Author's Note

xXredtroopwrXx: That's been happening still?!

I haven't been editing discreetly?! The whole friggin world gets notified?! Constantly?!

I'm gonna throw up...

Hope you like this next chapter! I'm SO sorry for all the update notifications. Please let me know if I can turn it off and how. If there's nothing that can be done, no more edits after this chapter (except in AO3 and Spacebattles). *sobs*

p.s.: Hooray for 200 Follows and Favorites! Gosh, it absolutely warms my heart with how many new followers and favorites I get every time I open this app. I'm so thankful of you guys, especially for pushing through this fluff-exposition dump arc. Thank you!

After paying the driver, Ciel stepped out of the taxi car and set foot onto the stone pavement of a church residence. The church was on a secluded, grassy area, attached by a small-populated suburban town, hours away from Tokyo. On appearance alone, it's a rather small looking establishment. Perhaps only able to house about thirty people. A simple and plain aesthetic. If Ciel were to give this place another name, she would simply refer to it as a drop-off point. A "neutral zone", so to speak.

This is where she will be getting her Idea Blood Replenishment. While it's been some time already, the Greater Magical Energy that which her Idea Blood rely on were not yet full. Ever since her battle with Satsuki Yumizuka, she'd been running on dry and only Gojo had noticed this. He was also quite privy to this information, as proven by the appearance of Nanami who stepped out of the taxi cab with her.

It didn't warrantee a body-guard, but it may prove to be rather troublesome should some other highly-graded curse or vampire show themselves during Ciel's trip. His presence was just to ensure that there would be no delay to her return, especially on the off chance that they come across any sorcerer from Kyoto. A Grade One Sorcerer accompanying an Executor of the Holy Church would at least establish the veracity of their respective organization's cooperation, and have other sorcerers be less likely to jump in and intercept Ciel for questioning, be it gentle interrogation or not.

On the other hand, Nanami's presence may become mute regardless of whatever agreement was made between Tokyo Jujutsu High and the Holy Church. The elders of Jujutsu Society, although now know Ciel and members of her company have been standing on Eastern Mages turf for some time now, made no assurance that they would not stay their hands should they deem Ciel and her people to be a threat worse than the undead that have infiltrated their capital city.

This was all just dramatic speculations on Ciel's part. Depending on what sort of vampire they're dealing with, and who the shamans have available to fight, any actual success of taking over the entire operation would only last for a short while. Even so, the elders might as well be willing to overwork their fighters - students and professionals - to death if it means preserving themselves and their influence in Japan. There was also the Goodwill Event still scheduled to happen, probably out of stubbornness at this point, or to publicly show that everything was perfectly fine, unyielding to the pressure that was Tokyo's uncertain future. Perhaps there would be attempts to reach out to other mage groups, or neighboring countries, for assistance? Though, that in itself could bring further complications on the Church's side.

It really is all so exasperating...

Ciel sometimes wished she could go back to a simpler point in her mission. When she was just here to look for Roa. Make sure no one noticed her. Then permanently kill the immortal vampire. She would have avoided all this annoying political hurdles. But then she wouldn't have spent as much time with Yuuji, and she would rather deal with all this tension than miss him and his curry-making skills.

"What's wrong?"

Beside her, Nanami spoke up after hearing Ciel's light sigh. The man closed the door behind them, having paid extra to keep the driver here until they finish business.

"It's nothing," Ciel assured. "Just thinking how tedious it is to come all this way. I would have preferred it if this was done in Tokyo."

But with all eyes on them now, one can't help but wonder how someone might react when a suspicious cargo arrives at their doorsteps. Especially if this cargo was originally supposed to get past Japan's security. Thank goodness Ciel had already smuggled in most of her essential tools and weapons the first week she came to Japan. If even one of them was discovered by a sorcerer assistant, there would have been various people fretting that the Church was plotting an invasion of some kind.

"Are your people concerned that we might confiscate your equipment?"

"Perhaps, but there is another reason. This process of transferring the "wine" energy to refuel the Greater Magic within me will require a second party assistance. Unfortunately, the only other priest available can only meet us halfway. She has her own duties to uphold in her city, and she cannot be excused from it for long."

"There's no need to dumb it down for me. Gojo-san had already told me about your implanted Idea Bloods," Nanami said.

"Really? That saves me the trouble of having to explain them then. I was worried that you or Yuuji-kun might see me as something less human and more of a vampire," Ciel responded light-heartedly, adjusting the long dress of her nun habit as they started their walk for the church.

"It makes no difference to me." Nor does Nanami think Yuuji would care either. "Gojo-san and Itadori-kun are hardly someone you'd call 'normal' humans anyway. I'm curious how you are able to sustain that amount of Idea Bloods, however. Normally, anyone who is injected with vampire's blood - even a little - will turn into vampires themselves. I'm also wondering why you withheld those abilities against Sukuna."

"You are right that, normally, a vampire would need to transfer their blood into others to create more minions for themselves," Ciel began to explain. "With the number of Idea Bloods I have in me already, you can hardly say that I'm something human anymore. However, through the Church's careful surgical procedures and this body's unique condition, I was able to retain my humanity."

To a degree anyway.

"I could also simply drink from the vial, but that would most certainly turn me less human if I had no one to observe my body's condition, stabilize the effects, and ensure that I would not become a monster. I wouldn't be able to use its innate power either if I did so. Even for my immortality and unchanging state, it's not something that I should take in constantly like supplements. As for not using it against Sukuna... I did use at least one or two versions of it, any other Idea Blood I have in store would have been too destructive to unleash in a public setting. His quick reaction and understanding in both cursed and holy arts surpasses that of even the brightest students of my company. And he seemed fairly resistant to most of my rites after he consumed his third finger."

"He was resistant to them?"

"Yes. The black keys I wielded should have damaged him severely, so he had to cut them down quickly before most of them would pierce through his flesh. If he was a fully-fledged curse, it would have been over. Having taken over Yuuji-kun's body dulled most of the effects, and even then, he exerted himself and needed to refill his cursed energy - twice."

Sukuna's consumption of several hearts all at once, with plenty of those victims likely possessing untrained cursed energy, all that temporarily accumulated into Sukuna having enough magical prowess to make up the difference in power and even use Ciel's own strength against her, until he had to cut off the circulation in her brain, preventing her from unleashing the remainder of her massive magical output for one big exorcism spell. It was like having to fight him at four or even five cursed fingers.

"He was also a huge cheater," Ciel said with a huff. "Though that's to be expected for someone who knows he's weak."

"You should probably abstain from insulting him so openly." Even Gojo knew to respect the name of the dangerous King of Curses. Nanami adjusted his specs. "I'm not disagreeing with you. Curses do rely on dirty tricks in order to gain the upper hand. Just be careful not to attract anymore attention onto yourself from someone like Sukuna."

No more than the cursed king already had.

"Oh please. I doubt that thing cares what I have to say about him. Though, I suppose he is something like a child, taking in the delight of squishing ants underneath his thumb. I wouldn't want him to hurdle anymore obnoxious insults or tantrums at us, so I'll take your advice into consideration." Though after today, Ciel believed they won't have to worry about that for long.

Nanami decided not to point out her resuming jab at the cursed king in discussion, and they arrived at the entrance of the church. Ciel pushed open the double-doors, and they were met with a deep melody of the organ playing inside.

Inside the church was a dimly-lit nave and two rows of wooden benches. Sunlight streamed through the windows, with one hovering above the chapel at the end of the church. A stained glass picture depicting the Holy Grail, spilling its glowing golden essence on the communion table.

They hear the music play overhead as they stopped in front of the long rug that stretched to the chapel. Nanami picked his head up and spotted the top half of the piano on the second floor.

"Is there a mass being held today?" Nanami asked, attempting to see the player above but could only make out their white hair, the rest obscured by a wooden railing, like a barricaded wall.

"There isn't. This place has been specially reserved for us. We should expect no other visitors for the rest of the day," Ciel informed through the music. She moved to take a seat at the pew closest to the stairs. "The person up there is no doubt who we are here for. There's no need to call her down. She is already aware of us."

Nanami joined Ciel and sat next to her, subtly adjusting his strap underneath his white coat. They simply waited as the music continued its orchestral play, echoing across the church.

"Is she deliberately ignoring us?" Nanami asked after sitting for two minutes.

"Not really." Ciel answered, her hands clasped together as if in a prayer. Her eyes closed as she listened to the melody. "There are many of our members who worship by either bending the knee or playing an instrument. This is simply her praying. It shouldn't take too long."

"Are we sure this isn't just her way to seem mysterious?"

"There is that possibility." A quiet amusement in Ciel's tone as she kept her eyes closed. "She's a devout, is all. Though even shamans are guilty of adding a little flair in their lifestyles."

It was an interesting viewpoint, considering their earlier conversation during the train ride, when Nanami had questions of what to expect upon arriving to this destination, and it led to Ciel telling him about the priestess they came to find...

A few hours earlier...

"Are they another agent?" Nanami had asked. They were in their seats on a moving train, having already left Tokyo.

"No. She works as an exorcist like you, specializing in recognizing possessions and such," Ciel answered as she sat next to the window and its passing view. "I've met her father, but this will be my first time meeting with her personally. I only know of her through rumors, some of them less than pleasing to hear. However, I find myself sympathizing with her upbringing and condition."

"Such as?"

"Her mother suffered from immunodeficiency and committed suicide. After that, her father gave up all parental rights and surrendered her to a priest. Years later, her father was killed, and it was only just recently she was turned into his successor, having been stationed here in Japan. There is also her ability, which has an uncomfortable side-effect. It centers around detecting evil or corrupt spirits. She's essentially a radar, though it causes her great pain once a "demon" presence is nearby."

The executor then added, "It was actually due to her that the Church was alerted of Sukuna's awakening. She was one of the exorcists considered to locate the source of Sukuna's revival, but was unavailable at the time."

So that's how the Church found out... Nanami made a mental note of this. A person who could not only sense, but physically detect the presence of evil spirits. It was a good call to leave Yuuji back in Tokyo then, with Ciel being adamant about it despite her subtle woes and Yuuji's sad puppy-dog look, clinging to each other as if she was about to cross seas for months. (Yuuji: you just come back safely okay?) (Ciel: you be careful too. I promise to be quick).

They definitely could use the separation. It was starting to get a little annoying how cuddly those two were. It didn't help when Gojo played into their dramatic tear-jerking moment by acting this way towards Nanami (Gojo: make sure to bring back the milk this time, okay dad?).

Nanami wondered if this exorcist they were meeting could locate Sukuna's other remaining cursed fingers. Though if it does cause the exorcist immense pain, it might be too much to ask unless they were her employers. Gojo likely wouldn't be as considerate, and would probably treat this exorcist like a metal detector if anything.

"She currently resides in her father's church in Fuyuki City as its new head priest," Ciel continued. "Under normal circumstances, someone of her rank would not be given that position despite being a kin of the previous owner, but it seems she has been assigned there to oversee other spiritual corruptions that have been active and aggressive as of late. There is another significance to that city, though I'm sure you are already aware of it."

Just the name of the city alone was enough for Nanami to understand. The history of that place, and what every jujutsu sorcerer had to be prepared for, to clean up the mess of every aftermath, for every fifty years.

"It's also possible that the Church decided to grant her that position as a means of seeking redemption in her father's place," Ciel resumed.

"Redemption how?"

"Her father had committed a serious offense, the likes of which even I have been shocked to learn. The Church decided to obligate her in answering the penalties in his steed. Nothing too gruesome, just some more work and excessive labor to be done." Ciel sighed. "I suppose it was only fitting how he went out. He'd been an abhorrent man in life, and so he was felled in an abhorrent manner."

"Was he one of the victims during the Great Fire?"

"No. Rather, his death came sometime after that. At the hands of a certain rogue sorcerer you, Ieiri-san, and Gojo-sensei knew."

"-! Are you saying...?"

"That's right. The one who killed him was none other than-"

Within the humble church, the echoes of music dulled. The keys of the organ began to slow down, until a final note was played, lingering in the air in finale. The organ player rose from her bench, and she stepped towards the stairs, where she made her way to greet the awaiting visitors who stood up at her approach.

"Welcome, Sister Ciel. And welcome to you as well, Jujutsu Sorcerer."

The organ player in her nun habit finally introduced herself. A young girl with snow-white hair and yellow eyes, appearing to be no older than fourteen years old. Her pale hands clasped together as she cordially greeted the visitors, indeed fully aware of who they were as she bowed her head. "I apologize for the upkeep of this place. I did what I could to make it seem welcoming."

Another child... On second thought, perhaps Gojo would hesitate in making this girl into his own curse detector. At this point, Nanami shouldn't be so surprised, but to assign this literal child as head priestess of her own church was going a stretch too far now. It was becoming gradually off-putting how often and casual the Church was giving children the work load these days. Not that the Jujutsu elders were any different.

"Caren Hortensia, I presume?" Ciel pointedly referred to the girl with white hair. "The exorcist and current Head Priestess of Fuyuki City."

"Yes. It is an honor to meet with an agent of the Burial Agency," Caren humbly proclaimed in a soft and delicate voice, as if she were in a library where not a single rise of sound must be uttered. "Shall I prepare you and your companion some refreshments? Or perhaps you would like to relax first?"

"There's no need," Ciel said as Nanami also respectfully declined of any drink. "It's best that we do not prolong this. It is regrettable to suddenly pull you away from your city, but it seems it cannot be helped."

"I do not mind the trip. If it's anything to do with assisting an agent such as yourself, I will do what I can to the best of my abilities," Caren said and then turned her body towards the chapel. "Let's not waste time then. This way, if you would please."

Ciel then turned her head to Nanami. "It's best if you wait here. The procedure will require some... well... exposure."

There was a subtle hint of embarrassment in the executor's expression, and the meaning behind her words was made loud and clear.

Nanami was quick to raise his hand in alleviation. "No need to explain. I will wait here then."

Ciel nodded gratefully, and with that, the shaman watched as the executor and the exorcist leave the nave. Through the door at the back of the church and into another room.

Nanami moved up and took a seat in front of the chapel, crossing his arms as he waited in this now silent environment of holy grounds.

He received a notification from his cell phone and pulled it out. Seeing the message, Nanami responded to the text, informing Gojo of his and Ciel's current whereabouts.

"Yosh! Looks like they made it." Gojo announced, reading the message through his black round glasses before putting his phone away, slipping it behind his pink apron. "Depending how long it'll take, they might get back by tonight. That leaves you enough time to finish all this, 'Yuuji-kun~'."

Beside him, Yuuji wore his black apron as he resumed his mixing of the batter with the bowl in his arm. The young sorcerer nodded at his teacher. "Mm. Thanks again for helping me with this, sensei."

"No problem. Just make sure to sneak me a few of these snacks when you're done," Gojo said as he tossed another piece of strawberry into his mouth. "Watching you make so many of these sweets for her. She's been real good to you, huh?"

"Yeah..." A faint smile in Yuuji's breath. "More than good. She's pretty much spoiling me at this point. I want to treat her to something nice before she and Nanami-san gets back."

It was only right for Yuuji to do so, even if these many pastries alone won't be enough. To give as much as she's given him. Plus, with the city under constant threat of vampires taking over, it's got to be really stressful for everybody to deal with, especially Ciel who's in the crux of it all. He wanted to ease that with something she likes before they go out patrolling tonight.

His teacher smiled as he poured a carton of milk into another bowl. "She's been a decent teacher to you too. Keep it up, and you'll be bringing more to the table at the Goodwill Event."

"It feels a little weird that that's still happening," Yuuji said with a perplexed look. "With everything going on, shouldn't they cancel it to focus more on Roa?"

"Probably. Although that's also probably because I haven't told anyone about Roa yet."

"HUH?! Really?! I-Is that a good idea?"

"In hindsight, no. This whole thing is complicated. On one hand, everyone should know about Roa and work on finding that vampire together before something worse happens. On the other hand, if everyone gets too excited about looking for Roa, that might cause some more problems, and put further strain between us and the Church. It's all about who finds who first, who has the right to look into where, and if things get too messy we might just end our alliance completely, and we'd be back to square one."

Furthermore, they don't want to tip off any servants of Roa, or Roa himself, if it turned out he really was hiding within Jujutsu Society. As far as Gojo knew, everyone was a suspect - the elders, their colleagues, even their own students. They can't be sure who to talk to and who to trust without cutting down the list first. They already got one lead, the hospital, to follow up on - though that by now was already taken over by Mario's people, and Gojo doubt he'd get everything about that place and its occupants' history so easily. Not with Mario's goal.

So much for working together...

"But won't it be bad if someone finds out you've been hiding this?" Yuuji asked.

"I'll tell eventually. I told Yaga-sensei about it already," Gojo revealed, picking up a spoonful of chocolate syrup to 'taste test'. "I'm just trying to figure out a way to address it first before someone jumps the gun. Be the mediator in all this. And with luck, they'd be so surprised by you they'd stop getting so worked up over Roa."

"That sounds like I'd be the scape goat in all this..."

"True. But don't worry, Ciel will be sharing that spotlight with you once we show up. It's either that, or we risk cutting all ties with Ciel's people, and that means she won't get to join our school anymore."

"-!" Yuuji's spun of his utensil slowed when he heard this, and he stared down into the batter thoughtfully.

"If the worst does happen though, I'll be the one taking the heat," Gojo assured with a smile. "It'll be fine anyway, since they can't even touch me. Hehe."

"You're way too carefree..." Yuuji said, though he was a little at ease at Gojo's words. As long as Gojo, Nanami, and Ciel were around, and everyone else helping out, there's still a chance to save this city.

"Au contraire..." Gojo stated with an almost mischievous tone, "We're working just as hard as the Church is to find our main dead apostle, all while having to look out for all other vampires in the area."

Not having the authority to kill Roa didn't mean they aren't allowed to find clues to his whereabouts, regardless of Mario's stinginess and Ciel's secrecy. "It's not like we can just ignore it now that it's right in front of us, and we can't be sure if all of us will be available to face it if there's any other emergencies that'll call me and Nanami-san away. Once that's made clear, we'll have our compromise, and in the meantime, we'll be entrusting you and Ciel to hold down the fort."

"Right," Yuuji asserted. He placed the bowl in front of himself and grabbed the mixed Matcha powder bag from the side, pouring it into the batter.

"...How are you doing, by the way?" Gojo approached the topic as he did a few times beforehand, his light-hearted attitude dulled. "Ever since Satsuki and Junpei, I mean."

Yuuji paused his mixing of the batter, green powder already mending with the flour.

"I'm sorry I wasn't around to help you guys with all that," Gojo said, "Feel up to talking about it now?"

"...I'm okay, sensei," Yuuji answered gently, holding a somber gaze. "Really. I am. And it's not your fault. I'm the one who screwed up. I've been doing that a lot lately, and every time I do, Ciel had to cover for me..."

The death of Nagi Yoshino. Failing to save Junpei and Satsuki. Mahito's escape. Letting Ciel take the blunt of Yuuji's every shortcomings. And that's not bringing up the fact that she took the fall for what really happened to all those people at the detention center. Just one Macha cake wouldn't be enough to make up for everything she's done for him, and how little he felt he deserved to stand so close next to her.

"-But I'll make up for my mistakes. Whatever it takes, I'll find Mahito and Roa."

And eating every single one of Sukuna's fingers. Then, and only then, would Yuuji be able to redeem himself, by taking Mahito and Sukuna to hell with him. Then would he be able to keep everybody safe. To make sure those monsters never lay a hand on Ciel, or anyone else, ever again.

Gojo heard the resolve in Yuuji's voice, reading the implication that this boy was willing to face death itself with his head held high, and lay it over the chopping block after all was said and done. It was the same sort of resolve Ciel had, to end her immortality, and follow after the boy she fell for, over past sins she carried with her as well.

Sigh... This really doesn't make things easy, especially with Ciel threatening to suggest turning all of Gojo's favorite sweets shops into curry if he so much as tell Yuuji her plan.

Kids these days really are too eager to give up on life like that. All the more reason for Gojo to fight against that, and change the outcome. He wanted to see a future for his students, and he's hellbent on getting that wedding invitation if it's the last thing he'll do. This is a big world. There's bound to be something out there that can help Yuuji...

"I'm a little worried about Ciel, though," Yuuji shifted the topic of concern onto the executor, referring to her of more importance than himself. "She was hard on herself with what happened with Satsuki."

Was she? That was an honest surprise for Gojo to hear. Even if the man can suspect that Ciel was secretly mourning and guilt-ridden, the fact that she would be that open to Yuuji was an impressive step for the girl.

"-I'm not sure if I got through to her," Yuuji continued. "She told me she was a killer too, so that I wouldn't have to feel bad over what I've done, but I don't want her to think she's a murderer because of what she had to do."

She's a Vampire Hunter, there was no reason for her to think she was a monster for wanting to save people.

"No. You just want to say that you're the only murderer between you two. Am I right?"

Yuuji flinched at his teacher's blunt statement. A little taken aback at being called out like that, though made no attempt to deny it.

It was evident to Gojo that Yuuji had been carrying this mindset ever since the detention center incident. The fact that the boy came back to life and greeted everyone cheerfully at first was a miracle all on its own. Gojo had a strong feeling that whatever Ciel did and said to him in his dying moments, it practically saved the boy's soul and most of his conscience.

Were it not for Ciel, the moment Yuuji had to take the life of Satsuki Yumizuka, it would have changed Yuuji irrevocably. Even the toughest stone can break if applied enough pressure to it.

"None of us are completely innocent. Jujutsu Sorcerers especially. I've had as much blood on my hands as other people I know do. It's a nice idea that we're the heroes in modern day society, but the fact of the matter is that our work is dirty and dangerous. You already had a firsthand experience to it, something that I was hoping to ease your way into, but there's no helping it now." Gojo was upfront about it as he held the knife over the cutting board, holding the tip of the blade as he looked into his reflection.

"We fight and we die alone. As long as we're alive, we're all bound to make mistakes. If you're willing to carry that guilt, then start by aiming all that negative thoughts and feelings into the next big thing you want to overcome - whether it's a curse, a human, or an objective, if you want to live without any regrets, never be held back by 'what ifs' or 'what could have been'. Focus on what you can do right now, and what you want to achieve next."

If you want to avoid what happened a second time, put all that energy into your next move to make sure it doesn't.

Yuuji took in his teacher's words, having heard of that familiar statement before, now open to the one who had his hands soaked in the blood of both innocents and monsters, all while he himself remained alive.

"It's the same road Ciel is taking," Gojo added as he started cutting into the strawberries. "And if you're ready to throw yourself into the race, who knows what you might end up finding at the end of the finish line?"

There was an instant image in Yuuji's head, of Ciel in her Jujutsu Sorcerer school uniform, smiling over her shoulder with her hands clasped behind her back as she ushered Yuuji to catch up.

It's that mental image alone that Yuuji was met with his answer, one of the many wishes he had that was spoken softly from his heart.

Yuuji's eyes softened with a mixture of affection and sorrow. "But... Is that really okay? For me to go for it?"

There's no way he could after everything he...

"It's not about whether it's okay or not, because by the end of the day, the world's unfair for everyone. Hell, we shamans have plenty of screws loose as it is, so we're hardly the best people to tell who's good and who's bad, and who deserves what. The bigger question is, how badly do you want it?"

Yuuji stared down at the cake mix in front of himself. This simple gift he decided to do on a whim. He figured he could just go with the flow, take it day by day. Enjoy the now and not think so much about anything else. That they can take their days together slow and steady, or fast and clumsy. Make every moment as good as they can be.

A slight smile reappeared on Yuuji as he started pouring the batter into the baking pan. He then pulled a toothpick from the side, dragging the tip across the top of the batter and drew a heart.

...I want to be with her to the end.

He made this promise already last night, but there was a clearer vision to it now. He didn't simply want to be with her. He wanted to stay with her, but...

I don't have the right to have that kind of dream.

He didn't have the right to live happily, or to live at all. Yet he can't help but to want. He can't help but to have a selfish wish. It almost made him feel sick with guilt just how pleasant the idea was despite his sins, and the thought of that smile of hers instantly made his sickness go away. That girl who deserved so much better.

I can't say I'll ever be able to make up for everything I've done, but...

If there's one thing he wanted to do, it's to help Elesia in absolutely everything. Even if that meant fighting to stay alive so that he could see her at the end of every nightmare and dream, no matter if it would be for the last time.

Gojo smirked at the sight of that relighted enthusiasm in Yuuji's expression, and the man resumed emptying the next bag of chocolate chips onto his hand and into his mouth rather than the bowl. You'll feel ashamed for thinking about it, but so long as you do, and keep moving one foot to the other...

Then maybe someday, Yuuji will see just how much he mattered to the people around him, enough for him to keep going. It's one thing to spare Yuuji from his execution date, it's another to convince him that he is worthy of life, to dream, and to have.

"..."

"..."

"...Sensei, do you think you can leave the kitchen for a while?" Yuuji wanted to make sure he has all the ingredients and sweets left for him to bake.

Nanami stood by the stained-glass windows, passing the time by examining their artwork and depictions of saints, histories' most notable figures of unwavering faith. It was like being in the hall of fame almost. He couldn't say nor view the merit of having one's picture, pain, and sacrifice stand frozen in time, though. It was a little too glorifying for him personally.

He was looking at a picture of a flag-bearer with a dove descending upon her when a door opened behind him. He turned to see Caren walking out, her hands folded to a close as she approached the man.

"Sister Ciel is currently resting downstairs. Once she fully recovers, she will meet with you here," Caren informed. There was a sense of gentle decisiveness to her words as if to seal off any foreseeable request to see Ciel at once, ensuring that no other would disturb the executor in her slumber.

Nanami hadn't planned to. Ciel could certainly use the rest after their long trip here, along with her late-night patrols. No matter her endurance, everyone deserved a break every once in a while. "I see. Is she being attended to?"

"I offered to check up on her, but she declined and insisted on me seeing to you instead." Caren made it sound like she dealt with a huffy patient with the way she phrased that. "I believe there were some tea packets in the kitchen. I can prepare some for you while you wait."

"No need. I don't require much right now," Nanami turned down the offer once more. He's had plenty during his train ride with Ciel. There's only so much citrus he could take in one day, otherwise he'd become a sugar addict like Gojo. "Are you the only one here, or was there someone who escorted you from your city?"

Caren's eyes narrowed ever so slightly, as if his words offended her, which was a familiar reaction Nanami often gets. The nun closed her eyes and turned her shoulder. "I arrived on my own. I have assistants who remain in Fuyuki to oversee the city while I am gone. Although it was the Church who sent me here, I'm more than capable of traveling by myself."

"That hardly makes it appropriate to let a child make the journey without supervision." Nanami was certain Ciel mentioned how extremely rare and useful Caren's ability was for the Church, so why would someone of that value be left on her own to commute outside her assigned city? Was she that strong that it didn't warrantee overseeing her?

"You do have a guardian, or at least a teacher, yes? Unless there wasn't anyone available to accompany you," he asked, remembering Ciel's mentioning of this nun to be the only one available and in the area. "Well, absences are hardly good excuses. It'll be time-consuming to personally guide you back to your city, but it can't be helped. Is your keeper waiting for you at your church?"

Caren stared at the adult. There was only silence from the girl, until she started to walk. The tip-tapping of her feet stopped when she was right in front of Nanami. She lowered her chin, her eyes directed at his shoes, and then she promptly kicked him at the side of his toes.

"…"

There was no weight to her attack. It clearly wasn't meant to hurt, but her feelings were heard.

"I've only spoken to you for a moment, and I've already lost my temper," Caren stated, as if it was something to commend. "Well, no matter. I will forgive you for not knowing any better. I am indeed just an ordinary nun, but my qualifications are enough reasons why I was entrusted to take up this task. Not everyone can handle the procedure of transferring what is an impure substance into the body, suppressing and cleansing all its ill effects. I'm sure as a fellow exorcist, you would understand."

The girl wordily defended herself and her skills in the face of her doubter. Nanami looked at the nun who a foot shorter than himself. "We're not exactly equal in terms of our occupations. You're still an undergraduate, aren't you?"

Caren delivered another weightless kick to Nanami's shin.

Ciel laid against the bed on her back, staring at the ceiling as if out of boredom. A blanket over her figure that covered everything below her collar bone. From her neck down to the rest of her body, she was wrapped in red cloth. Silk fabric like bloody bandages around her limbs and other places. She estimated that it would take less than an hour before she would be able to move and be on her way back to Tokyo.

Ciel lifted her arm to view Caren's work. These armaments that were once used by a holy figure in life, in other words, a saint, now coiled around her as if to fuse with her skin. She could feel the resurgence of her Greater Magic, her Idea Blood supply now refueled, and it left goosebumps in her wake. She never thought she would be relieved to have such ammunition again. Better to be armed than without bullets, even her black keys rely on her magical energy. Without it, she'll have to simply start thrashing her way through everything bare-handedly. At least Yuuji would not be alone in that department.

It was a bitter irony. For so long she hated what she knew, but the longer she lived in Tokyo, the more it was demanded of her to use it. Gojo may have been right in some regard, but even if she were to tap into her abilities a little more, it wouldn't exactly be appropriate for the setting, and she especially disliked the feeling of cursed energy. All that corroded elements of the human psyche, it was just uncomfortable, like sitting in a dark corner with nothing but her thoughts full of woes, anger, and the cold to keep her company.

She's completely stumped how any shaman could use it so handedly. She went so far as to willingly let it leak out of her body so that she would not have it channeled and remain in her system, letting it thin out rather than compile it. Of course, she put up several safety precautions so that such leaked cursed energy would not end up feeding into a new curse's existence, especially when she first arrived to Japan. Though she no longer had the option to hide it within her 'inner sanctum' that was the multitude of her other magical energies, unless she wanted to get her teeth knocked out by that blasted cat doll.

But in the midst of battle at that school, she was pushed so far into a corner and was running so dry in every single department within her very being, left with only her mind and will to push her, she actually prayed for a semblance to unleash if it meant saving however many lives she could that night.

"It feels as if this country is out to get me specifically." To mock her for her stance in everything.

Ciel sighed as she lowered her arm and craned her head to the side. She looked at the flat, black box made of cardboard that was sitting on the drawer next to her bed, right next to a tray of injection needles that were brought in by Caren - each vial now empty. She was quite surprised, relieved, and suspicious that Caren answered to her request rather easily, without questioning or even hesitation. After all, this was the only memento left from Caren's father.

Ciel offered to return it once her mission was completed, or until she could find a substitute so that she would not hold onto this for long, but to her surprise, Caren stated it was Ciel's to keep, sensing that she'll need it more.

Besides, why would I want something from that deadbeat? The angelic-looking nun crudely spoke. Caren's words were as sharp as her father's, the only resemblance Ciel could pinpoint between the exorcist and Kotomine. Judging by Caren's words, Ciel had a feeling there was this bottled resentment within the young girl that was prevalent even before Kirei's crimes were exposed. It was understandable why Caren didn't think very highly of her father, after being abandoned by the man, even if the exact reasoning for why he disowned her remained inexplicit to this day. Was his grievance over his wife too much for him to properly care for his daughter? Or was it something else?

Are you sure it's not a misunderstanding? Ciel had asked this to Caren. It wasn't a question that necessarily came out of leftfield. Perhaps the timing of it was inappropriate (who would want to humanize that monster?). Yet when she recalled her last interaction with Kirei, having mentioned his daughter out of polite inquiry, there was the slightest etch of 'emotion' in the man's eyes. Ciel couldn't make out what that emotion was. Guilt? Sorrow? Disappointment? Discomfort even? Whatever it was, it's evident that his feelings regarding Caren were not completely dismissive unlike most households who willingly gave away their flesh and blood for numerous reasons. Perhaps that was the start of Kirei's descent into madness? Although Ciel doubt it, since it was evident before how twisted that man's personality was.

It was also a little unbefitting for Ciel to pose this question. The topic of fathers being brought up might have softened her heart enough, she supposed. A tragic circumstance known between those who were only familiar with suffering. It must have been harrowing when all twenty of Sukuna's cursed fingers were unsealed at the same time. Just by being near one of them was enough to cause Caren to reportedly bleed, cut in several places as a response from her Masochistic Spiritualist Constitution. A supposed rare gift as dubbed by the church, although Ciel saw it more as a curse even worse than her own.

Oh my. Is la signora arco worried for me? Caren had responded, as if to hold back her chuckle. What a let down. I suppose not all Executors are just cold-hearted killers then. Ah. Please don't misunderstand. I'm not speaking to you as if you're my father. I'm only being mean-spirited. I tend to do that a lot.

Spreading love and forgiveness through tongue-lashing, she added. The exorcist was more peculiar than Ciel anticipated, but that's practically a guarantee in their line of work. Or maybe this was just a special trait all exorcists have?

I only find it regrettable that he would not answer to his sins now, Caren then proceeded to say. I do not know what my father's exact thoughts and feelings of me are, and I don't much care to know. I actually feel more sorry for the person who killed him. His path would have turned bleak afterwards. It's a shame I couldn't meet him. I find myself praying for his soul more often than my father's, or do you think I'm going too far?

Not necessarily. Ciel only hoped that such resentment would not end up eating away the person who carried it.

Speaking from experience? In that case, let me return the favor by praying over your soul, all while I play with your body for a while. Hehe.

Ciel wondered if there were any actually sane members of their Church. She felt sorry for the man who she had send this exorcist to. Well, he was a 'mature' adult, someone who had several years of dealing with Gojo. Even at the face of that odd nun, Ciel was almost certain that there was nothing to worry about.

Things escalated when Caren tried to headbutt Nanami, and so Nanami had to effectively put her into timeout. The man sat on the pew with his arms and legs crossed with Caren beside him, impassive and restrained by Nanami's white coat, looking as if she was in a straitjacket.

"You should be more careful," Nanami advised. "Those bandages could have loosened and reopen your wounds if you kept pushing yourself."

"So you noticed them? Did you look under my skirt while you were forcing yourself onto me?" There was a hint of vex in Caren's voice as she faced towards the chapel, as if too angry to even look at the man and was looking to God for strength. "I wouldn't have mind it if you were less rude about it."

Caren had been through worse, but to be put in this position, even she couldn't help but to sulk.

"Please stop speaking in an obscene manner. You have even less right to do so as a working nun." Nanami noticed the white bandage wrappings around Caren's hands when he and Ciel first met her. He could only deduce it to be the result of Caren's special abilities Ciel told him about. It was mentioned that the exorcist was 'busy' at a certain point, and Nanami wondered if it was busy in a sense that Caren was in the middle of work, or in the middle of recovery.

"I'm still a learning acolyte, so it seems like you'll have to get used to it," Caren expressed with an impassive sigh. "I really am amazed by Sister Ciel's tenacity if she was able to put up with the likes of you."

"Then you better get used to it," Nanami retorted, looking through his phone idly. "I'll overlook your imprudence since Ciel-san has heard of your achievements, hence having complete confidence in your expertise."

"Really?... That's a little troubling."

"How do you mean?" Nanami turned his head to look at the restrained girl.

There was subtle guilt in Caren's face, glancing to the side, "I'm just surprised. No, perhaps I should say that I'm honored. She's actually quite different from all the stories I've heard about members of the Burial Agency. I also might have teased her while I was helping her downstairs. I just couldn't help myself, even after knowing who she is. I suppose I should feel lucky that I still have my head on my shoulders."

Nanami thought for a moment before answering, "I doubt she'd be the sort of person to do that over any impression you might have towards her. Worst she'd do is scold you for your inappropriate behavior."

Not to say Ciel was a completely mature person herself (a little too serious but also impulsive when it came to others). When it's about herself, she wouldn't really bat that much of an eye towards whatever people have to say about her.

"Seeing how you're clearly familiar in that department, you might be right," Caren snipped back as she adjusted in her seating - it was actually quite snug, evident to her 'jailor's' kindness. "After speaking to her, I could tell she'd be the sort of person who wouldn't hold it against me. It's one of those things that makes us alike in a way..."

Caren might even go so far as to say that they could have been associates had they came across each other more often.

"...Could you clarify?" Nanami asked, but deep down, he had an idea of what Caren could be referring to.

"I'm not sure how much I should say, though I believe at this point, you must know enough based on your reaction alone. While I'm no executor, we both know how it is like to endure hardships through physical labor," Caren began in an almost distant voice, as if she wouldn't even want to burden Nanami of this truth. "I would happily take its intensity, though, as penance for my own shortcomings. I feel that Sister Ciel is the same way. That's what took me by surprised when I first met her. Duty, faith - none of those stuck out to me. It seems she is on her own path for salvation, a route which... no. I shouldn't say anymore than that."

She closed her eyes as if in a prayer. For Caren to have met Ciel only today, yet by the sound of it already got the gist of Ciel's character. The sort that must have paid attention to people's grief and flaws enough for her to catch it quickly, and hold it in her hands tenderly for God to bestow his Goodness and love, even if the nun would occasionally twist it in her grip out of habit.

"Wouldn't that imply you would accept any punishment because you believe to deserve it?" Nanami countered.

"Deserving and Accepting a burdened task are different. Whether you deserve it or not does not matter. If you have the body that is capable to endure those labors, it would feel wrong to not answer to its purpose." She spoke as if this life was the only life meant for her, and to think otherwise would be unthinkable. "You would push no matter how painful. That's the blessings of life - a way to know that you are alive. In short, there is meaning in it."

Those words of her instantly reminded Nanami of Yuuji, and he could see it clearly now why Ciel would be so drawn to that boy.

"That may be the case if you are unable to abstain or control the pain in your life," Nanami relented to that. "However, the difference is clear when one would willingly bring themselves that pain, rather than face it when it comes to them unwittingly. The way you gave up a moment ago seemed to tell me as much."

Nanami figured Caren went limp like a sack of potatoes just to throw him off balance, though it was useless with her weighing like a feather to him.

"You really do notice things," Caren was impressed by that, giving a thoughtful look as she opened her eyes. "Now I'm wondering if this is less of an 'assault' and more of a 'kidnapping'. Hmhm."

Nanami chose not to humor her by answering to that comment, and Caren resumed, "Perhaps there are people who would embrace pain as a form of self-inflicted punishment. I myself am guilty of that. If I happen to see someone else doing the same thing though, I'd slap them endlessly to see how much resolve they have to embrace it every day."

"I don't believe that would have been the best approach, considering that it'd be somewhat counterintuitive." To slap and bring pain in order to see them the blessings of life and its pain. Nanami could assure he wouldn't appreciate it if someone did that to him.

"Che palle. You really are such a downer," Caren pouted at the man beside her. "I'd slap you too if you would kindly remove this coat off of me."

"I've been told as much," Nanami answered, completely unsurprised. "And I'll do so in ten minutes. That'll leave you plenty of time to adjust your behavior. I've already had to deal with one ill-mannered child. My compliance and tolerance to the vulgarity of minors will not become a habit."

Things seemed to make sense for Caren as her eyes widened slightly, "Ahh... You must be speaking of Bestino. Oh that makes plenty of sense now..."

Nanami looked to the exorcist as she held a faint, yet fairly sly smile. "That little pushover has quite the authority, though I'm hardly impressed by someone who hides behind a facade, and I'm sure he'd string me up for saying such a thing. His grandfather's will is basically his own. You wonder if he even is his own person at this point. It must have been a surprise to him when he heard of executors having already arrived to Japan before him."

That statement took Nanami by surprise. "He wasn't aware of them beforehand?"

"No. None of us were. Executors are elite assassins that are beyond my capabilities, and even my Master's. If everyone heard where an executor was going to be before the task was done, that executor would have been very bad at their job. Their main asset is their elusiveness, along with their diplomatic immunity. I'm a nun in the legal sense, whereas executors are those who can commit any acts without repercussion, so long as it involves hunting heretics."

"Isn't there a limit? Even Executors have to tread carefully when it comes to seeking out targets outside their jurisdiction."

"That's where you're wrong. Or... Did Sister Ciel tell you that? Well, it's better that I don't pry into it. It's outside of my assignment anyhow, and like I said before, I very much prefer to keep my head where it is. You might think I'm joking, but it's no laughing matter. If there was ever an exorcist whose mental fortitude failed him so much that he becomes possessed by a demon, an executor would be sent to eliminate him. If there was someone who could threaten their mission, they would be disposed of. Not a treaty, territorial dispute, or even their own people would supersede this, so long as it is all done in the name of the Lord."

She gazed up at the wooden cross hanging on the wall behind the chapel. "The truth of the matter is that there is no person in the world - of any role or position, who is exempt from becoming a target of an executor. It's often why they are so feared by most people. Even if they were the Pope themselves, if he was possessed by a demon, he would be executed."

If that's the case... Nanami frowned as he looked down on his phone. Then when Ciel said she couldn't go against the word of the Cardinal, it wasn't necessarily out of orders...

But rather, it might just complicate things on her end if she were to directly do so. Yuuji mentioned before how Mario intercepted him and Ciel that one night and - no, even before then, Mario spoke as if he knew Ciel personally. Was it more likely that Ciel was familiar with Mario's grandfather, the Cardinal himself?

"It's why I was surprised by how friendly Sister Ciel was. She was distant, but not so cold or scary as I thought she'd be..." Caren's yellow eyes then shifted over to Nanami. "...Would it be alright if I ask you a question?"

Nanami sensed that something rather devious was at the end of this question. He nonetheless accepted it.

"What is your relationship with Executor Ciel?"

"We work as associates who happen to share the same assignment - to rid our city of all its threats, from both curses and vampires," Nanami was blunt and to the point, without any hesitation.

"...Is that it? Huh. I was hoping for something more exciting," the look on Caren's face was loud enough for Nanami to hear it boo at him. "Like say 'she's a dear friend, but secretly she's my lover'. That sort of thing..."

Before he'd give another admonishing word, a smile was worn on Caren, and though it looked innocent, there was no denying the eeriness behind it. Without Nanami knowing, she looked just like her father at this very moment.

"Either way, I'd say that explains how she's so friendly. It's the result of a blade being dulled by amicable allies."

In other words, he and his friends were making Ciel weak.

After some time, Ciel was fully recovered. She removed the holy relics from her body and redressed herself into her nun habit before walking out of the basement. She met with Nanami and Caren in front of the chapel once more. Nanami was adjusting his coat as Caren from the side looked as cordial as she was when they first met, her hands together in prayer. Ciel would question it, but it's already past midday and found it more important to catch their train. It was good enough to see them act like civil people anyway.

"Are you ready?" Nanami asked. Ciel nodded and turned to Caren.

"Thank you for your assistance, Exorcist Hortensia. Should the need of your work arise again..."

Caren nodded and bowed her head, "I will answer to it at once. You have my word."

After some parting words, Nanami and Ciel walked to the entrance.

"God be with you both."

Caren's gentle words of goodwill echoed across the nave as the duo left the church.

As soon as the door closed behind them, Caren raised her head, thinking of the previous response Nanami made before he at last freed her of his binding(coat).

I'm not one to suggest what method is best for one to accomplish their goals, Nanami had said. I do however know the ill-effects of obsessing over something. Work, money, the pressure to start a family. Eventually it will drain you no different than a vampire drinking every ounce of your blood. Perhaps you would call that dedication, but I see it as a hypnotic state where you're stripped of every fiber of your being, and all you become is a shell. Some may have a better mental fortitude, but for those who may risk losing even that part of themselves, I don't see it as becoming weak, but rather, they've been overdue for some normalcy in their life, regardless of the occupation they work in. Ciel-san having a heart that expresses a tenderness to her co-workers is ultimately what makes her stay true to herself.

Caren was a little bitter that he ended up getting the final word, it even felt like some of that was directed towards Caren herself. But to interject, or even agree, would somehow feel too invasive even for her twisted humor. It was a sentiment understood by that person, and she wondered how many others must felt the same way towards that Executor.

She raised her joined hands to her mouth, and whispered a soft prayer for the safety of the departed allies, "Be vigilant - both of you. I have a feeling there is more than one sinister presence who have their hands into the playing field."

She could feel it in her bones.

Author's Note:

Yuji: wakes up alone in bed. "...Pookie?"

Checks under the blanket, the pillow, and the bed.

Gasps! "Pookie is missing!"

Sukuna: "She just went to the bathroom you idiot."

The separation anxiety is strong with this one...

anyway, back to my notes. I was struggling with writing the interaction between Caren and Nanami, and for what I got, I think it turned out pretty good. I had to look into Caren's character by watching scenes of her in Fate/HA and oh boy she sure is Kirei's daughter alright. Let me know if I got her characterization right.

For those who have read Fate/Hollow Ataraxia, how do you guys think it'd be like if Caren were to join Jujutsu High? From what I readonline, Fuyuki City is somewhere near or is Kobe, Japan, so she'd probably be attending Kyoto JJH (the closest city to Kobe) which is a really interesting story concept all on its own.

I had the idea that if Ciel wasn't assigned to look after Yuuji, it would have been Caren, and then we get a different story of Caren joining Tokyo JJH and all the shenanigans of Caren being Caren. There wouldn't be romance I think and she'd be more of that weird little sister everyone looks out for. I feel that Yuuji's unique condition would subdue Sukuna's presence enough that it would not cause Caren that much pain, but that's just my way of trying to make her involvement work without her always being in constant agony from being around Yuuji (and just imagine the reaction that will cause).

However, as I'm writing this I now find myself more intrigued at the idea of Caren joining Kyoto, just for its unique twist, and there'd be more interesting interaction between her and the Kyoto students I think. I wouldn't know if I want to write it or not, but it's a fun idea to play around with.

I hope everyone had a nice Christmas! And have a good Happy New Year too!

Kabuto S. Inferno: I personally think Hellsing Ultimate is the best adaptation. I don't think Yuuji would like it that much and would prefer the milder version of it better, and even though Ciel can stomach any violent scenes in any show, I still don't see her liking Alucard in Ultimate any better than in the Original Hellsing (I also see her as more into Romantic-Comedy anyway). A lot of her opinions are imperfect and skewed as is but that's Ciel for you. Yuuji pointed out this misdirected vehemence, and even Ciel in her own route in the Remake admits her carelessness of inciting Arc's wrath, which took Shiki to call her out on it (jealousy really be doing something to people huh? I personally love how flawed Ciel is).

I'm laughing at the idea of Gojo and Sukuna being audibly offended by Ciel undermining their abilities. Granted, Arc is a BEAST even after Shiki cuts her to pieces. Letting Arc drink even a little bit of blood would get her to curb-stomp plenty of her opponents (Remake Arc, I'm looking at you. Stealing hearts in-game and out I see). It also comes down to situational circumstances, like when Roa killed a weakened Arc after she stretched her power to its limit, and then you get Ciel who tried to do the same only to get bitch-slapped by Luminous(Remake). It's just funny how many L's Ciel takes in the series XD.

In any case, there's always plenty of underhanded tricks Sukuna and Gojo can try to pull. Shamans rarely fight fair as it is. A good start is by listening to Ciel's lectures about the Nasuverse, and for someone like Sukuna to see how he can use that to his advantage the next time he gets free *wink* *wink*

Guest: And I love you! Main reason for not saving those two in this fic despite my internal debate is because I want there to be lots of angst/comfort, and you can't have comfort without angst. And after all the shit both Yuuji and Ciel have been through in canon, they could use a LOT of cuddling. Them flirting so much is them coping and helping each other through it all. Heck, my main drive for having this be my most written story out of the rest is due to wanting to write more moments between these two (even if I'm still learning how to write romance). I'm glad you're attached to the characters tho! Yippee!