Behind the Glass (Komahina AU)

Chapter Twenty-Nine: Silver Lining

It had been a week since the Leviathan attacked. While there was some casualties, everyone was thankful for their sacrifices including Nagito. Without him, their kingdom would have been in shambles. However, little did they know, Hajime was the true hero. According to rumours, his powers overcame his weak state which alllowed him to confront the Leviathan to return home. Chiaki and Angelyne were the only people to witness it, but they vowed not to say anything.

Hajime and Nagito were alone in the cave where the now destroyed Natiluius rested. Kazuichi was given a lift back to the surface, but Nagito wasn't sure what to do.

"We can...make a place for you here!" Hajime tried suggesting. "I can come and visit, bring you food and-"

He stopped immediately, remembering his time on the surface. He didn't want his love to be unhappy and kept in a cage. Nagito, however, chuckled as he kissed him on the forehead.

"I know you are trying, Hajime." Nagito sighed as he cupped his cheek. "I am sure something will work out. I am not letting you out of my sight."

"But...the surface..." Hajime asked. "You have family and friends there..."

"I thought that too...but I cannot see myself going back there." Nagito replied. "Besides, you are the family I need."

"Oh JESUS!" Izuru groaned as he and Chiaki poked their heads out the water. "Keep the mushy stuff to yourselves!"
Chiaki giggled at her husband's dismay.

Angelyne jumped out of the water before transforming into a human with a long flowing pink dress. "I am sorry to interrupt, but I may have a solution for you all!"

"Easy, Angelyne." Chiaki asked. "What is wrong?"

"The Leviathan told me something...a way to reunite young love forever." She said as she pulled out a shell like box. She opened it to reveal a pendant with a symbol of a 9 combined with an uppercase L made with elegant, flowing silver lines.

"What is this? I have never seen anything like it." Chiaki gasped in awe.

"This is a necklace once held by the goddess of the merpeople, Obelia. It was said that if a true bond was formed, she will present this a token of her blessing."

Hajime and Nagito looked at each other before returning their gaze to Angelyne.

"Once, a long time ago, a woman and a merman fell in love. Back then, it was considered a sin to court other species, and they were to risk everything to keep that love strong. So...Obelia enchanted the necklace. The wearer would transform into the beloved's species, but they would never be able transform back. It is a one time and permanent fix."

"Jesus Christ, Angelyne." Izuru sighed. "Don't say stuff like that!"

"What? It is only a legend!" Angelyne groaned. "Besides, I am the one that enchanted it...with the Leviathan's help of course."

"If you are good at hearing animal's thoughts, how come you aren't a Noble?" Nagito asked. "I mean, you could have-"

"I can only telepathically hear them...not speak to them." Angelyne admitted with shame. "Being a one sided psychic has its disadvantages...anyways, the choice is between the two of you." She gave them the box while bowing down in respect before diving, feet in, back into the water. Poking her head out, she said, " I believe the goddess has blessed you both with true love. No matter what happens, you shall be protected from all evil."

"Thank you, Angelyne." Hajime said with his ears perked up and a bright smile on his face. She disappeared back down to the depths with a splash from her tail.

"Hajime? Nagito?" Chiaki asked. "I know this seems like a big deal, but I am not sure if it is safe. I trust Angelyne, but this legend is pretty sketchy at best."