Just when lives were about to settle, fate had to step in and it started with Shuuichi firmly taking the reins in monitoring the construction done on the Lighthouse campus. Meanwhile, he began developing some tester batches of his organic, cannabis-infused medicinal products which included the research and development of some pain-reducing, body-relaxing menstrual products. Kiyoni found those experiments embarrassingly hilarious. It didn't come as no surprise just how little Kurama knew about the female body even though one was right next to him. He was on top of his community service role as well, helping out with street cleanup, carpentry, light construction, and group therapy whenever requested. The people he worked with were so inspired by Shuuichi's charm, work ethic, and story that they were convinced to attend Lighthouse whenever they could. Matter of fact, he did so well, he was released from house arrest due to good behavior.
To pass her time, Kiyoni studied for her upcoming college entrance exam while working at the local fitness center teaching pole dancing. Surprise visits from Juri and Shuuichi gave Kiyoni some extra confidence. The mini reunion between Kiyoni, Juri, and former coworker, Ruka, was just as exciting. Thanks to an after-class performance by Kiyoni, Shuuichi was convinced to get that stripper pole. Kiyoni showed her gratitude and honored Shuuichi's partial freedom the very day the pole was installed with a private dance in nothing but flower pasties all over her body with a matching floral crown.
"Kiyoni…" he called after exhaling a mood-enhancing puff of smoke, "you're getting too good at becoming a bad girl."
He watched with desire as Kiyoni swung upside down and around on the pole. She had a seductive smile on her face all the while.
"I know…" she confirmed, "but it's so much fun. Especially when my bad side brings out yours."
Kurama finished the joint he was smoking and got undressed starting with his shirt, "You should watch it, Ikeda. Foxes like myself can get quite frisky when in heat."
Shuuichi made good on his word of opening Lighthouse to religions from around the world both known and unknown. Even though religion isn't as much of a big deal in Japan as it is in any western country, the general belief in a higher or greater power still exists. It started when he and Kiyoni posted fliers about an upcoming Kemetic service going on at the church, the first of its kind. The sanctuary wasn't ready yet but they made due with what they had. Small, lit candles, some throw pillows, a space heater for warmth, and a few Egyptian statues borrowed from Kiyoni's apartment within the confines of cut off construction spots and scaffolding set the scene. Due to a rainy night, only two people, both Black-American immigrants, showed up. It was a start.
"Ankh en Ma'at," Kiyoni greeted with a warm smile, "Welcome. Welcome. Please have a seat. Make yourselves comfortable. Sorry about the…mess. Eh, first of all, welcome to the very first Kemetic service here at Lighthouse. Thank you so much for coming. Eh, it is an extreme honor for your presence despite the weather."
"We heard this place was on the Christian side but we came across a flier at one of the train stations," said the woman who was in her thirties and had traveled from New York state.
"Yeah. We saw the flier and was like, 'Kemetic'? So we had to check it out," the woman's husband was also in his thirties and from the same area.
"Understandable," Kiyoni assured, "This is a first for us as well. Yes, this church is primarily Christian but my genius-of-a-boyfriend over here, Shuuichi, thought it would be a good idea to expand the religious parameter if you will."
"So what could we expect," the husband questioned.
"Well, first, I want to say that I am no priestess as of, like, officially. I've been studying Kemetism ever since I was a child thanks to my mother but have never taken the time to ordain myself in that way so that's one thing."
You're not a priestess, Shuuichi recalled, With all you've been telling me…could've fooled me.
"As a matter of fact, I don't believe that…well, the way I go about it is kinda not like how Christianity is structured. Like a typical Sunday morning service or something like that so that's why we're doing things this way to start things off. That way, as time goes on, we could create some type of foundation or structure and build from there. So for tonight, this is just an introductory session. We can exchange a bit of information, some background information about ourselves, how we came across Kemetism, what do we know about it, eh, what have we learned from it. Eh, maybe share some resources like media, books, articles, things like that that we could get into. Eh, I brought with me some of the statues that I've created an at-home altar with–"
"Oh, how nice," said the wife, "Who do we have?"
"Ma'at, Auset or Isis, Heb-het or Hathor, and Bastet. These are my four main deities that I pray to practically any chance I get. I am thinking about adding Tehuti or Thoth to my collection because I am currently studying to take the college entrance exam and I need all the help I can get so…"
"And are you into Kemetism as well," the husband asked Shuuichi.
"No," Shuuichi answered, "As a matter of fact, I'm a Christian, a deacon. I'm just interested in the practice."
"He's also the head of this very church," Kiyoni slyly added.
The wife gasped, "Really? You're so young…!"
"I thought the same thing," Shuuichi humbly admitted.
"So yeah," Kiyoni incited, "So, if you want, we can start at least, yeah? Sounds good?"
It was good. Both couples learned a lot from each other and were able to walk away with some new perspectives on life. Kiyoni and Shuuichi made mental notes on visiting some of the black-owned restaurants and shops around the city. They simply must try this thing called gumbo.
Other than that, both Shuuichi and Kiyoni made sure to inform each other of their existence in the meantime. A text or sext here, a few TikTok videos there, sneaky link appointments and sleepovers in between, facetiming each other before bed (including one that involved a partner prayer and religious study session)...
"Wait," Shuuichi recollected from his dorm, "You don't pray with your hands together? Why?"
The pair were about to turn in for the night and while Shuuichi knelt by his bed, Kiyoni did the same in front of her repaired altar. It was Shuuichi's idea to engage in a couples prayer.
"No," Kiyoni stated, "Prayers are done with open hands like this. I believe I've said that before."
"Okay but why?"
"Think of it this way. Closed or clasped hands like this, especially in front of the heart, is essentially blocking the blessings from the deity one is praying to. Then there's the notion of prayer hands to the forehead. That's focusing on opening the third eye. An eye that I sometimes don't believe I have or need to use more often."
"A third eye. I've heard of someone with that. An actual third eye. I believe it was called a Jagan. I didn't know such a thing existed."
"That person must have a really clairvoyant view on life and the world. Something we all need to tap into every now and then. Think about it, Shuuichi. When applying anointing oil to your forehead, how does that make you feel?"
"Mmm…I'm not sure if I can describe it."
"Okay, think back to your last confrontation with Shinobu, when you had both the oil and my blood on your forehead. How did that make you feel?"
"Oh, that's easy. I felt more powerful than I could ever be. Especially once that spirit invocation spell kicked in. Is that what you were looking for?"
"...Essentially. Kemetism has the same idea. In a way, Amun-Ra has three eyes. Kinda like the idea of the Holy Trinity. There's the eye of foresight, the eye of Auset, and the eye of Heru."
"That sounds more like God, Mother Mary, and Jesus if you ask me. I remember us discussing something along those lines."
"Well, okay. Sure but you see where I'm getting at, right?"
"Yes…" Shuuichi awkwardly laughed, "I do."
"Suu'chi, what's up? You're blushing. Matter of fact, every time we have a conversation like this, you blush your ass off. What is it?"
"It's nothing, Kiyoni. Really."
"Suu'chi…"
Even though the pair were on a video call, Shuuichi could see that Kiyoni wasn't going to let things go so he came out with it, "Kiyoni, it's just…I like when we talk like this, about religion. It's such a touchy, divisive topic and the way we go about it is…reassuring. Not to mention, seeing your confidence come out through your faith is heartwarming. I may be an outsider and I know you said you were no priestess but from where I'm standing, you sound very convincing."
There Shuuichi went with those words of affirmation again. Words that Kiyoni couldn't help but swoon over.
"Fuck," she mumbled, "Dammit, Minamino. I wanna…uggggh!"
"My apologies. It's only the truth."
Kiyoni threw her head back to hide her own bashfulness, "I know, I know but…ugh. Thank you."
"You're welcome. Shall we pray now? I know you have a busy day ahead of you tomorrow."
"Yes. Yes, let's do that."
Shuuichi clasped his hands together and closed his eyes for prayer, "Dear God…"
Kiyoni did the same but with open palms, "Praise and greetings to our ancestors who came before us, praise and greetings to Ra, praise and greetings to Bes (the god of dreams)…"
"We come to you all seeking your guidance…"
"Your strength…"
"And your blessings. We hereby pray on Kiyoni's behalf as she takes on the day planned ahead of her."
"Help keep me strong, keep me focused, and maintain positivity both in mind and attitude. As we rest our heads and bodies for the night, keep us safe from any and all harm, open our young minds to the possibilities of and hopes for the future, and guide us as we take on another step in our life's journey whether it's through our dreams or within our waking lives."
"We ask these things in the name of the father, the son, the holy spirit…"
"And by the word of Ra."
"Amen."
"Amun."
There were also real dates every now and then. That included more movie nights, lunch and dinner dates, and the opportunity for Kiyoni to (successfully) get her revenge in laser tag. The second trip to Club Morningstar was different as well due to two things. One, the pair managed to get in on legitimate terms since Kurama was Kurama which granted automatic VIP status and two, they were there to celebrate Shishi's birthday. Shishi's pre-booked VIP spot was already ready but Kurama used his status to get the drinks free of charge. It's uncanny how much Shishi acted like a secretly jealous, open-faced brown noser that night even though it was his birthday. With enough liquid courage, Kurama allowed Kiyoni to lead another meeting in the bathroom where she proceeded to commence part two. No handys this time. Just straight sucking and fucking and it was oh so liberating. So much so that the pair took things up a notch.
"Wait, what's that," Shishi questioned while driving.
"What's what," Juri followed in the passenger seat.
"That sound. That…smell…"
From the backseat, Kurama was enjoying the ride quite well as his soul was threatened to be sucked out again.
"Kurama, do you–" Shishi looked back and noticed something wild, "Kiyoni, what the fuck?! What the hell are you doing, are you crazy?!"
Juri snuck a peek, "Wha–?! Holy shit! Kiyoni!"
Kiyoni was so drunk and horny, she couldn't help but help herself to another serving of Kurama. She was going at it as if it was the last time she'll ever get to do so.
"Kiyoni, what the fuck," Shishi shouted, "Do we need to get you a room or something? What the hell?"
"Shishiwakamaru…" Kurama threatened, "if you value your life or this car, I suggest you shut the hell up and focus on the road ahead. Juri?"
"Eh, yes," Juri heard.
"You're welcome to watch. I think Kiyoni is…enjoying the attention."
And Kiyoni was enjoying it as evident by the noises she made and side eyes she was giving Juri. Invitation accepted. Juri kept her perverted eyes on the pair. She's going to have quite the time with her vibrator when she gets home.
Shishi continued to drive in disbelief, "I thought it was my birthday. I want my cock sucked too."
One of the biggest milestones of their relationship was Kiyoni deleting her OnlyFans and Instagram accounts in Shuuichi's presence out of respect for him and their relationship. Another came in the form of hair. While Shuuichi taught everything Kiyoni needed to know about his hair, learning about Kiyoni's was completely new. The products to be used, the styling techniques, the time and patience needed to go through it all. Handling textured hair should be its own collegiate course. Allowing Shuuichi to even touch a strand of Kiyoni's follicle crown was an exercise in trust. So much so that removing Kiyoni's hair wrap one morning became a part of tantric foreplay that led to some energetic sex. Everything was all well and good between the young couple. That was until Lent season started.
"Thank you for letting me stay here," Kiyoni whispered as she entered Shuuichi's dorm, removing her jacket and top.
They had just returned to campus after visiting a movie theater. It was late, the forecast called for overnight rain, and Kiyoni was too far from her apartment. She urged Shuuichi to let her sleep over for a night. They made it to his dorm without disturbing anyone.
Due to the first insurance policy, Shuuichi was able to have a stairwell installed in the ceiling of his dorm that provided instant access to his greenhouse on the roof like a botanical attic. Kiyoni wanted to use the area to end her date on a sweet note but Shuuichi had other plans.
"You're welcome but if you're thinking what I think you're thinking, then it's not going to happen. It's Lent season. Something that I participate in every year."
"Oh, come on, Suu'chi. Of all the things to give up on for forty days, sex had to be one of them? That's so old."
Shuuichi huffed in frustration, squeezing the bridge of his nose, "You have been so persistent about this for a week now. Why can't you respect this personal decision of mine?"
"Because I think it's absolute bullshit. Shuuichi, out of everything we've been dealing with ever since we met, we finally have the freedom to be a couple, to be in a relationship. Sex comes with the territory. Why the hell are you giving that up?"
"One, be grateful because I was going to add a tolerance break along with my celibacy but chose not to," Shuuichi declared as he removed his hoodie jacket, "Two, the first reason why I chose celibacy is because of my faith. As I've said, I've participated in Lent every year since I first learned about it and it's something I'm going to continue to do. Lent is a test of my faith, my devotion to God and as a fellow practitioner of religion, I'm sure you would understand in that regard. Three, I want to know if our relationship is real."
"Real? What do you mean real?"
"Think of the blood pact we made."
"What about it?"
"Did you know that in some instances, the way we went about it is a form of sex magic? Consuming your menstrual blood in wine, offering it to the goddess of love and femininity, the fellatio after that, the…the amount of intercourse we've had since…"
"I…I didn't know that. I swear I didn't. Wait, we had period sex. Now that is a form of sex magic. Hell, it was magical considering the cramp relief I felt. So what's your point?"
"My point is I want to know if our relationship is more than just sexual escapades. When I said the phrase, 'I love you,' I meant it. It's an absolute waste of time if lust and sex are the glue that binds us, wouldn't you agree?"
Kiyoni stood there wearing nothing but her underwear and jeans, hugging herself, "Okay but there's…non-sexual intimacy too. I mean…hello? Physical touch?"
"I get that–"
"Do you?! Shuuichi, have you ever stopped to think about why I've been so persistent?"
"I thought it was because…you wanted to break my resistance."
"Break your… Shuuichi…haven't you realized what's been happening between us within that week?"
"We've spent time together. I know that much."
"Yes but haven't you realized how that time has been spent?"
"What are you getting at?"
"Shuuichi…you…you haven't touched me in a week. I'm not just talking about sex, I'm talking about…" Kiyoni had to change her train of thought due to her increase in volume, "I mean…no hand holding, no hugs, you don't wrap your arm around me like you usually do…you haven't even kissed me like you do. You even pushed me away when I snuck up on you to nibble on your neck. I almost lost it with you then. I thought you would go for any of those things tonight but…you didn't do any of that."
"... I've avoided those things because...I thought that…it would lead to intercourse. It has at times. Don't think I didn't know what you were doing when you played with my ears the moment after I first told you about Lent, you clever seductress. Despite that, now that I think about it, you're right. Intimacy and carnality are not always in tandem with one another nor should they be. We can be intimate with each other with…our clothes on. Doing things from a distance or indirectly can be a form of intimacy. Remember the first time I showed you how to pack a bowl?"
"Yes."
"Remember how close we were and how you felt?"
"...I felt…secure. Warm? …Accepted?"
"Right and I felt nervous but comfortable. To be honest, I wish we would've kept that going while we watched the movie but…"
"Is that why you came up here later that night? To hold me? If so, then why aren't you doing that now? If you say what we did was sex magic, then perhaps it was done out of the need for intimacy between us."
Shuuichi inched his way towards his girlfriend, embracing her the same way as he did the night of the very first sleepover, "You mean like this? I didn't want you to go anywhere not because of the danger but out of my personal satisfaction. You felt so warm and…you smelled so nice…like now. However, think of all the times we've seen each other. From when we first met to how we looked at each other the first time you visited this church. That heartwarming smile of yours every time you see me. The way your voice changes whenever we speak over the phone. All of that gets to me and I appreciate it more than you know. Don't you think so?"
A thunderous murmur entered the atmosphere as the pair got close. Shuuichi kept his hands around the small of Kiyoni's back and rear as he lovingly kissed her forehead, sniffing her hair. The curling cream she wore had a sweet, fruity smell and it was the same one Kiyoni used that memorable night. A flash of an idea developed in his mind to create a botanical-based line of hair care products just for Kiyoni but was quickly dismissed.
Meanwhile, Kiyoni was so horny, she could feel her lady parts quiver and it annoyed her like one would not believe. Even as Shuuichi's thumbs grazed her lower back, Kiyoni could feel goosebumps. She wrapped her hands around Shuuichi's shoulders and gave him baby kisses on his chest. Shuuichi did have a point though. He may have been lacking in the physical department but he touched her in other ways as well. The way those olive eyes observed and educated themselves on her body and hair (paying attention), the way his words spoke volumes both to her and the congregation (words of affirmation), the little things Shuuichi did for Kiyoni including setting up tonight's date (acts of service/gift giving). They were all well and good but it was something about his touch that kept her around.
"Dammit," she uttered.
"I'm sorry, Kiyoni, but this is something I refuse to step down from. This is a test of both my faith and the strength of our bond. I wasn't lying when I said I wanted to see how long we could last. The first week is over with only four and a half more to go. The only thing I ask is for you to be as patient with me as I will be with you."
Kiyoni lifted her head back and met with Shuuichi, "It's not fair. Not fair at all."
"Look at it this way. Right here, right now, this very moment…is an example of intimacy. I'm sorry I've been ignoring you. I didn't realize I was and how it affected you. Look how close we are. We may not be engaging in intercourse but this…isn't this what you wanted?"
"Of course, this is what I wanted but can we…can we do this…in bed at least?"
"Not a problem," Shuuichi backed away a bit to retrieve something from a drawer.
Kiyoni gasped upon the sight, "That's where it was! I practically tore down my apartment looking for that!"
Shuuichi grinned as he handed over one of Kiyoni's leftover bonnets, "Figured you'll need it."
Problem solved, Kiyoni secured her bonnet and got undressed.
"Eh, Kiyoni, what are you doing?"
"What? Okay, so there's no sex tonight but nothing was ever said about me not going to bed naked."
"Eh, Kiyoni, that might be a bit…mm, tempting?"
"Not this bullshit again. Shuuichi, I am not going to bed wearing this. It is absolutely uncomfortable to sleep with a bra on. While sleeping with Rihanna would be a dream come true, sleeping in her lingerie line would be most unpleasant. My body needs to breathe too."
"Okay, fine but you could wear one of my shirts at least. Keep your…panties on."
"Eh, no. My body needs to breathe from head to toe. Again, rubbing clits with Rihanna would be ten times better than having her clothing rub against my clit overnight. Besides, between you and your comforter, I could be nice and toasty."
"Okay. We need to find some common ground here. You can sleep in my bed without your underwear. That's fine but my only request is for you to wear one of my shirts. That way we can still engage in something intimate without resorting to intercourse."
"Sounds like I'm getting the short end of the stick here. The upside is that I get to spend the night with my boyfriend. The downside is the sacrifice of my comfort. I'm already annoyed from a lack of sex. Now I can't even parade my body as is?"
"I'm sorry, Kiyoni. It wasn't a problem the first time?"
"Yes, it was. I just didn't say anything out of respect. We weren't fucking at the time," Kiyoni reached up and opened the ceiling door to the greenhouse.
As Kiyoni gathered her things, Shuuichi protested, "Kiyoni. Kiyoni, come on. Don't be like this."
"Like what? Your boundaries made it perfectly clear and I'm going to respect them. However, you telling me what I can and cannot wear to bed is where I draw the line."
"Kiyoni…"
Kiyoni marched up the stairs, "Goodnight…misogynistic asshole."
Shuuichi sighed as he was left alone. He had every right to stand his ground but he assumed that it was the wrong approach in terms of execution. He went to bed feeling bittersweet about that.
Kiyoni watched as the rain cascaded down the glass ceiling of the greenhouse with little to no lightning and plenty of thunder. She could hear water flow from the glass panels to the gutters to the drainage to the pots that collected it. Shuuichi was all about water conservation. As Kiyoni laid on the couple's special bed in her birthday suit, she felt bad for what she did. Perhaps she could have accepted Shuuichi's terms but the mere idea of censoring a naked body after it's been seen so many times was ridiculous. On top of that, Shuuichi never mentioned anything about his "pajamas". Totally unfair.
Unfortunately, both parties won and lost this round. Kiyoni goes to bed in the nude while Shuuichi remains on track for Lent. The thing that they both lost was the intimacy they just had and desired. A mistake they regretted for the rest of the night. This must've been how Darius and Nina of Love Jones felt. While on the subject…
There was a time Kiyoni indulged in a fantasy from one of her favorite movies. On a break from her dancing class, she made a stop at the church greenhouse where Shuuichi was found studying the inner workings of a hybrid plant he raised. Once she made it inside, Kiyoni said hello to Shuuichi's pet plants, closed the stairwell that led to the greenhouse, and dropped her things where she stood.
"Hello, Kiyoni."
Kiyoni remained silent as she stepped towards Shuuichi, removing his apron and unbuttoning his pants.
"Whoa, whoa," he gawked, "Hello, hi."
Kiyoni kept going, "Hi."
"Wait, what is…what's this all about?"
"Lent season is over with, is it not?"
"Yes. You were there for Ash Wednesday."
"Remember the movie, Love Jones?"
"Some…what."
Kiyoni removed her shirt, "What we're doing…is my favorite part."
In the movie, Nina Mosley, played by actress, Nia Long, is seen entering her apartment where Darius Lovehall, played by actor, Larenz Tate, is found in the kitchen. Emboldened, the actress greets her counterpart by removing his clothing piece by piece much to her counterpart's surprise. It's implied that some love making followed.
"Oh," Shuuichi realized, "I think I remember the scene now."
"So…are you okay with me doing this?"
Shuuichi placed the botanic specimen he was observing down and gave Kiyoni free reign, "Sure. I could use a break. That and…I believe you've earned it."
"Yay me."
The following Easter season was just as fruitful and warm as spring. Kiyoni attended church service at Shuuichi's behest. During mass, members of the congregation performed both the execution and resurrection of Jesus Christ with Deacon Minamino playing the role of the holy one. Kiyoni found it a bit comedic considering that nothing was ever said about the son of God having fox ears and a tail in the Bible. However, Shuuichi did well with what was given. Not only that but the way the fake blood looked on Shuuichi's fit body was really doing something for Kiyoni. It gave her some ideas that she hoped the big guy upstairs would forgive her for.
"You look good with that blood on you," she commented within an arm's reach of her holy man.
Shuuichi was found standing in front of one of the mirrors of the newly reconstructed communal bathroom working on cleaning himself up and blushing, "You're just being nice."
"If I was being nice, I'd help you wipe all that blood off you."
Shuuichi handed off a towel and extended his arms, "Have at it. I think I missed a few areas."
Shuuichi didn't have to tell Kiyoni twice. She nibbled on her bottom lip again as she got to work.
"When you come over tonight, bring that crown with you."
"Why?"
Kiyoni slowly lowered herself down, "Here's a preview."
"Wait. Wait, Kiyoni, what are you–" within seconds, Shuuichi figured things out when he used his best singing voice, "Haaaaalleulah…!"
Kiyoni's favorite part of the day was the holiday egg hunt for the children. As the youth-declared angel of cookies, Kiyoni followed through with her role providing freshly-baked cookies with brightly colored chocolate chips for all the kiddies of the church and surrounding neighborhood. Took her many, many hours to bake so many cookies even with help. As a reward, the kids presented her with a cookie angel in her likeness inspired by Yukina's ice sculpture from the holiday season. Kiyoni couldn't help but gush from the gift, the thought behind it, and people who gave it to her. It made the taste that much better.
To finish off the holiday, Kiyoni educated Shuuichi on the other meaning(s) of Easter when she invited Shuuichi to her apartment where she greeted her man wearing nothing but a pair of bunny ears, a pair of lacy, white thigh-highs, and a cottontail anal plug. She even trimmed her private area into the shape of an egg, using edible body paint to decorate said spot.
"Holy mother of God," he marveled.
"Hey sexy," she flirtatiously replied, "Like what you see?"
"...Y-y-yes. Eh…I take it this means something?"
"I read somewhere that Easter really has nothing to do with Christianity. Easter is really a reiterated version of a goddess named Ishtar and she's all about sex and fertility. Bunnies represent sex and eggs represent fertility. That also explains why there's a slight increase in the world population during the Spring season. While I'm far from ready in terms of parenting, I'm always up for the…baby-making process. Especially when it's with you."
"R-really," like a light switch, Kurama's personality came through, "Is that so?"
"Oh, yes. Despite your good intentions, your performance today turned me on like you would not believe. That's why I gave you that preview. Then again, with the way I'm dressed and with what you are, this actually has the makings of an X-rated Zoo–"
"Zootopia fantasy?"
"You know," Kiyoni blinked out of surprise.
"I attended a children's movie night once as part of a study break in high school. Zootopia was that night's feature. Now, that you mention it, you do make for an…enticingly sexy version of Officer Judy."
"And you would make for a fine Detective Nick. Did you bring the crown?"
Shuuichi held up his end of the deal, presenting his self-made crown of thorns, "Right here. Still don't understand why you asked me to bring it."
Kiyoni adorned her man and grabbed him by the buckle of his pants, "Because I want you to show me…your passion. Jesus Christ."
"Heaven, help me," he yelped as he was pulled inside.
Shuuichi tickled some fancies of his own as well. One of which involved Kiyoni reenacting one of her Instagram videos of her as a nun. Shuuichi's favorite. Instead of performing the fantasy inside her apartment, it was performed at the church…in the confessional.
"Forgive me, father, for I have sinned," she continued in a seductively desperate tone "This is my…first time making a confession."
Shuuichi couldn't help but grin like a Cheshire cat as he held his rosary in one hand while listening to his favorite "nun", "Fear not, my child. You are safe in the house of our lord. Please…lay down your burdens."
"Father, I'm afraid I've been cursed, been plagued with a powerful sin. One that I can't seem to heal from."
"That's very concerning. Tell me more."
"All I know is that…well…I can't control it. Every time I give in, I just…I want to touch myself…over and over and over again. And then, the thoughts…"
"Thoughts?"
"I'm embarrassed to say, father. But I…think about you…quite a lot. I…dream about you any chance I get. I mean, some dreams are nice and normal but…it's the other ones that…drive me to sin. Drive me to…touch myself," Kiyoni begins to caress her body with Shuuichi peeking through, "I think about…the way you look at me, the way you…speak to me. Then, I would imagine the way you would…touch me. Where you would touch me. How you would touch me. How I would want you to touch me, how you would want to touch me…"
Kiyoni is looking way too good in her costume according to Shuuichi. He sees her drawing circles along her nipple while caressing a thigh and Shuuichi licks his lips like a hungry wolf coming across a juicy hen.
"Sister, tell me. How would you like me to touch you?"
"Oh, father! I'm so sorry! I'm sorry I even thought of you that way or even spoke to you about it. Oh, I'm so embarrassed."
"Don't be. I told you. You're safe here. However, I can't be of much help if you're not equally forthcoming. Please continue."
At that moment, Kiyoni broke character followed by Shuuichi just to collect some thoughts and chuckle. This situation was going to be purely improvable moving forward unlike her scripted video. A downside to not being a succubus anymore.
"I…I think I should show you…better than I could tell you," she admitted.
"Would you like to show me?"
"Yes. Yes, Father. May I?"
"Show me. You have my undivided attention."
Was this going to be the time where Shuuichi would watch Kiyoni masturbate? Yes! That's exactly what she did. It started with her revealing her black, lacy balconette bra.
"First, I imagine you…starting here. You…playing with my breasts and nipples. It turns me on when you…tease them…with your hair."
Ears perked up upon that confession, prompting Shuuichi to make a mental note of it.
Kiyoni went on, "Then you would…ease yourself down my body…kissing every inch of my stomach…only to…slowly…remove my underwear."
By then, a lacy thong was removed and dropped on the floor. It had a sizable wet spot that was clear to see. If Kurama had the chance to directly put it on his nose, he would go insane. The scent of Kiyoni's libido was damn near goddess level.
Shuuichi agreed, "That is true."
"Then…you'd widen my legs and admire me from the waist down. You'd nibble and bite and leave hickeys on my inner thighs, arousing me even more as you…mmm…" the point was emphasized by Kiyoni's demonstration, sliding her hands up her thighs and grazing over her center.
Shuuichi sniffed and inhaled every bit of Kiyoni's pheromones through the mesh window. She reeked of nothing but desire and she smelled sweeter than the sweetest flower or fruit Shuuichi had in his greenhouse. It was at this point where the deviant, Kurama, was coming out to play like a hungry predator.
"Yes," he encouraged while reaching for his groin, "Tell me more."
"Here. By now, I'm so…aroused you can feel the heat without touching me. You'd give me a gentle blow as if I was a hot plate. Oh, father, please don't tease me like that."
"I see it now. You're so excited…no, I don't see a hot plate as you say. I see…I see the juiciest, sweetest, most giving and thirst-quenching fruit ever laid before me. I'm willing to bet that it's flowing right now, is it not?"
"Yes. Yes, it is."
"I don't believe you. Please, show me."
Kiyoni reached in between her legs, "Ooh, I feel you. I feel your touch. You're so…so gentle, so warm."
Kiyoni was indeed flowing and Shuuichi could hear it. The gushing noises made from Kiyoni's love pocket were loud and clear to a pair of fox ears. Sounds that could be compared to stirring a small pot of macaroni and cheese or mashed sweet potatoes. It was all to make him "touch" himself as well.
"Yes," he said, "I can taste…every drop. Each one is more delectible than the last. It's like I've encountered an oasis. Sister, I…I think I'm…I'm feeling it too. The…lust."
"Father, is that what it is?"
"It is my child. It's contagious and deserving of its spot on the list of dangerous sins. I think…I think about you…as well. In the same manner."
"Father, are we in trouble? Will we be sent to Hell?"
"No. However…if we don't put an end to these feelings, they will eat us alive. Lust is…indeed a powerful sin."
"What should we do?"
"Come. Come to me and we can both purge ourselves of this predicament. It is in God's will to do so, I will see to it. Now come. I want to…heal your body and purge you of the sin that has plagued you so."
Now it was Kiyoni with the Cheshire cat smile, "Yes, father."
How fortunate for an empty church. The couple went at it in that confessional like there was no tomorrow. Shuuichi's blessed gifts were only accented by Kiyoni's cries of passionate praise. To Shuuichi, it was liberating to partake in a moment like this. At the same time, Kiyoni never thought to engage in anything sexual in a church. However, Lighthouse Tokyo wasn't going to be a typical church.
All of this went on for the time being with little to no trouble and it all worked well…for a while.
Then it happened. On one cloudy, summerlike day, it happened. News of Shinobu's passing spread quickly across campus, devastating everyone. Shuuichi was found standing inside his rooftop greenhouse taking it all in. It was quite lush as the seeds that were planted back in the winter came to life just in time for spring and summer including life-size Venus fly traps and ojigi plants. Vines full of ivy and moss grew along some of the support panels of the greenhouse's windows with the ceiling playing host to some wisteria, clematis, and honeysuckle flowers. Despite the floor being concrete based, it was covered in energized, fertile soil and grass that rejuvenates itself whenever it's walked on. As Shuuichi looked up at the cloudy sky through the windows of the ceiling, Kiyoni found him.
"Suu'chi? I heard the news."
"Yes. He's gone."
"I'm…I'm–"
"So am I."
Kiyoni took a moment to scramble up the right words to say, "...How are you feeling?"
Shuuichi just kept staring, "I'm not sure. I want to feel something. For now, I just feel…empty."
"Suu'chi, you're gonna have to let it go. At least find the good in it."
"I know. I have. Thanks to Shinobu, I'm okay with what I am. Thanks to Shinobu, I'm embarking on a journey that came earlier than I had anticipated. Not for another ten years at least anyway. Thanks to Shinobu…I…I have you in my life. Thanks to Shinobu…I have this. All of this. I'm giving him more credit than I thought I could give him."
"So is it safe to proclaim that Shinobu did win in a way?"
"How?"
Kiyoni took a couple of steps forward with her hands in her back pockets, "He made an impact on your life. It may not have been the way you wanted it but it happened. It may not have been the way he wanted it but it happened. He said he wanted to leave this earth spreading the word and power of God. He did that…through you and everyone else whose lives you may touch. Including mine."
Shuuichi finally gave Kiyoni his attention, "You're no longer angry?"
"I have no reason to be. My brother got his justice. Well-deserved justice and he apologized for that. Ma'at, be praised. He…brought me closer to you, blessed our union. Brought me closer to my family. I have no reason to be angry with Shinobu now. In fact, I thank and forgive him. I wish him well in the afterlife and for Ma'at and God to show him mercy. That's all I can and will do for him."
"That sounds very wise and mature of you."
Kiyoni shrugged, "Well, we all gotta grow up sometime."
Shuuichi huffed and ran his hands through his hair and ears to bring him back to reality, "Yes, Kiyoni. I believe you're right."
"So, what are you going to do?"
"We'll have the funeral here. The sanctuary is in its final stages of completion anyway. It's only right."
"Right."
The funeral went on as planned. This time it was in an entirely different sanctuary than previously known. The glass ceiling was still there. Cherry wood pews were built with plush seating. To conserve space, three sets of pews were reduced to two. The production area was restored and so were all the audio and visual equipment. The only difference was there was nothing remotely pointing to Christianity. No crosses, clear windows replaced stained-glass windows that depicted characters and events from the bible, no images of The Last Supper, no hymnals unless requested, and the confessional area was separated from the sanctuary. It was about as religiously neutral as a non-denominational, progressive place of worship could get and it was all Shuuichi's idea. Keeping up with Japanese tradition, Shinobu's body sat in a wooden box with only the window to his face accessible. He was surrounded by flowers such as yellow and white chrysanthemums and lilies. A large portrait of him sat on an easel in a simple frame. Shuuichi stood next to Yukina, greeting attendees as they walked by and bowed in respect and acknowledgement. Once everyone was seated, Shuuichi began his speech.
It was an honest one. He talked about his childhood and some of his best memories with Shinobu. He talked about the many things Shinobu taught Shuuichi. He learned how to be not only a man but a man of God, a man of virtue, respect, and compassion. Shinobu taught Shuuichi how to ride a bike, learn the alphabet, all of the books of the Old Testament in order, the ten commandments, what to expect when going to school, and how to fight if necessary. Shinobu was truly like a father which hurt Shuuichi even more knowing what came after all of that. However, Shuuichi chose to ignore those details. Shinobu was going home to be with God. He didn't need to be slandered along the way.
After the service, Shuuichi sat alone in Shinobu's office. He did what he could to make it his own but Shinobu still lingered within the walls somehow which soured Shuuichi's mood. There was only one person who could cheer him up and she came knocking.
"Suu'chi? It's Kiyoni. May I come in?"
"Of course."
Kiyoni, dressed in all black, entered and automatically felt the mixed vibes. A spiritual cleansing was definitely needed for the room. She finger-combed through her straightened, bra-strap length hair as she approached the young deacon.
"Service went well. What you said was touching."
"Thank you."
"You okay?"
Shuuichi inhaled, "I will be…once I make this space my own."
"You don't have to, you know?"
"You think so?"
"I know so. This space can be a…storage closet for all I care. You don't have to use it. You have a greenhouse on the roof and a smokehouse underground. Those are your spaces."
"Hmph. I thought I was the wise one."
"You know what," Kiyoni walked behind the desk and sat on Shuuichi's lap, "You need a smile in your life."
"Mission accomplished. I'm smiling just by looking at you."
"Flattering but no. I meant a real smile. A real, heartwarming, tear-jerking smile. And I know just how to give it to you."
"Really? How?"
"First, go to the greenhouse and get a bouquet of flowers together."
"O…kay…then what?"
"Then, meet me out front. I'll handle the rest," Kiyoni rose to her feet and departed, "Hop to it, Minamino."
Shuuichi rested an elbow on the desk, wondering just what Kiyoni had up her sleeve. For as long as Shuuichi knew Kiyoni, she never really surprised him with anything. She will today.