The Snow's Lament - Part 2
Author: emmachase
Requested by: Everyone who took part in my poll
Title: The Snow's Lament - Part 2
Rating: R
Genre: Angst, Family, some fluff
Pairing: RyuuJima (Yuto/Ryutaro) <- Brotherly love
Summary: Remember that little poll I had a while ago? Well, I finally got around to making a quick story about it! I hope you like it
Notes: Stay tuned for the next chapter folks!
The next day, Ryutaro woke up to find himself laying in Yuto’s room. The older boy was nowhere to be found. He sat up quickly just as the doors opened.
“Aiko?”
“Ah! Ryuu-Chan, Yuto-kun said you’d be in his room, I was a little worried when you weren’t there when I came to wake you.”
“S-Sorry…” Ryutaro bowed slightly.
“Ma…. It’s okay, so? Did you get to know your brother?”
“Un…. “
“And?”
“I don't know…. I know now…. That I was overthinking it…. But I still don't fully know…. How I feel.. about him… you know?” Ryutaro paused every few words.
“It’ll be okay.. in time, you’ll find out each other’s feelings, and maybe then you can begin to understand them.”
The woman nodded as she turned around and left.
Ryutaro wandered aimlessly through the days, his flower arrangements drew much praise and his calligraphy attracted even his father’s attention. But despite all this, Ryutaro felt no happiness, instead, he felt longing…. He wanted the nights to come quicker, so he could go and visit Yuto again.
While he may have seen the older boy walking around the mansion, he always felt it would be awkward if he were to suddenly pop up beside him, and thought it best to wait until tonight.
The day dragged on and Ryutaro sighed as at last the sun began to fall beneath the horizon and the world was dark again.
Ryutaro would always wait until the last streaks of light went away and the light of the new moon shone in the sky. It was then that he would walk over to Yuto’s and the boy was always ready to receive him. Lately, he had taken to falling asleep in there. On this particular night though, the little boy wanted to stay awake with Yuto, and he even made Aiko promise to come in sometime during the night with food.
“Yuto-kun? Could…. You… teach me how to play?” Ryutaro asked suddenly as he looked at the small wooden flute that Yuto always played at nights.
“Sure… anything you want” Yuto replied as he sat down beside the small lamp that provided warmth for the room. He noticed a small shiver in Ryutaro and smiled as he took off his white silk outer kimono coat and draped it over him. Ryutaro smiled gratefully as he pulled the soft coverings over him. It smelled like Yuto, and even for just that reason, he would have felt safe. Yuto’s eyes reflected the flame that rested before them and as Ryutaro stared, he realized how different Yuto had become since the first day they met. The boy didn't seem gloomy anymore…
“Yuto-kun….? Thank you…” Ryutaro said finally, as the older boy turned to him again.
“Otouto-kun, we talked about this…. remember? You should never have to thank family…”
“I know….. but…. I want to say it…” Ryutaro replied as his eyes wandered to what was left of the gash on Yuto’s bare back. The large cut that had basically brought them together was finishing up healing now.
“Go to sleep….. it’s too late for you….” Yuto nudged as he tended to the lamp.
“It’s okay…. I’m fine…. Would you… please teach me?”
Yuto thought for a moment, but gave in as he picked up the flute.
“From now on, this flute is yours….. and you’ll learn how to play it…” Yuto smiled as he placed it in Ryutaro’s lap.
“I-I cant take it from you..”
“I want you to have it.”
Ryutaro’s eyes grew wide as he studied the flute, it felt so solid, and yet so light at the same time. He noticed the character carved into one of the ends and squinted to make it out.
“Yuki? Snow?” He read aloud, as Yuto turned to look at him.
“That’s another thing….. you’ll learn how to use this flute…. Ryutaro…”
Ryutaro froze as he heard his name escape Yuto’s lips. He had not heard his own name from Yuto for such a long time, but now as he looked at his brother, the boy’s usually cheery face was gone.
“Use…. It?”
“Ryutaro… there are dangerous people in this world… and while I will do everything to protect you… I want you to be able to protect yourself…..” Yuto said as he reached for the flute. Gently he pulled on one of the ends of the flute and with a small twist…
“Y-Yuto!” Ryutaro gasped as he saw the gleam of a blade appear out of the flute’s shaft. A small sharp short sword length of blade appeared.
“I want you to be able to protect yourself…” Yuto repeated again, and this time Ryutaro saw the look of tiredness in his eyes again.
“Yuto… are you okay? If this… is about your past, you don't have to teach me this… I wont want you to ….relive all that.” Ryutaro said as he felt the boy’s bright atmosphere slowly fade.
“Ryutaro…. I’ve done terrible things….. and there are terrible people coming for me…I know they are…. I can only stay here for so long…” Yuto said as he slowly.
“W-What!? What do you mean!? You’re leaving!?”
“I want…. You to be able to protect yourself….” Yuto repeated.
“No! Tell me what you mean! Don’t go Yuto… don’t go….” Ryutaro felt himself tear up now as he clutched the white Kimono around him.
He felt Yuto’s arms wrap around him and he heard the older boy’s voice.
“I’m not going anywhere for now, but one day I will have to leave here, and when that time comes, I want you to be strong,, I want you to be able to protect our family…. And I want you to promise…. That you won’t come after me.” Yuto said, his voice grew quieter as the words left his lips.
“Yu-“ Before Ryutaro could reply, he felt the arms around him squeeze tightly.
“Promise me Ryutaro…”
“I….I’ll learn…..how to protect myself…. “ Ryutaro nodded and as Yuto nodded his arms let go and he got up.
“I’ll learn to protect myself, so I can protect you…” Ryutaro whispered.
The next few nights, Yuto taught Ryutaro the basic stances, and the ways to use the short blade. He smiled as the little boy would ask at the end of every session to be taught how to actually play the flute.
After a few nights, Ryutaro could play the melody that Yuto played, he learned that it was called “The Snow’s Lament”. It was a piece that represented the dancing snows, jumping and swirling until the sunlight comes, and everything melts away…..
Ryutaro loved the nights where he would wake up wrapped in Yuto’s kimono, he loved the softness of its fabric and the familiarity of its scent. His body would be tired from the trainings at night, but he was content. And he hoped that this would last forever…
“Ryutaro…. I want to show you something….” Yuto said one night, and as Ryutaro blinked blankly, he walked over to Yuto who was doing something to a long box he had pulled out of the closet. He recognized it as a puzzle box, and he watched as Yuto moved the pieces and the box opened. Inside, rested two long white…
“Y-Yuto…..” Ryutaro stumbled as the older boy reached into the box and pulled out two white swords, each sheathed in a case of pure white, the handle, the guard, everything was in white, even a small pair of bells that hung on the end of each sword.
“These are the swords that have seen so much blood, and these are the swords that you will use to protect our family….” Yuto said as he handed one to Ryutaro. Gently Ryutaro pulled the blade out of the sheath and he gasped as the blade didn't seem to be a normal blade either… its highly polished metal was tinted white, just like the rest of the sword itself.
“Yuto….?”
“Ryutaro… the time is coming closer….. and it’s time one of these…. Become yours….” Yuto said as he knelt down.
“N-No! Don’t go… please… don’t go…” The younger boy shook his head as he got down on his knees and wrapped his arms around Yuto.
“Ryu-“
“No! Don’t say my name… “ Ryutaro said sternly, trying to keep from letting his voice break.
“Otouto-kun…..” Yuto sighed as he hugged the little boy in his arms.
“I’m not leaving yet… but I have to teach you how to use it… and besides…” Yuto looked into Ryutaro’s now slightly red eyes.
“… and besides, if I stay here too long, I’ll put you… and my mother…. And father in danger…” He said.
“I… I don't care! We can stay together! We can just… fight together!”
“If you got hurt… I could never forgive myself… you’ve done nothing wrong Ryutaro… and you shouldn’t pay for my crimes…” Yuto said softly, and Ryutaro nearly burst into tears as he saw the tired and dull eyes return to his brother’s face.
“Yuto…” Ryutaro repeated the name over and over again as he held on tightly.
“It’s okay… Otouto-kun…. for tonight… we’ll skip the training okay?” Yuto asked as he wrapped his arms around the still weeping boy again. Ryutaro stayed in Yuto’s arms, he never said a word, but every hour he always tightened his hug around the older boy, if not just to reassure himself he was still there.
“Otouto… do you remember the first day you met me? “ Yuto asked, but Ryutaro didn't answer
“Do you remember how angry you were? How much you hated me?” Yuto continued.
“Isn’t it funny, that now you should be crying about my leaving?”
Ryutaro thought for a moment before allowing himself to lift his head off Yuto’s shoulders. He felt like such a baby, but he couldn’t help himself. He had never had a brother before, and just as he was getting used to it, Yuto was leaving. With watery eyes, he glared at Yuto, causing the first of his tears to leak out. Even though not a single word left his mouth, he knew the older boy understood, and with that done…. He returned to his place resting safely within his brother’s arms.
The night drew on, but Ryutaro didn’t notice. Somewhere between Yuto’s heartbeats he had fallen asleep, and he was laid upon the soft beddings, and Yuto’s kimono found its way over him again.
“I heard what you said…”
Yuto turned around to see Aiko standing in the doorway. The woman was carrying a small tray of crackers and cups of water and tea.
“I also know… that you’ve been running around at night.”
Yuto stared at her. She set down the tray upon the table softly and went to check on Ryutaro.
“He wanted to stay up with you tonight you know… He likes being with you… he’s never had a sibling before….” Aiko smiled as Ryutaro stirred a little when she adjusted the kimono blanket.
“You know… if you go missing, I think it’ll be him that misses you most…..” She continued, turning now to face the older boy. Yuto sighed to himself as he sat down upon the wooden floorboards and gazed up at the moon.
“It’s not often, that we have someone who misses us.” He said as he brushed aside a stray lock of hair.
“Does that mean that when there is, they’re any less significant? Don’t trample upon his feelings….” She warned before Yuto could answer.
“Ryutaro…”
“He is your brother… your little brother… isn’t that what you were looking for when you came here? Family? Why do you have to leave?”
“You don’t understand… I have to leave… because I want to save my family…. Our family….” Yuto said as he gestured towards the sleeping boy.
“Don’t you understand? A family is strongest when they’re together… we the Morimotos may be known for our arts… but Bushido is also an art…..” she hinted.
“Don’t you understand that these people are not the type to be messed with? Don’t you understand that I don't want Ryutaro to grow up with blood on his hands?”
Aiko fell silent as the last sentence bounced around within her mind.
“I spent so many hours crying… as I looked at the first man I killed…. I cried as my father told me to “man up” and he dragged the body home for me to stare at every day. Every time I looked at my hands, I wished they were somebody else’s. I saw blood…… I was a happy child like him! Fighting…. Will destroy him…” Yuto finished as for the first time in quite a while, he felt a slight tremor shake his body.
“Spend the rest of your time with him…. onegai.” Aiko said quietly as she left the room, she knew he was right, but for Ryutaro’s sake, she had to try.
When the room was quiet again, Yuto looked at the boy who slept so peacefully with a smile on his face.
“I guess…. Our days are numbered ne? Ryutaro?” He sighed as he laid down next to the younger boy and he smiled slightly as the minute he did, Ryutaro’s arms wrapped around him and the smallest mumble escaped his mouth.
---The Next Day---
The next day marked the day of the first snowfall of the year, and there was no one happier than Ryutaro about that.
“Otouto! You’ll catch a cold if you run out like that…..” Yuto called as he heard Ryutaro’s fast running footsteps dashing past his room. He smirked to himself as he never took his eyes off his book. The door to his room slowly slid open just enough for a head to pop in.
“You’re no fun….” Ryutaro teased.
“At least I wont be sick…” Yuto replied calmly as he turned a page.
“Mmm…. I don't want to! You’ll have to come get me….!” Ryutaro giggled as he closed the door and ran out of the hallway and out into the vast snow covered hills just outside their mansion.
Yuto sighed as he shut his book and slowly got up….
“Ahhhh! It feel so good!” The little boy giggled and laughed loudly. He stretched his arms out wide to hug the chilly air around him. He turned to see a boy in white staring back at him from the house.
“Yuuuuto! Come play with me!” He called.
“Come back before you get a cold…” Came the reply.
“Come get me!” Ryutaro called again.
Yuto sighed again as he took a step onto the snow and he walked slowly towards the younger boy. Ryutaro bit his lip as he waited until Yuto was within distance and he turned with lightning speed and lunged to tackle him. In a flash of movement, he blinked as he landed upon the soft white snow and Yuto stood behind him.
“Missed me….” Yuto teased.
“Itaii…” Ryutaro whined as he held his elbow.
“What hurts?” Yuto squatted down now as he looked at Ryutaro’s arm.
“You falling into the snow!”
Ryutaro jumped and this time tackled Yuto into the snow, and he laughed and giggled as he held his brother against the white powdery snow. And for the first time, he heard Yuto’s laugh.
“Okay…. You got me…” Yuto conceded as he sat up.
“So long as you know… that means that I get to stay out here for as long as I want” Ryutaro nodded triumphantly.
For the next two hours, Yuto sat underneath a snow covered tree as he watched Ryutaro jump around in the snow. He saw the snow angels the boy made, as well as his less-than-successful attempt to make a snowman.
“Yuuto… I’m sleepy…” Ryutaro whined as he dragged himself to the tree.
“Tired from jumping around?”
Ryutaro nodded.
“Mmm I want to go to sleep..” Ryutaro whined again as he sat down on the ground and leaned his head upon Yuto’s lap.
Yuto sighed as he looked down at the boy in his lap, who had already fallen fast asleep.
“Jeez… what am I going to do with you….” Yuto shook his head as he slowly wrapped his arms beneath the boy’s body and with a couple of tricky moves slowly stood up, his baby bother in his arms. He delicately trudged the trail back to the mansion as two of the house’s servants ran out to greet him.
“Master Nakajima! We can take the young master off your hands-“ The man stopped as Yuto shook his head.
“I’ll take him to his room, please just get the warming lamp in his room ready, and bring some tea to my room.” Yuto said softly as the two men nodded and left.
Yuto reached Ryutaro’s room and with a single finger slid the door open. He slowly knelt down and laid the boy down upon the soft beddings and he pulled the covers over him tightly.
Quietly, he made his way back to his own room. A fresh pot of green tea awaited him and he sat down at the table again, picking up his book. Except this time, there was something else on the table as well.
Yuto picked up a small simple smooth black box, and as he looked at it, his hands began to tremble.
“A-Aiko!” Yuto yelled as he opened the door to his room to see the lady scurrying towards her.
“Who sent this box?”
“I-I don't know, I received it from one of the men who tends the gates, he said that someone had delivered it and said to give it to you…”
Yuto’s eyes grew tense as he focused on the small box in his hand.
“Wha-whats the matter? Are you okay?”
The taller boy didn't answer, he walked back to the small table in his room and set the box down.
“Whats going on?” Aiko asked again.
Yuto’s hands shook as he reached out and slowly slid the top of the box off. Inside lay a three white feathers, all dashed with specks and streaks of red.
Aiko gasped as he realized what they were.
“Bl-Blood?”
“They’re here… “ Yuto said solemly.
“W-What…Whats going on?” The two looked up from the feathers in Yuto’s hand to a groggy Ryutaro who stood in the doorway rubbing his eyes. He saw the terrified look on Aiko’s face and the solemn look on Yuto’s and he knew something was wrong.
“Y-Yuto?” Ryutaro stuttered as he hurried to the table in time to see the three feathers slowly fall onto the wooden surface.
“They’re here…” Yuto repeated.
“T-They?”
“They’re here… and it’s time…for me to leave….”
Ryutaro’s eyes widened as he heard the words he dreaded.
“N-No!” He shook his head as he grabbed Yuto’s hand, clenching tightly.
“Is it already time?” A man’s voice asked.
“Dad…” Ryutaro blinked as the man walked to the table.
“Are you ready to leave?” The man asked as he laid a hand gently upon Yuto’s back.
“Hai..” Yuto bowed.
“Then…. I thank you… for protecting…. Our family…” The man nodded.
“This is stupid!” Ryutaro jumped up, outraged.
“Ryutaro…. He is doing this to protect us…. To protect you.” The younger boy looked at his father with utter annoyance.
“He IS one of us! You knew all about it and you didn't do anything to help! You’re even sending him out!” Ryutaro yelled.
“Ryutaro… we talked about this.” Yuto said calmly.
“I don't want you to go!” Ryutaro was delirious now.
“You know why I have to do this, you knew this day was coming, and you remember the promises you made..” Yuto said calmly still, his voice unwaivering.
“I don’t care! I want you to stay! I want you to stay! Did those days we spent together mean nothing!? Didn't you say you wanted a younger brother? Well here I am! How could you leave me!?” By now, Ryutaro’s voice was growing louder by the second. He fought between crying and shouting as he felt the tears come to his eyes.
“Ryutaro…” Yuto said, his voice barely above a whisper.
“No! I don't want to hear anything else! I just want to hear that you’ll stay!” Ryutaro ran to Yuto’s side and hugged him, his face buried into the soft fabrics of his brother’s snow white kimono. The tears that were threatening to stream down his face now stained the fabric that pressed against him.
“Ryutaro… you know… I cant say that… please… know that I’m doing this…. I have to leave… because… I want you to be safe… so you can take care of our family…. Remember?”
“I don't care! I’ll protect you! I don't want you to be gone!” Ryutaro shook his head as his arms held on tighter.
“Ryutaro…Otouto-kun… so long as you remember me… I’ll never be gone… and when this is all over…. I’ll come back…”
“You could get yourself killed!”
“Then this connection to such a horrible world of killing will end with me…. and your life will be safe…. And peaceful… I can’t stay Ryutaro… you know that” Yuto said softly.
For a moment the room was quiet as no one knew how to console the still crying boy.
Ryutaro looked up at his brother, those dull and tired eyes had returned, and that made him feel even worse.
“I… hate… you…” Ryutaro managed in between sniffles as he shoved Yuto away and ran out of the room.
An awkward silence hung in the air as Aiko and the head of the Morimoto family sat staring at Yuto. He never moved, his eyes still staring at where Ryutaro’s eyes were. In his head, he heard the words repeating over and over again. He didn't move a single inch as he slowly pried apart his lips…
“I’ll be gone…. By late tonight…..” He said. Aiko sniffled slightly as she and the older man nodded and left…
When the door to the room closed, Yuto was left alone, and the small light given by the lamp faded away. And for the first time in so many years, Yuto... cried.
---Later That Night---
Ryutaro had managed to cry himself to sleep that night, but now he awoke, feeling the strange sense that something was out of the ordinary. He wondered what it was, and as his mind replayed the events of what he hoped would turn out to be a terrible dream, he remembered.
Yuto’s flute, was not sounding…
He jumped out of bed and ran to Yuto’s room the silent air around him made him shiver as he slowly slid the door open to find the room empty. He walked in, hoping that Yuto was just in the closet or just outside, but he knew the boy was gone. Shakily, he walked to the table that Yuto always sat at and collapsed upon the soft tatami covered floor as he saw a small bundle on its wooden surface, a letter bearing his name on it sitting softly on top. A single still trembling hand reached out for the letter and unfolded it, revealing Yuto’s neatly written letters.
Ryutaro,
If you’re reading this…. I’ve already left… I’m so glad that I had the chance, to have you as my cute little brother. I’m so thankful that you accepted me… even if you hated me. I’ll always remember the days we had together, and I’ll always remember the way you called my name… I don't have many pleasant memories, but I think with you, I’ve made up for all that I’ve missed. You have to protect this family, with all that I taught you.. if anything should come…. You have to take our mother and father far away from here… run, and don't look back. Remember your promise to me… to keep this family together.
Even if you hate me… I’ll still love you, my little baby brother…..
Yuto.
Ryutaro cried harder as he read the letter and he dropped the thin sheaf of paper upon the floor, his own tears falling upon the small wet spots where Yuto’s own tears had stained the paper. Still trembling, he reached out for the wrapped bundle and undid the knot to find one of the two pure white swords laying atop one of Yuto’s silky white kimonos.
Ryutaro wailed louder as he picked up the sword and threw it to the side, he hated it. He hated it and all that it stood for. He buried himself into the neatly folded kimono and he wept as his eyes recognized it as his favorite kimono, the one that bore a Dragon in its designs. Through his cries he heard the sounds of bells jingling and the sound of the massive gate door opening.
“Yuto!” Ryutaro snapped up as he hugged the silky bundle in his arms and ran towards the gate of the estate. He got there just as the doors were closing, and he could see the outline of a thin tall figure walking out in the snow, he had little more than a sword attached to the hip, and a white cloak that his face from the world. Ryutaro rubbed his eyes as he tried his best to see Yuto against the stark white snow, and for a moment he saw the figure again.
“Yuto Come back! Yuto! Come back! I’m sorry… I’m sorry! Come … back…” Ryutaro ran out towards the gate, his vision blurry now as he lost track of the boy, but could hear the sounds of the bells on the sword. He heard them jingle as he walked and he ran faster towards them, until he ran into the gate, its wrought iron bars held him in like a prison.
“Yuto! Come back! Please!” He cried harder as he shouted for someone to open the gate. The man who tended to the gate saw the desperation in the boy’s voice and he made to open the door again. The hinges squeaked their protest at being repeatedly opened and closed, the gate moved slowly as its massive size hindered its speed.
By the time the gate had opened enough for Ryutaro to squeeze through, he could barely hear the bells anymore.
“Yuto!” Ryutaro called out as he ran out in the now deep snow. He saw the faint outline of the white figure for just a second, before it faded away into the blizzard of whiteness that stretched beyond the mansion grounds. Though Ryutaro ran as fast as he could, his body was no match for the deep snow, and his voice never reached his brother.
“Nii-Chan…” Ryutaro cried as he fell forward, stumbling upon a root that hid in the snow. He fell onto the Kimono he clutched in his arms as he felt the bitter cold bite into him.
“You said you wanted me….. to call you…. Nii-Chan…come back…Nii-Chan…please…” Ryutaro cried and sniffled as the cold began to shut his body down. The little boy’s eyes closed as he struggled to whisper the words his brother would never hear.
“Nii-chan… come back…”
And suddenly... The world was dark…….
(>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<)
Sorry it took so long Minna! I hope you enjoyed the story! Once again, Comment! Please! I love hearing from you! The more the better the longer the better!
~Emmie
Requested by: Everyone who took part in my poll
Title: The Snow's Lament - Part 2
Rating: R
Genre: Angst, Family, some fluff
Pairing: RyuuJima (Yuto/Ryutaro) <- Brotherly love
Summary: Remember that little poll I had a while ago? Well, I finally got around to making a quick story about it! I hope you like it
Notes: Stay tuned for the next chapter folks!
The next day, Ryutaro woke up to find himself laying in Yuto’s room. The older boy was nowhere to be found. He sat up quickly just as the doors opened.
“Aiko?”
“Ah! Ryuu-Chan, Yuto-kun said you’d be in his room, I was a little worried when you weren’t there when I came to wake you.”
“S-Sorry…” Ryutaro bowed slightly.
“Ma…. It’s okay, so? Did you get to know your brother?”
“Un…. “
“And?”
“I don't know…. I know now…. That I was overthinking it…. But I still don't fully know…. How I feel.. about him… you know?” Ryutaro paused every few words.
“It’ll be okay.. in time, you’ll find out each other’s feelings, and maybe then you can begin to understand them.”
The woman nodded as she turned around and left.
Ryutaro wandered aimlessly through the days, his flower arrangements drew much praise and his calligraphy attracted even his father’s attention. But despite all this, Ryutaro felt no happiness, instead, he felt longing…. He wanted the nights to come quicker, so he could go and visit Yuto again.
While he may have seen the older boy walking around the mansion, he always felt it would be awkward if he were to suddenly pop up beside him, and thought it best to wait until tonight.
The day dragged on and Ryutaro sighed as at last the sun began to fall beneath the horizon and the world was dark again.
Ryutaro would always wait until the last streaks of light went away and the light of the new moon shone in the sky. It was then that he would walk over to Yuto’s and the boy was always ready to receive him. Lately, he had taken to falling asleep in there. On this particular night though, the little boy wanted to stay awake with Yuto, and he even made Aiko promise to come in sometime during the night with food.
“Yuto-kun? Could…. You… teach me how to play?” Ryutaro asked suddenly as he looked at the small wooden flute that Yuto always played at nights.
“Sure… anything you want” Yuto replied as he sat down beside the small lamp that provided warmth for the room. He noticed a small shiver in Ryutaro and smiled as he took off his white silk outer kimono coat and draped it over him. Ryutaro smiled gratefully as he pulled the soft coverings over him. It smelled like Yuto, and even for just that reason, he would have felt safe. Yuto’s eyes reflected the flame that rested before them and as Ryutaro stared, he realized how different Yuto had become since the first day they met. The boy didn't seem gloomy anymore…
“Yuto-kun….? Thank you…” Ryutaro said finally, as the older boy turned to him again.
“Otouto-kun, we talked about this…. remember? You should never have to thank family…”
“I know….. but…. I want to say it…” Ryutaro replied as his eyes wandered to what was left of the gash on Yuto’s bare back. The large cut that had basically brought them together was finishing up healing now.
“Go to sleep….. it’s too late for you….” Yuto nudged as he tended to the lamp.
“It’s okay…. I’m fine…. Would you… please teach me?”
Yuto thought for a moment, but gave in as he picked up the flute.
“From now on, this flute is yours….. and you’ll learn how to play it…” Yuto smiled as he placed it in Ryutaro’s lap.
“I-I cant take it from you..”
“I want you to have it.”
Ryutaro’s eyes grew wide as he studied the flute, it felt so solid, and yet so light at the same time. He noticed the character carved into one of the ends and squinted to make it out.
“Yuki? Snow?” He read aloud, as Yuto turned to look at him.
“That’s another thing….. you’ll learn how to use this flute…. Ryutaro…”
Ryutaro froze as he heard his name escape Yuto’s lips. He had not heard his own name from Yuto for such a long time, but now as he looked at his brother, the boy’s usually cheery face was gone.
“Use…. It?”
“Ryutaro… there are dangerous people in this world… and while I will do everything to protect you… I want you to be able to protect yourself…..” Yuto said as he reached for the flute. Gently he pulled on one of the ends of the flute and with a small twist…
“Y-Yuto!” Ryutaro gasped as he saw the gleam of a blade appear out of the flute’s shaft. A small sharp short sword length of blade appeared.
“I want you to be able to protect yourself…” Yuto repeated again, and this time Ryutaro saw the look of tiredness in his eyes again.
“Yuto… are you okay? If this… is about your past, you don't have to teach me this… I wont want you to ….relive all that.” Ryutaro said as he felt the boy’s bright atmosphere slowly fade.
“Ryutaro…. I’ve done terrible things….. and there are terrible people coming for me…I know they are…. I can only stay here for so long…” Yuto said as he slowly.
“W-What!? What do you mean!? You’re leaving!?”
“I want…. You to be able to protect yourself….” Yuto repeated.
“No! Tell me what you mean! Don’t go Yuto… don’t go….” Ryutaro felt himself tear up now as he clutched the white Kimono around him.
He felt Yuto’s arms wrap around him and he heard the older boy’s voice.
“I’m not going anywhere for now, but one day I will have to leave here, and when that time comes, I want you to be strong,, I want you to be able to protect our family…. And I want you to promise…. That you won’t come after me.” Yuto said, his voice grew quieter as the words left his lips.
“Yu-“ Before Ryutaro could reply, he felt the arms around him squeeze tightly.
“Promise me Ryutaro…”
“I….I’ll learn…..how to protect myself…. “ Ryutaro nodded and as Yuto nodded his arms let go and he got up.
“I’ll learn to protect myself, so I can protect you…” Ryutaro whispered.
The next few nights, Yuto taught Ryutaro the basic stances, and the ways to use the short blade. He smiled as the little boy would ask at the end of every session to be taught how to actually play the flute.
After a few nights, Ryutaro could play the melody that Yuto played, he learned that it was called “The Snow’s Lament”. It was a piece that represented the dancing snows, jumping and swirling until the sunlight comes, and everything melts away…..
Ryutaro loved the nights where he would wake up wrapped in Yuto’s kimono, he loved the softness of its fabric and the familiarity of its scent. His body would be tired from the trainings at night, but he was content. And he hoped that this would last forever…
“Ryutaro…. I want to show you something….” Yuto said one night, and as Ryutaro blinked blankly, he walked over to Yuto who was doing something to a long box he had pulled out of the closet. He recognized it as a puzzle box, and he watched as Yuto moved the pieces and the box opened. Inside, rested two long white…
“Y-Yuto…..” Ryutaro stumbled as the older boy reached into the box and pulled out two white swords, each sheathed in a case of pure white, the handle, the guard, everything was in white, even a small pair of bells that hung on the end of each sword.
“These are the swords that have seen so much blood, and these are the swords that you will use to protect our family….” Yuto said as he handed one to Ryutaro. Gently Ryutaro pulled the blade out of the sheath and he gasped as the blade didn't seem to be a normal blade either… its highly polished metal was tinted white, just like the rest of the sword itself.
“Yuto….?”
“Ryutaro… the time is coming closer….. and it’s time one of these…. Become yours….” Yuto said as he knelt down.
“N-No! Don’t go… please… don’t go…” The younger boy shook his head as he got down on his knees and wrapped his arms around Yuto.
“Ryu-“
“No! Don’t say my name… “ Ryutaro said sternly, trying to keep from letting his voice break.
“Otouto-kun…..” Yuto sighed as he hugged the little boy in his arms.
“I’m not leaving yet… but I have to teach you how to use it… and besides…” Yuto looked into Ryutaro’s now slightly red eyes.
“… and besides, if I stay here too long, I’ll put you… and my mother…. And father in danger…” He said.
“I… I don't care! We can stay together! We can just… fight together!”
“If you got hurt… I could never forgive myself… you’ve done nothing wrong Ryutaro… and you shouldn’t pay for my crimes…” Yuto said softly, and Ryutaro nearly burst into tears as he saw the tired and dull eyes return to his brother’s face.
“Yuto…” Ryutaro repeated the name over and over again as he held on tightly.
“It’s okay… Otouto-kun…. for tonight… we’ll skip the training okay?” Yuto asked as he wrapped his arms around the still weeping boy again. Ryutaro stayed in Yuto’s arms, he never said a word, but every hour he always tightened his hug around the older boy, if not just to reassure himself he was still there.
“Otouto… do you remember the first day you met me? “ Yuto asked, but Ryutaro didn't answer
“Do you remember how angry you were? How much you hated me?” Yuto continued.
“Isn’t it funny, that now you should be crying about my leaving?”
Ryutaro thought for a moment before allowing himself to lift his head off Yuto’s shoulders. He felt like such a baby, but he couldn’t help himself. He had never had a brother before, and just as he was getting used to it, Yuto was leaving. With watery eyes, he glared at Yuto, causing the first of his tears to leak out. Even though not a single word left his mouth, he knew the older boy understood, and with that done…. He returned to his place resting safely within his brother’s arms.
The night drew on, but Ryutaro didn’t notice. Somewhere between Yuto’s heartbeats he had fallen asleep, and he was laid upon the soft beddings, and Yuto’s kimono found its way over him again.
“I heard what you said…”
Yuto turned around to see Aiko standing in the doorway. The woman was carrying a small tray of crackers and cups of water and tea.
“I also know… that you’ve been running around at night.”
Yuto stared at her. She set down the tray upon the table softly and went to check on Ryutaro.
“He wanted to stay up with you tonight you know… He likes being with you… he’s never had a sibling before….” Aiko smiled as Ryutaro stirred a little when she adjusted the kimono blanket.
“You know… if you go missing, I think it’ll be him that misses you most…..” She continued, turning now to face the older boy. Yuto sighed to himself as he sat down upon the wooden floorboards and gazed up at the moon.
“It’s not often, that we have someone who misses us.” He said as he brushed aside a stray lock of hair.
“Does that mean that when there is, they’re any less significant? Don’t trample upon his feelings….” She warned before Yuto could answer.
“Ryutaro…”
“He is your brother… your little brother… isn’t that what you were looking for when you came here? Family? Why do you have to leave?”
“You don’t understand… I have to leave… because I want to save my family…. Our family….” Yuto said as he gestured towards the sleeping boy.
“Don’t you understand? A family is strongest when they’re together… we the Morimotos may be known for our arts… but Bushido is also an art…..” she hinted.
“Don’t you understand that these people are not the type to be messed with? Don’t you understand that I don't want Ryutaro to grow up with blood on his hands?”
Aiko fell silent as the last sentence bounced around within her mind.
“I spent so many hours crying… as I looked at the first man I killed…. I cried as my father told me to “man up” and he dragged the body home for me to stare at every day. Every time I looked at my hands, I wished they were somebody else’s. I saw blood…… I was a happy child like him! Fighting…. Will destroy him…” Yuto finished as for the first time in quite a while, he felt a slight tremor shake his body.
“Spend the rest of your time with him…. onegai.” Aiko said quietly as she left the room, she knew he was right, but for Ryutaro’s sake, she had to try.
When the room was quiet again, Yuto looked at the boy who slept so peacefully with a smile on his face.
“I guess…. Our days are numbered ne? Ryutaro?” He sighed as he laid down next to the younger boy and he smiled slightly as the minute he did, Ryutaro’s arms wrapped around him and the smallest mumble escaped his mouth.
---The Next Day---
The next day marked the day of the first snowfall of the year, and there was no one happier than Ryutaro about that.
“Otouto! You’ll catch a cold if you run out like that…..” Yuto called as he heard Ryutaro’s fast running footsteps dashing past his room. He smirked to himself as he never took his eyes off his book. The door to his room slowly slid open just enough for a head to pop in.
“You’re no fun….” Ryutaro teased.
“At least I wont be sick…” Yuto replied calmly as he turned a page.
“Mmm…. I don't want to! You’ll have to come get me….!” Ryutaro giggled as he closed the door and ran out of the hallway and out into the vast snow covered hills just outside their mansion.
Yuto sighed as he shut his book and slowly got up….
“Ahhhh! It feel so good!” The little boy giggled and laughed loudly. He stretched his arms out wide to hug the chilly air around him. He turned to see a boy in white staring back at him from the house.
“Yuuuuto! Come play with me!” He called.
“Come back before you get a cold…” Came the reply.
“Come get me!” Ryutaro called again.
Yuto sighed again as he took a step onto the snow and he walked slowly towards the younger boy. Ryutaro bit his lip as he waited until Yuto was within distance and he turned with lightning speed and lunged to tackle him. In a flash of movement, he blinked as he landed upon the soft white snow and Yuto stood behind him.
“Missed me….” Yuto teased.
“Itaii…” Ryutaro whined as he held his elbow.
“What hurts?” Yuto squatted down now as he looked at Ryutaro’s arm.
“You falling into the snow!”
Ryutaro jumped and this time tackled Yuto into the snow, and he laughed and giggled as he held his brother against the white powdery snow. And for the first time, he heard Yuto’s laugh.
“Okay…. You got me…” Yuto conceded as he sat up.
“So long as you know… that means that I get to stay out here for as long as I want” Ryutaro nodded triumphantly.
For the next two hours, Yuto sat underneath a snow covered tree as he watched Ryutaro jump around in the snow. He saw the snow angels the boy made, as well as his less-than-successful attempt to make a snowman.
“Yuuto… I’m sleepy…” Ryutaro whined as he dragged himself to the tree.
“Tired from jumping around?”
Ryutaro nodded.
“Mmm I want to go to sleep..” Ryutaro whined again as he sat down on the ground and leaned his head upon Yuto’s lap.
Yuto sighed as he looked down at the boy in his lap, who had already fallen fast asleep.
“Jeez… what am I going to do with you….” Yuto shook his head as he slowly wrapped his arms beneath the boy’s body and with a couple of tricky moves slowly stood up, his baby bother in his arms. He delicately trudged the trail back to the mansion as two of the house’s servants ran out to greet him.
“Master Nakajima! We can take the young master off your hands-“ The man stopped as Yuto shook his head.
“I’ll take him to his room, please just get the warming lamp in his room ready, and bring some tea to my room.” Yuto said softly as the two men nodded and left.
Yuto reached Ryutaro’s room and with a single finger slid the door open. He slowly knelt down and laid the boy down upon the soft beddings and he pulled the covers over him tightly.
Quietly, he made his way back to his own room. A fresh pot of green tea awaited him and he sat down at the table again, picking up his book. Except this time, there was something else on the table as well.
Yuto picked up a small simple smooth black box, and as he looked at it, his hands began to tremble.
“A-Aiko!” Yuto yelled as he opened the door to his room to see the lady scurrying towards her.
“Who sent this box?”
“I-I don't know, I received it from one of the men who tends the gates, he said that someone had delivered it and said to give it to you…”
Yuto’s eyes grew tense as he focused on the small box in his hand.
“Wha-whats the matter? Are you okay?”
The taller boy didn't answer, he walked back to the small table in his room and set the box down.
“Whats going on?” Aiko asked again.
Yuto’s hands shook as he reached out and slowly slid the top of the box off. Inside lay a three white feathers, all dashed with specks and streaks of red.
Aiko gasped as he realized what they were.
“Bl-Blood?”
“They’re here… “ Yuto said solemly.
“W-What…Whats going on?” The two looked up from the feathers in Yuto’s hand to a groggy Ryutaro who stood in the doorway rubbing his eyes. He saw the terrified look on Aiko’s face and the solemn look on Yuto’s and he knew something was wrong.
“Y-Yuto?” Ryutaro stuttered as he hurried to the table in time to see the three feathers slowly fall onto the wooden surface.
“They’re here…” Yuto repeated.
“T-They?”
“They’re here… and it’s time…for me to leave….”
Ryutaro’s eyes widened as he heard the words he dreaded.
“N-No!” He shook his head as he grabbed Yuto’s hand, clenching tightly.
“Is it already time?” A man’s voice asked.
“Dad…” Ryutaro blinked as the man walked to the table.
“Are you ready to leave?” The man asked as he laid a hand gently upon Yuto’s back.
“Hai..” Yuto bowed.
“Then…. I thank you… for protecting…. Our family…” The man nodded.
“This is stupid!” Ryutaro jumped up, outraged.
“Ryutaro…. He is doing this to protect us…. To protect you.” The younger boy looked at his father with utter annoyance.
“He IS one of us! You knew all about it and you didn't do anything to help! You’re even sending him out!” Ryutaro yelled.
“Ryutaro… we talked about this.” Yuto said calmly.
“I don't want you to go!” Ryutaro was delirious now.
“You know why I have to do this, you knew this day was coming, and you remember the promises you made..” Yuto said calmly still, his voice unwaivering.
“I don’t care! I want you to stay! I want you to stay! Did those days we spent together mean nothing!? Didn't you say you wanted a younger brother? Well here I am! How could you leave me!?” By now, Ryutaro’s voice was growing louder by the second. He fought between crying and shouting as he felt the tears come to his eyes.
“Ryutaro…” Yuto said, his voice barely above a whisper.
“No! I don't want to hear anything else! I just want to hear that you’ll stay!” Ryutaro ran to Yuto’s side and hugged him, his face buried into the soft fabrics of his brother’s snow white kimono. The tears that were threatening to stream down his face now stained the fabric that pressed against him.
“Ryutaro… you know… I cant say that… please… know that I’m doing this…. I have to leave… because… I want you to be safe… so you can take care of our family…. Remember?”
“I don't care! I’ll protect you! I don't want you to be gone!” Ryutaro shook his head as his arms held on tighter.
“Ryutaro…Otouto-kun… so long as you remember me… I’ll never be gone… and when this is all over…. I’ll come back…”
“You could get yourself killed!”
“Then this connection to such a horrible world of killing will end with me…. and your life will be safe…. And peaceful… I can’t stay Ryutaro… you know that” Yuto said softly.
For a moment the room was quiet as no one knew how to console the still crying boy.
Ryutaro looked up at his brother, those dull and tired eyes had returned, and that made him feel even worse.
“I… hate… you…” Ryutaro managed in between sniffles as he shoved Yuto away and ran out of the room.
An awkward silence hung in the air as Aiko and the head of the Morimoto family sat staring at Yuto. He never moved, his eyes still staring at where Ryutaro’s eyes were. In his head, he heard the words repeating over and over again. He didn't move a single inch as he slowly pried apart his lips…
“I’ll be gone…. By late tonight…..” He said. Aiko sniffled slightly as she and the older man nodded and left…
When the door to the room closed, Yuto was left alone, and the small light given by the lamp faded away. And for the first time in so many years, Yuto... cried.
---Later That Night---
Ryutaro had managed to cry himself to sleep that night, but now he awoke, feeling the strange sense that something was out of the ordinary. He wondered what it was, and as his mind replayed the events of what he hoped would turn out to be a terrible dream, he remembered.
Yuto’s flute, was not sounding…
He jumped out of bed and ran to Yuto’s room the silent air around him made him shiver as he slowly slid the door open to find the room empty. He walked in, hoping that Yuto was just in the closet or just outside, but he knew the boy was gone. Shakily, he walked to the table that Yuto always sat at and collapsed upon the soft tatami covered floor as he saw a small bundle on its wooden surface, a letter bearing his name on it sitting softly on top. A single still trembling hand reached out for the letter and unfolded it, revealing Yuto’s neatly written letters.
Ryutaro,
If you’re reading this…. I’ve already left… I’m so glad that I had the chance, to have you as my cute little brother. I’m so thankful that you accepted me… even if you hated me. I’ll always remember the days we had together, and I’ll always remember the way you called my name… I don't have many pleasant memories, but I think with you, I’ve made up for all that I’ve missed. You have to protect this family, with all that I taught you.. if anything should come…. You have to take our mother and father far away from here… run, and don't look back. Remember your promise to me… to keep this family together.
Even if you hate me… I’ll still love you, my little baby brother…..
Yuto.
Ryutaro cried harder as he read the letter and he dropped the thin sheaf of paper upon the floor, his own tears falling upon the small wet spots where Yuto’s own tears had stained the paper. Still trembling, he reached out for the wrapped bundle and undid the knot to find one of the two pure white swords laying atop one of Yuto’s silky white kimonos.
Ryutaro wailed louder as he picked up the sword and threw it to the side, he hated it. He hated it and all that it stood for. He buried himself into the neatly folded kimono and he wept as his eyes recognized it as his favorite kimono, the one that bore a Dragon in its designs. Through his cries he heard the sounds of bells jingling and the sound of the massive gate door opening.
“Yuto!” Ryutaro snapped up as he hugged the silky bundle in his arms and ran towards the gate of the estate. He got there just as the doors were closing, and he could see the outline of a thin tall figure walking out in the snow, he had little more than a sword attached to the hip, and a white cloak that his face from the world. Ryutaro rubbed his eyes as he tried his best to see Yuto against the stark white snow, and for a moment he saw the figure again.
“Yuto Come back! Yuto! Come back! I’m sorry… I’m sorry! Come … back…” Ryutaro ran out towards the gate, his vision blurry now as he lost track of the boy, but could hear the sounds of the bells on the sword. He heard them jingle as he walked and he ran faster towards them, until he ran into the gate, its wrought iron bars held him in like a prison.
“Yuto! Come back! Please!” He cried harder as he shouted for someone to open the gate. The man who tended to the gate saw the desperation in the boy’s voice and he made to open the door again. The hinges squeaked their protest at being repeatedly opened and closed, the gate moved slowly as its massive size hindered its speed.
By the time the gate had opened enough for Ryutaro to squeeze through, he could barely hear the bells anymore.
“Yuto!” Ryutaro called out as he ran out in the now deep snow. He saw the faint outline of the white figure for just a second, before it faded away into the blizzard of whiteness that stretched beyond the mansion grounds. Though Ryutaro ran as fast as he could, his body was no match for the deep snow, and his voice never reached his brother.
“Nii-Chan…” Ryutaro cried as he fell forward, stumbling upon a root that hid in the snow. He fell onto the Kimono he clutched in his arms as he felt the bitter cold bite into him.
“You said you wanted me….. to call you…. Nii-Chan…come back…Nii-Chan…please…” Ryutaro cried and sniffled as the cold began to shut his body down. The little boy’s eyes closed as he struggled to whisper the words his brother would never hear.
“Nii-chan… come back…”
And suddenly... The world was dark…….
(>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<) (>’_’)><(‘_’<)
Sorry it took so long Minna! I hope you enjoyed the story! Once again, Comment! Please! I love hearing from you! The more the better the longer the better!
~Emmie