Chapter 20

Author: Thanks for reading and for supporting me.

.................... Am alone this time. *Sigh, fina……......

*Knock, knock.

Author: Don't enter!!!!!!!

*********️️***

He met his former comrade in Blue Town. Right after he left Mira and Den at the river.

Walking on the streets, he noticed he was being followed and when he confronted the person, he turned out to be his former comrade.

Coincidence, right?

No it wasn't.

Yuuki knew the guy had been following him, even though he never sensed or noticed his presence once.

He had to say, he has improved.

On meeting the exact person he planned to, Yuuki wasted no time and shared what happened. And also showed him the golden manhole key, and though his former comrade had no idea of it, he did promise to look into it.

Afterwards, they part ways.

Having those strong feelings again, and his sword unable to reason, he decided to follow Den again.

Well, this time, he knew where Den was heading.

During their last encounter, Den told him his next destination.

Remember when Den kicked aside the meaning and importance of personal space and got closer to whisper something?

Well, it was his next destination he whispered to him.

And true enough, Den was heading there. It was like a miracle he caught up to him. One he received with thanks and followed Den all the way.

(Now we know, Yuuki was the company Den talked about)

He wanted it to be another coincidence, but after Den checked in, he never came out of his room until tonight, three days later.

(Yes, Yuuki was the man, dressed in black, wore a black mask and occupied the table behind Den's own in the inn. Well, why am I sharing? You guys are smart. You already knew about it)

Yuuki did check up on him and it turns out he was only asleep. Nothing was wrong with him.

Being considerate, he decided to wait until he woke up.

But who knew this would happen?

Yuuki, far gone during his stay while waiting for Den to wake up, didn't sense anything.

He had no idea Live village was attacked until the manager shared.

He felt guilty. If only he paid attention, then this wouldn't have happened right?

Where was Den anyways?

Though it wasn't hard to see with the help of the moon, he still lost the guy.

He was right behind him some time ago but Den was too fast and he couldn't catch up due to his body's condition.

Searching, he noticed the burnt houses but no one around. The visible blood stains couldn't be ignored either. On the ground, some of the remains of the burnt houses,...........it wasn't a pleasant sight.

Come to think of it, at the entrance of the village, there was a huge board.

'Repenting' written on it. He didn't see it when he last visited and he wondered what it was about.

Was it related to this disaster?

Gosh, Yuuki had no idea on how to feel about this.

However, at the moment, he was more worried about Den.

He had to find him.

Impatient and in panic, he checked the burnt houses nearby and there was no sign of Den.

He desperately needed help, but the strong feelings and his sword proved useless.

The only thing he could hear from them was 'Find him'

It was a strong feeling he felt and could hear loud and clear. Which was irritating cause he didn't need that now.

What exactly did he know about Den?

Nothing.

How was he related to Live village?

No idea.

He knew nothing about this guy!

Where could he have gone? Did he know someone in the village?

Or.........an idea came to mind.

How about checking the main house.

Could be useless but it was okay to try right? He has already checked more than five houses and found nothing but ruins.

He should at least try.

And so, he made his way to the ruined main house.

The house was in a bad shape. Collapsed, burnt......was he (Den) really here?

Looking around, he called out to Den but got no answer. Yuuki was starting to think it was useless coming here after all and just when he was about to turn and leave, he felt a strong urge to look to his right.

He couldn't ignore it and followed it. His eyes caught something from not far. Looked something like a silhouette of a person. Getting close for a clear view, he realized it was Den.

Yuuki was sure it was him even though his back was to him while he knelt on the ground.

He was just about to call out to him when Den stood up and dashed out of there. Heading for God knows where.

Worried, Yuuki chased after him.

Den couldn't think straight. He has searched the ruins for survivors but found nothing.

He was devastated, guilt consuming him when he suddenly remembered something.

********️️***

SHED

The old run-down shed, this was what he remembered.

Den stood before it, Yuuki, whom he still hadn't noticed, behind him.

Den noticed the shed was the only place that wasn't burnt and was in its perfect shape.

However, he had no time to think about why it was so.

He rushed in, Yuuki behind him.

Entering, he noticed the shed was exactly as it was when he first visited.

Except, this time, there were no dead bodies around. The bodies might have been buried already.

It looked neat, still rundown and empty. Nothing looked different.

"Is there anyone here!! Speak out!" He repeatedly said in desperation, refusing to accept the harsh reality.

There was no one there.

"Hey......" Yuuki gently called out to him but Den showed no reaction.

Consumed by guilt and sorrow.

Den blamed himself.

He suspected Live village was next but still came too late.

If only he didn't rest in the inn. If only he made his way here the moment he reached the area, then this wouldn't have happened.

He would have been able to protect everyone. Mr. Eld, Mr Tin and his two children,.........the old couple's neighbors,......Live inn's manager......chief Sable,...... captain Ger,......he couldn't save any of them.

If only he came sooner, he would have been able to save that kid.

Zil,.......the innocent kid was killed because of him.

Den felt so miserable, never thinking he'll feel this way again after that day.

A helpless Yuuki watched as he fell on his knees, going through something he knew as grief........but.......

Suddenly, a faint bang was heard. Having a great sense of hearing, they both heard, and they were alert.

It came from below.

At this very moment, Den remembered something important.

One he should have along with this location.

But what was that bang? Could it be a survivor?

Or....... was it something his mind made up?

And like Yuuki heard his thoughts, he confirmed, "I heard it. That bang. It came from below"

Both looked down and immediately, Den decided to follow through with his plan. Ignoring everything. It might not be a survivor. It might be dangerous. But at the moment, he didn't care.

Getting up, he rushed to the entrance and closed his eyes, recounting that day and began to walk.

Counting.

One, Two, Three, Four, Five, Six,.........and he made a stop.

This was it.

That day he was drugged and brought to Spider's hideout, it was this place that he was brought.

On arriving, he counted the steps. Six steps, and then.........

He bent down, and began removing the wooden floor.

Sure enough, something was revealed.

A hidden passageway.

Surprised, Yuuki held his hand before he could take another one out,........."It might be dangerous" a concern Yuuki said to him but at this moment, Den had no idea of the meaning of dangerous.

He coldly shrugged off his hand, stating, "Someone might still be alive"

Making Yuuki wonder if he recognizes him.

His…........what? Friend? What exactly were they?

Strangers. That's what they were.

Feeling dejected, Yuuki willingly stepped aside, letting him have his way and Den wasted no time.

He made sure the entrance was huge enough before going down the stairs, heading to the underground which used to be a hideout for the late Spider.

Hopeful and worried, Den sped up, not concerned about the possible danger like Yuuki was.

In no time, they reached.

However, the moment they reached the entrance of the opening, a ball of fire was shot their way.

Being fast, Den skillfully dodged it and the fireball, not strong enough due to lack of magic power, immediately died down before it could reach Yuuki.

Looking ahead, Yuuki was ready to draw out his sword to fight the threat, however, what they saw dismissed all thoughts of fighting back.

The room was lit with candles, they could see, and recognized who it was.

"Zil" Den called out to the boy in shock, relief, washing over his precious soul.

Before them stood a weak looking Zil. Shaking. Recognizing the voice, he recognized the person whom he almost hurt and tried to apologize.

"B—Brother Den" however, this was all he could say. His body gave up, his eyes closing, and just when he was about to fall, Den rushed over to catch him.

"I'm sorry" he forced out the words before losing consciousness completely.

Relief, glad, grateful, Den said, "I don't want to hear it. Am just glad you're alive"

Den was deeply affected by this and Yuuki could tell he was trying hard not to shed tears.

He was also affected.

Demon Island.........

Yuuki had no idea of these people. He never wanted a part in the magic world or the sword art world after what he went through.

He only wanted to make sure his former master was safe and happy.

But now........it seems his mind has changed.

Silently, Yuuki made a promise to himself. One, no one heard, but his eyes proved it was something sinister, one he intended to keep.

At any cost.

*********️️****

INN

An unconscious Zil was taken back to the inn. Luckily, their rooms weren't given out yet and they got it back. Of course, with their belongings still intact and still safely in their rooms.

On their way, Den carried the unconscious Zil in his arms, refusing any help Yuuki offered. Bent on doing everything on his own. And Yuuki couldn't help but wonder if it was guilt.

Guess he (Den) felt exactly what he felt.

Den's bed was given to Zil and while watching over him, he (Den) also fell asleep beside him.

Yuuki, awake and in the room, kept watch while the two rested.

Holding tightly onto his sword, he glared fiercely at nothing, lost in his own thoughts when suddenly,

"!!" Den screamed out, waking up from a nightmare.

A now concerned Yuuki watched as he sat up, breathing heavily, and he wondered, what was it that he dreamt about.

Taking a few seconds to regain himself, Den finally realized where he was and what he just did.

Immediately, he looked at the sleeping Zil next to him, worried he woke him up with his loud scream.

To his relief, Zil was still asleep. However, his expression didn't look okay.

Looks like he was having a nightmare, just like he did.

Den was puzzled. Should he wake him up?

"Are you okay?" He asked and Den looked at his direction, giving him his attention. Relief washed over Den the moment he saw Yuuki. He was still here.

Smiling, he (Den) asked, "Want to drink?"

*******️

The next scene shows the two at the table. Seated opposite each other.

Their ordered bottles (Three) on the table. It was around 11pm and someone was still awake. Of course, it was the youngest waiter. Being the youngest and inexperienced, he was forced to stay up, in case any of the guests needed help. This was also a way for him to gain experience.

What an unfortunate soul.

After pouring Yuuki a glass, he poured one for him. He was just about to pick up his glass when Yuuki surprised him with his drinking skill.

The man (Yuuki) wasted no time, drinking everything in a go.

This was the strongest liquor in the house and he downed that with ease.

Hold on, let me share this before we continue.

So, the two have no plans of revealing their faces now, and can you believe it? They chose to enjoy their liquor this way.

They pulled up their masks, freeing their mouths for the liquor.

Is weird, but who says it is not working?

This way, they got to enjoy their drinks and their appearance was still hidden.

They killed two birds with one stone.

"Thanks," Yuuki said, placing the empty glass on the table.

Smiling, Den drunk his own before replying, "You're welcome" and then proceed to pour them another glass of the strong liquor while saying, "I guess I've found my partner as well"

One who could drink just like he (Den) could.

This truly was a blessing. He'll no longer feel lonely when drinking.

"By the way, I see you sleep with the mask on" Yuuki said, taking a sip of his liquor, Den doing the same.

During the three days he was asleep and he checked up on him, Yuuki noticed he wore the mask.

He could have taken it off, then he'll see what he looked like but he decided against it.

Even now, a while ago when he (Den) was asleep. Yuuki never acted because he felt it wasn't appropriate.

Also, he wanted Den to take the step himself.

Then, it would mean he trusted him.

Seriously, this was the first time in the longest time that he (Yuuki) desperately wanted someone to trust him.

This was crazy.

Placing his glass down, Den answered, "Oh that? Well, is never bad to be cautious"

Well, that was true. And this raises another topic, why was he hiding his face?

"You're also wearing a mask. I wonder why that is. Are you running from someone? Hiding from someone?" Den asked and watched as Yuuki took another sip before placing his glass down and looking up at him.

"I can ask you the same" was Yuuki's reply.

"I guess we all have something to hide," Den said, smiling.

True, Yuuki had something to hide. And from what Den just said, he did as well.

"By the way, make sure Mi doesn't find out about this. If she knows I drank, she'll have my head. I advise you, don't drink in her presence"

Mi......Was he talking about that young lady who was always with him? Come to think of it,........where was she?

Well, he'll keep what he said in mind........... And for some reason, here he was, thinking about the future.

Seriously, what the heck was wrong with him? Talking as if he'll join this stranger wherever he goes.

Then again,.........it wasn't like he hated the idea of it.

"I'm curious about something" Den spoke, gaining his attention.

"Did you follow me? I noticed you this evening, and you even joined me in the search” Hearing this,Yuuki was surprised.

He (Den) noticed.

"I see you noticed. I was wondering if you recognised me during our time in Live village"

He acted so cold. Yuuki had second thoughts at that moment.

Not to mention when they got to the shed, guess he was the only one thinking he didn't notice his presence.

"I'm sorry, I was not in......my right state of mind" Den said, regretful.

Now, as long as he knew. He almost died of heartache when he coldly pushed him away.

Ah!, what the heck was he thinking?!

Composing himself, Yuuki replied,

"Is okay" and Den looked up, smiling.

"I didn't think you'd come. But you did"

Well, he was expecting something when he told him of his next destination.

"Blame it on fate. I didn't follow you. I was wandering around” Yuuki replied, nervous, yet trying to look cool.

Heavens, what was he (Yuuki) saying?! This made him even more suspicious.

"Let's just say I believe you" Den said with a knowing smile, sipping his drink and Yuuki watched him.

Definitely, he did not believe him.

Placing his glass down, Den looked up and said, "And I guess you feel it too. Seeing you here, am guessing again, you have accepted it"

Surprised, Yuuki stared at him, while he (Den) only gave him a smile. Which his eyes revealed.

Sigh, he (Yuuki) sighed, "You're too open about it. And here I am, embarrassed to the core"

Not to talk about feeling happy to the core.

The guy he dreamt of non-stop was right in front of him.

He had a chance to meet him. Though he didn't know why, he was still happy.

So was he (Yuuki), this very moment.

"Well, you can choose to ignore it. Is just a feeling"

If he really knew about these feelings he wouldn't be saying this.

Yuuki didn't know if this was common but for him, it was pretty strong, intense, hard to resist and ignore.

However, he also felt.........

"I.....I feel, if is you, then is okay"

Taken back, Den took a few seconds to regain himself. And when he did, he met eyes with Yuuki, his eyes, expressing how happy he was to hear this, "Now, aren't I a lucky one" he said and Yuuki stared at those eyes of his, speechless.

So bright, so beautiful......... reminded him of.........he shook his head, no, it wasn't possible.

"Yu, you can call me Yu"

Yet, he revealed this name to him. One, only his pup was allowed to call him.

Seriously, what the heck was wrong with him?!

"Do you.......do you know the chief of Live village?" Den asked, changing the topic.

Huh? Why was he asking that?

Bewildered, Yuuki still answered anyway.

"Yes, he......was a friend of my master"

And he confirmed!

What the heck!

The chief mentioned the first guest was Yu. And then the second guest was Spider.

Yu, and this Yu! They were the same person!!

He was in Live village, right?

"And if am right, you visited him before, a few days before we met in the black market"

"Yes, how do you know?"

They were the same person!

God! He was so close! That day they visited the inn to ask about Jak, he was there!

No wonder, he felt so bad when he didn't take the opportunity to meet him.

If only he met him, then they would have met sooner!!

"I was in Live village during that time. There was a killer in the village and I was investigating"

"Oh, so close, yet........I didn't notice"

Uh?! What the heck was he saying?! What was he thinking?!

That was not important! A killer, a killer made his way to Live village and he didn't hear of this.

How come the old man didn't say anything when they met? He could have helped!

"Remember the guy who attacked us in the cave?

"In the black market," Den added, seeing the confused look in Yuuki's eyes.

"He was the culprit. Spider, well, we didn't know his name so we called him spider" he continued.

And it turns out his real name was Pike.

Still, Den preferred calling him Spider. He felt comfortable with that name.

And I still wonder why.

"And the young lady we met in Fall, she was talking about this spider, right?"

No hesitation, Den answered, "Yes. I killed him"

Come to think of it, what happened to the head? He wondered what they did to it.

While lost in his thoughts, Den had no idea Yuuki stared attentively at him.

He was puzzled and a bit amazed.

Surely, Den knew who he was to him. But still, they were strangers. Knew nothing about each other.

So how come he could share such information with no hesitation?

Not hiding anything.

As if, they've known each other for the longest time when they only just met.

"I'm curious, what were you doing in Live village, and the black market?"

Well,.......he could also share this, right?

Ah! Who cares!

And he threw caution out of the window.

Revealing everything.

"I.......I came to say goodbye to the chief"

Well, the chief didn't lie to him (Den) about this.

"I was planning on journeying around the world. But then, before I could do that, I heard someone important to me was going to put himself into danger"

Someone important to him? Someone important.........Who was that? Who was this person?!

Who?!.......and suddenly, realization hit him (Den) hard on the head.

Ah,........there it was again.

Crap,........he knew these feelings way too well, yet,......it was still so overwhelming!

Unbearable!

He had to compose himself.

"For my sake. I came to the black market to acquire what this important person wants. I didn't want him to put himself at risk"

Didn't want him to put himself at risk........ important person.

Was this person that important? So much that he was willing to endanger his life for what he wanted.

And he (Den) totally forgot Yuuki said this important person would endanger his life for his sake. Meaning, what this important person wanted was for him.

Den was pissed, his eyes showed it, and the inattentive Yuuki hadn't noticed yet.

"Afterwards, we kept meeting" and his (Den) mood took a certain degree turn.

Amused, Den smiled at his words.

He was still going on with that?

Well, if he didn't want to admit he was following him, that was okay. Cause he knew already.

"So, what now? I'm worried about Zil"

"You know Zil?" A surprised Den asked and then felt stupid right afterwards.

Of course he knew the kid. If he knew the father, then definitely, he knew the son.

"I do. But he doesn't know me"

So nice of him, he answered anyway.

"You....." Yuuki began and Den could see he was hesitating to say what was on his mind.

A little push will do no harm, right?

"Go on"

And he watched as Yuuki shook his head, saying, "Is nothing"

No, it wasn't nothing, but if he didn't want to share, that was okay.

"You asked about my plans"

Yuuki hummed as reply and he continued, "I don't know what's going on. But......I plan on getting to the end of it. I have a lot of people to protect. I have a promise to keep. From what's happening,......looks like someone desire war"

"Demon Island?"

"I don't know. For all we know, it could be someone portraying them. But then,.........the death flute,...... that's what killed the people in Live village, the manager said. And from what I know,...... only people in demon Island can use it"

And that's why he (Den) was so worried, so scared.

"At the moment, I have nothing else to do. Nowhere to be"

Getting his attention, Den looked up at Yuuki, smiling, "Are you saying I invite you on my quest and into my group?" He (Den) asked

"What do you think?"

"You're welcome" Den replied and they stared at each other, smiling.

Yuuki had no idea why he dreamt of this guy. Why did the dreams about him stop when he met him and decided to stay with him?

Why did they actually meet? Still,....... just for a while. Just for a while, until he loses, he'll keep him company.