Chapter 15: Springs of Revelation
The sun was beginning to dip below the horizon, casting a soft glow over the land as Miaka, Hotohori, Tamahome, and Nuriko continued their journey to find the remaining Suzaku warriors. It had been a long day, and exhaustion was beginning to show on Miaka’s face. Noticing her weariness, Nuriko spoke up.
"Miaka, you look like you’re about to collapse,” Nuriko said with a gentle smile. “We should stop and rest for a bit. There are springs just up ahead.”
Hotohori nodded in agreement. "A break would do us all good. The journey will be smoother if we’re well-rested.”
Miaka nodded gratefully. “Thank you… I could use a break.”
They soon reached a serene area with two clear springs surrounded by lush greenery. Tamahome and Hotohori headed off toward one spring, while Nuriko guided Miaka to the other.
“This way, Miaka! Let’s go have our own little relaxation spot!” Nuriko said with a mischievous grin, nudging her along.
As they reached the edge of their spring, Miaka hesitated, glancing shyly at Nuriko. "Um… Nuriko, would you mind turning around while I, um... get in?" She fiddled with her sleeves, cheeks flushed. "I… I’m not really comfortable with someone else around."
Nuriko laughed softly, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Oh, Miaka, there’s really no need to be so shy around me. Trust me!" He opened his mouth as if to say more but stopped himself, chuckling.
After a moment, he nodded. "Alright, I understand. I’ll turn around… but I’ll also ask you to turn around while I get in. It’s only fair, right?"
Relieved, Miaka smiled and agreed. "Thank you, Nuriko. I’ll close my eyes too, just in case."
Once they were both in the water, Miaka relaxed, letting the warmth of the spring wash over her. She sighed, feeling her muscles unwind. After a few minutes of peaceful soaking, she noticed Nuriko moving through the water, his graceful movements catching her attention.
A playful thought crossed her mind. Maybe I’ll surprise her!
She swam closer, calling out, “Hey, Nuriko!”
As she drew near, she suddenly stopped, eyes widening in shock. In the dim light, she caught a glimpse of Nuriko’s form—a distinctly masculine form. Miaka’s mouth dropped open as the realization struck her.
"N-Nuriko… you’re a… a man?"
Nuriko turned to her, pausing for a moment, before letting out a soft, almost bittersweet laugh. “Yes, Miaka. I am indeed a man… in body, anyway.” He gazed at her with a mixture of vulnerability and pride. "But my heart and spirit… they’re a different story.”
Miaka blinked, trying to process his words. “Nuriko… I’m sorry. I didn’t realize…”
“It’s alright, Miaka,” Nuriko said gently. "This is just who I am. My heart has always leaned toward the feminine, and that’s how I’ve chosen to live. But the truth of my body is a part of me too.”
Taking in his words, Miaka nodded, her initial shock giving way to understanding. “I… I’m honored that you trust me enough to share this, Nuriko. Thank you.”
Nuriko smiled, his expression softening. “Thank you, Miaka. Not everyone understands… but you’re different. I can see it in the way you care for people.”
Miaka reached out, placing a hand on his. “We’re friends, Nuriko. I’m here for you.”
They sat quietly in the water for a moment before Nuriko changed the subject, a thoughtful look crossing his face. "Miaka… I can tell you’re worried about Yui and Isuna. I know they are important to you, but you must take care of yourself too. If you let worry consume you, the journey ahead will only become harder.”
Miaka sighed, her expression turning somber. “I know… I just can’t help thinking about them. I wonder if they are safe… or if they are thinking about me too.”
Nuriko squeezed her hand gently. “Their strong. You wouldn’t care about them so much if wasn’t. Have faith in them—and in yourself, Miaka.”
After a moment of silence, Miaka looked up at him, a hint of gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you, Nuriko. I really needed to hear that.”
Nuriko’s face softened. “Anytime.”
Later, as they joined Hotohori and Tamahome around the campfire, Nuriko seemed to have made a decision. He took a deep breath, glancing at the two men.
"I think it’s time you both knew something," Nuriko began, his tone serious.
Tamahome looked at him curiously. “What’s up, Nuriko?”
Nuriko stood, squaring his shoulders. "I am… actually a man."
The stunned silence was quickly broken by Tamahome’s choked cough as he struggled to process Nuriko’s words. “W-Wait… what?”
Hotohori, though composed, raised an eyebrow, a hint of surprise flickering in his usually calm gaze. “You… you’re telling the truth?”
Nuriko chuckled, crossing his arms. “Believe me or not, but it’s true.” He gestured to himself with a smirk. "Though, I’d say I do a good job of being the most beautiful man here, don’t you think?"
Tamahome blinked, looking Nuriko up and down. “Well… I, uh… didn’t expect that.”
Hotohori’s lips quirked into a faint smile. "I must admit, it’s rare to meet someone who can rival my beauty.” His tone was light, but there was a hint of genuine admiration in his eyes.
Nuriko laughed, breaking the tension. “Well, I’m honored to be in such esteemed company!”
Miaka smiled, feeling warmth spread in her chest. In the strange and mystical world of the Universe of the Four Gods, bonds were forming stronger than she could have ever imagined. With friends like these by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
YOU ARE READING
"Fate's Unraveling: A Tale Beyond the Stars"
FantasyWhen she stumbled upon a mysterious book in an old library corner, the last thing she expected was to be pulled into a world of gods, wars, and treachery. Suddenly, she finds herself in ancient Konan, bound to Seiryuu and caught in the deadly scheme...
