mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: When the Bloody Moon Rises (chapter 12)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Characters: Akira, Keisuke, Emma, Gwen, Shiki, Nano
Status: Completed (12 Chapters)
Rating: +18 (Smut, suggestive themes, violence)
Summary:

One day, an excellent reputation, vampire hunter Akira is falsely accused of murdering an innocent person. Fortunately, the church offers him to prove his innocence by defeating the evil vampire lord Il Re.
And thus, the silver-haired hunter sets on the new journey. Will he be able to do it?
Read and find out~
AO3 Link

Click here to read

After a couple more rounds, the fearsome vampire lord catches a break.

Who knew that his prized possession had so much hidden stamina to keep him long under his foot? Even Shiki could tell that Akira was doing his best to hold back from going full force.

Of course, it hurts the red-eyed vampire’s pride that his partner doesn’t take him seriously. On the other hand, even if it’s hard to admit, he’s secretly happy to learn that someone as reserved as Akira can be possessive and prone to jealousy.

However, his train of thought is interrupted when his lover throws his arm over his shoulder, pressing his body against his back. The vampire rolls his eyes and murmurs. “What is it? Are you still not satisfied?”

The silver-haired man only nuzzles his neck and closes his eyes. “Can we stay like this for a while?”

When he opens his sleepy blue eyes, he lowers his gaze and adds in a sensible, shy tone. “Besides, you’ve been snuggling like this with no issues in your panther form. So, it shouldn’t make any difference to you now, I think.”

Such a humble request pleasantly surprises Shiki… but he starts to get up nonetheless. “Don’t be a fool. I just don’t want to lie in this mess like an animal.”

Unfortunately for him, his attempt is utterly crushed when a pair of arms wrap around him and his needy partner pulls him close.

“Please.” is all Akira says, nuzzling Shiki again and refusing to let go.

After a brief pause, he adds in a slightly concerned tone, “How else will I know that you’re here and not throwing your life away again? Stay for just a second. That’s all I ask…”

When the dark-haired male turns his head, Akira’s blue eyes seem to be begging him. For sure, the ruthless vampire feels brought to his knees just by that gaze and unable to disobey it.

‘When did you become so clingy?’ The vampire wonders. But for now, Shiki silently groans and replies like a prideful feline. “Hmph. As if I have anything better to do… But only this time. So, don’t get used to it, understood?”

Relieved, the silver-haired male says nothing, and instead he presses a soft kiss to Shiki’s neck before resting his head on his shoulder.

In the end, Shiki returns to his thoughts while being trapped in his lover’s embrace. ‘I swear… Be grateful that I’m in this state, thanks to you. Otherwise, you might be singing a different song.’

After several minutes, Shiki tries to escape from the tight hug and, fortunately for him, succeeds. After escaping, he puts on and fixes his black bathrobe, walking on wobbling legs towards the door.

However, his partner’s voice makes him turn his head. “Wait.”

Akira’s laying on his stomach now, looking slightly concerned, “Will you be alright on your own? Just give me a moment and I’ll help you to walk.”

As the vampire leans against the door and feels the remains of their fight for dominance running down his thigh, he closes his eyes and fires back like a proud cat. “There is no need. Doing something useless like that would be a waste of breath.”

For sure, the blue-eyed male’s stubborn behavior makes him facepalm. After Akira brushes his hair from his face, he sighs. “But you may trip and hurt yourself.”

The dark-haired man’s poker face breaks when his prized possession stands up and picks up a white shirt lying on the carpet, not caring whether it belongs to him or not.

At that moment, the fearsome vampire, Lord Il Re, is like a cornered feline that doesn’t want to be petted. Akira can practically see his lowered panther ears and long tail curled around him, the tip twitching.

But for now, Shiki responds in a mildly irritated tone while his unbothered partner, wearing only a buttoned shirt, approaches him. “You worry too much, idiot. Just wait for your turn. Understood?”

After the silver-haired male takes his hand and throws his arm over his shoulder, he stares at him with demanding blue eyes and whispers. “Please.”

A moment later, the red-eyed vampire turns his head away and admits his defeat. “Do as you wish…”

Akira lowers his shoulders and nods before wrapping his other arm around his partner’s waist and leaving the bedroom together.


Meanwhile, a demon maid with green hair cleans the corridor, dragging behind her a vacuum cleaner whose body is an enormous skull with a hose made of spinal bones.

But she immediately turns it off as soon as she notices Shiki leaning on his lover.

For sure, that view alone bewilders the long-time servant of this castle. After all, it’s her first time in her life-span seeing a ruthless vampire that has never shown any weakness, now so vulnerable and fragile like a rag doll.

Nevertheless, it doesn’t leave the green-haired demon indifferent towards her master. Thus, when she turns off the vacuum cleaner, she addresses this couple with big, concerned eyes while resting her clenched palm on her chest. “Master, are you alright? Are you sick?”

When Shiki turns his head, his exhaustion and annoyance is evident as he narrows his eyes, glaring at the maid for a moment before turning away.

“Did Akira-sama do something to you?” The green-haired demon presses.

At that moment, the red-eyed vampire feels pierced by another sharp knife and lowers his head.

The demon tilts her head to the side and gives a questioning look at him. “Did you hurt him, Akira-sama?”

Akira senses the rising dark, murderous aura surrounding his partner. However, he remains calm and makes a request of the servant: “Can you send someone to tidy the bedroom and prepare the bath for us?”

“Y-yes! Of course!” The green-hair demon bows before running on her way.

After the couple is finally alone, the silver-haired male checks on his partner. Despite Shiki quietly growling, and his eyelid twitching, Akira closes his eyes and sighs. “Let’s go. Besides, weren’t you the one who wanted to go to the bath so badly?”

Thus, he prompts the dark-haired male before continuing the walk down the long corridor.


Some time has passed. Somewhere in the study room, deep in the dark Lord’s Il Re’s library, Akira comfortably rests in the armchair and reads another book from Shiki’s personal library while waiting for his return, unaware of the presence of the Evil One who tormented his lover for years.

Suddenly, the chill air and strangely familiar energy makes the silver-haired male freeze. As he lowers his book, he looks around, but there is no one aside from him, and that brief aura is nothing like Shiki’s.

After he closes his eyes and lowers his shoulders, Akira sighs. “Just be careful, you stupid vampire. I won’t forgive you if you die on me.”


Meanwhile, at the castle’s entrance, a loud banging on the wooden gate echoes through the room, awakening Il Re’s pet snake locked beneath.

The giant, black-scaled reptile lifts its head and opens its mouth, ferociously hissing at the intruders disturbing the peace.

“Silence!” his master says, immediately calming the snake.

The enormous snake lowers its body and flicks its split tongue while patiently waiting for its owner’s command.

Shiki lowers his sheathed blade and closes his crimson eyes, an arrogant smile crossing his lips. “… Not now. Why don’t I greet the guests first?”

When he lifts his head and opens his eyes, he orders the demon servants without looking back. “Take Akira to the underground caverns and make sure he doesn’t leave until I say so. Unlock Slyther’s room as well.”

The group of maids nods, some rushing to the library and a couple of them to the chained door that seals his pet.

‘Hmph. It’s been a while since I had so many human beings coming to my castle.’ The vampire ponders as he approaches the entrance gate with noble elegance.

However, when he opens the door, the smug look on his face fades away upon seeing a familiar couple: a red haired nun and a priest. Not only that, it seems they arrived not alone but brought an enormous group of men wearing white sacred hooded cloaks as well.

As the wind ruffles Emma’s sleeve like a waving flag, she politely greets the vampire lord. “Good evening. Ah, and what an honor we have earned to be greeted by Count Il Re himself.”

Wasting no time, the red-eyed vampire looks for a specific item in his pocket and upon finding it, tosses it at the redhead servant of God.

Fortunately, Emma’s reaction is quick, and she catches the cross at her and keeps it close to her chest while listening to the vampire’s indifferent speech. “If you came to pick up the boy you sent to take me down, leave. He was a waste of my time.”

Just as Shiki is about to shut the gate, a foot steps in, and the dark-haired priest holds onto the door without removing his eyes from the nocturnal creature.

Gwen narrows his eyes grip firm on the door.

“Father, you can let it go.”

Emma’s voice makes him turn his head. A moment later, she addresses the fearsome Count Il Re: “Not so fast, vampire. There’s something that you can do for us. So why don’t we talk?”

As she smirks like a viper, she adds, “Or would you prefer to be finished here and now, along with your servants, while we inspect this den of unholy creatures?”

Not even a second passes before the men in robes raise the holy relics, aiming at Shiki.

The noble creature of the night indifferently stares and respires. Hmph. They think they can threaten me with cheap toys? What a bunch of pathetic worms.

“Either way is fine by us. So what do you say, Count Il Re?” Emma continues.

However, the noble creature of the night keeps his stoic stance while leaning against the door. “Leave. I have no interest in fighting weaklings.”

“Neither we sending the Inquisitors to take care of one pesky, arrogant vampire. But there is someone else in this castle that must be retrieved dead or alive at any cost.” The stubborn, red-haired nun fires back with confidence.

Suddenly, the ice-cold and powerful presence of one certain dark entity, sends the bad shivers and makes Shiki widen his eyes. While he grips his arm, he wonders. ‘Shit… and of all times for him to show up. However, I won’t let him steal what belongs to me.’

He grips his katana and with his thumb pushes the sheath down, revealing the naked blade. He doesn’t remove his crimson eyes from the army of his enemies.

But Emma doesn’t give in to her opponent’s intimidation, “You aren’t leaving us much choice. If the only way to get to him is through you, so be it.”

Shiki takes another step and leaves through the door, he turns his head and gives a firm command to his loyal pet. “Slyther, come. Tonight, you can feast as much as you want on these vermin!”

And with these words, the large black snake bursts from its room and outside.

But before he or his snake can advance, knives from above cut through the air and stab one of the cloaked men. Shiki glances at one of the windows.

“Master, please let us take care of them!” The reserved blue-haired maid with the blue eye patch shouts from a window, another set of knives glinting between her fingers.

More so, there are several other demon maids on the roof with their folded wings, long sharp nails, and lashing tails that are ready to shred anyone who threatens their precious master’s life. On top of that, an army of armored knights surrounds the holy men.

As soon as the battle breaks out, Shiki rushes into the castle, sensing the Evil One getting close to the Inner Quarters. ‘He won’t run away this time!’


Meanwhile, in the study room, the sound of a door slamming in the distance makes the silver-haired male lift his head.

“Young Master, there is no time to waste! You must follow me!” the green-haired demon swiftly flies across the library without hiding her genuine concern.

Placing the book on the table, Akira stands and tilts his head to the side. “What happened?”

The concerned demon maid only folds her wings and presses her intertwined fingers against her chest with her lowered long pointy ears and big pleading eyes. “There is no time to explain. We have to hurry before it’s too late, Young Master!”

“Where is Shiki? Did something happen to him?” The silver-haired male asks.

The green-haired demon lowers her darkened face and immediately takes his hand. “Please listen to me. Master is fighting hard to protect you and everyone in the castle and told me to take you somewhere safe. I’ll drag you by force if needed.”

“Take me to him.” Akira orders shortly.

After a brief pause, he adds in a confident tone, “Your master may take more than he can handle and I cannot allow him to die. Or are you okay with whoever overthrows him and becomes your new master?”

“Akira-sama...” The demon maid only stares in disbelief. When she releases his hand, she softens her gaze. “As we speak, Master should be getting closer to the garden in the inner quarters.”

Akira closes his eyes and takes a deep breath. “Thank you.”

Wasting no time, he heads towards the exit of the library.

Meanwhile, the green-haired demon maid bows and bids farewell. “Please be careful, Young Master.”

‘... Because Master needs you more than ever.’ she thinks to herself while watching the blue-eyed male slowly disappear from her sight.


After several minutes, Akira reaches his destination. However, he is shocked upon noticing the distorted scenery of once flourishing flora, plant monsters, and the ruined wings of the golden goddess statue on the top of the center fountain. It was as if a powerful beast had been looking for something. Even the crimson full moon in the sky only observes and illuminates this scene for the final act.

A few moments later, after shaking his head and fixing his hair, he steps deeper into the ruined garden. Step by step, until he gets close to the enormous fountain, and sees an unknown male figure.

He was sure he had never seen this man before in his life, but Akira had a strange feeling that they had met before, if not in this world, then in another one and another time.

The blonde man might be another vampire hunter, but that doesn’t scare Akira. He instinctively approaches the mysterious stranger, as if is drawn to him by invisible strings.

However, the cracked tiny stone under Akira’s foot and the man immediately turning back alert him and make him step back.

Meanwhile, the stranger with pale skin silently stares at him with his glowing purple eyes and a calm, robotic look.

“Who are you?” The blue-eyed male asks carefully.

The man doesn’t say a word, and it’s impossible to read his face.

Undeterred, Akira continues his interrogation, “Answer me. Is this your work?”

The light-haired man only turns his head and lowers his gaze.

After slowly blinking, he returns his gaze to Akira, moving closer to him.

Just as he lifts his extended arm towards the blue-eyed male, the click of a blade makes them both look back.

The bloody, red moonlight illuminates the dark vampire lord and his trustworthy katana blade pointed at his enemy.

When Shiki bares his fangs and wrinkles his nose, he growls like a feral beast while his red eyes glow with the hellish fury. “You won’t escape this time, you bastard!”

Akira could swear he had never seen such pure rage in his partner. His cold, murderous energy alone could kill an ordinary person on sight.

Meanwhile, the purple-eyed male keeps his stoic look and lowers his arm.

When he presses it close to his chest pocket, he narrows his indifferent gaze and comments in a monotonic voice. “You are still alive?”

After closing his eyes, he turns his head towards the silver-haired male and comments. “You… You are also tainted by the same black color as him.”

For sure, his long-time arch-nemesis ignorance continues boiling Shiki’s primal hatred for the nocturnal creature that once stripped his pride. Even the scar on his chest aches by his sight alone.

When he prepares to launch himself at the light-haired male with the heavy slash, something small and sharp rapidly flies past him.

As the crimson liquid runs down the noble vampire’s cheek, he hisses through his bitten teeth and freezes into the same spot.

Suddenly, Akira’s arms drop, and he calls his partner’s name. “Shiki!”

Before he steps in, the same sharp item bounces off the wall and flies near him. But it doesn’t freeze him in the same spot as the stern male voice announcing. “Halt!”

Apparently, that voice belongs to the preserved dark-haired priest.

As he catches the ricochet gem in his gloved palm, the red-haired nun steps forward and holds the bullwhip close to her chest. “You can no longer run away from us. Give up now.”

Seeing two familiar faces from the past shocks the silver-haired male. All he can do is silently say. “You two…”

“Hand over to us Premier Nicole and Null Nicole and we’ll make sure the Ordinary will take care of them. Your death will be also instant, if you cooperate with us, vampire.” Gwen addresses the noble ruler of the night and ready to unleash his weapon at any moment.

“Hmph. There is no need of him, Father.” The redhead curves a smile like a viper.

As she points the whip at Akira, she narrows her gaze and explains. “Haven’t you sensed yet? He is no longer human. Besides, he already served his purpose of luring Nicole. That’s why I can finally put them down before the church gets them.”

Meanwhile, Shiki lowers his sword and studies this couple that he temporally forgets about his arch-nemesis, who is apathetic to what is happening.

Gwen’s poker face finally cracks, and he addresses his mission partner. “Emma!… That’s not what we agreed! Are you disobeying the given orders? Are you aware of what happens to you if they discover you betray them?”

As something painful stuck in his throat, he continues. “I knew something was off about you before this mission started… I should have reported about you to the Ordinary before it was too late.”

Suddenly, his words are interrupted by the crack of a whip, and he yells in pain. “Gaah!…”

After Emma unleashes another heavy strike, she kicks him until his body hits the ground.

When the redhead nun bites her lip, she closes her eyes and confesses. “As if I ever cared about it! These church fools can do whatever they want, but I won’t let anyone stand in my way. Not until I put these two out of their misery caused by these heartless religious freaks!”

“That’s too bad that you betrayed me as well. Good bye...” Emma says with a bitter smile, tightening her whip around Gwen’s neck until he finally gasps his last breath.

Loosening her trusted weapon and lowering it, she faced the purple-eyed male, approaching him with an unusually concerned tone. “I’m only doing this to shield you from those awful men who twisted you into a monster.”

Upon remembering their last encounter, she feels a phantom pain and grasps the hollow sleeve of her tunic. “That’s why, for your own sake, I have to end this here, Nano.”

Just when she gets close to the light-haired blond and lowers her shoulders…

Suddenly, she widens her eyes and groans as this man’s hand pierces her chest like a sharp blade.

After Nano withdraws his smeared with bright red blood elbow, he indifferently stares at the redhead nun falling on her knees like a rag doll with cut strings.

Emma looks at him with her pitiful big eyes while her trembling lips whisper a few mute words before collapsing and sinking into the world of never-ending darkness.

After an intense pause, Shiki breaks the deadly silence and fixes his hair. “Now, it’s your turn.”

With these words, he charges at his opponent, who only cracks a mocking smile.

However, the dark-haired male becomes alerted by slashing a thin air and his arch-nemesis standing behind him.

Fortunately for him, he dodges the fatal claw strike.

Calmly, Nano observes the dark-haired swordsman, who nervously gulps and points his trusty weapon at him.

“You have fangs and claws, but you still cannot use them. Creatures like you don’t survive long in nature. You are still -” The blonde comments.

His words are immediately cut off by Shiki’s aimed stabbing strike.

However, his attack is evaded.

A moment later, the purple-eyed male sends a powerful punch into his guts, making him gasp and twist his face in agony.

Meanwhile, Akira watches as the blonde grabs Shiki by the throat and lifts him as if he was a small animal captured by an apex predator.

Even so, his body starts moving on its own, and he sneaks to pick up his partner’s dropped weapon.

The red-eyed vampire narrows his gaze and hisses as the grip around his neck tightens, accompanied by a faint cracking noise.

Even if he understands his demise is near, he refuses to let this sadistic creature enjoy his suffering or struggle in vain.

Without removing his eyes from the vampire, Nano extends his sharp nails and aims at his target’s belly.

Lastly, he announces in the same monotonic, lifeless voice. “Do not fear. I’ll set you free from this pointless existence. You won’t even notice it, vampire.”

The very little that he knows, the real threat to him is closer than he thinks.

Without Nano suspecting him, the silver-haired male with flaring blue eyes right behind him with his shining blade reflecting the crimson moonlight.

One sudden move and Shiki’s katana penetrates his chest, making him drop the original owner of it.

Even so, Nano lowers his gaze and indifferently stares at how his brown coat soaks with a dark liquid and the tip of the bloody blade.

“Ah...” the light blond sighs as if it is a small inconvenience to him.

After Akira pulls out the katana, he tilts his head and declares with a strong determination. “I have no idea who you are or what you need from me. However, I will not care if you are a demon, human, or the god himself. Dare to touch this man, and I’ll send you to the netherworld.”

Nano slowly turns towards the silver-haired male and takes a step closer to him while his purple eyes start glowing in various spectrum colors.

In the meantime, Shiki picks up his other sword and addresses his long-time enemy. “It’s not over yet. So, face me, you coward!”

However, the purple-eyed male ignores him yet again and focuses on Akira.

Surely, it annoys the dark-haired swordsman, and he lowers his darkened face.

As the murderous aura grows stronger with each second that makes Akira step back, Shiki addresses his partner while containing his primal rage. “Stay back and do not interface. It’s between him and me.”

When he lowers his katana, he rushes at his opponent and unleashes the heavy upward slash.

At that moment, Akira observes this as if time had frozen around them and Nano facing Shiki and accepting his fate.

Hell, he can swear that he could hear Nano whispering while putting on a victorious smile. “I won...”

Slash! The blond man’s head flies into the sky and as the bloody fountain splashes from his neck, his body harshly hits the ground.

A second later, Shiki falls to his knees and, as he deeply breathes, he lowers his head. “It’s over...”

The red-eyed swordsman covers his face with his palm and his chuckle growls into laughter. “It’s finally over!”

As he holds the corpse of the fallen enemy, he lifts him by his upper arms and brings him close to him.

Even Akira feels the bad shivers down his spine when the madness glows in these red glowing eyes with madness.

However, when Shiki opens his mouth and reveals his sharp fangs, he is about to sink them into the cut neck...

Suddenly, the silver-haired male acts upon the instincts.

After clenching his palms into fists, he approaches his partner and bends down.

As the harsh, loud slap echoes across this area, he pushes the dead body away from the reckless vampire and roughly grabs Shiki’s shoulders.

While the red-eyed vampire is dumbfounded and feels his pulsating, aching cheek, he keeps his bewildered look and respires.

When Akira lowers his head and bites his lower lip for a couple of moments, he lashes out at his partner. “Look at yourself! You already won. You finally set your score. That man is already dead and you are still not satisfied? Just why?... WHY ARE YOU STILL OBSESSED OVER HIM AND WANT TO KEEP HIM LIVE INSIDE YOU?!”

After shakily exhaling, he confesses. “I hate it. You should have killed me while you could, you fool... However, now, I won’t let get dragged together to whatever hell that man went... Even if that will take an eternity, I’ll make you forget that man and look only at me, no matter what it takes.”

These words spark the excitement in the noble creature’s of the night eyes and he curves a satisfied smile.

“How are you... Nevermind. Do what you wish...” He closes his eyes and replies.

When he rests his palms on his partner’s shoulders, he opens his eyes and adds. “Let’s go. The battle is over, but there is a lot of work left, thanks to these pesky invaders.”

After both stand up, Akira follows Shiki to wherever he might lead him.

Yet the dark-haired male is briefly surprised by his partner holding into his hand and gently tightening his grasp.

In the end, he turns his head and listens to Akira’s full-hearty confession. “I’m not letting you go. Not this time, not ever in the future.”

Not only these words but also these blue faithful eyes make even a ruthless vampire blush and turn his head before his partner used it as his chance to either tease him or point out the obvious.

Nevertheless, deep inside, he wouldn’t mind it. After all, Akira keeps proving that he is more than worthy of standing by his side for the rest of eternity.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: Voices from the Endless Night
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Summary:
[This story is set after the Cat and Mouse ending aka Shiki's ED2 (the PSP/PS2 version)]
As Shiki wanders the in the cold, Toshima's streets after an unsuccessful hunt for Nano, the line of dead bodies piques his feline curiosity. He understands that might be a trap. Nevertheless, he takes the risk with the hope that at the end of the chain of corpses, something far more interesting waiting for him...

AO3 Link


Click here to read

Another day, another target has been taken down. Besides, it’s nothing more than a dull part of one red-eyed swordsman that helps him to kill some time and finish another day. Thus, day by day - the same process all over again - rinse and repeat.

Only the desire to encounter and defeat That Man, who has shown him true madness, has driven Shiki to live and become strong. Or at least it was his only motivation and fuel for years until one silver-haired Igura player sparked something in him.

Of course, he could have simply killed that arrogant young man who brought the combat knife into the deadly streets of Toshima, in the same spot as another small fry or Rein user. However, these blue eyes... These ice-blue eyes alone told that he had nothing to lose, yet wouldn’t give up that easily. More importantly, his mind was sharp, and his eyes were clean, unlike these disgusting drug addicts. Perhaps letting him go off the hook that time wasn’t a mistake.

When they met again under the heavy rain when Akira was at his worst, the dark-haired male could have ended his misery and finished his little friend, who tried mocking him. Nevertheless, he put his katana away and let that disgusting Rein addict disappear in the rain.

However, just as he was stretching his hand and about to make the silver-haired male into his new pet, the harsh slapping made Shiki widen his crimson eyes and freeze in the same spot. Apparently, Akira dared not only to reject his offered hand but also stared at him with indignant blue eyes and silently growled at him.

The red-eyed swordsman could have unleashed his trustworthy blade and punished him. On the other hand, such an unexpected gesture thrilled him and made him more interested in this fighter. Yet again, he let him live but, this time, looking forward to their other encounter.

A few days have passed. Shiki wondered why he held back from finishing some amateur young man like Akira. Even how the blue-eyed male had survived that long without a single scratch in this dangerous place with no rules was a mystery to the ruthless Grim Reaper of Toshima.

‘That guy was a walking enigma…’ Shiki was telling himself after being unable to figure out why he could not let his katana stain with Akira’s blood. It was as if he sensed a hidden potential in that young man that must be triggered in the hard way.

Although, he knew - he’d return to him on his own as a dog to his owner’s side, even if he still didn’t realize that. It was only a matter of time. The red-eyed swordsman reminded himself while sitting on his Il Re throne, impatiently waiting.

Fortunately, that day, luck was on his side, and Akira returned to him but to face him as an aloof challenger. Even then, fate had played tricks on Shiki, and along with the war breaking out, he learned that the silver-haired male was connected to That Man to nullify his blood effect. Therefore, he had a reason to kill someone so closely related to that creature that humiliated him years ago.

When he was that close to staining his blade with Akira’s blood, he announced it was not worth his time and would chase after That Man. However, the very little that he knew that his question of whether he’ll get to That Man or Akira may get him, would fuel the silver-haired male’s desire to become strong and be his new life goal.

The days have passed and turned into weeks, which became months. However, Miss Fortune had brought them together again as the deadliest rivals, who clashed their swords as equals without holding back.

Despite that, a sword battle after a sword battle would always end the same way of fighting for their dominance in bed. At this point, it was impossible to decide whether the thrill of Death tapping their shoulder when they fought was the reason that kept bringing them back or instinctively yearning for each other’s body warmth and intimacy.

Eventually, that didn’t matter anymore to them. After their last encounter, Akira has proven that he might be worthy of staying by Shiki’s side and becoming his partner-in-crime or even someone more.


Back to the presence. Today Shiki’s search for Nano’s whereabouts had led to nowhere as That Man has disappeared into the dark night. Naturally, he gets frustrated and facepalms while grinding his teeth.

But for now, as he remembers about his partner, he sighs and fixes his hair.

‘Perhaps he still peacefully resting in the hotel room. Besides, even by the time I return, he would be still sleeping like a log.’ Shiki assumes as he imagines Akira curling under the blanket and slumbering like a dog after getting tired by waiting for his owner.

Unfortunately, his further thoughts are interrupted by the screech of the feral crackhead, who charges at Shiki with the heavy baseball bat strike.

Despite that, the red-eyed swordsman isn’t confused and closes his eyes. After gripping the handle of his trustworthy weapon, he moves his thumb to the sheath and reveals the shiny, naked blade.

One sudden movement, and as the crimson liquid spills like a fountain, that man screams out before harshly hitting the ground.

After wiping his katana with the tissue, Shiki tosses the stained tissue on the fresh corpse before continuing his way to his rented place.

An hour has passed. As the dark-haired male wanders in the empty streets, illuminated by the platinum moonlight, something catches his eye. Apparently, if it was only a single dead body, he may ignore it, as it’s nothing significant.

More importantly, there is another corpse just a few steps away from this one that is followed by a line of dead men. Of course, it would be much wiser to dismiss them and mind his own business. After all, who knows where it can lead if not making one join this grotesque chain?

On the other hand, what if it might be some sick joke of That Man? Or something that may entertain him? The dark-haired male decides and curves a satisfied smile.

After a while of following the line of slain men, Shiki reaches an old, abandoned shopping district, where one silver-haired male grasps his victim’s neck with his hand while the other holds his katana and points at its target.

At that moment, nothing seems to exist in this world for the blue-eyed assassin – only him and his prey, who barely show any signs of struggle. Even the mild breeze is afraid to disturb the eery silence.

Suddenly, Shiki’s footsteps alert Akira and make him turn his head toward the source of this noise. But for now, he stares at his partner with his wide blue eyes that reflect the moonlight like sapphires and whispers. “Shiki…”

The red-eyed swordsman approaches him gracefully, akin to a confident feline exploring unfamiliar grounds while concealing his arrogant expression. “Hmph. Just leave you alone for a moment and you cause trouble.”

It makes the silver-haired male only close his eyes and turn his head away. “It’s your fault.”

A second later, he stabs the wounded man and slits his guts. As his intestines loosely drop, Akira releases the target like a dirty rag. After cleaning his blade and letting it rest in the sheath, he closes his eyes and addresses him while hiding his irritation. “You went after Nano, didn’t you?”

When Shiki gets close to him, he wraps his arm around his waist and studies his partner’s face. After receiving no verbal response, Akira takes his silence, and these narrowed, bloody red eyes as his answer.

‘Of course, you did, you fool…’ The silver-haired male thinks while he places his gloved palms on Shiki’s chest and grasps his t-shirt.

Yet the dark-haired male doesn’t miss his chance to tease his prized possession. “What is it with you? Did you really get bored without me?”

When Akira lowers his gaze, he briefly explains. “I heard these men were planning to kill you. So, I had no choice but to take down one after one before they got you. That’s it.”

Such a response makes Shiki delightfully smile. After silently respiring, he gently holds Akira’s chin and tilts his head. Even if the preserved silver-haired swordsman keeps his poker face, his upset and worried blue eyes reveal his true colors.

When the dark-haired male narrows his gaze, he comments while keeping his serious face. “You’re terrible at lying or hiding anything. So, there must be something more to you, lining these bodies like that.”

After he cracks a mocking smile, he adds. “As if you wanted me to follow you.”

That’s it! It is the last drop of Akira’s patience. Finally, he holds onto Shiki’s long leather coat and pushes him against the nearest wall.

When he corners his partner, he backfires without holding back his frustration. “You still don’t get it… Go and figure out by yourself!”

Meanwhile, Shiki doesn’t remove his eyes from his partner and momentarily allows him to do as he pleases. Even when the silver-haired male grabs his t-shirt and brings him closely, he is unbothered.

After shakily exhaling and nervously swallowing the saliva, Akira places his palms on Shiki’s cheeks. “You may have a bullet stuck in your head without noticing and yet you are still overly obsessed over some man of your past. I hate it...”

Lastly, after a brief pause, he whispers. “I’ll make you look only at me, Shiki.”

Just when Shiki is about to escape from his partner, he immediately widens his eyes at how Akira grips his wrists and presses them against the concrete wall. Nevertheless, he keeps his smug feline-like look and closes his eyes. “Hmph. Aren’t you allowing yourself a bit too much?”

Instead of giving in to his provocation, the silver-haired male only parts his legs with his lifted knee while observing him. “Think as you wish...”

Even if his posture remains stoic, these blue, unsatisfied eyes alone warned that he won’t let this dark-haired male go. But for now, Akira closes his eyes and tiptoes enough before gently pressing his lips against his partner’s.

At first, such an innocent kiss doesn’t amaze the red-eyed swordsman, even if, a couple of seconds later, he can feel Akira’s tongue parting his lips. Even so, he invites the silver-haired male inside, knowing he’ll defeat him for the nth time.

As he expected during their battle for dominance, the blue-eyed swordsman already makes these adorable whims while catching for breath, and his cheeks dyed in the lovely tone of pink.

‘That’s was far too easy~’ Shiki ponders and chuckles like already claiming his victory by a mere deep kissing. Unfortunately for him, when he tries to shake off his hands, Akira grips him tighter.

‘Tsk. He is really stubborn… As if I let you get away with it. I’ll remember it.’ The dark-haired male wonders as his partner sits him down while continuing their passionate kiss.

After sitting on his knees and withdrawing his blushing face from his partner, Akira stares at him with ignited eyes and confesses while intertwining their fingers. “I’ll burn it into your memory and your body to whom you belong.”

From his partner’s shaky palms alone, Shiki can tell that he is only bold by using words. Besides, he could use it to his advantage and get his rematch by showing no mercy. On the other hand, giving Akira a false sense of being in charge might be far more interesting.

The red-eyed swordsman only turns his head away and lowers his gaze. “Just get down into the business before I changed my mind.”

These words thrill the silver-haired male. Nevertheless, he understands that he cannot lower his guard. After all, Shiki may have a trick or two under his sleeve and will strike when one least expects.

“You better not try anything funny…” Akira addresses him before lowering him onto his back. When he sits on top of him, he unbuckles and removes his belt. “Lift your hands.”

However, Shiki’s mocking look and unusual obedience make him slightly frown and briefly lower his head.

After fixing his hair, Akira adds. “Whatever you’re thinking, don’t. Not this time.”

Lastly, he leans closely and ties up the red-eyed swordsman’s pinned wrists. Meanwhile, Shiki only observes the silver-haired assassin fixing his back and removing his long leather gloves.

Even when his partner places and spreads his palm under his t-shirt, the dark-haired male doesn’t remove his eyes from him and makes an adorable sigh.

After exposing Shiki’s abs and chest, Akira momentarily silently admires his well-built body before lowering his curious eyes to his belt and his lower regions.

Despite realizing where this is going and how he may not escape from being held by the silver-haired male, Shiki refuses to resist. After turning his head away, he carefully closes his eyes. Besides, it was only a matter of time before Akira would want to top him.

To think of... It is the second time in the red-eyed swordsman’s life that he is being embraced while being surrounded by a sea of dead bodies. The only difference is that instead of the hellish battlefield and never-ending flame and gunshots, tonight is a serene night accompanied by the stars and the platinum full moon.

More so, instead of being trapped under the awakened sadistic beast’s claw and unable to end his own life because he was forced to endure that suffering and humiliation by the same man who was the embodiment of madness and destruction, he now voluntarily surrenders to the nullifier of his enemy.

No matter how difficult it was to swallow his pride to admit it, what if all this time he was slowly getting attached to this dearly prized possession and accepting him but not the other way around as he thought? What if, tonight, Akira is the one who is sparing him and detoxifying him? Who knows?…

In the end, all Shiki can do is make lewd noises and cries that don’t feel as if they belong to him, while his partner keeps calling his name in such a sensual way as trying to reach out to him and roughly penetrating him.


After a while, a couple of swordsmen sit closely while the moonlight shines on them. But for now, Akira leans close and rests his head on Shiki’s shoulder without disturbing this peaceful moment.

Even if earlier, the dark-haired male refused his help to get clean or get dressed like a proud feline and did it by himself, Akira was amazed that he didn’t point his blade at him or slap him.

Suddenly, he makes a small whimper as someone places his palm on his head. A second later, the blue-eyed swordsman blissfully narrows his gaze and allows his partner to stroke his hair. When he grasps the large silver cross on Shiki’s chest and doesn’t let go, he hopes from the bottom of his heart that this reckless man will stay by his side for a bit longer.

Meanwhile, the dark-haired male only closes his eyes and sighs at his partner’s needy side. In the end, Shiki pulls Akira into a tight hug and addresses him in a purring-like voice. “What am I going to do with you? Well, it cannot be helped…”

Instead of saying anything, the silver-haired male only silently nods and rubs his cheek against his shoulder.


Notes:

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First of all, I want to thank one twitter artist @AndreaArtistic for making this Cat and Mouse ending ShikiAki fanart and allowing to use this commissioned work as a cover for this story!💖
That's why, I recommend everyone to go and follow this artist: https://twitter.com/AndreaArtistic
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
mina_chan95: (Default)
Title: The Little Flame that Stood the Storm
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Summary:
Tonight, the sudden sound of thunder and something heavy collapsing at Shiki's apartment alerts Akira. Soon, she notices Shiki at her weakest and most vulnerable state. Thus, the silver-haired woman decides to finally payback for what she has experienced...
AO3 Link


Click here to read

It’s been two weeks since Akira was brought into the ruthless killer’s lair. However, it seems the silver-haired woman is already used to living here.

Besides, aside from having a safe shelter from the rain and wind, Akira recently receives new clothes from the red-eyed swordsman. Of course, if one could call more or less a fancier lingerie like that during their playtime... Although, it was a nice variety after wearing these oversized shirts all the time.

Nevertheless, a few days ago, Akira was surprised that Shiki hadn’t bullied her in her own way during a small incident. Apparently, after taking the shower and climbing out of the bath, she felt something warm running down her thigh.

When she lowered her gaze, she closed her eyes and sighed at the bright crimson blood, not knowing what to expect from Shiki. More so, that sensation of a small velociraptor tearing her insides and her thighs’ flesh with its sharp teeth made her hug her stomach and bend while slowly but deeply breathing.

Despite that unbearable pain, Akira forced herself to climb back into the bathtub, and after reaching the shower head, she turned it on and allowed the warm water to wash her down, hoping it would distract her.

Soon enough, she lifted her head upon the opened door. A moment later, she only gave an exhausted look to her partner, who wasn’t so glad to stumble across the bloody scene.

More importantly, judging from the dark-haired woman approaching her with a mildly irritated face, Akira understood it may not end.

On the other hand, it was not something that she could control. Or so the silver-haired woman wondered while turning her head away and imagining Shiki’s judgmental red eyes looking at her.

Meanwhile, the red-eyed swordsman silently studied her partner with her poker face on.

“Hmph. So, this is how it is... Clean yourself before I return.” Shiki briefly ordered her before turning her back and taking her leave.

After several minutes, Akira finished drying herself, and her partner returned without empty hands.

Surely, she hadn’t expected to see her usual white shirt, a couple of other items like a pair of underwear, and something wrapped in a flat, square package.

After closing her red eyes, Shiki handled them to her prized possession. “Put them on.”

For sure, the silver-haired woman only looked at her with her confused, big blue eyes. Yet she didn’t give into confusion and did what Shiki asked her.

Even when they returned to the fearsome swordsman’s bedroom, Akira understood she had to make it up to Shiki. After all, it was a natural part of her routine to end their day and have private time together.

However, when the blue-eyed woman threw her arms around Shiki’s shoulders and pressed her body against hers, she widened her eyes at how this woman cushioned her tilted chin and smirked like a feline. “Does a puppy want to play? However, you need to endure for a few more days until it’s gone. Besides, I’m not interested in training a mindless sex slave that only leaves a mess after her.”

These words genially bewildered Akira, who was only pushed on the bed and tucked under the sheets. In the end, after the dark-haired woman removed her black leather pants, she joined her adored pet and hugged her from behind while taking most of the space in bed. A moment later, she rested her head on Akira’s shoulder.

For sure, that sensation of Shiki’s hair tickling her neck made her silently sigh. More so, it eventually helped her cramps in her lower half to calm down.

Thus, even during these recent days, the silver-haired woman was secretly delighted that Shiki stayed in her apartment much longer and only left to get food, water, and some other necessities for her, like a mother cat bringing something to her baby cub.


But for now, Akira only stares through the window and waits for her partner to return.

Unfortunately, aside from the never-ending heavy rain outside, there are no signs of Shiki coming back soon, even if she has promised that she won’t take long.

‘What if something bad happened on her way? Just come back safely, you fool...’ the silver-haired woman wonders while resting her palm on the window and shakily closes her eyes.

However, even after waiting for a couple of hours and with the storm growing stronger, Akira remains alone. Despite that, she refuses to rest and continues protecting her master’s fortress.

Suddenly, the thunder strike alerts her, but not as much as hearing something heavy dropping near the entrance door.

“Shiki!” Akira panics before rushing toward that sound.

Soon enough, she nearly drops to her knees when she sees one familiar swordsman soaked ‘til the last straw and shakily leaning on her trustworthy weapon to get up while deeply breathing. A second later, a black trash bag catches her eye.

No matter what is inside of it, it doesn’t concern Akira. After all, there are more important things at the moment. Thus, after approaching the dark-haired woman, she bends down and places her hands under her armpits.

“Leave. I can get up on my own.” Shiki protests.

“When you barely can move? Stand up and I’ll leave.” Akira immediately backfires and removes her hands from her partner.

Just as Shiki attempts to get up, her sword slips under her. Yet Akira’s reaction is quicker and catches the dark-haired woman in her tight embrace.

When she places her palm on her partner’s forehead, she widens her eyes and gasps at how it is burning hot compared to her cold skin.

Instead of wasting any time, Akira starts dragging Shiki toward her bedroom. However, it’s easier to say than have it done because the once ruthless Grim Reaper of Toshima is now nothing more than a cat refusing to move from the same spot.

Of course, she would appreciate Shiki putting minimal effort into coming into the bedroom. Besides, she is not so lightweight fellow. On the other hand, if she wasn’t sick, she would probably let this swordsman lie on the ground until she had enough. Or so the silver-haired woman ponders and sighs.

Meanwhile, Shiki lifts her trembling gaze and makes a smug look, despite feeling every bone in her body is aching and may break. After all, there is nothing more entertaining than her dear pet looking after her owner during her last moments while making such a serious face. But for now, she closes her crimson eyes while feverishly respiring and groaning.


After laying Shiki on the bed, Akira briefly wonders where she should start. That’s right, it might be one thing to undress one if they wore dry clothes and another one when they are as soaked and sticky as a second skin.

After she climbs on the bed, she starts with her partner’s upper clothes.

Even such a simple task of removing shoes requires the silver-haired woman to hold Shiki’s leg with her thighs while pulling it with her hands. Nevertheless, a leg after a leg, and she takes care of it.

For now, she moves to the red-eyed swordsman’s zipper of her leather pants and belt. Fortunately, Shiki lifts her bottom and remains silent without making unnecessary comments. Despite that, Akira feels the heat rushing to her cheeks.

It’s not her first time seeing Shiki naked, but even in a moment like this, she cannot help herself but be shy by undressing a ruthless killer whose life is at her will. More so, even if, now, these red as bloody gem eyes are in pain, for the silver-haired woman, they are so captivating and making her heart skip a beat.

When she nervously swallows the saliva and inhales, she holds onto Shiki’s dark leather coat without removing her blue eyes from her. “It would be helpful if you could sit.”

Meanwhile, the dark-haired woman replies with her usual arrogance. “When did you learn to behave so boldly?”

“And you still act like this even when you’re about to die? … Don’t make me to use your katana, you idiot.” Akira immediately backfires while keeping her serious look.

Instead of arguing with her prized possession, Shiki only turns her head away while leaning on her elbows and keeping her proud face. “Hmph. Are you that badly worried about your owner, puppy?”

As Akira lowers her coat from her shoulders, she closes her eyes and responds. “Think as you wish…”

Thus, upon grasping the hem of her turtle-neck t-shirt, the silver-haired woman lifts it and reveals her partner’s well-built body, along with her battle scars and the soaked medical bondage covering her large bust.

“You’re cold...” Akira softens her gaze while brushing her palm against Shiki’s wet skin before continuing her hard work of peeling this woman out of her outfit.

Meanwhile, Shiki returns her gaze and studies how, despite Akira being nervous while undressing her, she refuses to give up. Surely, such an effort only continues to amaze this woman, who has seen everything.

When the silver-haired woman carefully pushes Shiki onto the bed, she takes her partner’s gloved hand into hers and brings her lips close to her fingertips. Suddenly, she widens her eyes as the red-eyed swordsman tries to brush it off.

Unfortunately for her, Akira’s grasp is tighter, and no matter how she refuses to admit her defeat, she narrows her gaze. “I can handle it on my own.”

The silver-haired woman remains silent and pulls long leather gloves. Lastly, she tosses them on the ground along the resting pile of clothes and returns her gaze to her lover’s chest. “I cannot leave you like this. So, I’ll end this quickly.”

Even if Shiki is aware of what Akira has planned for her, she only closes her eyes and accepts her demise while her chest bloats. After all, perhaps it’s the divine retribution for showing her weak side and having high hopes that she can tame this stray dog that sparkled something in her. More importantly, in the end, her adored pet turned out to be a wild canine that would bite into the same hand that would feed her.

But for now, when she opens her tired eyes, her gaze follows her prized possession as she leaves her side and searches for a specific item in the drawer.

Even when Akira approaches her while carrying her combat knife, Shiki keeps her poker face. Thus, when her prized possession sits on top of her and points the tip of her blade at her chest, the dark-haired woman cracks a smile and slowly closes her eyes while waiting for the finishing strike.

Slash! And the blue-eyed fighter’s combat knife tears the layers of medical bandage at once. A second later, with the sound of a fallen blade and her breasts released from the tight clothing, Shiki opens her eyes wide-open and notices Akira with her lowered shoulders staring at her and explaining in a calm tone. “It would have taken ages to unwrap it. So, there…”

When her beloved pet pulls out the remains of the medical bandage under her and climbs off her, she pulls the blanket under her and covers her. “You better not try anything stupid or else…”

And with these words, the silver-haired woman gets up and walks toward the closet. However, no matter how thoroughly she seeks for something, she only exhales and slams the closet doors before rushing to the bathroom.

A few minutes of the ruckus and the sounds of the various things flying around in the bathroom have passed. Once again, the blue-eyed woman storms out without hiding her frustration.

Yet something small squeezed and dripping in her hand while getting close to her catches Shiki’s eye.

When Akira is close enough to the weakened swordsman, she brushes her wet hair from her face and places a cold, wet small towel on her forehead. “It’s not much, but please endure it for a bit longer.”

For sure, even seeing how the once fearsome woman is now fighting for her life clenches her heart and makes her tighten her lips and shortly whimper.

Nevertheless, Akira immediately turns her back and leaves the bedroom.

Thus, after reaching the corridor, Akira looks down and spots the same black trash bag that Shiki dropped and her katana earlier.

She wouldn’t bring anything useless or nasty from the Toshima’s streets, right? At least, hopefully, she didn’t. Or so Akira thinks to herself while squatting and tearing this bag.

To her surprise, seeing her fixed and neatly folded former clothes leaves her dumbfounded. “Shiki, you...”

When she picks them up, she warmly hugs them and lowers her head. “As if you knew that something bad may happen to you… You stupid, reckless fool.”

A couple of moments later, she lifts her head and unbuttons her white shirt before changing into what her partner has brought for her. After a few minutes, when she zips her jacket and puts on the hood with fur edges, she picks Shiki’s trustworthy weapon and leaves her apartment.


Some time has passed. After the silver-haired woman returns to the lair of the fearsome killer, she opens her jacket, revealing the goods she brought, and lowers her shoulders.

“Good. So, hopefully, you haven’t run away while I was gone.” Akira sighs while checking on the water bottle and the box of paracetamol before heading to the bedroom.

Fortunately, to her relief, the dark-haired woman is taking a nap while fighting back against the fever.

But for now, when Akira removes her jacket and approaches her, she places her hand on the small towel resting on her forehead and softens her gaze.

After she removes the warm towel, she gently strokes her forehead and cheeks. “Just a little bit and you should get well…”

Instead of receiving the wanted answers, Akira only closes her eyes and sighs at Shiki’s soft groaning and her unusual whimpers during her sleep. “Just hang in there.”

After a couple of minutes, the blue-eyed woman soaks the small towel in cold water and carefully sits her partner, who is as fragile as a doll, in her hands. Lastly, she leans closer to her and taps her cheek. “Hey, wake up.”

Finally, Shiki shakily opens her sleepy crimson eyes and cracks a tired smile. “What is it with you and that look on your face?”

“Take it.” The silver-haired woman gives her a couple of pills and a bottle of water while supporting her back with her arm.

Even the most basic task, like holding things, is challenging for the most powerful woman in Toshima, and a few moments later, her shaky hand drops it instantly.

For now, Shiki lowers her head and grinds her teeth while grasping the blanket. A moment later, she addresses her adored pet while avoiding facing her in her weak voice. “Leave. You are free to go. So, why are you still there?”

However, Akira only picks up the dark-haired woman’s dropped items, and when she takes the paracetamol and a good gulp of the water, she keeps it in her mouth. After she places her other hand behind her partner’s head, she closes her eyes and brings her face close to Shiki’s. When she presses her lips against hers, the silver-haired woman’s tongue tries to get inside her.

For sure, it shocks Shiki and makes her silently whimper, but she has no choice but to invite Akira. Even when she opens her mouth, and while water and medicine rush into her, she instinctively swallows it while a few drops run down through the corners of her lips.

More so, even if she wanted, she cannot remove her face when her prized possession buries her fingers into her hair and strokes them. Fortunately for her, as soon as she takes the final sip, Akira withdraws her face while keeping her lover in her caring embrace and catching for air.

After wiping the water from her and Shiki’s face, Akira fixates her blue eyes on her and replies. “As if I ever will. Even if throw me away, I’ll come back to you no matter what.”

Such an honest confession bewilders the red-eyed swordsman, and she whispers in a nearly mute voice while the heavy raindrops tap the window. “… Akira.”

Meanwhile, Akira gently allows her partner to rest on the bed and tucks her under the blanket. After she drains the wet, cold towel, she folds it and rests it on Shiki’s forehead. “Listen. You’re not allowed to leave. Not until you’ll get better. Then you can do what you wish with me.”

But for now, the silver-haired woman leaves the bedroom for a while to check if their apartment is locked and if they run out of necessities for tonight. Besides, tomorrow’s worries can wait. Thus, by then, Akira would hunt the same way as Shiki does every day.

An hour passes. Finally, the silver-haired woman can rest against the bed frame while hugging her partner’s trustworthy weapon if anyone dared disturb Shiki’s long rest.

More so, it cannot be helped that she would need to sacrifice her own comfort until her partner recovers. At least that’s a small price she has to pay. Or so Akira convinces herself while she sits on the floor and does her best not to fall asleep.

However, Shiki’s voice makes her lift her head immediately. “What are you doing down there? You’ll catch a cold down there.”

“Says who?” the blue-eyed woman backfires.

“Hmph. How adorable of my little puppy worrying about her owner~ However, I will let you jump on the bed and snuggle under the blanket. Undress and get into a bed.” The dark-haired woman responds while smirking like a cat.

Of course, it might be useless to argue with Shiki in her current state. Or so Akira decides as she sighs and starts removing her pants.

When she climbs on the bed without bothering her partner, she curls into her usual spot and throws a blanket over her.

Suddenly, she widens her eyes when a pair of arms wraps around her. Even when Shiki presses her body against her and rubs her cheek against her neck, Akira swears she can hear a thrilled noise from this large feline.

‘At least you seem to be recovering fast…’ The silver-haired woman ponders. In the end, she unconsciously places her palm on Shiki’s head and carefully strokes her hair.

However, it seems her partner doesn’t mind it. Or perhaps she is already slumbering. Who knows?… Either way, even the rain outside may not answer her questions. She doesn’t mind it. Besides, she secretly feels glad that this reckless woman is finally safe and under her care. Or so Akira decides when closing her eyes and calling it a day.


Notes:

First of all,
Thank you so much for such a lovely ShikiAki yuri💖
Yup, even now looking at it, it feels like a nice birthday present ( ͡ᵔ ͜ʖ ͡ᵔ )
So, dunno if you're reading this, but Thank You, Kuo for letting me use this fanart for this story and making it ^^
It just... too pretty and cute, and these two just mean a world to me❤
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: The Ace That Won a King
Fandom:
Togainu no Chi
Characters: Shiki, Akira
Pairing: Akira x Shiki
Summary:

Tonight, Shiki challenges his subordinate to the game of poker, in which the loser has to do everything the winner will say for 24 hours.
And so, who will be winner, and who will bear the harsh punishment?
Read and find out.

AO3 Link



Click here to read

It is another calm evening in the military tyrant’s mansion. Like any other day, relaxing with his loyal subordinate is an inseparable part of his routine and a perfect way to conclude another day.

However, Shiki has different plans for tonight.

That’s right, it’s been a while since they got intimate together. Besides, it should be enjoyable to lull Akira into a false sense of victory before defeating him.

‘I wonder what kind of face he’ll make tonight when he loses.’ The dark-haired male wonders while resting in the armchair in front of the fireplace and staring at the nearly empty glass of fine whiskey.

More so, the thoughts about turning his subordinate into an erotic creature that pleads with his body to be relieved from his sweet torment only make Shiki close his crimson eyes and quietly purr.

However, Akira’s question interrupts his further thoughts. “You look happy. Did good anything happen?”

Meanwhile, Shiki closes his eyes and brings his partner closer to him. “Does having my personal secretary by my side is not enough reason?”

These words make the silver-haired secretary’s heart skip a beat, and his blue eyes reflect the flickering firelight. “… Sir.”

Nevertheless, the dark-haired male places his palm on his partner’s cheek and adds. “However, there is something that only you can do for me.”

After a brief pause, he adds while keeping a straight face. “How about we play a game of poker? However, the loser will have to do whatever the winner will say.”

‘Hmph. It is clear as day that he has no chance against me. But it should be entertaining to watch him struggling.’ The commander ponders while smirking like a feline.

As Akira gives a questioning look, he raises his eyebrow. “Anything you say, sir?”

For sure, his secretary’s genial reaction amuses him, and he asks in a teasing tone. “Are you doubting me?”

Yet, Akira shakes his head and politely responds. “No. Not all.”

Lastly, Shiki gracefully gets up and turns his head before approaching the poker board. “Then grab the cards and prepare the table.”

“Yes.” The military secretary closes his eyes and nods.

Of course, he understands that he should have known that the commander is not different from a cat who, after taking a catnip, is more playful.

Therefore, he needs to keep Shiki occupied until he eventually falls asleep and then he can take him to bed to end the day. Or so the preserved military secretary reminds himself.


A few minutes have passed. After sitting down and placing a card deck on the table, Akira lifts his head after hearing Shiki’s voice. “What are you waiting for?”

The silver-haired secretary carefully listens to the smug commander, who rests his head on his interlocked fingers. “You are the dealer tonight.”

At first, he briefly watchfully gazes at him, but he sighs. “If this is what you wish, sir.”

Just before he places a few tokens on the table, he lifts his head upon feeling someone’s palm on his and pushes his hand away.

At that moment, Shiki only strokes his personal secretary’s hand without removing his thrilled eyes from him. “Put these away. We’re going to play until one of us will strip completely.”

Despite feeling the heat rushing to his cheeks by such newly added rules and how his hand is stroked, Akira only closes his eyes and briefly coughs.

Meanwhile, the commander delightfully studies his partner’s reaction and teasingly addresses him. “What is it with you? Or is there anything you want? Either way, be patient.”

Ignoring Shiki’s provocation, the silver-haired male shuffles the card deck and leaves two cards for his partner and himself while keeping a mildly irritated look on his face.

‘Now, let’s see how you have blessed me…’ The dark-haired wonders as he picks up his cards and keeps an amused look on his face.

Even if it’s difficult to tell what is hiding behind his secretary’s straight face, or he has a better hand than him, he decides to pressure him with aggressive play.

After glimpsing at his received a Queen-Ten Suited hand, the supreme ruler’s face changes to a straight one. ‘Not bad…’

But for now, Shiki taps on the table and impatiently waits for his partner’s turn.

Thus, Akira places his closed cards aside and deals the flop: King of Hearts, Eight of Diamonds, and Five of Hearts.

For sure, it pleasantly surprises the dark-haired male, and he fixes his hair while keeping his emotions in check. ‘Hmph. In this case, I’ll peel him off his uniform in no time.’

After the preserved secretary places the Nine of Clubs as a turn card, he studies his partner’s expressions with ice-cold blue eyes.

Lastly, Akira reveals the last card, which cracks Shiki’s poker face and makes him briefly turn his head to hide his visibly frustrated face.

Apparently, the Ace of Spades and Akira’s revealed Jack-Ten of Spades declare the winner of the heated battle.

Despite his utter defeat, Shiki fakes a smile and remarks while removing his tie and unbuttoning his white shirt. “It’s only the beginner’s luck. So, it’s early for you to celebrate.”

After exposing his well-built upper body, the dark-haired male tosses his removed piece of clothing at Akira, whose cheeks are dyed in a lovely tone of pink.

Meanwhile, Shiki adds in an irritated tone. “What are you staring at?”

For sure, it makes his subordinate fix his posture.

When Akira puts all the cards back into the deck and swiftly shuffles in his hands, he lifts his blue eyes upon hearing another demand. “You look so tense. So, why don’t you pour something for yourself and me?”

At first, the silver-haired male hesitates and suspiciously glares, but instead of arguing, he nods and stands up.

Before leaving the card deck on the table and heading towards the mini-bar, he glances at Shiki, who only gives him a teasing look.

Soon enough, after pouring the whiskey into a couple of one-shot glasses, he returns to the poker table.

Despite feeling the commander’s eyes on him while carrying the glasses, Akira ignores him.

Even if he is unsure about his underlying motives, he has no option but to abide by his rules. The secretary decides as he approaches his partner’s side and places a glass for him and for himself.

After picking the card deck into his hands and reshuffling it, he is about to deal cards, yet the commander interrupts him again.

While Shiki lifts his glass filled with the amber-colored liquid, he suggests. “Come on, take yours for a better luck.”

And so, after their glasses touch and both take a quick shot, another round begins.


Game after game, the layers of clothing are tossed away, and the ruthless ruler only managed to peel his secretary off his shirt. Even the poured whiskey failed to break Akira’s stone face.

More so, it doesn’t help that the only thing that he can read from Akira’s face is his demanding eyes, which fixate on him remaining in his bare underwear.

There is no greater humiliation and shame than underestimating his opponent and almost being defeated.

Either way, he may still have a chance of reclaiming his victory and making the silver-haired male pay a triple price for his arrogance. Or so the military tyrant convinces himself.

After showing his cards on the table, Shiki reveals his hand of the Pocket Eights. Unfortunately for him, Akira’s Ace-King-suited hand, which finally combines a Straight, shatters his last hope of having another round or rematch.

Nevertheless, he forces himself to swallow his pride and accept his bitter fate. When Shiki closes his eyes and presses his lips, he stands up and grasps into his underwear.

However, his subordinate’s voice stops him and makes him lift his head. “Please wait.”

Meanwhile, the commander opens his red eyes, which follow Akira, who gets up and approaches him. “You don’t have to do it if you don’t want it.”

After the silver-haired male picks up the shirt, he wraps it around his partner’s shoulders and explains. “You have lost this time, sir. However, you still did a good job, and it was enough for me. So, it was already a huge win for me being able to play with you tonight.”

Despite his partner’s gentle words, Shiki stubbornly backfires. “Hmph. Just cut down to the business. What do you want me to do?”

At first, Akira briefly averts his gaze from the commander and ponders. After returning his gaze, he bites his lower lip and holds onto his partner’s shirt. “I’m not sure if it is an appropriate thing to ask…”

Yet Shiki immediately responds with a straight face. “Just say it.”

After a brief pause, the silver-haired male shakily respires and answers with such determined eyes. “I want you to be my maid for a day!”

Suddenly, he widens his blue eyes and covers his mouth as the heat spreads on his face and ears.

He definitely angered the commander with his shameful and disgusting request. Nevertheless, he has no choice but to accept the consequences of his words.

More importantly, even if it was the whiskey talking, it doesn’t change the fact that somewhere deep inside him; he wished for it. Akira thinks while preparing to be slapped and punished for his so-called brute behavior.

Yet Shiki only smirks like a feline while how his prized possession shrugs like a scolded puppy.

A second later, Akira silently whimpers as someone lands his palm on his head and ruffles his hair.

“It cannot be helped, then. I forgot that even someone like you has such desires.” The dark-haired male replies in a purring-like voice while stroking his partner’s hair.

When his palm slides on his cheek, he gently holds his chin and adds in a suggestive tone without removing his thrilling eyes. “However, I need to see how much effort you’re willing to put in.”

In the end, Akira honestly confesses while his partner wraps his arm around him and brings him closer. “As much as you need.”

‘How adorable…’ Shiki blissfully narrows his gaze and sits his partner on top the poker table. More importantly, his subordinate’s loving eyes and drunken honesty make it difficult for him to hold back.


It is the beginning of the new day.

Even without opening his eyes, Akira is certain it is still an early morning. Perhaps even a bit too early than usual.

However, his dry throat and dizziness immediately remind him about having a few drinks with the commander.

When the memories of yesterday before dozing out flash in his mind, the military secretary opens his eyes and immediately sits.

As he feels the heat rushing to his cheeks, he covers his mouth and lowers his gaze. ‘Hopefully, I have done nothing wrong to embarrass the commander.’

“Ah, you’re finally awake, Young Master.” The gently yet strangely familiar voice speaks up.

Certainly, it catches Akira’s attention, and he turns his head in disbelief. “… Sir?”

After noticing this person, he lowers his shoulders. He switches to his straight face while staring at this tall, busty maid with a slim waist and pale skin, long braided ebony hair, and bewitching crimson eyes, wearing a long-sleeved black shirt and matching color skirt that seems to cover her ankles and snow-white apron and headscarf.

“Who are you? And what are you doing here?” The silver-haired male asks in a strict tone.

At that moment, the dark-haired woman only smirks like a feline while resting her palm on her cheek and holding her arm. “Oh, my… Where are my manners?~”

When she closes her eyes, she sweeps a low curtsy. “My name is Shikiko.”

After fixing her posture, she keeps her hands close and introduces her further. “I’m your new personal maid, who was selected and assigned by Shiki-sama to serve all your needs.”

Yet Akira is confused and doesn’t trust this woman at all. Nevertheless, he decides to clear his doubts and raises his eyebrow. “I know all servants in this mansion. However, I do not recall anyone being hired recently.”

After a brief pause, he exhales and adds. “If you really telling the truth, then you shouldn’t have any issues if we go together to see the head maid and ask about you.”

Meanwhile, Shikiko is entertained by his response and does her best not to snort loudly. But for now, she comments while keeping a strangely familiar smug on her face. “My… It seems poor Young Master has hit his head and has forgotten that Shiki-sama is on an important trip and will return in a couple of days. Ah, but should I help you to get up first?~”

While the daring maid approaches Akira without making the slightest noise, he frowns and refuses to show any signs of being intimidated. “For a housemaid, you are allowing yourself a lot. Or have you forgotten everything that you were supposed to learn in your training?”

When Shikiko is close to him and rests her knee on the bed, she leans closer and grabs his pajama shirt. Upon narrowing her gaze, she backfires in a deeper voice. “Then why don’t you discipline me? Or are you nothing but a coward dog that only barks, Akira?”

After realizing who the owner of this voice is, he widens his big blue eyes. “Co-commander? What… Why are you dressed like this?”

For sure, his subordinate’s visibly confused puppy behavior entertains him and only makes him want to eat him right here, right now.

Despite the strong temptation to tease him, Shiki only curves a satisfied smile and releases his shirt. “Took you long to recognize me. And if it wasn’t me, you would have been already dead by the enemy’s hand.”

When he withdraws from his partner, he sits on the edge of the bed and explains without removing his eyes from him. “Hmph. It seems you forgot completely about your wish. So, looks like I would need to train your memory too.”

But for now, the dark-haired male keeps his smug feline face and studies Akira’s still dumbfounded face.

A few moments later, Shiki closes his eyes and sighs. “You have twenty-four hours left. So, do whatever you want. Or do you want me to decide what you should think?”

While fixating his blue eyes on his partner, he nervously swallows the saliva and responds in an unsure tone. “I… I see…”

‘It seems it may take even weeks for him to make his mind…’ The dark-haired wonders.

As Shiki corners him, he suggests. “Then why you don’t you treat me like any other maid?”

“Are you sure about that? Will you be fine? Then please take care of me, sir,” Akira immediately questions him without hiding his concern.

‘Hmph. Let’s see how this dog behaves when his owner is not home.’ Shiki ponders while grasping the bedsheet.

The dark-haired male backfires in a flirtatious, feminine enough voice. “Have you forgotten who am I? I’m just your maid, Shikiko.”

After gracefully getting up, he adds before taking his leave. “You have a bunch of time until the next morning. So, use it wisely, Young Master.”


After a while, somewhere in the kitchen. After pouring a few spoons of coffee into the teapot, Shiki carries it to the hot water machine.

Thus, upon placing the teapot, he clicks the button, and the boiling hot starts running.

However, as he wonders if it should take this long to fill, his thoughts are interrupted by feeling an unpleasant presence behind him.

Suddenly, Shiki widens his eyes upon a large hand and slaps his bottom.

The middle-aged man asks while groping his new victim. “Who is this little lady? Are you new here?”

Meanwhile, the dark-haired male in a maid’s dress closes his eyes and curls his lip.

Despite the bone-chilling and murderous aura around the supposed-to-be-poor-woman, the perverted man cracks a nervous smile and steps back. “Come on, don’t be shy. So, why don’t you-?”

Suddenly, Shiki turns around and douses the scalding hot water into the bastard’s face, making him lose his balance.

As the middle-aged man screams in pain, he curls into a ball and covers his face. “YOU… YOU BITCH!… MY EYES! FACE! IT FUCKING HURTS! I CAN’T FUCKING SEE!”

At that moment, the other kitchen staff freeze in the same spot and stare at this couple without daring interfacing. Not after these deadly crimson eyes pierce through anyone’s soul.

However, it doesn’t affect the dark-haired male, who only looks down at the pathetic creature below him with his piercing gaze.

But for now, Shiki lifts his eyes and notices a large hanging knife on the magnetic board.

‘That should do it.’ He curves a sadistic smile while scheming how he would torture his attacker.

Just as the dark-haired male takes a step, someone grabs his ankle. Instead of wasting time, he shakes off the fiend’s hand and stomps on his palm several times.

“You dare to defy me with that stupid face? Don’t make me laugh. Fools like you don’t even deserve to crawl like mud worms.” Shiki comments in a cold and condescending yet feminine voice before sending a powerful kick into the lying man’s face without shedding the slightest emotion.

Suddenly, the sound of familiar rushing footsteps growing louder with each step alerts even a fearsome tyrant like him.

‘Hmph. A dog always can sense when his owner needs him. Good.’ Shiki wonders, while lowering his head and cracking a proud smile.

And so, after closing his eyes and tilting his head, he drops to his knees. Lastly, he turns his head away and covers his face while patiently waiting for one certain person to show up.

Suddenly, the kitchen door slams wide open, and Akira enters. “What is the meaning of this?!”

Even when he checks on the standing staff and lowers his gaze, he becomes more confused. Despite that, the blue-eyed secretary keeps a straight face.

“That brute…” Shiki whimpers without facing his savior. After resting his palms on the ground, he lifts his head and fixates his pleading eyes on Akira.

The silver-haired male feels slowly wrapped around his partner’s finger, but all he can do is listen to this innocent cry for help. “It’s my first day at work and all I did is… All I did was prepare coffee for Akira-sama before that man assaulted me. So, please forgive me for my clumsiness and taking so long.”

One older maid leans closer and whispers to the kitchen assistant. “That newbie won’t get away like this. If no woman before her moved Akira-sama’s heart, why does she think she is any different?”

“That’s right. It is only the matter of seconds before she’ll get fired. So, she is just wasting time on tricking Akira-sama.” Another maid in the middle responds.

“She should be glad if anyone will let her work as a cleaner.” The kitchen assistant whispers back in a bitter tone.

Meanwhile, Shikiko’s words and vulnerability pull Akira’s heartstrings and don’t leave him indifferent towards this version of his most important person. He even forgets about the suffering man with the burnt face.

Besides, the commander is the commander, even in this shape and form, even with the new name. Therefore, his well-being should be above anything else.

“Shikiko…” The silver-haired secretary whispers. After approaching his partner, he places his hands under Shiki’s armpits and picks him up like a large cat. “Please stand up.”

Soon enough, he widens his blue eyes when Shiki buries his head into his shoulder and clings to him. Of course, he understands that this might be nothing more than fake, but he is surprised to see a new side of the supreme ruler.

A second later, Akira remembers where they are, and only closes his eyes and respires.

When he puts on his poker face, he orders the entire staff. “Call the medical help. When you’re done treating him, lock him to the basement. Once you are done, inform me immediately.”

After a brief pause, he lowers his gaze and withdraws his partner’s face with his palm. While he gently holds Shiki’s chin, he slightly softens his voice. “You. Please come with me. We need to discuss this incident with the head maid.”

Meanwhile, the so-called Shikiko only narrows the thrilled eyes and makes his prized possession’s heart skip a beat. “Yes, Young Master.”

Certainly, if it weren’t for being disguised as some woman, he would ravish his subordinate despite his protests or caring about such petite details as place and time. It cannot be helped... He has to keep his new persona for a while. Shiki reminds himself and pushes Akira away with a small purring-like noise.

Before leaving, he turns his head and prompts the silver-haired male. “I suggest you leave them cleaning this mess, Young Master. So, shall we go?”

Instead of saying anything, Akira nods and follows Shiki.

After all, who knows what else may happen if he doesn’t keep an eye on the commander or how he may endanger himself if anyone recognizes him? With that in mind, he closes his blue eyes and sighs.


A few hours have passed, somewhere in the study room. While the dark-haired male wipes the dust from the bookshelves, he feels Akira’s eyes on him.

More so, each time he checks on his subordinate, he keeps his poker face while quickly brushing through the book spines with his fingers or turning his head away. Yet Akira’s inquisitive behavior makes him more interested in him.

Suddenly, the unsuspicious secretary gets startled by the gentle voice. “You’ve been staring at me for a while, Younger Master.”

However, Akira faces his personal maid and backfires in a formal tone. “Am I?”

Before he says anything else, he widens his big blue eyes as Shiki corners him.

“Is there anything you want from me?” The dark-haired male asks without giving his partner even the slightest chance of escaping his trap.

Meanwhile, several books from above shelves are wobbling on the edge, and in a matter of seconds, they are about to land on their target.

Fortunately, Shiki’s sharp reaction is faster. Thus, he hits with the elbow the flying books, one by one.

When they land on the carpet, either being spread or lying on the side, Shiki brushes the hair from his face and returns his gaze to the dumbfounded secretary.

“Oh, my… are you hurt, Young Master?” The red-eyed male places his palms on his partner’s cheeks.

For sure, these crimson eyes mesmerize Akira, and his cheeks are dyed in a lovely tone of pink.

But for now, he widens his eyes as Shiki presses his palm against his forehead and comments while keeping his poker face. “Do you have a fever?”

“Hmph. It’s only a false alert. Good.” The dark-haired male narrows his gaze and removes his palm.

After a brief pause, he closes his eyes and lowers his shoulders. “In any case, I would need to rearrange the bookshelves so that one day you won’t get killed by a simple encyclopedia…”

But for now, Shiki picks a small pocket watch from his shirt pocket and checks on time. “My… It’s almost time for the afternoon teatime. So, I should be going, Young Master.”

When he turns his back and is about to leave with elegance, he feels how someone grab his hand and stop in the same spot.

“Sir, please wait!” The silver-haired secretary demands.

When Shiki turns his head, Akira fixes himself while containing his emotions. “Er, I mean, Shikiko. You can leave it to anyone else. So, can you stay here and keep me company for longer?”

After releasing his hand, he keeps it close to his heart, but without removing his eyes from his partner. “Of course, if you don’t mind…”

‘What a needy master I have to serve. How cute…’ Shiki ponders while looking at his subordinate, who is nothing more than a puppy.

Such a request amuses the so-called Shikiko, and he curves a satisfied smile while keeping his hands close. “If this is what you want, I cannot say no.”

“Then do you know how to play chess?” Akira gives a questioning look.

“Before being able to serve you, I had to learn how to keep Akira-sama entertained.” The dark-haired male explains in an unusually soft tone.

Instead of letting himself be completely captivated by Shiki’s charms, the silver-haired male closes his eyes and coughs. “I see… In that case, before we start, can I ask you something?”

After taking a deep breath, he adds. “If I win, can you grant one wish?”

“As if I’m not here for you, Young Master.” Shiki sighs.

Lastly, Akira fixes his back and speaks up with firm determination. “Please do not forget your words, Shikiko. And make yourself comfortable while I prepare the table.”

Meanwhile, the dark-haired male cannot help himself but smirk like a feline before elegantly walking towards the armchair.


After intense gameplay, it seems someone from above is in favor of the preserved military secretary and helps him win the match.

Meanwhile, Shiki tries to calm himself and mentally prepares himself for the worst. But for now, he congratulates the victor of the battle in a polite tone. “As I expected - no less from Young Master. So, what do you want me to do?”

At first, Akira hesitantly averts his gaze from his partner and thinks. When he faces Shiki, he nervously swallows the saliva and briefly instructs him. “First, I need you to follow me somewhere where no one will see or hear us. It’s just something personal.”

From his tense shoulders and posture alone, the dark-haired male can tell Akira has dark ulterior motives, which he has planned all along but is still ashamed to voice.

Nevertheless, he has no choice but to follow the military secretary to whatever place he’ll humiliate him in this weak form before finishing him.

‘In the end, you’re no different from any filthy animal in heat. I’ll make sure to remember it all.’ Shiki wonders while slightly trembling and narrowing his gaze as step by step he is getting closer to his own execution.

More so, he doesn’t like how his partner anxiously looks on the sides, as if anyone could follow them. For sure, it only makes his guts twisted.

However, he is immediately taken aback by the concerned secretary.

As Akira places his palm on the doorknob, he turns his head and asks. “Is everything alright? Are you feeling sick?”

When Shiki closes his crimson eyes, he lowers his eyes and sighs. “Do not mind me.”

After opening the bedroom door, the silver-haired male holds it open for his partner. “Alright. Then after you.”

And so, when they are both inside, Akira locks the door behind him while Shiki waits for a fate worse than death.


After a brief pause, Akira exhales and addresses his partner while fixating his blue, serious eyes on him. “Do you know why did I ask you to come here, Shikiko?”

However, Shiki only lowers his head and shakes it.

When the preserved secretary approaches his partner, he grasps his braid and confesses. “There is one thing that only you can do it. So…”

After wrapping his arm around the dark-haired male’s waist, he adds. “Please, return the commander to me!”

Thus, with one sudden movement, he pulls Shikiko’s wig and reveals the owner of this body.

After it reaches the ground, Akira pulls Shiki into a tight hug and sinks his fingers into his messy hair. “I’m so glad to see you again, sir. So, welcome back.”

Suddenly, he gets alerted upon grasping the commander’s unusually slim waist and sensing a pair of soft breasts pressing against him. “You… You really went that far. Please do not misunderstand me, sir. I’m happy that you kept your word and done for this for me, but…”

Meanwhile, Shiki uses his chance to escape from Akira’s embrace and complains. “Hmph. Then help me to get out of this thing.”

As he approaches the bed, he gives an irritated, demanding look.

Of course, Akira follows him without a second thought.

When both sit next to each other, the dark-haired male removes the apron and starts unbuttoning his shirt.

As Akira watches how his partner tosses the maid uniform shirt away, he covers his mouth with his palm upon noticing a large bust under his white t-shirt. “How… How did you manage to get a surgery in the middle of the night? Don’t tell me… You also risked your health and escaped the hospital…”

When Shiki briefly stands up to lower the skirt’s zipper on the back, he removes this piece of clothing and explains. “Relax. It’s fake. Tsk. As if I let any freak to deform me.”

“I… I see…” Akira responds in an unsure tone while his partner removes his t-shirt and reveals the reason his waist is so thin. Surely, just looking at that wine-colored corset crushes him.

Upon noticing the light-skinned color silicone cosplay gear attached to Shiki, the silver-haired secretary secretly feels relieved, as if a large boulder was removed from his chest.

After removing it, Shiki aims it at an already thrown a pile of clothes and throws it.

But for now, he turns his back to Akira and briefly commands. “Untie it.”

At first, the military secretary hesitates to bring his hands on the corset. Soon, as he undoes it, he asks. “That looks painful. But how did you put it on?”

Meanwhile, Shiki only cracks a smile. “I called one of the maids when you fall asleep.”

Upon feeling how his internal organs and lungs are released from the pressure that was restraining and slowly killing him, he closes his eyes and deeply breathes.

After a brief pause, he turns to Akira’s side and adds. “Since one day I’ve spotted one of your men watching together a very questionable type of content, I immediately recognized one of our servants. I could have simply fired her, but I decided not. So, last night, I called her to cooperate with me and threatened to kill one by one of her relatives and friends before exposing her if she won’t keep her mouth shut.”

The silver-haired male holds his chin and lowers his gaze. “Even so, that was reckless of you. What if anyone else discovers that you were dressing like this? You may have put not only your reputation but also your life at risk…”

When he closes his eyes and tightens his lips, he sighs. “I appreciate your effort and what you did for me today. I really do. But I really don’t want anything bad to happen to you, so please prioritize your safety.”

Suddenly, he widens his blue eyes and silently whimpers when the commander lands his palm on his head.

As Shiki ruffles his subordinate’s hair, he calmly replies. “You worry too much, you idiot. As if I’ll let any filthy insect touch me or spit nonsense.”

A second later, he adds. “Haven’t I told you already? You are the only person who is worth of staying by my side. Or do I need to remind you why?”

These words move the preserved military secretary, and he pushes his partner on the bed. While pinning his hands, Akira looks at him with loving and longing eyes. “It might be selfish of me, but… Can I hold you?”

Meanwhile, Shiki only turns his head like a prideful feline. “Don’t ask stupid questions when your twenty-four hours are not over yet? Do as you wish before I changed my mind.”

In the end, Akira leans close and whispers. “Thank you.”

And so, even if the whole evening and night are still ahead, the silver-haired secretary will do anything in his power to make sure that Shiki is showered in attention and care which he deserves.

mina_chan95: (Default)
Title: The Rain of Detoxification
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Summary:

After a long, exhausting battle, one silver-haired woman only leans against the wall and stares into the void without caring about anything.
No matter how long Akira waits to disappear in the never-ending rain and wash down her cursed blood, it's not Death who reaches out for her, but someone else. Someone she has fought in the past.
What fate awaits for Akira?
Read and find out~

AO3 Link



Click here to read

Somewhere in the Toshima’s streets. One young silver-haired woman wearing an orange t-shirt, a darker color jacket with a fluffy collar, and gray jeans is wandering in the never-ending maze of streets.

It doesn’t help that the concrete-colored thick clouds that cover the sky mess up her sense of time. Therefore, she isn’t sure how much time she has wasted running in circles and looking for the lost Keisuke.

After all, the brunette could be hiding anywhere or just waiting in an open spot for Akira to show up and pick her up.

For sure, in times like this, the blue-eyed gal curses herself for letting Keisuke stay in Toshima and now having an extra back to cover or a tail that follows her everywhere.

As Akira reaches a narrow dark alley, she widens her blue eyes and immediately draws her combat knife.

Fortunately, her reaction is faster, and she blocks the sword attack from behind.

As their weapons clash and the white sparkles cover the naked blade, Akira lifts her gaze and gets alerted by her opponent’s crimson deadly eyes behind that pale-as-a-ghost poker face.

Despite the enemy’s intimidation, Akira refuses to look away and show weakness.

Meanwhile, that strong determination in these fearless blue eyes sparkles the dark-haired woman’s curiosity, and she briefly cracks a smile. But for now, she withdraws her katana before unleashing another strike.

Instead of blocking her opponent’s strike, Akira rolls to the side and dodges the lower cut.

While the silver-haired woman crouches, she realizes that something is off.

The tall, pale woman wearing a long black leather coat with short sleeves, long matching color gloves, and the same color leather pants only stands here with her lowered sword and closes her eyes. More importantly, she doesn’t wear tags but a couple of silver crosses.

Even when Akira stands up while fixating her eyes on the swordsman, she understands she cannot give in to her provocation.

After all, she may lose her head. Therefore, it might be wiser to use this as her chance to escape, right?

As the silver-haired woman keeps her defensive position, she understands that her opponent may cut her into pieces before she even takes a step back.

Thus, while having nothing to lose, Akira charges at the dark-haired woman.

Besides, the upper slash may reach her throat. She wonders as she is about to unleash a diagonal attack.

Suddenly, she widens her big blue eyes and gasps as the swordsman gracefully dodges the strike, making Akira nearly lose her balance.

A second later, the dark-haired woman smiles sadistically and hits her opponent’s back with an elbow.

Just as Akira harshly falls to the ground and groans, she is immediately grabbed by the collar of her orange t-shirt and lifted.

Soon, she closes her eyes and moans as her back touches the building’s wall.

Yet, the silver-haired woman shakily opens her eyes when the gloved palm holds her chin and gently tilts her head.

As these red eyes study her prey, Akira comments while being in awe. “Wait… Aren’t you?… Shiki?”

As Shiki narrows her indifferent gaze, she speaks up. “Hmph. Is this little puppy knows my name already?”

When she places her thumb on Akira’s lower lip, she adds. “However, it will be a such a waste of my time if I’ll kill a small fry like you, now.”

For sure, these words make the blue-eyed woman frown and shake off her hand.

“The hell with you!” Akira backfires without removing her indignant eyes from her opponent.

However, when she notices an amused feline look on Shiki’s face, she nervously swallows her saliva.

While the dark-haired woman places her palm on Akira’s cheek and slides it down the neck, she parts her partner’s legs with her knee.

Despite the chilling air around Shiki and her intimidation, she only listens to her while narrowing her stubborn eyes. “Good. That’s a fitting look for a dog.”

As she releases her partner’s t-shirt, she grasps Akira’s necklace with dog tags and addresses her in a deeper voice. “However, I will still tame a stray dog like you until you eat from my hand.”

After removing her hands from her new toy and stepping back, Shiki proudly continues her speech. “… But not now.”

Lastly, as the dark-haired woman turns her back, she adds before leaving. “I’ll come to pick you up when you are ready.”

Even as Shiki walks away with a contented look until she disappears in the night, Akira leans her back against her back while holding her arm and silently growling at this arrogant woman.

Even if her rational mind tells her not to persuade the terror of the night that makes Igura players scream in terror, a brand-new rage boils inside her that won’t be satisfied until she takes down this woman before Il Re.

But for now, Akira widens her blue eyes upon remembering that she is not in the neutral area, and she must look up for her trustworthy weapon before continuing her search.


A few days have passed. It is pouring as hard as from a strong shower outside that even feral crackheads are hiding in their found shelters.

Meanwhile, the silver-haired woman only leans against the wall and stares into the void with dull eyes, without caring about anything after a long, emotionally exhausting battle.

At this point, nothing really matters anymore, and the corpse lying close to her only makes her regret being brought into this world.

After all, she failed to save her childhood friend and her cursed blood slowly tortured Keisuke to death.

Perhaps it might be better to get rid of this blood completely. Or so Akira wonders as she stares at her bleeding palm washed by the rainwater.

Yet, she is too exhausted to even look up for her trustworthy weapon and slit her veins and fasten this process.

In the end, the blue-eyed woman lowers her gaze and sighs, wishing to disappear into the never-ending rain of Toshima.


Some time has passed. Unfortunately, there are no signs of the heavy rain stopping soon.

Despite that, one dark-haired woman carrying an umbrella refuses to return to her lair. After all, she is convinced that even in such awful weather, there will be someone worth her attention. Someone who will keep her entertained for a while, and she knows it.

Thus, the red-eyed swordsman continues wandering in the empty Toshima streets, seeking someone to play with.

Soon, she notices a couple of people in the distance - one is lying in the middle of the road while another sits against the wall.

Surely, these Rein addicts are nothing more than wild animals that don’t care about the time and place to sort out their petite fights. Shiki assumes as she closes her eyes and sighs.

As she approaches this couple, she lowers her head and kicks the lying brunette on her stomach as if she is nothing more than an ugly insect.

‘Tsk. It’s just another weak trash that overdosed on that disgusting drug. What a pathetic piece of useless meat…’ the red-eyed swordsman ponders while keeping an indifferent face while staring at Keisuke, who foams the saliva with glassy eyes.

Yet, Shiki lifts and turns her head upon hearing a faithful but familiar voice.

“Wait… What are you… why are you here?” Akira speaks up to her in a weak voice while leaning forward.

Upon spotting one silver-haired woman with ice-cold blue eyes, Shiki narrows her gaze and smirks like a feline. “So, you’re here as well?”

Instead of saying anything, Akira doesn’t remove her eyes from the elegantly approaching swordsman.

When Shiki squats in front of the exhausted Igura player, she observes her while keeping her poker face.

Such behavior makes the blue-eyed woman back off until her back presses the wall.

However, when her cut palm touches the wet ground, she closes her eyes and softly moans.

Meanwhile, this reaction piques Shiki’s curiosity, and grabs her partner’s wrist.

As she brings it close, Akira protests while trying to shake off her hand. “Let me go!”

Unfortunately for her, the red-eyed swordsman keeps a tight grip, making Akira frown and grind her teeth.

While Shiki studies the cut palm, she asks. “Who did this to you? Was it that small fry over there?”

After she lifts her crimson eyes, she adds. “You will only bleed dry if you leave it open like this.”

“If you came here just to mock me, leave or kill me already!” Akira immediately backfires while keeping an indignant look on her face.

These words surprise the dark-haired woman and momentarily freeze her in the same spot.

After she closes her eyes and chuckles, she opens her eyes and throws her umbrella away.

As Shiki cracks a mocking smile and grasps Akira’s cheeks with one hand and another cornering her, she brings her face close to her and comments. “Hmph. You are still baring your fangs and bark at your owner.”

Meanwhile, the wounded fighter stares into her opponent’s eyes with her stubborn ones.

For now, her partner’s look entertains the red-eyed swordsman, and Shiki adds. “Besides, who allowed you to decide what I should do with you?”

After withdrawing her face and removing her palm from Akira’s face, Shiki presses her gloved palm against her forehead and brushes up her wet bangs from her face.

While she strokes her partner’s hair, water gushes through her fingers and runs down the silver-haired woman’s face.

Meanwhile, instead of silently enduring it and accepting her defeat, Akira gathers her strength and grabs the same arm that touches her with both hands, attempting to lower it.

However, such a gesture thrills Shiki, and she remarks with a content look. “What an impatient and needy dog you are. You may still lack discipline, but it’s fine.”

When she removes Akira’s palms from her arm, she proudly declares while placing one arm under her partner’s thighs and another one behind her shoulders. “You’re going with me because you belong to me.”

“What are you-?” the silver-haired woman objects. Yet, she gets alerted by Shiki standing up and lifting her in her arms.

But for now, Akira narrows her eyes and stares at the red-eyed swordsman who carries her like a wounded princess.

In the end, before taking their leave, Shiki asks while checking on her new prized possession. “What’s wrong? I’m taking you to your new home.”

Thus, this couple disappears in the never-ending rain.


Some time has passed. Finally, the dark-haired woman unlocks the apartment’s door, and both enter.

Upon the sound of the light switch clicked, the blue-eyed woman was genially surprised to see such a well-kept room. Hell, there is even electricity, and the windows are in fine condition.

When she turns her head towards the bed, Shiki stops and comments in a stricter tone. “Dirty animals do not lie on a clean bedsheet. Who knows what dirt they can bring to their owner?”

After Akira lifts her head and narrows her questioning eyes, the dark-haired swordsman gives her a proud look and explains. “However, before I find a suitable dog bed for you, you will be allowed to sleep on the same one as your master.”

While the water droplets from Akira’s soaked hair run down her face, she clings to her partner’s open coat and asks. “Why are you doing this? Just what do you want from me?”

Even a mysterious killer who spreads fear and despair like Shiki can barely keep her poker face when she holds an embodiment of an innocent puppy in her arms that relies on her master’s guidance and care.

Lastly, the red-eyed swordsman announces before bringing her partner to the bathroom, which is just a short distance from the bedroom. “Have you already forgotten? Hmph. It cannot be helped then… But first, you need to take a bath.”

No matter how it doesn’t sound promising for the blue-eyed woman, she understands she has to accept whatever Shiki has prepared.


After entering the bathroom and closing the door behind her, Shiki walks to the bathtub and puts her partner into it.

A second later, the dark-haired woman briefly orders. “Strip.”

Meanwhile, Akira lifts her head and only dumbfounded stares at her partner.

Suddenly, the blue-eyed woman widens her eyes and nervously swallows the saliva as the tip of the sharp blade points at her neck.

Yet, Shiki is unaffected by Akira’s reactions, and she asks her. “Did I stutter? Or do you prefer that I cut them off for you?”

When she lowers the tip of her katana down to the collar of Akira’s t-shirt, she adds. “Either way is fine by me.”

Finally, Akira had enough of Shiki’s arrogant behavior. After closing her blue eyes, she carefully pushes the blade away with a couple of her fingers. “I get it. If that makes you leave me alone.”

Such an answer curves a satisfied smile on the dark-haired woman’s face, and she lets her trustworthy weapon rest in the sheath.

After leaving her partner’s side, Shiki removes her long leather gloves and coat and hangs them on the nearest hanger.

In the meantime, Akira doesn’t rush. After removing her sneakers, socks, and jacket with a white fur collar soaked in rainwater, she drops them on the floor.

It feels much more liberating. It’s like a heavy ballast that was restraining her has been removed.

But for now, as she undoes her belt and struggles to get out from the pair of wet jeans that stick to her legs, she doesn’t even notice the one certain swordsman in front of her.

Suddenly, the silver-haired woman gasps and closes her eyes as she gets lifted by her ankles and slips down to the bottom of the bathtub.

Fortunately, she avoids hitting her head against the bathtub’s inner walls. A moment later, she opens her eyes and frowns when Shiki grabs her jeans and shakes them.

While Akira fixates her eyes on the dark-haired woman, she indignantly asks. “What? What do you think of doing?”

Instead of saying anything, Shiki ignores her while dealing with the current task. And after a while of struggling, she tosses away the bothering piece of clothing.

However, when the red-eyed swordsman bends and grasps her partner’s black shorts underwear, she widens her eyes upon a harsher slap against her palm and her precious prized possession’s warning. “Don’t touch me!”

After realizing what she has done, Akira deeply breathes and stares at Shiki while covering her mouth with her elbow.

When she lowers her arm, she adds while keeping her poker face. “You are allowing yourself too much, don’t you think so?”

The dark-haired woman lowers her head and briefly chuckles. After she raises her head, she brushes away the wet bangs from her pale while curving a vicious smile. “Aren’t you afraid that your hand will dry and fall off after harming your master?”

As she leans closer and corners her prey without giving her hope of escaping alive, her red eyes blaze with hell’s fury.

Yet, instead of showing any sign of fear and doubt, Akira looks straight into the demon’s eyes with her stubborn gaze.

While Shiki grasps her cheeks with her palm, she comments in a deeper voice. “Looks like I would need to discipline you later.”

After she loosens her grasp and slides her palm on her partner’s neck, she declares before tearing her necklace. “First, you don’t need this.”

Thus, with the clicking metal hitting the ceramic plates, Shiki slides her under Akira’s t-shirt and spreads her palm.

As she exposes her partner’s belly, she blissfully narrows her eyes and exhales. After all, that pleasant sensation of her adored pet’s twitching abs at her fingertips thrills the dark-haired swordsman.

“Looks like you’re already responding to your master’s touch. Good.” Shiki comments in a satisfied tone as she grasps the silver-haired woman’s t-shirt and lifts it.

But for now, the red-eyed woman briefly orders her in her usual tone. “Lift your arms.”

Meanwhile, Akira only fixates her cold blue eyes on her opponent and follows the command. If that is the only fastest way to get rid of her, then so it is.

After removing her orange t-shirt and tossing it away, Shiki briefly chuckles. “What is this thing? Are you a security dog if you wear it?”

“Hmph. Either way, you won’t need this too!” the red-eyed swordsman declares as she grips the front zipper of Akira’s black sports bra.

Thus, with one sudden move, she lowers the zipper and reveals her partner’s bust.

For sure, the silver-haired woman’s cheeks are heathen, and she instinctively covers her naked breasts with her arm.

Meanwhile, Shiki asks in an authoritative tone. “Remove it. Or do you wash yourself with your clothes on?”

“Leave! Then, I’ll do it.” Akira immediately backfires and secretly hopes she gets rid of this pesky woman.

Yet, Shiki narrows her piercing gaze and grips her partner’s wrists. After pressing Akira’s palms on the bottom of the bathtub, she stares at the struggling creature below.

Even if her red eyes glow in merciless crimson, her voice remains assertive but calm. “Who are you to order your master?”

At the moment, Akira only turns her head away. Besides, there might be no greater humiliation than this.

Even with her shakily closed eyes, the silver-haired woman feels Shiki’s eyes on her. She is certain of it.

It doesn’t help her that this mysterious woman might be staring at her chest and making her hear her own heartbeat inside her head.

But for now, Akira shakily respires as her nipples become erect from being exposed to the world.

It’s only because of feeling cold, right? There is no other way. Or so she convinces herself while keeping her legs close and impatiently waiting to be finished by her supposed-to-be enemy.

Instead of that, she feels how her bra’s straps slide down her shoulders and arms until it lands in the bathtub.

“Now, finish on your own,” Shiki briefly commands.

For sure, her partner’s voice makes Akira open her blue eyes and face this woman. Yet, she understands she is in no power to object.

When Akira sighs, she places her hands around her underwear and removes it while trying to cover her private parts.

Lastly, when she throws away the remaining clothes, she hugs her knees and gives a questioning look to Shiki.

“See? Was it that difficult? And so much fuzz over nothing…” the red-eyed woman mockingly comments.

After Shiki leans forward, she stretches her arm up to pick up the showerhead.

Meanwhile, Akira instinctively closes her eyes as Shiki’s large bust touches her face.

‘That woman does it on purpose just to make fun of me, doesn’t she?’ She wonders as Shiki’s breasts rub against her.

But for now, the dark-haired swordsman brings her arm below it and turns on the shower head.

As the water runs down her pale skin, Shiki indifferently stares at it.

When the water warms to the right temperature, she lowers her arm and briefly gives another command. “Close your eyes until I say so.”

Meanwhile, Akira only silently follows the orders. Yet, the sudden water spray against her hair nearly jolts her.

A second later, she gets alerted as Shiki buries her fingers in her hair and gets goosebumps as her scalp is massaged.

After wetting her silver hair, Akira hears the showerhead stop and taps the bathtub.

Suddenly, she shrugs upon something cold and thick poured on her head.

However, just before she opens her mouth, Shiki’s palm brushes her hair from her face.

When her partner rubs her scalp, Akira hears the rising cracking of shampoo foam.

Yet, it doesn’t take long for Akira to get used to and even enjoy how someone like a cold-blooded killer like that woman carefully washes her hair.

Besides, she hasn’t expected that even something as simple as that can be enjoyable if not relaxing.

But for now, the blue-eyed woman lets out without realizing the nearly purring-like noises as Shiki massages behind her ears and her scalp.

Even when her partner rinses her hair, she wonders whether it is okay to be spoiled like this by the stranger. More so, this might be probably the first time when anyone has ever shown such a care for her.

However, Akira’s further thoughts are interrupted by Shiki’s usual voice. “Open your eyes and give me your arm.”

This time, she stretches her arm and allows it to rest in the red-eyed woman’s hands without a second thought.

After examining it, Shiki comments on the small cut in her pet’s palm. “It’s not as bad as I thought. Good. That will save me more time.”

When she releases her arm, she picks a round sponge and shower gel from the other edge of the bath.

After pouring a bit of the shower gel on the sponge, Shiki squeezes until the soap foam runs down through the gaps of her fingers and briefly commands. “Stay still.”

In the end, Akira accepts her fate and allows this woman to scrub her back.

Surprisingly, Shiki is not too rough or puts too much pressure like it’s that perfect balance. More importantly, she already knows her body better than herself and the right spots to rub.

When the dark-haired swordsman finishes washing her back, her adored prized possession offers one and then another arm for her.

However, Akira widens her eyes as Shiki places her palm on her knee and grabs her wrist.

As the silver-haired woman holds onto her partner’s arm, she stares with her shy blue eyes. “I… I can do it on my own. So, I don’t need any spectators for that.”

Yet, Shiki only smirks like a proud feline. “Ho~ You are an impatient puppy that cannot sit in the same spot during the bath time.”

After she shakes her pet’s hands off her, she adds. “However, it seems that I would need to hold you down and not let you run away until you are clean.”

When Shiki lands her palms on her partner’s knees, she spreads her legs and slides her palms down her thighs.

However, instead of resisting, Akira only turns her head away while her ears burn from embarrassment. “You don’t have to stare at me like this…”

After Shiki rests her palm on Akira’s shoulder, she washes her chest.

Meanwhile, the silver-haired woman closes her eyes and clenches her palms while letting out silent purring-like noises.

For sure, there might be no greater humiliation than being watched and cleaned by the same person who defeated her in the not-so-distant past.

What does Shiki, who’s supposed to be a cold-blooded killer, see in her that makes her spare her life? Or is she nothing more than a pass of time for Shiki before getting bored? Probably, probably not. Who knows?

If so, why did this large cat clean her caught mouse before eating it? Or could it be - this feline is too spoiled and only plays with new and clean toys? Or so Akira wonders while the sponge moves all over her upper body without missing a spot.

Yet, she knows one thing - her body has already become sensitive thanks to this mysterious woman’s touch. Even when the sponge moving in Shiki’s hand massages her breasts and her buds, Akira shakily respires and closes her blue eyes.

Suddenly, she whimpers and instinctively keeps her legs close as the sponge touches her groin.

After she faces her partner, she asks while trying to keep her poker face. “What are you-?”

However, Shiki interrupts her with another brief command. “Spread your legs and lift your bottom.”

Without a second thought, Akira once again follows this woman’s orders, no matter how she would look in such a shameful position.

More so, the longer Shiki rubs her privates, Akira lets out adorable whims and respires at the rising heat in her lower regions, followed by the unknown pleasant sensation.

Eventually, Shiki’s calm voice returns her to reality. “Give me your leg.”

When Akira lowers her bottom, she raises her leg while giving Shiki a slightly irritated look until it rests in her partner’s hands.

To her surprise, the dark-haired woman keeps her poker face without biting remarks while cleaning her foot and ankle and going upwards until she reaches her thigh.

Soon, Shiki repeats the same process with another leg. When she finishes washing her prized possession and puts the sponge away, she takes the shower head into her hand and turns it on.

When the dark-haired woman rinses her body, she can feel that while Shiki handles the current task, her palm also moves as if it tries to memorize the shape of her body.

Soon, after Shiki turns off the water and hangs the shower head back to its place, she leaves her partner’s side to look for one specific item.

A few seconds later, Akira immediately closes her eyes as something fluffy lands on her head.

However, just before she opens her mouth, Shiki starts drying her hair and, eventually, her body with a white towel.


Several minutes have passed. After Shiki reaches her bed while carrying Akira wrapped in the towel, she drops her on it.

Akira closes her eyes and lets out a whimper as the bed creaks under the weight that was dropped on it.

However, after she sits and opens her eyes, she immediately lowers her eyes and fixates them on the newly thrown item at her.

Meanwhile, Shiki only smiles at how Akira picks and studies a white, oversized shirt. “What is it with you? Put it on.”

After a brief pause, Akira removes the towel and starts dressing up while giving her partner a questioning look and asking her in a humble tone. “Why are you doing this?”

“Have you forgotten already? You are mine.” Shiki proudly declares.

Lastly, the dark-haired woman adds before turning her back and heading to the bathroom. “Just behave nicely until I’ll return.”

As soon as the red-eyed swordsman leaves, Akira gets up and looks around the apartment.

After investigating for a while, the silver-haired woman notices that the door is locked, and no matter how hard she looks, she cannot find the keys.

Yet, Akira remembers that even if this apartment was unlocked, it’s wiser to stay inside for tonight.

After all, Rein users or other feral types, who are thirsty not only for blood, infested Toshima’s streets. So, at the moment, someone as defenseless as her running around in nothing more than a long white shirt is a perfect prey for a hungry beast.

Besides, despite for whatever reason Shiki took her in, it’s also a safe shelter from wind and rain.

Either way, Shiki’s sword is also missing or maybe she just hides it well.

“Does she really carries it with her anywhere she goes? That stupid woman…” Akira mutters while resting her chin on her palm and returns to the bedroom.


More time has passed. But for now, Akira peacefully slumbers while lying on the side and curling under the blanket.

However, she softly groans and slowly opens her eyes when something soft and big presses against her back and rests her arm on her.

For sure, it doesn’t take long to figure out who is this pesky person who pushes her to the edge of the bed until she nearly touches the wall and parts her legs with her pushed knee.

‘Just when did she get here?’ Akira wonders, while being embraced by this large feline.

On the other hand, perhaps it’s better not to push her luck and check whether Shiki is asleep or just playing around.

More importantly, this is the first time in her life when someone shares their body warmth with her. Although, it’s nothing that she really minds.

Besides, this is the first time in a while that she can rest without fear that someone may attack her. Or so the silver-haired woman decides as she softens her gaze and sighs.

Soon, the sound of raindrops rhythmically tapping on the window and the pouring rain outside makes her eyelids heavy and wash her grim past and pain away. In the end, the blue-eyed woman drowns in a deep sleep.

Thus, it’s Akira’s first night spent in the warm embrace of Shiki and the beginning of her taming by this woman.


Image

Notes:

❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
First of all,
Thank You so @shikiakitogainu for giving me a permission to use this lovely shikiaki yuri fanart for this story❤
Yup, it looks so gorgeous*✧ ✰ 。*
Also, if you are reading this,
Hopefully, you've enjoyed this story...
Yup, 'cos I wanted to make it like a small treat for you ( ͡ᵔ ͜ʖ ͡ᵔ )
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: When the Bloody Moon Rises (chapter 10)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Characters: Akira, Keisuke, Emma, Gwen, Shiki, Nano
Status: Completed (12 Chapters)
Rating: +18 (Smut, suggestive themes, violence)
Summary:

One day, an excellent reputation, vampire hunter Akira is falsely accused of murdering an innocent person. Fortunately, the church offers him to prove his innocence by defeating the evil vampire lord Il Re.
And thus, the silver-haired hunter sets on the new journey. Will he be able to do it?
Read and find out~
AO3 Link

Click here to read

Some time has passed. After reaching the Inner Quarters, Akira mentally prepares himself for the worst.

What if Shiki is not only disappointed in him when he lost in the Colosseum but might also lash out at him because of what he did to him earlier?

After all, who knows what hides behind the vampire’s calm face? Perhaps Shiki had, finally, enough of him, and before executing him, only gives him a false sense of comfort. The silver-haired hunter wonders as his body remains stiff and avoids looking at his partner.

Lastly, the dark-haired male opens the door to Akira’s room.


After Shiki carefully sits his partner on the bed, Akira turns his head away and lowers his gaze.

As the silver-haired male grasps the bedsheet, he addresses him. “You could have just killed me while we were in the Colosseum. So, I don’t understand why you keep wasting your time by bringing me there…”

At first, the vampire only gives him a questioning look. “What are you talking about?”

After closing his eyes and exhaling, he briefly orders. “Undress.”

As he leaves his partner’s side and starts looking for one specific item in the drawers, Akira removes his gloves and unbuttons his vest.

Soon enough, Shiki picks up a first aid kit and returns to his partner’s side.

Just before sitting down, he notices that the blue-eyed male is about to remove his underwear and gives him another command. “Keep it.”

Meanwhile, Akira only hugs his knees and keeps his hung head.

Such a behavior slowly gets on the nocturnal creature’s nerves. Nevertheless, Shiki tries to remain as patient as possible.

After he takes the silver-haired male’s hand, he examines his arm.

However, Akira’s question makes him lift his red eyes. “Why are you doing all this?”

As he fixates his eyes on the tensed silver-haired male, he listens to him further. “I don’t understand you. You saw what happened in the arena and you’re still doing this. You know, you should have spared that hunter and kept him instead of me.”

When Shiki cleans the wounds on his partner’s arm, he narrows his gaze and replies in an indifferent tone. “You mean that small fry that was nothing more than a waste of time?”

“But he was more powerful than me. So, you might have been more entertained by the SS-rank hunter than someone who is just A one at most.” The silver-haired male objects.

“That barely lasted a second? Hmph. Don’t make me laugh.” The vampire immediately responds as he puts on the medical plaster on the bruises.

As Shiki finishes treating one arm, Akira gives another one and argues. “Because you didn’t hold back against him, unlike when you fought me.”

The vampire closes his eyes and explains. “I’m not interested in weaklings that only know how to bark.”

A second later, he opens his crimson eyes while having a proud look on his face. “Besides, anyone who dares to touch what belongs to me is nothing more than disgusting insects that should be crushed.”

When Shiki finishes treating his partner’s arms, he asks him. “Show me your chest.”

As Akira sits on his knees and lowers his arms, he comments, despite feeling the vampire’s eyes on him while cleaning his bruises. “You sure care a lot for someone that you keep as food. However, you shouldn’t attach to what you eat.”

After he grasps the bedsheet and softens his gaze, he adds. “Have you ever considered what you are going to do when I’ll be dead? Are you going to hunt another prey?... Or are you going to starve yourself to death? If that is the case, then I would have to finish you first.”

Such an honest confession widens Shiki’s eyes and makes him freeze in the same spot. Yet, a second later, he gives a thrilling gaze while leaning closer and asking in nearly a purring voice. “How are you planning to do that?”

Despite being cornered and feeling the vampire’s palms on top of his, Akira swallows the saliva while keeping his determined blue eyes on him. “When I defeat you in the fight and this time I’ll make you take me seriously!”

While Shiki keeps a satisfied look on his face, he comments in a content tone. “How come you can still spit out such adorable words?”

“Hmph. Looks like I need to remind you again what happens if you keep doing that~” He adds while the flame of impatience burns in his eyes, stroking Akira’s neck.

In the end, the silver-haired male closes his eyes and sighs. “You stupid vampire… Keep doing that, and you’ll grow my desire to defeat you stronger.”

“As long as it keeps the stupid thoughts away from your head…” Shiki replies before bringing his face close to his partner’s.


A day has passed.

It is a late evening. Thus, the blue-eyed male already had a bath and changed into his gray pajamas.

Yet, he decides to stay up for a bit longer and kill some time by finishing reading the book that he picked in the library while waiting for one certain vampire to return.

Good hour has passed. No matter how long Akira kept waiting, Shiki hadn’t returned yet.

Is he busy in the arena or hunting for another prey? Who knows?… The silver-haired hunter wonders as he softens his gaze while staring at the crimson moon in the sky through the window.

Strange. Tonight, not a single star accompanies the barely visible crescent moon. On the other hand, perhaps it’s only because the new moon phase will begin soon.

Even so, Akira doesn’t like the lingering sensation of death and chillness in the air as he stares into the starless sky. But for now, he shivery respires and holds his arms.

No. Perhaps he is just cold and tired. Besides, that stupid vampire might come back soon in his true form or a panther one. So, he is on his way. That is one thing for sure. Or so the blue-eyed male convinces himself while getting up from bed and walking to the closet.

When Akira picks up the bathrobe, he widens his eyes and turns his head upon the crows’ loud crying and countless flapping wings.

“Shiki…” Akira whispers as he grasps this piece of clothing.

As soon as he puts on the bathrobe, he rushes through the door.

‘You better haven’t tried anything funny. Otherwise, I’ll finish you, you fool!’ the silver-haired male thinks as he hears his own heartbeat ringing inside his head and running in the corridor.

At that moment, he doesn’t even care if any of Shiki’s servants try to stop him. That can wait for later.

Soon, he reaches the exit gate and slams it open.


While Akira’s chest bloats and deeply breathes, he quickly looks around.

Unfortunately, the quiet leaf rustling and the streaming water are the only sounds that break the silence that surrounds this area.

Nevertheless, Akira refuses to leave.

Thus, as he lowers his head and bites his lower lip, he grasps around his heart before heading deeper into the inner courtyard.

Step after step, he approaches the familiar fountain that changes the water color upon one getting closer to it.

At first, nothing is unusual until he walks past by and notices something that freezes him in the same spot.

At that moment, Akira could only speak weakly through his trembling lips. “Shiki… What the hell happened to you?”

Apparently, the fallen nocturnal creature leans his back against the fountain’s wall while covered in blood and with his hung head without any response.

Judging from his torn in some places clothes, Shiki may fight someone who might have been out of his league.

However, it doesn’t matter if he fled away or barely won. Right now, his well-being is far more important than anything else. The blue-eyed male decides as he gets closer to his partner.

Just as Akira kneels and takes a better look at him, he nearly gets startled by the vampire slowly lifting his head and his groaning voice. “Why are you here? Go back to your room.”

For sure, just seeing Shiki’s blank stare in his dimmed crimson eyes pierces the hunter’s heart like a knife.

Suddenly, Akira grips his shoulders and lowers his head to scold him. “And to leave you like this? Are you even aware of how you sound?!”

Shiki only turns his head and closes his eyes. “If it bothers you so much, leave. I do not need your pity.”

Soon, the silver-haired male removes his hands from his partner and addresses him in a calm, but impersonal voice. “If this is what you want, it cannot be helped, then. I’ll leave you alone… But when I see you standing up and walking on your own.”

But for now, he moves away from the nocturnal creature and stands up without removing his eyes from him.

Meanwhile, Shiki cracks a bitter smile and picks up his sheathed katana. “Hmph. Have you always been that stubborn and stupid?”

As he places his hands on the handle, he relies on his trustworthy weapon as his support getting up.

Unfortunately, when the vampire leans heavily on it, his katana slips away, and he is about to fall harshly.

However, Akira’s reaction is faster, and Shiki collapses on his chest.

After wrapping his arms around his partner, the silver-haired male places his palm behind his head and softens his gaze.

As the vampire struggles in his embrace and silently groans, Akira only gently strokes his hair and comments in a worried tone. “You barely can do anything. Just how bad you’ve been injured to become like this? So, how do you expect me to abandon you and let you suffer alone?”

In the end, the silver-haired hunter temporally removes his arms from Shiki.

As he gives him a comforting look, he unbuttons a couple of buttons on his pajama shirt and exposes his shoulder and neck. “Here. You’ve used most of your energy to heal your wounds. So…”

“Don’t be a fool. Have you forgotten? I’ve already fed on you today.” The vampire backfires.

After Akira brings him close to him, he objects. “I know. However, you need it more than I do.”

When he presses Shiki’s face against the crook of his neck, he closes his eyes and explains. “And if you ignore your hunger any longer, your instincts will take you over and you’ll become a mindless beast.”

“I’ll rather die by your hand than fight and kill someone who is nothing more than a shell of his former self. As long as it will cease you from recklessly throwing your life and keep you safe, I’m ready to sin, kill or even sacrifice myself. So, do what you have to do, you stupid vampire.” Akira adds.

Such an honest confession surprises Shiki and only makes him more interested in this human.

However, instead of wasting time on unnecessary words, the nocturnal creature briefly withdraws his face before sinking his fangs into Akira’s neck, making him softly moan.

When he smells and tastes the hunter’s blood, his eyes glow in deadly bright red.

As the vampire feasts on him, Akira slowly feels drowsy, and his body grows weaker.

Nevertheless, he gathers all his remaining strength to keep Shiki in his warm embrace.

Soon enough, the nocturnal creature is about to withdraw his face.

Yet, the blue-eyed male keeps pressing his hand on his head, and as his vision darkens, he gently whispers. “Do not mind me. Just take as much as you need.”

Soon enough, Shiki gets alerted as the same palm resting on the back of his head and the surrounding arm loosens.

However, this time, he is the one who manages to catch his collapsing partner.

Even behind his poker face, he is bewildered by Akira shakily reaching for his face and placing his cold palms on his cheeks.

The silver-haired male gives him an exhausted smile. “You’re finally alright. I’m… I’m so glad. But why are you so upset? I’m just a little… a little tired. That’s all…”

Lastly, he slowly closes his blue eyes and drops his hands.

At that moment, if it wasn’t for the bleeding two spots on Akira’s neck, he would think that his human was only peacefully slumbering.

However, Shiki perfectly understands that he won’t open his eyes and call him a stupid vampire ever again.

But why? Why does he feel such a void inside him as something important and dear was snatched away from him?

More importantly, he knew already that Akira’s life was momentary, and he may have died from old age or eventually drained by him.

Yes. Shiki has accepted the harsh truth about mankind’s bitter fate. Yet, it doesn’t reduce heartache in the slightest, nor calms his howling heart.

In the end, he closes his gloomy red eyes and immediately pulls Akira into a tight hug, refusing to let him go.

A second later, his fingertips sink into the human’s soft, silver hair while he silently weeps.


A good amount of time has passed.

After the vampire touches his partner’s neck, he feels a weak and rare pulse.

Perhaps not everything is lost, then. Shiki hopefully wonders.

At first, he doubts if he should commit a taboo ritual that may give only a low chance of saving this human from being taken away by death.

More importantly, there is a high risk that Akira may become a broken doll who is not alive nor dead, only resembling his former self after slowly but painfully rejecting him.

Therefore, letting this human exit with dignity might be for the better.

But what if? What if he may accept him and become a noble creature of the night like him? Perhaps he is ready to accept him. No, there is no may. He has to. That human already has proven himself more times than needed. Shiki ponders as he brushes the hair from Akira’s face.

Lastly, with nothing to lose, he reveals his sharp fangs again, and they penetrate the blue-eyed male’s skin.


Suddenly, Akira widens his eyes and gasps as something hot flows inside his blood vessels.

“Shiki… what are you?- It hurts… It hurts!” The silver-haired male weakly speaks up in a scared voice while his face is paralyzed in fear.

However, as the unbearable heat spreads all over his body, he pushes the vampire away and falls while whimpering.

Meanwhile, Shiki only carefully observes how Akira curls into a ball and grasps his throat while desperately gulping the air.

No matter how it is difficult for the dark-haired male to resist the urge to shake his partner and make him get a hold of himself, he understands he cannot interface and should only patiently wait until it’s over.

Soon enough, every muscle in the hunter’s body trembles and twitches as his skin and hair become pale as paper.

More so, as he painfully groans, screeches, and droll, his eye color slowly switches from ice blue to bloody red eyes, and long, sharp fangs start to grow.

In the end, Akira lets out a prolonged loud hissing and stretches his body before he completely freezes in the same spot and blacks out.

At that moment, even the crimson moon completely disappears in the sky.

Finally, Shiki kneels and makes sure that his human lies on his back.

As he brushes his palm against Akira’s cold cheek and neck, he narrows his empty, sad, red eyes and exhales.

No response, no pulse, not a single weak respiration, no nothing. That human is dead, and he killed him twice. More importantly, there is no one to blame but himself for that. Shiki thinks to himself.

“However, you were so close to succeeding…” the dark-haired male comments in a gloomy tone as he brushes his palm down to close Akira’s crimson dead eyes.

Lastly, after he places one hand behind his partner’s shoulders and another under his thighs, he stands up. Thus, Shiki carries his partner to the inner quarters.


Some time has passed.

After washing Akira in his personal bath and carefully drying him, Shiki dresses him in the white shinishozoku1 before lying him on the bed and covering him with the blanket.

The noble creature of the night understands that he should head to the catacombs and set his late partner on the journey to the netherworld without wasting time. However, deep inside, he still wishes to stay longer with him.

Even after his death, this human makes him act based on irrational emotions. The vampire wonders as he cracks a bitter-sweet smile.

However, Shiki sorrowfully narrows his gaze when he carefully strokes Akira’s cheek.

A second later, the red-eyed male covers his eyes with his palm and bites his lower lip.


A few days have passed.

It is late evening, and Shiki has spent another day in his panther form without bothering to return to his true one or leave the silver-haired male’s side.

As he rested his upper body on Akira’s chest, he remained so to this very moment.

Even when, time from time, the dark feline lifts his head and checks on him, he lowers his round ears and exhales through his nose while keeping his long tail pressed to his tensed body before narrowing his gaze and staring into the void.

However, the sudden knock on the door and the concerned voice behind it make Shiki lift his head. “Master, are you alright? You’ve locked yourself here for a few days.”

Soon, the red-eyed panther wrinkles his nose and growls like a wounded animal.

After a brief pause, the demon maid’s voice addresses him. “We understand you are still grieving over Young Master. However, you shouldn’t neglect yourself nor forget to take care of yourself just because of him. After all, he was only a human, and it’s not your fault that he died.”

Soon, another voice continues in a formal tone. “Master, please open the door. You must understand that it is difficult for us to see you upset and not letting us to help you. So, if that boy causes you so much pain, let us bury him for you. Please, just let him go already.”

Yet, after hearing these words, the panther roars and hisses to drive away anyone who dares to intrude on him.

“... Alright. We understood. We’ll come back later, Master. However, if you need anything, please let us know. Goodnight.” Another maid adds.

Soon, Shiki is left alone again, and with that, he licks his face and rests his head on Akira’s chest.


A couple of hours have passed since this restless night.

Suddenly, the black panther lifts his head and ruffles his fur upon sensing an awfully familiar dark energy.

More importantly, it’s stronger than before. There is no mistake - That Man is near, even if he wanders somewhere in the inner quarters.

But for now, the red-eyed feline jumps from the bed and becomes a liquid shadow.

A second later, Shiki reveals his true form and becomes a vampire.

However, after the vampire turns his head to the window side, he grasps his attached katana and grinds his teeth as That Man places HIS palm on the window and briefly stares into his eyes.

Soon, HE narrows HIS gaze, making the vampire slightly shrug and shake his palms.

At that moment, even if he cannot hear these words with his own ears, they ring in his head in that same monotonic, calm voice. “So, now, his soul is dyed in pitch-black? Fine. However, it’s still too early. The bud is only starting to spurt… I’ll return when the flower will fully bloom and scatter its seeds. Farewell.”

Thus, the pale figure with light hair and glowing purple eyes turns HIS back and disappears into the night.

Lastly, Shiki closes his eyes and hits the nearest wall. “… Shit. Why does HE always return to just mock me and leave?”

After he turns back, he removes the warm blanket from Akira and carefully picks him up like a wounded princess.

It doesn’t matter what HE meant by these words, the dark-haired male will try to figure it out later. However, one thing is for sure - he cannot let anyone else have somebody that only belongs to him. Therefore, he has to take Akira, where no one will reach him. Shiki decides as he leaves the room while carrying his partner.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: When the Bloody Moon Rises (chapter 9)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Characters: Akira, Keisuke, Emma, Gwen, Shiki, Nano
Status: Completed (12 Chapters)
Rating: +18 (Smut, suggestive themes, violence)
Summary:

One day, an excellent reputation, vampire hunter Akira is falsely accused of murdering an innocent person. Fortunately, the church offers him to prove his innocence by defeating the evil vampire lord Il Re.
And thus, the silver-haired hunter sets on the new journey. Will he be able to do it?
Read and find out~
AO3 Link

Click here to read

A couple of weeks have passed since Shiki started to train Akira.

Despite such a brief period, the vampire is genially impressed by how quickly his human mastered the basics of swordsmanship.

Perhaps tomorrow he’ll take Akira to the Colosseum. Besides, if any pesky fool will survive long enough, he’ll allow him to face him as supposed-to-be Il Re. Or so Shiki decides as he watches the silver-haired male slashing down the armored knight.

Within the shattering metal noise, Akira puts his katana back into the sheath, attaches to his belt, and closes his eyes.

As he turns his head and opens his calm blue eyes, he addresses Shiki. “Is that all? Or did you pick low-ranked monsters because you’ll feed on me later?”

While the dark-haired male leans against the training arena’s wall and crosses his arms, he smirks like a feline. “Unless you want it so badly.”

Sure, it’s hard to keep his serious face, but Akira decides not to let the vampire tease him, and only silently exhales while approaching him.

After a brief pause, Shiki adds. “Let’s go. You need to rest for tomorrow.”

The blue-eyed male raises his eyebrow as he follows his partner. “What are you up to this time?”

Before Shiki opens the gate, he turns his head and replies. “You’ll see by then.”

Lastly, Akira rolls his eyes and remains silent.


A second later, he turns his head and gets prompted by the vampire. “What is it? Don’t just stand there.”

After the silver-haired hunter lowers his gaze, he opens the door and steps inside.

At the very least, he expected to see the walls covered in wooden planks and lighten up with small torches across the entire corridor.

More so, Akira strangely feels comforted by the light of countless warm flames surrounding them.

Even on their way, he can hear the faith sound of the streaming water that gets louder with each step.


Certainly, he hasn’t expected to see such spacious indoor hot springs.

On top of that, modern era style one, with oak plank walls and ceiling, and a stone floor.

In the corner of the room stands a beautiful white marble statue of a woman pouring water from a pitcher.

Even the buttons on her tunic, the necklace, bracelets, and her hair accessories are made from gold.

More so, the water runs down without rest from her held pitcher to the bath, which could fit at least a group of people.

Next to the statue, there are large shelves with rolled towels resting on them, bottles of massage and aromatic oils, and lightened votive candles.

Soon, Akira remembers he might be here not for nothing. After turning his back, he asks. “Why did you bring me here?”

However, the vampire only closes his eyes and replies. “That’s a stupid question.”

When he opens his crimson eyes, his chin points at the towel shelf and commands. “Undress and put it on. Or do you need a help with that?”

At first, the silver-haired male seems to listen to his partner’s demand.

When he approaches one shelf and picks a snow-white towel, he turns his head and slightly frowns. “Then what about you? I’m not going in if you’re going to just stand there and watch.”

Instead of saying anything, Shiki gracefully gets closer like a feline.

As he holds Akira’s chin, he narrows his gaze and smirks. After all, these indignant yet questioning blue eyes entertain him.

After a brief pause, he releases his partner’s chin and turns his back. Just before taking his leave, he replies. “Just make sure that I find you in the bath.”

In the end, Akira only closes his eyes and exhales.

No matter what that stupid vampire has in mind, it’s useless wasting time trying to guess what he has planned. Moreover, he will become bored quickly if he continues playing by the rules he has created. The blue-eyed swordsman decides as he unbuttons his black vest.


Some time has passed.

Akira is completely at ease in the hot spring, where the water seems to wash away all his troubles and stress.

At this point, he doesn’t even care to fall asleep or slide to the center of the bath and drift to wherever the current will take him.

Finally, he closes his calm blue eyes and listens to the streaming water while forgetting that Shiki has left.

Several minutes have passed.

Suddenly, Akira widens his eyes and sits by the sound of something poured into the water.

After he turns around, he notices Shiki only having a towel wrapped around his waist and holding an empty green bottle.

He was not confused by the dark-haired man standing over him, but by the spreading scent of lavender in the room.

“What is it with you?” Shiki asks before walking down the stairs and joining his partner.

Despite Akira moving further from him, the vampire keeps sitting closer to him.

After getting chased like this for a good circle, he gives up and allows the red-eyed vampire to sit close to him.

But for now, Shiki crosses his arms and exhales while his human looks away.

After a minute of awkward pause, the silver-haired male lowers his shoulders and turns his head towards his partner.

Just as he opens his mouth, he notices Shiki is peacefully sleeping. Or so Akira can assume from the vampire not responding to him.

In any case, it’s his first time seeing the fearsome ruler of the night exposing himself like this in his true form.

More so, Akira feels how the blood rushes to his cheeks by observing the slumbering nocturnal creature.

No matter how hard for him to admit it, he slowly starts admiring how a ruthless creature like Shiki reminds him of a beautiful, fragile porcelain doll with pale skin and silky hair and how even a single wrong touch could shatter him into tiny pieces.

At this point, the vampire might be easily mistaken for one by his doll-like face with the pretty eyelashes.

Unfortunately, when Akira lowers his curious blue eyes on his partner’s chest, he instinctively grasps his own and softens his gaze.

Apparently, there is a scar in the middle of his chest, as if he was stabbed by the enormous blade in the past.

As his fingertips are about to touch the vampire’s scar, he gets alerted by Shiki opening his eyes.

A moment later, the water splashes as Shiki grabs his wrist and pulls him close.

Even when his body is pressed against his partner’s and his hand thrown over his shoulder, Akira cannot comprehend how he ends up in this position.

However, the vampire’s voice makes him lift his head. “What were you thinking of doing?”

At that moment, the silver-haired male can only stare with his big blue eyes at Shiki, looking at him with his stoic face and waiting for his answers.

Soon, Akira returns to his senses.

After he closes his eyes and shakes his head, he places his palms on his partner’s chest and gently pushes him away.

To his surprise, Shiki only silently observes him as an annoyed feline whose sleep is disturbed for no reason.

After the blue-eyed hunter leans against the bath’s wall and lowers his gaze, he comments in a slightly gloomier voice. “I don’t understand… Vampires are known for their instant wound healing. You weren’t supposed to have that scar. So, why do you have it? Who done this to you?”

“Hmph. It shouldn’t concern you.” The vampire backfires as he crosses his arms and narrows his gaze.

Yet, Akira immediately responds while giving a questioning look. “Does it have anything to do with That Man you mentioned once?”

It makes Shiki widen his eyes and grasp around his heart area by remembering HIM and HIS indifferent changing color eyes looking down on him while his bloody palm twitched.

Meanwhile, the silver-haired male closes his eyes and sighs. “So, I was right…”

As he opens his eyes, he adds. “Just whom in the world have you fought? It’s not an ordinary monster, right?”

For sure, it’s the last drop patience of Shiki’s patience.

Suddenly, he corners his prey while his crimson eyes glow and silently growling at him.

Despite the nocturnal creature’s intimidation, Akira keeps his poker face without removing his eyes from him.

After a brief pause, he addresses the vampire. “Do as you wish. However, weren’t you the one who told me not to let the emotions control you? At least practice what you preach.”

When Shiki places his hand on the side of his human’s neck and slides it down, he rests it on his shoulder.

Meanwhile, Akira voluntarily turns his head and exposes the other side of his neck, impatiently waiting for the vampire to sink his fangs.

Besides, it’s not the first time when Shiki feeds on him. That’s why he has learned to make himself comfortable while Shiki feeds on him.

Despite that, he still cannot bring himself to look at how the vampire is about to sink his fangs, as if it were watching how a nurse is about to draw blood from him.

However, he is alright with Shiki feeding on him. At least he can be reassured that this stupid vampire is safe and not recklessly throwing his life.

Yet, he is still not fully get used to by Shiki’s fangs piercing his skin each time. Akira thinks to himself while mentally preparing for another ritual, which has become an inevitable part of his routine.

Meanwhile, such a gesture thrills the nocturnal creature, and he delightfully narrows his gaze.

“You are something else, Akira…” Shiki remarks in a purring-like voice while holding his partner’s upper arm with his other hand.

Lastly, the silver-haired male lets out a shivery sigh and closes his eyes when the vampire licks his neck.

“What I just told you earlier?” Akira whispers upon understanding that he has become a toy for this large feline. Nevertheless, he sinks his fingertips into Shiki’s hair and starts stroking them.

‘You stupid vampire…’ He wants to add but keeps it in his mind and closes his eyes.


It is the evening of another day.

Tonight, Shiki is supposed to show something important. Whatever it is, that vampire takes his time for what he refers to as preparations.

Either way, it must be something worth all that hype, then. Or so Akira decides as he checks the time on his pocket watch.

However, the sudden knock on his bedroom door and the polite voice behind it get his attention. “Are you awake, Young Master? Master Shiki would like to see you.”

“Yes. I’m coming.” The silver-haired male replies as he fixes his shirt.

After he opens the door, the demon maid with curly red hair closes her eyes and nods. “Please follow me.”

Thus, he closes the door behind him and follows this demon.


After a while, they leave the inner quarters and reach the same rusty elevator with metal bars that take them to the training arena.

When Akira expects the elevator to stop on the second floor, he is surprised that it’s still going up while the redhead maid remains calm.

When she notices the confused hunter, she gives a slightly concerned look. “Is everything alright, Young Master?”

A second later, she closes her green eyes and smiles. “Please do not worry. Just a little bit and we’ll be there.”

Upon the sound of the squeaking gears and rustling chains, the old elevator stops, and the metal bar door slides to let out the passengers.

After walking for a few minutes in the corridor, this couple is greeted by the spiral stone staircase lighting up.

For now, the demon maid politely points at it with her palm. “This way, Young Master.”

Meanwhile, he feels as having no choice but to follow the redhead until they reach the top of it. Or at least Akira believes so.

However, the silver-haired male stops climbing the stairs and widens his eyes as someone gently pulls his sleeve.

When he turns his head, the demon maid addresses him. “Where are you going, Young Master? That is the guests’ seats, and this is not where should we go.”

As she turns to the door next to her, she knocks on it. “Master, I’ve brought Young Master Akira as you asked. May we come in, please?”

After receiving the permission, the red-haired maid opens the door and allows Akira to go first.

After he takes a deep breath, he enters without knowing what to expect.


Upon observing his surroundings, Akira realizes he might be in the special room of the Colosseum reserved for important people.

After all, the tall throne facing the other side of the seats is the proof along the hanging opened curtains.

A second later, the vampire speaks up while sitting on the throne. “You can leave now.”

Meanwhile, the redhead bows before taking her leave and closing the door. “As you wish, sir.”

As Shiki stands up and leaves the throne, he receives an avalanche of questions from his partner. “You didn’t bring me here for nothing, did you? What did you want to show me so badly?”

“Come here and you’ll see.” The vampire replies.

No matter how much Akira doesn’t like being ordered by this arrogant fellow, he understands it is better to listen to him.

After he gets to the end of the room, he leans on the stone parapet.

For sure, from here, he can see the entire battle arena as it is on his palm.

More so, from the fresh blood traces on the walls and several weapons lying on the ground, he can guess that someone met their unfortunate fate recently.

Soon, he turns toward Shiki while resting his palms on the parapet and raising his eyebrow. “Is this what you wanted to show me? Or do you want just to show-off before you’ll kill another challenger?”

As the vampire steps closer, he closes his eyes and briefly explains. “Only if anyone lives long enough to fall under Il Re’s blade.”

After he opens his crimson eyes, he adds. “Tonight, you’ll be Il Re.”

“What do you mean?” The silver-haired male asks as he leans on the parapet.

However, Shiki remains calm and backfires. “Which part you do not understand? I’m lending you the Il Re title until you defeat your challenger.”

A second later, he takes Akira’s hand and adds. “Get up. A new challenger should show up any time. So, greet him properly.”

After the blue-eyed hunter allows the vampire to help him stand up, he gets to the throne and makes himself comfortable.

Yet, his guard is caught off by Shiki transforming into a liquid shadow that becomes a black panther with red eyes and a katana attached to his belt.

As Akira watches, the smug feline approaches him and sits next to him.

Lastly, Shiki wraps his tail around him and fixates his crimson eyes on the arena.

So, is he really taking this that seriously, huh? The silver-haired male wonders while staring at the serious panther and having a strange feeling of sitting as a new ruler of the demonic castle.

However, the loud rustling chains and the creaking gate alert Akira.

As the large gate lifts, the aloof challenger enters the arena.

It’s a man in his fifties with tied long curly dark hair and a beard wearing a long sangria color coat, crimson pants, and leather gloves.

More so, it’s one of the veteran vampire hunters, which Akira saw a few times in the Hunter Guild.

Even if hunters like him rarely visit the guild, each time they return, they bring an impressive S-rank or higher rank-worth monster with them.

After that man reaches the center of the arena, he picks up the bullwhip and points it at Akira.

While he keeps an unpleasant look on his face, he addresses the ruler of the castle. “Come out and face me, you monster! Or do you intend to hide like a coward?”

However, when the hunter takes a better look at the silver-haired male, he widens his eyes and lowers his whip. “It’s you!”

For sure, that man’s voice alone nearly makes Akira jump from his seat.

A second later, the veteran hunter asks. “What are you doing here? I come to defeat Il Re and not a stupid brat that cannot hold a weapon. Where is he, boy?”

Despite the dark-haired man’s intimidation, the blue-eyed swordsman keeps his new role and answers in a strict tone. “You are talking to one right now. However, I must congratulate you for making it this far.”

The hunter only cracks a smile. “Tsk. Don’t make me laugh. On the other hand… Perhaps the luck is on my side, after all. So, I’ll take that vampire’s head along with the traitor’s.”

Meanwhile, Shiki studies his human, and when he finishes his speech, he observes the challenger while narrowing his gaze.

Lastly, that man points at Akira. “Very well. I’ll take you down if that is the only way to summon that bastard!”

At first, the blue-eyed male checks on Shiki and gives him a confused look.

Yet, the noble creature of the night only keeps a straight face while exhaling through his nose.

At this moment, Akira understands he has to do what he has to do. Thus, after he stands up and takes a deep breath, he gets close to the parapet and jumps into the arena.

Surprisingly, he manages to land safely.

After he fixes his posture, he picks up the katana and points the tip of the blade at his opponent.

Meanwhile, the hunter keeps a proud look on his face and stretches his bullwhip.

Thus, the battle starts with Akira charging at his opponent.


However, the dark-haired man’s reaction is faster. And he unleashes several lower whip cracks.

Fortunately, Akira avoids each strike by jumping back. However, a strike after a strike, he nearly loses his balance.

Meanwhile, the veteran hunter takes to his advantage. Suddenly, he unleashes a powerful strike that hits his target, making him groan.

Yet Akira manages to kneel safely while his face twists in pain.

As long as he has the weapon in his hands, he can still fight. Besides, even if he cannot see right now, he’ll show Shiki that he won’t go down that easily. Or so the silver-haired male thinks while his blue eyes burn with determination.

Soon, Akira grips the handle with both hands and rushes at his opponent before releasing a diagonal slash.

That boy already lost. The hunter wonders as he cracks a mocking smile and jumps back.

A second later, he picks several knives from the bag attached to his belt and throws them at his opponent.

Suddenly, Akira twists the blade, reflecting most of the knives. After the hunter’s blades reach the ground, he uses the upper strike.

Yet, his attack is blocked by the older male’s stretched whip.

Just from what this whip is made of? The silver-haired male wonders as he widens his eyes and grinds his teeth by seeing how his sword doesn’t even scratch the enemy’s weapon.

“What’s the matter, boy? Did you chew more than you could swallow?” The veteran hunter mocks while unleashing another strike.

Unfortunately, Akira has no time to dodge the attack. Upon it slashes at him, he closes his eyes and gasps. A second later, he groans as he receives a kick in his guts. Yet, no matter what, he holds onto his katana.

Even while he roughly pants and leans on his trustworthy weapon, he keeps his ice-cold blue eyes on his opponent.

Meanwhile, Shiki only observes this fight while noting for himself what Akira’s flaws he should work on harder.

However, as the crimson-eyed panther lifts his paw, he freezes on the same spot by hearing his partner’s voice. “DO NOT EVEN DARE TO INTERFACE!”

At that moment, Akira shakily leans while grasping the handle of his katana with both hands.

While his lips tremble, he adds. “I’m not done yet… I can still fight!”

Surely, these words sparkle the excitement in the panther’s eyes.

After the dark-haired hunter bends, he grabs his throat and lifts him, making their eyes meet. “This is where you’re wrong.”

Yet Akira refuses to let go of his trustworthy weapon and gathers his remaining strength for the final attack.

In the end, the veteran hunter catches the naked blade with his gloved hand and throws it away, and he comments. “Too bad that the guild wants you alive. It can’t be helped then…”

After he finishes his speech, he aggressively tosses Akira to the ground and stomps on his back a few times.

A second later, he sends a powerful kick to the silver-haired male’s side, making him grunt and curl into a ball.

However, as he kneels and is about to tie his opponent’s hands behind his back, he immediately lifts his head by the panther’s roaring.

Apparently, Shiki jumps through the stone parapet and gracefully lands on his fours.

While the deadly feline approaches the arrogant human with his lowered tail, his red eyes flare with rage.

“The hell?… Did you finally decide to avenge your master?” The dark-haired male addresses the large feline.

However, Shiki only bares his sharp fangs and growls.

Just as the hunter stands up and aims his whip at the feral beast, he widens his eyes when the panther becomes into a liquid shadow and disappears. “What a?-”

Suddenly, the sound of the tearing flesh echoes, and the hunter lets out an agonizing scream.

As the blood splashes like a fountain from the hunter’s back, he collapses.

For now, the large feline bites into the same arm that had cracked a whip and tears it apart.

Meanwhile, Akira only leans on his elbow and silently observes how the large feline spits his opponent’s limb and the screaming hunter, begging to be spared.

However, Shiki goes for another limb as well.

The silver-haired male understands he has to stop the blood-thirsty predator before he’ll be overtaken by his blind wrath. Or so Akira decides as he shakily stands up, picks up his trustworthy weapon, and puts it back into the sheath.

Meanwhile, the black panther places his bloody paw on the fallen man and sinks his fangs into his nape.

One sudden move and Shiki rips down his cervical spine, silencing the dark-haired man once and for all.

Just before he starts tearing apart the corpse, he receives a hit by the handle into his head. “Enough!”

For sure, it gets the large feline’s attention, and he wrinkles his nose while hissing at Akira.

However, the beast’s threat doesn’t affect the blue-eyed swordsman, and he narrows his ice-cold gaze.

While Akira attaches the katana to his belt, the panther spreads his legs and lowers his back while fixating his eyes on him.

Despite that, he scolds the feline. “He is dead already… Just look at yourself! You are nothing more than a feral animal! Yes, I lost. So, what? It was my mistake to fight someone who is clearly more superior…”

After a brief, he turns his back to him. “Do as you wish. Kill me or whatever you want to do with me. I don’t care…”

When he clenches his hands into fists, he lowers his shoulders and exhales. “I do not want to see a feral animal playing with his food. I’m leaving.”

Meanwhile, Shiki lowers his ears and licks his face while keeping his lowered tail close to him.

But for now, the panther stands and approaches the hunter from behind.

Soon, he nibs on his partner’s sleeve and pulls it.

Such a gesture makes the silver-haired swordsman turn his head.

After noticing the large feline keeping his lowered ears and staring at him with big red eyes, Akira softens his gaze and sighs. “You stupid cat…”

Just before he lands his palm on Shiki, he immediately withdraws it when the panther transforms into a liquid shadow.

Soon enough, the blue-eyed swordsman sighs as he becomes into a certain vampire he knows.

Yet, when Akira notices a strangely sleepy look on Shiki’s face, he realizes it may not end well.

Instead of saying anything, he remains silent while Shiki wraps one arm around him and brings him close to him.

Even when the dark-haired male moves his arm around his shoulders while another one is on his hips, Akira only fixates his blue eyes on him.

After Shiki lifts his partner, he checks on him with a content expression and addresses him. “What’s wrong? I’ll just need to see your wounds.”

Lastly, the red-eyed vampire carries Akira as a wounded princess.


Notes:

First of all,
I want to thank for one amazing twitter artist - Kuo for such a gorgeous vampire!Shiki and hunter!Akira fanart♥(✿ฺ´∀`✿ฺ)ノ
It just... too pretty and cute❤
And Thank You for letting to use it on this story❤
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: I’ll Never Return… Chapter 4
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Characters: Original Male Character, Shiki, Akira
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (4 chapters)

Summary: [This story was made as entry for November’s month Aarinfantasy Writing Challenge.]
[This story takes time during Bitter Sweet and after it. However, it can be read as a stand-alone story]
One average student barely managed to settle down in the new place. However, everything has changed when a couple of officers frame him and use him as a bribe to the most powerful man in the country. What terrors awaits Shiro in the hell which he was brought, and will he live long enough to survive it? Read and find out~
AO3 Link


Click here to read

A week has passed since Shiro’s training began.

And the gray-haired young man already shows significant results compared to the first day he was brought here.

That’s right, from volunteering to perform the basic tasks, such as cleaning the office or running errands, to navigate without becoming lost.

However, Captain Akira still does not allow him to do the paperwork and only lets him observe.

‘So, the captain still doesn’t trust me enough yet?’ Shiro wonders as he closes his eyes and sighs while hugging the documents.

“However, I wonder what Akira-san could mean by wanting to show me something important.” The gray-eyed secretary murmurs as he picks up a silver pocket watch.

After checking the time and closing the watch, he adds. “In any case, I have to hurry and let him review these papers first.”

But for now, Shiro heads to Akira’s office.


Some time has passed.

After a long walk in the corridor, a couple of secretaries arrive at the iron gate, which Shiro has never seen before.

For some reason, his guts telling him he should turn back and leave.

Despite that, before opening the gate, Akira turns his head and addresses him. “Let’s go.”

No matter how Shiro doesn’t want to go, he understands that he will only get scolded by his senior if he objects.

After he lowers his gaze, he nods. “Yes.”

Even upon entering and taking the first steps into the staircase to the basement, Shiro is already tense.

Just when he thought nothing will beat the intense and cold atmosphere of the office building, he is proven wrong again.

At least by a miracle, Shiro eventually got used to working there as if it was any other job he could imagine.

More importantly, he could still see the daylight and the life on the surface through the office windows and feel like he was in the living world.

However, as he stares into cold, gray concrete walls lighten up with naked light bulbs, he feels like going closer to the gateway to the netherworld.

At this point, it is difficult for him to distinguish which is louder - his heartbeat or the echoing footsteps.

More so, Shiro cannot comprehend how Akira is unaffected by the unwelcoming atmosphere.

‘Perhaps it’s only in my mind. What if the captain only wants me to show me where is the archive? That’s right, there shouldn’t be any reason to be afraid, right?’ Shiro ponders while shrugging and staying close to the military secretary.

After this couple reaches the end, a metal bar door greets them.

When the younger secretary takes a step back, he lands on his bottom and whimpers.

For sure, it makes Akira to turn his head. After he closes his blue eyes, he sighs. “Please be careful.”

While Shiro rests his palms on the stone stairs and tries to get up, he asks. “Sir, where are you taking me? Please… I didn’t do anything wrong. Even if I did, please forgive me!”

Yet, Akira only facepalms and backfires in his usual calm voice. “What are you talking about? If you are going to change me temporarily, then I must prepare you so that you won’t get confused, even for this task.”

As the reserved secretary opens the door, Shiro nods. “Yes…”


Suddenly, the gray-haired male straightens his back upon the door closing behind him.

He follows the military secretary down the dark corridor, feeling goosebumps from the chill air.

More so, the only noise that kills the eery silence is their footsteps. At some point, Shiro can even swear that he can sense the Death itself walking beside them.

Upon reaching the end of the corridor, the gray-eyed secretary notices a pair of guards stationed to the left, standing watch over a secured door.

Even if they are standing still without a single movement, he understands that a single wrong gesture or breath and these men may kill anyone in sight.

‘Just what kind of place is this?’ Shiro ponders.

When Akira approaches the security guards, they salute the military secretary. After they move aside, they open door the door and nod.

Without further ado, he places his hand behind Shiro’s back and gently pushes him forward.

Of course, the gray-eyed secretary has no time for hesitation and enters the protected room.


There’s so little light that only the closing door gap illuminates the room. Even so, they are not alone.

The sound of the rustling chains and the faith moaning with the weak breathing of someone already gives bad shivers down his spine.

Yet, upon the clicking switch, this place lightens up, revealing its form.

Suddenly, Shiro widens his eyes.

As he shakily covers his mouth with his gloved palm, he whispers while leaning against the wall near the exit door that supports his body. “Goodness, gracious me… Where am I?”

Apparently, there is a man in chains wearing torn clothes that resemble the uniform of the recently formed rebel organization. Even through the holes in his tattered outfit, there are visible bruises.

Yet, he shows no signs of life and keeps his hung head.

Meanwhile, Akira walks towards the wrapped water hose hung on the wall.

After the military secretary takes it into his hands and aims at the prisoner, he gazes at Shiro with his ice-cold blue eyes. “Come here.”

Of course, the gray-eyed male’s fear has overtaken his frozen body. However, even in such a state, he knows he is not in a position to disobey Captain Akira.

Shiro heard the talk among the soldiers or even high-ranked generals about how those who dared not follow Akira’s orders or hurt him may face the commander’s merciless judgment.

He also heard Shiki’s personal secretary might be secretly in charge and using the commander as his puppet while whispering to him how to run a country. However, that is only an unproven rumor.

Besides, Shiro noticed the captain is the only person who is not afraid of Shiki while genially believing in him or has never questioned his decisions.

Either way, the gray-eyed secretary forces himself to approach his senior.

After he gets close to the level, he grips it. Unfortunately, no matter how hard he tries to move, it remains still.

“Sir, it stuck. It… it doesn’t move, no matter what I do.” Shiro explains while placing his foot on the wall for a better grip.

Meanwhile, Akira closes his eyes and sighs. “You are turning in the wrong direction.”

“I… I see!” the younger secretary responds.

Soon enough, a powerful stream of freezing water splashes at the prisoner and makes him scream in pain.

“It’s enough. Turn it off!” The military secretary orders him.

This time, Shiro manages to turn off the hose in seconds.

But for now, he lowers his arms and shakes his hands.

Yet, he immediately fixes his posture upon Akira’s strict voice. “You’re finally waking up? Good.”

As the soaked man trembles like a leaf, he closes his eyes and begs. “Please forgive me! I do not know anything! I AM INNOCENT, I SWEAR!”

After Akira tosses the water hose, he backfires while keeping his stoic demeanor. “Is this all you have to say?”

A second later, he turns his head toward Shiro. “Do you see the tool table over there? Please bring me the bullwhip.”

“Y-yes, sir!” The gray-eyed secretary nods and rushes to the end of the room.

Even so, Shiro is confused by such a variety of weaponry. Also, who knows what else is hidden in these rusty metal drawers?

When he picks the first weapon in sight, he hopes that this is what the captain wants.

After he handles a black leather whip, Akira silently nods and asks him while pointing at the exhausted prisoner. “Before we begin, what’s this?”

Shiro gives a questioning look. “Eh?… I don’t quite understand your question, sir.”

However, Akira only closes his eyes and crosses his arms.

After a brief pause, the gray-haired secretary clenches his palms into fists and answers. “Er, a rebel?”

Suddenly, he receives a slap across his face and the captain’s unfriendly reply. “Wrong.”

While Shiro carefully touches his hurt cheek, he nervously bites his lower lip and gives another answer. “A criminal?”

Once again, the room echoes with another harsh hit and Akira’s calm voice. “Try again.”

For now, Shiro shakily closes his eyes and shrugs. “A very bad person?”

Akira only exhales and politely asks. “Is there any other person among us? Please show me because I don’t see anybody aside from us.”

At that moment, Shiro can feel how tense his body is.

However, just as he lifts his arm and points at the chained struggling man, he nearly jumps from the same spot by the cracking whip and that man whimpering.

A second later, Akira scolds the prisoner. “Did you get permission to speak? No? So, stay quiet.”

“S-sir, don’t you think that is too much?” the gray-eyed male asks after nervously swallowing the saliva.

“What are you talking about? Shiro, let me ask you something - what will you do if your crops are being destroyed by the bugs?”

After briefly lowering his gaze, he lifts his gray eyes and replies. “… I would get rid of them or hire who could do it for me, sir.”

“Correct. So, what is the difference between a pest and that man?” Akira speaks and stretches the whip.

Yet, Shiro objects. “But, sir, he is a living person even if he did something wrong.”

In the end, Akira patiently explains. “Wrong. Both are nothing more than insects. One by its nature, while the other one by going against the commander and committing severe crimes. That’s why you should crush them without feeling bad for them. Do insects scream in pain when you kill them? So, let them be while you eliminate these parasites one by one.”

But for now, the blue-eyed secretary adds. “Stand back. As the secretary of the most powerful man in the country, you should never taint your white gloves or uniform with insects fluids.”

After Shiro takes a few steps back, he covers his ears and closes his eyes.

When Akira notices his subordinate’s cowardly behavior, he narrows his gaze. “So, this is how it is…”

Lastly, he approaches the exit door and leaves the room while carrying his trustworthy weapon.

At that moment, Shiro is left alone in the room with a suffering man without knowing what the captain has planned.

Soon, Akira returns. However, he is not alone.

Apparently, the same security guards are behind his back.

After he turns his head, he briefly orders them. “Hold him and make sure that he won’t look away.”.

The guards only nod in synchronicity and follow the command. “Yes, sir.”

Shiro gasps as one man presses his body against him and locks his arms, making sure that he won’t escape.

Such a raw force scares the gray-eyed male, but he understands he cannot fight back on well-trained soldiers.

But for now, as another guard grasps his face and lifts his head, Shiro cannot turn his head.

Lastly, his heart drops to his heels upon hearing Akira’s impersonal voice before he cracks the whip. “Please watch carefully how you should treat the insects.”


Just the sound of the cutting flesh and the prisoner’s screams and cries for help already makes Shiro shiver.

No matter how he instinctively attempts to close his eyes or at least turn his head away, he is forced to witness how the whip gracefully dances in Akira’s hand and tears the prisoner’s skin.

When the gray-eyed male shakily breathes, his skin becomes as pale as a sheet of paper.

Soon, Shiro barely holds back from gagging and throwing out as the piece of the tortured prisoner’s piece of flesh hits the floor.

However, he swallows back the vomit instead of throwing it out and dirtying his and soldiers’ uniforms.

It’s disgusting. It’s wrong. How and why humans are so cruel to each other? Even wild predators are more humane to their caught prey. So, why? Why?! Shiro wonders while doing his best not to cry and feeling the acidic after-taste in his mouth.

Eventually, he cannot remove his eyes from the messed-up view in front of him.

At this point, it’s like watching an awful train wreck. Both are terrifying things, but you are so helpless that all you can do is stare.

In this case, dealing with death and deciding who is guilty and who is not is just a part of the gray routine in the military office.

Even the guards that keep Shiro in his place to observe the captain delivering the punishment to the rebel, as it is nothing new to them.

And these are the same men and women who, after a long day, return to their homes and leave their uniform, can laugh and hug their loved ones, and live an average life like they do not commit these atrocities against humanity… The gray-haired male realizes.

More importantly, the people cherish and respect the military as their heroes because they only see them as protectors of the country, giving them a fake sense of security, without realizing that behind the neat and glamorous uniform, they act like demons.

It’s cruel. However, there is nothing that Shiro can do about this corrupted system nor overturn the ruthless regime.

After all, it’s already decided for him that he is nothing more than another cog in the machine that must live up to someone’s ideals. Shiro thinks as he watches Akira pick his sword from the sheath and cut the prisoner’s life thread.


Some time has passed.

Even after leaving the basement floor, Shiro still cannot comprehend what he had to witness.

But for now, the gray-eyed male finishes washing his face with lukewarm tap water.

As he stares into his reflection in the bathroom mirror, he wipes his face and notices how slightly the colors have returned to his cheeks.

However, that distant gaze in his empty eyes and pale skin remains.

After Shiro closes his eyes and slaps his cheeks, he convinces himself to hurry. After all, he doesn’t want to make the captain wait.


After a while, a couple of secretaries are on their way to the library.

However, only the military secretary’s hit on his head returns Shiro to his senses.

“Please pay attention. Do you know who is in front of you?” Akira reminds him as he slightly frowns.

A second later, the military secretary turns to the commander. After he closes his blue eyes, he lowers his head. “Please excuse me for my disciple’s behavior, sir.”

Yet, Shiro lowers his gaze and murmurs. “I’m sorry…”

Meanwhile, Shiki studies the spacing young man and cracks a smile.

A second later, he addresses his loyal subordinate. “He looks different today. What did you do?”

While Akira keeps his straight back, he honestly responds. “I’ve shown him how he should deal with anyone who dares to go against you, sir.”

“Why?” the commander raises his eyebrow.

Just before the blue-eyed secretary opens his mouth, Shiki interrupts him. “I’ve asked you to train to become your substitute, isn’t it?”

“That’s right! And today I’ve only introduced one of his future duties, sir.” Akira immediately answers.

Yet, the dark-haired male only crosses his arms. “I’m asking you again - Why?”

At first, such a question briefly confused Akira, yet he confesses. “To reduce as much as possible the workload for you if I won’t be able to be by your side. You already carry too much responsibility on your shoulders. That’s why I must prepare someone worthy to serve you.”

These words spark Shiki’s crimson eyes with excitement, but he keeps a proud face while stepping closer to his subordinate. “Hmph. Is that so?”

As he keeps his arms behind his back, he adds. “Are you doubting my power?”

Akira only shakes his head. “No, sir.”

After a brief pause, he places his palm around his heart area and explains with a firm determination. “However, it’s my duty to prepare him for all situations and not to embarrass you by his lack of skills or improper behavior. I know it might be selfish of me. How else I will rest at night by knowing that I didn’t give my best to train him to assist you any time?”

Meanwhile, Shiro silently exhales while holding his arm.

So, does being humane and valuing human life count as a weakness and a bother? The gray-eyed secretary wonders.

In the end, he realizes that he may disappoint Akira by fearing to raise his hand against anybody and not being an excellent secretary. Shiro thinks as he closes his eyes.

But for now, Shiki keeps his poker face. While he holds his chin, he narrows his gaze. “Is that the only thing that concerns you?”

At that moment, Akira loses the gift of speech.

Yet, the commander places his palms on his subordinate’s shoulders.

Such a gesture makes the military secretary widen his blue eyes.

However, he only listens to the reassuring words. “You worry too much. If you won’t be able to carry on your duties, I’ll personally punish anyone who dare to stand in my way. I asked you only to prepare a substitute secretary that will assist me. Nothing more, nothing less.”

As Akira softens his gaze, he nods. “I understand.”

Meanwhile, Shiro only listens to their conversation. Right now, he even lifts his head and hopefully stares at them.

Yet, he isn’t sure if he should be grateful for the commander willing to take this task or feel guilty for exposing his weak side.

Either way, it is still a miracle that he was spared again.

Even if he might not directly inflict damage or kill people, working on the documents may still decide who may or may not live.

Despite that, knowing that he won’t need to see anyone suffering or stain his hands, strangely relieved Shiro as a huge boulder was pushed from his chest.

Lastly, Shiki removes his hands from Akira’s shoulders and addresses him. “Either way, I’ll wait for you in my office.”

As his gaze moves toward Shiro, he orders the younger secretary. “And you. You are dismissed for today.”

“Y-yes, sir!” the gray-eyed male responds. Just before leaving, he bows while checking that his cap won’t fall this time.


A month has passed.

Finally, the important meeting is over, and Shiro can deliver revisited documents to the commander.

However, on his way to the commander’s office, he nearly drops the papers upon noticing Shiki carrying Akira in his arms like a wounded princess and rapidly approaching him.

After taking a better look, the first thing that catches Shiro’s eye is the knife inside the captain’s shoulder and how his uniform jacket slowly soaks in blood.

When Akira shakily grasps around the stabbed area, his chest shakily bloats, and he painfully narrows his gaze.

Lastly, he closes his blue eyes and turns his head away.

Meanwhile, it’s the first time Shiro sees the preserved military secretary in such a state.

Who could do this to him, and how it happened? It can’t be the commander’s work, can it? The gray-haired secretary wonders.

However, his further thoughts are interrupted by Shiki’s strict orders. “Why are you standing here? Fetch medical assistance and summon whoever can attend to wounds to my office, and tell them to escort the traitor to the interrogation room. Immediately!”

Without a second thought, Shiro responds. “Yes!”

Thus, even if he dropped the documents, he ran without knowing where.

As long as he meets anyone soon, that should only matter.

Eventually, Shiro bumps into one of the officers’ back. However, instead of apologizing, he tries to briefly explain the current situation without sounding too nervous to these men.

Fortunately for him, they understand the gray-eyed secretary and act quickly.


A day has passed.

Shiro finally learns that it was a rookie soldier around his age who was responsible for yesterday’s incident.

Apparently, that young man has managed to break into the commander’s locked office. However, his assassination attempt has failed, and Commander Shiki will execute him today.

Meanwhile, the gray-haired secretary still cannot get over how it sounds surreal.

However, he is still Akira’s substitute until he gets well and can serve the ruthless ruler.

Fortunately, unlike the previous time, he has gained a lot of valuable experience from Akira. But he also has higher expectations from Shiki.

Yet Shiro understands better than anyone else that he has no right to refuse but to fulfill his duties.

Besides, he is already a part of this ruthless military. So, he has no choice but to continue living it and never return from where he came from.

After all, upon taking his first steps into the military office, Shiro has already died as an average citizen, a student, a friend, and a son.

Even if he isn’t wearing his uniform, he will still be seen as a military member serving the most powerful person in the country.

In the end, Shiro fixes his cap and uniform before continuing his duties.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: I’ll Never Return… Chapter 3
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Characters: Original Male Character, Shiki, Akira
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (4 chapters)

Summary: [This story was made as entry for November’s month Aarinfantasy Writing Challenge.]
[This story takes time during Bitter Sweet and after it. However, it can be read as a stand-alone story]
One average student barely managed to settle down in the new place. However, everything has changed when a couple of officers frame him and use him as a bribe to the most powerful man in the country. What terrors awaits Shiro in the hell which he was brought, and will he live long enough to survive it? Read and find out~
AO3 Link


Click here to read

Another day passes.

After Shiro receives the permission, he enters Captain Akira’s office without knowing what to expect.

To his surprise, the preserved military secretary politely greets him and even offers to take a seat.

Without a second thought, the gray-eyed male nods.

When he picks the nearest chair, he brings it in front of Akira’s desk.

After Shiro sits, he straightens his back while keeping his clenched hands on his lap.

Meanwhile, Akira doesn’t remove his eyes from the supposed-to-be replacement.

There is simply something off about him he doesn’t like, but he cannot put his finger on it. The blue-eyed secretary thinks while narrowing his gaze.

What does the commander think of picking an inexperienced fellow who is not suitable even for the most basic manual labor? The military secretary wonders.

It may have been nothing more than another decision by Shiki, which he made on a whim. It can’t be otherwise, right? The blue-eyed male ponders after narrowing his gaze and almost making his colleague jump from his seat.

Besides, he knows the commander better than anyone else. So, there is no way he would pick a secretary based on his looks or other unrelated traits. Akira thinks to himself while hiding the rising unexplained irritation towards Shiro behind his poker face.

Yet Akira’s suspicious intuition tells him that something is not right about his new colleague.

Despite that, he has to overcome these irrational emotions and aim for no less than perfection and be praised by Shiki.

More importantly, it would be wrong to judge anyone without knowing them well, or at least their background and true intentions. Or so the preserved military secretary convinces himself.

Suddenly, his further thoughts are interrupted by Shiro’s slightly shaky voice. “Excuse me. Is there anything wrong, sir?”

At that moment, Akira only closes his eyes and takes a breath.

After he opens his eyes, he answers. “Do not pay attention to it. It’s nothing important.”

Nevertheless, the blue-eyed male let his curiosity win.

After a brief pause, Akira opens his mouth to ask. “In any case… Before we begin, I need to ask you something. What exactly were your duties when I was gone?”

At first, Shiro is confused, but a second later, he confesses. “Um, the commander asked me to do is to keep his office clean, prepare him tea, and stay quiet during the meetings. That’s all.”

After hearing such an answer, the blue-eyed secretary covers his mouth and turns his head away. He even clenches his gloved palm while he slightly frowns and silently exhales.

It is upsetting to hear that the commander is burying himself in more work, if not doing all the work alone, with no one taking care of him.

On the other hand, Akira doesn’t want to allow himself to vent his frustrations on some newbie and disappoint Shiki by recklessly lashing out and not handling it like a professional.

Yet, Shiro’s concerned voice makes him widen his eyes and turn back. “Did… Did I say anything wrong, sir? I… I didn’t mean to upset you.”

Soon, Akira straightens his back and sits back while keeping his serious face. “Either way, do you know why did I called you?”

The younger secretary only shakes his head.

When Akira places his entwined palms on his desk, he explains. “Today, we will start with the basics and I will introduce you to your future routine.”

After he stands up gracefully and takes the papers in his hand, he leaves the desk side and adds. “For today, you will be only foreshadowing me. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to ask me. Is that clear?”

“Y-yes. I understand!” Shiro responds immediately.

It might not be a simple task to train someone like him.

On the other hand, there must be something about this young man if the commander decides to keep him alive. Therefore, it shouldn’t be even a word impossible for him.

Otherwise, the commander’s hair may become gray hair instantly, and his well-being, if not his life, will be threatened. Akira thinks to himself while he keeps the documents close to him.

But for now, he decides to take this as Shiki’s thrown challenge that he cannot lose.

Therefore, he is determined to take this unskilled young man under his wing and train him to become a flawless secretary who will serve the most powerful man in the country.

In the end, Akira prompts the younger secretary to follow him.

After leaving the office, Shiro’s intense training begins.

Unfortunately, the very little that Shiro knows is that Shiki’s personal secretary will not go easy on him.


As time passed, Shiro carefully observed and followed his mentor without leaving his side.

It is impressive to see how Captain Akira, despite his serious demeanor, respects and cares for his squad. Thus, the younger secretary slowly starts admiring him.

More so, his men are not indifferent toward him and follow his every command without questioning him or fear.

Despite Akira’s strict disciplinary methods and not wasting time, even on unnecessary words or actions, his squad trusts him enough to ask him anything and receive brief but precise answers or advice.

Will this be a part of his duties someday?

After all, it’s a challenging task to not only manage that many people but also make them listen to you.

Besides, it might be impossible to handle it alone for someone like Shiro. Not just when he feels that many eyes on him, staring at him like someone who doesn’t belong here or is as confused as he is.

More importantly, even by Akira’s side, he feels nervous that he wants to hide behind his back. So, how will he manage without the military secretary’s guidance? Shiro wonders.

But for now, Akira prompts him to move to further tasks.


Some time has passed. Finally, it is almost time to serve the afternoon tea and snacks.

That is the most basic thing that he can do well despite yesterday’s incident. Shiro assumes as they both head toward the kitchen.

Even in this case, Akira proves him wrong again.

The military secretary not only demonstrates but also explains the proper techniques for brewing coffee or preparing tea.

As Akira places the teapot with a couple of cups and snacks on the silver tray, he is interrupted by Shiro. “Um, wouldn’t be much simpler just to boil the kettle and to wait for a few minutes? It would save some time and it may just taste the same.”

“Wouldn’t be much easier for you to drink from the puddle? The water is water, right?” the military secretary turns his head while balancing the tray.

A second later, he adds in a slightly irritated voice. “Hopefully, you haven’t prepared tea or coffee in such a primitive way and served it to the commander, did you?”

Meanwhile, Shiro only shrugs while avoiding facing his mentor without being sure what to say.

Just before opening the door and leaving, Akira nags at him while trying to remain patient. “I have no interest in how you prepare for yourself. You can do it like you wish.”

After leaving the kitchen and heading towards Shiki’s office, the military secretary lectures his disciple. “However, you must keep in mind that you are serving for the most important person in the country. That’s why you have to aim for perfection and put all your heart into any given task and believe what you’re doing.”

Within each of Akira’s spoken words, his given speech becomes more passionate.

But for now, he closes his blue eyes and respires.

After a brief pause, Shiki’s loyal subordinate continues. “Otherwise, you will only disappoint yourself and the commander by your half-baked work. More importantly, if you prioritize the commander’s well-being and his satisfaction, and respect him, he will notice your effort and you won’t be unrewarded.”

As he finishes his speech, he turns to Shiro’s side. “Hey, are you even listening to me?”

“Y-yes…” the gray-eyed male immediately responds.

The very little that they knew was that Shiki was listening to them just around the corner and delighted not just by Akira’s words but at how he expressed them.

Nevertheless, instead of approaching his personal secretary, he heads to his office and waits for him to show up.

Besides, he will spoil his precious prized possession with attention in private as soon as he dismisses the unwanted company for today. The military tyrant reminds himself while keeping a smug look on his face.


Soon enough, a couple of secretaries reach Shiki’s office.

When Akira straightens his back, he knocks on the door. “Sorry for intruding. I’ve brought you tea, sir. May I come in, please?”

After receiving the permission, he opens the door without making the content of the entire tray shake.

A second later, Shiro understands he should follow his mentor even if he prefers to stay away from the commander, sensing that his presence might be unnecessary.


After Akira closes the door behind them, Shiki’s question makes him lift his head. “What is he doing here?”

“I beg your pardon, sir. Starting today, Shiro is foreshadowing me before he is ready to work,” the military secretary explains.

When he gets closer and places the tray with the afternoon treats on the commander’s desk, he adds while keeping a poker face. “That’s why I need also to show him how to properly to serve and help you to relax, sir.”

While the silver-haired secretary fills his cup, Shiki closes his eyes and raises his palm. “There is no need for that.”

Akira only lifts his eyes. After he places the teapot on the tray, he listens to the commander. “You are back on duties, correct? So, I don’t need anyone else to do it while you are here.”

Hearing these words surprises the preserved secretary that he momentarily loses the gift of speech.

Meanwhile, Shiro leans his back against the closed door and carefully observes.

Yet, he nearly gets startled when Shiki looks in his direction and addresses him. “You are still here? You can leave now.”

Thus, the gray-eyed young man responds. “Yes, sir!”

Lastly, before leaving, he nods.


The military tyrant is finally able to enjoy the company of his loyal subordinate without any disturbances.

But for now, Shiki addresses him. “And you - are you going to stand like this? Sit down.”

Of course, Akira doesn’t object.

After he brings the chair, he makes himself comfortable.

Before he takes a sip of tea, he comments. “You look so happy today, sir. Did anything good happen?”

While the commander’s crimson eyes sparkle with excitement, he cracks a smile. “Is there anything wrong with having my secretary by on my side again?”

Such an answer makes Akira turn his head and hide his blushing gaze.

However, feeling how Shiki places his palm on his hand and strokes it making the secretary face him.

It seems that the commander even goes further.

After Shiki masterly slides his fingers under his subordinate’s glove and gently runs his fingertips against his skin.

At that moment, Akira realizes he has become this large feline toy again.

More importantly, his poker face cracks, and lets out a lovely sigh while Shiki teases him like this.

For now, the military secretary shakily closes his eyes and speaks up in a softer tone. “Sir, it’s not a time or place for it…”

Unfortunately, his words don’t reach the commander.

Soon, Shiki leans closer and brings his subordinate closer by holding him by his tie.

After such a gesture, Akira opens his big blue eyes, and his heart skips a beat upon noticing how Shiki fixates his strangely sleepy eyes on him.

“Looks like I have to remind you of your place.” The supreme ruler comments as he narrows his gaze.

Just before he pulls his adored secretary into a kiss…

Suddenly, the dark-haired male widens his eyes as Akira brings a pile of papers to separate them.

As the silver-haired male lowers, he lowers his gaze. “I’ll ask you again - did anything happen? Or… ”

After a brief pause, he widens his eyes upon the sudden realization. “Are you upset that I work slower than I supposed to?”

When he stares at Shiki with guilty eyes, he adds. “If that is a case, I’m terribly sorry. And I understand that teaching someone while I have my own duties is not an excuse.”

Lastly, the preserved secretary confesses. “However, I have to make sure that if anything happens that I won’t be able to stay by your side, at least you will have an excellent replacement that you can be proud of. And, of course, if you are in doubt or wish to see my training methods, you can check on me whenever you wish.”

‘How adorable…’ Shiki wonders without removing his crimson eyes from his prize-possession.


After Shiki stands up, he approaches his subordinate gracefully, like a feline.

Meanwhile, Akira only gives him a questioning look. “Sir?”

Instead of saying anything, the ebony-haired male takes his partner’s wrist and pulls him closer.

For now, the military secretary has no choice but to stand up while Shiki wraps his arm around his waist.

Even when Shiki releases his wrist, Akira keeps his thrown arm on his shoulder.

As the commander gently tilts his subordinate’s chin, he stares at him with admiring eyes. “How can you always never fail to amaze me?”

At that moment, the silver-haired male does his best to keep a straight face.

Unfortunately, it’s not a simple task. Not when Akira feels how Shiki has wrapped his invisible panther tail around his thigh.

For now, he impatiently waits for his partner’s next move.

To his surprise, nothing happens.

A few moments later, the commander removes his hand from his face and lifts his cap.

Upon Shiki lands his palm on Akira’s head, he ruffles his hair.

Lastly, he puts on his subordinate’s cap back. “What is it with you? That’s all for now.”

When Akira notices that feline-like smirk, he understands it may not end well.

Thus, Shiki’s hand slides down to his bottom and massages it.

Despite that, he listens to the commander’s sweet words. “... Unless you want something specific. Then you have to state it clearly.”

Instead of giving to this man’s provocation, Akira places his palms on Shiki’s chest and replies. “The break may end soon and you won’t rest again, sir.”

After gently pushing him away, the silver-haired male adds while keeping his demanding eyes on Shiki. “More importantly, you haven’t reviewed the documents that I sent you earlier yet. So, please take it more seriously… It’s all I ask for.”

“Duties before the pleasure, as always...” the dark-haired male murmurs while crossing his arms and holding his chin.

When Akira steps back, Shiki takes a step forward and addresses him. “What if one of your duties would be satisfying your master?”

After a brief pause, he smirks and adds in a suggestive tone. “Will you train your colleague for that as well?”

Meanwhile, Akira lowers his gaze and turns his head while biting his lower lip.

Even the thought of the commander embracing anyone else than him alone hurt him like a knife. Or so the military secretary keeps in his mind while clenching his chest.

After he closes his blue, gloomy eyes, he exhales and lowers his shoulders. “Then do whatever you wish or just kill me here. This is the only order that I will disobey… Even if that is very selfish of me.”

Yet, when he feels how the beloved hand strokes his cheek, he widens his eyes.

When their eyes meet, Akira cannot help himself but feel how the heat rushes to his cheeks.

Shiki softens his gaze and comments in a nearly purring voice. “How are you able to spit such adorable words with this mouth?… Hmph. As if anyone else will satisfy me or is worth standing by my side. Never forget - I’m not interested in not my belongings.”

After he sighs, he continues in a more formal tone. “However, if you insist so badly, you will assist me for the rest of the day. Understand?”

Hearing this answer pushes the heavy boulder from Akira’s chest.

Lastly, the blue-eyed secretary closes his eyes and nods. “Yes.”

Unfortunately, very little does the military secretary realize his disciple may display the results of his hard work sooner than he expects.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: I’ll Never Return… Chapter 2
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Characters: Original Male Character, Shiki, Akira
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (4 chapters)

Summary: [This story was made as entry for November’s month Aarinfantasy Writing Challenge.]
[This story takes time during Bitter Sweet and after it. However, it can be read as a stand-alone story]
One average student barely managed to settle down in the new place. However, everything has changed when a couple of officers frame him and use him as a bribe to the most powerful man in the country. What terrors awaits Shiro in the hell which he was brought, and will he live long enough to survive it? Read and find out~
AO3 Link


Click here to read

Thus, within the first sunbeams breaking through the gaps of the curtains and the chirping birds outside, Shiro finally stretches out and opens his eyes.

However, when the silver-haired young man instinctively rolls to check the time, he realizes his mother won’t call him for breakfast this morning. After all, it’s not even his room, or he belongs here.

Shiro is still surprised at how he slept in such a place.

Even the luxurious, pre-war Western design apartment, which the most powerful man in the country assigned to him after learning about his new routine, is alien to him, and he cannot get used to living there.

More so, unlike Shiro’s home, it lacks comfort and warmth.

Thankfully, the old wall phone links him to a bygone era he can't revisit. That’s why hearing his mother’s voice brings him an overwhelming sense of comfort.

In any case, he understands that he must get up and prepare for today.

Some time passed. As Shiro stands before the mirror, he fixes the tie and the collar and puts on the military cap on his head.

When his gloved palm brushes through the fabric of his uniform, he softens his gaze and sighs.

No matter how difficult for him to believe, the military secretary who faces him in the mirror reflection is him.

It’s not just a strange dream, but a new reality he must accept. After all, he is now a subordinate of the ruthless tyrant who rules with an iron fist, no longer a student of Heisei University.

He also understands that this uniform is not a decoration, but a sign of high status. With it comes a mountain of responsibilities that Shiro hopes not to be overwhelmed in a single day.

Suddenly, his further thoughts are interrupted by the beeping car outside. Currently, the secretary with silver hair recollects Commander Shiki mentioning that he will be picked up by one of his drivers in the morning.

Instead of wasting more time, Shiro puts on the long, dark coat and leaves through the door.

Thus, he mentally prepares himself for starting not just a day but also a new chapter in his life, with its challenges and hardships.

 


 

After a while, he arrives at the office building. Unlike yesterday, the driver holds the car door open for him, and the guards salute him and allow him inside.

For sure such a change of attitude towards him contrasts with day and night.

At the moment, he is unsure whether people around him respect him out of fear of violating the commander’s orders.

Even when a few officers see him, they fix themselves when they accidentally speak Captain Akira’s name.

Yet, he cannot bring himself to be mad at the same people who mistreated him. He was just an alien here, and they were only following the orders, right? Shiro wonders while being escorted to Shiki’s office.

Soon enough, the gray-eyed male arrives at the office, and the person leading him knocks on the door, informing him about his presence. After receiving permission, this man opens the door and lets Shiro inside.

 


 

When the door closes behind the silver-haired secretary, he politely bows.

Meanwhile, the commander instructs him. “Hang your coat and come here.”

“Y-yes, sir.” Shiro briefly answers in a gentle voice. But for now, the old typing machine catches his attention.

When he handles the current task, he receives another one. “Hopefully, you can type fast.”

As Shiki stands up and his gaze points to his chair, he continues. “Sit. Or do you prefer to stand?”

Instead of saying anything, the secretary remains silent, and before sitting down, he nods.

“Today, your task is to prepare me a report detailing the current status of personnel within the division. Include information on deployments, training schedules, and any personnel changes. Ensure accuracy and timeliness. Understand?” The commander instructs.

“Yes… Right away, sir.” The silver-haired secretary immediately yet politely answers.

Lastly, Shiki adds while keeping a stoic posture. “Good. But first, you will help to write a couple of letters.”

And thus, Shiro’s first day as a secretary begins.

 


 

Some time passed. After Shiro finishes working on the requested documents, he sits back and checks the time on the clock hanging on the wall.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes and stands up. After all, it’s already past the supposed afternoon tea time.

Without wasting time, the silver-haired secretary rushes through the door while he forgets to take the papers.

After a while, Shiro reaches the commander’s office door. Of course, he struggled to navigate in the new place, and he couldn’t memorize the directions on his first day at the job.

While he still catches his breath, he knocks on the door. “Pardon for the intrusion, sir. However, may I come in, please?”

When he receives the permission, he enters inside while preparing himself for the worst.

“Close the door and come here.” The dark-haired male orders with sensible irritation in his voice while sitting behind his desk.

As Shiro lowers his gaze and nods, he does what is said. At least, it’s the least he can do to avoid further angering the commander.

“Do you ever check the time? Next time, set a reminder or use the alarm clock if get lost in time.” Shiki speaks while observing how his subordinate is so stiff.

For sure, the gray-eyed secretary can see that the supreme ruler is containing his disappointment. Nevertheless, he tries to appeal to him. “I’m terribly sorry… I… Let me rush to the staff kitchen and quickly- ”

However, when Shiki raises his palm, Shiro immediately closes his mouth and straightens his back.

After a brief pause, the military tyrant lowers it. “There is no need for that. You are dismissed.”

“What about the report you’ve asked for?” Shiro objects. After he realizes perhaps he used the wrong tone, he covers his mouth with his palm and shrugs.

But for now, he notices the commander keeps his anger and annoyance behind his poker face.

As Shiki clenches his fist, he replies. “Leave it on my desk. Then you can leave for today.”

In the end, when Shiro bows, his military cap falls from his head. Despite embarrassing himself like this, he remains as formal as possible. “I understand. And I’m sorry for causing the problems. I’ll make sure it won’t happen.”

After the silver-haired male leaves, Shiki face-palms and rubs his temples.

This boy resembles his prized possession. Yet, he strongly lacks his will and discipline. In this case, training a bear to ride a bicycle is much simpler compared to whatever he is. Or so the supreme ruler ponders.

 


 

A couple more days have passed. However, instead of being responsible for the paperwork or attending important meetings, Shiro was assigned to clean the commander’s office and run basic errands.

For sure, the silver-haired secretary was partially relieved that his shoulders were lifted from carrying so much responsibility. On the other hand, he senses that it might be a bad sign.

After all, if he makes another mistake, Commander Shiki might silently discard him, and no one will notice it.

But it’s okay. Shiro avoided getting into trouble that would upset the commander this time.

More so, he hasn’t received any complaints from the others either. Or so Shiro comforts himself as he prepares a pot of tea and sets out cups on the silver tray before leaving the kitchen.

 


 

Some time passes. Finally, as the gray-eyed secretary takes a deep breath and straightens his back, he enters the supreme ruler’s office.

After politely greeting Shiki as usual, he closes the door behind him.

Unfortunately, one wrong step on the tiny wrinkle on the crimson carpet is enough for Shiro to trip over.

At that moment, he can swear that the time has stopped, and he hears his slowdown respiring and his heartbeat ringing inside his head.

However, the harsh landing on the ground and shattered porcelain is enough to return him to his senses.

After the silver-haired secretary manages to get up shakily and half-sit, he widens his eyes and lifts his head.

All he can do is stare at the military tyrant, who is irritated and disappointed.

When Shiro places his shaky palms on the ground, he closes his eyes and bows. “I-I’m... I’m terribly sorry! Please forgive me! I-”

Suddenly, the door opens and the loud, rushing footsteps silence him and make him turn toward the concerned young male’s voice. “Commander!-”

For now, Shiro only observes the other military secretary, who not only wears the same uniform as him but also looks identical to him.

However, when that unknown young man notices him, he only dumbfounded stares back at him.

“What are you doing here?” The commander asks the blue-eyed male, who stormed into the room.

Meanwhile, Shiro decides to wait silently and see how this plays out before receiving his punishment.

“I heard a weird noise behind the door, and I needed to see whether you are safe, sir,” Akira politely replies.

When his blue eyes point at the supposed-to-be impostor, he returns his questioning gaze to Shiki. “Please forgive me for my rudeness, but who is this incompetent fool? And what is he doing in your office?”

“That is your substitute until you recover and are ready to go back to work,” Shiki states while keeping a serious look on his face.

Meanwhile, Shiro is concerned that the preserved military secretary’s posture and face change into briefly bewildered.

Soon, Akira fixes his shoulders while being as professional as possible. “I have no right to judge but to support you and your decisions, sir. However, please reconsider who will be able to serve you. If you wish, I can help you with that.”

However, Shiki raises an eyebrow while keeping a serious look on his face and asks. “Are you telling me what to do?”

The blue-eyed male shakes his head. “No. Not all.”

After a brief pause, Akira points with his palm at his new threat to the commander. “But this worthless thing will only mess up everything, even if you entrust him with the most simple tasks. More importantly, you’ll endanger yourself if you let this creature anywhere close to you!”

When he deeply exhales, he continues his speech while pressing his palm against his chest. “I won’t allow him to leave peacefully if anything happens to you... That’s why, if you excuse me, I need to talk in-person with him and discipline him accordingly.”

Shiro only gasps and crawls back when the ruthless secretary approaches him.

After Akira kneels and roughly grabs him by his uniform, the gray-eyed young man shrugs and whimpers.

However, he ignores Shiro’s discomfort and scolds him. “Get up already! Whining won’t help you. So, at least have some shame to face your punishment properly!”

Certainly, there is no mercy in these ice-cold, unforgiving blue eyes, showing pure fury and disgust towards his victim.

So, it’s a matter of seconds before he’ll be shredded into pieces. Or so Shiro assumes as he trembles like a leaf.

Lastly, Akira raises his hand and is about to send a powerful slap. However, his palm stops in the middle and freezes upon hearing Shiki’s strict command. “Enough! Release him and come here.”

Meanwhile, after Shiro carefully opens his eyes, his gaze follows the other secretary, who faces the supreme ruler.

As Shiki exhales, he narrows his gaze and addresses his loyal subordinate. “When did you grow so bold to lash out at your colleagues?”

“That is!-” Akira objects.

However, his voice is cut off when the military tyrant raises his palm.

After Shiki lowers his palm, he fixates his piercing red eyes on his subordinate and orders. “Do not argue with me.”

At the moment, only observing how Akira keeps a straight posture without moving makes Shiro worry about his well-being.

When the commander rests his chin on his palms, he continues to discipline the blue-eyed secretary without removing his eyes from him. “You even disobey and do not follow orders. Perhaps firing you may help you understand your place.”

These words finally crack Akira’s poker face, and he lowers his head like a guilty puppy who only accepts his master’s harsh decision.

But for now, Shiro’s heart skips a beat when Shiki looks his way for a while.

Lastly, the fearful tyrant turns his gaze to his personal secretary and announces his final verdict. “Starting today, you need to treat him like any of your men.”

For now, Shiki is amused by his subordinate’s confused face, and he adds. “You will be able to do this. So, when you are ready to return to your duties, you will train him to become a fine secretary to replace you when you get sick or need a day off. Any objections?”

No matter how Akira dislikes this decision and finds it a pointless task, he doesn’t object and nods. “‘Yes. I understand.”

Meanwhile, even the gray-eyed male still cannot comprehend what just happened and feels like it is nothing more than a strange dream.

Suddenly, he gets startled by Shiki calmly addressing him. “Call the cleaner to my office, and then you are free for the rest of the day.”

Fortunately, it’s enough for the fear and guilt to vanish in Shiro’s eyes and to be replaced by the sparkle of hope and innocent excitement. Thus, the light-haired male immediately responds. “Y-yes, sir!”

However, Akira’s strict voice ground him. “Do you know with whom you are talking? Show the proper respect, you fool!”

Lastly, after Shiro stands up and before taking his leave, he silently bows and closes the door.

 


 

For sure, it was a close one. So, it’s a pure miracle that he managed to survive. The secretary ponders while feeling like a huge boulder was removed from his chest.

On the other hand, Shiro is uncertain about what awaits him tomorrow.

After all, Commander Shiki’s personal secretary is scary and strict. So, who knows whether he’ll prepare a living hell of training for him? Suddenly, Shiro shivers and rubs his arms just at the thought of what Akira will do to him when they are alone in his office.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: I’ll Never Return… Chapter 1
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Characters: Original Male Character, Shiki, Akira
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (4 chapters)

Summary: [This story was made as entry for November’s month Aarinfantasy Writing Challenge.]
[This story takes time during Bitter Sweet and after it. However, it can be read as a stand-alone story]
One average student barely managed to settle down in the new place. However, everything has changed when a couple of officers frame him and use him as a bribe to the most powerful man in the country. What terrors awaits Shiro in the hell which he was brought, and will he live long enough to survive it? Read and find out~
AO3 Link

November's writing prompt: “Stricken with a curse”

Word count: 2835



Click here to read

Finally, with the sounds of a ringing bell, the last lecture is over. And thus, after picking up his textbooks, one silver-haired male with gray eyes in his twenties leaves the auditorium.

After walking in the corridor, he turns his head and gazes through the window. However, the sun’s reflection on the rustled tree leaves makes him gloomier.

After all, just when he managed to settle down in the new place for a while, the recent news struck like lightning from the clear sky and ruined his momentary happiness.

Apparently, Shiro’s days of reckless freedom are counted, and soon he’ll be placed in the meat grinder. That’s right, Shiro received a recruitment letter from the military a couple of days ago.

Of course, he didn’t tell about it to his mother because he perfectly understood that it might break her heart, and she wouldn’t let him perish on the battlefield like his late father.

Unfortunately, he knows well that he won’t be able to hide the needle in the bag for too long or ignore this cursed piece of paper that kills countless men. However, he doesn’t care about being taken by the force but is afraid of what these awful, unpredictable, corrupted officers may do to his mother if he doesn’t cooperate with them.

But for now, Shiro continues on his way, trying to forget that letter, focusing on group assignment tasks, and thinking about what place he should pick for incoming practice.

 


 

Some time has passed. As Shiro expected by this time, the streets are already crowded by the mass of constantly changing people, and he blends into the moving gray mass in no time.

Suddenly, he widens his eyes as someone from behind grabs his arm. At first, he shakes off the stranger’s hand without turning back.

Besides, maybe it’s just a random stranger wanting to mess around. At least, it’s not as uncomfortable as the passengers on the train either being too close to him.

Therefore, Shiro decides not to pay too much attention to such a petite thing and minds his business as usual.

Unfortunately, another stranger is bolder than the previous one and slips something small inside his uniform pants pocket.

Yet, the silver-haired male’s reaction is faster, and as he grasps the white-gloved hand, he turns back. “What do you think of doing?”

To his surprise, it’s a middle-aged man in a military uniform grinning at him like a hungry wolf.

As that man grips Shiro’s wrist, he addresses him. “Where do you think you’re going, you little thief?”

“Let... let me go!” The gray-eyed male resists. Yet, he gasps as another officer holds his other arm.

“Not only you’ve caught stealing, but you also have an audacity to disrespect the authority.” Another officer replies in a mocking tone.

While one of them puts the handcuffs behind his back, he adds. “You have a lot of guts, kid…”

Despite being the center of the crowds’ attention, Shiro struggles. “I didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Then, what’s this? How did end up in your pocket? Or are you telling us it jumped right into your pocket?” The middle-aged man asks as he pulls a tiny plastic bag filled with white powder and shows it in front of the poor student.

Shiro freezes in the same spot while his eyes follow the small object swigged. A few seconds later, he only closes his eyes and calmly explains. “You are the ones who slipped it in. So, please do not blame me for it.”

“Still playing innocent, eh? Perhaps staying in the prison cell will fix your rotten behavior.” The officer replies as both start dragging him.

In the end, the scared crowd distances themselves from a couple of officers taking away the young criminal while murmuring between themselves or rushing from the crime scene.

Meanwhile, Shiro is stubborn and indignantly addresses the people. “Help me! Let me go! How… How can anyone can be so blind and allow these bastards to do as they wish and commit crimes? You clearly have seen how they just taking an advance of their position and bullying average people! If we all unite, we can defeat these coward men and bring the justice!”

Yet, his speech is silenced by receiving a hit into his head by the sword handle.

“Hey, you better be careful with that! The commander may dislike him and we’ll get no reward if that brat is injured or dead.” The older man scolds his colleague.

After they approached their car and opened it, the other officer replied. “He’ll take him anyway and will even applaud us. Just look at him. He is the copy of that lousy secretary.”

When he picks an empty sack and rope, he orders. “Just make sure that he won’t try to escape.”

While his colleague holds Shiro tight, he puts the bag over him and wraps the surrounding rope.

“Where are you taking me?” The silver-haired male asks.

“Don’t worry, you’ll learn soon. So, you better behave yourself or else your parents may get very upset finding out that their dead son was a drug addict.” The older man explains as he tosses him like a sack of potatoes to the back seat.

Lastly, Shiro remains silent and feels anxious, without having any idea where he is taken or how these cruel men will torture him before his corpse is disposed of.

Some time passed. After the car stops, these men drag the restrained student and prompt him to go. However, very little he knows how drastically his cursed fate will change.

 


 

As time passes, Shiro becomes more uncomfortable and stiff by only walking in the never-ending corridors.

One thing is being treated like a criminal who gets closer to his execution. Another thing is the heavy, chilling, and unwelcoming atmosphere in the air and feeling watched by countless eyes that he cannot see.

Even on their way, Shiro becomes more concerned and pale after listening to how the older officer proudly explains to someone how they brought something that should interest the commander.

But for now, a couple of officers finally reach their destination place. Or so the silver-haired male assumes as he hears how one of these men knocks on the wooden door. “Commander, we brought him as you requested and you would love to see him.”

After a brief pause, the supreme ruler permits this couple to enter the office while dragging the sacrificial lamb.

Just from the menacing and cold energy surrounding this room, Shiro feels as if the ruthless tyrant’s eyes pierce his body. He can even swear that there is an invisible wire wrapped around him that cuts him if he makes a single move.

Perhaps this is how small animals feel being cornered and looked down on by the serpent. The gray-eyed male ponders.

“Show him to me. Or do you intend to waste my time?” Shiki briefly orders.

“R-right away, sir!” the older man agrees.

When the surrounding rope becomes loose and falls off, the bag is finally removed.

Suddenly, Shiro widens his eyes in terror and gasps upon seeing the military tyrant indifferently staring at him behind his desk. At that moment, the poor student trembles like a leaf and falls on his knees like a rag-doll. Fortunately, his weak body is supported by these men.

Meanwhile, Shiki stands up and approaches the offered creature, studying his every movement and facial expression.

After the red-eyed male stands in front of the unfortunate young man, he narrows his gaze.

For now, Shiro hisses in pain as one officer pulls his hair to lift his head and fixates his eyes on the supreme leader.

“How is it? Will he be enough for you, sir?” Another man asks impatiently.

Shiki only states. “His eyes are gray.”

“We can easily fix that! Please, just tell us what color you prefer and it will be done in no time. Whatever you wish for, we will adjust him in shape or form until you will be satisfied.” The other boasts.

Even if Shiro is speechless, his teary eyes speak louder than any words that beg for mercy.

In the end, the dark-haired male announces his final verdict. “There is no need. Leave him and you are dismissed.”

“B-but what about our reward for our hard work?” The older officer objects.

‘Tsk, what a bunch of greedy vermin…’ Shiki gives them a cold, disgusted look before picking a thick pile of bills from his uniform jacket and tossing it like food for the pigs, which eat anything like shameless animals.

As these men pick up the money, one of them bows and thanks before leaving the room. Lastly, Shiro is left alone to face the ruthless tyrant.

“Your name?” The supreme ruler addresses him. After receiving no answers, he adds. “Or do dogs like you don’t have it?”

Instead of saying anything, the silver-haired male only turns his head away and closes his eyes. Even if he accepts his bitter ending, he refuses to see it.

However, he immediately opens his gray eyes as the commander takes something from his pants pocket and fixates his eyes on him.

While Shiki studies the student ID card, he cracks a smile. “Heisei University? Isn’t it where you learn a bunch of useless nonsense?”

After he gracefully places the card on the desk, he continues his speech. “Well, whatever you’ve been taught here, you’ll be still a fine replacement.”

When Shiki walks behind his prey’s back, he picks his sword from the sheath. Lastly, he cuts the handcuffs.

At that moment, Shiro stares at the floor while leaning on his shaky hands.

A second later, the military tyrant orders. “Strip.”

For sure, it shocks the gray-eyed male, who only hugs himself. “No…”

Unfortunately, the poor student realizes he made a terrible mistake, and these red judging eyes will be the last thing he sees before he perishes.

Suddenly, he loudly gasps and closes his eyes as the naked blade slashes his uniform jacket and shirt.

Although, he still cannot comprehend how he is alive or even scratched as if the sword didn’t aim to cut through his flesh.

As soon as Shiro realizes that his back is exposed, he covers his chest with the remains of his clothing and murmurs. “Barbarian.”

As Shiki allows his sword to rest in the sheath, he gives a questioning look at the creature below him.

After he kneels in front of Shiro and grips his throat, he makes him face him. “Did you say anything? Speak louder.”

Without a second thought, the gray-eyed male shouts. “Barbarian!”

Meanwhile, Shiki only narrows his gaze after he grabs the student by his uniform and sends a harsh slap across his face. After removing the bothering clothing, he looks down on the fallen Shiro covering his stinging cheek. “You don’t understand against whom you raise your voice?”

When Shiro sits on one leg, he lowers his head and bites his lower lip. After a brief pause, he speaks up, nearly sobbing. “Why me? Why are you doing this? I did nothing wrong to deserve this!… First, these bastards framed me, then kidnapped me… And for what? Is human’s life worthless to you!? I hate this… I hate how it’s nothing more than a joke to you… So, kill me as anyone else who is nothing more than a pest for you… It’ll just prove that this country has fallen from the grace and rotten like a fish - starting from the head of it…”

The military tyrant only indifferently stares at the silver-haired male, who barely holds back from crying.

But for now, he reaches out for his unsheathed sword. When he is about to point the tip of it at Shiro’s cheek, the poor young man closes his eyes and shrugs while whimpering.

Who knew that someone similar to his personal secretary trembles like an aspen upon the smallest threat? On the other hand, maybe it’s for the better. After all, this stray animal learns quickly its place. More importantly, it might be interesting to see how his prized possession will react to this cheap imitation of him. Or so Shiki ponders.

When he narrows his gaze, he instructs him before taking his leave. “Wait here until I return.”

In the end, Shiro is left alone in the supreme ruler’s office while being eaten by uncertainty and anxiety.

 


 

A half-hour passes. However, the military tyrant hasn’t returned yet.

In the meantime, Shiro investigates his surroundings and realizes that he won’t escape this hell place in one piece.

Firstly, if he jumped through the window, he’d splatter his brain on the pavement.

Secondly, he may get shot or cut by the security guards. After all, the commander might be the unpredictable man who can think of anything to get what he wants.

Even if he stays here obediently, he may suffer like a war prisoner for speaking up his thoughts about this dictatorship and tyranny. On the other hand, he doesn’t understand why the commander hasn’t ordered to execute him or sent him to the labor camp as a dangerous person.

But for now, Shiro sits and leans his back against the leg of the desk while sinking deeper into despair.

Some time passed. Finally, the opening door and someone walking in makes the silver-haired male lift his head.

When Shiki approaches him, he tosses a pile of neatly folded clothes at him. “Wear this.”

After Shiro studies the given clothes, he notices it is some military uniform. Instead of asking unnecessary questions and not to anger the most powerful man in the country, he nods and answers in a gloomy voice. “Yes…”

Meanwhile, after Shiki sits behind his desk and crosses his legs, he places his elbows on the desk and rests his head on his hands.

At the moment, Shiro feels like he’ll burn from the embarrassment of being watched by how he undresses before changing his clothes.

It doesn’t help that the commander keeps the same poker face, making it difficult to read what is hiding behind these crimson eyes.

Despite that, the gray-eyed student doesn’t dare to ask Shiki to leave and endures such humiliation. On the other hand, it’s better than being forcibly undressed or threatened.

After Shiro handles the current task, he fixes his posture upon hearing the commander’s question. “Do you know why I asked you to wear this?”

“N-no, sir.” The gray-eyed male immediately replies.

“Starting today, you are my personal secretary.” Shiki announces.

“Then what about my studies?… Excuse me, but I cannot simply drop them.” The silver-haired male politely objects.

The supreme ruler gives a mocking look. “When you were supposed to be recruited in the army?”

After noticing how the secretary in front of him lowers his shoulders and widens his big, gray eyes as a scolded puppy, he cracks a smile. “After contacting the director of your university, I canceled them. Your mother was also informed about this as well. However, if you serve me well, I’ll fund your university.”

Yet, Shiro becomes pale and hangs his head as he sells his soul to the devil when he hears such a decision.

For sure, such an unexpected reaction entertains Shiki, and he asks. “What’s wrong? Anyone else would be ready to bite into each other’s throats just to be in your position. You’ll even support and honor your family.”

Meanwhile, Shiro understands that no matter how far he runs from the war and to avoid staining his hands with blood, he doesn’t escape his bitter fate. Yet, he is still curious whether he’ll be killed like Shiki’s previous secretary.

Therefore, he gathers all his courage and acts as formally as possible. “I’m… I’m sorry, sir. I just got overwhelmed a bit… and I won’t do it again. However, there is one thing that I need to ask, of course, if I can.”

After clenching his hands into fists, he asks. “If I’m not mistaken, you already had a secretary. Did anything happen to him?”

Unfortunately, he doesn’t realize that the commander can read him like an open, predictable book or that it is just a quick pass of time for him.

“He decided he needs to take a long vacation before he’ll be able to continue his duties.” Shiki calmly explains.

“I see…” the silver-haired secretary replies.

In the end, even if Shiro is aware this won’t end well, for now, he has to play along with his new role. Otherwise, his fears will come true.

After all, like any great leader, Commander Shiki is like a sun - for those who are far away from him will freeze to death, while those who are too close will burn. Therefore, one should aim for the perfect balance of staying around the middle.

Unfortunately, Shiro understands the harsh truth that his side was picked for him. And thus, he has to learn to live like constantly walking on eggshells for his own survival.


mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: A Fleeting Respite (chapter 3)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (3 Chapters)
Summary:

[This story is set after the Cat and Mouse ending aka Shiki’s ED2 (the PSP/PS2 version)]
Akira knew that something was off about Shiki during their usual sword-fight, and he didn’t like it all. However, as soon as he found out the reason behind it…
AO3 Link


Click here to read

Around an hour passes. Finally, the silver-haired swordsman returns and hangs the dark leather coat. When he looks in his partner’s direction, he closes his eyes and sighs.

Judging by the lingering scent of shampoo and damp hair, Shiki has recently taken a shower.

“As if he knew what is coming…” Akira thinks as he approaches the other swordsman.

But for now, the silver-haired male raises an eyebrow and comments on Shiki’s amused face. “What is it with you? Do you see anything entertaining?”

After grasping the silver cross around his partner’s neck, the blue-eyed male thrusts his chest. “If I were you, I wouldn’t be laughing. Because, tonight, you will be the one under the leash.”

Instead of saying anything, Shiki wraps his arm around Akira’s waist and observes how his partner briefly turns his head and lowers his gaze.

“You cannot go without your dirty tricks, can you?” The blue-eyed swordsman whispers before fixating eyes on his partner.

While he holds onto the cross, he brushes his other palm against Shiki’s chest.

To his surprise, the dark-haired male doesn't reject his hand; rather, he narrows his crimson eyes and exhales silently.

However, it doesn’t matter what Shiki is up to by acting this way. For now, all he knows is that no matter how hard it’s admitting, he was longing for this man and his touch for too long.

Although, he isn’t sure about his partner.

After all, if that was the case, he would be under this man’s control even by having a fatal wound. Or so Akira ponders as he stares at Shiki and asks to confirm that the latter is not the case.

Suddenly, Shiki pushes him onto the bed, making him lie down, and sits next to him.

“So, that’s his answer, huh? Yet, I can’t let him win this time.” Akira thinks as he extends his arms and wraps around his partner.

When Shiki leans closely to him and climbs on top of him, the silver-haired swordsman rolls them, making sure that it won’t open the wound.

As Akira sits on top of him, he fixates his blue eyes on Shiki, who delightfully stares at him, before making the next move.

He doesn’t know why Shiki is so passive this time. Even if he is looking down on him, he’ll show his place. Akira convinces himself while he pins and holds the dark-haired male’s wrists with one hand.

Meanwhile, Shiki remains entertained while allowing his precious prized possession to do as he pleases... At least let him think that way.

After Akira unbuckles and removes his partner’s belt, he uses it to restrain him. Lastly, he leans close to him.

“Let’s see how would you like to taste your own medicine.” The blue-eyed swordsman whispers into his ear.

Observing Akira's poker face, Shiki chuckles silently, finding it anything but intimidating.

After the silver-haired male withdraws his face, he corners his partner with one hand and another one resting on his belly.

For now, he gives a questioning look before moving to the next step.

When Akira swallows the saliva and shakily exhales, his hand slides under Shiki’s t-shirt. After all, it’s the first time he can touch this fearsome man like this, and he doubts it will be a second chance.

More so, Shiki’s skin is much smoother than he imagined.

Behind Akira’s serious face, he is excited by the soft sensation against his palm when he brushes his partner’s abs as if he discovered something new.

Hopefully, it won’t be a deadly but alluring trap like a cat’s soft belly. Although, it won’t be surprising if that is true. After all, someone keeps behaving like a proud, arrogant feline. The blue-eyed male cracks a smile while he stares at Shiki with impatient eyes.

After grabbing the hem of the ebony-haired man’s t-shirt, he exposes his chest.

Suddenly, Akira feels the heat rushing to his cheeks and how wild his heartbeat is by enjoying the captivating view in front of him.

Certainly, he cannot remove his honestly admiring gaze from his partner’s body. It’s not the first time he sees Shiki’s bare chest or him naked, but it feels different this time.

At the moment, Akira can appreciate his partner’s body as long as he wants.

That pale and beautiful doll-like skin, a flawless perfection - all it belongs to him. Unfortunately, one painful detail clenches Akira’s heart.

When the silver-haired male lowers his gaze, he closes his eyes and sighs.

Even if the scar on Shiki’s waist is healed, it will take time to disappear. Until then, it will remind Akira how his partner’s life thread was so close to being cut by the evil one. No. Perhaps it will be also a mark that he snatched this man from Death’s chilly hands.

Yet, his further thoughts are interrupted by Shiki’s voice. “Don’t waste time on useless thoughts when you have to satisfy your master.”

The silver-haired man gives an annoyed look and starts licking his healed scar without saying anything.

Anywhere where Akira’s tongue touches, he doesn’t miss a chance to land a soft kiss. When he blissfully narrows his gaze, he believes it may make the remaining scar fade away.

He looks up when he senses his partner’s body twitching. He notices Shiki’s stoic facade slowly cracking, revealing his genuine emotions.

Who knew that the same man who introduced him to sex was so sensitive? That’s why, Akira is even more curious about what else he can discover tonight.

“Just stop wasting time on unnecessary nonsense and get straight to the business.” The dark-haired male demands.

Once again, Akira ignores such a request.

Besides, someone still needs to learn his lesson. The blue-eyed male reminds himself.

When his fingertips trace down to Shiki’s lower regions, he starts rubbing his groin.

While Akira teases his partner, he fixates his impatient, blushing gaze on him.

Perhaps Shiki keeps acting though and unaffected, but even through his leather pants, Akira feels how his partner’s body is more sincere than his face. And that hard-on is excellent proof.

Of course, he could continue satisfying his partner, but it would be better if he would beg to be relieved, right? Akira decides.

That’s why the blue-eyed male crawls closely to Shiki.

When he gently places his palms on Shiki’s cheeks, he gives him an asking look before pulling him into a deep kiss and closing his eyes.

Strangely, when Akira licks his partner’s lips and tries to get inside his mouth, he quickly receives permission.

Suddenly, the silver-haired swordsman widens his eyes and blissfully closes them when Shiki explores every little part inside him.

Meanwhile, the dark-haired male narrows his gaze and chuckles, relishing in the lovely sounds Akira makes in between catching their breath.

If it wasn’t for a tiny inconvenience like having his hands tied up, he would have Akira under his control and discipline him for provoking him. But it’s fine. He only needs to distract him for a bit longer. The red-eyed swordsman decides.

In the end, Akira withdraws his drunken face and stares at Shiki.

After he sits on top of Shiki, he looks for something in his pants pocket. Soon, he picks a small, flat, rustling square package.

“What’s that for?” The dark-haired man asks in a nearly purring voice.

For sure, his partner’s smug face makes Akira slightly frown.

“Why are you so happy? You’re not the one who will use it. So, be glad about it because I know that later on, you won’t let me clean you. Otherwise, I would fuck you raw until you scream.” The blue-eyed male explains.

Such a frightening threat makes Shiki snort. “Do you even know what you are holding?”

However, Akira doesn’t give in to this man’s provocation and replies. “We’ll see how long you can keep this attitude.”

Lastly, the silver-haired male bites into a condom, and after unzipping his t-shirt, he removes it while looking down on Shiki.

When Akira handles the current task, he unbuckles his belt and lowers his pants.

Of course, it would be more convenient for him to leave his partner’s side and undress. On the other hand, he finds it entertaining how Shiki struggles.

He only moves his arms like that because he is desperate to reach something he can’t, right? The silver-haired swordsman assumes while he removes the bothering piece of clothing.

After he tosses his pants on the floor, he takes the rustling tiny package from his mouth and looks at how to open it.

When he tears it in the middle without holding back, the condom flies into the air and lands on the red-eyed swordsman’s chest.

As Akira leans closer to pick it up, his blue eyes warn that if someone dares to say a single word, he’ll leave tied up for a long time.

But for now, his poker face changes into a slightly confused and frustrated one while he studies this item.

He even shakes it until it falls out like a small, loose, transparent intestine. Despite feeling Shiki’s entertained eyes on him, he doesn’t give in to this man’s intimidation.

“We’ll see how you act when I’ll shove it up your…” Akira murmurs while not understanding whether it is supposed to be like this.

In the end, Shiki closes his eyes and sighs. “Stop molesting that thing and put it down if you don’t know how to use it.”

Akira immediately responds in an indignant voice. “Shut up… Just when I almost figured out how to...”

Unfortunately, he realizes he chirped too much when it’s too late. And thus, he humbles down.

The ebony-haired swordsman rolls his eyes. “You are a clueless idiot.”

“No one taught us how to pick one or to use it. I only knew that it’s used for not impregnating anyone.” Akira honestly backfires.

“Hmph. So, in other words, you are not experienced?” Shiki asks.

As the blue-eyed male turns his head away, he confesses. “Thanks to some reckless fool who is under my foot, I am now. Otherwise, I wouldn’t. Because I have no interest in that or in other people.”

After Akira notices Shiki’s thrilled eyes, he asks. “Then what about you?”

At first, he gives a questioning look. Yet, a second later, he is alerted after spotting that his partner’s hand gracefully slips from the restraints.

After removing another one, he pushes Akira down on the bed and pins his hands.

These crimson glowing eyes and curved smile speak alone that he won’t be released from this feline’s grasp until he is satisfied.

When Shiki’s knee parts his partner’s legs until it touches his groin, the silver-haired swordsman only stares at him.

In the end, as he leans close, Akira admits his defeat.

 


 

Some time passed. It is the middle of the starry night.

Meanwhile, Akira lazily lies in bed and waits for his partner to return.

Apparently, this time Shiki grabbed his clothes and left him immediately instead of resting together for a bit longer or until he was asleep.

It’s not that they are a couple or anything. Nor that Shiki is obligated to take care of him after sex. Akira perfectly understands that, but he often wonders who are they for each other.

After all, it’s not just an ordinary rivalry or a ridiculous thing like a relationship with benefits.

Despite that, the blue-eyed male knows one thing for sure - he craves for Shiki’s touch.

It may be only his selfish thought, but for Akira, it’s an inseparable part after each encounter because he feels assured.

More so, it’s another way of showing what Shiki should be looking forward to before another match and fixating his attention just for him.

Nevertheless, the blue-eyed male is worried about his partner's abrupt departure and his own unconscious attempt to hold on to him, all while experiencing these irrational emotions.

Speaking of which, the sound of the opened bathroom door startles him. Despite that, his eyes follow the approaching red-eyed male.

After Shiki sits next to him, Akira looks for anything to put on. As he holds the pair of underwear and puts it on, addresses his partner without bothering to look at him. “You’re finally done? Then, I’m going.”

Lastly, after he picks up his clothes and gets up, he heads towards the bathroom.

 


 

After Akira turns the shower, he lets the warm water stream to wash him.

Of course, when he’ll return, there shouldn’t be any traces of Shiki left. It’s nothing unusual.

After all, none of them waste their breath to bid farewell before departing their ways. Besides, both know that eventually, their paths will cross again.

More importantly, they are neither friends nor lovers. So, there is no need for such an unnecessary thing.

On the other hand, it will be difficult for the blue-eyed swordsman to accept the fact that Shiki is already gone.

That’s right, Akira is secretly concerned that this reckless fool may risk his life again.

In the end, he grasps the small cross around his neck and stares at it.

 


 

Half an hour passed. After Akira leaves the bathroom, he is surprised to see Shiki still there. “What are you doing here?”

“Do you always take so long in the shower?” The dark-haired swordsman asks while he sits on the bed with his legs and arms closed.

“That is none of your concern. Besides, you didn’t need to wait for me if wanted to leave. Unless, you forgot something.” Akira backfires as he keeps his poker face and gets closer to his partner.

“You.” Shiki briefly replies.

Akira only raises his eyebrow. “Huh?”

For now, Shiki gives a satisfied look. “Pack whatever you need, and I’ll take you together with me.”

“What do you mean by that?” The silver-haired swordsman asks.

After Shiki stands up, he grasps Akira’s cross and confesses. “I want you to stay by my side.”

Of course, the blue-eyed male didn’t expect to hear these words, and now he feels how the warmth fills his heart.

But for now, he closes his eyes and exhales. When he opens his eyes, he replies. “Knowing you, I wouldn’t you leave you because who knows how you’ll end up next time.”

After a brief pause, he continues. “So, even if you tried to get rid of me, I would still follow you and won’t let anyone to lay a finger on you. You belong to me and no else, got it?”

These words thrill Shiki, and he wraps his arm around his partner’s waist and brings him closer.

When Akira rests his palms on the red-eyed male’s chests, he narrows his blushing gaze. “Don’t get me wrong. Next time when you’ll be ready to face me like equal and giving your best, we’ll fight without needing to hold back. So, until then, it cannot be helped that I would need to watch you over.”

In the end, none of them say a single word. After all, there is no need for that. Meanwhile, Akira is secretly happy and relieved that he will protect Shiki.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: When the Fairy Tale Dies
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Characters: Shiki, Akira, Original Male Character
Pairing: Shiki x Akira, Akira & Original Male Character (one-sided)
Summary:

[This story was made as entry for September’s month N+C Archive Monthly Prompt Challenge.]
Private Tatsuya never believed nor experienced what love is. However, that smile… If only he had never seen it, he wouldn’t need to suffer the heartache and realize it would be his doom when it would be too late.
AO3 Link

2023 September’s writing prompt: “He wanted to tell him how much he loved him but”
Words: 2960


Click here to read

Another day, another daily morning checkup. That is just a part of the military secretary’s routine. Despite it being only an ordinary procedure, Akira treats it as a responsibility as the captain of his squad.

After all, no matter how big or small his task, he takes it seriously and carefully. Akira finds the greatest reward in not only preparing a proper report but also making the commander happy.

But for now, as he reads the next name on the list, he closes his eyes and frowns after he doesn’t receive an immediate answer.

“Tatsuya.” The silver-haired secretary repeats.

The rookie soldier gets startled, yet after he straightens his back, he responds in a confused voice. “Y-yes!”

“Haven’t you slept enough at home? Pay attention next time.” Akira reminds.

As soon as the entire squad either snorts or murmurs among themselves, it gets cut by the cold, piercing glare of the military secretary alone.

After he closes his eyes, he continues checking the list.

Meanwhile, the scolded brunette lowers his head, wondering how someone almost the same age as him, if not younger, is already acting like a cold, bitter old man who never lived a day as a human.

More so, he heard the rumors that even off his duties, Akira kept that strict, stoic posture and married his job.

He can't use his position to treat people badly or expect too much from new recruits. Tatsuya thinks while remembering his sore arms and back from the captain’s last punishment.

Apparently, last week, he was late for only five minutes.

Yet, the military secretary didn’t bother to listen to any excuses and made him stand outside the corridor holding a water bucket in each arm without lowering them.

One thing was enduring the weight, and another was being an entertainment for anyone who passed by.

The captain was a demon who enjoyed torturing anyone for the tiniest mistakes. Tatsuya was convinced. Soon, he completely changed his mind.

A few days ago, he was minding his own business until he accidentally saw Captain Akira carrying a pile of papers and stopping for a bit.

At first glance, it may look like nothing unusual. However, something caught the brunette’s eye.

When the secretary checked the documents, his stone-cold face changed by something that might be considered impossible and even out of the mortal realm.

Apparently, the silver-haired male softened his gaze and smiled when his fingers picked one of the papers without caring about anyone in the world.

Of course, Tatsuya was in awe by spotting that the captain was showing human emotions and realizing that he witnessed a miracle.

Unfortunately, such a sight lasted as long as a shooting star. Thus, when the blue-eyed male fixed the papers, he returned to the known preserved secretary.

Despite this moment being brief, it left a lasting impression on the rookie soldier, who couldn’t stop thinking about it and longed to see it again.

Back to the present. Some time passes, and it’s finally the afternoon.

Today, the brunette hopes he’ll break the ice between them and befriend the captain.

From what he heard, Akira should prepare and serve the afternoon’s tea and snacks around this time. If so, perhaps, if he is in a better mood, he might spare even a single minute of his precious time.

Of course, if they won’t miss each other, which would be a shame. After all, the brunette had to pay one of the soldiers to cover his back to skip the duties. Or so Tatsuya thinks to himself.

The blue-eyed secretary leaves the kitchen with the goods and goes to the commander's office, unaware of being followed.

A few minutes pass. Finally, it’s the moment of truth!

After the brunette fixes the collar of his shirt and takes a deep breath, he approaches his unsuspecting captain. “Captain. Um, there is something I need to talk about with you.”

Akira only glimpses at him before shooing him. “Did anything happen? Whatever it is, if that is not urgent, it can wait.”

Yet, the rookie soldier is more stubborn and doesn’t give up.

“Captain, that looks heavy. So, let me help you.” The brunette insists.

However, as he is about to take the tray, Akira stops and gracefully lifts it.

“No, thank you. I can handle it on my own.” The silver-haired secretary declines.

After he lowers his arms, he raises an eyebrow. “By the way, if I’m not mistaken, there is supposed to be a first aid course in the afternoon. So, what are you doing here?”

“Shit, that’s no good! I’m deep in trouble now. He’s going to ditch me for real. Mom, Dad, sorry for disappointing you.” Tatsuya bethinks when Akira narrows his gaze, judging him like a criminal and waiting for his explanation.

After a temporary pause, the secretary closes his eyes and sighs.

Lastly, he addresses Tatsuya. “I wouldn’t have arranged these courses if that was a waste of time. It’s a crucial skill that is mandatory to know because it will help you to survive. More importantly, instead of fleeing away and abandoning your team like a coward, you could save someone’s life and have a higher chance of defeating the enemy.”

The brunette only lowers his head like a scolded puppy. “Y-yes, sir… Then, I will be going!”. Despite convincing himself that he should be glad he paid off only getting lectured, he is more upset that his plan didn’t work.

Perhaps another day will be better. Tatsuya ponders while heading back to the auditorium. Right now, he takes it as a defeat in the fight but not in the battle and plans for another move.

 


 

Another day, another chance. This time, the brunette plans to wait as soon as his break starts and check if the captain is in his office.

Suddenly, the morning checkup is interrupted by someone opening the gate.

While Tatsuya is as perplexed as anyone else in his squad, he observes how Akira salutes the approaching commander without hesitation or fear, only showing pure respect for this man.

“I beg your pardon, sir. It’s a huge honor that you decided to pay a visit. But what brings you here?” The reserved secretary asks.

Perhaps the captain is numb or lucky not to feel Shiki’s lingering, menacing, cold energy. The brunette wonders.

“Do I ever needed any excuses to check on anyone?” The red-eyed male asks.

“No. Not all, sir,” Akira politely replies.

Lastly, the commander orders. “Good. Continue your work.”

Meanwhile, the brunette feels nervous about Shiki’s presence alone, and he can swear that the commander isn’t that focused on the captain, as he is waiting for any soldier to make a single wrong move or breath at the wrong time.

More so, he doesn’t understand how the military secretary acts as if the most powerful man in the country is not next to him.

 


 

Some time passed. Finally, it’s time for the break.

Who knew that the military tyrant was much scarier in person than he heard? In any case, his plan should go smoothly, and it was only a once-in-a-lifetime experience to encounter That Man. Tatsuya wonders as he shrugs at the thought of Shiki alone while wandering in the corridor.

Speaking of which...

Apparently, as he gets closer, he notices Akira leaning against the wall next to his office door while being cornered by Shiki, talking about something.

Soon enough, the military tyrant wraps his arm around his subordinate’s waist and brings him closer.

More so, the brunette cannot unsee the commander’s possessive eyes focusing on his prey while placing his palm on his cheek, nor how the captain is calm.

At this point, Tatsuya feels he is walking into the wrong place at the wrong time. Therefore, it might be wiser to turn back and withdraw.

When he turns his head, he notices Shiki is giving him a victorious glare as a giant feline who shows its conquered territory while the once-serious secretary closes his eyes and submits to the supreme ruler.

That fucking ugly bastard is using his power to take advantage of Akira! So, who knows how long the captain was enduring this? However, he cannot do much in his current position nor oppose the supreme leader without risking his and his family’s life. Tatsuya realizes as his rage grows.

Despite that, the brunette has a powerful urge to snap out of Akira and make him realize he needs someone better who would treasure him instead of bullying him. Someone who will protect him and keep him safe from the rest of the world.

 


 

And thus, a few days pass.

Perhaps the captain will change his mind and go out with him today. After all, it’s Friday, and it should be fine to relax by the end of the week. The brunette thinks to himself while following Akira from a distance.

 


 

For now, the unsuspecting military secretary’s eyes carefully scan through the bookshelves. As his fingers gently run through each book, his hand gracefully picks the wanted item.

However, the silver-haired male widens his eyes upon hearing a familiar voice behind him. “There have you been, captain. I was looking for you for a while.”

A second later, he closes his eyes and briefly exhales before facing a certain soldier.

“What you want?” Akira strictly asks.

“Um, I want to ask you one thing. You see… I was meaning to do it earlier, but I didn’t know how to say it and you seem to be always so busy…” Tatsuya replies while rubbing his nape and lowering his head.

“You can tell me whatever it is.” The silver-haired secretary replies.

As Tatsuya straightens his back, he clenches his hands into fists and announces. “Please, go out with me!”

When the blue-eyed secretary steps back, he raises his eyebrow and hugs the held books. “Huh?”

After noticing such a genial reaction, the brunette shakily raises his palms and defends himself. “I, I didn’t mean that way!… What I meant is… Well, not quite that but…”

While he observes the doubting secretary, he proposes. “You know, I thought maybe we could go out for a couple of drinks and have a good time. You’ve been so tensed and maybe that could help to forget about the job or the commander, even if that is for a moment.”

After hearing these words, even the preserved military secretary’s poker face slightly cracks and frowns. Yet, he does his best to contain his emotions and holds back from the violence.

When Akira closes his eyes and lifts his head, he walks by the pesky soldier. “If you have nothing to say and are planning to waste my time, I’m leaving.”

Suddenly, Akira widens his eyes and stops as someone grabs his arm.

“Wait! I… I didn’t mean to upset you. All I want is to help you because… because I care about you, -er, I mean your well-being.” The brunette confesses while giving a begging gaze.

The silver-haired male only narrows his gaze and immediately brushes his arm. “Let me go.”

When he reaches the exit door and places his hand on the handle, it freezes after hearing Tatsuya’s comment. “I know that the commander harasses you. I saw it several times.”

For sure, it makes Akira’s heart drop down on his heels, and his stomach twists. Despite that, he turns back and keeps a serious face.

Meanwhile, the brunette gives a concerned look. “You don’t need to pretend that you have the feelings for that twisted bastard or endure it. I don’t like how someone touches you. That coward is using his power and taking advantage of your naiveness. It’s not alright. Just because the commander sees you as his personal whore, you don’t have to pretend to be one. But I’m here for you and to support you because, because I…”

He wanted to tell him how much he loved him, but… if only it was that simple.

Firstly, Tatsuya understands that both of them have different positions of power. After all, he is just a private soldier, and Akira is the right hand of the most powerful man in the country.

Therefore, it’s understandable if the secretary won’t want to ruin his reputation by messing around with a low-rank soldier like him.

Secondly, what if the blue-eyed male’s heart is taken by someone else? There is a chance that his precious captain doesn’t feel the same.

More importantly, what if Akira was disgusted by something weird and gross as another guy confessing his feelings to him?

But for now, Akira only gives a questioning look and approaches him.

On the other hand, it seems that luck is on the brunette’s side.

Perhaps his words reached his adored person’s heart. Or so Tatsuya believes when the military secretary silently stares at him and extends his palm to touch his cheek. “…Captain.”

Suddenly, the harsh sound of slapping echoes through the entire library.

While the brunette remains shocked, Akira gives him a cold shoulder. “Keep your foul thoughts to yourself. This time, I’ll let you go with a warning. However, if such behavior repeats in the future, the outcome will be different. Please, think twice before opening your mouth.”

In the end, Private Tatsuya is left alone with a pulsing sensation of the stinging pain on his cheek and betrayal. Nevertheless, it only makes him desire Akira much more.

After all, the captain is brainwashed and manipulated by the commander. Yet, the blue-eyed male did this to protect him, didn’t he?

Therefore, he must free Akira from that twisted man’s claws and make him realize what is good for him. Soon, Commander Shiki should face his downfall and pay for what he has done. Or so the brunette realizes while scheming how to achieve his plan.

 


 

It’s the beginning of another week. This time, the brunette uses his chance when Akira has an important meeting with the commander and other high-ranking officers.

That’s why, when no one is around, Tatsuya picks a small flathead screwdriver and a thin nail file and begins to break the locked office door.

Of course, he has to work carefully, but fast. Otherwise, he’ll get caught in the same spot.

Gladly, it’s not a complicated lock compared to what he had picked in his childhood. Or so the brunette thinks as, eventually, he hears the cracking noise.

And thus, without wasting time, he enters the commander’s office.

For now, all he left is to wait until Shiki shows up to strike him.

So, it’s only a matter of time before the captain will be rescued and safe from that awful man. Or so Tatsuya convinces to himself as he takes the combat knife from the side of his belt and stares at the naked blade.

 


 

Some time passed. Suddenly, the brunette is alerted by the opening door.

Despite having a loud heartbeat, he takes a deep breath and grasps the knife.

One sudden move and the blade sinks into his enemy.

However, Tatsuya becomes pale and freezes in terror upon hearing a yelp and barely comprehends what he has done.

While Akira’s face twists in pain, he shakily places his gloved palm around the stabbed shoulder. “Co… commander… run! It’s… it’s a trap…”

Just before the military secretary collapses, Shiki manages to wrap his arms from behind and slowly sits Akira against the wall.

Soon enough, the commander’s face darkens, and lowers his head. After he stands up, he turns around and pulls the sword from the sheath.

At that moment, the rookie soldier shakes his head while muttering and stepping back.

Even if he tripped over, he desperately crawls backward, begging for forgiveness, and without removing his eyes from Shiki, who radiates a pure fury and hatred for his opponent.

“That’s your last words, you filthy trash?” The red-eyed male growls.

However, just before Shiki swings the blade and slays the terrified soldier, he is stopped by his secretary’s voice. “Not yet, sir!”

The supreme ruler turns his gaze at his secretary.

But for now, he listens to his wounded subordinate, who remains professional even in situations like this. “You can do whatever you please with that traitor, sir. However… however, first, I need to know how… how did he get here… Or… or if someone else helped him.”

Yet, instead of wasting time on unnecessary sentiments, Shiki cracks a smile and fixates his attention on the brunette.

Now, he aims at the same hand that hurt his precious secretary and cuts it.

As Tatsuya screams, he covers the lost limb and pleads for mercy.

Meanwhile, Shiki remains indifferent to the brunette’s suffering and looks down on him. “Pathetic. A worm like you don’t even deserve to die.”

A second later, he curves a sadistic smile. “…Not yet.”

When the military tyrant proudly turns around, he walks toward the injured secretary to pick him up. And thus, Tatsuya is left alone.

Eventually, a group of officers shows up. As the brunette’s cut arm gets aided, he listens to how one of these men briefly informs him about his incoming punishment tomorrow and how he’ll need to answer a few questions for the supreme ruler.

In the end, Tatsuya remains silent and closes his eyes as he gets lifted and dragged to the interrogation room. At that moment, he realizes that his death is inevitable and he should accept it.

After all, Tatsuya was so blinded by the rage and bloodlust that he didn’t realize he’d end up harming the person he swore to protect. Therefore, that’s his price to pay before reaching the gateway to hell. Or so the brunette wonders as he gets closer and closer, reaching the interrogation room.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: When the Bloody Moon Rises (chapter 8)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Characters: Akira, Keisuke, Emma, Gwen, Shiki, Nano
Status: Completed (12 Chapters)
Rating: +18 (Smut, suggestive themes, violence)
Summary:

One day, an excellent reputation, vampire hunter Akira is falsely accused of murdering an innocent person. Fortunately, the church offers him to prove his innocence by defeating the evil vampire lord Il Re.
And thus, the silver-haired hunter sets on the new journey. Will he be able to do it?
Read and find out~
AO3 Link

Click here to read

A couple of hours pass. After Shiki washes the still unconscious Akira, he carries him to the bedroom and puts him into a gray pajama.

As the vampire observes his peacefully sleeping partner, he brushes his hair from his face.

Despite his unexplained warm emotions upon seeing Akira, he is determined to keep his prized possession close and protect him.

More so, the bite marks on the hunter’s body prove he belongs to him and no one else.

He even carried Akira to his personal bath to wash him safely. After all, pure water - be it a holy one or not, irritates his skin, and if he stays longer in it, it can leave terrible rashes and burn him.

On the other hand, mixing the water with aromatic herb oil negates its effect. Therefore, the vampire could take care of his human.

But for now, while Shiki enjoys the lingering herb scent on Akira, he tucks him under the blanket. Human life is fragile.

More so, it will be troublesome if anything bad happens to him. He denies developing stronger feelings for the blue-eyed male and resisting the urge to give him more attention.

These thoughts are nothing more than irrational and should be gone soon. Something that only weak, selfish, and stupid creatures like humans would waste time on it. Or so the red-eyed vampire convinces himself. Yet, such cold logic fails when it comes to the silver-haired hunter.

In the past, he did not need to bother himself with anything even remotely close to this nonsense. That’s why,  he is anxious about something he cannot explain.

For now, Shiki sits next to slumbering Akira.

However, accusing Akira of trying to befriend and kill him is pointless and childish.

More so, the silver-haired male hasn’t such ulterior motives nor has any acting skills, and Shiki can see through him as a clear glass.

As Shiki picks the small, silver cross from his pants pocket, he studies it and remembers. When he brought Akira to the inner quarters for the first time, he returned to the master room to retrieve this holy relic.

He wondered why this person relied on it and used it as a last resort to defend himself. It wasn’t even blessed, nor did it possess any secret power that only legendary hunters could unleash. It was about as useful as a fifth leg would be to a dog.

That’s why Shiki took it to the alchemy laboratory to learn the truth behind it.

After he prepared all the needed instruments, he turned on the gas lighter and dropped the necklace into the testing tube. As the bright blue flame wrapped the bottom of the tube, this piece of jewelry melts.

However, Shiki turned off the lighter immediately when he saw something inside the cross. Upon pouring the molten metal on the testing plate, he observed it.

The noble creature of the night cracked a smile. Someone implanted a tiny tracking device in it. In the end, Shiki picked up his katana and smashed the device by its handle.

That should let anyone know that they should give up. After all, their sent pawn is dead.

But for now, the vampire plays with the hunter’s cross between his fingers and wonders.

The blue-eyed male wasn’t just here to kill him and get a generous bounty. If so, he wouldn’t receive a mere decoration like this.

Someone wanted Akira to infiltrate the castle for whatever reason. Well, whoever is the mastermind behind this, and if their goal is still unclear, it doesn’t matter.

On the other hand, the longer Akira stays in the castle, the more often Shiki senses an overfamiliar presence that lurks somewhere in the darkest shadows. That dark, chilling energy that cannot be mistaken for anyone else.

No, that cruel entity didn’t return to haunt him, not just after unbearable humiliation a long time ago. That demonic creature doesn’t stalk him to taunt him or laugh at him, and Shiki knows that.

Within time, the dark-haired male realized that HE momentarily appeared and watched Akira over, somewhere in the distance, with his changing color, glowing eyes.

Suddenly, Shiki grasps the cross and grinds his teeth, just knowing how day by day this creature gets closer, yet HIS presence instantly vanishes when Shiki chases HIM.

More importantly, after he took down another challenger yesterday, was no exception.

After he facepalms and fixes his hair, he opens his eyes and puts the small cross into his pocket.

For now, the red-eyed vampire stares at Akira, wondering what could be so special about this human that he even attracts his long-time-forgotten enemy after many years.

He is a troublemaker who has a significant talent for finding problems where they don’t exist. Secondly, his blood has an extraordinary taste that no mortal ever has. He can’t even hold a sword.

Yet, there is something unexplainable about the silver-haired male that keeps even a merciless, dark ruler of the night attracted to him.

It even makes Shiki give in to the morbid curiosity that he barely felt before and desiring him.

In the end, the vampire considers granting this human wish. Even if it’s Shiki’s personal whim, he wants to see how far he can push the hunter’s limits and how he’ll grow. Maybe someday, the vampire allow him to face him again, but without holding back.

Perhaps, this time, the outcome of their fight could be different. Who knows?

But for now, before taking his leave and dealing with another pesky challenger, he almost touches Akira’s cheek. Even so, he withdraws his palm and himself and freezes at the last moment.

He doesn’t understand why he did such a stupid thing, as if he instinctively did it. In the end, he only exhales and leaves the room.

 


 

Some time passes. Finally, the blue-eyed male wakes up. When he sits, he closes his eyes and sighs.

He is certain - that the pesky shape-shifting creature is not here.

Of course, he isn’t. Why should he be here?

Maybe he is hunting for new prey or playing with his target before finishing it. After completing his daily tasks, the vampire turns into a panther and spends time with the silver-haired man before sleeping on him.

Then, a new day will arise, and the same circle will repeat until Shiki drains him to death or gets bored by him and replaces him.

After all, what is a human’s life for the immortal? It’s nothing more than dust in the desert. A mere blink compared to the timeless life-span of noble creatures of the night that fought more battles than there are stars in the sky.

Therefore, anyone else temporal life means nothing for vampires or demons. Besides, why would such creatures feel any emotional connection towards a mere source of nutrients? A wolf would never cry after eating sheep. Otherwise, such a predator won’t survive in nature.

So, Shiki should be like any other of his kind - just a cold-blooded killing machine, as Akira is just another prey for him.

Despite that, the blue-eyed hunter cannot accept being slowly eaten alive. At least his remains of pride refuse. He acknowledges that he stands no chance of fighting and winning against the vampire.

Even so, Akira continues to prove that he is not a vampire’s toy, nor anyone will break his will.

Hell, he is aware that he cannot leave the castle, nor he wants it anymore. More so, if he outlives Shiki somehow, he’ll make it into his new fortress, desolated by the outside world. Even the idea of the solitary life as the ruler of the vampire’s castle strangely comforts him.

But for now, he widens his eyes by hearing a familiar voice. “You are finally awake. Took you long enough.”

Upon turning his head, Akira notices the vampire leaning against the wall next to the door with his arms crossed. The first thing that catches his eye is that aside from not wearing his long coat nor carrying his sword, Shiki is more chilled than usual.

Suddenly, the memories of yesterday flow inside the hunter’s mind, and his poker face cracks. As he feels the rushing heat to his cheeks, he asks. “Why are you here? It’s still too early for you to annoy me.”

Such a reaction amuses the ebony-haired man, who smirks like a feline.

“What do you want from me?” The silver-haired man inquires without removing his eyes from his partner, who approaches him.

After he lowers his gaze, he spots a familiar katana resting against the night-drawer. Instead of using it against its owner, he gives a mildly bewildered look as he asks how long it has been there.

Soon, he complains. “Why is it here and can you stop using your vampire charms for once? Because their effect is growing weaker.”

No matter how he is tempted to tease his partner, he holds back from commenting. Besides, if this is what he wants to believe, let him be. Or so decides the vampire.

After a temporary pause, he sits next to Akira and asks. “Your name?”

The hunter is confused by his partner’s question. For now, he lowers his gaze while grasping the blanket without understanding Shiki’s ulterior motives.

Yet, without receiving the wanted answers, the vampire remains persistent and leans closer. “Come on. Just say it.”

In the end, Akira glimpses at him before closing his eyes and replying in a humble voice. “Akira.”

Meanwhile, Shiki delightfully stares at the hunter and repeats the hunter’s name as if it were a newly learned foreign word. A second later, he remarks. “… Someone who can be bent but cannot be broken.”

However, the silver-haired male uses his chance while Shiki is in a better mood and replies. “Then you also owe me some answers.”

“What is it?” The red-eyed swordsman asks.

As Akira fixates his eyes on his partner, he states. “You took too long to deal with the previous challenger.”

Shiki only closes his eyes and cracks a smile. “Hmph. Were you worrying about your master’s well-being?”

It was a last drop of Akira’s patience, and he scolds the vampire. “Cut it out and take it seriously!…”.

When he notices how the smug look on Shiki’s face was wiped, he realizes that is screwed. Nevertheless, he continues. “You wouldn’t just show up as a panther and behaved as you did, if that was a mere hunter. Something terrible happened. I don’t know what it is, but I don’t like it.”

He feels that he angered the vampire. Yet, he refuses to close his eyes or shrug. For now, he slightly withdraws and nervously swallows the saliva while staring at Shiki, whose face darkens.

After a minute of intense silence, the dark-haired male turns his head away and replies. “It’s none of your concern.”

“If you throw your life away recklessly without saying a word, it is.” Akira backfires.

Shiki only closes his eyes and silently chuckles while shaking his head. “Idiot…”

When he lifts his head and opens his eyes, he explains. “What happened in the past should not concern you… No matter what madness of one man you saw or if that may come back to haunt you. So, get rid of useless emotions if you want to become strong to take your revenge.”

The blue-eyed hunter is clueless why Shiki is telling all this, nor what it could mean. Despite that, he genially asks. “But it happened now. Does it have anything to do with that person? Do I know him?”

In the end, the vampire turns his head to face his partner. “All you need to know is that you are a trouble-maker that cannot be left alone.”

After a brief pause, he gets up and orders. “Either way… Get up. We’re leaving.”

“Where?” The silver-haired hunter asks.

“You need to eat. Then we’ll start on your training.” Shiki briefly explains.

Of course, it doesn’t sound too promising for Akira. More so, knowing Shiki by far, it could mean anything.

But he understands the vampire won’t leave him alone until he gets what he wants. In the end, he closes his eyes and removes the blanket.

When he gets up, he covers his sore bottom with his palm. For now, he gives a slightly irritated look to Shiki, who remarks. “If it is too early for you to walk, maybe your training should be delayed.”

However, Akira only lifts his head and walks towards the closet. After he picks the dark bathrobe, he puts it on. “And then, you gonna show up the next day asking for the same thing. So, let’s just get going.”

When the silver-haired male fixes the bathrobe, he walks by Shiki and prompts him by the gaze of his blue eyes alone.

For sure, such a gesture satisfies the red-eyed vampire. After all, his human becoming more confident.

 


 

An hour passes. After the hunter finishes his meal, he changes into Shiki’s left clothes for him. The outfit he received this time was the same Victorian-era one as before. The only difference was that there was also a pair of leather gloves, and instead of a cotton vest, this one was made from sturdy leather.

Of course, Shiki also mentioned it would be useful during the training. After all, Akira still has no idea what his partner meant by training. More so, knowing the vampire’s nature, it could be anything.

Nevertheless, he is more curious than concerned, even if that might be the ebony-haired male’s other way of teasing him.

Currently, the silver-haired hunter enjoys leaving the inner quarters. Even though he is supervised by Shiki.

After wandering in the castle corridors, they reach an old oak door and enter inside.

Akira's intuition alerts him as he feels the coldness in the air and notices the only light source is fire torches on the stone walls, indicating something is suspicious.

Suddenly, the gentle push on his lower back returns him to his senses, and he turns his head to meet the crimson eyes that suggest he shouldn’t stay behind.

And thus, he doesn’t leave the vampire’s side and goes down this endless spiral staircase.

Fortunately, it doesn’t take long to reach a small corridor branching to two sides. On the left and the right side, there are doors.

But for now, Akira follows Shiki to whatever is behind the door on the left.

Apparently, it’s a medieval-style weaponry storage.

For sure, the blue-eyed hunter had never witnessed such a vast collection of weapons, ranging from combat knives to spears, swords, whips, long axes, and much more. There were even a few modern shotguns on the shelves, and who knows what else was hidden in the sealed wooden boxes.

Hell, any of his visited weapon shops could only dream about this place.

Either way, he doesn’t understand why Shiki would ever need such weaponry. On the other hand, it won’t be surprising that it might be just his trophy collection from his defeated enemies.

Meanwhile, the vampire addresses his partner before going deeper into the storage. “Just wait here.”

Lastly, he observes how his partner searches for a specific item. After he returns carrying a familiar-looking katana, he tosses it at him. “Here.”

Even after Akira catches it in his hands, he raises his eyebrow while studying the given weapon.

“It should do it for now.” The vampire calmly adds while passing him by. Just before opening the door, he turns his head, asking the hunter to follow him.

 


 

A few minutes pass by.

Upon entering the right door, the hunter is welcomed by a long corridor adorned with crossed weapons and warrior statues in various battle positions.

Of course, another detail that catches his eye is the several locked cells on each side. After glimpsing through the gaps of the bars on the top, inside some cells, there are hanging skeletons or exhausted, wounded prisoners.

Suddenly, the silver-haired male is alerted when he hears the rattling bars or groaning like undead.

However, the vampire explains. “Ignore them. These are weaklings who have broken the game rules or went against me.”

“What game?” The hunter gives him a curious look.

Shiki only briefly cracks a smile. “Next time, I’ll take you with me and show you.”

As they walk further, the previous voices shut down after not receiving attention from the silver-haired male.

After a while, they finally reach an old elevator covered in red rust, which reminds a large cage. Even behind it, there is visible an extension of this corridor.

Soon enough, the elevator automatically opens while creaking. Surely, it doesn’t look trustworthy. They won’t use it, right? Or so Akira hopes so.

Yet, the vampire gives him an indifferent look. “What are you doing? Get inside.”

No matter how the hunter wants to protest, he plays along.

Suddenly, the elevator closes the door from both sides, and it slowly goes up. Surprisingly, aside from the loud gear and chain grinding, it runs smoothly.

When the elevator arrives at the second floor, it stops and opens the door to let out all the passengers.

This floor differs from the previous one because there are no prisoner cells, only a tall gate securing something behind the wooden lock. And thus, Shiki lifts it.

After being greeted by a couple of hooded men in robes, they enter deep into the spacious field.

As Shiki leans against the wall, he addresses his partner. “What are you waiting for? Your training starts now!”

“What are you?-” Akira speaks up before he gets alerted when the ground trembles and a group of new enemies emerge.

Suddenly, the undead bandits charge at him.

The silver-haired hunter closes his eyes and cuts the zombies with a heavy slash. Upon the bloodstream, the dead howl before hitting the ground.

Soon enough, the necromancers raise their arms and cast another spell.

As Akira pants and opens his eyes, an additional threat arises - this time, a couple of armored skeletons surround him.

For sure, the luck is on his side, and he dodges the double attack. Lastly, he grasps the sword and uses a lower strike.

Meanwhile, Shiki only studies his partner’s movement while he takes down another target and exhales. After all, the hunter leaves so many open spots while relying on aimless swinging like an amateur.

The more he observes Akira, the more he notes what flaws he should fix. Yet, he is mildly entertained watching this human who keeps fighting and refuses to give up or ask for help.

Finally, the last challenger shows up. Apparently, it’s a few meters tall armor knight wielding a chained steel ball.

As the monster stares at its victim with white glowing orbs through the gaps of the helmet, it roars and swings the chain into the air.

Even so, Akira nearly gets crushed by a thrown metal ball.

Soon, the creature brings the chain close to it.

One thing is for sure, it will be difficult to approach the enemy from such a distance.

However, his further thoughts are interrupted by another heavy attack and the armored knight taking a few steps closer to him.

Crushing strike after crushing strike and the hunter’s energy is nearly drained from dodging and rolling. It might be a matter of time before he passes out.

Even so, he wants to try one idea which may kill him.

As Akira stands up, he waits for the armored knight to swing its chain.

When the heavy ball is thrown at him, Akira shakily closes his eyes and slides forward into the beast. While his opponent is busy withdrawing his weapon, the hunter picks up his sword and slashes the creature’s arm that holds the chain.

After the armored knight howls after the lost limb, it punches the stunned hunter and sends him flying off across the arena.

As Akira’s back harshly hits the wall, he gasps before collapsing. All he can do is lie on the ground while the armored knight picks up the chain with his remaining arm and approaches him.

When the vampire is about to draw his blade, he is immediately stopped by the silver-haired hunter’s voice. “It’s not over yet! I can still move…”

Meanwhile, before necromancers are about to summon a new enemy, Shiki gives them a cold, piercing look. “Begone!”.

Thus, a couple of robbed men raise their hands, and as the darkness surrounds them, they disappear like smoke.

Finally, while the creature swings its arm with an iron ball, Akira shakily leans on his elbows and stares at his opponent with a determined gaze.

Suddenly, the diagonal slash cuts it in half. Just before the beast collapses, Akira widens his eyes as he is carried far away from the fallen enemy.

In the end, he realizes he is in the vampire’s arms upon hearing him. “I’ve seen enough…”

More so, from his serious face and voice alone, he knows that he disappointed Shiki.

However, he has no idea why it hurts him more than his still-aching body. For now, he turns his head away and waits until they return to the bedroom, where he can rest without needing to face Shiki.

After the vampire sighs, he addresses his partner. “You can rest for today… You earned it.”

In the meantime, Akira is confused if his senses tricked him or whether he misheard the last part.

Of course, he wants to object, but the best thing he can do is cling to Shiki’s shirt with one hand.

For sure, such a gesture thrills the dark-haired swordsman. “What is it with you? I would just check your wounds first.”

While Akira is being carried, he only closes his eyes and buries his face in the vampire’s chest. After all, he doesn’t understand why he is genuinely relieved and feeling that inner warmth for the first time. However, at the moment, he doesn’t mind this feeling.

 


 

Another day begins, and thus, Shiki takes Akira to the arena for the training. Of course, the hunter mentally prepares himself for what kind of monsters he may need to face this time.

However, there are no necromancers, nor anyone else aside from this couple.

Perhaps, today, the lord of darkness decided to use him as his training dummy. The hunter wonders while they are getting closer to the arena’s center.

Instead, he hears a brief demand. “Show me how you swing sword.”

“Huh? Didn’t see enough yesterday?” The silver-haired hunter complains.

After the hunter draws his blade, he swings it high until the tip of it almost touches his back. Suddenly, he lands a heavy strike.

“Did I ask you to chop the wood? Try one more time.” The vampire comments.

Meanwhile, Akira gives an annoyed look and raises the sword again. Yet, he panics when he feels Shiki’s body pressing against his back. As he turns his head and lowers the blade, he addresses his partner. “What are you?-”

“Straighten your back and raise your head.” Shiki orders while he holds Akira’s chin with one hand and makes him face forward. When he wraps his other arm around his partner’s waist, he fixes his posture and continues. “Never swing your weapon above your head. You’ll only exhaust yourself without dealing any damage.”

After the red-eyed swordsman gracefully leaves his side, he instructs. “Try again.”

Lastly, Akira closes his eyes and exhales. Lastly, he follows the orders and… Slash! His strike is successful.

For sure, it satisfies the nocturnal creature, and he crosses his arms. “Again. Repeat it until I say so.”

No matter how the blue-eyed male doesn’t like taking orders, he doesn’t argue, and slash after slash, he continues this movement.

Later, Shiki worked on improving his partner’s lower and high guard and stance. It’s still far from perfect and needs to be corrected. However, the vampire is impressed by how Akira is a quick learner and catches up with given instructions.

In this case, he will test the hunter’s skills again sooner than expected. Perhaps he would even let him go through the obstacle course. Who knows?…

But for now, Akira’s training continues.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: A Fleeting Respite (chapter 2)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (3 Chapters)
Summary:

[This story is set after the Cat and Mouse ending aka Shiki’s ED2 (the PSP/PS2 version)]
Akira knew that something was off about Shiki during their usual sword-fight, and he didn’t like it all. However, as soon as he found out the reason behind it…
AO3 Link



Click here to read

Some time passes, and the blue-eyed assassin wakes up. However, something is off. Akira feels so warm and has plenty of space to move around.

After he opens his eyes and sits, he notices he is tucked under the blanket.

Was he asleep? And for how long? Or so Akira wonders.

When he looks around, he notices that the room is tidy. More importantly, a certain swordsman is missing. But he also notices a katana resting close to his in the corner.

That is enough to convince him that Shiki is not far away. Nevertheless, the silver-haired man is getting anxious, because where is his partner?

Either way, it’s pointless to worry or overthink too hard. This is what Akira decides as he gets up and heads to the bathroom.

Speaking of the devil, just as he is about to open the door, his instincts act quickly, and he avoids the door.

Firstly, he notices the singly dripping droplets from Shiki’s still-wet ebony locks. After Akira lifts his confused gaze until his blue eyes meet the crimson ones, he fixates on them while stepping back.

A second later, he closes his eyes and exhales. Just before leaving, he addresses his partner while keeping his face calm. “I’ll check how your wound is doing once I return.” Lastly, when the silver-haired man closes the bathroom door behind him, he leans against it and places a palm on his chest.

He doesn’t understand the burst of warmth inside his heart after seeing the red-eyed swordsman is alright and not hunting for revenge. But for now, Akira takes a shower, hoping it will brush away irrational emotions, as he refers to them.

A half-hour passes by. After the silver-haired man leaves the bathroom, he does his best to keep his poker face. Unfortunately, Shiki’s inquisitive gaze following him only makes it difficult for Akira.

After Akira picks a first aid kit from the night drawer, he sits on the bedside next to Shiki. Surprisingly, the dark-haired man isn’t resisting and allows his partner to lift his t-shirt and expose his chest.

Apparently, the bandage is missing. On the other hand, the sewn wound isn’t bleeding nor festering, and that relieves the blue-eyed assassin.

When he sprays the disinfectant on the injury area, he asks, “Why did you do this?”

Meanwhile, Shiki raises an eyebrow.

“Why do you have to be reckless?” The silver-haired man scolds while he covers the wound with the clean bandage. After he lowers his head, he adds, “…If I knew, I wouldn’t have challenged you.”

After a long pause, Shiki breaks the silence with a simple answer. “It’s what you wanted.”

Such an answer only makes the silver-haired man’s chest sore, and he bites his lower lip.

Suddenly, Akira grabs his partner’s t-shirt and brings him closer. “Would you jump from the rooftop if I did so? You may have died…” When he lifts his head and stares at Shiki, his eyes burn with rage. “I won’t forgive anyone who did this! Be it That Man, devil or god - I don’t care who! If I find that bastard, I’ll make him pay and murder him in cold blood!”

Finally, the blue-eyed male declares, “Then, I’ll remind you until your stupid head will understand that no one is allowed to interfere with us. Nor that anyone can even scratch you. You and your life belong to me!” Lastly, he widens his blue eyes and impatiently waits for his partner’s reaction.

After such a confession, Shiki remains speechless for a few moments. When he narrows his gaze and smirks, he replies, “Hmph. Is that so?”

Suddenly, Shiki pushes him down on the bed and restrains his wrists. After he climbs on top of the silver-haired assassin, he adds in a nearly purring voice, “However, you still lack discipline.”

As soon as Akira notices his partner’s suggestive look on his face and leans closer to him, he realizes that is screwed. While the warmth rushes to his cheeks, his heart beats loudly. Despite his position, he won’t allow this man to do as he wishes.

After the silver-haired man closes his eyes, he shakes off at least one hand. Suddenly, he covers Shiki’s face with it and does not let him get any closer while backfiring. “And you are still under my care, you fool! First, recover. Then, you can do as you wish.”

Meanwhile, the red-eyed swordsman is kept away like a feline who cannot reach the desired treat no matter how hard he tries. A few moments later, he grabs the wrist of the same arm that resists him and moves it aside.

After studying his partner’s questioning face, he climbs off Akira and sits on the bed's edge. Lastly, without looking back, he orders, “Get up. We are leaving.”

While the silver-haired male is dumbfounded and stares at Shiki, he half sits and replies, “Huh?”

“Unless you want to stay for longer,” Shiki suggests when he stands up and picks up his long coat and sword. After he attaches his blade, he turns his head and gives a demanding gaze. “What are you doing? You’re going with me.”

In the end, Akira remains silent, and after getting up, he also looks for his coat and weapon. He dislikes it when someone orders him around. On the other hand, he has planned to change the scenery soon.

Besides, it might lower their chance to encounter bounty hunters or other unwanted types. More importantly, it may let Akira protect his partner from threats.

“As if I’ll let him fight in his current state,” the silver-haired man thinks to himself as he fixes his coat and follows Shiki.


Some time passes. So far, their trip has been peaceful. However, after reaching the abandoned streets of the new location, Akira immediately stops walking and looks around.

The sound of rustling chains and metal alerts him, while his partner is apparently unbothered.

Suddenly, the silver-haired male widens his eyes as a group of feral crackheads rush at him and Shiki.

Without wasting time, he draws his blade and gracefully slashes his opponents with a few strikes.

As the bloody fountain splashes, the corpses hit the cold ground. Lastly, Akira wipes the dark crimson liquid from his sword and drops the stained tissue on his victim’s body.

For sure, that is nothing more than a waste of time. Or so the blue-eyed assassin muses as he puts the clean blade away.

Meanwhile, Shiki only silently observes without interfering. After all, it was a brief but amusing view for him.

But for now, the preserved blue-eyed killer’s growling stomach breaks the silence.

For sure, there cannot be a worse time than now. “Don’t say anything…” Akira thinks while he closes his eyes and frowns.

Unfortunately for him, his partner gives him a smug look. “Just wait for a bit longer and we should arrive soon.”

Instead of saying anything, the irritated blue-eyed male lifts his head and increases his speed. After he turns his head, he indignantly gazes at the dark-haired man, as if prompting something.

While Shiki continues getting entertained by his partner’s reaction, he exhales and fixes his hair.

Another hour passes. Finally, these travelers arrive at another more lively and civilized part of the city. Fortunately for them, there are even small shops close to it. Before settling in the new place, Akira insists they should get food and water supplies along with the first aid kit.

Surprisingly, the dark-haired man doesn’t mind and agrees. On the other hand, such unusual behavior slowly makes Akira anxious.

But for now, he brushes his suspicions aside and tries not to think too hard.

After a while, the couple reach the doorstep of the hotel. Perhaps it can be a decent place to rest for a few days, or at least until Shiki’s scar heals, and it will be safe to remove the suture.

Even if Shiki may try to move, he can be easily restrained or taken down until he calms down. Akira contemplates this as he fixes his coat’s collar and the backpack’s belts. Lastly, he pushes the door open.

When studying the traditional Western-style interior, which was commonly found in the highest quality hotels before the war, and the atmosphere alone, it’s clear that cheap criminals or average citizens cannot afford even to stand in such a place.

Certainly, it dawns on Akira that they walked into the wrong place. For now, he slightly shrugs and addresses the dark-haired man, “We should leave. There is no way we’ll be able to stay here without getting questioned.”

Shiki only closes his eyes and replies, “Nonsense. You worry too much.”

The silver-haired male only watches as his arrogant counterpart walks toward the receptionist’s table. “Don’t act like I haven’t warned you, you idiot,” he murmurs.

Meanwhile, when the receptionist notices that both sketchy incomers openly carry dangerous weapons, he fears for his life. It doesn’t help that one of them freely approaches him as if it’s his home.

Therefore, the trembling man remains polite and holds his hands, hoping it will drive away these strangers. “I’m terribly sorry to inform you, sir. Unfortunately, we do not have vacant rooms.” Yet, his warning is useless.

Suddenly, the red-eyed swordsman slams his hand on the counter and stares at the receptionist.

Even the passing personnel freeze in the same spot and turn their head toward the direction of the sudden noise. However, as quickly as it catches the staff’s attention, their curiosity disappears, and they continue their work.

Unfortunately, the receptionist is left alone to deal with violent guests. “Sir, I must ask you to leave. If you resist, I may also have no other choice than to call security or even the police,” the poor worker adds. While forcing himself to smile, the receptionist’s hand moves under the counter. Yet, he hesitates to press the alarm button out of fear.

After Shiki retrieves something from his pants pocket, he tosses it on the counter. “How much do you want?”

The scarred man’s heart suddenly drops to his heels as he stares at the thick pile of bills. He cannot comprehend what happened and how he is still alive.

Shiki fixates his demanding crimson eyes on the receptionist like a large feline looking down on a lowly insect. “Is that enough for you?” Meanwhile, the receptionist manages to nod.

“I won’t repeat myself twice. Give us the key to our room,” the dark-haired man threatens.

In the meantime, Akira only facepalms. “You fool… was that really necessary?”

Yet, Shiki remains unhinged and snatches the keys to their new room from the worker’s hand. Lastly, he turns toward the blue-eyed male.

As Akira rolls his eyes, he walks toward the counter and nags at the delighted swordsman. “You should be glad that we’re not kicked out yet.”

“You have a place to stay now. So, don’t complain,” the dark-haired man backfires.

In the end, Akira only sighs, and before leaving the reception room, he nods and silently apologizes for Shiki’s behavior. Besides, it would be wiser because it may reduce their chance of getting black-listed and having new enemies hunting them.


When they enter their room, Akira removes the backpack from his shoulders, throws it on the double-sized bed, and hangs his long coat on the hanger close to his partner’s.

After he sits next to Shiki on the bed, he opens the backpack and passes him a Solid. “Here.”

Yet, his partner crosses his arms and declines. “I don’t need it. So, you have it first.”

Akira only argues, “I will take it, but you need it more than I do. Why do you think I got more food this time? Who knows when the last time you’ve eaten something was… and it may help you to recover faster.”

In the end, the ebony-haired swordsman takes the offered bar from the same hand that treated his wound and removes the wrapping paper.

Seeing how this man takes from his hand reminds him of a proud feline who finally trusts him. He is also secretly relieved and glad that Shiki accepts his help.

However, Akira instantly picks up another Solid and unwraps it. As he lowers his head and eagerly munches on the omurice flavored bar, he hopes to hide his face before Shiki gets any weird ideas and teases him. And thus, Solids disappear one after another while the silver-haired man repeatedly checks that his partner is eating and not just sitting and waiting.

Several hours pass. It’s already past midnight, and both swordsmen are peacefully resting.

Of course, before calling it a day and going to bed, Akira stubbornly refuses to sleep on the same bed as Shiki.

One of his main reasons was that he might move during his sleep and accidentally open his partner’s scar, and how he prefers to sleep on the floor. Unfortunately, the dark-haired swordsman doesn’t buy into this.

When Akira picks the bedside closer to the window, he turns away and curls into a ball, while Shiki behaves like an actual cat and takes more than half of the bed.

But for now, the silver-haired man silently groans and lazily opens his eyes as he feels someone’s body pressing against his back and an arm thrown over him.

Moreover, someone’s hair is tickling his neck. Yet, he refuses to move and see if Shiki is doing this on purpose to annoy him or if it’s only an involuntary movement during his sleep.

If his partner is awake, the silver-haired man should stay still and not fall for his provocation. Firstly, he is too tired to deal with Shiki’s shenanigans. Secondly, his partner may ignore his wound and attempt to do something reckless… or so Akira convinces himself while he lies on his side.

As soon as he feels how the dark-haired man tightens his hug, he murmurs, “What are you-?” Despite that, he doesn’t receive a response, apart from Shiki weakly exhaling before returning to silence.

“So, is he asleep? If he doesn’t try anything funny, it should be fine, I guess,” Akira ponders while he continues being embraced by the dark-haired man.

As Akira sighs, he realizes that the more time he spends with this man, the more he doesn’t understand him or his recent behavior.

Although, it’s fine by him. If Shiki is by his side and not doing anything reckless, that is alright, the silver-haired man thinks to himself as he slowly closes his eyes and eventually falls asleep.


A few days pass by. Finally, today is a big day. After the daily checkup on Shiki’s wound, Akira decides it’s finally safe to remove the suture.

While he sits on the bedside, he picks up the disinfectant spray, scalpel, and medical tweezers and prepares for the incoming procedure. This time, he doesn’t restrain the dark-haired man. Besides, Shiki voluntarily partially lies down while observing the blue-eyed male.

Fortunately, compared to suturing an injury, this is not that intense of a procedure. Yet, it should not be taken lightheartedly, especially because one wrong movement can lead to severe damage or cause infection.

And thus, while keeping this in mind, Akira lifts his partner’s t-shirt and leans closer to him. “Try not to move too much, got it?”

Yet, as the dark-haired man fixates his gaze on Akira, he keeps a poker face and slowly blinks like a feline.

Firstly, the blue-eyed male sprays the disinfectant on the injury and waits until it dries before moving to the next step.

A couple of minutes pass. Then, Akira takes the tweezers into his non-dominant hand and the small scalpel into his dominant one. Before starting the procedure, the silver-haired male stares at his partner. “You might feel uncomfortable for a bit.”

When the blue-eyed assassin carefully picks the suture close to the knot, he cuts it. Soon he cuts another thread, and while he holds on to the knot, he removes the first stitch.

Another cut stitch, another one taken from the injury. The silver-haired man works with precision while checking how Shiki is doing.

Lastly, when Akira removes the last thread, he again sprays the disinfectant and cleans the healed wound. “Here. It’s finally over.”

However, just when the blue-eyed assassin is about to stand and tidy the mess, a pair of arms wrap around him. While one rests on his waist, another rests on his shoulder.

A second later, Akira shakily closes his eyes and gasps at the sensation of his partner’s tongue against his sensitive, exposed neck. “What are you…?” he inquires in his sweet, shivery voice while his t-shirt’s lower zipper is opening.

Hell, he can feel how the dark-haired man’s hand slides under his open t-shirt and rubs his waist.

Instead of letting Shiki toy with him, Akira places his palm on the same one that is on his shoulder and turns back to face him. “Not now, you fool…”

Perhaps his partner wants to sound strict, but with such alluring expressions on his face, he begs to be eaten right here, right now. Akira seems to be yearning for his touch as well. It is evident that, from his honest reactions, he has been holding back during this whole time, the red-eyed swordsman thinks to himself.

However, Akira lowers the held hand and escapes from his grasp. Finally, he stands up. “Enough! Sharp blades are lying around. What if you get hurt?” he groans, while hiding his still blushing face and tidying up after the recent procedure.

After a short pause, the silver-haired man turns around and explains in a softer tone, “I just need to run to the shop and get some food. Then, tonight you’ll learn what happens if you mess with me.” When he grabs his long coat, he rushes through the door without lowering the zipper of his t-shirt or wearing his long leather gloves.

Meanwhile, Shiki lowers his head and delightfully smiles. As he tilts his head and fixes his hair, he looks forward to whatever his partner has planned.

mina_chan95: (Default)

Title: A Fleeting Respite (chapter 1)
Fandom: Togainu no Chi
Pairing: Shiki x Akira
Status: Completed (3 Chapters)
Summary:

[This story is set after the Cat and Mouse ending aka Shiki’s ED2 (the PSP/PS2 version)]
Akira knew that something was off about Shiki during their usual sword-fight, and he didn’t like it all. However, as soon as he found out the reason behind it…
AO3 Link


Click here to read

Somewhere in the middle of the ruins of Toshima. For a long time, it’s been nothing more than a ghost city where only one or two stray animals or rodents may pass by or lurk in the darker corner.

A place where no sane human wanders. At least not the ones who fear to tread too far and never to be found alive.

Even the everlasting gray clouds hide the sun, moon, and stars, making this wasteland gloomier and hopeless. As if this city is a liminal space, an endless labyrinth with no escape… Or rather - netherworld on the Earth.

However, not today. Not at the moment.

Right now, the sound of a clashing blade echoes deep inside the ruins of former Toshima. It’s another encounter between a certain two skilled swordsmen, but for them, it’s as thrilling as their first match.

While the silver-haired assassin keeps blocking his opponent’s attack after attack, he can tell that something is off.

Despite that, there is no spare second to deeply analyze, but he feels that Shiki is slower and rustier than usual.

It is not important why he does that. Be it as a taunt or provocation or merely to be an annoying prick. For now, the explanation can wait until one of them will fall. Or so Akira convinces himself while counter-attacking another strike.

However, aside from this detail, something else catches Akira’s eye. The way how the red-eyed man’s face twitches in pain and slightly shrugs upon more sudden movement, doesn’t leave him unaffected.

Despite Akira’s secret concern, he continues focusing on their fight and waits until his opponent leaves an easy opening spot.

Lastly, without having anything to lose, Shiki charges at him.

Fortunately, at the last second, Akira dodges the attack and strikes the other swordsman’s back with the handle of his sword. And thus, with a short grunt, Shiki harshly hits the cold ground.

In the end, the heavy clouds withdraw like a curtain, and the platinum moonlight illuminates the victor of a hard-fought battle.

While Akira stands still and keeps his poker face, he points the tip of his sword at his opponent’s throat, who lies on his back and stares back.

Finally, after such a long time, the same man who humiliated him by sparing his life has fallen. The same man, who let him live because it was pointless to taint his blade with weakling’s blood, now lies under his foot and at his mercy.

However, is it worth it? Why, instead of feeling excited and satisfied, the silver-haired man feels disappointed, empty, and probably upset?

As Akira lowers his head, he whispers “It’s not what I wanted…”.

Suddenly, the blue-eyed killer spits out the words “Why are you like this!”.

After a short pause, he continues scolding “Why even now do you look down on me? You even held back and went easy on me.”.

When he shakily exhales, he clenches his other hand into a fist “Why?… And look at you now, you will die.”. Lastly, he brings closely the tip of the blade until it gently touches Shiki’s neck.

A minute passes. The silver-haired swordsman takes the sword into both hands and lifts the tip of it. When Akira lowers his shoulders, he closes his blue eyes before planning to land a fatal hit.

Suddenly, the blade sinks deep into the ground.

When Akira opens his eyes, he releases the sword and shakily clenches his hands into fists.

Even on the verge of death, Shiki only studied him all this time. Perhaps, he wasn’t aware that his partner would purposely miss his target but already resigned his fate.

For sure, the blue-eyed assassin cannot understand such behavior, and it makes him anxious, frustrated, and annoyed.

After Akira sits on top of Shiki, he grasps the handle of his sunken sword and addresses him “What is wrong with you? That is just selfish to throw away your life like this and give up… You stupid fool…”.

However, when he feels how the inner side of his thigh warms up, he widens his eyes “The hell?”.

When Akira lifts his partner’s black t-shirt, he shakily remarks on the soaked-in bright red clothing attached to the side of his waist “Wait… I didn’t cut you there. I didn’t even aim there. How did you even?…Why haven't you tell this earlier?!… Shit …Fuck!”.

Meanwhile, the dark-haired man only turned his head and closed his eyes “Hmph.”.

“That’s all you have to say?!” Or so the blue-eyed man speaks up at the top of his lungs. Despite wanting to slap his partner for his reckless behavior, he deeply exhales and adds “How did you expect me to finish you off when you weren’t giving your best?”.

Yet, Shiki replies “Then, stop whining and leave if that bothers you so much.”.

Instead of arguing any further, Akira climbs off his partner, and after taking a hand and placing his arm on his shoulder, he helps him to stand up “Let’s go. If we are lucky, we may find a med kit, and where we can stay.”.

“Idiot…” Or so the red-eyed man comments.

While Akira supports him, he instantly backfires “I wonder who is the bigger one.”. And with these words, the silver-haired has to make sure that both of them safely leave the once-familiar city and check on his partner.

 


 

Some time passes. And after wandering around, this couple finds an old, cheap inn. More importantly, the luck is on their side.

According to the inn owner, if they have arrived even a minute later, they would have searched for another place to stay.

Usually, there is no issue for Akira to deal with such petite problems as no vacant rooms by drawing his blade and threatening the staff.

However, this time, it may have caused more naught than use. More so, he is not alone, and who knows if Shiki hides more wounds. So, there would be nothing to gain of.

Meanwhile, after noticing the bleeding swordsman, the shocked receptionist immediately offered to call the ambulance. Unfortunately for this person, their offer is declined, and the silver-haired man demands a room key and to leave all available first aid kits in their room.

And thus, without any second thought, the receptionist and other staff obeyed this order.

Of course, Shiki won't be himself without cracking a smile at how despite Akira's serious look, he reminded him of nothing more than a protective puppy with a lowered tail and ears.

After the blue-eyed assassin looks at him, he thinks to himself while feeling slightly relieved that if this idiot can act like a smug bastard, Shiki’s life is not in grave danger as he feared.

Lastly, when they reach their room, Akira asks the staff not to interface. And thus, upon all the workers bow and leave, this couple enters the room.

 


 

As Akira locks the door behind him, he carries Shiki into the bed and lays him down.

“It wouldn’t hurt if you help me out a bit.” Or so the silver-haired man comments as he tries to remove his partner’s long coat.

It’s impressive how Shiki behaves like a cooperative patient for once and doesn’t resist. Perhaps he is in great pain that he can silently endure any treatment. But who could have done it? Either way, all questions can wait until that reckless fool recovers. Or so Akira assumes after getting rid of this piece of clothing.

Just when he is about to lift the dark-haired man’s t-shirt, his wrist is grabbed, and he is stopped by Shiki’s voice “Leave it. You are just wasting your time.”

As Akira raises an eyebrow, he listens further “I can take care of it on my own.”

“I can see how well you managed. Listen, I won’t leave you no matter how hard you try to get rid of me. Not until you are fully recovered.” Or so the blue-eyed assassin confesses.

After a short pause, Shiki closes his eyes and exhales “...Do as you wish.”.

For a good moment, Akira remains speechless at the red-eyed swordsman's attitude, but instead of scolding him, he stands up and closes his eyes “Then, make sure that I’ll find you undressed when I return.”.

Lastly, the silver-haired man looks at Shiki before heading to the bathroom.

 


 

Several minutes pass by. Soon enough, the silver-haired man leaves the bathroom carrying a basin with fresh water and a small towel.

However, when he notices his shirtless partner sitting on the bed and his eyes follow him, he closes his eyes and sighs.

On the other hand, Shiki is still here and didn't leave. So, that’s already something new. More so, even if he only removed his t-shirt and long leather gloves, knowing him, it's quite an effort.

Therefore, Akira cannot force himself to be mad that the dark-haired man only half accomplished the given instructions.

Besides, it’s no good to feel agitated when he should be focusing on more important things. Or so the silver-haired man convinces himself while he puts down the basin next to the bed and removes his long black coat and gloves.

“It would be better if you lie down. Because you would make things easier for yourself and me.” Akira comments when he brings the first aid kit from the top of the night drawer on the bed.

Lastly, when he kneels, he opens the medkit and begins his patient’s treatment.

At first, he carefully removes the poorly attached bloody clothing attached by the plaster on the waist side. Who knows how long Shiki has used it to cover his wound? But one thing is for sure - it got stuck, and removing it by force will cause massive bleeding.

After Akira takes the spray disinfectant, he warns the red-eyed man “It may sting a bit. So, don’t try to kick me off now ‘cos we both gonna end up in a nasty mess.”.

“Hmph. Just get down to the business.” Shiki briefly replies.

As the blue-eyed assassin focuses on spraying the disinfectant on the clotted tissue, he sighs.

Finally, he disposes of the stained red clothing and examines his partner’s wound.

One thing is killing people in cold blood and being followed by death. At this point, taking one’s life and cutting it into pieces is nothing more than a gray, boring routine.

However, seeing such a deep cut on his partner’s body is something hard and painful for him. It even makes a ruthless killing machine like Akira become pale and shiver.

More importantly, if someone had cut Shiki deeper until it may reach his internal organs, Akira may only encounter his cold corpse covered in red and revealed intestines, staring at him with lifeless, dimmed eyes. For sure, such a mental image alone makes the silver-haired man have shortness of breath and freeze in the same spot.

Although, he immediately snaps himself to reality, and after he grabs a wet towel, he drains it. Just before he brings it to injury, he asks “Do you need anything to bite into? And, no, you’re not biting into yourself. You already have enough injuries to treat.”.

Meanwhile, Shiki only turns his head away without saying anything.

By far, as Akira wipes around the injured area, he has no issues. However, when the towel touches the edge of the cut, his partner’s sudden movement, he nearly startles.

“Please, endure for longer. I need to clean it well before taking care of it.” Or so he comforts the dark-haired man while focusing on the current task.

After he is done with cleaning, he puts the bloody towel into the water, which soon dyes in the same crimson color.

Without wasting time, he picks the sterile cotton and carefully dries the wound and its area by gently tapping.

However, the most challenging part is still ahead. Therefore before moving to the next stage, no matter how Akira wants to avoid it, he has to restrain Shiki.

Meanwhile, the red-eyed swordsman can see how his partner is too tense and nervous. It can’t be helped. He has to help loosen the tension in the best way he knows.

When Akira places his hand on his partner’s belt, he hears a small teasing in a suggestive tone “So, this is what you wanted?~ How impatient of you.”.

Of course, hearing such an unexpected remark widens his blue eyes and almost makes his cheeks warm up. Nevertheless, he has to remind someone of their position and place.

“Keep the thoughts of your lower brain to yourself.” Or so the silver-haired man backfires as he unbuckles the belt and removes it. Lastly, as he pins Shiki’s wrists with one hand and with another one tying him to the bed frame, he declares “You are my patient and you should focus on saving your strength now.”.

Meanwhile, it’s entertaining to observe how Akira’s reactions. More so, after such remark, his shoulders are less stiff while he prepares for the next procedure.

After Akira sits, he picks up the spray disinfectant and rustling paper package from the med kit. As he rolls out the paper, he picks up the bend surgical needle, and with one sudden move, he inserts the thread through the needle's eye.

“It might hurt a bit. So, don’t tell me that I didn’t warn you.” Or so the blue-eyed assassin reminds before spraying the disinfectant on the wound area.

Finally, when he takes a deep breath, he pierces the edge of the wound and begins to suture it. A tiny stitch after a stitch by using a 90-degree angle, and the open injury slowly narrows.

Even so, from time to time, Akira checks on his partner if he is okay. After all, it’s his first time sewing a living person’s flesh and not the practice dummy’s or dead body. And from what he learned, he needs speed and precision so that the scar would heal nicely without leaving an ugly mark.

More important, he had to learn to do it because he knew that Shiki may put his life at risk for no good reason. And it seems today he has to use his learned skills.

Yet, Akira is surprised how aside from hearing slightly shivery respiratory and noticing that narrowed gaze, his partner is doing well and not resisting at all.

Some time passes. Finally, he sews the end of the wound and carefully ties a knot a few times before cutting the thread.

“There. It’s finally over. I just need to cover it.” Or so the silver-haired man adds in a soft tone as he sprays the disinfectant on the sewn wound and dries it by gently tapping the cotton pad.

After he covers the surgical scar with the snow-white clothing, he briefly wonders whether he should use the medical bandage or rely on the plaster.

On the other hand, Shiki is not that reckless idiot to tear it apart immediately after he gets released. Perhaps the medical plaster should do for tonight. Or so Akira hopes while rolling enough plaster.

When he cuts a few short plaster lines and a couple of longer ones, he peels off the cover and firmly attaches them.

Once he tidies up the mess around the bed and closes the first aid kit, he feels it is time to loosen his partner’s restraint.

After Akira sits on the bed, he leans closer to Shiki, who gives him a tired smile and addresses him “Just do not try anything funny. Right now, even one sudden move may open your wounds. So, stay still ‘cos I don’t want to sew it again, got it?”.

“You worry too much.” The dark-haired man replies when his hands are released.

Yet, Akira quickly comments “And who’s fault for that?”. Suddenly, he widens his eyes as the pair of hands placed behind his lower back and pushes him to lie down.

Soon enough, he slightly frowns to hide his bewilderment “What did I tell you earlier?”.

“Just stay quiet for a moment.” Shiki demands as he closes his eyes and wraps his other arm around his partner’s shoulders.

For sure, it’s pointless to argue with him any further. Or Akira thinks to himself as he sighs while avoiding his body touching Shiki’s sewn wound. Lastly, when he closes his eyes, he whispers “You are truly an idiot…”.

In the end, he understands that he fell for this big feline’s trap, and now it’s only a matter of time before he’ll be released and be able to tidy the mess, which might be no different from the war field hospital.


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