Archive of Our Own

How grand is it, that a single night could mark the beginning of a new life, unfettered by the burdens of a reticent heart? How absolutely blessed, to feel the reawakening of passions long since buried—to witness the sun rise over gloomy skies, when once it had seemed as if the night would never end.

That night, when two had become one, hidden away amidst the candlelight and far from any prying eyes. That night, the first of many yet to come.

Right here, side by side, where they were always meant to be.

Together.

A sense of calm washes over Barok as he holds Kazuma in his arms, the wall that he’d built around his heart for the past decade crumbling down in an instant. Piece by piece, brick by solitary brick, it collapses all around him. To describe this sensation as “peculiar” would be an understatement, to say the least. It’s surreal, a feeling of vulnerability he hasn’t felt in a very long time, as if he’s made of glass and all the world can see right through him and into the depths of his very soul.

And it certainly seems as if that’s what Kazuma sees as he looks up at him now. There’s no lack of compassion upon his face, not a single trace of misunderstanding within the soft glow of the candles reflecting in his eyes—so radiant that Barok is certain he’ll lose himself completely if he gazes too deeply into that light.

…How had I ever allowed anything to come between us before?

Yet, for all the joy that this moment holds, he still can’t quite shake the apprehension eating away at him. Can he learn to live without that self-imposed barrier, as he had once before? Will he truly be able to move forward from the sad, lonely existence he’d grown so accustomed to?

He must, for the alternative is simply unthinkable.

A smile forms at the edges of Barok’s lips as those last remnants of uncertainty fade away. Whatever the future may hold, he’ll face it without regret, and he doesn’t need words to know that Kazuma feels the same.

And sure enough, Kazuma is quick to return that smile, looking as peaceful as a dream. He exhales a deep sigh, parting his lips to speak…

But the familiar voice that rings in his ears now doesn’t fall from his lover’s tongue. No, this one is faint and distant, echoing from somewhere else entirely beyond his reach.

He feels a gentle nudge on his shoulder, although from whom he still can’t quite tell.

The words are clearer now, and all but impossible to ignore. Still, Barok closes his eyes in an attempt to will that voice away.

Leave me be.

It’s already too late. Try as he might to hold onto this perfect moment, his plea only goes unheard as the scene around him disperses as easily as mist in the wind.

“...Barok?”

There can be no mistaking Kazuma’s voice this time, nor the blinding glare of the late afternoon sun as Barok blinks his eyes open. For a split second, he almost forgets where he is, so vivid are the images that linger at the edge of his conscious mind that he can scarcely believe it had only been a dream. Or rather, a memory. Every touch, every whispered word, it had all felt just as real in his mind’s eye as it had on that night. If only he could hold onto this feeling until the end of his days…

But, of course, as his vision finally adjusts and the view through the carriage window comes into focus—a view of cloudy skies and the rolling hills of the countryside—he’s soon returned to the present.

From the seat across from him, Kazuma waits in silence for him to fully awaken.

“Ah, forgive me,” Barok says, feeling an uncomfortable stiffness in his neck as he pushes himself up into a more respectable posture, “I must have fallen asleep.” He hadn’t realized how exhausted he was until now. Honestly, he’s amazed he’d even managed to get any rest at all within the cramped interior of the carriage compartment.

“I assumed as much.” Kazuma’s tone betrays no feelings of annoyance or impatience, but Barok can’t help but sense a degree of restlessness in the way that he’s poised, with his arms folded in front of him and his back straight.

“Is that so?” Barok stifles a yawn. “Well then, I do hope the trip hasn’t been too much of a bore in my absence.”

“Oh, terribly.”

“You poor thing.”

Kazuma huffs out a laugh, his body seeming to relax just a bit.

“Pleasant dreams?” he asks.

“What?”

“You were smiling in your sleep.”

“Oh, was I?” Barok’s voice trails off as the images flash within his mind once again: the intimate atmosphere, that warm embrace, every sweet kiss and gentle word of affection. Yes, “pleasant” is certainly an apt word for it.

“Well, in any case,” Kazuma says after a moment when Barok doesn’t speak up again, “as I was trying to say before, I believe we’ll be arriving shortly.”

With that, he gives a quick nod towards the window, and Barok turns to follow his gaze.

Not much farther down the road, a familiar residence comes into view. It’s an impressive sight, even at this distance, with its high walls and deep, dark colors that stand out conspicuously against the surrounding landscape. Just before the front entrance, a short stone stairway gives way to a well-maintained gravel path, framed on either side by a number of colorful flowering shrubs. Many years have passed since Barok had last set foot in this place, and yet it doesn’t appear to have changed a bit in all this time. It’s enough to leave him with a sense of yearning for those days long gone. Everything, from the large, elegant windows to the decorative trim along the roofline, is exactly as he remembers it.

As if time itself has long since come to a halt.

“Glad to be back?”

Kazuma’s voice pulls him from his reminiscences once more.

“Yes,” Barok says as he turns back to face him, the serenity within himself surely apparent upon his face, “I suppose I am.”

“It’s been a while since you were here last, hasn’t it? I believe that’s what you’d said before.”

“Quite a while, yes.”

“No desire to return? Or did you simply not have the time?”

“The latter.” Barok nods. “I hadn’t intended to stay away for so long, but unfortunately there had been little opportunity for me to make the trip out here.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Oh, it’s alright. Truthfully, it was largely my own fault for taking on so much work these past years.” And that much is certainly true, for he’s no stranger to the concept of overworking. Still, there’s a part of him that wonders if there might have been something more to this, something deep down that had left him almost afraid to come back here, afraid of the memories this place would stir up within him.

I’m here now, aren’t I?

“Well, regardless of the reason, I’m happy that you’ve finally gotten the chance to do so,” Kazuma says. Pausing only briefly, he reaches forward to take Barok’s hand in his own, his expression turning into a smile.

“And,” he resumes, his voice little more than a murmur, “if you still remember your time here…perhaps you wouldn’t mind showing me around? I’d hate to find myself lost in such a place while we’re trying to enjoy our honeymoon.”

Honeymoon. The word doesn’t sound real as it repeats in Barok’s mind.

Honeymoon. To think that the day would ever come…

“I’m sure you’ll have nothing to worry about,” he says with a blissful expression of his own, “but of course.”

He gives Kazuma’s hand an affectionate squeeze.

“It would be my pleasure.”

How grand, that a single night could mark the beginning of an eternity—of a lifetime of joy that he’d once believed could never come to be. Once, when his life was at its darkest, all those years ago. Before everything had changed.

Before Kazuma had come into his life.

“Would that we lived in more accepting times, that I might be allowed the honor of asking for your hand.”

The world all but fell to a standstill as Barok spoke those words that night in the garden, many moons ago.

“Would that we did not have to hide away from the rest of the world.”

Those simple, heartfelt words that lingered in the air, sweet as perfume.

Slowly, Kazuma turned his gaze to Barok…

And then, silence.

Several, impossibly long seconds passed. From somewhere deep in the pit of Barok’s stomach, he could feel a thousand butterflies take wing as he waited for any sort of acknowledgement. His heart pounded in his chest, his mouth went dry. For a moment, he was beginning to worry that Kazuma somehow hadn’t heard him. But, just as that apprehension was threatening to consume him, Kazuma finally seemed to find his voice.

“Is this,” Kazuma said with an expression on his face that could only be described as one of astonishment, “some sort of proposal?”

Barok’s face began to flush.

“If I’ve said something to upset you,” he spoke carefully, “then please, do forgive me for that.”

“Oh. No, you haven’t, not at all! That was just…a little unexpected, is all.”

As if to reassure him, Kazuma pressed a quick kiss to his cheek and nestled in closer. Barok wrapped his arms around him in return.

After a while, Kazuma spoke up again.

“I’ve never heard you speak of such matters before.”

“No…I suppose I haven’t, have I?”

Kazuma only looked up at him in response, an inquiring look upon his face as he waited for Barok to continue.

“I admit,” Barok began, “I have given consideration to the idea of marriage in the past—at least, in regards to societal expectations. I’d always assumed I would settle down some day, but…”

He exhaled a quiet sigh. “But, for a time, even that seemed to be nothing more than a flight of fancy.”

And why should he have thought otherwise? He wasn’t quite so foolish as to have believed that anyone would ever have wished to tie themself to a man such as he, surrounded by so much death and misfortune. No, he was fated to a life of solitude, and he’d had little choice but to make peace with that.

“Circumstances are different now, you needn’t think that way any longer.” There was a hint of sorrow in Kazuma’s voice, as if it pained him to even speak those words.

Barok’s eyes slipped shut. “You may be right.”

“Of course I am.”

At that, Barok couldn’t help but smile. If nothing else, he was glad for the reminder of how much his life had since changed for the better.

Another moment of calm. Not a sound, but the rustling of leaves as a gentle breeze drifted through the garden, carrying with it the fragrant, floral scent of nature. Above, the full moon had risen high in the sky, ever watchful as it bathed the lands below in its ethereal glow. It was a night of serene beauty, of indescribable magic and allure. Even the stars seemed alive, shining brighter than ever, as if each one were competing for his attention.

Instinctively, Barok tightened his arms around Kazuma.

Not a one of them could ever hold a candle to you, my dearest.

But, even then, there was just one thing that was still gnawing at the back of his mind. Carefully, he shifted his weight from one foot to the other as he considered how to proceed.

“Have you ever given thought to this before?” he eventually asked.

“To marriage? I can’t really say that I have,” Kazuma spoke slowly, seeming to consider each word. “With everything else that I’d been dealing with back then, I’d never had the time to. Romance just wasn’t much of a priority to me, I’m afraid.”

“...I see.” He really should have expected as much.

“But, don’t misunderstand. That doesn’t mean that I’m opposed to the idea now.”

Kazuma pulled back to meet Barok’s eyes, steadily and without hesitation.

“Well…? Is there anything you wish to ask me, Barok?”

This time, when Barok gave voice to the words so desperate to break free, he did so with confidence.

“With all my heart, there’s nothing I would like more than to have you by my side, until the end of my days,” he spoke softly, drawing out each word as if they were a prayer. “If you would have me, that is.”

He could barely get the next few syllables out as his breath caught in his throat, his pulse racing ever faster.

“Kazuma, will you…”

“I accept, with all my heart.”

That night could hardly have been called a wedding, not by far. There were no rings to exchange, no bells to announce their matrimony, no guests or witnesses of any kind to their union—a union they would have to keep hidden from the world around them. It certainly wasn’t the sort of “ceremony” that Barok had imagined for himself (if he’d ever even imagined it at all), but could he truly have wanted anything more than this? No unnecessary adornments, no interruptions. Just the two of them, alone together.

And a promise, sealed with a kiss.

By the time their impromptu ceremony was finished, midnight had already passed, but the night was far from over. There, hidden away among the camellias and peonies, they made love under the stars. Barok would never forget how enchanting Kazuma had looked in the pale moonlight, those alluring eyes of his gleaming with all the beauty and splendor of the cosmos. How the warmth of their embrace left a pleasant, tingling sensation on his skin as they shared in this intimate dance. Their coupling had been careful and unhurried, but still as intoxicating as ever. Gentle and passionate, their love the single most beautiful and vibrant bloom in the entire garden.

Oh, if only Barok could capture this night in a bottle, could keep it safe within him, preserved and untarnished by the ravages of time forevermore. Each and every second that passed, fleeting though they may have been, was pure poetry. Every movement and every touch spoke true of their heart’s desires, their fingertips the quill with which they inscribed verse after verse upon each other’s bodies, words that sank deep below the surface to find their way to the very core of their souls.

Did Kazuma feel it too, he wondered? The artistry, the magnetism? Could he hear the serenade?

If only we could stay here, in this perfect dream.

But even dreams were not eternal, no matter how he might have wished otherwise. Sooner or later, the night would come to an end, and the sun would rise over a brand new day, leaving all that had transpired far behind. Sooner or later, they would have to return to the world outside and face whatever challenges lay ahead. But, for just that one, ephemeral moment, right there in the comfort of each other’s arms, they had built their own private oasis—a paradise more true than any heaven that could be found on this earth.

The mansion is already empty when they head inside, the few servants employed there having been sent away so the two might have some privacy. Making good on his word, Barok offers to show Kazuma around, and it comes as no surprise that the home’s interior is just as familiar to him as the outside had been. He remembers running down the grand, central staircase as a child without a care in the world (and being scolded when he was caught doing so). He remembers hiding away in the library whenever he needed solitude, relaxing with his family by the fireplace on those cold, winter nights. In a way, it feels as if he’s walking through a memory, some faded picture of a life he’d once known—the canvas has grown weathered with age, the colors no longer as vivid, but the sentiments it evokes are still powerful enough to overwhelm him.

Sentiments of tranquility. An idyllic bliss.

Perfection.

Eventually, they make their way into the parlor, a spacious room that almost seems to glow as the sun’s rays filter in through the windows. A low mahogany tea table and several comfortable-looking couches stand at the center of the room, not far from the ornate fireplace, neatly arranged atop a striking blue and gold rug and looking completely untouched by the flow of time. Other miscellaneous furniture can be found throughout the rest of the room, along with a variety of artworks and decorative knick knacks. Looking a bit closer, Barok thinks he even recognizes a few of these pieces of interest: the finely carved mantel clock and silver candlesticks above the fireplace, the bright, multicolored porcelain vases, the framed portraits depicting a number of familiar faces.

Barok turns back to say something, but before he can even get a word out, Kazuma quickly steps forward, taking him by the arm and leading him off towards the center of the room. Curious, Barok allows himself to be pulled along, nor does he resist when Kazuma places his hands on his chest to gently push him down onto the couch before seating himself comfortably on his lap.

Kazuma reaches over to caress Barok’s face, and as Barok leans into that touch, he again can think of no better word for this moment than “perfection”.

Perfect, yes. But, even still…

“Is something wrong?” Kazuma’s voice carries a hint of concern.

“No, it’s nothing,” he says, hoping to brush the matter aside.

But Kazuma doesn’t appear to be convinced.

“I just…” Barok says after a while, with some hesitance, “I only wish that I could have done something better for the occasion. That I could have taken you somewhere more special than this.”

Kazuma frowns. “And just what gives you the impression that this place isn’t special?”

“…Oh?”

“This is the home you grew up in, is it not?” Kazuma goes on to explain. “I’d say that more than qualifies.”

He drapes his arms around Barok’s shoulders, gazing deeply into his eyes.

“You doubt yourself too much. I assure you, you have nothing to worry about. I’m glad that you brought me here, honestly. It makes me so happy to know that you’re willing to share this piece of your past with me.”

A small smile forms on his lips, and in that smile there isn’t even a trace of insincerity to be found.

“It makes me feel as if I truly belong here.”

Those words are enough to leave Barok’s heart fluttering in his chest. Even after all they’ve achieved together these past few years, hearing Kazuma speak to him so openly still manages to catch him off guard from time to time.

“But, regardless,” Kazuma continues shortly thereafter without skipping a beat, “you should know by now that I’m not the sort to get hung up on matters such as this”—his smile widens into a grin—“You could have taken me to some dingy, musty old shack in the woods, and I still would’ve been content.”

…Perhaps a little too openly.

“Charming.”

Kazuma lets out a sharp laugh. “Alright, maybe that’s a bit of an overstatement. But I’m sure you get my meaning.”

Barok huffs out an exasperated breath, but soon enough he’s smiling as well.

“Whatever am I to do with you?”

“Oh, I’ve got a few ideas…”

And with that, Kazuma closes the distance between them.

Those last, nagging concerns at the back of Barok’s mind disappear as they settle into a kiss. Like snow under the sun, they melt away, and in their place sprouts a newfound joy, a seedling of pure bliss that courses through his veins from the very center of his being. Now, there’s nothing standing between him and what truly matters: his lover, his husband. He devotes all of his attention to Kazuma, letting his hand come to rest on the small of his back as he kisses him, slowly and sweetly. Readily and affectionately, just as he has done many times before.

So many times, ever since that unexpected evening, alone together in the office.

At times such as this, Barok can’t help but wonder just how differently his life may have turned out had Kazuma not kissed him that night, so suddenly and so boldly. He can still recall how shocked he’d been when their lips met for the very first time. Of course, Barok hadn’t failed to recognize the feelings stirring within him for his dear apprentice back then—feelings of longing, as vast and boundless as the sky, that he’d dared not speak of, for he’d known deep down that they would never be returned.

Oh, how wrong he had been.

Even now, he can still scarcely believe that any of this is real. On those nights when sleep eludes him and he finds himself lying awake in bed, Kazuma slumbering peacefully beside him, there’s a part of him that can’t quite shake the feeling that these last few years have been nothing more than a beautiful dream.

If that is the truth, then pray, let me never wake again.

As the seconds pass, the two of them only grow more and more enthusiastic. Kazuma kisses him with greater force, tightening his embrace around him, and Barok easily reciprocates. With not another soul for miles around to witness them, there’s not an ounce of shame to their affections, every single movement carrying a degree of urgency. Every touch, every gasp and sigh as their breaths mingle together with every eager twist of their lips, they don’t hold back from, as if they fear that this moment is to be their last.

And considering all they’ve been through in their lives thus far, that may very well be the case.

Eventually, Kazuma breaks the kiss, but he doesn’t cease his attentions just yet as he immediately begins unbuttoning Barok’s shirt.

“Someone’s impatient,” Barok says with a quick, soft laugh. “We’ve only just arrived.”

“Can you blame me?” Kazuma says, brushing his fingertips over Barok’s now exposed chest. “With how busy we’ve been, and all the troubles we’ve had in planning this trip without drawing any suspicion, it feels like it’s been ages.”

He presses a kiss to Barok’s neck, earning a contented hum from him. Barok can hardly deny that he’s been looking forward to this as well: a nice, private getaway for just the two of them, away from solemn courtrooms and crowded city streets.

“So dramatic,” he says after a moment. “There will be plenty of time; we’ve got the next few weeks all to ourselves, after all.”

“Maybe so”—Kazuma’s hand glides lower, moving further and further down Barok’s chest and torso and swiftly unfastening the rest of the buttons along the way—“but that doesn’t mean we can’t get an early start.”

His hand finally comes to a stop in between Barok’s legs, and he makes quick work of undoing the buttons of his pants as well as he moves in closer to murmur in Barok’s ear, his voice tinged with lust.

“I don’t want to wait any longer.”

The tone of those words sends a pleasant shiver down Barok’s spine, like a chill wind on a summer’s day, and when he inevitably feels Kazuma’s hand brush against his skin as it slips beneath his undergarments, that sensation only intensifies. He exhales deeply, unconsciously fluttering his eyes closed. Kazuma seems pleased at this, and so he persists, lightly nibbling at Barok’s ear and wrapping his nimble fingers around his cock.

Several, long seconds pass as he lingers there, apparently waiting for some sort of response, whether good or bad. When Barok doesn’t reject his advances, he continues to press onward, slowly stroking him with his thumb.

Kazuma’s hands have always had a somewhat rough feel to them—callused from his years of dedication to sword training—but Barok has never minded. In fact, he actually finds it to be rather appealing, that coarse, yet nevertheless soothing friction against his skin. A low groan rumbles in his throat, his cock beginning to stir in interest under Kazuma’s skillful touch, and before long, he’s already half-hard.

“Kazuma…” he whispers, sounding surprisingly breathless for how little they’ve done so far. He really must’ve been aching for this more than he’d realized.

There’s no reply, at least not with words, but Barok’s gentle murmur of his name only seems to encourage Kazuma further. He gives Barok a gentle squeeze and a quick tug, sending a jolt of pleasure straight to his groin. Another gasp escapes past Barok’s lips, and he doesn’t even need to look at Kazuma just then to sense the smirk present upon his face as he repeats that motion. Then again. And again. And again, that enticing heat within him slowly building until he can no longer fully contain his desires.

Leaning forward, he wraps his arms around Kazuma’s waist, eliciting a short exclamation of surprise from him as Barok all but tosses him onto his back against the cushions. With all pretense of self-control now completely out the window, Barok doesn’t waste another second, smashing his mouth against Kazuma’s in a rough kiss.

And Kazuma reciprocates with just as much enthusiasm. He kisses him hungrily—desperately, hooking his leg around Barok’s hip as he clings to him tightly, like a vine on a trellis, incapable of growing without that support. Like a magnet, as if he exists for the sole purpose of holding onto him.

Just as I exist for you.

When they finally separate not too long after, it’s with a great deal of reluctance. Steadying his breathing once more, Barok returns his attention to their conversation from earlier.

“Very well,” he says in a hushed voice. “But not here.”

“You’re no fun.” Kazuma pouts, but ultimately acquiesces.

Pushing himself off of the couch, Barok quickly readjusts his clothing before offering a hand to Kazuma to help pull him to his feet, and with that, they make their way from the parlor without another word.

Just as they reach the central staircase, however…

“Wait.”

A sudden grip on Barok’s arm halts him in his tracks. Confused, he looks back to Kazuma.

“Is something the matter?” he asks.

“Not at all.” Kazuma shakes his head. “But…would you please wait here for just a moment? There’s something I need to take care of first.”

Barok raises an eyebrow at him, but does as asked and steps back from the staircase.

“I won’t be long,” Kazuma says with a playful gleam in his eyes, turning swiftly on his heel as he heads upstairs and out of sight.

And so Barok waits.

With nothing else to occupy his mind, his gaze begins to wander, taking in every detail of his surroundings. Unsurprisingly, the hallway is no less impressive than any other room within the mansion. From above, a stylish crystal chandelier hangs from the center of the high ceiling, reflecting specks of bright light off the well-polished marble flooring. At the center of the hall, meanwhile, the large staircase, with its deep burgundy runner trailing down the steps and its intricately designed balusters, leads to the upper floors, splitting off at the halfway point and heading towards the east and west wings of the mansion. Two sets of double doors can be found on either side of the bottom floor, as well, along with a variety of potted plants that fill the empty spaces, providing a degree of earthly simplicity to the otherwise imposing space.

The air goes still. In Kazuma’s absence, time seems to slow to a crawl, the seconds beginning to feel like minutes, the minutes like hours. Still, Barok waits, remaining there patiently at the base of the stairs. Of course, even that patience is not quite enough to dispel the lure of curiosity. He casts a quick glance towards the upper floor.

What on earth is he planning?

Looking back, he can’t deny that Kazuma has been behaving…rather odd, lately. Secretive, in a way, as if he’s been hiding something. Barok hadn’t paid it much mind at the time, assuming it to be nothing worth troubling himself over—and even now that’s probably still the case—but as he continues to wait for Kazuma to return from whatever it is that he’s doing, that sense of intrigue only grows more and more palpable.

Perhaps he ought to go up and check on him, just to make sure he hasn’t run into any sort of issues? But, no, Barok had agreed to stay behind, and that is precisely what he shall do. Surely, Kazuma will return to him soon enough.

And, lo and behold, not even a minute passes before the sound of approaching footsteps catches his attention.

Slowly, Barok turns around…

…and his gaze is immediately drawn to the rather conspicuous sight awaiting him—a sight he certainly hadn’t anticipated.

There, leaning against the railing at the top of the staircase, Kazuma looks down on him in silence, his body as calm and relaxed as an autumn leaf drifting along the surface of a tranquil pond.

Relaxed, and garbed in a most lovely white gown that Barok remembers all too well.

Just as on that first night, Barok is absolutely entranced, unable to avert his gaze for even a fraction of a second. The pale silk garment rests attractively on Kazuma’s form, revealing just enough skin beneath its sheer segments to tease the senses without giving away too much. It’s certainly quite an unconventional design, but despite this (or perhaps even because of this), the gown still manages to display a sense of refinement, and that element only seems to be enhanced by the confident way in which Kazuma carries himself. Yes, he is truly a sight to behold, standing amidst the elegant backdrop of the mansion—a dazzling jewel upon a gilded crown, beautiful and blinding in all his radiance.

“Apologies for the wait,” he says after a while, a seductive smile just barely discernible beneath the delicate veil covering his face. Leisurely, he pushes himself away from the railing and begins to descend the stairs, the skirts of the dress swaying with every step and subtle movement he makes.

Only then does Barok realize that he’s been staring.

“I must admit, this is quite the surprise,” he says once he’s able to find his voice again, still looking fixedly at Kazuma. “All this time, I’d been under the impression that you didn’t want to so much as look at that dress ever again.” Honestly, Barok hadn’t realized that he still even had that dress anymore.

“You’re right, I don’t,” Kazuma says almost nonchalantly. “But, seeing as this is a special occasion, I’m willing to make an exception, just this once.”

He finally comes to a stop at the landing halfway down the staircase, that smile upon his face turning into a smirk as his voice takes on an almost singsong tone.

“Besides, I know how much you like it.”

Barok clears his throat, feeling his cheeks heat up.

“I—”

“Don’t even try to deny it.”

Ordinarily, this is the sort of comment that would prompt some sort of retort from Barok, and yet, this time, he finds himself at a loss. He opens his mouth again to speak, only to awkwardly close it when he cannot seem to form even a single word.

If Kazuma takes notice of this, he doesn’t show it. Instead, he continues on the rest of the way down, and Barok instinctively steps forward to meet him at the base of the stairs. Feeling his heart skip a beat, Barok gently lifts the veil from Kazuma’s face.

“You’re beautiful,” is all he says.

This time, it’s Kazuma's face that turns red with embarrassment.

“Oh, stop it,” he mutters, averting his eyes, but the pleased expression on his face betrays his true feelings.

Barok plants a kiss to the top of Kazuma’s head. “I would not say it if I didn’t mean it.”

Moving aside, he gradually steps around Kazuma to stand behind him, placing his hands on his shoulders and pulling him closer until his back is pressed flush against Barok’s chest.

“You’re not wrong,” Barok goes on to say, gliding his hands down Kazuma’s arms before moving on to begin exploring the rest of his body, the delicate lace of the dress as soft as the petals of an orchid against his fingertips. “I do find you quite pleasing like this. Even back then, when my eyes had first fallen upon the gown that summer’s day…the thought of how much I’d like to see you in it had certainly crossed my mind.”

Kazuma exhales deeply, shivering against him at even the lightest of touches.

“I’m surprised to hear such an admission from you.”

“There have already been more than enough misunderstandings between us in the past, I do not wish to add onto that.”

“So you say.” Kazuma tilts his head back to rest it against Barok’s shoulder, letting out a soft, contemplative hum. “Well, words are cheap. I’m not so sure that I believe you just yet.”

“Is that so?”

“If you were to provide a further demonstration of your sincerity, however…”

A faint smile forms on Barok’s face as he gives Kazuma’s hip a squeeze.

“As you wish.”

In one swift movement, Barok returns his hands to Kazuma’s shoulders as he spins him around, guiding him backwards until his shoulders meet the nearby wall and pressing in closer.

Barok lingers there for several moments longer, their lips mere centimeters apart. This close, he can feel the warmth of Kazuma’s breath against his face, can practically taste the suspense in the air as anticipation continues to build between them, rapidly and without pause. Kazuma’s eyes slip shut, and again Barok feels him tremble against him, ever so slightly. Slowly but surely, Barok moves in closer still…

And when their lips do finally connect, the heat between them blazes hot enough to burn his senses to ash.

There had been a time once, not too long ago, when Barok would have been far more careful with his affections, more reserved. Even as he’d longed for it so—even as Kazuma’s own actions made it clear that he’d wanted him just as badly—Barok still wouldn’t push for more than the simplest of romantic gestures, the instinct to keep everyone around him at arm’s length a relentless chain around his heart. But that’s all behind him now; those shortcomings no longer deter him. He kisses Kazuma, fervently and with intent, in a desperate bid to make up for all the opportunities he’d wasted before.

All around, the entire world seems to fade into a blur, until nothing else but the two of them remains. Taking hold of Kazuma’s waist, Barok persists in his affections. He holds him tightly, kisses him deeper, feeling every ounce of his passion seep into each and every touch. Kazuma moans in response, eagerly pressing his body against him as he parts his lips to allow Barok’s tongue to slip inside.

Emboldened, Barok slides his hands down to grab a fistful of the gown’s fabric and inches it further up Kazuma’s leg before giving a single, swift tug, tearing the skirt all the way down the side.

“Be careful, would you?” Kazuma grumbles.

“Pray forgive me.” Barok kisses him once more, slipping his hand beneath the now ruined fabric to give Kazuma’s thigh a quick squeeze as he lifts his leg up against his hip.

But Kazuma doesn’t appear content to simply let the conversation end there as he continues to complain in between kisses.

“Now I’m going to have to get this fixed.”

“I will see that it’s mended once we return, I promise you.”

“It was annoying enough just to get this damned thing altered to begin with.” He wraps his arms around Barok’s neck. “Do you have any idea how much effort it had even taken to put this all together?”

“A fair amount, I’m sure.”

“And besides—”

“You know”—Barok pulls back for a brief moment—“if I didn’t know any better, I would almost begin to suspect that you actually enjoy wearing this more than you let on.”

“What nonsense,” Kazuma asserts, but Barok doesn’t fail to notice how his body seems to tense up and his face blushes a deeper shade of red in that instant.

“If you insist.”

“...Just shut up and keep going.”

And that is precisely what Barok does. Going in for one more quick kiss, he finally loosens his hold on Kazuma as he murmurs in his ear.

“Turn around.”

He steps back, and Kazuma complies without protest. Sweeping the veil aside, Barok eyes him from head to toe as he glides his finger over the line of buttons running down Kazuma’s spine. Through the thin fabric, he can easily make out the contours of the muscles in Kazuma’s arms and back, can feel the heat radiating from his body, and that alone is enough to spark the desire within him. Taking hold of the collar of the dress, he pulls on it (albeit a little more carefully this time) to quickly unfasten the buttons. A few of the buttons do still manage to pop off, however, falling to the floor with a soft clink.

A sigh can be heard from Kazuma’s lips as Barok slides his hands beneath the fabric, further exposing his neck and shoulders. He leans down to press a kiss in between his shoulder blades, little more than a light brush of his mouth against Kazuma’s skin, before moving on to trail further kisses up his back until his lips finally come to a stop at the crook of Kazuma’s neck.

“Barok…” Kazuma breathes, soft enough as to be almost inaudible, as he tilts his head to the side and braces his hands against the wall in anticipation.

No further invitation is needed. Moving his hands to rest on Kazuma’s hips, Barok kisses him again, harder this time. And again, this time letting his teeth lightly graze the surface of Kazuma’s skin. Another sigh passes Kazuma’s lips, slow and sounding pleased before quickly turning into a sharp inhale when Barok sinks his teeth into his neck a split second later.

Barok quickly falls into an easy rhythm as he continues to bite at him, gently at first, then gradually growing bolder and rougher as each act drags another quiet gasp from Kazuma’s throat. After all the time they’ve spent alone together, the two of them have come to understand each other very well. So well, in fact, that Barok is certain he knows Kazuma’s body almost as well as he knows his own by now: where he likes to be touched the most, the ways he’ll react to any given stimuli, how hard he can bite him without causing any genuine pain. And Barok takes full advantage of this now. He bites into Kazuma’s shoulder, gripping his hips tighter as he presses his groin against his backside.

“Barok…!” Kazuma calls out his name again, louder this time, and the longing in his voice is almost powerful enough to tempt Barok into taking him right then and there.

But despite how strong this feeling is, he manages to resist that urge, at least for the time being. Instead, he carries on at his current pace, letting himself be swept up by the ebb and flow of the moment. His body practically moves of its own accord as he kisses and bites at him eagerly, his hand sinking down lower to settle between Kazuma’s legs. And all the while, Kazuma responds to each new touch precisely as Barok had anticipated, moaning and gasping and writhing against him in a way that’s almost dizzying.

In due time, Barok’s movements slow down to a stop. Pulling back just enough to allow for a quick breather (but still close enough to feel the gentle trembles of Kazuma’s body), he inhales deeply, exhales slowly, waiting for his heart rate to return to normal.

Feeling a light nudge against him, he backs away further so that Kazuma can turn to face him once again. His face is still flushed as he looks up at Barok through half-lidded eyes, that look upon his face so full of wonder and devotion. Hard to believe that these are the same eyes that once could only look upon him with loathing.

Had we met earlier than we did, I may have even returned that look, Barok thinks to himself somberly. But, now is not the time to be dwelling upon the “what ifs.”

“Perhaps…” he murmurs after a while, brushing a strand of hair from Kazuma’s face, “it’s about time we took this to a more appropriate locale.”

And without another word, he sweeps Kazuma up into his arms and resumes on his way towards their previous destination.

The bedroom carries a warm sense of comfort as they head inside, the orange light of the setting sun illuminating the interior in its soothing glow. At the far side of the room, their belongings are arranged along the floor just as they’d left them before, with the exception of one suitcase now sitting open and in disarray from Kazuma’s earlier preparations. A few lit candles can be seen throughout the room as well, their flames giving the space a more intimate atmosphere.

Laying Kazuma down on the bed, reluctant to have to let go of him for even a second, Barok wastes no time in removing his still unbuttoned shirt and the remainder of his clothing. That now out of the way, he takes a quick look at his surroundings to locate the small, inconspicuous bottle on a nearby table, returning to Kazuma’s side with it in hand.

Kazuma’s already made himself comfortable on the bed, lounging against the soft downy pillows as casually as if today isn’t the first time he’s ever been in this room. He meets Barok’s gaze with a playful, teasing expression upon his face—a look Barok has seen countless times before, yet still a look that never fails to entice him so.

“Well…what are you waiting for?” his eyes seem to say as he raises a hand to beckon Barok closer.

And Barok is more than happy to oblige. He climbs onto the bed without delay, fitting himself in between Kazuma’s legs and wrapping his arms around his waist to pull him up onto his lap. Kazuma returns his embrace, adjusting himself into a better position as Barok retrieves the bottle and pops the top off to pour a decent amount of the oil onto his fingers.

A soft exhale of breath caresses the side of Barok’s neck as he pulls the dress aside, moving his hand down lower to find Kazuma’s entrance. Gently, he gives his backside a squeeze, waiting a moment for Kazuma’s body to begin to relax.

Then, and only then, does Barok slip the first finger inside. He takes his time in preparing him, proceeding slowly, but steadily to allow Kazuma enough time to become accustomed to the sensation. Carefully, to ensure he doesn’t hurt him inadvertently.

Kazuma rests in his arms peacefully, seeming almost as if he’s asleep as his chest gradually rises and falls, as if there’s no other place he’d rather be than right here. It’s these simple, sweet moments of pleasure that Barok enjoys the most. The closeness, the warmth—that most wondrous feeling in his heart, to cherish another and to be cherished in return.

To be loved.

Soon enough, he inserts a second digit and begins to pick up the pace just a bit. With each push, he presses in deeper and deeper, searching for that one sweet spot. When he manages to find it, he feels Kazuma shudder in response, letting out a delightful sound as Barok drags his fingers against Kazuma’s prostate. Holding onto him tighter with his free hand, Barok repeats this motion again, applying more pressure and eliciting a low, drawn-out moan from Kazuma in the process, a sound more lovely to Barok’s ears than any orchestra.

“Ah…hurry up already,” Kazuma whines.

“Always so impatient.”

“And you always take too long.”

Barok exhales a quiet laugh. By now, this back-and-forth of theirs has become something of a routine, given the number of times they’ve been through this same disagreement before. But he can’t really say he minds all that much; in fact, he finds Kazuma’s eager enthusiasm to be quite flattering.

In any case, Barok adds a third and final finger, and despite his usual insistence upon taking things slow, he does actually speed up just a bit as he finishes preparations.

Withdrawing his fingers at last, Barok reaches over for the bottle one last time, but as he’s about to remove the top, Kazuma stops him. He gently pries the bottle from Barok’s hand and nudges him to lie back on the mattress, to which Barok puts up no resistance, before pouring some of the liquid onto his own hand and moving to sit beside him.

A soft sound of contentment escapes from Barok’s throat as Kazuma wraps his fingers around Barok’s cock to coat it with the oil, stroking him to full hardness. Wave after wave of pleasure pulsates throughout his body as Kazuma proceeds, knowing all the ways to send his senses into a frenzy.

Yet, for all the pleasure that comes with that wonderful touch, it’s the sight of Kazuma himself that sets Barok’s heart racing in his chest.

In the candlelight, Kazuma looks even more radiant than ever, the dim glow upon his face enhancing his handsome features in such a way that Barok is left completely and utterly spellbound.

It doesn’t take long before Kazuma seems to catch notice of this, as his mouth curls into a satisfied smile and he gives him a light squeeze, but he doesn’t turn to meet Barok’s eyes just then. Rather, his gaze travels down the length of Barok’s body, that pleased expression never once leaving his face. With his free hand, he reaches over to trace the pale scar along Barok’s abdomen, seeming almost in a sort of trance as he does so.

“I like this one,” he says only a short moment later, leaning down to kiss the mark in question while simultaneously brushing his fingertips over the length of his cock. “It reminds me of the silver lining around a cloud.”

Barok exhales deeply at the sensation, and Kazuma moves along to press another kiss down to the scar beneath his collarbone.

“And I like this one, too; it’s at just the right height for me to kiss.”

“Kazuma…”

Barok has never been fond of his scars, and for good reason. Not only are they unpleasant to look upon, they also serve as a constant reminder of his miserable past, of the curse he’d once thought he’d never escape. Aside from the prominent and unavoidable one that mars his face, he’s always made a point of keeping these scars hidden from view at all times.

And yet…for some reason he can’t quite explain, he’s never felt this way around Kazuma, this need to hide. The way that he looks at him when they’re alone, so sweetly and with such fondness, manages to drive away any discomfiture he’s ever felt. It’s a remarkable talent of his, enough to make those ugly scars seem almost beautiful, like they’re something to be cherished rather than scoffed at.

Like Barok himself is someone deserving of such affection.

With one last gentle stroke of his hand, leaving behind a soft, tingling sensation on Barok’s skin, Kazuma straddles his hips once more, guiding Barok’s cock to his hole.

A low, satisfied hum falls from Barok’s lips when he feels that warmth envelop his cock as Kazuma slowly sinks down. He braces his hands against Barok’s shoulders, his entire body appearing to shudder as he gradually lowers himself further down, inch by tantalizing inch. But even that seems to be something of a struggle for him, judging from the way he bites his lip and furrows his brow, and Barok can’t help but worry that he hadn’t done nearly enough preparation before.

“Is everything alright?” he quickly asks, feeling the guilt rising within himself.

“Yeah…ah, I’m fine. Don’t worry about it.”

As if to prove his point, he pushes his hips down sharply, squeezing his eyes shut and letting out a whine as he does so.

Stubborn as ever, Barok thinks to himself. Nevertheless, he moves to readjust his position just a bit in the hopes of making this a little easier for Kazuma, and that does seem to help as Kazuma finally manages to seat himself all the way down with a sigh.

Neither of them makes any further moves just yet, holding that position for a moment longer. Barok slips his hands beneath the hem of the dress to rest on Kazuma’s thighs, content for the time being to simply delight in the feeling of their bodies so close to each other, as warm and inviting as the comforts of home. Stroking his thigh in a slow, circular motion, he feels Kazuma’s trembling begin to lessen as his body gradually adjusts. And Kazuma looks down at him with a teasing smile upon his face, arching his back just a bit and languidly rolling his hips.

Before he can stop himself, Barok instinctively jerks his hips upward, drawing out a short, surprised cry from Kazuma’s lips.

“Hah…and you call me the impatient one,” Kazuma says with a shaky laugh.

Barok can say nothing in response, his face burning fiercely.

“Well, in that case,” Kazuma continues all the same, “I guess there’s no reason for further delay, is there?”

And so, they at last begin to move in earnest. Kazuma rolls and grinds his hips down, gradually easing into an even pace as he rides him. Despite his apparent eagerness from only a moment ago, this time he moves in a much more relaxed manner, every single motion careful and deliberate. Barok matches his momentum with ease, gently thrusting his hips upward and into that tight heat, the friction of their bodies against each other no less than heavenly.

For all his self-control, Barok still finds himself struggling to resist the temptation to proceed too hastily, the sensations almost too much for him. Every brush of the soft fabric against his body, that pleasant grip around his cock as Kazuma squeezes him so perfectly, even the subtlest of movements is all it takes to excite Barok’s nerves, those wondrous sparks of euphoria spreading all throughout his body and igniting him from within. No matter how many times they’ve been together, it always feels like the very first time—the intensity, the desire, every touch and every lovely sound from Kazuma’s lips as thrilling as if it’s something entirely new. And perhaps that sentiment is not even an exaggeration, for each day that passes is another day for Barok to discover something new to cherish, another reason to fall in love with Kazuma all over again.

You will always be positively breathtaking to me, even if decades should pass and we grow old and gray.

But any speculation on their future together would have to wait for another time, for now it is only the present moment that matters. This beautiful night and all its many delights.

The pleasure within him only continues to grow with each passing second—sprouting as a seed deep in the center of his being and blooming into a bright, stunning summer rose—and in the haze of that bliss, Barok can’t even remember a time he’s ever wanted anything as much as he wants Kazuma right now. Again, his willpower begins to waver. Testing the waters, he grips Kazuma’s thighs before snapping his hips forward a bit sharper than before, letting out a sigh as another wave of pleasure flows through him.

“Ah…!” Kazuma gasps and clings to him tighter, sounding surprised but not at all disinterested.

Needing no further assent, Barok repeats this action, pulling Kazuma down against him as he pushes deeper inside of him, earning another whimper from his lover, quiet and subdued yet still alluring in its simplicity. He does this again, and again, savoring the way that Kazuma squirms with each thrust.

As he’s about to make another move, however, Kazuma stops him, gently pressing a finger to Barok’s lips, another playful smile appearing on his face.

“Now now, can’t just let you have all the fun, can I?

Returning his hands to Barok’s shoulders, he grasps him tightly to maintain his balance as he begins to carefully lift himself up.

Barok can only watch him in silence, mesmerized by his very presence, but a low moan is soon dragged from his throat as Kazuma slams his hips back down again without warning, sending a pleasant shudder rippling through his body. This is apparently the reaction Kazuma had been hoping for, as the smug grin on his face only seems to widen. Holding onto him once more, Kazuma pushes himself up a second time, slowly but surely, until only the tip of Barok’s cock remains inside of him.

But, unlike before, he seems to be in no rush to continue just yet. He maintains this position for several moments longer, merely smiling down at Barok as he moves his body ever so slightly, just enough to tease Barok without offering any sort of genuine relief.

Several more seconds pass, the anticipation continues to build, gradually and without stopping, until Barok can take it no longer.

Sliding his hands further up, he grabs hold of Kazuma’s waist and, digging his fingernails into his sides, drags him back all the way down onto his cock, the heat of that friction almost enough to send him over the edge.

Kazuma cries out at the sudden act, immediately clenching down harder and beginning to tremble so fiercely he looks as if his strength might give out at any moment. He parts his lips to exhale a deep, shaky breath as he gazes into Barok’s eyes, looking as awestruck as one might when beholding the stars for the very first time. And how peculiar that is, for Barok is certain he can feel that same light glimmering within his own heart as well.

Eventually, Kazuma begins to calm down once more and a smile returns to his flushed face, so lovely and just begging to be kissed.

Without giving it a second thought, Barok swiftly pushes himself up off of his back to pull Kazuma into a deep kiss, holding him close. Kazuma returns his affections effortlessly, wrapping his arms and legs around him and kissing him with just as much care.

Melting into that embrace, they begin to pick up where they’d left off only a moment ago. Barok moves gently at first, slowly rocking his hips as he presses into Kazuma, before gradually building up momentum, and Kazuma quickly follows his lead. Soon enough, their movements grow vigorous, frantic, the two of them exerting as much force as they can manage in this position. Faster and harder, chasing after every wonderful touch with a single-minded determination.

Breaking the kiss, Barok takes a second to catch his breath as he buries his face against the side of Kazuma’s neck. The scent of Kazuma’s skin fills his senses, comforting and familiar and sending a tremor of pleasure through his body, and he gives another sharp thrust, aiming for that sweet spot. A whine escapes from Kazuma’s lips, low and dripping with lust, and so Barok grinds his hips upwards again in a rougher manner, hearing Kazuma’s cries only grow louder and more impassioned with each thrust.

“Barok! Please, I need…” Kazuma moans, the words sounding almost sinful as they fall from his tongue.

“I know,” Barok murmurs against his neck, “I feel it, too.”

Kazuma puts up no resistance as Barok carefully picks him up off of his lap, laying him down onto his back against the mattress before climbing on top of him and, without a second of delay, pushing into him once more.

And so it is that passion consumes them. Closing his eyes, Barok is swept away by the sensations coursing through him: the sweet warmth of their bodies tangled up together, the soft lace brushing against his chest as he presses in closer, every feeling of longing deep within him, clouding his mind and drowning out all other thoughts. It’s too much, leaving him fearful that he might pass out at any second just from the sheer force of it all. And from the look of it, Kazuma seems to be just as overwhelmed as he twists and writhes beneath him, gasping out Barok’s name again and again.

It’s too much, yet still Barok holds out for as long as he can, clinging to every last second of this perfect moment and holding it all near to his heart. He doesn’t want it to end—he never does, not even when his body feels like it will give out from the exhilaration.

But no matter how strongly he might wish for eternity, he can never escape the inevitable.

Groaning deep within his throat, he snaps his hips forward again. Then again. And again, feeling the strength in his body slowly begin to fade as he’s pushed closer and closer towards the edge. Kazuma sighs deeply, reaching up to place a hand on Barok’s cheek, ever so delicately.

“Kazuma…” Barok takes Kazuma’s hand in his own, leaning into that touch and turning to press a kiss to his wrist.

It won’t be much longer now. Their fingers intertwine effortlessly, weaving together like the delicate threads within a beautiful tapestry, and as Barok gently pins Kazuma’s arm against the mattress, he gives one final push, sheathing himself all the way to the hilt as he reaches his climax at last.

Barok feels his head spin as his orgasm rushes through him, powerful enough to numb the aching in his body, even if only for a brief moment. Trembling under the weight of this ecstasy, he attempts to steady his breathing as he waits for the sensation to run its course, intense and all-encompassing, until all that remains is a feeling of peaceful satisfaction.

In due time, those feelings begin to diminish as Barok’s heart rate returns to normal, but this moment of intimacy is hardly over just yet. Carefully, he pushes himself up off of Kazuma, feeling him shiver as he pulls out, and swiftly moves to brush the fabric of the dress aside, revealing Kazuma’s still erect cock, flushed from arousal and desperate for release. Barok closes his eyes and leans down to take Kazuma’s cock into his mouth, hearing his lover moan and gasp with each flick of his tongue before crying out one final time as he comes.

The room falls to a hush as Barok settles back to lie down beside Kazuma, the afterglow of their lovemaking shining brightly within him. Kazuma turns onto his side, snuggling closer and letting out a contented hum.

“That was perfect,” he says, his voice sounding rough from overexertion. “You always are.”

Barok can only smile, too blissed out still to even move just yet.

“As are you, my dear. As are you.”

And thus does the curtain fall upon this night, the play reaching its final act, but that does not mean it will be their last. Many and more such nights shall come to pass, the sun will always return on the morrow, and so too will this wonder and rapture fill their hearts once more. After all, they have the rest of their lives to share in these moments together.

Till death do us part.

…

“Kazuma.”

“Hm?”

“Are you…happy?”

A cheerful laugh.

“After that? Why wouldn’t I be?”

“No, that’s not—”

He sighs.

“What I mean is, are you happy…”

…with me?

“You’re asking me this now?”

“Please.”

The sheets rustle as Kazuma turns onto his side to face him.

“Yes, I am. Happier than I’d ever imagined anyone even could be.”

His gaze never falters as he speaks, dark eyes shining with a heartfelt intensity.

“I know what must be running through that head of yours right now, and you are so very mistaken,” he goes on to say. “If you are to believe anything I have to say, then let it be this: I don’t have any regrets, not a single one, and that will never change. More than anything in this world, I want to be with you. I want you.”

He moves in closer to press a kiss to the top of Barok’s head.

“The man you used to be…”

Another kiss to his cheek.

“The man you are now…”

One final kiss to his lips.

“And the man you will be tomorrow.” He smiles, sweetly and without pretense. “Past, present, and future. I want all of you.”

Those words bring a pleasant, soothing warmth to Barok’s chest, chasing away the storm clouds that had been darkening his mind.

And in that instant—that one blessed moment—he feels his heart beat anew, stronger than ever before.

Speechless, he wraps his arms around Kazuma, tucking his lover’s head beneath his chin. Kazuma returns his embrace with just as much affection.

“...Barok?”

“Yes?”

“Are you happy?”

“Without a single doubt,” he says with conviction, not needing even a single second to consider his answer. “I could pen many thousands of words in testament to the joy I feel in my heart every day that you are here by my side, and still it would be nowhere near enough to convey the full extent of just how much these past few years have meant to me.”

He breathes easily, the words falling from his tongue as surely as rain from the heavens.

“I love you.”

He feels Kazuma’s arms tighten around him, pulling him closer still.

“I love you, too.”