A Love Beyond Time

The Trial

Warning: This chapter contains graphic description of violence and torture.

You were my only light in this dark world

My only oasis of purity and perfection

Yet now that you are gone

I am lost

Intense silence smothered the clearing during Hualing's recount of Seimei's hellish history. The Ginseng fairy nearly broke down during her narration, but she forced herself to continue because the mortals needed to know everything. Because they were now entangled in this elaborate web of betrayal, destruction, and revenge since their arrival in Shinsenkyō.

It was especially imperative for Tenza to know the complex entanglements between Shion and Seimei and how deep the latter's feelings for his sensei ran.

Yet, Hualing wished she had not begun the recount when she glimpsed the tormented expressions on Sagiri's and the vixen twins' faces. And she began to have second thoughts about telling them about the public trial and—

What came after.

As though he had read her mind, the typically brusque Saito took her hand reassuringly. His hand was icy and clammy, and Hualing could feel it trembling. She glanced at the Byakko, who nodded tersely at her.

"I will take over from Hualing and tell you about the trial..." His husky voice cracked as anguish and resentment welled up in him. "But—"

Sagiri could sense the waves of intense agony and trauma emanating from the Byakko. So overwhelming and powerful were they that the samurai girl felt them as acutely as though they were her own pain, and tears sprung into her eyes. Almost without thinking, she blurted.

"Sir Saito, could you share those memories with all of us instead? I think that might help to lessen your pain."

She smiled when Saito gave her a sharp look.

"You're traumatized by the past, Sir Saito. Please allow me and the others to share your burden and help you heal. Let us partake in those experiences you had locked away inside you and go through them with you. Please."

Hualing felt a strong surge of admiration for Sagiri. The mortal girl, young as she might be, was always so compassionate and gentle. And she instinctively knew how to help the stubborn Byakko. The fairy glanced at the others, hoping they would agree with Sagiri's suggestion, and their looks of understanding and support brought tears to her eyes.

"But this isn't a pretty scene, Yamada Asaemon Sagiri. It's bloody and violent. All of you are mere mortals; are you sure you are strong enough to withstand everything?"

Gabimaru arched an eyebrow. "We are not your ordinary mortals who have led cushy lives, Saito. All of us here have been through our own hells, despite our 'youths'. Do not underestimate us or our determinations. Most of all, do not think we are incapable of empathy and softness."

Almost immediately, Nurugai interjected as she held Mei's hand. "Mei and I want to be part of your memories too, Uncle Saito. After all, Seimei is our adoptive father."

Saito chuckled, though it was more an expression of reluctant admiration and capitulation than genuine humor.

"Very well, brave mortals. But let me repeat: this is something really cruel. It is a scene that speaks of utter betrayal and backstabbing of the very worst kind."

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The Celestial Kingdom—High Dais of Justice ( 正义 高台 )