The Sugilite Prince

♛ Searching ♛ - Part 15

The search for the Sugilite prince continued.  Remembering the stories Sugi had told him, Jimon searched for the witch's home hidden in the forest.  He was scared that the witch was back and had somehow taken Sugi having found him such easy pickings in her habitat.  Jimon felt guilty and exhausted.  He hadn't eaten anything since the previous day and finally sat down on a log to rest.  

Jimon wondered if Sugi even cared about him. With his head in his hands, he closed his eyes and just listened to the forest sounds quieting his breath and the worried thoughts on his mind.  The sound of rustling leaves being lifted by the wind filled the air. Jimon took in his surroundings while the little creatures that dwelled there peaked out and adjusted to his presence.  Jimon smiles at a little brown bunny that is especially brave.  The serenity of the moment transformed his lonely thoughts.  The little birds added their song to the mix with their sweet sounds making it a magical moment. 

Jimon speaks, "Do you know where he is, little one?  Do you know where your mistress lives?  Take me to the girl of the forest."

Jimon thinks, 'I must be mad talking to the woods and the rabbits,' and chuckles to himself, 'it must be the lack of food making me lightheaded.'

Nevertheless, he follows the bunny as if guided by the welcoming spirit of the forest. He continues his woodland walk till he comes to a clearing. Jimon follows a path leading away from the clearing.  He lets his eyes rest on the dwelling ahead seemingly swallowed by the vegetation seamlessly becoming one with the natural surroundings.

The fact that it was hidden so deep in the woods was enough for him to realize this was the witch's dwelling.  Here away from curious eyes, they were safe to practice their craft in peace.  If only Sugi wasn't so fond of exploring the wood, he might never have met Maeve and thus sealed his sad fate.  

Making sure not to be seen, Jimon searched for any sign of her or Sugi coming closer little by little. Although the place looked abandoned, looks can be deceiving and a cunning witch will lay her traps.  As he walked around the witch's bungalow, Jimon found what he was hoping for.  There was Sugi sitting serenely as if he was waiting for someone. He looked like a bewitching dream, his violet hair contrasting with all the green of his surroundings. 

"Sugi," Jimon called in a loud whisper waving his hand to get his attention.

Hearing Jimon's voice Sugi turned his head and smiled at his friend. "Come," he beckoned.

Jimon left the safety of his hiding place and hugged his little prince.  "I found you!"

"What are you doing here?  I thought you had left for good," Sugi questioned.

"I couldn't leave you," Jimon said shyly, "You mean so much to me."

With wide eyes, Sugi looked at him surprised by his confession.  "Then why did you go?"

"I really liked you but I realize I don't fit in your world.  Putting some fancy clothes on a donkey doesn't make it a horse."

"Jimon, it's just me.  I'm nothing special.  You are more special than I am.  I really like you."

"Thanks, I really like you too, but that doesn't change anything."

"Do you hate me cause I killed your friend?"

"No, never.  It's not you that did that."

After a long pause, Sugi answered, "It's okay, nothing seems to go right for me.  It's me that must go now. I'm sorry Jimon.  I'm waiting for her.  It's the only way."

"What do you mean?  Why do you want to go?"

"I can't live like this anymore.  Hiding in fear that I will kill someone with my gaze. Jimon, please understand."

"But she's not here, Sugi.  What makes you think she will come and fix this?"

"I think it's what she is waiting for.  For me to realize I need to give her a chance.  She loved me once and I rejected her.  She wants me to come crawling back and I will, if it can take away the curse."

Jimon hugged him again, "But you are going away from me!"

"I want you to be happy.  It's not fair to make you wait."

"I'll wait ... as long as it takes," Jimon stares into his eyes.  It doesn't matter what he said before, he wants to stay with Sugi.  His heart is aching at the thought of losing him.

Sugi nods, glad of Jimon's response.

"Everyone is looking for you.  Jeon is determined to find you."

"Don't tell them where I am."

"I won't but let me bring you food at least."

At the mention of food, Sugi blinked. "I must admit, I hadn't thought of that but I assure you it won't hinder my resolve."

"I will rush back and bring you some supplies and wait with you if you like," Jimon sounded enthusiastic wanting to help.

"Okay, Jimon, but don't be sad if I'm gone when you come back.  It's what I want."

"Well then, I guess I'll go now..." he hesitantly turns to leave.

"Hey..."  Jimon turns back to look at him. Sugi said, "When I come back, I will look for you."

Jimon smiled.  It was just what he wanted to hear, "okay, I'll hold you to that."

"Will you kiss me before you go?"

Jimon pulled him into a sudden embrace their chests pressed together. Sugi leaned his head closer and placed a soft kiss on his lips.  Their eyes met. "Don't forget me Sugi."

"I won't, you're the boy that could see me."

"And you're my violet, delicate and beautiful."

Sugi laughed, "You're so cheesy!"

"I know, but you smiled!"