Shu's heart was racing. His cheeks were coloured a healthy pink as their horses trotted along the path. After leaving Hyoketsu they all camped outside the borders for a quick rest. All the soldiers who came to save him were singing, cheering and flocking around with him in pure joy. Shu had never known how much his kingdom loved him. He enjoyed their love. But his heart was still echoing the three words. They had loved each other silently, in their own ways and chose to confess at the most dire moment in their lives. As usual, they were plain ridiculous. Moeru was close. The sun was already setting from the west. The familiar outline of the city caught their eyes and soon they were in front of the massive gates bordering the kingdom. Shu inhaled sharply. He was home. After months he was finally home. The soldiers let out a cry of joy as the gates opened. Citizens were standing on each side, trying to get a look of him and the arriving crew.

Shu wondered what he might look like to them. All bruised and bandaged. Where there wasn't bandaged are coloured with dark bruises. It would take weeks to heal and months for the scars to fade. He could care less. He was home and he was alive. The citizens immediately cried out in joy. Shu spotted some shedding genuine tears of happiness. The whole kingdom was one big festival. Everywhere were flags, flowers and decorations. They had gotten ready for his arrival. A smile touched Shu's lips as his eyes scanned the crowd. Everyone is trying to get a look at him. His heart was swelling with the feelings of love and hope. Shu turned his attention back to the main plaza where she stood.

His mom stood among her courtiers. She looked as if she hadn't slept in days. Her usually bright face was lined with worry. Dark circles under her eyes shining with unshed tears. Shu jumped off of his horse and walked right into her open hand melting inside her warm embrace. She gripped onto him as if he was a dream that would fade away if she didn't hold on tightly. "My baby" She whispered, running a hand through his messy white hair that had gotten longer the past few weeks.

Shu pushed away with a smile and noticed his mother's eyes scanning his bruises and scars. "I'm fine, mom"

"He's not," His dad offered, walking to them. Shu juts out his bottom lip in annoyance. He made a surrender notion raising his brow. "I'm speaking the truth"

"No, you're not" Shu shot back, scowling. The queen looked between them and laughed softly. An instant smile touched his father's lips as he reached down to ruffle Shu's hair. The three of them were together again. After weeks of struggling, doubt and heartbreaks they were together as a family again. Shu was sent straight towards the medical rooms upon his arrival. Shu went through everything without much of a fight. His mind was too occupied to do anything else. His father had to leave for another war council. His mother was busy with the inner courtiers business. It was like the truth was finally sinking into his mind. There would be a war. And everyone was getting ready for it. Every single kingdom is sparking a cold war. Shu wasn't sure when they would all be taken out by the fires. Shu kept looking around after he left the medical rooms. He kept expecting to see him after arriving in Moeru but there was no trace of his cousin. His thoughts were broken by a deafening call. Shu instinctively turned to meet with a crushing hug from his best friend which sent both flying to the ground. Shu let out a surprised laugh. Valt pushed away, "You're back! I tried to go with King Kurenai but he said to stay behind and help father to organize the war. I've been dreading the whole night and I didn't even have any appetite. I was so scared! I was so worried"

Shu put his hands up, "Whoa, Valt, slow down. I'm sorry I worried you. But I'm here, alive and well"

Valt gave his wounds a skeptical look, Shu groaned, "At least I'm alive"

The shorter male grinned, standing up. He offered his hand to his best friend pulling him up from the ground. The worries which weighed him down the past few weeks finally left his heart. After arriving at his kingdom, he made his way to Moeru as fast as he could. He volunteered himself countless times to help Shu but they needed a plan before going on a suicide mission for Hyoketsu. Now that the war is officially back, it was even harder to cross the borders but right now, seeing his best friend standing in front of him. Valt knew he could take any challenge. "You kept the promise" Valt smiled, "Thank you"

Shu smiled back, clasping his hands behind his back. "Right. Thank you for trusting me"

Valt nudged him with his elbow, "I'm your best friend, I'll always trust you."

"Right" Shu started walking, Valt skipped a few steps and walked beside him. "So, how's everything? I'm guessing your kingdom is going to help our side. War preparations and all?"

Valt nodded, a frown catching his lips. "Yeah. Everything's gotten busy around my kingdom too. My mom is frantic, she doesn't like the war in the least but it's not like we have much of a choice. The troops are having drills all the time. Toko and Nika are scared. It's just too sudden."

"Yeah" Shu said, thinking of Yuki who died. "Yuki already lost her life. I don't know how many people will end up dying." Even Mitsuba did.

"What happened-" Valt tensed, "With Lui I mean"

Shu exhaled softly, "He- he actually helped me Valt."

Valt whipped his head to meet Shu's eyes. "Huh?"

"Yeah. He saved my life more than three times. I wouldn't have made it if it weren't for him. I know it's weird after his sister gets killed by Moeru and all. But we kind of discovered things and one thing led to another."

Valt turned his gaze to the ground and stopped, "Say Shu. Who killed Yuki? If it isn't Moeru, which is obvious, who did it?"

Shu shrugged, "That's the question even I don't have answers for."

Valt reached his shoulder and gave him a comforting squeeze. "I'll have to get going now. It's getting late. I'd be staying over today and leave as the first thing tomorrow. There's a lot to do back at mine. I'm glad you're okay bud. But don't do reckless things. Let the wounds heal"

Shu nodded, "Right. Thank you by the way. For everything."

Valt gave him his signature grin and waved. Shu walked to his own room without another thought. The day has been exhausted and he could use a break before digging into things tomorrow. There should be a way to stop the war. There were doubts inside his mind that needed to be cleared.

                                                                                              ---

The next day, after breakfast, Shu left for the gardens. He still hadn't seen Itsuki anywhere which was odd considering he'd be the first one who would come rushing to him whenever he's in trouble. Did something happen? Shu thought, in a moment of horror but quickly dismissed the thought. Itsuki was stronger than him in every aspect. He stopped by the pond where fishes swam around in the clear water. The lotus flowers were in full blood, pink and white mixing together. That's when the albino heard the rustle of the trees and the sound of someone dropping to the ground behind him. Shu turned to meet a pair of crimson eyes, identical to his own but more alive and mischievous. Long black locks tied back into a ponytail with a red ribbon identical to the blood red robes he was wearing. Itsuki grinned, "Looking for someone, little brother?"

Shu blinked, "Were you stalking me?"

Itsuki gave him an offended look, huffing loudly, "No 'Nii san I missed you?'"

Shu rolled his eyes, "Yeah, right"

Itsuki cracked a smile and opened his arms pulling Shu to an embrace. The albino sighed, dropping his chin to Itsuki's shoulder. "Damn it" Itsuki spoke, running a hand through his hair. "You scared the hell out of me. I was so worried."

Shu hummed to his robe, taking in the familiar smell of his brother. Even though they were just cousins, Itsuki never let him feel different. He was always his little brother and Itsuki was always Shu's big brother. "What happened there, Shu?"

Shu pulled away from him, averting his gaze to the pond. When they were young, the two of them used to come here everyday to feed the fish until his aunt put a stop to it, keeping Itsuki as far away from him as possible. "Nothing."

Itsuki raised his brow, gesturing at the bandages and the bruises. "Don't lie to me."

Shu ducked his head, "I'm serious. It's just the normal routine of Hyoketsu, right?" Shu didn't want to go into detail or tell anything about Lui. Not yet. He had to find the proof first. The albino raised his eyes to Itsuki's. "I'm alive. That's what matters"

"Bullshit" The older male growled, "As if they can just drag a prince out of a school and torture him without any evidence. That's plain ridiculous. I'm going to rip those bastards apart"

Itsuki had always been vulgar in his language where Shu was always reversed. He sounded a lot like Lui in that way. "Say Itsuki, do you think I'd be allowed in the warzone?" That was a lingering question inside Shu's mind. All his life he was trapped inside his room. He had never seen a war. Never had any first hand experience.

Itsuki placed a hand on his head, ruffling his hair in a thoughtful manner. "I heard how you fought in the school tournament. Uncle was impressed by your skill. So, maybe"

"Do you want me on the battlefield?" Shu asked. "Would I end up being a burden?"

Itsuki clicked his tongue, "Are you kidding me? Of course we'd need you on the battlefield. Shu, you're a fire holder and strong. You know your game. And damn that brain of yours. We need a strategist like you on our side if we want the win."

"It's going to be hard," Shu wondered aloud and Itsuki grimaced.

"Mom, right?"

Shu nodded, giving him a sympathetic smile. "Don't worry. I'll figure out a way."

"That's my little brother" He cheered.

"Anyway, Itsuki, There's something I need to ask you," Shu said carefully, choosing his words.

"Yeah?"

"How did the war start in the first place? I've heard several versions but no one would tell me the exact reason." Shu sighed. He asked both his parents only to end up with different versions of a complicated backstory that didn't even match. He stopped asking at some point because they wore this painful expression each time he questioned.

Itsuki exhaled deeply. Shu turned to him to see the same pained expression. The albino bit his tongue, instantly regretting the question. "It started when you were only two, Shu. Do you remember how you got that scar on your face?"

Shu's fingertips brushed against the rough skin over his right eye. "No, it had just always been there. Dad told me it was Hyoketsu who did this."

"Kind of," Itsuki agreed, walking to the bench under the large flamboyant tree. Shu took a seat beside him. The raven haired male stared into the space for a while, "It started with the death of my father. Do you remember him?"

Shu shook his head, "I-I don't. I've always told he died in war. The only thing I've seen is the painting in the family room. He looks a lot like you"

A ghostly smile decorated his lips as Shu hummed, "Yeah. My dad died before the war Shu. But since that's like the start of the war, everyone is going on with him dead in the war statement. I just realized this is the first time we're talking about him."

"Yeah. I was too worried to ask you. Whenever I asked my parents they just dismissed me without telling me and auntie was a no go. She'd strangle me."

Itsuki snorted, "It was a full moon. I remember I was fussing around with you till night. You were so small. Like of course you were only two. You would giggle and fuss around. Dad loved you." He sighed, "He adored you. After you were born, he didn't leave your room for a full day. One time he ditched a meeting because you had fallen asleep on his lap and he didn't want to wake you up."

Shu looked at the pond where a koi fish had come into view, swirling around the still waters, flashing it's bright colours in the morning sun. "I wish I could remember more of him."

Itsuki wrapped one of his arms around Shu's shoulder, "Anyway, after you fell asleep, I got up and walked out of the room as I usually do. Then as any other day I went to sleep. Then I think it was around midnight, you screamed. My room was the closest to you and I was terrified." Itsuki shuddered. Shu looked at him, "I was terrified Shu. I just threw off the covers and ran to your room and-" Itsuki stopped, closing his eyes as if the memory was still haunting him. "There were four men in your room. All dressed black, faces covered with masks shaped like foxes. And one of them was pinning you to the bed and he was fucking dragging a hot iron poker over your eye" A tear slipped down his closed eye.

Shu blinked, running a hand through his scar. A part of him was thankful he had no memory of that and another part of him wondering what it would've felt like. He has had the experience of being burned back at Hyoketsu, and he couldn't imagine what it would've been like when he was only two. "It's okay if you don't want to continue." Shu said quickly, sensing the other's distress.

"Might as well finish what I started" Itsuki said, rubbing his face on his shoulder. "I called out for help and the guards were already there with my uncle and aunt. We were all frantic. Uncle slashed three right at the spot. I've never seen him furious and that was the first time I saw my aunt fighting. She killed the man who was hurting you. Your mother looked like she could rip out his organs and feel no remorse for the man. You were bawling. Even my mom was there, concerned. The soldiers were all guarding the room and the medics were rushing in and out. There was a lot of blood, many thought you'd lose the sight of that eye. Everything was happening so fast and it's only hours later we realized that one person was missing, my dad. The person who loved you the most was not in the room."

Shu braced himself, getting ready to hear the worst part. "After you've calmed down, we all searched through the palace. And I stumbled into our family room. The one where all the paintings are at. He was there. On the ground. An arrow sticking out of him and-" He inhaled deeply, "He was staring at nothing. I knew he was dead before I even checked the pulse. The attack on you was just a distraction, they wanted to kill my father."

"No wonder why aunt hates me. I've given her two reasons." Shu blurted out.

Itsuki smiled sympathetically, "I don't blame you for either of them Shu. She needs to understand that none of that is your fault."

Shu gave him a small smile. But his mind was working, putting the pieces of the puzzles to the right places. His uncle was killed by an arrow years ago which started the war. Yuki was killed by an arrow which ruined the peace. "The arrow, it was from Hyoketsu?"

"Yes" Itsuki gritted his teeth. "They almost made you blind and then killed my father."

Shu frowned, "Wait, I was two when the illness started."

Itsuki nodded, "Yes. First, we thought it was a side effect from the trauma. They even said it was a curse. There was a prediction that you would be fine around age eleven. But that didn't happen."

"The arrow, I don't think they threw it away. Right?"

Itsuki gave him a bemused look, "Why are you digging up all this, Shu? I'm pretty sure your big brain is working over something. Mind telling me?"

Shu dipped his head sheepishly. "There are some things I need to confirm first. I promise I'll tell you when I figure it out."

"What are you doing here, Itsuki?" A voice echoed, breaking their conversation. Instantly, both of them were at their feet. Shu's aunt made her way towards them. Her eyes firmly planted on Shu. Hate and disgust. That was all evident in her gaze.

"I came to see Shu, mom," Itsuki answered coolly.

"You're supposed to be training. You have no time to waste with him." She scolded.

"But mom, he just came home after months! What are you even going at? I practice all the time." Itsuki looked tired.

"Leave, now" She said with a note of finality. Itsuki gave him an apologetic look before storming out of the garden. She had always controlled both of them like puppets. It was hard to get away from her grasp when you're bounded by blood. "You're already a disappointment, don't turn him into one too" Shu winced at her words. He should be used to the insults by now. If he told his parents, they would stop her but Shu didn't spill a word about anything. He felt like he deserved her anger and after hearing Itsuki talking about what happened years ago, Shu felt he really did deserve it.

"I'm sorry," Shu said quietly.

She clicked her tongue. "You do realize that you have failed as a prince, Shu. If you are a member of the royal family, you could've saved yourself from that hated kingdom. But no, you waited till your father dearest saved you like his little princess. Be ashamed. Be very ashamed. I'm worried about this kingdom at your hands." She shook her head, "There's no use in speaking. I have better matters at hand" She strides away from him. His aunt was one of the infamous warriors in the kingdoms. Her martial art style, and her quick witty techniques were hard to follow and impossible to predict. And of course, humiliating him using all her skills was a part of her routine.

Shu fell back into the bench and stared at the sky through the leaves of the tree. He reminded himself of Lui and the respect the whole kingdom had for him. He was glowing with royalty. One look and anyone could tell he was a prince. What about him? The kingdom loved him. Many people adored him, some hated him. But for what? What did he ever do to win that attention? Being born in the royal family? He never fought in a war. Never brought any glory to the country like Itsuki had done. Shu sat up, tightening his ponytail. He didn't have time to feel sorry for himself. He had better matters at hand.

The library was empty except for several scholars lurking among the bookshelves. Shu dodged their gazes and went through the records of twelve years ago. There was not much to make of them. All of them were war records, number of deaths and a full report about the incident that happened with his uncle and him. Shu grabbed the bulky record and walked to one of the corner tables where he wouldn't be easily spotted by anyone entering the room. He opened the records, the pages were dusty from not being opened for long. Shu made his way through the ones he needed and they matched Itsuki's story. The cause of death was an arrow to the heart. It was not poisoned, but the impact of the arrow was enough to cause major blood loss which eventually ended up with his uncle's death. Shu's breath hitched as he read his own tragedy. The hot iron poker and the complicated medical treatments he had to go through afterwards. After that he stood up and placed the records back in their places.

He walked to the flame court where the prisoners were kept and all the war monuments and prizes were hidden in a massive room that imitated the ice palace back in Hyoketsu. Shu found all the clues he needed. The arrow was still there, safely kept inside a wooden box, charmed to keep the arrow safe and sound. The syllables to Hyoketsu were spelled wrong. Just like the arrow that killed Yuki. Shu frowned, a feeling of dread settled inside his stomach. It was almost as if the ones who placed the clues wanted them to be found. Why did it in both the arrows? Why not make it in one to make it look like a coincidence? The more clues he finds, the more tangled the series of incidents becomes.

He had only one other way to find the truth. Shu grimaced, not sure whether he wanted to follow the method, but better give it a shot than discarding the thought without trying. He walked to the throne room, where his father was holding a war meeting. Without him. Shu should've gotten used to it by now. But every time when he finds out that everyone is keeping him away from the state matters, it stings. He wanted to meddle in, help them but in the end it all comes down to the general review all the others hold about him. The king looked surprised upon his arrival but he didn't reject his request to go visit his grandfather. Shu felt himself being strangely formal. His tone was icy cold. He felt Itsuki's worried gaze as he stormed out of the throne room without letting anyone say another word. He didn't care. He shouldn't care. But he did.

He was glad to come out of the castle. After handing out the crown for his father, the former king (hig grandfather) moved to a different palace (which is mostly a temple). He knew his grandfather would be itching to meet him. He doesn't usually come out of the temple because of his old age and frail body. The temple was on top of a hill and there were a set of long stairs to reach it. When he grew older, grandfather found it harder to come down without having a stroke from exhaustion. Shu reached the bottom of the stone stairs. He took a deep breath, this was going to be a ride.

He was halfway up the stairs when the bird suddenly perched on his shoulder. Shu blinked, stopping dead on the stairs. The sunlight was harsh on his skin but he didn't mind in the least. He was used to the heat in Moeru like Lui was used to the cold in Hyoketsu. It was not everyday birds randomly fly down from nowhere and perch on your shoulder. Shu looked around to spot no one around. He frowned when he noticed the rolled paper tied onto the leg of the animal. He froze, his mind instantly crossing to one person. Lui.

He hurriedly untied the letter and shoved it inside his pocket. The bird flew away taking the signal and Shu wondered whether he would ever see it again. He skipped several steps at a time, arriving at the temple. The wooden buildings, elevated slightly off the ground. The red tiles of the roofs shone in a blinding copper exposed to the sunlight. He wandered around the sandy compound and spotted several servants. They bowed in his direction before hurrying away into the kitchen. The temple was surrounded by a thick line of trees, the leaves merging together shading the outer buildings of the temple. Shu walked straight into it, knowing at this time of the day everyone should be at the main shrine, meditating. The forest was quiet, except for the chirping of the birds and the occasional sound of other wild animals. Shu walked further away, making sure he was out of sight of the temple. He seated himself behind a tree and leaned against the trunk unfolding the white paper. It was Lui's handwriting, Shu instantly noticed, running a fingertip over the black ink. He looked around for one last time before starting to read.

Dear Snowflake,

I'm usually not the one to write letters and do that sappy shit. But we don't have any other ways of communication. So, I will bear with it for a while. The bird that brought you the letter is a charmed bird. Aki told me no one except for us would be able to see the bird and she attached the bird to only two of us. The letters are safe, don't worry. I hope you arrived at Moeru safely. We literally chose the most ridiculous time for a confession, didn't we? Well, worth it, I guess.

I'm mainly writing this to inform you about the developments from this side. Aki and I are not even close to finding a lead to Yuki's killer. It's all messed up. And I don't have enough time to look anyway. Zac, Orochi and several others are here. We're all training and organizing platoons everyday. As far as I know they wouldn't meet Moeru head on at least until next year. There's a lot to be done and when this war finally starts, I'm not even sure how long this will drag on. Dorien is the only kingdom that's going to survive in the end. Dang it, that Freak De La Hoya got it easy.

Anyway, Snowflake, I was wondering how it's going on yours? Are you doing fine? I'm pretty sure your parents must be fussing over your health and all. If only they knew how annoyingly strong you can be. It's weird to think we'd meet again on a battlefield and it would be months after. I miss your stupid, pretty face. Take care of yourself. Don't go around doing reckless things. You have to be here to battle and I'm pretty sure we can find a way to stop this. You always hated wars after all.

That's about it. I'm just going to stop here now. Write to me when you're free. And seriously, not kidding, take care. I know things would get rough but stay strong. I know you're the only person who can stop this. You got the brains, love. Totally not sarcastic about that. Just destroy this letter after reading. It's for the best.

I love you.

Lui.

Shu stared blankly at the letter for a few moments. A small fire flicked on his fingertips as he lit up the paper and watched it go up in flames, replacing it with a pile of ash. A flash of memory passed him through. One after another, the memories of him and Lui. To think they had come this far after meeting each other like fated enemies. Surely, there's only a thin line between love and hate. The albino stood up and walked out of the woods only to find his grandfather in the compound, sweeping the stray leaves scattered across it. "Grandfather?" Shu talked, trying to get his attention. After all these months, he had not changed much.

He turned, "Shu? When did you arrive here?"

"Just a few minutes ago" Shu walked to his side with a small smile. "Everyone was meditating when I arrive, I figured I'd better not bother any of you"

He smiled. His wrinkled face and kind eyes still held the same love Shu had experienced for years. Grandfather was different from the others. While others protected him, he snuck in here to train with grandfather. His smooth archery skills and the skill with the axe were all thanks to him. He had always believed in his potential. "Good to see you back." His eyes slid across his wounds without a comment. His eyes settled back on his face, "Something is bothering you, little one"

Shu ducked his head with a smile, "Kind of, yeah. I came here to ask for something."

"Of course. I'm all ears"

"I want to remember something, grandfather. Something that happened twelve years ago. I thought you could help me" Shu glanced at the main shrine. He was no newbie to the deep spiritual energy this place held. Memory awakening was one of the techniques practiced by the priests for centuries and he knew that many young priests in the temple had mastered the technique. Shu knew the memories came with a price. Most of the memories are blocked out by the mind and when you grow up, the earlier memories slowly fade away. It was possible to reawaken them but this particular memory would be harder to remember and worse to survive.

His grandfather frowned, his lips pulling down to a frown. "Shu? Are you trying to remember the attack, perhaps"

"I am"

"Why?"

Shu looked away from him. His eyes resting idly on the wooden corridors. Young priests dressed in white walking calmly across the gardens, not making a sound. They looked calm and collected. "I found some things." He said, being vague about everything. "I just need a lead and I have a feeling that all the answers would be in that memory. I need to find them."

"You never hid anything from me before" Grandfather continued to sweep the sand, making different arts on the soft material with each sweep.

"I think I can find a way to stop the war," Shu confessed. His statement was bold and impossible. But Shu had faith and hope. Grandfather looked genuinely surprised at his statement.

"And what are you doing with that memory?"

"It's a clue. At least, I think it is. Please, grandfather. Just help me this time."

He stopped sweeping and wondered for a while. His brows creased with worry but eventually, he agreed to him. "Okay, but you know the price"

Shu nodded eagerly, "I know. I'll deal with everything by myself. Don't worry."

Grandfather sighed deeply before leading him into an inner room of the temple. It was clear except for two cushions and a white futon lying on the floor. Shu looked around the small square room while his Grandfather walked outside, bringing in a young guy with him. His blue hair tied back into a ponytail. His vibrant green eyes looked at him from top to bottom, almost as if he was judging him. "Ibuki Ukyo, my lord" He said, bowing politely.

"Just Shu is fine" Came the instant reply from the albino. The male looked around his age but was taller.

"Pleasure to meet you." Someone spoke against his ear. That's when Shu noticed Ukyo was not by Grandfather's side but by his side, specifically behind him, talking against his ear. When did he even move? Shu stepped back, turning around in surprise. "They called me Shadow Walker back home"

"Back home?" Shu looked at him uncertainly, unable to make anything out of the conversation.

"I'm originally from Chikara"

"Oh, Xander's kingdom" Shu blurted out without hesitance.

Ukyo smiled, "Yeah, he's a close friend of mine"

Shu just nodded, returning the smile. Grandfather looked in between them. "I'll wait outside. If you need something Ukyo, feel free to ask me"

"Of course, your highness," Ukyo said, giving him a curt bow. Shu watched as his grandfather exited the room leaving him with the boy. Ukyo gestured towards the futon and Shu knew what to do. He had already taken off his boots before arriving into the room. He set his bare feet onto the soft material of the futon and lied down. Ukyo pulled out a wooden box which consisted of thin needles in different lengths. Shu closed his eyes. If it was a memory when he was around eight or nine, they wouldn't need anything else rather than a clear mind and a quiet space. They did it at school back when they visited the circus owned by Kurt. But Shu was trying to reawaken a memory when he was two. When he was still a child and possibly the most traumatic event in his life.

The make slightly winced as Ukyo entered one of the needles to the skin just above his forearm. He was accurate in his work and quick. When he finished, Shu let out a breath he didn't know he was holding. "Ready?" Ukyo pushed the kit away and placed his hands on each side of Shu's temples.

Shu nodded, "Yes"

"Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Push all the thoughts away and imagine the memory you want to awaken. Imagine yourself going back in time. Keep calm."

Shu felt himself getting carried away. His heart was racing, under his closed eyelids, he could make out silhouettes and weird shapes. After several minutes, there he was, staring straight right at a smaller version of himself. Shu looked down at his own body, which seemed to be nothing but a spirit. Smoky and white. A shiver ran down his spine. He was about to face one of the most secretive events he ever faced in his whole life. Shu jolted when he heard footsteps. The door to his room cracked open. First, just by an inch. Then four ment shuffled inside the room. Shu turned his gaze towards his own sleeping figure on the bed. Barely visible through the heavy white blanket. Vulnerable to all types of attacks around him. Shu didn't move, just watched in determination, focusing his mind only on the memory.

"This is the kid?" One of the voices asked.

"Yes, he's the one. We need to implant it on him. Get onto work, we need to distract the rest of the castles. That man knows too much"

Shu frowned, that man? Implant? What are they talking about?

One of the men stepped into his bed while another stepped closer from the opposite side. Shu looked at his smaller version turning to his side, crimson eyes slowly opening, "M-mom?" Shu almost winced at how small he sounded. He watched as the little one sat down, rubbing the back of his hands over his eyes, looking around in confusion. A slight tilt of his head, and one of the men grabbed hold on his hands, pressing him against the bed. Shu looked as his eyes widened in fear. Whole body froze in the moment of realization. He whimpered, trying to break the grasp. Tiny hands and legs thrashing the air. The man nodded at the other. Shu held his breath as the man pulled out a long iron stick, it's end glowing red. He was pretty sure it was not fire, something else. Something that didn't burn them but hurt him.

For a moment, Shu thought he had seen enough. But then he willed himself to stay. He needed answers, that's why he did this in the first place. He watched as the man dragged the iron stick over his eyes, screams broke the still silence and echoed inside the room. That's when Shu's own scar started glowing red, pain blazing through his eyes like someone was digging the eyeball out. He wheezed, falling to his knees, almost missed the conversation going on between the two.

"It's the elder Kurenai right? I heard he had found valuable information about us. He had spies all around but one ran away before we could end his life. He died after arriving, but not before spilling everything to that Kurenai. Our highness wants him dead before he can speak."

That's it, Shu thought numbly, clutching his eye, Speak, who are you?

"We're blaming it on Hyoketsu." The man snorted, "I mean, they don't even know the Dark Continent exists anymore. It's all deserted they say, no one knows the life inside that continent"

"It's for the best" The other man replied, "We need more time to go on with the plan"

Their conversation was interrupted by Itsuki, who screamed for help. Soon, everything stopped around him. He was standing amidst a black void. The pain was shooting through his whole body, sending tremors down his spine. Shu looked around, helpless as voices started to fill his head. Different types of voices. Young, old, female, male. Everything clashed together, sending waves of words into his mind. Shu tried to disentangle them, and realized they were chanting. All the voices chanting one single word: Demon.

Shu jolted to a sitting position on the futon. Clutching his eyes from one of his hands while the other was curled on his robes over his chest. He wheezed, trying to push away the voices inside his mind. He felt someone bringing a flask to his lips. The familiar bitter taste spread through his mouth as he drank the medicine. It was only then the world came to focus. The throbbing of his eyes and the pain of his chest slowly fading allowing him a little breathing space. Shu planted his palms on the futon taking a deep breath. "Prince Shu?" Ukyo's concerned voice caught his ears, making the male turn his head.

"I'm fine" Shu gave him a reassuring smile. His grandfather pressed a hand against his cheek with a worried look over his face. Shu didn't even realize when he came into the room at all.

"You can stay here for today and leave tomorrow"

Shu shook his head, he finally found a lead. He needed to follow it. "I have to go."

A faint smile painted Grandfather's lips. "You found what you want?"

Shu nodded enthusiastically, not caring about the slight throbbing on his chest. "Yeah. I did."

"Okay. Take care."

Shu stood up, a little wobbly at first but soon recovered. He gave his grandfather a quick hug and thanked Ukyo, walking out of the shrine in hurried steps. Dark Continent, he thought. There were stories about the place. Legends, myths, ancient beliefs. There was no clue that it was a true place. Even though Shu had heard numerous people visiting the place, they never returned. The ones who returned were too scared to talk about the place. Their conclusion was that the continent was a desert with no soul that it could drive people mad out of pure loneliness. What did uncle know about it? What did he find out? He had heard lots of stories about his uncle, but one thing for sure. He always kept all his journeys recorded. If he somehow stumbled upon the Dark Continent, he had it written. Somewhere inside his study which was kept close after his death. No one was allowed inside but Shu thought he could manage breaking some rules to find clues. He needed to find the records. If he did, there would be a way to stop the war.

Sometimes, it was good when no one paid any special attention to you. When Shu passed soldiers and generals by the hallway, no one paid any attention to him other than to bow him out of courtesy. Shu replied to them with a curt nod. The hallway where his uncle's study was empty as usual. This part of the castle was always empty. The door was locked with flame magic and Shu easily opened it and slipped inside. He heard the doors closing back behind him. It was his first time in the room. All the tables in the room were stacked with books and papers binded together. The three shelves were filled with more. A layer of dust covering each of them. Shu sneezed. The room was dark. Shu lit one of the ancient looking candles on the candleholders. He blinked, looking around. "There are so many. This is hopeless."

He went to the nearest table, and looked through the books. They were all about war strategies. He walked to the book shelfs and almost smiled seeing the children's story books stacked on one of them. He carefully picked out a light blue leather bound book and flipper to the first page. A painting fell to the ground, a drawing of a child, probably Itsuki.

Love you, Dad! Happy Birthday!

Shu put the book back on the shelf, dusting off the dust from his hands. He couldn't let himself distract- footsteps. Shu whirled around, blowing off the candle. He hurriedly looked around, looking for a place to hide and out of panic, slipped into the space between the wall and the bookshelf. The footsteps grew louder and finally, through the books Shu could make out the form of his aunt. She swayed around the room, looking through everything with a nostalgic look on her face. Shu averted his gaze. Nostalgia and sorrow was a foreign look on his aunt's face. After a while, she picked up several books from the table and walked out without another look. It was almost like she was running away. Running away from the loss of her husband, and her love.

Shu stayed still for a few minutes until the sound of footsteps faded away. He let out a breath, about to come out from his hiding place when something hit his foot. Shu frowned, bending to take a better look. Under the shelf, lost among the dust, were four leather bound books. Shu pulled each one out carefully and laid them out on the floor. Four black leather bound books with no titles. All of them covered with dust and bigger than any novel he had ever read. Shu sneezed again, his eyes watering as he blew onto the book, sending a mist of dust flying out of the book. He placed it on his lap and carefully opened the cover. There it was, in big black lettering, Dark Continent Secrets (Part 3).

There were four parts to the whole record of his journey. Looking at the sizes of the books, Shu was pretty sure it must've taken his Uncle over an year to sort through everything and write this down. He might've wanted to tell his dad when he sorted everything out. Shu flipped to the last page of the Part 4 book and as he guessed, the last blank pages told him Uncle hadn't been able to finish the book. He died before that. No, that man from the Dark Continent made sure he died before that. He took all the four books and slipped out of the room. Looking around, he made sure no one was in the hallway to spot him. Shu closed and locked the door to his room and seated himself on the windowsill. The books on his table. He took a paper and an ink pad with a brush. The bird had somehow returned to him during his journey and now stood near him as he wrote his letter. There was a lot to do. He was only starting. 

---

Lui's life has fallen into a routine. He was the crown prince of Hyoketsu and he had more responsibility than his friends. Everyday they trained from morning to night, only taking breaks when it's needed the most. There were strategies to make, platoons to organize, and rations to collect to use during the war. When the bird returned, Lui was not even expecting it. He didn't think Shu would be able to reply to him. He looked around, making sure he was out of anyone's vision before opening the letter. The familiar neat letters lined up the paper. Shu's face flashed across his mind, he could almost hear his words through the letter.

Dear Lui,

I got your letter. I'm glad you're doing fine and honestly, I'm grateful to all the things you did for me during the time I was there in Hyoketsu. Funny, I always wanted to visit Hyoketsu but not like that, I guess. All that aside, you're right, my parents won't let me go near a training area. This will continue until my wounds are healed I guess. It's weird though. I'm the crown prince of Moeru but I feel like I'm not worthy enough for the title. They're not even letting me in the war councils.

And stop calling people weird names. Free has a name, you know? We should be happy that at least one of us will survive it. Speaking of war, I guess I won't mind staying inside my room for a few weeks. I found a lead. I'm digging through it to find more detail. Guess the history of war starts with my uncle's death. You know the weird thing? He was killed with an arrow, a Hyoketsu one but the lettering is wrong. Deja vu? Yeah, right. I went through some stuff and finally found what I wanted. I think the culprit for Yuki's death too. I won't tell you much detail because I'm still working on the information. Maybe later.

You're right. I'm not going to give up on attending the war. The next time we'll meet, it's surely gonna be the battlefield, Lui. I miss you. A little more than I should, I think. I have to go now. I'll wind up the letter. Take care of yourself. I love you!

From Shu. 

Lui destroyed the letter the second he finished reading. Shu's voice lingered in his ears and his words warmed his heart. It would be months till they would be able to meet again. Till then, the letters will connect them. That's the least he could do. 

---

Dear Snowflake,

Trust me, I'm so fucking tired. No, don't start lecturing about language because that comes with exhaustion. Kind of like a side effect I guess. Shinki and Katana (They're acquaintances, not friends) are driving me nuts using their wild theories and weird strategies. Thank the lords Gou is here or else there's a murder happening soon enough. I dreamed of you yesterday. Yeah, I know, weird, right? I don't remember the dream and I hope it's not vulgar. I can almost imagine you blushing while reading this. I promise it's not like that. I think it's a side effect of love. It's a weird thing now that I'm experiencing it first hand, it got even weirder. I love you, Snowflake.

Lui. 

---

Dear Lui,

KEEP ME OUT OF YOUR WILD DREAMS, YOU PERVERT. Honestly, what do you gain from flustering me like this? We're at two different kingdoms, just keep your vulgar thoughts to yourself. And of course, you still call your friends acquaintances? Lame. I thought Prince Lui was better than that. Who am I to you now? A super close acquaintance? Anyway, don't overwork yourself idiot. Learn to take a break when you're training. And sadly, I still didn't get the chance to start training. I'm reading some records about this place called Dark Continent. You wouldn't believe the things they have, Lui. If the Dark Continent is behind all this, we'd have to stop them before they conquer us all. I'm probably not making much sense right now. Sorry. I'll stop this letter now. I love you and miss you.

Shu.

--- 

Dear Snowflake,

Dark Continent? That legend? Why are you going behind that? Don't tell me all that shit is real. I'll be waiting to hear more in the next letter. And you, you're not a super close acquaintance, you're the love of my life. Well, I guess that's going too far considering the fact that we haven't even kissed. Tell them to suck it up and let you train. Honestly, they're just wasting good potential trying to imprison you in those comfy blankets and beds. I know you'll stand up for yourself. Don't you forget I'm cheering you on with everything, Snowflake. Okay, aside all that, I went to visit Yuki's grave today. It's like yesterday the two of us were playing with snow. Talking about snow, we had a snowfall yesterday. A surprise one, I guess. It happens here, from time to time. Reminds me of you with all the snowflakes around me. I miss you. Take care. I love you.

Lui. 

---

Dear Lui,

They finally let me train today! I had a long talk with my parents and I told them I'm capable of things too. Like, they need to stop treating me like I'm five years old. My cousin Itsuki helped me with that. I attended my first war council, things were pretty tough. You should've seen their faces when I planned a whole strategy for them. I think everyone is finally accepting me as an equal. It's a fine feeling. I'm reading through my uncle's record. The ones he was writing before he was killed. I actually kind of stole them, but that aside, there's lots of information about the dark continent. He had seen them. And yes Lui, it's a true place. Everything in there is true and alive and according to the records, even Uncle did not know about the rulers. But every person he met there was terrified of these rulers. I'm curious now. What are they trying to achieve by making us enemies?

Also, don't just call me love of your life. You don't even know it. Maybe you'll get over me before we meet at the battlefield. It's just uncertain, you know? Love is a feeling after all, it can change I guess. But it's hard to keep you out of my mind. I wish I could see you. I miss you, Lui. I guess that's it, take care, love.

Shu. 

---

Dear Snowflake,

That's my Snowflake, tell them what you're capable of. Are you kidding me? I'm not going to get over you. You still owe me that kiss and probably your virginity. Okay, that was unnecessary but I love to fluster you. Didn't know you were capable of stealing things. I'm a bad influence. Don't regret a thing though. About the Dark Continent. I'm not sure what you're finding out there. But Snowflake, be careful. We should stop writing about them in our letters. If they were capable of killing your uncle and probably Yuki, they won't hesitate to kill you if they find out you're digging up their information. Let's just stay quiet about it. I trust you, It's more than enough.

Don't overwork yourself. When I overwork, I instantly stop myself now. I'd have to be at my best when I meet you next time. I bet you'd get prettier next time we meet. Don't give me a heart attack though. You're too beautiful already. And yes, I miss you too. So much. I love you Snowflake. Not going to get over you calling me love.

Lui.

---

Dear Lui,

First things first, stop writing about those weird fantasies of yours Shirosagi! Really? Virginity? And for the record, I am not blushing, pervert. Thank you for the compliment, I guess. You have already told that to my face a couple of times. And what you said about that place is true. I'll just keep the information to myself for now. When we meet, I'll tell you everything. I won't overwork myself, don't worry. I'm just happy that I can actually play a part in this. I was sick of being ignored. Also, it won't be long. The two kingdoms will probably declare war soon enough. It's already been months and the war preparations are almost over in Moeru. I have everything planned on my side. I'm going to stop the war. I have already taken the actions. But there is one request I still have to tell you. Next time we meet, no matter the place. Even if it's on a battlefield full of enemies and allies, do something for me. Next time we see each other, kiss me.

Shu.

---

Dear Snowflake,

Only have one thing to say, gladly.

Lui.