𝚒𝚗𝚋𝚘𝚡 — 𝚜𝚘𝚖𝚗𝚒𝚊.

[sacral]

EVEN WHEN THE BOUGH BREAKS

Comments

[salaryman]

But if we don't do anything, what do you think will happen?

[sacral]

[ It does strike a nerve. ]

...there are other ways. If you really want to know.

[salaryman]

Well, I wouldn't be opposed to hearing them.

[sacral]

In onmyoudo, you can scry any of the elements. Water, fire, stone, wind...

But it's also possible to scry less orthodox things. Like blood.

[salaryman]

That so?

I'd love to try.

[sacral]

There are some limitations to teaching here. But I think it's possible, if that's what you wish to do.

[salaryman]

Well, it isn't something I could do before - so why don't we give it a whirl?

[sacral]

Alright. Because of the nature of your magic, it might flourish for you.

[ And, unspoken: it's likely the only reason why he's willing. ]

You can name a time, but I'd prefer to pick the space.

[salaryman]

Gimme some time to not be so nervous about the goddess I'm flirting with --

[ He hums. How long will it take to ease his worries? Not that long. His easy-going nature - the nature that lets all trouble roll of him - is a blessing as much as a curse for those around him. ]

How about in two days time? In the afternoon?

[ A small laugh. ] I live quite far so it'll give me time to get to where you are. Since you're doing me a favor, the last I can do is put in the literal leg work.

[sacral]

[ Perhaps a blessing in disguise, that cavalier nature of his. ]

Understood. But I'll choose a location closer to you. After this ritual, your body might not be in any condition to travel long distances.

[ Forward. ]

Unless you'd like to stay with me for a time.

[ ...even more forward. ]

[salaryman]

Well, sure!

It'll be like a sleepover.

[ Hm. ]

Have you ever had one of those?

[sacral]

[ hm, ]

Not in the traditional sense. Though I suppose...

My apartment has been busier than I'm used to, as of late.

[salaryman]

It's because you're so popular, I'm sure.

[ A beat. ]

Subaru, what do you like? Like what would you like as a gift? Even though things are as they are -- [ A dreary situation where it's hard to find supplies. ] -- I think bringing a gift when visiting is still something I should do.

[sacral]

You find it difficult to neglect your manners, don't you?

[ Souvenirs, good tidings for longevity, health, luck. So on. Though he supposes this landscape makes even the smallest offering mean more. So, he exercises his pliancy: ]

Tea and paper go fast here.

[salaryman]

I do... or rather I find that doing this is the least I can do for others.

[ Another very soft laugh. ]

They do. So... I'll see if I can find you some?

[sacral]

You don't have to justify it. It's not a bad thing.

I'll accept, in that case.

[salaryman]

You're really an understanding person.

Thank you, thank you. I appreciate your help and presence so much.

[sacral]

It's nothing. I'm not much of a teacher... but, like you've said — it doesn't feel right to do nothing.

[salaryman]

I'm glad to be able to give you something to do.

I'll be sure to take good notes and attempt to get a good grade in blood rituals.

[sacral]

Then you won't mind if I hold you to it.

[salaryman]

Of course not.

I hope to get an A in this... so even if you feel like you're not a good teacher, I promise to be your best student.