Chasing Darkness (Sequel to Remember Me)

Part Sixteen

"As you can see, we're a very orderly organization," Ryuu speaks as he gestures to several members in white and red robes walking past him in the corridor.

He's currently giving you and your group of friends a tour of the building, offering insight on just what this organization is. The more he talks, the more the true meaning of the organization becomes abundantly clear. You watch him walk ahead of you with narrowed eyes, trying to figure out just how the scarlet eyes tie into all of this.

"Ryuu, you mentioned something about your followers praying earlier," Jaya starts, earning a hum in response from the organization leader, "Who exactly are they praying to?"

"Ah, it's not who, but what," Ryuu halts in place and spins around to face your group, "We worship the scarlet eyes. They have healing properties and we believe they can provide spiritual clarity for each of us. They've brought us nothing but good fortune."

Your eyes widen slightly, however, Leorio and Bennett are unable to hold back their very obvious looks of shock. You clear your throat to gain Ryuu's attention as Kurapika pinches them both on their arms to bring them back to their senses.

"Do you take care of the scarlet eyes, Ryuu?" You ask the long white-haired man, drawing his attention to you, "It seems like you know a lot about them."

"Indeed," Ryuu nods with a proud look adorning his face, "I am a Prophet for the scarlet eyes. I teach our followers about the incredible healing powers that they provide for us."

You can't help but raise an eyebrow at him, "Is that right?"

"Yes. I would be more than willing to allow you to gaze upon them some time, (Y/N)," Ryuu says with a grin on his face, "You're someone that I respect greatly. If anyone deserves to observe the true powers of the scarlet eyes, it's you."

You bow to him slightly, biting your lip to keep yourself from saying something that you would surely regret, "Thank you, Ryuu. I'm very grateful to hear that."

"You and your friends are all welcome to make yourselves at home here for as long as you like," Ryuu says with open arms, "I have several available rooms for each of you to stay in."

"Thank you for allowing them to stay, sir," Kurapika says with a small bow of his head, "I am very grateful."

"There's no need to thank me!" He starts to walk forward again, prompting everyone to trail behind him, "Allow me to show you to your rooms!"

Ryuu shows your group to the available rooms, Shadow and Bennett sharing a room, while Izunavi and Leorio share a room with each other. Jaya is offered a room with you, but Ryuu assures you that you can stay with Kurapika in his room. You stand with Jaya, Kurapika, and Ryuu as he finishes his little tour, excusing himself to finish some work afterward.

Kurapika closes the door before approaching you, intertwining his fingers with your own. His voice is hushed as he speaks, "I'm afraid that I cannot speak freely in this building, however, meet me in the garden outside at 9 pm and I will explain exactly what is going on here. Is that okay, my treasure?"

You give him a quick nod in response, "Of course. I'll be there."

He lets out a long sigh before saying, "I have more work that I must finish for Ryuu, but I intend to come and see you as often as possible. I apologize for getting you wrapped up in my troubles."

You furrow your brow at this, "Why are you apologizing? I'm at fault for showing up unannounced."

"I disagree. Seeing you has lifted my mood considerably, as well as giving me more motivation," He starts, a genuine smile forming on his lips as he gazes directly into your eyes, "I'm overjoyed to have you by my side again, however, I am curious about the circumstances that brought you here."