A KanaTyy Collaboration XD
KawaBoru Week: Day Two
Prompt: Travel "Where you go, I go"
Boruto panted as his back hit the brick wall under a bridge, the temporary shelter shielding him from the pouring rain. His clothes were soaked and the long cut on his arm was bleeding, but at least he had escaped his pursuers for the time being. He had known people from the other side would come after him, but he hadn't expected for them to find him so soon after the warp, leaving him less than a few hours to get his bearings. The blond had traveled over a century back in time on a mission to retrieve a lost core. His locator had led him to this secluded village in the middle of a mountain valley, a wide and deep river cutting straight through the center.
No one was outside during the storm so the blond was able to sneak right in without being questioned by the residences. Given how difficult the area was to traverse, he assumed they didn't get many travelers aside from the occasional wandering traders. Thankfully he had secured clothing from this era and his gear was resistant to the elements, he shouldn't run into too many more problems if he worked quickly, but he had run a long way through the harsh mountain lands and his body felt weak. It was crazy how the material from this time soaked up water and it was so cold. There was little chance that he was finding the core tonight.
He sunk down and sat on the ground to rest, head falling back against the brick wall while he caught his breath. Minutes passed with nothing but the sound of rain all around him and he found himself drifting off. When a light suddenly rounded the corner and came under the bridge, his blue eyes snapped open and he scurred to his feet, hand reaching into his back pouch defensively. The figure was tall and covered in a long black coat, holding a lantern just so that made it impossible for Boruto to see their face.
"You must be a long way from home," the man said, voice deep but quiet. "Follow me, I'll shelter you until the rain passes."
Certain that it wasn't one of his pursuers or a thug, Boruto slowly took his hand out of his pouch and stood straight. "Thanks," he responded, accepting the help without hesitation. It was best that he got out of the storm and somewhere warm as soon as possible.
The tall man turned his back to Boruto, holding up the lantern to light their way. The dirt pathway was well-kept, and the wooden home he was brought to promised warmth. The man stripped his cloak once he was inside, revealing himself. He was undeniably attractive, even from a glance, wearing loose black pants and a long black shirt which had no sleeves. His features weren't properly revealed until he wandered into the sparsely decorated and furnished home and lit a few candles.
When he turned to Boruto again, his grey eyes were visible, the flames of a nearby candle reflecting in them and also illuminating his face—a strong jawline, well-proportioned musculature, and an intimidating stance. The roman numeral nine was tattooed beneath his left eye, his right brow and ears pierced. The tattoo had to have some meaning behind it, and it made the blond curious.
"Take off those clothes," he said as he looked over the shorter man.
Boruto couldn't help the heat in his ears at the raven's words, but logically he knew what he was getting at, it had just made his heart beat a little faster. He stripped out of his shirt first, mindful of the wound on his arm and blue eyes remaining locked with grey, the wet cloth soon falling to the floor. Then he removed the pouch around his waist and the one around his thigh after that, setting them both down on a small wooden table. The last thing to go was his pants and the blond had a little trouble pulling them down when they clung to his skin.
"Come," he said, taking Boruto's wet clothes and his hand, then guided him into another room where a fireplace was burning. He didn't release Boruto's hand until they were standing before it, and he knelt down, adding more wood to the fire before looking up at him. "Sit here. I'll get you some dry clothes…"
It was comical how obediently he followed the strangers directions especially when he was always walking down his own path, a leader rather than a follower, but he it was oddly easy to let go and follow this man's directions. Perhaps it was because of his weak and tried condition, or maybe it was that sultry voice.
Nodding his head, the blond kneeled down and wrapped his arms around himself, still refusing to let his gaze wonder from the raven. "I appreciate your help, mister. I hope to repay it before I go." It was a simple kindness but one that Boruto was grateful for in his situation.
"Kawaki," he said, introducing himself as he stood, walking over to the nearest couch and returning with a wool blanket that he draped over Boruto's back. "I'll be right back."
It was softer than he was expecting and he made sure to turn his arm away so he wouldn't get blood on it. "Thanks."
He left for a few moments, and when he returned with clean, neatly folded clothes, he also had a basket with him with various things inside. He came to stand next to Boruto and lowered himself onto the floor, setting the clothes aside and the basket just between them. Without a word, he pulled Boruto's injured arm closer to him, though gently, and rested the blond's hand on his thigh.
"What happened?" He asked, grey eyes lifting from the cut to Boruto's eyes, holding his gaze for a moment before looking to the basket.
"Cut it on my way though the mountains." He told him part of the truth but of course couldn't reveal anything about himself to anyone. For the people he came across, he was just a traveler passing through, a memory that could quickly fade into nothing.
"That so?" Kawaki hummed, tone giving away the fact that he didn't believe Boruto's partial truth. He raised a damp cloth to Boruto's arm and began cleaning the blood away, working on the cut and examining it fully. "It could use stitches."
Thinking it over for a few seconds, the blond agreed to it. "If you're able then I'd prefer to get them." It would help him heal easier and keep the wound closed, allowing him to move a little more freely and save some time.
"I'm able. I'm no doctor, but I have some basic medical knowledge. Perks of injuring myself a bit too often."
Silence passed between them for a moment while Kawaki started working and Boruto watched, brow furrowing the only sign of pain whenever the needle passed through his skin. "I can imagine so. The land here is rough and unforgiving."
"It's not the land, it's the people who wish to prey on those in this land." He spoke calmly as he worked, focused on his task though easily able to speak without messing up. His hands were steady too. "I thought you were here with ill intentions as well, but it doesn't seem so."
"I can see how it looked that way, I was lurking a bit," Boruto said with a small smile, but it was gone as quickly as it came. "Are the people in this village preying on the land?"
"No… it's outsiders. Most in this village are elderly, women, or youth."
That wasn't necessarily peculiar, but it was convenient considering what was hidden here. "What happens with these outsiders? What do they do?"
"Come in here, often with weapons. I can always tell if they mean us harm. They don't get far, no matter how strong they are."
Kawaki was a protector of the village then and it made sense that he had been out patrolling in the rain. From what he could tell, the raven wasn't one to take any chance he wasn't certain of the outcome. "How could you tell I was different?" He asked curiously.
"When your eyes met mine, you didn't look as if you were evil. I could see kindness lingering there, and a bit of fear. I'm aware you would have fought me to protect yourself, but you wouldn't attack me for no reason. That's the difference."
All of that from a glance? He was perceptive alright. "Is your village targeted a lot?"
"Too often. At least twice every moon. I can't make sense of it, we're not a wealthy village. Even our crafts are not grand. Yet they continue to come."
If he had any lingering doubt, Boruto was certain now he was in the right place. The core could bring out the best of kind souls and the worst in evil ones, most unable to resist the pull and call to the collection of energy, seeking it out despite not knowing what they were looking for. It had most likely driven this village to ruin, but history would be rewritten once the blond was able to secure the core, taking it and the village's misfortune with him.
"Mountain bandits and the like, I assume. Sometimes the smallest thing can motivate a person to do horrible things . . ." Boruto trailed and finally looked away, his eyes turning to look into the fire. "It's fortunate that you're here."
"It is," he agreed. "Unimaginable things have happened here. I had to fend for my people from a young age, but I'm happy to be able to."
Kawaki seemed like a nice guy and was friendlier than the blond expected him to be. They fell into silence again and the raven finished up stitching his wound.
"There we go," he said with a sigh and began putting away everything he used. "It's not too bad, and it's cleaned so you don't need to worry about infection."
Boruto gave him his thanks once again before shrugging off the wool blanket and putting on the clean shirt he had been given, the material hanging off of his body. If the shirt was this loose then the pants would definitely be as well so the smaller man decided to cover his lap with the wool blanket and forgo the pants altogether.
"I'm sorry I don't have anything smaller," Kawaki said, though he sounded more amused than apologetic. "Are you hungry?"
The blond's stomach growled at the mention of food, it having been the last thing on his mind. "Yeah, I am."
"Poor thing," he chuckled and ruffled Boruto's hair as he got up, taking the basket and still-folded pants with him. "You can wait here to keep warm. I'll be back."
His affectionate touch caught Boruto off guard, he couldn't remember the last time someone had ruffled his hair, but he had no doubt that it was mother. "O-okay."
Kawaki was gone longer this time, and when he returned he had a bowl of hot vegetable soup and bread. He carried it on a tray with a cup of water as well, carefully setting it down on the floor.
"It wasn't long ago that I had dinner, so I hope this is okay. It's not much, but it's filling."
"It's plenty, thank you," Boruto assured him and then picked up the bowl, mouth watering.
Kawaki sat down beside him once more, watching him silently for a few moments before he asked, "will you tell me what you're doing here?"
After taking a few bites and swallowing, Boruto answered, "I'm just passing through."
"Are you running from someone?" He asked thoughtfully. "Not to sound rude… but there's no reason for anyone to pass through here, so I know you're not being honest."
Not surprised at being caught in his lie, the blond replied, "your intuition is sharp. Yes, I am on the run, but I really can't say more than that."
"I don't believe you're a bad person, so I don't judge you. I know much happens here, and perhaps I've already scared you off, but if you were here, I could protect you too…"
Boruto paused in stuffing his face at the other man's words, moved by the offer given so easily, but it wasn't one he could even consider. "That's sweet of you, Kawaki." He smiled at him despite everything and was glad he had run into the raven.
Kawaki smiled back and averted his eyes, looking almost bashful. "Well, I just… I couldn't forgive myself if I didn't offer you refuge and you ended up harmed, when I could protect you. You shouldn't have to spend your life running. Not even a moment of it. We don't have much, but the people are kind and it's quiet aside from those who come with ill wills."
"I hate to turn down your generous offer, but I have somewhere I need to go," Boruto told him, explaining as much as he was able even though it was wiser not to elaborate at all.
"Oh… I see." Kawaki nodded his head, but Boruto couldn't help thinking that he looked and sounded disappointed by his answer.
He continued to eat his food, wanting to say something to cheer Kawaki up, but unable to think of anything. Once the soup and bread was all gone, Boruto took a few swallows of water before a sudden clap of thunder made him jump, almost dropping the glass.
"Whoa," Kawaki's hands wrapped around his own and the glass. "Are you alright?"
"I'm fine," Boruto insisted. "Just startled. It sounds like it's getting worse out there." It was the opposite of what he needed, but he couldn't control mother nature, at least not in this time period.
"Just a thunderstorm," he said, waving it off as if it was nothing. "It's not supposed to last all night. I think tomorrow will be a nice day."
He sounded so sure of it. "What makes you think so?"
"A hunch." He smiled and shrugged his shoulders. "My gut is usually always right, so you can hold me to it."
"If that's the case then I should be able to head out in the morning," Boruto said and stared out the window. He didn't want to make the kind man disappointed again, but he had to be clear about his intentions.
"You must be traveling a great distance… stay. At least until you're healed. You can't possibly defend yourself against bandits with that injury, and you could risk breaking the stiches. Once you're healed, then you go. I'll make sure nobody brings you harm while you're here."
He would be just fine on his own, but he wasn't sure how long it would take him to get the core, unsure of the condition of the area around it. The village wasn't large so he knew it wouldn't take the time needed for his wound to completely heal. While there were benefits of staying, leaving was the better option and ensured his presence wouldn't cause harm to the residents. Even still, as he looked into hopeful grey eyes that waited for his answer, Boruto found himself unable to decline.
"Alright."
"You must be tired," he said as he stood, taking Boruto's dishes. "Follow me, you can take my room."
The blond got to his feet, taking the blanket with him as he trailed behind the taller man. "We're sharing it?"
"Sharing?" Kawaki coughed. "That's not… I will prepare a cot for myself."
Boruto could just make out the heat in his cheeks and it made him smile again. "I've taken more than enough from you tonight. I insist that we either share or I take the cot, I really don't mind."
"You're injured… and I…" Kawaki cleared his throat and walked a bit faster, not finishing his thought.
They stopped for him to put the dishes away and then proceeded to the raven's bedroom. "It's big enough for two," Boruto observed.
Kawaki stiffened, breath hitching. He looked anywhere aside from Boruto as he collected some extra blankets from the closet and carried them to the bed. "I couldn't possibly."
"I'll take the cot then."
"No!" Kawaki said a little louder than necessary, face flushed when he looked at Boruto. "Ah… I didn't mean to shout… I just… you're my guest."
He was too fun to tease and it was hard to believe that this was the same intimidating man from before. Kawaki had a soft and endearing side, and Boruto liked that. "I understand. But I can't take your bed in good conscience either. I promise to stay on my side, you don't have to worry."
"It's not that I think you wouldn't—" Kawaki huffed, face completely red all over. "Fine… if it means that much to you, we can share."
Boruto knew he shouldn't have been giving the raven a hard time just because he was shy, but it was a nice break and distraction. "Excellent. Which side do you prefer?"
"It doesn't matter," Kawaki answered, pulling the covers back and waiting for Boruto to get in. He still refused to look at him and continued to blush.
The blond took the side on the left and got comfortable, laying on his back and waiting for the other man to settle in as well. When he did, Kawaki made sure to keep several inches between them and laid there stiff as could be. Boruto held back a chuckle and pulled the blankets over them before closing his eyes to sleep. It took a long time for Kawaki to calm down to the point of sleeping, breathing finally evening out, and after a few minutes Boruto snuck out of bed. He quietly and almost soundlessly made his way back to the fireplace, grabbing one of his pouches that he had left on the wooden table. Now that he was safe and hidden from any possible prying eyes, he could check the core's location again and where his pursuers currently were.
During the long and tedious chase, the blond managed to insert a tracker on one of them, but it had come at the cost of his injury. Hopefully the tracker had gone unnoticed and he would be able to monitor their movements. He took out his mass fabricator and activated it, bringing up a hologram that showed his current location and a hundred miles around him in all directions. His pursuers were far to the east and heading north, but he couldn't say for certain that they wouldn't come to the village. Zooming into the village itself, he could see the collection of energy in the air and looked for where it was the most concentrated, soon spotting an area in the river. Boruto cursed under his breath, it was in the middle of the village somewhere.
He would have to come up with a way of retrieving it without being seen, but it was where there would be the most foot traffic of residents, all who would be watching him for one reason or another. At least he knew where to turn his search though and had some time before the members of the other side caught up with him. Boruto turned off his mass fabricator and returned it to his pouch, setting it back on the table before walking to the bedroom. Kawaki was still sound asleep and he snuck back into bed to actually go to sleep this time. He didn't have any trouble drifting off and it was soothingly warm, the sound of the rain outside fading out into nothing.
Unfortunately, over the course of a week, the time traveler made little to no progress. It was unacceptable but unavoidable considering the circumstances. For one, Kawaki wouldn't let him out of his sight. The raven felt obligated to be by side at all times and escort him around the village. Boruto had been able to walk with him to the middle of the village where their main bridge was located, a similar structure to the one he had first taken shelter under, but it was way more grand and larger in scale. Energy was practically pouring out of the bridge and for a couple days he thought the core was sealed inside of it. When he snuck out in the night to investigate further, he had gone to the river's edge and felt a pull from below the water's surface, indicating the core was under the bridge and submerged in the river.
Kawaki had found him before he was able to dive in, literally catching him with his pants down, having stripped to his underwear.
"Have you lost your mind?" Kawaki asked, looking affronted. "You'll catch cold and die if you go in there."
Bortuo couldn't exactly tell him he had equipment to ensure that wouldn't happen and was taken aback by his presence in general. He thought for sure the raven had been fast asleep when he left. "It doesn't look that cold . . ." He trailed, mentally wincing at how idiotic he sounded.
"What purpose do you have coming out here in the middle of the night to jump into freezing water?" Kawaki's voice was louder than usual, tone chiding as he marched over and snatched up the blond's clothes. "Put these on, now."
Boruto took them without argument and got dressed. Needless to say he was never able to sneak out again after that, Kawaki on high alert to his movements, and he got roped into helping the taller man with his daily tasks and chores as long as they wouldn't strain his wound. Kawaki had gotten the blond a few sets of clothes that fit him as well and the people of the village had no trouble welcoming him when he had the raven's word of approval. Boruto didn't mind helping Kawaki at all, however, even if it was a hindrance to his mission. He wanted to pay him back for his kindness, the food, shelter and other necessities that he provided for him. They didn't have much in the village, but Kawaki was willing to share everything he had with him.
He wasn't able to come up with a plan just yet of how to escape the other man's attention and everytime he so much as looked at the river he would receive a questioning glance. Boruto couldn't relax just because Kawaki was nice, he was quick witted and observant too, he had to be careful or else risk exposing himself. Still, it was a pleasant change to be fawned over and he was given wildflowers every now and then. The first time Kawaki picked one for him, he hadn't given it to him directly, instead leaving it on his side of the bed one morning for Boruto to wake up to. A pretty, soft shade of pink, the flower brought a smile to his face and he wore it behind his ear while they ate breakfast together.
The two of them settled into a dangerous routine and Boruto realized it wasn't just that Kawaki was shy, he shy around him because he liked him. What was even more dangerous, was the realization that he returned his feelings. There had been a tension between them since the first night they met and it made a startling appearance one day when they had gone to chop some wood. Boruto was practically healed now, but Kawaki still insisted that he would handle all of the chopping. They had been out for almost an hour when rock came tumbling down the high hills from the mountains and the raven pushed the blond behind a tree, caging his body with his own. They were still pressed against one another when the rocks had stopped and Boruto had looked up at him with a pounding heart and pink cheeks.
"Are you alright?" Kawaki asked, brows furrowed with concern. He was breathless with adrenaline, looking him over worriedly despite not distancing himself from the blond.
"Yes, I'm alright," Boruto answered, swallowing before he added, "and you?"
"I think my back got scraped, but nothing serious," he said, finally beginning to calm. He leaned back, giving Boruto some much-needed space, but only for a second before he had the blond crushed in a hug. "I was afraid…"
"You saved us," Boruto told him and gently returned the hug. Kawaki had acted before he had a chance to move, but who was to say what would have happened if he hadn't.
"What if I hadn't?" Kawaki breathed, holding Boruto a little tighter. "I should've anticipated that… I should've been more careful."
No matter what the blond wouldn't have let his mission end here, but it had been a jarring experience all the same, his heart aching at how regretful the raven sounded. "It's okay. We're okay, Kawaki . . ."
"Forgive me," he whispered and Boruto rubbed his back reassuringly, finding his shirt damp.
"Your back," he said and pulled away, his hand bloodied. It wasn't a lot, but it was enough to have him panicking. "Quickly, let me see it."
"It's nothing," Kawaki said, waving him off. However, he still turned his back to Boruto and tugged his shirt off.
There were a few cuts and one long one, but they were all thin and didn't appear to be deep. It was a relief that it wasn't serious just as Kawaki had said, but they would still need to be treated. "Let's go back so I can play doctor this time," Boruto said lightly although he wasn't leaving it up for debate.
"Play doctor?" Kawaki laughed at that, turning to face him with a soft expression to match his smile. "It's really nothing… but I'm grateful."
He truly was an image at that moment, both his smile and his sculpted body making Boruto's heart skip a beat. When was the last time he ever felt like this? "R-right," He couldn't help but stammer and hated how his ears heated up.
"Let's get going then," Kawaki took his hand in his, wiping both of them with his shirt to clean them of blood as best as he could. Then he retrieved his axe and put it in the cart with the wood he had chopped, pulling it with his free hand as they walked away. "I'm really not worried about a little scratch. Just needs a good cleaning. It's nothing like your arm."
"It's still better if we take care of it as soon as possible."
They traveled back to the raven's home and the blond made him take a seat in front of the fire once they were inside. After gathering the supplies he needed, he came to sit behind him and gently tend to his wounds.
"You really didn't have to go to any trouble… I'm sorry to burden you." Kawaki sat perfectly still as he worked, staring ahead of him into the flames in the fireplace.
"Not at all, I'm the one living off of you, remember? If anything, I'm the burden."
"But you aren't!" Kawaki quickly denied. "I mean… of course you're not… you help me a lot by being here, and besides… you're injured."
Boruto smiled at his response. "Always quick to defend me . . ." He trailed and then added more solemnly, "but my injury is practically healed now."
Kawaki said nothing as he took in Boruto's words, fully aware of the fact. His jaw tensed and eyes closed for a few moments before he asked, "And you must go?"
"Yes," he answered softly. So many people were counting on him, too many to count.
For another moment, Kawaki was silent, and then he sighed. "I see… I understand."
They had become close during this week and Boruto learned a number of things about him simply from watching. He had mastered reading his expressions and knew that most of the time he would speak his mind. Life went at a different pace in this time, but Kawaki made it easier with how he treated him. He willingly admitted how attractive he was and now looking at his muscled back as he treated his injuries, he couldn't help but admire him. Boruto had experienced things in the past week that he never would have back home.
Life was so fragile here, though just as precious. The routine was more laid back than he was used to and while it was a nice change, he didn't belong in this time, he couldn't afford to belong. There was still an attachment and fondness he had for Kawaki despite the man preventing him from completing his mission. No matter what he took care of Boruto and what happened today just reiterated that fact. Of course people had risked themselves for him before, but it was never like this, never motivated by romance. It made him feel flustered and more aware of his own growing feelings. He had learned it was better to take action rather than to hesitate from his experiences, the future wasn't a place where you could take things for granted. Not anymore.
They sat in silence while Boruto finished cleaning the scratches on Kawaki's back and if he left his hands linger a few times, no one was to know.
"Do you think… maybe you would return one day?" Kawaki asked softly, hesitant but needing to know.
The last thing Boruto wanted to do was lie and have the raven sitting here day after day waiting for him. "I don't know . . . probably not," he answered, gazing falling to his hands as he rested them in his lap. "I'm sorry."
"You have no reason to apologize," Kawaki said, but the anguish in his tone was unmistakable. He got to his feet slowly. "Thank you for treating me."
Boruto felt so guilty and hated making him feel that way. "For what it's worth," he began and made himself look up at the other man, "I'll never forget you and everything you've done for me."
"Please… you don't need to bother trying to console me." Kawaki sounded frustrated, a slight tremble in his voice. "Thank you again," he said and then walked off quickly.
This was why Boruto had wanted to avoid people in this era in the first place, but even so he didn't regret meeting Kawaki. He gave him his space and stayed by the fire for a good while, lost in his own thoughts, but when the fire started dying it snapped him out of his daze and he added more wood to it. It was dark out now and the blond quietly went to the bedroom to see if the raven had gone to sleep. Peeking through the door, he could see Kawaki's form in the darkness and it appeared that he was sleeping. Boruto closed the door again and took the opportunity to get back on track. Settling in front of the fire once more, he took out his mass fabricator and looked at the tracker. It wasn't active anymore and had been discovered by his pursers, but the last signal it sent was close to the village. Too close.
"What is that thing?" Kawaki asked, having walked up without a single sound, standing just a few feet away. "That's…" His eyes were wide, staring at the fabricator and the hologram in awe and shock.
"Shit," Boruto cursed and turned it off, feeling like an idiot for getting caught. He was speechless and unsure how to handle the situation. One person discovering his identity wasn't the end of the world, but multiple would be a problem and he didn't know how Kawaki was going to deal with this.
"Boruto?" Kawaki looked to him instead, brows furrowed. "Talk to me… I don't understand."
"I-I . . . this is going to sound insane, but . . . I need you to promise me," he told him, making up his mind to come clean, hoping he would understand and stay true to the man he knew him to be. "Promise you won't tell a soul. It's very important."
"You can trust me… I just want to understand, Boruto." Kawaki walked over to kneel on the floor next to him. "I have never laid eyes on something like this before."
He seemed to be excited and the blond would take that over paranoid or on the verge of a mental meltdown anyday. "It's like a map, but way more advanced. And it can do so much more . . . I came here to retrieve an essential item and I must find it and take it home. My people need it to survive."
"Oh," Kawaki was still amazed, and sounded somewhat concerned and relieved at the same time. "There was an image… how? How could you create something like that?"
"It's complicated," Boruto chuckled nervously and scratched the back of his head. "But I suppose the short answer is that it's powered by energy. Uh, you probably don't know what that is either . . . it's like . . . like life, it can bring life to things. We've learned to harness and control it where I'm from . . . in another time. I don't know how to put this gently so I'm just going to come right out and say it. Kawaki . . . I'm from the future."
"From the…" He trailed off, staring at the blond quizzically before he began laughing. "You're silly."
Freaking out was still a very high possibility and Boruto was hesitant to continue. "I'm not joking, unfortunately. What you saw is just a time part of what's to come years and years and years from now."
Kawaki's face fell and he looked to the floor, confusion clouding his features. "That's impossible… why would you… no… I don't think you're a deceitful person but…" he shook his head. "It doesn't make sense. You can't be from the future."
"Time travel isn't possible today, but it is in my era. I know it's practically impossible to believe and I sound like I've lost my mind . . . but I need to find what I came for and then return to my own time."
Though he looked as if he wanted to argue, Kawaki just opened and closed his mouth a few times before saying, "Fine. Then I'll help you."
"You will?" Boruto smiled at him and was so relieved and happy that he threw his arms around the raven's neck, capturing him in a hug. "Thank goodness!"
Kawaki nearly fell back in surprise, but he wrapped his arms around Boruto's waist and buried his face in his neck. "You sound so happy…"
"That's because I am," he laughed. Things would be much easier with Kawaki on his side rather than the man unknowingly sabotaging him at every turn.
His words made Kawaki relax and the man suddenly pulled him into his lap, holding him tighter. "Then I am happy too." He lifted his head just enough to nuzzle Boruto's cheek with his own in an affectionate manner.
The action made the blond blush, but he didn't make any move to put some distance between them.
"You could've requested my help from the beginning… I would have supported you all along."
That was hard to believe. "You're saying if I had come clean that first night, you would have believed me and helped?"
"After I tended to you and ensured you were well rested… if you told me, then yes."
"You couldn't have possibly, I was a total stranger," Boruto insisted.
"So?" Kawaki leaned his head back to smile at him. "I have always felt that I should trust you… from the first moment I saw you."
Boruto wasn't sure what to make of his words and didn't know if it was his instincts or his intuition giving him confidence. "And if I told you that what I needed was somewhere in the river?"
"So that's why I've caught you trying to dive in there despite the fact that it's winter?" He clicked his tongue and laughed. "I would gladly take that dive instead of you."
"That's sweet of you, but I have to do it," Boruto told him. The other man wouldn't know what to look for and didn't have the knowledge on how to use the blond's equipment.
"I don't want you to become ill. You could catch a cold." Kawaki frowned. "Isn't there a way for me to go instead?"
It was cute how the raven wanted to take everything on for him, but this time he couldn't let him. "I'm afraid not."
"Still… I'll do what I can," Kawaki promised him with a soft sigh. "Even if I can only warm you up after…"
Boruto would expect nothing less and leaned back to smile at him. "Thank you, Kawaki."
They stayed wrapped around one another for a few minutes before the blond's stomach growled and they parted to eat dinner. With the truth out in the open, it felt like a weight had been lifted and the two of them were closer. Boruto was happy he didn't have to lie anymore and Kawaki was glad that the shorter man was finally letting his barriers down. That night they laid closer beside each other then before and neither had any complaints about it. Boruto liked being taken care of instead for a change and he liked being with Kawaki, feeling as if he was treasured and thought of constantly. It was going to be hard to let everything go and say goodbye.
Kawaki woke the next morning while Boruto continued to sleep. A small, soft smile had taken to Kawaki's features and he tenderly brushed Boruto's blond bangs aside, thumb gently sweeping over his forehead. Silently and carefully as to not wake him, Kawaki got out of bed and made his way to the washroom. After waking himself properly with his morning bath, he went into the kitchen to prepare some breakfast for himself and Boruto.
While he was absentmindedly stirring a pot of porridge, a knock sounded on his door, and his brows rose in surprise. It was early, just after dawn, and no one ever disturbed him at his home unless it was in regards to an urgent manner. Removing the pot from the flames of the cooker and snuffing them out, Kawaki wiped his hands and made his way to the door hastily. When he opened it he found three strangers standing there in dark grey cloaks.
"Have you seen this man around here recently?" A woman asked and held up a painting, but it was colored and way more advanced than anything Kawaki had ever seen. Little did he know it was a photograph.
It was a perfect image of Boruto, his sleeping blond. Kawaki was stunned, but he quickly remembered Boruto was being pursued. "I have not. I am the one keeping a watchful eye on this village… I have never seen that boy."
One of the men spoke in response, warning him, "this man is a criminal. You'd do well to stay on guard."
Kawaki didn't believe them for even an instant. "I am always on guard," he said. "We don't welcome strangers carelessly here, so I will also have to ask that the three of you go on your way."
They glanced at one another before the woman gave the raven a nod and they turned around to leave. Kawaki watched them walk away momentarily before closing the door and making his way to his bedroom. Boruto was still sleeping soundly, but Kawaki knew he would want to know they had come, so he sat on the side of the bed and carded his fingers through his blond hair.
"Boruto, wake up," he called.
The blond hummed before cracking his eyes open sleepily. "Morning."
Kawaki smiled softly before spitting it right out. "You have pursuers who came here… I told them I had never seen you."
Boruto sat up quickly, sleepiness gone and mouth set in a frown. "They'll stop by every house searching for me . . . I doubt they'll leave until they're sure I'm not here."
"They will?" His expression hardened into one of annoyance and he stood once more, walking over to the closet to grab his black cloak. "You stay here. I'll make sure they go on their way… or else."
"Kawaki, it's too dangerous. If they're provoked then they'll turn to violence, with weapons you've never even seen before," Boruto told him and got up out of bed.
Kawaki laid a hand on his left shoulder and forced him to sit right back down. "You're not going to show yourself. I'm not going to try and engage in confrontation with them, I'm merely ensuring they leave these innocent people alone because that is my duty. You aren't here, and it's going to stay that way."
Boruto couldn't really argue with him when he put it like that and the people in the village depended on Kawaki. Even though he was worried, he knew it was the right thing for the raven to do. "Well . . . alright, I won't try to stop you. Just be careful, okay? If something happened to you . . ."
His features softened at Boruto's concern and he gently ruffled his already messy blond locks. "You needn't worry about me. Breakfast is ready," he said, letting his fingers trail down Boruto's cheek, thumb caressing it affectionately. "Go ahead and eat. I'll return shortly."
Boruto found himself leaning into his touch with no desire to ever move, eyes falling closed.
Kawaki leaned down and pressed their cheeks together, breathing in deep and slow. "I won't be long," he promised and then pulled away, covering himself in his cloak on his way.
The blond watched him go with a bad feeling in his stomach, wishing that he could go with him, but all he could do was wait and worry.
Kawaki quickly learned that Boruto wasn't wrong. As he ventured outside and walked through the village, he found the pursuers approaching the house of an elderly lady who lived with her granddaughter.
"Excuse me," Kawaki called to them. He didn't intend to get confrontational, but he wouldn't allow them to disturb or possibly harm his people.
The three strangers paused and turned to look at him expectantly.
"I asked that you three went on your way, and that request didn't include you scaring my people. You don't exactly look friendly."
"We're not looking for trouble, but we're going to get our job done. After we ask around then we'll be on our way," The woman told him.
"I didn't ask, and it's not up for discussion. I've told you to leave, and I'd appreciate you being cooperative."
"Yeah? Well how about you be cooperative and stop interfering with our manhunt," One of the men snapped.
"I was plenty cooperative," Kawaki said with a sigh and took a few steps closer. "You're trespassing on my land. Now, leave."
Both the man and woman looked ready to make a move, but the other man in the back put a hand on their shoulders. "This is a waste of time and he could be getting away as we speak. Let's just go for now and use our other methods."
They considered his words for a few seconds before dropping the tension in their postures. "Very well," The woman agreed.
Part of Kawaki honestly didn't want to let them go, but he knew it was for the greater good, so he said nothing more and merely watched the three of them leave the village. Once they were gone, he went around checking on everyone personally before making his way back to his home to check on Boruto.
The blond had just finished his breakfast when Kawaki walked in. "They're gone," he assured Boruto, wanting to ease that concerned crease between his brows.
While he knew they would still be lurking around, the shorter man was glad the raven had made them leave without either one of them resorting to violence. "I'll need to lay low for the time being. At least for a few days."
"Yes," Kawaki agreed right away. "That's for the best. I couldn't handle something happening to you." He knew he couldn't have a full understanding of the situation, but he desperately wanted Boruto to be safe. Kawaki closed the distance between them and pulled Boruto into his arms, holding him tightly. "I'll protect you to the best of my ability."
His declaration had the blue-eyed man flushing, but he let himself be held and snuggled his face against the raven's chest. "Nothing is going to happen to either of us," Boruto promised softly.
"You're right," Kawaki sighed and rubbed the blond's back in long, reassuring strokes. "Is there anything I can do while you're laying low here? I feel bad that your work is being prolonged… but at the same time, I'm selfishly thankful."
"You know, I don't really mind so much," Boruto confessed quietly even though time was of the essence. He couldn't deny how much he enjoyed Kawaki's company and the dare he say comfortable domestic life they were sharing together made him long for something he couldn't have.
"Good to know I'm not boring you too much," Kawaki mused and unthinkingly dipped down to press a kiss to the top of Boruto's head. It only caught up to him that he'd done so after the fact and he dropped his arms. "Ah… sorry I—" he trailed off, flustered at showing his affections so freely, and when he knew those feelings he harbored would never bear fruit. "Forgive me…"
"No, it's alright," He assured, brushing a stray strand of blond hair behind his ear as a wave of shyness crept over him. When had the other man's crush gone from cute to making Boruto feel bashful?
"It's not, I—I don't mean to make you uncomfortable… or in any way make things more difficult for you." He took a step away and palmed at his face before raking his hands through his hair. "I don't want you to get hurt…"
It was clear Kawaki understood his position and knew the consequences of their actions, it was too risky for what ifs. "Right . . ." Boruto trailed and wasn't aware that his disappointment was showing on his face.
Kawaki stood stock-still, not reaching out despite his desire to do so, voice cracking slightly as he admitted, "Even still, you make me a selfish man… and I don't want to let you go. I want to claim you as mine and keep you here by my side forever. I've never felt this way before… so please… don't look like that."
The confession had an intense heat returning between them as they stared at one another, the same heat as when they had first met and Boruto had stripped in front of the fireplace. "You do?" He whispered, unable to explain why he was so desperate to hear him say it again.
"I do," Kawaki said with a confirming nod. "I want that more than anything."
Boruto swallowed and held up his hand, hovering in front of the raven's chest. "What . . . what if I said I want that too?" He couldn't believe his own words and knew they were cruel, but he had to let Kawaki know how he was feeling, that somehow he had fallen for this man and wished that they could be together.
"Then I'd want to hold onto you even more," he admitted honestly, lifting his hand to Boruto's, pulling it to rest on his chest, right over his pounding heart. "If I could keep you, or remain by your side, trust that I would. Always."
"Kawaki . . ."
"Would it be so wrong… for me—for us to be selfish just while we have the opportunity?" He asked quietly.
There was no way Boruto could tell him he was wrong, not when it felt so right and they were baring themselves to each other like this. "If we didn't then . . . then I know I would regret it for the rest of my life."
Kawaki squeezed his hand over his chest gently and then closed his eyes as he breathed in. "So would I… and I don't want to live a life full of regret. So… if you'd have me, I'd like to have you for as long as I can."
Taking a step closer, the blond released a shaky breath before responding. "I'm yours."
That was all Kawaki needed to hear to take him into his arms, to hold him with every fiber of his being, to kiss him with all the pent up emotions brewing within him, as well as all the affection he harbored for the blond.
Just like that, they melted into one another, two beings from different times, falling and falling, becoming one in every way humanly possible. What they felt for each other had come about so quickly, and it was so strong that it was impossible to ignore. Despite both of them knowing that one day far too soon they would have to let go, they were unwilling to waste the time they did have.
Later that night, as the two laid in bed together, Kawaki stroked his thumb lightly over Boruto's knuckles, their hands resting on the bed in the only few inches separating their bodies. They were both tired by then, and sated in the best of ways, yet neither of them could find sleep.
"I hope you won't hate me… once it's over." Kawaki wanted nothing more than to focus on their current time, but the future was looming over them both, threatening to whisk Boruto away at any time, and Kawaki had never been so terrified of anything before.
"I could never hate you," Boruto assured and turned his head for a moment to softly kiss his knuckles.
Kawaki hoped that was true, though he still felt guilty. Being torn apart was going to take a toll on both of them. Leaning over, Kawaki kissed his forehead and then released his hand to tuck his arm around him and pull him flush against his body. "Thank you for everything."
"I've barely done anything." The blond smiled along with a little chuckle. "I wish I could have done more. And you were the one that did so much for me, truly. Thank you, Kawaki."
"I don't know," he mused. "I've just never felt like this… so happy and just… smitten."
"I noticed the way you looked at me," Boruto confessed. "And I told myself not to get any ideas, I didn't think I would lose reason . . . but I lost to you and I'm glad I did."
"You say that now, and I only feel more guilty. We might be soaking up a bit of bliss now, but…" he didn't even want to think of it anymore.
Boruto leaned forwards to sooth him with a kiss before closing his eyes and snuggling against his chest. "I know," He whispered, "hurting you makes me feel guilty too and I wish I could take it all away. I'm just as responsible for what happens next as you are."
"Forgive me… I don't mean to focus on that right now. There's no preventing it, but I want to enjoy what time I have left with you, so no more dreadful thoughts."
The time traveler couldn't agree more and did his best to shake the solemness from his heart. Making the most out of their time together, the next week was filled with moments cuddled up by the fire and making love in bed, doing any and everything together with a desperation in the back of their minds that they didn't want the life they were creating together to end. Of course Boruto had to remain inside to ensure that his pursuers wouldn't catch wind of him. He had given Kawaki a cloaking device to place near the bridge, masking the core's presence for the time being, but it wouldn't last forever. Eventually the day for Boruto to leave came and he couldn't afford to stay in the past for any longer.
Kawaki took him to the bridge late at night and reluctantly let the blond dive into the river, protected from the freezing temperature by technology the raven didn't understand. The river was a lot deeper than Boruto had been expecting and the core was situated at the bottom, a smooth blue pebble that fit perfectly in his palm. A core could be any item and appear completely worthless, but the energy it possessed and absorbed was unparalleled. He brought it back up to the surface and was immediately wrapped up in a cloak Kawaki had ready. It was strangely silent between them as the taller man carried him back to his home where a fresh set of clothes was waiting.
Boruto dressed in front of the fire while his lover stood behind him wordlessly, time running out too soon and heart aching. He could feel the loss and heartbreak from Kawaki without even turning around to see his expression, knowing that it mirrored his own. Blue eyes filled with tears when Kawaki pulled him into his embrace, grip tighter than it ever had been, never wanting to let go. Boruto laid his hands on top of the ones over his stomach and gripped them with all his might to show his own resentment towards the situation. He couldn't leave his people to their approaching ruin and destruction, he had so much to do and so much to fight for, but his heart wasn't in the future anymore. His heart was with Kawaki.
"Things will be better for the village now," he finally spoke up, trying to focus on the bright side of things when all he wanted to do was drown in the darkness. "People won't be pulled here by the core's power . . . there will be peace at last."
"Peace…" Kawaki breathed, wanting that for everyone. "You're doing a great deed, Boruto… I'm proud of you, and grateful."
The tears fell down the blond's cheeks and he was glad he couldn't see him, the raven's face tucked in his neck. "Kawaki . . ."
"Hm?"
"Thank you for being born."
Kawaki's breath hitched and he held Boruto tighter still, unsure how he could ever possibly let go. "It is I who should be thanking you… You somehow complete me. I never knew how much I was missing before I found you."
It was unfair that they hadn't been born in the same time period when it was obvious that they belonged together. Boruto turned around in his arms, unable to take it anymore and held the taller man's face in his hands, asking him a selfish question. "Come with me?"
Kawaki was far too weak to be given the option, nearly caving and agreeing to go in an instant, but he forced himself to hesitate and think logically. "Who will protect my people…"
Swallowing hard, he said, "I can't promise that nothing will ever happen . . . but it won't be anything like it has been once the core returns with me, strangers won't be drawn here with hate and ill will in their hearts. I know it's wrong of me to ask you to abandon them when I won't abandon my people for you . . . I-I know that makes me a terrible person . . . but I . . ." He didn't want to go back knowing that the past was over, Kawaki was dead along with the life they shared, everything would be gone except for his memories. He wasn't strong enough to live with that.
"It doesn't make you a terrible person," Kawaki said, raising his right hand to caress his cheek affectionately. "You're doing so much, not for your own gain, but for the good of everyone. For the world. I trust in you… more than I've ever trusted anyone, but even if the village would be more safe… I know nothing of the future. I can only imagine how it would be for me to try and fit in."
"You know me and that's all that matters," Boruto told him as he leaned into his touch and stroked his cheeks with the pads of his thumbs. "I'll teach you everything."
"Doesn't that sound a bit too good to be true? Surely there's a catch." Even so, Kawaki was considering it, because he wasn't sure he could handle losing Boruto.
Of course there was, Boruto would be in big trouble for messing with time and bringing someone from the past to the future, but he was prepared to face the consequences and fight for the man he loved. "It doesn't matter, anything is better than leaving you behind. Please come with me."
"I want to say yes, more than anything," Kawaki admitted with a small smile. "Would it be so wrong of me to seek the approval of my people before going on a journey with you?"
Boruto shook his head quickly, willing to agree to any condition if it gave them the chance to be together. "Hopefully they won't be upset about being woken up so late . . ."
"Well I… I didn't consider that. I'm sure it will be okay since it's important. At least we could consult the elders."
"Okay," He said softly before capturing his lips in a sweet kiss. "I'll beg them to let me have you."
"Y-you don't need to go that far," Kawaki whispered, blush evident even with the lack of lighting surrounding them. "But I will plead my case as well as I can, too."
The two walked hand in hand to visit the elders, Boruto fully prepared to beg just as he said he would, but even Kawaki didn't need to do any coaxing. As soon as he mentioned the prospect of traveling with Boruto, he was reprimanded for hesitating and urged to be free.
Think of yourself for once, Kawaki. Everyone reacted the same, and Kawaki was touched. Travel with the one who brings you happiness. We will be fine here.
Though it saddened Kawaki to know he was leaving his people behind, while they had been all he knew in the world before Boruto came along, getting to be with his lover meant so much more to him.
"I'm ready," Kawaki told him after gathering the only few items he wished to bring along. He was content with starting anew. With Boruto.
Grinning brighter than he ever had in his life, Boruto took hold of his hand with the resolution to never let it go. "Let's go start our forever."