it. All brothers see each other naked at one point or another.”
“You’re getting ahead of yourself, cousin. Paranoid doesn’t suit one such as you. Please don’t bother starting now.” I had to hold firm on my jaw in order to prevent from gaping at him. I knew what he was implying. “Do you seriously think I’d throw caution into the wind and involve myself in some illicit affair with him? Please be reasonable now.”
“Well, I wasn’t implying that, Junsu began. I raised an eyebrow and shot him a skeptical look. “Okay, fine. But he is said to be a handsome man!”
“Now what is that supposed to mean?! Do you think I’m so desperate as to throwing myself at the first handsome man I see?! If that were the case I’d-!” I held my tongue, and bit sharply into it with all my might. I might've cried. Because ow, it hurt. Good God, was I really going to say what I was going to say? I nearly blushed at the thought.
“You’d have his cock in your ass and he’d have your head the moment he finds out you’re the Kinomoto Jejung,” My cousin finishes for me, crossing his eyebrows, as he stops to glare peevishly at one of the shops a couple of feet away. “Listen to me, Jejung. I know you've always been the one to act on impulse. But for once, please use your head. Listening to your heart does not mean bearing your soul for the sake of others. It doesn't necessarily have to be this way. Do you understand?”
“For Papa, Junsu…” I nearly cringe at how desperate and sorrowful I sounded. That was when I knew that I’d never move on. If I’d given up on this chase, I’d never move on. Not even in death. My soul would never carry on into the afterlife, and I’ll be a wandering spirit, uneasy and forever clueless as to never meeting this Yoshimitsu.
“I won’t let you.” Junsu gasped, leaning forward, his blunt nails digging deeper into my shoulders.
“Won’t you?”
I knew the consequences and Junsu had warned me enough that this wasn’t a good idea. What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. I let out a soft sigh as I made my way down the familiar path. I’d left my sakabato behind to avoid the authorities. Since we were now in the Meiji Era, it sure was a hassle to deal with the authorities so I’d much rather steer clear from that. I didn’t quite fancy the police swordsman either. What was the point of the anti-sword code if they were privileged to kill whenever it was necessary? Since when was it ever necessary or alright to rob someone of their life?
As I near the river, I hear Yunho’s grunts and some flesh on flesh along with some cries and a crash. Was he not training with Yuchun this afternoon? It definitely sounded like someone else. I hear a loud curse and more men yelling and I realize that Yunho was definitely with more than one person. Was it possible that he was in trouble?
I almost trip over my feet as I dashed down the path, the silhouette figures getting clearer as I neared. I gasp in surprise as I see Yunho flinging a man into his comrade, and almost immediately, I make a quick observation to see him outnumbered by five people. He’d been training alone today.
While he was dodging punches and kicks from another oncoming man, another was sneaking up behind him with a knife in hand. I subconsciously scream out a panicked, “Oi look out!” And he appeared startled for a moment and I cringe slightly at the brutal force of the man’s fist colliding with his face. And at the same moment, his comrade had struck his back with the dagger. Yunho yelled out a hissing curse, and almost as quick as lightning, I found myself elbowing the man in the neck before kicking him into the water. The current of the river was rough today, and the man got dragged off to Kami knows where.
Even though Yunho didn’t know who I was, our coordination was not too shabby at all. The fight was a whirling mess of punches and kicks and it was a good thing that even if I wasn’t too experienced in martial arts, I was able to steal one of their sheathed swords and pull off the combat well without really hurting anyone.
“Shit, c’mon let’s get out of here!” One of the men shouted. “You won’t get away with this,
Yunho!”
“As if you can do shit about it, Daichi.” Yunho said, expressionless, despite the knife still embedded into his back. “And you can tell Ojii not to bother.”
“Hah!” The boy shouted with a laugh as his friends journeyed quickly up to hill to him. “There is indeed shit I can do about it, Yunho. Don’t forget. You’re a Matsumoto. I will make sure you know your place. Who you’re dealing with. You and your homo friend better prepare for it!”
EH? HOMO?
My eyes widened, lips puckered, and there was no doubt that I looked like a mindless and stupid fool at that. Is he talking about me?
Yunho only let out an irritated snort as Daichi dragged what was left of his crew up and away from the river. At that very moment, the atmosphere turned cold and rather awkward. I fought every urge in my body not to fidget at the handsome man beside me, and as my eyes shifted around for another place to stare at, they skimmed through the blade behind his shoulder blade.
“Your back!”
“Thank you.”
We had spoken at the same time, and my breath hitched in my throat, almost positively rendering speechless. It’s not because he startled me with his unusual voice that mismatched his masculine face or the fact that he looked extremely more charming up close but - well yes - I suppose that was part of the reason.
“Ah. This?” He let out a short scoff followed with a brief laugh. “Nah, this is nothing. I’ve had worse.” He shrugged his good shoulder and waved a hand noncommittally as the inner me was flailing like a fool over such an injury. I guess it’s because it was rare for me to actually see people getting stabbed at random.
Yunho heaved a sigh as he walked a bit further up the grass and plopped onto his behind and reached back to feel at the knife. I instinctively let out a startled cry, wrapping my fingers around his wrist and pulling it away from the wound. He tensed, or I did, I couldn’t tell as he looked at me with a confused expression, and I had to fight the blush itching its way into my cheeks. I didn’t realize I’d gotten so close. Nearly half on top of him no less. What am I doing?! Why am I so nervous?
“Um…it’s not wise to pull it out. You’ll bleed to death.”
We were unbearably awkward and silent for a moment that seemed too long for my tastes, and I realized that my hands were at his shoulder and wrist, but I couldn’t seem to let go. It was as if my body had been frozen completely. Junsu’s right. I think he’d be able to kill me if he had to chance. Easily, no doubt about it.
“HAHAHAHAHA!” Yunho choked out an uncharacteristic laugh, and made second realization that I was half pouting and furrowing my eyebrows at him in a stubborn manner, as if I was daring for him to try and take out the knife. “Oi, ochibi, what’s your name?” He laughed, his hand moving my hand off his wrist to hold it in his. What…
“Eh?!
Did he just call me an ochibi?! I am not little! I-I’m twenty two this year! And a manly man at that! The nerve of this man! I open my mouth and he cuts me off, wearing an unbearably handsome and amused grin. I hate him. I don’t know him but I hate him. I don’t care. It’s official.
“Your name. You do have one like everyone else, I’m sure.”
“Jejung,” I muttered carelessly, eyes darting elsewhere, but not before catching his pupils widen. Oh no. I’ve done it. No, he knows who I am, doesn’t he?! That was when my mind started to race and my heart started to pound. My ribcage tightened and I fought every nerve in my face to feign ignorance. Shit. “Sasaki Jejung.” I tried not to stutter, and I think Yunho bought my surname when he his eyelids lowered. Oh, he had beautiful eyes. I almost reach out to finger the crease by them.
“Ah. Sasaki Jejung. A pleasure I’m sure. I’m Matsumoto Yunho. Thanks for saving me,” He laughed. “I’m pretty sure we’ve steered clear from danger. So there’s uh...no need to save me now,” He said, eyeing my hands in his hand and shoulder.
“OH! Sorry!” I almost let out an embarrassing squeak as I jerked away from him and settled beside him. At an appropriate distance of course. He let out a sigh as he reached behind him again in an attempt to rip the knife out no doubt. “H-Hey, don’t!”
“No worries, ochibi. It’s just a measly knife. It may look bad to you, but it’s just a minor wound, really. See.” He reached back with a hand, wrapping long fingers around the tiny knife and pulled the blade out of his shoulder. My eyes widened in horror that it was barely bleeding. Was his back made out of steel or what?!
“Y-You should really clean that before it gets infected!”
“I’ve a shirt. Don’t worry,” He said, shrugging. Oh. That’s right. He was shirtless. Now realizing that, I was ten times more uncomfortable. His family crest was behind his left shoulder blade. I fought the urge to throw a punch into him. Not because I hated him. I just hated the situation. Yunho mentioned an Oji. Everyone knew Yunho was the nephew of Yoshimitsu. His parents were said to be gone so didn’t that make him the second heir after
the man’s son? Did Yunho live with Yoshimitsu?
“Oi, ochibi -”
“C-Can you…” I mutter, my eyes shifting uncomfortably away.
“Yes?”
“Can you stop…calling me that?” I still couldn’t look his way. This was so embarrassing. Did he think I was a child of ten years?
“Eh? But…isn’t that what you’re always called?” He asked, lower lip slightly jutting out. Uncharacteristically too adorable for my liking.
“H-How old do you think I am?!” I almost shout at him, finally staring him in the eyes, my eyebrows twitching in agitation.
“Aren’t you like of sixteen years or something?”
WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAT?!
“Y-You’re no youngling yourself!” I huffed, crossing my arms. My right arm tingles as he scoots a little closer.
“Ah. That’s true,” He mused, indifferently, which kind of irritated me at most. “I’m sure the wrinkles on my face show eh?” He pointed as his flawless face as if mocking me. Just where was he getting at?
“Hey! I’m twenty-two!” I suddenly felt silly as I thrust two fingers of each hand in his face.
“Still a chibi.”
I’LL KILL YOU!
“Well, what would you like me to call my pretty stalker? Sasaki-san?” He mused once more pleased with my reaction as he shifted even closer to the point of our shoulders touching. The tingle was starting to spread into my chest and up my neck and hopefully away from my groin.
“W-Well…” Wait. WHAT?!
“EH?! YOU!” I shouted, almost spitting into his face as he startled me with the sudden close proximity of our faces. My arms flew up to instinctively push at his chest and away. “Matsumoto-san knew all this time?!”
“Of course,” Yunho shrugged. “How could I not? Most of the time I always see your shadow,
your figure, but I never saw your face. You’re not very good at hiding, you know.”
“I-I…”
My God, I was clearly at a loss for words. I didn’t know what to say. I’d been caught red handed. He can’t know about my real motives. Should I just pretend to be a secret admirer or something? Wouldn’t that be easier? It wasn’t hard. He was a handsome man after all. I wouldn’t expect him to be interested in me but perhaps this was a start. And if he rejects me as a secret admirer, I could very well try a different tactic by being friends with him. Either way, it would lead me to Yoshimitsu, I hope.
“Ah. I know. You like me then, right?” His smile a little too arrogant to my liking. I didn’t answer for a moment, and that was when I decided. I was going to feign ignorance.
“Jejung,” I said, looking up at him haughtily, making sure my expression told him that I wasn’t going to be backing down anytime soon.
“What?”
“I want you to call me Jejung. Sasaki-san is too formal. Makes me feel old.” I cringed, and he laughed.
“Oi, ochi-I mean Jejung. You’re still too young to be saying that. Would you like Jejung-chan? Ah, Jejuko then.”
“NO! Definitely NOT! I don’t wish for Matsumoto-san to call me that!”
Yunho laughed. I wish he’d stop that. Even his laughter is beautiful. Perhaps feigning romantic feelings wouldn’t be as hard as I thought.
“So you like me right? You’ve been watching me for quite awhile now. Unless you’ve another motive?”
NO. I definitely didn’t want him thinking that. He’d get suspicious and my plans would be ruined. I needed to do this.
“W-Well…”
“Well?” His voice grew unbearably husky, the tone of his voice telling me he knew I’d shuddered, and I knew he was teasing me. This was my chance.
This was all or never, Jejung. For Papa. I need to do this for Papa. If this didn’t work, I’d have to find another way. But I hope this would take me far enough.
It wasn’t hard becoming dead lost in his eyes. Although they were small, they were a beautiful color of dark brown. Although I’d already planned on leaning closer, I think it was my instinct that drove me closer in the end. I didn’t see him backing away, but the look in his eyes seemed amused, as if seeing what I’d do next. He was waiting for my answer.
I leaned in, my nose touching the dip of his, before I hesitantly brushed my lips against his parted mouth. I shivered in excitement, never have kissed anyone in my life, my chest nearly burst at the adrenaline feeling rushing though my veins. I felt my heart swelling in delight when his lips enclosed mine
as he kissed me back.
Urghhh...another chapter out! Sorry guys. I'll try to update faster next time... T___T Please tell me what you think guys! I’ve worked weeks on this. Even though it doesn’t look it. I finished the rest of this in my Bio class and skipped lab to finish this. Make my sacrifice worthy. Please let me know what you think! TT
Lose Weight
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