#◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊

[reginrokkr]

“ i have faith in you. ”

Timid rays of sun find their way past big windows and pale curtains, tainting the dormitory of rustic decorations with hints of yellow, orange and reds. Warm winds make the drapery almost fly within a gush of stronger breeze, causing Ace to stir awake when platinum blond bangs cover his eyelids. Still in a daze byproduct of barely having woken up, he reaches out to push away the few intrusive strands of hair before taking a deep breath. The soft beating of a lively heart alongside the rise and fall of the surface he’s laying atop makes him realize that he has been sleeping on Kurasame. Right, he suggested that they take a nap together.

Roseate lips curl in a gentle smile at how considerate he is. In these recent days, Ace has been feeling specially stressed as soon as the war between Rubrum and Milites waged. Many people passed away already and there was little to nothing that he could do to avoid their deaths. Ever since he was just a child he heard word of Doctor Arecia telling him that he is the closest person to Agito, the savior that would save everyone from this perpetual war that has been prominent in Orience. Nevertheless, the truth is that he does not know what to do to become the prophesized savior. All he can do is do his best to get as close to it as he can.

Alas, that begs the question: What must he do? Besides a savior, what is Agito, really?

❝Are you awake?❞ The man’s chest vibrates under Ace’s ear as he speaks in a slightly groggy voice which he finds cute in secrecy. His reaction is immediate as he feels Kurasame’s hand atop his head, fingers intertwining with warm strands of hair while he looks up to meet his gaze with a smile. ❝Yes.❞ The hand that rests on the spot of his heart moves in slow motions to caress him lovingly, pale cheeks acquiring pink hues. ❝You look better now. The nap must’ve helped, I assume.❞

Fleeting confusion reflects within azure irises seconds before they soften in understanding. There was something Ace had wished to discuss with the indigo haired, yet he was perceptive enough to tell that he needed to rest first. In moments like this, the sole Class Zero member realizes once more how lucky he is of having someone he can trust and talk with. An instructor, a guide, his commander— but also a confidant, a lover. Ever since Ace garnered enough confidence to open himself and stop bottling everything, he did much better. He can feel it.

❝To be frank, I did not know I needed one this badly until you suggested it.❞ A soft chuckle preludes a silent one of Kurasame’s own alongside the befitting rise and fall of his chest. Quiescence falls, albeit is a comforting one as they remain in place: Ace laying on top of the Heavenly King of old while he caresses his hair, occasionally grazing his fingernails on the scalp in a soothing gesture. ❝You know,❞ Ultimately, the cadet breaks the silence that embraced them after putting his thoughts in order. ❝Everyone says that I am the closest person to Agito, but the truth is... I do not know what I have to do.❞

Fair brows knit in a frown, unbeknownst that his words made the Ice Reaper stop his manual motions as if he were deep in thought to what to say. ❝I strive to put up with everybody’s expectations on me. However, since the war began I realized that fulfilling the hard missions I’m assigned is not enough to save people. No matter how strong they say I am and I might be... I cannot save everyone.❞ Trembling lips press in a thin line as he is hit with such hard realization. Or rather, he always knew it— although he refused to accept it and do his best to make it not happen.

A pregnant silence ensued, one which differed from the comforting one of before until it’s broken by Kurasame this time.

❝I have faith in you.❞ Cyan irises widen in shock, his heart skipping a couple of beats as Ace presses his hand onto Kurasame’s chest to look at him in disbelief. ❝Nothing of what I say will alleviate that pain, as that was a lesson that I had to learn in my days as a cadet and the Ice Reaper of old.❞ Emerald eyes soften, hand reaching out to cup the side of his face. ❝It requires more than strength to save people. But you managed the impossible. In a moment in which Milites could have wiped out Rubrum if they so desired by blocking the sole source we have to defend ourselves, you gave everyone magic to fend the enemy troops off.❞ His thumb caresses gently his cheekbone, a genuine smile makings its way to marred lips with scars he refused to get rid of. ❝If someone can save us... that is you.❞

Tears fall down as soon as Kurasame stops speaking, cornflower eyes still open wide as his lips tremble without knowing what to say. Even if there are so many mysteries to unfold or a brutal war to win... even though there is little known in reality about the existence of Agito or the method to become the savior— he has faith in him. A deep warmth blossoms within Ace’s chest as his eyes soften. ❝Kurasame, you...❞ At a loss of what to say still, he crawls him to get closer, hands immediately finding the scarred skin of his lower face as if he were the most precious thing in the world that could shatter at any moment before pressing his forehead against his. ❝...I will become Agito, I promise.❞ Quivering as it may be, nothing but determination laces his voice as he lowers himself more to capture his upper lip in a most tender, loving kiss before resting his forehead against the other’s anew. ❝No matter if it’s not in this life or how many lifetimes it may take... I swear I’ll bring salvation to this world and give you— everyone a better place to live in bereft of any more wars.❞

@rhyra ⭑

#rhyra #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome II: Spread your seraphic wings to the truth. ┊Whiter shade of pale.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @kyouminaine​ is indulging me into writing shippy wished upon a star: Ace/Kurasame - Tartle (hesitation in recognizing a person or thing) // @hollyclovers​​ tagging you too because yes :3

Laboured pants emerge in visible puffs, thin trails of sweat making the blond’s pale skin glisten under the moonlight as he struggles to rouse onto his feet only to fail miserably. It was another night of arduous close-combat training that the commanding officer offered to assist with after spotting Class Zero’s wild card for the first time weeks ago that soon turned into a daily habit. A nasty twist of his ankle coupled to accumulated muscle fever impeded Ace stand up without Kurasame’s bodily help. He has been pushing himself beyond the limits of his body and own growth, he could tell despite the lingering silence on the matter. Nevertheless, it was on him as his instructor to give him a piece of reality he should always keep in mind for future circumstances.

❝This is what can bring you if you insist to push yourself to be a better swordsman in a short time.❞ His words were cutting and cold like midnight in winter as he removed the mask that concealed half of his face, much to the cadet’s surprise. These nights they spent together were punctuated with rare moments in which the lines between cadet and commander were blurred and glimpses of themselves as individuals could be seen, but this was a first, Ace noted. ❝You always hide your features behind that mask. To conceal your scars, I assume.❞ He finally dares to speak, careful in his assumptions to not cross a line he shouldn’t despite the blooming concern for what could’ve occurred. ❝Why...? Why show me something that’s potentially tied to memories of the past?❞

❝Isn’t it obvious, cadet?❞ Emerald eyes squint in response, weary and prepared for whatever snark remark the blond might come up with facing the impossibility to understand why these scars still mark his face even when he had the choice to be completely healed, should he decide to explain him so. ❝This is nothing but a visual example of what can happen to you if you aren’t careful enough.❞ Naturally, he chose not to— disregarding the importance they have to him. ❝What could these scars signify to you? That is all they are: scars.❞ Ah, but he knows exactly the reason why they mark his skin even to this day thanks to the letter an old friend that is no more left behind his death. A much needed glimpse of a truth never known by anyone else.

Perceptive in nature, Ace could tell by the indigo haired’s words alone that these scars must belong to a past tainted with death. His free hand reaches out to hover closely over his face, mindful to not invade his personal comfort until he noticed the lack of reticence for what followed to happen. Cyan irises shift from verdant ones to the scars as he finally touches them delicately, barely grazing them with the pads of his fingers for fear of hurting him even when logic tells him he wouldn’t. ❝These scars are proof that something happened.❞ Unable to tell what could’ve touched his heart to act this way, he pushes that fact on the back of his mind as his eyes soften subtly. ❝No matter if you remember the story behind them or not... they aren’t just scars. They are survival and memories incarnate— right here.❞ His digits stop on a particular scar before focusing his eyes back onto Kurasame’s, roseate lips curling in a soft smile that took the man off guard.

Something has changed. He could tell by the way something warm blossoms within him to the phantom memory of a sentiment long left behind which he wouldn’t consider to be possible, should he give it thought enough. All weariness in his emerald eyes fade as he feels a certain tension weighing on his shoulders. What is this feeling? A flash of images of a younger self confessing innocent sentiments of love to a girl he was meant to protect unsettles him. It burns, albeit it’s far from uncomfortable as he gives in all logic momentarily and allows himself to be driven by whatever lit a flame within him to press his lips against Ace’s.

His heart skips a beat or two the moment Kurasame kisses him, leaving him paralyzed in utter shock and confusion. Within the lack of expertise in these affairs, Ace recognizes this as a sign of love that little does to assuage his bewildered mind. No... this must be something else, for what love could he harbor for him when all this time they have been nothing more than cadet-commander? ❝C-commander...?❞ He manages to mutter when they part, completely at a loss for the first time in his presence. And yet, he couldn’t deny not liking the tenderness of such a soft touch and the residual warmth still present on his lips even when they’re no more atop his or the emptiness that followed after that he could not describe.

❝My... what have I done.❞ As if Ace’s confused voice drew him away from the trance he was in, the first thing his mind could do is chastize himself for his irresponsibility. His composure as a commander was completely shattered, with no way to explain what just transpired between them if only because not only he could tell besides averting his eyes from the azure ones and heaving a sigh. ❝I beg your pardon. I wasn’t thinking straight.❞ Within his confusion, the blond was able to tell that this was a moment of weakness, of vulnerability that couldn’t be helped. What else could he think of this when he could discern that this isn’t like him? His own gaze falls momentarily in silent consideration, deciding that he doesn’t want to make things more complicated than they already are before shaking his head gently. ❝It is late, and we’re both tired.❞ He brushes the subject off as if it never happened, disregarding the growing emptiness he feels inside out of kindness— if only to not see Kurasame any more devastated than he does now. ❝Let us call it a night.❞

The following weeks after the incident were uneventful, finding that everything was going as per usual despite their not mandatory and recurrent nocturne training sessions. Kurasame found peace in knowing that Ace never talked about that event with any of his classmates —or else, he was aware that they would immediately let him know be it verbally or through a shift of behavior— and he was pleasantly surprised to watch him pretend that nothing happened and kept his professionalism as an elite cadet— as expected of him. It allowed him to give thought to his irresponsible actions that night that he couldn’t remedy, for there was a change in him he sought to understand alongside the phantom sentience on his lips every time he thinks about it. Part of him couldn’t avoid wondering what that incident must’ve provoked in Ace, as he hardly shows any kind of sentimentalism or a fraction of his intimate beliefs now that he can compare, regardless.

As the opposing side of the coin, that moment of tenderness marked Ace in ways he couldn’t understand no matter how hard he tried. The emptiness grew and he wasn’t capable to comprehend the reason why he wanted to chase once more the warmth that awakened something within him. It terrified him and the fear of not understanding only grew worse when he found himself alone in this, with no one to turn to and speak about this even though Kurasame never told him anything on the matter. Although he did his best to keep his composure and not show himself affected in any shape or form even in his presence, the breach between his cadet persona he built under the belief that’s what everyone wants him for and himself became wider, making it hard to keep the latter muted and repressed as he did all his life— originating from the fact that that’s what Mother wanted of him lest he was in for another discipline session for his allegedly misbehavior.

Everything would remain in silence until one night would be broken during their stop towards Concordia as envoys. Now that several weeks have passed and he was able to come to terms with what happened, the once Heavenly King could see the incident with different eyes and a much cooler mind. Albeit not any less sincere the last time, he felt the necessity to apologize once more— perhaps to explain why he lost the composure if needed. ❝I’m sorry for what happened back then, truly.❞ He notices Ace flinching at his words out of the corner of his eye, unsure of whether it is for breaking the silence abruptly or the reminder of that event. ❝I have no excuses for my behavior.❞

❝You don’t have to.❞ The blond is quick to shoot back, causing Kurasame to arch a brow curiously as he turns to look at him. He looks so small in comparison to the usually self-confident cadet he always seemed, all hunched over as he is. ❝It was a moment of weakness that should have never happened. I understand.❞ That’s right. That’s what logic dictates to say, devoid of any useless and unneeded sentimentality. Ace knows it was the right thing to say and yet... why do his own words sting so much?

Ace never fails to let him down with the maturity he displays, so distant from what’s expected of his age. It never did and he wouldn’t be surprised weren’t for the fact that there is something amiss in this. In the nights they spent together training, he learned that the blond is straightforward and sincere in his words, always making visual contact which is currently nonexistent. Right now, he almost sounds more dutiful and impersonal than what he has been by being so cold and correct with his word choice. Not that it mattered to Kurasame. Alas, his concern lied somewhere else. ❝Something is bothering you.❞ Far from feeling confident in what he knows about Ace, it was his choice to make a leap of faith to ensure that it’s just a figment of his imagination and nothing more. Fortunately for him, the small jump and Ace’s wide eyes on him proved him right. ❝You have permission to be honest. I wish nothing more than to know that the incident is closed and there’s nothing weighing us in the past for what happened.❞

The surprise written on the blond’s face is unmistakable, even more so when Kurasame’s words left him speechless like that. All this time, Ace believed that what was best was to feign that this never happened in the first place— that it might give some peace of mind to the commander to know that he has no interest in making him feel bad for what happened. Oh, how wrong he was. Now, he’s lost to what to say— to how much he should disclose and how much more to keep for himself even though the man is seeking his honesty. An honesty he knows he has byproduct of all those nights spent together. 

Deep in thought, Ace averts his gaze, fair brows knitting in a frown in hesitation before heaving a shaky sigh. ❝I’m... scared.❞ He ventures to say after a few minutes to recollect his thoughts, unable to look at his commander in the eye. ❝The tenderness of the touch, the warmth... I could never stop thinking about the way that kiss made me feel.❞ His hand reaches out to grasp onto the outer jacket, right over the spot of his heart. ❝But... the emptiness I felt grew only bigger the more I did and the bigger the longing for more became.❞ Another trembling sigh follows, this time in a futile attempt to distract himself from the burning sensation of his eyes as tears bloom before directing his gaze to Kurasame. ❝I— I don’t know what’s wrong with me. You’re my commander, so of course I could never ask you anything like that. It’s wrong, and still...❞ His gaze lowers once more as he bits his lower lip, trying his best to not look so pathetically vulnerable as he feels. ❝I don’t get it... am I getting nuts? Why is it that I cannot erase this longing for that tenderness?❞

Pushing away his bewilderment to learn how much the blond has been enduring all this time in silence, Kurasame listened without interruptions. This new side of him is such a stark contrast with the unmovable and fine cadet he was ever since he first listened him answer his call through the COMM during the Liberation Campaign. So frail and sensitive— for the first time, he could see that he’s just an individual who little knows about life and just about war. He was never given a chance to enjoy his life like he did when he was younger, and it pained him to see Ace crumble like this.

Kurasame extends his hand to wipe away the trail of tears of his face, unwilling to extend any further Ace’s suffering for what could be given an explanation. Hopefully, that will help him assuage the pain with a better understanding of what he described he feels. The soft and sudden touch makes him shoot his gaze upwards immediately, nothing but shock and confusion written in them as tears keep flowing down his cheeks meeting Kurasame’s unusual softened own. ❝What you are experimenting isn’t abnormal in the slightest. It’s only human to seek tenderness and being treated gently.❞ His thumb rubs gently under his eye whilst the other hand reaches up to remove his mask and heave a sigh to ease his own nerves. ❝Even I am not exempt to this.❞

❝Commander...❞ Taking a moment to process what he just said, Ace closes his eyes as a sigh abandons his lips. The prospect of whatever he’s feeling being normal eases his mind, however, it doesn’t change the fact that he feels so inappropriate and horrible for seeking this kind of attention from him— for feeling so invigorated just by feeling his gloved hand cupping his face and wiping away his tears. It takes him a few extra seconds, nevertheless, to realize the implications of the last thing he said to rise his gaze anew abruptly to look at him in a silent urge to let him continue. An action that almost elicited a good-humored chuckle from the commander. ❝Your understanding without prejudices when we talked about the scars of my lower face disarmed me.❞ He clarifies, looking at him with unusually soft, fond eyes for the first time. ❝It reminded me of what I wished my first great love would have and how the lack thereof was the relationship’s doom.❞

He remembers what he said. From the coldness and perhaps harshness of his voice to the way he looked so guarded when they talked about memories that made him wonder if he really meant it or he was just trying to conceal his true thoughts— a shared trait they both have were it true. ❝My apologies.❞ Ace finally musters what little composure he has left to say for the first time, finally aware that he was partly at a fault for that incident. ❝I contributed to this mistake to happen. You shouldn’t feel responsible for this alone.❞

Even in a moment like this, he manages to sound so professional. The prospect makes Kurasame smile subtly at the sight as he removes his hand. ❝It was a mistake, yes. However... I may be known as the Ice Reaper, but my heart isn’t stone cold.❞ ❝...Huh?❞ Despite his lack of understanding, the blond isn’t ignorant to how quickly his heart is pounding within his chest as he cants his head to the side in wait for further clarification— a trait that the commander found amusing in contrast to how easily he understands everything. He understands so little of feelings... but he can learn.

❝Just like you, I found pleasure in what little that kiss lasted. I cannot deny that it occupied my mind these weeks.❞ A pallid pink dusts Ace’s cheeks, slight timidness and embarrassment washing over him as he averts his gaze. Now, he thinks he’s starting to understand. He liked the kiss and Kurasame liked the kiss back. Could it be that he’s insinuating that—? ❝Wouldn’t you...?❞ Out of nervousness, he swallows thickly before directing his gaze towards him. Sincere as he always showed himself to him in the short moments they allowed themselves to be true to who they are, beyond the boundaries that limit them as cadet and commander. ❝Wouldn’t you prefer to seek it from someone who has a better understanding about all of this? I don’t... I don’t even know what love is.❞ He mutters the last words under his breath in a clear sign of defeat as he lowers his gaze.

❝Certainly, there might be better options for someone like me. Still...❞ The following brief moment of pause confuses the blond, ever expecting for further explanation as curiosity gets the best of him to rise his gaze in time to feel the Ice Reaper’s ungloved hand rise his chin gently. ❝Love doesn’t work that way and I had the surprising luck to find what I always needed in you.❞ His lips curl in a genuine smile that reaches his eyes, thumb grazing over the skin of his chin. ❝You can learn, so long as you acquiesce to this too.❞

How can feelings change so easily? Not long ago, before all of this happened, Ace saw from Kurasame a protector figure— someone to feel safe with, to confide in despite what little he disclosed of himself under his belief. All this time, he was terrified by these changes. The how and the why he could never put name to or even remotely understand until Kurasame enlightened him and gave shape to the unnameable. Even when he didn’t have any reason to, he pulled him back to safety, to understand him and make him understand. And the most unforeseeable of all, he’s fine with it. ❝I want to know more about you.❞ He says shyly, the corners of his lips lifting in a smile as well. ❝Not the commanding officer, but you as Kurasame. The good and the bad, everything. You gave me a place where I belong and made me feel human.❞ Once more, tears well on the corner of his eyes as his smile grows wider whilst the indigo haired closes the distance between them slowly, letting him say everything he has to say before doing anything.

❝So I...❞ ❝You don’t have to say anything else.❞ He cuts him gently, realizing how hard it must be to him to put his feelings into words as he caresses his lower lip with the thumb. ❝I heard you loud and clear.❞ Those are the last words before the space between them is closed in a gentle kiss much sought by both.

#kyouminaine #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome V: Downfall of the constellations’ nemeses. ┊Sky of despair.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

“ i couldn’t say no to you even if i wanted to. ”

Different hues of white cover everything as far as the eyes can reach and more in yet another winter season. Years of isolation did nothing but increase the wish of seeing what’s outside the external bureau facility by himself and not just limit his experience and knowledge through how many books he has read. A pale hand extends forwards as he walks side by side with Kurasame, allowing an almost crystalline snowflake land atop the warmer source of heat which melts almost instantly. Ace could never tell what season he liked the most no matter how much he gave it consideration. Nevertheless, he has a particular fondness in enjoying the white puffs of air emanating from either his mouth or nose and the appreciation of being able to hold onto something warm.

Hardly ever both males hang out outside the confines or one or another’s dormitory as a means of protecting their privacy and evading potentially detrimental situations should anyone find out the kind of relationship they have. Perhaps Ace’s comeuppance wouldn’t have further relevance other than what Mother could do to punish him, but he’s cognizant of the retribution Kurasame might suffer for fraternizing with a cadet to his command.

Even if it was at night when no soul was in sight, Ace was happy to have a chance like this.

❝I am glad you accepted the suggestion of going outside together. It makes me so happy.❞ He admits aloud only for Kurasame to hear— still mindful that someone might still be outside as only cadets have restrictions of wandering about past the curfew. Feeling a comfortably squeeze on his hand elicits a small smile before Ace turns his head to look at the man lovingly. ❝I couldn’t say no to you even if I wanted to.❞

Such declaration makes him feel his cheeks warmer than they felt before byproduct of the cold outside. That’s right... even if the verbal communication between them is significantly low —neither they need more than that to understand each other as well as they do—, more often than not Kurasame had tendencies of showing his affection for him otherwise. This being one of his many ways. ❝You spoil me so.❞ He whispered slightly embarrassed at the realization that indeed, the Heavenly King of old does spoil him.

Quiescence falls between them as they continue their stroll, simply enjoying one another’s presence and the beautiful environment outside with a full moon shining bright in the celestial dome. Cyan irises widen slightly as a new realization dawns on him: this is the first time they do something like this since they started dating. ❝...This almost feels like we are having our first date.❞ He says in a small voice due to his own shyness to realizing so just now. Truth be told, Ace has always been content with everything they’ve done behind closed doors mostly, without being bothered by the fact that they must be cautious. He understood that they must preserve their relationship as it is if they wanted to be together. ❝Somehow, this makes me kind of giddy inside...❞ He murmurs, closing his eyes to muster the courage to look back at Kurasame, hues of rose dusting his albescent cheeks as he smiles once more. ❝It is so nice, feeling like this. You always know how to bring out the most beautiful sentiments. Thank you.❞

@rhyra ⭑

#rhyra #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power— the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊

[reginrokkr]

“  i trust you. more than anyone else.  ” / Kurasame

It wasn’t any mystery that Kurasame aspired to reach high within the hierarchy of Agito Cadets, saviors of Orience no matter if any of them rose as the legendary savior of saviors or not. When he met the once Class Third cadet, he could already tell by how exceptionally he fared on battle and how seriously he took his role as a cadet unlike many more who were merely living a life of simple students as if no dangers loomed ahead— his wish was confirmed and reiterated by his friends who talked about him.

Ace knew it was far from a drive for fame and an easier life if he performed excellently in how many days he has left as a cadet until he’s no longer shielded by the Vermilion Crystal’s magic. In an intimate confession proof of the confidence established between both, he found out that his wish was born from a will to prove his late father that he is not a good-for-nothing which eventually evolved into a fervent want to protect the Dominion to the best of his ability.

Said revelation made him wonder if he wished to be part of Class Zero, too.

In a punctual moment where Kurasame needed to retrieve something from his room and Ace accompanied him, an idea sparked within the confines of his mind as they entered his chambers. ❝Kurasame.❞ He calls his name, watching the indigo haired searching in one of the drawers that which he needed before leaving. A questioning hum reverberates from him, minding his own business still until he retrieves a book and he looks at him with curious eyes. ❝Do you trust me?❞ More than him not knowing the answer, his inquiry is a way of confirming what he already knows, for what he considered doing would require as much.

❝I trust you. More than anyone else.❞ The seriousness in his voice and the sincerity of his eyes take Ace aback due to the stark contrast in ambiance in comparison to the prior, more lighthearted one before they came here. The prospect that he’s the one who he trusts the most, however, moves him to the very core. It doesn’t take more than a couple of seconds to recompose himself from the initial surprise, roseate lips curling in an earnest smile that reaches his eyes before taking a few steps to close the distance between them. ❝Would you close your eyes for me, then? This won’t take long.❞

Despite his obvious confusion, Kurasame doesn’t hesitate to close his eyes as requested. With slow motions, Ace takes the book of his hands to place it on the cupboard before stepping behind him and placing his hands atop his golden-plated shoulders to guide him towards the mirror. Careful to not rise any suspicion to what he might be doing, he removes his own cape, shoves in the brooch inside his pocket and drapes it over his own shoulder before proceeding to remove Kurasame’s as gently as possible for him to not feel it— almost, at least. Before he has time to lose his patience, Ace makes sure to place his crimson cape alongside the Vermilion Bird crested brooch and then steps to his side once more so he can watch only himself reflected on the mirror. ❝You can open your eyes now.❞

Almost as if he was wary of watching himself being pranked on, he opens an eye first only to blink both emerald irises open in utter surprise to see himself reflected on the mirror sporting the crimson cape representative of Class Zero. Ace watches him fondly, wondering what must be going in his mind to look this surprise for such prolonged amount of time. Truth to be said, he isn’t as eager to be on the zenith as Kurasame after seeing the dark side of it. One that makes him no relevant as a human being but rather as a weapon to be used as the Rubrum’s top brass sees fit. One that provokes sentiments of overly glorification and jealousy among other ill feelings in equal parts.

Just for a little moment, he wanted to bring him a bit of happiness.

Minutes pass by and Ace eventually bumps gently his shoulder as he comes into the mirror’s view embracing his Class First cape, an apologetic look marking his face. ❝Akademeia’s regulations are quite strict when it comes to dressing code and the representation of each class. Regrettably, I had to wait for a private setting to do this.❞ A few seconds more of no reaction in Kurasame and in the flash of a moment, cyan irises widen in surprise when the other hugs him tightly. Soon, he feels the wetness of tears on the side of the face where Kurasame pressed his own and Ace’s eyes soften visibly. ❝Thank you.❞ He hears him say in the smallest of voices as to not show that he’s crying. But Ace knows and he arbitrarily chose not to see his tears if that’s what Kurasame wanted. Instead, he moves his arms slowly to not push him to encircle them around his stronger body in a much needed silent comfort and support.

@rhyra ⭑

#rhyra #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome IV: Pierce the worldly laws; O’ defiant of reality. ┊Undying heart of light.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

[distracting kiss] / Kurasame

Every large corridor of the Akademeia institution is bustling with cadets as Ace treads through one of them with unhurried steps. Today is a nicely unoccupied day, perfect to seek some peace while it lasts until his duties as an elite cadet demand his indivisible attention for a while depending on how tedious and long the mission is. Concerned and hushed whispers catch the blond’s interest upon seeing some afflicted students for some reason, all of them turning their heads as discreetly as they could towards the opposite direction they came from. When he follows their gaze, he realizes that Kurasame is talking with the Commandant— the latter doesn’t necessarily look like he’s happy, which makes Ace frown slightly.

Class Zero’s wild card isn’t ignorant to the fact that the top brass is not fond of it for reasons he cannot tell for lacking information. Should anything happen, Kurasame as the commander officer is the one who will bear the brunt of it.

A sense of uneasiness washes over him when both men close their conversation and the Commandant’s eyes harden when his eyes meet with the other’s before taking his leave. Emotionally compromised with Kurasame as he is, he would hate to know that the higher-ups are being harsh on him even if he’s well cognizant that he’s prepared for that— and most importantly, he’d never ask to compromise his sentiments in something like this.

Fortunately for him, he wouldn’t have to wait until night comes to ask as they cross paths. ❝Is everything in order? The Commandant didn’t look too happy when he was talking to you.❞ He questions sincerely, concern reflected in his eyes and his softer voice despite his natural ease to maintain an expressionless face. To his surprise, Kurasame coaxes him to turn and places a hand on his lower back to guide him to a secluded corridor where no students pass through at this hour, away from any preying eyes.

❝Did I fail in my last mission’s performance?❞ He keeps asking, worry worsening the more he continues. ❝If that’s what happened, I promise I—❞ Cyan irises widen when Kurasame places a hand flat onto his chest to push him lightly towards the wall while removing his mask with the other one to place a kiss atop his lips. Ace’s racing heart calms gradually as his eyes soften in quiet understanding. The indigo haired cuts the kiss and Ace gives him a small smile. ❝Alright. I get it.❞ He whispers, earning a soft caress on the top of his head before seeing him go.

He did it so he could stop worrying, Ace knows. In the time they engaged into a more intimate relationship, he learned that some things better remain unspoken— at least for now. If anything happened and he wanted to talk, he knows Kurasame will do so. With that thought in mind, the blond resumes his way towards the balcony. Perhaps this time he’ll be able to sing to his heart’s content like he wished for a while if there aren’t many cadets around.

@rhyra ⭑

#rhyra #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power— the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​ wished upon a star: ❝ You taught me to be something better. ❞  [ from Kurasame ]

What are years to a broken legend but a slow erosion until there is nothing left of it but a name nobody would recognize? More from watching Kurasame’s life from two different phases of his growth than his own, Ace was able to see how cruel life can be to the people who deserve the least being abandoned. Some may crumble under the pressure until they cannot take it anymore, others harden as a defence mechanism to keep on. Others, such as himself and Kurasame don’t have it in themselves to let anyone in anymore when there is naught to give as empty individuals.

Imagine the surprise of being the target of such genuine and never spoken before words when their relationship has always been based in implicit shows of love and thoughts that vocalizing them would never make them justice. Within the blond’s lack of expressions for the most time, azure irises widen slightly as he turns to look at the man he swore his love for time and time again— once upon a time unbeknownst that his soul already belonged to him. His words replay within the confines of his mind until they finally seek in and his face softens with the unspeakable feelings that flourish inside and warm him.

❝You have always been great yourself, even when you must think you were foolish and rebel at most in your days as a cadet.❞ His words are equally as genuine, never disregarding the way the indigo haired must see himself in this moment. Despite his no longer impressionable self, he cannot ignore the happiness he feels for something the old Heavenly King makes him responsible for even when he feels undeserving of it. What could possibly could he have done to make him something better even though he never thought he could be better than this? Ah, but this could only be his infatuation speaking that would not let him see the flaws in someone else’s eyes. What a blatant fallacy that would be.

Roseate lips curl in a smile at the realization, head canting slightly to one side. He has always been aware of his flaws. ❝Long time ago, in one of our previous lives. I swore I would give it my all to make your pain more bearable, for I would not expect to heal you completely no matter how much I would love to.❞ If there is the slightest chance that he was succeeding at it, nothing else would really matter. Could this be what he means by being something better? That he can slowly leave behind his broken self to live the rest of his life in peace?

Though the answer may remain unanswered for long —if not forever—, a more important inquiry surfaces within the crevices of his mind as he leans to press his lips atop Kurasame’s forehead in a loving gesture. ❝Tell me...❞ His voice is but a murmur as his lips brush against indigo strands, seconds before locking his eyes with the other’s emerald ones. ❝Are you happy too?❞ Long fingers trace the edge of the mask, longing for caress the scars concealed behind it in silent worship and affection as his forehead joins his. ❝Would you say I am fulfilling the oath I swore to you?❞

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome VII: May Agito excise the gods’ whims. ┊Red wings of salvation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​​ wished upon a star: [ book ] – for your muse to read to mine

Ace listens attentively to every spoken word from the man, read aloud from the Nameless Tome as he walks from one side of the room to the other in slow strides. It isn’t any surprise that Kurasame would believe he must be a madman. Nonetheless, the blond takes his interest in investigating any possible reasons as to why he is capable of doing what he does as something positive.

❝And unto him, I reply: ‘I will become Agito. I will sound the knell to shake all the world. When nine and nine meet nine, the depths of reason shall stir. When the seal of creation is broken, a voice like thunder shall sound, and thou shalt know— we have arrived.’❞ He can feel the expectant gaze of his once upon a time commander officer onto him in silent questioning whether this holds some key to the answer they have been looking for regarding the mysteries surrounding Agito that Ace may know. A long sigh escapes Ace as he closes with one hand the book that contains the Akashic Records and changes of posture where he sits to cross his legs the other way around when the lack of movement starts to take a toll on his muscles. ❝Back in the day I used to think that book held some kind of meaning. But it is nothing but a bunch of tales that don’t make any practical sense.❞

It is little wonder that this would frustrate Kurasame as well when most of the afternoon seems to have been spent for nothing without any progress, punctuated with a sigh of his own while he closes the Nameless Tome and places it atop his desk. ❝Then, tell me something worth reading that book you’re always holding.❞ He gestures with his chin towards the book now resting by Ace’s side onto the bed. ❝You have never heard about the Akashic Records, have you?❞ Looking at the blond with skeptical eyes, he coaxes him to continue with a simple arch of an eyebrow. ❝This book contains scripts of Orience’s past, present and future.❞ To further make his point, Ace picks it up and makes a small gesture to gather Kurasame’s attention to it. ❝It takes time to decipher its content, but so far I am able to recognize the events the records talk about.❞ He takes a small pause to scrutinize the indigo haired’s face, obviously skeptical to the matter still–– understandably so. ❝Granted that you cannot seem to believe me yet, why do you not ask me something?❞

❝Tell me about the near future, then. Something related to me.❞ Although it is the most reasonable to ask as the future is the only time that one can verify that what was said will occur, Ace cannot tell he was ready for this. No matter how broken he may be, he can still rely on logic and reason when he doesn’t trust his emotional intelligence all things considered. And so roseate lips press into a thin line, eyes descending onto the book lying onto his lap. How does one sugarcoat someone’s future demise? Even if the blond is intent into stopping it from happening, that doesn’t change the fact that it occurred, regardless.

Ultimately, Ace takes a deep breath before directing his gaze at the other. ❝Near the end of the first month of summer, Class Zero will be commanded to partake in a highly confidential mission near the core of Milites as a means to prevent any more MA production.❞ Another brief pause, this time to ensure that Kurasame is following him which he confirms with a single dip of his head. ❝Amidst the mission, the Queen of Concordia will invoke the Fabula Pact, however, she will die. Milites and Concordia will blame Class Zero despite being innocent and Rubrum will be against both nations. About two months later, the war will split into two different fronts and in the clash on the big bridge against Milites, you will—❞ Blond strands sway with the shake of his head mid sentence. No, this time he won’t. ❝You died there, assisting lady Caetuna’s grand summoning alongside many other cadets.❞

Once more, cyan eyes fall onto his lap facing the impossibility to keep staring at Kurasame in the eye. His salvation plays a major role in the reason why Ace decided to do a gamble and test what he can do after awakening in ancient times he couldn’t recognize. There is no need to look at the man anymore to sense a heavy ambiance in the room, and so he tries to lighten it with a more positive light. ❝Kazusa Futahito... he is a strange man, but a good one at heart. His investigation drove him into seeing part of your memories alongside a holographic image of what you looked like.❞

When he finally dares to look upwards to check on the man, blueberry eyes narrow subtly in solemnity at the sight of Kurasame’s closed eyes and scowl. ❝Kurasame...❞ He calls his name with a gentleness hardly ever displayed only to the same man he’s currently facing. Even in times when the commander allowed himself to be vulnerable before his very eyes, the sight of him struggling with his sentiments was rare and far in between. Whenever Ace perceived his change in mood, there wasn’t a single time he didn’t leave the man in a much needed solitude to recompose himself without facing the shame of being exposed to someone else. Not this time.

No more seconds were wasted in taking action as the blond leaves the book atop the bed and rouses to hold the crumbling man in his embrace. Many lives Kurasame spent warning him before a more intimate relationship took place that an empty vessel such as him has little to offer, giving the sensation that there was barely anything worth keeping himself alive. Now, he understands that he never found peace in knowing that Rubrum’s government still seeks to dispose of him like it tried when he was barely 19. When Kurasame tenses in his touch, one would think such comfort disturbs what little mental stability he has left until Ace leans in to mumble near his ear in what he hopes is a comforting voice. ❝Give yourself a break, weep to your heart’s content. I will not go anywhere.❞

In a matter of minutes of struggle, he feels tears drenching the black turtleneck jumper he wears, making him give the crumbling man a little squeeze in silent support. It is hard to not give his everything, being fully cognisant that it might scare Kurasame away without knowing where would so much love for him come from–– so hard that Ace struggles to keep himself composed and strong for him. It doesn’t matter if he doesn’t love him in this life. Despite the faint memory of pain that comes with a heartbreak, ever threatening to worsen, Ace sings. He will find happiness, he knows. It doesn’t matter if it won’t be with him by his side.

His singing stops the moment Ace senses the man starting to calm down–– or perhaps exhaustion is taking a toll after crying for so long. ❝I vow that it won’t happen. Not as long as I live.❞ He whispers once more to afford him some comfort which he plans to see through no matter what. Though the lack of response doesn’t faze him, the fact that Kurasame’s weight is leaning onto him does. Blueberry irises soften as soon as he realizes the man has fallen asleep, and so he moves him mindful to not awaken him in order to pick him up properly and carry him to the bed, where he lies him with as much care and covers him with a blanket. Feeling bold, Ace reaches to wipe away what little residues of tear remained stubbornly on the corners of his eyes. Undeserving to let himself linger more, he draws back and pats Tonberry’s head before finally retreating from Kurasame’s room.

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome VII: May Agito excise the gods’ whims. ┊Red wings of salvation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​ wished upon a star: “Why are you looking at me like that?”

Even in the comfort and safety Ace recalls having slept for many cycles, he had a hard time to slumber. A stark contrast to his younger self when he accustomed to sleep everywhere at anytime without a worry in the world. He watched the man resting beside him sleep, moonlight rays grazing over his visible face that he conceals behind a mask for most of his time in an attempt to hide his burn marks from prying eyes or perhaps forget himself the reasoning and trauma behind them.

Now that the man has a better perspective on the workings of this world, he wonders. How much must hurt him to look at himself in the mirror and being unable to reminisce what happened?

Weren’t for the fact that Ace was so wary of everything, he may have found an answer on his own after seeing Kurasame rise from a Class Third cadet to one of the Four Champions of Rubrum and the most feared Ice Reaper. He’s tired of reminiscing, of being used for someone’s whims, of not being allowed to rest when that’s what he should be doing right now. Needless to say, he is broken beyond repair.

However, being permitted to spend the night with the indigo haired gives his shaken heart a sense of temporary respite. He who perished in a war fully cognizant that the top brass craved his demise since he was barely an adult is right here–– he survived that event with his presence and the higher-ups’ treatment had softened with his intervention. Tempus Finis is to take place whether he decides to assist Rubrum or not, all it takes is one nation to topple above the rest and cause an unbalance.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” Ace was so drawn in his thoughts that he failed to notice Kurasame’s awakening until he heard his mumble, albeit his eyes mirror sleepiness still. The blond’s own soften. Where there shouldn’t be any trace of sentimentality anymore there’s a subtle glimpse that only he could elicit in every single one of their lives shared as lovers. “Nothing of import that you ought to concern yourself with.” Though his words are cold, his main intention is to coax the commander officer to go back to sleep. Ultimately, Ace covers him better with the blanket once in disarray byproduct of unconscious actions within his slumber. “Rest.”

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome VII: May Agito excise the gods’ whims. ┊Red wings of salvation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​​ wished upon a star: No matter the cost or the consequences, no matter the sacrifice or the blood spilled; in the end, denying an universal truth that became obvious even for himself wasn’t a smart move anymore. The way his life turned out to be like a shared picture, never intended to question the veracity of his own life choices. He was a cadet, aspirant to be the best of the best, partially living a couple’s life with Rubrum’s Trump Card. Sat over the sofa, arms crossed over the bosom while thoughts tracing a trail of troublesome cavillations, the blond mane of Ace came to sight. An usual sight, used to the male’s presence. That was the problem, wasn’t it—? Kurasame leaned carefully, slightly, upon the cadet’s frame. Observing gently, stare caught by the attention of azure gaze. There relied a question mark evidently painted across his pale, girlish visage. Kurasame looked for a few seconds, in silence, before saying. “We should have sex.”

Never once Ace was told that he would come to connect with someone as deeply as he does with Kurasame. Incapable of getting along in a first moment, their difference of ideals and process thinking ceased to be a problem the moment they accepted it. Or rather, the Class First cadet came to terms with the reasons why Ace differs so much despite being so high-achieving. Casual nights spent together either talking or enjoying the other’s presence in quiescence turned into weeks, thus they simply have grown accustomed to live with one another.

Ace for one liked to have someone to return to when Akademeia required his services as the elite cadet of Class Zero he is, to have someone acknowledging his hard work and assuaging his exhaustion just with a smile. He who never knew what he was fighting for but simply did, was slowly finding a reason to do his best. Soon, his wish to protect this place so his friend could have a relatively peaceful life would expand to share Kurasame’s wish to protect everyone.

Genuine surprise crossed the blond’s snowy features when the Ice Reaper spilled the beans eventually after a rather awkward moment of being scrutinized without saying a single thing. For a moment, Ace swore his heart skipped a beat which he ignored. “...What are you saying?” He finally responds, brows furrowing slightly in bewilderment. “Until now, we’ve been living together as if we’re a couple.” Unsure of whether to call him out for the stupidity he just blurted out or make him sleep on the carpet if he still wished to slumber in his chambers, a fair brow rises as his hand rests atop his hip. “Your point?”

“Well, we’ve been sleeping in the same bed, eating together and even bathed together in that spring after our shared mission.” He explains, counting with his finger every thing of his enumeration list. “All we have left is to have sex.” If things weren’t awful enough when Kurasame spoke out his idea, this surely made it. Ace’s forming scowl was inevitable as he lets out an exasperated sigh. “I don’t think that’s how it works.”

Not that Ace had any idea of how that was supposed to work anyways, albeit logic told him this is wrong. “Think about it, Ace.” The indigo haired rouses from where he was sitting to approach him, seriousness mirroring his emerald eyes. “My point in all of this is to say that we have been intimate enough to be seen as a couple, even if we never were. Wouldn’t you like to be more intimate with me than that––?” Ace’s eyes widen slightly at the query, feeling suddenly how his heart warms in a way he doesn’t think he ever felt when Kurasame’s gaze softens.

This isn’t some wild occurrence the cadet has despite his usually cool demeanor, he’s being sincere in his suggestion. Rose hues dust Ace’s pale cheeks as he drops his gaze and his lips press in a thin line. His explanation and the idea the blond has about romantic love match. Though he never truly knew what that is, he managed to consider what would it be like. Someone to share his life with no matter how intimately with the promise of loyalty and acceptance. All this time, Ace has shared his own with Kurasame without feeling any kind of discomfort and he would keep doing it. Now, the question is...

Would he be comfortable to engage in the level of intimacy Kurasame suggested?

“If I were to engage into any sexual endeavor, I wouldn’t want it to be limited to a one night stand.” He confesses, cyan irises looking straight into jade ones despite the embarrassment that provokes him speaking about such topic. The newfound tenderness behind the caress to the side of his face sends his heart in a rushing frenzy when Kurasame extends his hand for it, gaze as soft as he never saw before. “Who said anything about a one night stand...?” In that moment, Ace’s inner doubt was answered as he feels the other’s breath ghosting over his face with every inch closer he got. If it’s true they’ve been leading a shared life befitting a semi couple, he wants to be romantically involved with him.

And thus cornflower eyes narrow slightly upon realizing that Kurasame wouldn’t make a move on him without his consent and agreement, arms slowly slide their way to coil around his neck in a weak embrace. “Then, make love to me.” He whispers, taking notice of the way his lips curl in a soft smile. “I want to know all about how you wish to have me.”

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power— the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​ wished upon a star: 🧡 (to hold my muse and run your fingers through their hair).

Quiescence fills the candle-lit ambiance, occasionally muted by the twilight rain hitting gently the windows. Emerging from the bathroom after concluding with the last of his every night routine prior to going to bed, Ace is welcomed to the sight of the indigo haired commander resting his back against the headboard while reading an inform from the last mission. And thus mindful to not break his concentration, he treads across the room barefoot until reaching to the bed. Little did he know that despite the fact that the commander didn’t look at him at all, he was awaiting for him to join him on the bed–– which Ace would eventually realize upon taking notice of the way Kurasame repositions himself to accommodate the blond beside him to let him rest his head against his shoulder.

Roseate lips curl in a gentle smile, drawing a content sigh as he nestles his head comfortably against the man while casting his azure eyes towards the inform he was reading. Every nightfall Ace spent out of Rubran territory in a mission, he missed the tenderness and safety Kurasame never failed to provide him in his subtle ways. From the way his viridescent eyes soften when they are alone to the way his presence alone afforded a peace that challenged the one he always knew ever since he was able to spend time alone without his siblings.

A light chuckle abandons his mouth the moment Ace feels the other’s fingers carding through his pale locks, garnering a nuzzle on the soft skin of his neck in retaliation. ❝You’ve always liked my hair, have you not?❞ He whispers, unwilling to break the comfort of the silence should he rise his voice just a tad more. To his inquiry, Kurasame turns his face slightly to press a kiss atop his crown accompanied with a hum in confirmation before resuming his reading. Truth to be said, Ace never had any kind of inconformity or insecurity with his physical appearance, as he knows fully well he always seeks to look presentable. Nevertheless, hearing his beloved acknowledge his liking for him elicits a spark within him.

Before he knew it, Kurasame’s full attention was on him when he placed the inform on the nightstand and turned to bring his body closer to his own, in his arms. Ace’s eyes close, hand grazing gently his chest in search of his heart which he adored to feel its rhythm or listen to it when their position permitted it. This time, it seems the Heavenly King took advantage of it to bury his face in the blond’s tresses and breathe in it–– a habit Ace always assumed as silent worship. Even when unspoken, he knows Kurasame missed him too.

Fair lashes flutter open and he moves his head to press a small kiss on his chin before locking their eyes, time after allowing the man to take in the scent of his freshly washed hair. His hand glides from his chest to his neck to cup the side of his face, thumb caressing what scars it can reach with uttermost gentleness to not hurt him even though it has been close to a decade since they marred his skin. ❝I have heard that more peaceful days are coming near soon.❞ The corners of his lips lift in a small smile that reaches his softening eyes as he caresses his face. ❝We’ll be able to spend more time like this at long last... although these days I realized something. I have a request to ask you.❞ The smile on his face widens at the sight of emerald eyes softening seconds before the man leans in to kiss his lips. ❝Out with it.❞

❝It is okay to live together?❞ He asks after a pause, feeling daring for asking such a sincere question. ❝Not just the weekends like we established until now... but the rest of the days too.❞

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome V: Downfall of the constellations’ nemeses. ┊Sky of despair.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​​ wished upon a star: It always felt strange in the base of the guts to acknowledge the truth of a better, yet unfortunate future, there where life wasn’t a choice and, therefore, the ancient belief of an almighty crystal would guide the world to salvation. A man of stern nature that wasn’t exactly the ideal of a time traveler, nonetheless, he chose to believe, despite the strong sentiment of going nuts by the mere thought.

This world that so much craved for the guidance of another, this world that little cared about the grief of loss, this world that Kurasame loved to ache and yet felt so dull now that the Crystal took a big part of his memories... What were men, aside from only a pile of experiences stacked one after another in a cycle of learning and forgetting? What was he, aside from an empty shell?

Just let me cry a little bit longer, he thought once. Just once.

To feel something, to understand the magnitude of his own past and future, he had to dig deep and profound in that one senior soldier that approached with the excuse of saving the ones he loved dearly. He didn’t believe... until he had to in order to survive the winter and war. Ace always spoke so uncommonly soft about the relationship they might had beyond the present, always hiding some part of that long book that Kurasame Susaya wasn’t acquainted with in the slightest. He didn’t have to in order to fall for him... again, sort of.

Avoiding his presence, giving a space that Kurasame didn’t ask for with words yet the blond man more often than not figuring out the most outrageous, mysterious of his moods. Something felt off from day one, long time passed since someone understood that cranky old man behavior of his with such a natural easiness. Figuring out how sentiments felt wasn’t a subject Kurasame lacked skills in. The commander fell in love once, in youth, and somehow someone loved him, maybe. The details were blurry... as every other memory of his.

He kissed him in his old room, sat on his old desk, watching that same old ceiling getting dark with the same old sunset reflecting in the window. The man scanned his face while their lips met, holding a second to grasp a trace of Ace’s expressions. Lips taking distance, everything sparkled with that same old youth. Damn.

“Explain to me...” He said, looking at Ace. “Why kissing you feels stupidly natural—?”

How does one defy the Crystal’s will when it is believed to be absolute? No matter if Ace had chosen to become a l’Cie on his own volition in some of his past lives, whatever it is the Crystals seek has always been a mystery to him and many others. The battle on the big bridge was bound to occur, and so it was Lady Caetuna’s intervention to summon in order to have the upper hand against the Militesi fronts. 1000 souls of skilful sorcerers was the demand to summon one of the Verbotene Eidolons and Kurasame was sent into the fray to be one of them.

It was a fact that Ace wished nothing more in that moment than saving Kurasame from this fate so he may continue on living, and for this he requires the Secondus l’Cie’s assistance into this. Thine will to amend the martyrs’ fate is strong. Nevertheless, it takes more than will to change the cogs’ direction. So I must ask: is thy strength enough to compensate for the loss of a Verbotene Eidolon should I acquiesce to help you?

Undoubtedly, there was much to lose if his plan didn’t go well. Rubrum’s loss which he wasn’t willing to witness with his own eyes and become a bringer of a much terrible destiny than what he lived before, more casualties, the impossibility to save his family and the man he loves–– even the fate of this l’Cie was being handed to him. However, Ace was never a madman to gamble without knowing his victory is absolute.

And thus, the struggle of leading a life of multiple centenaries such as herself’s as a l’Cie came to an end after summoning other Eidolons that wouldn’t require sacrifices. Without any more casualties, Rubrum garnered the upper hand against the Militesi front in the battle of the big bridge like Ace remembers from the last cycle–– at the cost of his safety which was endangered in one week long coma he eventually awakened from.

The last Heavenly King he swore to protect and see through living on made it alive, his presence in his chambers is as much proof Ace can have. All that is left for him now is see that he leads a life of happiness like he deserves. What he would not expect, nevertheless, is that Kurasame would choose him from all people to share it with.

Cornflower eyes widen as much as they are able within their sockets when the man leans in to press a kiss atop his lips without any warning–– nor any word that Ace could make him think Kurasame professed any kind of romantic sentiments towards him. His mind spirals with many inquiries that prevent the blond from reacting to the tender action. Why is this happening? There is naught he can offer him like he accustomed to do when he was much innocent and less broken–– so why would he fall in love with him?

❝Explain to me...❞  He said, looking at Ace. ❝Why kissing you feels stupidly natural—?❞  To his words, the younger man blinks before his gaze descends and a single tear falls down his unmarred skin. As the fact that Kurasame harbors romantic feelings for him starts to sink in, a long buried and familiar emotion starts to blossom and warm his heart while the man reaches out to wipe his tears away, unbeknownst of his surprise upon seeing him in such a vulnerable and emotional state he would not have guessed he had given how stoic and stern Ace always remained.

❝Metempsychosis...❞ He finally answers, voice still heavy with overflowing sentiments he believed were long lost and forgiven by now. ❝Cycle by cycle, we always ended up becoming one another’s significant other.❞ Slowly, Ace rises his gaze to meet with Kurasame’s viridescent one. ❝You may not remember what you lived in prior lives, but your soul does. One could argue that even unaware of this, you might be conditioned to act as per your soul’s experiences in other lives but... Ultimately, it is your choice.❞ Roseate lips curl into a trembling smile that reaches his glassy eyes, tears still threatening to continue emerging from their corners. ❝Even though I gave up all hope that you would love me in this life too as I have nothing to offer you... you still chose to love me against all odds. Thank you.❞

Though Kurasame remained unmoving for as long as he listened to the blond’s explanation, his eyes reflect the turmoil of emotions and conflicting thoughts that may come from this. He chose to trust him before and the fact that he is living now is proof of his reliability. Why shouldn’t he believe him in this too? Mindful to not break Ace any further than he seems to have shattered, the indigo haired pushes away a few pale strands that cover his forehead. ❝I’m breathing right now because of you. Should there be anyone who needs to be grateful, that’s me.❞ With as much care, he leans again to press a gentle kiss atop his forehead before drawing back to look at him with sincere eyes. ❝Why did you never tell me? Why hide something that hurt you so much?❞

❝How do you tell someone that does not even know you that you love them and that you’ve been lovers in past lives?❞ Ace counters, eyes softening with understanding when Kurasame’s own harden slightly. Rising one of his hands, he covers the Heavenly King’s with tenderness. ❝No matter the sorrow, none of that really mattered as long as I could avoid your death. From past experiences in our multiple lives when you looked so broken and almost dead in life... I knew you can find happiness and so you could in this life–– even if that would be without me.❞

Ace feels Kurasame’s hands stroking subtly his face in silent response, perhaps in thought moments before kissing his lips again. This time, Ace welcomed his lips as he always would and reciprocated the tender act of affection he missed so. ❝Have you ever considered that the source of happiness you talk about could be you...?❞ The commander whispers, earning an apologetical smile that draws a sigh from him before pressing their foreheads together to look into his cyan irises. ❝From now on, you don’t have to hide anything from me. I want to know all about you, no matter how good or bad that can be.❞ A small nod of Ace’s head is everything he needed to sigh once more and close his eyes without breaking the physical contact. ❝Good.❞

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome VII: May Agito excise the gods’ whims. ┊Red wings of salvation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @agrothora​ wished upon a star: “ well , hello sleeping beauty . you fell asleep on me . ” [ Kurasame → Ace ]

Long has it been when few of the cadets that had the fortune to spot Class Zero’s sole cadet learned about his sleeping tendencies. To many, it is one of the almost nonexistent facts that make the wild card something other than a perfect soldier–– as for Ace, it holds an importance unknown to everyone. Slumbering has become one of the ways his subconsciousness has to be released and act as per his soul’s wishes and experiences. Oftentimes, this is a clear sign that the young blond is attuned to the world in a special way others aren’t which frequently fades into the oblivion of lost memories regulated by the rules of this world.

Recently, he has grown accustomed to slumber within the company of his beloved after realising how much more enjoyable it is rather than sleeping alone. Some afternoons spent together were punctuated with Ace’s infamous naps whilst the Class First cadet focused on reading for his own self-satisfaction or study for whatever exams may come soon. This time, he finds himself having slept atop Kurasame’s chest. Ah... that’s right. He has fallen asleep to the sound of his heartbeat.

“Well, hello sleeping beauty. You fell asleep on me.” Amusement which Ace would take time to notice yet laces the indigo haired’s voice as he stares at the other, lips curling in a teasing smile. To his words, the zero blinks before pushing himself up to look at his lover with unfocused eyes in time to feel his hand land atop his head.

A few more seconds pass to dispel the fog clouding his mind to come down to a realisation.

“...are you courting me?” He inquires, cyan irises filled with sincerity finally blinking into focus. The motive why Kurasame still finds the need to court him after they’re long past the crushing phase of their relationship is beyond his understanding, confusion further enhanced by his growing smirk and the rise of an eyebrow. “What do you think?” Often praised for his delicate features and rare beauty for a young man like himself, Ace has grown accustomed to hear this kind of comments from other cadets and older individuals both as a snide remark or a genuine one.

Ace climbs his body so they remain at the same height, eyes softening in thought. The fact that the one he loves finds him beautiful makes a warm sensation to blossom within him. Ultimately, he allows his weight to descend to press a soft and chaste kiss onto his lips seconds before smiling himself. “That would make you my prince, then.” Again, that equally playful and amused expression returns to his lover’s features. “Oh?” “You wouldn’t make the cut to be a decent one, regardless.”

Curious to understand his logic, Kurasame pushes his own weight up onto his elbows whilst Ace sits back onto his lap. “Mind explaining yourself?” “Well, for instance the prince is supposed to awaken the sleeping beauty with a kiss.” The blond starts to justify his logic based on his memories of that fairytale he once read —out of curiosity to know its plot after hearing from some female cadets expressing their dreamy wish to be awakened like that—, hand rising to hold his chin between two fingers. “So the gist is... not only I woke up on my own, but I was the one who––” Before he had time to finish the sentence, a round of giggles and soft laughter erupts from both of them the moment Kurasame swiftly impulses himself to capture Ace into his arms and fall back on the soft mattress.

The laughter-filled dormitory falls into quiescence after one last sigh into relaxation. “I might need to consider changing my repertory of sayings.” Kurasame says, fingers carding through silky blonde locks whilst the other rests on top of him. “It would be definitely much easier if a certain someone didn’t have to be so finicky.” A light chuckle abandons Ace’s lips as he nestles his head against his collarbone. “That might be true. However... good or bad, you’re still charming.”

#agrothora #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Give up the past and move on. ┊Ace.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power— the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​ wished upon a star: ”You are not an object. …And I will not allow anyone to treat you thus. Never.”

The Concordian kingdom is known by its vast mystic and natural places, utterly devoid of any technology that could deform this beauty he has only seen in pictures. It was refreshing without a doubt to be sent in a mission that doesn’t require of his military aptitudes but rather, diplomatic ones as an envoy to see the Queen. Class Zero has already made a name of itself worldwide, it was only normal to earn an ally’s queen interest as well as a sign of peace between both nations.

Who better for that task than one of the most excellent Class Zero members alongside his Commander officer?

Although Ace believes the top brass could have chosen Queen or Trey for their capabilities as well, he feels fortunate for being sent out afoot to the neighbour kingdom. Rubrum does not possess too many airships in order to embark in a faster journey, thus there is lack thereof for this kind of missions and they rather save them for dire emergencies under more bellicose circumstances. It is certainly nice to adapt a more diplomatic demeanor for a change. Ah, how he wished Kurasame could see it the same way.

Despite his own happiness to go outside with him for once instead of keeping more intimate activities behind closed doors, Ace has noticed Kurasame’s sour mood ever since they departed from Rubrum’s capital that continued on until they settled at night amidst an annexed forest to Concordian territory.

”You are not an object. …And I will not allow anyone to treat you thus. Never.”

The man’s claim takes Ace aback genuinely after an entire day in silence unless they were in the company of another that required of their services in one way or another. So that’s the reason why his mood was so bad today. The blond had noticed the way the Commandant talked about him as if he were nothing more than a performing monkey. Accustomed as he may be to be treated as a mere weapon doing the top brass’ bidding, Ace isn’t ignorant to the treatment he gets. However, the truth is that he knows no better after leading a life for the strict purpose of fighting since he was just six. So long as nobody interferes with his safety, all of them can complain whatever they want about him for all he cares.

Uncertain of what to say, the cadet’s gaze turns towards the fireplace they made to keep warm for the night. As his commander, Ace had expected him to be happy for choosing him. This would certainly be a topic of conversation amongst many in pride–– he thought Kurasame would be proud of him. Surprisingly, that wasn’t the case. “You needn’t concern yourself so much, really. It’s––” He starts to reduce the severity of this topic rather awkwardly before the indigo haired cuts him. “No. It’s not.” His cyan eyes return to look into Kurasame’s emerald ones, hardened for his adverse sentiments towards this while Ace’s brows knit in conflict.

How does he tell him that he’s long grown accustomed to this? That he accepted already that things are the way they are and that they could be worse? Soon, realization dawns on him: there is no way.

Inevitably, Ace’s gaze drops with nothing he could say to appease Kurasame’s burdened mind. He’s always so kind, worrying about him even when he doesn’t voice it out. Quiescence fills the space between them until the man slips his arm over his shoulders to bring him closer in a half embrace that helps the blond calm down. He isn’t unnerved because of him, but because of everyone who treats him like an object they can dispose of with ease when they no longer find him use. Even though Ace can’t understand this yet, it warms his heart to think that he cares so much about him. More than Ace does himself.

“Kurasame... thank you.” He finally says, not long before easing against him and nuzzling the other’s jaw lovingly in hopes he will calm down. This–– this is the primary reason why Ace was so happy to go somewhere else with Kurasame and show his affection for him openly for the first time. His lips curl in a heartfelt smile when he opens his eyes and meets his beloved’s softened ones as he reaches out to caress the other side of his face, feeling the burn scars marring his skin. He’s beautiful, still. He has always been in Ace’s eyes when he started to understand more about the intricacies of love, a foreign concept for him until Kurasame made it blossom within him. His smile grows slightly wider as he closes his eyes to welcome the other’s lips on him in a tender, lingering kiss before pressing his forehead against his own. “...You make me feel human.”

#hollyclovers #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome V: Downfall of the constellations’ nemeses. ┊Sky of despair.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @agrothora​ wished upon a star: 💓to listen to my muse’s heartbeat [ Kurasame → Ace ]

Since the beginnings of his arrival to the Akademeia, nothing but amazement and respect from many arose when Ace assisted in the Operation Reconquista of the Rubran capital, soon to be conquered too lest a turn in the events was made soon. Known for his impeccable performances in missions and getting rid of the behemoth horde that instilled fear in everyone to even enter or emerge from the academic institutions, the sole Class Zero member has always given example of improvement to many whom now seek to one become as strong and dependable and reliable as he is save for those who wish to defeat him in combat with the naïve thinking that his cards are useless.

There is no doubt that he was raised as the perfect soldier, meant to work alone or in company of others whenever teamwork maneauvers were needed. As Doctor Arecia puts it: Ace alone could comprise an army of one without issues and only a few poisoned with ill sentiments of envy would argue against that logic.

Nevertheless, his perfection was heavily jeopardised in a certain occurrence out of his own wish to do so two years later. Known as he may be as a phantom for his renowned skills of telekinesis and easy dematerialisation of his own body when needed to avoid attacks, Ace threw that when the necessity to protect someone dear arose. A young man of Class First whom he slowly realised on his own he fell in love with, even if he ended up dating a lady of noble upbringing. His reckless decision led him to take a fatal blow that otherwise would have reached Kurasame. Should he decide against acting upon it, Kurasame could have potentially fallen to the attack.

The event in itself is still blurry to Ace’s mind, salvaging just a few words he reminisces having confessed to the indigo haired before Death’s kiss took him, albeit only temporarily until Doctor Arecia deigned to resuscitate him: I think I love you.

Unbeknownst of how long has it been since he fell unconscious, the blond awakens to the sound of some machines monitoring his vital signs within the confines of his room. A weight oppressing his chest snaps him out of the trance his mind drifted to–– perhaps it has been longer than he wished the time he spent slumbering. And so cornflower irises descend to see the culprit of the additional weight atop his chest he should not feel, coming to see a familiar, indigo mane.

Gathering what little strength he had in him, Ace slides his hand to touch his head, causing an immediate reaction the moment Kurasame snaps his head upwards. Emerald eyes widen at the sight of an awakened Ace, soon to narrow into unspoken sentiments and an immeasurable guilt reflected in them. “It’s beating...” He whispers, trembling lips lifting in a weak smile when the other takes his hand in his with a delicacy never met before in him.

Deluded as his perception might be, the blond shakes his head within the limit of his possibilities as a silent reassurance moments before struggling to speak anew, spending the last ounce of his strength to assuage the cadet’s troubled heart before falling to slumber once more. “Don’t feel guilty... everything is okay. You are all right.”

#agrothora #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Give up the past and move on. ┊Ace.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power; the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome I: Seat of power— the person closest to Agito. ┊Land of lamentation.┊

[reginrokkr]

✩ @hollyclovers​ wished upon a star: ( takes hand, puts it over heart ) “This is what I feel when I’m with you. And I’m powerless to stop it.” [Kurasame → Ace.

For the longest time, Ace had thought his existence was meaningless beyond the talent in excelling in everything —in combat specially— Mother always praised him for. Unable to really comprehend what he was made to fight for or other basic things any other human being is perfectly cognizant such as family, friends or significant other, the blond watched his life passing by with an indescribable emptiness in his heart.

Never in his life the cadet would ever think freedom would be his salvation, far from it. Given the lack of human interaction with others, he was more lost than ever in a place that suffocated him when he failed to live up to the expectations of acting like any other.

These existential inquiries frequent Ace’s mind more than he would like to admit, particularly when time constraints won’t allow him to enjoy the company of his own beacon of light. Ever since he was acquainted with Kurasame’s warmth and kindness, he soon realized he needed it as the air he breathes. Alas, he knows better than plaguing his mind with his problems too. For what are they more than two broken individuals that happen to be one another’s respite?

However, Kurasame knows him even in his most quiescent moments. Despite how little he expresses what he believes in more personal matters —as long as he doesn’t see fit to throw another dose of reality with his straightforward demeanor—, he has learned to see through every little detail Ace leaves behind.

Intent to make Ace snap out of his reverie that mirrors in his eyes nothing but emptiness and a more subtle sadness, the man takes his hand and puts it over his heart. The moment Ace’s eyes come back to life and his brows arch, he knows he achieved what he wanted. “Kurasame...?”

“This is what I feel when I’m with you. And I’m powerless to stop it.” Cornflower eyes widen slightly before directing them to emerald ones that exude profound sentiments anyone would question if the cold commander harbors to begin with. Although confusion still lingers in his heart, Ace feels as if those words pressed something within him. Ultimately, his eyes soften before descending to where his hand lingers atop his chest and caresses it slightly. “Am I really the catalyst of this?” Roseate lips curl in a sorrowful smile, the weight of his negative thoughts making him skeptic of such words even if at heart he knows Kurasame would never say something if he didn’t mean it.

A pair of strong arms envelop his smaller figure in an embrace, lips pressing a kiss atop the blond’s crown before resting the side of his face against head. “You heard me.” The confirmation that his words were indeed sincere makes Ace exhale a shaky breath as he rests his head against Kurasame’s shoulder. All his life, he believed his only use was on the battlefield to supply what others couldn’t. Knowing that he’s able to provoke such beautiful sentiments despite his broken and frozen heart byproduct of harrowing experiences of a long past causes tears to form in the corners of his eyes.

He can make someone happy too, at least.

Moved by his words, Ace clenches onto the clothes as he allows himself to be dragged by his bubbling feelings after repressing them for so long and sobs quietly. “...Thank you.”

#hollyclovers #✧･ﾟ*⋆ Let your prayers be heard; the merciful always listens. ┊Ask.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Tome V: Downfall of the constellations’ nemeses. ┊Sky of despair.┊ #✯･ﾟ*⋆ Give up the past and move on. ┊Ace.┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Crystallize your sorrow into everlasting frost to reach the promise of light.┊Ace × Kurasame┊ #◟༺✩༻◞ Let your prayers be heard; never cease believing in a miracle. ┊Ask.┊