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eternal sin 4
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[There have been ages when time has passed so quickly for Mukuro he could scarcely believe it had been decades when he had finally come out of his stupor. So really, two weeks should not have dragged slower than any eon that he had experienced before, a delicious kind of torture that he had only enjoyed for its novelty but then had quickly grown tired of wading through it.
It was a gamble, after all. He had known that better than anyone. He had kept a close eye on the priest, had watched him make minute changes in his life, but each journey was started with a single small step. Would it be enough for Chikusa Kakimoto to finally start living in the world as a regular mortal? He hoped not, but in those tremulous two weeks, he would not have made a bet. He didn't believe in doing so when he wasn't sure he was going to win.
To try to pass the time, he had gone back to his other toys, and while they could be amusing for a fashion, his interest in them had faded sharply. Even as he was teasing and beguiling and seducing them, he wondered what his young priest was up to. It was vexing, but even if he couldn't tell the outcome, he could believe in his work and charm.
That being said, when he finally felt the whisper chill of the name he had given Chikusa Kakimoto slide down his spine, he felt a perverse moment where he wouldn't come to him. To be left for two weeks with nothing, well. Mukuro supposed he had done worst, and he would take it for the victory it was. The priest was stubborn after all, and more devout than he had previously given him credit for.
This time he was going to be poking through Chikusa Kakimoto's closet, trying on a few of the hats when he awoke.]
"You should wear these more often. Especially the one with the fuzz on the top."
['Waking up' to someone in his room is disorienting and... more invasive than Chikusa would have thought. It throws him off balance for a moment, to see him simply right there and talking with him. He jerks up, head swimming, and needs a moment before he can even recognize the words being spoken to him.]
"What...? Why are you trying to give me fashion advice?"
[It's not exactly riveting conversation, no, he knows that. Still, he's trying to recover, fingers curled in his hair and his other hand digging into the sheet.]
[It may be rude to laugh at Chikusa Kakimoto's disorientation, but Mukuro never thought or believed he was a good person. It was amusing that he was so surprised to see him there considering he had summoned him, but considering Mukuro had thought about not coming at all, he supposed he could give the young priest some leniency.
He crossed the distance between them, holding out the hat in question, smile guileless.]
"You complain when I talk about philosophy and theology, and now fashion as well? Here I was just admiring the steps you were taking to change."
"I wasn't complaining... "
[At least, not yet. That's liable to change at any moment.]
[But that's not what's on his mind as Mukuro comes closer. Without thinking, his body curls in on itself a little more, and his lips thin uncertaintly. This isn't tea at a table, or conversing across a counter space. Here, in his bed still, the demon standing taller than him, it's...]
[Vulnerable.]
[Cautiously, he accepts the hat.]
"Why would you admire it?"
"You do a good impression then."
[It was said carelessly, only a hint of mocking and teasing, his eyes sharpening slightly at the sight of Chikusa Kakimoto curling away from him. He would be lying if some part of himself wasn't thrilled at how powerless such a strong priest was before him. That a man who had driven out a number of demons shied away from him and him alone was intoxicating, that Mukuro had to do little but close the distance between them and instictively his young priest knew to shy away.
Yet, that wasn't the sort of reaction he was striving for, so after Chikusa Kakimoto accepted the hat, Mukuro turned away from him, taking a seat at the other man's desk, mouth curling upward in amusement.]
"It suits you more than the others."
[Ease slips a bit more into his body again as Mukuro leaves him, the vice that had seemingly been around his lungs relaxing so that he can breathe once more. Pushing the sheets away from his legs, he straightens up and feels more secure with his feet against the floor.]
[That's better.]
"...I didn't think you'd be so pleased at my attempts to change things in my life."
Mukuro let out a soft chuckle, poking through the young priest's sketchbooks with interest, before settling on the one where his name was being written. He traced his fingers thoughtfully over the crisp handwriting, eyes half-lidded. For a moment, he was blissfully silent, as if he wasn't going to answer, but then he spoke:]
"If those changes will make you happy, of course it would please me. That's been my goal from the beginning."
[More or less. Then, because he was sure that wouldn't sit well and would be called 'lies' as well, Mukuro looked up at him, smirking slightly.]
"And it means you've been considering my words."
[Already, Mukuro knows him so well. Chikusa's mouth is right in the middle of opening when the demon looks up and gives his small addition, making the priest shut it tight again. It's true. He has been considering them, and the facts that have held it sturdy. For all his faith, his actual life is hollow, unfilled.]
[Admitting that so easily feels like a loss.]
"...It's simply clothing. Is that really something you're so interested in?"
If Mukuro had been more prone to dramatics ( he was, but reeling in a wary person was a delicate art ), he would have laughed hysterically that it was 'simply' clothing, but as it stood, he'd let it pass with a few chuckles.]
"They say clothing makes the man. It was interesting to see who you would chose to be."
[Mukuro shifted in the chair so he could drape his arms over the back of it, resting his chin on them as he smirked at the young priest.]
"You can be surprisingly fanciful and adorable, Chikusa Kakimoto."
[...What.]
[All he manages for a moment at that last comment is a slow blink, obviously bewildered at the... compliment? Then it's a purse of his lips, his eyes narrowing, and Chikusa tilts his head to the side as if scrutinizing the answers on a test. A brief second happens where it almost looks like he's going to talk.... But, no, nevermind.]
[He already knows the answer to the question "Are you mocking me", and it's "absolutely".]
[Finally, he finds the appropriate words.]
In what way?
[Mukuro can go back to the shameless sexual innuendos if those would go over better, though he was enjoying Chikusa Kakimoto's reactions to rather weak compliments, in his book.
He turned his gaze back to the hat, still not in its proper place on the young priest's head, sizing it up for a moment.]
"That style is mostly worn by youths. Once humans are out of their teenage years, I rarely see them wearing hats like that. Not to mention I would have thought you would have just bought one that was functional, with no extra decorations."
[He gestured vaguely to the little puff on the top of the hat, sliding his gaze back up to Chikusa Kakimoto's face, mistmatched stare intent.]
"Fanciful. Adorable."
[Though considering the fashion crime that Mukuro was wearing ( but still wearing well he would argue ), he was the last person who should be able to comment on clothing.]
[Well... Chikusa shifts back, averting his gaze. He can't deny it's... silly? Immature? He's an adult and should stick to more practical things. Who is he going to wear them for, anyway? Why?]
"I like the designs. That's all. "
[Getting up, he starts to move for his closet.]
"Why do you always choose my apartment for our meetings?"
"You're not trying to recapture the happiness and peace of your youth?"
[It was a needling question, one Mukuro didn't expect to be answered nor did he much care for it, but he wouldn't be a demon if he was kind the whole time. He might break out into boils, and wouldn't that be unpleasant?
He merely tracked the priest's movements with his eyes, showing no other outward sign of reaction.]
"Don't you like your apartment? [Soft and mockingly.] I could take you other places, if you have requests."
[It'd only be unpleasant for one of them, and that one isn't Chikusa. He casts a narrow eyed look back at him. As Mukuro correctly guessed, he refuses to answer. Instead, he focuses on putting that hat away, even though he knows that his eyes are always going to be drawn to it from now on even in his waking hours.]
"It's suitable enough for me. [Half a lie. He knows how much he's been running from it and what its emptiness represents. But it's still fine for what he has.] I'm not going to sell my soul for a bit of change when it comes to scenery that's not even real. "
"...And that doesn't answer my question."
[What a truly saddening turn of events. Mukuro's mouth pulled down into a frown as Chikusa Kakimoto put the hat away, and he leaned back in his chair, sighing softly. How stubborn he was, this little priest, but it would make having him be seduced to his way of thought all the more rewarding.]
"Then what would you sell it for? Some idle conversation? To learn more about demons? [He leaned forward again in his chair, lashes lowered.] To find happiness? "
[Seeing as how Mukuro had been telling more of the truth than he would have liked, he only chuckled dismissively, tilting his head to the side.]
"Does it matter? Aren't all demons liars and every word I tell you suspect? Besides, [He paused meaningfully, smirk widening.] you wouldn't like the answer."
[Happiness.]
[No hollow apartment. No bitter taste on the back of his tongue whenever he looks at other people actually living their lives. No suffocating under his own loneliness.]
[Chikusa takes in a deep breath and takes his finger away from where its been lingering on the hat.]
"I'll find happiness on my own. "
[But the way it's said softly, his back still to the demon, makes it seem like he's trying to tell himself that more than anything.]
[Stepping away, he looks back to him and frowns, not sure how to take that.]
"Whether or not I would like an answer has never stopped you before. What makes this different?"
[At that weak retort, Mukuro couldn't help but chuckle, standing up from the chair to breeze past Chikusa Kakimoto and head back into the kitchen. Today he felt like having something far more rich than plain lemon tea, putting the kettle on as he went through the shelves, finding boxes of tea that he knew weren't there in reality. Jasmine tea with flowers sounded like what he was in the mood for...
He thrummed his fingers easily against the counter, answering a question with a question.]
"What makes you so interested in the answer to this, Chikusa Kakimoto? Are you starting to find a taste for things you thought you previously didn't like?"
[With its sad size, there's no reason for him to really follow after. He could likely hear the demon from his room just as well as anywhere else. Despite this fact, Chikusa finds himself getting swept up in his trail, following slowly after him.]
[The accusation draws out a sharp grimace.]
"Being curious isn't the same thing as wanting to fall into sin."
"Tea?"
[Mukuro glanced over his shoulder, one eyebrow raised.
He couldn't help but smirk at the tiny justifications and distinctions Chikusa Kakimoto was trying to make. In the end, it wouldn't be able to help him, only keep him up at night. Perhaps Mukuro could give him more food for thought, but only after needling him a bit.]
If you could go anywhere, where would you want to go?
[Tea again... Well. The first time didn't do anything horrible to him, besides what conversing with the demon does by default. Chikusa nods, drifting over to wait on the other side of the counter.]
[If he could go anywhere... Lacing his fingers together, he rests his arms on the counter.]
"Heaven?"
[A dry response, not meant to be taken seriously. Letting his eyes close, he tries to think. It's not something he's ever thought of before. After all the moving he'd had to do as a child, one foster home to the next, he'd clung to any sense of stability he could get. Leaving for any reason hasn't occurred to him before.]
...Germany, I think. Why?
[They're running from the original point, but Chikusa supposes it's to be expected. The last few conversations went more smoothly than he expected, even with the barbs and unpleasant truths.]
[That closing of distance between them was going to be taken as a 'yes', and Mukuro would start another cup for the priest. The first answer was met with a small snort, as he eyed the man with an amused look, clearly not buying it. While he would expect such an answer from a man of faith, it didn't seem as if Chikusa Kakimoto was actually serious, for once. Well, a sense of humor was always welcome when dealing with demons.
The actual answer, was met with interest, Mukuro turning to slide the priest's drink over the counter to him, bringing the sugar bowl and his own tea to stand opposite of him, mindful of the distance. For now, anyway.]
"Just curious. It's not a sin, is it? [Mukuro shot him a small wink, before stirring in a large amount of sugar into his tea.] Why Germany?"
"It's not a sin, but a demon's curiosity seems like a troublesome thing to draw. "
[Certainly, if that part is a kernel of truth in all the lies Mukuro spews, then he's being proven right there.]
[Raising the cup to his mouth, he starts to blow on it lightly. Can he really get hurt by a small burn in what's obviously some sort of dream? Just one more question he's not sure he'll ever get the answer to. For now, it doesn't hurt to go with old habits.]
"I'd ask if you've ever heard of the Black Forest, but it's an asinine question. [He shrugs, sipping at this tea.] I don't think I'd mind seeing it."
"Yet here we are. I honored our agreement, and still you've called me back."
[Mukuro leaned forward, mouth curving upward almost cruelly. He hadn't wanted to bring it up at all, still wary of the tenuous connection between the two of them, but nor was he going to allow Chikusa to delusion himself. That would be counter productive.
He leaned back at the mention of the Black Forest, humming thoughtfully.]
"Perhaps next time. [Then, idly taking a drink:] For a fan of nature, you rarely seem to go out into it."
[Only a few words, but they're a knife sliding through his ribcage.]
[Chikusa looks away, jaw clenched. How can he deny it? That's the truth. The first time in exchange for his mentor, the second in exchange for an answer. This is the third, but there'd been no need to call Mukuro again. There's no need for him to have done this. He could have moved on. He's making steps to fill his life, isn't he? So why did he do this?]
[The answer isn't clear to him. Maybe because he's scared of acknowledging it.]
"I know. "
[It's not clear what it's in response to- the first statement or the second. Either way, Chikusa keeps going.]
"I've wanted to stay in the city. You're a demon- surely you've seen conflicting desires before."
[There it was. That conflict splayed out across the priest's face, while probably barely noticeable to mortals, was as bright as a neon light to Mukuro. He resisted the urge to lean forward, to drink it in, to swallow it in and feel it slide down his throat, smooth as honey. He can practically taste how close Chikusa Kakimoto was to him, how close he was to falling to depravity, and the sweet cloying meatiness of it made Mukuro impatient to taste more.
But instead he just wound his hands around the mug of tea, drinking in that expression. It would be enough for now.]
"What would the rest of your clergy say if they knew? What would your mentor think?"
[Oops, guess he couldn't resist twisting the knife a little further.
The question was barely worth answering, Mukuro flicking his bangs from his face in disinterest.]
"It's not solely a demonic trait, I hope you're aware. It's a very human emotion."
[What would they say? What would they think? Chikusa doesn't know, but he can imagine the looks they would give him. There would be no need to hide anything from him then, no need to fake politeness and civility. Merely thinking about it has his fingers tighten around his mug, and his head bows further.]
[He'd be excommunicated. Surely.]
[It's a horrifying idea. Certainly, his life might be hollow, he might be shunned, but he's still part of something. There's still that community. Without it, without his faith, he's...]
[What is he?]
[Chikusa doesn't answer. Fortunately, Mukuro doesn't press.]
"Being contradicting or having desires?"
"Both."
[Never let it be said that Mukuro couldn't be gentle, letting the other topic go away without another word of comment. It seemed like Chikusa Kakimoto knew the consequences well, but the question was whether that would be enough to stop him and his budding curiosity or if it wouldn't. Mukuro in the mean time would be dying to see the outcome.
But he would put up with the small talk for now, since the priest seemed so keen on it.]
"I have known humans who are outwardly meek and gentle, but when pushed are worse than any demon. I have known humans who only seek money and fame, and do not care about the consequences afterward. I have met humans who would almost restore my faith. [A quiet, contemplative pause, his mouth turning down.] But they all meet the same ends and they all suffer in their own ways."
[It's a relief to have the subject dropped. Chikusa doesn't believe it will stay that way, of course. This is a demon he's dealing with. It'll come back to bite him at some point in the future.]
[But that's the future. In the present, he tentatively lets his shoulders lose some of their tension and peers up at Mukuro from his cup curiously.]
"What kind of human could restore a demon's faith?"
"Kufufu, [There was a quick drop of expression, from amusement to complete ruthlessness, the change almost shocking.] none."
[There was no reason to bring his cute little Chrome into this, to have them meet anytime soon. Not when he couldn't be sure about his hold on the young priest. Meeting someone as pure and lovely as Chrome would undoubtedly sway him back towards his faith, something Mukuro wasn't interested in seeing after all of his work. Hearing one's messiah walked unobtrusively among mortals tended to do that.
But, dodging the question might take Chikusa Kakimoto's interest start to pique in a different direction, he added:]
"A type of person who only comes once every millennia. You speak of miracles, and yet all I have seen are precious few mortals who had the wish to change the world and the ability to do so."
[After only a few meetings, Chikusa's never seen an expression like that cross the demon's face. Hunger, cruel delight, mocking ease, yes, and he's come to expect all of those. But that sharp expression, that rapid change...]
[For a second, Chikusa is left visibly off balance and he reacts on instinct. Even meeting the demon as he's been doing can't stop habit, after all. He tenses up, takes a step back, and doesn't keep his eyes off of him until the conversation has moved on.]
"...But you would say that, wouldn't you? That miracles don't exist. As a demon, it's your way."
[There's still that wariness that the ruthlessness he saw could come back at any second.]
"Since you already know, why ask?"
[Mukuro stirred his tea idly, head canted to the side as he smiled innocently enough.]
"Or are you holding out hope that a demon can be converted to goodness? It would be a tremendous boon to your side."
"I'm neither that arrogant in my own abilities or naive enough to believe it could happen."
[Still feeling on edge, full of nervous energy, he starts to make a move to the couch.]
"Besides, I don't know nearly enough about your kind to puzzle out what would be a suitable enough reason for you to change sides like that."
"Perhaps if a young priest befriended me and taught me the power of friendship, I could be persuaded."
[It was full of mockery, Mukuro making no move to follow after him, but tracking him with his mismatched eyes. He drained his tea cup before going to make another.]
"For someone so who says they are unsure, you are quick to educate me on my ways and actions. I wonder if that thinking could be changed or if you're merely trying to reassure yourself."
[There's a flicker of a scowl on his face at the blatant mockery before Chikusa returns to his tea.]
"So do you want me to never contact you again? I can do so easily. "
[But... That's his attempts to reassure himself again.]
[My, my what a threat that was. Mukuro frowned despite himself, pushing himself off from the counter, leaving his cup where it was as he sauntered over to the couch. While it was far too soon, most likely, to invade the priest's personal space, but if perhaps, he had the strength to swear him off, Mukuro would make sure he had done everything to prevent that.
He sat himself down right next to Chikusa Kakimoto, eyes sharp with interest, and he leaned forward until their faces were merely inches apart. He spoke softly, but each word he used was carefully crafted and thin as a needle, meant to pierce the cracks in the priest's almost impervious armor, and if they could not widen the gaps, at least they would stay there and fester until they grew infected.]
"Could you? Would you be able to return to this apartment day after day after knowing you had invited a demon in here? Are you so certain the small changes you have been making will one day bear fruit? And, even though few have done so in your lifetime, are you sure that anyone else will take an interest in you? Or even notice you?"
[Mukuro leaned away from him a small smirk on his face.]
"Should I leave you now then?"
[Alarm bells start to go off in his mind as Mukuro puts his cup down, as he starts to approach, and Chikusa sets his own down on the coffee table before him. What he can do in the face of a demon in a situation like this, he's not entirely sure, but it's some faint reassurance just to have his hands free.]
[As it turns out, free hands won't do him any good.]
[Being so close, nearly sharing their breath close, freezes Chikusa. Fear is a part of it, that human instinct which tries to guide foolish humans away from danger. He can't deny its presence. At the same time... They're so close. Something has curled around his spine, like static electricity, and he swallows as the words start to dig into him worse than any claws. Despite how much he wants to run away, he's trapped there, listening, until Mukuro leans away and Chikusa lets out a breath. Immediately, he breaks his gaze and curls his fist on the armrest.]
"...And what will knowing you bear fruit to, besides perhaps suffering in Hell?"
[Perhaps Mukuro was having more effect than he thought possible, taking in that rapt stare. True, it could be only fear and the priest's reticent nature, but the fact that he hadn't flinched away yet was progress. What a sad thing to consider progress, but what was it if nothing else?
As soon as his point was made, he would give Chikusa Kakimoto the space he needed to collect himself, standing fluidly from the couch and heading back to the counter, chuckling softly.]
"Isn't it also in a demon's nature to give mortals whatever their hearts desire? You wouldn't be alone, Chikusa Kakimoto, not now or for eternity. "
[He paused, at the counter top, tracing his fingers across it's surface, thoughtful.]
"Perhaps happiness could also be attainable, but I'll confess, I may be rusty in that department. But I do know pleasure, and that is always a good start."
"...But I'd be suffering for eternity. "
[That's what it means to be in Hell, after all. It's what's spawned such twisted creatures as demons, who cause harm to any who come into contact with them and who stay in fragile human bodies until flesh can no longer stand it.]
[Is it really worth that?]
[Of course, then the demon says that.]
[This isn't the first time a demon has said something similar to Chikusa. However, perhaps because of what's gone on in this brief meeting so far- awakening in his room, the casual invasion of his space- something is different, and Chikusa's skins starts to heat up slightly in the dimness of the living room. His voice is somewhat tight.]
"I'm not interested in any pleasure which you might offer."
"Aren't you suffering now?"
[It was said off-handedly, Mukuro smirking at the priest over the brim of his tea cup. True, it wasn't exactly a comforting thought, but demons weren't exactly known for being warm and cuddly. Lying didn't seem to work on his young priest, so he would get as close to the truth as he could without burning himself.
The reaction to that rather innocent offer was far more interesting, and Mukuro couldn't help but laugh at that rather quick lie.]
"It's easy to say that when you've never known it."
[He rested his elbows against the counter, still chuckling softly in amusement.]
"Pleasure isn't a sin. Without it, where would you mortals be?"
[The truth, like so many others, makes Chikusa twitch out a grimace which he tries to hide. He wants to say that he'd been happy before this whole mess, but, while it wasn't suffering... Could it really be any better?]
[It's something he'll hoard to himself for a later time. Right now, he's still slightly pink and reaching for his tea again. There's not a lot of other distractions for him, after all.]
"It depends on the pleasure. "
[He... guesses, anyway. ]
[Now that was a look Mukuro wouldn't mind seeing on Chikusa Kakimoto. It might be getting ahead of himself, to try to carve that expression and exact shade of blush into his memory, but he would do so anyway. He leaned forward with obvious interest, eyes wide and almost innocent.]
"My, my, I wasn't aware that the church was changing their minds on the topic. "
[It must be difficult to get new converts, but he kept his mouth shut about it for now. There were far more interesting topics at hand.]
"What forms of pleasure are sanctioned now?"
[He never should have said anything. Now, whatever he does, those will just be ideas that he's practically handing over on a silver platter. A flicker of annoyance at himself goes through his eyes before something comes to mind.]
[Turning his head away, Chikusa glances at the demon from the corner of his eye.]
"There's always the pleasure of doing God's work. "
[Yes, he's aware he's being a little shit]
[Chikusa Kakimoto being a little shit was pretty entertaining so far, and Mukuro would give him that response at least. He chuckled at that, going to wash out his cup in the sink.]
"Kufufu, the one pleasure I have little interest in. When you're ready to expand your horizons, you'll let me know?"
[Except it wasn't so much a question.]
[That's certainly a different response than when he had invaded his space so forcefully... Chikusa keeps it in mind, finishing off his tea.]
"So it's only that one pleasure you have no interest in, is that it?"
"Bring me your cup if you please. I'll clean it out too."
[It was the least he could do as a gracious host in the apartment that wasn't quite Chikusa's apartment.
That question made Mukuro shrug carelessly, though his shoulders tensed slightly.]
"As a demon, wouldn't it be true to my nature? [Let that go, holy shit Mukuro he had you pegged.]"
[Fortunately, Chikusa is still somewhat fumbling and new to reading people in some ways. As he picks up his cup and gets to his feet, he misses the way those shoulders tense. His response is merely a soft noise.]
"I suppose... "
[Coming into the kitchen again, he pauses. His tone turns dry again. Unfortunately, he still gets ideas.]
"But since you're so busy trying to tempt a man of the cloth with how he can't know how good something is that he's never experienced, you deserve having the opposite offered to you."
"Kufufu are you telling me I should pray with you priest? Or go with you to church? [He paused, glancing over at Chikusa Kakimoto with mock amusement.] Should I join your order? I know quite a few verses of your book by heart."
[He held out a hand for the priest's cup, one eyebrow raised.]
"Weren't you just telling me you weren't so naive?"
"Technically, you've already been in church. Unfortunate that your visit didn't seem to do you much good. "
[Things would be a lot easier if it had, he suspects, handing over the cup simply.]
"Besides, yes, I know better. There's no point in bringing someone to church if they can't even stand a slight bit of holy water. "
[Also he's a demon who lies and hasn't changed his ways for probably centuries.]
"In a way, it answered my prayers."
[Though what sort of prayers a demon made clearly weren't good ones, if the wicked smirk on Mukuro's face was any indication. He was tempted to ask after Chikusa Kakimoto's mentor, but honestly, he had long lost interest in that man and he doubted bringing him up would do him any favors.
He let his gloved fingers linger against the priest's when a thought struck him, and he leaned in closer, slow and smooth.]
"You still have a point though, priest. It isn't fair to ask you to go against your own nature and not go against my own as well. Let me give you a small taste of pleasure and I will do a good deed of your choosing."
[He paused, canting his head to the side with a small frown.]
"Though not too good."
[It's right as he's about to pull away from that linger hand when, just like before, Mukuro leans in again. Exactly like before, Chikusa finds himself freezing without any thought to do otherwise able to break through. No pointed venom this time, however, but something almost worse. Something that slides against him like silk and sends an electric feeling up his spine.]
[This is a bad idea. He should refuse. At the same time, that an offer is even being made...]
"And... What, according to a demon, is "too good"?"
"The usual."
[Mukuro turned away from him to start washing out the priest's cup, hiding his smirking, almost triumphant expression from the mortal. Just the fact that he was asking tasted like victory, and Mukuro was fine with doing a small good deed if it would help contribute to a very bad one in the long run.]
"Anything that would interfere with my fellow brethren's plans, restoring someone's faith in god, or a task that would be considered large scale."
[He paused, moving to dry both of the cups.]
"You can make a list if you desire."
[One deed in exchange for another... He thinks on it, lapsing into silence. This isn't something he can treat lightly. One right doesn't make a wrong, et cetera. Selling your soul to a demon, even in exchange for a lifetime of good, is still wrong.]
[But... This isn't selling his soul. Just- touching, maybe. A little bit, an equivalent exchange. That's... nothing too bad, is it? He can repent for something on a minor scale, a "little bit of pleasure".]
"...Because you're a demon... It would only be fair if you did your side of a deal like that first."
"My, my, do you not trust me yet, Chikusa Kakimoto? I've honored each of our agreements."
[Mukuro turned to lean against the counter, head tilted to the side and a small mocking smile on his face. Well, he supposed keeping a few agreements for now would be worth it in the long run, so he could play along for now.
He waved a hand airily at the clause, agreeing though not too thrilled about it.]
"I'll eagerly await to see what you ask of me, my young priest. Until next time."
[He released him then back to his natural slumber, wondering just what sort of suffering he would have to put up with just for the sake of a little pleasure.]
[There have been ages when time has passed so quickly for Mukuro he could scarcely believe it had been decades when he had finally come out of his stupor. So really, two weeks should not have dragged slower than any eon that he had experienced before, a delicious kind of torture that he had only enjoyed for its novelty but then had quickly grown tired of wading through it.
It was a gamble, after all. He had known that better than anyone. He had kept a close eye on the priest, had watched him make minute changes in his life, but each journey was started with a single small step. Would it be enough for Chikusa Kakimoto to finally start living in the world as a regular mortal? He hoped not, but in those tremulous two weeks, he would not have made a bet. He didn't believe in doing so when he wasn't sure he was going to win.
To try to pass the time, he had gone back to his other toys, and while they could be amusing for a fashion, his interest in them had faded sharply. Even as he was teasing and beguiling and seducing them, he wondered what his young priest was up to. It was vexing, but even if he couldn't tell the outcome, he could believe in his work and charm.
That being said, when he finally felt the whisper chill of the name he had given Chikusa Kakimoto slide down his spine, he felt a perverse moment where he wouldn't come to him. To be left for two weeks with nothing, well. Mukuro supposed he had done worst, and he would take it for the victory it was. The priest was stubborn after all, and more devout than he had previously given him credit for.
This time he was going to be poking through Chikusa Kakimoto's closet, trying on a few of the hats when he awoke.]
"You should wear these more often. Especially the one with the fuzz on the top."
['Waking up' to someone in his room is disorienting and... more invasive than Chikusa would have thought. It throws him off balance for a moment, to see him simply right there and talking with him. He jerks up, head swimming, and needs a moment before he can even recognize the words being spoken to him.]
"What...? Why are you trying to give me fashion advice?"
[It's not exactly riveting conversation, no, he knows that. Still, he's trying to recover, fingers curled in his hair and his other hand digging into the sheet.]
[It may be rude to laugh at Chikusa Kakimoto's disorientation, but Mukuro never thought or believed he was a good person. It was amusing that he was so surprised to see him there considering he had summoned him, but considering Mukuro had thought about not coming at all, he supposed he could give the young priest some leniency.
He crossed the distance between them, holding out the hat in question, smile guileless.]
"You complain when I talk about philosophy and theology, and now fashion as well? Here I was just admiring the steps you were taking to change."
"I wasn't complaining... "
[At least, not yet. That's liable to change at any moment.]
[But that's not what's on his mind as Mukuro comes closer. Without thinking, his body curls in on itself a little more, and his lips thin uncertaintly. This isn't tea at a table, or conversing across a counter space. Here, in his bed still, the demon standing taller than him, it's...]
[Vulnerable.]
[Cautiously, he accepts the hat.]
"Why would you admire it?"
"You do a good impression then."
[It was said carelessly, only a hint of mocking and teasing, his eyes sharpening slightly at the sight of Chikusa Kakimoto curling away from him. He would be lying if some part of himself wasn't thrilled at how powerless such a strong priest was before him. That a man who had driven out a number of demons shied away from him and him alone was intoxicating, that Mukuro had to do little but close the distance between them and instictively his young priest knew to shy away.
Yet, that wasn't the sort of reaction he was striving for, so after Chikusa Kakimoto accepted the hat, Mukuro turned away from him, taking a seat at the other man's desk, mouth curling upward in amusement.]
"It suits you more than the others."
[Ease slips a bit more into his body again as Mukuro leaves him, the vice that had seemingly been around his lungs relaxing so that he can breathe once more. Pushing the sheets away from his legs, he straightens up and feels more secure with his feet against the floor.]
[That's better.]
"...I didn't think you'd be so pleased at my attempts to change things in my life."
Mukuro let out a soft chuckle, poking through the young priest's sketchbooks with interest, before settling on the one where his name was being written. He traced his fingers thoughtfully over the crisp handwriting, eyes half-lidded. For a moment, he was blissfully silent, as if he wasn't going to answer, but then he spoke:]
"If those changes will make you happy, of course it would please me. That's been my goal from the beginning."
[More or less. Then, because he was sure that wouldn't sit well and would be called 'lies' as well, Mukuro looked up at him, smirking slightly.]
"And it means you've been considering my words."
[Already, Mukuro knows him so well. Chikusa's mouth is right in the middle of opening when the demon looks up and gives his small addition, making the priest shut it tight again. It's true. He has been considering them, and the facts that have held it sturdy. For all his faith, his actual life is hollow, unfilled.]
[Admitting that so easily feels like a loss.]
"...It's simply clothing. Is that really something you're so interested in?"
If Mukuro had been more prone to dramatics ( he was, but reeling in a wary person was a delicate art ), he would have laughed hysterically that it was 'simply' clothing, but as it stood, he'd let it pass with a few chuckles.]
"They say clothing makes the man. It was interesting to see who you would chose to be."
[Mukuro shifted in the chair so he could drape his arms over the back of it, resting his chin on them as he smirked at the young priest.]
"You can be surprisingly fanciful and adorable, Chikusa Kakimoto."
[...What.]
[All he manages for a moment at that last comment is a slow blink, obviously bewildered at the... compliment? Then it's a purse of his lips, his eyes narrowing, and Chikusa tilts his head to the side as if scrutinizing the answers on a test. A brief second happens where it almost looks like he's going to talk.... But, no, nevermind.]
[He already knows the answer to the question "Are you mocking me", and it's "absolutely".]
[Finally, he finds the appropriate words.]
In what way?
[Mukuro can go back to the shameless sexual innuendos if those would go over better, though he was enjoying Chikusa Kakimoto's reactions to rather weak compliments, in his book.
He turned his gaze back to the hat, still not in its proper place on the young priest's head, sizing it up for a moment.]
"That style is mostly worn by youths. Once humans are out of their teenage years, I rarely see them wearing hats like that. Not to mention I would have thought you would have just bought one that was functional, with no extra decorations."
[He gestured vaguely to the little puff on the top of the hat, sliding his gaze back up to Chikusa Kakimoto's face, mistmatched stare intent.]
"Fanciful. Adorable."
[Though considering the fashion crime that Mukuro was wearing ( but still wearing well he would argue ), he was the last person who should be able to comment on clothing.]
[Well... Chikusa shifts back, averting his gaze. He can't deny it's... silly? Immature? He's an adult and should stick to more practical things. Who is he going to wear them for, anyway? Why?]
"I like the designs. That's all. "
[Getting up, he starts to move for his closet.]
"Why do you always choose my apartment for our meetings?"
"You're not trying to recapture the happiness and peace of your youth?"
[It was a needling question, one Mukuro didn't expect to be answered nor did he much care for it, but he wouldn't be a demon if he was kind the whole time. He might break out into boils, and wouldn't that be unpleasant?
He merely tracked the priest's movements with his eyes, showing no other outward sign of reaction.]
"Don't you like your apartment? [Soft and mockingly.] I could take you other places, if you have requests."
[It'd only be unpleasant for one of them, and that one isn't Chikusa. He casts a narrow eyed look back at him. As Mukuro correctly guessed, he refuses to answer. Instead, he focuses on putting that hat away, even though he knows that his eyes are always going to be drawn to it from now on even in his waking hours.]
"It's suitable enough for me. [Half a lie. He knows how much he's been running from it and what its emptiness represents. But it's still fine for what he has.] I'm not going to sell my soul for a bit of change when it comes to scenery that's not even real. "
"...And that doesn't answer my question."
[What a truly saddening turn of events. Mukuro's mouth pulled down into a frown as Chikusa Kakimoto put the hat away, and he leaned back in his chair, sighing softly. How stubborn he was, this little priest, but it would make having him be seduced to his way of thought all the more rewarding.]
"Then what would you sell it for? Some idle conversation? To learn more about demons? [He leaned forward again in his chair, lashes lowered.] To find happiness? "
[Seeing as how Mukuro had been telling more of the truth than he would have liked, he only chuckled dismissively, tilting his head to the side.]
"Does it matter? Aren't all demons liars and every word I tell you suspect? Besides, [He paused meaningfully, smirk widening.] you wouldn't like the answer."
[Happiness.]
[No hollow apartment. No bitter taste on the back of his tongue whenever he looks at other people actually living their lives. No suffocating under his own loneliness.]
[Chikusa takes in a deep breath and takes his finger away from where its been lingering on the hat.]
"I'll find happiness on my own. "
[But the way it's said softly, his back still to the demon, makes it seem like he's trying to tell himself that more than anything.]
[Stepping away, he looks back to him and frowns, not sure how to take that.]
"Whether or not I would like an answer has never stopped you before. What makes this different?"
[At that weak retort, Mukuro couldn't help but chuckle, standing up from the chair to breeze past Chikusa Kakimoto and head back into the kitchen. Today he felt like having something far more rich than plain lemon tea, putting the kettle on as he went through the shelves, finding boxes of tea that he knew weren't there in reality. Jasmine tea with flowers sounded like what he was in the mood for...
He thrummed his fingers easily against the counter, answering a question with a question.]
"What makes you so interested in the answer to this, Chikusa Kakimoto? Are you starting to find a taste for things you thought you previously didn't like?"
[With its sad size, there's no reason for him to really follow after. He could likely hear the demon from his room just as well as anywhere else. Despite this fact, Chikusa finds himself getting swept up in his trail, following slowly after him.]
[The accusation draws out a sharp grimace.]
"Being curious isn't the same thing as wanting to fall into sin."
"Tea?"
[Mukuro glanced over his shoulder, one eyebrow raised.
He couldn't help but smirk at the tiny justifications and distinctions Chikusa Kakimoto was trying to make. In the end, it wouldn't be able to help him, only keep him up at night. Perhaps Mukuro could give him more food for thought, but only after needling him a bit.]
If you could go anywhere, where would you want to go?
[Tea again... Well. The first time didn't do anything horrible to him, besides what conversing with the demon does by default. Chikusa nods, drifting over to wait on the other side of the counter.]
[If he could go anywhere... Lacing his fingers together, he rests his arms on the counter.]
"Heaven?"
[A dry response, not meant to be taken seriously. Letting his eyes close, he tries to think. It's not something he's ever thought of before. After all the moving he'd had to do as a child, one foster home to the next, he'd clung to any sense of stability he could get. Leaving for any reason hasn't occurred to him before.]
...Germany, I think. Why?
[They're running from the original point, but Chikusa supposes it's to be expected. The last few conversations went more smoothly than he expected, even with the barbs and unpleasant truths.]
[That closing of distance between them was going to be taken as a 'yes', and Mukuro would start another cup for the priest. The first answer was met with a small snort, as he eyed the man with an amused look, clearly not buying it. While he would expect such an answer from a man of faith, it didn't seem as if Chikusa Kakimoto was actually serious, for once. Well, a sense of humor was always welcome when dealing with demons.
The actual answer, was met with interest, Mukuro turning to slide the priest's drink over the counter to him, bringing the sugar bowl and his own tea to stand opposite of him, mindful of the distance. For now, anyway.]
"Just curious. It's not a sin, is it? [Mukuro shot him a small wink, before stirring in a large amount of sugar into his tea.] Why Germany?"
"It's not a sin, but a demon's curiosity seems like a troublesome thing to draw. "
[Certainly, if that part is a kernel of truth in all the lies Mukuro spews, then he's being proven right there.]
[Raising the cup to his mouth, he starts to blow on it lightly. Can he really get hurt by a small burn in what's obviously some sort of dream? Just one more question he's not sure he'll ever get the answer to. For now, it doesn't hurt to go with old habits.]
"I'd ask if you've ever heard of the Black Forest, but it's an asinine question. [He shrugs, sipping at this tea.] I don't think I'd mind seeing it."
"Yet here we are. I honored our agreement, and still you've called me back."
[Mukuro leaned forward, mouth curving upward almost cruelly. He hadn't wanted to bring it up at all, still wary of the tenuous connection between the two of them, but nor was he going to allow Chikusa to delusion himself. That would be counter productive.
He leaned back at the mention of the Black Forest, humming thoughtfully.]
"Perhaps next time. [Then, idly taking a drink:] For a fan of nature, you rarely seem to go out into it."
[Only a few words, but they're a knife sliding through his ribcage.]
[Chikusa looks away, jaw clenched. How can he deny it? That's the truth. The first time in exchange for his mentor, the second in exchange for an answer. This is the third, but there'd been no need to call Mukuro again. There's no need for him to have done this. He could have moved on. He's making steps to fill his life, isn't he? So why did he do this?]
[The answer isn't clear to him. Maybe because he's scared of acknowledging it.]
"I know. "
[It's not clear what it's in response to- the first statement or the second. Either way, Chikusa keeps going.]
"I've wanted to stay in the city. You're a demon- surely you've seen conflicting desires before."
[There it was. That conflict splayed out across the priest's face, while probably barely noticeable to mortals, was as bright as a neon light to Mukuro. He resisted the urge to lean forward, to drink it in, to swallow it in and feel it slide down his throat, smooth as honey. He can practically taste how close Chikusa Kakimoto was to him, how close he was to falling to depravity, and the sweet cloying meatiness of it made Mukuro impatient to taste more.
But instead he just wound his hands around the mug of tea, drinking in that expression. It would be enough for now.]
"What would the rest of your clergy say if they knew? What would your mentor think?"
[Oops, guess he couldn't resist twisting the knife a little further.
The question was barely worth answering, Mukuro flicking his bangs from his face in disinterest.]
"It's not solely a demonic trait, I hope you're aware. It's a very human emotion."
[What would they say? What would they think? Chikusa doesn't know, but he can imagine the looks they would give him. There would be no need to hide anything from him then, no need to fake politeness and civility. Merely thinking about it has his fingers tighten around his mug, and his head bows further.]
[He'd be excommunicated. Surely.]
[It's a horrifying idea. Certainly, his life might be hollow, he might be shunned, but he's still part of something. There's still that community. Without it, without his faith, he's...]
[What is he?]
[Chikusa doesn't answer. Fortunately, Mukuro doesn't press.]
"Being contradicting or having desires?"
"Both."
[Never let it be said that Mukuro couldn't be gentle, letting the other topic go away without another word of comment. It seemed like Chikusa Kakimoto knew the consequences well, but the question was whether that would be enough to stop him and his budding curiosity or if it wouldn't. Mukuro in the mean time would be dying to see the outcome.
But he would put up with the small talk for now, since the priest seemed so keen on it.]
"I have known humans who are outwardly meek and gentle, but when pushed are worse than any demon. I have known humans who only seek money and fame, and do not care about the consequences afterward. I have met humans who would almost restore my faith. [A quiet, contemplative pause, his mouth turning down.] But they all meet the same ends and they all suffer in their own ways."
[It's a relief to have the subject dropped. Chikusa doesn't believe it will stay that way, of course. This is a demon he's dealing with. It'll come back to bite him at some point in the future.]
[But that's the future. In the present, he tentatively lets his shoulders lose some of their tension and peers up at Mukuro from his cup curiously.]
"What kind of human could restore a demon's faith?"
"Kufufu, [There was a quick drop of expression, from amusement to complete ruthlessness, the change almost shocking.] none."
[There was no reason to bring his cute little Chrome into this, to have them meet anytime soon. Not when he couldn't be sure about his hold on the young priest. Meeting someone as pure and lovely as Chrome would undoubtedly sway him back towards his faith, something Mukuro wasn't interested in seeing after all of his work. Hearing one's messiah walked unobtrusively among mortals tended to do that.
But, dodging the question might take Chikusa Kakimoto's interest start to pique in a different direction, he added:]
"A type of person who only comes once every millennia. You speak of miracles, and yet all I have seen are precious few mortals who had the wish to change the world and the ability to do so."
[After only a few meetings, Chikusa's never seen an expression like that cross the demon's face. Hunger, cruel delight, mocking ease, yes, and he's come to expect all of those. But that sharp expression, that rapid change...]
[For a second, Chikusa is left visibly off balance and he reacts on instinct. Even meeting the demon as he's been doing can't stop habit, after all. He tenses up, takes a step back, and doesn't keep his eyes off of him until the conversation has moved on.]
"...But you would say that, wouldn't you? That miracles don't exist. As a demon, it's your way."
[There's still that wariness that the ruthlessness he saw could come back at any second.]
"Since you already know, why ask?"
[Mukuro stirred his tea idly, head canted to the side as he smiled innocently enough.]
"Or are you holding out hope that a demon can be converted to goodness? It would be a tremendous boon to your side."
"I'm neither that arrogant in my own abilities or naive enough to believe it could happen."
[Still feeling on edge, full of nervous energy, he starts to make a move to the couch.]
"Besides, I don't know nearly enough about your kind to puzzle out what would be a suitable enough reason for you to change sides like that."
"Perhaps if a young priest befriended me and taught me the power of friendship, I could be persuaded."
[It was full of mockery, Mukuro making no move to follow after him, but tracking him with his mismatched eyes. He drained his tea cup before going to make another.]
"For someone so who says they are unsure, you are quick to educate me on my ways and actions. I wonder if that thinking could be changed or if you're merely trying to reassure yourself."
[There's a flicker of a scowl on his face at the blatant mockery before Chikusa returns to his tea.]
"So do you want me to never contact you again? I can do so easily. "
[But... That's his attempts to reassure himself again.]
[My, my what a threat that was. Mukuro frowned despite himself, pushing himself off from the counter, leaving his cup where it was as he sauntered over to the couch. While it was far too soon, most likely, to invade the priest's personal space, but if perhaps, he had the strength to swear him off, Mukuro would make sure he had done everything to prevent that.
He sat himself down right next to Chikusa Kakimoto, eyes sharp with interest, and he leaned forward until their faces were merely inches apart. He spoke softly, but each word he used was carefully crafted and thin as a needle, meant to pierce the cracks in the priest's almost impervious armor, and if they could not widen the gaps, at least they would stay there and fester until they grew infected.]
"Could you? Would you be able to return to this apartment day after day after knowing you had invited a demon in here? Are you so certain the small changes you have been making will one day bear fruit? And, even though few have done so in your lifetime, are you sure that anyone else will take an interest in you? Or even notice you?"
[Mukuro leaned away from him a small smirk on his face.]
"Should I leave you now then?"
[Alarm bells start to go off in his mind as Mukuro puts his cup down, as he starts to approach, and Chikusa sets his own down on the coffee table before him. What he can do in the face of a demon in a situation like this, he's not entirely sure, but it's some faint reassurance just to have his hands free.]
[As it turns out, free hands won't do him any good.]
[Being so close, nearly sharing their breath close, freezes Chikusa. Fear is a part of it, that human instinct which tries to guide foolish humans away from danger. He can't deny its presence. At the same time... They're so close. Something has curled around his spine, like static electricity, and he swallows as the words start to dig into him worse than any claws. Despite how much he wants to run away, he's trapped there, listening, until Mukuro leans away and Chikusa lets out a breath. Immediately, he breaks his gaze and curls his fist on the armrest.]
"...And what will knowing you bear fruit to, besides perhaps suffering in Hell?"
[Perhaps Mukuro was having more effect than he thought possible, taking in that rapt stare. True, it could be only fear and the priest's reticent nature, but the fact that he hadn't flinched away yet was progress. What a sad thing to consider progress, but what was it if nothing else?
As soon as his point was made, he would give Chikusa Kakimoto the space he needed to collect himself, standing fluidly from the couch and heading back to the counter, chuckling softly.]
"Isn't it also in a demon's nature to give mortals whatever their hearts desire? You wouldn't be alone, Chikusa Kakimoto, not now or for eternity. "
[He paused, at the counter top, tracing his fingers across it's surface, thoughtful.]
"Perhaps happiness could also be attainable, but I'll confess, I may be rusty in that department. But I do know pleasure, and that is always a good start."
"...But I'd be suffering for eternity. "
[That's what it means to be in Hell, after all. It's what's spawned such twisted creatures as demons, who cause harm to any who come into contact with them and who stay in fragile human bodies until flesh can no longer stand it.]
[Is it really worth that?]
[Of course, then the demon says that.]
[This isn't the first time a demon has said something similar to Chikusa. However, perhaps because of what's gone on in this brief meeting so far- awakening in his room, the casual invasion of his space- something is different, and Chikusa's skins starts to heat up slightly in the dimness of the living room. His voice is somewhat tight.]
"I'm not interested in any pleasure which you might offer."
"Aren't you suffering now?"
[It was said off-handedly, Mukuro smirking at the priest over the brim of his tea cup. True, it wasn't exactly a comforting thought, but demons weren't exactly known for being warm and cuddly. Lying didn't seem to work on his young priest, so he would get as close to the truth as he could without burning himself.
The reaction to that rather innocent offer was far more interesting, and Mukuro couldn't help but laugh at that rather quick lie.]
"It's easy to say that when you've never known it."
[He rested his elbows against the counter, still chuckling softly in amusement.]
"Pleasure isn't a sin. Without it, where would you mortals be?"
[The truth, like so many others, makes Chikusa twitch out a grimace which he tries to hide. He wants to say that he'd been happy before this whole mess, but, while it wasn't suffering... Could it really be any better?]
[It's something he'll hoard to himself for a later time. Right now, he's still slightly pink and reaching for his tea again. There's not a lot of other distractions for him, after all.]
"It depends on the pleasure. "
[He... guesses, anyway. ]
[Now that was a look Mukuro wouldn't mind seeing on Chikusa Kakimoto. It might be getting ahead of himself, to try to carve that expression and exact shade of blush into his memory, but he would do so anyway. He leaned forward with obvious interest, eyes wide and almost innocent.]
"My, my, I wasn't aware that the church was changing their minds on the topic. "
[It must be difficult to get new converts, but he kept his mouth shut about it for now. There were far more interesting topics at hand.]
"What forms of pleasure are sanctioned now?"
[He never should have said anything. Now, whatever he does, those will just be ideas that he's practically handing over on a silver platter. A flicker of annoyance at himself goes through his eyes before something comes to mind.]
[Turning his head away, Chikusa glances at the demon from the corner of his eye.]
"There's always the pleasure of doing God's work. "
[Yes, he's aware he's being a little shit]
[Chikusa Kakimoto being a little shit was pretty entertaining so far, and Mukuro would give him that response at least. He chuckled at that, going to wash out his cup in the sink.]
"Kufufu, the one pleasure I have little interest in. When you're ready to expand your horizons, you'll let me know?"
[Except it wasn't so much a question.]
[That's certainly a different response than when he had invaded his space so forcefully... Chikusa keeps it in mind, finishing off his tea.]
"So it's only that one pleasure you have no interest in, is that it?"
"Bring me your cup if you please. I'll clean it out too."
[It was the least he could do as a gracious host in the apartment that wasn't quite Chikusa's apartment.
That question made Mukuro shrug carelessly, though his shoulders tensed slightly.]
"As a demon, wouldn't it be true to my nature? [Let that go, holy shit Mukuro he had you pegged.]"
[Fortunately, Chikusa is still somewhat fumbling and new to reading people in some ways. As he picks up his cup and gets to his feet, he misses the way those shoulders tense. His response is merely a soft noise.]
"I suppose... "
[Coming into the kitchen again, he pauses. His tone turns dry again. Unfortunately, he still gets ideas.]
"But since you're so busy trying to tempt a man of the cloth with how he can't know how good something is that he's never experienced, you deserve having the opposite offered to you."
"Kufufu are you telling me I should pray with you priest? Or go with you to church? [He paused, glancing over at Chikusa Kakimoto with mock amusement.] Should I join your order? I know quite a few verses of your book by heart."
[He held out a hand for the priest's cup, one eyebrow raised.]
"Weren't you just telling me you weren't so naive?"
"Technically, you've already been in church. Unfortunate that your visit didn't seem to do you much good. "
[Things would be a lot easier if it had, he suspects, handing over the cup simply.]
"Besides, yes, I know better. There's no point in bringing someone to church if they can't even stand a slight bit of holy water. "
[Also he's a demon who lies and hasn't changed his ways for probably centuries.]
"In a way, it answered my prayers."
[Though what sort of prayers a demon made clearly weren't good ones, if the wicked smirk on Mukuro's face was any indication. He was tempted to ask after Chikusa Kakimoto's mentor, but honestly, he had long lost interest in that man and he doubted bringing him up would do him any favors.
He let his gloved fingers linger against the priest's when a thought struck him, and he leaned in closer, slow and smooth.]
"You still have a point though, priest. It isn't fair to ask you to go against your own nature and not go against my own as well. Let me give you a small taste of pleasure and I will do a good deed of your choosing."
[He paused, canting his head to the side with a small frown.]
"Though not too good."
[It's right as he's about to pull away from that linger hand when, just like before, Mukuro leans in again. Exactly like before, Chikusa finds himself freezing without any thought to do otherwise able to break through. No pointed venom this time, however, but something almost worse. Something that slides against him like silk and sends an electric feeling up his spine.]
[This is a bad idea. He should refuse. At the same time, that an offer is even being made...]
"And... What, according to a demon, is "too good"?"
"The usual."
[Mukuro turned away from him to start washing out the priest's cup, hiding his smirking, almost triumphant expression from the mortal. Just the fact that he was asking tasted like victory, and Mukuro was fine with doing a small good deed if it would help contribute to a very bad one in the long run.]
"Anything that would interfere with my fellow brethren's plans, restoring someone's faith in god, or a task that would be considered large scale."
[He paused, moving to dry both of the cups.]
"You can make a list if you desire."
[One deed in exchange for another... He thinks on it, lapsing into silence. This isn't something he can treat lightly. One right doesn't make a wrong, et cetera. Selling your soul to a demon, even in exchange for a lifetime of good, is still wrong.]
[But... This isn't selling his soul. Just- touching, maybe. A little bit, an equivalent exchange. That's... nothing too bad, is it? He can repent for something on a minor scale, a "little bit of pleasure".]
"...Because you're a demon... It would only be fair if you did your side of a deal like that first."
"My, my, do you not trust me yet, Chikusa Kakimoto? I've honored each of our agreements."
[Mukuro turned to lean against the counter, head tilted to the side and a small mocking smile on his face. Well, he supposed keeping a few agreements for now would be worth it in the long run, so he could play along for now.
He waved a hand airily at the clause, agreeing though not too thrilled about it.]
"I'll eagerly await to see what you ask of me, my young priest. Until next time."
[He released him then back to his natural slumber, wondering just what sort of suffering he would have to put up with just for the sake of a little pleasure.]