Miu ran as fast as she could, taking the familiar shortcuts instead of waiting for the train. Her mind raced even faster than her feet. Something inside her had changed. There was a warmth she couldn't explain, a strange new feeling that flooded her with happiness. But at the same time, a whirlwind of confusion followed—confusion caused by the secrets Kei had revealed about her mother and father.
-How could I be so foolish?-she whispered to herself, cheeks flushed as she remembered Kei's hands on her, his kisses, the way he had spoken of love, of a future with children, a simple life on a farm. It was so beautiful and tender that her heart couldn't stop racing. She clutched her chest as she ran through the dark streets, overwhelmed by the thought that maybe, just maybe, this was love—the kind of love she had always waited for.
But then thoughts of Kenichi rushed in, and guilt flooded her. Guilt for betraying the feelings between them, for letting herself be drawn into this complicated triangle. How had she gone from hating Kei to sharing her deepest secrets, her fears, and her dreams with him? It was surreal. And yet, the vision of red-haired children running around, the soft, romantic music of a peaceful life… it felt like something she could truly want. She blushed even more as she imagined it, covering her face with her hands.
But then, reality struck. What would her masters say? What would people think? Kei was dangerous, a bad man. Everyone knew that. But they didn't know him like she did. Kei wasn't evil; he was hurt, and broken. He needed someone to love him, to guide him. Maybe, just maybe, she could be that person. She believed he could change.
Miu finally reached the grand wooden gates of her home, intricately carved and full of martial arts tradition. As she opened them, the door swung wide, and there stood her grandfather, towering as always, his presence as imposing as ever.
-We were worried about you,- Hayato Furinji said, his voice deep with concern.
-Grandpa!- Miu cried, leaping into his arms. -I'm fine. I just lost track of time, but I think it's time for dinner now.- She jumped around happily, trying to deflect any questions about her disheveled appearance, her missing glasses, or her loose hair. She had no desire to explain any of it. Hayato, sensing her unusual mood, decided not to press her further. He felt a deep weariness, one he hadn't felt in over 15 years.
Suddenly, a small figure crashed into Miu. Little Runna, chasing a mouse that had jumped onto a cat's back, collided with her older sister. The child squealed in delight as she hugged Miu tightly.
-Big sister! Why do you smell like big brother?- Runna asked, giggling.
-Shhh…-, Miu pressed a finger to her lips. -How do you know that?-
Runna giggled mischievously, moving closer. -Runna never forgets her brother's scent! Don't let go of big brother, sleep with him tonight!- she whispered, her eyes wide and innocent, so much like Kei's—bright, round, and full of childlike wonder, opposite to the deep, painful abyss that haunted her older brother's gaze.
-Oh, my sweet little girl,-Miu said, squeezing Runna tightly. The cat brushed against Miu's legs, purring softly as it played. Tochumaro had disappeared some time ago, searching for Shigure.
As Miu played with Runna, Kenichi came running around the corner.
-Miu! There you are! I heard you left school early. Where were you?-Kenichi asked, his white gi rustling as he stopped in front of her, his presence full of energy and kindness.
-Kenichi, I lost track of time and got a bit lost,- Miu replied, her innocent tone making Kenichi believe her instantly. To him, it was just another normal day. They were back home, where everything felt warm and familiar. Chia Kazama silently served food, giving Apachai a double helping of spicy curry, and preparing dishes for everyone else, each one with a personal touch.
-I want curry too, Mama!- Runna said, watching Apachai dig into his bowl with gusto.
***
Meanwhile, Kei had arrived at his training room, feeling lighter than he had in a long time. Sharing his fears with Miu had somehow filled him with a sense of peace. He could breathe more easily, and the weight of his burdens was temporarily lifted.
-Sorry I'm late, Kovac,- Kei said as he entered, stretching out his sore limbs.
-No worries, kid. Same routine as every day. Training never stops. I'm guessing you had some things come up on the way?- Kovac replied, pausing from sharpening his daggers. His military fatigues were covered in dirt and sweat, but he looked as sharp and alert as ever.
Kei nodded, grabbing a small cup of sake before collapsing onto a bench. He let himself rest, fully exhausted after the emotional rollercoaster of the day. For once, he allowed himself to sleep deeply, waking early the next morning feeling more refreshed than he had in months.
His arms no longer throbbed with the relentless pain he had become used to, his legs felt light, and his spirit seemed renewed. He breathed in the cool morning air, stretching his body as it cracked and popped. Every breath felt like a gift. He still had a long way to go, but for the first time, he felt like he was moving toward something better.
-It's strange… to feel this way,- Kei muttered to himself, reflecting on his intimate moments with Miu. Only a man who knows true affection can fully grasp the desire to keep living, to protect something precious.
For her, he would burn the world. But he knew he couldn't—he couldn't let himself fall into that darkness. He had to walk a different path.
….
The next morning came quickly for Kei. After a long, restful night, he stretched his body and geared up for another intense day of training. Kovac joined him, as always, ready to push Kei to his limits. Today, however, there was a renewed fire in Kei's eyes, a new determination.
-This time, we train like we're preparing for war, -- Kovac said, strapping on his gear. He was more experienced and better in combat, but Kei's relentless drive and thousands of hours of training had made him a formidable opponent. Day after day, he pushed himself, sparring with Kovac and Shogo, training a hundred times a week in escalating battles.
Kei adjusted the 30-kilogram weights strapped to each limb, pulling on the old, familiar training shirt with heavy springs that kept constant pressure on his muscles. It had been a while since he'd worn it, but now, he was ready for the next phase of his training. He focused his thoughts and began the routine, determined to reach the top.
...