Previous on Chapter 17

"She will get her voice back." 

"I hope you all will have a great time this evening." The brunette left along with her fiancée.

"Kuroko-chan…? Is that you?"

"His mother, Minoru Setsuna was the mistress to the Kuroko head family, Kuroko Kenji who is also the father of your sister, Kuroko Tetsuki and her blood brother, Kuroko Hibiki. Which means Kuroko Hibiki really is Tsuki-chan real brother."

"TSUKI-CHAN, I PROMISE I'LL FIND YOU! I WILL FIND YOU NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE!"

______________________

“The renowned world class composer slash musician, HEAVEN who went missing from the music industry since five months ago has made her appearance at the wedding dinner of the renowned band leader, Akashi Seijuro of the Generation of Miracles in New York.” The anchor of the channel announced as videos of the said bluenette trying to escape from the massive questions as she was about to leave the hotel along with Kagami Taiga.

The news spreads like wildfire across the globe through media and words, right after the evening functions ends. HEAVEN identity has been reveal to the public.

 “Who would ever expect it that HEAVEN would be a teenage Japanese girl at the age of 21 years old and Kagami Taiga of Seirin adopted younger sister, Kuroko Tetsuki?!” Kuroko looked at the news on the flat screen TV in front of her as she curls up into a ball on the bed; she hugged the white soft pillow and pressed it to her ears, trying to block everything out of her mind.

“HEAVEN made her first debut 8 years ago, that would mean she was still in middle school at the age of 13 years old! To be able to debut and having the world eyes on her at such a young age, Kuroko Tetsuki truly is a genius that appears once every 70 ye—“the screen turns off abruptly. Kuroko looks up from the pillow.

There stood the bassist of EUTERPE with the remote control in his hands as he turns around and he sighed. “How long are you going to stay in bed?” he leans against the wall near the bed. They are still in New York, and it has been two days since the dinner. Kagami tried his best to get Kuroko leave the room but failed. While Hibiki has things to do downtown, he still acted calm as usual even after what has happened.

“Mayuzumi-san…”Kuroko sat up and looked away. Mayuzumi frowned. “It doesn't matter to me if you’re HEAVEN or not, we’re friends and that’s that.” The pianist kept silent.

One thing the bassist dislike was seeing his friends looked down or in a slump, he straightened up, “Stay here, I’ll come back with something.” He left the room, making sure it is locked since he has the extra card key to the room.

About an hour later,

The scent of delicious chocolate cake fills the room. Mayuzumi had someone brought the cake up after he was done baking, after they were left alone. The bassist prepared the tea as he puts the tray that has the cake on the bed, in front of the pianist. Kuroko orbs blinks as she looked at the cake and then to Mayuzumi who was preparing the tea and putting something in a bowl from the small transparent bottle.

“What is this, Mayuzumi-san…?” she asked, following the tall bassist form that moves from the small trolley then to the bed where the tray of cake is.

“As you can see it’s a cake and I want you to try it out.” He puts the small bowl of sugar and the sieve onto the tray. He straightened up and sat down on the bed with one of his leg folds in front of the tray, diligently he uses the sieves sprinkles powdered sugar onto the dark colored of chocolate cake, making it looked like snows falling onto the ground.

“Torta Tenerina. It’s chocolate.” The bassist expression softens when Kuroko attracted to the cake. He took the cake knife. Carefully he cuts a small piece of the cake and lays it onto the saucer, and then he puts a small fork next to it. “Here. Try it.” He gave it to her.

Her orbs widens at the cake in her hands, she uses the fork to cut a smaller piece of the cake. Mayuzumi watched her ate the cake, a few second later, her eyes opens wide at the delicious taste that melts onto her tongue. “It’s slightly bitter yet sweet…I never tasted anything like this before.” Soft pink tint painted across her cheeks, “It’s delicious, Mayuzumi-san.”

The bassist smiled, “I’m glad. I’m happy with the way it turns out.” He pours a cup of tea for himself. He stands up. The bluenette looked surprised. “Then…did you made this by your own hand?” He looked at her, “Is that so strange?”

She shook her head, “I’m just a little surprised. After all, you really don’t look like you would enjoy cooking or baking” he chuckles. “Believe me, my side hobby is cooking and baking. Hibiki and Nana often bugs me to prepare them homemade bentos whenever we had practices to do.” He sighed; Kuroko didn’t expect that, she let out a giggle.

“Finally, you smiled.” His heart felt lighter hearing her melodious voice rang against his eardrums.  He can understand why Hibiki was desperate to get his sister voice back. It is beautiful. “You looked better that way.” She looked away. Mayuzumi walked towards the glass window, where the moon shines bright in the dark sky.

“Hibiki meant well when he brought you here.” He broke the silentness of the room. “How long have you or Minoru-san known about this…?” he sat down on the couch nearby the window. “For quite a while now.”

He looked at the bluenette from the corner of his eyes, “When we were in Japan, we were there during the Music Festival in your old university. Both Hibiki and me came as observers, so Nana doesn’t know about this until today,” He could see the bluenette shifts uncomfortably. “It wasn’t a pretty sight to see the audiences bashed you that way.”

“When Hibiki bumped into you in L.A, he was surprised that you’ve lost your voice. He went to do a little searching for the reason and he found out why. Trust me; it wasn’t easy to stop him from going back to Japan to beat Akashi to pulp.” He chuckles. He still remembers the time where Hibiki wanted to fly all the way back to Japan even though they just came back from their tour in United Kingdom. It took him everything to stop the guy, perhaps with a couple more punches here and there to snap Hibiki out of it.

“Why would Minoru-san willing to go as far as that for a stranger like me…?”

Mayuzumi looked at her for a few minutes before he looks away, putting the tea cup down. He stood up, “It’s because you’re not a stranger to him. He’s your brother.” Her orbs widens, looking at him, searching for trails of jokes on his stoic expression. He walked towards the door. “If you want to know more, you should ask Kagami. He knows.” With that, he left the room.

“Is that why Minoru-san…”

"If only we could go back the way we are back then…,"

________________________

Kagami puts several piece of money onto the counter, as the bartender thanked him. He walked towards the longue where several guests were seen communicating with some of the hotel staff. It was a little close to 9 pm and Kagami have not spoke to his sister for two whole days ever since she gotten her voice back.

As Kagami was about to make his way towards the elevator, someone bumped into him. “Otto.” The red head knows the familiar language as he looked to his side. His face turns sour when the person bumped into him was none other than Minoru Hibiki who is also known as Kuroko Hibiki. The two went into a glaring contest but Hibiki sighed. “I didn’t come back here in a hurry just to get into a glaring contest from you, ya know.”

“Why did you do it?” Kagami asked, as they went to the indoor garden in the hotel, where they could have some privacy in what they were about to talk. Hibiki sits down as he puts his guitar bag at the side of the bench. “Beats me. I’m just following my instincts.”

The bassist growls, “What if that instinct of yours failed and put Tetsu to shame?! How are you gonna deal with that, huh?!”  He glares at the guitarist. Hibiki sighed. “Then, I will be the devil itself to protect her.” His voice tone changed, cold sea blue orbs sharpened as he looked at Kagami.

The red head turns away, “Why didn’t you let her know who you really are?”

Hibiki chuckles, “So it seems you did a little investigation on me, how sneaky of you regardless, it is up to me whether I want her to know who I am to her. Even if she has forgotten who I was to her, she’s still my baby sister and the only family I have left. ” He stood up as he grabs the bag, he sling it onto his shoulder. “She went through enough for now.” He went towards the exit.

“I wasn’t a good brother when we were younger, so I’ve promised myself, I would do everything within my grasp to make sure she has a good life.” He turns around and smiled, “Besides, I’m truly grateful that you’re always there for her. Thank you, Kagami.”

Kagami felt pang of guilt when he saw the genuine smile the bassist showed him. “I’m no better than you…” he looked at the flowers nearby.

_________________

He was about to make a turn to his room when he heard a door opens next to his room. Kuroko was giving him an unreadable expression. “Shouldn't you be in bed by now, it’s pretty late.” She walked towards him. Kagami felt the vibe from here was a little heavy compare to her usual light and blank vibe.

“Taiga…is Minoru Hibiki my blood brother…?” It was a question that, Kagami truly wants to avoid no matter what, but the look on his beloved sister face shows she looked so lost and confused. “How did you…?” he trails off.

....

Hibiki chuckles, “So it seems you did a little investigation on me, how sneaky of you regardless, it is up to me whether I want her to know who I am to her. Even if she has forgotten who I was to her, she is still my baby sister and the only family I have left. ”

“But I guess it goes the same for you.” He stood up as he grabs the bag, he sling it onto his shoulder. “She went through enough for now.” He went towards the exit.

“I wasn’t a good brother when we were younger, so I’ve promised myself, I would do everything within my grasp to make sure she has a good life.”

He turns around and smiled, “Besides, I’m truly grateful that you’re always there for her. Thank you, Kagami.”

...

Kagami heart clenched as Kuroko waits for his answer, “Yes… he is…Minoru Hibiki is Kuroko Hibiki…your only blood brother.” His throat felt dry.

_______________

The clock ticks painfully in the quiet room, Kagami looked outside the window while Kuroko sat on the chair nearby. The atmosphere felt awkward and weird for the two siblings who are very close to each other.

“Minoru…no, Kuroko Hibiki has spent his entire life searching for you. We first met him in the streets of L.A when you were around 8 years old. You couldn’t remember him, probably from all the stresses and pressure you’ve been having after what happened in your old family…”he looked at his sister.

“Your father, Kuroko Kenji was the one who separates both of you. Since then, he has spent his entire life searching for you until he found us in the streets of L.A when you were still 8 years old. He was the one who…begged Alex to take us under her wings…it was because of him, we’re able to get to where we are now…”

Kuroko tightens her grip onto her dress, “Then, why didn’t he…nii-san…told me of this…when we’re so close to each other now…”Kagami walked towards her as he crouched down and held her small hands in his, he looked at her. “It was because he was disappointed with himself. He felt that he was too weak that he wasn’t able to hold you close to him back then…” he caressed his beloved sister cheeks gently.

“Tetsu, he blamed himself for what has happened to you…you’re the only family he has left…” his heart felt heavy, it broke when he sees pearls of tears fell from the orbs he loves so much.

…

"Beautiful name. I'm Minoru Hibiki. Nice to meet cha"

"You're gonna catch a cold if you don't dry yourself" he helped her drying her long locks.

"Hello to you too, little birdie." He smiled.

His expression softened; "If only we could go back the way we are back then…,"

…

Her lips trembles as more tears fell, “All these while…he has been all alone…while I’ve been living my life…forgotten all about him…I couldn’t imagine the pain he has to suffer watching me from afar...pretending that we were just friends…pretending that he just met me for the first time in his life…”

Kagami hugged her, “It was all because he loves you. I can understand his pain for being weak…unable to protect what’s important to him…”he pulls her away gently as he wiped those tears with his thumb. “Taiga…?”

“No matter what, you are still my sister. I’ll be there to support every decision you make.” His heart clenched painfully. He hugs her once again, “Always.”

Mayuzumi closed the door quietly before he walks away from the room where the two siblings was in. He stops in front of the room where Hibiki is in. “This is all I can do for you and them…the rest is up to her, how she will face this.”

________________________

“We’re very proud of you, Seijuro.” His father and mother stood in front of him as they were preparing to enter the limousine. The bassist forced a smile. “Thank you, father.” Even his voice sounded strained. On his right side is his newly wedded wife, Suzuki Luka who now known as Akashi Luka cling onto his arms, pressing her exposed cleavage to it uncomfortably.

His mother hugged him, “Even though your father’s like that, I’m still so proud and happy to have a son like you, Seijuro.” She kissed him on his forehead lovingly. The younger Akashi returns her hug. His heart felt uneasy. “Please keep doing the things you love doing, no matter what it is. We still loves you and only wants the best for you.”

“Thanks, Mother.”

Akashi stood still to his ground, watching the black limousine belongs to the Akashi family drives away, disappearing from his sight.

‘What is this uneasy feeling…?’

“Seijuro-babe, let’s go in. It’s hot outside here.” The brunette whined as she pulls his arms. Akashi face soured at the presence of his wife. She pulls him back into the hotel, Akashi looked where the limousine was heading, ‘I can only hope it’s just me…’

______________________

Kuroko was closing the door to her room when he heard someone walking towards her, “Good morning, Kuroko-chan!~” he sing sang her name as he smiled. The bluenette stopped abruptly.

…

“Yes… he is…Minoru Hibiki is Kuroko Hibiki…your only blood brother.”

“Tetsu, he blamed himself for what has happened to you…you’re the only family he has left…”

…

She quickly plastered a warm gentle smile, she bowed, “Good morning Minoru-san.” The guitarist sighed as he frowned. “Kuroko-chan, please stop bowing whenever you see me. I don’t like it. We’re friends remember? And friends don’t bow to each other like that.” He straightened the bluenette back. “There, that’s better.” He grins. Kuroko giggles at his antics.

“I see that you’re feeling better now.” He looked at her. She nodded. “Yes, I am. I’m sorry for worrying you and everyone else.” She bows again, completely forgotten about what he said earlier. Hibiki shoulder fell. “Kuroko-chan. What did I just said?” he glares at her as he eye leveled to her. She sweat dropped.

“You’re hopeless, Kuroko-chan.” He straightened his back. “Come now; let’s go get some breakfast. I’m famished!” he pull the pianist wrist, and dragged her along to get the breakfast he wanted. “But, Taiga, we need to let him know first”

Hibiki hummed, “Mhmm, I’ll send him a text. Of course, he would have my head when we gets back but let us worry about that later, alright? For now, let’s find somewhere nice to eat.” The guitarist pulls out a sun hat from his bag pack and puts it onto the pianist head. He smiled, “Perfect. That way, people won’t notice you.” He grins. He was already on his usual disguise set, his sunglasses and a black hat. He made sure he didn’t let go off his sister hands.

________________________

“Oi, Mayuzumi. Have you seen Tetsu?” Kagami barged into the bassist room. Mayuzumi was attending to his guitar when the other bassist came in, “Hibiki brought her out for breakfast. They didn’t say where, though.”

Kagami growls, “That idiot.” The other bassist stood up as he puts his guitar properly into his bag. “You worry too much. I’m sure you of all people would know that Hibiki will never let anything bad happens to your sister.” He spoke without looking at the red head. That reminds Kagami, “There’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you. I saw you went out of my sister room yesterday. Were you the one who told her…” he stopped abruptly, hesitated to continue.

“About Hibiki is her brother?” Mayuzumi continues for him.

Kagami glared at him. “Yes, I did tell her about it. Well…part of it.” He walks towards the door, bringing his guitar bag along with him. “I’ve watched Hibiki struggles to put a strong front all these years, he found his sister but at the same time he couldn’t tell her, who he was to her. I figured its time she knows. Everyone deserves some happiness, Kagami.”

The grey head looked at Kagami, “Well, see you later.” He left the room.

“And that’s everything I ever wanted for her…”

______________________

“Here we are!” The two of them finally reached the café, Hibiki wanted to go. It was 20 minutes walk from the hotel. The weather wasn’t as hot as any other day so it was alright to walk for that long without sweating. Even with his disguise on, he seems to attract the people around him. “Come come, Kuroko-chan. Order anything you want, my treat.” He drags her towards the counter as more girls in the café looked at him.

“Uhm…Minoru-san…” she tugged his jacket. Hibiki hummed as his eyes looked at the menu. “Is it really okay for you to be out here in the public?” she felt uncomfortable at the gaze of others. She moved closer to him. “Mhmm, just my manager says I should put a disguise on whenever I leave the agency or the house. Hmmm…what do you want, Kuroko-chan?” he looked at the menu a little closer. The price was not a problem for him.

“Vanilla milkshake, please.” She answered. She felt a little awkward having Hibiki paying for her. After they got what they wanted, she followed the guitarist to the nearby park. The park was cool and there was very few people there, so less unwanted attention.

They sat underneath a tree; Hibiki sipped his coffee while stuffing a sandwich into his mouth as his hands diligently scribbles something on his notepad. He hummed a tune as his eyes focused on the notepad. Kuroko took several glances at him, curious at what he’s doing. He noticed the curious sister of his. He smiled. “Wanna help me out, Kuroko-chan?” he lifts his notepad as she blinks. It’s actually music sheets piled into a book.

“I’m trying to compose a new song for the band but I can’t really come up with anything good.” He sighed. He leans against the tree. “Nee, Kuroko-chan. Have you ever thought of coming back to the music world?”

She looked at him, “No…I haven’t…even if I decided, and I probably wouldn't know what I should do.”  Hibiki closes his eyes, “That’s true…well I guess it takes time to decide on this kind of things.” Kuroko looked at her vanilla milkshake. It is true, even though she has gotten her voice back, even though the world now know who HEAVEN is, it still takes a lot of will to sing or compose once again.

“Kuroko-chan…no matter what your decision is or path you picked …you have us and Kagami to support you all the way…”he trails off; he was dozing off as his head began to loll to the side.

…

“No matter what, you are still my sister. I’ll be there to support every decision you make.”

…

She looked at Hibiki who is now sound asleep, “Both Taiga and Hibiki are my brothers and my family, I couldn’t thank them enough to have always been supportive, and there for me…even when I couldn’t remember you…” she puts a jacket onto the guitarist. “Thank you, Hibiki Nii-sama…,” she whispered, and then she grabbed the notepad and pencil Hibiki was holding.

______________________

Hibiki rubbed his eyes groggily. “Sorry, Kuroko-chan, I fell asle—“he looked to his side. He chuckles; “I guess the weather is just too good not to sleep, huh?” his expression softens at the sight of his beloved sister, sleeping soundly leaning against his shoulder.

Then he felt something in his hands, “Hmm, what’s this?” it was his music sheet book. He took a closer look at it when he noticed it was not his handwriting. “This is…” his sea blue orbs widens. “It’s what I’ve been looking for…” he looked at his sister, he leans forward as he kissed her forehead. “It’s perfect, Tsuki-chan. Thank you.” The bluenette sleeps comfortably even at his gentle touch on her forehead.

______________________

Akashi turns off the as he rested his head against the couch. He lets out a sigh. His ring hand especially his ring finger felt uncomfortably heavy. He looked at the gold ring occupying his ring finger.

.

.

"We're leaving. NOW." Akashi heard several voices protested to whoever that wants to leave the place in a hurry. However, he didn’t think it would be them. His foot froze to the ground when he saw a familiar bluenette. “Tetsuki…” His former fiancée.

“Give a round of applause to Kuroko Tetsuki who is also known as HEAVEN." Akashi hetero orbs widens as he turns around, looking where Kuroko seated then to Suzuki, he glares at her. Round of whispers began to spread across the hall. His orbs follow the slim figure of his former fiancée who went up to the stage.

He saw Kuroko was looking at him from the stage and then quickly looked away. He felt hurt but at the same time, he knows he doesn’t have the right to feel so, since he was the one who hurt her the most.

"The faint scent of tears on my rain-soaked cheeks..." her melodious voice resonates throughout the hall.”

The music from our childhood faintly echoes in the background..." The melody alone felt like a message being conveyed to him. "The memories that I hopelessly try to remember wander aimlessly…"

"You light up the way for me in the darkness of night…the gentle look on your face…"

"I want to see you..."

.

.

His hetero orbs sadden. ‘I want to see you too…’ He didn't notice Luka has been watching him from the door as she frowned. “As long as that blue haired witch is still alive, I can never get Seijuro to look at me only. I have to find a way to get rid of her.” She bit her lower lip, and then she heard someone was running towards the hallway, she quickly hid in the nearby room.

“Seijuro-sama!” his ever so loyal butler ran into the room without knocking or remembering any etiquette towards his master. The middle age butler pants lightly, “It’s your parents! The limousine they are in has crashed into a trailer. They’re in critical conditions.”

The younger Akashi orbs widens as the coffee cup he was holding fell onto the carpet. “Where are they?!” he demands. “They’re in the Lenox Hill Hospital, thirty minutes drive from here.” Akashi grabbed his coat and began making his way towards the door, oblivious that it was all a sham. “Get me there, now!”

“Right away, sir.” His driver has been waiting for his young master to rush out of the hotel as he immediately drove off after several words exchanged with the young master butler. The 30 minutes drive to the hospital was the longest for Akashi.

“I’m the son of Akashi Seito and Akashi Kaori, I was informed my parents have been rushed to this hospital!” he slammed his hands onto the counter where the nurses were looking into the details on the computer.

“Young Master, you’re finally here!” the butler that serves his parents came rushed to the younger Akashi. “Where’s my parents?!” he demands. “They’re still in the emergency room. We haven’t got any word from the doctors of how they are doing now.” He explained. Akashi stopped in front of the emergency room where his parents are in; nurses were seen rushing in and out with bloodied towels and equipments.

His hands and lips trembles, his hetero orbs were wide in fear. He shut close his eyes, ‘Please, don’t take them from me!’ he has lost his friends, he has lost Kuroko and he wouldn’t be able to bear it if he lost his parents.

The door from the emergency room slides open, Akashi quickly rushed to the doctor and the nurses. “How are they? How is my parents?!” he roared. The doctor didn’t do anything to calm him down. “I’m sorry…we did what we can but…” he trails off.

“BUT WHAT?!” Akashi grabs the doctor collars. His butler tries to pull the younger Akashi away. “Please, calm down, young master.”

“We couldn't save them in time…”

It was as if all life has been drain out of him. The doctor words echoes in his ears. He lets go of the doctor collars as he wobbles to the nearest wall. His orbs are wide open. He didn’t even blink.

He couldn't think.

He couldn’t feel anything.

He couldn’t hear anything…

His tears fell; he wobbles towards the door of the emergency room. The doctor didn't stopped him, instead the nurses opens the door for the young man. His heart nearly stops beating; when he saw, the lifeless bodies of his parents covered by white sheet. He drags himself towards where they are.

…

 “Even though your father’s like that, I’m still so proud and happy to have a son like you, Seijuro.” She kissed him on his forehead lovingly. The younger Akashi returns her hug. His heart felt uneasy. 

“Please keep doing the things you love doing, no matter what it is. We still love you and only want the best for you.”

“We’re very proud of you, Seijuro.”

…

He knelt near to his mother body as he breaks down, “Mother...Father…”  From the door, his butlers watched their young master cried his heart out. They felt sad for the boy whom they have raised since he was a child.

They knew the younger Akashi is a very obedient and loyal young man towards his parents no matter what decision or path they decided for them. They knew Akashi loves his parents very much, no matter how much hatred he harbors for their recent decision in his life. The worst thing a child could ever face was to have his parents’ dies during their conflict.

____________________

“Young Master…” his loyal butler, Tanaka gently shook him by his shoulder. However, his young master shows no sign of reactions, instead the boy just kept his head down and will not let go off his mothers frozen cold hands. Tanaka looked at the other butler and shook his head. He puts his butler coat onto the young man, fearing he would catch a cold from the coldness off the floor.

“Please inform the chauffeur to standby somewhere near, until then we all shall wait for Young Master Seijuro. Any requests to contact the young master from the company will be put on hold; he doesn’t need all these at the moment...” He looked at his young master.

_______________

Kise was about to knock on the door of the V.I.P suit of his old friend, Akashi Seijuro but was immediately stopped when one of the Akashi’s family butler opens it in a rush with several black luggage bags. “Kise-sama, what brings you here?” he asked.

“Ah, I wanted to talk to Akashi-chii for a little. Is he in?” his eyes looked at the bags. The butler face turns into a frown. “I’m afraid not, Kise-sama. He is currently in Lenox Hill Hospital.” The blonde frowned. “Did something happen to him?”

“No, it’s his parents. They just passed away in a car crash near the airport three hours ago… the head butler; Tanaka-sama wants us to remove Young Masters’ belongings from this hotel to the Akashi’s mansion right away. Kise-sama, if you would excuse me, I must hurry.” The butler gave a small bow to the blonde keyboardist and hurriedly locked the door to the suit and left.

Kise quickly ran to where Aomine suit is and knocked on the door none stop, “Aomine-chii! Open the door! Hurry!” The door is finally open, Aomine groggily yawned in annoyance. “What is it, Kise?!  Quit shouting.” 

“It’s Akashi-chii!” The guitarist midnight orbs wide open. In a hurry, he grabs his coat and hat; he quickly left with the other three.

_________________________

“Akashi/Akashi-chii/Akashi-kun/Aka-chin,” They call out to their red head friend who is now slouching on the hospital bench. He looked terrible. The red head bassist looked up to the source of the voices, “Why are you here…?” his voice trembles.

Satsuki was the first one to hug him. It was not her usual bone-crushing hug but it was gentle and careful. “We heard what happened to your parents…and though you’d need shoulders to lean on. “ The pinknette explained. She felt sad for the bassist. He looked completely lost and defeated.

“Akashi, we know we weren’t being good friends to you past few months but if you need shoulders to cry and lean on…we’re there for you. Ah, what am I saying?! We’re still friends, alright? No matter what you do, you’re still our lead singer and the gang can’t move forward if our lead singer is missing somewhere.”

Kise nodded, “We’re still a team no matter where we are. Only Akashi-chii can lead us.”Aomine stepped closer, “So if you wanna cry, just cry. No one will think less of you.” The giant of the band, Murasakibara crouched down, “Aka-chin is after all only a human like any of us~~”

Akashi heart was falling apart; his tears once again slowly fell as he cried in the arms of his friends, whom he thought has already left him alone. The Akashi they knew, would never cry but now they know even THE Akashi Seijuro can shed the tears of sorrow when his heart is crying.

The butlers were glad that their young master has such wonderful friends as they watched the friendship among them grew stronger than ever.

________________________

Kuroko wanted to head to Mayuzumi room to give him a pack of peppermint chocolates as a thank you gift until she overheard something from her brother, Hibiki room. She eavesdropped, to listen to the news clearer.

“The CEOs of the Japan largest business company, Akashi Seito and his wife, Akashi Kaori has recently passed away in an accident in New York, America. The limousine their chauffeur drove to the airport crashed into a trailer, causing the deaths of three. Now the sole heir to the company, Akashi Seijuro who is also the bandleader of the renowned Generation of Miracles, will make an announcement in a week in regards to the takeover of the business.”

The door sudden opens up; Kuroko nearly fell down if the guitarist didn’t catch her in time. “What are you doing in front of the door, Kuroko-chan? It’s dangerous.” He helped her up. He noticed the frowns on her face, looking worried at something. “Kuroko-chan…what’s wrong?”

“The funeral service for Akashi Seito and Akashi Kaori will be held in Kyoto, Japan in three days.” he followed her line of sight.

“Ah, that. So you overheard the news.” He sighed. For some reason, his sister looked really small and tiny now. Her usually blank face shows worry.”Say, Kuroko-chan, want to follow us back to Japan. We’re gonna have our next live there in Tokyo, it would be nice if you could attend it.” Kagami was walking down the hallway when he saw Kuroko standing in front of Hibiki’s room, looking sad and down. Feeling worried, he marched towards the two as he was prepared to rip the guitarist into half if he hurts Kuroko.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, as his overprotective mode turns active. Hibiki looked at him worried, “Well…” his hands shows where the flat screen TV is broadcasting the news he heard downstairs at the lobby. Kagami frowned. Hibiki whispered to him, “You wouldn’t mind if we go back to Japan for a while, do you? I know you guys just came back here but…” he looked at Kuroko.

Kagami have sworn he would never step a foot onto Japan but seeing Kuroko like that made him swayed. “No, I don’t mind, as long as I can tag along.”

“Right, I’ll get the manager to prepare tickets for us immediately. Our next live is in Tokyo in two weeks, it’s a good change for her to send her condolence to him. Let’s leave for L.A in a few hours; I’ll inform Nana-chan and Chihiro.” Kagami nodded.

“Tetsu.” He approached his sister. Kuroko looked at him. “We’re going back to Japan.” He noticed the unreadable expression on her face.

Later that day, all of them went back to Los Angeles. Kagami did the explanations to Alex and then went to pack their belongings as the EUTERPE band members has already waiting for them at Los Angeles airport for their flight to Japan. Hibiki has already explained to the other two who immediately understood the situation. To them, Kuroko is their friend and they’re willing to do anything within their reach to see things through for her.

“Kuroko-chan!!!!!!” Nana dashed towards the bluenette the moment she saw the duo exits the cab at the entrance of the airport. Chihiro and Hibiki followed suit as they greeted Kagami. After confirming payments and what not for their flights, they went onto the plane.

_____________________

Akashi watched the people passing by as they gave their respects to his deceased parents. The Akashi family loyal staffs stood at the side, waiting for any demands, requests or any orders their young master going to give. Which he hasn’t, he never gave out any orders or requests ever since he returns from New York. His only request was “Make sure my parents gets proper burial, no matter what’s the expenses is.” His loyal butlers and company assistants made sure it was see through until the end.

“Do you think Akashi-kun would be alright after all these?” Satsuki looked at the red head from afar. The other three of the band members exchanged looks. “Only God knows. We can only be there for him whenever he needs us.” Aomine worried for his friend health. Akashi looked a lot paler than usual.

Then they heard murmurs among those who attend the funeral service. Aomine noticed notice a familiar bassist and pianist who left Japan not long ago, followed by the members of the band EUTERPE. “Long time no see, bud” He greeted the bassist. Kagami smiled, “Yeah it has, and we didn’t get the chance to greet each other at Akashi’s wedding.”

“Don’t worry about it, things been hectic lately.” Aomine casted his gaze to the funeral house where Akashi is. Kagami understood what he was saying. Satsuki hugged the bassist sister, “Kuroko-chan, it’s been such a long time! I saw you at the dinner but you left too soon!” she whined. Kuroko smiled apologetically, “I’m sorry, Momoi-san. I wished I could talk to you a little more but…”

The pinknette smiled, “Don’t worry; we’ll talk when we have time. For now, I’m glad that you came.” The bluenette nodded.

“Akashi-kun…”

A voice broke his train of thoughts, he noticed someone standing at his right side. His hetero orbs travels from bottom to top of the person, “Tetsuki…what are you doing here?” Kagami approached them and stood beside the bluenette.

“I heard what happened…my condolence to you and your whole family, Akashi-kun.” Her orbs sadden. Akashi felt pangs of guilt, “Even after what I’ve done to you…” he trails off; he couldn’t find his voice or courage to continue. Kuroko shook her head. “That is in the past, what’s done has been done. Now, we’re here and no matter what I’m still your friend, Akashi-kun.” She smiled at him.

“I’m sorry…I’m truly sorry, Tetsuki…” he hung his head low. He was ashamed of himself.

“It’s alright, Akashi-kun.”

_________________

“Aomine, am I right?” Hibiki approached the group that was standing under the tree shade. Aomine nodded, as a guitarist, he knows the jet-black haired guitarist all too well. “Wanna do something for Akashi?”

All four of them quickly gather around the guitarist.

____________________

Six days later, The Tokyo Dome are open for public as it was the day where EUTERPE, one of the few top Japanese band made their way  to the top will be performing their next live concert in that renowned dome for the 2nd time. Hibiki and the others were busy with preparations and what not; however, they insisted they have time to eat together with the bluenette and the bassist of Seirin in their apartment that was 20 minutes away from the Dome.

“Man, how I wished I can cook like Kagami. Nee, Chihiro?” the guitarist cleared all the foods on his plate within minutes.  The EUTERPE bassist calmly ate his share, “If you weren’t so lazy, you would be able to cook like him instead of bugging me to prepare homemade bentos each time we have practices.”

“Sharing is caring! Isn’t that right, Kuroko-chan?” he grins. “Hibiki-chan’s right, sharing is caring!” Nana hugged the girl, pressing their cheeks together. The bluenette smiled. It has been such a long time since the apartment been so lively.

An hour later, Kagami and Kuroko was seeing them off when Hibiki pulls out something from his bag pack. “Kuroko-chan, please wear this later.” A blue present box handed to her. He smiled. “I’ll see you two later, be sure you get there in time and make sure you use that dress, Kuroko-chan!” he waved them a bye before running off with the other two musician.

Kuroko blinks at the box as her head tilted adorably.

______________________

“EVERYONE, WELCOME TO EUTERPE 2nd LIVE PERFORMANCE IN TOKYO DOME!” Nana voice rang throughout the enormous dome. Fans screaming their heads off, “ARE YOU READY FOR THE PERFORMANCE OF THE DECADE?!” The whole dome were completely full, the stage lights brightens the dome. All three members of the renowned band, EUTERPE are on stage with their instruments and microphones.

The lights slowly turn dim, “They sound out strongly, the youthful memories that have gone, something ends, and we feel a beginning, in the cold rain…” she trails off.

On cue, the stage brightens as the drums and bassist began their part as Hibiki began singing, “Feel several different futures, before they turn pure white, make a little chance! Start spinning us out into tomorrow, ready and go! 

Nana stepped forward with her mic, “Several things are heaped up, and that I want to ascertain myself of disagreeing on negotiations that can't end,” her voice was steady and melodious despite the theme they’re using are heavy metal.

Kagami and Kuroko finally reached the Dome; they were late by 5 minutes by the EUTERPE manager were there to get them into the backstage as promised by Hibiki. “You can watch them from here.” She said. Kuroko nodded as she looked from the entrance of the backstage where she can see them performing up close.

“Now, fate can't reach into the far away sky, but I want to sever off those kinds of things, to where you are,” Nana rose her arms into the sky. One thing the EUTERPE never lacked was their passion for music and it shows completely on stage through their songs and performance each time they performed no matter where.

However, it was the first time Kuroko watched her brother performed up close. She never expected one day she would came to know that her only blood brother is one of the renowned musicians.

___________________

His face soured when they reached the Tokyo Dome. Aomine and Kise sweat dropped. “Well…we got the tickets and all, might as well bring you along. Besides, take this as a breather. Ya know from everything.” Aomine explained as Kise parked the car nearby. Akashi glared at them as he sighed, “You got a point. Seems the live has begun, let’s go.” He left the car, followed by the other two. Satsuki and Murasakibara were already waiting for them at the entrance as the two waved at them.

_____________________

“Kuroko-chan, are you ready?” Nana asked when the performance went on a 2 minutes break. Kuroko tilted her head as her large sapphire orbs blinks. “For what…?” Nana looked surprise at the question. “To perform, silly! You’re up next with Hibiki-chan!” her orbs grew larger as she gaped like a fish, trying to accept the new information.

Hibiki walked towards the group as he wiped off the sweats, “Surprise, surprise, Kuroko-chan.” He grins until a knuckle landed on his head. “YOU IDIOT! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU THINKING?! YOU CAN’T SEND TETSU OUT THERE WITHOUT PREPARATION!” Kagami growled. Hibiki lets out crocodile tears as he held his head.

“EH…But she didn’t need it. “He answered as he rubbed his boo boo. Kagami frowned, “Why not?” The guitarist straightened up, “It’s because she’s the one who wrote the song.” He looked at Kuroko with all seriousness. It was then Kuroko remembers the song she composed at the park while her brother was asleep. She still remembers each detail and note for the song.

“Kuroko-chan wasn’t name as a genius composer for nothing. I know she still remembers the song just like it was composed a few minutes ago.” His tone was not like his usual tone. “The HEAVEN that the world knows is a great musician and will not back down when she must perform.” He smiled warmly.

“Besides, you will never disappoint those around you. That’s the Kuroko-chan I know.”

Kuroko hesitated but after a little while, she nodded. “I’ll be in your care. I will do my best to reach your expectations, Minoru-san.” She bows. Everyone smiled.

“EVERYONE, TODAY WE HAVE A SPECIAL GUEST FOR YOU!” Nana announced as the stage lighted dimly. The fans exchanged looks, confused, as this was never been announced beforehand or in the program list. “LET US GIVE WAY TO HEAVEN and MINORU HIBIKI!”

Kuroko took a deep breath the moment Nana announced her stage name. Hibiki is already on stage however, this time is not with his usual electric guitar, in his arms straps an acoustic guitar. “Go on, Kuroko-chan and good luck!” Nana gave her a supporting pat on her back as the bluenette nodded.

A soft tap on the acoustic guitar marks the start of the duet performance. Hibiki played the guitar as he sat on a high stool, near him stood his sister, Kuroko Tetsuki who is also known as HEAVEN.

“With the setting sun behind me on our way home, I'd walk a little distance behind you, you are tall, and so to match with your pace, my steps would always get a little bigger…” her melodious resonates throughout the dome.

…

'Who are you…?"

"Then, let's make a promise, that only I can sing your songs" 

"It's a promise!" 

…

Akashi stood froze when he saw her on the stage. His hetero orbs widen. For some reason his heart felt much lighter than before. Her sapphire orbs begging to gain its old shine as she continues to sing, “Once we've climbed to the top of this slope that would be when we have to part”

…

"I'm sorry for not looking where I was walking" She gave a slight bow.

"It's because, the songs I made are especially for you!" his orbs widened.

"Tetsuki, I want you to know that I want to sing your songs, no matter what! We have promised!"

…

“I fell in love with that simple happiness; even now those days remain a gentle memory in me, if I'd just turn back, your hand would be right there for me, even now I still feel that way” When she looked at the audiences, she noticed someone was looking at her. With the look that was only for her.

“Before I realized it you were the only thing in my vision, as long as you were with me I was able to smile,” Her orbs softens, she smiled only to him. Kagami follows the line of sight of his sister as he furrowed. “You guys planned this, didn’t you?” He looked at Chihiro who was leaning against the wall, listening to Kuroko melodious voice. He smiled, “Perhaps but it’s all on Hibiki. He’s the one who begs the President to let Kuroko perform on stage today.”

“Your heartbeats I felt from your fingers touching mine, all of that was so dear to me,” She closes her eyes, her heart felt content.

‘I don’t want these feelings to disappear. They are mine and mine alone…’

…

"Tetsuki is no peasant; in fact she is better than you are. I will not choose anyone else other than her, we've promis—"

"It's…not…like …you…to…cry…" she wiped his tears away.

"I'm Tetsuki, nice to meet you!"

…

“At our parting point, we'd let go of the other's fingers, turn our backs toward each other and walk our own ways” it was then he realized, the song was Kuroko’s hidden message. Her true feelings came from her heart.

…

"There is no but. It's as simple as the band does not need you any longer."

"Let me go!" she tries to shook his grip off but he held it tighter.

"I would have a better life if I hadn't met you! Why the hell someone like you, turns my life like this?!" her voice shook as more tears fell.

"There is nothing impossible in this world, even to love one another…but Tetsuki…I can tell you this…there's no one in this world that I could ever love more than I love you…"

….

“When I close my eyes, I see myself from my young days, searching for someone…” she sang the last verse of the message as Hibiki continues playing his part as the song slowly ended.

The whole dome was deathly silent; everyone was awed by the simple yet beautiful performance. Kagami began clapping, and then Chihiro and Nana followed by, slowly one by one of the audiences clapped, and cheered at her. Hibiki smiled warmly at her as he walked towards her, he held her shoulder. Tears of joy fell.

She never knew singing would be fulfilling. She felt as if heavy weights have been lifted from her heart. She looked at the audiences, “Thank you, everyone!” she waved at them as more tears fell. She looked at a certain audience standing opposite her; she smiled at him as her orbs sent him a silent message – Thank you for coming, Sei.

_______________________

Akashi returns to his apartment in Tokyo, he looked around at his empty apartment. It has been a while since he stepped into this cold and lonely apartment. He felt somewhat nostalgic. He looked outside the window where darkness has crept upon the sky.

…

“Please keep doing the things you love doing, no matter what it is. We still love you and only want the best for you.”

“We’re there for you. Ah, what am I saying?! We’re still friends alright?”

“So if you wanna cry, just cry. No one will think less of you.”

“That is in the past, what’s done has been done. Now, we’re here and no matter what I’m still your friend, Akashi-kun.”

…

He looked at the gold ring on his ring finger; swiftly he pulls the ring and throws it into the nearby bin. “I’m sorry Father, Mother but I’m going to make my own decision from now on.”

_______________

The next morning was a bad day for a certain brunette when one of the Akashi’s family butler were sent to the Akashi manor in Kyoto where she was staying, delivering a message to her –

Suzuki Luka, you are to move out of the Akashi manor immediately or else I will sue you for trespassing a private property.

P.S – You are no longer my wife.

Luka screamed her lungs off at frustrations, she went around the manor and found her luggage has been packed and now at the entrance of the manor in her family chauffeur. She quickly called the red head. “Seijuro, there must be a mistake! You can’t divorce and kick me out!” she whined into the phone. She heard a chuckle.

“There is no mistake, Suzuki-san. In fact, the only mistake I ever took and followed was by marrying you. So please leave the manor immediately, as of now everything in the Akashi’s family ever owned are now belong to me, including the manor. Have a good day, Suzuki-san.” The call ended. The brunette looked at the phone as if she just saw a ghost. She gritted her teeth.

“It’s all that blue haired witch fault! How dare she take what belongs to mine! She’ll pay for this!”

_____________________

Kagami frowned the moment he opens the door of his apartment. Hibiki grins like nobody business, in his hands is carrying several plastic bags filled with gifts from the RENEGADE agency for a certain bluenette. “Where’s Kuroko-chan?” he let himself in. Kagami sighed as he closes the door, “In her room.”

“I see, I see. Then I should wake her up.” He hummed happily, as he marched towards the said room. He opens the door and peeked inside, “Kuroko-chan, wakey wakey, it’s time to…TSUKI-CHAN!” His orbs wide open as the door slammed open. He rushed towards the unmoving body on the floor; he turns pale when he couldn’t feel any pulse from his sister. Kagami who was in the kitchen heard the commotion, rushed to the room but immediately froze at the door, “KAGAMI, CALL THE AMBULANCE! HURRY!” the guitarist shouted.

The red head grabs his phone while Hibiki tries his best to wake the unconscious bluenette.

“TSUKI-CHAN!! TSUKI-CHAN! !!”

_______________________________________

Owh yeah, now you guys gonna kill me. I told you didnt I? This is the longest chapter I've wrote in Fate & Destiny and yes since it was done a few minutes ago, do pardon me for my grammars and spelling errors. Other than that, do enjoy reading and please please , review! IT means a lot to me! <3

Song Used in this chapter - Enrai Tooku ni Aru Agari by High and Mighty Color
Song That Kuroko Sang - yuuhi saka by ChouChou (Please check in the multimedia video) 

The dress that Hibiki asked Kuroko to wear is in the multimedia picture as well. 

*Gives Tissues* 

 Until next update~