Chapter 154 - Did it reach you?

So many people were here a few minutes ago. But, to think this place is empty now. There is nobody here.

Her eyes flickered towards the empty seats. She only just realized how many people were seated there — performing like that. She never had such an experience before. If she stayed in that place, then all off this wouldn't be possible. Setsura really was glad she came here. Though in the beginning, she had her doubts and worries. In the end, it turned out like this, who would have thought that she would become this attached to this place.

The first time she came to the Meiji era. Setsura felt so confused, lost, and alone. She appeared on a random and busy street. Because of that, she couldn't comprehend anything. She didn't have time to think anything through unlike those who came before her. Then again, even the previous subjects would have had a hard time adjusting. If she appeared in a place where there were no people, things might end up worse.

One of the things she first discovered about the place was how crowded it was. A crowded place shouldn't surprise her since she lived in TOKYO. But, even then, it was surprising. The sea of bobbing heads, eyes, and limbs. Voices in every corner, and direction. It was difficult for her to adjust to it. Even before she turned to look at the stand to see the date. Setsura knew this place is unfamiliar to her.

Nobody asks to see any identification or interrogate her. Nobody locks her up. However, all of this would have happened if Akito didn't come for her. That much Setsura understood.

Once, she got an accurate estimation of where she was. Setsura assumed that there would be more people than she expected. But, she never expected the sea of people on such a large scale. Even though she said she wouldn't get attached, she ended up doing so far quicker than she thought.

Heh, it seems like she's become soft. It's really laughable. That person would probably think so too. Ah, she should probably contact him…though he's definitely heard about it by now. Setsura wondered if Oslo saw it too - the Guardians who assist with the worlds. The overseeing of the worlds. Those people, what kind of lifestyles do they live in?

"Setsura. You still here?" a voice said from the other end of the stage.

Setsura glanced over to spot black hair. Akito wore his usual signature loop side grin on his face. Yet, she can no longer think of him as a fool. After she saw that painting, 'her impression has changed a lot.'

"Akito," she acknowledged as he steps forward. "Congratulations, I heard you won."

While people bombarded with questions regarding the painting. Akito went off somewhere.

"You.. did you figure out the reason I participated?"

"No. But it really was wonderful. I'm sure your feelings reached that person," Setsura said; happily, that's right. Though he definitely cut it close for time, he still managed to participate, and she was able to watch it. He really has been doing his best concerning that matter after all. When she first heard that he was doing karate, she really was surprised. Victor told her it's because of a recommendation. Yet she had a feeling that there was a deeper reason to it.

Martial arts, huh? She usually wouldn't think about it. After all, her hands are precious. She cannot risk it; however, maybe she ought to do some physical training. Wielding a gun is one thing; she needs to have the stamina to keep up.

"Did they reach you?" Akito asked.

Huh? Why is he asking that? Puzzled Setsura nodded, "Yes, they did."

"Then that's good."

"Huh, why?"

To her surprise, Akito suddenly leaned forward. This action made her instinctively step back, but Akito had her cornered. He wore a bright smile on his face, "Do I have to say it stupid?"

Setsura was about to make a remark about being called stupid when she realizes what he was trying to say as her eyes went in complete shock. Ehhh….wait….does he mean it was for her? Realizing that Setsura felt cheeks color ever so slightly, "How unpleasant."

Akito smiled, "Will you find this next thing unpleasant too?"

She already knew what he was planning to do. How much time has she spent with Akito since she came here? Nearly every day, seldom any days have gone passed without the two of them together. That's why, when he kisses her, things end up this way.

No desire? That's wrong; she's always had desires and dreams. So many goals. Ever since, she regained her freedom.

Don't give up from the start; she's always been very stubborn.

One never knows unless they try. Even if it's impossible, Setsura's always made an effort. Even if it made her look stupid.

Don't look back and move forward.

She knew it from the start. It's okay to be selfish, and extend your hand out.

It will be given.

Even if she doesn't speak for it, it will come - because... "Nngh," Akito murmured against her lips. "Setsura, why don't we go back?"

At that comment, she stepped on his foot, causing him to let go of her. "Hey, Setsura."

"The investigation. You said you'd let me observe."

She isn't the type to get caught up in the moment. Although, she looks back at Akito, who wore a troubled look on his face. Geez, Setsura walked over and pressed her lips against his.

"Shall we go, Akito?"

Akito nodded and took her hand in his.

....

By the time she and Akito arrived at the sight. The investigation groups appeared to be pulling back. Akito frowned, "Something's wrong."

She nodded, and they made their way over.

"Hey, what's going on?" Akito asked one of the men at front.

"We can't disclose--oh Captain!! It's terrible."

"Terrible?"

"Actually just a few minutes ago there was report signaling that a certain building was put on automatic lockdown. It's an area where people don't go to, so we weren't sure if anyone was actually there. But eye witness reports stated that there are indeed workers in that building and that they heard gunfire."

"In other words, the workers are being held, hostage?" Setsura asked.

"Eh, it's the cutie from before. Hey Captain, why is she here with you?"

Akito pulled her closer, "Setsura is coming with me. I'll lead this case."

"Yes, yes, we're waiting for you. Our other leader ran off somewhere."

So, this person is one of Akito's subordinates? She's never seen them properly until now. Whenever she came by, Akito's subordinates would rush off quickly. This person gives of the same playful vibes as Katakura does.

A deep sigh escaped Akito's lips, "Forget him. I've expected anything from him. Fang," Akito called out. A man with short black hair, wearing a long white cheongsam.

"Yes, captain?"

"You lead the next group; work with Kaoru."

"Ehhh? But I want to work with the cutie."

"Understood, sir."

Is this man..Chinese? So, there are other people from other Asian countries here, not just western. Akito's squad, these two alone give of a different impression...