Ambrosia

by AyaxRoses

'Love. To truly love, that was one of the only things in this world that would never die. Even if you wished it to. Subaru and Kamui had grown to understand this painfully well.' An alternative ending to the final battle and a future for Subaru and Kamui to be happy together. SubKam SubaruxKamui BL-Yaoi-Shounen-Ai Past Fuuma/Kamui.

19. Lotus Blossom

Ambrosia Chapter 19* "Lotus"

Flower Symbolism- for Lotus or Lotus Blossom: challenges, obstacles, overcoming obstacles

Summary: Kamui continues to learn more about focus and training alongside his mentor/protector/lover. The latter always takes priority, of course. They go out on several jobs, some proving more difficult than others. Warning: This gets angsty! There are also a few smutty scenes in here to break up the more emotional scenes.

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~ Clear Mind ~

There was a natural beauty about the way the leader of the Sumeragi clan could effortlessly guide Kamui along. Whether as simple as homework up to more advanced spiritual training, Kamui followed his guidance without question. Pure devotion. It would be a lie to say it didn't make the experienced Onmyouji's heart skip a beat, having his beloved watching and listening to intensively.

Subaru had no choice but to fall into his own little world with his adorable protégé. The cute little nods and hums Kamui gave throughout his lectures were all too effective on the Onmyouji's heart. Those big Violet-blue doe eyes would shimmer with such trust.

"Those Talismans…." Kamui voices his curiosity, effectively breaking a silence from their meditation. Their attempted meditation.

Subaru makes a sound somewhere between a snort and a breathy laugh.

"S-Sorry, I just keep thinking back to it." Kamui's eyes are curious and open, waiting for the pair of emerald-gold to meet.

"Don't get me wrong I like learning how to create them but… " He comes out of the meditative stance, to a more comfortable sitting position. He lets his long legs out in front of him, crossing them in a way that certainly caught his 'mentor' s' gaze.

"Do you have to do them all by hand?" Kamui inquires, slightly guilty. They were only training and it may seem like he was already making complaints.

"I mean individually… you'd probably have to do them way ahead of time… especially with how hard you work." Kamui rambles on a little sheepishly. Finding more comfort out of the stance, he stretched out. Beautiful long legs stretch out, and arms reach towards the sky.

Kamui's shirt shifts exposing a bit of his abdomen, before he kneels to his lover's side. The gentle fingertips splay down Subaru's arm. Then there's the touch as Kamui shifts to sit right against the older male, their hips brushing. He does easily manage to go right back into the lotus position, legs moving elegantly as they cross once more.

"Subaru?" Kamui worries. Violet-blue orbs reflecting that worry tenfold. He smiles, brushing a strand of raven-black away from enchanting eyes. Of course, Kamui remains completely obvious, to how naturally seductive he could look.

Subaru's throat goes dry, mind screaming at him to just give in to temptations. To take Kamui back to their room and…

"You're… quite flexible," Subaru finally finds his voice, only for that thought to come aloud. Well, truthfully it could have been worse. The more rational part of him reminds him of his position here, as Kamui's instructor. But God, it was so hard to look at Kamui as anything but his angelic boyfriend.

This training, concentration was crucial though. More impure thoughts occur, ones not meant to be within such a serene and pure meditation garden. Subaru's heart briefly stops, seeing Kamui's beautiful lips curve to a shy little smile, as his cheeks color just enough to show he was affected.

"Thank you.." Kamui doesn't know what else to do but to thank his current… teacher. The fact Subaru holds a new title with him doesn't remotely quell the heat in his core. If anything it brought on more ideas. His beloved was already so through with teaching and. 'Shit. Calm down.' Kamui berates himself, getting so lost. He reddens with a fire rushing from his neck up.

'It's been too long since we've done anything more than kissing.' Kamui recalls, frustration vying to add on to his weakening composure.

"... So because of that, we'll start from the basics and Kamui?" Kamui's mind returns from its heated vacation. Subaru seems to be finishing off from voicing a rather detailed answer.

Kamui only now realizes he became so entangled with his thoughts. "S-sorry… I was l-lost in thought."

Subaru raises one eyebrow, looking curiously over Kamui. Though if Kamui was on the same page as him, then their thoughts were... not suited for their current surroundings. He forces the fire in his cheeks away, clearing his throat. "Ah… that's alright...That's what meditation is for..."

"Right…" Kamui nods at this, attempting to laugh it off a bit awkwardly. Still rather flustered, he looks down though with guilt.

"It's nothing to worry about," Subaru encourages tenderly, clasping his hand under the porcelain white chin. Kamui looks back at him, with half his lips curled up. "I… got a bit distracted, myself."

Kamui lowers his shoulders, beaming in a way that makes Subaru lose his breath. He holds a hand briefly over his chest, feeling heavy. It doesn't help that the sun casts golden light upon Kamui, making him the epitome of an angel.

"Really?" Kamui asks to confirm. There's a bit of something mischievous glowing in his eyes.

"Really," Subaru assures with a neutral tone. Although the rush of emotions inside creates a sharp contrast. Before Kamui can ask to follow up questions on those.. 'Distracting thoughts', he continues.

"Anyway… regarding the ofudas, there are pre-rendered ones created from nearby shrines. Not everyone has to be made from scratch. So long as you infuse your power into them it will get the job done… but it's better to learn from the start so you get more of a feel of what each of them represents."

"Is that how you learned?" Kamui inquires rather cutely, tilting his head slightly. The image definitely makes Subaru think of the all too attached cat playing outside.

"Yes," Subaru answered resolutely. He felt his heart skip seeing Kamui's lips quirk to a coy smile.

"Then that's what I want to do," Kamui admits. On a more innocent note, he settles the heated feelings inside to a simmer. His hand reaches for his mentor. "As much as possible. I want to feel even more connected with you." Kamui holds their linked hands up.

The older man blushed, clearing his throat, before turning to the work at hand. "I wouldn't want you to go through something quite as…. harsh. So you'll still be learning but...perhaps in a different way...the way I teach you would be a bit different than with others."

"Oh?" Kamui tilts his head cutely to the side. He breaks his proper form to rest his head on the older man's shoulder.

"I want you to learn at a pace that works for you...and considering who my pupil is…"Subaru pauses on this, moving his head to the side more. It's a mistake he knows this. Kamui nuzzles his nose to the crook of his neck. Subaru knows he's completely putty in his lover's hands." I can't help but want to help you learn in a… more gentle manner."

"I don't mind that one bit," Kamui responded all too fondly. "I love that my boyfriend is the one teaching me… gently," Kamui spoke light and seductively, despite his own fuming cheeks and racing heart. The teasing kiss Kamui gives to the crook of his cheek, makes his lover suppress a strained scream. His mind and heart were working overtime.

"You…" Subaru swallowed hard, eyes growing to their full extent. He was certain Kamui was trying to kill him at this time. Or… very much working on seducing him and his once infallible self-control away.

The little smiles on Kamui's face told him he wasn't so far off. And that his embarrassment was worth it to get a reaction like that out of his Subaru. That idea wasn't purely a fantasy… for either of them.

But now….

"Well, Right now… we sh-should focus a bit more on… clearing the mind." Subaru praises himself for managing those words out. Especially when he can barely keep his thoughts from drifting. "Meditation is incredibly important, you'll find it helps you tap into your own power much easier."

"I guess we should…" Kamui says it much more as a question than anything. He huffs slightly, seeing Subaru agree in a sincere nod. Of course, his boyfriend was all too diligent. It wouldn't do if the leader of the famous Sumeragi clan were anything less.

"But… Maybe after…" Subaru follows up, falling hard for the hopeful smile from Kamui's eyes and lips. "We can… take a break, and head back to the guest house for…" He doesn't finish, nor think he can. It's no problem, his reddened cheeks tell Kamui they were very much on the same page here.

Kamui's smile spreads to an amused and cheery grin. He can't help the flood of red blossoming over his cheekbones, nor the way his stomach continues to flip. His beloved's reactions are too contagious

"That sounds perfect." Kamui chirps, happily. Promises for more certainly gives more than enough incentive to stay focused.

---

Wanting...

After what seemed like an agonizingly long period of meditating, Subaru had finally announced it was a good time for a break. The older of the two had to hold back a laugh at how quickly his Kamui sprung to his feet.

There was so much eagerness and devotion sparkling in violet-blue eyes. He couldn't help but mirror a portion of that beautiful bliss.

"Let's go, Subaru~" Kamui purrs, his tone silky, soft, and more than a bit seductive. At least, to his lover, who was really feeling the effects of how little they've actually touched since they started a more mature part of their relationship.

The loving couple sweetly held hands, walking past the garden, ponds, and through the forest-like surrounding. Kamui was more insistent, leading them with a brisk pace, despite not knowing the way yet.

"We'll get there," Subaru lightly teases, he can't help but to. His lover's pout brings out that powerful yet fluttering feeling.

"It's been so long though…" Kamui whines, with a bit of a pained cry. Subaru finds that fluttering feeling replaced with a sting of guilt.

"I want us to… be so close like that again," Kamui emphasizes his point with a devotion, leaning up to his tiptoes to steal a slow, passionate kiss. Of course, the kiss was returned entirely, meeting every caress, press, and sigh between warm lips. With a particularly perfect angle, their kisses and lips came to a sear, stopping the two for a good moment.

"Like that…'' Kamui finishes, catching his breath. His own embarrassment over these things had mostly been won out by feelings of frustration.

Subaru's long fingers splay on his hips attempting to retract his haste, making his cheeks flood. Yet, he was passionately stopped.

"Not like that…" Kamui held a devious curl to his lips. The younger of the two kept those hands steady on his hips, even moving them a bit lower. "Like this…" Kamui finished, even going so far as to dip his hips further into his lover's hesitant touch. Kamui's actions seemed to catch up with him as his face burst with a fire of colors.

"K-Kamui… believe me… I...I do too I just don't want to,'' Subaru finds his nerves kicking in, voice cracking. He's torn between his deeper desires… and needs to keep Kamui happy and comfortable. "To go too far and… " He swallows exceedingly hard.

Unfortunately, his insecurities and worries keep him from seeing their desires are one and the same.

"Subaru! " Kamui groans with frustration stopping in his tracks. He turns back, with a sulky expression.

"Please…" Kamui says in a sense of pure want and desperation… The intention comes through crystal clear.

"Trust me, Kamui I want to, " Subaru admits before thinking. He gives a reassuring squeeze to Kamui's hand. "There are so many things I want to do with you I-" He quickly cuts himself off, fantasies we're all too easy to take over his senses.

"I want you to.…" Kamui murmurs, a little too quietly under his breath. A bit needy and frustrated they've held off when it seems like something so obviously wanted between them. There's a deep sense of longing in his eyes that tells Subaru he heard it right.

"My Kamui…" Subaru coos. His warm breath murmurs sweet words of affection, soft and intimately, he takes Kamui's hand, leading them off the trail. Kamui's sullen lips and eyes narrowing down to the trail, create a need to make amends.

"Come here, " Subaru coaxes, with a heated tone, tugging his frustrated boyfriend by the hand. He stops, noticing his poor lover hadn't even so much as looked up. The younger man was still lost in his frustrations. Yet, still, he willingly followed.

"Kamui~" Subaru purrs right inside his lover's erogenous ears. Violet-blue eyes shot up, feeling a leg daringly slipping between his own. Fingertips at his jawline and a warm body keeping him captive, makes his brain go fuzzy. He partly wonders if he slipped into a fantasy.

"Suba-mmmpph!" Kamui's words are muffled. He feels his back against a tree, and lips energetically loving on his own. There's a warm, and active movement to the kiss. One which tells Kamui there was certainly desire here. A desire rivaling his own for so long

Subaru pulls a surprising move of simply going in, slipping his tongue in through his surprised lover's mouth. This forward approach was something that gave Kamui a rush like no other Seeing such a heated, eager and passionate Subaru. . It becomes a rush as they only move in deeper. Kamui can't even complain about how easily he let his lips become dominated, nor how embarrassing his cries resounded.

Kamui sighed into the kiss, feeling the hands pinned above his head, lace together. Out away enough that there wasn't a worry of visitors interrupting but still so open… their own little getaway.

"I want us to do everything…" Subaru breathes against heated lips. They press together hard. This time Kamui's arms were freed and were able to wrap his arms around his boyfriend securely. Kamui pursues the kiss with as much passion and energy to press his lips hard as they meet.

This lasts for countless moments. Kamui was certain he was still lost in a fantasy. One of his best. Their heated kisses and hands scavenging each other's bodies remain so wild and unruly. They need to release this heat… to come closer and closer was overwhelming.

There's a solid moment where they have to take a long breath and to part, lips separate but still connected through a trail of saliva. Smaller kisses help to calm their senses, being apart for too long feels like madness.

"I want us to do things… At the right time," Subaru voices his concerns… despite himself and the perfect atmosphere. He already knows his wording is terrible, but the fear of saying something too bold or making Kamui uncomfortable keeps him cautious. He felt his entire control about to slip here… and… Subaru didn't understand himself but too much… and the thought of hurting his lover for going too far, too of control was unbearable.

"At the right time…" Kamui repeats in a softer tone, though a bit despondent. He hums looking into very heated sparkling eyes that make his breath hitch. Yet, Subaru doesn't act on it, nothing further than the passionate kisses this time and warm touches. Those were far too irresistible for either lover to keep from.

Kamui cups his boyfriend's cheeks. He gazes longingly into the beautiful gem-colored eyes.

"How often do you hold yourself back from what you want?" Kamui ponders sadly, knowing this sentiment went beyond the matter at hand. With intimacy and everything… Subaru was far too kind to impose something he wants for himself on others.

"What I mean is. .. " Subaru sees the pained eyes, slightly watery eyes. He presses his lips beside each eyelid. His hand delicately lifts under Kamui's chin. "We do have some work ahead. I wouldn't want us to do something that leaves you feeling… not… physically well enough."

Not processing, he shook his head and snorted. "I-I'll be-… OH.," Kamui stuttered, feeling his heart pump wildly. Of course, I'll be fine with Subaru but saying it like that is….

He relents, though another side of him screams to throw caution to the wind and let passion take over.

His cheeks flared up, as he thought more about the wording. Fortunately, his raven hair had fallen partially covering his blush. They were already lovers, certainly, but thoughts of "Going all the way" with his boyfriend brought out a new feeling. Kamui curses under his breath. He wishes he hadn't read 'those' books from Karen now...Countless 'compromising' positions rush through his thoughts. The fact his boyfriend thought of that too was enough to make him feel a sharp reaction in his arousal.

"Doing enough that I don't feel…. Not being well enough to work.. ." Kamui runs those words over several times. Then he blushed furiously, letting his mind simmer.

Of course, Subaru is being considerate...but he' Kamui is consumed by his heated thought. But he does think about it...Going so far as to do things that would be" too much" or "wear his lover out." Realizing that made his heart burst and core burn with an embarrassing heat.

Kamui's all too familiar fantasies spring their way to life and various positions for the two of them sear inside of him.

Subaru waited patiently, a tiny amused smirk, committing every little expression, quirk, and flush to memory. After a few moments, he laughed softly and pulled Kamui's hand. "Kamui…" There was a vague hum in return. Kamui followed him without question, without a thought of it, as he always would.

Beautiful violet-blue eyes seemed to be staring off, lost in another world. They'd widen shaping even more doe-like. Kamui's face would bloom a thousand shades of red and pink. Then his expression steeled, his eyes wandering as though looking for a solution amongst the grass and trees. Then he would go right back to flushing wildly. The younger man's mind was clearly caught up on something. Kamui would start biting his lip, gasping and mewling at whatever was on his mind.

Subaru let it go because… it would likely only make him tempted to forget his words and do so much more with Kamui. Somewhere along the way, they return to the path. Kamui's mind is filled with thoughts and dreams that were… hardly a rare occurrence.

"Kamui," Subaru's tender call, brought Kamui back from his mind's travels.

"Hmn," Kamui hums quite meekly.

"Kamui," Subaru expresses with a deeper tone. His gaze fixates on his lover's elegant eyes. A hand clasps Kamui's shoulder turning the boy to face him. "Kamui, I absolutely want us to… 'be close again'..." Subaru quotes his lover's more delicate wording. "To be intimate… so…" He manages that bit more through his own embarrassment.

The shorter male hangs on to every word, waiting eagerly for the follow-up. They finally approach the doorstep of the lovely guesthouse. "So…" Subaru reaches for the key, in his pocket, and slips the key into the lock. "I want us to connect again…" HIs hand shakes from eagerness and apprehension. Kamui's smaller hands lovingly hold over his own. "Nothing further than before but-"

"Okay!" Kamui eagerly interrupts, beaming as he feels his heart soar to the heavens. Finally, they'd be touching again… and when they got back home, away from work duties... just maybe. His face lights up with an angelic flare of euphoria. Perhaps, It wouldn't be entirely wise to do too much when they would be working the next few days… but this was well overdue.

As soon as the door opens, Subaru finds his petite lover, lunging towards him. Kamui wraps those slender arms around his neck and attempts to lift a single leg to his lover's waist in a way that fills Subaru's fantasies.

"K-Kamui?!" Subaru manages to get out. A small hand grasps the raven-black hair on the back of his head. He gasps sharply, feeling his head guided down. Kamui's lips hold him, hostage, bringing him to heated, needy, and deep kisses.

Despite his surprise, he takes the clear signal. Kamui wanted this….No, they needed this. Now.

Subaru's heart went for a record pace, as he saw a glossy reflection of desire, devotion, and overwhelming love in those violet eyes. His younger lover's leg lifts higher at his waist and the other attempts to wrap around his taller lover. Subaru makes it easier to grasp under Kamui's hips and take hold.

Emerald and gold eyes darken, looking over his love's flushed cheeks, and little mewls and hasps. The older lover very much indulges in how soft Kamui's thighs are while he dips his fingertips under them much more than necessary.

Elegantly, Subaru lifts his precious lover from the floor. Kamui's toes dangling just above the ground. Kamui's body is lifted at a slow teasing pace. His thoughts are too far gone, especially seeing Kamui instantly wrap his legs around him so very tight.

"S-Subaru…" Kamui cries out, burying his heated face in his lover's shoulder. Despite being the one to initiate he couldn't seem to stay in control enough, especially feeling touched with such raw desire.

"My beautiful Kamui~" Subaru gives in to his own needs. His hands travel towards more sensitive regions. Elegant fingers dip all over his lover's velvety thighs with more pressure. His touches and hands travel down his back and sensitive backside.

Every part of his lover was perfect, his round, soft and sensitive bottom, fits perfectly within the palm of his two hands. As though every part of them were made for each other. Lust was a guide for him, love was his catalyst. Lost within it all his hands dig a little deeper into the soft bottom, giving the sensitive body a particularly tight squeeze.

"Subaru!" Kamui sharply cries out, hiding his face in the older man's neck.

"S-sorry…too much" Subaru attempts to apologize but is cut off by searing, and needy lips once more. They couldn't stay connected for long enough.

"Mnn… S-Subaru… I… Mnnn…" Kamui attempts to form words that make some sense. It's to no avail. There's a striking reaction in the older man's core hearing Kamui's gasps as he feels finally being touched again.

There's a sense of urgency between, as his arm tightens around Kamui, flushing them together. He leans down, arms shifting around his lover to hold him in a bridal. An immediately deep, open kiss follows up.

Not even breaking the kiss, Subaru expertly manages to swiftly and safely head to their bedroom. Kamui returns the passion and devotion, with kisses as deep and hard as a hope these emotions can show through.

Entering their current love nest, Kamui is deposited on the end of the bed. Subaru does give his sensitive lover a break to voice his thoughts..

"Is this alright...just like this?" Subaru can't help but ask. Kamui nods fervently.

"I ah… really … like when...you're like this…" Kamui admits in a sheepish mumble. Half of his words were muffled as he buried his face into his lover's shirt. "Just like this." Kamui's lips curl and beam to create an angelic those words are spoken setting everything aflame.

"I want you," Kamui professes, breathless. He catches his breath, arms reaching out towards his lover to be where he is.

Subaru loses his breath. It's an almost painful strike to his chest, Subaru's hand tightly squeezes his chest.

"I want you, too," Subaru returns with every bit of gentleness and sincerity. There's something ethereal as his expression relaxes, entrancing those violet-blue eyes to roam all over. The soft love-sick curve to his lips, and slightly pink blossoming above only complete the perfect scene. A portrait for Kamui's eyes only.

Tenderly a hand guidesKamui to lie back. Shyly, Kamui motions to his lover with a single finger. Long elegant legs spread out, with a full sense of trust and ease. An invitation that did more than arouse...There was a feeling of coming home. The lovesick man dives in, slotting perfectly between those beautiful legs.

Subaru takes the top of Kamui's hand and kisses it, before fully falling into bed with his lover. Their lips return to one another, as they always belonged. With that beautiful brush of pink, Kamui falls deeply within his precious for a brief bout of air their lips part.

His breath is warm upon his lips. Little butterfly kisses trail all across his lover's jawline and up to the shell of his ear. "Subaru, Please…"

"Yes," Subaru's heart calls out. The older lover already finds his hands subconsciously lifting the hem of Kamui's shirt. Any barrier or space between feels suffocating. The smooth milky skin melts under Subaru's fingers.

Gentle hands slide lovingly between Kamui's back and shirt. "Ha.." His lips breathe out a sharp moan. Kisses bestowed upon the younger man's neck, while a gentle hand ran circles, dipping and loving on every inch of Kamui.

Kamui's smaller hands were placed at the hem of his top, as his lover's hands were drawn down. Crystal shimmering orbs meet, fall, and become lost in an abyss. Violet-blue blends perfectly within Emerald and Gold. Together they can both count the stars, mesmerizing them.

"May I?' Subaru requests, with a private, delicate tone. Gentle lips brush and linger over to loving relishes in the desire no longer hidden away.

"Of course," Kamui professes breath hitching as the euphoria lightning up his lover's eyes. As though he was let through heaven's gates. Someone no matter how often...that look…is dangerous. It steals Kamui's heart away with no sense of mercy, breathing becomes a second place to love. The heart's need to cry out takes over all senses.

Kamui can't dwell here...his body already showing signs of arousal. He rewards Subaru with several deep kisses. His tongue dips within his boyfriend's mouth, setting a trail and pattern for Subaru to follow. And he does with every bit of passion.

When Kamui lifts the fabric from his shirt, gentle but insistent hands stop their motion. "Please, let me," Subaru murmurs, in a beautiful trance. The younger man can only nod, breath stolen.

Skillful, elegant fingers lift the thin fabric. Kamui loses himself in the motions, being kissed each and every place his lover's lips could meet. The fluid movements bring Kamui to bear to his lover before he can process his thoughts.

When Subaru moves to unbutton his top, Kamui takes his turn. "L-let me care for you…" He slips out, hands still a little shaky but calming with a familiar touch. Together they finally remove the thin shield fabric.

There's such overwhelming emotion, kissing in perfect sync. Their mouths connect, lips over lips, tongues entwined in their own private love game.

Though, the soft feeling begins to simmer to something more. Their arousals brush up each other, creating the perfect friction. With a private look, a hand is placed upon Kamui's chest, over his heart. They fall back together.

A gentle, loving pace can't help but be their beginning, even with such need.

"Kamui!"

"Subaru!"

Both cry out with a passion, the need to hear each other's beautiful sounds, goes in conflict with the need to kiss. They find their balance, moans, and deep kisses following their own passion. Subaru's lips travel to worship his personal heaven. He positions himself more perfectly between his lover's spread legs.

"Ah...I….that's…" Kamui cries and moans play a perfect symphony for his lover kisses all along the inside of thighs, wonderful but… "P-please!" Kamui pleas for release.

"Of course…" Subaru can't find it in him to tease. He takes Kamui's dripping erection first. Because, here, Kamui would always be first. Subaru knows this all too well and finds himself taking both of their hardened cocks pumping them in a slow but steady motion.

"Ah...S-Subaru?" Kamui calls. His lover's eyes fall towards him. "K-kiss me...while we…" Elegant arms stretch out, and Subaru falls deeply within them. Explaining would be far too but Subaru reads the way Kamui's soft thighs begin to clamp over his erection.

"Kamui…" Subaru's gone, heart, mind, and body completely lost to such 's velvety soft skin hold him to perfection. There's no method to their movements, only a natural begins grinding down on his lover, slowly but with a deep insistence, he needed this very much. There's a loving rocking motion as they move together.

"Ah...oh God!" Kamui shrieks, feeling the speed pick up. Subaru's arm comes to rest by his lover's head. The younger lover takes that hand and cuddles it to his cheek, and kisses it softly. He returns to the deep and hardening kisses, blushing as hard as possible without fainting.

Subaru moves, so closely intercourse, the way his body rocks into and against Kamui's oversensitive body. Each passing moment, every kiss has his lover grinding down harder and faster against him. Kamu's legs closing in only encourages deeper movements. Those touches.

Knowing exactly what they needed, Kamui wraps his legs fully and securely around the body, loving him like crazy. His inner thighs, squeeze Subaru's hardness, refusing to let go even for the world. A particular hard and tight squeeze comes out...

"K-Kamui!" Subaru releases his loudest and heated moans. Kamui feels nearly coming undone from the sounds alone. Inevitably the rocking motion turns entirely wild and...passionate. Each 'thrust' only becomes that much harder. Kamui closes his eyes, allowing his lips to be consumed, tongue in his mouth.

It comes to the point, movements so fast, and hard leave Kamui unable to follow along. His body was complete, taken. He can only cling to his lover's shoulders. His nails dig in deep as they meet deeply, with those perfect angles.

No words could hope to convey what was right here. Only heartbeats, cries, and names of the other were possible to voice in this space. Completely gone upon one another.

"I-I'm cu-cumming!" Kamui screams, head falling back. Yet, he's given not a second more to do so, as his mouth and body are completely dominated.

"Cum for me…" Subaru directs the words like a promise. "Cum for me...my Kamui!" Those words hold a miraculous power. Within the next thrust, ribbons of white come streaming between their chest and stomach. There seems to be no end as he'd fully milked through his orgasm.

"My Kamui!" Subaru cries in a tone possessive, and certainty.

"Subaru!" Kamui fears his release may happen all over again, just from that. Within seconds, Subaru releases. His essence splaying wildly between their bodies, most of which pours onto Kamui's body, claiming him.

Subaru collapses over his lover, the extent of his orgasm taking everything. A perfect bliss and sense of euphoria take place, as they catch their breath, lost in a world where only they exist. Softer, unhurried kisses come from the release.

"Kamui! I love you," Subaru softly cries out as he attempts to roll off his lover.

"I ah..love you too…" Kamui's heart returns the call. His arms insistently keep his love upon him. Subaru's eyes raise to an unspoken question. "Let's...stay like this…"

Completely covered within Subaru's warmth, Kamui had never felt safer.

---

First Job

While Kamui expected the danger level to be quite low, he didn't expect the job to be quite this tame. Tame enough to make him wonder why his adoring boyfriend thought they should hold back from going further...and-

Kamui shakes his head, raven hair slightly falling in front of his face. What was done (and not done) was done.

Now, he was putting up protection charms and talismans around the client's home. They were lighting incense… candles and… it was all too easy.

"This is all we're doing?" Kamui asked, with an obvious hint of frustration. He saw his boyfriend turn back with a sympathetic smile.

"I know it doesn't seem like much," Subaru returns, checking over his little protégés handiwork around the shrine. "But it is a part of the job. And blessing a house like this one can be time-consuming, when alone. So you are helping me."

"I get that…." Kamui reluctantly complies. He bites inside his cheek, a bit guilty for his complaining. It was a surprise enough Subaru would even agree to have Kamui work with him. Maybe he should have expected this much from the first job.

"I know I'm not exactly experienced…" Kamui bites his lip, carefully lighting candles and incense by the house's altar. Photos of the client's deceased loved ones were framed all around the time. "But I am not weak. I want to help more with the kind of work that is more… tedious for you. The kind you normally do." Kamui emphasizes waving his hands in a large sweeping motion.

Subaru shakes his head, as he walks to the far ends of the room. Carefully, his dual-colored eyes transfix on the placement of the protective charms. He straightens the paper talismans, adjusting it to match the height of the others more precisely.

"I understand your frustrations, but you have to start from the mundane." With a bit of a sigh, he takes it. "Learning how to infuse power and work with the ofuda should, it will become second nature before you go into...more offensive work."

"That's fair…" Kamui complies with his "mentor's" careful tactics. At least for now. "So what do we need to do next?" Kamui asks, looking up curiously at his precious person looking over every millimeter of the altar with a steeled and serious expression.

The younger man sits upon the back of his heels, curious but patient to wait for his boyfriend's final judgment.

"You did well," Subaru speaks decisively, turning his head to praise his little protégé. The expression he wore couldn't be more enamored. His lips form a breathtaking smile, making Kamui slip out of his more proper sitting position. Subaru's eyes lit up with a deep sense of fondness.

Despite his words he circles around the altar and round itself once more. Seeming satisfied he returns to where Kamui is sitting and brushes his fingers delicately through silky black hair. The movement is quicker than usual. It's more of a pet on his protégés head, in congratulations...but it still held warmth.

Kamui partially wants to protest at how quickly that happened. Though he recalls, even if the client was not currently in the room with them, they were on the job.

"After everything is set up…" Subaru sat down next to Kamui, continuing his instruction. He holds his hands up before himself in a prayer fashion. "There's a certain prayer that needs to be recited."

Kamui nods, looking at his mentor's movements. There's just the way Subaru's eyes close, while his lips form words he can't quite keep track of. Yet the movement comes so natural and full of grace.

"Kamui?" Subaru glances to his side. He looks over the younger man with worry.

Kamui flushes, quickly shake his head, back to focus. As a more inexperienced psychic, he bows his head. "I'm sorry... It's a lot to take in." He only partially lies.

"It's alright, lov-Kamui," Subaru clears his throat, quickly correcting his 'unprofessional' habit. With a gentle, considerate smile he continues. "Please, try to keep your focus right here. It could be dangerous otherwise."

"Y-yes… of course, " Kamui rubs at the back of his neck. His face floods with red as he feels his heart fluttering. "I'm sorry, Subaru…" This was the first time in a long time Kamui was faced with the task of looking at Subaru as his mentor here and not his boyfriend. "W-what were you saying?"

"I was saying…" Subaru's soft spot for Kamui always comes out at times like this. His eyes turn a bit more gentle, as he briefly brushes a hand over Kamui's own. The touch comes with reassurance. "There's a certain prayer that needs to be recited for times like this. It can take time to learn. So for right now, watch me, alright?"

The younger male nods fervently. That was something Kamui had no trouble doing.

---

Overcaution

While Kamui had considered his boyfriend considerate for holding back on what they did this week, he had his frustrations. He found himself biting his tongue more than usual, reflecting on how protective Subaru could be, after all of his losses. He got it...but that didn't mean he had to like this.

Everything just felt too simple. Like Kamui's own help wasn't really needed or that beneficial. They arrived at the old temple-style home, greeted by an elderly woman, whose aura (even to Kamui's lack of expertise) exuded quite a bit of grief. Her shoulders hung down, and she couldn't fully smile, not without an ache in her eyes. Her dark eyes were covered with rings of red.

"Thank you for coming so suddenly," The older lady beamed, looking towards the Sumeragi head with a sense of familiarity.

"It's no problem. I'm sorry...for your loss," Subaru responded, with enough empathy and pain in his eyes. Always seeming to take in a bit of his client's pain and burden. Though there never were words to convey to one with such a loss.

"You're as kind as always," She responds with a sense of warmth, the best she could muster. Still, she can't manage to form a smile or keep light in her darkened eyes for long. "I remember you being this big," she reminisces with some fondness. Her wrinkly hand lays out flat, indicating a height just under the hem of her blouse.

Considering she had met with Subaru on numerous occasions, her fate had been far from kind to her. Kamui shuddered, feeling something despairing around the home behind their client.

Catching the reaction and feeling pained eyes on his back, the lead Onmyouji turns back. Subaru turns back towards his beloved, 'protege', giving a look that conveys, "I'll tell you more later."

They would be speaking with a benevolent spirit, as Subaru informed earlier. It seemed easy enough for Subaru to handle on his own.

'I'll have to start with the basics...if I want Subaru to trust that I'll be okay.' Kamui reflects, choosing to think of his beloved's actions with more compassion and fondness. While frustrating, this all stemmed from a place of deep concern and love.

"And who is this with you today?" The older woman can't help but comment. There's a sense of knowing as her eyes light up just a bit seeing the young man standing close to Onmyouji's side. Subaru fights the urge to comb his fingers through his nervous 'assistant's hair.

"Ah, and this is Kamui. He'll be assisting me for the day," Subaru answers clearly, and with a softness brushing across his expression. There's a sense of light dancing in his eyes as he turns back again to see a slightly nervous Kamui, who bows his head briefly.

"With spiritual power such as his, I imagine he'll be quite a tremendous help," She responds all too knowingly. The golden ray of light surrounding the world's savior is nothing to be taken lightly. The softness the younger man brings to the burdened Onmyouji leader is something that strikes her more. Never once has she seen the young spiritualist seem quite so light, not even as a child. That was a power the younger boy possessed all on its own.

While Subaru's eyes raise a bit it's nothing compared to the surprise on Kamui's face. His eyes widen, mouth parting just a bit, yet never quite knowing the words to form after.

"I'm quite fortunate," Subaru in turn responds with a shimmer to his dual-toned eyes. The certain light makes Kamui think of a pair of jewels, held up to a warm sunset. It's clear he wasn't just referring to the help at his work.

The older woman clasps her hands together, folding them fondly at her lap. "Now that you're here, perhaps we can go over things over some tea." Her offer remains so warm and selfless.

Something about her gentle nature, despite the pain, reminded him of Kotori. There's a quiver in his lips as he thinks back to innocent times, rescuing birds or small animals, or creating flower crowns in the park.

A bittersweet sensation ran through his core, making his eyes shadow over and shake. He nearly jumps feeling a handclasp over his shoulder blade.

"Kamui?" Subaru asks, lips so close to his beloved's ears. A tone so tender, Kamui fears he'd melt if they were left alone.

"I'm fine," Kamui lies quickly, shaking his head quickly. He places a hand over the one on his shoulder. "Really."

Their older client smiles with fondness at the scene. A sense of nostalgia brushes over her of her own love story from her youth. She decides not to comment on the obvious, saving the young lovers the embarrassment.

The new team of spiritualists followed the older woman under a colorful flower arch. A mix of pink and purple azaleas. There's a sound of rushing water, as they are led to the back garden. The size of which is somewhat small but it still holds an air of serenity as those with the Sumeragi estate.

Within moments, and stubbornness on their guests' part, their client disappears into her house to prepare the drinks. They take their seats inside a pastel blue table, covered with various flowers and symbols.

Subaru waits properly and patiently for Kamui to take his seat first. Even if they weren't to act overtly as lovers here, he couldn't help but to do so. Caring for Kamui, being gracious and patient was something he was certain he couldn't stop.

Kamui nods courteously before taking a seat near the windowsill. His partner sits beside him after. There's a brief moment of softness, under the table, Subaru holds a hand above Kamui's knee.

"You sure you're alright?" He follows with a gentle caress.

Beautiful violet-blue eyes flutter brilliantly, before settling on their person with deep affection.

"I'll be just fine," Kamui insists, turning and clasping the hand over his lap. He leans to the side, resting his head against his boyfriend's arm. At least until the sound of footsteps returns.

"I do hope you like honey-milk tea,'' the older woman spoke so courteously. Their client returns, with a ceramic teapot, painted over with pink peonies. She seems to hold her head up a bit better.

"That's no problem," Subaru answers politely. The woman returns with a soft nod and a hint of a curl to her lips.

Kamui notices his boyfriend's eyes transfixed on a sight over the woman's shoulder. Not that it looked any different than before.

She loomed over the table, pouring the warm drink into the teacups surrounding the table. Finally, she returned to a seat opposite of her guests. She fills her cup last before taking a seat.

"He's here now, isn't he?" She smiles a little sadly. Though somehow it's the most sincere smile seen through the day, albeit full of pain.

Subaru nods in response. There's a sympathetic curl to his lips, while a shimmer of compassion lights across his eyes.

"Right by your side."

There's a sense of devotion. The ghostly figure of an elderly man, while long silver hair, looks down fondly upon the love he unwillingly left behind. He reaches to brush his hands through the woman's hair, but his touch passes through. Anguish passes through dark brown eyes.

"I had a feeling." The elderly woman responds, sighing before allowing her shoulders to drop.

Seeing a bit of confusion upon the youngest in the room, she proceeds to elaborate. "My late husband passed away just months ago."

Subaru's eyes seem to sting at the words. Always, always hating the sight of those so in love torn apart by the course of time.

"Ever since then… I can't help but notice a change… like someone has been so readily at my side… always tied to this home of ours…" She follows up with her explanation. "As much as I feel someone precious to me here. It's not as though I can talk with them. Nor ease their pain."

Again the spirit of the lady's spouse attempts to place a comforting hand on her shoulder. It's to no avail as the touch, while felt, simply goes right through her corporal form.

"So you were the first person I thought of. I still clearly remember how you helped my late daughter pass on… when you were just a child yourself." She recalls slowly, eyes seeming lost in that other world. Perhaps the words that stung the most, striking Kamui to the core, were what followed.

"I don't know why, it seems I'm the one left behind. So many of my loved ones passed before me." Her words ring painfully true, striking both of the young spiritualists to the core. Of course, her late husband's spirit settles as close as possible, his hand floating over the trembling ones in the woman's lap. Those his spirit starts to fade, perhaps taking in too much pain being so close yet so far.

She puts on a stronger face and shakes her head. "I know it does no good to me or my beloved acting like this. Truly, I want to know what can be done. Please, help my husband to pass on peacefully." Her request comes with trembling eyes and shaky hands. Whilst the warmth over her hands is felt, it doesn't numb the pain of loss. To truly be beside one's precious person.

"I'll do everything I can," Subaru promises, voice laced with deep compassion and sincerity. Perhaps, it is the worst setting for the feeling, but Kamui can't help but find his heart skipping beats, watching how perfectly compassionate and gentle his boyfriend could be.

---

Bittersweet

To be on the side of caution, the powerful pair opted to return home for the day. Even if the spirit seen that day was benevolent that wasn't to say they would only encounter more.

Kamui found himself reflecting, allowing the hot shower spray to rain over him. A shower, which his partner had (reluctantly) declined his offer to shower with him.

For these reasons, Kamui didn't quite grasp. His boyfriend did need to perform a water purification before an exorcism the next day. But that was something he would do tomorrow, and it was separated from a regular shower anyway.

And… Kamui groaned, squeezing the lathered washcloth tightly in his hands.

'I… might be tempted to go too far with you… if I see you right now.' Subaru had told him in a way that made his former leader feel indescribably frustrated.

'Please, just give In for once.' Kamui wanted to scream. He felt only partially bad, cursing his boyfriend's cautious steps. Mainly because he didn't know any other way he could convey to his boyfriend how there was nothing that should be deemed too far, at least as Kamui was considered. Even just a bit more kissing and touching like they did the other day… would help relieve some of his growing frustrations.

Well, they wouldn't be in Kyoto forever. Soon enough, Kamui would be back to school and off-duty for his Onmyouji work. So it would have to do.

Kamui found some reprieve seeing his boyfriend sitting on the edge of their bed. His hands were linked and folded in the center of his lap. He looked up guiltily, seeing Kamui return from the bath with a towel around his waist, returning to retrieve his clothes. Maybe a part of him wanted to get a reaction from his boyfriend, who left him in a state of unresolved desires.

"I really do want you," Subaru professes, sadly, unable to keep his eyes off the floor. His statement only came with further evidence as he glanced at Kamui's exposed form, up and down, taking in everything.

Kamui breathes out slowly. He steps confidently, over towards their bed. Holding a smaller towel in his hands he proceeds to dry it through his shimmery blue-black hair.

"I know," Kamui returns with a smile. He wraps his arms around his beloved's back."I want you too." Lovingly, he pulls his all too self-critical boyfriend, so they become flushed in an embrace. Subaru's weary head is guided to rest against Kamui's freshly cleansed chest.

The older of the two find it's all too hard to resist. So he doesn't stop himself from breathing in the clean and enticing blend of fruits mixed with the younger man's natural scent. The soothing heartbeat plays as an all too alluring lullaby.

"We don't have to do anything. I know how serious you are with what you do…" Kamui coos, gasping as he feels hands on his hips, pulling him up to rest on the bed. Neither says a word, as the towel wrapped around him slips. "And I know how much you care for me… want me to be alright before working tomorrow…"

"You're what matters most…" Subaru states, wrapping his love into a tighter embrace. He shifts his hold to Kamui, doing his best to ignore how exposed he was until the smaller male is straddling his hips. "The last thing I want to do is make you unhappy…" His hands refrain from gripping too tightly, indulging in how perfectly soft those slender hips felt within his hands. "My duties as an Onmyouji will always take a backseat to what you need."

Kamui sits constantly in the other's lap. He bites his lips to suppress any further sounds as he feels himself bare and sensitive against his beloved's clothed body.

"I'm not unhappy," Kamui insists on this. They had their lives ahead of them to do more. "A little frustrated as...I feel ready to go further. but I understand."

"Kamui…" Subaru calls softly, licking his lips as he feels his belief shifting in his lap. His dual-toned eyes fall into a brilliant sea of violet and are brought together as though through gravity itself. Leaning in closer and closer until their lips brush comfortably.

"I'm happy so long as I have you." A sweet and devoted caress of lips pursues. "So for now…" Kamui speaks against his beloved's sweet lips. "Just hold me here…" Kamui gulps feeling hands running up and down his exposed legs.

Subaru starts kissing around his chest in a way that makes him gasp. All too pleasant memories of lips around his sensitive chest make Kamui go weak in his beloved's loving hold.

"L-like… this…" Kamui gulps, guiding hands back to his hips. "Is...really good," He melts into the other's hold, feeling his body lifted and guided back towards the pillows.

A sharp breath extends as Kamui feels longer, clothed legs entangling within his own. He buries his heated face into his lover's shirt. It would be so easy to go further from here.

"I love you, Kamui…" Subaru expresses, so quietly, and tenderly. It feels like the first time he's heard those words, not an ounce of passion or devotion is lost from the words. Spoken countless times. The kisses across his shoulder blades help the younger man settle into the other's warmth.

"Mn...love you too," Kamui returns heartedly, looking up, despite his flushed features. He places his hands to caress a tender cheek. There's something in the sparkle and softness of gold and emerald eyes. Then there's the smile, illuminated from the stars outside. Their lips caress, entirely tender and slow.

There's a lovely sense of intimacy taking place here… even as kisses and touches stay more innocent. "So so much…" Kamui purrs against tender lips and brushes their noses together.

There's something entirely nice and innocent with the moment. It would be perfectly fine if they always stayed here. There's a bit of heat in gold and green eyes, as they ravage across the perfectly soft and milky skin.

"Subaru?!" Kamui can't complain when he feels himself flipped while lying on his back. His lover indeed gives in as Kamui had wished, just a bit. Lips continue to ravish and love all over Kamui's exposed body with countless heated kisses.

"...you don't need to ah…" Kamui moans out, gathering everything he can to finish his thought. "Hold back from this?" He asks whimsically, being sure to lock his legs tight around his boyfriend on the off chance he changes his mind.

Thankfully, though it seems Kamui was not the only one affected. Subaru's mouth tenderly grazes upon a sensitive neck, worshiping delicate skin. He steadied himself by a hand at Kamui's head. "It'll be alright...I want to feel you like this…" Subaru admits, doing his best to suppress from becoming too aroused by the intimate connection.

It's not like they hadn't made out before a workday… just usually with Kamui being more clothed. But… feeling like this… surely this much would be alright.

"I'll be doing the water purification tomorrow so…I'd like to… " Subaru can't quite finish off his thoughts. His mind would be far from pure if he held back this much, with someone he loves so perfectly close under him. More so… Kamui was all too willing to wrap around him like this… Subaru was running out of reasons to hold himself back… though he would… at least until they were home.

"I want you to do just as you like…" Kamui encourages, beaming at the response. He feels the older male moan into his mouth for the sensual words.

Both have learned there's no way to stay away from this feeling. This enticing flame between them only becomes more and more consuming while furthering its course.

Kamui tilts his head to the side allowing his boyfriend more access to explore. His hand grazes through the back of his lover's head. The tresses of raven-black feel incredibly soft, and it's all too easy to take in the scent of lilac from his lover's shampoo.

There was nothing here feeling anything but natural. Somewhere along the way, Kamui managed to rid his gentle lover of his shirt, just feeling the skinship between their chests was enough to make him softly cry out, especially as he was embraced so tightly from there. Their movements were unhurried and tender, unwilling to break for the world.

That same feeling enticing as they "finished up, and wound up falling asleep, snuggled under the covers.

---

Goodbyes

All too early another day began to dawn. Kamui begins groaning as the sunlight blares through the sky blue curtains of the guest house. He had just lifted the Fluffy comforter and saw his lack of apparel. A fire burns through his core and up to his cheeks.

They had a quick breakfast, with their work starting early. Subaru had neatly packed various candles, incense, and other spiritual items to assist them.

"You have to bathe again, right?" Kamui asks his boyfriend, across the table.

Subaru's lips quirk up high. His eyes dance with amusement.

"What?" Kamui slightly pouts.

The older boyfriend simply shakes his head. He looks fondly across the table at Kamui. "Nothing. It just reminds me of something Hokuto said."

"Oh?" Kamui says cautiously, looking down at the table to hide his curiosity.

Subaru chuckles softly, reaching for Kamui's hand. His lips brush the top of it before lowering it to his chest. "It's not painful." He assures. "It's a more pleasant memory."

"The day before a job, Subaru won't eat any meat and in the morning he takes a bath whether It's summer or winter."

"Subaru?" Kamui breaks him from his trance. It was probably for the best. With memories of Hokuto often came Seishirou.

"I'm just fine," Subaru responds easily enough. He takes a big swig from the coffee mug before him.

Kamui wrinkles his nose, reminiscent of a rabbit, and tilts his head to the side. His lover is overcome with something striking his heart at the scene. He leans forward, brushing messy locks of hair away from those beautiful eyes he loves.

"You're very cute," Subaru compliments him fondly. There's not a sense of shame, Kamui can't help but flush wildly.

"Huh? I'm not..." Kamui processes his beloved's comment. "You are too." He finalizes with a cute pout, not helping his case. They fall into each other's eyes with a challenging expression, before falling into a state of euphoric laughter. Their breakfast can't help but go quickly but smoothly.

"I'll need to do the purification rite out where there's a more natural source of water," Subaru tells his love, who patiently listens as they approach the spring.

"O-outside?" Kamui blurts without thinking. Subaru turns a light shade of pink but brushes it off with a fond little laugh.

"It's entirely private here," Subaru assures his younger lover. He places a hand upon Kamui's shoulder. "You're the only one I'll be bare for."

Kamui squeaks at the sudden response, and how accurately his love could read him.

Subaru opens his mouth to possibly add more but stops himself. It wouldn't make the ritual all that easy if he got too lost in those thoughts.

"You'll be okay," Kamui breaks his thoughts.

"It shouldn't be too long," Subaru assures planting a sweet kiss on Kamui's lips.

"All right then...I'll probably go for a walk…" Kamui mumbles a little shyly as he tries not to steal too many glances of his lover heading towards the spring, disrobing.

There's something so graceful about the movement...it's hard for Kamui to look away. He does manage but… with hesitation.

Kamui did find benefit in this job, in more ways than one. After the rite, his older lover emerges from the temples, dressed formally in his Onmyouji attire.

There was something special about this. Kamui got to witness his boyfriend in his ceremonial robes. Violet-blue orbs rake over every centimeter of his love's elegant figure. There's just something about it… that brings out even more beauty and power than usual.

The long, open sleeves hang elegantly over his lover's perfect form, reminding Kamui of wings.

The beautiful mesh of angelic white and lining of deep violet. It fits so perfectly, that contrast of light and dark.

"Kamui?" Subaru chimes in amusedly and can't help himself. His cute boyfriend is lost in some sort of thought that makes him flush like so.

Teasingly, Subaru walks up behind Kamui, wrapping his arms around the slender waist from the back. Soft lips pressed to the shell of Kamui's ear before blowing in it.

"Ahh! Su-Subaru!" Kamui jumps from the old, feeling his heart quake from the action itself and suddenness. His face burns with a crimson flame.

"S-sorry…" Subaru says peppering his little lover with little kisses upon his shoulders. "I guess... I couldn't help myself."

Still, there's a slight twinge of guilt to his tone. So Kamui leans upon his top toes, wrapping his arms snuggly around his lover. He pulls him in, only to stop midway. Warm breath ghosts over his lover's lips. "I-I don't mind if… you do that… stuff more."

Kamui's vocal admittance comes as a slight surprise to himself and his boyfriend. He finds no reason to retract the truth of his words.

"I'll keep that in mind ." Subaru returns softly, with such a tender whisper. "As much as I'd love to continue… right now…".

Kamui felt a wild shiver coursing down his spine. The movement is not quite like what he's felt before. There's obvious desire and impatience following. A passion often masked away, seemed to burn into Kamui. The younger male isn't certain what to make of how weak those words alone made him. Nor how… he felt the urge to happily surrender.

"We should ah…" Subaru brushes a finger down his cheek. He seems to have realized his slips. "Head out."

"Right!" Kamui explains with a little too much vigor. He rushes ahead out of the temple, despite not remembering the way.

Subaru watches all too fondly with soft, gleaming eyes. He walks up to Kamui, taking his lover's hand, staying as close as possible before their real work begins.

Departures

Incense flows through the room beautifully. Kamui finishes lighting the last of the candles within the dark room.

The elderly client remains in the other room for the off chance a less benevolent spirit may interfere.

Kamui sheepishly walks over to his lover, sitting with his legs folded properly. He makes a conscious effort to straighten his back. He hands his beloved a few talismans, consisting of various elements for protection and offense.

"Thank you, Kamui," Subaru takes the first ofuda from the pile. Green and gold orbs scan over the ink upon the paper. He checks thoroughly making sure nothing is out of place. Something done at home yet needing to be on the safe side, he does. Subaru holds a private smile, his light pink lips upturn. "You've been improving."

"Thank… you…" Kamui says with a bow of his head. The raven locks of hair fall in front of his face briefly, concealing the spray of pink. "I'm sorry… it took me so many tries…"

"You're learning." Subaru shook his head. "You're doing incredibly well Kamuu." He barely refrains from patting his protégé on the head.

When brilliant stars dazzle upon violet-blue skies, Subaru stays temporarily entranced. He clears his throat.

"I'll begin… my Shikigami will act as a guide around the home," Subaru explains, he places a hand protectively on Kamui's hip, pulling him to sit closer. "On the off chance, there are more… harmful spirits I want you right next to me."

"Okay I'm guessing I won't be able to do much on this part…," Kamui responds with a nod. He looks around the room. The "decorations" he placed hardly seem as significant compared to his mentor.

"You'll get there," Subaru says with some confidence, Though part of me hopes you won't. Guilt takes over at the thought. It doesn't quench the desire to protect Kamui, letting him live a safe, peaceful life. But assuring Kamui has a life free from such danger, despair, and tragedy… to just be a teenager enjoying life. Was it really the right call to bring Kamui into this?

The experienced Onmyouji shakes his head, this was Kamui's decision. Dual-toned eyes come to a close, as the spiritualist finds his center.

Kamui holds his hand tightly, squeezing it in a protective manner before his love begins.

Subaru held a thin sheet of paper infused with a special ink forming the shape of a star.

Placing the paper down on the floor brings out a near blinding light. From that light emerges the mystical winged creature. Its wings light, still shining from the summoning and three heads turn to Subaru.

There's a psychic connection. The bridge between Onmyouji and Shikigami was perfectly constructed. The spirit animal takes off, into a realm beyond the little room they were physically in. Within this realm, it's much easier to find the spirit instead of waiting for it to show.

It takes a moment, Subaru finds his winged partner returning to his side. The man's spiritual form follows along to the needed spirit, drawing it out from the open.

There's a sincere older man, standing beyond. His long silver hair falls to his back, and piercing blue eyes stand out as they look back. Their color and the mix of emotions flowing out. Sorrow, frustration, regret… the blend of emotions comes in a little too strong.

"I'd like to talk with you," Subaru requests of the spirit.

"An Onmyouji…" The older man shakes his head, the feeling of loneliness overwhelms all. Feeling this strong takes on a physical shape. Subaru holds onto both sides of his head, wincing in the pain.

"Of course, she would put my happiness first…" the spirit mumbles to himself. "Always wanting me to go on being happy… but without her."

"I'd like to help both of you as much as I can," Subaru begins, feeling the headache lessening a bit. He moves his arms back down. "I know I can't process all of your pain, but I'll do what's in my power."

"You're quite kindhearted," The older man comments. His smile turns bittersweet, "I suppose it's time… if you won't mind hearing the rambles of this old man."

"Please," Subaru feels a sense of relief. The process is going smoothly, fortune seemed to favor them today. There wasn't a trace of an angered spirit lingering in the home.

Subaru awakens to a sharp sting. His eyes flutter open, seeing Kamui squeezing his hand exceptionally tight. His violet-blue eyes seem to be on the verge of something.

"I'm alright," Subaru coos so gently, squeezing the hand on his own. He barely manages to stop himself from embracing and kissing Kamui deeply. His thumb moves to caresses and calms the hand and its harsh grip.

"Sorry…" Kamui adverts his eyes the best he can. It's for naught being this close. "I was worried."

"I'm sorry for that," Subaru begins and with relief, the spirit had been truthful. He returned, gone from his hiding. He looks at the anguished spirit with the best of his strength.

"Kamui, can you bring back our client?" Subaru requests. Kamui nods fervently. He shivers only slightly at the feeling of a spirit there. Though the space beside the table, where his lover is staring… he can't see a thing. Perhaps with time… he could see and communicate as well.

Kamui exits the room to return to an adjacent room. His quiet footsteps alert the woman. Swiftly the older woman pops up from the chair, dropping the book in her hands.

"He's come back?" She asks with a storm of emotions.

Kamui nods at this and leads her back. She follows with some uncertainty, it's a quick step over. She can sense a loving presence in the room. The conversation with the older man has begun easily enough.

"My wife and I were childhood sweethearts… never spent a day wondering who we should be with."

"That's wonderful. You've always been together," Subaru speaks outwardly, and he turns to the older woman. "He has some things he'd like to tell you. If that's alright."

"Of course it is," She proceeds with earnest.

"He is able to hear what you say out loud," Subaru informs her.

The first words from her mouth seep out. Her eyes welled up with deep tears. "I have and will always love you."

Subaru looks toward the elderly man for a response. Though he seems a bit more choked up, holding tightly to his chest.

"Tell her I love her as well. More than anything. That I wish for her to be happy."

Subaru turns back to relay that woman. His eyes flood over with tears, feeling the presence especially strong.

"I only wish for that as well," She returns, heart on her sleeve. "For your happiness… above anything else."

"My happiness comes from seeing her smile."

Subaru turns back to repeat the words. Adding on. "You both wish for each other's happiness above all else."

"I can't stand to see her in pain… leaving her alone like that…"

Subaru takes in the words before relaying them carefully. He puts the focus not to take on too much of the spirit and clients' pain. Then the main question comes out. "Is this the reason you can't pass on?"

"I want to see her happy. To return to doing what she loves."

Subaru turns back towards the shaken client. She takes in the words slowly.

"What I love…"

"I want to see her smile one more time. To see her do what her heart connects to one last time."

"He wants to see you smile again. Doing what your heart connects to," Subaru quotes the words.

"But… how can my heart connect to anything… again…" The older woman breaks out, she eyes something from the other room.

"I want to see her play that song… once more. She will know what I mean. "

"That will be enough to pass on?"

"Yes."

With that decision, Onmyouji turns back. A sympathetic smile on his lips as he speaks gently.

"He wants to hear a song played. One you know." Subaru informs softly, finishing with. "To see you smile again and play that song."

"That will help him to move on… to the light?" She cries and trembles.

Subaru nods in confirmation. Kamui does his best to comfort the crying woman, bringing her to a chair in the room. "How could I… She sobs for a moment, missing any words of concern for her.

"Alright…" She complies after several moments of silence. Her eyes were welled up with emotion. "But I will play that song only once more."

It would be too painful to play again.

Subaru nods at this, returning to where Kamui is and placing a comforting hand on the client's shoulder. "You can take the time you need," He assures kindly. The comforting hand moves to Kamui, brushing down his arm. There was a clear sense of empathetic pain his younger love was going through. The desire to go off comfort Kamui through this had been hard to suppress.

"It's best I do this now… he's been lost here for far too long," She holds an admirable resilience. The group is led to a joining room. An old black piano, covered completely with a silky white sheet-like cover sits in the corner.

She removes the cover slowly. Her hands brush alongside the beautiful instrument. One that brought so many sad and happy memories to life.

Slowly, she makes her way to sit on the stool. There's something graceful, as she sits up straight, looking alive, as her fingers graze over the keys.

"One last time…" The woman laments, her fingers expertly begin to glide across the field of white and black.

Her belated love watches with intent, eyes on the pianist and only on her. A slow melancholic song fills through the air, causing shivers to everyone in the room. Her audience watches with awe, and a mix of pain as the tears fall endlessly.

Still, she doesn't miss a note, playing completely and thoroughly. The spirit of the man hovers over at the piano, hands held above her own. She feels the gentle touch, keeping her going further. The happiness, feeling of her loved one brings out more tears. Through the pain, she plays on until the final note sounds off and finally a true smile graced her lips.

They were able to connect one last time, her precious person would be able to pass on.

In the end, the spirit of the elderly man turns to Subaru. His expression matches that of his wife, tears streaming wildly, yet overcome with a sense of happiness they could connect one last time.

"Thank you…" He speaks sincerely, slowly fading through the living realm and to where his spirit can be at peace. Surely watching over his beloved from the heavens.

Subaru watches fondly as the spirit leaves, content to move forward.

"I can't… hear or see him but I feel it… he's…" Kamui murmurs, leaning close to his beloved. "He's gone? "He hushes, sadly, eyes dark and somber.

Subaru nods to confirm. The hand upon Kamui's holds securely, a little tighter than usual.

"I'm glad you're here," Subaru whispers as they exit the home. Kamui smiles softly at this.

"I need you here," Kamui expresses in a breathy murmur.

Subaru's arms reach out expectantly, and he is brought close. Protective arms circle Kamui's core, pulling him into a warm embrace, beyond what any words could convey.

---

Familial Expectations

The next task requested was not one that seemed too out of place. It sounded like another family member passing on and clinging to the house of their loved ones. Still, being extra careful was a priority. Subaru kept Kamui intimately close to his side.

Which was not a problem on its own, but the world's prior savior could not do so much as take a few steps before feeling yanked back to his protective lover. "Subaru…" Kamui quietly huffs, feeling his back pulled against a protective form. He cursed himself for giving in so easily to the warmth, not being able to stay upset remotely. Though a prodigy of power, being lost in his thoughts was not something that could go past him. He nearly found himself walking headfirst towards a large tree, which seemed eerily surrounded by spiritual energy.

"Careful, Kamui." Subaru's warm breath cast out as a warning. The younger man couldn't find it right to complain more. Though he had his thoughts on the matter, Kamui let it be. Subaru grasped his hand and kept his precious person close.

Kamui couldn't help but feel, he was guided back to his lover's side like a puppy made to heel. The hand on his own helped ease his frustrations, it was entirely unfair. The gentle smile, a soft curl of his beloved's lips shouldn't make his heart race this wildly. Though he found his other hand clinging over his throbbing chest.

There was some reason to be cautious. As their walk over brought out the presence of several different auras. Spirits that appeared earlier did seem oddly attracted to him. Just those with weak energy flocking towards him on the walk like a moth to a flame. Even if Kamui only could feel them, and could, it was plenty unnerving enough.

So they were here. Now was the time to be Investigating an old mansion. The client was said to be a young woman in her early thirties and native to Kyoto. However, the person answering the door appeared a good decade younger. The golden-blond hair and bright blue eyes showed she was at least of mixed blood, standing out among others.

"I'm so glad you could make it today," She answered with a slight accent, further proving she must have grown up outside of Kyoto. The young woman smiled bittersweet. Her hands were perfectly manicured and she anxiously folded them to her chest.

Subaru simply nodded, at the young woman, bowing his head in respect. As though he weren't the leader of the most powerful clan of Onmyouji.

"It's just…" Her deep blue eyes seemed to deepen lost in her world. It was saddening yet seemed to contrast a lot with her glossy, royal blue dress. One assumed to show how she fit the role to inherit such an elaborate home. "My partner and I haven't been able to get a moment's peace for the past few months."

Kamui felt a bit bad at the relief the start of the statement brought out. 'She's with someone. Good…' his thoughts felt reassuring. Subaru was entirely his, but it was far from uncommon for clients to swoon over this was better. Of course, he wasn't happy to hear someone in distress. He let a contented sigh escape, under his breath, knowing his popular Onmyouji was so sought after...

Thinking more clearly, Subaru hadn't gone out of his way to hide how they were as a couple. Nothing too outlandish, but holding hands or keeping an arm loosely around Kamui's waist on their trip was nice.

The woman didn't seem remotely phased at the soft and gentle looks the two males gave to one another. Kamui soon found out why. When the door opened a second time to that mansion, a young woman likely to be the aforementioned partner stepped out.

"Miyuki!" The client's eyes brightened, as though the color had finally returned to the world. However, those eyes did narrow, seeing the other woman, dizzy, holding a hand to the side of her head. The blond hurried over the woman. The blonde's hands were gently cupped over the taller woman's shoulders. "I wanted you to sleep in." She spoke so softly….

"Alicia," She spoke the foreign name softly. She returned the blonde's look tenderly. The woman appeared to look around 10 years older, taller, with long black hair cascading down her back. A hand brushed across the delicate cheekbones of the woman beside her. The world indeed was full of couples.

"I'm alright. It makes sense for me to discuss what happened." She begins before turning back to the Onmyouji and bowing. The young heir held a regal way in which she spoke, politely as he flipped a hand under the long tresses of black. "I'm sorry for the wait, please come in. I can tell you a bit more about this place… since my grandmother's passing."

'Miyuki' as the client introduced herself, stepped through the doors of the lavish home. There was one maid, with long blue twin tails dressed traditionally in her black and white outfit. She approached the heiress, whispering something to her..

"It's fine," The reserved girl mentioned vaguely. "I've come to show them over to 'that' room." There was a cold eeriness about the tone. Something seems off about it being solely? a relative.

"As you wish." The soft-spoken and proper maid went off to continue whatever duties they had been assigned in the next room.

"Please, follow me." Miyuki turns back to the believed pair of 'Onmyouji'. Her cherished beloved, 'Alicia' walked closely at her side. She whispered something into her love's ear. However, the quiet heiress shook her head. The two women stay closely ascending the tall spiral staircase.

"You alright?" Subaru whispers, seeing Kamui look apprehensively at the floor above. The younger man nods, not wanting to hold their job up, over a feeling.

"I'm fine. I guess I'm getting used to all these new situations." Kamui's answer comes a bit shaky, but that isn't all.

So, reluctantly Subaru dropped the subject, not without holding tight to Kamui's hand, in the least till they traveled fully up the stairs. A hallway of pictures of the current heiress and her family was displayed in large frames all across. Though there seemed to be a recent edition near one of the other rooms, displaying the two women in what appeared to be some sort of marriage ceremony.

"It's right here, where I've noticed the changes," Miyuki turns back abruptly, her eyes steeled and numb to something about this. She pressed her hands flat, pushing two tall doors to open, revealing a very open ballroom. It was something similar to where CLAMP school held its festivities. The luxurious marble floors were clean enough to bring a reflection, as gorgeous gold and crystal decorations were displayed amongst the walls. A beautiful chandelier, seeming from a few centuries ago hung elegantly. Something about it was like a castle, but the entirety of the room was bare.

This time the heiress' wife, as it seemed, stepped in catching perplexing looks around the room. "Because of the rather...uncomfortable presence here we've moved everything out. It hasn't been too popular of a room to be in for some time."

"That's a mild way of putting it, Alicia," She returned tenderly, taking the other woman's hand warmly within her own. "I don't think it's merely my grandmother's spirit here anymore…"

"When did that change?" Subaru inquired, cautiously walking around the dreaded room. Though truly he couldn't feel anything active within this space. Not now anyway…

"Around a year ago…" Miyuki replied…"Though it was mild, to begin with…"

"Do you think it would be someone else you know?" Subaru asks, again, leading Kamui in tow. He guides his protege around the room, gently gliding his hands over various areas of the walls, and decor along the walls, feeling if there were any presences from earlier. Though it was vague at best.

"I'm certain it's my family." Their client shook her head and smiled bitterly. To which her worried partner rushed up to her, placing a hand on her shoulder and whispering something sweetly. The older of the women brushes it off, giving an attempted smile through her own nerves. "They've never been fond of me." The women clasped hands again, looking with deep longing. The heiress continued as she felt her beloved lean in close to her side. "But regardless, I was accepted as the next heiress."

"What exactly is your family involved with? some kind of business or…" Kamui couldn't help to voice his curiosity. He quickly bowed his head. "Ah...if that's okay to ask…" He flushed at his quickness to respond. Subaru gave him a soft smile.

"Fortune-telling," Miyuki answered with a bit of a forlorn. "A particular kind my family is known from. We've been able to predict the future through art...though of course, it doesn't mean we have the strength to prevent it." There was a pain in the woman's darkening gray eyes, as she refused to meet any others.

Though it seemed whatever shield she brought up, faltered. Her blonde beloved leaned up close, resting her head against the brunette's shoulder. Her delicate finger gently clasps around her partner's arm. Then brush down the sleeve of her blouse gently.

"She's incredible, entirely invaluable. Miyuki's family has a history, surely known for their art...and to a degree predicting future events." The blonde firmly shakes her head, quick to the defense. "But no one's come close to what she can do. Her accuracy and sense of premonition are beyond anyone before her! So of course she had to be the one next in line."

"Ah...Alicia…" The soft-spoken heiress blushed brightly, nervously playing with her heir.

"She's more amazing than anyone I know!" Alicia fawned with a dreamy glint in her eyes. The younger woman left a kiss on her partner's cheek.

The soft yet sudden act of affection seemed to catch the heiress off guard. Her cheeks burned up with a deep scarlet shade, as she ducked her head down hiding her embarrassed face.

"Perhaps, I went too far…" Alicia consoled her embarrassed partner. Still, she held her clenched hands into the air with determination. "But still, I wasn't simply boasting about her earlier. She truly is that incredible."

"I've been able to sense her powers since we arrived," Subaru, who had waited patiently, returned to only agree with the woman's feelings. "I don't doubt you," he answers, smiling politely. "I've heard from and met fortune tellers since I was a child. And know the aura between those who are gifted in divination versus those doing it for profit."

"Thank you!' Alicia beamed brightly as though being given quite the compliment. The young blond woman simply went starry-eyed hearing the comment and immediately looking back to her beloved. "She really is incredible! and!" A finger is pressed to her lips, it seems the embarrassed brunette has recovered.

"That's enough...I do appreciate it though," Miyuki returns quickly, before clearing her throat. The regal air about her seemed to return as she gracefully flips the back of her hair. "While I have my own 'gifts'..." She slightly scoffed at the term. "I'm not able to do more than predict the future of another. Not interfering or even communicating with spirits around. Not outside of my own paintings at least…"

"I understand," Subaru returns politely. He makes his rounds around the room, whispering to Kamui about various areas of the house to look for. Mainly items that may hold a specific attachment within the room. "I don't mean to seem doubtful to either of you but...this room now doesn't seem to host any kind of spiritual energy...At least, not one I'm able to sense." He turns down to his protege for his input.

"I'm not as experienced...but I can't say I've felt anything here either…"

The heiress smiled bittersweet at this. "In the daytime, it's often quiet here...though I can't say the same for the night. Perhaps with nothing here right now...we could talk over this moreover tea. Maybe you'll even sense something elsewhere in this house."

---

Chosen Heirs...

Kamui sat nervously beside his boyfriend on one side of the table. Or his 'mentor' for now...though judging by the way the blonde woman was giggling, she seemed to have an idea about their true relationship. The youngest in the room, hesitantly sipped from the elegant calla-lily teacup in hand, mainly listening.

His boyfriend sat up properly. Certainly, he was raised with the utmost care and mannerisms befitting a Sumeragi head. While he was quiet as usual, Subaru listened intensely to their client's words offering his own insight and one question in particular.

"I don't mean to bring up something too unpleasant here. But...would you happen to know why your family's spirits may be lingering here? I'm guessing there is some envy but if there's anything else you can think of…"

Both women turned towards each other. The heiress held deep apprehension in her dark gray eyes, curling her hands within the center of her lap. Her beloved placed a hand tenderly over her own. They hushed something between each other before it was decided who would speak.

"I feel that's part of it. My grandmother...parents...others may hold resentment for a different reason." Miyuki answered with heiress seemed unbalanced as she closed her eyes. Images of an unpleasant past resurfaced through her mind, causing her to wince. Her love held tighter to her. "Given my own position in the family...I was expected to settle with an arranged marriage some years ago. I never planned to go along with it. That was further solidified when I met… my precious Alicia."

The aforementioned woman blushed furiously, unable to hide an embarrassed but pleasant smile. She placed both of her hands up to cover her heated cheeks.

Kamui winced a bit, looking up at Subaru. Hopefully...I don't look that obvious around Subaru. He softly sighs. 'I'm probably worse.' Especially, when those pet names or sweet nothings were whispered all around.

"We met back when Alicia was just a college student. Taking a program to study abroad." Miyuki recalled the story fondly. Her eyes glimmered with happiness and fondness as though she returned to that blissful time already. "I knew I was older...and a woman...and living thousands of miles away from her. But...I fell in love. Neither of us has been able to part since that day."

"It's true, my parents were surprised. Not about the liking girls part but certainly the fact I wasn't coming home right after school," Alicia returned with a certain bliss. The more light-hearted woman scratched at her own cheek sheepishly. "But they got over it a lot easier than Miyuki's family."

Miyuki scoffed, "I'm sure, they still believe I'm being 'shameful.'"

"Because you were in love with a woman?" Subaru surmised, there was a slight pang within his chest. Fortunately, his sister had always supported him. His grandmother came around easier than expected, seeing how torn her grandson was… just turning seventeen, coming out...after the betrayal of his first love.

"Maybe that was part of it at first…" The regal heiress shook her head. An elongated sigh fell from her lips. "But my mother and grandmother were mostly concerned about having an heir. They even tried to make a bargain…" She scowls at the recollection, eyes turning to an icy cold stare. "That I could stay with who I loved...so long as I would agree to 'legally' marry a man of her choice, one whose powers along with mine." Her tone seeped with anger, eyes narrowing harshly. The touch of her current beloved's hand hadn't quenched that rage entirely.

"I would have to have children to become the next rightful heir...maintaining the farce of a marriage and family. Keeping being with the one I truly love is a secret!" There was a near growl as she followed up. Her eyes overheated with a sense of rage. "As though I could ever agree to live my life as such a lie! To hide away who mattered most!"

"Miyuki…." Alicia turned towards her spouse. Her hand reached up to brush through her love's long strands of brown-black hair. The method seemed to soothe enough.

With a long, and frustrated groan, the heiress calmed enough to continue. Her cheeks dusted pink at her failing composure before shaking her head. "Anyway, I gave the ultimatum. I'd leave the family entirely if I couldn't be allowed this happiness. I'd continue to be an heir...perform divination and maintain that image...But I'd never lie to my heart like that."

The blonde beside her shook her head. Her blue eyes glistened, feeling the pain of the brunette beside her. "It hasn't been easy...but there's been an increase of spirits after the tragedies of last year."

Kamui couldn't help but wince. He all too easily recalled the destructive powers of the dragon's tearing through the earth for a sense of a revolution. Subaru didn't hesitate to hold Kamui's hand, lacing their fingers properly.

"My family holds a lot of grudges towards me. Though their spirits seemed to wander for some time...they've grown more aggressive. From merely haunting the home itself to breaking and demolishing in and around the home.. And the events I've been able to predict so far are only getting worse." Miyuki summarized her own situation. Though her heart seemed to sink despite her distaste for her family. Clearly, the haunting played its toll.

"Perhaps, you'll be able to sense more about them near evening time. We only want to live together and be happy...I'd hate for this home to be abandoned and destroyed by those spirits. But if it still can't be stopped we'll need to leave…" She continues on sadly, eyes shaking painfully. She closes them tightly. "I can't put the person I love in danger living here any longer. So, please, I need your help, to help these spirits finally pass on."

"We'll do everything we can," Subaru assures with a sense of politeness but sincerity. The story itself was draining, so truly getting a break before evening brought on some relief. He bows his head, guiding his protege to do so with a hand behind his head. Kamui reddens at the amused smile his lover holds for him.

---

Hauntings

With a brief moment of respite, Kamui and Subaru packed a bag of various candles, essences, and ofuda. Everything needed to be set up..

Being just before sunset, they had made their way out towards the extravagant mansion. This visit around, both Subaru and Kamui felt a shiver through their core as they walked through the entryway.

They began their spiritual cleansing in the aforementioned room. It was reminiscent of an empty ballroom that seemed to hold a particular attachment to the departed.

"It feels… different," Kamui noted hesitantly, as he carefully placed an array of candles around the room. This mixed with the soothing incense were arranged and lit up one by one.

Subaru hums confirming his protégés response. "There are a vast number of spirits which find more comfort being active in the night."

"I thought that was something just from movies." Kamui lightly jokes, enjoying the way his boyfriend's lips quirked up at the comment.

"It can certainly vary," Subaru answered simply enough. He waited for Kamui to kneel close beside him. "But there are spirits specifically attracted to the night."

Kamui hums in confirmation. He brings out several large squares of paper, along with them, the specified ink his mentor had requested of him. The younger of the two lightly traced over the seemingly ordinary piece of paper.

"Thank you," Subaru expresses softly, leaning in and pressing his forehead to lean against Kamui. The latter squeaked as his expression flushed bright pink.

"Subaru?" Kamui asked, a little concerned by the unidentified emotion in his love's eyes.

"It's nothing...just I guess it is nice not to always do this on my own," Subaru admitted with a tender tone. His finger gracefully traced over the hand of his beloved.

"I'm happy I could come along." Kamui's eyes lit up brightly, exposing a gorgeous sky blue highlighted amongst all of the violet-blue. He subconsciously licked his lips, looking away a bit shyly. There wasn't a way to stop this feeling or deny the pull bringing them back together. They fell helpless into the other's tender gaze. Just for another brief soft moment.

Kamui's slender hands handed a single sheet of paper to his mentor. Written within the center of it was a star with a symbol inscribed within. An image often tied to practicing Onmyouji.

"Are you going to enter...that realm again?" Kamui asked in a soft whisper, his eyes averted down. A reassuring hand held over his own, turning and squeezing him tight.

"I'll be alright," Subaru assures and clasps their hands tightly. He closes his eyes for a moment, in concentration. "I'm bound to you, so long as you don't let go of me."

"I won't!" Kamui promised, his tone so earnest and sincere...it took the older man a solid moment to calm his racing heart.

"I know you won't," Subaru presses on softly. He grasps for the sheet of paper within one hand, closing his eyes and infusing a small portion of his own energy to activate the spell. Soon enough he would be brought into the realm between the living and departed. The astral plane was pitch black, spirits not coming out as openly as they had before.

Subaru hadn't noticed just how hard Kamui was clasping his hand. His mind became lost within the dark realm, various images of tarot cards, glowing orbs, and classical portraits were haphazardly spread all throughout the realm. First, and foremost, Subaru had taken notice of the three-headed bird flying above his shoulder, awaiting directions.

"Please, see if you can find any restless spirits here," Subaru requests the spirit, which takes note of the order and flies off. There is only a weak feeling of any spirit hiding here. Which could be a relief...or something else entirely. That would be...if the spirit was not attempting to hide away, it meant it felt no qualms for making its presence known in the physical realm. That would match with the description given by their client.

The spiritual realm was beginning to take the form of an older version of the client's mansion. With whatever spirit present, displaying paintings and drawings in the sand showing an array of life events from new births to...untimely tragedies.

When his precious Shikigami returns, it appears worn and winded. The sense of another spirit upon it is present, though soon enough that too begins to fade off.

'Young Onmyouji…' An eerie voice calls out to the spiritualist, something about the tone being spiteful. Surely, the spirits here held to this place for their own reasonings. Though as the voice appeared it left within this owl realm hidden away and…

"Subaru!" Kamui's pained call breaks through to him. That with the immense pressure, squeezing his hand has him returning to the realm of consciousness before he can understand what he had witnessed.

"K-Kamui-" Subaru starts out, blinking slowly and feeling his entire body tacked to the ground. Kamui shivers, arms holding his love in the vice-like hold. He shakes his head, burying it further between his love's neck and shirt.

"You scared me!" Kamui screeches out, voice cracking and fueled with worry. Guilt takes overseeing tears threatened at the base of violet-blue orbs. "I...I kept calling for you...and these strange….spirits started showing up here!"

"I'm sorry-Kamui…" Subaru's apology flows out sincerely. He clasps soothes and eases Kamui's hold on him with a tender touch. "Wait...you said…" though the latter words take hold. "There are spirits you okay?!"

"I'm fine…"Kamui nods feverishly, he just barely moves, allowing his mentor to sit up. Any sense of embarrassment or shame is washed out and over through the sense of fear. "I can only sense...but it seems like there's...'" he pauses, looking down frustrated, on how to put it. "A lot of them here...I think…"

Subaru's hand glides to the back of his protege's head. "I'm sorry I worried you." He expresses, allowing his worried protege to stay close to him for a moment, long as he feels out the layout of the mansion. There certainly was a sense of something more powerful here...which was unnerving on its own. But several spirits alone were more than enough to cause worry.

"Stay behind me," Subaru instructed cooly, taking Kamui's hand and guiding him close. There was a sense of urgency to his voice that had the younger male instantly comply.

"Alright…" Kamui agrees, softly, There's a familiar star symbol upon the paper talisman, releasing the sight of several white birds, taking survey of the haunted room.

Creeeeeak. The sound coming from above.

Something was certainly here...making its presence known. A bright beam of light blinded the center of the room. Several light bulbs appeared to shoot out on their own accord. Each glass orb being unnerving directed to wherever Kamui could be.

"Kamui….I think-"

"No, I'm staying with you!"

Kamui had been obedient enough to stay right at his protective mentor's side. There was no way he could live with himself leaving his love behind to get hurt.

Though still, whatever spirit was here held an air of malevolence. Regrets flooded the Onmyou's fine. There was a blinding light something akin to a dark almost black color.

When Subaru could get a good enough look at one of the lost souls. It appeared to be that of an older woman with long black and grey hair. Her eyes held the same color as their current client, there was a sense of rage, red glowing within them.

There was hardly time to focus, like a flock of spirits, hosting menacing aura's continued to spawn. Their features blurred by slightly resembling their client. Kamui squeezed at his hand with reassurance, there was an unnerving presence here. One he could only hope would be calm enough to communicate or at least be exorcised.

Several, glass and metal hanging decor were ripped violently from the vast room. From above the remaining bulbs were torn right from the chandelier all of which were shot in the direction of the two young spiritualists.

Subaru found himself moving fast, unable to take a second to think more than act. He grasped for several more ofuda, from the talismans came several white bird Shikigami to target their attackers. The small but powerful birds began diving in towards the poltergeists, pecking at and driving away several of the unwanted guests. There were so many spirits appearing in fleets, it became near impossible to pinpoint all of them.

The sound of a chandelier crashing down nearly made Onmyouji's heart stop. Especially when he found his Kamui calling after him.

"Subaru! Watch out!" Kamui shouted, lunging towards his beloved and knocking him to the ground. They had just barely managed to dodge the attack, the end of the chandelier creating a small cut upon the older man's leg. Though he hadn't done so much as flinch.

An intensely powerful aura exhumed around Kamui. His entire form glows with an even more blinding light around his person. Those violet-blue eyes burn with a seething rage, this time seeing enough of the spirits who dare strike at his most precious person.

It was almost as though an entirely different Kamui was coming out. More accurately, these powers coming out were untamed, dangerous….and as omnipotent as Kamui could be since his awakening.

"Kamui…" Subaru hushed out, scrambling to his feet and holding Kamui into a tight embrace. They were far too bound not to sense each other even through such bouts of rage. "You need to calm down now...alright...I don't want you going too far or getting hurt!"

Kamui had to close his eyes, already overwhelmed. His senses were overwhelmed by the sheer number of spiritual presences, entering or at least appearing within this realm. Though combined they were nothing more dangerous as a fly, compared to Kamui's power.

With a heavenly burst of light. Kamui's eyes began to glow, much like his first days coming to Tokyo, he felt no reason to hold back. His energy was rampant like a hurricane engulfing the stray spirits. A large flash the size of a dome-like kekkai, is the last scene, before the traces of every single spirit are gone completely.

"Kamui…" Subaru quickly rushes towards his precious person. Kamui was unstoppable when exerting that much of his power. Though when arms wrapped around him, bringing him to a sanctuary of warmth, he was able to break free had to take several deep breaths to even think of words to say..What was on his heart came to words before anything else.

"Kamui…" Subaru soothes his beloved, speaking gently. Though he turns Kamui to face him and embraces him incredibly tight.

"I-I'm sorry….I just…" The guilty feeling became replaced with a raging fire. "I can't stand anyone trying to hurt you like that!" Kamui professes, eyes lingering towards the fallen chandelier on the ground several feet away. Surely, the commotion throughout the mansion had woken up its guests.

"It's okay Kamui," Subaru murmurs entirely lovingly, lost in his bubble with his beloved. Comforting Kamui would always be a priority. He allows Kamui to cling on to him, despite the pain of his strength, assuring they were both still here.

Kamui nods, snuggling into the crook of his mentor's neck. He purrs at the feeling of such a tender voice whispering soft and soothing words.

"I'm not going anywhere," Subaru assures, happy to see Kamui ease within his arms. He then looks around the torn-up room. "They've left this real entirely...we should head out now if you're alright to go." With those words, Subaru was entirely hesitant. Letting Kamui into this world...he couldn't place if it was alright to do or not.

The sound of cries and whispers resounded from the lower levels of the mansion. Though, fortunately, their current clients were able to listen and stay away from a safe distance. Their voices were heard from the lower level of the home.

"We'll return home soon," Subaru ensures, whispering softly to his lover. Kamui nods softly at this. He gently reaches for his boyfriend's cheek, dizziness blurring his vision. Though he hadn't made it to this point, exertion catching up to him, his glimmering eyes closed quickly.

"Kamui?...Kamui..." Subaru tried feeling his precious person completely out. "Kamui...please…" Irrationality, fear, and a strong sense of love overwhelmed the 's heart would never calm until he could see Kamui open his eyes.

---

Awakening…

Kamui shot out of his bed with a deep pang in his core. He winced at the sudden movement, falling back against the unfamiliar bed. There was a warm weight upon him. alongside tears trailing down his shirt.

His hand was clutched painfully tight. "Subaru…" Kamui calls gently, heart aching. Just long had he been there, arms folded, and head resting beside Kamui's beautiful, long eyelashes quickly fluttered open, feeling his lover's presence return.

Emerald and gold eyes are hazy, red, and weary as they take in the sight of familiar violet eyes.

The life and sight within those beautiful eyes is enough to bring the older man to full alertness.

"Kamui!" Subaru cries out desperately, as though breathing air after being denied for so long. The older male's long fingers glide their way across delicate cheekbones, and all across a smooth jawline. Kamui his eyes closed softly, leaning his face towards whatever direction his lover chose to touch.

"My Kamui…" Subaru whispers, as though a tone louder may shatter this sense of relief. He leans forward, a wave of emotions enrapturing his soul as he kisses all over his beloved's cheeks. His hand delicately turns up Kamui's chin, angling him so their lips can meet in a deepening embrace.

"My angel, Kamui." Words are professed so earnestly and open. The younger male finds a fire lighting through his features. He feels almost dizzy from the blood rushing to his cheeks.

"Subaru?" Kamui asks cautiously, though he does allow himself to be distracted by several lingering kisses. There's a sense of something painful, a draw of salty tears graces the younger man's tongue. "Where...are we?"

Kamui curiously glances around the unfamiliar room. The words are out there, and it feels as though a cruel blizzard rushes through the warm paradise they had been wrapped up in. Agony and darkness shade over enchanting gold and green eyes. Kamui shivers to watch the color drain from his lover's already pale features.

Finally, his pained boyfriend answers. "The Sumeragi's private hospital…" His voice sounding a million miles away.

"Subaru?" Kamui calls for his love again. This time he takes the initiative to sit up, the most he can without a returning ache. His hands reach out to soothe and caress the worry lines from his beloved's face. "What's wrong…?"

"You… don't remember then?" Subaru asks cautiously. A mixture of fear, love, and worry overwhelms those dual-hued eyes. The gem-like colors seem to dim further, taking over by a dark shadow.

"A little… before we started heading back to the house…and I saw something trying to hurt you then…" Kamui swallows, hating to see the light fading from the eyes he loves so much. He attempts to retract his hand, but there's some relief, his lover holding it in place.

"Then you really don't remember," Subaru confirms wearily. He breathes out a slow, agonizing breath of air before continuing. Slowly, he kisses and lowers Kamui from his cheek to the bed. Despite his torn emotions, he keeps them linked.

Kamui shakes his head at this. He soon finds his head guided back to lay upon the pillows.

"You started using that power again…"

"That power?"

"I think…" Subaru runs a hand through his own air anxiously. "A latent power you have as… thee Kamui."

Even expecting Kamui to react doesn't stop the sharp ache in his chest. Enchanting Violet-blue eyes wince painfully shut.

"W-what do you mean…?" Kamui feels his heart lurch, with how distant his usually doting lover felt. Aside of his lover, he had known through the darkest of times. Of losses.

Subaru doesn't respond right away. More so he couldn't. Instead, he holds up their linked hands and brings them to press against his temples.

"I don't know how to describe it… but a power you've held inside for some time… one maybe… tied to your emotions…" Subaru heaves another pained, worrisome sigh. Kamui takes in just how bloodshot his love's eyes have become.

"Well… if something tries to hurt you… of course I'd want to stop it."

Subaru shakes his head feverishly. His tone remains firm as he presses their joined hands against the mattress.

"You shouldn't if it causes you pain…" Subaru argues his point. He gradually pulls up the sleeves and hem of his lover's shirt. Several red scratches and bruises appear all across light milky skin. "I should have accounted for this. Thought ahead about the powers you've gained before… I'm sorry Kamui…"

"But I…" Kamui begins to protest and feels a finger over his lips. His words are stolen away.

"With how strong you are… and with more of your own power…" Subaru shakes his head, tossing around stray strands of black. They fall in front of his face like a shield. The onset of new tears can barely be hidden. "I don't even want to think about what could happen."

"Then… I'll have to keep working on controlling my powers won't I… and then next time-"

Kamui can't finish his thought. His heart lurches deeper and more painful than he imagined he could feel. He never expected to be on the other end of… or perhaps to witness such a look.

Subaru had always graced him with gentleness, and warmth. Always, no matter how much stress or tension they felt in their day-to-day lives. Now… Though those warm, shimmering eyes of gold and emerald became steeled, cold and hollow.

No… this wasn't a look directed at Kamui. This was a look brought on from an immense fear, and emptiness. His lover seemed a million miles away from him, as his eyes seemed to darken further as the mere insinuation of what could have happened.

"No," Subaru at last speaks. Even with the hint of pain, and slight anger… Kamui feels relieved. To see emotion again. He leans up through the pain, leaning his head to his boyfriend's shoulder. "There won't be a next time, Kamui."

"But… I-"

"There can't be!"

The sheer agony those words convey, and the broken soul struggling through tears shatter something deep within Kamui.

"I understand you're worried… I mean the thought of you being hurt is why I must have reacted in the first place…"

"I shouldn't have let it get to that point…"

"But isn't it better that we can be at each other's side? So we're close when something like this does happen?"

"I never should have brought you along in such a dangerous situation." Subaru reiterates his sense of guilt., not listening to Kamui's pleas.

"You didn't know everything… Subaru… and I can't stand the thought of knowing you've been working like this alone for so long." Kamui attempts to console, leaning in to press a few soft kisses over his lover's worried forehead.

Subaru winces at the touch. And shakes his head, so lost in the event something should happen to his irreplaceable love. "I'm used to this kind of work. I've learned how to control my own power…"

"Then I can learn too, right?" Kamui makes his point, again working towards pressing reassuring kisses on his lover's cheeks.

"No."

"But… why?"

"It's…" Subaru doesn't know quite how to voice it. There's a side of him that tells him to stop, to breathe, and let Kamui's comforting touches soothe his worries. But there's a sinking feeling, those terrifying what it's that makes him continue. "It's different, Kamui. You weren't trained for this kind of life. I can't let you come with me anymore. You were far too reckless and I..."

Kamui huffs for a moment. He groans out the word. "It's my choice. I want to be by your side, Subaru. After knowing how much danger you put yourself in, I'm even more sure."

"It's not up for discussion," Subaru speaks coldly, heart-wrenching with pain.

"But that's not fair... " Kamui whimpers slightly, hating the feeling of tears begging to rush out.

"I know it's… not Kamui… " Subaru shakes his head affirmatively, hiding the pain of tears from under his eyes. "But I can't lose you…"

"You won't lose me…" Kamui promises, deeply and sincerely. His eyes begin to glow as he tightly holds his beloved's hand bringing them to his chest.

"How can you say that…" Subaru begins, taking a deep breath. There aren't enough words in the world to convey every emotion shattering inside. Now, the most painful side of Subaru comes out. Something finally snaps within his calm boyfriend. He rises to his feet, heart screaming out, "You were out for two days, Kamui!"

"I…" That stopped Kamui, a feeling of ice rushing down his spine. "I really had been...for that long?"

Subaru doesn't respond this time, hurting far more than any words could. If he had to answer, confirm that nightmare again, he might break. He wasn't in a state to keep it together. He can't let himself break in front of his lover, not after his own outburst.."I… I'll be right back…" Subaru speaks in an apologetic tone.

Kamui finds his world crumbling, time seeming cruel and slow as he watches his lover step out of the room. He felt his heart sinking deeper… Being denied from his lover's world and knowing Subaru held so much pain. He wasn't sure which would be worse. It makes him clutch at his chest. Beautiful yet pained violet-blue eyes begin to shiver, turning glosses before they almost violently rush down with emotion.

Subaru brought himself within a private bathroom. Clenching upon both sides of the sink, wondering if the water could mask the eruption of pain...and guilt inside. Subaru looks into the mirror with deep regret, to the point where he can't bear to look at himself. He turns towards the walls, his hand clenched, hitting the wall. It couldn't lessen the pain.

"I'm sorry, Kamui…" Subaru breathes the words he should have said. He thinks how he should have kept the conversation focused on what mattered, Kamui came to. Gold and emerald eyes bring out heavy drops of pain, unknowing his beloved was doing the same.

"Kamui…" Subaru finds his hand slipping from its place on the wall. As he gradually slips down, falling to his knees. His heartaches. "I just...can't lose anyone I love again." The lingering emotion played through his mind over and over. "I can't lose you." his eyes release everything breaking him inside. "I'm in far too deep."

~End?~

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A/N: This chapter ended way sadder than I had planned. There are a lot of raw emotions for both Subaru and Kamui. Subaru keeps to himself more often. With things going so well before with their jobs, it seemed the last one would be the same. He hadn't expected Kamui's powers to be dangerous to himself. Of course, Kamui went overboard with his own power, making him weak. Subaru hadn't left his side, staying beside Kamui the full 48 hours. There are a lot of emotions here, but don't worry they will always find a way to make things work.

So there's angst and pain, I don't know why I do this. I guess there is bound to but there's an overwhelming feeling that these two will always love each other and stay at each other's side.

Side note: I just added names for the clients in the latter half of the chapter. But Miyuki is not the Miyuki from Miyuki-chan in wonderland. Though I did choose the names matching the theme. Alice or Alicia in this case went along with the wonderland name.

Another quick side notes: I get inspiration from a lot of wonderful SubKam stories on here. The story "When the World Ends" by Bemused_Writer inspired me to write more on the spiritual world one access to, and the Shikigami, and of course Kamui being at his side. It's a wonderful story check it out if you love SubKam~

Thank you all for reading, commenting, and giving your kudos. This story was first posted on 9/19/20! Meaning the 1 year anniversary is here ^^ If there's anything you'd like to see/read in the next chapter (or a story in general) let me know! Take care!