[ Upon his arrival, nothing changes for a moment. The silhouette insides carries on just as it had been, moving and rearranging things around the trailer. He's somehow managed two homes now, the apartment housing his day to day needs and the trailer becoming a shrine of sorts for his spellcasting. It's well-fortified and as lovely as the day Caelus gifted to him, if not moreso — it's got Subaru's touches all about it now, too.
Then, it's not Subaru who notices him first. At least not technically. ]
Just here to spy? Or would you like to come in?
[ — Subaru's voice from overhead, quiet and slightly echoed. One of his paper birds sits on the roof of the trailer, peering down at Caelus. This one looks more realistic. It's bigger and more refined than its fat, tiny cousins. Subaru's voice was projected from it by the rune that glows faintly on its back. It pauses, then specifies: ]
Not through the window.
[ Inside, his movements have slowed, knowing. Onmyouji are difficult to sneak up on. ]
[ Considering how well Caelus knows Subaru by now, one would think he should've expected something like this, especially since he's so well-bonded with the onmyouji's paper birds. But it still catches the trailblazer off guard, mostly because of his excitement overtaking his sense of reason. He ends up jumping backwards from being startled, losing balance in the process. ]
Waβ wah, wahβ!!
[ Caelus quickly tries to swing his arms to grab hold of the window frame, his two palms landing right on it as he ends up in a funny position out there. Thankfully, he doesn't fall over and hurt himself. He lets out a relieved sigh, then feels a bit embarrassed. ]
Sorry! [ Then, Caelus is about to enter through the window (raccoonβ¦) but gets stopped by Subaru before he even raises his foot. Subaru knows him pretty well now too, it seems! ] Ah. Yβ yes!
[ Straightening up, Caelus lets go of the window now, so he can go over to the small staircase and enter through the door properly. He knocks once before opening it to slide inside, then leaves his skateboard by the doorway. Once in, he quickly runs over to his dearest, and is about to embrace him, butβ!? ]
[ Caelus freezes just before the hug because a certain creature keeps making noise from inside his messenger bag and interrupting his moment. It's not visible yet. Well, except for its fat gray tail sticking out from the bag. β¦ But this won't stop him, so he connects the embrace eventually, even as the squishy little noise keeps going nonstop now. "Muni! Munimuni!" ]
[ Waiting patiently for Caelus to peel himself from the window and make his way in through the door proper, Subaru feels just a touch vindicated. He thought that's what he might be trying to do. Knowing how hard it was for the trailblazer to be on bedrest (or something like it...), he can't risk him doing something silly and setting himself back.
However, when he finally comes in properly, Subaru finds himself likewise stilled at the half-enacted embrace, brows rising somewhat. In the trailer, he's obviously been busy. It looks like some kind of magical study: it's stacked with books, some for reading and some for harvesting paper, various pens and writing utensils cracked open for their inks and graphite, writings tacked to the wall, candles, drying fungal blooms, a small pile of string and bells. All things in approximation of his craft, now altered by Sleep's magic. Given a place of practice now, thanks to the one trotting through his door. ...With company by the looks — sounds? — of it.
His gaze flicks to the messenger back, then back up to Caelus. ]
It's good to see you out and about again. [ Let him start with that. Behind him, the kitchenette is actually flecked with dirt. His fingertips and palms are also smeared in soil. ] You... brought someone with you?
[ Finally able to say the greeting. πΈ Ignoring the tiny noises for several seconds, Caelus takes his time enjoying the fond embrace before letting go. It's been almost two weeks without Subaru's company, so he missed him! Let him have this! Finally, once happily satisfied, the trailblazer takes a step back. He's wearing much less bandages compared to last week, indicating that he's almost entirely healed. Maybe in another week or two, he'll be bandage-free. Then, he nods to answer the question. It's time to introduce his new friend.
So Caelus shifts to open the bag, and almost immediately, the cake-shaped trash cat leaps out and lands on Subaru's shoulder. It lets out another "myuu" before sitting on the shoulder comfortably. The cake cat is very pudgy and soft. ]
It seems both of us have been busy experimenting.
[ That's what this creature is. Caelus eventually managed to figure out how to create his own homunculus after days and days of failed attempts. He was bored at the hotel, stuck in bed, so what's he to do? All he had for company most hours in the day was his amassed collection of trash and other materials. Thus, the experiments commenced.
Now that the trailblazer has the chance to look around, he excitedly turns while letting Subaru bond with the cake cat. His excited pair of eyes observes the impressive progress that the onmyouji has accomplished here. ]
Are you studying something in particular, or are you attempting new things as I did?
[ Oh! Subaru's expression lightens when the cat literally comes out of the bag. Very carefully minding its perch on his shoulder, he wipes his dirty hands on a nearby cloth before reaching up to gently scratch his fingertips under its chin. It's really cute... ]
— it's not studying, exactly. Here, take a look.
[ Standing aside with his hand to support his soft, fluffy cargo, Subaru uses his other to indicate a big plastic bucket in his sink. It's filled with potting soil; the open bag of it sits on the floor by the counter. And most importantly, there a few healthy vines planted in it, some with tiny bulbs of growing fruit on them. ]
After the sun finally rose again, these plants were growing from the concrete nearby. They don't look touched by rot. [ Even if — it gives him pause. These are surely her work, but he hasn't looked beyond that yet. He can guess the reason for a blessing to be fulfilled after the last few weeks. ] It took some effort to uproot them, but if they can be kept alive like this...
[ It speaks for itself. They'd have a more reliable food source. ]
[ The cake cat's pudgy body relaxes further, clearly appreciating the attention. It lets out baby-sounding motor sounds⦠Maybe rubbing itself against that gentle hand, too.
When Subaru calls Caelus's attention to the sink, the trailblazer walks over to peek at what could be over there. His curious eyes increase in size once he realizes what this is. These plants look quite interesting (in fact, they look rather beautiful compared to the cursed plants around here), and the fruit looks⦠actually quite good! ]
Wha⦠It looks so fresh! What is this?
[ When Subaru mentions it hasn't been infected by the rot yet, Caelus's excitement skyrockets. He hasn't seen these plants yet, considering this is the first time in a while that he's gone out of the hotel. ]
Could it be, there are more living creatures out there that possibly still survived the rot like this one? I thought they were all gone, at least here in Manhattan⦠This is amazing!
[ "Myuu! Myuu!" Even their newest friend seems to be celebrating with them. ]
[ Subaru smiles a bit at the cat's agreement, giving it a pat in response. ]
There's no way for me to prove it, but... [ His free hand lowers into the bucket to very gently twist some of the leaves in his fingers. It tempers some of his hesitation, the reality of the sensation, how cool and alive it feels to his touch. Even now, some weeks later, what happened beneath the red glow of the cathedral's glass is a sore spot for many. ] Given the timing, it may be a blessing for those who offered something in the cathedral.
[ This is closely related to his line of work, after all. Dealings with gods, with the divine, with sacrifice. And, hopefully — what everyone wishes for at the end of the suffering. The reward. ]
That's just my opinion, however. There's no way for me to know unless Sleep contacts us directly about it.
[ A blessing for those who offered. Caelus seems to fall quiet after hearing that answer, remembering something sharply. Seconds later, he shows Subaru directly. It's easier to explain after the older man sees it for himself.
A baseball bat not of this world. Caelus materializes it by holding his hand out, and it shines blue, then takes a physical shape that he can touch. Once he holds it, it looks natural on him, as if seeing two that reunited after a long time. ]
I think you might be right, because I regained thisβ¦
[ It may not be an official confirmation for the plant itself, but this is still solid proof that Sleep is rewarding them for their sacrifices. Though Caelus is glad to have one of his weapons back, he can't fully appreciate it right now because he gained it through horrible means. And he doesn't like the idea of Sleep rewarding them for their pain.
The cake cat senses its master's sadness, and starts trembling against Subaru's hand. ]
[ Plucking the cat from his shoulder, he brings it down to hold securely in his arms instead. Its squishy cake back presses gently to his middle. Hopefully, that placates some of its nervousness. Then he takes a moment to study the baseball bat and the blue light it throws about the interior of the trailer. He's certainly never seen anything like it...
But more than that, he senses the conflict that its presence draws to the surface, the remembrance and the discomfort of knowing his worst actions were rewarded with something that's clearly important to him. ]
My friend told me that I shouldn't blame myself, but I can't help feeling this way. Iβ¦ I wish I were stronger that time. I couldn't help him at allβ¦
[ Failing to protect, then landing himself in that situation⦠Maybe he earned these injuries as punishment. It feels horrible to fail to help, especially someone he cares for. That's why he didn't expect Sleep to reward him for it. The thought makes him feel sick. ]
But it already happened, and I can't do anything about it now. I have to⦠be stronger for next time. So, I don't want this to become a weakness of mine. With it, I'll change things.
[ Caelus clutches his baseball bat, straightening up as he looks at Subaru once more. The cake cat eases, feeling both the comfort of the onmyouji and the renewed determination from the trailblazer. He smiles just a little. ]
Never give up, even if I lose.
[ Familiar words. The mood is different from the first time he said it, but his spirit is unchanged. He still means every word. ]
[ Listening quietly, Subaru finally takes a step forward when he's once again given audience to those words. In any context, the trailblazer wears them well. Vastness, almost too effulgent to grasp, felt in the way he wields them like Subaru is certain he wields that bat. He lifts the cat up and places it back down on Caelus's shoulder, giving it a soft pet between the ears as he does so. ]
No one is without weaknesses. But they're important hallmarks for what path you've chosen to take.
[ He doesn't specify in what way — each person is different. Those like Caelus, a trailblazer, use them as beacons to denote what must change in order to become strong. For people like Subaru, a fate-chosen Seal, they lie at the crux of his soul, enshrined. Governance for how he interacts with the world.
Pulling his hands away, he motions to a few more vines he'd carefully extracted from the broken concrete, laying next to the sink ]
There's more, if you'd like to help me replant them. I'm not sure all of them will survive, but it's worth trying.
[ Once Subaru steps closer and places the jiggly creature on Caelus, the trailblazer's bat dissipates gently, tiny lights coming apart and fading into the air. Now with his hands freed again, he does a pumped-up, energetic gesture with them.
Meanwhile, the cake cat decides to curl up into the younger boy's hood, turning it into a cat carrier. ]
Yes, of course! Please, let me help. [ Wait. He just remembered. ] β¦ Oh!
[ Now his hand rummages his messenger bag again, shortly taking out a very recognizable long jacket. It has a pleasant baby powder scent (the smoke scent is gone), and it appears to be treated well, indicated by its clean look and well-folded state.
A familiar sticky note is on it, too. Clumsily written on it, in English it reads, "SUARIU, TAANK YUU! IT WAS RIERY WARM. COMFIE. π" It's signed with, "CAARUS CAELUU " ]
Let me go ahead and put this away for you first. Where shall I put it?
[ Surprise briefly touches his features. In truth, he'd nearly forgotten about the coat he'd lent out all those nights ago in the cathedral. Though it's one of the only things he brought from home, if it was ruined in the process, it wouldn't have really shocked him. There wasn't much hope in leaving that place untouched by its effects, let alone the blood. So seeing it proudly held aloft in Caelus's hands, cleaned even of its smoke scent, stills him. Just long enough to catch the words on the sticky note; those little notes have really pulled their weight. More than once, even.
Opting to keep the note where it is for now, Subaru indicates the small cabinet above the stairs that leads into the bedroom. ]
— thank you, those doors there. You can set it on the top shelf.
[ He's going to prepare another bucket, meanwhile...
The interior of the tiny closet space isn't much to look at either, aside from a half-empty carton of cigarettes, some clothing items, the decorative box Aventurine left him, and an old cup full of various writing utensils. ]
[ Turning around to do so, Caelus heads down the hallway to deposit the freshly laundered long jacket in the right place. When the trailblazer opens the cabinet, the cake cat decides to jump into it⦠]
Hey. [ "Muni?" ] Don't "what?" me. Come out of there.
[ "Munimuni. Muu. Myuyu." ]
No! That's notβ [ "Myu, myuu!" ] I said nβ no! Don't laugh at me! Anyway, I said to come out.
[ The cake cat ignores himβ¦ It's making itself right at home in that cabinet, causing the trailblazer to make a "I can't believe this little punk" face. Caelus has to really reach into the cabinet to reach and pull out the cake cat, which lets out some whining afterward. He sets the cat on the floor after, allowing it to play elsewhere than to curl up on Subaru's clean clothesβ¦
Once the cat starts rolling around Subaru's floor to explore the space, Caelus returns to the older man's side and smiles nervously. A bit embarrassed. ]
Sorry about him. Galactic Baseballer Jr. likes to break the rules. I'm actually surprised by how well-behaved he is when you held him earlier! He never sits still like that for me.
Really? [ Brows lifted as Subaru passes a small bag of potting soil to Caelus, he glances to the cake cat now scuttling about on the floor. He doesn't seem like he would've minded if he stayed in his closet, if that's where he wanted to be. Chores can be terribly boring to witness, he knows. But neither does he want to waste Caelus's responsible efforts... ] He seems polite enough to me.
[ Briefly, Subaru and Galactic Baseballer Jr. meet each other's eyes. He smiles a bit. ]
Isn't that so?
[ He watches it puff its body up proudly before leaving it to its adventuring. ]
You made him? [ Subaru turns his attention back to the task, turning the faucet on to wet the soil. ] He has your magical signature.
[ Once Caelus receives the soil, he's extra careful with it, making sure the plant stays safe as he starts helping to replant them. He keeps his eyes focused on the task, but continues to chat lightheartedly. He shortly laughs after hearing Subaru describe Galactic Baseballer Jr. as polite. ]
You should have seen him after he was born. He messed up my room and ate some of my precious materials. Punk!
[ He worked hard to collect those! What is he going to do now? He'll have to start all over again to find more. But he can't roam around too much yet, since he's still on the way to full recovery. He's still on the therapy part, trying to move his muscles a little more (through these walks) so they can recover better⦠He'll have to wait to restock. ]
Ah, but yes! I did. It seems this is part of my new abilities as well.
Galactic Baseballer Jr. isn't my original creation, though; I have a biologist friend from my universe who designed these creatures. But I know their DNA structures because I work as her assistant, I have created more of them to increase their population, and also further developed them from their original forms.
[ Caelus is impressed that Subaru can tell easily from a glance, but it makes sense that he can. Subaru's really talented as a spellcaster! Galactic Baseballer Jr. is also impressed, so it rolls over to the onmyouji's feet and starts fondly rubbing itself against them, purring audibly. ]
You think Galactic Baseballer Jr. is too long a name? I'm trying to think of a nickname for him. Galaxy? Baseballer? β¦ Baller?
[ It carries the same signature as the brief curls of magic he's felt from Caelus here and there, even if none ever really manifested fully in front of him yet. It was also a simple enough conclusion to reach after hearing that he'd been on bedrest and left to experiment with his abundance of free time. ...Subaru can't deny that he'd do any differently, really, especially since he's not let up at all in studying and practicing his spellcasting since arriving in Manhattan. ]
Babies do tend to navigate with their mouths. [ Uncertain of what something is? Into the maw it goes. Subaru regards its purring kindly. ] Aren't all things that are just born going to want to eat and grow? Even if it's unfortunate for your collection...
[ whose side is this guy on?? — anyway...
Subaru picks up one of the vining stalks and hands it to Caelus to plant. ]
You probably shouldn't call it Baller. [ His opinion is purely professional. ] He looks like a dessert, though. What about drawing inspiration from that?
[ That's true, huh? β¦ Caelus is suddenly making a "Ξ£(Β° β‘ Β° ΛΆ)" face, looking quite guilty. Guess who shoved weird stuff in his own mouth after awakening for the first time? There were so many things that fascinated this space raccoon on his activation day!
But then it shortly turns into "(β’Μ β€ β’Μ ΛΆ)!!" face when Caelus realizes that Subaru's being biased!? for the cake cat!! Understandable, but still!? Can't stop him from being jealous of the cat. Little punk just got here today! For five minutes!
Galactic Baseballer Jr. keeps purring at Subaru's feet, but takes a short pause to look at Caelus. β¦ "Munimuni. Myuu!" The trailblazer's eyes stare in disbelief after hearing the cat's words, but he attempts not to react. No, he can't look lame in front of Subaru. His heart is a calm leaf on still waters.
Calm. He gently receives the vining stalk to continue working quietly, trying to maintain a zen smile. But his tether is a different story, isn't it? That tether is inconveniently spilling how jealous he is right now. ]
[ Though Subaru is none the wiser about the conversation that just transpired, he can feel the spark of it illuminate across the tether. Amusement drifts in slow, sedate curls — just as calmly, Subaru uses the plants as a means to keep the peace. They're delicate and require a little concentration, after all.
(But he isn't kicking the cat off his feet, either.) ]
[ The trailblazer has yet to eat food like that, since none of the planets he's been through so far are similar to Japan. But Caelus looks very interested, seems to be really considering "Anko" as a name. Whatever it is, he has a good feeling it's fitting, especially as Subaru picked it out. He trusts his judgment, after all.
Galactic Baseballer Jr. β soon "Anko," starts jumping in excitement and emitting a bright, flowery aura. It seems to like the name, too. ]
[ Subaru's mistake is kneeling down. Now, after being patted, Anko is encouraged to get more of his attention. So a second later, the little cake cat leaps, and its soft, pudgy mass lands right into the onmyouji's arms. It lets out another pleased "myuu" and melts into those arms, with no intention of leaving, no matter what Caelus says. ]
Hmm.
[ π’ β¦ Whatever! Caelus is going to concentrate on his task. This is for Subaru's sake, so he has to finish it properly! At the very least, Caelus can listen to Subaru's explanation (therefore, hearing his lovely voice more), and he's content with that for now. ]
I hope that I can get to eat that sometime. It sounds delicious.
It's popular enough that we might have the chance to find some, someday.
[ As a baseline, nothing scavenged is all that fresh, even packaged, but the possibility isn't zero. There are so few of them that he's certain they haven't uncovered all that there is in a city as big and porous as this. Accepting the cat into his arms, he gives it a brief moment to gloat before lifting it to his shoulder and prompting it to take a seat there. Quietly, with an admonishing boop to its nose: ]
There. Behave, if you can. [ The Okay? is implicit, but seems to do the trick. Casting a glance now to the second bucket of vines, Subaru's expression leans thoughtful. ] If anything, seeing real plant life here has shifted the scale of what's possible...
[ Though he's not certain he'd like to experience something akin to the cathedral's beckoning every time, either. ]
For now, we can place them outside. If they really are Sleep's blessing, then what sunlight we have should be fine.
[ Subaru certainly knows how to uplift both of the trash-loving creatures in this room. Caelus smiles at the thought of eating anko (the sweet dessert) someday, then Anko (the trash cake cat) myuus in agreement, obediently following the onmyouji's instructions for it. Anko settles on Subaru's shoulder, gently walking around a little on it before curling up around his neck like a warm scarf.
Why is it so loyal to Subaru, even though its master is Caelus!?
The real answer is because Caelus's Artificer magic isn't stable yet, but he doesn't know this. In the future, any more homunculi will also be as rebellious, but they'll be more obedient to him once he has become stronger. ]
All right! These are done, so let me help you carry them.
[ Since Caelus's natural strength is impressive, he can carry heavier weights, and thus makes it upon himself to do most of the lifting. He follows Subaru outside, looking around for a nice, safe place to deposit the plants. ]
Maybe I should build a small greenhouse for you here sometime.
[ In time, with more exposure to the capabilities of Artificers, Subaru might gain insight on the trash cat's case of the rebellion blues. For now... well. He does make a very cute little scarf. And it's probably fine, to attribute a little misbehaving to simply being a baby.
On the way out to the front of the trailer, Subaru shakes his head. It would be a sight to see, but he wonders if the effort will bear enough fruit, both literally and figuratively. ]
If these vines survive, it could be a valuable asset to everyone here. Although I wonder if I'm here enough to tend to them right... I couldn't ask you to put in that much more work, in that case.
[ The trailblazer may not have tapped into his full magical potential, but he's no less an architect for the settlements they've been raising around the city. He is also a light, shaking loose the dust from the disused corners, transmuting what he touches for the better. Around the front door, there's a clear space where he's stacked an upside down milk crate. He spends much of his time outdoors, so if his observations are correct, they should catch the most light there. And as he indicates where Caelus can put them, his expression briefly flickers. ]
...is it really alright? For you to be lifting so much. Your injury still isn't healed fully.
[ It's in the care with which he moves, the intermittent says of bedrest keeping him from his typical travels. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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Then, it's not Subaru who notices him first. At least not technically. ]
Just here to spy? Or would you like to come in?
[ — Subaru's voice from overhead, quiet and slightly echoed. One of his paper birds sits on the roof of the trailer, peering down at Caelus. This one looks more realistic. It's bigger and more refined than its fat, tiny cousins. Subaru's voice was projected from it by the rune that glows faintly on its back. It pauses, then specifies: ]
Not through the window.
[ Inside, his movements have slowed, knowing. Onmyouji are difficult to sneak up on. ]
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Waβ wah, wahβ!!
[ Caelus quickly tries to swing his arms to grab hold of the window frame, his two palms landing right on it as he ends up in a funny position out there. Thankfully, he doesn't fall over and hurt himself. He lets out a relieved sigh, then feels a bit embarrassed. ]
Sorry! [ Then, Caelus is about to enter through the window (raccoonβ¦) but gets stopped by Subaru before he even raises his foot. Subaru knows him pretty well now too, it seems! ] Ah. Yβ yes!
[ Straightening up, Caelus lets go of the window now, so he can go over to the small staircase and enter through the door properly. He knocks once before opening it to slide inside, then leaves his skateboard by the doorway. Once in, he quickly runs over to his dearest, and is about to embrace him, butβ!? ]
Suβ [ "Munimuni!" ] β¦ Suβ! [ "Myuu!" ]
[ Caelus freezes just before the hug because a certain creature keeps making noise from inside his messenger bag and interrupting his moment. It's not visible yet. Well, except for its fat gray tail sticking out from the bag. β¦ But this won't stop him, so he connects the embrace eventually, even as the squishy little noise keeps going nonstop now. "Muni! Munimuni!" ]
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However, when he finally comes in properly, Subaru finds himself likewise stilled at the half-enacted embrace, brows rising somewhat. In the trailer, he's obviously been busy. It looks like some kind of magical study: it's stacked with books, some for reading and some for harvesting paper, various pens and writing utensils cracked open for their inks and graphite, writings tacked to the wall, candles, drying fungal blooms, a small pile of string and bells. All things in approximation of his craft, now altered by Sleep's magic. Given a place of practice now, thanks to the one trotting through his door. ...With company by the looks — sounds? — of it.
His gaze flicks to the messenger back, then back up to Caelus. ]
It's good to see you out and about again. [ Let him start with that. Behind him, the kitchenette is actually flecked with dirt. His fingertips and palms are also smeared in soil. ] You... brought someone with you?
[ Curiosity tints his tone. ]
Happy π¦ Day!
[ Finally able to say the greeting. πΈ Ignoring the tiny noises for several seconds, Caelus takes his time enjoying the fond embrace before letting go. It's been almost two weeks without Subaru's company, so he missed him! Let him have this! Finally, once happily satisfied, the trailblazer takes a step back. He's wearing much less bandages compared to last week, indicating that he's almost entirely healed. Maybe in another week or two, he'll be bandage-free. Then, he nods to answer the question. It's time to introduce his new friend.
So Caelus shifts to open the bag, and almost immediately, the cake-shaped trash cat leaps out and lands on Subaru's shoulder. It lets out another "myuu" before sitting on the shoulder comfortably. The cake cat is very pudgy and soft. ]
It seems both of us have been busy experimenting.
[ That's what this creature is. Caelus eventually managed to figure out how to create his own homunculus after days and days of failed attempts. He was bored at the hotel, stuck in bed, so what's he to do? All he had for company most hours in the day was his amassed collection of trash and other materials. Thus, the experiments commenced.
Now that the trailblazer has the chance to look around, he excitedly turns while letting Subaru bond with the cake cat. His excited pair of eyes observes the impressive progress that the onmyouji has accomplished here. ]
Are you studying something in particular, or are you attempting new things as I did?
πππ
— it's not studying, exactly. Here, take a look.
[ Standing aside with his hand to support his soft, fluffy cargo, Subaru uses his other to indicate a big plastic bucket in his sink. It's filled with potting soil; the open bag of it sits on the floor by the counter. And most importantly, there a few healthy vines planted in it, some with tiny bulbs of growing fruit on them. ]
After the sun finally rose again, these plants were growing from the concrete nearby. They don't look touched by rot. [ Even if — it gives him pause. These are surely her work, but he hasn't looked beyond that yet. He can guess the reason for a blessing to be fulfilled after the last few weeks. ] It took some effort to uproot them, but if they can be kept alive like this...
[ It speaks for itself. They'd have a more reliable food source. ]
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When Subaru calls Caelus's attention to the sink, the trailblazer walks over to peek at what could be over there. His curious eyes increase in size once he realizes what this is. These plants look quite interesting (in fact, they look rather beautiful compared to the cursed plants around here), and the fruit looks⦠actually quite good! ]
Wha⦠It looks so fresh! What is this?
[ When Subaru mentions it hasn't been infected by the rot yet, Caelus's excitement skyrockets. He hasn't seen these plants yet, considering this is the first time in a while that he's gone out of the hotel. ]
Could it be, there are more living creatures out there that possibly still survived the rot like this one? I thought they were all gone, at least here in Manhattan⦠This is amazing!
[ "Myuu! Myuu!" Even their newest friend seems to be celebrating with them. ]
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There's no way for me to prove it, but... [ His free hand lowers into the bucket to very gently twist some of the leaves in his fingers. It tempers some of his hesitation, the reality of the sensation, how cool and alive it feels to his touch. Even now, some weeks later, what happened beneath the red glow of the cathedral's glass is a sore spot for many. ] Given the timing, it may be a blessing for those who offered something in the cathedral.
[ This is closely related to his line of work, after all. Dealings with gods, with the divine, with sacrifice. And, hopefully — what everyone wishes for at the end of the suffering. The reward. ]
That's just my opinion, however. There's no way for me to know unless Sleep contacts us directly about it.
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A baseball bat not of this world. Caelus materializes it by holding his hand out, and it shines blue, then takes a physical shape that he can touch. Once he holds it, it looks natural on him, as if seeing two that reunited after a long time. ]
I think you might be right, because I regained thisβ¦
[ It may not be an official confirmation for the plant itself, but this is still solid proof that Sleep is rewarding them for their sacrifices. Though Caelus is glad to have one of his weapons back, he can't fully appreciate it right now because he gained it through horrible means. And he doesn't like the idea of Sleep rewarding them for their pain.
The cake cat senses its master's sadness, and starts trembling against Subaru's hand. ]
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But more than that, he senses the conflict that its presence draws to the surface, the remembrance and the discomfort of knowing his worst actions were rewarded with something that's clearly important to him. ]
Do you regret it, Caelus?
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[ Failing to protect, then landing himself in that situation⦠Maybe he earned these injuries as punishment. It feels horrible to fail to help, especially someone he cares for. That's why he didn't expect Sleep to reward him for it. The thought makes him feel sick. ]
But it already happened, and I can't do anything about it now. I have to⦠be stronger for next time. So, I don't want this to become a weakness of mine. With it, I'll change things.
[ Caelus clutches his baseball bat, straightening up as he looks at Subaru once more. The cake cat eases, feeling both the comfort of the onmyouji and the renewed determination from the trailblazer. He smiles just a little. ]
Never give up, even if I lose.
[ Familiar words. The mood is different from the first time he said it, but his spirit is unchanged. He still means every word. ]
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No one is without weaknesses. But they're important hallmarks for what path you've chosen to take.
[ He doesn't specify in what way — each person is different. Those like Caelus, a trailblazer, use them as beacons to denote what must change in order to become strong. For people like Subaru, a fate-chosen Seal, they lie at the crux of his soul, enshrined. Governance for how he interacts with the world.
Pulling his hands away, he motions to a few more vines he'd carefully extracted from the broken concrete, laying next to the sink ]
There's more, if you'd like to help me replant them. I'm not sure all of them will survive, but it's worth trying.
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Meanwhile, the cake cat decides to curl up into the younger boy's hood, turning it into a cat carrier. ]
Yes, of course! Please, let me help. [ Wait. He just remembered. ] β¦ Oh!
[ Now his hand rummages his messenger bag again, shortly taking out a very recognizable long jacket. It has a pleasant baby powder scent (the smoke scent is gone), and it appears to be treated well, indicated by its clean look and well-folded state.
A familiar sticky note is on it, too. Clumsily written on it, in English it reads, "SUARIU, TAANK YUU! IT WAS RIERY WARM. COMFIE. π" It's signed with, "
CAARUSCAELUULet me go ahead and put this away for you first. Where shall I put it?
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Opting to keep the note where it is for now, Subaru indicates the small cabinet above the stairs that leads into the bedroom. ]
— thank you, those doors there. You can set it on the top shelf.
[ He's going to prepare another bucket, meanwhile...
The interior of the tiny closet space isn't much to look at either, aside from a half-empty carton of cigarettes, some clothing items, the decorative box Aventurine left him, and an old cup full of various writing utensils. ]
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Hey. [ "Muni?" ] Don't "what?" me. Come out of there.
[ "Munimuni. Muu. Myuyu." ]
No! That's notβ [ "Myu, myuu!" ] I said nβ no! Don't laugh at me! Anyway, I said to come out.
[ The cake cat ignores himβ¦ It's making itself right at home in that cabinet, causing the trailblazer to make a "I can't believe this little punk" face. Caelus has to really reach into the cabinet to reach and pull out the cake cat, which lets out some whining afterward. He sets the cat on the floor after, allowing it to play elsewhere than to curl up on Subaru's clean clothesβ¦
Once the cat starts rolling around Subaru's floor to explore the space, Caelus returns to the older man's side and smiles nervously. A bit embarrassed. ]
Sorry about him. Galactic Baseballer Jr. likes to break the rules. I'm actually surprised by how well-behaved he is when you held him earlier! He never sits still like that for me.
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[ Briefly, Subaru and Galactic Baseballer Jr. meet each other's eyes. He smiles a bit. ]
Isn't that so?
[ He watches it puff its body up proudly before leaving it to its adventuring. ]
You made him? [ Subaru turns his attention back to the task, turning the faucet on to wet the soil. ] He has your magical signature.
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You should have seen him after he was born. He messed up my room and ate some of my precious materials. Punk!
[ He worked hard to collect those! What is he going to do now? He'll have to start all over again to find more. But he can't roam around too much yet, since he's still on the way to full recovery. He's still on the therapy part, trying to move his muscles a little more (through these walks) so they can recover better⦠He'll have to wait to restock. ]
Ah, but yes! I did. It seems this is part of my new abilities as well.
Galactic Baseballer Jr. isn't my original creation, though; I have a biologist friend from my universe who designed these creatures. But I know their DNA structures because I work as her assistant, I have created more of them to increase their population, and also further developed them from their original forms.
[ Caelus is impressed that Subaru can tell easily from a glance, but it makes sense that he can. Subaru's really talented as a spellcaster! Galactic Baseballer Jr. is also impressed, so it rolls over to the onmyouji's feet and starts fondly rubbing itself against them, purring audibly. ]
You think Galactic Baseballer Jr. is too long a name? I'm trying to think of a nickname for him. Galaxy? Baseballer? β¦ Baller?
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Babies do tend to navigate with their mouths. [ Uncertain of what something is? Into the maw it goes. Subaru regards its purring kindly. ] Aren't all things that are just born going to want to eat and grow? Even if it's unfortunate for your collection...
[ whose side is this guy on?? — anyway...
Subaru picks up one of the vining stalks and hands it to Caelus to plant. ]
You probably shouldn't call it Baller. [ His opinion is purely professional. ] He looks like a dessert, though. What about drawing inspiration from that?
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[ That's true, huh? β¦ Caelus is suddenly making a "Ξ£(Β° β‘ Β° ΛΆ)" face, looking quite guilty. Guess who shoved weird stuff in his own mouth after awakening for the first time? There were so many things that fascinated this space raccoon on his activation day!
But then it shortly turns into "(β’Μ β€ β’Μ ΛΆ)!!" face when Caelus realizes that Subaru's being biased!? for the cake cat!! Understandable, but still!? Can't stop him from being jealous of the cat. Little punk just got here today! For five minutes!
Galactic Baseballer Jr. keeps purring at Subaru's feet, but takes a short pause to look at Caelus. β¦ "Munimuni. Myuu!" The trailblazer's eyes stare in disbelief after hearing the cat's words, but he attempts not to react. No, he can't look lame in front of Subaru. His heart is a calm leaf on still waters.
Calm. He gently receives the vining stalk to continue working quietly, trying to maintain a zen smile. But his tether is a different story, isn't it? That tether is inconveniently spilling how jealous he is right now. ]
What if I call him Mud Pie?
[ He's not serious. He's just pouting. ]
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(But he isn't kicking the cat off his feet, either.) ]
How about Anko? Or Sesame.
[ So serious, on the other hand. Too serious. ]
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[ The trailblazer has yet to eat food like that, since none of the planets he's been through so far are similar to Japan. But Caelus looks very interested, seems to be really considering "Anko" as a name. Whatever it is, he has a good feeling it's fitting, especially as Subaru picked it out. He trusts his judgment, after all.
Galactic Baseballer Jr. β soon "Anko," starts jumping in excitement and emitting a bright, flowery aura. It seems to like the name, too. ]
I guess he's Anko now, then.
[ "Myu, myuu!" It sounds so happy⦠]
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Anko. [ He repeats. ] It's a popular sweet bean paste used to fill different kinds of cakes and breads. It seemed like it would be fitting.
[ If the near-constant purring and sparkling atmosphere didn't give it away... ]
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Hmm.
[ π’ β¦ Whatever! Caelus is going to concentrate on his task. This is for Subaru's sake, so he has to finish it properly! At the very least, Caelus can listen to Subaru's explanation (therefore, hearing his lovely voice more), and he's content with that for now. ]
I hope that I can get to eat that sometime. It sounds delicious.
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[ As a baseline, nothing scavenged is all that fresh, even packaged, but the possibility isn't zero. There are so few of them that he's certain they haven't uncovered all that there is in a city as big and porous as this. Accepting the cat into his arms, he gives it a brief moment to gloat before lifting it to his shoulder and prompting it to take a seat there. Quietly, with an admonishing boop to its nose: ]
There. Behave, if you can. [ The Okay? is implicit, but seems to do the trick. Casting a glance now to the second bucket of vines, Subaru's expression leans thoughtful. ] If anything, seeing real plant life here has shifted the scale of what's possible...
[ Though he's not certain he'd like to experience something akin to the cathedral's beckoning every time, either. ]
For now, we can place them outside. If they really are Sleep's blessing, then what sunlight we have should be fine.
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Why is it so loyal to Subaru, even though its master is Caelus!?
The real answer is because Caelus's Artificer magic isn't stable yet, but he doesn't know this. In the future, any more homunculi will also be as rebellious, but they'll be more obedient to him once he has become stronger. ]
All right! These are done, so let me help you carry them.
[ Since Caelus's natural strength is impressive, he can carry heavier weights, and thus makes it upon himself to do most of the lifting. He follows Subaru outside, looking around for a nice, safe place to deposit the plants. ]
Maybe I should build a small greenhouse for you here sometime.
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On the way out to the front of the trailer, Subaru shakes his head. It would be a sight to see, but he wonders if the effort will bear enough fruit, both literally and figuratively. ]
If these vines survive, it could be a valuable asset to everyone here. Although I wonder if I'm here enough to tend to them right... I couldn't ask you to put in that much more work, in that case.
[ The trailblazer may not have tapped into his full magical potential, but he's no less an architect for the settlements they've been raising around the city. He is also a light, shaking loose the dust from the disused corners, transmuting what he touches for the better. Around the front door, there's a clear space where he's stacked an upside down milk crate. He spends much of his time outdoors, so if his observations are correct, they should catch the most light there. And as he indicates where Caelus can put them, his expression briefly flickers. ]
...is it really alright? For you to be lifting so much. Your injury still isn't healed fully.
[ It's in the care with which he moves, the intermittent says of bedrest keeping him from his typical travels. ]
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Spoiler warning for Amphoreus going onward (canon updating)
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