Author's Note: oh wow I'm up here now? Nice.
I just want to put up a disclaimer: this is a fluff chapter. I don't think anything remotely important to the plot is happening aside from lore-dumping via pillow talk. Honestly, this chapter would probably be better off deleted but considering the heartaches of the latest episodes in JJK Anime, I figured you guys deserve some comfort content.
Let's hope Ciel's presence will change some things! When we get to that point!
Also, spoilers for Hellsing and Hellsing Ultimate.
Yuuji slowly opened the door and peeked through the crack. It was the middle of the night, some time after he, Ciel, Gojo and Nanami finished their mission at the abandoned hospital. He was crouching at the edge of his bedroom, holding onto the doorknob as he looked into the dark hallway on his left. He quietly started to etch out of his room in his yellow t-shirt and blue shorts.
He was back at the warehouse where he'd been living and training alongside Ciel. His girlfriend was currently at another bedroom, somewhere on the other side of this building, and where he had in mind to visit right now.
After he managed to get to the other side of the door, Yuuji gently pushed it to close until he heard a tiny click, hoping that no one would hear the barest creek of its hinges.
Beside him, Nanami stood there with his back against the wall and his arms crossed. Yuuji jolted at the sight of the man, "N-Nanami-san!"
There was no explanation. There wasn't even eye-contact. All the man had to say was this. "Go back to your room."
Caught with no chance or hope of escaping, Yuuji defeatedly did as he was told and went back inside, complaining all the way until the door was shut. Seeing to the young sorcerer's retreat, Nanami removed himself from the wall and proceeded down the hall.
In a few minutes, he arrived at a different door. With a raise of his hand, his knuckles lightly knocked on the wood. Upon hearing no answer, he excused himself and opened the door, poking his head inside.
There was only a single bed by the window. A shape of a person sleeping underneath the covers. Spotting that familiar dark blue hair of Ciel, Nanami was satisfied, and he quietly left the room.
Closing the door discreetly, Nanami decided he would stand in the hallway for a little longer before heading home, and positioned himself against the wall again. While he despised his newly late-night schedule, he put up with it if it meant keeping an eye on Gojo's students in hiding. It should only be for a little while anyhow. Although, seeing how he just prevented Yuuji from sneaking out, he might need to check up on the boy and Ciel more frequently.
It really isn't any of my business what they do together, Nanami acknowledged as he leaned against the wall. His finger idly tapping at his crossed arm. There's some benefits to keeping them apart, however. In order to have them focus on their individual growths.
They're also young, with little impulse control. Better to make sure they do anything Nanami wouldn't do.
Yuuji laid on his bed with his phone in hand. His face glowed by the light of his screen as he stared at the text history between him and Ciel. He had send a few messages, but after seeing no response, Yuuji figured she went to sleep already. He placed his phone against his chest and stared up at the ceiling, wondering if Nanami was planning on standing guard outside his door all night.
Yuuji was honestly impressed by the man's vigilance. Maybe the adult knew that he and Ciel had been sneaking out to patrol the city this whole time. Damn. Guess Yuuji won't have his cuddle session with her then. Well, even if he couldn't see Elesia tonight, he could always see her tomorrow...
...
...
...
Yuuji decided to pass the time by watching some YouTube videos. He could see the corner clock on his phone that it was getting close to midnight, but he wasn't tired in the least. He had gotten used to sleeping with Ciel in the room, even more so with her in his embrace. Everything just felt too cold and lonely without her now. He also wanted to know what Ciel thought about the series they just finished watching, especially the scenes from Hellsing Ultimate that would probably keep a lot of people up all night.
Yuuji had seen plenty of gory Animes and movies, but after what's happened in the last month... He didn't feel as horrified watching those types of shows anymore (although that baby being carried in the mouth of that Nazi-Vampire was pretty gruesome), and not in a good way. It also helped that he wasn't alone while watching it, with Ciel giving some interesting, albeit fairly dark commentary into the gruesome nature that are vampires. She seemed to have changed her perception a little when it came to Alucard though - in the old Anime anyway.
His mind drifted to consider what he should make for breakfast in the morning. He knows how much Ciel loves curry, but he's pretty sure Gojo and Nanami are going to get sick of it eventually, although Yuuji could always make a curry side dish for Ciel specifically. She is a big eater after all - another attractive quality of hers... Damn. He really is having trouble sleeping. Is this normal? He couldn't be sure.
As Yuuji was watching a cat-dancing video, he heard the click of a doorknob turning. He paused the video and looked over, sitting up as he saw his door slowly open.
"...Yuuji-kun?"
Yuuji perked at that familiar soft voice. He soon spotted Ciel sneaking in, wearing her blue, polka-dot shirt and shorts for pajamas. Instantly elated at the sight of her, he tossed the blanket off of himself.
"Ci-!" He started off loudly but quickly covering his mouth, careful not to draw any attention or catch Nanami's ears. He cupped his hand beside his lips and tried again, this time quieter and with a big smile on his face. "Elesia!"
Ciel chuckled, her heart fluttering at the sound of her original name. She gently closed the door behind her. "I'm sorry if I woke you. I would have come by sooner, but it seems Nanami-san is patrolling the hallway. I managed to put in a perfect decoy in my bed, though."
There was merit in Yaga creating a cat-doll version of her after all, so long as Nanami only saw the back of its head, with two pillows to make up the body under the blanket. Simple yet effective. Ciel nodded proudly to herself at her cleverly put together deception.
Yuuji quietly laughed. "Nice! I wanted to stop by too, but I got caught."
He was glad to hear they had the same idea. Yuuji reached out both arms to her expectantly. His eyes sparkled as he awaited to hug Ciel right away, like an excited puppy wanting to cuddle their favorite human.
Ciel happily obliged, wearing a big grin on her face as she skipped over to Yuuji. As soon as she was close, Yuuji wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into bed, grinning at her quiet "eep!" as he hugged her close.
"Thanks for coming. I couldn't sleep without you," Yuuji said and started nuzzling his face into Ciel's neck.
She was instantly flushed by the graze of his kisses and squirmed in his hold.
"Y-Yuuji-kun! That-! Hehe! That tickles-!" She giggled gleefully as she hugged around Yuuji's head, feeling his fuzzy pink hair as she tried to hold back her squeal.
Yuuji was so thankful of the wards Ciel placed around the warehouse that allowed him this, enjoying her warmth and softness. He chuckled at her reaction and planted one more kiss on her neck before resting his head against her chest. Closing his eyes, he could hear the rhythm of her heartbeat. The notes of life lulling like a melody, and his body relaxed. He'd been awake before, but now, he felt like he could doze off any second.
Ciel caressed through Yuuji's hair with a gentle smile. "Truthfully, I was having trouble sleeping too."
The girl relaxed in Yuuji's hug as she felt him rub her back, "I wanted to see you, but maybe I'm really here out of my own selfishness?"
It felt too secluded having to stay in her bed by herself. It was as if she was expecting Yuuji to come into her room at any moment, having usually seen him sleeping in his own futon, and only recently the same bed as hers. How strange it must seem, that the 'Iron Maiden' would willingly seek out someone who could lower her guard like this. She had explained it to Nobara before. How even executors are not exempt from desiring a connection with others. Ciel just never realized this could extend to herself as well. She thought she killed and buried such emotions away a long time ago, but now, it seemed they've resurfaced, all thanks to the young man in her arms.
She gave little scratches to his scalp, and Yuuji shivered with delight.
"Please be more selfish," Yuuji sighed out, his breath tickling Ciel's skin that made her blush. "I'd want you to come see me. Even better if you can give me more head scratches like this."
"Oh?" Ciel was amused by Yuuji's easy to please attitude. She rested her lips against his head. "I suppose I'll just have to keep visiting you every night then. No scary, overprotective adult is going to keep me from you, Yuuji-kun."
She playfully asserted this, planting a kiss on top of his head, as if a seal of her promise. Yuuji tightened his hold of her, warmed by Ciel's sweetly given words. He pulled back and raised his head to see her. The instant he met her gaze, looking at him like he was the most precious thing in the whole world, he pushed forward and kissed her.
Ciel's breath hitched, her giggles mixed into it as she returned the kiss with her own. They held their breaths for a moment, their eyes blissfully closed. Once a few minutes went by, they parted their lips and pressed their foreheads together.
Yuuji kissed the tip of Ciel's nose, a signature of his at this point. "That makes me really happy to hear."
He gave her lips another kiss, adoring Ciel's every gasps of giddiness each time he did this.
"Next time," he said in between kisses. "I'll go through the window. Maybe even get a pink wig from somewhere. Hopefully, that'll fool Nanami-san."
There was a tender, yet slow intensity to it. A rose of euphoria bloomed in their chests as their legs interlocked. Without breaking their kiss, Yuuji reached down and pulled the blanket over their bodies.
She's too good for me...
He didn't deserve this. He really didn't. And yet this girl was so sweet and amazing enough to let Yuuji have it. Her incredible kindness. Her beautiful, strong-beating heart. Her ass. Her everything. What could he say? He was weak.
Thank God he left his cursed doll in the basement, he doubt he could stay calm through this. He really believed he would have given up a long time ago if not for that wonderful smile of hers.
Ciel gladly embraced Yuuji. Her heart dancing with long-forgotten joy at the warmth of his body - this body she wished only to protect rather than destroy. His hands that could crush stone that felt her gently, she was very impressed by that.
She didn't deserve this. She truly believed this and felt ashamed for even having it, but she couldn't help herself. He was like a home to her. Warm, cozy, welcoming. In a way that all her years working with the Church never felt. She knew he must still feel guilty for everything that happened, and that's why she was determined to help him through all that. To show him that he was not a monster in her eyes, no matter how much he himself believed it. That she was not afraid of him as he was afraid of himself, to lose what was precious to one's humanity. The understanding of another person's life and their importance. She'll make sure that such a dreadful future would never come to pass - no matter how many of her lives she must give.
Time was irrelevant for the sorcerer and the executor. And what felt like more than a few hours had gone by, they at last parted. Their noses remained touching as their heavy, warm breaths were felt between their mouths. They looked into each other's eyes and smiled.
Yuuji gave one more kiss to Ciel. "You want to sneak out?"
Ciel considered this for a moment. "Hmm. I don't think that's necessary. We did plenty of good work already. It'll also take a lot of effort and energy to dispel those seals should we find them. Besides, Gojo-sensei already has a head start. With his abilities, he'll be able to seek out and destroy any other seals around Tokyo, should they be active at the moment."
She dare say Gojo, by himself, might have what it took to exorcise the seals entirely. He is a fast learner, much like herself - provided he doesn't simply spam Hollow Purple on those magical seals.
"Let's stay in and rest. We'll need to recuperate before we should continue hunting for Roa and his minions. We managed to hinder him somewhat by destroying his servants, and with the barrier compressing him, he'll be forced to take shelter. Using necromancy to beckon so many of the dead like that, it takes quite a reserve. He won't be bothering anyone for now, nor desecrate anymore graves."
Yuuji's expression turned sullen, opening his eyes slightly. There was anger in his creased brows. "That bastard had no right to do that. Those were people. They were supposed to be laid to rest, and he violated that."
He couldn't imagine how horrible it would be if someone were to recognize the deceased - someone they had just buried not too long ago - suddenly on the streets again, a rotten shell of their former selves as they started ambling towards their loved ones for their flesh and blood. The grief would have been too much.
"Yes... Roa's actions are reprehensible. I don't think there isn't a single crime he hasn't done, nothing that the Church hadn't uncovered." Ciel's voice became distant as she gently stroked Yuuji's head. "There's no point to it - for all the suffering he causes. Whoever Roa the Human had been, he's disappeared into a sea of blood of his own carnal desires. I wouldn't want to get into details. It's that abhorrent. Something we could compare to that show we finished watching, actually."
She subtly changed the subject to Hellsing as she hugged Yuuji's head. "By the way, what did you think of that Anime? I find myself liking the older version better. Even if the newer version is more accurate to the manga apparently, not to mention the animation is quite crisp."
Yuuji calmed down as he thought over Ciel's question, opening his eyes. "Mm. It's a dark story, but that's how Horror Animes are. Kind of relieved that we're not dealing with a vampire like Alucard. And he's on the "good" side - I think."
"I wouldn't necessarily call him Good. Perhaps "Chaotic Neutral", or maybe "Neutral Evil" would be more accurate. I'll admit, he's a little more complex than I gave him credit for. I've only ever seen the first episode of Ultimate before today, so I never really learned that much about him. He seemed a little more composed in the first anime as well. While I still wouldn't hesitate to unleash my pile bunker on him (even if one hit alone won't be enough to kill him), he does appear to be more than just a bloodthirsty bloodhound - although it's without a doubt his favorite hobby still."
There was one moment about the character that caught Ciel by surprise, and she slowly turned to Gojo without Yuuji noticing, glowering at their teacher who acted innocent. He claimed to have not seen this series before, but that certain reveal seemed far too coincidental to be an accident. Even so, it was that instance where - even for her continuing dislike of the series protagonist - Ciel found herself understanding Alucard, and his desire to die by the hands of a human.
"Yeah," Yuuji understood where Ciel was coming from. "I'm not too sure about that guy. I don't really like him, but it does look like he regrets becoming a vampire, and he does care about the people he's working with. He's still pretty creepy though, especially that one scene."
"You're referring to when he was battling Rip Van Winkle?" As oppose to all the other scenes Alucard takes center stage of, that was the one that made Yuuji physically cringe - enough for his doll to nearly wake up. Ciel lets out a short sigh. "You really didn't have to cover my eyes for that part, just because Van Winkle and I happen to share a similar appearance."
"I couldn't help it, and also figured you wouldn't like watching it anyway (since it's a vampire sucking blood). Plus, you did the same to me! Even Sensei covered my ears. I still don't know what ended up happening..."
"Trust us. It's better that way," Ciel reasoned, her heart giving out to Seras upon seeing her past trauma. Their careless teacher really should have thought about watching the episodes before deciding if it would be a good idea to show them in front of an impressionable teen like Yuuji - whereas Ciel was already accustomed to gruesome scenes like that.
Yuuji pouted at the lack of explanation. He started playing with Ciel's dark blue hair, softly pulling the strands of her split bangs. "Who was your favorite character?"
"Alexander Anderson, of course! While I don't necessarily agree with all his approaches, and he does get overly excited when hunting vampires, it's nothing new when you've worked with the people I have. I still haven't gotten over how his story ended in Ultimate. It actually shocked me."
"Honestly, me too. I'm not a big fan of him, and I get a little on edge whenever he shows up on screen, but I never would have thought he'd go out like that. At least he's still around in the Original."
"Yes! Albeit without his arms. It's nevertheless one of the many positive changes I commend that anime for. What about you? Who was your favorite?"
"Seras was pretty cool. I like her humanization in the old one more, and she was a badass in Ultimate. Sucks about Pip, though."
"Yes. He's someone I lowered my head in respect for."
They closed their eyes in memory of Pip, and then proceeded to talk about their favorite version of Hellsing (which was the old one) and why. Their discussion ranged from character interpretations, plot, and a debate between preferring graphic depiction and censorship - which was an entire topic all on its own.
"-I wonder how the real Vlad would feel about himself being depicted in such a way? I imagine he wouldn't be all that happy about it," Ciel said, her head and hands rested against Yuuji's chest as his arms held around her back. "Despite the rumors and stories, he really was just a normal man who only acted like a vampire, what with his war efforts - or should I say, war crimes. I can assure you, though - since the Church was able to confirm it, there was no vampire that turned him. Only propaganda."
"Mm. That's a good way to put it," Yuuji said. "Now that I think about it, there's a lot of stories about vampires turning others into them, but I wonder who bit those vampires? The first ones I mean. Was there someone who just drank a lot of blood and started turning others?"
"...Not quite. It would be better to say that there are two types of vampires - those who were born as one, and those who were turned. Though that's another lengthy history I'll have to divulge." Ciel spotted Yuuji looking at her with wide, curious eyes, attentive already. "Oh my, would you really be willing to sit through another boring lecture?"
"They're not boring. It's a lot of information, but you make them interesting," Yuuji said as he rested his chin on top of her head. "Plus, I like hearing you talk."
"Hehe. Really?" Ciel felt giddy at the comment. She snuggled her face against Yuuji's chest. "Very well. It is actually a very important history lesson to learn. Gojo-sensei already knows, but considering what's happening, and the future remains uncertain..."
The memory of that woman in white standing in a field of flowers flashed through Ciel's mind.
"...It's only right that I should tell you more about the enemies humanity is up against, and how they all came to be."
Yuuji listened closely as Ciel began her oral lecture. "As you and many people know, the Dead Apostles are your typical idea of a vampire. Although not all Dead Apostles are the same, they do have one thing in common. They were all born as humans once. While it's true that Dead Apostles have the ability to turn others into vampires, one must wonder how did the parent vampire become one themself? How did someone like Roa managed to turn himself into a fully-fledged vampire? The answer is this... Long ago, the Dead Apostle Ancestors were a product of a blood craving from another group, their original masters; called the True Ancestors."
The True Ancestors were a species of incarnated nature spirits, brought into existence by an otherworldly entity, known as Crimson Moon. Their existence was a direct response to the threat that humanity posed against the planet, and so the planet called upon a defense mechanism in order to preserve itself. This led to the creation of the True Ancestors. A powerful race beyond human capability, and could achieve worldly feats - literally have the Earth itself bend to their will - in order to combat the parasitic existence that was humankind.
"...The planet's alive?"
"Please save all questions at the end of the lecture."
"Ah. Got it."
However, their existence came with a price. Based on the traits they adopted from Crimson Moon, a psychological defect was implemented; Vampiric Impulses. Despite the lack of necessity of it, there was a strong craving for human blood, forever coiling within the hearts, veins, and minds of the True Ancestors. They did not need blood to survive, yet their impulses were so strong, many True Ancestors caved to it, to the point where they lose their pure self as nature spirits, and instead become corrupted monsters known as Demon Lords.
This led to the creation of the Dead Apostle Ancestors, turning humans into those deadly and dangerous bloodsuckers that currently prowl around the world to this day. Though many Dead Apostle Ancestors were violent and vile, the reality was that they were also victims themselves, having been used as living juice boxes to satiate the blood cravings of a True Ancestor for countless years. It was only until the Dead Apostle Ancestors revolted against their masters that they managed to gain any sort of independence and freedom, and fled into the world, where they feed off of other humans and create more undead offspring for themselves.
"If not for the True Ancestors, there would not be any Dead Apostles in this world, destroying towns and lives left and right," Ciel's statement held a subtle vehemence to it as her eyes narrowed.
Yuuji understood, remembering Ciel's reveal of her past. Her own home destroyed by a dead apostle, and now another vampire just like that was here in Tokyo. He understood that anger very well, and he kissed her head to console her.
"They truly made this world more hellish than it should be, letting such monsters exist," Ciel continued, closing her eyes. "You've heard it yourself when I made a list of their rankings. Yet, not even the Dead Apostle Ancestors were as much of a threat as the True Ancestors had been - or at least, were. Most of them have been killed off a long time ago, by none other than Roa himself."
Yuuji was startled at the information, enough for him to pull back and look at Ciel. "Seriously?"
Ciel nodded. "That's how powerful Roa in his original body had been. Though, that was after he was turned into a dead apostle, and not by anyone's will except his own."
She looked down to Yuuji's neck with an almost somber look. "He seduced one of the True Ancestors - a young vampire, so to speak. Someone who didn't understand nor realize their own Vampiric Impulses. He managed to convince that person into drinking his blood, and have them suck it from him directly. He was able to stole a portion of their power for himself, and used that power to kill the other vampires. It is that power that even in his weakened state now, he is still dangerous. He was a conniving sort, even in life, it seems. Ironic, for someone who had been a holy man once."
Ciel debated if she should tell Yuuji about Arcueid. Though considering that the princess herself was still asleep in her castle, there may not be any point bringing up someone who likely wasn't going to appear any time soon. Ciel certainly hoped not. It gave the opportunity to end Roa herself, and so long as the barrier remains strong and active, Ciel cannot pass up on this chance.
But if Roa indeed planned to drain the magical energy from Japan's barrier, then he could weaken it enough for Arcueid to notice his presence at last. Perhaps that's what Roa wants.
Even if he would be left alone longer than assumed, he was more driven to attract Arcuied's attention out of anything else, beyond any sense. This whole city was simply a playground to him, and Arcueid was the pursuer in their game of hide and seek. Even then, she was not after Roa himself, but the portion of power he stole from Arcueid. That's why Ciel referred to Roa's endless massacres as pointless. For the Princess of the True Ancestors felt nothing towards Roa, but an obligation to follow through with her programming, and recover what was taken from her.
Perhaps that's another reason Ciel desired to prevent Arcueid from regaining her full power. With Arcueid's impulses, it would only be a matter of time before the princess would prey upon the humans of this world. It may take centuries, but should a fully-powered Ancestor like Arcueid become a Demon Lord, the devastation that would bring would be incalculable.
Therefore, Ciel must be the one to destroy Roa. Even if Arcueid wasn't weak in the slightest, it was better to leave the True Ancestor clipped rather than have her claws fully grown that could carve through the Earth's crust with ease. Ciel will need to be quick about it. But so long as there was Sukuna to be concerned of, among other enemies, she'll need to divide her attention evenly and entrust Noel to take care of observing Akiha Tohno, all while keeping tabs on Shiki Tohno on the side, in case there are any changes to his state also.
"...Man. What a real piece of work." More like a piece of shit. Yuuji hoped he could give one good punch against that vampire if he ever found him.
"Indeed. Although, even Roa was simply another victim of the True Ancestor's bloodlust. Had he not been bitten, we would not be in this situation, and the many cities before now wouldn't have been destroyed by Roa."
"You sure about that?" Yuuji asked as he rested a kiss against Ciel's forehead. "If he wanted to become immortal, it sounded like he would have done that regardless of who turned him. Just seems like he was an asshole in life that became a bigger asshole in death."
"Um. Well, maybe... B-But even so. I still think the True Ancestors were just as responsible for all the harm Roa has done." Ciel was willing to die on this hill to state this fact. "Even though there are many other ways one could turn themself into a vampire, those other methods could have made Roa less of a threat than he is now. Likely, the death toll and damage would have been smaller, and Roa could have been easier to deal with as well."
Convinced, Ciel nodded to herself. "At the root of it all, the True Ancestors were the ones who caused all this. They're a living personification of nature's opposition against the human race, so much so that they turn humans into Dead Apostles just to satisfy their own impulses. It wouldn't surprise me at all if that had been the intention. To see if humans can be herded and managed like cattle, despite the True Ancestors never needing blood to stay alive. Furthermore, succumbing to their instincts only made them crave for more blood, and they ultimately lose themselves in the process, leading others of their own kind to either seal them away or destroy them, as only other True Ancestors are strong enough to kill each other."
Her detest for the True Ancestors was deep and clear as Ciel spoke her viewpoint firmly. Yuuji was a little surprised by her speech, and he didn't blame her for it. Ciel must have seen so many horrors that led to her hatred for vampires. It's impressive that she still chose to spare that curry bloodsucker she talked about, worked with other vampires in her organization, and also end up liking Yuuji despite for his crimes through Sukuna.
"They sound seriously powerful," Yuuji said, pulling his head down further until his forehead touched with Ciel.
"Very much. You can't even imagine it," Ciel said, meeting Yuuji's gaze. "Not even Gojo-sensei, or even Sukuna, would be strong enough to defeat them (Yuuji: Whoa!). They're resilient, and resistant to magical powers. So having a mage fight them would be a death sentence."
While there have been no records of a Jujutsu Sorcerer ever confronting a True Ancestor, Ciel found it safe to assume that the end result would be no different than how a Western Mage would fight them. In any case, she would much rather Yuuji, Nanami, or any other sorcerer, never face the likes of Arcueid Brunestud. Ciel's taken quite a liking to these people, especially Yuuji. She much preferred for them to stay alive, thank you very much.
"They practically carry no weaknesses. Not even sunlight would destroy them. Although, they certainly have a preference for the night, so there could be a limit to how long they can survive during the day. Perhaps lasting the entire afternoon," Ciel estimated. "Not even the strongest weapons of the Holy Church can destroy them. The best we can do is weaken them, and then seal them away, which would take immense resources. The cost alone would be enough to push us into bankruptcy a dozen-times over."
"Geez..."
Ciel nodded. "I'm actually relieved most of them are gone now. There's only one remaining True Ancestor left in the world, but I don't think we have to worry about that one for now."
"Man... This world really is scary... But kind of cool, too," Yuuji said as he brought his hand to Ciel's face, his thumb grazing against Ciel's cheek. "You sure know a lot of things. Huh?"
"Not really. Just standard knowledge you would find in one of our libraries." Ciel humbly stated. It'd be more accurate to say that she has enough knowledge to fill up a good chunk of the Clocktower's archives. "There's a lot about the world that many people don't know. Those who do know, or desire to know, might find it all fascinating. It's one of the main reasons that drives most mages into pursuing the Root."
She lets out a deep breath. "I don't really care much for it though. To know so much, it's actually scary. You wouldn't even be human anymore. If I were to obtain such vast knowledge, I would want to forget it all entirely."
"Sounds like a huge burden," Yuuji noted, looking at Ciel curiously, a sense of concern in him as well.
"Perhaps, but it's the things that I do know that makes me a worthy contender to face the likes of that Infinite Reincarnator. If it can help us defeat him, then it's nothing that I can't handle," Ciel said. Her face relaxed as she picked up her hand and clasped the side of Yuuji's face, her thumb caressing his cheek as the young man gazed back at her.
"Especially if it's to protect someone I cherish. I'd take up any burden and assignments if it means keeping someone like you safe. You can trust me on that."
It's not simply her duty. She wished to protect Yuuji. Not by an order or a request. Not by any reason other than her own will.
Yuuji's eyes shimmered, his mouth thinning at the delicacy of Ciel's assurance, and he kissed her again, pulling her close as Ciel happily indulged his deep pecks.
At their break of their kiss, Yuuji rested the side of his face against Ciel's cheek. "You don't have to go that far for me..."
He kissed her happy pink cheek. "We're in this together. I wont let you fight by yourself. It's the least I can do..."
To thank her. If not for Ciel, the memory of her warm smile under a rainy day. The warmth of her body. Her words of reassurance. He would have fallen apart and sought death the moment he came back to life again, if not for that lovely smile of hers.
He added with resolve, "You've been a real comfort to me. To all of our lives. I know the others feel the same way."
Ciel's blush deepened. Her hands clasped the back of Yuuji's neck. She nearly gulped as she began to feel his heart beating against hers. "Well... That's a surprise. Most people usually can't stand having to eat curry with me everyday."
Let alone finding an agent of the Burial Agency a comfort to anyone, especially with her at times cold-blunt attitude.
"I like curry though. Even better with rice," Yuuji said with a light giggle, and he nuzzled his face into Ciel's warm neck again. "Your curry, my rice. We make a pretty good combo, huh?"
Ciel recognized that Toriko reference, having been introduced to the series by Yuuji the other night, and she chuckled at his comment and cuddling. "Hehe. I like to think so. We're both foodies and dog-lovers, and our teamwork is quite good. Although, I'd still want to make sure you're safe."
Ciel then had her fingers run through Yuuji's hair again, giving heaven-like massages that made him instantly thrilled.
"I also don't really blame you," she added with a somber look. "It's been an... unpleasant summer. If I could do something about it, even for a moment..."
If she could make him forget all those awful things that's happened, have him forget his pending execution, his code violated, his friend's mutilated corpse, the death of Satsuki, her victims and the victims at the detention center. Mahito, Sukuna, everything...
"You're more than that, though," Yuuji asserted, hugging her closely as he kissed her neck softly. "I mean, yeah, this is nice. Really nice. I won't lie, I kind of needed this a little, but you're not just a distraction to me."
He liked her for her. That was all there was to it. Her warmness. Her gentleness. Her funny side. Her cute side. Her courage. Her dutiful nature. Her inner strength (her outer strength was pretty great too). Seriously, how could no one fall for her?
Ciel was abashed by his earnestness, slightly smiling, "I wouldn't necessarily mind it. It's only fair really. I often have a low opinion of myself, but the truth is, my modesty is just an excuse for you to say nice things to me."
She laughed faintly. "See? It's alright with me. I'm very much attached to that sweet side of you. I just can't help but want it all for myself. So you shouldn't feel bad about wanting something like this."
Though that part was a little true, it was also Yuuji's kindness to others that really moved her. His empathy. His passion. His bravery. His funny side. His cute side. His amazing cooking skills (especially when it came to curry). And his truly infectious optimism that was such a rarity in this world full of callousness. It's hard to believe that no girl would be smitten by this young man after meeting him once.
"Heh. I think you mean the things you say about yourself, though," Yuuji grinned. "It's fine if that's what you want. I love seeing you get all flustered when I tell you just how great you really are."
"Oh you..." Ciel gently smacked at the back of his head.
Yuuji laughed, and he pulled his head back, looking at Ciel with the most adoring expression. "I mean it. I won't let you keep talking down on yourself, and I don't want you to think I'm using you as an escape either. I'm not going anywhere. I'll face everything that's happened head on, especially if you're going to be there to face them too."
Yuuji's eyes grew gentle as he clasped the side of Ciel's face. "I know you've been doing your best. For everyone. For me. To keep things positive. To make every day as good as the last, as much as they can be."
To not let him mull over his impending death in the future. The horrors he had witnessed and endured. If such things were left to settle, it would have certainly festered Yuuji's heart and mind beyond recovery. The disparity of it all. That's what Yuuji believed. Yet when it came to Yuuji truly in the depths of his abyssal thoughts, Ciel would act quickly to pull him out of it. To snap him out of his funk, or hatred, or anything that would have left him feeling like a repulsive monster that shouldn't be allowed to exist. Watching movies together, going out every night, cook each other meals, and talk non-stop until they fall asleep, that was all so that Yuuji wouldn't be left alone to drown in his sins and failures.
Yet it also resulted in Ciel keeping certain things to herself. To spare him of her own struggles, and distract themselves of the cruel tragedy of it all. He wanted to change that. Whatever he needed to do, he wanted to give back that same level of kindness he's been given. Because if there's one thing he refused to let happen, it's to leave Ciel alone in her own dark world.
"I've been trying to do the same for you. I don't know if I'm doing a good job or not, but I want to repay everything you've done for me. Because you deserve it, Elesia." Yuuji gives her surprised face one more kiss on the nose before adding, "I know there's still some things you don't want to get into."
His death. Her occupation. Satsuki.
"We don't have to talk about it. I don't want you to feel afraid to tell me anything, but I also don't want you to feel like you're obligated to tell me everything. So you don't have to feel bad either."
Pressing their foreheads together, Yuuji gently asserted as he looked into Ciel's widened eyes.
"I just want to make sure that you're okay. I don't care what happens in the future, as long as I get to be by your side."
After this spoken declaration, he indulged Ciel with more kisses. The girl broke out of her stupor and closed her eyes meekly. She had no words to say anyway. Just a bright red face that expressed every feeling in her heart, and a guilty conscience that continued to persist in her mind.
He wouldn't say this if he knew what you did.
She nonetheless couldn't deny this sweet embrace as Yuuji pulled the blanket over their heads. She'll be sure to apologize with her life in the future. In any case, his doubt that he was making every day of her life as pleasant as they can be was unfounded, for ever since she had walked into his life, he's been nothing but a light at the end of every abyss she always found herself in.
The next morning, Nanami was standing beside Yuuji's bed, looking over the young sorcerer who was hugging around Ciel's back as they slept peacefully. He decided to be patient until Yuuji was the first to stir. The boy slowly opened his eyes and saw the back of Ciel's head, where he smiled at and kissed it, resting his face there. It took him about ten seconds before realizing that Nanami was there staring at them and he turned his head to look at the man.
"Ah-"
Nanami promptly pulled Yuuji out of bed and started to drag him away by the back of Yuuji's shirt collar. This woke up Ciel immediately, and she sat up to watch Yuuji be taken away.
"Clearly, we need to enforce stricter security measures for the both of you," Nanami said.
"My girlfriend..." Yuuji held his arms out for Ciel as he was forcibly dragged across the floor by Nanami's strong grip. Ciel was a little bemused by the scene, and she could only awkwardly laugh at it.
Author's Note:
I might rewrite this later, but I figured you guys deserve, or rather need, this tooth-decaying fluff right now.
Wow. 30 chapters already? This has been my longest run yet. That's what dedicating yourself to writing up to 10,000 words or less can do for you. I have Gege to thank for this. He inspired me to skip the meandering and head straight for the important parts of the story (apart from this chapter that's just completely filler). Makes writing all that much more fun for me when you're looking forward to getting to an action scene or character interaction and so on.
That's what I think anyway, there's been a lot of filler chapters for this arc, but they're nonetheless really fun to make. Then again, it's also nice to pay homage to Nasu's style of writing. I can't write like him but I do know he's great at slow-burns. I hope I managed to do that good enough here too.
I'm gonna have to force myself to take a break after this, though. I really do feel like my brain is exhausting itself out but I just love writing this story so much. I might not be able to help it anyway, my Maladaptive Daydreaming is just too strong.
It might still be a while before we get to the Goodwill Event Arc, although I do have an idea what the last chapter for this Two-Month Training Arc will be - more or less, maybe. In the meantime, there'll be plenty of slice of life moments to read through, and gosh darn it Yuuji deserves some comfort! And he's not the only one.
Hope this was a good pass-time after the hell that happened to our characters in the JJK Anime (I haven't watched the episodes, I don't want my heart to break again. Sticking to manga for now!).
I also made some cute YuujixCiel drawings. I was gonna put them up on Archive of Our Own, but I forgot how to and I remember the process being really tedious. Just imagine Yuuji with wolf ears and Ciel with dog ears while eating curry.
Alright! That's it! See you nexxt time!