500 The Systems History: The promise end II (1/2)

The next second, Aki heard a cracking sound of metal until it crashed to the concrete ground. Tora's sword broke just right after it injured his arm a little, instead of cutting his arm off forever.

”You...” Slowly, Aki whispered as the corner of his eyes had tears that instantly fell. Before he thrust his sword to her, Tora knew that he was bluffing and yet, she took the bait and let herself be killed.

”Tora!” As Tora feel the striking pain that pierced through her body, she gasped for air as every second, blood gushed out from her wound as she coughed.

She felt coldness seeped through her bones as her vision shook. Still, she saw him approach her with tears falling from his eyes until her body lost its balance. Fortunately, Aki was there to catch her slowly dying body.

”Why... you...” Holding on her as gently as possible while trying not to touch his sword that was on her, Aki bit his lower lips as he looked at her pale face.

”How could you...” His voice cracked as he watched her weakly chuckled.

”How insulting. I got killed by a mere inexperienced man.” Tora murmured as her tone sounded as if she was insulting him until the end.

Regardless, Aki ignored her insults as he held her in his arms until he heard the loud sound of drum, indicating that Tora's reign was over. He heard the loud roared around grew louder as his troops' morale grew stronger.

However, although earlier he hated Tora for what she had done, his heart ached. He was certain that he would not shed a tear if he slew her, but now, he was tearing like a child.

He could not understand why she let him kill her, just like that. She could have blocked his attack just like how she easily blocked all his attacks. But she didn't. Moreover, it seemed she was glad to take that blow as the subtle smile that appeared on her was relief and calm.

Just what was she thinking?

Was this to show him that he would never win against her? Thus, she deliberately made him win? Just like how she reduced her strength in the past for them to have a draw?

Was this her way of mocking him? Or did she already planned this?

”Tora, answer me, why?! You can block my attack, but you didn't! You know I am bluffing, but you took the bait!” Through his gritted teeth, Aki roared as his grip on her shoulders tightened and his eyes produced unstoppable tears.

Tora only responded with a chuckle and whispered, ”Fool,” while raising her hand to reach his face. Alas, even before she could touch his cheek once again, Tora's hand lost its strength before it fell.

”We are foolish...” These were the last words that escaped her mouth. 'My love…'