Our 𝔼𝕥𝕖𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕥𝕪 (Kazuha x Reader)(Gender Neutral)

Part 22: Whistling Leaves, Unwanted Memories 🍃

This
Is
Heavenly

I think I've ascended.

Your startled expression worries Kazuha. "I-Is it not to your liking?" the samurai asks anxiously, his crimson eyes fixed on you.

You look him straight in the eyes, your mouth curving into a smile. "Kazuha. When I tell you this is the best thing I've eaten in the past year, I'm not exaggerating at all. This is incredible."

Kazuha's face lights up with delight, and he lets out a small surprised laugh. "Really? Do you mean it? Well, in that case, perhaps we could... make this a regular occurrence?"

You nod vigorously, your mouth full of fish. Joy rushes through your heart at seeing Kazuha's child-like delight, and you wish calm moments like this could last a lifetime.

You swallow your warm fish and look to Kazuha, lying on his back on the soft blanket and with his eyes closed. Looking at him closely, the serene samurai radiated a curious beauty, both undeniably pretty and handsome blended in equal amounts.

"So Kazuha, you'll cook for me again then? I'm not sure I can go back to rations after this."

He smiles at you. "Why certainly. Any skill, no matter how experienced one may be, dulls with time. This way, I will have a reason to practice my culinary capabilities."

"Perrrrfect~" you giggle, lying down next to Kazuha.

"However, I have heard talk of an "anonymous sponsor" who has recently provided a large quantity of supplies to the Ressistance. Perhaps rations may increase now."

Your brow furrows. "A sponsor? Hmmm, that sounds pretty suspicious. Do you think we can trust them?"

Kazuha shakes his head, his eyes growing serious. "It's unlikely. However, we are in dire need of more supplies and troops., so at least this situation will boost morale for a time. This may be some sort of set up, but all will reveal itself in time."

"Yeah, I suppose you're right."

The two of you lie there together for a time, staring up at the fluffy clouds glowing orange with the setting sun. The world grows quieter, until all you can focus on is the whisper of the wind and Kazuha's soft breathing. For a moment, you feel warm and content.

Suddenly, a sharp ache in your heart makes you wince. Unwanted memories fill your head as you desperately try to brush them off.

The memories...

"Is something the matter?" Kazuha looks to you.

We used to lie like this all the time...

"Nope, I'm just fine. I'm just uh... not used to relaxing, is all."

But now he's gone.

You swallow.

"H-Hey, think we should get back and give Gorou our report?" You ask, slowly sitting up.

"Ah, I suppose you're right. I never stay in the same place for too long myself, so let us once again travel together." Kazuha agrees, smoothly standing up from the blanket and facing the direction of the camp.

Inside, you breathe a sigh of relief.

"Alright, let's go."

—

As you walk together with your calm companion through the grass and sand, you gloomily mull over your many complicated emotions.

You know you love Kazuha, but he hasn't really mentioned anything romantic... or has he? Maybe he's more of an "actions speak louder than words" kinda guy? Gah, but even if he did say something, are you ready for a relationship anyway?

Thoughts like these run through your mind, until—

Pfuuuuuh!

"Ah!"

You jump back, startled, your eyes darting around wildly. And there was Kazuha with a mischievous grin, a small green leaf held in his hand. He laughs at your surprised expression.

"My apologies, I simply thought a small tune would lift your spirits, but it seems I was mistaken. Have you not heard the sound of a leaf before?"

You blink. "I haven't. Are you telling me that whistling sound came from a leaf?"

Kazuha nods, pleased. "Indeed. Here, let me show you. First, you'll need to find a leaf with a smooth, oval shape."

Kazuha gently takes the ends of the leaf in both hands and presses it to his lips, bending it slightly and softly blowing out air. The small leaf vibrates, releasing a pure and melodious note.

Your eyes sparkle in awe. "Wow, that's incredible! I had no idea you could do that! Did you just pick up a leaf one day and figure this out?"

Kazuha chuckles. "Why no, I believe this trick was first shown to me when I was a young child by someone in my clan. Who it was I do not recall, but I do remember viewing them with the utmost respect. Because of this, the sound of leaves always reminds me of home."

"Aww, that's really sweet. The sound of the wind always reminds me of my home," you reminisce. But, once again, unwanted memories come to mind, and you feel a knot in your throat.

You hear a small sigh, and look up to see Kazuha, his eyes filled with worry. "Well, just when it seemed I had successfully broken you out of your sullen demeanor, it returns. Y/N..."

His voice becomes soft, and he looks into your eyes. "Know that I am no stranger to the emotions of others. If you wish to rid your heart of burden by speaking on your troubles, I would gladly be an attentive listener."

Your cheeks flush red. "N-No! That's not necessary! But I..."

Should I tell him?

You sigh, and turn to face your companion. Maybe now was the right time. Maybe not for everything, but some of it.

You take a deep breath.

"Kazuha... would you mind if I told you a story? It's about someone... someone I loved."

—

A/N: Thank you for all the love everyone💕 The next chapter is from Kazuha's point of view, and involves an original character of mine, and I think you'll all enjoy it! I'm also working on a oneshots book with (hopefully) at least one story for every single playable Genshin character. Please stay tuned✨