Tetsu no Sosuke felt tangled up inside, as though weeds had taken root in his heart. He wanted to ask her to stay, but he knew it was impossible.
He scratched his head. His scalp didn't itch at all, but if he stopped, he felt he wouldn't be able to hide his feelings.
"Mm."
Kochou Kanae nodded. "I've been here six or seven days now, haven't I? Thanks to the hot springs, my injuries have completely healed."
"But your Nichirin Blade... it's not finished yet."
Tetsu no Sosuke made one last, feeble attempt to keep her there.
Kochou Kanae smiled and looked at the Nichirin Blade he had repaired in her hands. "You fixed this blade beautifully. I can use it for a long time yet."
Tetsu no Sosuke sighed. "If I'd known, I would've..."
He caught himself before the rest came out.
"You would've what?" Kochou Kanae smiled at him, drew a soft breath, then said, "But you'll forge me the very best Nichirin Blade, won't you?"
Tetsu no Sosuke nodded at once. "Of course!"
"Mm." Kochou Kanae nodded. "I believe you. You're the most extraordinary swordsmith I've ever met. I know you'll give me a wonderful surprise!"
After that, they both fell silent.
Kochou Kanae sat on the veranda, just as she had for the past two days. She picked up a rice ball and took a small bite.
The familiar, distinctive flavor filled her senses. "Delicious."
"I'll make you some more to take back with you. You can eat them whenever you like."
The words slipped out of Tetsu no Sosuke's mouth before he could stop them.
"Really?" Kochou Kanae brightened, then nodded. "Then I'll treasure them and savor every bite."
"Mm."
Tetsu no Sosuke sat down too. "I've already sketched out a design for your new Nichirin Blade. I'll start forging it as soon as I can. Oh, could I ask you for something?"
"Of course." Kochou Kanae nodded. "What is it?"
"A drop of your blood."
Tetsu no Sosuke said it carefully. He didn't know whether she would misunderstand his request, or whether she would refuse.
He had thought they would have plenty of time to work something out.
He hadn't expected her to leave so soon.
Now he had no choice but to ask outright.
"All right."
No questions, no hesitation. Her trust poured over him as freely as the sunlight overhead.
At last, Tetsu no Sosuke asked quietly, "When are you leaving?"
"In a little while."
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