The blizzard that raged through the long Siberian night was worsening by the minute. The wind howled in anger and frustration, the snow crashed against the window panes as if trying to bring the whole building down. But Camus couldn't care any less, his attention was concentrated in the heated caress and kisses Milo spread through his naked body.
The Scorpio had just ridden them of the last pieces of cloths keeping them apart, and was focused on making the Aquarius shiver in delight under him. With one hand he massaged his lover's balls while his mouth sucked and licked at his hardened manhood. A gentle squeeze, a playful nibbling, a slow lick up and down. Those mischievous lips closed around the top, moving slowly down, applying just enough pressure to make Camus moan and thrust forward while playing with the blond curls of his lover's head. Milo looked up at him with a devilish grin, only to move up to kiss him, and slide into his tight heat. The French arched his back in pleasure but also in a bit of pain since the Greek did not quite prepared him. But the initial discomfort soon passed
Ah, Milo… He began a most enjoyable pace as he stroke Camus' long hair and nibbled at his neck. The French wanted to hug him, cling to him, return the caress and attention, but somehow he could not move. The Helene had him pinned down.
– Milo…?
He was heavy, he was a heavy weight on top of Camus, trapping him down against the mattress. The Aquarius tried to push the Scorpio back, to call him, to tell him about his lack of air and the weird sting on his chest, but he couldn't do either thing. As the hand on his neck was joined by its partner and began applying too much pressure, Camus grabbed them and tried to set himself free, annoyance suddenly turning to desperation. He looked up to the window, the snow was about to completely cover the panes, muting the storm outside and leaving them in darkness. The lack of air became a burning sensation. Once more he tried to struggle but it was futile. He looked into the eyes of the man on top of him.
– Why have you betrayed us? – Said the Helene. Then the French realized they were in Athena's hall, wearing their sacred cloths… No, he was wearing that cold nefarious surplice. – Why have you betrayed us? – Behind Milo stood some children. Camus recognized them right away. Hyoga, Isaac, Surt and Simone. They were all clinging to two older figures who hugged them protectively. Camus' parents. And there were two kids more, but... – Why have you betrayed us?
He could not answer, he could not explain or apologize. He felt his chest about to burst in cold blue flames and, as the world blurred to black, Milo's grip was replaced by Mino's whip. It yanked Camus into a pool of cold water at the bottom of a sort of well. He tried to swim out but the surface had frozen, becoming a mirror in which he could see himself, his red eyes, his red hair. Red as the innocent blood he bathed in through his sorrowful life. He stopped struggling before such horror. The sheer cold of the ninth hell clung to him, bit at him, tore at his flesh with iced blades, but allowed him to resurface all so he could take in the frozen air of the traitor's prison. Tears flowed from his eyes but they turned to icicle needles cutting through his face, turning red and then black.
– Hades is such a generous god. – Said Minos standing in the ice entrapping him – He had granted a follower of his most hated enemy his deepest desire – He looked down to Camus in a mocking gesture – This is the reward to a life devoted not to feel. Congratulations, Aquarius Camus. – He stepped on the saint's face – The ice of the hell of traitors had left numb both your body and your soul. You, who always sought to rid yourself of petty emotions and sentimentality, you finally can't feel a thing anymore. Nor pain, nor pleasure, nor happiness, nor love… nothing, nothing you have – And under the surreal light from Mino's surplice, the ice shone red, red as the eyes and hair of a traitor. – because nothing you are.
Camus rolled off his bed and hit his head real bad. The tears he had shed in his sleep along with the sweat drops covering his body were frozen over by his fright and stung at his skin like needles. He looked around and found his dorm frozen over. He shivered from cold and fear, yet he managed to dispel the ice. He crawled to the window and struggled to stand up to open it. The light of the rising sun and the heat from its rays was too much and it hurt his eyes and skin. He quickly took refuge behind the wall while the sun warmed up the place. But his heart still beat like crazy in his chest and he couldn't stop shaking. He couldn't move even when he heard Hyoga began moving stuff around in his dorm, disappear into the bathroom and go into the kitchen.
As the temperature in his room normalized, he finally managed to stand up and sit in the bed, gladly bathing in the warm of the sun. Only then he regained some strength and began breathing normally.
– Good morning! – called Hyoga knocking at the door – Sorry to disrupt but it is late already. Would you like some coffee?
Of course it was late. Normally Camus would be finishing breakfast by the time Hyoga decided to get out of bed and would be on his way for his daily duties while the teen entered the bathroom for a shower.
– Yes, please – Camus found his voice reliving – You don't need to wait for me
– Ok!
Hyoga was starting to worry. Camus waking up later than him was by no means normal and it kept happening lately. Maybe his work at the library had become too demanding, he had been staying late there more frequently. Hyoga considered offering some help if that was the case. But if it was something else he doubted Camus would like to get him involved. Maybe he should tell… who? Although Hyoga had great respect for Milo, the Scorpio saint didn't struck him like the most mature person around. Kanon was out of the question because, despite the others sort of looked up to him, he didn't wanted to give the Gemini any weapon to tease or mock Camus further, not that he really believed he'll dare do anything of the sort but just in case. Shura? The Cygnus still couldn't figure out that stoic man, and Saga was too busy all the time…
Camus had finally stood up from his bed and moved to the kitchen. He wasn't sure whether Hyoga had left or not, but by the look of the pot of coffee and the nearby mug, he would have probably be on his way already. The Aquarius approached the counter and poured himself some of the dark liquid still with a trembling hand. He then grabbed the mug with both hands and leaned on the counter, the rich sent and the warm contact were soothing…
Nightmares had been haunting Camus every now and then since they were brought back to life. At times he would dream of being a kid left alone in the Siberian mountains. Other times he would dream about Hyoga and Isaac fighting and eventually killing each other. A massive white bear would rip apart a small blond child. A mighty blizzard would bury alive a green–haired boy. He would cause the sinking of a large ship, dragging all passengers to the frozen heavy darkness. At times Hyoga would be the only passenger of the ship he send to the bottom of the sea. He would watch how both his students went into the frozen waters by their own free will only to be snatch away either by a real kraken or by blue corpses in gowns of crystal flowers. Another recurrent dream would be holding in his arms a little corpse that could be either Hyoga, Isaac, Surt or Simone; some other times he himself would bloody murder them, adult versions of them or his friends Milo and Shura. He once dreamed all golden saints turned on him and killed him as punishment for his crimes. He had also dreamed either Saga, Milo or Shura killed him. But every nightmare always ended the same, with him trapped in the ice and Minos standing somewhere around him, making fun of him. His laugh still echoed in his head, reaching to him from the world of dreams…
– No! – Camus barely managed to control himself before unleashing another death frost on Shura and Hyoga, who had approached him without him noticing.
– Snap out of it – Said Shura holding firmly the wrist that rose to attack him. Camus blinked as if he had just woke up. Then he noticed both him and Hyoga were wearing Capricorn and Aquarius cloths respectively. Why? The French looked around and found frost around him. If they hadn't been wearing the gold cloths, he might have hurt them.
– Are you both ok?
– Yes, we are fine – Answered Hyoga and Camus turned away. Shura turned to Hyoga as if to tell him he would handle it from there, the boy got the message – I'll be on my way… – Hesitantly, Hyoga left the place, putting away Aquarius in his way down the hall. Well, It seemed Shura would handle it…
– Whatever it is you just agreed too, you better don't do it.
– What do you mean? – Asked Camus looking up to him
– I just saw you nodding to the coffee like you had agreed to something. – Camus opened his eyes wide – It's not worth it.
– How do you know? – Camus meant how it was that Shura knew he had agreed to something
– Statistics. – but Shura though he meant why it wasn't worth it – Important decisions taken on ill moods tend to make things worse. You should know it by now. Besides, coffee is to drink not to make deals with.
Camus obviously wasn't dealing with his drink. He was just thinking looking at it. He did find the joke funny despite Shura's stoicism, but he was in no mood to even smile. – I was thinking I should leave. – Camus looked down at the mug he still held in his hand, it had frozen. – I'm not contributing anything in here – He looked at some books in the table, he had been studying them for weeks now without much progress.
– And would that change if you go away?
– No, but…
– Then stay.
– I'm like a bomb waiting to go off. – He unfroze his coffee – I think I'm really losing it and I don't want to cause any more troubles. Hyoga is old enough and a good boy, strong and brave. I'm sure he can manage without me – Truly seeing Hyoga wearing Aquarius added to Camus' uneasiness
– Of course he will. – Said Shura in his usual matter–of–factly way. Camus turned to him, blinking in surprise – All of us will certainly manage without you. But that does not mean it's okay, it'd be easier or that we'd like it. Camus? Why have you turn so insecure lately?
– Maybe because of the foul consequences of my latest decisions – He answered sarcastic
– Which ones? Look around and point at one.
– Let's go to Asgard and I'll show them to you
– People die at wars, Camus. Not all of the casualties are on you. A lot of people had already died when we arrived. And even if you didn't helped, there were 11 of us there. Let's go to Asgard and I'll show you all 12 of us saved way more people than we lost. If you weren't worth being here you wouldn't be here. You must let go of your past mistakes or you will truly turn insane
– I cannot Shura. Most times when I close my eyes I see myself back at the ninth hell and no matter what I do, I don't think I can shake off such fate.
– Well, certainly ditching your post won't cut it. Even tho, it is not certain that would be our fate
– But the judges…
– Camus – Shura placed a hand on his friend shoulder – The judges are Hades' minions and we are at war with him. We fell prisoners, we were tortured and forced into helping the enemy. Hades, the Nyxes and their legions hate Athena and everything she stands for, that includes us. That is why you cannot thrust anything you got from them, it was only a deceit to break us.
– And break us they did.
– Yet we managed to double cross them and defeat them. We might never get to rest in Elyssium no matter what we do, but Hades won't have us, Athena won't leave us at his mercy. – Camus looked down again considering the truth in Shura's words. After a brief silence, the Spaniard continued – I'm not in the mood to train today. Let's skip. – And turned to the door as inviting the French to follow him
– Why? What happened?
– Huh? A little bit of everything. What? Did you forgot I was sent to the ninth hell too? It's been a particularly hard month dealing with this stuff…
Camus immediately though of Shura getting wasted and felt ashamed. – Maybe it's because the anniversary is close…
– Yeah, you might be right…
"Happy birthday, little lamb."
Down at Aries, Mu went to the kitchen to make breakfast. He had barely taken a few things to the counter, when a pair of strong arms wrapped themselves on his waist and pulled him from behind into a warm embrace. He didn't resisted. Kanon rested his chin on the Aries shoulder, and he leaned against the Gemini's chest.
The Lemurian chuckled when the Helene kissed his neck, and his hands slid into his lover's clothes.
– Didn't you get enough? – He said when he felt the older man's fingers ghosting over his skin, up his chest
– Of you? – Kanon breath in Mu's scent – No way – He then held him tight as one of his hands reached down between his lover's legs – You sure everyone had already passed through Aries? – He whispered while nibbling at the younger man's ear lobe
– Yes – Mu leaned against his lover as expert fingers closed around his manhood – Kanon…
– Hn? – He began stroking the younger man.
– You don't need to… tease me like this…
– Oh, this one time is not my intention to just tease you.
– Eh? – Kanon pushed Mu against the counter and rubbed himself against his lover to show him how hard he was. – Kanon! – Mu moaned when he felt his lover put something on him. – What is that? – Some kind of ring? It was soft and tight…
– You don't need to know, just enjoy. – He began moving it back and forth on Mu's shaft.
– That again… – Kanon rolled it all the way to the base and left it there as he stroked the head with his thumb and kept applying intermittent pressure to his cock. – You don't tell me a lot of stuff, you know?
– I do. Don't you trust me?
– I do.
– Then don't ask – Kanon whispered his request on Mu's ear. He growled softly and tried to push Kanon back, but he kept him in place, jerking at his manhood and giving teasing squeezes to his balls. The Aries moaned delighted, but still tried to push the Gemini back, not with real conviction. The Hellene pushed the Lemurian forward, so he ended supporting his weigh with his elbows on the counter.
– Kanon… – But he just lowered their pants – Don't! someone's coming
– You said everyone had already gone through
– I–It's Deathmask and Dokko… – They had just arrived at Aries back door
– Angelo and Dokko. so?
– They'll hear us!
– Then we better don't make noise
– Let me go! – Whispered Mu before Kanon put a hand on his mouth and kept stimulating him.
Mu gave up. As much as he knew he should get the Gemini off himself, he didn't really wanted and so he let him work him up and hoped Dokko didn't want to greet him. The Aries cursed mentally when he noticed indeed the Libra turned to the private chambers followed by the Cancer. Obviously the Hellene would be able to hide no problem, but the Lemurian couldn't quite concentrate on hiding his cosmos from them and fool them into thinking he wasn't around. So again he tried to warn the other man but only got a mischievous look from him. He struggled a little, but… oh, heck. Mu teleported them both to the secret vault in the workshop, and just as Kanon intended, the younger man came hard in his hand.
– Ok, I was wondering how you would save the situation, and this is certainly funnier than I expected. – Said Kanon – And convenient too.
– You are out of your mind! – Mu tried to sound angry, but failed
– Of course I am – He held the younger man against himself and kissed his neck while taking off him the… ring? – You know it is horrible in there. – Mu chuckled by Kanon's dark humor and tried to straighten himself, but the older man pushed him forward again – Now it is my turn
– No way! – Said Mu nervously when he felt Kanon pressing against him – We don't have lu… – but he interrupted himselft when he felt Kanon's fingers sliding into him no problem – He turned to his lover – What are you…? – He only got a mischievous grin as an answer to his unfinished question. Mu opened his eyes wide in realization – Kanon!
– What is it? – He answered with the most innocent expression in his face. Mu growled again and turned away, hiding his embarrassment behind the lavender curtain of his hair. Kanon placed a hand on his cheek and made him turn to him. – Do not hide from me… – And kissed him as he began moving in and out – Please, never hide from me.
That 'please' had a heavy load the Lemurian could not quite figure out. He took firm hold of the shelves to keep his balance while Kanon finished, but soon he learned the Helene was in no hurry. He had learned from Mu himself how to put his hands work as so he massaged his lover's back and shoulders after getting rid of their shirts.
Mu could not remain indifferent, as his shaft stirred back to life he began moving back and forth, demanding a faster pace from Kanon, and of course the older man complied.
– Such eagerness… – Whispered Kanon in Mu's ear
– Hn… can't you keep up? – Teased the younger man. The Gemini growled and held the Aries firmly on place. – Ah, Kanon!
– What is it? – He stopped
– No! don't! – Mu turned to him frowning
– Don't what? – He said with a grin
– Finish what you start!– He turned around embarrassed to Kanon's amusement
– Your wishes are my commands – He hugged his lover and reassumed his thrusts – Like this is ok?
– … harder … – Despite his words, Mu still tried to hide away his embarrassment
Kanon blinked surprised then purred at his ear – Anything you want, just say it… – And he complied
– You… I want you… Kanon!
– Mu…
They both came with a growl.
After such powerful blast, they both remained still for a moment.
Yet as both of them regained their breath, Mu saw his seed dripping from the lower shelf... a shelf to hold the precious minerals for the cloths repairs, of the hidden vault designed to store and keep safe everything related to such sacred job.
The rebellious half of Mu felt accomplished while the responsible side of him was starting to panic. But it all was cut short when Kanon used his shirt to clean all evidence of what happened. That done, the smith took them both to his dorm.
Yet, as Kanon discarded their cloths and turned to the shower, it was impossible for him not to notice Mu's uneasiness. So he approached him concerned
– Mu? – but he got no answer. He was looking at his bed – Little lamb, don't be mad at me…
– Hn? – He didn't seem to hear him
– Was it too much? – So Kanon sat in front of him
– A bit…
– I'm sorry
– Don't be. – Said Mu in a neutral tone – I could have taken us out of there at any point. I just didn't… I can't believe the kind of things I do when you are around.
Kanon felt guilty
– Should I leave?
Mu couldn't bear Kanon's concerned expression. He rested his knee in the mattress between his lover's, and pushed him back by the shoulders.
– Don't… – As Mu kissed him and laid on top of him, Kanon hugged him dearly – I don't recall ever coming two times in a single go… – Mu whispered, hiding his face on the curve of Kanon's neck. Oh, the effort the Gemini had to do not to brag or joke about that – And you used my… as…
– And we almost got caught – Kanon couldn't help it. But Mu tensing up killed his devilish grin. – Mu… Mu, look at me… – Mu reluctantly made eye contact – If I ever do anything you don't feel comfortable with, feel free to stop me. Remember I can't read your mind. I won't get mad or anything. It won't please me if it doesn't please you.
Mu nodded and relaxed.
– You pleased me perhaps too much, that's the issue. – Mu kissed him, then rested his head on his lover's shoulder. "I'm getting so attached to you, I'm getting scared…", Mu though to himself – Let's go get that bath
Mu stood up, helping Kanon to his feet, and moving towards the bathroom
– What's on your schedule for today?
– I'm supposed to go train in the fields and check on Kiki's training later
– Mmm… won't you like to do something else?
– Like what? – Mu turned the faucets
– Dunno, stroll around.
– Why's that? – He turned to his lover.
Kanon sighed, watching Mu get in the shower
– Tomorrow it is your birthday and your friends will be all buzzing around you the whole day. – Kanon entered the stream
– You sound jealous – Mu suddenly felt flattered
– Hmp… – Kanon wouldn't verbally admit such a thing – So?
– Alright, I'll spend today with you
"Happy birthday, little lamb"
But Mu was not taking a bath with Kanon. He was staring blankly out of the window of his kitchen. It was not the day before his birthday, that was more than a month ago. And he hadn't seen the love of his life for the longest and most tortuous while.
Why would he? Didn't Mu himself told Kanon he didn't wanted anything with him anymore? The Gemini told him several times before that if he ever wanted something he just had to ask for it, implying he would do his best to comply. And what did he asked for? What was the sole thing he asked for? To leave. To leave him the hell alone. And leave he did. The Helene was a man of his word. The Lemurian got exactly what he asked for.
"Happy birthday, little lamb"
Not one word, not a single glance, not even that white noise he felt around him at the beginning. Nothing. Not a week went by when the Aries regretted what he had done. And regretted it even more when he tried to locate his former lover to no avail. There was no way. Not even his friends could reach him unless he wanted it so. And he didn't want it so. Mu even tried to felt the Gemini's cosmos, but it was always so far away, then it would disappear, to reappear somewhere else that required him going through the first temple. He hid his presence to go through…
"Happy birthday, little lamb"
It was when Mu finally began to felt his cosmos along others that the exact opposite began happening. Whenever Mu felt Kanon too close, like within hearing radius, it would be the Aries the one to flee away. and not just flee and hide behind a nearby door, no. he escaped all the way to Jamir, no less, and didn't come back for hours. He felt so guilty for chasing him away, he could not face him anymore.
Until just the day before, when Kanon went through Aries without hiding, but Mu completely lacked the courage to go meet him. And so, each broke down to pieces in their dorms.
"Happy birthday, little lamb"
Those words echoing in his memories hurt like nothing he had felt before. Not even Fafner's torture felt so bad, mostly because it didn't lasted but a few hours or less and after a rest he was up and going. But this dull pain in his chest had lasted the same for weeks now and it was distracting and exhausting. It made his food tasteless, his body heavy and any noise annoying.
"Kanon abstinence syndrome" thought Mu ironically, while pinching the bridge of his nose and opening the faucet of the nearby sink to wash his face. Again.
Shaka frowned when he saw with his open eyes Mu rinsing his face straight in the kitchen sink and remain with his face in the stream for a while. Kiki remained silent next to his mentor's friend. Aldebaran and Aioria exchanged looks in the living room. When the tallest man stepped forward, whatever he was about to said died in his throat by seeing their friend clean his face and turn the faucet. They all though of saying something but words escaped them all. But Mu didn't even acknowledged their presence. He passed by them in his way out as if they weren't even there, same with Shion who was about to knock on the door.
The Pope looked at the saints inside, who couldn't offer any explanation, and so he decided to follow his former apprentice. The Aries went out of his temple by the front, but instead of walking down the stairs, he turned towards the workshop. Once in front of the door, he took the handle as to going in, but he only sighed and kept going straight, down the uneven way of the cliff. He soon reached a lookout where he could see the valley below. Shion tensed up, why had Mu gone there? But he relaxed when he saw the younger man taking a Padmasana pose just like Shaka did, as if he were about to meditate.
Mu looked down at the valley, the hills around it, the clear sky and the fluffy clouds. He felt the wind blowing around him and he could even hear some birds chirping in the rocks below. But all too quickly his mind began drifting away.
"I mean what I said, little lamb. I do love you"
– You are going to get sunburn if you stay in here like this – Said Shion softly as he sat down next to him. Mu took a while to answer
– I don't recall a happier birthday than the one that just went by
– Was it because of Kanon?
Mu nodded. – He fixed me breakfast, we lazed around a bit, then we went fishing to the creek. We got lunch there, then we walked and ended up at the beach by nightfall. We saw a cruise shooting some fireworks so… he used his illusions to set a fireworks show for me…
– When did that happened? – Shion was confused since on the very date they celebrated Mu's birthday at the dining hall for lunch, and his friends arranged dinner at Leo.
– The day before… he stayed with me to wish me happy birthday at midnight. I guess he wanted to be the first one.
Shion was surprised. It never occurred to him Kanon could be so thoughtful.
– Dokko told me you had a mean fight. – Mu sighed. – Why?
– It wasn't right. None of what we did… – He whispered
– And this is? – Said Shion taking Mu's bangs behind his ear – You acting like a zombie and he going missing only to reappear wasted on cheap drinks?
– He did?
– He didn't even blinked when Saga began his claims. And he picked a fight with Shura. – Mu blinked in disbelief – Eventually his friend managed to set him right somehow, but it was not an easy task.
– Kanon has great respect for Shura, he wouldn't just pick a fight with him…
– Things are far from right around here. I begin to think "right" is a luxury. There's no need to make it harder to achieve, Mu. If being with Kanon can steer things for you in the right direction, then…
– It was me who chased him away, he won't trust me anymore, so… – Mu's eyes filled up with tears – Even if I try to go get him… I doubt…
– Don't doubt. – Shion put a hand on his shoulder – Don't be like Saga. Don't doubt Kanon, Mu. I tried to reach for him for the longest time. But you managed it in less than a year. That is an amazing accomplishment, it can't go away so easily. You are really important to Kanon, nothing can change that now. If you need time to sort things out, if you want to wait for some improvement, it is ok. But take into account you don't have forever to wait, conditions might never improve. And you'll have to take a decision. The longest you take, the more dangerous and hard it'll become. Think about that.
Camus and Shura decided to go to town, for a change. They only made a stop in the library to return the books the Aquarius had borrowed. Once in the plaza, they found Aldebaran and Aioria in their free day. They joined them for a while but at noon Camus returned to the library. He wasn't used to hang around in such crowded places so he found the peacefulness of the library comforting, but he soon got bored. Since he was too distracted to continue his research, he decided to just help around like he would normally do.
Then he heard some noises coming from the unclassified section and he went there. As he expected, he found Kanon going through some files.
– So this is where you have been hiding all this time? – Asked Camus teasingly, trying to dissimulate his own bad mood
– Hn… – Well, it wasn't going to work, so Camus decided not to try to joke around. – I left some other stuff for you over there… – Kanon vaguely pointed at some documents in the nearby shelf, but when Camus didn't moved up to check them, the Gemini asked – What is going on?
– I should be at the gym with Shura… – The Aquarius hesitated to answer – I haven't concluded the task Saga assigned me… and there's a lot of work to do in here – He added looking around
Kanon was sitting in the floor, between piles of books and papers that had little to do with Athena and her affairs.
– Rejoicing in the fine arts of procrastination?
– I attacked Hyoga and Shura at Aquarius… – Camus reply came after a weird silence
Kanon turned to him, putting down the files he had been reading
– What happened?
– I overslept. – He hurried to answer looking away – I suppose the guys wanted to check on me, but I mistook them for someone else…
Obviously there was much more to the situation than that or Camus wouldn't be as concerned as to be talking to Kanon about it. He pushed some stuff away so Camus sat next to him.
– Why did you overslept?
– I haven't been sleeping properly – Camus tried and failed to sound casual
– Why?
– I was having nightmares… – It took an effort to admit to such a thing
– How long have you been having nightmares?
– … since we came back … – He looked away ashamed to admit something like that
– Are they frequent?
By this point Camus hesitated to nod.
– Are Hyoga and Shura okay? – Asked Kanon after a brief consideration
– Yes
– Who do you mistake them for?
– … hades specters…
Kanon frowned really concerned as he saw Camus trying to hide behind his forelocks
– And what did you do exactly?
– I–I was about to freeze them with my cold air, I had already frozen my room and most of the kitchen…
– Did you stopped on time or why didn't you harm them? – The younger man nodded, Kanon looked away wondering, he then turned to his friend – Camus, are you aware every time you are upset your cosmos gets out of control and causes what we know as deadly frost wave?
– You named it? – He wasn't aware that anything of the sort existed so of course it was surprising to learn his friends went as far as to put it a name like it was technique. – When you piss me off I do intentionally lower the temperature as a warning and preparing an attack, but today it happened without me realizing it. if they hadn't been wearing the gold cloths, they would have been stuck in the ice… at least…
– If Hyoga and Shura are okay, then that was not IT, but it was surely close. – Camus turned to Kanon – The deadly frost wave is a sudden burst of cosmos you release that causes frost to cover everything. But when something touches said frost, it causes immediate frostbite. It stings like hell and stopping the chain reaction is quite difficult.
– The scar in your leg! Did I do that to you?
– You don't even remember? You had just acquired the golden cloth, we were at the beach then
– I do remember you took us there, but I don't recall hurting you like that
– There's been other events, like back at the day of the first meeting I attended, when I pissed you off about your hair, you did it again in the main hall – Camus blinked concerned – We were this close to be a silver saint less… Camus, you should really drop the tough guy act and talk to Shion. It might be sign of post traumatic stress from whatever happened to you back when you were a kid and it would only worsen if you keep bottling it up. One of these days you won't be able to stop it, no matter how hard you try.
– It's a liability…
Kanon frowned
– To be honest, in your current state you'll be easy prey for foes like Lymnades Kaza or Phoenix Ikki, but why would you care about that right now? Care about yourself a little more
– Kanon, why do you care about us so much?
– Huh?
– You were always looking out for Shura, Milo and me.
– I never had anyone to look out for me when I was your age. Shion tried, but I didn't trust him. I still don't. and I trusted Saga even less. Considering where you ended up in, I think I was right.
– I'm not particularly fond of him, but I must say I don't consider him being especially mean or careless. He was more like an authority figure and roll model. But you were more like a big brother…
– You have no idea how disturbing I find each time anyone says how good person he was. – Kanon rubbed his temple
– Was he really that bad to you? – Kanon shook his head not in the mood to talk about that. Camus shrugged in resignation and changed to another related topic he was curious about – Now may I know why are you back to square one?
– What do you mean?
– When you first arrived you acted like you were in enemy territory, all weary and sneaking around. After all that's happened, I found it natural. But as time passed you seemed more relaxed, more at ease. I guess you grew used to us and to be here. And then, all of a sudden, here we have you walking on eggshells again. Does it has anything to do with your fight with Mu? – Kanon flinched – What was it about?
– Nothing much. He doesn't wants to have anything to do with me until Saga and I are at peace.
– I had no idea you liked him that much…
Kanon side glanced him
– No wonder, I had no idea… I loved him that much…
– Kanon…
– And what task did Saga assigned you that you haven't completed yet?
Camus explained Kanon how Saga had assigned him and a few other saints to investigate how to interpret a few documents they had about the location of some minerals. The French was certain said minerals were the ones used to repair the cloths, which made him wonder if this was a regular situation of gathering supplies or if they were in the face of shortage, given how the smiths got a lot of work to do right after the latest battles.
Kanon avoided elaborating on the shortage status and instead wondered about the documents. They weren't quite the regular kind of map, nobody knew what they were. But given Camus description, they might be some sort of astronomical charts. And so the Hellene offered his help on the matter since, as Poseidon's navigator, he had great expertise at figuring out such things and even writing them himself. Camus hesitated to accept but his friend convinced him that asking around was a valid part of investigating. So they agreed to meet at Aquarius by five.
So with that Camus left for the gym and Kanon went out to get himself some food. But the French was still so restless, he could not properly focus in his regular routine. So he decided to practice in the bars. Most people used them only for pullups even when that wasn't their purpose, but Camus was one of the few who used them properly and usually it was quite a sight to see. As soon as he stepped under them, almost everyone else in the gym turned their attention to him. But he wasn't feeling too creative. He went up only for the work out and to clear his mind, not to show off. After a good workout and a long shower, he returned to the library to pick some stuff he had been using in his investigation, and then turned to the temples road. He didn't noticed how far had he gone until he arrived at Virgo. He sighed exhausted. Since when it was such a big effort to go up?
The stillness of the Virgo temple was close to a void. As he approached the altar, he noticed some lotus flowers in small bowls. Shaka normally would bring to mind such flowers but, thinking about it, Camus had never actually seen any around him. Who and when brought them? Shaka wouldn't bother, but maybe Shun would. Yet, what for? Did Shaka even liked them? Camus sighed again. He was overthinking stuff that had no point thinking about. He only hoped someone changed their water before they grew mosquitoes or something…
The French looked to the sun outside. He was supposed to meet Kanon at his temple but it was still early, he had time to spare. It wouldn't hurt to stop to rest and wait for Kanon there. Although, he wouldn't like to disturb Shaka from his meditation, the Aquarius could feel his cosmos coming from the gardens, it would be better if he stayed where he was.
The stillness of the Virgo temple was contagious. He looked at the flowers, the orderly arrangement of the petals was hypnotic. Reminded him of how the ice crystals formed always an orderly shape when looked up close.
He stared at the flowers slowly turn to icicles in small frozen ponds. Ice and snow covered it all around him, they darkened the ceiling and the sky so there was no way to tell them apart, and the light dimmed almost to darkness. The icy wind around him crept to his body, the frozen bite of bitter tears slashed at his face and blinded him...
– Camus, – Such familiar voice in the middle of nowhere startled the child – What are you doing here?
– There's been an accident... – Said the boy with trembling voice and without rising his head – I was careless and... Surt's sister is dead because of me... Simone…
– ... So I heard. But that doesn't answer my question
– I can't go back...
– That's true but that doesn't mean you can leave. Training is not over yet
– ... But I'm a murderer!
– And how does crying over your parents tombs solves anything? – The little boy looked around. There really was not the slightest hint of the plane that had crashed there a few years ago, leaving him an orphan. He had just ran away from the village he lived in with the man who saved him back then and later sent him to the Sanctuary. – Accidents happen, Camus. It is a shame but, now that it is done, running away and hiding, or crying your eyes out won't fix anything. Nothing would. Such absurd sentimentality would only drain your strength and cloud your judgement. It was also my fault that this happened, I thought you were ready for higher challenges when clearly you are not. Soon you'll go back to Greece for the Aquarius cloth, there's still much to do and not enough time. Let's go...
The boy stood up on his own and followed his mentor through the blizzard. A blizzard that left him numb all over.
Next thing he knew, Camus was staring into deeply concerned green eyes.
– He's awake! – Said the owner looking over his shoulder
– Andromeda Shun? – Camus blinked several times, not recognizing the place he was at. He had fallen asleep next to the altar of Virgo temple
– Aquarius Camus, are you alright?
He turned to the other voice when his owner came into view from around the altar
– Virgo Shaka. What time is it?
But before anyone could answer
– It's past nine, penguin prince – Kanon was walking towards them from the way up. – You told me to meet you in your temple at five. Milo and Shura have been looking for you for hours already. I was just going out myself, better call them in.
Camus used his cosmos to locate Milo and Shura and call them back. They were relived their friend turned up.
– My apologies, I...
– You'll apology and explain yourself at the dinner you'll make for us. Let's go.
Camus blinked like his brain took too long to process what Kanon just said, he looked outside again. It was indeed night, a hot one in which the moon shone brightly in the sky. The Aquarius thought of his mentor again
"It's been clouding my judgement alright ever since..."
– You sure you are ok, Camus? – Asked Shun
He nodded then turned to Shaka
– I'm sorry for falling asleep in here.
– Rest well. – Said the blond giving him the papers he had dropped
– Thank you. – Camus looked around in case any of the papers were still on the ground. Then he followed Kanon.
– Exhaustion is a dangerous enemy, penguin prince. – Said Kanon once they left the Virgo temple behind. – Are your nightmares the cause? Because it is neither Milo nor the those documents– In a reflex motion, Camus grabbed one of his bangs. That made Kanon upset, the Aquarius was not the kind of person to show such nervous signs... Did his nightmares had anything to do with his hair? With that awful color? What did it meant? – Whatever you are hiding behind such horrible looks will never stop haunting you until you decide to face it once and for all.
– I know...
Since Kanon was sure Camus wanted to avoid talking about his concerns at all costs, he changed the subject
– Have you ever gone fishing to the sea?
Early next day, Shura, Milo, Camus and Kanon had finally gone fishing to the sea. It should have been a merrier experience but it felt like they were rather running away. All of them were anxious and silent, there were no jokes or pranks, there were hardly any words spoken when they took their stuff into the boat and sailed away.
It was Shura the first one to land a catch, a fagri. It rose the mood a great deal. Jokes and challenges finally took place and they began really enjoying the trip. Then Kanon landed two of them. Then Camus got a sargo. Milo was about to give up when he landed another fagri. It was much more than any of them expected for a single trip. They decided to dinner at Capricorn, and as usual, Shura made one hell of a dish. Weirdly enough they ran out of drinks sooner than expected, so as Milo was in the bathroom, Camus volunteered to go up to Aquarius for more and Kanon decided to join him to help out.
But once in Aquarius, Camus walked out to one of the balconies, followed by Kanon.
– Now that we are finally alone, what do you want? – Kanon asked straight to the point. Camus had been around Kanon all day as if looking to the right moment to talk to him. It was so unusual that curiosity made the Gemini also look for the right opportunity, but getting privacy in a little boat was near impossible, so they had to wait until they came back
– I need your help with something. – Kanon grew weary. Each time Camus ever said that something bad was going to happen if it hadn't already happened and needed urgent containment measures and a cover up. – But I won't tell you what it is until you swear to me you are going to take me seriously and you are not going to use this against me or Milo in any way.
– Have you any idea how worrisome is that phrase coming from you?
Camus looked intently at Kanon. Kanon nodded.
– I need you to kiss me.
Kanon was about to ask him to repeat what he said, but no, he did hear right. And giving Camus death glare it wouldn't be wise to say anything funny about it.
– And why would you want me to do that?
– I know you have been through a lot lately, I apologize for the lack of tact, but I have a theory I need to try.
– Why don't you ask Milo? I bet he'd be glad to help.
– No use. Must be someone else and there aren't many options.
– Mostly because he would bloody murder whoever dared.
– You can survive. Besides, who will tell him?
– ... I hope you are not trying to make him jealous because this is overdoing it
– That's not it.
– Do you want a lesson or do you want a rate? – Smirking at the thought was inevitable
– I already told you what I want. Would you help me or not? – Camus was just about to back off concluding it's been a mistake to ask anything from Kanon
– I'll do it... Although I don't see how I'd be of any help.
Milo was frozen solid when he saw Camus approaching Kanon and closing in for a deep slow kiss.
– What in the world…! – As soon as he found out where they were going, Milo went in search of them, since it was too late and they should stop the party there, considering everything that everyone should do the next day. Maybe he could even spend the night at Aquarius. He clearly saw them turn to the balconies instead of the private chambers, which he found weird, but he never expected to stumble upon such scene. – But Kanon said… and Camus… – Milo forced himself to pay attention, to not jump into conclusions. Maybe they were just that drunk, maybe he was drunk.
Kanon's perplexity before Camus passion was evidence enough that he hadn't started it, he wasn't even expecting it, nor doing a thing to incite it further. Camus on the other hand was trying his best to get Kanon to answer back. And he was succeeding. But then it was over, Camus backed off with a gloom shadow darkening his features. Milo didn't even got a proper chance to freak out.
– This is so messed up – Yeah, people don't normally go around asking others for kisses…
– Me being this good or you realizing how hard have you fallen for your best friend?
Milo's brain rebooted. What was that? Camus was in love with his best friend? Who's Camus best friend? Kanon? Milo?
– Huh? – Camus blinked confused
– I'm sorry Camus, but you are not the one to make me forget about Mu, as I'm not the one to help you get over Milo.
"Get over me?" Milo was shocked "Camus loves me? Camus does love me? Why would he want to get over me? What did I do!?" He immediately hid away, he needed to know more.
Camus was about to deny it all but he was too tired to play dumb. If Kanon of all people had reached such conclusion that's because he had evidence to do so.
– Why don't you just lose the cool and tell Milo how mad you are about him?
Milo felt his heart about to burst out of his chest… "Camus does loves me!"
– I can't.
– The hell? – Whispered Milo
– There must be some way to take him out of my head. This is a torture!
– It is what you make it. The more you deny it, the more damage it'll do to you. What's the problem? Are you afraid he'll reject you?
– If he ever rejected me I might go insane, but no that's not it, I don't think he'll do that even when I think he should... I'm actually afraid of losing him...
– Not following.
– I mean... Life is far too frail. I've already died… a few times. What would happen if I die again and I can't come back? People don't normally come back, you know? Or what if he dies before me? What then? How am I supposed to let go if this escalates any further? Milo is my best friend, all has been good so far. I wouldn't like to risk it.
To Milo it all that were but excuses, if Camus did not loved him, why keep the charade? Friends, Milo had plenty of those, well not really, he was very selective on his friendships, but he had just the right amount, he didn't need any more of them. "he's just been playing with me…" It was no news, Milo had feared that for the longest time, but now that he heard Camus nonsense firsthand, he could not play dumb anymore. Milo sighed. Well, at least Kanon was not on board with Camus' antics, that was a friend. Camus… who knows what Camus were. Milo left like that.
But Kanon was far from letting things rest.
– All has been good so far. You thinks it's been good? – Camus turned to him – Milo adores you, Camus, he's been waiting all this time, and I'm sure he'll wait for you forever holding on sheer hope. But there's nothing good about it if you don't go to him at some point. It's rather sad. And he does not deserve that
– No he doesn't... He does deserve better. I've betrayed him far too many times already. He did not deserve any, he doesn't deserves anymore... All I have to give is good intentions, because I've failed miserably at standing up for him. Besides, we are Athena's saints, we have a roll to fulfill. How am I supposed to protect her if I'm always torn thinking of him? If I had to make a choice at some critical moment, I'm not sure what would I do anymore...
– Both.
– What?
– You ought to choose both. It is true you might fail someone, but you ought to choose both of them always. You can't jeopardize either. An empty shell although dressed in gold is useless to our goddess. She didn't brought us back to be miserable, Camus.
– What if I'm not strong enough?
– Are you seriously asking that? – Kanon used all of his willpower not to slapping his forehead with his hand. – Then you must become stronger! – Camus looked away, so Kanon breathed deeply and put a hand on his shoulder – But don't think too high of yourself, don't go around willing to carry the weight of the world alone. You are not alone, Camus. There's plenty of us in here, we ought to be good for something other than occupy a space. – They both leaned on the handrail. – Living how we do we could just die any moment, you are right about that. And yes, next time we might not come back. But exactly because of that you ought to treasure every second you can be together. You are lucky to have each other, you must enjoy it while it lasts. Because you know, it is not forever...
– What about you, Kanon?
– Let's talk about me some other time. It's late and babysitting for a whole day it's just too much for me.
– Thanks...
– You'll thank me over my grave, if Milo finds out. Oh, another thing. Camus.
– What?
– For an ice prince you are damn hot. You do this again and I won't go easy on you.
– Kanon, the drinks!
– I'll tell the guys you had too much.
Early next morning. Shura was in his way to meet Saga. The sun was barely up when he reached Athena's temple. But instead of going in, he looked around. A familiar cosmos lingered in the air but it carried such sadness he couldn't quite recognize it right away. He turned to the left of the columns and kept walking around the building. Soon he found the owner.
– Milo – The scorpio was leaning on a balcony looking down – What's happening?
– Shura... Morning – He turned around slowly – I came to talk to Saga
– About? – Shura worried that his friend refused to make eye contact. Actually his eyes were red, like he wanted to cry but his pride prevented it. Overall he looked like he didn't slept. Milo took air
– I want to request a leave. I'd like to go back to Milo Island
– What for? – Since Milo hesitated to answer, Shura took a guess – Is something wrong with Camus? – Milo didn't reacted so Shura continued – If you need a time out to gather strength to deal with him its ok. But if you all your great plan is to run and hide from him, then...
– I don't know what to do. – Milo's eyes filled with tears – He doesn't want to have anything to do with me. If that is so, then why...?
– How come? – Shura though he had heard wrong
– I... I saw him kissing Kanon last night... – Shura blinked in disbelief – And he told him that. He wants to forget about me... If he doesn't loves me, I don't want to bother him anymore, but I don't think I can be around being just his friend
– You said Camus kissed Kanon... Not the other way around? – To Shura it was just as weird, but it was worth to know. Milo shook his head – So Kanon didn't instigated it? – Again Milo shook his head
– He made fun of Camus, sort of scolded him afterwards...
Shura frowned. He couldn't believe Kanon being Kanon wouldn't know about Milo and Camus. But wait a second, what was actually there to know?
– Do you really love him Milo?
– You dare question me? – Milo looked up at Shura, offended and defiant
– Have you told him so? – Shura wasn't impressed
– Like he doesn't know... – Milo looked away with a bitter smirk
– Have you? Have you ever tell him "i love you" to his face? Answer me.
The Hellene thought about it.
– How do you expect him to know if you don't tell him?
– But...!
– So far maybe all he knows is that you like him, that you care for him and that you desire him – Milo blushed up – All of which, truly, doesn't amount to much given you are not the only one. – Shura didn't allowed Milo to voice his alarm – That's why you must tell him how you feel, he needs to know.
– What do you mean? – Shura's emphasis in "need" triggered Milo's interest
Shura sighed
– It is not that he doesn't love you. Or why do you think that from all the people interested in him, you are the only one he has allowed to get so close? Milo, he considers himself a traitor unworthy of even being here, he told me so. – Milo's hearth skipped a beat. – You are the most important person for him, but he firmly believes you deserve better. He must believe he is still on time to spare you. So he needs to know this is not a joke, that your relationship is serious and your feelings are not a mere lustful whim. He needs to know he is hurting you with his own insecurities and doubts so he can overcome them, or else he is never going to change.
– Camus...
– Just be careful, Milo. Words are powerful bonds. Once said there's no real way to take them back so choose them wisely to make the message clear. Consider the timing too.
– I will. Thank you Shura.
– Shura, good morning – Saga had just gone outside – Milo?
All the Aquarius wanted was to rest, which kind of made him regret accepting Hyoga's request of having his friends sleep over at the 11th temple. Of course Hyoga had promised he would take care of everything, but still... and it was only 6 in the afternoon.
Maybe he could leave the kids alone in the temple while he rather slept down at Scorpio, he would need clothes, what would he dinner? would he dinner with Milo? was Milo even in his temple? would he dinner at all if his friend was out?... But his brain refused to properly evaluate the situation.
His brain refused to properly work at all which left him open for a direct hit coming from Shura which send him flying to crash on the stairs going to Aquarius.
– Camus! – Hyoga ran to his mentor
– Capricorn Shura, was is the meaning of this assault? – Demanded Shiryu ready to fight
– I apologize for disturbing you. – Shura bowed to the bronze kids – But I needed to knock some sense into my fellow gold saint before I leave.
Only then the kids noticed Shura was carrying a travel bag.
– Camus, are you alright? – Shun and Hyoga helped him out
The Aquarius looked around disoriented. Only when he saw Shura he realized he had gone through Scorpio without even noticing...
– You've gone too far, emperor penguin. – Shura said in a defiant tone – You are skating alone in black ice way too far out of anyone's reach. I know it wouldn't be the first time but it really looks like you are low on luck. You better put yourself together, I'd really hate to see you fall.
– Shura? – What was he talking about? Oh, hell, did he found out…? He must talk to Milo right away!
– Bye now. – Shura turned around back to his temple –I'll be back by the next general meeting, I hope we can still go out for some drinks then
– Shura, wait! – Camus stood up so fast he got dizzy.
– Oh, by the way – The Capricorn saint briefly turned around – He went ahead of me. Sorry you ought to wait.
– but… Shura! Come back here! – but he fell on his butt. Shura's punches were not to take lightly – Is Kanon going with you?
– Of course not. what part of defusing a bomb is to place them both in the same place? – Shura's voice echoed from inside his temple – Good luck finding him tho.
– Rats…
– Camus… – Hyoga was deeply concerned
– Go ahead, kids. I catch up later
The weather was just lovely in the high mountains of Spain. Bright sun, fresh air, and beautiful hills that climbed up to the sky.
Shura and Milo had arrived during the very early morning to a desolated spot and were walking down the path to a small town in the mountains. The sun was barely coming out when they heard a herd of goats on the move close by. The sun finally managed to light their way when they reached the first buildings.
It was impossible for them to pass by unnoticed in such a place. There wasn't that many people, and so far from the city, visitors were rare. So indeed they dragged the attention everywhere they went. But Shura kept confidently leading the way despite how much the place had changed over the thirteen years he hadn't stepped in there.
They reached the small church while the bells were tolling at the end of mass. Shura and Milo waited by a three near the entrance. People passed them by, wondering who they were and what would they be doing in here. More than one were suspicious.
But then, a very old lady stopped in her way out when she laid eyes on Shura. Upon noticing, he too began walking towards her. Milo waited by tree, looking how a young woman and two old men who had gone ahead stopped and turned to call her. They apparently were in a hurry to leave and became annoyed when they saw the old lady standing still in the middle of the way looking in another direction. They became even more annoyed when they saw Shura approaching. One of the old men began walking towards him with all the intention to chase him away, but he stopped in his tracks stunned when that young man kneeled down before the old lady and she leaned forward to cup his face in her hands and kiss his forehead.
– Renzo! – She said in a sob, tears rolled down her face
– Don't cry, Oba–chan – But Shura himself looked like crying. He took the old lady's hands and kissed them – Tadaima kaerimashita…
– Okaerinasai…
The old lady was certainly Japanese, of delicate and elegant demeanor.
But just as Shura warned Milo, not everyone was so happy to see him. The old man quickly recovered from the surprise and approached with a worse attitude than before. The Greek feared a mayor disturbance but the old lady stopped it
– This is not a place to discuss family matters. Let's go.
– but mom…!
Arguing had no place after she held Shura's arm and began walking.
– Oh, is this one of your friends? – She asked in Japanese
– Hajimemashite, Milo desu – Milo bowed in respect but he was unsure how to introduce himself to a civilian
– Oh, Sukopion no Milo–san speaks Japanese!
– Eh? not that much. – He was surprised – I rather speak Spanish – He looked up to Shura
– Not to be impolite but try not to – Shura said in Greek, indicating the people who followed them – It is ok, she knows everything.
Surely Shura kept close communication with her even despite the distance, since she seemed way much more interested in chatting with Milo than anything else. Soon they arrived to a very large property, almost out of town, and they turned to the first house from the left. She let them in but before going in herself she turned to the people following them.
– No arguments before lunch! – She then went into the house. – If you'd like to rest, the rooms upstairs are available, Renzo–kun. Or would you like to lunch?
– We are fine, Oba–chan. In any case allow me to prepare it for you. Onegai shimasu
– Oh, alright…
– I'll help! – Milo followed them to the kitchen. What an unusual situation. Surreal from any angle. Milo was aware Shura had a family somewhere in Spain but in never occurred to him to ask about them. And the Spaniard was not someone to just casually talk about himself either. But the Greek always wondered why his friend had such a weird Japanese name, if he didn't looked much like a Japanese himself. And now he was more curious since his grandmother called him Renzo and not Shura… Renzo in itself sounded weird, not like a Spanish name at all.
And there they were, fixing lunch for his grandmother. How many grandmas out there would let the grandkids cook for them? And of course, Shura did most off it, Milo would have made a disaster.
It was an enjoyable lunch, but right afterwards Milo was left alone in the house since Shura and his grandmother had to go talk with the rest of the family. The Scorpio went up the stairs to the room Shura indicated him as his own, and it was ready to be used. Had his friend called beforehand? Not having much to do, he went back to the living room and turned on the TV, but since he wasn't used to that much Spanish, he didn't get most of what was said at any channel, and bored he fell asleep.
Two presences approaching the house woke him up way later. He straighten himself and waited in the living room. Shura and his grandmother came in. the old lady went to the kitchen without noticing Milo, but Shura walked straight to the nearest sofa and sat down. He looked tired.
– I was planning to stay in here for a week or so. – He said finally – It's really clam and beautiful around here. – He looked out of the window – You can stay too, to clear your mind. – He laid back in the couch staring at the TV without actually watching it.
Milo laid back too – In all honesty I'm not used to laze off this much – He said rubbing his neck.
Shura nodded and stood out, patting his shoulder so he'll follow him.