Infinity With You | T. Muichiro

28

Chapter 28
FORGET-ME-NOT

"It's rare that you are free. How are you holding up with your part of training?"

You smiled at Muichiro who returned the gesture. He sat beside you, immediately leaning on your shoulder. "They were all nothing but incompetent fools. At this rate, they will die before they even know it." Muichiro was harsh as ever, that was the part that still didn't change even after he regained his memories. You did not mind, you liked every part of him.

"Don't be too harsh on them. They already deal enough with Shinazugawa-sama and Iguro-sama." You attempted to save the poor lower ranks, feeling sorry for them.

However, Muichiro shakes his head in disagreement. "I know you are worried, but they're no genius. That's why we need to push them even harder." You sighed with a smile, defeated. "You make a fair point."

Just then, Muichiro turns towards you with a serious expression, arousing your curiosity.

"I would like to take you to a place, do you mind?"

Muichiro looks at you. You shakes your head, smiling. And you suddenly felt very curious.

"Of course not."

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The boat glided smoothly across the serene lake, the gentle sound of water lapping against its sides the only break in the tranquil silence. The scene was almost idyllic. The surrounding forest framed the lake perfectly, tall trees reflecting on the water’s surface. The air was fresh, and the sky painted a brilliant blue, dappled with soft clouds.

You admired Muichiro's effortless rowing. His sleeves were tied up to avoid interfering, revealing toned arms that moved with graceful precision. He looked so handsome. The peaceful atmosphere was enhanced by his calm demeanor, a stark contrast to the usual chaos of your lives.

"Are you sure you don't need help?" You asked, voice a soft murmur.

Muichiro shook his head, a small smile playing on his lips. "This is light work. I can do this much."

You smiled back fondly, leaning on your hand, letting your eyes drift over the calming view. You traced lazy patterns on the water’s surface with your fingers, feeling the coolness against your skin. The moment was perfect, a rare slice of peace in your demanding lives of a Hashira. You couldn't wish for a better moment to just enjoy things in peace.

You were glad Muichiro took you to this place. You were happy.

Muichiro suddenly stopped rowing and sat down, letting the boat drift.

"I heard people celebrate a festival where they make a wish and send off the lanterns on the lake," you started, slightly splashing the water.

Muichiro hummed in interest, looking over to stare at your longing expression. "Is that so?"

"It must be very pretty, floating lanterns on the waters..." You continued, your thoughts drifting. As a Hashira, you were extremely busy, with little time to enjoy simple pleasures like festivals, which were usually held at night—during your working hours. You glanced at Muichiro, who wore a thoughtful expression. He, too, was always busy.

"After the Demon King is defeated, I will take you to one." His words caught you by surprise, and you blinked several times.

"Eh?"

"I will take you to the lantern festival after that. I will make you the happiest girl." Caught off guard by his bold response, you let out an absentminded, "Really?"

Muichiro smiled mischievously at you. "Don't believe me? Then I will seal this promise..." He leaned toward your face, "...with a kiss." And left a gentle peck on your cheek.

Heat exploded on your face as you stared at him, wide-eyed and speechless.

_________________

You felt like you woke up from a dream. There was silence around you. You attempted to open your eyes, only to be met with darkness. Panic settles instantly before you remember something.

'Right...I used the final form of flower breathing...'

You tried to get up, but as you slowly gain your senses, you realized that you couldn't feel your arms.

'What... happened..? Did we win..?'

You hoped you did. Seeing as you lost both of your arms, you had lost the ability to swing a sword. A Hashira that can't even swing a sword, you felt useless now. You hoped that at least you contributed in defeating the Uppermoon.

You started to feel light headed, your consciousness drifting in and out. Perhaps you lost too much blood.

'Ah..I will probably die soon..'

Your heart ached deeply, and you felt tears running down your cheeks.

"I...don't want to die.."

'Mui-kun... I wonder if he's okay..' If he is okay at least, you would feel better.

Just then, you felt an arm wrap around your body. It was warm, like the morning sunlight.

"(Name)...don't be afraid, we're in it together. You're not alone...." Muichiro rasped out, pulling every ounce of his strength from his body to continue talking to you.

"Mui-kun...are you hurt..? You're not hurt right?" You wanted to see him, you wanted to gaze into his turquoise-colored eyes, the very eyes that gaze at you with those kinds, gentle eyes.

Yet you can't.

"Don't worry...I'll be okay." You smiled lightly, wanting to hug him. You want to feel the warmth of his embrace. You want to bury your face on his chest, his strong arms that made you feel safe.

Yet you can't.

You want to see the lantern festival, and visit a lot of places with Muichiro, like any normal person would. You want to tell him, how you felt.

'I love you, Muichiro. I always have.'

Yet you can't.

You open your mouth in an attempt to speak. But before you can utter those three words that you desperately wish to tell, you felt all of your strength leave you. With tears running down on your cheeks, you took a final breath.

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Taisho Rumors

Ryu was there the whole time beside (Name), when she took her final breath. He too, died from grief.

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Author Notes

Yayy....I am so happy 🥲