[Sakamoto does appreciate the care with which Zura touches him, even if it's clear that his friend is repulsed by his appearance. Today he doesn't misinterpret that command, especially since Zura isn't really one to get his freak on all that frequently.
He steps back, shoulders heaving with a sigh, although that breath comes out harrowed, as if it was difficult to take.]
I can't afford to do that.
We're meetin' a royal family, today. It's taken us years to get this far! If I missed it, things'd just look real bad. Like I was bein' irresponsible, makin' excuses...
[ He's quiet, but the more Sakamoto talks, the more and more warning his expression grows, glowering at Sakamoto with intense eyes that narrow. His whole body gives off an uncomfortable aura and it's pretty obvious that whatever Sakamoto is talking about, it doesn't matter.
[Sakamoto persists in spite of Zura's glowering, although when he shakes a hand to wave things off, it just spoils his balance. His fist crashes into the container that holds both of their toothbrushes, which falls onto the counter and rolls off the edge.]
I'll be okay. One day! One day and I'll get some rest.
[ His eyes dance to Sakamoto's hand, grimacing slightly from the noise before he flicks his gaze back to Sakamoto. With one big huff, he bulldozes towards Sakamoto, palms outward to press against his friend's chest as he does so, hoping to shove him— gently but with plenty of strength— out of the bathroom.
Once they're out, his hand goes to Sakamoto's, tugging him back to the bed. ]
You will get rest now and feel better by the time you have to meet with this family.
[ He handles him roughly, squeezing Sakamoto's hips to try and place his butt down on the bed. ]
[Sakamoto isn't one to resist bodily harm, after all, he's used to being shoved around. He is listening, however, and is comforted by the thought that Zura brings up.
He blinks, albeit blearily, in a piss poor attempt to focus. There's really no denying it- His nose and head are all stuffed up, and it's as though there's a fog in his brain, settling in and growing thicker, and thicker still.]
D'ya think Mutsu's gonna be mad?
[A whisper. He hadn't gone out last night, or been irresponsible lately.
[ Now he can see that Sakamoto is complying, his voice is softer.. a more soothing tone. He fusses over the blankets, pulling them back further before bending over, hair falling over his face and shoulders, and hands curling around Sakamoto's ankle. He pulls one foot up, then the other, easing them into and under the duvet before pulling the comforter up to Tatsuma's chest. His hands work, jabbing lightly across Sakamoto's sides to tuck him in. It might tickle a little bit.
A thinking hum vibrates in his throat before he looks at Sakamoto, fingers brushing Tatsuma's stomach to even out the blanket. ]
She should be concerned for your well-being above anything else. [ He tucks some hair behind his ear, looking away from Sakamoto. ]
But there is no reason to feel ashamed of falling ill. We all know your heart and soul are still strong and healthy. [ Katsura faces him again, and this time his lips are curved upward slightly. ]
[Sakamoto feels the blankets cover him like a shroud, idly watching the way Zura's hair tosses about as the other man fidgets with the sheets. When, how, and why, did Zura come to be like this?
Sakamoto wonders.
The merchant turns to lie on his side after the other is finished, resting his cheek against soft, wrinkled pillows from the previous night. Before he had made so many excuses, about how the next thing was always more exciting than the next, about how he felt he never really had the capacity to settle down.
Was he lying to himself?
This feels nice. Something sure, something comfortable. Adventure is all well and good, but...
It's best to be adventurous with someone else.]
You feel real important right now, huh?
[The expression on Sakamoto's face is hard to read (partly because he's pulled the sheets up and over his nose).]
[ Such sincere and sweet words and affirmation cause Katsura to pause with a bit of surprise in his expression, soon looking at Sakamoto blankly other than the fondness in his eyes. His cheeks flare up, streaking across to his ears as his hands busy with something, this time getting a wrinkle out of the blanket right around his ankles. ]
I—I already knew that. [ He stammers. He knew it, sure, but didn't believe it most of the time. ]
Let me get you a cool cloth. [ RIGHT. Just gonna.. exit to the bathroom to get a cool cloth (he might as well get one of his face too.) He hurries back with a damp wash cloth, rushing over to Sakamoto's side as if he didn't leave him, one hand smoothing some chocolate curls back before he leans in, pressing the cloth against his forehead.
Zura looks absolutely focused, not meeting eye to eye with Tatsuma. ]
[Sakamoto can't help but smile, as he loves catching people off-guard. To be fair, it's something he's rather good at doing, as it gives him great joy to know that he's ruffled someone's feathers, because that is power in a way.
Zura isn't used to being loved despite having having a long-time friend as reliable as Gintoki. None of Shoyou's disciples were very good at showing affection, and perhaps that's because they seldom received it themselves. Their teacher seemed kind, sure, he had to be if he was willing to adopt three strange children just because they showed promise, but... From the stories Sakamoto did manage to hear, their sensei wasn't all that soft, either.
Meanwhile, the origin of Sakamoto's boorish, friendly nature is a mystery- Perhaps it's because he came from the country, a small, rocky beach by the sea, full of fisherman and folk who weren't well-versed in stuff decorum. Then again, some people are just born gentle at heart.
The merchant then takes hold of the hand that pressed the cloth to his own forehead, kissing the knuckles.]
[ If there is one way to make Katsura absolutely melt, it's lavishing small areas such as his hands with kisses. He can hear the happiness in Sakamoto's voice too, and all he can really do is lean back and watch until steam is practically coming out of his ears.
He's the best. Somebody thinks he is the best. Sakamoto thinks he is the best. ]
A—Ah. [ Why does somebody like Sakamoto make him so flustered and his heart beat so fast? He pulls his hand back and quickly turns around to hide himself. ]
I—I am going to make you something to eat now. Please take care while I am gone. [ MAKES A BEELINE TO THE DOOR, COVERING HIS FACE. ]
As soon as Zura exits the room and shuts the door behind him, Sakamoto rolls over and snickers into his pillow.]
Some people are so damn easy.
[But who, exactly, is he talking about? Zura, or himself?
He meant every thing he said. Sakamoto, on the other hand, has a feeling all his effort will be worth it. He's quite familiar with the idea of winning people over, customers and crew alike, but this is different.
[ Katsura prepared a feast for Sakamoto, and, the food was brought to him on a tray to his bed. A bento box, this time with food resembling puppy dogs in it was served. Also, a red colored curry which was rather spicy. He encouraged Sakamoto to drink tea, though it was bitter tasting.
After that, Zura left his side for awhile to see what he could do to assist the rest of the ship.
The door cracks open and Katsura enters Sakamoto's room, this time with some towels and folded clothes in his arms. ]
Wake up. Gather your strength and get out of bed. [ his directions are firm, this was important..!! ]
It has seeped into the machinery of his body, his nerves, his nostrils... His head. Everything aches more than it did when he first woke, despite his partner's efforts to keep him healthy. Such is the natural progression of illness, worsened by fatigue.]
...Zura?
I don't feel so great. I might sleep some more! If that's okay.
[ Meanwhile, Katsura is standing there, probably judging him with his eyes. Sure, Katsura told him to rest up, but he's had time for that. Zura scoffs, turning to walk into the bathroom and place the towels and clothing in there.
When he comes back out, he does something very cruel and alarming...
[His body offers no signs of resistance, although he doesn't get up all too readily either. Sakamoto rubs his eyes like a child being roused from sleep and leans half-heartedly on one elbow, cocking his head to the side.]
What's the big idea, huh?
[He does his best to smile, even though the other is glaring at him.]
I do. And my planning is the best kind of planning. [ Katsura says with his arms crossed. Though, they unfold when he sees that Sakamoto isn't going anywhere, and he bends over, scooping his arms to carry him bridal style. With a grunt, his posture adjusts, and he turns to take Sakamoto to the rest room..
do you hear that.. the sound of the water... ]
Sakamoto. You're heavier than I thought. Do you eat properly? [ rude. He glances down at Sakamoto when he says that, walking carefully. ]
[ What a big baby. Zura stops in his tracks to tighten his hold on Sakamoto to prevent him from tumbling out of his arms, but something about Sakamoto's despair makes Zura laugh. He's laughing. Unlike Sakamoto, Zura's laughter is more hushed and breathy. ]
Fuhaha.. Don't worry, Sakamoto.
[ He sets him down on his feet by the bathtub and puts his hand gently on his chest, giving it a few affectionate pats. ]
I know your muscles. [ implying that he looks at them a lot. ]
[ What a fuss, what a fuss. Katsura is going to hopefully hush that noise by dipping his hand down and, rubbing his little tummy. There there, Sakamoto. He didn't mean it, he's just concerned about your diet! He's smiling still, though, appreciating the feel of his body hair under his fingertips.
[Sakamoto raises a furry brow and looks over his shoulder, although there's still some semblance of a smile there, as his shoulders fall and he relaxes a little bit.]
Does that mean I get to let'cha touch me all over? Man~!
[He lazes against the back of the tub, catching Zura's hand in his own.]
Hush. You have a set of hands, hah? You can bathe all of those places. [ He says, pulling his hand away from Sakamoto and going straight to the shampoo, squirting a good amount in his palms.
He leans over, beginning to work the suds into Sakamoto's curly, thick hair, taking great care in making sure that no soap ends up in his pretty blue eyes. He mutters, voice carrying a slight hum. ]
—Though, if you behave, I can get those places for you too. [ look at him trying to talk dirty. it was a piss poor, prudish attempt. how cute. ]
[A poor attempt, sure, but the way Zura's fingers move against his scalp are enough to make him feel dirty, and so his muscles relax as he allows himself to be washed clean. Zura will notice the way Sakamoto's breath and laughter hitches, how his shoulders roll back and his lashes flutter.
He's not used to anyone treating his hair this kindly and frankly, he loves when it's being played with.]
You love to make the rules, don'tcha?
[How easy it would be.
To just say "I love you."]
I feel like I'm on top o' the world, right about now.
My rules and leadership are the best way. [ He says this firmly and confidently, allowing the edges of his nails scrape into his lover's scalp. Once he thinks he's got his hair nice and clean, he leans over to scoop up some water with his fingers. ]
Please close your precious eyes. [ Not long after that warning, he dumps the water over Sakamoto's head. His hands work and tease in his hair some more, fingers wringing the curls to get some soap out. There are still some suds, so he repeats the rinsing process. ]
This, drinking plenty of tea and fluids and rest will heal you sooner. Then you may fuss over your work once more.
[ His knuckles brush some shampoo off of Sakamoto's cheek, fingers curving around to tilt his head upward at the jaw so he can look at him. In a soft voice, he says: ]
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He steps back, shoulders heaving with a sigh, although that breath comes out harrowed, as if it was difficult to take.]
I can't afford to do that.
We're meetin' a royal family, today. It's taken us years to get this far! If I missed it, things'd just look real bad. Like I was bein' irresponsible, makin' excuses...
Y'know how I am! I got a reputation.
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When he speaks, he sounds dangerous: ]
You are sick.
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[Sakamoto persists in spite of Zura's glowering, although when he shakes a hand to wave things off, it just spoils his balance. His fist crashes into the container that holds both of their toothbrushes, which falls onto the counter and rolls off the edge.]
I'll be okay. One day! One day and I'll get some rest.
Don't worry. I've felt shitty before.
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Once they're out, his hand goes to Sakamoto's, tugging him back to the bed. ]
You will get rest now and feel better by the time you have to meet with this family.
[ He handles him roughly, squeezing Sakamoto's hips to try and place his butt down on the bed. ]
Is that clear?
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He blinks, albeit blearily, in a piss poor attempt to focus. There's really no denying it- His nose and head are all stuffed up, and it's as though there's a fog in his brain, settling in and growing thicker, and thicker still.]
D'ya think Mutsu's gonna be mad?
[A whisper. He hadn't gone out last night, or been irresponsible lately.
This is just unfortunate.
Sakamoto isn't thinking clearly at all.]
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A thinking hum vibrates in his throat before he looks at Sakamoto, fingers brushing Tatsuma's stomach to even out the blanket. ]
She should be concerned for your well-being above anything else.
[ He tucks some hair behind his ear, looking away from Sakamoto. ]
But there is no reason to feel ashamed of falling ill.
We all know your heart and soul are still strong and healthy.
[ Katsura faces him again, and this time his lips are curved upward slightly. ]
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Sakamoto wonders.
The merchant turns to lie on his side after the other is finished, resting his cheek against soft, wrinkled pillows from the previous night. Before he had made so many excuses, about how the next thing was always more exciting than the next, about how he felt he never really had the capacity to settle down.
Was he lying to himself?
This feels nice. Something sure, something comfortable. Adventure is all well and good, but...
It's best to be adventurous with someone else.]
You feel real important right now, huh?
[The expression on Sakamoto's face is hard to read (partly because he's pulled the sheets up and over his nose).]
You are.
Important.
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I—I already knew that.
[ He stammers.
He knew it, sure, but didn't believe it most of the time. ]
Let me get you a cool cloth.
[ RIGHT. Just gonna.. exit to the bathroom to get a cool cloth (he might as well get one of his face too.)
He hurries back with a damp wash cloth, rushing over to Sakamoto's side as if he didn't leave him, one hand smoothing some chocolate curls back before he leans in, pressing the cloth against his forehead.
Zura looks absolutely focused, not meeting eye to eye with Tatsuma. ]
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Zura isn't used to being loved despite having having a long-time friend as reliable as Gintoki. None of Shoyou's disciples were very good at showing affection, and perhaps that's because they seldom received it themselves. Their teacher seemed kind, sure, he had to be if he was willing to adopt three strange children just because they showed promise, but... From the stories Sakamoto did manage to hear, their sensei wasn't all that soft, either.
Meanwhile, the origin of Sakamoto's boorish, friendly nature is a mystery- Perhaps it's because he came from the country, a small, rocky beach by the sea, full of fisherman and folk who weren't well-versed in stuff decorum. Then again, some people are just born gentle at heart.
The merchant then takes hold of the hand that pressed the cloth to his own forehead, kissing the knuckles.]
Thanks, Zura!
You're the best. ♥
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He's the best. Somebody thinks he is the best.
Sakamoto thinks he is the best. ]
A—Ah.
[ Why does somebody like Sakamoto make him so flustered and his heart beat so fast?
He pulls his hand back and quickly turns around to hide himself. ]
I—I am going to make you something to eat now. Please take care while I am gone.
[ MAKES A BEELINE TO THE DOOR, COVERING HIS FACE. ]
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As soon as Zura exits the room and shuts the door behind him, Sakamoto rolls over and snickers into his pillow.]
Some people are so damn easy.
[But who, exactly, is he talking about? Zura, or himself?
He meant every thing he said. Sakamoto, on the other hand, has a feeling all his effort will be worth it. He's quite familiar with the idea of winning people over, customers and crew alike, but this is different.
A heart is a harder prize to win.]
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After that, Zura left his side for awhile to see what he could do to assist the rest of the ship.
The door cracks open and Katsura enters Sakamoto's room, this time with some towels and folded clothes in his arms. ]
Wake up.
Gather your strength and get out of bed.
[ his directions are firm, this was important..!! ]
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It has seeped into the machinery of his body, his nerves, his nostrils... His head. Everything aches more than it did when he first woke, despite his partner's efforts to keep him healthy. Such is the natural progression of illness, worsened by fatigue.]
...Zura?
I don't feel so great. I might sleep some more! If that's okay.
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Zura scoffs, turning to walk into the bathroom and place the towels and clothing in there.
When he comes back out, he does something very cruel and alarming...
He rips the duvet completely off of Sakamoto. ]
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What's the big idea, huh?
[He does his best to smile, even though the other is glaring at him.]
You got plans for me?
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[ Katsura says with his arms crossed. Though, they unfold when he sees that Sakamoto isn't going anywhere, and he bends over, scooping his arms to carry him bridal style. With a grunt, his posture adjusts, and he turns to take Sakamoto to the rest room..
do you hear that.. the sound of the water... ]
Sakamoto.
You're heavier than I thought. Do you eat properly?
[ rude.
He glances down at Sakamoto when he says that, walking carefully. ]
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Sakamoto fidgets, flailing his arms like a cat that didn't want to be picked up.]
Muscle. It's all muscle!!!
[he's the biggest joui ofc he's gonna weigh the most]
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Zura stops in his tracks to tighten his hold on Sakamoto to prevent him from tumbling out of his arms, but something about Sakamoto's despair makes Zura laugh. He's laughing. Unlike Sakamoto, Zura's laughter is more hushed and breathy. ]
Fuhaha..
Don't worry, Sakamoto.
[ He sets him down on his feet by the bathtub and puts his hand gently on his chest, giving it a few affectionate pats. ]
I know your muscles.
[ implying that he looks at them a lot. ]
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I'm not fat...!
I'm just gettin' older.
[Sakamoto thinks he's in quite good shape, thank you very much.
That and he's trying not to blush at Zura's last comment, although he's not doing a very good job at that either.]
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He's smiling still, though, appreciating the feel of his body hair under his fingertips.
Fondly, he speaks: ]
Take your bath.
Allow me to assist.
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[Sakamoto raises a furry brow and looks over his shoulder, although there's still some semblance of a smile there, as his shoulders fall and he relaxes a little bit.]
Does that mean I get to let'cha touch me all over? Man~!
[He lazes against the back of the tub, catching Zura's hand in his own.]
What a treat. ♥
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[ He says, pulling his hand away from Sakamoto and going straight to the shampoo, squirting a good amount in his palms.
He leans over, beginning to work the suds into Sakamoto's curly, thick hair, taking great care in making sure that no soap ends up in his pretty blue eyes.
He mutters, voice carrying a slight hum. ]
—Though, if you behave, I can get those places for you too.
[ look at him trying to talk dirty.
it was a piss poor, prudish attempt.
how cute. ]
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He's not used to anyone treating his hair this kindly and frankly, he loves when it's being played with.]
You love to make the rules, don'tcha?
[How easy it would be.
To just say "I love you."]
I feel like I'm on top o' the world, right about now.
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[ He says this firmly and confidently, allowing the edges of his nails scrape into his lover's scalp. Once he thinks he's got his hair nice and clean, he leans over to scoop up some water with his fingers. ]
Please close your precious eyes.
[ Not long after that warning, he dumps the water over Sakamoto's head. His hands work and tease in his hair some more, fingers wringing the curls to get some soap out.
There are still some suds, so he repeats the rinsing process. ]
This, drinking plenty of tea and fluids and rest will heal you sooner.
Then you may fuss over your work once more.
[ His knuckles brush some shampoo off of Sakamoto's cheek, fingers curving around to tilt his head upward at the jaw so he can look at him. In a soft voice, he says: ]
That is what you want, isn't it?
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HE SAID HIS EYES WERE PRECIOUS!!!]
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srry for the part replies 1/2
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1.2 here's mine
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