InsaneJournal

Day 363; closed to Soushi
[The knot in Kazuki's gut since arriving, which had hardly been an hour ago, continued to sit heavy. There is absolutely nothing right or acceptable about this situation, and his mind continuously falls back to the same questions.

—Although, most especially, what in the world even is all of this really, and how is it possible? He's been through some unique experiences in his life, but this is beyond all of it. Which says a great deal.

Surroundings aside, Kazuki's thoughts are even more stuck on two things in particular: what threats may this place be under which he isn't aware of yet, and two, Soushi's well-being. The young boy was perfectly taken care of and cared for by plenty of others, but he can't help the concern, and the want and need to return to Watatsumi Island as quick as possible.

At some point Kazuki finds himself upon the beach. Something far more familiar, and able to ease him, however only by a small amount. Regardless, he forces himself to slow down and take a breather; he removes his shoes and lets his toes curl into the warm sand. His eyes close with the intention to try not to look to the sky warily. It's been a fair enough time since there had last been a full blown Festum attack - home having actually become somewhat peaceful in those two years, though no one would ever dare let their guard down completely - but that was the thing. At home it's like that. Who's to say for this Marina Nova place?

When he opens his eyes again, all of those things fly out of his mind when he notices someone swimming in towards the shore. The bright orange jumpsuit is what sticks out the most, answering one question immediately. Which means they must have woken up in the water.

It's when they get to their feet and travel the rest of the way, becoming just close enough by the moment to be clear enough to make out more detail (although it's the soaking wet and very long hair that cements it in), does Kazuki's heart stop.

(Is it really. . .?)

Before he can think of doing otherwise, he's making his way towards him, almost stumbling over his own two feet at first. He takes Soushi's face between both hands, disbelieving gaze flickering between the other's, before wrapping his freind into his arms in a close embrace without even saying a word.

It's been two years, but feels like far, far longer than the first time. Tears welling up in his eyes, Kazuki closes them before any can fall.

Maybe these circumstances aren't actually happening, after all. He's had this sort of dream before.. . . . But either way.]