Crimson Fate
Title : Crimson Fate - Part 4
Author :
zeon_avalanthe
Rating : PG-15 (For Violance and Dark Theme)
Genre : AU ; Angst
Pairing : YutoYama
Disclaimer : Everyone knows that I don't own any of those boys, sadly..
Summary : I have always wondered, why does this world have never been fair to the likes of us ? Was it so wrong to be born like this ? Do we have to be blamed for the fate we can't choose ? If so, then why did God created us ? Is there a purpose yet to be known for our existence ? Is there a meaning at all for us to continue living in this world where we could only suffer ?
Author's Note : The story was inspired heavily by anime Tokyo Ghoul.. Some of you who haven't watched or read Tokyo Ghoul might will be a little confused, so I will give a little explanation after the story, along with some other info you might want to know..
Author's Note 2 : Last spurt of this story guys~ I'm finishing this up today~ :)
*Crimson Fate - Part 4*
“I’m telling you that my newest research will be a great break for us !”
“But this is absurd, Yamada ! Whatever you are doing will change a lot, including our entity as a ghoul !”
The man called Yamada quickly shot his red eyes toward the other, all the while shoving the papers to his chest.
“You don’t understand, Yamashita ! This will change us, yes, but for the better ! My research will strengthened our power immensely, giving us more weapons, allowing us a chance to rule the world !”
“That’s not the point of us being researchers !” Yamashita roared back. “We should find a way for us to live on even ground with humans, find a way for the two species to live together in harmony ! We’re not trying to invent something to rule over them !”
“That’s why you’ve never make a progress !” Yamada shouted. “You’re too naive ! Those were just some ideals our superiors gave us to restrict us ! And do you want to know what will happen after we’ve satisfied their stupid wishes ? They will throw us away like somekind of overused trashes ! They will see us as a mere hindrance and rid of us ! We will not be recognized for our own achievement !”
Yamashita shook his head frantically. “But still, I cannot agree to this idea of yours. It’s far too insane. I can’t allow such thing to be done to our children.”
Yamada shot him one last sharp look before turning away.
“Suit yourself. But you better not regret ever refusing my offer.”
***
“Yamashita-sensei, there’s a letter for you.”
Yamashita looked up from the microscope he was working with to see one of his co-researcher stood by his side, an envelope on his hands.
“Thanks, Nakajima. You may return to your post.”
The younger man smiled before nodding his head.
“Understood, Sensei.”
After making sure no one is looking, Yamashita carefully opened the envelope and quickly read the letters. And gradually, his eyes filled with rage.
“That bastard !” He cursed under his breath as he took off his lab coat and slammed it to his seat. “I’m going out for a while everyone. Please contact me if anything happens.” Was the last thing he said before he rushed out of the door.
As soon as he reached his parked car, he fished out his phone to call a certain number.
“What do you think you are doing ?!” He shouted to the receiver.
“What do you mean ?” Asked the receiver calmly.
“Don’t you dare playing dumb with me, Yamada !” He threatened with a low voice.
A crisp laugh could be heard from the other line, and he felt his anger rising.
“I don’t remember having an obligation to tell you what I’m doing, though. Last time I checked, we’re no longer research-partners. Oh, it’s done ! Sorry, Yamashita, but I have to hung up. Goodbye.”
And just like that, the line was disconnected. Yamashita tried to call him back, but he seemed to have non-activated his phone. He cursed as he punched the steering-wheel as hard as he could. He tried every possible way to stop the madman from pursuing his wrecked-idea, and only one thing came up.
Taking a few breath, he re-opened his phone, and started typing, hoping that it will work somehow. Watching as his message being sent, his eyes drifted to the photograph on the dashboard, and he smiled. His hand slowly reached into the picture and caressed the boy who is laughing at him tenderly.
“I’m sorry, Tomo. Papa might not be able to teach you soccer again.”
A ringtone of his phone brought him back from his reverie. He quickly read the reply of his message and send back an ‘OK’ before shutting his phone down and drive away.
“This is for the best.”
***
From : Yamashita-Sensei
To : Nakajima Kazuhiro
Subject : Check my files
Nakajima, this is sudden, but I have a request for you. Please log into my PC and copy all the files. After that, delete everything on my PC. I can’t tell you much here, but I can tell you that it might concerns you as well. At least the reason why you joined our team in the first place.
Also, if anything were to happen to me, I believe I can trust you in taking care of things which are needed to be taken care of. But please, be discreet about everything and act as if you know nothing beside the research we are currently doing.
And one last thing, please keep this a secret from my family. I really don’t want to endanger them with the knowledge of this. You also may cut off of your relationship with people involved in this propaganda and start anew. But before that, this is just my selfish wish, I do hope you will take those boys away. Away from that man and from that inhuman idea.
I know I’m asking you a lot, but as it’d come to this, you are the only person I can trust with this task. I won’t force you to agree, for I know it’s a huge responsibility to carry, but please do know that you have my greatest gratitude if you choose to agree to my selfish request. But if you find yourself unable to do it, then I will not mind. It’s just, I hope you will keep this a secret from everyone, and that’s all.
I’m sorry for asking you this much, and thank you.
Yamashita Masahisa.
The moment he read the message, Nakajima knew what he would be doing. He owed the man a lot. Yamashita-sensei had known his reasons of joining his team ever since the first time they met, and he had encouraged him for it. He was the first to did so. Everyone else always tried to make him change his mind instead. They told him that he’s a failure as a ghoul, that he was doing a taboo, because he had fallen in love, with a human.
But Yamashita-sensei, had encouraged him instead. He had respected his wish to try and find a way for a ghoul to be able to live in harmony with a human, so that he could be with his beloved without anyone shooting them an angry glare everytime the passed by anyone. So that he could lead a normal family with his love and their future children. And Yamashita-sensei understood. He was the first and the only person to ever see his vision properly, without yelling at him or throwing him a disgusted look. He was also the only one who congrulated him when he married his lover.
And for such person, he’s willing to do anything, as long as he believed them to be right. And that was why, he send his affirmative reply as soon as he could, and adding a few words of hope that everything won’t take for the worst. That Yamashita-sensei will return by the night with his usual playful remarks and told him that he was just being paranoid after all.
But as he read through the said files, he gradually feel the dread rising within him. Things might turn nasty after all.
***
“Stop it, Yamada !”
The called guy looked up from whatever he was doing just in time to dodge a kagune aimed at him.
“What now, Yamashita ?” He asked, eyes squinting until they were barely visible.
“I will never allow you to proceed with this craziness !” And another attack came his way.
“Tsk.” Yamada muttered under his breath. “Such a bothersome.”
***
“I really am sorry for your husband’s death, Yamashita-san.”
The tired-looking woman looked up and smiled at seeing on of his husband’s former colleague.
“Thank you, Yamada-sensei. And though it’s unfortunate, I have to be strong for our son.” She averted her gaze to the picture of her deceased husband on the altar. “For sure, my husband would have wanted that.”
“He was such a great researcher. We had a lot of fun during our time of partnership. I really was disappointed when our contract ended. I still have a lot of things to learn from him, but now-“
“Oh, Masahisa-san...” The woman, unable to hold her tears anymore, finally broke down.
“It’s okay, Yamashita-san. Everything is going to be okay.” With a well-hidden smirk, Yamada caress the woman’s back as she cried her feelings out.
***
It was a year after Yamashita-sensei passed away, and Nakajima is trying to cope up with his newly built life with the love of his life. After the news of Yamashita-sensei’s death came, he knew that it was time to move. He left his resignation letter on the lab, and tried to erase as many proofs as possible of Yamashita-sensei’s secret research to prevent anyone from misusing them. He then left to retrieve the young men discreetly. He had researched everything about that place, and pretty confident on his timing to ‘kidnap’ them away. The four boys, all dirtied and lost, were at first frightened at his figure. But after he had told them that he’s a friend of Yamashita-sensei, they believed in him and followed him out.
After taking the boys with him, he stopped by one last place to meet a certain someone. There he greeted Yuumiko, the love of his live, and asked her to come with him. He was beyond happy when she nodded her head and they both left on their journey to a brand new world. For the first time in his life, he was happy that both him and Yuumiko had lost their parents young, and though Yuumiko had an older brother, they lived apart and not in good terms, so basically they don’t have to say goodbye to anyone.
Along the road, he tried to explain as best as he could to her, while keeping some informations to himself. He told her that he can’t tell her everything then though, and she had understood. She held his hand and assured him that they will overcome this together.
It’s almost a 24-hour-trip, and by the time they had arrived, the boys on the back had fallen asleep. Yuumiko slept somewhere on the way too, but had woken up two hours before their destination. He told her to try and wake the boys up, while he came down from the car and talked to the owner of the place they’re visiting.
“Kazu, it’d been long.”
He smiled at the old man and went to gave him a hug.
“Uncle, you don’t know how much I owe you for accepting my sudden request.” He told the man.
“What are you talking about ? We might no be connected by blood, but we’re still family nevertheless. And family helps each other. Beside, you father had helped me a lot in the past, it’s only make sense for me to return the favour by helping you out now.” The man gave him a warm smile. “Oh, is that your company ? Come, bring them in. They must have been exhausted after the long ride. Let them rest properly inside. I have prepared some rooms.”
“Uncle, thank you so much. I don’t know what to do if you’re not here.”
“Please, don’t mind it, son. You know I’m more than happy to be able to do something for you.” The old man squeeze his shoulder assuringly, before turning his head toward the rest of the group and ushered them inside.
“What’s their name ?” He asked once their inside, warm and clean.
“This is Yabu Kota-kun, the eldest of them all. On his right is Yaotome Hikaru-kun, and next to him is Inoo Kei-kun, the youngest. The quiet one here is Takaki Yuya-kun.”
The four boys smiled sheepishly upon being introduced and nodded their heads.
“Such young fellows. I like them. Their eyes shine. They will be some great people in the future, I’m sure.” He commented with a crisp smile. “And who’s this beautiful lady might be ?” He then turned to the only woman in the room.
“Ah, this lady here, Uncle, is my spouse, Yuumiko.” He announced.
The old man widened his eyes in surprise. “Spouse ? When did you get married, Kazu ? And why didn’t you tell me ?”
“I’m sorry, Uncle.” He scratched his head. “But a lot happened, and our marriage is not exactly something many people will agreed on, that’s why...” He trailed off, waiting for the old man to response but all he saw is an unreadable expression shone from the man’s eyes and not a word spoken for a few minutes. Fearing for the worst, Nakajima had started to think for another place to stay.
“I see.” The man spoke at last. “I’m sorry, I’m just, surprised, I think.” He told the company. “I mean, I wonder since when my little Kazu grew up and be a man and found his own love ? It felt only yesterday when you cried for being dumped by the girl you like. To think that you finally built your own family, was just a little surprising.”
Nakajima widened his eyes in surprise. He had never expected such reaction from the old man.
“Uncle, allow me to tell you one more time. Yuumiko here, she’s a-“
“Human, I know.” The old man cut him off before he could finish his sentence. “But then what ? Love is a mysterious thing, Kazu. But it is also very beautiful. Not everyone can experience a true love, so that’s why, when you think you found one, cherish them with all you’ve got. It doesn’t matter who your partner is. Just by being a different species cannot stop you from pursuing your true love. At least, that’s what I thought. Eh, Kazu ? Why are you crying ?”
And true, before he realized it, tears had streaming down his cheek. And he didn’t know why.
“I’m sorry. But, you’re the only person beside Yamashita-sensei to have agreed on my relationship with Yuumi. And I’m just, happy, I think.” He reasoned.
“Really ?” His Uncle commented. “Well I was always called the weirdo anyway. But I surely wanted to meet this Yamashita-sensei guy who apparently have the same vision as me.”
“You can’t.” Nakajima shook his head.
“Why can’t I ?” Asked the old man.
“Yamashita-sensei, he, he had passed away.” He finally dropped the bomb. He hadn’t told the news yet to the boys, but he might as well tell them anyway. “He passed away fighting for his belief. For our beliefs.”
And suddenly, the quietest boy among the four broke into a mess of cries and wails. And his cry, seemed to have triggered the cries of the the other three as well.
“Masa-kun ! *sob* Don’t die !”
“You promised, you promised us you will stay with us forever !”
“Masahisa-san ! Why ?!”
No one tried to stop them from crying the hearts out, for they know it might be best for them that way, rather than keep the feelings inside.
“They’re just kids.” A hand is placed on his shoulder, and Nakajima looked up to find Yuumiko standing on his side. “Poor them.”
“But this Yamashita guy, he must have been a great person.” His uncle commented lowly. “For them to cry this much, they must have love him greatly. If not, they wouldn’t feel so lost.”
“Yes.” Nakajima agreed, remembering the times with his teacher-like figure. “He was a great person. A very great person.”
***
It was a week after their arrival at his Uncle’s place, and Nakajima had talked things out with his Uncle and spouse as much as he could. Having the same vision as himself, his Uncle had supported him with the idea, and even offered to help. He told Nakajima that he will take care of the kids while he travel to gain more support and continuing Yamashita-sensei’s unfinished research. He was worried when he’s about to leave, of whether the boys will be alright or not, but as he made his way downstairs, he caught the boy diligently working on the coffee machine with his Uncle on the watch.
“I will take care of them. You worry for your own well-being. And your wive’s too. She’s on her third trimester, right? Make sure you don’t stress her out too much.” His Uncle told him as he climbed into his car.
“I won’t. Please don’t worry over us.” He sends the man a smile. “Uncle, you don’t know how much it meant to me. You’ve done so many, and I don’t know how to repay you for all your kindness.”
“Stay alive.” The old man spoke softly, yet a firm tone thick in his voice. “Stay alive and prove the world what you’re worth.”
“I will.” Yet another smile, gentler this time, was thrown toward the older man’s direction. “Thank you, Uncle Koichi.”
***
It’d been almost five years since Nakajima last visited his Uncle. They stayed in contacts still, and there’s where he found out that the the oldest of the four boys, Kota, had decided to successor of his Uncle’s coffee shop.
“He was reluctant at first, but I managed to make him take the offer, saying that I won’t live forever and needed someone to take over my shop after I go.” Was what his Uncle said in one phone call.
He also told his Uncle how his first son was born a full-ghoul for some reason. It was something he has yet to figure out, but he was glad more than anything, because that would mean that Yuto -the name he and Yuumiko had given to their son- will never face the obstacles of being a hybrid.
Their second son, however, was not as fortunate as Yuto was. Two years after Yuto was born, they were blessed with another child -another son- a healthy young boy they named Raiya. Unlike Yuto, Raiya didn’t posed red-eyes when he first cried, almost as if he’s a full-pledged human child. At least, that’s what they thought.
But around a year after Raiya was born, just a couple of days before Raiya’s first birthday, when the couple left their two sons alone in the playground, Yuto’s sudden shriek panicked them as they rushed to where the two boys are. Nakajima was beyond surprise when he found out their youngest son straddling his older brother with his newly-manifested kagune, his right eye shining a bloodshot red. And Yuto, even though he was already thought how to control his kagune to protect himself, was helpless against his two years younger brother. But what surprised them the most was not that. It was the fact that Raiya grinned -not the typical baby’s excited shriek, but a devilish grin- as he toppled over his older brother.
Nakajima was quick to tell his wive to wait outside before he released his own kagune and forced the tentacles-like kagune around Yuto’s body off. And using the time where Raiya was too surprised to react, he strike his son before catching him on his arms as he fell unconscious. As he felt his kagune dispersing, he turned to help his firstborn up from his position.
“Are you okay, son ?”
A visible red-lines around his neck and wrists and ankles were more than evidences to show the world that Yuto is clearly not okay. Especially when he trembles almost visibly with the colour of his face almost gone. But Yuto nodded anyway. He nodded his head for fear he will get his brother into trouble if he stated otherwise.
“It’s fine, Yuto. Everything’s going to be fine.” With his free arm, he pulled Yuto tight into him, giving him an encouraging hug.
***
Almost half a year later, and Nakajima finally found the correct formula as a result of his research. He was sure that it’s still incomplete, but felt safe enough to try it on his second son. The result, was rather satisfying if he has to say. Raiya was able to manifest a different kagune sometimes later, with both of his eyes turning red. He hoped the boy could grow up as a human rather as a ghoul, but decided that for the time being, it’s the best they could get. He could still work on the perfect formula later on.
But it appears as his laid-back decision was a prove of his immaturity, for he did not think of the consequence just in case something went wrong. He knew of the side-effects of course, and ever since had tried to keep Raiya as calm as he could, keeping his emotions at bay as to not to create an extreme change. Until one day, a nightmare change it all.
Nakajima decided to visit his Uncle after a long while with his whole family. After this long, he thought that it was time for Raiya to face the world. Raiya will need to go out eventually, and to make sure that things are under control even when the worst happened, his Uncle’s place might be the safest first destination.
His Uncle had welcomed him as warmly as he remembered. But what confused him was the absence of the four boys. So as his Uncle lead them to their temporary room, he asked the whereabout of the teens.
“They’re at school, of course.” Answered his Uncle lightly.
“School ?” He asked again.
“Yes, of course.” His Uncle said again. “I offered them to finish their study. Especially because we’re ghouls, we need to know how to blend with humans. And in order to do that, we have to enter the society. And beside, schools helped distracting them from unnecessary things. A lot will be gained there. Among the four, I personally think that Kei-kun might be the brightest. I have been thinking to have him take an entrance test for Todai or Meiji. But both Kota-kun and Hikaru-kun are in Waseda, and Yuya-kun said that he received an offer from a college in Osaka through swimming scholarship. I don’t know if he will want that test or not.”
“You haven’t told me.” He half-accused his Uncle.
“My bad.” The old man gave a low chuckle. “But it always slipped my mind. And I don’t really think it’s that important anyway.”
“It is important Uncle !” Nakajima insisted. “It must have cost you a lot for the school’s tuition and such.”
“Nonsense.” His Uncle laughed it off. “They gained their own money you know. For helping out in the shop and doing some other part-time jobs outside. Of course I told them that they don’t have to work part-time, but they insisted, so I let them be. And beside, they’re all smart kids. Kei-kun got a full scholarship ever since he first stepped into class. Yuya-kun proved his worth during swimming contest and earned himself scholarship through that. Kota-kun also worked diligently and be pro-active in every school events, making him the student council through high school which is the reason why Waseda recruited him to their university and offered him a full scholarship. Hikaru-kun showed his talent through art, which got himself a first prize that could last until the end of college. They’re not a bother at all, I assure you.”
“But still-“ Nakajima started.
“Let’s forget about it. There is another story which is more important than that.” His Uncle ushered him to his study for them to have a private talk. “I don’t know if you’ve heard about this or not yet, but it seems that the widow of Yamashita-sensei, Fuyumi-san, had remarried and already had a child from his second marriage.”
“She did ? I never know.” Nakajima expressed his surprise.
“Yes. But that’s not the main point.” His Uncle looked hesitant for a moment. “Apparently, her current spouse is none other than that Yamada Tatsuhiro-kun.”
Nakajima could only gasped in surprise.
***
As surprising as it might seem, the problem concerning Yamada Tatsuhiro marrying the late Yamashita-sensei’s widow didn’t stay for long. For just the day after the big announcement, another problem arises. A bigger problem.
They were visiting the amusement park near his Uncle’s place, and little Yuto was asking to visit the haunted house with his parents. And because of his condition, Raiya was not allowed to ride along, and so Uncle Koichi volunteered to take care of him while the three of them took he challenge, assured that nothing could go wrong anyway.
What they didn’t predict was a little fireworks triggered the unstability of Raiya’s emotions and thus, returning him to his original form. The toddler made a rampage with his unleashed form, attacking here and there, knowing no mercy. Uncle Koichi, by no means weak despite his age, was betting on his all when he transform and tried his best to keep Raiya at bay. But even with his advantages of power and experience, he was no match against a hybrid, even as young as Raiya is.
It was just their luck to find out that a couple of doves were on patrol around the area by then. The professional doves quickly called for backups while they equipped themselves with their quinques and made a move to stop Raiya from further damage. Uncle Koichi, in his last burst of power, tried his best to bring Raiya afar -to put things to an end his way. But being wounded, and having to fight two sides at a time was proven to be a tougher task than he’d imagined. And so the last thing he remembered was Raiya being captured by one of the dove.
At the time the other three Nakajimas ended their trip inside the haunted house, it was already too late. Before them, an unimaginable view awaited. They couldn’t even start to count how many lives were gone from the battle. Bloodied bodies lying everywhere, some of them lost parts. And on the other side of their view, a group of doves surrounding something.
Nakajima started to feel uneasy. He told his wive and firstborn to wait on the exit gate while he find out what’s happening. His wive, despite being reluctant, nodded her head and half-dragged Yuto to the opposite side. After making sure that the two of them are out of sights, Nakajima quietly approaching the commotion.
He was readying himself for the worst, but he mostly didn’t expected to see his second son lying lifelessly in the midst of the doves. Through their hectic talks upon figuring out what kind of creature Raiya is, Nakajima took a staggering steps back and begin his search for his Uncle. Not too far from that place, he found his Uncle lying motionless on the ground, and when he got there he realized that the man is still alive. It seems that seeing a hybrid is that important they seemingly forgot the existence of the other ghoul. Using the commotion, Nakajima picked the old man on his back and quickly fled the scene.
He said nothing when he met his wive and son, only signaling them to quickly follow him out. He placed his Uncle on the backseat, before driving away as fast as he could. Lucky for him that Kei-kun has the ability to heal, so as soon as they got home, he asked the boy to take care of his Uncle.
While the boy doing his job, he turned back to face his wive. Taking a deep breath, he finally dropped the bomb.
“I’m sorry, Yuumi. Raiya was found out by the doves. He, he was killed.”
***
His Uncle barely survived from the incident. He was conscious long enough to tell the family how sorry he was for not being able to take care of Raiya properly. Nakajima had told him that it’s okay, only because that seems to be the only thing chaining his Uncle down. The old man had smiled a sympathetic smile, before his eyes closed once again. This time, for eternity.
That very night, Nakajima readied himself to lose everything, when he decided to infiltrate the doves’ quarter to take Raiya’s body back. He couldn’t save his own son, the least thing he could do is to offer him a proper funeral. His wive had tried to stop him, but he told her that he needed to do this, and so she let him go.
It was through fighting a couple of doves and breaking a few system before he finally reached his destination. Taking out the body bag he had prepared earlier, Nakajima picked his son’s body carefully -placing a quick peck on his forehead on his way- and putting him inside the bag. He had expected more doves to be on his way, but it seems that they’re still busy figuring out the identity of the new-found ghoul.
He came back a little over midnight, only to find his wive still waiting where he left her. Running towards the woman, Nakajima pulled her into a tight embrace, and the two of them cried.
***
It was a simple funeral. They didn’t invite anyone. Just him, and his little family, with the four kids attending the funerals. Kota-kun had assured him that he will take care of Anteiku, so that Nakajima could focus on his research. He had said with burning eyes that this would be the last time of this kind of event from occuring. The discrimination over ghouls when all they wanted is simply a peace, should be ended. And the very person entrusted with the job was Nakajima.
He went back home soon after the funeral, before the doves making their further moves. Even then, as soon as they’re home, he realized that he couldn’t continue on with his research here. In this place full of Raiya’s memories. But at the same time, he can’t just abandon the place. And so, he and his wive made a decision. They will go for a trip in order to fulfil the research and leave the house in Yuto’s care. His wive was reluctant, for she thought Yuto was too young to be left alone. But it was Yuto himself who told them to just go.
And so off they go.
***
It’d been a few years since they start their journey, and Nakajima dare to say that they have made quite a progress. They visit home every once in a while, to check on Yuto and hear his every stories while they’re away. And so when one day, they got back to find their son in the company of another boy, they were beyond surprised.
Yuto had told them about the boy though, and of how he wished the boy could live together with him. He was reluctant, especially after knowing that the boy is the son of that Yamada Tatsuhiro, but Yuto was persisstent and he didn’t really have the heart to reject him, so he let him stay. The boy though, despite being shy and quiet, is as sweet as Yuto described him be. He’s easy to like, so no one would have thought of him having a dark past.
When on their journey, Nakajima found out about the death of Yamada Tatsuhiro, though the reason was yet to be known. And while he was originally surprised to hear about what had happened with the Yamada family afterwards -especially because Fuyumi-san was known to be a gentle woman who would never play cold toward her own son- he had predicted that there is something more on the story.
He bid Yuto and the boy goodbye the next morning. To resume their journey, as well as finding out the truth behind Yamada Tatsuhiro.
***
He found out soon enough from Yamada Tatsuhiro’s former co-researcher. The man told him he followed Yamada-sensei because he thought that the man was right about his idea. Only to find out later how wrong he was when he made the decision. It was too late to quit, though, for he knew very well what Yamada was capable off. So reluctantly, he continue on with the research.
It seems that Yamada Tatsuhiro was trying to make his own hybrid species. And had tested it on some. That much, he knew. But apparently he had went worse after that. He tried to make his own army of hybrids through blood. And so he invented a serum, injected it to his own vein, and created a bloodline.
“So that was the reason why he married Fuyumi-san ? To test on his idea of creating a hybrid army from his own children ? How cruel that would be ?!” He yelled in bewilderment.
“I know.” The man nodded his head. “I tried to stop him, too. Telling him the risks of it. But Yamada-sensei wouldn’t listen. In fact, he denied me from his main research from then on, only allowing me on small jobs. But I was still able to smuggled some informations, though I could do nothing to stop him.”
“About his death,” Nakajima started. “Do you know something about his death ?”
“It was only a rumour,” The man hesitated. “But I heard that Yamada-sensei was trying to turn himself into a hybrid. But something went wrong and he ended up unable to sustain the change, thus ending his own life. But it was only a rumour. I don’t know how much of it is true.”
“I see.” He nodded. “That’s enough, Masuda-kun. Thank you for telling me.”
***
He rushed home as soon as he received a frantic phonecall from Yuto, telling him that something went wrong with Ryosuke -the boy.
When they got home, Yuto told him that Ryosuke looked like Raiya when he was upset, that he is a hybrid. He cried to us, telling us how he didn’t want Ryosuke to end up like Raiya did, begging us to do something about it.
And as I draped my arms around Yuto’s shaking figure, I put two and two together.
Yamada Tatsuhiro had succeeded in creating a hybrid through his research. And Fuyumi-san, probably felt betrayed when it was revealed that Ryosuke is a hybrid, turned a cold back at him, unable to sustain her own feelings. And when Ryosuke claimed that he had killed his own mother, was probably an outcome of multiple misunderstandings and unstable emotions from the two party. Ryosuke probably unleashed his kagune and killed his mother by accident, being too young to control his own power with a frantic mind.
“Dad, please, can’t you do something about it ?” Yuto begged again, eyes red from too much crying.
“I’ll try.” Was what Nakajima could answer.
***
The result: Yamada Ryosuke’s true identity is concealed within him, with the consequence of him losing his memories.
He had thought that staying here any longer would be dangerous for both the boy and his son. Especially since he couldn’t be home all the time watching over them. And that was why, he made a quick phonecall to a certain person to ask for his help.
Through the years, Kota-kun and the gang had rescued abandoned ghouls to stay under their wings. An act which could only be done by them who had been rescued when they were younger. And so when he told them for their help to take Ryosuke under their care, they were more than willing to help. Nakajima contemplated to tell about Ryosuke’s background or not at first, before deciding that if they will take care of him, they might as well know about his past, so he told them the truth.
Kota-kun said nothing after he told the story, only giving him a long sigh after a long two minutes.
“I never know that person will go that far.” Kota-kun finally said. “Poor boy has to go through a lot because of his father. He’s surely deserves so much better.”
Nakajima released a breath of relief when he heard the young man said that. He had faith on Kota-kun, but he also had his doubts. Of whether the old pain might resurface with the mention of Yamada Tatsuhiro’s name.
“Yamada Tatsuhiro was evil, and I’m glad he’s finally gone forever. But that doesn’t make his bloodline evil as well. That Ryosuke boy, he has nothing to do with his father’s wrong-doing. His parents can be anything, but if he wished to, we are more than happy to accept him here.”
~~~End Of Part 4~~~
Another chapter to go and it's a wrap~
The story felt rushed, but I was too lazy to change it midway, so there you go.. *shot*
Please enjoy and do drop by to tell me your thoughts~ *grins*
Author :
zeon_avalanthe
Rating : PG-15 (For Violance and Dark Theme)
Genre : AU ; Angst
Pairing : YutoYama
Disclaimer : Everyone knows that I don't own any of those boys, sadly..
Summary : I have always wondered, why does this world have never been fair to the likes of us ? Was it so wrong to be born like this ? Do we have to be blamed for the fate we can't choose ? If so, then why did God created us ? Is there a purpose yet to be known for our existence ? Is there a meaning at all for us to continue living in this world where we could only suffer ?
Author's Note : The story was inspired heavily by anime Tokyo Ghoul.. Some of you who haven't watched or read Tokyo Ghoul might will be a little confused, so I will give a little explanation after the story, along with some other info you might want to know..
Author's Note 2 : Last spurt of this story guys~ I'm finishing this up today~ :)
*Crimson Fate - Part 4*
“I’m telling you that my newest research will be a great break for us !”
“But this is absurd, Yamada ! Whatever you are doing will change a lot, including our entity as a ghoul !”
The man called Yamada quickly shot his red eyes toward the other, all the while shoving the papers to his chest.
“You don’t understand, Yamashita ! This will change us, yes, but for the better ! My research will strengthened our power immensely, giving us more weapons, allowing us a chance to rule the world !”
“That’s not the point of us being researchers !” Yamashita roared back. “We should find a way for us to live on even ground with humans, find a way for the two species to live together in harmony ! We’re not trying to invent something to rule over them !”
“That’s why you’ve never make a progress !” Yamada shouted. “You’re too naive ! Those were just some ideals our superiors gave us to restrict us ! And do you want to know what will happen after we’ve satisfied their stupid wishes ? They will throw us away like somekind of overused trashes ! They will see us as a mere hindrance and rid of us ! We will not be recognized for our own achievement !”
Yamashita shook his head frantically. “But still, I cannot agree to this idea of yours. It’s far too insane. I can’t allow such thing to be done to our children.”
Yamada shot him one last sharp look before turning away.
“Suit yourself. But you better not regret ever refusing my offer.”
***
“Yamashita-sensei, there’s a letter for you.”
Yamashita looked up from the microscope he was working with to see one of his co-researcher stood by his side, an envelope on his hands.
“Thanks, Nakajima. You may return to your post.”
The younger man smiled before nodding his head.
“Understood, Sensei.”
After making sure no one is looking, Yamashita carefully opened the envelope and quickly read the letters. And gradually, his eyes filled with rage.
“That bastard !” He cursed under his breath as he took off his lab coat and slammed it to his seat. “I’m going out for a while everyone. Please contact me if anything happens.” Was the last thing he said before he rushed out of the door.
As soon as he reached his parked car, he fished out his phone to call a certain number.
“What do you think you are doing ?!” He shouted to the receiver.
“What do you mean ?” Asked the receiver calmly.
“Don’t you dare playing dumb with me, Yamada !” He threatened with a low voice.
A crisp laugh could be heard from the other line, and he felt his anger rising.
“I don’t remember having an obligation to tell you what I’m doing, though. Last time I checked, we’re no longer research-partners. Oh, it’s done ! Sorry, Yamashita, but I have to hung up. Goodbye.”
And just like that, the line was disconnected. Yamashita tried to call him back, but he seemed to have non-activated his phone. He cursed as he punched the steering-wheel as hard as he could. He tried every possible way to stop the madman from pursuing his wrecked-idea, and only one thing came up.
Taking a few breath, he re-opened his phone, and started typing, hoping that it will work somehow. Watching as his message being sent, his eyes drifted to the photograph on the dashboard, and he smiled. His hand slowly reached into the picture and caressed the boy who is laughing at him tenderly.
“I’m sorry, Tomo. Papa might not be able to teach you soccer again.”
A ringtone of his phone brought him back from his reverie. He quickly read the reply of his message and send back an ‘OK’ before shutting his phone down and drive away.
“This is for the best.”
***
From : Yamashita-Sensei
To : Nakajima Kazuhiro
Subject : Check my files
Nakajima, this is sudden, but I have a request for you. Please log into my PC and copy all the files. After that, delete everything on my PC. I can’t tell you much here, but I can tell you that it might concerns you as well. At least the reason why you joined our team in the first place.
Also, if anything were to happen to me, I believe I can trust you in taking care of things which are needed to be taken care of. But please, be discreet about everything and act as if you know nothing beside the research we are currently doing.
And one last thing, please keep this a secret from my family. I really don’t want to endanger them with the knowledge of this. You also may cut off of your relationship with people involved in this propaganda and start anew. But before that, this is just my selfish wish, I do hope you will take those boys away. Away from that man and from that inhuman idea.
I know I’m asking you a lot, but as it’d come to this, you are the only person I can trust with this task. I won’t force you to agree, for I know it’s a huge responsibility to carry, but please do know that you have my greatest gratitude if you choose to agree to my selfish request. But if you find yourself unable to do it, then I will not mind. It’s just, I hope you will keep this a secret from everyone, and that’s all.
I’m sorry for asking you this much, and thank you.
Yamashita Masahisa.
The moment he read the message, Nakajima knew what he would be doing. He owed the man a lot. Yamashita-sensei had known his reasons of joining his team ever since the first time they met, and he had encouraged him for it. He was the first to did so. Everyone else always tried to make him change his mind instead. They told him that he’s a failure as a ghoul, that he was doing a taboo, because he had fallen in love, with a human.
But Yamashita-sensei, had encouraged him instead. He had respected his wish to try and find a way for a ghoul to be able to live in harmony with a human, so that he could be with his beloved without anyone shooting them an angry glare everytime the passed by anyone. So that he could lead a normal family with his love and their future children. And Yamashita-sensei understood. He was the first and the only person to ever see his vision properly, without yelling at him or throwing him a disgusted look. He was also the only one who congrulated him when he married his lover.
And for such person, he’s willing to do anything, as long as he believed them to be right. And that was why, he send his affirmative reply as soon as he could, and adding a few words of hope that everything won’t take for the worst. That Yamashita-sensei will return by the night with his usual playful remarks and told him that he was just being paranoid after all.
But as he read through the said files, he gradually feel the dread rising within him. Things might turn nasty after all.
***
“Stop it, Yamada !”
The called guy looked up from whatever he was doing just in time to dodge a kagune aimed at him.
“What now, Yamashita ?” He asked, eyes squinting until they were barely visible.
“I will never allow you to proceed with this craziness !” And another attack came his way.
“Tsk.” Yamada muttered under his breath. “Such a bothersome.”
***
“I really am sorry for your husband’s death, Yamashita-san.”
The tired-looking woman looked up and smiled at seeing on of his husband’s former colleague.
“Thank you, Yamada-sensei. And though it’s unfortunate, I have to be strong for our son.” She averted her gaze to the picture of her deceased husband on the altar. “For sure, my husband would have wanted that.”
“He was such a great researcher. We had a lot of fun during our time of partnership. I really was disappointed when our contract ended. I still have a lot of things to learn from him, but now-“
“Oh, Masahisa-san...” The woman, unable to hold her tears anymore, finally broke down.
“It’s okay, Yamashita-san. Everything is going to be okay.” With a well-hidden smirk, Yamada caress the woman’s back as she cried her feelings out.
***
It was a year after Yamashita-sensei passed away, and Nakajima is trying to cope up with his newly built life with the love of his life. After the news of Yamashita-sensei’s death came, he knew that it was time to move. He left his resignation letter on the lab, and tried to erase as many proofs as possible of Yamashita-sensei’s secret research to prevent anyone from misusing them. He then left to retrieve the young men discreetly. He had researched everything about that place, and pretty confident on his timing to ‘kidnap’ them away. The four boys, all dirtied and lost, were at first frightened at his figure. But after he had told them that he’s a friend of Yamashita-sensei, they believed in him and followed him out.
After taking the boys with him, he stopped by one last place to meet a certain someone. There he greeted Yuumiko, the love of his live, and asked her to come with him. He was beyond happy when she nodded her head and they both left on their journey to a brand new world. For the first time in his life, he was happy that both him and Yuumiko had lost their parents young, and though Yuumiko had an older brother, they lived apart and not in good terms, so basically they don’t have to say goodbye to anyone.
Along the road, he tried to explain as best as he could to her, while keeping some informations to himself. He told her that he can’t tell her everything then though, and she had understood. She held his hand and assured him that they will overcome this together.
It’s almost a 24-hour-trip, and by the time they had arrived, the boys on the back had fallen asleep. Yuumiko slept somewhere on the way too, but had woken up two hours before their destination. He told her to try and wake the boys up, while he came down from the car and talked to the owner of the place they’re visiting.
“Kazu, it’d been long.”
He smiled at the old man and went to gave him a hug.
“Uncle, you don’t know how much I owe you for accepting my sudden request.” He told the man.
“What are you talking about ? We might no be connected by blood, but we’re still family nevertheless. And family helps each other. Beside, you father had helped me a lot in the past, it’s only make sense for me to return the favour by helping you out now.” The man gave him a warm smile. “Oh, is that your company ? Come, bring them in. They must have been exhausted after the long ride. Let them rest properly inside. I have prepared some rooms.”
“Uncle, thank you so much. I don’t know what to do if you’re not here.”
“Please, don’t mind it, son. You know I’m more than happy to be able to do something for you.” The old man squeeze his shoulder assuringly, before turning his head toward the rest of the group and ushered them inside.
“What’s their name ?” He asked once their inside, warm and clean.
“This is Yabu Kota-kun, the eldest of them all. On his right is Yaotome Hikaru-kun, and next to him is Inoo Kei-kun, the youngest. The quiet one here is Takaki Yuya-kun.”
The four boys smiled sheepishly upon being introduced and nodded their heads.
“Such young fellows. I like them. Their eyes shine. They will be some great people in the future, I’m sure.” He commented with a crisp smile. “And who’s this beautiful lady might be ?” He then turned to the only woman in the room.
“Ah, this lady here, Uncle, is my spouse, Yuumiko.” He announced.
The old man widened his eyes in surprise. “Spouse ? When did you get married, Kazu ? And why didn’t you tell me ?”
“I’m sorry, Uncle.” He scratched his head. “But a lot happened, and our marriage is not exactly something many people will agreed on, that’s why...” He trailed off, waiting for the old man to response but all he saw is an unreadable expression shone from the man’s eyes and not a word spoken for a few minutes. Fearing for the worst, Nakajima had started to think for another place to stay.
“I see.” The man spoke at last. “I’m sorry, I’m just, surprised, I think.” He told the company. “I mean, I wonder since when my little Kazu grew up and be a man and found his own love ? It felt only yesterday when you cried for being dumped by the girl you like. To think that you finally built your own family, was just a little surprising.”
Nakajima widened his eyes in surprise. He had never expected such reaction from the old man.
“Uncle, allow me to tell you one more time. Yuumiko here, she’s a-“
“Human, I know.” The old man cut him off before he could finish his sentence. “But then what ? Love is a mysterious thing, Kazu. But it is also very beautiful. Not everyone can experience a true love, so that’s why, when you think you found one, cherish them with all you’ve got. It doesn’t matter who your partner is. Just by being a different species cannot stop you from pursuing your true love. At least, that’s what I thought. Eh, Kazu ? Why are you crying ?”
And true, before he realized it, tears had streaming down his cheek. And he didn’t know why.
“I’m sorry. But, you’re the only person beside Yamashita-sensei to have agreed on my relationship with Yuumi. And I’m just, happy, I think.” He reasoned.
“Really ?” His Uncle commented. “Well I was always called the weirdo anyway. But I surely wanted to meet this Yamashita-sensei guy who apparently have the same vision as me.”
“You can’t.” Nakajima shook his head.
“Why can’t I ?” Asked the old man.
“Yamashita-sensei, he, he had passed away.” He finally dropped the bomb. He hadn’t told the news yet to the boys, but he might as well tell them anyway. “He passed away fighting for his belief. For our beliefs.”
And suddenly, the quietest boy among the four broke into a mess of cries and wails. And his cry, seemed to have triggered the cries of the the other three as well.
“Masa-kun ! *sob* Don’t die !”
“You promised, you promised us you will stay with us forever !”
“Masahisa-san ! Why ?!”
No one tried to stop them from crying the hearts out, for they know it might be best for them that way, rather than keep the feelings inside.
“They’re just kids.” A hand is placed on his shoulder, and Nakajima looked up to find Yuumiko standing on his side. “Poor them.”
“But this Yamashita guy, he must have been a great person.” His uncle commented lowly. “For them to cry this much, they must have love him greatly. If not, they wouldn’t feel so lost.”
“Yes.” Nakajima agreed, remembering the times with his teacher-like figure. “He was a great person. A very great person.”
***
It was a week after their arrival at his Uncle’s place, and Nakajima had talked things out with his Uncle and spouse as much as he could. Having the same vision as himself, his Uncle had supported him with the idea, and even offered to help. He told Nakajima that he will take care of the kids while he travel to gain more support and continuing Yamashita-sensei’s unfinished research. He was worried when he’s about to leave, of whether the boys will be alright or not, but as he made his way downstairs, he caught the boy diligently working on the coffee machine with his Uncle on the watch.
“I will take care of them. You worry for your own well-being. And your wive’s too. She’s on her third trimester, right? Make sure you don’t stress her out too much.” His Uncle told him as he climbed into his car.
“I won’t. Please don’t worry over us.” He sends the man a smile. “Uncle, you don’t know how much it meant to me. You’ve done so many, and I don’t know how to repay you for all your kindness.”
“Stay alive.” The old man spoke softly, yet a firm tone thick in his voice. “Stay alive and prove the world what you’re worth.”
“I will.” Yet another smile, gentler this time, was thrown toward the older man’s direction. “Thank you, Uncle Koichi.”
***
It’d been almost five years since Nakajima last visited his Uncle. They stayed in contacts still, and there’s where he found out that the the oldest of the four boys, Kota, had decided to successor of his Uncle’s coffee shop.
“He was reluctant at first, but I managed to make him take the offer, saying that I won’t live forever and needed someone to take over my shop after I go.” Was what his Uncle said in one phone call.
He also told his Uncle how his first son was born a full-ghoul for some reason. It was something he has yet to figure out, but he was glad more than anything, because that would mean that Yuto -the name he and Yuumiko had given to their son- will never face the obstacles of being a hybrid.
Their second son, however, was not as fortunate as Yuto was. Two years after Yuto was born, they were blessed with another child -another son- a healthy young boy they named Raiya. Unlike Yuto, Raiya didn’t posed red-eyes when he first cried, almost as if he’s a full-pledged human child. At least, that’s what they thought.
But around a year after Raiya was born, just a couple of days before Raiya’s first birthday, when the couple left their two sons alone in the playground, Yuto’s sudden shriek panicked them as they rushed to where the two boys are. Nakajima was beyond surprise when he found out their youngest son straddling his older brother with his newly-manifested kagune, his right eye shining a bloodshot red. And Yuto, even though he was already thought how to control his kagune to protect himself, was helpless against his two years younger brother. But what surprised them the most was not that. It was the fact that Raiya grinned -not the typical baby’s excited shriek, but a devilish grin- as he toppled over his older brother.
Nakajima was quick to tell his wive to wait outside before he released his own kagune and forced the tentacles-like kagune around Yuto’s body off. And using the time where Raiya was too surprised to react, he strike his son before catching him on his arms as he fell unconscious. As he felt his kagune dispersing, he turned to help his firstborn up from his position.
“Are you okay, son ?”
A visible red-lines around his neck and wrists and ankles were more than evidences to show the world that Yuto is clearly not okay. Especially when he trembles almost visibly with the colour of his face almost gone. But Yuto nodded anyway. He nodded his head for fear he will get his brother into trouble if he stated otherwise.
“It’s fine, Yuto. Everything’s going to be fine.” With his free arm, he pulled Yuto tight into him, giving him an encouraging hug.
***
Almost half a year later, and Nakajima finally found the correct formula as a result of his research. He was sure that it’s still incomplete, but felt safe enough to try it on his second son. The result, was rather satisfying if he has to say. Raiya was able to manifest a different kagune sometimes later, with both of his eyes turning red. He hoped the boy could grow up as a human rather as a ghoul, but decided that for the time being, it’s the best they could get. He could still work on the perfect formula later on.
But it appears as his laid-back decision was a prove of his immaturity, for he did not think of the consequence just in case something went wrong. He knew of the side-effects of course, and ever since had tried to keep Raiya as calm as he could, keeping his emotions at bay as to not to create an extreme change. Until one day, a nightmare change it all.
Nakajima decided to visit his Uncle after a long while with his whole family. After this long, he thought that it was time for Raiya to face the world. Raiya will need to go out eventually, and to make sure that things are under control even when the worst happened, his Uncle’s place might be the safest first destination.
His Uncle had welcomed him as warmly as he remembered. But what confused him was the absence of the four boys. So as his Uncle lead them to their temporary room, he asked the whereabout of the teens.
“They’re at school, of course.” Answered his Uncle lightly.
“School ?” He asked again.
“Yes, of course.” His Uncle said again. “I offered them to finish their study. Especially because we’re ghouls, we need to know how to blend with humans. And in order to do that, we have to enter the society. And beside, schools helped distracting them from unnecessary things. A lot will be gained there. Among the four, I personally think that Kei-kun might be the brightest. I have been thinking to have him take an entrance test for Todai or Meiji. But both Kota-kun and Hikaru-kun are in Waseda, and Yuya-kun said that he received an offer from a college in Osaka through swimming scholarship. I don’t know if he will want that test or not.”
“You haven’t told me.” He half-accused his Uncle.
“My bad.” The old man gave a low chuckle. “But it always slipped my mind. And I don’t really think it’s that important anyway.”
“It is important Uncle !” Nakajima insisted. “It must have cost you a lot for the school’s tuition and such.”
“Nonsense.” His Uncle laughed it off. “They gained their own money you know. For helping out in the shop and doing some other part-time jobs outside. Of course I told them that they don’t have to work part-time, but they insisted, so I let them be. And beside, they’re all smart kids. Kei-kun got a full scholarship ever since he first stepped into class. Yuya-kun proved his worth during swimming contest and earned himself scholarship through that. Kota-kun also worked diligently and be pro-active in every school events, making him the student council through high school which is the reason why Waseda recruited him to their university and offered him a full scholarship. Hikaru-kun showed his talent through art, which got himself a first prize that could last until the end of college. They’re not a bother at all, I assure you.”
“But still-“ Nakajima started.
“Let’s forget about it. There is another story which is more important than that.” His Uncle ushered him to his study for them to have a private talk. “I don’t know if you’ve heard about this or not yet, but it seems that the widow of Yamashita-sensei, Fuyumi-san, had remarried and already had a child from his second marriage.”
“She did ? I never know.” Nakajima expressed his surprise.
“Yes. But that’s not the main point.” His Uncle looked hesitant for a moment. “Apparently, her current spouse is none other than that Yamada Tatsuhiro-kun.”
Nakajima could only gasped in surprise.
***
As surprising as it might seem, the problem concerning Yamada Tatsuhiro marrying the late Yamashita-sensei’s widow didn’t stay for long. For just the day after the big announcement, another problem arises. A bigger problem.
They were visiting the amusement park near his Uncle’s place, and little Yuto was asking to visit the haunted house with his parents. And because of his condition, Raiya was not allowed to ride along, and so Uncle Koichi volunteered to take care of him while the three of them took he challenge, assured that nothing could go wrong anyway.
What they didn’t predict was a little fireworks triggered the unstability of Raiya’s emotions and thus, returning him to his original form. The toddler made a rampage with his unleashed form, attacking here and there, knowing no mercy. Uncle Koichi, by no means weak despite his age, was betting on his all when he transform and tried his best to keep Raiya at bay. But even with his advantages of power and experience, he was no match against a hybrid, even as young as Raiya is.
It was just their luck to find out that a couple of doves were on patrol around the area by then. The professional doves quickly called for backups while they equipped themselves with their quinques and made a move to stop Raiya from further damage. Uncle Koichi, in his last burst of power, tried his best to bring Raiya afar -to put things to an end his way. But being wounded, and having to fight two sides at a time was proven to be a tougher task than he’d imagined. And so the last thing he remembered was Raiya being captured by one of the dove.
At the time the other three Nakajimas ended their trip inside the haunted house, it was already too late. Before them, an unimaginable view awaited. They couldn’t even start to count how many lives were gone from the battle. Bloodied bodies lying everywhere, some of them lost parts. And on the other side of their view, a group of doves surrounding something.
Nakajima started to feel uneasy. He told his wive and firstborn to wait on the exit gate while he find out what’s happening. His wive, despite being reluctant, nodded her head and half-dragged Yuto to the opposite side. After making sure that the two of them are out of sights, Nakajima quietly approaching the commotion.
He was readying himself for the worst, but he mostly didn’t expected to see his second son lying lifelessly in the midst of the doves. Through their hectic talks upon figuring out what kind of creature Raiya is, Nakajima took a staggering steps back and begin his search for his Uncle. Not too far from that place, he found his Uncle lying motionless on the ground, and when he got there he realized that the man is still alive. It seems that seeing a hybrid is that important they seemingly forgot the existence of the other ghoul. Using the commotion, Nakajima picked the old man on his back and quickly fled the scene.
He said nothing when he met his wive and son, only signaling them to quickly follow him out. He placed his Uncle on the backseat, before driving away as fast as he could. Lucky for him that Kei-kun has the ability to heal, so as soon as they got home, he asked the boy to take care of his Uncle.
While the boy doing his job, he turned back to face his wive. Taking a deep breath, he finally dropped the bomb.
“I’m sorry, Yuumi. Raiya was found out by the doves. He, he was killed.”
***
His Uncle barely survived from the incident. He was conscious long enough to tell the family how sorry he was for not being able to take care of Raiya properly. Nakajima had told him that it’s okay, only because that seems to be the only thing chaining his Uncle down. The old man had smiled a sympathetic smile, before his eyes closed once again. This time, for eternity.
That very night, Nakajima readied himself to lose everything, when he decided to infiltrate the doves’ quarter to take Raiya’s body back. He couldn’t save his own son, the least thing he could do is to offer him a proper funeral. His wive had tried to stop him, but he told her that he needed to do this, and so she let him go.
It was through fighting a couple of doves and breaking a few system before he finally reached his destination. Taking out the body bag he had prepared earlier, Nakajima picked his son’s body carefully -placing a quick peck on his forehead on his way- and putting him inside the bag. He had expected more doves to be on his way, but it seems that they’re still busy figuring out the identity of the new-found ghoul.
He came back a little over midnight, only to find his wive still waiting where he left her. Running towards the woman, Nakajima pulled her into a tight embrace, and the two of them cried.
***
It was a simple funeral. They didn’t invite anyone. Just him, and his little family, with the four kids attending the funerals. Kota-kun had assured him that he will take care of Anteiku, so that Nakajima could focus on his research. He had said with burning eyes that this would be the last time of this kind of event from occuring. The discrimination over ghouls when all they wanted is simply a peace, should be ended. And the very person entrusted with the job was Nakajima.
He went back home soon after the funeral, before the doves making their further moves. Even then, as soon as they’re home, he realized that he couldn’t continue on with his research here. In this place full of Raiya’s memories. But at the same time, he can’t just abandon the place. And so, he and his wive made a decision. They will go for a trip in order to fulfil the research and leave the house in Yuto’s care. His wive was reluctant, for she thought Yuto was too young to be left alone. But it was Yuto himself who told them to just go.
And so off they go.
***
It’d been a few years since they start their journey, and Nakajima dare to say that they have made quite a progress. They visit home every once in a while, to check on Yuto and hear his every stories while they’re away. And so when one day, they got back to find their son in the company of another boy, they were beyond surprised.
Yuto had told them about the boy though, and of how he wished the boy could live together with him. He was reluctant, especially after knowing that the boy is the son of that Yamada Tatsuhiro, but Yuto was persisstent and he didn’t really have the heart to reject him, so he let him stay. The boy though, despite being shy and quiet, is as sweet as Yuto described him be. He’s easy to like, so no one would have thought of him having a dark past.
When on their journey, Nakajima found out about the death of Yamada Tatsuhiro, though the reason was yet to be known. And while he was originally surprised to hear about what had happened with the Yamada family afterwards -especially because Fuyumi-san was known to be a gentle woman who would never play cold toward her own son- he had predicted that there is something more on the story.
He bid Yuto and the boy goodbye the next morning. To resume their journey, as well as finding out the truth behind Yamada Tatsuhiro.
***
He found out soon enough from Yamada Tatsuhiro’s former co-researcher. The man told him he followed Yamada-sensei because he thought that the man was right about his idea. Only to find out later how wrong he was when he made the decision. It was too late to quit, though, for he knew very well what Yamada was capable off. So reluctantly, he continue on with the research.
It seems that Yamada Tatsuhiro was trying to make his own hybrid species. And had tested it on some. That much, he knew. But apparently he had went worse after that. He tried to make his own army of hybrids through blood. And so he invented a serum, injected it to his own vein, and created a bloodline.
“So that was the reason why he married Fuyumi-san ? To test on his idea of creating a hybrid army from his own children ? How cruel that would be ?!” He yelled in bewilderment.
“I know.” The man nodded his head. “I tried to stop him, too. Telling him the risks of it. But Yamada-sensei wouldn’t listen. In fact, he denied me from his main research from then on, only allowing me on small jobs. But I was still able to smuggled some informations, though I could do nothing to stop him.”
“About his death,” Nakajima started. “Do you know something about his death ?”
“It was only a rumour,” The man hesitated. “But I heard that Yamada-sensei was trying to turn himself into a hybrid. But something went wrong and he ended up unable to sustain the change, thus ending his own life. But it was only a rumour. I don’t know how much of it is true.”
“I see.” He nodded. “That’s enough, Masuda-kun. Thank you for telling me.”
***
He rushed home as soon as he received a frantic phonecall from Yuto, telling him that something went wrong with Ryosuke -the boy.
When they got home, Yuto told him that Ryosuke looked like Raiya when he was upset, that he is a hybrid. He cried to us, telling us how he didn’t want Ryosuke to end up like Raiya did, begging us to do something about it.
And as I draped my arms around Yuto’s shaking figure, I put two and two together.
Yamada Tatsuhiro had succeeded in creating a hybrid through his research. And Fuyumi-san, probably felt betrayed when it was revealed that Ryosuke is a hybrid, turned a cold back at him, unable to sustain her own feelings. And when Ryosuke claimed that he had killed his own mother, was probably an outcome of multiple misunderstandings and unstable emotions from the two party. Ryosuke probably unleashed his kagune and killed his mother by accident, being too young to control his own power with a frantic mind.
“Dad, please, can’t you do something about it ?” Yuto begged again, eyes red from too much crying.
“I’ll try.” Was what Nakajima could answer.
***
The result: Yamada Ryosuke’s true identity is concealed within him, with the consequence of him losing his memories.
He had thought that staying here any longer would be dangerous for both the boy and his son. Especially since he couldn’t be home all the time watching over them. And that was why, he made a quick phonecall to a certain person to ask for his help.
Through the years, Kota-kun and the gang had rescued abandoned ghouls to stay under their wings. An act which could only be done by them who had been rescued when they were younger. And so when he told them for their help to take Ryosuke under their care, they were more than willing to help. Nakajima contemplated to tell about Ryosuke’s background or not at first, before deciding that if they will take care of him, they might as well know about his past, so he told them the truth.
Kota-kun said nothing after he told the story, only giving him a long sigh after a long two minutes.
“I never know that person will go that far.” Kota-kun finally said. “Poor boy has to go through a lot because of his father. He’s surely deserves so much better.”
Nakajima released a breath of relief when he heard the young man said that. He had faith on Kota-kun, but he also had his doubts. Of whether the old pain might resurface with the mention of Yamada Tatsuhiro’s name.
“Yamada Tatsuhiro was evil, and I’m glad he’s finally gone forever. But that doesn’t make his bloodline evil as well. That Ryosuke boy, he has nothing to do with his father’s wrong-doing. His parents can be anything, but if he wished to, we are more than happy to accept him here.”
~~~End Of Part 4~~~
Another chapter to go and it's a wrap~
The story felt rushed, but I was too lazy to change it midway, so there you go.. *shot*
Please enjoy and do drop by to tell me your thoughts~ *grins*