Oath [BL; Book 2]

60

Xiao was sat on the rail meditating, Aether was sat on the floor closely near him curled up as he pondered his thoughts. Paimon was off on her own adventure wherever it is she normally goes. The silence between them didn't bother. Aether left him to his routines simply greeting him when he returned or left. However, he felt he owed him an explanation though every time he tried to speak on the subject, Xiao would simply say it was fine and that there was no need for him to worry.

He even went as far as saying Aether misunderstood and needed more time to think about it.

They had both come to an understanding previously, and both accepted what happened, but Aether still had questions. Xiao had ruthlessly chose to murder Feiyu rather than digging deeper to the root of the problem. Having witnessed his merciless behavior more than once now, he wanted to know if Xiao was truly alright.

Looking over at him he reached touching his sleeve that sway gently in the warm breeze. Opening his eyes, Xiao had felt Aether moved finally and looked at him. He smiled and quietly said, "Sorry, I wasn't trying to bother you." His gold eyes were easy to stare into.

Xiao's eyes often brightened and darkened, his pupils never much changed from their shape, neither shrinking nor dilating. They were captivating, and having them stare made Aether nervous.

"Um." He averted his own eyes shy, "I-is everything alright?"

"....." he was quiet then tilted his head, "Are you refering to my karmic debt? Hm," he looked forward and closed his eyes again meditating, "there are no issues. It is tamed."

"Not that." Though he never minded hearing it was alright. "Are you alright?"

Disturbed, unsure, Xiao opened his eyes again. This time he had to think. He physically felt alright, there were no alterations to his mind or any concerns. His small wounds had already healed and the karma was fine too. However now that he thought about it he never suspected Aether would ask about his mental health. As bold as he is it wasn't uncommon for him to ask such personal things.

So to answer him he said, "I.. am well." He felt so, "You are safe, and that is all that matters to me."

"Mm," he smiled feeling giddy because of his response, "even with what... happened?"

"......" he knew it would lead to that and said, "It is nothing to worry of."

Aether curled up more, "But I'm... dirty-" Xiao slipped from the rail landing in front of him. Aether was surprised when Xiao held his face in his hands.

Stern eyes gazed with such deep affection and hurt when he had said that. "You are not." He told him clearly, "Nothing in this world can taint you, but me." Whether he was implying something interesting or simply comforting him, Aether smiled. Sitting down in front of him now Xiao said, "You were unaware, you are not to blame. I... can't say I fully understand your fear, but.." he was making clear progress of coming to terms with several human actions. Aether could tell so from him openly saying he couldn't fully understand and that made him exceedingly happy. "I engaged in battle not because of such accusations held against him, hm - or perhaps your thinking is logical," he made a face and seemed to admit it, "could it truly have been him?"

"Then what was the main reason?"

"He is tainted by karmic debt." Xiao crossed his arms giving Aether space, "No ordinary mortal would have survived as long as he, nor you, did. It is my duty to rid the world of such enegry."

"So you thought.. he was a monster?"

"No, I am fully aware of his being."

"And you... still?"