Echoes of the Cursed

The infirmary hummed with quiet activity as word of Kazu's awakening spread through the base. Members of the Yankai filtered in, one by one, carrying flowers, snacks, and stories to brighten his mood. Though Kazu's body was weak, his heart felt lighter than it had in years.

Kaku had taken it upon herself to act as gatekeeper, ensuring Kazu wasn't overwhelmed during his recovery. Her stern but protective demeanor earned teasing remarks from Unmei and Hanzo, who jested about her newfound "motherly" tendencies. She took it in stride, for once unconcerned about appearances—her only priority was her brother.

As evening set in, Camron arrived with a small bag in hand. He paused at the doorway, watching as Kazu spoke softly with Hanzo. Though Kazu's voice was faint, his smile radiated warmth.

Kaku noticed Camron lingering and approached. "He's been asking about you," she said quietly, stepping aside.

Camron's gaze softened as he moved closer. "Hey, little brother," he greeted, his voice warm.

Kazu's tired eyes lit up at the sight of him. "Camron," he murmured, a flicker of strength in his voice.

Camron placed the bag on the bed and retrieved a small, wrapped package. "I brought you something. Thought you might like it."

With trembling hands, Kazu unwrapped the gift, revealing a simple wooden carving of a star. The craftsmanship was rough but heartfelt. Kazu's throat tightened as he clutched it close.

"It's not much," Camron said, scratching the back of his neck. "But it reminded me of how you shine, even in the darkest times."

Kazu's voice was soft but filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Camron. It's perfect."

Kaku observed the exchange with a faint smile. Her initial wariness of Camron had faded; seeing his bond with Kazu eased her reservations. Kami had trusted this man, and now he was proving himself worthy of that trust.

The room settled into a quiet calm, broken only by the sound of Kazu's soft breaths.

Kaku's voice was steady as she broke the silence. "We're all here for you, Kazu. You don't have to carry everything alone anymore."

Kazu's eyes glistened. "I know," he whispered. "And… I'm sorry. For being a burden."

Kaku shook her head firmly. "You're not a burden. You never were. If anything, I failed you. But I'm going to make it right. I promise."

Kazu's smile was small but sincere. "Thank you, Kaku."

The tender moment was interrupted by Unmei bursting through the door with a tray of steaming soup. "Alright, enough with the heavy stuff! Time to get some food in you, Kazu. You need to build up your strength!"

Hanzo chuckled, taking the tray from Unmei. "Let's not overwhelm him. One step at a time."

As the evening wore on, the room filled with warmth and laughter. For the first time in what felt like forever, Kazu felt truly surrounded by family—not just by blood, but by bond. Though his body was fragile, his spirit had never been stronger.

Hanzo couldn't pinpoint when his feelings had shifted. Maybe it was during the desperate fight to save Kazu, seeing him bound and broken but still fiercely protective. Or perhaps it was in the quiet moments by Kazu's bedside, holding his hand and willing him to wake up.

Now, as he watched Kazu laugh with Camron, a strange warmth spread through his chest. This wasn't mere camaraderie or friendship. It was deeper, more intense.

When Camron left, Hanzo lingered, pretending to adjust Kazu's pillows. Kazu tilted his head, a playful smile on his lips.

"Hanzo, you've been hovering a lot lately," Kazu teased. "Is something wrong?"

Hanzo froze, caught off guard. "I'm not hovering," he said quickly—too quickly.

Kazu chuckled, his voice still hoarse. "Sure, whatever you say."

A comfortable silence settled over the room. Hanzo busied himself pouring water for Kazu, though his mind was racing. The fluttering in his chest was growing impossible to ignore.

"Hey, Kazu," Hanzo said abruptly, his tone more serious than intended.

Kazu looked up, curiosity in his gaze. "Yeah?"

Hanzo hesitated, his usual confidence faltering. "I just… I'm glad you're okay. I don't think I've ever been as scared as I was when we thought we'd lost you."

Kazu's smile softened. "Thanks, Hanzo. That means a lot."

Hanzo nodded, his throat tight. He wanted to say more, to put words to the feelings swirling within him, but he couldn't—not yet. Instead, he stood, offering a small smile.

"Get some rest. I'll check on you later."

As Hanzo left the room, he pressed a hand to his chest, feeling the furious pounding of his heart.

"Dammit," he muttered under his breath. "When did this happen?"

The realization struck him like a bolt of lightning. This wasn't admiration or simple friendship. It was love—raw and undeniable. The thought exhilarated and terrified him. But one thing was clear: these feelings weren't going away.

Hanzo paced nervously outside the girls' common room. If anyone could help him navigate this, it was them. Steeling himself, he knocked on the door.

Iris answered, her head tilting curiously. "Hanzo? What brings you here?"

Behind her, Kanako, Aoi, and Fukaime lounged on couches, chatting and snacking. Their heads turned as Hanzo stepped inside.

"Uh, hey," Hanzo began awkwardly. "Can I talk to you guys? I need some advice."

Kanako patted the seat beside her. "Come in! Spill the tea."

Hanzo hesitated, then sat. "It's about Kazu."

The room fell silent. The girls exchanged glances before leaning closer.

"What about him?" Aoi asked gently.

Hanzo rubbed the back of his neck, his cheeks warming. "I… I think I'm in love with him."

The room erupted with squeals and gasps.

"Hanzo!" Iris exclaimed. "That's adorable!"

"Finally," Fukaime smirked. "We were starting to wonder when you'd figure it out."

Hanzo blinked. "Wait, you knew?"

Kanako laughed. "Oh, please. You've been glued to his side since he woke up. It was obvious."

Groaning, Hanzo buried his face in his hands. "Great. So what do I do?"

"First," Aoi said calmly, "decide how you want to approach this. Are you ready to tell him? Or do you need time?"

Hanzo thought. "I don't want to rush it. He's been through so much already."

"That's sweet," Kanako said. "But you'll have to tell him eventually."

Fukaime nodded. "Be honest when it feels right. Kazu values sincerity."

Iris grinned. "And if you need help planning something romantic, we've got you."

Hanzo chuckled, feeling lighter. "Thanks, guys."

As he stood, Aoi added, "Hanzo, one more thing."

He turned to her. She smiled knowingly. "Kazu's stronger than you think. Don't underestimate his ability to handle your feelings."

Her words resonated deeply. Hanzo nodded. "I'll keep that in mind."

As he walked away, a renewed sense of purpose filled him. He didn't know when or how, but he would tell Kazu. Until then, he would take it one step at a time and let his heart guide him.