Sakamoto can no longer be a slave to the demons in his head- Perhaps that is why he's so loud, constantly clamoring above it all, laughing and hollering so that the will never hear them. Lately, they have been very irritating indeed.
He seats himself at the bar, blue eyes cloudy with a storm of their own. Nothing ferocious like usual, no glint of determination- Just something sad, daunting. As if the weight of the world is on his shoulders and he's on the verge of collapse. He really should just order something, but he's already had a little bit to drink tonight.
Sakamoto had missed Gintoki's funeral by three days- Well, supposedly. He had received a letter, a letter that he hadn't bothered to open as soon as he received it, as he had taken his friend's presence for granted. The handwriting belonged to that if Gintoki's kindhearted subordinate with a forgettable face, but this wasn't all that strange as the boy usually sent the Yorozuya's letters.
And Sakamoto carried on like usual when he read the news, distrusting of it as first, disbelieving. In fact he had carried on about his day until supper with an important client, laughing and chatting normally over a meal until he burst into tears over dessert.
How can one believe anything like that at all? Without seeing it with your own eyes. A man who had saved his life, gone, nothing? Just a body in a casket?
Fucking hell.]
H'oh. That color looks cute on you.
[Sakamoto barely registers the face of the waitress. She has nice hair; it's all he notices.]
It felt it had been years since he felt alive. It showed on his face and in his dark eyes, but not in the way he continued to work and not in the way took care of his appearance otherwise. Katsura had finished his grieving, which was a painful few weeks as a shut-in, spending time meditating. The only time he left the hotel room he was staying in was to visit Gintoki's grave— embracing it— speaking to him, sometimes laughing, as if he were still there and paying all of his respect.
Respect. That is what he had for Gintoki, more than anything else.
Katsura knew he couldn't continue to go on like this, and once he felt like his heart and soul was at peace— the most as it was ever going to get at this point— he went back to the other passions that drove him: saving the country and redeeming all of the samurai that had been out of commission.
He went back to the okama club to try and get the most money he could. Somehow in the midst of all of those cross-dressing men, he found some sort of comfort within them. His shift was over, and for some reason, he decided to go a bar near the club. Maybe he would drink. Just this night. Katsura hadn't dared touch alcohol to empty his head; instead, praying and taking long walks along the countryside was his way of escape.. however that worked.
Zura wasn't the waitress, but he certainly looked like one in his attire, dolled-up like a prized item for somebody important.
That voice that carried such a jovial sound catches his attention and he looks over his shoulder in passing at Sakamoto. For a moment, Katsura looks almost offended to see him. He remembers how Sakamoto wasn't there to pay his condolences to what fragments remained of the Yorozuya family and how he wasn't there to properly say goodbye to Gintoki.
In fact, a part of Katsura wants to drive his fist right across his stupid face; a part of him wants his polished nails to twist into that brown mop and pull him up to his face to lecture him with so many colorful words that Katsura himself wasn't sure have ever passed his glossy lips.
He was furious. But it didn't show, besides a coarse wrinkle in his brow. For whatever reason, Katsura bows his head meekly like a lady should: ]
Sakamoto lies in bed, sunglasses thrown down hastily on the bedside table, clad only in a white robe with a golden insignia, sans underwear. It's almost a shame, the way his clumsy body has made a mess of the sheets already, the feel as though they're made of expensive fabric and they smell like a beautiful girl.
The alcohol should have left him by now.
What a curse it is, feeling lonely even when you're surrounded by love. Mutsu is in the next room, the entire floor has been rented out, and the crew is here prattling away amidst themselves. But Sakamoto still yearns for something else, something intimate.
Something like understanding.]
Ahhhh, what's wrong with me?
[He turns over, resting his chin on his arms and his arms on the pillow.]
[ The bath that Katsura decided to take was a long one. There were a lot of things on his mind still— and it has been like that for weeks. His mind was clouded with all sort of feelings and thoughts. What was he doing here? He and Sakamoto never spent time with each other in a place like this. Even with how close they were as friends and how their friendship blossomed back in the war.. he does remember a few instances where they clung together. Was that just because of how cold the rain felt on the battlefield or how the scent of eachother's blood and sweat brought comfort to them somehow? .. Was it something else? It was a different time, a different place. Emotions run rapid when you're in the midst of a battle— but did they do the same when you were feeling excessively lonely?
Katsura turns off the faucet and stands from the seat in the bathtub, feeling the lingering warmth of water run down his skin. His eyes trace the ground, hands reaching up to idly wring out a lock of his raven hair. He feels his eyes moisture over again.
He missed Gintoki so much. Gintoki was the person that told him to continue to live beautifully— how was acting like this beautiful at all? How long was it going to take for him to feel better about what happened? Would it ever happen? Why couldn't he be the one to die first?
He dries his hair off with a towel, appearing immensely frustrated he appeared so weak. Even with nobody around to see him like this, he got tired of always looking in the mirror and feeling lonely. Even as a child, he got tired of that. Sakamoto's company was bright, though, and joyous. Spending time with him was precisely what Katsura needed right now, and didn't even realize it until now. Katsura would take what Sakamoto had to offer and indulge in it— anything to fight this feeling; anything to be with somebody he already has a strong connection with.
Unlike Sakamoto, Zura sleeps in undergarments, and once his fundoshi is tied successfully around himself, he drapes the sleeping yukata over him— it was a dark blue color with khaki bamboo print all over it. When he walks back into the room, he is tying his hair off to the side and letting it rest against his shoulder.
Not a word escapes his lips, but he does look at Sakamoto. Ah, bedtime already? He's fine with that. Maybe they could at least talk before drifting off to sleep. His company is good company. ]
[ Sakamoto had, in fact, invited Katsura to stay with him for the entire two weeks of his visit. Through this entire two weeks, Katsura was busy with his part-time job and occasionally paying his visits to Yoshiwara, where a lot of his terrorist business was being held. He was struggling, still, to continue his passion of changing Japan, but even so, he wasn't putting it on the back-burner either. For some reason, though, it was hard for him to focus on his typical leadership role.
..Why? Katsura was loss for words. He had no idea.
During this time, he was able to spend meals with Sakamoto, which was being on his ( or Mutsu's ) bill. It was appreciated, really, even though Katsura didn't really seem to show his appreciation much for it. One of the days when Katsura was completely free, Sakamoto also gave him time and attention and allowed him to go out and spoil himself. It's an offer that would be stupid if anybody would reject. And so, he spent money on frivolous and ( sort of odd ) unique things. It was nice. Almost too nice.
It was a sweet and pleasant distraction from the kind of suffering that he was going through, but he couldn't help but think endearingly of his friend while visiting with him. It came to be, that during the end of the first week, Sakamoto's loud laughter was able to pull laughter from Katsura's lungs too— along with a warming of his heart that had been so cold for so long.
His company, like a sunbeam, was shining radiantly through Katsura's clouded mind and soul. It appeared that for awhile there was a bit of disconnect of their friendship with him being in Edo and Sakamoto flitting all around space. Now, though, their friendship was feeling closer than ever.
..Why was that? Did it really have to do with their friend's death or was it something else? It's not like Katsura was too concerned about finding out why.. he just finally felt something more than just gloom and loneliness.
Anyway, Katsura comes back to the inn they were staying at and makes his presence known expectantly: ]
Sakamoto—! [ .. it doesn't seem like he is anywhere out in the open. Where could he possibly be? Katsura's eyes survey the area and instantly they fixate on the bathroom door. Was he in here? He better not be.
Zura strides over, rapping his knuckles on the door. ]
Sakamoto, you better not be in here. [ .. he wants the bathroom. ]
You would think he'd sleep peacefully next to his longtime friend, and he has been sleeping better, the nightmares are gone and the sadness that eats away at his heart when he's alone in bed fades when there are others around. Still, as much as he wants to believe things will be okay, he's worried about his friend and what this is going to do to him
Also because Sakamoto won't be there to watch over him, especially now that he is the last one who can.
He had to clock in to work at 5:00 AM, today's schedule has been busy to say the least. Plenty of important deals with millionaires, billionaires, politicians... But it's all been satisfying, he's been successful.]
Ah-
[The door creaks open as it's not fully shut tight, that's what he gets for being so damn trusting.
Sakamoto's articles of clothing lay strewn about the bathroom, his upper body bare, barrel-chest and broad, scarred shoulders visible in the dim, yellow-y light. He looks far healthier than before, and less pitiful than the last time Zura saw him right before he left- Not weak and pathetic, lying on a makeshift stretcher, but confident in his own right.
Everything about him is thicker too, from his arms to his thighs, there's more muscle, more girth. He looks surprised, but not embarrassed.]
[ Surprisingly enough, Katsura felt no regret the next day.
He attended his job at the okama club and was able to leave at an earlier time than anticipated and so.. he found himself neglecting the issue of reforming Japan to do something else that was a little more pressing to him..
Which was folding another person's underwear. This was extremely important at this very moment and Zura didn't know why.
Sakamoto had been on his mind all day; it was a little odd, causing his focus to divert to different things like wanting to come back to the inn and just wait. It was concerning for his followers, who expected him promptly at headquarters in a timely manner like he always did, but instead he had sent a message to Elizabeth to inform them he was "feeling like influenza" and "should probably catch up on Summer Sonata anyway." Katsura wasn't one to get sick too easily, so it worried some of his fellow Jouishishi rebels.
They would, in time, find an assortment of flowers for him and find out where he was staying. This would happen, later, especially if Katsura pulls something like this again.
With a slight huff, he finishes folding Sakamoto's clothes, pressing his fingertips into each little cloth with a bit of fondness. He refused to believe that all of these thoughts, feelings and warmth he was experiencing was anymore than intense platonic feelings for his friend (now with benefits; he would agree to that) that blossomed in such a short amount of time.. not like he had any kind of regrets about that. He quickly packed away the clean clothing that he had washed and folded into whatever shelves graced the inn room, which concluded his day.
The bed was made— though he probably didn't need to worry about that or any other cleaning since they could have room service but.. he wanted to do it. Everything else was clean and spotless. Now, he was able to relax. He wore his hair completely down and kept himself in a dark green yukata. He stepped out onto the balcony of their room to catch some fresh air, even if it was chilly.
Here, he took some moments of tranquility to merely think, gaze casting on the moon and the grey clouds that draped over the night. The sky.. was filled with various ships and air crafts, as per usual— which he silently despised.
One day, he would hope for a clearer sky.. just like how it was years ago. ]
That and despite being lost in such a wide expanse of nothing but cold, seemingly dead air, he knows that there is so much life in it... You just need to know where to look.]
Ah, Zura? Are you here already?
[The merchants saunters in, smiling though it's the dead of winter. Snow is caught in his hair and lashes, though he smiles as if he doesn't feel cold at all. Sakamoto runs a hand through those matted curls, shaking off a few snowflakes, his cheeks red from the harsh winds.
His expression looks so innocent, despite everything that's happened today.]
Maaaan~! It's so, so cold outside!
Aha! My snot froze.
[The man looks over at his friend, surprised, but clearly amused.]
H'ohhhh? What's this?
You goin' on some kinda panty raid?
[He may also secretly be praying you don't find the one panty in his drawer, Zura. Hey, this guy has been to a lot of crazy alien sex parties.]
[It would seem as though there is no light in this dingy shithole of a place, no light save for that of a cheap lamp flickering in strength, fickle like a flame amidst the wind.
This piss-poor excuse for illumination shines upon two grown men, sitting across a table with busted edges in chairs that are hardly comfortable. How strange, they are hardly ever serious.
One dares to speak.]
I really gotta thank ya. Y'know, I knew it! I knew somehow!
[He has the audacity to clap the other on the shoulder.]
That all those nights at the bar would mean somethin'! Glad I could give ya a call.
[There's a faint smile in response, but it fades rather quickly.
The first man's posture shifts as he clasps his hands together neatly, back straight as ever, curly hair and dark glasses obscuring much of his face.]
I know, he's no saint. But we aren't either, eh? Ahaha! Don't take this the wrong way, we're not like those guys. I know, I know. You ain't a fan of killin' dumb shmucks either, aa? It sucks.
No matter how shit they seem, we still got a little faith in 'em. I'm positive it'll do us in. But hell with it! That day's a long time comin'.
[The other man, the hairy man (hairier of the two, they're both hairy) is listening.]
[The merchant clears his throat, leaning on an elbow as he continues.]
Is a threat ta public safety. You bet! He's as crazy as he is skilled. His intentions are wacky and his head's no good either, but...
Why is it that only these kinda crooks are endin' up in jail, huh? I'm askin' for a friend.
[The friend who remains shackled to the walls. After a pause, the salesmen starts to whisper, eyeing the room. There are cameras here, there have to be, so he must voice his queries very carefully.]
We both know there are men up top who are gettin' off scot free. And they're linin' yer pockets, and mine too. Listen, I'm not sayin' you should excuse the guy... But I don't think this kind of end is right for 'im.
Kill him off, and he'll join everybody he holds dear- A grumpy good for nothin' and the man he loved more than anything.
Not because he is unhappy, but because it finally can.
Haphazardly, he removes the glasses from his face and stuffs them in the pocket of his coat, which is removed first and tossed with little care over the nearest piece of furniture. Speaking of furniture, there is hardly any in the room. The floors are relatively bare and the dresser looks as though it has hardly ever been touched, and his bed sheets could not be more plain. Despite the fact that these are the Captain's quarters, it seems as though very little has been modified since he first moved in ages and ages ago. Sure, some lighting fixtures have been added and old wood has been replaced, but other than that...
This is clearly a room for sleeping and very little else.]
Man, I'm feelin' tired today! What the hell did I even do? Sure, sure! I yelled a lot! But I do that every day.
[On the almost white walls, however, there are a few things- Pictures, but not too many. One of the most noticeable ones features Sakamoto as a young man accompanied by a smaller and less experienced Mutsu, standing alongside the members of the Kaientai and looking mighty proud. Save for their Yato vice captain, everyone looks as though they've seen better days, with tattered clothes and dusty cheeks, but their smiles seem to know better. The best days are yet to come.
There is another image, something considerably less like a photograph and more like a painting, of a woman and a man and many children, all bearing a certain resemblance. It's hard to tell who they are or even if one of them is Sakamoto, but you could probably place your bets on the child who happens to be smiling the widest but missing the most teeth.]
I wonder how Zura's doin'... Oh well! He asked me to leave him alone, so I should...
[Sakamoto's scarf falls to the floor, along with his belt. As he begins to unzip his pants, Sakamoto sits down on the bed, only to happen upon something uncomfortable.]
Ehhhhh? What's wrong with this pillow? I mean, I know I got it for cheap, but-
[Sakamoto lifts the covers and is surprised to see the outline of his friend, who appears to have his face pressed into the pillows already. The curly-haired spaceman hadn't thought much of the lumpy bed, mostly because he had left it unmade this morning.
Zura will notice that Sakamoto's sheets smell of something strong, but not unpleasant. In fact, they smell a lot like Sakamoto (when he is not covered in a repulsive mixture of alcohol and his own vomit).]
[ So they were together, now. The official words never passed their lips, but their hearts knew that they belonged to each other right now. Katsura was oddly at peace with this decision they had made— he was usually one to feel anxious about decisions especially if they weighed heavily on emotion and not logical thinking.
Logically thinking, though, they were a unique match. Logically thinking, they could work out. So— logically enough— he felt at ease.
He fell asleep with a smile on his face that he wore all night, even with them both tossing and turning. Somehow, Katsura ended up elegantly on his back, giving Sakamoto space, with his hands tucked neatly into his yukata sleeves and his head lulled to the side.
His eyes were closed, which was a rare thing for him. As a criminal on the run, he had advantages to sleeping with his eyes open. He could better sense the flashing lights of a patrol car if he was busted, or somebody trying to murder him in his sleep.
But here, there was no need for it. Here, he felt peacefulness and security.
After what Sakamoto had been doing for him, he had no reason to feel any different. They were sailing the skies, far away from the Shinsengumi— far away from the noose to go around his neck.
Katsura was usually an early riser, but all of this had exhausted him. He had been sleeping late ever since he arrived on Sakamoto's ship and this morning wasn't an exception. He was a quiet sleeper, though had a habit of drooling.
This morning wasn't an exception for that either. ]
[Sakamoto rolls over and runs a hand through his hair, blinking blearily at the ceiling. He happens to cast a glance over at the clock beside him- It's four in the morning, two hours before they're supposed to be up.
He turns to the other side, smiling as soon as he catches a glimpse of his sleeping... Whatever Zura is to him. The word is not important.
What matters most is that, despite the fact that his friend is so far away from home, this is the happiest Sakamoto has ever seen him. Perhaps it's because Zura is no longer unsure of whether he's being followed by people who could end his life, and food and water are available, abundant. The Kairinmaru (aside from the many dangers they could encounter in space) is a safe, happy place.
There is something sure in Zura's life now- That someone is here to be by his side, forever. someone with human hands]
H'ohhhhh.
[How cute.
Sakamoto leans over to brush a few stray hairs from Zura's face. His hands trail over the other's cheekbone soon after, thumb even stopping to swipe some of the drool trickling down from that open mouth. He bends over for a brief kiss, but before his lips can touch Zura's face-]
His heart should be full, fuller than ever- And it is, isn't it? He is happy and content, his bed no longer feels cold at night, and the Kaientai isn't in the red today. But something is empty inside of him, and it isn't just his stomach, though that is growling too.
Sakamoto is seated at a table that is noisy as ever, the crew seems to have picked up several habits from their leader- Talking and laughing loudly are several men and women in green, gesturing wildly and making faces. Mutsu, however, has taken her place beside her captain, and is eyeing him cautiously over her shoulder. She hardly ever smiles, and at first glance, everything about her seems cold. Some days her face barely moves, but today her brow furrows slightly, an air of worry in her complexion.
The space merchant catches a glimpse of it. Ah, shit.]
Ahhhhh, man! I'm just so, soooo tired today! That's what I get, for gettin' up so early!
[Just by an hour or two. Still, he places his head in his hands, before shaking it this way and and that. How dramatic.]
[ He would start with the kitchen. He would work his way up until he was respected and admired in the kitchen, which was going to be a piece of cake, but it would take time and patience.. and a lot of planning. Katsura was good at this, but he would start with showing the rest of the cooks that his food is to be admired the most by the captain and he wouldn't reveal his secret. Sakamoto was his dear friend— now boyfriend— but in front of others, he made himself appear more as an employee under Sakamoto, which he didn't have much of a problem with.. just probably took his duties far too seriously.
He spent too long for the meal and said NOON SHARP but it was already going on quarter after twelve, so about this time he comes rushing down the aisle in the dining hall with a closed box in his hand all the way to the end of the hallway to where Sakamoto was seated.
"I'll show them to respect me."
Not like.. any of Sakamoto's crew was disrespecting him. Maybe he misunderstood that friendly slap on the shoulder by a cook as a sign of a challenge instead of a greeting of endearment. Maybe their words went over his head and he heard something entirely different. Very likely.
He puts the box down in front of Sakamoto before glancing at him. ]
Ah. Enjoy. [ he lifts the lid, and this is what is underneath it. ]
[After days adrift, the Kaientai finally stops at its first port, a little planet miles and miles away from Earth, small but with such dense architecture the skyscrapers can be seen even from space. At first glance, it appears just the way one would imagine the future. There are flying saucers all around, littering the sky the way cars do the streets in modern times, and everything about the place seems crowded. Streets are lined with bright lights and every building is constructed from some strange, shiny metal, in aesthetically pleasing shapes.
One thing about the world does seem strange, however- While some of the residents are very, very pretty-looking... It doesn't seem as though there are any women anywhere.]
Finally, finally! Aha, we spent so much time in space, I almost forgot what it was like to feel my feet touch real ground!
[In the morning, he had asked Zura to accompany him on this particular business venture with little other information. There were a few whispers passed between the vice captain and himself, but that's all. With both hands, he grabs hold of the other man's shoulders. And, in a booming voice:]
Zura~!
[He stops before the door of a particularly tall tower, pulling something that looks like a keycard out of his pocket and swiping it against a grey, square box.]
[ As curious as Zura was about where they were adventuring to, he didn't seem to inquire too much about it. He was a diligent worker on Sakamoto's ship, but was wondering when they would touch ground. As somebody who hadn't traveled space before, it was odd, and Katsura wouldn't dare admit how some parts of it were beautiful— such as the stars; such as the moons and all the other colorful planets they passed as they drifted along.
Katsura has been wearing the uniform that was tailored for him and his hair was tied back in a higher ponytail. He is taking in the surroundings, honestly a bit overwhelmed, but it doesn't show in his composure other than a small wrinkle in his cheek and his eyebrows furrowing together.
Disgusting. This place. Pretty soon, Earth would look something like this and it made Katsura's sotmach twist at the thought. Especially now.. since there isn't anything he could do.
Sakamoto's boisterous behavior causes Zura to jump slightly and his chin tips upward to look at the tall building. ]
Ah. Are we going to scam them, Sakamoto? Do you have a moment for your lord and savior Elizabeth-samaaaa? [ a beat. ]
Ah, I am a girl scout. Please buy my cookies for a good cause. They are butterscotch. Sign here, and save our captain's b*lls from falling off. 100 yen go towards saving his b*lls, please think of his b*lls. [ ??? ]
[ After they had sealed the deal and assisted loading the cargo onto Sakamoto's ship, Katsura found himself with the captain split off to investigate the city together. It wasn't like anything Zura had seen before, so it was a little overwhelming— but not in a very exciting way. Rather, all Zura could think about was how different from Japan it was.. and how he's going to be spending the rest of his life going from place to place— being introduced to strange and weird places like this..
It was disheartening.
He had taken notice to the population being primarily male and had seen them hold hands and probably do.. other things out in the public open. This kind of behavior— Katsura didn't expect to see on an alien planet, so obviously their customs were a little different than those of the Amanto.
Still, Zura walked with his hands in his sleeves as he usually did and didn't seem to share any physical contact with Sakamoto. He isn't looking at him either, lost in thought and in emotion. Finally, he turns to Sakamoto and asks: ]
[Sakamoto, on the other hand, would argue that it's all a matter of perspective.
Everything is beautiful and ugly, but what stands out the most- That depends on your own eyes. What is it that you see?
They are far from the Kairinmaru, now, far enough for them to be discreet. In this crowd of flashing lights and brightly colored hair, they look strange and out of place, but Sakamoto doesn't seem to be bothered it. This is something he's gotten used to.]
No. ♥
We're gonna have some fun!
[His own arm slithers around Katsura's, and a hand comes up to grip the other's bicep through the green fabric of Katsura's uniform, as if to tease. Sakamoto leans over the shorter man's shoulder as he whispers the next thing:]
[ And so, they fell asleep soundly. It was a pleasant sleep they both shared, because being in each other's presence brought a calming atmosphere. Katsura no longer had to worry about the police; Sakamoto didn't need to worry about a night of bad decisions.
Katsura is naturally an early riser, and evidently Sakamoto is too.. Well, at least a portion of him is, at least.
Zura was just going to maybe bathe after he pulled back the sheets, and he does just that, sitting up on the mattress and rubbing his eyes. He sleepily looks around the room, reminded that they never got their pillow they requested (and is now angry about it after the fact) but also takes a moment to look at Sakamoto as his fingers tangle through his bed hair.
Well, then. Katsura isn't too surprised to find his partner already stiff this morning, and, he could ignore it, but.. He had said he would do something special for Sakamoto, didn't he? He debates about it as he slips out of the bed and ties his fundoshi, glancing over his shoulders at his lover. Hmmm.
In a matter of moments, he's perched himself on top of Sakamoto's hips, grinding against the hardness underneath him to give his friend— boyfriend— a bit of a wake up call.
[All things considered, Sakamoto should have had a restful night. Maybe it was the strange alien dessert he had opted for before their business meeting, or that peculiar fruity liqueur he had a sip of upon landing, but it's clear from the sweat on his brow and the slight twitch of his upper lip that something is most definitely amiss.
The scenario that's playing out in his mind isn't all too far from things that have happened in his daily life. It starts out innocuously, a routine check-up as scheduled with his urologist, complete with the uncomfortable poking and prodding that typically occurs as a result of this kind of medical examination.
Seemingly out of nowhere, cold hands grab his ****s and an elderly voice utters, "It's coming off."
Whatever friction Zura was causing is enough to stir him from sleep, and he awakens in a cold sweat.]
[So this is what they meant by that eerie, pieced together message on the network- A glitch.
What a strange thing, to know what it's like to cease to exist. That's how it all started, at least.
It was in midday on that shitty, shitty glass-bottomed boat, the only vessel of its kind that he's hated with so much, that he started to notice something strange. The edges of his fingertips began to fade, something that he watched with dull eyes, mostly because he could never have imagined something so horrible. Then everything changed, all of a sudden he felt there and the next second, like he was gone...
And the going, it was painful. It was painful, to disappear. Like every particle inside him was being ripped apart and then dissipated, burnt in something like hot oil.
There was darkness for a while, and when everything was clear again, there were monsters. More irritating than terrifying, mindless drones he could not reason with, the gatekeepers of this bizarre cybernetic world. At least they are gone for the time being.
He returns home quietly; the blood from his hand smears onto the doorknob as he turns it, and Sakamoto winces in pain as he realizes how sore it is.]
Honey~! Ahaha.
[That sound is like more of a cry for help than a laugh, honestly.]
[ It was not the first time a "glitch" similar to this had happened, and frankly, Katsura was tired of that excuse. He was still set in his way about tearing CERES apart. Nothing had convinced him from this endeavor— little did he know that in his attempt in doing this, something very important to him would be lost..
But not today.
Today, Katsura stood on both of his legs and with a kind pf passionate anger in his eyes that was near alarming. Maybe his glitch wasn't as bad as Sakamoto's, or maybe he had built up more of a resistance to what this place did to them from being here longer than his world-mate, but who knows.
Scattered papers filled the living room, also covered with small fingerprints of blood and dirt. His time in the glitch hadn't lasted as long as Sakamoto— he had enough time to at least wash up and patch himself up before going back to his plotting.
The sound at the door alarms him, as he never knows what to expect from CERES, but also wants to be prepared. He creeps into the hallway cautiously— Sakamoto can probably not even hear him with how quietly he is moving.
He stands in the hallway, still holding his sword, even when he sees Sakamoto, he doesn't even lower it. Was he losing his mind? ]
State your business here. [ It looked like Sakamoto, but was it really Sakamoto? So many times he had seen specters of those he loved: Shouyou-sensei in the snow, Gintoki getting murdered before his eyes. All a figment of his imagination due to Tellus' unstable atmosphere.
Was Sakamoto like that too? Zura was tired of getting fooled. ]
[Sakamoto wakes up in the morning with his head feeling particularly foggy, which is strange, because he didn't have much to drink last night. Sure, there's been a little tickle down the back of his throat for a couple of days now, but he's tolerated far worse than that, so it was relatively easy to ignore.
He can barely walk in a straight line as he practically tumbles to the bathroom, not concerned enough about the fact that breathing through his nose is particularly difficult today.
As soon as he turns on the light in his modest little bathroom, he's greeted by a somewhat horrifying reflection. Nevermind the fact that a face that's usually full of color is now pale, that there are bags underneath his eyes when he slept perfectly fine but worst of all...]
Eh? What's this?
[Snot is dripping from his nostrils like water from a faucet, getting all over his body. Disgusting.
Because he's an idiot, he touches the tip of his nose with two fingers and looks confused for a moment in time, but then he smiles and laughs to himself, as he's heard some kind of joke.]
Ohhh, I know, I know! It must be all the excitement.
[ Katsura was sleeping peacefully. Even if he was an early riser himself, Sakamoto seemed to beat him when it came to getting up early— but he's been having the same sleep pattern as Sakamoto considering his boyfriend isn't precisely the most quiet person in the morning.. or in general at all.
A few moments later Zura appears in the doorway, hair tied off to the side and draped over his shoulder. He's rubbing his eye as he stands there, bringing himself into focus before his hand drops and...
He can just look at Sakamoto in horror wordlessly. Like he was some big, disgusting thing. (More than usual.) ]
Sakamoto has rolled to one side of the bed, curly hair obscuring his eyes as he snores softly. Everything about his body language is comfortable, and surprisingly so. He's not drooling tonight, or smiling while unconscious as he often does. The bed is warm with Zura in it, but it seems as though the temperature is a little warm this particular evening, so he's gone and shifted to his own corner without knowing it.
His fingers do curl slightly, brandishing the soft fabric of his sheets as he continues to rest peacefully.]
[ Fair enough, it had been awhile since Sakamoto and Zura had done the deed. Tonight was a particularly restless night for Zura, his mind filled with all sorts of thoughts, but primarily the way Sakamoto's voice sounded so hoarse when he was turned on, or the feeling of his warm body.. you know.. it just was really bad all of the thoughts that Zura was thinking about.
He kind of turned himself on by lingering on the thought in such dirty detail.
And, he knew that Sakamoto was asleep, but he still couldn't bring himself to touch himself and keep it secret, so he tried to ignore it.. and count sheep. Which just didn't do any good— even with their dramatic endings. Somehow, counting sheep made him hotter. Somehow.
What do you do when something like this happens? Zura thinks he probably would rather wake Sakamoto and get it on other than jerk off and risk Sakamoto catching him in the act. Surely rousing him from his sleep for something like this would be a ... treat for him?
Zura thinks so. Everyone should want to fuck him. (His logic.)
So, he shifts very slowly, scooting up right against Sakamoto back, meshing against him in a perfect spoon. One arm drapes over his broad shoulder, fingertips wandering and wandering until they find his pectoral, squeezing it gingerly. His head buries into Sakamoto's neck from embarrassment, but it doesn't take him long to bestow several kisses there.
If that doesn't wake him up, he'll continue to allow his fingers to explore. ]
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To make his head empty.
Sakamoto can no longer be a slave to the demons in his head- Perhaps that is why he's so loud, constantly clamoring above it all, laughing and hollering so that the will never hear them. Lately, they have been very irritating indeed.
He seats himself at the bar, blue eyes cloudy with a storm of their own. Nothing ferocious like usual, no glint of determination- Just something sad, daunting. As if the weight of the world is on his shoulders and he's on the verge of collapse. He really should just order something, but he's already had a little bit to drink tonight.
Sakamoto had missed Gintoki's funeral by three days- Well, supposedly. He had received a letter, a letter that he hadn't bothered to open as soon as he received it, as he had taken his friend's presence for granted. The handwriting belonged to that if Gintoki's kindhearted subordinate with a forgettable face, but this wasn't all that strange as the boy usually sent the Yorozuya's letters.
And Sakamoto carried on like usual when he read the news, distrusting of it as first, disbelieving. In fact he had carried on about his day until supper with an important client, laughing and chatting normally over a meal until he burst into tears over dessert.
How can one believe anything like that at all? Without seeing it with your own eyes. A man who had saved his life, gone, nothing? Just a body in a casket?
Fucking hell.]
H'oh. That color looks cute on you.
[Sakamoto barely registers the face of the waitress. She has nice hair; it's all he notices.]
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It felt it had been years since he felt alive. It showed on his face and in his dark eyes, but not in the way he continued to work and not in the way took care of his appearance otherwise. Katsura had finished his grieving, which was a painful few weeks as a shut-in, spending time meditating. The only time he left the hotel room he was staying in was to visit Gintoki's grave— embracing it— speaking to him, sometimes laughing, as if he were still there and paying all of his respect.
Respect. That is what he had for Gintoki, more than anything else.
Katsura knew he couldn't continue to go on like this, and once he felt like his heart and soul was at peace— the most as it was ever going to get at this point— he went back to the other passions that drove him: saving the country and redeeming all of the samurai that had been out of commission.
He went back to the okama club to try and get the most money he could. Somehow in the midst of all of those cross-dressing men, he found some sort of comfort within them. His shift was over, and for some reason, he decided to go a bar near the club. Maybe he would drink. Just this night. Katsura hadn't dared touch alcohol to empty his head; instead, praying and taking long walks along the countryside was his way of escape.. however that worked.
Zura wasn't the waitress, but he certainly looked like one in his attire, dolled-up like a prized item for somebody important.
That voice that carried such a jovial sound catches his attention and he looks over his shoulder in passing at Sakamoto. For a moment, Katsura looks almost offended to see him. He remembers how Sakamoto wasn't there to pay his condolences to what fragments remained of the Yorozuya family and how he wasn't there to properly say goodbye to Gintoki.
In fact, a part of Katsura wants to drive his fist right across his stupid face; a part of him wants his polished nails to twist into that brown mop and pull him up to his face to lecture him with so many colorful words that Katsura himself wasn't sure have ever passed his glossy lips.
He was furious. But it didn't show, besides a coarse wrinkle in his brow.
For whatever reason, Katsura bows his head meekly like a lady should: ]
—Thank you.
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Sakamoto lies in bed, sunglasses thrown down hastily on the bedside table, clad only in a white robe with a golden insignia, sans underwear. It's almost a shame, the way his clumsy body has made a mess of the sheets already, the feel as though they're made of expensive fabric and they smell like a beautiful girl.
The alcohol should have left him by now.
What a curse it is, feeling lonely even when you're surrounded by love. Mutsu is in the next room, the entire floor has been rented out, and the crew is here prattling away amidst themselves. But Sakamoto still yearns for something else, something intimate.
Something like understanding.]
Ahhhh, what's wrong with me?
[He turns over, resting his chin on his arms and his arms on the pillow.]
Am I still drunk?
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Katsura turns off the faucet and stands from the seat in the bathtub, feeling the lingering warmth of water run down his skin. His eyes trace the ground, hands reaching up to idly wring out a lock of his raven hair. He feels his eyes moisture over again.
He missed Gintoki so much.
Gintoki was the person that told him to continue to live beautifully— how was acting like this beautiful at all? How long was it going to take for him to feel better about what happened? Would it ever happen? Why couldn't he be the one to die first?
He dries his hair off with a towel, appearing immensely frustrated he appeared so weak. Even with nobody around to see him like this, he got tired of always looking in the mirror and feeling lonely. Even as a child, he got tired of that. Sakamoto's company was bright, though, and joyous. Spending time with him was precisely what Katsura needed right now, and didn't even realize it until now. Katsura would take what Sakamoto had to offer and indulge in it— anything to fight this feeling; anything to be with somebody he already has a strong connection with.
Unlike Sakamoto, Zura sleeps in undergarments, and once his fundoshi is tied successfully around himself, he drapes the sleeping yukata over him— it was a dark blue color with khaki bamboo print all over it.
When he walks back into the room, he is tying his hair off to the side and letting it rest against his shoulder.
Not a word escapes his lips, but he does look at Sakamoto.
Ah, bedtime already? He's fine with that. Maybe they could at least talk before drifting off to sleep. His company is good company. ]
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( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
..Why? Katsura was loss for words. He had no idea.
During this time, he was able to spend meals with Sakamoto, which was being on his ( or Mutsu's ) bill. It was appreciated, really, even though Katsura didn't really seem to show his appreciation much for it. One of the days when Katsura was completely free, Sakamoto also gave him time and attention and allowed him to go out and spoil himself. It's an offer that would be stupid if anybody would reject. And so, he spent money on frivolous and ( sort of odd ) unique things. It was nice. Almost too nice.
It was a sweet and pleasant distraction from the kind of suffering that he was going through, but he couldn't help but think endearingly of his friend while visiting with him. It came to be, that during the end of the first week, Sakamoto's loud laughter was able to pull laughter from Katsura's lungs too— along with a warming of his heart that had been so cold for so long.
His company, like a sunbeam, was shining radiantly through Katsura's clouded mind and soul. It appeared that for awhile there was a bit of disconnect of their friendship with him being in Edo and Sakamoto flitting all around space. Now, though, their friendship was feeling closer than ever.
..Why was that? Did it really have to do with their friend's death or was it something else? It's not like Katsura was too concerned about finding out why.. he just finally felt something more than just gloom and loneliness.
Anyway, Katsura comes back to the inn they were staying at and makes his presence known expectantly: ]
Sakamoto—!
[ .. it doesn't seem like he is anywhere out in the open. Where could he possibly be? Katsura's eyes survey the area and instantly they fixate on the bathroom door. Was he in here?
He better not be.
Zura strides over, rapping his knuckles on the door. ]
Sakamoto, you better not be in here.
[ .. he wants the bathroom. ]
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You would think he'd sleep peacefully next to his longtime friend, and he has been sleeping better, the nightmares are gone and the sadness that eats away at his heart when he's alone in bed fades when there are others around. Still, as much as he wants to believe things will be okay, he's worried about his friend and what this is going to do to him
Also because Sakamoto won't be there to watch over him, especially now that he is the last one who can.
He had to clock in to work at 5:00 AM, today's schedule has been busy to say the least. Plenty of important deals with millionaires, billionaires, politicians... But it's all been satisfying, he's been successful.]
Ah-
[The door creaks open as it's not fully shut tight, that's what he gets for being so damn trusting.
Sakamoto's articles of clothing lay strewn about the bathroom, his upper body bare, barrel-chest and broad, scarred shoulders visible in the dim, yellow-y light. He looks far healthier than before, and less pitiful than the last time Zura saw him right before he left- Not weak and pathetic, lying on a makeshift stretcher, but confident in his own right.
Everything about him is thicker too, from his arms to his thighs, there's more muscle, more girth. He looks surprised, but not embarrassed.]
Hah! I was takin' a bath. Wanna join me?
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1/??????? stopamoto 2015
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He attended his job at the okama club and was able to leave at an earlier time than anticipated and so.. he found himself neglecting the issue of reforming Japan to do something else that was a little more pressing to him..
Which was folding another person's underwear. This was extremely important at this very moment and Zura didn't know why.
Sakamoto had been on his mind all day; it was a little odd, causing his focus to divert to different things like wanting to come back to the inn and just wait. It was concerning for his followers, who expected him promptly at headquarters in a timely manner like he always did, but instead he had sent a message to Elizabeth to inform them he was "feeling like influenza" and "should probably catch up on Summer Sonata anyway." Katsura wasn't one to get sick too easily, so it worried some of his fellow Jouishishi rebels.
They would, in time, find an assortment of flowers for him and find out where he was staying. This would happen, later, especially if Katsura pulls something like this again.
With a slight huff, he finishes folding Sakamoto's clothes, pressing his fingertips into each little cloth with a bit of fondness. He refused to believe that all of these thoughts, feelings and warmth he was experiencing was anymore than intense platonic feelings for his friend (now with benefits; he would agree to that) that blossomed in such a short amount of time.. not like he had any kind of regrets about that. He quickly packed away the clean clothing that he had washed and folded into whatever shelves graced the inn room, which concluded his day.
The bed was made— though he probably didn't need to worry about that or any other cleaning since they could have room service but.. he wanted to do it. Everything else was clean and spotless. Now, he was able to relax. He wore his hair completely down and kept himself in a dark green yukata. He stepped out onto the balcony of their room to catch some fresh air, even if it was chilly.
Here, he took some moments of tranquility to merely think, gaze casting on the moon and the grey clouds that draped over the night. The sky.. was filled with various ships and air crafts, as per usual— which he silently despised.
One day, he would hope for a clearer sky.. just like how it was years ago. ]
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Everywhere you go, the skies really are clear.
That and despite being lost in such a wide expanse of nothing but cold, seemingly dead air, he knows that there is so much life in it... You just need to know where to look.]
Ah, Zura? Are you here already?
[The merchants saunters in, smiling though it's the dead of winter. Snow is caught in his hair and lashes, though he smiles as if he doesn't feel cold at all. Sakamoto runs a hand through those matted curls, shaking off a few snowflakes, his cheeks red from the harsh winds.
His expression looks so innocent, despite everything that's happened today.]
Maaaan~! It's so, so cold outside!
Aha! My snot froze.
[The man looks over at his friend, surprised, but clearly amused.]
H'ohhhh? What's this?
You goin' on some kinda panty raid?
[He may also secretly be praying you don't find the one panty in his drawer, Zura. Hey, this guy has been to a lot of crazy alien sex parties.]
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This piss-poor excuse for illumination shines upon two grown men, sitting across a table with busted edges in chairs that are hardly comfortable. How strange, they are hardly ever serious.
One dares to speak.]
I really gotta thank ya. Y'know, I knew it! I knew somehow!
[He has the audacity to clap the other on the shoulder.]
That all those nights at the bar would mean somethin'! Glad I could give ya a call.
[There's a faint smile in response, but it fades rather quickly.
The first man's posture shifts as he clasps his hands together neatly, back straight as ever, curly hair and dark glasses obscuring much of his face.]
I know, he's no saint. But we aren't either, eh? Ahaha! Don't take this the wrong way, we're not like those guys. I know, I know. You ain't a fan of killin' dumb shmucks either, aa? It sucks.
No matter how shit they seem, we still got a little faith in 'em. I'm positive it'll do us in. But hell with it! That day's a long time comin'.
[The other man, the hairy man (hairier of the two, they're both hairy) is listening.]
I've got a deal for ya.
2/?
[The merchant clears his throat, leaning on an elbow as he continues.]
Is a threat ta public safety. You bet! He's as crazy as he is skilled. His intentions are wacky and his head's no good either, but...
Why is it that only these kinda crooks are endin' up in jail, huh? I'm askin' for a friend.
[The friend who remains shackled to the walls. After a pause, the salesmen starts to whisper, eyeing the room. There are cameras here, there have to be, so he must voice his queries very carefully.]
We both know there are men up top who are gettin' off scot free. And they're linin' yer pockets, and mine too. Listen, I'm not sayin' you should excuse the guy... But I don't think this kind of end is right for 'im.
Kill him off, and he'll join everybody he holds dear- A grumpy good for nothin' and the man he loved more than anything.
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Not because he is unhappy, but because it finally can.
Haphazardly, he removes the glasses from his face and stuffs them in the pocket of his coat, which is removed first and tossed with little care over the nearest piece of furniture. Speaking of furniture, there is hardly any in the room. The floors are relatively bare and the dresser looks as though it has hardly ever been touched, and his bed sheets could not be more plain. Despite the fact that these are the Captain's quarters, it seems as though very little has been modified since he first moved in ages and ages ago. Sure, some lighting fixtures have been added and old wood has been replaced, but other than that...
This is clearly a room for sleeping and very little else.]
Man, I'm feelin' tired today! What the hell did I even do? Sure, sure! I yelled a lot! But I do that every day.
[On the almost white walls, however, there are a few things- Pictures, but not too many. One of the most noticeable ones features Sakamoto as a young man accompanied by a smaller and less experienced Mutsu, standing alongside the members of the Kaientai and looking mighty proud. Save for their Yato vice captain, everyone looks as though they've seen better days, with tattered clothes and dusty cheeks, but their smiles seem to know better. The best days are yet to come.
There is another image, something considerably less like a photograph and more like a painting, of a woman and a man and many children, all bearing a certain resemblance. It's hard to tell who they are or even if one of them is Sakamoto, but you could probably place your bets on the child who happens to be smiling the widest but missing the most teeth.]
I wonder how Zura's doin'... Oh well! He asked me to leave him alone, so I should...
[Sakamoto's scarf falls to the floor, along with his belt. As he begins to unzip his pants, Sakamoto sits down on the bed, only to happen upon something uncomfortable.]
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[Sakamoto lifts the covers and is surprised to see the outline of his friend, who appears to have his face pressed into the pillows already. The curly-haired spaceman hadn't thought much of the lumpy bed, mostly because he had left it unmade this morning.
Zura will notice that Sakamoto's sheets smell of something strong, but not unpleasant. In fact, they smell a lot like Sakamoto (when he is not covered in a repulsive mixture of alcohol and his own vomit).]
Ah! Zura!
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The official words never passed their lips, but their hearts knew that they belonged to each other right now. Katsura was oddly at peace with this decision they had made— he was usually one to feel anxious about decisions especially if they weighed heavily on emotion and not logical thinking.
Logically thinking, though, they were a unique match.
Logically thinking, they could work out.
So— logically enough— he felt at ease.
He fell asleep with a smile on his face that he wore all night, even with them both tossing and turning. Somehow, Katsura ended up elegantly on his back, giving Sakamoto space, with his hands tucked neatly into his yukata sleeves and his head lulled to the side.
His eyes were closed, which was a rare thing for him. As a criminal on the run, he had advantages to sleeping with his eyes open. He could better sense the flashing lights of a patrol car if he was busted, or somebody trying to murder him in his sleep.
But here, there was no need for it.
Here, he felt peacefulness and security.
After what Sakamoto had been doing for him, he had no reason to feel any different. They were sailing the skies, far away from the Shinsengumi— far away from the noose to go around his neck.
Katsura was usually an early riser, but all of this had exhausted him. He had been sleeping late ever since he arrived on Sakamoto's ship and this morning wasn't an exception.
He was a quiet sleeper, though had a habit of drooling.
This morning wasn't an exception for that either. ]
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He turns to the other side, smiling as soon as he catches a glimpse of his sleeping... Whatever Zura is to him. The word is not important.
What matters most is that, despite the fact that his friend is so far away from home, this is the happiest Sakamoto has ever seen him. Perhaps it's because Zura is no longer unsure of whether he's being followed by people who could end his life, and food and water are available, abundant. The Kairinmaru (aside from the many dangers they could encounter in space) is a safe, happy place.
There is something sure in Zura's life now- That someone is here to be by his side, forever.
someone with human hands]H'ohhhhh.
[How cute.
Sakamoto leans over to brush a few stray hairs from Zura's face. His hands trail over the other's cheekbone soon after, thumb even stopping to swipe some of the drool trickling down from that open mouth. He bends over for a brief kiss, but before his lips can touch Zura's face-]
2/3! apologies
And, that smell...]
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AHAHAHAHA
DO YOU HEAR THAT, ZURA?
WHAT BEAUTIFUL MUSIC!!!!!!!
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His heart should be full, fuller than ever- And it is, isn't it? He is happy and content, his bed no longer feels cold at night, and the Kaientai isn't in the red today. But something is empty inside of him, and it isn't just his stomach, though that is growling too.
Sakamoto is seated at a table that is noisy as ever, the crew seems to have picked up several habits from their leader- Talking and laughing loudly are several men and women in green, gesturing wildly and making faces. Mutsu, however, has taken her place beside her captain, and is eyeing him cautiously over her shoulder. She hardly ever smiles, and at first glance, everything about her seems cold. Some days her face barely moves, but today her brow furrows slightly, an air of worry in her complexion.
The space merchant catches a glimpse of it. Ah, shit.]
Ahhhhh, man! I'm just so, soooo tired today! That's what I get, for gettin' up so early!
[Just by an hour or two. Still, he places his head in his hands, before shaking it this way and and that. How dramatic.]
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Katsura was good at this, but he would start with showing the rest of the cooks that his food is to be admired the most by the captain and he wouldn't reveal his secret.
Sakamoto was his dear friend— now boyfriend— but in front of others, he made himself appear more as an employee under Sakamoto, which he didn't have much of a problem with.. just probably took his duties far too seriously.
He spent too long for the meal and said NOON SHARP but it was already going on quarter after twelve, so about this time he comes rushing down the aisle in the dining hall with a closed box in his hand all the way to the end of the hallway to where Sakamoto was seated.
"I'll show them to respect me."
Not like.. any of Sakamoto's crew was disrespecting him. Maybe he misunderstood that friendly slap on the shoulder by a cook as a sign of a challenge instead of a greeting of endearment. Maybe their words went over his head and he heard something entirely different. Very likely.
He puts the box down in front of Sakamoto before glancing at him. ]
Ah. Enjoy.
[ he lifts the lid, and this is what is underneath it. ]
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One thing about the world does seem strange, however- While some of the residents are very, very pretty-looking... It doesn't seem as though there are any women anywhere.]
Finally, finally! Aha, we spent so much time in space, I almost forgot what it was like to feel my feet touch real ground!
[In the morning, he had asked Zura to accompany him on this particular business venture with little other information. There were a few whispers passed between the vice captain and himself, but that's all. With both hands, he grabs hold of the other man's shoulders. And, in a booming voice:]
Zura~!
[He stops before the door of a particularly tall tower, pulling something that looks like a keycard out of his pocket and swiping it against a grey, square box.]
Look sharp!
[A door opens.]
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Katsura has been wearing the uniform that was tailored for him and his hair was tied back in a higher ponytail. He is taking in the surroundings, honestly a bit overwhelmed, but it doesn't show in his composure other than a small wrinkle in his cheek and his eyebrows furrowing together.
Disgusting. This place.
Pretty soon, Earth would look something like this and it made Katsura's sotmach twist at the thought.
Especially now.. since there isn't anything he could do.
Sakamoto's boisterous behavior causes Zura to jump slightly and his chin tips upward to look at the tall building. ]
Ah.
Are we going to scam them, Sakamoto? Do you have a moment for your lord and savior Elizabeth-samaaaa?
[ a beat. ]
Ah, I am a girl scout. Please buy my cookies for a good cause. They are butterscotch. Sign here, and save our captain's b*lls from falling off. 100 yen go towards saving his b*lls, please think of his b*lls.
[ ??? ]
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It was disheartening.
He had taken notice to the population being primarily male and had seen them hold hands and probably do.. other things out in the public open. This kind of behavior— Katsura didn't expect to see on an alien planet, so obviously their customs were a little different than those of the Amanto.
Still, Zura walked with his hands in his sleeves as he usually did and didn't seem to share any physical contact with Sakamoto. He isn't looking at him either, lost in thought and in emotion.
Finally, he turns to Sakamoto and asks: ]
Where are we going?
Have you gotten us lost?
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Everything is beautiful and ugly, but what stands out the most- That depends on your own eyes. What is it that you see?
They are far from the Kairinmaru, now, far enough for them to be discreet. In this crowd of flashing lights and brightly colored hair, they look strange and out of place, but Sakamoto doesn't seem to be bothered it. This is something he's gotten used to.]
No. ♥
We're gonna have some fun!
[His own arm slithers around Katsura's, and a hand comes up to grip the other's bicep through the green fabric of Katsura's uniform, as if to tease. Sakamoto leans over the shorter man's shoulder as he whispers the next thing:]
Alone.
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Katsura is naturally an early riser, and evidently Sakamoto is too..
Well, at least a portion of him is, at least.
Zura was just going to maybe bathe after he pulled back the sheets, and he does just that, sitting up on the mattress and rubbing his eyes. He sleepily looks around the room, reminded that they never got their pillow they requested (and is now angry about it after the fact) but also takes a moment to look at Sakamoto as his fingers tangle through his bed hair.
Well, then. Katsura isn't too surprised to find his partner already stiff this morning, and, he could ignore it, but..
He had said he would do something special for Sakamoto, didn't he? He debates about it as he slips out of the bed and ties his fundoshi, glancing over his shoulders at his lover. Hmmm.
In a matter of moments, he's perched himself on top of Sakamoto's hips, grinding against the hardness underneath him to give his friend— boyfriend— a bit of a wake up call.
Yes, pay attention to him, please. ]
1/?
The scenario that's playing out in his mind isn't all too far from things that have happened in his daily life. It starts out innocuously, a routine check-up as scheduled with his urologist, complete with the uncomfortable poking and prodding that typically occurs as a result of this kind of medical examination.
Seemingly out of nowhere, cold hands grab his ****s and an elderly voice utters, "It's coming off."
Whatever friction Zura was causing is enough to stir him from sleep, and he awakens in a cold sweat.]
It's coming off.
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cereal-verse
What a strange thing, to know what it's like to cease to exist. That's how it all started, at least.
It was in midday on that shitty, shitty glass-bottomed boat, the only vessel of its kind that he's hated with so much, that he started to notice something strange. The edges of his fingertips began to fade, something that he watched with dull eyes, mostly because he could never have imagined something so horrible. Then everything changed, all of a sudden he felt there and the next second, like he was gone...
And the going, it was painful. It was painful, to disappear. Like every particle inside him was being ripped apart and then dissipated, burnt in something like hot oil.
There was darkness for a while, and when everything was clear again, there were monsters. More irritating than terrifying, mindless drones he could not reason with, the gatekeepers of this bizarre cybernetic world. At least they are gone for the time being.
He returns home quietly; the blood from his hand smears onto the doorknob as he turns it, and Sakamoto winces in pain as he realizes how sore it is.]
Honey~! Ahaha.
[That sound is like more of a cry for help than a laugh, honestly.]
I'm home.
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But not today.
Today, Katsura stood on both of his legs and with a kind pf passionate anger in his eyes that was near alarming. Maybe his glitch wasn't as bad as Sakamoto's, or maybe he had built up more of a resistance to what this place did to them from being here longer than his world-mate, but who knows.
Scattered papers filled the living room, also covered with small fingerprints of blood and dirt. His time in the glitch hadn't lasted as long as Sakamoto— he had enough time to at least wash up and patch himself up before going back to his plotting.
The sound at the door alarms him, as he never knows what to expect from CERES, but also wants to be prepared.
He creeps into the hallway cautiously— Sakamoto can probably not even hear him with how quietly he is moving.
He stands in the hallway, still holding his sword, even when he sees Sakamoto, he doesn't even lower it. Was he losing his mind? ]
State your business here.
[ It looked like Sakamoto, but was it really Sakamoto? So many times he had seen specters of those he loved: Shouyou-sensei in the snow, Gintoki getting murdered before his eyes. All a figment of his imagination due to Tellus' unstable atmosphere.
Was Sakamoto like that too? Zura was tired of getting fooled. ]
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NEW THREAD FOR gay extended lovers psl
He can barely walk in a straight line as he practically tumbles to the bathroom, not concerned enough about the fact that breathing through his nose is particularly difficult today.
As soon as he turns on the light in his modest little bathroom, he's greeted by a somewhat horrifying reflection. Nevermind the fact that a face that's usually full of color is now pale, that there are bags underneath his eyes when he slept perfectly fine but worst of all...]
Eh? What's this?
[Snot is dripping from his nostrils like water from a faucet, getting all over his body. Disgusting.
Because he's an idiot, he touches the tip of his nose with two fingers and looks confused for a moment in time, but then he smiles and laughs to himself, as he's heard some kind of joke.]
Ohhh, I know, I know! It must be all the excitement.
[??????? from work???
no
ur ill]
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A few moments later Zura appears in the doorway, hair tied off to the side and draped over his shoulder. He's rubbing his eye as he stands there, bringing himself into focus before his hand drops and...
He can just look at Sakamoto in horror wordlessly. Like he was some big, disgusting thing.
(More than usual.) ]
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nighttime thirsties
Sakamoto has rolled to one side of the bed, curly hair obscuring his eyes as he snores softly. Everything about his body language is comfortable, and surprisingly so. He's not drooling tonight, or smiling while unconscious as he often does. The bed is warm with Zura in it, but it seems as though the temperature is a little warm this particular evening, so he's gone and shifted to his own corner without knowing it.
His fingers do curl slightly, brandishing the soft fabric of his sheets as he continues to rest peacefully.]
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He kind of turned himself on by lingering on the thought in such dirty detail.
And, he knew that Sakamoto was asleep, but he still couldn't bring himself to touch himself and keep it secret, so he tried to ignore it.. and count sheep.
Which just didn't do any good— even with their dramatic endings. Somehow, counting sheep made him hotter. Somehow.
What do you do when something like this happens? Zura thinks he probably would rather wake Sakamoto and get it on other than jerk off and risk Sakamoto catching him in the act. Surely rousing him from his sleep for something like this would be a ... treat for him?
Zura thinks so. Everyone should want to fuck him. (His logic.)
So, he shifts very slowly, scooting up right against Sakamoto back, meshing against him in a perfect spoon. One arm drapes over his broad shoulder, fingertips wandering and wandering until they find his pectoral, squeezing it gingerly. His head buries into Sakamoto's neck from embarrassment, but it doesn't take him long to bestow several kisses there.
If that doesn't wake him up, he'll continue to allow his fingers to explore. ]
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