Satan's Guild

Alive

After that day, Akumo has managed to get a better hold of his emotions. He also made the bold decision to allow Kiru to sleep in his room. That way, he need not walk over every time. He made the search parties coordinate better too, targeting places like alleyways, small secluded places etc. Things were looking up. The members of the guild also forgave Akumo's actions. The male was actually extremely surprised that they accepted his apology. He thought that they would at least hate him a bit, but they still loved him. It made Akumo want to make it up to the members even more. He also thanked Osore for calling his brother over and gave him a handsome reward. Osore initially did not want to accept it since he said it was a small thing, but Akumo insisted.

Now, Akumo returns to his room after having settled many things. He has  decided to take a rest after all the work he has done. Akumo enters the room and sees Kiru on the bed. He seems to be folding an origami paper. The look on his face showed determination. Akumo smiles and walks over.

Akumo : What are you making?

Kiru notices Akumo and shows him his finished creation.

Kiru : A paper crane! See! Isn't it pretty?

The paper crane that Kiru had folded looked beautiful. You could tell that Kiru put in much care and thought into folding it. The papercrane was also intricately folded, no wrinkles at all.

Akumo : It's beautiful.

Akumo replies and pats Kiru's head.

Kiru : Do you want one too? I'll make one for you boss!

Akumo : Haha, thanks, but I think I'm good. You should keep them for yourself. They can protect you. And are you feeling any better?

Kiru holds his paper crane in his hands and looks down. He now wears a frown.

Kiru : The nightmares still keep coming...It's scary...

Akumo places a hand around Kiru's shoulder.

Akumo : Hey, don't be afraid, okay? I'm here.

Kiru : Boss, what if...that man is back?

Akumo ponders this for a moment. He never considered this before, since he just presumed he was dead after Nozomi killed him. Though, there might be a slight chance that he is alive. He is a very powerful being after all, and his body had disappeared after the killing. So maybe by some way or another, he might be alive.

Akumo : Well, if he is, then we'll face him together. With the entire guild.

Akumo then turns Kiru around and places both hands on his shoulders.

Akumo : Kiru, don't be afraid of that man okay? The more you're afraid of him, the more he'll be able to take advantage of you. So stay strong, show him that you won't be easily swayed. If he tries to use you, resist it, resist his control.

Tears form at the edges of Kiru's eyes.

Kiru : B-But what if I can't?

Kiru begins crying. Akumo quickly brings him into his embrace.

Akumo : You can. I believe in you. So you must believe in yourself too, okay?