[ 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...
[ Even though there are feelings of uncertainty in this tether, it's vastly overwhelmed by the opposite emotions. The feeling of faith. The feeling of hope, represented by the smallest steps forward. Caelus is always taking huge leaps forward in life, but that doesn't mean he's moving alone. He waits ahead of life's road, waiting for his friends to arrive. He turns around, not necessarily to look back at the past, but to reach out to those still in the past.
If a friend needs more time, then he'll also slow down alongside them. That's what it means to connect and understand. When Subaru leans into his palm, Caelus adds more warmth to it by properly cupping that soft cheek. There's no doubt in the trailblazer's mind that despite how close they are now, the onmyouji is still somewhere far behind the road. But he'll wait. One day, he's sure that they'll reach each other even more deeply.
Once the next shide is passed onto him, Caelus lowers his hand in order to collect it, putting together the two. The feeling of Subaru's cheek still lingers on his palm, and hearing those words while thinking about this easily melts his heart. ]
That's right. I'll make sure that it will.
[ Wishing can only get a person so far. Caelus believes in the miracle of wishes, but more than anything, he believes in his own efforts. He'll work for it all and earn it properly— the true smiles of people, most especially Subaru's. He's seen Subaru's lovely smile several times by now, but he can't help but want more. He wants to see its entire true form, unrestained, beautiful, and radiant. ]
Why don't we read a book together sometime? You can teach me more English or Japanese that way, too…
[ With Caelus holding the shide, Subaru stands and leads the way back to the front of the trailer. Kneeling and motioning for him to follow, he indicates the notches at the ends of the sticks he'd carved as a place to insert them so they hang like tassels or streamers might. ]
Of course, I don't mind. I haven't found many books in Japanese... [ Once the streamers are in place, he dusts his knees softly and rises again. ] But I should still be able to translate some basic English for you.
[ It may not be all that impressive, but the time spent will be worth it. Standing back, he seems to be mentally checking things off. ]
All that's left is rope... or twine. And two cups of water.
[ There's a lot of visible apartment buildings right next to this parking lot, which is convenient for Subaru as he can use them as additional rooms, especially if he ever has several guests over. He can also easily restock the water tank in the trailer using nearby sources of water, such as the plumbing access in the apartments.
So off they go, entering the Chelsea bed and breakfast nearby. It's rather messy as expected, but surprisingly, there are barely any signs of corruption. This area might've been one of the lucky ones. ]
This place is kind of cute. It must've been really nice back then.
[ At Caelus's prompting, Subaru enters the ground level apartment through its bright red door after him, letting his eyes adjust to the dim light. It's as he says: quaint inside, even in disrepair. Not too big, but with room enough. Silent a moment to really take in that musing, he steps through the debris. Across the way, there's a little nook filled with texts. Many of the books have been scoured for pages, likely for fire kindling, but not all. He reaches up to wipe a thick layer of dust from one of the shelves. ]
In Japan, red... or vermillion, is said to ward off evil. Many shrines are guarded by red gates.
[ He exhales softly as he brushes the accumulated dust from his hands. Nearby, the desk has a few things left on it — one of which is a spool of packing twine. Subaru reaches for it. That'll do, as far as rope goes. ]
[ These occasional trivia that Subaru shares mean everything for the eternally curious Caelus. He absolutely adores learning about the cultures of worlds, as evidenced by his behavior when it comes to learning about other planets and other people. And there he is again, getting excited over one little fact about gates and doors.
Oh, but it is getting dark, huh. Is it already nearing sunset hours? It seems they've spent a lot of time together today without realizing how time flew by. These days, it has become so natural for the two of them. ]
I'll go check the kitchen. I'm sure there are cups there… Or at least, I hope so.
[ Temporarily parting from Subaru to look for the kitchen in the building, Caelus lets the onmyouji look around more for the meantime. He does seem fascinated by the book collection here. ]
[ Nodding Caelus off towards the kitchen for the last remaining items they need, Subaru lingers in the area between while he does so. Maybe the red door really is lucky, he thinks, gaze poring over the apartment's interior still holding strong against the rot of the outer world. Not everything is touched by her ruin, but it's uncommon enough that it stands out to him.
He notes it in the margins of his awareness. Perhaps he'll revisit this place to take his own pass over the books, the wares, the traces of a home long fallen but clinging to existence. It's nearby to the lot and a park where his birds fly free in practiced script. Later, he thinks. When there's more light.
Stepping closer to the entryway again, he calls out: ]
[ With excited hops, Caelus eventually returns to Subaru's side while carrying not just two, but maybe five cups! The cups are as aesthetic as the rest of the apartment, noted by their colorful designs that match the interior. He shows them off proudly. ]
They were nicely kept in the cupboard! The original owner of this place must've been a very tidy person.
[ Only two of the cups are filled with water, though. As instructed by Subaru. ]
[ Briefly surprised by the appearance of so many cups, Subaru's expression fades into a pleasantly dry warmth. He reaches out to take the two cups of water from him so that his hands aren't so full. ]
It seems so. [ Which is a blessing, in these circumstances. ] We can take a better look later.
[ With that, he guides them back out of the apartment and shuts the door safely behind them. Down the steps, onto the sidewalk and back into the lot where the trailer sits against the oncoming backdrop of night. He goes about the last of the preparations: he connects the two sticks with a loose length of twine. Then, he sets the cups of water on either side of the "gate" he's made. Standing back, he pulls a length of paper from his pocket, its surface already imbued with ink and magic. ]
I've never attempted this without onmyoudo before. [ What a strange world still, to not have it, but something that feels as if it was crafted in its shadow. ] But the steps should work the same.
[ Curling his arm and releasing it in a quick snap, he flicks the paper at the gate and it flies as if alive, the rune on it casting a thin wall of magic for it to stick to. ]
[ It really is getting dark out here… Thankfully, the sunset is still bright enough. While Subaru is making his final preparations for the ceremony, Caelus approaches the pocket-sized device connected to the fairy lights above the trailer. It's actually a tiny generator that he's managed to create using salvaged parts, though it's nothing impressive, and it can only be charged up by an Artificer like him.
The tiny device can temporarily power the fairy lights, but it won't last the whole evening. Maybe around an hour at most. However, lighting up the area isn't the point. The main purpose is to see its beauty: the soft, glowing lights which set the mood, even if only for a short while. Caelus wants Subaru to witness that soft glow, so he decides to sacrifice some of his energy to charge the generator tonight. It'll make him a little dizzy after, but it's worth it. Besides, this is good practice for him to become stronger.
Just in time. Once Subaru flicks the paper and casts his spell, Caelus's own spell on the generator completes as well. Both of their spells glimmer together, then come fully alive. The fairy lights brighten, shining down on the trailer and within the reflection of their eyes. The full display of Subaru's completed gate. A soft sanctuary in this darkened city. ]
[ So it's not only his light that protects this place, but also Caelus's. Subaru's gaze upturns to admire it, features cast in that warm gold.
In the faint glow of entwined spellwork between the two of them, the spell completes when the water flows upwards from the cups. It curls in soft, quick shapes, then coats the ground. The streamers shudder slightly, and the thread snaps. The gate becomes a conduit through which any remaining malevolence leaves. All at once, the air calms. It's as if some greater energy sighs out beneath the gentle gaze of the lights. All the unease, the maliciousness, the dread — doesn't disappear. But it does soften.
A sanctuary in this darkened city...
Protected by magic. But built by someone's own two hands. ]
[ The air… feels clearer. Breathing comes more easily. Caelus can't remember the last time he's taken in such fresher air. Because even during his time in Amphoreus, that world's environment was also… ruined. Ash. Dust. Fire. The Black Tide. How long has it been, truly?
The way Caelus can barely remember the date makes his eyes water just slightly. The eternal loop in Amphoreus, what Lygus did to everyone… Ah, but what is he doing, getting lost in his thoughts like this? This is a precious moment, and he wants to remember it that way. So he wipes his eyes, then smiles once more, especially as he turns to face Subaru.
And a nervous, soft laugh, waving his two hands quickly. ]
N… no! Please, lift your head. I'm returning the favor. You saved my life, Subaru. I wouldn't be here now, if it weren't for you… But, I'm really… glad.
[ Very glad that Subaru seems to like it. It was all worth it, especially to feel this kind of comforting environment again. ]
Edited (ONE DAY I WILL STOP MAKING TYPOS) 2025-12-14 05:16 (UTC)
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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. ]
no subject
[ 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. ]
no subject
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.
no subject
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.
no subject
If a friend needs more time, then he'll also slow down alongside them. That's what it means to connect and understand. When Subaru leans into his palm, Caelus adds more warmth to it by properly cupping that soft cheek. There's no doubt in the trailblazer's mind that despite how close they are now, the onmyouji is still somewhere far behind the road. But he'll wait. One day, he's sure that they'll reach each other even more deeply.
Once the next shide is passed onto him, Caelus lowers his hand in order to collect it, putting together the two. The feeling of Subaru's cheek still lingers on his palm, and hearing those words while thinking about this easily melts his heart. ]
That's right. I'll make sure that it will.
[ Wishing can only get a person so far. Caelus believes in the miracle of wishes, but more than anything, he believes in his own efforts. He'll work for it all and earn it properly— the true smiles of people, most especially Subaru's. He's seen Subaru's lovely smile several times by now, but he can't help but want more. He wants to see its entire true form, unrestained, beautiful, and radiant. ]
Why don't we read a book together sometime? You can teach me more English or Japanese that way, too…
no subject
Of course, I don't mind. I haven't found many books in Japanese... [ Once the streamers are in place, he dusts his knees softly and rises again. ] But I should still be able to translate some basic English for you.
[ It may not be all that impressive, but the time spent will be worth it. Standing back, he seems to be mentally checking things off. ]
All that's left is rope... or twine. And two cups of water.
no subject
[ There's a lot of visible apartment buildings right next to this parking lot, which is convenient for Subaru as he can use them as additional rooms, especially if he ever has several guests over. He can also easily restock the water tank in the trailer using nearby sources of water, such as the plumbing access in the apartments.
So off they go, entering the Chelsea bed and breakfast nearby. It's rather messy as expected, but surprisingly, there are barely any signs of corruption. This area might've been one of the lucky ones. ]
This place is kind of cute. It must've been really nice back then.
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In Japan, red... or vermillion, is said to ward off evil. Many shrines are guarded by red gates.
[ He exhales softly as he brushes the accumulated dust from his hands. Nearby, the desk has a few things left on it — one of which is a spool of packing twine. Subaru reaches for it. That'll do, as far as rope goes. ]
Maybe the door is lucky.
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[ These occasional trivia that Subaru shares mean everything for the eternally curious Caelus. He absolutely adores learning about the cultures of worlds, as evidenced by his behavior when it comes to learning about other planets and other people. And there he is again, getting excited over one little fact about gates and doors.
Oh, but it is getting dark, huh. Is it already nearing sunset hours? It seems they've spent a lot of time together today without realizing how time flew by. These days, it has become so natural for the two of them. ]
I'll go check the kitchen. I'm sure there are cups there… Or at least, I hope so.
[ Temporarily parting from Subaru to look for the kitchen in the building, Caelus lets the onmyouji look around more for the meantime. He does seem fascinated by the book collection here. ]
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He notes it in the margins of his awareness. Perhaps he'll revisit this place to take his own pass over the books, the wares, the traces of a home long fallen but clinging to existence. It's nearby to the lot and a park where his birds fly free in practiced script. Later, he thinks. When there's more light.
Stepping closer to the entryway again, he calls out: ]
How is it? Any luck?
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They were nicely kept in the cupboard! The original owner of this place must've been a very tidy person.
[ Only two of the cups are filled with water, though. As instructed by Subaru. ]
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It seems so. [ Which is a blessing, in these circumstances. ] We can take a better look later.
[ With that, he guides them back out of the apartment and shuts the door safely behind them. Down the steps, onto the sidewalk and back into the lot where the trailer sits against the oncoming backdrop of night. He goes about the last of the preparations: he connects the two sticks with a loose length of twine. Then, he sets the cups of water on either side of the "gate" he's made. Standing back, he pulls a length of paper from his pocket, its surface already imbued with ink and magic. ]
I've never attempted this without onmyoudo before. [ What a strange world still, to not have it, but something that feels as if it was crafted in its shadow. ] But the steps should work the same.
[ Curling his arm and releasing it in a quick snap, he flicks the paper at the gate and it flies as if alive, the rune on it casting a thin wall of magic for it to stick to. ]
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The tiny device can temporarily power the fairy lights, but it won't last the whole evening. Maybe around an hour at most. However, lighting up the area isn't the point. The main purpose is to see its beauty: the soft, glowing lights which set the mood, even if only for a short while. Caelus wants Subaru to witness that soft glow, so he decides to sacrifice some of his energy to charge the generator tonight. It'll make him a little dizzy after, but it's worth it. Besides, this is good practice for him to become stronger.
Just in time. Once Subaru flicks the paper and casts his spell, Caelus's own spell on the generator completes as well. Both of their spells glimmer together, then come fully alive. The fairy lights brighten, shining down on the trailer and within the reflection of their eyes. The full display of Subaru's completed gate. A soft sanctuary in this darkened city. ]
It's finally done.
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In the faint glow of entwined spellwork between the two of them, the spell completes when the water flows upwards from the cups. It curls in soft, quick shapes, then coats the ground. The streamers shudder slightly, and the thread snaps. The gate becomes a conduit through which any remaining malevolence leaves. All at once, the air calms. It's as if some greater energy sighs out beneath the gentle gaze of the lights. All the unease, the maliciousness, the dread — doesn't disappear. But it does soften.
A sanctuary in this darkened city...
Protected by magic. But built by someone's own two hands. ]
It is. Now, the ground is blessed.
[ He bows his head just slightly. ]
Thank you, Caelus.
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The way Caelus can barely remember the date makes his eyes water just slightly. The eternal loop in Amphoreus, what Lygus did to everyone… Ah, but what is he doing, getting lost in his thoughts like this? This is a precious moment, and he wants to remember it that way. So he wipes his eyes, then smiles once more, especially as he turns to face Subaru.
And a nervous, soft laugh, waving his two hands quickly. ]
N… no! Please, lift your head. I'm returning the favor. You saved my life, Subaru. I wouldn't be here now, if it weren't for you… But, I'm really… glad.
[ Very glad that Subaru seems to like it. It was all worth it, especially to feel this kind of comforting environment again. ]