eternal sin 8

[warmskies]

Continued from here

[...Needless to say, his Saturday ends up free.]

[Not that Chikusa is inclined to let Mukuro know that. No, instead, he curls up on his couch and lets the television serve as white noise while he tries to sleep the day away. He's sure the Lord, in all His mercy, will understand that some days he just isn't inclined to do anything with the return of a certain curveball in his life.]

[See? He can resist. He's not like some charmed schoolgirl swooning at just a little attention.]

[...Maybe a lot of attention, considering some things, but regardless. He's not letting the demon's ego grow too much.]

[Since Mukuro was a patient and generous overlord, he waited until noon for Chikusa Kakimoto's call before setting off to look for him. First he checked at the church to make sure he didn't have any duties, posing as a parishioner to ask a fellow priest where exactly his priest was.

It was adorable how his priest was waiting at home for him like some princess stuck up in her high tower. Mukuro made sure to take out his phone to call as he made his way towards the priest's new apartment, admiring the new neighborhood.]

[He's still half wrapped in the pleasant haze of sleep when his phone starts to buzz along the coffee table, hard and grating. Even with such a nuisance, however, it takes a few seconds still before it penetrates the fog of Chikusa's mind. Rubbing at his eyes, he checks the number...]

[...And almost hangs up on the demon right then and there.]

[Honestly, it's a strong temptation that takes up another few seconds before he sighs and answers.]

"Hello. I'm going to be busy today, unfortunately. "

[Busy sleeping, it counts.]

[It was a good thing for the priest that he did decide to answer, since Mukuro wasn't the type to give up after one unanswered call. It saved him some trouble, and it gave him room to laugh quietly at the priest's 'excuse'.]

"Really? That's not what your fellow priests had to say. You have the day off, Chikusa Kakimoto. Have you always been this shy?"

"...My having the day off doesn't make me any less busy. "

[Still... How frustrating. The demon is the type to do his work and actually look over the only other place he could be. He's not slow enough to miss the possible implication that the demon could be coming to his home next, and he reluctantly gets to his feet.]

"I'm not shy."

"Really? What do you have planned for today my cute little priest?"

[Mukuro took the stairs up to the priest's apartment, humming as he took the steps one at a time.]

"Must you call me that? I'm not yours by any stretch. "

[He's also distinctly not answering as he makes the move to his room. He's still in his night clothes, after all, so he should at least look presentable when his unwanted guest arrives.]

"You wound me, Chikusa Kakimoto. Who else knows you as intimately as I do?"

[He paused, listening to what sounded like the rustling of clothing on the other line, laughing.]

"Are you indecent right now priest? You don't need to change on my account."

[Unbidden, a rush of heat covers his face at the mention of intimacy, and he's thankful this is over the phone.]

"The point remains. I'm not yours. "

[And then the laughter... Pausing, he passes a hand over his face and sighs.]

"I'm changing. That's all."

"If you insist, my cute little priest."

[In one ear and out one other, pretty much.

That resigned sigh was only going to earn more laughter from Mukuro as he neared the floor where the priest was staying. Hey, no one ever said that Mukuro was a good person. Or even a person.]

"What were you wearing before?"

[It came out as a low, interested purr.]

"Or did you slip into something more comfortable?"

[And that's when Chikusa simply hangs up.]

[It's a really nice feeling. What a shame that he can only do that over the phone and not face to face.]

[Either way, he has to finish changing into clothes fit to be seen by another person- simple jeans and a long sleeved shirt, nothing fancy- and hesitantly goes to his kitchen to start up tea. It doesn't feel right not to, with the habit that has started up between them. Besides, he's not going to let a demon of all things outdo him in hospitality.]

[For a priest, Chikusa Kakimoto was pretty damn rude. It's a good thing that Mukuro found it endearing and hilarious instead of offensive like he should. Well, he would see what the priest had decided to wear soon enough.

He stopped outside of the priest's door, tucking his phone into his pocket, knocking politely.]

[For a second, Chikusa ponders not answering the door. He knows who it is on the other side, after all, and he knows the things he told himself before. He wouldn't rely on a demon for the things he wanted in his life, affection and purpose and feeling valued.]

[But... the tea is already made. And, even with his work, he still doesn't get many visitors.]

[So he answers the door, obviously still more than a little tentative and uncertain of his own actions as he looks over the demon.]

"...You're very pushy."

"More like I know what I want and how to get it. You should feel flattered, priest."

[Mukuro flashed the priest a smirk as he tried to peer into the apartment, perking up slightly at the smell of tea.]

"My, my you shouldn't have. May I come in?"

[While he wasn't like a vampire and needed to be invited in, the priest was already on edge enough, if his body language wasn't enough to go on. It was already stalkerish enough to know where the priest had moved without needing to ask anyone else his new address.]

"I think you overestimate the value of your attention. "

[Still, there's no need for Mukuro to try and be nosy. At the request to come inside, Chikusa indeed steps aside with a nod. A little easier than having to crane his neck a lot.]

[Chikusa's new apartment seems... lighter. The addition of a lot more windows than his prior living space seems to help there, with even a balcony leading out from the living room that's set to the right. It's pleasant enough, with even some attempts at decorating. It's not much at a glance- a rug in cool colors, some simple to care for small plants, a couple of fiction books stacked on the coffee table, the obligatory cross by the television. What may be of particular interest to Mukuro might be the paintings hanging from the wall, one a simple loosely abstract piece that can be recognized as a certain park in the city and the other a more typography piece quoting James 1:19. If he can tell these sort of things, they're both handpainted.]

[To the left is the kitchen, a small but simple space with a row of counters and just enough room for there to be space between them and the small table set there. Another window adds in more light, and the air around the kettle is still hot. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there's yet another cross hanging in here as well, plus a few smaller pictures that have been framed- black and white sketches of birds. A pair of mugs are set to the side, steam rising lazily out from them.]

[Closing the door behind Mukuro once he enters, Chikusa watches him quietly almost as if waiting for a reaction.]

"Yet you still like it all the same."

[Mukuro breezed in with a smirk, doing a quiet lap around the apartment to take it all in. It was a lot more lived in than his old apartment, with more flourishes of personality strewn about. He liked the light and the paintings and the small coziness of it. It seemed as if the priest had lightened up quite a bit, and he wondered what other changes had happened these months that Mukuro had been locked away in his host body, trying to learn how to navigate it.

He headed into the kitchen wordlessly, peering at all the small sketches curiously, turning back to look at the priest with a small smile.]

"Charming. Did you do all the paintings and sketches yourself? I must admit, I'd been curious to know what you'd been drawing in my absence."

[It shouldn't be so nervewracking to have the demon investigating his living spaces, but the whole time Chikusa is all too aware of his heart's pulse and the way his hairs stand up on the back of his neck. When Mukuro ducks into his kitchen, he follows behind quietly on padded feet.]

[The comment about his art isn't particularly surprising, but he still glances at the pictures on the wall.]

"Yes. Painting seemed like the logical step up. "

[Although it's been a bit difficult- even the simpler typography piece took ages as he wanted to get it just wait with no mess ups. Going to the counter, he picks up his mug and steps back away to linger in the living area. He doesn't want to get too close and let the demon get ideas.]

"Why are you curious?"

[If Mukuro noticed the effect his small inspection had, he was kind enough not to say anything as he sat down, enjoying the smell of the tea for a few moments before taking a sip.]

"They're beautiful. Could I commission one from you?"

[For all the things he disliked about humanity, he could never find fault with painting. He liked how expressive it was, how evocative. It didn't hurt that most paintings were a good look into the painter's mind. He was deathly curious to know what the priest would paint him, if anything.

The question made him smirk slightly, and he canted his gaze up towards the priest.]

"You mean other than my general interest in your affairs? [He let that linger for a few moments before adding:] I was curious if you were still sketching me."

[Because vanity folks, he had it in spades.]

[Promptly, wariness weighs down on Chikusa's shoulders as he looks over the demon.]

"...It depends on what you would commission. "

[Knowing the demon, the subject matter could be anything. Honestly, he might even throw out suggestions just to see him sputter- Chikusa is well aware of that game. However, just as likely, it could be something utterly mundane, or even a self portrait.]

[...And speak of the devil. Chikusa frowns, jerking his head away to look into the living room.]

"There are plenty of things to sketch in the world besides you, you realize."

"Anything you'd want to give me."

[Though he would definitely commission terrible and dirty things just because he'd like to imagine the priest's face as he was painting them. That and it just fit his aesthetic. He fit both of his hands around his mug of tea, crossing his ankles idly.]

"I'm aware. But you've sketched me before. Are you saying you didn't do so while I was gone?"

"So a picture of the cross. Duly noted. "

[It's exactly because of thoughts like that which earn words like this, Mukuro, just so you know.]

[His shoulders draw in closer to his body at the continued line of questioning. Always pressing, always vain...]

"Perhaps a few times since we first met."

"The more ornamental, the better. It'd be amusing to put over my bed."

[Mukuro gave the priest a probing look at that, mouth curled up slightly at the corners.

Even though the priest was clearly uncomfortable with the current line of conversation, Mukuro wasn't interested in letting it lie. His curiosity mixed with his vanity was a heady thing.]

"May I see?"

"No."

[Well, that's certainly the fastest response he's ever given.]

[As subtly as he can manage, he shifts himself so the he's standing in the way of getting into the minuscule hallway which leads to the two bedrooms of the apartment. Well, one bedroom and one hobby room which is where most of his art supplies go.]

[The first time the demon went into his dreams, he showed quite the lack of care for personal space. Chikusa isn't expecting him to be much better just because he's a human.]

[That whip quick response was only going to make Mukuro's smirk sharpen, his gaze turning towards the long hallway that the priest was trying to block. It only made him that much more interested to see these sketches, since clearly they had to be sinful and good if the priest was so intent on hiding them from him.]

"My, my, did you draw naughty things?"

[He stood up, pressing up close against the priest in an effort to get him to shrink back or stand aside. If he didn't want to, well, that just meant he could enjoy the warmth of his skin against his own. He straightened so that his lips could almost brush against the priest's ear.]

"Aren't you glad then that I'm here? The real thing is so much better than any sketch."

[Oh.]

[Oh no.]

[It's this again.]

[The night that they had re-met, Mukuro had come close to him, but it hadn't been anything strange. Merely using him to ward against cold, sleepy and nonthreatening. It had been easy to dismiss.]

[Now, however, the air feels thick with tension, and God help him but he remembers so much as the demon comes up close against him. A familiar warmth, something he had done his best to bury when he had stopped his deal with the demon, curls in his spine as the memories surge.]

[A kitchen, dark, the demon hot, hair fisted in his fingers and their tongues sliding together. Light filtering in through his bedroom window, draping him in shadow as he lay against him, making him spasm with those first tastes of pleasure. Orders, the ache of want, the pressure of fingertips on his jaw-]

[Chikusa tries to stop his shudder as Mukuro leans into him, breath hot against his ear, but can't.]

"Stop that."

[The priest's reaction was so instantaneous it was almost hilarious, but all highly satisfying. He had been slightly concerned that the priest might have forgotten all the lessons that Mukuro had so kindly imparted to him all those months ago, but he should have known that the priest would have tried to repress those memories instead of working through them. That suited Mukuro just fine, considering repression only meant as soon as he tore the door keeping those memories at bay off of its hinges, he'd unleash everything bursting to get out.

He smirked against the priest's skin, lowering his lashes, sure that they were close enough the priest could feel them brushing against his skin. For all of his words, the priest still wasn't pushing him away, after all.]

"Do you really want me to, Chikusa Kakimoto? Have you behaved yourself all of these cold, lonely months and not even once thought of what we've done together? Found yourself wanting more? [He brushed his mouth lightly against the priest's throat, voice lowering.] ...Touched yourself? "

[He didn't have to be a full fledged demon to smell that want coming off of the priest in waves, and as always, he wanted to swallow it off of his skin, to explore every inch of the priest with his mouth and hands, to devour him whole. If only he'd let him.]

[For not the first time, he wonders what on earth he had been expecting when he had answered the phone, or set out another mug of tea. For the demon to keep his hands to himself? Foolish. That time had clearly been an outlier, a one time event.]

[This is the norm between them: Mukuro tantalizingly close, every word dipped in pure temptation, sweet sin with every graze of their skin.]

[Why is it like this? Why is it that even just the brush of his lips against Chikusa's pulse point makes his legs want to give out from beneath him and his cock start to throb from in the confines of his jeans? No one else's touch does this to him, so why does it have to be the demon? And why does it have to be the demon which hits bulls eye on every one of his points?]

[Because it's true- not even his anger could keep his body wanting what it wanted. More than one night had found him biting into his pillow, shallowly rutting against his mattress and imagining another's body pressed against him instead of cool and unsatisfying sheets.]

[Thickly, Chikusa swallows. No. He has to resist. He can't just let the demon waltz right in and do as he pleases once again. His hands, still wrapped around the mug, tremble slightly. Stop this. He has to stop this. So he does the first thing he can think of- ]

[He dumps what's left of his tea over the demon's front.]

"I told you to stop."

[It's with no small sense of satisfaction that Mukuro can sense the priest's iron will wavering, can certainly envision what the priest had done left to his own devices. Because ignorance was bliss and the priest no longer had that bliss. Instead, he knew now of pleasure, even if it was a small amount, and like any hunger that the body had sated, it would crave that satisfaction again and again.

He would have laughed, low and triumphant at how the priest's hands were trembling in a tell tale manner, ready to lay on more temptation thick like honey, when all of a sudden hot tea was being splashed onto him.

It was unexpected enough to make Mukuro jump backwards as if he'd been scalded, even though the liquid was more of a warm temperature. Truthfully, it was better than the holy water, but not by much. His expression was shocked, before his mouth twisted in displeasure, sighing.]

"I see old habits die hard. I hope you have a spare change of clothes."

[Because without much fanfare, Mukuro was going to start pulling his wet shirt off of him, padding down the hallway towards one of the bedrooms. He was going to take a shower unless the priest physically stopped him.]

[The demon leaps back, and Chikusa can breathe again. Whatever vice the creature's very presence puts around his lungs vanishes. Thank God. It's no doubt a short reprieve- holy water didn't stop the demon's flirtations, he doubts tea will.]

[Still. He takes what he can get.]

"I told you- [There's a faint dusting of pink by his ears as Mukuro starts to strip, but Chikusa ignores it as he goes for the paper towels.] -and door on your right has my shower."

[It also has Chikusa's actual bedroom instead of the art room he's clearly trying to keep Mukuro from, but he's hoping that the demon is too annoyed with his current state to be investigative. Unlike the rest of the apartment, Chikusa's bedroom seems to be the most similar to his previous one. Still quietly colored, still plainly decorated, and even a bit smaller. There's no room for a desk here, although the space by the windows has been put to use. Still the same sort of books as before, although Mukuro might spot a few things on Germany and even a guide to learning the language. The hat collection has grown, too.]

[The bathroom is a bit further inside, in a door straight ahead and to the right upon entering. It's actually quite nice, large and clean with a small glass paned shower set exactly alongside a tub. The hygiene products seem to be mostly the same... Save for a small trio of bottles along the rim of the tub that may or may not have come from a fancy bath place.]

[Listen. He got a nice bath. You use nice things when you can actually relax in a bath instead of showers.]

"Of course you did, priest."

[It sounded more mockingly sing-songy than annoyed, and Mukuro made his way into the bedroom, peering around curiously. He picked up a few books as if to find the sketchpads the priest was so eager to hide, but once it became apparent they weren't there, he headed into the bathroom, amused at the sight.]

"Is all your floor space here?"

[Not that he was going to complain, sitting down at the edge of the tub to get a bath drawing, undoing his belt and then gently shucking off his boots.]

"Are you going to join me, priest?"

[He was going to call out loud enough for Chikusa Kakimoto to hear him, idly holding his hand out to feel the temperature of the water and adjust it accordingly.]

[No answer on the first one, partially because the answer is 'yes' and partially because Chikusa is finishing up the cleaning. He's halfway down the hall when that next question comes, and scarlet blotches liven up his skin again.]

"Don't make a mess while you're in there. "

[It's his only response as he goes through his drawers before leaving out a simple button up and slacks out on his bed. With his height difference on Mukuro even in that body, it should fit him well enough. Nothing really fashionable but then, he's a priest. What does anyone expect?]

"There's a spare change of clothes here. Put them on before you leave the room. "

[And with that, he's going to grab one of his German books and hurry back to the living room before Mukuro can drag him into some sort of bath tub sin orgy.]

"My dear priest, the whole point of this is to clean up the mess you made."

[Still, he won't press his luck for now since he'd rather come back to drink tea instead of being doused in it, slipping out of the rest of his clothes. He spent a good half hour in the tub, humming old ditties to himself as he used the expensive stuff to get clean ( because if Chikusa Kakimoto had been so willing to defile him, he should also be willing to make sure he was properly cleansed ). He washed out his clothes as best he could, leaving them hanging over the rim of the tub to dry.

Once he was thoroughly finished, he got out and dried himself off. While it was tempting to go out stark naked, wearing the priest's clothing was also an amusing prospect. He put the clothes on with a small, sad sigh, rolling up the pant legs and the sleeves of the shirt, leaving his hair loose to help facilitate it drying.

He headed into the living room, sighing dramatically.]

"Is that any way to treat a guest? You should make it up to me by showing me your sketches."

[Never before in his life has he had to experience such a long half hour, that humming seeming to echo out from the bathroom and tease the very edges of his hearing. It keeps distracting him from the words he's trying to focus on and he notices all too soon when it stops.]

[At least it means he's prepared when Mukuro walks back out, a strange feeling twisting in his gut when he actually see the demon wearing his clothes.]

"...And a guest should know better than to harass their host. You're quite obsessed with the sketches, aren't you?"

"It's tangible evidence that you thought of me and missed me during our time apart. Not to mention all your efforts to keep them hidden makes me wonder about their nature, priest."

[He padded over to the couch, sitting an acceptable distance away from the priest, peering at the book he'd been reading curiously.]

"Are you planning on going soon?"

"They're chaste. "

[Yet his voice breaks on that last word, fragile as cardboard, and Chikusa knows he doesn't come off as firm as he wants. Forcing his gaze downwards again at the words that don't make any sense now even in English, he wets his lips.]

"...No. I still need plenty of time before I'm even passable with the language."

"Are they now? So then why can't I see them?"

[Mukuro canted his head to the side, smirking knowingly at the priest. He wasn't fooled for a second Chikusa Kakimoto, and even if the sketches were chaste, he had no doubt that the thought behind them were not.

He hummed thoughtfully at that admission, leaning back against the sofa, getting comfortable.]

"Should we go together? I would take you if you promised to wear ever hat in your collection while we were there."

[Don't think he hadn't noticed all those new hats, priest.]

"....You'd let it go to your head worse than usual. "

[Crossing his legs, he shifts away from Mukuro and does an admirable job of not letting it show how really embarrassed he is at admitting even that. It'd be insufferable, how the demon would act, and he doesn't want to deal with that more than he has to already.]

[The offer has him glance back, wary.]

"The hats again... "

[Quiet so far on going to another country with him.]

"You should know just how potent the imagination is, priest. Is it better for me to guess at what you drew instead of showing me? I can be rather creative."

[He let the last bit come out as a suggestive purr, fiddling idly with the overly long sleeves, rolling them up until they were up to his elbows. While it was true Mukuro's ego could always get worse, he wasn't going to give up until he got what he wanted. Even if it meant inviting himself in more often and finding his way into the other room where he assumed the sketchbooks were.

It was somewhat surprising when the priest seemed more willing to go to another country with him than show him his sketchbook, but Mukuro would let that lie for now and allow the idea to take root and grow. He shot the priest a bemused look, expression almost soft.]

"The fuzzy hat is still my favorite, but there are some other interesting ones you've collected. Do you wear them often?"

[...Oh. Hilariously enough- at least for anyone who wasn't Chikusa- the very idea of what Mukukro might be imagining has him freeze. That hadn't occurred to him before, but it's the kind of thing a demon might do, isn't it? To just sit there, purring in that delectable- deplorable voice of his all the things Chikusa most certainly didn't draw. He'd even have fun with it.]

[Horrifying.]

"...Please don't. "

[Really. Please.]

[The next subject is still a bit weird to him, like so many of the things Mukuro fixates on, but Chikusa lets himself be led down it in preference to talking about the sketchbook.]

"It's still mostly warm... But a few times. When it's been cold enough. "

[He's not sure how he feels about the demon being around for the season where wearing warm hats is going to be more and more common.]

"Too late. Maybe you should show me what you've done before I imagine worse."

[It was said with a soft laugh, Mukuro tipping his chin up, eyes glittering mischievously. Or perhaps more aptly, sinfully.

Still, talking about Chikusa Kakimoto's growing collection of hats was also relevant to his interest, and he spent a few moments to appreciate the fact that he had managed to gain control of his host body in time for the winter season.]

"I see. [You know that imaging thing you were so against priest? Doing it again and most likely with Chikusa Kakimoto not wearing anything but a hat.] At the very least, I'll know what to get you as a present."

"I only have your word that you're not already at the worst imaginings you can come up with. "

[He's starting to regret that he didn't make himself more tea. In the fact of this conversation, there's not much he can do besides determinedly not make eye contact at the more embarrassing things that come out of Mukuro's mouth. Idly, his fingers tease the pages of his book.]

[Blissfully unaware of the things Mukuro is now thinking, Chikusa shrugs.]

"I don't ask for much. Please don't bother yourself with it. "

[Please don't both him with it. He's worried about what a demon might get him, even for something as inconspicuous as a hat.]

[With a small chuckle, Mukuro held up his hands as if to defend himself, smile almost guileless.]

"Guilty. I can only imagine what you wanted to sketch out. Do you prefer to have your subjects somewhat clothed or fully nude?"

[It was asked idly, as if he was asking something as mundane as a favorite color or favorite food.

Though that second comment was enough to make Mukuro shake his head, letting his hands drop back down to his sides. Bored of just sitting on the couch, he got up to wander around the living room to inspect everything more closely, stopping in front of the paintings, letting his hands ghost against the tops of any vertical surface as he walked.]

"You wouldn't want a hat from me but a trip to another country is acceptable? What a strange man you are, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[This is exactly what he was talking about, although at least his tone is... normal. In that way, it only makes the situation feel strange and awkward for him instead of humiliatingly embarrassing.]

[...No, it's still a little embarrassing, and Chikusa's posture is decidedly stiff.]

"I told you it was chaste. Besides, I've never seen you nude. [...Wait-] Not an invitation. "

[Balls.]

[Mouth twitching at his own folly, Chikusa watches the demon roam the room and finally closes the book. Another frown as he puts it to the side.]

"I never accepted your proposal, if you'll recall. I know better than to pretend you would behave yourself in such a situation."

[It was probably a good thing that Chikusa Kakimoto was so quick to be clear about his intentions, because Mukuro had already been shooting the priest an amused look over his shoulder.]

"Most human bodies are similar. You've never sketched or painted nude models before? "

[Once he had inspected the living room to his satisfaction, he wandered back into the kitchen, intending to make more tea for himself since his own cup had long since gone cold and he hadn't had the chance to finish it.

The thought of 'behaving' himself was a ludicrous one, but for Mukuro, he had been 'behaving' so far.]

"You never rejected it either, priest. [He combed his fingers through his hair, debating about whether he should put it up now or wait a little longer for it to dry.] And I have been behaving. We're not rutting on your couch, are we?"

[If he was talking about earlier, Mukuro had merely been talking. The priest couldn't call that bad behavior.]

"I think you overestimate the amount of training I've gotten from other people. "

[This isn't a hobby he's ventured after in any professional manner. It had been something started, well... simply because he was awkward and quiet and distant as a child. Drawing had been a distraction and an excuse. As he'd gotten older, he'd simply... never stopped. An easy habit, easy electives in school, something to do with his hands simply to fill the void in his own self.]

[And these days, now, something to try and give a little more purpose to his life. To make him seem a little more like an actual human instead of something pretending to live.]

[The inappropriate comment draws out the usual flush, and he gets to his feet.]

"You came close."

"Self-taught? I suppose that's not surprising. Your skill level in other areas exceeded that of your teacher's."

[To keep his hair out of the way, Mukuro tied it back, glancing over when he heard the priest get up, smirking at that tell tale flush. Sometimes it was too easy.]

"Hardly. I wasn't the one terribly aroused. [Well, perhaps not as visibly as the priest had been, anyway. He paused, tapping his finger against his lips thoughtfully.] Though that does remind me: I still have yet to collect my payment from last time. When would be a good time for you, priest?"

[He turned to face him fully, leaning back against the counter, looking politely interested.]

"Base flattery. "

[So he's not going to pay it any mind besides that simple dismissal.]

[Like all their other times together, he knows that's not going to be end of the demon's lewd words. A distraction of some sort is needed, something to drag his mind out from the gutter for even a temporary second. He drifts towards the hall, something in mind, before the demon's words stop him in his place. Even with his usual control, his expression is twisted slightly into a look of incredulous surprise.]

Pardon?

[Wow rude Chikusa Kakimoto. And then he wondered why Mukuro would resort to just saying lewd things. Apparently they were the only thing that the priest would listen to and react to from him.

That look on the priest's face was enough to make him sigh, shaking his head as he took a seat back at the table, waiting idly for tea. If he continued, he had a feeling he'd be kicked out or get more tea for his trouble so he'd continue to 'behave' for now.]

"Nothing priest. Are you going to show me some of your other sketches if I can't see what you've drawn of me?"

[Right. That's what he thought.]

[Because as far as he's concerned... the demon lost his chance for payment that final dream they had met one another in. After all, those are only dreams. Supernatural dreams, but still dreams- something in his mind and not his body.]

[To continue like this... Something physical, something concrete.... Chikusa isn't sure he could go through with it anyway, no matter how much his body might long for that skilled touch. He can't just disregard his vows so easily for a little bit of physical fleeting pleasure.]

[If he tells himself that enough times, maybe his body will eventually listen.]

[After a second of thin lipped staring, he slowly nods.]

"Yes. Hold on, please. "

[He's gone for only a couple of minutes before he's padding back with a worn sketchbook in hand. Wordlessly, he hands it over to Mukuro.]

[The surprise- the first page in it is clearly torn from another sketchbook.... and it's of Mukuro himself with his fruit basket of a sleepy hairstyle , slumped and miserable against a hint of a counter. It clearly doesn't fit the rest of the subject matter in the sketchbook, which is Chikusa's various attempts to get animals right. He's still working on it, but there's marked improvement since the dates scribbled in each corner say he's been going steadily throughout the month.]

[...the Mukuro piece is rather recent, judging by its own little stamp of time.]

[Fight him with your mouth on his priest.

Unfortunately, Mukuro still considered the debt outstanding, but he would wait in order to cash in. Fleeting physical pleasure was correct. He was in this for the long haul, for better or for worse. He wasn't keen on ruining months of hard work just for a few moments of release.

The tea was done by the time that the priest returned, and Mukuro poured himself a cup, glancing over his shoulder.]

"Did you want some too, priest? And can you keep it confined in your cup this time?"

[He took the offered sketchbook, expecting to see sketches of wildlife or of the city or more Bible verses, but his eyes widened slightly at the sight of himself at the first page. He settled down at the table, turning it over curiously in his hands before really taking it in. Just the one page implies that there are more, and while he can't say that he enjoyed how upset he looked in the picture it was still... chaste as the priest had said.]

"I would have thought if you truly sketched me at all it would be burning in the fires of hell. Can I keep this?"

[He held the page up just in case there was any question as to what he was talking about.]

"If you keep your hands confined to yourself. "

[Still, after the last event, he thinks they should be fine on that front. His thoughts aren't entirely on tea, however. Instead, he's watching the demon's expression carefully, and it's not what he was expecting.]

[...Then again, he's not sure what he was expecting in the first place.]

[Leaving his sketches to be perused, he goes to refill his mug of tea. There's a nervousness burning in the pit of his stomach that he hopes he can drown, so he doesn't want to waste his cup again either. It'd help if he didn't almost drop it at the sound of those words, although thankfully it's still just barely off the counter when the demon speaks.]

"...I'm surprised to hear that but... if you really want it, I suppose it's not a problem."

"I hardly touched you."

[It was said rather flippantly, since clearly Mukuro wasn't at fault for that incident, but was the innocent victim in the whole process.

He glanced up at the priest's face at that odd atmosphere that fell over them, arching an eyebrow.]

"Why are you surprised, priest? You know that I'm a vain creature and that I'll take whatever you give me. Besides, you really are quite talented."

[He started to flip through the rest of the sketchbook in earnest, tucking stray strands of hair back behind his ear.]

"...It's not the most flattering portrait. "

[Carefully done, artfully done, but a reminder of the vulnerable mess the demon had shown himself as during that visit Chikusa had made and the time ha had stayed over.]

"I thought you would prefer something that put you in a better light."

"But you chose to let me see it for a reason didn't you? "

[Mukuro flicked his gaze back up to the priest's face briefly, looking amused despite himself.]

"I don't hold any illusions that you hold me in any better light, priest. You've made that much clear multiple times."

[Though he didn't sound too worried about it, turning back to the sketchbook.]

"But if you do have some, I wouldn't mind seeing those either."

"As I said before: you would get a swelled head and that's the last thing anyone needs, let alone myself. "

[Although it seems like even this sort of picture isn't enough to puncture that ego in any manner... Chikusa supposes it can't be helped. Leaning back against the counter, he blows over his tea.]

"I hope you don't plan on taking the whole sketchbook. I still have pages to fill, and I don't want to waste money on a new one until I'm finished."

"If you really had an issue with it, would you have let me back in so easily? Everyone should be allowed and forgiven for their flaws. Isn't that right, priest?"

[Mukuro shot him an amused look, taking a careful sip of his tea, pushing the sketchbook back a bit just in case he managed to spill any.

He snorted slightly at the priest's stinginess, waving a hand airily.]

"The one sketch will do for now. Though I thought priests were supposed to be generous. Should I pay for the sketch?"

"I'm being plenty generous allowing you into my house despite... everything else. "

[Being a demon. Wanting him to betray his vows. So many other things.]

[Still... That is making him think, and his response is a bit distant.]

"You don't have to pay for it. I already said you could keep it. "

[If he's in a human body with human weaknesses... Chikusa can't help but wonder about things. Does that mean he has what little advantages a human body possesses? Rubbing his fingers against warm ceramic, Chikusa finally gives voice to his thoughts.]

"On forgiveness... Can you do good deeds without it distressing you now?"

"Generous or lonely?"

[It was said idly enough as Mukuro flipped through a few more pages, settling on a sketch of an owl, admiring it with keen interest for a few extra moments before flipping the page.

He glanced back up at the question, frowning slightly, resting his elbows on the table.]

"Why do you ask, Chikusa Kakimoto?"

[While good deeds weren't as abhorrent to him so that it effected him physically now, he still didn't like the idea of them, which was cause enough not to perform them. However, if the priest was looking to rekindle their contract, well. He might be interested.]

[...That again... Chikusa's fingers curl tighter around his mug. He remembers this method. It could have nearly cut him off from one of the few things in his life that truly matter, left him drifting in the wind and feeling isolated. Or, not feeling, but... realizing.]

[But it's different now. He tells himself that firmly.]

"It's not like that anymore. "

[Things are changing.]

[It feels better to move onto a different topic, and he shifts. That seemed to get rid of the demon's good mood, so he wonders if this kind of possession isn't enough even now.]

"Curiosity. Nothing more or less."

"Really? Is that why you're free and alone on a Saturday priest?"

[It wasn't as sharp or pointed a question as it had been in the past, instead it was more curious than anything. His gaze stayed strictly on the sketchbook though, unsure of how he should feel about this development. For one thing, if the priest was actually starting to form bonds with others around him, it would be more difficult for him to become attached to Mukuro. But impeding those bond formations would drive a wedge between them as well. He'd just have to be confident in his ability to charm nearly anyone.

While Mukuro despised giving up any information about himself or about his abilities, especially to a priest who already excelled at exorcising demons, there was a large part of him who wanted the priest to understand what he had to do in order to get a vessel.]

"Everything is dulled in this body, but not enough to where it still doesn't irritate me to do good deeds. I'm still what I am, after all."

"....If I made plans with anyone or for anywhere, I know you'd merely crash them because you do as you please. "

[Also- and perhaps he should be a bit embarrassed about this- but he'd been hoping to nap the day away. It's not something a priest should really do, wasting the day by being lazy. Still, so long as no one found out, well... He could get away with it just this once.]

[His own personal life isn't important. Instead, he focuses on the demon as he talks more, fascinated. He is what he is... Chikusa supposes that's true. A body is merely a vessel for the soul. It can't change the nature of a being that's existed for hundreds of years, entrenched in its ways. So... What benefit is there to a demon to do such a thing?]

[For a brief second, Chikusa can't look at him any longer and his gaze flicks away. He knows. He's asked the question enough.]

"...If you succeeded in getting what you wanted from me... What then?"

"If they seemed interesting enough."

[No, no the priest was one hundred percent accurate. Mukuro wasn't sure whether he should be pleased or annoyed that Chikusa Kakimoto already knew him well enough to determine that, but instead settled on going for being pleased by it. It meant the priest was paying attention, if nothing else.

That familiar question, asked over and over again, would have worn on him if it didn't mean that the priest still wasn't trying to make sense of this and hadn't decided to shut him out for good yet. It didn't make it any less irritating having to repeat himself.

He leaned forward with a sharp grin, head tilted to the side.]

"We'll defile each other and sin until our mortal bodies wither away. Then spend an eternity in hell. "

[Okay but was that the actual truth or just sarcasm? Probably a shocking amount of the former.]

"Perhaps I should be asking what you want from me. What you truly want, and not just the answer you think is moral and right."

[Well. Points for what he suspects is honesty, and Chikusa is fairly certain that's what the demon's words are. From day 1, he's proven that the truths he's most comfortable with are the awful ones. What's more awful than eternity in hell?]

[To produce creatures like demons... To drag those who've sinned... Perhaps the scriptures aren't perfect in their knowledge of that place, but with all the evidence around it, Chikusa knows well enough that he doesn't want to be in such a place. His faith only has a little to do with it.]

[No amount of earthly pleasures could warrant going there.]

[He's not surprised at the answer, his frown directed into his tea, but he stiffens as the question is turned on himself.]

"...And why does it matter what I want?"

"It's always mattered what you've wanted, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[It was said easily enough, as if the inner turmoil the priest was feeling and experiencing at the moment was merely a temporary thing and would pass soon enough. Mukuro took another long sip of his tea, gaze still on the sketchbook as he flipped another page, halfway through it.]

"There's no point in taking you by force. If it were merely that, I could have done so ages ago and without having to be mortal to do so."

[Maybe that sort of thing would have been easier to deal with, a thought Chikusa locks away in his head tightly while he sips at his tea. All of this feels like something that's being dragged out longer and longer.]

"And if what I want is something you can't give me?"

"Let me guess, entry into Heaven?"

[It was said with no small amount of mocking, Mukuro finally glancing up, mismatched gaze sharp and assessing.]

"Though how will I know if you aren't open with me, priest?"

"No."

[Short and clipped. With that said, he starts to move back into the living room. His answer is said coolly over his shoulder.]

"I want someone I know will keep me. "

[And so far, there's only one person that hasn't yet betrayed him on this front. It's certainly not the demon.]

[That answer was so shockingly simple it made Mukuro laugh, his shoulders shaking with mirth. He downed the last of his tea, leaving the sketch and the sketchbook on the table as he followed the priest into the living room.

He settled down lazily on the couch, one arm over the back of the seat, resting his cheek against it almost demurely.]

"What makes you think I won't?"

[He had a feeling that would be the reaction- thus his chilliness. Lingering by the door out to the balcony, he casts an annoyed glance over Mukuro. So he's playing coy...]

"...Have you ever gone after a human like you've been chasing after me before?"

[Was the priest still wanting confirmation that he was unique and cherished and adored? Certainly, Mukuro had gone after humans before, but few had resisted him as much as the priest had. When he had taken a human guise in the past, it had mostly been for fun or out of boredom.

He gave a small sigh, burying his face slightly into the couch.]

"Most haven't been as challenging as you have been, Chikusa Kakimoto. Does it please you to know you alone have been chosen like this?"

[If it wasn't Mukuro, Chikusa guesses he'd feel guilty about his frustration... But it's Mukuro, so no such thing. Instead, he crosses one arm over his chest and continues to sip from his mug.]

"What happened to them?"

[Because 'most' still implies a presence of ones that came before him.]

"Their wishes were different than yours."

[Which wasn't really an answer, and would probably hurt him in the long run, but what else could he say? They had been short sighted, for the most part, and had traded their mortal lives for an eternity. Some of them he still saw from time to time, but it wasn't as if Mukuro had grown particularly close to them. No, death had changed them, twisted them. It was a glorious thing, but one that had rendered their contracts practically moot.

Mukuro turned to rest his gaze more fully on the priest's, mouth quirking slightly with what he hoped was self-depreciation.]

"As you can imagine, an eternity is a long time to spend with someone, especially if they're like me."

"...And that's why I say you can't give me what I want. "

[It's not said as a condemnation, but a simple matter of fact. Chikusa looks back outside, sighing. He's not surprised by that answer, either the fates of those who came before him or what Mukuro's kind can stand for so long. He expected it.]

"When I say "keep"... I mean it. If you were a human making human promises, things like until death do us part, I'd grant you that much, at least. But you're not human, despite the body you're using... and I have no interest in being tossed aside to be replaced by whatever shiny new mortal catches your attention next."

"My, my, are you that attached to me already Chikusa Kakimoto?"

[Mukuro sat up, expression politely interested as he surveyed the priest's face.]

"Know this, priest: I have never become mortal for another before. I can promise you this: for as long as you will have me, I will be there for you. Is that enough for you?"

[Because he was sure the priest would tire of him first, or, like most other mortals, once he was introduced to sin he would climb to even greater heights. Perhaps with multiple partners. For all humanity's fears about the appetites of demons, one need look no further than a corrupted human to know true depravity.]

[...It could be a lie. He knows it could be. At the same time, he knows demons, and he knows that the difficulties Mukuro speaks of when it comes to possession and good deeds aren't falsehoods. Finding a suitable body to consensually possess, one that isn't falling apart at the seams like human bodies do under forced possession, putting together a home for his mortal body and tracking him down...]

[There's weight to his words, now, and Chikusa doesn't know what to do with it all. He swallows, gaze centered on but not seeing the world outside his apartment.]

"...I've dedicated all my life to God since I was young. I can't throw it all away just like that... "

[Even if it's possibly the most tempting thing he's ever heard out of the demon's mouth.]

"Let me tell you a secret, priest."

[Mukuro stood, slowly and smoothly, as if any sudden movement might cause the priest to start and run. He came to join him by the doorway, keeping a respectable distance between them, but his lashes were lowered, his mouth curved up in a soft smirk.]

"Your god is dead and couldn't care less about how you live your life or what you do. There's no need to ask permission or forgiveness from an entity that doesn't exist."

[Perhaps the comparison, too apt to that of a skittish animal, is well founded. Mukuro stands, and Chikusa's gaze is tentative as it flicks up to him from beneath his bangs. Maybe there's even a desire to hear something that will convince him, that will set in stone that he can truly get what he's never been able to have before.]

[In the end, of course, it's the same thing as always, and his expression turns cold again as he shifts until his back is to the demon.]

"That, again?"

[Ah, of course he couldn't expect such words to be of comfort to a priest who was actually devote. Mukuro sighed softly as he turned away heading back towards the kitchen.]

"What else would you like to hear from me priest, priest? My words are still lies, no matter what, aren't they?"

[He headed towards the table to rinse out his cup, then gently pocketed the sketch he had been given so it hopefully wouldn't crease.]

"It's getting late. I'll leave you to your busy plans."

[What else indeed... After a few seconds of keeping to himself, he turns around again to stare back at the demon.]

"...They're not always lies. That's the part which makes this difficult. "

[If they were all lies, then simple, he could comfortably stay devoted to God and live his life as he's always done. If they were truths, then.... who knows what, then. But this? This only leaves him awkwardly placed between two very different paths.]

[He doesn't want such uncertainty.]

"...Do you plan on forcing a visit again some time soon?"

"Then you should believe that I'm not interested in leaving you on your own, nor is there any other who could replace you."

[The words were said idly, though Mukuro kept his gaze even on the priest's face, as if the weight of his stare alone would make those words heavy enough to sink in and take root.

He ran a hand through his hair, turning away with a small sigh at the priest's rude choice of words.]

"If you feel like it's forced upon you, I'll let you pick the next time and place for our meeting. I'll leave you alone for the next few weeks, if it pleases you, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[That and he would be out of town. Just because he didn't have any mortals to replace the priest with didn't mean he didn't have commitments. Being in one body was putting a damper on how many contracts and deals he was able to maintain with mortals, and some of them were very demanding.

He headed towards the door, turning to wave idly at the priest.]

"Until next time, priest."

["rude" you mean true as hell mister "i'm going to hunt down where you live and then come over without invitation", don't lie to him]

[Not that such things are on his mind, not as Mukuro stares right into him and, for not the first time, he feels that hunger again. That same sensation, dark and full of need, which had curled in his stomach and flowed through his body as when the demon had said he wasn't letting go of him. It's a feeling that he's been trying to bury ever since then.]

[After all... It's the kind of feeling that makes him want to give in. To get on his knees and beg instead of pray. To be ravaged and moan and fist his fingers in that hair to keep him close like he keeps promising...]

[It was at its worst right after he broke off their deal, when he was angry and frustrated and wanting. In contrast, this is more of a low shimmer as he watches Mukuro walk away and only belatedly remembers to follow after him.]

"I'll let you know when a good time is, then. [A pause and then, tentatively-] Stay safe on your way home. "

[It's the only thing he can think to say.]

[Chikusa takes a month for himself, once again going through the motions of his life while his mind drifts back towards Mukuro again and again. It's a pattern he didn't think he'd start up with again, but it can't be helped. If the demon is being true, being honest... If he could be kept, not left behind or shunned again, feel that pleasure like a promise...]

[...Sometimes it's hard to pray and still hear nothing when the demon's voice is still ringing in his ears.]

[Eventually, however, after going over it for an entire day, he stops fingering his phone and actually sends a text.]

What day are you next free?

[It's adorable that the priest wished him well on his way home, and Mukuro hadn't done more than nod at it before leaving, warmed by it as well as the knowledge that the priest would getting in contact with him soon enough.

As soon as he got home, he made sure to find a proper frame for the sketch and set it up in his kitchen, above where he usually kept his tea kettle and his various assorted teas. It clashed slightly with his decor, but wasn't that the whole point? To have a few personalized touches in his apartment than the sterile things he had picked out of a catalog.

His business took him to France ( where he payed a visit to one high maintenance woman who had laughed herself sick when she saw him in his new form, but would help him with his enterprises for a cut of them and his mouthy little apprentice ), and it went over without a hitch. He found himself impatient to return to the priest, even though there wasn't a call or text from him the whole time he was there.

There was nothing either, for the first few days he had returned to his apartment, and he had been ready to hunt down his contacts who had been keeping an eye on the priest when his phone finally buzzed.

The text was innocuous, but it made Mukuro smirk triumphantly all the same, letting it sit there unanswered for an hour or so before finally responding:]

This Saturday. Should we make a day out of it?

I was planning on inviting you to lunch or dinner. What did you have in mind?

[He's half expecting a non-serious answer, such as an orgy suggestion, but he's prepared for it this time. Really.]

[If an orgy was an option he'd definitely go for it. No surprise there. Instead, enjoy this:]

There's an interesting art exhibit this weekend. It might provide some entertainment. Or if you prefer something more mundane, some movies I want to see are still playing in the theater.

What do you mean by 'interesting'?

[It feels like a valid concern to have.]

[A rude concern, but a valid one. But it was still rude.]

The theme is scenes from the Bible. However, if you're wanting something far more in line with my interests, I'm sure I could entertain you.

No. The original plan is more than fine. Where do you want to meet?

Kufufu if you say so priest. The museum is at [insert address here]. The exhibit is all day, so if you prefer, we can meet a little before noon and get lunch if you have time in your busy schedule.

[Did you just type out your laughter in text, Mukuro? He is judging you so much right now. Why is he attracted to you.]

That would be nice. Eleven then?

[Look if kids these days could type out 'lol' or 'haha' is 'kufufu' really worse? I mean clearly it is but still. Also it's because he's sinfully hot.]

I'll see you there then, priest. You should wear a hat, I hear it's supposed to be cold.

[Mukuro himself was going to be bundled up rather warmly in gloves, a thick purple scarf, and a thick black peacoat. He was going to show up a few minutes before the predetermined meeting time, watching people pass by him in amusement, with none of the anxious head turning one normally did when waiting for someone.]

[The thing about the hats again...]

[And yet, despite his thoughts, he wears one as he comes up the sidewalk, a large paper folder tucked carefully under one arm. Dark blues are the mainstay of his outfit, from his coats to his pants, with the only exception being his black shoes. His hat, unfortunately for Mukuro, doesn't have a puff on it, but it is thickly knit and patterned.]

[He was just worried about you priest, is all.

As soon as he spotted the priest, Mukuro's lips curved upwards, and he swanned towards him easily, cutting through the crowd of people. It wasn't his favorite hat, alas, but the pattern was rather charming and he had half-expected the priest not to wear one at all just to spite him.]

"Glad you could make it, Chikusa Kakimoto. What's this?"

[He looked at the folder curiously, coming to a halt in front of him.]

"...The picture I said I would draw for you."

[It seemed simpler, after all, to bring it to him when they had already decided to meet somewhere. Arm crossed over his middle, he curls his fingers uncertainly against the folder.]

"If you don't have a car, it can wait in mine."

[For a moment, Mukuro's eyes widened in surprise, before he let out a small, smug chuckle.]

"My, my priest, you're far too kind. Let me see it before you put it away."

[Since he had found the idea of driving a car abhorrent, mostly he'd been taking cabs everywhere, though every once in a while he didn't mind slumming it and riding on the bus. There were quite a few people on there who proved to be susceptible to manipulation and promises, and nothing compared to people watching on one.

He held his hand out for the folder, flicking his gaze up to the priest's.]

"How much do I owe you?"

"It's nothing... "

[Despite his words, however, it's clear that the piece of work in the folder has taken considerable time. As joked before, it's of a cross, but most crosses aren't made of probably hundreds of bones. It's not a simple femur over femur type of thing, either, but almost every bone that can be imagined that is both organized and yet cluttered. At the center of it all is a ribcage.]

[It's not just that, however... Closer inspection will reveal that this isn't merely sketched, but the lines composed of words. Biblical verses, in fact. The outlines, the shading... All of it.]

[Picture given, Chikusa hides his hands away in his pockets and waits.]

[As an entity who had little love for the human body, specifically that it was mortal and decayed so easily, he couldn't help but be impressed by all the bones in the cross. It was certainly morbid for a priest, but he had to admit that he didn't dislike it, even with the shape they ultimately formed.

He held it out to admire it, gaze flickering across each bone as if to categorize them and assemble a full skeleton out of them, drinking it all in.]

"Rather morbid for a priest, but very stunning."

[Still, he paused as he caught the thread of a word in one of the larger bones, bringing it closer to his face in curiosity. He started reading the familiar verses, the words flowing through him easily.]

"This must have taken quite some time and effort. I can't just take this without giving you something in return."

[He paused, peeking around the canvas.]

"Especially since I like it so much."

"Is it? I hadn't noticed. "

[Funnily enough, Chikusa is sincere in that, for all that it might be hard to tell considering his... everything. He just blinks at Mukuro, like it's totally normal to make this kind of art.]

[Really, he doesn't see the problem. For all that he's a holy man, Chikusa doesn't shy away from some of the things that his religion or holy book have in them. He has a good memory. The Bible holds passages of men being killed with the jawbone of a donkey, genital mutilation... and one can't really not think about communion.]

[This is normal, right? Totally normal.]

[...There's a reason he's a bit bad at people.]

"If you insist... Where did you want to have lunch?"

[That answer seemed wholly honest, and Mukuro raised an eyebrow as he turned his gaze back to the priest, slightly incredulous, before shaking his head in amusement. He was the last person who could judge someone on making art out of bones, since his name was something like Bones McSkullDeath or whatever it translated to.]

"What made you decide on bones?"

[He could see exactly why Chikusa Kakimoto was so lonely and alone. He was strange, even to a demon, but it was that same uniqueness that had drawn Mukuro to him.

Admiring the painting for a few more moments, Mukuro stuck it back into the folder, sure he would have more time to appreciate it later. Perhaps he would just carry it around with him. He liked the weight of it, a tangible link to his priest.]

"There are a few cafes near here, or if you're more interested in substantial fare, there's a German restaurant nearby."

"It seemed to be the kind of aesthetic you would appreciate. "

[Yeah, he's calling you out, mister "Six Paths Corpse". After a second, however, there's a considering tilt of his head.]

"...Many other Christians are preoccupied with death... and even our religion itself is somewhat like that. The cross itself was even a symbol of torture. The death of Jesus Christ giving humanity salvation, that salvation only being available to us upon death, all the deaths the Bible and other scripture speak of... To endure that kind of wait means taking the teachings of God and Christ deep into ourselves. "

[He thought long and hard about it all.]

[Since the demon seems content to have the picture himself, Chikusa doesn't ask for it back and instead considers his options.]

"If we're going to be walking through a museum, then something lighter seems for the best."

"You know me so well already, my cute priest."

[He said it like it was a sinful, carnal knowledge which wasn't exactly wrong, but definitely a bit over-exaggerated.

As the priest talked, he tucked the folder under his arm, listening with a small sigh.]

"Then what about creatures that can't die, Chikusa Kakimoto? Are they without salvation?"

[Not that he cared for the kind of eternal saving that the priest spoke of. He had lost his taste for such a fairy tale. No, he knew better, and while it would be amusing to try and browbeat the religion out of the priest, that would take out some of the fun of this.

Instead, he offered his arm to the other man, smirking.]

"Are you hungry now? We can eat first then."

"I imagine they have their own manner of dealing with that dilemma, but I can only tell you the human views. "

[Also, you're a lying bastard who doesn't care about salvation, but he won't go into that. This is supposed to be a civil outting.]

[...A civil outing where he doesn't know where to do with that arm being offered to him. With more than a little tentativeness, he lays his hand gently on it.]

"...Alright. How are you doing with that body?"

"Focusing on death for salvation seems short sighted. What if reincarnation was real?"

[It wasn't exactly taboo to speak of what actually went on after death, but it was frowned upon by some. Some demons liked to keep up the mystique and lie about what might happen to their victims should they trust them. Mukuro preferred the truth, since it was far scarier.

He tried not to look too smug when the priest took his arm, even if it was gingerly, starting for one of the cafes.]

"Would you like to check for yourself priest?"

[He shot him a coy glance, lashes lowered.]

"It's what people chase.... I can't change that. [A shrug.] And I've never seen evidence to it, so I can't speak on reincarnation. "

[That's an entirely different religion, after all. As Mukuro escorts him, he doesn't bother giving the demon any other reaction than a deadpan one.]

"I'm not a doctor, so it wouldn't do any good."

[Sometimes his priest could be such a killjoy. Mukuro sighed at that response, turning his attention towards the cafes, heading towards the one he liked the best. He may or may not have scoped out a few of them just to make sure they would go somewhere up to his standards.]

"Are you worried about me or the vessel?"

[And, in the highly likely event that Chikusa Kakimoto didn't feel like answering, Mukuro pointed to a cute looking cafe.]

"I like this one. It has the best parfaits."

[Now isn't that a difficult question? Chikusa lapses into silence as he follows Mukuro's lead, blocking out the chatter of the city. He knows, as a priest, he should be focused more on the wellness of the person whose body Mukuro has taken, but..]

"...Both. But... [It feels like regret on his tongue before he's even said it.] Perhaps... you, more than the original owner. "

[By no means is it the right decision, he knows, but how can he help it? Mukuro is someone he knows, has seen in a vulnerable state no demon normally appears in... It's a feeling that refuses logic.]

[The answer was rather shocking, and he had little reason to doubt his perfectly honest priest. Mukuro shot a small look at Chikusa Kakimoto, assessing him thoughtfully for a few heartbeats before dragging him into the cafe with good parfaits.

It was nice and warm, Mukuro peeling his scarf off almost immediately, and it smelled sweet.]

"You never fail to surprise me, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[Then, as if to reward him for the proper answer:]

"My host is most generous and sturdy. Every so often, he wishes to take control again and I allow him to do so."

[It would be best not to talk of why his host had allowed Mukuro to possess him in the first place, or why he was such a great fit for him. It was rare in this age that someone would wish to vehemently to murder their entire family, after all.

As for him, well.]

"My sleep schedule is still tiresome, but I may finally be getting used to it. But there are other bodily functions I find just as irksome."

[Hearing that statement still leaves Chikusa with a woeful lack of idea on what way he should respond. So he doesn't, instead just frowning to himself as they enter the cafe and he tugs on the edge of his hat doubtfully.]

"That's... surprising to hear. "

[In a way, Chikusa supposes he had imagined the whole deal as rather one way. The former inhabitant got something of theirs and in exchange, the demon took the entire body to keep. That there's some switching is... surprising, and leaves him on edge. Is there a third party viewing the moments between him and Mukuro?]

"If you stay in that body, you'll get used to them."

"Is it really? I've said before it's more of a symbiotic relationship than anything. We both benefit equally."

[He smiled politely at the waitress who seated them, sliding into the booth easily enough, sighing at the thought.]

"Not soon enough. So much time is already lost to sleep. The rest is just insult to injury."

[AKA the priest better appreciate the sacrifices that Mukuro had gone through in order to tap that.]

"In the long run, a full night's sleep keeps humans alive longer... So I've read. "

[Then again, he has no idea how long Mukuro will keep that body. A few more months? A year? As long as Chikusa doesn't discourage him? It's something to ponder... but maybe not right now, as he sits opposite of Mukuro and lets his stare linger on him before glancing down at the menu.]

"...You didn't have to put yourself through it all."

"This body will live a long healthy life, so you need not concern yourself with that Chikusa Kakimoto."

[Because being a demon in a human body still had some perks, even if it was still up for debate as to whether those perks made it worth it.

Since Mukuro had been here before, he already knew what he wanted, leaving him free to lean back in his seat and study the priest's expression with unabashed amusement.]

"But I wanted to. Perhaps you're not the only masochist here."

"I'm not a masochist. "

[The words leave his mouth, a bit stiff, before he really thinks about them, and his frown follows belatedly after. Probably... not the right thing to say, or at least not entirely truthful, and now he's probably going to end up having to talk about his sexual preferences in a cafe booth.]

[Or Mukuro is going to laugh at him.]

[Or both.]

[Definitely both, but first the laughter. Mukuro let out an harsh 'kufu' before he managed to hide the rest behind a hand, laughter muffled. If he was anyone else, he might have tossed his head back and pounded a hand on the table, but it was basically the same thing.

Once he had managed to collect himself, he tipped his gaze up to the priest's mouth curving wickedly.]

"What would you call yourself then, priest?"

"Someone who's trying to figure out what to order. "

[So stop laughing at him already. Definitely not sulking, he moves the menu up to hide behind it.]

[Still chuckling, Mukuro was going to lean forward, resting his elbows on the table as he pointed towards some of the things on the menu.]

"I've heard good things about their bread bowls and soup, if you're looking for something light."

[Completely innocently, he was going to nudge at the priest's feet with his own.]

[The lack of pursuit earns a slightly wary glance, but Chikusa lets himself be redirected as he looks at the options Mukuro is gesturing to.]

"I see... I've never tried one before. "

[A pause, and he raises an eyebrow at him while trying to nudge his feet away.]

I suppose I'll be present for a lot of your firsts then.

[It was said idly enough as Mukuro continued to nudge their feet together. The priest had probably never played footsies either, but he was fine with popping that cherry among others.]

"Please don't make me trying new food sound lewd. "

[And also if he could stop... whatever he's doing under the table, that'd be great too. When it becomes clear that Mukuro isn't going to, Chikusa thins his lips and draws his legs tight together and against his seat.]

"...What are you doing?"

"Is it wrong to like watching you try new things?"

[Because if Chikusa Kakimoto was a masochist, then Mukuro would definitely be considered a voyeur. As the priest should well know by now.

He paused in his ministrations when the priest asked the question, canting his head to the side.]

"Have you always been so serious priest? Were you never allowed to be a child or to have fun?"

[Because clearly not knowing what footsies were was a crime.]

"When you act strange about it, yes. "

[And by "strange", he means "creepy" or "perverted". Then again, considering Mukuro's everything, perhaps that's an impossible request to make for him to stop.]

[The demon's commentary makes him frown, not wanting to admit that his upbringing might have been a little... strict.]

"...I know how. I just didn't know this was something people did for fun. "

[And, really, should he trust a demon on this sort of thing? Well... He guesses it can't hurt. Enjoy the slow nudge at your calf, Mukuro.]

"Somehow, I find it highly unlikely if I acted normal that we would be sitting here, priest."

[Chikusa Kakimoto had been surrounded by fairly normal people his whole life, to the extent that Mukuro was bored just beginning to think of them. They hadn't been able to reach out to him, and it was very telling that it took the lengths that Mukuro had gone through to do so.

Instead of saying so, however, he only chuckled lightly at the priest's petulant pout, knocking their feet together with a small grin.]

"There's a lot of things people do for fun that you haven't been introduced to. [And before he could accuse him of sinful thoughts ( which were a constant, really ), Mukuro added:] Amusement parks, for example."

[...Chikusa supposes he can't argue with that, and just frowns at the table as he keeps kicking at Mukuro's feet.]

[Why? Why is this supposed to be fun? He legitimately isn't sure he understands here.]

"...I know how amusement parks work."

"But have you been to one and had fun?"

[The retort was whip quick, a stark contrast to Mukuro's leisurely knocking of their feet, the smirk on his face knowing and quiet.]

[The answer to that is obvious, but, good thing for Chikusa, that's around the time that the server comes over to take their orders. He uses this as a stall for at least a few minutes, although he doesn't have the dedication to drawing the exchange out, and doesn't speak for a few moments even after the server has left.]

"...It sounds as though you're trying to come up with date ideas."

[The appearance of the server didn't completely distract Mukuro from the conversation, watching the waitress politely enough, shooting amused looks at the priest in between ordering, instead using the time to gently trace his foot along Chikusa Kakimoto's calf.

The priest was as observant as ever, however, making Mukuro chuckle softly.]

"Just pointing out there are many ways and places to have fun. "

[He glanced up beneath his lashes, smirk sharp.]

"Should I consider this a date as well? If so, we're doing things a bit out of order."

"Don't be crude. "

[Another impossible request. What is he supposed to do? Well... Besides leave and never contact the demon again.]

[Which he should have done ages ago.]

[Instead of make tea for him, and paint something, and agree to this excursion...]

[It's a relief when his drink comes so he can wrap his hands around it and focus on something besides his own thoughts. He glances back up at Mukuro.]

"...Those were only dreams, besides. Ultimately, that's all they were."

"You know as well as I do priest, that this is far from crude. If that's how you're taking it, perhaps you should be going to a confessional instead of on an outing with me."

[Mukuro smirked, smug and triumphant, humming happily as he dug into his drink, a sugary confection that was once again topped generously with whipped cream and sprinkles. It was difficult to know if this was his sweet tooth, one of the few perks there was to being human, or if it was his host's.

It was interesting how the priest was trying to justify his actions, and Mukuro let out a low chuckle at that, lashes fluttering halfway shut.]

"Whatever you say, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[He might as well have said, 'they're not going to stay solely confined to dreams for long', but he hoped his leer and knowing smirk did that for him.]

"I look forward to when that changes. I haven't fully tested this body out."

[Which might be a lie.]

[Heat is burning at his jaw, his ears, and Chikusa loathes the reveal of emotion when more than anything he'd rather be a wall right now. Still, slowly, he takes a breath.

"I hear they make toys for that. Perhaps you'll find one that makes you happy. "

[And right after-]

"So, the exhibit a focus on biblical scenes?"

[Every once in a while, Mukuro forgot exactly why he had bothered to stuff himself into this uncomfortable and impractical mortal body, but then the priest was so quick and kind to remind him why he had done so. His eyes widened slightly at the comment, before he burst out laughing.

Don't think he was going to let that comment slide without saying anything about it, and he ignored the priest's clumsy attempt at derailing the topic.]

"My, my, Chikusa Kakimoto. How much of this have you researched and are you willing then to help me with these toys?"

[Because unfortunately the priest was the most amusing one he'd found in a long time.]

[One of these days. One of these days, he'll learn to not say anything, and drive the demon off from sheer boredom. However, it's clear the lesson hasn't taken yet, and Chikusa nearly burns holes into the menu from the force of his stare.]

"I'm sure you know more than me."

[His cute, apparently not so innocent, little priest. Mukuro smirked at him almost fondly, taking a sip of his drink as he watched with interest as the priest avoided his gaze.]

"It's not my knowledge that is of interest to me, but of yours. What else do you know?"

"Nothing I have any interest in telling you in a public restaurant. "

[With his best frigid stare in place, he glances back at the demon.]

"Please have some decor."

"So you'll tell me in private? "

[Mukuro tilted his head to the side, smirk wide and smug, one eyebrow raised. Because honestly, did the priest forget who he was asking to have some decor? Mukuro could pretend for the priest's sake, but only if he was properly bribed and placated.]

[Does this mean that Mukuro is basically like this 24/7 when Chikusa isn't looking? Horrifying.]

"...If it will keep you from making a scene in public, although I have no idea when we'll be in private together."

That answer only made Mukuro sigh softly, leaning back against his chair.]

"You have no idea? You weren't going to invite me over if this date went well? I'm hurt, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[Except he looked more on the verge of laughing.]

"Are you ready to order?"

"Inviting you over after seems troublesome. "

[Sure, the last time Mukuro nosed his way into Chikusa's house, it went... not horribly, but still. Pushing things seems like a recipe for disaster.]

[Sighing, he nods.]

"I am."

"Should I invite you over instead, my cute little priest?"

[He smirked knowingly, sure that Chikusa Kakimoto's protests were token at best, before flagging over the waitress to place an order. The bread bowl had sounded like a good way to warm up.]

"If it means spending the night again, I would have to get a change of clothes. "

[They hadn't had sex last time but, as far as he's concerned, it was still something of a walk of shame. As the waitress comes over, he gives his order quietly while trying to idly kick the demon's feet away from him.]

[It wasn't the response that Mukuro was expecting, and his eyes widened slightly as he straightened, gaze searching the priest's face fully. While he didn't believe the priest was thinking anything untoward, not yet anyway, but the fact that he was even willing to entertain the thought made Mukuro feel no shortage of smugness.

He even allowed the priest to kick his feet away, lips curling up slightly.]

"Should I get you a drawer and toothbrush as well?"

"I can store my own things in a bag, thank you. "

[If that is just slightly snippy, well, it's because he's glancing over the demon suspiciously. No doubt there's more atrocious thoughts going through his head again...]

"...What's that look for?"

[Atrocious thoughts that were only atrocious because of how into them the priest would be, right?

If anything, the question was only going to make Mukuro look that much more smug.]

"I'm surprised you're willing to come back into my lair of sin, priest. I would have thought once would have been enough to sate your curiosity."

[While the point is a good one, something he has to reluctantly admit, he still thins his lips.]

"Unless you've started carving unholy symbols into the walls of the apartment, it seemed to be a regular enough loft."

"It's inhabitant is anything but."

[It felt like a gamble, to continually goad the priest, but Mukuro was hoping that sticking himself into a mortal vessel had won him enough chips for now. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table leisurely as his eyes searched the priest's face.]

"In my weakened and vulnerable state, I was sure you would have done your duty. Why didn't you?"

[...There's nothing to say to that. It's true, after all, and he's known that from the start. For all that the vessel itself is human... The mind, the words, the home, those were all that of a demon. There's no way to forget.]

[So that question feels piercing, like an accusation for all that Chikusa knows that's his own upbringing yelling at him inside of his head. Certainly, a possession of this kind is something foreign to him and his usual methods of exorcism might not have worked... But a proper priest would have at least tried.]

[But... His fingers curl around his drink as he avoids making eye contact.]

"...I was curious."

"About what, Chikusa Kakimoto?"

[Surely no one can blame him for wanting to glean everything he can out of the stoic, still somewhat mysterious, priest. Especially when it concerned him. And perharps there was a part of him that wanted the priest to admit his attraction, even if he might not get it in so many words.

To counteract this thirst of his though, he made sure to take fortifying sips from his overly sugary drink, eyes still on the priest's face.]

[For a second, it appears as though there's a very good chance that he won't say anything. The cup gets drawn closer, and his head bows just a fraction more.]

[There's no use in denying it, he knows. By this point, he's had numerous chances to cut this off, at least be more forceful in keeping the demon away, but instead this is where he is. On what's practically a date.]

[Eventually, however, he forces himself to confess.]

"Why you're attempting so hard... and... if there's anything that can really convince me..."

[Now that caught Mukuro's interest, his gaze sharpening. He left his sugary concoction alone, leaning forward with an almost predatory baring of his teeth.]

"You already know why I'm working so diligently priest. "

[But more importantly:]

"What would it take to convince you?"

[Immediately, the demon earns a disapproving look.]

"That's what you should figure out, tempter that you are, and preferably while we're not in public. "

That disapproving look was only going to be met with the most innocent ( meaning, not at all ) look Mukuro could muster, and he went back to taking a few sips out of his drink.]

"It never hurts you to be generous, priest. "

[Still, Mukuro will let it slide for a bit when their food comes out, and happily he started digging in. They still had that art exhibition to look at, and Mukuro was curious as to what the priest might have to say about it.]

[Still, Chikusa is glad when the food serves as a distraction, focusing on his own meal. He's mostly finished when he glances up again.]

"...You never did answer me about the exhibition."

Mukuro raised an eyebrow at that prompting, closing his eyes to try to recall what the question had been about.]

"Yes, it focuses on scenes from the Bible. Or was there something else?"

[Either way he was going to be enjoying his food.]

"What do you think?"

[He pointed with a spoon towards what the priest had ordered, looking mildly interested in the answer.]

"No, that's it.... It's an interesting choice, coming from you. "

[He's still not sure what to actually expect, but he supposes he'll see when they get to that part. Blinking, he glances down at his meal, mostly down to the bread now.]

"Ah- It's good."

"I'm curious to know your thoughts on such paintings and it's always good for a diversion."

[He smiled innocently enough, watching as the priest ate.]

"I'm glad you enjoyed it. Can I try some of yours then?"

[For some reason, that makes him suspicious... There's nothing for it, he supposes. He may as well keep going. In response to the question, he shrugs and nudges the bread bowl forward.]

"There's not much of the soup left, but if you want..."

Mukuro can behave himself, despite what the other man might think, just tearing off a piece to dip into the soup, humming thoughtfully as he tried it. If he made a small production out of licking his fingers clean, it didn't mean anything.]

"If you're done, should we be on our way?"

[Ignoring any productions Mukuro may or may not be making, Chikusa goes for his wallet, making sure to leave a tip on the table.]

"I'm ready. It's not far, right?"

"Not at all."

[But he did go to wave aside the priest's money, expression lofty.]

"I'm the one who invited you out. It only makes sense that I pay."

"...Even for a tip? "

[Not that he's complaining as he takes back what he'd put down.]

"Well, if you'd like to give me your tip..."

[Look sometimes the priest made it too easy okay. Who was he to pass that one up?

Instead of waiting for a reaction, however, he paid quickly, wrapping his clothes back tighter around himself and picking up the folder. After tucking it securely under his arm, he offered his other one to the priest.]

"Shall we?"

[Some days, you just bristle like a Ghibli character, and Chikusa suspects it happens right then before the demon rushes off. The result leaves him absolutely not sulking as he trails after him, burrowing into his coat and leveling a dead eyed stare at Mukuro.]

"I suppose."