Blade Song

Chapter 22-The Blood of Nameless Men

You'd think that may have triggered a memory in me, but I've killed so many nameless men. My blades have played me the song of death for countless brothers, sons, and husbands. I've spent my happiest hours covered in the blood of others, and I only remember the ones who gave me a song worth remembering. This man's brother, who'd obviously meant the world to him, would always just be a few dull notes on a boring measure.

"You're certain?" Kiyoshi stared at me intently.

The man nodded, his eyes still filled with fire. "I thought her to be a boy at the time, but it is her, without a doubt."

"Do you remember this man?" the fox asked.

I shook my head. "I'm sorry. I don't."

His body trembled with anger and he marched up to me. My hand went to my chakram, but I didn't draw it.

"How could you possibly forget that night four years ago? I begged you not to, but you cut him down anyway with that sickening smile on your lips!"

I studied him, taking in his narrow face and his brown, upturned eyes. Those stubby horns of his barely peaked above the dark waves of his hair. There was no memory of this man, or any relation of his.

"I'm sorry." I shook my head again. "I don't remember at all."

A loud scream erupted from his lips and he swung his fist at my face. I easily avoided the blow by simply pulling back slightly. His form was terrible and he was so very slow. This man had clearly never fought a day in his life.

"You owe me your life! It is the only way to repent for what you did."

I sighed. "I have many things to repent for, but I don't owe you anything. You expect me to simply give you my life? I will not die for you or anyone else."

"Kazuma." Kiyoshi put his hand on the man's shoulder. "I know you're upset and you have every reason to be, but you can't be so hasty."

Kazuma whipped around to face the fox and jabbed a finger in my direction. "If you're taking her back to the White Wood that means you are responsible for her actions, past or not. She must answer for her crimes! Or would you really give sanctuary to a murderer?"

Kiyoshi let out a deep breath and stared at the man in front of him. "Mitsuo, will you..."

"Already on it." Mitsuo put up his hand as he started to walk away. "I'll tell them to speed it up."

"Thank you." He nodded at his brother and turned his attention back to Kazuma. "I give sanctuary to many, but your loss is very important to me and should not be overlooked. We will get to the bottom of this and decide the best outcome. You have my word."

The best outcome? I wasn't sure what to do with these words. Best outcome for whom? What did this mean for me? However this turned out, I wasn't going to just lie down and die, but would the fox really order my death in the first place? He knew who I was, who I am. I have taken the lives of many, some deserving, some not. This was no mystery. Perhaps the reality of who I am is only alright as long as it remains far away and somewhat unreal. Was I still someone worthy of love, of life, when I was destroying those people close to you?

Many uncomfortable minutes later, the rest of the group joined us. They kept the humans and half-breeds in a cluster off the beaten trail and far enough away that they were out of ear shot, but still in sight. Mitsuo was an exception of course and returned to his brother's side. We were also joined by the colossi twins, Fuyuko, and Takahiko.

"While you are not my usual council, we've come across a situation that requires a decision which should be reached fairly and with the utmost delicacy. I find in situations like these, having a few opinions is optimal." Kiyoshi gestured at Kazuma. "This man claims Aki killed his brother in cold blood. We will hear both sides and I will make a decision that I believe is just. Kazuma, will you please tell us your version of what happened that night?"