Our Tide (Kazuha x Reader) (Sequel to "Our Eternity")

Part 1: As We Depart 🌊

"Just act natural!"

"Is this position... not considered natural?"

You sigh softly, your lips curving up into a carefree smile as you lean against the ship's side.
"You know what, I think that look does suit you actually. Now hoooold it."

"Mrowww?"

"You too, kitty. Don't you move either." You order the little cat. He gives a big stretch before rubbing his fluffy face on Kazuha's hand. The samurai smiles, but continues to hold the cat steady so it won't fall from the ship. How thoughtful.

You crouch a bit, holding your kamera in various angles in an attempt to capture the strength and beauty of the scene before you. 

Though his posture may seem casual, it is clear that Kazuha is prioritizing the safety of the small kitty beside him. Slowly, his facial features soften as the cat begins to purr, the sun just beginning to dip in the sky behind them. His lovely light-colored locks sway in the sea breeze, framing his face in an elegant and gentle manner...

There!

With one final click,  you stretch out your arms, lift your face up to the setting sun, and feel the wind brush past your face.
"Annnnd I think that's about it. I bet they'll turn out great!" You say with a huge grin.

"Ah, how I admire that look of yours." Kazuha walks to you and ruffles your hair fondly. "It is reminiscent of a young child's expression after receiving a gift. It suits you."

You playfully push his hand away and turn to gaze into his scarlet eyes directly. "Hey, I'm no child! Hmph, I think I'll take the cat as my travel-buddy instead."

"Ah, a poor-choice of words on my part. Perhaps this small animal would be more well-received."

Kazuha briefly looks away, taking a knee and gently scooping the kitty into his arms. You opt to hug them both, wrapping your arms around the pair with a cheerful grin.
"Yes yes, much better."

The two of you stay like this for but a moment, but to you it feels like an eternity. Your mind wanders to the incidents before you boarded the Alcor, and Kazuha's interesting reaction to it all..,

—
"Is that him?!"

"Yeah, he's the one who blocked the Musou no Hitotachi!"

"I heard he's from a fallen samurai clan!"

"I heard he's traveled the world, training his blade!"

"Who's that with him?"

You take a few steps back, letting your friends from the Crux walk ahead of you and Kazuha, he grasps your hand tightly and whispers "Shall we quietly slip away?"

You give a small nod, and with a light tug of your hand and a blast of anemo, you and Kazuha find yourselves in a small courtyard area near the side of Inazuma City.

"Ugggh, I don't think I'll ever get used to the sudden wind thing," you mumble, sitting down on a small rock as you wait for the world to stop spinning.

Kazuha sits besides you, studying your features. "Hmmmm, you look to be in good health."

"My stomach just did a backflip, a cartwheel, and a handstand all at once, but besides that I'm just great." You respond with a dry smile, hoping your comedy would reassure your partner. It seems to work.

Kazuha relaxes his shoulders and looks to you, clearly about to say something when—

"Hey! Are you Kaedehara Kazuha?"

Huh?

The both of you turn around. Standing before you, their spears gleaming, march members of the Tenryou Commission. Your chest tightens.

Uh oh...

—

A/N: We're back friends! The 2.8 and summer update was everything we could've hoped for, and now my inspiration is thriving (along with my love for Kazuha💕) Let's go traveling!