[ Subaru remains at the foot of the tree while Caelus ascends it for what he needs, tracing the corruption in the branches, the sooted lung-like fibers of its reach. He can tell that the trailblazer is minding his steps, maybe for both the tree's sake and his own. He entertains laying his palm upon its trunk to see what permeates the rings of its age, but decides against it. Which is just as well when Caelus drops back down, graceful and sure in his landing. ]
Thank you. [ Subaru takes the branches, weighing them in his hands. ] These will work fine.
[ Branches in one hand, he extends the other, indicating the pocket knife. ]
[ A light smile. Of course. Caelus turns the pocket knife around so it's safe when he hands it over. He places the handle on Subaru's palm gently, the blade facing away.
He wonders what the onmyoji intends to do with the branches, but he supposes he'll see it now. Thinking about it, some of Subaru's arts remind Caelus of some friends of his from Xianzhou, particularly Hanya, who also works with ink and paper on her spells. ]
[ Subaru accepts the blade just as gratefully as Caelus is careful in handing it to him. Tucking one of the branches beneath his arm, he indicates that they can begin the walk back to the trailer. On the way, he gently whittles the end of the branch in his grasp. Beneath the strange shade and texture of the bark, the wood is remarkably normal.
White making a notch with the edge of the knife, Subaru's brows draw upwards in curiosity. ]
My work is similar. I'm an onmyouji. [ He pauses his knifework, steps slow. ] How do you know that?
[ Oh, another word Caelus doesn't know. He looks a little confused as they walk together again, retracing their steps back to the trailer. But his curiosity is evident about it, as well as the handiwork that Subaru is performing on the branch.
He lets out a quiet, amused laugh when he appears to have made an… almost correct guess? So it's not exactly an exorcist, though maybe it has overlapping roles? ]
I have a few friends who are exorcists, I met them through my travels in my universe. Some of the gestures you do sometimes remind me of them. You all have a very certain way of holding paper, for instance…
I see. [ So, Caelus noticed something familiar in how he creates and wields talismans. He swaps the prepared branch for the one tucked under his arm, moving slow and thoughtful, with purpose. It's not exactly hesitation, but more a natural deliberation on what words to choose, how to bring this vast part of himself to light. ] With how traveled you are, it stands to reason that you'd meet others in my trade.
[ Finishing the other branch, he clicks the pocket knife shut and offers it back to Caelus. ]
Exorcisms are one area of my work. Onmyoudo itself is a large school of magic that spans back hundreds of years in my home country. I can perform divinations, protection rituals, blessings... things of that nature.
[ Or — he could, before this. Working with runes hasn't been entirely dissimilar though. Comparatively, he's taken to Sleep's magic incredibly fast. ]
[ Accepting the item back, Caelus slides it back into his bag as he continues to walk alongside Subaru, listening to every word attentively. He's impressed after hearing the explanation, knowing this must be why his precious friend has such a disciplined mannerism. ]
That's amazing. That makes sense why you can perform the ceremony for the trailer.
[ Wait… ]
Hm? I thought we all lost our powers, coming here. Did you retain yours?
No, I didn't. [ He confirms. There's an undercurrent of conflict to those simple words, but he remains steady in spite of it. He holds his palm out in front of him, elegant fingers curled just so. ] This magic isn't my own.
[ Subaru is never the first to espouse his abilities. But with everything that Caelus has given to him, his unerring warmth and his deep-seated secrets pressed into the contours of his hands, he thinks he can explain without regret. ]
In many ways, onmyoudo is a magic of translation. Onmyouji translate energy, elements, the stars. I feel that whatever powers I gained by coming here are similar. There's a language I instinctively know, even if it's not complete. It's how I've been able to teach myself similar techniques.
[ A flicker of concern hits Caelus when he feels that momentary conflict. Did he accidentally say something he shouldn't have…? This is why he wanted to navigate carefully around Subaru, on wanting to be patient in getting to know him. After all, he's sensed a lonely aura from him before… A wounded soul that he's come to know, that he's so determined to heal, even through the smallest ways. Thankfully, Caelus didn't seem to need to worry too much, as Subaru shares his words with enough stability and calm.
Relief soon hits Caelus with that realization, so he's able to listen to everything without feeling guilty about it. In fact, he's honored to hear everything now, because it means Subaru decided to tell him despite whatever weighs him down about it. He takes every word to heart. ]
I understand. That's quite a coincidence, then.
[ Is it a good or bad thing? Caelus doesn't know, but it'll at least allow Subaru to adjust much better. So he can protect himself and others better. ]
What I received confounds me a little. I'm not sure what exactly it is, even now. Though I've begun to notice several things about it at least, unlike the last time I mentioned the topic to you.
[ Caelus is so careful around him. He feels it pulsing, aware, alive. As if the trailblazer is mapping him like his namesake constellation, as if he's capable of seeing its seventh star. That is the nature of connection to others, to lay fault lines bare knowing one could break open at any provocation, exposing the raw nerves aching beneath. That is the nature of tethers. But Caelus navigates them with such a reactive softness...
It's been difficult to remain on his guard. ]
You did mention that. How you weren't sure what was going to awaken in you. [ Briefly, he remembers the hue of his eyes. Like direct sunlight glowing off metal. It was so striking. ] Has something changed for you?
[ Though Caelus is being so gentle in approaching, there's also an irrefutable desire lingering in that tether to break through and hurriedly make his way to Subaru. But it's very subdued compared to his larger intent to remain patient. He knows to take his time, as acting selfishly will never lead him to true understanding with a person.
In fact, it may even cause the opposite effects that he wanted… The mere idea of that is heartbreaking. So he'll wait, no matter how long. He smiles a little when he proceeds to explain his findings, wanting to continue the good mood of their gentle conversation. ]
I don't know if anything changed specifically, but some strange things happened. There was a time I was looking through the luggage trolleys for hauling my scavenged items, then they started moving on their own for a minute! I almost thought the hotel was haunted.
Another time was when I was repairing devices. Some of the devices actually powered on for a split second, and I was so shocked. They don't have a power source, so that should've been impossible.
[ There was a near past where Subaru was certain he didn't want anyone to reach him. Where a gentleness like this would have been wasted on the ruination of his heart. Whatever warmth he felt he was quick to release so it wouldn't catch in the undertow of his true wish, so it wouldn't drown with him. Now, pulled back to the surface by a force he hasn't even begun to grasp, now, given an impossible second chance, now...
Now, he's not so sure.
It's easier to focus on what's right in front of him, the shape of his thoughts coalescing around what Caelus shares about his experiences. ]
Do you think it's something to do with electricity? Or metal? [ That molten color shines in his memory. ] The latter would explain the trolleys... it could be related to polarity or magnetism.
[ There are lingering complicated emotions in their tether, and Caelus is aware it must be related to how he must've accidentally stepped on something he shouldn't have. So knowing he needs to leave it alone for now, he continues to distract Subaru with something else.
He keeps smiling for both their sakes, further increasing the sensation of warmth and security to keep away any traces of that seemingly lonely confusion within the other's heart. He hopes one day, they can face that more bravely together. ]
I think so. It has to be related. After I found out that I can power devices like that, I tried to experiment with various items, like flashlights, table lamps, clocks, cameras, gas stoves, electric stoves, and even a motorcycle engine. The only thing that didn't work in that list is the gas stove. Though, it wears me out really, really quickly, so I can't do it efficiently right now.
That wasn't the end of it. I didn't notice at first since I already have a love for engineering and… um, random objects. [ Trash-loving raccoon… ] But I think something caused my crafting skills to significantly improve as well. I was "sure, I can fix this" good, but I wasn't "sure, I can fix this, and upgrade this and that while I'm at it!" kind of good!
[ As they return to the trailer site, Subaru diligently listens to each of the aspects Caelus describes. People call him a workaholic, but... clearly, the trailblazer also can't be kept down when it comes to finding answers for himself. And, just like it'd benefitted Subaru to lean into the native flow of magic, Caelus had been able to help secure them clean water in the treatment plant by the same measure. ]
I don't doubt that it'll be a valuable skill to have in this landscape. Metal is an important element in onmyoudo too... even though everything I've seen here is more advanced than what I know.
[ Even in ruin, he can tell this time is not the same one he inhabited. Its wreckage gleams too focused, concise, sharp. ]
Your interest in it means you'll probably adapt quickly.
[ "More advanced than what I know…" Oh, that's right. Subaru did promise to tell Caelus more about his world. He wonders if this topic is okay? He seems to hesitate a little, afraid of stepping on something wrong again, but he decides to ask regardless. There's no way for him to find out if he doesn't.
So, very curiously, and at the same time timidly… ]
I can. [ Subaru stops near the fire pit, his notched branches held carefully in his hands. Whatever he has planned for them he mindfully pauses, giving Caelus his full attention instead. ] Was there anything specific you wanted to know?
[ He does, of course, think firstly of Japan. But then — Caelus has traveled the stars. Would the Earth itself be more suited? ]
[ !! Does that mean it's okay? Caelus brightens, feeling excited to hear about this. He can't help but approach Subaru closer, beaming up at the taller man. ]
Ehh, let's see… [ What does he know about Japan so far? He'll try to review… ] So, so! Japan is… on planet Earth. Where people speak Japaneise! The continent is called A… A… [ Hold on, he has this. ] Aseeia?
[ … Well, almost got it. Look at him, his pronunciation is getting a little better at least! ]
On Earth, there are many other continents I don't know. But I heard of Korea. And Ameri.. America! Is where we are, Manhattan! America is the one that looks like a big whale on the map! I heard the term New York too, but I don't know what that is.
[ The smile that upturns the corners of his mouth is faint but genuine, patient. ]
Yes, we're in North America. Within that continent, we're in the country of the United States of America. New York is one of those states. Manhattan is one of its districts... ah, boroughs, are what they're called. Even though it's an island.
[ Shifting again in consideration, Subaru moves across the parking lot, kneeling to pick up some of the smaller rocks, bits of concrete, and other sturdy debris. ]
[ It's the smallest moments like these that Caelus also loves so much. It may not seem much, but the more they happen, the more important memories they become collectively… He's happily learning today and will keep all the knowledge with him for the future. When Subaru smiles, Caelus's own softens. ]
Wow! So America's so really, really big!! [ Well, it did look super big on the map, but Caelus couldn't estimate how big it actually is. ] You have to show me Japan on the map sometime. I want to see your country…
So, I'm assuming Japan is bigger than New York… Is it as big as America?
[ He's tailing Subaru around as he moves and collects the small items… ]
Meggy told me you're both from To— to…? [ Oh, crap. He forgot the name! Uhh. It was something like…! ] Toouupyo?
[ Satisfied with his collection, he returns to the front of the trailer and begins to arrange the items into small piles, just sturdy enough to prop the carved sticks up in as if he's making some sort of gate in front of it. ]
Japan is bigger than New York, but much smaller than America.
[ With careful hands, he erects the sticks in place. ]
Meggy...? [ Ah. His expression softens. Of all the people he expected to meet here, one whose experiences so closely mirrored his own wasn't one of them. But he is glad they met, that he can support someone bright like him. ] Megumi. We are both from Tokyo. It's the capital city of Japan.
Based on the year here... Tokyo and New York City have a friendship agreement. They're considered sister cities, though I've never seen it myself before now.
[ Even if it's been twisted beyond former recognition, the heart of the matter stands. ]
To… ko. To— k— [ He lets Subaru focus on finishing the task, while he occupies himself by trying to memorize the way Subaru said the word. ] Kyo… Tokyo…!
[ He did it. ✨ Now he shifts his attention to the finished arrangement on the ground, observing the details of the small structure. He seems to brighten in interest when hearing about New York and Tokyo's connection. The usual Caelus, forever curious and eager to learn. ]
That's cute! … Ah, I really do hope there are survivors outside Manhattan…
[ That's been his hope ever since he learned this is only one island. One that's purposely blocked off from the rest of the world, too. Surely, there have to be people out there somewhere…? Earth is a huge planet. And while Subaru figured out who Meggy is, Caelus will still clarify anyway. ]
Meggy is so tall for his age, huh? I went to check on him a few days ago and cooked a meal for him. I know he can take care of himself, but I still worry. He's still a kid, after all.
[ Subaru hadn't thought about it with any particular vigor, whether or not there were survivors beyond this one solitary island. He'd been preoccupied with the deity as she'd come to them, her whim and her feats. And, of course, the people immediately nearest to him in this little settlement. But, in thinking about it now, he agrees: ]
I also hope there are other survivors we'll meet someday.
[ Surely, there must be more. The odds dictate it so, even if he finds himself unsettled and with more questions the more he thinks about it. Motioning for Caelus to follow him and take a seat by the fire pit, Subaru pulls lengths of paper out of his coat pocket. They're blank, not yet used for talismans. ]
He's in a similar trade to mine. Fushiguro Megumi is... very bright. [ In deft fingertips, Subaru begins to weave shide, paper streamers, into a zigzag shape. He goes slow to show Caelus what he's doing. Though his attention is neatly divided between this task and his words, his feelings don't change. There is a strong pulse of recognition and fondness. ] But there are challenges to growing up with the gifts that he has.
[ When Subaru wishes for the same, Caelus smiles softly. Happy to have someone hoping with him, but also a little sad if their hopes become dashed one day. But he'll cross that bridge when he gets there. For now, it doesn't hurt to have a little prayer for hope.
When signalled to follow, Caelus responds quickly and sits with Subaru, still observing the procedures for the ceremony. The skill that Subaru possesses for his craft is so impressive, it's as if witnessing a professional artisan create an intricate masterpiece right before his eyes. The trailblazer can't help but cheer him on, clapping with a beam on his face. ]
You're so good with that. You must have other artistic talents.
[ Maybe Subaru's great at painting, too. Caelus can easily see that. ]
Mm… I know. He's so mature and responsible, way too much for someone his age. That's why I plan on making sure he has a good childhood! I'll play with him and take care of him as much as I can. He needs to have important fun memories as a kid, and not be overwhelmed with the worries of an adult.
[ Subaru shakes his head as he hands one of the completed shide to Caelus to hold. ]
No, it's just something my grandmother taught me. Streamers like these are used in ceremonies in Japan.
[ When he was struggling to keep up with high school and his work as the head of his clan, art classes were often the first to go. If he has any talent for it, he's long overlooked it in favor of power. He starts on a second streamer, intending to attach them to the notches he made on the sticks now standing upright in front of the trailer. As he works, fingers deft and sure in their little undertaking, near instinctual, his expression mellows.
He remembers the second conversation he'd had with Megumi. That patchwork memory of Shibuya in ruin, the trapped civilians and fallen allies. Being attacked, the window... so much blood for one boy to shed. ]
If you could do that, please do. [ He says, despite himself. There is no taking the things Megumi has already experienced away. There is no going back from the role he was given by the gift of his power, his birthright. But still... ] I know there are things he wishes to do when he returns home that none of us can change. But while he's here, he should know some of those good experiences too.
[ Is it the right place for it? Maybe not. But it doesn't stop him from thinking so. ]
[ Careful not to wrinkle or tear it, Caelus accepts the shide with two hands. There are two lonely sensations in the air. But the trailblazer doesn't comment on it, choosing to take in those feelings into his heart. He can take a guess.
Maybe aside from Megumi's missed opportunities for a happy childhood, Subaru might have experienced the same. Two lonely souls. The two are similar in some ways, especially in discovering that they have connected trades. They must've received similar training. And it's not impossible to imagine that these two must've suffered in their own ways through life's tough trials.
After all, Subaru did converse with Caelus about the end of the world. He sounded experienced. He must've seen it at least once before, or came close to seeing it before. ]
I will. I promise.
[ But that's not all. ]
I know this is weird to say since you're older than me, but I want to do the same for you. Maybe it's a little late since you're not a child anymore either, but there's no rule restricting it! After all, what will become of me, who lost everything I know?
[ Caelus had to start from zero entirely… Without anything carrying him, what was he to feel? Where does he go? How does he go on? He had to overcome these feelings to get to where he is now. He created his own path, his own memories. He reached out and found his own happiness. Or more accurately, he's still trying to find that now. Is he truly happy? But he believes he's on the right track.
And he wants both Megumi and Subaru to be happy as well. So Caelus smiles, using a free hand to gently touch Subaru's cheek. ]
[ Subaru listens. It's what he's good at, even if beautiful words are typically placed, untouched, onto the vast shelves of his memory. Just as he finishes the second shide, the warm touch motions across his face. It stills him like a veil of calm; something soft and yet still difficult to see through. He allows Caelus this touch, this conduit. His own experience prevails like a wash of light, a new dawn over a blank landscape. At its heart is not the Stellaron and the purpose that crafts itself around it, but the person the trailblazer has endeavored to be. By carving each experience into something worth remembering and keeping, no matter deep the tragedy or slight the happiness.
Subaru doesn't know if he has that ability. But he's never found it to feel so within reach. There's a slight dip to his head, a nod that presses his cheek into the touch as an acknowledgement. If not only for Caelus, then for Megumi too, who deserves more than what his blood and talent dictate. What can he do for them?
He doesn't know if he can, but he can try. Even if only for a little while. ]
It's not such a strange wish to have. [ Even at the end of the world, surely there are people who must have wanted to live. ] Just by doing things like this...
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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Thank you. [ Subaru takes the branches, weighing them in his hands. ] These will work fine.
[ Branches in one hand, he extends the other, indicating the pocket knife. ]
May I?
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He wonders what the onmyoji intends to do with the branches, but he supposes he'll see it now. Thinking about it, some of Subaru's arts remind Caelus of some friends of his from Xianzhou, particularly Hanya, who also works with ink and paper on her spells. ]
Were you perhaps an exorcist back home?
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White making a notch with the edge of the knife, Subaru's brows draw upwards in curiosity. ]
My work is similar. I'm an onmyouji. [ He pauses his knifework, steps slow. ] How do you know that?
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He lets out a quiet, amused laugh when he appears to have made an… almost correct guess? So it's not exactly an exorcist, though maybe it has overlapping roles? ]
I have a few friends who are exorcists, I met them through my travels in my universe. Some of the gestures you do sometimes remind me of them. You all have a very certain way of holding paper, for instance…
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[ Finishing the other branch, he clicks the pocket knife shut and offers it back to Caelus. ]
Exorcisms are one area of my work. Onmyoudo itself is a large school of magic that spans back hundreds of years in my home country. I can perform divinations, protection rituals, blessings... things of that nature.
[ Or — he could, before this. Working with runes hasn't been entirely dissimilar though. Comparatively, he's taken to Sleep's magic incredibly fast. ]
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That's amazing. That makes sense why you can perform the ceremony for the trailer.
[ Wait… ]
Hm? I thought we all lost our powers, coming here. Did you retain yours?
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[ Subaru is never the first to espouse his abilities. But with everything that Caelus has given to him, his unerring warmth and his deep-seated secrets pressed into the contours of his hands, he thinks he can explain without regret. ]
In many ways, onmyoudo is a magic of translation. Onmyouji translate energy, elements, the stars. I feel that whatever powers I gained by coming here are similar. There's a language I instinctively know, even if it's not complete. It's how I've been able to teach myself similar techniques.
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Relief soon hits Caelus with that realization, so he's able to listen to everything without feeling guilty about it. In fact, he's honored to hear everything now, because it means Subaru decided to tell him despite whatever weighs him down about it. He takes every word to heart. ]
I understand. That's quite a coincidence, then.
[ Is it a good or bad thing? Caelus doesn't know, but it'll at least allow Subaru to adjust much better. So he can protect himself and others better. ]
What I received confounds me a little. I'm not sure what exactly it is, even now. Though I've begun to notice several things about it at least, unlike the last time I mentioned the topic to you.
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It's been difficult to remain on his guard. ]
You did mention that. How you weren't sure what was going to awaken in you. [ Briefly, he remembers the hue of his eyes. Like direct sunlight glowing off metal. It was so striking. ] Has something changed for you?
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In fact, it may even cause the opposite effects that he wanted… The mere idea of that is heartbreaking. So he'll wait, no matter how long. He smiles a little when he proceeds to explain his findings, wanting to continue the good mood of their gentle conversation. ]
I don't know if anything changed specifically, but some strange things happened. There was a time I was looking through the luggage trolleys for hauling my scavenged items, then they started moving on their own for a minute! I almost thought the hotel was haunted.
Another time was when I was repairing devices. Some of the devices actually powered on for a split second, and I was so shocked. They don't have a power source, so that should've been impossible.
no subject
Now, he's not so sure.
It's easier to focus on what's right in front of him, the shape of his thoughts coalescing around what Caelus shares about his experiences. ]
Do you think it's something to do with electricity? Or metal? [ That molten color shines in his memory. ] The latter would explain the trolleys... it could be related to polarity or magnetism.
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He keeps smiling for both their sakes, further increasing the sensation of warmth and security to keep away any traces of that seemingly lonely confusion within the other's heart. He hopes one day, they can face that more bravely together. ]
I think so. It has to be related. After I found out that I can power devices like that, I tried to experiment with various items, like flashlights, table lamps, clocks, cameras, gas stoves, electric stoves, and even a motorcycle engine. The only thing that didn't work in that list is the gas stove. Though, it wears me out really, really quickly, so I can't do it efficiently right now.
That wasn't the end of it. I didn't notice at first since I already have a love for engineering and… um, random objects. [ Trash-loving raccoon… ] But I think something caused my crafting skills to significantly improve as well. I was "sure, I can fix this" good, but I wasn't "sure, I can fix this, and upgrade this and that while I'm at it!" kind of good!
no subject
I don't doubt that it'll be a valuable skill to have in this landscape. Metal is an important element in onmyoudo too... even though everything I've seen here is more advanced than what I know.
[ Even in ruin, he can tell this time is not the same one he inhabited. Its wreckage gleams too focused, concise, sharp. ]
Your interest in it means you'll probably adapt quickly.
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So, very curiously, and at the same time timidly… ]
Subaru? Will you tell me more about your home?
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I can. [ Subaru stops near the fire pit, his notched branches held carefully in his hands. Whatever he has planned for them he mindfully pauses, giving Caelus his full attention instead. ] Was there anything specific you wanted to know?
[ He does, of course, think firstly of Japan. But then — Caelus has traveled the stars. Would the Earth itself be more suited? ]
no subject
Ehh, let's see… [ What does he know about Japan so far? He'll try to review… ] So, so! Japan is… on planet Earth. Where people speak Japaneise! The continent is called A… A… [ Hold on, he has this. ] Aseeia?
[ … Well, almost got it. Look at him, his pronunciation is getting a little better at least! ]
On Earth, there are many other continents I don't know. But I heard of Korea. And Ameri.. America! Is where we are, Manhattan! America is the one that looks like a big whale on the map! I heard the term New York too, but I don't know what that is.
no subject
Yes, we're in North America. Within that continent, we're in the country of the United States of America. New York is one of those states. Manhattan is one of its districts... ah, boroughs, are what they're called. Even though it's an island.
[ Shifting again in consideration, Subaru moves across the parking lot, kneeling to pick up some of the smaller rocks, bits of concrete, and other sturdy debris. ]
My home country, Japan, is also an island.
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Wow! So America's so really, really big!! [ Well, it did look super big on the map, but Caelus couldn't estimate how big it actually is. ] You have to show me Japan on the map sometime. I want to see your country…
So, I'm assuming Japan is bigger than New York… Is it as big as America?
[ He's tailing Subaru around as he moves and collects the small items… ]
Meggy told me you're both from To— to…? [ Oh, crap. He forgot the name! Uhh. It was something like…! ] Toouupyo?
no subject
Japan is bigger than New York, but much smaller than America.
[ With careful hands, he erects the sticks in place. ]
Meggy...? [ Ah. His expression softens. Of all the people he expected to meet here, one whose experiences so closely mirrored his own wasn't one of them. But he is glad they met, that he can support someone bright like him. ] Megumi. We are both from Tokyo. It's the capital city of Japan.
Based on the year here... Tokyo and New York City have a friendship agreement. They're considered sister cities, though I've never seen it myself before now.
[ Even if it's been twisted beyond former recognition, the heart of the matter stands. ]
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[ He did it. ✨ Now he shifts his attention to the finished arrangement on the ground, observing the details of the small structure. He seems to brighten in interest when hearing about New York and Tokyo's connection. The usual Caelus, forever curious and eager to learn. ]
That's cute! … Ah, I really do hope there are survivors outside Manhattan…
[ That's been his hope ever since he learned this is only one island. One that's purposely blocked off from the rest of the world, too. Surely, there have to be people out there somewhere…? Earth is a huge planet. And while Subaru figured out who Meggy is, Caelus will still clarify anyway. ]
Meggy is so tall for his age, huh? I went to check on him a few days ago and cooked a meal for him. I know he can take care of himself, but I still worry. He's still a kid, after all.
no subject
I also hope there are other survivors we'll meet someday.
[ Surely, there must be more. The odds dictate it so, even if he finds himself unsettled and with more questions the more he thinks about it. Motioning for Caelus to follow him and take a seat by the fire pit, Subaru pulls lengths of paper out of his coat pocket. They're blank, not yet used for talismans. ]
He's in a similar trade to mine. Fushiguro Megumi is... very bright. [ In deft fingertips, Subaru begins to weave shide, paper streamers, into a zigzag shape. He goes slow to show Caelus what he's doing. Though his attention is neatly divided between this task and his words, his feelings don't change. There is a strong pulse of recognition and fondness. ] But there are challenges to growing up with the gifts that he has.
I'm glad he has you to depend on as well.
no subject
When signalled to follow, Caelus responds quickly and sits with Subaru, still observing the procedures for the ceremony. The skill that Subaru possesses for his craft is so impressive, it's as if witnessing a professional artisan create an intricate masterpiece right before his eyes. The trailblazer can't help but cheer him on, clapping with a beam on his face. ]
You're so good with that. You must have other artistic talents.
[ Maybe Subaru's great at painting, too. Caelus can easily see that. ]
Mm… I know. He's so mature and responsible, way too much for someone his age. That's why I plan on making sure he has a good childhood! I'll play with him and take care of him as much as I can. He needs to have important fun memories as a kid, and not be overwhelmed with the worries of an adult.
no subject
No, it's just something my grandmother taught me. Streamers like these are used in ceremonies in Japan.
[ When he was struggling to keep up with high school and his work as the head of his clan, art classes were often the first to go. If he has any talent for it, he's long overlooked it in favor of power. He starts on a second streamer, intending to attach them to the notches he made on the sticks now standing upright in front of the trailer. As he works, fingers deft and sure in their little undertaking, near instinctual, his expression mellows.
He remembers the second conversation he'd had with Megumi. That patchwork memory of Shibuya in ruin, the trapped civilians and fallen allies. Being attacked, the window... so much blood for one boy to shed. ]
If you could do that, please do. [ He says, despite himself. There is no taking the things Megumi has already experienced away. There is no going back from the role he was given by the gift of his power, his birthright. But still... ] I know there are things he wishes to do when he returns home that none of us can change. But while he's here, he should know some of those good experiences too.
[ Is it the right place for it? Maybe not. But it doesn't stop him from thinking so. ]
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Maybe aside from Megumi's missed opportunities for a happy childhood, Subaru might have experienced the same. Two lonely souls. The two are similar in some ways, especially in discovering that they have connected trades. They must've received similar training. And it's not impossible to imagine that these two must've suffered in their own ways through life's tough trials.
After all, Subaru did converse with Caelus about the end of the world. He sounded experienced. He must've seen it at least once before, or came close to seeing it before. ]
I will. I promise.
[ But that's not all. ]
I know this is weird to say since you're older than me, but I want to do the same for you. Maybe it's a little late since you're not a child anymore either, but there's no rule restricting it! After all, what will become of me, who lost everything I know?
[ Caelus had to start from zero entirely… Without anything carrying him, what was he to feel? Where does he go? How does he go on? He had to overcome these feelings to get to where he is now. He created his own path, his own memories. He reached out and found his own happiness. Or more accurately, he's still trying to find that now. Is he truly happy? But he believes he's on the right track.
And he wants both Megumi and Subaru to be happy as well. So Caelus smiles, using a free hand to gently touch Subaru's cheek. ]
Let's all make good memories together, Subaru.
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Subaru doesn't know if he has that ability. But he's never found it to feel so within reach. There's a slight dip to his head, a nod that presses his cheek into the touch as an acknowledgement. If not only for Caelus, then for Megumi too, who deserves more than what his blood and talent dictate. What can he do for them?
He doesn't know if he can, but he can try. Even if only for a little while. ]
It's not such a strange wish to have. [ Even at the end of the world, surely there are people who must have wanted to live. ] Just by doing things like this...
[ He hands the second shide to Caelus. ]
I'm sure it'll come true.
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