eternal sin 9

[warmskies]

started from here

[Oh well if it was a Ghibli reaction then Mukuro would be disappointed he missed it. Instead, he turned back to face him with a small smirk, taking hold of the priest's hand to tug him along.

The museum was a good sized building, old, but neat and tidy. There was already a small crowd perusing all the paintings and exhibits, which ranged from sculptures to some mixed media. It was rather quiet, all conversation a low buzzing than an actual roar, and Mukuro followed along with some of the people in front of them, glancing over everything with interest.]

[He almost trips over his own feet from surprise, not expecting to be grabbed, but gets his balance again quickly enough as he quietly followed. He looks around as well, not sure if he should feel as though he fits in or out of his depth. Sure, he's made efforts to go out more, but it's always been on his own. Being accompanied by someone feels... different, somehow.]

[Even if that someone is a demon. Perhaps especially then, actually.]

[None of his thoughts show, however, especially as they start to explore the museum proper, and he lingers when he can sometimes if a particular piece has caught his eye.]

[It might be sheer impudence or simply because he wanted to test how far he could push the priest, but he didn't let go of his hand the whole way, even if it meant pausing in front of paintings he had no interest in. He offered enlightening comments like, 'it wasn't like that at all, there was more screaming and crying' or 'Mary was far prettier than this artist is giving her credit for', but he did tend to fall silent at anything depicting the fall of angels, merely scoffing and trying to tug the priest away.]

"What do you think so far, priest?"

[They were about halfway through the exhibit, and Mukuro was ready to go home to take a nap or perhaps prod the priest a bit more.]

[As much as he would like to completely tune out the demon, well aware of his peanut gallery tendencies and compulsive lying... He can't help but listen when he makes comments on artwork, taking note of them to comb through later. It's rare to get a demon's thoughts on mundane things like artwork or history; they're rarely so cooperative when Chikusa is called to exorcise them.]

[That means he takes note of particular silences, too, but, in turn, he makes no comment about that.]

[All the crowds are starting to bother him as well, however, when the demon speaks up, and he pulls his eyes away from a picture of Moses to look to him.]

"It's... nice. More than I was expecting from you, honestly."

"You're always so harsh on me, priest."

[Though he doesn't sound too offended, considering the fact that the priest was still allowing... whatever this was to continue was more than Mukuro had thought possible. He had thought between him being a demon, the possession, and the constant lying would have deterred the priest, but here they are.

He turned his wry gaze back to the priest, looking put out.]

I am more than capable of behaving, even though it's a temptation not to.

"...And it ultimately doesn’t do you any good on a physical level. "

[He remembers the dreams… The demon’s need to clean himself after too much good deeds. Meeting the demon’s gaze, he raises an eyebrow.]

"So does that mean I can’t expect you to stay acting like this for long?"

"Isn't the physical all you care about when it comes to me? It can't be my soul."

[Or his personality, but Mukuro was under the delusion he was hot shit so why should that be mentioned?

Mukuro only chuckled at the question, steering the priest towards the next exhibit, giving it an uninterested glance.]

"I'll behave so long as I have incentive to, as you should know better than anyone else Chikusa Kakimoto."

[And, for this, the incentive is... Glancing over the next bit of art they pass but not really seeing it, he takes in a breath.]

"And you won't get bored?"

"Not even if you wanted me to."

[Mukuro gave the priest a sly, knowing look, stepping off the beaten path so that the crowd was lessened around them, but they were still out in the open. It was intimate enough for conversation, but not for much else. Well, at least not if the priest was the deciding factor.]

"Haven't I told you before? You're more likely to get bored than me."

[There’s a quiet glance around as Mukuro guides him away from other people, but he doesn’t draw anymore attention to it than that. He prefers it, anyway…. Although it’s worrying to him that he can’t tell if it’s just because of his nature or because he prefers to keep the demon away from other people and at his side.]

"And if I never did?"

[My my, how interesting. Mukuro was surprised that the priest would even admit that out loud, much less now, when he had been so adamant about not giving into him. Still, Mukuro wouldn't complain, leaning in closer, mouth curving up.]

"Then I could keep my promise to you."

[Aka that he'd never be alone, which wasn't really that romantic when it was a demon saying it but ayyy.]

["If" is the pin he uses to keep keep his justifications held together. "If" is a hypothetical, curiosity, nothing but thoughts. He tells himself that, even as the demon leans in close, mismatched eyes seeming to trap light in them. Squaring his shoulders, he looks away.]

"Was there a particular exhibit you planned on leading me to or are you just getting away from the crowds?"

[What a disappointing, but not unexpected, response. Mukuro supposed just the question being posed was sign that progress was being made, and for once, decided not to press it. He leaned back fully onto his heels, before turning to head down a less traveled corridor.]

"There was one piece I am wanted to get your opinion on."

[It was a few pieces away, but he stopped in front of a massive painting depicting the fall of Lucifer, tilting his head to the side.

The painting was one that was grotesquely realistic, with wings being torn off of demons, god ( a bearded male of course, how original ) looking upon the carnage from his holy throne, hell a fiery pit of misery beneath them. It was already full of demons suffering, and while it wasn't exactly right, it was close enough to make Mukuro feel some sort of homesickness.]

"What do you think?"

[One piece in particular... Curiosity snared, Chikusa follows along and doesn't let himself get distracted even in passing by any of the other works. A raised eyebrow gets directed his way before he takes in the enormous painting.]

[It's... certainly not what he would have first pinged for the demon, although now he wonders why. Perhaps it's because he's been so convincing, nothing but mockery when he batted the idea around of redemption. Thus, why draw attention to what some would say is one of the birthplaces of demons? A ploy for sympathy, boredom?]

[He looks over the painting carefully, something which takes no small amount of time considering its size.]

"...Artistically... That kind of dedication to a picture full of such detail is impressive. It takes a lot of stamina to stick to something on this level, and the lighting is suitably striking for something so dramatic. The subject matter itself, I suppose I can't find surprising."

[For once, Mukuro was silent as the priest took his time taking in the painting, switching between searching his face to looking at the crowd around them. His gaze never traveled away for long, and patiently waiting for the judgement.]

"I agree. The artist is very talented. I'm curious if they take commissions."

[He wondered briefly if the priest would be offended by such a statement, but he tightened his grip subtly on the he was carrying as if to quell any complaints beforehand.

The response about the subject matter was lukewarm, though he supposed there was no point in pressing the point further.]

"No, I suppose not. Did you want to see the rest of the exhibit?"

[He was already turning to leave, in any case.]

"I've had my fill of people for today. "

[Besides, there are things on his mind. However, he keeps them quiet and tucked away inside his head. It's only when they're back in the daylight and the crowds aren't so thick does he let the words slip out.]

"Do you miss it?"

"My, my, that eager to get me alone, are you?"

[It was more teasing than actual insinuation, and Mukuro headed back outside, wondering if he should bid good-bye to the priest once they were outside. He seemed to be in an odd mood, and given that they'd spent a good portion of the day together, it might be in his best interest to leave the priest be.

So the question caught him off guard, and for a moment Mukuro wasn't even sure how to answer it.]

"It's only a place. Most wouldn't find it pleasant in the least."

[But it was where he'd spent numerous centuries, and it had only been a few weeks since he'd last been back. He canted his gaze to the side, smirking slightly at the priest.]

"Curious?"

"I'm curious about many things. "

[...So, yes.]

[That smirk has him frown back, distrustful of what it represents on the demon's face. There are a lot of reasons to be curious, as far as he's concerned.... but maybe that's too much information to give to a demon.]

[It was that unimpressed face that would get Mukuro to be honest, well aware of the tight rope he should be walking in order to keep and gain more of the priest's affections while balancing out his own terrible impulses and personality.

He paused for a few moments, gaze resting on Chikusa Kakimoto's face before turning away.]

"It hasn't been long enough for me to miss it, except for the warmth there. I can't seem to generate enough body heat."

[Hence all the layers. And it seemed like the priest enjoyed it when Mukuro displayed weakness to him, so display 'weaknesses' he would.]

[If he were to hear that observation, Chikusa would no doubt be puzzled. Weakness is a thing he hears again and again in his line of work: from learning how a victim of possession came to be in their situation sometimes of their own fault to the countless confessions he must listen to and forgive. Is that something he really wants in his personal life?]

[But then… It can’t truly be a surprise. The confessions of people aren’t for him. As a priest, he’s merely a channel for their sins to be heard and for holy forgiveness to be felt.]

[Every bit of knowledge, whether demonic or personal, that the demon slips him… Maybe it has left him ravenous, to be given something that has to do with him instead of his duty.]

"Do you find warmth in your own form, then?"

"Yes. But I hear that humans have their own ways of generating body heat together."

[He shot the priest a sly look, before taking a few steps away from him, folder still clutched close to his side. His gaze was assessing for a few moments before he gave a small, pleased smile.]

"Thank you for coming out today, Chikusa Kakimoto. I wasn't expecting you to."

[Well, it was an interesting conversation while it lasted, and he purses his lips together. Ending the day on a non-sexual note is too much to ask for, apparently.]

[To have things suddenly change, the demon observing him carefully and giving thanks, is a twist he wasn't expecting. Chikusa stares back, blinking in clear surprise, before he ducks his head down.]

"...I was the one who contacted you in the first place... I wouldn't waste my time setting up a meeting merely to not show up. Besides, it's simply me being selfish..."

[Look, Mukuro has a one track mind about some things, also if he wasn't shamelessly hitting on Chikusa Kakimoto, who would? Clearly he had to take one for the team.

That response was interesting, Mukuro canting his head to the side in sharp eyed focus, turning back to face him fully.]

"I find your selfishness charming, then. Are you going to continue being selfish and ask for more of my time or should I leave teasing you for another day?"

[He shifts, as if debating on moving away but ultimately staying where he is, hands going to hide in his pockets.]

"If you mean right now, aren't you tired of being out and around already?"

"It's so kind of you to worry about my condition, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[It was said with only the bare minimum amount of mockery, Mukuro's lips curved slightly upwards. He glanced around them, at the thickening crowds, before tugging his scarf tighter around his neck to ward against the chill.]

"We could go somewhere more private, if you're not opposed. My place or yours?"

"It's a sensible question to ask someone who's only been in a body for a short amount of time. "

[Or, at least, relatively. Whatever the demon's age, surely being in a human body pales in comparison to it, right?]

[Shrugging his shoulders up, Chikusa glances around. Once again, it seems like a dangerous invitation, but... He was right.]

[He wants to see if he can be convinced.]

"...Mine. [His eyes glance back to him.] ...Besides, if you do anything untowards.... It's a satisfying thought that I could have you kicked out...."

[It would have been far too easy to make more insinuations about how interested in his body the priest was being, but since he seemed wearily ready to spend more time with Mukuro, he would do his best to continue to behave. All he did was shoot the priest an amused look, but his mouth was kept shut for once.

Not that it lasted long, since he let out a small laugh as he took a few steps so he could stand in front of the priest, tipping his face back up to smirk at him.]

"I wasn't the one to get me out of my clothes, was I?"

[Having that whole incident has Chikusa's eyes shy away. It's not something he's forgotten, even if it had happened months ago. While it's by far not the most scandalous thing Mukuro has ever done, it'd still been hard to avoid thinking about it.]

"You say that as though it were in a sexual way..."

"So your thoughts were pure the whole time?" [Mukuro feigned some surprise, before grabbing back onto the priest's hand, smiling up at him to distract him.] "Should we take your car as well? Lead the way."

[The way his lips twitch probably gives away that, no, some of his thoughts weren't really that pure, so he's almost glad for the chance in subject. Wordlessly, he ducks his head in a nod before turning and starting to tug Mukuro along the streets.]

[Parking in the more populated parts of the city makes it difficult sometimes to find a decent parking spot but, thankfully, parking garages make it easier. At the same time, the emptiness of the place filled with only cars make it all the harder for Chikusa to not pay the demon or his closeness any mind.]

[Hopefully Mukuro isn't expecting his car to be anything fancy. He's a priest, not a millionaire CEO.]

[Too easy in some things, his cute little priest. Mukuro didn't bother hiding his smug smile, but didn't comment as he followed along after the priest. It was curious at how easily the priest accepted these small, almost innocent touches from him without complaint, but words he treated as if they were curses. Though perhaps that's what Mukuro's suggestions were, phantoms that haunted the priest when he least wanted them to.

If Chikusa Kakimoto was expecting anything from Mukuro, he wouldn't be disappointed.]

"Should my next act of kindness be to donate to the church?"

[Though it was better than the bus, at any rate.]

"Charity wouldn’t go to getting me a new car."

[Well. Some priests, he knows, do that. However, Chikusa likes to think himself a proper priest who needs little.]

[...How accurate that title of propriety is when he’s going on outtings like this with a frighteningly powerful and tempting demon is… possibly up for debate.]

"If you’re going to complain, get a car of your own."

"My, my, so stalwart in everything you do."

[It was both admirable and irritating. Though, if Chikusa Kakimoto was so susceptible to sin and temptation, Mukuro wouldn't have had to don this mortal body in order to get closer to him.

He waved a hand breezily as if to shoo away the priest's rude retort, getting into the car easily enough.]

"No thank you. The bus makes for an entertaining ride."

"No, just sensible. "

[It’s a dry answer as he settles into the driver’s seat, turning on the ignition. After all, his words are merely fact. There are a lot of things the church could use money for, and his salary is last on the list.]

[But that’s his excuse. As he starts to get them out of the parking garage, he glances curiously at Mukuro.]

"...It’s strange to imagine you on a bus."

[There was an easy barb that Mukuro could make about the priest's 'sensibility' but considering Chikusa Kakimoto was still spending time with him, and even taking him home, Mukuro could behave. But that didn't stop him from grinning over at the priest, mouth quirked up knowingly.

He made sure to settle his painting delicately across his lap as he buckled in, shrugging carelessly.]

"In this form, I have limited modes of transportation. Besides, it can be rather illuminating about humanity to people watch."

[Also he couldn't drive to save his life but ssh ssh.]

"Coming from you, I feel as though I should be uneasy from what comes out of your people watching. "

[After all, it seemed like he was watching him for quite some time before making a move for interaction. So. Some justifiable cause for concern. Keeping his eyes on the road, Chikusa considers something.]

"So that’s another thing that’s still interesting for you..."

"It's nothing I haven't done before. It's just more up close than I'm accustomed to."

[He watched the priest's face, unhindered now that his attention was elsewhere, admiring the smoothness of his skin, the delicate column of his neck, and his hands steady on the steering wheel. The few times Mukuro had tried to get behind the wheel of a vehicle had ended up disastrously, yet the priest does it so effortlessly. Mukuro would be jealous if he wasn't enjoying the private space in the car, their own little world encased in metal.]

"Are you jealous priest? There's no need to be. There are none who have caught my interest like you have."

"Did I say I have that kind of problem with it?"

[Even if it makes his grip tighten on the steering wheel, his heart fluttering with longing. Once again, the demon tells him the kind of things he wants to hear. With every repetition of those words, they seem to work on him better and better. Truly, he must be weak, to fall prey to a demon saying such things even when he knows better.]

"My only concern are as a priest, wondering if you’re tempting more people into sin."

"Do you believe you need to say it for me to know it? Just because my senses are dulled like this doesn't mean I've completely forgotten how to read you."

[If it was said slightly smug, well, Mukuro had earned that right. He had spent a great deal of time studying Chikusa Kakimoto after all, and for someone who tried so hard to be difficult to read, it only made the slight changes in his expression that much more obvious.

Slyly, he reached over to brush a hand against the priest's knee, smirking.]

"So you're suggesting I should refocus all my efforts to drag only you into temptation? How noble."

[Being suddenly touched has his leg jerk, the car speeding up by a hair before he hastily corrects himself. His jaw is clenched as he steadfastly refuses to look at the demon, keeping his eyes focused straight ahead.]

"Not while I’m driving..."

"Then when we make it to your apartment, priest?"

[It was purred out low and heady, Mukuro's eyes sharpening with interest. He retracted the hand, though his gaze never left the priest's face.]

"Are you trying to say you didn't plan on starting anything like that if you could from the start? "

[At least he can breathe, now, although his skin still feels like it's tingling from where the demon had touched him. It's deplorable, really, how much he can still so clearly remember his more indecent touches against his body.]

[That retort was enough to get a small chuckle out of Mukuro, and he canted his head to the side, letting his hair spill over his shoulder lazily as he kept his gaze fixated on the priest.]

"I've been rather honest with my intentions priest. Yet, even though you know them, you invited me somewhere we can be alone. "

[He lowered his voice and his lashes, smirking up at the priest in amusement.]

So the real question is this: do you desire the same thing I do or are you just that confident in the invincibility of your control and morals?"

[Somehow, despite being in a fragile mortal body and having not done any harm to him since the moment they first met, the demon seems more dangerous like this: voice low and smooth, the weight of his stare threatening to drag Chikusa down, and he can imagine the look on his face even without glancing to him.]

[Dangerous because of how tempting he is, not the harm he can do.]

"I thought I made it clear… [Coming to a red light, he finally looks back to Mukuro, chin tipped downwards so that he can look up at the demon from beneath his bangs.] Whatever desires I might have don’t matter. "

"Kufufu, of course they matter, my cute little priest."

[He lifted a knuckle to his mouth as if to muffle the sound of his laughter, Mukuro's mismatched gaze meeting the priest's evenly.]

"Haven't I said over and over again that I have a vested interest in them? Have more care for your own wants, or let me know them so I can take care of them."

[His wants… Swallowing, he tears his eyes away to look back up at the streetlights. He knows what he wants, and he’s certain the demon knows too for all their playing. He wants to be touched, to be claimed, and to be kept.]

[Against all sense and training, he wants the creature sitting besides him, and he wants to be wanted in return.]

"I've been taking care of them well enough, I imagine."

"Oh? And your touches alone are satisfying?"

[Because let's be real, if the priest was going to accuse him of only having dirty thoughts, Mukuro was more than willing to oblige him.

He watched the priest's face with keen interest, no doubt remembering the last time that Chikusa Kakimoto had been on full display before him, flushed and wanting as he had pleasured himself.]

[At first, he opens his mouth, fully prepared to say that he can manage on his own just fine- his own touches have been pleasurable enough, haven’t they? On the occasions he’s given into that temptation?]

[But… Slowly, his lips close again, and his fingers grip the steering wheel tightly again. That would be a lie… There’s always been something lacking: a hot breath against his throat, a pressure along his body, and, most of all, the feel of lips stealing his breath away.]

[Shame in every inch of him, he shakes his head as the light changes and he tries to put his attention back to the road.]

[That small shake of his head was barely discernable, but to Mukuro, it was enough to get the blood in his borrowed body flowing sharply and quickly, his heart racing. Chikusa Kakimoto might as well have gone to the top of the mountains to shout he was ready to be claimed and taken, and Mukuro wasn't one to deny himself or someone else a chance to sin.]

"What do you want me to do to you when we get home?"

[It was purred out soft and slow, but Mukuro's eyes were burning as he leaned forward, careful not to touch the priest just yet, but just barely restraining himself.]

[Mukuro’s voice is as bad as any touch he could lay on him, the mere sound of it drawing slowly up his spine like a teasing finger. There’s a road in front of him, Chikusa knows, but he can’t truly see it at all. Only habit and instinct keeps him straight and obeying the law as his heartbeat pounds in his ears..]

"You know… I didn’t agree to anything. "

[It’s weak even to his ears; he must sounds pathetic to another’s. Faltering. He swallows, feeling like a rock is being pushed through his throat.]

"A- a kiss."

[While it might seem like it’s back to basics for the demon, well… It had been his first brush of sin. The first thing that had made him moan.]

[Even though Mukuro's senses were blunted in this deplorable vessel, he could practically taste the priest's arousal, the beating thrum of his heart like the organ was in his mouth. Smirking, he didn't bother to argue with the priest about what he had agreed to or not, and his silence was aptly rewarded.

His eyes sharpened when Chikusa Kakimoto put in his request. As meager and small as it might be, it was a large step from the man who hadn't wanted to touch him or be around him just weeks prior. Mukuro would take his victories while he could and eek out a mile out of an inch.]

"Anything you want, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[It was said softly, Mukuro leaning back in his seat, satisfied for now, and slightly impatient to get back to the priest's apartment.]

[His eyes don’t see the roads back to his apartment, and his ears are deaf to everything but his heart and Mukuro’s deceivingly quiet voice. That he doesn’t get into a wreck feels like a miracle all its own, leaving him safe to park his car and go up the steps leading to his home. The entire time, he’s far too aware of the demon’s presence behind him, and his morals wage war against his own desires with each step.]

[He shouldn’t do this. He told himself he wouldn’t. The demon only wants to corrupt him, to drag him to hell.]

[And yet. And yet.]

[Automatically, he pulls out his keys and unlocks the door to his apartment, feeling his heart in his throat as he steps inside. Mukuro only needs to follow before the door is being hastily shoved shut behind him, and Chikusa’s fingers are digging into his arms as he steps closer.]

"Only this. "

[A desperate rasp of a murmur, before he leans in to catch his lips in his own.]

[If Mukuro hadn't been aware of his own limits in this body, he might have thought that he would have bewitched or possessed Chikusa Kakimoto for the trance-like state he seemed to enter just from that simple statement. Unwilling to break the moment, Mukuro kept surprisingly silent as they made their way back to the priest's home. He followed behind him as carefully and close as a shadow, practically tasting the tension thrumming through the priest, resisting the urge to lean forward and bite at his throat as if to swallow the rapid pulse of his beating heart.

Before Mukuro could even smirk or laugh in pleased victory, Chikusa Kakimoto's mouth was on his, the door pressing solidly against his back. Eagerly, Mukuro met his kiss, hands coming up to cup the priest's face almost tenderly, blood roaring in his ears. All of his careful work, his sacrifices, and patience seemed to finally be paying off. If nothing else, at least the priest was being honest with his desires.]

[All it takes is that touch, and it’s as though his body goes boneless, melts. How pathetic, even he has to admit, that he falls apart so smoothly and easily at the mere gesture of those hands cradling his face.]

[But… He’s wanted this. To be touched so intimately and carefully. Nothing like it has ever compared, and he’s been starving for it. Not since the demon first did it, either, but longer. No one has touched him like this for all his life, and, God help him, but he’s desperate for it. Nothing else compares to the pressure of Mukuro’s hands at his jaw or the warm slide of their lips against one another.]

[For all the time that’s passed, Chikusa still remembers the lessons he was taught. He’s clumsy with his kiss, yes, but he remembers as he attempts to press his tongue into Mukuro’s mouth in search of that way which sends fire down his spine.]

[Kissing the priest in reality was far different than doing so in dreams, in a borrowed body. In dreams, Mukuro had perfect control over his environment, his corporeal body, and most importantly, his own reactions.

Trapped in this prison of flesh, Mukuro was also prisoner to this body's reactions, to having his senses overwhelmed past the point of his control. The desperation in the priest's kiss was enough to stir fire in his blood, eating through his body as if he was made out of tinder.

Moaning, Mukuro opened his mouth eagerly for the priest's clumsy tongue, dragging him in closer, wedging a thigh between the priest's legs and arching up into him. The kiss was satisfying, but it wasn't enough, not nearly enough, and Mukuro didn't want to stop until he was good and properly satisfied.]

[Feeling pressure between his legs sends sparks crackling up his spine, and Chikusa gasp against the demon’s mouth. Already, he can feel his self control wavering, the longing in his chest curling tighter, and he tries to pull himself away from those tempting lips.]

"Just- a kiss. "

[Even if he wants more. Even if he hasn’t stepped away to lessen that leg against his crotch. Even if all he can think about is that encounter in their dreams, Mukuro’s teeth at his throat.]

[The priest drawing away wasn't unexpected, but it irritated Mukuro all the same, the loss of his warmth and his lips almost a physical blow. He leaned in closer, so that their lips were almost touching again, but not quite, lashes lowered.]

"Are you sure that's all you want from me, Chikusa Kakimoto? When we both know I can give you so much more?"

[As if to accentuated his point, he raised his leg slightly, applying more friction.]

[Curse the flesh’s weakness- curse his own weakness as he visibly has to bite down on his lip to fight back the moan that threatens to rise out of his chest as Mukuro grinds his leg up against the bulge steadily growing inside his pants. His hands pulls away from him, grinding up against the wood of his door as he tries to find restraint within himself.]

"This… isn’t like the dreams. "

[He squeezes his eyes shut, breath unsteady against those lips he can feel brushing against him.]

"I’ll be stained… "

"Kufufu is that your only complaint? It's easy enough to avoid."

[If that was all, then it was easily surmounted. Still chuckling lightly, he reversed their positions, pressing the priest against the wood door delicately with one gloved hand. Then, eyes not leaving the priest's, he slid downward, before he was kneeling completely, a position that Chikusa Kakimoto should be familiar with.

He had gotten distracted last time from his task, and while he couldn't promise that he would be able to complete it this time, he was certainly fine with trying his best. Delicately, waiting for the priest to tell him to stop, he started to help him out of his clothes.]

[He blinks in confusion at the reassurance, off balance enough to be twisted back against the doorway. For a second, he doesn’t understand, but then the demon is smirking at him as he slides to his knees and oh.]

[Chikusa’s face blazes red, even as his mouth twists slightly.]

"I was thinking more along the lines of my immortal soul, you realize. "

[...But he’s still not stopping him, fingers curling against his palms and lightly grinding against the door at his back.]

[Ah, there it was. Mukuro had missed that adorable flush on the priest's features, finding that it suited him more than anything else. Except perhaps, for those endearingly adorable hats.

The talk of souls was only met with a small huff of laughter as Mukuro slid Chikusa's clothes off, pressing a light kiss against his thigh, and then a bite, repeating the pattern along the patch of exposed skin leisurely.]

"You don't think there are some there already?"

[After all, souls and dreams were ephemeral.]

[A notable bulge had already been pressing out against his pants, and Chikusa gasps softly as his arousal is freed from those tight confines, mostly hard and tip just faintly wet. As much as a part of him wants to look away, at least deny what sin he’s letting himself be tugged into… His eyes stay focused right down on the demon as his breath flows along his skin, sending tremors up his spine.]

"Then… That’s all the more reason to stop you- "

[Teeth, digging into his flesh, soft marks left behind, and Chikusa covers his mouth to muffle the way his voice strangles itself in his own throat. Again, he can feel his legs growing weak, twitching with every soft kiss and punishing nip.]

"I hate how you do this…"

[A muffled murmur that slips past his defenses.]

"You can stop this at any time, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[It was only an illusion of a choice, though. Mukuro knew as well as the priest that the last thing that would happen would be either of them stopping, and he felt confident in making that hollow offer.

Though just in case- Gently, he lapped his tongue against the tip of Chikusa Kakimoto's cock, watching his face intently.]

"It doesn't seem like you hate it too much."

[He pressed his hands against either side of the priest's thin hips, starting to tease his tongue down the underside of his dick, taking his time and watching for the priest's reactions.]

"I’ve told you- "

[A soft gasp, and his spine arches closer to the heat of Mukuro’s mouth. This is so much worse, he thinks, than in the dream where the demon had sucked at him through the fabric of his underwear. While the friction of cloth combined with wet heat had been maddening in its own way, it’d still been a barrier.]

[Now there’s nothing in the way of his damnably clever tongue, able to tease him more accurately than before, and he bites down on his tongue to try and hold himself back until he feels like he can speak again.]

"My body wants what it wants…. I can’t stop it…."

[While Mukuro wanted nothing more than to have Chikusa Kakimoto beg him to bring him off, to admit that it wasn't just his body that wanted this, to make him cum over and over again, Mukuro would pick and choose his battles wisely. Or perhaps, just getting this far was enough, more than what he expected, and sooner.

To reward the priest for not stopping him, instead of mocking or taunting him, he swallowed his cock down wholly, upper lip brushing against the priest's stomach. There was a light taste of sweat, salt, and skin, more real and tangible than in the dream. It made him moan softly for reasons he couldn't articulate, heat flooding through his veins. While he was sure many would find the position and the act beneath them, Mukuro found it somewhat short sighted. Like this, he had all the power to engulf the priest in pleasure, and he could do so at his leisure.

He draw back, almost letting the head of Chikusa Kakimoto's dick fall from his mouth before swallowing it back all down again, repeating the action slowly.]

[Oh God-]

[Short sharp sucks full of wet heat, teasing flicks of a firm tongue like fingers tugging at the strings holding his self control together- those are bad enough. Even with the way he’s teased himself, even with the way the demon has teased him in the past… It’s nothing compared to this.]

[Out of nowhere, every bit of him from the base to his horrifically sensitive tip is engulfed in a tight, sucking heat, breath gusting against his skin, and Chikusa almost crumples completely to the ground. It’s nothing short of a miracle that keeps him up on his own two fight, fingers scrambling around the door knob to keep him upright, and he’s crying out in unrestrained pleasure as his mind washes out from the overwhelming sensation of it all.]

[When his eyes clear again, he’s bent over the demon, his other hand now tangled in that long hair instead of muffling his mouth- whether in anticipation of pulling him away or closer, he can’t ascertain.]

"M… Mukuro- "

[He whines a the demon starts to swallow him up again, body quaking, and he has to gasp his words out.]

"Too- it’s too much, lord, it’s too much- "

[If Mukuro had any sort of decency, he might have let Chikusa Kakimoto go or slowed down. As it was, the sound of the priest coming undone above him was a heady noise, and Mukuro wanted to draw out all of them. Hearing the priest's completely unselfconscious and unrestrained cries of pleasure went straight to his groin, and he couldn't help but moan in response, the noise muffled.

It was definitely louder when the priest entangled his hand in his hair, heat spearing him straight through the gut, and Chikusa Kakimoto's words fell on deaf ears. Instead, Mukuro dug his fingers into the priest's hips as he drew him closer, not stopping in his slow, agonizing draw of his lips as he moved back. His eyes remained on the priest's surprisingly expressive face, wondering how long the mortal would last and if he would have enough time to get himself off during that time.]

[Of course. It’s foolish to expect mercy from a demon. Yet he can’t reprimand himself, not when the demon moans and the vibrations of it travel all along the length of him, sending sparks off behind his eyes.]

[Too much. It’s too much.]

[Mismatched eyes focused on him and only him, wrapped up in the throes of impossible pleasure, seem to undo him even worse. He can’t even restrain himself, can’t hold back, no matter that he’s being watched, and god but the way those lips look as he drags his mouth back up his cock… Chikusa whimpers, fingers tightening. He’s going to come, he can feel it, pulsing in the pit of him-]

Mukuro-sama! [One last desperate plea falls out of his mouth, the only thing he can think to do.] Please- I’m coming- I can’t-

[Can’t hold on? Can’t do this? He himself doesn’t even know.]

[It was a good thing that Mukuro came to terms with being a horrible demonic entity a long time ago, because hearing that pleading cry come from the priest's lips was enough to make him swallow up the priest whole once again without any other provocation. He was sure it had to do with control, the fact that the priest so often denied calling him what he was. It also might have to do with the fact that he just liked hearing the priest call out his name, desperate and wanting. Sometimes not everything had to be a complicated desire, he supposed.

Teasingly, he flicked his tongue over the head of the priest's cock, before swallowing him down fully, ready to take whatever the priest dished out.]

[All that goes through his frazzled undone mind is how unfair he was, to swallow him up again so greedily- and then his release shatters through him, a burst of ecstasy that has his voice die in his throat and his fingers dig in tighter to hold the demon right where he is while his comes straight down into his ravenous throat.]

[The first time in ages since he’s properly orgasmed… Ever since he had first cut things off with the demon- tried to- he’d done his best to hold himself back from that. Often he wasn’t successful in restraining himself when it came to pleasuring his sinful body, but he always did his best to stop it before he tumbled over the edge.]

[For a second, as he comes down from orgasm with his head full of a pleasant haze, he wonders why.]

[Breathing in shaky breaths, he tries to tug the demon away from him as he slumps back against the door.]

"You’re… despicable… "

[Regrettably, Mukuro's gag reflexes had been as well-trained as Mukuro would have hoped, and the priest's tightening hold on him left him no choice but to swallow and swallow in large gulps. The taste of salt was nearly overpowering, and as soon as the priest released him, he licked at the sides of his mouth for any that had escaped his mouth, watching Chikusa Kakimoto's face. He had hoped he would have been louder when he came, but that cute flush and sex glazed look in his eyes suited him fine as well.

He gave the priest the space that he needed, slowly straightening up from his knees, smirking.]

"You didn't seem to protest too much, priest. Tea?"

[With how the priest was right now, he doubted he would reciprocate, so Mukuro was fine with taking care of it himself in the bathroom later or when he got home.]

[He didn’t protest, he knows, but, still. Glancing away and trying to tug his coat over his limp cock to hide it, Chikusa takes another deep breath. Right in the entrance of his home… God, but he can only hope that his neighbors didn’t hear.]

"You can still act so casual after something like that… "

[Still, tea, somehow, seems like a familiar anchor in this moment. Maybe because it calls to him so many other times before in the dreams, the demon teasing him with a smug expression and his body still flushed with desire.]

[He…. shouldn’t make a habit of this. Chikusa tries to tell himself of that, and somehow doesn’t grimace at the realization that he’s gone and truly broken his vows.]

"Would you prefer if I acted victorious or pulled out my hair and lamented your lost virtue?"

[Mukuro made his way into the priest's kitchen, a bit surprised that he hadn't been kicked out immediately afterward so the priest could pray and have a crisis. All things considered, he seemed to handle it well. Or perhaps he was still winding down from the post-coital bliss, and it would hit him in full force later.

Casually, Mukuro started the kettle, flicking his hair out of his face.]

"Perhaps I shouldn't tell you what else I plan to do to you, if you're worried my reaction is too casual."

[For the love of- Chikusa’s eyes narrow, and he leans down to pull his pants back up so that he at least has a little dignity. It’s becoming a rare thing to possess, unfortunately, but he’ll at least try.]

"You’re the last person who’d bemoan the loss of my virtue. "

[Finally leaving the entranceway of his home, he lingers at the threshold of his kitchen, unsure of what to do. He feels- too much, too tangled together, and he’s not even thinking as his mind tries to distance itself from everything else. His lips pure, just slightly.]

"You’ve already told me the kind of things you want to do to me before. "

"I could be moaning for another reason, if you'd like."

[If he noticed the priest's need for distance now or his hesitation, Mukuro didn't mention it, instead getting two mugs out and the tea. He did, however, shoot Chikusa Kakimoto an amused look.]

"No need to sound so petulant about it. Should we talk about something else?"

[He might be a little smug that he'd gotten this far, and there was no need to push the priest further. Well, not today anyway.]

[A response like that doesn’t even warrant mention, so he tries to pass it over without looking too- as the demon says- petulant. He does want to talk about something else, if he has to talk about anything else at all and the demon wants to have tea, but… What is there?]

[...There’s a question in the back of his mind, one he can’t help wonder about.]

"...You weren’t… touched. In turn. Are you…?"

[My, my, now wasn't this interesting? The priest had been given a proper out not to continue this line of conversation, and yet he'd decided to bring it up again of his own free will. It took a lot of effort for Mukuro not to cackle victoriously, but he couldn't stop his mouth from curving up in a sly, sharp smirk, his red eye practically burning when he tossed a casual glance over his shoulder.]

"I was going to take care of it later, but if you're volunteering to help, I wouldn't turn down the generous offer."

"It’s not like that. "

{His voice is quiet, not a snap, but it’s still sharp regardless, and his eyes narrow as his frame tenses up. Not that he’s… innocent of having thoughts such as those- pondering the appeal of doing something like that, wondering what the demon looks like when he’s already bared himself- but. Still.]

[He’s not that far gone. Not yet. He tries to console himself with that thought.]

"But if someone in such a worked up state left a priest’s apartment, and someone saw…. It would be troublesome for me. "

[What a cute and not at all transparent reason for the priest to worry about him. Mukuro turned his attention back to the tea, but his shoulder shook slightly with mirth.]

"I can take care of it myself, Chikusa Kakimoto, before I leave if you're so worried about what your neighbors would think."

[Even though it was a distinct possibility they had heard the noises that the priest had made at his own front door. Hopefully this new apartment was more soundproof than it looked.

When the kettle whistled, he poured the hot water into mugs, smirking.]

"If you're interested, you're more than welcome to watch."

[Honestly, it’s something he has to consider, for all that it makes shame twist in his gut a little, that someone did hear him. His only hope is that, considering the time of day, less people are in the apartment building than they would be at any other time. And, trust him, he’s desperately hoping.]

[For now, however, he stays focused on the demon, and slips into an unimpressed dead eyed stare when he sees those shoulders shake. He thinks he could really go without the constant laughter at his person.]

"I was under the impression that you were the one with the voyeuristic kink…"

[Mukuro didn't need to see the priest's face in order to know what kind of expression he was making, and the thought only made him chuckle all the more.

He brought the steaming mugs towards the table, setting one in front of the priest and the other in front of himself, heading back to the cabinets briefly to forage for the sugar.]

"I wouldn't mind putting on a show if it was for you, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[For a second, like when they were first meeting in their dreams and the demon started up their now shared habit of tea, Chikusa wavers before venturing to the table and sinking into the seat.]

"More sweet words… [Cradling the mug, he ducks his head to stare into it.] You say that with everything about me. "

[That wasn't a 'no', Mukuro was amused to note as he took a drink of his tea. He couldn't tell if the priest was just coming around to his way of thinking or if, perhaps, he was tired of fighting his own desires. Either way, he would accept it.]

"It's the truth."

[A sin for a demon, but it was coated in enough sin to keep him from feeling the disgusting feeling that usually accompanied telling the truth.

He smirked at the priest from over his mug, raising an eyebrow.]

"Would you want me to return the favor you did for me? I could do so naked in your bed."

[Because for all that they'd done, Mukuro hadn't completely disrobed.]

[Really, it’s a good thing he didn’t start on his tea while the demon still had a mouth unoccupied. Chikusa can only imagine how hard he would have choked on his tea at that last statement. As it is, it’s just a sharp inhale of breath as he imagines- no. That’s the first step to everything going straight to hell, literally in this case.]

[His face is still burning in a way that has nothing to do with the steam rising up out of his mug.]

"Just- my bathroom. Go do it in their to make yourself presentable." [His fingers dig in tighter against his tea.] "...I’ve committed enough sin in a day…. "

[What a splendid reaction. Mukuro had to keep himself from laughing at the way the priest flushed all red and lovely, hiding his amusement behind his tea mug.]

"If it helps ease your conscious, I was the one committing most of the sin."

[Mukuro smirked wickedly, before finishing off his tea. He flicked his hair casually over his shoulder, giving the priest one last, heavy stare before getting up.]

"I'll be in the bathroom then. If you change your mind, let me know."

[That’s not how it works at all, a fact that he’s sure both he and the demon know, but he doesn’t say anything against it. There are certain arguments that aren’t worth the breath it would take to have them. So he keeps his eyes focused downwards, not wanting to see what look the demon gives him, and waits until he hears his footsteps fade away. Letting out the breath he’d been holding, Chikusa moves himself back to his couch. Already, he can feel regrets and uncertainty start to weigh down on him all the harder.]

[Only a kiss…. That’s what he had meant to happen. A kiss wasn’t inherently sinful, after all, no matter the recipient, even if the memories he had associated with it were. But what had happened, right there in the entranceway of his own home, against the door… As he sinks down into his couch, Chikusa thinks of it and shudders. He’s never going to be able to get rid of that mental image now: Mukuro on his knees, lips wrapped around his cock, those eyes focused straight on him with every lewd wet noise.]

[Chikusa squeezes his legs together and does his best to focus on the tea in his hands while he waits for the demon to finish his business. Except that doesn't do much for him at all, as it turns out, so by the time Mukuro comes out from the bathroom, it's highly likely that he'll find the priest quietly praying with a half finished mug of tea on the coffee table.]

[It was a bit of a disappointment and a slight surprise that the priest didn't follow him in, but Mukuro supposed he had pushed him as far as he could for one day.

To give the priest some semblance of dignity and decorum, he closed both the bedroom and bathroom door to help muffle any noise, as well as let the shower run lightly. He gave it a few moments just in case the priest decided to change his mind, toying with the idea of doing this on the bed for comfort and to have the delicious imagery of the priest doing the what he was about to do in the same spot, before restraining himself. It probably wasn't wise to do so just yet.

He shimmied his pants down halfway down his thighs, sighing in relief as his cock sprung free. As he leisurely gripped his shaft and stroked, he recalled the flushed look on Chikusa Kakimoto's face, the sounds he made, how he had tasted. Mukuro wasn't looking to win awards for stamina today, and he was concerned about his cute little priest, so it was a quick and somewhat unsatisfying orgasm before he cleaned himself up, turned off the shower, and headed back to the living room. He had expected to come back to an empty apartment with the priest long gone, but instead he was amused to find him praying.

Gently, he dropped on teh couch next to him, canting his head to the side.]

"That sinful?"

[Sorry if he sounded very pleased with himself, except not really.]

[Has Mukuro ever regretted anything, even a single solitary thing, in his whole existence?]

[With only his breathing and the sound of occasional traffic outside his window, it’s easy for him to tell when the demon walks back out from his bathroom, and Chikusa squeezes his eyes tighter as if to steel himself. He doesn’t want to see how Mukuro looks- if he’s disheveled, redfaced, any of that. It’ll only awaken sinful urges again.]

"...I’ve broken my vow of celibacy. Of course it’s that sinful. "

[Few and far between, but no creature could go through as many lifetimes as he had without having a few.

Though Mukuro was sorely tempted to, he didn't reach out to touch the priest, instead folding his legs underneath his body, watching Chikusa Kakimoto in interest.]

"This isn't the first vow or sin you've committed, priest."

[It almost sounded sympathetic, but mostly, Mukuro was tired. The day had worn on him, and the post coital haze was making him sleepy.]

"Should I leave?"

"Yes."

[Well. At least Mukuro doesn't have to wait long for an answer.]

[He's not finished, however, hands slowly lowering until they're no longer in prayer, merely loosely clasped and uncertain as he glances at Mukuro from behind his hair. He should make this final- this has gone too far, tugged him in too deep. This isn't like the dreams, where he can make all the excuses he wants. This is real.]

[...But...]

Should I expect another call from you...?

[Wow so rude, that Chikusa Kakimoto, but not entirely unexpected. Though it was tempting for Mukuro to reach over to brush his hair out of his face, to get the full extent of the priest's conflicted expression, he kept his hands wisely to himself. He had already pushed too far today-

Or so he believed until the priest spoke again, sounding hopeful despite all else. Mukuro's lips curved upwards, and he vacated his spot on the couch.]

"Of course. You're mine, haven't I said so before?"

[His…. A shudder wracks his spine at the same time Chikusa tries to set his jaw.]

"I belong to God first and foremost, thank you. "

[No matter that the idea of being owned by someone, of that person telling him he was of value enough to be owned… It strengthens that ache in him, that desire. Once again, he thinks of the demon’s offer. To be owned and wanted for eternity, to never forget about that kind of thing ever again…]

[He shakes his head, reaching again for his tea that’s long since cooled.]

"Now please leave. "

['That wasn't who you were crying out for' was right on the tip of his tongue, but Mukuro could have some restraint, admirably enough. Instead, he gave the priest a small little wave, letting the door close quietly behind him.

Though there was a temptation to contact him again the next day, Mukuro let a few days pass to give the priest time to collect himself before calling him.

He hadn't been sure if the priest would have let him in his house again, even with Mukuro calling and knocking on the other side of the door, so he had made himself a cup of tea, turned on the television to something banal, and made an attempt. If the priest didn't feel like picking up, well, it wasn't like Mukuro didn't know where he worked and lived.]

[As he does so many times, Chikusa prays. This time, however, it’s for a different purpose.]

[He still seeks forgiveness, of course, still tries for salvation, but, now… There’s something more to it. He pray and desperately hopes that they’ll be returned in some way. That God will reach out to him, will give him a sign, because after years of being content with silence, with nothing… Chikusa wants more. It’s as he told the demon.]

[But nothing comes, and he still thinks of the demon’s warmth against him with guilt and longing twisted around each other, and every time he goes to church, his confusion and indecision don’t lessen. Ideally, he’d like a whole year to sort out his various issues… but of course it’s only a few days after the ‘date’ that the demon calls him again right as he finishes changing out of his priestly garb. For a second, he only stares at it, recognizing the number flashing on the screen, before he tentatively goes to answer it.]

"...Kakimoto Chikusa speaking. "

[The sound of the priest answering the phone was enough to make Mukuro start, temporarily speechless for a few heartbeats. He hadn't expected an answer, but now that he had one... His voice was smug, a low purr of pleasure, his smirk in a vocal form. Honesty was still an annoying scratch at the back of the throat, but he figured the priest would appreciate it.]

"I wasn't expecting you to pick up."

[He let out a soft sigh, leaning back into his couch, lowering the volume of his television set, getting comfortable.]

"I was going to leave you a naughty voicemail, but now I'm at a loss."

[Silence.]

[Aaaaaand then the sound of a disconnected phone.]

[It's so cute when the priest plays coy. That sure was Mukuro calling him right back, shoulders shaking with laughter.]

[Good news: he answers.]

Don't you dare leave a message, please.

[Bad news: and then he hangs up again.]

[If Mukuro wasn't laughing before, he definitely was now. It might even be described as 'cackling'. It was a good thing that he had made sure his apartment was heavily insulated against sound ( for other reasons of course, but he wouldn't complain if it served for multiple purposes ).

Once he could see straight enough to text, he would:]

Should I send you a naughty picture instead then?

[But before the priest could block his number:]

How are you?

[He swears one day he's going to block this number. He really will.]

[Just... not today, and he stares with thinned lips at the messages that have been left for him.]

Tired. I'm a busy person.

[And suffering under the weight of how he'd broken his vows, but, you know]

['Busy' huh? Mukuro wasn't sure if the blatant lie should annoy him or amuse him.]

I'll be brief then. When can I see you again?

[Listen, Mukuro, you don’t know his life now!!!!]

What would you do if you saw me again?

[Pretty sure he does, in between stalking you himself and then having his lackeys do it. Also he's been in that apartment enough times to have installed cameras I mean-]

Whatever you let me get away with.

Or if you're afraid for your virtue, there's a movie I want to see.

[mukuro he swears to God if he finds cameras in his apartment]

I’m still afraid for my virtue considering your other plan doesn’t negate the first.

[Mukuro would absolutely be the type of person to start something in a movie theater. Try to tell him otherwise.]

Would you like to suggest something else instead, priest? And don't forget the caveat is I'll do anything you'd let me.

[Which means that if Mukuro gets lucky in a movie theater it's because Chikusa Kakimoto lets him.]

[Please stop reminding him of his sin, Mukuro…. At that, there’s just a pause before the answer comes.]

What movie?

[Like Chikusa Kakimoto hadn't been thinking about it every minute of the past few days.]

A horror movie. [please insert a relevant gory horror movie, but surprisingly it's not possession themed nor does it involve religion]

[Exactly, that’s why he doesn’t need your help.]

Trying to find new ideas, demon?

I hardly need to look to humans for that. Horror means the likelihood of you becoming aroused and handsy is unlikely, so you'd be more inclined to accompany me.

I’m not the one who becomes handsy.

If it makes you feel more at ease, you can bind my hands.

With how you've acted before, I think you'd like that.

I'd like anything you did to me priest. Except for a repeat performance of tea being dumped on me.

So I shoud bring some tea. Understood. [A pause.] I have some work that day, but I should be able to make it.

My, my Chikua Kakimoto. I hadn't thought you would be comfortable with stripping me in public, but I won't protest. I'll meet you there then. Noon?

[He’s not going to dignify that with an answer, on the basis that he knows the demon adores reactions, and he refuses. Still, Mukuro, please find shame, he’s begging you.]

Noon is fine. Does that mean you want lunch then?

[He might consider it if the priest begged him on his hands and knees in the hat and nothing else. But it was highly unlikely even then he would find shame.]

If you are open to the idea. You can even pick where we go.

Alright I suppose. So lunch at noon and then the movie?

[He has a bad feeling about agreeing to this, but…]

It's a date.

[One that Mukuro would be early for, standing outside of the allotted restaurant, hands shoved in his pockets as he watched people pass by.]

[Normally, it’s Chikusa himself that would be early, or at the very least on time. However, ten minutes from the agreed time, Mukuro’s phone will buzz with a text.]

Will be a little late. Work.

[There’s no other explanation besides that, and Chikusa won’t respond after. When he finally comes into sight, it’s while favoring one leg over the other, and a bandage along one jaw. Besides that, he seems mostly the same as usual with a passive expression and hands tucked into his coat.]

"Sorry… Things came up. "

[While the priest being late was of some concern, Mukuro had only thought that he might have been held up by a particularly chatty parishioner. After all, it didn't seem like the priest was performing many risky exorcisms nowadays, and if that was due to Mukuro's own influence or because there were few demons in the vicinity nowadays remained to be seen.

And while Mukuro had seen the priest in a worst state, for some reason, seeing him limping towards him with a bandaged jaw made his blood boil. Normally, he wouldn't touch the priest without it being carefully calculated, but he reached out for him anyway, grasping at his arm to tug him closer to him and see the full extent of his injuries. His eyes narrowed, his mouth tightening and turning down at what he saw.]

"Who did this?"

[He was prepared to keep his distance. To truly treat this encounter with what it deserved: apathy and professionalism. Letting himself get swept up was… foolish. He remembers that now.]

[Or, rather, he remembered it, past tense, because the demon suddenly grabbing him by the arm, and his eyes widen as he’s pulled close. It’s so outside their usual routine, he doesn’t know what to think. After a second, he comes back into himself, and shrugs as his eyes flick away. Delicately, still aware of his leg, he folds his one free arm against his stomach.]

"...It was just a minor demon… [His gaze go back to Mukuro, briefly.] You didn’t know…?"

[He’s not sure why he thinks that the demon would. It’s not as though they all keep close company, demons, and, besides, this one in particular has been trapped within a body of flesh and blood. Would he have been contacted about it?]

[...Well. It’s not like there was probably any planning about it, he supposes. An exorcism wasn’t even supposed to be on the table, for anyone in the church. The visitors were from out of town, after all, simply coming back to an old priest the family knew somehow before they moved elsewhere. They were worried about their child, and it was supposed to simply be a consultation. Yet it seems things escalated, and the next thing he knew, a possessed teenager was slamming into him straight out from one of the small side rooms.]

[He’s had worse, and the situation is taken care of, now. All he’d had to do was stay behind to be patched up a little and make sure he wasn’t too hurt.]

[For once, Mukuro felt warm in this prison of flesh, and he felt his rage like hellfire licking along the thin human skin he was inhabiting. Though he was normally careful about keeping an illusion around his eyes so that they appeared an inconspicuous human blue, he felt the flames of his rage starting to eat away at his right eye, revealing the red beneath. He let go of the priest quickly, least he burn him, taking a deep breath to steady himself.

Because not only was the priest his, and thus under his protection, but he had not known. It was a double wound to his pride, in which he had deluded himself he could stay in this vessel and still keep the same stranglehold on hell as he always had. While minor demons came and went and it was impossible to track them all, he should have at least sensed one in his territory. He had known that attracting more demons to this realm was a possibility, and erroneously he had believed he was prepared for it. Clearly he wasn't, and his priest had suffered for it.

Once he was sure that his illusion was back in place, he turned his eyes up to the priest, gaze sharp and furious.]

"You're a fool. "

[Who he was addressing with that, was really up in the air. He grabbed the priest's arm again, this time gently, starting to steer him back towards his car.]

"You should have told me you were injured and rescheduled. Why force yourself to come here?"

[To see a demon no less. The priest should have felt no guilt in rescheduling, unless he was trying to test him. To remind him that even if Mukuro was powerful, he was blunted in this imperfect form, and that his arrogance had a price.

While it was too late to prevent what had already happened, he could make sure he would make an example of that minor demon. While true, calling attention to the incident might bring more of their ilk to him, it would also deter an equal amount. An eternity was a long time to spend trying to dodge Mukuro's wrath.]

"Tell me the name."

[It was said harshly, with no hint of condescension or teasing that was normal for him.]

"What-"

[Even as much as he’s offended by the insult, he’s just as confused, and he’s helpless to really stop Mukuro from guiding him along. Then again, he doesn’t really have the energy to get into some argument about it all, either- the escapades have tired him out on what was supposed to be a lowkey day, and an injured leg is not ideal for that either.]

[....Still. He thought the demon would be pleased by this kind of thing.]

[Hearing such a change of tone brings a chill to his heart, and Chikusa frowns slightly, chin tucking into his chest.]

"What would you do if you knew…?"

"You're not driving with that leg. I'll call a cab, and I'll have someone pick up your car."

[Quickly, Mukuro pulled out his phone to put in for a cab, forcing himself to calm down lest his fingers shake and force him to poke at his phone multiple times.

The question was met with a sharp, dry laugh, Mukuro turning to look at the priest fully, eye burning bright red.]

"See to it that they serve as an example. You are mine Chikusa Kakimoto, and I will not have others harming you."

[A soft sigh.]

"I did drive here, just fine. "

[But…. That soon becomes something inconsequential as the demon turns to him, states his claim to him, and Chikusa loses every bit of air out from his lungs. Suddenly, he’s far too aware of the state of his body- the flushing heat creeping along his throat and jaw, his heart throbbing as if to break through his chest. His eyes are dilating, although he can’t tell.]

[It takes him a second to compose words to say.]

"I…. The exorcism proper is to happen tomorrow, I agreed to do it quick while things are still early…"

[Mukuro waved aside the priest's protests easily enough, flagging down the cab as it neared them. Absently, he sent a missive to one of his minions to pick up the car tomorrow, holding out his other hand.]

"Your car keys, Chikusa Kakimoto."

[The spike of arousal was interesting enough for Mukuro to tear his gaze away from his phone, and he tucked it into his back pocket as he took the priest in. Any other time he would have reveled in it, and pushed this small advantage, but there were bigger things at stake here. But he would note it for another time.

An exorcism tomorrow didn't leave him much time, and quite honestly, he hadn't left his vessel since he had entered it. He wasn't sure how long it would take for him leave it to do what needed to be done. He was tempted to send the priest on his way and start the task of going to a bloody war with all nearby demons now, but it would be for nothing if something happened to his cute little priest between then and now.]

"Schedule it for the evening."

[Mukuro's voice left no room for argument, and he opened the door to the car for the priest, mouth down turning.]

"And tell me the name."

[For a second, he’s not sure what to do. This is a matter for the church, for him as an exorcist. Letting it be handed over to a demon…]

[But then… is it bad if demons go after each other? Certainly it would mean less trouble for the church… So long as it’s kept to the realm of the spiritual instead of directly affecting humanity on earth… After some moments of struggle, he finally reaches into his pocket to pull out his keys.]

"...Nigella… Whatever you do, you won’t hurt the host, will you…?"

[The keys in his hand feel like victory, like being given a flaming sword to slay his enemies. He smirks, but it's a feral, beastly thing, and he tucked them safely into his pocket. He leaned forward to give the cab driver the priest's address, before turning to assess Chikusa Kakimoto smartly. His eyes, at least, are fading back into their fake blue, and when he smiles, this time it is closer to normal. But it still promises malice and destruction.

Nigella... It isn't a name he knew, but it wouldn't matter. In a few hours, its very existence would be wiped from every imaginable plane.]

"If I don't, will I be rewarded?"

[Slaying demons was all well and fine, but doing good deeds in his natural state would be irritating to him all over again. Perhaps it would be worse, since now he was so susceptible to sensation, having given himself over to a mortal vessel for quite some time.]

[Of course... His expression shifts back into the usual neutral displeasure he's so often worn when around the demon. He should have expected it would be like this, shouldn't he? Shoulders tense, he starts to duck into the cab.]

"If you're responsible for the harm or death of that child... I'll find a way to tear you out from that shell of yours."

[It had been worth a try, Mukuro shooting the priest an amused look as he climbed into the cab.]

"You catch more flies with honey, my cute little priest."

[Still, his eyes hardened, mouth curving up into a vicious smirk.]

"Don't worry. The only thing that will be harmed is that demon."

[So he says…. Chikusa can’t help wonder if that will turn out to be the case. And yet just as much as that, despite how he had told himself he would firm his resolve at being reminded of how demons are…. His hand reaches up to brush against Mukuro’s arm.]

"Don’t do anything foolish. "

[And with that, he tugs the door shut, shoulders hunching up.]

[The touch was enough to startle Mukuro, his eyes flicking over to the priest, surprised by the genuine concern he seemed to be displaying. He would take it, he supposed, as a sign that he was slowly but surely winning him over. It was about time, considering he had all but taken him out on dates and blew him already.

He canted his head to the side, though his normally condescending and smug expression softening slightly at the edges.]

"Is that concern, Chikusa Kakimoto?"

[THE BLOWJOB HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THIS, MUKURO.]

[Stubbornly, he tries to keep his away, at least in an upfront way. There’s certainly a glance from the corner of his eye, heart throbbing uncomfortably at that look.]

"At this point you’re my responsibility… And I know how you overdo things. "

[Is it because the priest had caught feelings long before then?

Mukuro chuckled lightly at that poor excuse, leaning back into his seat, allowing the priest this one white lie. There was also an easy joke about what else he'd like to overdo, but perhaps later. There were more pressing concerns for once than what he could do to his priest.]

"My, my, I don't mind being kept by you in that case. What other perks can I expect?"

[He particularly regrets encouraging the demon in any way, and he resists the urge to shake his head. And to think that only a moment ago, and he’d felt so breathless at Mukuro’s words… Crossing his arms and holding them against his body, he makes sure to keep his gaze focused elsewhere.]

"Access to my car, apparently- please don’t make copies of the key or something…"

That closed off body language was enough to get a small sign from Mukuro, and he let the priest have a bit more breathing room, leaning away from him and inching slightly to the side.]

"Don't worry my cute little priest, I wouldn't need to if getting your car was what I wanted."

[Because that was supposed to make it better.

As they pulled up to Chikusa's apartment and after tipping the driver, he went around the side to help the priest out of the cab should he need it.]

"Next time, reschedule."

"Reassuring."

[Still, as he opens the door to find the demon waiting for him, he hesitates only a moment before sliding his hand into his to rise to his feet.]

"I thought your ego would be stroked more."

"There are better ways to stroke it that don't involve your pain."

[It was said with a hint of carelessness and lightness, lacking in the usual amount of innuendo it normally did, Mukuro helping the priest up to his feet and heading towards his apartment.]

"Though since when have you been interested in stroking my "

[He glanced over pointedly at the priest's face, interested.]

[At least he's not making this worse.... Chikusa side eyes him in a way that's not particularly subtle.]

"I was preparing myself for having to deal with your overwhelming smugness. That's the only reason I ask."

"If that is what you insist, I'll believe you my cute little priest."

[Though an 'overwhelmingly smug' smirk that overtook Mukuro's expression might beg to differ. He paused once they were outside of the priest's apartment, flickering his gaze back to Chikusa Kakimoto's face, weighing the pros and cons of what he was to say next.

Eventually, with a small sigh, he asked quietly:]

"Should I have someone watch over you tonight?"

[As if he didn't every night, but it wasn't like the priest had to know.]

[Mukuro, why does he tell you anything? Still, he knows he's brought it on himself, so Chikusa merely sighs and allows himself to be escorted in otherwise silence. As he's fishing for his keys, however, he pauses at the demon's words.]

"'Someone'?"

"An associate."

[Like that clarification means anything, really, and Mukuro only looked over at the priest with a small touch of amusement.]

"I know people who could see to your wounds. Should I make the call?"

[Listen, doctors are one of the leading groups of people to sell their souls to demons, and some for actual good reasons. Save this dying child, let this person pass peacefully, murder the director of medicine so I can take their job, blah blah blah.]

"Somehow, the idea of what associates you could have doesn’t fill me with confidence… "

[This is still Mukuro, although that he’s bothering to bust out personal resources for him is… flattering? Still, he unlocks his door and steps inside, although he still looks to Mukuro as he does so.]

"It’s just some minor things… They’ll heal up on their own. I can last for that long, even as a human."

"I associate with you, don't I, my cute little priest?"

[Still, he wouldn't press the matter. He was loathe to have his worlds intersect, considering how difficult it was most days to get the priest to forget he was a demon without flaunting all the morally bankrupt and sinful activities he was engaging in right underneath his nose.

There was a temptation to follow the priest inside, to soothe those 'minor' wounds with his mouth and his hands, but he had a more important job to do. Besides, the priest was looking wary enough, so there was no need to make him even more skittish.]

"Then I'll leave you to heal. I'll see you when my work is complete, Chikusa Kakimoto. Until then... "

[He reached out, brushing a gloved hand almost affectionately against his cheek.]

"Keep out of trouble."

[He wishes he wouldn’t do this to him, how he can make Chikusa’s heart thud painfully against his chest with only a simple brush of a leather covered hand. There’s probably a blush spreading from where those fingers grazed him, but he at least manages to keep his calm otherwise.]

"Since I’m involved with you, I think it’s a bit late to say that…. [And then after a second-] Don’t hurt yourself. "

[And he closes the door before he can see what Mukuro’s expression becomes like.]

[With nothing to do now but pass the time, Chikusa tries to occupy himself. He takes a bath, always relaxing, tries to watch the news…. Even finds himself drawn to sketching out that gorgeous intense expression that had been on the demon’s face, his heart twisting in his chest as he does so.]

[But unable to help himself… He keeps glancing to his phone, wondering if he’ll get a call- whether from the Church on whatever happens to the demon he’s supposed to exercise, or Mukuro himself.]

[Words were inherently meaningless, didn't Mukuro know that better than anyone? Promises were made just as easily as they were broken, people misread and misunderstood them either on purpose or on accident but the results were the same, and the most important things would often go unsaid. So why was it when the priest offered that small bit of caution, Mukuro felt such a keen satisfaction and warmth at it? Was it perhaps his vessel's body reacting, or worse, was it his own? It was probably for the best that Chikusa Kakimoto shut the door as quickly as he did, because the temptation to step inside had strengthened a thousand fold, to reach for him and make that blush extend further than just his face, and he wasn't quite sure his expression was as he wanted it.

For a few moments, he stood in quiet shock before shaking himself out of his stupor, laughing softly before taking his leave. Sometimes he forgot just how distracting the priest could be, how much of a temptation, and he had work to do.

Prying himself out of his vessel was as painful as it was exhilarating. It felt like ripping every nerve out of the body, followed by the rush and relief of being free. He had forgotten how confining his vessel had been, and just how powerful he was. In order to preserve his vessel, he had done his best to lock away most of it, but now, now...

It was laughably easy to find the demon who was possessing the child. It was just as easy to destroy that demon without even having to harm a hair on the child's head, but Mukuro's rage wasn't content with just that. Over the next month, he led a one demon campaign against those in his area, slaughtering any who didn't submit to his will, drunk both on anger and power.

There was a definite draw to stay in his natural form, to continue this war on indefinitely until he ruled hell again with an iron fist, but there were few challenges that had surfaced while he had been away. It grew wearisome and tiresome, and once he was satisfied that no real threats were anywhere near his precious little priest, he returned to his vessel. Re-synchronizing with his host was less tedious than the first time, but it still took time for him to get comfortable enough to contact the priest. ( Who, if he had bothered to contact him at all during his absence would be met with short, polite, but vague replies from his vessel. His apartment would similarly be empty and met with no response ).

Briefly, he wondered if he had been missed when he sent the priest a short message.]

Did you miss me?