This had to go correctly.
The weight of anxiety on the young lady’s chest felt like if she were to step off the boat she would easily drown the minute she touched the water, sinking to its depths past Enkanomiya, possibly even further into the primordial sea.
It had been her brother’s idea to send her to Watatsumi island, relations were tense even after the vision hunt decree ended, the revolutionaries who had taken shelter, defended by their mighty general were still uneasy about trusting the Shogun, or any of the commission for that matter.
That was precisely why her role was so imperative, she was going to support the bridge that would finally unite all of Inazuma, or at least she hoped so. That was what she promised her brother before borrowing their retainer and setting sail out of Ritou. Thoma seemed eager enough to travel, and there was no way Ayato would let her go alone, so this worked out well.
The island took some time to travel to and the blonde was eager to point out each island as they passed– there was Kannazuka island, where the Kujou Encampment set up base, and the Mikage Furnace had been active. Then Yashiori island, where the great serpent had been slain. By the time they could see what looked like pink cresting waves of coral on the horizon, she had ordered the housekeeper to stand on the other side of the boat. When Ayaka did peek over at Thoma, he always seemed to have a new subject to torture. Regardless, it made her smile just a little.
Stepping off the boat, Ayaka could see the divine priestess and one of her higher-ranking generals standing side by side. In preparation, Ayaka took notes on what she knew about the commander of Watatsumi Island. Unmatched tactician, wise beyond years, and a brilliant and fierce fighter, according to the Kamisato’s family resources, the Sangonomiya line was truly formidable.
Yet, as they descended off the boat's docks, Ayaka was unprepared to confront just how ethereal the other woman was. Her icy eyes drifted with the soft bubbles of water that seemed to glisten and float lazily, congregating around the mermaid,
“Hello Miss Kamisato, we’ve been expecting you.” A small pleasant smile spread across the priestess’ face, Ayaka’s attention seemed to snap away from the drifting bubbles back onto her hostess, embarrassed by her spacing out.
Ayaka felt her face heat up, she couldn’t get flustered like this, she was a lady! “Thank you for graciously hosting us for the week.” Ayaka moved to bow respectfully, twisting her fan gracefully, using it as an excuse to freeze the fan and cool her pink cheeks. “I look forward to working with you to make this cultural festival a success.”
“I’ve always wanted to ask this–” Thoma interrupted, Ayaka turned to see her retainer enraptured by the Watatsumi Commander’s general. She knew where this was going. “Can I touch your ears?” He was already moving, stepping past her, reaching for the general's head.
“Don’t even think about it!” The general’s voice cracked as it blasted through the higher octaves, tensing, preparing to evade his hand. Ayaka couldn’t help but notice her housekeeper’s face as he passed by her, turning back to give a subtle wink as he followed through with his impulses.
Taking a few steps away from the scene they were creating, Ayaka joined the divine priestess in watching them. “I have to admit, it’s funny to watch Gorou retreat like this.” She admitted, her tone was so melodic it nearly stunned Ayaka again.
“Thoma is incorragable.” She recovered quickly, shaking her head, and grinning at the other woman. “It will make the week interesting at the very least, right, Your Excellency?”
Ayaka had determined something peculiar about the divine priestess within the first evening of their time together– it was that the priestess seemed adamant about schedules and plans. As they approached the Sangonomiya Shrine, Ayaka watched the jellyfish float past her, dancing in tune with the rush of the waterfalls that seemed to fall off the edge of the world. Kokomi only let their group linger momentarily before checking her small handbook and ushering everyone onward into the shrine.
Pausing to speak to one of the shrine maidens at the entrance of the temple, Ayaka analyzed the designs of the fabric. The way pearls seemed to be incorporated into their hair and jewelry, her curiosity piqued.
“I have to admit, the Sangonomiya Shrine is impeccable.” Thoma inspected, despite his light tone Ayaka knew he was only partially talking about the cleanliness of the place. He had earned the rank of the Kamisato family’s retainer for a reason. He was sharp, those olive eyes saw many things neither her brother nor herself saw.
As Kokomi turned around to address them again Ayaka couldn’t help but notice her pleased expression. “The beading that is embroidered on the shrine maiden's sleeves is exquisite” Ayaka marveled.
“Those are made from the sango pearls found locally.” kokomi explained.
“I cannot wait to see more of the local flora and fauna of the island.” Ayaka grinned “May I take a closer look?” Ayaka turned to look at the shrine maiden who nodded once and held out her sleeves. Ayaka stepped closer and touched the edges of the stiff fabric.
“It’s common for young ladies to learn embroidery and other arts back on Narukami Island, but I don’t think I could ever make something so masterful.”
“Perhaps the lady would like to try on Sangonomiya Shrine’s miko?” The shrine maiden spoke up, clearly amused by Ayaka’s wondrous expression.
“I think that’s a fantastic idea,” Thoma spoke up, Ayaka nodding along gleefully.
“I would be honored.” She agreed, barely able to keep a respectful expression.
“I did not prepare this in my schedule-” Kokomi spoke up pulling her handbook free to flip through the pages.
“It’s not every day the opportunity to wear such a beautifully crafted miko, and you have to admit Ayaka would look splendid dressed as a Sangonomiya shrine maiden, don’t you think so, Your Excellency?” Thoma prompted her, Kokomi looked up from her handbook to see Ayaka’s hopeful expression and her housekeeper using the edge of the shrine maiden's sleeve to swatch it across Ayaka’s shoulder.
The divine priestess snapped her book shut abruptly, her cheeks pink. “If that is what our guests wish to do, I will alter our plans and have my general make the necessary adjustments.” Purple eyes drifted to Gorou who was standing and speaking with other soldiers a few feet away. His ears seemed to flick at the sound of Kokomi’s voice, twisting back to listen.
A small squeal of delight escaped Ayaka as the shrine maiden reached out to lead her away and make necessary preparations. Kokomi left their group to speak to her general. Taking a moment to regain her composure Ayaka looked at Thoma. “Don’t forget we’re here to work” She needed to remind him as much as herself.
They spent the rest of the evening receiving a tour of the Sangonomiya shrine, Kokomi led them along, her back stiff as she tried to fulfill her adjusted schedule. Even as they were taken to the quarters where they would be staying for the week, everything was planned down to their meal breaks.
Standing alone in their rooms, connected by shoji doors, Thoma inspected every corner of the room. “I can understand now why the commander of the resistance is so formidable.” Ayaka said, “The priestess isn’t exactly like what I imagined.” She admitted fiddling with her empty cup, she sat quietly, watching Thoma secure the space before he joined her with the brewing tea, pouring the cup for her. Lifting the cup to her mouth she let the steam wafting against her face be her excuse for why her face was so hot– no other reason.
“She is quite beautiful” Thoma agreed, Ayaka paused, not allowing herself to spit out the tea in surprise. Her expression turned into one of reproach, causing Thoma to laugh at her expense. “Don’t say you didn’t mean it like that.” Which was precisely what she was about to say. “I saw your face when we got off the boat, I’ve known you since we were children, if anyone can read you, it’s me.” He was so confident, and the worst part was, he had every reason to be.
***
“This is Mouun Shrine” Kokomi’s words were clipped, Ayaka imagined her sour mood had to be their fault. By the first light of dawn, the Sangonomiya shrine maidens had woken them up with breakfast, bringing a few sets of watasumi’s local clothes. The commander had written precise instructions for the maidens. Since Ayaka had enjoyed wearing the priestess robes so much, she arranged for them to have some of Watatsumi’s local fashions delivered to their guests. Ayaka had been overjoyed, taking a moment to feel each fabric and marvel at how different the fabrics and embroidered designs were from Narukami island. She had spent a better portion of the morning taking notes and writing down ideas for the festival that she lost track of time. At least until the priestess had appeared, displeased with their lack of attention to the time and her intended itinerary.
Even as they journeyed towards the west side of the island, Ayaka had no time to admire the colors of the island. She wanted to be able to sketch out the plants that were local to the island, but every time she stopped to crouch low and take notes, the priestess paused, pulled her handbook out of her pocket and made adjustments, whispered whatever updated plans to Gorou, and sent the general off on errands.
“According to what remains of our history,” Kokomi continued as Ayaka stepped up to inspect the remains of the small shrine. “It was dedicated to one of Orobashi’s legendary shrine maidens. She led the great serpent’s navy during the uprising before being ambushed by Sasayori’s subordinates.” Kokomi’s mood seemed to shift as she told the story. Her excitement seemed to bubble out in time with the floating bubbles and sea spirits around them as she talked about the historical warfare.
“She must have been formidable to have a shrine in her honor.” Ayaka turned to see Kokomi watching her, walking towards her.
“She was.” Kokomi agreed. “From the texts and oral stories we have, she was from one of the great Watasumi clans that can be traced back to Enkanomiya. Their lineage was particularly skilled in whalesong, and she is considered the greatest master of the gift. Her fleet was led by herself and Daikengyou, together they led 500 narwhals and 500 whales.” She went on, “They were formidable in battle but once Orobashi and King Akuou were slain…” She drifted off, deep in thought. “Mouun was ambushed and killed, but others believe that she went mad with grief at the death of her lover and comrades and went to retrieve the bodies of the fallen.”
“How tragic” Ayaka sympathized, clapping her hands together to send a small prayer in respect.
“The entire sea mourned the loss of Yuna Mouun.” Ayaka took notes as Kokomi continued her lecture, she had never heard the commander talk so much, or so passionately for that matter.
“You say there are rituals involving whalesong? Is it something we would be able to recreate for the festival? I think many people would love to experience such a rich and valuable part of Watatsumi’s culture.” Kokomi tilted her head in thought, pausing for a long moment as she mulled the idea over in her mind.
“So many rituals are lost to time, but I might be able to find notes, or writings for you to take back with you.” Kokomi agreed, Ayaka let out a small delightful noise, giddy with satisfaction. Walking around the area, she moved to stand beside the cliffside and look down at the banks that the sea’s waves crashed against.
“It’s a hauntingly beautiful spot,” Ayaka started. “One could write poetry about it.” She told the priestess, who when she turned to look at her, was once again writing in her small handbook.
“I have never been a fan of poetry, but if you would like me to also look for poetry about the island–” Kokomi started, her voice once again clipped from the pressure of altering their itinerary. They seemed back to this again.
“Oh! Are those the pearls you were talking about?” Ayaka interrupted her, squinting to peer down to see bright pink clams glittering against the bright blue water. The priestess barely had time to speak before Ayaka attempted to shuffle down the cliffside, the Watatsumi clothing Ayaka wore was a lot thinner than the silks and the stiff heavy cotton that she was used to. There was no armor or well-covered shoes that allowed her to grip the ledge as she found herself losing her balance on the rocks.
Ayaka barely had enough time to draw her sword and let the ice consume it as she slashed out. A thin sheet of ice formed like a slide as she tumbled onto it to break her fall. Rolling down onto the beach, the commander leapt from the side, carried by the bubbles and water spirits that surrounded her before gracefully appearing next to Ayaka who was slowly sitting up.
“Apologies, I got too ahead of myself.” Ayaka felt her face heat with shame as she sat upright, her ankle tender. “These clothes are different from what I am accustomed to, it made my movements sloppy and unladylike.” grateful that she had managed to avoid any real damage, she watched the priestess crouch over her.
“Watatsumi’s clothing is traditionally much thinner since we are often moving in and out of water. It also is much more humid and hot here so our clothes are meant to dry moisture quickly.” She explained. Ayaka watched as Kokomi inspected her tender ankle, it seemed that the thin laces to the sandal were thin and while the pearl beading was very elegant it was painful in practice. “You should be more careful” The priestess chided Ayaka as she watched her wave her hands, the water in the air pulled itself into a small stream as her hydro vision activated and moved with her hands. Kokomi rested her hand on Ayaka’s ankle, the water glowing softly as she felt the pain dissipate. Ayaka watched, transfixed on Kokomi, her head bent in concentration as Ayaka tried to flex her ankle.
“It is no wonder the tri-commission struggled against your resistance,” Ayaka commented, Kokomi looked up finally, still holding her ankle as narrowed ocean eyes stared at her, expectantly waiting for her to continue. Ayaka glanced away from her stare, afraid that if she stared into those eyes any longer she would sink into them and drown.
“We are people that have come from the depths of the sea itself, our home was gifted by the great coral serpent and we have struggled for generations to hold on to our customs and our gods, we must always be resilient and prepared.”
“Do you believe Inazuma can truly ever be united as one?” The question had been one that Ayaka had been mulling over since before she even arrived on the island, she hadn’t meant to blurt it out, but it seemed her tongue had other plans.
“Most people I believe, are willing to accept the Shogun’s rule, but they will never be able to let go of their worship.” Kokomi chose her words carefully.
“I don’t believe that the archon wishes for people to abandon their gods, merely to all heal and move forward together from this civil war.” That was why this cultural festival was so important to her.
“You seem keen to show us the history of your island, but I would like to know more about the people, about the culture, the art, and the literature that has persisted for as long as they have.”
“Culture and history go hand in hand, Miss Kamisato.”
“Please, call me Ayaka.”
“Culture and history go hand in hand, Ayaka.”
“Perhaps I could call you Kokomi?” The priestess blanched, they were holding two different conversations and it seemed to Ayaka that she was not interested in the latter.
“If that is what you wish.” Kokomi relented. Ayaka grinned at her, pulling her foot free from the grasp that Kokomi still had on it, sitting on her knees in front of the mermaid.
“I want to know why people chose to live here, what is in their hearts, what they enjoy, and why this place means so much to its people.” Ayaka reached out to grab Kokomi’s hands, holding both of them gently enough that the priestess could pull her hands free if she wished. She didn’t.
“I want to know more about you, Kokomi.” This seemed to startle the priestess, which only pushed Ayaka onward. “I want to know, how you spend your free time. This is work, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have fun together too, correct?” Ayaka had cleverly trapped the mermaid, she was quite good at getting what she wanted.
“Perhaps I have been too controlling.” She admitted,
“Let’s look at your itinerary again over dinner, we can make a new one together.” Both girls seemed to smile at the thought.
“Compromise is part of being able to draft long-lasting peace treaties.” Kokomi finally seemed to relent, staring down at their joined hands.
“Lady Kamisato!” Thoma’s voice broke their immersion and both girls reluctantly jumped apart, their hands dropping. “You’re not hurt are you?” There was a hint of smugness in her retainer's voice.
***
They spent the rest of the evening overlooking Kokomi’s itinerary for their visit, this seemed like a daunting task for the priestess, but nevertheless, they found space to compromise. Ayaka was more curious about the local food and art that could be found around the island. So they settled on a morning of historical tours and an evening of play.
“Do you remember what I told you about Mouun Shrine?” Kokomi asked as they walked along the Suigetsu pool’s remains. Gorou and Thoma had worked to clear out any remains of ruin guards so the two ladies could spend their time casually. Ayaka nodded eagerly, she discovered pretty quickly that Kokomi liked talking about these things. It was easy for Ayaka to indulge Kokomi since she was such a gentle and kind person. It was equally easy for Ayaka to forget that she was a commander in battle– of course, this was what Kokomi found fun. “Mouun was the younger of two twins. Ayame was another descendant of one of the Yuna Clan, both were generals to Orobashi alongside the great king Akuou. She was said to control and move the seas through the secrets of the Yuna clan.” They approached the center of the ruins, peering over Kokomi jumped down swiftly, using the vines as leverage offering her hand out to Ayaka.
Leaping down, she accepted the Divine priestess's hand to cushion her fall as she tumbled into Kokomi. “What is this place?” Ayaka asked, standing up to dust herself off.
“These are the ruins of the palace where Ayame and the other two generals resided. Up until recently, it was full of water so we are still learning so much more about what happened in their era.” She explained as they looked around. “You also mentioned wanting to collect some Sango pearls and see the local flora and fauna.” Kokomi continued speaking as she moved some plants around revealing a hole in the stone that had crumbled away.
Ayaka had been busy to notice, inspecting some of the bioluminescent flowers, sketching them quickly before plucking one free and pressing it in between the pages. Turning to see what Kokomi had done a large grin grew as she hurried over to her companion. “What is this?” she breathed out, peeking down the hole.
“We could find out.” Kokomi offered, both girls exchanging conspiratorial looks.
“What about the two up there?” She motioned back to Thoma and Gorou, busy clearing the upper island of any danger. They stared at each other, understanding passing between them as both moved to slide down the hole.
Water spirits lit the dark like the soft bouncing whisps within the forests at the base of Mount. Yougou, the reflection of waves in the water made the stone look as if they were underwater.
Soft moving water seemed to usher them in a direction, leading them from the room and into a hallway. “The style of the ruins is incredibly similar to the structures from Enkanomiya that I’ve read about,” Kokomi told her, her fingers brushing along the wall. Ayaka was struck by how magical everything around her seemed. These ruins were something sacred and she could feel it, humming around them.
“It’s quite beautiful” Ayaka spoke up, unsure of just what part of the scenario she was speaking about. The feeling in the air was beautiful, the glowing life around her was beautiful, and Kokomi was beautiful. For a moment she felt she was invading something private, something personal.
“There are many pearls down here that we can collect.” Kokomi motioned around them, prompting Ayaka to look around. Any uneasiness disappeared as they strolled along, collecting pearls, flowers, and whatever else they saw that made Ayaka’s eyes light up.
“You said that the entire sea mourned the loss of Mouun,” Ayaka began as she plucked the pearls free the way Kokomi had instructed her. “Were you talking about her sister then?” She asked.
“In some ways.” Kokomi nodded, watching her. “No one knows what happened to Ayame, most believe she disappeared into the seas from grief at the loss of her god and her family.”
“How tragic, how beautiful. There is a lovely story here, if there are any ballads or poems on the legend, I would love to transcribe it and take it with me to craft a performance for the festival.” Ayaka scribbled fiercely into her notes. Kokomi gave her an affirmative nod as they returned to collecting pearls in comfortable silence.
Once there was a satisfying amount, both women agreed the return to the surface where their companions waited. “I have a suggestion for the play half of our day,” Kokomi spoke up as they crawled through the hole once more, stumbling upon the ruins within the Suigetsu pool.
“You want to alter the itinerary?” Ayaka flipped her fan open and held it, playing coy before flashing a smug grin. “The Commander of the Watatsumi army?” She flapped the fan as if she was scandalized. Her grin faltered slightly as Kokomi produced a handful of flowers from her bag and held them out, a small ring of flowers had been woven together and placed on Ayaka’s head.
“Let’s make parting gifts with the pearls.” Whether it was her blood rushing to her cheeks or the sounds of the ocean in her ears, her heart beat so loudly that she couldn't tell.
***
“I want to see what is at the heart of the Sangonomiya Shrine,” Ayaka announced to Kokomi as they stood at the edge of one of the coral shells, she had been curious about the center of Watatsumi island since they arrived, now that the two had become inseparable over the past few days, Ayaka felt much more confident expressing what she wanted.
“In what way?” Kokomi asked as Ayaka pointed directly downward.
“I want to look up at all the waterfalls instead of down. I am tired of imagining what it looks like when I could just see it for myself.” She stated simply.
“The bottom of the ocean has a whirlpool that used to seal off Enkanomiya, there are also hidden caverns along the island…” Kokomi began listing off the things that could potentially cause trouble, Ayaka turned to watch her for a few minutes before she found herself unfurling her glider and leaping.
The wind caught her and glided her safely towards another scale of the coral that she could brace on. Lowering her arms she looked up and saw Kokomi staring at her preposterously. Brimming with confidence Ayaka snapped her fan open and waved at her. The mermaid was leaping off the edge, the bubbles around them seemed to catch her and glide her down.
“If you insist.” She grumbled, “But we're going to listen to my instructions to avoid any unnecessary trouble.” Kokomi reached out for Ayaka’s hand to stop her from leaping off again.
“I may be a lady, but I am an expert in my family's sword art, I’m quite formidable too.” Ayaka’s tone was light, it may have taken her a handful of days but now she understood when Kokomi was having fun.
“I do not doubt it.” She smiled at her, and Ayaka continued to hold her hand. Kokomi nodded and held on to her hand as she felt the air thicken as the priestess's hydro vision lit up, the water turning to bubbles and floating upward around them. One of the jellyfish ocean spirits slowly drew near them, twisting and floating along the bubbles. Kokomi stepped out and touched down on the top of its head as Ayaka followed with her, her eyes were wide as she kneeled to touch the spirit in fascination as it descended downward, carrying the two girls. Ayaka looked up as the waterfall’s sound filled her ears. She admired the way they fell like curtains, spilling against the cliffsides, blending pinks, blues, and purples as they descended further down.
Kokomi watched her fascinated expression as they stood on one of the lower sandbars of the water, the spirit taking its leave and floating off. “It's gorgeous” Ayaka looked around, spinning in small circles to take in the view from every direction.
“I agree” Ayaka turned to see that Kokomi was still staring at her. Both girls' faces flushed as more than silence filled the space between them.
“I wish I could simply pick up all Watatsumi and bring it back with me, but I doubt any of the plants would make it, let alone the entire island.” She continued to look up at the way the water fell around them. The boat ride between islands wasn’t extremely long, but there was no way the plants would make it back and last until they could put the festival together.
“I’m sure whatever solution you come up with will be a source of pride for the inhabitants of Watatsumi,” Kokomi assured her.
“You’ll be coming to the cultural festival once we bring everything together, won’t you?” Ayaka asked, how had she gone this long without realizing that she had never formally invited the Divine Priestess to the festival being made to honor her people. “I’m sure my brother would be willing to arrange passage for any of the locals who would also love to travel to Narukami island.” She continued, suddenly eager to show Kokomi the lovely pieces of her own home.
“I’m not particularly good with… other people” Kokomi admitted. “I’m much better spending time with one person or by myself.” Ayaka felt her chest deflate at the rejection. “But this is supposed to help unite all of Inazuma, that is a good enough reason to attend.” She amended quickly. The air seemed to shift, needles growing into the shapes of ice crystals formed around the bubbles of water floating nearest to Ayaka.
“We would also be able to see each other too.” The priestess's voice hitched with anxiety, they were both aware Kokomi seemed to be saying the wrong things. Breathing out the frozen bubbles shattered as Ayaka regained her composure and let her ladylike mask slip back on with a pleasant smile.
“I was thinking, if we can’t bring Watatsumi to Narakumi island then we could make flowers out of paper, and maybe use banners or drapes to look like the waterfalls. There are plenty of talented artists within the city, I’m sure all of the information and ideas we’ve gathered will come in handy.”
“I think paper flowers are a lovely idea” Kokomi agreed, “I can search for any photographs or history books that might aid you. I’ll have them transcribed before you return to Narakumi Island.
***
In the final days of the trip, Ayaka had once again decided to busy herself with work. In the week they had been on Watatsumi island she had let herself get too distracted, she supposed in her mind she had begun to think of this as a vacation. She let herself be swept up in the enchantment of the island and its divine priestess. Thoma was no help either, he seemed to constantly be pushing her into playing, suddenly disappearing or finding excuses not to work with her.
In reality, Thoma had been busier than ever, her retainer had gone to Bourou Village and spoken to locals and samurai alike. He collected recipes from many of them, learned tales and songs directly from the villagers, and how to care for the specimens they could potentially take back with them.
He had also taken up the mantle of building relationships with the remaining resistance soldiers. Accepting their troubles on behalf of the Kamisato Clan, finding ways to aid the suffering village that would allow the island to flourish. While Ayaka had been off playing and spending time with Kokomi, her housekeeper had been saving their mission here. Sitting at the table in their quarters, she watched Thoma brew the tea and brief her on what he had been doing while she and the priestess fooled around. Ayaka listened, twisting the stem of one of the flowers in the crown Kokomi had gifted her.
“I’d like to talk to Yae Miko about allowing a few Sangonomiya shrine maidens a space to set up a dedicated shrine to Orobashi. It might help finally smooth the relationship between Narukami and Watatsumi if we show that there is space for everyone regardless of what gods they worship.” Ayaka’s fingers drifted over to the pearls she had collected, fiddling with the bag of beads. Once they returned the shrine maidens took their collection, turned them into various types of beads, and gave them to both girls. If she was to make something for Kokomi, she would have to do it soon.
“I think that might be possible. Now that the Shogun is more involved with the city, it might be an opportunity for everyone to come to terms with Inazuma’s scars and finally make amends.” Thoma agreed, leaning down he poured her cup of tea before sitting down to pick up one of the tops that Ayaka had torn during an excursion.
“I can’t believe it slipped my mind to invite the people of Watatsumi island to the festival being held in their honor.” Ayaka let her head fall on the table in shame, pushing the pearls away. She wanted to apologize to Kokomi for overreacting, but the commander had been strangely absent. When Ayaka thought to inquire about where she was, no one seemed to know.
“What do you mean, your brother already took care of all of that when he sent out a letter to Her Excellency before we set sail.” Thoma picked up the pearls and examined them.
“I was thinking we could make Omamori with these, blessings from Watatsumi island, especially if we’d like to host a space for the great serpent,” Ayaka said, finally sitting her head up. That had been her plan, she saw how Kokomi had loved talking about her history and the war between their homelands. The Shrine maidens loved the idea and set to work painting tiles for them to use, but of course, she couldn’t tell Kokomi about it because she had no idea where the mermaid was!
Ayaka let her frustration get the better of her for a moment as she hit the table with her fist, jarring the bag of pearls as they spilled across the table. Just as quickly she began scooping them up. Thoma stood up to assist her, just as a light knock on her door made them pause.
“Is the Lady Kamisato available?” The light melodic voice was easily identifiable to Ayaka, like magic she had summoned Kokomi to her door. Standing up abruptly she hurried over to the door and slid it open. Kokomi carried a vast amount of books her her hands, Gorou just behind her with a pile of his own that was comically larger than Kokomi’s.
“Let me help you with that!” Ayaka reached out to grab half of the books from Kokomi. Carefully they ushered their guests to the table and set all the books down, the general huffing behind as he wheezed from the weight of his pile.
“These are all texts I thought might be useful, I read through most of them and flagged pages to make a comprehensive guide to Watatsumi and its culture. If I had more time I would have written it myself…” Kokomi began.
“Four hands are better than one.” Ayaka interrupted her, smiling. “Is this why you’ve been missing for the last few days?” She asked.
“I just needed to recharge a bit, would you like to take a walk with me?” Kokomi asked as Thoma began organizing the books on the table. Ayaka looked down at her retainer, they would be fine for a few minutes without them, right?
Both girls walked in silence through the village, it seemed Kokomi had a destination in mind as she led them across bridges and down pathways to and towards the beaches, only stopping at the entrance to a cave.
“What is this?” Ayaka asks as they step inside, she was immediately overwhelmed by the sight. Piles of books surrounded the desk, they littered the floors and the walls. So many books that made the space feel borderline claustrophobic.
“This is where I go to recharge, I don’t show people this place, but you’re leaving back to Narukami tomorrow, and I wanted to figure out the correct words to say.” She began, “I thought maybe if we talked about them here, I wouldn’t mess up so badly again.” This was the first time she had seen Kokomi look so vulnerable.
“I should apologize, Kokomi. I shouldn’t have gotten so cold with you, I was sad at the idea of never seeing you again, and I took those emotions out on you. I am sorry.”
“I am also sorry,” Kokomi reached out, upturning her palms to give something to her. They were multiple small tied knots similar to the ones she wore in her hair, only these were interwoven with sango pearls and pieces of coral. “I cannot wait to visit you on Narukami island and see the festival you are working so hard on come together, and I hope you can wear these and think of our time together here.” She reached out to touch Ayaka’s hair,
“May I?” She paused, waiting for Ayaka’s permission before fiddling with the ones currently tied in her hair, her delicate fingers carefully unwinding the rope and replacing them with the new ones.
“I also made this for you,” Ayaka spoke up quickly, reaching for the pouch she kept on her belt. She pulled free a small paper flower similar to the ones she had made the flower crown out of, the pearls were sewn into the petals. Ayaka had spent the last two days using Thoma’s sewing kit to make the flower. Kokomi stared down at it, her mouth just slightly open in surprise. Ayaka took the opportunity to place it in Kokomi’s hair, securing it behind her ear. Kokomi reached up to touch her hand, holding it in her own.
They both stared at each other, there was no need to speak, not when they knew exactly what the other was thinking.
***
They spent the rest of the evening sequestered with Thoma and Gorou building a guide for Ayaka to take home. One by one, their party members seemed to pass out from exhaustion. Even as Ayaka struggled to wake up the next morning, she found Kokomi awake, dark bruises beginning to spread underneath her eyes as she wrote. The Shrine Maidens had prepared everything for them as Thoma and Ayaka prepared to depart.
“I made sure to outline as many things as possible for you, and also to write in backup plans. I doubt you will need backup plans, but I wanted to be sure you would have everything you need to make this festival go off exactly how you envision it.” Kokomi told her, pressing her journal back into her hands. Leaning forward, the priestess whispered into her ear “I can’t wait to see how it all comes together.”
Ayaka’s face turned bright red as she nodded eagerly. “We will enjoy it together.” She agreed, choosing to keep her words short and light. “I will read over it on the journey home, and I will make sure to send you back my notes and questions.” Ayaka smiled at her, keeping her expression polite and reserved.
“Any correspondence from you will be welcome here.” Kokomi agreed, appearing equally polite and reserved. Neither of them wanted to move, to end this visit. Ayaka feared that if she spoke up, her voice would crack with emotion. Unfurling her fan she leaned forward to block both her retainer and the general from view, Ayaka placed a small chaste kiss on Kokomi’s cheek. Her purple eyes were wide, her cheeks red as her eyes danced back and forth, searching for an answer to a question neither of them had said aloud. Ayaka took this moment to rush forward and grab Thoma, embarrassed by her impulses.
As they stood on the boat, watching the island disappear on the horizon, Thoma leaned down to poke Ayaka’s cheek affectionately. She swatted him away wistfully, her eyes still lingering on the retreating island. This wasn’t the end, Ayaka was sure of that.
