[手放す] Please Tell Me It's All a Lie
Title: Please Tell Me It's All a Lie
Author: Shattered Tenshi and Kira Shadow
Rating: PG
Fandom: JE
Genre: AU, Angst
Pairing: Senga Kento x Fujigaya Taisuke, one-sided Takizawa Hideaki (Tono) x Fujigaya Taisuke, one-sided Nikaido Takashi x Senga Kento, a little Kitayama Hiromitsu x Fujigaya Taisuke.
Warnings: Senga is quite emotional.
Notes: Tono is a feudal lord, for those who doesn't know. Another installment in Senga's POV, written round-robin style.
Summary:
手放す: to part with; to release; to relinquish; to send away
A person must learn to let go of certain things if he wishes to move forward.
What can you do when everything you've come to know and believe gets turned around?
(For more of the universe, click here.)
Please Tell Me It's All a Lie
By Shattered Tenshi and Kira Shadow
"Travelling?" Kento blinked in surprise, not quite understanding what Yara just told him.
Yara nodded his head. "Yes, we're going to be travelling with Tono. Apparently it's a remote part of the country, but Tono needs to go there to negotiate a deal and before the negotiations begin, there will be a banquet of sorts, so Tono would like us to go along, so we can perform there." He paused, then added, "And well, of course, during the night as well." He didn't say anymore, but it was clear what the other had meant.
Once Yara had left after explaining more about the trip to them, Kento could feel a slight excitement bubbling up within him. Travelling! He had never really travelled properly before, and now he had a chance!
"Travelling, huh..." Ryota murmured beside him.
"You're not excited?" Kento asked.
Ryota shook his head. "I never said that. I'm just wondering what that part of the country will be like..."
"Oh..." Kento wrinkled his nose slightly. Would it be completely different from life at the castle? He had lived outside the castle before of course, before he became Tono's dancer, but would that part of the country be like that, or even worse? Was that possible? Kento felt like more and more questions were arising within him.
After exchanging a few more words with Ryota and the rest of his group, Kento headed back to his room. His room. It was no longer their room, and Kento still had a hard time adjusting to that idea.
When he got back, he wasn't surprised to see Nikaido standing outside. He has rather gotten used to it, but both he and Nikaido knew that it didn't really mean anything, letting Nikaido stay by his side.
"I'm one of the guards chosen to go along on this journey," Nikaido spoke up.
Kento poured himself a cup of tea and looked at Nikaido. "You knew I was called by Yara-kun and told about this journey?"
Nikaido shook his head. "No, but it wasn't hard to guess."
"...have you ever been to that part of the country before?"
Nikaido hesitated for a moment before shaking his head. "Not exactly there, but close."
"Close?" Kento tilted his head. Kento wondered if that was a look of guilt or even fear he saw on Nikaido's face.
"I've got to get back to my duties." With a bow of his head, Nikaido ran off.
"Wai-" The other was already gone though, so Kento sat back down at the table.
Travelling. He wondered what would happen on this trip.
The actual trip to wherever they were going was a little less pleasant than Kento would have imagine travelling to be. Tono and his trusted advisor were riding along with the guards, while Kento and the rest of the dance troupe were all squished into a tiny horse carriage. It was like a wodden box on wheels, without any windows or any other sitting comfort. They were sitting or lying on the floor, so that they wouldn't damage their legs, or lower bodies, in any way.
When their arrived at their destination, Kento was surprised to see a rather modest manor instead of a castle of some sort. They had been told beforehand that Tono was going to negotiate a deal with the local lord of the region, so that had expected about the same grandeur as at the castle. But this was nowhere near the size of the castle. It looked so normal. Even the man who'd come out to greet Tono and Yokoyama-sama wore strikingly normal garments. If it weren't for the sword, Kento could have mistaken the man for a simple farmer or servant, really. It was a stark contrast to the gold embroided clothes that Tono wore or the silk Yokoyama-sama was entitled to. Even Kento's clothes looked to be of a finer material than those of the man in front of them.
"Takizawa-dono, Yokoyama-sama. I apologize that the master of the house is not able to greet you in person. He has no ill intentions but he has simply not yet returned from the hunt. It would be unfortunate if he returned empty handed, seeing that if he did so, the menu for the banquet would consist only of rice and vegetables. So let me welcome you in his stead. My name is Totsuka Shota and I will be happy to answer any questions you might have. If it so pleases you, I will lead you to the chambers prepared for you," he greeted Tono.
Kento felt horribly stiff and he tried to stretch a little. It was almost enough for him to swore off travelling ever again in his life, but then he remembered they would have to travel back to the castle in the same way, and quickly, his mood dropped again a little.
He let out a small yelp when an elbow nudged him sharply. "R-Ryota?"
"You're representing Tono right now!" Ryota reminded him in a whisper. "Look a little better, alright? I know the journey wasn't great and all..."
Kento blushed. It was embarrassing to have to be pointed out his mistakes when Ryota and he were around the same age. It might have been better if Ryouichi had been the one to scold him. Or even better, Yara, but Ryota being the one beside him was the one who noticed. Maybe Ryota didn't want to cause any trouble for Yara. He knew how much Ryota admired Yara.
They were led into the manor and basically the whole southern wing of it had been designated as their quarters. Tono, Yokoyama-sama and Totsuka-sama had disappeared into the largest room, probably to get things settled and what not. Kento didn't really know or particularly care about politics. He didn't have to after all. He and the others were led to a smaller room not far from Tono's.
"The banquet will start in two hours...I want you to get ready in time. That means getting dressed properly and warmed up," Yara instructed them.
A chorus of voices responded to Yara, and soon, they were left alone to get ready.
Kento was the first to curl up by the fireplace to warm himself up. "Mh, warm..."
"Don't spend too long there," Kento heard Ryouichi comment.
"I won't," Kento replied. "It feels good though." He figured the rest of them decided to change first before warming themselves up until it was time.
Kento closed his eyes, and a moment later, he felt someone shaking him. "Kento! Wake up! You're going to run out of time!"
"Mh?" He fluttered his eyes open. Did he end up falling asleep?
Ryota was glaring at Kento. "Get dressed. Now!"
Kento let out a squeak and immediately got up, finding his change of clothes. After he changed, he started to work on his hair, but he heard Ryota let out a sigh of frustration. "You won't finish in time at this rate! I'll help you."
"Don't have to be so impatient," Bunichi commented from the side as he fixed his own hair leisurely.
Ryota's lips tugged downwards. "Kento will be in the center of the formation often though. We can't have him looking bad! I'll make him look pretty!"
Suddenly, Kento remembered how Taisuke had always helped him look pretty and his heart ached. He moved his leg purposely and listened to the bells of his anklet. If Taisuke was still here, would he have travelled with them? Or would Tono have left Taisuke back in the castle?
He had always worn the anklet in front of Tono, but the other had never really paid attention. Kento thought Tono recognized it, when Tono first saw him wear it, but there was no comment from Tono, and Kento just didn't know anymore.
Kento just really wanted Tono to remember Taisuke, then maybe, Taisuke would have a reason to come back to the castle.
"You're such a perfectionist, Ryota," Kento heard Bunichi comment and he managed to smile a little bit at his friends' friendly banter. Yeah, he couldn't get all depressed now. He knew he was bad at hiding it so if he looked all sad later on at the banquet, it would make Tono look bad, too.
When the banquet started, they were led into the large dining room of the manor. They were told to kneel a few paces behind Tono and wait for their call. The lord of the house and his dancers would be opening the banquet as hosts after all.
"Welcome to this humble abode, Takizawa-dono and entourage. I apologize for my absence at your arrival but I shall make up to it with this feast. Make yourself comfortable but I do remind you that this is my territory and that different rules and laws are in place here than they are at your castle. You are guests and we are bound by the armistice," the other lord spoke calmly. Kento couldn't see the man properly because there were people in front of him, serving them tea and what not. He was a bit surprised to be treated like this. It was certainly the first time for them to be served at a formal banquet. Usually he and the others would eat before or once they were dismissed.
"But enough of the serious talk. Please enjoy yourself tonight. Our two best dancers have graced us with their attendance tonight, so please do enjoy their dance." There was something in the other's voice that made Kento a little nervous. It sounded like some kind of underlying threat? Or maybe that was too extreme. At least it didn't really sound like it was just a pleasant invitation, like the words would suggest.
Soon, Kento noticed two figures walking towards the middle of the room. Their faces were covered with a veil, only showing their eyes. He tried to look left and right, wanting to take a proper look at the dancers, but a glare from Ryota made him sat back down properly.
At first, Kento had just watched the dancers with curiosity as they prepared themselves, getting into position, since he wanted to see what other dances these people might show, but the moment the dance started, his face paled. He would recognize that dancing style anywhere.
Were those tears forming in his eyes? Kento wasn't sure. He found himself unable to sit on his feet properly, and slouched down with surprise.
"Kento!" Ryota hissed. "Sit properly!"
Kento didn't hear Ryota though, and just felt his heart beat abnormally fast in his chest. He was almost certain everyone in the room could hear his heart thumping. He turned to look at Yara and saw the other looked surprise. He must have recognized the dance style too right?
Kento wished he could see Tono's expression properly, but he couldn't, considering where they were sitting. Did Tono recognize the dance as well?
Placing a hand over his chest, Kento mumbled to himself, "It's Taisuke...Taisuke..." He was sure of it. This couldn't be anyone else. Although the dance looked somewhat different than what he remembered it to be like, it was still that distinct style of dancing.
He kept his eyes fixed on the figure the entire time, unable to take his eyes off even for just a moment.
The dance finished too soon for his liking and the dancers retreated. His eyes followed Taisuke and to his surprise, or maybe even horror, he watched how the other draped himself over the other lord's lap. They were in public! This was a banquet! Things like that...things like that only happened afterwards...
Kento watched as the other lord pulled Taisuke closer and murmured something into Taisuke's ear. Was that laughter he heard from Taisuke? They were sitting too far, he couldn't tell. A blush was slowly forming on Kento's cheeks. He was not used to seeing this out in public.
As if there weren't enough surprises already, the other lord actually took off Taisuke's veil and kissed him in front of everyone!
Kento wasn't sure if his face was white or red now. He could hear people from their side, whispering in anger and embarrassment. No, none of them was used to this kind of public display of affection at all.
There was no doubt about it now though. Kento could see the dancer's face clearly, and it was Taisuke. Taisuke...Taisuke who was smiling, who had been dancing just before, who was kissing someone else...
Kento clutched his clothes, right above where his heart was. It was hurting so much. Was Taisuke healed? Did someone else other than him manage to heal Taisuke?
Suddenly remembering, his eyes started to search for Nikaido in the guards. Once their eyes met, Kento glared at Nikaido, despite how pale the other's face was, clearly surprised at Taisuke being there as well.
He'd have to remember to talk to the other later. And this time Nikaido wouldn't have an excuse to get away. But now he needed to clear his head. It was their turn to dance now.
Kento noticed that he wasn't the only one who'd been shocked at Taisuke's appearance. Tono seemed to be a bit off as well. But when Kento followed Tono's line of sight, it wasn't looking just at Taisuke and the other lord but also at the other dancer, who had taken his veil off now as well. What was going on here? He wanted answers but he knew he wouldn't be getting any anytime soon. He had to concentrate on dancing first now.
Once their dance was finished, the rest of the banquet just passed by in a blur. Kento could vaguely remember Ryota scolding him for being out of it, and wondering why Yara wasn't saying anything about it. Didn't Ryota recognize Taisuke? They all knew Taisuke. Why didn't they act more surprised like him? Had they forgotten Taisuke so easily?
Ignoring Ryouichi's comment about how he shouldn't wander too far or come back too late, Kento left their room and went for a walk. Maybe it wasn't just a walk. He wanted to find Taisuke and actually talk to the other. Or find Nikaido and get an answer out of the other. Still, Taisuke came first.
Kento was surprised though to find the person he had been looking for walking right towards him.
"Kento..."
Frozen in shock, Kento felt his mouth drop open slightly before he was shaken out of his reverie and ran towards the other, throwing his arms around him. "Taisuke! Taisuke! It really is you...!"
He could feel how the other was petting his head gently but then a pair of hands settled on his shoulders and pushed him away a little. He blinked up at Taisuke in confusion.
"I'm no longer 'Taisuke', Kento. Taisuke is dead now. My name...is Fujigaya Taisuke."
"F-Fu..." Kento's eyes widened. "But...no...! You're Taisuke! That's the only name you have! Like I only have the name Kento...Taisuke...!"
Taisuke shook his head. "No, Kento. Fujigaya Taisuke is my proper name. I'm not lying."
"B-but..." Kento tried to hug Taisuke again. "Why...I miss you, Taisuke! I want you to come back. Tono, Tono, he remembered the anklet!" The lie had slipped out as Kento felt more and more desperate. "Please..."
He swore there was a flicker of some emotion in Taisuke's eyes when he lied about the anklet. But it disappeared so quickly...it could've just been his imagination.
"I am not the one you used to know, Kento. I have changed. I no longer have any business with Takizawa-dono."
"T-Taki..." Kento's eyes widened once again. "Why..."
Taisuke smiled and laughed lightly. "You really should believe me when I say I've changed, Kento." He pressed a kiss on Kento's forehead. "I won't be going back."
Kento's grip on Taisuke loosened. "You...you didn't miss me?"
Taisuke shook his head. "I never said that. I missed you too, but I won't change my mind."
Before Kento could say anything else, they were interrupted by a woman, who came down the hallway they were standing in. "Fujigaya-kun, I finally found you...! What are you doing here in these parts of the manor? You know it's the guests- oh, there's someone with you. Excuse my rudeness. Anyways...here, have this. We're sorting through the left-overs of the banquet. And well, we know you like these. So please enjoy them." She had handed the other a couple of sweets. Kento recognized them. Taisuke had loved those back at the castle as well. But the thing that had struck him more just then, had been what the woman had called the other.
Fujigaya.
Kento's arms fell to his side and slowly, he slid down on his knees. Taisuke, he really had thrown away everything at the castle, including his feelings towards Tono. What had he been doing then, taking Taisuke's place and remaining by Tono's side? Had all of that been useless?
He vaguely recognized Taisuke's voice thanking the woman and soon, Taisuke crouched down in front of him, staring into Kento's eyes. "Don't be like this please, Kento... Life here, it's a lot more suitable for me."
"But..." How could he put it into words? Kento wanted to ask the other so many things. Wanted to ask how Taisuke was able to just throw away...throw away his past like that...
Taisuke was stroking Kento's hair again. "You were really pretty during the dance tonight. It's nice to know that you're doing well."
Kento shook his head. "No, no...!" He threw his arms around Taisuke again. "I'm not well! I just want you beside me again, Taisuke! I'm only dancing because I believe Taisuke will come back. We've never danced together before for Tono, right? I want to dance with Taisuke again, just for Tono..."
A sigh was heard. Taisuke placed a hand on Kento's shoulder, but didn't push him away. "Kento. I'm not leaving here," he said firmly. "If you really want to be with me, are you willing to leave everything then? Are you willing to leave Takizawa-dono's side?"
Leave...?
"I...I can't...! That would be...that would be treason!" Kento squeaked.
Taisuke smiled softly. "Really? Sometimes though, Kento, living for yourself is a lot more important than caring about things like loyalty and treason. I won't force you to leave Takizawa-dono." He kissed Kento on the lips lightly. "If you ever think about leaving one day though, you're always welcome here. Take care of yourself, alright, Kento?" He stood up, pulling Kento along with him. "And that anklet, I think it'd be better if you throw it away." He gave Kento another kiss before turning around and walked away.
This was what he had wished for for so long but why did it feel so wrong? So empty? Taisuke's words and actions hurt so much. Kento didn't know how much of it he could stand.
He wasn't sure how long he stood out there, trying to make his heart hurt a little less, but he could feel himself getting colder and colder.
"Kento? What are you doing out here?"
Turning around slowly, Kento found Nikaido hurrying towards him.
"Aren't you cold? You really should go back to your room." Nikaido reached out for a moment but hesitated before pulling his hand back.
For some reason, Kento felt something within him snap and he raised his hand, slapping Nikaido across the cheek. "It's all your fault! I told you to give Taisuke back to me! Why didn't you!? Now, now, Taisuke will never come back!"
A tear fell down Kento's cheek. Before Nikaido could react, he ran away.
Suddenly, everything had changed, and Kento just didn't know what to believe anymore.
Author's Notes: ...pffft, I seem to like cheesy titles lately. And they're all kind of long too. Maybe it's this universe's fault. Since things were a bit vague for both of us, Kira and I decided to write this installment round-robin style! That, and it's faster for us, you know, writing in parts, and combining ideas instead of writing everything on your own. Hopefully, the change in styles isn't really sharp and won't distract you people from reading.
For now we're still writing in chronological order, but sooner or later, we'll be moving out of that. Just so you know. //nods//
Poor Nika. //pets him// He got slapped.
Um, what else?
Comments are love and appreciated~
(Like, really. =| It'd be nice to know if people are enjoying this universe or not. Even if it's just a short comment...it'd make us really happy!)
Author: Shattered Tenshi and Kira Shadow
Rating: PG
Fandom: JE
Genre: AU, Angst
Pairing: Senga Kento x Fujigaya Taisuke, one-sided Takizawa Hideaki (Tono) x Fujigaya Taisuke, one-sided Nikaido Takashi x Senga Kento, a little Kitayama Hiromitsu x Fujigaya Taisuke.
Warnings: Senga is quite emotional.
Notes: Tono is a feudal lord, for those who doesn't know. Another installment in Senga's POV, written round-robin style.
Summary:
手放す: to part with; to release; to relinquish; to send away
A person must learn to let go of certain things if he wishes to move forward.
What can you do when everything you've come to know and believe gets turned around?
(For more of the universe, click here.)
Please Tell Me It's All a Lie
By Shattered Tenshi and Kira Shadow
"Travelling?" Kento blinked in surprise, not quite understanding what Yara just told him.
Yara nodded his head. "Yes, we're going to be travelling with Tono. Apparently it's a remote part of the country, but Tono needs to go there to negotiate a deal and before the negotiations begin, there will be a banquet of sorts, so Tono would like us to go along, so we can perform there." He paused, then added, "And well, of course, during the night as well." He didn't say anymore, but it was clear what the other had meant.
Once Yara had left after explaining more about the trip to them, Kento could feel a slight excitement bubbling up within him. Travelling! He had never really travelled properly before, and now he had a chance!
"Travelling, huh..." Ryota murmured beside him.
"You're not excited?" Kento asked.
Ryota shook his head. "I never said that. I'm just wondering what that part of the country will be like..."
"Oh..." Kento wrinkled his nose slightly. Would it be completely different from life at the castle? He had lived outside the castle before of course, before he became Tono's dancer, but would that part of the country be like that, or even worse? Was that possible? Kento felt like more and more questions were arising within him.
After exchanging a few more words with Ryota and the rest of his group, Kento headed back to his room. His room. It was no longer their room, and Kento still had a hard time adjusting to that idea.
When he got back, he wasn't surprised to see Nikaido standing outside. He has rather gotten used to it, but both he and Nikaido knew that it didn't really mean anything, letting Nikaido stay by his side.
"I'm one of the guards chosen to go along on this journey," Nikaido spoke up.
Kento poured himself a cup of tea and looked at Nikaido. "You knew I was called by Yara-kun and told about this journey?"
Nikaido shook his head. "No, but it wasn't hard to guess."
"...have you ever been to that part of the country before?"
Nikaido hesitated for a moment before shaking his head. "Not exactly there, but close."
"Close?" Kento tilted his head. Kento wondered if that was a look of guilt or even fear he saw on Nikaido's face.
"I've got to get back to my duties." With a bow of his head, Nikaido ran off.
"Wai-" The other was already gone though, so Kento sat back down at the table.
Travelling. He wondered what would happen on this trip.
The actual trip to wherever they were going was a little less pleasant than Kento would have imagine travelling to be. Tono and his trusted advisor were riding along with the guards, while Kento and the rest of the dance troupe were all squished into a tiny horse carriage. It was like a wodden box on wheels, without any windows or any other sitting comfort. They were sitting or lying on the floor, so that they wouldn't damage their legs, or lower bodies, in any way.
When their arrived at their destination, Kento was surprised to see a rather modest manor instead of a castle of some sort. They had been told beforehand that Tono was going to negotiate a deal with the local lord of the region, so that had expected about the same grandeur as at the castle. But this was nowhere near the size of the castle. It looked so normal. Even the man who'd come out to greet Tono and Yokoyama-sama wore strikingly normal garments. If it weren't for the sword, Kento could have mistaken the man for a simple farmer or servant, really. It was a stark contrast to the gold embroided clothes that Tono wore or the silk Yokoyama-sama was entitled to. Even Kento's clothes looked to be of a finer material than those of the man in front of them.
"Takizawa-dono, Yokoyama-sama. I apologize that the master of the house is not able to greet you in person. He has no ill intentions but he has simply not yet returned from the hunt. It would be unfortunate if he returned empty handed, seeing that if he did so, the menu for the banquet would consist only of rice and vegetables. So let me welcome you in his stead. My name is Totsuka Shota and I will be happy to answer any questions you might have. If it so pleases you, I will lead you to the chambers prepared for you," he greeted Tono.
Kento felt horribly stiff and he tried to stretch a little. It was almost enough for him to swore off travelling ever again in his life, but then he remembered they would have to travel back to the castle in the same way, and quickly, his mood dropped again a little.
He let out a small yelp when an elbow nudged him sharply. "R-Ryota?"
"You're representing Tono right now!" Ryota reminded him in a whisper. "Look a little better, alright? I know the journey wasn't great and all..."
Kento blushed. It was embarrassing to have to be pointed out his mistakes when Ryota and he were around the same age. It might have been better if Ryouichi had been the one to scold him. Or even better, Yara, but Ryota being the one beside him was the one who noticed. Maybe Ryota didn't want to cause any trouble for Yara. He knew how much Ryota admired Yara.
They were led into the manor and basically the whole southern wing of it had been designated as their quarters. Tono, Yokoyama-sama and Totsuka-sama had disappeared into the largest room, probably to get things settled and what not. Kento didn't really know or particularly care about politics. He didn't have to after all. He and the others were led to a smaller room not far from Tono's.
"The banquet will start in two hours...I want you to get ready in time. That means getting dressed properly and warmed up," Yara instructed them.
A chorus of voices responded to Yara, and soon, they were left alone to get ready.
Kento was the first to curl up by the fireplace to warm himself up. "Mh, warm..."
"Don't spend too long there," Kento heard Ryouichi comment.
"I won't," Kento replied. "It feels good though." He figured the rest of them decided to change first before warming themselves up until it was time.
Kento closed his eyes, and a moment later, he felt someone shaking him. "Kento! Wake up! You're going to run out of time!"
"Mh?" He fluttered his eyes open. Did he end up falling asleep?
Ryota was glaring at Kento. "Get dressed. Now!"
Kento let out a squeak and immediately got up, finding his change of clothes. After he changed, he started to work on his hair, but he heard Ryota let out a sigh of frustration. "You won't finish in time at this rate! I'll help you."
"Don't have to be so impatient," Bunichi commented from the side as he fixed his own hair leisurely.
Ryota's lips tugged downwards. "Kento will be in the center of the formation often though. We can't have him looking bad! I'll make him look pretty!"
Suddenly, Kento remembered how Taisuke had always helped him look pretty and his heart ached. He moved his leg purposely and listened to the bells of his anklet. If Taisuke was still here, would he have travelled with them? Or would Tono have left Taisuke back in the castle?
He had always worn the anklet in front of Tono, but the other had never really paid attention. Kento thought Tono recognized it, when Tono first saw him wear it, but there was no comment from Tono, and Kento just didn't know anymore.
Kento just really wanted Tono to remember Taisuke, then maybe, Taisuke would have a reason to come back to the castle.
"You're such a perfectionist, Ryota," Kento heard Bunichi comment and he managed to smile a little bit at his friends' friendly banter. Yeah, he couldn't get all depressed now. He knew he was bad at hiding it so if he looked all sad later on at the banquet, it would make Tono look bad, too.
When the banquet started, they were led into the large dining room of the manor. They were told to kneel a few paces behind Tono and wait for their call. The lord of the house and his dancers would be opening the banquet as hosts after all.
"Welcome to this humble abode, Takizawa-dono and entourage. I apologize for my absence at your arrival but I shall make up to it with this feast. Make yourself comfortable but I do remind you that this is my territory and that different rules and laws are in place here than they are at your castle. You are guests and we are bound by the armistice," the other lord spoke calmly. Kento couldn't see the man properly because there were people in front of him, serving them tea and what not. He was a bit surprised to be treated like this. It was certainly the first time for them to be served at a formal banquet. Usually he and the others would eat before or once they were dismissed.
"But enough of the serious talk. Please enjoy yourself tonight. Our two best dancers have graced us with their attendance tonight, so please do enjoy their dance." There was something in the other's voice that made Kento a little nervous. It sounded like some kind of underlying threat? Or maybe that was too extreme. At least it didn't really sound like it was just a pleasant invitation, like the words would suggest.
Soon, Kento noticed two figures walking towards the middle of the room. Their faces were covered with a veil, only showing their eyes. He tried to look left and right, wanting to take a proper look at the dancers, but a glare from Ryota made him sat back down properly.
At first, Kento had just watched the dancers with curiosity as they prepared themselves, getting into position, since he wanted to see what other dances these people might show, but the moment the dance started, his face paled. He would recognize that dancing style anywhere.
Were those tears forming in his eyes? Kento wasn't sure. He found himself unable to sit on his feet properly, and slouched down with surprise.
"Kento!" Ryota hissed. "Sit properly!"
Kento didn't hear Ryota though, and just felt his heart beat abnormally fast in his chest. He was almost certain everyone in the room could hear his heart thumping. He turned to look at Yara and saw the other looked surprise. He must have recognized the dance style too right?
Kento wished he could see Tono's expression properly, but he couldn't, considering where they were sitting. Did Tono recognize the dance as well?
Placing a hand over his chest, Kento mumbled to himself, "It's Taisuke...Taisuke..." He was sure of it. This couldn't be anyone else. Although the dance looked somewhat different than what he remembered it to be like, it was still that distinct style of dancing.
He kept his eyes fixed on the figure the entire time, unable to take his eyes off even for just a moment.
The dance finished too soon for his liking and the dancers retreated. His eyes followed Taisuke and to his surprise, or maybe even horror, he watched how the other draped himself over the other lord's lap. They were in public! This was a banquet! Things like that...things like that only happened afterwards...
Kento watched as the other lord pulled Taisuke closer and murmured something into Taisuke's ear. Was that laughter he heard from Taisuke? They were sitting too far, he couldn't tell. A blush was slowly forming on Kento's cheeks. He was not used to seeing this out in public.
As if there weren't enough surprises already, the other lord actually took off Taisuke's veil and kissed him in front of everyone!
Kento wasn't sure if his face was white or red now. He could hear people from their side, whispering in anger and embarrassment. No, none of them was used to this kind of public display of affection at all.
There was no doubt about it now though. Kento could see the dancer's face clearly, and it was Taisuke. Taisuke...Taisuke who was smiling, who had been dancing just before, who was kissing someone else...
Kento clutched his clothes, right above where his heart was. It was hurting so much. Was Taisuke healed? Did someone else other than him manage to heal Taisuke?
Suddenly remembering, his eyes started to search for Nikaido in the guards. Once their eyes met, Kento glared at Nikaido, despite how pale the other's face was, clearly surprised at Taisuke being there as well.
He'd have to remember to talk to the other later. And this time Nikaido wouldn't have an excuse to get away. But now he needed to clear his head. It was their turn to dance now.
Kento noticed that he wasn't the only one who'd been shocked at Taisuke's appearance. Tono seemed to be a bit off as well. But when Kento followed Tono's line of sight, it wasn't looking just at Taisuke and the other lord but also at the other dancer, who had taken his veil off now as well. What was going on here? He wanted answers but he knew he wouldn't be getting any anytime soon. He had to concentrate on dancing first now.
Once their dance was finished, the rest of the banquet just passed by in a blur. Kento could vaguely remember Ryota scolding him for being out of it, and wondering why Yara wasn't saying anything about it. Didn't Ryota recognize Taisuke? They all knew Taisuke. Why didn't they act more surprised like him? Had they forgotten Taisuke so easily?
Ignoring Ryouichi's comment about how he shouldn't wander too far or come back too late, Kento left their room and went for a walk. Maybe it wasn't just a walk. He wanted to find Taisuke and actually talk to the other. Or find Nikaido and get an answer out of the other. Still, Taisuke came first.
Kento was surprised though to find the person he had been looking for walking right towards him.
"Kento..."
Frozen in shock, Kento felt his mouth drop open slightly before he was shaken out of his reverie and ran towards the other, throwing his arms around him. "Taisuke! Taisuke! It really is you...!"
He could feel how the other was petting his head gently but then a pair of hands settled on his shoulders and pushed him away a little. He blinked up at Taisuke in confusion.
"I'm no longer 'Taisuke', Kento. Taisuke is dead now. My name...is Fujigaya Taisuke."
"F-Fu..." Kento's eyes widened. "But...no...! You're Taisuke! That's the only name you have! Like I only have the name Kento...Taisuke...!"
Taisuke shook his head. "No, Kento. Fujigaya Taisuke is my proper name. I'm not lying."
"B-but..." Kento tried to hug Taisuke again. "Why...I miss you, Taisuke! I want you to come back. Tono, Tono, he remembered the anklet!" The lie had slipped out as Kento felt more and more desperate. "Please..."
He swore there was a flicker of some emotion in Taisuke's eyes when he lied about the anklet. But it disappeared so quickly...it could've just been his imagination.
"I am not the one you used to know, Kento. I have changed. I no longer have any business with Takizawa-dono."
"T-Taki..." Kento's eyes widened once again. "Why..."
Taisuke smiled and laughed lightly. "You really should believe me when I say I've changed, Kento." He pressed a kiss on Kento's forehead. "I won't be going back."
Kento's grip on Taisuke loosened. "You...you didn't miss me?"
Taisuke shook his head. "I never said that. I missed you too, but I won't change my mind."
Before Kento could say anything else, they were interrupted by a woman, who came down the hallway they were standing in. "Fujigaya-kun, I finally found you...! What are you doing here in these parts of the manor? You know it's the guests- oh, there's someone with you. Excuse my rudeness. Anyways...here, have this. We're sorting through the left-overs of the banquet. And well, we know you like these. So please enjoy them." She had handed the other a couple of sweets. Kento recognized them. Taisuke had loved those back at the castle as well. But the thing that had struck him more just then, had been what the woman had called the other.
Fujigaya.
Kento's arms fell to his side and slowly, he slid down on his knees. Taisuke, he really had thrown away everything at the castle, including his feelings towards Tono. What had he been doing then, taking Taisuke's place and remaining by Tono's side? Had all of that been useless?
He vaguely recognized Taisuke's voice thanking the woman and soon, Taisuke crouched down in front of him, staring into Kento's eyes. "Don't be like this please, Kento... Life here, it's a lot more suitable for me."
"But..." How could he put it into words? Kento wanted to ask the other so many things. Wanted to ask how Taisuke was able to just throw away...throw away his past like that...
Taisuke was stroking Kento's hair again. "You were really pretty during the dance tonight. It's nice to know that you're doing well."
Kento shook his head. "No, no...!" He threw his arms around Taisuke again. "I'm not well! I just want you beside me again, Taisuke! I'm only dancing because I believe Taisuke will come back. We've never danced together before for Tono, right? I want to dance with Taisuke again, just for Tono..."
A sigh was heard. Taisuke placed a hand on Kento's shoulder, but didn't push him away. "Kento. I'm not leaving here," he said firmly. "If you really want to be with me, are you willing to leave everything then? Are you willing to leave Takizawa-dono's side?"
Leave...?
"I...I can't...! That would be...that would be treason!" Kento squeaked.
Taisuke smiled softly. "Really? Sometimes though, Kento, living for yourself is a lot more important than caring about things like loyalty and treason. I won't force you to leave Takizawa-dono." He kissed Kento on the lips lightly. "If you ever think about leaving one day though, you're always welcome here. Take care of yourself, alright, Kento?" He stood up, pulling Kento along with him. "And that anklet, I think it'd be better if you throw it away." He gave Kento another kiss before turning around and walked away.
This was what he had wished for for so long but why did it feel so wrong? So empty? Taisuke's words and actions hurt so much. Kento didn't know how much of it he could stand.
He wasn't sure how long he stood out there, trying to make his heart hurt a little less, but he could feel himself getting colder and colder.
"Kento? What are you doing out here?"
Turning around slowly, Kento found Nikaido hurrying towards him.
"Aren't you cold? You really should go back to your room." Nikaido reached out for a moment but hesitated before pulling his hand back.
For some reason, Kento felt something within him snap and he raised his hand, slapping Nikaido across the cheek. "It's all your fault! I told you to give Taisuke back to me! Why didn't you!? Now, now, Taisuke will never come back!"
A tear fell down Kento's cheek. Before Nikaido could react, he ran away.
Suddenly, everything had changed, and Kento just didn't know what to believe anymore.
Author's Notes: ...pffft, I seem to like cheesy titles lately. And they're all kind of long too. Maybe it's this universe's fault. Since things were a bit vague for both of us, Kira and I decided to write this installment round-robin style! That, and it's faster for us, you know, writing in parts, and combining ideas instead of writing everything on your own. Hopefully, the change in styles isn't really sharp and won't distract you people from reading.
For now we're still writing in chronological order, but sooner or later, we'll be moving out of that. Just so you know. //nods//
Poor Nika. //pets him// He got slapped.
Um, what else?
Comments are love and appreciated~
(Like, really. =| It'd be nice to know if people are enjoying this universe or not. Even if it's just a short comment...it'd make us really happy!)