บท 43: 43. Resilience Amidst Shadows and Whispers of Remembrance.
Omniscient POV
Saji Residence
In the quiet embrace of a traditional, somewhat weathered two-story building, a Japanese funeral ritual unfolded with the grace of somber tradition. The air was laden with the scent of incense, drifting between ancient wooden beams. Muted sunlight filtered through the papered shoji screens, casting a delicate glow on the gathered mourners dressed in respectful black attire. The room echoed with whispers and the soft rustle of silk as attendees paid their respects to the departed.
As the ceremony progressed, an air of suspense clung to the room, a poignant mix of grief and anticipation for what lay ahead. The rituals passed down through generations, unfolded like a carefully choreographed dance of tradition, embodying the delicate balance between life and death.
Now, as the traditional ceremony continued, Genshirou Saji's young heart bore the weight of grief and responsibility. In the midst of the mourning crowd, his small frame stood resilient, a determined spark in his eyes. He was no stranger to hardship, and despite the sorrow etched on his young face, an unwavering will to protect his siblings radiated from within.
Though still a child, he understood the gravity of the moment; his parents had really left them alone in this world. They died in a vehicular accident. But he could not break down in sorrow in front of his younger siblings. If he breaks down, who will be their shield?
Saji gazed at the flickering candles, the room filled with a solemn ambiance. As the priest chanted ancient verses, memories of laughter and warmth flooded his mind. His parents, now mere echoes in the corridor of time, left him with an emptiness he couldn't articulate.
"Stay strong, Saji. You're the man of the family now," whispered an elderly relative, a hand on Saji's shoulder, conveying both sympathy and a call to fortitude.
Saji's eyes locked onto the little Kaho and Gengo, his younger siblings who looked to him for reassurance. Amidst the palpable grief, a flicker of resolve ignited within him.
In the midst of the mourning crowd, Saji clutched the hands of the crying Kaho and Gengo, silently vowing to be the strength they needed. The weight of responsibility sat heavily on his small shoulders, but amidst the sorrow, he found the resilience to be the pillar his siblings could lean on.
As the ceremonial proceedings continued, Saji's grandfather, a figure of solace, approached them with open arms. "Come here, my dear ones," he said, embracing them with a warmth that transcended words. "I'll take care of you now."
The reassurance in his grandfather's embrace almost brought tears to Saji's eyes. However, in front of his grandparents, he still needed to stay strong. Grieving parents were hard for anyone to bear, especially grandparents witnessing the loss of their own child.
Yet, Saji held back his emotions, offering a silent promise to protect and provide for his siblings, a promise that echoed within the sacred space of the funeral ritual.
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Ryuga Tenjoin's POV
I've recently acquired information about Lavinia Reni, and there appears to be no evident connection to the Miyamuras. I don't know how Kouske-kun met Lavinia-san. But at least from my observations, she is a good child and doesn't seem to harbor any ill intentions toward him.
I also had the opportunity to meet the Azusawas, who are believed to be a family of youkais by the informants. Although I couldn't determine the specific type of youkais they are, my initial interaction with them suggested that they are friendly people. However, to gain a deeper understanding, further observation is necessary.
Kouske-kun's unnatural physical growth rate and his behavioral changes lead toward him coming in contact with the supernatural. I just hope he hasn't gotten into anything troublesome.
As I fixate on the image portraying two men immersed in cheerful laughter, a profound sense of nostalgia engulfs me. The delicate threads of sentiment tug at my emotions, and there's a subtle vulnerability in my eyes as if a few tears are poised to break free from their confines, reflecting the bittersweet beauty of the moment captured in that photograph.
"I apologize, Kaito. Regrettably, I couldn't prevent your son from delving into the supernatural, despite your aversion to such matters. At this moment, all I can offer is my sincere apology for falling short in my efforts."
As prominent figures in one of Japan's leading conglomerates, and possibly worldwide, we were aware of the supernatural world, engaging in frequent dealings with these enigmatic forces. Despite our awareness, Kaito held a distinct aversion to the egotistical and selfish nature of such entities.
Both our conglomerates, notably, had dealings with the Agares Devil Pillar House. Iselin, despite her cheerful demeanor, hailed from a supernatural background, shrouded in trauma that she never disclosed—leaving us to suspect a lineage of magicians.
Kaito's profound discomfort with the supernatural persisted, and he ardently wished to shield his family from entanglements with these forces. Regrettably, it appears I've faltered in upholding this desire, and the thought of facing him in the afterlife with this failure weighs heavily on my conscience, casting a somber shadow over my thoughts.
"What are you moping all alone in the darkness for, Ryuu-chan?" Sali suddenly startles me from behind.
"Nothing," I replied calmly.
"Don't think you can keep secrets from me. You were totally in a mopey mood just now, weren't you?" Sali quips, a cute pout playing on her face.
Keeping secrets from her was never an option; she had this uncanny ability to uncover everything. I'm genuinely grateful to have met her.
"Just reminiscing about the good old days. Kaito, Iselin, and us—always together. But human life is so fragile. A single accident snatched my lifelong friend away from me," I respond, a touch of nostalgia lingering in my words.
Sali suddenly pulls my head towards her and hugs me tightly to comfort me.
"Don't worry, Ryuu-chan. There's still so much ahead for us. Do you think Kaito and Iselin would want to see you like this?" Sali reassures though shadows of sadness linger on her face.
"A somber Ryuu-chan isn't cute at all~! I prefer your cool and composed side more~." Sali playfully remarks, her tone carrying a sultry note as affection sparkles in her eyes.
The atmosphere takes on a cozy and heated vibe. Our gazes lock, faces drawing closer...
Just as the moment intensifies, a knock on the door accompanied by Saki's voice interrupts us. Swiftly, we compose ourselves, attempting to regain a semblance of normalcy.
"What's going on, Saki-chan?" inquires Sali, her curiosity piqued, considering Saki's usual early bedtime.
Saki looked flustered and seemed to be hesitating to say something.
"Okaa-sama, Lavinia-san mentioned today that Kouske-san's birthday is on the 26th of October. I thought it would be nice to organize a grand celebration for him," Saki reveals after a moment.
Sali and I were pleasantly surprised to hear that. How could we forget about such a thing? I realize I need to pay more attention to that child. After all, children cherish celebrations, especially birthdays. In the absence of Kaito and Iselin, if we don't organize something for him, who else will?
"How could I have forgotten? We'll throw him one of the grandest parties ever, Saki-chan!" Sali responds with infectious enthusiasm.
"Nn. We'll organize a special one for him," I affirm.
As we delve into planning extravagant festivities, Kai intervenes, pointing out that given Kouske-kun's personality, he'd prefer a smaller, intimate gathering with close friends.
Reluctantly, we opt for a more modest celebration, yet I find solace in witnessing Saki forging a closer and supportive friendship with the child.
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