Title: Fast Forward to the Stars
Author: Yukio Sunshaine
Fandom: Nurarihyon no Mago
Pairing: Yoru (Night!Rikuo) and Rikuo Nura (Day!Rikuo)
Rating: T
Disclaimer: I own nothing from Nurarihyon no Mago. I only own the plot! I hope you guys enjoy the ride anyway!
NOTE (PLEASE READ): This fanfic is AU. No selfcest or anything. They totally live on separate worlds. And yes, this is SHOUNEN-AI. No flames or anything of the sort. I've already warned you.


CHAPTER 21 – REACHING THE RIVERBANK


Surprised and conflicted beyond belief, Rikuo laid his back on the bed the moment he entered his room. A sigh escaped his lips as his eyes stared at the ceiling, his expression to that of confusion.

He could have easily chimed in to the conversation between Yoru and Wakana if only the former hadn't shown such vulnerable mien. It was a side Rikuo had never seen before. So even the great yakuza lord had his down moments. But the important question that ran laps in Rikuo's mind was: Why?

He had seen Yoru smirking playfully, teasingly or when he actually smiled genuinely. He was also able to witness how much a frightening and deadly yokai he really was. He had seen those blood red eyes of his filled with variations in emotion; Rikuo's favorite emotion from Yoru's eyes was whenever he showed his sincere romantic feelings for him… as embarrassing as that sounded.

But a bittersweet expression? Never… until earlier.

Rikuo had no idea what to feel or do about this matter. Should he be upset? Hurt? Worried? Should he even take action? The last time they argued, it ended on bad terms that led to a sequence of very unfortunate events.

He admitted he was at fault for lacking trust in Yoru when he needed it the most, but it was also Yoru's fault for being too prideful and oversensitive. He didn't have to exaggeratingly react and act that way—

The brunet shook his head. Let bygones be bygones. That was in the past. For a moment there, he almost forgot that he was the one who talked about moving forward earlier to Nurarihyon and Yoru in the first place.

Definitely easier said than done, he thought as the back of his hand rested on his forehead as he let out another sigh. He guessed that Yoru and Wakana were already wondering why he wasn't downstairs yet by now.

He didn't feel like going downstairs anymore. His heart couldn't take it.

No matter how much self-reflection and preparation he did to take on his new life, it seemed he was still yet to move forward from that one incident from the past that forever changed his life. The wounds and traumas from before were still fresh.

Yoru and Rikuo lived from completely separate worlds before, but now, they were closer to one another than ever before. They were still unaware of it at the moment, but they were already on the same wavelength regarding their emotions ever since last night's events. It was evidence of their connection in each other's lives.

But it was also their own emotions, particularly of insecurity and pride, which hindered them from fully realizing that connection.


Rikuo's guess was right: Yoru and Wakana began wondering why he was taking too long upstairs.

They both exchanged concerned looks. Wakana thought Rikuo might have accidentally fallen asleep, while Yoru thought that too at first, but memories of last night crept in his mind and he suddenly felt paranoid.

Yoru swallowed but quickly regained composure to prevent Wakana from getting the wrong idea. He was certain there wasn't any other presence inside the residence, but he was still worried about Rikuo nonetheless. He glanced at her nonchalantly and said, "I'll check up on Rikuo upstairs."

Wakana nodded. She noticed he looked a lot better than earlier. A thought crossed her mind that perhaps he wasn't the type that usually shared his feelings so openly to someone, hence why she barely knew anything about him.

She also wondered if that was the same case for Rikuo.

The crimson-eyed yokai then walked up the stairs and opened Rikuo's room without knocking on the door. When he saw the brunet lying his back on the bed, he felt instantly relieved. He was perfectly calm now.

"So this is where you are," Yoru mentioned as he sat on the edge of the bed, his back turned from Rikuo. He knew what he said was obvious, but he needed to reassure himself that this was reality, and not those paranoid scenarios playing inside his head.

Rikuo stayed silent. If this had been a scene from their lives before last night's incident, he could have casually snapped a snarky remark because Yoru played the role of Captain Obvious. But tonight, he wouldn't risk it, not when they were still on the process of recovery. He learned how Yoru was high strung the hard way.

"Hey, Yoru. I want to ask you something," Rikuo said instead. He wished he hadn't opened his mouth at all. Trying to ask Yoru about what happened earlier with Wakana was far worse than a pointless snarky remark.

Yoru blinked. "Sure, go ahead."

The brunet opened his mouth, his heart pounding like a bass drum from nervousness. So, I saw you and Mom talking downstairs… What did you guys talk about? Because, um… I've never seen that expression on your face before. He paused. Did it have something to do with me? With us?

"…"

That was what he should have asked, but he had second thoughts so he stopped himself. Luckily, he recalled another question he actually wanted to ask Yoru about earlier. It was actually more like addressing a concern rather than something to be inquired about.

Deep inside, Rikuo was torn because he was desperate to know the story behind Yoru's bittersweet expression, but he knew better than to be selfish again. Sometimes, there were some things better left unsaid.

"…Did you feel something weird while we were on our way back earlier?" he finally asked. Rather than the weight being lifted off his shoulders, the burden became much heavier to bear.

Yoru's eyes widened in surprise. "You felt it too?"

Rikuo wished it had been a false alarm, but unfortunately, it wasn't. When was the last time he had ever been lucky?

Couldn't they catch a break? Even for just once?

He then proceeded to continue the discussion about it anyway for he was clearly aware of its significance. It was for everyone's safety. "It was only for a moment, but the feeling was unmistakable."

Yoru's eyes darted to the door sullenly. "…Yeah."

It was one troublesome problem after another. The crimson-eyed yokai resisted the urge to sigh. He barely had any problems of this magnitude in the past. And when he did come across such situation, he simply faced it head-on and prevailed. That was the way of the Nurarihyons… centuries ago. They lived in the modern day present era; the time period that proved to be very challenging. It would seem that one of Yoru's hardest trials… was keeping up with the times.

Both of them felt the conversation enveloped in a grim atmosphere. Then again, they were talking about possible upcoming hazards courtesy of aggressive clans of yokai.

Rikuo sat up as he felt a pang of regret in his chest, cueing Yoru to face the brunet. "I just really didn't want Mom to worry…" He gulped as he stared at the floor nervously, his mind swirling with undesirable scenarios he absolutely didn't want to happen. "Did I make the wrong move, Yoru?"

The brunet became paranoid and nervous rather than confident and determined, the display he showed previously. Yoru hadn't even noticed it since he was just as concerned regarding the matter as well.

He could see Rikuo doubting his decision and maybe even regretting ever making that decision after being so adamant about it earlier. To clear the brunet's head, Yoru rested his hand over Rikuo's as he gazed at the brunet with an earnest expression on his visage, to Rikuo's surprise. Yoru had as much magic in his touches as Rikuo.

In reality, he was subconsciously copying how Wakana comforted him earlier.

"Did I ever stop you even when I felt the same thing you did?" Yoru uttered. He wasn't mad, irritated or annoyed. His voice was gentle and comforting to the ears. It was a nice and relieving change from the initially dark tone of their entire conversation.

"I care about Mother too, you know," he added. Rikuo went wide-eyed. This was the first time he ever mentioned about caring for someone else besides the brunet. That was certainly a surprising change coming from the typically egoistic yokai. "Besides, it's best to just prepare ourselves for the worst case scenario." Yoru's lips cracked into a smirk— the first bright expression in their entire tête-à-tête, like the so-called light at the end of the tunnel. "We're so thirsty for redeeming ourselves against that damned fox that our guts became desperate to tell us what's coming ahead."

Their gut feeling as a forewarning and advantage to the near future? That little tidbit didn't sound so bad.

"Yeah, you're right," Rikuo agreed. Yoru oozed so much confidence it made Rikuo's heart skip a beat. The attractive charisma was definitely there, not that he would ever admit it. Yoru didn't need to hear it since his head was big enough.

The next mood should have been romantic, but apparently, Yoru couldn't read the atmosphere when his curiosity took over instead.

"Now it's my turn to ask a question since I answered yours," Yoru uttered, wearing a rather stern expression across his features.

The hairs on the back of Rikuo's neck stood up. He had a bad feeling about this. "W-What is it?" Oh no. Did he find out I saw him and Mom talking? he thought, his mind currently in a state of panic, so rationality and reason was out of order for the moment.

"Something piqued my interest earlier…" Yoru began.

Oh, God! He does know! Rikuo internally screamed at the other's implication. And just when things were finally beginning to lighten up…

"Uh-huh." To show that he was attentively listening, the brunet nodded a little too fast as he smiled nervously. His panicked state caused him to think of the words to say if Yoru did find out Rikuo snuck up on them, even if done accidentally.

I didn't mean to! I mean, I haven't even heard a single thing! It's just that... I've never seen you pull off that look on your face before and—

"What's a contact lens?"

Rikuo blinked. "Eh?"

"…What?" Yoru raised an eyebrow. "I'm certain I heard you say that odd item to Mother."

Trust Yoru to be serious if it had something to do with a contact lens. Rikuo felt a wave of relief wash over him since Yoru was curious about something else. He was safe. And speaking of contact lens, Yoru's inquiry gave him an idea.

He grinned at Yoru. "I'll show you tomorrow!"

The crimson-eyed male tilted his head. The puzzled look on his face made him look like a child despite of his actual age. Age really was just a number, especially in the realm of ayakashi.

"Huh… Okay."

And it was after that exact moment when he had a hunch that his clan needed him. If he stalled more time here, he was sure that one of his subordinates would fetch him. He wasn't fond of being escorted since he preferred to be independent with regards to his life outside the clan.

"It seems it's time for me to go back to the main house. Is that alright with you, Rikuo?" Yoru asked. Because if Rikuo wanted his company, then he wouldn't mind staying over for the night. He could excuse himself by telling his clansmen that they could have time to discuss the matter that they were concerned of any time of the day. But then, that was wishful thinking. Rikuo had too much pride to ask such a request from him.

Rikuo was surprised that Yoru actually asked permission even if it wasn't necessary. After all, his clan was his life so he perfectly understood if his clan wished to summon him back to the main house. "Well, I'll sleep in a bit after watching a few shows on TV with Mom, so it's fine."

"Alright then." Yoru leaned in and brushed a chaste kiss on Rikuo's lips in one swift motion. "Actually, I'd be more than happy to spend the night with you, but duty awaits. I'll be seeing you tomorrow then, love."

Both the formality and sincerity in Yoru's words caused Rikuo's cheeks to fluster. He covered half of his face with one hand because of his heart thudding wildly in his chest. "Geez, a simple 'good night' will do!" He also noticed that the other had been referring to him as "love" lately. What should he address Yoru then? Sweetheart? Honey? Darling? As if.

A flustered Rikuo was truly always an enjoyable view to look at as a warm smile crept onto Yoru's face. "Good night, Rikuo. I love you."

The smile was contagious. And so very charming—that if Yoru stayed for five more seconds, he wouldn't be able to stop himself to kiss him. "Good night, Yoru. I love you too." He still felt embarrassed saying those three words, but at least he was getting the hang of it better than before.

Yoru wasn't going to jump out the window this time, but rather, bid his farewell for the night to Wakana first before finally leaving the Nura residence for the night.


"Yoru-sama!"

Voices shouted his name in chorus excitedly and frantically as their leader as he finally arrived back in the main house. Tsurara, Kurotabō, Aotabō, Kubinashi and Kejōrō ran up to Yoru to formally welcome him back. These five were his most trusted aides in battle, as well as his closest friends in the clan.

"Took you long enough," Zen greeted in his own way, his arms folded as he leaned against the wall while being surrounded by excitable and restless yokai. "Everyone's been waiting for you." He was also one of his closest friends, but he preferred to stay on the sidelines given his weak and declining health.

The poisonous bird yokai cocked his head as if someone was or should be behind Yoru, but there was no one there. He raised an eyebrow, while the rest wore confused and puzzled faces.

"What?" Yoru narrowed his eyes at everyone staring at him. How did he become the center of attention all of a sudden?

"Where's the newbie?" Zen clarified in the form of a question. Tsurara made a face at Zen as if to say that that was the inappropriate way to address Yoru's other half. He scowled. "Er, I mean Rikuo-sama?"

He recalled the time when he and Tsurara pulled a harmless prank on Rikuo and his friends that went overboard when Yoru coincidentally arrived. The leader ought to be thankful that they were the ones who brought them together, even if it was by complete accident. Who would have known Rikuo lived in Ukiyoe as well anyway? Well, that didn't matter anymore since time had long passed since then.

He was curious to see how much Rikuo had changed when they last met, since he was one of the few who was able to have the honor of meeting Yoru's most beloved. He and Tsurara had been busy fending off curious yokai from flooding Rikuo with questions back in Kyoto, so he hadn't had much interaction with the brunet at that time.

"He's with Mother at their residence," the sandaime replied as he linked his hands together, the sleeves of his hakama covering them. "Is there a problem?"

No one answered him as everyone just exchanged looks. Yoru was clearly left out, even though he was supposed to be their leader.

When he knew they were going to remain silent, he harrumphed as he made his way through the halls and to the living room where everyone else had gathered, the yokai that greeted him at the entrance foyer quickly followed.

"Hey, Yoru!" Nurarihyon greeted with an irritating playful grin plastered on his face. "I hope Wakana-san wasn't too angry about what happened. She's too young to lose hairs because of you young ones!" He let out a hearty laugh.

Yoru's lip twitched. That was what she exactly said to Rikuo earlier, and was maybe implied to him as well.

It would seem that his grandfather was the only one who remained indifferent to the strange atmosphere inside the room. Everyone in the clan was present, including the members who had been part of the Hyakki Yakō since Nurarihyon's days.

"What's everyone's deal?" Yoru glowered, clicking his tongue as he sat down on the floor, growing more irritated by the second.

And before he blew a fuse, Tsurara stepped up to provide him with answers since everyone else wasn't good with words and would probably just end up infuriating their leader.

"Everyone's wondering why Rikuo-sama isn't here. He's a new member of our clan, right?" she explained, her amber eyes filled with just as much curiosity as the rest.

It was a known fact that any member was free to stay in the main house as part of their allegiance to the clan. So to see Rikuo, the human lover of Yoru who turned into a yokai after being bathed in the blood of a thousand yokai, was back at his human residence was somewhat a disappointment.

Yoru was silent. She made a good point. And he hated it when others were right.

"He might be a yokai now, but I assume he'd prefer to go on with his life when he was still a human. He's a headstrong and unyielding boy. He won't give up his previous life that easily, I guess." He let out a sigh. The more he compared his generation to Nurarihyon's, the more annoyed and frustrated he felt.

"But he is no longer human… It doesn't matter anymore," Kurotabō stated bluntly. "So why should he still bother to pretend to go on living as a human?"

Another valid point taken, only exasperatingly.

This was exactly the reason why Tsurara should be the only one to talk in times like these.

Whispers then began to echo the room. Yoru heard all sorts of things from his clansmen talking to one another—

"When will the rest of us meet Rikuo-sama, then?"

"Shouldn't it be obvious that he stays with us from now on? He loves Yoru-sama too, right?"

Tsurara, Kubinashi, Kejōrō and Aotabō were trying to hush the whispers but to zero success. Yoru was nearing breaking point already.

On the other hand, Hitotsume, Mokugyo Daruma and Gyūki traded solemn glances with one another. They were all on the same page, thinking about the exact same problem. But before they said or did anything about the matter, they knew it was best to see the boy for themselves first.

Nurarihyon knew Rikuo personally so he didn't care about what anyone thought of him. He already gave his say about the entire matter to Yoru before this issue was even brought up.

See, Yoru? I'm always right, he thought proudly to himself as he inwardly smirked.

Yoru was about to throw a fit by silencing his clansmen when his peripheral vision noticed Gyūki raise his hand. He simply stared, meaning he was allowed to speak.

"I'd like to suggest something regarding about this matter, Yoru-sama…"


Rikuo awoke to the sound of his cellphone ringing at his desk beside his bed. He reached out to his cellphone with his eyes still closed. He could barely think at all since he was still sleepy, but as soon as he heard the familiar voice talk over the line, he became a lot more awake.

"Nura-kun! About time you answered!" Kiyotsugu shouted, his voice expressing sheer relief and joy. "Did you have any idea how many times we've tried to call and text you? What have you been doing all this time?"

Rikuo stifled a yawn. Now that Kiyotsugu mentioned it, Rikuo had never bothered to check his cellphone ever since his trip to Kyoto. He didn't even check its screen when he answered the call to see the shocking number of missed calls and messages from his friends.

"I never had the chance to check—" He brought his cellphone with him in the trip, but because he had been too preoccupied dealing with a yokai boyfriend while entertaining his Mother that led her to just worry about him again, he forgot he had a contact device him with him in the first place. "Sorry about that."

"Oh, so you don't care about us anymore. Is that it?" Kiyotsugu mimicked a sob. He hadn't realized it, but he was a great actor. That was why everyone was baffled when he decided to become the director of the play about the Hyakki Yakō instead of taking the lead role.

"Come on, you know that's not true." Rikuo frowned, even though he knew the other was just joking. "I'm really sorry. I got too distracted. I did say I was going to make it up to you guys, right?"

"I know, I know. You should make it up to us when we get back to Ukiyoe!"

Rikuo's face brightened up a bit. That was a comforting thought in the midst of everything that had happened in his life so far. "Really? When are you guys going back?" he asked. Hopefully, their company would quicken his recovery from the trauma he suffered from that particular incident in Kyoto.

"We're in the train station already. Expect us later to arrive at Ukiyoe later," he answered while everyone was watching him with anticipation. They had been just as concerned about their friend as Kiyotsugu. "Wait, how about you? Where are you right now?"

"Here in Ukiyoe. I just got back from my own trip yesterday."

Kiyotsugu laughed. "Isn't that flawless timing? It just so happened I have many things to tell you from our trip, Nura-kun. Good things! Evidence!"

The brunet felt nervous when he suddenly thought that maybe it had something to do with the events with Hagoromo Gitsune, but in a city as large and vast as Kyoto, he couldn't imagine that to be the root cause of it.

His lips parted into a smile. "We should all meet up later, then."

The self-proclaimed leader of their squad went silent over the line for a minute, taken aback that Rikuo was the one who actually suggested they all hang out instead of the other way around.

"Sounds perfect." Rikuo could imagine a smile on the other's face as he said those words. "We'll see you later, then. Peace out!"

Rikuo ended the call as he stared at the ceiling, smiling to himself. He was relieved and overjoyed that each and every one of his friends were safe and sound. He made a bet with himself that they had tons of fun in that trip. He couldn't wait to hear each of their stories.

…But would he actually have his own story to tell them?

It was definitely impossible to tell them his tale when he was kidnapped by a fox yokai and was bathed in the blood of a thousand yokai that changed him into a yokai, so that was one story crossed out.

And speaking of being changed into a yokai, he quickly got up from his bed as he recalled something obviously different his appearance. Crap, my eye!

He had to buy himself contact lenses to hide the golden color on his left eye and at the same time, it would be a good opportunity to bring Yoru along so he could finally be enlightened about it. It was hitting two birds with one stone.

Afterwards, he got out of bed to fix himself for the day. He wore sunglasses to cover that one distinctive different color on one of his eyes. It was summer, so wearing them was perfectly reasonable.

Wakana was watering the plants under the unforgivable heat of the sun. She noticed Rikuo in another outfit, and that only meant one thing: he was ready to go somewhere.

"And where are you going this time, Rikuo?" she asked, her eyes narrowed at the other who just finished eating breakfast. She would never forgive herself if something happened again to her son because of the freedom and space she gave him.

Rikuo blinked. "Huh? I'm going to Yoru's place. I'm going to buy something and he'll tag along with me." He had no idea what his own mother was thinking— it showed in his face. And things were better off that way.

She sighed, because of both the heat and her utmost worry for her dearest boy. But since he wasn't going anywhere the rest of the summer, she thought she could let him off the hook this time. He was going to Yoru's place, so that was already fine. She then wondered what the crimson-eyed boy's place was like…

"Alright. Just update from time to time through your cellphone, okay?"

"Sure, no prob." Rikuo grinned. He was on his way to the door when he remembered something. "Oh, right. I almost forgot. Kiyotsugu-kun and the others are heading back to Ukiyoe today. I'll hang out with them later too." A pause. "If that's fine you, Mom…?"

"If it's them, then I don't mind as well." She nodded. "But if you ask me, your friends and Yoru-kun should meet!" She suddenly got excited by the thought. "Wouldn't it be lovely if you all spend time together?"

The brunet wore a fake lopsided smile. "Oh, sure. That'd be great sometime." Yeah, I should introduce my friends to the leader of all yokai. That way, all of Kiyotsugu-kun's fantasies will finally come true! he thought sarcastically to himself.

Even though he didn't want his friends to be left in the dark, it was for their own safety and protection to keep Yoru and his clan away from them, so they could continue on with their daily normal lives.

Because Rikuo's life was anything but normal now.

"Anyway, be leaving for now. See you later, Mom!"

Rikuo then made his way to Yoru's mansion. After everything that happened, it felt like a lifetime passed when he last walked in this street. Did it have something to do with being a yokai? Nevertheless, he appreciated the mundane sights his eyes recognized as he walked down the street— from the lampposts, to the posters, to the houses, and even to the cats sitting lazily on the porch...

His appreciation had to be paused for a while as he finally reached the other's place, his so-called "main house". He hadn't seen other yokai inside aside from Tsurara. Maybe they have been ordered to hide themselves from Rikuo for some reason.

He recalled all the yokai from yesterday jumping around in excitement and trying to start conversations with him. They were a lively and playful bunch and he greatly enjoyed their company, even if there was a better time to get to know them.

Now he couldn't understand why they were supposed to be feared by humans. Not all yokais were dangerous and frightening.

Huh… Rikuo blinked. That's new. I never thought of it that way until now.

And before he questioned himself even further, he stopped himself. He reminded himself that there was another priority at hand. He was then about to knock on the door when someone opened the door first.

Two pairs of eyes met: Rikuo's and Yoru's.

They were amazed how coincidental this all was, but maybe it wasn't much of a coincidence as they thought.

Still, they couldn't help but smile at each other warmly and lovingly at one another.

"You should get yourself a phone, Yoru," Rikuo joked. He could definitely suggest it since they would regularly meet, but as far as he knew, yokais and human technology were incompatible.

Yoru smirked. "Nah, I like this way better."

And I rest my case, Rikuo thought amusedly to himself.


Yoru's arms were folded behind his head, looking straight ahead. Even he felt like it had been a while since they walked together like this in the peaceful town of Ukiyoe.

"So… you're saying you're going to buy those contact lenses… from an optical provider?" he asked for clarification, looking as clueless as ever.

"Basically," Rikuo hummed.

"And you put that thing… over your eye?"

"Uh-huh." Rikuo thought he was talking to a child, but then, Yoru was a child at heart. He was still growing. "Most people use contact lenses to clear their blurry vision or as an accessory." He fixed his gaze at Yoru. "And people don't mind your eyes because they think you're wearing contact lenses yourself."

"I see." Yoru nodded. "Humans are interesting creatures indeed." Especially in this particular time period. His old man was missing out.

Rikuo chuckled. "You've barely touched the surface of how interesting humans can be." He could tell Yoru all about the wonders of technology in the 21st century… or just about the highlights of the 21st century itself. And that would be about it— because he knew there were boundaries between the world of the humans and the realm of the ayakashi.

So he found it really amazing that they could still have strong feelings for each other in spite of their completely different upbringings… and worlds.

"The same goes for your knowledge of us yokai." Yoru smirked. "We're also quite an interesting bunch, more so than what those ancient scholars have written about us."

The brunet pondered. He was already a yokai now, so he had the right and obligation to know all about his new species. If the knowledge he knew of humans was nowhere near enlightenment, then what more if he was to know about yokai?

A small smile formed in his lips. "I hope you can teach me all about our kind, then… Yoru-sensei." He couldn't help but snigger at the honorific.

"Oh, I very much intend to. My husband-to-be has to know about his own culture and history of his kind, after all—"

"Oh, shut it!" Rikuo's face flushed. Again with the marriage implications. He was too young for crying out loud! Though he wasn't exactly rejecting the idea... But still!

"Are you seriously going to put that in there?" Yoru asked nervously.

"For the millionth time, yes! So, just stay quiet and let me concentrate—"

"No, wait! Stop!" A pause. "Are you sure it's safe?"

"Huh?" Rikuo narrowed his eyes at the other. "The heck are you talking about?" Oh, whatever. He rolled his eyes as he proceeded to do the deed, much to Yoru's anxiety.

A moment later, the brunet blinked, letting out a relieved sigh. "It kind of stings a little…"

"This is your first time, right?"

"Obviously. I'll get used to it eventually."

Rikuo looked at the mirror to see his left eye back to its normal color, but the rest of his eye was irritated from the foreign object inserted in his eye. He looked back at Yoru to show him what contact lenses are made of.

"The power of contact lenses!" he cheered.

"Amazing." Yoru stared into Rikuo's eyes. "It's as if nothing changed. No one will know the difference." He was staring a little too close and a little too much, the color on Rikuo's face turned into a shade of red.

Yoru's distance was too close for comfort, and a voice at the back of Rikuo's told him to kiss him on the spot. He immediately shooed the temptation away the moment he realized he had even thought of doing such a thing… in public no less.

He shoved Yoru's face away from him. "Aren't you a little too close?" He sighed as he touched his face that was confirmed to be hot. So even Yoru could be painfully oblivious at times. "We got what we came for. Let's go." He didn't know where they were going, though. Back home? It was too early. That meant he had to think where to go, unless Yoru had better ideas.

Rikuo's red face gave Yoru all the answers he needed as he followed the brunet with a playful smirk.

The cashier of the store who witnessed the entire exchange on the other hand, hadn't heard a single word they said because of the distance, but felt embarrassed and secretly happy about how close the two boys were.


They still had plenty of time to themselves. Their feet led them towards anywhere and nowhere. Rikuo was still trying to think of a good place for them to go to pass the time, while Yoru was just waiting for the other to talk because he looked like he had something to say.

Soon, the brunet gave up and looked at Yoru, hoping he could have ideas up his sleeve. "So, where do you want to go?" he asked. "I can't think of anything, uh… unless you want to go back already?" He was quite impressed with himself with his choice of words. Yeah. Be considerate, Rikuo. Think of Yoru's feelings for once! It was the least he could after everything Yoru had done for him.

"Hmmmm…" Yoru cupped his own chin and began to come up with ideas of his own. Surprisingly, it didn't take long before a suggestion came to mind. "How about we just walk until we reach the riverbank? We'll talk about ourselves while we head to our destination." He smiled. "I want to know more about you, Rikuo."

Rikuo had to hold his chest because he felt like his heart was going to fall out and explode on the ground. You should be illegal, Yoru. I'll have you arrested for breaking in and stealing my heart so many times already, he thought. I don't think I can take any more of your love. He took a deep breath to prevent tears from breaking out. Did he really deserve someone like Yoru after all this time?

His efforts failed when he became overwhelmed by his own emotions. He turned away as he wiped the tears prickling at the back of his eyes with his sleeve.

The fast pace of the events alerted Yoru as he immediately tended to the other, placing his hand on Rikuo's shoulder. "What's wrong, Rikuo?" he asked in the gentlest voice possible.

Here was Yoru, being so caring and loving to an average guy like him. Sure, he was nice to him the moment they met in spite of Yoru being a yokai. That reason was too shallow at first. But love was a concept impossible to understand in the first place.

He hadn't realized how truly lucky he was until that very moment.

Someone else would have loved to be in his position; to be loved and cared for, to be the one who would make his world go round, to be the one he preferred to the spend the rest of his life with…

Rikuo buried his head on Yoru's chest as he begged himself to stop crying in front of the other to no avail. He didn't want Yoru to get the wrong idea so he explained as best as he could instead with all the tears running down from his eyes.

"It's just that… after everything we've been through, you still love and care for me the way you always did. I know we have our own share of problems, but you're trying your best for us. Your love is too much for me that I don't know how I'd bear with or without it. I just don't know how I got so lucky and… and…" His breath hitched. "I'm sorry for giving you so much problems, and for just having me in general. But still, I want you to know that… that I love you so, so much, Yoru."

Yoru caressed Rikuo's hair all this time while he cried his heart out. Rikuo crying was the last thing he expected in their impromptu date, but this was a good thing. This was the perfect way to vent out all the emotions he had been trying to keep to himself. At the same time, he got to know Rikuo better. He was able to achieve his goal in no time at all.

After he let the brunet cry some more, he felt like it was his time to give his say about the matter. "If you ask me, you should stop thinking of yourself as lucky." He cupped Rikuo's cheek, smiling tenderly. "Luck isn't what brought us together. I believe that we've always been meant for each other. Destiny. Fate. Whatever you may call it." He brushed Rikuo's hair upwards and pressed a kiss on his forehead. "I'm glad I fell in love with you, Rikuo. Having you love me back is everything I'll ever ask for. There's no one else I'd rather love for the rest of my life. I mean, why else have I never been in love with someone else before you?"

Once again, Yoru had managed to tug Rikuo's heartstrings. "…Yoru, please. Can you just stop? I don't want to go on crying forever, you know." In the midst of the tears, Rikuo was able to muster a smile.

Yoru smiled back. "Right."

Rikuo cried for about ten minutes more before he was finally able to stop. After such an emotional display, he didn't want to look at Yoru and avoided as much eye contact with him as possible. He could imagine Yoru with horns and a tail that represented his mischief and cockiness to be able to see the other cry for him like that.

The brunet dug his hands into the pockets of his pants while they walked together in comfortable silence. Meanwhile, Yoru felt happy for he was able to know even a small gist of his beloved's feelings.

"So, Yoru…" Rikuo muttered. "What do you want to know about me?" He shot a glance before quickly looking away again.

Yoru could start with the basics, like the date of Rikuo's birthday and ask him stories all about his family, but his mind was able to come up with a different question instead… and it was to him, a very important and essential question.

"Why'd you to go to Unmei that one time two years ago?" Because Yoru never saw Rikuo again even after he visited the shrine where they first met from time to time for he had hoped he would see the other again until he found out he was in Ukiyoe where his main house happened to be located as well.

"Huh? It was for a kendo tournament during my middle school days. Haven't visited since then." Rikuo's lips puckered as he decided to throw the question back at Yoru. "And you?"

"I recruited a couple of yokai for my Hyakki Yakō. They were really tough but I still managed to beat them," Yoru pointed out. "And I came across that shrine because I was looking for something to eat. And get myself a couple of souvenirs." His peripheral vision noticed Rikuo glaring at him. He smirked and shrugged. "What? You think I actually did it? Just so you know, I really wasn't able to do those things because I got myself the best souvenir of all."

Rikuo stared deadpan at him. It was his silent way of saying, "And what would that be?"

The crimson-eyed yokai took the other's hand. "I'll always remember that place because it was where we first met. The souvenir was the memory itself," he stated.

Crying actually did Rikuo a favor since he didn't feel like he was always on the verge of breaking down anymore. He was far from being completely better, but it had been a small but significant step towards recovery.

A smile was present on his face rather than tears as he held Yoru's hand back. This brought back memories of their first meeting. It felt nostalgic.

Somehow, Yoru's hand didn't feel so cold anymore. But little did he know that he actually felt that way because his hand was just as cold as his.

And after that, they talked about all sorts of things about themselves to one another. Yoru talked about what he and his Hyakki Yakō had been doing the past couple of years before he incidentally found out that Rikuo lived in Ukiyoe as well. Rikuo, on the other hand, talked about the kendo championships he joined and won in. He also talked about his circle of friends, or more commonly known in his school as the Kiyojuji Paranormal Investigation Squad.

Yoru was amused of the fact that there were still humans out there who were fascinated about yokai. And before he even came up with funny ideas, Rikuo stopped him midway. Yoru could have done the perfect setup to scare the wits out of Rikuo's friends. A sigh escaped from his lips since his brown-haired beloved was a killjoy, even though he was already a yokai himself and could be part of the fun too. There was no harm in doing them anyway.

And speaking of Rikuo's friends, the brunet told him he was going to spend with his friends later because he needed to make it up to them for spending less time with them than before. He expected Yoru to pull off an irritating cocky expression on his face and point out that it had been because of him that Rikuo hadn't had the opportunity to be with his friends.

But unexpectedly, Yoru said he was fine with it without his playful teasing and selfishness towards him for once. That had been a first.

For a minute there, Rikuo thought that he was talking to a completely different guy. It seemed that he wasn't the only one who was trying to be considerate between them. But then, Yoru had been far too selfless for the likes of him, so he wouldn't have actually minded if he had any objections towards the brunet's plan for later.

The change was refreshing. There were less petty arguments, because the last thing they needed was something that started out as small being made a big deal out of.

"But you'll let me and the others watch over you and your friends," Yoru said, his eyes showing persistence and insistence. He showed Rikuo that he wasn't going to back down on his own decision. It was for the safety, protection and wellbeing of everyone. It was what Rikuo wanted, right?

Rikuo rolled his eyes and sighed in defeat. Like always, he lost in the argument. "Alright, fine. Just remember to keep your distance and all..."

"I know, I know." Yoru nodded with a neutral expression on his face.

Yoru is really more understanding and considerate than ever now, Rikuo thought to himself, unknowingly staring at Yoru with curious eyes. He wondered what inspired such a remarkable change in the crimson-eyed yokai…

"By the way…" The sandaime spoke again. Rikuo blinked.

"You'll be introducing yourself to the clan. Part of the commemoration of having you as a legitimate member of the clan," he explained.

The brunet's jaw dropped. This day sure was packed. "What?"

"…Tonight."

"Eh?!" Scratch that. Even his entire night was going to be fully booked.

Then again, distractions were better than doing nothing, because being alone with so much pessimistic and negative thoughts was just as dangerous as being in actual physical danger.

"It's called equivalent exchange, love," Yoru clarified as his lips parted into a playful smirk. Now there was the cunning and sneaky Yoru he knew. And he was still as annoying and irritating as ever.

And since that matter had been dealt with, they went on to continue sharing their personal information to one another. They had quite a long way to go before they reached the riverbank, so they still had ample time to talk their hearts out. There was a reason why Yoru chose the riverbank as the end point in the first place.

The conversation somehow managed to be about their birthdays. Rikuo was born on September 23rd, while Yoru was born on July 14th.

The crimson-eyed yokai revealed that he was born in the dead of night. It was where he was named after. The ruler of night shrouded in darkness. The one who would lead the way for those who had gone astray and lost in the said darkness.

Even Yoru's name had its own grand backstory. Let's face it, everything about Yoru is grand. I mean, he's the grandson of the supreme commander of all the yokai, Rikuo thought. I don't even know where I got my name from. He began to wonder if there was anything special about him at all.

Before he got himself lost in his own spiral of self-deprecating thoughts for the millionth time, something randomly crossed Rikuo's mind since they were still on the topic of birthdays. He thought this was the perfect opportunity to finally ask Yoru about it. Birthdays usually had relatives— and most especially, parents.

"Hmmm… you know, Yoru. I've only ever heard about your mother. What about your father?" Rikuo asked. Then he asked himself whether it had been a good idea asking it in the first place. Would it bring bad memories? Would it ruin the chipper atmosphere?

It was just that he had never seen Yoru's father before, not even once. He wasn't even being talked about by the two Nurarihyons. That could mean a couple of things, either he had been away for a long time, or perhaps he ran away, or most tragically and most unfavorably…

"He died," Yoru answered as he leaned on the railing, talking like it was not that much of a big deal. But it was more than that actually, more than what anyone could imagine. "Murdered, actually."

Rikuo flinched. Subtract 50 progress points. "Ah. I'm sorry for even bringing it up in the first place. I-I didn't know…" He scratched the back of his head and bit his lip.

Yoru just shook his head. He didn't look like it, but he went through so much. He lost both of his parents. His mother was possessed by Hagoromo Gitsune and her soul was presumably lost forever, while his father was killed— making Nurarihyon as his last living relative. Rikuo wouldn't ever be able to understand the pain they went through, though perhaps only a fraction of it...

"Um… actually, my dad died too… a few years back," Rikuo confessed, his smile conveying melancholy as he leaned on the railing beside Yoru. "He had been sick for a long time, but he kept it a secret from us. He's always the type to keep things to himself." It wasn't fair that he unknowingly asked a painful question to Yoru, so admitting what happened to his own father was surely enough of a compensation.

The two of them stared off into the distance in silence for a minute or so. Yoru's arm touched Rikuo's, which was an equivalent of a hug since he respected the brunet's wish to avoid doing public displays of affection, for there were already people walking by.

"…Guess we have something in common," Yoru snorted.

Rikuo shook his head and smiled lopsidedly at the tasteless joke. "Well, that's not the only thing we have in common," he stated, resting his cheek on his palm.

"Oh? Do enlighten me about it."

"What? You don't know? You're breaking my heart, Yoru," Rikuo said sarcastically. "I can't believe I have to remind you." He leaned in and pressed his lips against Yoru's briefly. Yoru had a dumbstruck facial expression as the brunet smiled at his accomplishment for he had never caught Yoru off guard until now.

"I love you and you love me. We belong to each other." Rikuo poked Yoru's forehead. "That's definitely something we have in common. Am I right?" His face grew redder as he spoke. He couldn't believe he actually had the courage to say a Yoru-like line to the master of sweet talk himself.

Unexpectedly, Yoru burst out laughing. "You're right. You're absolutely right." He smiled alluringly, catching Rikuo off guard this time as his face turned obviously bright red. "Though I want you to remind me of how much you really do love me… Rikuo." He softly whispered Rikuo's name into his ear, giving the brunet goose bumps.

Rikuo gulped as he recognized the seductive gaze from the other. He never expected their conversation to end up in this route. He managed to look away but Yoru cupped Rikuo's face gently in his hands, holding it in place so he wouldn't be able to avert his gaze from those crimson eyes that showed his true intentions.

"Rikuo…" Yoru's voice dropped to a husky vibrato, making it more difficult to resist his charms.

Rikuo could hear his own heart pounding through his ears. "No, Yoru…" He showed lesser resistance when he slowly leaned closer. "Not here—" He closed his eyes, his body shaking as he felt Yoru's breath inches from his own lips. I'm wearing sunglasses. No one will recognize me, so it'll be alright for us to…

Riiiiiingggg!

Their romantic moment was rudely interrupted by Kiyotsugu calling Rikuo now of all times. It snapped Rikuo out of his trance from being under Yoru's spell. He actually felt relieved and silently thanked his friend that they didn't have to kiss in open public like this.

Yoru, on the other hand, glared at the gadget and thought of all sorts of plans to eradicate that thing from the face of the Earth. He knew Rikuo wouldn't like it if the kiss was forced, so he gave the other a chance to answer the call out of disappointment and irritation.

For what felt like forever, the cellphone conversation finally ended. Yoru hoped the call was important enough for it to interrupt his advances towards his lover.

"Kiyotsugu-kun said they're a couple of miles from Ukiyoe now. It won't take long for them to be back here again," Rikuo explained with a sheepish smile. He could tell how infuriated he was just solely from his aura.

"I see…" Yoru internally sighed. It's time for Rikuo to meet his friends now, then… he thought. He recalled Nurarihyon describing their love as unrequited since Rikuo cared more about others than him. Rikuo might say they belonged to one another, but Yoru wasn't quite sure whether the other's heart was completely his.

"But first!" The former human wrapped his pinky finger around Yoru's and grinned widely. "We still have to reach the riverbank together first."

Yoru's heart skipped a beat. He couldn't help but smile, for he was beginning to finally think that their love wasn't as unrequited as his old man claimed it was.


Author's Note: Woooo! It didn't take a year or six months for me to create another chapter for the fic! THIS CHAPTER DID NOT GO THE WAY I EXPECTED IT TO BE. I already had an outline prepared for it, but because I had a feelsfest while writing one part (I listened to the Lovely Complex OST and reading that one one-shot from Love Com 2 so many tears were shed in the middle of the night) and so, the "getting to know each other" part really wasn't part of the plan!

But it had been a good way for them to learn about each other, right? This is officially that exposition bonanza chapter! Though they got closer this way (even if it was unintentional from my end mUWAHAHAHA), so it's a win-win! Another good inspiration was Maoyu Maou Yuusha, a romance between a demon and a human yeeeeeee so I added the "we belong to each other line" in dedication to that lovely anime.

I actually wanted to write a make-out scene but I had been too redundant and it'd ruin the kinda good ending for the chapter for once… plus it's revenge for the anime not showing any kissing scenes between the main characters at all UUGGGHHH. NOW FEEL THE FRUSTRATION THAT I FEEL HAHA.

Still, I feel like this is the slowest pace I've ever done in this fic, but fret not, you will all groan and shake your heads in frustration with the twists I have in store. This is simply the build-up ohohohoho. Development is key. This is the so-called "Recovery Arc", after all.

Speaking of arcs, I have names for the different arcs of the story, like how the first six chapters is the Cherry Blossoms Arc, while chapters seven to eleven is the Tamazuki Arc, chapters twelve to eighteen is the Kyoto Arc and the two new chapters so far as part of the Recovery Arc. I want as much development as possible (like I've mentioned many times), so I try to make the chapters as long as I can.

So uhhh yeah! Thanks for really supporting this story! Uhhhh reviews would definitely help yep yep they make my day (especially wow 0MissNemo0 your review really inspired me! Especially saying that my portrayal of Yoru is one of the best –melts- that's the ultimate praiseee! ). Also, if I make a Tumblr account for this fic, would anyone follow it? Ahuheuehue~ that way I can get closer to my lovely readers!