[ 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 this…
[ 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. I… I wish I were stronger that time. I couldn't help him at all…
[ 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. ] … 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. 😊" 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 not— [ "Myu, myuu!" ] I said n— no! Don't laugh at me! Anyway, I said to come out.
[ The cake cat ignores him… 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 clothes…
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? … 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? … Caelus is suddenly making a "Σ(° □ ° ˶)" 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 "(•̀ ⤙ •́ ˶)!!" 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. … "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. — 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.
[ 💢 … 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. ]
Don't worry. Remember? I'm stronger than I look. And please, rely on me more— I'm a Trailblazer, after all. This is part of my mission. Even then… I love helping you, Subaru.
[ It's a tiny, happy reminder that Subaru did agree that time when Caelus said the first statement about being strong, back when they first met. It's been quite a while since then… Realizing that, Caelus makes a nostalgic smile as he laughs gently. ]
Time really passes, doesn't it? It feels like yesterday that I met you, but it's been two months…
[ Heading closer to the crate, Caelus carefully puts down the haul, making sure the plants are centered properly on it. His movements are a little slower than normal, but he looks fine for the most part. As long as he doesn't push himself too much, it'll be all right.
Wanting Subaru to worry less, Caelus decides to lighten the mood. ]
I'll tell you something. Mr. Sakurazuka is heavier than these plants!
[ As the plants slot into the spot he made for them by Caelus's capable hands, Subaru is left to think about the bridge of time and distance. Almost no time has passed at all in the scale of things, but the breadth of the experience has left it feeling long in his mind's eye. It's more time than he thought he had, at any rate.
More than he sometimes knows what to do with. And still... days like this are nice, likewise tinged in the soft tones of nostalgia. ]
Yes, it does. And you've been helping me since we met.
[ More than he likely knows. More than Subaru can explain. It's no small feat for someone who's entire lineage fell to him before his age hit the double digits. But his brief reverie stalls, instinctual. Whatever thought he'd almost gotten lost in fades. ]
...Seishirou-san is? [ His head cants as if he thinks he misheard. ] How do you know that?
[ Whether or not Subaru is conscious of this, Caelus wants to say it directly either way. Perhaps all those past words of gratitude helped the onmyouji realize it, but the trailblazer will never pass up chances to remind him of his appreciative feelings. This warmth is real, and he intends to keep it that way.
As the days pass, Caelus's determination to accomplish all he strives for only grows stronger. Seeing Subaru's lightened expression, looking so adorably curious, the younger one easily renews a radiant smile. ]
Also, I'm not the only one who wants this.
[ Rather than explain, it's easier to show him through their tether. How did Caelus know? And who else wants Caelus to be here?
So once the plants are nicely secured, he straightens up and connects their hands. Two hands holding another pair, he gives them a gentle squeeze before he thinks of that day. The memories flash for Subaru. The moment Caelus yells, "Watch out!", the memories are clear. A desperate, but successful escape. The brief bonding on the rooftop. The promise. ]
[ It's strange, how common words feel as if they carry the weight of the world when Caelus says them. Having traveled many — maybe they do. When beckoned, Subaru allows his pale hands to rest in Caelus's as a means of invoking their tether's conduit. Part of him is lost on what he should expect to see following that series of statements... but the tether draws clear most things, and this is no exception.
He almost can't believe his eyes.
Or at least the imprint of sight over his own, detailing the memory. Surprise gusts through him in several shades; not least of all thanks to the incessance of the moon creatures' hunt that Seishirou had tried to hide from him, but the ensuing row, the pipe, the bat, the viscera and the howling, the unceremonious toss that lands the man of his dreams and of his nightmares across the roof of a building like a bug on a windshield. Subaru is somewhat glad he doesn't have to imagine it, because he doesn't think he could on his own. But oh, he knows. Exactly what thoughts prowled the narcotic edges of the Sakurazukamori's sterling propriety in that moment. Instinctively, he tightens his fingers.
Only the following conversation staunches the flow of his emotions. Please look after him. It lances through him with the alacrity of lightning, an anxious static blooming across the back of his neck. The connection shivers with it, shies, knotting the fibers of his heart into a daisy chain of unanswered inquiry. ...Is he always the last to know? What measures Sakurazuka Seishirou will take to close his fist around the hollow of his heart and claim it only when it's too late?
Irony. A brilliance calculated by one of the most skilled onmyouji of their time. Sumeragi Subaru has always been one step behind the Sakurazukamori.
Memories seethe through the gentle cracks, but none quite manifest. Not the Kamui wearing the face of Monou Fuuma. Not the last wish now made second-to-last. Not here, in the wake of sunlight and blessings. Something seems to burn alive on the backs of his hands, but Subaru's skin remains smooth, unbroken. ]
...I see. [ Slowly, as if his tongue is suddenly ill-fit to his mouth. But he finds the strength this time, grip fortifying. ] Thank you, Caelus. For protecting him.
[ The torrent of emotions, Caelus expected them, so he manages to brace himself when it all crashes across the two of them. He won't pretend he understands anything between these two, because he doesn't. He's even more confused after seeing Subaru's memories at the cathedral that crimson night. Because those were obviously not pleasant memories in any way, yet… what is this feeling mixed along their tether? It's complicated, so much so, that the trailblazer can't pinpoint what emotions are present and exactly how many.
But Caelus doesn't need to. He can tell enough that these two are so, so lonely. And they care so much for each other, but they somehow can't extend that properly at all. There's nothing that Caelus can really do but be there. To be right here. That's what he'll continue to do without faltering. To protect these two souls, to give them the chance he promised… Perhaps one day, this uncertain torrent of emotions will transform into something else. So he steps closer to end the remaining distance between them.
Mindful of Anko, Caelus wraps his arms around Subaru's shoulders as he embraces him tightly, squeezing with all his spirit. Perhaps finally, he did manage to repay one part of this delicate onmyouji's neverending kindness. ]
Subaru, you are incredibly loved. I hope you don't diminish that from your heart.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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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 this…
[ 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. ] … 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. 😊" 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 not— [ "Myu, myuu!" ] I said n— no! Don't laugh at me! Anyway, I said to come out.
[ The cake cat ignores him… 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 clothes…
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? … 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? … Caelus is suddenly making a "Σ(° □ ° ˶)" 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 "(•̀ ⤙ •́ ˶)!!" 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. … "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. — 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.
[ 💢 … 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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[ It's a tiny, happy reminder that Subaru did agree that time when Caelus said the first statement about being strong, back when they first met. It's been quite a while since then… Realizing that, Caelus makes a nostalgic smile as he laughs gently. ]
Time really passes, doesn't it? It feels like yesterday that I met you, but it's been two months…
[ Heading closer to the crate, Caelus carefully puts down the haul, making sure the plants are centered properly on it. His movements are a little slower than normal, but he looks fine for the most part. As long as he doesn't push himself too much, it'll be all right.
Wanting Subaru to worry less, Caelus decides to lighten the mood. ]
I'll tell you something. Mr. Sakurazuka is heavier than these plants!
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More than he sometimes knows what to do with. And still... days like this are nice, likewise tinged in the soft tones of nostalgia. ]
Yes, it does. And you've been helping me since we met.
[ More than he likely knows. More than Subaru can explain. It's no small feat for someone who's entire lineage fell to him before his age hit the double digits. But his brief reverie stalls, instinctual. Whatever thought he'd almost gotten lost in fades. ]
...Seishirou-san is? [ His head cants as if he thinks he misheard. ] How do you know that?
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[ Whether or not Subaru is conscious of this, Caelus wants to say it directly either way. Perhaps all those past words of gratitude helped the onmyouji realize it, but the trailblazer will never pass up chances to remind him of his appreciative feelings. This warmth is real, and he intends to keep it that way.
As the days pass, Caelus's determination to accomplish all he strives for only grows stronger. Seeing Subaru's lightened expression, looking so adorably curious, the younger one easily renews a radiant smile. ]
Also, I'm not the only one who wants this.
[ Rather than explain, it's easier to show him through their tether. How did Caelus know? And who else wants Caelus to be here?
So once the plants are nicely secured, he straightens up and connects their hands. Two hands holding another pair, he gives them a gentle squeeze before he thinks of that day. The memories flash for Subaru. The moment Caelus yells, "Watch out!", the memories are clear. A desperate, but successful escape. The brief bonding on the rooftop. The promise. ]
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[ It's strange, how common words feel as if they carry the weight of the world when Caelus says them. Having traveled many — maybe they do. When beckoned, Subaru allows his pale hands to rest in Caelus's as a means of invoking their tether's conduit. Part of him is lost on what he should expect to see following that series of statements... but the tether draws clear most things, and this is no exception.
He almost can't believe his eyes.
Or at least the imprint of sight over his own, detailing the memory. Surprise gusts through him in several shades; not least of all thanks to the incessance of the moon creatures' hunt that Seishirou had tried to hide from him, but the ensuing row, the pipe, the bat, the viscera and the howling, the unceremonious toss that lands the man of his dreams and of his nightmares across the roof of a building like a bug on a windshield. Subaru is somewhat glad he doesn't have to imagine it, because he doesn't think he could on his own. But oh, he knows. Exactly what thoughts prowled the narcotic edges of the Sakurazukamori's sterling propriety in that moment. Instinctively, he tightens his fingers.
Only the following conversation staunches the flow of his emotions. Please look after him. It lances through him with the alacrity of lightning, an anxious static blooming across the back of his neck. The connection shivers with it, shies, knotting the fibers of his heart into a daisy chain of unanswered inquiry. ...Is he always the last to know? What measures Sakurazuka Seishirou will take to close his fist around the hollow of his heart and claim it only when it's too late?
Irony. A brilliance calculated by one of the most skilled onmyouji of their time. Sumeragi Subaru has always been one step behind the Sakurazukamori.
Memories seethe through the gentle cracks, but none quite manifest. Not the Kamui wearing the face of Monou Fuuma. Not the last wish now made second-to-last. Not here, in the wake of sunlight and blessings. Something seems to burn alive on the backs of his hands, but Subaru's skin remains smooth, unbroken. ]
...I see. [ Slowly, as if his tongue is suddenly ill-fit to his mouth. But he finds the strength this time, grip fortifying. ] Thank you, Caelus. For protecting him.
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But Caelus doesn't need to. He can tell enough that these two are so, so lonely. And they care so much for each other, but they somehow can't extend that properly at all. There's nothing that Caelus can really do but be there. To be right here. That's what he'll continue to do without faltering. To protect these two souls, to give them the chance he promised… Perhaps one day, this uncertain torrent of emotions will transform into something else. So he steps closer to end the remaining distance between them.
Mindful of Anko, Caelus wraps his arms around Subaru's shoulders as he embraces him tightly, squeezing with all his spirit. Perhaps finally, he did manage to repay one part of this delicate onmyouji's neverending kindness. ]
Subaru, you are incredibly loved. I hope you don't diminish that from your heart.
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Spoiler warning for Amphoreus going onward (canon updating)
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